Boomer & Senior Guide 2018

Boomer & Senior Sentinel Living

A SPECIAL PUBLICATION OF THE C ottage Grove

GUIDE

2018

Senior Resource Guide 2018

•

Cottage Grove Sentinel

•

(541) 942-3325

•

1

IT’S YOUR NEWS. READ ALL ABOUT IT YOUR WAY. Get the latest in news, sports, entertainment and shopping any way you like it.

From home delivery to electronic subscriptions we keep you in the know and on the go.

Get all the bonus features that come with your electronic subscription.

Go to www.cgsentinel.com for details.

Home Delivery Rates: Annual (52 weeks) $41.00 10 Weeks $11.00 e-Edition Only $35.00 per year

Sentinel Cottage Grove

2

•

Senior Resource Guide 2018

•

Cottage Grove Sentinel

•

(541) 942-3325

Call 541-942-3325 or visit www.cgsentinel.com for details.

116 N. 6th • PO Box 35 Cottage Grove, OR 97424 www.cgsentinel.com

INSIDE

Try Hosting ‘Family’ Dinners Maintaining Mental Health Keep Learning and Growing What to know about Medicare Understanding Pre-Planning Live Heathly, Live Longer Cottage Grove Senior Center Volunteer Opportunities Benefits of Volunteering Spending Time with Grandkids Get moving Social Security Basics Donating to Charity Find your balance Considering Assisted Livinig Become a Road Scholar Plant a Garden Cooking less, living more

Directory

4 5 5 6 7 7 9 9 10 11 11 12 13 13 14 14 15 15

Boomer & Senior Living GUIDE 2018

Sentinel C ottage Grove

A publication of the Cottage Grove Sentinel P.O. Box 35, 116 N. Sixth St. Cottage Grove, OR 97424, www.cgsentinel.com (541) 942-3325, Fax 942-3328.

Extra copies of this guide are available free of charge for distribution in places of business, offices and anywhere else they might be helpful. Call the Sentinel at (541) 942-3325 to make arrangements. ©Contents copyright 2018 Cottage Grove Sentinel

8

Senior Resource Guide 2018

•

Cottage Grove Sentinel

•

(541) 942-3325

•

3

Try Hosting ‘Family’ Dinners Food is often the heart of any community. Getting together to break bread allows for special time to form new relationships and nurture continuing bonds.

This can be especially rewarding for seniors, who are at highest risk for eating alone. Hosting “family” dinners every week is a great way to not only chase away feelings of loneliness, but also beef up your recipe arsenal.

Share Meals Get your friends and neighbors together and begin hosting family dinners. You can decide to host every week, or you could set up a rotation so that others have the opportunity to host.

You might even find that a group of you meet every week in the summer and hit the farmer’s markets together.

Flex your ‘Iron Chef’ Muscles If you enjoy a little friendly competition, you might find that introducing some “Iron Chef” magic into your family dinners will add a new level of merriment among guests. Maybe once a month — after your weekly dinners have been well established — your group could organize a competition.

Don’t be intimidated by odd ingredients. You could pick a wellknown and well-liked dish, such as chili or spaghetti, and choose two members of your group for a cook-off. By choosing only two, you keep the amount of food limited, ensuring none is wasted.

Swap Recipes Hosting family dinners among your community also introduces you to new types of meals. Each week the dinner host could write out the recipes for each dish in the meal for guests to take home.

You can plan menus in advance and post them in a communal area (or email them out) to boost excitement. Just be sure to be mindful of any allergies guests may have, and while not a requirement, it is thoughtful to avoid ingredients toward which any your “family” has strong aversions.

Assisted Living and Memory Care

Quality you’ve come to trust from Magnolia Gardens and Magnolia Village • Tai Chi and Fitness Classes Weekdays at 9:30am • Bingo Weekdays at 1:00 pm

Get in the Clear With Trusted Vision Care

• Live Bands Weekly!

We offer a full range of comprehensive eye care services, including:

Magnolia Gardens 541-942-0054 1425 Daugherty Ave Cottage Grove, Oregon 97424 www.magnoliacampus.com

The Doctors & Staff at ClearVision’s Cottage Grove Eye Clinic are dedicated to providing the local community with the best eye care possible.

Cottage Grove Eye Clinic 257 N. 8th Street Cottage Grove 541-204-2321

www.pcvi.com 4

•

Senior Resource Guide 2018

•

Cottage Grove Sentinel

•

(541) 942-3325

• Medical Eye Care • Pre & Post Operative Care • Glaucoma Treatment • Retinal Treatment • Cataract Care • Regular Vision Care • Contacts, Glasses, Sunglasses and More

Come by and visit us today, we’re right beside the library.

