Senior Living GUIDE
October 25,2017
A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE
Sentinel C ottage Grove
Take Time to Organize Spring cleaning is a popular tradition among many Americans, but who wants to be stuck in the house when the weather is finally warming up? Take advantage of winter weather to organize a cluttered closet. It might surprise you that your closet could be a breeding ground for bacteria and mold. Be sure your clothes are sufficiently dry before putting them in a closet. Any level of moisture is an ideal environment for mold to begin growing. You may consider using a small dehumidifier in your closet to reduce the risk of mold forming on your clothes, walls or floor. Donate Extra Clothes Go through your clothes rack, drawers or shoe boxes to see what items you may be holding onto but no longer need. Pull out clothing that isn’t in your regular rotation. Separate them into different piles according to the different weather conditions you experience in your region. You’re looking for clothes you haven’t worn or even noticed for at least six months. Inspect the clothes you plan to donate
for holes or stains. Unusable items should be discarded. Any clothing you feel are in good condition can be donated to a local thrift store. You’ll get a good boost of self-esteem by helping those less fortunate while decluttering your closet. A Thorough Cleaning and Inspection This is a good time to inspect every nook of your closet. Check your walls for signs of mildew or mold. If you discover this type of bacteria, it may be time to call a professional cleaning service. Mold can be dangerous to you and your family. Pull out any furniture or boxes that may have wound up in your closet space. Don’t be surprised to see dust bunnies or old clothing tags once you have everything out. An empty closet can benefit from a good vacuum or mopping job. Wipe down any fixtures that are not removable with a disinfecting cleaner. You
also may consider a fresh layer of paint on the walls to give your closet a new feel. Be sure to choose a paint that is mold resistant.
There have been many technological advancements in the last 30 years, with the introduction of social media being a significant one. Adjusting to these changes is difficult and can be a major social hurdle for seniors. Three Critical Issues Seniors face three major issues when it comes to technology: motor problems, slower learning in the face of faster change, and fear, according to the Harvard Review.
As people age, it can be harder to learn new things — but it doesn’t have to be. There are resources specifically created for and targeted to seniors. Fear can be immobilizing, but it is always OK to ask for help. Check Out Your Local Library Many public libraries offer classes designed to help seniors navigate the great technological divide. From step-by-step instruction on how to use the Internet to how to use digital devices for activities such as video chatting with far away friends and family, your local library has tools and programs in place to help you. Setting Up An Email Account Email is so prevalent these days, people forget that for many, it is still a foreign concept. Not having an email address means missing out on many things beyond keeping up with loved ones.
For example, many coupons and discounts are distributed through email, and many retail stores require an email address to participate in their rewards programs. Find a friend or family member to help you set up an account or visit your public library. Even if the library isn’t hosting a class, most librarians are happy to take the time to help their patrons with these issues. Smart Devices Smart devices are more than phones today and can include a variety of gadgets. Getting familiar with these devices can make life easier, as many of them are focused on conveniences, such as home automation. The Nest Thermostat, for example, learns your preferences and automatically adapts as your life changes. After approximately a week of use, it will learn if you like to turn down the temperature when you sleep and automatically heat back up when you wake. There are other technologies that can enhance your life in the kitchen, bathrooms and other areas of the house. Check in with your local home improvement store to see what they offer that may help update your living space.
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Take time ti organize 2 Get plugged in 2 Dabble in new activities 4 Driving safely 5 Estate planning 101 6-7 Take an art class 7 Cottage Grove Senior Center 9 Volunteer Opportunities 9 Seniors & Gardening 9 Planning for retirement 10 Hobbies to stay healthy 11 Longterm health insurance 12 Escaping the cold 13 Watching out for scams 14 Directory 8-9
Cottage Grove Sentinel 116 N. Sixth Street · P.O. Box 35 · Cottage Grove, OR 97424
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Dabble in new activities New Activities George Eliot once said, “It’s never to late to be what you might have been.” Finding new things to do helps build friendships and keeps “retirement burnout” at bay. A lot of seniors who experience boredom after retiring simply aren’t feeling challenged. Trying new activities and getting out of your comfort zone is a great way to feel better. Go Back to School After the end of one career, it can be the perfect time to learn another! Even if you aren’t interested in starting a business or going back to work, don’t be afraid to step on campus. Seniors are eligible for many scholar-
ships and other financial aid packages. Consider your local community college. Classes are generally much more affordable and allow you to take a variety of courses if you are just looking to learn something new without being on a degree track. Learn a New Sport Learning a new sport is a great avenue to meet new people while tackling a new skill. Bowling, golf and tennis are all great choices, and are sports that commonly have leagues and tournaments specifically for seniors. Want to become more active in a sport you already play? Hire a coach to help you hone your skills and point out your bad
habits. Get Creative According to Today’s Geriatric Medicine, creative art pursuits provide older adults with many benefits, including enhanced cognitive function and reduced feelings of depression and anxiety. In fact, many art forms nurture our overall well-being. Find an art class near you. ARTS By The People and Art Beyond Sight are two organizations that work to bring art programs to seniors. Your local community college also will offer art classes at an introductory level and is a great avenue for finding more advanced classes if you wish to pursue it further.
