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As your parents reach retirement and prepare for an exciting
new chapter, it’s important to think long-term. One of the biggest choices
they’ll make is in regards to their living situation. Are they planning to stay
at home even if their care needs change? Do they have a plan for how they will
pay for in-home care and maintain their home? Or have they considered moving to
a senior living community to enjoy the stability and security such a choice
offers?
Though this is a question that must be addressed, the topic
can be difficult to broach. If you’re wondering how to get the conversation
started with your parents, read on for helpful tips and essential questions to
ask.
How to
Prepare for the Conversation
The way you approach discussing independent
living communities with your parents can contribute to how receptive
they are to the idea. Here are a few strategies to keep in mind:
6 Questions
to Ask Your Parents About Independent Living
Knowing the right questions to ask can help your parents
think about the possibilities
of moving to an independent living community and their must-have
features. Try these six questions to help guide the conversation.
1. Do you
ever feel lonely at home?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention, one-fourth
of adults 65 and older are considered socially isolated. In fact,
loneliness in older adults can lead to increased health risks like heart
disease and stroke. If loneliness is a factor for your parents, an independent
living community can provide opportunities to build
meaningful friendships later in life with others who share the same
interests.
2. Do you
feel safe at home?
Safety is an important consideration with age. Whether
that’s concerns about slipping and falling while doing home maintenance or
crime in the neighborhood, an independent living community offers solutions.
Independent living communities often include maintenance and landscaping and
there are security protocols in place.
3. Do you
have a plan if you need a higher level of care?
Studies show that 70%
of older adults will need a high level of long-term support and
services. Things like family history and current health can be strong
indicators to help plan for future needs. If access to care is a high priority,
it’s worth looking at Life
Care options. This type of senior living community guarantees access to
higher levels of health services within
that community, no matter how needs change over time.
4. What
would be most helpful to get assistance with?
Maintaining a large home can be a lot of work on your own.
For many older adults, the private
residences offered by independent living communities are much more
manageable. Instead of spending time cleaning and fixing issues, your parents
can spend that time pursuing their passions.
5. Would
finances be easier with a monthly bill for everything?
Another advantage of independent living communities is they
consolidate regular expenses into one predictable monthly fee. From select
meals at restaurant-style dining
venues, access to the fitness center and on-site social programs, most
services and amenities are included in their monthly fee.
6. How can I
help?
Finding the ideal living situation for your parents is the
priority. After sorting through their needs and understanding their challenges,
remind them you’re a resource they can rely on. Whether you’re helping to
schedule visits or just acting as a sounding board, let them know your desire
is to find what’s best for their long-term goals.
Explore Independent Living Options at Friendship Village of
South Hills
At Friendship Village of South Hills, our senior independent
living community is dedicated to helping residents get the most out of each
day. With a maintenance-free lifestyle and helpful services, every individual
can spend their time in the ways they find most meaningful.
If you’d like to learn more about what makes our Pittsburgh-area community so special, please don’t hesitate to reach out and contact us today.
Welcome to ONA Solutions Your Safe Space for a Fresh Start This June!As summer arrives and the days grow brighter, there's no better time to find a home that supports your peace of mind and personal growth. At ONA Solutions, we offer more than just affordable housing we provide a community where women feel safe, supported, and truly at home. Why Choose ONA Solutions?At ONA, every detail is designed with your comfort and safety in mind. Whether you're settling in for a new chapter or just need a peaceful place to land, were here for you. All Utilities Included One simple monthly payment, no hidden fees. Fast, Reliable Wi-Fi Stay connected, study, work, or stream with ease. Move-In Ready Clean, fully furnished rooms so you can feel at home from day one. Women-Only Housing Feel safe and supported in a space created exclusively for women. A Community That Welcomes YouOur doors are open to women from all walks of life. Whether you're starting over, downsizing, or simply looking for a calm and secure home, ONA Solutions is here for you.We proudly welcome: Female Veterans Retirees & Seniors SSI/SSDI Recipients Students & Educators (18+) Why Now? June is the Time to BloomThis month is all about new beginnings. With our limited openings and an unbeatable $75 move-in fee, June is the perfect time to claim your spot in a space designed for care, dignity, and comfort. Lets Get You Settled!Have questions or ready to take the next step? Our friendly team is here to help. Call Us: 9 AM 3 PM: (239) 688-4815 3 PM 5 PM: (239) 785-3315 DM us anytime were happy to chat when it works for you! Stay Connected: Facebook: ONA Solutions Instagram: @onasolutionsllc2024 LinkedIn: ONA Solutions LLC Website: www.onasolutionsllc.com Find More Than a Room Find a Home Come home to comfort, connection, and community. Come home to ONA Solutions.
