Appen Media Group
February Special Section
2 | February 2019 | NorthFulton.com | ForsythHerald.com
Empty Nest• Sponsored Section
Longleaf Communities Brought to you by Kathy Rice Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty Longleaf Communities is the premier luxury homebuilder for active 55+ adults in metro Atlanta. Their spectacular, English Cottage style homes and communities are designed to meet the lifestyle needs Rice and wishes of active seniors while providing low maintenance living. With three convenient locations, Longleaf Communities provides things other Active Adult communities provide: proximity to area attractions and life necessities, low maintenance and ease of living, a lock and go lifestyle and neighborhood amenities. With a Longleaf home, you can have all that plus, the distinguished architecture, attention to detail and superb craftsmanship you’re accustomed to.
Our elegant homes feature airy floor plans with lofty 10-foot ceilings and solid 8-foot doors outfitted with generous millwork throughout. Choose from a variety of custom cabinetry for your designer kitchen and select your preferred finishes for your designer bath. All of our homes feature two main floor bedrooms, each with a full bath and laundry on the
main. The upstairs includes a finished loft, additional full bath and the option to add another bedroom for more livable space to welcome guests. Longleaf currently has 3 communities: Village Green of East Cobb in Marietta (1 opportunity remains), Longleaf Woodstock in Cherokee County (with
Clubhouse and Pool) and Longleaf Battle Park in West Cobb (with Pool & Clubroom). Our thoughtful floor plans and Longleaf’s reputation for superior craftsmanship, are what make Longleaf the luxury builder of active adult communities. www.longleafsouth.com (678) 6974984
Battle Park • East Cobb • Woodstock 678.523.7063
THREE NEW LUXURY 55+ COMMUNITIES
Marketing and Sales by Atlanta FIne Homes Sotheby’s International Realty - 770.442.7300. © All Rights Reserved. Equal Housing Opportunity. Information contained herein is believed to be accurate but is not warranted and is subject to change without notice.
678.523.4872
678.525.0823
Call today for a private tour.
d. 678.697.4984 o. 770.442.7300
LONGLEAFSOUTH.COM
Empty Nest • Sponsored Section
Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma Q&A By Dr. Brent Taylor Premier Dermatology and Mohs Surgery of Atlanta As a Mohs surgeon, my primary job is treating the three most common skin cancers – basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carciDr. Taylor noma, and melanoma. Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is the skin cancer that often causes the most confusion, partially because it shares the name “squamous cell” with other squamous cell cancers that do not arise from the skin. Recently, patients have asked questions about cutaneous (skinderived) SCC, and their questions and answers are worth repeating given how common this cancer is and how many readers are likely either affected by it or have a loved one with cutaneous SCC. Q: Is squamous cell of the skin the same as squamous cell of the lung? A: No, SCC of the skin and SCC of the lung are not directly related. The reason that they share the word “squamous” is because in both locations, these epithelial cells look similar under the microscope. Cells in these locations overlap one another similar to how scales of a fish or shingles on a roof overlap, and “squama” is latin for scale. SCC of the skin and lung differ markedly in terms of what causes cancer (for example, ultraviolet damage vs smoking), how they are treated, and prognosis. Q: Why, then are cells growing in such a similar fashion in the skin and the lungs? A: In both locations, squamous cells come in contact with air, and the overlapping design of squamous cells allows them to decrease evaporative water loss and protect underlying tissue from damage caused by outside air or irritants. In the case of the lungs, the “outside” air happens to be inside our bodies while we breath, but the same principle applies. Squamous cells offer protection and a more limited exchange of “outside” influences with deeper body tissues. Q: Is squamous cell of the skin as serious as squamous cell of the lung? A: In general, no. Because SCC of the skin arises on the skin, we usually notice it when it is not advanced, and patients and dermatologists can typically catch SCC of the skin very early. Approximately 1 million SCCs of the skin are diagnosed each year, and only about
15,000 deaths occur. In contrast, about 25-30% of lung cancers in the US are squamous cell carcinoma. According to cancer.org, there will be about 225,000 new cases of lung cancer in 2019 and about 140,000 deaths. Mohs surgery for squamous cell carcinoma of the skin offers a higher than 99% cure rate for small squamous cell carcinomas. Often, the squamous cell carcinomas of the skin that result in death are either long-neglected and allowed to grow or occur in an immunocompromised patient such as a transplant patient who may have an SCC grow so quickly that it is able to spread before it is eliminated. Q: Are there other treatments besides Mohs surgery for squamous cell of the skin? A: Yes, for a shallow SCC called “squamous cell carcinoma in situ”, patient may often choose between Mohs surgery, a wide excision and even topical creams. Invasive squamous cell carcinoma is often best treated with either surgery or radiation. If an SCC has already spread, a multidisciplinary approach including chemotherapy and/or radiation may be necessary and will require the assistance of an oncologist. If you or a loved one has sun-damaged skin or a history of squamous cell carcinoma (of the skin), consider Premier Dermatology and Mohs Surgery of Atlanta for your skin care needs. Dr. Brent Taylor is a fellowship-trained Mohs surgeon and board certified dermatologist offering state-of-the-art skin cancer treatments and care.
