Florida - Sarasota, Manatee, Charlotte Counties

Charlotte, Manatee & Sarasota

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Amanda Barton

Publisher's Note


I'm Amanda Barton your local Publisher. Please let me know how I can help you. We are Sarasota, Manatee, and Charlotte Counties most comprehensive and reliable source to find and compare Senior Housing such as Retirement Communities, Assisted Living, Memory Care, and Skilled Nursing. Health at Home options like Home Health Care, Non-Medical Home Care, Hospice and Senior Resources, and Activities and Entertainment. Whether you are looking for resources, looking to promote your business, or just want to know what's happening around town, the Seniors Blue Book website is your go-to! Our healthcare system is difficult to navigate, throw in insurance and legal issues on top, and then manage it all in a crisis… no one should have to do it alone. Let me help you. Call 941-351-3630 or email me today!  Thank you for using Seniors Blue Book, enjoy!

Florida - Sarasota, Manatee, Charlotte Counties

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Florida - Sarasota, Manatee, Charlotte Counties

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Local Seniors Blue Book News

Activities & Events In Your Area

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Apr 25, 2024 02:00 PM - 04:00 PM

Luau Open House

Get a taste of the resort lifestyle and join us for a Luau !  Enjoy live entertainment and tasty bites to transport you to the tropics.  

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Local Aging Options

Interim Healthcare of Sarasota

Home Health 3231 Gulf Gate Dr., Ste. #202, Sarasota, Florida, 34231

At Interim HealthCare, we understand how important it is to have someone you can depend on when you or someone you love wants to stay at home to maintain the highest level of health and independence. Our mission is to improve people's lives and that is what we do every day. With a broad range of home care expertise, our trained professionals offer comprehensive home care and supportive services that are cost-effective and highly personalized. Whether you need help for a short time after you come home from a hospital stay or you need assistance in doing some of the tasks of daily living, Interim HealthCare is here for you and your family. Were ready to listen to what you need and to talk with you about the many services and care we can provide. If you are looking for people you can trust, please call us first. When it matters most, count on us.

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WeCare Senior Relocation Services, LLC

Move Management & Organizing Services 870 South McCall Road Ste. 6, Englewood, Florida, 34223

Making a move at any age can be difficult and stressful. After 30, 40, or even 50 years in your current home, the process of rightsizing and relocating to a new home is overwhelming. WeCare Senior Relocation Services offers assistance in relocating seniors to Independent Living, Assisted Living, and internal moves within a senior living community. Our team of Senior Move Managers can help you or your family members decide what to take with them to their new home to ensure their safety, assist with creating a floor plan,  determine what you should donate or gift to friends and relatives, packing, unpacking, as well as the physical move. Our main goal is to curate your new home so you or your loved one can quickly settle in and start enjoying life's next chapter. Allow us to alleviate your stress and anxiety by carrying the burden of coordinating your move so that you can feel relief and joy going into the upcoming move. So remember, "WeCare about your move, so you don't have to!"

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Suncoast Technical College

Life Long Learning 4445 Career Lane, North Port, Florida, 34286

Our faculty and staff members provide rigorous and challenging state-of-the-art career and technical programs, as well as high quality academic programs that prepare our students with the knowledge, skills and behaviors demanded by Sarasota area employers and colleges. Our staff members are focused on your success and will work with you to accomplish your goals. Our career and technical programs are developed in partnership with Sarasota area businesses. Our academic programs are based on community members input and their demonstrated needs. Suncoast Technical College programs are designed with the economic development of the community in mind.

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Grey Matters: Precision Brain Health Centers

Memory Preservation 950 South Tamiami Trail Ste 210, Sarasota, Florida, 34236

Brain health is the most important measurement to have a healthy quality of life. We are the first clinic to combine comprehensive, primary care with Dr. Dale Bredesens protocols to offer a solution for living a longer, independent life. The Bredesen protocols focus on the prevention, treatment, and reversal of cognitive decline. We start with a series of tests and screenings to determine your current cognitive status, and what your potential risks of cognitive decline may be. Then our clinical team and Dr. Bredesen work together to develop a personalized care plan to not only treat your current risks, but also focus on your overall health. This program is for those who want to prevent, treat, or reverse any cognitive decline.

