Retirement Living Sourcebook PA / DE / NJ edition | Winter-Spring 2025

Delivering Wellness and Comfort

with Dignity and Compassion

Brookside

Nationwide Healthcare Services has skilled nursing facilities in Delaware and Pennsylvania that provide exceptional short-term rehabilitation and long-term care. Each facility supports the physical, emotional and spiritual needs of their residents, while enhancing their overall health, well-being and quality of life.

Locations:

Regal Heights

Healthcare & Rehabilitation Center Abington, PA • 215-884-6776 brooksidehealthcare.com Laurel Square Healthcare &

Sterling

Healthcare & Rehabilitation Center Media, PA • 610-566-1400 sterlinghcr.com

Healthcare & Rehabilitation Center Hockessin, DE • 302-998-0181 regalheightshealthcare.com Regency Healthcare & Rehabilitation Center Wilmington, DE • 302-654-8400 regencyhcr.com

Polaris Healthcare & Rehabilitation Center

~ Spiritus Ventilator Unit ~ Milford, DE • 302-503-7650 polarishealthcarerehab.com

Center Philadelphia, PA • 215-224-9898 laurelsquarehealthcare.com

Philadelphia, PA • 215-727- 4450 renaissancehcr.com

A Spirit of C munity!

Mosaic is centered in the urban charm of Lancaster, PA — with nationally renowned restaurants, farmers markets, boutiques, art galleries, and live theater. Here, your daily adventure might take you to a historic market or modern food hall, a concert, a new art exhibit, or a baseball game. Mosaic o ers world-class service, premier amenities, and a one-of-a-kind location, along with the proven excellence of Willow Valley Communities — an innovative 55+ industry leader for 40 years. Explore the Mosaic lifestyle in the heart of Lancaster, PA at mosaiclancaster.com/guide.

Inquire by phone at 888.893.1423.

What’s Inside

PA / DE / NJ Edition — Winter/Spring 2025

Where Friendship and Fun Never Retire

Relationships are at the core of Morningside House Senior Living’s philosophy. By promoting three different but inherently connected types of relationships, Morningside is working to make senior living in Pennsylvania better…one senior at a time. Morningside is dedicated to restoring family relationships, promoting resident and caregiver relationships, and prioritizing relationships between employees and leadership.

Aging Life Care

An Aging Life Care Professional acts as a guide and advocate for families who are caring for older relatives or disabled adults. They can help families by providing assessments, monitoring, problem solving, and creating a plan of care including recommendations for housing or home care.

Housing Options

The senior living industry includes housing options that are perfect for every person and every situation. Start here to find the right option.

Aging in Place

Whether you are committed to remaining in your long-time family home or an amenity rich apartment community, there are plenty of options for aging in place. Home care options include companion care, home healthcare or skilled nursing care. Adult day care centers can also help with aging in place.

Welcome to Stress Free Living

When

When

becomes a little harder to manage on your own, DePaul Healthcare Assisted Living Communities offer all the comforts of home. Family owned and operated for over 20 yrs, we carry on a unique tradition of neighbors helping neighbors. We truly value our residents and take pleasure in helping with all things, big and small. We strive to help you live your life to the fullest Visit

Family owned and operated for over 20 years, we carry on a unique tradition of neighbors helping neighbors. We truly value our residents and take pleasure in helping with all things, big and small. We strive to help you live your life to the fullest.

What’s Inside

Plan to Age

I’m a planner. I like to make lists—and check them off. I like to know what my schedule looks like weeks—or even months—in advance. That’s just me. But I know that’s not for everyone.

The good news is whether you are an advance planner, or a person who just goes with the flow no matter where it goes, there are tools in Sourcebook to help you prepare for aging. After all, we can all plan to age.

Given the inevitability of aging, it is essential to spend time thinking about what you want your latter years to look like. Here are some helpful resources to help you get started whenever you are ready (or to help motivate the non-planner in your life).

1. Check out our article on decision making styles on page 11 .

2. Start making a financial plan for senior healthcare. Use our comprehensive questions to get ready for the future (see page 35).

3. Read this issue’s cover story on page 14 . Relationships are at the core of Morningside House’s plan to transform senior living. Morningside House communities help residents restore relationships with their families and build connections with caregivers. The communities also prioritize strong relationships between employees and leadership.

4. Finally, peruse our articles, checklists, and tables in every section to understand all the senior living options. Our articles explain all the options. Our

Whether you are an advance planner, or a person who just goes with the flow no matter where it goes, there are tools in Sourcebook to help you prepare for aging.

checklists will help you decide what is right for you. Finally, our tables offer comprehensive listings of local options, complete with amenities and prices. The housing section starts on page 46

We appreciate your trust and are committed to delivering quality information. Thank you for turning to us as you age and for supporting our Sourcebook!

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER lisa@proaging.com

What’s your plan?retirement

Your life. Your plan. Your community.

At SpiriTrust Lutheran®’s six Life Plan Communities, with both in-town settings and countryside locales, you can find continued growth opportunities with Spirit360TM, a lifestyle filled with flexibility and choice, a variety of sought-after services, and no maintenance. You’ll also secure a plan for any future care needs. Come discover a place where “planning” and “living” merge and allow for living life to the fullest!

• The Village at Gettysburg Gettysburg, PA | 717-334-4443

• The Village at Kelly Drive York, PA | 717-854-5010

• The Village at Luther Ridge Chambersburg, PA | 717-261-1251

• The Village at Shrewsbury Shrewsbury, PA | 717-235-5737

• The Village at Sprenkle Drive York, PA | 717-767-0579

• The Village at Utz Terrace Hanover, PA | 717-646-2420

1

2

Geographically target your search.

3

4

• Consider present and future healthcare needs and lifestyle preferences.

• Use the resources section to find professionals who can help. See page 32.

EVALUATE OPTIONS ESTABLISH NEEDS

• Learn about the wide variety of senior living options:

- Resources......................................................................... page 32

- Housing Options page 46

- Age In Place Options page 102

EXAMINE PROVIDERS

• Use our tables to find providers:

- Resources page 32

- Housing Providers page 46

- Age In Place Providers ........................................ page 104

EXPLORE

PROVIDERS

• Call and email options to get more information.

• Schedule site visits and meetings.

• Use the checklists in every section.

Find Your Decision-Making Style

Whether you plan out every minute or always wait until the last minute, there is still time to create a positive aging experience. Find your decision-making style and get ready to take the next—or the first—step.

Planners

Also known as “advance planners,” these older adults research alternatives and plan for retirement while they are still healthy. While everyone approaches decision making differently, planners tend to perform exhaustive research with a clear

goal in mind—whether that is aging in place or moving to a retirement community.

Many planners eventually become second—or third— generation retirement community residents. They saw first-hand what a good experience their parents or other loved ones had at a retirement community, and they work to ensure that they can enjoy the same experience.

Procrastinators

They are “not ready yet.” From their perspective, retirement is years—maybe even decades—away.

Many people put off retirement planning because they are overwhelmed by the magnitude of the decisions or because they simply do not want to deal with the realities of aging.

Procrastinators fall into two distinct categories:

• Reluctant Consenters – These procrastinators are pushed by loved ones to make a change. Often, a loved one notices a decline in the person’s physical or mental health or ability to function independently.

• Wake-up Call Decision Makers –

These individuals often abruptly change their living arrangements or quickly plan for their retirement following a near crisis. These events frequently do not lead to serious injuries, but they serve as the wake-up call that is necessary to push procrastinators to action. Often, this event is a fall.

Scramblers

Scramblers are procrastinators without intervention. Scramblers have never thought about senior living and never discussed a plan with their loved ones. Then, one day, everything changes.

After a serious injury or illness, scramblers are forced to plan during a crisis. Oftentimes, these older adults and their loved ones must make difficult and expensive choices under extreme duress.

It is not uncommon for the children of a scrambler to become planners. They have seen what happens when you wait, and they want to avoid becoming a burden on their own children.

Come Experience Quality Progressive Senior

PROCRASTINATORS Start planning today with our housing overview on page 46.

SCRAMBLERS Quickly compare local options in our comprehensive tables throughout the book.

starting on page 58.

Freedom & Independence to pursue a meaningful passion

At Tel Hai, we’re about living life to its fullest! Since moving to Tel Hai, resident Terry Feisler has not only continued — but expanded — her passion of nourishing those experiencing food insecurity through a meal-preparation partnership with a local food pantry. Enjoying the flexibility of retirement community living, Terry puts her expansive cottage kitchen to good use through continuing her love of cooking for others.

Choose a Life Plan Community that offers the freedom and independence to live life on your terms, plus the assurance of priority access to continuing care services if or when you need it.

It’s time to get started today! To schedule a visit, contact Marketing at (484) 796-4262 or online at telhai.org/visit

Tel Hai Retirement Community | 1200 Tel Hai Circle P.O. Box 190 | Honey Brook, PA 19344 | telhai.org

Where Friendship and Fun Never Retire!

What does an art studio, attending the high school musical, a chef demonstration, and a bike rally have in common?

They’re all happening at Morningside House Senior Living Communities in Pennsylvania!

In the last year, Morningside has entered the Pennsylvania senior living space with 4 newly acquired communities in the greater Philadelphia area. With locations in Exton, Blue Bell, Towamencin, and Collegeville, Morningside is bringing their signature touch to seniors in personal, memory, and respite care.

And just what is that signature touch, you ask? Let’s ask Kelly Mason, Morningside House’s President and CEO:

“Our company strives to transform the senior living experience for residents and their families, creating long-term

Morningside House Senior Living’s Elite Management Corporate team showing their team spirit.

relationships in a beautiful, fun, community-driven environment so residents get a new lease on life.”

Relationships are at the core of Morningside House’s philosophy. By promoting three different but inherently connected types of relationships, Morningside is working to make senior living in Pennsylvania better…one senior at a time.

Restoring Family Relationships

As family members will tell you, their loved one’s increased needs can quickly change their normal dynamic. By taking over the caretaker role, children and spouses lose important connections with their loved one as they become more concerned with their physical care— things like medication management, doctor appointments, meals, and home maintenance. Their relationships turn

into to-do lists. Have you taken your medicine? Are your clothes clean? What is in your fridge?

Meanwhile, the loved one no longer feels like a parent or equal spouse. They watch their independence slowly slip away as their well-meaning family takes over what they do, where they do it, and who they do it with. It’s a recipe for resentment on both sides, right when families need to be cherishing every moment they have together.

As members of the sandwich generation—people caring for both aging parents and their own children—the leaders at Morningside have experienced first-hand the push and pull of independence, safety, and worry. That’s why one of Morningside’s main goals is to restore the family dynamic for their residents. By providing the physical care that an aging loved one needs,

they can help families return to their original dynamic. The adult children and spouses can feel confident that their loved one is well-cared for, and the residents themselves can retain their dignity and independence. With special community events, private rooms for family gatherings, and open visiting hours, Morningside provides the space, care, and opportunities for families to make memories and enjoy each other.

Here’s what Rick G. said about his dad living at Morningside House of Collegeville:

“We moved our father to Morningside House of Collegevillewhat a huge difference! It was exactly what he needed to start enjoying his life again. Dad looks forward to their frequent outings, and he enjoys all of the activities they offer. [Personal

Continued on page 16

Morningside

Where Friendship and Fun... Never Retire!

Continued from page 15

care] is definitely an adjustment, but Morningside House of Collegeville has brought back the spark in dad’s eyes. We are all made to feel as if we are a part of their extended family.”

Promoting the Resident & Caregiver Relationship

Morningside understands that a senior living community is only as good as the care it provides for its residents. But care isn’t just physical—it’s spiritual and emotional, too. And one of the best ways to provide that holistic care is by fostering authentic, caring relationships between residents and caregivers.

The secret? Keeping caregivers around long enough to form those

relationships. Many senior living communities struggle to keep their facilities staffed, causing a dizzying revolving door for the residents. As soon as they get to know a caregiver, they’re gone. Of course, this makes it even harder for residents to feel settled and satisfied. Caregivers who stay, on the other hand, make it easy for residents to feel known, seen, and appreciated. Caregivers become not just people they can rely on, but authentic friends.

A great example of this is Morningside House of Exton. A resident’s family member, Victoria B., said:

“What I really loved most was the tenure of the team members. In any

business it’s rare to find employees that have started since the building was built, let alone 2 at Morningside House of Exton (Executive Director and Culinary member) both clocking over 20+ years of service. Not to mention, the numerous additional employees they have that have achieved 5, 10, and 15 years of service. To me that speaks volumes to the environment that Exton uniquely fosters.”

Prioritizing the Employee & Leadership Relationship

While the resident and caregiver relationship is crucial to helping take care of residents’ holistic health, it actually starts in another

ABOVE: Ellie helps prepare fresh strawberries at Morningside House of Blue Bell.

RIGHT: Morningside House of Exton resident, Roger, shows off his stellar dance moves at their annual Met Gala event.

“ This place is my home. It felt like home the moment I came to visit”

—Ausra T., Morningside House of Collegeville

relationship—the one between employees and the company itself. Not only has Morningside been around for 30 years, but it has something that most senior living companies don’t—a 100% female leadership team.

Morningside’s leadership leans into the special insights they bring to the table as women, daughters, and mothers. And at the top of their list is creating nurturing relationships with their more than 1200 employees. Many of the top leadership have started at the bottom and worked their way up in the company, and wanted to make sure to give current employees the same opportunities.

That’s why they offer chances for mentorship, for continuing education, and for career advancement for all of their employees.

What does this have to do with residents? Everything! When staff themselves feel seen and appreciated, they’re going to love where they work and stay loyal to the company. This leads to those long-serving staff who go above and beyond for residents for years and years to come.

Here’s what one happy Morningside House of Towamencin employee, Sandra C, said: “Starting at Morningside House of Towamencin in 2019, just before the world shut down, has been a wild ride. The support

from management and the corporate team is incredible—they’re always responsive and reliable, yet we have plenty of fun too. Our care staff truly shines, going above and beyond to deliver outstanding hospitality and care. What I love most is our team’s genuine support and encouragement. Every day is an adventure, whether I’m lending a listening ear or stepping up in an emergency.”

While they may be one of the newest companies in Pennsylvania senior living, Morningside House Senior Living is already building the relationships that help seniors and their families live better, happier, more fulfilled lives.

ABOVE: Sandra, the concierge at Morningside House of Towamencin sits for an afternoon chat with Annie and her dog Gracie.

