Senior Guide Book - Q4 2014

Just for the fun of it...

Come for lunch, laughs, and a tour!

RETIREMENT COMMUNITY

see our ad on page 1

Q4/2014 seniorguidebook.com

The Owner is out of town...and

WE ARE GIVING AWAY THE FARM

So you think we’re kidding?

Call Today and Find Out! The promotion is time limited so hurry and call to schedule a tour and come for lunch too.

Call Today 425.438.9080 425.438.9080 RETIREMENT COMMUNITY www.seniorguidebook.com

520 - 112th Street SW • Everett WA 98204 www.gardencourtretirement.com 1

How Pet Therapy Improves the Lives of Residents with Dementia and Alzheimer’s

by Kris Batiste Pets have many purposes in our lives. They bring us joy, happiness, unconditional love, protection, and many other benefits we probably don’t realize. They truly become a part of our family.

There are many benefits my dementia and Alzheimer’s residents experience in our community, when we bring in pets to interact with them. This is commonly known as pet therapy. We recently had a baby kangaroo, and her handler come in during an activities event.

You should have seen how my residents reacted in such a positive way. I can only describe it as a magical experience!

This type of pet therapy is officially called Animal- munities, to increase animal/residents interactions for health and wellness benefits. The simple act of pet-petting, brushing, and feeding animals, provides mild activity and a means to stay engaged. It can make residents feel a greater sense of purpose, and self-worth. In addition, the unconditional love of a dog or cat can be a bridge to more socialization with others.

Pet therapy began in the 1860s, but most of the studies were conducted in the 1980s and the medical community is still waiting for scientific proof.

The National Institute for Health has funded grants to study pet therapy, and the therapeutic effects on children.

As a nurse and executive director at Quail Park of Lynnwood, I personally have seen the positive results each time a pet is brought in for my dementia and Alzheimer’s residents. Below are a few of the reasons I would encourage other nurses and caregivers at communities to implement a sustained ATT program.

Studies Often times, dementia and Alzheimer’s residents feel isolated. The Human-Animal Interactions organization published a study that showed 75 percent of men and 67 percent of women who were elderly dog owners, considered their canine pets as their only friends. Other studies have found that just a few minutes a day petting or visiting with an animal decreases stress hormones, and increases the hormone of serotonin (the important hormone that regulates our mood and thinking processes).

Benefits Having ATT has many benefits. A pet can improve a loved one’s health through a little extra physical activity, and may even lower pain levels in some of your residents with arthritis. Depression in dementia and Alzheimer’s residents can be very common, especially if they are just moving into a community where their surroundings have changed. Pet therapy can give residents love and comfort, along with reducing anxiety.

At times, new residents can feel withdrawn and are not very 2

communicative. With their first interactions with pets, it can alleviate discomfort and draws them “out of their compartment shells.” ATT offers a powerful source of healing and personal connection, and provides an extra positive aspect of happiness for residents.

Many dementia and Alzheimer’s residents suffer from “Sundowners Syndrome,” where evening time brings periods of increased anger, agitation, and confusion. The nonverbal communication, and profound acceptance from pets is soothing for those who otherwise have difficulty communicating.

It can also bring back memories of residents own pets, and their positive experiences they had with them years ago.

Caregivers Whether caregivers work at senior and assisted living communities or they are just visiting their loved ones, owning a pet or just interacting with them has tremendous benefits.

I know the stresses and challenges my caregivers sometimes go through on a daily basis. Pet therapy can benefit them, whether they are a full-time caregiver or a family member visiting their mom or dad at a community.

Due to the prolonged work of taking care of others, studies have shown that caregivers are twice as likely as the general public to develop a chronic illness. When a caregiver returns home from work, greeted with a happy face, wagging tail, and happy barks, it lowers their stress and blood pressure, and increases activity, which helps their overall wellbeing and health.

Animal-Assisted Therapy ATT is just what the doctor ordered. I encourage all communities like mine to have a dog or cat to bring in during life enrichment activity sessions, or on a permanent basis. Mix it up a bit with a baby kangaroo, Alpaca, or other types of docile animals and you’ll see a big difference in how your dementia and Alzheimer’s residents react in a positive way.

I visit my home office at Living Care Lifestyles frequently, and they have their own dog named Katie on-site. Every time I’m there I can see how Katie interacts with the employees, and visitors alike. It is always an encouraging and uplifting experience.

ATT is an important aspect of assisted living, and you’ll be surprised how pet therapy is a positive step forward for your residents. Don’t be surprised if you see your own magical moments!

Kris Batiste is a nurse, and is the executive director at Quail Park of Lynnwood.

For more information, please call Kris at (425) 640-8529 or visit www.QuailParkofLynnwood.com.

SENIOR guidebook – bridging generations

Q4 / 2014 FEATURES 2 How Pet Therapy Improves the Lives of Residents with Dementia and Alzheimer’s Kris Batiste

6

Structure + Best Buddy = A Happy Resident Jamie Gettemy

8 10

Having A Licensed Nurse on Staff Saved My Mom’s Life

ADVERTISERS Front Cover

Garden Court Retirement Community – Everett

Back Cover

Mirabella – Seattle

Front Inside Cover

ERA Living: Aljoya Mercer Island, Aljoya Thornton Place – Northgate/Seattle, Ida Culver House – Broadview/Seattle, Ida Culver House – Ravenna/Seattle, The Gardens at Town Square– Bellevue, The Lakeshore – Seattle, University House – Issaquah, University House – Wallingford/Seattle

Living in a Community Connected Shelly Parks

12

The Quest for the Right Community...

What to Really Look For Mary Blakey

Back Inside Cover

14

Why Do You Stay?

Jennifer White

Center 16

Rosewood Courte – Edmonds

18

Back on the Links with the Help from Island Hospital Pain Relief Clinic

Center 17

Edmonds Landing – Edmonds

20

The High Cost of Staying in Your Home Jane Meyers-Bowen

22

Mirabella Moments Mary Worthington

23

Chateau Resident Redefines the Meaning of “Fall Risk” Tamra Godfrey & Glen Bollinger

Chateau Pacific – Lynnwood, Chateau Bothell Landing – Bothell, Chateau Valley Center – Renton

1

Garden Court Retirement Community – Everett

3

Living Care: Quail Park of Lynnwood

5

Arthritis Foundation – Seattle

7

Skagit Valley Senior Village – Burlington

9

Madison House – Kirkland

24

The Decision to Give Up Driving Sarah Bartlett

11

Cristwood – Shoreline, Crista Shores – Silverdale

26

Pets, A Part of Our Family Michael Hickey

13

Foundation House at Bothell

27

Robin Williams’ Depression was Treatable, and So is Yours Leena Suthar

15

Care Partners: Vineyard Park at Mountlake Terrace (Coming This Fall), Vineyard Park at Bothell Landing, Everett Plaza – Everett, The Cottages at Marysville, The Cottages at Mill Creek

28 29

Caring Faces

19

Island Hospital – Anacortes

21

Weatherly Inn – Kent

25

Warm Beach – Stanwood

Directory

For advertising information contact: DAVID KIERSKY, Publisher 213 V Avenue, Anacortes WA 98221 360.588.9181 d.kiersky@frontier.com JENNIFER KIERSKY BLAIR Chief Editor/Production Copyright 2014 Kiersky Publishing, Inc. All rights reserved.

Kiersky Publishing Senior Guidebook to Western Washington is published quarterly by Kiersky Publishing, Inc. The opinions, advice or statements expressed by contributing writers don’t reflect those of the editor, the publisher or of Kiersky Publishing Senior Guidebook to Western Washington. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without prior consent of the publisher. It is your responsibility to evaluate the accuracy, completeness or usefulness of any information, opinion, advice or other content contained herein. Furthermore, Kiersky Publishing, Inc. makes no representations and, to the fullest extent allowed by law, disclaims all warranties, expressed or implied, including but not limited to, warranties of merchantability and fitness for particular purposes regarding the suitability of the information; the accuracy, reliability, completeness or timeliness of the content, services or products advertised herein. The content published herein may include inaccuracies or typographical errors.

4

SENIOR guidebook – bridging generations

Chosen as O ne o f t he 21 Mos t I ncr e d i b l e T h eme d R aces

by G r e a t i s t .c o m

Add Some

Jingle to Your Holiday Season!

Tri-Cities T ri-Cit ri-Cities

Bellingham

Howard Amon Park

Skagit

November November 22

Bend B end

December Dec ember 6 Downtown

P Po orrtt Orrc ch ha arrd d

Sea attttlle e

rfront Park

Portland P ortland

December Dec ember 7

Bellingham B ellingham g

December Dec ember b 13 Po P orrttlla an nd d

Bellingham ellingham High School

Seattle S eattle

Skagit S kagit g

December Dec ember 14

December Dec emb 6 ember

Nationally Sponsored By

Spokane

T Trrii--C Cities

December Dec ember 6

Burlington Chambe Chamber of Commerce

Ri

World Trade Center

Port P ort Orchard O City Hall

Spokane S pokane

December Dec ember 6

Bend

Westlake Center

www.arthritis.org/jbr www.arthritis.org/jbr 1-888391-9389 1-888-391-9389

Structure + A Best Buddy = One Happy Resident

by Jamie Gettemy

It is very important that a caregiver for those facing Alzheimer’s or dementia, build a great deal of structure into their loved ones’ or residents’ daily lives. When there is a schedule set in place, it gives them something to look forward to, something to complete, a beginning and an end. The tasks should be simple and direct, and encourage attempts and accomplishments. Anything too complicated or discouraging can only defeat their feelings of achievement.

