Resource guide 6 16 issuu by 50+ LifeStyles

50+ Lifestyles Resource Guide - Vol. 1, 2016

Contents HOUSING

6 8 10 11

The Many Perks of Living at The Manors New Resources for Successful Aging 3 Ways to Simplify Your Move Spotting Scams

FINANCIAL

12 13

Why a Registered Fiduciary

Current Events … and Your Money

Letter from the Publisher

elcome to volume 1, 2016 of the Long Island Resource Guide. We are very proud of receiving 2 National Awards for our indispensible source of comprehensive, accurate, and up-to-date information. Every effort has been made to Publisher, Frank C. Trotta keep our information current, but if you find changes in listings, useful resources we may not have included, or have ideas for improvements, we would appreciate hearing from you. Be sure to read 50+ Lifestyles monthly by subscription, or free, at hundreds of locations, or visit 50plusny.com to keep current on important and valuable information and community events. Please support and thank the businesses and organizations that care enough about ‘those of us 50+’ 50+ to make this valuable resource directory possible.

HEALTH

14 15 16 20 22

Protect Your Disabled Loved Ones Basic Facts About Hearing Loss

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Staying Fit After 50... and Beyond

PREPLANNING

24 26 28 29 31 31

Creating a Legacy Settling a Loved One’s Affairs Looking At Death Differently Expecting an Inheritance? Websites as a resource Offices for the Aging

A Publication of

146 South Country Road, Bellport, NY 11713 FRANK C. TROTTA, Publisher TIM EDWARDS, Executive Editor GARY P. JOYCE, Editor MARIE TROTTA, Vice President, Production/Sales Advertising Sales: EVELYN ALOISIO Graphic Artist: GREGORY JONES For Advertising Rates and Information contact Evelyn Aloisio 631-286-0058 ext 221 Evelyn@50plusNY.com

50+ Lifestyles Resource Guide - Vol. 1, 2016

Index of Services HOUSING HARBOR HOUSE & OYSTER BAY MANOR 516-558-7761 www.oysterbayseniorcampus.org......5 GRACE PLAZA 516-466-3001 ext.215 www.graceplaza.com.........................6 THE MANORS AT THE COLONY PRESERVE 631-772-6770 TheColonyPreserve.com.....................7 SADDLE COVE 631-218-0423.......................................8 CJ FLAG & SON 631-226-6868 & 800-832-3580 www.cjflagandson.com......................9 SADDLE ROCK APARTMENTS 631-563-0174......................................10 BROOKVILLE HOME CARE 516-802-7722 brookvillehomecareagency.com........11

LEISURE AND EDUCATION ISLIP ARTS COUNCIL- HONOR OUR HOMETOWN HEROES CONCERT www.isliparts.org..............................6

FINANCIAL MARK J. SNYDER & ASSOCIATES 631-289-4224 www.MarkJSnyder.com..................... .2

FIRST BANK REVERSE MORTGAGES 631-873-8277..................................... 12 BRISTOL FINANCIAL SERVICES 516-349-5555 www.BristolFinancial.com................13

HEALTH P&P MEDICAID 516-541-4770 & 516-641-7014 www.PPMEDICAID.com.....Back Cover MCGUIRE’S HEARING AIDS 631-758-3709, 631-585-1212, 631-3692808, 631-287-9226 or 631-369-2808 McGuiresHearing.com......................15 AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATION www.heart.org/AFIBAwareness........16 AGEWELL NEW YORK 1-866-586-8044 TT Y/TDD: 1-800-662-1220 agewellnewyork.com........................ 17 JOHN T. MATHER MEMORIAL HOSPITAL WOUND TREATMENT CENTER Pt. Jeff. Sta.631-474-4590; Melville: 631-249-2347 matherhospital.org........................... 18 STAIR GLIDE 631-647-8855 & 631-327-3339 www.StairGlideNY.com.................... 18 EDP DENTAL PLAN 631-272-5230 www.edpdental.com........................19 SENIORS HELPING SENIORS 6516-390-8938...................................20 MOMENTUM REHABILITATION 5631-581-6400 www.rehabmomentum.com............ 21

FREE TO 50+ COMMUNITIES Would your community like to receive 25-100 complimentary copies of 50+ Lifestyles Monthly?

