Aging Resources Magazine 2022-2023

et h er you’ re rea dy to do wn s iz e or c hoo se an al ter n ate livin g arra ng eme n t, our tr u ste d gr oup of rea l estate a dvi so rs h as the e xp er ience to ass i st you wi th p re p ar ing a nd mar k et ing your h ome f or the high es t ret urn on you r inv estme n t. G iv e us a ca ll a nd l et ’s sit down to di sc uss wh at you r options look lik e. W e l o ok fo rw ar d t o h ear ing f rom y ou.

SUCCESSFUL AGING

Living Well While

and Aging

HEALTHY AGING AND WELLNESS

Maximizing Your Time

Doctor

Moving for Better Health

Isolation and Mental Health

Prevention

Well

with Dementia

CAREGIVING AND COMMUNITY HELP

to Seek

for

and

SENIOR LIVING

Age in Place with

SRES

from Caregiver

Design

Help

Different Types

Senior Housing

Housing

INSURANCE AND FINANCES

How to Pay for the Care You Need

Being Scammed

Medicare

Help

PLANNING

Ahead for Peace of Mind

Advance Directives)

Planning

and Hospice Care

AGING RESOURCES DIRECTORY

Care, Home Health

Housing

Find More Resources Online

Additional Resources from Hulsey Media

Living Well While Living Longer

Proactive Strategies can Help with Healthy Aging in the Prime Time of Life

With people living longer – and healthier –than ever before, our latter years afford us the opportunity for more fulfillment and fun. To focus on healthy aging, consider these lifeenhancing strategies:

Engage your mind and spirit. Stay sharp and mentally enriched by reading and writing, doing puzzles and playing games, taking classes at a community college or online, engaging in arts and crafts, playing and listening to music and traveling — even if just taking short day trips. Seeing and experiencing new things can make you feel youthful. Immersing yourself in a hobby and engaging in lifelong learning not only can help you stay young at heart but can help you remain mentally and physically healthy, too.

1.

2.

Focus on good nutrition. Make sure your diet includes lots of fresh, nutritionally rich foods and go easy on junk food and fast food. With the advice of your healthcare provider, take supplements to ensure you’re getting enough vitamins and minerals in your diet. Avoid dehydration by drinking plenty of water and other healthy drinks.

3.

Keep moving. In the spirit of the old adage “move it or lose it,” staying physically active can do wonders for your overall health. In addition to building strong bones and muscles to help prevent falls, exercise helps your cardiovascular health and staves off depression. Find types of physical activity that keep you interested and motivate

you to make movement, stretching and strengthening a daily habit. Consider joining a health club or find a buddy to enjoy walks or other exercise with indoors and outside in the fresh air.

4.

Make check-ups a priority. Key to keeping illness and physical problems at bay is having regular screenings and checkups from healthcare providers. In addition to in-person visits, telehealth consultations by phone or video chat are a good option. If and when a physical or mental health change occurs, don’t assume it’s “just part of aging” –get checked out. Symptoms can be signs of treatable illnesses especially when addressed early. Changes with vision and hearing are a common part of growing older but can often be helped easily with the right prescription of

glasses or the appropriate hearing aid. Because vision and hearing problems can be signs of other health issues and can also affect your balance, make these check-ups a priority. Dental care becomes more important especially as we age because it can impact our eating and can also affect our heart health. Be sure to take good care of your teeth and see your dentist regularly. If you find yourself dealing with depression, substance abuse or other mental health challenges, don’t delay seeking professional help.

5.

Stay socially connected. Make a concerted effort to keep up with friends and loved ones through regular phone calls, emails, social media platforms like Facebook and in-person visits inside and outside your home. Join recreational clubs

Mobility Scooters

Ramps & Lifts

Lift Chairs

Stair Lifts Grab Bars

where you can make new acquaintances as well as get involved with new activities and interests. Volunteer your time – by doing so, you’ll not only experience the joy of giving back and having a purpose but you’ll also have opportunities to interact with others.

VOLUNTEERING RESOURCES

United Way of Asheville and Buncombe County

HandsOnAsheville.org

United Way of Henderson County

6.

Combine healthy activities for even more impact. Simultaneously participating in healthy practices gives you even more benefit than just doing them individually. For example, playing an intellectually challenging game with a friend is better than simply doing so alone because you get the perks that come from socializing in addition to flexing your brain muscles. By combining a mentally challenging game with others with physical exercise, too, you reap a positive powerhouse of benefits for your mind, body and spirit.

LiveUnitedHC.org/Volunteer

United Way of Rutherford County UnitedWayofRutherford.org

United Way of Haywood County

UWHaywood.org

Haywood Jackson Volunteer Center

HAJAVC.org

VolunteerMatch VolunteerMatch.org

Moving from Caregiver to Care Receiver :

AdventHealth provides hope as a family journeys through Alzheimer’s with their mother.

Kevin Morgan’s mother, Molly Morgan, has been a caretaker her whole life. She provided care for a son with Cerebral Palsy, then to Kevin’s grandfather who had a stroke, and finally to her husband who suffered from dementia. When Kevin’s dad passed away 6 years ago the family thought that Molly would finally be able to do something that she wanted to do. But they slowly realized that was not going to be the case.

“No one realized that Mom had significant memory issues until Dad passed away.” Kevin remembers, “Then the light went on; mom had nothing to regulate her day. We realized she had significant memory challenges.”

After Molly’s primary care physician ran some tests, it became clear Molly was suffering from Alzheimer’s Disease. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, Alzheimer’s Disease is the most common cause of dementia — a continuous decline in thinking, behavioral and social skills that affects a person’s ability to function independently.

Molly experienced a slow progression of the disease over the course of three years. But it eventually got to the point that Kevin and his family felt like they needed specialized care, not just for her, but for the whole family. “Alzheimer’s, there’s not a cure for that,” Kevin says, “You just try to mitigate it and slow it down if you can. You just try to deal with the reality of it. Not only did she need someone that specialized in that, but my siblings and me, as caregivers, needed that as well.”

Kevin and his family decided to send Molly to AdventHealth Hendersonville to see Marianna Benson, DO who specializes in Geriatric Medicine through its Age-Friendly Initiative. “I just felt like we needed a different level of care.” Kevin says, “I felt like Dr. Benson could help all of us.”

AdventHealth Hendersonville is among the first health systems in the country – and the first in North Carolina to receive the Age-Friendly Health System – Committed to Care Excellence designation at all of its AdventHealth Medical Group locations across Western North Carolina. Dr. Benson is part of a team of providers at the AdventHealth Medical Group Multispecialty at Laurel Park who offer specialized services for older adults and their caregivers. These services include physical therapy, nutrition, dementia support groups and pet therapy.

“The field of geriatrics has taught me to listen to my patients and be humbled by their trust,” Dr. Benson says, “I am also rewarded by helping families understand and plan for loved ones with dementia.”

Dr. Benson offers caregivers, like Kevin and his family, resources and tips on how to manage their loved one’s daily care. “It’s empowering,” Kevin explains, “I’m a very positive and happy person, but those unknown things – what is next month going to bring, or what is next year going to bring – to have someone to talk about that with – to me that’s empowering because it takes some of the fear away. It makes me feel safe. It makes me feel like my mom is safe.”

Molly is going to be 90 years old in April, and the thing that matters most to her is to be able to stay home as long as she can. With Dr. Benson’s help and using the Age-Friendly Care Initiatives from AdventHealth Hendersonville, Kevin is more prepared to meet the needs of caring for his mother. “Health is not just about getting rid of all illnesses, or sicknesses, or conditions,” Kevin says, “Health is about the journey. And I think AdventHealth is invested in that journey with their patients.”

The future of health care is here.

At AdventHealth, we’re redefining health care by employing the most innovative medical solutions in pursuit of less-invasive procedures, shorter recovery times and an elevated patient experience. Our leading experts are here to help you stay well ahead for your whole life.

Stay well ahead at AdventHealthNC.com.

Revolutionizing health care so you can feel whole for your whole life.

Lifelong Learning Enriches Mind, Body and Soul

Local Entities Offer a Variety of Programming

As people live longer, growing older means we often can continue to thrive and enjoy life for many more decades than previous generations experienced.

In the United States, the average life expectancy is 75 years for men and 80 years for women. More people are living to be 85 years old and older, and the number of Americans living to be 100 or older continues to climb.

With more good years – and even decades –ahead, we have the opportunity to continue to learn new things, stay physically active and be socially engaged. And such life enrichment helps us remain healthy and productive in our elder years.

Lifelong learning and life enrichment feeds and nurtures our physical, intellectual, social and spiritual wellness. Here in Western North Carolina, several institutions offer high-quality, life-enhancing programs for older adults. By their very nature, all of these programs offer opportunities for socialization, volunteering, community building, life planning and networking. They can broaden your world, open your mind to new possibilities for your life and ensure your upcoming years are rich and meaningful.

BLUE RIDGE CENTER FOR LIFELONG LEARNING (BRCLL)

Located on Blue Ridge Community College’s Flat Rock campus, Blue Ridge Center for Lifelong Learning offers a full slate of enrichment and

educational programming. Participants can select from courses on a wide variety of topics including US, international and Appalachian history, current affairs, technology, literature and more. The program also hosts occasional brown bag lunches on various topics and has launched a new series called “For Your Health” which brings in various medical professionals to discuss topics related to healthy aging. There is a one-time lifetime membership fee to receive a catalog of classes three times a year.

LIFE@WESTERN CAROLINA (828) 227-7397 | LIFE.WCU.EDU

A program of Western Carolina University, the mission of LIFE@Western is to establish a community of lifelong learners age 50 and older by offering participant-determined topics of interest that promote learning and community-university engagement.

OSHER LIFELONG LEARNING CENTER

AT UNCA ASHEVILLE (828) 251-6140

OLLIASHEVILLE.UNCA.EDU

A nationally acclaimed learning community for older adults, the Osher Lifelong Learning Center at UNC Asheville offers opportunities for lifelong learning, leadership, community service and continued growth in a variety of settings. Founded in 1988 as the North Carolina Center for Creative Retirement, OLLI’s programming includes intellectual and cultural pursuits as well as social, physical and practical life courses such as life transition and retirement relocation planning, including its Creative Retirement Exploration Weekend (CREW). OLLI’s College for Seniors (CFS) program offers more than 350 courses in four terms every year, including some online programs.

"You and your company were a true blessing for my mother and our family. All of the care givers were amazing at caring for my mother during this stage of her life. I really appreciate all of your care and advice during this time for us."

– W. Cantey

Terri

Thorstad

Beth

Embracing Technology Helps You Stay Independent

How Using Different Devices Promote Health and Happiness

In our 21st-century world, technology is woven into every part of our lives and has become even more important to help people stay connected. For older adults and those caregiving for loved ones, the realm of devices and technological tools that can help with maintaining independence and a good quality of life is growing every day with libraries, senior centers, colleges and others often offering related training and helpful information. Here’s a sampling of just some of the many gadgets that can make life easier and more enriching:

Tablets and E-readers

With screens that are larger than smartphones

and portability that desktop computers lack, tablets – when connected to the Internet through Wi-Fi – can help provide easy access to bank accounts, investments, financial information and health records. They also provide a handy way to surf the Web, order household items, food, meals, medical supplies and more, and stay connected with friends and family through social networking sites like Facebook. These devices also can be used to monitor home-based security systems and view video surveillance footage. Through video chatting platforms like Zoom, WhatsApp, Skype and Google Hangouts, people can combat loneliness and isolation. These platforms also help individuals take

care of business with professionals such as medical providers who offer telehealth services. E-readers like Kindles, Kobos and NOOKs are lightweight, have the ability to make words appear larger and can provide virtual libraries of books, magazines and other reading materials at the touch of a fingertip.

Smart Speakers

Like having a virtual assistant who does what you say, smart speakers like the Amazon Echo and Google Home devices also use a Wi-Fi connection to respond to requests for information and more. Users give voice commands to make the devices play music and games, set timers, make lists, get the weather, control connected devices such as thermostats and lights, order products from select retailers, turn televisions on and off and much more.

Video Gaming Consoles

By playing video games, you can have fun while flexing your mental muscles, helping your memory, improving your dexterity and stimulating your mind. And in addition to the action, adventure, role-playing, simulation and puzzle genres, there are games that virtually mimic playing sports and doing exercises that can help with maintaining physical activity, balance and strength. Games are also available that allow the player to connect with others online, offering a virtual avenue for additional social interaction.

Healthcare-Related Devices

Medication-dispensing systems can remind users to take their medicine and can send alerts if a dose is missed. Battery-powered devices called personal emergency response

systems (PERS) – or medical emergency response systems – typically can be carried in a pocket or worn around the neck or wrist and allow the user to call for emergency help with the press of a button. Vital health data such as someone’s heart rate, oxygen levels, blood pressure, blood glucose and more can be measured and collected through wearable health monitoring sensors. Wireless-enabled wearable activity trackers like those made by Fitbit and Garmin can help measure daily physical fitness, such as steps walked or climbed, sleep quality and heart rate.

Through an ever-growing number of assistive devices, technology can offer life enhancement, peace of mind and help with remaining independent at home with less worry and more fulfillment.

telehealth evaluations, performed by a licensed and skilled occupational therapist, for seating and positioning equipment, such as wheelchairs, standers, and other mobility devices.

LimbtechNC.com 828-688-7988

AMY SIEGLER

OTD, OTR/L BOCO Amy@LimbtechNC.com

Pets as Companions

What to Consider as an Older Adult When it Comes to Animal Care

Adding a pet to your household can be a wonderful way to combat the loneliness and isolation that sometimes comes with aging. Pets can fill voids in our lives, giving us joy, companionship and purpose. And while there are many benefits to having a pet, adopting an animal is an important decision with different factors to consider at any age but especially as you get older.

How Pets Are Good For Your Health

As we age, our level of interaction with friends and families can dwindle with the relocation or death of loved ones. Bringing a pet into your life can help counter the sadness, anxiety and depression that can come with being alone. Studies have shown

that having a pet can help reduce your blood pressure and ease stress. Pets also help fulfill the basic human need for touch and give people happiness through their playfulness and mere presence.

Having an animal gives you a purpose in life beyond just yourself and can help you get your mind off your own issues. The care of a pet that comes, for instance, with taking a dog for a walk or playing with a cat, also can help you stay more physically active. Pet owners – particularly those with dogs they take on walks – often have more social interaction with others, another part of animal companionship that helps counter loneliness.

Considerations for Older Pet Parents

Many pets – particularly dogs and cats –have average lifespans of a decade or more. Adopting pets is for life – both theirs and yours. As you yourself age, it’s important to think about the impact that potential changes in your health situation and living arrangement may have on an animal companion. If you are adopting as an older adult, make a plan for who will take your animal friend should you no longer be able to give your pet the care he or she needs.

Prior to adoption, assess whether or not you are currently able to take care of a pet’s needs, such as its feeding, grooming, litter box care and other clean-up, daily walks and visits to the veterinarian. Consider enlisting the help of a friend, loved one or someone you can hire to help at times with the care of your animal. Think, too, about the financial cost of having a pet. As pets themselves become elderly, there is the potential that they will have increased healthcare needs which may come with higher costs.

When choosing a pet, give consideration to the size and age of the animal. For example, a large, high-energy puppy has the potential to tug hard on a leash and possibly pull you down. A small kitten can easily get underfoot and could cause you to trip. Younger animals are typically more energetic and require more training and attention. Consider adopting an older, senior pet who may have a calmer demeanor and be more settled into a routine. And while dogs and cats are popular pets, consider other animals such as birds, fish, rabbits and reptiles which can offer companionship, too.

Keep in mind that just because friends and family members may think you need a pet in your life, the decision – and responsibilities that come with having a pet – are yours alone. Prior to considering animal adoption, take time to carefully evaluate if having an animal to care for fits with your lifestyle, your physical abilities and your living arrangement.

LOCAL RESOURCES FOR PET ADOPTION

Asheville Humane Society

AshevilleHumane.org 828-761-2001

Blue Ridge Humane Society

BlueRidgeHumane.org 828 692 2639

Foothills Humane Society

FoothillsHumaneSociety.org 828-863- 4444

Transylvania Animal Alliance Group

TAAGWags.org 828 966 3166

Rutherford County Humane Society

RutherfordCountyHumaneSociety.org 828-287-7738

Madison County Animal Shelter MadisonCountyNC.gov/ Animal-Shelter.html 828-649-3190

Yancey Humane Society

YanceyHumaneSociety.org 828-682-9510

Haywood County Animal Services

HaywoodCountyNC.gov/ 154/Animal-Services 828-456-5338

Maximizing Your Time with Your Doctor

How to Get the Most Out of Your Appointments with Healthcare Providers

Time with your doctor can be limited these days. Most primary care physicians see about 20 a day and spend on average 18 minutes with a patient during a typical visit. But with some preparation and planning, you can maximize time with your healthcare provider and get more out of your appointment.

Explore Telehealth Options

Many healthcare providers have begun offering more telehealth options to address patient needs. When contacting your healthcare provider, find out if such telehealth options as virtual appointments through online videoconferencing or phone calls are available and if they are a good fit for your particular health situation.

Share Medical Records and Test Results Before Your Visit

By making sure your doctor has your previous diagnostic work prior to your visit, your healthcare provider has the opportunity to gain important background information about your medical situation before consulting with you.

Arrive Early but Be Prepared to Wait

Arriving about 15 to 20 minutes before your

in-person appointment will give you adequate time to fill out paperwork, use the restroom and take care of other check-in items. By getting to the appointment early, you ensure your actual appointment time with your healthcare provider is not taken up with these other tasks. Even if you arrive early, you may still have to wait to see your doctor, so allot yourself plenty of time for the appointment.

Don’t Go Alone

Having a friend, loved one or hired advocate with you during an office visit gives you another set of eyes and ears. Ask your companion to take notes or consider asking your health care provider if he or she is OK with you making an audio recording of the visit for your future reference. Your appointment buddy can be a good sounding board and also may be able to offer insight to the doctor about any health issues you are having.

Take a List of Your Medicines and Supplements

Rather than relying on memory, take a list of your prescription and over-the-counter medications, supplements, vitamins, herbs and nutraceuticals and their dosages. Include how frequently you take them. Bring them in their prescription bottles or store packaging if that’s easier for you. By accurately sharing with your medical provider what medications and supplements you are taking and how much and how frequently you are taking them, you reduce the chances of negative drug interactions.

Summarize Your Medical History

Have in hand a summary of your allergies, surgeries, vaccinations, family medical history and diagnosed conditions.

Be Specific and Bring a Written List of Your Medical Concerns

Before your visit, write down your health concerns, questions and symptoms and prioritize them in order of their importance to you. Invite input from your loved ones. Take three copies to your appointment – one for you, one for your physician and one for your health advocate.

Clarify Your Doctor’s Recommendations

Ask questions, repeat back what your doctor says and ask for written details about your treatment plan on paper or through your healthcare provider’s secure online patient portal if one is available. Find out if there are warning signs you need to watch for with your condition and possible medication side effects

and interactions. Clarify next steps about your treatment and find out the best way to reach your physician before, during and after regular office hours if you have questions or concerns.

Stay Positive, Follow Your Healthcare Plan and Pay Attention to Your Body

Having a good attitude about your well-being, your healthcare providers and your doctor’s visits helps support your health and wellness. Follow your treatment plan to maximize results. Don’t wait to report changes in your condition with your provider. Instead of seeing medical appointments as burdensome, embrace the attitude that you are part of a healthcare team that is helping you age well and stay healthy.

Get Moving for Better Health

How Staying Physically Active Helps As You Age

Exercising at any age has great benefits but as we grow older, staying physically active offers unique rewards, including countering agerelated weight gain, building stronger bones, fighting off diseases, helping with balance and even slowing the aging process itself.

As we age, our bodies typically experience slower metabolism, a loss of muscle and bone mass, a decline in cardiovascular health and a slowdown of reaction times and reflexes.

To attain the most health benefits from physical activity, the U.S. Dept. of Health and Human Services recommends participating in at least 150 minutes – or two-and-a-half hours – of moderate-intensity aerobic activity each week and muscle-strengthening activity at least two days a week.

“Moving more and sitting less” is key, according to the federal government agency, since increased sedentary behavior is

correlated with an increased risk of heart disease, high blood pressure and all causes of death. Fortunately, any type of physical activity – even 10-minute sessions at a time –helps offset these risks.

Ailments that regular physical exercise and strengthening help prevent include many types of cancer, dementia, heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes and depression. Being more active also strengthens bones, lowers the risk of falls and helps combat weight gain.

For older adults, the National Institute on Aging says four types of exercise are especially beneficial:

• Endurance exercises or aerobic activities

• Strength or resistance training

• Balance training and

• Flexibility exercises

The National Council on Aging recommends exercise routines that blend aerobic exercise, strength and resistance training, and stretching and flexibility exercises. Yoga, pilates, aerobic exercise such as walking, swimming and using the stationary bike are all good choices for older adults. Simple, low-impact strength-training exercises such as wall push-ups, stair climbing, squats and single-leg stands or routines using light hand weights or resistance bands are effective for building muscle and bone strength.

When getting started with an exercise program, the National Institute on Aging

recommends the following to be safe and reduce the risk of injury:

• Begin slowly with low-intensity exercises.

