Northwest Boomer and Senior News Linn Benton Edition November 2016 by Northwest50Plus

Making seasonal changes LINN & BENTON COUNTIES EDITION NOVEMBER 2016 • FREE!

■ Updates for any budget start with knowing what’s right for you

“When you come home, you feel like you are on vacation. Your home feels festive. It lifts your spirit.” Dulce Roberto

Photo by Shelly Pincock/Elle M Photography

interior designer

INSIDE

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

SEE WHAT’S COMING UP IN NOVEMBER

Page 9

1-877-357-2430 • nwboomerandseniornews.com

DIGGIN’ IT

HEALTHY VIBES

Page 4

Page 10

NO RAIN? NO WORRIES

IN SYNC WITH SLEEP

Oregon’s oldest & largest boomer and senior publication

Your home, and the holiday spirit 2 LINN-BENTON EDITION

NW BOOMER & SENIOR NEWS • NOVEMBER 2016

By MAGGI WHITE BOOMER & SENIOR NEWS

Making seasonal changes to your home is more than just getting out the Christmas decorations. Interior designer Dulce Roberto says making seasonal changes to your home’s interior is no different than wardrobe changes when summer turns to fall, and fall turns to winter — you’re taking out your gloves and coats, and putting away flip flops and short-sleeve shirts. In the home, it’s time to add colorful, textured layers, Roberto says. It’s time for a festive approach, and for accessories that shimmer. And who doesn’t like to show off the changes they’ve made in their homes? Take the time to entertain for those fall and winter holidays. Roberto, who was born in Brazil and now advises clients in Portland and around the world through Du Interiors, sees fall and winter as “creating a nest.” She recommends bringing out the velvets and heavier drapes, textured pillows, candlelight, and area rugs you may have folded up and put away during the warmer months. But avoid trends that won’t fit your home décor, or find yourself buying something

Photo by Shelly Pincock/Elle M Photography

Combine gold and silver into your home decorating for real flair, especially when setting up a drink station to use while entertaining family and friends. just because it looked good in someone else’s home. “It may not go with all your elements and you’ll end up not using it,” Roberto says. Instead, think about how you buy clothes. “You buy because you fell in love with the way something looked and

you knew, before you tried it on, you wanted it,” she says, adding that you should feel that you can’t wait to get home to use these decorative items. One trend to be aware of is brushstroke patterns, which is showing up in area rugs, dishes, clothes and art. An-

other trend is reclaimed woodgrain patterns that evoke a Northwest feel. This trend, she says, is showing up in accent walls, hallways and fireplaces in either planks of wood or wallpaper that looks the same. It’s also in ceramic floor tiling. “A lot of the tile imitates

wood,” Roberto says. “It is seen all over this year’s Street of Dreams. This look brings nature into your home and is spreading globally. I had a call from someone in England liking that organic look.” When it comes to holiday decorating, Roberto leans toward gold and silver. If you have the budget, she says, updates to hardware and lighting make your home look dressy, like putting on a piece of jewelry. Gold and silver also are showing up in appliances. “You can mix gold and silver,” she says. If you can’t spend as much, add gold and silver in Christmas tree ornaments or on the front door with a big bow attached to a bouquet of wooden branches turned upside down. Look at home discount stores, like Home Goods or Target. For a more do-it-yourself look, Roberto recommends a trip to the craft store to purchase gold and silver foil. “You can create a whole new look,” she says, “by putting candles everywhere. When I wake up, before I do anything, I turn on battery-operated candles (including scented ones) in the bathroom.” Candles are always the third element of any interior design in which the rule is to

See HOME p. 3

Come to Timberhill Place Where Help is Always Available Should You Need It

Enjoy your own private apartment surrounded by your favoritie things. Meet new friends and get all the help you need from our qualified staff, 24-hours each day.

Timberhill Place provides three delicious meals each day, weekly housekeeping and linen services, scheduled transportation, all utilities and a full range of personal services. All this in a beautiful building, with a monthly rent you’ll find surprisingly affordable. Call 541-753-1488 for more information and a personal tour. Come discover Assisted Living at Timberhill Place!

989 Spruce Avenue in Corvallis

Vol. 18 - Number 11 Oregon’s oldest & largest 50+ publication General Manager Patty Gilbert pgilbert@nwseniornews.com Managing Editor - All Editions Michelle Te mte@nwseniornews.com Graphics/Production - All Editions Pam Cooley-Newberry pcooley@nwseniornews.com Accounting - Barb Calvisky bcalvisky@nwseniornews.com Circulation pgilbert@nwseniornews.com

4 Editions serving Boomers and Seniors: Linn-Benton, Marion-Polk, Metro Portland and Lane 4120 River Road N., Keizer, OR 97303 503-304-1323 / 1-877-357-2430 FAX 503-304-5394 Email: nwsn@nwseniornews.com Subscriptions: $22/year Visit us online: NWBoomerandSeniorNews.com

Northwest BOOMER & SENIOR NEWS is published monthly and locally owned and operated by Eagle Newspapers, Inc. The entire contents of this publication are copyrighted by Northwest Boomer and Senior News. Any use of all or any part of this publication is prohibited without written consent of the publisher. This publication is printed using soy-based inks on paper with post-consumer recycled content. No VOCs are released into the atmosphere.

Advertising Executives Portland/Metro/Vancouver Edition Joan Riley: joan4freedom@comcast.net

Marion-Polk/Coast Edition Clark Seeley: cseeley@nwseniornews.com Jack Wallrich: jackwallrich@comcast.net

Linn-Benton Edition Clark Seeley cseeley@nwseniornews.com Jack Wallrich: jackwallrich@comcast.net Lane Edition Jo Schechter josuccess@comcast.net Contributing Writers: Maggi White, Pat Snider, Grace Peterson, Barry Finnemore, Deb Allen, Mary Owen, Dan Christopher, Vanessa Salvia

NOVEMBER 2016 • www.nwboomerandseniornews.com

HOME CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2

display objects in threes or fives – like pillows, which are another way to change a look for all budgets. Roberto likes combining big, chunky candles with fresh flowers on her counters.

Another craft store find is spray paint, which can be used to easily add a seasonal color theme to your home. But be consistent with your colors, she advises. Last year, Roberto chose to use white and gold. Another year, she used apple-green colored ornaments on her Christmas tree with the color theme

carried out on a table runner and new glasses that she used all the way through January. And in another year, the theme in her home was light lavender to eggplant, carried out with ribbons on the tree and book covers. If you prefer the traditional red and green in December, Roberto recommends introducing silver or gold to it with satin fabric bows and silver plates. She says the “new” gold is more true to a foil look, and even for herself, she is not an advocate of “fake” looks. Here’s a simple project: Gather up some twigs and introduce the color theme starting at your front door with a bow. Trader Joe’s, New Seasons and other stores offer twigs if you don’t have a tree of your own. So what are the benefits of making seasonal changes in your home? “When you come home, you feel like you are on vacation,” Roberto says. “Your home feels festive. It lifts your spirit. It motivates you to invite people over to share in what you have done. Add some wine and cheese and embrace your friends.”

About Dulce Roberto Dulce has been an interior design consultant for 15 years. She studied architecture in Brazil, and decided to make Portland her home after a vacation here. Realizing she would need to re-start her studies, Dulce decided to follow what she loved — design. She enrolled at Portland Community College, where she not only earned a degree in interior design, but also met her future husband.

