Senior Housing Guide - 2014-2015

Bellevue • Bothell • Issaquah • Kenmore • Kirkland • Mercer Island • Redmond • Sammamish • Snoqualmie Valley

EASTSIDE SENIOR HOUSING HEALTHHOUSING HEALTHGuideA

ND

Adult Day Care

BeatingWinter Blues

Adult Day Care

BeatingWinter Blues

The Upside ofOver the Hill

Manage Your Medications

MedicareEnrollment Tips

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2700 Richards Road, Ste 201, Bellevue 98005

425.453.4270 Bellevue Reporter 425.391.0363 Issaquah Reporter425.391.0363 Sammamish Reporter 206.232.1215 Mercer Island Reporter

425.867.0353 Redmond Reporter425.822.9166 Kirkland Reporter 425.483.3732 Bothell Kenmore Reporter

EASTSIDE SENIOR HOUSING HEALTHHOUSING HEALTHGuideA

ND Need to know for 2015: Health

reform’s impact on MedicareBy Je� Underwood

Seniors and other Medicare bene� ciaries should be aware that this year – perhaps more than any year in the past – is an important one to pay attention to their Medicare coverage options during the Open Enrollment Period (Oct. 15 – Dec. 7). And that’s because of the A� ordable Care Act (ACA).

The ACA brings with it notable changes to Medicare, from more preventive care bene� ts to changes in costs, and bene� ciaries need to understand both the upside and downside of such changes to best evaluate their options during the Open Enrollment Period.

Adding to the challenge of this year’s Medicare changes is broader confusion around the ACA itself. UnitedHealthcare conducted a survey in 2013 called the Medicare Made Clear Index and found that 76 percent of people ages 60 and older say they have a “fair” or “poor” understanding of the ACA.

Thus, the Open Enrollment Period

becomes an even more critical time of year because, for most Medicare bene� ciaries, it’s their one annual opportunity to make changes to their Medicare coverage. After all, Medicare is not one-size-� ts-all, and a lot can change in a year in terms of health status and budget as well as the plans that are available.

I encourage the hundreds of thousands of Medicare bene� ciaries and their caregivers to take advantage of this annual opportunity to make sure they have a Medicare plan that will meet their needs for the year ahead. People can shop for and compare plans in their area at www.Medicare.gov.

Je� Underwood is the regional vice president of UnitedHealthcare Medicare & Retirement in Seattle. Serving nearly one in � ve Medicare bene� ciaries, including more than 282,000 in Washington, UnitedHealthcare Medicare & Retirement is the largest business dedicated to the health and well-being of seniors and other Medicare bene� ciaries.


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Adult Daycare? Senior Services, a federally-funded

information and referral service for King County, provides the following questions to ask for those interested in Adult Day Care.

Questions to help caregivers decide if Adult Day Care is the right choice

Questions to consider in deciding whether adult day care can help you and the frail or disabled person you know or are caring for:

1. Is the person idle? Does she or he sleep a lot throughout the day, or sit all day, perhaps in front of the television?

2. Does the person have a low interest in her or his surroundings or interacting with other family members?

3. Does the person seem sad, lonely, or confused? Do you feel that she or he would bene� t by more social and recreational activities during the day?

4. Do you lack time and energy to take care of your own needs? Do you need more time for yourself, or to be with other family members and friends?

5. Are you also parenting children?

6. Are you also working part or full time?

7. If the person is not living with you, are you often worried about this person?

8. Have you thought about a nursing home, but feel guilty when you have these thoughts?

9. Are you spending a lot of time providing routine care for the person, such as cooking, dressing, and toileting, and � nd that you have less time for talking or doing activities with the person?

If your response to one or several of these questions is Yes, you may � nd that both you and the person you are caring for would bene� t from adult day care. The following section provides some questions to help learn more about adult day care programs in your community.

Questions to help you choose an Adult Day Care Program

Adult day care programs in the Seattle/King County area di� er in the size and types of programs they o� er. Senior Services suggest that you read about programs that may not be in your immediate area. It is possible that one of the programs located farther from your home will better suit your needs, and that transportation can be arranged to this program.

It is important to call and arrange a visit with the day care programs you are thinking about so that you can gather information before you select a program. The director, sta� , or volunteers will be glad to talk with you and provide you with a tour of their programs.

Questions to ask when you visit:

1. Will your schedule work with the program’s days and hours of operation, and the program’s transportation schedule/services?

2. Can transportation be arranged if the program cannot provide this service?

3. Can the program provide for any special dietary needs?

4. Are there enough sta� and volunteers to assist the participants?

5. What training does the sta� receive? Who provides training in prevention of accidents such as falls or burns, � rst aid, medical emergencies, � re safety, and other safety and emergency needs?

6. Are the kitchens, restrooms, and activity areas clean?

7. Is the sta� trained in ways to help frail and disabled people to stand, walk, and sit? Who provides this training?

8. What social and recreational programs are provided? Are these appealing to the person who will be attending the program?

9. What social services are provided which you might need, such as counseling and assisting with housing, � nances, and other needs?

10. What health care services are provided which you might need?

11. What sta� is present to provide counseling to people who are feeling low, or need to talk about personal

problems?12. Does the program sta� have regular

contact with family members or care providers? How do they do this?

13. Do the current participants seem to be actively enjoying the program?

14. Does the sta� assist with needed toileting, such as changing protective pads, wiping body, changing clothing, reminders to assist the person with toileting tasks?

15. Can you a� ord the total monthly fees?

For information to help you choose a program, call Senior Services’ Senior Information and Assistance, 206-448-3110, 1-888-435-3377,[email protected] or at www.seniorserbices.org.

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Turning 65?Know your Medicare optionsBy Catherine Field

Approximately 11,000 adults become eligible for Medicare every day, re� ecting a dramatically increasing senior population, and that number is only going to grow. Here in Washington, the 65 and older population is expected to increase from 13.9 percent of the overall population in 2015 to 18.1 percent of the overall population by 2030.

As Seattle residents approach their 65th birthday, it is important for them to know their Medicare options, including when they can enroll and the types of health plans available.

