Alabama - Gulf Coast

Moving can be a stressful experience at any age, but it poses unique challenges for seniors. The emotional and physical demands of downsizing, relocating, and adjusting to a new environment can be overwhelming. At A Call to Order Professional Organizer, we understand the importance of making this transition as smooth and stress-free as possible. Senior Move Management is an art that combines empathy, organization, and practical solutions to empower elders during their move. This guide offers insights and tips on how to manage senior moves effectively.The Emotional Aspects of MovingUnderstanding Emotional AttachmentsSeniors often have strong emotional attachments to their homes and belongings, accumulated over a lifetime of memories. Moving can feel like letting go of a significant part of their lives. Acknowledge these emotions and approach the process with sensitivity and compassion.Tip: Spend time listening to their stories and memories associated with their belongings. This can help them feel valued and understood, making it easier to let go of certain items.Involving Seniors in the ProcessEmpower seniors by involving them in the decision-making process. This can give them a sense of control and reduce anxiety. Discuss their preferences, needs, and concerns regarding the move. Create a collaborative plan that respects their wishes and eases the transition.Tip: Break down the moving process into manageable steps and celebrate small accomplishments along the way. This can help maintain a positive outlook and reduce overwhelm.Preserving MemoriesWhile downsizing, its crucial to find ways to preserve cherished memories. Help seniors select a few meaningful items that can be prominently displayed in their new home. Consider creating digital photo albums or memory boxes to retain sentimental value without the physical clutter.Tip: Create a memory lane in their new home with framed photos, favorite books, or other treasured items. This can make the new space feel familiar and comforting.Practical Steps for a Smooth MovePlanning and OrganizationEffective planning and organization are key to a successful move. Start by creating a comprehensive timeline that includes sorting, packing, moving, and settling in. Assign specific tasks and deadlines to ensure a systematic approach.Tip: Use a color-coded labeling system for boxes and furniture to simplify unpacking and arrangement in the new home. This can save time and reduce confusion on moving day.Decluttering and DownsizingHelp seniors sort through their belongings to decide what to keep, donate, sell, or discard. Focus on the practical needs and available space in the new home. Encourage them to keep items that serve a purpose or bring joy, while gently guiding them to let go of unnecessary possessions.Tip: Set up a dedicated area for donations and arrange for pick-ups or drop-offs to charity organizations. This can streamline the decluttering process and provide a sense of contribution to the community.Hiring Professional HelpConsider enlisting the help of professional organizers or senior move managers. They bring expertise, efficiency, and emotional support to the moving process. Professionals can handle logistics, packing, and even the setup of the new home, allowing seniors and their families to focus on emotional well-being.Tip: Research and choose reputable senior move management services that align with your specific needs and budget. Personal recommendations and reviews can be helpful in making the right choice.Creating a Comfortable New HomeEnsure that the new living space is comfortable, safe, and accessible for seniors. Arrange furniture and belongings in a way that promotes ease of movement and accessibility. Personalize the space with familiar items to create a sense of home.Tip: Conduct a safety assessment of the new home to identify and address potential hazards such as loose rugs, inadequate lighting, or steep stairs. Simple modifications can significantly enhance safety and comfort.Empowering elders during their move is about more than just logistics; its about honoring their past, respecting their emotions, and creating a positive experience. Senior Move Management, with its blend of practical solutions and compassionate care, can transform a potentially stressful process into a journey of empowerment and renewal.At A Call to Order Professional Organizer, we are dedicated to supporting seniors and their families through every step of the move. By understanding the emotional aspects, involving seniors in the process, and employing practical strategies, we can ensure a seamless transition that celebrates the richness of their lives and helps them embrace the next chapter with confidence and peace.By following these tips and approaches, you can make a meaningful difference in the lives of your elderly loved ones, ensuring their move is not just a change of residence, but a positive and empowering experience.

Does Medicare Cover Long-Term Nursing Home Care?If youre 65 years old today, you face a 70 percent chance of needing some type of long-term nursing care at some point in your life. And about 20 percent of you will reside in a nursing home for longer than five years. But with nursing home facilities costing several thousand dollars per month, how do most residents cover the expense?You might assume that Medicare covers the cost of a nursing home, but thats a common error. In fact, Medicare only covers temporary stays in rehabilitative facilities for specific reasons. Otherwise, the bill for nursing home care falls on you. You can plan for this expense in a number of ways, such asLong-term care insurance. If you thought ahead, you might have purchased long-term care insurance at some point during your fifties or early sixties. This important retirement planning step can help you to manage the cost of long-term care in the future. Depending upon your policy, you might be able to choose from a range of facilities or even in-home care.Medicaid. While Medicare does not cover the cost of a nursing home, Medicaid (known by various other names depending on your state) does. This healthcare program, run jointly by the federal government and individual states, helps those with lower income and fewer resources to afford medical care and even the cost of a nursing home. However, not everyone will qualify.Even if you dont initially qualify for Medicaid, keep in mind that over time your financial status can change. Reapply if you think you might have become eligible, or work with an estate planning attorney who can help you learn about the asset rules.Self pay. And of course, many nursing home residents have simply chosen to self pay for the facility. This route might be feasible for those who have saved significant resources for their retirement years, and/or draw a generous Social Security benefit.For more information on covering the cost of a nursing home, give us a call to speak with a licensed agent. We can help you learn what to expect from your current Medicare policy and explore your other options.This article was submitted by Michelle Hylton who is a local, licensed and trained independent insurance agent who is certified with top Medicare Advantage, Prescription Drug and Medicare Supplement insurance plan carriers.  Contact Michelle for more information.