Benefits to owning a pet after retirement When it comes to owning a pet, there are a number of proven physical, mental and emotional health benefits. This is especially important for seniors, who are at higher risk for depression and isolation, according to the National Institutes of Health. Here are five reasons to open your home and heart to a fury friend. Increased Physical Activity The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advises people 65 years of age or older to get at least 150 minutes of moderate activity per day. Owning a pet helps facilitate this type of activity. This is especially advantageous for seniors, who are more at risk for sedentary behaviors. Walking a dog or playing with a cat provides “built-in” avenues for exercise. Companionship Owning a pet is like having a roommate who loves you unconditionally. You are never alone when you are a pet owner, and studies show that owning a pet significantly reduces feelings of depression and loneliness. Owning a pet also can lower blood pressure and reduce stress. Be Present Pets live in the present, which is a contagious feeling and requires pet owners to live more in the here and now. This is especially important for seniors, for whom “tomorrow” can be a scary or stressful concept for a variety of reasons. More Responsibility Caring for another being helps us more than we realize. For example, having a dog requires us to get out of bed even when we don’t want to. We all want to feel useful and valued, after all. When you own a pet, you are making a promise to be involved in another life. Animals also provide routine, which aids in better sleep, reduced anxiety and increased feelings of purpose. Stay Connected Pets increase socialization. Animals can be an instant icebreaker, whether they are with you or just a topic of conversation. There also are a lot of shared activities for pet owners, including charitable events and community walks. Owning a pet also can spark your interest in improving the community. You might find yourself invested in cleaning up the neighborhood park because you walk by it every day with your dog. Questions to Consider What type of pet is for me? Every type of pet has pros and cons. Dogs require more activ-
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ity outdoors. Rabbits and birds require adequate space. Do your research and make the best decision for your particular situation. What type of breed is for me? Different breeds of an animal can make pet ownership more or less challenging. Be sure to choose a breed that complements your needs, personality and available time. What age of pet should I adopt? Young pets require training and more activity to release their energy. Older pets may require more care. Know yourself and what type of commitment you are willing to take on.
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SOUTH LANE COUNTY FIRE & RESCUE The Only Emergency Medical Transport Service in South Lane County
Community Public Education: • CPR/AED • Heart Attack Recognition • Fall Prevention • Stroke Prevention • Fire Prevention • Fire Extinguishers • Fire-Med Membership Call 541-942-4493 for info. FOR EMERGENCY DIAL 911 Serving South Lane County.
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Driving Safely Winter weather can produce many different obstacles when it comes to getting where you need to go. Icy roads, obstructed windshields and bald tires are just a few things that will make driving more difficult. You can’t predict the weather or ask it to stop snowing if you have somewhere you must be. Chances are you will likely find yourself driving in unfavorable conditions. Learn a few ways to prepare your vehicle and practice safe driving techniques to make winter driving less stressful. Winterize Your Vehicle To drive safely during winter weather, there are specific aspects of your vehicle to focus on to make sure they are in peak condition. The AARP has laid out helpful guidelines in order to get your vehicle in winter weather shape. A few of these items include: • Brakes: If you notice your brakes squeal or seem shaky when you come to a stop, take your vehicle to a local auto shop to give your brake pads and rotors an inspection. • Heat and defrost. A working heating system will keep you safe and comfortable during the cold months. In addition, a defroster will keep you safe by keeping your
windshield clear in case of fogging. • Battery. Don’t get stranded, get a battery inspection. Cold weather is extremely hard on a battery that’s not in working order. Also be sure to keep battery terminals clear of corrosion. Avoid Sliding on Roads Sliding while driving on icy roads is sometimes unavoidable. By driving at safe speeds according to conditions, you will have an advantage at overcoming these slides. As a rule of thumb, take curves slowly and give yourself plenty of stopping room when applying your brakes. Utilizing these practices can reduce your risk of sliding. Even if you feel the roads have been sufficiently cleared after a storm, it is still important to drive cautiously. Black ice may form when a surface is below freezing and rain is falling. This type of ice is very difficult to
spot and may send your car into a slide if you’re not prepared. Other Dangers It is important to remember that speed limits are made based on dry weather and clear roads. Always drive slowly during winter conditions and increase your following distance. Bridges and overpasses will most likely be the first area of a highway to become icy. Be ready to slow down as you approach a bridge.