It might be a good idea to start the morning off with a healthy breakfast that you can both prepare together. You could then follow up the meal with a favorite television program, or tackle a puzzle, maze, or word search together. Taking turns reading books aloud to one another is another great activity. If it is an option, arrange for them to care for a pet. Due to their limited independence, getting the chance to help care for an animal can be a calming activity.

Although it is important to have structure, do make sure that their schedule is not too rigid or no time for fun. Try to do things that they always enjoyed, and that can trigger fond memories. It might be nice to regularly organize a function with friends, family, or other patients. It helps them to feel connected with past memories, and encourages new ones. If taking rides in the car used to be a favorite pastime of theirs, set off to enjoy a special view. If crunching the leaves while walking in the fall foliage was a favorite thing to do, head out for an autumn walk around the block. Maybe they are a lover of fine food, and who isn’t? If so, take them out to a special lunch or dinner. Is your loved one or resident constantly moving their fingers? Keep their hands busy by having string, twine, yarn, large crayons, and markers readily accessible.

Obstacles will most definitely present themselves, but don’t be discouraged. Anything can certainly be overcome with a little creativity. No matter what, do your best to keep them active and engaged. If you aren’t successful with an activity don’t give up on it. Just give them a five minute break, and then suggest it again. Often times, they will react differently on the second approach, and it will be successful and openly received.

Here at Skagit Valley we are dedicated to our residents, and strive to create an environment where difficult tasks are made to appear simple. Our staff approaches every situation in a loving and nonthreatening way. We understand that caring for someone with dementia is stressful and they need to feel as though our staff are not just doing a job, but that they are their buddy. We focus on complimenting our residents, and strive to make tough situations appear effortless. We feel that it’s very important to praise them and make them feel confident. We are careful to never confront or argue with a resident who has Alzheimers or dementia. Rather, we try to turn any feelings of anger or negativity into positives.

We never want our residents to feel alone, but connected to the community and our staff. Our goal is to erase any anxiety, so they are left with only feelings of contentment. We want to wash away their anger, and calm their mind and soul. The key is accepting Alzheimers or dementia, and making it work for both the resident and the caregiver.

We welcome you to come and take a tour of our community to see all of the wonderful benefits and accommodations we have to offer. To set up a tour please contact Skagit Valley Senior Village at 360755-5550 for a continuum of care; Retirement, Assisted Living, and Memory Care.

6

SENIOR guidebook – bridging generations

www.seniorguidebook.com

7

Having A Licensed Nurse On Staff Saved My Mom’s Life Independent and assisted living communities exist to promote a safe, and vibrant environment for residents. Having a nurse on staff can save lives. Licensed nurses are trained professionals that know first-hand the importance of resident care, and can assure the timely identification of acute clinical problems. Licensed nurses can optimally monitor, assess, and intervene when physical and behavioral changes occur. They are able to quickly streamline medical emergencies.

Although most states require that all assisted living communities provide sufficient staffing to meet resident’s “scheduled and unscheduled” needs on a 24-hour basis, this does not guarantee that licensed nurses are always on hand.

On-site nurses may only be on duty during the day, or “on-call.” In fact, the level of care a community offers is directly related to the number of licensed nursing hours they provide. This can make a medical emergency a life or death situation.

What Can A Registered Nurse Do That Others Can’t?

There are a variety of responsibilities for licensed nursing staff in assisted living facilities. Duties often include admission assessments, development or review of care plans, evaluation of any significant physical, mental or behavioral changes, medication management, supervision of staff and providing education to residents and staff. Typical CNA’s or Caregivers can provide only limited medical care. Licensed nurses are professionally qualified to: • Distribute medications and monitor reactions • Manage respiratory issues and monitor oxygen • Recognize changes in medical conditions and make key decisions in an emergency situation • Speak with doctors directly about prescriptions and medical situations • Communicate with outside agencies, streamlining medical care and accuracy • Provide catheter, incontinence, and colostomy care • Monitor diabetic needs 24 hours per day, provide injections, glucose monitoring, skin care and nutrition • Give direct Colostomy Care • Complete an initial screening for urinary tract infections • Manage a feeding tube for nutritional supplementation • Provide wound Care, including surgical wounds and pressure ulcers How Nurses Make a Difference One of the most common scenarios with nursing care in assisted living, evolves like this: A resident, who is usually alert, is showing signs of distress and confusion. A trained clinician should be able to pick up on unusual behaviors or symptoms in a timely manner, and request immediate physician involvement. The problem could be as simple as a urinary tract infection or as deadly as a stroke.

As a result of astute nursing observation, the assisted living facility resident can be treated quickly, avoiding further medical risk.

Education and Quality of Life During the Aging Process Licensed 24 hour nursing care at assisted living facilities can be a crucial part of the health and wellness equation for residents.

Most seniors have pre-existing medical complications. A licensed nurse can help manage, as well as educate a resident about what they can expect to experience with their particular condition. If a resident experiences a change, they can report those symptoms that the nurse has helped them to recognize. Nurses help residents take responsibility for enhancing their lifestyle, in spite of the medical challenges they may be facing.

Make sure that 24 hour licensed nursing care is an integral part of your retirement choice. Madison House, a part of Koelsch Senior Communities, recognizes the complex health conditions that many seniors experience. We believe our number one priority is caring for our residents. Utilizing 24 hour licensed nurses is key to the Koelsch mission, as we strive to help residents enjoy a life of dignity and independence. If you would like more information about Madison House or other Koelsch communities, go to http://www.koelschseniorcommunities.com/madison-house 8

SENIOR guidebook – bridging generations

www.seniorguidebook.com

9

Living In A Community Connected

by Shelly Parks

When you picture a retirement community, you don’t often think of kindergarten plays and football games. At Cristwood, however, that’s all part of life for the residents there.

Set within Cristwood Retirement Community, these independent living apartments share a campus with the King’s Schools, a pre-K through 12 Christian-based school. With our WOW (Welcome to Our World) program, residents can sit in on senior high classes, teach classes, volunteer, or even help with tutoring. Residents can often be seen tutoring the school’s junior high students, reading to preschoolers, or cheering on the home team at a sporting event. This intergenerational experience benefits the seniors, children, and families who learn from residents’ experience and expertise.

School involvement is just one way the residents of Cristwood live a more connected life. The community’s 55-acre campus is also home to Crista Ministries, a multifaceted organization that includes global missions and other good will endeavors. Those who live at Cristwood often put their talents to use, to support the ministries’ world-changing causes.

Of course, there is plenty to do right within the senior living community as well. The senior activity center is always bustling. Cristwood’s auditorium hosts wonderful performances. There is an exercise pool, stateof-the-art fitness center, spacious lounges, woodworking shop, art studio, and more. All are within Cristwood Retirement Community, and groups regularly meet for educational series, Bible study, book clubs, fitness classes, parties, or just a casual conversation. A robust activity program includes trips, music therapy, art classes, and plenty of social events.

While residents have plenty of opportunities to connect with one another, they can also connect with nature at Cristwood. When the community’s founder Mike Martin first walked onto these 55 acres in 1948, he recognized the plot of land as a precious gift. Sixty years later, the landscape at Cristwood is still spectacular. Within this woodsy Pacific Northwest setting, every stroll becomes a nature walk. Visitors who explore the community’s grounds 10

and walking trails find it hard to believe that they’re right in the greater Seattle area, just minutes from downtown and Puget Sound.

At Cristwood, a meaningful life is also a comfortable life. Cristwood’s apartments are designed for active seniors who want to live well, while doing good. These residential apartments for independent living are all regularly updated, and impeccably maintained. Residents can choose from a variety of floor plans and price ranges. They can choose from a one or two bedroom apartment complete with full kitchens, as well as studio apartments with kitchenettes. Each apartment has a private deck, and of course, all maintenance is handled by the community’s staff. On the evenings our residents want to take a night off from cooking, the dining room at Cristwood serves up delicious fare for every meal.

At Cristwood, a resident’s home goes well beyond the walls of their apartment. A fully stocked library, a community garden, a beauty and barber shop, a spacious art studio, and plenty of common areas are all right on campus.

Continuing care also means continual security. Many seniors who come to the community for independent living, find that their needs change over the years. Fortunately, Cristwood is a continuing care retirement community, which means assisted living, skilled nursing care, and memory care are also available to residents should the need arise. The community also features a rehabilitation center, where residents can receive care as they recover from surgeries or other conditions. Licensed nurses are on site every day to serve the needs of all residents.

Cristwood is part of CRISTA, a family of seven ministries that serve people all over the world. With CRISTA as its foundation, the community has an atmosphere of spirituality. People of all denominations are living together in a place of caring, and compassion. To learn more, visit cristaseniors.org, or call 206.546.7565 for a personal tour. See for yourself how seniors are living a life connected.

