Plus! Vibrant & Fun New standards in senior living
Enriched Senior Living summer/fall 2011
The Wellness Issue How pets improve our health
Easy & effective nutrition ideas
Entertaining fitness programs
A Publication of Spectrum Retirement Communities, LLC
The TEAM LEADER who saw a disease steal her father’s past and is determined not to let it take her daughter’s future.
Spectrum Retirement Communities, LLC offers flexible, affordable month-to-month rental programs, enabling residents to enjoy the luxury they desire without a prohibitive financial commitment
©2011 Alzheimer’s Association. All rights reserved.
BE A PART OF THE MOVEMENT TO RECLAIM THE FUTURE. START A TEAM. JOIN A TEAM.
or buy-in fee. Lifestyle options include independent, assisted living, and memory care. Spectrum Retirement Communities, LLC has multiple locations in nine states across the country. To learn more or find a community near you, call 888-516-2188 or visit us online
alz.org/walk 800.272.3900
at www.spectrumretirement.com.
John Sevo managing director
DENVER | CITY PARK | SAT SEPT 17, 2011 | 9 AM
Jeff Kraus managing director
PURCELL & AMEN, L.L.C. Attorneys at Law
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Kathleen MacDonald editor and vice President of Marketing
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Welcome to Spectrum Wellness. It’s a broad yet poignant term we use to describe a person’s overall state of well-being. Wellness is physical fitness; it’s mental clarity; it’s spiritual wholeness. As we age, it’s ever more important to tend to ourselves, to eat well and to stay fit. And that’s what this issue is dedicated to: senior wellness. At Spectrum Retirement Communities, we promote overall health with entertaining fitness classes, nutritious dining programs and a vibrant social network. Read about SpectraFitness on page 14, a unique collection of exercise classes designed to make fitness fun. Get the scoop on healthy eating from our own nutrition expert in “We Are What We Eat,” on page 11. And discover how volunteering in your community not only benefits those around you, but actually promotes better health within as well. Also in this issue, we offer families some experienced insight on how to tackle the stigma of moving into a senior living community. It can be a difficult decision to make, but often the best one for an individual or family looking to maintain a vibrant lifestyle while easing the responsibilities of independent living. Check out our short-term stay program on page 22, the perfect way to try out a Spectrum community with no obligation. And as always, we like to feature our fantastic residents in these pages. Meet three of our wonderful centenarians and several of our resident pets in this issue’s personal profile pieces. We hope you enjoy this issue of Spectrum Enriched Living Magazine and we look forward to hearing from you. Spectrum — This feels like home. John Sevo and Jeff Kraus Managing Directors Spectrum Retirement Communities, LLC s p e ct rum / su m m e r/ fa ll 20 1 1
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Spectrum Lifestyle
CONTENTS
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05
Humanity united for good One Spectrum community makes a big deal out of small deeds.
08
the greater good Volunteering in your local community benefits everyone involved.
Spectrum Wellness
11
we are what we eat
14
spectrafitness
16
reflections
Proper nutrition is an important — and easy — ingredient to thriving as we age.
Spectrum’s entertaining exercise programs make it fun to stay fit.
Three resident centenarians share their sage insights.
Spectrum Advisor
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this feels like home
the pet effect
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prepared for anything
Meet some residents’ furry friends and find out how they can improve overall well-being
Inside Spectrum
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When is the right time to consider a senior living community?
Long Term Care Insurance helps us prepare for the unexpected.
looking ahead Two new communities to open in Missouri.
life st yle
HUGS Humanity United for Good ™
Oregon community turns small deeds into greater good
What originally started as a small caring committee at one Spectrum community has turned into something greater than anyone ever imagined. Eric Lindley, the Director of Fun at Pheasant Pointe Senior Living in Molalla, Oregon and another staff member started the caring committee and then decided that it needed a name. Thus, the HUGS™ committee was formed in March 2008. HUGS™ is an acronym that stands for Humanity United for Good. The in-house marketing department created a logo for the group and T-shirts were then made. In September 2009, the HUGS™ committee got press when the local newspaper ran a story about the group making hats for the homeless. From there, the committee began garnering more attention. The HUGS™ committee requested that Congressman Kurt Schrader come to Pheasant Pointe. He visited the community in 2010 which pleased the residents, especially the members of the committee. The HUGS™ committee began to spread to other retirement communities in the area as individuals realized the value of the group. In late 2010 and early 2011, Lindley worked hard to designate a day as HUGS™ Day. He went to the state government and lobbied for a special day to be named in honor of the HUGS™ committee. On May 5, 2011 the Legislative Assembly of the State of Oregon declared June 18, 2011 as HUGS™ Day in Oregon. The HUGS™ committee of Pheasant Pointe currently sponsors a local food bank, and is regularly involved with other projects that bring good to the retirement community, as well as the local community of Molalla.
A Note of Thanks Eric, I wanted to express my gratitude and congratulations on the wonderful job you did last week getting HCR 18 passed and testifying before the committee with Senator Gilliam. Throughout the process you and your team were professional, proficient and on-message during your visits to the Capitol and meeting with important legislators. I also wanted to say thank you to the residents of Pheasant Pointe Assisted Living and Memory Care – they deserve much more praise than I can easily do via email! The ones who came by on March 23rd were a joy to have in the building and I hope they enjoyed getting a chance to advocate for their resolution and learn about the legislative process. Again, thank you for all your help in pulling this off – it was a great success! Dale Penn II Government Affairs Oregon Health Care Association
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The
Pet Effect Five ways that pet ownership can benefit your health
We all love our furry friends. They make us laugh, keep us company, and stand loyally by our side By Brendan Harrington through thick and thin. But did you know that owning a pet is actually good for your health, too? Now, science is proving what many inherently know: Pets make us feel better. Caring for an animal offers many physical and mental health benefits from decreased blood pressure to increased social interaction. Animals can boost our immune systems, lower our stress level, and even help us stay physically fit. Here are five ways that pet ownership benefits your health.