Top Notch Care!
Our goal is optimal recovery, which means that we help our residents achieve the highest level of function possible. We strive to duplicate as many real life experiences as possible, allowing you to practice and prepare for the move back home.
Creswell
Coast Fork
735 S. 2nd St. Creswell, Oregon 97426
515 Grant Ave. Cottage Grove, Oregon 97424
Health and Rehabilitation Center Ph:
(541) 895-3333
Rehabilitation Palliative Care
Nursing Center Ph:
(541) 942-5528
Nursing Care Respite Care
www.PrestigeCare.com
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Estate planning 101
Inventory Your Belongings No one likes to talk about their own death, but having a solid last will and testament will ease the amount of stress on your family at the time of your passing. A detailed list of your physical and financial belongings is an important part of this legal document. Creating a physical list of your belongings will give you a visual guide for how you want to divide them among beneficiaries. It also will ensure that you didn’t leave out anything. Physical Belongings Taking inventory of belongings that you own will give you a good idea of your estate’s overall worth. Begin in one room and jot down the items you feel are valuable and their estimated worth. Indoor household staples you should include are typically televisions, furniture, jewelry and other expensive items. Typically, you should only list items that are worth more than $100, but an item that you plan to give as a gift must be listed no matter the value. Taking inventory outdoors is another part of the process. List vehicles, lawn equipment and any power tools you may have in your garage. These may seem like minor details, but you can alleviate a lot of the burden on your family by taking these steps. If you are a collector of any special items such as stamps or autographed memorabilia, you may need to find an expert to give you an accurate appraisal of your collection’s value. For instance, values of antique items can vary greatly. You may even find out you have an antique of significant value during appraisal. Financial Belongings
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The next step of inventorying your belongings is to list your non-physical assets. List your bank accounts (joint or separate), 401(k) plans, IRAs, life insurance policies and every other type of insurance policies you have. These may include homeowners, health and auto. You can’t have a solid plan for how your financial assets will be doled out without first knowing exactly what makes up your portfolio. Start working with an advisor today to define and inventory the worth of your resources. Don’t Forget Debts Even after our death, our debts remain and can become the responsibility of whoever you choose as executor. This person will be charged with using the assets of your estate to cover your debts. Here you should list any money you owe for your home, vehicles, credit cards or medical bills. It’s a good idea to acquire a credit report to make sure there are not any lingering credit card or other debts you may have forgotten about. Health Care Directives When preparing your final will, an important section will cover health care directives. This section provides legal instructions about the type of care you want in case you face a medical condition that leaves you unable to declare these wishes yourself. There are typically two documents that need to be completed before your medical wishes can become official in case you become incapacitated. You may have heard the first one called a living will, an advanced directive or a patient advocate designation. Regardless what name it goes by, it is a crucial document. A second important document lists who you have chosen to be your power of attorney. Creating a Living Will Your living will is created to explain how you wish to be treated during a medical emergency that leaves you unable to direct treatment on your own. This document covers important answers to questions regarding resuscitation, your desired quality of life and end-of-life treatments that you may either approve or reject. When drafting your living will document, discuss its terms with your doctors, as they will likely be in on the decision about how treatment should be facilitated. Provide detailed instructions to your doctor on the treatment you prefer; he may be able to suggest other possible additions. Be as thorough as possible to take some of the weight off your power of attorney’s shoulders. Durable Power of Attorney There are different types of power of attorney, but when creating your document, you should appoint a reputable power of attorney. This gives your chosen agent power to control your finances and medical decisions if you are ever incapacitated. The process of choosing a trustworthy power of attorney demands extreme consideration and trust, as you will be putting your medical wishes solely on them. The AARP has some useful tips on factors to consider: • Choose a loved one who you feel can handle the responsibility; • Meet with an attorney to ensure your document meets state requirements; • Give your choice access to your bank account to handle your finances. She will only have access to funds in order to benefit you; • Discuss the person’s financial situation to be sure he is in good standing in managing his own money before you commit to him managing yours.
