Aging Well
FOR THE YOUNG AT HEART
Welcome TO THE Aging Well Guide
Picket Fence Media and Times Media Group welcome you back to our latest edition of Aging Well, our biannual guide for our readers young at heart to continue to shine in their golden years.
For our fall issue of Aging Well, we shine a spotlight on services for those “aging well,” from ukulele lessons to stretch sessions.
Seniors in South Orange County
know how to stay active, and there is always something happening with local groups and community centers. Stay on your toes with all of this helpful insight in our latest edition of Aging Well.
Dana Point makes senior living easy Senior Living
By Picket Fence Media Staff
Beautiful scenery, perfect weather, and reliable elder care and services make Dana Point an ideal home for seniors. The city of Dana Point’s website is a great place to start when looking for classes, programs, and community groups.
The social service services listed below are available at the Dana Point Community Center. Call 949-496-4252 for more information and to schedule appointments. The center is located at 34052 Del Obispo Street.
Age Well Senior Centers are social hubs, providing nutritious lunchtime meals and various daily activities. Each center operates a café, offering a casual, close-to-home setting to gather with friends and enjoy a snack. Lunch is served at 11:45 a.m. Monday through Friday. The dietician-designed, chef-crafted meals are nutritionally balanced and prepared by Age Well partner, Zest in a Bowl. Meals include a beverage, dessert and good fellowship. Free transportation is provided. A $3.50 donation is suggested. Drop-ins are welcome in the Garden Café, 8 to 9:45 a.m. Monday to Friday for coffee, tea, packaged pastries, and microwavable breakfast items.
Bagels & Binge (on episodes of “Seinfeld”) in the Garden Café from 8 to 9:45 a.m. Mondays. Bagels and other breakfast items are available.
Presented by the city of Dana Point Recreation Division, the Garden Café screens a featured film every Friday at 1 p.m. Those wishing to arrive early can line up in the hallway starting at 12:50 p.m. Seating is limited to 55 guests. Sign-in is required at the door. Movies include popcorn, candy, a beverage, and hot dogs.
Active Lifestyle excursions are sponsored by the city of Dana Point and are provided to anyone 50 and
See DANA POINT on page 24
By Picket Fence Media Staff
The city of San Clemente offers a plethora of active adult programs, like stretch and tone, community groups or line dancing with friends.
The social service services listed below are available at the Dorothy Visser Senior Center. Call 949-498-3322 for more information. The center is located at 117 Avenida Victoria.
Age Well Senior Centers are social hubs, providing nutritious lunchtime meals and various daily activities. Each center operates a café, offering a casual, close-to-home setting to gather with friends and enjoy a snack. Lunch is served Monday through Thursday from 11:45 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and Friday from noon to 1 p.m. The dietician-designed, chef-crafted meals are nutritionally balanced and prepared by Age Well partner, Zest in a Bowl.
• The Fitness Center hours are Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. and Wednesday and Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.
• The following classes are all donation-based. Strength and flexibility class is Tuesday and Thursday from 9 to 10 a.m. Chair Yoga is Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday at 2 p.m., and Mike Ward Yoga (floor) is Monday and Wednesday at 9 a.m. Wake-Up Workout With Wendy happens every Wednesday from 10:15 to 11:15 a.m.
• Wednesday Bingo starts at 1:30 p.m. Cards go on sale for $12 at 1 p.m.
• PEP 4U – Parkinson’s Exercise Program takes place on Thursdays from 10:45 to 11:45 a.m.
• A HICAP (Health Insurance Counseling and Advocacy) counselor offers unbiased free Medicare counseling every third Tuesday. Call for an appointment.
• Tops Club Inc. (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) meets on Wednesdays at 9 a.m. for weigh in, and the meeting starts at 9:15 a.m.
• On the first and third Tuesday of the month, Transitions Support Group meets from 10:30 a.m. to noon. The group focuses on life changes and losses, which occur during the aging process. Areas covered are physical, social, financial, employment, conflict, and isolation.