Maintaining Mental Health For a lot of seniors, aging brings up many serious health issues.

These problems go far beyond physical ailments and illnesses. Mental health is a major concern for older Americans. This spring, be honest with yourself about your mental state of mind and seek help if you feel concerned.

According to the American Psychological Association, this grave issue is often underutilized because of inadequate funding for mental health services. It also can be hard for someone to accept that they require attention for a mental illness.

This can be dangerous, as the APA suggests seniors sometimes turn to self-medicating their symptoms with alcohol abuse. It is one of the eight leading causes of death in older populations.

Role of a Geropsychologist Mental illness experts offer assistance to seniors in coping with the psychological and emotional consequences of illness, loss of loved ones and even the need for assisted-living care. Their role in supporting seniors through their mental illness is imperative, as they can suggest the steps to take for treatment. These specialty psychologists even work with families to maintain the well-being and quality of life of their loved ones.

If you believe you require special treatment, don’t hesitate to ask your general practitioner for a reference.

Common Conditions in Seniors Mental illness is a vast epidemic facing seniors. It goes far beyond being depressed. The APA reports these other common conditions to be just as serious in the battle for mental health: Alzheimer’s Disease: Defined as the irreversible deterioration of intellectual ability, often accompanied by emotional disturbances, Alzheimer’s affects 7 percent of Americans ages over 65 and 30 percent of those over 85.

Dementia: This serious illness impacts between 2.6 to 4.5 million Americans aged over 65. Symptoms usually include paranoia and anxiety. Alzheimer’s disease accounts for 60 to 80 percent of dementia cases, according to the Alzheimer’s Association.

When to Seek Help At the instant you feel you are suffering from depression or another illness caused by mental illness, it’s time to talk to your doctor. Don’t take symptoms lightly, as they can quickly spiral out of control, leaving seniors with a sense of confusion or sadness.

If your symptoms ever get severe enough to consider suicide, call 800-273-8255. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is available 24 hours a day.

KEEP LEARNING AND GROWING Just because you’ve retired from the workforce or the whirlwind of family activities has eased up doesn’t mean you can’t still stay active through volunteering or even building new skills.

Read on for tips on how to stay involved and active.

Volunteerism If you like to travel, this new trend might be right up your alley. A 2008 study estimated that more than a million people do volunteer work while on vacation, and the numbers have only gone up from

there. Hook up with volunteerism opportunities through your church, professional organizations, or through your local travel agency.

Hit the books If you’ve always wanted to learn sculpture, computer coding or conversational German, now’s your time. Look for leisure classes at local colleges and universities, or ask if you can audit a traditional class without a grade. Don’t be intimidated by all the youngsters; they can benefit from your life experience as much as from the class you’re both taking.

Passing on the lessons Speaking of that life experience, you spent decades building up a successful career and learned a lot of lessons along the way. Look for opportunities to give back as a mentor, teaching a class or as a consultant. For instance, if you owned your own business, you can reach out through SCORE, a nonprofit association that matches volunteer mentors with small business owners. Also check with churches and other groups to put your skills to work in a new way.

Join a club Remember that conversational German class? Don’t let those skills get rusty. Join or even start a club. There are clubs for just about every interest and involvement level, and they’re a great way to meet new people with your interests. Check local community calendars, social media or the newspaper for meeting dates and times.

Senior Resource Guide 2018

•

Cottage Grove Sentinel

•

(541) 942-3325

•

5

What to Know About Medicare Medicare is a federal health insurance plan that working Americans pay into through payroll taxes. It is a valuable benefit, as most Americans’ health insurance is tied to their jobs, thus leaving a hole when workers retire, but enrolling in and navigating the program can be a daunting task.

The AARP has a Medicare Question and Answer Tool to walk people through the plans Medicare offers, what health care coverage you need and can afford, and the timeline you should expect as you are signing up.

Basics of Medicare At age 65, Americans are eligible for Medicare. There are four parts: • Part A (hospital): Helps pay for the cost of hospital stays and time in short-term skilled nursing facilities, hospice and home health services.

• Part B (medical): Helps pay for doctors, outpatient and preventive care and certain medical equipment.

• Part C (Medicare Advantage): An alternative coverage option that puts all your Medicare benefits into one plan.

• Part D: Helps cover the cost of outpatient prescription drugs.

If you or your spouse have earned a minimum of 40 work credits through paying Medicare payroll taxes, you won’t pay monthly premiums for Part A insurance. Work credits aren’t necessary for Part B or D services, though there is a monthly premium for those.

Like traditional health insurance, Medicare does not cover all health care costs. Plans have different deductibles, premiums and copays.

Your income also may be a factor on how much you pay.

