Health and Senior Living

Senior Regional

John & Marianne Smith Edge

INSIDE: Health & Wellness Life Styles Estate Planning Medicaid Planning Assisted Living

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15 From the editor: From the editor: In the busy noise of life, we sometimes In the so busy noise ofwe life,forget we sometimes become distracted to take become so distracted forget tothings; take care of one of the mostwe importnat care of one of the most important things ourselves. Are we truly caring for our in life; ourselves. we truly caring bodies the way weAre should?

Have we for our bodies the way Have made the right planswe toshould? make sure ourwe made the right plans make sureand ourour wealth is protected fortoourselves, wealth is protected for ourselves, and our children? children?

Senior publications have become more Senior publications become desirable than ever, ashave citizens in themore desirable thanare ever, asin more citizensage in United States now the“senior the United States are now in the “senior bracket” more than ever in history. age bracket” than ever Living in history.

The Regional Senior magazine The Regionalfor Senior Living magazine was developed a passionate cause: to was developed for a passionate cause: help mature audiences understand andto help mature audiences and have access to pertinentunderstand information, have access to pertinent information, make sure healthwise and wealthwise we make surethe health andand wealthwise are doing rightwise things; to we are doing the right things; to promote local businesses who and provide promote local businesses pertinent needs, thrive. who provide pertinent needs, thrive.this year’s As you read though As you Senior read though year’s Regional Living,this you’ll learn about Regional Senior Living, you’ll local companies and firms wholearn can about local companies firms who canyour provide answers and about protecting provideyour answers about your health, wealth andprotecting provide quality health, your wealth and provide quality assisted living options. assisted living options.

If you prefer reading the publicaiton If youthe prefer reading the publication online, Regional Senior Living online, go got to the Clarion Publishing magazine to the Clarion Publishing Company’s website:hancockclarion.com website:hancockclarion.com Company’s Click on on “Special “Special Sections” Sections” in in the the top top bar bar Click and then then click click on on the the cover cover of of the the and magazine. magazine.

Comments, ideas, ideas, or or questions questions you you Comments, might like like to to share share are are greatly greatly appreciapprecimight ated. You You can can email email me me at: at: ated.

Linda.hancockclarion@gmail.com Linda.hancockclarion@gmail.com Live long long and and prosper! prosper!

Live Linda Dillon Dillon Linda A A special special project project of of the the Clarion Clarion Publishing Publishing Company, Company, Inc. Inc. ADVERTISING ADVERTISING AND AND SUBSCRIPTION SUBSCRIPTION INFORMATION: INFORMATION: 270-927-6945 270-927-6945

CONTENTS Health Section: 4 5

Post Mastectomy Help Probiotics

6 7 9 12

Brain Supplement & Herbs Alternative Wellness Clinic Healthcare & Vaccines Cosmetic Dentistry/Implants

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Life Style - John & Marianne Edge

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Estate Planning: 25 14 17 15 21 17 20 18 15 19 19 20 18 21 22 22

Asset Preservation When a Loved One Passes Change Child’s LifeBehind What WillAYou Leave Downsizing Change A Child’s Life Estate Auctions Maximizing Retirement Accounts What Will You Leave Behind Medicaid Planning Medicaid Planning Estate Auctions Maximizing Retirement Accounts Downsizing Power of of Attorney Attorney Power

14 25

When Preservation a Loved One Passes Asset

29 29 29

Assisted Living Section: Assisted 26 AffordableLiving Retirement Section: Lifestyle 23 25 26 27 27 29 28 30 29 31 30 23

Medicare Asset Preservation Affordable Retirement Lifestyle Assisted Living Communitie Assisted Living Communitie Custom Packaged Medications Pharmeceutical Assistance Home Care/Adult Day Care Custom Medications Hospice Packaged Palliative Care Home Care/Adult Day Care Medicare

31 28 32/33 34/35

Hospice Palliative Care Pharmeceutical Assistance Senior Services Senior Discounts & Scams

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HEALTH

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ll organs and systems rely on the health of the digestive tract. Proper digestion is essential for the body to absorb and utilize the nutrients it needs.

In addition, 75% of the cells necessary for the immune system to function effectively are connected to the gastrointestinal tract.

Probiotics: Critical for Good Health Probiotics (“Pro”= Positive, “Biotic”= Life) are living microflora that play a critical role in maintaining good health. Present in many live foods, but destroyed by heat processing, live probiotic cultures populate the intestinal tract where they play a positive role in digestive and immune health.

Editor’s Choice Garden of Life Primal Defense Ultra It pays to be choosy when selecting a probiotic supplement. Some manufacturers may cut corners just to make their quotas. Other mass-produced brands ship from overseas, where manufacturing standards are far lower. It’s hard to know which brands are legit, especially if you’re a busy person. That said, finding the right probiotic it can really be a life-changer. The best brands can get your digestive system back on track, and relieve constipation, cramps, diarrhea, and bloating. A healthy gut microbiome is key to alleviating these digestive issues and much more— including better energy, improved mood, and skin health Garden of Life Primal Defense Ultra is a product I’ve used this product for 5+ years, and it’s personally kept me from getting colds and the flu. Garden of Life Primal Defense Ultra supports normal intestinal function and regularity. Its is an ultimate high potency, broad-spectrum probiotic formula, providing a 5 billion live cell count of 13 species of beneficial cultures including soil-based probiotics.

Primal Defense Ultra supports normal intestinal comfort and function, and promotes healthy intestinal elimination regularity and consistency.

It also helps maintain a healthy, balanced immune system, which is beneficial to overall health. No artificial colors or preservatives. Vegetarian capsules; gluten free You can get this product online, or better yet go to Gene’s Health Food store in Owensboro, Kentucky.

HEALTH

Post Mascectomy Garmets For Women About CherriCare and its Owner Cherri Lolley grew up in Africa where her parents were missionaries. She lived in Southeast Africa until she was 18 at which point she moved to the states “to go to school in America�. After college she worked as a nurse at Baptist Mount Claire in Birmingham, AL before moving to Owensboro to start a life. She was inspired to begin CherriCare after the birth of her daughter, Emily, who was born with multiple disabilities. As a nurse Cherri knew that her daughter needed more care and attention than what was being provided for her. Cherri quit her job to become a full-time care giver; this gave her the idea to start a company that provides care for people with disabilities and their families. Cherri resides at the same location she opened in the Thatch in October of 1997.

At CherriCare, we have a full service staff. Cherri Lolley is a certified mastectomy fitter, specializing in post mastectomy garments for women who have undergone breast surgery due to breast cancer. We also have 2 other trained fitters on staff. We work directly with three Hospice agencies providing their patients with home medical equipment needs. We have two in house billing specialists and delivery technicians who work around the clock to make sure all of our customers are taken care of.

CherriCare is recognized (recent best of Owensboro Recipient) as a local organization with a history of quality and the local professionals you have come to know and trust providing service that is second to none.

CherriCare is always looking for new and innovative ways to meet the needs of our clients. At CherriCare we are pleased to offer the most advanced technologies, products and therapies available.

As medical progress is being made, we bring it home to you.

CherriCare carries patient handling equipment, institutional and adaptive furniture and accessories, and more. If we don’t have it in stock, we can custom and special order items you need

to ensure a comfortable care at home.

We have recently made changes to what we bill to insurance and what insurances we provide to. With the recent drastic changes to health insurance plans, we have had to switch to a different model in order to continue providing the best services and products to our customers. We cash rent hospital beds, mobility items such as wheelchairs and transport chairs, and patient lifts. We will continue to bill post mastectomy items, non-invasive home ventilators, and electric breast pumps to most insurance. Call today to see what we have available for rent, purchase, and to bill.

At CherriCare, we know that every patient has, and deserves, the right to choose the company that provides their home medical equipment and supplies, and we hope you will consider our local professional staff for your healthcare equipment and service. We are locally owned and operated to better serve you, with convenient hours, and all of the products needed in your recovery. Contact us, or come in to the store, today to see our product lines and meet with a trained staff member to find out how we can best serve you!

HEALTH

Brain Supplements

Benefits and Uses

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emory loss worries many of us as we get older.

You might wonder whether you’ll become one of the 10 million baby boomers who develops Alzheimer’s disease. Or, maybe you’re simply seeking ways to fortify your memory with memory supplements and vitamins. Will these brain boosters really help your memory?

Generally speaking, brands that offer a hassle-free 90 to 365 days money back are the ones you can trust.

When You Buy Memory Supplements Make Sure It Contains These Essential Ingredients: Huperzine A, Phosphatldylserine 20%, Choline Bitartrate, and DHA Omega 3 Amino Acids • Huperzine A – Enhances general cognitive function, specifically memory, cognition and behavioral functions.

• Phosphatidylserine – Essential for brain neuron support, maintain memory function & improved neuroplasticity.

• Choline Bitartrate – Boosts levels of choline, increasing acetylcholine production to raise nerve membrane fluidity.

• DHA Omega 3 Amino Acids – to promote better blood flow for improved cognition, function & memory boosting.

The Top Brands In 2019 #1 PureNature Cognifen Over 4,355 consumers voted Cognifen as their number one choice of Brain & Memory Supplement.

We believe this brand can deliver the result you need.

Cognifen contains 100% pure natural ingredients, no cheap filler, no binders and no artificial colors. All purchases from PureNature is backed by a 365 day Risk Free 100% Money Back Guarantee. Made in the USA with all-natural, fast dissolving veggie capsule and are made in an FDA registered laboratory that is cGMP certified and 3rd Party Tested.

Cognifen contains all the essential ingredients for an effective supplement plus many more. #2 Neuro Ps Neuro Ps contains most of the essential ingredients with only Huperzine missing, however it does contain a good dosage of the other ones; just like Cognifen no synthetic ingredients, cheap filler, binders and artificial colors. Neuro Ps offers one year return.

Made in the USA with all-natural, gelatine capsule. #3 Mental Alertness It contains a good amount of the essential ingredients. Gaia Herbs is a reputable company and they deliver good quality products; with no synthetic ingredients, cheap filler, binders and artificial colors.

Gaia Herbs offers a return policy in which case you need to contact them.

■ Only by supplements backed by third-party labs and manufactured in an FDA approved facility.

Alternatives to Traditional Medicine Herbs and Health Care is a small, locally owned business located on Main Street in Tell City. We have been in the business of Health Care for 25 years.

We pride ourselves in being concerned with others health and well-being.

People are looking for alternative to traditional medicine and we offer a variety of supplements to fit those individual needs. Pharmaceutical’s come with a price tag, not only in money, but at a risk of harmful side effects. By using supplements it can assist the body in overall health.

Herbs, Vitamins, Minerals, Essential Oils, CBD-Hemp, Probiotics, Essential Fatty Acids and Digestive Enzymes are used to help the body find balance and health. The companies that we use only produce top quality supplements. These companies are Nature Sunshine, Pure Herbs Ltd, R Garden, DoTerra, Life Fortune, Barlean’s, Trace Minerals, and Hemp Direct.

These companies offer superior products that have been tested to ensure top ingredients are being used. You will never have to worry if what you are taking is really inside the bottle, be assured it is.

We also offer Iridology Consultation. This is a science of reading the Iris of the eye. Iridology began in Germany in the 1800 and can be used as an informative tool to see what the body’s tissues are experiencing. Suggestions can be given on what supplements could be beneficial in correcting the imbalances seen in the Iris.

Herbs and Health Care carries a

2019

small amount of Health food. Ezekiel Bread and Braggs Apple Cider Vinegar are some of our top sellers. We also carry raw honey sourced locally. Lilly’s Chocolates and Pur Gum are a hit with our Keto diet customers. We offer variety of gluten-free products as well as herbal teas, spices and dairy-free products.

Please feel free to come in and browse our store at 1417 Main St., Tell City, IN. Questions are always welcomed!

HEALTH

Dr. Jesica Mills

New Alternative Wellness Clinic Dr. Jesica Mills, is passionate about integrative health. “I want to help find what works best for patients’ health.” We aim to find the “root cause” of your symptoms and address those. She is the owner of Owensboro Family Pharmacy and Wellness, and is a Pharmacist and Naturopath.

Owensboro Family Pharmacy offers new services that have changed how healthcare is delivered. One service is flu/strep/UTI/RSV testing, where you receive treatment at the pharmacy without going to a doctor first. Patients trying to quit smoking come in and receive nicotine replacement, Chantix, or Wellbutrin. Patients needing an Epipen for allergies, and those travelling abroad needing medications or vaccines also can come to the pharmacy for treatment. We also offer all vaccines without having to get a prescription. If you can’t come to the pharmacy, call us and we can come to you.

Another service is the medicine tray program.

Patients with multiple medications can have a tray of their medicines delivered once a week, pre-filled in the right boxes. Patient’s and doctors are seeing the benefit. We have even received prescriptions to be enrolled in our tray program from doctors. The program is easy- bring your medicines to the pharmacy, we ensure you’re taking the right medicines at the right time, and we make sure you never run out of refills. We handle any medicine changes for you,

and you don’t have to fill your medicines at the pharmacy to use this program. We then deliver your tray weekly or every other week.

