Cost of Living – the60life

8 Top Things to Do to Save on Motoring Costs

Even in these times of rising petrol prices,and often through slowness to act or not recognising an issue, many of us do not regularly review the recurring and the hidden costs in our household spending that could be substantially reduced. A significant part of that expenditure is on motoring which, according to the Bureau of Labor statistics show that in the US nearly 50% of household bills are for housing (33%)and transportation(17%) .

According to recent figures from the Office of National Statistics in the UK 65-to-74-year-old households spent nearly a fifth (18%) of total spending on recreation and culture, making this the top expenditure category for this age group.A significant portion of this spend is on motoring costs. Continue reading “8 Top Things to Do to Save on Motoring Costs”

Have you voted for government to keep its hands-off your pensioner benefits?

The Conservative party has pledged to consign the possible granting of state pension increases so small as to be meaningless ,to the political dustbin by confirming the retention of the ‘triple lock’ guarantee for state pension increases post-2015 ,if re-elected. No sooner had this political football been punctured than murmurings were to be heard from other political quarters threatening to remove the following pensioners’ non-means tested benefits :

– free tv licence fee for the over-75s

-winter fuel allowances

-bus passes

-free prescriptions and eye tests

It is true that there are some wealthy pensioners in the UK who could well fund these benefits for themselves. According to the Hands Off ! campaign, however,the high figures for usage point to a clear need for these benefits to be retained.It also says that the high level of unclaimed means tested benefits, for over 65s, clearly shows that means testing does not work.

“We have,for the first time,placed a value on the economic and social contribution that older people make to our society. In 2010,over 65s made an astonishing net contribution of £40 billion to the UK economy through,amongst other contributions,taxes, spending power,…” Lynne Berry, WRVS

Hands Off! also says,the recent period of austerity is seen as having hit hard the older as well as the younger generations in the nation.The risk of poverty in older people is said to be higher than for most other EU countries.

There have been a number of recent changes affecting pensioner benefits:

-the date for women’s pension retirement age brought forward

-state pensions linked to the lower measure of inflation (CPI)

-raised qualifying age for Winter fuel payments

-the freezing of personal allowances for over 4 million pensioners, expected to save the government £1bn by 2015.

“There are over 10 million people aged 65+ living in the UK. Two out of three believe that politicians see older people as a low priority. The ‘Hands Off’ campaign plans to change that.” Hands Off!”

An e-petition entitled ‘Hands off universal pensioner benefits’ has been created in order to influence government and parliament in the UK.

Sign-up today! The opportunity to do so ends 10th May 2014

UK Gas and Electricity Price Increases: Which is Best Fixed or Variable Rates?

Now that British Gas has announced that it will be increasing energy price with effect from 16th November by an eye watering 6% on average, what are we to do? Just take it as inevitable? Not according to Martin Lewis, the Money Saving Expert.He is emphatic that something can still be done to protect ourselves from this enormous price hike.Appearing on the consumer ‘slot ‘on the ITV programme ‘This Morning’, he was advocating viewers agree with their provider to a fixed rate,locking-into a current price that will apply beyond the current spate of energy company price increases.The time to do this though,was now.Soon it will be too late as the current offers by some providers will be soon withdrawn from the market.The deals are not as good as they were a few weeks ago, but some savings are there to be made by acting now.

He also had a word for people who had a supply metered – this will always be the most expensive way to pay for energy.He also recommended looking at a number of providers’ tariffs on independent comparison websites, but he said it might not be wise simply to go to a single energy supplier for advice on the best rate to pay.

It seems that in the UK, consumers are faced with annual increase in prices for many years to come,of a similar size to those being currently announced. To read more of what Martin Lewis said…

5 easy ways to save on your annual motoring costs

Here’s something we can all do today.Here and now.Cut down on our motor fuel costs by driving more efficiently. The Energy Saving Trust has calculated that the average driver in the UK today can be better-off by adopting some easy changes in driving technique and care of the car.

We all have some aspect of our driving that we can improve, even after many years of holding a driving licence. The following are five easy ways we can save a significant amount of money, possibly as much as 270 pounds sterling per annum.There is no expense involved, just a little attention to what we do. Here goes, in no articular order of importance:

Drive more smoothly – Avoid sudden acceleration and heavy braking ( unless in an emergency). Given the conditions on the road and the density of the traffic, the keeping of the proper distance between you and the car in front can be maintained by easing-off the accelerator in good time, rather than frequent braking abruptly keep your distance.
Slow down – getting to your destination sooner does not always save you money.
Switch-it off – When it is appropriate and safe to do so switch-off your engine instead of allowing your engine to idle while stationary.With the weather becoming colder, it is unnecessary to warm-up your car before you set off on your journey. Modern cars don’t need to be warmed-up from cold.
Switch to a higher gear as soon as you can – when it is safe and appropriate moved into a higher gear as soon as possible
Close your car windows – the aerodynamics of a car are greatly changed if the windows (s) are open causing in inefficient ‘drag’ particularly at speeds of 60 mph or more.Also if using air conditioning, itself a high user of energy,it will be inefficient for the heat or coolth is allowed to merely ‘fly’ out of the windows.