ALABAMA UPDATE CHANGES IN THE LAW AFFECTING SENIORSEvery year, there are hundreds of laws considered by our government that are designed to improve the living conditions of our local seniors.  Several have passed or are in process of passage that have helped our area citizens live their best life.  In March, 2021, the Elderly and Vulnerable Adult Act went into effect, authorizing financial institutions to delay or stop suspicious financial transactions.  In June, 2022, the Alabama Legislature passed what is known as Shirleys Law, which implemented an Elder Abuse Registry the first of its kind in the nation.  All medical practitioners are required to report those they suspect are victims of abuse and there are criminal penalties for failure to do so.  Those who exploit seniors are placed on the list and all guardianship proceedings must come with clearance from Adult Protective Services that the proposed agent is not on the registry.  Named for a woman who was financially exploited by a caregiver, this law will help prevent vulnerable adults from being exploited in the future.  The Alabama Legislature is considering the Colby Act or an alternative to Guardianship and Conservatorship which would enable an adult to enter into an agreement with supporters who assist them in making decisions.  For many Alabamians, this is a welcome alternative.  For example, young disabled people who have the ability to achieve independence with help may use a supported decision making agreement to formally enlist those they trust to help them make the right decisions.  There are limits to what this Act can achieve.  For example, this alternative may not be a good fit for those living with dementia, who are not capable of making sound decisions regarding their health or finances and may require a court appointed guardian to ensure their lifes work is not wasted and they do not become exploited.Do you know someone who you suspect is the victim of Elder Abuse? Call the confidential hotline at Adult Protective Services:  1-800-458-7214.This article was submitted by Kyla Kelim with Aging in Alabama.  Contact Aging in Alabama at 251-281-8120.

Support for Spouses of Cancer Patients: Insights from a Five-Time Survivors WifeWritten by Kim Potts. The spouse or partner, providing support for spouses of cancer patients, holds one of the most crucial and challenging roles on the cancer care team. As I have been dealing with my husbands cancer for 21 of our 32 years of marriage, I have a lot of experience in this role. I still get emotional when I hear the words five-time cancer survivor said about my husband Bill. Five is a significant number and instantly reminds me of the challenges we have faced and will face in the future. Here are some things I can share based on my experience.What NOT To AskMy heart ached as I listened to our friends ask Bill questions and provide unsolicited comments or advice about his cancer. For example: What are your odds? This question is the absolute worst question to ask a cancer patient, as the odds dont count. Bills response to that question was always 100%. It was 100% that he would either live or die. You will beat it because of your positive attitude. Bill and I have watched many cancer patients with great attitudes die, rendering this comment inaccurate.Let me tell you about my cancer! Bill needs to focus only on his cancer, not someone elses cancer. Bill, you will beat the cancer. Bill knew there was no guarantee he would survive. Recommending a doctor or treatment center without being asked. The patient should be trusted to make the right decision. Bill appreciates advice when he asks for it but unsolicited advice only creates angst. Safety FirstAs a cold, flu, or COVID can kill him during and after treatment, one of my roles has been to be the gatekeeper ensuring anyone who visited Bill was healthy. Patient safety is paramount. Those conversations had to happen any time someone came to see Bill. Before I let them in the door of our home, I had to ask how they were feeling. Bill often sat outside if a plumber or electrician needed to come to our house.Lead with LoveBill has also found great comfort in friends visits, calls and texts. He especially enjoys it when they call and ask him about the favorite meal he is craving then order it, pick it up and bring it over to eat with him! We both love visiting with friends and not talking about cancer. My spirits improve when I hear friends and family tell Bill, Bill, I love you. He then tells them he loves them back. This show of love has been magical for him. Bill finds the presence of family and friends comforting, even if nothing is said.  Self-Care is CriticalAs the burden of caring for a cancer patient is significant, you must take care of yourselfphysically, mentally and socially. I worried who would take care of Bill if I got sick, so I eat well, get enough sleep and exercise often. I spend time in devotion each evening. Through tennis and volunteering, I have a robust group of friends. All of this helps me better deal with the emotions of the cancer journey. But I realize now that I tried to do too much. I did not utilize outside resources like SYNERGY HomeCare to give me a break. I would have benefited greatly from some time away from caring for Bill, for someone else to care for Bill so I could care for myself. Even a half day off would have been remarkable. So, as a spouse, get all the support you need. Outside resources provide this support. Your partner needs you!Kim Potts is married to Bill Potts, the author of Up for the Fight: How to Advocate For Yourself as You Battle Cancer, from a Five-Time Survivor. Kim is a successful business owner, tennis player, mom and best friend to Bill. There is more on Kim and Bill at billcpotts.com. Contact SYNERGY Homecare of Daphne for more information and a free assessment at 251-621-1900.   They provide non-medical home care in Baldwin, Escambia and Mobile counties in Alabama.