LINN-BENTON EDITION

Photo by Shelly Pincock/Elle M Photography

Du Interiors designed this family room to easily transition the seasons by changing out pillows and a few accessories. Since PCC, she has worked with wineries, stores, homeowners, renters, medical offices, kitchen showrooms and more. “I’ve always been drawn to the visual,” says Roberto, who is a vision herself in the way she dresses and uses accessories. This year, because

of a recent trip to Iceland with her husband and 14year-old son, she’ll be combining the colors of the Nordic shores, using blues, grays, greens and whites, as well as the soft and gentle reds of their sunsets. For more information, visit duinteriors.com. ■

C Corvallis

CARING PL LA ACE PLACE Jan is eager to move from her house to her new Lodge Residence. “I’ve watched Dallas Retirement Village develop over the years, and I got to know the staff when my husband was receiving care. In many ways it already feels like home.” Along with the security of community living and the ease of knowing that someone else will take care of all maintenance, Jan is looking forward to social gatherings and yoga classes at the new Lodge Clubhouse wellness center.

We invite you to discover the ease of independent living at Dallas Retirement Village. Call 503-623-9211 to schedule a tour today!

377 NW Jasper Street - Dallas, OR 97338 DallasRetirementVillage.com A Non-Profit Community Founded in Christ Since 1947. All Faiths Are Welcome.

CCorvallis orvallis CCar Caring arringg Plac Place cee is a not-f not-for-profit for orr-prrofit providing dignity compassion aassisted ssistted living residenc rresidence esidencce pr rooviding dignit tyy and ccompa ompassion in a lif life-enriching fee-enrriching en environment virronment CCorvallis orvallis CCaring aring Plac Placee off offers ffers ers ccomforts omfforts of home in one one-bedroom -bedroom apartments with ser vices and suppor vailable 24/7. and studio apartments services supportt aavailable Our residents residents enjoy enjoy a variety variety of amenities and cconveniences, onveniences, Our including thr three ee delicious meals a da day,y, w weekly eekly housek housekeeping, eeping, tr transportation ansportation ttoo planned ac activities, tivities, and rraised aised gar garden den beds beds.. LLocated ocated in the hear heartt of our peac peaceful eful ccollege ollege ttown, own, our rresidents esidents ha have ve easy ac access cess ttoo parks parks,, shopping shopping,, rrestaurants, estaurants, health ccare, are, and the senior ccenter, enterr, as w well ell as ar artistic, tistic, educational, educational, athletic, athletic, and ccultural ultural oppor opportunities tunities aatt OSU and BBenton enton CCenter. enter.

750 NW 23r 23rdd St., St., Corvallis, Corvallis, Oregon Oregon 541-753-2033 www.CorvallisCaringPlace.org w ww.CorvallisCaringPlace.org

4 LINN-BENTON EDITION

DIGGIN’ IT!

By GRACE PETERSON MASTER GARDENER

No-rain? No-worry shrubs

NW BOOMER & SENIOR NEWS • NOVEMBER 2016

whether it’s going to pout at the first sign of dry soil. In other words, will this really cool plant survive the long rainless stretch between July and October The Glossy without me Abelia standing over with its it with a dripbeautiful ping hose? pink Fortunately, flowers plant breeders and bracts. and nursery Photo by people are Grace aware of how Peterson important drought-tolerant plants are for creating a self-sustaining landscape. If you’re constructing a new garden or altering an existing one or would just like

I admit I’m a plant-aholic. I’m always checking out new introductions and what’s on sale, fantasizing about what new plant I can stuff into my already overly-stuffed borders. I spend a good portion of my spring traipsing from one nursery to another, acquiring musthave treasures. But history has taught me that before I succumb to temptation, I should evaluate a plant’s survival needs first. Such as whether it will be happiest in sun or shade, whether it can handle a freeze or two, how susceptible it is to bugs and diseases, and

What will be your legacy?

Make a difference today and tomorrow We can help you make the most out of what you have, protect family and loved ones...and continue to help others after your lifetime.

541-917-4209 LINN-BENTON COMMUNITY www.linnbenton.edu/foundation

6500 Pacific Blvd. SW, Albany, OR 97321

COLLEGE FOUNDATION

Equal Opportunity Employer & Educator

something fuss-free to grow in a container, consider these sure-fire winners. Space prohibits listing them all, but here are a few that I’ve had success with for many years in my garden. Mexican Orange (Choisya ternata) has five fingered evergreen shiny leaves and pretty white flowers in spring and fall. It grows best in full sun but will take some shade. It can get to 6 feet tall and wide but takes pruning in stride. I’ve cut my shrub back to the ground and it survived just fine. There are several nice cultivars of this plant on the market and all are easy to grow. Heavenly Bamboo (Nandina domestica) is a light, airy evergreen shrub that is not a true bamboo (thus without the spreading tendencies). In winter the leaves take on burgundy tones and complement the red berries that hang in conical panicles. Plants can get tall but can be cut back in late winter to keep in check. There are several dwarf varieties that have wider leaves but don’t have the berries. They’re all drought tolerant once established and provide fantastic winter color in the garden. Osmanthus delavayi has small evergreen leaves that complement the white tubular flowers that appear in April and

May. On warm spring days their fragrance will carry a l l over the garden. This shrub takes pruning easily and will do well in a pot, looking great all year. A thick hedge of Glossy Abelia (Abelia grandiflora) has been growing in my front yard for over 20 years. I’ve never watered it and yet, come summer, fragrant blossoms appear that bees and butterflies go wild over. The remaining pink bracts look great throughout the fall months. I’ve seen this plant sheered into a tight mound but I think it looks best when it’s allowed to grow naturally and spread out. Fortunately there are many dwarf cultivars available. I’ve found that some perennial herbs are very drought tolerant. Rosemary can grow into a good sized shrub in just a few years. It is amazingly drought tolerant and holds its dark green color all year. In mid-winter, pretty blue flowers are borne along the upper leaf axils. Thyme and sage are also easy and reliable and their summer flowers are loved by bees. Although these plants are tolerant of dry soil, they require care when they’re first planted. Make sure they’re planted in well-draining soil and water them every few weeks their first summer. ■

NOVEMBER 2016 • www.nwboomerandseniornews.com

Recommended Reading “The Only Street in Paris, Life on the Rue des Martyrs” by Elaine Sciolino (WW Norton) I wish I’d read this book when I was in Paris because this makes me want to get on a plane and return. Sciolino is a storyteller at heart and in this charming book she brings to life not only a street but a French way of life that is seductive. Her trained journalist’s eye and attention to detail captures not only the street’s amazing history but also its humanity. Now in paperback, I’d give this five stars. Sciolino is a former Paris bureau chief for the New York Times. This is not a guidebook but the result of her infectious curiosity.

“The Lucky Years: How to Thrive in the Brave New World of Health” by David B. Agus, MD (Simon & Schuster), the bestselling author of “The End of Illness” and “A Short Guide to a Long Life.” As an invaluable guide to navigating the new revolution in healthcare, Agus’s book is well worth your attention. He is a professor of medicine and engineering at USC and heads their Westside Cancer Center and the Center of Applied Molecular Medicine, no small credentials. He writes about the startling developments in medication technologies, personalized medicine and new means of prevention happening right now that will allow us to take control of our own health like never before, and will forever change our approach to health care. Highly respected, Agus says these breakthroughs will reap the rewards of the “lucky years.” “Becoming Richard Pryor” by Scott Saul (Harper) As a fan of the iconic performer Richard Pryor one is fascinated by him and this psychologically probing new biography takes a fresh look at the actorcomedian, focusing on the lesser-understood years from his childhood and apprenticeship as a stand-up to his arrival as a Hollywood star. Pryor was not always a good person but he had a poignant sadness that drew people to him.

