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Lexington County Chronicle & The Dispatch-News

Livin’ It Up

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May 25, 2017 Retirement and Pre-Planning Guide • 1

Livin’ It Up A Guide to Aging Gracefully

Lexington County Chronicle & Lake Murray Fish Wrapper

May 25, 2017

2 • Livin’ It Up

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May 25, 2017 Retirement and Pre-Planning Guide

Lexington County Chronicle & The Dispatch-News

ATTENTION: Denture Sufferers and People with Missing Teeth:

Three Health Secrets You Must Know NOW & How to Fix Them

#1 Bone loss in your jaw will make you look older, faster (caused by missing or no teeth). The image on the far right looks prematurely-old compared to the one on the left, because the space between her no se and chin has decreased from lack of, or no teeth.

FREE!

Call today for your 100% FREE, Dental Implant consultation and $150 off any implant treatment! Learn first-hand, at no cost from Dr. Wych, exactly what it would take to either replace missing teeth with implants, or, get you forever out of dentures…adding life to your years and years to your life!

Dr. Wych will perform a limited exam, take any necessary xrays and together, you’ll work to determine if dental implants are YOUR solution to missing teeth or going, Denture-Free!

Regularly $449, this limited exam, implant consultation, and $150 implant treatment is yours, TODAY! Call now to schedule your appointment. Due to limited available appointments, this special offer expires June 22, 2013, or, when the first 10 new patients are scheduled.

Dr. Wych’s front office staff will schedule you at the first available opportunity.

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803-781-1600

#2 Dentures may increase your risk of heart disease and oral cancer.

Bacteria can get trapped in areas behind or under your denture, and can lead to bone disease or oral cancer. If dentures do not fit properly, gum disease is almost a certainty. #3 Dentures may reduce your life span. Those with poor-fitting dentures or missing teeth in the back of their mouths can have shorter life spans – by up to 10 years – according to the founder of the Mayo Health Clinic, Charles Mayo, MD. This is due in large part to poor eating habits and lack of nutrition, which leads to digestive problems.

If you have ever thought about replacing your missing teeth with a single dental implant, or multiple dental implants, or to improve the quality of your life by stabilizing your dentures, now is the time!

Patients have improved their overall health status and nutrition. They can eat better, chew better and live longer, than with dentures alone!

And studies show, that implants have a more positive impact on leisure and social activities than just dentures alone.

When you have the confidence to eat, and eat proper foods, foods you love and may have missed, and live your life to the fullest, enjoying your friends, family and spouse, your overall health and outlook on life will change and improve.

Imagine, waking up each morning with teeth in your mouth!

Gregory J Wych DDS

Livin’ It Up

Lexington County Chronicle & The Dispatch-News

Livin’ It Up

May 25, 2017 Retirement and Pre-Planning Guide • 3

Want to retire or start a new chapter in life?

By Jerry Bellune jerrybellune@yahoo.com

Retirement Guide and Pre-Planning Guide INDEX Want to retire or start a new chapter in life?..........................................3 When is it time for a loved one to move to assisted living?...............................4 Put your tech fears to rest.................................4 Using a home care agency vs. hiring directly ..................................................5 Let’s get healthy, no matter our age............6 3 tips for staying on the same financial page with your spouse...................6 Is an Ounce of Prevention Worth a Pound of Cure?....................................9 How to feel fabulous at 50...............................9 Planning your retirement..............................12 Investment and retirement glossary .......13 Social Security, Veteran’s benefits and wills.................................................................14 When is the best time to plan your final arrangements?...............................15

Copyright © 2017 Lexington County Chronicle & The Dispatch-News

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On a flight home from London 10 years ago, our son Mark asked if I ever planned to retire.

It was a good question.

I had not thought about it much. But it seemed like the right time.

At 70 years old, work had filled life since delivering newspapers as a kid.

I retired as editor of the Chronicle six months later.

Feeling bored, we started a book publishing company, and I finished writing a book that had been in the works and accepted speaking engagements.

Along came the Great Recession and it made sense for the Chronicle to have an extra pair of hands.

I returned to work, cheerfully, I will admit, without pay. I missed the work.

You may be feeling or anticipating that you will feel something like this.

More older Americans are working, and working more, than ever before, Pew Research Center finds.

Today’s older workers are spending more time on the job than did their peers in previous years, according to Pew’s analysis of employment data from the federal Bureau of Labor Statistics.

In May, 18.8% of Americans ages 65 and older, or nearly 9 million people, reported being employed full- or parttime, continuing a steady increase that dates to at least 2000 (which is as far back as we took our analysis). In May of that year, just 12.8% of 65-and-older Americans, or about 4 million people,

said they were working.

We used the employment-population ratio – the employed percentage of a given group’s total population (including those not actively looking for work) – to measure employment among different age groups. The steady increase in the share of working older Americans contrasts with the adult population as a whole, whose employment-population ratio fell sharply during the Great Recession and has yet to recover to pre-slump levels. In May 2000, according to the BLS’ seasonally unadjusted data, 64.4% of all adults had jobs, a figure that had drifted down to 62.5% by May 2008 as the recession took hold. The ratio bottomed out at 57.6% in January 2011, and as of last month stood at 59.9%.

Share of older Americans on the job has risen since 2000, even as overall employment has fallen The relatively strong presence of 65-and-older workers is found across age brackets: 65- to 69-year-olds, 70- to 74-year-olds, and those 75 and older. All are working at higher rates than they did in May 2008, the only age groups about which that can be said.

Though we took the current analysis only back to 2000, an earlier Center report noted that the labor force participation rate (that is, workers and those actively seeking employment as a share of a group’s total population) among older adults began rising in the mid-1980s, after declining for more than three decades.