• Show up for line dancing on Fridays at 10 a.m. No partner is required. It is a $5 donation per person. Teacher Carrie teaches all over South Orange County and makes it easy to stay active and have fun.
• A Caregivers Discussion Group takes place the first Wednesday of every month at 10:30 a.m.
Age Well Senior Services is a nonprofit organization that provides services, resources, and programs to seniors living in South Orange County. These include meal services (delivered and at Senior Centers), transportation, Senior Center activities and programs, case management and health and wellness services. For more information, visit agewellseniorservices.org or call 949-855-8033.
Age Well Senior Services provides low-cost transportation to non-emergency medical appointments including therapy, dentistry, health education, prescription pick-ups testing, and x-rays. For more information, visit agewellseniorservices.org or call 949-855-9766.
The San Clemente Senior Mobility Program is a free service that provides San Clemente residents age 60 and older with transportation between their residences and selected San Clemente grocery stores and the Dorothy Visser Senior Center in San Clemente.
The grocery store service provides rides to the following grocery stores within San Clemente and back to senior’s residences, Monday through Thursday:
• Ralph’s, 903 S. El Camino Real
• Ralph’s, 638 Camino De Los Mares
• Ralph’s, 811 Avenida Talega
• Albertson’s, 989 Avenida Pico
• Albertson’s, 804 Avenida Pico
• Walmart, 951 Avenida Pico
• Stater Brothers, 616 Camino De Los Mares
• Trader Joe’s, 638 Camino de Los Mares
• Sprouts, 550 Camino De Estrella Unit C
This grocery store service is provided four days a week, Monday through Thursday. Service is not available Friday through Sunday or on holidays.
The senior center service provides rides between seniors’ residences and the Dorothy Visser Senior Center. This service is provided five days per week, Monday through Friday. Service is not available on
See SAN CLEMENTE on page 24
Stay active in San Juan Capistrano Senior Living
By Picket Fence Media Staff
Learn to strum a ukulele, work out or grab a meal with other active adults in San Juan Capistrano. The city of San Juan Capistrano’s website is a great place to start when looking for free activities.
The social service services listed below are available at the San Juan Capistrano Community Center. Call 949-493-5911 to schedule an appointment or register with the reception desk. The San Juan Capistrano Community Center is located at 25925 Camino Del Avion.
• A grab-n-go meal program is available for seniors ages 60 and older from Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. One frozen meal with milk or juice is provided to each person (one meal per day). Participants must reserve their meal two days in advance by calling 949-493-5921.
• The community center receives a delivery of surplus breads, tortillas, rolls, and pastries from Trader Joe’s. Items are free while quantities last. Surplus will be available on Monday after 9 a.m. (Tuesdays after a holiday). The limit is three items per person. Call ahead to check if surplus items are available.
• The law offices of Cheryl Walsh provide a free consultation (advice only) for seniors and children of seniors regarding probate, conservatorships, elder abuse, Medi-Cal, power of attorney, guardianship, wills, and other legal matters by appointment on the second Wednesday every other month from 9 to 11 a.m. Bring all relevant paperwork to the appointment.
• Community Legal Aid of SoCal is available on the first Thursday every month. Sandy Kalen provides support and services by appointment only from 9 to 11 a.m. to help people who are struggling with civil legal issues. Bring all legal documents to the appointment. Seniors may also call Kalen’s office to schedule a consultation at 714-571-5200.
• Health Insurance Counseling and Advocacy Program (HICAP) is available by appointment on the second Monday of every month with Elsie Billie.
• Free blood pressure checks are available on the third Thursday of the month from 9 to 11 a.m. in •
• The Senior Lounge by Healthy at Home. No appointment is necessary.
• Stretch and tone exercise classes happen every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 8:45 to 9:45 a.m. in the gymnasium. Please bring an exercise mat.
• Senior 60 and Older Open Basketball happens every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 10 a.m.
to Noon in the gymnasium. Cost is $2.
• Experienced walk-in mahjongg players are welcome every Friday from 1 to 3 p.m.
