Boomers & Beyond November 2017
Westchester County
Legal advice for Medicaid & Asset-Protection planning. Call (914) 816-2900 today! See page 14
Premier Residences of Yonkers: Choose your best senior life p9
Wartburg Partners with Westchester Community College for an Enhanced Clinical Care Program p4
Waveny Offers Caregiver Relief Solutions p7 Comfort Keepers— In-Home Care for Seniors with Dementia p13
Seven facts you need to know about National Alzheimer’s Awareness Month p12
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November, 2017
Boomers & Beyond - Westchester
Our Specialty Pro ograms a help yo ou manage a wide range of con nditions at home.
• • • e • • • •
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Call us 24/7 at 1-888-FOR-VNSW www.vns.org
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Westcheste s r Care at HOME An affiliate of VNS Westchester ste
ATTORNEYS AT LAW Many Years of Experience Protecting the Legal Interests of the Elderly & Special Needs Populations
Advising Families about:
• • • • • • • • •
Medicaid Asset Protection Planning Estate Planning & Administration Special Needs Home Care Long Term Care Health Care Proxies Powers of Attorney Guardianships
See more information on page 14
Client Testimonials
I reached out to you during the most stressful time of life for both my loved ones and myself - horror had occurred to my dear loving mother. My mom had fractured her hip and due to her frail health and advanced age required risky hip replacement surgery. Many issues legal and otherwise arose which I could not personally resolve. You not only resolved each and every one, but you continue to do so now, over 4 years later.
You always display extreme sincerity, compassion and friendship, using your vast experience and confidence in your ability, to continually bring satisfaction, positive results and a tremendous sense of relief and comfort to my loved ones and myself.
Westchester Financial Center 50 Main Street, Suite #1000 White Plains, NY 10606 Email: Info@ejrosenlaw.com
Tel: (914) 816-2900 www.ejrosenlaw.com
You have gone out of your way to visit Mom on multiple occasions in her Nursing house and we love you for it. As an attorney, friend, and a great man, I could not possibly hope to know anyone more phenomenal. The three greatest men I have ever known are my dear departed father, my dear departed father-in-law and Ely Rosenzveig. – Jeff D.
I hired Ely to assist with my parents estate planning and it was a wise decision. He is a true expert in navigating through complex elder care law and procedures. His guidance was invaluable and his communication excellent. I would strongly recommend his services. – Tom C.
Attorney advertising • Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome
ELDER LAW • TRUSTS & ESTATES • TAX ADVOCACY • MEDIATION • EMPLOYMENT LAW
Boomers & Beyond - Westchester
Wartburg partners with Westchester Community College for an Enhanced Clinical Care Professional Development Program for Home Health Aides PAGE 4
November, 2017
Wartburg, a premier senior residential and healthcare facility in lower Westchester, has partnered with Westchester Community College (WCC) to provide workforce development to Wartburg staff and management. In support of Wartburg’s mission to provide comprehensive services to those entrusted to their care, WCC’s Professional Development Center developed an enhanced clinical care program to increase the skills of the Home Health Aides of Wartburg Care At Home’s Home Care Agency. Based on the needs of seniors today and Wartburg’s commitment to stay innovative in clinical care, a select group of 12 Wartburg Home Health Aides received enhanced clinical care training focused on critical patient areas such as specialized care for diabetes and memory care including Alzheimer’s and dementia. “These enhanced clinical care programs enabled us to advance the skill and knowledge of our Home Health Aides as we continue to deliver outstanding care to all those in need in the community,” said Dorothea Bell, Executive Vice President of Human Resources at Wartburg. She went on to say, “Creating access to quality education is often a challenge, particularly for this underserved population of clinical care employees. Wartburg considers itself to be very fortunate to have been able to partner with WCC in bringing this opportunity forward.” “Our goal is to support the professional and workforce development needs of our business community throughout Westchester and Putnam Counties,” stated Jim Irvine, Director, Corporate Education and Continuing Professional Education for WCC’s Professional Development Center. “We’re excited to be working with Wartburg to help them proactively manage their workforce development needs and respond to the changes in patient needs and demographics.” The program participants recently graduated with Certificates of Completion from Westchester Community College. Wartburg’s Care At Home clients will benefit from the enhanced clinical skills of Wartburg’s Home Health Aides with partnerships and programs of this type continuing to be made available to the community.
