The timing and sequence of your retirement account withdrawals can affect your tax bill, Medicare premiums and how long your nest egg lasts. Understanding the rules can help you make informed decisions and maximize your retirement savings.

Consider these retirement account withdrawal strategies:

— Take required minimum distributions when necessary.

— Withdraw funds during low-income years.

— Review Roth conversions.

— Coordinate withdrawals across different account types.

— Use charitable giving strategies when appropriate.

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Understand Required Minimum Distribution Rules

A , or RMD, is the minimum amount that must be withdrawn annually from most traditional retirement accounts once you reach the required age. RMDs generally begin at age 73 for individuals born between 1951 and 1959. For those born in 1960 or later, the starting age rises to 75.

Failing to take a required distribution can result in a penalty. However, recent legislation reduced the penalty for missed RMDs, making the consequences less severe. Most retirees must take their first RMD by April 1 following the year they reach their required beginning age. After that, RMDs must be taken by Dec. 31 each year.

“The gap years between retirement and RMD age can be extremely valuable planning years,” says Ryan D. Seufert, co-founder of Silver Grove Financial Group in Orchard Park, New York. “Retirees may be able to use that window for Roth conversions, strategic IRA distributions at lower tax brackets, or capital gain harvesting on assets such as stocks or real estate before RMDs begin.”

Take Advantage of Low-Tax Years

One of the most effective retirement withdrawal strategies is to take distributions during years when your taxable income is relatively low.

“The early retirement years can be an attractive window for intentional IRA distributions or Roth conversions, particularly before RMDs, Social Security, pensions or other income sources fully come online,” says Kevin Prendergast, a partner at Leelyn Smith in Geneva, Illinois.

“If retirees do nothing, those pretax accounts may continue compounding until RMDs eventually force more taxable income than they actually need, potentially pushing them into higher federal brackets, increasing the taxation of Social Security, and affecting Medicare premiums.”

Rather than waiting until RMDs force larger withdrawals, some retirees gradually draw from traditional retirement accounts while remaining in a lower tax bracket. may also provide a regular source of retirement income. By setting up recurring withdrawals, retirees can create a steady income stream that functions much like a paycheck.

Consider Strategic Roth Conversions

A allows you to move money from a traditional retirement account into a and pay the related taxes upfront. While the conversion creates taxable income in the year it occurs, future qualified Roth withdrawals are generally tax-free.

Many retirees spread Roth conversions over several years rather than converting a large balance all at once. Staggering conversions may help limit the amount of income taxed at higher rates and reduce the risk of moving into a higher tax bracket.

Roth accounts also offer additional flexibility because they are not subject to lifetime RMDs for the original account owner.

In addition, the eliminated RMDs from Roth 401(k) and Roth 403(b) accounts beginning in 2024. Previously, retirees often rolled these accounts into Roth IRAs to avoid required withdrawals. That extra step is no longer necessary.

“SECURE Act and SECURE 2.0 changes have made beneficiary planning much more important,” Seufert says. The higher RMD “is significant because it extends the Roth conversion runway for many retirees,” Seufert says. “The extra time before RMDs begin is a planning opportunity, not a reason to delay tax planning.”

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Coordinate Withdrawals Across Multiple Accounts

Many retirees have assets spread across traditional retirement accounts, Roth accounts and taxable brokerage accounts. Rather than relying on a single account for income, some coordinate withdrawals from multiple account types to help manage their taxes more effectively.

“An effective withdrawal strategy should focus on proper tax bracket utilization,” says Andrew Matz, a financial planner at Oak Road Wealth Management in Lee’s Summit, Missouri. “The traditional advice is to first withdraw taxable accounts. While this may be a good rule of thumb, we often find that lower tax brackets should (take advantage of) traditional IRA withdrawals. If large one-time expenses could push you into a higher tax bracket (like going from the 12% to 22% bracket), consider withdrawing from a taxable brokerage account to utilize long-term capital gains treatment or a tax-free Roth IRA distribution rather than taking an ordinary income tax hit.”

Understand the New Rules for Inherited IRAs

Most non-spouse beneficiaries who must fully withdraw the account balance within 10 years of the original owner’s death. Some beneficiaries may also need to take annual RMDs during the 10-year period if the original owner had begun taking them before death.

As a result, beneficiaries may no longer be able to wait until the final year to empty the account. “Reducing the size of your pretax retirement accounts is also important because if your kids inherit a large IRA, they will be forced to empty it in 10 years and may be pushed into higher tax brackets,” says Matz. “Brokerage accounts and Roth IRAs are more ideal legacy vehicles. Roth IRAs remain tax-free to your children, and brokerage accounts receive a step up in cost basis at death, meaning there is normally a small, if any, gain in the account for your kids to pay taxes on.”

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Incorporate Charitable Giving

For retirees who support charitable causes, a qualified charitable distribution, or QCD, can be one of the most tax-efficient withdrawal strategies.

Individuals age 70½ and older can transfer money directly from an IRA to a qualified charity. The distribution is excluded from taxable income and can help satisfy RMD requirements.

“For charitably inclined retirees, QCDs remain one of the most tax-efficient ways to satisfy RMDs because the distribution can go directly to charity without being included in taxable income,” Seufert says. For 2026, the annual QCD limit is $111,000 per individual.

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“Right now, with gasoline and food prices up, it’s a difficult time,” says Steven Conners, founder and president of Conners Wealth Management in Scottsdale, Arizona.

The latest consumer price index shows annual inflation at 4.2% in May 2026, with gasoline prices up 40.5% from a year earlier and food costs rising 3.1%.

As families struggle to absorb these rising costs, workers may be tempted to dip into their retirement accounts for cash. In the first quarter of 2026, the declined 4% compared to the previous quarter, according to Fidelity.

If you need money for an emergency, a hardship withdrawal from your 401(k) account may be an option, but it won’t come cheap, experts caution. For many people, taking a 401(k) loan, using a credit card or tapping home equity may be a better choice.

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How to Take a Hardship Withdrawal

Not every workplace retirement plan allows hardship withdrawals, but for those that do, owners need to follow the hardship withdrawal . Rules dictate a hardship distribution can only be taken for an “immediate and heavy financial need,” and distributions are limited to the amount necessary to satisfy that need.

“A hardship withdrawal can only be used for very specific reasons,” says Michael Policar, a financial advisor with NGP Financial Planning in the greater Seattle area.

The IRS allows employers to determine if a worker has an immediate or heavy need based on its plan rules. However, most will automatically consider the following to be a qualifying need.

— Medical expenses

— Purchase of a principal residence

— College and postsecondary education costs, including tuition, fees and room and board

— Payments to avoid eviction or foreclosure

— Funeral expenses

— Repairs to a principal residence

Vanguard says the 401(k) plans it administers use the following methods to qualify workers for a hardship withdrawal.

— 3% allow workers to self-certify that they have a qualifying need, have no alternative source of funds and are only withdrawing the amount needed.

— 87% use a summary service which doesn’t require any upfront documentation from workers but may require information be provided upon request.

— 10% require workers to submit documentation regarding their financial need when requesting a hardship withdrawal.

“If you’re stuck, it’s your money,” Conners says. That makes a hardship withdrawal an appealing way to get needed cash, but he adds, “It really should be under desperate measures.”

Newer Option: $1,000 Penalty-Free 401(k) Withdrawal

The of 2022 created a new emergency withdrawal option for 401(k) participants. Emergency withdrawals are capped at $1,000 per calendar year, and participants must retain at least $1,000 in their account after the withdrawal. For example, someone with a balance of $1,750 would only be able to withdraw $750.

No documentation is required to make the withdrawal, and workers have the option to repay the withdrawal directly or use salary deferrals.

“If you don’t pay it back, you can only do a withdrawal every three years,” Policar says.

As with regular hardship distributions, employers aren’t required to offer this option to workers. Unlike regular hardship distributions, these withdrawals are exempt from the 10% early withdrawal penalty that is assessed if a worker is younger than 59 1/2.

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How Much a Hardship Distribution Will Cost You

A hardship distribution comes with both short-term and long-term costs.

Some plans may charge a small administrative fee for processing a hardship withdrawal request. For withdrawals from a traditional 401(k) account, 20% of the distribution will be held for federal income tax. Depending on a person’s tax bracket, more may be due at tax time.

There is also a 10% early withdrawal penalty for workers who are younger than age 59 1/2. This penalty may be waived in certain circumstances, such as if the hardship withdrawal is used to pay medical bills in excess of 7.5% of a person’s adjusted gross income.

Taxes and the early withdrawal penalty could mean that a $10,000 hardship distribution turns into $7,000 or less. However, the short-term costs are only one part of the equation.

“The long-term cost can be significant,” according to Policar. “The pretax compound growth opportunity is gone forever.”

That’s because once money is withdrawn through a regular hardship distribution, it can’t be repaid and won’t gain value in the market. The S&P 500 has had an average annual return of 10% since its inception in 1957, according to Fidelity. Using that rate of return, the chart below illustrates the potential growth a 35-year-old could forgo over a 30-year period by making a hardship withdrawal.

“Once you take it, that’s it,” Conners says. “There is no giving it back.”

To avoid losing all those gains, financial experts advise people to consider 401(k) loans or other options first.

401(k) Loan vs. Hardship Withdrawal

A is another option for workers who need emergency cash. Assuming they are allowed by a plan, loans can be taken for any reason and are limited to $50,000 or the 50% of the account’s vested balance, whichever is less. That is, unless 50% of an account’s vested balance is less than $10,000. In that case, workers can borrow up to $10,000.

Since a 401(k) loan must be repaid, it minimizes the potential lost gains. Loans typically have a five-year repayment period, although if you leave your job, the balance will need to be repaid earlier. Interest on a 401(k) loan is deposited into the worker’s account, making it the equivalent of paying interest to yourself.

“If you take a loan and struggle to pay it back, the loan becomes an early withdrawal,” Policar says.

In that case, taxes and an early withdrawal penalty will apply, but they will generally be calculated on a smaller balance if the borrower has already repaid part of the loan.

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Other Options When You Need Cash

Bruce Maginn, partner with Solomon Financial in Carmel, Indiana, encourages people to look beyond their retirement accounts when they need money.

“If they can do almost anything else, it’s going to be better,” he says. Workers might come out ahead financially even if they end up paying interest on a loan.

As an example, Maginn points out that taking $100,000 from a 401(k) could mean losing $1.744 million in gains over 30 years, based on the S&P 500’s average annual return of 10%. If someone took out a $100,000 loan and paid 10% interest while paying it off over 30 years, they would pay a total of $216,000 in interest.

“It’s a good trade to pay $216,000 in interest and get $1.744 million in gains,” Maginn says. “If you get a loan, you are paying interest on a declining amount.” Meanwhile, assets are compounding on a bigger balance.

A could be a source of money for homeowners, and those with good credit may be able to get a credit card with an introductory . Both may have lower long-term costs than a 401(k) hardship withdrawal.

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“Many of the names that we own were once $5 stocks,” says Chris Retzler, portfolio manager of the Needham Small Cap Growth Fund (ticker: ). “That is not a bad place to be starting for value investors who are willing to do a lot of homework.”

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Low-Priced Stocks: Opportunity or Value Trap?

The key is knowing the difference between a low-priced stock and a low-quality business. A company trading under $5 may be an early-stage growth story or a turnaround candidate, or it may be a value trap with little path to profitability.

This distinction matters even more in 2026. Mega-cap still dominate the market conversation, but the artificial intelligence buildout is pushing capital spending into data centers, power infrastructure, memory chips and other parts of the supply chain. AI-related capital spending is estimated to reach roughly $765 billion in 2026 and $7.6 trillion between 2026 and 2031, according to Goldman Sachs research.

For smaller suppliers, that spending can create opportunity. Retzler says the bull market is beginning to broaden as some of the largest companies move beyond buybacks and and start putting more capital to work in their businesses. “One company’s capital expenditure can become another company’s revenue source,” he says.