Call 631-286-0058 EXT 100 Frank@50plusNY.com

MEDFORD MULTICARE CENTER 631-730-3000 www.medfordmutlicare.org............ 22 PATRIOT MOBILITY INC. 631-392-4050 www.patriotmobilityinc.com........... 23

PREPLANNING ST. MICHAEL’S CEMETERY 718-278-3240 www.stmichaelscemetery.com......... 24 LONG ISLAND COMMUNITY FOUNDATION 631-991-8800, ext.223.......................25 ET TINGER LAW FIRM 516-327-8880 and 631-673-3777, 631257-0100, 631-589-3333, 631-204-0880. trustlaw.com.....................................26 MOUNT PLEASANT CEMETERY AND CREMATORY 631-878-0482 mtpleasantcemetery.com......... .......27 GENSER DUBOW GENSER & CONA LLP 631-390-5000 www.genserlaw.com......... ...............28 ST. CHARLES RESSURECTION CEMETERIES 631-249-8700 ccbklyn.org........................ ...............29

631-286-0058 • www.50PlusNY.com

50+ Lifestyles Resource Guide - Vol. 1, 2016

Housing • Housing • Housing • Housing • Housing • Housing

Pristine Lake, Putting Green and Private Clubhouse are Among the Many Perks of Living at The Manors

rom tranquil amenities and endless activities to upscale residences and a prime location, The Manors at The Colony Preserve offers the ultimate in luxury living for active adults 55 and over. The Manors’ spectacular clubhouse is the heart of the community, showcasing an inviting great room with comfortable couches, an intimate fireplace, flat screen TVs and bar seating. Adjoining the great room, the fully equipped Life Fitness® center makes workouts truly enjoyable, with cardio machines, free-weights and circuit equipment. The club-

house also features a spacious card room where residents can enjoy their favorite games along with a number of planned social events throughout the year. When it’s time to have fun outside, residents can swim in the heated pool, relax in the tranquil whirlpool or refine their game on the putting green and bocce court. The Manors even offers numerous walking trails, as well as a 1.7-acre lake with a gazebo dock, paddle boat and row boat. The Manors features three distinct single-level condominium home models, each with two bedrooms, three bathrooms, an attached one-car garage and a private

patio or balcony. Every residence showcases a designer kitchen with granite countertops and stainless steel appliances, as well as a master suite with ample closet space and a master bath. The epitome of maintenancefree living, The Manors’ staff of service professionals maintains the premises so residents don’t need to perform chores like shoveling snow and mowing the lawn. Making life even easier, elevators are available for second-level residences. Visit The Manors for closeout pricing from $289,900 on select Phase I residences. For more info visit TheColonyPreserve.com/TheManors. 50+

Presented by the Islip Arts Council • www.isliparts.org Sponsored by National Endowment for the Arts • Sutton Agency, Ltd. Be The Spark Foundation • John C. Dunphy Foundation Northville Industries • AARP • New York State Office Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation • Fireworks by Grucci Partially supported by County of Suffolk and the Town of Islip Economic Development Corporation

50+ Lifestyles Resource Guide - Vol. 1, 2016

Housing • Housing • Housing • Housing • Housing • Housing

New Resources for Successful Aging

hat does it mean to age well? Where can older adults and their families find the perspective they need when considering how and where that process should take place? In an effort to empower individuals and their families as they address those and other related questionAmerican Seniors Housing Association (ASHA) announces the launch of a new website, ‘Where You Live Matters’ (www.WhereYouLiveMatters.org), along with a major social media outreach. Among the concerns regarding the current information accessible to senior and their families, ASHA says much of the aging content presently online is written by mar-

keters, and academic information often fails to communicate clearly. The new site is part of a larger initiative aimed at expanding the awareness of senior living through consumer education. Dr. Roger Landry, president of Masterpiece Living, appears in one of the videos on the website and offers his expertise on the benefits of a senior living community. His organization partners with senior living communities and focuses on successful aging. He says the site will serve as a valuable tool for individuals and their families as they navigate the senior housing frontier. Landry is joined by several other experts in the field of senior living

within video content on the site. Their insight offers a consultative approach for those visiting the site searching for expert advice. In developing the website and related social media, ASHA established a committee that consisted of representatives from major senior living organizations and experts Stemming in part from an abundance of retiring Baby Boomers, the senior housing industry continues to experience growth, creating a greater need for informational transparency. The site is part of a 5year strategic initiative launched by ASHA to provide seniors, adult children and others with clear, straightforward information related 50+ to senior housing.