• Warm up before and cool down afterward.

• Pay attention to your surroundings when exercising outdoors.

• Drink water before, during and afterwards even if you don’t feel thirsty.

• Wear appropriate fitness clothes and shoes.

• If you have specific health conditions, discuss your exercise and physical activity plan with your health care provider.

No matter what you choose to do to stay active, the bottom line is that exercising and working toward being physically strong helps with all aspects of aging and being healthy for years to come.

AGING AND EXERCISE RESOURCES

Healthy Aging NC HealthyAgingNC.com/ External-Programs

National Council on Aging NCOA.org/Article/The-LifeChanging-Benefits-of-ExerciseAfter- 60

National Institute on Aging NIA.NIH.gov/Health/Four-TypesExercise-Can-Improve-Your-Healthand-Physical-Ability

North Carolina Office of State Human Resources OSHR.NC.gov/State-EmployeeResources/Benefits/Wellness/Fitness

Social Isolation and Mental Health

How To Identify and Mediate Social Isolation and Chronic Loneliness

Social isolation is an issue that seniors have had to manage for many years. The pandemic also highlighted how severe this problem is, particularly with older members of society.

Feelings of loneliness can occur and persist even while surrounded by others, and conversely, sometimes people are very content to live alone.

Signs of Chronic Loneliness

• Loss of appetite

Reduced activity

Social anxiety

Include:

Some Factors Can Increase the Risk of Social Isolation

Social anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues can develop in any aging adult as changes in abilities are noticed. Seniors may not have the same desire or capability to attend social gatherings or participate in social activities like they used to.

Lack of desire to be around others

Lack of sleep or sleeping too much

Decline in hygiene

• Binging TV or movies

Disorientation and confusion

Elders living far from loved ones may find it difficult to maintain close relationships, and those who require assistance with daily tasks are less likely to be socially active. Also, seniors who are no longer driving are at risk if dependable replacement transportation is not available.

Patients with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia are also more

Several Ways to Help Improve Chronic Loneliness

Any seniors who are no longer driving are at risk if

is not available.

Potential ripple effects

Consequences of social isolation and chronic loneliness directly affect mental health by causing symptoms ranging from poor sleep to depression, and even rapid cognitive decline.

These problems can also manifest in the body, causing physical symptoms such as decreased cardiovascular function and immunity. Isolation and loneliness have been notably linked to high blood pressure and can even put individuals at a higher risk for stroke.

No Place Like Home...

Care Can

Home care services can help with more than activities of daily living. An aide who is a good fit can continue to be a part of a support system, regularly checking in and socializing as well as providing loved ones with a sense of security by knowing a companion is regularly present.

Productive activities like volunteering, group learning, or group fitness programs can boost morale. Local YMCAs have great options for these.

Libraries offer activities, book clubs or discussion groups, or volunteer opportunities that can provide a sense of community and purpose. Reading can also keep the mind sharp, stimulating the brain as well as bringing back memories.

Senior centers are places of support which offer meals, activities, clubs, and exercise, and they are often free of charge. In addition to on-site support, there are often planned group outings such as trips to farmers markets, theaters, museums, or casinos, giving seniors events to look forward to and encouraging an active lifestyle.

Adult day services can make a difference for those who need increased supervision or care. Seniors who are craving social and mental stimulation, friendships, exercise, or volunteer opportunities can be taken care of on site while stimulating activities are offered through programs such as Mountain Explorers through Mountain Care Services.

Video calls like Zoom or FaceTime as opposed to text messages, emails, or traditional phone calls have been found to reduce the risk of depression. Any video chatting platform can be simple to use and require little to no setup or cost, making it easy to speak with loved ones face to face at any time. Apps such as Skylight or other photo-sharing platforms make it easy for friends and family to share photos and videos as well.

Meal delivery services such as Meals on Wheels can provide more than just nutrition. Beneficial social interaction occurs when meals are delivered.

Psychological therapy is available, and some may offer counseling in a group setting. Therapy can provide support for transitional times, managing feelings, and discovering enjoyable, meaningful activities within one’s current capabilities.

The Institute on Aging is available to provide emergency verbal assistance to anyone experiencing a crisis situation, as well as offer social interaction in the form of routine conversations during non-emergency situations. They also offer well-being checks, and can provide resources such as information and referrals if needed. Reach the Friendship Line toll free at 800-971-0016.

Having a pet to care for offers immediate companionship as well as opportunities for socialization with other pet owners.

Your local Council on Aging offers a variety of beneficial services, activities, and programs for people over 60 such as Call A Ride, food and meal delivery, assistance navigating Medicare, caregiver support, housing repairs, and elder justice.

Taking Action

Seniors who stay active and engaged are happier, typically healthier, and likely to live longer. Identifying feelings of loneliness due to social isolation and mediating those as soon as possible can help seniors continue to live socially integrated in different ways, making a significant positive impact on mental and physical health. If one idea is not a good fit, continuing to experiment with other options that may be more suitable is key to finding the best case scenario for this chapter of life.

SERVING HEARING NEEDS IN WNC FOR OVER 30 YEARS!

Whether you’re in need of a complete hearing evaluation, have a question about your current hearing aids, or find that tinnitus is taking away from your ability to enjoy each day, we’re here to help.

Better Hearing, Better Living.

Reduce the Risk of Falls and Their Consequences

Tips for Preventing Falls by Improving Your Health and Home

Every 11 seconds, an older adult is treated in the emergency room for a fall and every 19 minutes, an older adult dies from a fall, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Falls are the leading cause of fatal injury and the most common cause of nonfatal traumarelated hospital admissions among older adults. But even when no physical injury occurs, experiencing a fall can cause older adults to become worried and then depressed, to suffer decreased confidence and selfesteem and to begin to limit their activities and socialization out of fear – all of which can lead to more falls.

Falling is not a normal part of aging. And fortunately, falls can often be prevented with awareness and simple changes around the home.

Prepping Yourself for Fall Prevention

As we age, we cannot regain our balance from a stumble as quickly as we once did but we can ensure we stay as alert, strong and flexible as possible to prevent that stumble in the first place.

• Wear sturdy, nonslip shoes every day and all the time and clothing that is well-fitted and doesn’t bunch up or drag on the ground.

• Take your time rather than hurrying, particularly when walking up and down stairs.

• Be particularly mindful when visiting places outside your home since you may not be as familiar with their layouts.

• Stay active and walk every day. Consider taking exercise classes, balance classes, yoga or tai chi to build physical strength and improve balance.

• Schedule a doctor’s appointment to discuss fall prevention and be evaluated for conditions that can lead to increased falling, such as cardiovascular issues, arthritis, neuropathy and dementia.

• Have your physician review your medications to ensure interactions do not increase your risk of a fall. For example, tranquilizers, sedatives, antidepressants and over-thecounter medicines can affect your balance.

• Be careful when drinking alcohol since it can impair perception.

• Discuss with your doctor any numbness, aches, foot pain or shortness of breath you experience as you go about your daily routine.

• Get tested for balance, strength and gait.

• Be treated for low blood pressure and vitamin D and calcium deficiencies as all are risk factors for falls.

• Ensure that any eyesight or hearing issues are noted and corrected if possible. Get an eye exam at least once a year and update your glasses as needed. If you wear bifocals or progressive lenses, consider getting a pair with only your distance prescription for outdoor activities, such as walking, because these types of lenses can impact how you judge distances.

• Impaired hearing can put you at risk for balance issues in addition to isolation and reduced activity. Have your hearing checked and use a hearing aid if one is prescribed.

• Bring up any other issues you think may put you at risk for a fall. For instance, if you’ve already suffered a fall, let your doctor know.

• Ask for your overall risk level for falling and for recommendations on how to prevent a fall.

• Talk with your healthcare provider about whether mobility assistance devices such as canes or walkers might help if you have impairments.

• If your physician does not offer such assessments, ask to be referred to a physical therapist to evaluate your balance, strength and gait; see your eye doctor to evaluate your sight; have your hearing checked; and ask your pharmacist to review your medications for any potential interactions.

Prepping Your Home for Fall Prevention

Reducing major risk factors for falling inside your home is easy and inexpensive.

Eliminate Clutter: Take a good look around the house and remove anything from the floor that could cause you to trip, such as piles of reading material s or clothes, electric cords, heaters or fans.

Secure Rugs: Remove any loose rugs. If you must keep them, secure them to the floor with double-sided tape.

Improve Stairs: Stairways should be clear of clutter, have sturdy handrails on both sides and be well lit.

Make Your Bathrooms Safer: Be sure floors stay dry. Put non-slip mats in tubs and showers and in front of toilets. Install grab bars in showers , near toilets and anywhere else they could be helpful. Place a seat in the shower or use a transfer bench in the tub. Improve Lighting: Be sure every room in the house – especially high traffic areas and bedrooms – are well lit. Ensure light switches are easily accessible from doorways and not behind furniture or across a room. Install good nightlights in your home, especially from the bedroom to the bathroom. Keep flashlights and fresh batteries in each room of your home, including in your bedroom by your bed.

Evaluate Pet Behavior: If pets are constantly underfoot or are strong enough to pull you over during a walk, you may want to create strategies – such as gates to keep pets off steps or having someone else walk your dog –to keep both you and your pet safe.

Take Precautions Right Outside Your Home: Make sure pathways and entrances are well lit. Install handrails where there are steps. Have sidewalks regularly pressure washed to eliminate slick spots that build up. Be careful with curbs. Keep your porch, deck, walkways and driveway in good repair and free of leaves, snow, trash, gardening and yard equipment and clutter. Consider nonslip paint on outdoor steps and walkways.

Live On One Level: Consider moving to a home with one floor. If you can’t, take extra care on stairs and try to arrange your life so that climbing steps is kept to a minimum if stairs are challenging for you.

FALL PREVENTION RESOURCES

Organizations throughout Western North Carolina and Upstate South Carolina can help you assess your fall risk and assist you in eliminating as much of that risk as possible through classes and training programs.

Resources Include: WNC Fall Prevention Coalition https://Sites.Google.com/View/ WNCFallPreventionCoalition/Home

YMCA of Western North Carolina’s Moving for Better Balance Classes YMCAWNC.org/Moving-Better-Balance

YMCA and Land of Sky Regional Council Area Agency on Aging’s A Matter of Balance Classes YMCAWNC.org/Matter-of-Balance

Land of Sky Regional Council Programs and Classes LandofSky.org/FallPrevention.html

High Country Falls Prevention Coalition HighCountryAging.org/Resources/ Fall-Prevention

Healthy Aging NC HealthyAgingNC.com/ A-Matter-of-Balance-Fall-Prevention

Fifty Upstate Landrum Aging Well Center FiftyUpstate.org/Centers

Hearing Well Means Staying Well

Regular Medical Check-ups are Key to Dealing with Age-Related Hearing Loss and its Effects

Hearing loss can have serious consequences to your health beyond the frustration of not being able to hear well or at all. It can result in mental health issues, physical health issues and major safety concerns including:

• Depression due to isolation;

• Faster cognitive decline resulting in dementia due to isolation;

• Significant increase in risk of falling due to balance issues;

• Driving impairment due to the inability to hear sirens, horns and other vehicles accelerating;

• Paranoia due to inability to hear environmental sounds and cues; and

• Increased stress from struggling to understand.

Keeping tabs on the ability to hear is an important part of healthy aging. Age-related hearing loss happens gradually, typically over a decade or more, and often goes unnoticed until it becomes significant. Among people 75 and older in the United States, nearly half have difficulty hearing and about one in three between the ages of 65 and 74 has hearing loss.

Although most hearing loss cannot be reversed, it can often be successfully treated

and the earlier it is discovered, the easier it is to adapt to management techniques, hearing aids or other assistive listening devices. Hearing aids and other listening devices also have improved greatly over the last decade in function as well as fashion. Signs of agerelated hearing loss include:

• Having trouble following a group conversation;

• Often thinking people are mumbling;

• A sking people to repeat things;

• Having trouble understanding higher voices like those of women and children;

• Having trouble understanding conversations on the phone;

• Becoming stressed at or avoiding large gatherings because of difficulty hearing in crowds;

• R inging in the ears;

• Dizziness, loss of balance or vertigo;

• Comments from others that your or your loved one’s TV, radio or stereo is loud; and

• Ears that itch, hurt or leak fluid.

Other factors that can contribute to hearing loss include a family history of hearing loss, diabetes, heart disease, or circulation or thyroid issues.

If any of these warning signs describe your or your loved one’s experience, seek medical attention from a physician who will be able to evaluate symptoms and determine whether one or more of the following specialists should be seen:

• A n otolaryngologist, a physician specializing in the ears, nose and throat (ENT);

A n audiologist, a healthcare professional who specializes in identifying auditory disorders, treating them with hearing aids or other devices and monitoring hearing issues; or

A hearing instrument specialist, a licensed professional who can test hearing and select and fit hearing aids.

Taking care of hearing issues makes a huge difference in the quality of life, health and the ability to remain independent. Regular hearing check-ups are an important part of aging well.

LEARN MORE

Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders

Related-Hearing-Loss American Speech-LanguageHearing Association

Hearing-Loss-in-Adults

view local hearing resources,

to page 103.

Living with Dementia

Identifying and Managing Symptoms of Alzheimer’s and Other Dementias

Dementia is difficult for everyone – for the person diagnosed with it, for the family members who become caregivers and even for healthcare providers who do not always have solutions to the many challenging situations this disease can create for patients and their families.

When confronted with dementia – as a patient or caregiver – the best defense is a good offense. Begin by educating yourself about the disease, treatments and lifestyle practices that can work to slow the disease, behaviors and challenges you can expect as the disease progresses and ways to manage life after a dementia diagnosis with as much joy and dignity as possible.

What is Dementia?

Dementia is an umbrella term that covers a multitude of disorders that impair memory to the point that daily functions become difficult or impossible. Alzheimer’s disease, cerebrovascular disease, Lewy body disease, mixed pathologies, frontotemporal lobar degeneration and Parkinson’s disease are some of the more common causes of dementia.

Although dementia is not a normal part of aging, the biggest risk factor for the disease is age. For example, the majority of people with Alzheimer’s dementia are age 65 or older and about a third of people age 85 or older have Alzheimer’s dementia. Breakthroughs on causes and treatments continue but currently, dementia is progressive and has no cure.

Dementia Versus Forgetfulness

It is easy to confuse the very early signs of dementia with typical memory issues we all experience as we age, but they are different. For instance, it is normal to misplace your keys or your glasses. It is not normal – and may be an indicator of dementia – to put your keys or glasses in an unusual place, such as the freezer or in the back of a drawer, and then have no recollection of where you put them.

It is normal to walk into a room in your home and forget your purpose for going there. It is not normal – and may be an indicator of dementia – to walk into a room in your home and for a moment not know where you are. Difficulty performing once routine mathematical tasks such as balancing your checkbook or adding a column of numbers, or feeling excessively challenged when learning new things such as how to work a new appliance, may also indicate a serious memory disorder.

Get Diagnosed – The Sooner, The Better

If you suspect dementia, get a diagnosis from a neurologist who specializes in memory loss and do so as soon as possible. Insist that both the patient and close family members or loved ones are part of the evaluation and are given the opportunity to discuss with the physician what has caused them to suspect dementia. While most patients are well aware that their ability to process information has changed, a loved one is usually in a better position to recall and give details of specific incidents and behavior changes, giving physicians a more complete picture.

While there currently is no cure for dementia, there are medications and lifestyle practices that can slow the progression of the disease especially when a diagnosis is made early. Also, other conditions, such as depression, stress, poor sleep, hearing loss, vision problems, an underlying infection or other illness can worsen symptoms. Simply treating these disorders often can return some memory function.

With a diagnosis in hand, a physician is better able to guide the patient and the family as to how to manage symptoms now to maintain the greatest independence and to give all concerned an idea of what to expect for the future.

Make a Plan

Although only one member of the family may have dementia, everyone in the family is affected. It makes sense to come together as a family in these early stages and put together

a plan of action to care for the patient and manage life as the disease progresses.

As a family, you should decide on roles and responsibilities for everyone who wishes to be part of the care management. Be realistic in your commitments. Dementia is for the long haul. Commit to what you can do and then find resources in the community to help where you and others cannot.

Securing the help of a professional at this point such as a geriatric care manager, a social worker or someone from your local council on aging may be a good idea. These professionals are trained to help you know what to plan for. They can inform you of support services and various resources in your area, help you weigh your housing options and help you navigate the system overall.

continued on next page

Looking for Local Health and Wellness Providers?

Pick up a FREE copy of Healthcare Resources of WNC at one of our 300 locations throughout Hendersonville, Asheville and surrounding areas or search the online directory at HealthcareResourcesWNC.com

Tips for Helping Someone with Dementia

Being there for someone with dementia can pose challenges but there are approaches that can help, many of which involve being supportive, compassionate and understanding of changes caused by the disease.

Simplify: Talk about one thing at a time, use fewer words and speak slowly. Sharing too much information and multitasking can be confusing and overwhelming. Realize that logic does not apply to an illogical disease.

Let your loved one carry out tasks: Offer to help but also be willing to not help so your loved one has the chance to feel good about accomplishing something on his or her own.

Use memory aids: Lists, signs, dry-erase boards, alarm clocks and calendars can help as can having designated spots for commonly misplaced items.

Be attuned to eyesight and hearing issues: Vision and hearing problems can worsen – and in some cases can mimic – dementia symptoms. Peripheral vision can be lost and perception can change, too,

as the disease progresses. Make sure your loved one has his or her eyesight and hearing checked regularly, especially if he or she is having trouble with avoiding obstacles, seeing well even when wearing glasses, struggling to follow a conversation or having problems with balance.

Show and tell: Visually communicating with your loved one is as important as talking with him or her so be sure to show and say what you mean. To assist with his or her comprehension, make your loved one’s living space as free as possible of distractions such as visual clutter and noises. Use hand gestures, visual cues and prompts to help convey what you mean.

Go down memory lane: Reminisce about the past by looking at old photographs and mementos and telling stories from days gone by.

Practice patience and kindness: Reassure your loved one and focus on his or her feelings rather than the facts. Apologize and say “I’m sorry” regularly when he or she is frustrated, sad or angry. Respond with affection through smiles and hugs.

With dementia, moving to an assisted living facility, using adult day care or needing roundthe-clock care — may become necessary as the disease progresses. With a plan, these transitions can become easier financially and emotionally for everyone.

Housing Considerations

Someone with memory impairment functions better in familiar surroundings. To that end, it is to everyone’s advantage to move the person with dementia into the care situation chosen before rather than after the full force of that care is needed. By making a move before dementia progresses, individuals can make friends, get used to routines and form relationships with staff while they still have the ability to do so.

As you look at living situations, focus on the goal of only moving your loved one only once if possible. Consider places that offer both assisted and skilled care in the same building or at least on the same campus. If symptoms worsen and skilled nursing becomes necessary, it is healthier for your loved one to be in familiar surroundings with people he or she trusts. Staying put also increases opportunities for independence, reduces your loved one’s fear and makes it easier for friends who live on-site to visit.

Prioritize Support for the Caregivers

Part of every plan for dementia care must be to care for the caregivers. This means ensuring caregivers don’t overcommit themselves and that their needs and desires also are considered. They should take time to join

a support group online or in person for emotional support as well as to gain insight and strategies for managing the disease. Respite care should be built into the schedule to ensure caregivers have time for rest and for living their own lives.

Remember that the care plan is not written in stone. The person with dementia and the caregivers should feel free to change it as circumstances and abilities change. For instance, a caregiver may commit at first to keeping a loved one at home. As the disease progresses or life circumstances change, this may prove to be too stressful for the caregiver. At that time, the caregiver should feel free to change the plan and find a solution that works better for him or her and the individual receiving care.

Advances in Treatment

With increased scientific research being devoted to Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia, advances in diagnosis and treatment are occurring more rapidly. Medications for memory, treatments for sleep changes, strategies for addressing changing behaviors and a host of alternative therapies are improving the quality of life for dementia patients and their loved ones.

You and Your Family are Not Alone

Millions of people in the United States have dementia and that number is expected to rise as the population continues to live longer. There is nothing easy about the often long course of dementia. But with early diagnosis and a proactive approach to management, both people with dementia and their caregivers can maintain the highest quality of life possible for as long as possible.

LEARN MORE

For a list of 10 early signs of dementia, visit ALZ.org/ Alzheimers_Disease_Know_ the_ 10_Signs.asp.

For updates about advances in treatment and promising clinical research breakthroughs, visit ALZ.org/Alzheimers-Dementia/ Treatments, ALZ.org/Research and ALZ.org/Help-Support/I-HaveALZ/Treatments-Research.

Geriatric Care Managers

Find a certified Geriatric Care Manager or Aging Life Care professional at the Aging Life Care Association at AgingLifeCare.org. Read more about what Geriatric Care Managers do on page 45.

Caring for the Caregiver

Find resources and tips for caregivers on page 52 .

Local Help

Learn about local community resources including Councils on Aging on page 38-44 .

Find local help in the Alzheimer’s/ Dementia and Caregiving Support sections of the Aging Resources Directory on pages 99-100.