SENIOR guidebook – bridging generations

vee lifee Live

Cristwood. conn nnected. connected. eline, the Shoreline, Seattle’ss Shor 55-acree campus in north Seattle’ Set on a beautiful 55-acr ULVWZRRG FRQWLQXLQJ FDUH UHWLUHPHQW FRPPXQLW\ R÷HUV HOHJDQW & &ULVWZRRG FRQWLQXLQJ FDUH UHWLUHPHQW FRPPXQLW\ R÷HUV HOHJDQW LQGHSHQGHQW OLYLQJ DSDUWPHQWV ZLWK WKH DGGHG EHQHÏW RI DVVLVWHG LQGHSHQGHQW OLYLQJ DSDUWPHQWV ZLWK WKH DGGHG EHQHÏW RI DVVLVWHG care and nursing all available on the Cristwood living, memory care residents have many opportunities for continuing Here residents campus. Here where you can to live a rich and meaningful life. Discover a place where community, are a part of the community, children and families are where children be involved in our campus schools, where we’re all connected by a sense of spirituality and purpose. where we’re and where

06.546.7565 to learn more. And start living a life connected.

Call 2206.546.7565 remont Ave North F Fremont 9303 Fr 19303 98133 A 981 WA eline, W Shoreline, Shor Phone: 206.546.7565

cristaseniorliving.org

www.seniorguidebook.com

11

The Quest for the Right Community...What to Really Look for

by Mary Blakey

I hear so often from seniors, and their children, that they don’t know what to look for when they begin their search to find the right retirement community. Location might be the most important thing for one individual, while food or the look of the lobby and apartments is more important to others. As the daughter of a senior, I have looked high and low for my mother’s next home. I have discovered that finding the right community usually has very little to do with the color of the walls, or the fabric on the couch in the lobby. I’m not disregarding the importance of location, food, and amenities, when looking for a community. However, I have found that the single most important thing to look for, when you are searching for the right retirement community, are the people currently living in the community you are visiting. Granted, depending on the care needed, these priorities may change. If you or your parent has waited until “something happens,” and assistance with the activities of daily life are already needed, then the quality of care and perhaps the cost of that care could be the top priority. If you or your parent has progressing memory issues, then a community with an experienced memory care unit would be the top priority. However, if you or your parent is searching for a retirement community where one can live an independent and active life, one without the responsibilities of yard work, electric bills, and housekeeping, then observing the people who live in the community is the place to start.

There is something to be said about the honesty of seniors. They have worked hard, raised families, some have fought in wars, and most have lost loved ones. They don’t feel the need to hide their feelings, so if they are unhappy or frustrated about something, they will say it and show it. If your idea of living in a community is active and independent living, then look and see if there is anyone dozing on a couch in the lobby, or in the lobby at all. In a true active living community, there is activity and conversation in the lobby, laughter in the Bistro, and residents walking around looking for a friend or the next card game. How does the community feel when you walk in the door? Does it feel like a warehouse, or is it warm and inviting? How does it smell? How does the staff treat you? Are they relaxed and friendly, yet respectful? Most importantly, how do they treat the residents? Do they call them by name? Do the residents seem fond of the staff and vice versa? Do some of the residents come up to you and tell you how much they love the community? If this happens to you, then you have found a gem. When I was helping my mom find a community to move into, I usually knew right away if I wanted to see more the minute I stepped into the door. There were several communities where I walked in, and walked right back out again. They were either too sterile or too institutional, and the residents had vacant looks on their faces. There were others where I really liked the look of the lobby and building, but the residents didn’t look very happy. There was an immediate cold feeling, and the staff seemed detached from the residents. The residents just seemed to go from place to place without stopping to chat, laugh, or share a joke. Residents sitting side-by-side on the beautiful brocade couch never said a word to each other. Then, when I stopped in the marketing office to ask for a tour, I felt like I had landed in a used car lot, desperate to make up our minds for us, “pick an apartment, leave a deposit today.” We politely declined, and decided to keep looking. Finally, we found a community where the residents were awake and lively. You could see that the staff enjoyed interacting with the residents, and the feeling when we walked in was warm and inviting. It was at that point that it didn’t take a hard sell. We didn’t need someone to make up our minds for us…we knew this was the place for my mom to live out the rest of her days. As it turned out, the food was really good, and the apartment was perfect.

Mary Blakey is the Director of Marketing at Foundation House at Bothell.

For more information, please call Mary at 425-402-9606.

12

SENIOR guidebook – bridging generations

If living well is an art...then here is your canvas Discover the Finest in Independent Senior Living

• Month-to-month rent– no long term lease • Complimentary membership at the Northshore Senior Center – the largest senior center in the region • No move-in fees or large buy-in costs – just a refundable deposit to hold your apartment • Full sized washers & dryers in every apartment – no need to take your turn at a communal laundry room • Scrumptious food – breakfast, dinner and Sunday brunch is included • Spacious, light-filled apartments

At Foundation House at Bothell you’ll rediscover the YOU that you thought had been left behind.

With no worries about cooking, cleaning and yard work, you’ll be free to do all the things you’d planned to do when you retired. That’s why we call it “Independent Living”. You’ll have so much independence that you can plan your day any way YOU like. You could even paint that masterpiece you’ve always wanted to do.

Call us today to reserve your complimentary meal and personal tour. Mention that you saw our ad in the Senior Guidebook and receive $500 off your first month’s rent.

Please call Mary Blakey or Mallory Fisher at 425.402.9606 or send an email to mary@fhbothell.com A not-for-profit retirement community benefiting education

17502 102nd Avenue NE / Bothell WA 98011 425.402.9606 / www.fhbothell.com www.seniorguidebook.com w

13

Why Do You Stay?

by Jennifer White

As part of the interview process I frequently ask new care staff, “Why did you get into care giving?” Having spent the majority of my childhood growing up with my maternal grandparents who were born in 1910 and 1915, it was important to me that my staff were in this business for the right reason. On occasion I would be told that this was their stepping stone to a career in nursing, but more often than not came the answer, “I want to help people.”

Then, one day at an all staff meeting I decided to ask a different question. I currently have six staff members who have worked in our Specialized Memory Care building for more than 5 years each, and several more who are well on their way. What I wanted to know from them was, “Why do you stay?” More specifically, I wanted to know, “Why do you stay in this building?” The answer was unanimous, and it wasn’t the answer that I was expecting.

Where new staff tell me that they become caregivers for what they can do for the residents, my seasoned staff responded that it was about what they GET from the residents. Whoa! What? On a daily basis these folks can be yelled at, called names, struck, and kicked. These are the people who leave their own families in the early morning hours, or stay awake all through the night to clean up messes, prepare meals, and provide comfort and safety to other’s loved ones. Through all of that, this is not what they see. They see themselves as reaping the benefits of what their residents have to give them.

They delight in the hugs and laughter, and sense of family that makes up our little community. They stay for Ruth. They stay for Fred. They stay for Mary.

Then, when these people are gone, they stay for the ones that follow; the ones they have yet to learn from, but will. These wonderful caregivers give such selfless dedication on a daily basis. From dancing with them in the living room, to sitting vigil while someone is actively dying, it’s the joy and compassion they give to each of our residents that makes me so very proud to work alongside these devoted professionals.

To my veterans: Shelly, Robert, Jose, Natasha, Laarni, Hermie, Kim, and Rosa – THANK YOU!

Jennifer White is the Director of Operations for CarePartners Management Group, with five locations to serve our seniors: Vineyard Park at Mountlake Terrace, Vineyard Park Bothell, the Cottages of Mill Creek, Everett Plaza, and the Cottages at Marysville.

For more information you can email Jennifer@carepartnersliving.com, or call 425-239-5272.

14

SENIOR guidebook – bridging generations

www.seniorguidebook.com

15

Caring for the Memory Impaired for Over 14 Years See our Freshly Renovated Apartments!

425-673-2875 728 Edmonds Way s Edmonds WA 98020 s www.rosewoodcourte.com

CALL US WE CAN HELP 16

SENIOR guidebook – bridging generations

Life Lives Better at Edmonds Landing!

Can it really be different?

More than just maintenance free, at Edmonds Landing…

Retirement and Assisted Living comes to life!

Our emphasis on exceptional well-being is evident in the options available to you and it’s easy to live life to the fullest with our dedicated and talented staff ready to serve you.

It can be different...let Edmonds Landing show you how.

Schedule Your Personal Visit Today!

180 Second Ave. South, Edmonds, WA 98020 • 425-744-1181

edmondslanding.com www.seniorguidebook.com

17

Back on the Links with Help from Island Hospital Pain-Relief Clinic Pain is no stranger to Jim Brix. The 75-yearold Whidbey Island resident and retired U.S. Army officer was injured in the Vietnam war, but he says he shrugged off discomfort in his neck and upper spine for years. As the pain worsened about a decade ago and his range of motion decreased, he opted for orthopedic surgery at a Seattle hospital to ease his condition.