• Join Optum’s patient relations liaison every third Thursday of the month from 10 a.m. to noon in the Senior Lounge for candid conversations about Medicare. There will be monthly DIY craft inspiration ideas, snacks, and coffee.
• Fun workshop teaches participants how to express feelings with color on canvas, using the Zagon Method of Art4Healing while learning about color, composition, and other elements of art. This program requires a minimum of six participants per class (does not require attending every week), and there is a maximum of 10 per class. Registration is required. The workshop happens on the first Friday of every month from 10 a.m. to noon. art4healing.org
• A Grief Support drop-in group happens on the third Wednesday of every month in the Conference Room from 10 to 11:30 a.m. with group facilitator Garrett Erickson.
• Health insurance counseling and advocacy program happens every second Monday of the month from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the conference room. Come speak to an unbiased counselor who can discuss reducing out-of-pocket prescription drug costs, Medicare savings, and long-term care solutions. Bilingual counselor is available upon request.
• Alzheimer Caregiver Support Group is the first Tuesday of every month from 2:30 to 4 p.m. No appointment is necessary. The temporary location is 28632 Ortega Highway.
• Adults 50 and older can bring their own ukulele and join the fun on Thursdays from 1 to 3 p.m. Music and song lists are provided. No experience is required. All are welcome to listen in. The location is the Nydegger Building at 31421 La Matanza Street. No registration is required.
Non-Community Center-Affiliated Services:
There are special hours designated for seniors at the following stores:
• Costco Wholesale
33961 Doheny Park Road
Hours exclusively for members ages 60 and older: Tuesday and Thursday: 8 to 9 a.m.
Do
I have more than 30 years of experience helping people understand their options for Medicare
If you’d like to learn more about your options, and hear what SCAN has to offer, please give me a call.
• El Nopal Market
31451 Camino Capistrano
Special hours for seniors: 9 a.m. to noon
• Marbella Farmers Market
31109 Rancho Viejo Road
Special hours for seniors: 7 to 8 a.m.
• Vons
32401 Camino Capistrano
Special hours for seniors: 7 to 9 a.m.
• Mercado El Rey
32252 Camino Capistrano
Special hours for seniors: 7 a.m.
(Knock on door to get in. If senior shows up after 8 a.m. ask manager and he will get supplies from back.)
• North South Market
32091 Alipaz Street
Special hours for seniors: 7 to 9 a.m.
• The County Office on Aging provides seniors access to transportation for non-emergency medical appointments through Age Well Senior Services. There is a $2 service charge per one-way trip. For reservations and information, call Age Well Senior Services at 949-855-9766.
• Senior Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (SNEMT) Program provides transportation to older adults who are in need of low-cost transportation to and from medical appointments, dentists therapies, exercise programs, testing, and other health-related trips. For more information, call 1-800-510-2020.
Check the Emeritus Institute website for senior classes at Saddleback College. The mission of the Saddleback College Emeritus Institute is to promote lifelong learning by providing academically rigorous, mentally stimulating, socially engaging, and health improving courses for older adults throughout South Orange County. saddleback.edu/learning-saddleback/emeritus-institute
Atria Senior Living hosts classes and events. atriaseniorliving.com
Check the calendar of events at the San Juan Capistrano Library. ocpl.org/libraries/san-juan-capistrano
Local Knowledge
‘Join the Movement’ Volunteer-run the Village helps residents stay connected
By Jessica Reiter-Flax Executive Director San Clemente Village
Did you know that 30% of San Clemente residents are over the age of 55? California is on pace for 25% of the population to be over 55 by 2030, and the trend continues nationally, as baby boomers outpace any other generation.
As we age, maintaining an active, independent lifestyle while remaining at home becomes more important than ever. However, as we age, our mobility and pace of life also
change, and it becomes crucial that we depend on others for support.
San Clemente Village (the Village) was founded with our older residents in mind. We are a nonprofit, membership organization that provides nonmedical services to San Clemente and Capo Beach residents 55 and older. Services such as transportation, grocery shopping, errands, help around the house, pet assistance, socialization and more!