Owensboro Family Pharmacy also syncs their patient’s medicines to be due at the same time every 30 or 90 days. We call to make sure there are no changes, and then let you know when it will be ready.

If you can’t get to the pharmacy, we offer free delivery in Owensboro, and mail medications to those living elsewhere.

We are also known for their compounding. From hormones, creams, and low-dose Naltrexone, many patient’s use this service. One very popular compound they make is low-dose Naltrexone.

Owensboro Family Pharmacy is opening a new integrative medical practice in November 2019. The new practice is Owensboro Family Wellness, and will be next door to the pharmacy. “We’ll have a Nurse Practitioner working on the medical side of the clinic.

They’ll be able to see patients as a primary care provider, and we will also see clients for Natural and Alternative Health.”

Owensboro Family Wellness will accept all insurances and provide alternative remedies, local products, IV hydration, and more. IV Hydration rejuvenates the body, so if you feel like you are about to be sick, it’s a fast way to give your body some help fighting off an infection.

OWENSBORO FAMILY PHARMACY

Jesica is a Doctor of Naturopathy and a Doctor of Pharmacy, so she is qualified to educate on medical and natural products that can help with any issue.

Her goal is to educate and empower her patients to take charge of their health. The medical practice will help to balance hormones, prevent chronic illnesses, and prescribe the medications and treatments needed. We will have a retail space for innovative products, like vitamin patches that can help with sleep, weight loss, energy, and focus. Our family medical practice will be able to pull your labs and see what’s deficient and how we can best support the body. We support the gut to help with immunity and balancing mood. We look at labs for food sensitivities, vitamin deficiencies like vitamin b-12, and we genetic test to see the best medications, diet, and exercise for weight loss.

New Practice Next Door!

Owensboro Family Wellness First Integrative Family Medical Practice in Daviess County • IV Hydration • Alternative remedies • Local products (like honey) • Hormone Therapy • STREP, RSV & UTI testing • Vitamin B Shots

You can email us at owensborofamilypharmacy@gmail.com

TO BE ADDED TO OUR PATIENT LIST, EMAIL ofwellness2019@gmail.com Visit our Facebook page: Owensboro Family Wellness

■ IMMUNIZATIONS FLU, SHINGLE, PEUMONIA SHOTS ■ Adherence Packs ■ Medicine Trays ■ Sync My Meds Program- 1X per month or 90 days ■ Alternative Medicines & Wellness Consults ■ Supplements & Vitamin Patches ■ Compounding ■ Drive Thru Pharmacy ■ $4/$10 Generic Drug List

We are the CBD Headquarters

HEALTH

OWENSBORO HEALTH Healthcare Starts Here If you need medical care close to home, Owensboro Health has you covered. From family medicine for kids and parents to a rotation of specialists who can handle specific issues, most of your health care needs can be taken care of right in Tell City without sacrificing quality and without driving far from home.

Here’s how it works. From 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday to Friday, the Owensboro Health Family Medicine and Walk-in Clinic is open for general medical needs in Lincoln Park Plaza at 27 E. Highway 66 in Tell City. You can walk in for urgent care needs including common illnesses, eye and skin conditions, and minor injuries and procedures.

You can also call 812-395-2011 to schedule an appointment for family medical needs. Family medicine typically includes primary care for patients of all ages, from pediatrics to geriatrics. The clinic is staffed by Andrea Gay, APRN. At Owensboro Health’s Riverfront Medical Clinic at 421 7th Street in Tell City, you can also see a rotation of general surgery specialists along with orthopedic

and sports medicine specialists. The clinic is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday to Friday by appointment.

Call 877-787-4366 to schedule an appointment with a surgical specialist for your general surgery needs, and call 270-417-7940 to schedule an appointment with an orthopedic specialist for help with your bones, joints and muscles.The providers at Riverfront Medical Clinic serve patients on rotating days. You may see any of the following doctors depending on which day you visit the clinic: General Surgery: John Falcone, MD, Chris Glaser, MD, Roger Humphrey, MD, Alan Mullins, MD, Jessica Raque, MD.Orthopedics: Mark McGinnis, MD, Lauren Mahoney, PA-C. Both Owensboro Health locations in Tell City are accepting new patients.

For quality care you can count on close to home, call or stop in today! For more information, visit www.owensborohealth.org/tellcity.

Top 3 Vaccines for Seniors Fall is in full swing and that means cooler weather! While you may be celebrating after a hot summer, it’s important to remember that with cooler weather comes a greater risk of sickness.

It’s no secret that as we age, our immune systems are weakened, which contributes to an increase in the risk for infectious diseases. The Vaccine Clinic, inside Nation’s Medicines Hwy 54, offers a number of vaccines any member of your family could need! Our pharmacists are trained in vaccine administration and documentation; you’re in good hands with our staff! Here is a list of three vaccines we recommend seniors discuss with their doctors.

Flu Vaccine Influenza leads to more than 36,000 deaths and 200,000 hospitalizations each year. More than 90% of flu-related deaths reported annually occur in patients 65 and older. The CDC recommends that adults greater than fifty years of age receive one dose of the flu vaccine annually. To address the increased risks faced by the aging population, a high-dose version of the flu vaccine is available- talk to your doctor to see if this option is recommended for you. The Vaccine Clinic inside Nation’s has both regular and high dose flu vaccines available. Walk-ins are welcome! (Limited quantities available).

Shingles Vaccine Shingles is a painful skin rash caused by the same virus responsible for chickenpox. There are two shingles vaccines available for healthy older adults. The CDC recommends that healthy adults over age 50 get a two-dose version of the vaccine called Shingrix. The shots are generally given several months apart, and is about 90% effective after you’ve had both shots. The single dose vaccine may still be used for healthy people over age 60. If you’ve had the single dose version of the vaccine, have a discussion with your doctor to see if they recommend you get the two-dose version.

Pneumococcal Vaccine Pneumococcal disease causes severe infections throughout the bloodstream and/or key organs and kills 18,000 adults of age 65+ each year. A weakening immune system means that older adults are at greater risk, and can face more severe side effects, especially those who are managing chronic diseases. While you may not have heard of pneumococcal disease, you have probably heard of the conditions that result from

the disease, such as pneumonia and meningitis. The recommended vaccine regimen involves two vaccines: the PCV13 first, followed by a dose of PPSV23, at least 1 year later. It is predicted that the CDC will have updated guidelines for the pnuemococcal vaccine this fall.

Getting these vaccines is an important part of healthy aging. They also help ensure the health of your friends and family. Get in touch with your doctor today to find out if these vaccines are right for your health. The Vaccine Clinic at Nation’s Medicines is here to keep you healthy and that starts with getting vaccinated. To learn more about these vaccines, come by the Vaccine Clinic inside Nation’s Medicines or give us a call

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HEALTH

Perry County Memorial Hospital Providing Quality Healthcare - Exemplary Service Perry County Memorial Hospital has been serving Perry County Mahoney and Rebecca Hubert. and surrounding communities for over 68 years. PCMH is proud to PCMH moved to its new facility in May of 2015 in order to PCMH offers four serve our community with the highest levels of quality health care improve patient flow, access to healthcare and to better expand and are continuing to expand services that are provided to meet the off-campus clinics: upon the services offered. In 2018, PMCH began a hospitalist needs of the community. PCMH offers all of the care and specialprogram designed to ensure that patients have availability to a • Leopold ists you need, close to home. physician 24 hours a day and allowed the community primary Established in 1950, PCMH is a nonprofit, county-owned critical • Tell City care physicians to have more time in their practices. access hospital. PCMH is a 25 bed acute care facility with a PCMH is committed to providing quality healthcare and • Troy and surgery center, birthing center, full outpatient services and Emerexemplary customer service in the most caring, compassionate, • Spencer County gency department. PCMH is a member of the American Hospital and effective manner. We are dedicated to improving the health Association, Indiana Hospital Association and National Rural Health and quality of life for the communities we serve while reducing Association and is licensed by the state of Indiana and accredited by the Healththe burden of illness, injury, and disability. care Facilities Accreditation Program.

PCMH’s mission is supported by the hospital Foundation and their continuous One of Perry County’s largest employers, Perry County Memorial Hospital support to raise funds. Since 1992, PCMH foundation has donated over 1 million employs about 315 individuals. Collectively, these employees possess hundreds dollars to the hospital that has funded the modernization of the Tell City Clinic, of years of specialized training and experience. Continuous training ensures provide a walking trail surrounding the new facility and invest in diagnostic employees keep current with standards of practice, medical treatments, and imaging equipment that aids with early detection of disease. technology, as well as enhances communication and customer service skills.

The Auxiliary is also an important component in supporting PCMH in their PCMH employees value the opportunity to care for their family, friends and mission. The PCMH Auxiliary contributed over 13,500 volunteer hours last year neighbors. as well as funds that launch a new mobile pregnancy app, launching soon.

Hospital President and CEO Brian Herwig is a fellow of the American College PCMH has entered into a management services agreement with St. Vincent that will of Healthcare Executives. Perry County Memorial Hospital’s senior leadership enable further growth and expansion of services. team consists also includes Michelle Howard as the Vice President of Nursing We are proud to have served the community for over 68 years and look Services and Jim Childers as Chief Financial Officer. forward to continued growth and expansion in order to meet the needs of the The board of trustees, appointed by the Perry County Commissioners, community for the future. For more information about PCMH, visit includes John Land, Timothy Harding, Grant Taylor, Dr. Joseph LeClere, Rita pchospital.org.

PCMH has an expansive physician network that incorporates employed providers, as well as private practice and visiting specialists, giving patients access to the primary care and specialty care services they need without having to travel out of their community.

Full Range of Services: • Cancer Treatment & Chemotherapy • Cardiopulmonary Services • Cardiology • Ear, Nose & Throat Services • Emergency Services • Emergency Transport • General Surgery • Home Health Services • Fusion Services • Laboratory Services • Medical Imaging • Nephrology-Coming Soon • Obstetrics & Gynecology • Orthopaedics • Pain Management Center • Pediatric Services and Immunizations • Rehabilitation Services: Physical, Occupational, Speech Therapy • Sleep Lab • Swing Bed Program: Post-Acute Short-term Rehabilitation • Tele Psychiatry • Tele-Neurology-Coming Soon • Urology Services • Wound Care Center

HEALTH

Allen & Allen Family Dentistry Where you’re treated like family Located at 140 Main Cross St. in Hawesville, KY, Allen & Allen Family Dentistry has been serving the dental needs of the local community with quality care and compassion for 36 years.

The family practice prides itself on providing cutting-edge dental care in a calm, clean atmosphere. The practice participates in most dental insurance plans and will schedule dental emergencies within one working day.

“We treat the whole patient, not just their teeth. We do a complete evaluation of their medical status including medical history, medication evaluation, physician consultation and blood pressure monitoring at no extra charge to the patient,” Drs. Walt and Patti Allen say. “We are proud to be apart of this community and its an honor to provide our services.”

Allen & Allen Family Dentistry also welcomes new patients and looks forward to the future of family dentistry.

Drs. Walt and Patti always strive to improve the services they offer and go beyond their licensure requirements to take quality continuing education classes in an effort to provide the best services possible to their patients.

Taking care of your teeth and gums is important in many ways and good oral care can help maintain good overall health of our bodies. So remember to brush your teeth at least twice a day.

• Floss Daily.

• Replace your toothbrush ever y three months - or sooner if the bristles become bent.

• Schedule regular dental checkups and cleanings every six months.

Allen & Allen Family Dental Practice is open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays and Tuesdays, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesdays and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Fridays. The office is closed from noon until 1 p.m. everyday for lunch. To schedule an appointment, please call (270) 927-6045.

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HEALTH

Implants Provide Relief from Uncomfortable Dentures

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any people who have missing teeth often report they have uncomfortable partial or full dentures. In addition, the wearers routinely have pain and difficulty chewing. These prosthetic teeth have less than ideal support as they rest directly on the gums.

According to Dr. Elizabeth Wilson at the Center for Cosmetic and General Dentistry (CCGD), “One of the most exciting advancements in dentistry is the ability to attach a full or partial denture to dental implants. This increases stability and comfort which ultimately results in being able to chew better. In addition, the teeth are beautiful! My patients love being able to smile and eat foods they enjoy.”

Implants are artificial roots of teeth that are placed into the jawbone and fuse in place much like an artificial joint. Most patients find that the discomfort

from the procedure is minimal. After healing, prosthetic teeth can then be attached to the implants.

Depending on the number of artificial roots that are implanted, the dentures can either be fixed or fixedremovable.

Dr. David Woodward, another dentist at CCGD, says “When four or more implants are placed in a jaw it enables us to construct a fixed denture that is held in place by small screws which thread into the implants.

This type is not removed and is most like having natural teeth again. The wearer cleans it with a toothbrush and floss similar to the technique used before they lost their teeth.”

Dr. Woodward explained further, “If less than four implants are utilized, a fixed-removable prosthesis is best. It has special snap-like attachments that secure

it to the implants which greatly increase the stability and comfort of the denture. This type fits very snuggly and can be removed by the wearer for cleaning”.