Many married couples share almost everything, including finances. This may be reflected in their estate plan by using one joint living trust instead of two separate trusts. Separate trusts can provide greater flexibility, but a joint trust can be structured so that when one spouse passes away, the trust is split into two sub-trusts: a survivors trust and a decedents trust. This arrangement provides the surviving spouse with the same versatility that separate trusts offer. The surviving spouse has full control over their survivors trust, but may have limited control over the deceased spouses accounts and property that make up the decedents trust. Decedents Trust and a Survivors Trust A survivors trust is a middle ground between a joint trust and separate trusts. If a couple chooses to combine their assets (accounts and property) into a joint revocable living trust, both spouses will usually be named as trustees and beneficiaries. The joint trust can further stipulate that when one spouse passes away, the trust divides into subtrusts. One of those subtrusts can be a survivors trust. A second subtrust, the decedents trust, will also be created to hold and manage assets owned by the decedent. How a Survivors Trust Works A typical joint trust arrangement lists four types of property, depending on the state in which you live: Joint assets Community property First spouses separate property Second spouses separate property When the first spouse dies, the survivors trust receives one-half of the community property, one-half of the joint property, and all property identified as the separate property of the surviving spouse. The deceased spouses half of the community property and joint property, along with their separate property, may be funded into the decedents trust with its own set of instructions. The trust agreement could also state that all of the deceased spouses property will go into the survivors trust instead of going into a separate subtrust. Reasons to Have a Survivors Trust Regardless of exactly how the joint trust assets are allocated, a crucial distinction is that a survivors trust is revocable, while the decedents sub-trust is irrevocable. This means that the surviving spouse retains full control over the survivors trust. They can alter the terms of the trust however they want. For example, they can add and remove assets, change beneficiaries, appoint new trustees, or terminate the trust. The surviving spouse can also completely change the terms of the survivors trust in its entirety. While the surviving spouse may be the beneficiary of the decedents trust, the surviving spouse will likely have less control over the management of assets in the decedents trust. This allows the deceased spouse to put protective measures in place while they are alive to make sure that their assets are managed the way they want and that someone cannot change the rules after they pass away. This can be helpful for clients who are worried about their spouse remarrying after their death and to ensure that assets that remain at the surviving spouses death go to a predetermined person. The purpose of any trust is to take care of loved ones and protect assets from costly probate and taxes. To discuss an estate plan that meets your goals, please schedule your appointment with our Estate Planning attorneys - 724-375-4005.
