Colorado - Colorado Springs

Whether your estate is small or large, planning is essential to maintaining control of your health and assets, ensuring your loved ones are provided for, protecting your hard-earned dollars, and preserving your legacy.There are several issues you may want to consider. First, have you planned for the possibility that you might have long-term healthcare needs, either in your home or in a nursing facility? Do you have savings or long-term care insurance to cover the costs? If not, have you sat down with an Elder Law attorney to discuss Medicaid planning?What legal documents do you have in place, and how recently have you had them reviewed? Most people need either a Will or a Revocable Living Trust as the foundation of their estate plan, depending on their goals, the size of their estate, and the types of assets they own. If you own any real estate or at least $50,000 in other property and want to avoid probate, a Living Trust should be considered. Many people falsely believe that a Will avoids probate and are surprised to discover that their families will endure a process typically taking between 9-24 months and costing an average of 3-4% of the gross value of their estate that's $15,000-$20,000 on a $500,000 estate!Not only will a properly drafted Living Trust avoid death probate, but it also keeps your family out of the legal process that might otherwise be required if you become disabled. The other documents you need in case of incapacity, either temporary or permanent, are financial and healthcare Powers of Attorney, Living Will, and a Universal HIPAA Release that will enable your family members to communicate with your medical providers in the event of an emergency.A qualified estate planning attorney can help you put your plans into place, giving you and your loved ones a sense of peace don't put it off!Editor's Note: This article was submitted by Catherine Shell, founder of Hammond Law Group, LLC. and an estate planning lawyer in Colorado Springs. For further information she can be reached at 719.520.1474

Diabetes is a significant health concern for older adults and seniors, affecting nearly 30% of adults aged 65 and older. As people age, the risk of developing type 2 diabetes increases due to factors such as slower metabolism, changes in body composition, and decreased physical activity. For seniors, managing diabetes can be particularly challenging due to the presence of other age-related conditions, which can complicate treatment and impact overall health. Left unmanaged, diabetes can lead to serious complications that affect quality of life and increase healthcare needs.One often overlooked aspect of diabetes care is the connection it has with mental health, especially depression. The relationship between these two conditions is complex and can significantly impact overall well-being. With a better understanding of why diabetes and depression are linked, seniors can adopt practical ways to effectively manage both to lead a healthier, more fulfilling life.Understanding the Link Between Diabetes and DepressionResearch shows that people with diabetes are more likely to experience depression than those without the condition, and vice versa. The interplay between diabetes and depression can be attributed to both physical and emotional factors:Biological Connection: The bodys insulin resistance can affect brain function, increasing vulnerability to depression. Similarly, inflammation, which is common in diabetes, may influence brain chemistry and mood.Emotional Strain: Managing diabetes can be mentally exhausting. The daily routine of monitoring blood sugar, watching diet, and taking medication can lead to stress, frustration, and even feelings of hopelessness, especially for seniors who may feel isolated.Physical Health Impact: Depression can also worsen physical health by increasing fatigue and reducing motivation to engage in self-care. When depression is present, seniors may struggle to maintain the routines and behaviors necessary for effective diabetes management.Practical Ways for Seniors to Manage Diabetes and DepressionIf you or a loved one are managing both diabetes and depression, youre not alone, and there are strategies to make this journey easier. Here are some key approaches:Create a Supportive Healthcare TeamA team-based approach can be especially helpful for seniors. Ensure that your primary care provider, diabetes educator, and mental health specialist are communicating with each other. This coordination can lead to more personalized care, adjusting treatments as needed to improve both physical and mental health.Prioritize Routine and Self-CareA consistent routine can provide a sense of control and stability, which is beneficial for managing both conditions. Simple daily habits such as a balanced diet, regular sleep, and taking medications on time can have a significant impact. Additionally, regular exercise, even just a 20-minute daily walk, helps regulate blood sugar levels and boosts mood by releasing endorphins.Watch Blood Sugar and Mood TogetherMonitoring blood sugar levels is essential for diabetes management, but paying attention to mood changes is just as important. Keeping a journal can help seniors track any patterns, noting how blood sugar levels might correlate with mood swings. This information can provide insights for healthcare providers to adjust treatment plans effectively.Stay Socially ConnectedIsolation can exacerbate depression, so maintaining social connections is crucial. Seniors can benefit from regular visits with friends, family, or joining local clubs or hobby groups. Many senior centers and local community programs offer opportunities for social interaction and even virtual gatherings.Explore Mindfulness and Relaxation TechniquesPractices like meditation, deep breathing exercises, and yoga can help manage stress, which is important for both diabetes and mental health. Regularly setting aside time for mindfulness can improve emotional well-being and reduce anxiety, which in turn can have a positive effect on blood sugar levels.Seek Therapy and CounselingFor seniors diagnosed with diabetes who are experiencing depression, counseling or cognitive behavioral therapy can be a game-changer. Speaking with a licensed therapist helps process emotions, develop coping strategies, and feel supported. Therapy is accessible for seniors, often covered by Medicare or other insurance options.Recognizing When to Ask for Help as a Senior DiabeticIf managing diabetes and depression becomes overwhelming, dont hesitate to ask for help. Caregivers, family members, and professional senior care services can step in to provide essential support. Whether its meal planning, medication reminders, or simply offering companionship, there are resources to help seniors manage their conditions with dignity and care.Set Your Diabetes Management Goals This MonthNovember being National Diabetes Awareness Month provides a timely reminder for older adults and seniors on the importance of managing diabetes as part of healthy aging. Regular monitoring, a balanced diet, physical activity, and medication adherence are essential for maintaining stable blood sugar levels. Additionally, social support and professional care can make a big difference, helping seniors to better manage their condition and minimize its impact on their lives.Properly managing diabetes can help seniors increase their quality of life and avoid many of the common complications associated with the disease. At Amada, we care greatly about the well-being of our senior clients. Thats why we strive to provide comprehensive resources and guidance for older adults with diabetes. If youre interested in learning more about non-medical, in-home care to support your diabetes management, contact a local Amada senior care advisor today.