This can benefit smaller suppliers tied to areas such as , computer memory, rare earth materials, optical components, power infrastructure, data centers and military modernization, Retzler says. He has not seen tech management teams this excited about their opportunities in years, particularly as supply-chain bottlenecks, reshoring and defense spending create new demand.

He also points to healthier equity capital markets and improving merger-and-acquisition activity as signs the environment for smaller companies may be improving.

How to Evaluate Cheap Stocks Under $5

Still, investors shouldn’t confuse opportunity with easy money. can move fast in both directions, and momentum can push prices beyond what the fundamentals justify. “You need to be price disciplined in your purchases,” Retzler says.

Before buying, he recommends looking closely at the strength of the board of directors and management team. That includes insider ownership, open-market stock purchases, end-market demand, access to capital and the experience of individual board members.

Investors should also look for a diverse mix of corporate, operational, legal and transactional expertise. If the company operates globally, Retzler says, its board should include international experience to help navigate cross-border business. If the company was venture-backed, investors can also review the track record of the venture capitalists that helped bring it public.

Finally, vet not just the industry the company is in, but also the industries it serves. The best cheap stocks are not just low-priced; they have credible leadership, access to capital and a realistic path to benefit from larger spending trends.

With all of this in mind, here are five cheap stocks under $5 that merit a closer look:

Valens Semiconductor Ltd. ()

Valens Semiconductor is one of those small-cap chip companies operating behind the scenes of some very big technology trends. The company develops high-speed-connectivity chips used in audio-video and automotive applications like advanced driver-assistance systems.

The automotive angle is perhaps its strongest right now. In February 2026, the company partnered with global automotive camera supplier MCNEX to launch automotive-grade cameras powered by Valens’ chipsets. Valens’ first-quarter 2026 results were also promising. It reported $16.9 million in revenue for the quarter, exceeding guidance, with a healthy increase in automotive revenue for the quarter.

Valens’ niche looks increasingly relevant as vehicles become more sensor- and data-heavy, but brace yourself for a bumpy ride with this small-cap semiconductor stock.

[Read: ]

Ceragon Networks Ltd. ()

Ceragon Networks develops 5G wireless transport systems used by public safety organizations, utility and , government agencies and more. In plain English, Ceragon helps customers move data faster. That becomes increasingly important as AI workloads and edge computing continue to expand.

In April 2026, Ceragon highlighted roughly $10 million in recent private-network contracts across utilities, mining, defense and public sector markets. These contracts are expected to add about $7.4 million to 2026 revenue. First-quarter 2026 revenue fell 4.1% year over year, but gross margin improved. GAAP operating income also leapt to $2.1 million from an operating loss a year earlier. That makes it a more established infrastructure play than many sub-$5 tech stocks.

Comtech Telecommunications Corp. ()

For a military modernization angle under $5 per share, take a look at Comtech Telecommunications. The communications technology company provides satellite and space communications, terrestrial network systems, next-generation 911 technology and emergency services and cloud capabilities for companies and governments around the globe.

In March, Comtech delivered the first Enterprise Digital Intermediate Frequency Multicarrier (EDIM) modems to the U.S. Army under a $48.6 million contract. The program is designed to replace aging military modems used by Army, Navy and Air Force operators with advanced, software-defined platforms.

The company just reported its fourth consecutive quarter of positive operating cash flow in the second quarter of 2026. While it’s still not consistently profitable, this suggests it’s on the right path.

Vuzix Corp. ()

Vuzix is also a military modernization play, but with a slightly broader scope. The company develops AI-powered smart glasses, waveguides and augmented reality (AR) tech used by defense, medical, security, enterprise and consumer markets.

Its defense angle is becoming more visible: In April 2026, it shipped a six-figure order for waveguide-based AR display systems from a major defense customer. Later that month, it received another six-figure development order from a tier-one aerospace defense supplier for a next-generation military display system.

That said, it’s still a speculative play. First-quarter 2026 revenue fell 12% year over year due to lower product sales. Still, its quarterly net loss narrowed to $7.1 million from $8.6 million in the same quarter last year. So for an optical components play under $5 per share, keep an eye on Vuzix.

Sidus Space Inc. ()

This tiny space and defense technology company builds satellites and space hardware and sells AI-powered data and mission services.

In its first-quarter update, Sidus said it delivered initial high-resolution imagery from its AI-enabled Earth observation satellite LizzieSat-3. The company also finalized flight-ready configurations for next-generation systems LizzieSat-4 and LizzieSat-5. Revenue rose 51% year over year in the first quarter of 2026, to $359,000, but the business is still very early-stage and reported a $5.2 million net loss. That’s $1.2 million less than the net loss in the first quarter of 2025, though.

If you’re willing to bet on the future of space tech and can wait for the profit tides to turn, this cheap stock is worth considering.

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Having been a first-generation college student back in the day, I was pretty clueless as to how it all worked — and I can still remember the surprise I felt when I found out how much my monthly loan payment would be. This time around, when my son was ready to log into his student aid account, I pulled up a chair to go through the counseling session with him. Here’s what we learned.

What Is Federal Student Loan Exit Counseling?

“During exit counseling, you will review the terms and conditions that apply to your federal student loans, be introduced to various repayment options, and learn the importance of avoiding default.”

That’s how exit loan counseling is described by StudentAid.gov, the U.S. Department of Education portal where each student’s profile lives. Unlike the torturous experience of simply reading through terms and conditions, though, the exit counseling session is interactive, broken into modules, and has a brief quiz at the end of each section to make sure you understand the information.

“Because most borrowers remain in repayment for approximately 10 to 25 years, it is important to understand the various repayment options available, the total amount borrowed, and how to identify and communicate with loan servicers,” says Dawn Januszkiewicz, assistant director of federal student aid programs at Adelphi University. She adds that the process is designed to educate borrowers on their rights and responsibilities, as well as help borrowers successfully manage their student loan debt.

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Why Is Exit Loan Counseling Mandatory?

Federal student loan exit counseling became mandatory with a 1986 amendment to the Higher Education Act. It’s become much simpler to complete in recent years since it can be done online through your StudentAid.gov account.

“It’s mandatory to ensure every student and soon-to-be borrower understands the extent of their responsibilities as a Direct Student Loan borrower,” says Tom O’Hare, holistic college advisor at Get College Going, a college admissions and financial aid coaching and counseling service.

Although students are also required to sit through “entrance counseling” when they first borrow a federal student loan, my son was 18 at the time. Like many parents, I probably clicked through it for him while he was more concerned with getting the things he needed for school.

“Students, unfortunately, operate in a vacuum, unaware of the overall obligations and responsibilities that come with borrowing a federal student loan program,” says O’Hare. “For many, they are unaware until graduation and after that they have entered into a legally binding consumer loan obligation that must be repaid. A responsibility that, if ignored, can ruin their credit.”

Exit counseling aims to soften that blow and give students time to prepare for what will happen after the six-month grace period, while encouraging them to get a head start with payments if they can. That’s why Januszkiewicz thinks it’s an important requirement (even if it happens to fall in the midst of graduation party planning and job hunting).

“I think it’s unfair to expect a recent graduate to inherently know all the current repayment options and servicer information amidst a major change of life event, like graduating college and entering the full-time job market for the first time,” she says. “It’s our responsibility to educate our students and direct them to the resources they need.”

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Key Points You Learn During Exit Counseling

Exit loan counseling session is broken into sections, and it went pretty smoothly for us. Here’s the lineup:

Contact Settings

This is where the student confirms all of their information and selects the school that needs to be notified that counseling is completed.

Why it’s important: The student needs to make sure their contact info is updated, since this is how the loan servicer will get in touch. I’ve heard stories where a student didn’t update their school email or campus address, and missed loan correspondence which caused them to fall behind on payments.

My Loans

This is the “wow” moment, where your student sees the total of how much they owe. But you’ll also learn about how interest accrues, when you need to begin paying, and other relevant loan terminology.

Why it’s important: I’ve been trying to teach my sons about how interest works for a while now, but this was a perfect example of it in action. Take a longer time to pay, and you pay more; attack your loan balances aggressively (if you can) and pay less. Getting to run his own numbers here took an abstract idea and made it very real for my son. Also eye-opening? It shows you how much interest accrues per day and per month (ouch!).

Preparing to Repay

Topics covered here include the student’s responsibility, info about the loan servicer, Federal loan benefits and why defaulting is serious business. There was also a step-by-step tutorial on how to make payments and set up autopay (which in my opinion, is the best way to ensure payments aren’t missed).

Why it’s important: I liked the reality check aspect for my son to see that this loan is his responsibility and what can happen if he doesn’t take it seriously. It showed the various consequences of defaulting beyond his personal finance writer mom droning on about credit scores. Pointing out the advantages of federal loans was also helpful (no prepayment penalty, ability to change your repayment plan, interest rate discount with autopay, student loan forgiveness if eligible, and deferment and forbearance). Now my son knows to think twice before consolidating any federal loans with a third-party student loan debt relief company (for which he’s already getting offers in the mail).

Your Repayment Strategy

This section has the student contemplate their financial picture after leaving school. What is the typical salary in their intended career field? Do they have a job lined up or strong prospects of finding a job? Are they married and do they have dependents? Then it gets into repayment goals and the different repayment options that match various financial outlooks.

Why it’s important: This was the bread and butter section of the counseling, in my opinion. It made my son think about how he will fit his loan bill into his budget based on his employment plans, and avoid . Will he earn enough to stick with standard repayment (the least costly option if you can manage it)? Or should he consider the graduated plan (which starts with lower payments at first) or extended plan (a longer loan term with smaller monthly payments)?

Final Steps

This section provided a summary and some next steps for the student.

Why it’s important: One of the last pages of the exit loan counseling links out to the tool, which lets you see estimated monthly loan payments using different payment strategies and scenarios. This is such a great way to demonstrate the positive impact of making payments early or making higher than minimum payments. It can also show how loan length adds to the overall amount you’ll pay, though taking a bit longer can be a lifeline in times of financial challenges.

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How to Approach Exit Counseling

It’s tempting to just speed through the session and hope you get the quiz questions right so you can move on, but I recommend dedicating the 15 minutes or so to work through the topics carefully.

“I would recommend students create a file and either take notes or print screens with the details they may want to reference later,” says Januszkiewicz.

The key items to capture: Total principal balance and servicer information. But how to avoid default, options like forbearance and deferment, how interest accrues, and different repayment plan options are important points, too. “It is too much to remember off the top of your head,” she says.

How to Access Student Loan Information Prior to Graduation

While the exit loan counseling is mandatory, here’s the kicker: Most of the info is available to explore at any point. I highly recommend poking around your StudentAid.gov account to get familiar with its tools and repayment options early on.

I’ve made a note to do this periodically when my younger son — now a high school junior — starts his college journey.

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Data reported to U.S. СÂÜÀòÓ°ÊÓ by 992 colleges in an annual survey showed that graduates from the class of 2024 who took out en route to a bachelor’s degree borrowed $29,890 on average. That’s $560 more than borrowers from the class of 2015 shouldered, representing a roughly 2% increase in the amount students borrowed over that decade.

The average debt of graduates varies based on institution type, per U.S. СÂÜÀòÓ°ÊÓ data. Those who graduated in 2024 from a ranked private, nonprofit college borrowed more on average, at $32,806, than public college graduates, who took out $25,549. The average debt among 2024 graduates of proprietary or schools was $32,787.

However, a smaller percentage of students are borrowing money to pay for college. In 2020, about 62% of college graduates took on federal student loan debt, while in 2024, 56% of graduates had borrowed, per data reported to U.S. СÂÜÀòÓ°ÊÓ.

The average total student loan debt, which includes both federal and , jumped by $11,169 from 2005 to 2017. But in recent years, the average amount borrowed has stabilized.