Not only are more older Americans

working, more of them are working full time.

In May 2000, 46.1% of workers ages 65 and older were working fewer than 35 hours a week (the BLS’ cutoff for fulltime status). The part-time share has fallen steadily, so that by last month only 36.1% of 65-and-older workers were part-time.

The share of both older men and older women who are working has grown over time, but working during what are commonly thought of as retirement years remains a largely male phenomenon: Although less than 45% of the total 65-and-older population are men, they represent more than 55% of older workers. Older Asians (20.2%) and whites (19%) are somewhat more likely to be working than older blacks (16.7%).

What jobs older U.S. workers are more or less likely to perform Older Americans work in the various sectors of the U.S. economy in broadly similar patterns as the workforce as a whole, with a few notable exceptions.

For instance, they’re less likely to work in the accommodations/food service sector (only 3.4% did so last year, versus 7.1% of all workers).

And older workers are more likely to be in management, legal and community/social service occupations than the overall workforce, and less likely to be in computer and mathematical, food preparation, and construction-related occupations.

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4 • Livin’ It Up

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Lexington County Chronicle & The Dispatch-News

May 25, 2017 Retirement and Pre-Planning Guide

When is it time for a loved one to move to assisted living?

M

ost people want to live independently in their own home for as long as possible and who can blame them? But as the population continues to age, more and more people are finding it necessary to move to an assisted living community. Knowing when the best time to move is key to a successful transition and experience in a new home. Here are some things to look for if you think it may be time for a parent or loved one to considering moving to assisted living.

Are they still able to drive? If not, an assisted living community would provide transportation for medical appointments, shopping and social outings.

Has your loved one lost weight? They may say that they are eating, but you should check to make sure there is appropriate food in the refrigerator and cabinets. Do you find food that is spoiled or out of date? Many seniors forget to eat and sometimes it is too much trouble to prepare a nutritious meal. Three meals per day are provided at an assisted living community.

Do they remember to take their medications correctly? An assisted living community will administer medications to your loved one to ensure they are being taken properly.

Does your loved one wear the same

clothes over and over or wear soiled clothing? They may be forgetting to change clothes each day and may even be sleeping in their clothes. If they have an odor, they may also be forgetting to bathe regularly. Even if they are physically able to perform these tasks on their own, they may need someone to remind them to shower and change clothes.

Have you noticed bruises or other signs that your loved one may be having falls? People can fall anywhere but a pattern of falling is a good indicator that it may be time to consider a move to a safer environment.

Has your loved one cut back on social activities and interests? Maybe they used to enjoy reading or sewing but they are no longer able to perform these activities due to a cognitive impairment. If they are withdrawing from friends and family, they may be experiencing depression and would benefit from being around other people their own age on a daily basis.

Do you find unopened mail or bills that haven’t been paid? Can your loved one still manage a checking account?

Older adults are often vulnerable to scammers and should be able to make prudent decisions regarding finances if they are living alone.

Is your loved one able to handle

Let our family take care of your family

chores such as housekeeping and laundry? Whether it is a physical challenge or memory issue, if you notice a change in the cleanliness of the home, there is reason for concern. Assisted living communities will include housekeeping and laundry services as part of their basic care.

These are just a few things you should be aware of if you think it might be time for your loved one to move to an assisted living community. If you would like to learn more about assisted living call Keren at 803-808-3477, 800 N. Lake Drive Lexington, S.C. 29072

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Lexington County Chronicle & The Dispatch-News

Livin’ It Up

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May 25, 2017 Retirement and Pre-Planning Guide • 5

Put your tech fears to rest Using a Home Care Agency vs. Hiring Directly D R

By Ashley Ward ashleysward58@gmail.com

emaining at home with the assistance of a caregiver is the preferred living arrangement for many seniors and others who need some help but wish to retain their independence.

To find the right caregiver, most people turn to a full service home care agency which screens, hires and trains its employees. Families sometimes believe they will save some money by hiring a caregiver directly rather than working with an agency. When they hire someone directly, they become the employer and are fully responsible for their caregiver employee. There are important considerations that people should be aware of before making this important decision.

A home care agency that employs caregivers is bonded, insured and covers their employees under worker’s compensation. Independent (direct hire) caregivers who do not work for an agency do not carry their own liability insurance or worker’s compensation. If an accident or other incident occurs on the job, the employer (the client) would likely be responsible, costing the client hundreds or even thousands of dollars.

A home care agency will offer to provide a replacement if the caregiver cannot make it to work. If an independent

caregiver calls off or doesn’t show up, the client will need a back-up plan since there won’t be an agency involved to send a replacement.

Independent caregivers cannot be bonded. Bonding provides theft protection for the client.

If hiring directly, the client is the employer and is therefore responsible for training, disciplinary action and terminating the caregiver if necessary. If using a home care agency, the agency handles these responsibilities.

If hiring a caregiver directly, the client needs to be able to assess the quality and skill level of the caregiver. This is especially important if the client requires hands-on personal care, has limited mobility, dementia or Alzheimer’s. A quality home care agency trains and tests their caregivers, and can attest to their skill levels.

By law, the client (employer) is responsible for filing payroll taxes, tax forms, and verifying that the employee can legally work in the U.S. The client should carefully consider the risks of hiring a caregiver directly instead of working with a home care agency.

oes technology intimidate you?

I’ll tell you a not-so-little secret: I’m intimidated, too.

At least sometimes.

Anything can be intimidating when you aren’t used to how it works.

The difference is that I’ve learned that technology is pretty darned durable.