Our mission is to bring together local residents, 55 and older, to help one another enjoy an active, connected and independent lifestyle.
Local Knowledge
The Village was founded by local residents and city council members in 2014, becoming a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization in 2015, and began service delivery in 2016. We are a 100% volunteer-driven organization, meaning that all of our services are provided by well-vetted volunteers.
As executive director, I am the only staff. Our average volunteer age is 65, with our average member age at 87. Truly an organization of “Neighbors helping neighbors.”
Our volunteers will provide a record amount of services this year, surpassing 2,500,
equating to more than 5,000 volunteer hours.
Our No. 1 service requested is transportation, with socialization being a close second. With the surgeon general just declaring loneliness and isolation an epidemic, especially among older adults, the Village aims to provide meaningful social interactions and friendly visits, to help our members thrive mentally and emotionally.
We certainly can’t do this alone; it takes a “village.” We welcome anyone who is interested in joining us to volunteer, become a member or partner with us to continue to serve the older residents of San Clemente, Capo Beach and, eventually, beyond.
To join the movement, please contact: Jessica Reiter-Flax Executive Director 949-441-1348 jessicar@scvillage.org
Is it Time for Memory Care? Learn about these Early Signs.
Unlike many health conditions that develop suddenly, dementia progresses gradually and its signs can be confusing and easy to miss. Memory loss, confusion and disorientation are not the only signs that someone may be developing Alzheimer’s or another type of dementia. Symptoms can also include delusions, agitation, sleeplessness, physical changes, changes in a person’s living situation and more. No matter the specifics of your loved one’s living situation, it may start to feel that they have specialized needs that aren’t being met. This could be a sign that it’s time to explore a community that specializes in dementia care, with a staff that’s specially trained to provide the necessary care. Here are a few early warning signs that it may be time to consider moving your loved one to memory care.
You Are Constantly Worried
People with Alzheimer’s and dementia can become confused, agitated, or can wander easily, leading to dangerous situations. Reflect on how often you worry about their safety or whereabouts. If you’re checking in frequently or feeling constant anxiety about their well-being, it may be time to consider memory care.
You Notice a Decline in their Personal Hygiene
A decline in personal hygiene is often one of the top early indicators of memory loss. Signs include body odor, unwashed or wrinkled clothing, or clothing worn inside out. If grooming habits, such as shaving or hair appointments, are neglected, this could indicate they are forgetting how to perform these tasks or that they no longer recognize their importance.
They’re Neglecting their Health Needs
Medication management is one of the first things to suffer when memory loss occurs. Missing doses or taking the wrong amount can lead to serious health issues. Poor diet, missed doctor’s appointments, and eating expired food are also common signs that memory care may be needed.
You Notice Unexplained Physical Changes
Weight changes, frailty, a hunched posture, or difficulty moving can signal that their ability to navigate the world and to care for themselves is declining. For instance, they may forget to eat or may eat multiple times because they don’t remember eating earlier.
Their Living Conditions Become Unusual
Pay attention to their living space. Burn
marks, water damage, or signs of neglect, like spills or mold, can be warning signs that their mental state is deteriorating and could be an early indicator of memory loss. These are concerning safety issues that may indicate it’s no longer safe for them to live in their current environment.
If you’re curious if it’s the right time for memory care, Serra Sol Memory Care in San Juan Capistrano offers a free online assessment that may help you determine your next steps. Scan the QR Code or visit bit.ly/Memory-
CareQuiz to take the quiz and get personalized results in about four minutes. To learn more about Serra Sol Memory Care, visit SerraSol.com.
A special spot for seniors The Shea Center
By Jessica Koslow
The Shea Center for Therapeutic Riding offers opportunities for adults 55 years and older to experience its facility, which provides equine assisted services for individuals with disabilities.
Senior programs are offered Wednesday or Fridays by appointment only.