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Estate planning continued... Avoiding Probate Probate is a sometimes lengthy process that happens after a death. It can take months to a year before your belongings are divided as you wished. This tedious process may cause unnecessary stress on your loved ones as they wait for the courts to decide on their inheritance. There are different ways you can prevent probate and ensure your property passes directly to your beneficiaries without the hassle of court. Probate is easy to avoid and usually only takes a visit to your financial institution and instructions in your final will. Pay-On-Death Registration You can easily change your bank and retirement accounts into payable-on-death accounts. There is a simple form to fill out which gives you the opportunity to list a beneficiary. Ask your bank where you can find this form. In some states you can even register your vehicles and home for the same type of transfers. This is possible by creating titles and deeds that are not allowed to be transferred until death. Joint Ownership If your state does not offer a way to make your home transferable at the time of death, consider making the beneficiary a joint owner. This can be completed by simply adding your loved one’s name to your mortgage title. If you intend to leave your home to a spouse, you may become familiar with the term “tenancy by the entirety.” This type of joint ownership that can only be used by married people and is an effective way to avoid probate after death. If you choose to leave your home to someone other than a spouse, you will need to jointly own your property as joint ten-
ancy. In the occurrence of death, the other owner automatically receives the property, avoiding probate. Gifting Property Sometimes the easiest way to avoid probate is to give your belongings away before death occurs. Obviously, it may be more difficult to give away large items such as homes or vehicles, but consider giving heirlooms or other small items away to the beneficiary you intend. As an added bonus, you also will be rewarded by being able to see the recipient’s gratitude for the gift. Find a Professional Attorney You probably have been overloaded with advertisements for DIY will programs that claim to meet legal standards. These documents are typically prepared by simply filling in blanks on a website. They may be able to make your final will a legal document, but there is no substitute for a hands-on, face-to-face experience with a professional estate lawyer. When executing an important, final document such as a will, you may find more comfort working with a real person rather than staring at a computer monitor. An estate lawyer knows all the intricate details that pertain to the estate laws of your particular state. He also will provide a personal touch that a computer program cannot. Going Without a Will Without a will, you are playing with a dangerous game of chance. If you don’t have a legal method to outine who you want in possession of your property, state law steps in and decides for you. Most likely, the state will leave your belongings to your closest family members, such as a spouse, children or immediate family members. This may delay the process of a transfer, however, and if close relatives cannot be located, your belongings are inherited by the state.
Live in Affordable Luxury!
Assisted Living and Memory Care Apartments
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Funeral & Memorial Planning Cremation Options Monuments & Memorials Cemetery Services 123 South 7th Cottage Grove, Oregon 541-942-0185 www.smithlundmills.com Senior Resource Guide 2017
Our beautiful community is designed for those who need assistance or have memory impairments. You can be assured that you or your loved one will receive the best in care along with compassionate personal attention from our well trained staff.
Call or stop by for more information and a personal tour! We are available 7 days a week!
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SENIOR SERVICES PHONE DIRECTORY
AUTOMOTIVE DEALER & SERVICE Brad’s Cottage Grove Chevrolet .........541-942-4415 COMMUNITY SERVICES Community Sharing ................................. 541-942-2176 EDUCATION Osher Lifelong Learning Institute 975 High St, Ste 110, Eugene, OR .....................................................................541-346-0697 FIRE & AMBULANCE SERVICE South Lane County Fire & Rescue, FireMed ..............................Office 541-942-4493 Emergency 911 FUNERAL HOME, CREMATORY, CEMETERY Smith Lund Mills Funeral Chapel & Fir Grove Cemetery ....................................................541-942-0185 GOLF Middlefield Golf Course ........................541-942-8730 91 Village Drive, Cottage Grove, OR 97424
LAW ENFORCEMENT Cottage Grove Police Department ....... 541-942-9145 Creswell Police Department ................ 541-682-4150 LEGAL SERVICES Lane County ............................................ 800-575-9283 MEDICAL EQUIPMENT & SUPPLIES Grove Medical Equipment 148 Gateway Blvd (Bi-Mart Plaza) ...................................................................... 541-225-5443 King Medical Supply & Ostomy Specialists 431 W. 13th Ave (near Berg’s), Eugene, OR .......................................................................541-345-0391 MEALS ON WHEELS Cottage Grove & Creswell .................. 541-682-4038 MEDICAL PeaceHealth Cottage Grove Community Medical Center, 1515 Village Drive, Cottage Grove, OR 97424........................ 541-767-5500 MENTAL HEALTH South Lane Mental Health .................. 541-942-2850
HOME HEALTH & HOSPICE Sacred Heart Hospice ...............................541-461-7550
SENIOR CENTER Cottage Grove Senior Center ............... 541-942-8751
HOSPITAL FOUNDATION PeaceHealth Cottage Grove Medical Center Foundation........................................................... 541-767-5461
SENIOR & DISABILITY SERVICES Creswell Office ...................................... 541-682-4038
IN-HOME CARE Brightstar Care of Lane County 935 Oak St, Ste B, Eugene, OR ......................................................................541-632-7800 INSURANCE State Farm Insurance, Matt Bjornn, ChFC RICP 1481 Gateway Blvd, Cottage Grove, OR 97424 ...................................……………………..541-942-2623 Medicare (general) ................................ 800-633-4227 Oregon Health Plan .............................. 800-359-9517 Oregon Senior Health Insurance Benefit Assistance (SHIBA) at the Willamalane Center for Sports and Recreation 250 S. 32nd St, Springfield, OR 97477 .......................................................... 541-736-4421 8