I know. It seems like your brand new iPad seems to go bonkers each time you touch it. Or that new cell phone has a ton of buttons.

But what if I told you I’ve had the same Android phone almost two years.

It has been dropped so many times that any time I hit it too hard, it will restart.

The camera lens is cracked but still takes great pictures.

How is it still working?

Other than being clumsy, I am careful with my phone.

It has a protective case on it so that it doesn’t take a direct hit from a fall.

I lock my phone. Others can’t pick it up and use it.

I’m talking to my seven-year-old monkey who thinks Mommy should have every game she’s ever loved on her phone.

How about my desktop computer that I’ve had more than five years.

It still works great. I run scans on a

regular basis and do cleanup of programs that I don’t use anymore.

What is the lesson here?

Go for it!

Use that new technology.

Be the kid in the candy store for the next two hours while you figure out how to dial on that new phone.

I know I do. Each new piece of technology I receive, I make sure to read the instructions through once.

Not cool, but very true.

Make sure you know everything about it and then proceed to push each button just to see what it’ll do. It is the only way to learn.

Can you break stuff?

Of course you can.

But what is worse? Having something new and exciting and being afraid to use it?

Or having that cool new toy make a weird sound that you need a grandson to fix?

My youngster isn’t even me.

It’s Google.

Anytime I’m stuck, I rely on message boards I find by searching my problem on Google. I know that I am not the first person to have the problem. Someone, somewhere will have already asked my question and gotten an answer that works.

I will then use that answer to fix my own problem.

6 • Livin’ It Up

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Lexington County Chronicle & The Dispatch-News

May 25, 2017 Retirement and Pre-Planning Guide

Let’s get healthy, no matter our age

By Lorraine Aiken

Getting fit can be a challenge and it’s difficult to determine where to start.

Additionally, sticking with your work out regimen past the first few runs on the treadmill can be challenging.

The whole list of reasons for skipping a work out doesn’t take away the immense benefit exercising has for you, no matter your age.

Regular exercise can control

weight, combat health conditions and diseases, improve mood, boost energy, promote better sleep and be enjoyable to do with others.

All of these benefits of exercising, especially being enjoyable, we have surely found at Wellmore of Lexington.

Wellmore of Lexington Wellmore is redefined the way people think about healthcare and aging through wellness.

As a multi-level care community with Assisted Living, Memory Care, Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation, our members have varying levels of wellness and fitness capability.

This doesn’t stop us from truly believing that any of our members, regardless of age or condition, can improve their quality of life.

Our care approach is balanced, ensuring our mem-

bers’ physical, emotional, and social health is enhanced at our community so they can continue to enjoy life to the fullest.

Through our award-winning Wellness Programs that are specifically designed for adults over 65 and are continuously proving that age is not a limitation on regular exercise.

Our specialized wellness classes are also convenient and fun to attend with friends.

Purpose-Based Programs Taking a tour of the State Of The Art Wellness Center, you will find members attending a Strength and Balance class, soothing muscles in our heated therapy pool, improving their breathing in a seated yoga class, and much, much more.

Wellmore is founded on the principle of PurposeBased Wellness Programming that are designed for

older adults to counter the effects of chronic diseases and/or afflictions common in the later stages of life.

Common ailments and chronic diseases such as: • Poor flexibility & balance • Low immune function • High blood pressure • Low bone density • Poor heart health • Poor digestion function • Alzheimer’s disease • Arthritis • Dementia • Diabetes • Parkinson’s disease • Heart disease • Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) Through regular participation our programs have been proven to help alleviate, manage or prevent many of these ailments! No wonder we won the 2012 Best of the Best Wellness Program Award by Argentum (formerly ALFA).

To learn more about Wellmore of Lexington, visit our website at Well-More.com.

3 tips for staying on the same financial page with your spouse

By Dan Carter

P

lenty of things can kill the romance in a relationship.

But traditionally, money and all the complications that come with it sit near the top of the list.

“I’ve worked with hundreds of married clients and have seen a lot of spending habits over the years, both good and bad,” says Dan Carter, an Investment Advisor Representative for Safeguard Investment Advisory Group (www.safeguardinvestment.com).

“There’s no doubt that when the numbers in the bank account start dropping, the tempers can start flaring.”

Carter recalls that when he and his wife were planning their wedding, the minister declined to perform the ceremony unless they met with him three times beforehand.

“Guess what he talked about – money,” Carter says. “He said money can

cause a lot of problems in a marriage.

When the wolves are at the door, couples stress, argue, and often break up.”

In fact, 20% of couples say that financial decisions cause tension in their relationships every day, and 31% say money issues lead to stress weekly, according to a survey by the American Institute of CPAs and the Ad Council.

The key is for couples to get on the same page about money, Carter says.

Tensions can’t help but grow if one spouse is extraordinarily frugal while the other is a spendthrift. He suggests: • Sit down and talk about what is important. If a husband’s financial goals and a wife’s financial goals are at odds, trouble is inevitable. He might want to stash more away for retirement. Her chief concern might be saving enough to help the kids through college. The important thing is that each understands the other’s priorities and concerns, and then they

can work from there, Carter says.

• Understand that there must be a balance. Some couples spend recklessly, racking up massive credit-card debt, while others go to the opposite extreme, fearful of parting with money for anything other than basic necessities. Be disciplined, but treat yourselves once in a while, Carter says. An occasional splurge isn’t a bad thing. Couples can benefit from a dinner at a nice restaurant or a weekend trip to the beach.

“The problem is when splurging becomes the norm,” Carter says. “But life shouldn’t just be one dreary chore after another. You do need to live a little.”