Factors That Lead to Student Loan Borrowing

Borrowing is often tied to the cost of college tuition and fees, and other educational expenses such as housing, food and textbooks. Financial aid can help cover these expenses, but families often experience a between financial aid received and the remaining cost of college.

“A lot of students continue to face what we call the affordability gap, and the majority of students who are facing that gap do turn to the to cover it,” says Michele Zampini, associate vice president of federal policy and advocacy at The Institute for College Access & Success.

Public institutions in particular have seen declines in state funding, she says.

“?States have been less and less able to subsidize their public institutions as the vast majority of students enroll in public institutions, whether two-year or four-year,” Zampini says.

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Over the last few decades — since the ’80s — states have been removing more of these costs from their budgets and putting them “on the backs of individual students and families to make up in the form of tuition and fees and other costs,” she says. “That’s kind of the broader why over the last several decades, we’ve seen the ‘I can work my way through college’ versus ‘I can’t cover costs without taking on debt.'”

But within the last five to 10 years, Zampini says, “the picture does change a little bit. Tuition costs are sometimes lowering in some sectors and borrowing is actually going down slightly, especially around undergraduates. But that doesn’t tell the entire story. It’s still too expensive and there’s still a really wide gap, especially for students with lower incomes. ?However, compared to the peak of tuition costs or the peak of borrowing, it has declined a little bit over the past several years.”

There’s also broad societal pressure about a college degree being “essential for career success,” Jesse Moore, senior vice president, head of student debt at Fidelity Investments, wrote in an email. That means “students are willing to take on debt in hopes of a better future. It’s a decision rooted in optimism, but it comes with long-term financial implications,” he says.

How Does Student Loan Debt Affect Borrowers?

Student loans are a burden for many Americans, especially when inflation rises significantly or during an economic recession. National student loan debt was $1.64 trillion in the second quarter of 2025, according to a quarterly by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York issued in August 2025.

This debt often has a major impact on the quality of life for those who take out loans to especially for borrowers who go into default, experts say.

“Student loan debt has a ripple effect on nearly every aspect of a borrower’s life,” Moore says. “It can delay major milestones like buying a home, starting a family or saving for retirement. Having debt can also take an emotional toll. Borrowers often report feeling stressed, anxious and overwhelmed.”

[Read: ]

technically occurs after more than 270 days of overdue payment, leading to potential legal implications and lost eligibility for further federal student aid. About 10% of aggregate student debt was reported to be at least 90 days past due, per Federal Reserve data.

“Defaulting on a student loan is something we always encourage borrowers to avoid if possible, because the consequences can be severe,” Moore says. “Defaulting can damage your credit score, making it harder to qualify for future loans or even rent an apartment. In the case of federal loans, your wages can be garnished, and you may lose access to important benefits like deferment or income-driven repayment plans. It’s a situation that can quickly spiral, which is why education and proactive support are so critical.”

What to Consider Before Taking Out a Student Loan

As prospective students start thinking about college, cost should not be the only factor. Research colleges’ outcomes data and potential future earnings, experts say.

“More than non-Pell take out federal student loans,” Zampini says. “The idea that students from low-income backgrounds have sufficient grant aid or state aid to cover their costs is not true. A lot of those students say, ‘We basically can’t enroll in college without taking on some type of debt.’ It becomes this question of, ‘Is this good debt or is this bad debt?’ That really depends on what type of program the student enrolls in, if they are able to complete some kind of degree or credential that then increases their earning potential and enables them to make good on that loan investment and repay over time.”

[Read: ]

Ultimately, if you decide to take out a loan, “it’s essential to understand what you’re signing up for,” Moore says. “That means looking at the total cost of the loan — not just the amount borrowed, but the interest and repayment terms over time.”

Zampini advises undergrads to maximize the amount of federal student loans they can take out before considering private loans, since federal options usually come with “more consumer protections” and “typically lower rates.”

“If you are looking at the private market, be very discerning about what company you’re working with, what lender you’re working with and see if there are any other options that you can take on before taking on that private debt,” she says. “The repayment terms are typically really strict and the rates are typically higher, and many times they’re a variable rate. So those loans are just not anywhere near the kind of consumer-friendly ‘product’ that is available through the federal government.”

Trying to fund your education? Get tips and more in the U.S. СÂÜÀòÓ°ÊÓ .

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Now in 2026, Pelosi is no longer Speaker and members of Congress are still allowed to buy and sell individual stocks as long as they publicly disclose their trades within 45 days. Pelosi and her financier husband Paul have stood out and gained quite a following on social media for their stock trades and huge returns in recent years.

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For any investor looking to piggyback on Pelosi’s trading success, here are eight Nancy Pelosi stocks to buy, according to her latest disclosures.

— AllianceBernstein Holding LP (ticker: )

— Alphabet Inc. (, )

— Amazon.com Inc. ()

— Nvidia Corp. ()

— Tempus AI Inc. ()

— Apple Inc. ()

— Vistra Corp. ()

— Broadcom Inc. ()

AllianceBernstein Holding LP ()

AllianceBernstein is a leading investment manager. Pelosi made several AB stock trades in the past few years. In February 2021, she made two purchases of AB stock totaling 40,000 shares. She purchased another 10,000 shares in January 2022. Pelosi dumped 20,000 shares of AB stock in December 2022 for a $11,510 loss. Most recently, she bought 25,000 shares in January 2026. AllianceBernstein has been far from a home run investment for Pelosi. The stock has lagged the S&P 500 and generated a total return of about 55% since her initial February 2021 purchase.

Alphabet Inc. (, )

Alphabet is the parent company of Google and YouTube and is a global leader in online advertising. In January 2025, Pelosi purchased 50 Alphabet Class A call options with a strike price of $150 expiring in January 2026. In December 2025, Pelosi contributed 7,704 shares of GOOGL stock to a donor-advised fund and purchased 20 Alphabet Class A call options with a strike price of $150 expiring in January 2027. In January 2026, Pelosi purchased 5,000 shares of GOOGL stock by exercising 50 call options. Since her January 2025 option purchase, Alphabet’s share price has roughly doubled.

Amazon.com Inc. ()

Amazon is a market leader in e-commerce and public cloud services. In January 2025, Pelosi purchased 50 Amazon call options with a strike price of $150 that expire in January 2026. In December 2025, Pelosi sold between $1 million and $5 million worth of Amazon stock and purchased 20 AMZN call options with a strike price of $120 that expire in January 2027. In January 2026, Pelosi exercised 50 call options and purchased 5,000 shares of AMZN stock. Amazon has secured several large U.S. government contracts over the years, including cloud services contracts with the National Security Agency.

Nvidia Corp. ()

Nvidia designs and sells high-end graphics and video processing chips used for desktop and gaming personal computers, workstations, , and other advanced computing servers and supercomputers. In January 2025, Pelosi bought 50 Nvidia call options with an $80 strike price and a January 2026 expiration. In December 2025, Pelosi sold 20,000 Nvidia shares and bought 20 Nvidia call options with a strike price of $100 expiring in January 2027. In January 2026, she bought 20 Nvidia call options with a strike price of $80 expiring in January 2027; she also bought 5,000 shares by exercising 50 Nvidia call options at a strike price of $80 per share in the same month. In the past three years, NVDA stock is up more than 400%.

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Tempus AI Inc. ()

Tempus AI is an diagnostics and services provider. In January 2025, Pelosi purchased 50 Tempus AI call options with a strike price of $20 expiring in January 2026. Pelosi’s purchase took place on Jan. 13, and Tempus launched its new AI-enabled personal health concierge app, olivia, eight days later. In January 2026, Pelosi exercised those 50 call options and purchased 5,000 shares of TEM stock. Pelosi’s investment was a major bullish catalyst. Tempus AI shot up more than 160% within three weeks of her initial disclosure but has since given up most of those gains.

Apple Inc. ()

Apple produces the iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, Mac computers and other personal computing devices. In addition, its Services segment includes its App Store, Apple Music, iCloud and licensing businesses. In December 2024, Pelosi sold 31,600 Apple shares. In October 2025, Pelosi contributed 382 shares of Apple stock to Trinity University. In December 2025, Pelosi contributed 28,200 AAPL shares to a donor-advised fund. That same month, Pelosi sold 45,000 shares and bought 20 Apple call options with a strike price of $100 expiring in January 2027. Since her latest option purchase, AAPL stock is up just over 7%.

Vistra Corp. ()

Vistra is a that provides electricity and natural gas to roughly 5 million residential, commercial and industrial customers across 20 U.S. states. In January 2025, Pelosi purchased 50 Vistra call options with a strike price of $50 expiring in January 2026. In January 2026, Pelosi exercised those 50 call options and purchased 5,000 shares of VST stock. Vistra has beefed up its nuclear power capacity in recent years and has gotten swept up in the AI investment boom. Leading tech companies are aggressively investing in nuclear power to meet energy demand.

Broadcom Inc. ()

Broadcom is a diversified global analog . It is yet another Pelosi stock that is highly exposed to AI technology and has benefited from a strong investor appetite for AI stocks. Broadcom’s big tech customers include Apple, Google and Cisco. In June 2024, Pelosi purchased 20 Broadcom call options with a split-adjusted $80 strike price expiring in June 2025. In June 2025, Pelosi exercised 200 Broadcom call options, purchasing 20,000 shares of AVGO stock at a 71% discount to market price. Since Pelosi made her Broadcom bet in June 2024, the stock is up about 137%.

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Finding the for the next 10 years is easier said than done, particularly given the psychological challenges that come with riding out inevitable bear markets over that span. But research shows a buy-and-hold strategy can be one of the most effective ways to build wealth, rather than chasing fads.

The most attractive long-term growth stocks combine strong competitive advantages, consistent revenue growth and proven business models that are capable of navigating any challenges that pop up on Wall Street in the future. The following companies are certainly not sure things, but based on current dominance and future growth projections they represent some of the most compelling long-term growth opportunities for the next 10 years:

Coinbase Global Inc. ()

Market value: $41 billion Sector: Financial services

Coinbase may be an odd place to start, given shares are down about 30% year to date. However, short-term volatility doesn’t negate the long-term opportunity. COIN is among the most established digital asset platforms in the U.S. and serves as a leading gateway to the . But while the stock has taken it on the chin as Bitcoin has rolled back, it’s important to understand this is an infrastructure company and not an asset manager. In other words, COIN benefits from increasing participation in digital assets and is an investment in the long-term health of the asset ecosystem rather than day-to-day pricing. And with revenue set to surge by 25% to 30% in fiscal year 2027, there’s a great chance for a rebound and a long-term run in this crypto growth stock.

Cloudflare Inc. ()

Market value: $80 billion Sector: Technology

and cloud networking are mission-critical infrastructure in a digital age. That makes Cloudflare’s offerings vital to the operations of almost any business. The security and networking giant has a large opportunity to expand wallet share within existing customers while continuing to win new business in the years ahead as organizations steadily migrate workloads to the cloud — including for . What’s more, the company’s recurring revenue model provides strong visibility into future performance. With expected growth rates of nearly 30% both this fiscal year and next year, NET is expanding faster than many other software companies and is a standout growth stock amid long-term digital transformation megatrends.

First Solar Inc. ()

Market value: $28 billion Sector: Technology

First Solar is more than just an company. It’s one of the most strategically important manufacturers in the U.S., providing rare domestic capacity outside of China’s otherwise dominant solar supply chains with a vertically integrated manufacturing model. It’s also an indirect player in the artificial intelligence revolution as demand for utility-scale solar generation continues to expand as a way to fuel growing energy demand from . Shares can be volatile, but they’re up 52% in the past 12 months.

