SENIOR LIVING 2015
COVNEWS.COM 3
NEWTON COUNTY
Senior LivingtableGuide of contents 4 6 7 7 8 10 11 12 14 14 15 16
Recommended immunizations for those over 50
18 18
Personalized funeral rites
Oral health impacts overall health How to find the right oncologist The Power of Prevention avoid growing bored in retirement most deadly cancers Cataract surgery common and effective How to eat after 50 protect yourself against stomach ulcers eye exams reveal more than just vision trouble from a late start to retirement savings Shopping for an assisted living facility
Have you prearranged your funeral?
4 COVNEWS.COM
SENIOR LIVING 2015
Rec immomm e u for niz nded tho atio se o ns ver 50
R
outine immunizations can keep people safe and healthy. Certain vaccinations can prevent diseases from producing symptoms, while others can lessen the duration of an illness or make conditions less severe.
Vaccination schedules become a way of life for parents to young children. But vaccinations aren’t just for kids, and adults should keep tabs on their immunization histories to ensure they’re up-to-date with vaccinations for their particular age group and lifestyle. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention warns that the elderly are more likely to die of a vaccine-preventable disease than other age groups. The immune system begins to decline as we age, so the body can benefit from the disease-fighting boost provided by vaccinations. Individuals at any age should discuss immunizations with their doctors, but it’s a particularly important conversation for those age 50 and older. Vaccine schedules and recommendations may vary depending on where a per-
son lives, but the following immunization recommendations are offered courtesy of the CDC. • Influenza: An annual flu shot can help prevent the nearly 36,000 deaths that occur due to flu each year in the United States. The flu vaccine is designed to combat the current strain of flu, so it is recommended anytime between September to March, which is the prime flu season. People age 50 and older should opt for the injection rather than the nasal form of the vaccine. • Tdap: This vaccine protects against tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis and is especially necessary for people who have close contact with young infants. Pertussis, or whooping cough, can be passed on to youngsters and make
them very ill. If you’ve never received a Tdap vaccine, the CDC suggests getting it at least once. Individual tetanus boosters should be received every 10 years. • Pneumococcal: Pneumococcal disease is an infection caused by the pneumococcus bacteria. It can cause pneumonia, blood infection, ear infections, and even bacterial meningitis. This vaccine is given to adults age 65 and older or to younger adults at their physicians’ discretion. • Hepatitis A: Individuals with medical, occupational or lifestyle conditions, such as healthcare workers or people with chronic liver disease, may need a two-dose series of the hepatitis A vaccine. Adults who are avid travelers to various parts of the world that may bring them in contact with animals or people who do not receive the same course of immunizations may need additional vaccines. Speak with a doctor about which immunizations are recommended before travel.
• Experienced and Professional • Cosmetic Dentistry • Family Dentistry • Childrens Dentistry • Implants • White Fillings • Crowns • Teeth Whitening • All Digital • By-Appointment Mention This Ad and Receive a Free Exam with X-Rays
1752 Highway 11 South • Mansfield, Georgia Located at the intersection of Highway 11 and Highway 142 at the “Pony”
Call to Schedule an Appointment
770-787-9008
Visit us on Thomas J. Mazzuckelli PhD, DMD
at Modern Cosmetic Dental Care
MOST INSURANCE PLANS ACCEPTED
6 COVNEWS.COM
ORAL HEALTH
IMPACTS OVERALL HEALTH A healthy mouth is good for more than just a pretty smile. Oral health can affect the entire body, making dental care more than just a cosmetic concern. Many people know that poor oral hygiene can lead to gum disease, tooth decay and even lost teeth. But are you aware that failing to brush or visit the dentist regularly also can lead to more serious health issues? According to Colgate, recent research suggests that there may be an association between oral infections, particularly gum disease, and cardiovascular disease and preterm birth. Gum disease also may make diabetes more difficult to control, since infections may cause insulin resistance and disrupt blood sugar. Your mouth also can serve as an infection source elsewhere in the body. Bacteria from your mouth can enter the bloodstream through infection sites in the gums. If your immune system is healthy, there should not be any adverse effects. However, if your immune system is compromised, these bacteria can flow to other areas of the body where they can cause infection. An example of this is oral bacteria sticking to the lining of diseased heart valves. Other links have been found between oral health and overall health. In 2010, researchers from New York University who reviewed 20 years of data on the association concluded that there is a link between gum inflammation and Alzheimer’s disease. Researchers in the UK also found a correlation. Analysis showed that a bacterium