SAN LUIS PROGRESS VALLEY Retirement
2017
March 8, 2017 719-852-3531 835 First Ave. Monte Vista, Colo.
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Retirement Progress
Wednesday, March 8, 2017
Photos by Sylvia Lobato
Residents and family members enjoy the annual Memorial Day services at the Colorado Veterans Community Living Center at Homelake.
CVCLC serves those who served and sacrificed
HOMELAKE—Locally known as “Homelake,” the Colorado State Veterans Center-Homelake prides itself on serving those who served. Honorably discharged veterans, veterans’ spouses or widows and “Gold-Star Parents,” non-veterans, any of whose children have died while serving in the Armed Forces, are eligible for long-term care or short-term rehabilitation. Medical criteria also must be met. The Colorado Veterans Community Living Center (CVCLC) at Homelake was established in 1889 as the Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Home, providing a peaceful home for aging and disabled Civil War and Spanish American War veterans. In addition, the CVCLC has been preserving memories and honoring veterans from every major war in U.S. history. While there is a museum on site, the entire facility is its own display of respect for those who served the country. CVCLC was given a five-star overall rating by The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), placing it among the top 20 percent of nursing homes in Colorado. It also received a 4 star rating for Health Inspections, a 5 star rating for Quality Measures, a 4 star rating for Nursing Staffing and a 5 star rating for RNs Only. In addition to traditional nursing home services, the CVCLC is the only veterans center in the state to offer domiciliary cottages for persons who do not need full time care. In the beginning, it was self-contained,
producing its own food and offering work for those who were able. That was more than 125 years ago. Regulated by the Colorado Department of Human Services veterans community living centers today, the CVCLC offers a 60-bed long-term care skilled nursing home providing medical and non-medical care, including 24/7 registered nurse coverage; physical, occupational and speech therapy, social activities and assistance with bathing, dressing and other activities of daily living. This can include entertainment, exercise and a health and wellness program to keep them busy and active. Some of these activities include music therapy, pet therapy, board games and much more. Transportation is offered to and from doctor’s appointments, shopping and religious worship services. In terms of meal preparation, three healthy, home-cooked meals are provided. Should residents have high blood pressure, diabetes or other medical conditions, the staff is able to provide special dietary accommodations. Forty-eight specially appointed domiciliary cottages are available for individuals who do not require 24-hour care. Medical services are provided in an outpatient clinic 11 hours a day, with emergency medical care available through the nursing home. Physical, occupational and speech therapies are available for individuals seeking to return home following a qualifying hospital stay. Therapy specialists work with each individual to regain skills and improve physical strength,
Seniors can simplify everyday tasks The ability to perform everyday tasks is something many people take for granted. But as men and women approach or exceed retirement age, many may start to struggle with chores and tasks they have performed for decades. Physical limitations are a common side effect of aging. But such limitations do not have to prove too big a hurdle for seniors to clear. In fact, there are many ways for seniors to simplify everyday tasks while maintaining their independence. • Embrace technology. Even the proudest Luddites cannot deny technology’s potential to make seniors’ lives easier. Seemingly simple tasks like shopping for groceries and vacuuming a home can be difficult for seniors with dwindling or limited mobility. But seniors with Internet access in their homes can order their groceries online and then pick them up in-store or have them delivered, saving them the trouble of walking around the store. • Upgrade bathrooms. Tasks associated with personal hygiene also tend to be taken for granted until they become difficult. But a few simple bathroom alterations can help seniors safely navigate the bathrooms in their homes so they can maintain their personal hygiene without fear of injury. Grab bars can be installed on shower walls
so seniors can safely get in and out of their showers and bathtubs. Such bars are both effective and inexpensive, and some do not even require any drilling to install. Specialty grab bars, tub grips and tub transfer benches are just a few additional products that can make bathing easier for seniors who have lost or are starting to lose some of their physical strength. • Get “smart” on the road. Seniors who are experiencing mild difficulty driving can make getting about town that much easier by plugging their smartphones into their vehicles or making use of the various apps that have become standard in modern vehicles. For example, the maps app on a smartphone can be connected to a car and direct seniors to their destinations, saving them the trouble of remembering all the ins and outs of how to get a particular destination. Seniors also can employ apps to help them find their vehicles should they forget exactly where they parked in crowded parking lots. Such apps can increase seniors’ comfort levels on the road while helping them maintain their independence. Aging men and women can employ various strategies to simplify their lives and maintain their independence well into their golden years. TF172805
endurance and aerobic capacity. Short-term “respite” care is accessible home care providers or family members are unavailable, as well as end-of-life/hospice services. All residents receive individual care plans and have access to services from physicians, a social worker and veteran service officer. Top on the list is a memory care facility that provides services for each of its residents including dementia care, most commonly to those suffering from Alzheimer’s Disease and
Parkinson’s Disease, and assists them with bathing, grooming, meal preparation, dressing and more. CSVCLC aims to provide a safe, secure and nurturing environment for its Alzheimer’s residents in a community-style setting. With a newly enlarged cemetery and park like locale, CSVCLC offers safety and a pleasant atmosphere for every person living there, as well as a tranquil place for final rest. For more information, call 719-852-5118.