NorthFulton.com | ForsythHerald.com | February 2019 | 3
4 | February 2019 | NorthFulton.com | ForsythHerald.com
Empty Nest• Sponsored Section
Soleil Laurel Canyon named Best 50 Master-Planned Communities Tucked away in the North Georgia foothills of Canton and just a short drive from exciting Atlanta, Soleil Laurel Canyon is more than a beautiful community of maintenance-free, ranch-style homes and breathtaking views. It’s the lifestyle you’ve worked your whole life to enjoy. If you are 55+, we invite you to come experience Soleil’s incomparable array of recreation, culture, and entertainment for yourself. You’ll have no doubt why it was named among the Best 50 Master-Planned Communities in the U.S. by Where to Retire Magazine in 2015. “Clubhouses, fitness centers, social clubs and education classes mean residents get much more than a house at a planned community,” said Karen Northridge, publisher of “Where to Retire.” One of the great pleasures of living at Soleil is that a low-maintenance home gives you the free time to take advantage of all that the community offers or take a trip without concern. The landscaped grounds of Soleil Laurel Canyon are always impeccably maintained, while your HOA dues cover complete lawn maintenance and an irrigation system, in-home security monitoring and maintenance, and even Comcast cable TV. Soleil Laurel Canyon offers a selection of Cottage, Traditional and Craftsman-style single-family homes from the mid $200,000s to $400,000s for adults 55+. Residents live independently in homes that range from 1,500 square feet to almost 3,000 square feet. All of Soleil’s new floor plans include elegant details and are designed for aging-in-place with stepless-entry access and wide doorways. These homes are energy ef-
ficient with HERS ratings above standard. Soleil residents have membership in a 28,000-square-foot clubhouse complete with an arts and crafts room, billiards room, fitness center, gourmet teaching kitchen, indoor heated saline lap pool, and library. Outside the clubhouse, residents have a heated Lagoon-style pool, a community garden and greenhouse,
a 3.5-acre fishing lake and the tennis facility with a full-time USPTA-certified teaching professional. The Fairways of Canton golf course is located just outside Soleil’s gate within Laurel Canyon, and offers challenging golf for a reasonable, daily-fee price. Two Lifestyle Directors maintain a full social calendar of events including wine socials, movie nights, trips to nearby attractions, and Grandkids day.
UP TO $20,000 IN SAVINGS on Select Homes through 2/15/19
Amenity-Rich Resort Living for Active Adults NEW HOMES from the LOW $300s Live the way you feel and continue experiencing all the things that give you pleasure. Just north of Atlanta, Soleil is the place to be. Award-winning resort style 55+ community only minutes from shopping, dining, hospitals, culture and Blue Ridge. Find Your New Home at SoleilLaurelCanyon.com
Popular floor plans still available, but are selling fast.
Call Today for Your Personal Tour 678.710.9258
102 High Mountain Trace Canton, Georgia 30114
©2018 Lifestyles at Laurel Canyon, LLC. Special offers, prices, home designs and other information subject to errors, changes, omissions, deletions, availability, prior sale and withdrawal at any time without notice. Not an offering to CT, NJ or NY residents. Void where prohibited.
Empty Nest • Sponsored Section
The safe way to start and stick with an exercise plan Brought to you by Home Helpers of Alpharetta The new year is always a great time to resolve to start and stick with an exercise plan. For your older loved one, however, it’s important to know how to safely carry it through effectively. There’s a lot to factor in when your older loved one starts a new exercise routine. First, check with the doctor and make sure the exercise plan is acceptable. Then remember to start slowly and ramp up each routine. The key to all of this is to really listen to one’s body. It’s normal to have some muscle soreness at first, but actual pain should not be a part of the process. That old saying about “no pain, no gain” is a fallacy. Make sure activities are safe If your older loved one has joint issues, osteoporosis, balance problems or any other health conditions, then the activities done for exercise should be safe and chosen with those limitations in mind. Talk with their therapist or doctor about what exercises are best. The wrong choices can bring pain or injury. If a particular type of exercise proves to be too taxing, don’t hesitate to switch to something else. Enjoyment should be part of the plan. Once they experience the benefits of exercising regularly, it’s going to be a lot easier to stick with the program.