called Porphyromonas gingivalis was present in brains of those with Alzheimer’s disease but not in the samples from the brains of people who did not have Alzheimer’s. The P. gingivalis bacterium is usually associated with chronic gum disease and not dementia. Researchers also have found a possible link between gum disease and pancreatic cancer. Harvard researchers found that men with a history of gum disease had a 64 percent increased risk of pancreatic cancer compared with men who had never had gum disease, based on studies of men from 1986 through 2007. While oral health issues may lead to other conditions over time, symptoms also may be indicative of underlying conditions of which a person is unaware. Inflammation of gum tissue may be a warning sign of diabetes. Oral problems, such as lesions in the mouth, may indicate the presence of HIV/AIDS. Dentists may be the first people to diagnose illnesses patients don’t even know they have. An important step in maintaining good overall health is to include dental care in your list of preventative measures. Visit the dentist for biannual cleanings or as determined by the doctor. Do not ignore any abnormalities in the mouth. Maintain good oral hygiene at home by brushing twice a day and flossing at least once per day. Mouthwashes and rinses also may help keep teeth and gums healthy.
SENIOR LIVING 2015
SENIOR LIVING 2015
COVNEWS.COM 7
How to find the right oncologist for you The day a person is diagnosed with cancer is a life-altering moment. Many people rely on support networks made up of family and friends to help them during their cancer treatments, and such support networks can extend to patientsÕ choice of oncologists as well. Oncology is a branch of medicine involved in the diagnosis and treatment of tumors. The term ‘oncology’ is derived from the Greek word ‘onco,’ meaning bulk or mass. Upon diagnosing patients with cancer, oncologists explain the type of cancer patients have and explain the various treatment options available to patients. Oncologists also are on call to answer any questions and are often the first people patients turn to when they have questions about their disease. Taking an active role in their cancer treatment can help patients feel more in control of their situations, and patients’ choice of oncologist is one of the first big decisions they must make. • Start with a referral. Begin by speak-
•
•
ing with your primary care physician. He or she may have a list of recommended oncologists or ones affiliated with nearby hospitals. If a loved one has battled cancer in the past, ask him or her for a recommendation. Do your research. The goal is to find an oncologist who specializes in your form of cancer and has a good treatment success rate. Do not be afraid to ask about success statistics and ask for prior patients’ names so you can get their opinions on the care they received. Look up the doctor’s credentials as well. For example, HealthGrades.com provides information on malpractice and disciplinary history. Consider a group practice. As with other medical providers, some oncologists work together in full partnerships with other oncologists. Choosing this type of provider may enable you to gain the benefit of the doctorsÕ col-
The Power of Prevention You’ve likely heard the adage an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Patients looking to live a long and healthy life know taking preventive steps now is necessary to ward off many diseases in the future. This is especially true with cardiovascular disease, the leading cause of death among adults. Understanding cardiovascular disease For middle-age and mature adults, proactive steps toward prevention should be done to fight against atherosclerosis, or plaque build-up in the arteries, the main cause of cardiovascular disease. Early detection, improved health behavior and diet changes now can increase wellness benefits later. When not detected, more advanced stages of the disease can lead to more serious problems, such as stroke or heart attack. One affordable, easy and non-invasive option for patients looking to stay on the road to wellness is cardiovascular screening, such as Life Line Screening, often recommended for adults age 55 and older. This type of simple ultrasound procedure allows doctors to see inside a patient’s arteries, and along
laborative experience. Judge communication style and compassion levels. Does the doctor answer your questions in a manner that fits with your personality? Do you feel supported by the doctor and that he or she exudes empathy? Oncologists need to walk the fine line between qualified medical provider and friend. • Look into insurance coverage. While you may want to go with one particular doctor, you must investigate if your insurance covers that particular oncologist. Otherwise, out-of-pocket expenses may be considerably high. • Look into the hospital. Consider the quality of care at the hospital where the oncologist will treat you as a patient. Hospital quality can matter based on the type of care given, proximity to the patient’s home and reputation. A qualified, compassionate oncologist can make it easier to navigate a cancer diagnosis. •
Screenings help identify risk of stroke, heart disease