1. Improve physical fitness People who own dogs tend to be more physically active than those who do not. Taking your dog for a 15-minute walk every morning and evening gets you out of the house and engaged in healthy physical activity. Even playing a small game of fetch keeps you moving and is good for your physical fitness. A study published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society shows that seniors who own pets are more physically fit and feel better overall.
2. Lower blood pressure and cholesterol Numerous studies show that pet owners have lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels than people who do not have pets. The mere act of petting an animal has been proven to lower our stress levels and improve our blood pressure. Spending time with animals or physically
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touching them can lower cortisol levels in the body and increase the production of serotonin.
3. Alleviate loneliness and depression Pets are terrific companions, particularly for people who are lonely or don’t have any family nearby. Not only do our four-legged friends provide unconditional love and friendship, but they can make it easier to meet new people and improve social interaction. Studies show that pet ownership buffers feelings of social isolation in seniors, and generates friendly interaction with others.
4. Help to prevent heart disease Research demonstrates long-term benefits of pet ownership. One 20-year study indicates that people who owned cats were 40 percent less likely to suffer a heart attack than people who did not. Another study suggests that dog owners recovered better one year after having a heart attack. Statistically, pet owners have a lower risk of cardiac disease.
5. Make you happy Pets encourage playfulness, laughter and companionship. They provide comfort, company and greater opportunities to interact with other people. They can become a member of the family, keeping us happy and engaged mentally, physically and socially. Pets benefit our health on many levels, giving us a sense of purpose while keeping us calm and happy.
Spectrum Family Pets Patty Schmaus started looking for a new home in senior housing about three years ago. She was concerned with the location and amenities, of course, but knew that the place she chose would absolutely have to accept her beloved West Highland Terrier, Cookie. Patty rescued Cookie four years prior and could not imagine life without her. Throughout her life Patty had taken care of dogs and enjoyed their companionship. Patty was “very happily surprised� to find Park Meadows Senior Living in Overland Park, Kansas. Not only did Park Meadows welcome Cookie, but Patty was able to secure a first floor apartment with a fenced in yard! Patty is thrilled that even in snowy weather Cookie can get outside. Cookie, on the other hand, prefers to be indoors and tiptoes outside when it is raining! Patty enjoys frequent visits from her family and friends and is very active in community activities. But nothing can replace the day-to-day friendship and companionship that she has with Cookie! s p e ctrum / s u m m e r/ fa ll 20 1 1
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The Greater Good Why Volunteer? Because it is good for you! While you may want to make a difference in someone else’s life or support the community where you live, the personal benefits of volunteer work are monumental. As you make a positive difference in another person’s life, you can enhance your own as well. The right volunteer job match can help you find new friends, build your confidence, improve your mental and physical health, learn new skills, and even have some fun. As a volunteer, you get a lot out of the experience on a personal level while you contribute to the greater good. Truly, volunteer work is rewarding for everyone involved. 8
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By Brenda Hunt
Make New Friends One of the best ways to make new friends and strengthen existing relationships is to commit to a shared activity together. Volunteering is a great way to meet new people, especially if you are new to a community. It also exposes you to people with common interests while doing fun and fulfilling activities. It is a way to engage and be a part of your community. It is a way to plug yourself in again and get charged up. Another important benefit of volunteering and making new friends is that it reduces the risk of depression. Social isolation is a common cause of depression among seniors and
volunteer work keeps you in regular contact with others, helping you develop a strong system of support.
Improve Your Confidence Volunteering can provide a healthy boost to your self-confidence. You are doing something good for others and that provides a sense of accomplishment. The better you feel about yourself, the more likely you are to have a positive view about your life. You also may learn and do things that you otherwise would not get a chance to do. This is a real confidence booster.
Improve Your Health Volunteering offers you tangible physical and mental health benefits as well. It makes you feel good, and is beneficial at any age, but especially for older adults. A 10-year study of the physical and social activities of 2,700 men in Tecumseh, Michigan, found that those who did regular volunteer work had death rates 2 1/2 times lower than those who did not. A study at Cornell University documented a similar trend in women: Those who volunteer are 16 percent less likely to experience a major illness during the course of their lifetime than those who do not. Could this be because volunteers connect with other people on a positive social level? Research has shown that if you have a strong social support system you will tend to have overall better health than those who spend their time alone. Studies have also shown that volunteering can strengthen the immune system and alleviate pain. There is scientific evidence behind humanitarianism such as: individuals over 65 who volunteer are significantly less likely to die within the next eight years than those who do not volunteer. There is a phenomenon called a “helper’s high� which produces euphoric feelings similar
Work Experience Program By Stacey Johnson / Park Meadows Senior Living
We feel honored to have had the chance to work with students from the Shawnee Mission School District Work Experience program. The program places young adults from high school to 21 years of age into a place of business. At that time designated job coaches evaluate their ability to complete tasks and follow directions as given to them by the management team. If they excel in their assigned job, the job coaches work with them to find the perfect place of employment, whether here at Park Meadows or somewhere else. So far, we have employed three students from the program and several others have gone on to work with other companies. If a student is unable to perform the job, Park Meadows offers them the opportunity to come back and volunteer as much as they would like. We started with the program in October 2008 and have enjoyed every student that has participated. We will continue to partner with this group as long as they will have us. The students bring such a wonderful energy into our community which is indescribable. The benefits of the program are mutual as we enjoy having them and seeing them grow from the experience.