About Wartburg Wartburg, located in Westchester County, NY, offers integrated, comprehensive senior care services for all stages of life. Unlike conventional retirement communities, they provide a wide range of services to both residents living on campus and people in their own homes. From independent, assisted living and award-winning nursing home care to inpatient/outpatient rehabilitation, home care and adult day care services, their continuing care approach has earned them a trusted reputation in Westchester. They also provide caregiver support every at every stage, with an array of options to find the level of care considers the whole family. Most recently, Wartburg received the 2016 Eli Pick Facility Leadership Award from the American College of Health Care Administrators and the 2015 Legacy Award from the Westchester County Chapter of the Links. In addition, Wartburg was named one of the “Best Nursing Homes in New York State”, by U.S. News & World Report for the seventh consecutive year in 2017. For more information please visit, www.wartburg.org
Wartburg’s Licensed Home Care Agency Providing temporary or ongoing assistance – on a daily or live-in basis – serving Westchester and the Bronx • • • •
Personal care/dressing, meal prep, housekeeping Individualized care plan Physical/occupational/speech therapy Companion services to medical appointments, shopping, recreation • Specialized dementia and diabetes care • Caregiver respite
We are hiring experienced Home Health Aides. Call us to find out more.
Call our care advisors to find out how we can help: 914-513-5656 or visit wartburg.org
INDEPENDENT LIVING ❘ ASSISTED LIVING ❘ ALZHEIMER’S/DEMENTIA CARE ❘ NURSING HOME ADULT DAY CARE ❘ HOME CARE ❘ INPATIENT REHABILITATION ❘ OUTPATIENT REHABILITATION HOSPICE CARE ❘ CAREGIVER SUPPORT ❘ SPIRITUAL CARE
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November, 2017
Boomers & Beyond - Westchester
Advertiser’s Index Brightview Tarrytown...............................................................................17 Caring Hearts and Hands LLC.................................................................10 Caring Professionals, Inc.........................................................................15 Dr. Robert A. Cohen Audiologist...............................................................13 ColumbiaDoctors..................................................................................19 Comfort Keepers...................................................................................13 Ely J. Rosenzveig & Associates, PC...................................................3,14 Five Star Premier Residence of Yonkers..................................................9 The Fountains at Rivervue....................................................................11 Victoria Home......................................................................................8 VNA of Hudson Valley...........................................................................20 VNS Westchester........................................................................................2 The Wartburg.......................................................................................5
Waveny Lifecare Network..................................................................................7
Boomers
845-534-7500 • (fax) 845-534-0055 Info@HealthcareNewspaper.com
Westchester County
& Beyond
PUBLISHER
Joseph P. Belsito Joe@belsito.com
••• GENERAL MANAGER
Nancy Sorbella
Our View
By Nancy Sorbella
GENERAL MANAGER
This month we are moved by all human strength and kindness we have witnessed in the wake of the recent global tragedies. Strangers helping neighbors, communities rebuilding and supporting one another. This is particularly powerful as we enter November and focus on being thankful for all that we have, most significantly health and wellness. We continue to share inspiring stories meant to encourage and as a way to view our daily life through a new lens. In November, we are advocating for the sharing of the human spirit through volunteering, reaching out to neighbors and being aware of what truly matters. Here at Boomers & Beyond we will be connecting with residents of local retirement communities, making new friends and acquaintances and even inviting them to break bread with us during the holidays. We are also excited to be part of the upcoming Arthritis Foundation Jingle Bell Run at Purchase College in December. This festive event for all ages and abilities focuses on facing down the physical challenges of arthritis through education and regular activity. We will be there with bells on and hope you can join us! As we say every month, thank you, to our readers and supporters, for being part of the journey to living your healthiest life here in Westchester County! Get in touch with us at info@healthcarenewspaper.com.
Nancy@healthcarenewsmagazine.com
••• MARKETING DIRECTOR
Gregory W. Buff
Greg@belsito.com
••• MARKETING CONSULTANT
Anthony Mairo
Anthony@healthcarenewsmagazine.com
••• MANAGING EDITOR
Cathryn Burak
Cathy@healthcarenewsmagazine.com
••• SENIOR SALES CONSULTANT
Maureen Rafferty Linell MRLinell@charter.net
••• CIRCULATION
Michelle Belsito
Michelle@healthcarenewsmagazine.com
Corporate Information
Healthcare News - Westchester, New York edition - Vol. 10 No. 11- is published monthly, 12 times a year by Belsito Communications, Inc., 1 Ardmore Street, New Windsor, NY 12553. Postage Paid at New Windsor, NY and additional mailing offices. Postmaster: Send address changes to Healthcare Newspaper, 1 Ardmore Street, New Windsor, NY, 12553. No financial responsibility is assumed by this newspaper to publish a display, classified, or legal ad or for typographical errors except of reprinting that part of the ad which was omitted or in error. Omissions or errors must be brought to the attention of the newspaper during the same month of publication.