MercadoLibre Inc. ()

Market value: $80 billion Sector: Consumer discretionary

Often described as the Amazon and PayPal of Latin America rolled into one, this e-commerce leader has the market share and digital payments footprint to propel it in this important growth market. While the digital infrastructure of the U.S. and Europe is well established, Latin America continues to build out its e-commerce, payments, logistics, lending and financial services arms — and MELI is at the center of it all, with dominant positions across many of the region’s largest markets, including Brazil and Argentina. With almost 40% revenue growth projected in 2026 and another 25% in the next fiscal year, MercadoLibre is an example of a growth stock with a lot of room left to run.

Microsoft Corp. ()

Market value: $2.9 trillion Sector: Technology

The most diversified available, Microsoft combines the promise of future growth in this age of AI alongside established cloud computing, enterprise software and gaming business lines. Despite its already mammoth market value, it offers the prospect of 17% sales growth this year and next on top of a dominant current footprint. Microsoft has successfully transformed itself from a traditional productivity software provider into one of the world’s leading tech firms, with its Azure cloud platform in the No. 2 spot behind Amazon Web Services. This leadership position makes it ripe for efficiencies and supplemental growth thanks to AI services, and the deep pockets of Microsoft make it hard to bet against it in the race for digital dominance.

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Nvidia Corp. ()

Market value: $4.9 trillion Sector: Technology

Yeah, yeah, Nvidia feels played out to many investors after a tremendous run of almost 1,100% in the past five years. Still, Nvidia is the most important company in the tech sector for good reason, thanks to demand for accelerated computing power in AI, , autonomous systems, cryptocurrency mining and other cutting-edge applications. The company has consistently expanded into new markets while maintaining leadership, and investors have bid up its shares for good reason as revenue continues to grow at phenomenal rates. Case in point: Fiscal-year 2027 features 80% revenue growth projections, showing that the best is yet to come for this high-tech standout.

Palantir Technologies Inc. ()

Market value: $310 billion Sector: Technology

While many are based on long-term hopes, Palantir is one of the few software companies that is directly monetizing AI at scale right now. As for the future, however, there’s still plenty of growth thanks to government contracts, and growing enterprise adoption rates — setting up PLTR to strengthen its position even further. The company specializes in advanced data analytics and software that helps organizations make better operational decisions in complex environments. As organizations continue investing in data-driven operations and AI-enabled workflows, Palantir appears positioned to remain a major beneficiary. That’s evidenced by a stunning 75% revenue growth rate for 2026, which drops to “only” 45% or so in 2027.

Shopify Inc. ()

Market value: $139 billion Sector: Technology

Shopify is a company that provides the core infrastructure for online commerce, which is the go-to way modern consumers expect to spend their cash. Thanks in part to trends that include cashless transactions and “omnichannel” sales models that mix brick-and-mortar with online deals, there is almost no company that can succeed without e-commerce integration in 2026. That means SHOP is a play on the broader spending infrastructure of the global economy, and it benefits regardless of which merchants or brands succeed in the decade to come. With steady growth rates of above 20% in the coming years, the company continues to onboard new customers. And with a recurring revenue model through its support and software offerings, those new customers will likely stick for the long haul.

Vertiv Holdings Co. ()

Market value: $111 billion Sector: Industrials

A “second-order” investment on AI, Vertiv provides the critical infrastructure that powers modern data centers, including cooling systems, power management equipment and related technologies. That means Vertiv benefits from AI spending without competing directly in or in proprietary software models like ChatGPT, Copilot or Claude. As organizations continue investing in AI, cloud computing and digital infrastructure, Vertiv stands out as a compelling indirect way to participate in one of the most transformative technology trends of the decade. With five-year returns that rival red-hot chipmaker Nvidia, this is decidedly more than a sleepy industrial stock with HVAC expertise. And looking forward, revenue expansion is predicted at rates of 25% to 30% for the next few years — hinting there is more growth to come.

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For example, Alphabet Inc. (ticker: , ) recently announced plans to raise $84 billion through a combination of an at-the-market stock offering and convertible preferred securities. Not to be outdone, Meta Platforms Inc. () has reportedly weighed similar financing options.

In many respects, the current AI buildout resembles the telecom infrastructure boom that occurred during the dot-com era. During that period, enormous sums were invested into fiber optic networks, data transmission infrastructure and telecommunications capacity. Those investments ultimately proved valuable to the economy and helped lay the foundation for today’s internet.

However, investors who bought into many telecom stocks at peak valuations often faced years before breaking even as excessive optimism gave way to disappointing returns. Contrarian investors looking to avoid some of the current AI enthusiasm may instead find comfort in a different corner of the market: mature with decades-long records of dividend growth.

In particular, S&P Global maintains several indexes dedicated to these firms. The first is the S&P 500 Dividend Aristocrats Index, which includes only S&P 500 constituents that have raised their dividends for at least 25 consecutive years and weights them equally. An even more exclusive benchmark is the S&P Dividend Monarchs Index, which draws from the broader S&P 1500 universe and requires a minimum of 50 consecutive years of dividend increases.

Investors should remember that dividends are not free money. While reinvested dividends can contribute significantly to total returns, they also create taxable events in many accounts.

Even so, companies that have consistently increased their dividends through events such as the dot-com crash, the 2008 financial crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic may demonstrate qualities that long-term investors value, including resilient balance sheets, disciplined capital allocation, durable cash flows and prudent management teams.

In an era where many mega-cap technology companies are directing growing amounts of cash toward AI and, in some cases, raising dilutive capital to support those ambitions, overweighting stalwart businesses that prioritize returning cash directly to shareholders may offer an appealing alternative.

Here are seven of the best Dividend King stocks to buy and hold forever, each of which has raised payouts annually for at least 50 consecutive years:

Johnson & Johnson ()

“On average, the Dividend Monarchs have increased their dividends for 56 straight years,” says Dave Mazza, CEO at Roundhill Investments. One particular standout is giant Johnson & Johnson, which announced its 64th consecutive annual dividend increase in April 2026. The firm hiked the payout by 3.1% from $1.30 per share to $1.34 per share, currently representing a 2.3% dividend yield.

“As a group, the Dividend Monarchs exhibit higher return on equity than the broader market, coupled with lower earnings variability,” Mazza says. Characteristics of this nature have historically translated to lower share price volatility and improved drawdowns. Johnson & Johnson is particularly resilient given it is one of two U.S.-listed companies with a coveted AAA credit rating, alongside Microsoft Corp. ().

Abbott Laboratories ()

“Healthcare companies tend to dominate the list because they possess predictable earnings growth, with profits that are not overly economically sensitive,” says James Lewis, portfolio manager and senior equity research analyst at Bartlett Wealth Management. “Thus, with a stable earnings stream, these companies are willing to allocate capital through dividends and grow the rate of that payment.”

Abbott Laboratories is a great example, having declared 399 consecutive quarterly dividend payments since 1924 while increasing the payout for 51 consecutive years. The firm is significantly less volatile than the S&P 500, with a five-year beta of 0.6. Down 28.8% year-to-date as of June 10, as the healthcare sector remains out of favor, the stock now trades at a reasonable 16.3 times forward price-to-earnings.

Procter & Gamble Co. ()

“Procter & Gamble boasts a diversified operating model across five product segments, 10 product categories, operations in 70 nations, and sales in over 180 countries and territories,” says Michael Ashley Schulman, partner at Cerity Partners. The average investor will likely find many products from this company in their household, such as Gillette razors, Tide detergent and Bounty paper towels.

“Procter & Gamble’s competitive strengths lie in its diverse portfolio, which provides stability and caters to a wide range of needs; its massive scale, which translates to better deals with suppliers and retailers; and its brand recognition with consumers,” Schulman says. This can be seen with the company’s ample 23% operating margin. Procter & Gamble recently increased its dividend for the 70th time by 3%.

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Colgate-Palmolive Co. ()

Consolidation across the sector has produced several long-running rivalries between dominant brands, many of which are also Dividend Kings. Competing directly against Procter & Gamble in multiple categories is Colgate-Palmolive. While best known for its oral care products, the company also owns a diverse portfolio spanning pet nutrition, personal care and home care.

Colgate-Palmolive is one of America’s oldest dividend-paying companies, having paid uninterrupted dividends since 1895 and increased its payout annually for 63 consecutive years. The stock currently yields 2.4% on an annualized basis. Over the past five years, Colgate-Palmolive has recorded a monthly beta of roughly 0.3, making it significantly less volatile than the S&P 500.

Coca-Cola Co. ()

“Coca-Cola benefits from a category where consumers are brand aware — that is, over the years, they have developed products that resonate with preferences,” Lewis says. “It also operates in categories where store brands have not been able to gain market share due to poor quality.” In February 2026, Coca-Cola raised its quarterly payout by 4% to 53 cents per share, marking its 64th dividend increase.

Today, Coca-Cola operates more as a brand owner, marketer and concentrate supplier than a beverage manufacturer. The company sells syrup to regional bottling partners that handle production and distribution within exclusive territories. This structure offloads much of the operational risk while allowing Coca-Cola to focus on higher-margin activities and capital allocation at the strategic level.

PepsiCo Inc. ()

Competing directly against Coca-Cola in the beverage market, PepsiCo is also a Dividend King. In February 2026, the company announced a 4% increase to its annual dividend beginning with the June 2026 payment. The increase marked PepsiCo’s 54th consecutive year of annual dividend growth. PepsiCo currently pays a 4.1% dividend yield, well above the consumer staples sector average.

However, PepsiCo’s stock has been largely flat year to date in 2026, following a challenging 2025 market environment. Management noted that repeated price increases had begun to weigh on consumer demand, prompting the company to slash costs for some products in its snack division. That shift has helped support a rebound in sales volumes while stabilizing investor sentiment toward the stock.

Walmart Inc. ()

Walmart is a relatively recent addition to the Dividend Kings list. In February 2026, Walmart announced an annual cash dividend of $0.99 per share, a 5% increase from the prior year’s $0.94 payout and its 53rd consecutive annual dividend increase. Despite operating in the low-margin retail industry, where operating margins are typically thin, Walmart has leveraged its enormous scale effectively.

The company currently generates a return on equity of 24%, a sign of strong capital allocation and management execution. “Walmart is the poster child of an old-economy company who has pivoted, and it is showing up in its profitability and growth,” says Nancy Tengler, CEO and chief investment officer of Laffer Tengler Investments. “I continue to like the company as an omni-channel, tech-driven retailer.”

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“I constantly craved more food, and my sugar cravings were back too.”

“I stayed on for three months, titrating all the way up, but it had absolutely zero effect on my weight. I didn’t lose a single pound in three months.”

He has since switched back to and now feels more motivated with decisions about his food and health.

Stories like Jain’s are a reminder that while have transformed obesity treatment and weight loss, they aren’t magic or universally effective. Everyone’s biology, underlying health and lifestyle can influence results.

Read on to learn why GLP-1 medications like Wegovy or Ozempic work for some and not others, reasons why you’re not losing weight on a GLP-1, weight loss plateaus, GLP-1 resistant genes and how your GLP-1 routine could be affecting your weight loss results.

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What Are GLP-1 Medications?

GLP-1 agonists are a group of medications that support the GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide) hormone. This naturally occurring gut hormone serves as a chemical messenger for three key roles in the body:

— Lowering blood sugar

— Slowing digestion

— Signaling fullness to the brain as you eat

There are two main types of GLP-1 medications in 2026:

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The Truth About the GLP-1 Weight Loss Journey

It’s hard to escape the GLP-1 buzz right now. From celebrity headlines and endorsements, TikTok transformations and television commercials, GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy and have become synonymous with . And while , from obesity to diabetes to , not everyone experiences the type of dramatic weight loss results often highlighted online.

“Social media has created the impression that everyone loses massive amounts of weight on GLP-1s,” says Dr. Fernando Ovalle, a board-certified obesity medicine physician based in Orlando. “But there is a spectrum of response.”

However, even just a 5% weight reduction can produce meaningful improvements in your health, Ovalle notes.