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to the “endorphin high” that follows a good workout. Helper’s high can last for weeks and often returns when the memories of volunteering are recalled.
Learn New Skills and Have FUN Volunteering is a fun and easy way to explore your interests or find a new passion. Doing volunteer work you find meaningful, can be a relaxing and energizing escape from your day-to-day routine. Volunteering can also provide you with renewed creativity, motivation, and vision that carries over into your personal life. Volunteering is not just something that you do for others who are less fortunate. It is an exchange of services. You may also be in need of help at some point in your life, so you may become the recipient of another volunteer in the future. That is the exchange. Fill your own bank for future withdrawals. Do you have a couple of hours in your schedule when you could be doing something productive? If so, and you want to make a positive difference in your life and the lives of others, contact a Spectrum community to find out if one of our volunteer opportunities is right for you. Does your commitment match our community’s needs? Why do you want to volunteer? What do you enjoy doing? Does your personality click with the community? If the volunteer opportunities match both your reasons why as well as your interests, it will probably be the most fun and fulfilling choice for you. Make volunteer work part of the fabric in your everyday life, and share the benefits all around. Get yourself a helper’s high.
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Seniors For Seniors By Tonya Wilson / Pine Ridge Villas of Shelby
One Friday in November, the activities Department at the Villas of Shelby, announced a canned food drive to support the local community, in conjunction with the Utica High School Key Club. The following Monday, we placed a box outside of the office and before the day was through, it was full. We already needed to add another box! The residents had given generously with an outpouring of their hearts. The food drive lasted through the week. We then loaded the community limo with three volunteer residents and mounds of donated food. Together, we drove to Utica High School, where teacher Rob Maycheck and his students were waiting for us to help unload. It was a terrific community effort, and a rewarding experience for everyone involved!
We Are What We Eat
Now more than ever, proper nutrition plays a vital role in our health By Perry EauClaire / Spectrum Retirement Communities
Recently, the government replaced the old familiar ‘food pyramid’ with a dinner plate. Most of us grew up with the old pyramid but few of us will miss it. When we were young we were not to be bothered with such trivia. However, now that we are older and wiser, nutrition takes a new focus in our lives. We care what happens to our bodies. We cannot control the aging process but we can certainly try to turn it in a better direction. The new pyramid, aka dinner plate, allows for five groups, including dairy products ‘on the side.’ The main plate contains four categories
— fruit, vegetable, protein, and grains — with the expectation that half of the meal should contain fruits and vegetables. For dairy, fat-free or low fat products are encouraged. For all foods, try to avoid sodium (salt) if possible. And, needless to say, we need to leave the sweets alone. It is important to be aware of the sodium in foods we eat. Sodium is generally very high in prepared foods like canned soup or frozen meals. Sodium can lead to health problems such as high blood pressure, edema (swelling, such as in the ankles), and other health issues. Try to reach for fresh foods which do not have
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additives or preservatives, as sodium is frequently used as a preservative. So now that we’ve taken the fun out of meal time, let’s see if we can put it back! What are the good things we can enjoy? There are plenty of them! Who doesn’t love a juicy blueberry in the summertime? How about salmon fresh off the grill? Let’s take a look at each of the portions on our new ‘plate.’
artificial ingredients added including coloring to make it look fresh at the market. With all of the proteins, choose those that are lower in fat. For example, take the skin off the chicken and purchase lean ground beef. Check the labels on processed meats like ham, as they may include a lot of sodium. Too much sodium (salt) can lead to high blood pressure and a variety of health problems.
Protein
Fruit
This group includes poultry, meats, seafood, eggs, beans, nuts, and peas. It’s a large group! Salmon is not only incredible as a ‘brain food,’ but also has physical health benefits. It is rich in fatty acids such as Omega-3. Omega3’s have been found to decrease anxiety in some people as well as improve artery health. Other fish and seafood such as trout, sardines, anchovies, oysters, and mackerel have some of the same qualities as salmon and should also be included in the diet. It is important to note that wild salmon is probably best when compared to farm raised, because farm raised may have
Any fruit or 100 percent fruit juice can be included here. The fruits may be fresh or frozen, but remember to avoid the canned items which may be loaded with sugars. Blueberries and Acai berries are fabulous foods for a number of reasons. They are considered ‘brain food’ but also have other benefits. The Acai berries contain Omega-3’s like the salmon. Blueberries, blackberries, and acai berries are loaded with antioxidants. Additionally, the acai berry also has protein! But, there is a lot of fruit to choose from. Go down the fresh fruit and vegetable aisle at the grocery store and load up! Fresh is always best.
Grains Grains include items made from wheat, rice, oats, barley, cornmeal, or cereal grains. Examples in this group include bread, pasta, oatmeal, cereals, and grits. There are also whole grains and refined grains. Whole kernel grains would
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include whole wheat flour or brown rice. Refined grains, such as white flour or white rice, have been milled so that the bran and germ are removed. If you are not sure, check the labels. When choosing grains, make at least half of your grains whole grains. Avoid the highly processed items like white bread when you can. A whole grain diet not only lends itself to better nutritional value but also to increased fiber. A higher fiber content in your diet will assist with digestion and ultimately make you feel better.
Vegetables This group includes vegetables by themselves as well as vegetable juice if it is 100 percent vegetable juice. The government puts vegetables into five subgroups based on nutrient content. But, rather than confusing things, let’s look at it this way: The more color the better. Lighter colors like potatoes tend to be more starch. Dark greens, bright reds or oranges, can add color to your dinner plate and value to your nutrition. Vegetables are full of nutrients as well as fiber. Load up!