How to Sign Up For Medicare Even after paying payroll taxes and turning 65, most Americans

still must apply for Medicare. The initial enrollment period lasts for seven months, with the fourth month being the month you turn 65.

You should sign up during this period if you have no other health insurance or have insurance you bought yourself; you have retiree benefits from a former employer; you have COBRA coverage or veterans’ benefits; or you’re in a nonmarital relationship and covered by their insurance. If you enroll before your 65th birthday; your coverage begins on the first day if the month you turn 65. If you enroll after, there is a delay.

A special enrollment period is available for people who have health insurance past the initial period and allows them to delay enrolling in Part B until their previous coverage ends. There also are exceptions for expatriates or people who are covered through a spouse’s insurance.

3.5” x 2.5” | Maximum Font Size: 30 pt

Knowing our clients personally is what we do.

Kyle A Dooley Financial Advisor .

1137 E Main Cottage Grove, OR 97424 541-767-2675 www.edwardjones.com

MKT-5894I-A

D D D D

Member SIPC

Funeral & Memorial Planning Cremation Options Monuments & Memorials Cemetery Services 123 South 7th Cottage Grove, Oregon 541-942-0185 www.smithlundmills.com

6

•

Senior Resource Guide 2018

•

Cottage Grove Sentinel

•

(541) 942-3325

Understanding Pre-planning

Before you can become familiar with estate planning, it’s imperative to understand the concept of an estate.

Consider everything you own, including your car, home, bank accounts and even personal possessions. Your estate consists of everything that is legally yours.

When you’re gone, it is in your family’s best interest that you have delegated where it all goes.

Losing a loved one is never easy, but preparing for it by creating a legal will can relieve unnecessary stress experienced by a mourning family. By meeting with a professional lawyer or estate-planning expert, you will eliminate the risk of long legal battles over your property when you’re not here to fight for it.

Who Needs a Plan?

It is easy for younger Americans to dismiss the idea that they need legally standing documentation related to their estate.

However, it is important for people entering adulthood to sort their assets and begin forming their plan.

For aging or retired people, it’s never too late to talk to a professional and get your estate in shape.

Discussing death is never an easy topic, but the peace of mind that comes with having a properly prepared plan in place can lessen the stress it may cause.

Remember, explaining concise instructions for how your estate should be handled once you’re gone is a thoughtful way to express your love for yourself and family.

What it Contains Creating a solid estate plan requires several decisions and legal documents. It is the only way you can ensure the things you worked for remain in the hands of your loved ones.

CEREC - Single Visit Crowns Implants · Teeth Whitening

Dr. Brent Bitner, DDS

350 Washington, Cottage Grove (behind Better Bodies)

541.942.7934

This is why working with a professional — in person — is crucial to your legacy.

Before you meet with an expert, become familiar with a few steps in the process.

Make a will: Typically, the first part of pre-planning is creating a will. It will express your wishes for who you want to inherit your property and appoint a guardian for young children in case both parents are demised.

Healthcare directives: This section is to protect your wishes in case you are unable to make medical decisions for yourself. You will appoint a power of attorney for healthcare, who will make the decisions according to the instructions you gave in the document.

Beneficiary forms: Choosing a beneficiary for your bank accounts means they become payable on death. Your loved one will avoid a lengthy probate issue in court once receiving the accounts.

The process is involved yet important. Schedule an appointment with a professional to protect your legacy and family.

Live Healthy, Live Longer

According to the Mayo Clinic, less than 3 percent of Americans meet the basic qualifications for a “healthy lifestyle.” Another report published by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine asserts that Americans’ health ranks below 16 other developed countries. We can do better than this.

The good news is that living healthy is (mostly) in your control. Before we can improve, it is important to understand the current state of our health.

This is what we know, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services: • Less than 5 percent of adults participate in 30 minutes of physical activity every day.

• Only 40 percent of adults 75 years of age and older are physically active in any capacity.

• An older adult is treated in the emergency room for injuries related to falls every 15 seconds.

• Every 29 minutes, a senior adult dies following a fall.

• Approximately 90 percent of Americans consume more sodium than is recommended for a healthy diet.

• If Americans reduced their sodium intake by just 1,200 mg per day, more than $20 billion could be saved in medical costs each year.

Here are some statistics from the National Council on Aging: • Approximately 80 percent of older adults have at least one chronic disease — and 77 percent have more than one.

• 90 percent of Americans age 55 and older are at risk for high blood pressure.

• Approximately 20 percent of senior Americans suffer from depression but only 3 percent receive treatment.

• Studies show exercising your brain is just as important as exercising your body as you age. The longer you stay a student, the more likely you are to ward off dementia.

• It is important to keep your thoughts positive. Those who worry about falling tend to fall more often that those who don’t.

