Financial Planning Through the Ages

Art challenges the brain to think creatively, analyze and observe the incoming stimulant and form an opinion about what its seeing. But while its assessing the stimuli, it's forging new neuro pathways, improving cognitive function and evoking emotions, which leads to a healthier, happier brain. Studies show that the impact of art on the human brain is profound, so when the North Fort Myers Art Association (NFMAA) approached Gulf Coast Village, Cape Corals only life plan community, about starting an art gallery, a partnership was a natural fit. Details about where art should be hung and how residents could get involved commenced and they launched their first exhibit on Nov. 5, 2024. Over the past year, art has rotated on and off the walls with new collections from residents and members of the association, changing roughly every six weeks. The art that hangs encourages residents, family members and people from the community to slow down and think about what their neighbors and art association members create. Experiencing this consistent influx of new art improves their lifestyle. It's brought life to the hallway, and its a conversation point for our residents who live here. Each day, you can see people pausing in the hallway to review and talk about the art. The coolest thing is that the art not only features art from the association, but also from the residents who call Gulf Coast Village home.Residents arent just enjoying the art on the walls; theyre getting involved with the arts, too. A lot of residents have personal art studios in their apartments, said Sherrie Saidon, Gulf Coast Villages lifestyle coordinator for independent living and gallery curator. It [the partnership with NFMAA] definitely is a community builder.To mark one year of the partnership, the next exhibit, debuting on Nov. 19, will be called Celebration!, a nod to anything worth celebrating especially this impactful relationship. From 2 to 3 p.m., the event will feature a new cycle of art and a meet-and-greet with local artists, and the public is invited to attend.The exhibits featured artist, Judy Biddle, president of NFMAA, has been celebrating art since a young age. When I was about 4 years old, my mother gave me a few coins, which I promptly held up to the frosted window of our Chicago apartment, rejoicing in the myriad of scenes created by the different sizes of circles in the ice on the window, said Biddle.She has been rejoicing in art ever since. This exhibit will be a continuation of Biddles and other artists commitment to celebration in art form. From new babies and weddings to fruitful partnerships, this exhibit will embody everything in life worth celebrating. To continue fostering their relationship as it approaches its one-year anniversary, Gulf Coast Village excitedly offered NFMAA a vacant building to turn into an art studio dubbed The Art House for the association, the community, and residents to participate in a variety of art classes, build friendships and celebrate each other for years to come.About the author Ryan Keller is the regional vice president of senior living operations for Florida for Volunteers of America National Services, the sponsoring organization for Gulf Coast Village. To learn more about Gulf Coast Village, please visit GulfCoastVillage.org or call 239-510-8712.

What Is the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period?If youre on Medicare or about to be, youve probably heard the term Annual Enrollment Period (AEP). It might sound complicated, but dont worry. Its actually pretty simple once you break it down and know what you need to focus on. Lets walk through what the Annual Enrollment Period is, why it matters, and how it gives you the chance to make sure your healthcare coverage is right for you and your healthcare needs.What Is the Annual Enrollment Period?The Medicare Annual Enrollment Period happens every year from October 15 to December 7. During this time, anyone with Medicare can make changes to their coverage. These changes take effect on January 1 of the following year.Think of it like a yearly check-up for your Medicare plan. Your health needs, medications, and budget change over time. AEP gives you the chance to adjust your coverage so it fits your life.What Can You Do During AEP?During the Annual Enrollment Period, you can: Switch from Original Medicare to a Medicare Advantage plan (Part C) Switch from a Medicare Advantage plan back to Original Medicare Change from one Medicare Advantage plan to another Join, drop, or switch Medicare Part D (prescription drug coverage) Basically, if youre not happy with your current coverage or just want to see if theres something better, this is the time to make changes. The Different Parts of Medicare ExplainedBefore we talk more about AEP, lets go over the different parts of Medicare. Understanding these parts makes it easier to know your options. Medicare Part A Hospital Insurance Helps cover inpatient hospital stays, skilled nursing facilities, hospice care, and some home health care. Most people dont pay a monthly premium for Part A because they or their spouse paid Medicare taxes while working.  Medicare Part B Medical Insurance Helps cover doctor visits, outpatient care, preventive services, and medical supplies. You pay a monthly premium for Part B.  Together, Part A and Part B are often called Original Medicare. Medicare Part C Medicare Advantage These are private health plans (offered by insurance companies) that combine Parts A and B, and often include Part D (prescription drugs). Many plans also offer extras like dental, vision, hearing, and fitness benefits, like SilverSneakers. You may need to use doctors and hospitals in the plans network. Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Coverage Helps pay for prescription medications. Plans are offered by private insurance companies, and costs can vary. Why the Annual Enrollment Period MattersYour health and needs can change from year to year. Maybe youre taking new prescriptions. Maybe your doctor is no longer in your plans network. Or maybe youve heard about a plan with extra benefits that would save you money. The Annual Enrollment Period is your chance to: Make sure your prescriptions are covered at a good price. Check that your favorite doctors are still in-network. Compare costs like premiums, co-pays, and deductibles. See if you can get extra benefits with a Medicare Advantage plan. Tips for Making the Most of AEP Review your Annual Notice of Change. Each fall, your plan will send a letter explaining whats changing for the next year. Dont skip it! Make a list of your current prescriptions and doctors. This helps you compare plans to see if they cover what you need. Think about your budget. Sometimes a plan with a low monthly premium ends up costing more in co-pays. Look at the big picture. Dont wait until the last minute. December 7 comes quickly, so give yourself time to review your options.  The Medicare Annual Enrollment Period is an important time each year for seniors. Its your opportunity to make sure your healthcare coverage still meets your needs. By understanding the different parts of Medicare and reviewing your options, you can feel confident that youre getting the care and benefits you deserve. VIPcare accepts most Medicare plans in your area, making it easy to get the care you deserve. Call us today at (239) 303-8010 to schedule an appointment and learn more about everything VIPcare has to offer.  