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SENIOR MEALS DINING CENTERS Cresview Villa ......................................... 541-895-2338 Riverview Terrace ................................... 541-942-9261 SENIOR LIVING CONSULTANTS Social Security Administration .......... 800-772-1213 Tax Aid (AARP) ..................................... 888-687-2277 TRANSPORTATION South Lane Wheels ................................ 541-942-0456 UTILITY SERVICE Lane Electric.................................….541-484-1151 787 Bailey Hill Rd, Eugene, OR 97402
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VETERANS SERVICES Eugene ....................................................... 541-465-6918 Roseburg ..................................800-549-8387 (Ext. 44) Portland .................................... 800-949-1004 (ext. 5) VISION CARE Pacific Clearvision 257 N. 8th Street, Cottage Grove ..........................................................Office 541-204-2321
Senior Living & Care Facilities
ASSISTED LIVING COMMUNITIES Magnolia Gardens ................................. 541-942-0054 1425 Daugherty Ave., Cottage Grove, OR 97424 Middlefield Oaks Senior Living Community ..................................................................... 541-767-0080 1500 Village Dr., Cottage Grove, OR 97424 MEMORY CARE Magnolia Gardens ................................. 541-942-0054 1425 Daugherty Ave., Cottage Grove, OR 97424 Middlefield Oaks Senior Living Community ..................................................................... 541-767-0080 1500 Village Dr., Cottage Grove, OR 97424
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
Today’s retirees recognize that an active retirement tends to be more rewarding than simply sitting around the house, and that attitude is reflected in the vast number of retirees who volunteer with various nonprofit organizations and other programs across the globe. The following are a handful of volunteering opportunities for those retirees who want to give back and make the most of their retirements. These local organizations are looking for volunteers and could use your help. Bohemia Gold Mining Museum................................541-942-5022 Community Sharing......................................................541-942-2176 Cottage Grove Area Chamber of Commerce Visitor Center.................................................................541-942-2411 Cottage Grove Community Hospital Hospice.........541-942-0511 Cottage Grove Genealogical Society Jane Meyers ..................................................541-942-9570 Phyllis Pruitt..................................................541-942-3068 Library........................................................541-942-9570 Cottage Grove Historical Society.........................541-942-2176 Cottage Grove Public Library................................541-942-3828 Cottage Grove Senior Center.................................541-942-8751 Habitat for Humanity Cottage Grove affiliate..541-767-0358 Humane Society of Cottage Grove........................541-942-3130 Meals on Wheels Program......................................541-942-9261 Senior & Disability Services...................................541-682-3353 South Lane School District....................................541-942-3381 South Lane Wheels..................................................541-942-0456 This & That Corner Humane Society Thrift Shop ......................................................................................541-942-3130
NURSING FACILITIES LONG TERM CARE Coast Fork Nursing Center 515 Grant Ave., Cottage Grove, OR 97424 ..................................................................... 541-942-5528 Creswell Health & Rehabilitation Center 735 S Second St., Creswell, OR 97426 ..................................................................... 541-895-3333 RETIREMENT HOUSING Jefferson Park Apartments .................. 541-942-4808 325 South 5th Street, Cottage Grove, OR 97424 Riverstone Mobile Home Park ............. 541-942-4147 7750 South 6th St., Cottage Grove, OR 97424
Sentinel Cottage Grove
COTTAGE GROVE SENIOR CENTER Activities Schedule MONDAY Bingo 12:45pm
TUESDAY Woodcarving & Painting 10am Charity Quilting10am WEDNESDAY Pinochle 11:30-4pm Needle Arts and Crafts 1-4pm THURSDAY Mexican Train Dominos 12:30pm (1st & 2nd Thursdays) Bunko (4th Thursday of the month at 12pm) FRIDAY Pinochle 1-4pm Senior Law (2nd Friday of the month 10am-12pm)
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Planning for retirement-what you need to know Retirement Planning Being retired is a common goal for Americans. Before you can comfortably spend your days sleeping in, out on the lake or catching up taking time to yourself, you must have a retirement plan in order. AARP (formerly the American Association of Retired Persons) urges Americans to hire a financial advisor to protect their savings. An advisor will give you solid advice on investing at the right times. With their help, you can watch your nest egg grow and relax without the stress of financial trouble. Finding an Advisor AARP recommends finding an advisor who identifies as a “fiduciary.” This means they are someone who puts your interests ahead of his or her own. They are considered the safest option when it comes to providing unbiased advice that may conflict with your own wishes. Here are some other strategies AARP recommends when finding the right advisor for your situation. • Credential check: It’s important to know that your potential advisor has his current credentials in good standing and doesn’t have any negative marks on his record. You can find more about individual advisors through The Commodity Futures Trading Commission. • How they’re paid: You have the right to know how your advisor is being compensated. She will likely be paid hourly, by commission or by a percentage of assets under management. If it is a percentage, the fees should generally be under 1 percent annually. • Talk to other clients: Ask your potential advisor for contact information of other people they represent. This gives you a good chance to gauge his success rate and commitment. If he refuses this information, it might be a red flag.