50+ Lifestyles Resource Guide - Vol. 1, 2016

Housing • Housing • Housing • Housing • Housing • Housing

Ways to Simplify Your Move To An Active Adult Community

rom selling your old house

to settling into your new home, there’s a lot to think about when making the move into an active adult housing community. There’s more that goes into the moving process than just signing on the dotted line; here are three ways to help simplify the transition into an active adult housing community: Make a checklist: Staying organized is key. Whether you’re selling by yourself, listing with a realtor, making last minute renovations or you’re already prepared for the market, writing down your every “to do” action

will help you take care of all the fine print details and stick to your moving date schedule. Get answers to your questions: The next step is to make sure that all your questions are answered. Do you know which home type you’re looking for? Will you be living in a gated community? How close will you be to the amenities you care most about? By researching online, reading reviews, and speaking with a trusted real estate agent, you’ll be sure to have every piece of information you’ll need to make the move.

Jump into the community: Because one of the benefits of taking advantage of active adult living is the strong sense of community that comes along with it, you’ll always be sure to find new friends and experiences just around the corner. Whether you’re moving across the country or just a little ways up the road, settling into that perfect new home will be an experience you’ll never forget. To learn additional ways to ease your transition into an active adult housing community, or answer any questions you may havde about about adult communities, please 50+ visit www.55places.com.

50+ Lifestyles Resource Guide - Vol. 1, 2016

Housing • Housing • Housing • Housing • Housing • Housing

Straight Talk for Seniors: Spotting Scams

inancial scams targeting seniors have become so prevalent that they’re now considered “the crime of the 21st century.” Why? Because seniors are thought to have a significant amount of money. The National Council on Aging (NCOA) offers Straight Talk for Seniors about what to look for, and how to combat fraud and abuse. Widespread Fraud and Abuse While there is not one single collection agency for fraud reports, the Federal Trade Commission's Consumer Sentinel Network (CSN) reports more than 1.5 million fraud complaints in 2014, with losses totaling more than $1.7 bil-

lion. More than 28 perscent of the complaints were from consumers aged 60 and over. Red Flags for Seniors Scams are always changing, but here are eight tested ways seniors can protect themselves: 1. Be aware you are at risk from strangers - and those closest to you. 2. Don't isolate yourself - stay involved. 3. Always tell solicitors: “I never buy from (or give to) anyone who calls or visits me announced. Send me something in writing.” 4. Shred all receipts with your credit card number. 5. Sign up for the “Do Not Call” list and take yourself off multiple mail-

ing lists. 6. Use direct deposit for benefit checks to prevent checks from being stolen from the mailbox. 7. Never give your credit card, banking, Social Security, Medicare, or other personal information over the phone unless you initiated the call. 8. Be skeptical of all unsolicited offers and thoroughly do your research. More Information NCOA’s EconomicCheckUp website has useful tips and tools to help older adults avoid scams, manage a limited budget, save money, and more. To learn more visit www.ncoa.org and @NCOAging. 50+

50+ Lifestyles Resource Guide - Vol. 1, 2016

Financial • Financial• Financial • Financial • Financial

Mark J. Snyder, Your

‘REGISTERED FIDUCIARY’

ark Snyder is a Registered Fiduciary. Not everyone offering financial advice is one. The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) recently raised the standard for investment advice provided for retirement accounts. At Mark J. Snyder Financial Services, Inc., we have been meeting these standards since 1995. Anyone providing investment advice on a retirement account for compensation must act as a “fiduciary,” meaning such an individual must put the investor’s best interests ahead of his or her own.

What’s a Fiduciary? Most people never consider the qualifications of the person(s) managing their money. Many investors find their financial advisor through a friend’s recommendation or professional referral. Others may enter into a relationship after receiving an unsolicited sales call or dinner-seminar invitation. Some are contacted through a bank representative, accountant or insurance agent. Further, most do not know if their money is in a brokerage or advisory account. Ask yourself the following question: Wouldn’t you prefer to work

with someone bound by trust and the highest legal standards of professional care and accountability? The Registered Fiduciary certification is awarded to financial professionals who have passed the Registered Fiduciary program. They have demonstrated an ability to act as competent financial fiduciaries, have demonstrated a superior care standard by passing an annual background check, have the pertinent educational qualifications, licenses and required skills. For more info please contact our office: 631-289-4224; 50+ www.markjsnyder.com.