Dr. David Wilson has been practicing at CCGD for 33 years and has found that utilizing advanced technology results in the highest quality implant supported dentures. He states that at the Center for Cosmetic and General Dentistry, “We utilize the latest 3D Cat-Scan radiography coupled with CADCAM designing software to properly diagnose the problem and design the best solutions for our implant patients. We can design implant placement with superior accuracy to insure the most stable, comfortable and functional dentures available.”

Excellence in dental care is a passion at the Center for Cosmetic and General Dentistry. Visit www.stylishsmiles.com or call 270-684-3610 to schedule a consultation to see how they can help you enjoy eating and smiling again.

David Wilson, DMD • Elizabeth Wilson, DDS • David Woodward,DDS

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John and Marianne Smith Edge Living an Active Lifestyle

By Dave Taylor John and Marianne Smith Edge are seniors, but only on paper.

“Forever young is fine,” Marianne joked as the couple sat in the sun room of their Ford Avenue home in Owensboro earlier this month.

Her husband John has acquired the wisdom of someone who’s lived a long life, and who’s been married for 37 years. “I just turned 65 and Marianne is a little younger,” he said, offering a diplomatic answer to a dangerous question.

John is a retired banker, having retired in 2015 as regional president of First Security Bank, which later was sold to German American Bank.

Marianne is still working, running her own consulting business, The AgriNutrition Edge, where she works with food and ag related companies on strategy, communications and consumer insights, and produces a blog on the same topics at www.agrinutritionedge.com.

Both of them stay very active.

“I started at 5:30 this morning,” said Marianne, who said she typically wakes up early to exercise at nearby Pure Barre.

“It’s kind of a cross between ballet, aerobics and… it’s a lot of weight resistance stuff,” John said. “It’s pretty heavy duty. Probably averages three days a week, four probably and it’s her and a bunch of 20-somethings. A few 30-somethings.”

“And there’s 40 and there’s folks my age,” she said. “It’s great motivation when sometimes the majority are younger.”

John walks as often as he can but both are avid skiers, to the point that they even went in halves with John’s sister and her husband on a cabin in Colorado where they can hit the slopes daily in the winter and hike during the summer. “This year we spent all of July there and then about 10 days in August,” he said. “And then we’ll spend about half of ski season there.”

On their hikes they’ve climbed 13 different 14,000foot peaks in Colorado.“There’s 54 14ers in Colorado so my goal was to try to make it to half of them, because we kind of started late,” Marianne said.

“We’ll hopefully maybe get to 20 anyway.”

On the most recent one, Mt. Massive, they camped at the base and started out early for the long haul. “We started at 4:30 in the morning… it took us what, 10 hours?” she said. “More like 11,” said John.

Despite their active lifestyles, both of them got into sports later in life, although John did play sports in high school. “We didn’t really start doing like spin classes in the mornings and really working out until probably mid-40s,” he said.

Marianne grew up on a dairy farm and didn’t have time for sports when she was younger, but she and John made time for them after they got married. “As one of my friends said we became adult onset jocks,” she said. “I was always active but actually probably ran my first half marathon when I was 47.”

They stay active in the community too, with John volunteering with Habitat for Humanity and serving

as the chair of trustees at Settle Memorial Methodist Church, and Marianne helping launch the Owensboro chapter of Impact 100, a women’s charity.

“A good way to describe it it’s a women’s giving circle,” she said. “The concept originally was $1,000, if 100 women gave, to see what an impact we could have. And first year we had like 150 and thereafter we’ve had over 200 every year.” They pool the money and give $100,000 “transformational” grants to nonprofits to enable them to make big improvements.

The couple have remained mostly healthy, save for a current back injury for John and a prostate cancer battle in 2011, and they attribute it to eating healthy, which is made easier by Marianne, a registered dietitian who has even served as the president of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.

“Eighty percent of all chronic diseases, i.e. diabetes, heart issues, hypertension, a lot of times are associated with lifestyle changes that you could correct,” she said. “I think the key is it is about balance. If any diet tells you to eliminate a particular group, it might work, but there is a reason why we talk about dairy, lean proteins, fruits and vegetables and fiber,” said Marianne.

She urges everyone, seniors included, to follow the tried and true advice of eating from every food group, instead of eliminating things like dairy and meat because they contain nutrients growing or aging bodies need.

“In the scheme of things variety in moderation may sound boring but it still really is the core of good guidance in that regard,” she said.

Just as important as good eating habits is getting in the habit of moving around, even if it’s just choosing to walk to a nearby destination instead of hopping in the car.

“We walk downtown to dinner occasionally from here,” John said. “That’s about a mile and a half.”

Walking in this area is uncommon enough that passersby might not understand.

“I’ve had people even stop to try to pick me up,” said Marianne. “Because if you’re not dressed as if you’re working out… and I’m trucking down the street they think something’s happened to my car or something.”

Besides getting out in the neighborhood, the couple travels a lot, which they say helps keep them young. They hiked through Spain a couple of years ago and the southern part of France last November, and they’re going back to Tuscany in April.

“I enjoy meeting the people there,” he said. “That’s really the thing with me. I come back from a trip and oh, so we saw Eiffel Tower or Pisa, or whatever there… What I remember is my interactions with the different individuals and how that just gives you a better feeling for people wherever you visit. We’re all the same.”

Travel has even deeper meaning for Marianne.

“My dad’s passed, but he never traveled, but he always wanted to know what’s going on,” she said.

“So I always still do look for agriculture things because I say it’s through my father’s eyes.”

Travel is expensive, but the couple says it doesn’t have to be out of the country to be beneficial.

“I think at any age it’s important,” she said, “just the engagement of other individuals, whether it’s traveling down the street or across the river, being able to interact with folks maybe outside your total comfort zone.”

If staying young requires curiosity or goal setting, the couple might live forever.

“I’ve got a Brescia student ID now,” said John. “I’m taking a class at Brescia. I’m doing a pottery class.

Most colleges after 65 allow you to audit classes for free.”

He’s thinking of taking another class on business ethics next year, and he has a list of music festivals he plans to attend with his old college friends.

Marianne is going to Japan on September 30 with a Leadership Kentucky group, but she better not stay gone long because the slopes are calling their name.

“I plan to be on skis by the first of December because I bought new skis last year,” she said. “And I’ve got at least two 14ers that I have to climb next summer.”

While not everyone can travel internationally, vacation in their own cabin or have a dietitian cooking their meals, the couple says that staying healthy is a mindset and staying active is something to practice before it’s too late.

“I’m blessed that I’ve been physically active and know that things can happen that can change that sometimes, so take advantage of it,” she said.

“Appreciate the time you have.” dave.hancockclarion@gmail.com

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A CHECK LIST IMMEDIATELY ❑ Get a legal pronouncement of death. If no doctor is present, you’ll need to contact someone to do this: ❑ If the person dies at home under hospice care, call the hospice nurse, who can declare the death and help facilitate the transport of the body. ❑ If the person dies at home without hospice care, call 911, and have in hand a do-not-resuscitate document if it exists. Without one, paramedics will generally start emergency procedures and, except where permitted to pronounce death, take the person to an emergency room for a doctor to make the declaration. ❑. Arrange for transportation of the body. If no autopsy is needed, the body can be picked up by a mortuary (by law, a mortuary must provide price info over the phone) or crematorium. ❑ Notify the person’s doctor or the county coroner. ❑ Notify close family and friends. (Ask some to contact others.) ❑ Handle care of dependents and pets. ❑ Call the person’s employer, if he or she was working. Request info about benefits and any pay due. Ask whether there was a life-insurance policy through the company.

WITHIN A FEW DAYS AFTER DEATH ❑ Arrange for funeral and burial or cremation. Search the person’s documents to find out whether there was a prepaid burial plan. Ask a friend or family member to go with you to the mortuary. Prepare an obituary. ❑ If the person was in the military or belonged to a fraternal or religious group, contact that organization. It may have burial benefits or conduct funeral services. ❑ Ask a friend or relative to keep an eye on the person’s home, answer the phone, collect mail, throw food out, and water plants.

UP TO 10 DAYS AFTER DEATH ❑ Obtain death certificates (usually from the funeral home). Get multiple copies; you’ll need them for financial institutions, government agencies, and insurers. ❑ Take the will to the appropriate county or city office to have it accepted for probate.

❑ If necessary, the estate’s executor should open a bank account for the deceased’s estate. ❑ Contact: A trust and estates attorney, to learn how to transfer assets and assist with probate issues. ❑ Police, to have them periodically check the deceased’s house if vacant. ❑ Accountant or tax preparer, to find out whether an estate-tax return or final income-tax return should be filed. ❑ The person’s investment adviser, for information on holdings. Bank, to find accounts and safe deposit box. ❑ Life insurance agent, to get claim forms. ❑ Social Security (800-772-1213; socialsecurity.gov) and other agencies from which the deceased received benefits, such as Veterans Affairs (800-827-1000; va.gov), to stop payments and ask about applicable survivor benefits. ❑ Agency providing pension services, to stop monthly check and get claim forms. ❑ Utility companies; change or stop service, postal service, stop or forward mail.

KNOW THE PERSON’S WISHES For an elderly friend or relative: ❑ Know the location of the will, birth certificate, marriage and divorce certificates, Social Security information, life-insurance policies, financial documents, and keys to safe deposit box or home safe. ❑ Ask the person’s wishes about funeral arrangements, organ donation, and burial or cremation. ❑ Have the person complete an advance directive, including a living will, which specifies wanted and unwanted procedures. The person should also appoint a health-care proxy to make medical decisions if he or she becomes incapacitated. ❑ Have a do-not-resuscitate order drawn up if the person desires. That tells health-care professionals not to perform CPR if the person’s heart or breathing stops and restarting would not result in a meaningful life. ❑ Make sure the person gives copies of the documents to his or her doctor and a few family members or friends. Take the documents to the hospital if the person is admitted.

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ESTATE PLANNING

Estate Planning: What Will You Leave Behind? establish how your property is divided. This statute By: Daniel T. Boling is rigid in determining who would receive your Madden & Madden, Attorneys at Law property and could lead to your wishes not being Although estate planning can be difficult and fulfilled. For example, you may not be able to leave overwhelming to think about, it is necessary to what you want to your grandchildren, great grandensure your wishes are known and your loved ones children, charities, churches, or friends have peace of mind. We all want to if you do not define these wishes in leave our loved ones with fond your will. memories of time spent together, “Planning is bringing the • If you become unable to make future into the present so but failing to plan can unfortunately you can do something decisions and do not preemptively leave them with heavy decisions, about it now.” designate someone to make financial unnecessary legal battles, and can and healthcare decisions on your Alan Lakein make an already difficult process behalf, then your family would have to that much more difficult. Ultimately, go through a lengthy court process these burdens can damage families that may require a jury trial to determine your as loved ones try to effectuate what they think you competency. This can all be avoided by naming a would want.

It’s never too early to plan for the future, but there Power of Attorney or Health Care Surrogate ahead of time. is a time when it becomes too late. Failure to make • If you become unable to direct your medical arrangements can lead to unforeseen consequences treatment at the end of life, you need a living will/ and take the power to make decisions out of your advance directive to inform medical professionals of hands. Here are a few examples to consider: your wishes related to life prolonging treatment and • In the event you pass away and do not have a artificially provided food, water, nourishment or last will and testament then a Kentucky statute will

fluids. Failure to have a living will/advance directive could leave your loved ones with difficult decisions at a vulnerable time. For example, your loved ones may be forced to make a decision to remove or continue life support.

• If you or your spouse need nursing home care, without the proper planning the assets that took a lifetime to build could be in jeopardy. The failure to plan could force you and your family to face a choice between seeking the healthcare you or your spouse need or maintaining your assets. On average, nursing home care in Kentucky costs approximately $6,000 per month. Due to the high costs of this care, many rely on Medicaid to pay for these services.

However, you must qualify for Medicaid from a financial standpoint. Medicaid has very low asset and income requirements that without proper planning may be difficult to meet. An attorney can help you develop a plan to qualify for Medicaid while protecting your assets. In terms of Medicaid planning, the sooner a plan is developed the more effective it is likely to be.

While estate planning may seem daunting, an attorney can help you navigate the process and develop an individualized plan to protect your assets, document your wishes, and remove any ambiguity for your family. Overall, a properly developed estate plan will allow you to take control of your future and ease the burden for your loved ones.

ESTATE ESTATEPLANNING PLANNING

Who Can You Trust to Reduce Stress of Estate Planning When it’s time to do your estate planning – and it’s actually never too soon to begin – you may find the process, at first, to be somewhat bewildering. You’ll have many questions: What sort of arrangements should I make? Who should get what? And when?

How can you address these and other issues?

You’ll need to get some help. In drawing up your estate plan, you will need to work with an attorney. And for guidance on the investments that can help fund your estate planning arrangements, such as a living trust, you can draw on the help of a financial advisor. You also may want to connect with a trust company, which can help facilitate your estate plans and coordinate the activities of your legal and financial professionals.