“Unfortunately after the surgery, the pain got worse instead of better,” says Brix. “I had difficulty doing chores, my range of motion narrowed further, and I was forced to give up golf, a pastime that I had grown to enjoy.”

According to Brix, not being able to play a round of golf with friends was the last straw.

After consulting other healthcare professionals, he concluded that more surgery was not an option for him. This led him to seek the medical advice of his primary-care physician, Oliver Stalsbroten MD, at Anacortes Family Medicine. After evaluating Brix’s condition, Dr. Stalsbroten referred him to Geoffrey Godfrey FNP, MSN at the Center for Pain Relief & Supportive Care at Island Hospital.

“Today I’m not totally free of pain, but I can do small tasks that I couldn’t before,” says Brix. “The discomfort is manageable and an increased range of motion has allowed me to take up golf again. I’m looking forward to improving my game.”

“A Seattle neurosurgeon and another pain specialist there did what they thought was all they could do, but did not rid me of my pain. It’s surprising, and rewarding for me, to find such advanced and effective care right here in a small hospital. The quality of care

by Geoffrey and Sheryl is outstanding, and a much shorter drive.”

“I incorporate a gentle, holistic approach that requires the patient to make some lifestyle modifications to return to an improved quality of life, without as much pain medication,” says Godfrey.

“Jim needn’t be a unique testimonial to our services, but others can take heart from his fortitude. I sincerely hope those suffering from chronic pain can find inspiration and hope for themselves; and envision what can be accomplished Godfrey, who is an accredited Family Nurse when your body functions properly.” Jim Practitioner and a trauma and critical care Brix could have gone to another facility, specialist, also evaluated Brix’s condition. but he chose Island Hospital for his Jim Brix is enjoying golf again.

Together they devised a treatment plan to medical care. “I really value the people gradually decrease his pain and improve his quality of life. here who have provided the treatments I needed,” he says. “They listened to me – really listened – and I believe that has made all the difference.”

“Chronic pain is an absolute detriment to a full life,” says Godfrey. “Many people in constant pain spend exorbitant amounts of money and time chasing relief from their pain. In fact, Johns Hopkins researchers estimated the total cost of pain in the U.S. at $635 billion. The total healthcare costs of pain is about half of this total. Not surprisingly, patients with chronic Geoffrey Godfrey FNP, MSN provides pain spend $5,000 to $6,000 more than others.” “Geoffrey listened to me,” care at the Center for Pain Relief & says Brix. “I paid attention to what was going on with my body and I felt Supportive Care at Island Hospital. that the pain came, in part, from soft tissue damage. My treatment regimen included use of a special salve, massage and ultrasound therapies.”

For information call (360) 299-4929, or visit www.islandhospital.org.

Brix also began regular appointments with Sheryl Kyllo, a physical therapist with Physical, Occupational & Speech Therapy at Island Hospital. These treatments, over the course of several weeks, markedly improved Brix's condition.

18

If you have chronic pain please engage your healthcare professional about a (required) referral to this program.

SENIOR guidebook – bridging generations

www.seniorguidebook.com

19

The High Cost of Staying in Your Home

by Jane E. Meyers-Bowen

We all love our homes! They are filled with memories of family and friends, celebrations, and holidays. Many times our homes serve as our palette where we can “create” with color, texture, and lighting.

Similarly, our landscaping and gardens, whether they are filled with flowers or vegetables, bring us pride and peace.

The Home Part Unfortunately, as seniors age, so do their homes. An aging home requires major investments that can be very costly. Roofs today cost $15,000- $20,000. Wiring and plumbing can equally deplete cash, that may be better used for personal care than home improvements.

Minor upkeeps are also necessary, when living in your own home.

However, seniors are only putting themselves at risk for a fall when standing on ladders to change light bulbs, carrying laundry up and down stairs, and shoveling snow. There are so many hazards that can easily be overlooked. Not having grab bars in bathrooms and railings on stairs, rooms that are poorly lighted, scatter rugs, and exposed extension and phone cords can all be found in senior’s homes. All of these situations only contribute to an unsafe environment.

According to The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, “Each year, one in every three adults age 65 and older falls. Among older adults, falls are the leading cause of both fatal and nonfatal injuries. Twenty to thirty percent of people who fall suffer moderate to severe injuries such as lacerations, hip fractures, or head traumas. These injuries can make it hard to get around or live independently, and increase the risk of early death. Falls are the most common cause of traumatic brain injuries.” Yet, falls represent the most preventable public health risk. Take Action: Survey your environment; Have your doctor review your medicines as many can have side effects of dizziness or drowsiness; Get your eyes checked; Ask if your pet may be a contributing factor to falling.

The Environment Part We have heard seniors and their families over the years describe a slow downward spiral they witnessed with their parents. It may be related to different things for different people: increasing pain from arthritis, diminishing eyesight or hearing, depression from the loss of a spouse, or giving up driving.

Over time, an individual’s activity goes down and they start to lose muscle mass, and experience strength and balance problems. They stop socializing, because they can’t hear, get a ride to church, or to the senior center. Loss of appetite contributes to not eating healthily, and they start living on high salt TV dinners or donuts. Sadly, they live in front of the TV waiting for their children to call; becoming lonely & frail.

The Community Part Recently a family friend, named Pat, who was always seen as the healthy one, suffered a massive stroke. She lived alone with her dog. She is 78, walked 3 miles every day, was active with her grandchildren, and volunteered her time in some community agencies. She had her stroke after 10:00 pm on a Monday evening, and no one found her until Wednesday afternoon around 3:00 pm. She tried to call for help but couldn’t reach the phone. By then, the time had passed when all of the miracle, stroke reversal drugs could have benefited her. As a result, she is paralyzed on the right side, and working hard to regain her speech. She knew she had a condition known as Arial Fibrillation, which could make her subject to a stroke. Everyone saw her strengths, yet overlooked her vulnerabilities.

Neighborhoods change, and seniors many times lose their friends next door or down the block. The isolation from people, and the loss of connection threatens our sense of safety and well being. That is one of the reasons retirement communities have emerged as a lifestyle. Living with others in a community setting encourages all the good things your doctor prescribes: exercise, healthy eating, socializing, using your mind, laughing, reducing your stress. Given that we are social beings, it is more fun to exercise, enjoy meals, and watch the Seahawks with family or friends. Many seniors fear the loss of their independence moving into a retirement community, but in reality seniors actually gain independence from yard work, house work, preparing food, etc. With all their new freedom, they have to time to spend it with their families and friends. They can take better care of their health, and sleep better knowing they are in a safer place.

For more information please contact Jane Meyers-Bowen at 425-438-9080, or visit website www.gardencourtretirement.com.

20

SENIOR guidebook – bridging generations

Finding the Connection Since 1989

Providing Premier Memory Care Permanent, Respite and Day Stay Available “Where it’s home and you’re family” Stop by for a tour today!

253-630-7496 15101 SE 272nd Street • Kent WA 98042 Close to Hwy 18 on Kent-Kangley www.seniorguidebook.com

21

Mirabella Moments

by Mary Worthington

One Worthington son calls Mirabella a land-locked cruise ship; the other refers to it as a five-star hotel.

Their father, Barrett, continues to call it “The Last Resort.”

It is now three years since Barrett and I first began thinking about moving to Mirabella. I was on an Alki Tour in Canada when Sainty and Jake Crossley walked into the café where I was having lunch. Noticing my name tag, she asked, “Are you related to the Worthingtons in Quilcene?” The answer was yes, and with that Sainty began to explain how she and Barrett are cousins. That was the first of what I have come to know as “Mirabella Moments.” Over the next months, I began researching the possibilities of moving into Mirabella sooner rather than later. Perusing the brochures, I became more and more enthusiastic as I read about the classes, programs, excursions, and the many amenities. Each step closer brought more joyful Mirabella moments, as I pondered this major move and new lifestyle. Brent Martin seemed to like the words, “Mirabella Moments.” This only encouraged me to notice more of them, and I took delight in reporting back to him with each new discovery.

Finally, on 12/12/12, we arrived and settled into our new home. We received a warm welcome from Barrett’s cousins, the Crossleys, my cousin Ferdie Schmitz, and many long-time acquaintances. As we met more and more people and shared our many stories over dinner, I soon became aware that “Mirabella Moments” were a common occurrence.

Our most memorable moment occurred at dinner with Creighton and Lois Depew. At one point during our dinner conversation, Lois looked at Barrett and said, “I worked for you.” Barrett blanched a bit, unsure when or where he had met her, as he had managed hundreds of people at the old Seattle First National Bank. She continued, “I was a teller at the Seaboard branch.” That narrowed the field and Lois continued with a major fact, “I was the teller who was robbed!” Barrett nodded in recognition of that significant event, as she added, “I was the first teller to give a robber the dye-pack of money.” Now Barrett knew the whole story.

Lois ended her recollection by saying, “and then I chased him down the alley!” The robber was apprehended, and from that day on Lois was invited to all of the security meetings to share her story about what to do and what not to do: “Don’t chase the robber down the alley.”