Next Month Retirement Communities Finding the best for your loved ones Home Care for the Holiday Making your holiday safe and special Financial Planning Managing your retirement Diabetes Latest medical breakthroughs
Motorcycle Mania at Waveny PAGE 8
November, 2017
Boomers & Beyond - Westchester
On Monday, September 25, Waveny LifeCare Network held a special “Motorcycle Mania” day for all assisted living residents at The Village at Waveny and participants in Waveny’s Adult Day Program. Motorcyclists among Waveny’s staff rode their bikes into work for the day, and put them on display in The Village’s Garden for all to see, touch, learn about and explore. In addition to a variety of motorcycle themed programs and activities, special guest, Ed Train, shared photos and stories from his recent cross-country motorcycle tour. For more information about Waveny’s Adult Day Program, which offers flexible days and free local door-to-door transportation throughout most of lower Fairfield County, call 203.594.5429 or visit waveny.org.
photos provided
Boomers & Beyond - Westchester
Premier Residences of Yonkers: Choose your best senior life.
At Five Star Premier Residences of Yonkers, seniors enjoy a lifestyle of choice. On any given day, residents can choose to participate in a multitude of activities including daily news discussions, classes in painting, quilting and jewelry making. Love to shop? Grab a seat on the bus for the weekly trips to The Christmas Tree Store, Ridgehill Shopping Center or Trader Joe’s. Like to exercise? Limber up at the tai chi class where you can learn movement for health and self-defense. There is more “choice” when it comes to dining, too. The “MyChoice Dining Program” at Premier Residences of Yonkers allows residents to grab a meal where and when they want. The newly renovated Hudson View Café, for instance, provides a casual, quick service option for breakfast and lunch. It’s become a local “hang out” for residents during the day to meet and socialize while enjoying coffee, light snacks, salads, fresh baked cookies and more. The beautifully appointed Riverdale dining room features a more classic dining option. Here residents and their guests
dine on a four-course menu, including house-made desserts. Behind the scenes, the community’s gourmet chefs are continually working to provide flavorful options so that there is always something for everyone to savor and enjoy. Residents choosing Premier Residences of Yonkers also appreciate a gated community with landscaped grounds that feature walking paths lined with beautiful flowers and benches for reading. With New York City just a short trip away, there is plenty of opportunity to take in some of the best shopping, theater and restaurants in the world. All the comforts of home are available here along with a compassionate staff who are on hand to cater to every need. To make your choice easier, Premier Residences of Yonkers is currently offering Independent Living apartments starting at just $3,222. This is a limited time offer. Plus, new residents are invited to bring along a spouse or friend to live with them absolutely free. He or she will receive all the same dining privileges, and social and recreational amenities as the lessee.
OUR VIEWS ON SENIOR LIVING
From worry-free apartment living to social events and recreational activities, Premier Residences of Yonkers has it all. Now is the time to visit and learn more about the community’s move-in special. Call today to schedule a tour: (914) 4232200, and ask for the sales department. Visit www.fivestarpremier-yonkers.com for more information. About Five Star Premier Residences of Yonkers Five Star Quality Care, Inc., a national healthcare and senior living provider headquartered in Newton, Massachusetts,
I
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November, 2017
provided
proudly offers the highest quality service and care with the warmth and hospitality of home. The Assisted Living Federation of America (ALFA) has awarded Five Star Senior Living many of its prestigious Best of the Best Awards, a national recognition reserved for the nation's most innovative and effective senior living programs. Five Star Premier Residences of Yonkers is located at 537 Riverdale Avenue, Yonkers, NY 10705. For more information, visit www.fivestarpremier-yonkers.com; (914) 423-2200. Or, visit www.fivestarseniorliving.com
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NOW $3,222/mo onth and 2nd person ST TAYS FREE for the life of the lease!* A F I V E S TA R IN D EP EN D EN T, A S S I S T E D L I V ING A N D M E M O R Y C AR E C O M M U NI T Y
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November, 2017
Boomers & Beyond - Westchester
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Lifeline
Monthly Tips for Seniors
5 Autumn Safety Tips for Seniors
As autumn leaves start to fall and the air turns crisp, older adults face seasonal challenges to their health. The cold and flu season is just getting started, and there are other coldweather threats to a senior’s health and safety that can be minimized by following a few basic guidelines.
Here are five tips for seniors to follow to stay healthy and safe during the colder seasons.
1. Get the flu vaccine. Seniors are especially at risk for complications from the flu, such as pneumonia, bronchitis and ear infections. The flu can also make any chronic health problems worse. There are two types of flu shots specially designed for seniors. Ask your health care provider which one would be best for you.
2. Be wary of tripping hazards. Make sure leaves are cleared from sidewalks and driveways on your property and that all walkways are illuminated to reduce your chances of a fall. Stretch before going outside to warm up stiff muscles.