Eating Healthy Unfortunately, there can be barriers to enjoying a healthy diet. Let’s discuss a few of those barriers. Decreased sensitivity: Appetites normally diminish with aging. A decline in the sense of smell or taste can also affect the ability to enjoy food. If the food doesn’t taste good to us, we are less likely to eat it. Side effects of medication: Some medications can reduce appetite and even make food taste odd. Again, if it
doesn’t taste good to us, we probably won’t eat it. Dental health: Dental health is key to good nutrition. Be watchful for jaw pain, ill-fitting dentures, mouth sores or tooth pain. Physical issues: Sometimes with arthritic fingers it becomes painful to open items. It can also be difficult to maneuver utensils. Many items are available to help with these problems. Let your health care provider know and they can help. Depression: Life can become more difficult as we age. We often give up things as the aging process develops. We may sell a home, watch friends move away, or children leave the nest. This is a manageable condition and it is important to let your health care provider know. It all boils down to this: When we were younger our bodies could tolerate things better. How many times have you wondered how you survived all the crazy things you did as a youngster? If you ate a whole bag of potato chips when you were 16 your ankles didn’t swell up. If you snuck a few extra cookies after school the only problem was if Mom found out. Now, those cookies are stuck not only on our tummies but in our arteries. Therefore, nutrition matters now more than ever. Make sensible choices in your diet and watch the portions. Brown rice is great for you … but probably not a plateful. If you are already a resident at a Spectrum Retirement Community, you are fortunate. Our chefs purchase healthy, fresh ingredients and avoid prepared foods. They do their best to offer balanced, appealing meals. You just need to enjoy them!
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SpectraFitness Spectrum’s unique approach to exercise makes it fun to be fit By Brenda Hunt
At Spectrum Retirement
Communities, we understand and respect the importance of physical activity. An active body makes for an active mind and healthy soul. We offer a variety of creative exercise programs for residents, to keep them active, healthy and most importantly … having fun! SpectraFitness, Spectrum’s physical fitness component, consists of activities that provide exercise for the body, mind and spirit. The purpose of our SpectraFitness programs is to promote a healthy lifestyle through fun exercise and physical activity. SpectraFitness programs include stretching, breathing, walking, dancing, laughing, and fun recreational activities. SpectraFitness programs are geared specifically to the functional needs of the adults residing in our communities. Recreational activities
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such as Wii games, Balloon Volleyball, Bean Bag Toss, Horseshoes, and Dancing, produce the same benefits as our more traditional exercise programs and they are more fun! Some of our residents’ favorite activities are: Seniorcize
Walking Club
SpectraBalance
Arthritis Stretch
Strong Bodies & Minds
Tai Chi
Flexercise
Sit & Be Fit
WHOGA
Sittercise
Chair Dancing
Techno Gym
SpectraFitness offers a variety of exercise programs so that you never get bored with the same old routine. We make fitness entertaining and constantly change the routine, just to keep it fresh.
Fit Body, Fit Brain David Noreika moved into Rigden Farm Senior Living from Sun City, Arizona last September. David spent his life working in many different fields including bookbinding, insurance sales, and as a baker for the United States Air Force, baking for 50,000 people. Throughout his careers, he not only had to use his hands but his vision as well. However, about five years ago at the age of 74, David began to lose his vision. He came to Rigden still able to see shadows and light but over the last eight months, David has lost his vision completely. When David first came to Rigden, he wore dark sunglasses and used a walking cane. It was a challenging transition to find his way around a new place, with new people, but David remained positive. He worked hard to find his way around by counting the steps and receiving help from the willing residents. As David gradually became more comfortable and familiar with the building, he became more active. The fitness instructor at Rigden met with David and got him started on a personal training program in the fitness center. The customized program was an eight-week course and though there were challenges, David completed it. He now uses the fitness center like a pro! David was a runner and always loved the outdoors. Running is no longer an option but walking is. The team at Rigden set up two volunteers to come in and walk with David and he now enjoys walking several days a week. He also participates in the community’s Wednesday Walk-n-Roll. While physical exercise is important to David, so is mental exercise. He meets for Marvelous Minds twice each week and is actively involved. Not only does he participate in the exercises but at the end of the session he says, “Now I’ve got one for you...” and gives us a trivia question or some little tidbit. Brain Fitness has been good for David and good for the group. Although David is visually impaired, he is not just surviving at Rigden Farms, he is THRIVING!
Tai Chi Improves
Sleep Quality
One component of the SpectraFitness program, Tai Chi has proven health benefits including flexibility, balance, and better sleep. Poor sleep quality is a common problem among older adults. Many have moderate sleep complaints, in which they experience insomnialike symptoms but are not yet diagnosed with insomnia. Sedative medications are commonly used to treat sleep disorders but can cause harmful side effects. Behavioral interventions such as cognitive behavioral therapy are not always practical. Few treatments focus on improving sleep quality in people with moderate complaints. But Tai Chi, a Chinese slow-motion meditative exercise, may serve as an effective approach to a better night’s rest. Researchers at the University of California Los Angeles conducted a randomized controlled trial to determine whether Tai Chi could improve sleep quality in healthy, older adults with moderate sleep complaints. In the study, 112 individuals aged 59 to 86 participated in either Tai Chi training or health education classes for 25 weeks. Participants self-rated their sleep quality based on duration and disturbances. The results of the study showed that the people who participated in Tai Chi sessions experienced improved sleep quality. The researchers concluded that tai chi can be a useful non-pharmacological approach and more practical behavior intervention to improve sleep quality in older adults with moderate sleep complaints and may help to prevent the onset of insomnia. With the variety of fitness programs available through SpectraFitness, it’s easy to try Tai Chi, and keep your fitness routine fun.