• Ignore the Joneses. Let your neighbors, relatives and co-workers do what they do, buying unnecessarily expensive cars, living in houses they can’t afford and traveling to exotic destinations that are really outside their budgets. Enjoy life, but live within your means.

“There are plenty of sayings about

money, like ‘money can’t buy you love’ and ‘the love of money is the root of all evil,’ ” Carter says. “Those sayings may contain a little truth, but I’d say money also can be a useful tool, a very positive thing. If you use it wisely, it can enhance your life and your loved ones’ lives, too.”

About Dan Carter Dan Carter, an Investment Advisor Representative for Safeguard Investment Advisory Group (www.safeguardinvestment.com), has 18 years experience in the insurance and estate planning industry. Carter also is the radio host for a financial radio program, “The Big Picture Radio Show,” on KVTA 1590, Ventura County’s Gold Coast “News Talk” station. Carter holds California Life-Only and Accident and Health licenses (#0C32681), and holds a Series 65 license, and is registered through the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA).

Lexington County Chronicle & The Dispatch-News

Livin’ It Up

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May 25, 2017 Retirement and Pre-Planning Guide • 7

Embracing life.

A move to Wellmore of Lexington means access to Assisted Living, Memory Care, Skilled Nursing and Rehab services all under one roof. You will never have to go through a move again.

While we have all the bells and whistles found in traditional assisted living, memory care, skilled nursing and short-term rehab communities, our approach is distinctly different. At Wellmore, we don’t warehouse people – we celebrate them!

Reserve your tour today.

8 • Livin’ It Up

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May 25, 2017 Retirement and Pre-Planning Guide

Lexington County Chronicle & The Dispatch-News

The Care They Need.

The Comfort They Deserve.

Carroll Campbell Place is specially designed for the care, comfort and safety of residents with Alzheimer’s and related dementia.

Our beautiful skilled nursing facility provides the look and feel of home.

Here you’ll find highly qualified nurses and staff who understand your family member’s unique needs. We provide round-the-clock care in a compassionate and dignified manner. Lush, secure gardens with tranquil waterfalls and fountains allow residents the freedom to enjoy the outdoors in a protected environment.

802 Old Cherokee Road Lexington, SC 29072 CarrollCampbellPlace.com

Let us help you find the care and comfort you need at Carroll Campbell Place. For more information, call (803) 359-5181.

Livin’ It Up

Lexington County Chronicle & The Dispatch-News

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May 25, 2017 Retirement and Pre-Planning Guide • 9

Is an Ounce of Prevention Worth a Pound of Cure?

The importance of checkups with your primary physician

M

any adults think a yearly checkup isn’t really necessary, especially when they consider themselves to be healthy, but periodic physical exams should be part of everyone’s health care.

A physical exam can help to determine if you are as healthy as you feel or catch health problems before they become serious. A checkup also helps you and your primary care provider come up with a care plan for a longer, healthier life.

“Annual checkups are a good time to discuss your overall health, diet and family histo-

By Rachel Maxwell

ry, which may indicate a need for earlier screenings. A lot of things can change in a year.

People gain and lose weight, go through emotional changes – all of it can affect their health,” said Sarah Cottingham, MD, at Palmetto Cottingham Family Medicine, a Lexington Medical Center physician practice.

An annual physical for an adult can include things such as: • A comprehensive physical exam catered to your age, gender and specific risk factors; • electrocardiogram to check for heart health; • examination of respiratory health;

• skin screening to check for dermatological health; • lab tests, including blood count and cholesterol; • body mass index testing; • and screenings for ageand gender-appropriate cancer risk factors.

During a child’s annual checkup, a doctor may look at: • His or her overall growth and development; • missed immunizations or needed booster shots; • dental, vision, speech or hearing issues; and • cholesterol, blood count, urine, blood sugar and/or scoliosis results.

“An annual physical isn’t just getting a full-body exam. You may need labs tests, vaccina-

tions and cancer screenings, which depend on age and risk factors. Even if you eat well and exercise, you could still have high cholesterol or be at risk for developing diabetes. We can’t know if you have these conditions if we aren’t checking for them,” said Dr. Cottingham.

Apart from cancer and other screenings, such as diabetes and heart disease, a physical exam helps patients answer questions about their health and lifestyle, and get advice on how to lead the healthiest lifestyle possible.

It’s also an opportunity to tell your doctor about any medical conditions or diseases within your family. Certain diseases

and medical conditions can be hereditary, and families can pass on lifestyle habits.

People who live, play and eat together influence each other’s attitudes toward smoking, exercise, weight and many other factors that influence your health.

For Dr. Cottingham, annual checkups are a great way to help her patients have good quality of life along with quantity of life.

“If we can catch high cholesterol and elevated blood sugars early and make lifestyle changes or treat with medicine, we can significantly decrease the risk of developing heart disease, stroke, kidney disease and more.”

How to feel fabulous at 50

CenterFit, Lexington

I

was never a standout athlete or excessively fit in my early years.

However, I’m in better shape now than I was 25 years ago. I had a small

revelation in my mid-thirties and of all things, having twins started me on my journey to vibrant health.

Shortly after I was told that I was carrying not one, but two babies at the age of 35 I decided that I needed to bring my “A Game” to this parenting thing.

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Rachel Maxwell

Center Fit

803.240.5372 109 Fabrister Lane | Lexington | www.CenterFit.net

We already had two little boys, and I had a pretty good idea about what was about to happen.

I decided I was not going to fade away and let these kids run circles around me. I wanted to be a mom who was out in the mix, surfing with the kids on those family beach trips; not sitting on the beach hiding under a moo-moo.

Great nutrition, which I discovered during my twin pregnancy, has played a large role in my journey toward optimal health.