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Articles Written By Local Businesses

The Benefits of Music for Seniors

Music can bring back memories and affect moods. It is a hallmark of celebrations. One song can take you to your childhood while another finds you on the shores of a Hawaiian island. For seniors who may find themselves alone more often than not, music can offer not only mood enhancement, but mental benefits as well. Studies  Confirm A study conducted at UC Irvine showed a correlation between music and memory. Alzheimers patients improved their scores on memory tests when they listened to classical music. Other studies reveal weekly music lessons and practice also improved memory in the elderly. The National Endowment for the Arts reported improvement in mental and physical health among the elderly along with strengthening social networks when involved in art. Beginning Many elderly hesitate to pick up an instrument for the first time, holding the belief that they are just too old to learn something that can take years, if not decades, to master. The truth is that learning a mentally demanding skill like a new musical instrument improves cognitive functioning. Choice As there can be an initial high-learning curve, passion is an important element to consider and one that will keep your loved one picking up the instrument even when frustrated. What instrument called to them in their younger years, but they never took the time to investigate learning it? If theyre uncertain, visit a local music store where they have demos. Consider renting an instrument for your parent until youre sure this will be a lasting endeavor. Music to Soothe the Soul For those that have no desire to play an instrument, music can still play an important part in their well-being. Help them create a playlist on a music streaming service. The art of putting songs together and choosing different mood categories can fill them with anticipation, both to create and to enjoy. Classes Many senior community centers offer music classes as well as instruction in other arts. Your local AARP and adult education centers will have information on classes geared to the elderly. Finding a class atmosphere as compared to a one-on-one learning environment helps seniors connect with other like-minded individuals and expand their social network. A senior care provider can assist with transportation to classes or help set your loved one up with their own music playlists.

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What to know about HSAs and FSAs

Paying for health care can be challenging but are you taking full advantage of all the resources available to you?You might have access to a Health Savings Account (HSA) or a Flexible Spending Account (FSA), so lets look at both.An HSA is a personal savings account used to pay health care costs. If youre enrolled in a high-deductible health plan, you also may be eligible to contribute to an HSA. You arent taxed on the money you put into this account or on the earnings generated from your contributions, as long as withdrawals are used for qualified health care costs such as deductibles, copayments and coinsurance. And theres no use it or lose it provision with HSAs the money stays in your account until you use it. In fact, you can carry your HSA with you all the way until retirement, when you can use the money to pay for qualified expenses that Medicare or Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap) doesnt cover. In 2023, you can contribute up to $3,850 to an HSA, or $4,850 if youre 55 or older; for family coverage, you can put in up to $7,750.            Its important to keep in mind that your HSAs tax benefits only apply when your withdrawals are used for qualified heath care costs. If you use the money for non-qualified expenses, it is considered taxable income, and you may also face a penalty of 20% on the amount withdrawn. However, once you turn 65, you can use your HSA funds for any purpose without a penalty, though the withdrawals will still count as taxable income.            Now, lets turn to the Flexible Savings Account. An FSA may be available to you if you get health insurance through your employer. And because you fund your FSA with pretax dollars, your contributions can reduce your taxable income. (In 2023, you can contribute up to $3,050 to an FSA.) Your employer may also choose to contribute to your FSA. Once your account is funded and active, you submit claims with proof of your medical expenses, along with a statement that these expenses arent covered by your plan, and you can be reimbursed for your costs.              Its helpful to have a good estimate of your yearly medical expenses for a Flexible Savings Account. Thats because an FSA generally needs to be spent before the end of the plan year if you dont use all the money, you can only carry over some of it and any remaining balance is forfeited. (You can carry over up to $610 from 2023 into 2024.)You can't contribute to an HSA and a traditional FSA in the same year. But if you have an HSA, you might be able to use whats known as a Limited Purpose Flexible Spending Account (LPFSA) for dental and vision expenses. Youll need to check with your plan to see if this option is available. Managing your health care expenses should be a key part of your overall financial strategy so consider putting an HSA or FSA to work for you.Chad Choate III, AAMS828 3rd Avenue WestBradenton, FL  34205Phone: 941-462-2445chad.choate@edwardjones.com      This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor.        Edward Jones, Member SIPC

