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

What is Low Vision:Low Vision as defined by The Vision Council, is a term used to refer to a visual impairment that is not correctable through surgery, pharmaceuticals, glasses or contact lenses. It is often characterized by partial sight, such a blurred vision, blind spots, or tunnel vision. Low vision can impact people of all ages, but is primarily associated with older adults.What causes Low Vision: Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD/ARMD): AMD is a leading cause of vision loss among Americans over age 60. It accounts for nearly half of all low vision cases. It is caused when the part of the eye responsible for sharp, straight-on vision the macula breaks down and causes a loss of central vision. There are two types of AMD, wet and dry. Wet AMD is caused by the growth of abnormal blood vessels under the macula. Central vision loss occurs rapidly with wet AMD. In dry AMD, light-sensitive cells in the macula slowly break down, leading to a gradual loss of central vision. Diabetic Retinopathy: According to the National Eye Institute, more than 30 percent of Americans diagnosed with diabetes have some form of diabetic retinopathy. It is a major cause of blindness and is directly related to high blood sugar, which damages blood vessels. That damage affects the retina and can even lead to its detachment. Glaucoma: Glaucoma is the second leading cause of blindness. With glaucoma, portions of vision are lost over time, usually with no warning signs or symptoms prior to vision deterioration. For many, a decrease in peripheral vision is the first sign of glaucoma. Cataracts: Over 20 million people in the US alone have cataracts according to Prevent Blindness America. It appears as a clouding of the lens of the eye. Retinitis Pigmentosa: This is a group of inherited diseases affecting the retina resulting in progressive vision loss. This type of vision impairment often begins in childhood with poor night vision and progresses over time.Where can I get help?In Fairfield & New Haven counties there are 9 Lions Low Vision Centers at your disposal, these centers are in partnership with an established health care facility. These centers are staffed with Occupational Therapists (OT) that are specifically trained in helping patients with low vision. Each initial visit begins with an evaluation of your condition and then the OT has a starting point of your specific needs. The evaluation is approximately 1 hour long for your first visit. Your treatment may require a few visits to provide you with the best care. The OT will determine different devices that will assist you with dealing with the amount of eye sight that you have remaining. ALL devices that are given to you during a visit are 100% FREE, however the OT is a staffed person at the medical facility and will bill your insurance for any charges. Depending on your specific insurance you may be required to pay a co-pay for the services that the OT provides.There are only 4 steps you need to take to receive services from 1 of our Lions Low Vision Centers.1. Visit your eye care professional.2. He/She should complete the referral form (available for printing from our website) and fax that form into the center that is closest to your home.3. You then call that center (phone numbers are on the front side of the referral form) and make an appointment with the OT that does Low Vision evaluations.4. Go to the scheduled appointment.Our centers are in the following towns: Bridgeport, Danbury, Derby, Greenwich, Naugatuck, New Haven, North Haven, Southbury, Waterbury. You can get more information at our website: www.lionslowvisioncenter.org

Kare Works presents Opportunities for ConnectionDuring Isolation in Senior Living.Hosted by Kathleen Warshawsky, BSN, RN, Publisher of Seniors Blue Book and President of the Dallas Area Gerontological Society. Featured speaker, Hayley Moseley, MA, ACC and Manager, Life Enrichment Team at CC Young Senior Living.Learning goals: Identify opportunities that have been created during this difficult time and strategies to maximize these opportunities Implement strategies to create improved connections between the facility and community Identify needs of the activity department to implement a new model of care and resources that assist with meeting these needs Provide resources for the new model of careResource Links:Resources for Managing Activity Services Delivery during COVID-19 PandemicTechnology ChecklistClick on the photo to watch the video.To learn more about CC Young:CC Young Assisted Living|CC Young Memory Support|CC Young Skilled Nursing|CC Young Adult Day CenterPHONE(214) 305-9662Learn more about CC Young Senior LivingCC Young Assisted Living|CC Young Memory Support|CC Young Skilled Nursing|CC Young Adult Day Center

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.

Able bodies and disabled bodies are all part of aging. The issue of disability for healthy individuals is not so much whether but when, and not so much which disabling event or illness but, how many and in what combination. The good news is that there are medical specialists and care teams that can champion the importance of coordination of care that includes customized, special attention to functional status and quality of life after a disabling event. This is important to know because functional status is by far the most important factor affecting quality of life and healthcare service utilization in the senior years. Physicians who specialize in Physical Medicine& Rehabilitation (PM&R) are trained to focus on the patient as a whole person and to put the medical management of a disabling event within the context of that individuals life and environment. PM&R medical specialists are also called physiatrists(fee-zy-a-trists0.Asking your care provider about rehabilitation led by a specialist in this area further opens the door to coordinated care on your behalf. By partnering or consulting with a PM&R specialist, your primary care physician, or your hospitalist, neurologist, orthopedic surgeon, trauma surgeon, neurosurgeon or home health care team can enhance the ultimate chances of you doing well quicker and more comprehensively with conditions such as stroke; rheumatoid arthritis; total hip or knee replacement; sports-related injuries; musculoskeletal sprains and pain; neurological diagnoses such as multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injury, and traumatic brain injury; as well as debility that can develop after being in the hospital with a prolonged critical illness. Asking for a referral to a physiatrist can be a priceless form of self-advocacy, since, even today, there remain many physicians, care managers, and home health care providers who are not familiar with the expertise available in the field of PM&R.This article was submitted by Indira S. Lanig MD, Medical Director at Northern Colorado Rehabilitation Hospital, in Johnstown, CO. The NCRH team of physicians and therapists can be reached at 970-619-3454.

Public Health Departments Serve Communities throughout Idaho Idahos seven Public Health Districts were established in 1970 under Idaho Code to ensure essential public health services were made available to the citizens of the State. The Public Health Districts are controlled and governed by a local Board of Health appointed by county commissioners from that district. In the Treasure Valley, Central District Health Department provides services to Ada, Boise, Elmore and Valley counties. Southwest District Health provides public health services to Canyon, Adams, Gem, Owyhee, Payette and Washington counties. While Public Health Districts serve the health needs of low-income families and individuals, they also provide a broader range of services that impact everyone. Food establishment and public swimming pool inspections are conducted by health department staff to ensure safety for all. Child care facilities are inspected for health and safety. Public Health Preparedness staff work closely with local emergency response organizations such as law enforcement agencies, fire departments, emergency medical services and health care facilities to plan and prepare for public health emergencies. Women, Infants and Children (WIC) clinics provide supplemental nutrition, breastfeeding information and support, and referrals to other health care services for women, infants and children up to the age of five. Limited clinical services such as reproductive health/family planning, sexually transmitted disease treatment, and oral health education and preventive services for uninsured and Medicaid-eligible children are offered. Free or low-cost community-based Fit and Fall Proof classes for older adults are organized and overseen by local public health departments. Fit and Fall Proof classes are led by volunteer peer-leaders and designed to focus on functional exercises that reduce the risk of falling. The Public Health Districts are playing an integral role in chronic disease prevention. Diseases such as diabetes, heart disease and stroke have risen dramatically over the past several decades due to tobacco use, physical inactivity and poor eating. The Public Health Districts work within their communities to convene and coordinate efforts to increase access to physical activity and healthy eating opportunities and decrease tobacco use within the various community settings such as worksites, child care facilities and schools. Reducing chronic disease is a complicated issue and requires the coordinated efforts of many community partners. Public Health is working to link nontraditional agencies to address the chronic disease epidemic. This is just a sampling of the vast number of services provided by local Public Health Districts to promote healthy people in healthy communities. Jaime Harding, MHS, CHES Program Manager, Health Promotion and Health Policy Central District Health Department Boise, Idaho

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

Providing extra support with things like housekeeping, prepared meals, and transportation, they also boast calendars offering both on- and off-site entertainment, fitness classes, and education programs. Moving to these communities means planning ahead so support is available if or when they may need it.Studies show that people choosing to relocate to independent retirement communities, while still relatively healthy, actually have fewer health challenges and enjoy a higher quality of life than those of similar age who remain in private residential neighborhoods. This may be the result of being in an environment where residents have access to healthy meals, engage in regular social interaction, are encouraged to participate in physical fitness programs, and experience peace-of-mind from knowing they arent alone should they become ill or fall.3) Needs-based movesUnlike the two other types of moves, needs-based moves are usually involuntary. In other words, the person was told they had to move or they perceived they had little choice in the matter. Relocations of this type are often precipitated by a fall or result from functional challenges associated with chronic illness or cognitive decline. When moving out of necessity, housing options become more limited.Needs-based moves are often made directly from the hospital to a long term care facility or assisted living. The hardest kind of move one can make, these are usually the result of an Im not ready yet mentality or lack of financial means to otherwise have proactively relocated. Involuntary moves have been shown in numerous studies to correlate with higher levels of depression and decreased quality of life and well-being.Its about choiceEvidence (both empirical and anecdotal) shows that advance planning and preparations are critical for ensuring your residence meets your needs as you age. So, rather than simply a goal to age-in-place, why not make the goal to age in therightplace.In fact, what it boils down to is control.Its who is in control of the decision, whether to move or stay put, that makes all the difference. When you make the decision for yourself, either in advance or in the moment, you control your own destiny. If left for others to decide on your behalf, you may not like the outcome.Editors Note: Article provided by Helen Morgan, Resource 55 . Author, Nikki Buckelew, OKC Mature Moves

Todays Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) can take many different shapes and forms.As recent as ten years ago, when people referenced SNFs, they were generally talking about a traditional long term care nursing home. In recent years, the SNF model has evolved to include specialized short term rehabilitation centers, geared towards helping people return home after a serious illness, injury or operation. These centers are staffed with a team of licensed therapists, compassionate nurses and doctors.Admission eligibility depends on a few factors. First, are you in need of long term care or short term rehabilitation services? If you are in need of short term rehabilitation and you have Medicare or private insurance, both will help pay for these services. Prior to entering a SNF, Medicare beneficiaries must have been hospitalized for a minimum of three consecutive nights. Medicare covers the first 20 SNF days paid in full. Days 21-100, the Medicare beneficiary either pays a daily co-insurance rate or may have opted for a secondary insurance that picks up these co-payments. Medicaid traditionally pays for long term care services.What should you do if youre discharged home but dont feel strong enough to be home? Medicare allows a 30-day window for people who return home to be admitted into a SNF, as long as the patient was in the hospital for at least three consecutive midnights. There is no need to readmit to the hospital, as you can be directly admitted to a SNF.There are multiple skilled nursing facilities in your area, how should you choose where to go? www.Medicare.gov/nursinghomecompare offers a reliable rating system based on staffing, quality measures and health inspection outcomes. Understanding the 5-star rating system is crucial to ensuring that you receive exceptional clinical care from a reputable facility. New SNFs will not obtain their 5-star rating until after one year of operation. As with rated facilities, it is incredibly beneficial to schedule a tour for yourself or a loved one to gain understanding about your SNF of choice. While on a tour of the SNF be sure to observe the staff friendliness, building cleanliness, amenities and overall feel of the facility. Its our privilege to guide you through this process and be your personal resource on the path to optimal wellness.Editors Note: This article was submitted by Chad James, N.H.A. Chad James is the Executive Director for The Center at Lowry and may be reached at 303-676-4000.

Selecting the right Medicare health insurance coverage is more challenging than ever before. Not only is there a large and confusing selection of choices (Original Medicare, Medicare Advantage, Medigap, Pensions, Tri-Care, Prescription Drug Plans, Cost Plans, MSA, PFFS, PACE, Special Needs Plans, etc.), but finding trulyknowledgeable, unbiasedadvice seems almost impossible, yet it is critically important to you.Most folks on Medicare don't really know or understand the coverage they have as compared to the other options available. This can lead to MAJOR PROBLEMS down the road. Some of these problems are: HUGE co-payments for hospitalizations, surgeries, cancer treatments (chemo & radiation), chronic illnesses etc. I've even encountered people that were refusing necessary cancer treatments because they simply couldn't afford them. Another common problem is going into the doughnut hole sooner than need be.The right medicare advisor can help you avoid these common problems. But finding the right advisor isnt always easy. Here are the traits you should look for in an advisor to ensure that you receive knowledgeableandunbiasedadvice; 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. This is not a one size fits all type of insurance, 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. 5) Is there an advisory fee? The short answer should always be no.Make sure you get the expert Medicare advice you need. This will 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 byBill Gundelfinger-Mr. Medicare? ofSenior Benefit Advisors, Medicare Experts. Helping Medicare Beneficiaries get the most out of their health insurance. He can be reached at720-675-8032 or 800-376-5450

A couple months ago, Ray Andrus retired from decades of working for big names in construction. Now he's doing smaller projects for people he's never met and it may be some of the most rewarding work he's ever done."We all need to help each other and perhaps the best help we can give is to those who need the help the most," he said.Andrus, 69, recently responded to a newspaper article asking for volunteers to perform odd jobs at the homes of the elderly and disabled in Davis County. He has committed 20 hours each week to fixing minor electrical problems or leaky faucets, digging up broken sprinklers, replacing light bulbs and getting caught up in a friendly conversation or two.Andrus' commitment was a huge boon to the Do Unto Others program that Rocky Mountain Care Foundation launched this summer. An earlier countywide assessment had revealed large gaps in the services available to the two populations and Rocky Mountain's Dede Fluette was excited to get something started.She had previously worked for similar programs in neighboring counties and continues to be shocked that "someone pays me to do this we just do good deeds and nice things for people."Fluette feels the elderly generation deserves star treatment."They are the most vulnerable and the most deserving population," she said. "It's not like you can say to an 85-year-old woman 'go get a job.' They've kind of put in their time and if we can help them, then that's great."The same is true for the disabled population the program assists, Fluette said."I don't think that just because they can't get up on the roof and fix a swamp cooler that they can't live independently in their own home," she said.The Do Unto Others program in Davis County has a few requirements. Beneficiaries must be living at 150 percent of the federal poverty level, be 60 or older or living with a disability, own their home and live within the boundaries of Davis County. The program teams up carefully screened and experienced volunteers to help with minor home repairs and limited seasonal yard maintenance.For more information contact Rocky Mountain Care Foundation at 801-397-4160Editors Note: This article was submitted by Wendy Leonard. Wendy is a reporter with Deseret News and may be reached at wleonard@deseretnews.com

There was a time when hospitals and skilled nursing facilities (SNFs) would welcome you to their facilities with open arms, and gladly keep you there for as long as: 1) they thought they could help you, 2) your insurance (Medicare or Private) would pay for your stay. Keeping the heads in the beds was considered good business. Then along came the Affordable Care Act, with the intent being to: 1) Reduce Costs, 2) Improve Quality of Care, 3) Increase Access to Care for all Americans. Love it or hate it, the 2010 law is continuing to affect the way hospitals and SNFs behave. While the understanding of the changes and the adoption of new policies has been slow, it is happening and we all must understand how it impacts our lives.Many know that today, hospitals are being increasingly penalized for re-admissions, defined as a patient getting re-admitted within 30 days of discharge for the same condition. Hospitals are also getting very heavily scrutinized on what is called Medicare Spend per Beneficiary (MSPB), a comparative measure that evaluates how much a patient costs starting 3 days before, and ending 30 days after their discharge! To address some of these new challenges, many new payment model reforms have been introduced, such as Bundled Payment for Care Initiative (BPCI), using HMO-like tactics to manage care and costs.Bottom line, EVERYONE will be impacted. How? Patients will be moved quickly to the setting offering the LOWEST COST OF CARE, this is almost always to the HOME environment. To do this successfully, a hospital and SNF must work in concert to ensure successful discharges, earlier than they historically have, but with a much more effective COORDINATION OF CARE. This approach to TRANSITIONAL CARE places a premium on finding the best Home Health (medical), Home Care (personal care) and/or the best Assisted Living or Memory Care Community. If done correctly, the costs are kept down while the quality of care is increased, keeping the individual out of the hospital and SNFEVERYONE WINS! Even more importantly, patients MUST ACCEPT the help, to transition home or into a supportive community swiftly and smoothly. The statistics speak for themselves. those that accept help at home, or to move into an appropriate Assisted Living or Memory Care community, are much less likely to head back to the hospital or SNF! Isnt that what we ALL want after all?Submitted by Colin Preis, Owner of AMADA Senior Care specializing in Transitional Care. See their advertisement in Senior Blue Book to learn more about their services.

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.

Soaking in the easy Florida lifestyle, Marty and Sue Raskie relish each day of their hard-earned retirement. After more than 40 years of working in health care, the couple knew it was time to determine the best fit for their long-term care plans.I was a pharmacist for many years and Sue was a registered nurse, so we know what happens on the other end of it, Marty Raskie recalls. We know how difficult it is to arrange for health care for older people when there are limited resources. Its kind of like you wouldnt go to court without a lawyer, so you dont want to go into health care without an advisor.The Raskies are members of Senior Choice at Home, a Continuing Care at Home Program, the only one of its kind in the state of Florida. This helps seniors stay in the comfort of their homes longer, adding to their independence and quality of life. This program is referred to as a Continuing Care Retirement Community Without Walls, which wraps around you inside your home. The membership-based program provides comprehensive long-term care and personal care services for older adults who prefer to age in place, with the assurance that future living arrangements are secured and covered in their membership.We dont have a close support system anymore because our children have all moved away, so we needed that umbrella system to know that if we became disabled or anything would happen, there would be somebody there to take care of us. They would coordinate the care, get us what we need and help us with finding the right retirement home, Marty says.A 2021 AARP survey shows that 77% of adults 50 and older want to remain in their homes for the long term, which has been a consistent number for more than a decade. As an alternative to moving into a retirement home, Senior Choice at Home enables active seniors to live independently among friends and neighbors, while being treated to the highest level of care at home.One of the things that impressed me the most is that theyre very proactive, Marty explains. Our care coordinator comes out to the house regularly, and we can contact her at any time. While they are checking you out, they will also check your home for things like tripping hazards and that you have a fire extinguisher.Now more than ever, thousands of seniors across the country are opting to receive continuing care at home. With Senior Choice at Home, Marty sleeps better at night knowing its seamless network of care provides all the services they need to live safely in their own home, including personal care coordination, home inspections and emergency response system services.When you get up in the middle of the night, you dont have to worry anymore, Marty states. You dont have to think about what happens if you fall and break your leg. You can call your care coordinator, so they can take care of the next steps for you.When a member needs medical attention, Senior Choice at Homes personal care coordinators are at their side, helping them to navigate through the health care journey. Their needs may range from a short stay in skilled nursing for rehabilitation or support from home health aides, who can assist with bathing, grocery shopping, cooking and other tasks.Senior Choice at Home gives members peace of mind knowing if and when needs change, support will be there to provide every level of care, every step of the way.To learn more, about the author, Senior Choice at Home, CLICK HERE!

Find the Right Seniors Resources for You.Getting connected to the right information at the right time can be challenging when a major life event happens.Many people do not know where to begin. Some ask family members, a friend, or clergy. Others find it hard to admit they need help. Some people do not use computers. There are additional challenges. Each person has unique needs. Every community is different. Information must be tailored to each person and community.Where to begin? 2-1-1 and Elder Helpline services offer free, confidential community resource information and referral. Calls are answered by trained specialists that know what types of non-emergency local help is available and can access comprehensive resource databases.What is 2-1-1? It is a 3-digit local number that connects callers to information about social services that people of all ages may need in the county they live. For example, food, housing, affordable child or parent care, or short-term help for paying bills. 2-1-1 specialists offer information and referral to services a caller may not normally be aware of. Callers are responsible for making their own contacts with potential service providers. 2-1-1 services in SWFL are available 24 hours, daily to assist with non-emergency needs. Some 2-1-1 calls cannot be reached by mobile, pay or hotel phone lines. In this event, dial the alternate number provided.Lee County 2-1-1: Call 2-1-1 or (239) 433-3900. For Hendry and Glades County, call (800) 887-9234. United Way of Lee, Hendry, Glades and Okeechobee Counties.Collier County 2-1-1: Call 2-1-1 or (239) 263-4211. The provider is United Way of Collier County.How is Elder Helpline different? It provides information and referral about community resources for people age 60 and above and adults with disabilities. Certified specialists can direct callers to public and private community resources of their choice that are most capable of meeting their needs.Call (866) 413-5337 for Elder Helpline Services of the Area Agency of SWFL.Call (800) 963-5337 to access the Statewide Florida Elder Helpline.Editors Note: Dale Adler, MA, MSW is a gerontologist, program developer and consultant. She can be reached at dladler@lifecourseconcepts.com or (239) 466-7812.

Expressions of gratitude are often reserved for the holiday season. Thanksgiving seems to be the time of year when giving thanks just rolls right off the tongue. But, what if you changed your attitude toward gratitude and started practicing it every day?Research has linked many health benefits, both physically and mentally, to practicing gratitude. Being thankful can decrease your blood pressure, boost your immune system, reduce aches and pains, increase energy, and help develop deeper (and more meaningful) bonds with others.When faced with adversity, Robert Emmons, the worlds leading scientific expert on gratitude, noted, gratitude helps us see the big picture and not feel overwhelmed by the setbacks were facing in the moment.,Keep a journal.Dont set a limit, write one brief reflection for which youre thankful, or write many. Journaling is favored because it helps to change perceptions by shifting the thought process.Plus, youll sleep better.Create a collage/visual.Decorate a piece of paper or sturdy board with positive imagery. Fill the space with family photos, inspirational quotes and other things that make you feel grateful and appreciative.Write a letter.Is there someone that has made a positive difference in your life? A caregiver, volunteer, friend or family member? Reflect on significant moments youve shared, and let your gratefulness flow from your pen.Take a mindful walk.While taking a stroll, challenge yourself to notice something beautiful or that you havent seen before.Acknowledge others.Smile more, be kind and look for others who are doing good things. Give recognitiona thank you can go a long way.The COVID-19 pandemic has been a remarkably challenging time for everyonephysically, mentally and emotionally. To alleviate your negative feelings during this unprecedented time, be mindful and actively look for reasons to be thankful to encourage positive thinking, provide a sense of purpose, and help you to focus on what matters._____________________________Editors Note: Lainey Goss, marketing director at Senior Commons at Powder Mill Independent Living, Personal Care and Memory Care, submitted this article.

In sickness and in health, until death do us part; words recited with the expectation of a life-long happy marriage and a golden retirement. One day an unwelcome visitor, Alzheimers disease, shows up at the front door. We live with a spouse who has no recollection that we were once a young, active, married couple. Our spouse has becomes a person, much like a child, for whom we provide care.We wake in the morning to toilet, dress, and make breakfast. We stay home for fear of leaving our loved one alone. Each night we listen for our loved one to get up out of bed. Sleep is illusive. Worry, stress, and overwhelm our new constant companions.What happens when a spouse admits that he or she can no longer care for a spouse with Alzheimers disease? Blame, guilt, and shame from family, children, friends, and acquaintances is freely offered, I would never put my husband (or wife) in a homewhat are you thinking? He (or she) would never do that to you.Until one walks in the shoes of a caregiver for a loved one with Alzheimers it is impossible to understand the day to day joys, pressures, and struggles. The caregiver and the care receiver become prisoners in their own home, opposite of the life imagined by many in retirement.What happens when the person you married no longer recognizes you or believes you to be a friend whose name cannot be remembered? Is the marriage still a real marriage? Should the healthy spouse dedicate their life to caregiving and sacrifice what most would consider a normal life of friends, activities, and companionship?What if the healthy spouse finds a companion outside of the marriageis that cheating? What if the Alzheimers spouse finds a companion in a care communityis that cheating? Many individuals fail to consider the realities of the isolation involved in care relationships created by Alzheimers disease that changes the dynamic of a marriage.Who is to say if this is cheating? Just as beauty is in the eye of the beholder, compassion should be in the hearts of family, children, and friends to support caregivers when the unwelcome visitor of Alzheimers arrives and tosses life upside down. It is impossible to imagine the journey of caregiving and unfair to expect a caregiver to live a life of isolation.Editors Note: Pamela D. Wilson, CSA, MS, BS/BA, CG is owner of The Care Navigator and author of the book, The Caregiving Trap: Solutions for Lifes Unexpected Changes Pamela may be reached at 720-726-3111 or by email at: pamela@thecarenavigator.com

For more information on The Sheridan at Lakewood Ranch, click here.Unfortunately, a lot of retirees havelimited fundsfor their retirement years. For many, entering retirement means tightening the purse strings to make their nest egg or pension go as far as it can. Lets take a look at the resources and choices available to seniors and your options foraffordable senior living.Affordable Senior LivingOptionsAffordable senior livingcan take many different shapes. From subsidized rent in a local apartment to programs that allow seniors to live independently in their personal homes, the following are senior housing resources that fall under the affordable umbrella.Traditional Housing OptionsYou might not need to think about retirement communities just yet.Many seniors may be able to find traditional housing or homes to meet their care and budgetary needs. Whether that means downsizing to fit your fixed income or relocating to a more central apartment that has access to public transportation, there are cost-effective housing solutions for retirement. You may find it useful to work with a rental realtor or property management company to find the perfect fit.Low-Income Senior ApartmentsMany cities and municipalities have formalized low-income housing for people in need. These apartments are usually centrally-located with close access to transportation services, and are privately owned or subsidized by the local governmentThere are traditionally income, age, or disability requirements for application, and the wait-lists can be lengthy. Check with local state or city agencies to see if there arelow-income housing options near you.HUD Housing VouchersIf you would qualify for low-income housing, but discover a lack of openings in your area, you may be able to qualify for housing vouchers. TheU.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, helps low-income families and seniors lease or purchase safe, decent, and affordable privately-owned rental housing, if they qualify for the program.Cooperative HousingDont mind sharing responsibilities or space? An emerging trend in senior housing is cooperative housing.In these housing agreements, the residents jointly own the apartment building or property and share costs amongst each other; each resident pays their portion of the mortgage, property taxes, and utilities. In cooperative housing, residents govern their property through councils, and provide amenities like shared social spaces and gardens. While growing in popularity, especially in theMidwest, long wait lists for application can be an issue. State-by-State ResourcesDepending on where you live, you may have more options available to you foraffordable senior living. In Washington State, adult family homes provide personal care services and other amenities in smaller, more intimate settings.In Illinois, there are supportive living communities that are designed and operated much like assisted living, but with subsidized costs and age requirements. You can work with local support services like your Area Agency on Aging to find out if your state offers specialized,affordable senior housing.Respite CareFor those who arent ready for a long term investment,respite careis a brief visit to a retirement community that provides the same personalized care and attention to medical that a long-term resident would expect. Respite care stays can be as short as a week, or more than three months, depending on the wants and needs of the respite care resident.A good number of people opt for respite care during the winter months, so they can enjoy socializing and activities instead of enduring the harsh elements. Respite care offers a relief from the hustle and bustle of daily life, and a welcome change of scenery!Private Affordable OptionsMany seniors find that even traditional senior living may be more affordable than continuing to live at home.Independent and Assisted Living communities can help residents consolidate their monthly costs into one monthly fee that includes rent, food, and utilities, while eliminating expensive items like property taxes, homeowners insurance, and house repairs. With therising cost of at-home care, retirement communities inclusive pricing can make sense for seniors needing personal care or help with household chores.Another factor to consider is that senior living pricing varies greatly depending on your location, and there are many communities with affordable payment plans and financial assistance available. While finding the right housing in retirement can be challenging, it is good to understand all of your options. Fortunately, there are many places you can turn to findrespite careandaffordable senior livingoptions right for you.

The Department of Veterans Affairs offers a variety of service connected compensation and non-service connected pension benefits to Veterans and their dependents, some of which are particularly relevant to senior Veterans. Below is a summary of available VA compensation and pension benefits that may be most relevant to senior Veterans and their dependents.Service connected compensationService connected disability compensation may be paid for chronic injuries, disabilities, or diseases, that were incurred in, aggravated by, or presumed to be related to, a Veterans Active Duty military service. Requirements for establishing service connection include 1) an event, injury, or illness in service, 2) evidence of a current chronic condition, and 3) the establishment of a link or nexus, between the current condition and the in-service event. Veterans who are in need of higher levels of care due to a service connected disability may be eligible for service connected Aid and Attendance benefits, or Special Monthly Compensation, as described below.Aid and AttendanceTo support a claim for aid and attendance, the evidence must show that due to disabilities, you 1) require the aid of another person in order to perform personal functions required in everyday living, such as bathing, feeding, dressing yourself, attending to the wants of nature, adjusting prosthetic devices, or protecting yourself from the hazards of your daily environment, or 2) are bedridden, in that your disability or disabilities requires that you remain in bed apart from any prescribed course of convalescence or treatment.Spousal Aid and Attendance BenefitsA Veteran who is eligible to collect a dependency allowance for service connected compensation purposes, ie is rated 30 percent or higher, may be eligible to receive an additional monthly stipend, if his or her spouse meets the above mentioned requirements for the establishment of aid and attendance.Non-service connected benefitsNon-service connected disability pension is paid based on a Veterans service, current level of disability, and financial qualifications. To qualify for pension, a Veteran must have served at least 90 days of continuous Active Duty service, or generally 24 months after September 7, 1980, have been discharged under other than dishonorable conditions, and have served at least one day of Active Duty during a period of war (combat service not required). There must be a finding of permanent and total disability, which can be established by: 1) attaining the age of 55, 2) being in receipt of Social Security Disability pension, or 3) residing in an accredited nursing home. Veterans must additionally meet certain income and net worth requirements, with consideration given to qualifying deductible medical expenses. Veterans in need of higher levels of care may be eligible for non-service connected Aid and Attendance benefits, or special monthly pension. The requirements for establishing this higher level of care are as noted above, however special monthly pension does not require that this need for additional care be related to any service connected condition.Survivors BenefitsThe surviving spouse of a Veteran may be eligible for Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC), or service connected death benefits if the Veterans death is determined to be related to service. A surviving spouse may also be eligible for non-service connected Survivors Pension based on income and net worth, if the Veteran met the above listed service requirements for non-service connected pension. Additional benefits may also be paid to surviving spouses if a need for higher levels of care, or Aid and Attendance is established.More InformationInformation, to include payment rate tables for both service connected and non-service connected benefits can be found at www.va.gov. Compensation and pension benefits are tax-free, and are not paid concurrently, rather the Veteran will receive whichever benefit is greater. To apply for any benefits, contact your local Veterans Service Organization or apply online at www.ebenefits.va.gov.

Why would we call arthritis the silent disease? Most people don't recognize the signs and symptoms of arthritis as they begin to get them. Arthritis is not an injury and does not happen overnight. Arthritis is actually part of the aging process, and while aging cannot be prevented, we can learn how to age gracefully.Based on 2010-2012 data from the National Health Interview survey an estimated 52.5 million, or 23% of adults, have been diagnosed with arthritis. Additionally, 23 million adults have some type of activity limitation.Its projected that by 2030 more than 67 million adults will be diagnosed with arthritis. Of those, 25 million will have activity limitations.So, what can be done?Obesity is a known risk factor for the development and progression of osteoarthritis. Mechanically speaking, body weight is a 1:4 ratio. This means that one pound of added body weight translates into four pounds of pressure in the knees and hips. Simply losing 10 pounds can relieve 40 pounds of pressure in the lower extremities.Did you know that obese adults are up to four times more likely to develop knee osteoarthritis? Reduction in body weight can be a significant healthy improvement in the lives of those with arthritis.Movement has been proven time and time again to benefit those with arthritis. Most people who have been diagnosed with arthritis report that they have no leisure time activities in their lives. That is considerably higher than those without arthritis.Those who suffer with arthritis also suffer from other diseases associated with inactivity, such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, obesity and other limitations. Physical activity not only reduces the symptoms of arthritis, but lowers the risk of other conditions associated with low activity.Not surprisingly the CDC reports that arthritis is the number one disability in the United States. The most common reported disability is difficulty climbing a flight of stairs or walking three blocks. That means that 1 in 10 adults have trouble walking a distance comparable to walking from a parking lot to the back of a large store or strolling through the mall.The TOSH Arthritis Program is a multi-disciplinary program designed to help people with arthritis become more physically active and to help them better manage their arthritis symptoms. Simply put, if you have arthritis, we can help improve the quality of your life.Editors Note: this article was written by Dale Aguirre of the TOSH Arthritis Program. For more information or questions, please call the TOSH Arthritis Program at 801-314-2210.

Decades ago, if you had back pain, the possibility existed that you would have to have surgery. That in itself is frightening. Today, seniors, technology is on the verge of reducing the need for surgery and increasing the quality of life.You have probably associated with many different types of treatment for back pain. Sometimes you would take a pill or maybe have a massage or even go to the chiropractor. There is a good possibility that you received some type of relief. But, why didn't it fix the problem? Today, there are active rehabilitation systems that address the issues to fix pain created by degenerative arthritis, degenerative disc disease or osteoarthritis. These are so specialized they can help most everyone who may have some form of back pain. The next step is understanding how active rehabilitation systems work.As we age, our body begins to wear out and we are unable to perform simple daily activities that we could do in our twenty's and thirty's. Activities like mowing the yard, cleaning the house, walking the dog or taking out the trash. There are many things that can alter your ability to function normally one of them is proprioceptive balance. This is where your brain is like a satellite which controls your arm and legs movements through cell phone towers located everywhere in your extremities. For instance, stubbing your toe will make you walk different for a period of time. When that toe heals you will have lost a little bit of proprioceptive balance and your gait or how you walk will change and this in turn can make that degenerative process speed up. Now, imagine all the things you have done in your life that could have changed that balance and this is why you have a problem with walking or getting up and down or doing daily activities. This is also why you could have pain, or feel unbalanced, or weak.So how do you know if you are a candidate for active rehabilitation? If you have taken pain medications, tried physical therapy, have been to the chiropractor or considered surgery. Then an active rehabilitation system might be right for you! Don't let chronic pain hold you back any longer. New technology brings new options!Editors Note: This article was submitted by Optimum Health Center. Karl Plott is a Doctor of Chiropractic with Optimum Health Center and may be reached at 719-635-2500 or by email at karlplott@gmail.com. For more information visit Optimum Health Center on the web at: www.ruhurtingcolorado.com.

Private duty nursing is the care of individuals of every age; from newborn infants born prematurely or with neonatal health issues to our senior citizens who after many years of productive lives need assistance with the most basic tasks of living.Although we use the term nursing, private duty care can be provided by licensednurses who will perform skilled procedures such as administering of meds, tube feedings, and wound care. Non-nursing care is typically assisting individuals with personal grooming, bathing, meals, assistance with feeding, light housekeeping; as well as errands to pharmacy or grocery shopping. This non-nursing care is done by certified nursing assistants, home health aides or personal care attendants who can also assist with important mobility and functions which include ambulating, range of motion exercises, transfers in and out of bed or bathtub, and monitoring of vital signs.Private duty care can be for persons either on a temporary basis but are often more individualized and for those who require a continuous need. This type of care from non-nursing personnel has the ability to help with activities of daily living, work with people in a one-on-one setting in their homes with the desire to improve care and maintain a professional relationship with the person and their family.Who is responsible for payment of private duty services? Traditionally, private duty nursing was for Medicaid clients who require more individual and continuous care (life-long). Most services are only on an intermittent basis, generally about two hour a day from once to three or more times a week, depending on the need. For Medicaid candidates, those individuals may be referred from private practice physicians, hospital discharge planners or can obtain information and approval from agencies such as the Area Agency on Aging in your local community.Most health care provider agencies will want to obtain as much information regarding the type and amount of care necessary to help with the day-to-day tasks. First, there is no age limit for private duty home care. Individuals may need assistance from a recent acute illness or surgery requiring several months of rehabilitation or someone who become physically unable to care for themselves.A private duty nursing agency will want to develop a service plan or plan of care with you or your loved one. That plan of care will revolve around what services is best for you. A free in-home assessment may be offered by your local private duty agency which will go over topics such as: medical issues i.e. Alzheimers or dementia; physical health diabetes, arthritis, weakness; sleep disorder, pain levels, mobility problems; daily routine: self-care, assistance from family and friends, emergency help; and home issues: fall precautions, safety hazards such as stairs, and / or animals in the home.Ed. note: This article was submitted by Joel Cavalier, RN, MS, Executive Director of Nursing Management, Inc., a provider of private duty nursing service for 30 years, and a Medicaid provider for 20 years. For more information, he may be contacted at jcavalier@nursingmgt.com

Youve been on a waiting list for a senior living facility for years. In the meantime, your dream cruise is planned and that familyreunionis around the corner...then you get the call."If youre like many downsizing Seniors the question echoing in your mindis; What do I doabout the house? Here is a quick guide that can give you the confidence and structure that you need.First, take a breathyou can do this! Next, identify a trusted Realtor who has genuine experience helping Seniors. Start by looking forRealtors that have the Senior Real Estate Specialist (SRES) designation. Seniors and their families need a Realtor to help navigate the maze of financial, legal, and emotional issues accompanying the sale of your memory filled home. Im a longtime SRES and still depend on this special training to helpSeniorsthrough the process. It may sound old school, but a Realtor who listens deeply and communicates with a smile, handshake, and a visit is a must. Skills like patience, planning, and guiding are critical.Inviteyour Realtor in as early as possible towalk through the home to learn its unique character and story!Look for a Realtor who can translatethe story intoaplan to market that uniqueness. Part of their role will be to help you understand how to prepare your home for the marketwhat projects to tackle, which ones to ignore, and how to not go overboard as you prepare to sell.Like all top Realtors,we have a handy list of trusted resources to help tackle agreed upon projects. Pricing should be based on reality and facts, not hopes and dreams. Location, size, and amenities are part of the equation as are market activity, market trends, and area competition. Over the years, weve developed a very customized, yet simple, tool to accurately forecast list and sale prices. All top Realtors will have something similar in their tool belt.Be comfortable asking questionsworking with a Realtor should be a collaboration, not a dictatorship.Using a professional stagerand photographer is another must do in todays market. Digital marketing demands high quality, properly lit, compelling photosof an expertly staged homed so that it shines and tells its story clearly. Every Realtor handles this differently,but we believe in this concept so strongly that we provideboth astagerand photographerat no cost to our listing clientsit is just too important to skip.These are the steps that lead to the For Sale signand hopefully the ability to breathe a bit easier._________________________________This article was written by Mike Julian, in collaboration with Eric J. Gearhart. Both are agents with Realty One Group Unlimited and are Directors of theCertain SaleRetirementLiving Program.

Private, non-profit and government organizations providing vision resources. Many programs are sliding scale or income qualifying.#listing_mgr{7 basic_search}#

Q: If I have had a partial mastectomy(lumpectomy) for breast cancer, do I need to have post-operative radiation therapy?A: After a patient has had a breast-conserving surgery, there is a risk of the cancer recurring within the same breast. Even if your surgeon does a great job and the margins are clear, there is a chance that residual microscopic cancer cells can be left behind. Radiation therapy has the ability to destroy those microscopic cancer cells, which vastly decreases the risk that the breast cancer can return.Q: What are my options for radiation therapy after I've already had a partial mastectomy for breast cancer?A: Radiation options depend on the stage of the cancer, specifically the size of the tumor and the number of lymph nodes involved. Most patients require external beam radiotherapy to the breast, and lymphatic drainage regions may be treated if cancer is detected in the lymph nodes. Certain patients with smaller cancers may qualify for MammoSite APBI (accelerated partial breast irradiation). With APBI a balloon device within the lumpectomy cavity allows radiation to treat from the inside, the length of treatment is only one week, and the side effects are mild.Q: Why do I need to have radiation after my surgery (lumpectomy) for breast cancer?A: Although surgery removes the visible tumor, there may be microscopic cancer cells remaining in the breast. Radiation treatment is given in order to eradicate these cancer cells. Radiation has been proven to significantly reduce the likelihood of cancer recurrence. For early-stage breast cancer (stage I and II), the chances of a cancer returning after surgery alone may be as high as 3050%. With radiation, this chance is reduced to less than 10%.Q: My yearly mammograms showed a suspicious spot in my left breast and my doctor has ordered a biopsy. What does that mean?A: A biopsy means the doctors will go in and take a small piece of the spot and look at it under the microscope to determine whether it is cancer or not. Doctors don't want to miss a cancer, so even slightly suspicious spots are routinely biopsied. In fact, 90% of all biopsies are negative, meaning the spot is not cancer.Q: If my biopsy shows cancer, what happens next?A: Your doctors will stage your cancer, meaning they will determine how far advanced it is. If your cancer is caught early, which is usually the case, you will have your choice of keeping your breast or having a mastectomy.Q: I was diagnosed with breast cancer very recently and was told that I am a candidate for chemo-therapy. How will my doctors know that the chemotherapy that they have selected for my breast cancer will work for me to treat my specific breast cancer?A: People often see breast cancer as one disease and treated only one way. In fact, breast cancer is a heterogeneous disease with different cells of origin, subtypes driven by various signals that promote tumor growth, with varying risks of recurrence. It is common for different medical oncologists to select different treatment protocols due to the vast number of available therapies for breast cancer. Upon completion of chemotherapy treatment, we will continue to follow you very closely with blood work, a physical exam and imaging to make sure the disease does not return.Editors Note: This article was submitted by Janet Sperry, MD and Shemin Saferali, MD.

Wisdom perspective - time to do the things you enjoy these are just a few of the things gained with age. However, as we get older, we may have more difficulty performing tasks that were previously done with ease. We may find the day-to-day activities, more challenging, and that can be frustrating. It is important to understand that you do have options. While not every older adult is able to live completely independently, there are things that you can do to help support self-sufficiency, and maintain your independence now and in the future.Identify Challenges: Whether its out of embarrassment or concern, older adults sometimes hide the challenges they are facing from others, which can lead to stress and result in problems down the road. Identifying changes in abilities and accepting them is the first step to developing effective coping strategies. Make a list of the tasks that have become more challenging and focus on the most difficult. Identifying challenges can help you access the resources you need and gain a sense of control. Be sure to address your concerns with your physician, and dont let fear prevent you from seeking the care you need.Explore Solutions: Being empowered in the decision-making process is an essential component to maintaining your independence. After you have acknowledged the areas where you need assistance, pool your resources to identify solutions. Is there someone who is able and willing to help that you can delegate tasks to? Are there products or services that can assist you in better addressing your challenges? If driving has become more difficult, ask family and friends to set up a ride schedule or take advantage of public transportation and ride-sharing. If showering is becoming a challenge, consider purchasing a shower chair or installing an additional grab bar.Invest in Yourself: Physical activity, proper nutrition and mental stimulation are not only vital for good health, but they help you feel better inside and out! While youre at it, be sure to make time to nurture your hobbies, or take up new ones. Making an investment in your health and well-being now, will help you maintain your functional independence as long as possible.Create a Safe Home Environment: Youve probably hears the phrase a stitch in time saves nine. Taking a proactive approach with home safety can help prevent slips and falls, that can lead to injury and further mobility challenges. So, be sure to keep your home hazard free by removing throw rugs and securing lose electrical wires and other trip hazards. Organizing and labeling your personal items also creates an environment where you can remain comfortable and independent longer.Make Time for Socializing: Independence doesnt mean isolation. On the contrary, maintaining strong social relationships can provide us with the network we need to maintain an independent lifestyle. Whether its a weekly call with family, lunch with your neighbor, or game night with friends, make social time a part of your daily routine.Ask for Help: Asking for assistance when you are striving for independence may be counterintuitive, but it is important to recognize that everyone faces challenges throughout their life. There is no shame in asking for the assistance you need. In fact, utilizing supportive resources may help you maintain your independence longer, and that is everyones goal.Editors Note: This article was submitted by Molly K. Miceli, RN, BA.Molly is the Founder and CEO of LifeStyle Options, Inc. and may be reached at 847-240-7330 or by email at lifestyle@lifestyleoptions.com

As COVID-19 continues, organizations have been forced to adjust their practices and behaviors in unexpected ways. No one could have known when this pandemic started that we would be taking extra safety precautions to limit the spread of this unknown virus.Its been challenging to limit visitors and maintain safe distance between families and loved ones living in senior communities, care facilities like Saint Therese are working hard to ensure the health and safety of our residents. Were doing everything we can to ensure our residents feel loved and cared for.Here are benefits of living in senior communities during COVID-19:Safety and SecurityLiving in a senior community during a pandemic can feel scary and overwhelming, but there are often several protocols and procedures in place that ensure everyone is safe and secure. Visitors are likely limited, minimizing your exposure to the virus, and the staff are likely required to take certain precautions as well.Regular cleaning and disinfectingAt senior communities, the custodial staff makes sure all surfaces and spaces are properly cleaned and disinfected on a regular basis. Your care facility will have CDC-approved cleaning products and disinfectants available, so you can be sure your environment is always safe and clean.Trained medical professionals on siteWhen were facing a global health crisis like COVID-19, its comforting to know that there are trained medical professionals, and health care services available to those who live in senior communities. People who are over the age of 65, or who have underlying medical conditions are among the most susceptible to develop a complication from the virus.Safer socializationLiving in a senior community ensures youll have plenty of interaction with your peers and loved ones. From seeing your friends face-to-face, to utilizing your facilitys video and conference technology to get in touch with loved ones, there are plenty of ways to stay connected during COVID-19 in a senior community.If you or your loved one need the care provided at a senior community, contact us to learn more about whether Saint Therese is the right place for you.

Working in health care is becoming a bit more complex as the world is becoming more complicated. Clients are sicker. Expectations are higher. Employment is low. Mindfulness and Compassion Cultivation Trainings appeared to be natural next steps in helping health care staff to continue their mission of providing great care to those they serve.Initial reasons to participate:Can always learn more about this subject.In our political climate, so many opportunities for conflict.Learn how to feel compassion without getting caught up in others issues.How to understand people different than yourself.Sees how friction in staff affects residents and learn how to support staff.Learn more tools in my work and life to help improve my wellbeing.Better understand compassion vs empathy.How to ensure and honor staffs purpose.Training for residents, families, and staff is vitally important to make sure everyone is on the same page.From the Stanford Medicine Center for Compassion and Altruism Research and Education, they define compassion as the following 4 step process:Awareness of suffering in others.Feeling of being emotionally moved by suffering.Motivationto see the relief of that suffering.Action and willingness to help relieve that suffering when possible.A take away from a participant:I signed up for it because I have never really had a conversation about compassion so I was curious how it would tie into my work. My biggest take was the piece about purpose and it got me thinking about what is my purpose at work and how my purpose has changed over time. This training allowed me to think about purpose in a different way and I think it can be really helpful when trying to make connections with co-workers by learning what their purpose is and how it ties into their work.The meditations we learned do make a difference. Try them:Loving Kindness wishes for others:May you be happy.May you be free from suffering.May you know peace.And here are the compassion 'wishes':May you be free from suffering.May you be free from fear and anger.May you know peace.Editors Note: This article was submitted by Yvonne Myers with Columbine Health Systems and maybe reached at 970-482-0198 or yvonne.myers@columbinehealth.com

Emergency medicine is about three things: Compassion, Skilled Care, and Speed.First, we want doctors and nurses to be nice to us, and our loved ones who are in the ER with us. Secondly, we want highly-trained doctors, nurses, and other clinicians to care for us. Finally, we want these professionals to quickly diagnose what is wrong with us, and get us on a treatment plan so we will feel better as soon as possible.At Physicians Regional Healthcare System, we are dedicated to offering quality care and outstanding service, and also providing that care as efficiently and quickly as possible. We are so confident in our ability to have our patients quickly seen that we have made a 30-minute ER Service Pledge. This is our pledge that a medical professional (physician,physician assistant or nurse practitioner) will work diligently to have patients initially seen within 30 minutes of their noted arrival (check-in) in the ER.Timely and effective care in hospital emergency departments is essential for good patient outcomes. Delays before receiving care in the ED can reduce the quality of care and increase risks and discomfort for patients with serious illnesses or injuries. ER wait times can vary widely, depending on the number of patients seen, staffing levels, efficiency, admitting procedures, or the availability of inpatient beds. The ER Pledge helps assure patients that a hospital is dedicated to not only offering quality care but also to working diligently to provide that care as efficiently as possible. The ER Pledge is part of a larger initiative that includes efforts to improve patient satisfaction.Perhaps you will never need an emergency room. But hopefully in the event you do, either for yourself or a loved one, you will remember only one health system has made a pledge that you will be seen by a physician,physician assistant or nurse practitioner within 30 minutes of check-in. Physicians Regional Healthcare System Collier Blvd. and Pine Ridge.Editors Note: Physicians Regional Healthcare System is comprised of two premier hospitals, an affiliated multi-specialty physician group, and a medical staff of over 300 highly trained physicians. Our fully integrated campuses include 24-hour emergency rooms, state-of-the-art surgery centers, full service diagnostic departments and medical office buildings hosting various physician offices. Physicians Regional Healthcare System was recently named a Top Performing Hospital by The Joint Commission for Heart Attack, Heart Failure, Pneumonia, Surgical Care, and Immunization. The hospitals are two of only 1,043 hospitals in the United States to achieve this distinction based on excellence in accountability measure performance. For more information on any of these programs or the host of other programs held at Physicians Regional Healthcare System call 239-354-6000 Collier or 239-348-4000 Pine Ridge.