A friend told me about a special diet for pregnancy with multiples. That drastically improved my eating habits, even though my doctor said it wouldn’t make much difference.

All of my vitals were better than they were with my first two pregnancies.

Our twins were born healthy, robust and full-term and I had a brand-new perspective on the power of whole foods, clean eating and high quality nutritional supplements.

Exercise has been a big part of staying healthy and vibrant for me.

I discovered the power of regular exercise when I joined a gym just to put the babies in the nursery and take a shower in peace.

I took a Pilates class that was offered at the gym one day and completely fell in love with it. I had no idea that Pilates was the exercise system that I had been

looking for all along.

Pilates strengthened and transformed my body quickly.

My husband suggested, “If you’re going to spend all of that time and money taking Pilates, why don’t you just teach and get paid for doing it?”

I became a certified Pilates instructor and have been teaching ever since.

I eventually became a personal trainer and opened up my current business, CenterFit in Lexington. I offer personal training and small group classes.

A huge benefit of running my business is that part of my daily routine is training and staying in great shape.

I love sharing what I’ve learned about the power of good nutrition and exercise with others.

And I am on a mission to help ordinary people discover how much better you can feel when you decide to make your own health a priority.

I feel great at age fifty and I’m still surfing with the kids every chance I get.

I feel very blessed to be entering this next phase of life with a strong, healthy body.

It is my hope to help others discover the incredible difference that nutrition and exercise can make for them.

Rachel Maxwell is the owner and head fitness coach at CenterFit in Lexington.

You can contact her at http://www.centerfit.net/contact-us/

10 • Livin’ It Up

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May 25, 2017 Retirement and Pre-Planning Guide

Lexington County Chronicle & The Dispatch-News

Stop Your Neuropathy Pain Now! Dear friend, If you’re suffering from a medical condition called Peripheral Neuropathy and you’re ready to STOP the PAIN, make sure you read this. Peripheral Neuropathy is a terrible disease that is misdiagnosed by a lot of the medical community.

So What Is Peripheral Neuropathy?

Peripheral Neuropathy refers to a disease that results when your nerves, the ones that connect to your brain and spinal cord are damaged and diseased.

Who Is Affected?

Unfortunately, it affects millions of people every year and the incidence of peripheral neuropathy is actually getting worse. The symptoms for this disease are NOT easily spotted if the doctor is not on their toes and he misdiagnoses it. The reason? There are over 100 different types of peripheral neuropathy.

What Are The Symptoms?

You can have any number of symptoms. These symptoms are related to the type of nerve affected and can be seen over a period of weeks, or even years.

Muscle weakness is the most common symptom of nerve damage. Other symptoms may include: painful cramps and uncontrolled muscle twitching visible under the skin, muscle loss, bone degeneration, and changes in the skin, hair, and nails. These more general degenerative changes can result from nerve fiber loss.

What Causes It? Vitamin deficiencies, alcohol, toxins, shingles, AIDS, heredity, cancer therapy drugs, statin drugs, even a severe trauma or injury, just to name a few.

So What Can I Do? If you’re at the end of your rope and you’re tired of spending money on medical care with little or no results, call me today. I’ll discuss your full medical history and complete all the necessary exams. I’m going to tell you what your problem is, what it’s stemming from, and how to take care of it. But you finally have to make up your mind that you want to get some help.

Who Is Dr. Gooldy in Lexington County?

I am a practicing chiropractic physician in Lexington, SC. I’m amazed at how many people have peripheral neuropathy and even myofascial pain and don’t know what to do about it.

What Your Neighbors Are Saying…

“I’ve had Neuropathy pain for years, and the other doctors told me that nothing could be done… well, thanks to Dr. Gooldy, I’m getting feeling back in my feet and my chronic foot pain has disappeared!” ~R. Vander Dussen, Swansea “When I first came in here, my feet and my legs were bothering me and my back. I had three treatments, and my legs feel better, and my feet feel wonderful. I appreciate the help I got here.” ~Angela, Lexington, SC So How Much Does This Cost?

Here’s what I want you to do. Call the office right now and tell my staff you want the special Lexington County Resident OFFER. Once you’ve done that, I’ll give you a non invasive “nerve restoration examination.” This is a specialized treatment program to help your neuropathy pain, and in the meantime to also help any MYOFASCIAL pain you may be experiencing.

One thing is, you’ll love the results.

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~CALL NOW~ Dr. David Gooldy

(803) 462-5458

Lexington County Chronicle & The Dispatch-News

Livin’ It Up

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May 25, 2017 Retirement and Pre-Planning Guide • 11

How to stay out of pain at any age

By David Gooldy docgooldy@gmail.com

P

ain is personal.

Only you can truly feel your pain.

Others just see how it affects you.

These telltale signs are your mood, your posture, the way you walk or by the sounds you make.

It’s part of life.

Acute pain is when something just happens.

I think of pain as a warning device like a smoke detector. Where there’s smoke there’s fire. Something that should not be ignored.

Most pain is attributed to the joints and muscle. Significant pain can be the result of systems failures such as a heart attack or stroke.

The best offense is a good defense. Do this by healthy habits and maintenance.

However we have to deal with the effects of our jobs, sports injuries, obesity or overall genetics.

Many deal with pain with drugs or even surgery. Drugs don’t really solve the problem. They only cover up the symptoms.

Surgeries minimal scarring these days range from removing parts, adding devices to deadening the body. The outcomes for range from good to worse.

Where to start

How can you start being pain free?

There are and will continue to be multiple claims to help with pain.

I cannot begin to tell you about all of them. Here are my top 10 which I am familiar with and have seen extraordinary results.