Another important factor to consider is tolerability, Ovalle says. “Some patients cannot escalate to the most effective dose because of gastrointestinal upset, so they never fully reach the medication’s therapeutic potential.”

Are you facing a true weight plateau or just a normal pause?

You might think you are not losing weight on Wegovy or another GLP-1 drug, but there’s no need to panic just because the scale isn’t moving right now.

There is a difference between a and being a Wegovy nonresponder or nonresponsive to another GLP-1 medication. Nonresponse to a GLP-1 means you have had less than a 0.5% decrease in A1c levels (a common blood test ordered for diabetes monitoring) or weight loss of less than 5% of initial body weight after a year of GLP-1 treatment at the maximum tolerated dose.

Temporary weight loss plateau vs. true nonresponse to GLP-1 medication

Here is how to tell if you are facing a temporary plateau or a true nonresponse to a GLP-1 medication:

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Your Unique Biology and the Genetic “Glitch”

Across multiple published , GLP-1 medication nonresponse is thought to range between 10% to 25%. Interestingly, up to one-third of individuals may be hyperresponsive, according to a small published by BMJ Open. Hyperresponse was more common amongst females.

GLP-1 response and weight loss doesn’t begin or end at the same place for everyone.

“One of the biggest misconceptions about weight loss medications in general is that they should produce identical results for everyone,” Ovalle says.

Weight and is complex, and patients vary in the following, Ovalle says:

— Appetite regulation

—

— Genetics

— Metabolic adaptations

— Hunger signals

— Sleep

— Stress

— Medications

— Body composition

So it naturally follows that a weight loss medication response varies from person to person, he says.

Why some people are naturally resistant to the drug

Some people are naturally resistant to GLP-1 medications due to specific genetic variations. For example:

— Mutations in the , which can alter the shape of the GLP-1 receptor, making it harder for GLP-1 to bind and work effectively — have some type of mutation in this gene.

— Mutations in the , which causes resistance to GLP-1 working and can make standard doses significantly less effective — up to 10% of individuals may have it .

— Mutations in , which changes the shape of the GIP receptor, making response to dual agonist GLP-1s weaker

Just because someone has a mutation does that mean GLP-1s won’t work?

Not necessarily. Having a GLP-1 gene mutation does not automatically mean that a GLP-1 won’t work at all for you. Having a gene variant, such as GLP1R, PAM or GIPR could mean your GLP-1 is less effective and you need a higher dose along with other lifestyle modifications, or a mutation could make you more responsive to a GLP-1 than the average person.

Does insurance cover GLP-1 gene mutation testing?

Generally, insurance does not cover GLP-1 gene mutation testing in 2026. There are currently no Food and Drug Administration (FDA) guidelines that suggest a genetic test before trialing a GLP-1 medication. Out-of-pocket costs for genetic testing for GLP-1-related gene mutations range from $200 to $400 dollars. Alternatively, you can use a trial and error method with your medical provider to determine which GLP-1 medication is right for you.

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9 Reasons Your GLP-1 Isn’t Working

There are people who technically “respond” biologically to GLP-1s, but don’t lose as much weight as expected because of other factors, Ovalle says.

Here are nine reasons that your GLP-1 isn’t working or stopped working as effectively.

1. Changing or skipping your dose

If you are on a lower or “stepping stone” dose, you might not see much weight loss yet on your GLP-1. It usually takes at least one month to titrate up to the highest dose of a GLP-1 medication. However, some patients respond dramatically even at lower doses, while others have a much more modest effect despite reaching full dosing, Ovalle says.

If you are skipping doses due to like nausea or stomach ache, make sure to reach out to your healthcare provider so they can evaluate if you need to go down a step, wait longer to increase the dose or stop the medication altogether.

2. The impact of skipping weeks or changing your routine

Fortunately, “skipping a dose has little to no effect on your GLP1 response,” says Dr. Rami Lutfi, a medical director for bariatric and general surgery at Carrum Health in Chicago. “GLP-1s can stay in your system for one month.”

However, if you skip more than two weeks, it can lead to increased side effects like nausea and vomiting, Lutfi says. Changing your routine, like getting less sleep, more stress or changing mealtimes can yield to changes in your progress, but fluctuations in weight are normal, usually within about two to four pounds, he adds.

3. Health conditions that fight against weight loss

If you have an underlying condition, it may be fighting against your GLP-1 by impacting your metabolism or hormone response.

— Insulin resistance, including : This makes it harder for your body to regulate blood sugar, which can blunt weight loss response.

— Underactive thyroid: This slows your metabolism and makes it harder to burn calories, even with GLP-1-induced appetite suppression.

— : This can cause hormonal changes and insulin resistance that make it more difficult to lose weight.

— or : Hormonal shifts can change weight loss patterns and how fat is stored within the body.

— Sleep apnea: Poor sleep causes an increase in .

4. Food noise

is a nonmedical shorthand term for the experience of consistently thinking about what to eat next, having cravings or having a mental pull towards food, even when you may not be physically hungry.

GLP-1 medications work by reducing hunger signals in the brain, thereby decreasing food noise. If you have a very high baseline food noise, it might take longer or a higher dose for a GLP-1 for food noise to substantially decrease.

5. Everyday prescriptions might be working against you

There could be medications pushing appetite and weight in the opposite direction, Ovalle says, such as:

— Steroids: “Steroids increase appetite, fluid retention and insulin resistance,” Ovalle says.

— Psychiatric medications: “Some psychiatric medications, especially paroxetine, mirtazapine and tricyclic antidepressants like amitriptyline can increase cravings or make weight loss much harder,” Ovalle says.

— Insulin: “Diabetes medications, like can promote weight gain,” Ovalle says.

— Sulfonylureas: Sulfonylureas, like glipizide can also promote weight gain, he adds.

— Certain blood pressure medications: “Blood pressure medicines in the beta blocker class, especially older ones like metoprolol, atenolol, and propranolol, can sometimes make weight loss harder by lowering exercise tolerance, increasing fatigue or slightly reducing metabolic rate,” Ovalle says.

— Allergy medications: “Some older, sedating allergy medications in the antihistamine class such as Benadryl may increase appetite or fatigue in certain patients,” Ovalle says.

Don’t stop taking a medication just because you think your GLP-1 isn’t working without asking your physician to review your medications. In many cases, there is a more weight-neutral alternative in that same medication category that will be more conducive to your GLP-1 regimen, Ovalle says.

6. Liquid calories and the snacking trap

Unintentional liquid calories from a single sugary coffee (up to 500 calories), a meal-replacement smoothie (300–1,000 calories) or alcohol (100-300 calories or more) can quickly erase the calorie deficit required for weight loss. It takes a calorie deficit of about 3,500 calories to lose one pound.

While these foods are not “off-limits,” it’s all about a healthy balance.

7. How high stress and poor sleep steal your progress

Chronic stress raises , which can increase appetite and cravings for high-calorie foods. Cortisol also encourages the body to store fat, particularly around the midsection.

Inadequate sleep disrupts hunger hormones, like ghrelin and leptin, which control hunger and satiety, respectively, making it harder to feel full and easier to overeat. Poor sleep and stress can heavily impede GLP-1 weight loss.

8. The accidental metabolism slowdown

While on a GLP-1, it’s also easy to undereat due to the lack of food noise and hunger suppression. This causes a decrease in metabolism.

“This is when caloric intake is at an extreme low it signals your body to go into starvation mode. This causes your metabolic rate to slow down to conserve energy and leads to a stall in weight loss, and even in some scenarios, weight gain,” Lutfi says.

“When this is suspected, I ask patients to keep a food log. I have had scenarios where patients were under the impression that they were consuming more than they thought. Doing a food journal helps identify areas of change and allows the patient to self-reflect on what they have been consuming,” he adds.

In addition, weight loss from GLP-1s often causes a , which lowers resting metabolic weight, meaning you need fewer calories to maintain your weight, and so weight loss progression can stall.

9. Taking the wrong GLP-1

Since everyone is different, certain GLP-1 medications could be more effective for you than others. In some cases, what looks like a poor response might be a sign that a different medication or formulation would be more appropriate.

Although Jain did not have much progress on Wegovy, when he took Zepbound, he was consistently losing 6 to 8 pounds a month, and his labs were improving according to his medical provider. This is why it is important to work with a trustworthy medical provider who can make those adjustments with you over time as needed.

Practical Steps to Take If the Scale Won’t Budge

If the scale won’t budge, fill out this questionnaire and show it to your medical provider.

1. Have I kept a detailed food and weight log for at least three weeks? (Bring a copy to your next appointment)

2. Am I taking my medication consistently at the exact prescribed dose and schedule?

3. Has my weight truly stalled for more than three consecutive weeks?

4. Am I experiencing significant side effects like nausea?

5. Have high stress levels or disruptions to my sleep routine occurred recently?

6. Am I taking any new prescriptions (like steroids or beta-blockers) or supplements?

7. Am I dealing with “food noise” that disrupts my day?

8. Have I received any new medical diagnosis or abnormal labs or imaging?

After you have filled out the above questionnaire, make an appointment to talk to the medical provider who prescribed the GLP-1 to go through your responses. They may recommend changing your dose, checking your thyroid or changing to a new GLP-1. In other cases, your provider may make a lifestyle recommendation, Lutfi says, such as:

— Consuming 80-100 grams of protein a day

— Drinking 64 oz. of water

— Getting 7-9 hours of sleep per night

— Increasing physical activity and exercise, including strength training

Frequently Asked Questions

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. The Surgeon General also recommended warning labels on alcohol drinks highlighting this risk. And now, a new, government-commissioned study published on June 8 concludes that the health risks of alcohol start at a single drink a day.

The report, published in the , found that health risks, including the risk of death, begin to increase even in small quantities of alcohol consumption, as little as one drink per day. This led the researchers to conclude that alcohol guidance in the United States should recommend that both men and women not partake in more than one drink per day.

Current guidelines, in comparison, encourage using moderation when drinking — advising “less alcohol for better overall health” — and recommend men drink two drinks or less per day and women one drink or less.

The new report was originally commissioned under the Biden administration as they worked on the , with some of the research . According to the researchers involved in the study, the findings from their study were sidelined and ultimately not included in the guidelines released under the Trump administration.

Despite alcohol being the third leading preventable cause of cancer in the U.S., alcohol-related cancer deaths cut lives short by an average of 15 years. Yet, most people remain unaware of the danger. Only 45% of Americans recognize alcohol as a cancer risk, compared to 91% for radiation exposure, 89% for tobacco and 81% for asbestos.

If you’ve ever assumed that might be beneficial, new research suggests it may be time to take a closer look at alcohol’s impact on health.

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Is Alcohol a Carcinogen?

A carcinogen is anything that can cause cancer, the second leading cause of death in the U.S. According to Dr. Michael Siegel, a professor at Tufts University School of Medicine, alcohol isn’t just a carcinogen, it’s a strong one.

“It is in the same category as asbestos, benzene, arsenic, radiation, tobacco, vinyl chloride and plutonium,” he explains.

And it’s not just heavy drinking that raises the risk. Even moderate or light alcohol consumption can increase cancer risk, says Siegel. Evidence shows that the risk of certain cancers, like breast, mouth and throat cancers, can increase with as little as one or fewer drinks per day, according to the . According to the U.S. Surgeon General’s report, alcohol use increases the risk of at least seven types of cancer: , colorectal, esophageal, liver, mouth, throat and voice box.

When you drink alcohol, your body breaks it down into a chemical called acetaldehyde, which is a known carcinogen, explains Dr. Nishan Tchekmedyian, deputy physician-in-chief at City of Hope in Orange County, California.

“Acetaldehyde can damage DNA and may lead to tumor growth, as well as cell and liver damage,” he says.