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Gray Wolves ski into their 80 birthdays BY LYNDSIE FERRELL
SOUTH FORK— The Gray Wolf Ski Club, comprised of a group of friends that decided to do something spectacular on their 80th birthdays, sparked an adventurous tradition and a great way to celebrate a birthday. The entire venture began seven years ago when club member Will James decided that he wanted to hike to the top of Alberta Peak that sits above the Wolf Creek Ski Resort and then ski down the double black diamond face. James started the long-standing tradition which has now been done by 11 people to date. Merely a few weeks ago, Eve Wells broke another record and became the first woman to complete the tradition and carved her name on a trophy that has been made part of the tradition. Her name joined the 10 other participants and sits in the Base Camp Lodge at the ski resort. “It really is a very special way to celebrate an 80th birthday,” stated club member Poppy Borland. Though Wells was not available for comment, Borland summed up the experience by relaying the enormity of the adventure. Borland continued to explain that Wells followed her husband Ozzie, who had completed the task seven years prior. “Eve was the first woman to do this, and all I can say is that I hope to do something that cool when I am 80,” stated Borland. “We get off at the top of the treasure lift and about 20 of us hike to the top of Alberta Peak
which is 12,000 feet. It’s about a half mile hike from the lift. Once we are up there we celebrate the person’s birthday, take a picture of the group and then ski down the double black diamond course. It’s all part of being in the club,” stated Borland. She continued by stating that anyone who is interested in performing the birthday adventure is welcome to do so and that it is one of the many perks of being a part of the ski club. The club is the longest running club at the resort and has well over 800 members from all over the nation and some from abroad. The club spends their time in the summer hosting parties and tailgate barbeques in anticipation for the coming ski season. Once September hits it’s all downhill from there as the group begins to plan fun activities for the coming season. The group does everything from Tutu Tuesday’s to Super Hero Day to add to the fun of the ski season. “We like to celebrate. People who want to join are over 50 and its time to just have fun at that point,” said Borland. Other perks of joining the group is that members receive discounted ski tickets, lunches sponsored by the resort and Courtesy Photos a myriad of activities to partake in throughout The Gray Wolf Ski Club has celebrated 11 birthdays since 2009, bringing in member’s the year. 80th birthdays with style. The group has had a fantastic year, enjoying every inch of powder that has fallen to date and are looking forward to many years to come. For more information or to join the Gray Wolf Ski Club, visit www.graywolfskiclub.com
Gray Wolf Ski Club member Eve Wells was the first woman to hike the half mile to the top The Gray Wolf Ski Club can be seen hiking up Alberta Peak which sits at the top of Wolf of Alberta Peak and ski the double black diamond course down the face of the mountain for her 80th birthday. Creek Ski Resort near the Treasure lift.
How to avoid growing bored in retirement From the moment young men and women first walk into the office for their first day as a working professional until the day they officially retire, the notion of planning for retirement is never far from their minds. But when the day to hang up the briefcase and donate all those business suits arrives, some retirees wonder what to do next. Some retirees know exactly how they will spend their days when they no longer have to work, while others who decide to play it by ear may find themselves battling boredom. For those among the latter group, it’s important to understand that many retirees find themselves bored once they no longer have to focus on a career. Jobs keep men and women busy and provide a sense of purpose in their lives, so it’s understandable that retirees feel bored once those jobs are no longer a part of their lives. But just because you no longer have an office to go to every day does not mean life cannot be as fulfilling or even more fulfilling than it was when you were still working. You just need to find something to avoid succumbing to retirement boredom. • Work part-time. Though it might seem odd to start working right after you retire, a part-time job can provide the type of structure you have grown accustomed to without all of the responsibility that comes with a full-time career. Part-time jobs can range from consultancy work that makes use of your professional experience to something entirely different like