Senior Resource Guide 2018

•

Cottage Grove Sentinel

•

(541) 942-3325

•

7

SENIOR SERVICES PHONE DIRECTORY

AUTOMOTIVE DEALER & SERVICE Brad’s Cottage Grove Chevrolet ................541-942-4415 2775 Row River Rd COMMUNITY SERVICES Community Sharing ........................................ 541-942-2176

DENTAL Brent Bitner, DDS 350 Washington..................................................541-942-7934 Chambers Brdige Dental 914 S. 4th St.......................................................541-942-1559 FINANCIAL INVESTMENT Edward Jones, Kyle Dooley 1137 E. Main.......................................................541-767-2675 FIRE & AMBULANCE SERVICE South Lane County Fire & Rescue, FireMed .....................................Office 541-942-4493 Emergency 911

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 MENTAL HEALTH South Lane Mental Health ......................... 541-942-2850 MOVING SERVICE Move in Comfort ............................................. 541-338-4310 NEWSPAPER Cottage Grove Sentinel ................................ 541-942-3325 SENIOR CENTER Cottage Grove Senior Center ...................... 541-942-8751 SENIOR & DISABILITY SERVICES Cottage Grove Office ................................... 541-682-4038

FUNERAL HOME, CREMATORY, CEMETERY Smith Lund Mills Funeral Chapel & Fir Grove Cemetery ...........................................................541-942-0185

SENIOR MEALS DINING CENTERS Cresview Villa ................................................ 541-895-2338 Riverview Terrace ...........................................541-942-9261

GOLF Middlefield Golf Course ..............................541-942-8730 91 Village Drive, Cottage Grove, OR 97424

SENIOR LIVING CONSULTANTS Social Security Administration .................. 800-772-1213 Tax Aid (AARP) ............................................. 888-687-2277

IN-HOME CARE Visiting Angels..................................................541-505-7444

TRANSPORTATION South Lane Wheels ....................................... 541-942-0456

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

VETERANS SERVICES Eugene .............................................................. 541-465-6918 Roseburg ..........................................800-549-8387 (Ext. 44) Portland ............................................ 800-949-1004 (ext. 5)

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 8

•

Senior Resource Guide 2018

•

Cottage Grove Sentinel

•

(541) 942-3325

VISION CARE Pacific Clearvision 257 N. 8th Street, Cottage Grove.................541-204-2321

Sentinel Cottage Grove

www.cgsentinel.com

@

cgsentinel @cgsentinel #cgsentinel

Cottage-Grove-Sentinel

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 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

SOUTH LANE COUNTY FIRE & RESCUE The Only Emergency Medical Transport Service in South Lane County

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

COTTAGE GROVE SENIOR CENTER A S ctivities

chedule

MONDAY Bingo 12:45pm

TUESDAY Woodcarving & Painting 10am Charity Quilting10am WEDNESDAY Pinochle 11:30-4pm Needle Arts and Crafts 1-4pm

Call 541-942-4493 for info.

FOR EMERGENCY DIAL 911 Serving South Lane County.

www.southlanefire.org

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) Call us at the Cottage Grove Senior Center if you have any questions or would like to start or have a new activity at

Senior Resource Guide 2018

•

541-942-8751.

Cottage Grove Sentinel

•

(541) 942-3325

•

9

Benefits of Volunteering Volunteering can be one of the most rewarding experiences for seniors. While monetary donations are always appreciated by organizations, often what is needed most is time.

Not only is it enjoyable, but giving of one’s time has many physical, mental and psychological advantages.

prevent depression. Volunteering provides seniors a reason for leaving their homes — an activity many older generations resist doing for a number of reasons. One of the most rewarding aspects of volunteering is meeting new people and forming new relationships.

You never know who you might meet and who you might help.

Benefits to You The National Institute on Aging states that participating in social leisure activities and meaningful, productive activities such as volunteering may lower the risk of health problems in seniors, including dementia. Remaining active is a great way to make new friends.

When you commit your time to a worthy cause, you will find yourself becoming an active member of your community.

According to the Corporation for National and Community Service, those who volunteer experience greater life satisfaction, a sense of purpose and accomplishment and stress resilience.

Don’t be surprised if you find yourself rushing around recruiting and raising funds for your cause. The physical demands of volunteering can offer benefits that enhance your overall health.

Strengthens Mental Health Volunteering works to keep your brain active, which is just as important as physical activity. The National Institute on Aging reports that participating in meaningful activities, and nurturing feelings of productivity, lowers the risk of dementia, among other health problems.

Strengthens Physical Health Physical activity and exercise are essential components in positive health. Many volunteer opportunities offer a physically active component to them — everything from stuffing envelopes to staffing events. Maintaining a healthy fitness level is essential especially for seniors to help keep your immune system strong and prevent diseases.