Other things to watch are : keep weight down as much as possible by not carrying unnecessary items; make sure your tyres are regularly checked and pressures kept at the right level; and only use a car rack when one is needed.

For further information, you can go to The Energy Saving Trust website ,giving you more details of the above,and also other ways of saving energy,including in the home.

An estimated 4.4m UK pensioners are to lose tax allowances

The Chancellor of the Exchequer yesterday announced sweeping changes to the personal tax allowances given to pensioners over the age of 65.

This has caused great uproar in the media and across the UK that a benefit first introduced in the 1920s by Winston Churchill is to be frozen then phased out altogether. The change in age-related personal allowances – the amount of income that is tax-free – will save the government £1bn by 2015.

The BBC reports:

“To Chancellor George Osborne it is a simplification in a complex tax system. To its critics, it is a “granny tax”. But what exactly does the most controversial measure in Wednesday’s Budget mean for you?”

You can see for yourself how this may affect you personally here at the BBC website

The Chancellor is saying that no one will actually lose cash because of the changes. But many see that the changes will leave pensioners’ future incomes exposed to more tax in the coming years.Also it is argued the retirement tax planning of people not yet of retirement age will be affected.

So what’s being done about soaring home energy costs in the UK?

A key part of our well being is to be able to afford the necessities of life, including energy to heat our homes. This is to state the obvious but as we begin again to look forward to the ever shortening days of sunlight and colder weather a key question is non the less : what is being done to curb the ever rising cost of gas and electricity in the UK? – up twice as much on average over five years ago, according to TV news coverage this morning.

According to an exclusive report on the moneysavingexpert.com website: “Politicians, consumer groups, the regulator and suppliers will attend a crunch energy summit to tackle soaring gas and electricity costs on Monday afternoon. Prime Minister David Cameron (pictured, right) and Energy Secretary Chris Huhne, who are both attending, write exclusively for MoneySavingExpert.com below outlining their plans…”

Well let’s hope that some positive action comes out of thes discussions. One of the key points seems to be to make it easier for the consumer to compare the tariffs of the top energy suppliers. By making their bills easier to understand and a clear comparison to be made, these companies will enable each and every one of us to more easily ‘shop around’ for the most appropriate deals.

UK government to make no concessions when axe on reduced bus fares for over 60s falls

All around the UK there is the buzz of concern and outrage at the recent announcement that the over 60s are to lose the concessionary rate bus fares which enable so many, who would otherwise find the cost prohibitive,to travel on journeys from within the UK .

You can read one full report here – threat to resort after concessions face axe

This is just one of many seaside resorts and visitor attractions expecting to be seriously affected by the withdrawal of the funding provided to bus operators to enable them to offer concessionary fares. The operators are faced with closing routes if they become unprofitable. It has been suggested that they should introduce schemes similar to the Rail Card currently available to the over 60s.

Tip: If you know you want to travel you can beat the deadline for the end of the specially reduced rates by planning and booking now. Tickets bought in this way will be honoured after the deadline.

Inability to pay the household bills – fear of the over-50s

Just when you reach that time of life, as a person in the UK over the age of 50,you may find that instead of being able to look forward to a gentle ease into retirement looking to your own self needs and relaxation,you are facing the anxiety of having no other course but to sell your home to make ends meet. According to a SAGA report published recently, this frightening prospect is likely to be a reality for millions of over-50s. Inflation and the rock bottom savings interest rates are heavily to blame.

SAGA believe that one in five worry that they will be forced to ‘downsize’ by selling a family home to ensure enough cash is generated to pay soaring household bills. Furthermore, many over-50s are faced with trying to support their grown-up children, and their children, for example with help to pay mortgages, university fees,contribute towards their children’s family holidays, and often basic weekly food bills. Non-essential expenditure is being reduced. Grandparents, it is said, are ‘going without’ because of mounting pressure in these difficult economic times ‘ to support the younger generation.’

The UK Budget: So how was it for you?

The Chancellor, George Osborne, announced in his budget speech last Wednesday that the main personal tax allowance will go up to £8,105 from April 2012 .

The SAVVY Woman website notes : ‘This change follows the announcement in the emergency Budget in June last year that the personal allowance would rise by £1,000 to £7,475 from April 6th this year. While the main allowances are rising by more than inflation, the age-related allowances are not. If you’re aged 65-74, your personal allowance is currently £9,490, which will rise to £9,940 in April 2011. If you’re aged 75+ your personal allowance is £9,640, which will rise to £10,090 in April 11.’

The government has said it will consult on the options for merging tax and National Insurance. However, it’s not likely to be something that will be achieved quickly.