People rarely plan end of life care, but the funny thing is if you ask almost anyone how he or she wants to die they can tell you. Most answers are pretty close to each other too. The themes include pain free, at home, and surrounded by those who are loved. It makes sense really. I mean, outside of being a Klingon very few want to die in battle. Most people do not want to die in pain, or alone.or afraid.So if it takes three months of planning to go to Oregon for a week, why as a culture do we think we can avoid planning what is arguably going to be our last memorable event?Perhaps the answer lies in the misconception that suffering is unavoidable. Perhaps its because planning for a trip to the beach is a heck of a lot more fun than planning our individual last hurrah. This is where working in hospice comes in handy. Ive seen such excellent examples of how to live. The best examples of a life well lived I have observed from those I have met in hospice. See thats what most people misunderstand. Hospice isnt really about dying. From an existential standpoint we are all dying, our mortal time here ebbing away one minute at a time. Hospice is for people who are rounding third base and heading home..and want to have the ability to live life up to the very minute they cant anymore.Hospice has come to be synonymous with death, but that is where we as Americans got the message wrong. Thats like saying youre going to the movies to see the credits roll. While the credits are how all movies end, thats not why you pay for the ticket. A good hospice takes care of a persons symptoms, alleviates suffering, and provides options so that each person can be self determined and enjoy each day while there are still days to enjoy. A great hospice will help you enjoy those days.I for one know what I will be looking for when the time approaches for me to make that decision. I want to go places I hate sitting at home. I too will want to be in my home with my family and my dog. I want fried food. If anyone tries to spoon feed me low sodium, low fat anything I pledge to haunt them. I want to laugh. I want the ability to be who I am until Im not anymore.Think about it. No really, take a momentWhat do you want?

A common goal for anyone reading this article is the eventual eradication of Alzheimers disease (AD). The numbers are staggering! There are over 5 million Americans with AD dementia and this number is expected to be over 16 million by 2050. One in eight persons age 65 and older, and 1 in 3 persons age 85 or more, currently has AD dementia. In short, we are in the midst of an AD crisis that is growing in size and scope. The good news is that exciting scientific advances in the past few years gives us tremendous hope that new treatments to slow down and even prevent the symptoms of AD will be available in the not-too-distant future. However, the single most important thing that anyone can do to make this happen and to have an impact on the AD crisis is to volunteer to participate in research.The Boston University Alzheimers Disease Center (BU ADC) aims to reduce the human and economic costs of AD through the advancement of knowledge. The BU ADC was established in 1996 as one of 29 centers in the US funded by the National Institutes of Health to advance research on AD and related conditions. At the BU ADC, there is likely a research study for anyone interested in volunteering. There are studies for individuals who already have symptoms and have been diagnosed with AD dementia or mild cognitive impairment (MCI), and there are studies for people who do not have any symptoms. Some studies are clinical trials involving taking an investigational new medicine or placebo to slow down the disease progression (e.g., the DAYBREAK Study) or even prevent the symptoms (e.g., the A4 Study). Some studies do not involve medications, but include new methods of diagnosing and detecting AD, such as PET scans and MRI scans (e.g., the ADNI study).Participation in research is not merely a means of moving the science forward; it can also provide important positive benefits to the participant, including a decreased sense of solitude by interacting with a research team who truly understands the disease and its toll on the patient, the caregiver, and family members. And, research participation fulfills that most important need for everyone touched by the disease: a sense of hope. It is shocking how difficult it is for researchers around the country to recruit an adequate number of people willing to participate in AD-related research. Yes, even in Boston! If this little article results in just one person to become enrolled in AD-related research, it would make a tremendous difference. Please help by participating and spreading the word!If you are interested in learning more about participating in one of these studies, call (617) 414-1077 or email joinadc@bu.edu. To learn more about the BU ADC and the research studies currently available, go to the Centers website: www.bu.edu/alzresearch.This article was written by Dr. Robert Stern.Dr. Robert Stern is Professor of Neurology, Neurosurgery, and Anatomy and Neurobiology at Boston University School of Medicine, where he is also Director of the Clinical Core of the BU Alzheimers Disease Center (one of only 30 centers funded by the National Institutes of Health, NIH).

The percentage of senior citizens continues to increase over the years which means the need for senior services is becoming more necessary for living a more comfortable life after retirement. Many of these services are provided across the Austin metro area as well as surrounding towns.However, seniors are increasingly using some of these most sought after senior services in Austin, Texas to ensure they are getting what they need in order to live their lives day to day:Senior TransportationDriving is one skill that suffers as a person ages and often it becomes impossible for a senior citizen to drive. However, maintaining independence to meet daily needs is vital. Many of those seniors who are aware of their deteriorating driving skills limit the time they drive throughout the day to reduce the risk of accidents.Capital Metro Transportation AuthorityThese public transit and paratransit services offer transportation to seniors who dont have the capability of driving. Special accommodations are provided for seniors, including lift and ramp access, front of the bus seating, special stop requests, and more. Capital Metro also operates Special Transit Services (STS) for pre-approved seniors with disabilities who need door-to-door service.Volunteer Caregiver ProgramsThese programs provide service to the greater Austin area to enhance the independence of older adults by offering specialized transportation requests. Volunteers use their own vehicles and provide free-of-charge service but clients pay parking lot fees.This service is available for health care needs and grocery store errands as well as other secondary need services like social/recreational activities, grooming, and personal errands. Seniors can request these volunteer services late morning to early afternoon depending on the volunteer.Medicaid Recipient TransportationThose seniors who qualify for Medicaid may qualify for free transportation to doctors appointments and pharmacies if they are not in a long-term care facility. The Texas Department of Human Services provides seniors free tickets to use for Capital Metro services and taxis.Healthcare at HomeThis service is a crucial part of senior living when transportation is limited and a seniors mobility is hindered. Healthcare at home provides seniors a way to receive care from medical professionals as well as receive medicine through mail or delivery, without having to go directly to a facility or store.Skilled nurses provide daily assistance to the elderly, including administering medicine, cooking meals, doing laundry and helping with personal needs. These service costs vary depending on the services provided to the patient and how often those services are requested.Other services include:Physical TherapyOccupational TherapyHome Care AideSpeech TherapyMedication ManagementAnd More!Meal DeliveryA major problem among the senior community revolves around eating, but many seniors receive help from charitable food organizations that deliver food to homes and facilities where the elderly reside.In 2013, more than 5.4 million seniors over the age of 60 experienced a time of insecurity which eventually led to hunger. Organizations like Meals on Wheels deliver meals to seniors across the Austin area to prevent those numbers from rising.Some of these meals are served at senior centers while others are delivered directly to seniors in their homes. More than 1.2 million volunteers provide service to seniors across the country and more than 300 in the Austin area make sure local seniors never go hungry. This service is provided free of charge to seniors.Finding The Best Senior Services with Seniors Blue BookWhen searching for the most beneficial services for you or your loved one, Seniors Blue Book gives you more than a choice, we give you the best option that will create the most comfortable senior living imaginable.For more information on Seniors Blue Book and our extensive resource guide to senior living in Austin, Texas, contact us today through SeniorsBlueBook.com!

Weve all heard the dreaded names - heart attack and heart failure. So what sets these two frightening conditions apart?Heart Attack: a (Myocardial infarction) occurs when a blood clot develops at the site of plaque in a coronary artery, suddenly cutting the blood supply to that part of the heart muscle. If the blood supply is not restored quickly, the heart muscle will begin to die due to lack of oxygen. It can cause permanent damage to the heart or even death.Heart Failure: (congestive heart failure) is typically a chronic, long-standing condition, while heart attacks generally come on suddenly. It occurs when the heart fails to pump enough blood to maintain the needs of the body. A common condition, it affects an estimated 5 million Americans each year.Heart failure is typically a chronic, long-standing condition, while heart attacks generally come on suddenly. While heart failure can be less dramatic than heart attack, it can also be just as lethal. If you suspect you or a loved one may be suffering from either heart failure or a heart attack, seek medical care immediately.Editors Note: This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace the advice of your doctor. Call Cardiac Care Group for more information at 239-574-8463.

Dont Stop Dreamin recognizes that many individuals have unfulfilled dreams and desires.The Dont Stop Dreamin program is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that provides for the fulfillment of DREAMS of Three Rivers Hospice & Quality Life Services entities.The program started in 2005 for residents living in Quality Life Services skilled nursing and personal care facilities. In addition, patients of the Three Rivers Hospice are eligible for dream fulfillments.Dreams may be but are not limited to day or overnight excursions, celebrations, attendance at special events, renewal of hobbies or special interests, once-in-a-lifetime experiences or the rental of electronic devices for leisure or staying in touch with family and friends. Applicants are encouraged to DREAM BIG!Qualifications for the program:No income restrictionsNo age restrictionsPossess the cognitive, emotional and physical capabilities of communicating and experiencing the Dream.For more information, visit www.dontstopdreamin.org or follow them on Facebook.Editors Note: Article submitted by Devin M. Kassi, PT, DPT, Vice President of Home Care and Hospice, Quality Life Services Family Home Health, 300 Oxford Drive, Suite 200, Monroeville, PA 15146, Phone No. 1-800-246-0084, Ext. 7010.

Residential Care Homesrefers to long-term care given to adults or children who stay in a residential setting rather than in their own home or family home.This level of care and supervision is for people who are unable to live by themselves but who do not need 24 hour nursing care. There are various residential care options available, depending on the needs of the individual.#listing_mgr{1 basic_search}#

You may have been advised to consider hearing aids even though you believe you just dont have that much trouble. Better hearing in noise. Noisy environments are a challenge even to those with great hearing. If you have even a slight hearing loss, much more of what youre trying to hear gets drowned out. This is because many speech sounds become muffled in noise. Hearing aids can help reduce background noise and preserve the speech clarity that is necessary to hear in spite of noise. Tinnitus reduction. Even mild hearing loss can be associated with ringing or other sounds in the ears, or tinnitus. When hearing is improved by hearing aids, this often reduces those sounds. Todays hearing aids may be programmed in ways to mask the tinnitus or allow you to work with your audiologist to create a tinnitus therapy program customized for you and your hearing loss. Increased energy. Straining to hear tires a person out more than most people realize. When you can relax knowing that you will likely hear most conversations well, it gives you more energy to focus on other things. This one is often overlooked. If you have a hearing loss, especially when one ear hears better than the other, it can be difficult to determine the source of something like an ambulance on the road. Where is it coming from? Is it behind me? Do I need to move? Improved memory. There appears to be a relationship between untreated hearing loss and early onset of dementia and/or memory loss. It is easier to commit something to memory when ALL senses were involved in forming that memory. And lets be realistic: you cant remember what you didnt hear or heard incorrectly.Todays hearing instruments are tiny computers that address hearing loss in all new ways. The sooner you let these tiny little miracles help you hear, the better-equipped youll be to deal with lifes other problems!Editorial note: Written by Laurie Bornstein, MS, CCC/A with Executive Hearing. She may be reached at 972-447-8330, ExecutiveHearing@gmail.com or www.ExecutiveHearing.com.

Working with an Aging Life Care Professional- What to ExpectBob and Kathy Smith (not their real names) are in their 90s and live independently in their own home. Their 2 children live in other states and have busy lives of their own. Kathy is beginning to show early signs of dementia and Bob doesnt get around as easily as he once did. They would like to remain in their home but understand they may eventually need someone to assist them in their home. Their children live too far away to provide the help they may eventually need. Bob and Kathy know that there are resources available to assist them. But like so many of their senior friends, they do not know how to access it. What should they do?Care Management or as it is now known, Aging Life Care, is the field of healthcare that provides a single point of contact to guide seniors to the resources their situation may require. Aging Life Care Professionals are particularly helpful when adult children live away from their parents and are not readily available to assist their parents. Aging Life Care Professionals help identify areas of risk or needs and with input from the seniors, their children or any other designated representative, create an action plan with appropriate response directions in place.The goal of Aging Life Care management is to be proactive and put a plan in place so that when a crisis does occur, they can readily access the pre-determined care partners. In this example, Bob and Kathy might need a Personal Emergency Response System (PERS) installed in their home to respond to a medical emergency. Additionally, a private duty caregiver might be appropriate to assist when one or both needs assistance with personal care, transportation or even light housekeeping. A life care professional will ensure that legal planning is done proactively. The clients might not be able to make important legal decisions, and this plan eliminates difficult decisions being made by family members at a high time of stress. Aging Life Care Professionals also coordinate care between the multiple facets of healthcare delivery such as home health, physicians, hospice and senior living facilities.Bob and Kathy hire an Aging Care Life Professional- Pam. Pam, after discussions with Bob and Kathy, has had a Personal Emergency Response System (PERS) installed in the house. A few days later, Bob falls and requires hospitalization which leaves Kathy home by herself. As designated by the care plan, Pam immediately secured a private duty caregiver to assist Kathy at home. As a result of this proactive approach, Bob and Kathys legal documents are in place giving their daughter the right to make preplanned decisions on their behalf. Kathy doesnt have to worry about finances or making health decisions for Bob. In the hospital, Bob can rest assured Kathy is in good hands. His children are aware of the situation and can make their plans accordingly.In todays hectic and sometimes complicated world, seniors and their families can count on Aging Life Care. They become an invaluable partner for families dealing with long-distance caregiving as well as local families looking for a health care partner. Peace of mind, how do you put a price on that?Brenda Lyle is a certified Aging Life Care Manager as well as a Certified Dementia Practitioner. She has owned an Aging Life Care Management practice since 2016, with the goal of offering affordable care management. She may be reached via email at brendalyle2015@gmail.com or 630-229-2089.

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.

To learn more aboutRowe & Walton, P.C., CLICK HERE.It appears that the COVID-19 pandemic is not going away any time soon! Now, more than ever, these three basic estate planning tools should be in everyones preparedness kit.Trust or Will: A trust instructs how your assets are managed during your lifetime and distributed upon death. A will states how your assets are distributed upon death. A trust or will safeguards your family from disputes and other complicated and costly situations, like complex probate. Your trust or will also needs to be updated to reflect your current wishes and ensure that the administrator is willing and able to manage your estate.Durable Power of Attorney (POA): If you need help handling your financial matters, you need a POA naming a trustworthy person. Your POA can speak, act, and sign on your behalf. They can open your mail, pay bills, sign checks, bank, buy and sell property, and discuss legal matters with your attorney. Conversely, you should not add your children or any other third party to your bank account or real property. If that person is seriously injured, sued, or enters bankruptcy, your assets could be at risk. Your POA needs to be up-to-date because many banks do not accept POAs that are more than 7-8 years old. A springing POA is effective only when you are declared incompetent. An immediate POA goes is effective when signed.Medical Directives: Medical directives are an important estate planning tool. Your directive names a person who can pick up prescriptions, attend appointments, and coordinate with your doctor. Without a medical directive, health care professionals cannot legally communicate with a third party concerning your condition, records, or treatment. During the pandemic, at risk or immunocompromised individuals should consider naming an adult child in place of a spouse on their medical directive.Editors Note: This article was submitted by Britten J. Hepworth. Britten is an attorney with Rowe & Walton PC and may be reached at (801) 298-0640 or by email at rw@rowewalton.com.

Lets say you experience a fall at home, resulting in a broken hip. You promptly have surgery, then spend the next few weeks at a short-term rehab facility, where you rest, heal and work to regain your physical functionality. What comes next? Should you return home immediately and resume your pre-surgery routine?Many seniors feel anxious about returning home immediately after rehab. They crave the independence and routine of their home life, but theyre worried about their health and safety. In rehab, they had the security of knowing that help was always available with a push of the buttonif something happened, they werent alone. Respite care can be an excellent solution for discharged rehab patients who feel they need a bit more support before heading home.Respite care is a service offered by many assisted living and senior healthcare communities. Think of a respite stay as a link between rehabilitation and your everyday life at home. In a respite stay, a certain level of independence is combined with readily available care and assistance from trained professionals, allowing you to ease back into your everyday life.In many respite care settings, youll have the privacy of your own apartment or room. You can socialize with other seniors in a pleasant, relaxed setting that will enable you to focus on healing. Its a less clinical experience than short-term rehab, but it provides you with the peace of mind that comes with round-the-clock care, making it a great transitional tool.Respite care serves a couple purposes. First, even after rehab you might not really feel like yourself, physically-speaking. You might have some lingering soreness or discomfort, or you might just have to get used to certain actions again, such as climbing the stairs or dressing yourself. Respite care gives you that opportunity.Second, even if youre 100 percent recovered physically, theres still the mental side of the equation. You need to gain back the confidence thats necessary to live independently. You need to get to a place where youre comfortable with your body and understand your limitations.A respite stay is relatively short term, usually no more than a month. And if you or someone you know is hesitant to return home immediately after a short-term rehab stay, its certainly an option worth considering.This article was submitted by Rodney Gonsalves, Regional Vice President of Operations at Wingate Healthcare.

To learn more aboutOasis Senior Advisors in Ogden,CLICK HERE.Seniors are told that they should limit their alcohol consumption to no more than seven beverages a weekbut as many as 5.7 million older adults participate in at-risk drinking behaviors. According to a 2018 survey, one in 10 seniors admit to binge drinkingfour or more drinks in a two-hour span. Even seasoned healthcare professionals are often surprised by the prevalence of alcohol abuse among seniors.Alcohol abuse poses risks for people of any age, but for older adults, the potential perils can be extremely high. Alcoholism can lead to numerous illnesses, including dementia. Injuries, drug interactions, automobile accidents and dehydration can cause greater harm to seniors than those abusing alcohol at a younger age.Detection and open, honest communication are vital in keeping our communitys seniors safe from alcohol abuse.Detecting Alcohol Abuse in Seniors:Detecting alcohol abuse in seniors can be difficult. Often, it can present itself with other aging-related challenges, such as falling frequently, confusion, memory issues, and even depression leading to misdiagnosis. Seniors are also less likely to disclose a history of excessive alcohol intake to their medical providers, which can lead to underdetection.Many signs of alcohol abuse in seniors are similar to those we see in a younger population:short-term memory lossirritability or severe mood swingsbloodshot eyessudden fluctuations in weightbecoming isolated from family and friendsa change to lethargic behavior, which also may signal depressionbruises from falls or smaller injuries due to loss of coordinationRisks of Alcohol Abuse in Seniors:While the issue may be difficult to detect, elder alcohol abuse is both prevalent and dangerous. A 2015 study by the NCADD (National Council on Alcohol & Drug Dependence) reports that up to 11 percent of elderly hospital admissions and 14 percent of emergency room admissions aredue to drug and alcohol related issues.Substance abuse is associated with a number of potential health issues, which can be exacerbated by the aging process. Because seniors have less muscle and a slower metabolism, alcohol can remain in the body longer, causing potential organ damage and preventing prescription medications from working properly. Substance abuse is also linked to several types of dementia. Over time, heavy drinking can lead to brain damage, as well as diabetes, abnormalities of the liver and pancreas, osteoporosis, immune disorders, nutritional challenges, high blood pressure, heart failure and stroke, and even some types of cancers.Talking with Seniors about AlcoholTalking about alcoholism with seniors can be particularly challenging. Alcoholism carries a stronger stigma among older generations, and terms such as addiction can put seniors on the defensive. Additionally, perceived ageism can be a challenge when elders are speaking with younger people.To show respect, ask questions that encourage self-reflection. For example, you can discuss goals for their independence, mobility, finances, and relationships, and then guide the conversation to a discussion of how their alcohol use impacts their progress towards those goals. Doing this will help them see the gap between where they are now and where they want to be.Most importantly, express empathy and support self-efficacy. Encourage the seniors in your life to take responsibility for their change and empower them to find their own solutions.For those who seek professional treatment, there is reason for hope. Studies have shown that seniors often have more favorable outcomes after alcohol addiction therapy and treatment than younger people.Your local Oasis Senior Advisor wants to be your trusted partner as you serve senior clients and customers. Oasis has a wide network of referral partners to assist you and the seniors you serve. To learn more about partnering with Oasis to build your business and better assist your older clients, call (888) 455-5838.

It may seem odd, but you may be unaware that you have a hearing loss -- or, not aware of the impact its having on others. This is because hearing loss is subtle and progressive. You lose hearing very slowly over a long period of time, and then you one day you realize you have to strain to hear your wife in a restaurant. You may think she's decided not to speak up anymore, but in reality she's speaking to you like she always has. Or, maybe one evening she says, please turn down the TV -- its hurting my ears! And, you think the volumes set like always.So, here are a few key questions to evaluate if you have lost some hearing. Each question is designed to gain an understanding of impact your loss may be having on your daily life. These are the things that can become very frustrating for your friends and family -- even though you may not realize it. So, here you go:Do you have a problem hearing over the telephone?Do you have trouble following the conversation when two or more people are talking at the same time?Do you have trouble understanding things on TV?Do you get confused about where sounds come from?Do you especially have trouble understanding the speech of women and children?Do people seem to mumble?Do people get annoyed because you misunderstand what they say?If your answers to these questions raise concerns, I encourage you to get a free hearing checkup. For most people, there's no need to live with these problems. Todays hearing aid technology is truly remarkable!Editors Note: This article was submitted by DigiCare with offices throughout Southern Colorado. For further information please see their ad on the Inside Front Cover or they can be reached at 719-676-3277 or via their website at www.digicarehearing.com

A desire to help your loved one living with Alzheimers disease or other dementia enjoy life to the fullest often means providing at-home care for as long as possible. This progressive disease, however, can become increasingly difficult for family caregivers to manage. At some point, the need for assisted living in a memory care setting is likely to arise. Here are a few things to look for to help you determine when that time has come.Wandering behaviors As dementia progresses, your loved one may begin to develop wandering symptoms, also known as elopement. This increases concerns about safety as your loved one can wander away alone, putting themselves at risk for falls, injury, accident or safety and weather-related concerns.Increased aggression Aggression levels can rise as Alzheimers disease and other dementiaprogress. Incidents of aggression can put loved ones and other family members at risk.Increased care needs When your loved one can no longer perform basic tasks of daily living, such as bathing, toileting and feeding themselves, they can require more care than one person can physically manage. Safety As behaviors change or worsen, it may no longer be safe for your loved one to live at home due to household hazards. Kitchen appliances, cleansers, electrical equipment and other household items can pose a threat when not handled appropriately by your loved one.Choosing to place your loved one in memory care is a personal and individual decision. Talking to your physician can provide some valuable information on what changes to expect in your loved ones condition and care plan. Hiring professional caregivers from a reputable company can assist you in immediate care needs while you determine the best next step. There are communities dedicated to care for those with Alzheimers disease and other memory disorders. They provide a home-like environment tailored to meet individual needs based on physical, mental and emotional needs. There are different pricing structures available, but some communities offer all-inclusive pricing with no level of care charges and all care and services are included. 'Editors Note: This article was submitted by The Cottages at Chapel Creek. The Cottages has been operating in Texas since 1997 and is family owned and operated by The Cottages Senior living. They may be reached at 972464-2757.

In 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.The 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 trials, while Comfort Zone and Medic Alert + Alzheimer's Association Safe Return provide location management to keep people safe and give caregivers peace of mind.Local Efforts in IdahoWalk to End Alzheimer's is held annually in Idaho to raise awareness and funds. We advance research As the largest non-profit funder of AD research, the Association is committed to accelerating progress of new treatments, preventions and ultimately, a cure. We have been a part of every major research advancement over the past 30 years. We advance the understanding of AD through our research grant program, which has awarded over $315 million to scientists since 1982 and, also publish a scientific journal, Alzheimer's & Dementia, which provides a single publication for the scientific community to share its knowledge. We advocate The Association is the leading voice for AD advocacy, fighting for research, prevention and care initiatives at the state and federal level. We worked with a state-wide task-force to ensure that Idaho's state legislature approved a plan for addressing AD and continue to work on the implementing it to make certain that Idahoans have the best possible resources available. Take a little step today to have a big impact on AD tomorrow. Join a support group. Attend an educational seminar. Advocate for research funding. Start a team and Walk to End Alzheimer's. Do a little, big thing to end Alzheimer's call 1-800-272-3900 or go to www.alz.org/Idaho.

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.

Are you like me and worry about what your retirement looks like?Have you ever thought about what your life would be like if you no longer had to make mortgage payments(except property taxes, homeowners insurance and maintenance) or if you had a cash reserve available that would allow you to lengthen/increase your retirement cash flowor cover unexpected expenses?The NEW reverse mortgage is a loan available for seniors 62+ who wish to supplement their retirement using a portion of the equity in their home. A few benefits of a reverse mortgage include: no required mortgage payments other than taxes, insurance and maintenance (you can make optional mortgage payments for tax purposes or to control your equity position to fit for your specific situation*), and you may be able to delay taking Social Security.Top financial planners are urging their clients to look at a reverse mortgage sooner rather than later during retirement. It is no longer the loan of last resort.Its always best to discuss your individualoptions with a reverse mortgage planner.This article was submitted by Renatta Anderson, Reverse Mortgage Planner , NMLS #1267012. Renatta works for Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation, NMLS Entity # 2289 and may be reached at 720-849-7389.*This advertisement is not tax or financial advice. You should consult a tax and/or financial expert for your specific situation. Copyright2017 Fairway Independent Mortgage Corporation (Fairway) NMLS#2289. 4801 S. Biltmore Lane, Madison, WI 53718, 1-877-699-0353. All rights reserved. Fairway is not affiliated with any government agencies. These materials are not from HUD or FHA and were not approved by HUD or a government agency. Reverse mortgage borrowers are required to obtain an eligibility certificate by receiving counseling sessions with a HUD-approved agency. The youngest borrower must be at least 62 years old. Monthly reverse mortgage advances may affect eligibility for some other programs. This is not an offer to enter into an agreement. Not all customers will qualify. Information, rates and programs are subject to change without

Our eyes change as we age, but knowing what to expect and when to seek professional care are important steps in safeguarding our vision. The American Optometric Association recommends a yearly comprehensive eye exam for everyone over the age of 60.Individuals who have difficulty leaving home often do not receive the eye care they require. The good news is that there are options available. Optometrists are doctors trained to detect and treat eye disorders and vision problems, and some of them examine patients on site at nursing facilities, assisted and independent living communities, and private residences. By using portable equipment they can provide most of the testing that is offered in the typical optometry office. Seniors need to be aware of the increasing risk of vision loss that occurs as they age. Optometrists can test for the full range of eye problems, including:Cataracts This is a clouding of the lens of the eye, causing vision to be blurry or foggy. Once cataracts begin obscuring normal vision, they need to be removed by an eye surgeon. Cataracts are replaced by synthetic lenses, and vision typically improves significantly with this procedure.Glaucoma This is a disease of the optic nerve that causes a gradual loss of side vision. Symptoms typically do not occur until the later stages of this condition, so it is important for seniors to be tested regularly.Macular degeneration This is a condition characterized by damage to the retina, the light sensitive tissue that lines the insides of our eyes. Central vision is lost slowly. Advanced macular degeneration leads to blindness.Diabetic retinopathy This is an eye disorder caused by diabetes. It is characterized by bleeding and swelling inside the eye. In severe cases, new blood vessels grow and then break in the eye, and this can lead to retinal detachment and glaucoma. Blindness can also result.If it has been a year or more since your last eye exam, its time to contact your optometrist. Ask if an on-site eye exam would be an option for you.Adapted from an article on the American Optometric Associations website at http://www.aoa.org/x9454.xmlEditors note: This article was submitted by Keith J. Castleton, OD. Dr. Castleton is an optometrist with On-Site Eye Care and may be reached at 801-768-9316 or by email at info@drcastleton.com.

To learn more aboutSenior Tax Advisory Group, CLICK HERE.Every day thousands of Baby Boomers enter their retirement years. They are, unfortunately, members of a generation who are largely unsure of their financial future. For the past eight years, Insured Retirement Institute (IRI) research has discovered that Baby Boomers confidence in their financial preparations for retirement is steadily dropping.The number of Americans over the age of 65 has risen over 18 percent since IRIs inaugural Baby Boomer report in 2011. As they move into their pre-retirement and retirement years, most Boomers report insufficient retirement savings, and have not taken appropriate steps to plan effectively for their golden years. Only 54 percent of Boomers have any retirement savings, and only 4 in 10 have tried to calculate how much they need to save to retire.Not surprisingly, in the 2018 update IRI reported1 that only 23 percent of Boomers believe that their savings will last throughout retirement, or that they have done a good job preparing for retirement. However, 6 in 10 Boomers believe their retirement income will cover their basic expenses, with at least some leftover for travel and leisure activities.This disconnect between savings, confidence and expectations could result in many Boomers exhausting their financial resources during retirement. If youre nearing retirement, daily life and the pressures of speculating on the future can make planning for retirement appear daunting. However, opportunities exist that can help to calm these apprehensions. Simple things, such as being proactive and routinely assessing your financial preparedness for retirement, are important first steps towards achieving financial independence. Additionally, the guidance of financial professionals can also help you to achieve your goals.Editors Note: This article was submitted by Darian Andreson of Senior Tax Advisory Group and may be reached at (719) 596-4844 or by email at Info@SpringsTax.com

A lot of people, medical professionals included, do not know the difference between home health and non-medical home care. Home health is provided by registered nurses, physical therapists, medical assistants, speech therapists and occupational therapists. These professionals make short visits, usually an hour or less, to the home of patients to conduct specific, medical procedures and tests.Non-medical caregivers whether they be family members or hired, professional home care providers, help older adults with non-medical activities of daily living (ADLs.) Activities of daily living include meal preparation, assistance with bathing, dressing, toileting, light housekeeping, medication reminders, transportation and much more. Independent Activities of Daily Living (IADLs) include going on doctors visits, meal preparation, shopping, household management and much more. Additionally, many older adults face the issue of being socially isolated because their ability to drive, walk and communicate are compromised by their illnesses. Children and spouses can feel a high degree of stress if this issue is not ameliorated by professional companion care.It is very important for discharge planners, patients and their family to identify, acknowledge and plan for non-medical home care for patients and their elderly spouses with chronic conditions such as Alzheimers, dementia, ALS and Parkinsons disease.Over 90% of the medical professionals in attendance at a recent continuing education seminar about caregiver stress reported that they would change their professional performance by both a) Making an effort to determine if the family members would be available to provide the home care that the patient needs; and b) Recommending that families use professional non-medical home caregivers if there is a need.So, when confronted with the problem of caring for an older adult, using a professional non-medical caregiver is an option that can enhance the lives and well-being of both family members and the older adult who needs extra care. Here are some examples of outcomes created by families who chose to use professional, non-medical caregivers:Martha arrived and the entire household spirit changed. Words cannot adequately convey the peace that Martha brought to Mum and the family as a whole.You dont know how much I needed you all. Thank you is not enough!Very personable service. The staff are very professional, courteous, and understood our needs. The help was outstanding and much needed and exceeded our expectations during a great time of stress.Editorial Note: This article was submitted by Jared Caplan, M.S./Administrator License #017091 with Home Care Assistance of Dallas and may be reached at 214-363-3400 or by email at jcaplan@homecareassistance.com. See add on page 101 & 105

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

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.

Everybody wants to be remembered.Remembered by someone. Remembered for something. Something theyaccomplished, a talent they had, avocation they achieved. Everyone hasunique stories to tell, momentoustimes to divulge, and bestow lessonslearned throughout their historiclifetime.Interviewing people that sharetheir stories is a humbling yetentertaining and delightful experience. Often people are hesitant andunwilling to share their life, thinkingits not important, its not interesting, its not entertaining.We, at Legacy for Family, knowdifferently because once the interview starts, theres a completeturnaround. People actually findthemselves excited, reflective,amused and take joy in reminiscingabout their life.Legacy for Family met with aformer nun that spent years teachingstudents in Costa Rica, a Navy Sailorwho served at Iwo Jima, an infantryman that bravely fought in WWIIunder Patton, a child of poor immigrants whose parents spent everyminute making sure she had an education, a woman who fell in love ather 12th birthday party to eventuallymarry that man, the love of her life,to name just a few. Romance, pain,intrigue, mischief, excitement andlove are all part of their narrative.How important is it to rememberthe past? Why does it make a difference? Does knowing the past make adifference in someone elses future?The definitive answer to that is YES!Imagine a star high school basketball player finding out his 5 1grandmother was a dominant basketball player on her high school team.Or take a college Political Sciencemajor realizing his grandmotherbumped elbows with John andRobert Kennedy while in the Senate.What great conversation starters thatcould help link generations!We believethat everyoneshould havethe opportunity to sharetheir storyand at Legacyfor Family, weprovide thatopportunity.Our hope isto connectgenerationsof the past with those in the present and future. Lets face it, weall love a great narrative, we craveentertainment, look at all the movieswe watch and books we read, whatbetter story than that of your family.After all, family is the gift that lastsforever.Editors Note: This article was submitted byBetty Giannasi. Betty is the owner of Legacyfor Family and may be reached at 847-338-3086 or by email at bagiannasi@gmail.com orlegacyforfamily@gmail.com; www.legacyforfamily.com.

To learn more about Utah Senior Care Advisors,CLICK HERE.Helping a loved one transition from their cherished home into an assisted living community can be a challenging experience to say the least. Companies are building communities all over the valley in anticipation of the Baby Boomer generation eventually coming of age to need assisted living accommodations. The Baby Boomer generation (1946-1964) are nostalgically defined as the children that were joyously conceived after the Allied Forces ending WWII.Working after school at my family assisted living communities, my best friends were the soldiers and mothers that raised the Boomers, these seniors were my residents and they each taught me something unique about embracing old age. The oldest of the Boomer population is currently eclipsing their early seventies, years away from any thought of the assisted living communities in their future.Many large assisted living companies have already taken advantage of building communities in anticipation of the aging Boomer population with the complete understanding that their resident population boom is still more than a few years away, especially with the average person living a longer, healthier lives than their parents. Black lung and exposure to radiation is less common every day Thanks to OSHA.The consolation for families in need of care for a loved one is knowing that the assisted living market is oversaturated with communities that need residents. Many communities are willing to cut deals, because most of them are competing for the same clients. Let me use my years of assisted living operations experience to advise your family. No other company has the hands on experience that I have. Other senior advisor companies have franchise owners associates with backgrounds in sales and marketing, not much direct care or management experience in an actual assisted living community. Experience makes a big, big difference. Allow me to personally help your family.

Written authorization to represent or act on another's behalf in private affairs, business, or some other legal matter, sometimes against the wishes of the other#listing_mgr{7 basic_search}#

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 we age, tooth loss, discoloration, and even tooth shape can affect the way you look and feel when you smile.Although your teeth are designed to last a lifetime when cared for properly, many people find that age-related imperfections of the teeth can cause them to look older than they are. Even worse, in some cases, tooth decay has been linked to larger dental and overall health issues such as heart disease. However, there is good news. In some dental practices, doctors have created specific protocols for seniors which assist in rejuvenating aging smiles. These dentists use procedures that can actually take years off your appearance and keep you healthy for years to come.Effects of Aging on Your TeethOver the years, night grinding, teeth clenching, gum disease, discoloring foods such as wine and chocolate, smoking, and lack of preventative care can have a negative effect on your appearance. The color, shape, and size of your teeth can add 5-10 years to your appearance. There is help for all of these issues from dentists who focus on anti-aging procedures such as: Porcelain crowns, inlays, and onlays Tooth-colored fillings Laser and gum reshaping Custom nightguards or invisible braces Dental implants to replace missing teeth Cosmetic denturesOlder adults often believe that its natural for their teeth to age as they age, but this is simply not true. There are so many ways to keep your young look and protect your body from disease with regular visits to your dentist or a visit to a dentist who focuses on anti-aging procedures. To find a dentist near you, look in this directory or online for a dentist who focuses on anti-aging dentistry.No matter what your age taking care of your teeth will help your overall health and well being for years to come.Editors Note: This article was submitted by Frederick Guerra, Jr., DMD of Guerra Dental. He may be reached at 719-362-0681

Medicare Parts A and B provide for home health, skilled nursing and therapies as well as skilled nursing and therapies in a Nursing Home for purposes of rehabilitation after a three-day hospital stay. These benefits have long been an important coverage under Medicare.Up until January 2013, Medicare has promoted to providers that Medicare would only pay the providers if the patient was improving his or her abilities as a result of these skilled services. This was counter to the law and Medicare's own rules and policies. As a result of a nationwide class action lawsuit which was approved by the court in January 2013, Medicare has agreed to educate the public and clarify the standards for coverage under Medicare. Under the new clarification Medicare will pay for skilled nursing services after a three-day hospital stay or for home health services if the therapies or skilled nursing services will help maintain the patient and avoid any further deterioration. Medicare will no longer require that the patient has the ability to improve but only that the skilled nursing service or physical therapy enables the patient to maintain their conditions or abilities.How does this affect you on a practical level? This means that the patients ability to stay in rehabilitation after a hospital stay will generally last longer, up to the 100 day maximum and thereby reducing continued rehospitalizations. It also means that patients with chronic conditions such as Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, MS, and ALS, can receive needed therapies enabling them to stay in the own home for longer. Previously these patients would be denied home health coverage for helpful physical therapies because it was viewed as the patient being unable to improve their circumstances and therefore the services were denied.Under the new maintenance standard these chronic care patients can receive these helpful therapies in their own home enabling them to stay in their home longer and healthier Over the next year, Medicare will revise their rules and engage in a public awareness campaign about this new standard for services. Seek help from your local elder law attorney on ways to best secure these additional services.Editors Note: Editors Note: This article was submitted by Lance M. McKinney, Elder Law Attorney, of Osterhout & McKinney, P.A., 239-939-4888.

If you or a loved one have concerns about memory loss or other unexplained changes in behavior, getting an expert opinion from your family doctor is an important first step in understanding how to proceed.Medicare offers a free annual wellness visit for those 65 and older where patients can request a brain health assessment. But if you dont see your family physician frequently, he or she may not know you well enough to determine if you are experiencing cognitive changes.To help, the Alzheimers Association has developed a list of five questions that individuals or family members can ask the doctor to help ensure that the visit is productive and patients get proper direction.Do I (or the patient) have any medical conditions that could increase my risk for developing Alzheimers disease or another form of dementia?Am I taking any medications that could be causing memory or cognitive-related symptoms?What tests could you perform that might rule out Alzheimers or dementia as a diagnosis?Are you aware of my family history particularly among immediate family (grandparents, parents or siblings) related to Alzheimers or dementia?Should I be concerned about (explain any changes in memory, focus, thinking or mood)?This is a good starting point for having a productive conversation with your family doctor, said Danelle Hubbard, director of Health Systems and Family Services for the Colorado Chapter of the Alzheimers Association. I would suggest bringing these questions in writing along with any other specific concerns or examples you may have. There can be a number of reasons behind memory loss and personality change, so its important to get guidance from your doctor as early as possible.For individuals who have immediate questions, the Alzheimers Association has a free, 24/7 Helpline staffed by trained professionals who can provide guidance and support: 800-272-3900. Information also is available on the Associations website: www.alz.org/co

To learn more aboutBrightStar Care,CLICK HERE.Every 70 seconds, someone develops Alzheimers and in 2006, there were 26.6 millions sufferers worldwide. The disease is predicted to affect 1 in 85 people by 2050. Thats why we are taking a closer look in our latest blog series to not only identify key symptom and the stages of Alzheimers but also to identify what family caregivers and loved ones can do for someone who is living with this disease.So what is Alzheimers Disease (AD)? Imagine losing your memory so severely you forget your name and the names of those you love. Alzheimers is the most common form of dementia, which is serious loss of cognitive ability in a previously unaffected person, beyond what may be expected from normal aging. There is no cure for Alzheimers, which worsens as it progresses and eventually leads to death. Most often, AD is diagnosed in people over the age of 65, but early-onset Alzheimers can occur much earlier.While AD is a difficult affliction which causes great stress on caregivers and families alike, here are some tips for caregivers during these difficult circumstances:Organize your efforts to provide care and support for a loved one with a free account onCare Together.Having a plan for getting through the day can help caregivers cope.Do the best you can, and remind yourself to take breaks.Ask the doctor any questions you have about AD.Find out what treatments might work best to alleviate symptoms or address behavior problems.Contact organizations such as the Alzheimers Association, http://www.alz.org, and the Alzheimers Disease Education and Referral (ADEAR) Center, http://www.nia.nih.gov/alzheimers, for more information about the disease, treatment options and caregiving resources.Some community groups may offer classes to teach caregiving, problem-solving and management skills.Find a support group where you can share your feelings and concerns.Online support groups make it possible for caregivers to receive support without having to leave home. The Alzheimers Association and other organizations sponsor support groups.Study your day to see if you can develop a routine that makes things go more smoothly.If there are times of the day when the person with AD is more cooperative, plan your routine to make the most of those moments.Consider using adult daycare orrespite careservices to ease the day-to-day demands of caregiving.Begin to plan for the future.This may include getting financial and legal documents in order, investigating long-term care options and determining what services are covered by health insurance and Medicare.

As we grow older, changes occur through OUT THE body. Parts wear down with use. Loss of essential vitamins and minerals, hormonal changes, habits and genetics all prove to be important factors with the way our bodies mature.As with any part of the body, your teeth and gums will respond to aging, depending on many factors. Ultimately, how you've treated yourself throughout the years can make a big difference! Things like good oral hygiene, follow up dental care and a healthy lifestyle can prolong your teeth and gums in a stable and functioning manner. Patients often ask me if certain dental conditions are caused by aging. Over time, age will typically cause the teeth to wear and darken. Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease and medications can complicate and add to dental issues and these may require a more aggressive approach to dental treatment and maintenance.In order to maintain a healthy lifestyle, a patient typically needs to be free from infection and able to chew foods, without pain. Modern day dentistry has enabled dentists and patients to reverse the years of wear and tear on your teeth and restore your smile that you remember from youth, or perhaps even better!Crowning and Bridging the Teeth:A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap preserve the functionality of damaged teeth. Crowns can be made out of porcelain (meaning some sort of dental ceramic), metal (a gold or other metal alloy), or a combination of both.Cerec One-Visit CrownsAn amazing new technology that provides tooth restoration in just one visit! With Cerecs CAD-CAM technology, the crown is made by a computer while you wait, thus eliminating the second appointment and the temporary crown. These Cerec crowns are milled out of pure ceramic.Dental Implants:A dental implant is an artificial tooth root that a periodontist places into your jaw. A small titanium shaft is surgically implanted into the bone and allowed to set. (The titanium is a metal known for its bio-compatibility and lightweight properties.) The bone grows around it forming a tight connection, which additionally slows or stops the bone loss that occurs when the root of a natural tooth is missing.These are just a few of the many cosmetic and restorative procedures used in improving ones dental health and beauty. To see a patient hold their head up high and smile is the best feeling... then you know you've done your job right!Please, contact our dental office if you have any questions about your dental needs or would like to schedule an appointment. Call us today (941) 484-8481.

Feelings of hurt, loneliness,and sadness are normal when someone you love dies. These feelings are part of the grieving process, and they are likely to surface at the beginning of the summer season with the arrival of Mothers Day, Memorial Day, and Fathers Day.Each persons grief is different, depending on how long the one you miss was in your life, the circumstances surrounding the death, and a variety of other factors.Everyonemoves through grief in their own way and on their own schedule.VITAS Healthcare, the leading hospice providerthroughout Florida and the US formore than 40 years, offersthese suggestions tohelpyoufind healthy pathways through your grief.Think of something you want that is available andmake a planto get it.Think of people who bring you happiness and call one of them.Take walks.Listen to your favorite music, sing, dance, or play your favorite musical instrument.Get involved in a craft or art project.Take a shower or a long, hot bath.Make a list of your strengths and spend at least an hour concentrating fully on appreciating yourself.Spend time with a pet.Think of something you would enjoy doing for someone elseand then do it!Forgivesomeone ormake a list of things you feel guilty about and forgive yourself. Consider how you can make amends.Read a good book.Plan a trip or an event you think you would enjoy.Think about enjoyable ways of relaxing. Choose one and do it!Make an appointment for a massagewhen its safe to do so.Begin something you have been putting off for a long time.Write down the funniest jokes you can remember.Make a list of things you are grateful for.Give something away.Plan a surprise for someone.Do breathing exercises for energy and calmness.Make your favorite meal.With vivid imagination, re-live an experience in your life that made you feel extremely loved. Lie down and relax. Close your eyes.Sign up for a phone-in or Zoom grief support group at VITAS.com/SupportGroupsIf your sadness turns into depression, and if your symptoms and feelings seem severe or continue longer than normal, call your doctor or consult with a clergy member, local therapist,or counselor who specializes in grief.By Bob Johnson, RN, general manager for VITAS Healthcare in Collier County- click for more information*Click Here for Original Blog Link*

Cancer is ideally treated by a multi-disciplinary team of oncologists, in addition, the team usually includes a pathologist, a diagnostic radiologist and an oncology nurse. The advantage of the team approach is that it combines the unique skill sets of several different disciplines into one consulting group, as cancer treatment frequently involves a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation.#listing_mgr{7 basic_search}#

A Will must be probated, therefore, making it available to the public.Are you curious what Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis or Elvis Presley did with their fortune? How they dispersed their assets? Shockingly, it is simple to find out how their fortune was divided up because both used a Last Will and Testament in their estate plan. A Will must be probated, therefore, making it available to the public. Probate is the legal process normally required after a persons death. Its purposes can include (amongst several others):Identifying, appraising and distributing the assets of the deceased to the intended beneficiaries or heirs.Providing a legal forum to challenge the validity of a Will.Notifying and paying creditors of the deceased.Even though probate can serve several purposes, people often vigilantly plan to avoid probate for many personal reasons. Reasons to Avoid ProbateNo privacy Your financial affairs will be made public. Your nosy next-door neighbor can go down to the courthouse and view all the documents filed with the court. Notice of the probate will be published in a local newspaper to alert all creditors.Lengthy Beneficiaries cannot receive assets until the probate process is concluded. The probate process can take months to years to be completed depending on multiple factors.Costly Professional fees and court costs can add up to a significant sum. Every dollar spent on probate reduces what is passed on to beneficiaries.Disputes The validity of a Will may be challenged by any interested person. This may potentially invalidate the Will in question.Two Ways to Avoid ProbateNot all assets must go through the probate process and some can immediately be passed on to beneficiaries. Common non-probate assets include, trust property, jointly owned property, designated beneficiaries of life insurance proceeds, and funds held in a payable on death account.As the creator of a Revocable Living Trust you can name yourself as the Trustee of the Trust and name someone close to you as the successor Trustee. The Trust, created and activated during your lifetime, will continue to be controlled by you and allows assets to be easily transferred in and out of the Trust. Upon your death or incapacity your successor Trustee will take over automatically.Editors Note: This article was submitted by Craig Dell, attorney at law. Mr. Dell may be reached at 801-783-3414 andwww.craigdellattorneys.com

Theres power in music therapy. Music provided by trained and certified music therapists is often incorporated into hospice care for its ability to deliver benefits to patients, their families and those who provide end-of-life care. VITAS Healthcare, the nations leading provider of end-of-life care, employs more than 40 music therapists nationally.MULTIPLE THERAPEUTIC BENEFITSMusic can relieve anxiety and agitation, lessen pain, boost mood, promote deeper breathing, and facilitate communication, movement and emotional expression. For hospice patients nearing the end of life, music therapists provide and create moments of joy, peace and calming memories.When offered to patients at the end of life, music therapy can work in combination with other healing solutions and services to address the physical, emotional, cognitive and social needs of hospice patients and their families.Another benefit is musics ability to give hospice patients a sense of choice and controltwo factors they often feel slipping away.OLD MEMORIES, NEW MEMORIESMusic therapists begin by assessing whether music therapy is appropriate for a patient. Sometimes, music can increase agitation and anxiety in patients with life-limiting illness. For many others, including patients who are unresponsive, music can trigger positive emotions and memories. As health declines, hearing is thought to be the last active sense, meaning that music can aid in relaxation and expression up until the moment of death.Music therapy can take many forms. It can include music-assisted relaxation, musical imagery, song writing, group sing-alongs, one-on-one singing, vocal and instrumental improvisation, movement or dance.Sometimes, a trained VITAS music therapist will use music as part of a patients life storyimprovising or writing new songs, recording or videotaping a patients musical interactions, even creating a songbook that serves as a tangible memento for surviving loved ones and family members.Far more than notes on sheet music or keys on a piano, music therapy is a valuable tool that provides physical, emotional and spiritual benefits to seriously ill patients as they approach the end of life.Editors Note: Article submitted by by Robert Johnson, General Manager of VITAS Healthcare in Collier County. For more information about hospice care or end-of-life care options, call VITAS Healthcare at 866.759.6695 or visit VITAS.com.