Of course, you might think that only the very wealthy need a trust company. But that’s not really the case – people of many income levels have long used these companies. As long as you have a reasonable amount of financial assets, you likely can benefit from the various services provided by a trust organization.

And these services can range from administration of a variety of trusts (such as living trusts and charitable trusts) to asset-management services (bill-paying, check-writing, etc.) to safekeeping services (such as providing secure vaults for jewelry and collectibles).

In short, using a trust company can make things a lot easier when it’s time to plan and execute your estate. A trust company can help you in the following ways: *Avoiding family squabbles – It’s unfortunate, but true: Dividing the assets of an estate can cause ill will and turmoil among family members. But a trust company can act as a neutral third party, thus minimizing any feelings of unfairness. *Providing greater control – When you establish an arrangement such as a living trust, administered by the trust company, you can give yourself great control over how you want your assets distributed. For example, you can specify that a certain child receive portions of your estate spaced out over several years – a move that may appeal to you if you think this child might not be ready to handle large sums all at once. *Saving time and effort – As mentioned above, when you work with a trust company, you can let it do all the “legwork” of coordinating your plans with your financial professional, tax advisor and attorney. And these professionals are used to dealing with trust companies. *Gaining Protection – Trust companies assume fiduciary responsibility for your financial well-being – which means that your best interests will always be

considered in each service and transaction performed.

You can choose from among a variety of trust companies, large and small. Before choosing one, you may want to check out the services and fees of a few different firms. In any case, as you move toward that time of your life when estate planning becomes more essential, talk to your attorney, tax advisor and financial professional about whether using the services of a trust company might be right for you.

This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor.

Edward Jones, its employees and financial advisors are not estate planners and cannot provide tax or legal advice. You should consult your estate-planning attorney or qualified tax advisor regarding your situation.

What is CASA? Volunteer Your Time to Change a Child’s Life

All children deserve a safe, happy and loving childhood. No one longs for a safe and loving family more than a child caught up in the court system through no fault of their own. When parents make dangerous life choices, children suffer. Kentucky has the highest number of child abuse and neglect cases in the USA. With reports of increasing substance abuse and mental illness creating broken relationships, more and more innocent children enter the system. As a Court-Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) volunteer, you are empowered by the courts to help make this a reality. You will bring positive changes to the lives of these vulnerable children, and affect the future of generations to come. And in doing so, you will enrich your life as well.

We all desire to make the world a better place.

Studies prove that having one caring adult can do so much to show a child that they matter, and that their current circumstance does not define their future!

Who can be a Volunteer Advocate?

You do not have to be a lawyer or a social worker to be a volunteer. We welcome people from all walks of life. We are simply looking for people who care about children and have common sense. As a volunteer, you will be thoroughly trained and well supported by professional staff to help you through each case.

You must pass a background check, participate in a 30-hour pre-service training course and agree to stay with a case until it is closed (a year and a half on average).

Learn more about the signs of child abuse and neglect and how YOU can make a powerful difference by visiting the CASA of Ohio Valley website: www.CASAov.org

ESTATE PLANNING

Maximize your retirement accounts’ benefits Reviewing and choosing your beneficiaries is crucial to your estate plan

D

id you know many of your assets may pass to your heirs outside of your Last Will & Testament?

That’s right. Even though you may have recently revised your Will it is important to review your retirement accounts, life insurance policies and transfer on death accounts.

Many account types pass through the account contract and are not subject to the provisions you have within your Will. Retirement accounts such as a TradiJERRY tional IRA, Roth IRA, Rollover IRA, 401K, 403b, GOETZ Annuity or others pass at RETIREMENT & FINANCIAL STRATEGIES your death to the beneficiaries you have named on the contract. Life Insurance passes by the contract as well. Some individuals even

rise to special planning needs. Accounts set up transfer of death language on that pass by contract may help you in accounts they have held outside of their equalizing or proportioning your estate to retirement accounts.

When you have a change in your percurrent spouses, children, step children, sonal situation it is important to review any etc. Having special needs children may also give reason for special planning. accounts and insurance policies in which Retirement accounts have beneficiaries are named different rules of distribution in the contract to be Retirement accounts depending upon whom you have sure your desired have different rules transition to your heirs named as beneficiary. If you find it is spelled out according important that your heirs can of distribution to your wishes. continue to take advantage of tax depending upon Changes such as favorably over their lifetime and the whom you have next generation’s lifetime, make marriage, divorce, a new named as beneficiary sure to talk with your financial child, a new grandchild, advisor. Your advisor will help you death of a family memunderstand the options that your beneficiaber, etc. may create the need for you to ries will be faced with after your death. update your beneficiaries. Failure to do so Financial Advisors do not practice law or could result in some of your estate passing to someone other than whom you desire. draw up legal documents, therefore, best Many times, second marriages that practice is to allow coordination between your financial advisor and your attorney. involve children from prior marriages give

Building Your Retirement Foundation Jerry Goetz CFP®, CFS ®, CRPC® www.retirementandfinancial.com View our website!

Retirement & Financial Strategies 3402 Frederica St. Owensboro, KY 42301 270-215-2600 Jerry Goetz is a registered representative with and securities offered through LPL Financial, member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advice offered through Private Advisor Group, a registered investment advisor.

Private Advisor Group and Retirement & Financial Strategies are separate entities from LPL Financial.

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ESTATE PLANNING

“Why an Elder Law Attorney is the Best Choice for Medicaid Planning” Be the lookout for unscropulous organizations during your search for help BY: KURTIS M. SUNSET

WESTERN KENTUCKY ELDER LAW, PLC

Many seniors and their families have initial fears of hiring an attorney for medicaid planning due to the potential cost or the negative stigma of litigation.

With these fears in mind, some seniors might try to plan alone, or rely on the advice of the nursing home, which often leads to an unfortunate situation of dwindling down assets until there is nothing left to preserve.

Some seniors may try to utilize an industry of non-lawyers called “elder counselors” or “certified senior advisors” to assist with the medicaid application process. While the appeal to use such organizations might be a slightly cheaper cost, the truth is these non-lawyer organizations often cost more in the long run due to the cost of unnecessary products, creation of tax liabilities, and issues of improper planning that cause costly litigation.

Some states have banned such medicaid planning practices by non-lawyer organizations due to the

lawyer include client confidentiality, no conflict of resulting harm poor advice can have on seniors and interest, and malpractice insurance. During the their families. Florida, Ohio, New Jersey, and process of medicaid planning, seniors must reveal a Tennessee have already issued regulations stating that many areas of medicaid planning by non-lawyers list of their monetary assets, real estate, and identifying information. The courts have long protected is the unlicensed practice of law. Florida has gone lawyer-client confidentiality, but that same amount of even further ruling that it can also be the unlicensed confidentiality is not present when practice of law for a lawyer to draft dealing with information revealed to a living trusts and other legal docuAdditional perks of non-lawyer. Furthermore, an attorney ments for such non-lawyer hiring an attorney over only has a duty of loyalty to the client. organization’s clients. The Kentucky a non-lawyer include Bar Association is currently reviewclient confidentiality, no Non-lawyers may also have to consider the best interest of the nursing home. ing similar complaints. conflict of interest and Many times the interest of the nursing Hiring an Elder Law Attorney is malpractice insurance. home in keeping a resident on private the best option when pay is not in line with the client’s best considering cost interest. Finally, in a worse case scenario, a lawyer effectiveness and the ability to legally unlike non-lawyers carry malpractice insurance that preserve assets. Generally, at a cost of will help remedy a mistake. less than two months of private pay at Many Elder Law Attorneys give a free consultaa nursing home, an Elder Law Attortion. Seniors should take advantage of this consultaney will help prepare the legal docution to fully understand the necessity of hiring an ments to preserve most, if not all, of a attorney over trying to take on medicaid planning person’s hard earned assets. Elder alone or with the help of a non-lawyer. After becomLaw Attorney’s are able to directly ing fully informed, seniors will be happy with their draft the necessary legal documents choice to use an actual attorney for this process. The such as qualified income trusts, marketing gimmicks of non-lawyers in the medicaid personal service contracts, wills, and power of attorney documents. Many of planning process is simply not worth the risk.

Mr. Sunset, a graduate of Emory University School of these documents are time sensitive Law, is an Associate Attorney at Western Kentucky Elder and should not be outsourced due to Law, PLC. He formerly served on the Board of Trustees the unique needs of each client.

Additional perks of hiring an attorney over a non-

Are You Privately Paying For Nursing Home Care?

If So, You Need a Medicaid Plan!

Consider a Medicare plan if you are privately paying for nursing home care BY: DARON L. BRAWRER

For married persons, there are many important protections that can be used to make sure that the Too many nursing home residents ultimately end spouse who is not in the nursing home (“community up spending all of their assets privately paying for spouse”) does not become impoverished. nursing home care. Medicaid There are many exemptions the state planning is an area of law in which Many people falsely allows for a community believe that, once a elder law attorneys advise clients spouse. It is important to person is in a nursing have an elder law about how to legally use Medicaid laws to their own advantage to qualify home, its to late to do attorney guide you Medicaid planning. clients for Medicaid benefits. A good through this process Medicaid plan allows clients to because the nursing preserve their assets for their spouse or children homes and Department for Medicwhile qualifying themselves for Medicaid to pay for aid Services do not always tell nursing home care. families about the exemptions or Many people falsely believe that once a person is how to obtain the exemptions. For in a nursing home that it is too late to do Medicaid most married persons, an elder law planning. However, every person in a nursing home attorney can use the Medicaid laws who is privately paying for nursing home care needs to preserve most of all of the assets a Medicaid plan before all of their assets are exfor the community spouse. hausted. \For single individuals, Medicaid WESTERN KENTUCKY ELDER LAW, PLC

laws do not allow as many exemptions. However, an elder law attorney can use a divestment plan that I call the “half-a-loaf” plan. Under the “half-a-loaf” plan, an elder law attorney uses gifting laws to the client’s advantage and is able to legally protect typically half of an institutionalized person’s assets for the client’s children.

There is no need to spend all of your assets privately paying for nursing home care. If you or someone you know is privately paying for nursing home care, then they need to contact an elder law attorney for a Medicaid plan. Without a Medicaid plan, all assets could be ultimately exhausted paying for nursing home care.

Mr. Brawner is the founder of Western Kentucky Elder Law, PLC, an accredited attorney with the Department of Veterans Affairs, and a member of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys.

ESTATE PLANNING

Facing an Estate Auction? Be not afraid An Auctioneer is the executor’s second-best friend auctioneers in a good Auction Company have the expertise to create a favorable outcome in the disposal of all of the real estate and personal property in an estate.

“I never thought of having an auction The most successful estate auctions are – will it work?” for those executors who have decided that they want to be certain of the true worth of Those are comments and questions we the estate – and rather than posting “for hear on a regular basis. A good auctioneer sale” signs and waiting several months or should understand and be sensitive to the years for the sale to be completed, they thinking behind such notions. We know decide on the convenience and effectivethat auctions are a fantastic solution for ness of the one-day event during which all executors and for most sellers of real estate property would be sold at market price. and other assets – perhaps our industry JOHN The entire property sells within a matter hasn’t done the best job-evangelizing people KURTZ of minutes.

If everyone has done their job, toward auctions.

KURTZ AUCTION & REALTY both buyers and sellers will be extremely I grew up in an auction family. Every pleased with the day’s results. Yes auctions week I attended an auction. As far as I knew are emotional, yes they can be a little everyone auctioned everything. At college painful, and yes, when they are done right, they are and before I moved back to Owensboro, I saw how estate property was sold using other manners of sale. very effective for settling estates.

The key to any auction is a massive and thorough What I thought growing up as a child still rings true promotion and advertising campaign, which typically today – a good auctioneer can be the executor’s best includes direct mail, newspaper ads, electronic and friend when settling the estate. internet media as well as other avenues.

What may seem as crass and uncaring is actually Advantages of an auction to you, the executor, are a professional and logical attitude toward a daunting clear-cut and especially beneficial in the sale of real estate: task that is both personal and public. Most of the “I don’t want Grandma’s things out on the front yard.”

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• Provide excitement, encourage competition, and focus attention on a “date specific” sale.

• Provide an open, fair and non-discriminatory bidding environment, greatly enhancing opportunities for all purchasers.

• Eliminate high carrying costs.

• Reduce marketing time.

• Create urgency and energy, a climate that tends to maximize the sale proceeds to the seller.

• Mitigate defaults because substantial bid deposits are required.

• Provide immediate confirmation of sale.

• Minimize negotiations between the buyer and seller.

• Provide a market-based determination of value.

• Terms of the sale are already understood and accepted before a bid is placed or accepted.

When faced with assets to liquidate from an estate, call a qualified experienced auctioneer with a good track record, then you can relax. Contact Kurtz Action at 270-264-1204

ESTATE PLANNING

Downsizing In Your Retirement Years – What to Consider

By Marsha Westerfield When you are ready to retire, your home could be one of your most valuable assets. Therefore, selling your house at retirement age presents a different set of considerations than when we were younger. Whether you are downsizing, buying in a new community or moving in with family, it takes careful planning to get the most out of your equity.

