(NewsUSA) - Grass-stained sneakers. A shiny, round ball. A handful of four-year-olds laughing and clapping nearby. And then, for Soccer Shots participant Ben, a big moment — his very first kick.

For children like Ben, that first kick is much more; it's a step toward building confidence.

Research shows that physical activity can reduce depressive symptoms in children. In addition, for young children struggling with inadequate socialization or self-assurance, sports can be an early opportunity team building and healthy movement. However, many children retreat from youth sports because of costs and hyper-competitiveness.

Soccer Shots, a national program founded in the late 1990s by two former professional soccer players, has created quality programs that let children simply have fun. Certified coaches and a research-backed curriculum turn wobbly first steps into confident play and life lessons that last.

Soccer Shots now includes more than 340 franchises across the U.S. and Canada, with more than 600,000 children participating annually. Soccer Shots’ success goes beyond playing the game itself. The program inspires children to lead active, healthy lives, boosts their confidence, and teaches important life skills of leadership, teamwork, and respect.

"We believe every child deserves a place to play, grow, and belong," says Justin Bredeman, CEO of Soccer Shots. "The program has come a long way in 20 years, and we're incredibly proud to shape the future generation of strong, confident kids who can carry these foundational lessons with them into adulthood.”

Each Soccer Shots program is designed for children ranging from 18 months to 8 years old, with a developmentally appropriate curriculum that includes building positive character traits and real-world skills in communication, collaboration, resilience, and inclusion.

Soccer Shots' core principle is to use soccer to positively impact youth both on and off the field. Through partnerships with organizations like the U.S. Soccer Foundation and Nike, the program continues to reach communities and share the impact of play across the country and the world.

Soccer Shots marks its 20th anniversary franchising in 2025 with a "20 Years of Smiles" theme that demonstrates program’s long-term impact and continued commitment to making soccer accessible, inclusive, and impactful for children of all abilities and backgrounds. Special anniversary events include Free Fun Days on Saturday, July 26, and Sunday, July 27, where families across North America are invited to experience the joy of Soccer Shots firsthand, at no cost. In addition, Soccer Shots is hosting food donation drives to give back to communities across the country through participation with local food banks.

At a time when our kids need connection and support more than ever, programs that champion inclusion, confidence, and joy aren't just valuable, they're essential. Soccer Shots is ready to score and help kids experience what’s possible. Visit birthday.soccershots.com to learn more.

(Jill Purcell, Head of Dental and Vision Product and Network Management, Guardian and Shawn Patrick, Director of Strategic Growth, Kelsey National) - Maintaining good oral health is a crucial component of your overall well-being at any age, yet it becomes particularly important as we get older. Oral health is closely tied to not just our physical wellness but also our mental and financial well-being.

Unfortunately, far too many older Americans aren’t getting the dental care they need. In fact, one in four U.S. adults aged 65 and older have not had dental care in more than two years. With some Medicare plans scaling back dental benefits, now is the time to act.

The well-being connection

Oral health can have a lasting impact on your broader physical wellness. Without proper care, harmful bacteria can build up around teeth and cause gum disease or even spread to other parts of the body. Dry mouth, which can be caused by some medications as well as by CPAP use, can increase the risk of cavities and gum disease as well. Health conditions linked to poor oral health also include diabetes, kidney disease, dementia, pneumonia, and liver disease, among others.

This connection is particularly important for seniors to take into consideration. According to Guardian’s 2025 Mind, Body, and Wallet® report, 97% of Baby Boomers say that physical health plays an essential role in their well-being. Yet the impacts of oral health extend even further.

Guardian research has also found that poor oral health correlates with low self-esteem, anxiety, and depression. There’s a tie to financial wellness too, with the same study showing that adults over age 55 who do not receive annual dental exams and cleanings have higher claim costs compared to those who do.  

Despite its importance, many older Americans aren’t getting the care they need to support good oral health. According to the National Association of Dental Plans, approximately 31 million Americans ages 55 and older remain without dental coverage.