We have enjoyed sharing this story again and again, especially with Lois and Creighton’s large family. One evening we were sitting on the upper level in the Lakeview Dining Room. From our vantage point, we could see Lois’ family gathered to celebrate her birthday. Seizing the moment, Barrett politely excused himself from the table. I knew he had a plan, and minutes later he arrived at her table with a vintage Seafirst hat; a navy blue baseball cap with the bright red number “1” blazoned across the front. Lois beamed from ear to ear as Barrett placed it on her head. Lois had finally received the award she long deserved. Her “boss” proudly returned to our table.

This is one of the many stories of business connections, and friendships that we have shared over dinner. Having been involved in teaching Life Review for some twenty-five years, I am fascinated to hear the stories unfold each evening. Where were you born?

Where did you grow up? Where did you go to school? Do you have children? What was your career? Where did you live before you moved here? If asked what I like the very best about living here, I would have to say, the “Mirabella Moments.”

Mirabella Seattle is located in Seattle's South Lake Union neighborhood. Please visit mirabellaretirement.org, or call 206-254-1441 for more information.

22

SENIOR guidebook – bridging generations

Chateau Resident Redefines the Meaning of “Fall Risk”

by Tamra Godfrey and Glen Bollinger

Local senior, Glen Bollinger, marked skydiving off his bucket list at the ripe, young age of 90 this past month, proving you’re never too old! Below is Glen’s reflection on this once-in-a-lifetime experience.

When Julie (Life Enrichment Director at the Chateau) and I first discussed our interest in sky diving, I barely entertained the thought that it could happen, but by the time Julie passed the thought on to Lindsey, her assistant, the possibility started to sense reality. Lindsey’s friend’s family conducts an aviation business, including skydiving, at the Toledo, Washington airport. Not only did the deed begin to look possible, but Molly, our Executive Director, gave it her ok. Laura, our assisted living nurse, was also enchanted with the possibility, so we firmed up a date of Saturday, July 19, for Laura and me to actually sky dive.

When the July 19 date turned out to have low cloud cover, a new date of July 26 was set.

On July 26, Tamra and I rode with Molly, the 1 ¾ hour drive to the Toledo airport. Laura followed us in her car. Lindsey arrived later.

It’s a small airport that conducts sky diving as one facet of its business. Laura and I watched a movie that provided instructions and told of the risks we were about to entertain. Then we signed several sheets to waiver responsibility. Since we were jumping tandem, our master jumpers explained the actions we were expected to take, got us in our jump suits and in about 45 minutes after arrival, we (3 jumpers, 3 tandem master jumpers, and 2 photographers) walked out to our plane. I can’t speak for Laura, who seemed happily excited to be making this jump, but I had the eerie feeling that, after all these years, this couldn’t really be happening to me. With eight passengers, the plane was quite crowded. The three tandems straddled a lengthwise bench, were hooked up and ready to jump. The photographers squeezed in alongside. I’m guessing that it took 10/15 minutes to reach the 10,000 feet jumping height. Meanwhile there was a terrific view of the valley below, ringed by mountains.

St. Helens was closest, but there were good views of Rainier, Adams and Hood. We were to jump in order – a photographer first, then my tandem, Laura’s tandem, and the third tandem. I don’t know when the second photographer jumped, but it must have been fairly close to when I did. The plane’s door was fairly small, so the photographers bent down and lunged out. The three tandems, as soon as the photographers jumped, quickly took their turn to slide down from the bench onto the floor with legs outside the plane, ready for their master jumper’s push from behind. With a quick slide to the door, getting my legs hanging over the door jamb, my master jumper gave a jerk, and I finally got a taste of free falling. How to explain? We seemed to be doing all sorts of acrobatics on falling out, but my master jumper soon straightened us out so we could fall flat with arms outstretched for the first 5,000 feet (perhaps 45/50 seconds at about 125 mph). At 5,000 feet he pulled the parachute rip cord and I felt a whole new sensation in contrast to the freefall.

With the parachute open, it was a leisurely drift down, ending exactly on the landing circle. I was offered the opportunity to maneuver the chute part way down but I was satisfied just floating down and exulting in what I had just accomplished.

Would I do it again? It’s probably the biggest thrill ever, for me, and I probably would try again. Lastly, I do owe so many Chateau folks, so much, for fulfilling my dream and reducing my bucket list. Thank you, Molly, Tamra, Julie and Lindsey. You gave me above and beyond what I hardly dared hope for!

Call Chateau to see how we can help you live happier, healthier and longer today! 1-425-361-0868 www.seniorguidebook.com

23

The Decision to Give Up Driving

by Sarah Bartlett

Aging brings difficult decisions. We all grow accustomed to doing things one way for most of our lives, and it can be a tough pill to swallow when our health forces us to change our habits. A controversial problem for many aging seniors, and their families, is when to give up driving. Most Americans have seen driving as a doorway to freedom, since they were teenagers. As adults we take the privilege of driving for granted, while we go about our day-to-day lives.

Seniors sometimes choose to stop driving on their own, but others understandably hold on to the freedom for as long as they can. In those situations, seniors and family members face difficult conversations and tough revelations.

Seniors often cut back on their driving in stages. For example, they acknowledge a need to stop driving at night, or take only short, familiar trips. However, when the day comes that one’s driver’s license is taken away completely, it will most likely be an emotional one. They may be overcome with feelings of failure, dependency, confusion, and blame.

Still, the decision to encourage a senior to stop driving is ultimately one of safety. Eye problems like Macular Degeneration, glaucoma, cataracts, and the eye strain associated with aging are all common reasons why people stop driving. It is just as important to keep in mind though, that hearing, memory, and motion problems can lead to unsafe driving as well. Two common early warning signs of decreased driving ability are slower reaction time, and greater anxiety over driving. Seniors and their loved ones should monitor their driving habits when dealing with such medical issues. Some medications and medicine combinations can also make driving more dangerous.

It is never easy to help a loved one deal with the loss of driving in her or his life. The following are some general rules you can follow to ease the transition, and provide the greatest level of support possible: • Treat the loss of a license as a true loss. Downplaying the impact of losing a license will not help the senior in your life feel better about it. Listen and show emotional support, rather than trying to cheer them up.

• Make yourself available. Some seniors resist offers of transportation because they do not want to be a burden. However, you can include your loved one in a way that is more comfortable. For example, when you are doing your own grocery shopping, invite them to do theirs at the same time.

• Strengthen the social circle. Losing a driver’s license can be a blow to a person’s social life.

Seniors without a driver’s licenses may feel isolated. Check in often, and encourage your other loved ones to do the same.

• Familiarize yourself with public transportation. Depending on where a person lives, public transportation can be a fantastic alternative to driving, or can seem daunting and inconvenient.

Learn about the options available to seniors in your area, such as Dial-A-Ride, and senior discounts on buses and trains. Don’t expect the senior in your life to warm up to these options automatically.

Try to remember that trying something new can be scary!

For information about Warm Beach Senior Community, please contact Sheila Bartlett at 360-652-2645 or visit www.warmbeach.org 24

SENIOR guidebook – bridging generations

A LIFE WORTH LIVING AT WARM BEACH SENIOR COMMUNITY People notice it right away – the friendliness, the welcoming smiles, the immediate feeling of being a part of something special. That’s why so many who are 62+ years of age are eager to join our community. This is your chance to experience the fulfilling lifestyle and peace of mind provided by the area’s only full service retirement community.

At Warm Beach, you’ll experience: • Newly renovated apartments and homes • Restaurant dining with 25+ items from our made to order menu • Convenient transportation service • Indoor pool, exercise area and 22 miles of walking trails around campus • Social, recreational and spiritual activities • On-site assisted living and nursing care, if needed during lifetime

New friendships, spiritual vitality, a fulfilling retirement lifestyle, plus the breathtaking scenery of the Pacific Northwest...these are just a few of the things you will experience at Warm Beach Senior Community. But don’t wait, these homes and apartments won’t last long.

20420 Marine Drive, Stanwood WA 98292 360-652-4593 or (800) 652-6302 www.seniorguidebook.com

Visit our website to learn more about us! www.warmbeach.org 25

Pets, A Part of Our Family

by Michael Hickey

Each day residents, families, visitors, and staff stop to visit Gabriel. Some just say “hi,” some to stroke his long, lean body or rustle his ears, and then there are Gabriel’s favorites who never stop by without a treat. Regardless, to each visitor who reaches out, he is always gentle, affectionate, and happy to meet a new friend or re-connect with an old one.

On the refrigerator door at my home I have a magnet that reminds me daily of my best friend. It says, “A HOUSE IS NOT A HOME WITHOUT A DOG.” I imagine there is another magnet out there with a similar sentiment for pet lovers who sway toward the feline variety. No matter, the sentiment is so true for so many of us, and in so many homes around the world.

My canine friend, a rescued Racing Greyhound named Gabriel, is seldom absent from my side (in fact he is right beside me now as I write about him). I have the immense good fortune to be able to bring Gabriel with me every day when I come to work. He willingly, even excitedly, makes the transition from the home we share, to the “Community” where we spend the majority of our time with our extended family.