Strengthens Psychological Health Volunteering has been shown to diminish feelings of isolation and

Enriches Your Time People who volunteer often feel more confident and hold a higher self-worth because they feel they contribute value to their broader community, according to a study out of Wharton College.

No matter what you choose to devote your time to, the important aspects to keep in mind are to find events and organizations that suit your schedule, and help a cause you feel passionate about.

Both of these factors will affect your commitment to volunteering, and your impressions of volunteering as a whole.

Live in Affordable Luxury!

Make a Difference!

Volunteer Opportunities:

*Senior Meals (Café 60 & Meals on Wheels) *Money Management *Senior Companions and Elder Help *Escort Ride Program for Medical Transportation

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 fromour well trained staff.

Call or stop by for more information and a personal tour!

We are available 7 days a week!

541-682-3353 • www.sdslane.org

Assisted Living and Memory Care Apartments 1500 Village Dr., Cottage Grove, OR 97424 541-767-0080 • www.MiddlefieldOaks.com 10 •

Senior Resource Guide 2018

•

Cottage Grove Sentinel

•

(541) 942-3325

Spending Time with Grandkids During the hustle and bustle of everyday life, it can be hard to schedule fun activities with precious grandchildren. Take advantage of spring break by creating memories. Mom and dad will thank you for the break.

The bond between grandchild and grandparent is not easily replicated. Grandparents typically enjoy adoring and spoiling their grandchildren. What child doesn’t enjoy that?

Grandparents serve as role models, mentors, nurturers and best friends. Spend some time this spring by solidifying your role in you grandchildren’s lives. The more people a child feels they can turn to in times of need, the better.

Outdoor Scavenger Hunt Spring weather brings out furry animals, beautiful flowers and the return of leaves to bushes and trees. Before your grandchildren come to spend the day at your house, spend some time analyzing common things you see around the yard.

Compile these items and animals into a list to create your own scavenger hunt. You will enjoy a wholesome afternoon watching your grandchildren scurry around trying to point out everything on the list.

For younger children, you can easily make this a learning game by introducing them to the different animals and species of flowers.

Visit a Library For most seniors, reading was a great source of entertainment while growing up. There weren’t tablets, computer screens or cell phones to waste free time.

Take your grandchild to a public library and show them the magic of getting lost in a good story and how it boosts imagination.

Don’t forget to support your community’s library all year. These important institutes assist in helping children develop and learn. Consider making donations whether it is currency or giving them books you have read and feel would make a difference to a reader.

Old Photos Did you ever break out the photo albums in hopes of embarrassing your children when dates or friends were brought to your home?

Good news: You can still show off your offspring to the children who call them mom and dad.

When kids connect the fact that their parents were once children themselves, it can spark a connection and a common bond, resulting in a heightened respect.

Get moving

It’s never too late to start a healthy habit like regular exercise. First, get cleared by your doctor, then lace up those shoes and get moving toward your CDC-recommended goal of 150 minutes of moderate-to-intense aerobic activity per week. Read on for more tips for a healthier, happier you.

Go low-impact That doesn’t mean you won’t see a big boost in your health. Low-impact exercises take it easy on your joints. Examples of low-impact exercises are walking, cycling, water aerobics, and various types of dancing. If you live in a warmer climate where it’s too hot for you to safely exercise outside, look for indoor walking circuits at local malls or department stores.

Get the right gear Talk to your doctor, especially if you have spine or bone issues or old injuries, then go to your local sporting goods store to get fitted for a good pair of all-purpose sneakers. Look for shoes that fit well, of course, and that give your feet and ankles the support they need. If you have trouble bending, several manufacturers make slip-on athletic shoes to make it even easier. Also invest in a reusable water bottle to take with you as you work out; hydration is critical.

Focus on balance Try to do balance exercises three days a week, particularly if you’ve fallen before. Exercises that can help with balance include heel-to-toe walking, backwards walking, sideways walking and tai chi.

You can even do some balance exercises, such as shoulder rolls and foot taps, during your normal, everyday activities.

Break it up Don’t focus on one activity. That can lead to overuse injuries and soreness. Try a variety of activities either on your own or as a part of a class. Many health clubs and gyms offer a senior discount and special classes for seniors; check out the ones in your area. If you have to stop your routine due to illness or injury, remember to take it slow as you work your way back up to your previous intensity and frequency.

Senior Resource Guide 2018

•

Cottage Grove Sentinel

•

(541) 942-3325

•

11

Social Security Basics

Most Americans who work pay into Social Security, which is designed to help people save for retirement.