Seniors should keep an eye out for materials from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services in the months leading up to their 65th birthday. In the meantime, it can’t hurt to pull information together to prepare. Following are tips to help seniors and their caregivers as they begin the Medicare plan selection process:

• Original Medicare (Parts A and B) is a federal insurance program that o� ers basic coverage for hospital care and medical expenses and no coverage for prescriptions. Bene� ciaries typically must pay a premium for

Part B coverage. Many fi nd they need additional coverage for services not covered by Original Medicare.

• Medicare Supplement plans pay some of the costs that original Medicare doesn’t cover, including deductibles and coinsurance. Bene� ciaries must pay an additional premium.

• A Medicare prescription drug plan, or Medicare Part D, provides prescription drug coverage, helps lower prescription drug expenses and protects against higher costs in the future. Bene� ciaries must pay an additional premium.

• Medicare Advantage (Part C) typically provides extra bene� ts, services and often prescription drug coverage. Bene� ciaries may or may not pay an additional premium.

This year, during the annual election period, from Oct. 15 to Dec. 7, seniors who are eligible for Medicare can review Medicare Advantage and Medicare Part D plan options and select health care coverage for 2015. However, people turning 65 before October can enroll earlier in the year. In fact, they have a seven-month window

– known as the initial enrollment period – to enroll. This includes the three months before their 65th birthday, the month of their birthday and the three following months. If a 64-year-old enrolls in the � rst three months of their IEP, their benefi ts kick in on the � rst day of the month of their birthday. If they enroll during the remainder of their IEP, their benefi ts will be e� ective on the � rst day of the following month.

Seniors should review their records to see how much they spent on health care during the past year. This should include hospital expenses, pharmacy costs and doctor bills. Then, determine if the previous year was typical, and try to calculate your best estimate for health care costs in the year ahead.

If you are considering a Medicare Advantage plan, research the costs, bene� ts and network of doctors and hospitals associated with each plan. Take advantage of resources available to help you with the research to make an informed choice. The government’s Medicare website, www.medicare.gov, is a good resource that lets you � nd and compare Medicare health and prescription drug plans in your area. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services make it easier to navigate the Medicare landscape by rating health

plans on a � ve-star assessment grade.Insurers often o� er multiple

Medicare Advantage plans from which bene� ciaries can choose to � t their speci� c life, income and health situations. Bene� ts from these plans may include primary care and specialty o� ce visits, routine physical and preventive care, unlimited medically necessary inpatient hospital days and worldwide emergency care. Some plans include membership in � tness classes and lifestyle enrichment programs.

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services prohibit Medicare Advantage carriers from proactively contacting you by phone or in-person. They can only reach out to you once you have initiated contact. To protect yourself from potential scams, don’t give personal information to any uninvited home visitors or solicitors who call selling Medicare Advantage or Medicare Prescription Drug Plan products.

If you’re approaching your 65th birthday, it is important to start considering Medicare options to select the plan that best � ts all of your needs.

Catherine Field is director of operations for Washington and Oregon at Humana.


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Are you ready to downsize or move to a senior residence? Are you considering selling the family home?

If the answer is yes, you need to hire a Seniors Real Estate Specialist with senior experience, knowledge and marketing savvy who can help you with resources, and counsel you regarding lifestyle and � nancial transitions that you may not have considered.

But why should you use such a specialist and what can he or she bring to your next real estate transaction and who are these designees?

SRES designees are licensed Realtors who have completed additional education requirements that give them the skills necessary to handle the more complicated transactions of senior real estate. They have specialized training and understand the � nancial and emotional challenges senior clients face when they sell a long-held family home.

Not only can they create a customized approach to marketing and selling your property, but also they also work with you to explore your housing options making certain that your next home best serves your current and future

needs. These senior certi� ed specialists also surrounded themselves with a group of professionals and can tap into their network and put you in touch with quali� ed home inspectors, movers for seniors, attorneys, certi� ed public accountant, estate planners and other experts who have great knowledge of the senior community.

As we age, we demand specialists in our health needs, so why not in our housing and equity needs as well? A seniors specialists brings:

Expertise, patience and compassion throughout the transaction

A customized approach to your situation

Expertise with products and services and a list of various websites that keep you up-to-date about health issues and concerns for the senior community

Francine Schneider serves seniors’ real estate needs in the Eastside/Greater Seattle areas, and also volunteers for the Eastside Friends of Seniors, a nonpro� t organization helping seniors who are facing the challenges of aging in place.

Despite the fact that people live longer and are more active in their later years, aging is still associated with decline, loss, and debilitation. That’s nature’s way, like it or not. But does that mean older folks should despair? Perhaps, but few actually do. In fact, feelings of happiness, or at least contentment, seem to be most common among the maturing crowd.

A possibility may be that older people � nd it easier to derive pleasure from relatively ordinary experiences such as taking a walk, sharing a meal with loved ones, or pursuing a hobby. Another explanation may be a little bit more complex. In his milestone publication, “A Theory of Human Motivation” (1943), the psychologist Abraham Maslow introduced his now classic theory of “Hierarchy of Needs,” where he distinguished between a number of human needs, reaching from basic survival to self-actualization when nearly all human potential can be realized.

Maslow used a graphic depicting the shape of a pyramid. More basic needs – like food, shelter, health, safety –

support higher ones – like self-esteem, respect, creativity, etc. Higher needs cannot be met if there is signi� cant de� ciency among the more basic ones. Although he does not explicitly use the term, we can assume that Maslow would consider the quest for happiness as part of the higher needs. It is easy to see that this can only be achieved with time – in other words, with age.

But the hierarchical structure of our needs is not static, but rather is made up of constantly changing priorities. That doesn’t mean everything is relative and therefore meaningless, not even when we look back from long distance. In my own life, I continuously revisit my needs in multiple departments to see if they are su� ciently attended to. That doesn’t mean I have no longer any ambitious goals to pursue or dreams to chase. But I also know how to take a break when the chase is over. And that has its rewards, too.

Timi Gustafson R.D. is a registered dietitian and author of the book “The Healthy Diner – How to Eat Right and Still Have Fun,” which is available at amazon.com. timigustafson.com

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Tips for Using Painkillers Safely

With so much talk about drug use in America, you may not realize that some of the most potentially dangerous drugs are sitting right in many home medicine cabinets. More people die daily from prescription painkiller overdoses than from heroin and cocaine combined according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Driving the problem is access, as enough painkillers are prescribed annually to medicate every American adult around the clock for one month, according to the CDC. And in many of these cases, the pills are not a necessary treatment to manage pain, say experts, as safer alternatives are available.