SavvyWoman.co.uk also reports that : “The Chancellor said that pensioners will not lose out in that they will not have to pay National Insurance beyond state pension age or on income such as savings, pension and dividend. However, as the state pension age is due to rise it does mean that people who work will pay National Insurance for longer. I’m often asked if you can stop paying NI once you’ve paid enough to qualify for a full basic state pension. The answer, sadly, is ‘no’.”

You can read the full report on Budget matters that maybe relevant to you at savvywoman.co.uk

Do you suffer from this frustrating problem?

– Do you suffer from this frustrating problem?
· – 20 Ways to make your Christmas easier
· – Try these amazing seasonal recipes for eating and drinking

Hi,

With clear evidence of Winter outside and Christmas not far away, this week we turn our thoughts to keeping warm and well fed, and preparing for the festive season. Also, we take a quick look at a frustrating problem many writers suffer, and we are introduced to a vast free source of material that can help us with ideas and content for our writing, whether fictional or non-fictional.

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Do you suffer this frustrating problem?
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Debra at publicdomaintreasurehunters.com asks these questions?

‘Are you an idea junkie? Do you have a notebook filled with great ideas? It’s a problem I fight every day.
‘Why is it a problem? It is because great ideas can lead to overwhelm.’

Many of us writing every day have too many ideas and often don’t know where to begin with a writing project. This effects many successful people, and Debra says,

‘Sometimes You Have To Put Things On Hold Even If They Are Good Ideas.’

To catch more on this issue, and to take some inspiration and comfort (and also a sneak peak into the world of the Public Domain), check-out more from Debra at Sometime you have to put things on hold

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20 Ways to make your Christmas easier

Good to Know have got 20 quick tips on how to make cooking for Christmas simple and stress-free, from cheat’s tricks to time-saving tips for classic Christmas recipes. So more time to sip sherry and open presents!

Go to the Good to Know site at

20 Way to make Christmas easier

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Try These Amazing Seasonal Recipes for Eating and Drinking
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Seasonal recipes for winter Eating and drinking hot seasonal food and drink can help to keep you healthy over winter. Most winter fruit and vegetables contain the nutrients you need for the season, and there are lots of great recipes to choose from. Guardian Lifestyle ,a href=”http://www.guardian.co.uk/lifeandstyle/food-and-drink”>Guardian Lifestyle

has some wonderful winter recipes from across the country. Good to know at Good to know-Winter recipes
has a wide choice of dishes from casseroles to delicious desserts. The ever-popular River Cottage is another good option. Go to : 20 Way to make your Christmas easier

And if you need a new cooker, slow cooker or microwave. Or intend to buy kitchen electricals as Christmas presents? Look out for the Energy Saving Trust Recommended logo to save money on running costs.

Energy Saving Trust

As the first Christmas cards drop through the letterbox, I am reminded that perhaps it’s time I drew-up my list and addresses, and wrote my cards.

Do stay tuned-in! Above all stay warm!
Remember you can pick-up more tips and news at the60life.com

I do hope you will join me again next week for more build-up to the festive season. There will be more about the Public Domain, and opportunities it can provide to pick-up free ideas and content for use in your writing, whether fictional or non-fictional. Also here, and at the60life.com, I will also be taking you back to 1891 and give you a little insight into North American life at that time.

Yours,

Mike Paterson,
The 60Life Weekly

[email protected]

Learn how to grab your ‘free lunch’

Learn how to grab your ‘ free lunch’
· How you can slash your UK phone bills and maybe save £100s

In a week when students in the UK took to the streets to protest about the proposed level of university tuition fees to be repaid by graduates, I looked to see if there are still any ‘free lunches’ to be had for the more mature seekers of learning…

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Why you can still lunch out for free and learn
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The old saying: there is no such thing as a free lunch, is tested a little this week.

My recent internet searches have confirmed there is a vast source of free learning to be had out there on almost every subject under the sun. Ever fancied learning another language, perhaps Chinese or Japanese? Perhaps you would like to strengthen your computer skills, or undertake an accredited course leading to a qualification in your chosen subject. All this is open to you.

For computer tutorials you can go to http://www.homeandlearn.co.uk ; and for some popular oriental languages online you should check-out: http://www.freejapaneselessons.com and http://www.chinese-tools.com .

You can also find some useful product links at http://www.click-in.co.uk

Yours magazine suggests obtaining the contact details for your local university at Citizen’s Advice Bureaux or through the UCAS website at http://www.ucas.ac.uk. and reports : ‘During term time, many universities hold lectures that are free to the public. They can cover anything from physiology to art history and you needn’t have a an in-depth knowledge of the subject.’

My final suggestion this week is:
Study for free with The Open University. The giddylimits.co.uk website explains:

‘The Open University (OU) is the only UK university to give free access to its educational resources through a publicly accessible website. OpenLearn – www.open.ac.uk/openlearn – provides access to hundreds of OU courses through a virtual learning environment that supports independent learners. Part of the OU’s mission to open access to education for all, OpenLearn provides free learning to anyone, anywhere in the world.