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Tips for Breast Cancer Prevention

As you may have guessed from the pink merchandise flooding the stores, October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. What you may not realize is that breast cancer is the second most common cancer for women in the United States, right behind skin cancer. Breast cancer research has resulted in the development of many new treatments that have saved countless lives. However, the best possible outcome would be learning how to prevent breast cancer from ever occurring in the first place.! Fortunately, there are steps you can take toward preventing breast cancer in your own life. Studies have shown that certain lifestyle changes make a big impact and can decrease the risk of breast cancer even in women who are considered high-risk.What You Should Know About Breast CancerBreast cancer begins in the breast, but it can spread when cancer cells enter the bloodstream or lymphatic system and are transported to other parts of the body. Lymph nodes are part of the lymphatic (or lymph) system, which carries lymph fluid through tissues and into the blood. The lymph fluid contains immune system cells, along with tissue by-products and waste materials. With breast cancer, cancer cells begin to grow in the lymph nodes around the breasts. These small glands are located under the arm, near the breastbone, and around the collar bone. When cancer spreads from the breast to the lymph nodes, theres an increased risk that it will metastasize (spread) to other parts of the body.Breast Cancer VarietiesTypes of breast cancer are determined by the specific kind of cells that are affected. The most common breast cancers are carcinomas. Once a biopsy is done, the doctor will test the cells for proteins called estrogen or progesterone receptors, and for the HER2 gene or protein. At the same time, the tumor cells will be examined in the lab to determine the grade of tumor. Knowing the specific proteins and tumor grade is important for determining the stage of cancer and the best options for treatment.Early Diagnosis Is CrucialCatching breast cancer early is an important part of successful treatment. Thats why its vital to check for lumps and changes to your breasts, have regular checkups, and get mammograms and other screenings when your doctor recommends it. The risk of breast cancer increases with age, and for women over 70, theres a 1 in 24 chance of developing breast cancer, according to the National Cancer Institute. Treatments are highly individualized, and healthy, active, independent patients are most likely to experience a good outcome.Lifestyle Changes Can HelpWhether your focus is the prevention of breast cancer, or youve already had a diagnosis and want the best possible outcome, a healthy lifestyle is a crucial component of good health, regardless of your age. Here are some steps you can take to live a healthier life, and reduce your risk of breast cancer.Dont smoke. Smoking doesnt just raise your breast cancer risk; it increases the risk of at least 15 cancers! Additionally, smoking is linked to heart disease and stroke. One of the best things you can do for your overall health is to avoid smoking or quit if youre already a smoker.Limit alcohol consumption. Research indicates that drinking alcohol increases the risk of breast cancer, and the more you drink the higher your risk. Even small amounts can raise your risk, so stick to one drink or fewer per day.Be careful with hormonal treatments. Hormone therapy can increase the risk of breast cancer, particularly if its taken for more than three to five years. If you and your doctor decide that short-term hormone therapy is the best option for you, take the lowest dose of hormones that works for you. A common question is whether birth control pills have an impact on breast cancer risk. Before 1985, birth control pills had higher estrogen levels than they do now. This was linked to a slight increase in breast cancer risk, though that risk level returned to normal 10 years after discontinuing birth control. Todays birth control pills have not been linked to an increased breast cancer risk.Women who breastfeed have a reduced risk of cancer. Breastfeeding a baby for at least one year can help lower the risk of breast cancer, and the longer you nurse, the higher the level of protection will be.Avoid radiation as much as possible. Make sure that you only get procedures involving radiation when its absolutely necessary, as these medical imaging tests have been linked to breast cancer.Maintain a healthy weight. Being overweight increases the risk of breast cancer and other medical issues. Obesity that happens after menopause is particularly significant for breast cancer risk. Staying at a healthy weight will not only reduce your risk of breast cancer but will also help your overall health.Stay active. Exercise is a great way to keep your weight in check, and research shows that women who walk 30 minutes each day have a reduced risk of breast cancer. According to the Department of Health and Human Services, 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity are recommended each week, along with strength training twice a week.Eat a nutritious diet. Are there foods that prevent breast cancer? Not necessarily, but a diet full of nutrients can reduce your risk, and it also helps decrease the risk of diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. The Mediterranean diet is an excellent example, focused on fruits and vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, lean proteins, and healthy fats.