Age Gauge Test! Ever looked at your driver’s license and thought, “Is that really my age?” It’s time to find out how old you really feel.

1. Are you confident enough to wear the clothes and styles you love? a. Absolutely, I don’t let anything stand in the way of fashion. b. Sometimes – I’ve definitely outgrown some styles. c. Not really ... I tend to go for safe, sensible outfits. 2. Long-distance adventures or local delights: What’s your travel preference? a. The further the better – the best adventures begin with a longdistance flight. b. I love the idea of long-distance travel, but I’d have to be well prepared. c. Close to home – I don’t like veering too far. 3. What’s your first thought when someone mentions bladder sensitivity? a. It’s an old age issue – it only affects older women over 65. b. Many moms like me experience it after childbirth. c. I have it and I know it can happen to anyone, regardless of age. 4. What’s your fitness regime like? a. Intense – exercise is the highlight of my day. b. Average – I do my best to keep fit but there are challenges. c. Non-existent – I don’t feel confident enough to work out. Results: Mostly A’s: You feel younger inside than your real age. Mostly B’s: You feel exactly your age. Mostly C’s: You feel older inside than your real age. Empower yourself to live the age you want to be.

50+ Lifestyles Resource Guide - Vol. 1, 2016

Financial • Financial• Financial • Financial • Financial

Current Events… and Your Money

s all experienced investors know, the road to financial independence is often filled with various speedbumps, potholes and fender benders. As the weather heats up and the BBQs are in full swing, the summer of 2016 is potentially filled with more hazards than years past. There are a few events already on the calendar that can easily add to uncertainly for the market if they should come to fruition. First off, the Federal Reserve has reintroduced the possibility of a summer interest rate hike. Most experts felt that the Federal Reserve would not raise interest rates again until the Fall or Winter of this year or early next year However, with improved economic indicators coming out in April and May the Fed may feel confident enough to raise interest rates sooner than expected. If they do there is a possibility the market may react negatively to this action since it was widely believed the result of an interest rate hike would mean higher bor-

rowing cost for both consumers and businesses which, in turn, could slow economic growth Secondly, on June 23 the United Kingdom will vote on a referendum to decide whether they should leave the European Union. The vote is commonly known as the Brexit. The primary sup- Michael Hartzman CFP, port of Brexit comes from Bristol Financial Services those citizens who feel the United Kingdom will be best served if it is able to control its own boarders and stem the tide of immigration. The focus for most British citizens is on their security and not the economic ramifications of leaving the EU. Many economists feel that if the UK does decide to leave the EU it could potentially have a negative impact on the European markets as well as US markets for the short term. While it will take years for the UK and the EU to unwind their marriage, among (Continued on page 30)

50+ Lifestyles Resource Guide - Vol. 1, 2016

Health • Health • Health • Health • Health • Health

Pooled Trusts Help You Protect Your Disabled Loved Ones Understanding the advantages and disadvantages thoroughly and consulting with an experienced advisor is essential to ensuring access to care while protecting your assets.

trust is a way to distribute assets to a beneficiary where a trustee, or the person in control of the working trust, is assigned. There are different types of trusts that are set up for specific purposes. One type of trust is a special needs trust, which is created for beneficiaries with disabilities. Under a special needs trust, there is what is known as a pooled trust, also called a community or master trust. A pooled trust is where the trust assets of multiple individuals are combined, and then distributed proportionately. Some pooled trusts are created in order to care for the disabled beneficiaries, and others are set up just to manage money properly. Typically, these trusts are run by a nonprofit organization, and no two are identical. When setting up a pooled trust, an individual contract is written to reflect individual circumstances. When it comes to Medicaid, a pooled trust is a way to enable an individual to qualify while still being able to use their income to pay bills. Typically, to qualify for Medicaid, an individual must “spend down” their income to $825 for singles and $1,210 for couples, after a $20 income disregard. Any money above these amounts must be paid

back to Medicaid, or to other medical bills. The issue with this in New York is that the cost of living is so high, individuals are unable to pay basic bills, such as rent and utilities, on the Medicaid-allowed spend-down amount. This is the reason why many people are unable to afford to go on Medicaid, or why they do not qualify. With this in mind, pooled trusts offer a solution. A qualifying disabled individual can participate in a pooled trust by depositing the amount of their spend-down/overage amount. This can then be used to pay necessary bills, allowing the individuals to use all of their money in some fashion. There is an initial fee of $300.00, and a monthly banking and yearly fee, but, all in all, a pooled trust can allow for Medicaid coverage without a spend down. There are some other advantages in choosing a pooled trust. One, a trustee is not named as in a regular trust. There are directors of the trust who likely have experience in the area, but not a specific trustee. Sometimes, it is difficult for family members to choose a trustee, and this alleviates the pressure of having to do that. Another advantage is that a pooled trust does not require individuals to have a large amount of money as regular trusts require.