On one occasion, not long ago, Gabriel and I were visited by the daughter of one of our residents who had just passed away. This adult child was destitute over the loss of her parent, yet not quite ready to seek solace from the company of other people. I watched quietly from my spot across the room. She came into the office weeping, and went right over to Gabriel. She sat down right next to him on the floor, and nestled her face into Gabriel’s neck. Gabriel licked her tears, something I had not seen him do before…he has not proven to be much of a “kisser.” Within moments, this daughter, saddled by loss, began to giggle and murmur softly to the greyhound at her side. This heartwarming interaction between two souls went on for about five minutes, one somehow comforting the other. She then got up, and started to leave. Before walking out the door, she turned and said, “I’m better now.” I could only say, “good,” as I was overcome by the power of that experience and the connection. As she left, Gabriel curled up again, tucked his long nose under his paw, and seemed to go to sleep.

He had found his connection, and through this simple act of generosity, offered joy to one more of his human family. Later, as she continued to process her grief, Gabriel’s visitor even sent him a note of gratitude for the comfort he provided at that pivotal moment. This only exhibited further evidence of the power of a pet, in validating our human life experience.

I rescued my first Greyhound some years ago. To help her get used to me, and to other people, I brought her with me to the Senior Living Community where I worked. I immediately recognized not only the joy my beloved friend brought to the residents, but also the reciprocal joy my greyhound experienced from being a part of such a large and diverse family. This “granddog” had dozens of grandparents, and both humans and pet appeared to be energized by their relationship. As it should be with all loving relationships, the affection shared was unconditional, without judgment, and a joy to experience. I knew I had found a perfect addition to the Community.

More and more, Senior Living Communities not only encourage, but embrace pets as an integral part of the life experience at the Community.

Often, you will find “house pets” shared by everyone, and most Communities are happy to accommodate residents with their own pets.

Some communities will even provide specialized services for your Best Friend.

Including Gabriel, I have shared three rescued greyhounds with my extended families in Senior Housing. Each, just like the individuals we serve and care for, have unique personalities and are capable of enhancing the lives of everyone they touch.

Edmonds Landing Gracious Retirement & Assisted Living 180 Second Avenue South, Edmonds, WA 98020 425-744-1181 www.edmondslanding.com For more information, or to arrange a visit, contact Edmondslandingmktg@frontiermgmt.com.

26

While evaluating your Senior Housing options, if a pet is a part of your heart, and a preferred part of your lifestyle, be sure to ask about sharing your life and home with your pet at the Communities you visit.

SENIOR guidebook – bridging generations

Robin Williams’ Depression was Treatable, and So is Yours

by Leena Suthar

In news of Robin Williams’ tragic passing, conversations about suicide and depression have begun to garner more attention. Although Williams’ depression was diagnosed early on, depression among seniors is often overlooked or misjudged as “grief.” As you age, many aspects of life are prone to major changes: You have retired and no longer have the bustling of work to keep you occupied; your close friends and loved ones have started passing on; and you may have begun accruing your fair share of medical problems.

These changes can be difficult to face, but on their own they don’t lead to depression. Depression is a treatable medical condition that affects 7 million of the nation’s 39 million seniors aged 65 and older. However, 58 percent of seniors believe it is “normal” for people to get depressed as they grow older, leading only 10 percent of older adults to receive treatment for their clinical depression.

Depression is characterized by an imbalance of chemicals in the brain, and therefore should never be considered a personal weakness or a character flaw. In fact, men and women of all ages, genders, races, ethnic groups, and socioeconomic statuses can experience depression and there is no one cause to the illness. It can be attributed to genetic, biological or neurological factors; other illnesses; life changes; side effects to medications; or even a combination.

Sometimes it’s difficult to distinguish between grief and depression. Grief involves a variety of emotions, and a mix of good and bad days. So, if you’re in the middle of the grieving process, you will still experience moments of pleasure and happiness. Additionally, grief lasts for a much shorter time frame than depression.

How do you know if you’re suffering from depression? The symptoms of depression present differently in an older adult than they do in a younger person. At times, grief can evolve into clinical depression, which requires treatment. If you suffer from more than one of the following, you may be suffering from depression: • Disturbed sleep (sleeping too much or too little) • Changes in appetite (weight loss or gain) • Physical aches and pain • Lack of energy and motivation • Irritability and intolerance • Loss of interest or pleasure • Feelings of worthlessness or guilt • Difficulties with concentration or decision making • Noticeable restlessness or slow movement • Recurring thoughts of death or suicide • Changed sex drive You don’t have to experience all of these symptoms to have depression.

People experience depression in many different ways; one person may lack www.seniorguidebook.com

motivation and sleep excessively, another may develop anxiety and lose sleep. It is also important to note that although depression and sadness seem to go hand in hand, many depressed seniors claim not to feel sad at all. Instead, they complain of low motivation, lack of energy or physical problems – physical complaints such as arthritic pain or worsening headaches are actually the prevailing symptoms of depression among the elderly.

If you suspect you have depression, seek professional help and mention your concerns to your doctor. Becoming more active physically, mentally and socially also can help. Some ideas include: • Building exercise into your life: Park farther from the store; take the stairs instead of the elevator; do some light housework; or enjoy a short walk • Connect with others face-to-face as much as possible • Try to reduce your stress level by bringing your life into balance • Sleep seven to nine hours of every night • Maintain a healthy diet: Avoid too much sugar and junk food, and choose healthy, nourishing foods instead • Volunteer your time • Add a pet into your life • Learn a new skill • Create as many opportunities as you can to laugh With some of these extra activities and the professional help of your doctor, you can readily curb depression.

For more information you can email Leena Suthar at Leena.sutha@bastyr.edu 27

CARING FACES

28

Edmonds Landing – Edmonds Victoria Cole, Marketing Director 425.744.1181

Rosewood Courte – Edmonds Julia Klimchuk, Director of Nursing 425.673.2875

The Cottages At Mill Creek Laura Williams, Assistant Administrator 425.379.8276

Quail Park of Lynnwood Kris Batiste, Executive Director 425.640.8529 SENIOR guidebook – bridging generations

DIRECTORY SNOHOMISH COUNTY ARLINGTON Olympic Place Retirement & Assisted Living 20909 Olympic Place NE Arlington WA 98223 360-207-6327 EDMONDS Aegis of Edmonds Assisted Living / Alzheimer’s Memory Care 21500 - 72nd Ave West Edmonds WA 98026 425-776-3600 Edmonds Landing Assisted Living 180 Second Ave South Edmonds WA 98020 425-744-1181 Rosewood Courte Assisted Living/Alzheimer’s Memory Impaired Only 728 Edmonds Way Edmonds WA 98020 425-673-2875 Sunrise of Edmonds Assisted Living/Alzheimer’s Care 750 Edmonds Way Edmonds WA 98020 425-673-9700 EVERETT Bethany at Silver Crest Assisted Living / Nursing Home Adjacent 2131 Lake Heights Drive Everett WA 98208 425-385-2335 Cascadian Place Retirement / Independent Living 3915 Colby Avenue North Everett WA 98201 425-339-2225 Clare Bridge Silver Lake Alzheimer’s & Dementia Care 2015 Lake Heights Drive Everett WA 98208 425-337-6336 Everett Plaza Assisted Living 2204 12th Street Everett WA 98201 425-374-0170 Garden Court Retirement Community Independent and Assisted Living 520 - 112th Street SW Everett WA 98204 425-438-9080

www.seniorguidebook.com

Silverado Senior Living Everett Dementia Care Community 524 - 75th Street SE Everett WA 98203 425-348-8800 South Pointe Independent, Assisted Living 10330 4th Avenue West Everett WA 98204 425-513-5645 Washington Oakes Retirement and Assisted Living 1717 Rockefeller Ave Everett WA 98201 425-339-3300 GRANITE FALLS The Village Independent Living 302 North Alder Avenue Granite Falls WA 98252 360-691-1777 LAKE STEVENS Ashley Pointe Independent and Assisted Living 11117 - 20th Street NE Lake Stevens WA 98258 425-397-7500 LYNNWOOD Aegis of Lynnwood Assisted Living 18700 44th Avenue West Lynnwood WA 98037 425-712-9999 Chateau Pacific Indepedent / Assisted Living / Memory Care 3333 - 148th Street SW Lynnwood WA 98087 425-787-9693 Clare Bridge Lynnwood Alzheimer’s & Dementia Care 18706 - 36th Ave W Lynnwood WA 98037 425-774-3300 Fairwinds – Brighton Court Retirement/Assisted Living 6520 - 196th Street SW Lynnwood WA 98036 425-775-4440 Quail Park of Lynnwood Independent & Assisted Living / Memory Care 4015 164th Street SW Lynnwood WA 98037 425-640-8529

Scriber Gardens Independent & Assisted Living / Wellness Services 6024 200th Street SW Lynnwood WA 98036 425-673-7111

Warm Beach Senior Community Independent & Assisted Living/ Skilled Nursing 20420 Marine Drive Stanwood WA 98292 360-652-7585

MARYSVILLE Grandview Village Retirement / Assisted Living 5800 - 64th Street NE Marysville WA 98270 360-653-2223

SKILLED NURSING CARE Bethany at Pacific - Everett 425-259-5508

The Cottages at Marysville Memory Care Community 1216 Grove Street Marysville WA 98270 360-322-7561