“Our senior programs provide a unique blend of physical, mental, and emotional engagement,” said Shari Masline, adaptive riding development manager and personal trainer. “Participants connect with our horses, build strength and coordination, and enjoy the peaceful environment. From socializing with our herd to exploring the barn, seniors experience firsthand the benefits of equine assisted services.”
Guests can tour the property with a staff member, learn about and observe the services offered, meet the horses, and get a behind-the-scenes look at how the barn operates. Tours are free.
The Shea Center also welcomes field trips to tour the facility, learn about equine-assisted services, and meet the horses. Field trips are $15 per visit. During a visit to the property, guests will:
• Meet members of the herd while observing program services, which include therapy treatments with a team of physical therapists, occupational therapists, and speech-language pathologists, and adaptive riding lessons taught by certified therapeutic riding instructors.
• Socialize with humans and horses.
• Learn how horses are beneficial for people with disabilities.
• Touring the 40-stall horse barn.
• Build strength and balance while feeding and grooming the therapy horses.
• Improve coordination while walking the property.
• Relax on the patio and enjoy the beautiful, pastoral, open-space environment.
Guests for tours and field trips are welcome to bring a lunch to enjoy on the patio. The facility is ADA compliant. While the terrain is varied (from concrete to non-paved), the property is mobility device accessible. Programs include traveling from the patio to the barn and back. There is seating available on the patio and at the barn. Restrooms are located by the patio and at the barn. sheacenter.org
Local Knowledge
Watermark Laguna Niguel
Modern senior living is the stylish
When you think of senior living, what comes to mind? Something dreary and boring, maybe? You’re not alone. Many of us are stuck believing in outdated notions about senior living, but it’s time to refresh our thinking. Today’s seniors are demanding more. Smart senior housing providers have stepped up to exceed expectations for upscale, resort-style properties with a wealth of elevated amenities to match.
Take Watermark Laguna Niguel, for example. This new, boutique-style assisted living and memory care community for modern
new thing
seniors features a sophisticated lifestyle that brings inspired living and wellness together in an intimate, laid-back setting. Residents also enjoy the perfect blend of tailored support that honors their personal freedom and independence.
“Human beings are all the same,” said David Barnes, Watermark Retirement Communities president.
“They all want choice. They all want flexibility. So, we’re working hard, throughout all of our communities, to provide this feeling of flexibility and choice.”
In today’s upscale senior living communities, like Watermark Laguna Niguel, no detail has been overlooked. You’ll find a pet-friendly community with refined residences and elegant living areas that are warm and welcoming. Extraordinary amenities, award-winning adult education, and inspiring opportunities are around every corner. There’s a signature restaurant with three tenured chefs, a full-service salon, and a fitness center with space for yoga, Pilates and other pursuits, a movie theater, an outdoor courtyard and garden, integrative wellness offerings, and so on.
It’s exactly what you’d expect from a luxurious getaway at your favorite boutique hotel — except this is life every day in a senior community like this.
A new resident’s family recently shared, “We moved our mom in two weeks ago and she absolutely loves it! It truly is a resort! The food is amazing, and the daily activities are exceptional! She is working out every day and says, ‘I love my new world.’ Everyone is so attentive and caring — they truly epitomize ‘above and beyond.’ … Thank you for revitalizing my mom. We are beyond grateful!”
Watermark Retirement Communities has been reimagining the concept of senior living for more than 30 years, maintaining its passion and commitment to creating extraordinary and innovative communities where people thrive.
Elevated communities like Watermark Laguna Niguel go beyond a maintenance-free lifestyle with offerings of concierge services, catering and in-residence dining, transportation service, and even move-in coordination assistance.
With expert, personalized care and opportunities for engagement and growth, it’s easy to have the lifestyle you’ve always imagined in a modern, resort-style senior living community in the heart of Orange County.
Not sounding too dreary or boring now, is it?
Watermark Laguna Niguel features refined residences for assisted living and memory care with signature dining, a wealth of resort-style amenities, enriching programs, curated wellness offerings, and personalized care. Learn more at watermarklagunaniguel.com or call 949-561-3740 to schedule a private tour.