Lastly, with a pooled trust, the organization is well-versed on agency law and how Social Security insurance and Medicaid programs work. This knowledge can help the beneficiary fully understand how the programs and the trust intertwine. There are some disadvantages to a pooled trust as well. A few of the basic drawbacks include the inflexibility of the pooled trust, infrequent distribution of funds, and limitations on the types of investments it allows. However, these issues are generally specific to the pooled trust in which you choose to participate. Understanding the advantages and disadvantages thoroughly and consulting with an experienced advisor is essential to ensuring access to care while protecting your assets. P&P Medicaid Consulting, Inc. has been helping clients structure pooled trusts so that there is a reduction in monthly income overages. P&P Medicaid provides Medicaid application services. The company also provides a full range of geriatric care management services to help individuals and their families make decisions about and supervise their long-term care needs. Please contact P&P Medicaid Consulting, Inc. at 51650+ 541-4770 for more info.

50+ Lifestyles Resource Guide - Vol. 1, 2016

Health • Health • Health • Health • Health • Health

Basic Facts About Hearing Loss

bout 20 percent of Americans report some degree of hearing loss. At age 65, one out of three people suffers it, more than half of whom are either in the work force or in educational settings.

Things to Know about Hearing Loss Hearing loss is a major public health issue that is the third most common physical complaint after arthritis and heart disease. Gradual hearing loss can affect people of all ages — varying from mild to profound. Hearing loss is a sudden or gradual decrease in how well you can hear. Depending on the cause, it can be mild or severe, temporary or permanent. Congenital hearing loss means you are born without hearing, while gradual hearing loss happens over time. Hearing loss is an invisible condition; we cannot see hearing loss, only its effects. Because it is not vis-

ible, these effects may be attributed to aloofness, confusion, or personality changes. In adults, the most common causes of hearing loss are noise and aging. There is a strong relationship between age and reported hearing loss. In age-related hearing loss, known as presbycusis, changes in the inner ear that happen as you get older cause a slow but steady hearing loss. The loss may be mild or severe, and it is always permanent. In older people, a hearing loss is often confused with, or complicates, such conditions as dementia. Noise-induced hearing loss may happen slowly over time or suddenly. Being exposed to everyday noises, such as listening to very loud music, being in a noisy work environment, or using a lawn mower, can lead to hearing loss over many years. Sudden, noise-induced hearing loss from gunfire and explosions is the number one disability caused by combat. Other causes of hearing loss include earwax buildup, an object in the ear, injury to the ear or head, ear infection, a ruptured eardrum, and other conditions that affect the middle or inner ear. — The Hearing Loss Association of America; www.hearingloss.org. 50+

50+ Lifestyles Resource Guide - Vol. 1, 2016

Health • Health • Health • Health

Knowing the Signs If Someone Needs Long-Term Care Services at Home

ong-term care is a range of services and supports for those who can no longer perform everyday tasks or activities. This can happen due to a chronic illness, injury, disability or as a result of the aging process. Recognizing the signs when a loved one needs long-term care services is the first step obtaining the care and potential health care benefits to support their needs. Look for these red flags. • Losing independence. Those who have difficulty climbing stairs, getting in and out of the bath, getting dressed, cooking or feeding themselves; those experiencing hearing or vision problems; and those who become less social or inactive. • Compromised health. A disability stemming from strokes, accidents or a chronic illness such as dementia or Alzheimer’s can cause serious health issues and have long term effects. Some people recover fully from accidents, while others become less independent and more prone to reoccurring injuries.