Choosing a Community

6 Key Considerations

Financially, emotionally, and from a practical perspective, choosing a continuing care retirement community (CCRC, or “life plan” community) is a big decision. We strive to provide information and create resources that can help seniors make a more informed decision about whether this particular senior living option is right for them, and if so, which CCRC may be a good fit. After all, this is a choice that will impact your quality of life, health, happiness, and wallet for years to come.

To help make the CCRC decision process a little easier and more manageable, we have simplified the sometimes-overwhelming list of deciding factors into six key areas that consumers should evaluate when considering a CCRC.

Residences and amenities

When looking at a CCRC, among the easier things to assess are the physical campus and the various amenities provided by the community. I recommend you take several tours of the community’s residences,

considering different floorplans and features, and then contemplate what is important to you.

Because one of the principal reasons people opt for a CCRC is the continuum of care services they offer, be sure you look at both the independent living residences, as well as the assisted living portion of the community. You want to have confidence that you will feel at home once you are settled into your new surroundings.

There is also an assortment of amenities that will be provided by a CCRC, though these offerings can vary widely from community to community, from basic services to high-end conveniences. You will need to determine which are essential and which, in your opinion, are just niceto-haves.

Some amenities to look for may include: technology that helps residents stay safe as well as keep up with the times; community gardens, walking trails, and manicured grounds; transportation services and planned excursions; multiple dining options like cafés and bistro-style settings; a fitness

center, pool, golf course, and tennis or pickleball courts; and concierge-style services and move-in coordinators.

Contract details

Generally speaking, there are five common types of CCRC contracts offered among communities: Type A (lifecare), Type B (modified), Type C (fee-for-service), Rental, and Equity/ Co-op. And when it comes to entry fees (which almost all CCRCs require), some are refundable and others are not (or are only partly refundable).

Because they aren’t apples-toapples, comparing the cost of these various types of CCRC contracts, especially in different parts of the country, can be challenging. A lifecare contract in Seattle may be substantially more than a fee-forservice contract in Cleveland. Or, suppose one CCRC’s campus and facilities are older and it has fewer amenities than another community.

Bottomline: It is critical that you have a thorough understanding of which contract is right for your

Continued on page 22

Choosing a Community

Continued from page 20

particular situation, and which one you are signing.

Quality of care

CCRCs offer numerous attractive services and amenities for those living independently, but let’s keep sight of the primary reason for considering a CCRC: access to a continuum of care services. You want to be sure that the care services—both assisted living services as well as long-term skilled nursing care services within the onsite healthcare center—will be up to your expectations, should you one day need them.

You will want to do your due diligence research on the care provided by the CCRC, and there are a number of resources you can and should explore in order to do this. If the CCRC’s healthcare facility is Medicare-certified (as opposed to private pay only), you can check out their Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) rating. You also can reach out to your state’s long-term care ombudsman program to see if the CCRC has had any complaints filed.

It’s wise to do some shoe-leather investigating yourself as well by visiting the healthcare center and observing how residents are being cared for, if the facilities appear clean and wellmaintained, and if the staff appears to be content. Get some first-hand reviews from the CCRC’s residents to see what their impressions have been of the care they and their fellow residents have received.

Management/Operations

A CCRC is home to its residents, but it is also a business, and like most businesses, CCRCs are usually only as good as their administrators. You want to ensure the CCRC you are considering is well-managed and in good financial standing.

The financial viability of the community is important. Select a community that will be able to provide

residents the quality of care and services that they expect and have paid for into the future. Consider consulting with an accountant or financial professional who is wellversed in CCRC contracts and finances to ensure you will be getting what you expect and have paid for.

It’s also wise to understand the leadership structure of the community; get a feel for the expertise and experience brought by members of the board, and ask if residents are involved in a leadership capacity.

Financial impact

If you are considering a move to a CCRC, it’s crucial that you understand exactly how it will impact your personal finances in the long-term. Since cost and contract terms vary dramatically, it can be challenging to determine on your own if you will be able to afford the cost of a CCRC over the long-haul, particularly given that different CCRCs offer different types of residency contracts.

If you are comparing multiple communities, you want to be sure you are doing a true comparison of what each will cost, not just today but also in the future, so you can make an informed decision about which one is right for you.

Lifestyle and wellness

The concept of “lifestyle” relates to the factors that will impact your daily living experience within the community. It makes up the answer to the question, “Will I be happy and comfortable living here?” The CCRC you choose should foster your lifestyle preferences so that you can live the

life you want to live.

“Lifestyle” is a highly individualized concept, so the priorities of one person may be different from another person’s, but important lifestyle-related considerations may include aspects such as lifelong learning opportunities, dining choices and meal plan flexibility, community involvement and volunteer opportunities, size and location of the CCRC, and general vitality level of the residents who live there.

CCRCs are also touted for the many wellness benefits they offer their residents. In fact, a recent study found that CCRC residents are in fact happier and healthier than those who do not live in such a community. From fitness classes to continuing education to nutritious food offerings, a CCRC’s wellness programs should be designed to nurture residents’ minds, bodies, and spirts.

Many communities will allow you to stay on-site for a night or two to get a feel for what it’s like to live there and the lifestyle and wellness opportunities offered by the CCRC.

Making a decision

There are a variety of reasons making the choice to move to a CCRC more complex than most other senior living options. This is a BIG decision; there is no denying that! However, as you explore various CCRCs and consider different contract types, these six key factors above should remain top-of-mind.

Content provided with express written permission from myLifeSite: www.mylifesite.net

Neighbors become friends at Living Branches!

At Living Branches, spend more time doing what you like – with people you love.

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HarmonyAtKent.com (302) 505-5498 1435 E Lebanon Road Dover, DE

2530 Old County Road Newark DE

HarmonyAtHockessin.com (302) 504-8007 621 McGovern Rd, Hockessin, DE

Inclusive Senior Living

The generation that fought for the rights of people of color and lesbian, gay, bi-sexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ) individuals is aging. While the world has undoubtedly become more inclusive since their youth, there is still work to be done.

To serve all older adults, senior living communities and service providers need to be cognizant of and dedicated to promoting diversity and inclusion. Increasingly, senior living providers are acknowledging the diversity of their staff and clients. These forward thinking providers are working to make sure that everyone is comfortable and respected. Our seniors and senior living providers—all of them—deserve no less.

Positive Aging Sourcebook is dedicated to helping senior living providers promote diversity and inclusion. We have held numerous digital discussions on equity, inclusion and diversity in senior living to advance acceptance and expand understanding. View past conversations or join future discussions at retirementlivingsourcebook.com/ digital-discussions.

LGBTQ Seniors

Many of the LGBTQ seniors who are seeking senior living services today are the same individuals who struggled to come out to friends, families, and employers for decades because of fear of discrimination.

Now, as they face retirement living decisions, they are again fearful that their lifestyle will lead to discrimination or the outright refusal of services.

Unlike other seniors, LGBTQ older adults are less likely to have children to help them in their later years. They may also be estranged from their families. This demographic is far more likely to rely solely on a partner or close friend for their care as they age.

In 2010, a groundbreaking documentary film addressed the dilemmas of LGBTQ seniors. Gen Silent profiles six LGBTQ seniors in the Boston area. Many of them are struggling with the decision to hide their sexuality to survive the long-term health care system.

Unfortunately, the seniors profiled in Gen Silent are not isolated examples. A 2018 analysis by University of Washington professor Karen Fredriksen-Goldsen concluded that unique prevention and intervention strategies needed to be developed to address the needs of queer seniors. The study noted that the number of LGBTQ seniors is expected to double to more than four million by 2030.

During a recent Positive Aging digital discussion, Jennifer Marie Brown, the community relations manager at Seabury Resources for Aging, explained the historical context that drives distrust among LGBTQ seniors. “During McCarthyism, people lost their jobs, people were hounded out of a

lot of federal government positions, because they were gay and lesbians. And it made them even more closeted, more guarded, more suspect of being out or public about who they were,” she said.

Brown continued, “As we provide services for 80-year-olds, 85-yearolds, they are very leery of the consequences of being out in a retirement community or with home health care providers. They lived a life in which it was not okay to be queer in the workplace, was not okay to be queer in a house of worship, was not okay to be queer in the PTA, was not okay to be queer anywhere.”

Brown encouraged local senior care providers to seek out training and enrichment opportunities to better serve LGBTQ seniors. Some communities, including Seabury and Iona, have custom programs to serve this population. Additionally, SAGECare is an independent organization that provides training and consultation on LGBTQ aging issues to service providers.

Racism in Senior Living

When thinking of senior living challenges, most people focus on eliminating ageism. However, racism is a significant issue in senior living—just as it is throughout our society. Equity, inclusion and diversity are important topics that senior living providers must confront directly.

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Inclusive Senior Living

Continued from page 26

Historically, people of color have underutilized senior living services. Many senior living communities have completely homogenous populations— often all white. For senior living service providers, systemic racism and its corresponding economic disparities may prevent people of color from accessing services. There are also cultural barriers to access. Even for hospice services, which are primarily covered by Medicare and Medicaid, a recent study of utilization by race revealed that 83 percent of hospice patients in the United States are Caucasians, while African Americans represent only 8 percent, followed by Hispanics at 6.4 percent, Asians at 2 percent and Native Americans at .05 percent. People of color do not use senior living services like they could— or should.

Hiring Practices

Beyond utilization, one of the biggest challenges facing senior living providers seeking to promote diversity and inclusion is diversity in hiring. In senior living communities and home care agencies, frontline caregivers are disproportionately people of color, while clients are disproportionately white.

Companies that are not already doing so need to actively recruit and promote people of color. Frontline caregivers should be made aware of opportunities and paths for promotion. They should be encouraged to recruit other people like them to work in the organization. They should also see themselves reflected in the management.

To improve hiring practices, senior living providers can turn to local colleges. “You’ve all heard of Howard University. You’ve all heard of Morgan State. You’ve all heard of UMBC. So if you’re not doing active recruiting in those locations, then you’re not looking hard enough,” explained Cordell Martin, community relations coordinator at Tribute at Melford, an assisted living and memory care community in Bowie, Md, during a

digital discussion. “I’m talking about bringing in talented people. I’m not talking about bringing in someone just so you can say you’ve fulfilled a quota, because that’s often how it’s presented.”

Discrimination by Clients

During Positive Aging’s digital discussion, many of the panel members and the participants highlighted discrimination by clients, especially in the home care sector. Many caregivers, particularly those who are from foreign countries, face discrimination from clients.

Caregivers may be mistreated or misjudged simply based on racist ideas. Home care workers and owners alike reported clients asking for caregivers who “didn’t have accents”

or who “looked like them.”

Sambal Johnson, a caregiver with HomeCare.com, relayed her personal experience. “I’ve been discriminated against because of my name. They assume that there will be a language barrier or that I don’t know what I’m doing. But once you get in and you understand them and explain yourself to them, the majority of the people are understanding and it works out.”

Companies have to support and defend their workers—to the point of removing them from uncomfortable or unsafe situations. Todd Walrath, the CEO of HomeCare.com, spoke of how he supports his frontline workers by ensuring that they know they can always refuse a client if they feel they are in danger or being discriminated against. With clients, Walrath tries to keep the focus on the qualifications of

the caregiver, instead of their race or ethnicity.

Industry Actions

To truly change the make-up of senior living, diversity and inclusion must become a way of life for companies. Dr. Jeffrey Ash the associate dean for diversity and inclusion at the University of Maryland School of Nursing explained that the single best way to encourage diversity in hiring practices and inclusion in employee experiences is to attach them to metrics. Dr. Ash encourages companies to add questions about diversity and discrimination to their employee and client reviews and to track the responses.

To help the health care industry as a whole better address these issues, HomeCare.com established a coalition called Nurses Against Racism. The mission of the group is to unite healthcare providers to make meaningful change towards racial equity in the nursing industry. For more information or to get involved, visit NursesAgainstRacism.com.

Capital Caring Health, a nonprofit provider of advanced illness, home and hospice care services throughout the Washington metropolitan area, recently established The Center for Equity, Inclusion, and Diversity to serve more minority elders who need hospice care, as well as those who need traditional medical care to remain independent in their homes.

Finally, Broadmead, a senior living community near Baltimore, is engaging in a coordinated effort to recruit a more diverse resident population.

Led by Jennifer Jimenez Maraña, the community’s director of diversity and inclusion, the effort focuses on promoting social justice by ensuring that the population of residents is as diverse as the caregivers.

While none of these efforts can eliminate systemic racism or homophobia in the senior living sector, they are small and important steps in the right direction. They can also serve as a model for larger efforts to ensure that senior living services truly serve all seniors and that the industry presents real opportunities for care professionals. If we advance a system that serves all, we will all be better served.

Experience Pennswood

www.chg.org

PHILADELPHIA

Immaculate Mary Center For Rehabilitation & Healthcare 2990 Holme Avenue Philadelphia, PA 19136

215-335-2100

IMrehab.org

St. Martha Center

For Rehabilitation & Healthcare 470 Manor Avenue Downingtown, PA 19335

610-873-8490

STMrehab.org

CHESTER COUNTY

DELAWARE COUNTY

St. Francis Center For Rehabilitation & Healthcare 1412 Lansdowne Avenue Darby, PA 19023 484-493-7111 SFrehab.org

St. Martha Villa For Independent & Retirement Living 490 Manor Avenue Downingtown, PA 19335 610-873-5300

STMrehab.org

MONTGOMERY COUNTY

St. Mary Center

For Rehabilitation & Healthcare 701 Lansdale Avenue

Lansdale, PA 19446

215-368-0900

SMMrehab.org

St. Mary Villa For Independent & Retirement Living 701 Lansdale Avenue Lansdale, PA 19446 215-368-0900

SMMrehab.org

Decidedly Social. Decidedly Different.

Whenever prospective residents tour our continuing care retirement community, the first thing they notice is the uncommonly friendly atmosphere at Dunwoody Village, the way that staff and residents alike greet them with smiles and genuine curiosity. The second thing they notice is that our 83 landscaped acres were designed to accommodate every lifestyle from fitness fanatics, to art lovers, to card sharks, to singing groups. Making new friends in a new neighborhood is easy when you can bond over shared interests and bring your furry friends along, too. No matter who you are, you’ll be welcomed at Dunwoody. Contact us today to find out more.

Financial Planning for Senior Healthcare

Evaluate needs and calculate options

Few things are guaranteed in the game of life. Healthcare costs just might be one of them. At some point, most people will face ongoing and potentially large healthcare costs. The odds increase dramatically with age. Now is the time to prepare for healthcare costs as you age.