Figuring Out When Help Is Needed

help at home can be challenging but answers often can be determined by observing personal appearance, home upkeep and driving abilities. Asking these questions can shed light on how loved ones are feeling and managing daily activities:

Personal Appearance and Demeanor

• Do they stand up straight or are they bent over? Are they leaning to one side or having trouble with balance?

• A re they maintaining their normal weight?

• Do they appear to be having trouble seeing or hearing?

• When walking, is their gait strong? Or are they shuffling more than stepping?

nails clean? Is their hair combed?

• A re their clothes clean? Are they dressed appropriately for the weather?

• A re their buttons buttoned properly?

Are zippers zipped?

• Do they seem fatigued, sad, frustrated, upset or confused?

• A re there any signs of substance abuse?

Inside the Home

• Is the home kept the way it always has been or do you see a change?

• Is the kitchen sink clean? Are beds made and floors swept or vacuumed? Are plants alive?

• Is the garbage taken care of correctly?

• Does the pet have food and water?

• A re things that used to be put away now left out?

• If they take medications, are they stored neatly in a sensible place? Using dates on the bottles, can you tell if they are being taken as prescribed?

• Is mail in an unorganized pile? Are unpaid bills left around? Are checks to pay bills written but never sent?

• Does the refrigerator have old, spoiled food or not enough food?

• A re the dishes, glasses, and flatware properly put away and clean?

• Is their bedroom, bathroom and closet dirty or unorganized?

Outside the Home

• Has regular maintenance been carried out on the outside of the house and on other structures?

• A re the gutters clean? Porches swept? Windows washed?

• Has the grass been mowed, the shrubs trimmed and the flowerbeds weeded?

The Car and Driving

• A re there signs the car has been in minor accidents? Any new dents from running into the garage or another bumper?

• Is the car well maintained? What does the change-oil sticker say versus the mileage? Are the fluids full? Is the registration current?

• When you drive with them, can they get in and out of the car with ease?

• Do they drive too slowly? How is their reaction time? Do they tailgate?

• When they drive, do you observe other drivers on the road being annoyed?

• Do you feel afraid when riding with them?

• Do they know where they are going?

• Do they have trouble parking?

• Can they drive safely and confidently at highway speed?

Answers to these questions can serve as indicators of emerging concerns including waning eyesight, hearing problems, issues with movement and walking, depression or other mental health issues, the onset of dementia and more. If you see a pattern of decline, the cause should be determined by a physician to see if any treatments can improve or slow the condition.

As with many issues of aging, there are no hard and fast rules as to when to step in to help. However, if what you have observed leaves you feeling uncomfortable, then trust you have the evidence you need to look into finding necessary support services.

HELPFUL RESOURCES

Tips about transitioning from driving on page 36.

Area Councils on Aging, Geriatric Care Managers and other professionals on pages 38-45.

Home Care and Home Health Care options on page 50.

Aging Resources Directory beginning on page 98.

Transitioning From Driving

When to Consider Using Alternate Transportation

Driving a vehicle is an integral part of American life. But aging can bring changes in vision and response times on the road and health conditions and medications can impact the ability to drive. When it appears that driving is becoming more challenging, it may be time to explore next steps and other transportation options to protect the safety and wellbeing of the driver and others on the road.

Talk About Driving Abilities and Transportation Options

Start by having a candid conversation about your concerns about you or your loved one’s driving abilities as well as about alternative transportation options. If someone stops driving, it’s important to figure out ahead of time transportation needs for errands, appointments and recreational activities.

Being kind, calm and empathetic during these discussions is beneficial to everyone involved.

Observe and Evaluate Driving Skills

A passenger riding along with a driver can assess driving abilities. While such a ridealong is not a test, it is a way to help figure out if someone is having challenges with driving.

According to the AARP, signs to look for include:

• Being easily distracted.

• Having a delayed response to unexpected situations.

• Running lights or stop signs.

• Clipping the curb.

• Exhibiting lane drifting or having trouble changing lanes.

• Misjudging distance.

• Showing a loss of driving confidence

• Getting lost in familiar places.

• Driving too fast or too slow.

• Having trouble moving the foot from the gas to the brake or confusing the two.

• Being pulled over by the police, having dents and scrapes on the vehicle and being involved with accidents – including fender-benders –also indicate that it may be appropriate to evaluate whether or not to drive.

Broaching the Subject of Ceasing to Drive

Because driving is often equated with independence, having a conversation about no longer driving can be a sensitive one. Approach such a conversation with respect, directness and a focus on safety, including those of passengers, pedestrians and other drivers.

Participating in a formal driving assessment performed by a professional who is not a family member can be useful, as can meeting with a family physician who may be able to evaluate how health conditions and medications may be impacting driving ability.

Arrange Alternative Transportation

In the event that you or a loved one stops driving, discuss transportation needs and set up alternatives. Family members and friends can create driving schedules and take turns providing regular transportation. Private ride services such as cab companies, Uber and Lyft may be useful as may be public transportation options.

By having alternate transportation plans in place, you or your loved one can continue to live independently without the worry that can come with driving challenges. And while giving up driving is a transition, ceasing to drive does not have to mean disengaging from socializing, running errands or being active in the community.

DMV and Public Transportation Information

In North Carolina, motorists age 66 and older are required to renew their driver’s licenses every five years. Others generally must renew their licenses every eight years. Learn more at NCDOT.gov/DMV/License-ID/RenewalReplacement/Pages/Default.aspx.

The N.C. Division of Motor Vehicle’s Medical Review Unit Program also evaluates a driver when there are concerns that certain medical conditions – not age alone – might have an impact on the ability to safely operate a motor vehicle. For more information, visit NCDOT. gov/ DMV/License- ID/License-Suspension/ Medical-Review-Program.

In South Carolina, drivers 65 and older must renew their driver’s licenses every five years. Renewing for 10 years may be possible if the driver is younger than 65 More information can be found at SCDMVonline.com/DriverServices/Renewals.

If there are concerns about a person’s ability to drive, doctors and law enforcement officials can request that a motorist’s driving skills be assessed by a SCDMV examiner.

For details on area public transportation services, turn to the Transportation, Appointments and Errands section of the Aging Resources Directory on page 112.

HELPFUL RESOURCES

AAA’s SeniorDriving.AAA.com American Occupational Therapy Association’s Driving and Community Mobility

AOTA.org/Practice/ProductiveAging/Driving/Practitioners.aspx

Find the Help You Need in Your Community

Local Professionals Offer Range of Assistance with Aging Issues

If you’re facing issues related to aging or caregiving and need advice or assistance, help is available through a variety of regional professional resources. Councils on Aging, Area Agencies on Aging, veterans affairs agencies, the N.C. Dept. of Health and Human Services and the South Carolina Department on Aging, geriatric care managers and other resources can all provide helpful information and services.

Councils on Aging and County Resources

Depending on where you live in Western North Carolina or Upstate South Carolina, the Council on Aging or Area Agency on Aging serving the county you live in may offer different services from those in other parts of the region, but they all share the common mission of acting as advocates for elders and providing connections for the assistance you need.

Council on Aging of Buncombe County

The Council on Aging of Buncombe County is an advocate for older adults, providing personal support, assistance and resource coordination to help them stay independent and healthy.

To help older adults receive the services they need, COABC answers questions by phone and helps people complete applications for community-wide services.

COABC offers informational assistance about Medicare and health insurance and also assists older adults with the Affordable Care Act.

COABC helps with such issues as minor home repair, transportation resources, elder justice counseling and some homebound food delivery. Minor home repair services focus on reducing fall risks in the home through the installation of grab bars, hand railings and threshold fixes.

COABC partners with a variety of local agencies and connects clients with other assistance in the community, such as help with ramp installations.

For people who can’t drive or use public transportation, COABC has volunteers who take people to doctor’s appointments, grocery shopping and occasional social trips. SThe Senior Dining and Wellness program offers eligible adults the opportunity to receive free hot meals. Monthly food boxes are delivered by volunteers with COABC to at-risk, homebound elders.

Through its Benefits Enrollment Center, COABC provides application assistance for individuals living in Buncombe County who are on Medicare due to disability or age. COABC provides these individuals with assistance with applications for SNAP, Medicaid, Extra Help and Medicare Savings Programs.

COABC assistance with the Low-Income

Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) program, a federally funded program that helps qualified individuals with their home heating and cooling costs.

The COABC also has an Elder Justice Navigator who provides information and support for older women and men experiencing abuse, neglect and exploitation.

A separate organization – Meals On Wheels of Asheville and Buncombe County – delivers Meals on Wheels in Buncombe County. Council on Aging for Henderson County

For more than 50 years, the Council on Aging for Henderson County has been providing and coordinating services that engage, connect and support local adults as they age. COAHC strives to ensure that no one ages alone through programs that include Meals on Wheels (delivery of meals to homebound seniors), “Lunch at the Sammy” congregate dining and activities liquid nutrition, caregiver services, senior companions and community resource coordination. The Council on Aging also offers seasonal services including a heat-relief assistance

program and shelf-stable meals for inclement weather.

What is Sona Access?

Sona Access is a Medication Support Program that we o er to new and existing patients.

Our goal is to:

Simplify medications for patients and/or their caregivers

Make it easier for patients to take medications consistently

Caregiver support specialists are available at COAHC to assist those caring for a loved one with long-term physical or cognitive conditions. The caregiver specialist can assist with accessing available resources and provide ongoing support. Those qualifying for respite care services may be able to receive a grant to assist with covering costs of in-home services.

Relieve the burden of medication management

Who is a Good Patient For Sona Access?

COAHC also offers support, advice and guidance related to aging, housing assistance, medical appointments, assisted living options and more.

services department, Polk County Senior Services offers drive-thru meal pick-up, Meals on Wheels, educational opportunities, health and wellness promotion and recreational activities.

Transylvania County Council on Aging

Asheville

Phone: (828) 348-3000

Fax: (828) 298-8190

Hendersonville

Transylvania County has a Council on Aging as part of its Social Services department. Its adult services programs offer support to elderly and disabled adults, provide protective services to vulnerable adults and regulate certain residential services.

Phone: (828) 233-0848

Fax: (828) 698-7714

The program is ideal for patients who take multiple medications, multiple times a day. It is also highly beneficial as a tool for caregivers if the patient is unable to take their medications on their own.

Polk County Senior Services

As part of Polk County’s consolidated human

Some examples of patients who would benefit from our medication support program:

In Transylvania County, Meals on Wheels of Brevard provides delivered meals to people who are at least 60 years old, homebound and unable to shop or cook. Services are available temporarily for those recovering from illness or injury.

Patients with complex medication regimens or disease states

Patients who struggle with medication adherence

Patients experiencing a transition of care

Patients who are frequently hospitalized

How Does the Program Work?

Our program has 4 easy steps that repeat on a monthly cycle: Gather, Review, Organize, Manage.

Simplify Medication Management

GATHER MEDICATION:

The Access team gathers the most up-to-date medication information from all prescribing providers, caregivers, and patients

Sona Access is a Medication Support Program that is ideal for caregivers or patients who take multiple medications, multiple times a day. Through a 4-step monthly process, Sona Access can make it easier for patients to take medications consistently and relieve the burden of medication management.

REVIEW MEDICATION:

Visit SonaPharmacy.com/Access for More Information!

Our pharmacist reviews the medications and works with all of the patient’s providers to make sure the patient is receiving the best options for them

Asheville

ORGANIZE MEDICATION:

Phone: (828) 348-3000

Hendersonville

Phone: (828) 233-0848

Fax: (828) 298-8190

MANAGE MEDICATION:

Fax: (828) 698-7714

Our team organizes all of the medications together to create a cycle and packages medications in the way preferred: 7-day pill packs, bubble packs, or bottles

Patients and caregivers enjoy an ongoing relationship with our Access team through monthly check-ins and regular medication updates

Area Agencies on Aging

The Land of Sky Regional Council’s Area Agency on Aging covers Buncombe, Henderson, Madison and Transylvania Counties. The Foothills Regional Commission serves as the Area Agency on Aging for Polk and Rutherford Counties, in addition to Cleveland and McDowell. The Southwestern Commission Area Agency on Aging covers Haywood County, as well as Cherokee, Clay, Graham, Jackson, Macon and Swain Counties and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. The High Country Area on Aging serves Yancey County in addition to Alleghany, Ashe, Avery, Mitchell, Watauga and Wilkes Counties.

In South Carolina, the Appalachian Council of Governments serves as the Area Agency

on Aging for Spartanburg County as well as Anderson, Cherokee, Greenville, Oconee and Pickens Counties.

All of these Area Agencies on Aging are part of a national network of aging agencies established by the federal Older Americans Act. While local Councils on Aging provide direct services, Area Agencies on Aging support older adults living independently through planning, resource development and partnering with Councils on Aging and other organizations.

In addition to being resources for older adults and their caregivers to contact when seeking information about age-related issues, offerings from Area Agencies on

continued on page 44

Aging can include family caregiver support services, foster grandparent programs, health promotion and disease prevention, longterm care ombudsmen, regional and county aging planning, senior community services employment programs, senior companion programs, information about legislation and resources for people caring for people with dementia.

Veteran-Specific Resources

Based in Asheville, the Charles George VA Medical Center provides healthcare and wellness services to US military veterans and their families. In addition to serving veterans’ overall health, the VA Medical Center offers assistance related to geriatrics including extended care rehabilitation, psychogeriatric care, general nursing home care and caregiver support. The VA Medical Center also has a community-based outpatient clinic in Rutherford County.

The North Carolina Dept. of Military and Veterans Affairs provides a system to assist veterans and their families with a variety of issues. The state agency also oversees four skilled care homes for veterans, including one in Black Mountain in Buncombe County.

Through this state agency, Veterans Service Offices also have been established throughout the state for veterans and their families to receive assistance with benefits, claims questions and other issues.

The Veterans Administration operates medical clinics for veterans in Upstate South Carolina, including in Spartanburg and Greenville. The South Carolina Dept. of Veterans Affairs

offers a variety of resources related to claims assistance, health care, mental health, consumer affairs, military service member and family programs and more. Each county has a veterans affairs office. South Carolina also has three state veterans nursing homes.

State Agencies

Through its Division of Aging and Adult Services, the North Carolina Dept. of Health and Human Services works to promote the independence and enhance the dignity of North Carolina's older adults. This state agency includes an Adult Protective Services Division, the work of which is carried out by county Dept. of Social Services (DSS) offices. In South Carolina, the Long Term Care Ombudsman Program, the Vulnerable Adults Investigation Unit of the SOuth Carolina Law Enforcement Division and the Adult Protective Services Program of the Dept. of Social Services investigate allegations of abuse, neglect and exploitation. If you are concerned that an older adult is suffering from abuse, neglect or exploitation, contact your local DSS office. DSS workers can evaluate and help determine if an elderly individual is in need of assistance or protective services.

AGING RESOURCES DIRECTORY

Turn to page 98 for more helpful resources in our Aging Resources directory.

Geriatric Care Managers

Possessing backgrounds typically in nursing, social work, elder care, psychology or counseling, geriatric care managers are qualified health and human services workers who can be hired to offer personalized, holistic assistance and planning for older adults and people with disabilities. These professionals act as advocates and focus on helping you or your loved one stay independent, healthy and safe.

Geriatric care managers can be especially helpful for caregivers who don’t live near their loved ones. Working with families and caregivers, they use their expertise to assess, problem-solve, plan and monitor older adults’ living and healthcare situations. Examples of the help they can provide include:

• Assessing a loved one’s social, emotional and medical status including problems with memory loss and related dementia.

• Interacting with and facilitating communication with a healthcare team.

• Evaluating, recommending and helping coordinate moves to appropriate long-term care housing.

• Supporting and helping loved ones and families cope with care options and concerns and helping them reach a consensus about long-term care planning.

• Connecting with community resources available for older adults.

• Intervening when a crisis occurs such as an emergency room visit and overseeing a hospitalization or rehabilitation stay.

• Reviewing and overseeing bill paying, assisting with insurance companies and working with financial advisors and attorneys.

The Aging Life Care Association offers more information about geriatric care management as well as an online searchable database for finding a professional in your area at AgingLifeCare.org.

Exploring Home Care and Home Health Care

Determining the Care You Need for Various Life Situations

You or a loved one may need assistance with daily living tasks such as bathing, getting dressed or running errands. Or perhaps you or your family member needs medical care such as skilled nursing, physical therapy or prescription management. Home care and home health care services are available to address all of these needs and to help you maintain your independence and quality of life in your own home. By understanding the differences between these two options, you can craft a care plan that best suits you or your loved one both in terms of the help you need and how you will pay for the care you receive.

Home Care

Home care services require no doctor’s orders, can be contracted for 24 hours a day and can continue as long as someone wishes. Home care involves custodial care and is sometimes also referred to as personal care, attendant care, non-medical care or companion care.

Home care services can include meal preparation, personal care, light housekeeping, shopping and other errands, and companionship. Some home care agencies offer geriatric care management, a service that oversees and coordinates all the outside services in a client’s home — from hiring a lawn service to coordinating medical-related home health care visits and more.

Although often crucial to being able to stay independent at home, home care typically is not covered by health insurance, but it may be covered by a long-term care policy if you or your loved one happens to have one.

When looking for a home care agency, ask if the home care agency:

• Can provide services within 24 hours of a request;

• Offers services any hour of the day and every day of the week;

• Sends a substitute home care aide if the assigned aide is unable to come;

We are { caregivers

Care

day.

have their best day,

home

loved ones

• Is bonded and insured for up to $1 million; and

• Conducts criminal background checks and does other pre-employment screening of their employees.

Because the cost of home care is typically out of pocket, some people consider hiring an individual themselves instead of using an agency. If you are exploring that option, consider running criminal and other background checks on the caregiver and get client references. If you go the non-agency route, you also will need to make a plan for:

• What happens when the individual caregiver is ill or unavailable;

• Withholding taxes, Social Security and Workers’ Compensation Insurance;

• Homeowner’s insurance that would cover if a caregiver is hurt on the job;

• Hiring an individual caregiver with flexibility to change with your needs; and

• What actions to take should the caregiver harm your family member.

Home Health Care

Home health care is in-home medical care ordered by a doctor. The cost is often covered by private health insurance or Medicare. Home health care procedures are performed by medical professionals and include services such as skilled nursing care, medication management, wound care, physical therapy and disease management training. Home health care professionals are in a patient’s home only long enough to carry out treatment. Home health care is typically prescribed after a hospital stay. A home health care prescription can be taken to any licensed agency covered by your insurance. To be

proactive with your planning, research agencies before a hospitalization occurs. When choosing a provider, be sure the agency:

• Is licensed;

• Accepts your loved one’s insurance;

• Can begin providing services within 48 hours;

• Is on call 24 hours a day;

• Has a policy for you or your loved one to be able to reject particular care providers if you or your loved one don’t like them or feel they are not a good fit; and

• Gives you references from a current patient, a patient’s family member and a business that refers to them.

As we and our loved ones age, there may be times when home care and home health care will be needed. By understanding what these different services offer, the most appropriate in-home help can be found.

HOME CARE RESOURCES

North Carolina home care agency licenses can be checked at the N.C. Division of Health Service Regulation at NCDHHS .gov/ DHSR/ Reports.htm.

A comparison of home health care agencies, a checklist for interviewing and more tips for finding the right agency can be found at Medicare’s page at Medicare.gov/ HomeHealthCompare.

More about local Home Care and Home Health Care providers and services they provide can be found on our chart on page 50.

GIVENS ESTATES HEALTH CENTER

Located on a beautiful 215-acre campus in Asheville, Givens Estates Health Center is a Medicare certified Skilled Nursing Facility. We provide short-term rehabilitation, long-term care services, as well as short-term rest and recovery stays to on-campus and community individuals. Services include, but are not limited to:

requiring ongoing skilled care and daily supervision maintain the highest level of independence with our focus on each individual’s well-being and comfort. Experience accommodations specifically designed and furnished for your rehabilitation stay at Givens Estates.

Barrett Lane

HIGHLAND FARMS HEALTH CARE CENTER

the base of the Western

Carolina mountains, Givens Highland Farms has been providing care in the charming town of Black Mountain for more than 50 years. Offering both short- term rehabilitation stays and long-term care, our 5-Star Rated Skilled Nursing Facility provides onsite inpatient personalized care from experienced and compassionate staff. Our short-term rehabilitation program allows our therapy team to personalize your recovery goals and work closely with you and your family to ensure the best outcomes.

your stay is temporary or longer,

will have a special plan of care prepared

our health care team. Our goal is to meet your physical, emotional, and social needs, while assuring that your care is consistent.

your physician

WOOD ASSISTED LIVING

Wood Assisted Living, located at Givens Estates in Asheville, is a special combination of housing, supportive services, and personalized care. Supportive services are available 24 hours a day by licensed nursing staff. Life enrichment, ministerial and spiritual counseling, on-site physician, and pharmacy services are also provided for all residents.

offer a variety of floor plans and accommodations across 45 residential apartments. Choices range from studio apartments with kitchenettes to two person occupancies. Enjoy our restaurant-style dining experience, full-service salon, covered and uncovered outside patios, and therapy gym. Residents will find plenty to keep them active with access to campus amenities and integrated on-campus activities with the Givens Estates community.

fitness center

indoor pool

art and pottery studio

Wesley Drive

outdoor walking and hiking trails

gardens and greenhouse

library and computer room

Best Care

Care Home Care

Hospice

Buncombe, Henderson,

Transylvania

Home Health

Buncombe, Henderson, Haywood, Madison, Mitchell, Transylvania

CenterWell Home Health

Buncombe, Henderson,

Choice Care Your Way

Care

Home Care

Seasons Home Care

Seasons

Buncombe,

Transylvania

Home Health

Buncombe, Henderson,

Helpers

Carolina

New name, same dedicated care

Kindred at

what

Caring for Yourself When You’re a Caregiver

Strategies for Taking Care of Your Needs While Caring for a Loved One

If you are a caregiver for a chronically ill, disabled or elderly family member, you are not alone – nearly a third of the U.S. population provides such care during any given year, spending an average of 20 hours a week on caregiving, according to the Caregiver Action Network.