“Prescription painkillers are often prescribed when safer medications could be used. Unfortunately, long-term use of opioid painkillers, such as OxyContin or Vicodin, can lead to addiction that patients never intended to have,” says National

Safety Council Medical Advisor, Dr. Don Teater, who is also the Medical Director of Mountain Area Recovery Center.

Patients can become advocates for their own safety, says Teater. He recommends the following tips to reduce danger and increase safety for anyone prescribed a prescription painkiller:

Talk to your DoctorAre non-opioid painkiller

alternatives a possibility for you? Talk with your doctor about your options, including over-the-counter possibilities. If an opioid is still prescribed, request the lowest dose possible for the shortest duration.

Make sure your doctor knows about all other medications and drugs you take and about how much alcohol you consume.

Safe HabitsKnow how long the medicine

will be in your body, whether and when you can drive and what other limitations will a� ect your routine. Avoid mixing opioid drugs with alcohol, sleeping pills and anti-anxiety medications. Opioid medications should be kept in a locked container or locking medicine cabinet so that only the patient has

access to them.Nearly 70 percent of people who

misuse prescription medicines report getting the drugs or taking them without asking from friends or family members, according to a survey from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.

Safe DisposalDone with your treatment? Never

save leftover opioids for later use and never give them away. Doing so can risk the medication getting into the wrong hands or being used for recreational purposes.

Just be sure that when you do dispose of medications, you do so properly.

Take-back programs and other community safety events allow the public to bring unused drugs to a central location for proper disposal, and many pharmacies o� er mail-back programs. If these services are not easily accessible for you, you can go online to learn about safe medication disposal options.

More safety tips and facts can be found at the National Safety Council website at www.nsc.org.

Take steps to learn more about the prescriptions you take, and their possible consequences.

With so much talk about drug use

Manage your medicationsBy the Northwest Regional Council

Know your medicine• Before you leave the hospital, get a current list of your

medicine, the dose and how to take them.• Learn about the side eff ects of each of your meds.• Ask about ALL medicines — those before the hospital and

the new ones added in the hospital.• Have a plan to keep your medicine organized.

Organize your medications• Setting your medications up once a week in a medi-set helps

you to keep track of the meds you need totake every day. It also helps to make sure you take them at the

right time of day.• If you have trouble organizing your meds, community

pharmacies are available, for a fee, to set up your meds and deliver them.

Ask Questions about your medicine• Be sure to ask questions like:

– What are they for?– How should I take them?– When and how often should I take them?– Will I need to continue taking them once I feel better?

• Always ask. You need to know. You will stay healthier and safer when you get all of your questions answered before you go home.

• It helps to use one pharmacy for all medications so the pharmacist can check for any negative interactions.

Getting your new medications• When you are leaving the hospital, have a plan for getting

your new or changed medications. Don’t miss a dose.• If you use a mail-order pharmacy, tell the nurse and social

worker so they can:— Get your medicine orders faxed to the mail-order

pharmacy.— Arrange for a “short fi ll” of new and changed meds to

tide you over until you get your order in the mail.• Some pharmacies are closed at night or on Sundays. Work

with the hospital sta� to make sure you don’t miss doses.• After discharge, arrange to go to the pharmacy right away

for your meds .• If you can’t aff ord your medicine, talk to the social worker

well before discharge.


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Tips for Beating the Winter BluesSni� es and � u are not the only

a� ictions of winter. Many people � nd that the dark and cold days can impact their mood. In fact, seasonal a� ective disorder (SAD) a� ects approximately 10 million Americans, and another 10 to 20 percent of the public may have mild SAD, according to Psychology Today.

Coupled with busy lives, the winter blues can put extra strain on one’s relationships and psyche. Luckily there are simple lifestyle changes you can make to help lead a happier, less stressful life during winter.

Healthy HabitsFeeling blue can be compounded by

unhealthy habits. Limit alcohol and get plenty of rest to feel your best. Eat foods bene� cial to brain health, such as those that contain omega 3 fatty acids.

Be sure to exercise daily, as physical activity can boost serotonin and dopamine levels in your brain. While the days may be shorter, try to take advantage of the sunlight each day with a brisk walk at lunch -- remember to bundle up though, a winter cold is never fun!

Get CozyOne of the causes of winter blues

is light deprivation. If you have a � replace, counteract the shorter days by adding a � re to your daily routine.

Dinner, reading, relaxing, watching TV, and even working can seem more enjoyable by adding the light and warmth of a � re, say the statistics. Indeed, 89 percent of people say having a � re is extremely important, important or somewhat important to their wintertime quality of life, according to a recent survey jointly conducted by the American Institute of Stress (AIS) and Dura� ame, which creates � re-related products, including � re logs and � re starters.

A � re can o� er stress relief, creating an opportunity to gather friends and

family in a relaxing ambiance. Whether you’re alone or with a group, consider making it a hassle-free experience by using a manufactured � re log, which produces robust, bright � ames and burns signi� cantly cleaner and more e� ciently than a typical wood � re.

Take a BreatherConsider setting aside more time

each day to mentally and physically recuperate. Nearly 60 percent of people take an hour a day or less to wind down and relax, according to the AIS and Dura� ame survey, and more probably should.

Try this quick stress relief exercise, “The Quieting Re� ex,” recommended by Dr. Daniel L. Kirsch, president of AIS:

• Smile inwardly with your eyes and mouth, relaxing your facial muscles. Think of something heartwarming or amusing while you do this. This starts to counter stress immediately.

• Next think of the expression: “Alert Mind, Calm Body” to counter negative thoughts.

• Slowly take a deep breath while visualizing it as warm air coming in from pores, or holes opening up in the bottom of your feet and slowly moving up into your lungs.

• While you exhale, visualize a wave of warmth and relaxation slowly � owing through your body exiting through your feet, like the spreading warmth you feel when sitting by the � replace.

You can’t control the seasons, but by being proactive, you can get back to enjoying your winters.


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How to Help a Loved One Get Through a Tough Time

Whether self-induced or unavoidable, there are a host of pitfalls that life can throw one’s way, and everyone faces a crisis at some point in his or her life. When it happens to a friend or family member, knowing how to be supportive can be di� cult.

