Tp learn more aboutAdvanced Health Care of St George andAdvanced Health Care of Salem, Click on the names.Excellence in Post Acute CareAdvanced Health Care provides a unique solution to those looking for an alternative to a nursing home. The professionals at our state-of-the-art facilities specialize in short term nursing and rehabilitation after your hospital stay and before returning home. We offer private suites, twenty-four hour nursing care, inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation services, and a fine dining experience in a luxurious atmosphere.Fine DiningAdvanced Health Care facilities offer a fine dining experience in an elegant setting. All meals are served restaurant-style with choices from our gourmet menu. Specialized diets such as cardiac and diabetic are ordered by the physician and supervised by a registered dietician. Our cooks pay special attention to the nutrition, taste, and presentation of each meal. Those who wish to remain in their suites during meals receive room service.NursingThe teams at Advanced Health Care work closely with the patient, family, and physician to ensure that the needs of each person are met. Under the direction of your physician, licensed nursing professionals provide twenty-four hour skilled care and a variety of additional services. These services may include wound care, IV therapy, medication administration, and assistance with dressing, bathing, walking, and dining.Private SuitesAll Advanced Health Care facilities only offer deluxe private suites that are warm and comfortable. Our spacious suites include a personal phone, cable television, individual thermostat for climate control, private bathroom with a shower, and a kitchenette which includes a microwave, sink, and a small fridge. Each patient suite is beautifully furnished and equipped with high speed internet access.RehabilitationThe goal of our specialized rehab program is to help patients attain their maximum potential and restore the functional abilities and confidence necessary for independent living. Our inpatient and outpatient rehab teams offer Physical, Occupational, and Speech therapies which are often critical components of a patient's plan of care. The therapists at all Advanced Health Care locations evaluate the needs of each patient and develop an outcome-oriented program.

Acupuncture is a a system of integrative medicine that involves pricking the skin or tissues with needles, used to alleviate pain and to treat various physical, mental, and emotional conditions.A key component of traditional Chinese medicine,acupunctureis most commonly used to treat pain. Increasingly, it is being used for overall wellness, including stress management.#listing_mgr{7 basic_search}#

Drinking Enough FluidsIts important for your body to have plenty of fluids each day. Water helps you digest your food, absorb nutrients, and then get rid of the unused waste.With age, some people may lose their sense of thirst. To further complicate matters, some medicines might make it even more important to have plenty of fluids.Drinking enough fluids every day also is essential if you exercise regularly. Check with your doctor, however, if youve been told to limit how much you drink.Go4Life has the following tips: Try to add liquids through out the day. Take sips from a glass of water, milk, or juice between bites during meals. Have a cup of low-fat soup as an afternoon snack. Drink a full glass of water if you need to take a pill. Have a glass of water before you exercise or go outside to garden or walk, especially on a hot day. Remember, water is a good way to add fluids to your daily routine without adding calories. Drink fat-free or low-fat milk, or other drinks without added sugars. If you drink alcoholic beverages, do so sensibly and in moderation. That means up to one drink per day for women and up to two drinks for men. Dont stop drinking liquids if you have a urinary control problem. Talk with your doctor about treatment.This article was extracted from the following website:www.nia.nih.gov/Go4LifeGo4Life is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

TV commercials or online ads may imply something different, but there are 3 critical factors to successful hearing treatment. A lack of any of the 3 could negatively impact your success to better hearing.The first and most important P is the Professional. Finding the right professional is essential! In fact, 7 of the top 10 factors in patient satisfaction are directly related to the relationship and best practices performed by the professional!The second P is the Process. The majority of hearing-impaired people did not lose their hearing overnight. Patients only realize they are missing things when it affects conversations that are valuable, but by then there are many sounds that have disappeared.Since patients dont realize they have hearing loss until years later, hearing cannot be restored overnight either. The brain needs to be slowly reintroduced to the sounds that have been missing.Finally, the 3rd P is the Product. The product is still an important part of a patients success, but a good professional can work with many quality hearing technologies. You have to have a good Professional and good Process set up before finding the right Product.You get what you pay for; make sure your investment covers all three.Editors Note: This article was submitted by Whitney Swander, Au.D., which is a condensed excerpt from her co-written book Isolation is Optional. Dr. Whitney Swander is the owner of Hearing HealthCare Centers and may be reached at 303-720-7516 or by email at info@hearinghealthcarecenters.com.

We all know there are certain things we can take for granted such as death and taxes. We should also expect the unexpected. Consequently, I think it is helpful to do a simple self-assessment of what plans you have in place if the unexpected happens, as it will.For example: Do I have in place adequate powers of attorney that allow trusted persons to make decisions for me? Do I have a will or have I planned for how my property will pass to those I want to have it? If I am in a blended family have I made plans to address the issues such situations frequently bring such as how will step-children be handled. What plans do I have in place to address the reality of my family dynamics? Am I suffering from a condition that might require assisted living or long-term care?Asking these simple questions might reveal the need to do some planning or to address changed circumstances which have arisen since the original plans were made. The time to do this is now while there is time and while you can be in control of your destiny. Dont assume your family will make the choices you would because it is very possible they will not.What to do then? Plan for the unexpected. Consult with the necessary professionals today so that the unexpected does not catch you unawares. The decisions you make today will affect your family tomorrow; help them to enact your wishes by giving them the tools they need to implement your plans for both life and death. The problems will not just go away.Editors Note: This article was submitted by William H. Moller, Attorney and Counselor at Law, The Moller Law Group, LLC. He may be reached at 719-694-1284, or by email at whmoller@mollerlawgroup.com.

To learn more about Harmony Home Health and Hospice, CLICK HERE.Even though the holiday season is commonly viewed as a time that is joyful, filled with spending time with family and friends who are near and dear to us and finding the perfect gifts, for older individuals, it can be anything but merry and bright. A mix of lost loved ones, memories of holidays past, health concerns and more can impact older adults with feelings of lonesomeness and sorrow.AtHarmony Home Health & Hospice, provider ofin-home careandhospice care in Salt Lake Cityand surrounding communities, we care deeply about making sure that seniors feel included in the festivities and enjoy the holiday season to the fullest. The following tips can help everyone enjoy the wonder of the holiday season together:Create a cookbook with recipes from all family members. Accumulate all the recipes together, and then make copies of your new family cookbook.Go for a drive to enjoy holiday lights in the community your older family member grew up in.If the senior has problems with setting up holiday decorations, offer to help! This is a wonderful way to share memories of past holidays and the stories behind different decorations.For a holiday that is really relaxing, schedule time together at a local beauty shop or spa. You can even request a local beautician or masseuse to come to the seniors home if its possible.Safety precautions may also need to be considered for the senior, for a number of reasons: increased fall risks with all of the extra holiday decorations, challenges with following a prescribed dietary plan, and for those with dementia, interruption to routine, additional visitors in the home, and higher noise levels can all cause stress.Keep the following in mind to be sure your senior loved ones remain safe and content:Keep decoration safety in mind. Ensure that there are clear walking paths, and try to make use of simple, uncluttered decorations.Lower lighting can conceal things that seniors could possibly trip over, such as extension cords.Designate a quiet area for the older person if the enthusiasm of young children, loud music and activities become overwhelming.Assign someone to be the older adults buddy for the event, making sure his or her needs are fully met and establishing a bond that is beneficial for both.The holidays can certainly be fun and relaxing for all. With just a little pre-planning and additional thought, seniors will enjoy the holidays as much as everyone else, creating new memories that the whole family will take pleasure in and remember for a lifetime.And, if in the middle of the holiday hustle and bustle you might like the help and support of a professional caregiver fromHarmony Home Health & Hospice, provider of the best home health care and hospice care in Salt Lake City and nearby areas, is on hand to help!Contact usat1-877-I-NEED-CAREto learn more about how we can brighten the holidays for you and yours and for more ideas for fun activities for elderly loved ones to enjoy this holiday season.

Have you ever considered a residential care home? This question is being asked more often in the Denver Metro area as these smaller facilities are carving out a very successful niche in the long-term care field. Many people, like the ones below, are unaware that these options of care even exist.A husband caring for his wife with Alzheimer's, after months of barely sleeping, is exhausted and not able to provide the care his wife needs. A daughter is seeking a new placement for her father diagnosed with dementia because she cannot continue to work full-time, raise her kids and try to oversee his care every day in a facility which seems ill-equipped to deal with his active and curious behavior. A wife seeks help for her disabled husband who has short term memory loss due to a neurological condition requiring full time monitoring, while she works as a teacher to help support the family and pay for his care.Often when families are deciding what to do for a loved one or family member who can no longer care for themselves, they are in crisis mode. There is often a progression where the family unit attempts to provide the care. Many lack the training, time, resources or living space to do an effective job. Often an event occurs (the patient has a fall or a major decline or the caregiver is unable to continue) and more help is needed. Many who seek help providing care don't know what help is available or the options to possibly consider.The residential care home can provide care environment that is totally different than staying home or living in a large care facility like an assisted living. The home-like setting with regular rooms and furnishings paired with an outdoor space for walking and gardens remind residents of their own home. Caregivers are there to offer personalized help with activities of daily living such as walking, bathing, toileting, medication management, and eating as well as the activities of the day. The aromas of the meals cooked in the kitchen help to bring people to the dining room. The small group of people living there become like family. It can be a wonderful, happy place that can relieve a great deal of the anxious feeling that many people face when the time comes that they cannot stay at home any more.Editors Note: This article was submitted by Russ Udelhofen, Adminstrator of Jaxpointe Assisted Living Memory Care Homes and may be reached at 303-420-5590 or by email at info@jaxpointe.com

For the last three years, Deborah Mills has been caring for her mother, who has Alzheimers and needs constant supervision. While Mills is happy to be in a situation in which shes able to help, the experience has been stressfulespecially given the high financial cost of caregiving. Kamilah Williams-Kemp, vice president of long-term care at Northwestern Mutual, has seen firsthand the struggles of family caregivers, having watched her mother-in-law care for a family member. Northwestern Mutual s C.A.R.E. (Costs, Accountabilities, Realities, Expectations) study found that expenses relating to caregiving made up around one-third of a caregivers monthly budget.What we saw in the study was that many of the people needing care had used up their assets to cover the costs of care, said Williams-Kemp.The Costs of CaregivingWhen it comes to the impacts of caring for a loved one, the financial burdens of caregiving were cited in the study as the second biggest impact after reduced personal time. Thats not surprising given the rising costs of caregiving.Many people dont expect these expenses, according to Williams-Kemp. In the study, only one in four potential future caregivers said that financial support was a key attribute of caregiving, but nearly two-thirds of caregivers actually end up providing financial support.How to Plan Ahead:Four in ten Americans are current or past caregivers, and one in five non-caregivers expect to provide care in the future. Still, a financial plan that includes long-term care can be a sensitive topic.Ensuring that you have a plan can give you more options to make choices about care and protect your family.How to Cope Financially if You Didnt PlanWhile the financial demands of caregiving can feel overwhelming, there are strategies that can help caregivers manage. The first thing youll want to do is work with the financial advisor and attorney of the person who needs care, Williams-Kemp said. Look at his or her assets to figure out how to best leverage them in caregiving situations.Planning Ahead Provides Certainty in Uncertain SituationsThose who do have a plan in place feel comforted, according to Williams-Kemp. Ive been told by people whom weve helped plan ahead that theres an incredible peace of mind to not having to worry about the financial aspects of their care or feel like theyre a burden to the family members who otherwise would have stepped in to help, she said. The full article can be found at www.northwesternmutual.com/life-and-money/long-term-care-should-be-a-part-of-your-financial-planArticle prepared by Northwestern Mutual with the cooperation of Bruce Mozinski. Bruce Mozinski is a Wealth Management Advisor with Northwestern Mutual, the marketing name for The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company (NM), Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and its subsidiaries. Bruce Mozinski is based in Southborough, MA. To contact Bruce Mozinski, please call (508) 251-7223, e-mail at bruce.mozinski@nm.com, or visit brucemozinski.com.

At LIFE Home Health, our vision is to create one million moments of joy in the lives of our clients, employees, and community. We take an integrative approach, spending the time to understand each clients passion and purpose to guide their plan of care.Our team members are Engagement Specialists who live by our core values of living fully, inspiring others, having fun with purpose and engaging the community.We dont just have our vision and our values posted on the wall we live it every day, says Karen Kalinowski, Director of HR.Karen understands that success of a match between a client and one of our Engagement Specialists starts with hiring people who live our values.I look for their smile that twinkle in their eye and when they start to talk about their experience, you can almost tell immediately if they have passion for it.Employees first attend Inspiration Day where we help the new team member realize theyre not just treating a client and their diagnosis theyre going to be engaging that client completely and fully, notes Karen.Many of our clients are living with Parkinsons, Alzheimers or another form of Dementia. Its important to remember they had a life before this disease, and they still have that life. We really want our Engagement Specialists to engage in the things that matter most. From someone who loved to swim in the ocean and finding a way to get them back to the beach for a day. To someone who loved to read and talking about books or reading aloud to them. Or someone who played an instrument and arranging for an in-home concert.When asked what she believes sets LIFE apart from other providers, Karen doesnt hesitate.We wont accept a case that we dont think we can handle and do exceedingly well. I think thats a big distinction, she says. With every single client, we continually ask ourselves - where could we improve and where could we grow? Even when things are going really, really well, were still talking about it and learning from it.Editors Note: To learn more about LIFE and the services we offer, give us a call at 239.444.5965 or email info@lifehomehealth.com.

A geriatric assessment is a multidimensional assessment which is designed to evaluate an individuals or couples current functional ability, physical health, cognition and mental health, social environment, legal, financial status and environmental safety. Information is gathered from the individuals themselves and may be solicited from family and other key members in the persons life. The goals of the assessment are to maintain, improve, and enhance those areas which can be affected, and to minimize risk and potential harm to the individuals under assessment. Additional goals are to reduce the burden on the family caregiver(s) and provide support for the family.The Care Manager gathers the information needed for the geriatric assessment in the home of the individual or couple over several meetings. The assessment begins with comprehensive data gathering using interviews, screening techniques and instruments, data review and observation. The starting point is the gathering of personal information, medical history, review of medications, current medical concerns, including cognition, and client goals. The Care Manager also conducts functional assessments such as the ability to bath, dress, shop, prepare meals, handle finances, and live at home safely. They review the presence and completeness of advanced directives and powers of attorney as well as financial data; i.e., income, expenses, and assets.The initial meeting with the client(s) and whomever they would like present last 1.5 to 2 hours. We review our services, sign contract document and conduct the initial interview to get to know the client a bit. There are 2 to 3 additional meetings of 1.5 to 2 hours each to cover the topics outlined above. With couples, we may need an additional meeting. We can meet once or twice a week depending upon the clients schedule and energy level.After the assessment, the Care Manager organizes and documents all key information and identifies those areas that are going well and those that that needs to be addressed, or shored up. A plan is then developed in each area that needs to be addressed with goals, priorities, recommendations and potential resources.The final meeting of the assessment and care plan is with the client(s) and whomever they would like to attend to hear the summary and recommendations of our assessment; typically, 1 to 1.5 hours per person assessed.The Care Manager is available to implement or assist in the implementation of the recommendations agreed upon by the client. The care plan provides a roadmap for the caregiver and family about what needs to be done next and in the near future. When clients are working with a Care Manager, the assessment and care plan evolves over time as client needs change.At Life Changes, we provide exceptional care management services.LET US HELP YOU BE PROACTIVE!See ad on page 21

As they age, seniors face a litany of new challenges to their well-being. Even as the COVID-19 pandemic is affecting the world, seniors are among the most vulnerable population to the deadly virus.Along with monitoring their physical health, seniors are being encouraged to support their mental health. Especially now, self-care during coronavirus can be even more important.Self-care is defined in many ways,according to the International Self-Care Foundation, but the World Health Organization has a helpful take on the term: Self-Care is what people do for themselves to establish and maintain health, and to prevent and deal with illness. The WHO factors in environmental factors, hygiene, lifestyle and nutrition into its holistic view of self-care.Find out more about self-care for seniors and some activities to support mental and physical care for seniors.7 Self-Care Activities for SeniorsHere are 7 ways seniors can take care of themselves:Connect With OthersGive ThanksPractice Mindfulness and RelaxationConsider PrayerRead a New BookDo Something CreativePrioritize Your Physical Health1. Connect With OthersAs Americans get older, they are more likely to live alone.According to the Administration for Community Living, a division of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, about 28% of older persons live alone 9.3 million women and 4.5 million men.A study by financial investments firm Edward Jonesmakes a distinction between being alone and feeling lonely disconnected and ignored. Their study indicates that many older adults possess self-sufficiency and resilience, which makes them feel less lonely despite being more socially isolated.This is especially heightened during a time of forced isolation and quarantine during COVID-19.From the International Council on Active Aging,here are some ways to stay connected during lockdown:Call someone. Not all connections have to be high-tech. Use the phone to connect with grandkids, family and friends you havent heard from in a while.Check on your neighbors. From a safe distance, make sure those around you are doing well, and ask whether they need anything you can help with.Exercise safely. You can get together outdoors with a friend, keeping a safe distance, of course. Or, you can join an online exercise opportunity, such as with the Peloton bike community.Join groups and clubs. Discussion groups and book clubs are meeting online. Livestreams on subjects that interest you can also include chat opportunities.Spend time outside. Use the opportunity to interact with neighbors or people making deliveries. Set up chairs at a safe distance and encourage others to stay and talk awhile.Use technology. Apps and websites can connect people for conversation, activities, even dinner and a movie.This Senior Lifestyle articlelists apps and sites that can help you connect.2. Give ThanksEvidence continues to show that gratitude is associated with many benefits.A paper by the Greater Good Science Centerat the University of California at Berkeley indicates that among these benefits are better physical and psychological health, greater happiness and life satisfaction, higher self-esteem, less materialism, less negativity, and more.There are many techniques experts advise to help build a sense of gratitude. Among the ways to give thanks:Begin each day by giving thanks. Be thankful for days of good health, for shelter, for friends and family. Take time to really savor the feelings of thankfulness.Give back. You might donate to a charity or volunteer to make phone calls for a community group. This can give you a sense of purpose while connecting with others.Keep a gratitude journal. You could note big things, such as the opportunity to see a friend or family member, or small things like experiencing a restful nap. The key is to identify new things to feel grateful for.Practice mindfulness. Slow down and appreciate all the little things, such as pleasant weather, the sound of a familiar voice, your favorite music. This can bring you clarity, comfort and peace.Say thank you every day. Just smiling or holding open a door or saying thank you can open you up to more feelings of gratitude.Share messages of thanks. Writer letters or send packages to the important people in your life. Taking time to express how you feel can be an enriching and fulfilling experience.3. Practice Mindfulness and RelaxationMindfulness has entered the American mainstream in recent years from its roots in Buddhist meditation.According to the Mayo Clinic, mindfulness is being intensely aware of what youre sensing and feeling in the moment, free from interpretation or judgment.This type of meditation can involve breathing methods, guided imagery, and other practices to relax the body and mind and help reduce stress. There are many other benefits of mindfulness and meditation for seniors,as shown in this Senior Lifestyle article.Here are 8 things you can do to practice mindfulness every day:Go for a walk or be in nature. Take in the sights, sounds and even smells of the outdoors.Listen to relaxing music or sounds. Calm piano music or the sound of a gentle rain or babbling brook water stream can be a great relief.Meditate. Take a yoga posture, or find a comfortable chair in a quiet place, where you can find peace.Practice deep, controlled breathing. Cleansing breaths can slow your heart, lower your blood pressure and raise your self-awareness.Take in your surroundings. See things as you never have before, appreciating the uniqueness of your place and time.Try aromatherapy. The cozy, comforting scent of fresh-baked cookies or the ocean shore can be duplicated with candles or essential oils.Turn off the television or computer. This practical step can help you step away from the urgent and let you experience the timeless.Use apps. From your phone or laptop, you can get guidance in your mindfulness and meditation. Among the apps available are:BreatheBuddhifyCalmHeadspaceThe Mindfulness App4. Consider PrayerMeditation and prayer can have a lot in common, but they are different. While meditation focuses on clearing the mind through ones solitary life journey, prayer entails working through thoughts and circumstances while experiencing a relationship with a higher power.Studies and articles recently have reinforced the positive effects of prayer and religious faith:According to a recent study from Gallup, the only people who experienced a positive change in mental health from 2019 to 2020 were those who attended a religious service weekly.An article from CNNreports that prayer can decrease feelings of fear, anxiety, stress and isolation. The article also notes that prayer has been associated with feelings of peace, encouragement and social support.There are many different ways to pray, and different faiths may require different methods, such as using particular texts or following certain schedules. Some of the more common ways to pray include:Pray at a set time. A morning prayer opens the day with hopefulness and lets you seek help for the challenges ahead. An evening prayer helps you give thanks for Gods hand in your day.Pray by journaling. Sum up the thoughts of the day or your most recent scripture reading and turn this into a prayer.Pray informally. This may be on a walk or at a suddenly quiet time of the day. Express your thoughts and feelings without resorting to religious language.Pray silently. Prayer is not only about requesting from God; its about hearing, too. Use your prayer time to listen.Pray with a friend. Teaming up for prayer can help keep you accountable, and will encourage you to ask for prayer from your teammate. Youll also get the blessing of praying for someone elses needs.Pray your heart. Whats at the top of your mind? What are you wrestling with? Who are you thinking about? This is a good place to start your prayer.5. Read a New BookReading can lower blood pressure, decrease heart rate and reduce stress,according to a study by the University of Sussex. Only six minutes of reading can reduce stress up to 68%, more than having a cup of tea or listening to music. Reading of any kind can let you escape to a new place, or to learn something new.Dont know where to start? There are a few sites that can help you find your interests and give you recommendations for interesting books.Bookish This site features articles with recommendations and lists of books to read.Goodreads You can start lists of books youve read, books you want to read, and even connect with other people to see what theyre reading. When you sign up, you can get recommendations according to your interests.LibraryThing This is another list builder, which will keep track of your owned books and wishlist books. When you sign up and fill in your preferences, you can get a long list of recommendations.What Should I Read Next? Type in the title of an author or a book youve read, and youll get some new book ideas. Also search by genre or interests.Whichbook This site can search for books by your mood, or location youre interested in, or the characters in the book, and more.If youre looking to economize, remember to make use of your nearest library or look for free ebooks that can be read on a device like Kindle. Find them here:BookBubFree-EbooksOpen CultureOpen LibraryProject GutenbergDont let vision issues stop you from exploring the world of books. Audiobooks are a great way to get up to date on literature. Find some free audiobooks here:AudibleOpen CultureLibriVox6. Do Something CreativeCreativity brings your imagination into play, which is a terrific way to reduce stress and exercise your mind. The stress-related hormone cortisol can drop significantly after just 45 minutes of making art,according to a study published by the Journal of the American Art Therapy Association.But art isnt the only way to engage your creativity. Hobbies, music, cooking anything that you can create can give you the benefits of stress reduction. Here are some things you can do to unleash your creativity:Compose a poem Try haikus instead of regular rhyming schemes just to mix it up.Cook something new Food can be an expressive medium. Try a new dish, a new technique, or use a new kitchen gadget.Draw or paint a picture Use pencil and paper or a computer tablet. Try oils, pastels and watercolors. Whatever you use, let your imagination flow.Grow a garden Add color and personality to your yard by planting flowers, herbs or vegetables.Start a scrapbook Dig through your memories with old photos and ephemera. It can be dressed up and shown to family and friends.Take pictures Photography doesnt have to be expensive. Use your phones camera to document your neighborhood.Write a story Fiction, nonfiction, short story, memoir whatever you choose to write, get it down on paper or on the screen without worrying about perfection.For more ideas,Pinterestcan be a deep well of inspiration.7. Prioritize Your Physical HealthIn addition to getting plenty of sleep and eating healthy foods, make sure youre making time for exercise. The benefits of physical activity, in particular, are many for seniors,according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.The CDC says activity can help reduce the risks of:Colon cancerCoronary heart diseaseDiabetesFallingFracturing bonesHigh blood pressureIt can also help:Build stamina and muscle strengthControl joint swelling and pain associated with arthritisImprove mood and feelings of well-beingMaintain healthy bones, joints and musclesSubmitted & Written By: The Sheridan at Lakewood Ranch- click for more information*For Original Blog Click Here*

The best way to eliminate elder abuse is to prevent it from ever happening. Yet, when it does occur, the cycle can be difficult to break as the elderly are often silent in their suffering. Seniors may be physically unable to respond to abuse or afraid of the consequences if they speak up and our society often turns a deaf ear to such cries for help. Thus, preventing abuse and neglect becomes even more difficult, but no less imperative.How can a family member, friend, or neighbor identify such neglect? After all, how can you tell that someone is threatening to chastise or deprive someone unless you see it happen? Without seeing it happen, how can you tell that someone is inflicting mental pain, anguish, or distress on an elder person through verbal or nonverbal acts, e.g. humiliating, intimidating, or threatening?Not attending to the elder; ignoring verbal/nonverbal calls for helpLack of attention to the elder's need for affectionFailure to provide necessary psychological care to the senior, such as therapy or medications for depressionElders can:Plan their financial future with trusted family members, thus helping to eliminate unwanted theft and fraud.Avoid social isolation which can make you vulnerable to abuse.Speak your mind if you think you are not receiving proper care, either in a facility or at home.Know who you can contact if you think you have been abused.Family Members can:Pay attention to warning signs of possible abuse.Review bank accounts for irregular activity.Call and visit frequently. Make sure your loved one feels comfortable enough to contact you in case of an emergency.Make certain your loved one is eating and sleeping properly and is properly medicated.Caregivers can:Stay healthy and get regular medical care.Seek counseling or spiritual guidance for signs of depressions stress, or burnout.Know your local resources for elder abuse, and contact them.Become familiar with the procedures for reported and acting on an elder abuse situation.Find support groups to help with the stress and to assist with education of other caregivers.All-in-all, communicating with our elders is the solution to almost all potential issues mental or physical. Calling mom, dad, auntie, and uncle to say hello and I love you not only lets our loved ones know they are loved, but it reminds them that they are not forgotten. It opens the door for communicating their needs and thoughts.Editors Note: Deb Harrison and Judson Haims are owners of Visiting Angels locations in Grand Junction, Garfield, and Eagle Counties. They may be contacted at: Grand Junction (970) 254-8888 and Eagle/Garfield County (970)328-5526.

To learn more aboutSYNERGY HomeCare,CLICK HERE.Care for EveryoneWhen seniors return home from a hospital stay, they are confronted with many new and unexpected challenges. If they struggle to read fine print, it can be difficult to decipher prescriptions and manage new medications. Even if they suffer frommemory loss, their health depends on remembering and following discharge instructions while making and keeping follow-up doctors appointments. It can also be a struggle to obtain the physical assistance and in-home support they require while they recuperate. Is it any wonder that nearly one-fifth of seniors are re-hospitalized within 30 days of being discharged from the hospital, usually with a different condition than they were originally admitted for?The good news is thatSYNERGY HomeCarecan provide the help your senior loved one needs to fully recover at a time when patients are leaving the hospital sicker and quicker than ever before.

Women are Veterans too! A fervent adage held by women who have fought alongside their male counterparts in the U.S. Military ever since the Revolutionary War. Although women have been serving their country for decades, they have not always received the recognition, benefits, and care entitled to them or even self-identify as a "Veteran." At VA we aim to change this!Currently there are 1.8 million women Veterans (WV); the fastest growing segment of the Veteran population. Today women make up 15% of active duty military and 18% of guard and reserve forces. In Utah, there are over 13,000 WV with more coming home every day.VA'sWomen Veterans Health Care provides WV with a full range of services necessary for healthy aging. From disease screening and prevention, to home health care, access to specialty clinics, Veterans nursing homes, geriatric care and support with end-of-life decisions.The VA Salt Lake City Women Veterans Program is committed to meeting the unique needs of WV by delivering the highest quality health care to each woman, while offering her the privacy, dignity and sensitivity to gender-specific needs that she deserves. One example of this quality of care is the Women's Clinic; a comprehensive primary care clinic which provides treatment for heart disease, high blood pressure, colon and breast cancer, nutrition and fitness information, safe driving evaluations, help with osteoporosis, menopause management and specialty GYN and pharmacy services. In addition, we offer groups, activities, events and retreats specifically for WV.Do you live in a rural area? We can take care of you at one of our Community based outpatient clinics or through women's telehealth; speak face-to-face over a computer monitor with a women's health provider or pharmacist. In addition, use My HealtheVet to view your medical record, refill prescriptions, make appointments or email your provider.Additionally, on April 23, 2013, the Department of Veterans Affairs launched its new Women Veterans hotline1-855-VA-WOMEN (1-855-829-6636)an incoming call center that receives and responds to questions from women Veterans, their families, and caregivers across the nation about available VA services and resources.Remember VA knows women Veterans!Editors Note: This article was submitted by Gina Painter, LCSW, Women Veterans Program Manager at the George E. Wahlen Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center. She may be reached at 801 582-1565 x5423 or by email at gina.painter@va.gov. For more information visit the website athttp://www.saltlakecity.va.gov/services_women_veterans.asp

The concept of aging is one that is often not easily accepted or understood. This is true whether you are personally experiencing the effects of aging or watching it occur in a loved one. Recognizing that there is a growing elderly population in the north/west community in need of specialized healing and health care, Exempla Lutheran has developed services dedicated to older members of the community.Senior-focused services must take account the physical, emotional and mental needs of older patients. A new philosophy of care for the geriatric patient is at the heart of these programs. By design, clinicians perform a variety of screenings relevant to the senior patient and follow up with every patient after they have returned home. This extra contact is intended to help lower readmission rates and reduce the risk of harmful drug interactions, which provides higher quality and more cost-effective care.Over the past 18 months, senior-specific care has been implemented in three areas of the hospital.Lutherans Senior ER, which was the first in Colorado, is a designated area in the emergency department designed with many physical enhancements to ease both stress and communication with patients who are seen there. The unit has non-skid flooring; beds with thicker, pressure-reducing mattresses; softer room lighting; hearing and visual aids, and above all, a quieter, calmer atmosphere than a traditional ER can provide. Additionally, the nurses dedicated to a Senior ER typically go through specialized education and physicians and nurses take workshops in sensory appreciation and ageism to learn how to better communicate with older adults and their caregivers.In recent months, a Senior Behavioral Health inpatient treatment center opened, where evaluation and treatment of mental illnesses associated with aging are achieved in a safe and private environment. Most patients that need inpatient care have other physical illnesses that must be considered and that are often a result of life changes that can bring on serious mental challenges in the elderly.Seniors also benefit from a dedicated surgery program that focuses on pre-surgery preparations, special precautions to protect fragile skin, and a more seamless transition to post-surgical home care. This service became available to the community in December.The combination of both a new practice philosophy and senior-focused amenities provides a much needed service to our unique senior population.Editors Note: This article was submitted by Sarah Ellis, communications director at Exempla Lutheran Medical Center. For more information on Lutherans Senior Services, call 303-425-4500

To learn more aboutConnections Area Agency on Aging, CLICK HERE.Connect with others with similar journeys. Support groups give you an opportunity to learn from one another, to share common experiences, to vent, cry, and laugh with one another. Connections provides support groups both in-person and on-line. You choose which type best fits your time constraints and abilities.Family Caregivers Connections - an on-line Facebook Support GroupNeed a convenient way to meet with others and share common concerns, be inspired, and be connected?Connections Area Agency on Aging now has an on-line Caregiver's support group connected to our Facebook page.The group is a closed group, requiring a caregiver to answer 3 questions in order to be added to the group.This support group is not geared towards professional caregivers.Sioux City - Grandparents Raising GrandchildrenThis group formed in the fall of 2018 and is sponsored by Siouxland Community Health and Connections Area Agency on Aging.It meets once a month, on the second Thursday at the First Unitarian Church.Free supper provided at 5:30pm, followed by discussion, ending at 7:00pm.Free childcare available.For more information, contact Jan Schnack at 800.432.9209Sioux City - Grandparents Raising Grandchildren on-line support groupThis on-line support group is a part of Connections Area Agency on Aging's Facebook presence.The group is a closed group, limited to the membership of the live group that meets twice monthly.For more information, contact Jan Schnack at 800.432.9209

Patients who have undergone tracheotomies or use ventilators for mechanical breathing have often experienced different levels of care beginning with the onset of events. Typically a patient in respiratory distress arrives at a Hospital Emergency Room to begin treatment and care. Severe cases will transfer to an Intensive Care Unit, Cardiac Care Unit or Trauma Unit within a hospital. Patients may spend several days or weeks in these units until conditions have stabilized. Once stabilized respiratory patients will often be assessed for placement in a Long Term Acute Care Unit or a Subacute Respiratory Unit.Subacute Respiratory Units are located within Skilled Nursing Facilities and offer services to care for the specific needs of individuals affected by respiratory disease. Services include customized care and recovery plans directed by an interdisciplinary medical team.Patients on ventilators are assessed by Respiratory Therapists for weaning and tracheotomy patients may be decannulated. Physical and Occupational therapies work with patients to rebuild strength. Speech therapy treatments include swallow evaluations and speaking. Nutritionists address patient diet and meal options. Social Services work with patients and families to determine long term placement goals and monitor the well being of a patient while residing on the Subacute Unit. Residents work with an Activity Staff to identify appropriate activities. The Business Office is available to assist with insurance coverage and financial planning. All care of the respiratory patient is overseen by a Medical Director and Pulmonologist.Questions to ask prior to placement at a Subacute Respiratory Unit:What are the unit staffing ratios?Will I have a patient care conference and how often?What style of ventilator and alarm system are utilized?What does routine patient care include?How often is a trach tube changed?Will patient have the ability to set realistic goals?Are there patient and/or family training opportunities?Does my insurance cover subacute respiratory care?Entering a Subacute Respiratory Care Unit is often a second or third transition in patient care but also indicates a patient is stable with improved conditions. Prior to discharge your hospital case manager will present you with appropriate options for care.Article submitted by Advanced Lifeline Services. They can be reached at 801-458-5122 or www.alsvents.com

Price listed includes any and all amenities a community has to offer.#listing_mgr{1 basic_search}#

Weatherization Programs for Seniors in IdahoEnjoy a Healthier, More Comfortable Home At No Cost to YouIdaho Power offers two weatherization programs to help you use less energy and make your home more comfortable. Both of these programs provide free energy efficiency improvements to customers who own or rent[i] electrically heated homes, apartments and manufactured homes.Free home efficiency improvements for both programs may include:Vinyl windowsExterior door replacement and weather strippingAttic, floor and wall insulationBathroom/kitchen fansInsulating and sealing air ductsNew furnace and/or water heaterNew light bulbsBenefits Youll AppreciateThese upgrades help keep cold air out during the winter and hot air out during the summer. Trained and certified weatherization crews ensure improvements are installed effectively.These weatherization programs focus on the entire house. When a home is weatherized, it is weatherized with all cost-effective improvements possible to save energy and provide a healthy and comfortable living environment for eligible customers.Through these weatherization programs, customers learn how to use energy wisely, where they might save additional energy to help reduce their heating costs, and how to use new equipment such as a digital thermostat in their home. This one-on-one education is a good time to have questions about energy efficiency answered by professionals.These home improvements make a real difference in the lives of Idaho Powers customers. Donna Blay, a participant in Idaho Powers Weatherization Solutions program, said We dont get cold, and we dont hear the wind blowing through the house like we did before.The primary difference between these two programs is the amount of a customers annual household income.Weatherization Assistance for Qualified CustomersFamily sizeMonthly income range1$0 to $1,9622$0 to $2,6553$0 to $3,3484$0 to $4,0425$0 to $4,7352016 GuildelinesTo see if you qualify for this program, call these contractors in your area: El Ada Community Action Partnership (serving Ada, Elmore and Owyhee counties) at 208-322-1242 or CCOA Aging, Weatherization and Human Services (serving Adams, Boise, Canyon, Gem, Payette, Valley and Washington counties) at 208-459-0065.Weatherization Solutions for Eligible CustomersFamily sizeMonthly income range1$1,716 to $2,4522$2,323 to $3,3193$2,930 to $4,1854$3,536 to $5,0525$4,143 to $5,9192016 GuildelinesTo see if you qualify for this program, call these contractors in your area: Power Savers (serving Ada, Elmore and Owyhee counties) at 208-377-0700 or Energy Zone, LLC (serving Adams, Boise, Canyon, Gem, Idaho, Payette, Valley and Washington counties) at 208-459-0066.Help us, help you save energy and feel warm, comfortable and safe in your home. Were sure youll be glad you did!Learn more at idahopower.com/weatherization.[i] If you are participating in Weatherization Solutions and your home is a rental, the landlord must pay a small portion of the total cost of improvements.

Turn to ADCO Hearing for hearing devices for deaf sourced from some of the best-selling brands in the market. We have an extensive selection of assistive devices, amplified phones, hearing aid supplies, and more for all your hearing needs. ADCO Hearing has been changing lives since the 1950s and today, we can provide the hearing support YOU need. We strive to provide products, expertise, and service to those living with hearing loss so you get to live more comfortably. Take a look at our collection and go with ADCO today!Check out the assistive listening devices, amplified cordless phones, ear care and hearing supplies, and other professional supplies from diagnostic supplies, earlights, pocket lights, tinnitus maskers, to otoscopes on our website.

My squadron received orders to ship out to destination PLUM. We left Salt Lake City on October 21, 1941. We arrived in Manila noon November 20 on Thanksgiving Day. We were served sauerkraut and wieners for Thanksgiving dinner. We left Manila November 29th for the island of Mindanao to set up an airbase.On December 8th, 1941, instead of the 7th due to being on the other side of the International Date Line, we learned that Pearl Harbor had been attacked.On May 6th word came that all the Philippine Islands had been surrendered to the Japanese. We were taken as prisoners of war to a Philippino army camp in the middle of Mindanao. We were moved from this camp October 17th and shipped to the Davao Penal colony. Others were shipped down from Manilla to help run the colony, these were the men who had survived the Bataan death march and were in very poor health.May 1944 we received the first letters from home since leaving home and it was one and a half years old. June 6, 1944 we were shipped to Japan. The trip took 3 months of deplorable conditions, which normally took 10 days. Arrived at Moji, Japan, September 1, 1944 where we were to work in the copper and acid factory. For two weeks we drilled out on the cold beach with only a hat, shoes and underwear on.On June 18th, 1945 we had the first bombing of our factory by the allied forces. August 15, 1945 stopped work at the factory and on the 24th we were notified that the war was over. It came just in time for me as I had a hard time getting any sleep for many nights due to the fleas, bed bugs and lice that were about to get the best of me.On September 4, 1945 we marched out of camp waving flags some of the men had made, while U.S. and British planes buzzed overhead. I arrived back in Salt Lake City, October 21, four years to the day after leaving.Editors Note: This article was submitted by Carole Autrey, Director of Senior Care Associates. She may be reached at 801-424-1444 .

If the patient is not a Medicare Recipient and is covered by the VA, the VA will make payments directly to their contracted agencies. If a patient is a Veteran, but is a Medicare Recipient, they may choose any Medicare approved hospice agency for their care.#listing_mgr{1 basic_search}#

Maryann is 78 and living in her home with an abusive spouse. Maryann requires home health care during the day, and her husband provides her care throughout the night. Maryann confides in her home health care provider, Virginia, that her husband is abusive and that she needs help and would like to live in a safe place. Maryann says her husband pushes her down at night, and wont help her get up. She has had to visit the emergency room several times due to injuries from these episodes; but always says she just falls.Maryann has no income independent from her spouse. Her children, although aware of the decades of abuse, are unwilling or unable to assist their mother in relocating to a safe place.This scenario is real and it is real in Fremont County. Domestic violence does not occur only to younger, underprivileged people, or even just older, underprivileged people. Domestic violence knows no age, sex, religious or socio-economic boundaries. As in all family violence, their abuse ranges from the obvious physical and economic abuse, to the less obvious social isolation and emotional abuse. The tragic news is that there are an estimated 200 to 250 incidents of domestic violence among seniors in Fremont County on an annual basisand yet it goes virtually unreported.We now know that there are unique factors that pose a barrier to these individuals reporting the incidents to then seek assistance. Some of the key factors that contribute to non-reporting are shame (i.e. older victims feels they should know better), economic dependency, poor health, or they are too old to start over. But, it does not have to be that way.The Fremont County Domestic Violence Coalition is ready and available to help both individual victims and also offers informational sessions to groups and organizations.Author:Dee Hoza and Barb Topliss the District Attorneys office

To update, or not to update: that is the question.The question real estate agents repeatedly hear from homeowners is, Why would I do anything to my house if Im going to sell it anyway? Conventional wisdom tells us that we should avoid doing anything to our homes that the new owners may not like and will change the moment they move in. The reality is much different, however. Because home prices have risen so dramatically over the past five years, homebuyers have little to no money to improve the home they just purchased. With the cost of borrowing money currently so low, buyers dont mind spending more if the home is move-in ready.When evaluating where to spend the money, assign your projects into two categories: 1) deferred maintenance and 2) cosmetic improvements. Deferred maintenance should take priority: a furnace that is on its last leg, a leaky faucet, or a deck with peeling paint are some examples. Addressing these will not precipitate a high return on investment (ROI), but ignoring them will significantly decrease your sales price, and may even turn away buyers from considering your home. Once priority items are completed, consider budgeting for cosmetic items, which will bring the highest ROI. Home design trends are cyclical and what was in style last year may not be next year. Focus on updating the appearance of your flooring and paint. Your current carpet may last you another 10 years, but nothing transforms a space more effectively than new carpet. Carpets that are a mix of neutral beiges and creams are the most appealing to the buying public. Be careful not to spend more than $5 per square foot for carpet, pad, and installation. The cost to replace carpet typically brings a three-to-one ROI at the time of sale. When combined with new paint, new flooring gives a property a new home smell, neutralizing the evidence of years of living, cooking, and even smoking. Fresh, neutral paint also enhances the appearance of a home, providing a blank canvas that allows a homebuyer to easily visualize their own dcor and furniture in the home.Editors Note: This article was submitted by Blair Bryant of The Steller Group at Keller Williams Realty. He may be reached at 720-593-9355

To learn more about Tracy Aviary,CLICK HERE.Fish? But I thought Tracy Aviary was all about birds!Birds and fish are closely connected. In the wild, birds rely on fish as their food source. Even here at Tracy Aviary some of our birds eat fish as part of their diet, including our American White Pelicans. By being conscientious about which fish we eat, we can help ensure a sustainable fish supply in the oceans for years to come.We may not live near the ocean, as much as Id like to imagine Great Salt has hidden tidepools on the west shore. But that doesnt mean we cant still enjoy some nice sushi or grilled salmon. Fish is imported here from all around the world, so there can be a wide range in how sustainably that fish is caught or raised.Try to get fish that is caught or farmed in a way that doesnt harm the environment or other wildlife. That includes:Species has a healthy population (Not overfished)Fishing gear has a minimal impact on the environment (no dredging!)As local as possible (other countries may have weaker fishing regulations)There are so many different types of fish, and so many different ways to farm them or catch them, that it can be overwhelming. Ponds, pens, raceways, recirculating tanks, trolling, purse seining, trawling (bad! It scrapes the seafloor), gillnetting, harpoons, longlining, pots. I even learned a few new things myself while writing this! How are you supposed to know which exact fish to buy? Thats where the Monterey Bay Aquarium Seafood Watch guide comes in handy.If youre looking for shrimp, go for US farmed instead of imported. If youre more of a salmon person, they recommend buying salmon from New Zealand, as opposed to salmon from Chile, Norway, or Scotland.

Do you want to move as you grow older? Most people want to stay in the homeWhere all their memories have been made the home they love. The top reasons to remain in your existing home include:Maintaining IndependenceStaying in your own home can allow you to remain independent with the freedom to make your own choices. Having control over your own daily routine and making your own decisions allows you to retain your self-worth and dignity, which can help you keep a positive outlook and enjoy good emotional health as you age.Maintaining Family and Social ConnectionsIf youve lived in your home for a number of years, you have established friendships and social connections in yourneighborhoodand local community. You can also spend as much time as you desire with your children, grandchildren and other relatives, and on your schedule.Reduced Exposure to Contagious IllnessesWhen you live independently, you have less risk of catching the flu, cold and other such contagious illnesses that tend to spread quickly in settings where residents live near and share resources.Keeping a PetIf you have a dog or cat, you can continue to enjoy the unconditional love and companionship they give if you remain in your own home.Comfort and Quality of LifeYouve probably spent years making your home into a comfortable haven, and its likely filled with treasured memories and possessions. Having to givethat up because of mobility and safety concerns with your home can be a traumatic experience.The good news is, with a few modifications, you can stay at home comfortably and safely for the rest of your life! Retaining your quality of life in a familiar environment might simply involve making modifications like adding a ramp to access your homes entryway, installing a stair liftso you can safely reach the second floor, or having the bathroom equipped with grab bars and an easy entry shower or walk-in tub.At Remodel Direct, were here to help you address any safety and accessibility concerns so you can age in place in your own home and continue enjoying an independent lifestyle.Contact us today to schedule a free home safety assessment!EDITORS NOTE: Submitted by Dave Wilson, Remodel Direct dave@remodeldirect.com

One reoccurring comment hospices receive is, I wish we would have received hospice sooner. So, why are families not informed about hospice earlier? It is a complicated question, but one reason lies with doctors.Doctors are often the gatekeepers to hospice referrals because Medicare requires a doctor to certify that the patient could pass away in the next six months if the illness runs its normal course. As a result, some doctors are reluctant to refer to hospice.Interestingly, doctors often state they believe hospice helps improve the quality of life for those with a serious illness. So why are doctors hesitant to refer to hospice? There has been a recent study suggesting that doctors do not want to accept the fact that their patient will die. It also indicates that doctors have been socialized that death is a failure.Reasons doctors may struggle to make a hospice referral: Lets face it - doctors are humans and talking about the possible death of their patient can be very uncomfortable. It may be more comfortable ordering a procedure than to have a difficult heart to heart discussion.Determining the right time to have the conversation about end of life wishes can be challenging.Doctors may believe their job is to cure or to relieve a particular symptom. Some may think that referring to hospice could cause the patient to lose hope or give up.Doctors may believe some of the frequent misconceptions about hospice. A common myth isthat the doctor will have to give up their patient and hospice will withhold services from their patient. However, most hospice companies want the doctor to remain involved.Patients often see multiple physicians. Doctors may believe that the disease they are treating is not the life-limiting illness so they are waiting for another physician to have the conversation.Time doctors treat patients in a system that discourages lengthy visits. These conversations take time.The Good News: The Care Planning Act has been introduced into legislation. If approved, this will create a new Medicare benefit called Planning Services for those with advanced illnesses. This approach will give individuals facing serious illnesses more of a voice in their care. Additionally, this bill would allow doctors to be reimbursed for time spent with their patients having these conversations.In the meantime remember your doctor is human. If you have questions about any end of life issues dont hesitate to begin the conversation with your physician if your physician does not initiate the conversation.

Seniors and those recovering from surgery/injury can often feel isolated and/or afraid. Caregivers, whether family or professional, can participate in their care and provide personal interaction, but often are only in attendance as needed. Fortunately, we have come a long, long way in how technology can help create needed connections to the outside world. Most of us cannot imagine a world without computers, or at least tablets and smartphones. But, many seniors still find these to be intimidating, having grown up in a time where telephones had wires and dials! The good news is that technology has made the new tools incredibly simple to use.We at Just Like Family, encourage our clients, families, and friends to take advantage of the technological connections that are possible. Minimally, todays cell phones can provide access, inexpensively, to basic phone calls, email and texting to family and friends, even internationally. Helping seniors, especially, understand the service they have, and how much access it can provide is critical.While the phone can handle much more than basic calls and texting, access to a tablet and/or a computer makes access to these other tools much more enjoyable, if only for the size of the screen. Phones & TabletsWe encourage seniors and patients to obtain a tablet/computer and learn how to participate in the following:FaceTimeHaving a conversation where you can actually see the other party is amazing. Not only can the senior see how the grandkids have grown, but the other party can check on the condition of their loved one and even their surroundings. Simple explanations of how FaceTime works are offered via YouTube and other how to sites. Other programs, such as Skype, offer similar service, but FaceTime seems to be the most popular and easiest to use.MusicWith a little help, seniors can set up their tablet (or phone) to play their favorite music, perhaps re-living special memories connected to certain songs. Most of us find that music lifts our spirits, if even just for short periods of time.Brain ActivityTablets or computers are especially good for activities that keep the brain engaged, as a larger screen makes these more enjoyable. We encourage seniors to use technology for:ReadingThe ability to adjust the font, colors, etc. is very helpful to those whose vision is not as sharp. Online e-books can be found for free, or at a low cost. Those who struggle with memory issues find that highlighting certain passages improves memory, and appreciate the ability to search for a person or action that they dont remember. In addition to e-books, newspaper subscriptions are available at a significantly lower cost than print versions and can help the reader stay current with local events.Mind/Brain Exercise Apps, many for free, are available for many games or activities that help keep the brain sharp. Examples are Sudoku, Scrabble, and crossword puzzles. A simple search for brain games, however, identifies many more.Technology Supporting Seniors Living At HomeBeyond the basic computer/table/phone ideas, new technologies provide other services that specifically help senior and the homebound. Three specific components we recommend be considered:Emergency Response SystemWe tend to think of this as the Ive fallen and I cant get up system, but much more is available. A button you can push to summon help is still there, but the systems can also track whether the client has been still for too long, or has actually fallen. Seniors report that the button makes them feel much more secure about continuing to live at home, as well as feel connected to the outside world. In the worst situation, this technology can literally be a life-saver.Medication Management (Reminding/Dispensing)You dont have to be a senior to have trouble remembering to take your medication, but many of our clients report this as an issue. Simple options, such as a weekly box that is loaded with medications for each day of the week, and even for A.M. and P.M., are widely available. Many pharmacies, and companies, now package prescriptions for their clients by the day, or multiple times a day. Technology is also bringing us systems that remind us what to take when, and how much. These systems can include alarms and reminders (such as take at bedtime.) Use of these systems is encouraged, and we look forward to even more options in the future.SmartHome TechnologyThe ability to see what is going on, inside and outside of the home, as well as to control ones surroundings is the latest technological advancement. The ability to see who is at the front door, and even to talk to that person, is a technology our clients might find useful. Many report that they feel much safer, and therefore more comfortable being alone, with this simple device. Other technologies to consider include those that allow the resident to address comfort issues without moving, including applications/devices that allow the resident to use their phone to adjust the temperature, turn the lights off and on, and even lock/unlock doors.Technology And Home CareTechnology will never replace personal care, but it can help reduce the amount of care needed and increase self-sufficiency. Technology will never replace the joy of an in-person visit with a caretaker, family member or friend. But, the ability to connect via technology can overcome long distance, and well as time challenges. We all can find technology a challenge, but the joy and connection it brings make the effort worthwhile. Written and Submitted By: Just Like Family Home care - click here for more information

Paying for Long-Term Care and Medicaid EligibilityOne of the most critical needs faced by a person who is chronically ill is the need to pay for care in a nursing home or in an assisted living facility. Unfortunately, this is expensive, with the average cost of care in a nursing home in the State of Colorado at $6,394 monthly (that doesnt include extras such as Medicare copayments and personal needs). Since many senior citizens dont have that kind of income, they are placed in a position where their savings are at risk. Long-term care insurance is frequently not an option because its expensive and cant be purchased once someone has a diagnosis like Alzheimers.The last resort for payment for long-term care is qualifying for Medicaid. You can apply at the local county department of human services. In Colorado, most nursing homes accept Medicaid as a form of payment and offer good basic care to Medicaid beneficiaries.You need to have income and assets below certain levels to get Medicaid. The maximum amount of income depends on the county in which the nursing home (or assisted living facility) is located. In most of the metropolitan Denver counties, the income maximum is $6,914 monthly for 2011. In Douglas County, it is $6,412 monthly.In terms of assets, a married couple (when only one of you is applying) can own a home regardless of its value. They can also own one car, an unlimited amount of household goods and personal effects, and an irrevocable prepaid burial plan, regardless of value. On top of that, the spouse who needs Medicaid can have $2,000 in other assets. The spouse who doesnt need Medicaid can have $109,560 in other assets (this figure can be increased under certain circumstances). The spouse staying at home may be eligible to keep a portion of the institutionalized spouses income, if they can show that they need it. Single people dont have as much ability to shelter assets but some advance planning can help.Trusts and annuities frequently cause problems with respect to Medicaid eligibility and should be used carefully. Otherwise, Medicaid benefits could be lost needlessly.The best advice is to consult someone knowledgeable in the field of Medicaid planning well in advance. Careful future planning can save dollars without losing Medicaid eligibility, and can remove much of the fear and uncertainty people experience when someone gets sick.Editors Note: This article was submitted by Bernard A. Poskus, Esq. He is an Attorney at Poskus, Caton & Klein, P.C. and may be reached at 303-832-1600. For more information visit Poskus, Caton & Klein, P.C. on the web at: www.poskuscatonklein.com.

What happens when you reach that point in life where you are required to take medications daily but can't seem to remember to do so? It might be time for an Automatic Medication Dispenser.What is this you might ask?Automatic Medication Dispensers are medical devices that can be programmed to organize and remind you when and what medications to take. They come in a variety of sizes to accommodate those who take few medications daily and those whose medication list never seems to stops growing. You can program the device with morning, afternoon and night reminders; many have flashing lights, audio alarms, and buzzing vibrations for those who are hard of hearing. At the set time the device will alert you and then dispense the appropriate medications. Most of these devices are programmed and monitored by your registered nurse (RN) or other assistant providers.What are the benefits of having one?- Set it and forget it. Once the device is set for the week there is no more worrying about taking the right pills at the right time- Convenience. Having all your medications stored in one secure place- No cost! That's right; many home health care companies provide this service free of charge while using their services.- Reduces the risk of forgetting to take your medication or taking the wrong medication at the wrong time.- Medication Protection. The devices typically have locks on them so that your medications don't go missing. Automatic Medication dispensers are great for anyone who struggles to remember to take their medications or who is maybe struggling to remember things in general!Editors Note: This article was submitted by Adrienne Sirstins, with Midas Creek Home Health and may be reached at 801.302.8526 or by email at midascreekhh@digis.net

Rehabilitation Facilities offer restorative therapies such as PT, OT, Speech and Respiratory therapies and can be offered in a variety of settings including clinical and office practices, hospitals, skilled-care nursing homes, sports medicine clinics., and some health maintenance organizations. See our Skilled Nursing grid for a complete overview of rehabs available and the services they provide.#listing_mgr{7 basic_search}#

The New Choices Waiver is Medicaid program designed to help nursing home residents move to more independent community settings, whenever possible, without compromising medical or safety needs. The basic eligibility requirements are:Must be a least 21 years of age.Must have resided in a nursing home for a minimum of 90 days and be medically eligible for Medicaid long term care; or, must have resided in a nursing home for a minimum of 30 days on a Medicare stay and be eligible for Medicaid long term care at the end of the Medicare stay.Medicaid or Medicare must have paid for the nursing home stay for a minimum of 30 days immediately prior to discharge on New Choices Waiver.Referrals are done directly with the Long Term Care Bureau at the Department of Health and can be made to either Kathleen Bowman at 538-6497, or Vicki Ruesch at 538-6148.Eligible referrals are given their choice of case management agencies who will first conduct an assessment to see if the person can have their care needs safely managed outside of the nursing home. If that is possible, the case management agency will work with the person to find a placement that can manage their needs.Potential placements include assisted living, residential settings, independent living, or home with family.Waiver participants are required to pay for their own room and board costs (generally between $400 and $700 per month) and the New Choices Waiver pays for the services provided at the facility. The case management agency will also help arrange for other needed services such as home health, medical equipment, medical supplies, homemaker services, budget assistance, and respite care.Case managers remain involved on an ongoing basis to help coordinate medical and mental health care, changes in service needs, changes in placement sites, and hospital admissions and discharges. Case managers are also available to provide ongoing care assessments and help with problem solving any issues related to service and placement.For more information please contact either Jim Reichelt or Don Fennimore with FlexCare at 273-6366.FlexCare has been a case management provider for these services since 2000 and has successfully moved over 1,400 individuals back into the community.Author:Jim Reichelt or Don Fennimore

A New Decade, A Fresh and Safe StartWith the start of a new decade, it's a great time to get a fresh start. Make your space safe and comfortable by getting rid of the stuff you really dont need or want anymore. The challenge is deciding what to let go of. Here are some helpful tips to consider.Only keep what you LOVE and what you NEED.Everything else is just more stuffget rid of it!!Ask yourself whats the worst thing that will happen if you let go of this item?When is the last time you used this item?If its been more than a year, its not worth keeping.Did this item come into your life for a reason (one time occasion), a season (for a little while) or a lifetime (a forever keeper)?If it has a special memory but you really dont want it in your space anymore, take a picture of it and then let it go.Would you enjoy the money youd get from selling the item more than keeping the item itself?Here are some helpful tips for purging papers!Schedule a particular time on your calendar to do this project.Get support from someone in your life before you start, and plan on reporting to them after to share your success!Make it pleasant, put on music that is soothing and uplifting, preferably instrumental.(Lyrics can clutter your brain when youre trying to concentrate on this project!) Light a candle, open a window, get the air smelling good and fresh.Remove all bills and statements that are from the previous year.If they need to be kept for tax purposes or permanent records, file them in your archive files Shred or recycle the rest.Remember: Tax files only need to be kept for seven years.Glance through ALL of your files to purge what is no longer relevant. Example: Outdated events and documents, closed accounts, instruction manuals for items you no longer own, etc.Reward yourself in some special way when you have finished!Its going to feel GREAT to get this handled, so go for it!!If you are not able to complete these tasks on your own, hire a professional organizer.The cost will be offset by your increased safety and happiness.Editors Note: The author, Cheryl Chandler, is a Professional Organizer experienced in handling the needs of seniors. Please call her at (801) 759-1195 for a FREE 15-minute Phone Consultation.

