Archive for category: Medicare News

WASHINGTON—After decades of being in the spotlight, Drew Barrymore couldn’t be happier about where her long-lasting career has taken her in life. In the February/March 2025 issue of AARP The Magazine (ATM), the actor-turned-talk show host discusses growing up in front of the cameras, staying positive, and celebrating her 50th birthday.

With her sudden rise to fame after her 1982 breakout role in E.T., Barrymore’s teen years proved to be tumultuous. She continued to feel “worried and stressed” throughout adulthood, she tells AARP in a digital exclusive video. However, Barrymore tearfully confesses her life has improved with aging: “I would have never guessed that I would feel peace. Thank you 50. Thank you, AARP.”

She also opens up about her family, and her decision to swear off men, alcohol, and acting – in an effort to continue being present for her daughters. Working on the fifth season of her Emmy-winning talk show The Drew Barrymore Show, she tells ATM, “I date occasionally, but no way am I ready to open that door.” 

The following are excerpts from ATM’s February/March 2025 cover story featuring Drew Barrymore. The issue is available in homes starting in February and online now at www.aarp.org/magazine/.

On her upcoming 50th birthday:

“It can’t come soon enough. I feel like Frodo [in The Lord of the Rings]. I see that brass ring and I’m so excited! I have no issues with aging—this is the happiest I’ve been in my life.”

On being open about PMS and menopause, both on and off-camera:

“In one day, we covered gynecology, hot flashes, pooping in your pants, PMS—and we weren’t even doing a medical show! Sometimes when I’m waiting to walk out, I’ll have a lot of stuff on my plate—I’m worried about my parent-teacher conference meeting that didn’t go perfectly. Or I just fell 3 feet and hurt my ankle, and I’ve got to go to an MRI that afternoon. But then I limp out and say, “Can we just be real about this? Let’s put it all out there. Let’s cheer each other on. Let’s laugh.””

On dating:

“My girls say I should go on dates, but I also know how I felt when men were around when I was little—it didn’t feel safe to me, so I’m probably overcautious from those experiences.”

On prevailing over negativity while hosting The Drew Barrymore Show:

“I’m so sick of the guilt and sadness. It’s the greatest habit I will ever break in my life. When I talk about beating myself up, I see heads nodding and I’m like, “We can’t do this to ourselves anymore. I’ve seen the light.” It doesn’t mean I’ve got it mastered, but I see the light enough to know that this isn’t good.”

On enduring her divorce with Will Kopelman in 2016:

“My dream family was falling apart and I didn’t know how to put one foot in front of the other. And I had grown up so fast but now I didn’t know what age to feel—I just knew that my life was heavy, and painful and sad—and I sat in that for a while. Eventually, thank goodness, I lifted myself out of it. I had two kids and I had to figure it out.”

On taking a step back from acting to focus on parenthood:

“I was in my early 40s, and not learning how to be my own healthy, independent individual, how to be the parent I dream to be. Being other people doesn’t help me figure that out right now. And the long hours of doing films were hours I wouldn’t have with my kids. I wasn’t going to do that.”

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About AARP:

AARP is the nation’s largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering Americans 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to the more than 100 million Americans 50-plus and their families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also works for individuals in the marketplace by sparking new solutions and allowing carefully chosen, high-quality products and services to carry the AARP name. As a trusted source for news and information, AARP produces the nation’s largest circulation publications, AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin. To learn more, visit www.aarp.org/about-aarp/, www.aarp.org/español or follow @AARP, @AARPenEspañol and @AARPadvocates on social media.

WASHINGTON— The December 2024/January 2025 issue of AARP The Magazine (ATM) gives readers a closer look into the lives of their favorite celebrities and reveals some of the biggest trends of 2024/2025.

The incomparable Academy Award-winning actress Michelle Yeoh graces the cover in all her elegance, opening up about her journey and trailblazing career. With a historic win under her belt, Yeoh’s continued rise to global stardom is nothing short of inspiring. Yeoh enthuses about the star-studded adaptation of Wicked, and the thrilling roles she has to come. The issue’s Upfront series showcases six surprising things about actress Naomi Watts – like how she struggled with infertility due to perimenopause in her mid-30s. Multiple-award-winning actor and filmmaker Danny DeVito, at 80, discusses his iconic roles in Taxi and Always Sunny in Philadelphia, and the joy of being a family-focused grandfather. Additionally, ATM travel experts select the ideal cities you need to go to in 2025.

Plus: One ATM money pro spills six “Tricky Truths” when it comes to investment costs, life insurance, and other financial situations; discover how scanning barcodes and checking nutrition info can make your shopping experience even better; and ride-hailing services such as Uber and Lyft support caregivers.

In this issue of AARP The Magazine:

Michelle Yeoh’s Cover Story

Michelle Yeoh reflects on her remarkable journey from aspiring ballet school owner to becoming an award-winning actress, sharing how she honors the Asian actresses who paved the way for her success. In her interview with AARP The Magazine (ATM), Yeoh discusses her career, including her Oscar win for Everything Everywhere All at Once, and her new projects, such as the musical adaptation of Wicked and upcoming roles in Avatar 4 and Star Trek: Section 31. She also opens up about her personal life, finding love again with her husband Jean Todt, and her desire to slow down and focus on family while continuing to grow in her acting career.