“One of the grandest gifts we can extend to friends and family who are in trouble is the gift of our time,” says Beth

Wiseman, author of the new novel “The Promise,” based on a friend’s experience being held captive in Pakistan.

Wiseman, who worked with government agencies to help extract her friend from a dangerous situation and then supported her upon her return to the States, is o� ering tips to anyone looking for ways of being helpful to someone going through a tough time.

• Be present: When one is at the center of a crisis, it’s often hard to see the light for all of the darkness. Friends and family can help that person see past the ‘nows ‘ of a situation toward what the future can bring.

You can be a source of positive encouragement and a reminder that things won’t always be this way. Your troubled friend may simply need a sounding board. Identify in what capacity you can be helpful and then ful� ll that role.

• Give your time: So often, our time is limited and precious, which makes it worth more than monetary o� erings. Perhaps that is cooking a meal, running errands on his or her behalf, or babysitting.

• Don’t say “I told you so” No one needs to hear advice on how he or she could have avoided a bad situation after the fact, particularly when he is su� ering. You

don’t need to agree with someone’s decisions or actions to � nd ways of being supportive. So skip the “I told you so.”

• Be patient: Often times, when people are going through a rough patch, they may need space more than help. Approach the situation delicately and thoughtfully so you are not adding to his or her stress.

• Have perspective: In the thick of it, don’t forget that trauma can be life changing and often has a silver lining. We are stronger than we think.

“It’s how we react, endure, and survive that will mold our future, not the actual event itself,” says Wiseman.

For more information about Wiseman’s new novel, “The Promise’s and the author, visit www.BethWiseman.com.

Being more than just a fair weather friend is not always easy, but it’s important. The next time a loved one is in need, tread lightly to discover the best way you can help him or her through it.


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A Time of TransitionFor many people, there comes a time when the lifestyle that used to � t them so perfectly no longer serves their needs best, prompting the need to � nd something more comfortable and better � tting.

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For Older Adults, Regular Exercise May Stem Aging E� ects

One out of every three adults over 65 years old falls each year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. And for older adults with dementia, the risk of falling is three times higher than those with no cognitive impairment, according to the AARP Bulletin.

However, research supports the notion that many of the physiological

changes related to aging -- such as loss of balance -- can be prevented or postponed with regular exercise. With this in mind, it’s no surprise that many senior living communities are making comprehensive health and wellness programs available to their residents.

“We’re seeing residents increase their mobility, endurance and balance, and improve their range of motion and

� tness levels,” says Katie Westberg, national director of Life Enrichment at The Goodman Group, a company that has developed a new � tness program for its senior living and health care communities.

Additionally, Westberg cites that participants feel better and are having fun, showing quick results to their overall well-being, “Many of the residents involved in our FIT Functional Fitness program start seeing long-lasting and signi� cant strength training bene� ts within an eight to 16 week period.”

The experts behind the FIT Functional Fitness program, a new, national, personalized functional � tness program developed by The Goodman Group in partnership with a physical therapist and board certi� ed geriatric specialist, are o� ering some tips for older adults looking to improve their well-being and restore their vigor.

• Engage in exercises that can improve your core strength, balance and cardiovascular health. If you live in a senior living community, inquire about on-site programs. Additionally, many community centers and health clubs conduct exercise classes designed speci� cally for senior health.

• Invest in a stationary bike. It’s easy to incorporate this activity into your day while watching TV, listening to music or talking to your family, and pedaling lowers blood pressure, according to AARP.

• Consult your physician before getting started. Your exercise routine should take into account your current health level and functionality as well as your physical needs.

• Food and health are directly correlated, so pair your exercise with healthy eating. The FIT Functional Fitness program at The Goodman Group, for example, incorporates local, organic, seasonal produce as well as lean protein alternatives and plant strong ingredients in their menu options.

• Stick to it. Results may come quickly, but a long-term health bene� t requires commitment.

For more information about senior � tness and health programs, visit www.TheGoodmanGroup.com.

While you can’t stop time, research shows that with exercise, you may feel better, longer.


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Tips for the 2015 Medicare Annual Enrollment Period

If you’re 65 or older, you probably know that the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period runs October 15 through December 7. Generally, this is the only time you can make changes to your coverage.

According to Herb Fritch, president of Cigna-HealthSpring, a leading health service company and Medicare insurance provider, here are some things to consider:

• Determine priorities. Make a list of priorities -- such as lowering out-of-pocket costs -- and use it to compare plans.

• Understand the diff erent parts:

Part A refers to hospital insurance. The amount of the deductible depends on the length of the hospital stay.Part B refers to basic medical

insurance for doctor visits and other health care services. Medicare pays 80 percent of approved charges while you pay 20 percent in addition to a monthly Part B premium and annual deductible which will vary based on your income. Supplemental plans like Medigap and Medicare Advantage can help cover the 20 percent gap and most off er extra bene� ts.Part C refers to plans operated by

private companies that combine Part A and B bene� ts. Most include Part D prescription drug coverage, off er no or low monthly premiums, and extras like vision, dental and gym membership bene� ts.Part D refers to Prescription Drug

Plans off ering at least a standard level of coverage set by Medicare; some are available as stand-alone plans.

• Do your research. Benefi ts diff er from company-to-company and even state-to-state, so do your research. Look beyond premium cost to ensure there aren’t hidden copays or fees that will end up costing you more. Pay close attention to medication quantity limits and make

sure your plan off ers adequate drug coverage.

• Pay your Medicare Part B premium. Even if you’re enrolled in a private Medicare plan, you must continue paying your Part B premium. If you’re having trouble, contact your local Medicaid o� ce to see if you qualify for a¬†Medicare Savings Program.

• Don’t settle. Priorities change, so the plan that worked when you were 65 may not be best when you’re 75. Plans also change year-to-year so review before renewing.

• Know your network. Many plans off er choices with a network of doctors. If you visit a doctor out of network, you could be responsible for out-of-pocket costs. However, networks off ered by Medicare Advantage choices, can foster better coordination among doctors, leading to better care. Ask your doctors what plans they accept or check your network directory.

• Don’t worry about the Exchanges. With a few exceptions, Medicare will be a better option than the Exchanges (also called ‚“Marketplaces”). In fact, it’s illegal for someone to sell you an Exchange plan if they know you have Medicare.