It is critical to find a real estate agent knowledgeable about the process, the current market and the needs of clients. And most importantly someone you feel comfortable with and trust through the process. Having lived in your home for many years, it is natural to be unsure of its current value. However, lack of knowledge about current prices could cause you to accept much less for your home than it is worth. You also may wait too long to accept a fair offer under the mistaken belief that a higher one may be around the corner.

Finding out the current price for your home so you don’t lose out on a sale is extremely important. Your Real Estate Agent will provide you with a CMA, Competitive Market Analysis based on similar homes in your area that have sold.

Selling your home presents an ideal time to sort through your belongings. “Decluttering” a term used by real estate agents, means removing knick-knacks,

excess furniture and family photos from your home before putting it on the market. Decluttering makes a house look spacious and helps potential buyers picture their belongings in the house rather than yours. You may have some items you may wish to sell or giveaway to family or friends before moving. Valuables, medications, guns and other personal items should be kept out of sight.

There are several things to consider when looking for your new home.

• Location, location, location. You may wish to find a home that is close to doctors or family members.

• Single level home. Stairs are no longer our friends as we get older. Make it easier on yourself.

• Open concept and wide hallways. Something we don’t like to think about but we never know when we might need accessibility to wheelchairs.

• Step in Shower. Bathtubs can be great to soak and relax in but can also be an obstacle if you can’t get in or out of them safely. A step-in shower provides accessibility on a floor level making life much easier.

• Buy less than you can afford. Once you’ve retired your monthly income is likely not going to change.

Don’t put yourself in a situation that could put you in financial stress

My parents are going thru these years right now.

Their needs are changing every day. This is a part of life that is very tough to watch and deal with. Thankfully, they’ve raised six children that love them very much and take care of their needs as much as we possibly can.

My parents are Christians and taught us to love God, our family and our jobs. Whatever the job is, work hard, take pride, be kind and caring to all. After 31 years in the aluminum industry and now 12 years in the Real Estate Market I take great pride in my job. I am a full time Realtor and many of my clients are repeat clients.

Also, what started as a client relationship is now a friendship. Every transaction is important to me, it’s likely the biggest investment the client will make.

Make sure you have someone looking out for you or your parent’s needs.

Marsha Westerfield, Realtor Home Realty, Inc.

ESTATE PLANNING

What’s new in the Power of Attorney Act? Legislation adopted in 2018 by General Assembly strenghtens agents, establishes clearer guidelines

section and will need to be determined by the preparer. This section goes o to further state the principal’s signature is presumed to be genuine if acknowledged before a notary.

to receive and evaluate information or make or VALIDITY communicate decisions even with the use of The Act provides that powers of attorney technological assistance; or owers of Attorney (“POAs”) are vital tools that executed in Kentucky on or after July 14, 2018, are Is Missing; Detained, including incarcerated in are designed to help individuals proactively valid only if they comply with the Act. If the power a penal system, or (iii) Outside the United Sates plan for both short-term and long-term disability. of attorney was executed before July 14, 2018, it is and unable to return.

These tools allow any of us (the “Princivalid if it complied with the Kentucky requirements “Principal” is defined as an indipal”) to choose who we want to make at the time of the execution. The Act also provides vidual who grants authority to an decisions for us if we are unable to do so Before the passage that a photocopy or electronically transmitted copy agent in a power of attorney. of the Act, there and to decide the extent of the powers of the original power of attorney has the same were few statutes in we want to voluntarily authorize if and effect as the original.

DURABILITY Kentucky that when our disability arises. POA docupertained to powers KRS 386.093 required a power of ments are crucial to continued quality of ACCEPTANCE, RELIANCE AND LIABILITY of attorneys.

Many attorney to state “(t)his power of life, particularly for our elderly and The Act defines the ramifications of accepting a attorney shall not be affected by disabled Kentuckians. Because they are of the Act’s provipower of attorney by stating a person in good faith sions do not change subsequent disability or incapacity of so vital, we lawyers (and our paralegals) and without actual knowledge may presume the the current Kenthe principal, or lapse of time”. Under are frequently called upon to draft principal’s acknowledged signature is genuine. It tucky laws, but the Act, this language is no longer Powers of Attorney. further releases liability for a person there are some necessary. Now, all On July 14, 2018, our legislature in good faith and without actual important changes powers of attorneys are adopted the Uniform Power of Attorney The Act also offers knowledge if the power of attorney is for all of you to durable unless one Act of 2006, joining a long list of states protection for good void, invalid, terminated or if the keep in mind. “expressly provides that it faith acceptance as who have enacted this uniform act (the scope of the agent’s authority is is terminated by the incapacity of the well as consequences “Act”). The Act is now contained in KRS Chapter exceeded. principal.” for refusing to accept 457.

The Act mandates acceptance of the power of attorney.

The Act was created to give a durable power of acknowledged powers of attorneys by EXECUTION attorney in a modest-cost, flexible form that financial institutions and further There are new and significant encourages acceptance by third persons while imposes penalties for refusing to execution requirements. The principal’s signature providing clearer guidelines for agents. The Act accept the power of attorney. The penalties include must be signed in the presence of two disinterested a court order mandating acceptance and liability for also offers protection for good faith acceptance as witnesses. It is important to note that the term well as consequences for refusing to accept the attorney fees and costs incurred from the proceeding. “disinterested” is not set out in the terminology power of attorney.

Before the passage of the Act, there were few statutes in Kentucky that pertained to powers of attorneys. Many of the Act’s provisions do not change the current Kentucky laws, but there are some important changes for all of you to keep in mind.

BY JESSE T. MONUNTJOY, ESQ

P

SULLIVAN MOUNTJOY PSC

TERMINOLOGY The Act has replaced the “attorney-in-fact” terminology with the word “agent’. The Act also sets forth the definition of “power to attorney” to mean a writing or other record that grants authority to an agent to act in the place of the principal (whether or not the term “power of attorney” is used.)

“Incapacity” replaces the term “disability”. “Incapacity” means the inability of an individual to manage property or business affairs because the individual: Has an impairment in the ability

Medicare - Four Parts

How Do I Get Started?

You must initiate the Medicare enrollment process with Social Security. Go online, call or visit your local Social Security office to get the process started. The Social Security Administration handles most of the paperwork for joining Medicare.

If you’re drawing Social Security benefits when you turn 65, Social Security should automatically enroll you in Medicare Part A and Part B but check with your local security office if you suspect there is a problem. However, if you are not collecting Social Security, then you will need to complete your Medicare Part A and Part B enrollment through Social Security. Generally, enrolling on their website seems to be the easiest way to enroll.

If you have delayed enrolling into Medicare due to working past age 65, then you should contact Social Security on instructions with late enrollment.

Applying for Part B takes a couple extra steps.

You will need a Part B Application and a Request for Employment Information. Social Security can also help you find out if you’re eligible for extra help with the cost of Medicare costs.

Generally, the different parts of Medicare help cover specific services. Most beneficiaries choose to receive their Parts A and B benefits through Original Medicare, the traditional fee-for-service program offered directly through the federal government. It is sometimes called Traditional Medicare or Fee-forService (FFS) Medicare. Under Original Medicare, the government pays directly for the health care services you receive. You can see any doctor and hospital that takes Medicare (and most do) anywhere in the country.

In Original Medicare: ■ You go directly to the doctor or hospital when you need care. You do not need to get prior permission/authorization from Medicare or your primary care doctor.

■ You are responsible for a monthly premium for Part B. Some also pay a premium for Part A. ■ You typically pay a coinsurance for each service you receive.

■ There are limits on the amounts that doctors and hospitals can charge for your care.

If you want prescription drug coverage with Original Medicare, in most cases you will need to actively choose and join a stand-alone Medicare private drug plan (PDP).

Instead of Original Medicare, you can decide to get your Medicare benefits from a Medicare Advantage Plan, also called Part C or Medicare private health plan. Remember, you still have Medicare if you enroll in a Medicare Advantage Plan. This means that you must still pay your monthly Part B premium (and your Part A premium, if you have one). Each Medicare Advantage Plan must provide all Part A and Part B services covered by Original Medicare, but they can do so with different rules, costs, and restrictions that can affect how and when you receive care.

How you choose to get your benefits and who you get them from can affect your out-of-pocket costs and where you can get your care. For instance, in Original Medicare, you are covered to go to nearly all doctors and hospitals in the country. On the other hand, Medicare Advantage Plans typically have network restrictions, meaning that you will likely be

■ Part A helps pay for hospital and facility costs. This includes things like a shared hospital room, meals and nurse care. It can also help cover the cost of hospice, home health care and skilled nursing facilities.

■ Part B helps pay for medical costs. This is care that happens outside of a hospital. It includes things like doctor visits and outpatient procedures. It also covers some preventive care, like flu shots.

■ Parts A and B together are called Original Medicare. These two parts are run by the federal government. Find out more about what Original Medicare covers in our Help Center.

■ Part C helps pay for hospital and medical costs, plus more. Part C plans are only available through private health insurance companies. They’re called Medicare Advantage plans. They cover everything Parts A and B cover, plus more. They usually cover more of the costs you’d have to pay for out of pocket with Medicare Parts A and B. Part C plans put a limit on what you pay out of pocket in a given year, too. Some of these plans cover preventive dental, vision and hearing costs. Original Medicare doesn’t.

■ Part D helps pay for prescription drugs.

Part D plans are only available through private health insurance companies. They’re called prescription drug plans. They cover commonly used brand-name and generic drugs. Some plans cover more drugs than others.

■ Many Medicare Advantage plans include Part D prescription drug plans built right in.

more limited in your choice of doctors and hospitals.

However, Medicare Advantage Plans can also provide additional benefits that Original Medicare does not cover, such as routine vision or dental care.

As a helpful guide, review the Medicare Show Me Guide at https://www.medicareinteractive.org › get-answers › original-medicare

MEDICARE SUPPLEMENT SPECIALIST

Shane Satterfield State Farm Insurance Agent

270-685-4452

Life Insurance Specialist

Family is why we do it all.

Helping you meet your needs is part of my commitment to you.

23

ASSISTED LIVING

Elder Advantage - Protecting Your Future We Put Your Worries To Rest 1) What ser vices does EA offer?

Asset Preservation: you spend an entire lifetime accruing assets and building legacies. We can help keep those safe, so they don’t get trapped by nursing home expenses and income restraints.

Medicaid Representation: with the ever-changing laws, many applicants can be taken advantage of or misled. We maximize benefit procurement and become an advocate who stands up for your rights.

2) How can Veterans benefit from using EA? Many veterans and their spouses are unaware of the benefits they could be receiving. We help veterans maximize their VA pension benefits by working within the system to get veterans the help they deserve.

We have helped many veterans who have previously been denied; allowing them to receive their benefits.

3) How can a facility benefit by working with EA? EA screens new residents to ensure they’re eligible for benefits and helps get Medicaid cases approved quickly. EA and the facility have a common goal to give the resident the care they need.

4) What is one thing people should know about EA? This is one of the most difficult situations for you and your loved one. We take time for you to clearly understand the process and the overload of information. We want to help ease your mind, provide guidance and help alleviate some of the stress.

Nicole Hawkins President and CEO

If you have a loved one in a nursing facility or may be going into one soon, let us help you get the benefits you deserve. For a FREE consultation please call (270) 684-6757.

Helping you help yourself Elder Advantage is devoted to bringing expert representation and counsel to senior citizens.

Get the benefits you deserve We’re committed to your peace of mind and making sure your case runs as smoothly as possible.

How to Pay for Assisted Living If you have interest in assisted living, choose a long-term care insurance policy through a private insurance company. The price varies greatly depending on factors such as the person’s health, age, and

A gracious setting

amount of coverage. People with pre-existing conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease, multiple sclerosis, stroke, or Parkinson’s disease, could be denied.

However, insurers vary widely in criteria. If one company denies an applicant, another company might accept that person. Many families pay for assisted living out of their own pockets, using a combination of Social Security, pensions, Veterans benefits, home equity, annuities, reverse mortgages and savings.

■ Heritage Place Assisted Living is a center devoted to your well-being and personal style. Many amenities, including dining facilities, common areas and courtyards enhance the opportunities for socialization, while our beautifully designed apartments offer a delightful retreat.

■ We are located close to shopping, churches, and medical services...not only for your convenience, but so you can stay as active as you choose.

■ We invite you to call us for more information, and let us share with you our dedication to service that has become our hallmark.

3362

Buckland

Square,

Owensboro,

KY

42301

270-689-0930

Apartments include: ■ Microwave & refrigerator ■ Individual temperature controls ■ TV with cable ■ Handicap accessible shower ■ Assistance with bathing & dressing

■ Emergency response program ■ All meals & snacks ■ Laundry services & Housekeeping ■ Recreation opportunities ■ Scheduled transportation

ASSISTED LIVING

Affordable Retirement Lifestyle Located near the banks of the mighty Ohio River in beautiful Southern Indiana, The Villas at Oakwood Health Campus provides the comfort of a small town setting, combined with the amenities of Tell City, nearby Evansville, Hancock County and Owensboro, Kentucky.