landscape maintenance at a nearby golf course that gets you out of the house and enjoying the warmer seasons. Whichever you choose, make sure it’s something you find fun and interesting. • Embrace a new hobby. Working professionals often say they wish they had time to pursue a hobby. Now that you are retired, you have all the time in the world to do just that. Whether it’s perfecting your golf game, writing that novel, learning to cook like a gourmet chef or whatever else you might have always wanted to do, retirement is a great time to do it. • Get in shape. If retirement boredom has started to negatively affect your mood, one great way to conquer your boredom and improve your mood at the same time is to start exercising. Exercise is a natural mood enhancer. When the body exercises, it releases chemicals knowns as endorphins, which trigger positive feelings in the body. In addition, regular exercise has been shown to reduce stress, boost self-esteem and improve sleep. Working out at a gym also is a great way to meet fellow retirees in your community, and the energy you have after exercising may give you the boost you need to pursue other hobbies. • Volunteer. If a part-time job is not up your alley, then consider volunteering in your community. Volunteers are always in demand, and volunteering with a local charity can provide a sense of purpose and provide opportunities to meet like-minded fellow retirees, all while helping to quell your boredom. Retirees who
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Embracing a new hobby is one way for recently retired men and women to avoid growing bored during retirement. love to travel can combine their passion for volunteering with their love of travel by signing up to work with an international relief organization that travels abroad to help the less fortunate. Upon retiring, many retirees initially find themselves coping with boredom. But there are many ways to avoid the restlessness of retirement. LP153011
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Tri-County offers seniors services, fun events BY T ERESA L. BENNS
MONTE VISTA — Tri-County seniors in Monte Vista is the hub for senior citizen activities in the Valley, providing housing and entertainment for seniors in Mineral, Saguache and Rio Grande counties. Tri-County’s HUD-operated housing unit at 311 Washington St. in Monte Vista provides both regular and reduced cost housing for qualified low-income and handicapped residents. Four units are handicapped accessible and meet Americans With Disabilities Act requirements. Rent is based on a senior’s adjusted income less medical expenses. One can own a home, have savings or certificates of deposit and still qualify for the units, Baumfalk said. The first step to qualifying for housing is to fill out an application. Applicants must be at least 62 years old. Baumfalk reviews each application, checks the adjusted income figures for low-income applicants and sets the rent according to HUD guidelines. South Central Seniors rents the kitchen at Tri-County and provides lunch for seniors at the center from Monday through Friday. Social Services visits the center once a month and public health also checks blood pressures monthly at the center. Alamosa Foot and Nail Care trims toenails by appointment, an important service for diabetics. The center sponsors card games after lunch most days, or participating seniors play dominoes or chickenfoot. Tri-County brings in speakers on different topics and hosts meetings for diabetics and those with chronic illness. They also host dances, bingos, potlucks, arts and crafts and exercise classes. Pool players meet daily. Both men and women are busy honing their skills. There also is a monthly breakfast held on the first Saturday of each month (this is a fundraiser for the Senior Center). The chefs are members of the Tri-County’s Board of Directors). The board for Tri-County changes periodically, Baumfalk said and with new board members come new ideas. “Part of
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Tri-County Senior Citizens and Housing host various dances throughout the year. Attendees enjoyed dancing during a January Snowball Gala. our function is to keep people independent,” Baumfalk said. “And we are always looking for volunteers with fresh ideas.” Below is a list of Tri-County activities for seniors planned for 2017: March 18-St. Patrick’s Dance March 23-Annual Meeting
April 1-Breakfast April 22– Spring Luncheon June 3– Breakfast June 24– Hamburger Fry July 21-Yard/Bake Sale Aug. 5-Breakfast Aug. 11-Senior Fun Day Sept. 2-Breakfast
Sept. 23-Auction Oct. 7-Breakfast Oct. 23-Halloween Dance Nov. 4-Breakfast Nov. 5– Bridge Tournament Nov. 18-Bazaar To inquire further about Tri-County Seniors, call 852-5778.
