A product of
We’d like to welcome Tim Griffon
New Service Manager at our Bonne Terre location We’d also like to thank everyone for a record breaking year in sales, and wish everyone a Happy New Year from McDowell South RV, y # RV dealer in Southeast Missouri. your #1 “With The Best Prices In The Nation, We Can’t Be Beat!” 4670 East Jackson Blvd, Jackson, MO 63755
7072 Raider Road, Bonne Terre, MO 63628
573.204.0800
573.358.7878
Tim Griffon and Kyle McDowell
LIFE PLANNING
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January 2021
Picking the right camper for you
Life Planning Guide 2021
Q: Are all campers good for all four seasons? Trailers with a four seasons or hot and cold package are suitable for most all weather. They have heated underbellies and are tested to 110°F and down to 0°F. Depending on the make and model, some come with more features for more extreme weather.
Q:Which camper sleeps the most people? Most all makes and models come with pull-out couches, dinette tables/booths that convert to beds and/or jackknife sofas that also convert to beds. Any camper with bunks will also naturally sleep more people. Though fifth wheel campers are larger than travel trailers, and therefore more spacious, it doesn’t necessarily equate to more designated areas for sleeping. Looking at floorplans in your RV searches will help determine this. Q: Do you have campers that are half-ton towable? Yes, we stock a large range of halfton towable campers. Most, if not all, travel trailers are half-ton towable. It all depends on your truck or vehicle’s tow rating. Q: Do all new campers come with a factory warranty? Yes, any new trailer we offer includes a one year bumper-to-bumper warranty. Some of our trailers come with a 3 year structural warranty, and most appliances come with a two year warranty. We also offer an extended service plan that covers you after the manufacturer’s
Kyle McDowell
Owner 573-204-0800 info@mcdowellsouthrv.com
trailers are also fiberglass sided, so they’re naturally more aerodynamic, easier to clean, and less prone to damage such as dents.
Q: Which exterior is better, fiberglass or metal? As explained in the above reQ: Is there an advantage to an alusponse, fiberglass is lighter and minum frame over a wood box easier to clean with less mainteframe? nance involved, and metal sided Aluminum framed trailers weigh trailers are generally cheaper and less and are more structurally solid easier to fix if damage occurs. In than a wood box frame. Aluminum the end, it’s all personal preferwarranty is up.
ence when it comes to which is better. Q: What is the best quality of camper on the market? We carry top leading brands including Grand Design, Alliance, and Keystone RV. These are all high quality trailers that go through predelivery inspections before leaving the factories. So depending on your personal preference and the specifications and features you’re looking for in an RV, you wouldn’t be going wrong choosing a camper from one of these lines.
Your preferred lifestyle will be a significant factor when determining an adequate budget. Here is an excellent way to calculate your in-
If your allowable spending amount isn’t enough to live out the retirement you had in mind, consider trimming the fat on unnecessary expenses. You can save a significant amount of money by selling vehicles that you rarely use. Instead of using your cash to license and maintain the extra car, put it in a high-interest return savings account. Many decide to sell their family home and downsize into something smaller and more affordable during their retirement. You can add the profit you make from selling the house toward your savings or pay off debts like credit cards and loans.
January 2021
Creating a Budget
Reduce Expenses
Learn how to make your money last and grow while you enjoy your golden years without returning to the workforce. When finding financial freedom during your retirement, you should analyze how much money you can afford to spend annually. The American Association for Retired Persons (AARP) urges seniors to consider these two factors about their income: • Your personal savings and investments. • Your guaranteed income from other sources. Once you find the right number for your spending allowance, adjust your expenses to fit the plan. Be cautious when making risky investments that can cripple your finances if they don’t pay off in your favor. Here are some other tips from the AARP to ensure that your retirement is secure.
come from savings and investments. • Add up the value of spendable assets and calculate both retirement and non-retirement savings. Sources should include bank accounts, mutual funds and current stocks. • Next, you should subtract a cash cushion that is intended to cover emergency expenses. • Finally, take four percent of the remaining capital. The balance you calculate will be the amount you can afford during the first year of retirement. Use this strategy in the upcoming years but remember to include an increase for inflation.
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While retirement should be an exciting journey, for some, financial stresses can negatively impact their lives. Even after a lifetime of responsibly saving and preparing for the future, unexpected issues can arise to thwart the bestlaid plans.