SAINT ALPHONSUS MAKING A CRITICAL DIFFERENCE FOR SENIORS In response to the needs of an aging population, Saint Alphonsus Health System opened Senior ERs this past year within all their emergency departments in Boise, Eagle, Nampa (2 locations), Ontario and Baker City. Saint Alphonsus emergency staff are highly skilled and trained to provide the most advanced medical care for patients of all ages, said Sally Jeffcoat, President and CEO, Saint Alphonsus Health System. As part of our mission to heal body, mind, and spirit we have chosen to seek additional training and education and go even further to address an unmet need for this growing segment of our population. We are proud to be the first in Idaho and Oregon to create Senior ERs. Saint Alphonsus Senior ERs address the special medical needs, preferences and physical comforts of older adults and their caregivers. Beyond the typical ER visit, where staff focus on treating the medical issue at hand, the Senior ERTM goes deeper, assessing and addressing root causes for each visit . The care and attention senior patients receive is intended to make them feel more calm, safe, secure, informed and cared for. And caregivers can have greater peace of mind that staff are looking at their loved ones long-term needs. To create the Senior ERTM, Saint Alphonsus implemented fundamental changes in culture, physical environment and operations. Each Senior ERTM is run by a specially trained care team focused on providing a better, gentler, more patient-centered experience that produces better patient outcomes. Emergency Nurses have completed in-depth courses on Geriatric Emergency Nursing Education Emergency physicians have specialized knowledge in the care of seniors Pharmacists may review medications that could pose a problem or may have contributed to the patients ER visit Licensed social workers or case managers may be available to discuss care options and screenings with both the patient and the caregiver Facility modifications have been made to address the safety, comfort and communication for seniors, and may include: quieter setting for care pressure reducing mattresses hearing and vision aids large print appropriate flooring and lighting Saint Alphonsus has physical variations in each ER. In some locations, seniors will be treated in dedicated Senior ERTM space and in others all patient beds are outfitted for seniors. The Boise ER is currently under construction to expand to better serve the needs of seniors, so the accommodations will change during each phase of construction. No matter what physical variations you may encounter, all Saint Alphonsus staff have received the additional, specialized training and are committed to offer a similar Senior ERTM experience to all seniors accessing emergency services. Locations: Boise1055 N Curtis Road Eagle323 E Riverside Drive (Eagle Road/State Hwy 44) Nampa1512 12th Avenue Road Nampa4400 E. Flamingo Road (off I-84/Garrity Exit) Ontario351 SW Ninth Street Baker City3325 Pocahontas Road

To learn more aboutBloom Companion Care,CLICK HERE.Our StoryWhen my husband Davids parents moved to Omaha, we were naive as to what would follow. We wouldnt just be charged with making sure Ben and Louise were physically safe. We would notice a decline in their spirit, the result of a measurable loss of autonomy.Through our experience, we realized that our parents may not be comfortable being on the receiving end of I need help. Learning what they deem to be fundamentalfeeling connected and contributivebecame our priority. We also realized navigating the way isnt always easy. In Davids family, there are four available siblings who provide help in different areas. Each of them has a vital role assisting with Ben and Louises care, but without a centralized communication system, the information was hard to track. Each sibling often spent an hour or two a day sharing information with other siblings to stay connected. We needed a convenient platform for communication.So We Formed BloomBloom provides companion care to help connect aging parents and loved ones to the outside world as their abilities shift. We want to help them prioritize what they need, help them be independent in spirit even if it isnt always possible in body. At Bloom, we understand that when you need to seek assistance, you want someone who understands and appreciates your parents. Our interview process helps us to better understand your parents contributions, curiosities and legacy. We then match CNAs and Companions who have the most potential to appreciate and contribute to your parents well-being to help them stay connected to the outside world.Exercise, new activities, eating well and socializing are essential to keeping the brain and the body healthy. We present new activities via a broad community calendar to help your parents stay connected. Our Louise loves to socializejokes are her usual form of entry. Getting her out often, so she isnt telling the same jokes to the same people, is important. This is just one small thing that adds to her overall happiness.Concierge Companion CareBloom Companion Care offers concierge companion care of all levels. Whether your loved ones are dependent, on bed rest, recuperating from surgery or simply need an extra hand, we specialize in concierge companion care that is unique to you, your needs and your schedule.What About Services Outside Companion Care?We have a list of preferred service providers within our community that are sensitive to elder concerns and needs. We want to aid you in any way we can to take the pressure off of you being the caregiver and instead returning to the loving advocate role that feels more appropriate for both yourself and your parent or loved one.

If you are a life-long student still hoping to complete that dream of a bachelors degree, consider the Bachelor of Arts in Multidisciplinary Studies at Boise State University. This degree is designed to help adults successfully complete a degree while balancing life with school. Whether its to show your children or grandchildren that its never too late to seek out education or something that you want to check off your bucket list, we can help you get there.Our students average age is 42 years old, with our youngest students in their mid to late twenties to our most senior student at age 82, who is graduating this semester! If you prefer a completely online option, consider the Bachelor of Arts in Multidisciplinary Studies online degree.The Multidisciplinary Studies degree is designed for students with 58 or more college credits and at least five years of work/life experience. An individual customized degree completion plan is created by the student and approval is granted for course selections designed around personal and professional goals.Many of our students did not take the traditional four year plan through school opting for more of a scenic route through education and are now ready to get that diploma. With a little more time on their hands and the handsome fee waiver for Idaho residents that dream can become a reality. Idaho residents who are at least 60 years old may register for courses and pay $5 per credit hour, a $20 registration fee (per semester), and any special fees (such as for private music lessons, workshops, or laboratory fees).Give us a call and lets see how we can help you finish that dream of completing your Bachelors Degree, its just a phone call away!For more information, please contact mds@boisestate.edu or call 426-3721 and speak with Vicki Budd, Program Director, Alexis, or Rebecca for more detailed information visit our website at http//sspa.boisestate.edu/mds.Editors Note: This article was written by Vicki Budd, Program Director for the Bachelor of Arts in Multidisciplinary Studies. Visit http//sspa.boisestate.edu/mds for more information.

When patients and their families experience a life-limiting illness, the physical and emotional challenges are burden enough. But the financial stresses sometimes are more than a family can bear. So its vital to fully understand the financial benefits available to Medicare enrollees who choose to take advantage of their hospice benefit.The Medicare Hospice Benefit is ALL-INCLUSIVE. Medicare-certified hospices must accept the per diem reimbursement rate as 100 percent coverage for the services provided to the hospice patient and family.For patients, that means no more co-pays, deductibles or coverage limits. All prescription medications, lab and diagnostic work, and medical equipment and supplies related to the patients terminal illness are provided at no cost to the patient. It also means that hospice professionals provide care related to the patients terminal illness at no additional cost to the patient.Hospice is a Medicare benefit that provides care for both the patient and the patients loved ones. The Medicare Hospice Benefit requires all Medicare-certified hospices to provide an organized program of services to meet the bereavement needs of the family for at least one year after the beneficiarys death. This helps to ensure that all terminally ill patients and their families have ready access to compassionate and effective end-of-life care. Visit vitas.com/florida or call VITAS at 866-928-4827.Editors Note: Submitted by Tamara DeCaro, Director of Market Development, VITAS Innovative Hospice Care of Collier County

History is not just what we read in books. It is in our lives.Have you ever stopped to consider who might be interested in the stories we have to tell? Perhaps our children or family, but increasingly historians are seeking to preserve accounts of times gone by. In 2000, the Library of Congress began collecting war stories through the Veterans History Project. Already, tens of thousands of submissions have been made. You dont have to be a veteran, however, to have interesting stories to tell from your life. Consider trying the following exercise. Take a large piece of paper and draw a line from left to right. Write the year of your birth at the left end of the line and add a mark on the line for every ten years of your life and label it with the year. Continue the line beyond your current age. This is your life line. Above the line, jot down your earliest memoriesthe first birthday you remember, the first day of school, your childhood home, your first kiss, etc. Keep going with other significant memories in your lifeyour first job, a long trip you took, your wedding day, the birth of children, the death of a friend. Try to put the events in the decade of your life in which they occurred. Next, below the line note significant events that were going on in the world and put them roughly where they fall in the chronology you have laid out. You might include wars, economic fluctuations, social movements, technological changes, population shifts, popular trends, or influential leaders. Fill in the portion of the line to the right of your current age with what you believe life holds for you in those coming decades. Include your hopes and dreams, your wishes and desires, perhaps some regrets, and how you want to be remembered. Now, sit with someone and talk the walk. Take them through your life line from left to right, talking about what was going on in your life and in the world during each decade. If possible, have someone videotape the discussion as you go through your life. You can make it as detailed or summarized as you like, but be sure to tell some of the stories that fill up your page. And dont forget to comment on your future Zane Robertson is the President of Active Minds, a Denver-based provider of educational programs for seniors. He is a frequent speaker on lifelong learning and senior education and served on the Denver Commission on Aging and the board of the Denver Coalition for Seniors. Active Minds programs are available in many of Denvers finest senior residential communities as well as a variety of public venues. For more information, contact Mr. Robertson at 303?320?7652 or visit www.activeminds.com.

The challenges faced by individuals with Parkinsons disease (PD), even within their own homes, can be many and varied. PD is a disease that develops and worsens slowly over time. Symptoms range widely from motor symptoms (like tremors, coordination, balance, walking deficits, lack of facial expression, decreased vocal volume and inflection) to non-motor symptoms (like depression, anxiety, constipation, lethargy). Symptoms can vary greatly from person to person, depending on how long they have had the disease, what sorts of treatments they employ, as well as other disease processes and other factors which may impact them. Treatments which can be used to successfully manage the symptoms and may assist with slowing the disease progression include medication management, evidence-based, PD-specific exercise programs and possibly surgery.Skilled home care agencies working with these individuals are in the unique position of seeing exactly what challenges patients with PD and their care partners face in their homes. Symptoms can fluctuate, sometimes in an unpredictable manner. Skilled home health staff can help to improve safety and function within the home, as well as help with the transition back to the community.Within the home, individuals with Parkinsons disease may struggle with slow, small movements which can affect their ability to dress, bathe, move in bed and prepare food efficiently and safely. Deficits in walking caused by PD may make it difficult to negotiate changes in flooring, small spaces and doorways, and may also increase an individuals risk for falls.Individuals with PD and their care partners may require community resources and/or may need to find additional caregiver help in the home and information regarding finances and planning for the future. Lack of facial expression, deficits in speech and decreased breath support may impact communication and individuals may have cognitive deficits. Correct and timely medication regimens are also integral to safe and efficient management of symptoms.Home health clinicians with specialized training coordinate closely with all team members to target the deficits associated with Parkinsons disease. RNs, PTs, OTs, STs, MSWs and CNAs enable their patients with PD to meet their goals and maximize their potential.Editors Note: This article was submitted by Susie Lefebvre, PT, of Boulder Community Home Care. For more information she can be reached at 303-415-4515

What is a Continuum of CareThe phrase continuum of care has been around for a while but not all providers are part of a true continuum when it comes to caring for seniors. Most providers involved in a continuum of care system offer opportunities for seniors to remain within a system that provides an array of services, often allowing a senior to age in place, knowing they dont have to move or change caregivers, even as their healthcare needs change.A full continuum for senior care typically contains the following spectrum of senior housing and healthcare options; post-hospital rehabilitative care, dementia care services, traditional skilled, long-term nursing care, assisted living and senior living options, and hospice care.Breaking it downSkilled nursing services are devoted to people whose care needs require regular monitoring. This could be short-term for those who have been discharged from a hospital and need extra support time to recover, or those who need traditional longer-term nursing care. For short-term patients, rehabilitative therapy services are available on-site, as often as needed and as prescribed for optimal recovery and health.When the focus of care is on activities of daily living rather than on skilled nursing, these individuals can often thrive in an assisted or independent living community. Traditional assisted and independent living communities offer apartments and often include daily activity programs, 24/7 staffing, three meals a day, medication monitoring, and more.The home health care segment of a continuum allows for individuals to remain in their current living environment, with the add-on of in-home support for medically complex patients. This care may be provided by of nurses, physical, occupational, speech-language therapists and home health care aides.Additionally, homemaker and companion service allows individuals the added support they need to maintain their maximum independence in their own home and may include medication reminders to assistance with personal care, meal preparation, light housekeeping, etc.Hospice professionals provide the physical, emotional, social and spiritual support to terminally ill patients, as well as their families and loved ones, while assisting patients and families to live with dignity and comfort as they cope with end-of-life issues.Editors Note: This article was submitted by Tim Brown, who is director of marketing and communications with Athena Health Care Systems and may be reached at860.751.3900 or by email TBrown@AthenaHealthCare.com

Motivated by heart-breaking stories her own mother told about growing up in foster homes and determined to protect children in that situation now, Elaine Ellis became a Guardian ad Litem volunteer six years ago. Mom wasnt abused like many were back then, but she wasn't loved either, Elaine recalls. Now, she's working to make sure children in state custody, like 7-year-old Sarah and her 8-year-old brother, Elijah, are treated the way she wishes her Mom had been. Twice last year Sarah and Elijah needed someone in their corner, and both times Elaine was ready to stick up for them. The children's father disappeared years ago and their mother, Linda, fell and hit her head while working in Lewiston. Her injuries required a long hospital stay and months of rehabilitation. Doctors said it would be at least a year before she could care for herself and the children. With no one to care for them, Sarah and Elijah were placed in a foster home to wait for Linda to recover. Sarah and Elijah were devastated when I met them, Elaine said. I've never seen two sadder kids. Elaine visited them regularly - working hard to earn their trust in the months that followed. She took them books and blankets, checked on their grades, and listened to their stories about their Mother and all the things they would do when she was well. It was two months later that Sarah shared a secret with Elaine - a teenager in the foster home was abusing her brother, she confided. Elaine reported the abuse and Sarah and Elijah were immediately moved to another foster home. In the meantime, Linda's therapy progressed. Her condition improved enough to have visitors, and Sarah and Elijah were ecstatic to learn they would be able to see their mother over the Holiday break. Every time Elaine visited they were making plans for the visit. It was only four days before Christmas when Elaine got a frantic phone call from Carrie, the foster mom. Carrie told Elaine the arrangements for the children's Christmas visit with their mother hadn't been finalized, and no one at the Department of Health and Welfare had given approval for the trip. The person with the authority had left town, Elaine said. I just couldn't stand for them to have that kind of disappointment. It took dozens of calls and three trips to state offices but Elaine finally found someone with the authority and willingness to approve the trip, but there were still no travel arrangements. Finally, on Christmas Eve, Elaine found friends from church, foster parents, who were traveling to Lewiston and had room for two more passengers ensuring Sarah and Elijah would spend Christmas with their Mom as promised. There wasn't anyone to watch out for my Mom, Elaine said, I'm happy to be part of a program that watches out for kids like her now. Names changed to protect the identities of those we serve. This year over 1,100 children in the Treasure Valley were placed in foster care because of abuse or neglect. Family Advocates has trained over 350 volunteers to provide a voice to children in foster care through the Guardian ad Litem program. Family Advocates is in need of 120 additional volunteers to help meet demand and ensure all children have someone to stand up for them in times of need. If you are interested in becoming a Guardian ad Litem and making a difference in a child's life contact Brad Talbutt at 345-3344 or email bradt@familyadvocate.org. No experience is required. Family Advocates provides all volunteers with training and supervision by experienced staff.

Since establishing in 1985, Medical Claim Service of Southwest Florida has provided crucial administrative services to hundreds of people who value peace of mind.Every day, seniors are forced to spend their afternoons at the kitchen table sorting through confusing packets of information received in the mail, writing checks to pay monthly bills, balancing bank accounts and organizing everyday papers. In the best of cases, these administrative responsibilities are time consuming and frustrating. Errors are often made costing the seniors and their families money and aggravation. This is further complicated by medical conditions, bills with over-charges and inadequate insurance coverage, not to mention those confusing insurance statements called explanations of benefits.You or your loved ones can be spared the frustration, the time and the costly errors associated with this by utilizing the two-tiered concierge service at Medical Claim Service (MCS). Tier One is the medical and health insurance advocate service where MCS deals with your insurance company to file all claims, to ensure all medical bills are accurate and all benefits has been provided. Tier Two is the personal bill pay service that ensures monthly bills are paid accurately, that all accounts are balanced, arranged budgets are maintained and all IRS requirements are fulfilled. This service is accompanied with full monthly, quarterly and annual accounting reports that are provided to the client or to their loved ones to keep everyone up to date in terms that everyone understands.Talk to the specialists at MCS to see how you and your loved ones can benefit from having trained professionals with specialized knowledge and full state licensing manage your medical or personal paperwork. You and your loved ones deserve the peace of mind.Editors Note: This article was submitted by Stan Grigiski, Certified Claims Assistance Professional & Daily Money Manager, of Medical Claim Service of Southwest Florida, Inc. 239-772-2030 or www.WeGivePeaceOfMind.com.

Building the Case for Home CareThere are many misconceptions about home care. This article explores two of the most common questions: when is it indicated; and how is it paid for?When should you consider home care? There are two catalysts for home care: 1) medical need; 2) custodial need. Medical need typically follows a hospitalization or acute illness leaving you in need of highly skilled home care to help you improve your condition. Physicians must order home care services. The services are designed to improve your medical health to maximum improvement status. Often the intervention helps you regain your strength and stability after a period of illness. Thanks to a lawsuit brought by the Center for Medicare Advocacy, medical home care may now be paid by Medicare to prevent or slow the decline in condition. Custodial care may be indicated when a person is struggling to manage everyday tasks such as toileting, bathing and medication management or household tasks including homemaking, meal preparation or money management. It is more difficult to pinpoint that moment when custodial care is needed. Barriers may exist that prevent an individual from seeking assistance. Caregivers may feel guilt when they can no longer provide all necessary care. Seniors may feel that money saved over their lifetime should not be squandered away on their personal needs. It is sometimes difficult to accept ones frailty and the perceived loss of independence.How is home care paid? Medical care is often covered by Medicare and Medigap plans. Most care is limited in duration and ends once the patient has met an improvement threshold as determined by a physician. Keep in mind that medical care makes no provision to help you manage household activities as described above. Custodial care is paid for by the individual, family, Long Term Care (LTC) Insurance (if you have a policy) or Medicaid. Long Term Care Policies vary widely based on coverage and cost. A relatively small percentage of todays seniors have LTC insurance although more baby boomers are considering the option. Medicaid will cover custodial care only after you have impoverished yourself. Medicaid requires an individual to use their own assets before Medicaid begins. An individual can have no more than $1,600 in cash to qualify. Connecticut offers seniors with somewhat higher assets limited access to home care with certain restrictions. Visit www.SWCAA.org , CT Home Care tab for more information.

Attorneys and serving seniors often stress how important it is to begin senior estate planning or traditional estate planning with the execution of powers of attorney for both property and healthcare matters.However, with diminished mental capacity, sometimes it is difficult and some-times impossible to have such documents executed by a patient, resident, loved one or client due to the fact that they no longer possess the required cognitive capability to legally and ethically sign documents.Sometimes circumstances are very clear-cut as to whether mental capacity exists, but sometimes the facts surrounding the behavior of a loved one are not so clear or not so well understood. In situations where it is not clear you may need to seek consultation from a medical professional or mental health expert. If a formal assessment is desired, the attorney usually attempts to obtain the consent and cooperation of the client, if that is possible.Who does the lawyer look to as a referral for consultation on matters of diminished mental capacity if the attending physician will not undertake the assessment, you may look to other geriatric assessment professionals that can often take a multidisciplinary approach to determining diminished mental capacity.The Takeaway: Obtain and sign powers of attorney for healthcare and powers of attorney for property, as well as any other estate planning documents that you need for either senior estate planning or traditional estate planning, as soon as possible. The problem that arises: If you do not have the requisite mental capacity to legally and ethically execute documents, it may be necessary to engage in a protective action such as an expensive guardianship proceeding in the State of Illinois In our office we recommend people execute powers of attorney when they are 18 years of age! Dont fall into the trap of helplessness that diminished mental capacity can create, and possibly be permanently locked out of your constitutional right to self - determination, regarding your own health needs, property matters, estate plan, and other related matters.Editors Note: Article Submitted by: Anthony B. Ferraro BS, MSTax, CPA, JD, an Elder Law, Estate & Trust and Asset Protection Lawyer, A Lawyer for Aging Boomers and seniors. Partner of Di Monte & Lizak, LLC. 847698-9600 email: Anthony Ferraro - aferraro@dimontelaw.com; www.abferrarolaw.com

When a nursing home or assisted living home collects a resident's income, depositing the same, deducts for rent and other services provided by the facility (haircuts, manicures, co-payments for medical/pharmacy expenses), and acts as a fiduciary for this resident to the extent of services provided by the facility. I do not know the ultimate authority to whom the facility is answerable. It seems that if a resident has no family or has not given POA to someone, the facility is ultimately answerable to the State.#listing_mgr{1 basic_search}#

A Guardianship To Help Our Loved Ones All of us have family or friends who need assistance, whether financially, physically or, in the case of this article, mentally. In caring for our loved ones, it is important to know some legal guidelines to best serve them. When a person loses the ability to think clearly, it affects his or her ability to participate in meaningful decision-making. If that individual is unable to make rational, clear-headed decisions about health care, finances or other aspects of life, guardianship and/or conservatorship may be the next step if the person does not have power of attorney documents in place or if there is disagreement among family members about these issues. To appoint a guardian, a court must declare a person to be incapacitated based on findings where: A person who, due to his or her mental, physical and emotional status, prevents him or her from taking care of his/her own basic needs; and As a result, that person is in danger of substantial harm; and There is no one already legally authorized to make substitute decisions for the person. If the criteria are met, the court transfers the responsibility of determining living arrangements and medical decisions to the guardian and the responsibility for managing assets and finances to the conservator. Guardians and conservators have a duty to act in the best interest of the incapacitated person and in the least restrictive manner. Regular reports must be submitted to the court regarding the status of the incapacitated person and his or her finances and assets. Guardians - A guardianship is a legal right and duty given to a person to be responsible for managing the food, health care, housing, and other necessities of a person deemed fully or partially incapable of managing these necessities for him or herself. Conservators - A conservatorship is a legal right and duty given to a person to be responsible for managing the assets and finances of a person deemed fully or partially incapable of managing them for him or herself. Keep in mind it is possible to avoid the necessity of a guardianship and/or conservatorship through a good estate plan that includes both a medical power of attorney and a general durable power of attorney which permit trusted individuals to make health care decisions and manage financial affairs in the event of incapacity. This article was written by Donna A. Schuyler, Attorney, who practices in the areas of estate planning, elder law, guardianship and probate. Donna Schuyler Law, PLLC; elderlawboise.com; Phone 208-344-1947

A continuing care retirement community (CCRC) offers independent living residences for healthy, active retirees along with supportive health care services including assisted living and skilled nursing care. Cypress Cove, a full-service CCRC, offers maintenance- free living, fine dining, house-keeping, amenities and activities, transportation services and the assurance of future health care services as residents needs change. Why Do People Choose a CCRC?Most residents have reached a point in life where they would rather spend more time doing the things they love and less time with household responsibilities. A CCRC offers a worry-free retirement lifestyle. A move to a CCRC ensures that a plan is in place and puts an end to concerns about finding quality care if a health challenge arises. People selecting a CCRC want more control over their future, not putting the burden of those decisions on their families in a time of crisis. They also want a financial plan that gives them long-term security, so they aren't at the mercy of escalating pay-as-you-go health care costs.What Are the Fees and Contracts Involved in a CCRC?The majority of CCRCs in the region charge upfront entrance fees which vary based on the type of contract (lifecare versus fee-for-service), size of the residence selected, and whether the entrance fee is refundable. All-inclusive lifecare contracts provide assurance that future health care needs will be met over ones life-time at predictable and manageable costs. In addition to the up-front entrance fee, monthly fees are charged and based on the size of the residence, contract type, and number and frequency of services like meals, housekeeping, laundry and transportation that are included in the fee.What Does Cypress Cove Offer?Cypress Cove is an exceptional CCRC located in south Fort Myers on a beautiful and serene 48 acre campus at Healthpark Florida. Cypress Cove offers one and two-bedroom apartments and two and three-bedroom lakeside villas for independent living. On-site amenities include two fine dining restaurants, cocktail lounges, billiards, indoor swimming pool, woodshop, art studio, auditorium, beauty and barber shop, and Northern Trust bank to name a few. Our amenities are all under one roof, from the fitness club to the restaurants, so it is easy to get around rain or shine. Our health care services are highly regarded and include home health, assisted living, rehabilitation services and skilled nursing care providing a full continuum of care to meet residents needs.Editors Note: Editors Note: This article was submitted by Nicole D. Muller, Director of Marketing at Cypress Cove. Visit their website at www.cypresscoveliving.org

To learn more aboutInterim HealthCare,CLICK HERE.By Anna CiullaAs many as roughly one in five older adults (17 percent of seniors) may suffer from drug and/or alcohol abuse, according toresearch published by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). For professional caregivers, that means you could be caring for an older client who fits this profile, either now or in the future.Caregivers are often on the front lines of these issues, after all, by virtue of their duties. It is not uncommon for a caregiver to be in charge of monitoring and administering multiple prescription and over-the-counter medicationsso they may be the first to stumble upon the telltale signs of an addiction, such as multiple prescriptions for the same medication from different doctors, or bottles that have been emptied well before their monthly refill is due. Its also not uncommon for a caregiver to assist regularly with bathing and personal hygiene tasks, so caregivers may also be the first to notice bruises, bumps or cuts from drug- or alcohol-related falls or injuries. A caregiver is more likely to be the first on the scene when a fall or injury occurs, for that matter.The question thus becomes, do you know how to talk about a suspected drug or alcohol problem with a patient and their family? Here are some tips for having these conversations, including how to spot substance abuse in seniors, things to ask an older person when you suspect they have a problem, and what to say to a patient and family when encouraging them to get help.How to Spot Drug or Alcohol AbuseDrug and alcohol abuse can be hard to spot in a senior youre caring for, because a number of the symptoms can easily be mistaken for normal signs of aging. A senior may become depressed, for instance. They may display a lack of coordination and motor impairment, or mental confusion and poor memory. Fatigue, irritability, insomnia and chronic pain can also mimic symptoms of the natural aging processOne or more of the above symptoms can be a warning sign of substance abuse, but still other warning signs cited by the National Institutes of Health can help you isolate the problem:Rapid increases in the amount of medication neededFrequent requests for refills of certain medicinesA person not acting normally (showing a general lack of interest or being overly energetic)Doctor shopping (moving from provider to provider in an effort to get several prescriptions for the same medication)Use of more than one pharmacyFalse or forged prescriptionsMood changesWhat to Ask a Client When You Suspect Substance AbuseIf you suspect substance abuse based on the above warning signs, find a time when your client is not under the influence of drugs or alcohol to ask them gently one or more of the following questions. (Its also possible you will be able to answer some of these questions yourself, by closely observing your clients behavior.)Have you felt you ought to cut down on your drinking or drug use?Have people annoyed you by criticizing your drinking or drug use?Have you felt bad or guilty about your drinking or drug use?Have you ever had a drink or used drugs first thing in the morning to steady your nerves, get rid of a hangover, or to get the day started?These questions are taken verbatim from a short drug and alcohol screening and assessment tool known as CAGE, which has been effective at detecting substance abuse in older populations. A yes to just one of these four questions can indicate at-risk drinking or prescription drug misuse.Your tone and approach in asking these questions are also important. Often an ideal time to make these inquiries is when your client is experiencing the negative consequences of their addictive behavior, such as a hangover following a night of heavy drinking. In this context, they will be less likely to engage in denials or to react in defensiveness.You dont need to ask all four questions in one exchange, either. You may find that a better, less confrontational approach is to ask these questions over the course of several days or a week, depending on the urgency of the situation. In some cases, such as the imminent prospect of an overdose, it may be better to bookmark one conversation in which you field all of these questions with a view to expressing your concerns as lovingly and directly as you can.What to SayWhen you speak to an older adult client about a suspected substance abuse problem, keep in mind the following suggestions:Share your love and concern, especially what you admire in terms of your clients values, attributes and the things in their life that would be the most natural motivations to get help for a drug or alcohol problem (such as spending quality time with grandkids, learning a new hobby, leaving a positive legacy, etc.).Speak matter-of-factly about the warning signs and changes in behavior youve been noticing and why they are a source of concern.Ask your client whether they have noticed some of these same signs and changes in their behavior and inquire about what feelings and life stressors, in their opinion, may be triggering the substance abuse.Take a learning and listening posture, rather than talking down to the client.Ask them whether they feel drugs and alcohol are working for them as a long-term solution to their problemsand do listen attentively to what they have to say, without talking over them, interrupting them or offering quick fix-it solutions.Wherever possible, empathize with what your client is going through, and normalize what they are feeling: Its normal and understandable to seek an outlet for coping with these feelings of loneliness and grief after your wifes death.Invite your client to share how you can best support their recovery.Let your client know that treatment has helped many people recover from substance abuse and can do the same for them.Ask whether they would be open to a free phone consultation with an addiction treatment provider. (Sometimes a plea to enter treatment can be intimidating, but a no-strings-attached phone consultation less so.) If they are not open to this next step, a family intervention may be necessary. If they are willing to speak with a prospective treatment provider, then make the call for them.

Sean moved to the US as a teenager and has always struggled to keep tabs on his grandparents from afar. With the onset of COVID-19 exacerbating the situation, he struck inspiration and found the perfect solution for his problem.Most adult Americans dont live with their elders and have busy lifestyles. To check in, they call, text, and visit when they can. But much is often left unsaid. Seniors may not want to cause worry or may be unaware of their own health status. This lack of information causes anxiety for the children, and health risks for the seniors.Sean grew up in China and was very close to his grandparents. From early on, Grandma Ping was keen on getting Sean exposed to music. When Sean was a little boy, Grandpa Ming used to have him at the back of his bike and Grandma would ride alongside them to attend piano lessons.Since moving to Chicago, staying in contact has always been a challenge. Now that his family is half way across the globe, the time difference is almost complete opposite. Many times when Sean misses his grandparents and wants to check in, 2pm CT means its 3am in China.Seeing that current smartwatches only give users insights on their own health, Sean had the inspiration to create one which transfers that information to family members. Given his background in Engineering and now a grad student at the University of Chicago, Sean quickly formed a group of classmates who believed in the mission. Together, they developed PING, a senior-centric smartwatch that captures key vitals of the user and makes the information accessible to their family in real-time. Some of the measurements include pulse, blood pressure, blood oxygen, and temperature.The design of the watch is light and with a Velcro strap, the user can easily put on or take off the device. The display features larger buttons, texts, and a much simpler set of operations including medication reminders and notifications like calls and texts. PINGs solution enables seniors to better understand and manage their well-being. For family caregivers, they are empowered with critical information of their loved ones and the peace of mind no matter where they are.

No one wakes up in the morning with a deliberate plan to fail, but I do believe many of us plan for failure by simply procrastinating because while we all know we will die it all seems so far off. Unfortunately, too often the unexpected arises, and families are left scrambling to figure out what to do for those they love. When my mothers health became such that my father had to place her in long-term care I remember telling him how much the planning to care for her might cost. He told then he would gladly pay more than that for the problem to just go away.My parents had basic estate planning in place, but what they did not have was a plan for life and a plan for death. What is a plan for life? Well, it involves basic estate planning such as a will and powers of attorney, but it also includes contingency planning for the unexpected. For example, what is the plan if one spouse needs long-term care and the other does not? What happens if both require it? What happens if one spouse is in long-term care and the stay at home spouse dies. What happens if in a situation such as the ones Ive named the families are blended; who makes what decisions for whom?A plan for death is easier, but often neglected. We found out at my mothers death that we did not have the first idea how to have my mom interred in the local VA cemetery, and we had to wade through a lot of misinformation until we got the right information.What to do then? Plan for the unexpected. Consult with the necessary professionals today so that the unexpected does not catch you unawares. The decisions you make today will affect your family tomorrow; help them to enact your wishes by giving them the tools they need to implement your plans for both life and death. The problems will not just go away.Editors Note: This article was submitted by William H. Moller, Attorney and Counselor at Law, The Moller Law Group, LLC. He may be reached at 719-694-1284, or by email at whmoller@mollerlawgroup.com.

As a Certified Elder Law Attorney*, I am often asked by my clients how they can protect their savings from a nursing home.They think if they end up in the nursing home, their hard-earned assets and even their home could be lost. Theyve heard that perhaps they should give the home or money to their kids and want to know what I think about the strategy.I usually explain that transfers of assets to the kids are risky for a few reasons. First, youre giving up control of your stuff. Who wants to do that? Second, you may be making a capital gains tax mistake. Finally, youre subjecting your savings to your kids issues like future divorces or lawsuits.I then often explain a device called a Medicaid Asset Protection Trust is often a great solution. From a nursing home planning standpoint, it allows clients to protect assets without some of the risks associated with giving them to their kids. With this type of planning, the creator of the trust (called the Grantor) re-titles some of their assets to the trust. In doing so, the Grantor protects the savings from long term care costs.Consider the situation of Fred and Wilma. They are retirees who own their primary residence and have some investments. They feel comfortable that their retirement savings will provide well for them. There will likely even be some leftovers to leave as a legacy to their kids. However, they know that nursing homes can cost more than $100,000 per year. They know if one of them gets sick, the other spouse may not be able to enjoy a comfortable retirement.After our discussion, Fred and Wilma decide the Trust is right for their needs. They create the Trust and then re-title their home and some of their savings into the Trust.If youd like to learn more about how Medicaid Asset Protection Trusts work, check out the info at sechlerlawfirm.com or give us a call at 724-841-1393.Editors Note: This article was written by Certified Elder Law Attorney* Tim Sechler, Esq., Sechler Law Firm, LLC. See our ad on the Back Cover or contact us at 724-841-1393 or www.SechlerLawFirm.com.*Certified as an Elder Law Attorney by the National Elder Law Foundation as accredited by the Pennsylvania Supreme Court.

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There is a little-known pension for Veterans and their spouses to help pay for care costs. The Aid and Attendance Pension has been available for over 60 years, yet the VA estimates that millions of Veterans who qualify have not applied. Veterans earned this benefit by their service to our County. It is available for up to 20 hours per week of personalized care and completely paid for by the pension.Health costs covered by the pension are generally those not covered by Medicare. Maybe there is a need for some help around the house, with medicine reminders, meals or transportation to doctor appointments. The Aid and Attendance Pension provides from $1000 to $2000 per month to pay for these services. The pension is used for tasks that help a qualifying Veteran and their spouse live healthier or safer in their own residence.Aid and Attendance is a reimbursement pension. In-home care must be ongoing before the Veterans Administration pays the monthly benefit. Fortunately, there is a program that may pay for the care before the pensions disbursements begin and without recourse as long as the paperwork was conscientiously and accurately submitted. Therefore, Veterans and their spouses can have no out-of-pocket expenses for care before AND after the VAs eligibility determination. They never receive nor pay a bill for their care.The process to become qualified is laborious with a needs assessment, physicians evaluation and many forms. However, by working with an accredited Veterans Administrations agency, free guidance is provided to correctly present the application.To be eligible for the standard pension a Veteran must be at least 65 years of age, served as active military for 90 days during an approved time of war and received an honorable discharged. The spouse will need to provide a marriage certificate. Discharge certificates (DD-214 after 1950) can be restored if they have become lost. Help with the eligibility process is at absolutely no cost or obligation. Most Veterans and their spouses needing care will qualify.The important things for Veterans and their spouses to remember is that assistance is available to get the necessary forms completed, to help present their eligibility accurately, to pay for care before and after the pension begins and to help them live a higher quality of life. All these happen without any out-of-pocket expenses because of this unique program. More free information is available.Thousands of Veterans and their spouses have already utilized these services to start this pension paying for care. Those not receiving this benefit ought to consider applying for the Aid and Attendance Pension. Theyve earned it!Editors Note: This article was submitted by Dr. Mark O. Bowman. Dr. Bowman is the owner of Home Care Assistance of Utah and their office can be reached at 801.733.6100, by email at mbowman@homecareassistance.com

Its hard to imagine that there is a pension benefit available to veterans that is largely unknown to the veteran population. Less than five percent of our veterans know about it, and less than two percent ever get it. Its one of the most under-utilized federal pensions, and is available to many veterans. Congress has budgeted as much as $22 Billion USD for the program and, only about $330 Million USD of that amount is used. Thats amazing, when you consider that the maximum benefit to a married couple is more than $2000 a month, TAX FREE!So, who qualifies? The Aid and Attendance Pension benefit is available to both single and married Veterans and/or their surviving spouses. If an honorably-discharged veteran served more than 90 consecutive days of active duty, and if just one of those days was during a declared war, that veteran meets the service requirement for this vastly under-utilized program. Combat is not required. Veterans should be aware that the service requirement is different for those who have served more recently in the post-Vietnam period. In those instances, the veteran needs to have served 2 years of active duty or the entire time required, if called up from reserve duty.There IS a medical requirement, too. The veteran, to qualify, must be over the age of 65 (or, if younger than 65, must be totally and permanently disabled. Additionally, the veteran must need assistance with at least two of the activities of daily livingwalking, eating, toileting, bathing and dressing. Some other physical challenges, like poor vision, may meet the medical threshold, if they are severe enough.The Aid and Attendance pension is designed to ensure that veterans have a certain amount of disposable income after an adjustment of unreimbursed medical expenses. If the veterans unreimbursed medical expenses equal 1.05 times his or her income, and the hosehold net worth is $80,000 or less, they qualify for the entire amount.Suprisingly, many veterans find that they qualify when they are considering moving into assisted living. Thats because the VA regards any fees paid to an assisted living community as unreimbursed medical expenses. That fee is often the largest unreimbursed medical expense and often offsets a retired veterans entire income. Medicare premiums, co-pays and other expenses are also allowed deductions or adjustments to the household income.If you wonder about your own qualifications for this terrific benefit, you should consult with a qualified elder attorney. If you qualify, the application process can be daunting and frustrating. Its wise to enlist the help of a trained professional who understands the rules and processes.Editors Note: This article was submitted by Clark Wilcox, Elder Law Attorney with Whatley Wilcox PLLC.

As the time comes to enjoy your retirement or assisted living community, one of the most common dilemmas for you or your kids is what to do with your house. Everything around you is changing; the last thing you should worry about is selling your house. The market may not even allow the sale of your home. The market has been declining over the last several years and days on the market can be long. You may not even have any equity in it and have to bring money to the table just to get it closed. Maybe the house is your only investment and you want to keep it. At some point in time, the market will surely rebound, but how long will that be? One of the best options may be to rent your home. If not for you, maybe for your kids.Rental property vacancy rates are close to record lows!The Denver and surrounding areas are experiencing record low vacancy levels and the housing rental market is as strong as it has been in years. In many cases, you can rent your home for more than your mortgage and actually make a little money. How nice would it feel to not have to sell your home and actually make money on it.Relieve the stress and rent your home!With all that is going on in your life, the last thing you want to do is be a landlord. This is why you hire a qualified property management company. Many people know this market is booming right now so everyone is getting into the business. Be careful and do your due diligence. You should look for an established company and someone that has rental experience. It doesn't hurt if they own some of their own rental properties. Make sure they are insured, do credit and background checks on all potential tenants, and have the ability to take care of all maintenance issues. They should be partnered with an attorney in case of evictions or keeping up with new laws. Ask how they handle the maintenance issues. Some companies up charge you for the services that are rendered. Make sure the property manager has to get your permission to do repairs over a certain dollar amount. Finally, make sure you have an agreement in writing. A good property manager can help you make the most out of your rental property. In this market, it may be good idea to rent your property, but make sure you hire the right property management company.Renting your house is a great solution for the short and long term.Editors Note: This article was submitted by Lance Becker and Tim Emery of Investment Strategies Property Management Services. They may be reached at 303-770-2409 or by email at lbecker@stixandstones.net . Visit their website at www.stixandstones.net

If given directions and a plan that resulted in a high level of success what outcome might you experience? Consumers rely on physicians and pharmaceutical companies to improve health. Humans want and demand choice in all aspects of life yet plea to the effects of outside conditions when health fails. The act of caregiving arises from a need for care based on a foundation of poor or declining health of a loved one, yet research proves caregivers health fails as the result of the act of caregiving. If individuals acknowledged that actions today result in care needs of the future how might this affect the aspect of willpower versus wishful thinking in the area of health?Modern medicine treats and minimizes symptoms not the root cause of disease. Does illness have the opportunity to provide insight into life regarding aspects that require change? Is it possible to heal illness by recognizing and changing aspects in life that pose health risks? Perspectives posed by German physician Rudiger Dahlke, holistic experts Andrew Weil and Deepak Chopra and energy healers Barbara Brennan and Donna Eden teach that the body can heal itself.The idea of self -healing poses the conflict between will and desire. If permanently giving up sugar, white flour, processed and fried foods, alcohol, vinegar and tomatoes would result in remission of cancer and eventual cure, how many would follow this diet for a lifetime? If meditating twenty minutes twice a day resulted in lowered blood pressure, improved sleep and less stress how many would follow this daily regimen? Self-healing results from the actions of individuals willing to examine aspects of life and to make difficult changes.When a health diagnosis interrupts your life will you give into relying and hoping that modern medicine will provide a cure? Will you take matters into your own hands and make necessary changes placing willpower ahead of desire rather than hoping for an easy fix? The act of caregiving poses similar questions? Will you allow a less than ideal caregiving situation to continue? Will you take action to find balance to ensure that caregiving does not negatively affect your health and wellbeing?Editors Note: This article was submitted by Pamela D. Wilson, CSA, MS, BS/BA, CG, owner of The Care Navigator. Pamela may be reached at 303-205-7877 or by email at pamela@thecarenavigator.com.

A group of local dentists have organized themselves to offer seniors an affordable alternative to dental insurance.Traditional dental insurance is one method for individuals to pay for dental care. However, seniors are at a disadvantage when losing access to dental insurance that an employer may have previously provided. Data now shows that only 50% of the population has dental insurance. Patients feel that dental insurance is limited and costly and are looking for alternatives. The other 50% of the population feel on their own when it comes to paying for dental services and simply dont seek the dental care they need to maintain their dental and overall health.In response, independent dentists in Idaho have organized themselves to offer a non-insurance alternative. Its called, The Dental Benefit Program. Here is how it works and specifically, why it works.Most dentists become network providers and accept discounted contractual fees to be included on a dental insurance plan. In this fashion, they receive new patients steered to their practices. In like fashion, a group of local dentists are willing to accept similar discounted fees to reach the many patients who do not have access to dental insurance. The Dental Benefit Program has been available to employer groups and individuals. You only pay for the dental services you receive at the published, discounted rates. There are no premiums to pay, no annual maximums, no waiting periods, no deductibles, no age limits, and no claims to process! Every type of dental procedure is included for general and specialty dentistry.Simply go to www.DentalBenefitProgram.com and choose GET STARTED - NO COST. Enroll using the Group ID# SBB01. It takes minutes and its free.

Special needs trusts (also known as supplemental needs trusts) allow a disabled beneficiary to receive gifts, lawsuit settlements, or other funds without jeopardizing the disabled beneficiarys eligibility for certain government programs. These trusts are drafted so that the funds will not be considered to belong to the beneficiary in determining the beneficiarys eligibility for public benefits.Special needs trusts are designed not to provide basic support, but instead to pay for comforts and luxuries that could not be paid for by public assistance funds. These trusts typically pay for things like education, recreation, counseling, and medical attention beyond the simple necessities of life. Special needs can include medical and dental expenses, annual independent check-ups, necessary or desirable equipment (such as specially equipped vans), training and education, insurance, transportation, and essential dietary needs. If the trust is sufficiently funded, the disabled person can also receive electronic equipment and appliances, computers, vacations, movies, payments for a companion, and other self-esteem and quality-of-life enhancing expenses.Special needs trusts may be stand-alone documents or may be incorporated into a Last Will and Testament. Either way, these trusts may be a valuable vehicle for making transfers for the benefit of a disabled person.Donald D. Vanarelli, Esq., with offices in Westfield NJ, is a Certified Elder Law Attorney (by NAELA, accredited by the ABA), an Accredited Professional Mediator and an Accredited VA Attorney. Mr. Vanarelli, was selected as a Superlawyer in 2007, 2008 and 2009 and is a founding member of the New Jersey Elder Mediation Center. For more information, contact the Law Office of Donald D. Vanarelli, 908-232-7400 or visit his web site at www.dvanarelli.com.

Does someone you care about display any warning signs of mistreatment? Physical AbuseInadequately explained fractures, bruises, welts, cuts, sores & burnsUntreated pressure bed soresNeglectLack of basic hygieneLack of adequate foodLack of medical aids (glasses, walker, teeth, hearing aid, medications)Lack of clean appropriate clothingDemented person left unsupervisedBed bound person left without careHome cluttered, filthy, in disrepair, or having fire & safety hazardsHome without adequate facilities (stove, refrigerator, heat, cooling, working plumbing, and electricity)HoardingFinancial AbuseLack of amenities victim could affordElder voluntarily giving inappropriate financial reimbursement for needed care and companionshipCaregiver has control of elders money but is failing to provide for elders needsCaretaker living off elderElder has signed property transfers (Power of Attorney, new will, etc.) when unable to comprehend the transactionPsychological AbuseCaregiver isolates elder (doesn't let anyone into the home or speak to the elder)Caregiver is aggressive, controlling, addicted, or uncaringReporting Suspected Elder AbuseIn Salt Lake County Call: 801-264-7669. Statewide Call: 1-800-371-7897. In case of emergency, call your local police station or 911.For more information of preventing Elder Abuse and Neglect in Utah, please call the Utah Elder Abuse Prevention Coalition at (801) 860-3801.

If you are a senior moving into asenior residential living community, or if your family has a senior loved one who is planning such a move, there's a lot to take care of beforehand. One of the major things to work on is finding storage for furniture and other personal items that cannot stay in the home, perhaps due to its impending sale. Many senior living facilities have limited space for residents' personal items, or they might havelimits imposed by state laws, which means that many treasured possessions must be either given away, thrown out or put into storage. Even if a facility has virtually unlimited space for personal things, it's still a good idea to store some of the bulkier and heavier items in a safe place until you're sure the new community will be a permanent home. By taking this route, you'll at least save the trouble of having to move everything twice if a change of facilities is required.Its important to find a good senior storage facility for your items. Seniors have somewhat different storage needs than people in other age categories, and there are several criteria a storage site should meet to be a good match for senior customers. Knowing how to spot a good senior storage facility when you find it saves time, money and effort. Starting early, asking the right questions and finding the right storage facility for yourself or a senior loved one helps reduce the strain of a move for those already struggling with a difficult transition period.Whats Special About Seniors Storage Needs?Seniors often have unique needs when it comes to looking for storage that younger adults may not have to think about. Where many people look for storage units to hold surplus items that are taking up space in their homes, seniors are frequently looking to store most or all of the items in their homes. The transition into assisted living facilities or other senior living arrangements often results in the need for a place to store a houseful of furniture and a lifetimes worth of keepsakes. Even when packed as efficiently as possible, this vast quantity of belongings can take up a lot of floor space and require a larger-than-usual storage unit.Moving into a new home, even if its justdownsizing into a smaller house or apartment, can be an expensive feat to accomplish for seniors living on a fixed income of Social Security and a pension. The cost is somewhat lessened if the storage is temporary, which it often is for seniors who intend to recover their things after they settle into a new place. Yet those savings are sometimes offset by the seniors need to hire professional movers who can handle the heavy items for them. This dynamic of circumstances causes seniors to need more space than younger adults, though often for less time.Things to Look for in Senior Storage ArrangementsMeeting seniors needs for storage requires some unique concessions on the part of the storage facility. Extra space for large amounts of furniture, for example, helps keep all of a seniors household items together. Flexible pricing, or even a veterans discount, can be beneficial for many seniors and families trying to budget a move.Flexibility is also helpful a few months after signing the initial contract when the senior is settled in and has the space to move some items out of storage and into their new home. It may be that a smaller storage unit is more appropriate after the couch, bed, dresser and several boxes of keepsakes have been transferred to the senior living community. Larger storage sites that have many different-sized units available make it quick work to shift the remaining items to a smaller and less expensive unit. This option is also much easier when rent on the unit is month-to-month from the start, instead of a fixed-term lease that requires you to rent a specific unit for a year or more.Some storage facilities offer valet service to help move items into or out of a storage unit. Some even offer van or truck delivery for a nominal charge. Valet service is especially attractive for many seniors, even those who have family members who live close enough to help with such a move.One studyfound that seniors in America are up to five times more afraid of becoming a burden to their loved ones than of dying. A storage facility with a convenient and affordable valet service provides seniors with the option of handling item relocations by themselves. This helps them take more control of their affairs and lessens the embarrassment that occurs when they feel theyre imposing on loved ones.Warning Signs to Watch Out ForIts always a good idea to start your search for acceptable senior storage as early as you can; theres a lot to research before the move. As you investigate storage facilities, you might notice characteristics that lead you to believe the site is not a good match for you or your senior loved one. Dont be afraid to go with your gut impressions. Common warning signs include:Rigid pricing or unit policies that impose a one-size-fits-all approach to senior storageLong-term lease requirements that force seniors to rent more space than theyre likely to need in the near futureInadequate security at the site, given the cash value of expensive items and heirlooms that are being storedRestricted access or bad site layouts, which can make it difficult for movers to get close to the unit when moving bulky items such as couchesPoorly sealed units that are not ventilated or climate-managed, which can expose irreplaceable items to moisture, mold and other hazardsPuddles of water inside public areas of the building, which indicate that leaks might be present within the units themselvesHow to Shop Around for Great Senior Storage FacilitiesThe importance of finding a great storage solution for a senior cant be overstated. It takes time and research that may include physically visiting the sites youre considering, to inspect them in person. Start your search online by looking up storage facilities located within a convenient distance of either the senior facility youve settled on or the home of a family member who can help with the move. Glance over the sites features and amenities and make a ranked list of the facilities you are considering, based on factors that matter to you, such as price, location and security.Once you have a list of at least three to six potential sites, call and make an appointment to visit each of them. If you have the time, consider showing up unannounced a couple of days before your scheduled appointments to observe how the places normally operate on a daily basis.Site managers often view these inspections as selling opportunities, so its a good idea to explain upfront that you are still investigating multiple locations. Ask to be shown the larger units, which you may need at first, and then check out the smaller options, which may wind up as your long-term choice after the final move. Look for evidence of leaks and gaps in the structure of the units, as well as dents or scrapes on the doors that could indicate frequent break-in attempts or other trouble. Try to gauge how much room a truck would require when backing up to the units youre looking at and whether any obstacles could cause maneuvering difficulties. Finally, ask about price structures, flexibility in changing units, lease conditions and whether the facility offers discounts to senior citizens, veterans or their surviving spouses.Final Questions to Ask When Youre Researching Senior Storage OptionsApart from inquiring about pricing discounts, consider asking the site manager some of these questions to get a fuller idea of how your storage choice is likely to work out:Does the site offer extra-secure storage options for valuable items such as jewelry collections, art or military medals? What about insurance on these items?Does this facility report unusual events, such as fires, leaks or break-in attempts, to residents in a timely manner? How will you be informed of such events? Are police reports or other formal documentation of these events available for customers to see?If a senior client falls behind in their payments, how long is the grace period before the facility seizes their stored items?Are on-site staff available to assist seniors with limited mobility? Will they help carry items out? Are there fees for this service?Does this facility limit the frequency of visits?Has this facility ever had an issue with bedbugs, toxic mold or other hazardous materials that could damage a seniors cloth furniture, clothing or other personal items?Can vehicles be stored at the location? Is there a parking space right next to the rented unit or are there units large enough to accommodate vehiclesandpersonal belongings? Is there a discount available for this?Can people other than the listed renter, such as a seniors next of kin or caregiver, collect items or access the site without the senior being present? How are those permissions granted and documented?

To learn more aboutHome Care Assistance of Utah,CLICK HERE.How to Know When Its TimeSometimes an elders need for help is sudden and obvious. More often, though, it becomes apparent gradually, experts say. So how will you know? Watch for changes in your loved ones behavior, such as ignoring favorite hobbies, missing dates with friends, or forgetting to pay bills. Not every change means danger, but when a shift happens, its important to understand why, says Claudia Fine, an executive at SeniorBridge, a geriatric-care management company. So snoop, Fine advises. Tag along to your loved ones doctors appointments and ask questions.Once you understand the persons situation, you can help develop plans, says Peter Notarstefano, director of home- and community-based services at LeadingAge, an association for aging-services organizations. Although you may not see yourself as a caregiver, thats the term for anyone who looks after a person who needs assistance with daily tasks. AARPs Caregiving Resource Center can help.Staying at HomeKeeping a loved one in his or her house, or yours, can be challenging if your loved one needs daily help with some tasks. Thankfully, there are services to make it easier.Adult day facilities offer meals, activities, companionship and some medical care. One popular program for frail people is the Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE). Its free for those who qualify for Medicaid; others pay about $3,000 a month.Service programs such as Senior Corps send volunteers age 55 or older to visit elderly individuals at home and provide companionship.Occupational therapists can evaluate a home and its resident and recommend grab bars and other changes to improve safety. They also help clients develop strength and skills, such as balance, so they can manage more of their daily activities. Studies show that visits from an OT help older people stay in their homes longer.If you and your family member want to live near each other but not in the same house, you can now rent a fully equipped, backyard mini-apartment that attaches to your homes utilities. Some of these so-called assisted living structures come with monitoring systems.Assistive-technology companies have products that can ensure your relative is safe. SimplyHome offers monitoring equipment such as motion sensors and GPS watches, and QuietCare (careinnovations.com) has a motion-sensor system that can learn a persons daily patterns and send alerts when there is a significant change.In some areas nonprofit support networks called Villages help older residents stay in their homes. Volunteers perform some everyday tasks, and the Villages also arrange for discounted services, from plumbing to nursing care. Annual membership fees are usually $300 to $500. See whether theres a Village near you.How to Find Care1. Your local Area Agency on Aging (AAA) has info on living options near you. Find your AAA.2. Genworth has teamed with AARP to offer a free online caregiver search as well as affordable access to care coordination services.3. SNAPforseniors, a for-profit health care network, lists residential facilities.4. The National Association for Home Care & Hospice lists home-care agencies in your area.5. Medicares website ranks local nursing homes and home-health agencies.6. LeadingAge, a network of aging-services agencies, has a housing-locator service on its website.7. Geriatric-care managers can help with all aspects of caring for older adults. For more information visit caremanager.orgGetting Your Loved One on BoardEase into it: If possible, provide help bit by bit, in spoonfuls and not buckets, recommends Susan Johnson, former owner of Care Management Associates. For example, start by offering to hire someone for a task your relative doesnt like, such as cleaning house.Set a time line: Try presenting care, in whatever form, as something to try out for a little while.Make your relative the boss: Describe care providers as assistants to show that your loved one is still in charge.Tweak your language: Frame help in the way that will most appeal to your relative. Maybe its a deserved luxury; maybe its something recommended by a trusted doctor or friend.Dont command: Include your loved one in any decisions, and avoid telling her what she needs to do; this usually triggers resistance, warns Linda Fodrini-Johnson, executive director of Eldercare Services.Seek answers: If your relative is reluctant to accept care, try to figure out why, says Jackie Lapidus, executive director of Care Management Associates. Your relative may be assuming one scenario while youre imagining another.Turn the tables: Remind your loved one that by accepting help, he is easing your fears and making your life less stressful.Checking for QualityPeople fare better when they live near whats dear to them friends, family, congregation. But once you find a facility in the right spot, make sure its a good one.To begin evaluating a residential facility, schedule a tour. Quiz the manager on how the facility addresses a residents specific and changing needs. Then make unscheduled visits. Ask residents what they enjoy about the community and what goes on during the day. Will your relative fit in?Most states license residential facilities. To discover your states licensing requirements, start with the department of health.If its home health care youre seeking, look for an agency that hires its own employees, rather than using independent contractors, says Paul Hogan, chairman of Home Instead Senior Care and coauthor of Stages of Senior Care: Your Step-by-Step Guide to Making the Best Decisions. Make sure a supervisor occasionally visits your relatives home to see how everything is going, says Hogan. And dont expect a perfect match the first time. If you have concerns, tell the care provider and possibly the management, too. When hiring in-home care, patience and perseverance pay.For both residential facilities and home health care, ask about accreditation, a credential awarded by one of several private agencies.Also consider these two websites, both of which rank nursing homes based on Medicare inspection data: Caregiverlist Inc. and the Medicare and Medicaid Nursing Home Compare guide.What it Costs (and Who Can Help)The going rates for assisted living vary from state to state. For information on the rates in your state, visit longtermcare.gov. Nationwide, the average annual cost of a private room at a skilled nursing facility is $90,155. At an assisted living facility (ALF), its $39,528. The average hourly rate for home health aides is $22. Thats a lot of money, but some programs will help pay it.1. Medicare pays for short-term care after an injury or surgery. It does not cover long-term care.2. Medicaid helps people with a low income and few assets pay for nursing facilities and some assisted living and in-home care.3. Some states offer financial assistance for low-income residents to live in an ALF. Ask your Area Agency on Aging.4. The Department of Veterans Affairs offers certain veterans and their spouses long-term-care benefits.5. A reverse mortgage might provide income to pay for care.6. The National Council on Aging helps you find government aid.

Sometimes I am asked what planning documents are most important, and people are often surprised when I first mention the need for powers of attorney.A Power of Attorney (POA) is a legal document that appoints a person to act as your agent in your absence or when you are unable to act for yourself. Depending upon how the document is drafted your agent can be authorized to make financial and health care decisions for you.Married couples frequently believe their spouse will be able to handle everything on their behalf should a need arise. This is simply not the case. For example, if a married couple owns property together, and one of them is mentally or physically incapacitated, without a proper POA the other spouse would need to be appointed as a guardian for the incapacitated spouse in order to sell the property. This would likewise apply to investment and retirement accounts and other types of property.Another area where a lack of a Power of Attorney can create problems is in healthcare decision making. Do not make the mistake of believing you have the right to make health decisions for your parent or spouse if they are unable to do so. A Durable Power of Attorney should be in place to deal with these situations or you could end up in court seeking a guardianship order so you can take care of a loved one.Court proceedings can be quite costly in that they involve court filing fees, attorney fees, physicians fees, and other costs. These can be avoided with some simple planning. When my wifes mother suffered a stroke we were able to administer her affairs because we had planned in advance. We never had to go to court, and my wife took care of all her mothers financial and medical needs without ever having to obtain court permission.Moreover, do not be fooled by a one size fits all power of attorney. POAs need to be drafted with your specific needs in mind, so do not trust your needs to something that can be pulled off the web. It could be a very costly mistake.Editors Note: This article was submitted by William H. Moller. Bill is an attorney with The Moller Law Group, LLC and may be reached at 719-687-2328 or by email at whmoller@mollerlawgroup.com.

Summer can be a time of rest and relaxation, involving family picnics, time at the beach or working in the yard and gardens. As the days get hotter, the risk of dehydration increases and can be a serious problem for anyone, but older adults are more at risk for dehydration, due to a decrease in body water content. Medical conditions and medications can also affect a seniors water retention, and those with dementia may forget to drink and have difficulty swallowing.Its important to be aware of the symptoms of dehydration and know how to prevent it so you or a senior family member can remain safe in the hot summer months.Some signs of severe dehydration include little or no urination, dark or amber-colored urine, dry skin, low blood pressure, weak pulse, or rapid breathing and heartbeat. In order to prevent these from occurring, make sure you are getting a minimum intake of eight 8-ounce glasses of fluid throughout the day.Balance your fluid intake with output. If you are sweating more, or urinating more frequently, you should be increasing your fluid intake. Water isnt the only option for drinking, either! If a senior refuses to drink water, consider some flavor enhancers like a juice mixer or fruit infuser. Other options can include popsicles or smoothies. Raw fruits and vegetables can also be extremely hydrating, as well as nutritious. Some of these include cucumbers, watermelon, grapes, celery, and tomatoes.If you are concerned with dehydration, talk to your doctor for advice on staying hydrated and maintaining optimal health throughout your senior years.There may come a time where managing a healthy lifestyle becomes overwhelming and you find yourself or a senior family member making poor diet choices, becoming less physically active, and interacting less with other people. It may be time to start researching senior living options, which can help maintain a consistent diet and activity schedule. Many senior living communities have 24-hour staffing to ensure residents are safe and living an ideal lifestyle.Check your local senior community to see what their senior living options are and the services provided and find out how you can live life to the fullest in your senior years.Editors Note: This article was submitted by Russ Stack. Russ Stack is the Executive Director at Senior Commons at Powder Mill Independent Living, Personal Care and Memory Care.