LIFESTYLE

Do you have a plan to get to the store and doctor appointments when you stop driving?

Have you considered having services come to your home when you stop driving?

Do you know how your health conditions will progress with age?

Have you thought about staying in your home versus moving elsewhere as you age?

Do you know the senior services support organizations in your community?

Do you have a support system in place if you are caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s Disease or another form of dementia?

CASH FLOW

Do you have social security and if so, do you know your monthly income?

Do you have a pension and if so, do you know your benefit income?

Do you understand social security and pension survivor benefits?

Do you know the direct and indirect costs of your health insurance?

Are you saving to cover for emergency healthcare costs?

Do you understand what Medicare will and will not pay for?

Do you understand the three qualification areas to apply for Medicaid financial assistance?

LONG TERM CARE INSURANCE (LTCI) CONTRACTS

Do you know how your monthly income will change if one spouse dies?

TAXES

Do you know the kinds of expenses that could be considered deductible when faced with a chronic illness?

Have you consulted with your tax preparer to optimize deductions relating to increased healthcare costs for this year?

Do you know how the SECURE Act affects your retirement?

FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS

Do you work with a financial professional?

Do you know when to change your investment strategy (cash, CDs, bonds, stocks, etc.) based on an increase in healthcare costs?

Have you considered if it still makes sense to have accounts at multiple financial institutions versus simplifying or consolidating?

Can family members access and understand your accounts to help when needed?

Do you understand what your LTCI policy will and will not pay for?

Do you know if your policy has a maximum payout?

Do you know your options if asked to pay a higher premium?

Do you know the criteria for submitting a claim?

Are you aware of the actual cost of care compared to your LTCI reimbursement amount?

PLANNING WHERE TO LIVE

Do you plan to stay in the same area, move closer to family, or move to warmer weather?

If you want to age in place in your home, have you had your home assessed by a healthcare professional for livability?

If you are planning to work with an agency to provide help in the home, have you researched the hourly/daily fee?

If you are considering moving to a retirement community, do you have an idea of the services offered and pricing models?

Are you or your loved one in need of 24-hour care?

Are you familiar with all of the senior housing options?

IS NOT AN

What do you want your retirement to look like? At Senior Supportive Services, Inc., business for over 30 years, we take the time to address what is typically beyond the services. Your lifestyle objectives should be an integral part of your Retirement Planning.

We specialize in helping you decide whether "To Move or Not to Move?". We will which community best fits your Lifestyle and Financial Resources. We will assist choose to ''Age in Place".

Our Retirement Specialists review your assets, investments, health benefits, long term tax information and budget, as well as other areas of importance to you and your family. personalized plan which will fund your retirement goals. A sound retirement plan guaranteed income that you can never outlive, will result in your complete peace of

Together, our team will deliver a program that is a powerful collaboration resulting financially secure retirement strategy in a comfortable environment in order for well-deserved New Beginning!

Find Local Resources

Call the Eldercare Locator: 1-800-677-1116

The National Aging Network, headed by the Administration on Aging, includes 56 state Agencies on Aging, 622 Area Agencies on Aging, and more than 260 Native American aging programs. All individuals age 60 and older are eligible for services through this network. Most services are delivered on the local level by Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs).

AAAs are public or private nonprofit agencies designated by a state to address the needs and concerns of all older persons at the regional and local levels. AAAs operate in specific service areas that may include a city, county, or multicounty districts. AAA is a general

Visit: eldercare.gov

term—names of local AAAs may vary.

AAAs coordinate and offer services that help older adults remain in their homes or stay engaged in the community. Services vary widely, but a list of typical offerings is included below. By making a range of supports available, AAAs make it possible for older individuals to choose the services and living arrangements that suit them best.

Email: eldercarelocator@USAging.org

To help individuals find services, the federal government established the Eldercare Locator. The Eldercare Locator is a nationwide service that connects older Americans and their caregivers with trustworthy local support resources.

See the table with information for local AAAs on the following page.

Older adults and caregivers should tap into these federal, state and local resources to get the help they need to age well or to care for an aging loved one.

Services Provided by Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs)

• Adult Day Care is available for individuals who need daytime supervision.

• Case Management Services are conducted by professionals who can assess needs and arrange for services to encourage continued independence.

• Elder Abuse Prevention Programs provide investigative services and intervention in cases of abuse.

• Financial Assistance and benefit counseling is conducted by professionals.

• Home Health Services provide needed care in the home environment.

• Home Repair Programs help older adults complete needed repairs to avoid major problems.

• Home Modification Programs provide renovations to make the home safer and more secure for individuals who choose to age in place.

• Legal Assistance is available for individuals aged 60 and older with legal problems involving government benefits, tenant rights and consumer issues.

• Nutrition Services Programs provide home delivered meals to homebound individuals and congregate meals in specified locations in the community.

• Respite Care provides caregivers with a much needed break from the constant care and supervision of their elderly loved one.

• Senior Centers offer educational, recreational and social activities for older adults.

• Transportation Programs can provide doorto-door transit for individuals who do not have private transportation and/or cannot use public transportation.

To find services near you, visit n4a.org

Understand Aging Life Care™

Acting as guides and advocates for families

Aging Life Care / geriatric care management is a holistic, clientcentered approach to caring for older adults or others facing ongoing health challenges.

What is an Aging Life Care Professional?

An Aging Life Care Professional™, also known as a geriatric care manager, is a health and human services specialist who acts as a guide and advocate for families who are caring for older relatives or disabled adults. The Aging Life Care Professional is educated and experienced in any of several fields related to aging life care / care management, including, but not limited to gerontology, nursing, social work, psychology or occupational therapy.

The Aging Life Care Professional assists clients in attaining their maximum functional potential. The individual’s independence is encouraged, while safety and security concerns are also addressed. Aging Life Care Professionals have extensive knowledge about the costs, quality and availability of resources in their communities.

Aging Life Care Professionals are members of the Aging Life Care Association™ (ALCA) and differ

from Patient Advocates, Senior Advisors, Senior Navigators and Elder Advocates. ALCA members must meet the stringent education, experience and certification requirements of the organization, and all members are required to adhere to a strict code of ethics and standards of practice.

What Services do Aging Life Care Professionals Provide?

Aging Life Care Professionals provide guidance to help families ensure quality care and an optimal life for those they love through:

• Assessment and monitoring

• Planning and problem-solving

• Education and advocacy

• Family caregiver coaching

• Long-distance caregiving

Aging Life Care Professionals are engaged to assist in a variety of areas, such as:

• Housing – helping families evaluate and select the appropriate level of housing or residential options.

• Home care services – determining the types of services that are right

Continued on page 36

www.brandywineeldercare.com/about/what-we-do

Understanding ...

Continued from page 35

a client and assisting the family to engage and monitor those services.

• Medical management – attending doctor appointments; facilitating communication between doctor, client and family; and if appropriate, monitoring client’s adherence to medical orders and instructions.

• Communication – keeping family members and professionals informed as to the well-being and changing needs of the client.

• Social activities – providing opportunities for the client to engage in social, recreational or cultural activities that enrich quality of life.

• Legal – referring to or consulting with an elder law attorney; providing expert opinions for courts in determining level of care.

• Financial – may include reviewing or overseeing bill paying or consulting with an accountant or client’s Power of Attorney.

• Entitlements – providing information on Federal and state entitlements; connecting families to local programs.

• Safety and security – monitoring the client at home; recommending technologies to add to security or safety; observing changes and potential risks of exploitation or abuse.

• Long-distance care –coordinating the care of a loved one for families that live at a distance, including crisis management. Local, cost-effective resources are identified and engaged as needed. A care plan tailored for each individual’s circumstances is prepared after a comprehensive assessment.

How do you know that you need an Aging Life Care Professional? You may need an Aging Life Care Professional if:

• The person you are caring for has limited or no family support.

• The person you are caring for has multiple medical or psychological issues.

• The person you are caring for is unable to live safely in his/her current environment.

• Your family is either “burned out” or confused about care solutions.

• Your family has limited time and/or expertise in dealing with your loved ones’ chronic care needs.

• Your family is at odds regarding care decisions.

• The person you are caring for is confused about his/her own financial and/or legal situation.

• Your family needs education and/or direction in dealing with behaviors associated with dementia.

• You live at a distance from your loved one.

Thank you to the Aging Life Care Association™ for permission to share this information. You may learn more about Aging Life Care™ at aginglifecare.org.

• Your family has just become involved with helping the individual and needs direction about available services.

Find an Aging Life Care Professional

What is your area of expertise?

How long have you been working with senior clients?

What certifications or licenses do you have?

What are your professional credentials?

What special training have you received?

Can you provide examples of other clients you have worked with who had situations similar to mine?

Do you work with other professionals to provide referrals if needed?

Are you available for emergencies?

What are your fees? (These should be provided to the consumer/responsible party in writing prior to services starting.)

Can you provide me with references?

What resources will it take to handle this situation?

Are there any alternative courses of action?

What are the advantages and disadvantages of each alternative?

Who will be working with you?

How many professionals may be involved? What about off-hours and backup?

How are fees computed?

How are travel time and mileage handled?

How are services terminated?

How often do you bill?

Are there additional out-of-pocket fees?

5 Things an Aging Life Care Professional™ Did Today

by Heidi L. Garvis, BS, CMC® (Certified Care Manager), Aging Life Care

Here’s what an Aging Life Care™ Professional (aka Geriatric Care Manager) did for you today:

1. Listened. She* listened to your concerns and began to assess your short-term and long-term needs with regard to caring for a parent. She heard that your loved one wants to age in place, but the house, the finances and her ability to care for herself has diminished.

2. Asked questions. She asked about important aspects of your life and the life of an aging loved one. How has quality of life diminished? What worries you the most? What happens when you talk about your concerns to your loved one? What motivates him/her? Who has Power of Attorney? What is the medical history? What is the financial picture?

3. Created a mutually agreeable plan of care. The Aging Life Care Professional assessed the risks and needs and created a dynamic plan of care to solve problems and monitor outcomes. She helped you select a home care company. She did a home

safety evaluation and coordinated changes. She tracked medical appointments and made sure medication management was in place. She advised you on senior living communities if desired. She made sure your loved one had purposeful and enjoyable things to do each day.

4. Gathered information and created an emergency file. She put all the pieces of information together (doctors, medications, medical history, do not resuscitate (DNR) order, family contacts, legal contacts and other documents) and told you that she would be there for you and your loved one 24/7 when they go to the doctor or hospital. She was there when you went on vacation, so you could enjoy a break.

5. Became the neutral party. She helped you and your loved one meet common goals. And most importantly, she helped you be the daughter,** instead of a harried, potentially short-tempered caregiver.

* Or He **Or Son

Your Solution for Peace of Mind

“The help you have given us can only be described as priceless. If I have any regret, it is in not having made the connection earlier.” –W.D.R. JR., CLIENT’S SON

Our highly qualified and trained professionals can assist clients in working with their special needs trusts by monitoring health care, providing wage assessment proposals, assuring quality of life, obtaining relevant entitlements, and supporting client compliance.

MID-ATLANTIC CHAPTER

Mid-Atlantic Chapter

Aging Life Care Professionals®The Experts in Aging Well

We are grateful to the Retirement Living Sourcebook for continuing to be a champion for older adults by connecting them to the resources and services they need to thrive as they age. As Aging Life Care Professionals, we provide seniors with a personalized tailored plan that integrates resources and other pertinent professionals into your care plan team. Integrated planning relies upon professionals who understand the health care system and you. Healthcare and senior care can be confusing, overwhelming, and ambiguous. Our organization of health and human service professionals will provide you with advocacy, guidance, and resources by integrating these services into a meaningful plan designed to optimize your health and wellbeing.

Because many of us have diverse backgrounds, we work in concert with one another to address your concerns across several health care fields. We adhere to a high code of ethics and commitment to the highest standards of care for our clients. We answer only to our clients’ best interest for their best possible quality of life. As the President of the Mid-Atlantic Chapter, I am proud to serve an organization that has upheld the gold standard of Care Management since 1986. I look forward to the future and to serving the Mid-Atlantic chapter and my community. Visit us at midatlanticalca.org. We look forward to working with you.

Rebecca Roskey-Brunner BSN, RN, CEN, CMC President

Aging Life Care™ Association Mid-Atlantic Chapter

ADVANCED PROFESSIONAL MEMBER

Advanced Professional Members must:

• Hold a Bachelor’s, Master’s or Ph.D. with at least one degree in a field related to Aging Life Care/ care management (i.e. counseling, gerontology, mental health, nursing, occupational therapy, physical therapy, psychology or social work);

• Be primarily engaged in a paid position in the direct practice, administration or supervision of clientcentered services to the elderly and their families;

• Have two years of post-degree supervised experience in a paid position in the field of Aging Life Care/care management within the last ten years; and

• Hold a current ALCA-approved certification.

Professionals can also qualify for the Advanced Membership level if they hold a Bachelor’s, Master’s or Ph.D. degree in a field unrelated to Aging Life Care/care

management. However, these members must meet all of the other criteria outlined above, and they must have three years of post-degree supervised experience in the field of Aging Life Care/care management within the last ten years.

The Advanced Professional level also includes members designated as Fellows of the Leadership Academy.