Tips for grandparents helping to raise children As retirement age approaches, many older adults envision themselves downsizing and moving to a quaint community to enjoy their golden years in as relaxing a fashion as possible. However, for a growing number of seniors, their retirement years are being spent helping to raise grandchildren. United States Census data from 2010 indicates 4.9 million American children are being raised solely by their grandparents. CanGrads, a National Kinship Support organization, says approximately 62,500 children are being raised by grandparents and other family in Canada. Many grandparents provide part-time care when their older children have to move back home with their families, as roughly 13 million children are now living in homes with their grandparents. Although being raised by grandparents may not be the ideal situation for all parties involved, such situations are a necessity for many families. Seniors who are once again thrown into the caregiver arena may need a crash course in childcare or a few pointers on parenting in the modern age. • Get the right equipment. Children certainly require a lot of gear, more than grandparents likely used when raising their own children. Certain safety requirements are in place to safeguard young children, and that often means investing in new cribs, car seats, high chairs, and other items. Grandparents should resist the temptation to use old items they may have kept in storage, as such items may no longer be safe and could put grandchildren at risk for injury. • Gather important documents. Grandparents should keep pertinent documents in one easily accessible place in their homes should an emergency arise. These include birth
certificates, health immunization records, death certificates (if the child’s parents are deceased), dental records, school papers, citizenship papers, and proof of income and assets. • Speak with an attorney. Lawyers can help grandparents wade through legal arrangements, such as filing for custody, guardianship or adoption. Options vary depending on where petitioners live, but lawyers can provide peace of mind to grandparents concerned about their grandkids’ futures. • Investigate financial assistance. Seniors may not earn the income they once did and may be on assistance programs or living off of retirement savings. Grandparents who find themselves caring for a child may be eligible for financial assistance. The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families is a joint federal and state program that can provide need-based financial assistance. The AARP or the organization GrandFamilies may be able to put grandparents in touch with financial advisors in their areas. • Contact schools and daycare centers. School-aged children will need to be enrolled in school. Grandparents should contact the department of education where they live to learn about local school systems, especially when grandkids are moving in with their grandparents. Some grandparents can qualify for free or lowcost daycare, and such programs can be discussed with local Social Services offices. Enrollment in school or daycare can provide grandparents with much-needed free time during the day. • Find emotional support. Taking care of grandchildren is a full-time job. At times, grandparents may feel stressed or out of
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sorts. Having a strong support system available can help grandparents work through the peaks and valleys of this new and unexpected stage in life. Church- or community center-based counseling services may be available. Grandparents also can check with their healthcare providers to determine if counseling or therapy sessions are covered
under their plans. Caring for grandchildren is a life-changing event. Although it can be fulfilling, it also requires a lot of energy and commitment. But grandparents needn’t go it alone, as there are numerous resources available to seniors who suddenly find themselves caring for their grandchildren. FP155143
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How and why do pension plans fail BY TERESA L. BENNS
SAN LUIS VALLEY — Ordinarily, when a company goes out of business or files bankruptcy employees are not in danger of losing their pension because a government agency, the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation (PBGC), insures the pensions. Since Wall Street’s taxpayer bailout in 2008, PGBC has been flooded with claims. Although pension insolvency has improved over the past five years, many pension funds are still far from healthy. While there is not much a pensioner can do to shore up a pension after the fact, those preparing for retirement now can take steps to manage their own accounts and investigate which are the soundest plans available.
How pensions work In deducting money for Pension or Defined Benefit (DB) plans, employers promise to pay workers a fraction of their highest salary after retirement and for the rest of their lives. Unlike in the 1980s, when about 38 percent of private sector employers offered pensions, today this has dropped to only 15 percent. Today, most private sector individuals fund their own retirement. But almost all public sector employees still have their pensions, and they are relying on these funds to see them through their retirement years. In some states, police and firemen don’t pay payroll taxes so they won’t be receiving social security. They rely on their pensions to provide their only income in old age. PBGC has a $59,000 per year on pension payment, so for those earning under this amount their entire pension is insured. According to PBGC statistics, 85 percent of pensioners collect their full benefit amount. Those who retire before age 65 receive reduced benefits. This can cut payments by more than a third for those retiring at age 55 and who begins payment at age 55 and by about a third at age 60. Workers who assign survivor’s benefits to their spouses after their death also receive lower payments.
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Colorado public pensions A policy analyst with the Independence Institute pointed out in 2014 that Colorado’s Public Employee Retirement Association (PERA) is failing and this is hindering the state from attracting the most desirable employees. Despite ongoing problems with the fund, last year Gov. John Hickenlooper signed a bill requiring PERA to divest itself of investments with international companies economically sanctioning Israel. In some
cases this involves withdrawing investments. A PERA spokeswoman objected that this would entail additional costs and increase the possibility of risk losses. The retirement board also voted to oppose the legislation, to no avail. In 2011, the state of Colorado was funding PERA at only 59 percent, one of the lowest rates in the country. Although the industry standard percentage differs among financial advisors, a pension fund is considered “healthy” at 80 percent when the state’s obligations to retirees is considered. While statistics show the fund percentage had increased to 65 percent as of 2015, this is still well below the recommended 80 percent. Why pensions fail Both state and local plans experience underfunding by failing to address abysmal accounting standards and practices, state agencies tolerating local governments who underfund their plans and plan trustees who squander profits realized in “fat” years rather than leaving them in the fund.
Senior citizen job training offered through SER SAN LUIS VALLEY—SER Jobs For Progress, a federally funded Job training program announces the availability of several openings for paid job training positions. Are you are 55 years of age or older and currently unemployed, but would like to find work? SER Jobs for Progress is a federally funded program for seniors who are economically challenged and unable to find work due to a lack of job skills. The program offers income while learning new skills. Participants are paid to learn; they will be placed in part-time work experience assignments that will enhance opportunities for employment.