• Cognitive impairment. If a loved one is experiencing memory loss, confusion, difficulty multi-tasking, misplacing things, repeating things, difficulty organizing and expressing thoughts, is becoming disoriented or lost in familiar places and is losing their ability to write, speak, or understand instructions. • Unsafe situation. A person may not want to admit they need help, but there may be unsafe situations. If he or she has fallen or injured themselves in some way because of their loss of ability to perform every day functions, this can be a sign. The benefits of long term care services are to ensure the person is living safely and independently in their home or community. If you think your loved one may need health care coverage that includes long term care services, call AgeWell New York for eligibility and enrollment in our Medicaid Managed Long Term Care plan, at 866-586-8044 or agewellnewyork.com.

50+ Lifestyles Resource Guide - Vol. 1, 2016

Health • Health • Health • Health • Health • Health

Zika Virus Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatment

he most common symptoms of Zika are fever, rash, joint pain, or conjunctivitis (red eyes). Other common symptoms include muscle pain and headache. The incubation period (the time from exposure to symptoms) is not known, but is likely to be a few days to a week. See your doctor or other healthcare provider if you develop a fever, rash, joint pain, or red eyes within two weeks after traveling to a place where Zika has been reported. Be sure to tell your doctor or other healthcare provider where you traveled. The illness is usually mild with

symptoms lasting for several days to a week. People usually don’t get sick enough to go to the hospital, and they very rarely die of Zika. For this reason, many people might not realize they have been infected. Once a person has been infected, he or she is likely to be protected from future infections. The symptoms of Zika are similar to those of dengue and chikungunya, diseases spread through the same mosquitoes that transmit Zika. Your doctor or other healthcare provider may order blood tests to look for Zika or other similar viruses. There is no vaccine to prevent or medicine to treat Zika virus. Treat the symptoms: Get plenty of rest; Drink fluids to prevent dehydration;

Take medicine such as acetaminophen or paracetamol to reduce fever and pain; Do not take aspirin and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) until dengue can be ruled out to reduce the risk of bleeding. If you are taking medicine for another medical condition, talk to your doctor or other healthcare provider before taking additional medication. If you have Zika, prevent mosquito bites for the first week of your illness. During the first week of infection, Zika virus can be found in the blood and passed from an infected person to a mosquito to another person. An infected mosquito can then spread the virus to other people. More information can be found 50+ at www.cdc.gov.

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Health • Health • Health

Staying Fit After 50... and Beyond

wo years ago, 66-year-old Barbara Scott weighed 208 pounds and wasn’t happy with, not only her appearance, but her health. After giving up on other weight loss methods, Scott decided to customize her approach. First, she began tracking her caloric intake every day; then, she layered on a fitness plan. She enrolled in the nation’s leading fitness program designed for older Americans and started a five-day-a-week exercise regimen. “I’ve lost 65 pounds and dramatically improved my overall health, well-being and quality of life,” said Scott. “I truly believe I’ve added years to my life expectancy and I look forward to exercising until my 90s!” If losing weight or simply getting more active is something you’ve been thinking about, there is no time like the present to get started. To avoid resolution pitfalls and find long-term success like Scott, put a plan in place following this guide: (Continued on page 30)

50+ Lifestyles Resource Guide - Vol. 1, 2016

Pre-Planning • Pre-Planning • Pre-Planning

The Long Island Community Foundation Creating a legacy and investing in the future…

he Long Island Community Foundation is a tax-exempt public charity that enables people like to easily and effectively support the causes they care about. Decide when to give: We can help you decide if it is more appropriate to establish a fund immediately, through your will, or through other planned giving strategies. Decide what to give: We can talk with you about the different kinds of assets you can use to open a fund. Choose what you want to support: Once you decide what you want to support, we take care of all administrative details and ensure that your dollars are granted to the

best run charities. “Unrestricted gifts” represent an investment in the future, allowing the Foundation to constantly respond to the changing needs of Long Island. Unrestricted funds are added to our permanent endowment and earn income that is used to support community projects in perpetuity. “Restricted gifts” can support a particular area of interest. “Donor advised funds” play an active role in directing resources to specific organizations or projects. Set up your fund today and take an immediate tax deduction. How do you want to be remembered. Many sustain their invest-

ment of time and donations by leaving a legacy through their will or estate plan. In that way, your generosity will be remembered in your community forever. With LICF it couldn’t be easier. Talk to your advisor about leaving a gift and the tax benefits associated with planned giving. Alternatively, a simple, but equally effective approach is to arrange for a bequest to the Long Island Community Foundation, which will help us ensure that whatever community challenges we face in the future, we will have the capacity to respond. The decision is yours. For more info call 50+ (631) 991-8800 ext. 223.