Make Retirement Money Last
As older adults approach retirement age, some turn to credit cards to cover unexpected expenses, leading to significant interest charges if they are not paid off in full. Some become stressed or discouraged to the point where bankruptcy feels like it’s the only option to gain financial freedom. Suppose you’re a senior citizen who finds it challenging to manage your money efficiently. In that case, credit counseling can be a practical step in the right direction. Learn more about the financial struggles that elder Americans face by learning these statistics reported by the National Council on Aging. • In 2016, 1.6% of senior households reported taking payday loans. • Twenty-one percent of married Social Security recipients and 43% of single recipients over the age of 65 depend on Social Security for 90% of their incomes. • The 2.1 million older adults on Supplemental Security Income receive, on average, just $435 each month. • One-third of senior households have no money left over each month or are in debt after meeting financial responsibilities. • About 3.5 million older adults are underwater on their mortgages and have no home equity. • In 2015, 2.9 million households with a senior over age 65 experienced food insecurity. • In 2016, about one in 33 senior households had a negative net worth. • Aging network professionals report that some seniors make trade-offs to save money in the short-term. An NCOA survey with these experts showed: • Twenty-three percent encounter seniors who forego needed home or auto repairs. • Fifteen percent say their patients participate in cutting pills. • Nearly 14% encounter seniors who skip meals. • Nearly 15% reported encountering seniors missing rent or mortgage payments. If you are a senior who is facing financial obstacles, or you know an aging loved one is struggling with their fiscal responsibilities, it’s vital to have an honest discussion. Create a plan to pay off debts and find financial freedom. Don’t be afraid to ask for help from family members or recruit a professional adviser’s help.
LIFE PLANNING
Senior Debt: By the Numbers
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January 2021
Learn an Instrument
You already know the importance of staying physically active to promote a healthier lifestyle. While exercise does stimulate parts of the brain, the National Association of Music Merchants reports that listening to or making tunes counteracts some seniors’ adverse health effects. The benefits include a more significant memory and delaying hearing loss while enhancing social awareness for aging Americans. You can take lessons to master an instrument to keep your mind sharp and improve agility. When choosing which tool you want to learn, consider one that you can play comfortably. Gear like a ukulele or banjo may be challenging for those with compromised finger joints. The small fretboard can be challenging to navigate. Visit your local music shop and play around with a few display models they have available. Sit down at a piano, hold a guitar or even bang the drums to see which instrument gives you satisfaction. After making your purchase, ask the experts if they offer lessons to help make the learning process more comfortable.
Guitar
Both acoustic and electric guitars offer unique abilities and sounds. The right type for you depends on the style of music you intend to learn. Acoustic models are more inex-
pensive investments. They require little gear, where an electric unit relies on an amplifier and power cables to work to its full potential. If you find the strings are too difficult to push down on the fretboard, ask the salesman if they can equip it with a lighter-gauge set before you make the purchase.
Piano
A study performed by the Frontiers in Psychology journal on aging adults reveals that seniors who learn to play piano experience: • Enhanced levels of cognitive function. • Slowed deterioration in the fight against the aging process. • Improved mood. • A boost in self-esteem. Learning the keyboard can be daunting, but an expert can show you the ropes, teach you scales and introduce you to learning and composing your favorite songs.
Drums
The organization Next Avenue suggests that playing the drums reduces anxiety and significantly lower blood pressure. If you fear that your neighbors won’t appreciate your new hobby, consider investing in an electric model. Most high-end systems work with headphones and produce accurate sounds comparable to a traditional setup.
Keep Documents Updated
After drafting your last will and testament, it’s essential to keep it updated as life circumstances change. For instance, events like divorce,
Stay on Top of Financial Literacy
While combatting cognitive decline isn’t always possible, you can challenge your mental health by vigorously educating yourself on financial documents. An excellent place to start is visiting your local library and reviewing books that advise on money saving strategies or investment tactics. Make it a group affair by discussing these topics with others in your age group to receive essential social benefits. You can also find educational resources from your credit union or financial institution. Take advantage of free workshops or seminars that they offer.
According to the American Seniors Housing Association, the national median cost for assisted living per month is about $4,000. For seniors who live in a private room in a nursing home, the price can increase to an average of $8,365 per month. If the costs for care are too far out of budget, it’s essential to ask for help from a governmental or federal agency. Here are a few programs you may be eligible for, as recommended by the American Association of Retired Persons. • Long-term care insurance. Speak with your insurance provider about adding this policy to your plan. Since it’s not widely available through Medicare or many private health insurance companies, you may have to find individual coverage. • Medicaid. The federal/state health care program is helpful to those with lower income and can sometimes assist with the cost of care. • The Department of Veterans Affairs. If you served time in the military, you might qualify for the Aid and Attendance benefit. It’s a supplemental pension that helps pay for assisted living or care for those who need help with daily activities.