‘The website launched in October 2006 with 900 learning hours of materials. With new study units added every month, the LearningSpace area of the website now offers more than 3,700 hours of learning content. Taken from existing OU courses, study units range across 11 topics, from access to postgraduate level. Popular topics include Health and LifeStyle, Languages, Science and Nature and IT and Computing.’

You can check-out the full report at

giddylimits.co.uk

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How you can slash your UK phone bills and maybe save £100s
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According to the website, moneysavingexpert.com:
‘It’s possible to slash line rental down to £8/mth with free evening & weekend calls, daytimes for 5p/CALL and half price to mobiles, maybe saving £100s a year.

‘If you’re with BT, Virgin or TalkTalk’, moneysavingexpert.com says,’ you’re paying too much. No one phone provider is cheapest, so this straightforward guide shows you how to quickly ensure EVERY call you make’s at the lowest possible rate.’

For more information on how to save money on phone bills you should go to moneysavingexpert.com

Do stay tuned-in!
Remember you can pick-up tips and news at http://the60life.co.uk.

I do hope you will join me again next week.

[email protected]

Why it is even more important now to shop around for the best value on savings accounts, fuel deals and insurance

Hi,

This week, my broadcast to you is shorter than usual, but is no less important for that fact.
Good and reliable information can help us to manage our daily affairs better. So, when I saw the following topic discussed across the news last weekend, I felt it so important that I share it with you in case you missed it…

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Why it is even more important now to shop around for value on savings accounts, fuel deals and insurance

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In order to raise awareness, Age UK Enterprises, the commercial services arm of Age UK, has just published what it calls the ‘Silver RPI,’ which is a measure of how inflation affects people as they get older, and is to be issued quarterly.

This new index clearly indicates’ that people over 55 are being hit by much higher living costs’, says The Mail On Sunday. While the Bank of England’s latest headline inflation report was at 4.6 per cent in September, The Mail goes on to report:
‘According to the Silver RPI, the gap between real and headline inflation for the average 65 year-old, for example, is 3.3 per cent, or £710 a year. For those over 75 it is 4.1 per cent, or £440 a year.’

You can also check out a full Guardian report at inflation-highter-over-55s

Over the next few months, we’ll be looking at guidance from the internet on prices, and value, for those critical areas of cost where the lowering of spending is essential. Do stay tuned-in!
Remember you can pick-up tips and news at the60life.com

I do hope you will join me next week.

Yours,

Mike Paterson,
The 60Life Weekly

[email protected]

If you have missed earlier issues of The60Life Weekly – these can be found by scrolling down the categories in the right hand column at http://www.the60life.com.

7 Tips to help keep you well this winter

11th November 2010

· 7 Tips to help keep you well this winter
· How to become a well paid writer with five minute writing
· Will you be ready when your energy bills hit the doormat early next year?

Hi,

How are we to face the shorter days of winter, the awful weather, and the inevitable colds and sniffles? A recent Daily Mail report looks at practical ways to help us stay well this winter.

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7 practical ways to help keep you well this winter
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· Your mother knew best how to keep the common cold at bay

· Beat the bug

· Don’t feel SAD. As the nights draw in, a fifth of us have the winter blues …advice from the SAD Association

· What you need to know about the flu jab

· Use a range of herbal remedies and plants as the best defence to colds

· Boost your immune system with the 10 foods that are so beneficial to your health they are known as ‘super foods’.

· Have a very healthy Christmas

Will you be ready to receive your New Year energy bills?

Winter draws on! It’s the big switch on:lights,fires,heaters, and electric blankets. Now is the time to benefit from a little forward planning in this burn-now-pay-later season.

According to The Money Saving Expert:

“Many people on standard tariffs can currently save over £300 a year by switching to the cheapest online deals, plus get up to £30 cashback or a crate of wine for doing it.

And it’s no big deal: only price and customer service change; you get the same gas, electricity, pipes, meter & safety.”

He says: “Switch NOW! Energy price HIKES are back – save £300…”

and further reports that…”Scottish & Southern Energy (S&SE) has announced it’s hiking gas prices an average 9.4% on 1 Dec. Industry insiders now predict the other big six will follow soon, probably in the next few weeks if not by January at the latest…” Check the details out it at moneysavingexpert.com

Where to find advice worth far more than £1000 for nothing

The60LifeWeekly

2nd September 2010

· How to boost your energy levels naturally
· Discover 10 Top Tips for short story writing
· Where to find advice worth far more than £1000 for nothing

Hi,

This week, where I live, many parents and grandparents are seeing their kids into full time school for the very first time. We have one of our own, a grandson…but let’s get on with the topics for the week: a look at short story writing; keeping those energy levels up; and easy ways to save some cash…