According to Newsweek magazine, The average American spends over 55 minutes looking for things we cannot find. What would you do with an extra hour every day? There are numerous ways to improve your life through organizing your home.Increased Productivity By eliminating the time you spend on worrying and trying to find things, you spend more time on the things that are really important.Saved Money - No more losing money on buying duplicate items, impulse buying, unnecessary trips to the store and late fees from forgotten or lost bills. In fact, many people actually find uncashed checks, gift cards or money they forgot they had!Improved Health A clutter-free space frees up emotional and physical burdens that have been carried for way too long. Anxiety goes away when things are easy to find and you may even find yourself sleeping more restfully.Safer, More Spacious Environment Relocating items that block walkways and put unnecessary strain on your body eliminates safety hazards and opens up your living areas. It is surprising how much more space you actually have when your belongings are organized with well labeled, proper containers.Happier Relationships - This is a big one!Organization offers a stress-free way to stay on top of all your commitments to the people in your life. Family members especially feel a great relief knowing your space is de-cluttered, well organized and safe. You will feel proud to invite people over!Peace and Flow With the feeling of overwhelm gone, imagine actually enjoying being in your home environment. Having the right home for everything will help you feel much more relaxed and in control of your life.The small investment of time and money upfront it takes to get organized will last you for years to come. Doesnt your life deserve to be as healthy, safe, productive and stress-free as possible? Dont waste another day in chaos. The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. Lao TzuEditors note: The Author, Cheryl Chandler, is a Professional Organizer experienced in handling the needs of Seniors. Please call her at (801) 759-1195 for a FREE 15 minute Phone Consultation.

To learn more aboutThe Wellington - MBK Senior Living, CLICK HERE.Irvine, Calif. (April 30, 2019) The Wellington has been named Utahs Best of State winner in both the assisted living and independent living categories. This marks the ninth win in eight years for the Salt Lake City senior living community that has long been known for providing exceptional care.The Best in State Award recognizes outstanding individuals, organizations, and businesses in Utah who demonstrate achievement and excellence in their field of endeavor, producing superior results and outcomes. In the senior living industry those outcomes include providing individualized care, offering exceptional services, amenities and an exceptional home-like atmosphere. Based on recent 5-star reviews from residents and family, The Wellington is not only achieving those results but exceeding customer expectations along the way.The Wellington far surpassed my expectations. The receptionist greeted us warmly as we entered the establishment, and I noted immediately how clean and pristine everything was. As I watched each of the staff members, they congenially interacted with every resident. We opted to stay for lunch and eat with the residents. The meal was delicious and it felt as if I were dining in a 5-star restaurant. The decor and ambiance at The Wellington felt like home.The Wellington is one of the finest assisted living facilities I have ever seen! You can tell from the second you walk in that everyone there truly cares about the residents and takes a lot of pride in what they do. I have friends whose parents live here and they can't speak highly enough about the staff, facilities, and everything else involved. 5 stars all the way!Having served Salt Lake families for nearly two decades, The Wellington has a legacy of senior living excellence and a reputation for providing exceptional care and an engaging lifestyle to area seniors, said The Wellingtons Executive Director Scott Ambrose. We are honored to be recognized as the best independent living and assisted living community in the state of Utah.The Wellington is nestled in the heart of Salt Lake City with views of the Wasatch Mountains and close to local freeways, shops and state of the art medical services. Backed by the strength and experience of MBK Senior Living, The Wellington nurtures a culture of genuine care. The Wellingtons service-enriched lifestyle is supported through numerous amenities and MBK signature dining and activities programming. To learn more about The Wellington or to schedule a personal tour, call 385-257-2929 or visit theirwebsite.

Helen Keller, both a deaf and blind lady, upon being asked whether she considers vision or hearing more important, replied:The problems of deafness are deeper and more complex, if not more important, than those of blindness. Deafness is a much worse misfortune. For it means the loss of the most vital stimulus--the sound of the voice that brings language, sets thoughts astir and keeps us in the intellectual company of man.What Helen knew, and what popular thought has often overlooked, is that the human sense of hearing represents the primary cognitive window into life itself. Blindness cuts us off from things; deafness cuts us off from people to be cut off from hearing [people] is to be isolated indeed.Indeed, to one who hears normally, it may seem a strange concept that one can stand amidst a room full of fellow beings engaged in excited conversation, bonding and enjoying each other's company and yet feel awkward and terribly alone.In cases of rapid decline, sufferers sense a profound loss not unlike losing a close loved one. Such losses can evoke the same emotions of mourning denial, despair, frustration, and anger that transpire when they actually lose a loved one, but often without recognizing why they feel that way. Reports of sudden hearing loss repeatedly present an almost crippling form of emotional and psycho-social debilitation.Gradual losses, which comprise perhaps 95% of cases, come over, say, 20-30 years, and bring feelings of depression, anxiety, hypertension, and cardiovascular & endocrine stress.Coming back to the wisdom and insight of Helen Keller, in her advancing years she concluded in a letter to a friend that "after a lifetime in silence and darkness, to be deaf is a greater affliction than to be blind...Hearing is the soul of knowledge and information of a high order. To be cut off from hearing is to be isolated indeed."Editor's note: This article was submitted by Dr. Max Chartrand of DigiCare Hearing Research & Rehabilitation. He can be reached at: www.digicarenet.com, 719-676-3277.

Licensed Assisted Living homes with 6 beds or less#listing_mgr{7 basic_search}#

For more information on the author, Cypress Springs, CLICK HERE!The value that a pet can have to anyone, let alone a senior are endless. They bring both love and companionship to their owners, two things that adults very much need as they age. All of our communities are pet friendly making a Hawthorn community a great fit for any animal lover. Here are 9 health benefits a pet can bring for the senior in life.

We visited with Jeff Bellomo of Bellomo & Associates and explored what happens when a Loved One needs to go into the Nursing Home. How do you not loose everything? How do we plan for best outcomes? Jeff Bellomo, Bellomo & Associates, 717-845-5390, www.bellomoassociates.com. More questions? Ask Chris Gartman, Publisher, Seniors Blue Book of South Central PA - pa-info@seniorsbluebook.com #Money #Savings #NursingHomes #Safety #Finances #ElderLaw #BellomoAssociates #SeniorsBlueBook

Rosemary Thomas proudly endorses physical fitness and the saying, If you dont move it, you will lose it. After two hip replacements and fluctuating weight, she knew she needed to step up her fitness routine to regain mobility. Joining SilverSneakers provided her with the consistency she desired and the confidence she needed to begin fine-tuning her body. In addition to attending SilverSneakers classes regularly, she loves cardio and dancing. Thomas encourages others to get active and says, Dont meet me at the gym; beat me getting to the gym. In 2016, Thomas was selected as one of 10 finalists for the SilverSneakers Richard L. Swanson Inspiration Award due to her inspiring story of improving her health and happiness, and being a dedicated fitness champion.With SilverSneakers, older adults can get active and feel great, at their convenience and at no additional cost. More than 14.5 million people are eligible for the SilverSneakers benefit through more than 60 health plans that include the nations leading Medicare Advantage health plans, Medicare Supplement carriers and group retiree plans. As Thomas story shows, fitness is personal. Each individual should exercise where, when and how they want. That's why SilverSneakers has built a national network of more than 13,000 participating locations and fitness centers use the pool at one location in the morning, jog on a treadmill at another in the afternoon And take a class at another gym in the evening. In addition, the program includes SilverSneakers FLEX, with more than 70 unique types of classes in convenient neighborhood locations, such as churches, recreation centers and older-adult living communities. Celebrating more than 25 years, SilverSneakers is the nations leading community fitness program designed specifically for older Americans. No other program has such a rich history and experience in older adult fitness. What began in 1992 as a first-of-its-kind class for older adults, has now grown and evolved to accommodate all fitness levels, from Baby Boomers and beyond. This article was submitted by Tivity Health. For more information about SilverSneakers or to check elegibility, visit www.silversneakers.com or call 1-877-402-6753. In addition, our Spanish customer service team is available at 1-888-617-6392.

To learn more aboutSalt Lake Behavioral Health,CLICK HERE.A mood is an emotion that temporarily colors all aspects of your life. Moods are as different as individuals and they can be a happy, sad or angry. Mood instability is when there is no control over moods resulting in difficulty managing behaviors. For example, a small thing at work or home causes intense feelings of anger resulting in aggressiveness. It can also be a comment that causes a tearful outburst.Mood instability can cause many problems in relationships, work and school by the mood lasting longer than desired, uncontrollable mood outbursts or impulsive behaviors. Not being able to manage or control mood can result in feelings of hopelessness, shame or guilt. The good news is that with treatment, recovery is possible.

Being in the hospital in an Observation Status comes as a rude awakening to many seniors. Being placed in a room has always meant you were being admitted. Right? Nope, at best that would be a big maybe.In 2013 it was called the two-midnight rule to help clarify defining observation status, but that's changed. An unintended consequence of this rule and to avoid denial of payments by Medicare for hospital admissions challenged by Medicare auditors, hospitals have increased the use of observation visits. The ramification of this change has proven to be costly to many patients who unwittingly thought that they were admitted as inpatients.According to a New York Times article New Medicare Law to Notify Patients of Loophole in Nursing Home Coverage Hospitals have found themselves in a squeeze. They increased their use of observation status in response to scrutiny of their billing practices by Medicare auditors private companies hired by the government to review claims. In many cases, these companies challenged decisions by doctors to admit patients to a hospital, saying the services should have been provided on an outpatient basis. The auditors then tried to recover what they described as improper payments [from the hospitals].Doctors and hospitals said the auditors were like bounty hunters because they could keep a percentage of the funds they recovered. Unfortunately, this shifts the cost to the patient.While observation patients may share in the use of services with admitted patients their status may deny them reimbursement for some of those costs. More importantly, because Medicare requires any patient moving into a skilled nursing facility (SNF) to have been inpatient in an acute care hospital for a minimum of 3 days. Therefore, without the required 3 days as an inpatient, any costs of the skilled care are borne by the patientAs reported by law firm Lamson and Cutner, P.C. in an article titled Hospital Inpatient vs. Outpatient Observation Status Why Its Important A sensible question to ask is: Why are hospitals admitting some patients under observation status rather than as inpatients? The answer may be found at least partly in the financial penalties Medicare imposes on hospitals if more than a certain percentage of patients are readmitted within 30 days. In a 2016 article entitled The Hidden Financial Incentives Behind Your Shorter Hospital Stay, the New York Times stated that Under Medicares Hospital Readmissions Reduction Program, hospitals now lose up to 3 percent of their total Medicare payments for high rates of patients readmitted within 30 days of discharge. [There is] evidence that hospitals are gaming the metric. For instance, patients who are placed under observation status are not counted in the readmissions metric even though they may receive the same care as patients formally admitted to the hospital.Likewise, patients treated in the emergency room and not admitted to the hospital do not affect the readmissions metric either.While most Decisions by Medicare can be appealed by patients the observation classification cannot. However, on July 31st, 2017 the U.S. District Court in Connecticut ruled in favor of a class action lawsuit in Alexander v Price. The trial, expected to start in 2018, if successful will allow patients to appeal their hospitalization status dating back to determinations starting on January 1, 2009.In the meantime, patients who are hospitalized for more than 24 hours must be notified in writing within 36 hours of their status as either inpatient or observation. This law became effective in August 2016. Once notified of their status, presumably the patient may ask the physician to change an observation to inpatient.As a footnote, one very interesting study reported by Todays Hospitalist, Study Results Push Back on Readmission Penalties a new analysis of more than 4,450 acute-care facilities, which found that hospitals with the highest hospital-wide readmission rates are more likely to have the lowest mortality rates for patients with three common conditions. The fact that mortality and readmission were, in some instances, inversely related, should raise some eyebrows about how well readmissions function as a quality metric, says Daniel J. Brotman, MD, director of the hospitalist program at Baltimores Johns Hopkins Hospital. As older patients typically have more complex conditions it seems logical that added care from a readmission would permit their doctor to treat further.This article was submitted by Dennis Patouhas, owner Comfort Keepers of Lower Fairfield County, one of the oldest agencies in the area with over16 years of experience helping hundreds of families with elder care for their loved ones. Dennis can be reached at 203.629-5029.

For many of us, supporting our favorite charities is an important way of helping others and advancing causes that we believe in. Did you know that there are also many ways you can personally bene?t from such acts of generosity?Most important, of course, is the satisfaction you get when helping a charity that is dear to your heart. But your gifts, when planned smartly, can also help you even financially. Here are just three examples: Gifts of Appreciated Stock or Mutual Funds Gifts of appreciated securities, when held longer than one year, allow you to make a gift at a fraction of its cost. Lets say you bought XYZ stock a few years ago at $25 a share and its now worth $50 a share. If you transfer those shares directly to your favorite charity, your gift is valued at its current value rather than what you paid for it. And, as long as you transfer the gift directly to charity, you avoid paying tax on the capital gain. Charitable Gift Annuities A charitable gift annuity helps a charity to achieve its future goals while providing you (and/or someone you love) with an income stream for life. The rate of payment is based on your age and never changes. (The older you are, the higher the payout rate). Payments are partially tax-free for a period of years, and a charitable income tax deduction is also available if you itemize your deductions. You need to keep in mind that such a gift is irrevocable, but so is the charitys obligation to pay you for life. IRAs Gifts through your IRA provide yet another opportunity. Possibility 1: if you are age 70 or older, you can direct up to $100,000 a year to charity from your IRA. Although you wont receive a charitable tax deduction, neither will such a distribution count as taxable income. (Keep in mind that the distribution must go directly from ones account to the charity.) Possibility 2: make charity a full, partial or contingent beneficiary of your IRA upon your death. IRA funds left to loved ones can be heavily taxed, but giving these funds to charity can allow you to direct other assets to loved ones, with potentially favorable tax treatment. The Society of the Little Flower would be happy to provide additional information about these or other ways to help both your favorite charity and yourself. Elizabeth Wesel in our Special Gifts office can be reached at 888-996-1212 or elizabeth.wesel@littleflower.org.Editors Note: This article is intended to provide general information and is not meant to provide legal, tax or ?nancial advice; always consult a trusted professional about these or other giving opportunities.

To learn more aboutAMG Senior Medical Group - Home Visits by Physicians, CLICK HERE.Our comprehensive medical group includes a team of doctors, nurse practitioners, medical assistants, and practice managers. Our goal since our inception is to provide the most trust worthy comprehensive mobile medical care in the business.With our integrity, clinical knowledge, and amazing practitioners we have done that. In just a few short years we have grown to be the largest mobile medical group in the state.Whether we visit you in your residential home or in an assisted/independent living facility, we offer a complete service program to keep you healthy and strong.Mission StatementThrough our philosophy of unity, kindness, and professionalism, we inspire an environment of compassion and wellness, where holistic care is given and received.

Outpatient rehabilitation begins with a thorough evaluation of the patients condition and needs. During the evaluation, the patients current level of ability is assessed and the desired treatment outcomes are established. Following the evaluation, a rehabilitation therapist determines which treatment methods will achieve the patients rehabilitation goals.Treatment methods may include: hands-on therapy to address joint mobility and deep tissue needs; patient-specific exercise and strength training programs; or pain and swelling management. When necessary, therapists teach patients to use assistive and adaptive devices such as splints, crutches, prostheses and wheelchairs. Therapists also instruct patients in at-home activities that help speed rehabilitation recovery.Most rehabilitation therapists, which include Physical, Occupational and Speech therapist, treat a wide range of physical and neurological disabilities and many specialize in areas such as, geriatrics, orthopedics, sports medicine, oncology, neurological, cardiac and pulmonary rehabilitation.Rehabilitation therapists often consult and practice with a variety of other professionals, including, but not limited to, physicians, dentists, nurses, educators, and social workers.Outpatient rehabilitation can help treat the following conditions:AmputationArthritisBack and neck pain/injuryBalance disorderCardiac conditionsConcussionCognitive deficitsDevelopmental disabilityFractureIncontinenceLimb deficiencyLymphedemaNerve injury/repairNeuromuscular diseaseOrthopedic conditionsPainPulmonary conditionsSpinal cord injurySpeaking difficultiesSports injuryStrokeSwallowing difficultiesThe goal of physical rehabilitation is to restore each patients personal independence and to help patients achieve the highest level of function specific to their condition.Editors Note: This article was submitted by Brad Chewakin, PT, CMPT and Kim Duncan, MA, CCC-SLP. They are managers for Adult OP Rehab with Memorial Hospital, part of University of Colorado Health. Brad Chewakin can be reached at 719-365-1835 and Kim Duncan can be reached at 719-365-6543.

Does your agency utilize an existing VA benefit called Aid & Attendance? Some agencies offer help to Veterans but its mostly just gathering paperwork necessary for the A&A... and thats it! Care typically doesnt start until the VA pays the agency, which can take months with those agencies unfamiliar with the process. If you call an agency and they dont know anything about the A&A benefit OR they do offer it and/or it takes longer than 2-4 weeks to START care move on! Instead, try and find an agency that understands the complexity of the A&A, can start care within 2-4 weeks and has no hidden costs to get started.Do you have experienced VA Accredited Agents within your office to help with this process? Some agencies will outsource this critical step to local Attorneys or Financial Planners that may have accreditation, but the A&A benefit is just one of many products they offer. Find an agency that has VA Accredited Agents on their team that are dedicated and focused only on capturing the A&A benefit and offer no other products or services.Are there any upfront costs to start the process? Again, some agencies work through an Attorney or a Financial Planner that technically can help you with this process; however, they have creative ways of collecting payment for other services so they can get paid up to an estimated $500 or more. Instead, try and find a Veteran-dedicated agency that offers this at NO COST OR RISK for those who apply. There is no reason for you to pay out-of-pocket for these services.How long will it take before I can start care? Most agencies dont start care immediately simply because they dont have the funds available to absorb the cost of labor for weeks or even months waiting on the VA to begin payment. So, they will process the paperwork and make you wait until the VA releases the funds. Try and find an agency that starts care within 2-4 weeks with no costs upfront and that offers a complete Veterans Program.Editors Note: This article was submitted by Steve Lee, Founder & CEO of Curantis Health Veterans Aide. He may be reached at 720-459-5907 or by email at Steve@CurantisHealth.com

Alzheimers disease (AD) is the most common cause of dementia. Worldwide, it is currently estimated that 35 million people have AD or a related dementia. With increasing life expectancy, those numbers are expected to increase to around 66 million by 2030 and to more than 115 million by 2050.In the United States, 5.4 million individuals of all ages are currently estimated to have AD, with the vast majority (>95%) aged older than 65 years.The main underlying cause of memory loss and confusion with AD is theprogressive damage to brain cellsresponsible for memory.Subtle changes in memory are commonly the first presenting symptom indicating a potential decline. Common early indicators of memory change include: 1) memory loss that starts to impact your daily life 2) difficulty completing familiar tasks 3) confusion with time or place 4) new problems with words in speaking or writing 5) frequently misplacing items or inability to retrace your steps.A memory screening is a simple and safe healthy brain check-up that tests memory and other thinking skills. The memory screening is a series of questions and/or tasks that takes approximately 10 minutes to complete and can indicate if someone might benefit from a comprehensive medical evaluation. It is not used to diagnose any particular illness and does not replace consultation with a physician or other clinician.Benefits of a memory screen include establishing a baseline to measure future repeat assessments and early recognition of memory decline. Early detection of memory impairment may afford a person the opportunity to take advantage of treatments that may slow the changes in memory and thinking skills or participate in a clinical trial.Other benefits of early detection include the opportunity to learn more about the disease, including available and emerging medical treatments; get counseling and other social services support in their community; address legal, financial and other planning issues; and have more of a say in decision-making. Caregivers and other family members can take advantage of community services, such as support groups, which can help them feel betterphysically and emotionally. They can discuss treatment, future care and other issues with their loved ones, rather than having to make decisions on their own.If you or a loved one suspect early signs of memory changes, please feel free to contact us to schedule a free memory screening. This article was submitted by Rekha Gandhi, MD, Board-certified Neurologist and Principal Investigator for Conquest Research. Visit www.conquestresearch.com or call 407-916-0060 to learn more.

Senior living is evolving. The focus has shifted to emphasizing the needs, wishes and preferences of the individual above all else. Seniors want more choice, they want variety and excitement. Most of all, they want to keep their active lifestyles. At Aspired Living of Westmont, located at 407 W. 63rd Street in Westmont, we have not only learned this and understand their needs, but are leading this innovation. Its time to change the way society thinks about senior living and aging.When choosing a community, more and more seniors desire personalized Assisted Living and groundbreaking A Knew Day Memory Care all in one place. Groundbreaking new programs, such as Spark of Life are providing the care seniors need with the benefits they want. Recognized and awarded by the International Association of Homes & Services for the Ageing and offered solely in the United States by Pathway to LivingTM, Spark of Life is a groundbreaking memory care program proven to rehabilitate the brain a process called rementia lifting the spirit and awakening dormant abilities, including speech. IAHSA is part of The Global Ageing Network which is aiming to connect and support care and service providers worldwide to enhance the quality of life for aging.Alongside convenient living options, seniors strive to find a lifestyle that inspires them to celebrate their lives and make their dreams a reality. With award-winning programming such as VIVA!SM programming by Pathway to Living, seniors find exactly what they are looking for a variety of innovative, engaging programs tailored to the multiple interests and opportunities to socialize, grow and learn each day. Say goodbye to your grandmothers bingo and other typical cookie-cutter programming, seniors want hands-on, exciting and unique programming. Think travelling the world through VIVA! World Tour, encouraging a budding artist with both old and new art techniques, exploring the sounds of countries abroad with Good Vibrations, and exploring and discovering new interests through Extreme VIVA!. With such engaging programming, its no wonder seniors expect more out of senior living.Its time for seniors to experience a new approach to senior living. For more information, call us at 630-448-8736 or visit us at AspiredLivingWestmont.com.Editors Note: This article was submitted by Kourtnie Huddleston.Kourtnie is a Lifestyle Specialist with Aspired Living of Westmont located at 407 W. 63rd Street in Westmont. She may be reached at 630-448-8736 or by email at KHuddleston@AspiredLivingWestmont.com

Long Term Care Insurance (LTCI) can be very daunting and intimidating for just about anyone outside of an insurance agent or financial planner. There are so many nuances and requirements that its very important to read your policy in full and follow the exact procedures the policy outlines in order to qualify for coverage. Every policy is different and ultimately it is up to you, the policyholder to submit the correct information. This article is intended as a very basic guide to LTCI, it is not legal or financial advice.What is an Elimination Period?The best way to describe an elimination period is simple. It's the basically the same thing as a deductible or cash out of pocket the policy holder must pay before the benefits begin to be paid. Typically the elimination period is 0-100 days. But there are several important questions to ask. How does the policy qualify these days? Do they require service days? Calendar days? What counts as one service day? These are very important questions to ask when you call to review your policy. Knowing what to ask may save you money and headache.Where does my LTCI cover services?Skilled Nursing?Assisted Living?Non-Medical Home healthcare workers?How do I qualify for my LTCI? When is the best time to use it? Should I wait or should I proceed with a claim? What is the maximum daily limit? What is the maximum lifetime benefit? How do I get reimbursed? To whom does the claim get paid? All of these are very important questions.To be eligible for any type of benefit under most policies, your Physician may be required show that you meet one of the three following benefit qualifiers:Medical Necessity: (Acute or chronic illness)Loss of Functional Capacity: (Assistance with ADLs: Activities of Daily Living)Cognitive Impairment: Dementia or other cognitive impairment requiring daily monitoring.All too often we attempt to understand and activate our LTCI due to family crisis. When it comes to LTCI it can save you both time and money if you understand your policy ahead time. Even if you dont currently need care we recommend contacting either your insurance agent or a home care company for a free assessment. This will help you understand your coverage and plan for future needs.Editors Note: This article was written and submitted by Amy Culler with Amada Senior Care Northwest Denver. She may be reached at 720-239-1337or by email at:Amy.c@amadaseniorcare.com

For More Information on Coastal Orthopedics, CLICK HERE.What is Chronic Pain?The term chronic pain, also known as intractable pain, is used to describe pain that is ongoing, or intermittent, over a period of several months or even years. The pain may feel dull or sharp and cause an aching or burning sensation in the affected area. Sometimes caused by an old injury or disease, chronic pain can also occur without any apparent underlying cause.Living with chronic pain can take a toll on your mental and physical health. Ranging from mild to severe, chronic pain may limit your flexibility, mobility, strength, and endurance, and it can make getting through your daily activities more challenging. This, then, often leads to bouts of depression and anxiety, which can exacerbate the pain. Its important to learn how to manage chronic pain so you can still lead an active and healthy life.Four Main Types of Chronic PainThe different types of chronic pain generally fall into one of these four categories: Neuropathic pain:This refers to pain caused by a malfunctioning nervous system or damage to the nervous system. Neuropathic pain is often characterized as a shooting or burning pain, such as sciatica, which is pain affecting the back, hip, upper to lower leg, and heel stemming from damage or injury to the sciatic nerve.Muscle pain:Injury or deterioration of muscle tissue can cause pain in the lower back, shoulders, arms, neck, legs, hips, and feet. This type of pain is typically caused by injury or repetitive motion.Inflammatory pain:Arthritis, infection, and tissue damage all fall under inflammatory pain. Symptoms may include swelling, warmth, and redness in the affected area.Mechanical pain:Mechanical pain is caused by pressure or compression of the bones, discs, ligaments, nerves, and joints associated with thespine. Typically affecting the lower back region, mechanical pain could be the result of fractures of the vertebrae or disc degeneration.Treatment Options for Chronic PainThe goal of treating and managing chronic pain is to reduce the pain so you can stay active and perform your daily activities without a great deal of discomfort. Depending on the overall condition of health, and the severity and frequency of your pain will determine the type of pain management plan that will work best for you.Pain managementtypically includes one or more of the following:Medicine Such as pain relievers, anticonvulsants, or antidepressants.Therapy such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, low-impact exercise, behavioral therapy (meditation, stress reduction).Alternative medicine such as acupuncture or massage.Invasive treatments(for severe cases of chronic pain) such as surgery, electrical stimulation, or nerve blocks.In addition to the above treatment options, its also important to take a holistic approach to managing your pain by incorporating a healthy, well-rounded diet, fitness plan, and relaxation techniques into your daily routine.Managing Chronic PainLiving with chronic pain can be hard, but it doesnt have to keep you down. Its important to make sure your lifestyle works in tandem with your treatment plan to keep your chronic pain manageable. Stay active and exercise often, stick to a regular bedtime routine, dont smoke or drink too much, and maintain a healthy weight. Additionally, seek out friends and family for support and regularly enjoy your favorite activities to keep your mind off the pain.

Signs of hearing loss include asking people to repeat what they have said, hearing but not understanding speech, and trouble communicating in the presence of background noise.Tinnitus is also a sign of hearing loss. Many people report hearing ringing, buzzing, humming and cricket sounds. Nearly 50 million Americans experience some type of hearing loss, with approximately 20 million dealing with some type of Tinnitus.Tinnitus is your brains reaction to a loss of signal from your ear, its not a disease in and of itself, but rather a symptom.Do you experience symptoms of Tinnitus, but have been told that you will just have to live with it? Although there is no cure, Susan has developed her own unique, proven treatment options. Over the past 20 years, Susan has had the opportunity to help hundreds of patients, by listening to each of their needs and treating symptoms individually. This article was submitted by Susan Baker. Susan is the owner/operator at Advanced Hearing Services and may be reached at (970) 221-5249 or by email at susan@advancedhearing.net with any questions.

It has always been my belief that in order to fully take care of a patient, a comprehensive plan and resources need to be in place.While there are many aspects of good patient care, access to services is vitally important along with those resources communicating with each other to coordinate that care. Having medical services, such as a pharmacy, a medical clinic, and a home health and hospice working jointly together provides a higher level of care rather than have a patient go to several different locations that are unconnected. Amphex Medical has seen this trend coming and has taken steps to provide this level of care. For example, the services of, Adult Care Clinic, specializing in pain and addiction management. Amphex Pharmacy, a locally owned and operated compounding pharmacy with home delivery, and Creekside Home Health and Hospice provide an exceptional level of service. Having this integration, not only, allows the patient to benefit by having these resources at their disposal, but also allows for a better understanding of the patients medical needs and to respond appropriately to changes in their condition. A fully integrated staff of medical doctors, nurses and pharmacists review patients needs weekly, and care is tailored to provide safe and effective therapy. Many patients unfortunately fall through the cracks, or care is below average resulting in increased hospital visits, which causes undue stress on patients and family members. Having this integrated level of care allows us to set up goals to reduce hospital admissions and help family members become less burdened knowing that several areas of services can work closely together to best manage care. Integrated care also allows for a more holistic approach to getting better. Not only managing the symptoms but finding the root cause of problems and working together to fix, heal and prevent them from happening or getting worse. An increased quality of life for our patients and their families is a goal we all strive for. We do not rest until we feel as caregivers have made a significant contribution to family wellness and health.Editors Note: This article was submitted by Rajiv R. Sharma, Pharm.D., a Clinical Pharmacist owner/CEO of Amphex Pharmacy and Amphex Medical, he may be reached at his Creekside Home Health and Hospice office at 801-810-2122 or by email at rajivrx@gmail.com

As you age, keeping your brain healthy is just as important as keeping your physical body in shape.Every brain changes with age. Cognitive changes are common, but there are many things you can do to maintain a healthy brain and prevent cognitive decline.For anyone looking to preserve cognitive health, as well as for those individuals who are experiencing cognitive issues due to an injury or event, keeping your brain active is key. Exercising your brain stimulates connectivity and strengthens your brains ability to protect against some of the natural changes that come with aging. Specialized services such as Cognitive Rehabilitation Therapy can help to preserve and strengthen cognitive skills without using medication or invasive treatments.Evidence shows that functional Cognitive Rehabilitation Therapy is effective in compensating for problems you may be experiencing with memory, attention, or communication. These issues can be frustrating and worrisome. The good news is that thanks to decades of research, there are many proven strategies that you can use to protect your brain and improve your cognitive skills. You will feel sharper, in control, and more confident when you put these strategies to use.Eat a balanced diet. Good nutrition supports brain function and decreases inflammation. Start by making one new choice or healthy substitution each day.Do your best to move your body every day. Exercise improves blood flow and stimulates brain cells to make new connections.Stay connected with others. Socialization helps with communication, improves mood, and lowers the risk of depression.Incorporate specialized services like Cognitive Rehabilitation Therapy, which can help to sharpen skills and compensate for problems with thinking.Taking a balanced and proactive approach to maintaining your brain health by using the above strategies will result in improved recall, better communication skills, increased confidence, more independence and simply living your best life.Editors Note: This article was submitted by Jessica Chappell, MA, CBIT. Jessica is the Executive Director of Main Line Rehabilitation Associates, Inc. If you would like more information on Cognitive Rehabilitation Therapy, call 1-877-480-6714 or email jchappell@mainline-rehab.com. Please see their website at www.mainline-rehab.com and their ad on page 26.

Within many uncertain moments of the pandemic, palliative care has been the hidden tool to face the multifaceted issues that arise. It is being utilized as it should: for patients with serious illness where medical intervention can cause more harm than good.Palliative care offers more than meets the eye. It provides a window to deliver quality at such a delicate and crucial time. Advocacy in areas of goal making, legal, financial, social, psychological, spiritual and physical concerns are accomplished through palliative care.Its a safe place for patients and families to be heard and valued, and foster collaboration among medical teams. Coronavirus can cause rapid deterioration, so advanced care planning is imperative. Palliative care hotlines and mobile units became new innovations to address the surge of consultations.Stockpiles of comfort medications such as morphine, scopolamine, and midazolam are supplied together and essential. COVID-related pneumonia, and the variable clinical manifestations we are seeing in different populations, requires expert management of fever, dyspnea, upper airway congestion, nausea, anxiety and delirium.Telemedicine has reduced infection and improved efficiency of healthcare delivery. With symptoms managed we can then address caregiver grief and better support patients with marginalized populations, those most at risk for being underserved. During this pandemic, equital healthcare and autonomous decision making are threatened in the realms of election of life prolonging therapy in all healthcare settings.Palliative care also lowers societal and healthcare costs by $3K per palliative consultation. My palliative care teams have led to $7 million dollars of cost savings, reduced readmission rates from 22% to 6% in nursing homes, and compassionately served thousands of patients toward quality of life and dignity, regardless of their illness progression.People start feeling better right away when they can make well informed decisions and have their symptoms managed well. Palliative care is a human right and serves humanity well when integrated into hospital systems.Editors Note: Dr. Kuljit Kapur is the Chief Medical Officer for Transitions Hospice serving northern Illinois and northwestern Indiana. For more information on Palliative Care or Hospice, please call 877-726-6494 or visit www.transitionshospice.com.

In fall, a gardeners thoughts tend to turn toward winding things down. That goes for Florida gardeners as well as northern ones! In fall we do things such as planting cool weather annuals, tending fruit trees,anda heck of a lot oftrimming.The changing of seasons is also a perfect time to reflect on the Zen principle that everything in the universe is in a constant state of transformation. To a Zen Buddhist, impermanence is taken for granted, and nowhere is impermanence more evident than in a garden. Flowers grow, bloom, and die back. Fruits ripen, then fall to the ground and rot. During a summer of steady rains, the perennial shrubs grow so fast, they needconstantpruning!Impermanenceis one of the important concepts on display in theelegantJapanese art form of ikebana. Other concepts covered in this meditative practice areimperfectionandminimalism. Ikebana is a contemplative practice on a par with the ritual of the tea ceremony. It can be both relaxing and expressive,spiritualand secular. Along with calligraphy, ikebana and the tea ceremony are often practiced by Zen Buddhists because these activities are calming and require a certain degree of meditative concentration, according to Tricycle.org.Ikebana probably first appeared in Japan around the 7th century, imported from Chinaas an outgrowth of the regular practice ofoffering flowersto theBuddha. It wasnt until the 15th century, however, that ikebana began developing into a more ritualized art form. About this time, the 8th shogun, Ashikaga Yoshimasa (14361490), who was a patron of the artsparticularly flower arrangingcontributed greatly to the art form by practicing it himself, thus increasing its popularity among the upper classes. In fact, many of Japans generals through the ages have been practitioners of ikebana as a method of relaxation. Yoshimasa and his contemporaries even influenced the first codification of basic rules for ikebana.Although there have been many schools of ikebana through the ages, all have shared a common goal of honoring nature and respecting the spirit. Each floral arrangement forms a roughly triangular shape which is pleasing to the eye aesthetically, but also has deeper significance: The tallest branch represents heaven, the next highest represents humans, and a small bundle of flowers at the base represents earth. Creative ikebana practitionerscanuse seasonal and locally sourced materials to create new arrangements within these basic parameters.CONTEMPORARY PRACTITIONERSHayatoNishiyama, who lives in Kyoto, went to artschooland joined an ikebana club. Eventually hegrew tolovebotanyso much that he gave up art and became a gardener instead. The constant change of seasons inspires his work, as shown in an arrangement featuring autumn-red rowan branches (a gift from a northern friend) set against late-summer purple asters. Another work,showing three small flowers planted in mossone in bud, one flowering, and onefadingseems to comment on past, present, and future as well as the cyclical nature of time and life.Ikebana practitioners seem to prefer to usethe flowersand othermaterials that are native to wherever they live. Emily Thompson, a self-taught floral artist working in Manhattan, often usessuch unusual materials as weeds, hairy seed pods, and exotics. She is attempting to build worlds made of the infinite wealth of nature,she toldThe New York Times. One of her arrangements features a twisted, lichen-covered apple-tree branch with decaying leaves and one withered apple, paired with snowy Serena roses. Besides illustrating the contrast and impermanence,the arrangement sparks contemplation about how far that apple branch traveled to get to her hands.TRY IT YOURSELFIkebana courses may be found at many local schools, and through national and international organizations. You dont need elaborate materials: a sharp pair of pruners, akenzan(the pin-covered object we call a frog) to hold your materials firmly in place, and a small container. Some ikebana practitioners believe thattheir artshould be practiced in silence; others dont believe thats so important.But you might find yourself sinking into a meditative state as youthink about what materials to use, gather them from your garden or yard, andwork on your arrangement, contemplating the theories that your instructor explains to you. When you are finished with your first ikebana arrangement, you should feel a sense of wholeness as the three points of the triangle of heaven, human, and earth find their balance.According to Natalie Cenci, writing for Artsy: In Japan today, the wordkado, meaning way of flowers, is the preferred term for ikebana, as its believed to more accurately capture the spirit of the art as a lifelong path of learning. The impermanence built into this art, beginning with its dependence on natures seasons, lends itself to never-ending exploration and experimentation.Explore the many seasons of ikebana foryourself, andsee your garden with new eyes!Written by Patricia Rockwood, Instructor and Staff Writer, Adult & Community Enrichment (ACE)atSuncoast Technical College.

Click here to begin your FREE search!You may be eligible for housing programs that can help you find and pay foraffordable housing or help you keep your home. There are alsohome repairprograms that can help you fix critical and safety issues found in your home or help pay for your household utilities (e.g.heating, cooling, and phone).Learn more about the program that can help you save money. Benefit programs include:MedicationsHealth CareIncome AssistanceFood & NutritionHousing & UtilitiesTax ReliefVeteranEmploymentCounseling AssistanceVision Loss ServicesRespite Care ServicesPension AssistancePark & Recreational DiscountsEducation ProgramsTransportation Assistance& More!HowBenefitsCheckUpWorks:Answer some questions. Review your initials results or enter more details to personize your report.Get your report. Provide more information to get a customized report of benefits youre most likely to qualify for.See how to apply. Review your custom report, learn more about benefits, and start enrolling in programs.Click here to begin your FREE search!

Opportunities that local organizations that offer regardless of ones skills, experience, education, trade, or profession, Volunteer opportunities are flexible and based on the volunteers interests and time commitments. Volunteer opportunities include mentoring and tutoring children, delivering Meals on Wheels, providing transportation to critical medical appointments and much more.#listing_mgr{7 basic_search}#

A new Medicare billing code (G0505) now allows clinicians treating Medicare beneficiaries to be reimbursed for providing care planning to those experiencing cognitive impairment (memory loss), including Alzheimers disease.This is a very important change in the billing system as it will allow physicians, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, clinical nurse specialists and certified nurse midwives to offer assessment and care planning services beyond the scope of the Annual Wellness visit and receive reimbursement from the Physician Fee Schedule. What does this mean for the patient? Better and more comprehensive discussion and strategies to deal with memory loss and Alzheimers related issues.Care planning allows newly-diagnosed individuals and their caregiver to learn more about medical and non-medical treatments, clinical trials and support services available in their community. All of this results in a better quality of life for those that maximize the information and support. Individuals receiving care planning support specific to dementia concerns typically have fewer hospitalizations, fewer emergency room visits and better medication management. Care planning is the key to care coordination and management for those experiencing Alzheimers and other chronic conditions. With this code, clinicians will have the time and resources to provide a comprehensive set of care planning services which may improve quality of life and reduce caregiver stress. Alzheimer's caregivers frequently report experiencing high levels of stress due to the overwhelming needs that are associated with taking care of loved ones. Too much stress is harmful to both the caregiver and those to whom they are providing care. Additionally, care planning promotes putting legal and financial plans in place which can provide comfort to the entire family thereby reducing the stress associated with future decisions.Good health care requires a partnership between the patient, family and physician. Ask about the new care planning code options available through CMS Code G0505. Your physician may not yet be familiar with this new code. Share the information and plan ahead to get the most out of your medical appointments. When visiting your doctor, bring medications, provide good records, ask questions and offer honest answers. At the end of your appointment, ask the doctor to recap the most important points. Write them down. Note any follow-up steps needed (such as scheduling the next appointment or having tests done).most of all leave with a plan.For more information go to the Caregiver Center at www.alz.org or call the 24/7 Helpline at 1.800.272.3900.Editorial Note: Debra Adams, Director Community Relations, Alzheimers Association Greater Dallas Chapter. Read more from the February 2017 Fact Sheet and at www.alz.org

To learn more aboutApple Tree Assisted Living,CLICK HERE.While we wish it were not the case, one subject that can be stressful for seniors and their family members or caregivers is money. From the simple fact that emergencies happen more often as we age to the reality that tracking various bills and finances can be complex, there are a number of potential stresses here.At Cozy Retire, we offer numeroussenior care servicesin our assisted living community, including numerous personal care areas but also assistance with many other broad themes that seniors face, including stress from their finances. If youre a loved one or a caregiver of a senior who you worry may be struggling with some money problems, what are some good approaches to take while discussing these concerns in an open and productive way? Here are a few basics.Honesty With EmpathyThe simplest approach here is honesty, but it must be paired with empathy and kindness. You want to approach any financial conversation from aplace of caring and assistance, and show your loved one that youre here to help.While doing so, however, its important to hit on some major topics. Ask about whether your loved one has a will and where its kept, plus whether theyve designated someone as their financial power of attorney. Also inquire about the financial institutions they use and whether they have any online accounts set up, plus the income received monthly from various sources. Finally, look into basic areas like bill pay and income taxes to be sure these are being covered. The initial goal of a conversation like this is to get an idea of your loved ones finances so you can assist them where needed.Financial PlanningAnother important topic to inquire about is whether your loved one has spoken to an accountant or financial planner and if they have not, you both might consider this route. If your loved one already has a relationship with such a professional, ask them if its okay for you to have permission to view their documents or make changes to their account this should never be done without the consent of your loved one, however.Share ConcernsIf you have gone over finances and have some concerns, its important to be honest about them. One of the most common such concerns for many senior loved ones or caregivers isfinancial fraud or scams, which are often targeted at seniors due to their age. Help your loved one understand some of the risks here and the areas to avoid some caregivers even help their loved one register for the Do Not Call Registry so theyre not exposed to telephone marketing scams.Dont OverwhelmFinally, dont overwhelm your loved one here. If more than one conversation is needed to fully manage finances, thats totally okay. Be patient and understanding at all times, and realize that its difficult for many people to accept help with a sensitive area like their finances.For more on assisting a senior loved one with financial areas, or to learn about any of our senior living services, speak to the staff atCozy Retiretoday.

Senior Citizens having trouble paying real estate taxes can apply for the Senior Citizen Tax Deferral Program. This program allows quali?ed Illinois residents to defer up to $5000 of the property taxes on their personal residence, giving seniors the ?nancial freedom to remain in their own home. Deferred taxes are repaid with low interest when the property is sold or following the taxpayers death.Qualifications: Be 65 or older by June 1st, 2018 Annual household income of $55,000 or less Own and reside on the property for at least 3 years No delinquent real estate taxes owed on the residence Property must be insured against fire hazard loss for at least the amount of deferred taxes Have written approval from spouse if property is held jointly or from the trustee if in a qualifying trust Seniors with reverse mortgages should contact their lender before applying. Those with standard mortgages do not need lender approval to qualify.Applications for the Senior Citizen Tax Deferral program must be fi led between January 1st and March 1st, 2019. A second program, Cook Countys Senior Property Assessment Freeze, is open to those whose 2017 household income was $65,000 or less. This program freezes the (EAV)equalized assessed value of their property for the year preceding the year in which they first apply and qualify for this exemption, but not the property tax itself. Seniors who qualify for the first time in 2019 will have their EAV frozen at the 2018 valuation, but can backfile for 3 years to 2016. Please note that the household income limit for 2015 and 2016 is $55,000 or less.Application requirements: Be 65 or older in 2018 Total household income for 2017 must be $65,000 or less Own the property or have a contract or lease showing you are responsible for the property taxes Property must be applicants principal residence from January 1, 2017 through January 1, 2018Interested seniors are encouraged to apply as soon as possible so the exemption appears on the 2nd installment of your 2018 property tax bill. Suburban Cook County Seniors living in any town in Palos, Lemont, Orland or Worth Township can call PLOWS Council on Aging, 708.361.0219, and our advocates will assist with these applications. PLOWS, a 501 (c)3 non-profit senior service agency, will not charge for these services.Editors note: This article was submitted by Christine Suddreth. Christine is a Community Relations Coordinator with PLOWS Council on Aging and can be reached at 708.361.0219 or by email at info@plows.org.

The core principals of Person Centered Care (PCC) include assurance of choice, dignity, respect and independence. At the heart of PCC is the idea of choice, and that every person deserves to make their own choices.For some, this may mean sleeping in late. This may seem like a simple choice, but for many elders its not that simple. For years traditional large facilities have been based on a model of care that is focused on task-oriented efficiency. Staff duties often come before elders choices. PCC rebalances those work priorities to focus on the elder rather than the tasks to be accomplished.Nowhere is this more evident than in the Small House concept. Small House has been pioneered alongside PCC to allow one-on-one, reciprocal relationships between resident and caregiver based on a residents needs, not on accomplishing duties or tasks. While one-on-one contact is desired in the large facilities, the caregiver-to-resident ratio doesnt allow for prolonged direct contact. In Small House there are only 6 to 16 residents, and it is about the care the resident receives, not about the task of giving care. Instead of following strict schedules, which are needed for larger numbers of residents, this concept gives more freedom of choice. The bottom line is that Small House and Person-Centered Care promote better health and independence in an environment that is like home.Editorial note: Submitted by Katy Moore at Sonoma House Assisted Living. Contact her at www.sonomahouseal.com or 972-385-0500.

For more information on the author Discovery Village At Sarasota Bay, CLICK HERE.A recentTime Magazinearticle stated that New recommendations for U.S. dietary guidelines included the surprise suggestion that cholesterol should not be a nutrient of special concernbut added that sugar and saturated fat are still worth worrying about. Doctors also say that if we cut out processed food and focus on eating whole foods, the instance of disease and chronic health conditions will decrease.With all of the discussion about a healthy lifestyle, the focus tends to be on younger generations to keep them from becoming obese as they age. But, truthfully, it is essential for the elderly to maintain a healthy diet.It is common for this segment of the population to experience a loss of appetite as they age. Not only do they experience a slowing of their metabolism and reduction in physical activity, but they may also take medication that affects their appetite or forget to eat because of dementia and forgetfulness. For some, they may eat very little or even nothing at all for a couple of days if given the opportunity especially when living alone.That is where living in a senior living communitycan prove to be an enormous help. Most communities offer dining services with excellent, healthy meal options to ensure that those living there get the nourishment they need. Following are some of the ways senior living communities focus on nutrition:Three Balanced Meals. Senior living communitiesinclude meals prepared by expert chefs who create delicious, fresh, and healthy options that all the residents enjoy. Many communities create an atmosphere in the dining room where residents can relish the camaraderie of others while each part of the meal is brought to them in a style similar tofive-star dining.Proper Nutrition. As people get older they become deficient in vitamins and minerals that are essential to proper health, specifically Vitamin D and Vitamin B12. Not only do they provide three balanced meals, but also dining services at most senior living communities focus on ensuring that residents get the recommended allowances of vitamins and supplements. More often than not, nutritionists review menu plans to give them a stamp of approval from their perspective.Dining is an Experience.Depending on the community, dining is typically done similarly to a high-end restaurant where everyone is seated at tables and residents pick from a prepared menu of several options for a particular meal. Additionally, residents have the choice of sitting where and with whom they would like. Mealtimes are social times for most of the residents, providing a great opportunity for them to get to know their neighbors better.Chefs Participation with Residents. Just like in a restaurant, the chef at most senior living communities comes out before serving to go over the menu and describe each item to entice residents to look forward to their meal. As they eat, the chef also likes to go to each table and talk with residents. Because senior living communities are close-knit, the chef makes every effort to get to know the residents on a personal level. This adds special warmth to the residents, making them feel as special as they are.Chef Accommodates Dietary Restrictions. Overall, most any chefs will prepare meals as healthy as possible by using different seasonings and spices in place of salt and preparing meals that are not laden with fat. But for those who have specific dietary restrictions, the chef is usually able to accommodate each meal to meet those needs.Special Meals and Events. Senior living communities love to host dances, parties, and other events especially special meals around the holidays. Even during these times, great care and preparation go into making sure that the food is healthy and nutritious not to mention tasty.Food and diet are essential to maintain optimum health. Independent living communities understand this and work hard to ensure residents get balanced nutrition.Discovery Village at Twin Creeksoffers senior living programsthat includeSensational Dining.This program makes everyone feel like they are eating at a 5-star restaurant every day. To learn more about our community and programs, click the link above.

When seniors health issues or functional capabilities worsen as they age, its entirely likely that they will require more care at home, whether they live in an assisted living center or nursing home, or whether they receive care from a hospice provider.Its also quite possible that the majority of their day-to-day care will be provided a nurses aide, certified nursing assistant or hospice aide. June 13-20 is designated as National Nursing Assistants Week in 2019, honoring nursing assistants and aides who provide up to an estimated 90% of nursing care, according to the National Network of Career Nursing Assistants.HOSPICE AIDES PROVIDE DAY-TO-DAY CARE At VITAS Healthcare, the nations leading provider of end-of-life care, 35% of our 7,328 nurses are hospice aides, and in 2018, 94 of them were recognized as outstanding employees. Their nominations tell powerful stories of caring: She spent three days in lockdown in the inpatient hospice unit during Hurricane Irma as part of the staff that looked after the patients who were hospitalized during the event. "...He sees many patients a day, and he treats all of them as if they are the only patient he has. Even when they cant communicate with him, you can see the appreciation in their faces. Whenever she has visited a patient, a family will call and say, Please send the aide who worked last night. She was outstanding. I was finally able to get some sleep.According to one 2018 VITAS honoree: When I arrive at a patients home, my spirit is to serve. My approach is to smile and to advocate. I let them know I am here for them, and whatever I can do to make things better, I will certainly give my all to achieve that. Be sure to say thanks during National Nursing Assistants Week to a hospice aide or caregiver who made (or is making) a difference in your life or the life of a loved one.Editors Note: Article Submitted by Cathy Carlson, General Manager for VITAS Healthcare in Chicago. For more information about end-of-life care options, call VITAS Healthcare at 866.759.6695 or visit VITAS.com.

With the arrival of cooler weather comes winter sports activities such as skiing, football, and holiday shopping (yes, this a sport!), which all lead to us being more active. Of course, being active is good, but these activities could also cause or aggravate an already existing injury to the knee or hip, which is bad.Hip andknee paincan be the result of a variety of causes, including a ligament tear or muscle strain from a direct impact to osteoarthritis or other diseases that cause wear and tear of the joint over time.Common symptoms of knee pain include:increased pain when the knee is bent or extendedswellinglimited range of motionbuckling of the kneeinability to put your full weight on the kneeCommon symptoms of hip pain include:joint painstiffness of the hip joint after sitting for long periods of timeswelling and tendernessdifficulty sleeping on your hipUtilize these top 10 ways to relieve your hip or knee pain:Rest Intense activity can increase hip or knee pain, so give it a rest for a day or two to reduce pain and inflammation. but dont rest too much! Inactivity for long stretches of time weakens the muscles that help support the hip and knee joints. Exercise can improve the health of cartilage tissue and strengthen the muscles that support the joint. Rest when the pain is bad, but then get back to moderate activity and strength training exercises to reduce pain and help prevent further injury.Ice it To reduce pain and swelling, ice your knee or hip for 15 to 20 minutes every couple of hours. Continue this for a few days or until the pain has passed.Compress (Knee). Wrapping your knee joint with an elastic bandage or straps will help keep the swelling down and provide additional support.Elevate (Knee). Keep your knee elevated by placing a pillow or cushion underneath it while sitting or lying down to reduce swelling.Stretch and Strengthen Practice physical therapy exercises that will stretch and strengthen the knee and hip joint to improve range of motion, make supporting muscles stronger, and reduce inflammation and pain. Here are some good strengthening exercises for thekneeandhip.Weight Management Carrying a lot of excess weight not only increases inflammation in your body but also puts a lot of strain and pressure on your joints. Losing weight can significantly reduce joint pain, particularly in the knee.Medication Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication such as ibuprofen and naproxen are effective in relieving mild to moderate joint pain.Injections In some cases, injections directly into your joint of corticosteroids or hyaluronic acid are effective in reducing inflammation and pain.Surgery If none of the above treatments help, then surgery may be required to eliminate your knee or hip pain. There are several surgical options available depending on the extent of damage to your joint, such as:Arthroscopic surgery a minimally invasive surgery that repairs problems in the joint.Partial knee or hip replacement surgery severely damaged parts of the joint are replaced with plastic or metal parts.Total knee or hip replacement surgery the entire joint is replaced with an artificial joint made of high-grade plastics and metal alloys.Once your knee or hip pain has been eliminated, its important to practice preventative measures to reduce your chances of incurring a repeat injury and pain.Prevention Tips:Graduallyincrease your workout routine to the intensity level you desire.Stretch your legs and hips before and after performing physical activity.Wear proper-fitting shoes that offer plenty of support.Drop some pounds if youre overweight to lessen the stress on all of your joints.If you feel pain in your knee or hip while exercising, stop, and apply a cold pack if desired.Written & Submitted By: Coastal Orthopedics- click for more information*

Choicesthey are sometimes difficult to make but were sure glad when we are offered more than one.When age robs us of physical strength, balance, quick memory recall, agility and energy and we must turn in our car keys, our choices can feel frustratingly limited.For individuals receiving Medicaid benefits who have been in a nursing home for at least 90 days, more choices may exist than you are aware of. The New Choices Waiver is a Medicaid program that can provide options beyond staying in a nursing home long term. Individuals may be able move back into the community of their choice with assistance in place to ensure that they can live independently.Most older adults want to live in their own homes if at all possible. For a person who wants to move out of skilled nursing with the help of the New Choices Waiver, housing options may include living in a private home or apartment, with a loved one, in an assisted living or independent living facility.The New Choices Waiver offers services to facilitate independent living in the community. Services can include:Adult Day Care Assistive Technology DevicesAttendant Care Caregiver TrainingCase Management Chore ServicesRespite Care Homemaker ServicesHome Delivered Meals Habilitation ServicesPersonal Budget Assistance Specialized Medical EquipmentNon-Medical Transportation Medication Assistance ServicesSupportive Maintenance Financial Management ServicesConsumer Preparation Service Emergency Response SystemsCommunity Transition Services Adult Residential ServicesEnvironmental Accessibility AdaptationsCase management companies are provided by Medicaid to help make the transition out of a skilled nursing facility a reality. Case managers will work as your advocate to ensure that you find the right housing option and services to ensure that you can live in a safe and fully supported home. To apply for this program, call the New Choices Waiver office at 1-800-662-9651, option 6, or ask your facility social worker or patient advocate about the New Choices Waiver.If you have lived in an Assisted Living facility for over 12 months and your money is coming to an end, you might also be eligible for this program.Editors Note: This article was submitted by Wendy de la Cruz, SSW. Wendy is a social worker with Advocates for Independence and may be reached at 801-679-6461 or by email

As our loved ones age, their health and well-being become paramount concerns. The complexities of managing their care, medical needs, and overall quality of life can be overwhelming for both seniors and their families. This is where the indispensable role of a geriatric care manager comes into play. Assisted Living Locators of North Pittsburgh understands the critical importance of these professionals in ensuring comprehensive and tailored care for seniors. In this article, we delve into the significant contributions of geriatric care managers and how they can make a positive impact on the lives of seniors and their families.The Multifaceted Role of a Geriatric Care Manager:A geriatric care manager is a seasoned professional with specialized training in gerontology, social work, nursing, or related fields. Their primary role is to act as a liaison between seniors, their families, and various healthcare providers, ensuring that the senior's needs are met holistically.Comprehensive Assessments:Geriatric care managers conduct thorough assessments of a senior's physical, emotional, and social well-being. By analyzing these aspects comprehensively, they create a personalized care plan that addresses the senior's unique needs and preferences.Expert Guidance:Navigating the intricate landscape of senior care services and resources can be daunting. Geriatric care managers serve as knowledgeable guides, offering insights into suitable care options, assisted living facilities, medical professionals, and more.Care Coordination:The coordination of medical appointments, therapies, and day-to-day care can become challenging as a senior's needs evolve. Geriatric care managers ensure seamless communication between various healthcare providers, streamlining the care process.Emotional Support:Geriatric care managers understand the emotional toll that aging can take on both seniors and their families. They provide compassionate emotional support and offer coping strategies for the inevitable transitions and changes that come with aging.Crisis Management:During emergencies or sudden changes in health, geriatric care managers act swiftly to address the situation. Their expertise helps mitigate crises and make informed decisions in high-stress situations.Advocacy:Advocacy is a crucial aspect of a geriatric care manager's role. They represent the senior's best interests, ensuring that they receive appropriate care, treatment, and support.The Assisted Living Locators Advantage:At Assisted Living Locators of North Pittsburgh, we recognize that geriatric care managers play an integral role in enhancing the lives of seniors and their families. Our team includes dedicated geriatric care managers who collaborate with families to create personalized care plans that prioritize the well-being of their loved ones. Here's how our approach sets us apart:Personalized Care: Our geriatric care managers take the time to understand each senior's unique needs and preferences, tailoring care plans accordingly.Vast Network: Leveraging our extensive network of trusted senior care providers, we connect families with the best possible resources, from medical professionals to assisted living facilities.Continued Support: We provide ongoing support, assisting families in navigating changes, adjustments, and any challenges that arise as a senior's care needs evolve.Geriatric care managers are invaluable allies in the journey of aging, offering expert guidance, compassionate support, and holistic care solutions. Assisted Living Locators of North Pittsburgh is proud to have a team of dedicated geriatric care managers who are committed to enhancing the lives of seniors and their families. Together, we strive to ensure that every senior receives the comprehensive care and support they deserve.