PROFESSIONAL

MEMBER

Professional Members must:

• Hold an Associate’s, Bachelor’s, Master’s or Ph.D. degree with at least one degree held in a field related to Aging Life Care/care management (i.e. counseling, gerontology, mental health, nursing, occupational therapy, physical therapy, psychology or social work);

• Be primarily engaged in a paid position in the direct practice, administration or supervision of client-centered

Continued on page 41

DELAWARE

Susan Hammond Decisions 4 Life, LLC (302) 528-3789 decisions4life.com

Ellen Platt 37 The Option Group (302) 858-6449 theoptiongroup.net

Helena Wallace 37 The Option Group (302) 858-6449 theoptiongroup.net

Suzanne Wiesenberg Senior Care Management Partners, LLC (484) 459-1342

PENNSYLVANIA

Catherine Abreu Navita Health Advocates, LLC (908) 528-3977 navitahealth.com

Kelly Campbell Cardinal Lifecare Planning (724) 487-0519 cardinallifecare.com

Rhiann Condon A New Beginning Counseling Service, LLC (724) 504-1281

Aimee Lynn Curry SAGE Care Advisors (610) 212-3990 sagecareadvisors.com

Bonney Dahlgren DosSantos Kith Elder Care (215) 391-0038 kithcare.com

Dana D’Amico 38

Janice Duffin

Laura Enslen

Kimberley Gately

Lisa Grillo Catholic Social Services (610) 284-0497

Aimee Gustitis Good Caregiver, LLC (610) 724-8950 goodcaregiver.net

Patricia Hanson IKOR of Western PA (412) 275-0345 ikorofwpa.com

Beverly

Joie 38 Complete Care Strategies (610) 265-4300 completecarestrategies.com AVP

Sandra Katz Sandra Katz (610) 664-0565 sckphilly522@gmail.com PRO

Erin Kershaw 35 Brandywine Elder Care Mgmt, LLC (888) 721-1975 BrandywineECM.com AVP

Virginia Kirk 38 Complete Care Strategies (610) 389-8841 completecarestrategies.com PRO

Deborah Klock DLK Managed Care Solutions, Inc. (610) 631-5689 AVP

Kiralie Konde Generation Crossroads, LLC (267) 546-7551 generationcrossroads.com AVP

Louise Kostick Senior Solutions (610) 258-0700 senior-solutions.com AVP

Gary Kozick Gary Kozick Elder Care Solutions, LLC (215) 510-8901 garykozick.com

Joan Krechmer Points of Life Services LLC (717) 880-9420 jkkrechmer@gmail.com

Theresa Kuhar IKOR of Eastern Pennsylvania (267) 530-1709 ikorepa.com

Catherine Lain

C. Barbara LeMunyon Elder Care Advocacy Services, Inc. (215) 357-7200 ecasinc.org AVP

Wendy Liebling Liebling Elder Care (610) 733-1473 AVP

Barbara Lyon BAL Eldercare Management, LLC (623) 824-9799

Dolores Tracey Magid

Carole Mancini

Newman Elder Law (215) 534-3612 newmanelderlaw.com

Peggy McFarland Senior Management Services (800) 253-9236 smseldercare.com

Marian Mullahy

Chestnut Hill Hospital, S.B.H.U. (610) 585-2709 chestnuthill.towerhealth.org

MID-ATLANTIC CHAPTER

Mid-Atlantic Chapter

PENNSYLVANIA

Sandy Myers 35 Brandywine Elder Care Mgmt, LLC (888) 721-1975 BrandywineECM.com AVP

Kristy Neff Holistic Aging (412) 486-6677 holisticaging.com AVP

Michael Newell LifeSpan Care Management LLC (800) 808-9844 LifeSpanCM.com AVP

Sonali (Soni) Pahade Aging Advisors (609) 815-5959 agingadvisors.com AVP

Jami Pazuchanics Optimal Aging Advisors, LLC (724) 470-7517 optimalagingadvisors.com AVP

Ellen Platt 37 The Option Group (215) 896-6756 theoptiongroup.net AVP

Holly Reigh A Ray of Care, LLC (814) 826-3926 arayofcare.com ASC

Heather Reilly Waverly Connect (267)521-4025 WaverlyConnect.com AVP

C. Denise Rissell Patient Care Advocates (610) 856-1050 patientcareadvocates.com AVP

Katherine Rosenblatt (518) 366-6424 Krosenblatt218@gmail.com PRO

Rebecca Roskey-Brunner 38 Complete Care Strategies (610) 265-4300 completecarestrategies.com AVP

Jodi Rush-Goldman 35 Brandywine Elder Care Mgmt, LLC (888) 721-1975 BrandywineECM.com AVP

Mindy Shaw (724) 787-0698 AVP

Jayma Sitton Whole Senior Care, LLC (267) 997-8866 wholeseniorcare.com AVP

Cynthia Smith A New Beginning Counseling Service, LLC (724) 504-1281 AVP

Janelle Solomon Elevation Home Care Agency (267) 281-7755 elevationhca.com PRO

Deborah Soltis Soltis Senior Care Connections (814) 355-9434 soltisseniorcare.com AVP

Tammy Steier Avail Care Managers, LLC (717) 552-1883 availcare.com PRO

Nicole Stroman Waverly Connect (215) 837-1404 WaverlyConnect.com AVP

Debbie Thomas SAGE Care Advisors (610) 331-0036 sagecareadvisors.com PRO

Susan Weiss-Cedillos 36 AgeWise Family Services (215) 659-2111 agewisefamilyservices.com AVP

Helena Wallace 37 The Option Group (302) 858-6449 theoptiongroup.net PRO

Marian Worthington Worthington Home Care Agency, LLC (610) 489-4663 worthingtonhomecare.com AVP

ALCA Membership Levels

Continued from page 39

services to the elderly and their families; and

• Have two years of post-degree supervised experience in a paid position in the field of Aging Life Care/care management within the last ten years. Members may also qualify if they hold an Associate’s Nursing degree or Diploma in Nursing and meet all of the other criteria outlined above.

Practitioners can also qualify for the Professional Membership level if they hold a Bachelor’s, Master’s or Ph.D. degree in a field unrelated to Aging Life Care/care management. However, these members must meet all of the other criteria outlined above, and they must have

three years of post-degree supervised experience in the field of Aging Life Care/care management within the last ten years.

ASSOCIATE MEMBER

Associate Members must:

• Hold an Associate’s, Bachelor’s, Master’s or Ph.D. degree;

• Be primarily engaged in a paid position in the direct practice, administration or supervision of clientcentered services to the elderly and their families. Members may also qualify if they hold an Associate’s Nursing degree or Diploma in Nursing and meet all of the other criteria outlined above. Practitioners can also qualify if they hold an LPN, PTA or OTA license and meet all of the other criteria outlined above.

FEATURED DESIGN:

Kitchens can be designed to accommodate varying abilities.

FEATURED DESIGN:

Railings with no gaps enhance safety.

STAIRWAYS

The optimal home would have all living areas on one level with no stairs. However, most homes in the region feature living areas on multiple levels, which makes the stairway a critical element of design. Some solutions include:

• Adequate grip rails on both sides that extend beyond the landings

• Lighting on and around the stairway

KITCHENS

• Contrasting colors to provide visual cues

• Floor treads

• Chair lifts, platform lifts, elevators

Well designed kitchens can accommodate the different heights and abilities of family members or visitors to the home. Some designs and products to consider include:

• Varying counter heights

• Elevated dishwasher

• Roll-out & pull-down shelves

• Swiveling cabinet doors with lazy Susan style shelving

• Rolling carts

• Dark and light colors for visual contrast

• Pull-out countertops below ovens

• Side-by-side refrigerator

• Knee space underneath cook tops and sinks

• Front control touchpad appliances

• Heat-proof surfaces

• Eliminating sharp corners

• Additional lighting including under-cabinet lighting

• Ergonomic utensils & products

“We’ve lived, laughed and loved in our home for more than 30 years. I never thought our own bathroom would become the source of such worry. As Bill got older, he had trouble lifting his legs over the sides of the tub, and I was afraid he would fall and hurt himself. That’s when I called P.J. Fitzpatrick Bath Solutions. Their tub to shower conversion along with their safety package, that places handrails and even a seat in the shower, took the worry out of our day. We’re not worried anymore about not being able to stay in the home where we raised our family. Thanks PJ!” — PJ Fitzpatrick Client

Courtesy of Schaffer Construction

Elder Law

What is elder or special needs law?

Legal issues that affect people as they age and people with special needs are growing in number. Our laws and regulations are becoming more complex, and each state has different laws. Actions taken with regard to a single matter may have unintended legal outcomes.

It is important for attorneys working with seniors, people with special needs, and their families to have a broad understanding of the laws that may have an impact on a given situation to avoid future problems. Elder and Special Needs Law encompasses many different fields of law.

Some of these include:

• Preservation/transfer of assets seeking to avoid spousal impoverishment when one spouse enters a nursing home

• Medicaid

• Medicare claims and appeals

• Social Security and disability claims and appeals

• Supplemental and long-term health insurance issues

• Tax planning

• Disability planning, including use of durable powers of attorney, living trusts, “living wills” for financial management and health care decisions, and other means

of delegating management and decision-making to another in case of incompetency or incapacity

• Access to health care in a managed care environment

• Conservatorships and guardianships

• Estate planning, including planning for the management of one’s estate during life and its disposition on death through the use of trusts, wills and other planning documents

• Probate and administration of estates

• Administration and management of trusts

• Long-term care placements in

Find an Elder Law Provider

Use this checklist to interview professionals:

How long has the attorney been in practice?

Does his or her practice emphasize a particular area of law?

How long has he or she been in this field?

What percentage of his or her practice is devoted to Elder or Special Needs Law?

Is there a fee for the first consultation, and if so how much is it?

Is there a flat fee for this service?

nursing homes and life-care communities

• Nursing home issues, including questions of patients’ rights and nursing home quality

• Elder abuse and fraud recovery cases

• Housing issues, including discrimination and home equity conversions

• Age discrimination in employment

• Retirement, including public and private retirement benefits, survivor benefits and pension benefits

• Health law

• Mental health law.

Source: www.naela.org

What is the estimate of the cost to resolve my problem and how long will it take?

Do you bill weekly, monthly, or upon completion of work?

Will there be any out-of-pocket expenses (charges for copies, postage, messenger fees, court fees, deposition fees and other such costs)?

Source: National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys

Will the Nursing Home Take My House?

By Rebecca A. Hobbs , Esquire, CELA

According to Genworth’s cost of care survey, in 2021, the median cost of nursing home care in a semi-private room in Pennsylvania was $10,403 monthly ($124,836 annually) . The staggering cost of nursing home care can be financially devasting. When faced with the fear of the skyrocketing cost of long-term care, many worry that they will lose their house to pay for their nursing home care.

Nursing home care is generally paid for in three different ways: (1) with the individual’s own money; (2) with a long-term care insurance policy; or (3) by qualifying for Medicaid. It is a common misconception that you must sell your house to qualify for Medicaid or that the nursing home will take your house. Although you generally do not need to sell your house to qualify for Medicaid, and the nursing home will not literally take your house, the fear of losing your house to the cost of long-term care is warranted if you do not plan ahead.

Your house is not a countable resource when determining Medicaid eligibility if certain exceptions apply. One of those exceptions is if the Medicaid applicant is married and their spouse is residing in the house. When there is a spouse residing in the home, the value of the home will not be counted as an available resource for Medicaid. However, if the house is sold or if the spouse moves from the house, the protection is lost.

There is a lot of misinformation on

how to protect your house. Gifting your house to your children is not the best idea. Medicaid has a five year “lookback” period. This means that any gift or transfer for less than fair market value that was made during the lookback will create a period of ineligibility known as the “penalty period.”

There are circumstances where you can transfer your real estate without incurring a penalty. Some of the exemptions include when you have a disabled child or a child under a certain age. There is also an exemption when there is a child taking care of the parent in their home.

Other complications with

outright-gifts include adverse tax consequences, specifically capital gains taxes due. In addition, the house is subject to your children’s life circumstances such as: divorce, lawsuits, debts, creditors, gambling, substance abuse, disability, financial mismanagement, spending habits, and distribution to the child’s spouse or others upon the child’s death. It is important to work with an elder law attorney when applying for Medicaid to make sure you are taking advantage of all the available tools to protect your assets.

www.genworth.com/aging-and-you/ finances/cost-of-care.html

Housing Options

Accommodating a variety of needs, tastes and budgets

The senior living industry can seem overwhelming, but the important thing to keep in mind is that there is a housing option perfect for every person and every situation. Start here to find it.

What housing options are available and how can they help me?

Life plan communities are also known as continuing care retirement communities. These communities generally feature care options ranging from independent living to longterm nursing care on one campus. Residents can transfer to higher levels of care as needed.

For older adults who want to leave the burdens of home maintenance behind, independent living communities may be the ideal option. In addition to property upkeep, these communities also generally offer 24-hour security and activities to keep residents engaged. Most independent living communities are rental properties, although some do offer the option for residents to purchase units.

Individuals who need assistance with the activities of daily living may want to consider an assisted living community. In addition to daily assistance, these communities also offer activity programs to fit the interests of every resident.

Assisted living communities are an important option for older adults who need some level of help on a daily basis. All of these communities offer standard services including daily meals; supervision; security; and help with the activities of daily living, or ADLs. ADLs can include assistance with bathing, dressing and toileting. Some communities also offer help with medication management; transportation services; and coordination of medical, health and dental treatments.

Finally, whether for a short-term rehabilitation or a long-term medical stay, nursing and rehabilitation centers are a vital senior living

option. Nursing and rehabilitation centers serve as permanent residences for individuals who are too sick or frail to live at home. They are also ideal for short-term stays for individuals who are recovering after a surgery or an illness.

How should I find a housing option?

Use our research. Sourcebook features detailed articles, checklists, featured listings and comprehensive tables in each of our specific housing sections. Use these resources to begin your

search for a community that is right for you and your family.

After selecting the type of community that best fits your wants, needs and budget, you should start calling individual properties to request additional information. Most communities can provide detailed brochures, helpful websites and easy-to-understand financial information.

Finding the right community will lead to a happier and healthier life, as well as added peace of mind for family caregivers.

Considering Retirement Living

Is the lifestyle right for you?

The questions below will help seniors and their families determine if a retirement living community may be the right choice for them.

• Do you feel isolated in your home?

• Do you find it difficult to get around your neighborhood?

• Do you lack relationships with your neighbors?

• Do you have difficulty driving?

• Do you wish that someone else would drive you to your errands and appointments?

• Do you have a hard time getting out of the house?

• Do you frequently go for weeks without seeing friends?

• Do you wish you had more of a social life?

• Do you miss participating in favorite activities?

• Do you find it difficult to run errands alone?

• Do you have a difficult time keeping up with home maintenance?

• Do you find it challenging to clean your home?

• Do you feel unsafe in your home or your neighborhood?

• Do you find it hard to climb the stairs into or inside your home?

If you answered “yes” to most of

Lutheran Community at Telford’s newest oncampus neighborhood, Summerfield, offers convenient, one-floor, maintenance-free living. Choose from three cottage styles, each with classic and spacious interiors.

Embrace an active and exciting retirement lifestyle with abundant events, clubs, amenities and restaurants; all while having peace of mind that, should your needs change over time, progressive levels of care are available right on campus.

the above questions, you may want to consider retirement living. However, you will also want to consider your current and future health care needs before making a final decision on the type of retirement community you should select. For instance, if you have a chronic health condition, you may want to consider an Assisted Living community, or a community that offers both Independent Living and higher levels of care on the same campus.