“Stop Breast Cancer Before it Starts” by Dr. Samuel S. Epstein (Seven Stories Press) Here’s a book by a leading authority on the causes and prevention of breast cancer. Excluding skin cancer, breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer in the United States and he doesn’t believe this should be. An expert on preventative causes, he asks the question: With all the talk about early detection, mammograms, improved treatment, and the race for the cure, why don’t we ever hear about breast cancer prevention? In this book he presents preventative choices that empower women to take charge of their health. And he answers his question. Controversial? Yes. Must read? Yes. Reviewed by MAGGI WHITE

LINN-BENTON EDITION

Medicare Plan Guide Here’s what some major providers have to offer. For more detailed information, contact each company directly. Samaritan Advantage Health Plan HMO - Premier Plan 1- 800-832-4580 TTY 1-800-735-2900

Providence Medicare Extra Plans (HMO) 503-574-5551 800-457-6064; TTY: 711

Providence Medicare Choice Plans (HMO-POS) 503-574-5551 800-457-6064; TTY: 711

Providence Medicare Prime + Rx (HMO-POS) 503-574-5551 800-457-6064; TTY: 711

$110

Without RX: $109 With RX: $162

Without RX: $45 With RX: $88

Providers in Benton, Lincoln & Linn Counties; doctors & specialists from Eugene to Portland

In-network

In-network or out-ofnetwork providers

$15 copay primary care; $30 copay specialist

$10

$15/$30 in/out-of network

$5/$45 in/out-ofnetwork

Routine Physical Exams

$0 copay

$0/20% in/out-of-network

$0/30% in/out-of-network

Emergency Care, USA/Foreign

$75 worldwide; Urgent care $35 co-pay nationwide

$75

$250 co-pay/day (1-6),

Days 1-5: $250/day Days 6 & beyond: $0

Days 1-5: $300/day Days 6 & beyond: $0 20% out-of-network

Days 1-5: $340/day Days 6 & beyond: $0 30% out-of-network

Monthly Premium

Choice of Doctors

Per Doctor Visit

Hospitalization

$1,750 out-of-pocket limit/year

Choice of Hospitals

All hospitals in Benton, Lincoln & Linn Counties; Eugene Sacred Heart Med. Center, Springfield Sacred Heart Med. Center at Riverbend; Salem Hospital; Gresham Legacy Mt. Hood Med. Center, Portland OHSU, Portland Legacy Emanuel Hospital, Portland Legacy Good Samaritan Hosp/Med. Center, Tualatin Legacy Meridian Park Hospital, Vancouver Legacy Salmon Creek Hospital

Providence and other community hospitals, including Tuality, Tuality Forest Grove, Santiam, Salem, Silverton, Cottage Grove, Willamette Valley and PeaceHealth Southwest Medical Center

Providence and other community hospitals, including Tuality, Tuality Forest Grove

Ambulance

$250 co-pay

$250 one way

$300 one way

$0 co-pay/day (1-120) $160 co-pay/day (21-60) $0 co-pay (61-120)

Days 1-20: $0/day Days 21-100: $150/day

In-network: Days 1-20: $0/day Days 21-100: $150/day Out-of-network: 20%

In-network: Days 1-20: $0 Days 21-100: $160/day Out-of-network: 30%

Without RX: Part B drugs only With RX: Integrated Part D benefit

Integrated Part D drug benefit

Skilled Nursing Care

Prescription Drug Plan

Prescription Drug Copay, Deductible

Vision Hearing Exams & Hearing Aids Mental Health Therapy Members Other Details

Service Areas

Website & other Phone Numbers

Part D drug benefits

$0 deductible Preferred generic: $3 Generic: max. $9 Preferred brand: max. $47 Non-preferred brand: 45% coinsurance Specialty: 33% co-insurance

Preferred generic/preferred netPreferred generic/preferred network pharmacy $6*; preferred work pharmacy $6*; preferred generic/network pharmacy: $12; generic/network pharmacy: $12; generic/preferred network phargeneric/preferred network pharmacy $15*; generic/network pharmacy $15*; generic/network pharmacy $20; Preferred brand $47*; macy $20; Preferred brand $47*; non-preferred drugs 25%; Spenon-preferred drugs 25%; cialty drugs 30%; $100 deductible Specialty drugs 33%; *preferred pharmacy, *preferred pharmacy, 20% discount on 3 mo. supply 20% discount on 3 mo. supply

Routine eye exam: $15. Basic lenses cov$30 co-pay routine exam; $30 co- ered in full, every 2 yrs. Frames or contact pay exams to diagnose & treat; lenses (in lieu of glasses) $100 allowance $125 eyewear/2 years every 2 yrs.

Preferred generic/preferred network pharmacy $7*; preferred generic/network pharmacy: $12; generic/preferred network pharmacy $15*; generic/network pharmacy $20; Preferred brand $47*; non-preferred drugs 25%; Specialty drugs 29%; $200 deductible *preferred pharmacy, 20% discount on 3 mo. supply

Routine eye exam: $20 in-network/out-of network; Covered up to $45 out-of-network. Basic lenses covered in full, every 2 yrs. Frames or contact lenses (in lieu of glasses) $100 allowance every 2 yrs.

No routine coverage Optional Routine vision buy up plan available

$10 co-pay routine hearing test ($500 hearing aid benefit w/ Premier Plan Plus)

$20 no coverage for hearing aids

$30 in-network; 20% out-of-network; no coverage for hearing aids

$40 in-network; 30% out-ofnetwork; no coverage for hearing aids

$20 co-pay/visit

$20

$30 in-network 20% out-of-network

$40 in-network 30% out-of-network

Over 5,500

50,000+ (All MA plans)

$3,750 annual out-of-pocket limit/year $175 co-pay outpatient surgery/service Conventional ($72/mo; medical benefits) and Premier Plus ($140/mo; medical & Part D) plans also available. Premier Plus offers preventive dental, hearing aid benefit, added DME out-ofpocket max and generic drug coverage during Gap.

Silver&Fit no-cost gym Silver&Fit no-cost gym membership; $0 copay for membership; $0 copay for online video visits with online video visits with Providence Express Care Providence Express Care Virtual; Optional dental Virtual; Optional dental plans starting at plans starting at $33.70/mo; $33.70/mo; 24-hr. nurse advice line 24-hr. nurse advice line

Benton, Lincoln & Linn Counties

Clackamas, Columbia, Clackamas, Columbia, Lane, Marion, Multnomah, Lane, Marion, Multnomah, Polk, Washington & Polk, Washington & Yamhill counties in Yamhill counties in Oregon. Clark County, WA Oregon. Clark County, WA

Clackamas, Multnomah & Washington counties in Oregon

503-574-5551, 800-457-6064 503-574-5551, 800-457-6064 TTY:711 TTY:711

503-574-5551, 800-457-6064 TTY:711

ProvidenceHealthAssurance.com

www.samhealthplans.org 1-800-832-4580 TTY 1-800-735-2900

Silver&Fit no-cost gym membership; $0 copay for online video visits with Providence Express Care Virtual; Optional dental plans starting at $33.70/mo; 24-hr. nurse advice line Routine Vision plan $8.80/mo.