EXPLAINING NEURO/STROKE REHAB AND SHORT TERM/SKILLED NURSING CAREShort Term Rehab and Skilled Nursing Facilities Typically Provide The Following Types of CareTherapies for victims of brain or neurological trauma including rehabilitation from back surgery, spinal cord injury, stroke, Parkinsons Disease and multiple sclerosis. Patients sometimes spend months away from home and loved ones. Now, the transition from hospital to home can happen in just a matter of weeks.Comprehensive Neuro/Stroke Rehab begins with a thorough neurologic and physical evaluation of the individual. The evaluation should result in an individualized coordinated treatment plan geared to ensuring recovery and improvement with the skills needed for daily living and activity. A Neuro/Stroke Rehab program should incorporate intensive monitoring and therapies as recommended by consulting neurologist and therapists.Focusing on the transition between hospital and home requires a holistic approach to treatment planning. The treatment team evaluates the patients home and the other environments important to them, developing recommendations for adaptive equipment and the training of its use, and guidance/education for family members and caregivers. This person-centered approach focuses on adopting the environment to fit the person, thus making the person the most important member of the team process. In addition to Neuro/Stroke rehab mentioned above, short-term rehab facilities have comprehensive programs such as: Orthopedic (hip, knee, shoulder, amputations); Cardiac (heart surgery, valve replacement, heart transplant, heart attack, congestive heart failure, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD); General Medical (end-stage renal disease (ESRD), cancer recovery, medically deconditioned patients).Selecting a Short- Term Rehab or Skilled Nursing Care Facility can be a difficult process but there are many helpful guides available. The Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services publishes a rating system which evaluates every facility participating in the Medicare system. The system measures recent health inspections, nursing staff hours and clinical outcomes. You can find these ratings and more by visiting http://www.mediacre.gov/nursinghomecompare/search.htmlThe personal and professional care of most these facilities allows you and your loved ones to enjoy peace of mind.Editors note: This article was submitted by Notre Dame Convalescent Home- A CARING Place Between Hospital and Home Notre Dame Convalescent Homes, Inc.76 West Rocks Road, Norwalk, CT 06851203-847-5893email: www.ndch-sstv.orgwww.ndch-sstv.org

Everyone worries that long-term care costs from a stroke or major illness can deplete their life savings. What should you do? Most people don't like to think about the financial and emotional toll that can happen when a terrible illness occurs. Or about how they'll pay for it or what the effects will be for themselves and their loved ones. Many don't plan ahead.There are things that you can proactively do to prepare for long-term care expenses. Solutions range from purchasing long-term care insurance to engaging a qualified attorney to help you with a special type of estate plan designed to save as much of your assets and income as legally possible. If you set up your legal and financial affairs ahead of a major illness or stroke, chances are your plan will preserve that much more of your assets and income than you would have if you had waited.Your attorney will need a complete list of your current assets and income to help you plan. Gather copies of bank and brokerage statements, deeds and other documents, as well as a copy of your last two income tax returns. Also list all of your liabilities, such as home mortgages and car payments. From there, the attorney will review whether and how you might qualify for government benefits that can help pay for nursing expenses associated with serious illnesses and disabilities.Editors Note: This article was submitted by Michael B. Hill, Board Certified Wills, Trusts & Estate Planning Attorney. Contact him at www.sbshlaw.com or hill@sbshlaw.com. 2011 Michael B. Hill.

Home health care is provided by skilled medical professionals, such as registered nurses, physical and occupational therapists and medical social workers, and includes a wide range of services that are provided in your home to treat an illness or injury. The focus of home health care is to help you get better, regain your independence and become as self-sufficient as possible.Many times, home health care is less expensive, more convenient than and as effective as the care you would receive in a hospital or a skilled nursing facility. It often follows a doctors visit or a stay at a hospital or rehabilitation facility.According to Theresa Santoro, president and CEO of Ridgefield Visiting Nurse Association (RVNA), For Medicare beneficiaries, doctors orders are needed to initiate home health care, and you must be considered temporarily homebound. If your doctor or referring health care provider determines that you are a candidate for home health care, they should give you a list of agencies that offer these services and allow you to choose the one you would like to use.Home care services are the non-medical services that can help maintain your quality of life while living at home in a comfortable environment. Assistance can range from companionship to hands-on care, depending on the need. This can be accomplished by regular weekly visits or by a 24/7 live-in caregiver. Help can include assistance with dressing, bathing, mobility, feeding or meal preparation, medication reminders, light housekeeping, shopping and errands.Often non-medical home care services are the kind of personal assistance that allows a person to remain in their own home instead of relocating to a residential facility, Santoro says.Some home health care agencies can provide both medical care and non-medical home care services for their clients. Other agencies offer non-medical home care services exclusively. Both home health care and home care agencies have the goal of keeping you safe, comfortable and healthy at home.Editors Note: This article was submitted by Heather McGhie, director of Home Care by RVNA. She may be reached at 203-894-5000 or customercare@hcrvna.com.

Hospice care affirms the belief that it is important to make every moment of life as meaningful as possible, from the first days of a life-limiting illness to the last. Hospice care seeks to validate the quality of life rather than the quantity. It also provides compassion and dignity for both the patient and family members. Hospice focuses on relieving the symptoms of the illness, as well as managing pain, and providing emotional and spiritual support. Many consider hospice to be comfort care because hospice is designed to keep the patient as pain free as possible while they enjoy their remaining time with family and loved ones.Hospice is often misunderstood. A common belief is patients are giving up or choosing to end their life. Quite the contrary, hospice patients are electing to live every minute to its fullest, maintaining as much independence and access to family and friends as possible. Helping people understand the philosophy of hospice is part of the changing culture in long-term care. These services are intended to promote a purposeful life and dignity in death.Hospice care is for people who have a life expectancy of six months or less and have chosen to focus on palliative care, comfort, and relief from pain symptoms. Diagnoses commonly associated with hospice care may include, but are not limited to: Cancer, Cardiovascular Disease, Alzheimer's, Respiratory Disease, Liver/Renal Disease, and Neurological Disease. Also common are AIDS/HIV, Adult failure to thrive, Stroke and Coma.Services provided by Hospice vary depending on patient needs, but may include nursing care, medications, medical supplies and equipment related to the diagnosis, assistance with personal care, and 24 hour access to a Physician, Nurses and a Chaplain. In addition services include bereavement services and spiritual counseling. These services are fully covered by Medicare and Medicaid, and coverage is unlimited in length, and may be covered by many private insurances with no out-of-pocket expenses to the patient.Editors Note: Please call for additional information, volunteer opportunities, or to get involved with Culture Change in your community: Kimberly Ware, Administrator with Dignity Home Health & Hospice who may be reached at 801-934-6279 or by email at kware@dignityhlth.com

Americans across the country celebrate Veterans Day on November 11, a special day to salute the men and women who have bravely served our country in the military.These fellow Americans have made profound sacrifices in defense of freedom and they deserve our heartfelt thanks and appreciation. Honoring our nations Veterans includes supporting them throughout their entire lives, especially at the end.As our nation marks Veterans Day on November 11, Heart n Home Hospice wants to share its commitment to increase Veterans access to compassionate, high quality hospice care for those who are facing serious and life-limiting illness. As part of this commitment, Heart n Home Hospice is a part of an innovative program, We Honor Veterans, developed by the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization in collaboration with the Department of Veterans Affairs. Through We Honor Veterans, we are ensuring that our organization is equipped to address the unique needs of our nations Veterans.It surprises many Americans to learn that every day, 1,800 Veterans die. Thats more than 680,000 Veterans every year or 25 percent of all the people who die in this country annually. A generation of World War II and Korean War Veterans are facing end-of-life care decisions now, and they are quickly being followed by younger Vietnam War Veterans, many of whom are confronting serious illnesses at an even earlier age.The liberty that we, as US citizens, enjoy comes at a price paid by these valiant men and women. Let each of us make sure we do our part to recognize and support them throughout their lives.If you know a Veteran who is in need of the special care hospice brings to people facing serious and life-limiting illness, please reach out and help them learn more about the services that hospice can provide. Contact us at gohospice.com to learn more about the ways we support our nations heroes.To all our nations Veterans, thank you.

To learn more about Intermountain Homecare and Hospice,CLICK HERE.The question of how to help a friend or loved one is being asked more frequently given the abundant grief and loss were experiencing. We so want to help others, give comfort, or reduce pain, somehow, someway. And yet, the best answer is to start by not saying or doing anything. The best answer is to start byauthentically listening.What is authentic listening?Authentic listening is a mighty tool of caring and service.Undervalued, listening is the ultimate love language. Its quiet, slow, modest, and requires our time and single-minded attention. Maybe thats why its underused. Loud, showy, busyness is much more valued today with quick fixes and a plentitude of platitudes.Authentic listening is often the only thing needed to help someone.When someone listens to our experience and our emotions in a safe space, we feel truly loved and validated. Often, saying our problems out loud illuminates the illusive solutions and because these solutions are custom-made, they are embraced more enthusiastically than to advice given by others.Authentic listening provides safe space.The listener lends themselves to us for a while, giving us their full attention, without distraction. Their purpose is to validate, not judge; understand, not fix. Hesitating at first, we relax into speaking truth as the person just listens without interruptions, unnecessary questions, or commentary.Authentic listening is a conscientious decision made in the moment.It doesnt happen by accident because it requires us to deliberately turn down the noise of our thoughts, questions, and advice while turning up our sensitivity to what this person is saying and feeling. Distractionsare turned off and quiet patience is turned on.Authentic listening is a magical experience.Consider the last time you experienced authentic listening, as the listener or the recipient. Youll remember it because they are rare, special moments. There is a heart-to-heart connection that can be transformative for both people. Given how good it feels and how well it works, we have to wonder why we dont make it happen more often.How do I listen authentically?Authentic listening uses these phrases:Tell me moreThis must be really hardI want to make sure I understandIs this what youre sayingWhat has this been like for youAuthentic listening avoids these phrases:I understand how you feelWhen that happened to me, IWhat you need to do is justHave you triedJust look on the bright sideAuthentic listening takes practice and it's worth it.Authentic listening doesnt come easily and requires intentional practice. The result is having the most precious gift you can give to others when there are no words to be said. And from your listening may come a very customized answer of what service can be done.Today, make a decision to authentically listen to one person close to you. Researchers find most of us listen for about 18 seconds before interrupting and taking over the conversation. Try to stretch that to 30 seconds or even a full minute. Observe what happens when you take your turn to truly listen before talking.

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

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

Do You Know Which People Foods Are Dangerous For Pets?There are some common foods that we enjoy but should not share with our cats and dogs:Alcohol will cause vomiting, diarrhea, decreased coordination, even deathAvocado vomiting and diarrheaChocolate/Coffee/Caffeine vomiting, diarrhea, heart arrhythmia, deathDairy Milk - adult animals lack the enzyme to digest it, resulting in diarrheaFatty and Spicy Foods can cause inflammation of the pancreas (painful and potentially fatal)Grapes & Raisins kidney failureMacadamia Nuts weakness, depression, vomitingOnion, Garlic, Chives red blood cell damage. Cats are especially sensitiveRaw Meat, Bones, Eggs risk of transmission of bacteria; diarrheaXylitol (artificial sweetener found in sugar-free gum and mints) causes life-threatening hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) and liver failureYeast Dough rising dough can release significant amounts of gas in stomach and intestines, potentially leading to rupture Some of these, like chocolate, are well known to be problematic. Others on the list are lesser known to most people. Before offering meat baby food to cats make sure it does not contain onion powder. Chocolate, grapes, and raisins are tantalizing to dogs (and some cats) but are especially toxic. Cats and dogs are drawn to sweet or minty smells and tastes. Xylitol-containing gums and candy should not be consumed in pet-owning households.For more information on foods toxic to pets as well as toxic plants and drugs (both prescription and over-the-counter), ask your veterinarian or investigate www.aspca.org/pet-care/poison-control. To be safe, never medicate your pet at home without a prescription or recommendation from your veterinarian.This article was submitted by Dr. Lori Lowery, owner of ComforVet, LLC, a veterinary house call service. She can be reached at 303-630-9730 or by email at info@comforvet.com.

Health literacy encompasses the ability to critically think about health information, complete basic math problems, fill out forms and interact with health care staff in order to make informed, comprehensive decisions about your health. Unfortunately, the 2003 National Assessment of Adult Literacy found only 3 percent of adults over the age of 65 had proficient health literacy scores. And these literacy problems are not always clear cut or obvious. Their findings indicated: 71 percent of adults older than age 60 had difficulty in using print materials in prose form 80 percent had difficulty using documents such as forms or charts 68 percent had difficulty with quantitative tasksThis difficulty only gets worse for older adults with memory or cognitive problems. For some, it may be difficult or embarrassing to admit confusion about something as important and personal as health. For others, they may not be aware of what they dont know. Although most of the literature around National Health Literacy Month is geared towards awareness for health care workers, there are tools to taking responsibility for knowledge about your health. If you are confused at doctors office, here are some suggestions for improving your health literacy: Repeat back the instructions in your doctor gives you in own words to make sure no miscommunication has occurred Ask questions! There is no such thing as a stupid question when it comes to your health. Write down instructions and keep them posted where you can see them every day If verbal instructions dont make sense, ask for pamphlets or written instructions If reading is difficult, have your doctor demonstrate instructions for you Document relevant symptoms or occurrences related to your health condition if it happens in between doctor appointments and bring it up at your next appointment so your doctor can have accurate information Bring along a family member if youre feeling uneasy about an appointment or have any confusion about your diagnosis or treatment. They may be able to help you in understanding or think of questions that help you gain control of your health.This article was submitted by Stacey Rupolo; ComForCare of Lower Fairfield County. For additional information please contact Nicol Rupolo 203-705-0220 or nicol@comforcare.comSee ad on page 82.

Hearing loss the subject can invoke a wide spectrum of reactions. From selective hearing jokes to a real burden on relationships, working in the Hearing Healthcare field exposes you to them all. But how serious is hearing loss and how important is the need to treat it? There is more and more research being done in this area, and the results are coming in. The results show a direct link between hearing health and brain health. Its no secret the two are connected. For years, audiologists and hearing instrument specialists have been coaching hearing aid wearers that the brain needs to adapt to the new sounds (sounds you may not have heard in your hearing impaired state) that a hearing aid wearer will experience.One of the studies, conducted by Johns Hopkins and the National Institute on Aging in 2011, revealed that participants who had moderate or severe hearing loss were more likely to develop cognitive issues including dementia. The study did not immediately determine whether treating the loss with hearing aids or cochlear implants would result in a different outcome, but a large majority of researchers believe it would. One reason being the findings of a 2013 Johns Hopkins study that links auditory deprivation (the absence or reduction of sound signals reaching the brain) to cognitive decline. And thats not all, other effects of hearing loss can include depression, isolation, reduced social activity, and an increase in stress.So listen up! While its not definitive that hearing aids can prevent dementia, it is definitive that they improve brain stimulation, improve communication, and assist in social situations. If you suspect that you or someone you care about has a hearing loss, its time to get it checked out. You may find out youve been missing more than you think.This article was submitted by Ryan Oberholtzer, Hearing Instrument Specialist with Darrell M. Sipe Opticians and Hearing Aids.

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.

People often ask the question; Is it Alzheimer's or is it Dementia? The fact is; Dementia is the name that refers to all types of memory loss diseases, including Alzheimer's disease. In other words, Alzheimer's disease is a type of Dementia, the same as Vascular Dementia, Picks disease, Alcohol dementia, Lewy Body Disease, and the many other diseases that cause memory loss. Long ago, before these types of dementias had a name, it wasn't uncommon to hear families talk about their senile old grandma who just got crazy when she got old. Grandma probably suffered from one of these diseases and went undiagnosed and untreated. Fortunately, people started understanding the need for specialized care. Both Assisted Living and Memory Care communities started coming around. Families are usually distressed and at wits end by the time they realize there is help out there. Many people have a hard time moving a parent or loved one into a community. They feel an overwhelming amount of guilt. But families are usually surprised and relieved when they see their loved ones doing well in an environment that is tailored to their needs. Its usually not long before grandma is engaging in activities, both group and individual. She's eating nutritious meals, having personal care done by caregivers that specialize in dementia. These diseases don't reverse, so grandma will continue with this journey, but she will be in good hands and take each day as it comes. Often the families or caregivers say they wish they had done this sooner, but they had no idea that there were places available where grandma could still have a quality life. Here are some common tips when the time comes to look into getting help. First understand that the people caring for the person with dementia need help, guidance and reassurance as well. When visiting communities, look for happy employees that are engaged with the residents. Ensure the community is secure with outdoor spaces that allow residents to wander safely. Does it have the look and feel of a home? Are their odors? A Steinberg study shows that smaller homes, or clusters are the most desirable environment. Avoiding too much stimulation or confusion. And finally; does it feel good; is it right for you and your family? Being a caregiver for your loved one 24/7 can become exhausting and overwhelming. Just know you don't have to go through it alone. There are many free resources available to help you along the way. If you need help finding resources, give us a call and we will be happy to assist you. Authors Note: Written by JoAnne Mohrland/Executive Director Regency Columbia Village 208-344-2954

Wound carerefers to specific types of treatment forpressure sores, skin ulcers and other wounds that break the Skin.Most Home Health Agencies and Skilled Nursing Facilities will provide wound care services to their clients. Some agencies may employ specialty nurses to provide and instruct in care specifically for ostomy patients and for more complicated wounds.#listing_mgr{1 basic_search}##listing_mgr{8 basic_search}#

Do you have an ongoing health condition like high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, stroke, arthritis, cancer, asthma, emphysema, depression, multiple sclerosis, high cholesterol or kidney disease?Do you feel frustrated about not only managing your condition but dealing with the impact it has on your life and emotions?Youre not alone. About 80% of older adults have one chronic health condition and 68% have at least two. Many of them find it challenging to manage their symptoms and condition. They may have a sense of hopelessness or frustration at not being able to live their lives as they would like to.Take Charge of Your Health and Take Charge of Your Diabetes offer a series of free workshops for people who would like to learn skills and tools to manage their health conditions. Trained leaders guide the workshops, which include topics such as action planning, problem solving, decision making, stress management, talking with your doctor or health professional, dealing with emotions and depression, physical activity and healthy eating.The workshops are also an opportunity for participants to share the impact their conditions have on their lives and emotions with others who have similar concerns and problems.People who have completed Take Charge workshops report that learning how to manage their chronic disease symptoms has improved their quality of life and increased their confidence. Reports of participants in similar programs show that a year later they reported improvement in communication with health care providers and medication compliance, less pain and depression and improved stress management.Find a Workshop Take Charge of Your Health and Take Charge of Your Diabetes workshops are offered in English and Spanish in community settings throughout the area. For more information and to find a workshop near you, visit www.ilpathwaystohealth.org and click on Programs or call the Take Charge Team at AgeOptions, (800)699-9043.Take Charge of Your Health is a program of AgeOptions, the Area Agency on Aging of suburban Cook County. It was originally developed by Stanford University.Editors Note: Submitted by AgeOptions: (708)383-0258; ageoptions.org

So what is this new twist all about?Starting January 2010, a change in the law makes it easier to save on Medicare Drug Plan Costs. More Medicare beneficiaries could qualify for Extra Help with their Medicare prescription drug plan costs because some things no longer count as income and resources.Anyone who has Medicare can get Medicare Part D prescription drug coverage. Some people with limited income and resources are eligible for Extra Help to pay for the costs---monthly premiums, annual deductibles, and prescription drug co-payments---related to a Medicare prescription drug plan.To qualify for Extra Help:You must reside in one of the 50 states or the District of Columbia.Your resources must be limited to $12,510 for an individual or $25,010 for a married couple living together.Resources include such things as bank accounts, stocks, and bonds. Wedo not count your house and car as resources; andYour annual income must be limited to $16,245 for an individual or $21,855 for a married couple living together.Even if your annual income is higher, you still may be able to get some help. Some examples where your income may be higher are if you or your spouse:Support other family members who live with you;Have earnings from work; orLive in Alaska or Hawaii.Beginning January 1, 2010 when determining your eligibility for Extra Help:We will no longer count as a resource any life insurance policy: andWe will no longer count as income the help you receive regularly from someone else to pay your household expensesfood, mortgage, rent, heating fuel or gas, electricity, water, and property taxes.What Else Do I Need to Know?If you already receive Extra Help, you will not need to reapply in 2010. Social Security will check to see if you are entitled to any additional Extra Help because we no longer count your life insurance or help with household expenses.Beginning January 1, 2010, when you file your application for Extra Help, you also can start your application process for the Medicare Savings Programsstate programs that provide help with other Medicare costs. Social Security will send information to your state unless you tell us not to on the Extra Help application. Your state will contact you to help you apply for a Medicare Savings Program.These Medicare Savings Programs help people with limited income and resources pay for their Medicare expenses. The Medicare Savings Programs help pay for your Medicare Part B (medical insurance) premiums. For some people, the Medicare Savings Programs also may pay for Medicare Part A (hospital insurance) premiums, if any, and Part A and Part B deductibles and co-payments.How Do I Apply for Extra Help?Its easy to apply for Extra Help. You can apply at our website athttps://secure.ssa.gov/apps6z/i1020/main.html. You can also apply by calling Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 or by visiting your local Social Security office.How long has been since youve done The Twist or seen Chubby Checker? When you visit our website at www.socialsecurity.gov, you can watch his twist video and hear him explain how the new twist in the law works.This article was submitted by Rose Fortune, Social Security Public Affairs Specialist in Colorado Springs, CO

To learn more aboutAseracare Hospice, CLICK HEREHospice volunteers are a special group of people that give of their time and talents to help patients and their families. They are available to visit with you and help run errands. They can also assist with daily activities and may read, sing, write letters, or just reminisce with you and your loved ones. Their support enhances the quality of life for patients and helps relieve some of the demands that are often placed on caregivers.

Good news for seniors facing hip replacement: A much better outcome with computer and robotic-aided surgery. Why is the outcome better? Because the orthopedic surgeon can better align new hip components with computers and a robotic arm than by older methods using an alignment rod.Not all of us are built the same. When laying on the operating table, our hip may not be aligned as it would be when standing or going about activities of daily living. How can the surgeon know this? If there was a map or picture of the pelvis in normal everyday position, it could be compared to how the hip is aligned on the operating table. With this comparison, and measuring the difference in the patients position, the surgeon could determine the best place for new hip components. This is where computer and robotic- aided surgery can help.Heres how it works: The new system used a CT scan before surgery to map the patients anatomy in small increments, in three dimensions. These measurements are fed into computer software that assists the surgeon in the exact placement of new hip components. This improves longevity, stability, rotation, and other factors affecting the patients outcome. During surgery, when its time to place the cup into the pelvis, the computer guides a robotic arm to assist the surgeon in placing it exactlywhere it need to be for that patient, adjusting placement based on measurements taken before surgery. All of this results in the ideal hip replacement for the best outcome possible.In earlier generations, a hospital stay of several weeks was needed and the new hip joint would not last as long as current-day replacements. Now, with computer-aided and minimally invasive surgery, a hospital stay of two to four days is normal and the new hip may last thirty years. Most important is the patients comfort with the new hip; the better the fit, the more comfortable the patient.Editors note: For further information contact an Orthopaedic Surgeon listed in this resource directory.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, every year one in three adults over the age of 65 falls and 2 million are treated in the emergency room for fall-related injuries. Knowing the risk factors for falling is the first step in preventing an incident. The most common risk factors include: a history of previous falls, balance impairment, gait abnormalities, dizziness, reduced muscle strength and flexibility, visual impairment, medications, advanced age, peripheral neuropathy and recent hospital discharge. As we age, falling becomes of greater concern, however, it is not an inevitable part of aging. The following steps can be taken to help significantly reduce the risk.Meet with your doctor:Have a discussion with your doctor about your medications. Are there any that can cause dizziness, drowsiness or cognitive impairment? These may need to be discontinued or dosing may need to be modified.Keep moving: Many older adults lose their sense of balance or experience a decreased level of coordination, flexibility and muscle strength. With your doctors approval, consider activities such as walking, water workouts or tai chi. There are also exercise programs designed to specifically target strength, balance and flexibility. Physical therapy is advised after a recent hospitalization or while recovering from an injury or surgery.See your podiatrist: There are multiple foot and ankle conditions that can compromise balance during gait. Bunions and hammer toes can limit the ability to use your toes to purchase the ground and maintain balance. Calluses and corns or peripheral neuropathy can decrease tactile sensitivity, making it difficult to feel the floor under your feet. A podiatrist may be able to help reduce the risk due to these conditions.Wear sturdy shoes: Wearing slippers, socks or being barefoot has consistently been associated with an increased risk of falling. However, not all shoes are protective for falls. Avoid wearing high heels, flimsy shoes, shoes without adequate fixation (laces, straps, or buckles) and shoes with smooth tread.Have your vision checked: Older adults should have their eyes examined every year to evaluate for cataracts, retinopathy, glaucoma and other forms of visual impairment. Those with contact lenses or glasses should have the strength of their prescriptions confirmed and changed if necessary.Safety in the home: Remove fall hazards that could be tripped over and install better lighting and handrails where appropriate.Editors Note: This article was submitted by Dr. Kate Johnson, DPM. Dr. Johnson is a podiatrist at A Step Ahead Foot and Ankle Center and practices in Loveland, Fort Collins and Cheyenne. She may be reached at 970-493 - 4660.

There is something that happens when a dog enters a room. Strangers suddenly want to share stories, laughter and smiles fill an emptiness, and a camaraderie instantly develops amongst people who are drawn together by the dogs presence. As weve visited hospitals, Ive seen how our therapy dogs can literally stop a bustling group of doctors and nurses in a busy corridor, as they stoop to meet and pet one of our dogs. In senior communities, weve seen residents who may often spend time in their rooms, come out to socialize. Some who are known to never be vocal, suddenly utter some words. Others who eagerly wait on their floor for the visits because the calendar shows the dog is coming that day.There is power in the presence of a therapy dog, beyond such anecdotal stories, which are supported by empirical research and statistics.A groundbreaking study presented in November 2009 found that adults recovering from total joint-replacement surgery and receiving visits from therapy dogs needed 50% less pain medications than those not receiving therapy dog visits (Plunkett 2009). Past research has shown that interactions with a dog can decrease heart rate and blood pressure (Steed & Smith 2002). Cases have been cited where the use of dogs with seniors can increase mental stimulation and social interaction (Buettner & Martindale 2008), elevate positive mood levels (Lutwack-Bloom, Wijewickrama, & Smith 2005), and reduce loneliness (Banks & Banks 2005). These beneficial effects have also been documented with those affected with Alzheimers Disease (Buttram, D. 2004).So what exactly is a therapy dog? A therapy dog is trained to give affection and to comfort people around them. They must be friendly, patient, gentle, and love human contact with both strangers as well as with those familiar to them. Whether it is a motorized wheelchair whizzing by or a confused resident yelling down the hall in an Alzheimers community, a therapy dog should be able to walk into all sorts of unpredictable settings, remain calm and display good behavior. Though some of these skills come from training, a large part of what makes a therapy dog is the dogs temperament and personality. These dogs may visit hospitals, senior communities, facilities or private homes. The goal is to connect the person with such a dog, thereby resulting in a plethora of positive side effects.There is no doubt that the human-dog connection is powerful. Dogs are loyal companions that shower us with unconditional love. There is no judgment and no expectation except to want to be your lovable friend. As the increased use of therapy dogs makes inroads into the medical community, it is my hope that therapy animals will be seen as an integral component of a persons recovery process, care plan and overall well being. Weve seen firsthand how therapy dogs enable seniors to gain a sense of acceptance, self confidence, and comfort. Weve seen how these benefits can often surpass even those that come from the use of prescribed medications a priceless value that will hopefully become a standard care for seniors.Editors Note: References for this article are on file. The article was submitted by Susan Oh, Owner of OHomeCare, providing non-medical home care and therapy dog services throughout Denver Metro. She can be reached at 303-350-3085 or by email at susan@ohomecare.com

Spending months at a time in hospice is not at all uncommon, an expert tells PEOPLE, two months after President Carter's family confirmed that he had stopped receiving medical intervention.News that former President Jimmy Carter would begin receiving hospice care came in late February, with The Carter Center announcing in a statement that Carter had "decided to spend his remaining time at home with his family and receive hospice care instead of additional medical intervention."Now more than two months later, experts clarify that spending months at a time in hospice while not always the case is not at all uncommon."A misconception is that the average length of stay in hospice is for the last several days of someone's life," explains Jonathan Fleece, president and CEO of Empath Health, one of the largest not-for-profit hospice organizations in the country. "The average length of stay nationally is in the 60- to 70-day range."Fleece adds that while many think of hospice as 24/7 care, it all depends on a patient's own situation."A lot of hospice care is not 24/7. It's in and out of the home and working with the family and caregiver to be able to support their loved one," he says. "So we teach them a lot of different ways to help, whether it's helping with bathing or administering medication or keeping them comfortable."Fleece, who co-authored the book, The New Health Age: The Future of Health Care in America, notes that hospice was made eligible for Medicare reimbursement under the Tax Equity and Fiscal Responsibility Act of 1982 which was passed into law under Carter himself."I truly believe that the former president wanted to make this part of the American conversation," Fleece said.As Fleece explains, hospice care isn't only meant for those at their end of life, but for their family members, as well."Hospice also provides caregivers and families the resources they need," he says.That includes guiding family members through the grief and bereavement process, including the period of "anticipatory grief," in which the family and patient know that death is coming.Hospice care can also include things like veteran's programs (Carter, being a veteran, would likely be provided with a pinning ceremony, in which a decorated soldier administers a flag with military honors).Hospice also, of course, provides full medical care, as well as spirituality support. Some programs even cover things like Reiki and music therapy."We hear all the time from families and patients, 'I wish someone had explained the scale and depth and breadth of what hospice can bring sooner.'"Fleece points to research that substantiates the idea that most people, when asked, say they don't want to die in a nursing home or a hospital bed. Instead, they want to be at home, surrounded by family, loved ones and, if spiritual, their spiritual advisers and leaders."One component to hospice is that the aggressive phase of treating a serious, advanced, terminal illness subsides and it transitions into supportive care," he says."Nobody truly knows the timetable of [death] and while we can still treat symptoms, we specialize in taking away the suffering the physical toll of suffering and the anxiety and sleeplessness and the emotional and spiritual side, too."

Retirement Communities typically offer Studio, 1 BR or 2 BR rental apartments with full kitchens, and private baths. Services can include meal plans, transportation, wellness clinics, housekeeping, laundry and maintenance. Amenities can be abundant and may include formal libraries, computer stations, swimming pools, gardens, indoor/outdoor bar areas and other social gathering spaces. Rates are monthly and based upon size, location and amenities offered.#listing_mgr{1 basic_search}#

Rides to shopping, appointments and other outings. If you do not have family living nearby, you may consider having a caregiver or home care aide provide you with transportation when needed. Skilled Nursing Communities offer rides to and from scheduled doctor appointments, and most Senior Centers also provide transportation to the center.#listing_mgr{7 basic_search}##listing_mgr{8 basic_search}##listing_mgr{1 basic_search}#

We live in a world where driving and independence seem to go hand in hand. Yet for most indi-viduals, there comes a time when driving may no longer be safe. York County has seen a re-cent increase in the percentage of motor vehicle accidents where the driver is an older adult.Our physical abilities, reaction times, vision and hearing change as we age. That doesnt mean that we cant continue to do things that are important to us and remain actively connected to our community.The York County Center for Traffic Safety and rabbittransit have partnered to launch a new safety campaign focused on transitioning York County residents age 50+ from driving their own vehicles to using rabbittransit services and other alternative transportation options. The goal is to provide tools for older adults to transition so they can stay active in their community and Live Fully, Travel Safely.Funded in part through a grant from the York County Community Foundations Hahn Home Fund for Embracing Aging, the two organizations will be implementing a public awareness campaign and expanding rabbittransits Travel Training program to include volunteers.For seniors who are not comfortable or who do not know how to ride public transporta-tion, the Travel Training program helps make the connection. Travel Trainers are available to work with individuals to register and even go along on the first ride. The Travel Training is also available for groups; board a bus, go for a ride, help with registration, and provide information on all available transportation options in our community. Interested in becoming a Volunteer Travel Trainer? Contact Sherry Welsh at 717-849-0731.In Pennsylvania, we are fortunate that transportation for those age 65+ is supported by the PA Lottery. Adults 65+ ride free of charge on rabbittransit buses, and pay only a small co-pay to use the door to door shared ride system. Living well in our community should not depend on owning a car. When it is time to give up the keys, it doesnt mean giving up our independ-ence. More than 8,000 people depend on rabbittransit each day to get to work, medical facili-ties, school and other life-sustaining activities you can too!Editors Note: This article was submitted by Richard Farr, the Executive Director of rabbittransit in York, PA. Rabbittransit provides transportation in Adams, Cumberland, Franklin, Perry and York counties. For more information, please visit www.3p-ride.com.

Its no secret being a caregiver is hard work. It harder than anything you may do. Many of us know at least one person who has been, or currently is, a caregiver. It can sometimes feel draining and as if youre alone and isolated so it's important to maintain your own vitality.There are over 44 million Americans who provide unpaid care to an older adult or someone with disabilities.Did you know: About 75% of caregivers are women Most are middle-aged 34% are age 65 or older 59% also have jobs in addition to caring for someoneCaregivers are an important part of society so making sure each caregiver cares for themselves is important. With the rising cost of healthcare, there is an increase in families taking on the task of caregiving for parents and other loved ones. One of the greatest treats is finding activities that you are your family member can do together: Check local listings for no-cost or low-cost events you can attend (if your loved one is able to) Make a list of favorite TV shows and just choose a few to watch each day Get books from the library that youll both love and have your own Reading Club Go to a matinee movie Visit a craft store, make crafts together and donate them to charity Check colleges, religious organizations, community centers and senior centers for activities and free classes Do chair exercises or go for a short walk Plant flowers or a small garden Join a senior center, choir, other organizations or volunteer togetherRemember to set aside time just for you thats important. Go out to dinner with family or friends at least once a week. You deserve it! Ask another family member to be the caregiver while you have your date nights. Think about writing a goal or mission for yourself its a great way to say what you believe and who you are as a caregiver and share it.Although challenging, caregiving also has many rewards: It gives you a feeling of giving back to a loved one Caregiving can lead to a stronger relationship with the person receiving the care You appreciate life more and feel better about yourselfKeep your sense of humor. Laugh with the one you love and make sure you set aside time for YOU!__________________________________Editors Note: This article was contributed by Sandy Sferrella-Taylor, Public Relations Manager at Visiting Angels of Lancaster, Hanover and York.

To learn more aboutAdult & Community Enrichment (ACE), Click Here.THEOTHERSPORT OF KINGSIf youre bored with golf, or tennis elbow has you sidelined from the courts, shove those clubs and rackets into the back of the closet and try Lawn Bowling. Its different, fun, sociable, and good outdoor exercise.Plus, its good for you! Lawn Bowling is a low-impact form of exercise that improves coordination and balance, as well as self-esteem and confidence. The Sarasota Lawn Bowling Club (see Resources) offers free lessons for beginners, too!How to PlayLawn Bowling is played on either a flat or slightly convex green, divided into eight lanes called rinks. Play can be in singles or teams, with 2, 3, or 4 people on a team. The first person to play rolls a small white ball, about the size of a billiard ball (called the jack) onto the green at least 21 meters toward the end. The jack is centered on the rink, then successive players roll bowls balls about 11-13 cm in diameter trying to come as close as possible to the jack. Tape measures are essential for scoring!History of Lawn BowlingLawn Bowling is not exactly the sport of kings, but it comes close! It was banned byafew successive kings of England in the 14thand 15thcenturies because it competed with archery, which was essential to the national defense, but it eventually became a favored pastime of noblemen, who graciously allowed commoners to bowl on Christmas Day. Royal estates were all fitted out with bowling greens. Anne Boleyn enjoyed bowling, as did the first Elizabeth and, reportedly, even Queen Victoria!Bowling may have been banned at times in England, but it was never outlawed in Scotland which, of course, never considered itself part of Britain in the first place! In fact, Scotland is still considered to be the home of the modern game of Lawn Bowling. There may be more bowling greens in Scotland today than there are golf courses and there are even indoor greens, so that enthusiasts can play during the cold winter months.Lawn Bowling is an international pastime as well; it is played in more than 40 countries.Forms of Lawn Bowling date to ancient times. Archeologists of ancient Greece and Rome have recorded paintings on earthenware depicting people tossing stone balls and measuring the distance. The sport probably spread to Europewith the help ofRoman soldiers or sailors. Abiography of Thomas Becket refers to young men playing at bowls with stone balls. The oldest and longest surviving bowling green is at Southampton, which was established in 1299.Bowling in AmericaThere is evidence that Lawn Bowling was played by early colonists in America in the 1600s. George Washington was apparently an avid bowler and kept a green in good shape at Mount Vernon before the Revolutionary War. However, they were not the first: Archeologists have found stone balls (now resting in a Vancouver, BC museum) indicating that Native Americans played a gamesimilar toLawn Bowling centuries before.According to sedlawnbowls.org,the game was revived in the U.S. in 1879 with the opening of a Lawn Bowling club in New Jersey. Soon others followed.In Florida, the St. Petersburg LawnBowling Club is the oldest formally organized club in Florida and tenth in the nation. Its clubhouseis on the U.S. Register of Historic Places.The invention of the lawnmower in 1830hadpaved the way forthe smoothgreens, established rules of play, andmodern customs that helped define the way the game is played today. Some customs have relaxed a bit: For instance, traditional attire is all white, and some tournament players still adhere to that standard, but for regular play, you just wear whats comfortable, though remember to use sun protection! Also, the balls (called bowls) used to be made fromlignum vitae, a dense wood, which led to the term woods for bowls, but now they are routinely made from ahard compositetype of plastic.Interesting Side Note!Bias is a technical term that was applied to balls made with a greater weight on one side than the other. It was first used in 1560, and bias would make the ball curve toward one side when thrown. This practice is now illegal, but according to etymonline.com, this was the first use of the term bias to mean one-sided in the figurative or legal sense that we use it today, as leaning to one side mentally.ResourcesSarasota Lawn Bowling Club: How to Lawn Bowlhttp://www.sarasotalawnbowlingclub.com/?page_id=400Bowls USA, Southeast Division: History of Lawn Bowlshttp://sedlawnbowls.org/history-of-lawn-bowls/Etymonline: Biashttps://www.etymonline.com/search?q=biasWritten by Patricia Rockwood, Instructor and Staff Writer, Adult & Community Enrichment (ACE), Suncoast Technical College, Sarasota County District Schools, ace-sarasota.com, (941) 361-6590. For class info, please call us or visit our website.

Did you know that a Senior Citizens mental, or behavioral, health has positive or negative effects on their physical health? Whether its pain issues, cardiovascular health or some other medical conditions, maintaining good behavioral health can significantly improve recovery time from illness and continued well-being. Just as specific treatments are given for physical injury, specific mental health programs are designed for seniors; its important to get the appropriate type of treatment for geriatric behavioral health.Sometimes a seniors behavioral health issues may be addressed on an outpatient basis based on what the doctor orders. Outpatient programs may be primarily based on group therapy. During group therapy, licensed health professionals lead the group by setting appropriate topics for group discussion and encourage members of the group to participate. Group therapy is effective because a participant interacts with others in a structured setting that promotes a better understanding of geriatric behavioral health issues. Seniors share their thoughts and experiences, learning from each other with the guidance of the group leader. Social interaction helps the senior to talk and socialize with other seniors who may have similar experiences. In addition to group therapy, the senior may also receive individual, family or marital therapy if ordered by the doctor. Sometimes these Outpatient Programs can meet a seniors behavioral health needs without requiring more intensive care such as hospitalization.If a senior citizens behavioral health needs cannot be met on an outpatient basis, more intensive services such as acute geriatric behavioral health treatment in a hospital are available. Each patient has a goal oriented plan detailing how the hospital, patient and family will work together to reach treatment goals, resulting in discharge from the hospital. A senior may need this type of treatment due to thoughts of self-harm, not wanting to live, depression, anxiety, or medication management issues. One of the greatest benefits of acute in-patient care is the 24 hour controlled environment while behavioral health issues are addressed.How does someone go about requesting behavioral health care? The first step is a phone call to a geriatric behavioral health provider, and an assessment by a healthcare professional. Strict laws regarding rights to privacy protect all conversations and treatment by behavioral health professionals and health care facilities. Your confidentiality is protected by law, so if you feel that you or a loved one may benefit from these services call a geriatric behavioral health provider today.

To learn more about Highland Glen - MBK,CLICK HERE.Its American Heart Month! A great time to join the battle against heart disease and celebrate our bodies most important muscle the heart! Here are five ways you can keep the beat and stay heart healthy this month and all year long.1. Wear RedAccording to the American Heart Association, heart disease claims the lives of 1 in 3 women. That staggering statistic boils down the fact that heart disease is more fatal to women than all forms of cancer, accidents and diabetes combined. To shed light on the importance of heart health, the first Friday of February is Wear Red Day. To help fight to end heart disease, consider having your own Red Day and donating to the American Heart Association to support research and heart disease awareness.2. Eat Heart HealthyFruits, vegetables and legumes contain flavonoids (a group of phytonutrients or plant chemicals) that offer anti-inflammatory and immune system benefits, as well as being associated with cancer, neurodegenerative and cardiovascular disease prevention. At MBK Senior Living communities, our culinary team offers a diverse daily menu of delicious and heart healthy options that utilize healthy fats as well as a wide variety of fruits, vegetables and whole grains.3. Stay ActiveAdults should aim to exercise for approximately 30 minutes a day. In addition to getting your blood pumping, regular exercise also helps seniors with balance, agility and maintaining their independence. Consider joining a walking group, taking a yoga class, jumping into a water aerobics class or working with a trainer. At MBK communities, our MBK Fit programs support residents overall wellness, and achieve a wide range of fitness goals.4. Be SocialWho knew that being social can reduce the risk of a stroke? Fact is, being social can lower your blood pressure and reduce inflammation in your body, as well as boost your immune system, encourage good habits, delay memory loss, and relieve pain. Through our Mind+Body Wellness program, residents find a host of resident enrichment activities, events and outings that provide ample opportunities to connect and be social.5. Cheers & ChocolateStudies have shown that consuming dark chocolate and red wine (in moderation) can provide a number of benefits for your heart and overall health. Both include resveratrol, an antioxidant that is associated with lower blood pressure, lower cholesterol levels, suppressing cancer cells, and slowing down the slow down age-related cognitive decline.

While many clinical trials are being impacted by COVID-19 due to self-isolation, social distancing, travel limitations and site closures, fewer interruptions are being felt in the world of the virtual clinical trials and observational studies, many of which exist in the form of an online survey that takes 15 minutes or less to complete. We spoke with Dr. Matt Huentelman of the MindCrowd study and Dr. Rachel Nosheny of the Brain Health Registry (BHR) about how their online-based studies continue to collect important data related to Alzheimers and the brain during times of crisis.The Benefits of Remote Clinical TrialsWhile the COVID-19 crisis underscores the value of being able to conduct some trials remotely, there were already many benefits to going virtual. Harnessing the power of connecting virtually makes research participation more accessible to more people, such as those who dont live near a study site or cant afford to take time off from work to travel and complete lengthy, in-person tests, says Dr. Rachel Nosheny of BHR.While there are some aspects of in-person visits that cant be done remotely, such as PET or MRI scans, there are many things that can be accomplished successfully. Surveys about changes a person has noticed in their own memory and thinking, surveys about their ability to perform everyday tasks, and studies around genetics (through mailed saliva kits) all lend themselves well to virtual visits, Dr. Nosheny says. These types of tests can also be completed at a greater frequency than in-person visits, helping give researchers a more complete picture of brain health and how it changes over time.More than 70,000 people are enrolled in the observationalonline BHR study, which involves answering a few demographic questions and taking a 10-15 minute survey online, without ever being seen in person. We also have projects in which we are asking our participants to do more, such as get a brain scan at a hospital or provide a blood sample at a local site, once these are once again possibilities, Dr. Nosheny said. The online information provided, when combined with the in-person information, gives her team a unique opportunity: We will better be able to understand how virtually-collected data relates to the more traditional measures of brain health and disease.Dr. Matt Huentelman of the MindCrowd study agrees that the benefits of virtual participation in research are many. Like the BHR test, the MindCrowd test, an Internet-based research study of the brain, takes 10 minutes, which is far less time than it takes to complete an episode of that favorite sitcom youve been streaming. MindCrowd launched in 2013 and includes over 135,000 participants. Our goal is to use the Internet to engage the largest-ever research group that represents the widest diversity possible, says Huentelman. In just minutes, you will help us better understand how the brain works and learn ways that everyone might be able to best preserve their memory, helping us to match cognitive healthspan with human lifespan.The user-friendly MindCrowd website allows participants access through any desktop, laptop, or tablet, with a mobile phone option in the works. The site is also available in English, Spanish and Mandarin so you can participate in the study in the language that you are most comfortable using. Scientists still dont fully understand many of the factors that lead to differences in our memory, thinking and decision making. Our goal is to study all types of people and ultimately learn how to slow down the aging of our brains and prevent diseases like Alzheimers, Huentelman says.Data Informs Our FuturesInformation our participants provide is crucial for understanding how our brains change over time, especially during the aging process, Dr. Nosheny says. Moreover,participating in clinical trialshas the potential to help not only participants, but also those living with Alzheimer's disease or who are at risk of developing it. It allows individuals to gain access to potential treatments before they are widely available and receive care at leading healthcare facilities often free of cost while participating in important medical research.Now is absolutely the time to get involved, says Dr. Huentelman. One of the many beauties of an Internet-based study means that we do not anticipate a stopping point, he says. MindCrowd is in our seventh year. We are in this for the long haul, and you can be assured that we will be here continuing our research.Both Dr. Nosheny and Dr. Huentelman have seen many examples of researchers willingness to work together and share data during the current crisis. Now, more than ever, weve gotten requests to share our findings on virtual assessments so that other investigators can continue their research while many people are unable to come into clinics and hospitals during the COVID-19 crisis, Dr. Nosheny says. This collaboration between researchers and participation from people in communities across the country will help shape the future.Protecting The Next GenerationThere are varieties of reasons someone may want to get involved in this type of research, whether it is their own health, or their family history. Whatever the reason, Dr. Huentelman assures people that taking an Internet-based study should not be daunting. The Internet is open 24/7. We are able to engage with people who typically could not dedicate an entire day to an in-person trial and we are reaching people who haven't volunteered for scientific research in the past. If you have a few minutes to join us, please do. You can help brain research, whether you are 18 or 80 or even older, he says.Like many other families, Dr. Nosheny and her husband are juggling working from home with the world of e-Learning for their two young sons. Its a challenge, but we are safe at home together and I feel incredibly lucky to be able to continue my dementia research during this time.Ever since moving to the San Francisco Bay Area, Dr. Nosheny has loved running through the redwood forests near her home. There is something very comforting about running through these giant trees that have weathered storms, fires and droughts, for hundreds or thousands of years. It puts in perspective our collective ability to weather the next few seasons of hard times.Written By: Dr. Rachel L. Nosheny & Dr. Matt HuentelmanSubmitted By: Alzheimer's Association- Click for More InformationClick Here for The Original Blog Link*

Thinking about long-term care placement is never easy. The move into an assisted living facility or nursing home almost always means a loss of at least some independence, and for many people the cost can seem overwhelming.For veterans with a documented service-connected disability of 70 percent or greater, financial assistance may be available to cover the entire cost of long-term care. The key to accessing this Veterans Administration benefit is finding a VA contract nursing home or state veterans nursing home in your area. Some privately or corporate owned nursing homes have obtained contracts with the Veterans Administration to provide long-term skilled nursing care to these service connected disabled veterans, which is paid entirely by the VA. State veterans nursing homes, too, are able to provide the same service.For veterans with a service-connected disability of less than 70 percent who need long-term care specifically because of their service-connected disability, the same benefit may apply. In these instances, detailed medical records documenting the need for long-term care is directly related to the veterans service-connected disability is absolutely necessary prior to admission into a state veterans or VA contract nursing home.Veterans wanting more information about VA benefits for long-term care, or finding the nearest state veterans nursing home or VA contract nursing home should contact the Veterans Service Officer for the county where they reside. Typically, this information can be located in the county government section of the phone book.For qualifying service-connected disabled veterans, this VA benefit eliminates the financial concerns frequently associated with long-term care.Author:Lisa Seley of the Bruce McCandless Colorado State Veterans Home in Florence, CO

Note: Anger, divisiveness and discord may have dominated the headlines in 2019, but as the late Fred Rogers once said, even in scary times, there is goodness. In this year that brought his spirit to life through the inspiring film A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood, we are lifted by his reminder: When I was a boy and I would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me, Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.Indeed. To close the year on a positive and hopeful note, this week we introduce you to some of the helpers in your neighborhood.Merri Fefles is both haunted and buoyed by something her late mother once told her.She said, When you get to be a certain age people stop looking at you. You become invisible, Fefles said. "I am very cognizant of that now."Fefles, who spent 10 years caring for her sick mother until she passed in 2017, said that remembrance is with her every minute she is helping seniors get the services they need through PLOWS Council on Aging.[Most read] Illinois loses population for 6th straight year and it lost more residents than any state this decadeA professor of political science currently on sabbatical from Moraine Valley Community College, Fefles volunteers regularly with the nonprofit that serves senior citizens in 20 south suburban municipalities, including Worth, Blue Island, Oak Lawn and parts of Robbins.She began a few years ago delivering meals to homebound seniors with her niece and nephew, Elena and Billy Hajjar of Tinley Park.It was really eye-opening for all three of us. Were from this area and never realized how many people struggle. I feel almost ridiculous now. But you kind of live in your own little bubble. I didnt know that until I started working with PLOWS, she said.Today she has expanded her role and now helps people over age 60 navigate the complex sea of forms that can be a barrier to benefits such as Medicaid, SNAP food stamps, help with home improvements. She also steers callers in the direction of the resources they need, whether its meal delivery or adult protection services.Now were doing LIHEAT (Low income heat energy assistance), which gives people some assistance with their gas or electric bill, she said.You feel a sense of responsibility working here, she said. Some days, she added, she gets so wrapped up in callers needs that she doesnt want to take lunch.Sometimes Im moved to tears by peoples stories. So many remind me of my own mother. I miss her every day, she said.Fefles, who lives in Tinley Park, said the work she does for PLOWS is rewarding because its necessary.I love working here. Everything is very tangible. You do something for somebody, and theres immediate instant gratification -- for them and for me, she said.In addition to helping people sort through the jargon, she is a friendly voice of comfort and confidence, said PLOWS spokeswoman Jen Petterson.We are so lucky to have people like Merri who come to us and volunteer. She supports advocacy, guiding people on different resources out there. A lot of the government forms are very complex. As a nonprofit, we can guide people through those forms, Petterson said.PLOWS, Petterson said, relies on volunteers to help serve 16,000 seniors annually.The fact that Fefles connects with so many individuals on a personal level, Petterson said, is a bonus.Fefles, 43, grew up in Palos Hills. She attended Stagg High School and MVCC before earning a bachelors from Elmhurst College and masters degrees from Arcadia University and Arizona State.She completed graduate school in 2001 and landed a part-time teaching job filling in for a professor. A week after she started his classes, he fell ill and passed away suddenly.I took over his classes and got hired the next spring, she said. He was a wonderful man. And I thank God every day for this job.It was while she was working on her second masters degree and caring for her aging mother that she chose to fill a volunteer requirement through PLOWS.Ive always had an affinity for older people, she said. I never had grandparents. Maybe in a way Im taking care of other peoples grandparents.She said the work also creates balance in her life.I teach political science, so I keep up with all the toxicity in the country today. It seems we cant talk to each other anymore, she said.I help so many people who just want to talk to somebody. It makes me realize how many people just want someone to converse with, someone to care, she said.I think if people just had real conversations it would break down a lot of the toxicity there is now in our environment. Its easier to find common ground when you talk face to face, she said.Working here sort of restores my faith in humanity. I feel I get more out of it than I give," she said.As a teacher, she said, she may occasionally get a student who comes back to tell her that she influenced a career decision.But this is different. You see people everyday and help them everyday. And theyre so grateful. Makes me really appreciate what I have and the people I have around me, she said. You see so many people who dont have anyone.Seniors have so much to offer people, she said, yet theyre often not given the opportunity to do so.It almost seems like once you get to a certain age, youre deemed unnecessary. We kind of push them off to the side, she said.I wish we could harness their wisdom, energy and talent.