• Get your plan in writing: Having a written strategy about why an investment makes sense for you will make it easier to understand. You may ask for an investment policy statement to outline the details of how your advisor will meet your goals. Types of Advisors You already know to look for fiduciary standards when seeking an advisor. You likely will see other designations when you are on your search. Here are the other common terms and how they operate: • Advisors who follow the “suitability” standard can sell you products based on age or risk tolerance. These products may not be beneficial to your needs. • Dually registered advisors bounce around from fiduciary to suitability standards. You might find them inconsistent when planning your retirement.
Grove Medical Equipment & Supplies “BUILDING A HEALTHY COMMUNITY” Home Oxygen • Aides to Daily Living • CPAP/BiPAP • Home Medical Alarms Hospital Beds • Breast Pumps • Wheelchairs • Compression Stockings Nebulizer • Splints & Bracing • Walkers • Incontinence Supplies Catheters • Ostomy • Canes • Lift Chairs Crutches • Power Mobility • Bathroom Equipment • Wound Care Cold Therapy Units • Blood Glucose Testing Supplies • Blood Pressure Units • Knee Walkers
Matt Bjornn ChFC RICP, Agent 1481 Gateway Blvd Cottage Grove, OR 97424 Bus: 541-942-2623 matt@bjornninsurance.com
148 Gateway Blvd (Bi Mart Plaza)
Cottage Grove, OR 97424 Hours of Operation Monday –Friday 9:00 to 5:00 • Saturday by Appointment Sunday Closed 24 Hour On-Call Services (541-731-1441) INSURANCE BILLING AVAILABLE
541-225-5443 grovemedical@outlook.com
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Special Senior Pricing
Free assistance through the Senior Medicare Patrol. Report Medicare Fraud
Tournaments • Tee Times • Leagues • Special Rates
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Hobbies and activities to stay healthy
Yoga helps relax the mind and keep the body moving well after retirement.
Magnolia Gardens
Assisted Living and Memory Care
Quality you’ve come to trust from Magnolia Gardens and Magnolia Village; Locally Owned by Carmen Young.
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Tai Chi and fitness classes weekdays at 9:30 am Live bands once a week! Alzheimer’s Support group every third Thursday afternoon at 4:00 pm Call Mindy for a campus tour and calendar of events 541-942-0054 Retirement Living Guided by goodness, loyalty, faith, and fun!
Yoga for Seniors As you age, you might notice pain in your joints or muscles that wasn’t always present. It is easy to use this soreness as an excuse to avoid physical activity. Participating in weight-bearing activities such as yoga stretches, however, promotes flexibility and overall health. Before signing up for classes, be sure to schedule an appointment with your physician. Make sure you are in good enough health to introduce yoga into your regimen. Your local health professional might recommend you start out with a less strenuous exercise to prepare your body before fully jumping into yoga. Yoga is also a way to introduce yourself to the community and engage with new people while trying something out of the box. Check with your local community center, gym or senior center for available yoga classes geared for seniors. Elements of Yoga Yoga was designed to enhance the mind, body and spirit. It focuses on three important elements: exercise, breathing and meditation. Practicing yoga provides a calming effect and allows you a unique opportunity to take your mind off your busy routine and focus on yourself. According to the American Senior Fitness Association, aging causes a loss of flexibility in our rib cages. This may sometimes cause spinal deformities that lessen room for lung expansion. Yoga helps seniors remember to fully inhale and exhale which helps to slow down heart rates to improve focus and concentration. Asana is the other aspect of yoga. It is a Sanskrit term which translates to “pose” or “posture.” Achieving asana means there is a balance between each side of the body. This means no organ, muscle, joint or bone is under any excessive stress. Senior Health Benefits Practicing yoga does much more than provide you with physical activity and enhance flexibility. Here are some other good reasons you should try it, per the SFA: • Sleep better: A yoga routine helps seniors fall asleep faster and improves the overall quality of sleep. • Healthy sugar levels: Diabetes is a big contributor to senior illness. Studies show that practicing yoga for just 40 minutes a day significantly lowers blood sugar levels. • Eases pain: Studies show that yoga can reduce chronic pain levels and the reliability of pain medication. Benefits from Common Positions AARP has laid out the names of some common positions you will be asked to perform. Here is how they help: Tree pose: Achieved by standing on one leg, it is great for improving balance. Plank: Performed by holding yourself up with your hands and feet. It builds upper-body strength and core stability. Camel pose: Accomplished by standing on your knees and stretching backwards. It’s a great way to stretch and open your chest.