 The benefits of an individual dental plan

To help meet the needs of retirees and others who don’t have access to dental insurance through an employer, some carriers offer dental plans directly to consumers.

This is an option that provides a lot of benefits for seniors. For instance:

• You can assess a wide variety of plans at all different price points, including on third-party websites that make it easy to compare options.
• By selecting a carrier with a large provider network, you can find care where it is convenient for you. You may also be able to save on care costs with discounts that network dentists may provide in partnership with a carrier.
• With carriers that offer a self-service online platform, you can access information such as benefits details, claims history, network dentists near you, and ID cards, plus live support.
• Some carriers are even providing ongoing education about oral health and dental benefits, along with well-being support.

Now all that’s left is selecting the right plan.

What to look for in an individual dental plan

No two individuals are going to have the same exact oral care needs, regardless of age. Still, by keeping a few factors in mind, you can select the dental plan that will be the best fit for you.

For starters, finding a plan that covers preventive, basic, and major dental care is key. Also consider any other services beyond regular cleanings and x-rays you may want to use to be sure your plan covers them. Plus, if you have an immediate dental need, be on the lookout for waiting periods, which require that you be enrolled in the plan for a minimum number of months before a more expensive procedure may be covered.

Getting started

Maintaining good oral health as a senior has benefits that extend far beyond the teeth and mouth.

By finding the dental plan that’s right for you, you’re on your way to enhancing your oral health and overall well-being. Get started today.

(NewsUSA) - Counting steps as a measure of exercise is misleading, and not a useful indicator of daily exercise goals, according to exercise physiologist Alexander Rothstein, Ed.D.

“Hitting 10,000 steps a day helps to prevent long sedentary periods, which are associated with health risks like blood clots and heart disease, but society tends to overestimate the fitness benefits of taking 10,000 steps,” said Rothstein, an assistant professor of exercise science at New York Institute of Technology.

The American College of Sports Medicine recommends at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity cardio exercise five days per week, or 20 minutes of vigorous-intensity cardiorespiratory exercise three times per week for most adults, Rothstein said. A combination of the two (moderate and vigorous) at least three to four days a week would also meet these guidelines.

However, nearly half (46%) of American adults do not meet guidelines for aerobic or muscle-strengthening activities, according to the latest data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

On its own, a daily step count goal has a minimal impact on physical fitness. Although everyday walking qualifies as physical activity, it typically lacks the intensity needed to significantly improve cardiovascular or muscular fitness, Rothstein said. “During routine walking, we’re usually not reaching an intensity that sufficiently elevates heart rate or oxygen demand to drive meaningful physiological adaptations,” he explained.

For a more accurate measurement of exercise intensity, Rothstein advises checking your heart rate rather than your step count. “Heart rate is a better measurement tool. The time spent in certain heart rate zones can be counted towards the recommended exercise guidelines. In general, the higher your heart rate, the higher the exercise intensity,” he said.

You can raise the intensity and elevate your heart rate while walking by increasing your pace (power walk) or adding some hills, which requires you to work against gravity to propel yourself upward, Rothstein noted. “These factors challenge the body much more than walking at a slower pace or on a flat surface. Walking on an incline activates muscles in the calves, glutes, and hamstrings, especially if you’re moving faster.”

Steps are a great way to track physical activity and prevent sedentary behavior, but be sure to plan time for purposeful exercise that challenges the body and elevates the heart rate, Rothstein added.

Rothstein is one of many New York Tech faculty lending their expertise to help tackle real-world challenges. Visit nyit.edu to learn more.

(NewsUSA) - A once-a-day pill called blarcamesine may slow memory loss and preserve independence—without the scary side effects or burdens of current treatments.

If you love someone with Alzheimer’s, you know how quietly devastating the disease can be. One day it’s a forgotten name. A year later, it’s forgotten faces, forgotten routines. For many, even the latest treatments feel out of reach: risky, invasive, or simply too late.