Delta Rehab Center - Snohomish 360-568-2168

MILL CREEK The Cottages at Mill Creek Memory Care Community 13200 10th Drive SE Mill Creek WA 98012 425-379-8276

Lynnwood Manor Health Center Lynnwood 425-776-5512

MOUNTLAKE TERRACE Mountlake Terrace Plaza A Merrill Gardens Community Independent and Assisted Living 23303 - 58th Ave W Mountlake Terrace WA 98043 425-672-4673 Vineyard Park at Mountlake Terrace (coming this Fall) Independent / Assisted Living / Dementia 23008 56th Avenue West Mountlake Terrace WA 98043 425-931-2951

Bethany at Silver Lake - Everett 425-338-3000

Josephine Sunset Home - Stanwood 360-629-2126

Madeleine Villa Health Care Marysville 360-659-1259 HCR Manor Care - Lynnwood 425-775-9222 Marysville Care Center - Marysville 360-659-3926 Merry Haven Health Care Center Snohomish 360-568-3161 Regency Care Center at Arlington Arlington 360-403-8247 Regency Care Center of Monroe Monroe 360-794-4011

SKAGIT COUNTY MUKILTEO Harbour Pointe Independent and Assisted Living 10200 Harbour Place Mukilteo WA 98275 425-493-8555

ANACORTES Cap Sante Court Retirement 1111 32nd Street Anacortes,WA 98221 360-293-8088

STANWOOD Josephine Assisted Living / Nursing Home Adjacent 9901 - 272nd Place NW Stanwood WA 98292 360-629-2126

Chandler’s Square Retirement / Assisted Living 1300 “O” Avenue Anacortes WA 98221 360-293-1300

Stanwood Community & Senior Center Independent Living 7430 - 276th Street NW Stanwood WA 98292 360-629-7403

BURLINGTON Skagit Valley Senior Village Retirement / Assisted Living / Memory Care 400 Gilkey Road Burlington WA 98233 360-755-5550

29

LA CONNER La Conner Retirement Inn Independent, Assisted Living 204 North First Street La Conner WA 98257 360-466-5700

Life Care Center of Skagit Valley Skilled Nursing 1462 West SR 20 Sedro-Woolley WA 98284 360-856-6867

MOUNT VERNON The Bridge Assisted Living/Respite 301 S LaVenture Mount Vernon WA 98274 360-416-0400

WHATCOM COUNTY

Highland Greens Senior Apartments Affordable Senior Apartments 3100 N 30th St Mount Vernon WA 98273 360-848-8422 Highland Greens Cottages Senior Residences Village Court @ 3200 N 30th St Mount Vernon WA 98273 360-540-1438 Salem Village II Senior Residences 2601-2617 N LaVenture Rd Mount Vernon WA 98273 360-540-1438 Salem Village Apartments Affordable Senior Apartments 2619 N. LaVenture Rd Mount Vernon WA 98273 360-428-5662 Life Care Center of Mount Vernon Assisted Living / Skilled Nursing / Rehab / Alzheimer’s 2120 E Division Mount Vernon WA 98274 360-424-4258 Logan Creek Retirement / Independent Living 2311 E Division Mount Vernon WA 98274 360-428-0222 Mountain Glen Retirement / Assisted Living 1810 East Division Mount Vernon WA 98274 360-424-7900 SEDRO-WOOLLEY Birchview - A Memory Care Community Assisted Living / Enhanced Adult Residential Care 925 Dunlop Ave Sedro-Woolley WA 98284 360-856-1911 Country Meadow Village Retirement / Assisted Living 1501 Collins Rd Sedro-Woolley WA 98284 360-856-0404

30

BELLINGHAM Alderwood Park Licensed Skilled Nursing 2726 Alderwood Bellingham WA 98225 360-733-2322 Bellingham Health Care & Rehab Licensed Skilled Nursing / Specialized Care 1200 Birchwood Bellingham WA 98225 360-734-9295 Cordata Health Care & Rehab Center Licensed Skilled Nursing 4680 Cordata Parkway Bellingham WA 98226 360-398-1966 Highgate House Assisted Living / Specialized Care 151 & 155 East Kellogg Bellingham WA 98226 360-671-1459 Highland Care Center Licensed Skilled Nursing 2400 Samish Way Bellingham WA 98226 360-734-4800 The Leopold Retirement & Assisted Living 1224 Cornwall Ave Bellingham WA 98225 360-733-3500 Mt. Baker Care Center Licensed Skilled Nursing 2905 Connelly Ave Bellingham WA 98225 360-734-4181 Parkway Chateau Retirement / Independent Living 2818 Old Fairhaven Parkway Bellingham WA 98225 360-671-6060

Silverado Senior Living Bellingham Dementia Care Community 848 W Orchard Dr Bellingham WA 98225 360-715-1338

The Bellettini Independent & Assisted Living / 62+ 1115 108th Avenue NE Bellevue WA 98004 425-450-0800

Spring Creek Retirement, Assisted Living & Memory Care 223 E Bakerview Road Bellingham WA 98226 360-302-2275

The Garden Club Retirement / Independent Living 13350 SE 26th Street Bellevue WA 98005 425-643-7111

St. Francis Extended Health Care Licensed Skilled Nursing 3121 Squalicum Pkwy Bellingham WA 98225 360-734-6760

The Gardens at Town Square Independent, Assisted Living, Dementia Care 933 111th Avenue NE Bellevue WA 98004 425-688-1900

Summit Place at Mt. Baker Assisted Living 2901 Connelly Ave Bellingham WA 98225 360-738-8447

Sunrise of Bellevue Assisted Living & Alzheimer’s Care 15928 NE 8th Street Bellevue WA 98008 425-401-5152 Wynwood Bellevue Assisted Living Alzheimer’s & Dementia Care 1640 148th Ave SE Bellevue WA 98007 425-373-1161

ISLAND COUNTY FREELAND Maple Ridge Retirement & Assisted Living Community 1767 Alliance Avenue Freeland WA 98249 360-207-6322

BOTHELL Aegis of Bothell Assisted Living / Memory Care 10605 NE 185th Street Bothell WA 98011 425-487-3245

OAK HARBOR Harbor Tower Village Retirement / Assisted Living 100 E Whidbey Ave Oak Harbor WA 98277 360-675-2569

Chateau Bothell Landing Independent / Assisted Living / Memory Care 17543 102nd Ave. NE Bothell WA 98011 425-485-1155

Home Place Alzheimer’s & Dementia Care 171 SW 6th Ave Oak Harbor WA 98277 360-279-2555 Regency on Whidbey Assisted Living, Independent Cottages, Harbor Care 1040 & 1045 SW Kimball Dr Oak Harbor WA 98277 360-279-0933 & 360-279-2224 Summer Hill Retirement and Assisted Living 165 SW 6th Ave Oak Harbor WA 98277 360-679-1400

Rosewood Villa Retirement/Assisted Living 702 32nd Street Bellingham WA 98225 360-676-9193

KING COUNTY

Shuksan Health Care Center Licensed Skilled Nursing 1530 James Street Bellingham WA 98225 360-733-9161

BELLEVUE Aegis of Bellevue Assisted Living / Memory Care 148 102nd Ave SE Bellevue WA 98004 425-453-8100

Foundation House at Bothell Retirement / Independent Living 17502 102nd Ave NE Bothell WA 98011 425-402-9606 Life Care Center of Bothell Assisted Living/Skilled Nursing 707 228th Street SW Bothell WA 98021 425-481-8500 North Creek Retirement, Assisted Living & Memory Care 1907 201st Place SE Bothell WA 98012 425-209-0605 Riverside East Retirement / Assisted Living 10315 East Riverside Drive Bothell WA 98011 425-481-1976

SENIOR guidebook – bridging generations

Vineyard Park at Bothell Landing Independent & Assisted Living Community 10519 East Riverside Drive Bothell WA 98011 425-354-3914 BURIEN El Dorado West Retirement / Assisted Living 1010 SW 134th Street Burien WA 98146 206-248-1975 COVINGTON Covington Place Independent Senior Apartments 26906 169th Place SE Covington WA 98042 253-398-2700 ENUMCLAW High Point Village Retirement / Assisted Living 1777 High Point Street Enumclaw WA 98022 360-825-7780 FEDERAL WAY Foundation House Independent Living / Personalized Assisted Living 32290 1st Avenue S Federal Way WA 98003 253-838-8823 ISSAQUAH Aegis of Issaquah Assisted Living / Memory Care / Hospice 780 NW Juniper Street Issaquah WA 98027 425-526-6037 Spiritwood at Pine Lake Retirement / Assisted Living 3607 228th Avenue SE Issaquah WA 98029 425-313-9100 University House - Issaquah Independent &Assisted Living 22975 SE Black Nugget Road Issaquah WA 98029 425-557-4200 KENMORE Spring Estates - Kenmore Assisted Living / Memory Care 7221 NE 182nd Street Kenmore WA 98028 425-481-4200 KENT Aegis of Kent Alzheimer’s / Memory Care 10421 SE 248th Street Kent WA 98030 253-479-1768

www.seniorguidebook.com

Weatherly Inn Memory Care 15101 SE 272nd Street Kent WA 98042 253-630-7496 Farrington Court Retirement / Assisted Living 516 Kenosia Avenue Kent WA 98030 253-852-2737 KIRKLAND Aegis of Kirkland Assisted Living / Memory Care 13000 Totem Lake Boulevard Kirkland WA 98034 425-823-7272 Aegis at Totem Lake Retirement / Assisted Living / Memory Care 12629 116th Avenue NE Kirkland WA 98034 425-814-2841