with doctor checkups, can sniff out certain health issues before they become more serious. These vascular screenings can be a beneficial choice for patients in the right age range and with key risk factors (and screening data shows that more than 70 percent of the population over age 55 have two or more of these risk factors before their screening). Patients can then work with their doctors to put preventive strategies in place. New studies prove screening’s benefit A growing body of research supports this logical approach to fight disease. A 40-year study recently published in the Journal of the American Medical Association showed community-based integrated programming improved the health of residents and reduced hospitalization. Similarly, a study in South Korea may have set the standard for the future. There, a nationwide study found that health screenings were linked to lower rates of cardiovascular disease and helped patients better identify heart-related conditions and events. To best prevent cardiovascular disease one must find it early, before the person is
symptomatic, so the individual can be more accurately placed in the proper risk category. That is where ultrasound screening plays its special role. A study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology, looked at ultrasound testing to identify blockages in carotid (neck) arteries in people who were healthy but at-risk, and found that detection of “subclinical” disease improved overall risk prediction. Vascular screening may also motivate healthier behaviors in those screened because people get to “see” inside their body and understand their true health status. Life Line Screening examined a sample of American adults who underwent screenings. The research showed that those screened engaged in healthier behaviors. In fact, 76 percent of participants reported improved diets, 60 percent increased the amount of exercise and 73 percent reported maintenance of a healthy weight or weight loss following the screening. For more information about preventive screening for you or a loved one, visit www. lifelinescreening.com.
8 COVNEWS.COM
SENIOR LIVING 2015
How to avoid growing bored in retirement From the moment young men and women first walk into the office for their first day as a working professional until the day they officially retire, the notion of planning for retirement is never far from their minds. But when the day to hang up the briefcase and donate all those business suits arrives, some retirees wonder what to do next. Some retirees know exactly how they will spend their days when they no longer have to work, while others who decide to play it by ear may find themselves battling boredom. For those among the latter group, it’s important to understand that many retirees find themselves bored once they no longer have to focus on a career. Jobs keep men and women busy and provide a sense of purpose in their lives, so it’s understandable that retirees feel bored once those jobs are no longer a part of their lives. But just because you no longer have an office to go to every day does not mean life cannot be as fulfilling or even more fulfilling than it was when you were still working. You just need to find something to avoid succumbing to retirement boredom. Work part-time. Though it might seem odd to start working right after you retire, a part-time job can provide the type of structure you have grown accustomed to without all of the responsibility that comes with a full-time career. Part-time jobs can range from consultancy work that makes use of your professional experience to something entirely different like landscape maintenance at a nearby golf course that gets you out of the house and enjoying the warmer seasons. Whichever you choose, make sure it’s something you find fun and interesting. Embrace a new hobby. Working professionals often say they wish they had time to pursue a hobby. Now that you are retired, you have all the time in the world to do just that. Whether it’s perfecting your golf game, writing that novel, learning to cook like a gourmet chef or whatever else you might have always wanted to do, retirement is a great time to do it. Get in shape. If retirement boredom has started to negatively affect your mood, one great way to conquer your boredom and improve your mood at the same time is to start exercising. Exercise is a natural mood enhancer. When the body exercises, it releases chemicals knowns as endorphins, which trigger positive feelings in the body. In addition, regular exercise has been shown to reduce stress, boost selfesteem and improve sleep. Working out at a gym also is a great way to meet fellow retirees in your community, and the energy you have after exercising may give you the boost you need to pursue other hobbies. Volunteer. If a part-time job is not up your alley, then consider volunteering in your community. Volunteers are always in demand, and volunteering with a local charity can provide a sense of purpose and provide opportunities to meet like-minded fellow retirees, all while helping to quell your boredom. Retirees who love to travel can combine their passion for volunteering with their love of travel by signing up to work with an international relief organization that travels abroad to help the less fortunate.