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Discover 10 Top Tips for short story writing
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Short Stories: 10 Tips for Creative Writers (Kennedy and Jerz)
What is a Short Story?
‘A short story begins as close to the conclusion as possible, and grabs the reader from the very first line. It conserves character and scenes, typically focuses on just one problem, and drives towards a sudden, unexpected revelation.’ (Kathy Kennedy and Dennis G. Jerz)

1. Get Started: Emergency Tips
2. Write a Catchy First Paragraph
3. Develop Your Characters
4. Choose a Point of View
5. Write Meaningful Dialogue
6. Use Setting and Context
7. Set up the Plot
8. Create Conflict and Tension
9. Build to a Crisis or a Climax
10. Deliver a Resolution
These tips are expanded in a report at http://jerz.setonhill.edu/writing/creative/shortstory/

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When improving your fitness by stretching need not over stretch your pocket
If you have been trying for years to overcome painful back and joints and have been doing the wrong back and joint strengthening exercises then you need to try the exercises in this ebook.
Pilates is not just for movie stars who want to keep their firm and toned figures.
Pilates is for people at every age who want to look and feel their best!
You are about to learn the exercises that the author has been experimenting and testing on her own clients for over 10 years.
These back and joint exercises have been found to be most beneficial in relieving back and joint pain from activities of daily living, or even from degenerative conditions in the spine and from arthritis.
The new revised edition offers you 30 more detailed pictures and modifications on the Classic Exercises along with Pilates Principles and Standing Posture and Balance Exercises.
The author wrote this ebook to help improve the lives of countless people who are suffering.
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How to boost your energy levels naturally
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Boost your energy with food by Lynn Grieger, R.D., C.D.E. If you can’t function in the morning without gallons of coffee and you run out of gas every afternoon, then this energy-boosting food plan is for you.

With this diet plan, instead of relying on caffeine or a trip to the vending machine for a fleeting burst of artificial energy, you choose healthy foods to rev up your engine. Here’s how the Energy Booster Diet will keep you energised all day long:

Breakfast
Option 1
Plain fat-free yoghurt with low-sugar muesli and mixed fresh berries
Small glass of orange juice

Option 2
2-egg omelette made with low-fat cheese, chopped veggies and low-fat ham or turkey
1 slice wholegrain toast topped with fruit spread
Small cup grapefruit juice

Option 3
Shredded wheat cereal with skimmed milk and a banana
1 slice wholewheat toast with peanut butter
Small glass tomato juice

Points to note for the rest of the day:

•’The right combination of carbohydrates, protein and fat eaten at regular intervals will help keep energy levels high. This diet includes balanced meals designed to boost your energy throughout the day
•Eating healthy snacks will help keep your blood-sugar levels even so that you don’t have energy ‘highs’ and ‘lows’. This meal plan includes tasty food suggestions to eat every three to four hours to keep your energy level from falling
•Not drinking enough liquids can cause you to feel fatigued due to dehydration. That’s why this diet includes fruit juices and skimmed milk with every meal choice, rather than ultra-sugary sodas or sweetened beverages that can cause energy lows
•Eating fried or fatty foods can make you feel sluggish. This food plan emphasises natural, unprocessed foods like fruits and vegetables that won’t slow you down. ‘

Read more: Boost your energy with food http://www.ivillage.co.uk/health/hlive/eat/articles/0,,181039_532821,00.html#ixzz0yGd7pUFw

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Where to find advice worth far more than £1000 for nothing
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What does it take to waste £5,000 (say, $10,000) a year? Just £13.50 per day

The 5 Most Common Money Mistakes, according to goodhousekeeping.com are :

1.In rocky times, you can’t afford to play fast, loose, and clueless with your finances.
Minor money gaffes can add up to thousands of lost dollars (or pounds) over time. Avoid the five most common money mistakes, and you could add more than £5,000 to your savings this year.

It is not just the discretionary spending on the odd luxury- we do not intend in this service to be ‘killjoys’, there will be times for treating ourselves. Two-for-one deals, even in discount stores, and the occasional frapuccino can do real damage to your bottom line.

2. If you are still in employment and you are not taking advantage of your employer’s pension plan, you [could be] throwing money away.

3. Allowing your kids(or grandkids) their endless wish lists when you are out shopping. Adopt a ‘distract and delay’ tactic. This can mean fewer snacks, and less spend.

4. Spending and not saving every windfall: A tax rebate, birthday money present, an income raise.

5. You should not underestimate the contribution you or a partner make towards the household budget. It may pay to ensure that you are adequately (but not excessively) covered by appropriate insurance cover against those potentially costly events in life.

For the full information on the above check out
http://www.goodhousekeeping.com/money/budget/common-money-mistakes-5

I do hope you find the above information useful. The final topic this week is not ‘rocket science’, but reminds me, for instance, how I can fritter away small amounts of cash on’ this and that’,when perhaps I could be saving an appreciable amount over, say, a year to put towards something substantially more beneficial.

Don’t miss your next issue on 9th September!