Paying Out of Pocket
Whether you plan to receive home-based care or live in an assisted living facility, paying out of pocket can be expensive. Many seniors rely on their savings, pensions or retirement fund to help cover the costs. Other methods may include cashing out stocks and bonds or proceeds they earned from selling a home.
January 2021
It’s also more common for older adults to face severe health conditions like strokes or Alzheimer’s, which can significantly reduce the ability to make essential decisions. Prepare for the expected by getting your financial ducks in a row. Meet with an adviser to discuss creating a last will and choosing a power of attorney. In best-case scenarios, your mental health will remain vital. Still, strategically planning can make managing your fiscal matters more straightforward for your family members. Check out some tips to prepare yourself and your loved ones if you become unable to communicate your financial wishes.
marriage, the birth of a new child or a loved one’s death may require tweaks to your document. Ensure your estate plan includes those coming into your life and excluding people you no longer deemed eligible. It would be best if you also considered adjusting as you purchase new homes, land or automobiles. With a direct expectation of how you should distribute your belongings, family members can begin the grieving process without additional stress.
Many uncertainties arise in life; however, one instance that should be expected is age-related cognitive decline. According to the National Endowment for Financial Education, some Americans begin losing the capacity to make financial decisions around age 60.
Available Financing Help
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Prepare for Cognitive Decline
Fortunately, the fiscal strain doesn’t have to fall entirely on your shoulders, as many government programs are available for assistance. Another benefit to getting ahead of long-term care planning is choosing from more options regarding where you will stay. Some assisted-living communities require long waiting lists and may have limited availability if you are suddenly forced into a situation where you need care. When possible, begin searching for a facility or neighborhood while you’re in good health to make a valuable decision.
P l a n ning for long-term care later in life is not always a subject that seniors want to face. H o w e v e r, ensuring you have a strategy in place will alleviate your family members’ burden and guarantees that you are financially prepared for assisted living.
LIFE PLANNING
Paying for Long-Term Care
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January 2021
When to consider Hospice
Q: When is the right time for Hospice? When treatment focus shifts to comfort care and you determine that the patient’s life expectancy is six months or less, it is time for a hospice referral. Hospice care is not just for those patients who are close to death. In fact, the more time a patient can receive hospice care, the more benefit they and their family will receive. There are key indicators for when the choice of hospice is appropriate or close. Some of these may include: • Multiple and frequent falls • Excessive loss of weight • Multiple infections • Non healing wounds • Limited or no treatment options • Medications are no longer of assistance • Utilization of concentrated oxygen is no longer helping
• Life limiting or chronic illness has run its course Studies have shown that some people on hospice services actually live longer than projected. In these cases, the patient may remain on hospice with recertification by the hospice medical director. Q: How does hospice care benefit your loved one at the end of life? Often families are upset to hear this recommendation because, to them, it means that we are “giving up on Mom.” But what it really can mean is a shift of perspective, from curing Mom’s illness to providing comfort and quality
Life Planning Guide 2021 of life. • The hospice team will collaborate with other healthcare professionals to coordinate treatment and care. • Hospice will help build a support system to meet the needs of you, your family, and your loved one. • The hospice team will visit your loved one anywhere they call home. • Medications related to your loved one’s terminal illness will be covered. • Medical equipment will be provided if it’s related to your loved one’s terminal illness. • Hospice provides different levels of care to help manage your loved one’s symptoms. • Your loved one will have access to a comprehensive team that addresses his or her physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual needs. • Hospice will provide bereavement follow-up for you and your family.
An effective strategy in financial planning for seniors is utilizing a reverse mortgage loan
Avoiding Foreclosure
A certified expert will thoroughly explain the different types of reverse mortgages and discuss your responsibilities about repayment. Together, you will analyze the pros and cons based
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Before being approved for this type of loan, federal law requires that potential borrowers receive counseling by a HUD-approved agency.
Working with a Counselor
The NCOA states that reverse mortgage borrowers may still face foreclosure if they do not pay property taxes or insurance or efficiently maintain their home. Because there is a risk of losing the house, seniors must ensure that they are in good financial status before applying and avoid using the loan as a last resort. In 2015, new rules required that loan applicants must undergo a financial assessment by the lender. They analyze credit reports, payment history and current debts before agreeing to proceed with a reverse mortgage loan. It’s vital to be open and honest about your fiscal status during your counseling and listen to their expert advice. In addition to learning about short-term benefits, you must find out the longterm risks and responsibilities.