10 COVNEWS.COM
5 MOST
SENIOR LIVING 2015
DEADLY CANCERS
Cancer has surpassed heart disease as the foremost cause of death for people in North America. A cancer diagnosis can be life-altering. Although there are many successful treatments for cancer, there is no definitive cure. Plus, certain cancers continue to be more ominous than others. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there are more than 100 types of cancer, characterized by their location in the body and abnormal cell growth in that area. Millions of dollars have been raised and spent on cancer research and finding new and innovative methods of treatment. Although the five-year survival rate for those with cancer in the United States has improved considerably over the last three decades, the National Cancer Institute still lists many cancers as the primary killers of many people. Here is the most recent classification of the five cancers that claim the most lives each year.
1
Lung cancer: Lung cancer is responsible for more deaths than any other cancer. Roughly 160,000 people succumb to lung and bronchial-related cancers each year. Although it is the most deadly, it is also the most preventable, as many cases of lung cancer are the result of certain lifestyle choices. Quitting smoking is the single most effective way to reduce your risk of lung cancer.
2 3 4 5
Colorectal cancer: In 2008, 52,857 Americans died from colorectal cancer, says the CDC. Most cases of colorectal cancer begin with groupings of small, benign cells called polyps that over time become cancerous. Screening is necessary to check for cancer of the colon and rectum, but because they are embarrassed and uncomfortable, many people avoid preventive measures. Breast cancer: The second most common cancer in women, breast cancer can affect both sexes. It is also the most deadly cancer among women, with roughly 35 percent of the cases in the United States resulting in fatality. Pancreatic cancer: The pancreas aids in digestion and metabolism. This cancer is deadly because it is difficult to detect in its early stages, as it does not always produce symptoms and the cancer tends to progress rapidly. Pancreatic cancer claims around 40,000 lives each year. Prostate cancer: Prostate cancer is exclusive to men and is the second-leading cause of cancer deaths among them, according to the NCI. This type of cancer forms in the prostate, a gland that produces seminal fluid that carries sperm. It is estimated that 28,000 men will die from prostate cancer in 2012. Although many cancers are fatal, survival rates are improving. Thousands of people diagnosed with cancer beat the odds and go on to live healthy, disease-free lives.