The National Placement Referral Alliance - NPRA, is a national membership organization formed to protect family choice for older adults. They provide education, promote best industry practices to pursue ethical and professional responsibility in the communities their members serve. The NPRA provides a platform locally from which their members can express their views on industry practices, legislation, rules, and regulations.At the NPRA, our driving force is to improve the processes for the nations senior population; ensuring they are protected and receive proper care. Our agents, care, and service providers have aligned to protect the best interest of older adults and their families. We are focused on regulations, better business practice and much-needed consistency in the senior placement industry. -Scott Fischer, 2019 NPRA Chapter Development Director, and TreasurerThere is a growing need to bring professionalism and Best Practices to this industry. Placement services offer an invaluable service to families when they have high standards.The local chapter Greater Denver Placement & Referral Alliance GDPRA is working diligently with the NPRA to develop additional Best Practices for the GDPRA and hold placement services accountable in Denver and throughout Colorado.Our local leadership is on point to help the industry create best practices, governance and professional development for placement agents and our partners. The GDPRA can inform our aging community about all the resources available to improve their experience and transition. -Cindy Koch, President of the Greater Denver Placement and Referral AllianceBy joining the NPRA, a member will have national and local access to resources, industry updates, events/conferences, educational programming with CEUs, and news. Membership also includes discounts on the national credentials for placement & referral agents. Go to www.npralliance.org/membership for more information about joining our movement.Website GDPRA: www.NPRAlliance.org/GDPRA GDPRA Main Contact: Marnie Biln, npradenver@gmail.com NPRA Main Contact: Scott Fischer, sfischer@NPRAlliance.org

Dr. Rasmussenoffers personalized service at home and on the go. Offering in-home visits, an award-winning Doctor of Audiology provides care that brings a new dimension to hearing, tinnitus, and hearing aid treatment. During 17 years in the field of Audiology, she heard the same complaints from patients: The office is far awayI get lostI cannot driveSays Dr.Rasmussen: All I could think is there must be a better way With advancements, I can now help patients in the comfort of their home. Doctors Hearing LLC bills insurance making Mobile Audiology affordable for most.Dr. Rasmussen is nationally recognized for her work on speech understanding in noise, which was published by the Acoustical Society of America. She is recognized for clinical implementation of the American Academy of Audiology guideline.At the top of her field, Dr. Rasmussen was the first Neuromonics Tinnitus Treatment provider in Naples. Dr. Rasmussen earned recognition in Naples Daily News for excellence in Hearing Aid and Tinnitus Treatment.Most recently, Dr. Rasmussen was awarded by Gulfshore magazine as one of the top 40 Under 40 in 2016--an honor that places her among the elite professionals in Southwest Florida.

Immunocal is a powerful and unique whey protein isolate. Immunocal, a 100 percent natural dietary supplement with superior nutritional value, is formulated to contain significantly high amounts of the rare precursors (building blocks) of GLUTATHIONE (GSH). Glutathione is the cells' own natural and most vital antioxidant, and detoxifier. GSH serves to reinforce both healthy and deficient immune systems. Immunocal is essentially lactose-, and fat-free, and has no known side effects.It was the original discovery of the importance of GSH in boosting the immune system that led to the development of IMMUNOCAL. As a result of many years of research which began in the late 1970's, Dr. Gustavo Bounous (world expert on GSH) and a team of McGill University physicians and scientists demonstrated that by using a whey protein isolate in the diet of experimental animals, the animals' life span was increased as much as 30% to 50%. This effect was a result of immune-function enhancement which occurred in a variety of ways, including a heightened resistance to infection, a lowered incidence of cancer, and a greater immune response when challenged with bacteria, viruses, or foreign antigens.Immunocal has numerous method-of-use patents, five being in the United States of America. Immunocal has a Method-of-Use Patent for PREVENTING and TREATING CANCER. It can reduce side effects from some cancers. Immunocal is the only natural product patented to safely raise and sustain GSH.Immunocal is listed in the Phy-sicians Desk Reference and the Pharmacists Redbook.Jeff Schuler, a consultant for Immunotec Research has a personal testimonial himself and many other testimonials from others who have taken the Immunocal product. Mr. Schuler states I have seen significant results from friends and clients who have had cancer, strokes, and diabetes. I truly believe that Immunocal is a miraculous product for the many health challenges that face us all.Article submitted by Jeff Schuler, Immunotec Research, and can be reached at 239-200-2471

Submitted by Coastal Orthopedics, CLICK HERE for more information.Article Written By: Dr. Meredith ButulisWe are born with feet and ankles made to support us through life, yet 78% of adults experience at least one episode of foot or ankle pain.1 Most pain and injuries occur over time, based on how we use our feet, which makes many sources of foot and ankle pain preventable. Use the checklist below to see what you can do for foot and ankle health at home.1. Check your footwearPatients often ask what brand of shoe is best. Footwear choices matter. The best choice is often related to shoe structure, as opposed to brand. Shoes that are too small, heeled shoes, and flip flops can lead to bunions and a variety of muscle and joint pains, not only in the feet, but also the knees, hips, and low back.2,3The top activities associated with sore feet are running, hiking, basketball, fitness walking, dancing, and using a treadmill.1 If your daily activity includes fitness, hiking, or athletics, be sure to pick a shoe that matches your activity. For example, if you plan to run a long distance, you need running shoes instead of weight lifting shoes. Generally, athletic shoes need to be replaced every 300-500 miles, or every 3-6 months, as their support materials break down.2. Roll your archesEver try to stretch a knot? The muscles and fascia wrapping around muscles can develop areas of tension that feel like knots. These knot-feeling areas dont stretch well. Taking one minute each day to roll your foot on a ball can help reduce tension not only in your feet, but all the way up the back of your calves, knees, hamstrings, and spine.3. Strengthen your archesThe average adult takes 4,000 to 18,000 steps every day.4 With the foot and ankle containing 29 muscles, and close to 25% of the bones in the whole body, every step determines how the rest of your joints feel. If you are struggling with foot, ankle, knee, hip, or back pain, start performing foot strengthening exercises every day.In either a seated or standing position, feel the weight of your heels, big toes, and little toes on the floor. Try to make your toes as flat as possible, as opposed to curling them under. Use muscles inside your feet to slightly elevate your arches. Repeat 10 times. Once you can perform this exercise comfortably 10 times, start progressing how long you hold each arch lift for. Work up to 5-10 second holds on each repetition.4. Stretch your calvesCalf flexibility affects how much motion you have in your ankle. Stiff ankles are more susceptible to injury. Perform a calf stretch beginning in staggered stance facing a counter or wall to hold for support. Toes should point forward as you bend your front knee and keep your back heel in contact with the ground. Hold the stretch for 30-60 seconds, then repeat on your other side.5. Strengthen your calvesCalf muscles help stabilize the ankle, and create push-off power for walking, stairs, running, or jumping. A basic calf raise exercise provides a good starting point for strength. Begin standing on two feet with your hands on a counter for support as needed. Keep your knees straight, and toes flat on the floor. Press your toes gently into the ground as you rise up on the balls of your feet. Start with an initial goal of one set of 10 repetitions. Over the course of a month, work up to three sets of 10 repetitions.SummaryWant healthy feet, ankles, knees, hips, and backs? Start by protecting your feet with the exercises above. Consistency is key. Seek how many tips you can incorporate on a daily basis.

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

To learn more aboutCharter Healthcare,CLICK HERE.People often react negatively to the initial mention of hospice because they do not fully understand it. Hospice is quality, compassionate care for people with a disease or condition that cannot be cured. The medical, emotional and spiritual support of hospice improves quality of life by creating a more comfortable environment for the patient and their loved ones.The goal of hospice care is to relieve suffering and promote quality of life. Below are answers to common questions about hospice care.Who is eligible for hospice care?Hospice care is appropriate for patients who are diagnosed with a terminal illness or condition with a prognosis of six months or less made by a doctor and the hospice medical director. At times, illness does not run its normal course and patients may be eligible for hospice services for periods longer than six months.Who decides when its time for hospice?The decision is ultimately up to the patient or designated decision-maker. Your care team can answer questions to help you make the best decision for you or your loved one.How long can someone be on hospice?There is no designated amount of time a person can remain on hospice. The patients medical condition is regularly reviewed to ensure they still meet the requirements for hospice.Who provides hospice care?Each hospice team consists of nurses, social workers, home health aides, spiritual counselors and volunteers who provide care under the direction of a medical director.What services are provided?Hospice care encompasses an array of services meant to support patients medical, emotional and spiritual needs, including:Nursing care and home health aidesMedical equipment and suppliesMedications and therapiesSocial services and spiritual supportBereavement services24-hour health lineWhere is hospice provided?Hospice can be provided in multiple settings such as the home, assisted living facilities and skilled nursing facilities.What are the benefits of hospice?Hospice care provides patients and their loved ones with many benefits that can relieve suffering and promote quality of life. These include:Personalized care in comfortable surroundings, often provided in the patients own homePrioritized goals for careRespect for the individual and their wishesCare and support for the familyGreater contentment and reduced anxietyHow is hospice care paid for?Hospice is a special benefit often fully covered by Medicare, Medicaid and many private health insurances. Most people receiving hospice care are covered by the Medicare hospice benefit, which covers virtually all aspects of hospice care with minimal out-of-pocket expense to the patient or family.Does hospice mean giving up?No. Hospice ensures the patient has the highest possible quality of life by keeping them as comfortable and pain-free as possible in the time they have left.

The decision to move a loved one into an assisted living community is challenging, to say the least. On top of dealing with the range of emotions connected with the decision, finding a community that meets your parent or spouses needs requires a fair amount of due diligence. You want a community that will treat your loved one with dignity and respect, but you also want one with plenty of amenities, classy accommodations, and a premium on residents well-beingin other words, someplace that will feel like home.Fortunately, in Naples, Florida, assisted living communitiesare available that cater to your loved ones every need and more. Finding the perfect community could take a little bit of work, however. You want to learn everything about an assisted living community in Naples if you can. You want to tour potential communities for your loved one, talking to residents and staffers. You should include your loved one in the process: After all, he or she will be doing the living in whichever community you choose. And you should ask questionsmany, many questions.Sometimes you will complete your due diligence with multiple assisted living communities in Naples, and the one you select just feels righta good fit for your loved one and for your familyand something you knew from the start. That doesnt mean you shouldnt ask questions along the way. Here are seven things to ask about when searching for assisted living in Naples:1. What dining options does your community provide?Moving to a senior living community shouldnt mean taking a step back in quality of life, including dining and nutrition. Ask about a communitys meal options. The best communities offer restaurant-style dining and three meals a day prepared by outstanding chefs. Some assisted living residents may have trouble eating, which is why The Arbor Company developedDining with Dignity. Through this program, chefs are trained to prepare nutritious, delicious meals that can be eaten with just seniors hands and are easy to chew and swallow. Residents are able to enjoy the full dining experience without embarrassment.2. Are your apartments cozy?Ask to see floor plans and pictures of the apartments an assisted living community offers. Residents shouldnt feel crammed, and even studios should have space for seniors to sit and relax somewhere other than the bed. Also, apartments should not feel like dorm rooms but, rather, like home; residents should have the ability to decorate and furnish apartments as they wish.3. What does Naples offer seniors?Florida already is a haven for retirees, but Naples is truly a special city for seniors. Shopping, restaurants, cultural opportunities, a robust senior sceneNaples has it all. Moreover, Naples offers plenty of activities seniors can enjoy with their families, such as the Naples Botanical Gardenand Naples Pier. And of course, the weather here is wonderful, to be enjoyed 12 months of the year.4. How will you attend to my loved ones unique needs?Seniors in an assisted living communityusually require some sort of individualized attention, ranging from help with laundry to assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs)or anything in between. The answer to this question will go a long way to determining whether a senior living community is right for your loved one. If a community isnt ready to bend over backward for its residents, it might not be the best choice for your family.5. What social activities and events do you host?Quality senior living is about making the mostor as much as a resident wantsof every day. Assisted living communities should be vibrant, welcoming places where residents are engaged, enjoying life, and anything but bored. Ask about social activities a community hosts, the types of events and clubs it offers, and what opportunities are available for residents to get out and about Naples.6. How can my loved one alert you if theres a problem?Many residents in assisted living are there because they need some level of monitoring and care they wouldnt be able to receive at home. Therefore, if they experience a problem when a staffer isnt around, they need to be able to contact someone for help. Proactive communities provide both wearable alert pendants and in-room call buttons so that no matter where a resident is, he or she can call for help when necessary.You likely have plenty of additional questions on your mind as you search for assisted living communities in Naples. We at Barrington Terracecan answer those questions. Contact us today to learn more about our outstanding assisted living community and to schedule a tour.Written and Submitted By: Barrington Terrace - click here for more information

To learn more aboutSunrise Assisted Living of Sandy, CLICK HERE.The idea of talking with an aging parent about their finances can create stress and anxiety for adult children. You dont want a senior loved one to think you are questioning their money-management abilities or worrying about their health. Its an unfortunate reality, however, that emergencies happen more frequently with age.If you arent able to pay a parents bills when they become ill, it can create some real problems. Thats why its best to tackle this conversation when an aging parent is still independent. Dont wait for a crisis to occur.Be HonestThe easiest way to get started is to be honest. Kindness and empathy are important. Explain that you want to be prepared to help if its ever needed. Here are a few of the issues youll need to discuss:Do they have a will? If so, where is it kept and who is the attorney that drafted it?Have they designated someone as their financial power of attorney or their power of attorney for healthcare decisions?What financial institutions do they use? Are their accounts set up online? Do they have log in and password information stored in a place you can access in the event of an emergency?What income do they have each month from pensions, investments, and social security?Are bills paid automatically online or are some paid by check? Where do they keep their checkbook?Who does their income taxes each year? Do they have an accountant? What about a financial planner?Remember, your goal should be to gain the knowledge necessary to keep your parents home running smoothly if they suffer a short-term or long-term medical event.Discussing financial issues and monitoring a seniors financial decisions can be challenging. Weve compiled a few suggestions you might find useful.Money and Aging Parents1. Talk with their accountant or financial plannerIf asking financial questions makes you or your parent uncomfortable, ask if you can talk to their accountant, attorney, or financial planner. Be sure your parent gives the professional permission to review their documents and accounts with you. Make a list of the questions you have and bring them to the meeting.2.Share your concerns about scams and identity theftWhile identify theft and financial scams are on the rise, not all older adults are familiar with these types of crimes. Explain to your parent that you have been reading about financial scams targeting seniors andyou want to protect them. By being more knowledgeable about their finances, you can be an extra set of eyes looking for potential problems.3.Register for the Do Not Call RegistryTelemarketer scams can be quite sophisticated. Since many seniors still have a landline, it is easier for fraudsters to access their phone number and persuade them to sign up for something unnecessary. Or to convince them that a government agency needs more information. One way to lower the risk of phone scams, is to register your parent for the governments Do Not Call Registry. While theres no guarantee of keeping scammers away, it does help. You can find the website to registerhere.4.Have more than one conversationOne last suggestion is to avoid overwhelming your parent with too many questions and requests at one time. It may be necessary to have a series of conversations to gain their cooperation and to get the answers you need. This will help you feel confident about managing a parents finances in an emergency.Is It Time for Assisted Living?Another tough conversation families might need to have is whether it is time to make a move. If a parent is isolated and lonely or their home isnt safe for a senior, an assisted living community might be a good fit.What Type of Care do You Need?is an online questionnaire the two of you can complete together in just a few minutes.

Continuing educationprograms generally refer to any post-secondary learning or programs that adults pursue after formaleducation. This can vary from seminars or one-time classes to online courses and entire degree programs.Continuing educationcoursesareoffered to adults in the community by local school boards, colleges and universities.#listing_mgr{7 basic_search}#

Unit specifically designated for patients in need of a ventilation rehab.Aventilatoris a machine that provides mechanicalventilationby moving breathable air into and out of the lungs, to deliver breaths to a patient who is physically unable to breathe, or breathing insufficiently. Ventilators are chiefly used inintensive-care medicine,home care, andskilled nursing communities.#listing_mgr{1 basic_search}#

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.

Did you know Idaho Power has programs for our income-qualified customers, including seniors, to receive FREE whole-house energy efficiency upgrades?To help improve comfort and lower electricity use, our weatherization programs provide energy efficiency improvements for customers with electrically-heated homes, apartments and manufactured homes. The improvements will also improve your homes air quality, health and safety. The programs are available for both owners and renters.FREE upgrades may include:New and additional insulation in attics, walls and under floorsNew furnace or furnace tune-upsNew vinyl windows and exterior doorsAir leaks, duct and ventilation sealingThese upgrades help keep your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer. They may also help reduce your energy bill!Benefits Youll LoveWhen we weatherize a home, we do as much as we can to save energy and provide a healthy and comfortable living environment for those who need it most.Through these weatherization programs, our customers will also learn how to use energy wisely, identify additional ways to help reduce heating and cooling costs, and learn how to use new equipment in their home, such as a programmable thermostat.With a Little Help from Our FriendsIdaho Powers weatherization programs are brought to our customers through valued partnerships with local Community Action Partnership (CAP) agencies in Idaho and Oregon. The CAP agencies have trained and certified weatherization auditors and crews to ensure energy efficiency improvements meet standards set by the Department of Energy.To see if you qualify for this program, please review the income qualifications below, and contact your local CAP agency. We hope you take advantage of these no-cost programs. We know youll be glad you did!Income Qualifications:Family SizeIdaho Customers Who Earn Less Than (Monthly):Oregon Customers Who Earn Less Than (Monthly):1$2603.00$2,023.332$3523.00$2,743.333$4445.00$3,463.334$5365.00$4,183.335$6285.00$4,903.33CAP Agencies:El Ada Community Action PartnershipElmore, Ada and Owyhee counties 208-322-1242Metro Community ServicesCanyon, Gem, Payette, Boise, Washington, Valley and Adams counties208-459-0065Community in ActionMalheur County541-889-9555Editors Note: This article was submitted by Idaho Powers Customer Care Team. Questions? Reach them at 1-800-632-6605.

How to Select a Subacute Rehabilitation FacilityA Subacute Rehabilitation Facility (SAR) provides short term nursing and rehabilitation care to assist you or your loved one, to recuperating from a hospitalization and returning to their previous lifestyle. The SAR provides a high level of supervision and patient interaction, which will assist in attaining or maintaining the highest level of physical, social and emotional well-being. After a hospitalization, your doctor may recommend or you may request a transfer to a Subacute Rehabilitation Facility.Planning Rehabilitation for RecoveryChoosing a Subacute Rehabilitation Facility can be planned ahead of time when you or a loved one are facing an elective operation such as a Joint Replacement, Heart Surgery, or Abdominal Surgery or while your loved one is unexpectedly hospitalized and a discharge is anticipated.. Subacute Rehab after an unexpected hospitalization assists someone in a weakened state to be provided with a plan of care to assist an individual to recuperate prior to returning to their previous lifestyle. Planning a visit to Subacute Facilities is important to allow you to evaluate all discharge options and to make a fully informed decision.Checklist of Concerns prior to Choosing a Subacute Rehabilitation:Tour and observe the facility to for cleanliness and a pleasant environmentIs the facility Accreditated by The Joint CommissionCan my primary care physician remain in charge of my care?Is physical, occupational and speech therapy provided by in house staff seven days a week?Is a physician specializing in Rehabilitation Medicine involved in the care and treatment planning? Do residents and families participate in developing the plan of care?Is there a dining area available that is attractive and inviting with dietary choices to meet my needs?Are consulting physicians on staff such as podiatrists, dentists, surgeons, psychiatrist and orthopedists?Does the facility provide outpatient rehabilitation therapy so I can continue with the same therapist?Are the rooms spacious, attractive and comfortable?Is there private space for visiting?Is the staff attentive, courteous and positive to residents and visitors?Is there an Activities Program?Making Your DecisionOnce you are comfortable with the Subacute Rehabilitation Facilities which you have simply asked your physician and or social worker at the hospital about your decision to transfer to that facility. The choice is yours and it is important you are part of the decision whether it is for yourself or a loved one.Editors Note: This article was provided by Paul Jendrek, M.D., Fellow of the American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. Dr. Jendrek is currently an attending at the Regent Care Center, Polify Road, Hackensack, New Jersey.He has been in practice 20 years. Dr. Jendrick trained at Rusk Institute for Rehabilitation NYU Medical Center and now sub-specializing in Subacute Rehabilitation since 2003. He can be reached at 201-646-1166.

Continuing a life of health and wellness as one ages requires regular adjustments and adaptations through the bodys many changes.Living independently in the community late into life is very possible, and requires a commitment to life-long learning of new skills.Across Colorado, Independent Living Centers, or ILCs, help seniors and their families and friends adjust and adapt to aging in place. As the body ages there is a common diminishing of six core functions that many will experience. Hearing, vision, mobility, speech, cognition, and self-care are all areas that seniors will lose some amount of capacity in as they age. Independent Living Centers are non-profit organizations, highly skilled and trained in working with seniors, their care staff and their families to create solutions for a richer, independent life at home. On the Western Slope, Center for Independence is an Independent Living Center that provides solutions including paratransit, in-home services and environmental modifications including the installation of adaptations such as ramps and grab bars. ILCs also offer Transitional Placement services to facilitate the transition of one already living in a group, nursing or institutional setting back into an independent living situation in the community. This in turn saves residents, their families, and tax payers money otherwise spent on the high cost of institutional living. The transitional teams help ensure a successful move back home through a proven comprehensive, multi-agency team approach.In addition to these previously mentioned no-cost services available through non-profit Independent Living Centers, center-based programs including senior support groups, adaptive technology trainings and social outings. These services are available to ensure seniors aging in place have regular access to skilled and dedicated support professionals committed to providing the opportunity to live an empowered, independent life in the home of ones choosing. To learn more about a Colorado ILC near you, check out: www.coloradosilc.orgEditors Note: This article was submitted by Ryan T. Cook. For further information on the Center for Independence call 970-241-0315 or email: info@cfigj.org.

With each passing year, new data continues to prove that Alzheimers disease is a growing epidemic. Significant increases in costs and incidence, including care costs for individuals living with Alzheimers or other dementia's surpassing a quarter of a trillion dollars have been reported in the Alzheimers Association 2018 Alzheimers Disease Facts and Figures report.However, this years report goes beyond the statistics with a special report on the financial and personal benefits of early diagnosis, addressing prevalence, mortality and morbidity, caregiving and what the disease could mean to our health care system if left unchecked. As the number of older Americans grows rapidly, so does the number of people living with Alzheimers and the impact to the nations economy. An estimated 5.7 million Americans are currently living with Alzheimers with an expected increase to 7.1 million people by 2025. There are currently over 400,000 people in Pennsylvania who have been diagnosed with Alzheimers or a related dementia and it continues to increase each year. This number does not include all those who are affected by the disease such as family and caregivers, states Jeremy Bland, Director of Marketing and Communications, Alzheimers Association Greater Pennsylvania Chapter. In fact, by the time you are finished reading this article 1- 2 people will have developed the disease based on the fact that every 65 seconds another diagnosis is made. Alzheimers disease is not only affecting those diagnosed, but caregivers as well. Due to the long duration of this disease, the strain on Alzheimers caregivers can last several years and produce serious declines in caregiver physical, emotional and financial well-being. In 2017, 16 million Americans provided an estimated 18.4 billion hours of unpaid care in the form of physical, emotional and financial support at a valued cost of $232.1 billion. The difficulties in providing this level resulted in an estimated $11.4 billion of additional health care costs for Alzheimers and other dementia caregivers in 2017. By 2050, the total cost of care is projected to exceed $1.1 trillion. Unfortunately, mortality from Alzheimers disease also continues to rise. While deaths from other major causes continue to decrease, new data shows that deaths from Alzheimers disease have more than doubled, increasing 123 percent between 2000 and 2015. In comparison, the number of deaths from heart disease the number one killer in America decreased 11 percent. Alzheimers is the most underrecognized threat to public health in the 21st century according to Dr. David Satcher, former U.S. Surgeon General and former Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Director. Investing in a nationwide Alzheimers public health response will help create population-level change, achieve a higher quality of life for those living with the disease and their caregivers, and reduce associated costs

Aid & Attendance was established in 1952 to provide financial assistance to wartime Veterans and or their surviving spouses who lack the funds necessary to pay for the care they require with routine activities of daily living.Those who served our country during the following wars (whether overseas or stateside) are eligible for a special payment to assist them with providing care for themselves, a spouse or surviving spouse: WWII, the Korean Conflict, the Vietnam War, or the first Gulf War.This pension is designed to help the Veteran pay for the assistance of someone to help them with the activities of daily living such as medication management, dressing, mobility, meal preparation, bathing etc. Care can be provided at home, in an assisted living community, or in a nursing home. The care can be provided by loved ones or professional staff.A Veteran may receive up to $1,644 a month. A Veteran and spouse may receive $1,949 and a surviving spouse of a Veteran, up to $1,056 per month. This pension is paid directly to the Veteran or spouses bank account similar to their social security check and it is completely TAX FREE.Many Veterans or their surviving spouses require the assistance of someone to come in to help them with things such as cooking, cleaning, driving to appointments etc. while at the same time helping them with some personal care. Many of these seniors prefer to stay at home but cannot afford to have someone help them with these activities. With this tax-free pension, they would be able to afford the assistance they need in home or move into assisted living that provides them with the care they deserve.If you served our country during a period of war, check out your eligibility for this pension. If you require assistance at home, if you currently live in an assisted living community, or if nursing care is inevitable, you may be able to increase your standard of living or move into the type of community where you can receive the care you deserve.Editors Note: This article was submitted by Carole Autrey, Director of Senior Care Associates, 801-424-1444

Take advantage of everything your plan offers to achieve optimum health and well-beingIf you're one of the 14 million Americans enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan, you already know that your plan covers hospital stays, doctor visits and other major medical needs. But are you aware of the additional benefits and features that your plan offers?Being familiar with your Medicare Advantage plan will not only help you maximize the value you are receiving in benefits, but, in many cases, it will also help you achieve better health and well-being.Here are five important ways you can take advantage of your Medicare Advantage plan.Preventive Care: Medicare Advantage plans place a strong emphasis on preventive health care services that help keep you healthy, detect diseases at an early stage, and avoid preventable illnesses. That's why we encourage you to schedule regular health screenings fully covered by your Medicare Advantage plans, as well as an annual medical exam. These screenings can help your doctor catch things early when they're easier to treat.Care Management: If you are living with a chronic condition, such as diabetes or heart disease, what educational programs and support does your plan offer? Some Medicare Advantage plans offer personalized, telephonic care management, health coaching, education and support provided by registered nurses and other health professionals. These plans also offer a toll-free help line where you can speak with a registered nurse about your health concerns anytime.Wellness Programs: Many Medicare Advantage programs offer fitness programs at no extra cost and, in some cases, even include a fitness center membership. Through your health plan you may also be eligible to participate in exercise classes specially designed for older adults.Immunizations: Flu and pneumonia shots are another important part of your covered preventive care, since people 65 and older are at greater risk of serious side-effects of these common illnesses. Because this years flu season was one of the worst in recent years, make sure you are up to speed on your shots. Community and Financial Resources: If you have limited financial resources, you should be aware that there are plans available that provide extra services and lower plan costs for low-income beneficiaries, along with additional choices and benefits. If you qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid you may also be eligible for significant support and assistance from the government. If you're not sure, visit medicare.gov, or call 1-800-MEDICARE.These are just some of the benefits and features that can help you maximize your Medicare Advantage coverage and improve your health and well-being. Be sure to take a look at your health plan today to ensure you're getting the most from your plan.Editors Note: This article was written by Dr. Richard Smith, Medical Director for Humana's Senior Products in Utah and submitted by Humana. For more information on Humana's senior products in Utah call (800) 884-8328.

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.

Why is prevention so important?I firmly believe that when you see a doctor regularly, your health improves. An annual wellness exam is all about preventing illness. Seeing your doctor once a year gives the opportunity to talk about your specific family history and helps in assessing your risk for cardiovascular disease, metabolic syndrome and various cancers. In that visit, you will be offered important preventative measures, like age-appropriate cancer screenings and vaccinations.I feel fine. Why should I go to the doctor every year?You might feel fine, but you already may have some diseases or conditions; youre just not symptomatic yet. These can be detected early by U.S. Preventative Task Force (USPSTF) recommended screening tests.March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. What can I do to prevent colon cancer?The gold standard for colon cancer screening is a colonoscopy. Starting at age 50, men and women should schedule a colonoscopy screening. If you have a family history of colon cancer, the screenings start as early as 40.Are there other options besides a colonoscopy?Lets be honest, most patients dont want a colonoscopy. While it remains the best screening tool for colon cancer, there are other options approved by the American Gastroenterological Association (AGA) such as FIT, FOBT, Cologuard or Stool-DNA test, flexible sigmoidoscopy or CT colonography. The AGA highly recommends getting one of the other tests for colorectal cancer screening in specific intervals if you do not want to get a colonoscopy.Can annual exams and screenings really make a difference?I believe 100 percent that the earlier you detect and start treatment of any condition, the better your outcome is going to be.Gnanambal Manivel, M.D. is board certified in Internal Medicine. She moved to Florida in 2018 to practice medicine. She firmly believes in educating her patients about a healthy lifestyle and welcomes you to her new location at 5741 Bee Ridge Road in Sarasota.About Dr. Gnanambal ManivelBoard Certified in Internal MedicineInternal Medicine Residency at Western Reserve Health Education, Trumbull Regional Medical Center, Warren, OhioFocus on wellness and prevention, chronic disease managementContactMillennium Physician Group5741 Bee Ridge Road, Suite 250, Sarasota, FL 34233(941) 552-8808millenniumphysician.comClick Here to View Original Article*

Spousal caregivers of persons with dementia experience greater cognitive decline than non-dementia caregivers.Studies exist citing the stress experienced by caregiversmany who are diagnosed with their own health related health concerns. Caregivers place their own health needs at a lower priority than the person for whom they care and fail to seek medical care. A care management assessment provides recommendations and options for the caregiver and care recipient that can save time, frustration, and expense.Unfortunately, for a caregiver to pay attention to his or her health, it takes a wake up call like a serious change in health. Caregivers fail to consider who will care for their loved one if they are unable to provide care. They also feel extreme responsibility resulting from pressure from the care recipient or other family members to provide care. Caregivers experience significant guilt about the duty to provide care. Caregivers who are age 65 or older, are more physically and emotionally affected by the stress of caregivingMany caregivers tell me that they do not have a choice caregiving and that this lack of choice is self-imposed. Caregivers feel that caregiving is their personal responsibility and report that they feel pressured to perform these tasks by the care receiver.Many caregivers hold out with the expectation or hope that caregiving will not be a long-term situation. This belief is more accurate for non-dementia caregivers than spouses caring for a loved one with dementia.With the majority of dementia caregivers being women, stress is of significant concern because older women are a group that is already at high risk of developing Alzheimers disease without the additional stressors of being a dementia caregiver.The importance of identifying supports through community resources or through a care management assessment cannot be underestimated so that the health and well-being of the caregiver is not compromised and the care recipient receives the needed care. Care managers offer years of expertise that usually result in options not previously considered and assist in future care planning to avoid crises situations.Editors Note: 2017, 2018 Pamela D. Wilson. All Rights Reserved.Pamela D. Wilson, CSA, MS, BS/BA, CG is owner of The Care Navigator and author of the book, The Caregiving Trap: Solutions for Lifes Unexpected Changes Pamela may be reached at 720-726-3111.

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.

Long Term Care Insurance (LTCI) policies are designed to cover care costs not traditionally paid by other insurances, includingsupport at home for activities of daily living(ADLs)likebathing, dressing, walking, etc. It is estimated that over 70% of seniorswill have a need for these types of services. After purchasing a policy, few consider the critical elements of managing a LTCi claim: 1) successfully filing a claim, 2) maximizing a LTCi policy by actively managing an efficient care plan and 3) sustaining a claim to continue receiving uninterrupted payment to ensure continuity of care.When it comes time to file a claim, often during a time of crisis, most rely on themselves, a family member or friend, or even the insurance companys Claims Department for advice and support during the process. This could be a very costly and frustrating mistake! There are many pitfalls to avoid when filing a claim, some resulting in a frustrating delay or denial of a claim, while others can result in hundreds of thousands of dollars of reduced benefits. Hopefully, the same careful planning and thoughtful approach that one used to guide their decision to purchase a LTCi policy, will lead them to seek the advice and guidance of a trained professional that specializes in advocating on their behalf and serves as a buffer between them and the insurance company.Over the last 30 years, there have been many different LTCi policies offered to Massachusetts residents, adding to the challenge of understanding and managing the claims process. Often, many of the important details are not listed on the policy paperwork that one may be holding. It is important to fully understand the policy basics to include: covered benefits, elimination period, maximum daily benefits, inflation riders, and restoration of benefits, to name a few. However, the devil is in the details when it comes to a LTCi policy. Without knowing what to ask and even how to ask it, you may not get all of the facts, even when calling the insurance carriers Claims Department.The good news for LTCi policy holders, is that there are a few specialized resources that can help educate, support and advocate on their behalf. Be certain that your resource is truly an expert and performs this service as an integral part of their business. Consider seeking advice, even BEFORE you need to make a claim, limiting the anxiety.Editors note: This article was authored by Colin Preis, Owner or AMADA Senior Care. AMADA is a locally-owned, nationally recognized home care company specializing in assisting those with Long Term Care Insurance.

If youre like most Americans, you prefer to age in place in your own home. Thats why hospice services come to residents in assisted living facilities (ALF)to enhance the care they are already receiving. VITAS Healthcare, the nations leading provider of end-of-life care, is proud to recognize National Assisted Living Week: September 915, 2018.ALFs are designed to feel as much like home as possible. Residents enjoy comfortable surroundings, social activities and home-like amenities, with some receiving help with dressing, eating, personal care and hygiene, as well as daily monitoring for select chronic diseases like heart disease, Alzheimers disease, depression and diabetes.Hospice care in the ALFIf an individual becomes eligible for hospice care, an interdisciplinary VITAS team works with the resident, his family and physician, and ALF staff to implement a care plan that supports comfort, pain relief, symptom management and quality of life at the end of life.A VITAS hospice teamdoctor, nurse, aide, chaplain, social worker, bereavement specialist and volunteerbrings compassionate care and medical expertise to the ALF resident at the bedside, addressing physical, psychosocial, emotional and spiritual needs.Compassionate care from a hospice teamCovered 100% by Medicare, Medicaid and most private insurance plans, patients pay nothing out-of-pocket for hospice team visits, medical equipment, medications and supplies that are related to the terminal illness and delivered to the ALF.VITAS, celebrating its 40th anniversary in 2018, also provides specialized services, including Paw Pals pet visits, music therapy and massage therapy. VITAS teams recognize the unique experiences of veterans and provides culturally sensitive care for Latino, Asian, Haitian, African American, Jewish and LGBTQ populations. When an ALF resident passes away, VITAS provides bereavement services and grief support to the family, staff and other residents for up to a year.If an ALF is home, VITAS can provide the hospice services that will enable residents to live, age and die in the comfort of their own home. In honor of National Assisted Living Week, thats comforting to know.For more information about hospice care or end-of-life care options, call VITAS Healthcare at 866.759.6695 or visit VITAS.com.

If you or a loved one were facing a terminal illness, would you know what options are available to you and your family? Many of us may think that we will not face death anytime soon, so the question is irrelevant. In reality, however, nearly half of the U.S. population will be touched each year by the death of a friend, family member or colleague at work.Every culture, every community has its own set of myths and fears about terminal illness and the dying process. One of the challenges that all hospice caregivers face is to help dispel those myths and reassure patients and families about the realities of effective end-of-life care.Consider the following myths. By learning the truth, youll become better able to handle the inevitableMyth #1: Hospice is a place.Reality: Hospice isnt a place. Its the aggressive treatment of physical and emotional pain and symptoms at the end of life, which also is known as palliative care. Research has shown that more than three-quarters of all Americans, if given the choice, would prefer to die at home, in comfortable and familiar surroundings, accompanied by family and friends. Hospice is designed to respect that desire.Myth #2: Hospice means giving up on the terminally ill.Reality: When medical treatments cannot cure a disease, the interdisciplinary team of hospice professionals can do a great deal to control pain, reduce anxiety and provide medical, spiritual and emotional comfort to patients and their families. Our goal is to do everything we can to improve the quality of life for our patients and their loved ones. We work to ease the discomfort, the fears and the high expense that can accompany incurable illness.Myth #3: Hospice is just for cancer patients.Reality: Hospice provides care for adult and pediatric patients with a wide range of life-limiting illnesses, including but not limited to cancer, heart disease, stroke, lung disease, liver disease, kidney disease, multiple sclerosis, ALS, Alzheimers, Parkinsons and AIDS.Myth #4: Hospice isnt much more than just hand-holding at the bedside of the terminally ill.Reality: Hospice actually is much more. It is the aggressive treatment of physical and emotional pain and symptoms. Hospice care is provided by a highly skilled team of palliative care experts, including: a physician, nurses, home health aides, social workers, a chaplain, bereavement specialist and volunteers.Myth #5: Hospice care is expensive.Reality: The vast majority of hospice patients, as you might expect, are elderly and, therefore, Medicare beneficiaries. The Medicare Hospice Benefit is all-inclusivecovering 100 percent of the cost of hospice care. There are no deductibles; there are no out-of-pocket expenses to patients or their loved ones. Families dont have to spend themselves into poverty to qualify for hospice coverage. In most states, Medicaid also provides hospice coverage. Most private insurance plans also include a hospice benefit.Editors Note:This article was submitted by Maureen Gilligan, General Manager of VITAS Innovative Hospice Care in New Jersey North, (973) 994-4738. You can learn more about hospice care by visiting the VITAS website: www.VITAS.com, or by calling 1-800-93-VITAS.

When considering retirement living options, seniors are looking for comfort and community, as well as an array of services and amenities that enhance and fulfill everyday living. As baby boomers age, they are setting new standards in senior living thats making senior living communities a popular option amongst the new older generation. You are not alone if you find yourself confused between the many different options when it comes to care types and styles of senior living communities. Senior living communities are designed to tailor seniors looking for varying levels of care, ranging from little assistance to 24-hour nursing.Here are the four most common types of senior living communities: Independent Senior Living Communities are best suited to seniors who are living an independent, self-sufficient life. They offer a carefree lifestyle, freeing residents of the many burdens of daily life. Meals are prepared, housekeeping, laundry and transportation services available as well as 24-hour on-site staffing and great social events and activities. Assisted Living Communities are a combination of housing, personalized assistance services and care, tailored to the individual who requires help with activities of daily living. In these communities you'll find more support services such as assistance with bathing, grooming, and dressing while still enjoying independence. Memory Care Communities are designed especially for residents with memory loss and other forms of dementia. Memory care is often provided in a secure area or special wing within an assisted living community. Skilled Nursing Facilities (Nursing Homes) offer the highest level of care for residents (outside of a hospital) with an emphasis on medical care. They offer 24-hour supervised care with meals, activities and health management support for residents. When looking into senior living communities, making the right choice involves focusing on three important issues: quality of life, standards of care and cost and value. Seek the right answers to these issues and you will find yourself happily at home in a residence that is right for you. Editor's Note: This article was submitted by Mimi Tapia-Bowie at The Village at Stonebridge. She may be reached at 972-542-9100.

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.2 However, 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's senior products in Idaho call 1-800-884-8328. 1 https://www.cms.gov/Research-Statistics-Data-and-Systems/Statistics-Trends-and-Reports/NationalHealthExpendData/NationalHealthAccountsHistorical.html 2 http://www.cdc.gov/chronicdisease/resources/publications/AAG/aging.htm 3 http://www.gphaonline.org/about/generic-medicines/ 4 http://www.fda.gov/drugs/resourcesforyou/consumers/questionsanswers/ucm100100.htm 5 http://www.cdc.gov/workplacehealthpromotion/businesscase/reasons/rising.html

Approximately 43.5 million adult children over the age of 50 Americas Baby Boomer Generation are caring for their aging loved ones. Many of these boomers are squeezed between facing their own health needs and the need to still work and provide care for their parents and loved ones. This generation may be the first to care equally as long for parents as for children. Countless boomers are just not prepared for the financial, physical and emotional impact of assisting their older loved ones.Family caregiving is becoming more and more commonplace for baby boomers, said Peggy Baker, owner of Right at Home, Bonita Springs, Fl. Some loved ones need more personal day-to-day care, while others only need occasional help living independently. The best time to plan for care needs of parents and older loved ones is before the persons health or living situation reaches a crisis mode. One way to ease the load of caregiving is to consider home care companies which provide everything from transportation and homemaking to hygiene care and skilled nursing.Because boomers are the sandwich generation, faced with the challenges of elder/parent care and helping their own children, caregiver professionals advise the boomers to pay special attention to their own health and energy reserves. Caregiving can be both a rewarding personal experience and a stressful demand. Boomers who plan ahead and talk through care options with their loved ones will be better prepared when a slowed stage of life comes knocking.Editors Note: This article was submitted by Steve Wise, Director of Business Development, Right At Home.

For those living with Alzheimers disease it is important to understand the dietary needs and mealtime changes that need to occur to ensure a safer, more enjoyable quality of life. Mealtime means more than a balanced diet, as it is a key component of daily living providing a routine and socialization.For someone newly diagnosed with Alzheimers disease and in the early stages, mealtime is a good time for socialization, with slight modifications. For example, rather than having a dinner party at a busy restaurant with 12 people, an intimate gathering of 4 6 at someones home would be more enjoyable. This would also be a good time to start a mealtime routine. Evening time can become a time of anxiety and aggression in those living with Alzheimers. Late meals can add to this and act as a trigger for unpleasant behaviors, so it is recommended that the largest meal of the day be midday. Evening time should consist of a light snack, making it easier to sleep through the night.As the disease progresses to the moderate stage, it is necessary to increase taste, texture and color of the meals. Bright colors from fruit and vegetables add interest to the plate, and smoother textures can ease swallowing. Eating in small groups consistently will provide comfort and familiarity and having a constant dinner partner can also be beneficial.In the late stages of the disease, it is important to focus on the texture of the food, for ease of swallowing. As it become harder for those with Alzheimers to control their tongue and muscles used for eating, a smoother texture is needed throughout the diet. Of course, during this time, nutrition is just as important. Often times, supplements or shakes are needed to ensure the right nutrition is being consumed. Additional care and assistance during mealtime is needed.When choosing a community look for one that offers an onsite chef, who understands the needs of those living with Alzheimers and have the meal plans reviewed by a registered dietician, to ensure that menus are nutritious and well balanced.Editorial Note: This article was submitted by The Cottages at Chapel Creek. The Cottages has been operating in Texas since 1997 and is family owned and operated by The Cottages Senior Living. They may be reached at 972-464-2757.

Diversity within the family unit today can cause much confusion over who is in charge when you die. Many believe a power of attorney will take care of everything when death occurs. But unfortunately the power of attorney ends with death. Therefore this can create challenges with family members who have the right for example to authorize cremation. The next of kin will be determined as the next living blood relative. This may be a long lost daughter you have not talked to for 20 years who is the only child or shares equal rights as the other children regarding your disposition and service arrangements. This can be avoided if you plan ahead of time. If a pre-arrangement with a funeral home is made, you can sign your own cremation authorization in the state of Florida, which authorizes the funeral home to move forward without the signature of a family member in the case where that person is estranged from the family. At Fuller we work with families ahead of time to plan their wishes for several reasons to ensure their wishes are met, to sign paperwork ahead of time ensuring this issue doesn't arise, relieving the emotional burden from their family which can cause overspending, and locking in todays price if they pre-pay for their services with the various payment plans available. As parents we have always planned and taken care of everything for our family why stop now?Editors Note: This article submitted by Jan Smith, Managing Partner of Fuller Funeral Homes-Cremation Service, 239-592-1611.

For more information on the author, Cypress Springs, CLICK HERE!Mental health is extremely important for older adults because poor mental health can have an adverse effect on the overall health of the body. According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), over 20% of seniors have had a mental health concern but only about two out of three received treatments. Seniors are at a huge risk for anxiety and depression due to chronic disease, isolation, and loneliness.Each October 10th, the World Health Organization (WHO) celebrates World Mental Health Day with the goal to help raise awareness and help people dealing with problems concerning mental health live better lives with dignity.Here are three ways seniors and their loved ones can improve their mental health:Support During TraumaHere are a few ways to help reduce anxiety during periods of stress due to uncertain times. Were not out of the woods yet, which means the pandemic can be extremely taxing on your mental health.Benefits of FriendshipsTime and again, research shows that seniors who have a close group of friends tend to live longer than people who dont.Continue to Flex Your MindBe sure to flex that muscle daily! Whether its puzzles with a loved one, reading a new novel, or flying a kite, routine brain exercises help you maintain healthy cognitive function.

Skilled Nursing Facilities (SNFs) vary greatly in their ability to provide high quality individualized Rehabilitation services to patients. Patients, families, & healthcare professionals often choose a SNF based on geographical factors, physical plant (e.g. interior/exterior design, meals, availability of private rooms); also, often used in the selection process is an environment that is clean and odor-free, as well as positive regulatory agency reports. Although these factors can play a role in the decision making process, other very important factors that should be considered are often overlooked. Successful Rehabilitation, measured by positive functional outcomes, can best be achieved in facilities that provide highly individualized Rehabilitation services -- where there is a close working alliance between patients/families/caregivers & a highly skilled team of healthcare professionals. The goal of this team is to maximize a given patients physical, functional, emotional, social, spiritual, vocational, & leisure potential --often after life changing/catastrophic illness. Healthcare professionals that should be part of this team include primary care physicians (PCP), and physiatrists, who should work closely side by side. While the PCP attends to the general medical needs of the patient, the physiatrist --a physician specializing in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation -- attends to the patients individualized Rehabilitation program. The physiatrist serves as the team leader of a group of individuals, which include, but is not limited to: occupational therapists, physical therapists, speech language pathologists, social workers, recreational therapists, patients and their families/caregivers. Also important to the Rehabilitation process is around the clock availability of highly qualified nursing staff, as well as the easy availability of other healthcare consultants as needed. There should be close attention to the proper equipment needed for rehabilitation and the actual amount of time that a patient actively participates in the rehabilitation program, and this should reflect the actual needs of the patient. The proper matching of a specific patients need for rehabilitation services and the services that a specific SNF can actually provide, will help to maximize a successful rehabilitation outcome; this is turn, will help to minimize psychological & financial difficulties for the patient and their family -- during a usually very stressful period in their lives.Editors Note: This article was provided by Jose A. Alonso, M.D., full time physiatrist on staff at Prospect Heights Care Center. Dr. Alonso is the Medical Director of Rehabilitation Medicine Services, Prospect Heights Care Center located at 336 Prospect Avenue, Hackensack, NJ, The PM&R Center, P.A., Englewood, NJ and Assistant Clinical Professor of Rehabilitation Medicine, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, New York. He can be reached at 201-678-1800.

To learn more about AccentCare Hospice,CLICK HEREMany older adults enjoy a glass of wine with dinner or a beer while watching the game on TV.Having a drink now and then is fine. But dont overdo it. As an older adult, alcohol may affect you differently than it does younger adults.Alcohol and agingAs you age, you become more sensitive to alcohols effects. After age 65, your lean body mass and water content drop. Plus, your metabolism slows down. Alcohol stays in your system longer. As a result,the amount of alcohol in your blood is higher than it would have been when you were younger.Older adults also are more likely to have hearing and eyesight problems. They have slower reaction times, too. This puts them at higher risk for falls, broken bones, and car crashes tied to drinking.Some health problemsin people older than age 65, and the medicines used to treat them,can worsen with alcohol's effects. These include diabetes, high blood pressure, and ulcers.Heavy alcohol use can also lead to other health problems, such as cancer and liver disease.It's also linked to depression and suicide.Medicine interactionsMedicines taken by older adults are more likely to have serious interactionswith alcohol and other medicines. These include many prescribed and over-the-counter medicines and herbal products. Medicines and alcohol can interact even if theyre not taken at the same time. That's because the medicine may still be in your blood when you have a drink.Whats a safe amount?The National Institute on Alcohol and Alcoholism advises that people older thanage 65 who are healthy and who do not take any medicineshave no more than 7 drinks a week. And no more than 1 to 2 drinks on any 1 day. One drink equals:12 ounces of beer, ale, or wine cooler8 ounces of malt liquor5 ounces of wineOr 1.5 ounces of distilled liquorHow to cut downIf you want to limit your drinking or yourhealthcare providersuggests it, try these steps:1. Write down your reasons for cutting back. These might include wanting to improve your health or to sleep better. Other reasons may be to improve relationships and to stay independent.2. Track your drinking habits for at least 1 week. Write down when and how much you drink every day.3. Set a drinking goal. You may decide to cut down to 1 drink a day. Or not to drink at all. Write your goal on a piece of paper and put it where you will see it every day.