• Use free resources. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services” Plan Finder helps you compare costs, covered medications and other items. Many insurance plans off er free seminars with no obligation to sign up. You can also check companies‚“ websites or call their Customer Service number for more information. Local agencies on aging can also be helpful.

This open enrollment period, make sure your health plan works for you.–StatePoint


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DID YOU KNOW?State law provides two tax bene� t

programs for senior citizens and the disabled: property tax exemptions and property tax deferrals. Yet more than 26,000 quali� ed seniors and disabled persons have yet to register for the exemption, and only 1 in 100 of those eligible for deferrals are currently enrolled. Details of these two programs are provided below. The process of applying is fairly simple.

Under certain circumstances, you may be eligible for a property tax deferral or exemption.

Senior Citizens/Disabled ExemptionQuali� cations include:• Annual household income of $35,000

or less

• Own and occupy a house, mobile home, condo or co-op,

• 61 years of age by December 31 of the previous year, or

• Retired because of disability or

• Veteran with a 100% service-connected disability

• You are a widow, or widower, or state registered domestic partner at least

57 years of age whose spouse or state registered domestic partner had an exemption at the time of death

Once qualifi ed, you continue to bene� t from the exemption but any change in circumstances must be reported to the assessor to avoid penalties. For information, call the King County Department of Assesments at 206-296-3920.


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What can I expect with In-Home CareIn-home care o� ers seniors and their families the convenience of care delivered in the comfort of home.

Most families believe they must move their parents to a care facility when sometimes they only need a little extra help. In-home care services allow seniors the opportunity to age in place, safely and securely in the comfort of their own home. These services provide support to help preserve seniors’ dignity and independence as well.

Below is a listing of typical in-home services. There may not be an immediate need for all of these services now, but the great thing about in-home care is that it o� ers plenty of options that can be added or modi� ed as needs change—all in the comfort of home.

Additionally, you can expect real value from in-home care. Instead of contracting with a variety of providers that may specialize in errands, or transportation, or housekeeping, or meal preparation, you can contract with an in-home care agency to take care of all these needs and more….

Personal Care Services• Bathing to help seniors maintain proper hygiene and to refresh their sense of well-being.

• Mobility assistance to promote activity and exercise for a more healthful lifestyle as well as improve mood, decrease stress and increase mental alertness.

• Transferring and positioning seniors to help maintain functional activity, relieve pressure areas on the skin, reduce atrophy and sti� ening of muscles, and promote proper breathing, digestion, and elimination.

• Toileting and incontinence care to sensitively help seniors maintain dignity.

• Oral hygiene to prevent bad breath, tooth decay, and gum disease and assist in prevention of other diseases.

Companionship & Care Services• Conversation and companionship to provide seniors social contact at meal time or other moments of the day to enhance health, happiness and quality of life.

• Meal preparation to help seniors maintain good nutrition for healthier living.

• Light housekeeping, such as vacuuming, dusting, sweeping and mopping � oors, cleaning bathrooms and kitchens, taking out the trash, straightening rooms, organizing closets and drawers, cleaning interior windows.

• Errand services, such as picking up prescriptions and going to the post o� ce.

• Grocery shopping with or without the client.

• Respite care to relieve family members who are assisting with the care of their loved ones. This allows family time to run errands, go shopping or get much-needed rest.

• Medication reminders. In-home caregivers cannot administer medications, but can remind the client to take medications and assist in opening medication containers and reading labels.

• Incidental transportation to doctor appointments, barbershops, beauty salons, shopping, wherever the

client likes or needs to go.

• Laundry services, which include washing, drying, ironing and putting things away.

• Recreational activities, such as card and board games, a walk in the park, crafts, hobbies, and outings to church and other favorite places to help seniors stay active in mind, body and spirit.

• Mail assistance and organization to separate junk mail from important mail and to assist seniors with their bills.

• Periodic review and communication with family to provide updates on their loved one, answer any concerns or rede� ne services that may be needed.

• In-home safety devices that monitor seniors when they are home alone, for their safety, and enable them to quickly summon help with the push of a button in an emergency.

By Kim Sanchez is the owner of Comfort Keepers of South King County, a leading provider of quality in-home senior care. She can be contacted at (253) 945-1400.

How to live life to the fullest

Older adults experience a lot of transitions in their lives through loss of friends, family members, careers and even health. If you can balance those losses with positive changes you’ll age better. One of the bene� ts of moving into any sort of senior housing is the increased opportunity for socialization. Yes, exercise and eating right will help you stay vital and healthy as you age but probably the best way to age gracefully is to be socially engaged.

Normal changes in the brain as you age make it more di� cult to learn new information or remember things. By keeping your mind stimulated, you can ward o� dementia (not prevent it) and depression, both of which are health concerns for aging. One study by the Rush Alzheimer’s Disease Center in Chicago found that highly social seniors had a 70 percent lower rate of decline than their less social peers.

Social networking: Most senior housing options provide computers and even classes to help their residents stay connected through Facebook, email and other social networking options. While many consider computers the domain of the younger set, the 74-plus demographic is the fastest growing internet group when it comes to social networks.

Join a group: Of course you don’t have to spend time in front of the “screen” to get social interaction. Most housing options o� er activities such as trips or classes and the opportunity to learn more about a favorite hobby. A typical day may o� er the option of an exercise class, a lecture or chance to meet with a local politician, a fun excursion or shopping trip and of course meals in the dining room.

Volunteer: With someone else handling things like mowing the lawn, housekeeping and laundry service, you’re schedule is freed up to volunteer either in the community you live in or in the greater community. Organizations such as Senior Corps or RSVP, speci� cally look to seniors to provide volunteer services and more and more organizations are cropping up to take advantage of the experience and energy of the Baby Boomers and older set.

Senior Centers: Most senior residential facilities have some tie-in with local senior centers. As the Baby Boomers have aged, senior centers have moved from a place for a game of cards and a meal to become highly active but still a� ordable places to � nd clubs, exercise groups and arts and crafts. While you can still � nd bridge games, you’re also likely to run into people who snowshoe, travel to museums or learn woodworking.


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What can you do now to manage your own healthcarebefore you become a patient in the hospital?