The payment is automatic, but applying for benefits takes some time and effort — and lots of paperwork.

The U.S. Social Security Administration’s website, www.ssa.gov, has a retirement estimator that helps users estimate their monthly benefits, learn their full retirement age and make informed decisions about the process.

When Should I Get Social Security?

Workers who have paid into Social Security can get retirement benefits as early as 62 years old, but they will see reduced benefits if they cash in before full retirement age, which for most people is 66.

Waiting until 70 to start benefits will result in increased benefits.

The SSA recommends applying for benefits four months before you want those benefits to begin. You may want to do this even if you are still working when you reach full retirement age; it could mean more money for you. If earnings for the prior year are higher than one of the years used to compute your benefit, the SSA will redo that calculation and make the increase retroactive to January the year after you earned the higher way. This could result in higher survivors benefits as well.

If you receive benefits while working, the amount you get may be reduced depending on your income.

for benefits. The need for records doesn’t end when you’re receiving your benefits. Notify the SSA if you move, get married or divorced, change your name, adopt a child, have a change in citizenship status or start receiving a pension.

What Benefits Can My Family Get? If your spouse or child qualify, they may receive a monthly payment up to half of your full retirement benefit. This will not cut your benefit amount.

Children may qualify if they are minors, full-time high school students who are 18 or 19 or have a disability that started before age 22.

Spouses who have not paid into Social Security also may be eligible if they have reached full retirement age.

What Paperwork Do I Need?

To apply, you need your Social Security number, birth certificate, W-2 forms or self-employment returns for the previous year, military discharge papers, if applicable, and birth certificates and Social Security numbers for your spouse and children who are applying

Grove Medical Equipment & Supplies “BUILDING A HEALTHY COMMUNITY” 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

148 Gateway Blvd (Bi Mart Plaza)

Cottage Grove, OR 97424

541-225-5443 grovemedical@outlook.com Join us on Facebook

Call Call (541) 942-0456 (541) 942-0456 for Weekday for Weekday Service Information Service

Information

www.southlanewheels.org

•

Cottage Grove Sentinel

•

(541) 942-3325

Phone: (541) 942-8730

www.middlefieldgolf.com

Attendants Ride for FREE!

southlanetransit.org Senior Resource Guide 2018

91 Village Drive

Helpful, Professional Drivers!

Public Transportation in South Lane County

•

Tournaments • Tee Times • Leagues • Special Rates

No Eligibility Requirements!

E YON R E E V RIDE CAN

12

Special Senior Pricing

Your 18-hole publicly owned golf course

Matt Bjornn ChFC RICP, Agent 1481 Gateway Blvd Cottage Grove, OR 97424 Bus: 541-942-2623 matt@bjornninsurance.com State Farm, Bloomington, IL 1211999

Donating to Charity

Do you have a cause about which you are passionate? Consider donating a portion of your assets to an organization so its operation can continue growing with your financial gift.

When preparing your will with your attorney, stress your interest in making a lasting impression on a charity in which you believe.

Leaving behind a gift to a cause is a way to show thanks and remind people of something that was important to you. It also is a great example for your loved ones of how important supporting charitable organizations is to the future of our country and citizens.

Don’t be afraid to share your intentions for a donation with your family members involved in your estate planning.

They may choose to become volunteers or find they share the same passion as you. Bonding over charitable causes is a great way to build a stronger relationship.

Getting Started?

If you are taking the first steps in creating your estate plan and will,

the process of adding a charity as a beneficiary is simple. A qualified attorney can help find the necessary information required to include them in your plan.

According to the Protective Life Insurance Company, here are a few facts about the charity you will need to know.

• The official name of the charity; • Its current address; and • The organization’s registered charity number.

These requisites are important to ensure your donation will find its way into the right hands.

Updating an Existing Will Making changes to your will is easy with the help of a professional.

Some experts recommend creating a new will to include your chosen charity. When a new document is developed, a previous will becomes null and void. A codicil is a legal instrument made to modify an earlier will. Adding a charity by utilizing a codicil is typically a simple process.

However, when you make major adjustments such as altering a power of attorney or renaming a living trust, it can be more economical to simply redraft a will with the new information. Your legal advisor will guide you toward the best move for your changes.

Find Your Balance Personal balance is often taken for granted, but it is a fundamental quality of daily life.

According to the Center for Disease Control, 2.5 million older Americans are treated each year in the emergency room for injuries caused by falling.

Therefore, improving your balance is an essential component of preventative care.

Losing Your Balance Seniors most commonly lose their balance due to: • Poor vision; • Weakened joints; • Poor posture; • Dragging feet; • Increased dizziness; or • Delayed responsiveness.

Many of the above afflictions come as part of the natural aging process, but this does not mean you can’t work to improve your balance.