As a caregiver, you know first-hand the challenges of finding balance in your life while caring for someone else. Juggling your own personal and family obligations as well as those of the person whom you’re caring for can be difficult and sometimes feel impossible.

As a result, it’s not uncommon to neglect your own needs and become depressed, frustrated, exhausted and physically ill. Sadly, caregiver burnout also can result in resentment of and

anger towards the person you’re caring for and – in the worst-case scenario – unintentional abuse or neglect of that elderly or disabled loved one.

By making self-care a priority, you are not only helping yourself as an individual but also

as a family member and caregiver. Here are some strategies for taking care of yourself in the midst of caregiving:

Focus on Healthy Habits

• Do what you can to get enough rest and quality sleep, including taking naps when you can.

• Incorporate exercise into your regular routine, even if it’s just in short stints.

• Avoid junk food and fast food and eat nutritious meals and snacks.

• Drink plenty of water and don’t overdo caffeinated beverages.

• Don’t postpone your own regular medical check-ups.

• Avoid abusing tobacco, alcohol or drugs, including prescription medications.

Ask for Hands-on Help From Others

• Adopt an attitude of being willing to accept help from others. Avoid the mindset that you are the only one qualified to take care of your loved one.

• Create a plan for respite care so you can have breaks from caregiving.

• Enlist friends and family members of all ages to help with tasks such as grocery shopping, housework, yard work and taking your loved one to appointments and out recreationally.

• Explore the possibility of contracting home care or home health care for your loved one.

• Consider investing in healthcare-related devices like personal emergency response systems, or PERS, which can give you more peace of mind.

Get Emotional, Psychological and Spiritual Support

• At least once a day – preferably for at least 30 minutes – engage in an activity that gives you joy, such as reading, watching television, listening to or playing music or participating in a hobby like gardening or crafting.

• Carve out some time every day to sit quietly by yourself. Include meditation, prayer or inspirational readings if those activities are enjoyable and fulfilling for you.

• Realize that a range of emotions come with caregiving.

• Participate in caregiving support groups. Communities of caregivers can be found both online and throughout our region.

By taking care of yourself while you are taking care of someone else, you can reduce your stress and lessen the chances for negative impacts, allowing you to feel more joy and satisfaction with the labor of love that is caregiving.

CAREGIVING RESOURCES

Caregiver Action Network CaregiverAction.org

Family Caregiving Alliance Caregiver.org

National Alliance for Caregiving Caregiving.org

Caregiving Advice AARP.org

LEARN MORE ABOUT

How technology can help on page 12 .

Home Care and Home Health Care on page 46-48.

Area Home Care and Home Health Care providers and their services on page 50.

Caregiver Support resources in the Aging Resources Directory on pages 100.

Age in Place with Universal Design

Approaches That Can Help You Maintain Independence Longer

As we grow older and our physical abilities change, our living spaces sometimes need modifications to help us function, prevent falls and stay independent so we can “age in place” in our homes.

Through a design approach called Universal Design, or UD, we can make our homes more accessible, operational and safe.

UD often involves simple, small changes that can make huge differences. For example, retrofitting a home using UD can be as easy as changing lighting to reduce glare, installing wall-to-wall carpet, putting up two handrails on staircases or making thresholds smooth. Such changes actually benefit everyone and make living easier and more secure for people of all ages and abilities, from toddlers to seniors.

Universal Design sometimes can call for more involved remodeling, like making a barrierfree bathroom with a walk-in tub or roll-in shower. Creating a more accessible kitchen may include appliances at lower heights and cabinets with roll-out shelves and handles rather than knobs. These UD elements are a bigger investment but are still less expensive and less disruptive than having to move from home to an assisted living or care facility. Retrofitting a home using UD also can be done gradually as your budget allows and on an “as needed” basis.

If you are building a home, you are in a great position to incorporate UD options into your new space such as wider hallways for wheelchairs or walkers, lower light switches,

higher electrical outlets and blocks behind walls to accommodate grab bars if they are needed later. The cost of incorporating UD into the design of a new home is minimal, while having UD throughout the house can add great value for resale.

Interior designers and homebuilders who are Certified Aging in Place (CAP) specialists can help you decide which Universal Design elements to bring into your current home or to add to your new home’s blueprints.

UNIVERSAL DESIGN RESOURCES

The RL Mace Universal Design Institute UDInstitute.org

The National Aging In Place Council AgeinPlace.org

AARP HomeFit Guide AARP.org/Livable-Communities/ Housing/Info-2020/ Homefit-Guide.html

USC Leonard Davis’ School of Gerontology’s Interactive Website LifetimeHome.org

University at Buffalo’s Center for Inclusive Design and Environmental Access Idea.ap.Buffalo.edu/About/ Universal-Design/

Certified Aging in Place (CAP) Specialist Directory in the National Association of Home Builders NAHB.org/Education-and-Events/ Education/Designations/CertifiedAging-in-Place-Specialist-CAPS

A Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation Center

and Arrange Your Personal Tour at One of Our Three Beautiful Locations

The Laurels of GreenTree Ridge

Perched on a scenic tree-lined ridge, The Laurels of GreenTree Ridge is located less than two miles from Memorial Mission Hospital in Asheville, North Carolina. Our 92-bed skilled nursing facility is easily accessible from Interstate 40 and the neighboring, historic Biltmore Estate.

Laurels of GreenTree Ridge provides both short-term and long-term

independence and high quality living.

Sweeten Creek Road, Asheville, NC 28803

The Laurels of Hendersonville

A 120-bed skilled nursing and rehabilitation center, The Laurels of Hendersonville is located just outside historic downtown Hendersonville. Among our many amenities is a gazebo area which provides the perfect setting for our guests to enjoy quiet time or socialization. The Laurels of Hendersonville provides long-term care, short-term rehabilitation, respite, hospice care, and veteran's services. They are able to provide IV therapy, wound care and other complex medical services to their guests.

Clear Creek Road, Hendersonville, NC

The Laurels of Summit Ridge

Located adjacent to the beautiful Blue Ridge Parkway, The Laurels of Summit Ridge is a 68-bed skilled nursing and rehabilitation center, with a 23-bed assisted living unit, just a half mile from the VA Medical Center and five miles from Mission St. Joseph Hospital.

Laurels of Summit Ridge offers short term rehabilitation, hospice care, respite care, long term care and assisted living. We provide high quality, comprehensive health care for each guest.

Riceville Road, Asheville, NC 28805

Universal Design Options That Can Make Life Easier

Lights that turn on when

approach

home

No-glare lights for general lighting

task lighting

R ails on both sides of stairs

R aised electric outlets

Lowered rocker light switches

Programmable thermostats

Remote-controlled lighting, window blinds and other home systems

Drawers instead of cabinets in kitchen

D -shaped cabinet and drawer pulls

Wall-to-wall carpet rather than throw rugs

Wires neatly managed,

Grab bars by toilets and

Elevated toilets

Roll-in showers

floors

Non-slip, low-maintenance floors in bathrooms

K itchen, bedroom, bathroom and laundry on one floor

Side-by-side refrigerator/freezer

R aised or lowered dishwasher

Counter-height microwave

Flat cooktop with front controls

Stoves and sinks with open space underneath for someone seated

Separate, comfort-height wall oven

Varied counter heights so cooks can sit or stand

Beveled corners on counters, furniture and walls

R aised, front-load, front-control washer and dryer

• 36 -inch-wide doorways and hallways to accommodate wheelchairs

Hand-held shower heads on glides

Aging Life Care™ Managers Provide Guidance & Solutions During the Challenging Times of Aging

As advocates for aging adults, Mountain Area Premier Care Navigation (MAP CN) care managers are compass creators for seniors and their families. Tapping into several decades of experience with extensive knowledge of local and national resources, Aging Life Care™ Managers create a successful care map for each client based upon their unique needs. MAP CN operates in a village capacity and finds solutions for seniors’ needs. They serve as translators between health systems and clients, facilitators of conversation with family members, as well as collaboration with blended families of second marriages.

Navigation Assistance

After an initial assessment, clients are matched to a care manager best suited to their needs.

• MAP CN conducts an initial assessment. This can be as light touch as a one-time phone consultation, or as involved as an assessment in the home or facility. Support can continue indefinitely as is directed by the client.

• MAP CN communicates with health care providers, serving as a medical advocate for the care the client wishes to receive.

• MAP CN arranges for in-home care or alternative living assistance, helping the senior and/or family choose the best option for them and determine how much care is needed.

• MAP CN provides a “Just in Case” Safety Net for healthy, solo seniors. In the event of an emergency, the MAP CN team is on call to help advocate and navigate the health care system. Annual check-in allows all parties to remain up to date on any changes in health or their wishes for care.

• MAP CN provides A La Carte Services, assisting with as little or as much help as needed.

Above the Rest

MAP CN care managers are clinically focused, well-versed in senior care and possess comprehensive skill sets. Staff have a minimum of Masters' level of education in their subject areas, from social work to nursing to physical therapy. MAP CN serves all of WNC. Owner, Lisa Laney states "Care management's priority is stellar communication and with this comes desired quality results."

“

Meet Lisa Laney, Owner

MSW, CMC Aging Life Care Professional

Lisa has worked with the aging population in the healthcare system in WNC since 1988. Her MSW is from UNC-CH with dual concentrations in Aging and Health. Lisa has been a leadership member of the Asheville Parkinson's Support Group for over 12 years. She also served many years as a Director on the Board of Aging Life Care Association (ALCA).

..been working with Lisa and her team for over 5 years. Caring for my mom from NY would have been impossible without their support and expertise. Their deep roots in the Asheville area, compassion, sensitivity, sound advice and--when needed--loving sense of humor have been important to me. Mom is surrounded by people who genuinely care about her, and are they are there for me too.”

- A.Holder, NYC

“As my wife's dementia progressed, I was floundering with ever-increasing responsibilities. It was my good fortune to be introduced to Lisa Laney and her company. I value Lisa’s expertise, knowledge, and commitment to premium quality care for her clients.”

- Paul Nelson, Asheville

,

Meet the Team:

Seniors Real Estate Specialists®

Trust an Expert as You Prepare for Your Next Move

To better address the unique needs of home buyers and sellers who are 50 years old and older, some REALTORS® earn the SRES® – or Seniors Real Estate Specialist® – designation.

The SRES® designation indicates that a REALTOR® has demonstrated the necessary knowledge and expertise to counsel clients age 50 and older through the major financial and lifestyle transitions involved with relocating, refinancing or selling their home.

SRES® designees recognize that a home is often the largest and most precious asset that older adults have and these certified senior specialists can help with navigating the financial and emotional aspects of selling a long-held family home.

REALTORS® with the SRES® designation have knowledge about a range of seniorrelated aspects of home ownership including things like managing capital gains and tax

implications, how Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security affect real estate decisions for senior citizens, how Universal Design can help seniors stay independent in their homes and how to avoid loan schemes and scams that target older adults.

SRES® designees have specific training and experience related to assisting older adults with real estate transactions, including:

• Creating a customized plan to market and sell your property;

• Understanding your unique needs and creating a personalized plan to ensure your home meets those needs now and in the future;

• Utilizing specialized knowledge in reverse mortgages, 401(k) accounts and IRAs for your real estate transaction; and

• Connecting you with a network of movers, attorneys, CPAs, home inspectors and other experts to help you through the process.

MORE ABOUT SRES ®

For more about REALTORS® with the SRES® designation visit SRES.org.

To find Seniors Real Estate Specialists® in your area, visit our Resource Directory on page 112 .

YOUR TRUSTED ADVISOR

CREATIVE DOWNSIZING

Simplify Possessions for a Manageable Life

Downsizing Household Items can Help Prepare You for Your Next Transition

Maybe your children are grown and living on their own and you find yourself with more house – and more possessions – than you need or want. Perhaps you want to trade your life in a multi-story house with a basement for one in a retirement community with one level and less upkeep. Or maybe you are thinking of moving to an assisted living or skilled nursing facility.

Reducing the number of household items you own may better suit your needs at this stage in your life and there are many professionals and resources that can help with this transition.

Consider Hiring a Professional Sorting through and getting rid of possessions – especially in a home where you’ve lived for many years – can feel daunting particularly if you have a lot of household items of yours and your loved ones.

You may benefit from employing the services of professionals who specialize in sorting and organizing, managing paperwork and documentation, selling items through estate sales, coordinating the donation of possessions to charity and arranging packing and moving.

Professional organizers include Senior Move Managers who are members of the National Association of Senior & Specialty Move Managers. The organization has a searchable database of Senior Move Managers® at NASMM.org.

Tips for Tackling Downsizing Tasks

To do some downsizing yourself, start by honestly evaluating what items you need and currently use in your life and think about what you really will need – or won’t – in your next living arrangement.

When considering what to do with items, categorize items as those to “keep,” “sell or donate,” “see if a family member wants” or “throw out.” Using color-coded stickers to indicate which category an item falls into or putting items into different designated piles also can help during the sorting process. Because it’s easy to become overwhelmed, pace yourself, enlist the help of friends and loved ones if possible and limit your sorting and purging sessions to no more than two hours at a time.

If you have possessions that you think friends and loved ones would like, invite them over to take items for themselves, perhaps at a “downsizing party.” Consider contacting local nonprofit thrift stores and other charities about your donations which may be taxdeductible. Many organizations will come

to your home to pick up furniture and other household items that you want to give away as long as they are in good condition.

Areas to Start With Your Downsizing Include:

• Getting rid of clothing and accessories you haven’t worn in years

• P urging collections of books, magazines, CDs, albums, DVDs and VHS tapes

• Clearing out multiple pieces of furniture, especially ones that are large and bulky

• Disposing of unused exercise equipment, tools, kitchen appliances and other devices

• Weeding out holiday and other decorations

• Passing on keepsakes, old photos and mementos to family members

• Going through paperwork, digitizing important documents and shredding files that are outdated or no longer needed

While the prospect of downsizing may be daunting at first, be encouraged that as an increasing number of older adults adopt a “less is more” lifestyle, there is more help available than ever with transitioning to your next home.

SENIORS REAL ESTATE SPECIALIST® (SRES ®)

REALTORS® with the Seniors Real Estate Specialist® designation specialize in helping clients 50 and older with relocating, refinancing or selling their home.

Your donation to or purchase from the Four Seasons Hospice Home Stores will provide resources and support to those seeking Four Seasons services.

Services include Care Navigation, Home Care, Palliative Care, Hospice Care, and Grief Services as well as access to Clinical Research and Innovation.

215 North Main Street, Hendersonville 21 Long Shoals Road, Arden 444 Asheville Highway, Brevard (828) 696.0625 FourSeasonsFDN.org

HOSPICE HOME STORE

Understanding Different Types of Senior Housing

Residential Options for Elders Vary Based on Individual Needs

If you are in the process of searching for senior housing for yourself or a loved one, it’s important to understand the differences in types of housing available for older adults with varying needs. Choices include independent and assisted living facilities, continuing care communities which are also known as life plan communities, family care homes, and nursing homes which are also known as skilled nursing facilities. You aren’t just looking for a roof over your or your loved one’s head – you are searching for a place that has the facilities, staff and services to meet your needs now and in the

future. Understanding the types of housing available, the industry lingo and pertinent state regulations – which vary from service level to service level and state to state – can help ensure you make the right move.

Independent Living

As the name states, independent living refers to a community of apartments and/or singlefamily homes where residents – typically restricted to people 55 years old or older – live on their own without assistance. Some allow you to buy your unit, some are rent only and some offer a choice of either option.

Peace of mind always & all ways

At Pisgah Valley, residents find ease of living, and peace of mind. Not only can they be as active as they choose, residents and their families love the emphasis on whole-person wellness and the peace of mind knowing that a continuum of healthcare including Assisted Living, Rehab and Skilled Nursing are available if needed.

To schedule a visit today call 828.554.7702.

Along with apartments and homes, many of these communities provide amenities such as scheduled social activities, recreational facilities, transportation to and from appointments, housekeeping and laundry services, and full-service dining. Some of these amenities may be included in the facility’s regular monthly fee while others may cost extra.

Independent living facilities are not licensed to provide medical care, home care or home health care, but they can invite a licensed provider to offer on-site care and contract individually with residents. As a resident, you can choose to use the on-site provider or a provider of your choice. Independent living facilities also may be called congregate living or retirement communities.

Assisted Living Assisted living in North Carolina can refer to state-licensed adult care homes, statelicensed family care homes and non-licensed multi-unit assisted housing with services. In South Carolina, these types of living facilities also are referred to as Community Residential Care Facility, or CRCFs.

Adult care homes, which typically have fewer beds than assisted living facilities, offer 24hour supervision and assistance to residents. Licensed by the North Carolina Division of Health Service Regulation and the South Carolina Bureau of Health Facility Licensing, they provide meals, housekeeping, personal care services, medication supervision and management and nursing services as needed.

Family care homes are also licensed by the state and offer 24 -hour supervision, meals and personal care to residents. They operate as any regular family home does and are not required to have nursing staff. Caregivers live on-site, adding to the family atmosphere.

These facilities often maintain an agreement with one licensed home-care or hospice-care agency to provide personal care and nursing services to residents on-site. However, residents are always free to choose their own providers.

Many of these establishments offer a full schedule of activities on-site and opportunities for off-site events. A few also have special wings for dementia care. However, just because an assisted living facility says it has

a memory care unit does not guarantee that the staff is well trained in managing dementia or that state-of-the-art activities are offered. Be sure to ask for staff training and program specifics and spend some time observing the unit.

Assisted living facilities also may be called rest homes or homes for the aged. Whatever name they go by, it is important to know if they are licensed or registered and exactly which services come as part of their standard care and fee and which are charged at an extra cost.

Nursing Homes or Skilled Nursing Facilities Nursing homes – also known as skilled nursing facilities – also are licensed by the North Carolina Division of Health Service Regulation and the South Carolina Bureau

of Health Facility Licensing. They offer the highest level of residential care and are the right choice for short-term inpatient rehabilitation for people recuperating from an accident or illness or for those who are chronically ill and need long-term care.

In addition to a bed and meals, these homes provide round-the-clock monitoring, personal care, nursing care, rehabilitation, medication management and social-work services. Most also offer a schedule of activities and opportunities for socialization.

Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs) or Life Plan Communities

Continuing care retirement communities, which are also known as CCRCs or life plan communities, offer all three levels of care

– independent living, assisted living and nursing home or skilled nursing – all on one campus. Typically, these communities require a buy-in or entrance fee. For this investment, residents are guaranteed the level of care they need at a regulated rate for life. Most CCRCs require that residents be able to live independently at the time of buy-in.

Buying into a CCRC can simplify financial planning and allows residents to establish peace of mind for everyone in the family. Each community must issue and provide potential residents with a disclosure statement on their financial health.

If you or your loved ones are considering a CCRC, it is imperative that you not only

The Care You Trust

understand the terms of your contract but that you also understand the community’s disclosure statement. These contracts usually fall into one of the following categories:

• Extensive contracts are full-service contracts that provide for residents to transfer from on-site independent living to on-site assisted living or skilled nursing when needed for an unlimited time and at little to no additional cost. The CCRC bears the majority of the burden of the residents’ long-term care.

• Modified contracts obligate the CCRC to provide health-related services for a specified number of days at no additional cost or at a subsidized fee. Thereafter, the financial responsibility for long-term care shifts to the resident.

• Fee-for-service contracts give residents guaranteed admission to on-site assisted living or a skilled nursing facility when needed but residents must pay extra for these additional services when used. With this type of contract, the resident bears the full financial burden of additional long-term care needs.

• Equity contracts involve a true real estate purchase. Health-related services with these contracts differ.

• Rental contracts provide for housing, services and guaranteed access to healthrelated services in exchange for monthly rent and service fee.

If you are over 60 and live in Henderson County, why not leave the driving to us! WNCSource can take you almost anywhere you want to go. Our handicap accessible vehicles provide a safe, comfortable ride and door-to-door service to a variety of local destinations.

Shopping and Grocery Routes

– M edical trips to/from doctor’s offices, clinics and hospitals

– S enior Lunch & Light Shopping Program at the Sammy Williams Center

– Elderly and Disabled Transportation Assistance Program (EDTAP)

Monday – Friday Service Based on Availability No cost to ride – donations gladly accepted!

Visit WNCSource.org for more information Call 828-698-8571 to reserve your seat today!

Regardless of how well you believe you understand these CCRC contracts and agreements, it is recommended that you take them to an elder law attorney and/or a CPA who can review them with you.