The A List: 6 Surprising Things About Naomi Watts

British actress Naomi Watts reflects on the pivotal moments that have shaped her life, from the heartbreaking loss of her father to an apparent heroin overdose when she was only seven years old, to finding love and marrying, for the first time, at 54, actor Billy Crudup. She also delves into her journey through perimenopause, which began in her mid-30s, a topic she explores in depth in her upcoming book Dare I Say It, set to release in January.

What I Know Now: Danny DeVito
Danny DeVito, the beloved actor celebrated for his iconic roles in Taxi and It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia, reflects on the defining moments that have shaped his life and career. He shares candid insights about his upbringing in a lively, close-knit Italian family, his unexpected journey into acting, and his rapid rise to fame—all while remaining grounded in the spotlight. Now relishing his role as a grandfather, DeVito reveals how aging has emboldened him, giving him the confidence to speak his mind while staying true to his values of respect.

Money Report: Tricky Truths That Can Lose You Money

A financial expert examines six “tricky truths”—popular financial advice that, while well-meaning, may not apply to everyone’s unique situation. From the misconception that higher fees guarantee better returns to the pitfalls of overvaluing past investment successes and misunderstandings about life insurance, the discussion highlights the importance of tailoring financial strategies to individual needs and long-term goals.

Where To Travel In 2025
Seven must-visit travel destinations for older Americans to explore in 2025 have just been unveiled. AARP The Magazine has a list featuring a diverse mix of locations tailored to history, culture, and value. From the awe-inspiring aurora borealis in Fairbanks to Argentina’s favorable exchange rates, this guide highlights must-see sites and recommended activities to help plan one’s next unforgettable adventure.

Scan That Barcode

ATM offers insights on how apps like MyNetDiary, ShopSavvy, and Yuka, can be utilized to enhance daily grocery shopping experiences. By scanning product barcodes with your phone, you can instantly access nutritional information, compare prices, and check ingredient safety, making the process of informed shopping decisions much easier.

Ride-Hailing For Caregivers

Ride-hailing services like Uber and Lyft are highlighted by ATM for their role in simplifying transportation for caregivers. With features like ride scheduling and three-way communication among caregivers, drivers, and passengers, these services make it easier to ensure loved ones get where they need to go, no matter the distance.

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About AARP
AARP is the nation’s largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering Americans 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to the more than 100 million Americans 50-plus and their families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also works for individuals in the marketplace by sparking new solutions and allowing carefully chosen, high-quality products and services to carry the AARP name. As a trusted source for news and information, AARP produces the nation’s largest circulation publications, AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin. To learn more, visit www.aarp.org/about-aarp/, www.aarp.org/español or follow @AARP, @AARPenEspañol and @AARPadvocates on social media.

WASHINGTON—This month, AARP Bulletin details how technology is aiding in advancing longevity. From new tech that can help adults stay in their homes for more years to a deep dive on medical triumphs in extending a person’s healthy years, this issue helps readers stay informed of the most important and relevant advancements available.

Highlights from the November issue of the Bulletin:

AARP CEO Says Farewell:

Jo Ann Jenkins has been Chief Executive Officer at AARP for 10 years. In this special issue of “Your AARP,” Jenkins discussed what has changed in the past decade for older adults: how stereotypes about aging have been challenged, how the conversation around brain health has evolved, how prescription drug prices have improved, and more. Take stock the critical issues facing older Americans with Jenkins in this month’s issue.

Calculate Your Retirement Numbers Today:

The answer to “How much money will I have in retirement?” depends on a few key factors. Calculators exist online that can help estimate that number, but differences exist among them. This month, Bulletin pros have put together a head-to-head comparison of over a dozen popular retirement calculators, both free-to-use and paid, to help consumers better understand their benefits and shortcomings. Learn more in this month’s “Your Money.”

Smart Home Guide:

Getting older doesn’t have to mean leaving your home. New tech promises to make aging in place easier. Fall detectors, security systems, smart thermostats, bathroom technology, and more can lend a hand to older adults living alone and to caregivers. Read this month’s “Your Life” section in the Bulletin to learn more in our Smart Home Guide.

Holiday Hacks:

Online shopping scams are a big business—especially around the holidays, says Amy Nofziger, director of victim support for the AARP Fraud Watch Network. Our Fraud Watch pros detail the latest scams that are coming – with a special focus on phony products, listings, and even entire e-stores with the goal of taking consumers’ money and then disappearing forever. Stay safe ahead of the holiday shopping rush and read the latest edition to learn more.

Cover Story: Could a Person Live to 200?

Medical researchers are on the path of finding out how to lengthen not just a person’s lifespan, but also their healthspan – more life years with fewer diseases. A handful of scientific breakthroughs from the past two years have shown promise of elongating your healthy years. AARP Bulletin has gathered medical professionals to detail how the science of healthy living works, what advances are being made in the study, and easy ways for everyone to slow their own bodies’ rate of decay. Learn more in the November Bulletin cover story.

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About AARP
AARP is the nation’s largest nonprofit, nonpartisan organization dedicated to empowering Americans 50 and older to choose how they live as they age. With a nationwide presence, AARP strengthens communities and advocates for what matters most to the more than 100 million Americans 50-plus and their families: health security, financial stability and personal fulfillment. AARP also works for individuals in the marketplace by sparking new solutions and allowing carefully chosen, high-quality products and services to carry the AARP name. As a trusted source for news and information, AARP produces the nation’s largest-circulation publications, AARP The Magazine and AARP Bulletin. To learn more, visit www.aarp.org/about-aarp/, www.aarp.org/español or follow @AARP, @AARPenEspañol and @AARPadvocates on social media.