Health care costs have been on the rise over the past few years, with health spending for Americans costing more than $8,680 per person, according to 2011 data from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.1Making matters worse, about 80 percent of older adults have at least one chronic condition, such as heart disease, cancer or diabetes, driving up the need for prescriptions and treatments that can add up over time.2However, saving money on your medicine and your overall wellness doesnt have to be a pain-staking endeavor. Here are some tips you can use to help lower your health care costs while still maintaining your health.Ask your physician if there is a generic version of your medication, said Dr. Richard Smith, Medical Director of Senior Products for Humanas Intermountain Region. Generics, which are typically 30-80 percent less expensive than brand name drugs, are equivalent in dosage, form, safety and strength.3, 4 Each year, generic alternatives for top-selling brand name drugs go off patent, helping you save money on common medications, including blood thinners and cholesterol fighters.Another way to cut costs is to see if your health plans pharmacy benefit manager offers a mail-order pharmacy service. An alternative to traditional community pharmacies, mail-order prescription delivery provides 30, 60 and 90-day supplies of your medications shipped directly to your home, usually with significant savings off the regular retail price.The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates health care costs for chronic disease treatment account for more than 75 percent of national health expenditures.5Be proactive and get regular checkups and screenings from your physician, Dr. Smith said. These visits are usually covered by most health insurance plans, which can help monitor for and prevent chronic conditions before they become too serious and require treatment.In fact, the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act has made preventive screenings more available and more affordable than before. Under the act, Medicare and new private-insurance policies are required to either completely or significantly cover the cost of 45 medical tests and services currently shown to be most effective in early disease detection and prevention, such as mammograms, diabetes, colon cancer, prostate cancer and cardiovascular issues. For a complete list covered by Medicare, visithttp://www.medicare.gov/coverage/preventive-and-screening-services.html.Health care plans often provide a number of health and wellness discounts from deals on nutritional supplements to discounts on vision care to help members keep their costs down. For instance, health benefits company Humana Inc. offers its members various deals through its online Savings Center, including discounts for everything from colds to heartburn medications.The key to saving on health care costs and using these tips effectively is planning, Dr. Smith said. It might take a little bit of scheduling to order your medications ahead of time or make an appointment for a screening; however, the payoff, in terms of the impact on both your health and wallet, is worth it.Editors Note: This article was submitted by Humana. For more information on Humanas senior products in Utah call 1-800-884-8328.1 https://www.cms.gov/Research-Statistics-Data-and-Systems/Statistics-Trends-and-Reports/NationalHealthExpendData/NationalHealthAccountsHistorical.html2 http://www.cdc.gov/chronicdisease/resources/publications/AAG/aging.htm3 http://www.gphaonline.org/about/generic-medicines/4 http://www.fda.gov/drugs/resourcesforyou/consumers/questionsanswers/ucm100100.htm5 http://www.cdc.gov/workplacehealthpromotion/businesscase/reasons/rising.html

Why would you want to move to Punta Gorda, Florida? Because you can afford it! Punta Gorda possesses incredible charm and a community rich with history. It is a thriving, small city nestled on the shores of Charlotte Harbor in SW Florida and it is rapidly becoming the IN destination for visitors, residences and businesses alike. Its recently revitalized downtown has cobblestone streets and gas lamp streetlights. The residential area features brick streets lined with huge old royal palms and many old Florida-era tin-roofed homes with wide verandas.Picture 129 square miles of sparkling water, clear sunshine, fishing at its greatest, wildlife in abundance and a casual, friendly atmosphere that appeals to those who are seeking the natural pleasures of life.Punta Gorda is a small town that few know about. Not only is it affordable, but it offers a rich variety of activities for the new demographic of vibrant lifestyle seniors 55 and better. There are many communities in Punta Gorda that fits the retirement budgets of our northern neighbors and they are finding Florida to be an affordable alternative to living up North.Experience Old Florida in the way it was meant to be. It is not just a place to visit in Winter any longer, but a destination you can call home.Editors Note: This article was submitted by Tammy Sperrazza, Marketing Director, Charlotte Crossing 941-347-4040

Have you noticed the recent advertisement of hearing aids that promise to eliminate the bucket-head syndrome associated with wearing hearing aids? These products, often called open-fit or open-ear hearing aids, are one of the new trends in hearing aids. Just like every industry, hearing aid manufacturers are always launching new products and new concepts that intend to improve not only the hearing of the wearer, but also the experience of wearing hearing aids.So whats the buzz with these aids? Open-fit hearing aids are designed with minimal occlusion of the ear canal. This will often reduce or eliminate the plugged up feeling of wearing hearing aids. Because of this, wearers may feel more comfortable wearing hearing aids. Their voice may be more comfortable and they may not hear as many internal sounds like chewing. Since the ear is left essentially open, some sounds are allowed to come in naturally. This will also make the hearing aids sound more natural.Whats the down side? These hearing aids often have a limited fitting range. This means that your hearing loss should fall within a certain range to obtain maximum benefit from this type of product. If your hearing loss is too great, you will not get enough volume to allow you to hearing up to your full potential.Is this type of hearing aid for everyone? Absolutely not! There is no one style of hearing aid that every person can wear to receive maximum improvement of hearing with minimal side-effects. Hearing, hearing loss and the perception of hearing are as unique as you are and the solution to hearing loss should also be unique and customized for you. Receiving care from an educated and caring hearing healthcare professional is the one way to ensure you are wearing a product that will optimally improve your communication ability.This article was submitted by Doctors Hearing Care; they can be reached at (303)377-4777 or email doctorshearingcare@yahoo.com.

Seniors Blue Book ArticleFall 2015 EditionKelle Sweeney, Education Coordinator, Friends in ActionAs a caregiver, you are doing everything in your power to make sure your loved one is well cared for, and youre probably feeling the strain of your efforts: increased frustration, shortened fuse, poor sleep, exhaustion, feeling overwhelmed, high blood-pressure, etc. Respite can help you bring your life back into balance.Respite is a temporary break from your caregiving responsibilities. Respite can take place in your home or in a facility. Respite can be provided by a family member, friend, paid provider, or volunteer. Friends in Action, a nonprofit dedicated to helping family caregivers, recruits and trains volunteers as part of their Legacy Corps program to provide companionship respite for veterans and military families. Legacy Corps volunteers commit to one full year of service (Nov Oct) and deliver compassionate, consistent support to caregivers on a weekly basis, allowing stressed out wives, husbands, daughters, sons, neighbors, and friends to rest and recharge. Entering the 4th year in Idaho, Legacy Corps volunteers have provided a total of 14,000 hours of relief to 191 family caregivers in the Gem State a value of over $250,000.The Idaho Caregiver Alliance (ICA) is another organization focused on providing access to respite for caregivers across the lifespan. The ICA was formed with grant funding from National Lifespan Respite Coalition and is making great strides to ensure that family caregivers in Idaho have the tools and resources they need starting with respite. In 2015 the ICA successfully worked with state law makers to pass House Concurrent Resolution 24 which officially recognizes family caregivers as an integral part of our health system. The ICA is also testing the implementation of an Emergency Respite Program designed to offer support to caregivers when unplanned events or emergencies occur. To learn more about the Emergency Respite program please visit the Idaho Federation of Families for Childrens Mental Health website (www.idahofederation.org) or call (208) 433-8845.You can learn more about respite, caregiver resources, the Legacy Corps program, and the Idaho Caregiver Alliance at the 5th Annual Family Caregiver Conference on February 20, 2016. The Annual Family Caregiver Conference is a partnership with Boise State University to provide caregivers of adults and children with disabilities the resources they need to provide good care for their loved one while taking good care of themselves too.For information on respite, or to learn how you can become a Legacy Corps volunteer and be a hero to a family caregiver, contact Friends in Action at (208) 333-1363.

A few weeks ago I was having lunch with friends and talking about my job at a retirement and assisted living facility. One of the women said, It must be so sad when children bring their parents and theyre just not ready to be there. I thought a minute and said, That never happens. If they're not ready, they get in their car, drive back to their home, call the movers to have the furniture put back, and then they get in their car and go play golf. People never come too early. On the flip side, they wait too long all the time. So when is the right time to come? she asked. That made me think for a while, and these are, in David Letterman's vernacular, the top ten reasons you know its time to move to an assisted living or retirement community.1. You are isolated. For whatever reason you are not getting out of your house, are not spending time with other people, and are spending almost all of your time by yourself.2. Your house or apartment has become dangerous, either because of the way the house is built, or because of your ability to maneuver around the house. In other words, the house has become a trap, waiting to make you fall.3. Caring for you has become such a burden to family or friends, that it has started to seriously disrupt all of their lives.4. You are not able to make or obtain nourishing meals for yourself.5. You are not able to keep up your house and don't feel comfortable having people come in regularly, and you are unable to find someone who can help.6. You are not able to do bathing, dressing, or basic grooming, and you are unable to find someone who can help with this.7. You are not able to take your medications, even after all possible systems have been tried.8. Your over-all quality of life is deteriorating and could be made better with more help.9. You can feel yourself going downhill and want to move to a community where there is help before something happens and while you still have choices.10. You have friends who love it, you have visited them, and it seems like a great lifestyle for you.Editors Note: This article was submitted by Ginny E. Echevarria, Marketing Director at Highland Cove Retirement. During the 10 years she has been there, she estimates she's worked with close to 9,000 families. Ginny may be reached at 801.272.8226, by email at gechevarria@centurypa.com or visit the website www.highlandcove.com

Back pain is a common problem that affects at least 75 to 85 percent of Americans at some point in their lifetime. The causes of back pain vary, but are most often due to muscle strains, accidents, or injuries; other causes are related to lifestyle factors. If you are suffering from chronic back pain, these helpful tips may provide some relief.Get a good nights sleep.Did you know a lack of quality sleep can worsen back pain? To help keep your back in alignment, invest in a comfortably firm mattress. You may also want to try different sleeping positions, such as lying on your side or placing a pillow under or between your knees.Exercise regularly.When suffering from back pain, exercise has been found to effectively reduce or alleviate symptoms. In addition, strengthening your back muscles helps support your spine. Get moving with slow, gentle exercises - such as swimming, walking, or yoga - and increase your pace or intensity if possible.Maintain a healthy weight.One of the best ways to avoid back pain is to keep off those extra pounds and maintain a healthy weight. In addition to regular exercise, eat a healthy diet full of fruits and vegetables, and low on sugar and processed foods.Stretch to improve flexibility.Regular stretching - such as before bed, exercising, playing sports, or heaving lifting - is key to staying flexible and avoiding back pain. Simple stretches, such as bending side to side or bending forward, can improve blood circulation to the back muscles and reduce injury.Practice good posture.Poor posture, especially if you sit for long periods of time, can cause back pain or make it worse. Avoid slouching or slumping over your keyboard. Instead, remind yourself to sit up straight and keep your shoulders relaxed. If you dont have an ergonomic chair for the office, try putting a pillow behind your lower back for extra support.Apply heat or cold.If you suffer from muscle spasms, cramps, or back strain, heat therapy (such as with a heating pad) can help provide some relief. Additionally, regular applications of cold therapy (using ice packs) can help reduce swelling and inflammation. Try either therapy several times a day for about 20 minutes.In the majority of cases, back pain gets better with non-surgical methods. However, back pain can be a symptom of other underlying issues that may require medication, physical therapy, or even surgery.If you suffer from persistent back pain, Coastal Orthopedics is here to help. Our orthopedic specialists are committed to developing the right treatment options best suited for each patient so that they can get back to living life.Written & Submitted By: Coastal Orthopedics- Click here for more information*

Skin cancer has reached epidemic proportions with the incidence of nonmelanoma skin cancer up 300% since 1994. Annually there are more new cases of skin cancer than the combined incidence of breast, prostate, lung and colon cancer. Given the gravity of this epidemic, seniors may find themselves asking, how do I recognize skin cancer and what can I do about it?What is skin cancer?The three most common forms of skin cancer are: Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC), Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC), and Malignant Melanoma (MM).Although BCC and SCC are rarely fatal, they can be quite disfiguring if they are not detected and treated early. Malignant melanoma kills approximately8,790 people in the US annually and early diagnosis and treatment are essential to ensure the best outcomes.What can I do to prevent, detect and treat skin cancer?Being aware of your own skin is an important measure to aid in early detection and treatment of skin cancer. A monthly self-skin examination has been shown to reduce the risk of melanoma. Suspicious lesions should be evaluated by a dermatologist or other medical provider. Learn how to perform a self-skin examination here:http://www.aad.org/spot-skin-cancer/understanding-skin-cancer/how-do-i-check-my-skin/how-to-perform-a-self-examWhat to look for.-An existing mole that has changes: Asymmetry Border that becomes irregular Color that becomes varied Diameter larger than the head of a pencil eraser Evolution or changeOr.-A sore that does not heal-Any lesion that changes-A new lesion on the skinWhat should I do if I am concerned?A regular (often yearly) recurring full body skin examination performed by a dermatologist or other health care provider, regular use of sun block, sun protective clothing, and sun protective behavior (including sun avoidance and seeking shade) are essential additional important protective measures.If you have any questions at all, it is advisable to seek personal advice from a health care provider. At Swinyer-Woseth Dermatology we value your questions and would be happy to help you in any way.Editors Note: This article was submitted by Angela Brimhall, D.O., FAOCD,.Dr. Brimhall is a Dermatologist with Swinyer-Woseth Dermatologywww.dwoseth.com and may be reached at 801-266-8841

Services include realtors specializing in the senior housing and relocation market. Some may have the Senior Real Estate Specialist (SRES) designation. They are familiar with the current real estate market and can offer assistance to seniors wishing to downsize and move to senior-oriented housing.#listing_mgr{7 basic_search}#

Know a stroke survivor with shoulder pain? Its a common complaint, and a major source of anxiety for survivors and caregivers alike. Shoulder pain affects stroke survivors independence and long-term quality of life. Yet, survivors often struggle to have their pain adequately addressed. The following is a discussion of 2 frequent contributors to shoulder pain in stroke survivors, how to recognize them, and potential methods of treatment.Contributor 1: Physical injury. Physical damage to the shoulder can pre-date stroke, but may also occur due to accidental mishandling/poor positioning of the limb. Stroke survivors commonly experience changes in muscle tone, sensation, or both. Structures that are too loose or tight can easily become torn or injured.Signs of physical injury: Pain can be pin-pointed. May be triggered with a specific movement, activity, or position. Pain quality may be sharp, sudden, throbbing, or achy.Contributor 2: Central Pain Syndrome (CPS). CPS is pain resulting from damage to the brain, rather than damage to the shoulder. The stroke survivor perceives pain, but no physical injury is present. This DOES NOT mean that the pain the person feels is not real. CPS is as real as any pain felt following injury to the body.Signs of CPS: Pain is harder to pin-point. May be constant. May be triggered by gentle touch. Pain quality may be numb, tingly, burning, aching, or sharp.IMPORTANT: The symptoms for each type of pain are not always straight-forward. Both types of pain CAN exist simultaneously. So, what can be done?For pain due to physical injury, the injury must be treated. Depending on available shoulder movement, treatment might include targeted exercise, stretching, manual therapy, task/environmental adaptation, positioning, and modalities.For pain due to CPS, methods such as mirror therapy, meditation, and sensory re-education might be used. Because pain causes are complex, experienced therapists use a customized combination of methods to achieve the best results.Whatever underlies pain, its imperative that the survivor be treated with compassion and empathy. Easing painful shoulders after stroke requires a high level of skill. Showing you care is easy, and can also provide welcome relief. Author, Emilia Bourland, is an occupational therapist and the owner of AIPC Therapy, a mobile therapy practice serving the greater DFW area. You can contact her by calling 469-998-1245 or sending an e-mail to emilia.bourland@aipctherapy.com

Reverse mortgages are designed for adults 62 and over who own their own home and wish to access their home's equity while retaining ownership. These programs are government insured and can provide tax-free cash on a monthly basis. Reverse mortgages allow elders to access thehome equitythey have built up in their homes now, and defer payment of the loan until they die, sell, or move out of the home. Because there are no required mortgage payments on a reverse mortgage, theinterestis added to the loan balance each month. The rising loan balance can eventually grow to exceed the value of the home, particularly in times of declining home values or if the borrower continues to live in the home for many years. However, the borrower (or the borrower's estate) is generally not required to repay any additional loan balance in excess of the value of the home.#listing_mgr{7 basic_search}#

Every day patients are discharged to the home setting in need of additional supportive services to ensure a complete recovery from an illness, injury or surgery. Home health care agencies assist patients with understanding and complying with the medical treatment plan ordered by their physician. Patients who receive self-care management education along with involvement by family members and caregivers typically experience better health outcomes and greater satisfaction with their post-hospital care.Telehealth monitoring can improve the communication between patient, home health agency staff and the physician by collecting vital information and clinical data on a daily basis. Telehealth combines advanced communication technology and health monitoring equipment to gather and transmit patient data, such as blood pressure and heart rate from the patients home, allowing earlier intervention by health care providers when problems develop.Many older patients are confronted later in life with chronic medical conditions which can be challenging and sometimes unstable. Hospitalizations occur and patients are displaced from the familiar surroundings of their home when their chronic illness becomes unmanageable at home. Early discharge from the hospital and poor understanding of the discharge instructions for post-hospital care can precipitate another hospitalization or a visit to the emergency room. Telehealth monitoring can eliminate unnecessary and unscheduled visits to the doctors office or to the emergency room. The information is received daily and early warning signs are monitored by a nurse and addressed immediately. Daily monitoring and early intervention supports the patients desire to be cared for at home while maintaining control of their chronic illness and preventing adverse outcomes. Patients can actively participate in their plan of care and can check their vital signs are often as they desire. Patient compliance with their treatment plan improves and their physician can rely on objective clinical data to make adjustments in their treatment plan. Patients may discuss home monitoring with their physician.Which chronic illnesses can benefit from home Telehealth monitoring?Congestive Heart Failure Hypertension PneumoniaCoronary Artery Disease Coronary Bypass AnginaAngioplasty Stroke (CVA) DiabetesValve replacement Emphysema Heart blockNurses are specially trained in Telehealth monitoring and assessment of patients for appropriateness of Telehealth monitoring. Hospital grade equipment is used to gather clinical data to support patient care at home. Home health agencies which offer this sophisticated home monitoring system improve the quality of care their patients receive and decrease the likelihood the patient will experience an unnecessary re-admission to the hospital. Editors Note: This article was submitted by Mary Gardner, MPH, RN. Mary is the Vice President of Business Development for Community Nursing Services Home Health & Hospice and may be reached at (801) 233-6100 or at mary.gardner@cns-cares.org.

Everyone grieves differently.Grieving is a very personal and highly individual experience. How you grieve depends on many factors, including your personality and coping style, your life experience, your faith and the nature of the loss. The grieving process takes time. Healing happens gradually; it cant be forced or hurried. There is no normal timetable for grieving. Some people start to feel better in weeks or months while others it takes years. Whatever your grief experience, its important to be patient with yourself and allow the process to naturally unfold.The following misconceptions and beliefs are prevalent in our culture and reflect a misunderstanding of the grief process. Absolute statements mistakenly attempt to provide information for how grief is experienced and result in hindering rather than helping people through their grief.Time takes care of everythingThe pain will go away faster if you ignore itIts important to be strong in the face of lossIf you dont cry, it means you arent sorry about the lossGrief lasts six months to a yearGrief always brings family togetherYou can grieve too muchThe five grief responses are:Denial: This cant be happening to me.Anger: Why is this happening to me? Who is to blame?Bargaining: Make this not happen and in return I willDepression: Im too sad to do anything.Acceptance: Im at peace with what happened.If you are experiencing any of these emotions following a loss, know that your reaction is natural and keep in mind that not everyone who grieves goes through all of these stages. These are not stops on some linear timeline. Some people resolve their grief without going through any of these stages. Contrary to popular belief you do not have to go through every stage to heal. Dont worry about what you should be feeling or which stage youre supposed to be in at any particular time.The grieving process is as individual as our lives. Whatever your grief experience, its important to be patient with yourself and allow the process to unfold naturally. Editors Note: This article based on content from the CNS bereavement program and was submitted by Kimberly Dansie, HFA, MBA. She serves as Vice President of Business Development with Community Nursing Services (CNS) & may be reached at (801) 639-5433 or by e-mail at kimberly.dansie@cnscares.org

People often say, If you dont use it, you lose it This phrase certainly pertains to brain function. As with any part of the body, the brain can atrophy if it isnt exercised. The best cognitive workout is hearing, which may seem simple enough but actually involves various portions of the brain that influence our memories, perception, and communication.At Better Hearing at Home, Dr. Anne Reap is trained to treat all types of hearing issues including the connection between hearing loss and dementia. Her intensive training coupled with her in depth study of how the brain processes sound has helped serve her patients well for more than 28 years.When hearing loss becomes a reality, the connection between our brains and our ears is often forgotten. Unfortunately, those patients with undiagnosed or untreated hearing loss increase their risk of physical complications or mental and emotional struggles. According to the Better Hearing Institute, numerous studies link unmanaged hearing loss to a wide range of physical and emotional conditions, including depression, impaired memory, compromised ability to learn new tasks, and the increased risk of personal safety.Hearing loss can impact the lifestyles and relationships of those individuals with dementia, negatively impacting their well-being and leaving loved ones and care-givers to wonder, whether communication and memory issues are due to dementia OR hearing loss??? Confusion surrounding dementia can worsen over time, but it is possible to break the cycle with the appropriate hearing care by a trained doctor of Audiology.Dr. Reap understands that individual needs are unique and treatment plans must be personalized in order to be effective. At Better Hearing at Home, we will work with you to insure that you and your loved ones can reach hearing and lifestyle goals. Remember, early intervention and treatment provides the best possible outcome. Dont wait, better hearing can make all the difference.Editors Note: This article was submitted byBetter Hearing at Home - Dr. Anne Reap500 West Putnam Avenue, Suite 300Greenwich, CT 06830www.betterhearingathome.com203 542-7323

For more information on the author, Good Life Healing Center, CLICK HERE!For over 20 years, Acupuncture has been recommended by both the National Institute of Health and The World Health Organization for over 90 health conditions.Most major health insurance providers offer plans that cover acupuncture treatment, including the Veterans Administration (VA).In July 2020 Acupuncture was added as afirst-time trial to the list of covered services for Medicare and MedicareAdvantage plans. Medicarebeneficiaries are eligiblefor up to 20treatments per year. Most recently, on July 29,2021, HR4803 Acupuncture for Our Seniors Act was submitted to the House ofRepresentatives. When approved, acupuncturists will bepermanently classified as Medicare Providers, makingthis effective treatment universally available to all Medicare beneficiaries.

With the Medicare annual election period right around the corner its that time again when your mailboxes will be filled with fliers and ads from every insurance company you have heard of and some you may not have heard of; but the question is? What do I need to know?Oct. 1st - This is the time when brokers and insurance company representatives can tell you about their plans details, but no selling allowed!Oct. 15th thru Dec. 7th AEP, is the election period in which a Medicare beneficiary may shop around and make a change to their current MAPD plan, which stands for Medicare Advantage plan (HMO or PPO type Plan) with Prescription Drugs, or they may elect a plan for the first time if they hadnt done so previously. If a beneficiary is on a Medicare supplement and a stand-alone Part D drug plan, they may change their plan to a MAPD plan and vice-versa. It is important to know that the last plan you enroll in is the plan that will be in affect for Jan. 1st.Jan. 1st thru Feb. 14th is also an election period called the Medicare Advantage Disenrollment period. This period is a time where a beneficiary who has a MAPD plan can switch from the MAPD and go back to Original Medicare with a Medicare supplement and a Part D Rx Plan. Coverage would start on the first of the following month.How to pick a plan? What company? $100 vs $0 premiums?Words of advice: Be sure to find a plan your doctors accept, and make sure all your prescriptions are covered. Find a broker who represents all the companies who offer MAPD plans, and multiple Medicare Supp. plans so you can have choices.When shopping for MAPD plans take careful notice of your Out Of Pocket Maximum, this is the part where during one calendar year it is the most you are responsible for paying in co-payments and co-insurances for the medical expenses covered by your plan. Prescription co-pays and co-insurances have their own guidelines. Supplement or Medigap Plans vs. MAPD plans?Medigap supplement plans are going to run around $220 a month in premium but have little or no co-pays or coinsurance during the year for qualified Medicare expenses not fully covered by Original Medicare.Medigap plans do not have prescription coverage but must be purchased separately for around $25 to $45 a month.MAPD plans will have a co-pays for doctors and hospital visits and typically will have a network, so it is very important that you check with your doctors to make sure they except the plans. A plan that has no premium will have a larger out of pocket maximum, and a MAPD plan that has a $100 premium will have less of an out of pocket maximum.Can I get some help paying for all this?The answer is YES: Its called the Medicare Savings Program.If you are married and make under $3266 a month in income, or $2413 as a single, you will no longer have to pay the Part B premium that is deducted from your Social Security Check every month, and you will also get Prescription help.Paying less than $7 dollars a month for brand named drugs, and about $2 dollars for generics.If you make below 2,069.11 as a single and $2,802.08 as a couple, you are also entitled to extra benefits that will help you with co-payments and co-insurances in hospitals and doctor visits.More info can be found on the following information on Www.figlarinsurance.com, www.medicare.gov, and www.ct.govThis article was submitted byMarc Figlar, Certified Senior AdvisorMarc can be reached at 203-394-3447

Annually, from October 15 December 7, Medicare holds what is known as Open Enrollment. During Open Enrollment, you are able to switch from Traditional Medicare to an Advantage Medicare Plan, from one Advantage Medicare Plan to another, as well as make changes to your Medicare Part D plan which is your Prescription Plan.As a Medical Social Worker and Care Transitions Manager, I have received many questions on what are the differences between Traditional Medicare and Advantage Medicare Plans.First and foremost, knowledge and education, along with understanding your benefits is key to managing your Healthcare. Before signing up for an Advantage Medicare and Medicare Part D Plan please review your policy benefits in detail and sign up for the insurance that best fits your Healthcare Needs.Traditional Medicare is available to all Americans 65 years or older who have worked and paid into Social Security. With Traditional Medicare you will have a Red, White and Blue insurance Card with your Social Security number and a letter A. However if you receive your Medicare Benefits through your spouse it maybe a different number with a different letter.With Traditional Medicare you as member can choose your own Doctor and Healthcare care plan. There are No Referrals, No Pre-Authorizations, No Hidden Cost andNo Restrictions. When choosing Traditional Medicare you will also need to choose a Supplemental Plan along with Medicare Part D for your prescriptions.Advantage Medicare is available to all members who have Traditional Medicare. Examples of Advantage Medicare Plans are Humana, Care Improvements Plan, and HealthSpring. These Advantage Medicare Plans essentially Manage your Traditional Medicare. The Advantage Medicare Plan choses your Healthcare Care Plan based on the Medical Necessity and the Healthcare Plans benefits and approval. The Advantage Medicare also includes your Medicare Part D plan and Supplemental Plan. The Insurance will offer one stop shop for Medicare. The Advantage Medicare may have Restricted Physician Referrals, Upfront CoPays for Hospitalization, require Pre-Authorizations and Limited Coverage.Choosing a Healthcare Plan can be confusing. It is important to understand your Healthcare plan and your Healthcare needs. As a Medical Social Worker, Piece by Piece Care Management is available to assist you in understanding your Healthcare needs and help you choose a Healthcare Plan that best fits you. We look forward to hearing from you.Editors Note: Submitted by Christina Curtis, LBSW, Care Manager at Piece by Piece Care Management, LLC. Christina may be reached at 469-631-5110 or www.piecebypiececaremanagement.com

People tend to put off accessing hospice care because it represents a life-altering shift: acknowledging that a disease in its advanced form will not be cured and that time is limited.As hospice providers, fellow mortals and Americans, we understand the hesitation.Yet when a physician says, There isnt any more we can do, hospice says, Theres so much more we can do. When a patient receives a number related to prognosis, we say its time to make every day count.Hospice provides a symphony of care, conducted by the patient and family, to promote the best possible quality of life. A team of accomplished providers physicians, nurses, nurses aides, social workers, chaplains and volunteers work in concert for the good of the patient and family.Through expert pain and symptom management, help and support, patients feel better. Many outlive their prognosis. Living with unresolved pain or distressing symptoms (physical, emotional or existential), takes a tremendous toll. The hospice team serves to relive burdens so patients and family can focus on whats most important to them: savoring a favorite meal, writing a memoir or expressing thoughts toward those they love (or in some cases, dont).What hospice providers hear most from patients and family is, We wish wed found you sooner. We see the relief with each step of the journey, and we watch with awe as patients and families create their own last movement. Theres humor, love, forgiveness, joy; high notes and bass notes; the sacred and the unorthodox, the beautiful and absurd: the elements of life, lived.If you or someone you love qualifies for hospice, please dont hesitate. The sooner a provider can care, the more they can help. Hospice care is covered by Medicare, Medicaid and most private insurance. More information can be found at: www.agape-healthcare.comEditors Note: This article was submitted by Kelly Bastian, FNP-C, Managing Director of Agape Hospice & Palliative Care. Kelly may be reached at: 720-482-1988.

Most people go through life and do not often think about planning for the future and what that might look like. Oftentimes, when people finally get around to planning, they dont take the necessary time to truly understand the intricacies and the consequences of decisions but rather want to get something done for the sake of being done.An individual with a disability who is receiving public benefits from the government cannot receive an outright inheritance or they will lose their entitlement to their government benefits. However, many parents do not completely understand this concept and since they have three children, theyre going to provide for their children equally regardless. It is imperative if you have a child with a disability or special needs that you seek expert counsel in order to fully understand what the implications of giving money outright to that individual could be now and in the future.It is very easy and straightforward to be able to provide for an individual with a disability by placing money in a special needs trust. This will allow that individual to continue to receive the money from the parent but also receive the government benefits that theyre currently getting. This is my example of having your cake and eating it too. While not necessarily overly difficult, it is essential that you work with an estate planning and elder law attorney who does special needs trust on a regular basis. There are many easy pitfalls that someone can fall into and it is easy to make a mistake in this arena. If you have a special needs child, please take the time to fully understand how you can protect that individual and the inheritance in the future as well as still provide them any government benefits that they may be entitled to.If you would like to learn more about special needs trust planning, please contact the office at 717-844-9218, to learn more about our workshop for families with individuals with disabilities and how to plan for them. We look forward to seeing you in the future.

The mission of the PA Link to Aging and Disability Resources is to improve access to long term services and supports for individuals, their loved ones and caregivers, regardless of age, income, or ability, through an integrated network of partner agencies committed to expanding the use of community based solutions, promoting person centered decision making, and enhancing the quality of services. PA Link provides a myriad of services including: Person-Centered Counseling (PCC)- Designed to help consumers navigate the vast array of Long Term Services and Supports options. Based on an individuals needs, preferences, values, and strengths with a focus on an individuals prioritized goals. Information + Referral/Assistance-No Wrong Door access ensuring that linkages to appropriate services and programs are provided with minimal confusion to the individual. Benefits Counseling and Application Assistance-Connections to services and supports and streamlined access to public programs. Partnership Development / Trainings / Cross Trainings-Opportunity for staff to network, share ideas and best practices. Providing free or low-cost trainings to increase knowledge and skill sets of agency staff. Community Outreach and Education- Increase awareness of PA Link partner services through partner newsletters, health fairs and expos, and various media sources. Person-Centered Transition Support- Transitions between systems, programs, settings and life stages, such as nursing home transition, youth transition and military reintegration. Quality Assurance- Collection of data vital for programming, grant preparation and service system improvements.To contact the PA Link just call 1-800-753-8827Editors Note: This article was submitted by Ginger Monsted. Ginger is the Link Cumberland Coordinator and Service Area 9 Coordinator.

To learn more aboutSalt Lake Behavioral Health,CLICK HERE.Experiencing psychosis can indicate a more severe mental health problem. Psychosis can include experiencing hallucinations (seeing, feeling, hearing or tasting things that other people dont) or persistent, unusual thoughts or beliefs that other people do not believe or understand. These thoughts or beliefs can result in feelings of paranoia, that external forces are controlling a persons mind or actions, or that others want to cause harm. It can also be the belief that you have special powers.Psychosis can result in difficulty functioning normally and may require professional medical intervention. If you or someone you know may be struggling with psychosis, seek help. Recovery is possible with medical treatment.

To learn more about Welcome Home Assisted Living,CLICK HERE.Our patients and families have a choice when selecting a facility. Our quality care and services define our organization. We anticipate, listen to, and own the concerns of our patients, families, and healthcare partners.We will provide care in an unbiased manner that demonstrates respect for individual, cultural, and religious differences. We educate ourselves on the unique beliefs and values of various groups to better serve the patient and family.The issues involved in healthcare can pose many challenges. We will not compromise our values in the delivery of care or in any aspect of our operations.We are committed to open communication. We feel that direct and honest communication to patient and family provides a realistic understanding in each situation.Our people make us who we are. By providing an environment that promotes continuing education and reduces job stress, we are able to retain our excellent employees.We will be fiscally responsible to ensure the stability of our organization and to allow us the freedom needed to achieve our mission and vision.

It was June 23, 2005, on my 39th birthday and we were in the office of A.A.C Adoption & Family Network in Berthoud, Colorado with my two boys ages 6 and 7 and my husband. We were looking into adopting a girl when I got a call from my sister: Mom has had a massive stroke and she is in the intensive care unit. She had an occipital stroke, meaning her short-term memory and vision were badly affected. This is how my journey of home care started. I was devastated, afraid and helpless. What was I going to do? I knew that she would not be able to live on her own anymore. Mom stayed in the hospital and after a month and half she would have to be released either to a nursing home or a place that provided 24/7 care. My brother and I signed up to take that journey together: we brought mom home.The first 6 months were devastating. We could not find quality caregivers or the right agency. We did not have anyone to learn about their experiences. There were no classes, manual or training on taking care of your elderly parents. There were not enough resources available back then. But we did not give up! Taking care of our mom taught us how to be patient, how to be strong, and how to believe in ourselves. Our mom lived a fabulous life in the comfort of our home and with the help of wonderful caregivers that we ended up finding on our own for the next nine and half years. Our mom passed away on January 16, 2014, living the best quality of life and loving care that she could have her stroke.Ever Since mom passed away I have been thinking about helping others by sharing my experience and passion. That is why I joined Amber Personal Care. It has been my mission to bring the same quality of care to Amber Personal Care. I am here to share with you my experience, love and passion for taking care of your loved ones. Visit our website at:www.amberpersonalcare.comEditors Note; This article was submitted by Sophia Sarvestani Akrami, with Amber Personal Care. She may be reached at 303-718-1825 or by email at: info@amberpersonalcare.com

This program is a partnership between Iowa Vocational Rehabilitation (IVERS) and Connections Area Agency on Aging. You must have an open case with IVRS to be referred to our Employment Specialist.Our Older Worker Employment Specialist works with adults age 55 and older who have a verified disability and are working with Vocational Rehabilitation Services. Their disability is a barrier to finding or obtaining employment. The Older Worker Employment Specialist's role is to work with Job Candidates to identify barriers and work towards their job goal. In the process of working with Job Candidate, the Job Candidate receives help to build on job-seeking skills, completing applications, practice with role play for interviews, creating resumes, and contacting employers.Our Older Worker Employment Specialist also networks with local employers and businesses within the 20 counties served by Connections, sharing information about the program as well as identifying jobs, and matching Job Candidates with jobs/employers for the best fit - always advocating for businesses to hire work-ready candidates.The goal of the program is to secure and main successful job placement of each Job Candidate, working with both the employee and employer. The Older Worker Employment Specialist works during this time to help the Job Candidate learn about the job and provide mentoring as necessary. Contact is made at least twice per month by phone, email, face to face visits, etc. depending on individual need. Once placement is made and the Job Candidate is confident in the position (90 day time frame) they are closed successfully with IVRS but OWEP will provide follow along for 1 year!Older workers bring experience, skills and lifelong knowledge into the workplace, making them valued, work-ready employees.Eligibility CriteriaOlder Worker Employment Program QualifiersMust be age 55 and olderMust have a disability that is a barrier to employmentIs off the Vocational Rehabilitation waiting listDoes not required Supported Employment ServicesIs not currently working with a Senior Corps Senior Employment Program (SCSEP) such as Experience Works, AARP, Senior Services of AmericaJob Candidate ProcessThe Job Candidate comes off of the waiting listThe Job Candidate's information is reviewed for the Older Worker Employment Program qualifiersThe Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor completes and sends the referral packet information to the Older Worker Employment SpecialistThe Employment Specialist will contact the Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor to schedule a meeting with the Job Candidate and the Counselor.The Older Worker Employment Specialist RoleThe Older Worker Employment Specialist assists Job Candidates in the following ways:Completing various vocational assessments and identifying a job role.Enhancing job seeking skills, completing applications, preparing for interviewing, writing resumes, and contacting employers.Working with employers to create positions that may be otherwise difficult to fill.Matching positions with the expectations of the employer and with the skills and abilities of the Job Candidate in mind.Advocating with businesses to hire work-ready job candidates.Helping employers identify job-ready candidates in an effective manner and offer options for hard to fill positions.Tracking and ensuring training of job candidates who are newly hired, so that they become familiar with and understand the workplace culture, expectations, and how to handle situations on the job.Discussing how the job candidate is adjusting to the new job and providing guidance as needed.Providing follow-up contact for up to one year after an individual is stable in employment.Establishing successful and effective networks of connections with business customers and the Aging Network.Communication and collaborating with Iowa Vacation Rehabilitation Service (IVRS) staff to provide assistance to job candidates.Informing the IVRS Counselor of the job candidates 'progress at least twice per month and sending case notes on a monthly basis.Article Submitted by Connections Area Agency on Aging

To learn more about AccentCare Hospice, CLICK HEREWhat are some common post-op discomforts?The amount of discomfort you have after surgery depends on many things, includingthe type of surgery. Typical discomforts may include:Nausea and vomiting from general anesthesiaSore throat caused by the tube placed in the windpipe for breathing during surgerySoreness, pain,and swelling around the incision site or minor pain around IV sitesRestlessness and sleeplessnessThirstConstipation and gasWhat complications may occur after surgery?Complications can sometimes occur after surgery. The most common complications include:ShockShock is a severe drop in blood pressure that causes adangerous slowing of blood flow throughout the body. Shock may be caused by blood loss, infection, spine injury, or metabolic problems. Treatment may include any or all of the following:Stopping any blood lossHelping with breathing. This might be with a breathing machine.Reducing heat lossGiving IV fluids or bloodGiving extra oxygenPrescribing medicines to help raise blood pressure.BleedingRapid blood loss from the site of surgery, for example, can lead to shock. Treatment of rapid blood loss may include:IV fluids or blood plasmaBlood transfusionMore surgery to control the bleedingWound infectionWhen bacteria enter the site of surgery, an infection can happen. Infections can delay healing. Wound infections can spread to nearby organs or tissue, or to distant areas through the bloodstream. Treatment of wound infections may include:AntibioticsSurgery or procedure to clean or drain the infected areaDeep vein thrombosisA deep vein thrombosis is a blood clot in a large vein deep inside a leg, arm, or other part of the body. Symptoms are pain, swelling, tenderness, and skin redness in a leg, arm, or other area. If you have these symptoms, call your healthcare provider. In some cases, the clot can break off and travel to the lungs or brain. This can cause a pulmonary embolism or a stroke. Compression stockings are often used for treatment. They can also prevent DVTs.Pulmonary embolismThe clot can break away from the vein and travel to the lungs. This clot is called a pulmonary embolism. In the lungs, the clot can cut off the flow of blood. This is a medical emergency and may cause death. If you have the following symptoms, call 911 or get emergency help right away. Symptoms are chest pain, trouble breathing, coughing (may cough up blood), sweating, very low blood pressure, fast heartbeat, light headedness, and fainting. Treatment depends on the location and size of the blood clot. It may include:Blood-thinner medicines (anticoagulants) to prevent more clotsThrombolytic medicines to dissolve clotsSurgery or other procedures to remove the clotLung problemsSometimes lung problems happen because you dont do deep breathing and coughing exercises within 48 hours of surgery. They may also happen from pneumonia or from inhaling food, water, or blood into the airways. Symptoms may include wheezing, chest pain, shortness of breath, fever, and cough. Getting up and walking around, deep breathing, and coughing often can help reduce the chances for these problems. Treatment depends on the lung problem and the cause.Urinary retentionThis means you arent able to empty your bladder. This may be caused by the anesthesia or certain surgeries. It is often treated by using a thin tube (catheter) to drain the bladder. This is kept in place until you have regained bladder control. Sometimes medicines to stimulate the bladder may be given.Reaction to anesthesiaThis is rare, but it does happen. Symptoms can range from mild to severe. Treatment of allergic reactions includes stopping specific medicines that may be causing the reaction. You may also be given other medicines to treat the allergy. Tell your healthcare team about any allergies you have before the surgery to minimize this risk. If an allergic reaction does occur, ask what caused the allergy so you can stay away from it for any future surgery.

If you have recently become a person with a disability, a temporary limitation from surgery or injury, or youre a senior and realize your driving skills have declined over the years, dont self-diagnose about the type of adaptive equipment you may need. Follow these simple steps to find the correct equipment to keep you independent:Step 1: Start with yourphysicianand discuss your concerns. They will diagnose your problem and may recommend visiting a specialized occupational therapist trained on adaptive mobility equipment called a Certified Driver Rehabilitation Specialist(CDRS).A CDRS evaluates your skills, restrictions and abilities to decide if youll be able to drive with vehicle modifications and adaptive equipment. Determining your unique needs allows for the correct equipment to be installed.Step 2: Find your nearest National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association(NMEDA) Certified Shop. This is very important. Modifying your vehicle will likely change safety features, functionality and structural makeup. Making sure you use a NMEDA shop ensures all safety and installation guidelines are followed and that warranties will be upheld. ANY shop trying to install adaptive equipment without these certifications is in violation of National Transportation Regulations. This can put you at risk and liable for any injury caused to you or someone else.Step 3: Relax and trust your team! The great thing about a NMEDA Certified Shop is that they will work hand in hand with your CDRS to make sure you get the best fit in equipment. No matter if it is hand controls, chair ramps, lifts, restraints or something else, they will also train you on proper use and help direct you to agencies that may help with the cost of installation and maintenance. They are there for YOU and are dedicated to helping you along the way.When you decide youre ready to explore the options of accessible equipment or purchase a van, consult with your nearest NMEDA Dealer and they will help you get started.Editors Note: Brought to you by Mobility Driven, your closest NMEDA dealer between Salt Lake and Denver. Call (970)712-1435

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Many of our everyday decisions about healthcare are limited by factors such as cost, insurance coverage or a list of pre-approved providers.But we really do have a choice when selecting a hospice provider. VITAS Healthcare, the nations leading provider of hospice care, offers this checklist to help with one of lifes most meaningful decisions. Explore hospice options. Identify hospice providers in your area and ask about details for comparison. Ask about coverage. What sources of payment do they accept, and what is covered (e.g., medications, home medical equipment)? Explore different types of hospice care. Does the hospice bring care to the patients home? How often do hospice team members visit? VITAS offers all four levels of Medicare-mandated hospice care: routine home care, continuous care at home, inpatient care and respite care. Ask about hospice expertise. Do members of the hospice team have hospice credentials or special training? Is the hospice care team able to meet a range of patient needs, based on diagnosis, disease, culture, language, endof-life wishes, military service, LGBTQ status and other factors? Research education and after-hours care. Does the hospice team educate the family and caregivers on caring for a loved one at home? Is after-hours support available? VITAS is available 24/7/365 to answer questions and dispatch a team member to the bedside when needed. Inquire about bereavement and grief support. How does the team prepare family members and caregivers for a patients death? How long does grief support last? Ask about volunteers. Hospice volunteers can help with tasks ranging from companionship and personal care to neighborhood excursions and life-story journaling. For 40 years, VITAS has worked to ensure that terminally ill patients and their families have immediate access to compassionate and high-quality end-of-life care, including services that range from home visits by a registered nurse or aide to music and massage therapy, pet visits and outings of the patients choosing.Learning about end-of-life care options can transform a challenging time into a comfortable experience.Editors Note: Article submitted by: Cathy Carlson, VITAS Healthcare General Manager For more information about hospice care or your end-of-life care options, call VITAS Healthcare at 866.759.6695 or visitVITAS. com.

At the end of life, every patient has different needs, goals and wishes. When that patient is a veteran, providing appropriate care requires insight into the challenges they face throughout life, not only at its end.VITAS Healthcare, the nations leading provider of end-of-life care, understands that veterans of the US Armed Forces face life-shaping experiences throughout their military careers: Rigorous training, long deployments away from loved ones and the experience of combat all test the limits of the human body and mind.The physical, mental and emotional scars of these experiences may linger long after a veterans service ends, and their needs at the end of life can be severe and varied. Since 1978, VITAS has had the honor of meeting those needs.VITAS employs specialized admissions personnel and representatives with military experience to help patients nearing the end of life understand how hospice can help. Once a veteran is receiving care from VITAS, these veteran liaisons ensure the patient has access to every benefit to which theyre entitled.The best way to honor veterans is to let them know that we care, and were here to support them, says a VITAS representative and decorated veteran. Out of 22 million veterans, only 8 million are enrolled in the VA. The key is getting the word out.VITAS in Chicago participates in We Honor Veterans (WHV), a program developed by the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization and the Department of Veteran Affairs (VA) to improve care for vets in hospice. VITAS also shows veterans how much their service is valued through special events, activities and memorials, including trips to the Washington, DC, war memorials via the Honor Flight Network.VITAS offers many other services for retired military personnel, from pinning ceremonies to challenge coin presentations. Support groups for veterans and their families are also available. Sometimes, all a veteran needs is a conversation with someone who knows what they have been through.Editors Note: Article submitted by Cathy Carlson, general manager for VITAS Healthcare in Chicago. For more information about end-of-life care options, call VITAS Healthcare at 866.759.6695 or visit VITAS.com.

While LTCC's are not cheap, they may still be less expensive than living at home when all things are considered. The options for paying for a LTCC include:Private Pay - your income and liquidized assets (annuities, IRAs, etc.), help from family members and veterans benefits (see below).Long Term Care Insurance (LTCI) - if you purchased LTCI, it can be used for certain in-home care and LTCC costs. There are monthly and lifetime caps on payment - you will need to consult your policy to get the specific details. There are also services available that will review your policy and negotiate with the insurance company to make sure you are getting any and all benefits that you are entitled to.Medicaid - While most states (44 + D.C.) allow Medicaid to pay for your LTCC costs through what is called theMedicaid Waiver Program(which comes with many different names), there are income and asset limits. You must apply and qualify for Medicaid.Veterans Aid & Attendance (VA&A) - qualifying as a Veteran or Surviving Spouse can add quite a bit to your income but there are specific asset, income and service requirements to qualify, including:90 days active duty1 day during a wartime period. These are:WW II - 12/7/41 thru 12/31/46Korea - 6/27/50 thru 1/31/55Vietnam - 2/28/61 thru 8/4/64 (must have served physically in Vietnam)Vietnam - 8/5/64 thru 5/7/75Gulf War - 8/2/90 thru current (requires 24 months service)Other than the earlier Vietnam period, you need not have served directly in a theater of operations to qualify.There are also the asset and income limitations. On the income side, whatever you use on help with things like ADLs is deducted and not counted. That means is you have $5000 a month in income and move into a community that costs $5000 a month, in the eyes of the VA, your income is $0 and that qualifies. Or let's say you're living at home with that same income but you are receiving 4 hours a day of home care (aides) to help you with ADLs. At $25/hour, that's $100/day = $3000/mo. That $3000 gets deducted from your $5000 income, leaving you at $2000/mo and qualifying for most if not all of the maximum benefit.It is strongly recommended that you work with an accredited VA claims agent through this process.If you do qualify, the benefits for 2020 can be as high as:Married veteran - $2,266/moSingle veteran - $1,911/moSpouse needs care, living veteran doesnot- $1,500/moSurviving spouse (must be married at time of veterans death) - $1,228Unlike Medicaid, which is paid directly to the service or product provider, VA&A is paid to you (like Social Security) so it really falls under the private pay category for LTCC's since the money passes through you.Qualifying for Medicaid or VA benefits (you can't get both) is a complex process that requires the guidance of an expert lest you make a mistake that costs you dearly and cannot be corrected. There are "look back" periods for assets (in case you thought giving stuff away would help - it won't) and certain assets like investments and bank accounts are counted while others like your house and car are not. Some assets that are counted for Medicaid are not counted for the VA and vice versa. If you sell your house thinking you'll need that money, you've just converted an asset that is not counted into one that is counted and set back your date of qualifying by months or probably years. This has been said in other articles but here more than anywhere it bears repeating:Whether for Medicaid or VA benefits, work with an expert to make sure this is done properly.I hope this series of articles has been helpful in educating you about the LTCC world. As the baby boom generation begins to pass the 80 yo mark, that tsunami of people will begin crashing on the LTCC world in a big way. New communities are being built and new pricing models are being developed and tried. More and more dementia units are being built as cases of Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia continue to explode. Being educated on the current state of affairs in at least a general sense can help you plan and be prepared for whatever it is that you may face.Written & Submitted By: Care Patrol- Click for more information*

Rosemary Thomas of Chicago proudly endorses physical fitness and the saying, If you dont move it, you will lose it. After two hip replacements and fluctuating weight, she knew she needed to step up her fitness routine to regain mobility. Joining SilverSneakers provided her with the consistency she desired and the confidence she needed to begin fine-tuning her body. In addition to attending SilverSneakers classes regularly, she loves cardio and dancing. Thomas encourages others to get active and says, Dont meet me at the gym; beat me getting to the gym.In 2016, Thomas was selected as one of 10 finalists for the SilverSneakers Richard L. Swanson Inspiration Award due to her inspiring story of improving her health and happiness, and being a dedicated fitness champion.With SilverSneakers, older adults can get active and feel great, at their convenience and at no additional cost. More than 14.5 million people are eligible for the SilverSneakers benefit through more than 60 health plans that include the nations leading Medicare Advantage health plans, Medicare Supplement carriers and group retiree plans.As Thomas story shows, fitness is personal. Each individual should exercise where, when and how they want. That's why SilverSneakers has built a national network of more than 13,000 participating locations and fitness centers use the pool at one location in the morning, jog on a treadmill at another in the afternoon And take a class at another gym in the evening.In addition, the program includes SilverSneakers FLEX, with more than 70 unique types of classes in convenient neighborhood locations, such as churches, recreation centers and older-adult living communities.Celebrating more than 25 years, SilverSneakers is the nations leading community fitness program designed specifically for older Americans. No other program has such a rich history and experience in older adult fitness. What began in 1992 as a first-of-its-kind class for older adults, has now grown and evolved to accommodate all fitness levels, from Baby Boomers and beyond.For more information about SilverSneakers or to check elegibility, visit www.silversneakers.com or call 1-888-423-4632. In addition, our Spanish customer service team is available at 1-888-617-6392.

Life throws many stressors our way, posing a constant challenge for our mental health.Unfortunately, older adults have many unique stressors that they face. Deteriorating health, reduced independence, healthcare costs, and inability to do their favorite activities are common stressors for the elderly.As we age, coping with stress becomes even more difficult and more important. Our response to stress -- as well as the triggers we experience change as we get older -- make itharder to copewith stress. Luckily, laughter is an excellentstress relieverthat everyone, including older adults, can use to cope with stress.How Stress Affects Older AdultsStress affects all of us mentally and physically, but it is especially harmful to older adults. Some of the most common effects of chronic stress on older adults include:Lowered immune systemHeart conditionsHearing and vision loss from long-term adrenaline productionDigestive issues from the central nervous system shutting downUse Laughter for Stress ReliefWhile there are certainly times to visit the doctor, laughter is one effective method for relieving stress that everyone, especially older adults, can benefit from. Laughter has incredible short-term and long-term health benefits. According to theMayo Clinic, the short-term benefits of laughter include:Reduction of the stress responseRelaxation of muscles and tensionStimulation of organsRelease of endorphinsReduce physical painAlleviate symptoms ofdepressionand anxietyImprovemoodLaughter helps improve how your body works and feels in the moment, but it also has lasting effects. Thelong-term effectsof laughter include:Ease ofchronic painincluding arthritis and other common progressive diseasesBoost to the immune systemConnection with other peopleBetter coping with situationsLive a longer lifeImproved quality of lifeMakes us happierReduction of anxiety and depressionImprove your sense of humorWhy Does Laughter Help?Many of the mental benefits of laughter are intuitive, but how does it help us physically? Laughter affects the body similar to exercise. When you laugh your pulse quickens and your move more muscles. You breathe faster, boosting the oxygen in your blood. Laughter can be seen as a mild form of exercise. While laughter will not help you lose weight, it produces some similar effects as exercise which contributes to the many physical benefits.Scientistscan not say for sure if the actual act of laughing is what helps, or if social support and humor are contributing factors. Regardless, the situations that produce laughter are also beneficial. When it comes down to it, laughter certainly isnt hurting.Ways to LaughLaughter is an excellent natural relief for stress that greatly helps improve mental and physical health. Finding ways to laugh is very important for seniors. One way to laugh more often is to intentionally seek out photos, comics, movies, or videos that you find humorous, and to hang them up or return to them when you need a laugh. Seniors who are able can also attend a local comedy night or even watch one online.One of the best ways to laugh more is to surround yourself with people who make you laugh. Get together with family and friends who lift your mood. Join peer groups to meet other people in your living community who you can laugh with.As Brand President ofCarePatrol, Becky Bongiovanni is in charge of day-to-day franchise operations including new franchisee training programs, field training, and ongoing mentoring and coaching for all local franchisee offices to ensure each CarePatrol local office masters the CarePatrol system. In addition, she provides leadership for the franchisee operational support departments in the home office. Becky is also responsible for the information technology infrastructure and systems that support all franchise operations.Article Submitted and Written By: CarePatrol- click here for more information.

Written By: Joshua WallsSubmitted By: Inspired Living, For more information CLICK BELOW on the location nearest you!Hidden Lakes (Bradenton)Lakewood RanchSarasotaIn the same way physical activity can keep our bodies healthy, mental activity can keep our brains healthy. Since June is Alzheimers & Brain Awareness Month, now is an excellent time to think about strategies that may maintain, or improve our cognitive abilities as we age. Many of theactivities suggested beloware quick and easy to follow.Stay Connected SociallyAccording to the National Institute on Aging (NIA), engaging in activities with others can significantly increase your mental well-being and active brain use. Consider planning a family outing, joining a club, volunteering, playing board gameswith friends, or attending religious services. No matter how you plan to meet people, being social is a key ingredient for long-term brain health.Try to Learn Something New Every DayThe researchers at Harvard Medical found that learning new skills and having a purpose-driven life can increase mental acuity. The trick here is to find something new to learn so that you challenge your brain. Try a new creative hobby such as painting, photography, or journaling. If you enjoy nature, try identifyingbirds or plants. Learning a new language or picking up an instrument also challenges the brain. Just 15 minutes a day devoted to learning a new skill can benefit your brain.Manage StressExperiencing stress is normal and expected throughout our lives, but the National Institute on Aging notes that increased stress can impact memory and may factor into the risk of dementia. Activities that help to alleviate stress include: keeping a journal, meditation,relaxation exercises, and spending time interacting with a pet.Give Your Brain a BreakMental fatigue is real, and like any other organ in the body, the brain needs time to rest. Harvard Medical recommends minimizing distractions and economizing mental use to allow your brain to concentrate on learning and remembering important details. To give your brain a break try to eliminate clutter;identify a designated place to put keys, wallet, and phone; use a calendar to remember important events; and use lists for phone numbers, passwords, groceries, etc.Eat A Healthy Diet - Including SnacksAccording to the American Geriatrics Society, healthy eating habits can reduce the risk of memory loss. Studies link the popular Mediterranean Diet with better cognitive abilities in later life. This diet emphasizes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, fish, and other seafood; unsaturated fats such as olive oils; and low amounts of red meat, eggs, and sweets. Between meals, healthy snacks are important too. Instead of chips, consider vegetables, nuts, and fruits and avoid sugar-sweetened beverages, refined grains, and highly processed snack foods.At Inspired Living and Superior Residences, our residentshave fun exploring new experiences with our signature programs, like Inspired Destinations.Every month, we invite residents to take part in a series of social, recreational, and dining events designed to explore unique cultures and cuisines from around the world. Inspired by the six dimensions of wellness, our Inspired Destinations activities help residents live their best life every day. We offer a variety of living options for your needs, including Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care, and Respite Care.

ARE YOU A CANDIDATE FOR THE OSTEROARTHRITIS (OA) CENTER KNEE REHAB PROGRAM?1. Are your knees very stiff in the morning?2. Do your knees hurt when going up or down the stairs?3. Do you frequently take pain medication or aspirin for knee pain?4. Do the activities you enjoy cause pain around your knees?5. Have you been told that you need knee replacement surgery?If you answered YES to any of these questions, there is a successful Non-surgical treatment program to relieve your knee pain.HOW CAN VISCOSUPPLEMENTATION INJECTIONS PREVENT SURGERY?FDA has officially approved viscosupplementaion (Hyaluronan) for use in the treatment of Arthritis of the knee. Viscosupplementation bonds with naturally occurring joint fluid to create a lubricating and cushioning layer. It also reduces pain, inflammation and swelling of the joint, enabling you to do the everyday activities you enjoy!Published studies have proven and clinical experience has confirmed increased accuracy and decreased pain using our method of injections performed under an advanced live motion x-ray unit (Fluroroscopy) with dye. For best results, the viscosupplementation injections are combined with a specifically designed physical therapy program provided by a licensed Physical Therapist.YOU DONT HAVE TO LIVE WITH KNEE PAIN!In a little as five weeks, your knee pain may be reduced or possibly eliminate without a lifetime dependency on oral medications.It is important that you take an active role in the treatment of your Osteoarthritis OA and in prevention of additional joint damage. There are steps you can take to lower your risk for developing osteoarthritis.The most important thing you can do if you suspect you have any form of arthritis is to get proper diagnosis and begin early, aggressive treatment.WILL MY INSURANCE COVER THIS TREATMENT?Yes, Medicare and most major insurance will pay for some if not all of the treatment.KEY TO KNEE TREATMENT SUCCESSAll natural FDA approved hyaluronic acid acts as a lubricant and shock absorber in the knee.Injections visually guided by a live motion x-ray unit (Fluoroscope) to ensure minimal pain and maximal injection accuracy.Personalized Physical Therapy Program maximally enhances the lubricating and shock absorbing effect of the hyaluronic acid injectionsOnsite Licensed Physical Therapist works with each patient individually.Medical Procedure Covered by Medicare and Most InsuranceThis article was submitted by Dr. Robert Park at Centerville Medical. He can be reached at 801-298-7330. More information can be found at www.OACenters.com.

Therapeutic Rehabilitation is treating and repairing the whole person, to create a balanced mind, body, spirit, environment, and emotions. All elements of a persons life need to be brought into balance for recovery and success.Many therapeutic rehabilitation centers focus on the physical ailments, making it difficult to achieve a more functional level of independence. Therapeutic rehabilitation has incredible success when combined with the Eden Alternative philosophy which addresses the 3 plagues of aging: boredom, loneliness and helplessness. Search for a rehabilitation philosophy that builds on strengths.When looking for a rehabilitation community for physical, occupational, and/or speech and language therapy, check to make sure the community is not only focusing on a physical injury but on the how, why and where the injury occurred. Are they asking about you, your ideas of success and your goals? Treating the whole person results in meaningful outcomes.Understanding the interaction and balance between mind, body, spirit, emotions and environment is the key to a positive outcome.Continuing to Empower YOU!Editors Note: This article was submitted by Karen Gates. Karen is the Director of Admissions/Guest Services at Shalom Park and may be reached at 303-680-5000 or by email at Karen.Gates@ShalomPark.net.

What is the most significant change youve seen in your industry over the past year?With advancements in technology, audiology and hearing aids can now be offered as a fully mobile service. From the initial consultation, testing, diagnose to treatment, Doctors Hearing can fully take care of a patient in the comfort of their own home.What about further in the future?Treatment for tinnitus (ringing in the ears) has significantly advanced over the last 10 years. Previously, patients were told, I am sorry, but there is nothing we can do for you. You will just have to learn to live with the ringing. Current tinnitus treatments are highly effective in reducing ringing in the ears. However, I am excited to see what the next 10 years hold for advancements in tinnitus treatment.What are three key challenges your industry is facing?The three key problems facing Audiology, in SWFL, can be summed up in one phrase, Sales, sales, sales! Unfortunately, just about on every corner and even in big box stores, hearing aids have sadly turned into a retail industry. Since when do people shop for medical treatment in retail? And most patients are not informed that there is a difference. In fact, in Collier County I could count on one hand the number of Doctors of Audiology. Yet to most outside of the field, it looks like there are dozens of medical professionals. In reality, there are dozens of sales people. My advice to patients searching for proper medical care is to look at the credentials and work with a Doctor of Audiology. Just like a dentist is the doctor to see when one has problems with teeth, a Doctor of Audiology is the professional to see when one has problems with hearing loss, tinnitus or balance.What is your superpower? What strength or talent that has contributed most to your success?I worked in private practices in Naples for 7 years before opening my own practice. I would hear the same complaints from patients over and over, I cannot driveI do not have transportation until next week The office is so far away In SWFL there is a demand for aging in place. Many older adults want to keep their independence for as long as possible. In opening my practice, I knew that I wanted to meet this previously unserved need.Editors Note: This article was submitted by Doctors Hearing, Dr. Ann Rasmussen.