For many seniors, Retirement living offers the perfect lifestyle— one with no home maintenance or transportation worries and with plenty of social and recreational opportunities. With a wide array of communities available locally, you are certain to find a community that offers you both the independence you desire and the security you need.

Moving and Downsizing

Professional help can make moving easy

Moving can be a daunting task—no matter what your age—but it can be even more overwhelming for older adults who may be leaving a home they have lived in for decades. Luckily, the enormous growth in the senior population has led to the development of a wide variety of professional moving and real estate services designed specifically to help older adults and their families.

Senior Move Managers®, Senior Real Estate Specialists®, and Certified Senior Housing Professionals are just a few of the professionals who are specially trained to help seniors with all the challenges of moving and downsizing.

Senior Move Managers assist older adults and their families with the emotional and physical aspects of relocation. They can also help families who wish to declutter or reorganize

a home to better age in place. These professionals provide a multi-faceted approach to the move process, from space planning in the beginning to post-move support and advocacy.

From initial planning to downsizing to the physical aspects of moving, Senior Move Managers create a comprehensive plan that includes selling or disposing of unwanted items and setting up the new residence. Many Senior Move Managers are also movers. Others work closely with a reputable local moving company to complete that aspect of the job.

Senior Real Estate Specialists are Realtors who are specially trained to manage the sale of a home for consumers over the age of 50. They bring targeted knowledge, senior experience and marketing savvy to each sale. These specialists have extensive knowledge about

New friends are right down the hall!

Senior Move Managers minimize the chaos and stress of moving.

everything from reverse mortgages and the importance of universal design to the uses of pensions, 401k accounts and IRAs in real estate transactions.

Finally, Certified Senior Housing Professionals (CSHPs) are real estate professionals who have completed extensive coursework on how best to assist older adults and their families in the home buying or selling process. CSHPs understand that late-in-life moves can be more complicated and require greater physical and emotional

energy than traditional moves. They are trained to help older adults navigate the complexities of moving by addressing their fears, concerns, needs and goals.

The first step in every move process should be to evaluate the current living situation and needs. Then consumers can contact the many local professionals to inquire about services and costs.

Most professionals offer a diverse menu of services, ranging from full service moves to help with particular aspects of moving, buying or selling.

While the moving process may never be fun, there is no longer any reason for it to be difficult. Older adults and their loved ones can now let specially trained professionals handle all the details of selling, buying and moving—from cleaning out the cluttered basement to finding the perfect new place for every piece of treasured furniture. With professional help, every move can be a smooth one.

ASBURY GRACE PARK

Intergenerational Programs

A drive to create. A desire to learn. A yearning to be understood. There is more that unites young people and older adults than divides them.

By focusing on the commonalities between older adults and children and encouraging more exposure and understanding, intergenerational programs can build connections and help participants learn and grow at every age.

Generations United and LeadingAge teamed up with the Retirement Research Foundation to complete Intergenerational Programming in Senior Housing: From Promise to Practice, a report detailing findings from a year-long study on intergenerational programs in senior housing.

The report explains that “[i]ntergenerational practice involves bringing people together in purposeful, mutually beneficial activities that promote

greater understanding and respect between generations and contribute to building more cohesive communities.”

Intergenerational programs tend to focus on shared interests and common goals. The programs typically leverage the resources that the young and the old can offer each other. Programs are designed so that both the older adults and the children or young adults stand to gain knowledge and connections. Intergenerational programs help to

reduce social isolation and increase self-esteem and wellbeing. They also help individuals better understand and appreciate people who are not the same age as them. Ultimately, the programs help to foster good will and build strong communities.

According to the study, many retirement communities are incorporating intergenerational activities into their programs—and they are seeing positive results for both residents and youth. Retirement community efforts tend to focus on specific intergenerational activities to engage residents and young people, such as art or technology classes or events. The benefit of these short-term events is that they do not require a major commitment from either staff or participants. However, utilizing single events can make it harder for young people and older residents to form

relationships. While the interaction may be positive, it is not the same as building long-term relationships.

Some of the most promising programs identified by the study included tutoring and mentoring efforts. These programs allow retirement community residents to support young people by providing guidance and professional development opportunities.

Mentoring programs have been particularly effective for helping youth in foster care, special education students, and English as a Second Language students. Older adults can help young people improve their language and literacy skills or run after school homework clubs for youth.

While the report identified several significant challenges to implementing intergenerational programming, the benefits have the potential to far outweigh the challenges. Well-run intergenerational programs can help both older adults and young people feel more connected to their communities and more confident in their own worth and abilities.

Why Choose The Birches at Harleysville? Why Not!

• Simplified pricing and leveling with no hidden fees!

• Award-winning care that has been recognized by Caring.com, A Place for Mom® and U.S. News & World Report

• Friendly staff and compassionate caregivers

• Family-like atmosphere, where residents are proud to call us home!

• Specialized memory care program, Daybreak, reshapes our approach to supporting residents with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. Visit our renovated memory care neighborhood and learn all the ways we can help your loved one.

Stop in and see why we are the best in senior living or schedule a personalized tour with Nicole or Libby by calling 215-695-4197.

“I feel happy and

at

home

here!

The staff is so helpful and friendly.”

– Murial

Understanding Senior Living

A glossary of key terms

Like most industries, the senior living industry is ripe with acronyms and “insider” terms that can quickly become overwhelming. Sourcebook is filled with articles that will take the mystery out of the industry. This glossary is a compilation of key terms from all of our articles to help readers quickly find—and define—terms they may hear while calling providers or performing additional research.

Accreditation

A seal of approval given by an independent organization to a community or service provider. Communities or providers must meet high standards set by the organization and submit to regular inspections and reviews.

Active Adult Communities

Communities designed for active adults who do not need healthcare services. Communities typically feature an array of amenities and are often adjacent to golf courses. Individuals must be 55 or older to move into these communities.

Activities of Daily Living (ADLs)

Activities that are typically performed on a daily basis including eating, bathing, dressing, grooming, toileting, and medication management.

Advance Directives

Legal documents that express an individual’s wishes with regard to medical decisions. These can include living wills, powers of attorney and health care proxies. They provide direction to an appointed agent to speak on behalf of a person who is unable to speak for himself.

Administration on Aging (AoA)

An agency of the United States Department of Health and Human Services. AoA promotes the well-being of older individuals by providing services and programs designed to help them live independently in their homes and communities.

Adult Day Care

Facilities that offer socialization, activities and necessary supervision for seniors during the day. Assistance may also be available with the activities of daily living.

Aging in Place

The idea that seniors can choose to remain in their home living environments

despite the physical and/or mental decline that may occur with aging.

Aging Life Care Professionals

Health and human services specialists who act as a guide and advocate for families who are caring for older relatives or disabled adults. Also known as Geriatric Care Managers.

Aging Life Care Association (ALCA)

Organization that represents Aging Life Care Professionals. Members must meet stringent education, experience and certification requirements.

Alzheimer’s Disease

A type of dementia that causes problems with memory, thinking and behavior. Symptoms usually develop slowly and get worse over time, becoming severe enough to interfere with daily tasks.

Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs)

Organizations that serve senior populations in their local areas. AAAs receive federal funding under the Older Americans Act and most supplement that funding with additional state and local revenues. AAAs provide a broad range of services for seniors and their families. To find your AAA, visit n4a.org.

Assisted Living/Personal Care Communities

Communities that offer residents housing and supportive services delivered by qualified staff members. Assistance with the activities of daily living (ADLs) is available. Amenities vary widely but all communities offer basic services, including meals, supervision and security. In Pennsylvania, Assisted Living is also known as Personal Care.

Caregiver

The primary person charged with caring for an older adult or individual with a disability. Caregivers can be a family member or a designated healthcare professional.

Certified Senior Housing Professionals (CSHPs)

Real estate professionals who have completed extensive coursework on how best to assist older adults and their families in the home buying or selling process.

Companion Care

A type of home care delivered by caregivers, or companions, who serve as surrogate family members. Assistance can include meal

Continued on page

on Senior Housing Spotlight

Dunwoody Village

3500 West Chester Pike, Newtown Square, PA 19073 • 610-359-4400 www.dunwoody.org

Dunwoody Village is a not-for-profit continuing care retirement community located on 83 picturesque acres in Newtown Square, PA. The expansion and renovation of the community building was completed in 2022, offering brand new amenities – multiple dining venues, auditorium, fitness center, library, arts and crafts studio, woodshop and salon. Other amenities and services include fully enclosed and heated walkways, swimming pool, Jacuzzi, gift shop, weekly housekeeping and flat linen service, transportation and door-to-door mail delivery. Its five-star quality rated healthcare includes 81 private personal care residences and 81 private skilled nursing rooms on the campus, giving residents peace of mind as a topnotch continuing care retirement community for nearly five decades.

Waverly Heights

www.waverlyheights.org • (610) 645-8600

1400 Waverly Road, Gladwyne, PA 19035

Waverly Heights is a nonprofit Life Plan Community located in the heart of Philadelphia’s Main Line. Beyond the beautiful gardens and lawns, Waverly Heights offers unparalleled service to residents in an atmosphere of classic style and elegance. The comfort, security, health, well-being, and personal enrichment of our residents is of the highest priority and we are proud of the atmosphere we’ve created to help seniors enjoy and embrace life at Waverly!

Tel Hai Retirement Community

1200 Tel Hai Circle, Honey Brook, PA 19344 • 484-796-4262 www.telhai.org

Founded in 1956, Tel Hai Retirement Community is a non-profit, 501(c)3 Life Plan Community (formerly a continuing care retirement community) located in the rolling countryside of Chester County in Honey Brook Township. Tel Hai offers the full-continuum of aging services including residential living, personal care, memory support, health care, short-term rehab, home care services and outpatient therapy services. Tel Hai is motivated by Christ’s love for all, and our covenant is to provide a vibrant caring community that enhances the lives of those served, including more than 850 residents and 450 team members.

Understanding Senior Living

Continued from page 52

preparation, medication reminders, laundry, light housekeeping, shopping, transportation and assistance with exercising.

Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs)

Communities offering long-term contracts that guarantee lifelong shelter and access to specified health care services. Different levels of care are available to residents including independent living, assisted living and nursing care. See also Life Plan Communities.

Continuum of Care

Spectrum of care available at life plan communities (also known as continuing care retirement communities). This spectrum includes care options ranging from independent living to nursing and rehabilitation care. Residents can move up or down this continuum of care as needed.

Dementia

Dementia is a general term for a decline in mental ability severe enough to interfere with daily life. Alzheimer’s is the most common type of dementia.

Elder Law Attorneys

Individuals who specialize in areas of the law that are particularly relevant to seniors and their families. They may receive specialized training and certifications from professional organizations.

Entrance Fees

The fees paid by residents when entering a retirement community. Entrance fees vary widely depending on the type of agreement selected.

Homebound

Individuals who are restricted to their residence because of a permanent disability or disease.

NORMANDIE RIDGE

Home Care

Healthcare and supportive services offered by professionals in private homes. Home care can include companion care, home healthcare and skilled nursing care.

Home Health Care

Care provided in the home for individuals who are no longer able to perform the activities of daily living alone, but who do not need skilled medical services.

Hospice Care

Care that is offered to patients with a terminal diagnosis. Hospice includes supportive services, pain and symptom management, social services, and emotional and spiritual support.

Independent Living Communities

Residential communities for active older adults. Communities offer various amenities and activities. Home and exterior maintenance is included.

Life Plan Communities

Properties offering a combination of living options for older adults,

Explore Your Possibilities

Anticipate

including independent living, assisted living and skilled nursing services. Different levels of care are generally all offered on a single campus. Residents have the option to have all their current or future healthcare needs met without ever leaving campus. See also Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs).

Medicaid

Federal program designed to provide health coverage for lowincome people. States administer their Medicaid programs individually, resulting in variations in coverage across the country.

Medicare

Federal health insurance program for people age 65 or older. Certain people younger than age 65 can qualify for Medicare, too, including those with disabilities and those who have

communities that are equipped to handle patients with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia.

National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA)

A national professional association. Members are attorneys who are experienced and trained in the legal problems of aging Americans and individuals of all ages with disabilities.

National Elder Law Found. (NELF)

A national organization certifying practitioners of elder and special needs law.

Nursing & Rehabilitation Centers (Skilled Nursing Care Centers)

Facilities that provide care administered by professionals under the direction of a physician. Centers may serve as permanent residences for individuals who are too sick or frail to live at home.

Personal Care

See Assisted Living.

Rehabilitation

Care that helps patients recover from an illness or injury. Generally offered at Nursing & Rehabilitation Centers.

Senior Move Managers

Professionals who assist older adults and their families with the emotional and physical aspects of relocation.

Senior Real Estate Specialists

Realtors who are specially trained to manage the sale of a home for consumers over the age of 50.

Skilled Nursing Care (In Home)

A type of home care prescribed by a physician and administered by a registered nurse.

VA Benefits

Benefits available for individuals who have served their country in the armed forces. Benefits are provided through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.

Brittany Pointe Estates

Cokesbury Village | Country House

The Evergreens | Granite Farms Estates

Gwynedd Estates | Lima Estates

Manor House | Normandy Farms Estates

Southampton Estates | Spring House Estates

Marina, loving life

Home is Here

By Christy Brudin

Home is a special space. It’s more than four walls and a roof. It is a feeling. Whether home is defined by the people you are with or the natural surroundings out your window, that old cliché about home being where the heart is rings true.

Home may very well be where the heart is, but it’s also where the amenities, friends, and activities are, according to several residents of Cornwall Manor, a continuing care retirement community (CCRC) in central Pennsylvania.

Cornwall Manor is located on an 190-acre campus ripe with history and surrounded by natural beauty. Formerly the home of the Coleman family who owned and operated the Cornwall Iron Furnace, a large iron ore furnace dating back to the 1700s, the campus features a mix of historic buildings that have been preserved and enhanced, as well as modern buildings and amenities to accommodate the lifestyle of its residents. The community is home to active residents who enjoy a wide array of activities on campus and in the larger community. A variety of housing and floor plan options are available, and residents can transition from independent living to personal care and nursing care, as needed.

“

After initially retiring in Florida, Linda and Bruce Chadbourne decided to return to central Pennsylvania to be closer to family.

The fact that everything is taken care of at a continuing care retirement community is huge. There is no burden to our kids. That just seems like an enormous weight off their shoulders.”