Weight-bearing exercise is good, high impact might not be Weight-bearing exercises are exercises that cause the body to bear weight in some way. They work against gravity in order to move the body. These exercises strengthen bones and muscles, which is good. High impact exercise, on the other hand, like jogging, can be very jarring to older joints and bones. Avoiding high impact exercises is a way to also avoid injury. It can be very helpful to work with a physical therapist or a personal trainer if your older loved one hasn’t worked out in a really long time. This may also be time to consider the benefits and peace of mind professional in-home care can provide. The companionship and assistance a carefully matched, heart centered Home Helpers caregiver provides can help your older loved one stay safe, healthy and happy as they age in place. Our highly personalized care can help boost self-confidence and connect with their youthful spirit. A Home Helpers caregiver has the skills to assist with all personal care, help around the house, transportation, and provide specialized care for Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, etc. It’s a decision that can make a real difference in their and your life. For a free in-home consultation to help your loved one live life to the fullest in the comfort of their own home, please contact Home Helpers of Alpharetta at (678) 430-8511.
NorthFulton.com | ForsythHerald.com | February 2019 | 5
6 | February 2019 | NorthFulton.com | ForsythHerald.com
Empty Nest• Sponsored Section
An IRS incentive to save for retirement (NAPS) — Tips for claiming the Saver’s Credit: 1. Check your eligibility Depending on your filing status and income level, you may qualify for a nonrefundable credit of up to $1,000 (or $2,000 if filing jointly) on your federal income taxes for that year when you contribute to a 401(k), 403(b), 457(b) or similar retirement plan, or IRA. To be eligible, the maximum Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) for single filers is $31,500 in 2018 and $32,000 in 2019. For the head of a household, the AGI maximum is $47,250 in 2018 and $48,000 in 2019. For those who are married and file a joint return, the AGI maximum is $63,000 in 2018 and $64,000 in 2019. You must be 18 years or older by January 1 and cannot be a full-time student or be claimed as a dependent on another person’s tax return. 2. Save for retirement Save for retirement in your employer’s retirement plan, if offered, or in an IRA. In general, for every dollar you contribute to a qualified retirement plan or IRA (up to the lesser of the limits permitted by an employer-sponsored plan or the IRS), you defer that amount from your current
A survey found that 62 percent of American workers are unaware that the Saver’s Credit exists. overall taxable income on your federal tax returns—and you may also qualify for the Saver’s Credit. After-tax contributions, such as those made to a Roth IRA or Roth 401(k), are also eligible for the credit. You have until April 15, 2019 to make a contribution to an IRA for tax year 2018. 3. File your tax return and claim the credit When you prepare your federal tax returns, you can claim your Saver’s Credit by subtracting this tax credit from your federal income taxes owed. Workers who are eligible to claim the Saver’s Credit are also eligible to take advantage of the IRS Free File program for taxpayers with an AGI of $66,000 or less. Twelve commercial software companies make their tax preparation software available through the Free File program at www.irs.gov/FreeFile. • If you are using tax preparation software, use Form 1040 or Form 1040NR. If your software has an interview process,
be sure to answer questions about the Saver’s Credit, also referred to as the Retirement Savings Contributions Credit and/or Credit for Qualified Retirement Savings Contributions. • If you are preparing your tax returns manually, complete Form 8880, the Credit for Qualified Retirement Savings Contributions, to determine your exact credit rate and amount. Then transfer the amount to Schedule 3 (Form 1040) or Form 1040NR. • If you are using a professional tax preparer, be sure to ask about the Saver’s Credit. • Consider having any refund you receive directly deposited to an IRA to further boost your retirement savings. The 19th Annual Transamerica Retirement Survey found that 62 percent of American workers are unaware that the Saver’s Credit exists. Don’t overlook this important tax credit; it may help you pay less in your current federal income taxes while saving for retirement.
Discover a new class in
Discover new –class in senioraliving exclusive to senior living – exclusive to Village Park — that combines the community character Village Park — thatand combines of a private neighborhood with the community and character the culture and convenience of a of private neighborhood with a modern city center. the culture and convenience Stop by today to see of a what’s modern city center. new in senior living. Stop by today to see what’s new in senior living.
