The AARP Bulletin encourages your feedback on any of these topics in our discussion forums. Share your personal anecdotes, insights and opinions on topics in the news—or about the Bulletin's coverage itself or its website.

Use the drop-down menu below for a list of all discussions accessible via this page.

What’s your most memorable moment in history?
The introduction of TV dinners. The resignation of Richard Nixon. The fall of the Berlin Wall. All these events and more have occurred during the lifetime of Kathleen Casey-Kirschling, the nation’s very first baby boomer, who has applied for Social Security. Tell us about your most memorable moments from modern history—be it related to pop culture, politics, science or beyond.

Stopping potential abusers
After her 90-year-old grandmother was assaulted and raped by an employee at her residential care facility, Jennifer Coldren became an advocate for a bill that would create a national background check system for long-term care workers. Has a loved one been a victim of elder abuse while residing in a long-term care facility or in their own home? Do you think federally mandated national background checks will prohibit abusers from working in other states where interstate background checks aren’t done?

Candidates' views on health care
As the presidential candidates crisscrossed the early-primary states in recent months, Americans facing the challenges of long-term care might have wondered about the contenders’ own experiences with their parents. And more important, how have those experiences helped shape the candidates’ policies on the way families provide and receive long-term care? So our question to you is, how important is the issue of health care? What is your opinion of each candidate's position on health care and will it affect your vote?

Empowering the shareholder
Americans own trillions of dollars in stock through pension funds, savings plans and as individual investments. And increasingly, they’re using their clout to rein in corporate America, launching campaigns to dump a CEO, to change a company’s unprofitable course or to go green. So we'd like to know what our members and readers think of empowering the shareholder. Do you hold stock in a large company? Are you a vocal shareholder? Do you have any advice or tips in helping your voice be heard?

Should older people be barred from driving?
The right to drive a car almost feels enshrined in the Constitution. But the growing number of older motorists—by 2030, one of every four drivers could be 65-plus—has kindled heated debate about when someone should be barred from taking the wheel. In the November 2007 Bulletin, Reed Karaim takes a look at some programs designed to help mature drivers stay behind the wheel longer. But what is your opinion on older drivers? Do you think there should be a point when a person loses the right to a driver's license because of age? Who decides that? And what criteria would be used in making that determination?

Share your Medicare Advantage story
Medicare beneficiaries in at least 37 states have been victims of illegal or unethical hard-sell tactics used to sign them up for private Medicare Advantage health plans—often without their knowledge or without their realizing it would mean leaving the traditional Medicare program, according to state insurance commissioners. Have you been tricked into signing up for a Medicare Advantage plan? If so, the AARP Bulletin would like to hear your story.

Should women give up their careers and retirement security?
Are you ready for retirement? With personal debt on the rise, Social Security in jeopardy and pension plans all but forgotten, planning for life after work is more important than ever. We all face challenges on the road to retirement, but the pitfalls that can snare women are even greater. Today's working women enjoy unprecedented opportunities for job growth and advancement. But the gender-related issues they face, particularly the cultural expectation of women as caregivers, could jeopardize their retirement security.

Should women give up their careers and potential retirement security to raise a family? And do you agree with the Parents' Tax Relief Act, which would allow nonworking mothers to earn Social Security work credits for years spent caring for their children? Ultimately, what is more important to society: a successful career, fruitful retirement or a healthy family?

Would you go abroad for medical care?
With skyrocketing health care costs at home, more Americans—some at the urging of their employers—are going abroad for medical care. Patients are finding state-of-the-art hospitals, Western-trained physicians and faster doctor access than in the United States, not to mention the tremendous vacation opportunities and post-care rest at relatively low cost. But these medical journeys also bring with them a wealth of pretrip fears, lack of follow-up care, limited or no legal recourse in case of negligence and a risk of poor treatment by underqualified practitioners. What do you think of medical tourism? Do you think this is an indictment of our own health care system or just a cheap alternative? Would you go abroad for medical care?