Careful Evaluation is Key

Making a move to senior housing involves research and planning. Do not be shy about asking questions, requesting to dine with a current resident or asking to spend a weekend or up to a week at any community you or your loved ones are considering. The more information you gather about different properties and their services, their policies and rights as a resident, the better choice you or your loved one will make.

ASSISTED LIVING AND SKILLED CARE RATINGS AND REGULATION

Check on the licensing, inspections, ratings, penalties and more for assisted living and skilled care facilities at the N.C. Division of Health Service Regulation at Info.NCDHHS.gov/DHSR/ACLS/ Star/Search.asp#Info. In South Carolina, visit the S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Control’s Bureau of Health Facility Licensing at SCDHEC.gov/BHFL.

Visit Medicare’s Nursing Home Compare at Medicare.gov/ NursingHomeCompare/Search.html.

Senior Housing Regulation

For licensed assisted living facilities, care homes and nursing homes in North Carolina, to check on any violations and penalties and to see their star ratings from the N.C. Division of Health Services Regulation, visit Info.NCDHHS.gov/ DHSR/Reports.htm.

A Medicare star rating and facility comparison of nursing homes/skilled nursing facilities including those that are part of continuing care retirement communities or life plan communities can be found at Medicare.gov/ NursingHomeCompare.

For comparable information about South Carolina facilities, visit SCDHEC.gov/Health-Regulation/ Healthcare-Facility-Licensing.

CCRCs in the Carolinas

According to the North Carolina Dept. of Insurance, entrance fees for CCRCs can range from a few thousand

dollars to more than $1 million with a typical entrance fee ranging from $68,000 to $370,000. Monthly fees for CCRCs can range from $1,000 to more than $8,000 but typically fall within the $2 ,000 to $4,000 per month range.

The N.C. Dept. of Insurance publishes a CCRC reference guide that can be accessed at NCDOI.gov/Media/1833/ Open . A list of licensed facilities in North Carolina and their related disclosure statements can be found at NCDOI.gov/Documents-Disclosures .

Information from the S.C. Dept. of Consumer Affairs about CCRCs in South Carolina can be found at Consumer.SC.gov/Sites/Default/ Files/Documents/CCRC.pdf and Consumer.SC.gov/BusinessResourcesLaws/Licensing/CCRCs .

A list of licensed facilities in South Carolina can be found at Consumer. SC.gov/Licensee-Lookup.

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Featuring health & wellness articles, tips and announcements, the Aging Resources Newsletter will arrive directly to your email each week. Subscribe to the newsletter at AgingResourcesWNC.com

BUNCOMBE COUNTY

Retirement

Estates

Highland Farms

Estates

Glen Assisted

State Veterans Home

Valley

Health

Laurels of GreenTree Ridge

Laurels of Summit Ridge

HENDERSON COUNTY

Carolina Reserve of Hendersonville

Carolina Reserve of Laurel Park

Carolina Village

Fletcher Park Inn

Health and

Hills

Hendersonville

Laurels of Hendersonville

Lodge at Mills River

MADISON COUNTY

Madison Health & Rehabilitation

TRANSYLVANIA COUNTY

College Walk

Senior Housing Checklist

What to Look for and Ask When Considering a Move to Senior Housing

Thinking about moving to senior housing? Here is a comprehensive checklist of questions to ask and things to consider when evaluating the options for you or a loved one:

The Property

Are the grounds attractive? Is the building well kept? Are the common areas inviting?

Is it handicap accessible? Are hallways and doors wide enough for walkers and wheelchairs?

A re handrails in the hallways? Are there elevators as well as stairs?

Is it well lit?

Does it have a pleasant smell?

Do you like its layout?

Is it easy to find your way around?

How close are amenities like the dining room and recreational areas to living quarters?

Is security on the grounds 24 hours a day, seven days a week?

How far is it from where loved ones live?

The Staff

Are staff present throughout the property?

A re the front-desk staff friendly on the phone and in person?

Is every staff member at every post –front desk, maintenance, housekeeping, healthcare, dining room – appropriately dressed, pleasant and attentive?

A re your phone calls and emails responded to promptly?

Is it easy to reach someone by phone and to leave a message?

Do staff members know residents and address them appropriately?

The Residents

Are the common areas active?

Do residents look well and happy and are they socializing?

When you ask them, what do residents have to say about life in their community and their satisfaction with food, healthcare and other services?

Does the property have a newsletter or monthly calendar of events in print and/or by email or online? If so, check out several months’ worth to see if the frequency of and types of activities offered are appealing to you.

The Food

What dining options are available?

Is there more than one dining room? Are complimentary coffee, tea, water and other beverages available throughout the day? Can you carry out meals to go or have them delivered, and if so, is there an extra charge?

What meals does the dining room serve and how many are included in the monthly fee?

Is the dining room full at dinner?

Taking the Mystery Out of Downsizing.

What foods are available every day? Get sample monthly menus to review.

A re meals for people with special dietary requirements available?

Does the food taste good? Is it presented with pride? Are portions to your liking?

Dine in the dining room at least once.

Take the Downsizing Quiz Today!

Is there a private dining room if you wish to host a special event?

A re special meals offered on holidays?

Services and Amenities

What services are available? Laundry? Housekeeping? Transportation to and from shopping, medical and other appointments, and special events? Wi-Fi?

If transportation is available, how often does it run, how far will they take you and is there an extra charge?

A re there on-site recreational facilities for exercise, games and other activities?

What activities are available daily? What special events are offered? Check out several months of events calendars.

Is there an on-site hair salon or barber?

Is there newspaper delivery, telephone, TV, cable and Internet availability?

A re there accommodations for overnight guests?

Is there assistance with WhatsApp, Zoom, Skype or other video messaging platforms so relatives and friends can visit virtually?

Are any religious services offered?

Costs and Contracts

What exactly is included in the monthly fee?

Which utilities and services are extra?

When can fees be raised and by how much?

What happens if your funds run out?

Do you need renters insurance?

What can result in termination of your lease or contract? Read your lease or contract and make sure you understand everything in it. If you don’t, consult an attorney. If buying into a continuing care retirement community, or CCRC, or life

plan community, be sure to receive a contract and financial disclosure.

What are your rights as a resident?

Is there a resident council? What is the grievance procedure?

Your Living Space

In Independent Living

What floor plans are available?

A re pull cords throughout the residence in case of accident or emergency? Is 24 -hour emergency response available?

Can you control your own heat and air conditioning?

Is the bathroom walker and wheelchair accessible?

Can you open your windows? continued on next page

Hendersonville’s

Can you have a washer and dryer in the apartment and/or is there a common laundry room or on-site laundry service?

Who has access to your apartment or home and under what conditions?

If the campus has assisted living and skilled nursing, how does the transition to a different living arrangement work?

Can you stay in an apartment overnight or longer to see how you like it?

A re pets allowed? If so, are there restrictions? Is there a place to walk dogs? Is a dog walker available?

In Assisted Living and Skilled Nursing

Can you lock your windows and doors?

Who else has access to your room and under what conditions?

Can couples live together in assisted living and skilled nursing rooms?

A re rooms private or doubles?

If doubles, can you request a private room and if so, what is the charge?

A re pets allowed? If so, what are the restrictions?

Healthcare Services For Independent Living

Is medical staff on site? If so, what are their hours?

What healthcare services – such as medication management, care during illness and physical therapy – are offered onsite? What is the cost?

Can you hire home care or home health care if needed and remain in independent living?

Keep Up With Aging Resources Magazine

Weekly by Subscribing to the Email Newsletter!

Featuring health & wellness articles, tips and announcements, the Aging Resources Newsletter will arrive directly to your email each week. Subscribe to the newsletter at AgingResourcesWNC.com.

At what point does a resident need to move from independent living to assisted living and who makes that decision? What are your rights should you disagree?

For Assisted Living

Is it a licensed assisted living facility or multi-unit assisted housing with services?

What healthcare and daily-living support services are available?

A re services all-inclusive or offered as levels of care?

What is the staff-to-resident ratio and staff turnover rate?

At what point of care does a resident need to move from assisted living to skilled nursing and who makes that decision?

What are your rights should you disagree?

Is there a dementia care unit? If so, how is staff trained and what special services are offered?

What are the daily scheduled activities?

For Skilled Care

Is the facility licensed by the state? Does it have any violations? Can you choose your own doctor?

What healthcare and daily-living support services are included in the fee? What is extra?

What is the staff-to-resident ratio and staff turnover rate?

COLLEGE WALK SENIOR LIVING,

My life is easier here at College Walk. The staff here are one of a kind. So happy I made the move. - Dottie M.

Assisted living was the right choice for me. Food service, housekeeping, and medication management delivered by exceptional staff. - Mike B.

It’s so wonderful that my out-of-town children know I am still being cared for and I have people around me, should I need help. -Edna W.

N. College Row, Brevard, NC 828.884.5800

How to Pay for the Care You Need

Resources for Figuring Out How to Cover Elder Care Costs

Challenged with how to pay for elder care services for you or a loved one? The following online resources can help you figure out how you may be able to cover these costs.

ACL.gov/LTC

Managed by the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, this website can help you answer questions about:

• The costs of long-term care.

• Disability and health insurance and how they may or may not pay for long-term care.

• Long-term care insurance and what it covers, when coverage begins, how to shop for it, where to look for it and what the costs are.

• How you may be able to use life insurance to pay for long-term care through

Combination (Life/Long-Term Care)

Products, Accelerated Death Benefits or ADBs, life settlements or viatical settlements.

• How to pay privately for services through reverse mortgages, annuities and trusts.

Benefits.gov

Run by the federal government, this website is a single source of benefit information set up to help citizens understand which federal benefit programs they may be eligible for and how to apply. Based on the answers you provide, the website’s Benefit Finder can generate benefits you may be eligible for, including health and medical cost assistance.

“Our Team Works Together to Give You Peace of Mind”

Caroline Knox is a Board-Certified Elder Law and Special Needs Attorney. She has surrounded herself with dedicated professionals to assist clients in planning for their future and addressing immediate needs as changes in life occur.

Caroline recognized a significant need in the community for a comprehensive approach to assisting aging adults, and the Knox Law team specializes in estate planning and administration, asset preservation, fiduciary management, Medicaid applications, and geriatric case management.

At the request of clients or the court, Caroline serves as power of attorney or guardian. In this capacity, Knox Law provides a range of services that include arranging medical appointments, managing healthcare and household services, paying bills, setting up an emergency contact network, making funeral arrangements, assisting with moves to care facilities and organizing home cleanouts.

Caroline says:

Fiduciary Management

Administration

Planning

at Knox Law cares, and there’s a feeling of family that carries into the work we do.”

BenefitsCheckup.org

The National Council on Aging online BenefitsCheckUp can help you find federal and state benefit programs that may help your family pay for health care, medications, family caregiver support, respite care and more.

NIA .NIH.gov/Health/Paying-Care

Through this website, the National Institute on Aging offers options to consider when facing paying for long-term care including:

• Personal funds such as personal savings, pensions or other retirement funds, income from investments in stocks and bonds and proceeds from the sale of a home.

• Government programs and assistance offered through the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, Medicare, Medicaid, Programs of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACEs), State Health Insurance Assistance Programs, the U.S. Dept. of Veterans Affairs and Social Security.

• Private funding options such as long-term care insurance, reverse mortgages, life insurance, annuities and trusts.

Money Follow the Person Demonstration Project

Money Follows the Person (MFP) is a North Carolina Medicaid demonstration project that assists people who live in qualified facilities in moving into their own communities with supports.

• MFP supports North Carolinians in having more choices about where they receive their long-term supports.

• MFP identifies and addresses barriers to receiving quality, community-based, longterm care and supports.

• Participation in MFP is voluntary and funded through a partnership between NC Department of Health and Human Services and the federal Medicaid agency, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.

Participant Benefits:

• MFP participants who meet service eligibility requirements will receive priority access to Medicaid community-based service packages known as Medicaid waivers, or may enroll in the Program for All-inclusive Care for the Elderly.

More About Medicare Learn more on pages 86 -88.

Community Resources

Read on page 38-44 about local Councils on Aging, Area Agencies on Aging, Veterans Affairs contacts and other resources that might be able to assist with care costs.

• Transition “Start Up” Funding: MFP provides additional funding in order to secure items and services needed to transition. This typically includes: pre-transition staff training, security deposits, utility start-up expenses, furniture, accessibility modifications or other one-time items and services that may be required to transition.

You can't predict the future, so plan for it.

Be Prepared for Long-Term Care Costs

Leslie J Apple, AAMS™

Financial Advisor

Like everyone, you’d like to enjoy a long, healthy, independent life. But the future is unknowable, so it’s a good idea to prepare for a variety of outcomes – including the possible need for long-term care.

4 Olde Eastwood Village Blvd

Consider the following:

Suite 204 Asheville, NC 28803 828-505-0490

• Someone turning age 65 today has almost a 70% chance of eventually needing some type of long-term care service, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

lower the premiums. On the other hand, if you buy a straight long-term care policy when you’re young, you could end up paying premiums for many years for coverage you may never need. A financial advisor can help you evaluate all your insurance options and recommend which one, if any, is appropriate for your situation.

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• The median annual cost for a private room in a nursing home is about $105,000, and it’s almost $55,000 for home health aide services, according to the insurance company Genworth. Medicare also may cover very few of these costs. Consequently, it’s a good idea to include potential long-term care costs in your planning. While everyone’s situation is different, you may want to budget for two to three years’ worth of long-term care expenses. But how can you prepare for these costs? Essentially, you’ve got three options:

• You could self-insure. If you would like to cover the costs of long-term care out of your own pocket, you’ll need to consider a few issues: How will these potential costs affect your family? How might your other goals be affected, or even altered, by your decision to self-insure? Will you have to adjust your investment mix or designate certain investments to help achieve your self-funding objectives? None of these questions should dissuade you from trying to self-fund for long-term care, but they can help you clarify the significance of this choice within your overall financial strategy.

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You can't predict the future, so plan for it.

• You could combine self-insurance with an insurance policy. You could plan to selfinsure for long-term care for a limited time – perhaps one year’s worth of anticipated costs – and then buy enough insurance for additional expenses. This technique could involve some juggling on your part, in terms of where to direct your money, but it might prove to be a workable compromise between self-insurance and putting all your long-term care resources into an insurance policy. Which of these methods is right for you? There’s no one “right” answer for everyone. But whichever route you choose, you’ll be helping to protect yourself – and possibly your grown children or other family members – from the potentially huge costs of long-term care. And that protection can help brighten your outlook throughout your retirement.

You can't predict the future, so plan for it.

You can't predict the future, so plan for it.

Leslie J Apple, AAMS™

Financial Advisor

4 Olde Eastwood Village Blvd Suite 204

Asheville, NC 28803

Leslie J Apple, AAMS™

Financial Advisor

Leslie J Apple, AAMS™

Financial Advisor

4 Olde Eastwood Village Blvd Suite 204

4 Olde Eastwood Village Blvd

• You could transfer the risk to an insurance company. You could purchase either longterm care insurance or a life insurance policy that provides long-term care benefits in addition to a death benefit. Before obtaining either type of policy, though, you’ll want to know exactly what the policies cover and when they kick in. Also, be aware that the younger you are when you buy a policy, the

This article was

Asheville, NC 28803 828-505-0490

Suite 204

Asheville, NC 28803 828-505-0490

by Edward Jones

use

local Edward Jones Financial Advisor.

Jones. Member SIPC Edward Jones is a licensed insurance producer in

states and Washington, D.C., through Edward D. Jones & Co., L.P., and in California, New Mexico and Massachusetts through Edward Jones Insurance Agency of California, L.L.C.; Edward Jones Insurance Agency of New Mexico, L.L.C.; and Edward Jones Insurance Agency of Massachusetts, L.L.C

Take Precautions to Prevent Being Scammed

Tips to Prevent Being the Victim of Scams Targeting Older Adults

Access to major funds or credit, the fact that sometimes seniors are isolated and lonely and the perception that elders have reduced cognition are all reasons scam artists view older adults as easy prey. Each year, older Americans lose approximately $3 billion to an ever-growing number of financial scams, according to the U.S. Senate’s Special Committee on Aging.

But just because you or a loved one may be a target doesn't mean you or someone you care about has to be a victim. With awareness of the most common scams and having strategies in place, you and your loved one can avoid getting ripped off and help law enforcement agencies shut down these sordid operations.

Common Scams Targeting Seniors

Senior scams play on our biggest fears and concerns – our health, our finances, our home and the well-being of our families. Scammers enter people’s lives by mail, phone and email, and in person with an unsolicited knock on the door. They often look official and seem trustworthy. Their offers may seem like good ideas – often too good to be true. Some of the most common senior scams include:

IRS Scams: People pretend to be Internal Revenue Service employees and ask for payment for back taxes that are supposedly owed.

Sweepstake Scams: Fraudsters call or send a flyer saying you have won something. To retrieve your “prize,” they ask you to send a check or give your credit card or bank account number.

Medicare/Health Insurance Scams: Someone calls saying they are from Medicare or a health insurance company and asks for confidential, personal information, such as your Social Security number.

Social Security Scams: A caller pretends to be with Social Security and attempts to get your Social Security number and other personal information by threatening legal action.

Romance or Sweetheart Scams: Through online dating sites and apps, scammers build fake relationships with targets. Once a sense of trust is established, the scammer creates stories to elicit the transfer of funds to pay for made-up expenses such as medical emergencies, airplane or hotel expenses and other major purchases.

Update-Your-Account Scam: An email or text that looks like it is from a company you actually do business with pops into your inbox or comes across your phone and asks you to update your account information, including a credit card or bank account number.

Home Repair Scams: Unsolicited, someone knocks on your door saying they can fix an

issue with your home or on your grounds at a good price.

Utility Imposter Scams: Scammers pretend to be with the electric, water, gas or other utility provider, say there’s an overdue bill and threaten that services will be turned off if payment isn’t made by providing a bank account number or credit card information.

Charity Scams: Someone calls and asks you to donate to a fake charity with a very real sounding name or someone calls and says you previously made a pledge and they are now collecting on it — again, asking for cash, a check or your credit card number.

Grandparent Scam: Someone calls and says something like, “Hi, Grandma, it’s me” – not giving a name. The senior then responds with

the grandchild’s name and the caller assumes the grandchild’s identity and asks for money. Coronavirus Scams: Scammers trying to take advantage of people during the pandemic include those pretending to be contact tracers, individuals saying they are government representatives calling about checks and people reaching out with offers for vaccinations, home test kits and cures.

There also are funeral and cemetery scams, discount drug scams, computer tech support fraud, fraudulent anti-aging scams, investment scams, reverse mortgage scams and debt collection scams. The list is long and new scams are created every day. What they all have in common is asking for money directly or asking for personal information continued on next page

TO PREVENT AND REPORT SCAMS

Sign up for the free National Do Not Call Registry at DoNotCall. gov or by calling 888-382-1222 from the phone you want to register.

Check your credit report annually at AnnualCreditReport.com or by calling 877-322-8228.

Consider putting a “security freeze” on your credit report to restrict access to your credit file, making it harder for identity thieves to open new accounts in your name. Find out more by visiting the North Carolina Dept. of Justice at NCDOJ. gov/Protecting-Consumers/ Protecting-Your-Identity/FreeSecurity-Freeze/.

Visit at NCDOJ.gov/ProtectingConsumers and the South Carolina Dept. of Consumer Affairs at Consumer.SC.gov/ Consumer-Resources/ConsumerFAQs/Scam-Education for more tips about avoiding being defrauded.

Contact the Consumer Protection Division of the North Carolina Dept. of Justice at 877-5-NOSCAM or the South Carolina Dept. of Consumer Affairs at (844) TELL-DCA.

Report a scam and stay up-to-date with what others are experiencing in your area by visiting the Better Business Bureau website at BBB. org/ScamTracker.

they can use to steal your identity and get your money.

How to Avoid Being Scammed

Be aware that everyone is susceptible and no one is immune. Have your guard up no matter how sharp you think you are and no matter how legitimate something seems. To stay safe, follow these recommendations:

• Don’t give credit card numbers, bank account numbers or Social Security numbers over the phone or by email.

• Don’t answer the phone if you don’t recognize the caller.

• Never answer the door for a person you don’t know.

• Should you find yourself on the phone with a stranger, have a strategy for getting off the phone. Some people feel just hanging up is rude. If that’s the case for you or a loved one, have a strategy that works for you and use it – perhaps by saying that you have something to tend to and need to get off the phone.

• Shred your mail and documents before throwing them away.

• Lock up your checkbook, account statements and other sensitive personal information when people are going to be in your home.

• Check references and credentials of people you are hiring to do work for you.

• Consider using direct deposit to prevent benefit checks from being stolen from your mailbox.

• Get an unlisted phone number. Your phone service provider will

be glad to help you with this.

• Make it your strict policy to talk over any financial, charity or spending decisions with a trusted family member or friend before giving out information or money.

• Never click a link in an email or text to access or set up an account with a business. Always enter your account through the business’ main website via your own browser and if anything seems questionable, call or visit the business.

• Trust your instinct. If your gut feeling is that something feels too good to be true, it probably is.