If your parents forced you to eat healthy foods when you were a kid, kept an eye on your finances and wanted to know that you were safe, get ready for a "Freaky Friday"switcheroo.As parent and child age, the roles are often reversed. Before your mom or dad reaches senior citizen status, you need to be prepared for some changes. A study by Pew Research Center found that the older people get, the younger they feel, so while you and your parents might feel like you can hold off the inevitable till they actually do feel old, here are some important things to keep in mind. 1. Scammers prey on everyone, but some target seniors.Make sure your parents are tech savvy enough to be suspicious about requests for money or information. AARP suggests talking to your folks to explain why the IRS would never call and ask for your personal information or how you can't win a contest you didn't enter. They also suggest getting rid of the landline or putting your parents onthe "do not call" list.2. Lack of appetite.Loss of appetite can be a warning sign for some diseases. It is also a normal process of aging. Most people eat less as they get older. Their sense of smell is not as acute, which affects their appetite. Also, production of the hormone cholecystokinin the one responsible for making us feel full increases as we age. If the doctor rules outdisease as a cause of a lessening appetite, just make sure that the calories they do eat are nutritious.3. Don't take the fall.Falls are the leading cause of injury death among older Utahns, but most of them are preventable. Precautions like exercising regularly to improve strength and balance will keep people on their feet longer. So will removing obstacles and tripping hazards. The Utah Department of Health offers falls prevention classes that teach the elderly, andthose who love them, how to keep the luster on the Golden Years.4. Declaring independence.From toddlers to teenagers, we all crave some freedom. The same is true for your parents. Letting people do what they can for themselves, for as long as they can, helps them mentally and physically. Perhaps the best tool here is communication. Build trust with your parents with they still have their independence so when it's time to make some of those harder decisions, they will have faith in your judgment. While you are building that trust, actively listen, ask questions about their concerns and provide workable options. Don't avoid the tough subjects or feel like you need to cover every topic in one sitting.5. Seize the day.While many only see the downside to aging, there is plenty to look forward to as well. The Huffington Post listed 19 of them, including maturity and wisdom, more stable friendships, senior discounts, etc. Many aging adults find relaxation in their older years that they might have never known while in a career or raising a family. As their child,remind them of these daily.Be respectful of your parents, especially if you have children.Whether or not it's intentional, you will be modeling for your children how they should care for you when the "Freaky Friday" plot twist takes one more turn in just a few years.Editors Note: This article was submitted by the Violence and Injury Prevention Program,with the Utah Department of Health and may be reached at 801-538-6864or by email atvipp@utah.gov.

What is a Medicaid Waiver?In 1981, Congress passed legislation allowing states greater flexibility in providing services to people living in community settings.This legislation, Section 1915 of the Social Security Act, authorized the waiver of certain Medicaid statutory requirementsThe Waiving of these mandatory statutory requirements allowed for the development of joint federal and state funded programs called Medicaid 1915 Home and Community Based Services WaiversThe New Choice Waiver programPurposeThis waiver helps eligible individuals to move out of nursing facility settings. Services are designed to help people transition out of a nursing facility and re-establish themselves back in the community.EligibilityMust be 21 years plus 1 month old;The primary condition must not be attributable to a mental illness;The individual does not meet Intensive Skilled level of care criteria; andThe individual does not meet level of care criteria for admission to an intermediate care facility for people with mental retardation (ICFMR)In addition, eligible individuals must be:Receiving Medicaid reimbursed nursing facility care on an extended stay basis of 90 days or more;Currently receiving Medicare reimbursed care in a licensed Utah medical institution (that is not an Institution for Mental Disease), on an extended stay of at least 30 days, and will discharge to a Medicaid certified nursing facility for an extend stay of at least 60 days; orReceiving Medicaid reimbursed services through another of Utahs 1915 waivers and have been identified as in need of immediate or impending nursing facility care.Waiver ServicesAdult Day Care Adult Residential ServicesAssistive TechnologyAttendant CareCaregiver TrainingCase ManagementChore ServicesConsumer Preparation ServicesEmergency Response SystemsEnvironmental Accessibility AdaptationsFinancial Management ServicesHabilitation ServicesHome Delivered MealsHomemaker ServicesInstitutional Transitional ServicesMedication Assistance ServicesNon-Medical TransportationPersonal Budget AssistanceRespite CareSpecialized Behavioral Health ServicesSpecialized Medical EquipmentSupportive MaintenanceEditors Note:This article was submitted by Blake Minardi. For more information contact: Vicki Ruesch (801) 538-6148 or Blake Minardi (801) 538-6497; UDOH Bureau of Authorization and Community Based Services 288 North 1460 West (PO Box 143112) Salt Lake City, Utah 84114-3112.

Sometimes people get confused with the term Home Health Agency in Utah. Utah requires that companies providing in-home care be licensed as a home health agency. Home health agencies are divided into two types: Home Health Agency and Home Health - Personal Care Service Agency. Both types of agency are licensed to provide health care services in patients' homes. Both types of agency are required to ensure that all employees pass a criminal background check. They must also have policies and procedures in place that describe the type and scope of services that they provide. The Utah State requirements for Home Health and Personal Care Agencies are found in the Utah Administrative Code, R432-700 (http://www.rules.utah.gov/publicat/code/r432/r432-700.htm).Home Health Agencies provide skilled services and are often paid through Medicare. Their services must be ordered by a physician. Home Health Agencies provide a broad range of medical services in the home, including physical therapy, occupational therapy, wound care and medication management among others. Typically, services are ordered by a physician for 60 days. That order for service may be reauthorized by the physician if the patient is continuing to make progress. Home Health Agencies typically do not provide long-term care in the home. Thats where Personal Care Agencies come in.Personal Care Agencies provide assistance with activities of daily living (ADL's); they do not provide any therapies or wound care. Personal Care Agencies provide services similar to that provided by Assisted Living Facilities, including assistance with all ADL's, cooking, cleaning and outings. Services are generally paid for by the client, just like an Assisted Living Facility. Some Personal Care Service Agencies accept Medicaid to assist disabled patients who need long term assistance in the home. Medicare never pays for this type of service. Personal Care Agencies are a good choice for those seniors who want to live in their homes, but need a little extra help to stay there safely.You can find a listing of Home Health and Personal Care Agencies, with the different services they each provide, on page # 126 of the Seniors Blue Book or on the webat www.SeniorsBlueBook.com.Editors Note: Article Submitted by Kevin Whatcott, owner of Homewatch CareGivers of Utah. He is an attorney and Certified Senior Advisor. Homewatch CareGivers has been caring for seniors in their homes for over 30 years. If you have any questions about home care or other senior issues, give Kevin a call at 801-746-1080

In this day and age having quality medical treatment can be a heavy expense, especially for older patients.Most older patients may deter from going to the doctors office or even the hospital because they fear they will not be able to pay for the medical bill after the service.In-home doctors visits can help to decrease medical cost for older patients and give them a way to stay healthy in the best possible way right in the comfort of home.Not only do in-home doctors visits reduce medical costs up front, they can reduce the overall costs by keeping patients out of the hospital.Patients can benefit from practices like HOUSECALL DOCTORS PC who make house calls for patients in Lake, Porter, La Porte, and St. Joseph counties.HOUSECALL DOCTORS PC, directed by Dr. Saket B. Sinha, MD, gives a more intimate doctor-patient relationship in the comfort of home, providing ongoing medical care and treatment for chronic issues such as diabetes, heart disease, and dementia-related illnesses.Dr. Sinha is always accepting new patients. If you or someone you know would benefit from an in-home primary care provider, please call 219-750-9497 today to sign up as a new patient. HOUSECALL DOCTORS PC strives to see new patients from 48-72 hours of enrollment.As an internist based in Highland, IN, Dr. Sinha is skilled at the diagnosis and treatment of a large array of ailments and diseases in aging adults.Dr. Sinha has over 28 years of diverse experience, especially in Internal Medicine and General Practice.Dr. Sinha has been making house calls all over Northwest Indiana for over 10 years, making receiving medical treatment easier, more comfortable, and more accessible for his patients.

Aging in America has never been a popular subject. We know it happens, but we never really want to think or talk about it. When we do, the conversation usually revolves around how to hide the signs of aging instead of how we can embrace and prepare for the next phase of life. Believe me, life can be enjoyed through the end, Ive seen joyful aging in action. However, education and preparation is pivotal to understanding how to age well and have the best care and quality of life.For instance, do you know the difference between a Nursing facility (medical model of care), an Assisted Living facility (non-medical model of care, but can provide some healthcare services) and a Personal Care Home (non-medical model of care)? Are you aware that Therapy Services can be provided in your home? Did you know that Home Care, Home Health and Hospice are similar but offer distinctly different services that can be provided anywhere you call home?As an industry, Long Term Care has not done the best job educating our future consumers on what is available to them as they age. With new technology and a growing older population, the industry is expanding and evolving by leaps and bounds. You need to be proactive, research and plan for the inevitable, not avoid it. The better the research the better the outcome.Thankfully the days of the Old Folks Home are gone, replaced by vibrant senior living communities that focus on hospitality, wellness and aging gracefully with dignity and independence, but you need to make sure the community is the right fit for you. All communities are dynamic and have their own living culture regardless of whether they are owned by a large corporation or a small regional provider. You need to tour, ask questions of residents and staff, and attend a meal and/or activity. The same due diligence applies to researching home care agencies. Research and prepare now. Form a plan. Meet with an estate planner if needed, but do not put off for tomorrow, what you need to do today. If you wait until you need the help your options may become significantly limited.Editors Note: This article was submitted by S. Denny Granahan. Denny is the Executive Director with Greenfield Senior Living in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania.

First, if you are a Veteran, let me thank you for serving our great country. It is a privilege to provide this article in some way of showing my appreciation and gratitude for your contribution to our nation. We feel privileged to provide home care, as well as information for veterans who served our nation in its time of need. We provide you with the information to work through the paperwork to help you avoid potential pension claim delays. Our team will help guide you through the myriad of questions you may have regarding the benefits that you may be entitled to, including the VAs Aid and Attendance Program. Once you become an approved participant in a VA program, myself and the Comfort Keepers team will assist you along the way. You may be familiar with the VA Hospital and Long Term Care benefits, but there are other benefits which allow for services to be brought into your home. Certain VA credentialed agencies can provide the quality home care and companionship our veterans deserve. There are several veteran in home care programs for which an individual may qualify:Improved Pension Benefit ProgramHomemaker/Home Health Aide ProgramIn-Home Respite ProgramWho Qualifies? If you or your spouse served 90 consecutive days of active military duty at least one of those days during a U.S. declared war you may qualify or be partially qualified. Other qualifications include specific financial criteria and documented physical need, requiring assistance with at least 1 Activity of Daily Living, be Legally Blind, or Suffer from Dementia or Alzheimer's disease for example, but there are many other conditions that may qualify for the in home care.. The best way to find out is to have a credentialed agency provide a free assessment of your situation. To begin the application process, you will need:Original discharge certificateMarriage certificate (divorce papers from any prior marriages, if applicable)Death certificate of veteran (if applicable)Social Security numbers for the veteran and spouseIf you think you may qualify for one of the VA programs, you may contact our office, our any home care agency you choose, and once we have an accurate picture of your specific situation, we will advise you of your options. I look forward to serving you and your family, as you have protected mine. Written by Sonjia Yates, owner of Comfort Keepers, 208-895-8822 sonjiayates@comfortkeepers.com

Q: I have wanted to change my Medicare Advantage plan, and I was told I could during the Annual Enrollment Period. When is this, and how do I change my plan?A: The Medicare Annual Enrollment Period is October 15 December 7. During this time, you can make changes to various aspects of your Medicare Advantage and Part D drug coverage. Changes made during this time will take place January 1, 2022.One of the best tools to help you during the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period is the PlanfinderTool located at www.medicare.gov/find-a-plan. It takes you step-by-step through available Medicare Advantage and Part D prescription drug plans while taking your prescription drug costs into consideration.Another great tool for beneficiaries is MyMedicare.gov. You can register for online access to your preventive health information and track your preventive services, get a calendar of the Medicare-covered tests and screenings you are eligible for, and print a report to take to your health care provider.If you have already created an account on MyMedicare.gov, you will use that same username and password to log into the new Plan Finder there is no need to create another account. Another great resource for Medicare beneficiaries is SHIP! The State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) provides free, impartial assistance with Medicare questions. SHIP Counselors are thoroughly trained and are located throughout Indiana. See a list of our Indiana locations at www.in.gov/ship/find-an-indiana-ship-location/.You can meet with a SHIP Counselor by phone, virtually with an online meeting, and in some areas, in person. SHIP Counselors are able to help walk you through the online Planfinder Tool. SHIP offers events throughout Indiana. You can find a current list of events www.in.gov/ship/ship-presentations-and-events/.Find SHIP on Facebook at facebook.com/Indiana.SHIP. SHIP often hosts Live Educational events that assist Medicare beneficiaries.If you or someone you know have questions about the Annual Enrollment Period, the Planfinder Tool, MyMedicare.gov, or any other Medicare related topic, contact SHIP at 1-800-452-4800, 1-866-846-0139 TTY or online at www.medicare.in.gov. You can also find us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and YouTube.

When seeking services that will help seniors stay in their own homes, it can often be overwhelming learning about the types of services available. The first consideration is the senior is having difficulty traveling outside of the home. The second consideration is usually the family support may also be strained for time, resources, and availability.Fortunately, the internet age has made arguably one of the most important types of support (nutrition and home supplies) easier and more affordable than ever to obtain. The senior and the caregiver support system are both relieved of the burden of having to find the time, the energy, and the means of transportation to shop for groceries and home supplies. Instead, the items can be ordered and delivered directly to the home.What to look for: The best home grocery shopping services will assign you a personal shopper and shop at the store(s) of your choice. The service will offer extras such as prescription pick-ups, grocery list assistance, etc. They will use shopper club cards and offer senior discounts. They will deliver the groceries directly into the kitchen if desired. They will provide you with the original store receipt(s).What to avoid: It is wise to avoid services that that limit you to ordering from their own inventory of items with no choice of substitution or store. Look upon with suspicion any service that hides or marks-up the original prices and doesnt offer you the original store receipt. Services that make you pick up the products or ship them in boxes that have to be unpacked are not helpful to the senior.Helen, 91, just cant drive to the store much anymore. Shes developed a friendship with her personal shopper, and often saves some cookie bars for her. Helen loves the freedom she has to continue to bake and cook for herself and her disabled son. As a bonus, she feels less of a burden on her children (who are grandparents themselves!) and feels blessed when they visit. Home grocery delivery services has become an important part of her plan to stay longer in her home.Editors Note: This article was submitted by Larissa Pearson, owner of WeGoShop. com Dallas. She may be reached at 469-666-0595 or by email at dallas@ wegoshop.com

How many times have you been to the doctor this past year? Did you see your primary care physician for your regular check-up? Perhaps your cardiologist? Your dentist? For most people, health care is extremely fragmented. This means that the information discussed or obtained from each of these visits is not shared with any other provider. This can result in duplicate tests being performed and perhaps delayed diagnosis or treatment. Even for the very healthy, the burden of keeping different doctors apprised of what youre experiencing is typically on you. Electronic medical record systems in Saint Alphonsus hospitals and clinics are helping to make a difference in sharing important medical data between Saint Alphonsus providers, and making great strides in resolving the fragmentation of your care. We are working diligently to extend this same benefit and communicate to independent medical providers in your life who should know whats happening with you. However, for now, you or someone you trust should be the center point of your care. Here's what you can do.When you get a test result or have a procedure,get the summary in writing, and send copies to all your other healthcare providers with a simple note: Wanted to keep you up- to-date on my health status. Please put this in my chart. Be sure to bring up the data orproblem at your next visit.Keep a list of all your medications in your wallet or purse and update it any time a healthcare provider adds or deletes a drug or changes a dosage.Dont leave your dentist or your eye doctor out of the loop. It will help them diagnose and treat any issues they may identify with you.If you have a test or procedure and you do not hear the results soon afterwards, do not assume the results were normal. Call the healthcare provider who ordered the test and ask them to send you a written copy of the test summary.If you are hospitalized, it's okay to ask all your caregivers questions about what is happening. Be sure you understand what tests youre getting and why. If you are being discharged from the hospital ask for the results of any tests or procedures you had in the hospital.Editor's Note: This article was submitted by Saint Alphonsus. To find a Saint Alphonsus primary care or specialty physician, call (208) 367-DOCS (3627).

CareAparent honors and recognizes the work of Occupational Therapists. Each one of these therapists play a vital role in promoting independence through solutions and assistance to those in need. CareAparent is proud to offer Occupational Therapy as one of our interdisciplinary approaches to care in the home. Our goal is to help our clients remain as independent as possible for as long as possible by helping our clients continue to live safely in home.What is Occupational Therapy?A practicing Occupational Therapist is a licensed and registered medical personnel. When an Occupational Therapist is in the home, theyre focusing on an individuals ability to perform daily tasks.What are the benefits of Occupational Therapy?Home Safety AssessmentInconspicuous risks to your physical safety can go unnoticed in the home. After a home safety assessment, an Occupational Therapist can offer strategies for individuals to manage their daily activities while reducing the risk of an injury or further decline in health. By offering these strategies, Occupational Therapists can find the right fit between abilities needed and desired activities in the home.Cognitive and Memory FunctionsAlzheimers Disease, dementia, and other cognitive conditions can have a significant impact on a persons ability to perform basic functions in their everyday lives. Occupational Therapists evaluate individuals with cognitive impairments to determine their strengths, impairments, and performance areas. Once evaluated, a plan is created to assist clients in using tools for improvement which may include wellness programs, memory activities, routine exercises or modifications. Not only do Occupational Therapists provide support for their clients, they are also able to help educate family members through the process.Fall PreventionThe risk of falling is a serious concern as we age. If one falls, they risk a lengthy hospitalization and rehabilitation stay. Occupational Therapists can assess and analyze the potential risks that may lead to a fall. Providing potential solutions and identifying fall risk factors can allow individuals to feel comfortable and safe in their environment such as include improving balance with safety devices.CareAparents Occupational TherapistCareAparents Occupational Therapists can assess and focus on daily activities that could prevent an individual from aging in place. The ability to have an Occupational Therapist come into the home environment encourages and promotes staying healthy and active. If you or a loved one have any questions about our Occupational Therapy Program service,click here.To learn more about how CareAparent can help you or your loved one,please visit our website.

An adult daycare center is typically a non-residential facility that supports the health, nutritional, social, and daily living needs of adults in a professionally staffed, group setting.Adult day programs are for elders who need a place to stay during daytime hours because they have difficulty functioning alone.#listing_mgr{7 basic_search}#

Finding The Right Home Care AgencyDecisions regarding the well being and care of our loved ones are some of the most important and difficult decisions we will face in our lifetimes. We may feel that we did all the right things or we made a terrible mistake. One of the most important decisions is selecting the best Home Care Agency to provide ongoing care to our loved ones in their home.The first task is deciding between a medical homecare and a non-medical home care agency. Non-medical home care cannot dose medications, provide injections or wound care. Most clients at home will require the type of care provided by a non-medical home care agency.When choosing potential home care agencies, make sure that the agency has the skills that match your loved one needs. Meet with the decision makers involved, develop a list of the things you want to see, and make sure your list addresses the following:Does the agency have liability insurance? Request a copy of the certification.Is one of the agency owners or directors involved in the meetings?Does the home care agency provide a personal assessment; do they provide a home safety assessment and what are the charges?What are their hours of operation? How do they handle calls and issues outside normal hours of operations? Most crises do not happen between 9 AM and 5 PM.What is their back up plan if a caregiver becomes sick, has a transportation issue or a delay because of bad weather? How adept are they at crisis management?Have they received a referral from a competing home care agency? That is one of the key indicators that a home care agency is known and respected in the field.How does the home care agency screen its caregivers? Are the caregivers bonded?How did you hear about the agency? Is it a direct referral from someone who has worked with the agency?Ask for previous client testimonials and contact information. And make the calls!Many excellent non-medical home care agencies exist today. If you get good answers during your due diligence process, you have probably found a great agency for the care of your loved one. Remember that the agency and their caregivers must have the skills and personality to work with your family and be a good fit with family members to make a cohesive care team for your loved one.This article was submitted by Carol L. Kilduff Director/Owner of Visiting Angels Chelmsford. She can be reached at 978-244-0200.

Are you worried about the impact of a Nursing Home stay on you or your spouse? You are not alone as the majority of older adults worry about this same possibility. When a nursing home admission crisis occurs, it is understandably overwhelming. How will I pay for Nursing Home Care?Medicare coverage is available in many cases but is limited in payment duration. Long Term Care insurance can do wonders in protecting our assets and may even increase your chances of gaining admission to a competitive health care facility, but most consumers have opted out of this insurance due to high premiums. Once we have exhausted Medicare benefits, paying privately becomes inevitable, until one becomes eligible for Medicaid (Medical Assistance) benefits.Must I spend all of my assets if I am admitted to a Nursing Home? Under Medical Assistance, the spouse who is NOT in need of nursing home services, (the Community Spouse) is afforded substantial protections that provide the necessary means to continue living at home with assets and income to support them. However, understanding and benefiting from these protections is a difficult task especially given the fact that information is not readily available and few professionals specialize in educating seniors in this critical area.What can I do to lessen the impact of a Nursing Home stay?It is never too early to initiate planning. Everyone should have a Financial Power of Attorney and a Healthcare Power of Attorney with Living Will instructions these all are essential documents that allow our trusted agents to protect us in difficult times. In addition, these documents should be specifically drafted to meet our goals including asset protection powers for our spouse.Consider contacting an attorney who focuses in Elder Law today! An Elder Law attorney can help you create an effective plan to protect you and your spouse should a nursing home admission become inevitable. Peace of mind is achievable!___________________________Editors Note: This article was contributed by Shawn Pierson, Elder Law Attorney in Lititz, PA.

The Pennsylvania Treasury Department is currently holding more than $2.3 billion in unclaimed property, with about one in 10 residents eligible to recoup that property.Unclaimed property is any financial asset that has been left inactive by the owner for a period of seven years or more. If no lawful owner claims the property at that time, it is transferred to the Treasury.The most common kinds of unclaimed property include savings and checking accounts, uncashed checks, unclaimed insurance benefits and items abandoned in forgotten safe deposit boxes. The amounts can range from a few dollars to a few thousand dollars.To find out if you or a member of your family is entitled to unclaimed property, please visit www.patreasury.com. After proving ownership, the property will be returned to you free of charge.Please be advised that there has been a surge of unclaimed property scams targeting victims through fake letters and emails in which scammers portray themselves as National Association of Unclaimed Property Administrators (NAUPA) or state Treasury representatives.Instances have been reported where fraudulent communication uses NAUPA letterhead, and scammers request personal information and a small fee in exchange for the promise to obtain the unclaimed property, which they say may be worth hundreds of thousands of dollars.There is no need to pay a private service to submit a claim. If you need assistance pursuing your unclaimed property, please call my office at (717) 284-1965.This article was submitted by Pennsylvania State Rep. Bryan Cutler (R-Peach Bottom), who may be reached at bcutler@pahousegop.com. You may also view his website at www.RepCutler.com.

The reverse mortgage of today is NOT your mothers reverse mortgage.This once shamedprogram is helping seniors from many walks of life fill retirement gaps, providing protection and stability through their golden years.Through the use of an FHA insuredreverse mortgage, homeowners are able to tap into the equity in their homes without being required to make a monthly mortgage. Thats right a reverse mortgage CANprovide Colorados seniors with cash flow for life as long as they continue to live in the home and keep their property taxes, homeowners insurance, and HOA fees up to date. The funds can be used for whatever the borrower deems fit additional income, medical expenses, vacations, home repairs, gifts, and more.Reverse mortgages are available to homeowners 62 and over, and aReverse Mortgage for Purchaseoption is available for those looking to purchase a new residence.Editors Note: This article was submitted by Jan Jordan, Reverse Mortgage Loan Officer, ?NMLS 543249. Jan works for Retirement Funding Solutions, NMLS 1025894 and may be reached at 970-646-8908 or by email at: jjordan@rfslends.com

Im not going to a nursing home, I want to stay in my own home.Unfortunately, physical and mental capacity issues may require additional care that is difficult and extraordinarily expensive in your home. Transitioning into an assisted living or skilled nursing facility can be exhausting and expensive. Proper advanced Medicaid planning with an Elder Law attorney can help you find the government resources to pay for a majority of your health care costs. The best time to plan is before you need assistance.SKILLED NURSING FACILITY My individual medical care needs are more than family caregivers or assisted living facilities can provide.You or a family member may be in a position where they need immediate skilled nursing care. It is important to make sure you consult an elder law attorney before applying for Medicaid. Applying before you meet the income test and asset test can be a major setback on the path to obtaining financial assistance. Each month you do not qualify may result in major financial loss.ASSISTED LIVING FACILITY I need assistance with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs).While it is a difficult decision to move into an assisted living facility, often it is the best decision for you and your family. To ease the financial burden, it is necessary to prepare for any future medical issues that may happen down the road. While full cost-of-care Medicaid coverage is not automatically available for Assisted Living, there are discretionary government programs that you may qualify for, including the Medicaid Diversion program.INDEPENDENT LIVING FACILITY I am fully capable of handling daily activities on my own, but it is nice knowing that I have assistance nearby when needed.While less expensive than assisted living or skilled nursing, independent living still comes at a high cost. There are numerous legal and financial planning techniques available to help preserve your hard-earned money. These techniques may be used to put you in a position to cover the cost of long-term care.Elder law is an important piece of estate planning that will help you establish a plan to cover the high costs of long-term care and preserve your estate for your family. While it is important to ask for help at any stage when seeking long-term care, remember to plan early and plan often. Preparing well in advance of any major health issues can save you money and also save you years of stress and aggravation down the line. Please consult with your advisors to develop a long-term care plan that is right for you and your family.

Most older adults want to live in their homes for as long as possible. Aging at home brings with it many benefits as well as concerns. A longtime home is a place of comfort, memories and can be a source of connections to family, friends, places of worship, shops and health providers.However, most homes were not built to support the mobility, sensory and cognitive changes that often accompany aging. As one ages, everyday tasks such as climbing the stairs, standing at counters or in the shower, getting in and out of the bathtub and reaching objects in cabinets can become more difficult.With some preplanning, the use of todays technology, some home modifications, and outside assisted services when needed, you can make your home better suited to meet the changing needs of the people who live there.Simple precautions clearing the floor of clutter and removing rugs, improve lighting, add no-slip strips or non-skids mats on floors that may get wet. Place items on lower shelves for easier access.Modifications-Through-out the home replace door handles and facet handles with levers rather than knobs. Add ramp access and/or wider door ways for better mobility and access. Handrails on both sides of stairs or stair lift.Bathroom Higher Toilet seats, grab bars at toilet, shower and bath, level entry shower (no step) with bench.Technology Medical Alert Systems, smart home devices and home monitoring systems enable residents to call for emergency assistance, perform simple tasks by voice command and creates peace of mind for yourself and loved ones afar.In-Home Assistance ServicesIn-Home care and Home Health care are options to assist aging at home.All of these modifications can be tailored to be make your life easier and keep you independent at home for longer. Most importantly, keep your overall health, safety and everyones peace of mind a top priority.When the time comes that you or your loved ones are unable to stay in the home safely, turn to your SRES (Senior Real Estate Specialist) to assist in the transition. As Seniors Real Estate Specialists (SRES)we have unique training and experience in helping home buyers and sellers.Information in this article was extracted from NAR and Eldercare Locator by Bonnie Warren of Pathway Home Team at Keller Williams. Bonnie can be reached at 407-222-4508 or email bonniewarren@kw.com

Many older Veterans never look into their VA Healthcare benefits, believing they are reserved primarily for the most disabled veterans or those with the least amount of money. Please dont make that mistake.Talk to your fellow Veterans at the VFW, The Legion or to the VSO at your town hall or senior center. The VSO, your local Veterans Service officer, is an added benefit for Massachusetts Veterans (See article on why you should contact your VSO.)For a second opinion, seek out Veterans who get their care at the VA. The VA can provide access to an entire Primary Care Team. That team will communicate with each other on a regular basis about YOUR care and how to help you reach your health goals. You can go to the VA and still continue with your community based Primary Care Provider or choose to get all your medical needs from the wide assortment of services available at the VA Boston.According to the 2012 U.S. Census, there are in excess of 12.4 million Veterans age 65 or older. As Veterans age, the VA is ready to address a variety of issues including your changing health risks. Veterans, like most older Americans, wish to stay in their home independently as long as safely possibly. The VA has resources focused on making this a reality, including: Home Based Primary Care, intended for Veterans that have difficulty keeping and maintaining their medical appointments, is a unique benefit that brings the entire Primary care team to your home to provide medical care. Telehealth, a great option for Veterans that have cardiac concerns in addition to other medical issues, is a daily monitoring of vital signs through a nurse who keeps in telephone contact with you providing support and guidance if there is a change in your blood pressure, weight or blood sugar. Mail order medications In home respite and in patient respite.The VA will pay for attendance at an Adult Day Program with other Veterans in the community contracted by the VA. This gives Veterans socialization opportunities and provides respite for caregivers to attend to their own needs while their loved one is getting care.The VA also provides glasses, hearing aids, orthotic shoes and medical equipment such as scooters, wheel chairs walker, canes, a life alert button that when pressed calls 911 and possibly a chair lift, if eligible.The VA has a robust Mental Health clinic for older Veterans. As people retire many look back on their life and make meaning of it or try to resolve things that have been troubling them. The VA has several time limited groups and longer term groups on Brain Health, Insomnia, Acceptance, and Commitment Therapy and Mindfulness. These groups are a great way to meet other older Veterans, retired and living at home looking to meet other people and find healthy activities.The Brockton VA has an awarding winning Creative Arts Studio where participants can take art or music lessons or participate in Yoga.. You might be surprised at what you are missing. Come and check out your options at the VA Boston Healthcare System.Submitted by Gayle Clark, LICSW, Geriatric Mental Health Outpatient Clinic, US Dept. of Veterans Affairs, VA Boston Healthcare System. For more information, contact David Hencke, VA Boston Outreach Coordinator, at 857-3364-5934

Being a family caregiver is not an easy task.There are numerous physical, emotional, spiritual and financial challenges in caring for an older family member. Family caregivers will spend on average 4 to 5 years of their life caring for their loved one.Its a long, hard, tough job caring for a family member. Many family caregivers report their health has gotten worse since they became a caregiver. Elderly caregivers have a 63% higher mortality rate than their non-caregiving peers. Thirty five percent of family caregivers are depressed which is twice the national average.Why is this important to know? Because non-caregiving peers say things that sound helpful but are really hurtful. Comments like, Youre so lucky to be able to care for your mom/dad. Itll get better once they get used to living in your house. Just give it some time. I dont know how you do it.They dont feel blessed or lucky because mom is always screaming at them. Dad is constantly fighting the help the caregiver is trying to provide. Many caregivers are in survival mode constantly going from one appointment to another. Many are hanging on by their fingertips struggling to figure out how to keep from getting fired at work or carving out time for their own kids.In a recent focus group here in Colorado Springs family caregivers were asked what they wanted non-caregivers to know about caregiving. One caregiver said; Having to drop what youre doing in order to care for your loved one is frequent and very frustrating. Another said; People dont understand how much it takes to care for a family member. A 3rd caregiver said; What about me? Everyone asks about the care receiver. No one asks about me!Many caregivers feel invisible, isolated and alone. What they need is your support. Not your verbal support but concrete physical help. Ask what kind of physical help they need and then offer your valuable time to complete that task for them. It may not seem like much but it may be the difference between life and death for that caregiver.Editors Note: This article was submitted by Kent Mathews MSW. Kent is the Care Manager for the Family Caregiver Support Center at the Pikes Peak Area Council of Governments-Area Agency on Aging. He may be reached at 719-471-2096 ext. 115 or by email at kmathews@ppacg.org.

Caring for a family member with Alzheimer's and dementia can be time consuming and often requires additional resources and support. It is not always easy to know when a loved one is ready to make that transition. The early onset of Alzheimer's and dementia can take years to fully unfold, or in some cases instances of the disease can start happening overnight, making it hard to prepare for what is to come. As a family member, you are not only dealing with its effect on you and your family, but you are also faced with how to best care for your loved one. The most important decision when preparing is one that makes them comfortable, while also providing the best care possible.Those just starting to suffer from Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) may need some help day-to-day but commonly can continue residing in Assisted Living. Many residents currently living in a traditional memory care setting could flourish in a less restrictive and more stimulating environment. Transitional Memory Care is just the program for those who may have memory issues, but are not ready for the more structured memory care. Transitional Memory Care not only supports the resident facing mild memory loss, but with added socialization and a stimulating program, they are also able to maintain their quality of life as they age.It is understood that active socializing stimulates the mind, encourages companionship and provides a sense of overall well-being. The life engagement programming of Transitional Memory Care helps add a sense of enjoyment and quality of living for residents who may be reluctant to participate in social settings. Socialization plays a large role in maintaining quality of life as individuals age. Those who have strong social networks live longer and are healthier. Social engagement has been found to stimulate multiple body systems including the cognitive, cardiovascular, and neuromuscular systems. The best of this programming combines and strengthens relationships through engagement in activities with others who enjoy the same interests and personalization to meet the overall needs of the group. For that reason, the most successful transitional memory care programs have a limited group size, operate at least 5-7 days a week and have structured activities and opportunities for socialization.To learn more about transitional memory care and how it may benefit your loved one, please visit Spectrum Retirements The Residence ClubEditors Note: This article was submitted by Spectrum Retirement Communities, LLC of Denver, Colorado.

If the unexpected happens, you need the best care as quickly as possible.Good Samaritan Medical Center (GSMC) provides community members with convenient access to resources and specialized care without having to transfer to another facility.The leading cause of trauma at GSMC and in Boulder County is older adult falls. In 2016, the hospital saw over 300 patients admitted due to a fall, with approximately 65 percent of these patients aged 65 years and older. As a Level II Trauma Center, the hospital is charged with addressing the most common mechanisms of injury by empowering community members with injury prevention strategies and education.One such resource available to all Boulder County residents is the Matter of Balance class. Taught in conjunction with the Boulder County Area Agency on Aging, the Matter of Balance class is an eight-week course held in the fall and spring, and runs for two hours once a week. Focusing on strategies for remaining active and independent, the course teaches exercises to improve balance skills, flexibility, strength, coordination and overall health condition. In addition to exploring and discussing their own beliefs about falling, participants learn about nutrition, how medications can increase the risk for falls, ways to talk with a doctor about falls, and methods for improving home safety.To register or learn more about the Matter of Balance class, call the Boulder County Area Agency on Aging at 303-441-3599.Motor vehicle accidents are the second leading cause of traumatic injuries treated at GSMC. To help facilitate improved driving safety, the hospital hosts a CarFit event once a quarter. Developed by AAA, AARP and the American Occupational Therapy Association, CarFit utilizes professional technicians to properly fit a drivers seat, safety belt, mirrors and more to ensure the driver is as safe as possible. Occupational Therapists are also involved to help recommend adaptive features to address unique physical needs.To make an appointment or learn more about CarFit events, call the GSMC Trauma Outreach & Injury Prevention Coordinator at 303-689-4623.The GSMC injury prevention team is also available to speak at schools, community events and housing communities. To learn more or schedule a speaking event, call 303-689-4623.Editors Note: This article was submitted by Rachel Hamasaki, Communications Manager at Good Samaritan Medical Center and may be reached at 303-689-5278 or by email at Rachel.Hamasaki@sclhs.net

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Caring for a person with dementia often takes its toll on the caregiver's health. The stress of the situation often causes medical and/or psychological issues for the person. Although stress cannot completely be eliminated, there are steps to take to avoid being in distress.One of the first steps is to have a medical professional who understands dementia, the progression, the impacts, and the medical treatments. This doctor may or may not be the person's primary care physician. It could be a gerontologist, neurologist, geriatric psychiatrist, or a physician who has a strong understanding of dementia.Having someone who understands the financial pieces of elder care is also key to avoiding a crisis down the road. An elder law attorney is able to help put the necessary pieces in place to assure that decisions can be made and that financial assets are being used in a way that is permitted or even protected. Medicaid and Medicare laws are complex and often changing. In addition, many elder law attorneys are aware of programs available to financially assist seniors.Many caregivers find joining a support group is beneficial. Groups are often facilitated by a professional. This person usually has a strong understanding of the disease and the resources available. In addition, you will have the opportunity to share your experience with others who have the same experience as you. Also, it provides a safe environment to share thoughts with others who will not judge and can understand. In addition, you will get advice and support from someone who may have already faced the stage you are in now. Additionally, it will allow you to help others who are dealing with something that you have already faced. It is important to understand however that not all support groups are the same. Based on the participants, some are more geared for adult children while others for spouses. Finding the right one will add to the benefit.Many people have family members as an important piece of the support team. To avoid conflict and perhaps crisis, it is key to have open communication and assure that everyone is on the same page. Putting some of the pieces into place can help the caregiver prevent some crisis and provide a better overall quality of life for everyone._____________________________Editors Note: This article was contributed by Mary Underwoods, Vice President of Memory Care Services for Artis Senior Living of the West Shore.

Yale University Department of Emergency Medicine, Section of Emergency Medical Services is assisting elders and others with impaired mobility through a community based program known as PRIDE (Participant Centered Referrals for Increased Independence and Decreased Disability in the Elderly, through a $7.15 million grant from the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Innovation.Eligible participants for PRIDE live at home and have: 1) called 9-1-1 because they were unable to get up without assistance, 2) fallen in the past or are at risk of falling or 3) fallen, been transported to a local emergency department to be seen because of a fall, and are subsequently released to their home. Additional criteria for eligibility include: having no complaint of, or apparent, acute illness or injury, and with the ability to understand and sign the informed consent document, or having a designated proxy for healthcare decisions present who can do so on their behalf.PRIDE Team Members together with visiting nurses in the community, coordinate closer follow up with primary care providers to identify fall risks and address any unapparent medical conditions, access community resources, and implement evidence-based fall prevention strategies.Because those who have fallen have many risk factors such as advanced age, cognitive and physical disability, limited mobility, social isolation, and polypharmacy according to the published literature, PRIDEs community interventions are modeled after evidence-based fall prevention strategies.PRIDEs purpose is to intervene on behalf of these Seniors before they are injured or require hospitalization. The model is to a PRIDE Team Member visit the home once the individual has enrolled in PRIDE, to gather data related to recent health and fall risk; they in turn coordinate a visit by a visiting nurse to assess need/eligibility for services, and arrange for an appointment and (if necessary) transportation for the study participant to visit his or her primary physician.Ultimately, PRIDE strives to enhance seniors ability to live safely and independently in their own homes, while decreasing their reliance on the 9-1-1 system and hospital emergency departments.Editors Note: This article was submitted by the Joanne McGovern, Senior Program Coordinator with the PRIDE Program, Yale University Department of Emergency Medicine, Section of Emergency Medical Services and may be reached at 203-785-4676

Families often struggle to honor their parents wishes; to help mom and dad stay at home as long as possible. But oftentimes, moving into a more structured environment creates a step up in quality of life for seniors. While people may feel reluctant to leave their homes for a nursing or assisted living facility (ALF) in Denver, seniors in these settings are often happier, healthier, more functional, socially active, and live longer than those who continue to stay in their homes.These facilities are professional at caring for seniors and provide a valuable spectrum of services, including:Structure in daily routine and care.Experience in caring for the elderly, especially those who may be frail or unwell.Employees who feel a special calling to work with older people; they are dedicated to their work and the residents.Natural opportunities for social interaction, activities, and recreation.Healthy, nutritious food.An extra set of eyes watching to be sure medications are administered appropriately and are having the intended effect.Rehabilitation and therapy services readily available to those who need them.There has recently been a movement around culture change and resident-centered care aimed at making nursing homes and ALFs a more desirable place to live. This philosophy puts the needs and desires of the resident first and foremost and gives them more control over their lives, so they can live more like they do at home with more freedom and appropriate independence, making more of their own lifestyle choices. For example, residents may choose to:Say up late or sleep in late without being disturbedTake the nutritional supplements they desireChoose their own clothingClose the door for privacyIf you are confronting the important decision about whether to move to a nursing home or assisted living in Denver, don't be afraid to ask plenty of questions. Inquire about culture and attitudes. And remember that most facilities offer a good, supportive alternative to living alone at home.Mike Wasserman, MD, is a co-founder of Senior Care of Colorado, PC, a primary care medical group serving the needs of older adults throughout the Denver Metro region. For information or to schedule an appointment, call 303-306-4321.

Assisted Living Locators is a free referral and placement service, and we have been matchmaking seniors with caring providers since 2003.Since theres no cost for our service, youll be free to access the best senior care options, information and resources available for you and your loved one. You can rest assured that the services, communities and homes that we recommend have been pre-screened and personally matched to your loved ones needs. Whats more, our compassionate professionals will be at your side every step of the way, advocating for your family to ensure that everyone will feel comfortable and at home with the decisions that are made.Just like you, we cant do it alone, which is why Assisted Living Locators is at the center of a network of extraordinary community partners who share one common goal: bringing excellence and dignity to senior care services and living solutions. So, wherever you are or whenever you need information, we invite you to come to us with questions about in-home help and personal care, adult day care, respite, independent living and retirement apartments, assisted living homes and communities, memory care and access to other related professional resources, including financial, legal, and real estate. If you cant tour facilities in-person because of location or physical limitations, you can always view your options any time from the comfort of your own home with our extensive website.Were here and ready to help you now. Our process is easy and individualized for every client. We will start with an in-depth personalizedassessment of your needs so we can get to know you and your family. Based on our analysis of your unique circumstances, we will provide our best recommendations to meet your needs. We will provide hands-on guidance and feedback to help you evaluate services, amenities and care options until you find the best choice. Once your family has made a decision, we will facilitate your transition and provide on-going support and follow up for you and your loved one.Leave the worry to us.Editor Notes: Contact Jaime Daniels at 941.479.3500 or email JDaniels@AssistedLivingLocators.com. Visit us online at www.AssistedLivingManasota.com

To learn more aboutGentle Shepherd Home Care,CLICK HERE.The internet has its benefits to help keep people connected, but there are also many negative effects of technology. Sadly, seniors often reap those negative effects due to isolation, a willingness to trust, and the seniors vulnerability. To combat these statistics and to protect our loved ones in senior care, we may need to help seniors set healthy boundaries with their devices.Educate Your Seniors About TechnologyTechnology has been part of our lives for many years, but there are still people who dont understand how it can affect them. To convince seniors to use technology wisely, they must understand how too much technology can negatively affect them.TheVision Councilreports 60% of adults suffer from digital eye strain, causing discomfort, headaches and blurred vision.TheNational Sleep Foundationcorrelates heavy cell phone use and sleep disorders.Social media overuse has been linked to depression and suicidal ideation.Excessive use of digital devices can impact physical health through inactivity.Technology does have some good benefits when used wisely. The trick, at any age, is to find the balance between using technology and having time away from the devices. Seniors may need help finding that balance, even though they are adults.Tips For Setting Tech BoundariesTheres no reason to completely disconnect from technology. Talking about technology use with your parent can help you introduce best practices:Limiting time on digital devices.Dont check notifications immediately on waking up.Block accounts that make you feel negative.Decrease notifications to keep productivity high and to lessen distractions.Turn off devices at night to respect sleep patterns.Find time to interact with real people each day while putting your device down.Seniors may need to find ways to keep themselves busy to replace screen time. Virtual connections arent the same as interacting in person. It may take a planned strategy to adjust a relationship with technology by making sure that your senior has people to connect with to prevent overuse of technology.Seniors and technology can be a good mix, but technology needs to be used mindfully. If you need assistance helping seniors set healthy boundaries with their devices,contactour home care providers at Gentle Shepherd Home Care. We can provide education, care, and assistance to help you take care of your seniors.

Dental implants are artificial tooth roots used to support a restoration for a missing tooth or teeth, helping to stop or prevent jaw bone loss. The dental implant procedure is categorized as a form of prosthetic (artificial replacement) dentistry, but also is considered a form of cosmetic dentistry.People who have lost teeth might feel too self-conscious to smile or talk. Additionally, biting irregularities caused by tooth loss can have a negative effect on eating habits, leading to secondary health problems like malnutrition.By replacing missing teeth, dental implants provide people with the strength and stability required to eat all the foods they love, without struggling to chew. Additionally, dental implants stimulate and maintain jaw bone, preventing bone loss and helping to maintain facial features.There are many advantages to dental implants, including:Improved appearance. Dental implants look and feel like your own teeth. And because they are designed to fuse with bone, they become permanent.Improved speech. With poor-fitting dentures, the teeth can slip within the mouth causing you to mumble or slur your words. Dental implants allow you to speak without the worry that teeth might slip.Improved comfort. Because they become part of you, implants eliminate the discomfort of removable dentures.Easier eating. Sliding dentures can make chewing difficult. Dental implants function like your own teeth, allowing you to eat your favorite foods with confidence and without painImproved self-esteem. Dental implants can give you back your smile and help you feel better about yourself.Improved oral health. Dental implants don't require reducing other teeth, as a tooth-supported bridge does. Because nearby teeth are not altered to support the implant, more of your own teeth are left intact, improving long-term oral health. Individual implants also allow easier access between teeth, improving oral hygiene.Durability. Implants are very durable and will last many years. With good care, many implants last a lifetime.Convenience. Removable dentures are just that; removable. Dental implants eliminate the embarrassing inconvenience of removing dentures, as well as the need for messy adhesives to keep them in place.Editors note: Article submitted by Dr. V. H. Bashi a dentist in Colorado Springs who places implants. He may be contacted at vhbashi@qwestoffice.net or 719-528-8292

Change is hard. Making a move in uncertain times can be scary; navigating all your options can be downright confusing.Assisted living communities are supportive environments meant to help prolong the independence of you or your loved one. This housing option is often overlooked because many dont realize it is a viable option until there is an emergency. There is often resistance because there are many misconceptions surrounding this senior living option, including affordability, access and services provided.Once you start to look around, comparing the various communities is no simple task; from giant continuums of care to very small specialty units, and your job as the consumer is to find which place suits your needs as close as possible for as long as possible. One very important factor for most people when researching communities, besides the quality of care and location, is cost. Do I rent or join a community with a buy-in? Is an all-inclusive program better, or does the a la cart pricing structure work better for me? Looking at your finances is the first step to determine which option is right for you.If you have a long-term care insurance policy, for instance, you want to go to a licensed assisted living facility for your services so you can utilize those funds for your care. If you are a wartime veteran or spouse, you would want to make sure that the community you choose supports the Aid & Attendance benefit.One thing that can very easily get overlooked in the decision-making process, especially if it is an emergency, is what happens if/when the money runs out?In many cases, the options are very limited and it is your responsibility to find your next home. Some communities, however, have financial programs available that allow the resident to age in place through subsidy programs such as a SCO or PACE program, or in some cases GAFC. These programs are a great way to keep your loved one in their assisted living if the community offers it. At the end of the day, knowing your options will help you find the best place for your needs and a wonderful new home for you or your loved one. Written by Stephanie Nordstrom, Director of Admissions & Marketing at Christopher Heights of Marlborough, an Assisted Living Community. She can be reached out 508-281-8001 or snordstrom@christopherheights.com. 

Memory Loss, Forgetfulness, and Aging: Whats Normal and Whats Not?Forgetfulness and memory loss may be a normal part of aging. As we age, all parts of the body change, including the brain. As a result, some people may notice that it takes longer to learn new things or their memory is not as good as before.Today, were looking at some memory-related topics to give you a better understanding of what to expect with memory and aging.How does memory change with age?As you age, physiological changes occur that may cause problems in your normal brain functions. These are functions that most of us simply take for granted without a second thought. When functional issues arise, it might take you longer to learn and recall information; or you may not be as fast as you once were.As such, you might mistake these slowing mental processes as being actual memory loss. Fortunately, many of these functions return if you give yourself time. Therefore, certain brain changes are inevitable during aging. However, memory problems are not one of them.This is why it is important to understand the difference between normal age-related forgetfulness and symptoms that may indicate cognitive problems.How can I help my elderly with memory loss?The best way to approach someone who suffers from memory loss is to do so as you would a child. What does this mean? Essentially, it means using simple language while maintaining an encouraging tone. As such, you want to exhibit positive expressions, make eye contact, and use open gestures.And above all else, it means employing a lot of patience. Lets look at some keep tips you can exercise to help older adults with memory loss.Mind Your ToneEven if its difficult to see that your loved ones cognitive abilities are declining, you should try to be optimistic when talking to them. People with dementia may not understand everything you say or ask, but they will definitely notice your emotions and expressions.For example, if you look anxious, worried, or upset, they too will become anxious or upset. Therefore, speak positively with an uplifting tone. Be sure to smile and let yourself be optimistic about them. Try using gentle language and loving gestures.Use Short Sentences and WordsYou dont need to yell or speak in an overly simple way. But you should speak slowly, clearly, and evenly while using simple words. Try using one- and two-syllable words to express what youre trying to say.Lowering the natural pitch of your voice can also help to get the attention of your loved one. Just remember that if your loved one needs you to repeat what you said many times, dont let it frustrate you.Even after implementing these tips into your vernacular they still dont understand you, go to the next step. You can always try these techniques again at a later time.Choose a Quiet SettingYou should try to limit background noise as much as possible. If your children are running around and making noise, ask them to play in another room and play as quietly as they can. Turn off the TV or anything else that could serve as a distraction.Moreover, if your relative lives in a memory care home or nursing home, close the door during your visit to reduce noise from within the facility. Then, use simple techniques to get the attention of your loved one and try to maintain your communication.Also, be sure to call your senior by their name. If he or she doesnt remember your name, dont be angry; simply identify who you are and move on. Remember to make eye contact, too, as it is very important in communicating with someone suffering from memory loss.Light, gentle touches on their shoulders, arms, and hands also help to establish a line of communication.Use Names as Much as PossibleAnd speaking of using their name during your social interaction, the same goes for family and friends when discussing them. Whenever possible, use direct names (pronouns) rather than nouns like he or she, him or her.Memory senior care is a challenging venture. But using proper names is a big step in overcoming cognitive decline. Thats because the use of these names helps to trigger memories in loved ones whose brain function isnt what it used to be.Whats more, names are more familiar compared to simple nouns. You may find that speaking clearly with proper names triggers a stimulating response. Give it a try, and be sure to maintain this method in your conversations moving forward.4 Ways to Improve Memory for SeniorsRejuvenating brain function is a challenging proposition. But there are some helpful tips to keep your brain sharp and your thinking healthy. Consider each method a mental exercise that you can employ to improve your mental health.The good news is that you can implement these tips in an attempt to help seniors suffering from memory loss, dementia, or Alzheimers disease.Stay OrganizedTry to limit distractions and dont attempt to take on too much at once. If you focus on the information you are trying to keep, you are more likely to recall it at a later time when you need it.Keep Brain Functions ActiveJust as physical activity helps keep the body healthy, mental stimulation activities help keep the brain healthy and may prevent memory loss. Do crossword puzzles, play bridge, or take up playing a musical instrument, for example.Stay Physically ActiveJust as important is physical activity, which increases blood flow to the whole body, including the brain. This may help maintain your memory and keep your mental health sharp.SocializeSocial interaction helps fight depression and stress, both of which can lead to memory loss. Look for opportunities to get together with relatives and friends. This is especially important if your elder lives alone.If you have questions regarding what services Mary T offers for patients with memory loss,contact ustoday. Well do our best to provide more information and figure out the best plan for you or your loved one.

Neighborhood House Adult Day Services are open Monday Friday, 7:30 AM- 5:30 PM, and centers are located near downtown Salt Lake and Cottonwood Heights.Neighborhood House enriches, empowers and educates children and adults through quality affordable day care and support services. A sliding fee scale based on families ability to pay and door-to-door transportation service offer convenience and affordability for family caregivers.Programming focuses on the specific needs of aging and/or disabled adults. Engaging activities, consistent staff interaction, and regular meals can help older and disabled adults maintain their physical and cognitive health, while simultaneously providing valuable respite for their caregivers. Therapeutic recreation activities are designed to address social, emotional, physical, and cognitive domains, and experienced staff are supported by student interns from local universities and colleges. Other program features include field trips, music therapy, monthly service projects, and intergenerational activities. Individualized therapy plans are implemented upon enrollment and client progress is regularly evaluated. Additionally, we provide medication management, nutritious meals, and are the only adult day service program in Salt Lake County that contracts with Veterans Affairs for daytime supervised care.The average client at Neighborhood House is 80 years old, with age-related cognitive impairment, dementia, and/or other chronic conditions. Younger adult clients are cognitively challenged or physically disabled and benefit from supervised care on a temporary or permanent basis. Collectively, our clients are offered 11 daily activities - all of which are designed to promote independence, feelings of usefulness, social interaction, cognitive stimulation, and physical exercise. Intergenerational activities with Childrens Center students integrate Neighborhood House adult clients into a larger population, further reducing social isolation and offering young children an opportunity to better understand aging or disabled adults in their surrounding community. To learn more about Neighborhood House, or to schedule a tour, visit www.nhutah.orgContact Information:Riverside Adult Day Center423 South 1100 WestSalt Lake City, Utah 84104(801) 363-4593Email: sdcfront@nhutah.orgCottonwood Adult Day Center1580 East Vine Street (6100 South)Salt Lake City, Utah 84121(801) 277-3264Email: cottonadmin@nhutah.orgEditors Note: This article was submitted by Sarah Scott, MS, MBA. She is the Adult Day Services Director at Neighborhood House and may be reached at 801-363-4593, or by email at adsdirector@nhutah.org

One of the challenges that all hospice caregivers face is to help dispel common myths and reassure patients and families about the realities of effective end-of-life care.Consider these mistaken notions about hospice care:Myth: Hospice is a place.Reality: Hospice is not a place it is a philosophy of care that focuses on enhancing peoples comfort and quality of life during their final months of life. Hospice care can be administered at the patients home, hospice inpatient units as well as hospitals, nursing homes and assisted living communities or residential care facilities. It includes expert pain management by treating physical symptoms, while providing emotional and spiritual support.Myth: Hospice means giving up.Reality: Hospice care is about life, some of the most important moments of life. Hospice aims to make life as comfortable, enjoyable and meaningful as possible. The care is provided by highly skilled, interdisciplinary teams of palliative care experts, including physicians, nurses, home health aides, social workers, chaplains, bereavement specialists and volunteers.Myth: Hospice care is only for the very old.Reality: People of all ages face death, so age is not a determining factor for hospice care. Hospice care is customized to meet the patients individual needs, focusing on comfort and dignity for the patient and support for loved ones.Myth: Hospice care is expensive.Reality: Hospice is covered by Medicare, Medicaid, and most private insurance plans. To be eligible for hospice under Medicare, the patient must be entitled to Part A of Medicare and certified as being terminally ill, with a prognosis of six months or less if the disease runs its course, by the patients own physician and a hospice physician.Myth: Hospice is for religious people.Reality: Hospice serves patients from all cultural backgrounds and faith traditions as well as those who profess they are not connected with a faith community. Spiritual support offered by chaplains is an essential component of holistic healthcare and invaluable for those dealing with end-of-life needs. However, speaking to a chaplain is a patients choice.Since 1978, VITAS Healthcare has helped define and continuously elevate the standards of care for hospice and is committed to helping patients stay at home, or in their preferred setting.Editors Note: Brenda J. Iliff is the executive director ofHazelden in Naples, Florida, a part of the Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation.They can be reached at 866-261-3734.

Health care costs have been on the rise over the past few years, with health spending for Americans costing more than $8,680 per person, according to 2011 data from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.1 Making matters worse, about 80 percent of older adults have at least one chronic condition, such as heart disease, cancer or diabetes, driving up the need for prescriptions and treatments that can add up over time.2However, saving money on your medicine and your overall wellness doesn't have to be a pain-staking endeavor. Here are some tips you can use to help lower your health care costs while still maintaining your health.Ask your physician if there is a generic version of your medication, said Dr. Richard Smith, Medical Director of Senior Products for Humana's Intermountain Region. Generics, which are typically 30-80 percent less expensive than brand name drugs, are equivalent in dosage, form, safety and strength.3, 4 Each year, generic alternatives for top-selling brand name drugs go off patent, helping you save money on common medications, including blood thinners and cholesterol fighters.Another way to cut costs is to see if your health plans pharmacy benefit manager offers a mail-order pharmacy service. An alternative to traditional community pharmacies, mail-order prescription delivery provides 30, 60 and 90-day supplies of your medications shipped directly to your home, usually with significant savings off the regular retail price.The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates health care costs for chronic disease treatment account for more than 75 percent of national health expenditures.5 Be proactive and get regular checkups and screenings from your physician, Dr. Smith said. These visits are usually covered by most health insurance plans, which can help monitor for and prevent chronic conditions before they become too serious and require treatment.In fact, the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act has made preventive screenings more available and more affordable than before. Under the act, Medicare and new private-insurance policies are required to either completely or significantly cover the cost of 45 medical tests and services currently shown to be most effective in early disease detection and prevention, such as mammograms, diabetes, colon cancer, prostate cancer and cardiovascular issues. For a complete list covered by Medicare, visit http://www.medicare.gov/coverage/preventive-and-screening-services.html.Health care plans often provide a number of health and wellness discounts from deals on nutritional supplements to discounts on vision care to help members keep their costs down. For instance, health benefits company Humana Inc. offers its members various deals through its online Savings Center, including discounts for everything from colds to heartburn medications.The key to saving on health care costs and using these tips effectively is planning, Dr. Smith said. It might take a little bit of scheduling to order your medications ahead of time or make an appointment for a screening; however, the payoff, in terms of the impact on both your health and wallet, is worth it.Editors Note: This article was submitted by Humana. For more information on Humana senior products in Utah call 1-800-884-8328.1 https://www.cms.gov/Research-Statistics-Data-and-Systems/Statistics-Trends-and-Reports/NationalHealthExpendData/NationalHealthAccountsHistorical.html2 http://www.cdc.gov/chronicdisease/resources/publications/AAG/aging.htm3 http://www.gphaonline.org/about/generic-medicines/4 http://www.fda.gov/drugs/resourcesforyou/consumers/questionsanswers/ucm100100.htm5 http://www.cdc.gov/workplacehealthpromotion/businesscase/reasons/rising.html

To learn more aboutAlzheimer's Association of Utah, CLICK HERE.Learning that someone you care about has been diagnosed with Alzheimers or other related dementia can be life changing.Coming to terms with the diagnosis requires time. Immediate reactions of denial and fear are normal and may help you and the person diagnosed process the grief you are feeling.Process of acceptanceFinding purposeGetting supportThe process of acceptancePerhaps you tried to encourage the person living with dementia to learn about their diagnosis, only to be told nothing is wrong. Perhaps you may have been hesitant to learn more yourself for fear of the future. Whatever the circumstance, accepting a diagnosis of Alzheimers disease or a related dementia requires time to absorb information about the disease before you might be ready to learn more.Allowing time to process the diagnosis is an important first step to adjust to this new normal. The process of acceptance is just as important for the care partner as it is for the newly diagnosed person. No two people deal with the diagnosis in exactly the same way. There is no right approach and some days may be more difficult than others, but dont be discouraged.Allowing yourself time to grieve and mourn over the current and future losses you and the diagnosed person may experience can be healthy. The sooner you are able to accept the diagnosis, the better suited you will be to help the person living with dementia move closer to acceptance too.Individuals with the disease acknowledge that while it often takes time to accept their diagnosis, specific actions initiated by the care partner help in this process.Patience, flexibility and open communication can provide reassurance that the person with the disease does not have to face their diagnosis alone. For many, the simple reinforcement from their care partner that we are in this together is the most memorable act of support.Consider these tips to help the person in the early stage of the disease come to terms with his or her diagnosis:Provide time for the individual to feel sad about how his or her identity is changing as a result of the diagnosis.Emphasize the roles and responsibilities that are still significant to the individuals identity, i.e. grandfather, mother, daughter, etc.Encourage the person to speak with a trusted friend, minister or even a professional counselor, to talk through difficult emotions.Sharing the diagnosis with others can open up new relationships and connections to people you did not realize were willing to support you. For others, hearing of the diagnosis may test relationships and some friends and family may react with denial, or pull away in ways that reflect their misconceptions about Alzheimers disease.Yet, it can be empowering to share the diagnosis with others. Be open with friends and family about the changes that are taking place. Educate them on the disease and tell them how they can be supportive.Maintaining a sense of self and finding purposeA diagnosis of Alzheimers or other dementia is often accompanied by uncertainty around ones identity and life purpose. New challenges presented by living with the disease including stigma and misperceptions can cause the person to question his or her capabilities and, in turn, his or her identity. Its not uncommon for a person living in the early stage to ask the question Who am I?One way for people in the early stage of the disease to move beyond the loss of identity is to find ways to engage in activities that bring meaning and purpose to their life. For some, this means exploring skills they already possess, while others may choose to engage in new activities that bring a fresh sense of purpose.Finding a new purpose can help confirm that Alzheimers does not have to define a person; it only becomes a part of who they are. Consider the tips below to help the person in early stage find meaning and purpose:Discuss what brings meaning and purpose to his or her life.Encourage the person to stay involved in activities he or she enjoys.Consider activities you can do together.Work together to identify opportunities at home or in the community that can leverage his or her strengths and interests.Discuss what new activities the person may be interested in trying.Encourage the individual to get connected with others who are living with the disease to learn what they are doing to remain active and engaged in life.Getting supportA diagnosis of Alzheimers or dementia is life-altering for both the person living with the disease and family and friends.You play an important part in providing support to the person who has been diagnosed. Along the way, you will need the support of others, too.Often times, care partners look to family and friends first. Once youve identified trusted friends or family members, be specific about how you would like to engage their support. This can be assistance with transportation to or from medical appointments, help with social outings or simply having someone to talk with.There are also community programs, support groups and online social networks that provide the opportunity to learn from others who have a friend or family member with dementia.We often hear care partners say that they are looking for support from people who "really understand because they've been there, too."