Today more than ever, families find themselves caring for aging loved ones, known today as the aging family.Many of these aging families are overwhelmed with trying to manage the care of an aging loved one along with duties in their own lives, work and family. In their attempt to manage the care of aging loved ones, stress, anxiety and feeling of being overwhelmed can all lead to caregiver burnout, pre-mature placements or re-hospitalizations of aging loved ones. Living out of state creates additional issues and concerns in managing the care of an aging loved one.Satisfying an increasing critical need of the aging family is becoming progressively more prevalent today. It is important that the aging family understand professional support services are available and can help immensely in the overall care management of their aging loved ones. This professional support is Geriatric Care Management (GCM). GCM is hired by the aging family or representative to provide specialized professional services focused on safety and well being of the aging person via Geriatric Care Managers.GCM helps the aging family to make decisions and implement solutions that provide assurance for quality of life and care for aging loved ones. This will reduce stress, anxiety, and feelings of being overwhelmed, taking time off work or away from their own families. GCM is able to do this by providing: Comprehensive assessment and on-going monitoring Care plan development, problem-solving with solutions Advocacy, education and being a liaison Family caregiver assessment and coaching Relocation, level of care assessment and referrals Implementing in home non medical assistance Attending medial appointments to assure information is provide and gathered properly Verbal or written up dates to families or representatives And much moreGeriatric Care Managers are professionals who have graduate degrees in Social Work, Psychology, Gerontology or Nursing and are Certified or Licensed.GCM is private pay, costs for these professional services range from $25 to $250 per hour as national averages and vary by geographical area.Editors Note: This article was submitted by Valerie Rios, a Care Manager Certified with Aging Solutions Geriatric Care Management and may be reached at 801-615-9360 or GCM@agingsolutionsutah.com

For more information on Comfort Keepers- Sarasota, CLICK HERE.More seniors are spending time online than ever before. Technology can benefit seniors in so many ways it can help them connect with loved ones, get essential goods and services without leaving their home, and provides opportunities to stay in contact with their communities.Anyone can be a target for cyber criminals, and there are a variety of ways that attacks can occur. Avoiding scams and predators online is critical for anyone that spends time online, but even more for seniors. Older adults need to be aware of potential scams and know how to stay diligent while online. According to Cybercrime Magazine, estimated losses from scams on the elderly are thought to cost families 36 billion annually.Like all powerful tools, the internet and mobile technologies come with some risks. These risks can be managed if users follow some basic rules: Here are five ways that seniors can stay safe online:Security software There are a variety of anti-virus and anti-spyware software options that can help protect a senior online. Ensuring the program is installed properly is critical and running updates on a regular basis ensures that new threats are mitigated. It is also important to make sure to update software on computers, tablets, and mobile devices to the latest version when those updates are released. These updates protect users from bugs and provide software patches to protect from hackers.Limit access to accounts Scammers often try to steal the personal and financial information that seniors access online. To keep this data secure, users should enable two-factor authentication where it is offered and never send personal information to those they dont know. Most importantly, users need to be mindful about creating smart, strong p@$$w0rdz!. Seniors should never use names of loved ones, birthdates, or common words. Strong passwords also include a mix of upper/ lower case, numbers, and symbols.Evaluate emails Email is one of the primary tools that people use to steal information from older people online. Remember that financial institutions will never ask for account information through email, and sending account numbers, passwords or personal information is never a good idea. If a senior is not sure whether their financial institution is trying to reach them about a problem, they can always call and discuss any issues with their bank.Shop online and access social media safely One common way that information can be stolen online is through fake shopping sites. Shopping trusted vendors is helpful and there are often online reviews for merchants that will alert shoppers to potential scams. Seniors should also remember to use a credit card instead of a debit card when possible, and monitor accounts regularly for fraudulent activity. The same goes for social media accounts. Fraudsters use quizzes and faux profiles to gain access to users social media accounts by posing as another person within the network or by using the information a user has posted to try to guess secret question answers.Ask for help Seniors should not be afraid to reach out to their trusted loved ones or friends if they feel uncomfortable online or need help navigating security measures. For those concerned about the seniors in their life, they can help educate them about known scams and tactics for staying vigilant, and can help with software updates. Calling customer service at a bank or store can help clear up confusion if an email, communication or transaction looks wrong. Having a trusted team of people that can help with online issues can give seniors more confidence using the technology available to them.Comfort KeepersCan HelpOur goal is to provide uplifting in-home care that benefits seniors and their families. The individualized care plans we create for our clients consider physical goals as well as non-physical mental health needs. Our caregivers can provide companionship and support physician-prescribed exercise regimens, provide transportation to appointments and help to families that want to stay connected through technology. 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.

Are you or your parents in their 80s or 90s and need transportation?Do you or your parents have doubts about continuing to drive and do so because you are not aware of a good transportation alternative? Do you or your parents not go out in the evening because of concerns about driving at night? If any of these situations apply, iTNSunCoast is here for you!!iTNSunCoast is a Sarasota-based, non-profit organization that provides rides to individuals who are at least sixty years old and adults of any age with vision impairments. Our mission is to help individuals maintain their independence and live joyful and meaningful lives through a convenient, comfortable and affordable transportation option when driving a car themselves is not sensible or safe. Started in the Sarasota area in 2009 through a joint effort between Jewish Family and Childrens Services of the Suncoast and The Community Foundation of Sarasota County, iTNSunCoast has provided over 30,000 rides and will provide more than 10,000 rides in 2016.Do you need to go to doctors appointments, do food shopping, attend churchor temple services, or go to the hair salon? Would you like to go to lunch with friends, the theater, yoga classes, the beach, or community events? Rides are available from iTNSunCoast for any reason, any day of the week including weekends, at any time of the day or night, anywhere from Bradenton to Northport. Rides are provided mostly by volunteer drivers who use their own cars and no money is exchanged at the time of the ride. Drivers provide whatever support an individual needs to get from their home to the car and from the car to their destination.To make a ride request, you need to become a member of iTNSunCoast and call to make a ride request by noon the day before you need the ride. There is a charge for rides and iTNSunCoast makes a concerted effort to keep the cost as low as possible so rides are affordable by as many area residents as possible.Editors Note: For more information, call 941-364-7530 or visit www.itnsuncoast.org.

In recent years, pet therapy has gained increased attention, particularly for the elderly. Pets can have a calming effect on humans and benefit mental well-being. Animals can make patients more relaxed, calm, and thus more receptive to medical treatment. Research shows that people who have pets live longer.Colorado Seniors Resource Connection, a locally owned and operated free referral service for seniors, wanted to create a memorable moment for a few nursing home residents. In early September, we stopped by Life Care center of Littleton and brought two rather unlikely pet therapists. One year old alpacas Rosemary and Blossom made the trip to this lovely long-term care and rehabilitative nursing center to spread their love to a variety of willing participants.These cute and extremely soft animals were received with a warm welcome as many of the residents enjoyed petting and even feeding the cuddly creatures. A resident, normally of few words, seemed to greatly enjoy the alpacas as he wore a wide grin during the visit. A wonderful connection was established between the usually head shy Blossom as she warmed right up to the residents. Alpacas are extremely gentle creatures.First introduced to the United States from the dense South American Andes Mountain Range in 1984, alpacas have become very popular. They are easy to care for and for a life time they produce a valuable soft fleece that can be used to make high quality apparel. After the average animal lover spends a few minutes with one, they too quickly grow a strong appreciation for this loving and adorable animal.Pet-assisted therapy professionals find that in addition to cats and dogs, fish, pot-bellied pigs, birds, reptiles, rabbits, guinea pigs, goats, horses and alpacas are also valuable healers. They have found pets to reduce stress levels, give the patient a reason to interact, encourage exercise, offer a sense of intimacy, allow communications, and offer continuity in life. The innocence of animals and their capability to love makes them extraordinary. Human beings want to be part of their world, to connect with them in a mystifying and powerful way that will strengthen and nurture both humans and animals.Author:Brian W. Troccoli

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 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.

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.

As a caregiver, you may find yourself with so many responsibilities that you neglect taking care of yourself.But the best thing you can do for the person you are caring for is stay physically and emotionally strong.See the doctorVisit your physician regularly, and listen to what your body is telling you. Exhaustion, stress, sleeplessness, or changes in appetite or behavior should be taken seriously.Get movingExercise is an important part of staying healthy it can help relieve stress, prevent disease and make you feel good. But finding the time to exercise is another story.Take friends and family members up on their offers to help.You can get in a good workout in a short amount of time even a 30 minute break.Start small.While it is recommended that you get 30 minutes of physical activity at least five days a week, even 10 minutes a day can help.Exercise at home.Pull out a yoga mat and stretch, set up a stationary bike, or try exercise tapes.Find something you love.If you enjoy the activity, it will be easier to make it a habit.Eat wellHeart-healthy eating patterns are good for overall health and may help protect the brain. Aim for a diet which includes relatively little red meat and emphasizes whole grains, fruits, vegetables, fish, nuts, olive oil and other healthy fats.Manage StressManage your level of stress.Consider how stress affects your body (stomach aches, high blood pressure) and your emotions (overeating, irritability). Find ways to relax.Give yourself credit, not guilt.It's normal to lose patience or feel like your care may fall short sometimes. You're doing the best you can.Take a break.Everyone needs a break from caregiving duties. No one can do it all by themselves. Look into respite care to allow time to take care of you.We Can HelpCaregiving can be overwhelming, but you aren't alone. The Alzheimer's Association is here to help.Call our24/7 Helpline:800.272.3900Locate a support group in your area online at www.alz.org/idahoSign up to participate in the Walk to End Alzheimers or The Longest Day to help find prevention, treatment or a cure for this terrible disease. Visit our website for registration information.

To learn more aboutNamaste Alzheimer Center - CHI Living,CLICK HERE.Because people often spend a lot of time in the kitchen preparing meals, eating and socializing with friends thats a great room to start making modifications for aging-in-place comfort and safety.Safe kitchens for seniors include:Task lighting in key locations, such as the sink and stoveArrangement of most-used items at or just above the waistA hot-proof surface near the oven, with potholders or mitts nearbyPressure-balanced, temperature-regulated lever faucetsExpanded countertop spaceA clean hood rangeColor contrast of cabinets and counter surface edges for those with vision challengesA sturdy step stool with a hand rail, plus one appropriate for your weightD-type cupboard door handles that making opening and closing doors easierPull-out shelving for easy access to under-counter storageSwitches and outlets located at the front of the counterWith additional safety modifications made in other areas of your home, including your bathroom and bedroom, you may extend the time youre able to enjoy your home!If you want to begin learning about other senior living options available to you, including Independent Living, contact one of our trusted advisors who can offer the information you need to ensure you remain safe, comfortable and close to loved ones as you age.

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

An Aging Life Care Professional, also known as a geriatric care manager, is a health and human services specialist who acts as a guide and advocate for families who are caring for older relatives or disabled adults#listing_mgr{7 basic_search}#

Tucker Vision Center has been serving Lee County for over 26 years. Whether you just cant see as clearly as you used to or you need more detailed medical care to treat your eye infection, glaucoma, cataracts, dry eyes, or macular degeneration, Dr. Terry Tucker can make sure you receive the best care possible.One thing you will find at Tucker Vision Center that you will not find in any other location in SWFL are Oxy-view frames. These are frames designed for patients on oxygen. They help you eliminate the nasal cannula and better control the hoses from your oxygen tank, allowing you to lead a more active life style. If you are tired of your bifocal glasses and want bifocal contact lenses then Dr. Tucker can help you. Dry eyes are very common in patients over 60 years of age. A wet eye can be caused by a dry eye problem, so let Dr. Tucker help solve your problems with your tears.Many of your eye problems can be helped just by getting a routine vision examination. If you have not gotten a vision examination in the last year please come to our office and let us examine your eyes. Call 239-656-1778 or go to our web page at www.tuckervisioncenter.com.

Choosing to Remain at HomeLet our advance worryingbecome advance thinking andplanning. Winston ChurchillSome of us worry about the future but do nothing about it; some of us ignore it and hope for the best; and some of us are committed to a vision of the future and plan for it.As we grow older, most of us would like to remain in the comfort of our own homes and communities, having services brought to us. But that is often not viable without planning to make it a physical and financial reality. And planning is often avoided as we fear the possibility of losing our independence and needing support services.Until recently, aging adults had very few options to remain independent purchasing long term care insurance, moving to a retirement community, or paying out of pocket for care. Fortunately, things are changing and new models of long term care and planning have emerged.There are Stay at Home programs which offer support, advice and referrals for services. They do not provide care which leaves a client on his own to arrange for needed services and health care. This becomes particularly difficult with an illness or a health crisis. However, there is an alternative called Continuing Care at Home programs which combine asset protection with guaranteed care across all services. There are options that offer full spectrum services for those without long term care insurance or services that can be combined with existing long term care insurance.The programs provide a care manager who can help arrange for services when needed, either on a planned or unexpected basis, and who can serve as an advocate when navigating the health system. The programs also provide social and cultural activities in the local community rather than within the walls of a traditional retirement community.Senior Choice at Home is one of the first programs in Connecticut and the only one in Fairfield County to provide this option. Senior Choice at Home is a membership-based, long-term asset protection and healthcare services program eliminating the need to move to a retirement community. Senior Choice at Home members are enjoying the benefits of social and cultural activities as well as peace of mind that services they trust are there when they need them.and they will not need to burden their children down the road.Depending on your situation, there may also be tax advantages of joining. To learn more about Senior Choice at Home and how it might fit with your plans to remain in your home and community, please call 203-365-6491 or email SeniorChoiceHome@jseniors.org

Under optimal environmental conditions, almost every physical aspect of the brain can recover from age-related losses. --Neuroscientist Michael MerzenichNot long ago the majority of neuroscientists believed that the number of brain cells in a human brain was fixed and that there was nothing we could do to grow new ones or alter the circuitry of our brains. In recent times, this view of the brain has been completelywell, turned on its head. We now know that we all can grow new brain cells by engaging in moderate physical exercise for as little as 40 minutes three times per week (walking is fine). Weve also learned that the brain has a profound ability to rewire itself, a concept known asneuroplasticity.Neuroplasticity is the brains ability to develop and strengthen new neural pathways at a cellular level. Whenever we attempt to do something with our minds that is new or difficult, a chemical is activated in the brain called acetylcholine. This is the brains pay attention! chemical and it is associated with neuroplasticity and improved cognitive functioning.Concert violinists spend years learning to master difficult finger positions. As a consequence, the regions of their brain that control these movements are several times larger than those of non-violinists. Thats neuroplasticity.A great analogy, especially here in Colorado, is a snow covered mountain slope that has sled tracks worn from many trips down the hill. If you take your sled to the top, chances are you will follow the grooves of your previous trips down unless you use great effort to lurch your sled onto a new path. On subsequent rides, however, this new pathway becomes easier and easier for you to select. You have built a new pathway. Your brain works much the same way.To build new pathways, the key is to select things that are new and difficult. Learn to play a musical instrument or study a foreign language. Drive home a different way or attend a lecture on a topic you know little about. All of these are excellent ways to exercise your brain.Exercising your brain increases it strength, a concept scientists call cognitive reserve. This can provide a buffer against diseases like Alzheimers and dementia. One study found a 33% lower likelihood of Alzheimers disease among those who engaged in as little as one additional cognitive activity per week!And the best partlearning new things is fun!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 has served on the Denver Commission on Aging and the board of the Denver Coalition for Seniors. Active Minds programs are available in most Denver senior residential communities as well as a variety of public venues. For more information, contact Mr. Robertson at 303?320?7652 or visit www.ActiveMindsForLife.com.Copyright 2011 Active Minds. All rights reserved.

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 youre a caregiver and a perfectionist, you may be facing an uphill battle. Caregiving is a demanding job, and its critical to accept that not everything will be perfect. As a caregiver, there are many things you cannot control, and the most important thing to do is to let go of chasing perfection and simply aim to do your best.Throughout our entire lives, people, maybe even the person youre caring for, have told us that nobodys perfect. That phrase applies to caregiving more than nearly any other situation youll face throughout the course of your life. Learn from your mistakes, but also for-give yourself. If you ever practiced poor judgment, whether it was before your loved one got sick or while providing care, you need to let it go.Caregivers are under far more stress than the average person, and if you dont acknowledge that, youre far more likely to succumb to the causes of caregiver burnout. Being a caregiver is challenging and is often a role that is discounted and marginalized. If at any point you have thought or said some version of, I dont have time to relax due to your obligations as a caregiver, read on. Time is not your enemy, your to-do list is. Put it down and walk away. Really, walk away; just for a few minutes. No need to panic, it is not going anywhere. One powerful key to reducing caregiver stress lies in the wisdom of mindfulness. Being mindful is proving to be one of the most effective ways to take care of your loved one while fortifying yourself. Mindfulness is a necessary core competency for everyone. In the long run, creating space for yourself will keep you grounded and peaceful while allowing you to be of service. Small mindful changes over a period as little as a week can begin to yield positive results and include:Breath awarenessGratitude and journalingConnection to othersNurture and restFocusing on the present momentFor more tips on how to be mindful, visit our website at HomeCareAssistance.com.Editors Note: Home Care Assistance Mindfulness & Caregiver White Paper. For the complete guide, email us at hcachicagomedia@homecareassistance.com.

For people living with serious illness, palliative (pal-lee-uh-tiv) care can provide relief from symptoms and stress while improving well-being and quality of life.While there continues to be a lack of awareness and misconceptions about palliative care, a recent study by the Center to Advance Palliative care (CAPC) showed that 80% of consumers who received background information about palliative care would choose it for themselves or their loved ones.Palliative care is specialized medical care that focuses on the patients needs and honoring their wishes. The care is provided by a specially trained team of doctors, nurses and other specialist who work together with the patients own doctors to manage symptoms such as pain, shortness of breath, fatigue, loss of appetite and difficulty sleeping.Palliative care is often confused with hospice care. While both focus on comfort and quality of life, palliative care can be provided at any stage of a serious Illinois, alongside curative treatments. A patient gains the maximum benefits of palliative care when it is introduced at or near the time of the diagnosis.Hospice care is for those with a prognosis of six months or less if the illness follows its usual course, and the patient is no longer responding to curative treatment or has decided to discontinue the treatments.Once you explain what palliative care really is and all the great benefits it provides, it really resonates with people, said Michelle Bacon, Regional Director with the Transitions Group. With palliative care, people can really live their best life.Here are some other Need to Know facts about Palliative Care:Palliative care can also improve a patients ability to tolerate medical treatments, such as chemotherapy.Care can be provided in a variety of settings, including wherever a person calls home.Most insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid, cover palliative care;The palliative care team assists the patient and family with clarifying goals of care, understanding available care options and choosing treatments that align with those goals.For more information about palliative care, contact the Transitions Group at 847-515-1505 or go to www.transitionshospice.comEditors Note: This article was submitted by Lisa Encarnacion, Communications Manager with Transitions Group. She may be reached at 847-515-1505 or by email lencarnacion@transitionshospice.com

Cedarhurst of Naperville/Woodridge will be more than just a place to live it will be a place to thrive! Bordering the Forest Preserve, this three-story community will boast scenic and calming views.A senior living community with 85 assisted living apartments and 24residences equipped for memory care services, Cedarhurst of Naperville/ Woodridge is specifically designed with the best interests of each person in mind. Individualized care plans are created for each resident based on his or her needs, preferences and desires.Assisted Living apartment styles include studios, one and two bedrooms with twelve-foot ceilings, large picture windows, spacious closets and bathrooms. Each apartment is well-appointed with kitchenettes, and emergency call response systems. Common areas include an onsite wellness center featuring a rehab gym, movie theater, game/recreation room, library and much more.In Memory Care, our personalized app roach to care ensures a unique and individualized experience for those dealing with memory loss. From daily individual therapy and support to group activities and exercises, our specially trained staff offer compassionate care and attention. Our cozy neighborhood includes a family style dining room, fireplaces, outdoor veranda and comfortable private studios and companion suites with spacious bathrooms.At Cedarhurst of Naperville/ Woodridge in both Assisted Living and Memory Care all our meals are chef-prepared with flexible dining hours to meet the needs of our residents and included in the base rate. Housekeeping, maintenance and a robust activity and outing schedule are also included to help create a worry-free lifestyle for our residents.Cedarhurst aims to be a community hub, not just for our residents, but for the communities we serve. We want it to be as easy as possible for our residents to go on outings in the towns and surrounding areas where they built their lives and we want the residents of those towns to be able to visit our residents whenever they please. Many of our Cedarhurst community events are open to the public and we embrace the opportunity to enhance the lives of everyone who walks through our doors. In keeping with our core values, Cedarhursts passionate care from a trustworthy team of trained and empathetic caregivers, offers peace of mind to families and residents in a positive, approachable and respectful environment.Editor's Note: Article submitted by Anne Hoeksema Executive Director at Cedarhurst Senior Living. For more information you can reach them at CedarhurstLiving.com or 630835-0787.

Acappella, a Caring People Company, founder, Jo Alch, covers the importance of education when it comes to making healthcare decisions with Aging Life Care Specialist and Licensed Clinical Social Worker Peggy Papert and Kathleen Warshawsky, who is a registered nurse, the publisher of Seniors BlueBook, and the President of the Dallas Area Gerontological Society.Learn more about Acappella, a Caring People Company

HOW TO FIND THE RIGHT HOME CAREThere are two types of support you can have in your homehome health and home care. They sound similar, but are quite different. After a stay in the hospital, a doctor might require someone to have care at home on a short-term basis. This is home health. It could be to monitor a health problem or manage wound care, among other things a skilled nurse can do. Your doctor or hospital will arrange for home health, which is paid for by Medicare. If your doctor does not prescribe home health, and you pay for services out of your own pocket or through private insurance, you can receive home care. There are various categories of home care, such as companion/homemaker service, wheelchair escort service, nursing service, and home support aide service. When you look for home care, its important to ask the right questions. Ask about the organizations employees. Make sure the nurses are licensed and the aides are certified. The initials after a persons name designate their licensure or certification. For example, RN is for Registered Nurse; LPN is for a Licensed Nurse Practitioner; PT is for Physical Therapist; and CNA is for a Certified Nursing Assistant.Ask about the hiring practices. Does the organization conduct background checks and/or reference checks on all their employees? What about drug screening? Make sure the organization follows rigorous hiring practices.Ask about supervision of the employees. If there is a problem with an employee, what can the customer do? If an employee doesnt show up for work, what happens? You want an agency that supervises their people and provides problem solving.Ask about anything else that is important to you. If it is important to you to have the same caregiver over a period of time, ask that question.Above anything else, Make sure you choose home care carefully so you get the quality you deserve. Editors note: This information was provided by Cecile Sutherland, MS, BSN, R. She has extensive healthcare experiences gained through increasingly demanding and responsible leadership positions in nursing homes, hospitals and out patient surgery centers. Cecile can be reached at 973-746-0165

AARPs April Bulletin focused on the New Face of Health Care as its lead article. The story focused on the successful efforts of several healthcare systems to reward doctors and hospitals for taking better care of patients at lower costs.This is not only laudable, but also essential given our economy and exploding older population. Isnt it interesting that it has taken so long to learn the basic lesson that quality may actually be the best way of reducing costs?According to the article some of the factors leading to these system improvements include: a coordinated approach to primary care, electronic health records; and engaging the patient (I would say consumer) in their own care. This is precisely what Geriatric Care Managers and specifically SeniorBridge has known and implemented for years!The SeniorBridge model is built upon the concept of an integrated professional team, which assures the efficient delivery of care across settings. The Care Management team creates a consumer-centered focus that enables our professionals to individualize the plan of care based upon the health, social, financial and environmental needs of each client system. In the process of creating this team the care recipient along with his/her family and other social supports is central. The professional Care Managers help to empower the consumer to take back control of their preferences for care, ensuring consistency with their needs, culture, faith tradition and lifestyle. The approach helps to engage the consumer in decisions, which improves compliance with care and consistent follow up for treatments.A central task of this professionally led team is to assure that consumers are helped across the chasm that occurs at points of transition from primary care to hospital to rehab and back home. The Care Management team assures that accurate health and social information is transmitted to all care providers; assists caregivers to understand the social and emotional needs of the care recipient; and coordinates the timely delivery of all community services, equipment and supports.SeniorBridge also has the unique advantage of having a proprietary electronic database that enables the housing and appropriate dissemination of health and social status to better serve the consumer. This extensive information, along with monitoring changes of health status in the community assures efficient data for the physician. When the consumer goes for a doctor appointment, s/he will have real information about the clients situation in the home setting and will be able to deliver more effective care. The data assures that the Care Management team can answer questions about prevention, treatments, and lifestyle for both the consumer and the medical team. SeniorBridges coordinated approach, using electronic data systems and engaging the consumer has assured our clients the opportunity to maximize the benefits of the current health care system. The focus of our Care Manage-ment approach assures timely, efficient delivery of quality care and support for clients and their families.We believe that integrated professional teams with Care Managers in a central role will facilitate a more successful outcome for health reform this time around. Heres to your health and to quality care at the most efficient cost!Article submitted by Rona S. Bartelstone, LCSW, MSW, CMC. Senior Vice President of Care Management, SeniorBridge

On June 20, 2020 the summer solstice and the day with the most light Greater Pennsylvania Chapter residents will join advocates across the world to participate in The Longest Day to fight the darkness of Alzheimers through an activity of their choice.Together, they will use their creativity and passion to raise funds and awareness to advance Alzheimers Association care, support and research programs. The event coincides with Alzheimer's & Brain Awareness Month in June.On The Longest Day, participants will choose an activity biking, hiking, playing bridge, swimming, knitting and more to shine a light on the 5.7 million Americans living with Alzheimers disease and the more than 16 million family members and friends providing care and support. In Pennsylvania alone, there are more than 400,000 people living with Alzheimers and more than 700,000 family members and friends caring for them.Together, we can stand up to the darkness of Alzheimers. Learnmore about The Longest Day by visiting:alz.org/thelongestday to register now or select your activity.

Seniors Blue Book Article Fall 2014 Edition Stephanie Bender-Kitz, Director, Friends in Action Family Caregivers Matter! Do you know that there are more than 40,000 Treasure Valley family members-- spouses, adult children, parents and grandparents who provide care and support to ill, disabled, or frail loved ones at home? These family caregivers are de facto care coordinators, medication managers, personal and medical care providers, fiscal and legal managers, planners and decision-makers for tens of thousands of chronically ill or disabled people in our community. Our health care and social services rely heavily on family caregivers to provide care but don't address caregivers needs for training, information and support. As a result, family caregivers experience stress, depression, anxiety, and often become isolated; they have to leave jobs or reduce their work hours; they spend much of their own money to care for others; and most sobering, they can die before the person they care for. Family caregivers are the backbone of our community's health care, and they deserve to be informed, prepared, and supported! Do you know someone who is a family caregiver? A great way to help is to encourage that person to say I am a family caregiver, and I deserve to be supported! Caregivers who self-identify are much more likely to seek information and support that can help them provide care AND they are more likely to take care of themselves too. Where can a family caregiver turn for information and support? A great resource is the Seniors Blue Book. Another great resource is a nonprofit agency called Friends in Action (FIA). FIAs services help family caregivers build a "toolbox" of resources, skills and strategies to navigate the challenges of caregiving, reduce stress, connect with resources, and build confidence in their abilities. FIAs education programs (Powerful Tools for Caregivers and Living Well in Idaho) teach caregivers how to manage stress and feel less overwhelmed. Our in-home support services (Legacy Corps Caregiver Support Program) gives regular breaks to veteran and military families. The JumpStart program works with caregivers one-on-one to connect them with quality information and resources to meet their unique needs and concerns. FIAs 4th Annual Family Caregiver Conference (January 31, 2015) is a one-day education event to connect caregivers with great information, community resources, and mutual support. Many of FIAs services are provided by amazing volunteers (more than 160 of them), who extend the expertise of professional staff and allow FIA to cost-effectively serve many more caregivers. Don't hesitate to reach out to FIA and ask how we can help any family caregiver you know. We believe family caregivers matter!

The issue of driving is one many seniors and their families will face. And one that is often inevitable when there is a diagnosis of dementia. It is important to know that a person with dementia usually does not self-limit his/her own driving. And in almost every state, physicians are not required to report someone they feel is unsafe to drive. For those reasons, the burden often falls onto a family member.When trying to decide, there are many factors to consider other than memory. Families tend to focus on if the person remembers where they are going and are they at risk of getting lost. The solution may be to allow driving to continue but only to familiar locations. However, people with dementia experience deficits in several other areas that are key to driving. For example, it is common for a person to have problems with depth perception. This makes it difficult for the driver to determine how close other cars and objects are. Determining if there is time to pull out into traffic or turn before an approaching car reaches them are some of the issues faced when there is impaired depth perception.Decision making and the ability to anticipate events also becomes more problematic. A driver may see a ball roll into the road but be unable to anticipate that a child could be running for it. Or he/she may be taxed with deciding quickly what to do when an unanticipated event does occur. Divided attention also can become challenging for a person with dementia. The ability to look at the speedometer and then back at the road can be difficult. The driver may find it challenging to continue to focus on driving while giving attention to a bicyclist or pedestrian on the side of the road.If you are concerned about your loved ones driving, please discuss with his/her physician. In addition, explore the use of a driving assessment program and tools available which can help in determining abilities and limitations.Editors Note: This article was contributed by Mary Underwoods, Vice President of Memory Care Services for Artis Senior Living of the West Shore.

Your mouth is the gateway to your body. This being so, your overall health and well being depends largely on the quality of your dental health. Your teeth enable you to chew food, speak clearly and give you a winning smile. These are all things that can easily be taken for granted, until they are taken away. An active approach to oral hygiene can help you keep those things that you dont want to live without. Every day your teeth should be cleaned and protected from harm. Plaque is a filmy substance that accumulates on the teeth, which if not removed daily can soon harden and become tartar. Tartar can only be removed by a dental professional. Plaque and tartar buildup can cause cavities which erode teeth, and gingivitis, a gum disease that causes swelling and bleeding of the gums. The simple act of brushing and flossing your teeth will remove most plaque buildup; however, regular visits to the dentist are essential. The dentist can help you maintain good dental health by identifying problems and reducing the risk of them becoming worse. People should still regularly see a dentist even if they have no natural teeth and wear dentures. Dental health plans are designed to help people be proactive with their dental health. By identifying and dealing with dental problems before they start to cause pain, you will enjoy better dental health for a longer period of time.This article was written by Brian J. Anderson, V.P. of Marketing for ABI Dental Plans. He can be reached at 801-363-9575

To learn more aboutActive Home Health, Hospice and Personal Care, CLICK HERE.Active Home Health and Hospice was created with the goal of improving the standard of patient care in the home setting and actively serving those we care for in their journey through life. The ownership consists of local Registered Nurses and Healthcare Administrators that recognized a need in the community and wanted to make a positive impact on patient care. Although there are many Home Health and Hospice companies in Utah, we wanted to raise the bar by providing excellence in patient focused care. Active Home Health and Hospice is locally owned and operated, with over 25 years of combined healthcare experience. Our mission is to stand for excellence in patient service and care. We pledge to lead by example in the community by placing patient care where it belongs, above profit. We believe in hiring attentive caregivers nurtured in a culture of mutual respect and accountability. Actives employees feel empowered because their input is needed and appreciated. Our wonderful caregivers provide patients with loving, respectful, personal care in the comfort of their own home. We believe in providing end of life care with the comfort and dignity that our patients deserve. We always strive to promote the well-being and maximum independence of our patients, and above all we love those we serve! Our commitment to you and your loved ones is excellence. We are honored you would choose Active as your care team during your time of need. You have our commitment that we will place you first as we serve you through this unique part of your lifes journey. Sincerely, Your Active Care Team

Age-friendly communities enhance the quality of life for community members of every age. Baby boomers and Millennial's want affordable housing options, accessible transportation, work and volunteer opportunities in the communities where they live.Both age groups also want walk-able, neighborhoods that include conveniently located grocery stores, safe streets, well maintained healthcare facilities and safe parks. The Age-friendly community concept began in 2006, when The World Health Organization (WHO) recognized the aging population and urbanization as two global trends that will impact and shape the future of our world. To address these trends, WHO launched an international effort to help cities prepare for rapid population aging and the parallel trend of urbanization.According to the US Census, by the year 2030 nearly 25% of the population will be 65 and older. The US Census also reports that for the first time in US history, older people will outnumber children. Recognizing the need to respond to these trends in our own country, AARP and WHO are creating a network of Age-friendly States and Communities program throughout the US.What makes an Age-Friendly Community a Great Place to Live? Age-friendly communities have walk-able streets, housing and transportation options, access to key services and opportunities for residents to participate in community activities. Age-friendly communities enable everyone to do the things they value. If a community is friendly to older adults, it will be friendly to persons of all ages and abilities. Age-friendly communities have an inclusive design and policies that center around 8 Domains of Livability that make the lives of all community residents better. These Domains of Livability include access to the following: community sup-port and health services, transportation, outdoor spaces and buildings, communication and information, civic participation and employment, respect and social inclusion, housing, and social participation.Keeping in mind that 8 out of 10 adults age 50 and older want to live in the community they call home as they age, and nearly 50% of these persons believe they will stay in their home and never leave, it is important for communities to prepare for their residents to age in place. Both WHO and AARP are encouraging states and communities to prepare by focusing on the 8 Domains of Livability to ensure that as people age in their community they will have access to the community services and supports they need to provide a better quality of life.In the State of Illinois, the City of Woodstock has recently become the 360th member of the global Age-Friendly Community Network. The designation was given to the city by AARP which administers the WHOs global Age-Friendly States and Communities program. Woodstock joins six additional Illinois cities including Arlington Heights, Evanston, Champaign, Urbana, Alton and Danville. Is your community ready to become Age-Friendly? Now is the time to encourage your elected leadership to make the commitment to actively work towards making your city or county a great place for people of all ages.Editors Note: AARP offers information and helpful resources to help communities become Age-Friendly. Visit their website at https://www.aarp.org/livable-communities/network-age-friendly-communities/ or contact your local Area Agency on Aging to learn more about how to get started.

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With the Aging of America the number of people spending substantial amounts of time in nursing homes, assisted living facilities or in their home with paid home health care assistance is at an all time high and will only increase.Nursing home costs are now averaging 12,000 per month. Many families make no advanced preparation for this and these costs are driving many families into poverty.Every aging American should take the following three steps:First, make sure you have the proper will, financial power of attorney and living will and your children know where to find them. My advice is dont cut corners, hire an elder law attorney. Only a few lawyers are true elder law attorneys. They should be a member of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys. There are only 4,000 members in the United States. If he is not a member, look elsewhere.Second, make sure your children are thoroughly familiar with all of your assets, liabilities and medical experts.Finally, discuss your wishes should you become disabled. Do you want to stay at home with in home care takers, or take up residence in an assisted living facility or nursing home if appropriate. Consider hiring a geriatric care manager who can assess your needs and coordinate your long term care. Make sure you understand the different levels of care you may need, and which alternatives will fulfill that need. Also, consider whether you can afford these alternatives. Consider entering into an asset protection plan designed by a well qualified elder law attorney, so that your assets can be preserved and government programs can be tapped to pay some or all of these expenses.Knowledge is power. Advanced planning can literally save you tens of thousands of dollars. So don/t let the approaching storm catch you by surprise.Editors Note: Michael A. Manna, Esq. is a Ridgewood elder law attorney, a member of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys and can assist you in avoiding the booby traps that can devour a lifetime of savings. There is no charge for the initial consultation. He can be reached at 201-447-2800.

As an alternative to traditional burial, funeral, or cremation, whole body donation for medical research, education and training offers the chance to make a contribution that benefits others. You can help advance medicine and improve the quality of life for patients today and in the future. Most will meet the criteria for donation, including those with cancer, heart disease, arthritis and diabetes. Pre-registration is usually not required though you should check with the specific program you are considering. Plus, you can often be both a whole body donor and an organ donor.A life-affirming choice, donation is also a highly individual decision. It is important to research the program that best fits your needs and wishes. Typically the program provides cremation and the filing of the death certificate at no cost.A few areas in which whole body donors contribute to medical advances:Heart diseaseDiabetesSpinal injuriesJoint replacementsCancer researchAdvanced drug deliveryAlzheimer's researchBody Donation ProcessTypically the basic procedure for donating your body is straightforward and intended to be efficient and simple for your caregivers and loved ones. Most have similar processes:It begins with a short medical screening over the phone at the time of passing to determine if the potential donor matches current research criteria.The program will coordinate the obtaining of consent for donation and cremation and transportation to the donation facilityTissue is procured and placed with medical research and training projects.Cremated remains may or may not be available quickly for the family. In some cases the tissue not used for research is cremated and available for return within 3-5 weeks.Following donation, the family may receive information regarding research projects and the impact the donor has made to society.It is important to consider if the body donor program is accredited by the American Association of Tissue Banks (aatb.org) which is a nationwide 3rd party independent and scientifically based accrediting body to ensure the highest standards of quality, safety, and dignity for the donor and donors families. For more information on accredited organizations contact the AATB at: 703 827 9582Editors Note: This article was submitted by Melinda Ellsworth. Ms. Ellsworth is the Director of Donor Services with Science Care and may be reached at 800.417.3747 or by email at info@sciencecare.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.

Regularly scheduled hearing tests should be part of your normal health routine but are often not included as part of an annual physical.It is recommended that people over 50 have a hearing test every 5 years and over 65 every two years. Your hearing may have influence on many aspects of health.People with even mild hearing loss are three times more likely to suffer from falls. Johns Hopkins studies show that people with untreated hearing loss are three to five times more likely to develop dementia and Alzheimers as well as general memory problems. Diabetes can influence hearing so anyone diagnosed with diabetic condition should be checked upon diagnosisWomen with untreated hearing loss are almost three times as likely to suffer with depression. There is also a correlation between hearing health and cardiovascular disease. Ringing ears (Tinnitus) should also not be dismissed because it may be a sign of a much more serious health problem.We offer complimentary hearing test and tinnitus (ringing ear) assessments and will furnish you a copy for your personal medical records or send one to your primary care physician for you. Please call (239) 498-7142 today to schedule this critical evaluation!

For more information on Assisting Hands Home Care, Click Here.Holidays can be a tough time for individuals with Alzheimer's, as well as those providing them care, and other friends and family. The reality of the situation can come to light during the holidays. It may be that one or two people have been providing care and suddenly the rest of the family is exposed to the changes in their loved one. Holidays can also be the time when family comes to terms with the fact that additional help is needed for their loved one and begins to look to professional Alzheimers in home caregivers for guidance and relief.The person affected by Alzheimer's may have a difficult time during the holidays. Family in home caregivers may feel overwhelmed trying to provide care for their loved one while also keeping up holiday festivities and traditions for that person and everyone else. Even family in home caregivers who have been providing care on a regular basis may have to confront new realities when family and friends come over to celebrate and note the changes that have occurred in the manner and behavior of their loved one.In order to avoid additional stress and make for a happier holiday celebration for everyone, it may be time for the caregiver to adjust his or her own expectations, as well as the expectations of everyone else. First, the caregiver should determine what can realistically be accomplished, which traditions can continue, what may need to change, and where additional help may be needed from other family members, friends or professional in home caregivers. Often the caregivers own expectations are the most difficult ones to change. Giving ones self permission to change holiday traditions and expectations is often most difficult for the caregiver who has often assumed the responsibilities and role of the person they are caring for and who is no longer able to take on that role for themselves.Some things for the family caregiver to consider when preparing for holiday celebrations are:Having a potluck instead of a formal dinnerChanging the celebration to a lunch or brunch instead of dinner (this time can be a better for those with Alzheimer's)Whether or not alcohol will be availableIf a new location might work betterIf the host or hostess responsibilities can be transferred to someone newUsing professional services for outside food preparation or cleaningWhether or not using professional home care services to provide Alzheimer's care while holiday preparations are underway, or during the festivities themselves, will help make the individual with Alzheimer's more comfortable and less disoriented by the situation.Once the family caregiver has determined possible changes, they should be communicated with honesty and sensitivity to the rest of the family. Likely, they will need to be informed of the reasons for the changes and the situation regarding the changes their loved one with Alzheimer's has experienced. It is helpful to let family members know that their loved one can no longer think or remember things clearly and may not even know who they are, so that they can be mentally prepared as well, and be able to handle their reaction in a way that will not adversely affect the positive atmosphere of the gathering.While input from others can be considered, the family caregiver who knows the situation best should be prepared to patiently explain the reasons the changes need to be made and stand by any decisions that are not up for negotiation. This is especially true when the caregiver knows that giving in to the demands of others will actually make the situation worse for everyone.After the holidays are over, the family caregiver should take time to rest and recuperate. Arranging to have professional in home caregivers come in to provide Alzheimer's care so that the family caregiver can have a break is important. The family caregiver should take time to do something enjoyable like take in a movie, have dinner with a friend, get a massage or spend time at a park or museum.Making holiday celebrations easier for both caregiver and the relative affected by Alzheimer's can make for happier, more enjoyable occasions for everyone.

As Florida begins to open up after a long, strange spring, many seniors are wondering what they can do for fun this summer while avoiding the crowds and staying safe.The Naples Senior Center is one organization that is working hard to make sure local seniors have plenty of virtual activities to choose from. We compiled some of the highlights from their list here, plus we tossed in a few additional ideas to help you plan your socially distanced summer fun.Take Up Line DancingGet ready to hit the dance floor and steal the spotlight at your grandkids weddings next year. Popular line dances, like the Electric Slide and Cupid Shuffle, are easy to learn and a ton of fun. These instructional videos are designed with seniors in mind, so get those dancing shoes on and get ready to learn some new moves!Get Some ExerciseWe all know exercise is key to maintaining healthy bodies, but fitness also contributes to healthy minds. Lace up those sneakers, grab some water, and join one of Senior Planet's virtual group exercise classes. From chair yoga to balance and strength to tai chi, there are plenty of options to keep your body and mind fit this summer.Visit the Worlds Best MuseumsTraveling may not be an option right now, but that doesnt mean you cant experience the worlds most famous art exhibits from home. Technology transports us around the globe to take in the beautiful paintings at Muse dOrsay in Paris, see some of Vincent Van Goghs most famous pieces at the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam and be amazed by the collection of ancient sculpture, artwork, and artifacts at the Uffizi Gallery in Florence, Italy.Learn to PaintNow that youve spent some time visiting museums, you may be inspired to make your own art. YouTube is full of painting tutorials for beginners, so pick your favorite medium and get ready to create a masterpiece! Here are some resources for getting started with acrylicsand watercolors. If you are feeling adventurous, try out some of these tutorials.Spend a Night at the OperaEach day, New Yorks Metropolitan Opera will stream a different encore presentationof a performance featuring some of the worlds greatest and most talented singers. If you would like to learn more about a specific opera or the art form in general, the Met provides an educational videoseries covering a variety of topics.Take a Cooking ClassBecause restaurants arent a great idea right now, and you are probably tired of cooking the same old meals, YouTube can help you out of your food slump. With hundreds of cooking classes and videos to help you get creative with quarantine cuisine, you are sure to find a new dinner favorite, or at least have fun trying. If youre not much of a cook, never fear. YouTube is also great for learning kitchen basics.Social distancing is an important way for seniors to stay safe this summer, but that doesnt mean you cant have fun. Try one (or all!) of the ideas above or check out some of these additional activitiesto stay active and entertained.If you do need to venture out, play it safe and follow the Centers for Disease Control guidelines, like wear a mask in public, avoid crowds, and stay two arm lengths away from others to protect yourself and them. Though its hard to stay inside, especially now that summer is here, seniors need to make health and safety a priority. There is plenty of fun to be had indoors, but if the beach is calling, I hear its lovely at sunrise.Submitted and Written By: Barrington Terrace of Naples - click here for more information

We see the word prepare used throughout the stories in Sacred Scripture. Whether John the Baptist voices it or even Jesus Himself, it is offered and given as a gift of love to another person.It is presented by one loved one to another loved one, as a visible sign of true concern and care for anothers well being and has the ability to offer the recipient inner peace, comfort and consolation. It is through this ministry of preparedness that a Catholic Cemetery is not only about manicured grounds or architecturally awesome buildings nor is it about ornate entrances or fences. Many local private or public cemeteries may have the same. It is about the cycle of being through Baptism one of Gods people. The Catechism of the Catholic Church asks the question: Why did God make us? It answers it both simply and so well: He made us to know, love and serve Him in this life and to be happy with Him forever in eternity. A Catholic Cemetery embraces the mortal remains of Gods People whom we love. There are the rich among the poor, those who were old and those who were young, the famous and the unknown, husbands, wives, mothers, fathers, brothers and sisters, friends GODS PEOPLE. Thus burial in a Catholic Cemetery gives them ALL, and will give YOU a recognized IDENTITY. The identity of a CATHOLIC cemetery gives you a voice of difference without verbal words for all eternity that tells everyone who visits and passes byYES MY BELOVED BROTHERS AND SISTERS I was and I am THE LORDS!Editors Note: This article was submitted by Deacon Glenn Tylutki,BS,MA,CCE - Outreach Coordinator Catholic Cemeteries, Archdiocese of Chicago. Deacon Tylutki can be reached at 708-236-5441 or gtylutki@cathcemchgo.org

In Utah, family caregivers are the backbone of caregiving. Every child wants to help their aging parents live a comfortable life while staying in their home, but is it really possible?Aging is a fact of life. When our parents are in good health, we rarely worry about the effects of aging. However, there comes a time when the effect of aging is evident and aging seniors may need more support to keep them living in their home.Healthcare providers often hear from seniorsI want to stay in my own home.This makes sense because they have worked their whole lives to own their homes. They have raised families there and this is where they feel most comfortable.There may also be fear about living in a new place with a group of people they dont know. Those who take advantage of in-home heath care services, are able to stay in their own homes 52% longer than those without in-home healthcare. Here are 6 reasons why:More people are in the home checking on seniors more frequently to make sure they are safe and doing well.In-home doctors help evaluate changes in health conditions sooner.In-home safety assessments identify potential dangers like loose rugs and carpeting, poorly placed furniture or clutter, and provide proper safety equipment for cooking and bathing.Modern technology has helped to assist healthcare in many positive ways using devices like doorbells and motion detection cameras. Additionally, remote patient monitoring devices detect health issues like blood pressure and weight changes.Assistance with medication including pharmacy pre-packaging, medication delivery, and support to ensure that patients are taking their prescriptions as prescribed.In-home physical and occupational therapy to help keep seniors active and independent.Professional in-home healthcare empowers your aging loved one by maintaining their independence!Editors note The article was submitted by Brandi Lloyd BSN, RN, a care-navigation specialist at seniorsbluebook.com/senior-resources/amg-senior-medical-groupAMG Senior Medical Group

To learn more aboutBig Brothers Big Sisters of Utah- Northern Utah, CLICK HERE.Taking an active role in community affairs is one of the best ways to give back to society. The experience is rewarding and sometimes life-changing. Few things in life are as fulfilling as knowing that you played a role in making someones life just a little bit better. Its an accomplishment that not many can speak of. Every contribution toBig Brothers Big Sisters Utahcan make a difference.Here are 5 benefits of being involved in your community:Internal BenefitsPeople who spend their time volunteering in community development programs often are happier and more motivated. Volunteer opportunities in Utah can help you become a healthier, more wholesome person.YOU BECOME MORE INFORMEDWhether its activism, mentorship, or sponsorship programs, getting involved in your community makes youmore informedon local affairs.OPPORTUNITIES FOR GROWTHCompanies thatget involved in their communities support the local economy. They generate greater engagement between their employees, customers, and local communities. It increases awareness of their brand. Volunteer opportunities in Utah could raise the attention of your company.EXPANDS YOUR NETWORKVolunteer opportunities in Utah expose you to lots of people and organizations. It widens your network and adds to your portfolio. Networks likeBig Brothers Big Sisters Utahallow you to meet youth and other mentors or volunteers.IT TEACHES VITAL SKILLSVolunteer work often fosters skills people didnt know they had. They learn just how valuable they are to the people around them. It unlocks their potential and can help them become a new version of themselves.GET INVOLVED IN YOUR COMMUNITY TODAYThere are many more benefits gained from helping your community. Be a part of the community by getting involved in your neighborhood today. To learn more about becoming a youth mentor with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Utah, visitbbbsu.org.