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Senior Health: Tips for Eye Health & Nutrition

For more information on Harborchase, Click Here.Your eyes play a significant role in your life, making it crucial that you pay attention to their health. As we age, our eyes can become more susceptible to developing certain ailments that can impair vision.Maintaining eyesight is an integral part of senior health, as your vision can help support independence. HarborChase Senior Living, with retirement communities throughout the United States, knows how independence, or lack of, can impact a retirees lifestyle. We want to highlight senior eye health, as well as ways to maintain and protect your eyesight.Nutrition and Eye HealthPeople often believe that failing eyesight is an inevitable result of aging or eye strain. In truth, a healthy lifestyle can significantly reduce the risk of eye health problems (Medical News Today).Your diet can impact your overall health as well as the health of your eyes. There are a variety of foods that can benefit eye health and positively impact your overall well-being. For example, foods that are rich in antioxidants and vitamins A and C play a vital role in maintaining our eyesight and health.Nutrients such as omega-3 fatty acids also play a significant role in the health of our eyes and eyesight. Omega-3 fatty acids, commonly found in fatty fish (salmon, tuna, herring, mackerel, etc.), have properties that are important to the condition of the macula(functional center of the retina). If the macula deteriorates due to a lack of proper nutrients, a person can experience blurry vision.Red peppers, sunflower seeds, nuts, sweet potatoes, and leafy greens all contain vitamins and nutrients that can help maintain and strengthen eyesight.According to the American Optometric Association, the following vitamins and nutrients are also key to the health of our eyes:Lutein & Zeaxanthin- Found in green leafy vegetables and eggs ,studies show that these nutrients reduce the risk of chronic eye diseases, including age-related macular degeneration and cataracts.Vitamin C- An antioxidant found in fruits and vegetables, vitamin C lowers the risk of developing cataracts and also, when taken in combination with other nutrients, can slow the progression of age-related macular degeneration.Vitamin E- Another powerful antioxidant, vitamin E is found in nuts, fortified cereals, and sweet potatoes and studies indicate it can protect cells in the eyes from unstable molecules called free radicals, which can break down healthy tissue.Long-Term Oxidative StressOxidative stress is defined as an imbalance of free radicals and antioxidants in the body, which can lead to cell and tissue damage. While oxidative stress occurs naturally, some factors may increase a persons risk of long-term oxidative stress, including:Diets high in fat, sugar, and processed foodsSmoking cigarettes or other tobacco productsCertain medicationsPollutionMaking certain lifestyle and dietary changes may help reduce oxidative stress. These may include maintaining a healthy body weight, regularly exercising, and eating a balanced, healthful diet rich in fruits and vegetables (Medical News Today).Protect Your EyesResearch shows that long-term exposure to the sun with no protective eyewear can cause cataracts. When spending time in the sun, you should always remember to protect your eyes from UV rays with appropriate eyewear. A large hat with a protective brim can also assist with protecting and shielding your eyes from the harsh rays of the sun.Beyond the sun, more and more people are spending time on digital devices, such as smartphones or tablets. Harmful blue light can impact your eye health and ability to get quality sleep. If you already wear glasses, be sure to speak with your doctor about incorporating blue light blocking technology to your current prescription (Blu Tech).Exercise & Eye HealthExercise improves blood circulation, which helps improve oxygen levels to your eyes, removing toxins and promoting healthier eyesight. Aerobic exercises can help lower intraocular pressure(pressure in your eyes), which helps protect the retinal ganglion cells. Walking, yoga, and stretching can all be effective and easy methods that promote senior health and prevent eye conditions like glaucoma.Frequent Visits to an OptometristThe most obvious best practice for maintaining eyesight and senior health is to visit an optometrist frequently. As our eyes and vision change, we require different lenses to help protect our eyes from unnecessary strain. An optometrist will ensure you have the appropriate strength lenses and can provide steps or instructions to protect or maintain your eyesight.Lifestyle changes such as diet, exercise, and healthy habits can improve all aspects of senior health, including eyes and eyesight.