Should the government fund complete streets?
In too many cities around the nation, pedestrians are forced to commute at their peril. So in the absence of sidewalks, paved bike paths or even a wide shoulder on the road, a growing number of states and local governments are demanding streets that accommodate all types of travel, not just cars. What do you think of a “complete street?” Do you think the government should spend millions of dollars in tax money to accommodate what can—in some cities—be a very small percentage of commuters? And how does this tie in to the threat of global warming, energy conservation and our dependency on oil? Shouldn’t we take action now?

Would auto-IRAs help?
The related article in the AARP Bulletin tells of a bipartisan effort under way on Capitol Hill that would offer roughly half of our work force a convenient way to save for old age through automatic IRAs. Studies of 401(k)s—the employer-sponsored retirement plans—have shown that when enrollment was made automatic, participation by new workers increased dramatically. But small businesses aren’t as quick to warm up to the idea. Many are opposed to government mandates and suggest government-approved retirement plans are too complicated and expensive. What’s your take on this? Do you think auto-IRAs would help?

What do you think of Sicko?
Michael Moore is back at it, producing a film to stir up some controversy. This time he's taking on America's ailing health care system. His new documentary, Sicko, goes straight for the heart, recounting the stories of people who were unable to get needed medical care for themselves or their families. We'd like to hear from you with your thoughts on the movie. What did you think of Sicko? Do you think Moore is shedding light on an important subject or simply telling half the story?

Mobile homes face condo battle
Mobile-home park owners are moving to convert their parks to condos—whether the residents want it or not. And some residents (many on fixed incomes) are being forced from their homes because they cannot afford to buy. What was intended to be helpful is now harmful to many low-income mobile-home park tenants. What can be done? Is there a happy medium between forcing ownership and maintaining rental status? And who really is to blame for this problem?

Discuss rising insurance rates
In the related article in the AARP Bulletin, we learn of countless stories of insurance companies raising their rates, lowing coverage and even completely dropping out of communities at risk. Many homeowners can hardly afford the skyrocketing rates and some are being forced to move. Should the federal government get involved? And is living in paradise or near the coast worth the risk of losing it all during the next active hurricane season? Tell us what you think.

Speak out on elder abuse
In the related article in the AARP Bulletin, a national survey of state adult protective agencies released in 2006 turned up, in one year, 565,747 reports of abuse of vulnerable adults. And many believe the survey is only the tip of the iceberg, as only one instance in 14 goes reported. Given the magnitude of the problem and the popularity of federal programs to combat child and domestic abuse, legislation to aid the elderly would seem a given. And yet the federal government is uninvolved. What can Congress do to help combat this issue as more and more boomers reach age 60? Isn’t it time for some intervention? Let us know what you think. And if you have a story of abuse, speak out for legislation.

Tell us your casino gambling story
While most seniors gamble without difficulty, a growing percentage of older adults are developing serious gambling problems. And they are doing so at a time in their lives when recouping financial losses can be very difficult, if not impossible. As mentioned in the article "Risky Business," many casinos are now targeting older adults as their “bread and butter” business. But is this right? What do you think of the casinos' pitch to the boomer generation? Do you gamble yourself? Tell us about your gambling trips and why you enjoy the activity.

Speak out to our political leaders
In the related opinion article in the AARP Bulletin, Lanny Davis, former special counsel to President Clinton, talks of the endless game of “gotcha” politics in Washington. But as Davis says, the American people have had enough. And if a candidate hopes to have a chance in 2008, he or she will need the ability to bring the left and right together to join a broad center focused on solving problems. Speak out to our political leaders and let them know what you think. Tell them what issues are important to you and how they should change their campaigns to reflect those issues, rather than destroying the political opposition.

What do you think of Alzheimer's clinical trials?
In the related article in the AARP Bulletin, scientists discuss final test results for the first in a whole new generation of drugs designed to attack the underlying cause of Alzheimer’s disease. And in certain clinical trials, some folks have experienced a remarkable turnaround while using these drugs. What do you think of these clinical trials? Do you know someone currently enrolled in a clinical trial for an Alzheimer’s drug? What experiences have you had with these new discoveries and success stories?