If you have missed earlier issues of The60Life Weekly, these can be found at www.the60life.com

Yours,

Mike Paterson,
The 60Life Weekly

PS: Please, if you have your own stories, tips, or feedback send them to me at
[email protected]

Disclaimer: It is always my intention to be as accurate in fact, detail and comment as possible. However, I cannot be held responsible for any error in details, accuracy or judgement whatsoever. This e-letter is produced on this understanding

Discover why creative writing is for everyone

The60LifeWeekly

19th August 2010

· The essential vitamin that can both prevent and cure cancer

· Discover why creative writing is for everyone

· Are you losing money to an unnoticed waster in your home?

This week, I was reminded of my childhood when I learned that the longest serving actor in the long running radio soap, ‘The Archers’, is June Spencer who has played Peggy Archer (later Woolley) for 60 years! I sneaked in a post about her this week at
www.the60life.com

Below, please find three more topics for the week…

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Are you losing money to an unnoticed waster in your home?
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Saving Money and Energy in the Home with Efficient Appliances
MoneyHighStreet Staff report that:
For too many homeowners today, inefficient appliances are robbing them of hard earned money while wasting valuable energy. Refrigerators, washing machines, and dishwashers account for the bulk of these energy costs, with fridges being the most prolific. A fridge freezer must work all day, every day and that can mean huge costs for those people who aren’t buying the right appliances or using those appliances correctly.
Are you leaving money in your fridge?
Is your fridge costing up to two-thirds more to run than it should?
You may find the answer here:
moneyhighstreet.com

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The author wrote this ebook to help improve the lives of countless people who are suffering.

CLICK HERE NOW! for pilates-ebook

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The essential vitamin that can both prevent and cure cancer

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NaturalNews reports that:

‘half century ago, Linus Pauling began his pioneering research into how vitamin C impacts health (http://www.naturalnews.com/025802.html). Now, almost 25 years after Pauling’s death, a new study backs up his contention that vitamin C has remarkable healing and protective benefits. In fact, now scientists have discovered how vitamin C may put the brakes on the growth of cancer cells.

‘Margreet Vissers, associate professor at the University of Otago’s Free Radical Research Group in New Zealand, headed the study which was just published in the journal Cancer Research. “Our results offer a promising and simple intervention to help in our fight against cancer, at the level of both prevention and cure,” Dr.Vissers said in a statement to the press.”‘

Her research team’s findings suggested vitamin C can help in both the prevention and treatment of cancer, and it was of importance in keeping cells healthy. The research suggested that’ vitamin C might be able to limit diseases such as cancer that involve cells that go haywire. In the case of a malignancy, for example, cells have unregulated growth.’

www.naturalnews.com/029434_vitamin_C_cancer.html

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Discover why creative writing is for everyone
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This week I’ve found a real ‘gem’ of a site, chock-full of information and resources for the creative writer. The site introduces itself in this way:

‘There are literally millions of aspiring writers in every corner of the globe, all of whom are seeking to discover innovative ways to unlock their personal creativity and free the stories they yearn to pen. Yet so many of these would-be literary artists are stopped by overwhelming questions-How do I get started? Where can I find the inspiration? Am I really good enough to write?

‘At Scribblepad, our primary goal is to help adults (and older children and teens, too!) find and release their inner voices. From prose to poetry, Scribblepad’s expertly researched and authored features and articles give readers immediately implementable hints, practical advice and proven methods.’

www.scribblepad.co.uk

I hope you find the above full information useful.
Coming-up in the next issue will be three more items, giving more health and wealth related news and tips.

Don’t miss your next issue on 26th August!

Yours ,

Mike Paterson,
The 60Life Weekly

PS: If you have your own stories, tips, or feedback please send them to me at
[email protected]

PPS: If you have missed earlier issues of The 60Life Weekly these can be found in the archives at
http://www.the60life.com

Why do optimistic people live longer?

The60LifeWeekly

12th August 2010

· Why do optimistic people tend to live longer?

· 8 ways to improve your finances in just a few minutes a week

· How to increase your chances of preventing cancer

This week we look at three more topics of interest to most of us.
At any age, our health is of paramount importance to us. Also, at any age, our wealth, or lack of it, is a frequent pre-occupation…

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Why do optimistic people tend to live longer?
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First up, though, a question: are you a glass half-full person, or does your glass tend usually to be half-empty?

According to a recent study by the Mayo Clinic optimistic people live longer lives, by almost 20%!!!

From a report written by Jonathan Wells – Advanced LifeSkills]:

‘Most of us enjoy being in the company of positive, optimistic people. Their sunny outlook on life is both refreshing and encouraging. It is easy to see the benefits that we gain from associating with those who are filled with optimism, but what about them?

Have you ever wondered whether or not there are any tangible, long term benefits associated with having a positive outlook? Does our attitude really affect our health as some have claimed, or is this just one of those scenarios that sound reasonable but can’t be proven.