SER Jobs for Progress is tax dollars at work. The U.S. Dept. of Labor has funded this program for 50 years and is committed to recruit, train, and place eligible seniors in subsidized training. They are currently accepting applications for enrollment in La Plata, Montezuma, Archuleta, Rio Grande, Conejos and Saguache counties. They are also in need of non-profit organizations; city, county and government businesses who would like to participate in the program and receive the benefit of free help, paid for by the U.S. Dept of Labor. For additional information call the Jobs for Progress office in Durango at: 970-385-3995.
For example, in Detroit fund returns were very high at one point so retirees and workers received the excess in bonuses. But this defies the principle of saving for a rainy day so when the fund dips low there is offset, thus precipitating underfunding. If a pension board sees consistent underfunding (particularly in private sector funds), a forensic audit of investments should be conducted. As in murder investigations, questions must be answered, and a determination made whether the fund “died” as a result of human error or was there foul play? The parties responsible for the crime must be Often it will be discovered that conflicts of interest, unethical business practices, and shady compensation agreements are common practice in the pension investment field. This of course harms performance and affects the integrity of pension investment strategies. Pension failure can be understood and prevented, but recovery of the funds takes time. Public entities, especially, must learn to be better stewards and respect those employees who have paid into the find.
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Walker explains early onset dementia to community
ALAMOSA— Selegiline, vitamins B and E and ginkgo— these are some medicines that patients with dementia often consume. They have not been proven to improve or delay the onset of dementia,” explained Dr. Mugabe Walker at the InPerson Eldercare Series event sponsored by San Luis Valley Health on Jan. 12. Dr. Walker recently added certified medical director to his title. He received formal training in geriatric medicine at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (so he’s a Steeler’s fan). The presentation to a full house of over 70 participants made a point that there is a need for more information for caregivers who are facing that a family member has been diagnosed with dementia. Walker covered many topics including types of dementia, testing and treatments and how important it is to rely on local resources in the community for support. There were several San Luis Valley organizations which focus on caring for older adults in the community who set up a resource table in the adjacent room. He also emphasized that during the early stages is the time to get advanced directives in place, such as the power of attorney, the MOST form and other wishes. Walker left time for questions and said that being the caregiver isn’t always easy and sometimes difficult decisions have to be made, but no one should feel alone. The presentation was the first of a four part series; the next one will be on April 13 at 5:30 p.m. Dr. Walker recently added certified medical director to his title. He received formal training in geriatric medicine at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. Courtesy Photo
Volunteering as an older adult: How to find the right fit for your new lifestyle
Many parents feel involving their children in volunteering at an early age can have a profound, long-lasting impact on their kids. But youngsters are not the only ones who can reap great rewards from volunteering, as studies show that men and women at, beyond or approaching retirement age also benefit greatly from volunteer work. Research from the Corporation for National and Community Service found that more than 20 million older adults contributed in excess of three billion hours of community service time each year from 2011 to 2013. The reasons why older adults volunteer are varied, but in its 2014 survey the AARP’s Experience Corps found that 97 percent of its volunteers indicated that their volunteer work with the organization gave them a sense of purpose. Older adults who want to volunteer but have little or no history with volunteering might not know where to begin with regard to finding the right opportunity. The right fit can make all the difference for volunteers and the people they help, and the following tips might help older adults as they look for an opportunity that best utilizes their skills and experience. • Know your schedule. Older adults who are still working but want to volunteer may have a firm grasp on their schedules, but even retirees should not overestimate how much time they have to volunteer. Before you begin to look for an opportunity, write down your commitments and daily schedule, using this list to determine how much free time you have to volunteer. Some opportunities require greater time commitments than others, so make sure you know just how much time you can devote to an opportunity before signing up. • Give due consideration to your experience. Older adults who have retired or are on the cusp of retirement have a lifetime of experience they can use to help others. Imparting wisdom learned in your professional life can provide a sense of purpose and even make you feel as though you are still actively involved in the industry where you built your professional reputation. But life experience can also prove invaluable in volunteering opportunities. Mentoring programs give volunteers the chance to
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help young people, and such opportunities can involve more than just offering professional advice. • Don’t downplay the significance of certain opportunities. Volunteering opportunities come in many variations, and each is significant in its own right. Coaching a grandchild’s soccer team can have as significant an impact on the people you help as other volunteering opportunities. Volunteers offer their time because they have a passion to help others, and that help can be given in a myriad of ways. • Leave time for the rest of your life. Volunteering is a selfless act, and volunteers are the backbone of many successful charitable