When you no longer have to worry about the tasks of home ownership, and you live at The Villas, every day is full of opportunity. Each day is yours and the options are endless. The Villas offer a carefree lifestyle for one low monthly fee, which includes: • Attached garage with remote access • Bi-weekly housekeeping • Lawn maintenance and snow removal • Regularly scheduled activities and outings • Trash pickup • Building Maintenance • Exterior window washing • Individual heating and air conditioning units • Convenient ground-level construction and one-story design • Well-lit personal and visitor parking areas • On-site beauty/barber salon • Registered dietician counseling • Medicare/insurance counseling • Use of all ground and common areas on campus • Priority statue for assisted living and health center • Private mailboxes • Library • Dining room • Full-time director • Clubhouse and Putting Green • Meals in main dining room and • Guest meals In our Independent Living Villas you can fill your days with things you love to do. For example: take a walk around our beautifully manicured grounds, plant flowers, chat with neighbors, or relax with an iced tea on your porch. Host friends for an intimate dinner, or head to our campus for a restaurant style dining experience. You can also explore the community on one of our exciting excursions. The choices are endless.

Residents enjoy picturesque Abe Lincoln Memorial Park, or they might catch an Evansville Otters baseball game, or explore the many other

activities surrounding communities have to offer. Some of the weekly outings include; Wal-Mart shopping, Ice Cream trips, bus cruises in and around the county, plus also scenic cruises in Kentucky, Christmas Tree light tours, Santa Claus Land and there are once a month community events you can attend. Last but not least, once a year there is an overnight retreat provided for those who want to participate. These overnight trips are in different locations each year; where a group will spend the night at a hotel in another city and enjoy fun festivities (at no additional expense).

In our Assisted Living, residents enjoy beautifully designed private apartments that you can decorate to reflect your personal style and tastes, fine dining, individualized services and an array of activities tailored to your interests and abilities.

Should your care needs change, individuals who live in the residence, also have access to around-the-clock skilled nursing care and comprehensive rehabilitation services in our Health Center. Also for those who stay on campus, our Life Enrichment Team ensures there are a variety of fun and exciting ways for residents to pursue hobbies, and stay actively engaged every day.

Caring for a Loved One At Home For individuals caring for a loved one at home, trying to identify the symptoms of Alzheimer’s, Dementia or other forms of memory challenges, it can be difficult. Knowing how to provide the proper care can be even harder. Oakwood Health offers respite care and adult day services at the Tell city campus to give daily caregivers a break and provide some tips for coping. These services are designed to provide a safe and secure environment for short-term stays of a few hours or an entire day. Additionally, we offer adult night services, for caregivers who need assistance or a break during the evening hours.

After you consider our services, the luxurious living and hometown care, also consider the lasting friendships, and peace of mind you’ll have at Oakwood Health Campus. For a complimentary tour and consultation, contact, Polly Story, Manager of Villas and Community Service Representative, at Oakwood Health Campus. Call (812) 547-2333 or visit the website at www.oakwoodhs.com —By Linda Dillon

Why Choose Assisted Living?

• Safe Living Environment • Fitness and Physical Activity • Bathing, Dressing, Eating • Housekeeping

• Independence • Social Activity • Supervised Nutrition • Transporation

ASSISTED LIVING

One Park Place - A Vibrant Life

Misty Tindall, Marketing Director of One Park Place, had already alerted me about the funloving personalities of Millie and Clara, two residents at Although Millie was in good health, knowing the One Park Place. “They are so loved here,” Misty said. conveniences of having all her meals prepared, laundry They are always out chatting and helping someone if done, apartment cleaned, plus the excitement of meeting needed. They both bring a lot of life to One Park Place. new friends, this seemed the logical thing to do. When We are blessed to have these ladies.”

Millie learned she already had several friends living at Outgoing and happy were “One Park Place” (an my first thoughts when I met upscale Assisted Living Mildred Faye Miller and Clara Facility off Frederica Street Brumley Kihl. Mildred, in Owensboro) she toured the nicknamed “Millie” is so busy beautiful facility and secured a and active every day; one can two-bedroom suite with open hardly get on her calendar. floor plan and lots of She’s that kind of person with a light. Having a two-bedroom twinkle in her eyes that will suite was part of her decisionmake you want to strike up a making, as Millie didn’t want ot conversation. let go of all her furniture. “I Millie, born and raised in knew when I had company in Daviess County went to Daviess from Florida or other places, I County High School. “Before I needed another bedroom, and graduated, my teacher, Miss having a lot of my furniture I say, READY! Where we going!”

French, sent me to the really makes me feel at Clara is also very active at the age of ninety-three. She telephone company, Southern home,”Millie said. assists at The HELP Office in Owensboro (a place where you Bell (now Bell South). She Millie grew up on a farm can donate anything that someone else might need; clothes, knew I wanted to work and my near Panther Creek Park, shoes, etc). Clara said, “Giving something to someone else is teacher’s friend was the chief where Clara Marie Brumley very rewarding.” Kay Meisenhelder, another HELP Office operator,” said Millie. The chief Khil had also grown up. “We volunteer,lives at One Park Place. On Friday’s she and Clara operator told her she always rode the same bus to school, like going shopping and to the beauty shop. They also walk hired the girls Miss French sent but I didn’t really know Clara the gounds daily on the trail around One Park Place. to the telephone company, well, as she was a few years “Others who prefer to walk inside, can walk all the halls because she already knew they ahead of me. It was her brother on every floor. We have three floors and four wings; it’s were hard workers with who was in the same year as about a mile,” stated Marketing Director Misty Tindall. credibility. Millie retired from me.”

Clara traveled a lot after she retired, but before retireBell South in 1981 with 33 years When Millie got settled into ment, she worked as a nurse in Ft. Lauderdale. In her of service.

One Park Place, she noticed a travels, one summer she donated her time in a nursery clinic Millie’s activities in the sign that said, “If anybody Misty Tindall-Marketing Director Ph: 270-926-6669 in Glennallen, Alaska. She also visited Japan three times Daviess County community wants to play Rook (a trick2701 Frederica Street Fx: 270-688-0878 through missionaries. Clara said, “I also traveled to Haiti on a included: mission work, Owensboro, KY 42301 misty.opp@outlook.com taking card game) come see mission. We helped with building more than anything and attending First Baptist Church, Clara Kihl. When Millie taking care of the children. One little girl had a real high and teaching Sunday school for contacted Clara, she met her in the activity room and fever, and of course they didn’t have medicine or anything, so years. “When I retired, my husband, Chester Miller, sold immediately thought she looked familiar. You see Millie I gave her an aspirin and after a couple hours she was feeling his business, the Lawn and Garden Center, and we knew Clara’s brother, Harry, who was in her high school great! I felt like I had I performed a miracle.” said Clara bought a motor home and traveled the United States,” class. “Clara was a few years ahead of me and upper chuckling.

Millie said. Later we sold the motorhome and purchased classmen don’t usually pay attention to the younger kids, Clara helps with church services at a place in Fort Marsh, Florida, where we spent our so she didn’t know me,” said One Park Place. Even when it isn’t her winter months. Six months out of every year. I played Millie. Clara agreed and said, “But own denomination,she checks the roster tennis, bocce ball, and a lot of table games.”

“After looking at smaller we’ve had great tales to share about to see who’s in and sets up the chairs.

Millie and her husband joined the Friendship Force my brother and some real good homes, I started to think; “We have prayer sessions during the week and went overseas to Holland. “My husband had served laughs! I feel like Millie is my sister.” do I really need to be taking and a prayer box if people want to submit overseas in WWII and met friends from Holland who Clara assists the new activity care of a home, lawn, something; this way we can all help kept in touch. We visited them through the Friendship director in keeping things new at flowers, repairs, etc.?” everyone pray.” says Clara.

Force and later went back to visit our Dutch friends; One Park Place, and Millie also On Sundays, First Baptist Church This led Millie to consider staying in Europe for three weeks touring Holland, brought in a lot of new games for the brings in a tape from the morning’s Germany and Belgium. We made several trips to Europe activity center including: Fast Track Assisted Living.” sermon and every Wednesday there’s over the years and visited ten countries in all. We had a and Mah John. “We now have a lot of devotion time with Ray Acree, a deacon big time over there!” stated Millie. interesting and fun games here,” Clara said. They also go from a local church and resident at One Park Place. “He When Millie’s husband passed, she knew she needed to the Health Park and play games. Millie drives herself helps with devotions and prayer,” says Clara.“ It doesn’t to downsize. “We had lived at Spring Bank in even though One Park Place provides transportation.

Owensboro and the homes there were pretty large,“ said One particular thing Millie and Clara both chimed in to matter if someone is Catholic, Baptist or Presbyterian, we all have prayer together. Every resident also gets a Birthday Millie. “I didn’t want to stay in a big house by myself, so say; is they really appreciate One Park Place having dress card every year. “This place is truly like home.”

I decided to sell our home. Almost immediately after rules. “You don’t go out in the hall with your pajamas or When I asked if there was anything more Millie and Clara listing her home, it SOLD…much quicker than had housecoat on,” said Clara. “What’s nice is you get up and loved about One Park Place; Millie stated, “I feel very secure Millie expected. After looking at smaller homes, I started get dressed, and it makes you feel good to look nice. here.

All our desires are met here and we have our freedom. to think; do I really need to be taking care of a home, You’re also ready to go anywhere at any given time,” Clara lawn, flowers, repairs, etc.?” This led Millie to consider said. So if someone says, hey, would you like to go with us; There is no place we’d rather be. This is our home.”

By Linda Dillon Assisted Living.

27

ASSISTED LIVING

Healthy Hints

Pharmaceutical Assistance Patient Assistance Programs, or PAPs for short, are programs run by nearly all the major pharmaceutical companies. In these programs, assistance is offered to low income individuals by providing them with reduced cost or free medications. These programs are typically open to both individuals with insurance and those that do not have insurance although sometimes the pharmaceutical companies maintain two different programs for these two groups.

To participate in a PAP, applicants are usually required to show proof of income (usually a tax return will suffice), their doctor’s prescription for the required medication and documentation of any insurance coverage they have.

Learn more about Patient Assistance Programs and find links to major pharmaceutical company programs www.payingforseniorcare.com/prescription-drugs/assistance-for-the-elderly.html Coupons Many pharmaceutical companies make discount coupons available online for their brand name drugs.

Often these coupons will discount the cost of a brand name drug so that it equals the cost of the generic version. Most coupons can simply be printed from a

28

webpage and brought to the pharmacist. Be wary of any website that asks you to pay to receive the discount coupon and any websites that request excessive personal information to provide you with the discount coupon.

Tax Deductions The out-of-pocket costs paid for prescription drugs are considered tax deductible under the Medical and Dental Expense Tax Deduction. In order for this deduction to be relevant to an individual tax filer, the total sum of their medical and dental expenses must be greater than 7.5% of their adjusted gross income.

Vitamin D - we know Vitamin D helps with bone density – but what else can one do? High impact exercise and resistant training can help.

How? Get in the gym and build up the bone mass again.

All you need is 20 minutes 3 days a week. Stand up, move and use free weights to help with building balance, core strength and bone mass all at the same time.

Free weights are significantly better.

Apple Cider Vinegar benefits - Oldest remedies around – Apple Cider Vinegar alkalizes your body and promotes hydrochloric acid, which is very important in the intestines especially with proteins. It helps the digestive system.

Just drink a shot 20 minutes before a meal or you can use it in your salad dressings.

Whole foods: Whole foods are foods you would find in nature (without any processing or chemical additives). Eating whole foods that are completely natural, contributes greatly to good health. That’s how nature designed us to eat, and when you eat in an unnatural way, you get sick.

Sugar is a very strong stimulant; it works to form fat, mucus and acid in the body, and provides a false sense of energy.

ASSISTED LIVING

Danhauer’s Custom Medication Packaging O

“A date and time is printed on each packet so ne might wonder why a drugstore in there’s no confusion what time the medication is Owensboro is serving people outside of needed each day, or even multiple times throughout Daviess County. The strongest is their Custom the day,” says Danhauer. “If you travel a lot for work Medication Packaging. While still providing a or pleasure, it’s a great service for people on the traditional full service pharmacy, Danhauer’s go… and there’s absolutely no charge for this custom medication packaging is a huge convenience to folks with numerous medications they specialized service. After an initial consultation, with need to take every day.

Michelle or Kylan (our prescription packaging “Custom Medication Packaging is a technolassistants) you or your caregiver only need to pick ogy originally started in hospitals, and our pharup the box of packaged medications once a month; macy adopted the technology about 20 years ago. with the exception of Owensboro, where we We began using it for all the deliver free within about a mile of the nursing homes we service, then bypass. later it evolved with our You don’t have to wonder; where’s my “Our custom homebound patients and even bottle?