SENIOR LIVING 2015
COVNEWS.COM 11
Cataract surgery common and effective As men and women age, their risk for cataracts increases. Starting at age 50, cataract risk rises, and that risk only grows more significant as men and women get older. The National Eye Institute predicts that, by the year 2050, 50.2 million Americans will experience cataracts. The lens of the eye is normally clear, but as a person ages, the lenses can begin to cloud and lead to impaired vision. Cataracts can cause blurry vision and increase the glare from lights, affecting how a person can manage daily activities. Cataracts also may make it more difficult for eye doctors to examine the back of the eye during routine visits to detect conditions such as age-related macular degeneration or diabetic retinopathy. Eye experts routinely recommend cataract surgery when cataracts interfere with daily activities, such as driving, watching television or even reading medication bottles. Surgery is a safe and common way to treat cataracts. The American Optometric Association
says cataract surgery involves the removal of the natural lens of the eye, which is replaced with an artificial lens. This clear, plastic intraocular lens, or IOL, requires no special maintenance and is designed to properly focus. In many cases, the eye doctor will make a small incision in the side of the cornea, where he or she inserts a tiny probe. This device will use ultrasound waves to soften and break up the lens into small pieces, which are removed by suction in a process known as phacoemulsification. The cataract lens is removed, but the thin, outer layers of the lens, called the lens capsule, are not touched. Afterward, the IOL is placed in the lens capsule. If the cataracts have advanced and phacoemulsification is not an option, the eye doctor will have to find another way to remove the lens. The IOLs used may be monofocal, fixed-focus, accommodating, and multifocal lenses, and which type of lens is best for a patient’s needs will be determined by
the eye doctor. Cataract surgery may only take 15 minutes, though patients will likely spend more time at the surgical facility to allow for prep time and post-operative evaluation. Recovery will involve the use of medicated eye drops several times daily, and a protective eye shield should be used while sleeping. As the eye recovers, a special pair of postoperative sunglasses is required to protect the eyes from bright light. Eye doctors also advise patients to avoid strenuous activity, including exercise, for at least the first week of recovery. Water splashed in the eyes can cause infection, so swimming should be avoided and caution should be taken when bathing or showering. All About Vision says it can take several weeks for the eye to heal sufficiently. If both eyes require surgery, doctors will often wait one to three weeks before performing surgery on the second eye. Learn more about cataract surgery by speaking with your eye doctor or visiting www.aoa.org.
12 COVNEWS.COM
SENIOR LIVING 2015
How to eat after
50 As people age, their dietary needs begin to change. Foods that were once staples of your diet as a youth may be restricted once you hit a certain age, while other foods you may have always avoided may now be necessary to fuel and support a healthy body. Eating healthy foods and exercising may not be enough to sustain health, as hormonal changes and other health effects as a person reaches age 50 can have a profound impact on his or her nutritional requirements. The following are a few things men and women over 50 may want to consider as they look to eat a healthy diet for years to come. Vitamin D Both men and women age 50 and up have a reduced ability to produce vitamin D through exposure to the sun. Extra vitamin D will be needed from foods and supplements. Everyone over the age of 50 should take a daily vitamin D supplement of 400 IU (10 µg), according to CanadaÕs Food Guide. Without adequate vitamin D, bone strength and health can deteriorate because vitamin D promotes calcium absorption. Vitamin D also has other roles, including helping neuromuscular and immune function and reducing inflammation.
Friendly fats People over age 50 should increase their intake of unsaturated fats and reduce consumption of saturated fats. Nutrientrich unsaturated fats can guard against heart conditions, protect against stroke, keep skin supple, and even help men and women maintain good neurological health. Omega-3 fatty acids can be found in nuts, olives, seeds, and fatty fishes. Increase protein According to Christine Gerbstadt, MD, RD, a spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, as they age, men and women need more protein in their diets to maintain their muscle mass. The amount of protein needed at a younger age no longer may be adequate. Look for lean sources of protein from fish and poultry. Beans are also a low-fat source of protein that can help fulfill daily protein requirements. More fiber Eating more fiber can help with digestive and intestinal problems, such as constipation. Constipation can occur when fiber intake is not enough, coupled with a more
sedentary lifestyle. The best way to get fiber is through diet. Leave the skins on fruit and vegetables and choose whole fruits over juices. Whole-grain breads and cereals also are good sources of fiber. Dry beans and lentils can add a fiber boost. Always increase fiber slowly to determine your tolerance. Fewer calories The National Institute on Aging says women over the age of 50 need between 1,600 and 2,000 calories, depending on how physically active they are. Men need between 2,000 and 2,400 calories per day. With each passing year there is a decrease in the energy required to maintain body weight, so caloric intake should be adjusted accordingly. More water As a person ages, his or her body may not signal it is thirsty as well as it once did, so it’s possible that you may not recognize when you are thirsty or dehydrated. The Mayo Clinic recommends around nine to 10 cups of beverages per day to remain hydrated. Eating healthy and changing one’s diet is important as a person ages, as dietary needs at age 50 may be quite different from what they were at age 30.