ProvidenceHealthAssurance.com

Retain this chart for future reference. Prices and terms are subject to change. Be sure to contact your provider or prospective provider for complete coverage details and possible updated information. Chart information is current as of Oct. 11, 2016.

6 LINN-BENTON EDITION

NW BOOMER & SENIOR NEWS • NOVEMBER 2016

You Y ou like what you like, whether it’ it’s s a type of apple or the right Medicar Medicare e plan. That’s why Providence Medicare Advantage Plans of fer a no - cost gym member ship, access to thousands of in-net work provider s at Providence facilities and beyond, and no - cost, online video visits.

So, how do you like them apples?

Call us for information or a personal appointment at 1-8551-855- 998-8569 998-8569 (TTY: (TTY: 711). Service is available between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m. (Pacific time), seven days a week.

Enroll Enroll at P ProvidenceHealthAssurance.com/2017plans rovidenceHealthAssurance.com/2017plans

Pro Providence ovidence M Medicare edicare e Advantage Advantage Plans Plans is a an nH HMO, MO, HMO-POS, HMO-POS, and and HMO HMO SNP SNP p plan lan with with a M Medicare edicare e and and Oregon Ore egon H Health ealth P Plan lan contract. contra act. Enrollment E nro ollment in P Providence ro ovidence Medicare Medicare eA Advantage dvantage P Plans lans depends depends o on nc contract ontra act renewal. renewal. This This in information formation is n not ot a complete complete description description of of benefits. benefits. C Contact ontact tthe he plan plan ffo for or more more e in information. formation. Limitations, Limitations, copayments, copayments, a and nd rrestrictions estrictions m may ay apply. apply. B Benefits, enefits, p premiums re emiums a and/or nd/or c coopayments/co-insurance p ayments/co-insurance m may ay c change hange on on January January 1 o off e each ach yye year. ear. The The provider pro ovider n network etwork m may ay change change a att a any ny time. time. You Yo You w will ill receive receive notice notice when when necessary. necessary. P Providence ro ovidence M Medicare edicare A Advantage dvantage Plans Plans a are re av a available vailable in Clackamas, Clackamas, Columbia, Columbia, Crook, Crook, Deschutes, Deschutes, H Hood ood R River, iver, Jefferson, Jeffersson, Lane, Lane, M Marion, arion, M Multnomah, ultnomah, Polk, Polk, Washington, Wa W ashington, Wheeler Wheeler and and Yamhill Ya Y amhill counties counties in O Oregon regon a and nd C Clark lark C County ounty W Wa Washington. ashington. H H9047_2017PHA56 9047_2017PHA56 A ACCEPTED CCEPTED

HP16-90320 HP16-90320 10/16 10/16

Library: It’s time to write that book NOVEMBER 2016 • www.nwboomerandseniornews.com

Some call it the “writing world’s version of a marathon” — 30 days, 50,000 words and one original novel. It’s all happening at Corvallis-Benton County Public Library in October and November. This fun-filled challenge is known as NaNoWriMo, or National Novel Writing Month. It starts with a plot planning event from 2 to 3:30 p.m. Oct. 22, followed by several writing sessions. Writers ages 13 years and older of all skill levels are welcome at these events. At the plot planning, you will learn what NaNoWriMo is (and how to say it), create an outline or storyboard for your novel, name your characters, build your world, and bounce ideas off of other writers. At the book launch and kick off party, from 2 to 3 p.m. Oct. 29, you will celebrate the release of the third annual publication of the library-published anthology

LINN-BENTON EDITION

Oregon,” while meeting other NaNoWriMo-goers and getting revved up about the challenge ahead. There will be games, food and a raffle for prizes. Then, from 2 to 5:30 p.m. Saturdays in November, NaNoWriMo writers can drop in and write any time. Bring your preferred writing tools, whether it’s a pen and paper, or a laptop, and work on your novel. You’ll be surrounded by other local writers and all of the library’s resources. Beverages and snacks for fueling up will be provided. All of the events are sponsored by the Friends of the Library. Visit nanowrimo.org, or call 541-7666793 for more information. A hearing loop system is available in the Main Meeting Room. For disability accommodations, please contact the library, 541-7666928, at least 48 hours in advance. ■

“National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo) 2015: A Collection of Excerpts From Writers in Corvallis,

Corvallis Caring Place

750 NW 23rd St. Corvallis, OR 97330 541-753-2033 Lorene Hales, Administrator info@corvalliscaringplace.org www.corvalliscaringplace.org

Dallas Retirement Village

377 NW Jasper Street Dallas, OR 97338 503-623-5581 Fax: 503-623-6450 www.dallasretirementvillage.com

Mennonite Village 5353 Columbus St. SE Albany, OR 97322 541-928-7232 Whitney Olsen, Marketing info@mennonitevillage.org www.mennonitevillage.org www.facebook.com/ mennonitevillage

Mennonite Village Assisted Living at Quail Run 2525 47th Ave. SE Albany, OR 97322 541-928-1122 Angie Flaherty, Admissions www.mennonitevillage.org

Samaritan Wiley Creek Community

5050 Mountain Fir St. Sweet Home, OR 97386 541-367-1800 www.samhealth.org

Rates dependent upon level of care. Call for rate information.

● ● ● ● ●

42 Units

“No Buy-In” A full-service Retirement Community with multiple living/ care options.

● ● ● ● ● ● ●

Rates starting at $1867

989 N.W. Spruce Street Corvallis, OR 97330 541-753-1488 Robin Bemrose

AMENITIES Corvallis Caring Place is a not-for-profit assisted living residence providing dignity and compassion in a life-enriching environment; conveniently located in the heart of a peaceful college town where residents have easy access to parks, shopping, restaurants, health care, and the senior center, as well as artistic, educational, athletic, and cultural opportunities at OSU and Benton Center. Active retirement living with a full accommodation of living options and services in one scenic care community. Remodeled Independent Living community features: spacious homes, apartments, elegant dining rooms & abundant common areas to enjoy time with friends. Full service community. Garden homes and Health Center complete with Skilled Nursing & Alzheimer’s care, and Memory Care Center.

A 275-acre community in a rural setting,

Mennonite Village provides living spaces A Not-for-Profit for all levels of retirement - close to CorContinuing Care vallis, Eugene, or Salem. With an awardResidential Community winning chef and beautifully landscaped ● ● ● ● * ● ● grounds Mennonite Village is an incluproviding Life-Enriching sive, all-faith community of amazing Services to People people. Services include: independent of All Faiths living, assisted living, nursing & rehab, and Beliefs. memory care, foster care, respite care, and in-home care.

“No Buy-In” Studio: $3525 & up 1 BR/1 BA: $4490 & up

● ● ● ● ●

98 Units (36 1-bedrom; 62 studios) “No Buy-In”

Independent Cottages: $1390 & up ● ● ● ● ● ● Assisted Living: $2575 & up Medicaid accepted 44 Units

“No Buy-In”

Timberhill Place

Memory Care

Planned Activities

Utilities Included

Transportation

Housekeeping

LOCATION

Asst. Living/RCF/Foster Care

COMMUNITY

BUY-IN MONTHLY RENTAL No. of Units

Independent Living

RETIREMENT LIVING CHOICES

We offer 9 styles of apartments including 2 BR/2 BA apartments. 60 Units

● ● ● ● ●

Mennonite Village Assisted Living at Quail Run is a not-for-profit community and part of a thriving continuing care retirement community. Residents enjoy three farm-fresh meals, housekeeping, transportation services, and six dimensions of wellness activities, all on a serene, 275-acre campus in a rural setting within the Albany city limits.