There are other ways that alcohol causes cancer. It produces harmful molecules that increase . It also changes hormone levels, including estrogen, which can increase the risk of Finally, alcohol can absorb toxic chemicals, like tobacco smoke, making it easier for them to enter the body and increase the risk of mouth and throat cancers.

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Health Effects of Drinking Alcohol

The effects of drinking alcohol daily might not be felt immediately, says Tchekmedyian. “In general, the more alcohol a person drinks, the higher their risk of cancer, and evidence suggests that the amount consumed over time may be the most important factor.”

“Daily alcohol drinking can take a serious toll,” says Dr. Raj Dasgupta, an associate professor at the University of California, Riverside School of Medicine and chief medical advisor for Garage Gym Reviews.

It’s important to note that the harmful effects of alcohol go beyond increasing cancer risk and aren’t just limited to daily or chronic drinking. Even a single bout of heavy drinking can seriously impact your health in various ways.

Brain

Alcohol disrupts brain communication, affecting , behavior, thinking and coordination. It can kill or damage brain cells, and while acute injury may not be harmful, repeated daily consumption can lead to neurological impairment, says Siegel.

Heart

Drinking heavily over time or on one occasion can damage the heart, leading to issues like weakened heart muscles, irregular heartbeat, and stroke.

Digestive system

Alcohol causes liver injury, which is reversible and transient, but not if you continue to drink large amounts chronically, says Siegel. Heavy drinking can lead to liver-related conditions like , alcoholic hepatitis, fibrosis and cirrhosis. It can also weaken the gut lining and disrupt . Alcohol affects the pancreas by triggering toxic substances that may lead to pancreatitis, a painful condition that causes swelling and impairs digestion.

Immune system

Alcohol , says Dasgupta. Chronic drinkers have a higher risk of infections like and tuberculosis. Even one episode of heavy drinking can lower immunity for up to 24 hours.

Other affects of drinking alcohol

Drinking alcohol increases your risk for mental health issues like and . It also increases the risk of dependency, accidents and strained relationships over time, adds Dasgupta.

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How Much Alcohol Is Too Much?

Now that you know the effects of alcohol, especially with chronic drinking, you might be wondering how much is too much.

First, some people should avoid alcohol altogether. This includes those under the age of 21,or those planning to become pregnant, individuals taking medications that interact with alcohol, those who experience facial flushing or dizziness with alcohol and people with health conditions like high blood pressure and to name a few.

For healthy adults who choose to drink and do not fall into these groups, the U.S. Dietary Guidelines suggest that risks may be minimized by limiting intake to one drink or less per day for women and two drinks or less per day for men. This difference exists because women generally process alcohol differently, leading to higher blood alcohol levels and increased health risks, even with less alcohol, explains Dasgupta.

It’s also important to understand what counts as a drink. In the U.S., a “standard drink” contains 14 grams, or about 0.6 fluid ounces, of pure ethanol. Examples include 12 fluid ounces of regular beer, five fluid ounces of table wine and 1.5 fluid ounces of spirits.

However, Dasgupta points out that “no type of alcohol is truly ‘healthy,’ but some choices are less risky than others.” Drinks with lower alcohol content and fewer or additives might reduce certain risks, but “drinking less overall is what really matters.”

Still, the guideline is no longer tenable, according to Siegel, given the finding that moderate drinking increases cancer risk. “The new recommendation will likely be for people to avoid alcohol to reduce cancer risk.”

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Are There Any Benefits to Drinking Alcohol?

“There is some evidence that drinking alcohol may reduce the risk of , but the evidence is conflicting, and more recent studies have failed to find any protective effects of moderate drinking on heart health,” says Siegel.

Moreover, Dasgupta notes the same benefits can usually be achieved through healthier habits like and a , without the downsides.

Many people believe alcohol helps them relax and cope with stress. While it may provide temporary relief from emotional discomfort, research shows that drinking alcohol to manage stress can have the opposite effect over time. Drinking to cope with stress may temporarily reduce negative feelings, but it tends to intensify negative emotional states between drinking episodes. These changes can lead to a cycle where alcohol is consumed more frequently to manage emotions, increasing the risk of dependence and other negative health effects.

Instead of relying on alcohol to cope with stress, there are . Regular physical activity, , practices and establishing a support system are proven methods to improve mental well-being and reduce stress.

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How About Red Wine?

You’ve probably heard that red wine is good for you because of its like resveratrol, but the idea may not be as beneficial as it seems.

“Cancer risk factors don’t discriminate between types of alcoholic beverages,” emphasizes Dr. Tchekmedyian. “While some evidence suggests potential health benefits associated with red wine, the evidence is murky.”

Wine, particularly red wine, is often included in the , which is well known for its health benefits, including and a lower risk of disease. However, lifestyle habits in Mediterranean regions differ from those in the U.S., and you don’t need to drink wine or any alcohol to reap the benefits of this eating pattern.

There is little evidence that any particular type of alcoholic beverage is better for your health, notes Dr. Siegel. “The body doesn’t know where the alcohol came from and treats it the same, whether from beer, wine or liquor.”

Dasgupta adds that you can get plenty of antioxidants from nutritious foods like fruits, and nuts without the added risks. For example, resveratrol can be found in grapes, peanuts, , cucumber, tomato, red cabbage and spinach.

What to Do If You Think Alcohol Is Affecting Your Life

“If you’re concerned about your alcohol intake, I encourage you to speak with your doctor about your drinking habits. Your care team can come up with ways to adjust your alcohol intake to best benefit your health,” advises Tchekmedyian.

Many tried-and-true programs can help people reduce or stop drinking, like Alcoholics Anonymous and similar 12-step programs, adds Siegel.

“Alcohol is so normalized in our culture that it’s easy to overlook its risks. The truth is, any reduction in drinking can have positive effects on your health,” highlights Dr. Dasgupta. “And if you choose not to drink at all, that’s not just okay; it’s a really healthy choice.”

If you think your alcohol intake is affecting your life negatively, it’s important to seek help. Any of these symptoms may be a cause for concern:

— Drinking more or for longer than you intended

— Thinking about drinking so much that it’s hard to focus on anything else

— Drinking despite causing issues in relationships, work or school

— Getting into situations while or after drinking that increase your risk of harm

— Drinking even though it’s making you feel depressed, or adding to another health problem

— Experiencing withdrawal symptoms like trouble , restlessness or nausea when alcohol effects wear off

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Navigating through this sea of information is crucial, especially for beneficiaries considering the pros and cons of original Medicare and .

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What Are the Parts of Medicare?

Medicare consists of that provide a unique level of coverage. Each one plays an important role in giving beneficiaries comprehensive health insurance, from hospital and physician care to drug coverage and other benefits.

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What Is Medigap?

, also known as Medigap, is extra insurance that you can purchase from a private health insurance company to help cover the “gaps” of original Medicare. After all, it’s impossible to predict every medical need with certainty, and because original Medicare only covers 80% of costs after the deductible and lacks an out-of-pocket limit, medical bills can add up. Medigap plans are designed to help cover the 20% you are responsible for, including:

— Routine costs, such as copays and

— Major expenses, such as a long-term

Types of Medigap plans

There are

available in most states, identified by letters: A, B, C, D, F, G, K, L, M and N.

By law, each lettered plan offers the same core benefits regardless of the insurance provider. However, the costs can vary between insurance companies, so it’s important to compare prices for the same lettered plan to ensure you get the best deal.

Keep in mind that Medigap monthly premiums are in addition to your regular Medicare premiums.

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Can You Have Both Medicare Advantage and Medigap?

No, you cannot have both a Medicare Advantage plan and a Medigap plan. However, you can mix and match either option with other plans.

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Who Is Eligible for Medigap Insurance?

To be eligible for a Medigap plan, certain criteria must be met. This includes:

— Age requirement. Those who are age 65 and older qualify. Federal law does not require companies to sell Medigap plans to those who qualify for Medicare and are , but some states do.

— Enrollment in original Medicare. You must for parts A and B to qualify.

— Residency. While each lettered plan provides the same benefits, that doesn’t mean that each one is offered in your state. Plans offered in Massachusetts, Minnesota and Wisconsin have different standards of coverage.

Benefits of Medigap Insurance

While the monthly premiums can be expensive depending on the plan selected and on your health, they can save you money in the long run.

— Parts A and B coinsurance coverage. No one likes to feel nickel-and-dimed by smaller charges, such as coinsurance or copays. If you need or a long hospital stay, these plans can give you peace of mind knowing that you won’t have large and potentially financially crippling medical bills coming due.

— Predictable healthcare costs. Medigap plans also offer the benefit of predictability in your healthcare costs, making it easier to budget for medical expenses.

— Renewable coverage. Medigap plans are renewable as long as you pay the premiums, providing lifetime coverage.

— Foreign travel coverage. Medigap plans often include coverage for foreign emergencies, which original Medicare , giving you additional protection if you travel internationally.

Choosing a Medigap Plan

Once you have found the lettered plan whose benefits best fit your needs, it’s time to do a little comparison shopping.

“No matter what plan you are considering, exploring plan details and speaking with providers and others who have already purchased the plan you are considering is worthwhile,” says Joe Baker, president emeritus of the Medicare Rights Center, a New York City-based nonprofit that helps older adults understand Medicare benefits.

The most comprehensive Medicare supplement insurance plan is , which covers an extensive array of benefits. However, Plan F has not been available to people new to Medicare since January 1, 2020. Individuals who were eligible for Medicare as of that date but not yet enrolled may still be able to buy one of these plans, and individuals who enrolled before January 1, 2020, have been allowed to keep their plan since the rule change.

New members who are not eligible for Plan F may want to consider . This Medigap plan also offers comprehensive coverage, though it does not cover the deductible (which Plan F does). It is currently the most popular Medigap option, according to .

When to Enroll in a Medigap Plan

The best time to purchase a plan is the six-month period after your 65th and when you enroll in parts A and B. This is known as your Medigap open enrollment period, and unlike the yearly , this only happens once. During this time, you can buy any policy available at preferred pricing regardless of preexisting health conditions.

Changing your Medigap coverage outside of this period can result in losing your preferred status. There are some exceptions, and Medicare.gov provides an to check if you have a legal right to switch or drop Medigap policies. Outside of this six-month window, insurers may charge higher premiums or decline coverage based on factors such as preexisting conditions or age.

Bottom Line

Signing up for a Medigap plan can be a smart financial move to help shield you from large medical bills. Additionally, Medigap plans offer the flexibility to choose any or hospital that accepts Medicare, without the need for referrals.

Medigap policies are standardized, meaning the benefits of each plan type are the same across all insurance companies to ensure members receive consistent coverage regardless of the healthcare provider.

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Even as her , she still connected with the rituals of mealtime, which represented home, family, tradition and normalcy.

For people with dementia, food remains deeply connected to identity, but the simple act of eating can become a cognitive minefield: Because senses are altered, the smells, sights and texture of food can become unappetizing.

Physically, swallowing difficulty poses life-threatening danger, and utensils require motor planning that may already be lost.

Dedicated , chefs and other nutrition experts at modern memory care facilities are devising ingenious innovations to make mealtime less frustrating and more comforting for their residents.

These culinary interventions adapt everything from the memory care dining environment to practical tools for consuming food, which in turn helps residents to get the nutrition they need to stay healthy and to remain connected to their past through the fond memories food evokes.

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The Science of Sensory Issues: Why Eating Is Hard for Dementia Patients

Dementia affects more than memory. It fundamentally alters how the brain processes sensory input, including sight, taste, smell and touch.

— Visual processing: People with dementia often have problems seeing contrast, which can make distinguishing food difficult: For example, cauliflower or mashed potatoes on a white plate on a white tablecloth can blend together and become hard to see. In addition, the loss of depth perception and other vision changes can make it difficult for people with dementia to see and handle food.