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on your current financial situation. The professional may bring up better options and benefits to help your finances before turning to a HECM plan.
An effective strategy in financial planning for seniors is utilizing a reverse mortgage loan. Also called a Home Equity Conversion Mortgage (HECM), the plan allows borrowers to cash out a portion of their home’s equity. The loan is different from traditional agreements as debtors won’t have to repay the debt until they no longer live in the property as a principal residence. As you consider whether this type of loan is right for you, it’s vital to remember that the repayment amount can be significant when it comes due. In some cases, seniors sign up for a reverse mortgage to use the funds for retirement needs and settle the balance after selling the home. To remain financially secure, avoid taking out the debt for non-necessity things like vacations or purchasing a vehicle. Before signing up for a reverse mortgage, consider these tips and facts from the National Council on Aging (NCOA.)
LIFE PLANNING
Consider a Reverse Mortgage
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January 2021
Budgeting for Retirement
Q: How Much Money Do You Need for Retirement? How much money will you need when you are ready to retire? That’s a tough question. For many people, it’s like asking, “How high is up?” However, retirement planning is a lifelong pursuit, and in order to achieve your retirement goals, you need to have a target in mind. Even if the goal changes over time, having an objective will tell you if your retirement planning is on track. Americans tend to underestimate their retirement needs. According to a survey by Natixis Investment Managers, two-thirds of those surveyed believe they have enough saved for retirement, or will have when the time comes. However, the average saver is only putting 6.8 percent of their income into a workplace retirement account such as a 401(k), and 27 percent of Americans have borrowed against their retirement funds and paid early withdrawal penalties. According to the Stanford Center on Longevity, you need to start saving between 10-15 percent of your income starting at age 25 if you plan to retire by 65.
benefits as part of his calculation. To get a general idea of what you need to save for retirement, you could use a retirement calculator. There are a number of online calculators that will provide some basic projections based on income, the amount you need to save, and when you plan to retire. Of course, these calculators will only give you a rough idea of how much you need to save. To accurately calculate how much money you need to retire, you need to do the math. Calculate exactly what you expect your monthly living expenses to be, including housing, healthcare, utilities, food, and anything else you can think of. Be realistic about your retirement budget and consider costs such as dining out, visiting the grandkids, or having extra cash if your children need it. Also consider adding in extra savings for unanticipated expenses, and rethink your healthcare costs; according to Fidelity Investments, a healthy 65-year-old couple can Q: How do you calculate your real financial needs expect to pay $280,000 in medical expenses that are for retirement? not covered by Medicare. When most people think about their retirement needs, their estimates are low. Their mistake is Q: What’s Your Retirement Plan? thinking that their cost of living will be substantially Before you can calculate what your monthly expenslower in retirement. They also fail to consider factors es, you have to make some determinations about such as inflation and the rise in the cost of living. Ac- your retirement budget. How do you want to live in cording to the Employee Benefit Research Institute, retirement? 37 percent of retirees found they underestimated re- Make a list of your retirement goals. This will help tirement costs, and 44 percent said their bills were you create a realistic retirement budget. For examhigher than anticipated. ple, when do you plan to retire? Many people want Most experts say that you will need 70-80 percent to retire at 55, but for most people, that means havof your present income to live comfortably in retire- ing the means to pay for four decades of living exment. The rationale is that when you retire, you will penses. According to Charles Farrell, you will need no longer be putting away that 10-15 percent of your 18 times your annual income, assuming a 4 percent income. Plus your taxes will be lower and you will be annual withdrawal rate adjusted for inflation—e.g., saving on costs such as commuting to work. if you earn $100,000 per year, you need retirement According to Charles Farrell, CEO of Northstar savings of $1.8 million. Investment Advisors and author of Your Mon- Also consider where you want to retire. If you are ey Ratios: 8 Simple Tools for Financial Security dreaming of a beach house in Hawaii, you have to at Every Stage of Life, you should plan to have calculate in the higher cost of living. If you plan to 12 times your annual income in savings if you move to a less expensive area, consider how that will want to retire at age 65—so if you were earning impact living expenses. For example, if you sell your $100,000 per year, you want $1.2 million in retire- home, will you be able to afford to buy a new home ment savings. Farrell has included Social Security or is renting a better option?
