Save on Dishwashing

To wring the most savings you can from your dishwasher, use the lowest (briefest) setting and don't pre-rinse. If you are concerned about dried-on food staying on the dishes, do what we do. Put the dishes on the floor and let the pets lick them clean (only if you didn't have onions or other foods that are not good for pets)! Also, we put dishes in the sink, briefly, and let the water that runs over them as we wash our hands and do other chores rinse them automatically.

Unplug to Save Energy

Another good tip from AARP: To save electricity, unplug appliances when not in use. Many of these devices still use electricity even when turned off (like computers), up to 75% of the amount when in full use! An added bonus: You'll reduce your exposure to EMFs (electromagnetic fields), a suspected carcinogen.

Spice Reduces Depression Symptoms

The latest AARP magazine issue highlights a way to reduce depression naturally: Increase your intake of the spice saffron. A 2007 study showed that taking this herb twice a day worked just as well as Prozac in controlling symptoms of mild to moderate depression. If you don't like the spice, try taking a supplement. It's cheaper and better for you than prescription medication (and tastier, too).

It's Never Too Late to Start Lifting Weights

According to Consumer Reports magazine, the primary reason older people wind up in nursing homes is the lack of muscle strength in their hip flexors, which enables one to rise from a seated position. After age 50, muscle mass declines precipitously. However, there's hope. Anyone can stave off this decrease in muscle by lifting weights two to three times per week. Even people in their nineties can derive real benefit. Weight lifting also encourages bone density. Check with your doctor before beginning any exercise program, but don't put it off: Stronger bones and muscles translates into better health, better quality of life and fewer medications and doctor visits!

Take Good Care of Your Eyeglasses

Most (if not all) eyeglass lenses manufactured today are made of some type of plastic, which makes them lightweight and less costly. Unfortunately, plastic scratches easily. Scratched lenses are virtually useless, so if you want to extend the time between having to purchase new lenses of the same prescription. Try these tips:

-Never place your glasses lens-down on any surface. Whenever possible, place them inside a case when they are not in use.

-Don't dry-wipe your lenses, even with those special cloths opticians provide. Always use soap and water to clean them, and blot, don't wipe, the lenses dry.

-Never, even for one second, place your glasses where they might be knocked to the floor or sat upon. Hang onto them, even if it makes taking your sweater off a bit more awkward. You'd be surprised how many glasses get crushed when the wearer forgets he or she put them down "just for a second"!

Treat Your Hair to a Conditioner-Shampoo

If your hair is dry or tends to frizz, try washing your hair with only conditioner every other time you normally shampoo. The conditioner will clean your hair well enough, and won't strip it of oils. This will help protect it from the elements as well as assist in "frizz" control.

Keep Colored Clothing Vibrant Longer

You don't need expensive (and polluting!) laundry additives to keep your colored clothes bright and reduce fading. Simply add a bit of table salt to the wash - I add about 1/4 teaspoon to each load. I keep a container of non-iodized salt right on the laundry shelf for this purpose. You can't get much cheaper than that!