1. Size reduction Getting off a few inches would do you some good. It’s about being healthier and fitter and not necessarily by weight alone.

Muscle weighs more than fat. Losing weight is misunderstood. Success or failure is based on the scale.

2. Exercise

bricants for the joints.

Make sure your medications are not working against each other.

4. Spinal problems An unbalanced or misaligned spine can be the cause if your pain.

Chiropractors are best at finding and correcting the ‘subluxations’ of the vertebrae which could impinge or ‘pinch’ the nerves.

Some folks are afraid of the Greco wrestling hands of these doctors but their touch and care precisely remove the interference in your nervous system.

The science of chiropractic has come far and is advanced using computers.

Instruments instead of hands can be used to deliver the correction with precision and minimal force for those faint of heart.

I know that sends a shiver of fear.

Put some fun in your function. This can range from walking, dancing or even water aerobics.

Pool therapy helps to decrease impact on your joints by using buoyancy to take the pressure off your frame while you exercise against the resistance of the water.

5. Acupuncture

3. Check medications

6. Light therapy

They can be the cause of your pain.

Always check to make sure that the side effects of what you’re taking don’t include joint pain or muscle aches. Cholesterol medications tend to have the side effect of joint pain while reducing the blood cholesterol levels which act as lu-

This technology has been developed over the last few decades using light to stimulate the cells of the body.

Treatments range from a cold laser to a deep penetrating laser which goes deep to help with the healing process.

Some lights have even helped patients

This form of pain relief uses fine needles to stimulate the meridians of the body opening the pathway for the Chi to travel.

lose inches of fat quickly.

7. Vibration therapy Benefits which can include improved breathing, increased muscle tone and strength, blood circulation, lymphatic drainage and bone density increase.

8. Magnetic healing This therapy has been around for centuries. This is based on the electric charge of our bodies and the healthy component of a functioning self.

It could range from wearing magnetic garments to pull stations delivering a magnetic pulse through your body charging the cells to helpthem to function at their optimum.

9. Brain-based wellness Studies have been very positive when it comes to mapping and subjecting the brain to positive reinforcements coupled with visual and vestibular stimuli.

10. Never stop Keep going! Enjoy life with family and friends.

Get out and meet new people. It’s remarkable what we can do with the support and understanding of those we love and care about.

Dr. David Gooldy practices chiropractic at White Knoll Family Wellness on S.C. 6 south of Lexington.

Technology can make your life better, easier

By Ashley Ward ashleysward58@gmail.com

You can even attach a keyboard.

es, I know.

Technology is constantly advancing and changing.

Keeping up with it can seem intimidating.

Sometimes it advances so fast that it feels like you’re standing in the security line watching your flight depart.

Believe me, old dogs —and pretty ladies — can learn new tricks.

I know you’re thinking, it’s easy for me, a reasonably young person, to say that. Let’s look at a few technological advances that even seniors can use.

Tablets

Smart phones are similar to tablets with apps you can get to help you.

Smart phones provide an easy one stop location for many things, like medication reminders, voice recognition and large type to read text messages. Or it will read the text to you.

I even keep a selection of books on my phone for when I am waiting for someone. There is a place for notes.

Almost all come with map software and GPS access. So if you get lost, you can find your way home.

And don’t forget about fitness apps to keep fit.

Tablets are simple, easy to use small computers.

There are apps (applications) that help with memory and brain function.

You can easily take and store photos.

You can make the type as big as you need.

They are lightweight and easy to hold.

Skype is a free video calling software that’s easy to set up and use.

You can install it on any smart phone, tablet or computer to keep up with kids and grandkids who live elsewhere that you don’t get to see that often.

As long as you are calling from a

Y

Smart phones

Skype

Skype program to a Skype program it doesn’t cost you a thing.

Video & computer games No, I am not crazy.

Studies have shown that people who play computer games such as MMORPGs (Massively Multiplayer Online Role Playing Games) will help your reaction time and cognitive functions.

First person shooter games on consoles do the same thing.

The next time the kids come over, be the coolest granny in the world and break out the Xbox and play with them.

Wii games are even better because they use the movement of your body to control the game.

This gets you up and moving. Some senior centers have put Wii games in for exercise.

You can read Ashley Ward’s Tech Talk in the Lexington County Chronicle or The Lake Murray Fish Wrapper each week. Email her your questions at ashleysward58@gmail.com

12 • Livin’ It Up

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May 25, 2017 Retirement and Pre-Planning Guide

Lexington County Chronicle & The Dispatch-News

Planning your Retirement Senator Joe Wilson

Planning for retirement is a challenge and too many families are struggling to save for the future. When Roxanne and I first started raising our family, we were grateful that we had access to affordable financial advice. Unfortunately, the fiduciary rule, a ridiculous 1,023 page Obama-era regulation, threatens to increase the cost of financial advice and retirement planning for families across South Carolina.

Earlier this year, I introduced the Protecting American Families Retirement Advice Act, legislation that would delay the implementation of this regulation and give the new Administration adequate time for evaluation. I was grateful that earlier this month, President Trump’s Department of Labor has delayed the harmful regulation from taking effect.

In Congress, I also fight for programs for seniors and families. We’ve seen healthcare costs skyrocket in South Carolina placing a greater burden on seniors. Nearly 224,000 South Carolinians depend on the Medicare Advantage - a program that is privately run and typically has lower rates than standard Medicare. I’ve urged the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services to protect the Medicare Advantage program and maintain stable coverage options for millions of seniors, families, and individuals with disabilities.

Every day I fight in Congress to protect our seniors from unworkable regulations, provide access to affordable healthcare, and ensure the rights of families to plan for their future, supporting limited government and expanded freedom. I am grateful to represent you in Congress.