SPECIALIZING IN
DIGESTIVE DISEASES & NUTRITION • Colorectal Cancer Screening and Prevention • Gastro Esophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) • Esophageal and Swallowing Disorders • Non-Invasive Hemorrhoid Therapy • Pancreatic and Billiary Disorders • Inflammatory Bowel Disease • Irritable Bowel Syndrome • Video Capsule Endoscopy • IV Infusion Therapy • Chronic Constipation • Liver Disease
BOARD CERTIFIED PHYSICIANS
770-922-0505
DAVID N. SOCOLOFF
FRED A. LEVIN
DO
MD, FACP, FACG
EastAtlantaGastro.Com 1269 Wellbrook Circle • Conyers, GA 7229 Wheat Street • Covington, GA 1075 South Main Street Suite 200 • Madison, GA 30650
A. STEVEN MCINTOSH MD, FACG
KAREN L. WEISS-SCHORR RAZVI M. RAZACK MD
MD
1000 Cowles Clinic Way Cypress Building, Suite C-300 • Greensboro, GA
14 COVNEWS.COM
SENIOR LIVING 2015
Protect yourself against stomach ulcers Did you know that a bacterium called Helicobacter pylori is the main cause of 60 to 80 percent of gastric ulcers, and of 80 to 85 percent of duodenal ulcers? The duodenum is the upper end of the small intestine. Normally, a layer of mucous protects the stomach and the intestine from the acidity of the gastric juice, a liquid secreted by the stomach glands during digestion. Helicobacter pylori weakens this protective layer by penetrating the mucus lining and creating open sores, or ulcers, in the gastrointestinal tract. In industrialized countries, close to 20 percent of people aged 40 and under are infected with this bacterium, and if affects close to 50 percent of people over the age of 60. Studies show that 20 percent of these people will develop an ulcer during their lifetime. Clinical studies have shown that probiotics can be useful in treating infections caused by Helicobacter pylori. Antibiotics are usually prescribed to eliminate Helicobacter pylori, but unfortunately, the success rate is only 74.8 percent. When a multi-strain probiotic supplement, such as Probaclac, is added, the treatment’s efficiency increases to 83.6 percent. The fact that antibiotics cause several side effects is important to mention. These adverse effects, experienced by 38.5 percent of patients treated, include diarrhea, stomach pain, nausea and taste changes. When a multi-strain probiotic supplement is given along with the antibiotics, side effects are reduced and reported by only 24.7 percent of patients.
Jolicoeur recommends Probaclac as the ideal solution since it provides probiotic complexes that are designed specifically for every age group: children up to the age of 15; adults (can be taken from the age of 15); and older adults (age 50 and up). “Adding a multi-strain probiotic supplement to the medication given to treat ulcers caused by Helicobacter pylori significantly increases its efficiency and tolerance,” she said. More information and advice on probiotics is available at probaclac.ca.
Eye exams can reveal more than just vision trouble More evidence points to the importance of routine eye exams, not only to pinpoint potential conditions of the eye, but also to serve as windows to diseases that affect the entire body. Now more than ever it is essential to make and keep annual eye exams, as they can help to reveal the first signs of serious ailments. Doctors from around the world say dozens of diseases Ñ from certain cancers to arthritis to high blood pressure Ñ can show symptoms in the eye. Under the watchful and knowing gaze of an eyecare professional, individuals can get early diagnosis and begin treatment promptly. According to Dr. Roy Chuck, chair of the Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences at Albert Einstein College of Medicine and Montefiore Medical Center, there are many systemic
diseases that can be seen in the eye. In addition to the conditions mentioned, jaundice can indicate liver disease while retinal detachment and bleeding in new blood vessels may indicate hypertension. By looking at the color of the cornea, some doctors can tell if a patient has elevated levels of cholesterol. Many people have had their eye doctors be the first healthcare professional to detect the presence of their diabetes. If an ophthalmologist suspects an underlying medical condition, he or she will likely refer men and women to their primary care doctors for a more thorough examination. Going to the eye doctor can do more than ensure your vision is sharp. It’s a life-saving decision for many people who have major health conditions diagnosed through the eyes.