50+ Lifestyles Resource Guide - Vol. 1, 2016

Pre-Planning • Pre-Planning • Pre-Planning

3 Ways to Begin Settling a Loved One’s Affairs

ollowing the loss of a parent, the list of to-dos can feel overwhelming. Not only are you adjusting to life without a loved one, you may be facing a seemingly insurmountable list of tasks. From arranging services to dispersing personal possessions to taking care of yourself, it’s easy to find yourself in over your head. Especially if the passing was sudden or you didn’t have the chance to discuss the loved one’s final wishes, you may find yourself wondering where to begin. Although the specific details will vary from one family to the next, there are some common steps to consider once the memorial services are over and your attention must turn to putting their affairs to rest.

50+ Lifestyles Resource Guide - Vol. 1, 2016

Pre-Planning Process the grief. With a long list of tasks looming, you may be tempted to put yourself on auto-pilot and power through. However, failing to give yourself time to grieve and come to terms with your loss can be destructive to your mental and physical health. Seek the support of family and friends to ease your emotional burden so you are able to effectively tackle the duties that lie ahead. With the financial implications of mortgage payments looming, real estate is often one of the biggest decisions following a loved one’s death. Sell the house. With the financial implications of mortgage payments looming, real estate is often one of the biggest decisions following a loved one’s death. That was exactly the situation Becky Addison faced. She inherited her mother's home but wasn’t in the financial position to fix, maintain or own the property along with her primary residence. “One day it was my parents’ house and then suddenly it was my house. I was not prepared to be responsible physically or financially for the property,” Addison said. “There were too many repairs to be made, my husband and I lived in another county and we didn’t have the money to invest to update it. We had to get rid of it.” Since she was unsure what to do, Addison contacted HomeVestors, the largest network of independently owned and operated home buyer franchises in the U.S. with more than 65,000 houses bought since 1996. Ultimately, she received a cash payment and was able to close in just 14 days. Today, Addison is a HomeVestors franchisee and helps others just like her sell their inherited houses for cash with no repair, cleaning or closing expenses. Manage the estate. Although it is a sizeable consideration, real estate is generally just one piece of a person’s estate that must be settled following their death. Settling a parent’s business affairs following their passing can be relatively simple, but in the absence of a will, it can become more complicated. Enlisting the guidance of a qualified attorney can help you navigate probate court, if necessary, and ensure you comply with local laws as you settle any debts and distribute or dispose of personal possessions. Learn more about the real estate resources available following a loved one’s death at homevestors.com. — 50+ Family Features Photo courtesy of Getty Images

50+ Lifestyles Resource Guide - Vol. 1, 2016

Pre-Planning • Pre-Planning • Pre-Planning

3 Ways To Look At Differently

Death

By Ron Walter

here are those who just know how they’ll react if and when they have to confront their own mortality. They will freely admit that they’ll be petrified, and others are confident that they won’t be scared at all. “Perhaps they’re right, or perhaps they’re projecting how they think they’re supposed to feel,” said Ron Walter, a retired Lieutenant Colonel in the U.S. Army, successful businessman and advocate of ecumenical Franciscan spirituality. Walter, author of Theory of Everything: Franciscan Faith and Reason, (RonaldWalter.com), offers guidance. • Most people have some kind of belief system on spiritual matters, which may remain untested for years

and even decades. Whether you’re a devout Catholic, Orthodox Jew, secular Buddhist or one of the growing numbers of “spiritual but not religious,” facing death forces a renewed and often harsh look at one’s true beliefs. • Are reason and faith at odds? How do we really know what will happen to us in death? Many see the universe entailing a nearly infinite sequence of random events, leading to phenomena such as life on Earth. Most others, however, see a rhyme and reason beyond apparent chaos. • Obsessed with one religion, denomination or knowledge base? Death’s proposition may have you looking elsewhere. “I find Franciscan theology and spirituality as well positioned to integrate other fields of knowledge and spirituality,” Walter says. “When we hear ‘death,’ we’re conditioned to tremble within,” Walter says. “But when we see it for its deeper truth – involving the transformation of body, mind and spirit, recognizing the interchangeability of matter and energy – I think most of us can come away 50+ from the inevitable with greater equanimity.”