Here are some things you should know about how to navigate your way through the healthcare system before, during, and

after you leave the hospital.Plan aheadTalk to your family, friends,

neighbors, or members of your faith community about who is able to help you if you become ill.

Purse or wallet? Make sure you carry a complete list of your current medications.

Carry a copy of your personal health record and have a copy in a visible place in your home in case of an emergency.

Talk to your doctor and your family about your health goals and about your advanced care directives.

Older adults and hospitalsSome key facts:• 20% of people who are 65+ will be

hospitalized within a 12-month period.• 70% will be admitted through the

emergency room for an unplanned visit.• 1 in 5 seniors will be readmitted to the

hospital within 30 days of discharge.• The second visit may be longer and

more complex

Healing care• Hospital stays are much shorter now. • Two to three days is common. • Discharge is most likely to happen when

you are not completely ready.• Most of your healing care may take place

at home.• There are some things that you can do

to ensure that you don’t wind up back in the hospital.

Bring an advocate• Having a family member or friend to

help you when you are in the hospital is important

• It’s a busy place with shift changes and di� erent people providing care. You need your advocate to provide continuity and to make sure your concerns are addressed.

• It’s complicated! You will need assistance in managing your care.

Tips for discharge• Two heads are better than one! On the

day of discharge, be sure to have your advocate with you to listen to the

discharge instructions.• Ask questions about the warning signs

of a worsening condition.• Ask your advocate to make notes to help

you remember later.

Four key steps for a successful hospital stay... and a successful discharge.

1. Manage your medications.2. Know your warning signs of a

worsening condition.3. Make & keep all follow up appointments

with your doctor.4. Keep your own written personal health

record.

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Signs of Forgetfulness: Is it Normal or is it Dementia?

A common issue retirees face is forgetfulness. But when does forgetting go from being a normal part of aging to something more? Many things can cause an older person to become forgetful, irritated, or confused — medicine, a change of environment, new activities, or even depression. Research indicates that the best people to spot forgetfulness are family members or people around the individual dealing with the issues. Trust your instincts when it comes to noticing memory challenges in a loved one. If there is su� cient concern, then arrangements should be made to visit a neurologist who can screen a patient for dementia and provide appropriate support and treatment.

Behaviors like these in a family member should be discussed with a doctor to evaluate the person for dementia or Alzheimer’s disease.

Persistent or increasing forgetfulness, beyond the occasional misplacement of car keys or a forgotten phone number.

Confusion or a sense of being dazed, unsure of one’s surroundings.

Being prone to wander by walking the same pathways indoors or outside, without purpose or direction. When this occurs at night - and it frequently does - it is called “sundown syndrome.”

Impaired speech - although other things can cause this as well, like medication, stroke, or illness.

Extreme agitation, irritability, or anger. Everyone gets upset occasionally, but if it happens often, or for no apparent reason, it should be checked.

Contact your local mental health organization for information about screening for dementia or other mental illnesses if symptoms like those above persist.

Elders depend on family members for care and safety. There’s no shame

in seeking an evaluation for a confused loved one, and perhaps placing that person in a supportive environment, such as assisted living. But it could be a crime not to address this behavior, especially if the person wanders outside and gets lost or falls down the stairs, a frequent occurrence in this age group. Early steps taken can protect a loved one and ensure that they remain safe and secure.

© 2011 - Rajiv Nagaich Rajiv Nagaich, is an Elder law attorney and senior partner of the law � rm, Johnson and Nagaich PS. He hosts a weekly radio show that can be heard Saturday mornings on AM 570 KVI from 8 until 9 a.m. and on AM 770 KTTH from 10 a.m. to noon. He can be found on the web at agingoptions.com.


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MEDICARE INSURANCE QUESTIONS?

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Join the TELOS program for retirees at

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If you are a retiree,there is no shortage of activities at Bellevue College. Since 1976, TELOS has been o� ering compelling, non-credit courses to retirees. It is part of Bellevue College Continuing Education’s mission to lifelong learning.

Topics at TELOS range from art, literature, history, current events, � tness, and more. Classes are taught at the college’s convenient and accessible North Campus, where the emphasis is on learning, growth and fun. Classes are non-graded, taught in a relaxed atmosphere and meet once a week throughout quarter. Each quarter o� ers new and exciting topics.

A popular class is Read Everything Into It (A Reader’s Theatre) taught by Penny Rathbun. The class is a low stress way to perform a script without worrying about costumes or memorization. Characters are portrayed just by the voice.

Another class explores new forms of � tness with Ken Wright’s Beginning T’ai Chi for Older Adults. This course is aimed at beginners to increase balance, centering, and grounding. It provides stress reductions and relaxation.

TELOS is also always looking for new and interesting class ideas. If you have one, call 425-564-4400 or 425-564-4007.

If you are a retiree,Financial Tips for RetireesMost people think once they’ve

retired they no longer have to worry about � nancial planning. After all it’s too late right? But if you consider that you’ll need to stay � nancially viable for two, three or potentially even more decades after retirement, it becomes readily apparent that while the “real” work may be done, the � nish work is still in process. It takes some adjustment to living on a � xed income. But with careful planning you can secure your � nancial happiness.

Health care costs can be devastating. An uncovered illness or injury can endanger a lifetime’s worth of work, which is why it’s of vital importance to ensure that you have selected the type and amount of insurance coverage you need. Not only doesn’t Medicare cover everything, many physicians and facilities will not accept Medicare. Shop carefully for your coverage by selecting doctors and facilities in your vicinity and asking them which insurance plans they honor. Get to know and understand the Medicare and Medicare Rights Center websites

Some people want to continue to work or volunteer after retirement and if you or your spouse can take the option of qualifying for health care coverage through an employer it is an excellent method to avoid large medical bills.

Increases in income can push you into another tax bracket. As a result, making a little more can cost you more. Having a � nancial advisor can help you determine timing but you can also check with the IRS website to ensure you don’t cross an expensive line.

Just because you qualify for Social Security doesn’t mean you should claim. Social Security bene� ts pay out as early as age 62 but you basically spend the rest of your life penalized for early withdrawal. If you claim while you are still working, taxes on Social Security may also come into play. Social Security employees are not necessarily the best resources for � nding appropriate timing or claiming

strategies as it’s not their job to help you maximize your bene� ts only access them. There are tons of online resources available to help you decide when and how to claim as well as � nancial advisors that can make deciding easier.