Watermark Laguna Niguel
27762 Forbes Road, Laguna Niguel 949-561-3740
watermarklagunaniguel.com
Assisted living, memory care
RCFE license No. 306006360
In today’s upscale senior living communities, like Watermark Laguna Niguel, no detail has been overlooked. (Watermark Laguna Niguel/Submitted)
Watermark Laguna Niguel’s new, boutique-style assisted living and memory care community for modern seniors features a sophisticated lifestyle that brings inspired living and wellness together in an intimate, laid-back setting. (Watermark Laguna Niguel/Submitted)
The Shea Center offers opportunities on Wednesdays and Fridays for seniors to experience its facility. (The Shea Center/Submitted)
Come in to have an expert evaluate your hearing. At Hear Now you will receive personalized service to provide you with individual attention. Call
now to schedule your appointment.
If you or a loved one has a hearing loss, treating it early reduces the risk of dementia.
You can try the top brands right here in our office to decide which model fits you best! Call us at 949-495-3327
Dr. Maria Abramson www.hearnowoc.com
older. Discover the hidden gems and locations of Orange County. Excursions occur every other month. Seating is limited and pre-registration is required. Registration is available online at danapoint.org/recreation, in person or via a mail-in form. All departures and arrivals will be at the Dana Point Community Center.
• Drive-Up Helping Hands Distribution happens Mondays from 2:30 to 3 p.m. Food distributed is donation based and quantities vary.
• Free consultations with an attorney regarding probate, estate planning, wills and trusts, and elder law are available by appointment only on the second Wednesday of the month.
• Free food distribution for seniors is held monthly on the third Thursday of the month from 9 to 11 a.m.
• Free Medicare and insurance counseling is available on the last Tuesday of the month by appointment only from 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
• Free home assessments are available to determine the level of assistance needed to help maintain a senior’s independence as long as possible.
• Sponsored by the Monarch Beach Sunrise Rotary and the city of Dana Point, the annual free Thanksgiving luncheon for seniors features delicious traditional Thanksgiving food and entertainment. This year the luncheon is 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Nov. 23. Registration is required. To sign up, call the city of Dana Point Recreation Division at 949-248-3536.
• A driver refresher course for motorists 50 years and older is available. Call the center for more information.
Age Well Senior Services is a nonprofit organization that provides services, resources, and programs to seniors living in South Orange County. These include meal services (delivered and at senior centers), transportation, senior center activities and programs, case management and health and wellness services. For more information, visit agewellseniorservices.org or call 949-855-8033.
Age Well Senior Services provides low-cost transportation to non-emergency medical appointments including therapy, dentistry, health education, prescription pick-ups testing, and X-rays. For more information, visit agewellseniorservices.org or call 949-855-9766.
Age Well is South Orange County’s official Meals on Wheels provider. Meals on Wheels is more than a meal; it is being a part of a community that cares for the well-being of their senior neighbors. Specifically created by registered dietitian to meet the nutritional needs of older adults, each delivery consists of three meals. Daily meals include breakfast, lunch, and dinner Monday to Friday. For more information, visit agewellseniorservices.org/meals-on-wheels.
Volunteers are needed for the Meals on Wheels program as well as assisting with the lunch in the Senior Dining Room. Stop by the center weekdays from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. to fill out a volunteer application.
Senior Cuisine Delivered is a one-of-a-kind meal plan service that offers a perfect blend of variety, affordability, and convenience. It has collaborated with local restaurants to provide delicious meals at a low weekly subscription rate, which includes doorstep delivery. Senior Cuisine Delivered is delivered fresh
and ready to eat or heat and is just $10.95 per restaurant meal. Customers browse restaurant menus and explore three plan sizes. Choose a restaurant, then select a meal plan for two-, four- or six-day delivery. Experience new and delicious cuisine each week. Meals are made from nutrient-rich ingredients. Menus change weekly and are posted in advance. Once an order is placed, customers are contacted to schedule a delivery window that suits their chosen days. The delivery is free of charge. All orders are weekly subscriptions; customers must change, skip, or cancel their order before each Friday at noon.