Life Planning Guide 2021 What about your retirement lifestyle? Do you plan to take up gardening or are you planning to travel? Maybe your dream is to spend more time playing golf. Whatever your plans, calculate in the costs of enjoying your retirement. You may plan to continue working into your 70s. More people are continuing to work rather than retiring. However, just because you continue to work doesn’t mean you will continue to earn at your present salary. According to Payscale, your peak earning years are in your 40s and 50s, and your earning power starts to drop as you reach retirement age. Q: How to Meet Your Retirement Goals? Now that you have drawn a comprehensive picture of your retirement, you can start developing a realistic retirement saving plan. If you save 15 percent of your income, will that be enough to achieve your goals? One popular way to determine your budget is the 50-30-20 rule—50 percent of your income for needs, 30 percent for wants, and 20 percent for savings. If you can save 20 percent for retirement, do you still expect a shortfall? As part of your retirement planning, be sure to use all the tax-advantaged savings tools available. Maximize your 401(k) retirement plan at work. Contribute to an individual retirement account (IRA). Use investments to earn more on your retirement savings. If it still looks like you aren’t saving enough, you can try to save on your monthly bills and put the additional savings into your retirement fund. You also should revisit your retirement plan and make adjustments for the anticipated cost of living. Creating a realistic retirement strategy is not easy, but you don’t have to do it by yourself. You can consult a financial advisor to help you make the most of your retirement savings. First State Community Bank has financial professionals on staff who specialize in retirement planning. Why not contact us today so we can help you get your retirement plan on track? Call today to be connected to one of our many expert team members! 573-756-4547
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January 2021
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LIFE PLANNING
Mental Health Makeover
Join a Gym
You don’t have to be a marathon runner or bodybuilder to engage in physical fitness at the gym. Health leaders’ exercise goals are manageable when you’re aiming to promote a healthier lifestyle. Check out these guidelines from the World Health Organization for adults that are 65 years and above. 1. Senior citizens should do at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic physical activity throughout the week. 2. Aerobic exercise should be performed in sets of at least 10 minute durations. 3. Older adults with low mobility should perform physical activity to enhance balance and prevent falls on three or more days per week. 4. Muscle-strengthening activities involving major muscle groups should be done on two or more days per week. 5. If health conditions hinder an older adult’s physical performance, they should be as active as their abilities and symptoms allow. Some of the benefits you should expect once you begin an active lifestyle include: • Lower rates of all-cause mortality, coronary heart disease, high blood pressure, stroke, typetwo diabetes, colon cancer and breast cancer. • Creates a biomarker profile that is more favorable for the prevention of cardiovascular disease.
• Exhibits higher levels of functional health, a lower risk of falling and better cognitive functions. Suppose this is the first time you have considered joining a gym. In that case, it may prove challenging to find a facility that offers age-friendly exercise programs. Here are some tips from the American Association of Retired Persons. Online Tools A great way to get started is to use the AgeFriendly Facilities and Services Locator, offered online by the AARP and International Council on Active Aging. The resource is provided to help increase awareness of the importance of physical activity and helpful institutions. When using the tool, you must enter your ZIP code into the search box. It will provide information about the available facilities. You will only see companies that encourage older adults to check out their programs. The business owners must sign a code of conduct in which it agrees to follow industry standards, provide age-specific screenings, and offer activity programs.
Bring a Friend
Once you settle on a gym, invite a friend to join you on your journey to better fitness. Committing to an exercise program can be difficult at first; having a partner will help you stay motivated to reach your goals.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, an estimated 20% of senior citizens experience mental health issues. Analyze the state of your emotional well-being and take steps to correct problems. Physical activity, a healthier diet and social interactions have been shown to improve some mental conditions. However, when these strategies do not seem to help, it’s crucial to talk to your medical provider for assistance. To better understand the risks that aging has on mental health, check out these statistics from the CDC. • Common conditions that senior citizens face include anxiety, cognitive impairment, depression and bipolar disorder. • Men aged 85 years or older have a suicide rate of 45.23% per 100,000, compared to the overall rates of 11.01 per 100,000 for all ages. • Critical contributors to senior depression is a lack of social and emotional support. Commit to becoming a healthier, happier you by giving yourself a mental health makeover.
Change Your Lifestyle
Harvard Health Publishing reports that mental health is closely connected with the quality and duration of sleep you get each night. Find a balance and create a slumber schedule that fits in with your daily routine and allows for sufficient rest. A healthy physical routine and diet can also have significant effects on better mental health. The National Alliance on Mental Illness urges us to remember these eight keys to motivate the beginning of an exercise regimen. • Health your mind and body. • Improve your self-esteem. • Exercise as a family. • Get motivated. • Change your perception. • Overcome obstacles. • Get FITT (Frequency, Intensity, Type and Time). • Set long-term goals. NAMI suggests that with proper exercise, symptoms like bad moods, stress, pain and chronic illnesses can be managed.