But now, a new study offers something rare in Alzheimer's, a reason for hope. A once-daily pill called blarcamesine (pronounced blar-CAM-uh-seen) may actually slow the disease’s grip. And it does so safely, without the brain swelling and bleeding linked to some newer drugs.

The data, presented this spring at an international Alzheimer’s conference, showed that people who started taking blarcamesine early and stayed on it continuously had better memory, clearer thinking, and greater ability to handle everyday tasks—even after nearly four years.

For families trying to hang on to time and dignity, that’s no small thing.

As Dr. Timo Grimmer, a lead scientist on the study, put it: “Diagnosing and treating people earlier and consistently may lead to greater clinical benefit.”

Blarcamesine isn’t an infusion. There’s no monthly IV. No MRI scans. No trips to specialty hospitals. Just one pill a day.

That simplicity matters. Many Alzheimer’s treatments today require hospital visits, specialized imaging, and high-risk monitoring for side effects. These hurdles often make access harder for families without nearby clinics or flexible jobs.

"Oral medications like blarcamesine are more convenient for many patients as they can take medication at home without requiring regular clinic visits or infusion appointments," says Amy Reichelt, Ph.D., a neuroscientist and drug development expert. "Monoclonal antibodies require regular infusion center visits (typically every 2–4 weeks), which creates significant logistical burdens for patients and caregivers."

Still, there are trade-offs. “Adherence challenges exist with oral Alzheimer's medications as patients can forget to take their medications,” Reichelt adds. “However, the convenience of home administration is valuable for Alzheimer's patients who may struggle with transportation and clinic visits as their condition progresses.”

Let’s put the science in plain terms.

In the study, people who began taking blarcamesine right away had stronger thinking skills than those who started a year later. Their memory declined more slowly, and they were better able to handle basic tasks like dressing or preparing food.

And while the numbers may sound small—three or four points better on a memory scale—experts say that’s enough to change daily life. It might mean still knowing your grandchildren’s names. Still walking safely. Still living independently.

The safety data is especially striking. "A recent Phase 2b/3 clinical study with blarcamesine showed that there was no evidence of neurological tissue damage such as hemorrhage or Amyloid-related imaging abnormalities (ARIA), which have been observed with lecanemab and donanemab," Reichelt explains. Those antibody drugs require regular MRI scans to monitor ARIA, a side effect that can force treatment to stop.

"The risk of ARIA requires frequent patient monitoring by MRI and can lead to treatment discontinuation," she says. "However, the frequent monitoring with MRI might catch increasing disease progression or other pathologies."

While safety and simplicity are headline features, the economics of a pill like blarcamesine could be just as powerful.

“Key economic factors include reduced monitoring costs, as frequent MRI scans are costly,” Reichelt notes. “And some individuals are incompatible with MRIs due to metal implants or claustrophobia.”

IV infusions come with additional costs—nursing time, facility fees, medication prep, and more. “Moreover, caregiver time, transportation, and lost productivity for caregivers dealing with regular infusion appointments can be substantial, particularly as patients become less mobile,” Reichelt adds.

“Oral medications typically have broader insurance coverage and accessibility, especially in rural or underserved areas where access to infusion centers may be limited,” she says. “The potential cost savings of an oral medication without MRI monitoring is likely significant for both insurance payers, and patient experience and treatment adherence may also be improved.”

Blarcamesine is still under review by health authorities in Europe. It’s not yet approved for general use in the U.S. But the signs are encouraging, and the pressure is growing.

There are nearly 7 million Americans living with Alzheimer’s. Many current treatments are too complex, too risky, or simply too late. Families deserve better options. Safer options. Smarter options.

That’s what makes blarcamesine so compelling. It’s not just another high-tech moonshot. It’s a practical, patient-friendly approach that could help more people, sooner.

(Keith Namiot, Head of Annuities, Guardian) - Saving for retirement can be challenging under everyday circumstances, and especially so during times of economic uncertainty and market volatility. For many, it can be a major concern that affects their financial health and overall well-being.