Coming to the decision that it is time to move Mom or Dad into assisted living is never easy. Finding the right place where they will thrive is hard enough. When financial resources are tight, it is even more difficult to find a place that they can call home. As a Care Director, I speak regularly to those who are looking for assisted living placement. As we talk, one of the first questions I ask is if their mom or dad served during a time of war. That may sound like an odd question however, there is a very important reason for it.Did you know if your parent served during a time of war, and are age 65 or older, they may be eligible for a TAX FREE benefit called Aid and Attendance through the VA? Aid and Attendance provides money that helps pay for assisted living, or care as veterans age. While the process of applying can be a little tedious, there are incredible Veterans organizations that work everyday to help navigate the application process. Most veterans and their spouses start receiving their benefits in just a few months after their application is submitted.While the amount of benefit varies, the following chart provides estimates of benefits based on various circumstances.Surviving Spouse: $1,244 Monthly/$14,928 AnnuallySingle Veteran: $1,936 Monthly/$23,232 AnnuallyMarried Veteran: $2,295 Monthly/$27,540 AnnuallyTwo Veterans Married: $3,071 Monthly/$36,852 AnnuallyAgain, this is a TAX FREE benefit that can make a tangible difference in the level of care your loved one receives. Ive personally seen the difference these funds can make. I am a firm believer that all who served should have our deepest, heartfelt gratitude, and exemplary care every single day of their lives. Aid and Attendance paves the way for our veterans to live their lives in Assisted Living Care facilities that are committed to excellence and the highest standard of care! For those who are interested in pursuing this benefit the form can be found at https://www.vba.va.gov/pubs/forms/vba-21-2680-are.pdf.Editors Note: This article was submitted by Nancy Ruminski, Care Director at Crestview and Larry D McCall. She can be reached at 719-644-1377

While oral health becomes increasingly important with aging, unfortunately, it is often neglected as it might be challenging for seniors to visit a dental office. In-home dental care is an excellent solution as it can help seniors maintain their oral health without leaving the comfort of their homes. In this blog post, we will explore the benefits of in-home dental care and why it is becoming an increasingly popular option for seniors.Highly ConvenientBecause it eliminates the need for seniors to travel to a dental office, saving them both time and energy, in-home dental care is incredibly convenient. For seniors who struggle with mobility issues, leaving their homes can be a significant challenge. In-home dental care eliminates this challenge, allowing them to receive the care they need without leaving their homes.Personalized Dental CareIn-home dental care is also far more personalized than dental appointments where dentists are often in a rush. In-home dental care allows seniors to receive one-on-one attention. A relaxed setting encourages dental professionals to get to know the unique needs and concerns of each of their senior clients. This personalized attention can go a long way in helping seniors feel more comfortable and confident in their oral health care.More Preventative than Ever BeforeAnother benefit of in-home dental care is that it can help prevent severe dental problems and dental emergencies. Those seniors who neglect their oral health are at a higher risk of getting cavities, gum disease, and even oral cancer. With regular in-home dental care, dental professionals can catch and address oral health issues early on. This can help to improve senior clients overall health and well-being.Get the Dental Care You NeedIn-home dental care is an excellent option for seniors who have dementia or Alzheimer's disease. These conditions can make it challenging for seniors to remember to take care of their oral health. In-home dental care can provide them with the support they need to maintain good oral hygiene and prevent dental problems.More AffordableIn-home dental care is more affordable than traditional dental care. Many seniors who live on fixed incomes may struggle to afford regular dental appointments. With in-home dental care, seniors can save on travelling costs. Overall, in-home dental care can make oral health care more accessible to everyone.In ConclusionIn-home dental care is an excellent option for seniors who want to maintain their oral health without leaving their homes. It is convenient, personalized, and can help prevent dental issues before they become more severe. It is also an excellent option for seniors who have mobility problems or conditions such as dementia or Alzheimer's disease. Finally, in-home dental care can be more affordable than traditional dental care, making it accessible to everyone. If you are interested in learning more about in-home dental care, including Enable Dental's services, please visit our website. We offer a range of dental services all in the comfort of your own home and would be happy to answer any questions you may have. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and start receiving the personalized dental care you deserve.