organizations. But older men and women should leave time for the rest of their lives as well. Retirement should be fulfilling but also include time for recreation, so don’t downplay how important hobbies are to you in an attempt to find more time to volunteer. No retiree wants to grow resentful of his or her volunteer work because it leaves little time for other pursuits, so do your best to balance your charitable endeavors with the other things in life that matter to you. Finding the right volunteer opportunity can make all the difference for older men and women who want to give back to their communities. LP173839
Cut the costs of prescriptions The costs of filling prescriptions is simply too big to bear for many people, even now that the Affordable Care Act has greatly reduced the amount of people who are uninsured. A survey from the Commonwealth Fund found that 35 million people in America failed to fill a prescription in 2014 because of the cost of the medication. That figure represents an improvement from 2010, when 48 million people did not fill their prescriptions due to the costs of those medications, but it still serves to highlight a need many people have to cut the costs of their medicine. Though people who cannot afford to fill their prescriptions often feel helpless, there are a handful of ways they can cut the costs of their medications and start feeling better. • Discuss changes with your physician. Perhaps the simplest way to cut prescription costs is to discuss medication options with your physician. Brand-name drugs are typically more expensive than generic alternatives, so speak with your physician about generic drugs or less costly brandname drugs that may treat your condition as well as expensive brand-name drugs do. • Consider Patient Assistance Programs. Sometimes referred to as “Pharmaceutical Assistance Programs,” Patient Assistance Programs, or PAPs, can greatly reduce the burden of prescription drug costs. Sponsored by pharmaceutical companies, PAPs distribute billions of dollars to patients who otherwise could not afford their medications. Eligibility criteria varies depending on the program, but men and women struggling to pay for their prescriptions can speak with their physicians about PAPs. • Consult your member organizations. If you are a member of the AAA automotive group or the American Association of Retired Persons, you might be eligible for medication discount cards free of charge. These cards provide discounts on your medications, but some come with expensive fees upfront. Look for no-fee cards, such as those offered to AAA and AARP members or others offered by nonprofit organizations, before considering options offered by pharmaceutical companies or other for-profit businesses.
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Inviting elderly relatives or neighbors over to dinner and social gatherings is a great way to make them feel like valued members of your community.
Ways to lend a helping hand to seniors
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Grab bars and shower benches can make bathrooms much safer for seniors.
How to prepare a home for elderly residents Upon reaching retirement age, new retirees may face decisions regarding their living arrangements. Some seniors may opt to stay put, while others may want to downsize their homes to save money and relieve themselves of the burdens of maintaining larger homes. But those are not the only situations seniors find themselves in. Some seniors realize they can no longer care for themselves without assistance. In such instances, seniors may opt for assisted living facilities or choose to move in with a relative, such as a grown son or daughter. While assisted living facilities are designed to meet the needs of the elderly, young men and women welcoming seniors into their homes may need to take on some home improvement projects to ensure their homes are as safe as possible for elderly residents. • Convert a room on the first floor into a bedroom. While this may not apply to all seniors, some men and women struggle with stairs as they age, and that can make it difficult for them to fully participate in a household. Homeowners with an extra room to spare can convert a room on the first floor of their homes into a bedroom so seniors won’t have to climb up and down stairs throughout the day. That ease of accessibility to the primary floor of the house encourages seniors to be active participants in a household. If possible, choose an area that is close to a first-floor bathroom. • Take steps to make bathrooms safer. The National Institute on Aging says that more than one in three seniors over age 65 fall each year, and 80 percent of those falls take place in the bathroom. Slippery tile floors can make it difficult for seniors to navigate bathrooms safely, and bathtubs and shower stalls present
additional challenges. Install grab bars on bathroom walls and next to toilets to provide support. In addition, consider installing a shower chair or bench and removable shower nozzle in the shower or tub so seniors can sit down while they bathe and rinse without having to stand up on slippery surfaces. Make sure any mats around bathtubs and sinks are nonskid to reduce the risk of falls even further. • Install an extra phone line or two. While kids and adults between the ages of 18 and 50 may never use the landlines in their homes, many seniors still rely on traditional telephones as their primary means of communicating with the outside world. Install extra landlines in your home, including in seniors’ bedrooms, so they can more readily access the phone should they fall and need to call for emergency help. Phones in seniors’ bedrooms may also provide some additional privacy to seniors who don’t want to carry on phone conversations in busy areas of the home, such as the kitchen or living room. Such lines may also reduce feelings of isolation. • Prioritize accessibility when storing items. When storing groceries, books, magazines, or other items seniors are likely to use, choose locations that are accessible to seniors. Avoid storing items on the top shelf of pantries, bookcases or entertainment centers, as seniors with limited mobility may not be able to reach them. Many seniors move in with their adult children to make their golden years safer and more enjoyable and manageable. Such a change in living arrangements may necessitate some changes on the part of homeowners so they can ensure their homes are safe for seniors. FP165047