Reimagine what’s next. Reimagine what’s next.
Reimagine what’s next.
VILLAGE PARK ALPHARETTA now showing 12300 Morris Rd.
Alpharetta, GA 30005 VILLAGE PARK 678-740-3499 ALPHARETTA now showing
12300 Morris Rd. Alpharetta, GA 30005 Bungalows 678-740-3499 Cottages Independent Living Assisted Living Bungalows Memory Care
Cottages villageparkseniorliving.com Independent Living Assisted Living Memory Care
Empty Nest • Sponsored Section
NorthFulton.com | ForsythHerald.com | February 2019 | 7
The Memory Center Atlanta The Memory Center Atlanta is the Southeast Region’s most unique, allinclusive, residential memory care community for people living with Alzheimer’s and any other form of dementia. A diagnosis of dementia does not mean that you cannot keep many aspects of your current lifestyle. It simply means you may need assistance maintaining that lifestyle. At The Memory Center Atlanta, we strive to ensure you truly live with us. Daily activities include Music, Dancing, Local Entertainment, Outings, Art Therapy, Pet Therapy, Religious Services and more. Enjoy a drink in the Chattahoochee Tavern, grab a movie in the Fox Theater or enjoy an ice cream cone at the Bull Dog Café. All residents experience socialization and activities and
those who need 24/7 medical care will benefit from the care provided at The Memory Center Atlanta. We are proud to have Dr. Gary Figiel, M.D., a locally and nationally renowned expert in the field of geriatric healthcare, as the Medical Director. Dr. Figiel works with our team of Licensed Practical Nurses and Certified Nursing Assistants to provide 24/7 care within the comfort of your loved one’s new home. Don’t let a crisis determine where your loved one can receive care. Deciding on memory care early enough, will allow your loved one the opportunity to have the best quality of life and that decision is priceless. Schedule a tour of The Memory Center Atlanta and learn more about how our entire team works together to provide a seamless transition
NORTH ATLANTA’S FOOD TOPICS ON PODCAST
for your loved one into their new home. Located at 12050 Findley Rd, Johns Creek, GA 30097, less than ½ mile in
from Medlock Bridge Rd. and directly behind Emory Johns Creek Hospital. Call Today – (770) 476-3678.
Spaghetti Dinner Fundraiser Thursday, March 21st at 5:30 pm
You’re invited... to join us for a delicious dinner to help raise money for the American Parkinson Disease Association. There will be great food, entertainment, and prizes. $12 per adult and $6 for children. Space is limited. Please RSVP to Michelle at 770-476-3678.
WINNER
Go to NorthFulton.com, click on Podcasts and select Lunch Break
2018
Best Of North Atlanta Presented By
12050 Findley Rd., Johns Creek, GA 30097 (Behind Emory Johns Creek Hospital)
8 | February 2019 | NorthFulton.com | ForsythHerald.com
Empty Nest• Sponsored Section
What you need to know about cholesterol lesterol guideline writing committee and chair of the Department of Preventive Medicine at Northwestern University in Chicago. “The latest guidelines strongly encourage patient and doctor to have detailed and personalized discussions about medication.” Ask your doctor about medicines, foods — such as grapefruit or pomegranate—or supplements that may interact with your cholesterol-lowering medication.
(NAPS) — New cholesterol guidelines from the American Heart Association emphasize a personalized approach to preventing and treating high cholesterol and cardiovascular disease. Cholesterol is a waxy substance that your body makes to build cells. Too much can pose a problem. Extra cholesterol comes from foods including meat, poultry, dairy and tropical oils. Cholesterol can slowly build up in your arteries and form a thick, hard deposit that narrows them and makes them less flexible. If a blood clot blocks a narrowed artery, a heart attack or stroke can result. Ask your doctor such questions as: Q. What do cholesterol numbers mean? A. Studies suggest optimal cholesterol levels are about 150 mg/dL and about 100 mg/dL for low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C). Levels in this range are linked to lower rates of heart disease and stroke. There’s no ideal target for LDL-C but “lower is better.” Assessment with a risk calculator helps your doctor determine your personal risk and treatment options. A coronary artery calcium test may also help with your assessment.