Great news! Seniors who volunteer in their communities are healthier, happier, and feel more involved.A recent independent study from the Corporation for National and Community Servicefound that among seniors who serve their communities:84 percent feel their health is stable or improving78 percent experience fewer symptoms of depression88 percent feel less isolatedEven better news is that there is a program right here in Naples that is focused on helping local seniors find volunteer opportunities that are a perfect fit for their interests, talents, and expertise and provide the social engagementseniors need to thrive.The Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) of Collier Countyis part of a national program that provides volunteer opportunities for people ages 55 and older who want to remain actively involved in supporting and improving their communities.In and around Naples, RSVP members apply their knowledge and life experience to helping in the areas of disaster response and recovery, economic opportunity, environmental stewardship, education, healthcare, and support of veteransand military families.How to Find the Volunteer Opportunity That Is Right for YouWe all enter our retirement years with decades of experience under our belts. With more free time on our hands, its important to find ways to apply that experience to help others. RSVP of Collier County offers many volunteer opportunities that will put your skills to good use. The list of organizationsthat RSVP volunteers work with includes:American Cancer SocietyHelp fight back, get involved and make a difference in the fight against cancer. Volunteers help with events including the Relay for Life and annual galas. Additionally, volunteers support mailings and assemble survivor and team captain bags and sponsorship packets.Boys & Girls Club of Collier CountyPromoting the educational, vocational, and health leadership and character of boys and girls in a safe environment. RSVP volunteers serve as mentors and tutors, imparting knowledge and skills that will enable the children they serve to succeed in life.Collier County Veteran ServicesProviding veterans and their dependents with support and access to a wide variety of Veterans Affairs (VA) services. RSVP volunteers serve as drivers, transporting veterans to and from nearby VA hospitals and clinics.Family Literacy Academy of ImmokaleeProviding farmworker families with equal access to education, resources, and opportunities. RSVP volunteers serve as instructors for preschool children, provide English and basic literacy instruction for parents, provide parent and child together (PACT) time, and provide parenting and health and wellness instruction.Habitat for HumanityEliminating substandard housing by constructing, rehabilitating, and preserving homes. Volunteers can enjoy the hands-on experience of the actual building effort, or they can donate their time to Habitats well-known thrift store.Naples Historical SocietyPreserving the history of Naples through tours and preservation initiatives. RSVP volunteers guide tours, teach classes, and provide administrative support to the organization.North Collier Fire & RescueProtecting life and property from fire and other emergencies through incident response and public education. RSVP volunteers become part of a community emergency response team (CERT), organizing rescue and relief efforts during times of trouble, or simply serving local homebound seniors by providing regular grocery delivery services.Rookery BayProviding a basis for informed stewardship of estuaries in Southwest Florida through research and education. RSVP volunteers serve in the visitor center greeting and assisting guests, work on one of many restoration projects, or serve as tour guides.STARability FoundationEnhancing the quality of life for individuals with developmental disabilities. RSVP volunteers work one on one with individuals during a six-week- long life skills class, and assist with monthly events.The Benefits of Volunteering with RSVP in Collier CountyThe RSVP coordinators in Collier County offer a great deal of support to local volunteers, including:Help setting up a personal interview with the volunteer station of your choiceOngoing follow-up and support by your coordinatorAn opportunity to learn new skillsReferral informationFlexibility to change your volunteer assignment whenever you wantFree supplemental insurance while you volunteer, including personal injury, personal liability, and excess automobile liabilityInvitations to special volunteer recognition eventsSubmitted and Written By: Barrington Terrace - click here for more information

The Programs of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) provides comprehensive medical and social services to certain frail, community-dwelling elderly individuals, most of whom are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid benefits. An interdisciplinary team of health professionals provides PACE participants with coordinated care. For most participants, the comprehensive service package enables them to remain in the community rather than receive care in a nursing home. Financing for the program is capped, which allows providers to deliver all services participants need rather than only those reimbursable under Medicare and Medicaid fee-for-service plans. PACE is a program under Medicare, and states can elect to provide PACE services to Medicaid beneficiaries as an optional Medicaid benefit. The PACE program becomes the sole source of Medicaid and Medicare benefits for PACE participants.Financing for the program is capped, which allows providers to deliver all services participants need rather than limit them to those reimbursable under Medicare and Medicaid fee-for-service plans. The PACE model of care is established as a provider in the Medicare program and as enables states to provide PACE services to Medicaid beneficiaries as state option.PACE EligibilityIndividuals can join PACE if they meet certain conditions:Age 55 or olderLive in the service area of a PACE organizationEligible for nursing home careBe able to live safely in the communityThe PACE program becomes the sole source of services for Medicare and Medicaid eligible enrollees. Individuals can leave the program at any time.#listing_mgr{1 basic_search}#

Shelly Tatistcheff lives around the corner from MorningStar of Boise. She always knew the community would be a great place for her parents: Chester and Betty Ellyson. Shelly even went so far as filling out the paperwork with Director of Community Relations, Lesley Jacobson. I knew it was time for a transition. Food was spoiling in the fridge. They werent eating. But I wanted them to make the ultimate decision.One day, Lesley called to announce, Your mom is here right now, getting a tour! The next week, Chester and Betty were moved in. That was four years ago.While determined to stay independent long as able, the Ellysons were pleased to know (with MorningStars assisted living care) theyd never have to move again. That shift did become necessary with Bettys increased memory impairment. Yet Chet could continue helping his wife with a little extra help from MorningStar.Shelly recalls the day MorningStar assumed management (December 2013). Suddenly, wonderfully, Life Enrichment took a big upswing. We didnt know how underwhelming it was until it all got so much better! Chester, the extrovert, was in his element, engaged in everything the calendar had to offer. And the MorningStar bus began going to every major event in town.In July 2016, Shelly by his side, Chet passed away peacefully in his suite (Betty had passed in August 2014). But not before a steady stream of MorningStar friends filed in to tenderly say good-bye. You could tell how much they really caredthat this wasnt just their job.What an honor for MorningStar to have welcomed into the family Chester, the beloved schoolteacher, and Betty, the vibrant realtor, who together for 12 years served as missionaries, setting up libraries in impoverished areas of Europe. We are truly privileged to serve such heroes of society.

To learn more aboutSYNERGY HomeCare, CLICK HERE.Every home care agency will tell you, "they're the best." But how do you really know?If youre shopping around for in-home care for a parent, a loved one, or yourself, youre probably a little stressed about the processand quite possibly tired of every home care agency telling you were the best.Its hardbut doesn't have to be.Feel your way to reason:Heres our best recommendation to help you choose a home care agency: Read the reviews to help you feel your way to reason as you make your decision. Reviews are the windows into the core of trust, competency, and compassion---something everyone searching for the right home care agency should read.Once you've narrowed it down to a handful of agencies, how do youselect the right one?Begin your feel-to-reason by meeting the agency's staff and discussing your needs. Have a list of questions prepared. Listen. Ask. Observe. Evaluate how you feel in their presence and whether they seem like a good fit to care for your aging mother so that she is well cared for, and you can breathe a sigh of relief.Ask for a complimentary in-home safety and care assessment. During this visit, the agency will learn more about your needs to develop a customized care plan for your mother. And remember, during this time, continue to feel your way to reasonyou can't trust Mom with just anyone.

Onsite Skin Solution is the leader in mobile dermatology providing services to residents who reside in senior living communities.We specialize in the prevention, detection and treatment of pre-cancerous and cancerous growths, as well as, other dermatological conditions.Dr. Jack Jawitz M.D. is Board Certified for over 30 years and currently practices in Bradenton and Sun City. He recognized the need to provide more comprehensive dermatology services to residents. His purpose is to make the residents lives easier.What makes OnSite Skin Solution different? Dr. Jawitz uses Superficial Radiotherapy (SRT), the latest technology in treating skin cancer, unlike other mobile dermatologist. SRT is a low energy radiotherapy that penetrates only a short distance below the skin. SRT is a non-surgical highly effective, painless, and cosmetically attractive alternative to surgery inselected cancers.Editors Note: Medicare and other insurances are accepted and in-office appointments are available, please call 941.755.2255.

The Salt Lake City VA Fisher House provides a home-away-from-home for families of veterans to stay, FREE of charge, while their loved one is receiving medical treatment. Because veterans often travel long distances in order to receive medical care at the Salt Lake VA or outlying hospital, the Fisher House fulfills a critical need in a vast geographical area that is highly rural. Having someone you love seriously injured or ill is traumatic for the families and the last thing they need to be worried about is where they will lay their head to sleep or how they will pay for a hotel bill. Veterans and their families can enjoy a spectacular view of the Wasatch Mountains while they are in a comfortable environment that offers hope, community, and healing.The Fisher House was donated by the Fisher House Foundation, a unique private-public partnership. The Salt Lake City VA Healthcare System maintains the Fisher House for maintenance issues, however the Fisher House relies solely on community donations for the day to day operations of the Home. We continue and will always continue to require ongoing support to maintain this reality that all families stay for free. The Fisher House offers an easy and great way to give back to our Veterans by either donating or volunteering. We welcome individuals, families, organizations, churches, Cub scouts of any age to come and meet the families while making them a meal or doing an activity. Our wish list, or ideas, of things we most need as well as ways to volunteer can be found on our website at fisherhousesaltlakecity.com. We also need advocacy with getting the word out there and helping us find consistent support.Remember, what your home needs our home needs!Why Fisher House? Because A Familys Love is Good Medicine!Editors Note: This article was submitted by Quinn Kiger-Good, LCSW SLC VA Fisher House Manager.She may be reached at (801) 582-1565 ext 5900 or (801) 588-5900 For more information visit the websitewww.fisherhousesaltlakecity.com

For more information on the author Just Like Family Home Care, CLICK HERE.Many elderly people struggle over time with long-term and short-term memories. There are different ways to help avoid a rapid decrease of memory skills according to various studies. Below are 6 ways which might help you strengthen your memory.1. Meditate To Improve Working MemoryMeditation helps you to become mindful and gain control over thoughts. It strengthens the ability to focus and sharpens the mind. You can use the app CALM to help you guide through meditation or just follow these easy steps: The first step is committing to a regular, daily practice at a convenient time Find a quiet place to relax and sit comfortably Breathe deeply Take a few moments to settle into your body. Gently observe your surrounding with your senses (excluding your vision) Start focusing solely on breathing and the sensations around it. How the oxygen moves through your nose into your lungs and out again. Thoughts will come and go. Acknowledge them and let them go.2. Drink Coffee To Improve Your Memory Consolidation.Michael Yassa, an assistant professor of psychological and brain sciences at Johns Hopkins, and his team of scientists found that caffeine has a positive effect on our long-term memory. Their research, published by the journal Nature Neuroscience, shows that caffeine enhances certain memories at least up to 24 hours after it is consumed.Weve always known that caffeine has cognitive-enhancing effects, but its particular effects on strengthening memories and making them resistant to forgetting have never been examined in detail in humans, said Yassa, senior author of the paper. We report for the first time a specific effect of caffeine on reducing forgetting over 24 hours.3. Eat Berries For Better Long-Term Memory.In a study published in the Annals of Neurology in April 2012, researchers analyzed blueberry and strawberry intake and memory capabilities of 122,000 nurses ages 30 to 55. Data had been collected for 25 years. Participants who ate the most blueberries and strawberries showed less memory decline in later adulthood, by up to 2.5 years than non-berry eaters. A smaller study featured in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry in 2010 showed that drinking blueberry juice daily for 12 weeks improved older adults learning and memory skills by 20 percent.4. Exercise To Improve Your Memory RecallIn a study done at the University of British Columbia, researchers found that regular aerobic exercise, the kind that gets your heart and your sweat glands pumping, appears to boost the size of the hippocampus, the brain area involved in verbal memory and learning. Resistance training, balance and muscle toning exercises did not have the same results.The finding comes at a critical time. Researchers say one new case of dementia is detected every four seconds globally. They estimate that by the year 2050, more than 115 million people will have dementia worldwide.5. Chew Gum To Make Stronger MemoriesThere are three main potential explanations, says Scholey. In March 2000, Japanese researchers showed that brain activity in the hippocampus, an area important for memory, increases while people chew but it is not clear why.Recent research has also found that insulin receptors in the hippocampus may be involved in memory. Insulin mops up glucose in the bloodstream and chewing causes the release of insulin because the body is expecting food. If insulin receptors in the brain are involved in memory, we may have an insulin-mediated mechanism explaining our findings but that is very, very speculative, Scholey says.But there could be a simpler answer. One interesting thing we saw in our study was that chewing increased heart rate. Anything that improves delivery of things like oxygen in the brain, such as an increased heart rate, is a potential cognitive enhancer to some degree, he says.But a thorough explanation for the findings will have to account for why some aspects of memory improved but others did not, Graham says. She points out that gum-chewers ability to quickly decide whether complex images matched images they had previously been shown was no better than the controls.6. Sleep More To Consolidate Your Memories.Researchers have tested this process by teaching people new skills and then scanning their brains after a period with or without sleep. When people have a chance to sleep, for example, after practicing a skill similar to piano scales, the centers of the brain that control speed and accuracy are more active than those regions in people who havent slept. Scientists think that while we sleep, memories and skills are shifted to more efficient and permanent brain regions, making for higher proficiency the next day. In fact, sleeping shortly after learning new information has been shown to help retention. Some research indicates that when people learn before going to sleep (or even before taking a nap), they remember the information better in the long term.Keep in mind that our home health care professionals can always assist with activities to improve your wellbeing. Benefit from Just Like Familys yearlong experience as a home health care provider here in Naples, FL.

For more information on Care Patrol, CLICK HERE.Chuck worked as a hospital-based home health medical social worker. One of his roles was to ensure seniors who were discharged from the hospital had supportive services in place for home care or assisted living. The other was to help the Senior in their transition back home or to assisted living. He received a call from his boss that would change his life forever.She told him that the home health agency just signed up a new client who was demanding to leave the facility her daughter placed her in. She was threatening violence, and Chuck needed to get to her immediately. Chuck knew the community well, as it was known for dementia and Alzheimers care.When he arrived, he met Arlene, a 74-year-old woman who demanded, Get me out of here. I dont belong here. He engaged her in conversation for a few minutes, enough to be able to ascertain that she did not have a memory issue in fact, she was completely alert and quite well oriented with her surroundings.After digging in, he learned that Arlenes daughter had placed her in this facility because it was the only one she knew, since she drove past it every day on her way to work.Arlene begged Chuck to help her get out of this place; she knew she didnt belong with the others. Its what inspired Chuck to start CarePatrol, a senior living placement service that enables families to get the proper resources and recommendations on appropriate senior housing solutions that match a seniors budget, preferences, acuity, and lifestyle.The Challenge of Senior Living Community SelectionOne of the most important considerations we face as we age is where to live. Eventually, senior living communities become the best choice, but the choices are nearly endless. In the U.S. alone, there are over16,000senior living campuses. Among these campuses are varying levels of costs, care, and specialties. Since75% of seniorshave at least one chronic health condition, finding the right living community is essential for enjoying a comfortable, safe life in our golden years.Finding the right senior living facility is a challenge that many families face. Often, selecting senior living is left to the families, caregivers, or seniors themselves. Typically, the people responsible for setting up a senior living situation are overwhelmed and lack the resources they need to make the best decision.Jules, one of 10 children, had her mother move in with her after she got sick and needed someone to look after her. In reality, Jules went to work every day, and no one was home to tend to Mom until after dinner. Shed experienced multiple falls, to the point they decided to seek out alternate living arrangements where her mom would have on-site resources, such as independent living.Great in concept, except Mom still fell, and no one was around to check on her until the next day and she spent all night on the floor in pain.Jules sought out hospital resources, social workers, palliative care, no one had an answer.No one could let her know what they should be doing.It is daunting and challenging for families to see their parents or loved ones need increasing levels of care as they rapidly progress through the disease. It is very difficult to anticipate how people age and what physical or mental issues could arise.Sometimes, families are forced to make unrealistically fast decisions regarding senior living. The result is that many seniors do not end up in the safest or happiest environment for their individual needs.Safe Senior Living with CarePatrolCarePatrol was developed to address the gap between the resources people have and the resources they need to choose the best senior living for their relatives or themselves. Unfortunately, these stories are not the exception; they are similar to what happens to seniors and their families on a daily basis.CarePatrol offers the extra set of information you need to choose the right senior living environment. We evaluate your situation and recommend the best fit for you. We pre-screen over 36,000 care providers nationwide so that we know their strengths, their budgets, and the clients who they can best serve. CarePatrol is completely free and a no-cost service to the family because we are compensated by the tens of thousands of providers in our network.

Elder law is a legal term coined to cover an area of legal practice that places an emphasis on those issues that affect the growing aging population.The purpose ofelder lawplanning is to prepare theelderlyperson for financial freedom and autonomy through proper financial planning and long-term care options.#listing_mgr{7 basic_search}#

Addiction rates are increasing in people older adults. 17% of this age group struggles with substances and by 2020 the number is expected to double. Prescription overdose deaths in older adults outrank heroin overdoses in young people.The term accidental addict is often associated with adults 50 years and older who develop problems with alcohol or other drugs. They may have prescriptions for prescription pain pills, sleeping pills or anti-anxiety medications. Mix that with more free time, isolation, their usual one or two drinks along with a slowing metabolism and the potential for addiction becomes greater.Stigma, shame and denial prevent people from getting help. Or sometimesits difficult to distinguish between the signs of aging and those of alcohol or other drug misuse, delaying necessary treatment.If you have concerns about your own potential for addiction or a loved ones, reach out to a professional who knows both addiction and the needs of people over 50. If treatment is needed, find a program designed specifically for people over 50. The good news is that people respond quickly when they get the right help.

This refers to what happens if someone gets hurt on the job. If the company isn't insured, then the claim gets filed against the homeowner's insurance. If the company is insured, then the claim gets filed against the company's insurance.#listing_mgr{1 basic_search}##listing_mgr{8 basic_search}#

I have helped over 100 seniors move into retirement communitiesthey all say they wish they had done it sooner. Change is hardeven the changes we really want and look forward to. You have worked hard on your home over the years; now let that equity work for YOU, to provide a lifestyle that is more in step with where you want to be at this different stage of your life!But what do you do first? You call a Senior Real Estate Specialist (SRES) with over 30 years experience. This is a good first step in the decision to move to a retirement community.Perhaps you are wondering..How much is my house worth? You and your SRES will review recent sales in your area and come up with a price range. Review an accurate days on the market study. Ask your SRES to prepare an estimate of how much money you will net at closing. Give this information to your investment counselor to help you determine how you can use the interest from the investment to subsidize your income.What if my house needs work? Many buyers want as is properties.but if your home needs work to go on the market have your SRES help you get estimates. Or maybe a pre-listing inspection would fill the bill.What about all my stuff ? there are excellent resources available to help seniors downsize.a good estate liquidator will help you get top dollar for the items you will not need in a smaller space and professional companies are available to help organize your move down to every detail.Is it a good time to sell? Absolutely! Rates are low and buyers are abundant! Your house will not be in competition with distressed properties! Find an SRES with a cutting edge marketing program that will get your house sold!How do you coordinate the move-in date with the sale of your house? Many seniors have found that moving into their new apartments and letting their homes be shown vacant is the most convenient. It is easier to show your house and a lot less stress on you.Article submitted by Sandi Hewins SRES, Metro Brokers. She can be reached at 303-887-2509 or on the web atwww.denverseniorrealestate.com

To learn more about Intermountain Homecare and Hospice,CLICK HERE.What is MS?Multiple sclerosis, or MS, is a disease that affects the brain and spinal cord. It can cause problems with vision, balance, sensation, and muscle control. This disease affects everyone differently. Some people have mild symptoms while others have debilitating symptoms that prevent them from doing daily tasks.Multiple sclerosis occurs when the immune system attacks the nerves in your brain or spinal cord. When the nerves become damaged the brain isnt able to send signals through your body correctly.How can you recognize and MS attack?Relapsing MS is characterized by the unpredictable occurrence of new attacks. These attacks are sometimes also called an exacerbation, a relapse, or flare. An attack involves new neurological signs and symptoms, which typically develop over a few days and subside or completely resolve over the ensuing weeks and months. Symptoms from MS attacks include:NumbnessWeaknessIncoordinationVisual loss or double visionDizzinessThe most common symptom of an MS attack is numbness or sensory loss. Numbness occurs when the immune system attacks an area of the brain conducting sensory information to the body. If an attack occurs in an area of the brain transmitting motor information to the limbs, a person may experience weakness in the limbs. Double vision or dizziness may also occur from an MS attack.In patients who have MS it is important to distinguish a true attack from a pseudoexacerbation. A pseudoexacerbation is when signs and symptoms from an old attack can worsen or reemerge from other causes. Common causes for pseudoexacerbation include a new illness, elevated body temperature, fatigue, stress, and pain. How is MS diagnosed?Multiple sclerosis is a clinical diagnosis made when there is evidence of immune system attacks on the brain and spinal cord. A neurologist looks for evidence of these attacks in a person's symptoms, examination, and MRI scans. Attacks typically leave scars in the brain that are visualized on MRI. Scars from MS have a characteristic appearance and pattern that must be carefully discerned from other causes. The presence of inflammatory and protein markers in the cerebrospinal fluid can also help support the diagnosis.How do you treat MS?MS treatment has three parts:Treating attacksDisease modifying therapy to reduce the likelihood of more attacksTreatment of residual symptoms from prior attacksMS attacks are treated with high dose steroids over 3-5 days. Treating attacks with steroids helps decrease the duration and intensity of symptoms.Disease modifying therapy (DMT) is central to the care of people with multiple sclerosis. DMTs are the best strategy to alter the course of MS. Clinical studies have demonstrated that DMTs:Reduce the occurrence of attacksSlow progression of disabilitySlow cognitive declineUntil recent years, only a few injectable medications were available to prevent MS attacks. Now there are many additional medications and these are more effective at preventing attacks. Some medications are oral pills and others are infusions.Management of MS also includes treating unresolved symptoms from prior attacks. For example:Physical therapy helps with motor weakness and instabilityUrinary urgency or incontinence may be alleviated with medicineExcessive stiffness in muscles from nerve injury may be alleviated with medicinePainful sensory loss or disturbance may be treated with medicineWhat is on the horizon for MS?We are in an exciting era of treatment for MS. In recent years, several new treatments have been FDA approved, including the first ever treatment for a rare form of MS calledprimary progressive. Many additional therapies are being studied and hold promise in treating MS. In addition to novel oral medications and infusions, stem cell transplant is showing promise as a treatment for MS. In stem cell transplant, a patients stem cells are used to "reset" the immune system with the hope of eliminating the overactive inflammatory activity in MS.Did you know?National Multiple Sclerosis SocietyandMultiple Sclerosis Association of Americaare reliable sources for accurate information regarding MSWeighing only 3 pounds and operating on 12 watts, the brain sends electrical signals over 200 mphThe nervous system is capable of detecting grooves as small as two millionths of an inch, discerning differences as small as 0.01 degree Fahrenheit, and differentiating more than seven million colors

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.

For more information on the author, BrightStar Care, CLICK HERE!In honor of National Family Caregivers Month, BrightStar Care took a look at the most popular family caregiver activities across the country. Based on national search data from Google, gardening with seniors is popular in the South region.No matter your age, gardening does wonders for the body and mindit reduces stress, enhances fine motor movements, and may even help those living with dementia. Take a cue from family caregivers in the southern states, who enjoy spending time with their loved ones outside, exercising their green thumbs in gardens large or small. In the South, warmer temperatures mean that gardening is a great activity to do with your loved one all year long. Discover the tips and benefits of gardening with seniors from BrightStar Care.Physical Benefits of Gardening with SeniorsGardening for seniors can be an excellent way to enjoy a little physical activity. From a physical standpoint, gardening is comparable to light exercise. It helps with blood circulation and mobility. Small motor movements, like using pruning shears, are great for maintaining digit dexterity, especially in loved onesexperiencing arthritis. Depending on what you decide to grow, gardening can also yield a large number of nutritious fruits and vegetables.Consider creating raised garden beds or using vertical planters against a trellis or wall. Itll be easier on you and your loved ones back and knees to not have to stoop or kneel while gardening. Dont be afraid to modify gardening tools for seniors; use tape or foam to make tool handles more comfortable for your loved one to hold. Also, be sure to take plenty of water breaks in the shade and wear a hat and sunscreen to protect from the suns powerful rays.Mental Benefits of Gardening with SeniorsStudies have shown that gardening is a great way to relieve stress and lower blood pressure, as well. Just being out in nature can help loved ones recover more quickly from an illness. Gardening is a fantastic social activity, too. Invite grandchildren or neighbors to help pull weeds, prune plants, or enjoy fresh produce from the garden alongside you and your loved one.Recent research has shown that gardening might be one of the best activities for individuals living with dementia. While gardening cannot repair concentration or undo memory loss, it can boost mood and sociability. It also gives individuals living with Alzheimer's a sense of purpose and, in turn, a feeling of achievement when its time to harvest the garden. Those caring forindividuals living with dementiacan help them recall more pleasant memories through the simple act of gardening.

Seniors have more housing options than ever, from the booming tiny house market to roommates and retirement communities. Senior living communities, however, remain a popular choice.What makes these communities so popular? Here are some common reasons. No need for Lawn Care or Home Maintenance.No two residences are exactly alike, but one common feature is that residents dont have to worry about household chores, repairs or lawn care. Tailor Amenities to Seniors Needs.Most residences offer a variety of amenities, and residents choose the level and type of care they receive. It Helps Preserve Family Relationships.Caregiving is an important job, but it is also exhausting. Disagreements about caregiving can cause tension and strained relationships among families. By taking on many caregiving duties, senior residences allow family members and their loved ones to spend more relaxed, enjoyable time together. Living Communities Encourage Safety.Secure entrances, monitoring, and the constant presence of other people in the community encourage safety. Most living centers also provide residents with some type of alert system to request help in case of an emergency, such as a fall. They Offer Many Activities.Art, fitness, and outings are common at most residences. Socializing is Encouraged.iLoneliness can be a serious problem among older adults, but it doesnt have to be permanent. Senior living communities offer many opportunities for socialization, from coordinated activity schedules to simply having coffee with a neighbor. They are built for Accessibility.Because they are built with seniors in mind, these communities are accessible to people at all mobility levels. Doorways, rooms, and hallways can accommodate wheelchairs. They Come in All Varieties.There are many different options for senior living, depending on your loved ones needs. Options include active-adult communities, assisted living, memory care and skilled nursing care. Seniors Can Consolidate and Even Reduce Expenses.Senior living communities are not inexpensive. They do, however, include many services and amenities. Communities also offer the convenience of a single monthly fee for benefits like housekeeping, meals, cable TV, and social activities. Because they often include transportation services, residents usually dont need a car, further reducing expenses.Editors Note: This article was submitted by Tina Mitchell, Executive Director of Senior. She can be reached at 630-242-2988 or tmitchell@randallresidence.com.

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

To learn more aboutChancellor Gardens at Clearfield - MBK, CLICK HERE.Moving in to Senior LivingWe understand the unique challenges that seniors and their families face as they weigh the pros and cons of moving into a senior living community. We also understand that there is so much more to senior living than what most people perceive and see in the news which, if were being honest, isnt evenabout senior living communities.What we do know is that older adults find independence and thrive in senior living environments. Isolation, the burden of home maintenance, the lack of connection during COVID-19 and more weighs heavy on seniors and their families. Inour communities, you or your loved one wont be alone. Youll find friendship, convenience, comradery and care.Here are some of the reasons why Chancellor Gardens is a great place to call home right now:Resident enrichment We are continuing to maintain a calendar full of events for our residents to partake in. Plus, we are creative when it comes to staying connected. Socially distanced events and games, outdoor activities, virtual activities all are enjoyed at our communities!Culinary experience Our residents get to choose from a menu of wonderful meal options that are prepared fresh for them, three times a day. What could be better than chef-prepared meals, delivered right to your door?Care The peace of mind and the security of knowing someone is available 24/7 to attend to the needs of your loved ones. While they enjoy the privacy of their own home, theyre never truly alone with 24/7 staffing and of course, neighbors to keep you company!Service-enriched lifestyle We are continuing to offer housekeeping/laundry services, maintenance requests, and can even accommodate special concierge requests for our residents so they can truly enjoy a maintenance-free lifestyle.Heightened protocols Our communities have more than 20 protocols in place to keep our residents and team members safe. To read a detailed list of these protocols, please visit ourCoronavirus information page.

We are thrilled to report that the first round of vaccinations havebeen completed in almost all of our Inspired Living and Superior Residences communities, and the rest of the first clinics are scheduled for completion before the end of this month. As wonderful as that news is, the reality is thatthese months have been difficult. For our residents, not seeing their loved ones inperson has been heartbreaking.So now the question is when can we stop by for a visit?The answer can be complicated. Restrictions vary by state, and senior living communities must err on the side of caution. Outdoor visits with grandparents are the best bet, and those visits can only happen if the community has been free of COVID-19cases for 14 days.Experts say that, once most residents in a senior living community are vaccinated, it is generally safer to loosen some restrictions but masks continue to be mandatory. Also, remember that the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines both require two injections - the initial shot and a booster three or four weeks later. The protection these vaccines provide takes time, so visits should be delayed until at least two weeks after the second shot is administered.Ideally, all visitors should receive their vaccinations before they come near their loved ones. Since shots will not be widely available for a few months, it may be best to wait until all who plan to visit have received their vaccinations.As adult children, we need to recognize that our moms and dads have a much higher risk for getting very sick from COVID-19 notes Courtney Hancock, Corporate Director of Clinical Strategy for Validus Senior Living, adding the vaccine provides protection, but another first line of defense is to keep our guardup. Families should encourage their loved ones to get vaccinated, and everyone should continue to wear masks, wash their hands well and often, and practice social distancing.Remember Florence Nightingale? In the mid-1800s she recognized the importance of handwashingas the best way to prevent the spread of infection and disease. Her simple advice brought a dramatic decline in hospital mortality rates, and today still rings true.At Inspired Living and Superior Residences, we follow CDC guidelines, requiring mask usage, hand hygiene, and social distancing to control the spread of COVID-19 and other illnesses. In addition, we have instituted additional rigorous disinfecting measures including the use of foggers, UV light sanitization, and telemedicine (when possible), to help us mitigate widespread infection in our communities.Says Courtney Hancock, The key to weathering this pandemic, is to not become complacent. Even though we are all tired and ready to get life back to normal (or our new normal), it is imperative we continue to act as we did in early 2020. Not letting our guard down will be paramount to continued success in battling this invisible enemy.For answers to visitation questions specific to your Inspired Living or Superior Residences community, please contact the community's executive director.Submitted By: Inspired LivingWritten By: Elisa Graber

In the Pikes Peak region, the population of 65+ is set to increase by 160%, while the population of 85+ is set to increase 337%. This is a national trend with potentially huge ramifications on the local level as baby boomers age in place, and older Americans move to be with their baby-boomer children.Innovations in Aging Collaborative was formed with the goal of breaking down silos, spurring substantial conversation around what the silver tsunami would mean for the Pikes Peak region, and looking at innovative, collaborative ways to prepare. In March 2016, Colorado Springs was accepted into the network of Age Friendly Cities by AARP and the World Health Organization. By doing so, we have committed to putting in the time and effort to make our city more Age Friendly. To be Age Friendly means to be a community where the oldest and the youngest community members can live full, engaged, and active lives. For example, the old and young are often unable to drive, which means that they are often stranded in a car-centric transportation system. To connect to community activities, maintain social networks, and perform basic activities to living, they must depend on either a public transportation system, safe walking paths, or other people to drive them. Similarly, as people age, they often want to downsize their home while remaining in their community. Having smaller, accessible housing for this population is part of allowing individuals to age in community and continue contributing in ways that benefit everyone.We work to affect change by partnering with community leaders in the non-profit, governmental, and for-profit sectors. By doing so, we have managed to incubate several successful programs that focus on aging well in Colorado Springs. One excellent example is the Age Friendly Business Certification program that is now part of the Better Business Bureau of Southern Colorado. Look for that badge on local businesses and visit their website to check out the list of certified Age Friendly Businesses. Visit our website to learn more about other initiatives and how you can get more involved in making our city Age Friendly!Editors Note: This article was submitted by Innovations in Aging Collaborative and may be reached at 719-602-3815.

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}#

Moving is stressful enough but moving a senior out of a home they love can be downright traumatic.Unlike traditional moving companies a senior relocation service isnt just a pack up and move them company. They also help clients with the grieving component of these moves and patiently calm fears by working alongside seniors and their families as a trusted partner in their transition.Families who have hired a Move Manager will tell you it was worth every penny even if you only considered the time and hassle they were saved. These services are much more affordable than you might think which is why seniors in other states have been hiring them for years.5 reasons you should call a Move Manager:1) Adult children are often busy or might live far away. A local senior move manager can take on the responsibilities of getting the move completed. This reduces stress on everyone allowing families to just be family.2) Most seniors have spent decades accumulating personal belongings. Hiring someone who is not emotionally attached can speed up the process & reduce tensions between family members.3) An unfortunate part of getting older is reduced strength, balance, and flexibility. Move Managers understand the special limitations of older adults which can reduce the possibility of injuries and accidents as they work together.4) Move Managers know the complexities of transitioning into a retirement community. They can design a floor plan to help with furniture downsizing decisions. Services also include unpacking, setting up furniture, hanging pictures and even hooking up electronics.5) They have a wide network of trusted professionals. Many families need help with things like finding the right retirement community, buying furniture, or emptying out a home and getting it ready to sell. Whatever your needs they can assist you in locating the right local person for the job.Editors Note: This article was submitted by Scott Meyer of CareMove who has been helping transition Utah seniors out of their homes for 7 years. Contact him at 801-820-2010 or by email: scott@care-move.com

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

Musictaps deep memories notlost to dementia and can bring those suffering from dementia back to life, enabling them to feel like themselves again, to converse, socialize and stay present. Most people suffering from Dementia have short term memory loss, so tapping into their long-term memories canhave an amazing impact on mood. Since music is linked to emotion, our brains connect music with long term memory.Music has the power to transport us back to another part of our story, to connect us, to make us feel seen and understood. One does not have to be especially musical to respond to music, to recognize music, or to react to music emotionally, shares the late neuroscience legend Dr. Oliver Sacks. Virtually everyone does, and they will continue to do so with dementia. Music opens the door to engagement. What is happening that elicits this universal and emotional response to music? As neuroimaging continues to improve, in addition to researchon living with dementia, a picture of what is happening is beginning to emerge. What seems to happen is that a piece of familiar music serves as a soundtrack for a mental movie that starts playing in our head, explains Petr Janata of UC Davis Center for Mind and Brain. This phenomenon lasts through the journey of dementia. The part of the brain activated by music is the medial prefrontal cortex, which is often one of the last parts of the brain to be changed by dementia. Janata has seen music open new pathways to memories thought lost. The parts of the brain which respond to music are very close to the parts of the brain concerned with memory, emotion, and mood. So familiar songs will bring back memories.The best music for your loved one living with dementia is the music that helps you connect with them. Here are some tips for beginning the search for music that connects to the heart of any person.Ask What are some of your favorite songs? or What song would you love to hear right now? Thanks to music streaming, most songs are readily available.Create playlists for different moods or life stages. Music can calm, energize, help us grieve, and more. Be mindful about what music you play and when.If verbal communication is limited, use trial and error. When a song clicks with the individual, add it to the playlist.A good place to start is with songs from when the person was between 18 25 years old. Depending on what years were most transformative for them, move forward and backward within the time frame or decade youre exploring.Find songs in your loved ones native language and recordings by the original artist. Try finding live recordings of a concert you know they went to and was important to them.Anecdotally, the positive effects of music are endless. Stories of improved mood, reduced anxiety, subsequent medication reduction and deep connections abound. Formal research is now starting to catch up. The takeaway? Music is amazingly powerful but only with human connection and a nurturing supportive environment.'Editors Note: This article was submitted by Home Care Assistance Collin County.

For the most part, Utahans are a healthy bunch. Average life expectancy in the Beehive State is 79 the third highest in the nation. But helping people stay healthy and independent as they age requires expertise.The Senior Clinics at Intermountain Healthcare are much more than a doctors office. These clinics specialize in helping people age 65 and older to maintain and improve their quality of life. Clinic staffers do this by paying attention to the needs of the whole individual, not just their medical problems. Senior Clinic employees are also on the alert for common risks, including the three main causes of premature disability and death:1. Difficulty in managing multiple chronic illnessesOften seniors find it challenging to manage multiple illnesses. Intermountain Senior Clinics are in a unique position to coordinate care for a variety of conditions, including arthritis, chronic pain, diabetes, heart disease, and memory loss.2. Problems managing medicationsSeniors may see several physicians and specialists who prescribe different treatments and medications. Some medications may actually counteract the benefits of other drugs. A Senior Clinic physician can evaluate all of a seniors medications and address these concerns. 3. FallsWhen seniors fall, they are often hurt both psychologically and physically. Twenty-five percent of older adults lose confidence and avoid movement after a fall. That can lead to the development of other conditions, such as pneumonia. Fall prevention is a necessary part of treating seniors. The Senior Clinics assess a patients risk of falling at each visit.In addition to these services, the Senior Clinics also provide: Timely appointments Acceptance of Medicare and most Medicare Advantage plans Longer appointments to allow time for questions and a thorough exam A board-certified physician and a nurse practitioner trained in geriatric care Help with memory loss Diabetic management and instruction Laboratory services, including blood and urine tests Nutritional counseling for cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and weight loss or gain Assistance with community resources, memory screenings, advanced care planning, referrals for home healthcare, medical equipment, and moreTo learn more, visit www.intermountainseniors.org. Or call one of our clinics directly:Alta View Hospital Senior Clinic9720 S. 1300 East, Suite E240Sandy, UT 84094801-501-2025Intermountain Senior Clinic5770 S. 250 East, Suite 210Murray, UT 84107801-314-4544Editors Note: This article was submitted by Carol Wilcox, LCSW.Carol is the manager of the Alta View Hospital Senior Clinic and may be reached at 801-501-2025.

Life Transitions, such as dealing with health issues, getting divorced, taking care of aging parents, and becoming widowed are part of all of our lives. Everyone is likely to go through at least one of these life changers. The real key to successfully navigating lifes transitions is being ready for them, and then understanding what is happening while its happening.Just like getting ready for a camping trip or a tour of Italy, getting ready for life means being prepared. Taking the time to think about things before they happen so you are ready for what might be is the most important step you can take. We all know that the root of most stress is feeling like we are out of control. Its the unknown that does us in. When we know what we are dealing with, or have thought about What happens if then we feel like were in charge. But, most of us tend to procrastinate and avoid preparing.Because we avoid preparing for life transitions in advance, we often feel overwhelmed as life happens. A family transition coach can be helpful whether you and your family are planning ahead or, as is so often the case, dealing with a transition as it is unfolding. As an objective third party, your coach will provide focus and have experience with others who have gone through similar transitions. Your coach will be knowledgeable about the many resources that are available to you. A family transition coach can be engaged by the family or by one family member, and coaching can occur by phone or in person.Some situations where a family transition coach can be of service include when an adult child realizes that his or her aging parent can no longer stay in his own home due to health and/or memory issues. Or, a coach can be helpful when a decision has been made to divorce and there are many decisions to be made in a short period of time. Often, when a spouse has died, the surviving spouse is serving as Personal Representative and is uncertain about the many steps and decisions required to settle the estate and move on with his or her life.LifeBridge Solutions provides family transition coaching, along with specific services including daily money management, insurance claims advocacy, senior move management, and estate administration support.For more information, visit www.LifeBridgeSolutions.com.

Cooking for one or even two, presents challenges as we age. It can be dif?cult to shop and prepare healthy, well-balanced meals on a daily basis. Did you know the Older Americans Act provides grants to State and community senior organizations to help provide a healthy, well-balanced meals for older adults?Through the Community dining and home delivered meal programs, seniors struggling with isolation and loneliness or those who have difficulty buying or preparing meals for themselves have two great options! Older adults who have transportationcan get a healthy meal and spend time with friends in a community dining setting. Homebound seniors, unable to shop, prepare or obtain meals, can also receive a nutritious meals delivered to their homes up to five days per week, often by a friendly volunteer. Community dining meals and those offered to homebound older adults are approved by Registered Dietitians and provide 1/3 of the daily nutrition needs of the average older adult. Older Adults must be 60 and older to qualify to receive meals or be a disabled person or spouse residing with an eligible individual. There is no income or asset requirementfor community dining or home delivered meals. A suggested donation is requested and appreciated for all meals, however it is also not required. No one is denied a meal if unable or unwilling to contribute. While the importance of offering nutritious meals to older adults cannot be overstated, having the opportunity to join others for a meal in a community setting is a great way to get out of the house and see other people. No one likes to eat alone and having the ability to join others who are the same age, with a similar history and experiences can make for an enjoyable dining experience!For homebound seniors, having a friendly face greet them each day while delivering a nutritious meal, can be something to look forward to and serve as a daily well-being check. For more information on Community and home delivered meals, a contact list has been provided. If your County is not represented on this list, please call your local Agency on Aging and they will be able to assist you.Editors Note: This article was submitted by Leslie Edstrom, Community Planning Division Manager for The Agency on Aging Northeastern Illinois. Leslie has a Masters Degree in Public Administration with a specialization in Gerontology.

At the NCH Wound Healing and Hyperbaric Centers healing wounds is all we do. We have extensive experience using advanced wound healing therapies. Our healthcare team is trained by nationally recognized wound care experts and all of our doctors and nurses all dedicated to healing chronic wounds. The causes of wounds are complex, and our group represents expertise in all of the major areas necessary to handle your varied circumstances and challenges. Whatever it takes for healing to occur, were equipped and staffed to make it happen.The NCH Wound Healing and Hyperbaric Centers specialize in the treatment of chronic wounds and non-responsive conditions, offering hospital-based outpatient wound care and hyperbaric oxygen therapy as well as disease management and diabetes care. The NCH Wound Healing and Hyperbaric Centers offer highly specialized treatments including hyperbaric oxygen therapy, negative pressure wound therapy, bio-engineered skin substitutes, biological and biosynthetic dressings and growth factor therapies. The staff at the NCH Wound Healing and Hyperbaric Centers is committed to healing patients with chronic wounds by utilizing an evidence based approach to treatment with a variety of advance therapies. In addition to tissue oxygenation, the center also employs the use of vascular studies, tissue culturing and pathology, revascularization, skin grafting and clinical or surgical debridement.Conditions treated include diabetic wounds of the lower extremities, pressure ulcers, soft tissue radiation injuries, necrotizing infections and compromised skin grafts and flaps.The NCH Wound Healing Centers treats patients with chronic and advanced conditions which have not responded to previous therapies. After performing a thorough exam of a new patients wound, including taking photographs to track wound healing progress, the centers clinical staff becomes a partner with the patients doctor. Through regular reports and phone calls, the center works with the patients doctors and other experts in the program to develop a total approach to treatment and care. Evidence-based and best practice driven treatments mean patients do not undergo any treatment or progress to a new level of treatment until the need is clearly indicated. Patients may self-refer; in most instances treatments are covered by Medicare, Medicaid and most insurance plans without requiring a referral.Editors Note: This article was submitted by NCH Healthcare System Wound Healing Centers. With several locations to serve you, call 239-495-4995 for more information.

Recently, the State of Colorado implemented new licensing regulations for home care providers providing services within the state. There are definite and defined distinctions between Home Health Care Agencies and Non-Medical Home Health Care Agencies. Below are definitions directly from the Colorado Department of Health's website:Home Care Agencies provide medical and non-medical care services in homes or alternative community settings. The Health Facilities and Emergency Medical Services Division is responsible for monitoring and evaluating the quality of health care services provided by licensed and certified home care agencies. Home care agencies provide a wide range of health and social services to persons recovering from an illness or injury, or persons who are disabled and/or chronically ill. They may provide medical services such as nursing, social services, and therapeutic treatments (physical, speech, occupational therapy). They also may provide non-medical services like help with bathing, dressing and eating.Non-Medical Home Care Agencies include two programs that can be certified by the Home and Community Based Services Medicaid waiver, specifically: In-Home Support Services and Personal Care Homemaker (IHSS). IHSS include attendant assistance with health maintenance activities, support for activities of daily living or instrumental activities of daily living and personal care and homemaker services. Medicaid-eligible clients direct, select and train their own attendants. A clients attendant is employed by the In-Home Support Services provider agency of the clients choice. Agencies provide independent living core services in the areas of cross-disability peer counseling, information and referral services, independent living skills training and individual and systems advocacy. Providers also must provide 24-hour back-up services and a health professional that will be responsible for the attendant training, including assistance with health maintenance activities and skilled nursing care. Personal care services are furnished to meet the clients non-medical physical, maintenance and supportive needs, including bathing, grooming, hygiene, and assistance with ambulation. As these services are non-medical, they do not need to be performed by a certified home health aide as an extension to care provided by a nurse or therapist. Homemaker services are provided to Medicaid-eligible clients when the individual ordinarily responsible for these activities is temporarily absent or unable to manage the household activities. These services include housecleaning, meal preparation and laundry. It is important to know the distinctions between these two services when making a decision for you or a loved one to find the right level of care for your needs. Editors Note: This article was submitted by Maria Deuth of In-Home Companion Care. She can be reached at 720-862-5656.

In our fast-paced technology-driven world, an abundant amount of information about each and every one of us is readily accessible. Information like addresses, professional licenses, criminal history, property holdings and bankruptcy filing is legally gathered by interested parties and organizations and then shared with others. This open access to personal information does not mean that as savvy consumers we cannot take sufficient precaution to prevent our prized personal information from being stolen. Here are some simple, basic tips to help prevent being victimized by identity theft.Be sure to shred all unsolicited applications received in the mail for pre-approved credit cards rather than just discarding in the trash. Dumpster divers retrieve the applications and complete them, cash the blank checks or simply steal your personal information from your trash. Shred all personal information. If you don't have a shredder, look for a shredding event in your community or suggest to your financial institutions that it would be a great service to provide for its customers.If someone posing as your bank calls and asks for your account number, social security number or any personal information, try to secure the callers phone number, hang up, and then report the call to your bank. Reputable businesses, and all human service agencies like Medicare and Social Security, never make unsolicited calls to obtain any personal information. Be sure to balance your checkbook monthly and review all credit card statements as soon as you receive them to assure that all charges and balances are correct and no one is illegally accessing your accounts. To prevent telemarketers from obtaining your phone number, sign up for the Federal Trade Commission Do Not Call list. To sign up, simply call 1-888-382-1222 from the number you wish to register, or register the phone number(s) on line at www.donotcall.gov.Many of us use the internet for emailing, shopping and financial transactions. It is very important to change your computer passwords often and assign passwords that are secure and difficult to decode.Take advantage of free credit reports to verify that no one is using your credit. Free reports (1 per year) are available from Equifax (800-525-6285), Experian (1-888-397-3742) and Transunion (1-800-680-7289) or online at www.annualcreditreport.com. If you suspect you have been a victim of identity theft, report it immediately to law enforcement, file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission (1-877-438-4338) and contact your financial institution and all credit card companies.Editors Note: This article was submitted by Marilyn Gregory, Elder Abuse Prevention Coordinator Area Agency on Aging for Southwest Florida, Inc. 239-652-6900 Ext. 240. gregorym@elderaffairs.org

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 Harmony Home Health and Hospice,CLICK HERE.Theres just nothing that compares with the feeling of waking up after a good nights sleep, feeling energized and ready to face the day. Yet for many seniors as many as one in three of them getting enough sleep is something that only happens in their dreams. And sadly, its acommon misconceptionthat insufficient sleep is something we just need to accept as we grow older an assumption that Preeti Malani, M.D., chief health officer and professor of medicine at the University of Michigan wants to correct.According to Dr. Malani, If older adults believe that these changes are a normal, inevitable part of aging, they may not think of it as something to discuss with their doctor. And not discussing it can potentially lead to health issues not being identified and managed.Instead of tossing and turning each night, almost half of older adults experiencing sleeping problems are turning to sleeping medications a habit that can be extremely dangerous as we age. Sleep medications for seniors can double the risk of falls and broken bones, due to the increased dizziness and disorientation they are known to often cause. Older adults are often also at risk of becoming dependent on sleeping medications. And, the risk for car accidents may increase as well, according to Consumer Reports Choosing Wisely campaign.To take it a step further, the concern even includes herbal remedies and supplements as well, which place older adults at risk for a number of additional negative health problems. Even something as seemingly harmless as melatonin can react negatively with other common meds, such as those for diabetes and high blood pressure, leading to dizziness and nausea.A senior having sleep problems should instead talk with his or her primary care physician to rule out any underlying conditions (including depression, anxiety, restless leg syndrome, and heart disease, just to name a few) and to get his or her recommendation on how to safely improve sleep. Several safe alternatives include:Cutting back on the amount of caffeine and alcohol consumed, particularly later in the day and eveningMaking sure all electronic devices are kept out of the bedroom, and ensuring the room is cool and darkEstablishing a sleeping routine and sticking to it, going to sleep and awakening at the same time every dayExploring the services of a professional sleep therapist for cognitive behavioral therapy

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.