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Basics of longterm health care insurance Various insurance plans protect individuals from financial calamity. Insurance works by requiring policy holders to pay a premium. In the event of an accident or incident, a claim can be filed and the insurance company will reimburse the person for expenses, minus the deductible. Health insurance is one type of insurance that people have to manage their health and well-being. There’s also another, perhaps lesser-known insurance that can prove invaluable. It is called long-term care insurance. Long-term care insurance, or LTCI, is an insurance product that is found primarily in the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom. LTCI generally covers assisted living needs, home care, hospice care, adult daycare, and other requirements of senior living and/or health management. People
who invest in LTCI are planning ahead for the times when they may no longer be able to care for themselves without assistance. LTCI will help offset the ever-rising costs associated with specialized senior housing and nursing facilities. Traditional healthcare insurance and government-sponsored plans (i.e., Medicare in the United States) will not pay for daily, extended care services. The AARP notes that these other plans may only cover a short stay in a sub-acute rehabilitation center or nursing home, or pay for a limited amount of athome care. LTCI can help families finance the cost of medical care when all other options will not. LTCI should be looked into early in life, as policies often cost less if purchased when one is younger and in good health. People in poor health or already receiving long-term
care services may not qualify for LTCI outright. But there are some workarounds, including buying a limited amount of coverage or coverage at a higher “nonstandard” rate. Some policies do not require medical underwriting, and these may be advantageous to people with preexisting health conditions. When shopping for policies, look into how long LTCI will pay. Some policies include limits on how long or how much providers will pay for care, with some plans maxing out at two to five years. Other policies may not implement a term limit. Speak with a tax specialist as well, as premiums paid on a long-term care insurance products may be tax deductible. Long-term care insurance is a way for individuals to finance the often expensive costs for medical services that may be required as one ages.
Keeping your memory sharp well after retirement Strategies for staying sharp: • Start exercising the brain early on. A study published in 2012 in the British Medical Journal examined cognitive function in people ages 45 to 70. Researchers found evidence of cognitive decline in the 45-year-old participants as well as the older participants. It’s never too early to put a brain health plan into motion. • Read more books. Reading can open individuals up to new vocabulary and scenarios that promote a stronger brain and recall ability. Enrolling in an education course at a local college, com-
munity center or online also may be beneficial. • Hit the gym. Several studies suggest an association between physical activity and reduced risk of cognitive decline. • Supplement with DHA. DHA is an omega-3 fatty acid that is dominant in the brain. Adhere to a Mediterranean diet, which is generally high in natural sources of omega-3, including fish and mono-unsaturated fats from olives, olive oil, nuts and seeds. Supplements also may help, but individuals should consult with their doctors about which products to take.
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Escaping the cold
S
eniors are more vulnerable to winter’s harsh conditions, so do yourself a favor this winter by planning a warm-weather getaway. Planning a vacation to escape winter weather is a great way to keep yourself safe from falls and cold-related illnesses. Luckily, there are many options seniors have when it comes considering affordable and easily accessible vacation spots. Talk to your local travel agent about booking the perfect getaway. Plan Ahead Planning your vacation with plenty of time to spare will be a less stressful experience than booking everything at the last minute. A local travel agency can take even more of the responsibility off your plate by booking rooms and flights for your vacation. Make a checklist for the items that are required for your trip. Doing so will give you the chance to pick up a few items every few weeks rather than having to buy it all at once. This can save headaches and won’t hit your wallet all at once. Research Your Destination Look online for references and ratings regarding your dream destination. You can get a good idea on what to expect and how to plan. By researching, you will be able to discover what kind of activities you can participate in. Knowing what to expect can make packing a simpler process. Traveling Abroad If you have never left the country, now may be the best time. You should enjoy your retirement by seeing what the world has to offer. There are a few important differences when traveling abroad than traveling from state to state. First, you’ll need a passport. You will be required to pay a small fee, provide a notarized copy of your birth certificate and
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a photo ID. You can access a passport at a Passport Acceptance Facility. Your passport may take up to six weeks to become available, so be sure to begin the process long before your departure date. Depending on the country you choose to visit, you may be required to carry a visa. A visa can become available just as easily as a passport if you apply for it long before your vacation. However, a rushed visa may make things complicated and hinder your international vacation.