Wiley Creek Lodge is just minutes from downtown Sweet Home. Housing and personal care services are provided for persons age 55 and over. The selection of apartments ranges from studio to twobedroom, each with a “front porch” facing a spacious atrium filled with natural light. Each apartment has a private bath, a kitchenette, an emergency call system, and other appropriate amenities.

Assisted living community located within short distance of local shopping center. We offer 3 delicious meals daily, weekly housekeeping & linen services, social/recreational programs, scheduled transportation in our van and a full range of personal services available should you need them.

Stories wanted on how couples met 8 LINN-BENTON EDITION Author Jan Fowler is looking for stories of how couples met. Couples must have met after age 50 and be in a committed relationship, but do not need to be married. She will select 52 true-life accounts to be included in her forthcoming book about how boomer/senior couples meet. All selected contributors will be contacted for permission to print their stories, and will receive one complimentary signed copy of Fowler’s book when it is released.

NW BOOMER & SENIOR NEWS • NOVEMBER 2016

To submit a story, please describe your real-life first encounter in several short paragraphs. Here are some examples: “Tom and I met when he stopped to help change my flat tire on the shoulder of a busy highway, then followed me to safety. Afterwards, he stayed with me and calmed me down while my tire was being repaired. We found each other very easy to talk to and were surprised to learn we had so much in common. We were

both lonely and gradually discovered new purpose together. I’m happy to report

that we’ve been loving sweethearts for the past seven years!”

Buy ❧ Sell ❧ Trade

Browsers’ Bookstore 121 NW 4th Street CORVALLIS 541-758-1121

Browsers’ Bookstore Vol. II 1425 Pacific Blvd SE ALBANY 541-926-2612

“Gloria slowed down to ask me for directions while I was outside washing my brand new car. She and I felt an instant attraction for each other so she lingered just a little bit longer that day to talk some more. It was obvious that sparks of chemistry were flying, so we agreed to exchange contact info. One thing led to another and we were married in less than a year. She and I are now having the time of our lives!” Fowler is the author of the best-selling book, “Hot Chocolate for Seniors,” winner of the Gold Halo Award from the Southern California Motion Picture Council for Outstanding Literary Achievement; and several other journalism and writing awards. Submissions must include your full name, email address, phone number, mailing address and story of how you met. Email submissions to jan@janfowler.com, call 909-793-6419, or mail submissions to Jan Fowler Senior Productions, 1554 Barton Road, Suite 251, Redlands, CA 92373. The deadline is Nov. 30. ■

CLASSIFIED ADS

We love to buy old books

Ads must be RECEIVED BY the 6th of the month PRIOR to publication Go to www.NWBoomerandSeniorNews.com for ad form and instructions.

9 Vacation Rental

available at this time. We are committed to providing equal housing opportunities. All utilities paid. Briarwood Manor, 643 Manbrin, Keizer, OR 97303, 503-981-8614.

LINCOLN CITY OCEAN FRONT, fantastic view, fireplace, TV/VCR/DVD, 2 bdrms, kit/dishwasher, no smoking, no pets. Very comfortable. 503-843-3157. HUD SUBSIDIZED UNEmail: holton@macITS for senior citizens net.com. 62 or older, disabled and/or handicapped, LINCOLN CITY OCEAN available at this time. VIEW. Historic WeWe are committed to coma neighborhood. 3 providing equal housblocks to beach, ing opportunities. All 2bdrm, 2ba. Fully equtilities paid. Glenwood uipped kitchen. DISH Manor, 1687 NW DiviTV/VCR/DVD. No smosion St., Corvallis. 541king. Pets maybe, with 753-3408. deposit. Email: dehamer7848@msn.com HUD SUBSIDIZED UNfor rates & pictures or ITS for senior citizens call 503-399-7848. 62 or older, disabled and/or handicapped, Units for Rent available at this time. We are committed to HUD SUBSIDIZED UNproviding equal housITS for senior citizens ing opportunities. All 62 or older, disabled utilities paid. Millwood and/or handicapped, Manor, 2550 14th Ave SE, Albany. 541-928EQUAL HOUSING 2545.

OPPORTUNITY

All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin, or an intention, to make any such preference, limitation or discrimination.” Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians; pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowlingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To complain of discrimination call HUD Toll-free at 1800-669-9777. The Toll-free telephone number for the hearing impaired is 1800-927-9275.

32 Cemetery Plots

CASH FOR PRE 1980 sport & non-sport gum or cigarette cards, model kits, comic books, old toys, old car or?? Private collector. 503-313-7538.

ONE LOT AT CITY VIEW Cemetery. Current value $2000. Selling for $1200, obo. Easy access & location. For information call 50330+ YEARS TRUSTED, 371-9555. REPUTABLE ANTIQUES BUYER. ALWAYS BUYWanted ING: old photos, postcards, costume CASH FOR GOOD CONjewelry, most anything DITION reloading eqantique or vintage. uipment & supplies. Please call 503-422541-905-5453. 8478.

BASEBALL & SPORTS CASH for DIABETIC MEMORABILIA wanted. TEST STRIPS. Help Buying old cards, pennants, autographs, photographs, tickets, programs, Pacific Coast League, etc. Alan, 503-481-0719.

HIGHEST CASH PAID TODAY FOR DIABETIC TEST STRIPS GUARANTEED! Free local pickup since 2010. We will beat anyone local by 20%! Call us NOW to get the MOST CASH TODAY!! Help others. HUD SUBSIDIZED UNCALL 360-693-0185. ITS for senior citizens 62 or older, disabled MUSICAL INSTRUand/or handicapped, MENTS WANTED. Portavailable at this time. land Music Co. always We are committed to buying! Reputable providing equal houssince 1927. Free aping opportunities. All praisals. 531 SE M.L.K. utilities paid. Surfwood Blvd. Ask for Doug. Manor, 4545 SW Hwy 503-226-3719. 101, Lincoln City, 541996-3477.

those in need. Paying up to $40 per box. Free pickup! Call Sharon, 503-679-3605. OLD ELECTRIC KEYBOARDS & ORGANS, synthesizers, amplifiesrs, speakers. Leslie, Baldwin, Hammond, ARP, Conn, Wurlitzer, Vox, Vibratone, Roland, Yamaha, Fender. 503-493-2983.

Oregon’s oldest and largest boomer & senior publication, NW Boomer & Senior News, seeks advertising sales people in the Portland-Metro/ Vancouver area. This is a great opportunity for selfstarters that prefer setting their own schedule. Some sales and networking skills are a plus. Email your Letter of Interest and resumé to: Patty Gilbert pgilbert@nwseniornews.com

NOTICE: Oregon state law (ORS 701) requires anyone who contracts for construction work to be licensed with the Construction Contractors Board. An active license means the contrctor is bonded and insured. Verify the contractor’s CCB license through the CCB Consu-mer Website www.hirali censedcontractor.com or call 503378-4621.

NOVEMBER 2016 • www.nwboomerandseniornews.com

LINN-BENTON EDITION

Oct. 26 “This Place,” a community discussion exploring place, belonging, affection, stewardship and ownership, 6:30 to 8 p.m., Corvallis- Benton County Public Library, 645 NW Monroe Ave. 541-766-6793.