Lexington County Chronicle & The Dispatch-News

Livin’ It Up

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May 25, 2017 Retirement and Pre-Planning Guide • 13

Importance of a Will

If you die without a Will, state law and the courts determine who will administer your estate, handle financial matters and act as guardian for your minor children. With a Will, you can choose.

In some instances, joint ownership of property may not be a good substitute for a carefully drafted Will. As a result of a common accident, both you and your spouse may die before the survivor has had an opportunity to execute a proper Will. Your property will pass according to state law.

The law is very exacting in its requirements with respect to the publications, signing and witnessing of Wills. It is recommended that this matter be handled by a competent attorney. Homemade Wills may not stand up in court.

You should review your Will every few years, particularly if you have moved or your family situation has changed since you last executed a Will. State laws vary as to formal requirements and as to the rights of children and grandchildren born after a Will was executed.

I have a Will: Yes No Date of Will: __________________________________________________________ Location of Will: _________________________________________________________ Executor/Executrix: Name: ____________________________________________ Address: __________________________________________ City: ________________________State:____Zip:__________ Phone: ____________________________________________ Prepared by (attorney): ____________________________________________________ Address: __________________________________________ City: _________________________State:____Zip: _________ Phone: ___________________________________________

General Information VITAL STATS Name:

____________________________________________________

Address: ____________________________________________________ City, State, Zip:

____________________________________________________

Phone:

____________________________________________________

Sex:

Male Female

Race:

____________________________________

Social Security Number: _______—_______—___________ Place of Birth:

______________________________________________

(City, County, State Country)

Marital Status:

_____________(Date)

Never Married Widowed Divorced

Name of Surviving Spouse: _______ _____________________________________

(include maiden name if wife)

Occupation: __________________________Type of Industry: ______ __________ Employer: __________________________________________________________ Highest Education: ___________________________________________________ Degree(s): __________________________________________________________

Life Insurance Benefits Location of Policy/Policies: ___________________________________________________ Type: Term Whole Life Universal Group Other:________________ Name of Company _________________________________________________________ Policy #: _____________________ Beneficiary: ___________________________________ Type: Term Whole Life Universal Group Other:________________ Name of Company _________________________________________________________ Policy #: _____________________ Beneficiary: ___________________________________ Type: Term Whole Life Universal Group Other:________________ Name of Company _________________________________________________________ Policy #: _____________________ Beneficiary: ___________________________________

ARMED FORCES Branch of Service: ___________________________Service Serial #____________ Date Entered Service: _________________________Place: ___________________ Type of Separation of Discharge of Service: _______________________________ Type of Separation or Discharge of Service: ___________________Date: _______ Place of Separation: __________________________________________________ Location of Military Discharge Papers (DD214): ____________________________ Highest grade, rank or rating received: ___________________________________ Wars/Conflicts Served: ________________________________________________ Additional Information: _______________________________________________ ___________________________________________________________________

(Medals, Honors, Citations)

Credit Cards Visa

MasterCard

Am. Express Discover Other:________________

Account #: ______________________________ Expiration Date: ____________________ Visa

MasterCard

Am. Express Discover Other:________________

Account #: ______________________________ Expiration Date: ____________________ Visa

MasterCard

Am. Express Discover Other:________________

Father's Name: ___________________________Place of birth: _______________

Account #: ______________________________ Expiration Date: ____________________

Mother's Maiden Name _____________________Place of birth:_______________

Visa

Contact Person Completing Arrangements

Account #: ______________________________ Expiration Date: ____________________

Name: _____________________________________________________________

Visa

Phone: ____________________________________________________________

Account #: ______________________________ Expiration Date: ____________________

MasterCard MasterCard

Am. Express Discover Other:________________ Am. Express Discover Other:________________

14 • Livin’ It Up

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Lexington County Chronicle & The Dispatch-News

May 25, 2017 Retirement and Pre-Planning Guide

Social Security Information

Real Estate Holdings

A lump sum payment may be made when an eligible person dies. This payment can only be made if there is an eligible surviving widow, widower or entitled child. Also, survivor's checks may go to certain members of a worker's family.

To facilitate receiving Social Security Benefits, you will need to the following when you contact your Social Security Office:

Description: _______________________________________________________________

 Social Security Number  Marriage License  Children's Birth Certificates  W2 for the previous two years

 Proof of widow(er)'s age if 62

years or older  Certified Copy of Death Certificate

An application for the lump sum death payments usually must be made within two years after the worker's death. Don't delay applying because you don't have all the proof of information. The people in the Social Security Office will tell you about other proof of information that can be used when you apply.

It is a good idea to check your record every three years to make sure that earnings are being correctly reported to your record.

Social Security Administration Toll-Free Number: 1-800-772-1213 www.ssa.gov

Final Instructions

Name of receiving funeral home: ______________________________________________ Address: __________________________________________________________________ City, State, Zip:_____________________________________________________________ Phone: ___________________________________________________________________ Pallbearers' Name: __________________________________________________________ Relationship: _______________________________ Phone: _________________________ Pallbearers' Name: __________________________________________________________ Relationship: _______________________________ Phone: _________________________ Pallbearers' Name: __________________________________________________________ Relationship: _______________________________ Phone: _________________________ Pallbearers' Name: __________________________________________________________ Relationship: _______________________________ Phone: _________________________ Pallbearers' Name: __________________________________________________________ Relationship: _______________________________ Phone: _________________________ Pallbearers' Name: __________________________________________________________ Relationship: _______________________________ Phone: _________________________ Pallbearers' Name: __________________________________________________________ Relationship: _______________________________ Phone: _________________________ Pallbearers' Name: __________________________________________________________ Relationship: _______________________________ Phone: _________________________ Special instructions, notes, awards, pictures, obituary requests, items to be placed with remains: __________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________ _________________________________________________________________________