Travel, travel, travel Plan a Vacation The chilly winter months are a perfect time to plan a vacation somewhere with sand and sunshine. Whether you like to plan ahead with a trusted travel agent or prefer the thrill of a last-minute deal, these sunny locales will make you forget all about the dreary weather back home and chase away those winter blues. Staying Continental If flying isn’t your cup of tea or you don’t like the thought of a long flight, have no fear. Each of these sunny locations is situated within the continental United States: Palm Springs, Calif. Think desert panoramic views, iconic architecture and pool-side cocktails. Palm Springs is a perfect marriage of flora and fauna — and surprisingly affordable. Miami, Fla. Get your taste of mid-century architecture and your crav-
ings satisfied with Miami’s booming food scene. Relax by the ocean or poolside by day and enjoy the eclectic clubs and art scene by night. Scottsdale, Arizona If golfing is your Saturday (or everyday) go-to, look no further than Scottsdale. Winter temps average in the low 70s, making it the perfect time of year to visit. Don’t forget to check out the city’s ardent art scene — brimming with local crafts, Native American jewelry and food markets. Exotic Locales Honolulu, Hawaii Hawaii is the home of yearround sunshine. Honolulu, the state’s capital, is the gateway to the island chain. U.S. Virgin Islands White powder beaches and blue waters for miles, this is a perfect match for someone who wants to slow down and experience a little “island time.”
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Watching out for scams
Scams that target the financial well-being of seniors have become such a problem that the National Council on Aging has called them “the crime of the 21st century.” Don’t let your finances become vulnerable to these scams. Today’s con artists have many techniques when it comes to scamming you out of your hard-earned money. Some of them include telemarketing, investments and even lottery scams. It’s important to be able to recognize and react to different types of phone swindles that can hang you and your finances out to dry. Types of Phone Scams One of the most common scams among con artists is a fake telemarketing call. Seniors make twice as many purchases over the phone as other age groups based on the national average. This may make it easier to entice you into giving them your personal information. Another popular scam you may experience is called the pigeon drop. This is performed by a con artist claiming to have
Navigating dating and adult children New Relationships What happens when you want to date, but you have adult children who are not thrilled with the idea? This situation is a common one among single seniors. While having children is one of life’s greatest joys and ideally grows into a friendship between equals, it can be hard on children to think of a parent with someone new. Use the following steps as a guide to help you deal with your children and go on to find a loving and fulfilling relationship. Understand Their Point of View To appropriately address the issue, you must first understand the root of your child’s concern. If you are no longer with their mother or father, the thought of you in another relationship could feel hurtful to them. Alternatively, your children could be fine with the thought of you with another person but feel overwhelming concern for your well-being and worry about you being taken advantage of. A serious heartto-heart about their concerns often is a great first step. Assuage Their Fear
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Now that you know why your children don’t like the thought of you dating, you can better address their concerns. Oftentimes, the issues lie in a difference in life experiences. A 35-year-old views life differently than a person who is 75 years old. Talk to your children about the different perspective that age brings. For example, if you are a widow or widower, your children could be terrified of you meeting and falling for someone who also might pass before you. This is a risk you might be willing to take for the inherent joy a new relationship would bring. If so, explain this clearly. Stand Your Ground While your children may have strong opinions about your love life, it is your love life. Many children have a hard time seeing their parents as people who desire love, companionship and romance. There is a chance that your children will never accept your choice to date again — and you have to be OK with that. Whether they are overjoyed, begrudgingly accept the situation or completely disregard the idea, you are entitled to a love life.
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inherited a large sum of money but needing a good-faith payment from you in order to gain access. They will offer to split the inheritance once they receive the funds. A fake accident scam is another common call to avoid. A scammer will claim that a loved one has been involved in an accident and needs financial assistance to get the help they need. Always check with your loved one or other close family before even considering payment. How to Recognize a Scam Some phone scams will be easily recognized, but others are designed to startle you into making a payment. It is crucial to remember that U.S. companies or government agencies will never try to reach you by phone. Any legal issues needing resolution will be handled by U.S. mail or even certified mail. Knowing this will prepare you for any calls that claim to be from the Internal Revenue Service or a false deputy claiming you owe a penalty for missing jury duty. How to Handle a Scam Your first response to a scammer should be to immediately hang up the phone. Creating a conversation will let the scammer know you are willing to engage. This may cause your number to be shared amongst other scammers. Report any suspicious phone calls to the Federal Trade Commission. You may enter your claim online or by calling 1-877-FTC-HELP. The FTC will ask for information about the call and share your case with law enforcement offices across the country.
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Cottage Grove, we’re here for you. Your community hospital provides: n 24-hour emergency care
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n Outpatient physical therapy 1515 Village Drive, Cottage Grove, OR 97424 § 541-767-5500
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