Forgive
The American Psychological Association says forgiveness is directly linked to mental health outcomes such as reduced anxiety, depression and major psychiatric disorders. Our physical health is also improved as there are lesser symptoms of chronic stress and lower mortality rates. Letting go of a grudge will require patience, learning and practice. It’s essential to dissuade the misconception that forgiveness is a sign of weakness and become more gracious for your overall health.
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January 2021
If your golden years have created a sense of boredom or a sedentary lifestyle, spice things up by mastering a new skill. Lifelong learning is a critical strategy to keep your mind sharp, maintain or improve cognitive functions and allows the body to remain active. When choosing a new hobby, select one that stimulates the brain. The National Institute on Aging suggests that stimulating the mind is shown to create something scientists call cognitive reserve. It is thought to help the brain become more adaptable while mental functions typically deter with age. Skills or hobbies that benefit the mind include volunteering, reading or playing games. Here are few ideas to try, as suggested by the United Methodist Homes group.
Learn a Stimulating Skill
Gardening
Planting and harvesting a garden are great activities that help senior citizens get regular exercise, lubricate joints and promote better mobility. When planning your plot, choose an area in your yard that receives ample sunlight and is near a water source. Visit a local nursery to discover
which types of fruits and vegetables can thrive in your region. If you live in a city with little spare yard space, consider building a makeshift green-
house indoors or building a small patio garden. If you already suffer from limited mobility, take the extra time to stretch before gardening. By doing so, you will limit the risks of injury, increase blood flow, improve balance while enhancing muscle control.
Reading and Writing
According to a study from the American Academy of Neurology, seniors who partake in reading and writing show signs of slower cognitive decline. You can make both activities social events by joining a book club or attending writing workshops.
Once you gain confidence in your ability to write, consider penning a biography that you can share with friends and family. They will enjoy the intimate look into your life, and you will benefit from revisiting happy memories from the past.
Volunteering
The Corporation for National and Community Service suggests that volunteering can improve seniors’ health and well-being. Inform nonprofit organizations about your desire to donate time to causes like helping homebound seniors or mentoring at-risk youth.
1136B N Desloge Dr. Desloge, MO 63601 vicky@vickycrocker.com Office: 573.327.8300 Fax: 573.327.8302
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January 2021
Technological advances of smartphones and tablets help us communicate easier, monitor our health and stay on top of our financial security. Senior citizens who may not be comfortable using the new technology can benefit from taking classes or asking younger family members to introduce them to smart machines. If you need a device, choosing between the options on the market may seem daunting. Visit your local electronic store to speak with an expert. Make sure to be clear with your expectations and how you intend to use the gadget. You will have to decide between one that requires a separate cellular network or tools that rely on a wireless internet signal. With your new smartphone in hand, check out how apps can make your life easier and more fulfilling.
Helpful Apps for Seniors
Health
While an app is not a substitute for regular wellness checks with your health provider, they can prove to be a supplemental monitor of how your body is operating. Some software uses your fingerprint to determine factors like your stress levels, blood sugar numbers and blood pressure. If you find yourself concerned with the results, it’s critical to reach out to your regular doctor. Another benefit that smartphone applications offer is making it easier to manage prescriptions. They can alert you when it’s time to take medicine, order a refill and help analyze your intake.
Finance
Social Networking
Get back in touch with family members and friends with apps that support video calls, chatting and social media. Consider making your own profile and communicating with people that you have had little contact with. When creating your page, list things like where you went to school, occupations and
request. In turn, you can use search keywords to find companions or loved ones from your past.
your maiden name, if it has changed. This information will make it easy for
those in the past to find your profile and initiate a conversation or send a friend
Find an app that monitors your spending behaviors, so you can adjust your habits and set saving’s goals. Some can link to your bank accounts and alert you when a deposit or withdrawal has been approved. Financial apps are great for running numbers on how you’re spending and can signal you when your accounts have been compromised or stolen.
A Friendly Reminder:
Schedule Your Annual Exam Today! Preventive care is an important part of your continued good health, and an annual physical is a great first step. Scheduling an annual exam allows your doctor to keep track of your health history, ensure you are up to date on vaccines and screenings, and often detect potentially serious health issues before they cause major problems.
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Family Practice
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Corinna DeFrancesco, APRN BC-FNP Family Nurse Practitioner
Julie Buford,
APRN BC-FNP Women’s Health & Family Nurse Practitioner
Nancy Lodge, M.D. Pediatrician
Martha McGraw, M.D. Internal Medicine/Pediatrics
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Family Practice
New Year’s Resolutions
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Control and Prevention, senior citizens should maintain updated im-
Keep your mind and body sharp by challenging yourself with mastering a new hobby or skill. Whether you commit to improving your physical fitness, take an art class or read more, resolve to spend the year improving your health and mental function.