Most experts suggest that you don’t spend more than 4 percent of your retirement funds per year. To stick to that strategy, you’ll need to be aggressive about keeping track of your expenses and � nding ways to winnow them down without turning your retirement into a long boring math problem.

Hospice Care:Separating Fact From Fiction

In the living room, a grandfather laughs and plays video games with his granddaughters. Later, he joins the rest of his family to say grace before enjoying a meal together. Moments of life like these may seem ordinary to most; so you may be surprised to learn this grandfather, Robert Mihelbergel from Bu� alo, N.Y., was dying and on hospice care.

Many people think that being on hospice means lying in a bed, barely conscious. Mihelbergel was a patient who proves that is not case. Many of his � nal moments were anything but ordinary and they would not have been possible without the help of hospice.

Mihelbergel’s experience is not unique. The mission of hospice is to provide specialized care for end-of-life patients and their families. More simply, hospice care supports living one’s life to the fullest with dignity regardless of how much time remains. When Mihelbergel was diagnosed with cancer, he wondered “if there was any chance of getting my quality of life back while I was still alive. I knew at that moment it was time to call hospice,” he said in an interview prior to his passing.

There are many common myths about hospice, here are a few:

Myth: Hospice care means leaving home.

Fact: Hospice services can be provided in a patient’s own home, a nursing home, long-term care facility or a hospice care center. Hospice is not a place. In fact, hospice services can be provided to a terminally ill patient and his or her family wherever they are most comfortable or wherever they consider home. Mihelbergel’s wish was to make sure he was able to stay home at the

end of his life. Hospice made it possible for his son, Eric, and his family, to move into the home and enjoy dinner together four to � ve times each week.

Myth: Hospice means forgoing all medical treatment.

Fact: Hospice nurses and physicians are experts in the latest medications and devices for pain and symptom relief. In every case, a hospice provider will assess the needs of the patient, deciding which medications and equipment are needed for maximum comfort. For example, Mihelbergel’s medical sta� provided sleep medication to help him through the night. “I am speaking from the heart when I say hospice provides not only superb medical care, but also o� ers compassion that I would not have gotten anywhere else,” he said in the interview.

Myth: Hospice means strangers care for you.

Fact: Hospice provides a dedicated team of specialists to suit the needs of each patient and educate family members. Hospice organizations strive to educate family members to serve as the primary caregivers for an end-of-life patient. In addition, “The doctors, nurses, aides, social workers, therapists and chaplains who make up my hospice team are there whenever I need them,” Mihelbergel said. “All I have to do is pick up the phone and someone from hospice is there to help.”

Myth: Hospice care ends when someone dies.

Fact: Hospice organizations o� er bereavement services for all ages. Hospice counseling services that deal speci� cally with grief and coping after the loss of a loved one are available at no cost for up to a year after someone dies. Mihelbergel’s son credits hospice as something that he and his family

can always look back and re� ect on in a positive way. “As di� cult as it was, it was really special to all be together. My wife and I talk about it all the time now,” Eric Mihelbergel says.

Myth: People on hospice are in bed, waiting to die.

Fact: Hospice enables special moments and memories at the end of a life that would otherwise not happen. Mihelbergel called hospice because he wanted to live happily and with dignity, restoring a quality of life that he would have otherwise lost to invasive treatments and surgeries. In a � nal letter chronicling his hospice experience, he wrote, “If I inspire others to call hospice, I know I’ve made a di� erence.”

To learn more about what hospice can do for you or your family, visit MomentsOfLife.org.— Brandpoint


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Thanks to hospice, Robert Mihelbergel was able to spend some of his last moments at home with his granddaughters.

Is vision loss inevitable with age? The answer may surprise you


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Eighty-three percent of U.S. adults believe their eyesight will worsen as they age, no matter what preventive steps they take, according to a recent DSM Nutritional Products survey. While genetics and lifestyle factors do play a role for some serious eye conditions that cause vision loss such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD), years of proper nutrition may protect vision in the long term.

More than 2 million Americans age 50 and older su� er from AMD, and it is especially prevalent among Caucasian women. “You don’t want to reach your 40s and realize that you’re beginning to have vision problems,” says Dr. Kimberly Reed, optometrist and Ocular Nutrition Society board member. “Following a few simple recommendations can help support your vision — and your family’s vision — now and in the future.”

Reed o� ers these tips for maintaining eye health and supporting vision in the long term:1. See your diet in color

Many brightly colored fruits

and vegetables contain lutein and zeaxanthin, two powerful antioxidants that research shows are bene� cial in maintaining macular health. Intake of 12 mg per day of lutein and zeaxanthin o� ers the best protection, but only 10 percent of Americans are getting enough of these essential nutrients, according to the American Optometric Association. For weekly meal planning this year, choose colorful fruits and vegetables that provide these important antioxidants, like spinach, kale, and other dark leafy greens, as well as corn, peas, broccoli, and orange and red peppers.

2. Omega-3 fatty acids for eye health

A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition showed that people with higher intakes of omega-3 fatty acids may experience a lower incidence of dry eye syndrome (DES). For patients who su� er regularly from dry eyes, omega-3 intake can signi� cantly improve symptoms and increase quality tear production. Adults

should get at least 1,500 mg per day of DHA and EPA either by consuming fatty � sh, such as salmon, mackerel, and sardines, or taking high-quality � sh oil and algae supplements. Be sure to check with your physician if you are taking medications that a� ect blood clotting before increasing your intake of omega-3s to this level. For women who are pregnant or nursing, DHA is an essential nutrient to support infant visual development.

3. Remember your vitamins and minerals

An array of vitamins and minerals also play an important role in maintaining eye health. For instance, A and B vitamins perform many complex and critical functions throughout the body, including the eyes. And, according to a study published in Ophthalmology, vitamins C and E, which function as antioxidants, are also essential to eye health and have been shown to impact the progression of certain forms of AMD. Finally, zinc helps deliver vitamin A from the liver to the retina in order to produce melanin, a protective

pigment in the eyes. Get your � ll of at least � ve servings of colorful fruits and vegetables, as well as nuts and legumes, per day to obtain these essential vitamins and minerals.