3. Stay warm. As you get older, your risk of suffering hypothermia goes up. Dress warmly and wear a hat when going outside. Keep your indoor temperature at a minimum of 68 degrees Fahrenheit. If you need help paying your heating bills, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services may be able to help. The Eldercare Locator is a tool from the U.S. government to help connect you with agencies that can help. 4. Protect your skin. Indoor air becomes arid thanks to household heating systems. With age, our skin gets thinner and more prone to dryness and tears that can lead to infections. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids and eating soup. Using a humidifier indoors can go a long way toward putting some much-needed moisture back into the air. Also, make sure to help keep your skin from drying out with lotion or cream.
5. Eliminate fire risks. Check that electrical appliances like electrical blankets are in good condition without fraying cords. Space heaters are common sources of fires. Make sure they’re placed far away from flammable surfaces. Autumn is an excellent time to check the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Also, be sure to have working fire extinguishers in the kitchen and near any fireplaces. While the cold weather makes us want to go inside, make sure to reach out to friends and family to stay connected. Enjoy the beautiful fall season as you prepare for the upcoming winter. With a little planning and care, you can minimize your chances of encountering any risks to your health or safety.
Source: medicalalertsystemreviews.net
Connect the dots…
Funding available for eligible seniors for home repairs
Low-income seniors may be eligible for free repairs to make their homes more energy efficient – and thereby save on their utility bills – through the Weatherization Referral Assistance Program (WRAP).
The funds are earmarked for repairs to reduce the energy needed to heat a home and provide hot water. The repairs are made by a reputable contractor; a needs assessment and energy audit will determine how much work will be done.
To qualify for WRAP funding, a person must be 60 or older. They must either own their own home or have a landlord who agrees to pay 25 percent of the cost. Repairs are only made to single-family homes or a senior’s principal residence.
For more information, contact the Westchester County’s Department of Senior Programs and Services at (914) 813-6300.
CARING HEARTS AND HANDS LLC Because We Understand Home Is Where The Heart Is. Caring Hearts and Hands LLC is a dependable non-medical provider of affordable care, services and helpful support to Seniors. Companion Care Personal Care Daily/Weekly Visits 24/7 Nursing Home Care Assisted Living Care Respite Care Lite Meal Prep Errands Bill Prep Transportation and more We Can Provide; Caregivers, HHA’s, LPN’s
Free Consultations
914-962-3002
CARINGHEARTSANDHANDSLLC.COM
Boomers & Beyond - Westchester
November, 2017
PAGE 11
out & about
Fountains at RiverVue’s Paint Nite, a fundraiser supporting the Alzheimer’s Association!
photos by Nancy Sorbella
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November, 2017
Boomers & Beyond - Westchester
Seven facts you need to know about National Alzheimer’s Awareness Month
As you may have read elsewhere, November is National Alzheimer’s Awareness Month. But surely, the public is already well aware of this horrible disease. After all, Alzheimer’s has directly affected approximately 1 in every 2 families and the others must have certainly noted its prominent coverage in the news. We don’t really need more awareness, right? Wrong. Some of the information below may surprise you. That is to say, it is information about which you are not presently aware. However, by merely learning the seven facts below you will be helping to reduce the Alzheimer’s problem. That’s right…making you aware of this information and encouraging you to share it with your social networks will facilitate a more informed and more effective approach to combating the threat we face from this disease. First, here are a few facts and figures that you may already know. Alzheimer’s currently affects more than 5 million Americans and that number is likely to triple by 2050. It is the sixth leading cause of death in the USA and is climbing steadily in the rankings. Also, Alzheimer’s is the leading cause of dementia and accounts for about 65% of all dementia worldwide. These facts may not be news to you, but they are still quite sobering.
7 Facts You Need To Know
Now, here are some points you may not know but should. It is the following information that hopefully stimulate discussion and promote a better understanding of the disease. With more discourse, we can begin to erode the lingering stigma that currently prevents some people with early symptoms from seeking timely medical attention.
1) We generally detect Alzheimer’s at the end-stage of the disease. On average, Alzheimer’s follows a 14-year course from the onset of the first symptoms until death. There is some variability across patients but 14 years is pretty typical. The more surprising news is that, on average, we diagnose Alzheimer’s in years 8-10 of that disease course. This means that for most patients, symptoms go undiagnosed and untreated for at least seven years, during which time the lesions spread through the brain and cause irreparable damage. Please be aware that we diagnose Alzheimer’s disease far too late to optimize the effects of currently available treatments.