If your spouse has entered a nursing home, you know the governments harsh rules create a tremendous financial strain on the healthy spouse. The general rules of Medicaid for married families only allow the healthy spouse to keep half of the available assets, up to a maximum of about $130,000.Lets consider the situation of Jane and John Jones. John is a stroke patient who needs nursing home care. The Jones family has worked their entire lives to save about $400,000 for retirement. Johns unfortunate stroke is going to result in Jane losing $270,000 to the nursing home over 2 years. In addition, once the money is gone, the State will even require some of Johns monthly Social Security check to be paid to the nursing home.WHY? Why does our government system require Jane to go broke because her husband had a stroke? It shouldnt work that way!Jane starts doing research and meets with a Certified Elder Law Attorney*. After reviewing the situation, the attorney recommends a strategy called a Spousal Annuity plan. This strategy allows Jane to convert nearly all the money she would otherwise lose into an annuity for her own benefit. Rather than losing $270,000, Jane turns the asset into an income stream that she can use to pay her bills for years. Shes allowed to protect almost all her assets through a well-designed asset protection plan!Does this sound too good to be true? Its not. You just have to know the rules and how they apply to your specific situation.Medicaid rules are complex, and you should not assume this strategy will work for your family. A certified Elder Law Attorney* can help you determine if this (or another) strategy can help save your assets. A nursing home admission is a legal problem requiring a lawyers assistance. Dont navigate this alone. Our lawyers are available for no-cost phone and Zoom consultations. Call Today!Editors Note: This article was written by Certified Elder Law Attorney* Tim Sechler, Esq., Sechler Law Firm, LLC. See our ad on the Back Cover or contact us by phone at 724-841-1393 or on the web atwww.SechlerLawFirm.com. *Certified as an Elder Law Attorney by the National Elder Law Foundation as accredited by the Pennsylvania Supreme Court.

You may have thought you had it covered by arranging for a caregiving service to help prepare Moms meals. Its true that seniors value the meal preparation assistance they receive from a family or professional caregiver. Eating that delicious home-cooked meal, after all, is the fun part, right?But when you sit down to dine with an older loved one, do you struggle to know what to talk about? A seniors world may have shrunk to the size of their four walls. Even so, mealtime conversations are an important part of the dining experience.According to Dr. Amy DAprix, an expert on aging. Sharing memories is a great way to deepen your relationship with an aging relative, DAprix said. But sometimes we all need help thinking of new and meaningful things to talk about.That's why DAprix created Caring CardsTM. This packet of playing card look-alikes features more than 50 questions on a wide range of topics that can help you engage a senior loved one in meaningful conversation. The Caring Cards are available as part of the Home Instead Senior Care networks Craving Companionship SM program at MealsAndCompanionship.com. Our goal is to provide you and your loved ones with personalized care to live full, healthy and happy lives.Editors Note: This article was submitted by Home Instead Senior Care, 239-226-0007 or 239-541-4133.

Aquatic therapyrefers to treatments and exercises performed in water for relaxation, fitness, physical rehabilitation, and othertherapeuticbenefit. Typically a qualifiedaquatic therapistgives constant attendance to a person receivingtreatmentin a heatedtherapypool. Aquatic therapy is well suited for seniors and keeps both the body and mind fit.#listing_mgr{7 basic_search}#

As nearly 200,000 men and women of all ages and backgrounds across the nation can attest, the rewards of belonging to a Garden Club go far beyond the pure pleasure of growing things. Joining a local Garden Club is a great way to green your thumb, but a membership also provides an opportunity to expand your interests and build lifelong friendships while bettering your community and the environment. A Garden Club will give you access to people who are experienced in gardening in your locality and you will find their assistance in valuable. Our National Garden Clubs Conservation pledge is: I pledge to protect and conserve our natural resources of planet earth and to promote education so that we may become caretakers (stewards) of our air, water, forest, land and wild life. Garden Clubs of Idaho, Inc. is a 501 3 nonprofit educational organization and a member of National Garden Clubs, Inc.. Garden Clubs of Idaho, Inc. is state wide organization associated with the Pacific Region of National Garden Clubs, Inc. and National Garden Clubs, Inc.. Garden Clubs of Idaho, Inc. has fifteen Garden Clubs and almost 500 members. Seven of the Garden Clubs are located in the Treasure Valley. Activities of our clubs include civic beautification funded through grants, charitable donations, and fundraising. Clubs annually sponsor horticulture education and seminars and regularly organize presentations about landscaping, cultivating and growing a wide variety of plants and vegetation. In addition we award annual scholarships to students for the study of horticulture. Flower Show Judges Schools and Landscape Design Schools are offered to our members. Clubs also compete for State, Regional and National awards on a regular basis. Garden Clubs of Idaho, Inc. encourages anyone interested in becoming a member of a Garden Club to contact any of the Garden Cubs listed below or the State Membership Chairman, Janet Petersen at janetnpeter@gmail.com. Go on; why not give it a try. Oct. 2013 Southwest District Garden Clubs of Idaho Garden Clubs of Idaho, Inc. State President: Karen Mallon 208-853-6108 mallonkl@gmail.com Ada Gardeners President: Beth Suhr 208-375-9310 bethstamp28@gmail.com Golden Garden Club President: Karen Mallon 208-853-6108 mallonkl@gmail.com Long Valley Gardeners President: Jan Morrison 208-382-5613 idasambaho@yahoo.com Merry Tillers Garden Club President: Maggie Williamson 208-871-2718 maggiewilliamson@mac.com Nampa Garden Club President: Cynthia Borron 208-899-6521 cynthiaborron@netzero.net Owyhee Gardeners President: Judy MacKenzie 208-896-4441 trublecumin@gmail.com Payette Valley Gardeners President: Maxine Walker 208-642-6686

To learn more about Senior Care Associates, CLICK HERE.If you are living at home in need ofcare from your family, a home careagency, independent living, assistedliving or private paying in a skillednursing facility you may be eligiblefor up to $2,295 per month to coverthose expenses.This is a tax-free VA pensioncalled Aid and Attendance whichwas put into place in 1952. It isdirectly deposited into your bankaccount such as social security.This additional money can be usedto cover your care expenditures asyou are aging. This is NOT a welfareprogram like Medicaid. You can owna home and have significant moneyin your assets to still qualify.Areas of Eligibility:90 days active duty, one day ofservice during war time and notdishonorably discharged.Care being provided from family,home care, independent living,assisted living and private pay ina nursing home.Care includes dressing assistance, bathing, medicationreminders, walking assistance,transfers, toileting, and mealpreparation. Custodial Care dueto frailness or memory loss.Income would include socialsecurity, pension, retirement,rental income etc.Assets in your checking, savings, cds, stocks/bonds, mutualfunds, IRAs, and 401ks.Your home is not included as anasset unless it is sold.How long does it take to get approved? It is taking 1-3 months toget approved.The VA has a 3 year look back intoany asset transfers such as movingmoney into a trust, annuity, or gifting money to family.Please call Dennis Autrey tosee if you may be eligible. 'Editors Note: This article was submitted by Dennis Autrey, Marketing Director for Senior Care Associates, LLC He may be reached at 801-424-1444 orby email at: dennis@scaiusa.com www.seniorcareassociates.com

When deciding to move, simplify surroundings, or transition to a new quality of life, Senior Move Management professionals assist older adults and their families by partnering to create a personalized overall transition and implementation plan. Many people find the physical and emotional tasks associated with a move overwhelming. These changes, especially organizing and downsizing the amount of items accumulated over years, can be particularly difficult for Seniors who have lived in their same home for 30, 40, or 50 years.When hiring a Senior Move Manager, clients and their families reduce stress and relax during the move or transition while leaving the details and hard work to an expert!Oftentimes families are willing to help, but they have limited time due to work schedules, minimal vacation time, being geographically dispersed, and/or obligations at their home. These factors delay the downsizing tasks and ultimately increase the costs associated with the transition. Senior Move Management Professionals help facilitate the transition for everyone involved using their extensive knowledge of resources to reduce the length of time and profitably disposition unwanted items, saving clients time and money overall. Services provided vary by company, but most Senior Move Managers can help with planning for a part or full solution to the following:Developing an overall move or downsizing planOrganizing, sorting, packing, moving, unpacking, and setting up a new homeCustomized floor plansArranging for the most profitable overall solution to the disposition of unwanted items through auctions, donations, clean outs, or a combination of solutionsArranging shipments to family and/or storageRelated additional services, such as hiring a handyman, cleaning, and preparing the home to be sold or rented.Most Senior Move Managers offer a free consultation. The goal is to partner with clients on creating a personalized plan showing how their move can be simplified. Clients can then sit back, relax, enjoy, and leave the details to a professional for the best move ever!Editors Note: This article was submitted by Troy & Shannon Stromme, Owners of Integrity Transitions, LLC. They may be reached at 970-690-7360 or by email at IntegrityTransitionsCO@gmail.com.

Did you know that cannabis can be appreciated in more ways than combusting or vaporizing? In fact edible and topical use can provide consumers with optimal therapeutic value. Many patients and customers find comfort from day to day pain as well as relief from their daily pharmaceutical regimen using some of the innovative cannabis products on the market.Apothecanna specializes in cannabis infused lotions, salves, and lip-balm. The regular strength Pain Cream is a reasonably priced introductory product for the first time cannabis consumer. The Extra Strength Pain Cream is recommended for experienced cannabis users; it is described as soothing and comforting. The Lip Buzz lip balm, while not intoxicating to the lips, has a wonderful healing effect for those have been too exposed to sometimes intense Colorado wind, frigid and dry temperatures, and sun. Topicals are advantageous in alleviating a wide spectrum of physical ailments including arthritis, joint pain, aching muscles, painful muscle tensions, and a variety of skin conditions.Mary's Medicinals, has developed a wide variety of products promoting the therapeutic benefits of cannabinoids like CBC, CBD, THC, and CBN as well as many different delivery mediums with scalable dosage options. These cannabinoids are linked to relief from pain, cramps, spasms, and nausea with anti-inflammatory properties. Mary's Transdermal Patches have gained a reputation for long lasting relief. The dosing of the 10mg and 20mg patches can be scaled down by tailoring the patches to varying shapes and sizes. Mary's Transdermal Pens are dispensed in 2mg doses of cream. Pens are easily applied and stored and the effects match the qualities of the patches. Thus, this product is great for patients or customers who need a targeted dosage greater than the patches can provide. Mary's also packages their CBD and CBN extracts into 5mg capsules. Capsules are an excellent low dose, yet scalable, with similar effects as the patches and pens. Capsules can have a more immediate effect that transdermal application. Mary's Medicinal has great customer outreach through their webpage, customer surveys, and a toll-free 1-800 number that connects you to a registered nurse for guidance.Edible products are carried for a wide variety of ailments. The Dixie Elixir company markets elixirs, tinctures, mints, capsules, and chocolates. Their 50/50 CBD:THC Synergy Tincture has been a hit for customers who are seeking a controllable high CBD edible option. Many patients use a few doses of the Dixie Tinctures for sleep aid and pain relief. Dixie 10mg Mints are an excellent scalable option for customers who need a quick, discreet, and controllable product. Mints come in two varieties: Relaxing Mint, for pain relief and sleep aid and Awakening Mint, for pain relief.Editors Note: This article was written by Rich Fordham of Choice Organics and may be reached at 970-472-6337.

LTC Diversion or Medicaid Waiver is amount Medicaid pays to a facility which is dependent upon a resident's income.= #listing_mgr{1 basic_search}#

For more information on the author, Manasota Care Services, CLICK HERE!When it comes to driving and mobility, being safety-conscious is a good thing. We typically grow concerned about senior drivers, but rarely do we consider the safety when seniors are being transported by a non-emergency medical transportation provider. More specifically, how safe is your loved one when they require assisted ambulatory, wheelchair, or even stretcher transportation?With a rapidly growing elderly population, an increasing number of seniors and disabled people are in need of assisted transportation to and from medical appointments, physical therapy, personal errands, family functions, and more. Especially for those with mobility challenges, accidents can happen within their residence, while being assisted to the vehicle, while loading and securing the passenger, traveling to their appointment, and then again when being returned.The level of required assistance is in direct proportion to the patients level of mobility. A senior requiring only a steady hand or firm arm to hold while ambulating requires much less direct assistance as compared to someone requiring wheelchair or stretcher transportation. Similarly, if the patient is bariatric, chances are very good that multiple attendants will be required to safely secure and transport the patient.When considering a transportation provider, many things that need to be considered to ensure your loved one is safe during the entire transportation process:1. Is the transportation provider properly insured? For those relying on rideshare or independent providers, chances are very good they do not have proper for-hire insurance. Hence, should there be an accident, passengers will not be covered.2. Is the driver(s) literally capable of assisting your loved one? Are they knowledgable, knowing how to properly use the equipment, and are they physically fit, capable of literally assisting seniors to navigate stairs, thresholds, and possible inclines when sitting in a wheelchair or secured on a stretcher?3. What type of equipment does the transportation deploy? Is it safe, durable, and suitable for your loved one? When using the provider's wheelchair and stretcher, you want confidence and know the equipment is serviceable and well maintained.4. What are the driving habits of the driver(s)? Being concerned about a seniors driving ability might seem like common sense, but what about the driving habits and records of the drivers? Are they drug tested? Does their employer check their Motor Vehicle Report (MVR) for discrepancies, tickets, fines, DUIs?5. Does the driver invest the necessary time required to properly load and secure the wheelchair/stretcher or do they cut corners in an effort to expedite?6. Upon arrival at the destination, does the driver accompany your loved one all the way into their appointment and ensure they are properly checked in and received by facility staff?7. When the appointment is complete and your loved one is ready to be returned, does the transportation service arrive at a suitable time versus forcing your loved one to wait excessively?

For more information on the author Just Like Family Home Care, CLICK HERE.Are you wondering if its time to get your elderly loved one the help they need? Do you often find yourself thinking about whether or not to hire a live-in care provider to watch them? If so, then you should consider the signs its time to find home care.Its never too late to get them the help that they deserve. By looking into senior care, you will experience full peace of mind, knowing that theyre safe.See below for several signs that its time to look into live-in care providers in Naples. It can help you better understand when is it time to get home care for seniors.1. Not Eating WellPerhaps youve noticed that your elderly loved one hasnt been eating the same as they once did. Maybe youve even noticed that theyre losing a significant amount of weight.If thats the case, then they might be skipping out on meals or can no longer operate the kitchen the way that they once did. They might also find it increasingly difficult to run to the store for food items that they need to cook.A live-in caregiver can give the assistance that they desperately need. They can go out to shop for groceries, come back to the house, and make your loved one the meals that theyll chow down on.Once the meal is done, they can also help clean up the dining table and kitchen, wash dishes, and put away all the items for future meals.Be sure to reach out to a live-in referral companythat can help you find the right caregiver for your loved ones situation.2. Slow Recovery TimePerhaps youve grown concerned for your loved one because of an illness or injury that theyve recently suffered. You have noticed that theyre taking longer and longer to recover from health complications.These injuries and illnesses might also be more frequent, with no signs of that slowing down any time soon.If so, then youll want someone to be around them 24/7. As much as youd love to be around them all the time, you still have a career and your spouse/children to care for as well.Hiring a live-in care provider can help give you peace of mind. Even when youre not around, theres a specially-trained and well-educated live-in caregiver thats watching over them, giving them the best medical attention possible.Be sure to give your loved one time to adjust to the idea. If you rush them into it too quickly, they mightresist the caretheyre given.3. Their Memory Is FadingSometimes the biggest sign that your loved one needs help is when you notice that their memory is starting to fade. Sometimes its a sign of Alzheimers or Dementia, while other times it comes naturally as they age.No matter what the reason is for the memory loss, it will only continue to worsen. If their memory fails them while no one else is around, it could lead to a very serious situation.A live-in care provider will work tirelessly to keep an eye on them. Theyve been trained on how to work with patients that suffer fromAlzheimers and dementia, and how to get them to cooperate in moments of confusion.4. They Recently Had An AccidentDid your loved one recently fall and injure themselves? Was there a close call that you were (fortunately) there to help them with? If so, then you might be struggling with the eye-opening sign that they need constant supervision.Not only that, but your elderly loved one might not becomfortable with being left by themselves for any period of time. This is a clear sign that its time to get them live-in care from a specialist.If they were to have an accident while no one was around, then it might lead to a life-threatening situation. They might not be able to reach for the phone to call for help.5. They Seem LonelyNo one should ever have to feel alone in their own house. As much as you, your kids, and your siblings might try to keep them company, there will always be moments where your elderly loved one is alone.Not only are those moments a danger to their physical health, but their mental health as well.Live-in caregivers dont just focus on giving medical treatment to their patients. They have a passion for taking care of elderly people in need. They will build a friendship with your loved one and find different ways to hang out with them.That way, even when youre at work or running the kids around, youll know that your loved one is hanging out with a close friend around the clock!6. They Cant Drive AnymoreThere comes a time where all elderly people can no longer drive. Their worsening health makes it impossible for them to safely operate a vehicle.With a live-in caregiver, theyll have access to drive wherever they need to without having to wait for a loved one to pick them up.That way, you dont have to adjust your schedule every time they have a doctors appointment. The live-in care provider can take them wherever they need to go.Find The Right Home Care For Your Loved One TodayNow that you have seen several signs that its time to get home care for your loved one, be sure to use the right referral service for your needs.Be sure to read this article for more information on senior lonelinessand how you can help them cope with their emotional distress.

Weight loss is a topic that has been discussed and debated for decades, and it continues to be an important aspect of overall health and wellbeing. With the rise of obesity rates and related health issues, weight loss has become increasingly vital as people strive to prevent and manage conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and certain types of cancers. Many different methods for losing weight have been developed over the years, from fad diets to intense workout regimes, but the key to long-term success is adopting healthy lifestyle habits that can be maintained over time. This includes making dietary changes, exercising regularly, managing stress, and getting enough sleep. With dedication and commitment, weight loss is achievable for anyone seeking to improve their health and wellbeing.Looking to shed some unwanted pounds? Some of the best supplements for weight loss are:Caffeine: increases metabolism and suppresses appetite.Green tea extract: contains antioxidants that boost metabolism and aid in weight loss.Probiotics: improve gut health and aid in weight loss.Chromium: regulates blood sugar levels and reduces cravings for carbohydrates and sugar.Glucomannan: suppresses appetite and promotes a feeling of fullness.Conjugated linoleic acid (CLA): reduces body fat and increases lean muscle mass.Forskolin: increases metabolism and aids in weight loss.Bitter orange extract: suppresses appetite and boosts metabolism.Garcinia cambogia extract: blocks the formation of fat and suppresses appetite.Raspberry ketones: increase metabolism and promote weight loss.It's important to note that supplements should not be used as a replacement for a healthy diet and exercise. Always speak with a medical professional before beginning any supplement regimen.Article written by: Seniors Blue Book

"Kids are not just little adults!"If you work with a pediatrician for any length of time, you're sure to hear them say something like this. Because childhood is the only time in life that you're growing and developing, medical care in pediatrics is very different from other areas. Pediatricians are familiar with all of the special wrinkles in medical care for kids, and they have a tremendous "bag of tricks", as any parent can attest.Just as pediatricians see childhood as a special time in life, medical professionals have come to understand that "oldhood" is different from younger adult life. Scientific research continues to show us important differences in the ways that older people move, get sick, respond to stresses, andheal from illness. Just as important, old age is a time of tremendous variation from person to person. At age 80, one person might be wheelchair-bound and completely dependent on others for basic care. Another person the same age might be able to travel, care for grandchildren, or continue a career. Medical care for older adults needs to understand that the fundamentals are different as we get older, and there is no "one-size-fits-all.Because older adults have special needs in medical care, they need a special approach a different lens that looks at the whole person, the family structure, and the community around them. Geriatrics clinicians are trained and experienced in the whole spectrum of older adult needs. Although initially trained in specialties like Internal Medicine, Nurse Practitioner, and Family Medicine, they differ from regular primary care specialists in their additional training, focus, and perspective.In Geriatrics, clinicians have special areas of interest that are hugely important to older adults and their families. These include preventing falls, managing dementia, minimizing complex medication schedules, promoting independence, and coordinating a range of specialists. Geriatrics clinicians also understand that oldhood does not last forever, and that one of the ways they can best help patients and families is to plan and provide well for a graceful end of life. In short, Geriatrics takes a calm, thoughtful, and loving approach to a time that can seem hopelessly confusing to families.Geriatrics clinicians use a team approach to care, working with nurses, social workers, pharmacists, physical therapists, and other disciplines. Most importantly, they see a persons medical history as something that evolves over time, and they have an intense interest in an older persons progress through the years. This team approach across time is the key to getting the whole picture of a person, and helping them to map out the best possible course for their care.So how old is old enough to need a Geriatrics health professional? If youre between the ages of 65 and 80 and are lucky enough to enjoy great health, you can probably stick with your primary care provider. You might consult with a Geriatrician to help you look down the road to your later years. If you or a loved one are over 65 and are struggling with mobility problems, multiple chronic illnesses, dementia, or feel like youre on too many medications, a visit to a Geriatrician can help you and your family to sort through your problems. If youre lucky and strong enough to have made it to 85, it may be best to have a Geriatrics clinician as your primary care provider.Where can you find a Geriatrics Clinician? Look for "Geriatrics", "Senior Clinic", or "Senior Home Care" when you are looking for medical providers. When you call their office, ask if they specialize in the care of older adults, and especially inquire about the team approach to medical care and promoting independence. They should also have additional training and certification in areas related to health care for older adults.As they say on the AARP billboards, we know that roles change as we age. For people over 85 and those between 65 and 85 with significant health limitations, its important to know that medical care changes, too. Consulting with a Geriatrics clinician may be a great way to make the most of these special years.Editors Note: This article was submitted by Michael Galindo, MD, FACP. Michael is President of Utah Geriatrics Society, Intermountain Medical Group and may be reached by email at: michael.galindo@imail.org

Millennium Cognitive Caf, your community brain fitness center, provides a relaxed atmosphere in a social setting for individuals to collectively come together and improve their brain function. Socializing is good for your brain and like a gym to exercise your body; The Brain Fitness Caf is a virtual gym to exercise your brain. Grab a cup of coffee and mingle with others in a comfortable caf style setting. Cognitive reserve can be improved by a strong social network and having a sense of purpose in working towards mental fitness.Cognitive reserve can also be improved through aerobic and strength exercises, a mental workout, life-long learning and healthy lifestyles. Explore all these opportunities at the Millennium Cognitive Caf.Explore the Millennium Cognitive Caf and empower yourself to be educated, encouraged, engaged, find enjoyment and ease your concerns when it comes to building cognitive reserve. Take the plunge!Centered around the theme of a coffee shop, The Brain Fitness Caf has the look and feel of a casual coffee setting without the sale of coffee. In warm, inviting tones and side tables, and cozy chairs individuals can participate in a wide variety of brain fitness activities with others. Coffee and brain food will be available at no charge.Individuals can purchase memberships or pay by the day.Millennium Cognitive Caf programming will consist of a variety of brain fitness activities. First, in the caf section there will be a variety of individual and small group (2-3) people activities with a wide assortment to draw from. A sampling of books and magazines will also be available for education and reading. Brain fitness activities in this area include, but not limited to: n Sumoku game n The New York Times Collection of Crossword Puzzles n Puzzles to Flex your Mind Logic Box discover the beauty of math (mentally invigorating) Chess n Rummikub n Backgammon And moreEditors Note: This article was submitted by Cindi Ryerson RN, owner of Millennium House Adult Day Care and Millennium Cognitive Caf. She can be reached at 239-992-5513.

Are you struggling withfinding the right assisted living communityfor your loved one?Has your senior care research process been overwhelming and time consuming to the point of frustrating you?Well, dont give up yet as with theright knowledge and approach, you will find the process easy and fruitful.In this post, I will show you some of the most common assisted living mistakes you may be making and how to avoid them.1. Visiting only one facilityThis is one of the most common mistakes people searching for senior care make. Probably its because they find the search process to be sick and tiring and therefore jump to the first option they come across. You have to avoid this trap.Visiting several facilities opens your mind and presents you with several options from which you can make a choice. You cannot have a basis for comparison if you only visited oneassisted livingfacility.It may be that one has some appealing amenities that are within your budget, while another could be having even better amenities that are still within your budget. You can then make the best choice depending on the requirements of your loved one.One way to avoid this mistake is by taking the time toresearch and visitat least three facilities. You can even search on the internet or make phone calls and visit them in person.2. Basing decisions on the outward appearance of a facilityNo one will dare take their father or mother to a rundown, dilapidated, and unhealthy looking kind of an assisted living facility. Most people tend to incline towards the new, shiny and pretty facilities. This is because the outside appearance says a lot about the facility.You must, however, not base your decision on the shininess of the buildings. Most people tend to think the newer and shiny, the better, but this is not always the case as luxuries do not determine the quality of life. With assisted living, the aspect of quality living is what matters most, and for your loved one, this can only be through the quality of care he or she receives.You should, therefore, make your decision based on how caring a facility is. This you can tell by looking at the residents of the facility. What are their faces saying? Do they look happy or sad? What about the staff, are they friendly? Do they handle others loved ones roughly? These, among other things, are the real indicators of the experiences your loved one will have there.3. Choosing what appeals to you rather than your loved oneThe decision to take a loved one to an assisted living facility is often made by the seniors adult children or grandchildren. The decision-maker if not considerate enough, may make a choice based on what they think is good for the senior. This is not always the case.For instance, you can choose a center because it has a heated pool for its residents or because it has a large backyard. While these are some great and appealing amenities, they would mean nothing to a loved one who cant physically make use of them. For example, what advantage would be a heated pool for a senior who cant leave their bed?When making your search, ensure you take into consideration the desires of your loved one and not just your own. If possible, have them describe to you their desires and then use that as the basis of your search.Your loved one may also not manage to tell of their desires. In such a case, then you, together with your family members or close friends, can deliberate on what you think he or she would love.4. Not including others in the search processThe process of searching for an assisted living facility can be overwhelming. But some people would rather bear the pressure alone than bringing other people on board. While its still possible to do it alone, it would be much better, quicker, and easier if you involved experts and professionals in the industry.To move a loved one to a senior care facility should not be a cause of embarrassment for you. Instead, you should be glad that he or she will continue to enjoy quality life as they continue to age gracefully.Talking and consulting with knowledgeable people about your intentions arms you with the right knowledge and attitude. Your mind will be opened to different experiences others have had, and in the process, you will know what to prioritize and what to avoid.There are organizations and advocates whose main mission is to help people navigate the waters of assisted living for loved ones. They can prove to be very helpful, especially if you have a loved one with special needs. This is because being in the industry, they will help you to make the right choice based on your requirements.Note, however, that not all people can give you the right direction. For instance, your doctor may be an expert in health matters, but his or her recommendation for a facility for you will be based on what he has heard through word-of-mouth. This is because such people rarely take time to research such matters.You should, therefore, take it upon yourself to visit and assess each facility recommended to you5. Failing to read and understand the facilitys policyMost people fail to fully read the contract or policy of the center they choose. While the contract may not be as detailed as a life insurance policy, you should not breeze through it but instead, read keenly and internalize. Where you dont understand, ask for clarification.By reading the contract to the last detail, you protect yourself and family members from exploitation or paying for unnecessary fees. It also arms you with knowledge of what your loved one can expect from the facility and what is expected of them by the facility. You can, therefore, ask for an explanation should expectations fail to be met.Other than that, you can know if it is possible to have food, medical supplies, laundry, etc., done for your loved one at an extra cost or not. This is because some facilities charge for such services as different packages. Your loved one may not require them all, so this saves you money.To make sure you fully understand what your loved one should expect, ask as many questions as possible.6. Making short term plansWhen it comes to choosing a community for a loved one, most family members make short term decisions only. This includes enrolling their loved one to a community and staying optimistic that he or she will fair better.While this is not wrong, it is better to think realistically and anticipate changing needs for their loved ones as time goes on. Anticipating their future needs in the present helps them stay prepared not only emotionally but also financially.For instance, as time progresses, your loved one may require more specialized care. If the community in which he or she lives in right now cannot give that care, then you will have to move them. Moving from one facility to another harms your loved one as their peace gets disrupted. It also unnecessarily burdens the family financially.To avoid this, make an informed choice from the word go. You can have your seniors doctor help you recognize his or her present and future needs and book them into a facility that will best handle them. If he or she stays in the same facility over a long time, they will develop familiarity, which brings peace of mind and comfort and in the long run, help them lead a better life.7. Interacting with a single staff onlyWhen you visit a facility, you will probably talk to one person throughout the visit. This person will show you around the facility and will most likely become the only person you interact with within that center.While this is not bad, you should make contact with other persons in the facility. Through this, you can detect their attitude, which tells a lot about the facility.Talking to one person only can give you a not so accurate view of the facility. If your point person talks rudely to people, you may dismiss the facility as a place you wouldnt want for your loved one. On the other hand, the point person could be a sweet talker while the rest of the staff are suffering from filthy working conditions.During your visit, talk with the residents and ask them questions. Observe the other staff, do they seem happy? Do they look tired and overworked? Is the mood upbeat or somber? These are helpful indicators that paint a picture of what the facility will be like for your loved one.8. Choosing a facility because it worked for someone elseAssisted living facilities are like medicine. Do not take someone elses prescription but rather get your prescription. Many people rush to take their loved ones to a place just because their friends took theirs thereYou should note that different people have different needs, just as different facilities offer varied services. The choice you make should only be based on your loved ones unique needs. This is after you have put into consideration their desires, what their doctor says, the future needs you anticipate them to have, your finances, etc.You should also be careful of marketers who will do anything to make sure you choose their facility. Some will even go to the point of making false statements to impress you. For instance, they may say that their facility has trained staff who can take care of seniors with dementia while, in reality, nothing they dont have such staff.This means you have to search well and rely on more than one source for information. Do not just their word for it or rush in based on what your friends loved one experienced.9. Rushing in making decisionsThe urgency you have in getting attention for a loved one cannot be overlooked. Caution should, however, not be thrown out, especially as this involves the life of your loved one. Some people tend to hastily settle on any senior care center without minding the needs of their loved ones.You should know that all facilities are not equal. They charge differently, have different amenities, and offer varied services. The facility your loved one ends up in should be the most optimum otherwise, they will get stressed, and that is not your intention.During the decision-making process, visit as many assisted living communities as possible and make an observation of how they operate and how the residents live. What you see is what your loved one will come to experience. You should then ask as many questions as possible until your gut feeling is right; otherwise, the place will not be suitable for him or her.How to prepare for your senior care researchWhile the search for a suitable senior care facility can quickly get frustrating, this should not always be the case. If you avoid the assisted living mistakes listed here, then the process will be easy for you.One more thing that will surely save you lots of time to prepare your questions before visiting any facility. How you ask? By identifying the unique needs of your loved one beforehand, you can use them as a basis to prepare a set of questions whose answers seek to address your loved ones needs directly.Then as you make your facility search, you will come across as someone who knows what they want. The people you talk to will answer you objectively and you will achieve your goal faster. But without such a guideline, then anything can be tossed at you and you will be swayed from here to there leaving you more confused and frustrated.

As a young boy in the mid 80s, I remember making home visits to my then 85 year old, great-grandmother, Mrs. Tennie Frass, also known as Ninny to us kids. Today, over 30 years later it chokes me up knowing that she could have received 46 hours per month of FREE home care services through this unique program, mostly because she was a widow of a WWII Veteran! However, the care was never introduced because no one knew about it.Question: Have you heard of a not-so-popular benefit called the Aid & Attendance through the VA? In 1952, Congress passed Title 38 of the US Code creating the Department of Veterans Affair which authorized benefits for Veterans. One of these benefits was the Aid & Attendance, (a.k.a. the A & A) in which the funds could be used to provide non-medical care for those eligible. An incredibly powerful benefit that covers non-medical expenses of light house cleaning, bathing, meal prep, laundry, transportation, medication reminders, companionship and much more again, if youre eligible.So, whos eligible you might ask? over 65 years old Veteran served 90 days of active duty, one day during a major wartime (i.e. WWII, Korean, Vietnam) honorably discharged have a medical condition causing them to need assistance with ADLs (Activities of Daily Living) have limited income and assets (excluding home and car)Fact: Traditional methods of getting entitled or paid through the A&A takes an estimated 6-15 months before care starts why so long you ask? Because most family members dont understand the precision and articulation of the estimated 16-18 VA required forms. When these items are submitted to the VA, in most cases, theyre sent incorrectly. So what is our estimated start of care? It ranges from 2-4 weeks! Its not voodoo or black magic but it does include an experienced staff that includes Case Managers and VA Accredited Agents on our team. Moreover, there are never any hidden fees or upfront costs. Plus, once youre entitled, the benefit can remain in effect for the rest of your life!I can only imagine how good life would have been for my Ninny had we known about this program so many years ago. My goal today is to NOT allow other Ninnys to go through life without the awareness of such an awesome program. Plus, its only available through Veterans Aide at Home!Editors Note: This article was submitted by Steve Lee, Founder & Co-Owner of Veterans Aide at Home- a non-medical home care agency dedicated to Veterans, Spouses and their Widows/ers. He can be reached at 720.326.0319 or by email at: Steve@VeteransAideAH.com to learn more.

It always seems too early, until its too late.Its an all-too-common refrain from loved ones who waited too long to have conversations about end-of-life care preferences.I, myself, live with regret of a decision made with my husband as he neared the end of his life.We followed the expert recommendations of his care team to move him from home to inpatient hospice care, but he and I both knew he wished to die at home. When the decision had to be made, he was so close to death that we couldnt have the conversation with his family.Twelve years later, I still wonder: What if?Today not tomorrow we all should consider if our wishes are known by those who will speak for us when we near death.Advance care planningis not just about old age. At any age, a medical crisis could leave you too ill to make your own health care decisions.Even if you are not sick now, making health care plans for the future is an important step toward making sure you get the medical care you would want. It guides doctors and family members in making the decisions for you.Have the conversation today with your loved ones. At the end of any advance care planning conversation, you should have these five wishes clearly understood by your family:Who do you want to represent you when you cant make health care decisions for yourself due to your medical or mental condition?What extreme measures do you wish to have taken to prolong your life if death seems imminent? This includes CPR, life support and pain management.How comfortable do you wish to be when you are near death?How do you want people to treat you? Do you wish to die at home?How you will share your stories with those you love, and what do you want your family to do for arrangements once you die?Here is what you can do today to plan for your health horizon:Gather resources. Find conversation starters, issues to consider and instructions for completing advance directives at WellSpan.org/HorizonPlanning.Start with yourself: What are your own health care decisions? Consider what will be important as you near death.Involve loved ones: Mutually share your wishes. Have many conversations as life and health changes.Readiness: Give your advance care plans to your physician/hospital so your wishes can be known and honored.Everyone has a health horizon. You should plan for it. You and your family will be glad you did.To learn more about WellSpans Horizon Planning, visit WellSpan.org/HorizonPlanning._______________________________Editors Note: This article was submitted by Roberta Geidner, Horizon Planning Coordinator at WellSpan Health.

We all face fears in our lifetime. Aging brings out new fears not thought of in our youth. For example, we worry about our loss of independence, running out of money, having to move out of our home, and many other factors. Fear of frailty is a huge concern for seniors and their caregivers.Medical professionals describe frailty as a syndrome of weakness, fatigue and decline in physical activity, which can rob seniors of their independence. This can result from a heart attack, stroke, fall or weight loss. What often leads to frailty, however, is a lack of motivation and ability to stay active. Inactivity then becomes a big worry for seniors and family caregivers, and this largely is because they dont want to lose their independence. According to the results of a recent national survey of seniors and grown children, staying physically active was a major challenge for older adults. 74% of seniors 65 and older say that staying physically active is a major challenge, and 81% of adult caregivers say this as well.Furthermore, 9 out of 10 seniors surveyed say losing independence is their greatest fear.Frailty can be difficult to define, but most know it when they see it, said Dr. Stephanie Studenski(University of Pittsburgh Institute on Aging). She is one of the nations foremost authorities and researchers of mobility, balance disorders and falls in older adults. After surveying health care providers and family caregivers on how frailty is viewed, they found that many family members base frailty on social and psychological changes they see in their loved ones. Doctors, on the other hand, focus more on the physical evidence. Therefore, it is important to look at the whole individual regarding social, psychological and physical factors. Notably, Dr. Studenski said that frailty can be both prevented and reversed by activity. The activities can be directed at the seniors mind, body and soul, all of which are important to helping seniors age well. Staying active, therefore, is viewed by many as vital to healthy aging and, hopefully with time, eliminating the fear factors of aging. 'Editors Note: The study noted was conducted by Home Instead Senior Care and Dr. Stephanie Studenski. This article was submitted by Home Instead Senior Care Dallas

Becoming elderly is not for the faint of heart! Its painful, frustrating, and downright scary at times! For the elderly, they live everyday with the fear of the rising cost of medical care and the fear of no longer being able to make a living. I absolutely love it when I can give the elderly some of their power back! As an elder law attorney, it is an honor to help my elderly clients find ways to preserve their assets and resources while simultaneously obtaining financial assistance for their medical expenses.Many people are unaware that there are techniques generally referred to as Medicaid crisis plans which can help an elderly person to obtain Medicaid assistance for long term care in a nursing home while preserving anywhere from 50% to 100% of their resources. Generally, your nursing home facility will either not know about crisis planning or will not be concerned with asset preservation for its patrons. Thus, it is important to speak with an attorney knowledgeable in Medicaid, Medicare, Veterans Benefits, etc. when you enter an assisted living facility or a nursing home.More importantly, it is wise to start and maintain a relationship with an elder law attorney long before you reach an advanced age. Many techniques utilized by elder law attorneys are done well in advance of needing long term care, generally called advance Medicaid plans. In addition, the earlier you plan for a possible stay in a nursing home, the more resources you can preserve when the time comes. Many of my clients who are seeking only an estate plan such as a will, trust, powers of attorney, etc. will simultaneously discuss the dangers and pitfalls of failing to plan for nursing home costs and planning. As a result, when the time comes, I will know their assets, resources, and income and will be prepared to assist them in either crisis planning or advanced planning.In short, whether you are contemplating an estate plan or the cost of nursing home care in the future, it is time to start developing a relationship with an estate planning or elder law attorney. This will allow both you and your attorney to be ready to deal with long term care costs when they arise. It is never too late to start planning ahead.Editors Note: This article was submitted by Jason Smith, J.D., LL.M., CEO, Smith Law Services, P.C. Attorney Smith can be reached at 219-240-1214.

Most people have heard the terms Assisted Living and Supportive Living, many people use the terms interchangeably and believe the programs are the same. While the programs are somewhat similar there are differences that anyone looking for a community should be aware of.Supportive Living is a program that is regulated and administered by The Department of Healthcare and Family Services. Illinois developed the program as an alternative to nursing home placement for low-income seniors, 65 or older, or persons with disabilities, 22 to 64. The program allows for these individuals to remain in a community setting, while focusing on health and wellness. Residents are responsible for the room and board costs of their apartment and are entitled to keep $90 per month out of their income, the remaining income is paid to the supportive living community. Medicaid then supplements the cost of care above and beyond the amount the resident paid to the community. There are communities that are licensed for the 65 and older population while there are a few in the Chicagoland area that are licensed for the 22 to 64 age group. Supportive Living requires a pre-screen know as a Determination of Need (DON) prior to moving in. These screens are completed by an independent agency. Assisted Living is a program that is regulated by the Illinois Department of Public Health. The intent of legislation for Assisted Living Facilities and Shared Housing Establishments was to provide residential environments designed to meet the ever changing needs of the elderly population, so that they can remain as independent as possible. Assisted living establishments have an age requirement of 55 or older and residents pay privately for their apartment and care needs. Cost per assisted living vary per community and it is important to get a full list of prices for room and board and care charges. A physician certification is required prior to moving into an assisted living community and should be completed by the potential residents primary care physician. Asbury Court located in Des Plaines offers; Independent Living, Assisted Living, Supportive Living, and a new Skilled Nursing facility scheduled to open in the first quarter of 2018. You can call (847) 228-1500 to inquire about services or to learn which program might be right for you or a loved one. Asbury Gardens in North Aurora offers; Supportive Living, Memory Care, and Skilled Nursing. You can call (630) 896-7778 to inquire about services and availability. Asbury of Kankakee in Kankakee offers Supportive Living. Please call (815) 963-1000 to inquire about availability. *sources for this article are: www.illinois.gov and www.illinoislegalaid.org Editors note: this article was written and submitted by Jennifer Niedermeier, Director of Business Development for Asbury Healthcare.

Two of the toughest decisions a home owner can make is, 1) Is this the right house for my family and me to buy?, and then years later, 2) How am I ever going to get this house ready for sale?! To move from a larger home to a smaller home can seem like an unbearable and hugely daunting task. It doesnt have to be that way. Family homes filled with generations of keepsakes and memorabilia can leave the sellers pushing the, Where do I start?! panic button. Once a homeowner has made the decision that taking care of their home has become a burden and the downsizing option is looking more and more appealing the actual move itself should not stand in the way of that journey to an easier and less complicated life style. Also, if the home seller has no family members in the area to help them begin the task of making their home sale ready this can add to idea that moving is an undoable project. The tricks to getting the home ready is organizing, storing, donating, tag sales, consignments, gifting, hauling, handymen work, staging and arriving at a satisfying ending at the closing table. If one takes this step by step or my personal favorite, room by room, it becomes very manageable. The client should not look at the project as one big chore but a series of smaller tasks. It is amazing how much better a homeowner feel when they begin to see progress! It is key to have the right people with good references that offer the above services assisting at the right time of the getting things ready process. The most important result after all is done is received at the closing table where the sellers will reap the rewards of a great outcome of a more saleable home.This article was submitted by Jennifer OConnell, The Magyar Team, William Raveis Real Estate, 45 Field Point Road, Greenwich, Ct. 06830, Email: jennifer.oconnell@raveis.com, Cell:203-249-1948

Traveling the caregiver road alone is never easy. Maybe its time for help.When families faces health care issues and realize they need help for at-home or community based care, one of the first concerns is the financial burden to be faced. Because costs can be high, families may seek the lowest cost care plan to provide the longest possible time frame available. This type of plan may include tag-team coverage from family members who are trying to help mom or dad while working a job and trying to keep their own family happy. This family may contact a home care provider or visit an assisted living community to see whats available or affordable. When they find the right level of care or assistance, the concerns frequently settle on How can we afford this?Discovery processA Cure for Wellness 2017 live streaming movieThe family may feel like they have nowhere to turn. But they do. Care Cost Advisors are expert in navigating the web of public benefits and personal options for care. Because the problem appears to be financial, the first step is to inventory the available assets. This may include investments, insurance policies, home equity or long term care coverage. Next, health issues are reviewed to understand where assistance will be needed and at what cost. Then the process will discover what Veterans benefits or public programs may be available to assist with care costs.Care Service SolutionsNext, the Care Cost Advisor will lay out a plan to optimize current assets and qualify for additional benefits, if available. This may include changes to current IRA accounts, insurance and investments or the need for estate planning changes. Required services may include an attorney or tax professional or a care service locator. The Care Cost Advisor has identified those providers who understand the planning and provide the family consistent understanding of their needs and charge fees that are reasonable.Implementing the PlanAs the proposal is put in place the Care Cost Advisor serves as the point of contact throughout the process. Rather than have advisors who may not understand the Big Picture, the team of service providers are all moving to the familys goal of getting the most care for a reasonable cost. This requires a talented team leader who understands insurance, financial, tax issues, and national care benefits including VA, Medicaid and estate planning concerns; the Care Cost Advisor.Editors Note: Submitted by Chuck Shaw, VA Accredited Agent & financial advisor. He is a Care Cost Advisor with Capital Wealth Strategies and may be reached at (719) 638-1319 or capitalwealth@ymail.com.

Rehabilitation Hospitals, sometimes referred to as Inpatient Rehabilitation Hospitals, provide intensive rehab to patients who are generally medically stable but need help to recover from injury or other medical conditions. They can be found within a hospital or in a free-standing building. Rehabilitation hospitals were created to provide services less costly on a per diem basis than general hospitals but provide a high level of professional therapies such as physical, occupational and speech therapies. Rehabilitation Hospitals need to meet a minimum number of physician visits, increased daily rehab hours (3 hours/day, 5 days/week of PT, OT, and/or Speech), and interdisciplinary services including increased RN oversight and nursing hours per day.#listing_mgr{7 basic_search}#

Summer days bring out the child in each of us. Whether you are young or old, or somewhere in-between, the hot days of summer can be filled with laughter, play and happy times together.Not sure what to do while you are outside? Here is a list of low-cost outdoor activities to enjoy with friends, neighbors and family members of all ages. While you are out in the summer sun, make sure all participants wear protective sunscreen and stay hydrated.Blow bubbles It is fun to blow or chase bubbles. Blowing bubbles is a good way to exercise the lungs of senior adults too. You can purchase inexpensive bottles of bubbles at a local discount retailers or the dollar store.Play a game of ring toss Arrange a dozen or more water bottles into a square, then toss some silicon wristbands or inexpensive bangle bracelets to see who can ring the bottles. Adjust the rules to fit the ages, sizes and skills of each contender. Winners earn bragging rights or even a small treat.Splash in a kiddie pool Getting just a little wet takes the heat off the day. Dangle your toes in the water and just relax. A plastic dishpan can work as an inexpensive alternative for engaging in water play. Those who are more adventurous and swift-footed may prefer to dash through a sprinkler.Frolic with water balloons Filling up those slippery balloons is half the fun. Its a science experiment too how much water can that balloon hold without breaking? Whether you toss those oh-so-full balloons carefully or not is up to you. Promptly throw away the remains of broken balloons as these can become a choking hazard for young children, adults with dementia and animals.Picnic on the lawn Something as simple as a peanut butter and jelly sandwich tastes better outside, whether you sit a picnic table or on the grass. Include a few carrots sticks and a piece of fruit to round out the meal.Engaging in activities, inside and out, can create better days for your aging loved ones. Our trained caregivers are also available to provide customized meaningful activities for older adults in the comfort of home. Let us help you live your best life possible.This article was submitted by Nicol Rupolo, owner of ComForCare of Lower Fairfield County; adapted with permission from a blog previously published by ComForCare Health Care Holding, LLC on June 28, 2016. Nicol may be reached at 203-705-0220 or Nicol@ComForCare.com.

A Good Listener:  When youre shopping around for health insurance, you want your agent to be dialed in to what youre saying about your past medical history. Weve all heard that the number one cause of bankruptcy in the US is medical expenses. So, your agent needs to respect the 75% listening, 25% talking rule when communicating with you. Its paramount that your agent asks the right questions to cover all potential exposure points. Youll know that you have an insurance agent that values you when theyre asking thoughtful questions and focused on your responses. Pinpointing a plan across many carriers takes great listening skills; your agent has a responsibility to ensure that the coverage you have will mitigate the most out-of-pocket exposure for your family if something does happen to you.Clarity and Knowledge:  An insurance agent that values you will master their product knowledge because theyre aware of the fiduciary responsibility to their clients. The purpose of having an agent is for them to explain your policy options clearly and concisely. As a potential client, make sure youre asking questions if anything is confusing. An agent that values you will be more than happy to give you the answers you seek. If they are not, they most likely are more worried about the sale and not your needs. Whatever the budget for health insurance, a knowledgeable agent should find some form of coverage for you. Theyre genuine in their approach when explaining your policy options. If youre speaking with an agent who wont take the time to help you personally or at least refer you to someone who can, theyre limited in their knowledge and most likely commission-minded. Furthermore, you may want to inquire into finding an independent broker. These agents are appointed with dozens of insurance carriers and can build policy options based on your needs and not one companys products. In this manner, you are exposed to greater clarity through options and choice. An agent who provides value in these ways is friendly, non-combative, and committed to helping you.Staying Connected:  If your agent has met the above two criteria, its most likely a good idea to keep them around. They are now aware of your medical history, and you have both established mutual trust and understanding. An agent that values this long-term relationship will reach out to you periodically throughout the year. Their purpose should be to review the policy and make adjustments if necessary. Your agent should want to know whether or not the policy has provided value. This is also a great time for you to ask any questions. Additionally, if you currently have an agent who issued you a policy but hasnt contacted you since, you may want to reach out or consider getting a new agent. Your agent should demonstrate these qualities so that you know your familys health is covered to the fullest extent.

We all have favorite childhood memories. I happen to have many great memories of spending time with my grandparents. I was fortunate enough to live walking distance from both sets of grandparents. During school years, my sisters and I would go to one or the other grandparents homes for lunch each day. My younger sister loved Mac n Cheese; she would request it every week from both grandmothers. They would get creative in preparing it, sometimes with peas and crushed crackers on top. We would converse around the table, laughing and eating and talking about our days. My grandfather loved ice cream. Ice cream sundaes became a lunchtime tradition at his house. He would scoop the ice cream into our bowls and we would customize them with the toppings of our choice; chocolate, caramel, sprinkles, pineapple, shredded coconut, and the list goes on.These intergenerational interactions were something we all looked forward to. They provided an opportunity for us to share stories and learn from each other. My grandmothers would teach us how to sew and bake bread, to set the table and knit a scarf. Our grandfathers would teach us how to pump water from a well, and play cards. We didnt think of them as people who were old, we thought of them as people that we loved, respected and cherished. They had so much knowledge and wisdom to share; they were people to look-up to. We would teach them some of the wonders of science we were learning in class or how to use the microwave and hook-up the VCR. It was a two-way relationship.Intergenerational interactions provide a multitude of benefits to both young and old such as socialization and a sense of belonging, emotional support, a sense of purpose and increased self-worth, as well as teaching and learning opportunities. Interactions between different generations help build a sense of personal and societal identity while encouraging tolerance for each other. They promote the passing of values and cultural traditions from generation to generation.Create memories with your grandchildren by spending time together, whether over the phone, Skype, Internet or in person. Play games, bake cookies, fish, make crafts and swap stories. Its never too late to start. 'Editors Note: This article was written by Kathleen Warshawsky, BSN, RN, Owner and Publisher of Seniors Blue Book Greater Dallas. Kathleen may be reached at Kathleen@SeniorsBlueBook. com

My Grandmother, Meemaw was my mentor, my guide and my lifeline throughout my life. She was my North Star! She and my Grandfather Papa spent a great deal of time with my brothers and I and raised us throughout our childhoods. My Meemaw was smart, incredibly strong and my hero. I owe every success I have had in life to my Grandparents and they were my greatest inspiration. I was very fortunate to have my Meemaw live until she was 98 years old. She was very healthy and extremely independent until the last two years of her life when she was in and out of the hospital mainly due to old age. It was at that time that my brother and I had to start thinking about home care for her as we wanted her to age in place. We like most families knew nothing about the world of home care or home health and it came as an immediate shock trying to navigate. We were fortunate and were able to safely find her the quality care she needed and that allowed her to stay in her home. It was a very difficult time for my family. At that point I started thinking seriously about helping other families like mine with such difficult decisions with their loved ones.Prior to starting Gentle Shepherd, I had been an Executive in a Fortune 500 company running a large Region in the U.S. I was growing tired of Corporate America and wanted to move from success to significance. As time marched on my parents were in their 80s as was my Mother-In-Law. They all had various health issues and some dementia. We found ourselves once again being that family with aging parents who needed more care than we could provide. So, four and a half years ago my husband Scott and I made the decision to leave behind Corporate America and started Gentle Shepherd Home Care. It was personal and we knew we could help and guide families like ours! Thus, Gentle Shepherd was born! We have an incredible team with over 160 highly qualified professional caregivers and were just awarded Best of the Springs for Home Care in 2020! We truly provide compassionate care in the comfort of your own home and will love and treat your family as our own! Editors Note: This article was written by Kathy Miller, founder of Gentle Shepherd Home Care. She can be reached at 719- 359-8371 or by email at: Kathy.miller@gentleshepherdhomecare.com.

Sometimes its easy to know when a family member needs care and assistance. For instance, maybe he or she has a major disability or requires additional help following a hospital stay. In other cases, however, it isnt immediately obvious that your senior is in need of help with the activities of daily life.As people who have had to wrestle with our own family decisions, we thought it useful to provide early guidance, so other families might know when a more careful assessment of their seniors needs is required.Below is a list of questions to consider when determining if a loved one is in need of additional care: Pay Attention to How They Look Appearance can be a sign that they are being limited either physically or mentally from completing normal daily tasks. Are they wearing dirty or stained clothing? Have they brushed their teeth? Listen to the Senior Listening to how seniors speak can tell you a lot about their current mental status. Dont assume that old age is causing these problems. Have they forgotten to refill prescriptions or take their medicine? Have they missed doctors appointments? View the Seniors Surroundings Looking at their food and medications can help you determine if they are eating healthy or even worse, taking expired medicine. Do they have fresh and stocked pantry items? Are there piles of unopened bills? Use Your Nose Using your nose as an indicator can help you determine if your family member is bathing properly or participating in otherwise normal activities. Does their living environment possess any unpleasant odors? Are they bathing regularly? If you sense a problem based on the above indictors, you and other family members should waste no time in taking the appropriate next steps. As difficult as the process might be, keep reminding yourself that by being proactive you will not only provide safety for your family member, but will also keep them happy and healthy for years to come. Editors note: This article was submitted by Charles Fairweather (908-322-8200) and Herb Ronde (973-452-0575), local owners of BrightStar, a full-service in-home medical and non-medical agency offering caregiving to seniors and disabled adults. They would gladly provide assistance in these matters.

Finishing Well Ministries presents The Exciting Potential of This Season of Life, What The Bible Says About Growing OlderYou never fish in the same river twice. The river is always changing. Thats true of life as well. Each day is different from the day before. We ourselves are different. Therefore, God keeps giving us opportunities to grow. Because this is true, lets consider some important biblical principles about aging.Read it Here! What The Bible Says About Growing OlderWritten by Dr. Hal Habecker

Funeral and pre-planning businesses specialize in providing traditional funeral and cremation services. Funeral homes arrange services in accordance with the wishes of surviving friends and family, whether immediate next of kin or an executor so named in a legal will. These companies may also provide advance directives and pre-planning funeral arrangements.#listing_mgr{7 basic_search}#

To learn more aboutBloom Companion Care, CLICK HERE.Our Concierge Care uses a multi-disciplinary approach that includes nurse and medical advocates. When we visit with your loved one, we perform daily charting. We then audit the information and sort through it on a linear basis. This summary can be provided weekly or bimonthly, which enables you to make more informed decisions regarding your family members care. It also makes doctors appointments more effective by consolidating the bigger picture and acknowledging both the small and the large changes. Just askwere happy to help.At Bloom, we strive to match the best possible caregiver with you or your loved one. We conduct an in-depth interview to give us a better sense of who you are. We then cater your companion care to your experiences and how you want to spend your time. For someone like our beloved Benie who was an Airplane Mechanic and Pilot in WWII, listening to big band music or visiting the SAC Museum conjures up fond memories. Hitting a bucket of balls at the driving range or simply sitting in the car and watching someone else hit a bucket of balls makes him happy, too. The point is we want to revisit Bens life through a visual experience. Its a way to validate his experiences and connect him and his memories to the present.