Reflections Three Spectrum centenarians share their thoughts on life, love, and the joys of dancing cities and retired after 39 years as Manager of Ground Services. After that I owned several Dairy Queen restaurants and volunteered for the Salvation Army.
Q: What about exercise and diet in your life? A: I have worked out at the YMCA four or five times a week. When I turned 99 they gave me a free membership. Q: What do you enjoy doing? A: I loved to garden in my backyard and have
always done my own cooking.
Q: What keeps you going so strong today? A: I attribute my longevity to never smok-
Wayne Sableman Lakeview Senior Living Birthday: July 25, 1910
ing, drinking modestly, watching my diet, exercising four times a week in the Lakeview wellness center, and spending time with my girlfriend.
Q: Any regrets? Q: Can you share some favorite memories
from your childhood?
A: I grew up on a farm in Mead, Nebraska
and had one sister and one brother.
Q: What did you do for a living? A: I worked for United Airlines in several 16
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A: The only regret I have is that I did not pursue more education beyond attending Business College. Q: If you could do anything today, what would it be? A: Celebrate my 101st birthday!
husband passed away. I was a telephone operator at Comerica Bank, where my husband had worked. They called and offered me the job because I needed to support my sons and send them to school.
Q: What did your parents do?
Joyce Oppat maple heights retirement community Birthday: april 11, 1911
Q: What are the most important things in life? A: To treat all people with respect and to main-
A: My parents owned a general store in England. They sold tobacco and candy. My dad sold the tobacco products, and my mother worked hard in the candy area. My mother also took care of us seven children at the same time. Q: What role does attitude play in your health and longevity? A: It is necessary to have a positive attitude. It helps you to handle all experiences in life and to overcome the hardships.
tain a great relationship with family.
Q: What about exercise and diet in your life?
Q: What matters most?
balanced, healthy diet.
A: To treat others as I would like to be treated. Q: Did you marry?
A: At 100 years old I still exercise and eat a wellQ: What do you enjoy doing? A: I love to read, and I enjoy doing word search and
A: I married Theodore “Ted� Oppat at the Grace
Reform Church on the west side of Detroit, Michigan in 1936. I met him on the Bob-Lo Boat.
crossword puzzles. I also enjoy dancing and watching TV. I believe you have to keep your brain active in order to stay young.
Q: What was the greatest adventure in your life?
Q: What keeps you going so strong today?
A: After my husband passed away at 62 years
old, I went to work and was able to send our two sons to college. I was 60 when I started out in the working world. I worked for 17 years and retired at 77 years old.
Q: Can you share some memories from your
A: I contribute my strength to having a strong faith in God. I am still active with my church.
Q: If you could do one thing in life again, what would it be? A: I would marry my husband again.
childhood?
Q: Any regrets?
A: I was born in England on April 11, 1911. We
A: I regret losing my husband at the young age of 62.
were supposed to sail on the Titanic, but we missed the boat and had to sail on the later one. I am sure that God had a better plan for me.
Q: What did you do for a living? A: I was a wife and stay-at-home mother until my
Q: If you could do anything today, what would it be? A: I love to help people, so I want to be able to continue helping people less fortunate than me. I have been so blessed to have the physical and mental abilities that I have. s p e ctrum / su m m e r/ fa ll 20 1 1
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Q: What did you do for a living? A: Worked for my parents (for free). Q: What did your parents do? A: They were farmers — oat, corn and barley
farmers
Q: What role does attitude play in your health and longevity? A: I always had a healthy respect for my body, never smoked, never drank, maintained a balanced diet with meat, fruit, vegetables and dairy. Q: What about exercise and diet in your life? A: I always ate healthy, jumped rope, rode a bike,
and swam.
Q: What do you enjoy doing? A: I used to dance. My husband and I used
Marie Everhart lincoln meadows Birthday: april 24, 1911
to pass up a steak dinner for a dance. I always enjoyed church work, singing in choir, and teaching Sunday School.
Q: What keeps you going so strong today? Q: What are the most important things in life? A: Jesus and church. Q: What matters most? A: Putting God first in my life and acknowledging him daily. Q: What should one’s priorities be? A: God, family, children, others. Q: What was the greatest adventure in your life? A: My trip to Canada was fantastic! Butchart
Q: If you could do one thing in life again, what
would it be?
A: Dance!! Q: Did you marry? A: Yes, twice. My first marriage was at age 17, we moved to Kansas and I had four children with him. We were divorced in 1946. My second marriage was in 1948. We did not have children, and were married 60 years.
Gardens there and the wax museum.
Q: Any regrets?
Q: Can you share some memories from your childhood?
proud of the children I had with him.
A: At ten years old, I took a 50-mile horse buggy
ride with an uncle to go visit my grandparents. 18
A: My attitude for life. I love life and people.
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A: The heartache of being divorced. But I am so Q: If you could do anything today, what would it be? A: Dance, dance, dance, and then dance some more!
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Retirement communities have evolved IN
This Feels Like Home
™
Welcome to today’s senior living community
recent years into vibrant, social centers that support a healthy and active lifestyle for residents. Today’s communities debunk the old misconceptions and offer seniors a positive and welcome lifestyle alternative. Nonetheless, the idea of moving into a community can be daunting for many people. It’s a big change, after all. How do you address the question with your loved ones? How do you approach the decision as a family and feel confident you are making the right change at the right time? The secret is to take it slow, and to approach the subject at a comfortable level and pace. Ask the hard questions and communicate with your loved ones openly and honestly. Here, we offer a framework on how to decide when it’s time to move, and which type of community is right for your family. s p e ctrum / sum m e r/ fa ll 20 1 1
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When is the right time to move to a retirement community? Whether it is a decision for you or for your parents, the first thing you should know is that there is no ‘right time’ for someone to move to a retirement community. The truth is, even approaching the subject of moving to a retirement community can be uncomfortable. It is a big change but it can also be one of the most positive changes one makes in life. It’s hard to know when it’s time to make that move but consider these things: o you need help with driving, cooking, D shopping or errands?