Living with Alzheimers disease is never easyneither for the individual nor for their family. As the disease progresses, symptoms can become more complex. One of the more difficult challenges many families face is psychosis associated with Alzheimers disease, which can include hallucinations and delusions. These symptoms add an additional layer of distress, making it harder for both patients and caregivers to manage daily life.But there is hope. Clinical research studies are underway to better understand and treat Alzheimers-related psychosis. Right here in Naples, Florida, Aqualane Clinical Research is offering an opportunity for eligible participants to join a study that may help move science forwardand bring comfort to families in the process.Why Alzheimers Psychosis MattersAlzheimers disease affects millions of older adults in the United States, and Florida has one of the largest aging populations in the nation. While memory loss is often the most recognized symptom, many people dont realize that nearly half of Alzheimers patients may experience psychosis at some stage of the disease.Psychosis in Alzheimers can present as: Hallucinations seeing or hearing things that are not there. Delusions firmly held false beliefs, such as thinking a loved one has been replaced by an impostor, or believing belongings are stolen. These symptoms can be frightening for both patients and caregivers, often leading to increased stress, caregiver burnout, and in some cases, the need for long-term care placement.Thats why clinical research in this area is so critical. By participating in a study, families not only gain access to potential new treatments but also play a role in advancing science for future generations.The Aqualane Clinical Research StudyAqualane Clinical Research, located in Naples, FL, is currently conducting a clinical research study focused on Alzheimers disease with psychosis. Their mission is to provide thorough, compassionate, and professional research opportunities that connect families with cutting-edge science.This study is designed to explore better ways to manage the moderate to severe psychosis that can accompany Alzheimers disease. Participation could mean contributing to the development of treatments that one day may improve quality of life for millions.Who Qualifies for the Study?Not everyone will be eligible, but the study has clear guidelines to help determine who may qualify. Participants must: Be between the ages of 55 and 90 years old. Have been diagnosed with mild to severe Alzheimers disease. Experience moderate to severe psychosis, including hallucinations and/or delusions. Have a caregiver who is able to: Attend all study visits. Report on the patients status. Oversee medication and treatment. Participate in some written study assessments. This last point is importantAlzheimers care is never a journey faced alone. Caregiver involvement ensures the study is carried out safely and effectively, while also giving caregivers a voice in the research process.What Participation Looks LikeMany families are understandably hesitant about research studies, worrying about time commitments or safety. Heres what you can expect if you qualify for this Alzheimers psychosis study: Initial Screening The research team will review the participants medical history, diagnosis, and symptoms to confirm eligibility. Regular Visits Participants and caregivers will attend scheduled appointments at the Naples location. Caregiver Involvement Caregivers provide important feedback about the patients status, medications, and quality of life. Comprehensive Support The research staff helps guide both the patient and caregiver through the process, answering questions and ensuring comfort. Clinical trials are carefully monitored for safety, and participants are treated with dignity and respect throughout.Why Consider a Clinical Research Study?For families living with Alzheimers disease, the day-to-day challenges can feel overwhelming. Participating in a study may offer: Access to potential new treatment options not yet available to the public. Close monitoring from experienced clinical professionals. Support for caregivers, who are often left to manage complex symptoms on their own. Contribution to medical progress, helping researchers develop treatments that may benefit others in the future. In addition, many participants and their families find meaning in being part of something largerknowing their involvement could help improve care for generations to come.The Role of CaregiversCaregivers are the backbone of Alzheimers care, and their participation in research is just as valuable as the patients. In this study, caregivers help track changes, ensure treatments are followed, and provide feedback to the research team.This partnership approach helps ensure the study results reflect real-world experiences, not just clinical outcomes. It also gives caregivers a chance to feel supported and included in the search for better solutions.Local Access: Naples, FloridaFor families in Southwest Florida, convenience matters. Aqualane Clinical Research is located right in Naples, making it easier for participants and caregivers to attend appointments without excessive travel.The address is: 3200 Bailey Ln, Suite 250, Naples, FL 34105For more information, you can call (239) 529-6780 to find out if you or someone you know may qualify.Frequently Asked QuestionsQ: Is there a cost to participate in this research study? A: No. Clinical studies generally cover the costs associated with participation, and some may offer additional compensation for time and travel.Q: Will I know if the treatment works? A: Clinical studies are designed to test new therapies, so results may vary. However, participants benefit from close medical monitoring throughout.Q: What if my loved one cant make all the visits? A: Caregiver participation is essential. If consistent attendance isnt possible, this study may not be the right fit, but the research team can help explore other opportunities.Q: Are clinical research studies safe? A: All clinical studies are carefully regulated and monitored for safety. Participant health and well-being are always the top priority.Bringing Hope Through ResearchAlzheimers disease takes a toll not only on memory, but also on independence, family relationships, and emotional health. When psychosis is involved, the challenges multiply. While there is no cure yet, progress continues every day thanks to research studies like this one.By joining this clinical trial, families in Naples and beyond can be part of the solutionhelping researchers develop better treatments while receiving support along the way.Take the Next StepIf you or someone you love is living with Alzheimers disease and experiencing hallucinations or delusions, now may be the time to consider participation in a clinical research study.To learn more or find out if you qualify, contact:Aqualane Clinical Research 3200 Bailey Ln, Suite 250, Naples, FL 34105 (239) 529-6780 Because together, we can turn todays challenges into tomorrows solutions.