2) Memory loss is NOT a part of normal aging. The point about end-stage detection raises an obvious question about “why” we diagnose this disease so late. There are many contributing factors but most of them can be reduced through awareness and education. Some patients resist medical attention in the early stages because they fear a stigmatizing label or because they are misinformed to believe that Alzheimer’s cannot be treated. Many people, including a startling number of physicians, incorrectly believe that memory loss is a normal part of aging. Improving the timeliness of diagnoses for Alzheimer’s is, in many ways, a problem that can be addressed through awareness and education. Please be aware that memory loss is not a part of normal aging and, regardless of the cause of the memory loss, timely medical intervention is best.
3) Current Alzheimer’s drugs are more effective than you think. Our widespread practice of late detection has many negative consequences. For example, one of the reasons that current treatments are often deemed ineffective is because they are routinely prescribed for patients with end-stage pathology
who already have massive brain damage. With earlier intervention, treatment can be administered to patients with healthier brains, many of whom will respond more vigorously to the recommended therapy. Yes, we need better treatments, but a great start would be to intervene earlier with the treatments we already have. Please be aware that currently approved treatments may be more effective than some headlines indicate.
4) Alzheimer’s disease can be treated. Another treatment related concept about which everyone should be aware is this. Preventing or slowing further brain damage is preferable to letting the damage spread without constraint. Yet, many physicians, patients, and caregivers conclude that any treatment short of a cure is not worthwhile. While today it is true that we have no cure for Alzheimer’s, that does not mean there is no treatment. With a good diet, physical exercise, social engagement, and certain drugs, many patients (especially those detected at an early stage) can meaningfully alter the course of Alzheimer’s and preserve their quality of life. Please be aware that “we have no cure” does not mean “there is no treatment”. continued on next page
Seven facts you need to know about National Alzheimer’s Awareness Month
continued from previous page
5) The Alzheimer’s drug pipeline is full. Here’s another fact of which you should be aware. Through an intense research effort over the past twenty years, scientists have gained a lot of insight about Alzheimer’s disease mechanisms and about other factors that increase the risk for the disease. Much has been learned and some very promising drugs, based on sound theoretical approaches, are in FDA clinical trials right now. While much of the disease remains shrouded in mystery and we may still be a long way from better treatments, it is possible that an effective agent is already in the pipeline. Please be aware that, although we don’t know when, better treatments for Alzheimer’s are certainly on the way. 6) Taking good care of your heart will help your brain stay healthy. Know this; the health of your brain is very closely tied to the health of your body, particularly your heart. Researchers have shown conclusively that high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and obesity all confer greater risk for cognitive decline.
Boomers & Beyond - Westchester
November, 2017
The mechanisms that keep oxygen-rich blood flowing through your body play a key role in maintaining a healthy brain. Everyone should be aware about the close association between vascular health and cognitive health. Please be aware that maintaining good vascular health will help you age with cognitive vitality.
7) Managing risk factors may delay or prevent cognitive problems later in life. There are well-identified risk factors for Alzheimer’s disease that are within our power to manage. These include diabetes, head injuries, smoking, poor diet, lethargy, and isolation. With greater awareness of these facts, we can imagine a world where diabetics take more care to control their blood sugar, where helmets are more prevalent in recreational activities that are likely to cause head trauma, where people smoke less and eat more fruits and vegetables, and where everyone makes a better effort to exercise and to stay socially engaged on a regular basis. While these facts may not be well known, they are all well proven. Galvanizing an effort to publicize them is one purpose of National Alzheimer’s Awareness Month. Please be aware that many risk factors for Alzheimer’s can be actively managed to reduce the likelihood of cognitive decline.
PAGE 13
So why bother with Alzheimer’s awareness? Because it is a terrible disease poised to ravage our aging society and the lack of education and awareness has lead to a stigma that prevents a more proactive approach to early intervention. The result is that we diagnose it too late, which hampers the efficacy of available treatments. A more educated public could manage risk factors to minimize the likelihood of Alzheimer’s, could monitor personal cognitive health with greater vigilance, and could seek medical attention at the earliest sign of decline. Physicians could then diagnose problems earlier and prescribe appropriate treatment including diet, exercise, and drugs to slow disease progression as much as possible. In the end, we could have fewer cases, more effective treatment, slower progression, higher quality of life, and lower healthcare costs. The social, emotional, and fiscal benefits of awareness and education in this area are too large to quantify. By reading this article, you have increased your understanding of the problem and raised your awareness about what can be done. That is a great step in the right direction but you can do one thing more. You can help to spread this message. In the spirit of National Alzheimer’s Awareness Month, please share this article with your friends to promote more widespread awareness.