Should Congress increase SCHIP funding?
SCHIP came into being 10 years ago when Congress voted to give federal funds to states that set up health coverage programs for uninsured children who don’t qualify for Medicaid. SCHIP will expire on Sept. 30 unless Congress reauthorizes it. The program likely will be reauthorized, but the issue is the level of federal funding. Holding it to $5 billion a year—the amount set in 1997—would force many children off the rolls, advocates say. They want to at least double that amount to reach another 9 million uninsured children. What do you think? Should Congress increase funding? Or should states fund their own programs with a mix of Medicaid, SCHIP and state dollars? Join the discussion.

How do you feel about technologies designed to help you stay independent?
Discussed in the May 2007 issue of the AARP Bulletin, "Nana technologies" are new technological breakthroughs that may make it easier for people to stay independent as they grow older. Since many of them rely on monitoring or alert systems, there are privacy issues. Where do you draw the line between your privacy and needing help? How do you maintain privacy if you have systems in place to aid you in your home? Would you use some of these new technologies to help you stay in your home? Would you ask your parents to use a home-monitoring system?

Is the VA health care system in need of revamping?
The May 2007 issue of the AARP Bulletin examines the standards and procedures of veterans’ health care. The VA health care system is a strong one, once you cut through the red tape. What are some solutions for making this essential agency less bureaucratic? How can we help veterans receive the care they need and also prevent abuse? What is returning soldiers’ entitlement?

What do you think the solution is to the Social Security crisis?
Thomas N. Bethell’s article in the May issue of the AARP Bulletin contains eight different solutions that, individually or together, could help keep the Social Security system afloat. What are your thoughts on Social Security? What do you do to financially plan your own future? Do you expect to live on your Social Security? Do you think your children and grandchildren will benefit from Social Security? How can the system be revamped to provide more stability?

What does the '57 Chevy mean to you, now that it is turning 50?
As the ’57 Chevy Bel Air turns 50, the AARP Bulletin celebrates with a variety of interactive Bel Air features, including rare video footage from a '57 Chevy infomercial, a poll, and a "then & now" comparison. Take a road trip back in time, then share your fondest memories in this special message board.

What do you think of Bush's 2008 federal budget proposal?
In Elaine S. Povich's article "Bush’s Budget Proposal Contains Cuts to Benefit Programs," we learned about the proposed 2008 federal budget and what some members of Congress think of it. Specifically, the proposed budget would raise Medicare premiums for wealthier older Americans, cut heating assistance and strain the Children’s Health Insurance program. What are your thoughts on the proposal?

Should political ideology take a back seat to the needs of the country?
What if, in 2007, the president and the Democratic-controlled Congress successfully work together in passing legislation on priority issues but go against their party lines? Should political ideology be set aside for cases like this, or are there principles that shouldn't be compromised?

Which issues have not been properly addressed in Election 2006?
In the October 2006 cover story, "Seven Reasons to Vote," writer Elaine Povich reported on why no voter should stay home on Election Day 2006. But which issues do you feel have not been addressed sufficiently as the midterm elections approach? What topics would you like to see back on the political radar?

America's Dental Decay
In the September 2006 cover story, "Nothing to Smile About," senior editor Carole Fleck reported on the growing epidemic of dental disease in the United States. The article also touched on the mounting evidence that the bacteria and inflammation that accompany periodontal diseases may affect one's heart and body. Is the lack of affordable dental coverage a worry for you? Have you recently lost dental benefits or are you finding it harder to maintain good oral health after retirement? Share your thoughts and join in our discussion.

How Patriotic Are We?
In the article "How Patriotic Are We?" writer Reed Karaim reported on the results of a poll by the Bulletin on Americans’ feelings about their country. Fifty-seven percent of American adults identify themselves as “extremely” or “very” patriotic, the poll found, compared with 72 percent in a similar Gallup poll one year ago. What does patriotism mean to you? Is one person’s nationalism another’s extremism? Share your thoughts and join in our discussion.

Health Care for All
In the article "Health Care for All," author Patricia Barry reported that two states, Massachusetts and Vermont, have taken their health care dilemmas into their own hands and enacted universal coverage plans. So, will their initiatives point the way for other states or even the nation? After years of mounting evidence that the U.S. health care system has become dysfunctional, is it now time to consider universal health care for the United States? Share your thoughts and join in our discussion.