— Flavor profiles: Food may not smell or taste the same due to olfactory system changes, which makes food less appealing. This can lead to a difficulty registering any taste at all, causing a lack of interest in eating, or it can trigger cravings for high-contrast flavors (for example, craving very sweet foods, which can be unhealthy). As a result, a person with dementia may suddenly develop new food preferences or reject foods that were liked in the past.

— Texture aversions: When the brain misinterprets how food feels in the mouth, familiar textures like crunchy or sticky items can suddenly seem unappetizing or even inedible. This sensory disconnect does more than ruin a meal — it poses genuine health risks, including malnutrition (from rejecting meals) and choking hazards (from being unable to thoroughly chew and swallow food with certain textures).

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The Progressive Stages of Dementia and Eating Habits

As dementia progresses, introduces new challenges for patients and .

“Mealtime can be challenging particularly during the middle and late stages of the disease,” says Elizabeth Edgerly, vice president of care and support at the Alzheimer’s Association.

Here’s what to expect:

Early stage: Dementia’s impact on executive function at mealtime

In the early stages, a person with dementia may struggle to follow a recipe or sequence the basic steps of eating. These rely heavily on executive function — the brain’s ability to plan, organize and execute tasks. When this cognitive skill declines, even the most familiar routines can become confusing, though learning can help.

“There can be difficulty simply knowing how to pick up a fork or what to do next,” Edgerly says.

These challenges are often compounded when a single meal requires multiple “plans” for eating different items on the same plate. Navigating various food types simultaneously adds extra strain to an already taxing process.

“Requiring someone to switch between utensils and finger foods can create unnecessary cognitive demands,” explains Jill Ladaa, an Alzheimer’s and dementia care gerontologist at Brookdale Senior Living.

Middle stage: Managing restlessness and memory loss as dementia progresses

As the condition advances, new behavioral challenges can further disrupt nutrition. Restlessness often causes residents to pace or , making it difficult for them to sit at a table long enough to finish a meal. also distort their relationship with food.

“They can forget that they’ve eaten or believe they’ve already eaten when they haven’t,” Edgerly says.

In addition to memory shifts, a person’s appetite can become highly inconsistent. They may refuse food during scheduled mealtimes, only to experience intense hunger later in the day when fresh meals are not as readily available.

These unpredictable eating habits frequently result in significant caloric deficits. Without intervention, this lack of steady nutrition can trigger serious physical complications, including weight loss,and a .

Late stage: Dysphagia and swallowing difficulties

In the later stages of dementia, many individuals develop dysphagia, or severe difficulty swallowing. This occurs due to a neurological breakdown of the “chew-swallow” reflex, where the brain and body essentially forget how to perform these once-automatic functions.

Dysphagia is a life-threatening condition that makes ordinary eating and drinking hazardous. When a person cannot swallow properly, they have a high risk of aspiration, a condition in which food or fluid enters the lungs instead of the stomach.

These swallowing difficulties can lead to several health complications, including:

— Choking: Difficult textures become immediately dangerous to ingest.

— Aspiration : Food or bacteria in the lungs can trigger serious, life-threatening pulmonary infections.

— Malnutrition and : If the discomfort or fear of swallowing causes a person to avoid eating or drinking entirely, they stop nourishing their bodies with the essential nutrients — leading to rapid health decline.

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Culinary Innovation: How Memory Care Communities Adapt

Fortunately, many today recognize these eating challenges for residents and have created to keep mealtime safe while incorporating food preferences and even favorite meals.

“People are individuals first, and understanding what enables each person to be successful at mealtime is essential,” Ladaa says.

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1. Beyond puree: The rise of visual molding

Traditionally, modifying meals for seniors with dysphagia meant serving indistinct scoops of pureed food. Beyond looking unappetizing, these featureless textures can be highly confusing for memory care residents who can no longer recognize or know exactly what they are eating.

One solution is visual food molding, which uses molds to make pureed food look like its original form, such as pureed carrots shaped like a glazed baby carrot.

This creative yet simple modification achieves two important goals:

— Preserves dignity: It allows residents to enjoy a meal that looks natural and respectful.

— Stimulates appetite: Recognizable visual cues trigger the brain’s hunger response, encouraging them to eat.

In fact, the most effective approaches combine clinical science with creativity, such as the International Dysphagia Diet Standardization Initiative (IDDSI).

Now widely adopted by and across the U.S., this global framework ensures safe, consistent food textures for residents with dysphagia.

By precisely categorizing food textures into specific IDDSI levels, facilities ensure that each resident consumes only the consistencies that are safe for their specific condition, drastically reducing dysphagia-related risks.

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2. Gourmet finger foods and independent dining

Another way memory care residents can maintain their confidence when eating is through “handheld dining” programs: serving nutrient-dense finger foods for dementia patients when utensils become confusing or too hard to manipulate.

“If a resident is having difficulty holding utensils, employees will shift toward handheld options, like sandwiches, that enable residents to eat independently and with dignity,” says Justin Guest, vice president of Engage Life and resident engagement at Atria Senior Living.

In addition, residents who prefer to pace can move around without the frustration of having to use silverware.

However, the use of utensils should be preserved as long as possible.

“Continuing to use utensils when appropriate helps maintain a sense of autonomy and normalcy,” Ladaa says. “At that point (when residents can no longer use utensils), thoughtfully prepared finger foods can provide an important advantage, allowing residents to maximize nutritional intake by reducing frustration and barriers to eating.”

3. High-contrast tableware and adaptive tools

To accommodate visual processing changes that make seeing food difficult, many memory care facilities have switched from traditional white plates to a bright color, such as red, which research has shown to be effective in increasing food and liquid intake among people with dementia.

In fact, the 2004 landmark “” demonstrated that patients with who ate off high-contrast red plates ate 25% more food and drank more than 80% more liquid than those using standard white dishes.

“We use colorful, contrasting dishware in all of our Memory Care neighborhoods because the visual contrast helps distinguish the food from the plate — and the plate from the table,” Guest says.

In addition, using other — like weighted silverware for tremors, specialized utensils that are easier to grip and nosey cups that have a U-shaped cut-out for the nose in the rim to allow people to drink comfortably without tilting their head back — can help dementia patients eat better and more safely.

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Creating a Therapeutic Dining Environment

When encouraging memory care residents to eat, what’s in the room around them is just as important as what’s on their plates.

“We adapt the dining environment to try to make mealtime calm, familiar and easy to navigate,” Ladaa says. “Adaptations can help minimize confusion and anxiety while promoting engagement, independence and nutritional intake.”

Acoustic management

The sounds of clinking silverware, loud appliances, background television and even loud talking can cause a “,” making residents feel agitated.

To help reduce the noise often associated with a busy kitchen, memory care facilities often prepare and plate food before bringing the dishes out to residents. Additionally, dining rooms are furnished with soft materials — such as carpeting, drapes and cushions — to absorb sound.

The power of scent

Memory care facilities can use ambient scents, such as the smell of bread baking, to help trigger the brain’s hunger cues. Adding visual as well as olfactory cues can also trigger hunger and evoke fond feelings.

“Rather than give residents a written menu, we bring platters around to each resident so they can see and smell their options,” Guest says. “For someone with , seeing and smelling a plate of spaghetti and meatballs can trigger a memory, reminding them that they love it.”

Small-group seating

Intimate, consistent seating charts and mimic a family dinner rather than an overwhelming cafeteria. Seating residents with their friends brings mealtime back to a and has been shown to encourage better eating.

“A thoughtfully designed environment can enable residents to focus on the meal, connect with others and experience greater success at mealtime,” Ladaa says.

What to Look For: 9 Questions for Memory Care Facilities

When for your loved one, you want to make sure they will be well taken care of, which includes getting the nutrition and emotional comfort of mealtime.

Here is a checklist for families to ask when :

1. How do you handle “food strikes” or refusal to eat?

2. Are your chefs certified in dysphagia safety?

3. Do you adhere to IDDSI standards for food texture?

4. Do you offer “anytime dining” or are meals strictly scheduled?

5. Can you accommodate culturally specific diets or family recipes?

6. What adaptive technology (such as special plates or cups) is utilized in your dining room when appropriate?

7. Do you adapt meals for each individual’s specific needs?

8. Do you offer finger foods when appropriate?

9. How has your dining room been designed with residents in mind?

Bottom Line

For those with dementia, eating is important for mental as well as physical health to foster a sense of safety, familiarity and comfort at the table.

“We often find that a specific meal, or simply smelling a certain dish, can unlock memories that help a resident feel grounded and connected,” Guest says.

A facility’s commitment to culinary innovation is a key indicator of high-quality memory care.

“Sharing a meal is one of life’s simplest and deepest joys, and while dementia can take so much, those moments of connection often remain, even in later stages,” Edgerly says. “When we meet people where they are, mealtimes can still be moments of dignity, connection and even joy — not just a task, but a meaningful part of the day.”

FAQs

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What will this mean for consumers who enjoy earning points and miles? Get the details, and see what industry insiders have to say.

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All We Know About the Settlement

with merchants over the amounts they were charging to process payments, which would finally wrap up litigation that dates back to 2005.

But another item included in the settlement involves a change to the longstanding “honor all cards” rule. This is the practice by which merchants have to accept all cards with a Visa and/or Mastercard logo — or none at all. If this version of the settlement goes through, merchants would have more flexibility regarding which cards they accept.

Instead, cards would be classified into three main categories: standard, rewards and commercial. Then, merchants could choose which card categories they want to accept or add surcharges to cover higher-cost cards. Because premium rewards cards (the ones that usually come with an and souped-up benefits) typically charge higher interchange fees, those cardholders may be turned away or asked to cover an extra fee.

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What It Might Mean for Cardholders

If — and that’s a big if — this settlement is approved and becomes official policy, merchants may choose not to accept rewards cards or might charge those customers more. This could impact a broad range of popular cards, such as the , the and the .

Considering that premium cardholders tend to be higher spenders, it’s not likely many merchants would actually go through with this even if they’re allowed to, says Matthew Goldman, founder of fintech consulting firm Totavi and publisher of the CardsFTW newsletter. “I think most chains and higher value stores will understand that they shouldn’t upset and turn away their best customers.”

But theoretically, consumers could be impacted by merchant outliers who decide they want to reject cards that cost them more to process.

Doug Kantor, Merchants Payments Coalition executive committee member and National Association of Convenience Stores general counsel, says he’s not convinced the settlement in its current form will have any meaningful change at the consumer level — for better or worse.

“They will still be paying huge hidden fees,” he says. “It won’t change their experience in stores at all.”

On the merchant side, for which he is an advocate, Kantor believes that card issuers will find loopholes to get around category acceptance rules.

What’s Next?

While Mastercard and Visa seem eager to move forward with the new settlement, groups like the National Retail Federation feel it doesn’t go far enough to save merchants or consumers money or provide enough acceptance flexibility. “A settlement is years away and we think it will be overturned,” says Kantor.

Goldman thinks what we’re hearing now is much ado about nothing. “Large merchants love to complain about card processing fees, but it’s not really like they want more cash in their stores — cash is expensive and dangerous,” he says. “Merchants are willing to pay more for cards that are held by consumers who spend more, as premium cardholders do.”

It’s unlikely this saga will be resolved anytime soon. In the meantime, keep on earning those rewards shopping at your favorite merchants while the two sides continue to fight it out.

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Options for Career-Minded Individuals

College Undergraduate, Graduate or Advanced Degrees

Most investment professionals pursue a degree in finance, economics or business administration, though math and statistics are also complementary majors. These programs cover everything from market fundamentals, investing, portfolio management and financial analysis to financial theory. While most business schools at major universities offer these degrees, a few institutions stand out in the investment world if you’re aiming for a full-time career, including:

— The University of Pennsylvania (Wharton).

— New York University (Stern).

— The University of California, Berkeley (Haas).

— The American College of Financial Services.

— Cannon Financial Institute.