Check the calendar of events at the Laguna Niguel Library (while Dana Point is temporarily closed for tenant enhancements). ocpl.org/libraries/laguna-niguel
Check the Emeritus Institute website for senior classes at Saddleback College. The mission of the Saddleback College Emeritus Institute is to promote lifelong learning by providing academically rigorous, mentally stimulating, socially engaging, and health improving courses for older adults throughout South Orange County. saddleback.edu/learning-saddleback/emeritus-institute
SAN CLEMENTE from page 18
weekends or holidays. Seniors residing in San Clemente will be picked up from their homes in the morning between 8 and 9:30 a.m. and transported to the center. Seniors are provided a return trip from the senior center to their homes in San Clemente between the hours of 1 and 2:30 p.m.
Age Well is South Orange County’s official Meals on Wheels provider. Meals on Wheels is more than a meal; it is being a part of a community that cares for the well-being of their senior neighbors. Specifically created by registered dietitian to meet the nutritional needs of older adults, each delivery consists of three meals. Daily Meals include breakfast, lunch, and dinner Monday through Friday. For more information, visit agewellseniorservices.org/meals-on-wheels.
San Clemente Village is a local nonprofit, volunteer based, member organization. The Village was created in 2015 to bring local residents age 55 and older together to support one another and to enjoy an active, connected, and independent life. Screened and trained volunteers provide services such as transportation, pet assistance, handyman needs, and technology assistance. In addition, Village members have access to a wide array of social and educational opportunities including yoga, bridge, dine around groups, theatre outings and cooking classes. Membership is required. For more information, visit scvillage.org or call 949-441-1348.
Check the calendar of events at the San Clemente Library. ocpl.org/libraries/san-clemente
Check the Emeritus Institute website for senior classes at Saddleback College. The mission of the Saddleback College Emeritus Institute is to promote lifelong learning by providing academically rigorous, mentally stimulating, socially engaging, and health improving courses for older adults throughout South Orange County. saddleback.edu/learning-saddleback/emeritus-institute.
Home, where your fret’s
Home, where your friends are waitin’ Here at The Seville.
If you wish you were homeward bound, you can be. The Seville, a senior living community like no other, is open and ready to welcome you home.
Make every day and every moment, count.
949.281.0915 | The-Seville.com ASSISTED LIVING | MEMORY CARE 2421 Calle Frontera | San Clemente, CA 92673
Medicare options are complicated. Understanding them shouldn’t be. AEP – It’s About Saving You Money
Calling all existing Medicare beneficiaries, are you looking to save some money on either your monthly premiums, your co-pays, or your prescription drug co-pays? Then the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) is the time for you to make a change to your current plan. All changes made during this time (10/15 – 12/7) go into effect 1/1/25. The biggest way to save money is to see if a Medicare Advantage plan would work for you. If it does meet your needs, then you cancel your Medicare Supplement and Medicare Drug plan for 2025 because the Medicare Advantage plan gives you that type of coverage and financial protection from medical bills. You’re no longer paying a premium for Medicare Supplement and a Medicare RX plan if you decide to enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan. These plans in Orange County typically have no or low premiums and are both HMO’s and PPO’s.
Regarding a “standalone” Medicare RX plan. These plans used to not have a name brand drug deductible and now most do. The annual deductible for brand name drugs is increasing up to $590 in 2025. Have your prescriptions changed since you enrolled in your current Medicare RX plan? If they’re expensive medications (the $35-$100 range or higher when you fill them) then it’s time for a review. Also, familiarize yourself with the
“Inflation Reduction Act” changes to your prescription drug coverage in 2025. It will lower your out-of-pocket drug costs, which is great news! However, as a result, your monthly Medicare RX plan premium will go up.
The Medicare Annual Enrollment Period (AEP) ends December 7th. If you’d like to schedule a no cost Medicare options review, contact my agency soon, and either I or a well-qualified Medicare broker from my team will be happy to help you.