Address: __________________________________________________________________ Deed Location: ____________________________________________________________ Description: _______________________________________________________________ Address: __________________________________________________________________ Deed Location: ____________________________________________________________

Veteran's Burial Benefits VETERAN'S BURIAL ALLOWANCE

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) furnishes a partial reimbursement of eligible veterans' burial and funeral costs. When the cause of death is service-related, the reimbursement is generally described as two payments: (1) a burial and funeral expense allowance, and (2) a plot interment allowance. You may be entitled to a VA burial allowance if: • You paid for a veteran's burial or funeral AND • You have not been reimbursed by another government agency or some other source, such as the deceased veteran's employer AND • The veteran was discharged under conditions other than dishonorable. In addition,

at least one of the following conditions must be met: • The veteran died because of a service-related disability OR • The veteran was getting VA pension or compensation at the time of death OR • The veteran was entitled to receive VA pension or compensation but decided not to reduce his/her military retirement or disability pay OR • The veteran died in a VA hospital or while in a nursing home under VA contract.

Service-related death. The VA will pay an allowance toward burial and funeral expenses, and a plot insert allowance.

If the death happened while the veteran was in a VA hospital or under contracted, the cost of moving the deceased may be reimbursed.

Livin’ It Up

Lexington County Chronicle & The Dispatch-News

Y

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May 25, 2017 Retirement and Pre-Planning Guide • 15

When is the Best Time to Plan Your Final Arrangements?

our daughter comes to you saying that she is getting married in three days. Can you imagine planning a wedding in just a few days? Then, why leave the planning of your ultimate celebration to the last minute?

Planning your own end of life celebration can be one of the most freeing moments. Several reasons include: 1) You want to ease the burden on your family. If your wishes are unknown when you die, they will be faced with making difficult decisions at a trying time. Will they know if you wish to be buried or cremated? Will they agree on an open or closed casket? Will they agree on how much to spend? Confusion and disagreements are common occurrences when there is no plan to follow.

You may even want to do a celebration before your physical death, in order to participate in your own unique gathering.

2) You want to assume the financial responsibility for your celebration. Planning ahead enables you to make financial arrangements to cover your celebra-

tion costs. Even if you are leaving behind sufficient money, will your survivors be able to access it at the time of your death?

3) You want your family to have the benefit of a meaningful celebration. A celebration is an important event for a grieving family. Psychologically, it provides an acknowledgement of the loss and enables the family to begin the healing process. It is difficult to make the celebration the best it can be when forced to plan it in a short time.

4) You want your final wishes to be followed. If you have specific preferences for the disposition of your remains and the nature of your celebration services, you can clearly express them in your celebration plan. You may have a preference for burial or cremation, the epitaph on your headstone, or the music and readings at your celebration. Or you may not want a celebration ceremony.

Whatever your wishes, they need to be set forth in your plan.

5) You want to be self-reliant and have your affairs in order at the end of your

Rhumba? Cha-Cha? Electric Slide? Check, check check. She knew that nothing turned a mood around like dancing.

The Dancing Queen

life. Taking care of your end of life celebration is a thoughtful and caring thing to do for your family; and you can be assured that they will appreciate that your care for them continues after you are gone.

Any time is a good time to plan your celebration … except at the time of death.

Remember hFS that way, with a celebration as unique and wonderful as The was.

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No ordinary life. No ordinary funeral.

Stop in to experience ShareLife today!

200 State Street West Columbia, SC (803)791-0650

4720 Augusta Road Lexington, SC (803)996-1023

845 Leesburg Road Columbia, SC (803)776-1092

ThompsonsFuneral.com

16 • Livin’ It Up

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May 25, 2017 Retirement and Pre-Planning Guide

Lexington County Chronicle & The Dispatch-News

Caughman-Harman Funeral Home - Lexington Chapel Caughman-Harman Funeral Home - Lexington Chapel resides in a beautiful pre-Civil War structure that was built in 1850 (formerly known as the John Meetze House) and has been an important part of the greater Lexington County community.

We are committed to exceeding expectations and delivering a standard of service that is 100% guaranteed. With our high level of service and experienced staff, we offer families the convenience of a funeral home, crematory, cemeteries and pre-arranging. We pride ourselves on having the first crematory in South Carolina and on being the only CANA-certified crematory in the Midlands. We are one of the few funeral service providers that offer funeral, crematory and cemetery services under one roof. This means that we can provide caring services for all your service needs.

We work with families to help create unique, memorable tributes because we believe that each service should reflect the special qualities of the individual you are honoring. Our commitment to exceptional services encompasses a variety of functions including personalized

services, military honors, catering, and dove-release and monument sales.

All of our services are designed to help our client families through one of the most personal and challenging stages of life. We understand losing a loved one is an emotional and difficult experience, and we are committed to helping our client families with compassionate, professional and personal service.

Today, we are proud to be a member of the Dignity Memorial® network of more than 1 ,800 funeral, cremation and cemetery service providers. When you choose a Dignity Memorial provider, you not only receive the compassionate care you expect from a locally operated establishment, but also the value you deserve from the largest and most trusted network of funeral, cremation and memorialization providers.

Please contact us if you need immediate assistance, or if you would like more information about our services.

Caughman-Harman Funeral Home — Lexington Chapel 503 N. Lake Dr. Lexington, SC 29072 | 803-359-6118 | www.caughmanlexington.com