Organ Sharing
In the article "Winning the Waiting Game," authors Barbara Basler and Chad Hudnall reported on how many Americans are coping with the issue of organ transplants. Are you among the largest group of Americans, ages 50 to 64, awaiting a transplant? Share your thoughts about this rarely discussed emotional journey on our special message board.

Pills and Patents: Paying Twice For Drugs
In the related article from the AARP Bulletin, "Once Should Be Enough," author Katharine Greider reported how American consumers often pay twice for their prescription drugs—first to the U.S. government in the form of taxes spent on research, then to drugmakers holding lucrative patents. Is it time for drug pricing controls? What do you think of the two legislative proposals to remove the high profit incentives behind patent protection? Share your thoughts and observations, and join in our discussion.

How Has Your Health Improved With Exercise?
Nearly one in two Americans has exercised regularly for at least a year, according to a new AARP Bulletin poll. The vast majority of those who exercise do so to improve their health or combat stress. In the article "My Cardiac Club," Mike Edwards conveys his own experience with the benefits of finding the right exercise group. Join our virtual cardiac club and share your experiences and workout tips.

Did Your Former Employer Dump or Weaken Promised Retiree Health Benefits?
In the related article "Broken Promises," Reed Karaim examines how health benefits that retirees thought they could count on no longer resemble what they were originally. With companies cutting back on retiree health benefits, more and more former employees have to go it alone. What lies ahead for today’s workers? Did your former employer dump or weaken promised benefits? What did you do about it? Share your story.

How Would You Improve the Federal Tax Code?
In the related article in the AARP Bulletin, "Tax Champ," Paul Magnusson profiles Nina Olson, head of the Taxpayer Advocate Service at the IRS. Ms. Olson highlighted among the major problems in the tax code some that particularly affect taxpayers 50 and older. Americans don’t love the code, but they abide by it. Still, does it have to be such a mess? How would you improve the tax code? What was your most taxing tax tale? Share your thoughts and stories.

How Good Are Health Savings Accounts?
Health savings accounts: where do you stand? In the related faceoff article in the AARP Bulletin, two experts debated the issue of health savings accounts. Are HSAs simply a means to perpetuate the trend of shifting health care costs from employers to employees? Or will they be instrumental in holding down health costs for the average American? Join the debate.

How Should Malpractice Policy Put Patients First?
Most Americans acknowledge that the issue of medical malpractice should be addressed. In the related faceoff article in the AARP Bulletin, two experts debated how best to improve the situation for patients. How would you move the debate past the doctor/lawyer impasse? Share your thoughts.

How Would You Balance the Budget?
In the related article "Red Ink Rising" by Elaine S. Povich, we learned about the current federal budget and the mounting public anxiety over the growing deficit. In an AARP Bulletin poll conducted in January 2006 of adults 18 and older, 71 percent said they were "concerned" or "very concerned" about the budget deficit. The poll also listed eight possible ways respondents would reduce the budget. How would you balance the budget? Would you cut defense spending? Would you raise taxes for households earning over $100,000? Share your thoughts.

The Right to Die
In the November 2005 issue of the AARP Bulletin, Susan Jacoby examines how at the heart of the clash over helping a terminally ill person die are fervent, strongly held personal beliefs about religion, morality and medical ethics. Is the issue clear-cut to you? Or does the topic of assisted suicide demand a larger examination of end-of-life care in general?

Share Tips for Cutting Gasoline and Heating Costs
In the November 2005 issue of the AARP Bulletin, several readers share unique energy-saving tips in response to the previous month's cover story. Contribute your own creative and/or practical ideas in our special message board on the topic.

How Do You Answer the Age Question?
In the related article from the AARP Bulletin, author Pamela Redmond Satran worries that sharing her real age allows others to judge her life by their timetable. And so she either refuses to give her age or tells "a real whopper," claiming to be 17 or 108. How do you answer the age question?

Fantastic Feats
The three women—ages 56, 70 and 72—featured in the related AARP Bulletin article are thought to be the first people to bicycle on all seven continents. Have you or has someone you know accomplished something extraordinary? Share your inspiring story in this special message board.