Oct. 28 (also Oct. 29) Trolley of Terror, 6-9 p.m. on the hour, Monteith House, Albany. $10. 541-928-0911. Oct. 30 Portland Youth Philharmonic, 3 p.m., Austin Auditorium, LaSells Stewart Center, Corvallis. Free. 503-223-5939.

Philomath Open Studios, noon to 5 p.m., downtown Philomath.

November

“Eddie the Eagle,” 1:30 p.m., Chintimini Senior and Community Center, 2601 NW Tyler Ave., Corvallis. $2. 541-766-6959.

Legal Savvy Seminar: How to Avoid Probate, 12:15 p.m., Chintimini Senior and Community Center, 2601 NW Tyler Ave., Corvallis. $1.50. 541-766-6959. Experienced line dancing class, 2:15 to 4 p.m. Thursdays, Newport 60+ Activity Center, 20 SE 2nd St. Classes also offered for beginner and intermediate. 541-265-9617.

(through Nov. 6) Gifts for a Better World last-chance sale, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Timberhill Shopping Center, 2315 NW Kings Blvd., Corvallis.

(through Nov. 19) “A Wrinkle in Time,” 2 and 7 p.m., Corvallis High School Main Stage Theatre, 1400 NW Buchanan Ave. $5-$12. CorvallisTheatres.com.

Chamber Music Corvallis: Telegraph Quartet, 7:30 p.m., First United Methodist Church, 1165 NW Monroe Ave., Corvallis.

Fill Your Pantry, noon to 3 p.m., Benton County

(also Nov. 26) Tree Lighting Party and Santa Sale, Lincoln City Cultural Center. 541-9949994.

Fairgrounds Guerber Hall, 110 SW 53rd St., Corvallis. Tenriversfoodweb.org.

Collette Vacations Slideshow: Maritime Coastal Wonders, 10 a.m., Chintimini Senior and Community Center, 2601 NW Tyler Ave., Corvallis. 541-766-6959.

Memory Loss Support Group, 1:30 p.m., Chintimini Senior and Community Center, 2601 NW Tyler Ave., Corvallis. 541-766-6959. Hiking and Walking with Your Dog: Preparation is Key, 12:30 to 2 p.m., Albany Senior Center, 489 Water Ave. NW. 541917-7760.

“Free State of Jones,” 1:30 p.m., Chintimini Senior and Community Center, 2601 NW Tyler Ave., Corvallis. $2. 541-766-6959.

Parkinson’s Disease Support Group, noon, Chintimini Senior and Community Center, 2601 NW Tyler Ave., Corvallis. 541-766-6959. (also Nov. 16) Active Strides Walking Group, 9 to 10 a.m., Chintimini Senior and Community Center, 2601 NW Tyler Ave., Corvallis. $10.

Legal Savvy Seminar: Understanding Estate Planning, 12:15 p.m., Chintimini Senior and Community Center, 2601 NW Tyler Ave., Corvallis. $1.50. 541-766-6959. Exploring Indian Cuisine cooking, 2 to 5 p.m., Chintimini Senior and Community Center, 2601 NW Tyler Ave., Corvallis. $53/$66.25. 541-7666959.

11 12

Leaf Rake for 55-plus, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., by appointment. 541-766-6959.

Fifth Annual Creative Arts Holiday Show and Sale, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Gleneden Beach Community Hall. 541-764-4201.

Homemade Tamales cooking class, noon to 3 p.m., Chintimini Senior and Community Center, 2601 NW Tyler Ave., Corvallis. $51/$63.75. 541-766-6959.

13 14

Meet author Chris Anderson, 3 p.m., Grass Roots Books and Music, 227 NW 2nd St., Corvallis. Advanced Directive workshop, 10:30 a.m., Chintimini Senior and Community Center, 2601 NW Tyler Ave., Corvallis. 541-7666959.

“Fathers and Daughters,” 1:30 p.m., Chintimini Senior and Community Center, 2601 NW Tyler Ave., Corvallis. $2. 541-766-6959.

OSU Wind Symphony and Campus Band, 7:30 p.m., LaSells Stewart Center, OSU. Free. Send your calendar items to: Calendar, 4120 River Road N., Keizer, OR 97303 or email mte@nwseniornews.com by the 6th of the month for the following month’s publication.

Thyme Garden Salmon Celebration trip, leaves at 12:15 p.m. from Chintimini, 2601 NW Tyler Ave., Corvallis. 541-766-6959.

“Eye in the Sky,” 1:30 p.m., Chintimini Senior and Community Center, 2601 NW Tyler Ave., Corvallis. $2. 541-766-6959.

Thanksgiving Luncheon, noon, Albany Senior Center, 489 Water Ave. NW. $8. 541-917-7760.

Chintimini Nightclub: Dave Plaehn and Jeff Hino Band, 7 p.m., Chintimini Senior and Community Center, 2610 NW Tyler Ave., Corvallis. $9. 541-766-6959.

Meet author Nick Neely, 7 p.m., Grass Roots Books and Music, 227 SW 2nd St., Corvallis.

Low Vision/Macular Degeneration Support Group, 2 p.m., Chintimini Senior and Community Center, 2610 NW Tyler Ave., Corvallis. 541766-6959.

IT’S COLD OUTSIDE! If your pet(s) stay outside most of the time, remember they get cold, too. Provide warm, dry shelter and plenty of fresh water & extra food. Call Any Day, Any Hour, 24/7

• Bathing / Dressing • Pet Care • Diabetic Care • Transportation • Meal Preparation • Short-Term Clients • Medication (post op) Administration • Many other • Personal Hygiene services Free Assessment with No Obligation

ASK ABOUT OUR FREE COMMUNITY RESOURCE GUIDE

CORVALLIS 541-752-9059

ALBANY 541-936-3000

www.newhorizonsinhomecare.com LOCALLY OWNED SINCE

1985

HealtHy living Directory NAME & LOCATION

Providence Medicare Advantage Plans 3601 SW Murray Blvd. Beaverton, OR 97005 1-800-457-6064 (TTY: 711) 8 a.m.- 8 p.m. (Pacific time), seven days a week

SERVICES OFFERED Some decisions are easy. Choose a Providence Medicare Advantage Plan and get the health coverage you need with the wellness support you want from an organization that has been serving the Northwest for generations. Learn more at ProvidenceHealthAssurance.com. Providence Medicare Advantage Plans is an HMO, HMO-POS, and HMO SNP plan with a Medicare and Oregon Health Plan contract. Enrollment in Providence Medicare Advantage Plans depends on contract renewal. H9047_2017RCGA11

HEALTHY Vibes

10 LINN-BENTON EDITION

NW BOOMER & SENIOR NEWS • NOVEMBER 2016

Get in sync with your internal clock

By MARK REPLOEG, MD

Providing Life-Enriching Services Since 1947 “After living independently at the Mennonite Village for longer than any other resident, my mom who is 102 (and 3/4) years old just moved into Mennonite Village’s Assisted Living at Quail Run. I live 3000 miles away and, although I visit frequently, knowing she is safe and cared for is the best feeling in the world. And these people at Quail Run are the best! The staff know her and all the other residents by name and go out of their way to learn the residents' habits and preferences and make them feel like family.” — Barbara Assisted Living at Quail Run 2525 47th Ave SE, Albany, OR 97322 541-928-1122 www.MennoniteVillage.org Mennonite Village is subject to the federal Fair Housing Act, which prohibits “any preference, limitation, or discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin, or intention to make such preference, limitation or discrimination.”