Certifications and Professional Programs

These are short-duration programs that can be offered both online and in a physical classroom. Not only will you finish with a wealth of knowledge, but you will also have the ability to use the designation professionally after your name. Three popular options are:

— (Chartered Financial Analyst). Widely regarded as one of the for investment professionals, it is an ideal choice if you want to be a portfolio manager or financial analyst.

— (Certified Financial Planner). One of the most widely recognized designations in the industry, it is excellent for personal finance and wealth management.

— (Chartered Financial Consultant). An attractive alternative to the CFP, with a deeper emphasis on the planning side of financial investing.

Community Colleges and Continuing Education Programs

Community colleges offer a wide variety of adult education classes, many of which focus on the fundamentals of building wealth through the stock market. These affordable and practical courses are often taught by seasoned industry professionals. Topics might include:

— Introduction to investing.

— Stock market fundamentals.

— How to analyze a stock on a technical basis.

— Financial literacy for adults.

Specialized Training Institutions

These options offer an immersive experience, but with a high investment:

— (OTA). For over 25 years, OTA has taught individuals how to trade and invest in the market. OTA is the largest trading school, offering both online and classroom instruction at 14 locations in the U.S. and the United Arab Emirates (Dubai).

— , or . Focused on day trading and technical skills.

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Do-It-Yourself Learning

Not everyone wants to or financial planner. Many are simply seeking financial literacy or looking to better understand specific types of investments. If this sounds like you, the internet is a treasure trove of resources.

Massive Open Online Courses

Some top institutions offer internet-based learning on specific topics, including investing. Most courses can be audited for free, taught by Ivy League and other top-tier professors. Content often includes interactive web assignments, discussion forums, video lectures, community chat rooms and quizzes. Leading platforms include:

— Features courses from Yale, the University of Michigan and others. “” by Nobel laureate Robert Shiller is a great starting point.

— . Offers stock market and finance classes from the New York Institute of Finance.

— . Practical tutorials on trading strategies and stock analysis.

— . Free resources on economics, finance and investing basics.

Other Online Resources

— U.S. СÂÜÀòÓ°ÊÓ & World Report. Helpful articles such as offer in-depth explanations for new investors.

— Investopedia. The site features a virtual stock simulator that is particularly useful for testing your learning in a risk-free environment.

— Morningstar. An “Investing Classroom” section provides virtual courses about stocks, funds, bonds and much more.

— Podcasts. An abundance of options, including:

— “” provides real-time learning about current events and their impact on the markets.

— “” offers short, engaging episodes on economic trends.

— “” is unmatched in its emphasis on financial discipline.

— Investment forums. Platforms like Reddit, StockTwits and Discord allow you to discuss strategies with both amateurs and seasoned investors.

— Fintech. Explore platforms like Finviz for stock screening, Simply Wall Street for visual fundamentals and Yahoo Finance or TradingView for data-driven analysis.

Note: Not all online financial advice is accurate or trustworthy. Always double-check information before making big money moves.

Reading Recommendations

are an excellent way to deepen your understanding and can be found on audiobook platforms like Audible.

— “The Richest Man in Babylon” by George S. Clason: A timeless classic from 1926, it teaches principles of saving and investing that are just as relevant today.

— “The Intelligent Investor” by Benjamin Graham: First published in 1948, it’s considered essential reading and introduces the concept of value investing.

— “A Beginner’s Guide to the Stock Market: Everything You Need to Start Making Money Today” by Matthew R. Kratter: A modern, straightforward introduction to investing, offering practical tips and warnings for beginners.

More Opportunities

— Media. Reading the financial sections in U.S. СÂÜÀòÓ°ÊÓ & World Report, Wall Street Journal, Barron’s, Bloomberg and Financial Times.

— Investment clubs. Found through local chambers of commerce or on platforms like these offer real-world investing experience and collaborative learning.

— Community events. Many libraries host lectures on investing and finance, providing a chance to learn and connect with others.

Which Path?

As you can see, learning about the stock market is not confined to a single source or method. Your path depends on your goals. In the end, the best approach often combines several of these resources. With curiosity, consistency and a willingness to learn, anyone can understand the market and become a more confident investor.

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Today, there are more than 76 million people (more than 7 million of whom are children) enrolled in Medicaid, while slightly fewer (about 69.7 million) are enrolled in Medicare, according to the . That means these public health insurance programs cover more Americans than any private insurance option does.

Understanding the differences between and Medicaid can help clarify who qualifies for which program and what they cover. Some individuals may also be eligible for both programs if certain criteria are met.

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At a Glance: Medicare vs. Medicaid 2026

Here’s how and Medicaid compare to one another in 2026.

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Medicare vs. Medicaid: Who Pays and Who Qualifies?

Both Medicare and Medicaid offer health care coverage, but they diverge when it comes to how they operate and who they cover:

— The Medicare framework: Administered at the federal government level, this program focuses primarily on age and criteria and operates uniformly across the U.S., regardless of a beneficiary’s income.

— The Medicaid framework: This state-administered assistance program is distributed in accordance with federal guidelines. It provides health insurance coverage to those with incomes below a specific amount, regardless of age, but its rules, thresholds and coverage options can vary based on where you live.

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Medicare Eligibility and Coverage

is generally determined by age, with potential beneficiaries encouraged to around their 65th birthday. In fact, you for not signing up for the program in a timely manner.

Medicare is overseen by the CMS, an agency of the federal government.

Medicaid Eligibility and Coverage

Medicaid primarily serves:

— Low-income individuals and families

—

— Children

— Disabled individuals, specifically older adults and younger people who receive Supplemental Security Income

Generally, individuals with income levels at or below 138% of the federal poverty level qualify for Medicaid. In 2026, this means that those who make less than $22,025 per year will qualify in most states, though Alaska and Hawaii have different qualifying thresholds. Some states apply different criteria to determine , such as whether the individual has children, is pregnant or has a disability.

What does Medicaid cover?

Medicaid generally covers:

— Inpatient care

— Outpatient care

—

— and

— Transportation to healthcare services

— Labs and X-ray services

These services can help people live better and longer despite being unable to afford medical care or having certain conditions, notes Martha Santana-Chin, CEO of L.A. Care Health Plan, the largest publicly operated health plan in the nation.

“Medicaid is one of the most cost-efficient forms of coverage, especially when compared to private insurance. Medicaid has lower administrative costs, lower out-of-pocket expenses for beneficiaries and slower cost growth per beneficiary,” Santana-Chin explains.

According to the CMS, patients with Medicaid usually pay none of the costs for covered medical expenses, or they may owe a small copayment. Since the enactment of the Affordable Care Act, states have been permitted to expand their Medicaid programs to cover all individuals with household incomes below a certain level. Some states have done so, while others have not. Whether you qualify for Medicaid coverage depends partly on whether your state has expanded its program.

Beyond providing coverage, Medicaid also serves as a major funding source for safety net hospitals and other providers serving vulnerable populations, Santana-Chin adds.

Can I Have Both Medicare and Medicaid?

The short answer: Yes.

Approximately 20% of Medicare beneficiaries are eligible for both Medicare and Medicaid. These individuals are referred to as “dual eligibles,” and they qualify for benefits from both programs and lower out-of-pocket costs. also tend to be low-income seniors or people with disabilities, Santana-Chin notes.

“Being enrolled in both Medicare and Medicaid can lower your out-of-pocket costs substantially for those who qualify,” adds Whitney Stidom, vice president of consumer enablement with eHealth Inc., a health insurance broker and online resource provider headquartered in Indianapolis.

Which Special Needs Plans (SNPs) are available for dual eligibles?

Dual eligibles often have access to (SNPs), a type of Medicare Advantage program tailored for people with specific health needs. These plans include:

— Dual-Eligible SNPs, or D-SNPs, which “provide specialized care and wrap-around services for beneficiaries eligible for both Medicare and Medicaid,” Santana-Chin says.

— Chronic Condition SNPs, or C-SNPs, which offer additional services for beneficiaries with severe or chronic diseases, such as or .

— Institutional SNPs, or I-SNPs, which are designed for those needing .

Who pays first: Medicare or Medicaid?

In cases of dual-eligibility, Medicare acts as your primary insurer and Medicaid is your secondary payer, says Diane Omdahl, Wisconsin-based president and founder of 65 Incorporated, a Medicare consulting firm.

“(Medicaid) works like a supplement plan, picking up the costs that Medicare parts A and B don’t cover,” she explains.

However, Omdahl recommends consulting with a representative from your , known as SHIP, to ensure you’re getting the benefits you qualify for.

The “Dual Eligible” Tiers Table

Some dual-eligible beneficiaries may qualify for assistance to pay Medicare premiums through a . These plans aim to help low-income individuals save money on the out-of-pocket expenses associated with Medicare. Each program has a different income and resource eligibility limit. Here’s how they compare to one another.

2026 Medicare Savings Program income and resource limits

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If you’re enrolled in one of these programs, you automatically qualify to receive the Low-Income Subsidy Extra Help program, which helps .

What’s New for 2026: Integrated Care and D-SNPs

The CMS Final Rule for 2026 introduces major shifts in coverage and systems, particularly a push for streamlined services for the nearly 13 million people who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. Key changes include:

— The move to integrated D-SNPs: CMS is phasing out D-SNP look-alikes and combining Medicare and Medicaid benefits into a single plan with one care team. Integrated plans will also have increased care coordination and technology solutions, such as unified appeals and grievance systems to improve navigating coverage disputes.

— One card, one plan: By January 1, 2027, D-SNPs must issue a single member identification card that works for both Medicare and Medicaid.

— Unified health risk assessments (HRAs): Instead of separate paperwork, plans will also be required to conduct an integrated HRA for both Medicare and Medicaid. To be in compliance, HRAs must be completed within 90 days of enrollment and renewed annually, within 365 days of the previous assessments. Individual care plans must be completed within 30 days of the initial HRA or 30 days after enrollment, whichever comes later.

— New enrollment windows: Dual-eligibles with full Medicaid benefits will have access to a monthly special enrollment period to switch to an integrated D-SNP.

— Financial caps: The update includes a standardized $2,100 out-of-pocket maximum for .

Medicaid Income Limits 2026

Each year, the Department of Health and Human Services sets a national federal poverty level that’s used to determine eligibility for certain programs and benefits, including Medicaid and the Children’s Health Insurance Program — a joint federal-state program that provides coverage for children and pregnant women who may earn too much to qualify for Medicaid. In 2026, people who fall under 138% of the FPL typically qualify for Medicaid.

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Medicaid and Medicare Coverage Challenges Ahead

Recent federal legislative efforts have altered the landscape for both Medicare and , which could impact individuals enrolled in Medicare, Medicaid or both in the coming years.

“Medicaid is due for a shake-up following passage of the Big Beautiful Bill,” Stidom notes, referring to the One Big Beautiful Bill Act signed into law in July 2025.

These changes may include:

— Difficulty with qualifying: “Fewer federal dollars will be going to the states for Medicaid support, and it may be harder for some people to qualify for Medicaid under new rules,” Stidom explains. “As a result, millions of Medicaid beneficiaries could potentially lose their coverage.” These changes may impact dual-eligible individuals and also lead to higher out-of-pocket costs under Medicare, she adds.

— Loss of coverage: Some Medicaid beneficiaries who are not enrolled in Medicare could also lose their coverage, Stidom points out, but there may be another option — accessing other coverage options under the Affordable Care Act. For example, if you earn no more than 400% of the federal poverty level ($63,840 in 2026 for an individual), you may qualify for subsidy assistance that makes health insurance premiums much more affordable when buying coverage on your .

You’ll have an opportunity to for 2027 beginning on October 15 when the annual open enrollment period opens. This period runs through December 7. You should also watch for communications from your current plan to understand how your coverage may change next year.

A licensed health insurance can help you review options from multiple insurers to find the best match for your needs and budget, as this can result in significant savings depending on your situation.

Update 06/10/26: This story was published at an earlier date and has been updated with new information.

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