According to recent data from Guardian’s 2025 Mind, Body, and Wallet® report, retirement-related concerns are the top financial stressors keeping Americans up at night, with nearly half of Americans indicating that having a source of guaranteed income in retirement and having retirement savings last as long as needed are their top financial stressors. One way to help alleviate the concerns associated with retirement income is to consider adding an annuity product to your retirement saving strategy.  

Annuities can help diversify a retirement portfolio and offer a range of potential benefits, from protection against market loss to tax-deferred growth. They can also provide a guaranteed stream of income that lasts throughout retirement, offering greater financial confidence even in uncertain economic times.

There are several types of annuities to consider, including Single Premium Immediate Annuities (SPIAs) and Deferred Income Annuities (DIAs). Both types of these income-producing annuities can help alleviate concerns about outliving one’s nest egg and not maintaining an acquired standard of living in retirement.

Exploring a Registered Index-Linked Annuity

In addition to SPIAs and DIAs, Registered Index-Linked Annuities (RILAs) are another popular annuity solution. One example of a RILA, Guardian MarketPerform®, offers growth potential for retirement assets and tax deferral on investment growth while providing a level of downside protection during market downturns.

In addition, RILAs allow individuals the flexibility to choose from a select range of investment options including different indices. These protection-oriented growth solutions can be customized to suit the individual’s unique needs and timeline.

RILAs are a long-term investment product offered by prospectus only, and there are many factors to take into account when considering an annuity that should be discussed with a financial professional.

Supporting your retirement planning goals

With Guardian finding that 73% of Americans said they haven’t saved enough for retirement, and 69% regret not starting to save sooner, annuities can help address many of today’s retirement planning challenges. Whether you’re looking to accumulate more retirement assets with a level of protection or turn your retirement savings into a steady stream of lifetime income, people choose annuities as a way to build protection into their retirement nest egg, along with an IRA, 401(k), or pension.

Each annuity has unique benefits: SPIAs provide immediate, steady income; DIAs allow you to plan and lock in income for the future; and RILAs allow you to balance retirement planning, growth potential, and a level of protection. This can help enable you to continue striving towards growth goals while also knowing you have a certain level of protection in the face of turbulence.

Enabling overall well-being

Having an annuity within your retirement plan could play an important role in supporting not only your financial well-being but also your mental and physical health. According to Guardian’s report, for instance, 74% of US adults with poor physical health also report poor financial health.

Given the close connection between mental, physical, and financial well-being, setting a strong foundation for retirement and tapping into the power of an annuity can be an impactful way to support your overall wellness.  

Getting started today

Working with a financial professional can help you develop the retirement savings strategy that’s right for you. They can listen to your needs and help determine what role an annuity could play in supporting your retirement goals, as well as which type of annuity might be the right fit.

June is Annuities Awareness Month, and the perfect time to start the conversation. Don’t wait to make a game plan to reach your retirement goals—reach out to a financial professional today. 

To learn more, visit https://www.guardianlife.com/retirement.

Disclaimer

This product is sold by prospectus only. Please read the prospectus carefully before investing or sending money. The prospectus contains important information regarding this product, including fees and expenses. A prospectus may be obtained by calling 888-Guardian (888-482-7342). To download a prospectus, please visit guardianlife.com. Guardian MarketPerform^® may not be available in all states.

Index Protection and Crediting Strategies are not a permanent part of the contract and may be removed due to circumstances beyond the control of GIAC. These circumstances and the special rules that govern how assets in a discontinued index interest account may be reallocated are outlined in the contract. We will not issue a Contract on February 29 in leap years. The Contract would be issued on the following business day.

If you do not remain invested in your IPCS options until the Term End Date, you could experience a loss that is greater than the level of protection the Protection Strategy provides or a gain that is lower than the return the Crediting Strategy provides on the Term End Date.