She stands in tattered gold, tossing bits of amber and jade, jewels of a year grown old: November. ~Zephyr Ware Tarver WEALTH MANAGEMENT

To say that humans are a creature of habit is not just a cliché, it’s a scientifically proven statement. All mammals, including humans, are subject to circadian rhythms, which are regular changes in mental and physical characteristics that occur in the course of a day. Circadian rhythms are important in determining sleeping and eating patterns. There are clear patterns of core body temperature, brain wave activity, hormone (melatonin) production, cell regeneration and other biological activities linked to this daily cycle, which are often triggered by light exposure or other routine external factors such as an alarm clock. Every individual has his or her own rhythm. There are those people who naturally prefer to sleep and wake early — called “larks” or “morning people” — and then there are those who prefer to sleep and wake at late times called “owls.” These sleep patterns are still considered normal and healthy as long as the individual: ■ Can wake in time for what they need to do in the morning, and fall asleep at

night in time to get enough sleep before getting up again. ■ Can sleep and wake up at the same time every day, if they want to. ■ Can, within a few days of starting a new sleep/wake routine, naturally adjust their rhythm without decreasing the amount of sleep they get. People who are unable to sleep and wake at the times required for normal work, school or other social needs could be suffering from a family of sleep disorders called circadian rhythm sleep disorders. Generally, these people are able to get enough sleep, but not at hours that support a normal 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. job. In this case, the disorder may be alleviated by working a job with adjusted hours such as a swing shift. Although shift work may be suitable for some people, it can instigate a circadian rhythm sleep disorder. For example, working nights can leave people in a constant readjustment cycle between their work hours and the hours they keep on non-work days for social activities, causing major sleep disruptions and potentially other health issues. Recent data has linked night

SERVICE

DIRECTORY

Call 1-877-357-2430 today to inquire about advertising here FINANCIAL SERVICES

An Independent Agency Representing Nearly All Major Insurers

Individual & Group Insurance Plans for: Health ✦ Long-Term Care ✦ Life Medicare Supplements ✦ Medicare Drug Plans Tax-Deferred Annuities Rebecca Swanson, President Julie Hubert, Licensed Agent Vanessa Winn, Licensed Agent or 1-800-274-4926 www.theswansonagency.com 310 NW 5th St. Ste. 105

757-7166

Affordable and Convenient Estate Planning

KAREN L. MISFELDT, ATTORNEY Wills - Trusts - Advanced Directives Powers of Attorney Probate & Estate Administration Guardianships & Conservatorships

HEILIG, MISFELDT & ARMSTRONG, LLP

541-754-7477

310 NW 7th St • Corvallis

REAL ESTATE

Buying or Selling? Downsizing? Call for your free home evaluation

541-257-2959 Each office independently owned and operated

www.richburgess.yourkwagent.com NW 9th St. Corvallis, OR 97330 | Office 541-738-7770 1121

Rich Burgess | Broker

ASSISTED LIVING IN YOUR HOME

INSURANCE

The Swanson Agency, inc.

ESTATE PLANNING

shift work to increased risk of cardiovascular disease and even breast cancer in women. Other circadian rhythm sleep disorders that affect the quality of sleep one gets are delayed sleep phase syndrome (DSPS), which causes a much later than normal timing of sleep onset and offset and a period of peak alertness in the middle of the night; and advanced sleep phase syndrome (ASPS), which causes difficulty staying awake in the evening and staying asleep in the morning. The key to getting a consistent good night’s rest is to keep a routine that keeps your circadian rhythm in harmony. If you feel you are keeping to routine, but still experience mid-day drowsiness or long periods of late-night alertness, talk to your health care provider and see if a sleep evaluation at our sleep center is appropriate for you. Mark Reploeg, MD, is a board-certified neurologist, neurophysiologist, and sleep medicine specialist with The Corvallis Clinic. He is also the Medical Director of the Samaritan Sleep Disorders Center at Good Samaritan Regional Medical Center.

GUN SHOP BUYING

Providing Quality In-Home Care

Housekeeping ● Transportation ● Meal Preparation Dressing/Bathing ● Personal Hygiene Mobility Assistance ● Pet Care and More!

Call Today ~ 541-757-0214 ~ Corvallis www.HelpingHandsHomeCare.com MEDICARE INSURANCE

GUNS

PHILOMATH GUN SHOP Buy • Sell • Trade • Consign Free Estimates • Buying Collections Class Three Dealer Over 1000 Guns in Stock

541-929-2298 1120 Main Street Philomath, OR 97370 Wes & JoAnn Strobel www.guns4sale.net

Medicare: What you need to know NOVEMBER 2016 • www.nwboomerandseniornews.com

LINN-BENTON EDITION

■ Get free, unbiased help during the open enrollment period

By MICHELLE TE BOOMER & SENIOR NEWS

Annual open enrollment for Medicare has started and it’s important to know what that means for you. Enrollment is open through Dec. 7. Any Medicare Advantage (Part C) or prescription drug plan (Part D) changes must be made between those dates so that coverage begins without interruption on Jan. 1. “It is important to compare Medicare Advantage and Prescription Drug plans every year,” says Lisa Emerson, Senior Health Insurance Benefits Assistance (SHIBA) coordinator with the state of Oregon. “Plans change year to year, as do your individual health care needs, including prescription medications. You could potentially save money by shopping for a new plan.” Retiring employees who no longer have health insurance available through their workplace instead must buy it through the federal government. But which plan should you buy, how often should you review it, and how do you know whether it’s the best plan for you? There aren’t always easy answers to these questions, but there is free assistance. SHIBA counselors provide unbiased, personalized phone and in-person counseling. Private health insurance agents provide assistance in reviewing plan options at no out-of-pocket cost to beneficiaries. Medicare.gov has a “plan finder” tool to aid in comparing plans and completing online enrollment. And even the health insurance companies themselves have agents who assist in describing benefits of their specific plans. Much of that information is available in this issue of NW Boomer and Senior News, where our Medicare guide provides plan descriptions and benefits.

What Medicare is — and isn’t Medicare was created by the federal government in 1965, and is health insurance for Americans age 65 years or older, those under age 65 receiving Social Security Disability Insurance for more than 24 months, and those with endstage renal disease or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). There are more than 760,000 Oregonians with Medicare. Na-