So, what is a care partner team? Well, it of course includes the Elder, and can include any of the following: Family members, friends, neighbors, volunteers, health professionals, home health or hospice support, etc. The only criteria to be part of a care partner team, is a vested interest and desire to meet the needs of the Elder Care Partner.Being well-known in our family, community, or care partner team is extremely important to our well-being and sense of belonging. We are not talking about the traditional ways that Elders and their care partners might become known to one another with surface level information and broad generalizations. We are talking about creating ways that give people the time and support they need to really be able to know each others stories, so that they can anticipate and meet each others needs on a daily basis. Relationships should be deep enough that we can intuitively know what to do and naturally react to needs when they arise. Even family members may not be tuning into each to other to this degree sometimes because they assume they already have all of the answers. This is a pattern any of us could easily fall into. Once we have developed this kind of responsiveness with our Elder care partner, our job is to make sure that all other care partners on the team are equally committed to building relationships that have meaning.The following statistics help paint the picture of caregiving the United States, and it is interesting to note that: More than 65 million people, 29% of the U.S. population, provide care for a chronically ill, disabled or aged family member or friend during any given year and spend an average of 20 hours per week providing care for their loved one.The value of the services family caregivers provide for "free," when caring for older adults, is estimated to be $375 billion a year. That is almost twice as much as is actually spent on homecare and nursing home services combined ($158 billion).Fifty-one percent of care recipients live in their own home, 29% live with their family caregiver, and 4% live in nursing homes and assisted living.40% to 70% of family caregivers have clinically significant symptoms of depression with approximately a quarter to half of these caregivers meet the diagnostic criteria for major depression.(Statistics taken from Caregiving in the United States; National Alliance for Caregiving in collaboration with AARP. November 2009)Former President Jimmy Carters wife Rosalyn was one of the first nationally-known figures to use her public status to raise American awareness about caregiving. She said, There are only four kinds of people in the world - those who have been caregivers, those who currently are caregivers, those who will be caregivers, and those who will need caregivers. I'm guessing each of us can relate to this quote somehow, some way. Given the statistics we just reviewed, the current pressures on our healthcare system, and growing political emphasis on community-based options for long-term care, we need lots of creative tools and options for caring for each other at home. We need creative, grass-roots solutions that inspire communities to see Elders AND the act of caring for one another in a new light. This is where Care Partnership comes into the picture and it is our responsibility to work together, learn together, and make a difference.To learn more about Care Partnership or the Eden Alternative, please contact Diedra Kearney, Director of Community Education at Dignity Home Health & Hospice, and Chair of the Utah Elder Abuse Prevention Coalition. dkearney@dignityhlth.com, 801-860-3801.

As a Caregiver Advocate, this is one of the most important tips I give caregivers...put your oxygen mask on first! When you are on a plane one of the first instructions is to put your oxygen mask on first, so that you can then help others that depend on you.This applies to caregivers as well. You must find time for yourself every day. It could be going for a walk, reading, listening to music, exercise or anything that calms you or thatyou enjoy. If you need help as a caregiver, you don't have to do it alone. Learn more at our website https://www.caregiverchampionadvocate.com/

Non-medical assistance with; meal preparation, laundry, light housekeeping, errands, activities, outings, companionship and other household duties.These agencies are licensed by the state.AHomemaker/Companionis a person who helps clients to maintain the home, and who assumes the duties customarily undertaken by thehomemaker.#listing_mgr{8 basic_search}#

There is a plethora of articles about how to prevent and treat brain health conditions such as dementia and Alzheimers, as well as how to ensure a healthy brain. Research efforts are immense, as brain health is a major concern across this country. M.D. Anderson, a world-renowned cancer research hospital, is leading a consortium to organize these research efforts. At a recent public panel discussion on brain health, the leader of that consortium answered a question on everyones mind: What does the research say is most effective for preventing dementia? His answer, and the answer in all of these articles, revolves around three things in particular: exercise, the importance of social interaction, and cognitive rehab.What is cognitive rehab? Think of it in terms of taking your brain out for a walk. To keep your brain healthy, it needs to be using the skills you want to hold on to. Whether that means verbal/visual memory, concentration, processing speed or deductive reasoning, the old adage of use it or lose it applies. So, the question arises, In senior living communities, who is providing this service on an individual basis, if at all?Inspire Senior Care is a psychology group that is introducing this service to senior living communities across Illinois. Whether its independent living, assisted living or memory care communities, Inspire hopes to bring this service to as many seniors as can benefit from it across the state. This has been a highly successful program in Texas, but being an Illinois owned company, Inspire is now reaching out to you. They do this service without having seniors sign any contracts, and if they have Medicare Part B coverage or various other PPO insurance plans, they can offer this service at no out of pocket expense.If your community would like to learn more, have them contact David Lawton at 815-603-6162 or email him at david@inspireseniorcare.com to schedule an appointment.Editors Note: This article was submitted by Ron Nevelow, LCSW. Ron is the director of business development for Inspire Senior Care and may be reached at 214-563-2126 or by email at ron@inspireseniorcare.com.

"This is how my journey of home care started"...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 after 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.amberpersonal care.comEditors Note; This article was submitted by Sophia Sarvestani Akrami, with Amber Personal Care. She may be reached at 303- 332-3841 or by email at: amberpersonalcare@gmail.com

Respite Care for the CaregiverRhonda Pepper was her mother, Vera Ruth Goodrichs caregiver. She was diagnosed with Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD). This is due to progressive nerve cell loss in the brains frontal lobes; it is the area behind the forehead or just behind the eyes.Rhonda started noticing some behavior changes in her mother. She started getting up in the middle of the night and getting dressed. She would set the table for the entire family. She was doing things out of nature financially, Rhonda said.She moved in with us in January of 2009 but we didnt get the diagnosis of Frontotemporal Dementia until May. Finallyeverything we had been experiencingthat just pulled it all together, said Rhonda, with a look that can only be described as bitter sweet. They finally had the answers to the why? but now what? Caregivers are so often put in this role or a position of a role reversal.Ruth was referred to palliative care and eventually found herself on hospice care. As a full-time caregiver, Rhonda was able to utilize hospices respite program. This allowed me some down-time. I could go sit at the park and read a book; go to my own doctor appointments; attend group meetings for caregivers; it just allowed me to remove myself from the environment and recharge my batteries, said Rhonda about her experience with the respite program.Rhonda shared the realistic views behind closed doors and what its really like to care for an ailing adult. Its like taking care of an adult infant. Every two hours I would take her to the bathroom; I would shower her; I dressed her; I would change her wet and soiled pants; I would feed her. Rhonda also said she was never fully rested, only sleeping lightly at night because she always had one ear on her mother.As an educator in the community, to physicians, people are often surprised to learn of the many additional programs hospice offers and how, sometimes one program can collaborate with another. Until or unless someone is in the position of being a caregiver, people dont realize the effects, physically and emotionally, it has on them. The term respite literally translates to a time of rest.Editors note: This article was written by Gina Paradiso. She is a Liaison with Arkansas Valley Hospice, Inc. and may be reached at 719-384-8827 or by email at gina.paradiso@arkvalleyhospice.org

The latest findings on the connection between Hearing Loss and Cognitive Function! Does your loved one forget items that you know youve discussed with them, or is it possible that they didnt actually hear the message correctly? New research shows that hearing loss contributes to cognitive problems!Johns Hopkins and the National Institute on Aging that finds that Men and Women with Hearing Loss are much more likely to develop Dementia and Alzheimers Disease! The report states that Even mild Hearing Loss DOUBLED the Dementia risk and severe hearing loss, the study reports, makes people five times more likely to develop dementia than those with normal hearing.If you are over the age of fifty you should have a Baseline Hearing Test, especially if you have noticed ANY signs of forgetfulness, states John Hoglund BC-HIS, ACA of Hoglund Family Hearing and Audiology Center. These tests are provided as a FREE public service by our Practice to increasing knowledge and awareness of hearing related issues.We can also arrange for FREE MEMORY SCREENINGS for those who wish more in depth testing. Please call our Practice to arrange a complimentary consultation to learn more about the research findings.All it will COST is a little of your TIME but the KNOWLEDGE you receive may be PRICELESS! www.HoglundFamilyHearing.com/dementia-and-hearing-loss

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

If you are a senior, you are a target. Scammers and telemarketers want your money. And sometimes family members and caregivers want more than their fair share as well. The average financial cost for a victim of an elder abuse scam was $28,800, with the telephone being the most common way scammers contact you.According to Merriam-Webster, a scammer is a dishonest person who uses clever means to cheat others out of something of value. In 2016, the top scams reported to the Better Business Bureau included the IRS scam, fake sweepstakes/prizes/gifts, the Tech Support scam, and the Grandparents scam.How do scammers get your information? Scammers look for information that will help them appear to know their victim. Social media is one of their targets that helps fill in the blanks of information they dont have - especially for the Grandparents scam. They also use information on mail not shredded and phone calls. Information is also purchased on the internet from other scammers. What are the tell-tale signs of a scam? If someone you dont know contacts you and promises you something, but you have to give them money first, its a scam. If the person dangles bait on the phone, but they want your personal information, its a scam. If they want your money NOW, there is no time for you to verify the details or call them back, its a scam. How do you avoid being a target? If it is too good to be true it probably is. Ask lots of questions. Do your own research. Dont trust caller ID. It is very easy for scammers to fake the caller ID information (called Spoofing). Dont take company information at face value. Look up the companys information yourself and call them back. Dont call the phone number the person on the phone gives you. Dont stay on the phone just to be polite. Hang up, or tell them I dont give money over the phone. Send me something in writing. Dont use gift cards or money orders or wire transfers to pay for anything. Its the same as sending cash, and cannot be reimbursed. Check your credit statements for unauthorized activity. Protect your personal information. When in doubt, dont give it out. What are the signs youve been scammed? Unrecognized charges on credit card/bank account statements Missing money from bank account Stop receiving bills that you expect Receiving mail at your address but addressed to a different name See procedures on medical explanation of benefits you dont recognize Find accounts that arent yours when you check your credit report What if you think you think someone has already gotten you? Recognize that youve been scammed and act fast Report the scam Cease all contact with the scammer Educate yourself, your family and friends ResourcesPolice and/or Local ProsecutorsState of Texas Attorney Generals Officehttps://www.texasattorneygeneral.gov/cpd/file-a-consumer-complaintFrauds and Scams page: https://www.texasattorneygeneral.gov/cpd/frauds-and-scamsFederal Trade Commissionftc.gov/complaint,, 877-382-4357Identity theft, abusive debt collectors and most types of fraudFtc.gov/PassItOnInternet Crime Complaint Centeric3.gov/complaintInternet-based scams, operated by the FBIPostal Inspection Servicepostalinspectors.uspis.gov, 877-876-2455Scams distributed by US mailConsumer Financial Protection Bureauconsumerfinance.gov/complaint, 855-411-2372Shady business practices and financial products, including loans, bank services, credit reporting, ID theft, debt collection and payment cardsUSA.govhttps://www.usa.gov/state-consumer/texasState and local consumer agencies in TexasBetter Business Bureau Scam Trackerbbb.org/scamtrackerHelp the BBB investigate and warn others about scamsEditors Note: This article was written by Jill Schriefer with teleCalm. She may be reached at jill@telecalmprotects.com or teleCalmProtects.com.

Written by Patricia Rockwood, Instructor and Staff Writer, Adult & Community Enrichment (ACE), Suncoast Technical College, Sarasota County District Schools. For class info, pleasevisit our website ace-sarasota.com or give us a call at (941) 361-6590.Everyones heard the old saying Use it or lose it.There is some truth to thatadage: Our brain has a wonderful ability to adapt and changeeven as we age. This ability is called neuroplasticity, and it means that we can keep learning for as long as we want to. But just as with any other muscle, our brain needs regular exercise.According toexperts, agood brain workoutis one thatis a bit challenging and teaches you something new. Maybe youve always wanted to try your hand atphotographyor throwing a pot. Or maybe youre planning a trip toItalyand youd like to brush up on your Italian.Have youbeen working on your memoirs?You could join a class to get tips on how to organize yournotes,andshare your journey with others. If you long for something moreenergetic,there are many types ofdance classes. Any activitythat keeps you challenged and focusedwillstimulate your brain andimprove your memory.Manylifestyle factors affect memory. Experts recommendtakingthe followingstepsto improve memory andbrainhealth:Get regular physical exercise.The best thing for memory is exercise, says RickHuganir, PhD, director of the Johns Hopkins Department of Neuroscience.Researchers arenot clear exactlyhowit works, butit has to do withgetting more blood to your brain.Physical exercise also helps prevent diseases that can be damaging to memory, such as diabetes and hypertension.Aerobic exercise is the best kind: if its good for your heart, its good for your brain,is a good mantra to follow.Try takingexercise breaks throughout the day, whether you are still working or retired; even a few minutes of getting your heart rate going will help reboot your brain. Activities that require hand-eye coordination (such asany racket sportandmany dance classes) are particularly good for the memory circuits.Housework and yardworkmayalsocountas aerobic exercisesometimes.Also, if youre pressed for time,you coulddo a power walk through the grocery storeor the mall and complete errands at the same timeas youfill yourexercise quota.Handle any medical problems,especially circulatory diseasessuch as high bloodpressure,highcholesterol, diabetes, and strokeall ofthese conditions can damage the brain and affect your memory.A nationwidetrialcalled the Sprint-Mindstudyshowed that intensive lowering of blood pressurereduces the risk for mild cognitive impairmentwhich isa risk for dementia.Hormone imbalance in both women and men, including thyroid problems, may also be of concern.Get enough sleep. Sleep apnea and stress are two sleep disruptions that can damage brain functions, includingmemory.Experts believe that 95% of adults need 7.5 to 9 hours of sleep, whereas many of us are getting by on 6 or less. Sleep is necessary for the essential function ofmemory consolidation,which occurs only in the deepest stage of sleep. Youmay haveheard some orall ofthe following suggestions before, but they really are the best way to begin sleeping more and better:Turn off all screens at least an hour before bed; the blue light emitted by TVs, phones, and computers causes wakefulness and interferes with the hormones that cause sleepiness, such as melatonin.Go to bed and get up at the same time every day, even on weekends and holidays.Cut back on caffeine if you suspect that it's interfering with your sleep. People react differently to caffeine;you may beso sensitive that even one morning cup of coffee can keepyoufrom sleeping at night,or it may haveno effect at allon you.Review your medicationswith your doctor; some, such as anxiety meds, can affect memory. Other medications may also have side effectsthat affectmemory as well asother brain functions.Your doctor should also check for possible drug interactions.Be sure to also tell your doctor about any supplements that you take regularly.Stay social!Crosswords and sudoku are great for keeping you sharp, butitseven bettertoplay Bridge, Scrabble, or other challenging games with friends.Keeping your memory healthy is as good an excuse as any for getting out and getting together!Now that more and more people have been vaccinated, social rules in more places are being eased somewhat. A 2008 studyfrom the Harvard School of Public Health found that people with the most active social lives had the slowest rate of memory decline. Remember to get your hearing tested at least yearly, as it often declines gradually and can contribute to social isolation.Manage your stress. Stress is not something you can avoid; in fact, stress is a part of life. Rather than try to avoid stress itself, the key is to look at how you react to it,physically and emotionally. Over time, poorly managed stress reactions can destroy brain cells, damaging the areas in the brain that deal with memory, making it harder to make new memories or retrieve older ones. Here are a few ways to manage stress:Learn to meditate.Meditation is easy to learn and has wonderful benefits, both physical and mental.Besides helping you with daily stress relief, meditation can help improve memory and focus, and reduce anxiety. On the physical side, a regular meditation practice has been scientifically shown to help with chronic pain, high blood pressure, and diabetes.Learn to say No.If your to-do list is one of the sources of your stress, take steps to shorten it.Learn how to play. Finish this saying: All work and no play If you can learn to bring joy and spontaneity back into your life, you might feel a little happier and more relaxed.Simplify. Step outside the Rat Race and slow your life down a bit. If you can stopor at least reducemultitasking, youll enjoy the peaceful Zen feeling of focusing on one thing at a time.Laugh more. Laughingand responding to funny situations or jokes requires several areas of the brain to work together, stimulatinglearning and creativity, according toHelpGuide. Laughter also relaxes you physically, by alternately tensing and relaxing your facial and stomach muscles. Dose yourself with your favorite radio or TV comedyshows, orlook up on-demand programs on cable. As the saying goes, Laughter is the best medicine!Eat healthy.Is there a memory diet?Not exactly. But some foods are better for a healthy brain than others, and some foods aredefinitely NOTso good for your brain. The best overall diet, as you probably know, isbased on fruits, vegetables, whole grains,healthy fatsolive oil, nuts, fishandlean protein. Here are some additional pointers:Getomega-3 fatty acids, either fromcoldwaterfatty fish such as salmon, trout, herring, andtuna;or from walnuts, flaxseed, winter squash, pumpkin seeds, kidney beans, and soybeans.Limit calories from saturated fatit increases the risk of dementia and impairs concentration andmemory.Eat more fruitsand vegetablesthey are full ofantioxidants, important in protecting brain cells from free radical damage, thus improvingmemory.Drink green teait containspolyphenols, which protect against free radical damage and may enhance memory andalertness.Have somered wine (in moderation), or grape juice, or eat fresh grapes and berriesall of these containresveratrol, an antioxidant which boosts blood flow tothebrain and in doing so may improve cognitive function, including memory, according to several recentstudies.ResourcesJohns Hopkins Medicine: Memory: Five Ways to Protect Your Brain Healthhttps://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/memory-5-ways-to-protect-your-brain-healthHelpGuide/Healthy Aging/How to Improve Your Memoryhttps://www.helpguide.org/articles/healthy-living/how-to-improve-your-memory.htmMedical News Today: Social Activity in Your 60s May Lower Dementia Risk by 12%https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/326064National Institute on Aging: Cognitive Health and Older Adultshttps://www.nia.nih.gov/health/cognitive-health-and-older-adults

Everyone knows suffering. Often, when we are the most wounded, and we need help the most, we dont know where to get it. Navigating the dizzying medical-care maze can be both time-consuming and confusing.This is where a Patient Advocate comes in. What does a "Patient Advocate" do? The simple answer is that they help people navigate the healthcare system. A Patient Advocate acts as a support structure, and if legally contracted to do so, may act as a liaison between a patient and their Health Care Provider and/or Insurance Company. The Patient Advocate does not compete with your healthcare provider, they offer assistance where the role of physician becomes limited. A Patient Advocate can help alleviate the pain and the frustration that goes with the worry of uncertainty, fear, and the unknown related to health care issues.The Healthcare system is changing dramatically. There are thousands of pages to read to keep up with the changes. To add to the complexity, each insurance plan and each insurance company have different contracts and rules for individual policies. Each insurance company has a different contract and payment schedule with individual hospitals and providers. It is easy to see how we find ourselves in a maze that is difficult if not impossible to navigate. The addition of long waits and runarounds add to this frustration.Do you need a Patient Advocate? Consider hiring an advocate if:You have several medical conditions to follow.You are unable to think clearly. Some people are in shock following a diagnosis. Some medications impact the patients comprehension and concentration, and some conditions are complicated to understand.You have been diagnosed with a progressive or degenerative illness. You have a chronic illness that requires follow up care.You have medical bills that you don't completely understand or have the time or energy to deal with. Each provider bills separately, even within the hospital, and there is a high percentage of bills with errors. An advocate can be a medical bill detective.The need for Patient Advocacy relates to people of all ages and life styles. It doesn't discriminate.Editors Note: This article was submitted by Patricia Horne, a Professional Patient Advocate with Patient Advocate Solutions, and may be reached at 801-698-0919 or by email at pat@PatientAdvocateSolutions.com

Seniors have more housing options than ever, from the booming tiny house market to roommates and retirement communities. Senior living communities, however, remain a popular choice.Family members who provide hospice care to a loved one at home can experience emotions and encounters that range from immensely satisfying to intensely scary.When a hospice patient takes a turn for the worse at homestruggles to breathe, experiences sudden pain, loses consciousness, becomes agitated, or battles chronic nausea, vomiting or diarrheaVITAS Healthcare offers an additional level of care that brings a nurse or aide directly to the bedside, when medically necessary, for temporary shifts of care up to 24 hours a day until symptoms resolve.Its called Intensive Comfort Care (ICC), one of the four levels of hospice care mandated by the Medicare hospice benefit. ICC makes it possible for appropriate patients to receive around-the-clock hospice care at home, where ICC teams manage symptoms, relieve pain and keep hospice patients out of hospitals and emergency rooms.ICC supports hospices focus on quality of life. ICC is rooted in VITAS commitment to honor hospice patients wishes to remain at home, surrounded by familiar places and their families. This level of care also extends to patients who have complex conditions or challenging diagnoses. Sometimes, ICC patients have been diagnosed with more than one disease (e.g., heart disease and diabetes; chronic lung disease and end-stage kidney disease). These high-acuity patients often require special levels of care that other hospice programs are not equipped or able to provide.Hospice care begins after curative treatments stop or are no longer effective. But some modalities can support quality of life for hospice patients with complex needs, even if they do not treat the underlying terminal disease. For example, intravenous hydration or antibiotics can help manage the pain of an underlying disease, while respiratory/ventilation support can ease breathing discomfort or anxiety in patients with advanced lung disease.For complex patients, ICC and complex modalities keep care focused on the hospice philosophy: compassionate care that supports quality of life at the end of life. The good news is that ICC can be provided wherever the patient calls home: private residence, nursing home or assisted living facility.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.

What is the Transportation Safety Administration (TSA) policy regarding air transportation of cremated remains? There are a number of rules involved with transporting cremated remains. Most airlines will allow transport of cremated remains, either as air cargo or carry-on luggage. When traveling within the continental U.S., its important to place the cremated remains in an urn that is made of light weight material. This way the urn can travel through the x-ray machine. Always carry the necessary legal paperwork: certificate of cremation, permit for burial and a certified death certificate. These documents are issued by the death care provider.When traveling internationally, its best to work with the consulate or embassy of that country to identify the specific rules and legal requirements. Some require additional notarized paperwork from the death care provider or extra paperwork from the state. Allow a minimum of two weeks as there can be a number of steps involved.The TSA website states, Even if an item is generally permitted, it may be subject to additional screening or not allowed through the checkpoint if it triggers an alarm during the screening process, appears to have been tampered with, or poses other security concerns. The final decision rests with the TSA on whether to allow any items on the plane.Can cremated remains be shipped? Yes, throughout the United States via the United States Postal Service (USPS). At this time, FedEx and UPS will not accept cremated remains for shipment.In 2014, the USPS revised the mailing standards when shipping cremated remains. They no longer authorize cremated remains sent using registered mail. The requirement is to ship using Priority Mail Express, meaning the timeframe for receiving cremated remains is two days maximum.The USPS does not accept a cardboard box to hold cremated remains for shipment, they must be encased in a permanent, closed urn. When shipped priority, the package receives a tracking number and the recipient must sign once received. The signed card is then sent back to the person who shipped, as proof of delivery.Can Cremated remains be shipped internationally? Yes, through airline cargo. The death care provider can coordinate this through the airlines and deliver. Cremated remains are placed in the cargo of the plane. There must be a family member or trusted friend of the Next of Kin in that country who will receive the cremated remains at the airport.Editors Note: This article was submitted by Katie Sullivan, Marketing Director of Cremation Society of Illinois and may be reached katies@cremation-society.com

It is important that everyone think ahead and to consider where and how you might like to age.Join SBB University and our panel of experts as we arm you with knowledge on how to evaluate your living situation and make a plan while you are still healthy.Topics of discussion at this informative event included identifying where the best place is for you to live as you age - it could be moving into a beautiful senior living community or developing a course of action to help you age in place safely in your home for as long as possible. We explore how to get all of your legal documents in order with clear intentions and how to ensure it's accessible when needed.Panel 1: Options to assist with aging in place in your own home, downsizing, getting your legal paperwork in orderPanel 2: What do retirement/senior living communities have to offer?To Learn More, Click Links Below:ComForCare of NW PittsburghLIFE PittsburghSharek Law OfficeKarla Casertano - Realtor, Coldwell BankerPresbyterian SeniorCare NetworkNorthland Heights Senior LivingThe Helping Hand Personal Placement Agency

For more information on the author Fyzical Therapy & Balance Center Sarasota, CLICK HERE.Having good balance is a critical component of healthy aging. Everyday activities like reaching for your coffee cup, bending down to pick up the paper, putting on your shoes, and getting up from a chair require subtle shifts in your body's weight distribution. A healthy sense of balance allows you to hold your position or move at will during these weight fluctuations without falling.Gravity is constantly pulling you downward, giving you the tendency to fall, but your ability to balance prevents this from happening. Balance control is a complex physiological process and, just as with muscles, if you don't use it, you lose it. As the body ages, muscle strength, joint range of motion, and reaction time all decrease. These factors can have a negative effect on an older persons balance control and may lead to balance dysfunction a factor linked to falls among the elderly.Falls from poor balance can cause serious, and even life-threatening, injuries. In fact, according to the CDC, accidental falls are the leading cause of death among older adults. Each year, one in three adults over the age of 65 falls, and the risk of falling increases proportionately with age at80 years, over half of seniors fall annually1. Recovery from a fall can sometimes take at least a year in a long-term facility, with some patients never returning to their homes.Among this age group, falls are the number one cause of fractures, hospital admissions for trauma, loss of independence, and injury deaths2. Most of the fractures caused by falling are in the arm, hand, ankle, spine, pelvis, and hip, with hip fractures being one of the most serious types of fall injury, often resulting in long-term functional impairment, nursing home admission, and increased mortality One out of five hip fracture patients dies within a year of their injury3.In fact, falls account for 25% of all hospital admissions, and 40% of all nursing home admissions 40% of those admitted to nursing homes do not return to independent living; 25% die within a year4.These statistics are pretty grim but don' t for a minute think that there's nothing you can do about it or that it wont happen to you. Perhaps you believe that if you limit your activities and become even more sedentary that your chances of falling will decrease (not true!). If you think you can avoid falling as long as you stay at home, know this: The majority of all falls take place inside the home5. Those who do fall are two-to-three-times more likely to fall again, and many people who fall, even if they are not seriously injured, develop a fear of falling.Injuries from falls, reduced mobility and activity, and the fear of falling can significantly reduce your quality of life, making you dependent on others and taking away your freedom to move and live independently.But here's the good news: Falls are preventable. Falling is not an inevitable result of aging, and there are steps you can take to improve your balance and decrease your chances of falling.Muscle strength and flexibility, which are an imperative part of maintaining good balance, decrease with age, especially for sedentary adults, but these can be partially restored with the right physical therapy program.Studies have shown that attention to certain risk factors, such as impaired balance, can significantly reduce rates of falling. Considerable evidence indicates that the most effective fall reduction programs involve systematic fall risk assessment and targeted interventions6.Additional research reveals that a physical therapist-prescribed exercise program targeting balance and strength can be effective in improving a number of balance and related outcomes in older people with mild balance impairment7.At FYZICAL, we have a comprehensive Balance Program that includes assessment and evaluation programs, balance retraining, and vestibular rehabilitation. With balance retraining and vestibular rehabilitation, our goal is to improve balance function and visual-motor control, increase general activity levels, and help your body compensate for inner ear disorders. We utilize a state-of-the-art balance machine and our balance therapy programs have a 99% balance improvement success rate.As balance dysfunction can sometimes cause problems with walking, we also have a Gait Training program. Gait training consists of making sure that your manner of walking is as effective, sure-footed, and safe as it possibly can be. A balanced, steady gait helps in the prevention of falls and injuries. Strength, endurance, motion, balance, and coordination are all components of an effective gait and our certified physical therapists work with patients to help them reach their goal of safe mobility.Improving your balance can reduce your risk of falling, so make it a priority to get a balance assessment test from your doctor or a certified Physical Therapist. Then, find a physical therapy facility that employs aqua therapy8. Once that's complete, a program of physical therapy specifically tailored to your balance needs will be created so you can begin your quest to regain your footing, your confidence, and your freedom9.1 Falls Among Older Adults: An Overview, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention,http://www.cdc.gov/HomeandRecreationalSafety/Falls/adultfalls.html2 Ibid.3 Hip Fractures Among Older Adults, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention,http://www.cdc.gov/HomeandRecreaionalSafety/Falls/adulthipfx.html4 How Often Falls Occur, Learn Not to Fall, http://www.learnnottofall.com/content/fall-facts/how-often.jsp5 Where Seniors Fall, Learn Not to Fall,http://www.learnnottofall.com/content/fall-facts/where-seniors-fall.jsp6 Judy A. Stevens, A CDC Compendium of Effective Fall Interventions: What Works for Community-Dwelling Older Adults,2nd Edition (Atlanta: CDC, 2010),1.7 Xiao Jing Yang, et al., Effectiveness of a Targeted Exercise Intervention in Reversing Older Peoples Mild Balance Dysfunction: A Randomized Controlled Trial, Physical Therapy, 92 (2012).8 Noh DK, et al., The Effect of Aquatic Therapy on Postural Balance and Muscle Strength in Stroke Survivors A Randomized Controlled Pilot Trial, PubMed: ClinRehabil, 2088 (10-11),http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/189554289 MelissaGaskil, Finding the Way,TodayinPT.com

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.

Problem: Patients are often unnecessarily admitted or readmitted into a skilled setting, financially penalizing providers, when such practices are avoidable.Nationally, 19.6 percent of patients were readmitted to a hospital within 30 days of discharge, 34 percent within 90 days and 56.1 percent within a year*The five most common medical conditions for which hospital readmissions occur are: heart failure, pneumonia, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, psychoses, and gastrointestinal problems. The five most common surgical procedures are: cardiac stent placement, major hip or knee surgery, vascular surgery, major bowel surgery, and other hip or femur surgery.Hospital readmissions are frequent and costly events which researchers suggest can be reduced by systemic changes to the health care system, including improved transition planning, quick follow-up care, and persistent treatment of chronic illnesses.*S.F. Jencks, M.V. Williams, and E.A. Coleman, Rehospitalizations Among Patients in the Medicare Fee-for-Service Program, New England Journal of Medicine, Apr. 2, 2009 Discharge Transition: A private duty transitional caregiver in the home of a recently discharged patient will help reduce unnecessary readmissions by charting progress and reporting and by simply being there with the client to prevent them from engaging in high risk post-discharge behavior. A homecare aide will allow the client to recover in their own home while providing quality of care and promoting independence. Readmission Diversion: With eyes on the discharged patient and key indicators being monitored and reported risk is mitigated. When a patients status declines beyond what a non-medical aide can control the clients physician and or a designated Home Health agency is brought in to further enhance the readmission diversion process.Although currently personal in home care is not covered by Medicare, the benefit to having homecare in the home post discharge from either an acute hospital stay and or skilled nursing facility stay can promote a safe and positive outcome. In home care is available from a few hours per day to live in care and can help ease family's worries about their loved one being alone and or not having the assistance needed to reach their goals.Editors Note: This article was written by Kim Trabing, LPN Executive Director, and Boad Swanson, President of Salus Homecare. They can be reached at 801-566-1185 or by email at Ktrabing@salushomecare.com

Click here to begin your FREE search!You may be eligible for programs that can providehealth insurancethat pays for your medical costs and other medical expenses. You can also get health care assistance through chore services, home care, nursing home care, and waiver benefits.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!

Do you need guidance with an aging loved one and care decisions? Do you have a Grab and Go binder?Often, caregiving falls on the shoulders of the family members. In time, compassion fatigue is likely to occur because of the overwhelming responsibilities of caring for an aging loved one. Family caregivers are burned out, worried about losing their jobs, experience strained relationships with their spouses, siblings, and the aging parent, and are physically and emotionally exhausted. Care Right helps families with aging loved ones navigate the long term care industry.One would hope the aging process brings families together, but it often does not. Families dont know what they dont know, often times making mistakes in helping their aging parents with decision-making.Care Right conducts comprehensive assessments (what works well, what isnt working, what goals are needed and what resources are available)We facilitate family meetings, develop an Aging Plan (where will my loved one live, who will provide care, how will care be paid) and help families restore relationships and make informed decisions. Care Right then oversees this plan to ensure the best possible care is in place.Editors Note: Contact Annalee at 239.770.6322 to schedule your complimentary 30 minute consult. Plan ahead: save time, money, and stress for you and your family. Visit www.CareRightInc.com to learn more.

Tucker Vision Center has been in practice serving the tri-county area for over 26 years. Whether you just cant see as clearly as you use to or you need more detailed medical care to treat your diabetes, glaucoma or age related macular degeneration, Dr. Terry L. Tucker can make sure you receive the best care possible.One thing you will find at Tucker Vision Center that you wont likely find at any other optometrist in Lee County is Oxy-View glasses. These glasses offer patients the benefits of oxygen therapy without the discomfort of the nasal cannula. It combines oxygen therapy and vision, and discreet oxygen delivery. Originating in Italy in 2000 and later imported here, the original frame and design were not good and were redesigned by a U.S. Company who modified the design and material and had it patented.Oyx-View oxygen therapy eyeglasses are designed for those individuals who require supplemental oxygen. Oxy-View allows you to ditch your nasal cannula, improve your quality of life, and feel better about yourself, while assuring that you are receiving the oxygen prescribed by your doctor.For more information on the Oxy-View glasses and how they could benefit you or someone you know, call 239-656-1778 or go to www.tuckervisioncenter.com.Editors Note: This article was submitted by the Tucker Vision Center.

Veterans Benefits that Increase Income to Pay for Long term CareTwo types of little-known Veterans Benefits may provide critical benefits to those who need assistance with health care costs: Housebound benefits and Aid & Attendance benefits. Eligibility rules for these benefits are more flexible than those for Medicaid or other public benefits, and are also available to qualified surviving spouses and dependents of a veteran.In addition to meeting requirements regarding active duty service and disability, an applicant must meet medical and financial criteria:DETERMINING ELIGIBILITYMedical Criteria:Housebound benefits are available to a veteran or widow(er) of a veteran who meets certain conditions of disability and is confined to the home. People age 65 or older are presumed to be disabled, and simply must meet financial and military service eligibility requirements.Aid & Attendance benefits are available to a veteran or widow(er) of a veteran who meets certain disability conditions. Notably, the applicant is presumed to need Aid and Attendance if living in an assisted living facility.Financial Criteria:IncomeThe 2008 permissible family income limits range from $763 to $1,427 (for Housebound benefits) and $998 to $1,842 (for Aid & Attendance benefits), depending on whether benefits are for a widow(er) and whether there are dependents.Unreimbursed medical expenses (including home health care, assisted living facility, or skilled nursing home costs) may be used to reduce countable income.Assuming the applicant is eligible, the VA uses a formula to determine the amount of the monthly benefit, based on the sources of income and out-of-pocket medical expenses.AssetsThe VA considers an individuals net worth, excluding his/her home, to determine whether the person has sufficient means to pay for his/her own care. There is no specified resource limit; however, a commonly used resource limit is $80,000 or less in assets, whether married or single. Nevertheless, because the VA now uses age analysis to determine financial need, a 98-year old who has $75,000 may not be eligible, whereas a 78-year old who has $75,000 may be considered eligible.There is no look-back period in determining financial eligibility for applicants of these VA benefit programs. Therefore, excess resources can be gifted to family members and an application filed immediately thereafter with no effect on eligibility.Author: *Donald D. Vanarelli is a Certified Elder Law Attorney by the National Elder Law Foundation, accredited by the ABA and an Accredited Veterans Administration Attorney.

In my past career as a Physical Therapist, I did a lot of Rehab on folks that had suffered a fall (or falls) at home.Many times, the falls could have been avoided by minimizing risk factors ahead of time. There are many causes of falls and many ways to minimize the risk. I want to cover just one of those risk minimizers in this short time we have: Down-sizingBy definition it means to simplify, de-clutter or take up less space. From the point of view of Rehab it might mean returning someone back to home to Age in Place. It may also encompass changing where you live.So, why Downsize?*Safety: de-cluttering your living space may reduce risk of falls. A more efficient living space may also help.*Accessibility: Modifying your current space might make it easier to move about in your daily activities OR rent/purchase something that suits your physical needs (i.e.: NO stairs; all living space on one level, etc.). A Physical or Occupational Therapist specializing in Accessibility is helpful.*Energy Conservation: less to clean. Focus on the want-tos vs. have-tos that come with a large house or tons of stuff. Spend more of your energy taking care of you (develop your hobbies, exercise, socialize, learn, travel) instead of spending most of your energy caring for your habitat.You have worked hard now, enjoy!Editors Note: This article was written by Dawn Mathis, SRES, GRI, ABR - Associate Broker @Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage. She can be reached at 970-481-5263.

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 person is subjected to the legal control of an external entity or organization, known as a conservator which is someone appointed by a court to assume responsibility for the interests of a minor or incompetent person.#listing_mgr{7 basic_search}#

To learn more aboutSenior Care Associates - VA Aid & Attendance Specialists Nationwide,CLICK HERE.Families who are unable to sell their homes or who are not willing to leave the comfort of their homes as they age run into many issues. Am I living by myself? Is a neighbor willing or able to care for me? Are my children close enough to give me aid. If not, do I need to relocate to either live with them in their home or live close by. So many questions.Lets break this down. Staying at home. Can I maneuver the stairs? Am I able to do yard work? Is the house too big and doesnt serve its purpose anymore with the family grown and gone. Am I lonely? This leads to not eating well because you dont want to cook anymore, so you eat whats convenient which isnt always good. Is it good to eat alone? Am I able to drive? If not, how do I get around to do shopping, hair appointments, doctors appointments etc. If I am driving, is it safe for me and those on the roads?There are many options to being able to stay at home. Lets break this down. Is their family in the area that can assist with your needs? How about a neighbor, church etc.? You can usually rely on family to assist with your needs. What I hear from seniors is that they know their children are busy with their own lifes and dont want to be a bother. Many times we run into family caregiver burnout which could lead to abuse. Make sure we are all in check when you know this could lead to abuse.Other stay at home options for care are to hire a Home Personal Care Agency. The advantage to this is that they need to be licensed through the state, caregivers should have criminal background checks performed, liability insurance and bonded. Just in case something is stolen or an accident is caused everyone is covered. You will usually pay an hourly rate depending on where you live and how much care is involved. It could run anywhere from $15-$25 an hour. Some agencies will accept Medicaid which will cover your costs.The VA also offers benefits for Veterans and their spouses such as caregivers comingin to offer personal services such as house keeping, laundry etc. They will also do yard work. The Area Agency on Aging which is usually county run also offers many services and a phone call to them is well worth the time and effort. They offer transportation, meals on wheels etc.Another option is having a Home Health and Hospice company come in which is covered under Medicare. Their services are based around medical care, taking blood pressure or blood, medication administering, bathing assistance etc.If you are paying out-of-pocket for any services and you are either a Veteran, a spouse or a surviving spouse to a Veteran, the Aid and Attendance pension is another option to pay for this.

For more information on the author Good Life Healing Center, CLICK HERE.More than 34 million Americans have diabetes, and approximately 90 percent of them have type 2 diabetes, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Type 2 diabetes, while its exact cause is unknown, develops when the body becomes resistant to insulin or the pancreas doesnt produce enough insulin. Because of this, treatment often involves taking insulin sensitizers or medication that helps the body increase its sensitivity and therefore ability to process insulin, keeping the blood sugar from getting too low. Unfortunately, this medication often causes side effects, including weight gain and anemia.The good news is, for those millions of Americans living with type 2 diabetes, researchshows electroacupuncture combined with an insulin sensitizer may be a viable new treatment option.The study was published in 2015 in the journal Acupuncture in Medicine. In it, researchers looked at the effect of the combination of electroacupuncture and metformin one kind of insulin sensitizer on insulin-resistant rats. In one group of rats, the researchers only administered metformin. In the other, the rats were given metformin and electroacupuncture treatments, and then they compared several different factors.Overall, the rats that received both treatment types had higher insulin levels than those who just got the metformin. Interestingly, while metformin does improve insulin sensitivity and suppresses gluconeogenesis a process that makes glucose in the body, it does not actually cause insulin production. Therefore, the researchers attributed the higher levels of insulin in the metformin and electroacupuncture group to be due to the acupuncture treatments themselves.The researchers also compared two other indicators of insulin production and absorption between the two groups and for each of the indicators, the rats that also received electroacupuncture performed better.Of course, human clinical trials are needed, but the researchers were excited enough about their findings that they suggested this combination could be developed as a new treatment option for patients with type 2 diabetes. This study is just one in a long list that has sought to bring the gifts of acupuncture to patients with diabetes.As always in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), we want to improve your health from the root cause outward to the symptoms, addressing how a patient came to be diabetic as well as the health problems that arise with a diagnosis. TCM teaches it is important to look at all aspects of your well-being, including diet, exercise and mental health altogether, not as unrelated elements.If you have any questions about acupuncture for diabetes, or youd like to start a journey to better health before a life-changing diagnosis, please dont hesitate to get in touch with me.

Hodges Universitys Frances Pew Hayes Center for Lifelong Learning (CLL) was established in 1996 by the university and local leaders as the first lifelong learning program in Collier County.The CLL provides quality year-round educational programs to adults in the community at a reasonable cost.The CLL is a member-directed, multigenerational learning community that invites participants to experience diverse, collaborative, life-enhancing intellectual and social activities. The broad-based curriculum includes stimulating discussion groups, lectures, field trips andworkshops in current events, the arts, literature, economics, the environment, health and wellness, philosophy and spirituality, creative writing and much more.If you are interested in learning more about the beneficial aspects of lifelong learning, please read our article, Four Benefits to Lifelong Learning. In it you will find valuable insight from experts, as well as hear from a member of the CLL regarding their experience.An affiliate of Elderhostel/Road Scholar, the CLL is part of a national network of lifelong learning institutes.Sessions: Mid-January through mid-April Mid-June through mid-August Mid-October through mid-DecemberCurriculum: Issues of the day Topics of intellectual expansion Opportunities for experiential learningAreas of study include anthropology, art, economics, the environment, health and wellness, history, music, religion, sociology, world travel and culture, writing and literature, and much more.Leadership for courses and lectures is provided by the members, community volunteers, experts in their fields, and faculty and staff at Hodges University.For more information, to become a sponsor or a member, to participate as a volunteer program leader, or to help expand the efforts of the program, contact the center by phone at (239) 513-1122 ext. 6133, cll@hodges.edu, or visit us at our office at Hodges Universitys Naples campus.

It is imperative that families of individuals with disabilities and special needs get appropriate advice when it comes to their estate planning. Special needs trust planning can provide a family significant peace of mind knowing that their children will not only continue to receive the government benefits that they are entitled to, but also access to the money that they are leaving them in a special needs trust.It is often a shame to see mistakes that families make in this area. They often are the same mistakes and I would like to assist today by shining a light on them. Although there are many more, here are just a few of the biggest mistakes that we see families making in the special needs context:1. Taking the cheap way out In light of how easy it is to get documents done online or in the age of every attorney believing that they do that too it is very easy for consumers to believe that quality does not matter. Although I have written many other blogs that talk about why quality does matter in all planning contexts, it certainly matters in the special needs context more than ever. Many of your online drafting companies as well as your inexpensive local attorney options are usually not people who specialize in this area. Special needs planning, more than any other area, requires knowledge and skill to ensure that a beneficiary does not get disqualified from any governmental benefits. Avoid the temptation of taking the inexpensive or cheap way out and get the planning done correctly.2. Waiting until it is necessary We often see people in this context who do not want to come to grips with the fact that they need to get the planning done sooner rather than later. They often will wait until the moment is perfect or until they have every answer to every question that they may ever need to know. Because of what is at stake, it is essential not to procrastinate and to get the planning done as early as possible. If you die without the correct planning in place, the risk is loss of benefits to your child, not only from their government benefit perspective but the loss of access to all the money that you are going to leave them as well. Avoid the temptation to be perfect and get documents placed that will protect your family. You can always update and make changes later to make it perfect but dont procrastinate and take a chance on it being too late.3. Failing to name an appropriate trustee or co-trustee The selection of a trustee is an extremely important decision in all trusts. However, this decision is probably more important in the special needs context than in any other context because of all the stringent rules that are required for special needs trust administration and the fact that one mistake or one improper distribution can have an individual lose their SSI benefit or Medicaid benefit. It is imperative that the trustee be up on the law and know the rules that apply to special or supplemental needs trusts inside and out. We typically recommend a corporate trustee in this instance and many of them are non-profit organizations that will act as trustees and do so as a profession on a normal ongoing basis. If you have a family member that you would like to name, consider adding them as the co-trustee with a corporate fiduciary. It is difficult for a corporate fiduciary to stay on top of all of the real changes in the social security context through the POMS and in the Medicaid context through case law and regulations, which makes it impossible for an individual to stay on top of all of those regulations. Our recommendation is to find a corporate fiduciary that you are comfortable with and then add a family member as a co-trustee to allow a family member to be involved.4. Getting it done early and forgetting about it As I stated above, getting it done early is imperative, but you also dont want to get it done and never update it. These are living, breathing documents and there are a lot of things that can change in our lives that would affect the documents themselves. Make it a plan to touch base with the attorney who drafted the documents at least once a year. There are often changes in the special needs arena and we recommend making updates as changes in the law and changes in the social security POMS occur on at least an annual basis. Dont fall into the trap of creating the documents and never reviewing them.We hope that these common mistakes to avoid when drafting special needs trust planning was a valuable use of your time. If you would like to learn more about special needs trust planning, please contact our office to learn more information about our special needs trust workshop.If you would like to have additional information or to discuss this further, please give us a call at 717-845-5490.

Explore the medical, legal, social, and ethical factors impacting families and healthcare professionals during the COVID-19 Pandemic.Click on the photo to view the video webinar.Thank you to the panelists and supportersApple Care & Companion | McNair Dallas Law | Aging2.0 Dallas | Conversation Ready NTX | Kare Works

Below is a guideline on choosing the best Caregivers at any agency.Simply ask the below questions to any agency, then record and compare your answers!Does your agency have a drug testing policy? Most agencies: dont have a drug testing policy because its currently not mandatory from the state health department (Colorado), plus it increases costs. These types of agencies could be considered dangerous by allowing themselves to be open for possible issues, law suites, etc. Also, you may find some agencies that do one 5-panel drug test upon hire and to be frank, thats not enough! Instead: try and find an agency that conducts a 14-panel drug test that includes some major pain medications on the panel. Also, ask if they do it upon hire, annually & at random. This will ensure you have a clean Caregiver within your home as long as they are providing care. What kind of background checks does your agency provide? This can be tricky, because not all background check companies are created equal! If the agency: simply conducts a BG check online with any company, you may not be getting the full report. Why you ask? because depending on where the data was pulled, it may be stagnant and outdated, thus your critical results may be tainted. Instead: try and find an agency that conducts at least a 150 point checks that include DMV reports (including DWI and DUI), Social Security trace, county and state-wide searches for felonies and misdemeanors but most importantly freshly updated data! Also, try and use an agency that does the BG check upon hire, annually and at random. This will ensure you have solid, historically clean Caregivers within your presence for the entire time they work in your home. The first visit, do the Caregivers just show up? Most agencies: will do this; they will assign a Caregiver without an introduction. This can be awkward and unnatural because both parties are unfamiliar with each other, their role, duties, etc. Instead: try and find an agency that has an Area Manager that will set up a meeting between the Client and Caregiver for a warm introduction. This is a huge ice-breaker and allows a friendly, comfortable introduction between both parties. Editors Note: This article was submitted by Steve Lee, Founder & Owner of Veterans Aide at Home, a non-skilled 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

One of the VAs best-kept secrets, called Aid and Attendance, is an excellent source of funds for long-term care (either at home or in an assisted living facility) for a non-service connected disability.Most VA benefits and pensions are based on a disability which was incurred during a veterans wartime service; however, Aid and Attendance (A&A) is available for individuals who are disabled due to the issues of old age such as Alzheimers, Parkinsons and other non-service connected disabilities.For those veterans and widows(ers) who are eligible, these benefits can be a blessing for the disabled individual who is not yet ready for a nursing home. This benefit can be as high as $1,949 per month for a married veteran and $1,056 per month for a veterans surviving spouse. This money can be used for home healthcare or assisted living bills. The benefit is not generally used for the cost of nursing home benefits.To qualify for A&A, the applicant must be permanently and totally disabled. The applicant does not need to be helpless he only needs to show that he is in need of outside help on a regular basis. Someone who is housebound or in an assisted living facility and is over the age of 65 is presumed by the VA to be in need of A&A.The A&A program has strict qualifiers relating to the applicants income and assets. It is very important to meet with a knowledgeable veterans service officer or an experienced elder law attorney to determine whether or not you qualify for this amazing benefit. Filing for A&A is free; however, restructuring income and assets to qualify may involve a legal fee.To learn more, call (303) 409-3563 (Diana) to order the Colorado Guide to VA Aid and Attendance together with a 30-minute audio CD that brings this amazing benefit to life.Editors Note: This article was written by Richard Hughes of The Hughes Law Firm, Denver. He may be reached at 303-758-0680 or www.thehugheslawfirm.net

Its not about the destination Its all about the journey.A recent hospice patient was tired of being inside. He had cabin fever. During a visit by his nurse the patient was looking out his window admiring her Volkswagon convertible parked in the driveway. The last time he rode in a convertible, it was a VW, too. It was easy to read the memories on his face. One afternoon, on her own time, our nurse returned to the patients house. She helped him into the car and reclined the seat so that he could better see. She latched his seat belt and dropped the top on her VW. The day was sunny and the road filled with flashes from the past. They drove past places he had lived and churches he attended. They saw places his mother loved to visit. That day they drove back in time to recall a journey that had led to this very trip. After dinner out, our nurse took her patient home. He was exhausted, but the smile on his face after that ride will always be with her. Hospice is a journey through to the end of life. The goal is to treat patients with respect and allow them to live a full life during their last months. Hospice manages symptoms and pain. No hospitals, no beeping machines, no tubes. It is the end of life on the patients terms, with a helping hand to make the journey as fulfilling as possible. Hospice makes a difference in the lives of patients. A 2007 study that looked at Medicare beneficiaries with some of the most common diagnoses leading to death, found that patients who received hospice services lived on average, 29 days longer than those who did not receive hospice care. Hospice patients had 29 additional opportunities to enjoy their families, make a memory or share a smile. As hospice care providers, we strive to go the extra mile for our patients, in some cases literally. With deep roots in the Treasure Valley, we have served Idaho seniors for years and we understand they take personal responsibility seriously. We welcome your call to understand your family's unique needs and to help you make an informed decision for you and your loved one. Written by Devin Limb, Administrator United Hospice. dlimb@unitedhospiceidaho.com According to the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization, the median length of service in 2011 was 19.1 days, a decrease from 19.7 in 2010.This means that half of hospice patients received care for less than three weeks and half received care for more than three weeks. The average length of service increased from 67.4 days in 2010 to 69.1 in 2011.