Steps to Take if You Are Scammed

If you or your loved one receive what you

believe to be a scam phone call, email, text or mailing, or if you believe a scam artist has knocked on your door, report it immediately to your local law enforcement agency.

Call your bank and/or credit card company to report what’s happened and cancel any debit or credit cards linked to the compromised accounts. Be sure to reset passwords and personal identification numbers associated with access to those accounts.

If you realize you have been a victim of a scam, do not be embarrassed. These scammers are professionals and are very good at what they do. Turn your misfortune into a positive for your community and report the scam so you can help protect others.

WNCSource Older Adult Services assists Transylvania County Seniors age 60 and older. Each weekday, we provide healthy meals, supplemental nutrition, and engaging activities to seniors with limited transportation and our homebound rural neighbors.

– LunchPlus congregate meal sites in Brevard & Quebec Community Center

– Home-delivered meals program in the Rosman, Quebec & Lake Toxaway areas of Transylvania County

– Liquid Nutrition Program for medically needy seniors

– Shelf-stable meal box program

Call (828) 884-2255 to sign-up today!

Volunteers help us provide key services to our elderly neighbors. If you have a few hours a month and are willing to lend a hand, please give us a call or visit WNCSource.org for a list of service opportunities.

Understanding Medicare

Need-to-Know Information for Navigating Your Federal Healthcare Options

The federal health insurance program Medicare is complicated but not impossible to understand. The program does have numerous parts and add-ons and the details of your selected policy can change from year to year, as can the premium.

Medicare itself offers comprehensive information at Medicare.gov; publications you can download or have mailed to you; toll-free numbers for your questions; and Medicare counselors in a town near you who can walk you through the entire process by phone. Because this information is subject to change, your best source for information about Medicare is the federal Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. But before you make contact, here’s a quick overview of Medicare – what it is, its parts and how those parts work together or not – so you know what specific questions to ask.

The Basics

Medicare is a federal health insurance program for people who are 65 years old or

older. Some people with certain disabilities or diseases qualify for Medicare before they reach 65 years of age.

Medicare Parts Medicare is available in four parts – A, B, C and D – each with its own level of services. Additionally there is Medicare Supplement Insurance, or Medigap, which is not Medicare but a private policy that works with your Medicare policy to supplement your healthcare costs.

Medicare Part A , in general, covers hospitalization, skilled nursing facility care, hospice care and some home-health services. This part is offered through the federal government with no premiums for most American citizens if they or their spouses paid Medicare taxes for a certain amount of time while working.

Medicare Part B pays for medically necessary services, mental health services, physician’s services, outpatient care, medical supplies,

durable medical equipment, ambulance services and some preventative screenings and services. This part is offered through the federal government and is combined with Part A. Part B does have premiums.

Medicare Part C is also known as Medicare Advantage Plans. These plans are offered through private insurance companies and premiums are charged. These companies contract with Medicare to provide Medicare A and B benefits plus benefits and services not covered under A and B. They may offer extra coverage, like vision, hearing, dental or health and wellness programs. Also, many Part C plans offer prescription drug coverage (so if you have your Medicare through Part C, you won’t need Medicare Part D). With Medicare Part C, you typically are part of a Health Maintenance Organization (HMO), a Preferred Provider Organization (PPO), a private fee-for-service plan, a special needs plan, or a Medicare Medical Savings Account (MSA) Plan.

Medicare Part D covers prescription drugs. It is an add-on to Parts A and B. As with Part C, Part D is offered through private companies approved by Medicare and there is a premium. Be aware that there is a penalty for late enrollment.

Supplemental Insurance

Medicare Supplement Insurance, or Medigap policies, are sold by private insurance companies and are meant to supplement Original Medicare, also known as Parts A and B. Medigap policies help pay some of the health care costs that Medicare doesn’t cover, like copayments, coinsurance and deductibles.

Some Medigap policies also cover services that Original Medicare doesn’t cover, like medical care when you travel outside of the United States.

Newer supplemental policies do not include prescription drug coverage. To obtain such coverage, you need to sign up for Medicare Part D or a supplemental plan with drug coverage. Note that if you have Medicare Advantage Plan (Part C), it is illegal for a company to sell you a Medigap policy. You will need to choose whether Medicare Advantage Plan (Part C) or a supplemental policy best suits your needs.

The Medicare parts you choose are highly specific to your own unique situation. One starting point for figuring out what type of Medicare coverage is right for you is the questionnaire at Medicare.gov/ MedicareCoverageOptions . Our Medicare Resources section also has resources that can help you make informed choices so you can get the healthcare coverage that best fits your individual needs.

STATE MEDICARE RESOURCES

In North Carolina, learn more about Medicare, supplemental policies and more at the N.C. Dept. of Insurance at NCDOI.gov/Consumers/Medicareand-Seniors-Health-InsuranceInformation-Program-SHIIP.

In South Carolina, learn more at the S.C. Dept. on Aging at Aging. SC.gov/Programs-Initiatives/ Medicare-and-Medicare-Fraud.

MEDICARE HELP

Medicare.gov

This website offers thorough explanations about the Medicare program, updates on changes and answers to frequently asked questions. It also offers Medicare & You for download to your computer, as an e-book reader or as an audio podcast. You also can request that information be mailed to you on an audio CD or in print form, which is also available in large print and braille formats. This reference has everything you need to know about Medicare and supplemental policies, along with charts that allow you to compare and contrast parts, policies and benefits.

800-MEDICARE

Call this toll-free helpline to speak with someone trained to help you with any Medicare question or issue.

Seniors’ Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP)

NCDOI .com/SHIIP

855-408-1212 (toll-free)

Each county in North Carolina has its own SHIIP counselors specially trained to help you with your Medicare questions. Contact information for some of the SHIIP programs in our area:

Buncombe County COABC.org/Benefits

828-277-8288 (ask for SHIIP help) Council on Aging of Buncombe County

Haywood County MountainProjects.org/Senior-Services

828-356-2800 (ask for SHIIP help) Mountain Projects, Inc./ Senior Resource Center

Henderson County COAHC.org/Resources LandofSky.org/SHIIP.html

828-692-4203 (ask for SHIIP help) Council on Aging for Henderson County

Madison County MadisonCountyNC.gov/ Events-and-Resources.html 828-398-7700

Madison County Department of Community Services

Polk County

PolkNC.org/

The_Meeting_Place_Senior_Center.php 828-894-0001 (ask for SHIIP help)

The Meeting Place/ Polk County Senior Services

Rutherford County

RutherfordCountyNC.gov/Departments/ Senior_Center/index.php 828-287-6409 (ask for SHIIP help) Rutherford County Senior Center

Transylvania County

Transylvania.CES.NCSU.edu/ SHIIP-The-Seniors-Health-Insurance-InformationProgram 828-884-3109 (ask for SHIIP help)

Transylvania County Cooperative Extension

Yancey County

Main.NC.US/Yancey/YCSC.htm 828 682 6011 (ask for SHIIP help)

Yancey County Committee on Aging /Yancey County Senior Center

State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP)

GetCareSC.com/Guide/InsuranceCounseling-MedicareMedicaid 800-868-9095 (toll-free)

South Carolina has implemented the State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) – also called the Insurance Counseling Assistance and Referrals for Elders (I-Care) program – to help people applying for Medicare and Medicaid. SHIP is a free health benefits counseling service for Medicare beneficiaries and their families or caregivers.

Spartanburg County

SCACOG.org/Aging-Services 864-242-9733 (ask for SHIP help)

Appalachian Council of Governments-Area Agency on Aging

Planning Ahead for Peace of Mind

Create Legal Advance Directives to Help Carry Out Your Medical and Financial Wishes

Peace of mind comes with making a plan, especially when it comes to expressing your wishes for your medical care, your finances and your desires about the end of your life and after you die. Legal advance directives are documents that give others the authority and directions to carry out your wishes when you are unable to or when it’s more convenient for someone you trust to do so for you.

Four Essential Legal Documents

Advance directives are legal tools that ensure a person’s wishes concerning their healthcare and finances are carried out should they become unable to express them. Everyone should have these documents on file no matter what their age. If you are helping your loved one create their advance directives, consider

using this as an opportunity to write down your own desires and file your own advance directives. Documents you and your loved one should have include:

• A living will;

• A healthcare power of attorney;

• A will; and

• A durable power of attorney.

Living wills address end-of-life issues, such as requesting or withholding medical treatments. A healthcare power of attorney is broader and allows the person you appoint, who is also known as a proxy, to make medical decisions on your behalf if you are unable. For instance, if you are in a stable coma, your healthcare proxy could make decisions about your everyday care. Both the living will and

the healthcare power of attorney are activated only when a physician declares the patient unable to give consent.

A will deals with the division of property and assets after death.

The durable power of attorney allows for the appointment of someone you choose to manage financial affairs should you become incapacitated. You decide on the scope of the durable power of attorney and under what conditions it is activated. Durable power of attorney ends at death. The executor of a will, who can be the same person who has durable power of attorney, then takes charge of the estate and financial affairs.

Consider Professional Help

You don’t have to use an attorney to create advance directives but you may feel more confident doing so.

State bar associations and government agencies can often be resources for instructions and forms for living wills and healthcare powers of attorney. In addition, most area hospitals and hospice organizations have forms and are glad to assist you with completing them. Be aware, though, that these directives must be properly executed and witnessed to be valid.

Will and durable power of attorney forms can be downloaded from various sources online as well. However, unless your life is very simple, think twice about executing these documents without the assistance of a lawyer. An attorney can be especially helpful if you have had multiple marriages or have stepchildren, grandchildren, a large estate, a business or other complex life situations. With all advance

Medical or Physician Orders for Scope of Treatment

Medical Orders for Scope of Treatment (MOST), , physician orders for scope of treatment (POST) or portable Orders for Life-sustaining Treatment (POLST) are other types of medical directives. Issued through your healthcare provider as you approach the end of your life, a MOST, POST or a POLST is more detailed than a do not resuscitate or DNR order or a living will. The terminology for these kinds of orders varies from state to state. These types of advance medical orders allow you or your proxy to decide what specific treatments or interventions you wish to have and which you don’t depending on your particular condition.

Typically, they work with your DNR and living will and also can temporarily suspend any conflicting orders. For example, you may have such a directive that instructs your provider to perform a surgery or offer a treatment that your living will might prohibit.

You and your physician, physician’s assistant or nurse practitioner fill out these medical orders together and they must be signed by both of you.

For more information, ask your physician and visit the North Carolina Medical Society at NCMEDSOC.org/ AdvocacyPublic-Health/End-of-LifeResources and the National POLST Paradigm at POLST.org

directives, there is a lot to consider that is unique to you or your loved one and much is riding on the paperwork being properly done. While you can “do it yourself,” talking with a professional is prudent.

What Your Directives Should Say

The wishes expressed in advance directives are up to the person drafting the document. The downloadable forms contain good prompts to ensure you ask and answer important questions and cover many bases. However, these documents cannot address every situation so in addition to getting your wishes down on paper, make sure that all involved understand the underlying spirit of those wishes as well.

A family meeting is a great way to accomplish this. Frank discussions face to face with all concerned parties allow people to ask questions, sort out possible misunderstandings and come to terms with what their loved one wants. Such a meeting – strengthened by

legal documents that reflect the content of the meeting – provides the proxy and other family members with direction and peace of mind when tough decisions may need to be made.

Who Should Have the Power?

The toughest decision for many when putting these documents together is deciding who should receive their healthcare and durable powers of attorney. The proxy needs to be someone who knows the person and sees his or her life in context. The proxy also should understand the responsibilities and agree to the job.

Although a spouse or partner may seem like a natural choice, he or she might not be the best proxy. Typically, spouses and partners

are about the same age so issues of aging can present problems.

Appointing all children equally is another popular option. However, before making such a decree, consider, based on past experience, if this sibling group can reach consensus on sometimes complicated and tension-filled decisions. On the other hand, realize that appointing one child as the sole proxy can lead to its own set of problems.

If the family dynamic won’t fare well with a group or individual being appointed, consider asking a close family friend or choosing a professional to do the job.

Whomever you select, think about that person’s natural strengths and weaknesses. One child or close friend might be great for

financial matters while another might be better with healthcare issues.

Keep Directives Up-to-Date

Situations change over time so you should update all of your directives every five years or more frequently as needed to be sure they still reflect your circumstances and desires. Once completed, keep a file at home with several copies of all of your advance directives. Share copies with your agent, alternate agent and health care providers. Do not store them in a safe deposit box because people who need them may not be able to access them. Scan these documents onto your computer for quick reference and so you can send them electronically to any appropriate entity that needs them. Keep an electronic set on your phone and in the cloud, too, and register your advance directives online.

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ADVANCE DIRECTIVES

Instructions and forms for North Carolina living wills and healthcare powers of attorney are available at SOSNC .gov/AHCDR .

This site also is home to the N.C. Advance Health Care Directive Registry where you can file up to four different advance directive documents for easy access.

South Carolina advance directive instructions and forms can be found at Aging.SC.gov/Programs-Initiatives/ Legal-Assistance-Seniors.

To find Elder Law & Estate Planning Attorneys in your area, visit our Resource Directory on page 108.

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End-of-Life Planning Benefits Everyone

Outlining Your Final Wishes Helps Both You and Your Loved Ones

Most people avoid talking about death and dying and don’t want to think about a time when they’ll be gone. But being clear about your final wishes and making plans for what happens after you pass away can give you and your loved ones great peace of mind.

A good time to think about, write down and share what you would like to have happen upon your death is when you are crafting your advance directives. Talking with friends and family members about your final wishes will give you and those who care about you confidence that when you die, your wishes will be carried out.

Here are some questions to ask yourself as you start thinking about your end-of-life planning:

Healthcare at the End of Your Life

• If you are diagnosed with a terminal illness, what kind of medical care do you want? Do you want hospice or palliative care providers? If so, what are your goals for such care?

• Is there a particular family member or friend you would like involved with your care at the end of your life?

• If you are able to choose where you will pass away, do you want to die at home or in a healthcare facility? Are there certain people you would like to visit you before you die? Who would you like to be present with you when you pass away?

Personal Business

• Even if you have a will outlining who will inherit your possessions, are there certain items such as photographs, family mementos and other keepsakes that you want particular people to have?

• If you have pets, who do you want to take care of them after you die?

• How do you want your email, social media and other digital accounts handled after you die? Who do you want to take care of these matters?

• A re there certain memories, stories and photos from your life and of your family history that you want to make a written, audio or video record of to preserve prior to your death?

Philanthropy and Financial Donations

• In addition to your family, is there a particular charity that you desire to donate to? Have you contacted a legal or financial advisor to inquire about the best method of planning for your donation? Does your family know of your desired donation? Are you aware of the tax regulations which will be applied to your donation? In addition to listing it in your will, there are many different ways to prepare a philanthropic donation. For example, taking out a life insurance policy with the charity as the beneficiary, setting up a private foundation or beginning to give annually right now might be effective ways for you to plan for your donation.

• A fter you pass, is there an organization you would like to direct friends and family to donate to in lieu of sending flowers? If you have experienced a battle with a specific sickness or disease, would you like to request donations be sent to an association or foundation aiding in relevant research? Or perhaps if a long-term health issue has caused a financial burden on your family, would you like to set up a trust to help your family members in the time following your death?

Funeral and Memorial Planning

• What do you want done with your body after you die? What are your preferences with regards to cremation, burial, organ donation and donation to science? If you are buried, do you want a grave marker? If you are cremated, do you have a particular place where you’d like your ashes spread?

• Do you want a funeral, memorial service, visitation or celebration of life? If so, where would you prefer these be held? Are there particular readings and music you would like to be shared? Is there a certain person you would like to deliver a eulogy? Are there any religious, military or other special considerations you want taken into account? If you have a casket, do you want it open?

• Do you want an obituary and if so, what do you want it to say? Is there a particular photograph you would like used with it?

These questions can serve as a starting point for making your end-of-life plans and having conversations about your final wishes with the people who care about you.

Through end-of-life planning, you gain peace of mind today and at the time of your death your grieving loved ones are relieved of the additional burden of second-guessing what you may have wanted.

PLANNING RESOURCES

Online tools, guides and checklists can be found at TheConversationProject.org and EverPlans.com.

Aging Resources has more information about creating your living will, healthcare power of attorney, will and durable power of attorney on pages 90-93.

Coiner, P.A.

698-2345

Enhancing Life with Palliative and Hospice Care

The Comforting Benefits of Both when Navigating Illness

When facing a serious illness or life-limiting condition, palliative care and hospice care can provide you or a loved one with relief, a sense of control and enhancement of life in the midst of difficult circumstances.

Both palliative care and hospice care focus on the needs of the whole patient, not just someone’s illness. Both have the goal of decreasing symptoms and increasing quality of life, and both help patients and their families live as fully as possible and with dignity in spite of their illness.

Palliative Care

Palliative care is for patients managing a serious illness. With palliative care, curative treatments continue but with a more holistic approach that takes you and your whole life into account. With palliative care, you get a team of specially trained professionals to help you navigate your life, as well as your illness. A palliative care team typically consists of a medical social worker, some combination of healthcare providers –such as a physician, nurse practitioner and nurses – and perhaps a pharmacist, nutritionist, spiritual counselor and volunteers. Working

closely with you and your family, the team helps you or your loved one:

• Have a conversation with family members about and document wishes for future health care;

• Develop treatment goals and a lifemanagement plan that reflect your or your loved one’s values, life goals, lifestyle and desires;

• Ensure proper pain management and symptom relief is in place;

• See that financial issues are addressed and help is found if needed; and

• Ensure that family members receive information, support, respite and other needed resources.

With palliative care, the patient is always in control. You or your loved one can ask the doctor for a referral to palliative care at any time during a serious illness and palliative care services can be stopped at any time during an illness or when there’s recovery.

Hospice Care

Hospice care is for an individual with any lifelimiting condition and typically a prognosis of six months or less to live. As with palliative care, hospice care is provided by an interdisciplinary team of healthcare and human services professionals.

A hospice team works closely with the individual who is ill to achieve many of the same goals as with palliative care. The difference is that hospice patients are no longer seeking curative treatments, but rather are seeking comfort and quality of life.

Hospice care does nothing to hasten death. In fact, people receiving hospice care often live longer than people actively being treated for the same disease. With hospice care:

• Services can be received at home, at a care facility, at a hospital or at a hospice house. For those in a hospital or nursing facility, hospice care can often make a move home possible if so desired.

• Hospice recipients can continue to see their regular physicians and use prescribed medications.

• People under hospice care can go out, have visitors in and do whatever they feel up to doing.

• Individuals under hospice care can stop receiving it and resume curative treatment at any time.

A physician’s referral is required for palliative or hospice care. Medicare, Medicaid and private insurance may offer benefits for both types of care. Care teams can help look into specifics of an individual’s health care policy to determine what is covered.

MORE ABOUT PALLIATIVE AND HOSPICE CARE

Visit the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization at NHPCO.org/Patients-and-Caregivers.

Find local Palliative and Hospice Care Providers on page 50 and in the Aging Resources Directory on page 105.

There is plenty of help for seniors and their caregivers in our area. Below is a list of commonly needed services. For a direct link to all websites for listings in this directory, view the magazine online at AgingResourcesWNC.com.

GENERAL INFORMATION

Aging Resources Magazine

A print and online resource for managing the financial, legal, social, residential, health and medical issues of aging and caregiving. 828-513-3888 | AgingResourcesWNC.com

Local Councils on Aging (COA) receive limited funding to provide family caregivers with grants for respite care. Funding can be used for home care, day programs, and overnight respite programs. Contact the COA nearest you for more information and to apply for a grant.

Council on Aging of Buncombe County

Local nonprofit advocacy agency that also provides a wide range of services and resources for older adults. 828-277-8288 | COABC.org

Council on Aging for Henderson County

Providing and coordinating services to engage, connect, and support adults in our community as we age. Support the mission by donating and shopping at the Etowah and Hendersonville Thrift Stores. Programs include: Caregiver Services, Community Resource Coordination, Heat Relief, Liquid Nutrition, Meals on Wheels, Senior Companion, Lunch at the Sammy Center (Congregate Meals), and Volunteer Opportunities. 105 King Creek Boulevard, Hendersonville 828-692-4203

COAHC.org

Foothills Regional Commission

Area Agency on Aging

SEE PAGE 39

Land of Sky Regional Council

A multi-county, planning and development organization offering volunteer opportunities, aging resources, workforce development, community development services and more. 339 New Leicester Highway, Suite 140 Asheville 828-251-6353 | LandofSky.org

North Carolina Department of Health & Human Services

Division of Health Service

Regulation Office: 919-855-3750

Adult Care Licensure: 919-855-3765

For information about inspections, penalty and star rating on Adult Care facilities visit NCDHHS.gov/Assistance/Adult-Services.

ACCESSIBLE AND UNIVERSAL DESIGN

RL Mace Universal Design Institute

The Institute works with homeowners, builders, remodelers, and design professionals to create accessible and universal home environments. 1854 A Hendersonville Road, Asheville 919-608-1812 UDInstitute.org

ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES

Elevated Living Services

Simplifying your life by helping to manage the day to day. Customized approach for every client. Call us now for a free consultation. PO Box 5920, Asheville 828-435-2456

ElevatedLivingServices.com

SEE PAGE 66

Facilitating a comprehensive long-term care system for older adults in the region. Serves Polk, Rutherford, McDowell, and Cleveland Counties. 828-287-2281 | RegioNC.org

AGING IN PLACE

Aging Projects, Inc.