Is it in the car, my purse? You medication regular customers who wanted to don’t have to carry around six bottles, you packaging helps only have to open a single packet. “We’ve simplify their lives,” said Jeff. keep people “When the elderly start getting received great feedback from over 100 confused, accidently skipping patients on the program.” in their homes.” medications or taking additional Not only has custom medication meds because they can’t remember packaging been a strong reason people in if they took them or not, it usually leads to the need Owensboro and surrounding counties choose for Assisted Living. Our custom packaging services Danhauer Drugs; their employees are very care have proven to keep people in their homes longer. conscious. “Personalized service is the core of our They aren’t skipping doses or taking additional business,” states Jeff. “Everyone who works here doses anymore. We’ve made custom packaging a touches the patient in some way. We have 35 simple process for them. It simply requires one employees that consist of five pharmacists: Jeff initial consultation of all medications a person is Danhauer, William Danhaurer, Wes Farmer, Martica prescribed (includes daily vitamins in a 30 day cycle).”

Martin and Kathy Hardy. Additionally we have our

technicians, caregivers, drivers and respiratory therapists. Someone is always following up with our patients to make sure everything is ok. No one is ever just a number here, they’re always a family member to us,” Jeff said. “And a real person always answers the phone!”

In addition to the specialty services, patients can also benefit from Danhauer’s diabetes management, wound care, durable medical equipment, and a complete department of respiratory services, including oxygen supplies, C-pap, nebulizers, etc.

“We have two Respiratory Therapists on staff; Kim Spurrier, CRT, and Brittany Hamilton, RRT, both registered therapists who are available to meet and answer your needs. We also provide a full inhouse billing staff to maximize insurance benefits and reduce your “out-of-pocket” expenses, “ says Jeff.

Danhauer Drugs accepts almost every insurance plan (including Humana and Anthem).

Jeff Danhauer also plays an active role in the Daviess County community. His pharmacy serves several nursing homes, group homes, and healthcare facilities throughout Daviess County and the surrounding areas. Jeff Danhauer is involved in several organizations: including the Kentucky Pharmacists Association and other professional organizations. “True to this day, still rings the Danhauer Drugs’ motto,” states Jeff. “Faithful to your trust since 1904.”

Danhauer Drugs and its health care team are committed to providing the highest quality health care services in a friendly, knowledgeable, and cost effective manner.

• • • • • •

Compounded Perscriptions Custom Medication Packaging Durable Medical – Hospital Beds, Wheel Chairs, Walkers Full Respiratory Care – Oxygen & CPAP Diabetic Care including customized Diabetic Shoes and Medical Supplies.

Wound Care

Danhauer Drugs is family owned and operated since 1904, Personal service is the cornerstone of our business!

330 Frederica St., Owensboro, KY 42310 • 270-684-2341 danhauerdrugs.com

The Care You Deserve Customized Medication Packets

ASSISTED LIVING

Horizon Adult Health Provides much-needed Quality Health Services to aging Kentuckians

M

ore than 700,000 Kentuckians face the daily stress of serving as caregivers for family members. Too often, they’ve had the limited choices of either putting that loved one in a nursing home — which is costly and often against the wishes of the patient — or trying to handle the needs of an elderly parent while maintaining a fulltime job and raising a family.

Further complicating the situation, Kentucky has a nursing home shortage with only about 26,000 nursing home beds for more than 600,000 Kentuckians over age 65 who might need that care.

That’s why Horizon Adult Health provides a range of care for aging Kentuckians and support for their families.

What started more than 20 years ago with adult day-care facilities, Horizon has worked with more than 3,000 families across the Commonwealth – whether it’s providing care for senior loved ones at its 12 adult day centers or in-home care and case management throughout the state. That experience helps Horizon health-care professionals know the best resources available to provide a continuity – and a continuum — of care.

“We’re focused on partnership with caregivers – creating solutions and providing assistance as a trusted and proven alternative to institutional care,” said President and CEO Kelly Upchurch.

“Homeownership is the American dream and a result of a lifetime of hard work. But more than that, it is a place of refuge and comfort.”

Home care Delay of needed in-home services can result in rapid health declines, hospitalizations and nursing home admissions. That’s why Horizon provides a comprehensive range of home care services throughout the state, including: •Personal care, such as bathing and grooming •Companionship •Light housekeeping and laundry •Transportation to the doctor, church, beauty salon/barber •Grocery shopping and errands •Meal preparation •Assistance paying bills •Toileting and incontinence care •Transferring and positioning

“Our goal is to help ensure your loved one can stay safely at home as long as possible.

These families aren’t a number. They’re our neighbors. We can help you achieve your loved one’s goal of staying out of the nursing home and being independent for as long as possible.”

•Relief for family caregivers •Medication reminders The goal of these services is to help ensure loved ones are secure, healthy and connected to the community, which also is important for mental wellbeing.

“Horizon Home Care has changed our lives,” said the daughter of a client. “Their caregivers immediately put Mom at ease. Their attention to quality is impressive. I don’t know what we would do without them.”

Horizon’s home care service area includes Daviess, Henderson, McLean, Ohio, Breckenridge, Hancock and Perry counties as well as others across the state.

Case management When important decisions must be made for a loved one, families need an experienced provider to help navigate the system and be a champion for the family. That’s where Horizon’s case management comes in. It provides clients with a strong advocate and coordinator of care through its statewide services, which include: •Assessment of the client •Participation in development of a comprehensive care plan •Referrals, connections and coordination of Medicaid and non-Medicaid services •Advocacy for the client and family •Consistent contact and monitoring through in home-visits and phone calls

•Reassessment and follow-up •Establishment and maintenance of case record •Crisis assistance planning Adult day health care Horizon Adult Health operates the second largest adult day-care company in Kentucky and the largest adult day health-care company headquartered in Kentucky.

It provides adult day health-care services to the frail and elderly, including door-to-door transportation, skilled nursing services, nutritious meals and recreation opportunities. These services provide respite for family caregivers, allow them to remain working while they care for loved ones and help aging adults stay in their home longer.

As the population of Kentucky continues to age, the need for all three of these components of senior care will become even more critical: More than onethird of Kentuckians over age 65 have four or more chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease and arthritis; and the number of seniors with Alzheimer’s disease is expected to increase 28 percent in 10 years, according to a Kentucky Legislative Research Commission report.

“All of our services will help make sure your loved one is secure, healthy and connected to the community, which is important for mental wellbeing,” Upchurch said. “And it will bring peace of mind and relief to family caregivers.”

Contact Horizon Adult Health at 877-589-3053 or visit www.forhorizon.com to learn more about its professional care with a personal touch.

ASSISTED LIVING

Palliative Care Helps Individuals and Families Navigate Serious Illnesses The word “palliative” isn’t a word you hear every day. But Hospice and Palliative Care of Western Kentucky is trying to change that. Their in-home palliative care program is for individuals with a chronic or serious disease, and is designed to help with pain and symptom management- ensuring their patients are comfortable and able to enjoy life to the fullest.

Palliative simply means providing relief from the symptoms and/or pain related to a disease.

“Several years ago we identified a gap in services for patients who had chronic illness, but didn’t have a diagnosis that warranted hospice care,” said Donna Fitzgerald, Hospice and Palliative Care Chief Clinical Officer. “We started offering palliative care to help manage symptoms and improve the quality of life for those patients. Having symptoms controlled can also mean fewer trips to the emergency room, which really is a benefit to our patients and families.”

Belinda Blair, Hospice and Palliative Care of Western Kentucky’s Chief Executive Officer, says education about palliative care is key. “We get many questions from people in the community about our Palliative Care program. Some think it’s the same as our hospice services. But that isn’t the case. While both palliative care and hospice care provide symptom relief, our Palliative Care program is designed for those

with serious illnesses who don’t have a terminal diagnosis. ” And unlike the patients under hospice care, those receiving palliative care services may also be seeking aggressive treatments for their disease.

“We know dealing with a chronic disease can be difficult. It’s taxing on both the patient and their family.

Our program is designed to help them navigate those waters - they’re able to function with less pain and fewer symptoms. At the end of the day, we want them to feel that they are controlling their disease, rather than their disease controlling them,” Blair added.

The program also includes 24/7 access to a nurse.

“Our patients love being able to call all hours of the day or night, and getting to speak with a person,” stated Fitzgerald. “They know they aren’t alone if they have any issues –if something happens in the middle of the night – their palliative care team is available to help.”

As the population ages, it’s likely that more people will benefit from their Palliative Care program. “Just recently, we’ve seen the number of patients rise,” Fitzgerald noted. “We have been trying to get the word out about this program. We know there are many people that could benefit, and we just want to see them living the best life possible.”

Anyone can make a referral to the Palliative Care program. “Many family members contact us,” Fitzgerald stated. “It doesn’t hurt to have someone assess a loved-one to see if in-home palliative care might benefit them. It’s as easy as making a phone call”.

In addition to palliative care, Hospice and Palliative Care of Western Kentucky offers hospice care for individuals with a terminal diagnosis, and bereavement care for families and community members. To contact them for more information, call 270-926-7565 or visit their websites hospiceofwky.org and pcofwky.org.

270-926-7565 3419 Wathan’s Crossing Owensboro, KY 42301

31

HANCOCK COUNTY SENIOR SERVICES

Introducing new Ameri-Corpmembers at Hancock County Senior Center

Lona Kratzer, Director 270-927-8313 Office Hours: MondayFriday 8:00a.m.

4:00 p.m.

Making A Difference

John Wheatley is ready to help you with your transportation to doctor appt., pharmacies, etc.

At left—Sue Cambron, new Ameri-Corp member is ready to give older adults telephone calls and visits to check on their well being and to chat with them.

Hancock County Senior Services provides many services and assistance for adults 60+ Services include: Congregate Meals ● Nutrition Education ● Nutritious Meals

for home delivered and congregates

● Recreation ● Health Promotion ● Outreach ● Counseling ● Friendly Visiting ● Transportation ● Telephone Reassurance

are served at the following locations:

Hawesville: Monday-Friday11;30 a.m.

Lewisport: Tuesday-Thursday 11:30 a.m.

Dukes: Monthly Potluck - 3rd Wednesday of each month 11:30a.m.

South Hancock: Bi-monthly Potluck 1st & 3rd Wednesday of each month 11:30a.m.

We’re Here To Serve You! The Hancock County Public Library provides a variety of opportunities for people of all ages! We invite you to come in to any of our locations and see what we have available. You can access so many free services by having a library card from the Hancock County Public Library! Your card works at all three locations, too.

Through the years, library service has changed so much....we’re not just about books, anymore!

➞ We offer over 6000 movies on dvd (old & new, which check out for 3 days or 7 days), informational classes, computers with fast internet, one on one computer instruction, a public meeting space, 58 magazines, 6 newspapers, How-to classes, programs for all ages, Book Clubs for adults (with a morning club & an early evening club), a coffee cafe’ (courtesy of our Friends of the Library group), free fax service, copy service (10¢ a page for black/white, 20¢ for color), a comfy seating area, and more!

We work hard to provide services that our community wants and needs. We still provide books in regular print, but we also offer books in large print, for those who prefer the larger letters. So, if you’re a person who just likes to “hold a book” in your hand, we can fix you up! If you prefer to use your mobile device, such as a tablet, iPad, iPhone, or Kindle, we have several free opportunities for you to access a variety of reading material, as well.

HCPL provides free access to a large selection of titles that you can download to your mobile device through our collection, OverDrive, Hoopla, and RBdigital.

These titles are in a variety of options including audio books (where you listen to someone read the book to you), ebook (where the book pages are on your device and you read yourself, swiping the screen to advance to the next page), including a variety of magazines for your device, and we’re here to walk you through it, anytime!

So, as you can see the Hancock County Public Library has many quality services available and they’re all FREE with your library card (and the library card is free, too, when you bring us something to verify you live in Hancock County, own property in HC, or work in HC)! What are you waiting for….stop in and see us and get a library card! We look forward to serving you!

Our friendly home delivered meal drivers Brenda Ables, Christine Schroader and Linda Sanders are packaging meals to take out to some of our homebound clients.

Seniors, we’re here to serve YOU! • We offer a variety of programs that you’d enjoy • We provide computers & internet • We provide FREE Fax Service • We provide books on cd that you can listen to • We provide books to read or listen to on your mobile device.

■ We can help you learn how to use your IPad, Kindle, Nook, or phone ■ Need help with Facebook, email, or something else on the computer?

We offer these services and much more!

Stop in and check out what’s available for you at HCPL!

“Connecting Our Community” Hawesville - Lewisport - Bookmobile

ASSISTED LIVING

Senior Community Center of Owensboro The Senior Community Center of Owensboro Daviess County is a place where folks age 60 and over can come and enjoy a wonderful variety of services at absolutely no cost! We do our best to make it fun here by providing activities such as: yoga, core muscle balance, low-impact aerobic classes, fall prevention, and workout equipment room as part of our fitness commitment to you! The staff also plans fun/safe day trips and even overnight trips. For example: a train trip to Bardstown, KY is one of everyone’s favorites! Additionally, we offer Chess lessons, crafts, and once a month we offer dance classes from the Owensboro Ball Room Dance Club, plus Line Dancing as well!