What's Your Quirk?
Are you an "under" or "over" toilet paper person? Do you zip your pants and buckle your belt before you put your shirt on, only to have to unbuckle and unzip to tuck your shirt in? As the related AARP Bulletin article indicates, when it comes to idiosyncratic behavior, people do the darnedest things. In this special board, share your quirks and idiosyncrasies—remember, you are not alone!

How Would You Fix Social Security?
The most recent Social Security trustees' report shows that the system can pay all scheduled benefits until 2042. But that year, if no changes have been made, benefits would have to be cut about 30 percent to bring payments in line with incoming payroll taxes—thanks to a dwindling ratio of workers to retirees. (Read the related AARP Bulletin article for more background info.) Potential solutions range from raising the retirement age to increasing the wage cap on payroll taxes to enabling workers to set up private accounts that might increase their retirement benefits. How would you fix Social Security?

How Old Is Too Old?
Living to be 120 might be attainable, as the related AARP Bulletin article indicates, but it may not be desirable. In this special board, tell us how far you would go to extend your life—and how society might overcome problems associated with a larger population of older Americans in need of various services.

Caring for an Alzheimer's Patient
In the related article in the AARP Bulletin, scientists reveal new hopes for Alzheimer's treatments. But for caregivers of friends and family members already wrestling with the disease, "breakthroughs" come in the form of small ways to make life easier—taping a list of TV channels to the remote control, for instance, to limit the frustration of forgetting where to find a favorite show. What strategies do you employ as an Alzheimer's caregiver to help yourself or your loved one?

Dividing Your Family Belongings
Dismantling your family home and divvying up heirlooms is often a difficult task for all involved. Squabbles between relatives can quickly turn the chore into an emotional ordeal. Share your best stories and strategies from your own experiences dividing up the family's belongings.

What Do Tomorrow's Cars Really Need?
The related AARP Bulletin article about smart cars discusses high-tech gadgets that may make driving safer and more fun. Among other things, new features will warn you about potential collisions and allow you to control various functions with voice commands. What practical or whiz-bang feature would you add to tomorrow's vehicles if the automakers sought your input?

Share Your Dental Phobias and Cures
For many visitors to the dentist's office, the biggest fear is indeed fear itself. Drills and needles look and sound more painful than they really are—if you take certain steps to put your mind and mouth at ease. So start by getting your biggest dental phobia off your chest here, and add any helpful tricks that you use to overcome those fears.

What's Your Solution to Stopping Spam?
The related article in the AARP Bulletin considers a new anti-spam law and offers suggestions for reducing unwanted e-mail. Do you have creative ways of eliminating spam from your inbox?

Do We Need a Stronger Federal Law to Curb Junk E-Mail?
In the related faceoff article in the AARP Bulletin, two experts debate whether the Can Spam Act is strong enough to significantly reduce unwanted commercial e-mail. Does it fall short because consumers have to ask spammers to stop? Or does it create standards for legitimate marketing? Join the faceoff.

What Election-Year Issue Matters Most to You?
In the related AARP Bulletin article, the Democratic presidential candidates weigh in on the nation's health care system. Is this the most important issue to you, or are you paying more attention to the economy, national security, the environment or another issue?

Recovering From Identity Theft
Restoring your credit as an identity theft victim can be a long, frustrating ordeal. If you've succeeded at recovering from identity theft, please share your advice and lessons learned with fellow AARP members here.

Faceoff: Raise Taxes to Save State Programs
In the related faceoff article in the AARP Bulletin, two experts debate whether state taxes need to be increased in the name of education, health care and other programs. Must we choose between cutting programs or raising taxes? Or has state spending been out of control? Join the faceoff.

Faceoff: Effect of the Tax Cuts
In the related faceoff article in the AARP Bulletin, economic policy experts debate the effects of the recently passed tax cuts. Will they spur growth in jobs and the stock market? Or will they drive up budget deficits at the nation's expense in years to come? Join the faceoff.