Linda Chadbourne, resident, Cornwall Manor

While some residents of Cornwall Manor hail from Pennsylvania, Delaware, and New Jersey, many are from much farther away. Whether they are coming from a sprawling retirement community in Florida or a small town in the mid-West, residents choose Cornwall Manor for the friendly atmosphere and the true sense of community.

Florida No More

Linda and Bruce Chadbourne have moved many times. When it came time for retirement, they decided to settle in Florida, but the shine of the sunshine state soon wore off. The Chadbournes found themselves searching the mid-Atlantic for a forever home near their children.

A native of Boston, Linda moved every two years

throughout her childhood as the family followed her father’s jobs. She was living in central New York when she met Bruce. The two became high school sweethearts and were later married. The moving continued when Bruce joined the Navy. The couple finally settled in New Hampshire and raised two children.

As Bruce prepared for retirement, the couple started investigating where they would live. They found a large active adult community in Florida and built their dream home in 2012.

After a few years on Florida’s nature coast, the Chadbourne’s were missing their family. Because of the distance, their family wasn’t visiting as often as they would have liked, and traveling was difficult and inconvenient. With their kids settled in Pennsylvania and New

Hampshire, they started looking at retirement communities that would put them closer.

“We looked at a lot of places, but our daughter had a piano student who had a family member living at Cornwall Manor and loved it. We thought it was worth a visit,” recalled Linda.

Bruce continued, “When we came to Cornwall Manor for the first time, we stopped at the café and ordered a coffee. The lady who prepared our coffee told us she had been working here for 35 years and loved it. We knew then that this was a special place.”

The Chadbournes were also happy to find a continuing care retirement community. “As you age, there are going to be health issues, and we liked the fact that we would already have assisted living or nursing care in place if we needed them down the road,” said Linda. “The fact that everything is taken care of at a continuing care retirement community is huge. There is no burden to our kids. That just seems like an enormous weight off their shoulders.”

After moving to Cornwall Manor in 2018, the Chadbournes quickly settled in and loved their new home on The Woods campus. However, when the COVID pandemic shut down the world, they realized once again

how lucky they were to have a strong community.

“This community was absolutely wonderful during COVID. I have never felt so taken care of in my whole life,” Linda remembered. “The staff went above and beyond to keep us safe and to make us feel cared for and important. I can’t imagine what that experience would have been like if we had still been on our own.”

Now that COVID restrictions have lifted, the Chadbournes are once again enjoying all that Cornwall Manor has to offer. A former piano teacher, Linda plays for church services on campus. She also plays pool, teaches a class on making greeting cards, and enjoys long walks on campus.

“It can actually be hard to take a long walk around campus because you get stopped by neighbors to talk so often,” she said. “A 20-minute walk can take an hour. What an incredible blessing that is to have such a friendly community!”

Bruce, who is a bivocational minister, volunteers in hospice, visits residents in the on-campus health center, and teaches a bible study. “I am so glad that we didn’t wait until we were too old to enjoy all the wonderful things that Cornwall Manor offers, and that we have the opportunity to give back,” he said.

Cornwall Manor

Life Plan Communities

Offering diverse lifestyle options

Life Plan Communities are properties offering a combination of living options for older adults. These communities offer an active lifestyle for residents, as well as a wide array of amenities and services.

Life Plan Communities were formerly known as Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs).

Living options available at Life Plan Communities may include independent living, assisted living and skilled nursing services. These different levels of care are all offered on a single campus. Residents have the option to have all their current or future healthcare needs met without ever leaving campus.

Life Plan Communities afford residents endless opportunities to remain active and involved. These communities generally appeal to young, healthy older adults. Amenities vary widely but often include

swimming pools, fitness centers, gardening areas, and golf courses or putting greens. Additionally, residents have access to hundreds of clubs and activities—from art classes to yoga classes and from drama clubs to walking groups. Residents are also very involved in the operation and management of Life Plan Communities through resident boards or councils. Finally, Life Plan Communities are generally integrated into the larger

Understanding Contracts

By Kelly Hagler

You want to move to a senior living community, but that’s just the first of many decisions you’ll need to make. No matter which community you move to, you’ll have to sign a contract that stipulates the services you’ll receive and what you’ll pay—now and down the road. This guide can help you navigate the different contracts you may encounter as you embark on your search for a new home. Life plan communities, also known as continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs), offer multiple levels of care all on one campus. This setting is generally attractive to seniors who like to plan ahead. Life Plan Communities are most useful for seniors who can come in at the independent living level and move through higher levels of care as needed over time.

1. Type A (Life Care Agreements). According to the Commission on

Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities, Type A contracts include overall housing, residential services (amenities) and unlimited healthrelated services. Type A contracts provide a sense of stability, as future costs are much more predictable regardless of any changes in needed services or care. Residents pay a much larger entrance fee compared to other contract types, but the monthly fee is flat through all levels of care.

2. Type B (Modified Agreements). As with Type A, Type B contracts include housing and residential services. Unlike Type A, Type B does not cover all future health care needs but does offer discounted or waived rates for those services.

While Type B contracts have a lower entrance fee than Type A, should an

community. With active residents, these communities can focus on giving back and acting as a socially responsible neighbor.

Life Plan Communities give older adults the freedom and security to live active, healthy lives. They are the perfect option for individuals who want to plan ahead for future care needs, while focusing on enjoying every day.

Source: lifeplancommunity.org

increase in care become necessary, it would be the resident’s responsibility to cover costs.

3. Type C (Fee-For-Service Agreements). Like both A and B, Type C contracts cover housing, residential services and health care. “Basically, it’s pay as you go,” says Mark Herrera, vice president of skilled nursing administration and risk management at be.group. Residents pay a smaller entrance fee in the beginning. Then, if you don’t need to use higher levels of care, there is no additional cost to you beyond your monthly service fee for using amenities like transportation or activities. While Type C contracts will save you on up-front costs, the resident risks the potential for large costs down the road if there is a sudden need for care.

Before Signing a Contract

1. Consult a financial adviser. Joining a senior living community is a serious investment. Spend time with your trusted financial adviser. “Your biggest pitfall is not understanding how health care, especially Medicare, works in our country,” says Daniel S. Ogus, executive vice president and chief operating officer at be.group. “How much money do you have and how much will you need? Understand what benefits you’re getting from Medicare as well as your retirement packages.”

2. Research the organization and management. The financial stability of the community as well as the continuity of management are two essential factors to vet thoroughly.

3. Understand services covered. Asking about guaranteed services will alleviate many of those “what if ” questions: What if you get dementia?

What if you become debilitated? Ask management specific questions about what’s covered in your contract beyond care services.

4. Find out how refunds work. Signing a Life Plan Community contract is a big decision—so what if you change your mind?

5. Ask about a benevolence program. Many nonprofit Life Plan Communities offer benevolence programs if a resident exhausts his or her financial resources.

6. Make sure your voice will be heard in the future. Some communities have their own associations, and residents have the right to be represented on boards.

7. Determine what role your family will play. “We can’t share

information with children if the resident doesn’t give us permission to do so,” says Ogus. “If a resident has a condition change, we hope he or she will allow us to share with one of their adult children.” Make sure your family understands the financial commitment and how your contract works.

SPRINGHILL

Anticipate more well-being, more fellowship, and more fun at Erie’s premier senior living community. Swim some laps in our pool, join our Kinnections Brain Health program, and enjoy all the new friends you’ll make as you walk our lovely campus. Offering a wide range of apartments and cottages for active senior living with on-site health services for future peace of mind.

Explore Your Possibilities

Understand Entrance Fees

Knowing the options when paying for life plan communities

Most life plan communities require payment of a one-time fee, usually called the entrance fee, before moving to the community. The entrance fee amount often depends on the level of care at the time of entry, type of housing chosen (with larger units requiring a larger fee) and agreement type. The entrance fee allows the life plan community to offer lower monthly fees and provide for the future needs of residents. State regulations can impact the terms of the entrance fee and in some states, refunds are called rebates. Entrance fees are typically structured in one of three ways:

DECLINING SCALE REFUNDS

, also known as amortizing entrance fees, specify a period of time in which the entrance fee will be refundable to the resident on a declining basis. For example, if an entrance fee under this

arrangement declines at the rate of 1 percent each month, after 6 months 94 percent of the entrance fee is refundable.

PARTIALLY REFUNDABLE entrance fees guarantee a specific percentage of the refund that will be returned within a certain period of time regardless of the term of residency. For example, 50 percent of the entrance fee may be refundable upon termination of the contract or to the estate upon the resident’s death.

FULL REFUNDS offer just that, a full refund of the entrance fee. A fixed charge may be deducted before the refund is made, and the agreement generally states how long the refund is valid and under what conditions a refund is due. Entrance fees that offer full refunds

are typically more expensive than those without refunds or those that are partially refundable or refundable on a declining basis.

The entrance fee amount often depends on the level of care at the time of entry, type of housing chosen and agreement type.

Nationally, only 15 percent of all Continuing Care Retirement Communities have earned the "seal of approval" from the nonprofit CARF Continuing Care Accreditation Commission. The CARF is the nation's only system for accrediting continuing care retirement communities.

We are proud that our communities:

■ voluntarily meet the HIGHEST STANDARDS of excellence

■ submit to regular inspections and reviews

■ care about our residents' well-being and our staffs' training

■ maintain financial accountability and competent administration

We invite you to call or visit us to see what makes us different!

PENNSYLVANIA

 Waverly Heights 1400 Waverly Road Gladwyne, PA 19035 (610) 645-8600 waverlyheightsltd.org

 Landis Homes 1001 East Oregon Road Lititz, PA 17543 717-381-3550 landishomes.org

 Kendal~Crosslands Communities PO Box 100 Kennett Square, PA 19348 800-814-8133 kcc.kendal.org

NEW JERSEY

 Medford Leas 1 Medford Leas Way Medford, NJ 08055 866-407-5047 medfordleas.org

For more information or a nationwide list of accredited communities contact: CARF Continuing Care Accreditation Commission www.carf.org

Experience Pennswood

Choosing a Life Plan Community

Use this checklist to review options:

PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT

Is the community clean and well maintained?

Is ample parking available for residents and visitors?

Are exterior maintenance, snow removal and landscaping included in the monthly fees?

Are there multiple floor plans available?

Can residents decorate their cottages, condos or apartments according to their personal tastes?

Is the community pet friendly?

LEVELS OF CARE

What levels of care does the community offer?

Independent living?

Assisted living?

Skilled nursing care?

Short-term rehabilitation?

Memory care?

Do residents have access to in-home care should it be needed?

RESIDENT AND STAFF INTERACTION

Is the community well staffed overnight?

How does the community handle residents who need additional care and support?

Do staff members undergo screenings and background checks prior to employment?

Are housekeeping and laundry provided?

Are transportation services available?

Do caregivers interact with residents in positive ways?

What is the staff-to-resident ratio for each level of care?

FEES AND COSTS

What services are included in the monthly fee?

What services are available for an additional fee? What are the fees?

How often do resident rate increases occur?

Are there multiple contract options?

Do some contract options offer entrance fee refunds?

DINING SERVICES

Does the dining room look and smell inviting?

Are the dining room tables, chairs and linens in good condition?

Are residents allowed to invite guests for meals?

Can residents select their own meal times, or are there designated meal times?

Are three daily meals, snacks and beverages included in the monthly rate?

Does the resident committee work with the dining staff to develop menus?

Can the community accommodate special dietary needs?

Is there a dietician or nutritionist involved in meal planning?

LOCATION

Is the community conveniently located for friends and family to visit?

Is the community in a safe neighborhood?

Are there shopping, dining and entertainment options near the community?

Is the community near preferred medical providers?

OVERALL IMPRESSION

Does the community look and feel like a place you could call home?

Source: www.whereyoulivematters.org, a senior living resource powered by the American Seniors Housing Association (ASHA)

BUCKS COUNTY

PHILADELPHIA

OTHER PENNSYLVANIA

Independent Living Communities

Providing security with no home maintenance

Independent living communities are residential communities for active older adults who want an enjoyable lifestyle free of the worries of home maintenance. They are similar to any apartment, condominium or singlefamily development, except that they provide special services, including security. Most independent living communities are fully secured with staff members greeting and screening all visitors around the clock.

As many individuals at this stage in their lives are looking to pursue new hobbies and interests, the activities and amenities available at a community are a major factor for potential residents. Most independent living communities provide a full range of activities such as shopping trips, outings to cultural events, organized gatherings and an array of clubs. Some communities also have tennis courts, swimming pools and other amenities.

Independent living communities

typically offer a variety of meal plans. Residents also have the option of preparing their own meals.

Most independent living communities do not offer health care services. However, some communities are affiliated with health care facilities that can

provide such care when it is needed. Residents also have the option of purchasing home health care services from outside providers.

Most independent living communities are rental communities, but some are condominiums or single-family communities in which residents purchase their units or homes. Costs and services vary widely. In some communities, a monthly fee covers many services, while in others a fee-for-service system is used. A few communities offer subsidies based on strictly defined need. To learn more, contact your local Area Agency on Aging.

Consumers should carefully research the independent living community options in their target areas or neighborhoods. After requesting and reviewing information from communities, prospective residents should plan on-site visits to each community they are considering.

Affordable Independent Living

What is available and how to qualify

According to LeadingAge, a person can rent an apartment either at the market rate or, if his or her income level qualifies, at a lower rate. These apartments are often designed with seniors in mind. For example, there may be railings in bathrooms or power outlets higher up on the wall. Many communities also offer a 24-hour emergency call service and some may also provide different kinds of services such as meals, transportation, social activities and other programs.

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) funds several rental assistance programs for seniors who qualify. These programs include public housing or low-income housing that is owned and operated by a local housing authority. To

apply for public housing or Section 8 certificates or vouchers, you must go to your housing authority. Each housing authority has a system for accepting applications. Their representatives can explain their system and how to find an available apartment.

HUD’s Section 202 program includes apartments where the government provides subsidies directly to owners of qualified properties developed with loans or grants from the federal government. The owners pass along the federal rental assistance subsidy to qualified residents to cover the gap between the resident payment, generally 30 percent of adjusted income, and rent costs.

The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development funds several rental assistance programs for seniors who qualify.

To apply for housing in a privately-owned affordable housing community, a person will have to visit the management office for each community. Contact your local HUD office to get a list of privately-owned communities near you.

Most independent living communities provide a full range of activities.