Becoming eligible for Medicare is a significant milestone in your life. Whether you are newly turning 65 or approaching eligibility due to disability, understanding your Medicare options can feel overwhelming. With multiple parts, plans, and enrollment periods, making the right choice is essential to protect your health and finances.Thats where Inman Medical Insurance Services steps in helping Medicare-eligible individuals and their families navigate the complex landscape of Medicare insurance with clarity, confidence, and care.Understanding Medicare: A Quick OverviewMedicare is the federal health insurance program for people 65 and older, younger individuals with certain disabilities, and those with End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD). It consists of several parts: Medicare Part A (Hospital Insurance) covers inpatient hospital stays, skilled nursing facility care, hospice, and some home health care. Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance) covers outpatient services like doctor visits, preventive care, and some home health services. Medicare Part C (Medicare Advantage) plans are offered by private companies approved by Medicare and include Part A and B benefits, often with added perks. Medicare Part D (Prescription Drug Coverage) helps cover the cost of medications through private plans. Choosing the right combination of these parts depends on your health needs, budget, and preferences.Why Professional Guidance Matters When Choosing Medicare PlansMedicare is not a one-size-fits-all program. With dozens of Medicare Advantage and Part D plans available in many areas, it can be challenging to understand differences in coverage, premiums, deductibles, copays, and provider networks. Making an uninformed decision could mean paying more than necessary or missing coverage for services you need.Inman Medical Insurance Services offers personalized Medicare consulting to ensure you: Understand your Medicare benefits and options Identify plans that best fit your health needs and financial situation Avoid costly penalties by enrolling during the correct periods Navigate changes to your Medicare coverage over time This professional guidance saves time, reduces confusion, and empowers you to make decisions with peace of mind.Services Offered by Inman Medical Insurance ServicesAt Inman Medical Insurance Services, youll find a trusted partner with a deep knowledge of Medicare plans and regulations. Their services include:1. Medicare Eligibility CounselingIf youre turning 65 or recently became eligible due to disability, the team helps you understand when and how to enroll in Medicare, including your initial enrollment period and special circumstances.2. Medicare Plan Comparison and EnrollmentThey analyze available Medicare Advantage, Medigap (Medicare Supplement Insurance), and Part D prescription drug plans in your area. By comparing costs, coverage, and provider networks, they help you select a plan that fits your unique needs.3. Annual Medicare Review and Plan OptimizationMedicare plans can change year to year. Inman Medical Insurance Services offers yearly reviews during the open enrollment period (October 15 December 7) to ensure your plan remains the best option, or help you switch plans if needed.4. Assistance with Medicare Appeals and ClaimsIf you encounter coverage denials or billing issues, their experts assist with navigating appeals and resolving Medicare claims, reducing stress and ensuring your rights are protected.5. Education on Medicare Savings Programs and Financial AssistanceMany Medicare-eligible individuals qualify for programs that reduce costs, such as Medicaid, Extra Help, or state pharmaceutical assistance programs. The team helps you identify and apply for these valuable benefits.Who Can Benefit Most from Inman Medical Insurance Services? Newly Medicare-eligible individuals who want to start their coverage on the right foot. Current Medicare beneficiaries seeking to optimize their plan or save money. Caregivers or family members assisting loved ones with Medicare decisions. Anyone feeling overwhelmed by Medicare's complexity and needing personalized support. Why Choose Inman Medical Insurance Services? Experienced Medicare Specialists: Knowledgeable in local and national Medicare regulations. Personalized Service: Tailored recommendations based on your health, budget, and goals. Trusted Advisor: Committed to education, transparency, and ethical guidance. Local Presence: Familiar with regional plan options and resources in Pennsylvania. Ongoing Support: Available year-round for questions, enrollment, and plan changes. Medicare FAQs Answered by Inman Medical Insurance ServicesQ: When should I sign up for Medicare? A: Your Initial Enrollment Period begins three months before your 65th birthday, includes the month you turn 65, and ends three months after. Signing up during this window avoids late enrollment penalties.Q: Whats the difference between Medicare Advantage and Medigap? A: Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans are all-in-one coverage offered by private companies and often include extra benefits like vision or dental. Medigap plans supplement Original Medicare by covering out-of-pocket costs.Q: Can I change my Medicare plan every year? A: Yes. During the Annual Enrollment Period (Oct 15 Dec 7), you can switch Medicare Advantage plans or Part D prescription drug plans.Q: How can I reduce my Medicare costs? A: Programs like Medicaid, Extra Help for prescription drugs, and Medicare Savings Programs can lower premiums and out-of-pocket costs. Inman Medical Insurance Services helps you find and apply for these.Take the Next Step Toward Medicare ConfidenceNavigating Medicare can be complicated, but you dont have to do it alone. Let Inman Medical Insurance Services guide you through the process with clarity and confidence. Their expert support ensures you select the right plan for your needs and budget, now and in the years ahead. For personalized Medicare help and a no-obligation consultation, call us today at 724-306- 8802. 6-8802