So you've made the decision to move. Now which community is right for you? Finding a senior living community that is just right for you or your parents can be difficult — even if, by now, they’re looking forward to the security, extra help, regular meals, and social activity that it brings. Take the time to find the right fit that offers the same type of surroundings your home provided for you for so many years. The senior housing industry has done an excellent job of providing various living options with different levels of service for different levels of need. Here are some senior housing classifications to help you out:
Independent Living Communities
re the ‘basics’ of daily living being A met such as good nutrition, hygiene and taking the right medications at the right time?
Independent living refers to residence in an easy-to-maintain, private apartment or house within a community of seniors. Residents are provided with meals, housekeeping, activities and wellness programs, transportation and socialization. Independent living provides the greatest versatility and self-sufficiency.
Do you spend most of your time alone?
Assisted Living Communities
o you need help with house cleaning, D house maintenance and paying the bills?
When seniors contemplate moving, most are concerned about what they will lose. Their perception of “loss” takes on many forms, such as the loss of the ability to drive anywhere, to fix meals they desire and the loss of possessions such as furniture or artwork in their home. Change can be difficult, but also liberating because life can be easier when living in a community where hot meals are served, transportation is provided, and there are things to do with other people. It is not an “old folks home;” it is a community where people actually thrive because they are not burdened with homeownership. The most comforting part is that there is care if you need it and at whatever level you might need.
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Assisted living communities offer the safety and security of 24-hour support and access to more personal care services than an independent living situation. Bathing, medication reminders, dressing, and more are also a part of the everyday routine. Meals are typically served three times a day and are included in the cost. Housekeeping, maintenance, activities, and transportation are also included. An assisted living community may be a good choice if personal care services are needed, but roundthe-clock medical care and supervision are not.
Nursing Facilities This is the highest level of care for older adults outside of a hospital. In a nursing home, staff provides assistance with getting in and out
of bed, feeding, bathing and dressing. A high level of medical care is also provided.
Memory Care A memory care environment is designed for persons with a level of impairment making it unsafe for them to continue living at home, but who do not require the intensive care of a skilled nursing facility. In memory care, memory-impaired residents have access to 24-hour support and programs that ensure their safety and quality of life. The residences are 100 percent secure with alarmed or locked areas to ensure nobody wanders off. Usually within these secured areas, residents can enjoy indoor walking paths or outdoor paths or gardens.
Is a community affordable or is it more affordable to stay at home? Consider all the costs that come with the monthly maintenance and upkeep of a home including utilities, mortgage, and taxes. Add to that the cost of food, entertainment, and transportation. Now compare those costs with the monthly cost of a retirement community and you may be pleasantly surprised.
The hidden benefits. Safety and security are big reasons seniors and their children ultimately contemplate a move. But there are other side benefits that come from this change in lifestyle, as well. While it’s true that many people don’t like change, a move can sometimes bring a new lease on life. Many senior living residents now wish they would have moved in sooner.
Today’s choices in senior living. Senior communities today are built to be attractive, accessible and designed with special facilities catering to the needs and wants of retirees.
Mary Louise Jones Thr e e y e ars ag o , M ar y L o u is e and her husband Leonard Jones moved into the Kansas City area to be closer to their daughter and her family. Shortly thereafter, Leonard’s health took a turn for the worse and they knew they needed to move into a senior retirement community that could offer the continuum of care he would likely need down the road. The Joneses found Park Meadows Senior Living in Overland Park, Kansas and decided to move for Leonard’s best interest. The couple adapted to their new lifestyle and made many new friends who really became extended family. Sadly, last year, Mary Louise lost Leonard, who was a decorated war veteran. Mary Louise was able to lean on her new friends at Park Meadows to help her through the difficult time. One of the couple’s friends — a man who actually fought with Leonard in Iwo Jima — danced with Mary Louise at her 80th birthday party and told her, “We marines have to stick together!” Mary Louise is glad to call Park Meadows home and remains a vibrant and beautiful woman who stays busy every day helping others and enjoying her family and friends! Her family visits often and actually threw the birthday party for her at Park Meadows Senior Living.
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A great way to give senior living a try. One simple way to determine if a community is the right community is Spectrum’s unique short-term-stay program. Prospective residents can stay in a furnished apartment at any one of our communities. Because diversity among retirement communities is considerable, staying at a Spectrum community is a perfect opportunity to try the flexibility of living in a retirement community and experience this kind of lifestyle. If you would like to find out more about a Spectrum community near you, please call 888-684-1160 or go online to SpectrumRetirement.com. Spectrum Retirement Communities – This feels like home. The personalities of the people moving into this type of lifestyle option are also shaping the future of the senior housing industry. Gone are the traditional ways of looking at aging as a time when one slows down and disengages from life. Today, successful aging means maintaining an active lifestyle. Senior housing operators want to give their prospective residents many of the things they had when they still lived at home. Their new senior living home becomes an extension of their previous home. They have an easier time adjusting and getting accustomed to things simply because not much has changed. The only difference is that now they are in an environment where things are done for them. Think of what it would be like to live on a
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cruise ship or at a resort all year long and you have what residents at many senior communities are experiencing and enjoying.