Congregate Meals: We offer lunches at several different locations throughout Daviess County, and Daily at the Senior Community Center at 11:30 a.m. Check out our website for our other locations and times at: seniorcenterodc.com. Frozen Meal Plan: Owensboro Senior Center is very lucky to have Owensboro Health’s support. They fund our frozen meal program for the center. All the meals are freshly made

by Canteen catering company through a contract with GRADD and served either at a congregate location or delivered to the homebound seniors through the home delivered meals program!

Advocates for Seniors: By working closely with local law enforcement in Daviess County, we make sure they are on guard.

We also work with the Attorney General’s office to protect seniors from crime, scams, and fraud and the

Consumer Protection Agency shares reports with us to help against exploitation, fraud and abuse.

TRIPS AND TOURS

Transportation Issues?

No problem here! With 24 hours notice, we can transport anyone age 60 and over to any place they wish to go within Daviess County! While there is no charge for our transportation services, a suggested donation of $1.50 per round trip is helpful to assist with fuel and maintenance costs. Our vans are wheel chair accessible.

Homebound?

Many of us know depression and anxiety affect the senior population, which can cause a cycle of poor health, resulting in frequent doctor’s visits and hospital stays. Often this is due to isolation associated with being homebound. We address homebound seniors through our frequent telephone calling and frequent visits to let them know someone cares. Additionally, we offer our cost-free PEARLS program in which Licensed Clinical Social Workers screen and counsel clients in the privacy of his or her own home. Free 8 visits over a period of 6 months.

The Senior Community Center is also a resource center where individuals can come and receive counseling on things like Medicare Part D, Social Security, Food Stamps, Medicaid, and even ensuring that your Explanation of Benefits is correct.

For more information on any of our programs, please give us a call or stop by! Our current hours of operation are from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and our phone number is: (270) 687-4640. Web address is: seniorcenterodc.com

HEALTH Exercise classes daily

TELEPHONE REASSURANCE + FRIENDLY VISITING Volunteers call on‘shut-ins’ to check on them and visit those who are lonely and alone.

RECREATION Card Games, Dancing and more.

HOME DELIVERED MEALS

Delicious dinners right to your door!

TRANSPORTATION

1650 W. Second Street • Owensboro, KY 42301 • 270-687-4640 •

seniorcenter.com

SENIOR

DISCOUNTS

Retail Senior Discounts Retail senior discounts are not as readily available as others. However, many retailers will offer a small discount to seniors who ask for it. Some of those companies include the following: • • Kohl’s: Kohl’s offers senior discounts every Wednesday. They can be up to 15 percent off. They allow seniors to combine these discount days with coupons to save even more.

• Ross Stores: Seniors can get 10 percent off if they shop on Tuesdays in the store. Those over 55 qualify for this discount.

• Walgreens: Walgreens offers lucrative senior discounts. Seniors can save 20 percent off one time a month. Seniors need to use their Balance Rewards to obtain the discounts.

• Banana Republic: Seniors can get up to 10 percent off.

• Walmart: Walmart offers very few discounts to seniors. Some locations can offer reduced costs to seniors some days each week.

• Home Depot: Home Depot does not offer specific senior discounts. However, it does price match the discounts that other retailers may offer for the same product in their location.

• TJ Maxx: Shoppers here can qualify for up to 10 percent off when they shop on Mondays. However, this discount is now limitedly available (may only apply in Florida right now).

• Big Lots: Some locations offer discount savings cards. Some locations offer up to 10 percent off through their discount programs.

• Goodwill: Seniors can get between 10 and 20 percent off one day each week. Locations set the dates that work for their needs.

• Target: Limited access to senior discounts is available at Target. However, some locations may offer discounts on specific days for various events.

• Joann Fabrics: On Senior Discount Day, seniors can receive 20 percent off of total purchases; must be 55 or older and discount days vary.

• Amazon: If you are an AARP member you can save 50 percent on certain Kindle e-books, 10 percent on Kindle e-readers, and 10 percent on audio and print books.

• Lowe’s: Veteran seniors can receive 10 percent off of eligible purchases Grocery Store Senior Discounts • Everyone has to go to the grocery store. Senior discounts on grocery purchases can be limited. They may be linked to a card. In some cases, these discounts are on special products.

• Kroger: Some locations offer a senior discount card.

• Publix: Discounts up to five percent off apply at various times. Differ by state.

Restaurant Senior Discounts Perhaps one of the easiest places to find a senior discount is at your favorite restaurants. Though most chains offer discounts across the board, many smaller locations will as well. Be sure to ask about special event

savings days or early dinner discounts available.

• Golden Corral: Ask for a discount here. They vary from one location to the next, but are often discounted meal prices.

• Denny’s: For a deep savings on meals, visit this location. Many offer up to 15 percent off. AARP members could get a lower price significantly.

• Outback: Outback’s senior discount is for AARP members. They can save up to 10 percent on their purchase here.

• Taco Bell: Most Taco Bell locations provide individuals with a discount of five percent off their meal.

Most also provide free beverages to seniors when requested.

• Burger King: Seniors may be able to get a 10 percent discount plus additional discounts on drinks at Burger King.

• McDonalds: A discount here could help you to get a free cup of coffee or a discounted price on one.

• Chick-fil-A: This location provides a free, refillable senior drink with a purchase. It doesn’t apply to coffee, though.

• Subway: Many locations will offer seniors a discount of 10 percent on their purchase.

• Cracker Barrel: A discount senior menu is available at this location.

• Olive Garden: Olive Garden offers senior pricing for early bird dinners.

• Red Lobster: Seniors may be able to find discounts through a senior menu provided.

• Applebee’s: Discounts here vary but can be as much as 15 percent.

• KFC: Individuals get a small drink with any meal purchased here.

• Texas Roadhouse: Seniors may be able to find discounts through a senior menu provided.

• Chili’s: Seniors over 55 are eligible to receive 10 percent off of their bill.

• Dairy Queen: Seniors are eligible to receive 10 percent off at some locations, while other locations offer a free small drink to seniors with an additional purchase.

Leisure Activity Senior Discounts • AMC: Senior pricing on tickets is available for most shows. Discounts are up to 30 percent off.

• Cinemark: Senior discounts are available for early shows. Discounts here are up to 35 percent.

• Marriott: Seniors booking their hotel stay can reduce costs up to 10 percent.

Transportation Senior Discounts If you use any type of transportation, ask for a senior discount. This is especially true for those who use public transportation. You could save a significant amount of money on these discounts.

• American Airlines: Various senior discounts apply to various trips. Call to find which are available.

• Amtrak: Senior pricing is available for most Amtrak locations. This ranges from 10 to 15 percent off.

• Alaska Airlines: Seniors will save a significant amount of money with discount plane tickets. However, discounts vary from one time frame to the next. Most commonly, seniors can save 10 percent.

• Southwest Airlines: Seniors over 65 who are traveling with Southwest Airlines may be eligible for Senior Fares. These are available online and for international and domestic travel. You can also purchase Senior Fares through a customer service representative at the airline or a travel agency. You will need to arrive early at the gate to be able to prove your age in order to be checked in for your flight.

• United Airlines: United offers discounted prices for flights for seniors over 65. Seniors need to select the Over 65 category when purchasing tickets online or with a customer service agent.

• Delta: Senior discounts are available for limited itineraries with Delta Air Lines. However, you must call 1-800-221-1212 to find out if your flight is eligible for the discounted fare.

• Greyhound: Seniors over 62 can receive 5 percent off of Greyhound bus tickets. You do need to provide a photo ID for eligibility.

Communication & Internet Services Many internet service providers recognize that seniors are one of the fastest growing segments in new internet use. And, they are on a fixed budget. That is why many will offer discounts on plans.

• AT&T: Plans are available at reduced costs.

• Verizon: Verizon offers senior plans and discounts. The Verizon Nationwide 65 Plus Plan offers a discounted rate for seniors – rate can change by area .

• T-Mobile: Seniors over 55 can sign up for unlimited talk, text, and LTE data for two lines for a set price of $60 per month.

• Sprint: Has a line of cell phones specially marketed to seniors that include easy to use, accessible features, such as TTY/TDD support, LED alerts, and 911 shortcut keys. However, the company doesn’t offer a senior discount on cell phone plans.

Disastrous Retirement Scams Falling victim to a scam could cost you thousands of dollars.

By Katie Brockman When you’ve spent your entire career diligently saving for retirement, the last thing you want is to get taken advantage of by a scammer and lose your hard-earned savings. However, many retirees are unaware of some of the most common scams they could face, putting themselves (and their money) at risk— and this mistake could potentially drain your retirement fund.

What do scams look like?

Fraudsters are becoming smarter and more sophisticated, so scams are not as easy to detect as they once were. They’re also becoming more expensive: The average scam victim loses around $30,000, according to a study from Allianz Life, and more than 10% of victims lose $100,000 or more.

To avoid falling victim to a scam, it’s crucial to understand what a scam looks like. That way, you can spot it a mile away before you give out any personal information.

More than half (52%) say they’ve never heard of the prepaid credit card scam. This is where unsuspecting adults are told they have an outstanding debt that needs to be paid using a prepaid credit card or debit card. Once the scammer has access to your finances, they make off with your money.

Second, approximately 57% of older adults say they’re unaware of the invoice scam, where a scammer contacts a potential victim saying they work for a certain company (often a utility company) and that the victim owes a fee. Roughly 57% of older Americans also don’t know about the romance scam, in which a scammer will act as a romantic interest to the victim and then ask for money.

Finally, 60% of older adults say they don’t know about the pigeon drop scam, when a scammer says that they have a significant amount of money that they’ll share with the victim if the victim makes an upfront payment.

This is nowhere near an exhaustive list of all the scams out there, as con artists are coming up with new ideas every day. But by being aware of some of the general traits of common scams, you can protect your money from thieves.

How to protect your cash from scammers The number one rule for avoiding a scam is not to give out any money or personal information unless you’re 100% positive the person asking for it is legitimate. If it sounds fishy, it’s better to be safe than sorry and steer clear.

If you’re unsure, ask as many questions as you

number will pop up on your phone. That can trick victims into thinking the call is legitimate and providing any information the scammer asks for.

can. Scammers will likely feel uneasy if they think someone is onto their scheme, and if they can’t provide answers to your questions (or their answers don’t sound right), hang up and file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission.

Phony calls from “IRS” or Social Security Administration Sometimes scammers will pose as government employees in an attempt to seem more official, and you’ll need to be extra careful when dealing with these fraudsters.

Tax season has drawn to a close, but scammers may still be out there trying to convince you that you filed your taxes incorrectly or that you owe the government more money. You may receive a call from someone claiming to work for the IRS alerting you to this “issue,” but don’t be fooled, even if they start threatening you with arrest or an audit. If the IRS is really trying to get in touch with you, it will always send a letter first. And if the IRS does legitimately call you, it will never ask for credit or debit card information over the phone, demand immediate payment, or threaten to bring in the police. If this happens to you, hang up immediately and don’t give out your personal information. Report the scam to the U.S. Treasury and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).

One of the fastest-growing scams involves scammers calling to say they’re from the Social Security Administration and that there’s a problem with your Social Security number. They may tell you it’s been compromised or involved in a crime, and you need to confirm your number over the phone.

One of the reasons the scam is so effective is that the scammer will often “spoof” the caller ID system so that the Social Security Administration’s real phone

If a call from a so-called government official sounds suspicious, hang up and call the official agency’s phone number (not the number you received the call from). Tell them about the call you just received and ask if it’s legitimate before you give out any personal information. The Social Security Administration (and many other government offices) will never ask for your personal or financial information over the phone, so if you receive such a call, it’s safe to assume it’s a scam.

When it comes to your financial security, you can never be too careful. Even one wrong move can result in your losing thousands of dollars, and once the scammer has your money, there’s often little or nothing you can do to get it back.

Fake Charities Scammers may also attempt to take advantage of your generosity by pretending to work for a charity.

This is especially common after natural disasters, when many Americans are looking for ways to help those affected.

Before donating any money, you should always verify that the charity is legitimate. Use the IRS’ TaxExempt Organization Search to see if it is a real nonprofit organization. If you cannot find it there, it’s probably fake. Don’t give out any personal information or any money, and don’t feel pressured if the scammer tries to make you feel guilty for not helping those in need. Look up a legitimate charity to donate to instead, and report the false one to the FTC. Romance Scams Online daters need to be wary of romance scams. With these, scammers create fake dating profiles and strike up a relationship with you. When they think they’ve gained your trust, they ask you to wire them some money, either to come and visit you or to help them pay for emergency expenses.

You may be tempted to comply out of the goodness of your heart, but someone sincerely interested in a relationship with you wouldn’t make that request. Don’t send any money to someone you met online, even if you’ve met them in person once or twice. Report them to the FTC.

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WESTERN KENTUCKY E LDER L AW, PLC DARRON L. BRAWNER • ATTORNEY AT LAW

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