This online resource directory is specially designed to help seniors find screened resources to age in place. 828-776-1390 | AgingProjectsInc.org

ALZHEIMER’S/DEMENTIA

Alzheimer’s Association

Comprehensive information, care consultations, and online resources—24/7 Helpline. For information call. 800-272-3900 | ALZ.org Western Carolina Chapter 828-398-5780

A LZ.org/NorthCarolina

Dementia Friendly WNC

SEE PAGE 27

A grassroots organization dedicated to the well-being of people living with dementia and their families through a welcoming and knowledgeable community. 828-348-7261

WNCDementiaFriendlyCommunities@gmail.com

DementiaFriendlyWNC.org

Project C.A.R.E.

(Caregiver Alternatives to Running on Empty)

This state-funded program offers care consultation, information, assistance and referrals to other resources to family caregivers/care partners who care for a loved one with dementia. Services are free to consumers.

339 New Leicester Hwy, Suite 140, Asheville 828-251-6622 | LandofSky.org/ProjectCare

ALZHEIMER'S/DEMENTIA MEMORY SUPPORT GROUPS

Dementia Alliance of NC Support Groups

Committed to offering local support groups throughout the state of North Carolina so that location is never a factor that hinders a caregiver from attending a group session. Visit their website to find a support group in your area.

DementiaNC.org/Family-Services-Support/ Support-Groups

MCI Support Group

Support group specifically for persons with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI). Caregivers are welcome to join their loved ones, but these meetings are primarily focused on persons experiencing MCI. 1st and 3rd Wednesdays at 11am, hybrid format.

Grace Covenant Presbyterian Church 789 Merrimon Avenure, Asheville

Contact Richard Coble at RCoble@gcpusa.org.

Memory Caregivers Network Group

Third Tuesday Monthly from 1:00-3:00 pm.

Please contact for schedule updates. New Hope Presbyterian Church 3070 Sweeten Creek Road, Arden

Contact Mel Kelley at Avant_Garden@msn.com and email Network@MemoryCare.org for Zoom meeting information.

Memory Loss Caregivers of East Buncombe

Second Tuesday 9:30-11:30 am. Please contact for schedule updates.

Highland Farms Retirement Community 200 Tabernacle Road, Black Mountain (Brookside Building, J-K Entrance, lower level lounge 3) Contact Mary Donnelly for more information at 828-239-4143 or MaryDDSnow@gmail.com.

Support Group for Dementia Spouses

Third Tuesday each month, 1:00-2:30pm.

A care receiver and activity program is provided for loved ones.

First United Methodist Church 204 Sixth Avenue West, Hendersonville Contact Lisa Kaufman at 828-696-9799 (office) or 561-371-9410 (cell).

Support Group for Dementia Family Members

Third Tuesday each month, 3:00-4:30pm.

A care receiver and activity program is provided for loved ones.

First United Methodist Church 204 Sixth Avenue West, Hendersonville Contact Lisa Kaufman at 828-696-9799 (office) or 561-371-9410 (cell).

BEHAVIORAL HEALTH

St. Luke’s Hospital

Senior Life Solutions (outpatient) and the Center for Behavioral Health (inpatient) offer a multidisciplinary approach to mental health for seniors. 101 Hospital Drive, Columbus 828-894-3311

SaintLukesHospital.com

CAREGIVER SUPPORT

Family Caregiver Support Program

The Family Caregiver Support Program works on a regional level to establish partnerships with caregiver service providers, caregivers, and those who interact with caregivers to leverage resources and improve and expand the available resources / services for caregivers .

Land of Sky Regional CouncilA rea Agency on Aging 828-251-7341

LandofSky.org/FCSP

MountainCare Caregiver Support Groups

First and Third Monday of each month, 2:303:30 pm. Email for schedule updates and online meeting format, if applicable. No pre-registration required.

68 Sweeten Creek Road, Asheville 828-277-3399 | Connect@MtnCare.org

MountainCare Adult Day Centers

Buncombe: 828-277-3399

Henderson at Pardee: 828-697-7070

Transylvania: 828-435-2850 MountainCareServices.org

Caring for People Education and Support (CAPES)

Session topics include caring for people living with dementia, legal issues, coping with stress, self-care, community resources and making difficult life choices. Second Tuesdays monthly, 5:00-6:30 pm and third Tuesdays monthly via Zoom, 5:006:30 pm. Please contact for schedule updates. Mountain Area Health Education Center (MAHEC)

121 Hendersonville Road, Asheville Contact Juanita Igo at 828-277-8288 ext. 1307 MemoryCare.org/Caregiver-Information/ Support-Groups

CHARITABLE GIVING

Four Seasons Foundation

Use philanthropy as an estate planning tool to make award winning levels of hospice and palliative care possible into the future.

211 North Main Street, Hendersonville 828-513-2440

FourSeasonsFDN.org

Hospice Home Store

Donate your furniture, home décor, clothing, and more (at our store or…we pick up!). Volunteer with us or purchase quality, name-brand furniture, home décor, and clothing in our Hendersonville, Arden, or Brevard stores. Proceeds from the Home Stores help provide Four Seasons serious illness care to everyone, regardless of the ability to pay.

215 North Main Street, Hendersonville 828-696-0625

HospiceHomeStore.org

MemoryCare

A non-profit community-based program offering specialized medical care and support for patients and families affected by Alzheimer’s and other memory disorders. A referral is necessary.

100 Far Horizons Lane, Asheville 828-771-2219 | MemoryCare.org

COMPANIONS

Senior Companion Program

Senior volunteers provide assistance with daily tasks to other seniors.

Land of Sky Regional Council Dee Heinmiller, Senior Companion Manager 828-251-6622

Buncombe, Henderson, Madison, and Transylvania Counties LandofSky.org/scp.html

CONGREGATE MEALS & MEALS ON WHEELS

Congregate Meals - Buncombe County Senior Opportunity Center

Congregate lunch, Monday-Friday. Services are available to persons 60 years of age and older and their spouses. Congregate dining is Monday-Friday, 9:00am-1:00pm.

36 Grove Street, Asheville | 828-350-2062

Shiloh Community Center

Congregate nutrition services promote the health and well-being of older adults through the provision of a nutritious meal and programs. Services are available to persons 60 years of age and older and their spouses. Congregate dining is on Fridays, 11 :00am-2:00pm.

121 Shiloh Road, Asheville | 828-274-7739

Weaverville First Baptist Church

Congregate nutrition services promote the health and well-being of older adults through the provision of a nutritious meal and programs. Services are available to persons 60 years of age and older and their spouses. Congregate dining is Monday-Friday, 10:00am-1:00pm.

63 N Main St, Weaverville | 828-645-6720

Lakeview Senior Center

Congregate nutrition services promote the health and well-being of older adults through the provision of a nutritious meal and programs. Services are available to persons 60 years of age and older and their spouses. Congregate dining is Monday-Friday, 10:00am-1:00pm.

401 Laurel Circle Drive, Black Mountain 828-669-2035

Congregate Meals - Henderson County

Mills River Life Enrichment Center (MRLEC)

Senior fellowship with a program and lunch every Thursday. Programs begin at 10:00 am and are held in the Mills River United Methodist Church Fellowship Hall. Lunch Reservations are required. Please call by 12:00 pm the Tuesday before each program.

Mills River United Methodist Church 137 Old Turnpike Road, Mills River 828-808-5581 | MillsRiverUMC.org

Sammy Williams Center

Lunch at the Sammy is donation-based lunch, activities and fellowship. Lunch is Monday-Friday starting at 11:45am and activities are scheduled throughout each month. Visit website for the current schedule.

301 North Justice Street, Hendersonville 828-692-3320

COAHC .org/Sammy-Williams-Center

Congregate Meals - Polk County

The Meeting Place - Columbus

Congregate lunch 11:30am, Monday-Friday, activities 10:00am-1:00pm.

25 Shield Drive, Green Creek 828-863-2795 | PolkNC.org

The Meeting Place - Green Creek

Congregate lunch 11:30 am, Monday-Friday, activities 8:30am- 4:00pm

75 Carmel Lane, Columbus 828-894-0001 | PolkNC.org

Saluda Senior Center

Monday-Friday, home-delivered meals, recreation and education programs

64 Greenville St., Saluda 828-749-9245 | PolkNC.org

Congregate Meals - Transylvania County

Quebec LunchPlus Program (WNCSource)

Congregate lunch, Monday-Friday, 9:30 am12:00 pm. A socialization/nutrition program for Transylvania County residents 60 years old and better that includes daily activities and lunch. Transportation may be available depending on where you live. Pre-enrollment is required.

Quebec Community Center

11846 Rosman Highway/Hwy 64, Lake Toxaway 828-862-4466 or 828-884-2255

WNCSource.org

SEE PAGE 85

Silvermont LunchPlus Program (WNCSource)

Congregate lunch, Monday-Friday 9:30 am-12:00 pm

A socialization/nutrition program for Transylvania County residents 60 years old and better that includes daily activities and lunch. Transportation may be available depending on where you live. Preenrollment is required.

Silvermont Opportunity Center 364 East Main Street, Brevard 828-884-3166 or 828-884-2255

WNCSource.org

Mobile Meals

Meals on Wheels

SEE PAGE 85

Hot meals delivered Monday-Friday to homebound adults who are unable to prepare meals. Buncombe County: 828-253-5286 | MOWABC.org

Henderson County: 828-692-6693 | COAHC.org/Meals-on-Wheels

Polk County: 863-299-1616 | MealsOnWheelsPolk.com

Transylvania County / Brevard: 828-883-3743 | MealsOnWheelsBrevard.org

WNCSource Mobile Meals

Provides free meals to the elderly community (60 years or older) who are homebound in locations where Meals on Wheels doesn’t go in Transylvania County. Donations are accepted. 828-884-2255

WNCSource.org

PAGE 85

EDUCATION & CULTURAL CENTERS

Blue Ridge Center for Lifelong Learning Classes, “EdVentures,” brown bag lunches and other learning opportunities for those 50 years of age and better. Visit the website for schedule updates.

Blue Ridge Community College 180 West Campus Drive, Flat Rock 828-694-1740 | BRCLL.com

Life@Western Carolina

Noncredit Lifelong Learning courses for adults

50 +. Topics include history, culture, health, science, geo-political and legal issues. Visit the website for schedule updates.

Biltmore Park, Asheville 828-227-7397 | Life.WCU.edu

Osher Lifelong Learning Institute

A learning community dedicated to promoting lifelong learning, leadership, community service and research. Visit the website for updates.

University of North Carolina-Asheville One University Heights, Asheville 828-251-6140 | OLLIAsheville.com

FINANCIAL SERVICES

Leslie J. Apple, AAMS™ – Edward Jones

No matter what stage of life you are in, unforseen events can happen. We can help you prepare for those unexpected circumstances.

4 Olde Eastwood Village Boulevard Suite 204 , Asheville 828-505-0490 EdwardJones.com/Leslie-Apple SEE PAGE 81

GRIEF AND LOSS

CarePartners Hospice Bereavement Services

CarePartners Hospice Bereavement Services are available to you or your family as you adjust to a loss. They offer support in a variety of ways for individuals and families: Semi-annual memorial services, individual and group sessions for adults and children available at some locations, and other groups and workshops may be offered through your regional office. For more information, contact your regional CarePartners Hospice Bereavement coordinator.

Buncombe County/Asheville: 828-251-0126

Macon County/Franklin: 828-369-4206

McDowell County/Marion: 828-659-7068

Transylvania County/Brevard: 828-883-5254

Compassionate Friends: WNC Chapter

A self-help organization offering friendship, understanding, and hope to bereaved families that have experienced the death of a child. First Thursday of each month at 6:30pm; please contact for schedule updates.

Long’s Chapel United Methodist Church ( Dugan Classroom)

133 Old Clyde Road, Waynesville

Contact John at 828-400-6480

CompassionateFriends.org

HEALTH INSURANCE

NC SHIIP/SMP

A consumer information division of the N.C. Department of Insurance that assists people with Medicare, Medicare Part D, Medicare supplements, Medicare Advantage, and long-term care insurance questions. They also help citizens recognize and prevent Medicare billing errors and possible fraud and abuse through NCSMP Program.

1-855-408-1212

NCSHIIP.com

HEALTH AND WELLNESS

AdventHealth Hendersonville

Nationally recognized for quality and safety with the CMS Hospital Compare 5-Star rating, AdventHealth is committed to provide whole-person care – body, mind and spirit to every person across WNC.

100 Hospital Drive, Hendersonville 855-774-LIFE (5433)

AdventHealthNC.com

CarePartners PACE

(Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly)

PACE promotes the independence of seniors 55+ who want to live at home. A team of professionals coordinate an array of services for each participant.

286 Overlook Road, Asheville 828-213-8442

CarePartners.org

Mission Health

Recognized as one of the nation’s Top 15 Health Systems, Mission is dedicated to improving the health and wellness of the people of WNC.

509 Biltmore Avenue, Asheville 828-213-1111

Mission-Health.org

St. Luke’s Hospital

Senior-focused services for inpatient and outpatient swing bed (Steps to Home), orthopedics, state-ofthe-art 3D mammography, contemporary urology, rehabilitation and 24/7 ER.

101 Hospital Drive, Columbus 828-894-3311

SaintLukesHospital.com

YMCA of Western North Carolina

SEE PAGE 3

The Y offers programs to all that focus on building a healthy spirit, mind and body. From health related programs like Diabetes Prevention, PWR!Moves and Pedaling for Parkinson’s plus, a variety of group exercise classes. We also provide Mobile Markets with opportunities to volunteer or hunger relief for those in need. The Y connects community in meaningful ways and no one is turned away for inability to pay thanks to our generous donors. Ask about special rates for seniors and Medicare Advantage. Financial Assistance is available. There are multiple locations through Buncombe Country, plus centers in Henderson and McDowell counties too.

828-251-5910

YMCAWNC.org

WNC Fall Prevention Coalition

SEE PAGE 6

The WNC Fall Prevention Coalition is committed to reducing the number of falls and fall-related injuries in Western North Carolina. Ongoing programs and meetings, please email for county-specific information.

FallPreventionCoalitionWNC@gmail.com

NCFallsPrevention.org/ Western-NC-Falls-Coalition

HEALTH FOOD/GROCERY STORES

Hendersonville Community Co-op

As an owner operated cooperative, their mission is to provide organic and wholesome, natural foods, supplements and health care products, and to encourage informed choice through education and exceptional service to their customers and community.

60 South Charleston Lane, Hendersonville 828-693-0505

Hendersonville.Coop

HEARING SERVICES

Biggert’s Hearing Instruments

Established in 2000, Biggert’s licensed audiologists provide comprehensive hearing evaluations and work with you to choose customized hearing aid solutions, including rechargeability and bluetooth wireless connectivity.

303 South Church Street, Hendersonville

828-692-0353

BiggertsHearing.com

Gant Hearing Care

PAGE 29

Better Hearing, Better Living. Hearing healthcare designed for the patient. Serving hearing needs in WNC for over 30 years.

69 Westridge Market Place, Candler 828-463-5175

GantHearingCare.com

HOME CARE

Always Best Care Senior Services

PAGE 23

Providing In-Home Care assistance including personal care, medication reminders, household assistance, light housekeeping, meal preparation, transportation / shopping, recovery care, companionship, Alzheimer’s & Dementia care and skilled nursing care. We also offer a proprietary Balance Tracking / Fall Risk Assessment program and Remote Patient Monitoring system to allow for more preventative and preemptive healthcare and increased safely for our clients. Care is available 24/7. 828-676-2939

AlwaysBestCareWNC.com

Best Care Home Care

PAGE 22

Dedicated to providing leading home care services to our local communities, Best Care Home Care is a local family-owned choice for quality in-home care. Types of care include Companion Care, Personal Care, Respite Care, Dementia Care and Specialized Care. They provide quality training to their aids and believe in only providing the best services to clients. Medicaid and private pay accepted.

230 North Main Street, Rutherfordton 828-395-2245

BestCareHC.org

PAGE

SEE PAGE 7

FirstLight Home Care of Asheville

A leader in senior care, respite care, and home care for adults of any age. We provide personalized care catered to you or your loved one’s unique needs. Transportation & errands. 24-Hour Home Care. Bathing & Hygiene. Medication reminders.

370 North Louisiana Ave., Suite D-1 , Asheville 828-505-4337

Asheville.FirstLightHomeCare.com

Four Seasons Home Care

SEE PAGE 47

In-home assistance with personal care, meals, housekeeping, shopping, transportation and more. Now offering Remote Safety Monitoring and Medication Planning Services. Available 24/ 7.

513 North Justice Street, Suite B

Hendersonville

FourSeasonsHomeCare.org

SEE PAGE 67

National Association for Home Care & Hospice

Licensing and accreditation information on and a locator for home care and hospice agencies.

AgencyLocator.NAHC.org

Medicare Compare for Home Health

Information on and patient survey results for home health agencies by location and ability to compare services offered.

Medicare.gov/HomeHealthCompare

Senior Helpers

Our goal is to help seniors age safely in the comfort of their own home. Our caregivers offer companion and personal care services.

1550 Hendersonville Rd, Unit 110 828-401-1234

SeniorHelpers.com

HOME HEALTH CARE

CarePartners Home Health

SEE PAGE 66

CenterWell Home Health

At CenterWell Home Health, care is defined by clinical expertise and the compassion delivered every day – one patient at a time.

9 Olde Eastwood Village Boulevard, Asheville 828-298-1370

CenterWellHomeHealth.com

Choice Care Your Way

SEE PAGE 51

Locally owned in-home care registry serving WNC that strives to match every client with caregivers for that perfect fit. Owners Lisa and Beth have years of experience in Home Health Care, Palliative Care, Hospice Care, and Dementia Care. They are uniquely qualified to guide, advocate and support individuals and families who need in-home care. 828-772-4714

ChoiceCareYourWay.com

Pardee Home Health

SEE PAGE 11

Providing the quality medical care you need in the comfort of your own home. Offering a full range of in-home services.

800 North Justice Street, Hendersonville 828-692-1846

PardeeHospital.org

Medicare Compare for Home Health

SEE PAGE 17

Information on and patient survey results for home health agencies by location and ability to compare services offered.

Medicare.gov/HomeHealthCompare

HOME/ESTATE

Marthaler Jewelers

Marthaler Jewelers is a jewelry store in Asheville that focuses on designing custom fine jewelry. Expertise includes custom design, restore and redesign, repair & maintenance, jewelry appraisals, and the sale and repurposing of fine family jewelry.

For patients who are aging, ill, or recovering from an illness or an injury, we offer the care you need, from nursing to therapy to social work, right in the comfort of your own home.

Home Health: 800-627-1533

P rivate Duty: 828-277-4777

CarePartners.org

SEE PAGE 25

43 Town Square Blvd #130, Asheville 828-676-1625

MarthalerJewelers.com

HOME MODIFICATION & ASSISTIVE DEVICES

Brunson's Furniture

Located in Downtown Hendersonville, Brunson's Furniture offers an extensive selection of fully reclining lift chairs and adjustable beds. Delivery and full setup is available.

400 N King St., Hendersonville 828-692-1471

BrunsonFurniture@Yahoo.com

Helping Wheels

SEE PAGE 26

Their goal is to provide quality wheelchair accessible vans, driving controls, mobility equipment, automotive wheelchair lifts, scooter lifts, stairlifts, vertical platform lifts, wheelchairs, scooters and other personal mobility equipment.

1078 Tunnel Road, Suite F, Asheville 866-443-3101

HelpingWheels.com

LimbTech

SEE PAGE 23

LimbTech's focus is orthopedic evalulations for mobility equipment and aging in place. They aim to allow their clients the ability to thrive at their maximum level.

186 Butler Ridge Trail, Hendersonville 828-688-7988

LimbTechNC.com

MobileLife

SEE PAGE 13

Providing home medical equipment and adaptive mobility access solutions. Visit their showroom to "test ride" a mobility scooter and discuss your mobility and accessibility needs.

73 Airport Road, Arden 828-676-2760

WNCMobileLife.com

HOSPICE & PALLIATIVE CARE

CarePartners Hospice

SEE PAGE 6

Compassionate Care Western North Carolina

Their name is their mission - Compassionate Care for the seriously ill. They are the right choice for patients and families in Western North Carolina who want to experience the best quality of life possible for as long as possible.

856 Georges Fork Road, Burnsville 828.682.9675

CompassionateCareWNC.org

Four Seasons — The Care You Trust

SEE PAGE 21

With over 42 years of experience, Four Seasons is an award-winning, nationally recognized non-profit organization offering Care Navigation, Home Care, Palliative Care, Hospice Care, and Grief Services.

Serving Henderson and Twelve Other Counties in WNC 866-466-9734 OR 828-692-6178

FourSeasonsCFL.org SEE PAGE 67

HOUSING

Ardenwoods

Exceptional retirement living in a vibrant, resortstyle atmosphere. Offering independent and assisted living with active-lifestyle amenities like chef-prepared dining, onsite nature trails, swimming, art, a salon and spa, all located on 48-wooded acres between Asheville and Hendersonville.