50+ Lifestyles Resource Guide - Vol. 1, 2016

Pre-Planning • Pre-Planning

3 Tips for Anyone

Expecting an Inheritance By Michael Abbot and Christopher Bennett

he odds are good that you will inherit money or assets in the coming years. And, if you’re like most people, you’ll save only half. “People need to plan for inheriting wealth to avoid the pitfalls that result in so many heirs making emotional or ill-informed decisions they later regret,” says Michael Abbott, a veteran financial consultant and CFO of The Abbott Bennett Group, (website: www.theabbottbennettgroup.com). Here are four tips for planning for an inheritance: If you inherit non-cash assets, ask questions before you liquefy.

People inherit all sorts of assets: real estate, stocks and bonds, IRAS, gold, jewelry, etc. Different types of assets have different tax burdens attached. In order to preserve as much of your inheritance as possible, you need to learn the best way to minimize the tax burden for each asset. • If you inherit a tax-deferred retirement plan, consider rolling it into an inherited IRA. Alternatives include rolling the money into an inherited IRA – one that retains the deceased’s name along with language that clearly indicates it’s inherited. Don’t mix it with your own IRA.

• One of the biggest mistakes people make is not discussing inheritance matters while everyone is still alive and well. If loved ones express a desire to talk about “what you’ll get when I’m gone,” allow them to. If you want to initiate the conversation, look for opportunities, such as when a family you know or a family in the news is dealing with 50+ estate issues.

50+ 07/16

30 (Current Events... and Your Money from page 13) other factors, it is the need to renegotiate trade agreements with other nations that would cause unrest in the short run. The concern for the rest of the European Community is how they will fare economically if the strongest member of the club walks out on them. Finally, the biggest unknown and the one with the largest ripple effect on the markets is the upcoming Presidential election. We are certainly in unchartered waters when both of the major party candidates have a less than 50 percent approval rating throughout the country. It feels like the next President of the United States will be decided by whom the voters dislike least. The choices for President could not be two more different people. Hillary Clinton received the

50+ Lifestyles Resource Guide - Vol. 1, 2016

nomination after serving as First Lady for 8 years, a Senator from the State of New York for eight years and most recently, Secretary of State. Most people have formed their opinion of her already and will decide to vote for her based on her track record and their thoughts on how she will govern. Donald Trump, on the other hand, has taken a very different route to the Republican nomination. Before running for President he was known for his success as a Real Estate developer and businessman as well as the host of a successful reality show. Those who choose to vote for him will do so based on his message of change and wanting to ban Muslins from entering the country and to build a wall to prevent Mexicans from entering the country illegally. The

wildcard in these plans is how his domestic policies possibly affect our relationships with the rest of the world, how will it affect the value of the dollar and as a result – what will be the long term effect on the markets? A tried and true axiom about the investment community is that it hates the unknown. In years past, the market and political experts would be able to predict with some certainty which way the market winds would blow based upon who was living at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue. The 2016 election presents a new set of rules as one of the candidates must be considered a wildcard as far as how he will govern. Michael Hartzman is a principle of Bristol Financial Services For info call 516-349-5555; www.bristol-financial.com. 50+

(Staying Fit After 50... and Beyond continued from page 22)

Be Honest and Realistic If you want to ensure lasting change, you must first assess your current fitness level and then implement reasonable goals to guide you on your way. Be You Whether a yogi, marathon runner or someone stepping into the gym for the first time, start with a fitness routine that works for you. SilverSneakers offers many different fitness options that help older Americans stay active and live their best life. Find the Fun Choosing activities that capture your attention is the fuel to keep you motivated. SilverSneakers’ varied offerings allow you to tailor the program to your interests, whether that be a group fitness class, tennis, yoga or weight training. Stick With It You will inevitably hit bumps in the road when starting a new routine, but be persistent! Seek new friendships on your path to well-being—peers that will celebrate your successes and provide encouragement

“SilverSneakers Fitness has changed thousands of lives by engaging participants in physical activity, as well as creating more social connections and friendships,” says Joy Powell, Chief Operating Officer Network Solutions, Healthways. “Members like Barbara Scott are the perfect example of how the program helps members maintain their lifestyle and realize overall well-being during retirement years.” More than 12 million people are eligible for the SilverSneakers Fitness benefit at no cost through leading Medicare Advantage health plans, Medicare Supplement carriers and group retiree plans. To see if you are eligible or to find a class nearby, visitwww.SilverSneakers.com. Proper planning and the right attitude can help you 50+ get and stay fit at any age. — NAPS