Men and women looking to give back to their communities can do so in various ways. Some might coach youth sports teams, while others might organize food and clothing drives for the less fortunate. Giving back to seniors in your town or city is another way to strengthen your community. Many seniors maintain their independence long past retirement age, but some may need a helping hand as they get older. The following are a handful of ways you can improve the quality of life of seniors in your community. • Deliver meals. Seniors who are confined to their homes typically need to have their meals delivered to them. Men and women looking to help seniors can volunteer to work with their local Meals on Wheels program. Meals on Wheels boasts a national network of more than 5,000 independently run programs, and these programs rely on more than two million volunteers to deliver nutritious meals to seniors with limited mobility. The need for volunteers to help seniors figures to grow in the coming decades, as Meals on Wheels America notes that the percentage of the population that qualifies as seniors will grow from 18 percent in 2010 to 26 percent by 2050. • Help around the house. The work required to maintain a home is considerable no matter a person’s age, but that task is even more difficult for seniors. Even the healthiest seniors may not have the mobility or physical strength required to keep up with household chores. Offering to help a senior maintain his or her home is a great way to improve their quality of life. Visit an elderly relative or neighbor and offer to mow their lawn, take out their garbage or perform another task they might find chal-
lenging. Performing a few chores around a senior’s house won’t take long, but such gestures can have a big impact on seniors’ lives. • Invite seniors over for dinner. Many seniors suffer from feelings of isolation, which can contribute to depression. Families are now more geographically diverse, and a senior’s children and grandchildren may not live nearby. In such cases, it’s easy for seniors to grow lonely and feel isolated from their communities. Inviting seniors over for a weekly dinner or to backyard social gatherings can help them maintain a connection to their communities and reduce their feelings of isolation. Extending such invitations also provides a great way for parents to instill in their children a respect for and appreciation of the elderly. • Arrange transportation for seniors who no longer drive. Many seniors stop driving when they realize their skills behind the wheel have diminished. But even though they may relinquish their drivers’ licenses, seniors still need to keep their doctor’s appointments and get out of the house. Speak with your neighbors who also want to help seniors to arrange transportation for those who can no longer get themselves around town. Explain to seniors’ physicians when you or your neighbors are most available to get seniors to their appointments. In addition, offer to drive seniors to the grocery store when making your own shopping trips. Many seniors made valuable contributions to the communities they call home. And those communities can give back by helping seniors overcome the demands of aging. GB15B653
Financial planning presentation set ALAMOSA — The Alzheimer’s Association will hold a free presentation, “Legal & Financial Planning,” on Thursday, March 9, from 12:30-3 p.m. at the SLV Health—Education & Conference Center, 1921 Main St. (Hwy. 160),
Alamosa, with a light lunch provided by SLV Health. This workshop is for anyone who would like to know more about what issues to consider and how to put plans in place. Call 719-5445720 or contact Donna Wehe at 719-589-2511.
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Retirement Progress
Wednesday, March 8, 2017
Managing the costs of assisted living Photo by Lyndsie Ferrell
Construction is continuing on the River Valley Inn in Del Norte; it is expected to be complete early this summer.
River Valley Inn nearing completion BY ANTHONY GUERRERO DEL NORTE—Del Norte’s new nursing home is nearing completion. The long-term nursing home, River Valley Inn, is projecting construction completion early this summer. With an estimated cost of $5 million, local suppliers and contractors have benefited from 75 percent of the work done to date. The project is on schedule, and River Valley Inn intends to continue using the same workforce and suppliers through completion. They will begin advertising for employee applications this spring. The 37,500 square foot facility will employ 50 to 70 people, depending on the needs and acuity levels of the residents. This business will have further economic impacts to the area. Employee spending will create an additional $485,400 in earning in other sectors, and about 23 additional jobs will be generated in the region as a result. Construction has been progressing well since the groundbreaking ceremony last May. Community leaders and project leaders gathered at the building site and broke ground celebrating the future. CEO and President of C&G HealthCare Management Joyce Humiston who will oversee the facility has made sure to thank four individuals from the community of Del Norte who have taken extra steps to make the nursing a home a reality. Those people are Upper Rio Grande Economic Development Co-Directors Marty and Bonnie Asplin, Del Norte Bank President Mike Hurst and Del Norte Town
Administrator Bernadette Martinez. Humiston has said the community is very blessed to have the Asplins. She remarked how they have helped in the process by completing things that needed done so the company would not have to travel four hours for simple tasks. Hurst and his bank have also been instrumental. Humiston said that C&G always tries to keep their investments local. They have a commitment to keeping the money that is spent in the community they serve. Humiston said that Hurst made this the easiest banking project C&G has ever gone through. “We are very excited for the Del Norte area and look forward to becoming business partners in the community and caregivers for the people who require help,” said Humison. River Valley Inn will accommodate 60 residents with 32 private rooms and 14 double occupancy rooms. There will be special amenities for its residents including a beauty shop, private dining area, gym, full laundry, commercial kitchen and dining and a therapy kitchen. Linda Carter, a partner with C&G HealthCare Management, gave remarks during last year’s groundbreaking ceremony. “We are a family coming to this town to be a part of your family. Our motto is ‘where quality in life is most important.’ We want to teach this philosophy. One of the things we hope will happen is that this community will visit their friends and family here. We are here to help people get through whatever trials are to come. The staff will become family to the residents; you can be guaranteed of that.”