REDMOND Aegis of Redmond Assisted Living / Memory Care 7480 W. Lake Sammamish Parkway NE Redmond WA 98052 425-883-4000 Fairwinds – Redmond Retirement / Assisted Living 9988 Avondale Rd NE Redmond WA 98052 425-558-4700 Peters Creek Retirement & Assisted Living 14431 Redmond Way Redmond WA 98052 425-869-2273 The Marymoor Retirement & Assisted Living 4585 W. Lake Sammamish Parkway NE Redmond WA 98052 425-556-9398

Kirkland Lodge Assisted Living 6505 Lakeview Drive NE Kirkland WA 98033 425-803-6911

RENTON Chateau Valley Center Independent / Assisted / Memory 4450 Davis Avenue S Renton WA 98055 425-251-6677

Madison House / Totem Lake Retirement / Assisted Living 12215 NE 128th Street Kirkland WA 98034 425-821-8210

Evergreen Place Retirement / Independent Living 1414 Monroe Avenue NE Renton WA 98056 425-226-3312

Merrill Gardens at Kirkland Independent & Assisted Living 201 Kirkland Avenue Kirkland WA 98033 425-285-7743

The Lodge Retirement / Assisted Living 1600 South Eagle Ridge Drive Renton WA 98055 425-793-8080

MERCER ISLAND Aljoya Mercer Island Continuing Care Retirement Community 2430 76th Avenue SE Mercer Island WA 98040 206-230-0150

Merrill Gardens at Renton Centre Independent and Assisted Living 104 Burnett Ave S Renton WA 98057 425-243-2941

Merrill Gardens at Island House Independent & Assisted Living 7810 SE 30th St Mercer Island WA 98040 206-204-5421 Sunrise of Mercer Island Assisted Living & Alzheimer’s Care 2959 76th Avenue SE Mercer Island WA 98040 206-232-6565 NORMANDY PARK Fernwood at the Park Retirement / Independent Living 17623 First Avenue S Normandy Park WA 98148 206-242-1455

SEATTLE Aegis at Northgate Memory Care 11039 17th Avenue NE Seattle WA 98125 206-440-1700 Aljoya Thornton Place - N. Seattle Continuing Care Retirement Community 450 NE 100th Street Seattle WA 98125 206-306-7920

Bridge Park Retirement/Independent Living 3204 SW Morgan Street Seattle WA 98126 206-938-6394 Cristwood Retirement Community Independent / Assisted Living / Skilled Nursing / Rehabilitation / Memory Care 19303 Fremont Avenue North Shoreline WA 98133 1-877-639-3292 Faerland Terrace Assisted Living / Alzheimer’s Care 1421 Minor Avenue Seattle WA 98101 206-624-7637 Foundation House at Northgate Independent & Assisted Living 11301 3rd Ave NE Seattle WA 98125 206-361-2758 Ida Culver House, Broadview Independent, Assisted Living, Skilled Nursing, Alzheimer’s, Dementia Care 12505 Greenwood Avenue N Seattle WA 98133 206-361-1989 Ida Culver House, Ravenna Independent & Assisted Living 2315 NE 65th Street Seattle WA 98115 206-523-7315 The Lakeshore Independent & Assisted Living 11448 Rainier Avenue S Seattle WA 98178 206-772-1200 Mirabella Independent, Assisted Living, Skilled Nursing & Memory Care 116 Fairview Ave N Seattle WA 98109 206-254-1441 Northgate Plaza A Merrill Gardens Community Independent & Assisted Living 11030 5th Ave NE Seattle WA 98125 206-388-5061 Remington Place Retirement 3025 NE 137th Street Seattle WA 98125 206-367-0369

Ballard Landmark Retirement/Assisted Living 5433 Leary Ave NW Seattle WA 98107 206-782-4000

31

the Stratford at Maple Leaf Independent, Assisted Living and Memory Care 9001 Lake City Way NE Seattle WA 98115 206-729-1200 University House, Wallingford Independent & Assisted Living 4400 Stone Way N Seattle WA 98103 206-545-8400 SHORELINE Aegis of Shoreline & Callahan House Independent, Assisted Living and Memory Care 14900 & 15100 First Avenue NE Shoreline WA 98155 206-367-6700 and 206-417-9747 Anderson House Independent / Assisted Living / Nursing & 2 Adult Family Homes 17201 15th Ave NE Shoreline WA 98155 206-364-9336 WOODINVILLE Fairwinds – Brittany Park Retirement / Assisted Living 17143 - 133rd Ave NE Woodinville WA 98072 425-402-7100 The Creekside A Merrill Gardens Community Independent Retirement Community 18200 Woodinville-Snohomish Rd NE Woodinville WA 98072 425-286-8974

KITSAP COUNTY BREMERTON Bay Pointe Assisted Living 966 Oyster Bay Court Bremerton WA 98312 360-373-9904 Marine Courte Memory Care 966 Oyster Bay Court Bremerton WA 98312 360-373-9904 PORT ORCHARD Park Vista Retirement & Assisted Living Community 2944 SE Lund Avenure Port Orchard WA 98366 360-207-6324

32

SILVERDALE Crista Shores Independent, Assisted Living 1600 NW Crista Shores Lane Silverdale WA 98383 1-800-722-4135

PIERCE COUNTY BONNEY LAKE Cedar Ridge Retirement & Assisted Living 9515 198th Avenue East Bonney Lake WA 98391 253-235-4121 GIG HARBOR Peninsula Retirement / Independent Living 3445 50th Street Court NW Gig Harbor WA 98335 253-858-4800

TACOMA Charlton Place Assisted Living 9723 South Steel St Tacoma WA 98444 253-589-1834

GRANT COUNTY MOSES LAKE Pioneer Village Independent Senior Apartments 816 E Sharon Ave Moses Lake WA 98837 509-764-7600

Merrill Gardens at Tacoma Independent & Assisted Living 7290 Rosemount Circle Tacoma WA 98465 253-617-0100

DOUGLAS COUNTY

Point Defiance Village Retirement / Independent Living 6414 N Park Way Tacoma WA 98407 253-759-8908

EAST WENATCHEE Bonaventure of East Wenatchee Assisted Living / Retirement / Memory Care 50 29th Street NW East Wenatchee WA 98802 509-255-8339

CHELAN COUNTY

THURSTON COUNTY

WENATCHEE Columbia Heights Assisted Living / Retirement 1550 Cherry Street Wenatchee WA 98801 509-255-8338

Sound Vista Village Retirement / Assisted Living 6633 McDonald Avenue Gig Harbor WA 98335 253-851-9929

LACEY Bonaventure of Lacey Retirement, Assisted Living & Memory Care 4528 Intelco Loop SE Lacey WA 98503 360-207-6320

LAKEWOOD Maple Creek Residential Care 10420 Gravelly Lake Drive SW Lakewood WA 98499 253-588-0227

Woodland Retirement & Assisted Living Community 4532 Intelco Loop SE Lacey WA 98503 360-207-6321

MILTON Alder Ridge Independent Senior Apartments 2800 Alder Street Milton WA 98354 253-878-5665

OLYMPIA Capital Place Retirement / Independent Living 700 Black Lake Boulevard Olympia WA 98502 360-357-9922

BENTON COUNTY

Mill Ridge Village Retirement / Assisted Living 607 28th Avenue Milton WA 98354 253-925-9200 PUYALLUP Meridian Hills Assisted Living 1813 South Meridian Street Puyallup WA 98371 253-841-4909 Silver Creek Retirement & Assisted Living Community 17607 91st Avenue East Puyallup WA 98375 253-236-0430 Willow Gardens Retirement / Independent Living 4502 6th Street SE Puyallup WA 98374 253-848-4430

RICHLAND Riverton Retirement / Assisted Living 1800 Bellerive Drive Richland WA 99352 509-255-8340

JEFFERSON COUNTY

CLARK COUNTY VANCOUVER Bonaventure of Salmon Creek Retirement / Assisted Living / Memory Care 13700 NE Salmon Creek Avenue Vancouver WA 98686 360-209-1932

PORT TOWNSEND Seaport Landing Retirement & Assisted Living Community 1201 Hancock Street Port Townsend WA 98368 360-207-6323

GRAYS HARBOR COUNTY HOQUIAM Channel Point Village Retirement / Assisted Living 907 K Street Hoquiam WA 98550 360-532-9000

CLALLAM PORT ANGELES Park View Villas Retirement / Assisted Living 1430 Park View Lane Port Angeles WA 98363 360-452-7222

SENIOR guidebook – bridging generations

Mirabella Mir abella Put yourself in the middle of it.