Source:Caring.com
Comfort Keepers
520 White Plains Rd Suite 500 Tarrytown, NY 10591
ANNOUNCEMENT Dr. Robert A. Cohen (Audiologist), is pleased to announce the RE-OPENING of his practice in AUDIOLOGY and HEARING AID Services, located at 161 South Central Avenue in Hartsdale, N.Y. Dr Cohen is the former Owner/Director of Sprain Brook Audiology, Connect Hearing (Director) and Director of AUDIOLOGY at ENT & Allergy Services, bringing over 35 years of professional services to this new space, housed within CENTRAL EYES. Whether you are a former patient of Dr. Cohen’s or looking to become a new patient, Dr. Cohen offers high end hearings aids at substantial discounts; affordable, quality hearing aids delivered by an experienced licensed professional. Call us at 914-649-0943 for your appointment today.
(914) 467-5220
Dementia Care
For seniors with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia, living at home in a familiar environment can be helpful because it surrounds them with memory cues that can reduce confusion and enhance mental engagement. In-home care from our specially trained caregivers give your family the care and support you need:
• Education for your family to help you better understand dementia and what you can do for your loved one • Structured activities geared to your loved one’s interests and capabilities that minimize dementia symptoms • Home modification guidance • Connection to medical professionals, support groups, and other resources • In-home medical alert systems and motion detectors
WhitePlains-1017.ComfortKeepers.com
ATTORNEYS AT LAW Many Years of Experience Protecting the Legal Interests of the Elderly & Special Needs Populations
Why should I spend money hiring attorneys to do asset protection planning for me and my loved ones?
Currently, the monthly cost for nursing home care in New York ranges between $10,000-$15,000, and properly certified home health attendants (nurse aides) can cost as much or more for round- the-clock home care. Statistically, it is likely that most people will need either or both of these care options as they grow older. It is critical that you plan appropriately to best minimize the strain that elder care costs may have on your estate, and to help put you in the best position possible to qualify for benefits that are largely covered by the government, under Medicare or Medicaid.
Our firm has attorneys with extensive experience in developing tax-effective action plans for our clients that help protect their assets from government imposition. We have also been very successful in negotiating the complex bureaucratic minefield in which Medicaid is now mired. We have achieved remarkable results for our clients on a host of Medicaid related issues, from obtaining Medicaid approvals for coverage of home care and institutional care benefits, to very accommodative resolutions of Medicaid spousal recovery claims, where the office of Medicaid aggressively pursues the non-institutionalized (i.e., or “community”) spouse for Medicaid benefits provided.
Why should I have a lawyer prepare my will?
If you die without a Will, the law, not you, determines how your assets are divided and to whom they are given. A poorly drafted Will may result in a sizeable chunk of your assets not ending up where you want them to go. We are an experienced law firm that can expertly craft your will to address your long-term care, tax, estate planning, and asset protection planning issues. It is in your best interest that planning be done properly so as to minimize the tax burden on your estate.
Our experience and skill in the fields of Trusts, Wills, and Estates enables our firm to uniquely tailor estate planning to your individual needs. We will review your entire estate and draft a personalized plan that will best direct the disposition of your assets after death, whether through your Will, or by means of testamentary substitutes (trusts, joint-asset ownership with right of survivorship, or by beneficiary designation in life insurance policies, annuities, or individual retirement accounts).
My father is having difficulty caring for himself. I am afraid he will no longer be able to live on his own. I am worried about finding the money to pay for his care, whether he stays at home or moves to an assisted living facility or nursing home. What do I do?
Westchester Financial Center 50 Main Street, Suite #1000 White Plains, NY 10606 Email: Info@ejrosenlaw.com
Tel: (914) 816-2900 www.ejrosenlaw.com
Your concerns are certainly daunting, and heart-rending. Our firm offers you a caring hand, an open ear, and uncompromising professional competence, and commitment. We will help find for you solutions that best suit your needs, using the latest tax, trust, and other asset protection strategies available under the law. The law firm of Ely J. Rosenzveig & Associates, P.C. practices in all aspects of elder law, including trust and estate planning, administration, and litigation, tax counsel, asset protection and special needs planning, Medicaid, Medicare, and Social Security disability benefits, guardianships, long term care planning, spousal recovery claims, and Medicaid lien resolutions.
Attorney advertising • Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome
ELDER LAW • TRUSTS & ESTATES • TAX ADVOCACY • MEDIATION • EMPLOYMENT LAW
Why Size matters when choosing the right Memory Care Community Boomers & Beyond - Westchester
November, 2017
PAGE 15
For example, small settings sometimes have higher staff to resident ratios. In some areas, smaller residential homes may be more affordable and locally-owned and operated, a fact which may be appealing to you and your loved one. Whereas, larger communities may be part of a corporation and more set in their fees.There are different methods senior living communities use to determine rate increases. Larger assisted living communities may appeal to family members who long to belong to a bigger entity, as opposed to a more insular community.