Dignified, Compassionate Memory Care for Your Loved OneNavigating the journey of memory loss is never easy, but finding the right support can make all the difference. When memory care is done right, it provides more than safety and routineit restores dignity, encourages connection, and helps loved ones thrive in ways that matter most. Thats exactly what families find at this serene and supportive memory care community in the hills just outside Pittsburgh.Set in a peaceful neighborhood, this specialized memory care environment offers seniors living with Alzheimers or other forms of dementia a warm, secure place to call homewhere every detail is thoughtfully designed to promote comfort, calm, and connection.A Safe and Familiar EnvironmentThe memory care neighborhood is purposefully designed to feel like home while providing built-in safety features that offer peace of mind to both residents and their families. Private suites include accessible bathrooms, space for cherished personal belongings, and a layout that makes moving around easier and less confusing.Residents are encouraged to decorate their living spaces with familiar items that spark memories and provide comfort. Every inch of the environment is created with both security and serenity in mindbecause those with memory challenges thrive best in spaces that feel warm and predictable.Secure entrances, 24/7 on-site nursing support, and a compassionate caregiving team ensure that loved ones are protected while still maintaining as much independence as possible.Personalized Care Plans Rooted in RespectNo two people experience memory loss the same way. Thats why care plans are customized based on individual needs, preferences, and routines. The experienced team works closely with families to understand each residents history, lifestyle, and personality. From daily care needs to preferred activities and favorite meals, every detail matters.Residents receive assistance with daily tasks such as bathing, grooming, and medication management, all delivered with the utmost kindness and respect. As needs change, the care evolves right along with themalways delivered by professionals trained in dementia-specific support.Purposeful Engagement, Every DayOne of the most important aspects of effective memory care is maintaining purpose and joy in daily life. Residents benefit from a wide range of activities specifically designed to support cognitive function, reduce anxiety, and build meaningful moments.Daily programs include music therapy, guided exercise, art classes, pet visits, baking groups, and memory-based games. Theres also a beautiful enclosed memory gardena favorite retreat for both relaxation and gentle activity. The garden is secure yet open to the beauty of nature, encouraging fresh air and calming experiences.These intentional activities not only keep residents engaged but help strengthen emotional connections and preserve dignity, no matter where they are in their journey.Support That Extends to FamiliesMemory loss affects more than the individualit touches the entire family. This community recognizes that and makes a special effort to support family caregivers and loved ones through every step. From open communication and care meetings to support groups and educational resources, families never have to feel like theyre going it alone.Youll always know how your loved one is doing, and the care team remains available for guidance, questions, or simply a listening ear. Its a partnershipone rooted in empathy, trust, and a shared commitment to doing whats best for your loved one.An Uplifting Environment with Exceptional AmenitiesResidents in memory care also enjoy access to comforting amenities that enhance daily life. There are common areas for music and movie nights, cozy gathering spaces for small group visits, and wellness-focused programming that addresses the mind, body, and spirit.Meals are prepared with care and served in an inviting dining room, designed to reduce confusion and promote a relaxed, enjoyable experience. Dining staff are trained in serving techniques that support dignity and autonomy while offering appropriate assistance when needed.Other amenities such as an on-site salon, activity rooms, and thoughtfully planned outdoor spaces allow residents to continue enjoying the little things that bring them happiness.A Continuum of Care That Brings Peace of MindThis community isnt just a place for todayits a place for the future. As part of a full-service senior living campus, memory care residents benefit from seamless access to a full continuum of care, including rehabilitation, skilled nursing, and even hospice services if needed down the road.This means residents can remain in familiar surroundings and receive consistent care from a team they know and trust. For families, this long-term stability offers unmatched peace of mind, knowing that their loved ones needs will always be met without another stressful move.A Community Where Your Loved One Can Truly BelongCompassionate memory care is more than just a serviceits a calling. Here, every caregiver, nurse, and staff member understands the challenges of dementia and brings deep patience, empathy, and commitment to each interaction. Residents are seen, heard, and valued. And families are welcomed as part of the community, every step of the way.This is memory care with hearta place where every person is honored for who they are and supported with purpose and love.If someone you care about is living with memory loss, now is the time to discover a community that truly understands what they need. Visit in person, speak with the care team, and see for yourself how dignity, joy, and peace of mind can flourisheven in the face of memory challenges..