Courtesy photo

During a “birthday party” in Roseburg in September, SHIBA counselors supplied not only a birthday cake, but also helped educate their audience on Medicare basics, from enrollment deadlines to long-term care planning. tionally, Medicare enrollment is increasing at a rate of more than 10,000 beneficiaries per day. To enroll in Medicare and its other plans, begin signing up three months before you turn 65. You have seven months to sign up. If you are already enrolled in a plan, but want to make a change, you have until Dec. 7. Medicare Part A and Part B cover basic hospital and medical services at approximately 80 percent. Medicare allows private insurance companies to sell Medicare-approved policies. The first is Medigap, jointly regulated by the state, and which pays the out-of-pocket costs after Medicare pays its portion. It is available with or without drug coverage and a stand-alone prescription drug plan can be purchased for those who choose to enroll in a Medigap plan. Some of the items not covered by Parts A and B include long-term care, dental care and dentures, outpatient prescription drugs, alternative care, hearing aids and exams for fitting hearing aids, routine vision and eyeglasses, routine annual physicals with lab tests, and most travel outside the United States. Medigap helps cover the “gaps” in insurance that Original Medicare (Parts A and B) do not cover, such as deductibles and co-insurance. The plans are named by letter, Plan A through Plan N. The plan benefits are standardized, meaning Plan A in one private insurance company is exactly the same as Plan A in another

company. During the enrollment process, health insurance companies may consider your medical history, and may refuse your application if you do not enroll within the required time period. They also may offer you a lower initial rate for the first 12 months, and then rates may increase overtime. To view a company’s rate history, visit oregon.gov/DCBS /shiba/topics/Pages/medigap.as px. Medicare Advantage (Part C) was approved in the 1990s as another way to receive your Medicare benefits. Medicare Advantage plans are sold by private health insurance companies that contract with Medicare and offer “coordinated care.” Medicare pays these plans to provide all your Medicare-approved services. When you join a Medicare Advantage plan, you agree to that plan’s terms and conditions. Where you live often determines which Medicare Advantage plans are available to you. Note that it is unlawful for you to be enrolled in a Medigap plan and a Medicare Advantage plan at the same time.

Where to begin SHIBA is a state-sponsored Medicare information and assistance program and receives federal grant funding from the Administration for Community Living to provide communitybased counseling services to thousands of Oregon Medicare beneficiaries in an effort to help them understand their Medicare benefits and enrollment options. SHIBA counselors help ben-

eficiaries compare plans and enroll by using the Medicare Plan Finder tool found online at Medicare.gov/find-a-plan. Beneficiaries and their families can also use this tool to compare plans and complete their online enrollment. Here are tips from SHIBA for comparing plans: Find your insurance cards: You may need your red-whiteand-blue Medicare card to review benefit details or enroll in a new plan. If you have a Medicare Advantage or prescription drug plan, you may also need that card. Update your list of prescription drugs: Check with your doctor to make sure you understand each prescription. Is a generic available? Can you eliminate any unneeded medications? Based on your list, do you have the right plan for you? Use the Medicare.gov Plan Finder: The plan finder uses your prescription list to compare prescription drug and Medicare Advantage health plans in your area. Not all companies cover the same drugs so it’s important to have a complete list of your medications and dosages when using this tool. Contact your doctor, hospital and pharmacy before making changes: Not all health and drug plans contract or work with the same providers. If you switch plans, make sure you understand which providers you can see for the best price. Apply for help with drug costs: If you have limited income and assets, you may qualify for extra help with

prescription drug costs. SHIBA counselors can help you apply for this benefit through Social Security. In addition, SHIBA publishes an annual Medicare guide, which is available online and in print during the open enrollment period. SHIBA counselors also schedule group presentations on Medicare and related topics. For example, at a Welcome to Medicare “birthday party” in Roseburg in September, SHIBA counselors not only supplied a birthday cake, but also helped educate Oregonians age 64 and older on Medicare basics, including important enrollment deadlines, Social Security’s services, long-term care planning, and more. “Many seniors miss the deadline to sign-up for Medicare,” says Cynthia Hylton, SHIBA education and outreach team member. “Depending on each person’s unique situation, enrollment periods vary, so we encourage everyone to contact a certified SHIBA counselor to get personalized help. We try to make it fun, educational and helpful. There’s no reason that learning about Medicare – or dealing with health care, in general – has to be difficult. We want to make this as easy for people as we can.” ■

Of note

SHIBA: To meet with a counselor, contact the toll-free SHIBA Helpline at 800-7224134. You will be asked to enter your ZIP code to be connected to a program in your area. Visit oregonshiba.org to find a copy of the 2017 Oregon Guide to Medicare Insurance Plans and to find free Medicare information events or one-one-one counseling appointments available in your area. Medicare: Call 800MEDICARE (800-6334227) 24 hours a day, seven days a week to help you understand your coverage options and enroll in a plan. Use the Medicare Plan Finder tool at medicare.gov/find-aplan. Private insurance agents: Use the phonebook or internet to find a private health insurance agent in your area. These agents will be most familiar with the plans, clinics and doctors in your area. Some have advertisements in this edition. Medicare guide: See the Medicare guide in this issue to compare plans, premiums and benefits in your area.

12 LINN-BENTON EDITION

NW BOOMER & SENIOR NEWS • NOVEMBER 2016

Picture yourself living at Mennonite Village... A Not-f Not-for-Profit N ot-for ot-f or-Pr or -Profit -Pr ofit Continuing CContin ontinuing Care Car Car aree Retirement Retir etirement ement Community CComm ommunit unityy Providing Pr Prooviding Life-Enriching Life-Enriching Services Life Servic vices es 275-acree ccommunity setting,, Mennonit Mennonitee VVillage illage pr provides ovides A 275-acr ommunity in a rrural ural setting spaces levels shortt driv drivee frfrom om spacious living spac es ffor or all lev els of rretirement etirement – just a shor CCorvallis, orvallis, SSalem, alem, or EEugene. ugene. With With award-winning award-winning healthcare healthcare and landscaped grounds, Mennonitee Village beautifully landsc aped gr ounds, Mennonit Village is an inclusive inclusive community community of amazing people. people.

Mennonite Mennonite Village Village offers offers regularly regularly scheduled transportation transportation at at no cost cost to to its Village Village and Quail Quail Run residents. residents. Transportation Transportation can can be arr arranged anged ffor or a group group of rresidents esidents ttoo aattend ttend special ev events, ents, such as ccollege ollege football football games or a symphony symphony concert. concert. Additionally, Additionally dditionally,, personal transportation transportation can can be hired hired by by the hour through through our In-Home In-Home Care Care Services. Services.

• • • • •

The The wellness wellness program program at at Mennonite Mennonite Village Village encompasses encompasses the physical, physical, emotional, emotional, spiritual, spiritual, and intellectual intellectual w well-being ell-being of each resident. resident. In addition to to daily activities activities and classes offered off by fitness instructors, instructors, offer ered by residents residents enjoy enjoy playing playing pickle ball and Pétanque Pétanque (lawn (lawn bowling), bowling), putting, putting, gardening, gardening, and walking walking on miles of scenic scenic walking walking paths. paths.

Independent living homes and apartments apartments Assisted supportt aavailable Assisted living apartments apartments with care care and suppor vailable 24/7 Memory on-sitee ffoster Memory ccare, are, including rrespite espite care care and on-sit oster ccare are Skilled Skilled nursing & rehab rehab services, services, both inpatient inpatient and outpatient outpatient In-Home ounties In-Home Care Care services services in Linn, BBenton, enton, and Marion ccounties

541-928-7232 Mennonite VVillage Mennonite illage is subject subject ttoo the feder ffederal ederal FFair air HHousing ousing AAct, ct, which prohibits prohibits ““any any pr preference, efer ef erence, limita limitation, tion, or discrimina discrimination tion bec because ause of rrace, ace, ccolor, olor,, rreligion, olor eligion, se sex, x, handic handicap, ap, familial sta status, tus, or national national origin, or intention in tention ttoo mak makee such pr preference, efer ef erence, limita limitation tion or discrimina discrimination. tion.”

w www.mennonitevillage.org ww.mennonitevillage.org www.facebook.com/mennonitevillage www.facebook.com/mennonitevillage 5353 CColumbus olumbus SStreet treet SSoutheast, outheast, AAlbany, lbany, OR