As individuals age, various circumstances have to be reassessed. A current living situation may not be meeting the needs of a senior who may be having difficulty caring properly for himself or herself. Families often consider senior residences to provide welcoming and safe environments for their loved ones during the golden years of their lives. These facilities may range from independent living homes with minimal care offered to nursing homes that provide more intensive care when needed. Somewhere in the middle lies assisted living homes, which blend the independence of personal residences with other amenities, such as the housekeeping, medication reminders or meal services. Assisted living can be a viable option when a person can no longer live alone, but such facilities come with a price. According to a Market Survey of Long-Term Care Costs conducted by MetLife, the national average for assisted living base rates was $3,550 per month in 2012. In the 2015 Cost of Care Survey conducted by Genworth Financial, the assisted living, national-median monthly rate was now $3,600 — and it’s only expected to grow. Affording these homes and apartments can be challenging for those with fixed incomes, but there are some strategies that can help. The payment method that serves you best will depend on your unique circumstances, but there are options available. • Long-term care insurance: Long-term care insurance is specialized insurance that is paid into and may cover the cost of assisted living facilities and other medical care, depending on the policy. The American Association for Long-Term Care Insurance says that only roughly 3 percent of Americans have this type of insurance, but
it is something to consider during working years. • Personal savings: Some people have the means to pay for assisted living with their own savings and retirement nest eggs. However, it’s easy for savings to become depleted when facing a $40,000+ per year bill. • Life insurance: A financial advisor may advocate to pay for assisted living with a life insurance policy. Some companies enable you to cash out for “accelerated” or “living” benefits, which usually is a buy-back of the policy for 50 to 75 percent of the face value. Other third parties may purchase the policy for a settlement of a lump sum, again roughly 50 to 75 percent of the policy’s face value, according to Caring.com, an online source for support and information about the needs of aging people. • Location: Costs of assisted living facilities vary depending on location. It’s possible to get a lower monthly rate simply by choosing a facility in a different state. • Negotiation: Not all prices are set in stone. Speak with a manager at the facility and see if there is any price flexibility or move-in incentives. You also may be able to get a lower rate by negotiating certain a-la-carte costs against all-inclusive pricing. Perhaps you do not need laundry or shopping services, and family members can fill in the gaps, reducing your bill. • Veteran’s benefits: Many veterans are eligible for care benefits that can offset the cost of assisted living care. • Rooms: Opting for a smaller room or sharing a space can keep costs down as well. See if shared rooms are a possibility. Assisted living is a necessity for thousands of people. Explore the ways to finance this purchase. MM15C743
Adopting a pet later in life
Companion animals bring great joy to their owners. The unconditional love cats and dogs provide appeals to people of all ages. While many people associate pets with kids who can’t wait to welcome the first cat or dog into their homes, pets can benefit aging men and women as well. It’s not uncommon for seniors to feel lonely or depressed when they retire, their children move away or they lose a spouse or close friend or friends. The American Humane Society states that studies show pets help seniors overcome loneliness and depression by providing affection, company and entertainment. Pets also provide much-needed mental stimulation, and many pet owners find their pets help them become more physically active as well. Seniors who adopt pets may also feel a sense of purpose when helping animals who may not have anywhere to live. This is particularly true of older companion animals, which many young families are understandably hesitant to adopt. Mature pets might be an ideal fit for seniors. When seniors are looking to adopt a pet, there are various reasons why older pets or particular animals might be the perfect fit for them. • Adult pets may already be house trained, saving seniors the trouble and effort of training them. • Seniors may find cats fit their lifestyles more than dogs, as cats are less active and do not need to be walked or played with as
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Consider the different options available to help pay for assisted living services.
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much as dogs. Cats also are small and easily maneuverable, meaning even seniors who have arthritis or other physical limitations can easily care for cats. Many cats are also content to spend long periods of time sleeping on their owners’ laps. • Small dogs that can be active within the house might be a good idea as well, especially for seniors with mobility issues. They’re also easily transported to and from vet appointments. It’s important that seniors carefully weigh the benefits of adopting a pet against any limitations they may have. Having a backup plan for care is advantageous as well. Seniors should not adopt a pet if they anticipate frequent travel or medical care that requires they be away from home for long periods of time. LP173830
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