Regaining Your Balance The good news is your balance can be strengthened and regained through training. Much of our balance is lost as we age due to inactivity.

Simple stretching and sports, such as yoga or Pilates, are easy Senior Resource Guide 2018

•

and effective ways to retrain your body and regain balance you once had.

Chair Exercises If you are looking for something you can do a little each day (without a yoga mat) then grab a chair. Standing directly behind it, rest one hand on the back of the chair and the other on your hip.

Lift one leg, bending your knee slightly. Hold this leg up for a count of 10, bring it back down to the floor for a moment of rest, and then repeat. Do nine additional repetitions on that side, before repeating the exercise with your other leg.

Increase Your Flexibility Flexibility plays a large role in maintaining and strengthening your balance. Have you noticed it’s not as easy to complete everyday tasks, such as reaching for items on high shelves or bending over to put on shoes?

Stretching for 10 minutes each day will vastly improve your range of motion. Just be sure not to over extend yourself. Stretching should produce a nice pull — never pain.

Cottage Grove Sentinel

•

(541) 942-3325

•

13

Considering Assisted Living An assisted living facility is a residence hall for individuals who may need extra care with daily activities, such as medication, meal preparation and household chores, but do not need the full care of a nursing home.

They often feel like small apartments, as most residences require residents to bring their own furnishings and belongings, but can be a better option for some seniors because of the oversight and security they provide.

How is this different from a nursing home?

Nursing homes are designed for seniors who require daily care by a medical professional (those not just taking medication).

These facilities have nursing staff working 24 hours of every day, and often offer occupational and physical therapies to help meet their residents’ needs.

How much does is cost?

Cost will vary from residence to residence. Things like amenities, level of care, desired room size, location and location will all factor into monthly costs. However, it is safe to consider a monthly range of $1,500 to $6,000 per month.

• Outings in the community, such as shopping, in the residence van; • Housekeeping; and • Security.

What are the requirements to live in an assisted living facility?

Because assisted living facilities are not nursing homes, there are base requirements for admittance. An assisted living center cannot admit someone who does not meet these requirements unless the residence is specifically certified to meet specific needs.

According to the Assisted Living Facilities Organization, base requirements include: • Residents generally do not have a medical condition that will require 24-hour medical care; • Residents are not a threat to themselves or others; • Residents are free of communicable disease and have generally stable health; and • Residents do not chronically need help from another person to walk or descend stairs.

What services are available?

Again, this will vary with each facility, but here are a few services most commonly found in assisted living residences: • Two or three meals per day; • Medication management; • Regular hosted events for wellness, socializing and devotional services;

Become a Road Scholar

Retired and ready for your next adventure? Look no further than Road Scholar, a nonprofit organization that offers travel, educational opportunities and other experiences for seniors. The program, started in 1975 as Elderhostel, offers more than 5,500 learning adventures, taking scholars on trips to 150 countries throughout the world, with the aim of educating, introducing people to each other and to different cultures. These trips are planned with different levels of fitness, finances and experience in mind, with the organization planning the itineraries. Each trip is staffed by faculty experts who take scholars to the usual and not-so-usual attractions of a city or region and let them experience the food, history, customs and lifestyle. Trips are available for solo travelers, couples or groups, and the cost includes lodging, many meals, gratuities and group transportation. On international trips, the organization takes care of airfare as well. If you’re ready to explore the world, Road Scholar offers nature hikes through Costa Rica, a maritime journey in Croatia and Slovenia, or hiking through the Canadian Rockies or Cinque Terre, Italy. For the more historically minded, explore the Caribbean island of Martinique or visit Cuba or the Chesapeake Islands in Maryland.

If you want to stay closer to home or take a less expensive trip, learn about the ecology of the Channel Islands National Park off the coast of California or go on a five-day rejuvenation retreat. Want to explore a little further? Trips include time for independent exploration or optional learning adventures that you can add to your itinerary.

Or, if you want to make Road Scholar an intergenerational experience, check out Grandparent Journeys, which allow you to take your grandchildren with you to swim with sea life in Mexico, go back in time at Colonial Williamsburg or explore the many facets of Paris.

There is financial aid available; Road Scholar offers scholarships to people who want to go on an adventure but cannot afford to. The organization also has caregiver grants to help those who are caring for a sick, disabled or elderly family member pay the costs of arranging substitute care. For more information, visit www.roadscholar.org.