SENIOR LIVING 2015
COVNEWS.COM 15
Rebounding
from a late start to retirement savings Some people do not have the ability to begin saving for retirement early on. Others may have brushed retirement savings aside for so long that they are now worried that it’s too late to begin socking away money for retirement. While it’s best to start saving for retirement as early as possible, the good news is that it’s never too late to start planning for retirement. If your 40th birthday has long passed and you’re finally thinking ahead to retirement, consider these catch-up strategies. Research tax-advantageous retirement savings plans. A financial planner can point you in the right direction, or consult with your employer about employee programs. Deposit money into a 401(k) or 403(b) plan or another retirement vehicle. Jump on any opportunities when your employer matches invested funds. Investigate an IRA and find out if there are any government incentives. Depending on your age, you may be able to deposit more money into such accounts than other investors. Cut back on expenses. Cutting back on unnecessary expenses is a great way to save more money for retirement. Figure out where you can save some money you can then allocate to retirement savings. Maybe you can reduce insurance coverage on an older car or raise your deductible? Downsize cable packages or skip that costly cup of coffee on the way to work. Perhaps it’s time to look for a smaller, less expensive home or a compact car instead of an SUV. Any money saved now will benefit you when the time
comes time to bid farewell to the workforce. Delay your retirement. Many people who retire find themselves bored and looking for ways to fill their time, and as a result more and more people are delaying their retirement, which also gives them more time to save for that day when they do call it quits. If you want to work less, discuss and negotiate a phased retirement with your bosses that allows you to stick with your employer but gradually work fewer hours until you retire completely. You may be able to work part-time for several years and retire when you’re most comfortable. Consider more aggressive funds. Even if you are 50 you still have a few decades before retirement, which leaves lots of time to grow your retirement savings. But you may want to consider more aggressive funds that can help you catch up more quickly than less aggressive investments. Just know that aggressive funds may also leave you susceptible to substantial losses. Don’t amass debt. If you’re saving for retirement but only paying minimum balances on your credit cards, then you’re not really saving. Pay down credit card debt before you begin to set aside money for retirement. Delaying retirement planning may mean you have to work a little harder to build up a solid reserve. But by following some financial tips and persevering, you can still enjoy retirement with security.
16 COVNEWS.COM
SENIOR LIVING 2015
Shopping for an assisted living facility
T
he decision to move yourself or a family member to an assisted living facility can be difficult. When men and women begin to experience difficulty with everyday activities, such as bathing, dressing or getting around, families may need to explore assisted living facilities. Millions of people in North America reside in assisted living facilities. The majority of residents in senior living are those who may need assistance with one or two daily activities, but who are otherwise mobile and self-sufficient. Families faced with moving relatives into assisted living facilities can consider the following pointers to find facilities their loved ones will enjoy. Consider the arrangements and services offered. Some facilities offer single rooms, while others provide apartment-style living. Most assisted living facilities provide a variety of services, such as housekeeping, laundry, exercise and wellness classes, and social activities, for their residents. Investigate
the offerings at each home you visit, looking for a facility that best suits your loved one’s needs. Inquire about staff and their schedules. It is important to know how many staff members a facility has and how many people are working at any given time. Do staffing schedules differ at night? If a resident has a particular rapport with one staff member, can he or she be requested? Look for a facility that is wellstaffed and adept at dealing with elderly men and women. Learn about individual service plans. Many assisted living facilities create individual service plans, or ISPs, for their residents to ensure individualized care is given. These plans are important for the
safety and comfort of residents and also can help maximize a person’s independence. Some communities offer memory care programs for those with Alzheimer’s disease or other cognitive disorders. Consider the security in place. A good assisted living facility has a 24-hour support system in place and immediate access to care. Rooms may be equipped with emergency phones that can be accessed day or night. Many homes have check-in desks so that residents are accounted for when going on outings and for announcing guests. Check on licensing. In the United States, each state has its own licensing requirements for assisted living facilities. Confirm a facility is licensed and that it meets the expectations of the local regulatory agency. In addition, check with the Better Business Bureau to see if any complaints have been filed against the home. Assisted living facilities can meet the needs of people who cannot live independently but do not require the around-theclock care of a nursing home.