Science meets the challenge

The BBC recently reported on a long term study conducted by the prestigious Mayo Clinic aimed at finding the answers to those very questions.

Between 1962 and 1965 they interviewed more than 1,100 patients and gave each of them an optimism ranking based on their perception of life. Then they tracked those people for the next 30 years to see if they could identify any noticeable differences.

For a full report, and tips for a longer happier life you can check-in at

familyhealthguide.co.uk/10-tips-for-a-longer-happier-life

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8 ways to improve your finances in just a few minutes a week

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So how much time does it take to turn-off unnecessary lights, switch-off the TV, and other appliances, when not in use? Hang out more clothes to dry on a line instead of using the tumble dryer. Money Mail reckons these few small steps alone can save the average family about £82 per annum. And there’s more…

1. Switch to paying your car insurance premiums annually
as many insurers charge interest of up to 15% if premiums are paid in monthly instalments.
2. Trace missing funds- a dormant account or a deferred/lost
pension . Start by going to www.unclaimedassets.co.uk to point you in the right direction.
3. Track down the cheapest motor fuel in your area by entering your postcode at www.petrolprices.com
4. Visit www.saynoto0870.com if you are calling 0845 or 0870 numbers to see if there is a local number you can call.
5. Search the internet for the latest offers and vouchers. Among the best sites is www.vouchercodes.com
6. Take-out for free that DVD or book that you are only ever likely to read but once from your local library (if you have one)
7. Obtain a railcard to save almost a third off your travel costs.
8. Check you are not paying too much income tax. A quick look at your coding notice should help. If you are in doubt check it out at the HMRC helpline on 0845 3000 627

And there’s more, another you can check out 42 more ways to make or save money at thisismoney.co.uk

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How to increase your chances of preventing cancer

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According to familyhealthguide.co.uk :

Diet and Lifestyle Tips to Help Prevent Cancer

[From a report by Millie Barrett BSc(Hons), mBANT]

There are more than 293,000 new cases of cancer diagnosed each year in the UK, and more than 1 in 3 people will develop some form of cancer during their lifetime. More than 1 in 3 people – that is a shocking figure.

According to Cancer Research UK, approximately half and probably more, of all cancers could be prevented by diet and lifestyle changes.

So we do have the power to act and reduce our personal risk of developing cancer – but how?

The following nine recommendations come from the World Cancer Research Fund Global Network (WCRFGN), which is made up of a panel of international experts working in the fields of cancer prevention, epidemiology, human nutrition, obesity and public health. Many of the recommendations are familiar public health goals based on maintaining a healthy weight, regular exercise and a well-balanced diet.

The WCRFGN recommendations:

· Be as lean as possible within the normal range of body weight
· Be physically active as part of everyday life
· Limit consumption of energy-dense foods and avoid sugary drinks
· Eat mostly foods of plant origin
· Limit intake of red meat and avoid processed meat
· Limit alcoholic drinks
· Limit consumption of salt and avoid mouldy cereals or pulses
· Aim to meet nutritional needs through diet alone
· Mothers to breastfeed and children to be breastfed exclusively for six months and as complementary feeding thereafter

You can check out more at familyhealthguide.co.uk

I hope you find the above full information useful. Often a simple reminder of things we should do helps save cash in these times of ecomomic difficulty. Yes, I will switch-off that light next time when I leave an empty room!

Coming-up in the next issue will be three more items, giving health and wealth related news and tips. Debt relief tips, flagged last time, will be for another week.

Look out for your next issue on 19th August!

Yours ,

Mike Paterson,
The 60Life Weekly

PS: If you have your own stories, tips, or feedback please send them to me at

[email protected]

PPS: If you have missed earlier issues of The 60Life Weekly these can be found in the archives at

www.the60life.com

It’s not too late to think about your financial security

The60LifeWeekly

22^nd July 2010

Is there a writing bug, and do you have it?

It’s never too late to think of financial security

Gas and electricity prices: who has the real deal?

This week, I have assumed that, as you clicked through to join the 60life weekly group, and also to obtain my free e-book, that one of our shared interests over time will be writing. Below is a very useful resource I have found for you…

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Is there a writing bug, and do you have it?

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…Although I do not know your level of interest in, or experience of, writing, my intention in drawing your attention to the link below is to provide a link to an excellent new introductory resource which I hope many looking to take-up writing again, possibly for the very first time, (and an interest in books) will find very useful.

Booktrust : ” Creative writing can be something very private. From jotting down your thoughts in a diary to composing a love letter, or writing something for the world to see: setting up a blog or even writing your own biography or novel.

All you need is a pen, some paper and a small bit of inspiration…

…Independent reading charity Booktrust [has launched] its first project aimed at engaging over 60s in reading and creative writing. Bookbite,[ launched on 8th February], is designed to “encourage those who rarely or never read books to engage more in reading and writing for pleasure, using the internet to access additional resources where and when possible”.