Bingo is not the only game in town. Virtually every retirement community today has programs that offer a wide variety of activities and events all designed with a focus on seniors’ quality of life. Wellness is a major component of senior housing with daily exercise and physical activities, flexibility and weight-loss programs and workout routines based on individual abilities and needs. They offer computer centers with computer classes and memory skills programs. Events, entertainment, and programs offer opportunities for new interests. Spacious lounges become gathering spots for socializing and entertaining. All of these state-of-the-art amenities, and more, will continue to be featured in innovative new combinations or packages as communities continue to meet living and social needs of the growing senior population.
Visit. Have lunch. Visit again. Before choosing a senior retirement community, plan to visit at least once, although it is often helpful to visit several times. Seeing something on a second or even third visit can refresh your memory and help fill in any blanks. Be prepared to take notes and ask questions … lots of questions. Allow time to thoroughly visit the community and get a guided tour by the staff. Through a question-and-answer period always consider the first impressions, experience levels of the staff and practices and procedures of the community. Somewhere while asking all these questions, you will find the right senior community for you or your loved ones. We’re here to help you find the place that feels most like home.
What Questions Should You Ask? Spectrum Retirement Communities, LLC, has been a leader in senior housing since 2003. Headquartered in Denver, Colorado, Spectrum is a leading developer, owner, and operator of communities designed to offer excellence in services, lifestyle, security, and affordability. Lifestyle options include independent, assisted living and memory care. Each Spectrum community offers a wide variety of activities, programs and events designed for residents to enjoy hobbies, current interest and to explore new leisure pursuits. Trips are often planned to local attractions, concerts, museums and shows. “We believe that the core of our residents’ well being is the ability to create the best socialization programs possible,” says Brenda Hunt, Vice President of Fun. Amenities such as health and wellness programs are designed to promote healthy aging and encourage residents to lead balanced and productive lives. In our dining room, we feature healthy, well-balanced menu options. Spectrum Retirement Communities offer a convenient and courteous concierge service. Just pick up the telephone and we’re At Your Services™ helping to make appointments, arrange transportation, or provide information. Just as a concierge service at a hotel or resort, At Your Service™ at Spectrum is always available to help residents. At Your Service™ also includes a hospitality program that welcomes and assures that all new residents learn their way around and meet new neighbors.
Observe: Is the surrounding landscape pleasing? Is the community located in a desirable area? What is the energy of the community when you walk in the door? Does it feel like a happy place? Does it appear fresh and clean? Is the staff welcoming? (Can you get a feel for the staff turnover rate?) Are any activities occurring? Are the resident’s social and interacting with one another?
ask: How long has the retirement community been in business? Do you have an entrance fee? What is the daily/monthly/weekly fee? What services do these fees include? Are there restrictions on young children visiting? What are the activity programs? Do you have exercise facilities and wellness programs? Are there events outside of the community? Entertainment programs? Do you have a copy of the community’s newsletter or a list of monthly events that I can see? What meal programs are offered and what is the meal schedule? Can special diets be accommodated? How many entrée choices are offered? Can the residents have guests for a meal and what is the fee? Do you allow pets? s p e ct rum / sum m e r/ fa ll 20 1 1
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Prepared For Anything Long Term Care Insurance protects families from the unexpected As we age, we face more and
Insurance, roughly 24 percent of all new long term care claims are being paid for assisted living facilities.
more difficult financial decisions on how to take care of ourselves and our families. Likewise, as we age, we are more and more likely to KM: Who needs long term care coverage? need some sort of long term care, whether it is JD: We believe that almost everyone should in-home or in an assisted living facility. While consider long term care coverage. People are nobody likes to think of themselves or a loved living longer than we ever expected so the chance one needing assistance with activities of daily of needing coverage is very high. The odds of living, the possibilities are real and it is good to needing long term care benefits are significantly be prepared for the unexpected. higher than either homeowner or automobile Long term care insurance (LTCI) is designed coverage and we all carry those policies. Many to cover people who do need extended care in people assume that long term care insurance is their senior years. The costs associated with only for the elderly, but roughly one third of all this type of care can be astronomical, and while policies issued last year were to people under age LTCI is not right for everyone, it can deflect the 65. It is important to purchase coverage while devastating expenses a family might face when a you are still healthy, and the younger the better. loved one needs long term care. Here, Spectrum’s Kathleen MacDonald KM: How does an sits down with Denver individual qualify for financial advisor John benefits? Downing, president of JD: With most policies The Down Court Group, the general requireto help explain the myriad In 1994, 7.3 million Americans ment is being unable LTCI options available to needed long term care (LTC) to perform any two of you and your family. services at an average cost the six activities of daily of nearly $43,800 per year. living (ADLs), without KM: Can you describe just By 2000, this number rose to assistance. Those exactly what long term 9 million Americans at nearly activities include bathcare insurance is? $55,750 per year. It’s currenting, eating, dressing, JD: Sure, Kathleen. Long toileting, continence, term care insurance was ly near $75,000 per year. and transferring. If you once looked upon as nursBy 2030 those needing LTC cannot perform any ing home coverage, but will skyrocket to 23+ million two of those six ADLs modern policies go far Americans, with projected, without assistance you beyond that. According individual long term care costs would be eligible for to the American Associareaching $300,000 annually reimbursement. tion of Long Term Care
By The Numbers
per individual!