If you are shopping for memory care for your loved one, the experience can seem daunting and overwhelming; and the task may appear insurmountable. On top of researching and discovering different senior housing care and memory care options, you will find that each community you visit has a variety of characteristics that are unique to its environment. The community's representative may explain these distinguishing qualities and describe the memory care's individuality, including all the ways it is different, as well as how it specializes in the memory care arena.
Is bigger really better? While touring, you may notice that some memory care communities are small and others are large. One size does not fit all, and there are several considerations to take into account. First, it's important to think about your loved one and what his or her daily life has been like, not only recently, but also in the past. For example, if your mom struggled financially at some point in her life, moving into a larger community that has the vibe of a hotel, cruise ship, or an opulent apartment could increase her anxiety. After the move-in, she may end up feeling that she cannot afford to live there, and may become anxious about how she is going to pay for everything. This situation can also intensify a loved one's feelings of "wanting to go home." Second, tailoring a memory care community choice to your loved one's needs includes addressing specific individual lifestyle traits. For example, if your husband prepared or mostly ate chef-like prepared meals, then he may experience anxiety over not having access to chef prepared meals. Did your dad spend a great deal of time traveling? If so, a larger community may feel more like home to him. Other things to take into consideration include your loved one's journey with dementia and reaction to crowds, size of places, and his or her daily activity level. It's important to thoroughly review the overall environment and amenities the communities offer that may appeal to your loved one. Keep in mind that some of the small residential-type memory care homes may or may not be licensed. A difference in staffing ratios may be present in a more residential setting versus a larger community. Source: www.agingcare.com
Size matters, so does communication Again, it's ultimately up to you to decide on the type of community that best fits your loved one's personality and lifestyle. However, regardless of whether a community is small or large, families must note the interaction of the residents living there, and the communication with the professional staff members to gain valuable feedback. Through your research and discovery journey, the ability to have open discussions with the chosen community will be one of the most—if not the most—important aspect, to find while touring. Before you move your loved one in, some simple ways to gauge how communication within the community will occur includes calling and scheduling a tour, coming back for a tour unannounced and calling on more than one occasion to ask questions. By doing this, you will learn how the staff responds to you and how well you communicate with each other.
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November, 2017
Boomers & Beyond - Westchester
7 Thanksgiving activities for seniors in Assisted Living
The holiday season is upon us and brings with it numerous opportunities for turning typical days at your community into seasonal experiences. Treat November as a month-long Thanksgiving celebration with regular themed activities scattered throughout. The seniors in your assisted living home can get involved by helping decorate and plan for the big day, and everyone will have plenty of incentive to think about all that’s been good in their lives past and present.
1. Set up a gratitude tree. The whole point of Thanksgiving is to consider and share what you’re most thankful for. You can start that part of the celebration early, by setting up a tree in one of your community’s shared spaces that residents can hang notes on that say what they’re thankful about. On Thanksgiving Day, you can pull the notes down and share them with the whole group.
2. Make gourd turkeys. Combine two of the most popular symbols of fall with these Thanksgiving gourd turkeys that can be used to decorate your lobby and dining area. They can add some color and cuteness to the space, and the template provided makes getting the craft just right easy for any seniors that choose to participate.
3. Have a family recipe competition. Everyone’s got their own family traditions and, while there’s probably some overlap in what your residents’ families have typically made for Thanksgiving, there are probably some unique family recipes that bring back fond memories for the individuals in the home. Let everyone submit their favorites and share them with the group to take a vote. The items that win will get made for the Thanksgiving feast on the big day.
4. Make a felted acorn garland. Colorful felted acorns can get you in the autumn spirit (especially if you stick with traditional fall colors like brown, orange, and yellow) and give your seniors something productive to work on for an afternoon. If you string them together into a garland, you have a handy decoration for any room in the assisted living facility. 5. Write thank you letters. Musing on what you’re thankful for is one thing, letting the people in your life that have helped make it better know how much they mean to you is another. You could do this anytime in November, but it might have the most impact if you time it so the letters will likely arrive on or around Thanksgiving Day. You can add a craft component to the letter writing by encouraging your residents to make some Thanksgiving-themed homemade stationary.
6. Make Thanksgiving place cards. In preparation for the big day, invite your craft-inclined residents to help you make some adorable turkey placecards for everyone who will be attending the Thanksgiving meal. These can be made from a few simple materials, including apples, almonds, and peanuts (be warned, you may be tempted to do some healthy snacking while working).