14 •

Senior Resource Guide 2018

•

Cottage Grove Sentinel

•

(541) 942-3325

Where We Treat You Like Family

KINGMEDICAL SUPPLY

OSTOMY SPECIALISTS

• Ostomy specialists • Wound care/First aid supplies • Urological supplies • Orthopedic support • Durable medical equipment • Knowledgeable, CARING STAFF Family Owned Since 1981 Medicare & Insurance Billing Monday - Friday 9-5

541-345-0391 431 W. 13th Ave • Eugene, OR (near Berg’s) Visit us at kingostomy.com Free Local Delivery With Minimum Purchase

Plant a Garden

Maintaining a small garden provides seniors with many health benefits. And it’s extremely rewarding to see those fruits and vegetables thrive. This spring, get outside and create a garden you can tend to and enjoy the results of the hard work you put in. When planning your garden, it is a good idea to find out which plants will flourish in your area. Talk to other local green thumbs and even your department of agriculture to get a good idea.

It also is wise to consider the wildlife native to your location. You might consider hiring a local professional to install a fence to keep the critters away.

Growing Fresh Foods The plants you grow will offer awesome nutrition and benefits to your overall health. The Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion suggests fruits and vegetables may reduce the risk of several chronic diseases in seniors. These are a few important vitamins you can find in your backyard when you grow the plants that contain them:

Vitamin D You might be surprised that the act of planting a garden helps you absorb a vitamin that regulates calcium and maintains the phosphorus levels in the blood. Vitamin D supports two key components in promoting healthy bones. Human skin creates large amounts of this important vitamin when it is exposed to the sun. The experts at the Vitamin D Council state that you don’t need to tan or burn your skin to receive the benefits. Rather, spending about half the time it takes for a burn to develop will be plenty of time to absorb nutrients.

Remaining Active Preparing a garden is hard work and requires general maintenance for the duration of the season.

If you suffer from heart conditions or other chronic illnesses, be sure to check with your doctor before you participate in the physical exertion required to grow an incredible garden.

Vitamin A: Found in orange vegetables such as carrots, sweet potatoes and pumpkin, Vitamin A also is present in tomatoes and pink grapefruit. This vitamin supports healthy vision, neurological function and healthy skin.

Vitamin C: Found in citrus fruits like kiwi, strawberries and papaya, Vitamin C is necessary for the growth, development and repair of body tissues. It also is found in broccoli, peppers and tomatoes.

Potassium: This incredible vitamin that helps provide relief from stroke, blood pressure and heart disorders is found in potatoes, bananas and oranges.

Cooking less, living more Where you once shoveled out spaghetti to feed a starving horde (or what felt like it, anyway), you may now only be cooking for yourself and your partner or just for yourself. And with cookbooks and cooking shows crowing about the ability to feed an army off one recipe, it can be hard to scale down your meals. Here are some tips to get you cooking with less waste and more fun.

Embrace the leftovers Pick dishes that are versatile. A roasted chicken can be served as a Sunday dinner, enchiladas on Monday and a tasty soup on Tuesday. Batches of bigger meals, like that giant pot of spaghetti, can be frozen in individual portions. Just remember to clearly label and date the portions and clean out your freezer regularly.

new recipes, cuisines and tips. It can make cooking fun and rewarding.

Grab a good book Hit your local library or bookstore and grab some cookbooks that specialize in cooking for one or two. You may even be able to find books that cater to special diets, like low-sodium or diabetes diets.

Try a book or two out of your comfort zone, maybe a new cuisine or a new trend.

Cooking for one or two shouldn’t mean a lifetime of TV dinners. Get in the kitchen and whip up some fun.

Plan, plan, plan A meal plan can be the godsend for you that it was when you had a big family at home. Take the time to sit down (maybe with a local grocery or two’s sale papers) and plan out what you’re going to have every meal. Then, stick to that list when you’re in the store. Be careful not to overbuy produce, and visit your grocer’s bulk bins for a right-sized and right-priced portion.

Phone a friend If you’re still having trouble paring down your menus, get together with several friends and swap groceries or fully cooked meals. Start a supper or lunch club. You get to try new recipes and share your bounty with others, too.

Take a class Look to local grocery stores and sometimes restaurants for cooking classes. Not only does this get you out and mingling, but you learn Senior Resource Guide 2018

•

Cottage Grove Sentinel

•

(541) 942-3325

•

15

In-Home, Personal Service

YOUR CARE...

YOUR WAY

• Up to 24-Hour Care • Assistance with Hygiene

• Day/Night, Live-In/Hourly Care

• Meal Preparation

• Weekends and Holidays

• Light Housekeeping

• Respite for Family Caregivers

• Errands and Shopping

• Personal Care

• Joyful Companionship

• Dementia/Alzheimer’s

• Temporary or Long-Term Care

• End of Life Care

VisitingAngels.com/Eugene • 541-505-7444 16

•

Senior Resource Guide 2018

•

Cottage Grove Sentinel

•

(541) 942-3325