Challenge Yourself
Update Your Vaccines
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It’s easy for personal time to get lost in the shuffle while balancing a family and career. Enjoy your senior years by taking measures to ensure relationships with your loved ones can grow. While it may be challenging to coordinate visits and trips with members who live far away, consider investing in a smartphone or tablet that supports video-chat software. Sometimes, a simple phone call can help reconnect people and encourage a positive bond.
Talk with a financial adviser for a detailed review of your fiscal standing. They can steer you toward beneficial investments, create a spending strategy to keep your retirement on track and offer advice on how to pay down debts. If you find it uncomfortable to trust an unfamiliar expert with your financial history, talk to your daily bank or credit center. They can likely refer you to a qualified professional or even offer inhouse service.
Spend More Time with Family
Visit a Financial Advisor
Ensuring your health is in peak condition is crucial as you age. Resolve to make an appointment with your doctor for a wellness check and become up to date on vaccines. According to the Centers for Disease
• Shingles. • Pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine which prevents meningitis and bloodstream infections. • A pneumococcal conjugate vaccine to protect against pneumonia. Your health expert will discuss a plan for the frequency of the vaccines once you are on schedule.
LIFE PLANNING
Resolve to kick-off 2021 with a commitment to become a better version of yourself. While the changes don’t have to be drastic, minor adjustments to your lifestyle can create significant advantages for your health, financial situation and emotional well-being. Take a look at some of the best New Year’s resolutions for senior citizens.
LIFE PLANNING
Financial Tips
January 2021
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If you are entering retirement age or in the planning stages as you approach the end of your working career, it’s crucial to be proactive with your finances. Ensuring you have enough to maintain your lifestyle and enjoy your time as a retiree takes strategizing many factors. Check out these valuable tips on transitioning successfully, as suggested by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation.
Talk with a Financial Expert
Be Aware of Elder Fraud
Being the victim of elder fraud can be financially crippling for those in retirement or nearly eligible. Protect your savings by educating yourself about risks and scams perpetrated against senior citizens. According to the National Council on Aging (NCOA), about 90% of all reported elder abuse cases were committed by an older person’s family members. Some of the ways seniors are taken advantage of: • Depleting a joint checking account. • Direct theft. • Promising but not delivering care in exchange for payment. Learn more about a few of the most common financial scams Americans are exposed to during their elder years, as reported by the NCOA.
Medicare/Health Insurance Scams
As seniors become eligible to receive Medicare benefits, criminals take advantage by impersonating representatives and asking for personal information. In some cases, fraudsters will even set up makeshift clinics and offer phony services. After retaining your financial data, they can erroneously bill Medicare and keep the money for themselves.
Counterfeit Prescription Drugs
Many find themselves scouring the internet for more affordable prices on their prescription medicines to save money. Buying prescription medications through questionable online sellers
not only may pose legal problems but comes with a greater risk: buying pills made from unsafe substances. Also, the illegally obtained medications may not be as advertised, leaving seniors without their life-saving prescriptions and risking severe health conditions.
Phone Scams
Across America, senior citizens make twice as many purchases over the phone than the national average. Scammers may pose as telemarketers with unbelievable deals, inquiries for a charitable donation or investment opportunities. They will generally ask an older adult to wire money to obtain the service they are promoting. Unfortunately, with no face-to-face interaction or paper trail, finding the culprits is nearly impossible after the scam has been realized. In many cases, con artists share info about people they deem as “easy targets” with other criminals, making you exposed to increased fraud attempts. Sweepstakes Scams Another scam to watch for is receiving notification that you are a sweepstakes or lottery winner. Scammers contact seniors with good news about a prize but require a payment to unlock their winnings. You may even receive a good-faith check as “proof.” Unfortunately, after a few days, the deposited check is found fraudulent by the bank, and the criminal has already received compensation.
While you may be good at saving money, are you aggressively increasing your nest egg? If not, an expert can show you about stocks, bonds and investments that are safe options that create significant results. When searching for an expert, research by asking loved ones for their experiences and meet with several potential advisors. Since discussing your finances can be incredibly personal, make sure you feel comfortable with the professional before recruiting them for help.
Review Your Credit Report
Even if you don’t plan on borrowing money, it’s good practice to review your credit report periodically. Look for inaccuracies regarding missed payments, delinquent accounts and settled debts that are still listed as active. You should correct any errors. In case you ever do stumble into a situation where a loan is required, you can ensure your score is accurate and free from errors.