For some writing tips you should check this out:

http://www.bookbite.org.uk/writing/writingtips Here you will find case studies, tips, resources, and great encouragement.

In later issues, I shall be looking at writing for both pleasure and profit.

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It’s never too late to think of financial security

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Flexible funds to help weather the current economic storm.

At a time when a number of index-linked products have been withdrawn by National Savings and Investment

The Daily Telegraph reports that:

‘Stock markets are unpredictable at the best of times, but the economic turmoil of the past few years has left many fund managers wondering which way to turn…

“In my 20 years as a fund manager I’ve never had to work in such uncertain times,” said Ian Spreadbury, Fidelity’s strategic bond manager. “It isn’t clear whether we are heading into recovery or back into recession, whether this will herald an inflationary period or a prolonged deflationary one, or what will happen to interest rates.”

Cautious investors are hedging their bets by flocking to risk-averse funds that claim to offer flexibility to weather whatever storms lie ahead. Absolute return funds are top of the popularity tables, with cautious managed and strategic bond funds making up the remainder of the top 10.’

You can read the full report here http://www.telegraph.co.uk/finance/personalfinance/investing/7898286/Flexible-funds-to-keep-your-portfolio-in-the-pink.html

As promised, I am including Simple Financial Management in Retirement, a special free report prepared for you this week.

This is at http://www.the60lifeweekly.com/FSIRSI.pdf

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Gas and electricity prices: who has the real deal?

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Now may be a good time to review what you are paying for domestic fuel.You have last winter’s bills by now, and with the lower demand

from customers in the warmer months suppliers may have a better deal for you. In any event, it is a good idea to check out regularly how your current charges compare with others.

This is not always an easy exercise but you could take some help from an independent online energy price comparison service. I can report that over50s.com has teamed up with ukpower.co.uk:

Ukpower.co.uk say: We compare gas and electricity suppliers and help people switch to the cheapest deal!

‘We compare the whole market so you won’t find any deal cheaper elsewhere, no other website, doorknocker or energy supplier can beat that!

It’s completely free, the service provided is paid by commission we receive from suppliers when you switch on our website.

We are completely impartial, we list all tariffs from all suppliers, including those suppliers who do not pay us commission. We are accredited by the consumer focus confidence code so you can be sure the website compares all tariffs in a fair and impartial way.

You can save up to £350 by taking just five minutes to switch your energy supplier.

Start your comparison by entering your postcode above, and see how much you can save!’

http://www.ukpower.co.uk

In the next issue, I’ve got for you news and tips about:

further developing your creative writing skills
a way to fitness at a stretch
saving money with a late summer travel offer

Look out for your next issue on 29^th July.

Yours ,

Mike Paterson,

The 60Life Weekly

PS: If you have your own stories, tips, or feedback please send them to me at

[email protected]

Disclaimer: It is always my intention to be as accurate in fact,detail and comment as possible. However, I cannot be held responsible for any error in details ,accuracy or judgement whatsoever. This e-letter is produced on this understanding.

Moving the chairs around on the deck of the old ship Britannia?

Now that the last Budget before the next UK General Election expected in May is stowed away, what do we make of it? Some commentators have been at best neutral about Chancellor Darling’s efforts to steady the ship, many others have looked on the Budget as very much a political one where the chairs on deck are being moved around with money previously earmarked for schemes being switched into other more high profile and ‘deserving’ ones. Whether the effect of this financial engineering will help save the UK economy, in any way better than the moving of the furniture around the deck saved the RMS Titanic, is something we will not know until the passage of some time. Certainly,the result of this Labour will not become apparent until long after the imminent May General Election.

the 60life of work

Now to a specific Budget topic which is of interest to many in the 60-lifer group, who incidentally are a growing and therefore potentially more influential block of voters, spied in yesterday’s Financial Times under a sub-heading “Over-60s”.It was reported that the minimum number of work hours needed to be eligible for the working tax credit is to be reduced, so as to make it easier for the over-60s to receive the benefit. Furthermore , there is to be consideration of a reform of the employer’s right to enforce people to retire at the age of 65. This could result in the scrapping of a default age for retirement. Now that would be handy then, given that many people may soon find themselves having to carry on working nearly all of their lives, in order to have an income sufficient to keep body and soul together. He giveth with one hand only to take it away with the other?

You know all this talk about projections for growth , borrowing and spending into 2014-15 ,and beyond, leaves us perhaps feeling it is not our day. What happened to yesterday’s promises, for people living in England and Wales, on care for the elderly for instance; and no person will have to sell his/her home in order to have properly funded care services if needed in later years? Here is a quote to leave you with today:

‘Freezing the inheritance tax threshold to pay for older people’s care adds up to a funding increase of £110m by 2012/13 – a drop in the ocean compared to the over £1.79bn needed over the next two years to plug the social care funding gap’-

Michelle Mitchell, Age Concern Communications Director

Well, never mind, then. You can just try to stay healthy and carry on working until you drop.

’til next time.

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