According to research conducted by the Home Instead Senior Care network, two in five adult children (39%) surveyed in the U.S., and more than one-third (36%) surveyed in Canada, have at least one barrier that prevents them from having conversations with their parents about aging or end of life.Barriers and hurdles can get in the way of candid family conversations about a variety of topics such as living choices, health, driving and end of life.Here are a few concerns that could create problems for families. Some are from a seniors perspective, others from an adult child or family. Do any sound familiar?Living Choices Seniors fear loss of independence, which could include giving up on certain freedoms such as driving. Families are concerned about the cost of receiving assistance at home or moving to a care community. Seniors are afraid they will be forced to leave their home. Families are not aware of what their options might be.Health Medications are expensive. Can I afford them? Who will pay? Reluctance to bother family members. My doctor and I are dealing with it. My kids dont need to worry. The attitude: Im old anyway, so why should it matter.Driving Seniors fear they wont be able to get around if they have to quit driving. Adult children worry that seniors will hurt themselves or someone else. Older adults could have an inaccurate perception of their ability to drive. Adult children could feel its disrespectful to ask a parent to give up his or her keys.End of Life People think they still have plenty of time to address end-of-life issues. Im afraid talking about this will lead to a family fight. I dont want to worry my kids. I dont know where to start the conversation.If youre dealing with any of these issues, consider completing the 40-70 Rule: An Action Plan for Successful AgingSM at www.4070Talk.com to help develop a plan for tackling the sensitive subjects of aging.Editors Note: This article was submitted by Jerri Schomaker, is an Owner/CEO of Home Instead Senior Care, Colorado Springs and may be reached at 719-534-0908 or by email at jschomaker@homeinstead.com

One of the quickest ways to stretch your retirement budget is to shrink your housing costs. Moving into a smaller house, condo, or apartment can also reduce your taxes, utility bills, and home maintenance costs. Here are other reasons to consider downsizing in retirement:Boost your nest egg. Cutting your housing costs is a quick way to increase your retirement savings. "Having less money locked up in your housing frees up more money to invest or just for your lifestyle," says Kathy Hankard, a certified financial planner for Fiscal Fitness in Verona, Wisc. "If you're deciding just by the numbers, it's pretty much a no-brainer to downsize." For example, if you moved from a $300,000 home with a paid-off mortgage into a $150,000 condo, you could add $100,000 or more to your nest egg, after transaction costs.Lower your cost of living. For retirees who still have a mortgage or pay rent, moving into more compact quarters in your current town or relocating to a low-cost locale can lower one of your biggest monthly expenses. Ideally the smaller space would also cost less to heat, furnish, and maintain. Slimming housing costs will produce far greater results than skipping coffee and clipping coupons. Aim for a town that balances a low cost of living with amenities such as high-quality health care and plenty of fun, affordable activities.Reduce taxes. Inexpensive housing has the added bonus of smaller property tax bills. "I have clients who have saved a couple of thousand dollars per year because they have moved from an urban area with a high property tax to an area with a lower property tax and that doesn't assess seniors for school taxes," says Micah Porter, a certified financial planner and president of Minerva Planning Group in Atlanta, Ga. Taxes can vary considerably by location. Alaska, Florida, Nevada, South Dakota, Texas, Washington, and Wyoming have no state income tax. New Hampshire and Tennessee tax dividend and interest income only. "If you anticipate earning income in retirement, being able to forgo that state income tax could save you thousands of dollars as well," says Porter. Five states levy no sales tax: Alaska, Delaware, Montana, New Hampshire, and Oregon. Also look for state and local tax breaks specifically for seniors who reach certain ages.Less upkeep. Ron and Jean Mirabile, both 67, traded in a three-story townhouse with a basement in Cromwell, Conn., for a three-bedroom apartment with a lake view in Port Charlotte, Fla. The couple was looking for a change of scenery and housing that required less upkeep when they retired in 2008. "If something breaks, I call the office and the maintenance man comes and fixes it," says Jean, a former proofreader. Ron, a retired dentist who makes wooden fishing lures as a hobby, no longer needs to travel to fish. "I can take one pole and lure and go out in the backyard and fish for bass," he says. "The best things in Florida are free: The weather, the beach, and the scenery."Slash utility bills. Cozier quarters may also result in lower heating and cooling expenses and a smaller homeowner's insurance bill. "A smaller space should save you money on utilities," says Porter. Ask for copies of the previous owner or tenant's utility bills to determine approximate monthly expenses.Increase flexibility. Some retirees go back to renting in retirement. "Renting makes a lot of sense because there is more flexibility," says Hankard. "Most people would rather do other things with their time and money, unless they are really in love with their home." Renters can try out a few retirement locations. Sometimes priorities also shift throughout retirement. For example, immediately upon retirement, you might want to move to the Sunbelt or travel. But after a few years, you might want to move closer to your children and grandchildren.More amenities. First-time home buyers are often concerned about space for children and living in a good school district. But retirees need to think about whether their home will continue to be convenient as they age. "As you get older those stairs are not going to be your friend," cautions Julie Schatz, a certified financial planner for Investor's Capital Management in Menlo Park, Calif. Seniors may want to consider a single-level home and proximity to family and friends who can help with household tasks. If you have any type of health problem, it is essential to live near a medical facility.http://money.usnews.com/money/retirement/articles/2010/03/15/21-ways-to-cut-expenses-in-retirementTake the stress out of downsizing!Busy lifestyles and often two-income households leave adult children little time to help aging parents with their transition. Other seniors don't have much help of any kind, and are too overwhelmed or physically unable to tackle their move alone. Even when family help is available, emotions can run high, making the process challenging and frustrating for everyone involved.The good news is, you are not alone! We are here to help.A Life Transition Service LancasterLarry Hess1280 Plaza Boulevard, Lancaster, Pennsylvania 17601, United States(717) 468-2520

The catch phrase says it all. Adult children who are caring for their parents while also raising their own family are known as "the sandwich generation." These caregivers find themselves pulled in many directions -- caring for a parent, raising their children, keeping their marriage healthy and often holding down a job as well.Moreover, they are thrust into the awkward and often unwanted position of parenting their own parents. In my 33 years of working with the older generation, this reversal in the parenting role gives rise to stress for both child & parent. Often with this stress comes arguments, frustration, negative feelings and relational divisions within families. Instead of focusing their attention on their own family, their focus has to shift to the parent, requiring more time, energy and patience than they had ever imagined.It doesn't surprise me when one of my client's children call me to confess their resentment and guilt. Statements such as "I just can't make one more decision for dad..." or "I didn't realize how much time this was going to take and I just don't have it" or "why won't my mother do what I tell her to" do not surprise me at all anymore. In fact, I quite understand, having been through this personally, several years ago.Please know this: Your feelings are normal. Don't keep the negative feelings in. Vent to a good friend, spouse or a therapist. It is a huge responsibility to take on the parenting of your parent. Remember how they parented you and use the same techniques. For example: if you don't allow X, the consequence will be Y&Z.My advice is to always take care of yourself. One way to do this is to enlist or employ help! There are so many resources in our area that can help relieve a lot if not all the responsibility. By getting help, the role of parent and child returns to its original state.Sharon Ritchey-Boschini,Owner & DirectorVisiting Angels of North Hills Pittsburgh8035 McKnight Road, Suite 304Pittsburgh, PA 15237412-366-4860www.visitingangels.com/northhills

What is a Long-Term Acute Care Hospital (LTACH)?A Long Term Acute Care Hospital (LTACH) that provides specialized medical, nursing and rehabilitation services for patients who need more advanced care for their recovery process, but who no longer require services at a traditional hospital. Patients typically have a chronic or medically complex medical condition that requires hospitalization for an average of 25 days or more in a facility that offers a 24/7 specialized treatment program.Long term often leads people to assume that its similar to a long-term facility (Nursing Home), but a more accurate description of an LTACH, would be a post-acute care hospital. The main difference between a traditional hospital and an LTACH is the length of stay. Traditional hospitals are focused on caring for a patient for an average of four to five days, where initial surgical interventions and diagnostic procedures are performed, while a long term acute care hospital typically cares for a patient an average of 25 days.The purpose of a LTACH is to provide critical care-level services but with a stronger recovery and rehabilitative focus permitted by the longer length of stay. Patients referred to an LTACH must meet an admission criteria designated by their insurer including Medicare, Medicaid and commercial insurers.At an LTACH, patients can continue to receive intensive interventions, such as ventilator weaning, cardiac monitoring, aggressive wound management, antibiotic infusions, TPN, while being managed by a coordinated patient care team. Long term acute care hospitals offer specialized programs for patients who require ventilator-weaning, wound care, infectious disease management, or intensive management of medically complex conditions. Typical services include daily management and rounding by Hospitalists and/or Pulmonologists, telemetry, laboratory, pharmacy, radiology, respiratory therapy, rehabilitation, dialysis, and an intensive staff-to patient ratio.For those looking to understand what services and conditions may be available for treatment at an LTACH, the following are the most common:Ventilator-WeaningRespiratory FailureWoundsMedically ComplexAmputationCardiovascular DiseaseCOPDCHFHead Injury/TraumaInfectious Diseases (including MRSA, VRE)MalnutritionPneumoniaPost-Operative PatientsRenal Disease/FailureSpinal Cord InjuryStrokeTraumaMost common questions about LTACH Services:Is an LTACH like a nursing home? Not at all. Patients in a Long Term Acute Care Hospital are too medically complex for nursing homes to typically accept. LTACHs provide daily physician management, 24 hour nursing care, pharmacy in-house, radiology, dialysis, 24 hour respiratory therapy, and 6 day a week rehabilitation therapy. In addition, admission to an LTACH avoids using precious skilled nursing facility days granted by Medicare.Is LTACH like hospice? Hospice care is primarily for those not expected to recover and have a terminal illness. In contrast, the Long Term Acute Care Hospital is for patients who can be treated, recover and then return home or to a lower level of care.Written by Tammy Pettingill Director of Marketing Southwest Idaho Advanced Care Hospital

More than a century ago, cancer patients and their caregivers had few options for surviving, even thriving, after a cancer diagnosis. Thanks to the American Cancer Society, things have changed.When the American Cancer Society was founded in 1913, rarely did people talk about cancer and few people survived a cancer diagnosis. When the grim news was given to a patient, a carriage ride and champagne were the treatments to distract the patient from the inevitable end. Now, thanks to ground-breaking research, advancing treatments and American Cancer Society screening guidelines, two out of three people diagnosed with cancer are surviving the disease for at least five years. Now more than 500 people a day in the U.S. are celebrating birthdays that otherwise would have been lost to cancer.The Society has attacked cancer in many ways. Below are just some of the options available to cancer survivors.Patient NavigatorsFighting cancer is tough enough without worrying about bills, health insurance, appointments and finding the best resources. Society patient navigators guide the newly diagnosed through complex treatment options at more than 100 U.S. hospitals.Online SupportAt the website Cancer.org, patients and caregivers have access to extensive cancer information and educational resources about how to prevent, find, treat and cope with cancer.Help Any Time, Day or NightThe American Cancer Societys free helpline offers support 365 days a year at 1-800-227-2345. Cancer Information Specialists answer calls 24 hours per day, providing support and answering questions about cancer, clinical trials and local resources.Lodging With 31 locations nationwide, Hope Lodge provides a free, temporary place to stay for patients who must travel away from home for treatment. Patients save millions of dollars in lodging costs and can focus on getting well. Plans are underway now to construct a Hope Lodge in Dallas, and one already exists in Lubbock.Support GroupsSharing with another person facing cancer can make all the difference. Volunteersmany of whom are survivors themselveslead local Society-sponsored support groups nationwide. Dallas cancer survivors can participate in Look GoodFeel Better, a free program led by licensed cosmetologists and aestheticians, and also Reach to Recovery, a support program for breast cancer survivors.WellnessEducating people about staying well is key to preventing cancer and for recovery after treatment. Society staff and volunteers share proven tips on physical activity, nutrition and overall health in schools, businesses and communities across the country. The American Cancer Society also promotes healthy screening guidelines for specific cancers.This article was submitted by Joy Donovan, American Cancer Society. For more information on any of the topics, please call 1-800-227-2345.

I have been featuring articles focusing on the scams and exploitation tactics that have been targeted at seniors in Southwest Florida. Sadly, however, statistics show that seniors continue to be victimized at an alarming rate. Please take steps to protect yourself before you are a victim. Be careful, informed and prepared!Be aware that you are at risk from strangers and those closest to you. Over 90% of all reported elder exploitation is committed by family members. Sadly enough, most often children and grandchildren are the culprits of financial deception. Common tactics are to deplete joint checking accounts, promising and not delivering care in exchange for monetary compensation or property, and outright stealing right under the victims nose. Surround yourself with trusted, ensured, bonded, experienced professionals that can provide you with information and security. When dealing with home repair or service providers, check theFlorida Department of Professional Regulation to verify appropriate licensing.Never purchase anything from someone who calls or visits without being invited. This is especially true when dealing with charitable organizations. If you are interested in the product or wish to know more about the charity, invite the solicitor to send you material that you can examine at your convenience. Legitimate companies and charitable organizations will never pressure you for money. Remember, you are in control!Shred, Shred, Shred. Identity theft is a profitable business for crooks. Monitor your bank and credit card statements and report any discrepancies immediately to your financial institution.Don't give any personal information over the phone unless you initiated the call. Legitimate businesses and agencies will not call you asking for your personal information over the phone or email.Sign up for the Do Not Call List. Visit www.donotcall.gov, or call toll-free 1-888-382-1222 from the phone you wish to register to stop telemarketers from calling you. This service is sponsored by the Federal Trade Commission. Remember to register both your home and cell phones.If you suspect financial exploitation or a potential scam, report it to local law enforcement immediately. LEAPP (Lee Elder Abuse Prevention Partnership) is a local coalition advocating against elder abuse and exploitation. To learn more about LEAPP, contact United Way 211. For more information on assistance for seniors, contact the Elder Helpline toll-free at 1-866-413-5337.Editors Note: This article was submitted by Marilyn Gregory, Elder Abuse Prevention Coordinator, Seniorchoices for Southwest Florida, Inc. Elder Helpline 1-866-413-5337.

Medicare Advantage plans (Part C) are not the same as Medicare Supplement (Medigap) plans. Even though most people don't understand the differences, they are very different kinds of insurance. As such, the rules that the beneficiary must follow to receive health care are also very different. Make sure you understand these differences before enrolling.If original Medicare (Parts A & B) is your primary insurance, you are not restricted by HMO or PPO networks for your medical care. Without referrals, you may see any doctor or provider within the U.S. that agrees to see you. Sometimes you can shift drug coverage from Part D to Part B. If you are using insulin, pain medication, or certain inhalers (which can all be pricy, even under Part D), the same active ingredients may be available for use in insulin pumps, pain pumps or nebulizers. These devices are considered Durable Medicare Equipment (DME); therefore, the equipment, as well as the medications administered through the equipment, are covered under Part B, which in many cases will result in substantially lower out of pocket costs for the beneficiary. Talk to your doctor to see if this is an option for you.Medicare Supplement (Medigap) carriers are still allowed to deny coverage due to pre-existing conditions, even with the ACA becoming law. This is one of the most misunderstood aspects of the ACA (Obamacare). When you apply for a Medigap policy outside of being new to Medicare (or recently turning 65), the insurance company in most cases can review your health history and deny coverage if you're health history or current condition doesn't meet their underwriting criteria. This hasn't change under the ACA. Note: There are numerous exceptions to this rule. Consult with a qualified Medicare advisor to learn more.You are allowed to change your Medicare Supplement (Medigap) policy any time throughout the year, not just at open enrollment. If you encounter a large rate increase at any time, you may apply for a Medigap from a different carrier. There are no calendar restrictions. Once approved, you can make the switch. Consult with your qualified Medicare advisor to learn more.Editors Note: This article was submitted by Bill Gundelfinger-Mr. Medicare of Total Retirement Alliance, Medicare Experts. Helping Medicare Beneficiaries get the most out of their health insurance. He can be reached at 720-675-8032 or 800-376-5450

Q: What are my risks of acquiring colon cancer?A: There are approximately 140,000 new cases of colorectal cancer diagnosed in United States annually. About 50,000 American deaths occur due to colon cancer every year. The lifetime risk of colorectal cancer for an average American is about 5% with 90% of those cases occurring after age 50.Q: How should I be screened for colorectal cancer?A: Colorectal cancer is a cancer that develops in large intestine or rectum. The major goal of screening is to prevent deaths from this type of cancer. Most colon cancers develop from precancerous polyps which are visible during colonoscopy. Removal of these polyps can reduce the risk of developing colorectal cancer by 90%.People with no family history of colon cancer should undergo colonoscopy every 10 years starting at age 50. People who have one 1st degree relative with colorectal cancer should start screening 10 years younger than the earliest diagnosis in the family.People with genetic risk should start screening with colonoscopy as early as age 20 to 25.Q: Besides regular screening what else can I do to lower my risk of developing colorectal cancer?A: Multiple studies have shown an almost 25% lower risk of developing colon cancer in people who exercise on regular basis. A diet that is low in red meat and high in fruits, fiber and vegetables maybe protective against colorectal cancer. There is also data to suggest that calcium either in dietary or supplemental form lowers the risk of developing colon cancer. Studies mainly out of Europe suggest that daily aspirin also reduces the risk of colon cancer. You should always discuss with your physician before starting aspirin since it can increase your risk of gastrointestinal bleeding.Q: How is colon cancer treated?A: It is primarily treated with surgery. Due to advances in surgical techniques, surgeons can perform a lot of these surgeries in a laparoscopic manner lowering the hospitalization and recovery time.Q: If all the cancer is removed by the surgeon then why do I need chemotherapy?A: If the cancer has spread to the lymph nodes then the risk is very high for cancer coming back in another part of the body which will make it incurable. Chemotherapy after the surgery is called adjuvant treatment. The goal of adjuvant treatment is to kill microscopic cancer cells and to keep them from seeding another organ.Q: What happens after the chemotherapy is over?A: The patient then undergoes surveillance with periodic blood work, colonoscopy and CT scans.Submitted by: Nuruddin Jooma, M.D. MPHPremiere Oncology, 955 10th Avenue North, Naples, FL 34102, 239-325-1440

Make your choices now, so they don't fall to your family later.Pre-planning is determining the details of your funeral and cemetery services in advance. To some, this may sound like a difficult conversation. But putting a plan in place is actually a smart and caring thing to do. With a plan, youll reduce stress for grieving loved onesand simply let them honor and celebrate your life, knowing things are happening just as you wanted. All your wishes. All with ease.Why it makes sense to make choice about your future funeral now . . . .Heres the truth: selecting a final resting place in advance makes a difficult time become solely about celebrating life and honoring who you are. The alternative is often confusion, disagreement and guesswork. So, its smart to make these choices now. That way theyre not made on your behalf, at an emotional moment.The benefits to your family will be real and appreciated, ranging from spiritual choices to financial assistance. From selecting an ideal permanent memorial, to designing the service, to paying in advance, you can make the day exactly as you imagine it. And your loved ones will know theyre fulfilling your wishes. Which is exactly how they should feel. Keep reading to learn more.Family matters.Your family is everything and the last thing youd want is to put them in a difficult position. A time of loss is a time of confusion, but your final arrangements dont have to add to the uncertainty. Pre-planning your cemetery services can save your loved ones from having to make decisions while theyre grieving. And they wont have to guess what youd want. Making pre-arrangements is the responsible thing to do. Instead of getting bogged down in details, your family will be able to focus on celebrating your life.Personal service.Funeral and burial services are an important part of the grieving process. For a lot of people, they provide a sense of closure. So the right kind of ceremony is essential. But its difficult to make the service as meaningful as it should be, in such a short amount of time. By making those plans now, including choosing songs and selecting readings, youll have the kind of service you want, for everyone you love. In addition, you can design a beautiful permanent memorial. That way, your family will have a dedicated place to reflect and remember.Financial relief.Funeral services are often an unexpected expense. But they dont have to be. You can choose to fund your pre-arranged plans now, and the costs will be locked in for the future, even if prices for various services and products increase. You dont have to pre-pay if you pre-plan, but it is the best way to take the financial burden off your family. So its definitely a smart option to consider. Also, please know that your payments and plans can be adjusted later, should your wishes change over time. Theres nothing to regret by going through the process now. Your decisions dont have to be final.Start Planning NowTo start the pre-planning process, you can fill out our pre-planning form. Or feel free to reach us by phone any time at 612-377-7841, and one of our pre-planning consultants will help guide you through every option.START PRE-PLANNING

A legal guardian or guardianship is a person who has the legal authority (and the corresponding duty) to care for the personal and property interests of another person, called a ward.#listing_mgr{7 basic_search}#

No one wakes up in the morning with a deliberate plan to fail, but I do believe many of us plan for failure by simply procrastinating because while we all know we will die it all seems so far off. Unfortunately, too often the unexpected arises, and families are left scrambling to figure out what to do for those they love. When my mothers health became such that my father had to place her in long-term care I remember telling him how much the planning to care for her might cost. He told then he would gladly pay more than that for the problem to just go away.My parents had basic estate planning in place, but what they did not have was a plan for life and a plan for death. What is a plan for life? Well, it involves basic estate planning such as a will and powers of attorney, but it also includes contingency planning for the unexpected. For example, what is the plan if one spouse needs long-term care and the other does not? What happens if both require it? What happens if one spouse is in long-term care and the stay at home spouse dies. What happens if in a situation such as the ones Ive named the families are blended; who makes what decisions for whom?A plan for death is easier, but often neglected. We found out at my mothers death that we did not have the first idea how to have my mom interred in the local VA cemetery, and we had to wade through a lot of misinformation until we got the right information.What to do then? Plan for the unexpected. Consult with the necessary professionals today so that the unexpected does not catch you unawares. The decisions you make today will affect your family tomorrow; help them to enact your wishes by giving them the tools they need to implement your plans for both life and death. The problems will not just go away.Editors Note: This article was submitted by William H. Moller, Attorney and Counselor at Law, The Moller Law Group, LLC. He may be reached at 719-694-1284, or by email at whmoller@mollerlawgroup.com.

To learn more about Abbington Manor, CLICK HERE.Our mission and passion at Abbington Senior Living is to improve the lives of people.The Abbington difference is created by focusing on our residents and improving not only their lives but the lives of everyone that loves them.These areas are among our highest priorities: Delicious food that everyone loves High-quality services through professionally trained staff Life enriching activities Creating a friendly and safe place to liveThe words of a daughter of one of our residents truly reflects this passion for all our residents.Our first visit to the Abbington was on a Saturday afternoon. The marketing director, came in special to give us a tour. She was amazing!!! She was so upbeat, so patient with all our questions, and so understanding of the difficulty of moving a parent from their home to an assisted living facility. The same can be said of all the staff. From the activities director, to the maintenance man, and all the dining room staff, the cleaning staff, the nurse and CNAs. They are all so kind and every time they see our mom, they call her by name.The move to the Abbington has been 100% positive for our mom. She can now go to church on her own, and to the beauty shop by herself. She is actually more independent at the Abbington than she was living alone in her home. She eats 3 delicious meals every day. She loves going on the bus to different places and for scenic rides. She is able to exercise, play games and most importantly she gets to mingle and socialize with others of her same age and stage in life every day! She has thanked us several times for finding this beautiful place for her to live.I have recommended the Abbington to several people. I cannot praise the facility and the staff enough; they truly are the best of state.This is our mission at Abbington Senior Living.This is our focus each day.To improve peoples lives one person at a time.

We often hear the term Care for the Caregiver, but most people do not understand the profound depth of what that means. It is documented that the caregiver for someone with a disability or illness often has more urgent medical concerns than the patient themselves. While that may seem odd to some people, just ask a caregiver when the last time they a vacation had, a night to themselves, a day to do nothing or have been to a doctor or dentist appointment. The fact is, that as caregivers, we often give all our energy and resources to the one we care for and at the end of the day, there is very little to give ourselves. Support groups, counseling and educational seminars are wonderful resources, but it has been my experience that some caregivers find the idea of an outing overwhelming. But there is hope. Just like trying to change your exercise habits or lose weight, you have to take small consistent steps and not try to run a marathon on the first day.The first step is to respect and know yourself. When you think about tools and tips that are available, use what works for you but do not be afraid to try something new. If it works, continue to do it, but if doesn't work for you, then be confident enough to move to another technique. Remember that you are more than just a caregiver. You are a valued member of the community, a mother or father, a son or daughter, a sister or brother and a friend. You are important and significant, and you deserve to take care of yourself and be happy. Your job is physically demanding, emotionally draining, time consuming, frustrating and the most wonderful, fulfilling and rewarding job you could ever have.12 Ways for a Caregiver to Stay Healthy and Happy Know what resources are available to you Become an educated caregiver by taking classes and reading articles Know when to ask for help and do not be afraid or embarrassed to ask for help Take care of yourself by going to the doctor and dentist for regular checkups Be realistic with what you are able to do both physically and emotionally Give yourself credit and remind yourself what an amazing job you do for someone in need Eat nutritious meals by snacking on fruits and vegetables instead of foods loaded with carbs and sugars Get regular exercise and fresh air by taking a walk or even just sitting outside for 5-15 min each day Get enough sleep and allow time for self-reflection each evening Talk about your feelings to someone other than who you provide care for Have fun and laugh by finding the humor and beauty in everyday life Stay positive, think good thoughts and give thanks each dayEditor's Note: This article was submitted by Sarah Engels who is the Administrator of Adult Home Care Services and may be reached at 970-874-0136 or by email at SarahE@AHCSColorado.com

As we age, we often have a greater need for medical and therapeutic services. Lee Healths Senior Care Choices program enables many seniors to remain independent in their own home and enjoy the independence they desire.Our team of Aging Life Care ProfessionalsTM - care managers and social workers - coordinate care with a number of medical and supportive services to find the best fit for each person; to make their lives more manageable and comfortable. We are their advocate, and we do this while communicating with family members who live all over the country.The goal is to keep older adults as independent as possible so they can age in place. This means staying in their current residence, whether that is a single-family home or an assisted living residence. With the services we provide, the older person may not need to move as he or she requires more comprehensive care.Our team will: Accompany client to physician appointments and communicate to families. Develop a Care Plan with input from family members and physicians, which includes a complete medical, social, safety and nutritional evaluation. Coordinate and oversee the Care Plan to be followed by all those in connection with the care of our client. Investigate benefits of home care, assisted living and nursing homes. Arrange for in-home services, such as caregivers, laundry, housekeeping, meal preparation and even installation of grab bars or other assistive devices. Coordinate the delivery of medications, meals, medical equipment, health alert devices and other items.Our team has extensive knowledge about how to assess an individuals needs, determine the best living situation for them, efficiently manage resources and provide the numerous support services to maintain independence and the best possible quality of life as they age.For more information on Lee Health Senior Care Choices, call 239-225-7718.

Before I began Maximized Livings 5 essentials, my blood sugar levels were a constant concern as a Type 2 diabetic. Even though I was taking my prescribed medications daily, monitoring my diet, and regularly testing my blood sugar levels, my blood sugar was never consistent. My levels actually soared no matter how much medication I took or how little food I ate.I finally began to find real answers for my health at Trinity Chiropractic, a Maximized Living Health Center. I was invited to follow the 5 essentials that include: mentally controlling my attitude, receiving consistent chiropractic adjustments, dedication to an elite nutritional plan, regular exercise, and attention to decreasing the toxins in my environment. While this seemed like quite a challenge, being healed from Diabetes and living a high quality of life was worth some sacrifice and hard work!After 3 months, I have lost a total of 30 pounds. My blood sugar levels have stabilized and I am taking much less medication than before! I look forward to exercise. I have more energy than I have had in months! Instead of growing older, I am holding my own and feeling younger, more positive and full of well-being.Editors Note: This article was submitted by Florence E. Hesser. To contact Trinity Chiropractic, call 239-597-6099 or visit their website www.maximizedlivingdrloman.com

For more information on the author, The Sheridan at Lakewood Ranch, CLICK HERE!Having some memory loss is a natural part of aging. Beyond the everyday annoyance of forgetfulness, according to theNational Institute on Aging, is a condition called mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Even this is a common condition and doesnt necessarily indicate something more serious. But your loved ones cognitive impairment is one key factor to weigh when deciding to move from assisted living to memory care.Not all cognitive impairment indicates dementia or Alzheimers disease. But when these conditions do arise, it may be time to consider memory care. Find out more about what cognitive impairment is common and easy to deal with, and what is a more serious indicator when it is time for memory care.What Is Common Memory Loss vs. Dementia?Having trouble with remembering names and dates is a common age-related condition, but it isnt typically something to worry about.The NIAsays that to help those dealing with forgetfulness, make sure they:Dont drink alcohol to excessExercise and eat wellGet plenty of restLearn a new skillPut their wallet or purse, keys and glasses in the same place each daySeek help if they feel depressed for weeks at a timeSpend time with family and friendsStay involved in activities that can help both the mind and bodyUse memory tools such as write-on calendars, notes and to-do listsVolunteer in their community, at a school or at a place of worshipAlzheimers Disease and DementiaAlzheimers disease and other dementia are more serious conditions.According to the Mayo Clinic, dementia describes a group of symptoms affecting memory and the ability to think clearly. Dementia also causes disruptions in behavioral and social skills. Alzheimers disease is the most common cause of dementia, accounting for 60% to 80% of cases.The NIAcompares normal aging-related memory loss with the realities of Alzheimers disease:Normal AgingAlzheimers DiseaseMaking poor decisions once in a whileMaking bad decisions and judgments a lot of the timeMissing a monthly paymentDifficulties taking care of monthly billsForgetting which day it is but remembering laterLosing track of the date or time of yearSometimes forgetting which word to useTrouble having a conversationOccasionally losing thingsOften misplacing things being unable to find themMore serious cognitive impairment may indicate dementia and Alzheimers disease. Those with Alzheimers or dementia have other symptoms besides simple memory loss. Some of the more serious psychological changes that dementia patients exhibit,according to the Mayo Clinic, include:AgitationAnxietyDepressionHallucinationsInappropriate behaviorParanoiaPersonality changesIf somebody is exhibiting these behaviors, it is important to visit a doctor for a firm diagnosis. It also may be time to consider memory care at a senior community.When Is it Time for Memory Care?During the early stages of dementia or Alzheimers disease, many patients can live on their own or with in-home support from family members or a paid caregiver.There can be a point, however, when you may need to make the difficult decision to seek memory care for your loved one. Here are some questions,from the AARP, to help you decide as a caregiver whether its time to move a loved one to memory care:Are you becoming impatient, irritable, and stressed?Are you beyond your physical abilities in caring for your loved one?Are you worrying constantly about your loved ones safety or your own safety?Are you neglecting work responsibilities, your family, and yourself?Are you risking the health of your loved one, or yourself?Would the social interaction and structure of a memory care community help?Other factors should be taken into consideration, such as the loved one exhibiting changes in behavior, hygiene, disorientation, wandering and incontinence.While not all of these points need to be met, caregivers will know in their gut when it is time for a memory care facility. Memory care communities can give your loved one the care and environment they need.What Is Memory Care?Independent living and assisted living are two levels of oversight and care for aging adults. They offer professional staff, dining, and other amenities to meet different levels of needs.Memory care is a different level of care for those with cognitive impairment, ranging from MCI to dementia to Alzheimer's. The amenities and surroundings offered are intended to help these residents find comfort, safety, and peace when memory care is needed.Memory care communities provide:Personal careCleaning and laundryMeals and nutritionPet-friendly places>>Find a memory care communityA Special Program of Care for SeniorsAnother level of assistance is Senior Lifestyles award-winning embrace Memory Care. This program, available at some Senior Lifestyle communities, offers specialized programs to help seniors with dementia live fulfilling lives.The programs Included in embrace are customized according to these dimensions of wellness:MOVE (Physical) Physical activity, nutrition, and health education to encourage self-care of the bodyGROW (Intellectual) Stimulation and use of ones mindFEEL (Emotional) Experiences that provide support, increase self-esteem, and provide funREFLECT (Spiritual) Connection to the human spirit and helping us find meaningCONNECT (Social) Development of relationships that provide a deeper connection and opportunity to nurture each otherCONTRIBUTE (Vocational) Volunteer pursuits that help residents to reach out to each other and outside the community

The constant consternation played out by retirees over the Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM) is bewildering. People choose to struggle in retirement by completely ignoring the fact that they have equity in their home.Unlocking the equity in the home can greatly benefit the homeowner and make it possible to age in place more comfortably. A recent AARP Survey concluded that 76% of older adults prefer to age in place. Ultimately there is an impending retirement crisis in America and Home Equity could be the solution for many people. Most retirement accounts are underfunded, people are forced to work beyond regular retirement years or take part-time jobs to make ends meet and for the majority of people Social Security is the primary source of household income. Even if you did plan well, the addition of a HECM to the overall plan typically improves all outcomes and reduces the likelihood of outliving your money.At AAG we have an agnostic approach to home equity. We can help you sell your house to get access to the equity, we can do a first mortgage to help someone utilize a portion of the equity or we can assist with a HECM that offers a variety of features to meet the needs of a potential borrowers unique fingerprint. In most cases, for those 62 or better who want to age it place the HECM can be the best decision. You have government guaranteed product that allows the borrower to access a portion of the equity in their home as needed in a number of ways. Perhaps $300/month for life (in the home) or $1000.00/month for 10 years would be helpful, or you could pay off a mortgage thus eliminating the monthly principal and interest (still have to pay taxes and insurance) that is cutting into monthly cash flow, finally simply establishing the HECM line of credit for future use of funds later in life can be a great addition to a retirement plan.Throughout life people are posed with the opportunity to borrow against the equity in their home for a myriad of reasons. Remodel a home, new windows, consolidate debt, pay for college, buy a car are all common choices for many homeowners as they work to pay of their house before retirement. Then suddenly when cash fl ow becomes even more important most retirees stick their heads in the sand and ignore their biggest asset. Avoid the impending crisis, plan for the future, and realize that a HECM isnt for desperate people, it is a tool to help you Retire Better!Editors Note: This article was submitted by Richard Glover, Reverse Mortgage Professional with American Advisors Group and may be reached at 630 660 8444 or by e mail at rglover@aag.com

Massage is the practice of soft tissue manipulation with physical, functional, and in some cases psychological purposes and goals. Massage involves acting on and manipulating the body with pressure structured, unstructured, stationary, or moving tension, motion, or vibration, done manually or with mechanical aids.#listing_mgr{7 basic_search}#

The Community Foundation is launching a new service Collier 211 Information and Referral (I&R) with the help of many community partners and donors interested in gaining more information about the programs they fund. Collier 211 is a federally designated phone number and works like 911, but for non-emergency calls. The information for referrals comes from Collier nonprofits, critical for-profits and government providers of service. In many communities across the U.S. 211 Information and Referral service is the single most important resource for providing real-time data on needed services, especially for their most vulnerable citizens.In order to offer the highest quality service available, the Community Foundation is contracting with nonprofit Switchboard of Miami to provide 211 Information and Referral for Collier County. Switchboard of Miami was established in 1968. Their mission is to connect people in need with community resources, strengthen and preserve families, and develop and provide services where none exist. They offer comprehensive telephone crisis counseling and information and referral services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Their caring multilingual, professional staff and volunteers are available to respond in any language.Switchboard received more than 180,000 calls from the Miami-Dade community in 2009-10. These calls came from all over, such as families seeking help with basic needs; teenagers asking assistance on matters related to suicide, substance abuse, physical abuse, or sexual abuse; victims of domestic violence; and individuals with concerns related to suicide. Switchboard of Miami also provides additional counseling programs for seniors, teens, families of military employees and others.We are very fortunate to have such a highly-qualified and experienced resource available to Collier County says Colleen Murphy, president and CEO of the Community Foundation of Collier County. In addition, we will work closely with community-specific information and referral services in Collier County to create the most comprehensive program for our community.It will cost approximately $200,000 a year to operate Collier 211. To date, several major sponsors have stepped forward to help start up this needed program: Wasmer Schroeder & Company, the United Way and Youth Haven, but we need additional help. A fundraising appeal was launched on May 11 with the help of The Arlington, Inc., and its director Vicki Tracy.For more information on how you can help launch this service, and the benefits of a corporate donation, please call the Community Foundation at 649-5000 or visit our website at www.cfcollier.org.Editors Note: This article was submitted by Colleen Murphy, President & CEO Community Foundation of Collier County.

When you relocate to a manufactured home community, you dont just move into a neighborhood, you become a part of a community.Todays manufactured home communities are all about its residents and the active lifestyles they lead. Tropical Palms and Island Vista Estates are among a few premier communities in North Fort Myers that offer superior independent living options.At Tropical Palms and Island Vista Estates, you can enjoy an array of amenities like swimming pools and planned events on properties that were built with exceptional architectural design. Its so easy to stay connected and involved with friends and neighbors through social activities and community events. You can stay as relaxed or as busy as you want!FINDING A HOMETodays lifestyle communities are much more than streets filled with outdated homes that all look alike. Today, manufactured homes are built with the same materials as modern, land-built homes and include the same must-have features.Manufactured homes of today are safer and more comfortable to live in than the manufactured homes of the past. Modern exterior and interior finishes, upgraded light fixtures, energy-saving appliances, and open floor plans are just some of the improved features of the manufactured homes built today. When considering relocation, you will find more than just a new home at Tropical Palms and Island Vista Estates, you will find a new piece of yourself, immersed in new friendships and in beautiful locations. Make the choice to live the community lifestyle, today!

Our mission and vision: All Smiles Adult Day Care Center is dedicated to fulfilling the needs of the community by providing a warm and safe environment in which its seniors can maintain the social and educational facets of their daily lives by continuing to enhance the continuity, security and unity of the community.All Smiles Adult Day Care Center embarked on its journey of providing a safe, secure and healthy environment for seniors of the Venice area community. Specializing in Alzheimers and Dementia-related disorders, our professionally-trained staff will work with you to provide a daily regiment of activities to keep your loved ones healthy and engaged with the respect and dignity they deserve.Im Genevieve, owner and operator of All Smiles adult day care center. My passion for seniors and their well-being began when I was 10 and started taking senior-aqua aerobics during my summers here in Venice while visiting my grandparents!All Smiles offers everything that you need for your loved one to be in a safe, comfortable and enriching environment. During this time the caregiver is either on respite, going to appointments, meeting friends or doing nothing at all!We specialize but are not limited to caring for those with Alzheimers. We offer educational and interactive games and exercises. Meals, snacks and transportation are also available.Not all of our loved ones need constant care. We are here to fill the gap and to provide an alternative to in-home care.The day programs include organized social activities, games, snacks and meals as well as professional supervision.We have a budget that will fit your needs offering hourly (min four hours), as well as daily and weekly rates. Discounted services apply to daily and weekly rates.Editors Note: This article was provided by Genevieve Barbeau-Nassar Owner /Operator of Alll Smiles Adult Day Care she can be reached at 417 South Tamiami Trail Venice, FL 34285; by email at genevieve@allsmilesadcc.com; or by phone at (941) 228-4571

For more information on the author Comfort Keepers Sarasota, CLICK HERE.Urinary incontinence is an issue that more than half of seniors deal with, and it can affect a seniors health, social connections, and self-esteem. Managing incontinence is critical for seniors that want to maintain their independence and quality of life while remaining in their home.*New guidelines released in 2018 recommend that women be screened for issues that cause incontinence on a yearly basis.While incontinence is a highly prevalent issue, its important to remember that incontinence is treatable, and a physician can make recommendations based on the type of incontinence they diagnose.Why Does Incontinence Happen?During urination, muscles in the bladder tighten to move urine into a tube called the urethra, while the muscles around the urethra relax and let the urine pass out of the body. When the muscles in and around the bladder dont work properly, urine can leak. Incontinence can occur for shortperiods of time due to urinary tract infections, constipation, or as a side effect of a medication.How is Incontinence Diagnosed and Treated?Depending on the severity of the problem, a doctor may recommend any or all of the following:A urinalysis to rule out infection or blood in the urineBlood tests to check on kidney function, calcium and glucose levelsA complete physical exam and thorough discussion of ones medical historyMedicine that calms muscles and nerves to treat an overactive bladder.Exercises to strengthen the pelvic musclesIf other treatments fail, surgery may be suggested to improve bladder control.How Can Incontinence be Managed at Home?There are a few lifestyle changes that can help manage incontinence:Pelvic muscle exercises: Working the muscles that can stop urination can have a positive effect in reducing incontinence.Timed bathroom breaks: Going to the restroom on a schedule can help those with urge and overflow incontinence.Fluid and diet management: Avoid food and drinks that irritate the bladder. Its important for seniors to discuss their diet and fluid intake with the doctor before making any changes.Behavioral changes: There are some habits that can make incontinence worse. These include smoking, drinking alcohol, lifting objects that are too heavy and consuming caffeine, among others.Comfort KeepersCan HelpIf your loved one has specific care needs related to a health issue, like incontinence, we can help. Our caregivers can provide transportation to appointments, medication reminders, support for physician-recommended diet and exercise programs, and help monitor physical changes and symptoms. And, we strive to elevate the human spirit through quality, compassionate, joyful care.To learn more about our in-home care services, contact your local Comfort Keepers location today.

Want to stay in your own home? Do you cherish your memories? Are your family and friends close by? Do you like being on your own schedule?#1 Make an Entryway AccessibleInstall a modular ramp for entry to front, back, or side door. This will eliminate stairs for individuals who have mobility challenges or use a wheelchair a scooter. A modular ramp can be assembled in one day, is removable and reusable, fireproof, slip resistant, and has handrails.#2 Install Rails and Grab Bars Inside or OutsideSometimes a little extra stability is needed. A handrail on the opposite side of the stairs can provide much comfort when climbing or descending stairs. Grab bars come in different sizes and can be installed anywhere in the home.#3 Install a Stair LiftWhen stairs become challenging, a stair lift offers a great solution. Stair lifts are easily mounted with minimal changes to the stairs. Stair lifts come in varying indoor and outdoor models with an array of features such as remote control, swivel seats, battery back up, and more.Many individuals painstakingly crawl up and down steps. Do not wait! This is an easy modification that will pay for itself. Stair lifts will take you from one floor to the next with ease and make your daily life enjoyable.#4 Portable and Threshold RampsOne or two steps or an uneven surface can become troublesome. These small areas of raised surfaces are often the biggest causes of a trip and fall accident. There are many styles of aluminum and rubber ramps that can provide a smooth transition for you to maneuver.#5 Make a Bathroom AccessibleMany falls and slips happen in the bathroom. Modifications will allow you to avoid hazards that could cause accidents.? Install a walk-in shower to eliminate tripping hazards.? Install a lower sink to easily reach the handles and basin.? Install a toilet of appropriate height to ease sitting and standing? Strategically place grab bars in shower or next to toilet for added stability.Easy and affordable modification will enable you to stay safe and independent in your home! Enjoy your surroundings and make the most of every day!_______________________________________Editors Note: This article was contributed by Nick Marcellino of Amramp. See their ad on page 65.

Chances are, everyone has experienced a headache at least once in their life. However, some people suffer from chronic headaches or even migraines. While a tension headache is more common and usually lasts a few hours at most, a migraine can last much longer and be more debilitating. In this article, well discuss how you can tell the difference between these conditions and when you should see a doctor.What is a migraine?For starters, a migraine isnotjust a severe headache. Its actually a neurological disease that often causes severe throbbing or pulsing pain over a period of several hours or even days.SymptomsTypical symptoms, in addition to intense head pain, include the following:Nausea and/or vomitingPain in the face, temples or one side of the headPain in the jaw or behind the eyes or earsExtreme sensitivity to light and/or soundsTemporary vision lossSeeing wavy lines, flashing lights or spotsAccording to theMigraine Research Foundation, migraines are most common in people between the ages of 18 - 44. However, they can begin in childhood and carry into adulthood. Migraines also tend to run in families with about 90 percent of migraine sufferers having a family history of the condition.StagesNo migraine is the same; but once a migraine begins, people can experience one or all of the following stages:Prodrome. This pre-headache phase often occurs one or two days before a migraine attack and can include signs such as mood swings, neck stiffness, frequent yawning, or food cravings.Aura. A form of sensory disturbances, auras can occur before or during a migraine and last about 20 to 60 minutes. Auras are usually visual in nature (such as spots, flashes of light, or blurred vision) but can also affect a persons speech or sense of touch.Headache. Once a migraine attack begins, the pain can range from mild to severe and can worsen due to physical activity, light, sounds, or smells. If untreated, a migraine can last from four hours to several days, but some people can have a migraine without developing a headache.Postdrome. After the migraine pain has subsided, some people feel confused, unwell, weak, or physical/mental exhaustion; others feel a sense of euphoria.What causes migraines?While tension headaches are often caused by stress, fatigue, or anxiety, the exact cause of migraines are not fully known. Often migraines are brought on by triggers, which vary from person to person and influenced by genetic or environmental factors.Some common migraine triggers include:Excessive physical activityHormonal shifts. Women are more susceptible to migraines due to fluctuations in estrogen caused by hormonal medications, pregnancy, menopause, or before/during menstrual periods.AllergiesStress in the workplace or at homeBeverages such as certain alcohols (like wine with sulfites) or those with caffeineStrong smells, including perfumes, chemicals or cigarette smokeBright lights or loud soundsChanges in sleep patternsChanges in the weather, such as a drop in barometric pressureFood additives such as artificial sweeteners or MSGHow are migraines treated?Even though there is no specific cure for migraine headaches, the right medication and lifestyle changes can help prevent future migraine attacks or alleviate symptoms.The general treatment options for migraines are grouped into these categories:Preventative Therapies & Medications.The goal of preventative treatment is to stop or reduce the severity or frequency of migraines. Non-pharmacologic treatments include lifestyle changes and physical therapy, but certain medications may be prescribed to help manage the symptoms of chronic migraine (15 or more attacks a month). However, some medications used for the treatment of depression and high blood pressure conditions have also been found to be helpful for migraine sufferers.Pain Relieving Medications. These types of medications are intended to treat migraine attacks as they occur by helping to stop the symptoms before they get worse. These therapies include over-the-counter pain relievers and prescription drugs.Ultimately, the recommended treatments will depend on the severity, frequency, and duration of the migraine attacks; the most common or debilitating symptoms during the migraine; and a persons current and past medical conditions. Available treatments, as well as the possible side effects of medications, should be discussed with a medical doctor or migraine specialist.When should I see a doctor?Even if you have a history of headaches, a migraine can be sporadic or even go undiagnosed. According to theAmerican Migraine Foundation, less than five percent of people who suffer from migraines have been seen by a healthcare provider. Unfortunately, this means many people suffer without getting treatment for their condition. So, listen to your body and keep track of any headache changes, especially as it relates to frequency or pain.In general, in order to rule out other serious medical conditions, you should see a doctor if you have migraines once a week or more; your headaches cause moderate to severe pain accompanied by nausea or vomiting, sensitivity to light or noise; over-the-counter pain relievers are ineffective or being used more than twice a week to treat symptoms; or your migraine attacks make you unable to work or interferes with other everyday activities.You should seek emergency medical attention if you have an intense headache after an injury; a chronic headache that worsens after physical exertion or sudden movement; or a headache that is accompanied by seizures, trouble speaking, numbness, or double vision.ConclusionMigraines can be a serious medical condition. Coastal Orthopedics is here to help. Our pain management specialists are committed to developing the right treatment options best suited for each patient so that they can get back to living life. For more information, click here!Written & Submitted By: Coastal Orthopedics- click here for more information*

We believe dealing with hearing loss is a team effort, so we want to help you during this stressful and challenging time. If you suspect or have been diagnosed with hearing loss, the good news is that Beltone is here to support you on your journey to better hearing.Hearing what is being said and what is going on is more important now than ever before. If you are one of the roughly 48 million Americans suffering from some degree of hearing loss, Beltone understands you may be struggling more during the COVID-19 pandemic.But remember, you are not alone. We believe dealing with hearing loss is a team effort, so we want to help you during this stressful and challenging time. If you suspect or have been diagnosed with hearing loss, the good news is that Beltone is here to support you on your journey to better hearing.Hearing aids can make a big difference, especially when you find the right instruments and have the right help to adjust them as needed. While hearing aids cannot cure hearing loss, they can prevent hearing loss from getting worse and improve the quality of your hearing.Even better, science shows hearing aids significantly improve the quality of life of hearing-impaired people. According to the Better Hearing Institute, eight out of 10 hearing aid wearers say theyre satisfied with the changes that have occurred in their lives specifically due to their hearing aids. Hearing aid wearers have reported:Increased sense of control and independenceImproved mood, reducing negative emotional consequences of hearing loss such as depression and anxietyStronger relationships with loved ones, reducing social isolationIncreased earning power, allowing you to be more productive in the workplaceBetter hearing is better living, which is why allowing hearing loss to go untreated can have a negative impact on your quality of life. The impact goes well beyond missing a few words in conversations and having to ask people to repeat what they say. An inability to hear words clearly can negatively affect your family, social and work lives, as well as harm your overall health.Beltone wants to help you take the first step toward better hearing.They have 9 locations throughout the Greater Pittsburgh Area, give them a call at 877-759-4707 to schedule a complimentary hearing screen at a location near you.

The need for hospice services for military veterans has never been greater, but often those who were the first to answer our nations call for help are among the last to seek help when they need it. Today, more than 37 percent of the veteran population is 65 years or older. More than 1,800 veterans die every day, but most veterans still die in their communities only 4% occur in Veterans Administration facilities. There are many reasons why veterans do not seek end-of-life care. A culture of stoicism might prevent veterans from admitting to being in pain, or from asking for pain medication. Some may suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), with symptoms that can include social isolation, alcohol abuse, and anxieties. However, much of avoided care comes down to education. The benefits of hospice care can meet the special needs these brave men and women have at the end of life. VA and hospice programs have learned a critical lesson in caring for dying veterans: A patients military service history is highly relevant to providing the most appropriate, personalized end-of-life care. Although hospices routinely ask and record their patients age, family make-up, racial/ethnic group and religion at the time of enrollment, far too few ask about service status. But they should. There may be health coverage and benefit issues, if the veteran is enrolled at a local VAMC or would like to be, along with burial and other benefits. When seeking hospice care for a veteran, it is important to ask about services that will meet his or her specific needs based upon the timeframe of service. Some hospices have developed care programs specifically designed for the conflict the veteran served in, such as World War II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War. Some also have specially trained volunteers, many of whom are veterans themselves, to assist with care and comfort. This gives the patients a level of comfort knowing that those who are taking care of them have been through many of the same things they have. For some veterans, the effect of combat experience may remain buried for years, emerging only when they are very sick and dying. Finding the right end-of-life care can make all the difference. Hospice is a choice to live life to its fullest, empowering patients and their families to redefine hope in the last months of life. Finding a hospice that has made it its goal to care for veterans is another way to honor their sacrifice. -Devin Limb is Executive Director of United Hospice in Meridian.

To learn more aboutThe Wellington - MBK Senior Living,CLICK HERE.Home-like, beautiful environments inside and out. Enduring connections with family, friends and staff. Feeling safe and secure. Exercise and wellness opportunities. Delicious cuisine and flexible dining options. Engaging experiences and daily activities. High-quality services and support. These are a just a few of the reasons our residents tell us theyre happy living in an MBK Senior Living community.Fact is, we frequently hear from residents that they wish theyd make the move sooner. Residents quickly find that MBK communities offers an unrivaled low-maintenance lifestyle with top-level amenities, services, high-quality, compassionate care and exceptional programming. All of which translates into engaging, fulfilling and happy resident days.But dont just take our word for it. According to a recent article in McKnights Senior Living (a national media publication that provides news, perspective and analysis for senior living industry owners and operators), studies show that retirement community residents are happier than other older adults. Whats more, of those surveyed the majority stated that their quality of life improved within a year of moving into a senior living community.So, whats holding you back from living a happier lifestyle?Click hereto find an MBK Senior Living community near you and schedule a personal tour today.

To learn more about Adult Case Management,CLICK HERE.Why did you start Adult Case Management? Great question, thanks for askingI started Adult Case Management after years of helping seniors find assisted living options withCarePatrol of Utah. With CarePatrol of Utah, we are able to help individuals find the safest long-term care options but we are limited to private paying clients. Over the years we helped hundreds of families but also had many requests from families without the ability to privately pay for assisted living or long-term care. We could help, but at some point our services were limited. By starting a New Choices Waiver Case Management company, we could offer the same first class service to those seeking long-term care placement on Medicaid.CarePatrol of Utah is a senior placement agency that helps families find the safest assisted living, independent living, memory care or in-home care. Our local Utah based team (Pictured above) has been to and works with virtually every place along the Wasatch Front. Our database and personal information is unmatched in the industry. With our experience and relationships we can offer clients the best and safest care options regardless of their payer source.Is there a conflict of interest with Adult Case Management and CarePatrol of Utah? Great follow-up question and something the State NCW office takes very seriously. Frankly, this is one major reasons I start this case management company. With CarePatrol of Utah working with private paying clients for assisted living and Adult Case Management working with those on Medicaid and the New Choices Waiver, we will never financial benefit from the same client in both companies. If the client can privately pay for assisted living, we will service that client through CarePatrol of Utah. If the client is on Medicaid, then Adult Case Management will service that client. These two sister companies are completely complimentary and void of any conflict.

For More Information on the Author Paul Andrews, ERA Advantage Reality, CLICK HERE!In the olden days, when someone wanted a home loan they walked downtown to the neighborhood bank or savings & loan. If the bank had extra funds lying around and considered you a good credit risk, they would lend you the money from their own funds.It doesnt generally work like that anymore. Most of the money for home loans comes from three major institutions:Fannie Mae (FNMA - Federal National Mortgage Association)Freddie Mac (FHLMC - Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation)Ginnie Mae (GNMA - Government National Mortgage Association)This is how it works:You talk to practically any lender and apply for a loan. They do all the processing and verifications and finally, you own the house with a home loan and regular mortgage payments. You might be making payments to the company who originated your loan, or your loan might have been transferred to another institution. The institution where you mail your payments is called the servicer, but most likely they do not own your loan. They are simply servicing your loan for the institution that does own it.What happens behind the scenes is that your loan got packaged into a pool with a lot of other loans and sold off to one of the three institutions listed above. The servicer of your loan gets a monthly fee from the investor for servicing your loan. This fee is usually only 3/8ths of a percent or so, but the amount adds up. There are companies that service over a billion dollars of home loans and it is a tidy income.At the same time, whichever institution packaged your loan into the pool for Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, or Ginnie Mae, has received additional funds with which to make more loans to other borrowers. This is the cycle that allows institutions to lend you money.What Freddie Mac, Ginnie Mae, and Fannie Mae may do after they purchase the pools is break them down into smaller increments of $1,000 or so, called mortgage-backed securities. They sell these mortgage-backed securities to individuals or institutions on Wall Street. If you have a 401K or mutual fund, you may even own some. Perhaps you have heard of Ginnie Mae bonds? Those are securities backed by the mortgages on FHA and VA loans.These bonds are not ownership in your loan specifically, but a piece of ownership in the entire pool of loans, of which your loan is only one among many. By selling the bonds, Ginnie Mae, Freddie Mac, and Fannie Mae obtain new funds to buy new pools so lenders can get more money to lend to new borrowers.And that is how the cycle works.So when you make your payment, the servicer gets to keep their tiny part and the majority is passed on to the investor. Then the investor passes on the majority of it to the individual or institutional investor in the mortgage backed securities.From time to time your loan may be transferred from the company where you have been making your payment to another company. They arent selling your loan again, just the right to service your loan.There are exceptions.Loans above $333,700 do not conform to Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac guidelines, which is why they are called non-conforming loans, or jumbo loans. These loans are packaged into different pools and sold to different investors, not Freddie Mac or Fannie Mae. Then they are securitized and for the most part, sold as mortgage backed securities as well.This buying and selling of mortgages and mortgage-backed securities is called mortgage banking, and it is the backbone of the mortgage business.

Conflict is a normal, natural part of everyones life. Factors that can exacerbate conflict include the well-known things to avoid in polite conversation: religion, politics and money. For families, these big three topics quickly trigger emotions that can be difficult to defuse and when things go awry the aftermath can be felt for decades.According to a May 2018 AARP article Millennials: The Emerging Generation of Family Caregivers, there are 40 million family caregivers in the United States, a quarter of which are millennials. Millennials are loosely defined, but typically considered to be those born between the years 1980-1996. This means that 1 in 4 of the family caregivers are between the ages of 18-38; the same population that according to the Pew Research Center , made up 82% of US births in 2016. This sandwich generation is in charge of a maintaining a fine balance of taking care of their parents, their children and themselves.One woman in her early 30s called our office a few months ago sharing with us that her and her husband have their two children living with them along with both of her parents and it was becoming just too much to handle. She wanted to set-up a mediation with her brothers and parents (one of which has Alzheimers) to work out a better arrangement. Two of our trained mediators took on the case and starting their job of being neutral, confidential facilitators. The mediators did individual prep phone calls or meetings with all the of the parties. When the day arrived, the mediation took place at the house where the elders lived to accommodate their needs and comfort. The mediators began the session by reviewing the agreement to mediate that includes ground rules and confidentiality of both the mediators and those at the mediation. Each party gets uninterrupted time to share their thoughts and feelings and then the conversation begins. The mediators are in the charge of the processmaking sure people are getting heard and understood, get to the underlying interests and issues at hand and finally, writing up a practical agreement that works for everyone involved. At the end of three hours the family learned just how afraid the dad was about going to a retirement community, how the mother needed additional care along with how all of the siblings felt about working together. The agreement included next steps on research for retirement home possibilities, along with medical and financial assistance. For this family, and many others, mediation provided an opportunity to open up and talk about difficult issues in a safe space. Their relationships were able to weather the storm of this life milestone because they chose to listen to each other and together create their own solution.Editors Note: This article was submitted by Mila Pilz, Executive Director, Program Operations of Lancaster-based Advoz Mediation and Restorative Practices.https://www.aarp.org/content/dam/aarp/ppi/2018/05/millennial-family-caregivers.pdfhttp://www.pewresearch.org/fact-tank/2018/05/04/more-than-a-million-millennials-are-becoming-moms-each-year/

Jane Silverstain is enjoying the caressing rays of the morning sun. Her husband, Benjamin is seated next to her helping to hold her favorite coffee cup and steady her tremulous hands. Jane has Parkinsons disease as well as dementia. Benjamin, also in his late 80s had a recent heart attack and his chronic diabetes has decreased the sensation in his feet.A knock at the door by Mary, their caregiver, is a welcome interruption to their morning quiet time. It is time for their medications, assisting Jane with bathing and dressing the wounds from the ulcers on Benjamins feet.Oh Mary, good to see you! Mrs. Silverstain responds, acknowledging her with a big smile and recognizing Mary who has been her care giver for the last year. Jane will now accept assistance with activities of daily living and is cooperative. Benjamin can go grocery shopping after Mary dresses his wounds.Dementia is a subject that most people try to avoid but as the fastest growing disease worldwide each of us will be confronted by it directly or indirectly. In the United States there are already an estimated five million suffering from Alzheimers, the seventh leading cause of death.Home Health Agencies in their efforts to provide comprehensive skilled nursing care must also be well versed in addressing dementia cases. The fundamental principle is to set daily routines. In the case of Jane small details such as a favorite cup, while it may not matter to the caregiver, may be crucial for the assisted person.Routines provide maximum independence with minimal assistance while maintaining the dignity of the individual by:Maintaining functionality though daily exercise (mental and physical)Reducing anxiety for the caregiver and the person with dementiaGiving the person with dementia the comfort needed to accomplish their daily tasksOrganizing the delivery of care by the caregiverDecreasing the chance of challenging behaviorsFostering independenceIncreasing self-esteem and confidenceAdjusting routines as dementia progresses by simplifying complexAs dementia cases are expected to increase, competency in caring for the individual with dementia is a big challenge. Family members and Home Health Agencies need to place emphasis on understanding the complex nature of dementia. It is easy to dress a wound or administer medications, but behind these needs is a person whose dignity and independence should be valued and upheld.By Moses Wananu, MD, Medical Director Golden Age Home Health LLC.