Assisted Living with Dignity, Connection, and ComfortJust Outside PittsburghAs needs change with age, so does the type of care that best supports independence and well-being. For many older adults, assisted living provides the perfect balance: personalized help with daily tasks, freedom to pursue interests, and a warm community that feels like home. Thats exactly what residents find in this inviting assisted living setting nestled in the hills near Pittsburgh.Here, seniors dont just receive caretheyre embraced by a community that respects who they are, where theyve been, and how they want to live today.Personalized Assistance, Delivered with HeartEvery resident in assisted living receives the individual support they need, when they need it. Whether its a helping hand with bathing, dressing, managing medications, or navigating a daily routine, trained team members are available 24/7 with kindness, discretion, and compassion.Theres no one-size-fits-all here. Care plans are thoughtfully created in collaboration with residents and their families, always honoring preferences, habits, and personal goals. The focus is on helping each individual maintain their independence while enjoying the reassurance of support just a moment away.This person-centered approach promotes confidence, security, and a renewed sense of freedom.Stylish, Comfortable Living SpacesResidents enjoy private apartment-style residences, available in a range of floor plans to suit different needs and preferences. Each space includes a full private bathroom, thoughtfully designed features for safety and accessibility, and room for cherished furniture and personal dcor.These arent clinical roomstheyre true homes, filled with light, warmth, and personality. Whether youre sipping coffee by the window, reading your favorite novel, or inviting friends in for a chat, your space reflects your lifestyle.A Life Filled with Activity, Purpose, and JoyOne of the most powerful benefits of assisted living is the opportunity to reconnect with interests, friendships, and meaningful routines. The community offers a robust calendar of events and activities designed to support physical, social, and emotional wellness.Residents can participate in:Fitness classes tailored for older adultsArt and creative expression workshopsGardening and outdoor activitiesGroup outings to local destinationsLive entertainment, lectures, and cultural programsFaith-based services and spiritual supportWhether youre outgoing and social or prefer a quiet cup of tea with a neighbor, theres something here for everyone. And best of all, you can choose your own rhythmengaging when it feels right, resting when you prefer solitude.Nutritious Dining with a Personal TouchMealtimes are an enjoyable experience, not just a necessity. Residents savor fresh, chef-prepared meals crafted with both nutrition and taste in mind. Meals are served in a welcoming dining room setting that encourages connection and conversation.Special dietary needs? Thats never a problem. The dining team works closely with each resident to accommodate preferences and ensure meals support health and wellness goals.Snacks, hydration stations, and casual bistro-style options make it easy to eat well throughout the day.Wellness and Health Services On-SiteWhile assisted living supports independence, it also provides access to a range of wellness services right within the community. From routine health monitoring and scheduled medical appointments to rehabilitation therapies and fitness programming, residents have convenient access to the care and resources they need to feel their best.The peace of mind that comes from knowing medical professionals are nearby is invaluablefor both residents and their families.Seamless Access to Additional Levels of CareAssisted living here is part of a larger, full-service senior living campus. That means residents dont have to worry about moving again if their care needs increase. Should the time come when more support is needed, they can easily transition to other services like memory care, skilled nursing, or rehabilitationall within the same familiar setting and surrounded by trusted caregivers.This continuity reduces stress, preserves community ties, and offers long-term stability for both residents and loved ones.A Welcoming Community That Feels Like FamilyThe difference isnt just in the servicesits in the spirit of the community itself. From the moment you arrive, youll notice the warmth of the staff, the ease of conversation between residents, and the genuine smiles that greet you in every hallway. This is a place where people truly carefor one another, and about the kind of life theyre building together.Friendships flourish, purpose is rediscovered, and each day offers the chance for joy.Discover Assisted Living with Heart, Near PittsburghChoosing an assisted living community is about more than finding careits about finding connection, comfort, and a renewed sense of possibility. Whether you're planning for yourself or helping a loved one make the transition, now is the time to explore a setting where support and independence go hand-in-hand.Step inside and experience what thoughtful, dignified assisted living can feel likea place where your story matters and your future feels bright.