Make Money with Hobbies You Enjoy
While you may be hesitant to return to the workforce, you may need supplemental income. Rather than jumping back into a nine-to-five, consider monetizing a hobby or passion that you enjoy. Think of things you’re good at, like writing, consulting or performing maintenance on homes or automobiles. You may not make a fortune right away, but the extra cash will help pay bills or increase your pocket change. Keep in mind that most earnings must be reported to the IRS, so taxes may apply to your revenue.
Use Senior Citizen Discounts
You have probably accepted price breaks on meals, groceries or movie tickets as a senior citizen. Did you know that your age may also qualify for price breaks for bank products and services? Visit a few local branches to find out about their policies for discounts and make a list to compare and find the most beneficial lender for your situation.
When it comes to anticipating what the future might be like, everyone has their own unique questions. We encourage you to visit www.presbyterianmanors.org and review our Frequently Asked Questions page. Or better yet, call our nearest community and start your own personal conversation with someone who will work closely with you. Whether you’re curious about the freedom our independent living lifestyle might provide or seeking information about how to handle the care needs of someone you love, we can help you ask the right questions and find the right answers that work best for you.
January 2021
Q: What’s the difference between assisted living & health care? As you begin to learn more about various Q: How do I start downsizing? If you think about it, you most likely spend issues that impact long-term care, you’ll the majority of your time in only a few rooms start hearing the phrase activities of daily of your house. So downsizing probably won’t living. This list can vary depending on the present any really big changes in the way you source you’re referencing, but generally currently live, other than giving you access these are the basic tasks we all need to be to our entire community of people, common able to handle in order to live independent areas, services and amenities you don’t cur- lives. Tasks such as dressing, bathing and rently have. A good way to start downsizing eating; more broadly, they might include is to choose the new residence you would being able to manage medications, prepare move into so you can start imagining — and meals, and maintain a clear awareness and
Q: How Does Medicare Part A help cover skilled nursing care? Many Medicare beneficiaries believe that Medicare Part A will cover any stay that they may need in a skilled nursing center. The fact is, there are a number of conditions that must be met for inpatient services in a skilled nursing center to be covered by Medicare Part A. In addition, a qualifying skilled nursing stay may involve co-payments, coinsurance and deductibles. Although these considerations can be complicated, at Presbyterian Manors, we are familiar with Medicare’s rules for these services and we’ll be happy to help you work through your own personal situation.
Q: How do I talk to my loved one about their health? We understand the idea of broaching this subject with a loved one can cause you a lot of anxiety. If you’re concerned about their health and safety, then starting the conversation is an important thing to do. Often, we find that their primary care doctor is an excellent resource for opening the subject. After all, they have a history of discussing private health matters with each other. We can also help begin this conversation. Regardless of how you get started, keep one idea in the forefront of your mind — important family discussions should be grounded in dignity, respect for each other and keeping an open mind. After all, the goal is for everyone to lead happier, healthier, more fulfilling lives.
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Q: Do I have to be Presbyterian to become a resident? Since 1949, Presbyterian Manors has provided quality retirement living for seniors of many Christian denominations, including Presbyterian, Methodist, Lutheran, Roman Catholic, Episcopal, and also some from non-Christian faiths. Presbyterian Manors of Mid-America’s mission is to provide quality senior services guided by Christian values.
measuring — how you’ll arrange the furniture you actually use now. As you might imagine, we’ve helped many, many people work through this issue, and we’ll be more than happy to personally work with you, too.
understanding of the world around us. Anyone who consistently needs a little help with some of these activities may benefit from the care level provided in an assisted living setting. Skilled nursing care, on the other hand, refers to a higher level of daily nursing and rehabilitative care that must be provided by trained medical professionals, including nurses, doctors and physical therapists.
Q: Why would I want to move to a retirement community now? Research on aging tells us that people who live in a community of friends live happier, healthier lives. Socialization, exercise, good nutrition and having the peace of mind that comes from knowing they have a secure plan for the future all contribute to overall wellness, which can improve anyone’s quality of life. Those who live independently at a senior living community benefit from all this, plus they’ve eliminated the burden of home maintenance while having more freedom and encouragement to pursue whatever makes them happy. Hobbies, travel, volunteering, family — whatever you love to do, living in a Presbyterian Manor senior living community gives you the opportunity to do more of it.
LIFE PLANNING
Find a community of friends at Presbyterian Manor
Life Planning Guide 2021
January 2021
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LIFE PLANNING