Q. How can I lower my risk for heart disease? A. A healthy lifestyle is critical. Also, while statins are still the first choice of medication for lowering cholesterol, new drugs are available for people who have had a heart attack or stroke and are at risk for another. Your doctor will monitor
your progress. Q. How do I know if my medicine is working? A. It may take a few tries to find the right medicine and dose. “Finding the sweet spot for treatment is highly individualized,” said Donald Lloyd-Jones, M.D., a member of the cho-
Q. When and how often should I follow up? A. Have a follow-up visit one to three months after starting cholesterol-lowering medication to check that it’s working, that you’re taking it properly, and to monitor for side effects. The American Heart Association’s Check.Change.Control.Cholesterol initiative, supported by Sanofi and Regeneron, has information and resources for managing cholesterol and other cardiovascular risk factors. Visit www.heart. org/cholesterol for further facts, and www.heart.org/MyCholesterolGuide to download the free guide. It’s a healthy idea to be your own advocate when it comes to managing your cholesterol levels.
Empty Nest • Sponsored Section
NorthFulton.com | ForsythHerald.com | February 2019 | 9
Atlanta Estate Law Center offers families peace of mind Performing the task of estate planning is no small endeavor. In addition to your home and monetary assets, your estate includes your insurance policies, possessions, owned property, bank accounts, retirement, and more. Keeping track of what to do with your stuff can seem like an overwhelming task, but with the help of a knowledgeable estate attorney from the Atlanta Estate Law Center, you can ensure that every detail is carefully organized according to your specifications. Your home, life savings and valuables are at risk which many have worked their entire lives to own. No matter how complex the situation may be, The Atlanta Estate name Law Center is committed to offering families peace of mind knowing they have the dedicated legal assistance they need. That’s why we recommend attending our Free Estate Planning Workshop. At the workshop, you will learn about the essential tools of estate planning such as wills, trusts, and asset protection. You will learn how to avoid common mistakes in estate planning and learn about your options before setting up your first meeting. Lastly, attendees receive a free one-hour consultation. Space is limited. To make your reservation, call 770282-1323
HOW DO I PROTECT MY HOME anD lIfE savIngs? You should be in control over what happens to your assets, now AND in the future. Interested in learning more? We invite you to attend a:
Free estate Planning WorkshoP tuesday, March 12th at 4pm thursday, March 14th at 10am
THE ATLANTA
ESTATE LAW C
E
Free eduC ational WorkshoPs
hilton garden inn Johns Creek
11695 Medlock Bridge Rd., Johns Creek, GA 30097
tuesday, March 26th at 4pm thursday, March 28th at 10am Johns Creek Covenant building ii
11340 Lakefield Dr., Johns Creek, GA 30097
Call 770-282-1323 to reserve Your sPot.
FREE CONSULTATION FOR ATTENDEES
there is no cost or obligation to attend. light refreshments will be served.
N
T
E
R
10 | February 2019 | NorthFulton.com | ForsythHerald.com
Empty Nest• Sponsored Section
Things to get around to By Michelle Wilson, Eldercare Attorney Wilson Legal, PC Whether you’re new to the area or you’ve been here a little while, one of the tasks in your “to do” list is updating your estate planning WILSON documents. What does that mean/involve? It will involve meeting with an attorney to talk about your current power of attorney, healthcare directive and will let see if your documents meet GA requirements. That’s right, every state has their own rules and some are similar and some are really different. If you don’t have estate planning documents or you aren’t sure if your documents will meet GA requirements, call me and set up a time for us to talk. If love to meet you and get you check off something on that “to do” list. It will also make your spouse happy. Wilson Legal, PC 407 East Maple St., #105 Cumming, GA 30040 770-205-7861
Discover a new class in
Discover new –class in senioraliving exclusive to senior living – exclusive to Village Park — that combines the community character Village Park — thatand combines of a private neighborhood with the community and character the culture and convenience of a of private neighborhood with a modern city center. the culture and convenience Stop by today to see of a what’s modern city center. new in senior living. Stop by today to see what’s new in senior living.
Reimagine what’s next. Reimagine what’s next.
Reimagine what’s next.
VILLAGE PARK ALPHARETTA now showing 12300 Morris Rd.
Alpharetta, GA 30005 VILLAGE PARK 678-740-3499 ALPHARETTA now showing
12300 Morris Rd. Alpharetta, GA 30005 Bungalows 678-740-3499 Cottages Independent Living Assisted Living Bungalows Memory Care
Cottages villageparkseniorliving.com Independent Living Assisted Living Memory Care
Empty Nest • Sponsored Section
NorthFulton.com | ForsythHerald.com | February 2019 | 11
12 | February 2019 | NorthFulton.com | ForsythHerald.com
Empty Nest• Sponsored Section