The renewal rates under each Strategy are based on the economic environment at the time renewal rates are declared and may be less favorable than those declared at issue. Renewal rates may be reduced as the contract approaches the end of the surrender charge period.

All guarantees are backed exclusively by the strength and claims paying ability of The Guardian Insurance & Annuity Company, Inc. (GIAC). Guardian MarketPerform^® is issued by GIAC, a Delaware corporation, and distributed through Park Avenue Securities LLC (PAS). GIAC and PAS are wholly owned subsidiaries of The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America (Guardian). Guardian, GIAC and PAS are located at 10 Hudson Yards, New York, NY 10001. Product availability and features may vary by state.

Guardian MarketPerform^® products are issued on contract forms 23-RILA, 23-RILA BUFFER, 23-RILA FRS, 23-RILA ROPDB, 23-RILA WSC, 23-RILA STRATEGY SPEC (or state equivalent forms). Product availability and features may vary by state.

8061022.1 (06/2027)

(NewsUSA) - As heatwaves intensify and storms grow more severe, the risk of prolonged power outages continues to climb. Forecasters across the country are sounding the alarm that extreme weather is no longer the exception, but the norm. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) projects that a highly active Atlantic hurricane season will persist through 2025, with elevated potential for disruption to the power grid.

With these climate patterns in mind, reliable backup power is becoming a necessity. And while home standby generators receive much of the attention in conversations about emergency preparedness, a reliable transfer switch is just as essential to providing reliable, automatic power and home comfort during an outage.

Why the Transfer Switch Matters
A standby generator may be the muscle of your backup power system, but the transfer switch is the mechanism that enables the automatic backup experience. The system detects the loss of utility power and automatically reroutes the home's electrical power from the generator without the need for manual, owner intervention.

Generac, the leader in residential backup power, has long understood this critical connection. That’s why the company has introduced its most advanced line of residential home standby generators and automatic transfer switches. Now, the industry’s first all-new residential automatic transfer switch features factory-installed, full-home integrated surge protection to help protect both the home and the generator itself from harmful power surges.  The average US home has $15,000 worth of equipment that can be potentially damaged by power surges, according to the National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA).  

Choosing the Right Generator System
Home standby generators are powered by natural gas or propane, providing a continuous fuel supply via direct utility or on-site storage for extended runtime during grid failures. When integrated with a high-performance automatic transfer switch, a home standby generator forms a closed-loop system that delivers immediate, automatic power to full home and essential home systems. This makes them ideal for homes in areas prone to frequent or prolonged outages. While more costly than portable generators, they offer powerful peace of mind and convenience.

When evaluating backup power options, it’s important to first consider the size of your home and your household’s potential needs during an outage. Start by identifying the essential loads you want to keep powered, which might include heating or air conditioning systems, refrigeration for food preservation, lighting, and any critical equipment or supplies. Then review your typical energy consumption patterns to understand what level of power output your generator must support. This includes factoring in whether you want to maintain full-home functionality or focus only on priority systems. Accurately sizing your system from the start helps ensure optimal performance, safety, and long-term reliability.

Powering Resilience and the Future of the Grid
In addition to protecting home comfort during outages, new programs allow many homeowners to leverage their backup power systems to support broader energy resilience through Virtual Power Plant (VPP) programs. These utility-led initiatives, where available, enable participating generators to supply power back to the grid during periods of high demand, thereby helping to stabilize local infrastructure and potentially earning financial incentives in the process.

A key component to participating in these programs efficiently and safely is an automatic transfer switch. Generac’s new automatic transfer switches are designed to instantly detect utility loss and transition the home to generator power. This hands-free operation is not only ideal for outage preparedness but also critical for meeting the responsiveness and automation standards many VPP programs require.

For homeowners looking to future-proof their homes while contributing to grid stability, a standby generator paired with a high-performance transfer switch offers the best of both worlds: uninterrupted comfort during outages, and meaningful participation in tomorrow’s energy ecosystem.