A Guide to Accessible Home Buying

A Guide to Accessible Home Buying

How has the real estate industry changed over the past year? From full-time remote employment to social distancing measures, 2020 has been a year that constantly questioned the status quo and the way we interact with the world. The home buying process is one of the best examples of how a well-established procedure has adapted…

Employee benefits research starts with building empathy to better understand what employeess need from benefits

Earthquakes, Shooting Ranges and Employee Benefits Innovation

Inspiration for employee benefits research can come from unexpected places – like earthquakes and shooting ranges. In my work leading an innovation team, we use a variety of techniques to gain deeper insight into what an employee may experience while on disability leave or when enrolling in their benefits. Most absence and leave management companies…

The pandemic's affect on Social Security

COVID-19 and the Social Security Administration

Though COVID-19 threatens everyone, the elderly face the greatest peril, including – possibly –the United States Social Security Administration. SSA turned 85 years old in August 2020, and it is time to check in on how the pandemic is affecting the department.   Social Security administers retirement, Social Security Disability Insurance, survivor, Supplemental Security Income…

Bipolar disorder and disability benefits claims

Bipolar Disorder and SSDI

Bipolar disorder – sometimes known as “manic depression” – is a disorder of the brain. People with this disorder will often experience extreme shifts in levels of activity, mood and energy. Such extremes are referred to as manic and depressive episodes. Out of all bipolar disorder cases, 83% are classified as severe. Most cases of…

Man drills working on home project while dog watches

Check Your DI Before You DIY

Have you found yourself taking on a Do-It-Yourself project lately? Whether you’re painting a wall, replacing a kitchen counter top, or repairing the deck outside, you’re not alone. Millions of people working at home these days have started DIY projects.   Empty lumber shelves and back-orders for appliances in local and big box stores nationwide…