benton house senior living community
You want the best for your loved one. Let Benton House help. Choosing the best option for a senior loved one can be a confusing and overwhelming process. At Benton House we stand ready to serve you. Let us be your resource for answers.
Call for info: (770) 788-6660 7155 Dearing Road • Covington
bentonhouse.com/covington
18 COVNEWS.COM
SENIOR LIVING 2015
Personalized funeral rites Funeral rites have existed from time immemorial, although ceremonies to honor the dead have evolved greatly over the years. In the Western world, many families no longer follow longstanding cultural traditions, preferring to organize personalized funeral services for their loved ones. In the old Christian tradition, custom required the wearing of black during a year of mourning, and the holding of a wake in the home. That is not necessarily the case anymore, although some families do still arrange for funeral home visitations, a funeral service in a church, and then a burial ceremony at a cemetery. It is also becoming increasingly common to do everything under the same roof, usually at a funeral center. Most funeral homes adapt their services and are flexible in meeting the requests of mourning families who want to add a personalized touch to the funeral. This may include the decoration of the visitation room, the display of a photomontage or video, or an opportunity for family and friends to pay tribute to the deceased. Music is the heart of many a funeral service Music usually plays a central role during funeral services. However, the type of music has also changed over the years. Increasingly, secular classical or religious music is being replaced by modern tunes. Some families enjoy hearing the favorite songs of the deceased, or they choose to play the soundtracks from their loved one’s favorite films and television shows. Soulful standards are also often heard in funeral parlors, such as My Way, Someone Like You, Wind Beneath My Wings, Unforgettable, Over the Rainbow, I’ll Be Missing You, Fields of Gold, My Heart Will Go On, and Time to Say Goodbye. And imagine: in the United Kingdom, music from the American television series Six Feet Under is a popular choice. It just goes to show that for a lot of people nowadays, anything goes.
Have you prearranged your funeral? While it’s true that thinking about prearranged funerals isn’t the happiest of jobs, it’s certainly an essential one. Not only does it enable you to discuss your wishes with your family, but you also find out if your plans meet their needs and expectations. Just remember that when the time comes, they’ll need some kind of ceremony to help them begin the grieving process. A funeral organized at the last minute (the type of service, how much it should cost, etc.) can become a source of conflict for bereaved family members at a time when they need to rely on each other more than ever. By prearranging your funeral service, (called a “preplanned funeral”), you save your loved ones from having to make those tough decisions at a difficult time.
You also give yourself peace of mind, since you’re making sure your wishes are respected and that the ceremony is personalized. However, try not to leave overly detailed instructions; give some leeway to your loved ones so they have the possibility of getting involved in the organization of the funeral and expressing their feelings. Do you believe that a prearranged funeral is unnecessary because your wishes are already set out in your will? Don’t forget that a will is often read after the funeral. That means your family may not be in a position to receive your instructions about the ceremony before it takes place. It’s important that you prearrange your funeral services, not just for you but for your loved ones as well. Maybe now is a good time to think about it.