Source: Long Term Care National Advisory Center
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KM: Are there different types of long term care policies? JD: Yes, the range of coverage is truly amazing and is complex enough that you should work with a competent advisor to choose the right policy. As a general rule, long term care policies will cover both in-home and nursing home costs, adult day care, respite care, modification to your home such as wheelchair ramps or widening of doorways for wheelchairs, assisted living, and more. In addition, today’s policies provide an option to have a daily benefit or you can even acquire a pool of money that can be utilized as it is needed without the limitation of a daily cap on benefits. As I mentioned earlier, assisted living is included with all modern long term care policies. When you are shopping for long term care coverage consider looking at lifetime benefits as it may be only marginally more expensive than a three- to five-year benefit period. KM: How long do most claims last? JD: It’s commonly reported that the typical claim is less than three years. However, those statistics were gleaned from looking at the length of time a person stayed in a nursing home. In reality, most people go to nursing homes in the final stages of life. Most people choose to receive care in their own residence or retirement community if that is possible. While the average stay in a nursing home is 2.3 years, you may need care for a longer period of time. KM: How much is the average cost of care today? JD: The latest statistics indicate that, over a three-year period, the cost of care is approximately $225,000 per person. In 20 years that figure will be over $400,000. You should assume approximately 3 percent inflation each year.
Long Term Care Insurance Can: S upport independence by paying for Home Care and Assisted Living costs. It can give people choices in difficult circumstances. P rotect loved ones from the burdens of caregiving. e less expensive in the long run than B paying for care costs out-of-pocket. When Should I Buy Long Term Care Insurance? LTCI premiums go up in price as you age, although once you buy a policy your premiums do not rise due to aging or health. If you can afford the premium for years to come, consider buying now to protect yourself and your family. Consult your family financial advisor or insurance professional to discuss whether LTCI is right for you. Source: Long Term Care National Advisory Center
KM: Is there anything else you would like to tell our readers? JD: Given the complexity of long term care coverage, they should shop around and find a competent advisor to assist them, someone they are comfortable with. Be sure to purchase a policy from a company that is strong financially. You want to be sure that the company is still there when you have a claim. Consider purchasing a compound inflation protection because the cost of care is expected to rise considerably. You should secure a lifetime benefit. If you can afford it, the lifetime benefit is certainly worth the extra cost. Finally, ask lots of questions so you understand what you are buying.
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INSIDE
Looking Ahead
Two New Communities to Open in Missouri Spectrum Retirement Communities, LLC is excited to announce its newest communities currently under construction, both located in the greater St. Louis, Missouri area. Westview of Ellisville Assisted Living will be located in Ellisville, and Southview Assisted Living will be located in Affton. These communities will expand the Spectrum brand in Missouri by joining Crestivew Senior Living in Crestwood, and The Homestead at Hickory View in Washington. Both Westview and Southview will provide Assisted Living and Memory Care services to their residents. These communities will be smaller than others, providing a more intimate community setting. Westview and Southview will provide the best amenities in senior living by offering a theater, beauty salon, wellness center, TechnoGym™, a bistro and much more. The Memory Care communities will
feature a private dining room, living room, and beautifully landscaped and secure memory garden. Westview of Ellisville is located in the western suburbs of St. Louis County. Ellisville provides an ideal lifestyle that forms a pleasant balance between living in a rural-like setting of wooded beauty and having easy access to a thriving metropolitan area. Southview is located in southern St. Louis County, and is located near Grant’s Trail and Grant’s Farm. Both communities are expected to open in the spring of 2012. Spectrum Retirement Communities, LLC, a Denver-based senior housing owner and developer, was founded in 2003. Spectrum currently operates 21 communities in nine different states with these two additional communities under construction. Spectrum employs more than 1,000 compassionate and caring team members.
For more information on Spectrum Retirement Communities, please visit www.spectrumretirement.com. 26
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A
F U L L
SPECTRUM
O F
• Marvelous Minds • SpectraFitness • What’s News • Spectrum Travel Adventures • Just For Laughs
E V E N T S • Great Moments in Entertainment • Reflections of a Life Well Lived • History’s Mysteries • Quality Living
Visit a Spectrum Community today and be a part of what’s happening. Your mind, body and spirit will thank you!
888.516.2188
www.SpectrumRetirement.com
T R E AT
Yourself
Treat yourself or treat a loved one
Spectrum Retirement is pleased to introduce a new dining program. TREAT YOURSELF is a unique dining program that offers a new special every quarter. Featuring such items as steak and lobster for only a third of the price of an upscale restaurant. This program is seperate from the dining program. Tickets can be purchased at any Spectrum Retirement Community. www.spectrumretirement.com
Tenderloin and Lobster for $16.95 Angus choice beef and Canadian cold water lobster tail.
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This feels like home.
™
SPECTRUM RETIREMENT COMMUNITIES
Northeast Communities
Gardens at Westlake | Westlake, OH Maple Heights | Allen Park, MI Parkrose Estates | Liverpool, NY Pine Ridge Garfield | Clinton Township, MI Pine Ridge Hayes | Sterling Heights, MI Pine Ridge Plumbrook | Sterling Heights, MI Pine Ridge Villas of Shelby | Shelby Township, MI
Midwest Communities
Crestview | Crestwood, MO Homestead at Hickory View | Washington, MO Park Meadows | Overland Park, KS Shawnee Hills | Shawnee, KS Southview | St. Louis, MO - Coming Soon! Three Oaks | Cary, IL - Coming Soon! Westview at Ellisville | Ellisville, MO - Coming Soon! RETIREMENT | ASSISTED LIVING | MEMORY CARE
Northwest Communities Cedar Village | Salem, OR Ocean Crest | Coos Bay, OR Ocean Ridge | Coos Bay, OR Pheasant Pointe | Molalla, OR Redwood Heights | Salem, OR Clearwater Springs | Vancouver, WA
West Communities
Lakeview | Lakewood, CO Lincoln Meadows | Parker, CO Mountain Park | Phoenix, AZ - Coming Soon! Rigden Farm | Ft. Collins, CO Palos Verdes | Peoria, AZ
Please call or visit today!
888-516-2188
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