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Local Business Videos

The Right Senior Living Solution Referral Agency & Advocacy is here for you!

Hi we are George and Adele Smith and we have over 30 years of combined senior living experience and the seniors we serve have become our life passion. We started in senior living as on-site live in managers in Pennsylvania and fell in love with the seniors we were so fortuanate to call family. Our love of serving seniors has seen us work in nearly every aspect of senior living, from Administrators and Sales Directors to Traveling Senior Living Operations and Sales Specialists. This has never felt like a job to us and we feel so blessed every day to help and assist what we refer to as our national treasures Our Seniors!!!

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Partner Spotlight: HomeWell Care Services

HomeWell Care Services is known across Florida and beyond for providing in-home care that focuses on safety, comfort, and companionship. We have a team of Personal Assistants who are genuinely passionate about being there to help Venice seniors keep their independence and dignity as they age. If your elderly loved one cannot stand the idea of being in an assisted living center, or if you do not have the resources to move them into your own home, call HomeWell Care Services at (941) 303-5642 to see how our Venice senior care services can help.

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Managing Caregiver Stress | Dr. Macie Smith SYNERGY HomeCare Series

Professional, trained, insured and background screened caregivers matched to your loved one's needs. Services include personal care assistance, companionship, meal preparation, medication reminders, transportation and errand assistance, light housekeeping and respite for family members. Free in-home consultation. No Contracts, Just Care.941-483-9111

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Job Opportunities Near You

FT Membership Director/Sales position

Town Square Sarasota, 3883 Central Sarasota Square Blvd. is looking for a FT Membership Director/Sales position for a fun and faced paced environment!  Help families and their loved ones find the solution of an innovative Adult Day Program!   Want to find joy in your career?  Work normal hours?  Call Jill today at 941-336-5061 or send your resume to jgrinnell@townsquare.net. We are also looking for FT and PT Program (Activity) Assistant's and Personal Care Assistants.

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Business Development Manager

The Business Development Manager will handle the networking and development of referral resources within the Senior community. Marketing the business (visiting properties, events, clinical sites) Perfect for a retiree or someone with some social services experience within the hospitals, Hospice or SNF industry. Only 8-10 hours per week to start. Base salary plus commission offer.  Areas of interest are Port Charlotte, Englewood, Venice.  Contact Gisel Garcia at 239-990-1949

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Home Health Aides (HHA) and CNA's

 Youthful Aging Private Duty Home Care has immediate openings for Home Health Aides (HHA) and CNAs for Short Shifts.Qualifications:Valid Driver License, reliable personal vehicle, and Proof Insurance?Authorized to work in the United States?CNA/HHA license or certification (or can you pass the HHA Competency Test)Job Duties:CompanionshipMedication RemindersAssist to walk, sit, and/or standMonitoring changes in health or behaviorMeal preparationPersonal hygiene (bathing, toileting, dressing, etc.)Light housekeepingTransportation for shopping and/or doctor appointmentsEOEJob Type: Part-timeSalary: $18.00 per hour

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