Even when striving to follow an optimal diet, it’s di� cult to get the recommended amounts of essential vitamins and nutrients from food alone, so nutritional supplements can play an important role in maintaining eye health. Several products speci� cally formulated to support eye health and vision are available, so ask your eye health professional at your next appointment.

For more nutrition information, visit www.vitaminsinmotion.com.—Brandpoint

vitamins perform many complex and


LEARN MORE ABOUT THE MANY FREE SERVICES WE PROVIDE:

Senior Services promotes positive aging for older adults throughout

King County — from the frail, homebound elders to the healthy,

active Baby Boomers.

Through our integrated system of quality programs and senior centers, we build a just society where aging adults and those who care about

them can live their best lives.

OUR SERVICES INCLUDE:

Information & Assistance

Meals on Wheels & Mobile Market

Community Dining

Volunteer Transportation

Hyde Shuttle

EnhanceFitness & EnhanceWellness

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Family & Caregiver Support

Senior Rights Assistance

Statewide Health Insurance Benefits Advisors (SHIBA)

Senior Centers, including Sno-Valley Senior Center (Carnation) and Northshore Senior Center (serving

Bothell, Kenmore, Mill Creek & Woodinville)

206.448.3110 » WA Relay [email protected] www.seniorservices.org

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Forever Young:5 ways treating

hearing loss can revitalize your life Listen up, boomers: Do you want to stay active? Vibrant? Socially engaged? Professionally successful? Most of us do.

So maybe it’s time to do something about your hearing.

Chances are, if you’re like many Baby Boomers, you’ve rocked your way through your fair share of concerts, night clubs, and ear-blasting parties. And you’ve enjoyed years of other noisy recreational activities to boot. Simply: You’ve been enjoying life. You’ve spent decades doing it. And it’s been loud.

So now, it’s not always so easy to hear the conversation around the table at the restaurant or dinner party — maybe not even in the conference room at work or on those teleconference calls.

Face it. All that enthusiastic living has been hard on your ears. And now they’re screaming for your attention.

You should give it to them.In fact, addressing hearing loss is

one of the best things you can do to improve your quality of life and keep up a youthful pace.

Fortunately, for most people with hearing loss, today’s state-of-the art hearing aids can help. In fact, eight out of 10 hearing aid users say they’re satis� ed with the changes that have occurred in their lives due to their hearing aids.

Many boomers are surprised to learn that dramatic new technological advances have revolutionized hearing aids in recent years. Many hearing aids are virtually invisible, sitting discreetly and comfortably inside the ear canal. And they adjust to all kinds of noise environments, picking up sound from all directions. Some are even waterproof.

Perhaps best of all, seamless connectivity is now the norm. Today’s hearing aids are wireless and stream sound from your smartphone, home entertainment system, and other electronics directly into your hearing aid(s) at volumes just right for you.

Here’s what getting a hearing test and using professionally � tted hearing aids, if recommended by a hearing care professional, may do for you:

1. Unlock your earning potential. Hearing your best at work helps you do your best. One study found that using hearing aids reduced

the risk of income loss by 90 to 100 percent for those with milder hearing loss, and from 65 to 77 percent for those with severe to moderate hearing loss. And people with hearing loss who use hearing aids are more likely to be employed than their peers who don’t.

2. Open the door to greater intimacy. Don’t let those sweet nothings go unheard. Feeling emotionally close to your partner is one of the most satisfying aspects of any intimate relationship. But it rests on good communication. When hearing loss goes unaddressed, it can make even the most loving partner seem remote or unresponsive. Luckily, research shows that using hearing aids can help improve interpersonal relationships — including greater intimacy.

3. Pull the plug on stress and boost your mood. People with untreated hearing loss often feel angry, frustrated, anxious, isolated, and depressed. But research shows that when they use hearing aids, their mental health often rallies. Many regain emotional stability, become more socially engaged, feel a greater sense of safety and independence, and see a general improvement in their overall quality of life.

4. Bolster your self-con� dence. An important perk of using hearing aids can be enhanced emotional well-being. Research shows that when people with hearing loss use hearing aids, many feel more in control of their lives and less self-critical. One Better Hearing Institute (BHI) study found that the majority of people with mild and severe hearing loss felt better about themselves and life overall as a result of using hearing aids.

5. Improve cognitive functioning. Studies out of Johns Hopkins linked hearing loss with accelerated cognitive decline in older adults and found that seniors with hearing loss are signi� cantly more likely to develop dementia over time. BHI studies found that many people with hearing loss report improvements in their cognitive skills with the use of hearing aids.

So go ahead. Revitalize your life. Do something about your hearing. It just may help you feel forever young.

For more information — and to take a free, quick and con� dential online hearing check to determine if you need a comprehensive hearing test by a hearing care professional — visit www.BetterHearing.org.—Brandpoint

Call 425-329-8258 today to schedule your personal visit and complimentary meal!

Offering certainty in uncertain times.

©2014 HARVEST MANAGEMENT SUB LLC 22766

The Garden ClubIndependent Retirement Living13350 SE 26th Street, Bellevue, WA 98005425-329-8258 | the-gardenclub.com

At Holiday Retirement, our warm and friendly staff understand that your freedom to make choices is important to you. That’s why we offer a host of all-inclusive amenities and services that you can choose from, including:

Aging in place is easier with Holiday, residents are welcome to obtain health care services from any provider of their choice.* And with our Rate Lock Program, a one-time fee ensures that your base rent will never increase as long as you live with us. You’ll appreciate the savings and convenience the rate lock provides.**

Call today and learn more about the choices you have at Holiday Retirement. You’ll be glad you did.

*Holiday Retirement is not affiliated with any health care provider. Residents are welcome to obtain services from any provider of their choice. **To be eligible you must (a) lease a unit at a participating Holiday community and execute all relevant documentation related to the rate lock, (b) pay your first month’s rent, the Community Fee and Rate Lock Fee; and (c) move into the leased unit. See the Executive Director for complete details. Cannot be combined with other offers.

• Threechef-preparedmealsaday• Fullcalendarofactivities&events• 24/7live-inmanagers• Housekeepingandlinenservice

• Scheduledtransportation• Nolongtermcommitments• Petswarmlywelcomed• Andmuchmore!

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Senior Housing Guide - 2014-2015

Documents

Transcript of Senior Housing Guide - 2014-2015