Choosing Independent Living

Use this checklist to review options:

PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT

Is the community clean and well maintained?

Is ample parking available for residents and visitors?

Are exterior maintenance, snow removal and landscaping included in the monthly fees?

Are there multiple floor plans available?

Can residents decorate their cottages, condos or apartments according to their personal tastes?

Is the community pet friendly?

Does the community have safety features, such as handrails and grab bars?

Do individual residences include safety features, such as emergency alert and fire suppression systems?

RESIDENT AND STAFF INTERACTION

Is the community well staffed overnight?

How does the community handle residents who need additional care and support?

Do staff members undergo screenings and background checks prior to employment?

Are housekeeping and laundry provided?

Are transportation services available?

Do caregivers interact with residents in positive ways?

What is the staff-to-resident ratio?

FEES AND COSTS

What services are included in the monthly fee?

What services are available for an additional fee? What are the fees?

How often do resident rate increases occur?

Are subsidies available? How do residents qualify for subsidies? Is there a waiting list?

DINING SERVICES

Does the dining room look and smell inviting?

Are the dining room tables, chairs and linens in good condition?

Are residents allowed to invite guests for meals?

Can residents select their own meal times, or are there designated meal times?

Are three daily meals, snacks and beverages included in the monthly rate?

Does the resident committee work with the dining staff to develop menus?

Can the community accommodate special dietary needs?

Is there a dietician or nutritionist involved in meal planning?

ACTIVITIES AND PROGRAMS

Are activities scheduled throughout the day and evening?

Are fitness classes offered?

Are there dedicated spaces for resident clubs and informal gatherings?

Does the community offer regular outings to local restaurants, theaters, museums and other destinations?

Are there outdoor spaces available for walking, gardening and recreation?

Are volunteer programs available?

Do the residents appear engaged and energetic?

LOCATION

Is there public transportation nearby?

Is the community in a safe neighborhood?

Are there shopping, dining and entertainment options near the community?

Is the community near preferred medical providers?

OVERALL IMPRESSION

Does the community look and feel like a place you could call home?

Talk with residents and their family members. What do they like about the community?

Can they recommend it?

Did they consider other options when searching for a community?

Why did they choose this community?

PENNSYLVANIA -

COUNTY

-

COUNTY

PENNSYLVANIA - PHILADELPHIA

PENNSYLVANIA - PHILADELPHIA (continued)

OTHER PENNSYLVANIA

OTHER PENNSYLVANIA (continued)

STATE OF MARYLAND

Assisted Living/Personal Care

Offering needed assistance and rewarding activities

Assisted living/personal care communities—frequently known as Personal Care Communities in Pennsylvania—offer a vital option for older adults who need some assistance with daily living. While the specific amenities will vary, all assisted living/personal care communities offer basic services including meals, supervision, security and help with personal care needs. For many residents, the help available at an assisted living/personal care community can allow them to continue to live their best life.

In most states, assisted living/ personal care communities are registered, licensed or certified by an appropriate department or agency of the state that has a process for issuance of initial licenses and for renewing existing licenses. This process provides basic protections for consumers.

Residents of assisted living/ personal care communities are generally seniors who need some

assistance with basic activities, frequently called the activities of daily

Continued on page 89

ASBURY IVY GABLES

Explore Your Possibilities

Choosing Assisted Living/Personal Care

Use this checklist to review options:

PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT

Is the community clean and well maintained?

Are there multiple floor plans available?

Can residents decorate their apartments according to their personal tastes?

Is the community pet friendly?

Does the community have safety features, such as handrails and grab bars?

Do individual residences include safety features, such as emergency alert and fire suppression systems?

RESIDENT AND STAFF INTERACTION

What is the staff-to-resident ratio?

Is the community well staffed overnight?

How does the community handle residents who need additional care and support?

Do residents have access to in-home care should it be needed?

Do staff members undergo screenings and background checks prior to employment?

Is the staff screened and evaluated for their ability to work with older adults in the assisted living setting?

Does the community have its most recent survey results posted or displayed for families to review?

Are staff trained and retrained at regular intervals?

Are housekeeping and laundry provided?

Are transportation services available?

DINING SERVICES

Does the dining room look and smell inviting?

Are the dining room tables, chairs and linens in good condition?

Are residents allowed to invite guests for meals?

Can residents select their own meal times, or are there designated meal times?

Are three daily meals, snacks and beverages included in the monthly rate?

Does the resident committee work with the dining staff to develop menus?

Can the community accommodate special dietary needs?

Is there a dietician or nutritionist involved in meal planning?

FEES AND COSTS

What services are included in the monthly fee? What services are available for an additional fee? What are the fees?

How often do resident rate increases occur?

How much notice do residents receive prior to a rate increase?

ACTIVITIES AND PROGRAMS

Are activities scheduled throughout the day and evening?

Are fitness classes offered?

Are there dedicated spaces for resident clubs and informal gatherings?

Are there outdoor spaces available for walking, gardening and recreation?

Are volunteer programs available?

Do the residents appear engaged?

LOCATION

Is the community conveniently located for friends and family to visit?

Is the community in a safe neighborhood?

Are there shopping, dining and entertainment options near the community?

Is the community near preferred medical providers?

Source: www.whereyoulivematters.org, a senior living resource powered by the American Seniors Housing Association (ASHA)

HOUSING ASSISTED LIVING/PERSONAL CARE

PENNSYLVANIA - BUCKS COUNTY

- DELAWARE COUNTY

ASSISTED

HOUSING ASSISTED LIVING/PERSONAL CARE

HOUSING ASSISTED LIVING/PERSONAL CARE

OTHER PENNSYLVANIA

ASSISTED

10 Tips for Choosing Assisted Living/Personal Care

1. Make an accurate and honest assessment of your physical, financial, mental and lifestyle needs.

2. Visit as many facilities as you can to get a sense of the choices in your area.

3. Narrow down your selection to the top two or three choices and return to those facilities and ask lots of questions.

4. Ask to review a copy of the Resident Agreement (facility contract).

5. Ask to review the licensing or certification inspection report.

6. Call the Long Term Care Ombudsman program and ask if there are complaints about the facilities you are interested in. Contact the ElderCare Locator at 1-800-677-1116 or www.eldercare.gov to find your local ombudsman who serves as an advocate for assisted living/personal care and nursing home residents.

7. Make an unannounced visit to the facilities you are interested in. Talk with the residents and their family members about the facility.

8. Ask what conditions or circumstances may result in the need to relocate to another facility.

9. Ask what the baseline fee is and what services are included in that fee. Ask what additional charges apply for services/products.

10. Choose the facility that comes closest to your needs.

From The Consumer Consortium on Assisted Living (CCAL), a national consumer education and advocacy organization. Visit www.ccal.org for more information.

Assisted Living/Personal Care

Continued from page 78

living (or ADLs). Some communities may accept residents with Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. In fact, some communities may specialize in serving individuals with specific medical conditions, including dementia. A few communities serve individuals of any age with developmental disabilities. When reviewing assisted living/personal care communities, consumers should ask about any specializations the community may have.

The services and activities provided in these communities help to promote the quality of life and independence of the residents. One key offering is 24-hour supervision of the residents and the property. Resident safety and security is a priority at all assisted living /personal care communities.

All communities also offer three meals a day in a group dining room. However, dining options can vary dramatically in terms of the meals available and the costs associated with meal plans.

Finally, all assisted living/personal care communities offer personal care services, also known as help with the ADLs. These services include assistance with bathing, dressing and toileting.

Other services and activities available at some assisted living/

personal care communities include:

• Medication management, or assistance with self-administration of medicine

• Coordination of services by outside health care providers

• Assistance with arranging medical, health and dental care services

• Social services

• Transportation services

• Outdoor areas for walking or gardening

• Supervision and assistance for persons with Alzheimer’s or other dementias and disabilities

• Recreational and spiritual activities

• Exercise and wellness programs

• Laundry and linen service

• Housekeeping and maintenance

• Individualized services

While assisted living/personal care communities do provide a high level of care, it is important to consider what is not provided at these communities before selecting one. Assisted living/ personal care communities are a bridge between living at home and living in a nursing home. Assisted living/personal care communities do not typically provide the level of continuous skilled nursing care found in nursing homes and hospitals. For instance, if a prospective resident needs constant care, a nursing home may be a more viable option. There is no set standard for assisted living accommodations. Therefore, options can vary greatly from one assisted living community to the next. For instance, some communities offer private rooms featuring kitchenettes and private bathrooms, while others offer shared units or shared bathrooms. Consumers must consider the prospective resident’s personal needs, financial means and personal preferences before selecting a community.

Source: www.ahcancal.org

Know the Symptoms of Alzheimer’s

The Alzheimer’s Association provides the common signs

Options for Memory Care

Considering a residential facility

For older adults with Alzheimer’s disease or another form of dementia, moving to a residential memory care facility may be the best option. These communities can offer varying levels of care, depending on the needs of the patient. They also offer valuable peace of mind for family members and caregivers, who may no longer be able to provide care at home.

Most retirement living communities offer options for individuals with memory care needs. Before selecting a community, potential residents and their families should carefully evaluate their current and future care needs. Consumers should also familiarize themselves with the wide variety of community options available. More information about housing options is available throughout the Sourcebook

Life Plan Communities

These communities provide a full range of care options from independent living to nursing care. Residents with memory care needs would generally move in while they are still healthy and progress to higher levels of care.

Memory loss that disrupts daily life is not a typical part of aging. It may be a symptom of Alzheimer’s, a fatal brain disease that causes a slow decline in memory, thinking and reasoning skills. Every individual may experience one or more of these signs in different degrees and is recommended you see a doctor if you notice any.

1. Memory loss that disrupts daily life

One of the most common signs of Alzheimer’s is memory loss, especially forgetting recently learned information. Others include forgetting important dates or events; asking for the same information over and over; and relying on memory aides (e.g., reminder notes or electronic devices) or family members for things they used to handle on their own.

What’s typical? Sometimes

Assisted Living/Personal Care

Assisted living facilities offer additional support for residents, including assistance with the activities of daily living. Many assisted living facilities offer services specifically designed for people with dementia.

Skilled Nursing Facilities

These communities offer round-the-clock care for patients. Some nursing homes have specialized units and specially trained staff to accommodate the needs of patients with dementia.

Special Care Units

Special Care Units, or SCUs, are also called memory care units and are designed to meet the specific needs of individuals with Alzheimer’s and other dementias. These units are often located within other residential care options. Some of these units are locked or secured for the safety of residents. SCUs generally offer other specialized services, including highly trained staff and activities designed for individuals with varying stages of dementia.

Source: Information adapted from the Alzheimer’s Association (www.alz.org).

forgetting names or appointments, but remembering them later.

2. Challenges in planning or solving problems

Some people may experience changes in their ability to develop and follow a plan or work with numbers. They may have trouble following a familiar recipe or keeping track of monthly bills. They may have difficulty concentrating and take much longer to do things than they did before.

What’s typical? Making occasional

errors when balancing a checkbook.

3. Difficulty completing familiar tasks at home, at work or at leisure

People with Alzheimer’s often find it hard to complete daily tasks. Sometimes, people may have trouble driving to a familiar location, managing a budget at work or remembering the rules of a favorite game.

What’s typical? Occasionally needing help to use the settings on a microwave or to stream a television show.

4. Confusion with time or place

People with Alzheimer’s can lose track of dates, seasons and the passage of time. They may have trouble understanding something if it is not happening immediately. Sometimes they may forget where they are or how they got there.

What’s typical? Getting confused about the day of the week but figuring it out later.

Information from the Alzheimer’s Association website. Visit www.alz.org or call 1.800.272.3900 for information.

Choosing a Memory Care Facility

Use this checklist to review options:

STEP 1 – Call Facilities and Ask Questions

Are families encouraged to participate in care planning?

Do staff members communicate openly with families?

Are families informed of changes in the resident’s condition or care needs?

Is personal care and assistance provided?

Is medical care provided?

Is care personalized to meet specific resident needs, abilities and interests?

Is the staff specifically trained in dementia care?

Is there a physician and/or nurse practitioner on the premises and a registered nurse on site at all times?

What is the ratio of residents to staff?

Is staff equipped to handle challenging behaviors?

Are planned activities scheduled, and do they actually take place?

Are activities designed to meet specific needs, interests and abilities of residents?

Are activities available on the weekends or in the evenings?

Is transportation available for medical appointments or personal shopping?

Is physical, occupational, speech and recreational therapy available?

STEP 2 – Visit Facilities and Observe

Do residents appear comfortable, relaxed and involved in activities?

Are residents well groomed, clean and dressed appropriately?

What is the rate of falls for residents?

Is the facility free of unpleasant odors?

Is there indoor space available for residents to move around freely?

Are both the indoor and outdoor areas safe, secure and monitored?

Is there a designated family visiting area?

Are the resident rooms clean and spacious?

Are residents allowed to bring personal items with them, such as photos and bedding?

Is the food appetizing?

Is the dining area a pleasant environment?

Can family and friends join residents for mealtime?

Can the facility accommodate special dietary needs?

Does staff provide assistance with feeding if necessary?

STEP 3 – Ask More Questions and Decide

Are family and friends able to participate in resident care?

What is the discharge policy? Ask about any situation or condition that would lead a resident to be discharged, including behavior changes and financial circumstances.

Is staff available to escort residents to the Emergency Room, if needed?

Is end-of-life/hospice care available on site?

Source: Information adapted from the Alzheimer’s Association. For additional assistance with care decision making, contact the Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline at 800.272.3900 or visit www.alz.org.

Nursing & Rehabilitation

Specialized care for individuals who need daily assistance

At a nursing care center, care is administered by professionals under the direction of a physician. Many facilities also offer sub-acute, respite, rehabilitation and other short-term care. Rehabilitation services can be especially helpful for individuals who are recovering from surgery, an illness or any other life-changing event.

Who is Nursing Care for?

These communities serve as permanent residences for individuals who are too sick or frail to live at home, or as temporary facilities during a recovery period. Some residents enter a nursing care center for a short-term stay after a surgery or illness, while others enter on a more permanent basis.

Who Pays for Nursing Care?

Medicare, Medicaid, private insurance and personal assets are all used under various circumstances to pay for services in a nursing care

facility. If a facility is not certified by Medicare and Medicaid, the care will have to be paid for entirely with personal funds.