7. Have a Thanksgiving dinner celebration. Everything else on the list has been leading up to this. Use the crafts your residents have made to decorate the celebration. Prepare the recipes shared and voted on by everyone in the facility. And bring out the gratitude tree to start the discussion of things people are thankful for. Encourage your residents to be as involved and engaged in the proceedings as possible. Invite seniors to help with cooking and setting the room up, and encourage everyone to bring an idea of 3-5 things they’re thankful for to share. There’s no reason that being in an assisted living home should mean you have a Thanksgiving that feels any less celebratory and cozy than those spent with family over the years. By incorporating activities in keeping with the season and encouraging your residents to be involved, you can keep the Source:www.senioradvisor.com beloved tradition alive for them.
Burke Rehabilitation Hospital expands Outpatient Services in Armonk Boomers & Beyond - Westchester
As a leader in physical rehabilitation services for more than 100 years, Burke now offers physical therapy at its newest Outpatient Clinic in Armonk, located next to White Plains Hospital Medical and Wellness Center. The newest addition to the services offered at the Armonk Clinic is massage therapy. For a fee, patients and the general public will be able to receive Swedish, Meditative, Deep Tissue or Reflexology Foot massages. The benefits of massage therapy go far beyond pampering; it has gained recognition for its medical application and physical benefits. The Armonk Outpatient Clinic also offers vestibular therapy, which helps address symptoms of dizziness, vertigo, visual blurring, nausea, imbalance and anxiety as a result of damage to the parts of the inner ear or brain that are part of the vestibular system. “The demand for outpatient therapy services is increasing at a rapid rate. Our Armonk Outpatient Clinic
offers the same excellent standard of care that the main Burke campus offers with more available appointments in a setting closer to home,” explained Burke President and CEO Jeffrey Menkes. “With the growing amount of locations and services available to patients needing outpatient therapy,
November, 2017
provided
it is important to find a site that is convenient and excels in service delivery. Our outpatient clinic in Armonk is located right off highway 684 and Route 22, easily accessible for residents of central and northern Westchester County,” said Burke Vice President, Outpatient Services Steven Tisser, PT, MBA.
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A physician’s diagnosis and prescription is needed to utilize the outpatient services at the clinic. Once accepted as a patient, the first session will be a comprehensive evaluation with a New York State licensed physical therapist, and an individual plan of care will be designed. For more information, please call (914) 597-2165 or visit https://www.burke.org/outpatient/locations/armonk-ny Burke Rehabilitation Hospital is a not-for-profit, acute rehabilitation hospital in White Plains, NY. Founded in 1915 through an endowment from philanthropist John Masterson Burke, it is the only hospital in Westchester County dedicated solely to adult rehabilitation medicine. As of 2016, the hospital is now a part of the Montefiore Health System, Inc. Burke offers both inpatient and outpatient programs for those who have experienced a disabling illness, traumatic injury or surgery. For additional information, please visit burke.org.
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November, 2017
Boomers & Beyond - Westchester
Reading is exercise for your brain: Our November Book List for Boomers The Elder Wisdom Circle Guide for a Meaningful Life: Seniors Across America Offer Advice to the Next Generations Doug Meckelson Answers to all questions, easy and tough, from the members of the Elder Wisdom Circle
Spend Well, Live Rich How to Get What You Want with the Money You Have Michelle Singletary Financial planner and columnist Michelle Singletary offers common sense advice on how to live within your means and grow wealth, including the 7 Money Mantras for a Richer Life Petty: The Biography Warren Zanes Intimate biography of the late Tom Petty by writer and musician Warren Zanes who toured with him.
1000 Record Covers Michael Ochs Record covers are often viewed as artwork and as statements of a generation. Ochs showcases a carefully curated selection of 1000 rock and roll album covers from the 60’s-90’s.
Wine. all the time Marissa A. Ross The comedian and wine critic Marissa A. Ross guides us through the art of picking great wine on any budget.
How to Murder Your Life Cat Marnell A raw and candid memoir of decades of drug addiction by a former Conde Nast beauty editor.
Blindsided: The true story of one man’s crusade against a chemical giant for a boy with no eyes James L. Ferraro with Laura Morton The true story of the legendary 1996 case Castillo v. DuPont that brought justice to the family of a boy born without eyes after his mother’s exposure to a chemical fungicide. Food in Vogue Vogue Editors Stunning photos of food from the pages of Vogue Magazine.
photos provided
Boomers & Beyond - Westchester
November, 2017
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The Viisiting Nurse Association of Hudson Va alley fam mily of organizations - provid ding home health services since e 1898.
VNAHV delivers the best quality professional in-home nursing and rehabilitative services to residents of Westchester and P t Putnam C Countie ties.
Ourr carefully screened and d New Yo orkk State-licensed aides off offer a wide range of services to o help you u maintain your independence. ndence.
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Corporate Address: 540 White Plains Road, Ste. 300 Tarrytown, NY 10591 Ta
Putnam Addr A ess: 20 Milltow wn Road, Ste. 101 B ewster, NY 10509 Br