In June 2011, the 3rd Annual Elder Abuse Prevention Summit was held. It has had a profound effect on professionals and elders alike. Community leaders and government met to make a difference. In partnership with the 2011 Utah Elder Abuse Prevention Coalition, Utah's Governor Gary R. Herbert made the following declaration:Whereas, nearly one-quarter of a million Utahans are over 65 the age of sixty-five;Whereas, Utah Adult Protective Services received 3351 reports of elder abuse, neglect and exploitation in 2010, an increase of more than two hundred cases from the previous year;Whereas, elder abuse occurs in families and communities of all social, economic, and racial backgrounds; andWhereas, individuals, civic organizations, and government plays a critical role in preventing elder abuse through education, support groups, training, assistance to those at risk, and treatment for victims; and,Whereas, Elder Abuse Prevention Month affords all Utahans the opportunity to remember victims of elder abuse and their families, promote the programs and organizations that serve them, and participate in community efforts to improve the safety and well-being of all people in Utah.Now, Therefore, I Gary R. Herbert, Governor of the State of Utah, do declare June 2011 as ELDER ABUSE PREVENTION MONTHIn addition to the above declaration, the following sponsors were recognized for the provision of education and resources for seniors in their communities:Seniors Blue Book Legacy Retirement CommunitiesDignity Home Health & HospiceSenior Care AssociatesNeighborhood HouseComfort Keepers Mountainland PharmacyEden AlternativeEnsign GroupOrbit MedicalVital Signs StaffingFurthermore Utah Non-Profit Housing Organization was honored with the Caring Communities Award and Hazel Bibles was celebrated with the Life Celebration Award.Our distinguished list of presenters included Governor Herberts Chief of Staff Paul Neuenschwander, Director of Division of Aging, Nels Holmgren, Director of the Medicaid Fraud Unit at the Utah Attorney Generals Office, Robert Steed, Salt Lake County Sherriff, Jim Winder, Coalition Chair, Diedra Kearney, Dignity Home Health & Hospice CEO, Brice Wilson, and Director of Caregiver Support at Division of Aging, Sonni YudellThis years theme was Everyone deserves to be treated with dignity and for those who presented, it was a powerful reminder that regardless of age, socio-economic status, race, gender, or health; we have a common need; to be regarded as important and treated with compassion and dignity. Abuse and neglect have no place in our society, and most especially among our most vulnerable citizens!There was a common message from each of these outstanding speakers; it will take a collaborative effort from Government, Civic Organizations, the Private Sector, and Individuals to stomp out abuse and neglect!An added feature this year was the Art for Awareness Silent Auction. Senior artists from around the state donated pieces of art for auction! There were beautiful examples of workmanship, dedication, and creativityand all were sold to help stomp out abuse and neglect!If you are /interested in helping, please contact The Utah Elder Abuse Prevention Coalition at 801-860-3801.Elder Abuse Prevention SummitSave the Date: June 15th, 2012Grand America. For more information call 801-860-3801To report Elder Abuse: in Salt Lake call (801) 264-7669; Statewide call (800) 371-7897.

Youre thinking about selling your home. Maybe youre retiring, downsizing or a major life event has made you consider a move. A Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES ) has unique training and experience in helping home buyers and sellers in your situation. Why ask a Seniors Real Estate Specialist to assist you?An SRES understands that the decision to sell can be difficult. Selling a home can be an emotional time, potentially involving other life decisions. An SRES understands the issues facing older adults. By taking a no-pressure approach, they can help you navigate your choices and may be able to suggest alternatives that help you stay in your home. An SRES can patiently support you through each step. Your SRES will take the time needed to make you feel comfortable with the complex selling process. Your specialist understands the demands a sale can make on you and works hard to minimize them. They will tailor the marketing process to your specific needs. An SRES will stick with you throughout the entire process. Your SRES is interested in looking out for your best interests through all aspects of your transition, not just the sale of your home. Theyve invested time in becoming an SRES because they enjoy working with clients in your situation and helping others. An SRES can draw upon a network of other professionals focused on 50+ clients. Theyve already identified other helpful experts, including tax counselors, financial advisers and estate planners who can help you understand the financial consequences of selling your home, and interior staging specialists and trade contractors to get your home prepared for showings. An SRES also has ties throughout the 50+ community. Theyre familiar with active adult and community service organizations in your area. Your SRES can provide referrals to a variety of resources at the local, state and national level, and on the Internet. Theyre knowledgeable about local senior housing options and can refer you to another SRES if youre planning to move outside the area. Editors Note: This article was submitted by Kim Henderson, Realtor, SRES, Coldwell Banker Real Estate. She can be reached at 412-848-3907 or by email at kim.henderson@pittsburghmoves.com. Visit her website at www.yourpittsburghrealestateagent.com

An assisted living waiver may be used to transition individuals out of nursing facilities or to provide persons at risk of institutionalization with options for remaining in their communities. Assisted living waivers are designed to provide an alternative to more costly nursing home care.#listing_mgr{8 basic_search}#

Click the link to learn more aboutAshford Assisted Living and Memory Care of DRAPER or SPRINGVILLE.Greg Nield and Robert Aird own and operate Ashford Assisted Living and Memory Care. Together Rob and Greg have decades of experience in developing owning and operating local business enterprises. Both being born and raised locally along the Wasatch Front, these two friends met as missionaries for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in October of 2000. They were assigned to be companions in Cuernavaca Mexico for only six short weeks, but from those humble beginnings they have forged a life long friendship and business partnership. Greg and Rob started Ashford together during the economic crisis of 2008. They saw a lack of high quality locally owned memory care facilities and decided to jump into the market with both feet. Together they have developed from the ground up multiple successful locations for our unique and award winning Memory Care and Assisted Living buildings. Both Rob and Greg can be seen in our buildings helping residents and families thrive. The hands-on ownership team can be seen serenading in a Mariachi get-up with guitar in hand or dining with our wonderful residents and staff.

Join SBB University for a presentation by Encompass Health to learn of simple steps you can put in place to reduce all of the modifiable risk factors for heart disease, heart attack and stroke, and ways to improve your cardiovascular health if you have experienced a stroke, heart attack, heart failure, angioplasty for heart surgery (or are caring for someone who is).Presenter: Lisa Hopkins, Area Business Development Director - Encompass Healthwww.encompasshealth.com

Do You Know Which People Foods Are Dangerous For Pets?There are some common foods that we enjoy but should not share with our cats and dogs:Alcohol will cause vomiting, diarrhea, decreased coordination, even deathAvocado vomiting and diarrheaChocolate/Coffee/Caffeine vomiting, diarrhea, heart arrhythmia, deathDairy Milk - adult animals lack the enzyme to digest it, resulting in diarrheaFatty and Spicy Foods can cause inflammation of the pancreas (painful and potentially fatal)Grapes & Raisins kidney failureMacadamia Nuts weakness, depression, vomitingOnion, Garlic, Chives red blood cell damage. Cats are especially sensitiveRaw Meat, Bones, Eggs risk of transmission of bacteria; diarrheaXylitol (artificial sweetener found in sugar-free gum and mints) causes life-threatening hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) and liver failureYeast Dough rising dough can release significant amounts of gas in stomach and intestines, potentially leading to ruptureSome of these, like chocolate, are well known to be problematic. Others on the list are lesser known to most people. Before offering meat baby food to cats make sure it does not contain onion powder. Chocolate, grapes, and raisins are tantalizing to dogs (and some cats) but are especially toxic. Cats and dogs are drawn to sweet or minty smells and tastes. Xylitol-containing gums and candy should not be consumed in pet-owning households.For more information on foods toxic to pets as well as toxic plants and drugs (both prescription and over-the-counter), ask your veterinarian or investigate www.aspca.org/pet-care/poison-control. To be safe, never medicate your pet at home without a prescription or recommendation from your veterinarian.This article was submitted by Dr. Lori Lowery, owner of ComforVet, LLC, a veterinary house call service. She can be reached at 303-630-9730 or by email at info@comforvet.com.

When you are not feeling your best, you dont have to wait for relief. Stop by Venice Apothecary where licensed pharmacists fill prescriptions within ten minutes.Venice Apothecary is your full-service, home-town pharmacy for fast, friendly, accurate, and caring services- including compounded medications for you & your pets. Committed to excellent customer care since opening in 2003, Venice Apothecarys services include free medication delivery and free pill minder services. These popular services offered at no charge, combine both safety and convenience for you and for others who may assist in your care. Pill-minders ensure that medications are taken exactly as prescribed by your physicians in color-coded snap-on lids organizers which are clearly labeled by day and time of day. Of course, complimentary counseling with a licensed pharmacist is always available.Compounded prescriptions are filled by trained and experienced pharmacists who work closely with physicians and veterinarians to ensure that customized prescriptions are promptly compounded to improve your health and your pets.You will also find over-the-counter products to help you manage flu season, cough, colds, and pain relief. Specialty vitamins and supplements are available to improve your overall health and wellness.Located just outside of Venice Regional Bayfront Health Emergency Room, Venice Apothecary is easy to find at 560 The Rialto in Venice. Owner and operator Sarah Young, R.Ph. And her team of licensed pharmacists and technicians offer the highest quality and personalized customer service that exceeds your expectations.At Venice Apothecary, we encourage you to take an active role in your healthcare through consultation and education .Stop by Venice Apothecary today to learn more about our services and meet the friendly staff!Editors Note: For timely, personalized pharmacy services, visit Venice Apothecary, 560 The Rialto, Venice, FL 34285, call 941-485-8205, email: info@veniceapothecary.net or logon to www.veniceapothecary.net.

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When my father-in-law needed psychiatric care, all we could think of was the worst, says Kim Chalmers, supervisor of senior care at St. Joseph Medical Center in Kansas City. Thats why I can empathize with the fears of families facing heart-wrenching decisions when their loved ones suffer from debilitating psychiatric illness. But after they take one look at what we offer, their whole outlook changes.The Senior Behavioral Health Services (SBH) is one of the many ways St. Joseph Medical Center serves the senior population in the area. As the first hospital in Kansas City to launch a comprehensive Senior Care service line including a senior-friendly emergency room and senior-focused inpatient program, SBH ensures patients and their families receive the necessary support and services to offer stabilization and treatment for adults displaying serious behavioral changes.We offer help and hope to patients and their families who are dealing with the gravity of these life-altering decisions, says Helen Miller, director at SBH. We want families to know what a beautiful place we have created to provide care for their loved ones in a tranquil, peaceful space with safety uttermost in mind.Miller adds that the level of care provided at SBH is helping families receive the counseling and therapy necessary to understand how to offer their loved ones a better quality of life and to communicate more effectively with them.Along with the advanced improvements in psychiatric medications, SBH is helping to reduce the stigma surrounding psychiatric illness.We often say if someone were diagnosed with any other illness, they would seek help for that, Miller says. As a society, we must confront the wrongful notions that prevent people from seeking care.St. Joseph Medical Center is one of the only hospitals in the metro with a 5-star CMS rating.With exceptional providers and a dedicated and caring staff, Miller says she is proud of the comprehensive approach the team takes.Our diverse team of specialists creates an individualized treatment plan specifically tailored to fit yours or a loved ones unique needs to provide them with optimal care, Miller says. We work tirelessly to ensure everyone leaves our program with the tools necessary to meet lifes challenges.To learn more and see a virtual tour, please visit: http://bit.ly/SJMCSBH

What does it mean to be home? Is it a location? Is it the cozy feeling when you walk in to a warm house on a cold day? Is it who you are with? Or is it a combination of many factors? As proponents of home care, it is imperative that we recognize the aspects of what people define as home and their personal priorities in their dwellings. I was recently in the home of a client of mine, and her husband verbalized how the caregiver who was helping his wife liked to clean the kitchen floor right before she left in the afternoon, but that he and his wife liked their house fully clean first thing in the morning in case they had unexpected company that day. Home care today encompasses many thingsfrom cleaning a clients home the way they like, to skilled care in the home that would have taken place in a hospital not that long ago. Studies have shown and many of us have firsthand experience of the benefits of recovering, healing or just maintaining ourselves in a supportive home environment. Clients can be around their own belongings, furnishings, family members, and pets which promotes a sense of security and safety and can decrease the stress on the client and family. With less stress comes increased health and wellness as well as a sense of control of their situation. Perhaps their diagnoses is out of their control, but if they are in their own environment, they potentially could feel better in general about where they are in life. As home care workers, lets be mindful of where we are and who we are with when we step over the threshold into another persons home, and treat it and them as we would like to be treated. What a privilege to help people at home!Editors Note: This article was submitted by PeopleCare Health Services. A member of our team can be reached at 719.275.2575 or by email at OfficeSouth@PeopleCareHS.com.

The cannabis industry is one of the fastest growing industries in the U.S. today, and senior citizens are the fastest growing demographic that is embracing the industry.It only makes sense- many of the ailments seniors suffer from are ailments that can be easily treated with cannabis. As the industry has grown over the last five or six years, many new products have been developed that eliminate the need to smoke cannabis. For arthritic joints, there are cannabis lotions and salves that are simply applied topically to the affected area and provide instant relief. Many customers report back that the lotions not only relieve their joint pain, but it also leaves their skin feeling refreshed and soft. There are products that contain other cannabinoids besides THC, like CBD and CBN. Neither of these cannabinoids have a high effect, and they each help in their own way. CBD is a wonderful anti-inflammatory, and CBN is very effective as a sleep aid. There are transdermal patches that contain either THC, CBD or CBN and many seniors have found abundant relief for many ailments using these new cannabis patches. There are also sublingual tinctures that can help alleviate anxiety, or to help stimulate the appetite, or to alleviate pain. Really, any common ache or pain can be addressed with cannabis without damage to the kidneys that many over the counter pain relievers can potentially cause, and in many cases, cannabis can be extremely beneficial for more serious diseases and afflictions as well. The fact that consumers can now purchase these items without a medical recommendation has helped boost the number of seniors consuming cannabis because they no longer have to navigate the medical card process. At any retail cannabis dispensary, a customer only needs a state issued, picture ID that states they are over the age of 21. The changing attitude toward cannabis is also helping to boost the number of senior cannabis consumers. If youre looking for an alternative to the many pharmaceuticals that doctors keep prescribing, please investigate cannabis as that alternative.Editors Note: This article was submitted by Erica Freeman. Erica is the owner/operator of Choice Organics and may be reached at (970) 472-6337 or by email at admin@choiceorganicsinc.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.

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.

Advance care planningis a process that enables individuals to make plans about their futurehealth care. Advance care plans provide direction to healthcare professionals when a person is not in a position to make and/or communicate their own healthcare choices. The process of Advance Care Planning is important and appropriate for anyone 18 years or older.#listing_mgr{7 basic_search}#

Speech Therapy- refers to services to assess and treat speech and swallowing disorders. Speech therapy can treat speech, language, cognitive skills or swallowing. A Therapist provides individually designed treatment programs to maximize communication and swallowing. Depending on the nature and severity of the disorder, common treatments may range from changes in food consistence, physical strengthening exercises, repetitive practice, to the use of audio-visual aids. Occupational Therapy- Refers to services to assess and treat patients to improve their ability to perform tasks in their daily living and working environments. Patients may have mental, physical, developmental, or emotional disabilities. Therapists also help them to develop, recover, or maintain daily living and work skills. Occupational therapists help clients not only to improve their basic motor functions and reasoning abilities, but also to compensate for permanent loss of function. The goal is to help patients become as independent, productive, and satisfied as possible.Physical Therapy- refers to services for the treatment and the rehabilitation process where a physical therapist will often stretch, strengthen, facilitate muscles, challenge balance, test coordination abilities, teach home exercise programs and enhance basic mobility skills. Exercise techniques are only part of the special skills used by therapists to treat patients to help lessen disability, pain and improve overall function and quality of life. Therapists may also use special equipment when treating patients which help aid in the healing and recovery of an injury.#listing_mgr{1 basic_search}##listing_mgr{8 basic_search}#

How do I keep my Parents safe and at home?As my parents and grandparents age, I often compare the struggles they face now to the struggles I faced growing up. My safety and well-being were always first and foremost in their minds.Now that I am older, I find myself having those same feelings about safety and well-being. Only this time, its me worried about my parents safety. I finally understand what I put them through; I have the same loving concern for their safety that they had for me. Since the biggest concern for most older adults is staying independent and living at home for as long as possible, you must find the right home care agency that can help.As you or your loved ones are trying to navigate the complicated health care system, you must find a home care agency that is also an advocate and can help ask the right questions. In choosing the right home care agency here is a list of things to consider.Do they provide free care management/advocation to ensure you get the right help?Do they have a Certified Senior Advisor (CSA) on staff?How committed are they to the community? Do they volunteer? Do they donate back to the community?Are they a resource center? Can they help you find other services you might need or help you find the right senior living option if you cant stay home?How do they train their staff, how long is the training, and what benefits do they offer their staff?Can they help you find ways to pay for care other than you paying out of pocket? Do they take Medicaid? Can they help you easily get Veterans benefits?The biggest thing to remember as you or your loved ones are facing difficult health care challenges is that you are not alone. There are experts out there ready to help.Editors Note: This article was submitted by Jake Rankin, CEO Talem Home Care & Placement Services, MBA, Certified Senior Advisor (CSA), Certified Franchise Executive (CFE) He may be reached at 720-789-7350 or at Jake@Talemhc.com.

When preparing to make changes to your current living situation, you need to consider everything from legal, financial services, packing, moving and real estate disposition. And it doesnt need to be overwhelming. There are trusted advisors available for you, in fact, some of these services are complimentary.Deciding what to do with a long-loved home can be a challenge.The good news is there has never been a better time to sell. While the inventory is low, local buyers are out in droves and more are coming to Colorado from densely populated areas. As of this writing, interest rates are under 3%, the lowest we have seen in decades.The option of a reverse mortgage enables you to stay in your home using the equity in it for retirement. In a reverse mortgage, the equity you have built up over the years is accessed to use the money any way you want and your heirs are still entitled to the home and remaining equity.Whatever your needs, be assured you have trusted professionals who will answer your questions and help you plan for your best future.Editors Note: This article was submitted by Marie Jacobs, Seniors Advisor and Seniors Real Estate Specialist, specializing in One Stop Shopping for Seniors In Transition. You can reach her at 303-919-4122 or email: marie.jacobs@sothebysrealty.com.

The Parks Familys Storyby our family, for your familyThe Parks family envisioneda family-centered, positive caregiving community where friends and family would be excited to visit their loved one.When Mayo Clinicdiagnosed Jerry Parks, a former vice president at a large Minneapolis construction company,with Younger-Onset Alzheimers disease atage 56, it provided some answers for the chaos the Parks family had been experiencing.It didnotprovide a template for what comes next.When Jerrys family began toexplore long-termcare communities, they were unsatisfied with options available. The Parks family had a vision of what they wanted their fathers caretolook like, seeking to create a beautiful environment wherefamily members would be excited to visit their loved one and the local community would be inspired to embrace aging.With the support ofspouses and other friends and family members they put their passion project in motion.Together, they created Parks Place Memory Care, a beautiful place that looks and feels like home, with industry-leading safety features such as controlled entrances and motion detectors in every room for peace of mind. Their attention to detail continued with a state-of-the-art spa tub that fills in 60 seconds and delicious meals that can be tailored to each persons preferences.Carefully-selected staff focus on the ability of each person rather than disability. They partner with residents, encouraging them to use the skills and abilities they have and to stay active within the natural flow of daily life. Consistency of care is a priority at Parks Place. Staff take the time to learn each persons life story, and compassionately interact with them to bring moments of joy throughout the day.Editors Note: This article was submitted by Kaitlin Kelly. Kaitlin is Director of Marketing and Life Enrichment with Parks Place Memory Care and may be reached at 763-710-8484 or by email at Kaitlin.Kelly@ParksPlaceMemoryCare.com

Often times people who have loved ones in need of care, such as at an assisted living facility or a skilled nursing facility, are faced with the very real problem of having to pay for this necessary, but costly care. Medicaid is a government benefit that helps the largest number of people with paying for the costly care. Protecting the assets of a loved one for the remainder of their life is a primary concern. Another important issue to remember is that a healthy spouse may need the income of the sick spouse to continue to live in the community and at home. There are multiple options for protecting or maximizing the retention of income for a healthy spouse living at home. If your loved one is able to return home after a recent hospitalization, now is the time to review their estate plan, including a Durable Power of Attorney and a Last Will & Testament, to verify that adequate authority has been granted to the advocates so that the cost of obtaining Medicaid can be minimized and not face the delays of guardianship court. Act now while you or your loved one is competent to make the necessary changes to their plans. If your loved one is not capable of putting a plan in place, there are still solutions. Contact an elder law attorney specializing in these areas.Editors Note: This article was submitted by Lance M. McKinney, Elder Law Attorney, of Osterhout & McKinney, P.A., 239-939-4888.

To learn more aboutSunrise Senior Living at Holladay, CLICK HERE.As the calendar turns to spring, many people are looking forward to sunnier skies. Between cold, snowy days, political turmoil, and concerns about the coronavirus, it was a long winter indeed.According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the pandemic in particular has had a major impact on all of our lives. It has increased stress and anxiety resulting in reduced overall well-being.If you are looking for a few ways to boost your mood, we have some ideas for you to explore. Each is based onresearch that shows creativity can spark joy and lift the spirit.Finding Joy During Challenging TimesResearchers call itpositive affector PA. Its the feeling that comes when you look and feel happier. Studies show people experience higher levels of PA on days following greater creative engagement.Fortunately, you dont have to be Monet or Beethoven to reap the benefits associated with engaging in the arts. Its the very act of creating that seems to trigger happiness.If you arent someone who regularly explores your creative side or if you are looking for new ways to spark joy, we have a few suggestions for you to try:Take up stargazing:This doesnt require you to invest in pricey telescopes. Its a creative outlet you can learn about for free. It starts by learning the night sky.Sky & Telescopes Interactive Sky Toolallows you to enter your zip code, along with the day and time. It will chart the skies above you in all directions.This starter guide to astronomy (Northern Hemisphere Version)is another great resource to help you learn more.Be a friend to butterflies:Even if your outdoor space is limited, you can create a space for attracting butterflies. In a sunny corner of your yard or patio, dedicate some space for plants and water for butterflies. They are attracted to smaller flowers, especially milkweed. To protect the caterpillars that eventually become butterflies from predators, make sure to keep birdbaths and birdfeeders away. Finally, create puddling spots for butterflies to drink. Sink a bowl or bucket in the yard, and fill it with sand. Wet the sand down every day. Invest in a butterfly book, such asStokes Butterfly BookorThe Little Guide to Butterflies, to help you identify the different types that visit your yard.Create your own bouquets:Having fresh flowers in your home is another mood booster. It doesnt have to be anything more expensive than a bouquet picked up at the grocery store. If you invest in a few vases and containers, the opportunities for creating your own unique looks are endless. There are a variety of videos on YouTube that show youhow to arrange grocery store flowersin your home. If you prefer a more structured learning opportunity, sites likeAlices Tableoffer virtual floral arranging events. They even ship the flowers directly to your door!Build a charcuterie board:A popular trend in recent years is the charcuterie board. Its a great option when you are entertaining friends and family because it can be as simple or as complicated as you choose. You can stick with fruits and vegetables or meats and cheeses on your platter. Other options include dessert boards, breakfast foods, or childrens favorite treats.How to Build a Simple Charcuteriehas some good ideas to help you get started.Become a rock star:Music is another activity that has therapeutic benefits. It can calm, excite, and reconnect. The act of learning how to play an instrument also promotes better cognitive health. If you are new to music, consider taking a class to learn how to play guitar or the piano. For those who arent comfortable going to public spaces yet, there are virtual classes to join.

CLASS (A) a home care agency that provides any skilled healthcare service. Agencies with a Class A license may also provide personal care services. CLASS (B) a home care agency that provides only personal care services. An agency with a Class B license shall not provide any skilled healthcare service. STATE REGISTRATION (R) The State of Colorado does not license home care placement agencies. Placement agencies are registered with the state. Registration ensures that placement agencies are adhering to certain minimum standards such as background checks for caregivers and insurance requirements for agencies and caregivers.#listing_mgr{7 basic_search}#

Primary care providers (PCP) are the foundation for your medical care. As such, we lead the team of healthcare professionals and other specialists that provide you comprehensive care. So, we like to think of ourselves as the quarterback of your team.A PCP can be a MD, Doctor of Osteopathy (D.O.), Physician Assistant (PA) or Nurse Practitioner (NP). Your PCP will diagnose and treat common illnesses and medical conditions while teaching you about safe health behaviors, treatment options, preventative and self care skill as well as provide necessary screening tests and immunizations.PCPs detect undiagnosed health issues and start treatment promptly, ultimately resulting in better outcomes. We manage chronic disease, utilizing evidence based guidelines in order to achieve mutually agreed upon health goals. Evaluating the urgency of your medical condition and directing you to the best place for care, which may be referring to other medical specialists, is a key role your PCP plays as quarterback of your team.Communication is the key to success on any team. You need to take an active role with your healthcare team. Keep your quarterback PCP up to date on immunizations, surgeries, visits with specialists, family history and active medical illnesses. Schedule regular appointments and keep them. Keep a list of all current medications you take, including over the counter medications and vitamins. Share that information with your quarterback PCP and include why you take the medication, how often you take it and what the dosage is.If you have any concerns about your health, contact your PCP initially, they are the main healthcare provider in any non-emergency case. Regular visits to your quarterback PCP will reduce costly emergency room visits by catching problems early.Don't have a PCP? Parkview Adult Medicine Clinic serves patients ages 15 and above. We are staffed by four board-certified Internal Medicine Physicians, 21 Resident Physicians, one board certified Family Nurse Practitioner, and one board certified Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. In addition to providing comprehensive and compassionate care to our patients in our state of the art clinic, we offer sports physicals, CDL medical exams, and Assisted Living Facility visits. To make an appointment, call 719.595.7585.Editors Note: This article was submitted by: Marian Heesaker, Family Nurse Practitioner at Parkview Adult Medicine Clinic

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.

Its been three years since Dotties husband passed away. She took good care of him right up to the end. Thats what people do when theyve been married as long as Dottie and her husband. Shes on her own now and lonely. Bill always paid the bills and oversaw their retirement investments. Now, its up to her to keep track of everything.Dottie is at risk of being exploited and she probably already knows the individuals who may take advantage of her. The annual financial loss by elder financial abuse is estimated to be $2.6 billion annually. An individual doesnt have to have a large net worth to be a target.Here is who exploiters look for:Homeowners.they are home alone leaving them exposed to scam artistsLonely.sales and scam solicitations can fill a need for socially isolated seniorsDiminished reasoning and memory issues make older adults more vulnerablePredictable patterns of payments (pensions, social security, investment income) make elders more at risk for financial abuseThe perpetrators are not strangers, they are people seniors trust. The top three categories of perpetrators account for 46% of all reported elder financial abuse;* Trusted Professional 18%* Family Member 17%* Non-agency caregiver 11%People who take advantage of seniors are friendly and persuasive. They may start with small amounts of money and take more as time passes, if no one intervenes. They often rationalize their behavior by claiming the senior wants them to have the money/asset, doesnt need it anyway, or that the senior will never miss it.Here are the ways seniors and their families can guard against financial abuse:Have a reliable power of attorney, favor family members who do not live with the seniorKeep belongings neat; and list valuables (collectables, jewelry) in the householdReport instances of financial abuse to police and bank Compliance DepartmentUse an agency with an insured and bonded agency model that has employees as workers, not private individuals who have no accountability to a formal employerEncourage direct deposits of checksHave a safe and secure place where important documents are kept, such as POAs, WillsSeniors should talk to their family and make arrangements before severe illness or disability happens. Unfortunately, many cases of financial abuse are not discovered until a senior has passed away and the family discovers money or valuables missing from the seniors home or bank. This is a difficult financial and emotional situation that can be avoided.Editor's Note: This article was submitted by Bobbie Mecalo, CAPM, BSBA., co-owner of Abby Senior Care, Inc. Bobbiemay be reached at 303-699-8840 or by email atbmecalo@abbyseniorcare.com

Click here to begin your FREE search!You may be eligible for programs thatsave money on medications and other health care costs(such as copays and deductibles). People who have applied for these benefits can save, on average, $4,900 annually in assistance.Learn more about programs 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!

Adults make decisions every day in life. You make financial choices regarding banking, paying bills and managing assets. You decide with whom to socialize and also where to live. You make health care decisions such as consenting to or refusing treatment, obtaining medical records and choose a course of treatment when ill. But what happens if you are too sick or disabled to manage these decisions? Before it is too late, have you prepared for someone to act on your behalf in the event of a crisis or if you are unable to manage decisions on your own? Adding a person to your bank accounts is not the answer because, among other reasons, it is dangerous and places your accounts at risk. Thankfully, there is a key legal tool for substitute decision making called a Durable Power of Attorney.A Durable Power of Attorney means one person (the principal) gives legal authority to another (the agent or attorney-in-fact) to act on behalf of the principal. Durable means the agent can act when the principal loses capacity. A General Durable Power of Attorney permits your agent to manage any part or all of your financial affairs and property. A Health Care Durable Power of Attorney enables your agent to make any or all health care decisions if you become incapacitated. A Living Will allows you to spell out your desired medical treatment regarding life-saving procedures, artificial nutrition and artificial hydration if you become unable to speak for yourself and have a terminal illness, or are in a persistent vegetative state.Choosing the right person as an agent is a very important decision and should be given careful consideration. It should be someone who is trustworthy, honest, knows how to handle money and accepts the responsibility as an agent. This agent owes a duty to the principal called a fiduciary duty, which means the agent has to act in the principals best interest, in good faith and with care, and keep good records. Abuse by an agent or a breach of fiduciary duty can be punishable civilly and criminally. A principal has the control to revoke a Power of Attorney at any time.If you become incapacitated and have not executed Power of Attorney documents, court proceedings called Guardianship and Conservatorship may be needed for someone to obtain decision making authority, which is both time consuming and costly. However, this may be avoided by planning in advance the execution of Durable Power of Attorney documents, which give you greater control and freedom of choice in an affordable manner.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

Cooking for one or even two, presents challenges as we age. It can be difficult to shop and prepare healthy, well-balanced meals on a daily basis. Did you know the Older Americans Act provides grants to State and community senior organizations to help provide a healthy, well-balanced meals for older adults? Through the Community dining and home delivered meal programs, seniors struggling with isolation and loneliness or those who have difficulty buying or preparing meals for themselves have two great options! Older adults who have transportation can get a healthy meal and spend time with friends in a community dining setting. Homebound seniors, unable to shop, prepare or obtain meals, can also receive a nutritious meals delivered to their homes up to five days per week, often by a friendly volunteer.Community dining meals and those offered to homebound older adults are approved by Registered Dietitians and provide 1/3 of the daily nutrition needs of the average older adult. Older Adults must be 60 and older to qualify to receive meals or be a disabled person or spouse residing with an eligible individual. There is no income or asset requirement for community dining or home delivered meals. A suggested donation is requested and appreciated for all meals, however it is also not required. No one is denied a meal if unable or unwilling to contribute.While the importance of offering nutritious meals to older adults cannot be overstated, having the opportunity to join others for a meal in a community setting is a great way to get out of the house and see other people. No one likes to eat alone and having the ability to join others who are the same age, with a similar history and experiences can make for an enjoyable dining experience!For homebound seniors, having a friendly face greet them each day while delivering a nutritious meal, can be something to look forward to and serve as a daily well-being check. For more information on Community and home delivered meals, a contact list has been provided. If your County is not represented on this list, please call your local Agency on Aging and they will be able to assist you.This article was submitted by Leslie Edstrom, Community Planning Division Manager for The Agency on Aging Northeastern Illinois. Leslie has a Masters Degree in Public Administration with a specialization in Gerontology.

More than 65 million Americans nearly 1/3 of the adult population - will care for an elderly, disabled or chronically ill family member or friend this year.Caring for a loved one can be exhausting. Frequent trips back and forth to doctors appointments, cooking, cleaning, assisting with bathing and toileting, and managing a confusing array of medications can take a toll on a caregivers mental and physical health. Caring for someone elses needs often involves sacrificing your own, and most caregivers will tell you that the first thing to go is a good nights sleep. A full 90% of caregivers surveyed reported suffering from chronic sleep deprivation. Add the physical and emotional stress of caring for another person, and youve got a recipe for disaster, often resulting in a condition commonly referred to as caregiver burnout or compassion fatigue.Defined as a debilitating psychological condition brought about by unrelieved stress, caregiver burnout can result in feelings of hopelessness, anxiety, mood swings, loss of appetite, fatigue and a host of physical ailments. Prolonged unrelieved stress can also lead to more serious conditions, so its vitally important for a caregiver to practice self-care in order to avoid burnout. The first step in self-care is taking periodic breaks from caregiving. In addition to eating well, getting sufficient sleep and keeping an active lookout for signs of depression, its important to get out of the house daily for fresh air, exercise and social connection. Caring for yourself also requires having the courage to ask for and accept help when necessary. If friends or family members are not available to lend a hand, consider calling a caregiving service to provide daytime or overnight assistance so you can leave the house or get a good nights sleep, knowing that your loved one is in good hands. Caregiving services play a vital role in preventing caregiver fatigue by providing the help you need to care for your loved one and the time you need to care for yourself.Editorial Note: This article was submitted by Stephanie Rosuck, JD, Director of Marketing and Community Outreach for Cambridge Caregivers, a locally owned and operated caregiving service. Stephanie can be reached at 214-789-6546 or stephanie@cambridgecaregivers.com.

BRiTE is an innovative program that promotes brain and body health and wellness by providing our members with integrated activities in a social environment.The Creative Expression, Fitness, and Music activities offered emphasize the components of everyday life that are associated with better brain health among individuals with normal cognition.The BRiTE Wellness Program was developed to help promote a brighter life for older adults with mild cognitive problems. The Brain Training and Exercise Program exists online, with real people, in real time, doing real activities. The goal of the program is to create a supportive online experience for a community of individuals who have mild changes in their thinking or those wishing to proactively maintain their brain health.BRiTE exists entirely online and has been adapted for those individuals who are unable to come to an on-site program. Each participant has the added benefit of promoting socialization which is a major component of good brain health. The virtual program is offered Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 10:30 a.m.- 2:00 p.m. It is available to any senior living in the community who would like to socialize with others and challenge themselves with novel educational and fun activities in the privacy of their home.In order to participate, you must have a device (iPad, laptop of desk top computer) with Wi-Fi service. Having a device with Wi-Fi capability allows that participant to see and hear the instructors and other members. However, if no device is available, there is the option to call in from a land line or cell phone. If using a telephone, you do not have the ability to view the class session, but it allows you to hear the instructions and even respond and converse with other participants.In addition to the Creative Expression, Fitness and Music classes, each member has unlimited access to Smartbrain Pro, an interactive computer program that features thousands of interactive exercises with different levels of difficulty, which provides critical cognitive stimulation.Editors Note: Article written by Robin Sullivan, OTR/L, BRiTE Program Director and can be reached at 412/404-2405. Visit www.britewellness.org for more information.

For more information on the author, Cypress Springs, CLICK HERE!Winter can be a season full of cool, crisp afternoons, hot cocoa and snow-filled strolls. However, winter brings its own set of ailments and injuries. Between icy pathways, stiff joints and an increase in cold and flu cases, winter is a time that everyone, but particularly elderly adults need to take precautions to remain safe and healthy.Avoid The Winter BluesSeasonal Affective Disorder, also known as the winter blues, is the seasonal depression that typically accompanies the winter season. Less daylight, less time outdoors, cooler weather combined with the stress of the holidays can lead many to suffer from feeling more depressed. To avoid this, make sure that you are doing activities that will help combat these feelings. Keep curtains and blinds open during the daylight hours to take advantage of the sunlight. In addition, getting outdoors as much as possible can also help.And as always, staying connected to activities and people that bring you joy can help ward off any feelings of sadness that accompany the winter.Be Safe OutdoorsWhile getting outside is equally important in the winter, safety should remain a high priority. Ensure you are wearing proper clothing at all timeseven if the sun is out, warm clothing like coats, scarves, mittens and socks are a must. In addition, make sure your footwear is appropriate for wet weather and even icy conditions. This will keep your feet warm and help avoid falls and fall-related injuries.Relieve Stiff JointsWith the cooler weather comes stiff joints and discomfort. A few simple ways to help relieve your stiff or uncomfortable joints is to maintain some level of fitness year-round, particularly with low-impact exercises (i.e. water aerobics, etc.). If you do suffer from discomfort, soaking in a warm bath can help soothe them. In addition, some have even found that spicy foods can help relieve the discomfort in joints.Keep An Eye On Your HealthThe cooler weather can lead to a variety of different health issues. For one, heart attacks and other heart ailments are more common in the winter as the cooler weather puts more strain on the heart and can increase blood pressure. Cold and flu viruses often run rampant in the cooler months so load up on vitamins and nutrients and consult with your physician about preventative measures like a flu shot.

Lutheran Services Florida Sarasota Guardianship helps protect vulnerable adults in Sarasota, Manatee and DeSoto counties from abuse, neglect and exploitation.Guardians are appointed by the courts to act on behalf of those who cannot handle their own affairs due to physical injuries, mental illness, developmental disabilities, Alzheimer's disease or other age-related dementia. A guardian may be appointed to act on behalf of an individuals person, property or both.When LSF is named guardian, a professional staff team immediately conducts on-site visits to assess the situation and secure client assets. Case Managers conduct an assessment and financial staffers begin to marshal and secure client assets. Team members generate a plan of care, considering the clients standard of living and lifestyle to ensure individuals reside in safe, clean, healthy environments with appropriate care and services. Staffers organize finances and LSF begins to pay clients bills, monitor insurance issues, apply for benefits, and manage income and assets.The duties for guardianship of the person and/or property can be managed by LSFs professional staff without the need for a guardian through a combination of services. Services are tailored to the individuals needs and can include: Case Management (coordinate and monitor care needs) Serving as Power of Attorney Representative Payee (manage Social Security benefits) Trustee Authority Representative for Estates Health Care Proxy Assistance in Applying for MedicaidWhen you, your loved one or client needs Guardianship or Case Management Services, LSF is your best choice. Here's why. Availability LSF has 14 local available to meet clients immediate needs Staff is on call 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Stability LSF has provided Guardianship Services since 1982, with over 1,300 clients served in Sarasota alone. Financial Expertise LSF is audited annually by an independent CPA Auditing firm. Centralized Accounting allows for increased audit controls for bill payment and finance management. Professional Expertise LSF staff includes accountants, social workers, Certified Master Guardians, and developmental service workers.For information, contact Anne Ridings at 941-358-6330 or aridings@lsfnet.org

The emotional roller coaster of guilt, concern, regret, and the plethora of other feelings that go along with being a caregiver for someone with dementia and realizing that their continued health, welfare, and yours is in jeopardy is one of the most difficult realizations.Once the decision has been reached to look for a memory care community the next questions is what criteria to look at. In Massachusetts, there are many residential options where an individual with dementia can receive regular medical care as well as other personal services that will help them have a good quality of life.There are several specific criteria to consider when exploring a community. Some of the most pertinent are the medical expertise of the staff and staffing levels, the programing or activities, and the less empirical, but as important first impression.Every licensed community should be able to provide you with a document called the Disclosure of Rights and Services. This document outlines in detail the nursing staff on each shift and the ratio of staff to resident. The ratio is a good start when evaluating a community, but also look at the individuals providing the care. What experience do the nurses and aides have with caring for individuals with dementia?Next, ask for the program calendar. Are there any trips or outings? How often? How are these trips supervised? When considering a community be sure to try and meet and spend time with the program staff. Ask them about a typical day for residents.A memory care community should be visited several times. Things to look for:How do the residents look? Clean cloths, hair combed, etc.How does the area they are living in look? Carpets and floors clean, walls and paint in good repair?How are you received when visiting? Cordial greeting, offered a beverage, made to feel welcome?Talk to other residents family members. Ask them how they like the community.Finally, listen to your gut.Written by Mike Myers, Director of Sales and Marketing for The Commons in Lincoln

My friend Mary and her new husband were on their honeymoon when social services called to tell her that her infant granddaughter needed immediate placement, unless "grandma was willing to step up, the child would be placed in foster care".That was 10 years ago, they are all doing well, but life changed overnight for this newly married couple who thought they would retire in a few years.Life is what happens when you are busy making other plans; for nearly 34,000 grandparents in Colorado that statement could not be more true. Nearly 40% of those households receive no parenting help from the biological parents and 16% of those households are living in poverty. But; it is not all bleak; statistically most of the children in these (non-traditional) homes are thriving under the loving care of their grandparents.Second time around parents, have experience but there are challenges to starting over. There is support for these new families and resources a mouse click away. Locally, Health and Human Service, Mental Health, Partners, Hilltop Community Resources, and the school district are all good resources. If you are over the age of 55, the Area Agency on Aging can assist with local resources.If you have friends or family members who are new to this role they need your support.This new life will look different for everyone involved but make an effort to help your friends stay connected and maintain their identity. Perhaps you can offer the grandparents some respite by spending time with the children so they can have a break.Local and internet Kinship support groups, The Colorado Kinship Connection, Generations United, and Grandparents Raising Grandchildren are just some of the resources that are available. If there is not a kinship group contact your Area Agency on Aging or school district about starting one.The Montrose area support group meets from 6-8 pm the first Thursday of each month at 300 N Cascade Ave.Editors note: This article was submitted by Eva Veitch, Community Living Services Director for Region 10, ADRC; she may be reached at 970-765-3127 or email at eveitch@region10.net

Many feel an enormous weight of guilt or failure when struggling to care for aging parents. The pain of realizing that you can no longer personally meet your elderly parents needs is a huge burden for any child. Deciding your parent may need more time and specialized care than you can provide is not easy. You may need to consider issues such as: Are my parents safe in their current living environment? Can I devote the time to adequately meet their needs? Do I have it in me to manage a cognitive disorder such as Alzheimers? Am I able to help my aging parent with mobility issues or incontinence?Decisions like this often carries a heavy emotional toll and brings thoughts like: Should I be doing more? Am I doing things right? Is my elderly parent too much of a burden for me? Im so tired!When feeling guilty, adult children often tell parents what to do. Despite the best of intentions, they can increase resistance and trigger the number one fear of older adults: losing their independence.A different approach is to share your concerns with your parents. Use I rather than you to reduce defensiveness. For example, instead of saying you should move since you cant be alone anymore, you may want to say its becoming very difficult on me and the rest of the family to travel so many hours to see you. Ask your parents for their ideas on how to solve the problem. This step is a process and will not be solved with just one conversation.In his book, Telling Yourself the Truth, William Bakkus writes directly to caregivers feeling guilty: You did not cause this disease. Your loved one would not have wanted you to stop living. Being a caregiver is one of the most noble and wonderful things anyone can do for a loved one. You did the best you could under the most extreme care giving circumstances.It is important that you give yourself some time to adjust or to grieve, just know that the goal is to begin living again while keeping your loved one safe.Editors Note: This article was submitted by John Alagood, CSA. John is the Area Owner of Senior Care Authority and may be reached at (469) 333-8833 or by email at john.alagood@seniorcareauthority.com

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Theres a new concept and its available to all. Its called Functional Medicine. It deals with prevention of chronic disease rather than removing or covering symptoms once they arise.Our culture is experiencing an increase in the number of people who suffer from complex, chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, cancer, mental illness, and autoimmune disorders like rheumatoid arthritis. With Functional Medicine, you can start reversing these diseases and enabling your body to heal itself. This is very different from suppressing disease signs or symptoms with drugs, as is done with medications to make lab measurements look better. What if I told you there was something else that could support conditions like anxiety, autism, brain injury, depression,fibromyalgia, insomnia, migraines, obsessive-compulsive disorder, stress, stroke and more! Would you try it? Its called Neurofeedback. How does it work? The signal source varies based on the system used, but it involves audio or video of the patients choosing. The method iseasy, a patient can get better by listening to their favorite music or watching their favorite videos. The process is non-invasive, requires no drugs and is pain-free. Neurofeedback literally means brain and input, where the brain is monitored and input is given instantly. The result is an improvement in brain regulation, which can reduce or eliminate most neurological symptoms. Neurofeedback can work on anyone, no matter the age. We would love to discuss how Functional Medicine and/or Neurofeedback may benefit you. Call us to set up a consultation today. Say Bluebook for special discounts.Editors Note: This article was submitted by Dr. Justin Coop, with Inspired Health Center and may be reached at (630) 465-6685 or by email at drjustincoop@gmail.com.

People are living longer and healthier lives and it is not uncommon for people to reach 85, 90, or even older ages.Many however, loose their teeth over time due to decay or gum disease and end up with partial or full dentures. The dentures become loose, gum tissue becomes sore, and eating becomes very difficult. Seniors love to stay social, eat good, and share great times with family and friends without the embarrassment and difficulties that come with denture use. The quality of life is especially important at this stage and we need to do everything we can to improve it.Dental Implants dramatically improve life quality for many older individuals by letting them eat better, get better nutrition, stay more social, and lead active and vital lives. The advantage of Mini Dental Implants is the minimally invasive, single stage placement procedure. The insertion of the mini implants does not require the more invasive surgery involved with regular implants. The healing time is minimal and the best part is the denture can attach to the mini implants on the same visit!Dental Mini Implants allow patients to eat any food they want comfortable and get the necessary nutrition. Mini Implants effectively support the overlying dentures and help prevent movement and accidental dislodging. Mini Dental Implants also preserve the jaw bone and loss that occurs from conventional dentures. As a bonus, Mini Dental Implants are very reasonably priced. Its time to start enjoying eating and conversation again!Editors Note: This article was submitted by Donald E. Couchman, D.D.S. of Couchman Center for Complete Dentistry. He may be reached at 719-593-0263 or by email at info@couchmandental.com . Call our office today for a complimentary consultation; our friendly staff will be happy to assist you with an appointment

Individuals who can assist you with understanding the range of home care and housing options. They are prepared to ask you questions that help you narrow down your options and help you with resources that you can seek out prior to making decisions.#listing_mgr{7 basic_search}#

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.

For more information on the author The Sheridan at Lakewood Ranch, CLICK HERE.Assisted Living communities offer opportunities for enjoyment and relaxation where residents could thrive, paired with the expert, compassionate care Senior Lifestyle is known for. Many of these communities offer lovely outdoor spaces with gorgeous surroundings enjoying a walk with friends or taking in the sun. Inside of the communities, youll find the spaces are designed with socialization and recreation in mind, with plenty of cozy places to enjoy some rest and relaxation. These lively interiors are complemented by a calendar of programming, social events, activities, and even classes. We take care to ensure each residents enjoying their time with us, while making sure their unique wants and needs are met.Assisted Living communities offer similar spaces and lifestyles to Independent Living communities, but with additional care. These communities offer service and care options such as housekeeping, meal preparation, personal hygiene, medication management, transportation, or if you need help with daily living activities, and more. While our compassionate staff offers expert care, they also understand the value of maintaining independence and choice for our Assisted Living residents, and many of our communities offer comfortable amenities, lively events, and a wide range of programming options for residents to enjoy. Families and seniors can expect a bright, fulfilling lifestyle with a variety of lifestyle choices to ensure the right fit.Who is an Ideal Candidate for Assisted Living?The ideal candidates for Assisted Living are seniors looking for a vibrant and engaging community, but with a need for a little extra care with acts of daily living, personal hygiene, medication management, or other care needs.Assisted Living is a great choice for seniors looking for a sense of community, but with a need for additional care.To see if Assisted Living communities are right for you or a loved one, ask the following questions:Do you need significant health care assistance?Do you have trouble getting around without help?Do you have difficulty managing your own health and wellness, including setting doctor appointments medication management?What is a realistic budget for your retirement lifestyle?For a more in-depth look at your situation, and what sort of senior living community fits your needs, take our quick and easy Level of Care quiz.Eligibility Requirements for Assisted LivingThe eligibility requirements for Assisted Living communities vary between communities. As a general rule, communities set their own age restrictions, and most communities require that seniors are aged 55 or older, but others set the age requirement at 62 years. We encourage families to reach out to individual Assisted Living communitiesfor specific information about eligibility requirements.How affordable is Assisted Living?In terms of price, Assisted Living communities are generally more expensive than Independent Living, but it depends on the community. Utilities, services, amenities, and your cost of living are generally simplified into a single monthly cost, which can streamline expenses.Each Assisted Living community has its own unique character and services, so costs vary. The cost of your Assisted Living community experience depends on care needs, location, services, and amenities included in the Assisted Living community.For prospective residents in need of financial assistance, we offer Affordable Senior Living optionsto help offset the costs of Assisted Living. For more specific information about the costs associated with an Assisted Living, youll need to reach out to a community near youfor more information.Connect with an Assisted Living community todayIf youre considering a move that could help you or a loved one live a higher quality of life while promoting their ongoing health and safety, Assisted Living may be your best option. The best way to make an informed decision and determine the right fit for you is to visit an Assisted Living community.

Your mouth is the gateway to your body. This being so, your overall health and well being depends largely on the quality of your dental health. Your teeth enable you to chew food, speak clearly and give you a winning smile. These are all things that can easily be taken for granted, until they are taken away. An active approach to oral hygiene can help you keep those things that you don't want to live without. Every day your teeth should be cleaned and protected from harm. Pla