In general, Medicare pays for skilled nursing care following hospitalization for the same illness or condition at

Ombudsman Programs

Advocates can help residents and families

A long-term care ombudsman is an advocate who strives to improve the quality of life for individuals receiving long-term care services. Ombudsmen resolve complaints against long-term care providers through counseling, negotiations and investigations. They can also provide vital information about long-term care providers to help consumers make informed decisions.

Using trained volunteers, ombudsman programs make regular visits to long-term care facilities to interact with residents and staff. Finally, ombudsmen strive to educate the community about long-term care issues, train long-term care staff and consult with long-term care providers. The ombudsman program is federally mandated and located

in every state. Operated by the Administration on Aging, the ombudsman program has 7,734 volunteers certified to handle complaints and 1,300 paid staff.

How can an ombudsman help me?

An Ombudsman can offer advice on housing and help with complaint counseling, negotiations, investigations and resolutions. Ombudsmen stand with residents of long-term care communities, ensuring that their voices are heard and their complaints and concerns are addressed.

For families who are searching for a nursing facility or an assisted living facility, Ombudsmen can provide vital information about facilities, services, complaint histories, inspection

100 percent of the cost for days 1 – 20. Some long-term care insurance pays for nursing care centers; insurance payments are usually a fixed amount for a specified number of qualified days.

The basic daily rate is the standard charge the nursing care center bills to all residents, which covers the fundamental services every resident receives, including rent for the room, housekeeping, meals and general nursing care. It is important to understand all the services and amenities that are not included in the basic daily rate.

What to Look for in Nursing Care

Before choosing a community, contact the Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program of your Area Agency on Aging. Ombudsman programs promote the highest quality of life and care for residents of nursing facilities and can help families and staff with inquiries and complaints.

reports, and features to look for while searching for a community.

As a consumer of long-term care, Ombudsmen can help you voice any concerns you may have about current providers. They can also take you through the steps necessary to resolve any complaints. This generally starts with negotiation, during which the two parties sit down to discuss the concern and the Ombudsman serves as a facilitator. In many cases, both parties are able to agree to a solution. If negotiation is not successful or appropriate, Ombudsmen can launch a formal complaint investigation aimed at achieving a resolution to support the resident. Ombudsmen will accept anonymous complaints. In cases where names will be used, residents and/or their families must sign a waiver of the right to confidentiality.

For more general information about the program or to find programs in your area, visit Ltcombudsman.org.

Choosing a Nursing & Rehab Center

Use this checklist to review options:

PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT

Are public areas and resident rooms clean and comfortable?

Is ample parking available for visitors?

Are private rooms available?

Does the community have a pet?

Does the community have safety features, such as handrails and grab bars?

Are the exits clearly marked?

RESIDENT AND STAFF INTERACTION

How many Registered Nurses (RNs) and Certified Nursing Assistants (CNAs) are on staff? What type of education and training do staff members have?

Do all staff members undergo screenings and background checks prior to employment?

How does the community handle residents who need additional care and support?

Is there a care plan developed for every resident?

Are care plans reviewed and updated by providers and family members?

Is the interaction between residents and staff members warm and respectful?

What is the staff-to-resident ratio for each level of care?

Do staff members respond to residents’ requests for assistance promptly?

What is the staff-to-resident ratio at night and on weekends?

CERTIFICATION AND LICENSURE

What levels of care does the community offer?

Skilled nursing care?

Short-term rehabilitation?

Memory care?

Is the facility Medicare and Medicaid certified? Are the home and its current administrator licensed?

FEES AND COSTS

What services are included in the daily rate? What services are available for an additional fee? What are the fees? How often do rate increases occur?

DINING SERVICES

Does the dining room look and smell inviting? Are there enough staff members available to assist residents during meals?

Are the dining room tables, chairs and linens in good condition?

Are residents allowed to invite guests for meals? Can residents select their own meal times, or are there designated meal times?

ACTIVITIES AND PROGRAMS

Are activities scheduled throughout the day and evening?

Are fitness classes offered?

Are there dedicated spaces for resident clubs and informal gatherings?

LOCATION

Is the community conveniently located for friends and family to visit?

Is the community near preferred medical providers?

OVERALL IMPRESSION

Does the community look and feel like a place you could call home?

Sources: www.whereyoulivematters.org, a senior living resource powered by the American Seniors Housing Association (ASHA) and www.medicare.gov, Medicare’s Nursing Home Checklist

PENNSYLVANIA - BUCKS COUNTY

PENNSYLVANIA -

PENNSYLVANIA - PHILADELPHIA

PENNSYLVANIA - PHILADELPHIA (Continued)

OTHER PENNSYLVANIA

OTHER PENNSYLVANIA

(Continued)

NEW JERSEY - MERCER COUNTY

OTHER NEW JERSEY

STATE OF MARYLAND

Home Care

Home care can include a wide variety of healthcare and supportive services from professional nursing and home health aide services to physical, occupational, respiratory and speech therapies. An advancing industry, home healthcare is essentially skilled nursing care and certain other forms of healthcare that you get in your home for the treatment of an illness or injury. It is an important option to consider regardless of one’s age or health conditions.

Options in Home Care

An incredibly diverse field, home care includes companion care, home healthcare or skilled nursing care.

COMPANION CARE is provided by caregivers or companions, who serve as surrogate family members, performing many of the tasks that family members would

typically complete. Assistance from companion caregivers can include meal preparation, medication reminders, laundry, light housekeeping, shopping, transportation and assistance with exercising. The overall goals of companion care providers are to ensure that the home environment remains safe and that the individual has a companion to spend time with when family is not available.

HOME HEALTHCARE is for those who are no longer able to perform all of the functions of daily living by themselves but who do not require skilled medical services. A home health aide can help with activities of daily living (ADLs), which include bathing, dressing, transferring, eating and toileting. Additional services generally include meal preparation, mobility exercises, housekeeping, laundry, medication reminders and transportation.

SKILLED NURSING CARE is prescribed by a physician and is administered by a registered nurse. The services provided by skilled nurses include: administering injections, administering medications, wound care, IV monitoring, blood tests, catheter care, respiratory therapy, physical therapy, feeding tube administration and more.

Medicare and Home Care

Know the coverage options

When it comes to understanding Medicare coverage, many individuals can find themselves confused by a complex web of information. This especially applies to those who want to know if they are eligible for Medicare coverage when entering a nursing home or receiving home health care. Below is some helpful information on whether you can use your home health care benefits if you have Medicare and what services and products it will cover.

First, you can use your home health care benefits if all of the following applies to your situation. Your doctor must prescribe that you need medical care at home and create a care plan. The care you need has to be intermittent and in the form of skilled nursing care, physical therapy, occupational therapy or speech therapy. The home health agency must

be Medicare-certified and you must be homebound, or unable to leave the home unassisted.

Once you have established those requirements, it is important to understand what Medicare will actually cover, which includes the following:

• Home health aide services on a part-time or intermittent basis, as long as there is a skilled need

• Medical social services

• Certain medical supplies

• Durable medical equipment (wheelchair, walker, bedside commode, etc.)

Given the services and products that Medicare does cover, it is also valuable to take note of what is not covered. Care that is required 24 hours a day will not be covered. Other services not covered include personal care

provided by home health aides such as bathing and dressing, along with homemaker services like cleaning and laundry. Also not included are homedelivered meals.

If you require care that goes beyond intermittent visits for a limited amount of time, or if your needs are not covered by Medicare, an important option to consider is private duty home care. For more information on Medicare coverage, visit medicare.gov.

Choosing Home Care

How long has this provider been serving the community?

How does this provider select and train its employees?

Does it protect its workers with written personnel policies, benefits packages and malpractice insurance?

Do they consult the patient’s physicians and family members?

How does the agency follow up on and resolve problems?

Does this provider include the patient and his or her family members in developing the plan of care?

Are nurses or therapists required to evaluate the

patient’s home care needs? If so, what does this entail?

Are patients involved in making care plan changes?

Does this provider supply literature explaining its services, eligibility requirements, fees and funding sources? Many providers furnish patients with a detailed “Bill of Rights” that outlines the rights and responsibilities of the providers, patients and caregivers.

Is the patient’s course of treatment documented, detailing the specific tasks to be carried out by each professional caregiver? Does this provider take time to educate family members on the care being administered to the patient?

Adult Day Care

Providing socialization and care

Adult Day Centers are an important option for family caregivers, as they offer socialization, activities, and necessary supervision to those who are socially isolated or need care and assistance.

Caregivers can feel confident that their loved one is safe and well cared for at an adult day center while they are at work or performing other necessary tasks. Centers offer a variety of programs and amenities, including exercise programs and a diverse schedule of engaging activities.

Assistance with the activities of daily living, including eating, walking, toileting and medication management may also be available. Additionally, many centers offer physical, speech and occupational therapies to their participants. All licensed centers provide nutritious meals and snacks on a daily basis.

Choosing a provider

After locating nearby providers,

Caregivers can feel confident that their loved one is safe and well cared for at an adult day center while they are at work or performing other necessary tasks.

call them to request flyers, brochures, calendars and application information. While reviewing this information, pay careful attention to how many years the provider has been in business and their licensures and certifications. Be sure to understand the staff credentials, staff-to-participant ratio, and the medical conditions the facility and its staff are equipped to

Choosing an Adult Day Center

Use this checklist to review options

Use the following questions to guide your visits to adult day centers. Be sure to get all your questions answered and do not hesitate to ask follow-up questions if anything seems unclear.

How many years has the center been in operation?

Is the center licensed, certified or accredited?

What are the days and hours of operation?

If needed, is assistance provided with eating, toileting and dispensing medication?

What types of activities are provided?

Do participants help plan activities?

Are meals or snacks provided?

Can special dietary needs be accommodated?

Do participants have individual service plans? How often are they updated?

What is the staff-to-participant ratio?

What type of training do staff members receive?

handle. Inquire about the availability of transportation to and from the program if it is necessary. The types of activities offered and the menu variety should be considered as well. Specific costs and any financial assistance that is available should be clearly outlined in the information packet.

Reviewing printed materials and asking questions over the phone can help narrow the choices, but the final decision of which adult day center to use must be made in person. During the visit, staff members should be able to provide clear and easy-tounderstand information about the services and activities provided at the center. Checking references from individuals who are currently using this provider or have used them in the past is the final step in the decisionmaking process.

Source www.nadsa.org

Are fees charged hourly, daily or monthly? What will the total fee be for services?

How are payments accepted?

Is a deposit required?

Is financial assistance available?

Are special care options available for participants with certain conditions, such as memory loss?

Are transportation services available? What is the additional fee?

Is physical or occupational therapy available on site? Is there an additional fee?

Is the facility easily accessible?

Is the facility clean and pleasant?

Do staff members and participants seem to interact frequently?

Are staff members welcoming and engaging?

Do participants appear happy and engaged?

Source www.nadsa.org.

Active Day of Newark

Riverside AD Prog. - Wilmington

PENNSYLVANIA

Active Day of Bristol

Active Day of Broomall

Active Day of Center City

Active Day of Chestnut Hill

Active Day of Clifton Heights

Active Day of Crozer

Active Day of Exton

Active Day of Horsham

302-533-3543

302-765-4175

215-788-2408

610-325-1600

267-773-8135

215-242-4501

610-626-4270

484-768-2110

610-363-8044

215-443-5300

Active Day of Kennett Square 610-388-1166

Active Day of Overbrook Park

215-877-0202

Active Day of Plains 570-823-5161

Active Day of the Northeast 215-676-7800

Active Day of Warminster 215-343-6250

Adult Day Srvs Souderton Ctr - Souderton 215-703-0523

Adult Day Service at Westminster Village 610-782-8390

Chandler Hall Health Services - Newtown 215-860-4000

Delta Community Supports - Levittown 215-943-9230

Elderwatch Plus - Philadelphia 215-877-0202

Evergreen Adult Day Program - Wyndmoor 215-233-6309

Homelink, Inc. - Philadelphia 286-951-4321

Kit’s Corner - Frederick 610-754-7878

Landis Adult Day Services 7 717-581-3939

LifePath, Inc. - Sellersville 215-257-8687

Lifespan Adult Day Care Srvs - Pennsburg 215-679-2659

Lifespan Adult Day Care Srvs - Quakertown 215-536-6016

Main Line Adult Day Center - Bryn Mawr 610-527-4220

Manatawny Manor Adult Day Srvs 610-705-3749

Menno Haven ADC - Chambersburg 800-222-6695

Mid County Senior Srvs - Newtown Square 610-353-6642

Montgomery Adult Day Living Ctr - Lansdale 215-855-7997

Narberth Adult Day Care Center - Narberth 610-617-7850

North Penn VNA Adult Day Srvs - Lansdale 215-855-8296

North Penn VNA Adult Day Srvs - Souderton 215-703-0523

Northeast Adult Day Care - Philadelphia 215-671-0200

Riverview Adult Day Health Svrs - Royersford

609-883-0200 Active Day of Laurel Springs 856-784-4000 Active Day of Marlton 856-988-3250

Active Day of North Bergen 201-869-4443

Active Day of Vineland 856-691-3756

Active Day of Washington Township 856-227-1377

ADULT DAY CARE

Featured Providers

PA / DE / NJ Edition - Winter/Spring 2025

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or national origin.

Green and Sustainability Initiatives make a difference when living in a Senior Living Community.  From our Forest Restoration Project to investing in geothermal heating and cooling, Foulkeways is committed to green practices and planning to help ensure that future generations have access to the resources we have today.

Foulkeways at Gwynedd, a Life Plan Community guided by Quaker Values, promotes independence, quality of life, respect, inclusion, and choice.

At Kendal~Crosslands Communities you can have it all—relax in the comfort of your home, or step outside to connect with friends and neighbors in our vibrant community. Whether you prefer peaceful solitude or active socializing, the choice is always yours.

At Kendal~Crosslands Communities you can have it all—relax in the comfort of your home, or step outside to connect with friends and neighbors in our vibrant community. Whether you prefer peaceful solitude or active socializing, the choice is always yours.

At Kendal~Crosslands Communities you can have it all—relax in the comfort of your home, or step outside to connect with friends and neighbors in our vibrant community. Whether you prefer peaceful solitude or active socializing, the choice is always yours.

But the most important step is making a plan for your future self. Secure the life you deserve by creating a path for your future retirement living needs. It’s never too early.

But the most important step is making a plan for your future self. Secure the life you deserve by creating a path for your future retirement living needs. It’s never too early.

But the most important step is making a plan for your future self. Secure the life you deserve by creating a path for your future retirement living needs. It’s never too early.