Speak Your Mind About the Rx Drug Bills
Read the related AARP Bulletin article for details about the Medicare prescription drug benefit legislation being debated by Congress, then share your feedback here. Will the Senate and/or House bill(s) work for you? What's the biggest shortcoming? Is it good enough for starters? Or is it all so expensive and misguided that it shouldn't be passed at all? Speak your mind.

Faceoff: Should 'Faith-Based' Solutions Be Given a Chance?
In the related faceoff article in the AARP Bulletin, two ministers debate President Bush's faith-based initiative. Should the idea of public funding for faith-based social services be given the opportunity to prove its worth? One minister argues that denying faith-based organizations the right to participate in these programs denies them their constitutional rights; the other minister asserts that the faith-based initiative would force all Americans to support religious groups through taxes. Join the faceoff!

Faceoff: Should Consumers Be Allowed to Buy Rx Drugs from Canada?
In the related faceoff article in the AARP Bulletin, two experts tackle the tricky subject of importing prescription drugs from Canada. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration obviously can't guarantee the safety of Canadian products, but there's nothing safe about U.S. prescription drugs that you can't afford to take. What should be done?

Faceoff: Medicare Drug Discount Card
In the related faceoff article in the AARP Bulletin, two experts evaluate President Bush's proposal for a Medicare drug discount card. Would the plan deliver a meaningful benefit? One author argues that it would give the government valuable experience at managing a discount program; the other author asserts that the discount card merely would stall a broader drug benefit. Join the faceoff!

Faceoff: Eliminating the Tax on Dividends
In the related faceoff article in the AARP Bulletin, two experts evaluate the notion of eliminating the tax on dividends as a way to spur the economy. This issue is particularly important to older Americans who rely on dividends as a major source of income. Join the faceoff!

Solutions to America's Health Care Woes
The related AARP Bulletin article explores the many failures of America's health care system. Now, let's focus on a fix. Everyone seems to have a vision of a national health care program—what's yours? Share your outline of the best plan imaginable, and don't forget to indicate how it might be funded.

Faceoff: Easing the Social Security Tax
In the related faceoff article in the AARP Bulletin, two experts debate whether the federal government should ease Social Security payroll taxes to spark the economy. Indeed, a tax holiday may put more money in the hands of consumers, but is it really necessary? And would it endanger the Social Security program? Join the faceoff!

Grandparents' Rights
As reported in the related AARP Bulletin article, grandparents' visitation rights are being eroded by court cases across the country. How much control should parents have when it comes to visitation by grandparents, other relatives and even nonrelatives? What if the visitation is in the best interests of the child? Make your case here.

Faceoff: Should Congress Make the 2001 Tax Cut Permanent?
In the related faceoff article in the AARP Bulletin, two experts offer differing viewpoints on the wisdom of making the 2001 tax cuts permanent. Join the faceoff!

Faceoff: Is the Trend Toward 401(k)s a Good Idea?
In the related faceoff article, two experts debate whether 401(k) plans or traditional pensions are the better vehicles for workers' retirement funds. 401(k) plans put you in control of your money—but is that necessarily a good thing? Join the faceoff to share your opinions.

Faceoff: Is Enough Being Done to Control Unwanted Telemarketing Calls?
Nearly 30 states have passed no-call laws, and the FTC is considering a national no-call registry. But are these no-call laws—full of exceptions that permit many organizations to still call you—strong enough? Are they even the right way to address the problems associated with telemarketing? In the related faceoff article, two experts share their opinions. Now, join the faceoff to share your thoughts.

Hormone Replacement Therapy
After a recent study questioned the safety of hormone replacement therapy (HRT), many women are pondering whether to continue (or start) HRT. Share your questions, concerns and insights about HRT with other women here.

Faceoff: Drug Prices' Impact on R&D
The pharmaceutical industry asserts that price controls will cut into R&D spending—which, in turn, will hinder the rollout of blockbuster drugs. On the other hand, consumer advocates point to the drug makers' inflated profits, which allegedly could withstand price controls without affecting R&D. Does the threat of R&D cutbacks scare you? Join the faceoff.

Medicare Drug Benefit Proposals
Two leading Medicare drug benefit proposals have surfaced in Congress. Compare the proposals, then share your thoughts on each.