2400 Appalachian Boulevard, Arden 828-684-7330

ArdenwoodsRetire.com

PAGE 63

Brookdale Hendersonville East Healthy, happy at home. Nine floor plans, three chef-inspired meals daily, plus fitness classes and exciting excursions.

2601 Chimney Rock Rd, Hendersonville 828-629-1911

Brookdale.com/EN/Communities/ Brookdale-Hendersonville-East

We offer physical, emotional and spiritual support to patients with terminal illnesses. We are dedicated to treating our patients and their loved ones with respect and compassion, and to providing the highest level of comfort and quality of life possible.

21 Belvedere Road, Asheville 828-255-0231

CarePartners.org

SEE PAGE 25

Brooks-Howell Home

Nestled on 10 acres near downtown Asheville, Brooks-Howell offers skilled care and respite care in private rooms with a stellar clinical staff to resident ratio with resident-centric care. Independent Living offers a range of affordable accommodations with no entrance fee and is open to not only members of the United Methodist Church, but also members of other denominations.

266 Merrimon Avenue, Asheville 828-253-6712

Brooks-Howell.org

Carolina Reserve of Hendersonville

Carolina Reserve of Hendersonville is passionate about caring for our seniors. With decades of service, our assisted living and memory care community is committed to improving residents’ experiences through superior senior living options, expanded services, and new technologies. We invite you to visit today!

1820 Pisgah Drive, Hendersonville 828-633-4688

CarolinaReserveofHendersonville.com

SEE PAGE 65

Cedar Mountain House

Assisted living community offering all-inclusive pricing. Enjoy robust activities, amenities and care. Veteran Benefits and Medicaid Accepted.

11 Sherwood Ridge Road, Brevard 828-884-9510

CedarMountainSeniors.com

Cherry Springs Village

Assisted living community offering all-inclusive pricing. Enjoy robust activities, amenities and care. Veteran Benefits and Medicaid Accepted.

358 Clear Creek Road, Hendersonville 828-698-6501

CherrySeniors.com

College Walk

College Walk is an Independent and Assisted Living retirement community in Brevard, NC. With stunning surroundings, outstanding services and an abundance of amenities, their residents are proud to call College Walk home. From a dynamic activities schedule to their hospitable staff, their goal is to promote an active, carefree lifestyle.

100 North College Row, Brevard 828-884-5800

Carolina Reserve of Laurel Park

Carolina Reserve of Laurel Park is redefining senior living. Our beautifully designed assisted living community is focused on providing quality care, personalized activities and inspiring social events that enrich the lives of our residents. We invite you to visit Laurel Park and experience senior living at its best.

1825 Pisgah Drive, Hendersonville 828-633-4694

CarolinaReserveofLaurelPark.com

Carolina Village

SEE PAGE 65

Henderson County’s only Type-A Life Plan Community with a focus on active, healthy, purpose-driven living, providing higher levels of quality care when needed.

600 Carolina Village Road, Hendersonville 828-692-6275

CarolinaVillage.com

SEE BACK COVER

CollegeWalkRetirement.com

Deerfield

SEE PAGE 77

Life at Deerfield: connecting with your passions, embracing fun, fitness, friendships and being well cared for in Independent Living, Assisted Living, and Skilled Nursing.

1617 Hendersonville Road, Asheville 828-274-1531

DeerfieldWNC.org

Fletcher Park Inn

SEE PAGE 76

Independent Retirement living on an alcohol/ tobacco-free campus across from AdventHealth. Daily vegetarian buffet lunch with vegan and meat options. Caring Christian atmosphere.

150 Tulip Trail, Hendersonville 828-209-6930 or 800-249-2882

FletcherParkInn.com

Givens Estates - Wood Assisted Living

SEE PAGE 5

Convenient and comfortable living options with suites and other private residences. Located on our beautiful Givens Estates campus.

600 Barrett Lane, Asheville 828-771-2900

GivensEstates.org

PAGE

Heather Glen

Heather Glen Assisted Living offers personalized attention to our resident's health needs, while allowing them to maintain an independent, healthy lifestyle. Heather Glen is an active, 48-residence community with round-the-clock services like assistance with bathing, grooming and dressing, and medication management.

103 Appalachian Boulevard, Arden 828-687-7321

HeatherGlenRetire.com

Heritage Hills

SEE PAGE 63

An independent living facility with a dedicated, professional team supporting each resident with dignity and respect through compassionate, personalized care services.

828-698-3866

PacificaSeniorLiving.com

Kingsbridge House

TerraBella Hendersonville

Here at TerraBella Hendersonville, cozy suites and one-bedroom apartment homes, delicious, chefprepared meals, and daily activities and social events make for a richer and more satisfying way of life for resident seniors. That together with attentive care and service from our professional team members and TerraBella is our area’s best choice for senior living and a great value amidst a beautiful, mountain backdrop. For unsurpassed care, superior value and outstanding lifestyle quality, choose the same community that our Hendersonville neighbors have trusted for more than 15 years: TerraBella Hendersonville! 3851 Howard Gap Road, Hendersonville 828-537-5773

DSL.Link/WNC

SEE PAGE 75

SEE PAGE 73

Memory care community offering all-inclusive pricing. Enjoy robust activities, amenities, and care tailored to residents with dementia.

10 Sugarloaf Road, Brevard 828-884-6137

SeniorsBrevard.com

The Gardens of Hendersonville

Assisted living community offering all-inclusive pricing. Enjoy robust activities, amenities and care. Veteran Benefits and Medicaid Accepted.

1000 W. Allen Street, Hendersonville 828-693-3388

HendersonvilleSeniors.com

NC State Veterans Home

Providing around the clock skilled nursing care, rehabilitation services and memory support to North Carolina Veterans. A state of the art facility offering private rooms.

62 Lake Eden Road, Black Mountain 828-257-6800

Pisgah Valley Retirement

SEE PAGE 69

Licensed continuing care retirement community, independent and assisted living and skilled care.

6 Rhododendron Way, Candler 828-418-2333

PisgahValleyRetirement.com

SEE PAGE 64

The Gardens of Hendersonville

Assisted living community offering all-inclusive pricing. Enjoy robust activities, amenities and care. Veteran Benefits and Medicaid Accepted. 1000 W. Allen Street, Hendersonville 828-693-3388

HendersonvilleSeniors.com

The Landings of Mills River

Assisted living community offering all-inclusive pricing. Enjoy robust activities, amenities, and care. Veteran Benefits and Medicaid Accepted. 4143 Haywood Road, Mills River 828-891-2166

MillsRiverSeniors.com

General Info

Continuing Care Retirement Community Guide

Information from the NC Department of Insurance to assist in the search of a CCRC in North Carolina. NCDOI.gov/Insurance-Industry/ Continuing-Care-RetirementCommunities-CCRC

Medicare Compare for Nursing Homes

Ratings and services comparison for Nursing Homes. Medicare.gov/NursingHomeCompare/ Search.html

North Carolina Dept. of Health & Human Services

Inspection results, licensing, ratings, violations, and penalties for adult-care facilities in North Carolina. 919-855-3765

NCDHHS .gov/ DHSR/ACLS/Index.html

LEGAL/ELDER LAW/ESTATE PLANNING

Edward L. Harrelson, Attorney

Romeo, Harrelson & Coiner, P.A.

Providing experienced financial and healthcare planning, wills, trusts, estate administration and real property transactions.

136 South King Street, Hendersonville 828 698 2345

EdwardHarrelson.com

Knox Law

SEE PAGE 95

Approaching elder law holistically by offering help with estate planning, asset preservation, guardianships, fiduciary services, and a wide variety of personal support services.

16 Towne Place Drive, Suite 100, Hendersonville 828-513-1600

CKnoxElderLaw.com

Van Winkle Law Firm

SEE PAGE 79

Developing plans to address the unpredictability of living longer. Powers of attorney, long-term care, Medicaid & VA benefits planning, asset preservation, & estate planning.

A sheville & Hendersonville: 828-258-2991

VWLawFirm.com

SEE PAGE 83

North Carolina Living Will and Healthcare

Advance care directives and health-care power of attorney forms and registry.

SOSNC.gov

Pisgah Legal Services—Protect Seniors

End-of-life planning, advanced directives and other legal services for low-income seniors and their families. Serving Buncombe, Henderson, Polk, Transylvania, Madison & Rutherford Counties. 828-253-0406 or 800-489-6144

PisgahLegal.org

MEDICAL EQUIPMENT LOAN CLOSETS

Durable medical equipment available for loan at no cost.

Asheville Buncombe Community Christian Ministries (ABCCM) 20 20 th Street, Asheville, NC, 28806 828-259-5300 | ABCCM.org

The Medical Loan Closet of Henderson County

The Medical Loan Closet of Henderson County is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that provides durable medical equipment at minimal cost to residents of Henderson County.

1225 7th Ave. E., Hendersonville 828-692-9005

MedicalLoanCloset.org

MEDICARE HELP

Medicare

For assistance understanding and navigating the Medicare system visit: Medicare.gov

PHARMACY

Sona Pharmacy

PAGE 93

At Sona, patients are more than medications. That's why our Medication Support Program focuses on removing the burden of medication management so patients can pursue their healthiest lives. Repeatedly voted “Best Pharmacy” in WNC and Asheville, Sona offers free delivery and enhanced pharmacy care to all of Western North Carolina.

805 Fairview Road, Asheville 828-348-3000

SonaPharmacy.com

PRIVATE CARE MANAGEMENT

Aging Life Care Association

Information on selecting and a locator for finding aging life-care experts. AgingLifeCare.org

Mountain Area Premier Care Navigation

Serving all WNC, Mountain Area Premier Care Navigation matches Aging Life Care™ Managers to seniors requesting guidance for the navigation of the complexities of aging and/or health care services. One-time consultation to ongoing support are offered.

828-772-0002

PremierCareNavigation.com

REHAB/SKILLED NURSING

CarePartners Outpatient Rehabilitation

With CarePartners, you’ll find a team of compassionate, highly credentialed experts (physical and occupational therapists and speechlanguage pathologists) with experience unmatched by other outpatient rehabilitation providers, and a comprehensive array of outpatient services to help you increase strength, mobility, range of motion and balance.

828-274-6100

CarePartners.org

CarePartners Rehab Hospital

SEE PAGE 25

An 80 -bed inpatient facility for acute rehabilitation, we offer rehabilitation programs for a multitude of illnesses, injuries and conditions, from stroke to traumatic brain injury to amputation.

6 8 Sweeten Creek Road, #A, Asheville 828-274-6151

CarePartners.org

Carolina Village Rehabilitation

SEE PAGE 25

Located within the campus of Carolina Village, the Medical Center is available to the community for short term rehab when space is available.

600 Carolina Village Road, Hendersonville 828-692-6275 ext. 214

CarolinaVillage.com

Givens Estates Health Center

SEE BACK COVER

Located on the Givens Estates campus, the Health Center provides short-term rehabilitation to on campus residents as well as the community.

600 Barrett Lane, Asheville 828-771-2900

GivensEstates.org

SEE PAGE 49

Givens Highland Farms Health Care Center

Located on our Givens Highland Farms campus, the Health Care Center offers short and long term stays to on campus residents and the community.

200 Tabernacle Road, Black Mountain 828-669-6473

GivensHighlandFarms.org

Hendersonville Health & Rehabilitation

Madison Health & Rehabilitation

Madison Health strives to provide a homelike environment with resident centered treatment plans to maximize our residents' quality of life.

345 Manor Road, Mars Hill 828-689-5200

SanStoneHealth.com/ Locations/Madison SEE PAGE 41

StoneCreek Health & Rehabilitation

StoneCreek Health & Rehabilitation is a 112-bed skilled nursing facility, specializing in short term rehabilitation and long term care.

455 Victoria Road, Asheville 828-252-0099

SanStoneHealth.com/ Locations/StoneCreek

The Laurels of GreenTree Ridge

SEE PAGE 41

Specializing in short-term rehab from injury, surgery, stroke, and illness. Providing highest levels of clinical care for a multitude of diagnoses.

70 Sweeten Creek Road, Asheville 828-274-7646

LaurelsofGreenTreeRidge.com SEE PAGE 55

The Laurels of Hendersonville

Offering therapy 7 days a week by the dedicated in-house therapy staff. Their goal is to get you home sooner, safer and stronger.

290 Clear Creek Road, Hendersonville 828-692-6000

LaurelsofHendersonville.com SEE PAGE 55

The Laurels of Summit Ridge

Providing a complete range of services for patients unable to return home after a hospitalization and care for individuals with a wide range of illnesses.

100 Riceville Road, Asheville 828-299-1110

LaurelsofSummitRidge.com SEE PAGE 55

The Lodge at Mills River

PAGE 49

Specializes in short term care, long term care, respite care, and outpatient therapy in a clean, safe, and professional environment.

104 College Drive, Flat Rock 828-693-8600

SanStoneHealth.com

SEE PAGE 41

A leader in short term rehabilitation. The Lodge offers private rooms for your comfort and rehab needs. Visit our community and dedicated staff today.

5593 Old Haywood Road, Mills River 828-684-4857

SanstoneHealth.com

SEE PAGE 41

RESIDENTIAL DOWNSIZING

Creative Downsizing

Trust Creative Downsizing’s experience for help in selling what you don’t need. Re-sizing, up-sizing, redecorating and downsizing may sound simple, but they’re not always easy. Get help with what to keep, what will sell, and what to donate to worthy causes. Get your free personalized consultation. Call or text Freda at 828-712-9722 . 828-712-9722

Facebook.com/FredasTreasureChest

SEE PAGE 59

Silver Pathways Consulting

Taking the mystery out of downsizing. Silver Pathways helps you create a downsizing plan personalized to your unique circumstances.

20 Peachtree Lane, Hendersonville 828-989-7049

SilverPathwaysHome.com

Steve Dozier Group – Brokers

Carolyn Dozier | Steve Dozier | Kim Owen

SEE PAGE 74

Brooks-Howell Home

Offering respite care for 3 to 30 days in a holistic caring environment with a stellar clinical staff to resident ratio. Your loved one will receive a personcentered approach to care while benefiting from a private room with views of our landscaped grounds. Brooks-Howell offers a resident-centric culinary and recreational experience with medical and therapy services.

266 Merrimon Avenue, Asheville 828-253-6712

B rooks-Howell.org

SAFETY

General Safety

NC Silver Alert Program

NC Department Public Safety disseminates information and issues alerts about missing seniors. 3320 Garner Road, Building 17, Garner 800-522-5437 | NCDPS.org

Smart 9-1-1 - Henderson County Sheriff

Whether you’re ready to downsize or choose an alternate living arrangement, our trusted group of real estate advisors has the experience to assist you with preparing and marketing your home for the highest return on your investment. Give us a call and let’s sit down to discuss what your options look like. We look forward to hearing from you. 828 471 4045

SteveDozierGroup@Beverly-Hanks.com

SEE INSIDE FRONT COVER

RESPITE CARE

Local Councils on Aging (COA) receive limited funding to provide family caregivers with grants for respite care. Funding can be used for home care, day programs, and overnight respite programs. Contact the COA nearest you for more information and to apply for a grant.

Council on Aging of Buncombe County 46 Sheffield Circle, Asheville 828-277-8288

COABC.org/Programs/Caregiver-Support

Council on Aging of Henderson County 105 King Creek Boulevard, Hendersonville 828-692-4357

COAHC.org/Caregiver-Services

Online sign up to provide first responders with medical and other important information in advance of an emergency. To sign up, you must register online. The sheriff’s office provides a computer in the lobby for those that want to sign up, but do not have access to a computer at home. 828-697-4596 | Smart911 .com

Home Management, Errands & Repairs

Seniors Safe at Home Program

Council on Aging of Buncombe County Programs include Minor Home Repair, Heat Relief, Call-ARide, and food delivery and food assistance. 46 Sheffield Circle, Asheville 828-277-8288 | COABC.org

Telephone Check-In

Buncombe County Sheriff Reassurance Program

Senior Check-In Program

The Sheriff's office calls enrolled seniors daily to check welfare. Call to sign up. 828-250-6670

BuncombeCounty.org/Sheriff

Henderson County Sheriff’s Office Nixle

Emergency Alerts

Updates residents in real-time for localized emergencies and relevant community advisories. Nixle alerts allow the Sheriff’s Office to send important and valuable public safety and community information directly to residents who subscribe to the free service. Residents can customize their account and decide if the information is delivered via text message, email or over the web. Text the word HENDERSON to 888777 from your mobile phone to sign up or visit Nixle.com.

Henderson County Sheriff Reassurance Program

Senior Check-In Program

Enrolled seniors call the Sheriff's Office each day to verify their well-being. If a call is not received, the Sheriff's Office checks on the senior. To see if you are located in an area that is covered by the program or to sign up, call 828-697-4912

HendersonCountyNC.org/Sheriff

Transylvania County Sheriff Reassurance Program

Sheriff’s office calls enrolled seniors daily to check welfare. Call for application. 828-884-3168

TCSONC .org/Community/Senior-Programs

SENIOR CENTERS

Buncombe County

Harvest House Community Center –Asheville Parks and Recreation

Physical and social activities for adults and seniors. Woodshop, weaving studio, clay studio, mosaic glass, dance and exercise classes, social games, billiard tables, day trips and luncheons.

205 Kenilworth Road, Asheville 828-350-2051 | AshevilleNC.gov/Parks

Senior Opportunity Center

A full schedule of activities and senior dining program. Lunch reservations required a week in advance.

36 Grove Street, Asheville 828-350-2062

AshevilleNC.gov/Parks

Haywood County

Haywood County Senior Resource Center

Provides older adults in Haywood County with resources, activities, and assistance. View website for calendar of events and resource links.

81 Elmwood Way, Waynesville 828-356-2800

HaywoodSeniors.org

Henderson County

Mills River Life Enrichment Center (MRLEC)

Senior fellowship with a program and lunch every Thursday. Please contact for updates.

Mills River United Methodist Church

137 Old Turnpike Road, Mills River 828-808-5581 | MillsRiverUMC.org

Sammy Williams Center

A full schedule of activities and classes for seniors, weekdays, 9:00am-1:00pm. Lunch available for seniors who qualify; meal served at 11:45am. Please visit the website for updates.

3 01 North Justice Street, Hendersonville 828-692-3320

COAHC.org/Sammy-Williams-Center

Polk County

The Meeting Place

A safe, comfortable place to meet friends and enjoy activities. Please visit the website for schedule updates.

75 Carmel Lane, Columbus 828-894-0001 | PolkNC.org

25 Shield Drive, Green Creek 828-863-2795

PolkCountyMeetingPlace.com | PolkNC.org

Saluda Senior Center

Open weekdays with classes and activities for seniors. Please visit the website for schedule updates.

64 Greenville Street, Saluda 828-749-9245 | PolkNC.org

Rutherford County

Rutherford County Senior Center

Provides senior adults opportunities to help maintain and enhance quality of life, including activities and lunch. View website for calendar.

193 Callahan-Koon Road, Suite 132 , Spindale 828-287-6409

RutherfordCountyNC.gov/ Departments/Senior_Center

Transylvania County

Silvermont Opportunity Center

Providing services and activities to invigorate and enhance the quality of life for adults greater than the age of 60 in Transylvania County. Silvermont Opportunity Center provides a range of services, activities, programs, and opportunities to encourage active aging and improve the health and well-being of our older adults. Please visit website for schedule updates.

364 East Main Street, Brevard 828-884-3166

TCPR .RecDesk.com/Community/ Page?PageId=19058

SENIORS REAL ESTATE SPECIALISTS®

Steve Cooper Real Estate, LLC

Your trusted advisor through the real estate piece of your life’s puzzle. Get your free, up-to-date estimate of the value of your home and your personal guide to selling. Call Steve at 828-712-0076 828-712-0076

Connect2AshevilleHomes.com

TRANSPORTATION, APPOINTMENTS AND ERRANDS

Call-A-Ride

Council on Aging of Buncombe County, Inc. Volunteer transportation for eligible Buncombe County seniors who lack access to other forms of transportation. Transportation is limited within Buncombe County.

828-277-8288 | COABC .org

Henderson County—WNCSource Transportation

Free transportation Assistance within Henderson County for residents over age 60. Weekday trips to Sammy Williams Center Congregate meal and light shopping program, medical (non-emergency) transportation to hospital, doctor and clinic sites. Shopping program for county residents. All services based on availability.

828-698-8571

WNCSource.org

Mountain Mobility

Mountain Mobility offers no-cost transportation services to seniors age 60 and older in Buncombe County. Their vehicle operators are highly trained professionals who offer door-to-door service and can assist with most mobility needs.

828-250-6750

BuncombeCounty.org/ Transportation

Polk County—Anyone Can Ride

Rides by appointment, as well as regularly scheduled shopping trips.

828-894-8203

PolkNC.org/Departments/Transportation

Transylvania County

Senior Adult Transportation & Med-Drive Rides to nutrition sites, shopping, recreational centers, and medical appointments.

828-884-3203

TransylvaniaCounty.org/Departments/ Transportation

Visit the Aging Resources Website!

View a digital version of the magazine with direct links to all provider websites for easy access to more information. You’ll also find a searchable resource directory and helpful articles.

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