- by Kelly Smith Papa, RN, MSN, Corporate Director of Learning for MasonicareIn almost twenty years of working in aging services, my favorite moments have always been learning what brings happiness to the seniors I am entrusted to care for.If you google the definition of happiness, 25 million results emerge. Studies showed that the habits of happy people include living with purpose, having a positive outlook for the future and the resilience to bounce back from sad events.In aging services, we are afforded a unique opportunity: to learn from our elders, some with frailty, cognitive deficits or disease, what brings them happiness after decades of life, and what are the things they find to be the most important for quality of life. Then we get the privilege of finding ways to bring happiness into their lives.I was blessed with having close relationships with all four of my grandparents before they passed away. As I think about what made them happy, I am mindful that their enthusiasm for the things that brought them happiness taught me so much about life. Each of my grandparents shared the wisdom of their life legacy, their unique sparks, their faith in God, compassion for others and their connection to family. As a nurse and educator, it is my privilege to be a part of a team dedicated to learning more about the lives of the people we are entrusted to care for. It is a joy to find ways to bring more happiness into their days.There are wonderful books that offer thoughtful ideas on happiness and aging. Dr. Bill Thomas book, A Life Worth Living, and Jolene Brackeys book, Creating Moments of Joy, offer insights for bringing happiness, quality of life and deep relationships with seniors, including those with dementia. The book Legacy by Linda Spence provides reflective questions to help us unlock the memories which make up a life.When it comes to living a life with happiness, the answers are personal and limitless.

For More Information on VITAS Healthcare inCollier County, CLICK HERE!ByBob Johnson,RN,general manager for VITAS Healthcare inCollier CountyAs the family of patient Jos Pacheco gathered at his home for a veterans recognition ceremony, the elderly veteran began talking about his service during World War II.Some ofMr.Pacheco's family members had never heard his stories, including a grandson who had asked to be excused from school that day to be at his grandfathers side.Everybody knows how few and far between our WWII veterans are, VITAS nurse Nancy explains. "Its almost like youre witnessing something indescribable. You know each veterans time will be short, yet here we are in the presence of an American hero. It makes everyone really emotional.Driven bydutyVITAS Healthcare, the nations leading provider of end-of-life care, honors veterans every day. Driven by a sense of duty and empowered by veteran-specific care, we help Americas treasured servicemembers navigate their final days, weeks, and months in comfort and dignity.With over 40 years of experience providing hospice and palliative care to the nations veterans, VITAS has the expertise to guide dying servicemembers toward closure and peace of mind.Bedside salutes, Veterans Day ceremonies,and individualized care plans that honor veterans unique experiences and needs near the end of life are core components of VITAS hospice care.VITAS also supports the families of veterans by helping them secure benefits from the Department ofVeterans Affairs, arranging military funerals and burials, and recording the details of their loved ones lives in touching Life Biographies.Well-deserved honorsTo recognizeMr.Pacheco and his family,Nancypresented the veteran with a certificate of appreciation, a pin, and a red-white-and-blue volunteer-crochetedafghan. She read lines from one of her favorite poems, It Is a Soldier.It is the soldier, not the minister, who has given us freedom of religion...It is the soldier, not the reporter, who has given us freedom of the press...It is the soldier, not the lawyer, who has given us the right to a fair trial...It is the soldier, not the politician, who has given us the right to vote...Then she saluted her patient, gave him permission to stand down, and thanked him for his service.His family kept saying that no one ever honored him the way we did,Nancysays, and that always makes me feel good.

To learn more about AccentCare Hospice,CLICK HEREBlood pressure checks are a common reason for visits to your healthcare provider. Yet, for less than the cost of a single appointment, you may be able to purchase your own blood pressure monitor. This way you can check the reading yourself at home.Blood pressure is the force of blood against the walls of your arteries. Blood pressure readings tend to vary, depending on many factors, including stress levels and time of day. Your blood pressure reading in a healthcare provider's office can be as much as 20 or 30 points higher. The nervousness of being there can be enough to increase blood pressure.Home blood pressure kitsYou may buy blood pressure monitorsat pharmacies, medical supply stores, and discount chain stores. An electronic digital monitor that is battery operated is often easier to use than the more traditional blood pressure cuff. Electronic monitors usually cost more.Its important to check the accuracy of either type of monitor every so often.One way to make sure your monitor is accurate is to take it with you to your next healthcare provider appointment. Take your blood pressure with your monitor and compare it with the reading from your provider's monitor.Ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist to recommend a monitor for you. Keep in mind that if you have a large upper arm, you'll need a special, large cuff to get a correct reading.Read the instructionsEach type of blood pressure monitor works differently. Be sure to read the instructions that come with yours. Ask your healthcare provider, nurse, or pharmacist to teach you how to use it. Many people can check their own blood pressure at home without difficulty. Some need help from a family member or friend.Your home blood pressure reading is more likely to be accurate if you do the following:Don't take readings within a half-hour after smoking, exercising, or drinking beverages with caffeine.Take 2 or 3 readings at least 1 minute apart, and average the results.Take readings at different times during the day, or on several days at different times.Before you take your blood pressure, sit for 5 minutes with your back supported and your feet flat on the ground. Rest your arm on a table at the level of your heart.Use the bathroom before taking your reading. A full bladder can change the results.Blood pressure measurements are given as two numbers. Systolic blood pressure is the upper number. This is the pressure when the heart contracts. Diastolic blood pressure is the lower number. This is the pressure when the heart relaxes between beats. Both numbers in a blood pressure reading are important. As we grow older, systolic blood pressure is particularly important.Blood pressure is categorized as normal, elevated, or stage 1 or stage 2 high blood pressure:Normalblood pressure is systolic of less than 120 and diastolic of less than 80 (120/80)Elevatedblood pressure is systolic of 120 to 129anddiastolic less than 80Stage 1high blood pressure is systolic is 130 to 139ordiastolic between 80 to 89Stage 2high blood pressure is when systolic is 140 or higherorthe diastolic is 90 or higherGet medical care right away if your blood pressure is much higher or lower than expected. Whenever you visit your healthcare provider, take your blood pressure record with you.As a monitor ages, it may become less accurate. If the equipment or monitor you have is older than 5 years, you may need a new monitor. Take your monitor with you to your healthcare appointments and check the accuracy of the monitor against the reading the providers are getting.

Jeanne Clement is the longest living person in modern history. She was born in 1875, met Van Gogh at 14, learned to fence at 85, gave up riding a bicycle at 100, walked freely at 114, quit smoking at 117 and lived until she was over 122 years old in 1997.We are living longer than ever. Centenarians are the fastest growing segment of the population 102 may become the new 75. As we live longer, we want to enjoy improved healthspan alongside increased lifespan. Diet, exercise, sociability, mental challenge and sense of purpose make the difference not only in how long we live but in how well we live. Groundbreaking scientific research of the longest living people on Earth spells out precisely what it takes to delay or escape Alzheimers and other chronic diseases, slow down the process of aging and enjoy better health in our senior years.Happy to 102, by Kathy N. Johnson, PhD, CMC, James Johnson, PhD and Lily Sarafan, MS, details the best kept secrets to a long and happy life. Here are some excerpts from the final chapter which lists 102 ways to live happy to 102: Eat Brain Food. Keep your mind sharp by eating salmon, nuts, olive oil, soy, meat, eggs, dairy, leafy greens, beans, oatmeal and dark skinned fruits.28 Commit to daily fitness. Getting out there and staying active translates into better health and well-being both physically and mentally. Attend cultural events. According to the American Academy of Neurology, cognitively active seniors are almost three times less likely to suffer dementia or develop Alzheimers. Humor your stress. Laughing improves circulation, lowers blood pressure, releases tension and improves your immune system. Think positive. If you cant change the situation, change the way you think about it. Let nature take your stress away. Simply being outdoors with green plants, fresh air and the sounds of nature is a proven stress buster. Give more than you take. It is what you give, not what you take, that gives life meaning.Editors Note: This article was submitted by Jared Caplan, MS. Jared is a General Manager with Home Care Assistance of Dallas and may be reached at 214-363-3400 or jcaplan@homecareassistance.com.

Texas Department of State Health Services,Chief State Epidemiologist, Dr. Jennifer Shuford, MD, explains how the COVID-19 vaccine works.

Hospice care focuses on controlling pain and other symptoms of illness so patients can remain as comfortable as possible near the end of life. Hospice care is highly individualized based on the persons goals for end-of-life care. The hospice team is comprised of doctors, nurses, certified nursing assistants (CNAs), social workers, clergy and volunteers. Expenses may be covered by Medicare, Medicaid or other health insurance plans.There are many misconceptions regarding hospice and hospice care. Some of the most common are:Hospice is a place.Truth: Hospice is not a place, but rather a philosophy of care in which medical, psychological and spiritual support are provided to patients and their families. Hospice care can be provided in a variety of settings, including a persons home, assisted living, nursing homes, hospice in-patient care centers and hospitals.Home hospice always provides a nurse around the clock.Truth: In home hospice, patients receive visits from nurses, certified nursing assistants, chaplains, social workers and volunteers several times per week, but around the clock care in the home setting is not common. Nursing staff is typically on-call 24 hours a day to provide support to patients. Additional resources for care may be needed, such as a non-medical home health care or private duty nursing if the person is in need of 24 hour care at home. 24 hour nursing oversight and care is provided in hospitals, nursing homes and in hospice acute in-patient care centers.If I choose hospice, I am giving up.Truth: Hospice focuses on caring and comforting, not curing. The goal of hospice is neither to hasten nor postpone death. If the persons condition improves, hospice can be discontinued. Choosing hospice does not mean giving up, but rather that the goals of treatment have changed.Many patients and families have chosen hospice care and resources to support them through an end-of-life journey or health crisis. It can be the right option for some patients when the time comes.Editors Note: This article was submitted by Robin Hartman of Liaison-Marketing for Exempla Lutheran Hospice at the Collier Hospice Center. For more information Robin may be reached at 303-425-8000 or by emailHartmanr@sclhs.net

"An Ounce of Prevention is Worth a Pound of Cure." Benjamin FranklinTelehealth is a booming field within healthcare. We can now move the focus of care into the home in a way that is simple yet powerful. Remote patient monitoring systems like the Health Buddy System and the ViTel Net Kiosk from Robert Bosch Healthcare have the potential to improve overall quality of life and satisfaction for seniors by keeping them engaged, informed, and connected. In addition, because a clinician is monitoring their data on a daily basis, problems are caught early and dealt with immediately, thereby lowering the chances of serious complications, and decreasing unnecessary inpatient stays and emergency room visits. There are several key elements to a successful home telehealth program. These include acquiring high quality and reliable equipment that is easy to use; integrating the equipment into standard operating protocols for monitoring and assessment; physician involvement in customizing of health parameters to their patient; identification of problems and outcomes, and development of interventions; and establishing an ongoing relationship with the user that encourages self-management.In fact, telehealth.is not a stand alone system. Instead, it is a package of care that can involve a range of health care activities whose delivery is mediated via a number of different innovative information technologies. Even now, new technologies such as motion sensors are being integrated into these systems to continuously improve telehealth with the goal of greater freedom and independence for all seniors. A quality integrated telehealth program is intended for seniors who want to live independently but value the freedom and peace of mind they can receive through telehealth. By partnering with a sophisticated 24/7 call center, trained specialists can monitor data, triage changes to a RN, and create a personal relationship with the senior beyond the emergency. Having access to a nurse when questions occur, creation of a trending report for the senior, their physician, and their loved ones, and decreasing health care costs by accessing care earlier are outcomes all those involved with the senior will also appreciate. By helping Seniors feel more secure knowing their health problems may be caught early before they become major problems, telehealth is bringing an old adage to life: an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.Yvonne Myers Health Systems Coordinator 970-488-3777Columbine Health Systems

Nothing is harder than to take a loved one who is aging and whose capacities are diminishing and to help them make the tough decisions that will ensure their safety. How do you balance your parents need for independence and your need that they and others around them are secure? Below is a list of four steps that will show you how to communicate with your aging parents and to better show them how much you C.A.R.E..Choose The Spirit of Working With Them, Not Against ThemRemember when it comes to creating healthy results with others, your best tool is the spirit you choose to approach the other person with. Whether you bring a spirit of competition or cooperation is the best determinant of the options, choices, and ability you will have to resolve the problems you're facing. Remember that before you try to convince your parents of what is best for them, you must first convince them that you really understand them and the problems they're facing. Make sure that you don't allow the problem, whether it is bringing in extra help around the house, moving them into senior living or restricting driving privileges to become something that comes between you two. Love them unconditionally and show them that you will be there for support no matter what. The simple spirit that you care will go a long way to creating the change that is necessary. Attend to the Emotional Needs First, and the Logical Needs SecondI know that the idea of waiting to deal with the logical issues until after the emotional issues sounds crazy . . . because sometimes the decisions we are making with our aging parents could be about life and death, right? In the end however, I've found that the fastest way to get to healthier solutions with your parents will usually be with them, instead of against them. So you're going to have to go through their emotion anyway. Remember that you cant meet a need you don't understand from their frame of reference. So if you cant find a way to show you care about their emotion, you'll never get access to change their way of thinking about the issue. The rule for this section is simply: I don't care how much you know, until I know how much you care. The more urgent the situation, then, the more necessary it is to get very active in addressing the highly emotional feelings that lie deep down inside the person. In the end its important to realize that you are not going to solve the logical problems of your parents lives without effectively validating and handling the emotional issues first. No matter how logical the issues are, people are still emotional beings.Relax & Recognize that Slower, Usually is FasterSometimes it takes each of us time to be willing to let the obvious changes in our lives to take place. Have you ever needed to get your tooth fixed, and still delayed a while just to avoid the obvious procedure and its accompanying pain? Inherently people want to do things on their terms, their way and on their timeframe. That human need echoes back to the deep inner sense that we are actors in our lives who are to act, and not be acted upon. The problem arises when our parents mental or physical abilities start to diminish and their actions have the potential to either harm others or themselves. This pressure to protect our parents and others drives us to feel even more and more compelled to act quickly and decisively. Most of these difficult decisions are very hard to do quickly so start anticipating the changes your parents will need over the next year or two and begin laying the ground work for those changes. Try to create buy-in, not by talking about what we are going to change today with your parents, but by discussing what will need to take place down the road. This slower approach may allow the ideas of change to drip slowly into their system and will feel more like its in their control.Explore Outside Experts to Communicate For You.Who you are speaks so loudly, people cant hear what you're saying. That little quote perfectly summarizes the reality that many times you are not the best person to tell your parents anything. Many times you are not the best person to communicate the cold hard truths about your parents need for help simply because in their eyes you are still just a child. Perhaps it would be better to have you be the supportive hand that is sitting next to your parent as their doctor, the police department or Drivers License division takes their license away. As a professional, I have seen on countless occasions where people are more inclined to believe what I have to say than the person closest to them. Sometimes it is my credentials, my approach or the fact that they are paying to hear it that makes it all more legitimate. Don't be afraid to call in other experts. Talk to their doctors, or other experts to get advice and support in how to proceed, and whenever possible, let the professionals deliver the news and you just sit there and love and support them through it.Editors Note: This article was submitted by Matt Townsend, M.A. founder of Townsend Relationship Center, a communication skill building company, www.townsendrelationshipcenter.com or call at 801-747-2121

Many of us were familiar with day care when our kids were pre-school age, and we needed the kids to be cared for while we were at work. Well, what about having mom or dad living with us when they shouldnt be left alone at home all day. Not only would it be boring, but it may be medically unadvisable. We have choices of in-home care such as a Home Care and Personal Assistance agency or away-from-home care in an Adult Day Care (ADC) facilityThe available level of care varies among agencies and ADC facilities, so be sure your loved ones needs will be met when selecting care. In-home care with a caregiver affords certain comforts of home that may be beneficial, yet an ADC offers interaction with other seniors and activities not available at home. Both have advantages; we have had families tell us that they use both options, with in-home care on the first two days of the work week, and ADC the other three days. Whichever you choose, be sure its providing an enriching, satisfying experience for your loved one.

Every year thousands of seniors utilize physical therapy to get back on their feet. Reasons may include: recovering from a joint replacement, chronic or acute pain in any part of the body, stroke, balance and falls, recovering from an extended illness, and declining strength and function. The primary goal of physical therapy is to help alleviate pain and restore function and return independence. Most people are aware that you can receive physical therapy in your home through a home health agency when you are required to be homebound. Many people may not know there is another option to receive the therapy they need. Those who may not qualify for home health services or are no longer technically homebound can receive the therapy they need in the comfort of their own home. Much like an old fashioned doctors house call you can receive physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy in your home that is paid for by most insurances including Medicare part B, Medicare HMO , and secondary insurance benefits.Editors Note: This article was submitted by Jim Harrison, DPT. Jim is a Physical Therapist with South Mountain Home Rehabilitation. He can be reached at 801-523-6376 or jim@smhrehab.com . Visit his website www.smhrehab.com.

Knowing when and if its time for a loved one to move to a personal care home or assisted living is not easy. Ideally most people want to age in place for as long as possible. However, if ones independence and well-being start to decline and the practicality, safety, and the benefits of aging in place also falter, a change may be needed. Some older adults recognize and may even welcome this need for change. But more often families struggle with the timing of a move, which is compounded with feelings of guilt and uncertainty, and sometimes sheer resistance from their loved one about moving.So how do you know when its time for a change? Below are some key indicators that can help you determine if a move may be necessary:Caregiving is significantly interfering with work, relationships and other responsibilities.Healthcare professionals recommend a change.The loved one asks for a change.Despite your best efforts, things worsen (increased falls, illness and/or hospitalizations).The loved one is in danger of harming themselves or others, especially those with dementia.The caregivers physical and mental health and wellness are worsening.The caregiver is depleted, becoming angry, neglectful, resentful, frustrated.The caregivers coping methods become destructive (i.e. substance abuse).Furthermore, youre not alone in determining whether your loved one needs care. A medical evaluation and written order from their physician is required. Plus the residence will assess your loved to determine the right level of care.Other ConsiderationsAging in place can have its limitations. In some cases, it can lead to caregiver burnout and can be overwhelming and unsafe if not well planned. Isolation, boredom and inactivity can also be problematic, especially if the person has stopped driving, has limited mobility and/or their health is on the decline.Making this choice is not just about the need for care. Personal Care not only provides hands-on care and peace of mind, but it can also foster an improved and more active lifestyle. Socialization and peer activity strengthen the mind, body and soul with a wide range of activities, clubs, events and amenities.Appreciating the value of proactively moving to personal care or assisted living can be comforting and well-paced. It lends itself to a more positive transition, rather than a power struggle compounded by critical need and hurried placement.________________________Editors Note: This article was submitted by Matthew Gallardo, Director of Community Engagement and Coaching at Messiah Lifeways.

Every day I hear information that has been shared that is not completely accurate. Often times, I am talking to people about their planning goals and they are letting these pieces of information keep them from understanding how it applies to them. Here are three quick items to provide you a better understanding so you can choose how they specifically impact you and your own planning:Social Security is going broke is often the headline we see. According to the Trustees Report released on April 25, 2019, it is estimated that the two trust funds would run out of money by 2035. That is absolutely true, however when the funds are depleted and if Congress does nothing, they will use taxes currently being collected to pay those obligations. Benefits may need to be reduced from current estimations IF Congress does nothing.If I work, I will not get my Social Security. This is not entirely true. If you decide to collect social security before your FULL retirement age, for those born between 1943 and 1954, the age is 66, your benefit is reduced by $1.00 for each $2.00 you earn above the earnings limit. After full retirement age, the amount you earn does not impact your benefit.Medicare or Medicaid will cover Long Term Care. This is one of the biggest misconceptions I hear. Medicare provides for skilled care in a nursing home ONLY while you are recuperating following a hospital stay for a related conditions and only for 100 days. Please note that Medicare does not cover long-term care or custodial care. Medicaid is for people with very low assets and limited income.As Joe Friday used to say, Just the facts maam. Demand that all the information needed to make a decision for YOUR situation is provided.Editors Note: This article was submitted by Anthony Cisneros, CRPC CRPS.This article is meant to be general in nature and should not be construed as financial, legal or tax advice related to your personal situation. Anthony Cisneros is a Financial Advisor with Waddell & Reed, Inc., and may be reached at 970-416-6082 or by email at acisneros@wradvisors.com

For more information on the author Paul Andrews, CLICK HERE!If spending more time at home over the past year is making you really think hard aboutbuyinga home instead of renting one, youre not alone. You may be wondering, however, if the dollars and cents add up in your favor as home prices continue torise. According to the experts, in many cases,its still more affordable to buy a home than rent one. Heres why.ATTOM Data Solutionsrecently released the2021 Rental Affordability Report, which states:Owninga median-priced three-bedroom homeis more affordable than rentinga three-bedroom property in 572, or63 percent of the 915 U.S. counties analyzed for the report.That has happened even though median home prices have increased more than average rents over the past year in 83 percent of those counties and have risen more than wages in almost two-thirds of the nation.How is this possible?The answer: historically low mortgage interestrates. Todd Teta,Chief Product OfficerwithATTOM Data Solutions, explains:Home-prices are rising faster than rents and wages in a majority of the country. Yet,home ownership is still more affordable, as amazinglylow mortgage ratesthat dropped below 3 percentare helping to keep the cost of rising home prices in check.In 2020, mortgage rates reached all-time lows16 times, and so far, theyre continuing to hover in low territory thisyear. These low rates are a big factor in driving affordability. Teta also notes:Its startling to see that kind of trend. Butit shows how both the cost of renting has been relatively high compared to the cost of ownership and how declining interest rates are having a notable impact on the housing market and home ownership.The coming year is totally uncertain, amid so many questions connected to the Coronavirus pandemic and the broader economy. But right now, owning a home still appears to be a financially-sound choice for those who can afford it.Bottom LineIf youre considering buying a home this year, lets connect today to discuss the options that match your budget while affordability is in your favor.

There are more than 3.4 million unpaid family caregivers in Texas. It is with pride that we extend our thanks to each one of them. Family caregivers are the meal givers, the medicine givers, and the compassion givers. They help their loved ones bathe and dress, prepare meals, drive to medical appointments, assist with finances and much more. Some perform complex medical tasks like giving injections, managing complicated medications or cleaning wounds often with little or no training. Many provide this 24/7 care while working full-time without a break.Caregivers often sacrifice their time, money, and even well being to ensure that their family member is given the ability to live comfortably in their home and out of costly institutions. But in the process, caregivers can sometimes lose sight of the importance of taking care of their own needs and are often taken for granted, despite the high value of care they maintain.The cost of care unpaid family caregivers provide in Texas alone is estimated to be $35 billion a year; and its $470 billion worth of care provided nationally. That amount is more than the annual sales ($469 billion) of the four largest U.S. tech companies combined (Apple, Hewlett Packard, IBM, and Microsoft).Family caregivers arent recognized nearly enough; they not only deserve our thanks, but they deserve our support. Caregiving is a labor of love, but its also often an incredibly time-intensive one. We extend our deep gratitude for the many things that they do.Editors Note: This article was submitted by AARP State Director Bob Jackson.

1. What is hypnosis?Hypnosis is a state of heightened focus and concentration where your subconscious mind is more susceptible to suggestions. When youre in a hypnotic state, youre more open to new ideas, suggestions, and possibilities.2. How does hypnosis work? Hypnosis is a deeply powerful tool that can get you to focus more efficiently, focus on issues that are more intently impacting your life, and find creative solutions. The brain rules over your body and through the process of learning, there are automatic transitions within the brain. These automatons process stimuli and input at a very fast rate, so that we can process information and make quick decisions.One of the brains most important automatons is the amygdala. This is the seat of emotional memory. Within the amygdala is the hippocampus, which is responsible for forming new memories.Hippocampus is responsible for the consolidation and storage of recent experiences and is the structure that contains the vast majority of the hippocampus. It integrates the information from all other memory components and makes presentable and dynamic memories. Richard Norris, The Hippocampus: Memory AccomplisherThere is an orgasmic aspect to hypnosis that you will experience every time you go under the influence of hypnosis. This unique state allows you to have a body massager to stroke and massage areas of your body that are currently causing stress.2. How does hypnosis work for pain relief?The way it works is that it helps to switch off the part of your brain thats responsible for paying attention to your body, and it helps to switch on the part of your brain thats responsible for paying attention to things that are happening outside of your body.3. How can hypnosis help with chronic pain?Hypnosis can help with chronic pain, and the first thing to understand is that hypnosis isnt sleep. Hypnosis is a deep state of relaxation and its not about the absence of thought but the presence of a focused, directed thought. Hypnosis is a state of focused attention and self-control while youre awake.Sleep, on the other hand, is a deep state of relaxation. It is a focus on falling asleep and waking up in the prescribed way. This state of deep relaxation is accompanied by low muscle tone in the body and frequent dreaming. The specific pattern of brain activity that accompanies sleep is different from the relaxation pattern accompanying hypnosis. In order to understand hypnosis, first you must understand the state of the brain because the link between the two is what causes hypnosis to work and why its better than sleep.Attention is the most basic state of being for your brain. It is good at doing two things staying still and focusing your attention. Dreaming is another state of being a quick sleep with lots of interesting dreams. Hypnosis is a deeper level of attention and self-control than sleep.A fascinating study from 2001 showed that American adults were more likely to believe in the paranormal when subjects were hypnosis than when subjects were awake. Similarly, a study by Sleep Research Institute, a division of Stanford University, showed that hypnotized people performed better on two types of programming tasks. While those who were hypnotized were more likely to do what the hypnotized were told versus the hypnotizer.Its very common for hypnotherapists to experience the common side effects of sleep because they are using the state of arousal to affect a deeper state of focus and awareness. Hypnosis takes practice to become proficient at and it takes a lot of focus and conscious effort.Hypnosis is filled with recovered memory techniques used under the guise of being healing or curing.4. How can you learn self-hypnosis?There are a lot of techniques available to learn self-hypnosis. One of the most popular is the Milton Method. It involves listening to a recording that guides you through a self-hypnosis session.Soaking in warm or cold water for a few minutes can calm your mind. Tapping gently on your wrist for a few moments helps you process how your mind works and relaxes your muscles. Light light can also help your visualisation process. If you dont like any of these methods, you can use your imagination. Any audio you find can be used as a Hypnotherapist would use. Whatever method you choose, you will have fun with it. Ill let you decide how much fun youd have with hypnosis.5. What are some other ways to relieve pain naturally?Some natural pain relievers include:1. Cold packs2. Heat packs3. Massage4. Acupressure5. Acupuncture6. Yoga7. Meditation8. Yoga9. Chiropractic10. Acupuncture11. Taking breaks throughout the day12.Yes, yoga 13. Energy balls14. Hot packs15. Light therapy

To learn more aboutGood Shepherd Home Care & Hospice,CLICK HERE.The month of September brings a welcome relief from the hot summer days. Cool breezes and colorful foliage appearing on the trees entice one to walk and bask in healthy fresh air.September has also been designated as Healthy Aging Month with encouragement to seniors to renew their attitudes towards better eating, exercise, and mental stability. With the nation's senior population growing there is more focus on programs to help seniors remain healthy and active as they age physically, mentally and emotionally.WebMD's online magazine's featurearticlebyMatt McMillenfocuses on the "September National Theme" with tips to stay at your peak!"1.Get movingExercise regularly to maintain a healthy body and brain.2.Stay socialTake a class, volunteer, play games, see old friends, and make new ones.3.Bulk upEat beans and other high-fiber foods for digestive and heart health.4.Add some spiceAdd herbs and spices to your meals if medications dull your taste buds.5.Stay balancedPractice yoga or tai chi to improve agility and prevent falls.6.Take a hikeBrisk daily walks this September can bolster both your heart and lungs.7.Sleep wellTalk to a sleep specialist if you dont sleep soundly through the night.8.Beat the bluesIf youve been down for a while, see a doctor. Depression can be treated.9.Dont forgetTo aid your memory, make lists, follow routines, slow down, and organizeOpportunities for seniors to use their work experience and talents in volunteer work benefit not only them but their communities as well. Many seniors take educational courses to improve their minds and seek out opportunities to use this newfound knowledge in productive ways. In another direction, senior sport programs have been developed that encourage those who miss their days on the basketball court or playing other sports to take it up again. The National Senior Games Associations sponsors a competitive Senior Olympics.There is no limit to what a healthy attitude can accomplish.

What a year 2020 was for all of us and especially for those who were living in senior living. When everything shut down in March 2020, senior living had to pivot and activate their emergency plans to keep their residents safe. All the Front Range and throughout Colorado, senior living communities did an amazing job keeping their residents safe. According to AARP covid deaths in the southwest were substantially lower compared to the rest of the country. Covid restrictions, population in communities and local leadership contributed to these lower numbers.An astounding 93% of residents and staff have been vaccinated in senior living communities. In-person visits are happening again and communities are safer than ever. If you or a loved one needs to move to a senior living community, the best way to do this is to work with local GDPRA agents who are ethical and knowledgeable.Do you wish you had someone with experience walking beside you through this journey? Someone that can narrow down your search and offer insight that is relevant to your situation?The Greater Denver Placement and Referral Alliance (GDPRA) was created in 2018 to educate the public about Professional Placement Agents. Even though placement agents have been around for over 15 years, many families do not know this service exists. Placement and Referral agents specialize in helping families find appropriate senior living options. GDPRA agents provide hands-on assistance for your unique situation. The agent members adhere to Best Practices and a code of ethics. Working with a GDPRA agent offers peace of mind.You may worry that using an expert will be expensive. The good news is that a placement agent is typically compensated by selected communities. Therefore, placement agents do not generally charge a fee.What to look for in a local professional placement agent?An agent who meets with you and/or your loved one in-personAssesses your care needs, budget, location, and social needsVets the quality of care for communitiesWalks beside you through the entire processThe benefits of using a local placement agent:Determines what are your best optionsAlleviates the stress of making dozens of phone calls to communities that dont fit your needsSaves you time by touring with you and helping ask the right questionsActs as a neutral party during the decision makingHelps with a smoother transition by connecting you with local resourcesIf you start your search online, what you may find:An online agent, who may or may not be local, will contact youYou will be contacted by a dozen communities who may or may not be a good fit financially or meet your care needsOnline referral agent may not have vetted or visited communitiesYou are required to do the leg work without a neutral partyYour contact information may be soldWe understand that organizing the search for senior living can take a considerable amount of time and research. Local agents are available to save you time and relieve the pressure.If you would like to work with a local GDPRA Placement Agent, please contact denver@npralliance.org or GDPRA at 720-390-1383

Understanding Medicare today and the potential changes to Medicare in the future make selecting the right Medicare health insurance coverage more challenging than ever before. There is a large and confusing selection of choices, including: Original Medicare, Medicare Advantage, Medigap, Pensions, Tri-Care, Prescription Drug Plans (PDP), Cost Plans, PACE, Special Needs Plans, etc. This is why finding truly knowledgeable, unbiased advice is critically important to you.Selecting the wrong insurance can lead to MAJOR PROBLEMS down the road. Some of these problems are: difficulties getting authorization for services and treatments, network issues with hospitals and doctors, geographic limitations on services, very large co-payments for hospitalizations, cancer treatments (chemo & radiation), chronic illnesses etc. Also, prescription drug costs are skyrocketing. So selecting the right prescription drug coverage is more important now than ever before (with over 40 options, this can be a daunting taste if you don't have the right kind of help).The right medicare advisor can help you avoid these common problems, but finding the right advisor isnt always easy. In short, you want an advisor that has the knowledge, skills, ethics and desire to help you find the best solution for your unique situation. Here are the traits you should look for in an advisor to ensure that you receive knowledgeable and unbiased advice; 1) Make sure your advisor specializes in Medicare. Just because your agent may know a lot about auto or life insurance, doesn't mean they know about Medicare. 2) Make sure your advisor is independent, not tied to just one or two insurance carriers. Your advisor should be working for you, not the sales manager at the insurance company. This isn't a one size fits all type of insurance, and mistakes or bad advice can be very costly. 3) Make sure your advisor can offer multiple types of policies from multiple carriers. 4) Make sure your advisor does regular reviews of your coverage as your needs will change over time. Annual reviews should be expected. 5) Is there an advisory fee? The short answer should always be no.Use these criteria to help ensure you get the best Medicare has to offer, rather than letting Medicare get the best of you.Editors Note: This article was submitted by Bill Gundelfinger-Mr. Medicare of Senior Benefit Advisors, Medicare Experts. Helping Medicare Beneficiaries get the most out of their health insurance. He can be reached at 720-675-8032 or 800-376-5450.

All too often veterans are told they do not qualify for VA Aid and Attendance.The truth is you may be eligible for benefits to help pay for needed extended care if you meet The 3 Ms of eligibility. These are: Military, Medical and Money.Military service. A veteran or a surviving spouse of a veteran must have 90 days of active duty, with one day during a period of war, and have been discharged with an other than dishonorable discharge. The periods of war include World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War and the Gulf War. Gulf war veterans must have two years of active duty to qualify.Medical need. A claimant must have the need of assistance of another individual with at least two activities of daily living. These are bathing, dressing, ambulating, toileting and eating. Legally blind or cognitively impaired also creates a medical need. An example of this would be someone with dementia may simply need daily reminders to eat and bathe, this would qualify.Money. The VA looks at both income and assets. In order to qualify for the full benefit your income must be less than your cost of care. Here is an example, take someone with an income of $3,000 per month and their cost of care in an assisted living community is $4,500 per month, they would have $1,500 negative per month. They would qualify for the full monthly benefit of $2,120 for a married veteran, $1,788 for a single veteran, and $1,149 for a surviving spouse. The amount of assets they can have is not as straightforward and is somewhatDo you Qualify for VA Aid and Attendance?All too often veterans are told they do not qualify for VA Aid and Attendance.The truth is you may be eligible for benefits to help pay for needed extended care if you meet The 3 Ms of eligibility. These are: Military, Medical and Money.Military service. A veteran or a surviving spouse of a veteran must have 90 days of active duty, with one day during a period of war, and have been discharged with an other than dishonorable discharge. The periods of war include World War II, the Korean War, the Vietnam War and the Gulf War. Gulf war veterans must have two years of active duty to qualify.Medical need. A claimant must have the need of assistance of another individual with at least two activities of daily living. These are bathing, dressing, ambulating, toileting and eating. Legally blind or cognitively impaired also creates a medical need. An example of this would be someone with dementia may simply need daily reminders to eat and bathe, this would qualify.Money. The VA looks at both income and assets. In order to qualify for the full benefit your income must be less than your cost of care. Here is an example, take someone with an income of $3,000 per month and their cost of care in an assisted living community is $4,500 per month, they would have $1,500 negative per month. They would qualify for the full monthly benefit of $2,120 for a married veteran, $1,788 for a single veteran, and $1,149 for a surviving spouse. The amount of assets they can have is not as straightforward and is somewhat subjective process. We have had claims approved with over $80,000 in total assets and others denied for less than $30,000 in total assets. So, how do you know what the correct amount is? The best advice is to consult with an accredited agent or attorney who understands the rules. A competent advisor can help you qualify even if your net worth is excessive.

AAA's were established under the Older Americans Act (OAA) in 1973 to respond to the needs of Americans 60 and over in every local community. By providing a range of options that allow older adults to choose the home and community-based services and living arrangements that suit them best, AAAs make it possible for older adults to remain in their homes and communities as long as possible.#listing_mgr{7 basic_search}#

The Colorado law now has mandatory reporting requirements so that at-risk elders are afforded more protection. (C.R.S. 18-6.5-108) On July 1, 2014, mandatory reporting of abuse or exploitation of at-risk elders began. An at-risk elder is any person who is age 70 or older. Abuse includes all forms of abuse, neglect, self-neglect. Exploitation occurs when a person uses deception, harassment, intimidation, or undue influence to permanently or temporarily deprive an elder of the use, benefit or possession of their money, assets, property, or any other thing of value. The law provides that when certain persons observe abuse or exploitation or if they have reasonable cause to believe that the elder has been abused or exploited, or even if they believe there is an imminent risk of abuse or exploitation, that person is required to make a report to a law enforcement agency within 24 hours of the observation or discovery. There are penalties for those persons that fail to report.The list of mandatory reporters includes: medical and mental health professional, social workers, dentists, chiropractors, law enforcement officials, guardians, conservators, clergy (with some exceptions), caretakers, home health providers, professionals associated with care facilities, personnel at banks or financial institutions, fire protection personnel, pharmacists, and many others. These professionals, whether paid or unpaid, must report the abuse or exploitation to law enforcement or risk being charged with a misdemeanor. Reporting is not required if the person knows that another person has already reported the abuse or exploitation. Law enforcement must notify the county department and the district attorneys office within 24 hours of the report and shall complete a criminal investigation when appropriate. Immunity from suit and liability for damages is given to the person making the good faith report, except that no immunity is given to the alleged perpetrator. At-risk elders now have more protection because many people are required to make a report to law enforcement. The days of looking the other way, minding your own business or assuming that someone else is reporting the abuse or exploitation are now gone. A mandatory reporter that observes or has reasonable cause to believe that an elder has been abused or exploited is required make a report within 24 hours.Editors Note: Jennifer S. Gormley is an attorney that focuses her practice on elder law, probate, trusts and estates, disability law, long term care planning and litigation. To contact Jennifer Gormley, please call 303-783-9600 or email info@elderlawsource.com.

According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) DEPRESSION affects more than 6.5 million of the 35 million Americans aged 65 or older.Getting older can be joyful and peaceful. However, there are times when serious medical issues occur. Often, one may notice they start getting forgetful and find themselves limited in activities they could do before. As an example post stroke depression is common. As we grow older we may experience illness or loss. All of these things contribute to worsening sadness and depression.If left untreated, the depression may become severe and result in isolation. Sometimes, we may feel anxious and unwilling to take our prescribed medications. As the depression worsens it leads to feeling hopeless and may lead to having suicidal thoughts.So it becomes important for seniors to be evaluated and treated for depression. Your primary care physician is a good start. If you live in an independent or assisted living facility or in your own home you can request an evaluation.At Palm Point Behavioral Health Hospital we have developed the Mature Adult Program. This program is designed specifically for individuals over 65 years of age during a time they may be experiencing a mental health issue. The program is under the leadership of Dr. Vineet Mehta, a Board Certified Psychiatrist with over 30 years of experience. He and his team provide a healing environment to recover from depressive disorders. We use many modalities including group psychotherapy, medications and family meetings to effectively treat depression and other mental health disorders.We accept most major insurances, including Medicare, Tricare, private insurance, self-pay, Medicaid managed care. Our counselors will help you negotiate the insurance process. Upon discharge, they will also help connect you to services in the community so you can resume a happy, healthy life after treatment has been completed.Conveniently located off Rt. 1 in Titusville, we are just a short drive from Orlando.Please call us. We are here to help 24 hours a day.

Financial assistance companies specialize in assisting seniors facing financial problems or in need of financial assistance.#listing_mgr{7 basic_search}#

Moving a loved one into residential care is a big life change. Here are three tips to help make the transition easier for everyone involved.Communication. Ask how they will keep you updated on your loved ones care. One of the hardest things about this time is not knowing how your loved one is doing. Questions like whether the doctor rounded, or if mom got her haircut. A general Facebook group may give you the generic story, but ask for regular, specific communication about your loved one.Expectations. Ask the community to spell out specifically what they do and what they do not do. Not all residential care provides insulin shots or physical therapy, for example.Relationships. Youre hiring a team to help care for your loved one. Ask them what you can do to help build relationships with the care team. As family, think of yourself as the CEO of the care team.Editors Note: Article submitted by Katherine Wells, CEO, Serenity Engage. She may be reached at 720-515-8839 or by email at katherine@serenityengage.com

Death is an inevitable part of life. We must all die. But how we die matters.Some believe in an afterlife, some believe in reincarnation and many believe that when we die that is the end. Whatever your belief, dying does not mean suffering. Hospice is not a place, it is an idea that dying from something other than an accident or sudden death should be peaceful no matter where you live or what the cause.The word hospice comes from the Latin root hospitium, which referred to a place where guests were received with hospitality and lodging. These concepts are associated with several modern words, including hospice, hostel, hotel, and hospital.In 1905, the Irish Sisters of Charity founded St. Josephs Hospice in the East End of London, where the modern hospice movement began with the work of Dr. Cicely Saunders who is credited with developing the art and science of modern hospice care according to the following principles: Patients, family members, and healthcare professionals are more than collections of cells, bones, and blood; each is unique and has important physical, emotional, social, and spiritual needs. Each persons beliefs, values, and concerns should be respected regardless of nationality, race, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, or financial status. People who are suffering usually need help from caring, skilled professionals to articulate their needs, values, concerns, and fears. Much like a woman who during child birth needs help. People who are suffering benefit from skilled inter-disciplinary interventions that alleviate physical, emotional, spiritual, and social pain.Hospice programs focus on improving quality of life and helping patients and families throughout the course of their illness to live life to the fullest until death occurs. For those at the end of life, the ultimate goal of hospice is to alleviate pain and suffering as patients make the transition from life to death.Hospice is a Medicare covered benefit and is also covered by many other insurance companies. The only criterion is that 2 physicians (one must be the hospice physician) certify that the patient has less than a 6-month prognosis if the disease continues on its expected course without aggressive treatments. When it comes time to choose a hospice one can usually be recommended by your physician and you can compare quality indicators of hospices on the Medicare.gov website.Editors Note: This article was submitted by Sade Bello. Sade is the Administrator of Oasis Hospice & Palliative Care, Inc. and may be reached at 773-941-4838 or by email at sade@oasishospice.us.

Back pain is a common problem that affects at least 75 to 85 percent of Americans at some point in their lifetime. The causes of back pain vary, but are most often due to muscle strains, accidents, or injuries; other causes are related to lifestyle factors. If you are suffering from chronic back pain, these helpful tips may provide some relief.Get a good nights sleep.Did you know a lack of quality sleep can worsen back pain? To help keep your back in alignment, invest in a comfortably firm mattress. You may also want to try different sleeping positions, such as lying on your side or placing a pillow under or between your knees.Exercise regularly.When suffering from back pain, exercise has been found to effectively reduce or alleviate symptoms. In addition, strengthening your back muscles helps support your spine. Get moving with slow, gentle exercises - such as swimming, walking, or yoga - and increase your pace or intensity if possible.Maintain a healthy weight.One of the best ways to avoid back pain is to keep off those extra pounds and maintain a healthy weight. In addition to regular exercise, eat a healthy diet full of fruits and vegetables, and low on sugar and processed foods.Stretch to improve flexibility.Regular stretching - such as before bed, exercising, playing sports, or heaving lifting - is key to staying flexible and avoiding back pain. Simple stretches, such as bending side to side or bending forward, can improve blood circulation to the back muscles and reduce injury.Practice good posture.Poor posture, especially if you sit for long periods of time, can cause back pain or make it worse. Avoid slouching or slumping over your keyboard. Instead, remind yourself to sit up straight and keep your shoulders relaxed. If you dont have an ergonomic chair for the office, try putting a pillow behind your lower back for extra support.Apply heat or cold.If you suffer from muscle spasms, cramps, or back strain, heat therapy (such as with a heating pad) can help provide some relief. Additionally, regular applications of cold therapy (using ice packs) can help reduce swelling and inflammation. Try either therapy several times a day for about 20 minutes.In the majority of cases, back pain gets better with non-surgical methods. However, back pain can be a symptom of other underlying issues that may require medication, physical therapy, or even surgery.If you suffer from persistent back pain, Coastal Orthopedics is here to help. Our orthopedic specialists are committed to developing the right treatment options best suited for each patient so that they can get back to living life.Written & Submitted By: Coastal Orthopedics- Click here for more information*

Monitoring Solutions of SWFL provides GPS monitoring to the memory impaired, and those with other medical conditions. Services are available throughout the State of Florida, utilizing the S-911 bracelet - the most comprehensive tool available for caregivers and family members.The S-911 is a watch-style bracelet which tracks location via satellite and cell phone signal. The S-911 software also has geo-fencing capability. This means the caregiver is able to create both inclusion and exclusion zones for the person wearing the device. If the wearer needs to stay within a certain area, the instant the boundary is crossed a text message is sent. Conversely, if there is a danger area such as a lake, a text will be sent when the wearer gets too close.The S-911 is the only bracelet on the market featuring a built in cell phone. This is excellent for those in the early stages of memory impairment who find themselves lost, or when a fall occurs. The wearer presses the panic button & the bracelet will call for assistance right from their wrist. The S-911 also has an impact detector so that if the wearer falls, or is in an auto accident and is incapable of pressing the panic button, an alert is still sent & their caregiver will be instantly notified. We offer a solution to anyone who has an illness where precious seconds can determine whether someone receives the help they need quickly enough to save their lives, reports Zodia King, President of the company.The S-911 bracelet is available for purchase or can be leased. There is a monthly service fee for access to the tracking website and data transmission. Monitoring Solutions also offers monitoring service for families whose loved ones are local but live out of state.The highest level of service offered, which includes lease, website/voice and monitoring service is still less than $5/day making it a very affordable solution for many applications.At Monitoring Solutions our mission is to assist families and caregivers by providing a dignified method of constant contact which enables prolonged independence at a low cost.Editor's Note: This article was submitted by Monitoring Solutions of SWFL. For more information contact them at 239-738-6857

As we navigate the financial landscape in our golden years, it's essential to stay informed about potential opportunities that can positively impact our families' future. One such option that has gained popularity among seniors is the concept of "living inheritance" through reverse mortgages. Here we provide insight into this practice, empowering you to make informed decisions for your family's financial well-being.*Building Home Wealth and Equity*Over the years, many of us have witnessed the value of our homes grow, accumulating home wealth and equity. This is often an unexpected but valuable outcome of homeownership. Now, you may be wondering how this equity can be utilized to benefit your family.*Supporting the Next Generation*As caring grandparents and parents, we want the best for our children and grandchildren. However, we also understand the challenges they face in today's housing market. Rising home prices and increasing down payment requirements have made it difficult for younger generations to enter the real estate market.*The Role of Reverse Mortgages*Enter reverse mortgages, a financial tool that allows seniors to access a portion of their home equity while still residing in their homes. With a reverse mortgage, you can receive funds in the form of a loan, a line of credit, or a lump sum, and the best part is, you won't need to make monthly mortgage payments.*Unlocking "Living Inheritance"*The concept of "living inheritance" involves using a reverse mortgage to tap into your home's equity and gift it to your children or grandchildren to assist with a down payment for their own homes. By providing this support, you can empower the younger generation to achieve homeownership and build a more secure financial future.*Benefits of "Living Inheritance"*1. **Immediate Impact**: Unlike traditional inheritance, "living inheritance" allows you to see your loved ones benefit from your support while you're still alive.2. **Financial Independence**: Assisting your family in homeownership can help them achieve greater financial stability and independence.3. **Legacy of Love**: By providing practical support, you leave a lasting legacy of love and support for generations to come.*Important Considerations*Before considering a reverse mortgage, it's crucial to gather comprehensive information and consult with a qualified financial advisor. Reverse mortgages come with specific eligibility requirements and terms, and understanding them thoroughly will enable you to make an informed decision that aligns with your unique situation."Living inheritance" through reverse mortgages offers an opportunity to positively impact your family's future. By exploring this option and understanding the financial implications, you can make a well-informed choice that aligns with your values and goals. Remember to seek guidance from trusted financial advisors to ensure you embark on the right path for your family's financial security.

The coronavirus pandemic is making everyday life challenging for all of us, but thats especially true if youre caring for someone with dementia due to Alzheimers disease or another cause. You may be providing care in your home without the community supports that youre used to, or maybe youre trying to help while being physically separated due to the social distancing required to stop the spread of the disease.The anxiety you may be feeling about providing dementia care is likely compounded by the reports that most of the deaths from COVID-19 are in people older than 60, especially the frail and those with chronic conditions such as diabetes or cardiovascular disease. The increased risk of COVID-19 in older adults may in part be due to the fact that as we age, our immune system is less able to fight off infection. The risk seems particularly high in individuals with cognitive impairment and dementia.In addition, cognitive and memory impairment can put a person at higher risk for complications from the isolation and social distancing needed to control COVID-19. Here are some tips for helping someone with dementia or Alzheimers disease during the COVID-19 pandemic:Provide information:Older adults, particularly those with cognitive and memory impairments, often have low awareness and limited access to accurate information and facts about the COVID-19 pandemic. This can result in either excessive worries or in a lack of appropriate concern. As a family member or caregiver, its important to provide clear, concise information and to repeat it often to ensure understanding.Help with personal hygiene and social distancing:Cognitive impairment makes self-protection challenging. Therefore, the risk of infection is higher in a person with dementia, who may not fully understand the risk of disease or may forget to be as careful as necessary. For example, regular hand washing is hard to remember, even for people with good memory. If infected, a person with cognitive limitations can unknowingly spread the disease. Putting in place a strict structure with reminders and oversight can help to minimize the risk to the person with dementia and to others in the household.Recognize illness: Poor memory and limited self-awareness also pose risks because the person may not recognize the presence of a cough or might even forget to mention an episode of vomiting to a caregiver. A checklist of questions and perhaps even assessing the breathing and measuring the temperature daily can become a helpful routine.Reduce stress:During these challenging times, caring for someone with cognitive impairment causes a substantial increase in stress for caregivers and family members. Its important for you to consider your own well-being and get appropriate support. The risks to a person with dementia are substantially increased if their caregiver is stressed or depressed.If you need help caring for a parent or loved one with dementia due to Alzheimers disease or any other illness or if youre seeing signs of dementia and dont know where to turn next TheDeanna and Sidney Wolk Center for Memory Health at Hebrew SeniorLifeis open for telehealth, video, and telephone services. We can provide consultations to assess cognitive function and address behavioral changes, recommend personalized interventions, provide individual counseling and dementia caregiver support groups, and connect you to additional resources. Services are covered by Medicare and most insurances.Contact us at 617-363-8600 orWolkCenter@hsl.harvard.eduto learn more and get help.About the Bloggerhttps://blog.hebrewseniorlife.org/caring-someone-dementia-during-coronavirus-pandemicAlvaro Pascual-Leone, MD, PhD, is a Professor of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, and a Senior Scientist at the Hinda and Arthur Marcus Institute for Aging Research at Hebrew SeniorLife (HSL).

Hearing a loved one receive a dementia diagnosis is among the hardest news a person could hear. My grandmas diagnosis left a defining impact on my family. Fortunately,adequate preparation can lead to less stress on you and a better quality of life for your loved one. At Oasis Senior Advisors, we love to help families solve these problems before they happen. First, understand that some cognitive decline is completely normal. Signs of normal cognitive decline include:More thinking timeMultitasking becomes more difficultSome new information, like technology, can be difficult to learnCommon, everyday tasks take longerIf youre worried your loved one may be suffering from dementia, see a physician. We encourage our families to see a neurologist or other clinic that specializes in dementia.If your loved one receives a diagnosis, get your team of support ready. Your children, close friends, and extended family need to be made aware of the diagnosis, and you, the family, need support! Some people are keenly aware and understand their diagnosis, while others cannot grasp what is happening and may be certain nothing is wrong. Your loved one may even blame you. Do not take this personally; its frequently outside of your control. As a family member or caregiver, it can be frustrating when your loved one can no longer understand you. If they dont understand, they no longer can, so please dont expect them to. It robs them of their dignity, causes frustration, and accomplishes nothing. They cannot change, so we must. Join them in their reality. If they believe theyre in a different time and place, as is common, join them there. There are many ways to care for a loved one. If you care for your loved one for a period of time, deep into disease, or not at all, you are wonderful! Admitting that caregiving is not for you may actually be the best way for you to care for him or her. Assisted Living, Memory Care, and Home Care are all valid and correct options. Were here to help, regardless of what your correct decision may be. Editors Note: Written by Steven Moses, CSA CDP CPRS, with Oasis Senior Advisors of Orlando. He can be reached at 407 250 8100 or visit www.OasisSeniorAdvisors.com/Orlando

Keep hearing aids safe during spring weather and activities with these helpful suggestions.While spring is a wonderful time to enjoy nature and the outdoors, this seasonal change can also wreak havoc if you wear hearing aids. From sunlight to moisture, there are many potential hazards to hearing aids to look out for. In this guide, well explore how to protect your hearing aids in spring, with these helpful tips:Clean your hearing aids at least once a weekReplace or recharge your batteries frequentlyAvoid excess moistureKeep a hearing aid dehumidifier on standbyWatch the sunscreenLimit sunlight exposureStore your aids in a cool, dry locationLearn more about each of these suggestions below.Clean your hearing aids at least once a weekAs the weather turns warmer, itsimportant to cleanyour hearing aids every week or even more frequently to keep them running smoothly. Ear wax can split or break the tubing and earmolds of your aids, while excess pollen, dust and debris can also cause problems for your device. There are many great cleaning products and maintenance kits that can help you clean your hearing aids effectively. Consider asking your hearing health professional what they recommend.Replace or recharge your batteries frequentlyWhen batteries begin to run out, replace or recharge them as soon as possible to avoid any corrosion or rust build-up. You can check the power remaining in your hearing aid batteries with a battery tester. Leaving the door of the battery component open at nighttime is another way to protect and enhance the quality of your batteries and device.Avoid excess moistureExcess moisture is one of the leading causes of damage to your hearing aids. Thats why its important tolimit exposure to water, humidity, or perspirationduring the spring and summer months. Be sure to take your hearing aids off when youre showering, intensely exercising, or exposed to humid environments.Keep a hearing aid dehumidifier on standbyRegularly check the tubing and battery compartments of your hearing aids to see if there are any water droplets or accumulated moisture inside.Using a hearing aid dryer or dehumidifiercan help remove this excess moisture and condensation from your device. It will also help prevent bacteria growth that can cause itchy ears.Watch the sunscreenAs the temperatures begin to rise, many of us will apply sunscreen to protect our skin. However, sunscreen contains oils that can affect your hearing device. When applying sunscreen during these warmer months,take extra precautions with lotions and sprays. Before applying sunscreen to your ears, face, and neck, you may want to remove your hearing aids first to protect them from exposure and wash your hands before putting your devices back in.Limit sunlight exposureSunlight is another big culprit of springtime hearing aid problems. To prevent the plastic coating from melting, keep your hearing aidsout of direct sunlight. Dont leave them in a vehicle outside for an extended period, and look for shady areas when spending time outdoors.Store your aids in a cool, dry locationOur last tip to protect your hearing aids in spring is to store them in a safe, cool, and dry location when theyre not in use. As weve noted, sunlight and moisture can quickly damage your device, so consider placing your device in a cool and dry location at night and during other non-usage times.In this guide, we covered how to protect your hearing aids in spring. As the weather begins to warm up, cleaning and handling your hearing device with care can also help maintain peak performance.Written & Submitted By: CapTel- click for more information*Click Here for Original Blog*

LIFE is an option that allows older Pennsylvanians to live independently while receiving services and supports that meet the health and personal needs of the individual. Living Independence for the Elderly (LIFE) is a managed care program that provides a comprehensive, all-inclusive package of medical and supportive services. The program is known nationally as the Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE). All PACE providers in Pennsylvania have "LIFE" in their name.#listing_mgr{7 basic_search}#

Recommendation Regarding the Use of Cloth Face Coverings, Especially in Areas of Significant Community-Based Transmission.CDC continues to study the spread and effects of the novel coronavirus across the United States. We now know from recent studies that a significant portion of individuals with coronavirus lack symptoms (asymptomatic) and that even those who eventually develop symptoms (pre-symptomatic) can transmit the virus to others before showing symptoms. This means that the virus can spread between people interacting in close proximityfor example, speaking, coughing, or sneezingeven if those people are not exhibiting symptoms. In light of this new evidence, CDC recommends wearing cloth face coverings in public settings where other social distancing measures are difficult to maintain (e.g., grocery stores and pharmacies)especiallyin areas of significant community-based transmission.It is critical to emphasize that maintaining 6-feet social distancing remains important to slowing the spread of the virus. CDC is additionally advising the use of simple cloth face coverings to slow the spread of the virus and help people who may have the virus and do not know it from transmitting it to others. Cloth face coverings fashioned from household items or made at home from common materialsat low cost can be used as an additional, voluntary public health measure.The cloth face coverings recommended are not surgical masks or N-95 respirators. Those are critical supplies that must continue to be reserved for healthcare workers and other medical first responders, as recommended by current CDC guidance.This recommendation complements and does not replace thePresidents Coronavirus Guidelines for America, 30 Days to Slow the Spreadexternal icon,which remains the cornerstone of our national effort to slow the spread of the coronavirus. CDC will make additional recommendations as the evidence regarding appropriate public health measures continues to develop.Page last reviewed:April 3, 2020Content source:National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases (NCIRD),Division of Viral Diseases#sbbdfw #kareworks #makeyourownmask #diymask #covid19 #sbbcovid19 #clothmask #fabricmask #coronavirus

Kare Works presents Seniors Blue Book Senior Care Spotlight featuring Matthew Princiotto with Home Care Assistance of Collin County. Matthew talks about senior isolation.#Seniorliving#seniorcare#sbbdfw#kathleenwarshawskyLearn more about Home Care Assistance of Collin County here.

Work out your way from the comfort of your home with online classes just for SilverSneakers members.SilverSneakers is more than a fitness program. Its an opportunity to improve your health, gain confidence and make new friends in a whole new way, said SilverSneakers member and Florida resident, Pat McCormick. Now SilverSneakers has made it even easier to make fitness a habit with SilverSneakers LIVE online classes!With hundreds of virtual SilverSneakers classes a week, you have a variety of options so you can find something that fits your needs and your schedule. Youll find everything from Zumba and strength classes to yoga and tai chi. There are classes for beginners and ones for more advanced exercisers.SilverSneakers LIVE workouts, like all SilverSneakers classes, are tailored specifically for older adults. Some people might be more active, some may have more limitations, and others may be managing chronic conditions. Thats why youll find a variety of ways to adapt each workout to meet your personal needs.During the COVID-19 pandemic, home is often the safest place to be, and now you can enjoy your favorite SilverSneakers classes without stepping outside. It may also be an advantage for anyone who feels uncomfortable in a gym or is hesitant to try a new class.To ensure that you dont miss a workout, youll get a personal email reminder for each class that you sign up for. Easy!Forming a community online may sound unlikely, but its happening at SilverSneakers LIVE! Members log in before class and stay on after class to talk to each other in the chat function. Many members credit this virtual community with helping them to reduce social isolation and loneliness.Ready to Get Started? If youre already a SilverSneakers member, log in to or create your online account to check out SilverSneakers LIVE. If you are not a member but have a Medicare Plan, it may include SilverSneakers at no additional cost. Check your eligibility and log in at SilverSneakers.com.If you dont have SilverSneakers as a benefit through your Medicare plan, visit our Facebook page to experience SilverSneakers Facebook Live classes!Editors Note: For more information visit SilverSneakers.com or call 1-888-423-4632

Our historyIn 1979, Jerome H. Stone and representatives from support groups met with the National Institute on Aging to explore the value of an independent, nonprofit organization to complement federal efforts on Alzheimer's disease (AD). That meeting resulted in the April 10, 1980, formation of the Alzheimer's Association. Today, the Association reaches millions affected by AD across the globe. As the largest donor-supported, voluntary health organization for AD, we are a catalyst for advancements in Alzheimer's care, research and advocacy. We enhance care and supportThe Alzheimer's Association works to enhance care and support for all those affected by AD and related dementias. Our Helpline offers information, counseling and advice 24/7. We offer support groups that meet right here in the Treasure Valley. Our online resources provide families with information through our Alzheimer's and Dementia Caregiver Center, which features sections on early, middle, and late-stage caregiving and local education programs. Trial Match makes it easy for people to enroll in clinical tr