Can Aging Be Reversed?
Many older Americans believe in the power of various anti-aging remedies. Many doctors now claim such medicines really don't help—and may be dangerous. Will you heed their warnings?

Doctors and Medicare
The government has cut its reimbursement to doctors for Medicare services by 5.4 percent. What kind of effects—such as longer waits for appointments or rejections from physicians who now turn away all new Medicare patients—have the cutbacks had on you? And with health care providers pitting their demands for higher Medicare fees against older Americans' demands for prescription drug coverage, is there a healthy solution to Medicare's problems? Share your experiences and insights.

Coping Without Health Insurance
More than 5,000 readers shared their feedback about coping without health insurance with the Bulletin for our February 2002 article. Now, here's your chance to share your thoughts, feelings, tips and concerns with each other.

Do-It-Yourself Health Care
More and more Americans are taking health care into their own hands. In some cases, it's a practical approach that eliminates strain on the country's health care system. In other cases, it's a dangerous practice that costs lives. How many of your health problems do you treat yourself? When is it time to go to the doctor? How do you convince a stubborn spouse to get a checkup?

Faceoff: Big Government
The war on terrorism has expanded the role of government, which is fighting wars abroad, tracking anthrax domestically, stimulating the economy, and supporting the victims and families of the Sept. 11 attacks. Suddenly, big government seems like a good thing to just about everybody. But tell us: Is the era of big government back to stay?

Hard Times Drive Adult Kids 'Home'
When your adult children move back to the family home, it can be a rewarding experience for all—if you establish certain ground rules in advance to steer the new living arrangement. How has the presence of your adult children at home changed your life? How do you make it work? What's the biggest challenge?

Faceoff: Should Regulation of Dietary Supplements Be Toughened?
Some people worry that FDA regulation of dietary supplements doesn't go far enough to protect consumers. Others fear that more regulation will rob them of the tonics that they find harmless and important to them. Now, it's your turn to join the faceoff: Should regulation of dietary supplements be toughened? Speak your mind on our discussion board on this topic.

Protecting Yourself in a Rocky Economy
In the wake of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks, older Americans are reassessing their finances to account for falling stock values, shrinking interest rates and an uncertain future. For some folks, that means taking a new job—or pushing back planned retirement. For others, it simply means tinkering with their investment portfolios. What steps have you been forced to take to maintain financial security?

50-Plus Workers Hit by Cutbacks
Getting laid off after dozens of years on the job—perhaps with the same company—can be quite a shock. And, unfortunately, finding a new job isn't always so easy. Have you or has someone you know been laid off? Share your challenges, tips and observations from your own job search here on our discussion board.

Medicare: New Road?
Changes to Medicare are inevitable. In the future, you might get more services. You might pay more. And you might use a completely different program. What does Medicare reform really mean to you? Share your personal experience with Medicare—and your opinion on what should happen next.

Aid for Older Drivers
Statistics show that older drivers, especially those 75 and older, have more accidents per mile driven and suffer more serious injuries than drivers in other groups. Should states strengthen medical screenings and other checks at license renewal time for older drivers? Should doctors have a larger say in whether a person can still drive? Will changes to traffic signals and road signs help? Join our discussion to share your views and see what others think.

Is Social Security Really Broken?
Would your Social Security retirement funds be safe in the stock market? A big portion of workers already have invested retirement money in 401(k)s and union or employer pension plans. And they've seen a lot of those savings evaporate in the past year as stocks tanked. At present, Social Security is a guaranteed base of income and an insurance plan on which we all rely. How much risk would you be willing to accept to privatize part of this program?

Brave New World (Stem Cell Research)
President Bush's decision to provide federal funding for embryonic stem cell research, yet limit the funding to research using existing cell lines, has pushed the stem cell debate onto the front pages. Proponents say the funding limits are a bad idea that will slow down the promise of cures for diseases such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's. Others say, because embryos must be destroyed to extract stem cells, all funding should be cut and stem cell research should be halted on moral and ethical grounds. Do you support President Bush's compromise decision? Does it go too far or not far enough?