SENIOR CARE
Long-term CARE
Stay safe and active during COVID-19
Elder care resources
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SENIOR CARE is a supplement to The Spokesman-Review • Wednesday, October 14, 2020
Choices for long-term care
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Metrocreative
ong-term care assists people in their homes, in the community or in various types of facilities with various daily and medical requirements. Many people are unaware of long-term care options or may be
misinformed about what’s out there. Home care Various services can be utilized from home. According to the KnoxvilleKnox County Community Action Committee Office on Aging, services can include home-delivered
meals, pest control, minor home modifications, or visiting nurses and health aides. Other benefits may include shopping or physical therapy. Community care Community services can include adult day care centers, meal programs, senior centers, community transportation, and others. They also may help family or friends serving as caregivers enjoy a break from the assistance they have been providing. Care facilities Long-term care facilities include a variety of services beyond critical care. Independent senior living: Amenities are designed to make things easier and more convenient for residents. Fitness centers, pools, dining venues, and transportation may be included. These facilities tend to provide the most independent form of senior living. Some independent living facilities are part of larger continuing care retirement communities that have staged care that goes from independent to skilled nursing.
Assisted living: These homes provide 24-hour supervision, meals, healthcare services, and other forms of assistance in a home-like setting. Types of services include laundry, housekeeping, medication dispersal, and dressing. Skilled nursing homes: Nursing homes provide care for those who cannot care for themselves at home or in the community. These facilities offer many services all under one roof, like rehabilitative services, meals, activities, and around-the-clock care. Some skilled nursing homes offer temporary care after an injury or illness and are used in lieu of an extended hospital stay. It is never too early to begin planning for elder care that may include longterm care possibilities. Individuals are urged to work with an elder care lawyer to help navigate the complexities of planning for medical care and their potential financial needs.
Our community’s only nonprofit hospice, “Mom felt held in warmth, peace and comfort and she wasn’t afraid because of that. She had a beautiful ending and that was because of Hospice of Spokane.” – Janice Hughes and Becky Nappi
serving patients and their families since 1977. Dignity. Trust. Compassion.
509.456.0438 hospiceofspokane.org
SENIOR CARE is a supplement to The Spokesman-Review • Wednesday, October 14, 2020
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What people are saying about Broadway Court Estates “Our wish for our Mom is for her to be SAFE, HEALTHY AND HAPPY. At BCE, the facilities, amenities and activities are amazing, and the owners, staff and residents have embraced her and us. Thanks, BCE, for being a blessing!” -- Jennifer “They are so good to us!’ We have heard this countless times after Mom moved into BCE. Though hesitant to move during a pandemic, she has been pleased with the care and protection that staff provides. She has been warmly welcomed and safely participates in activities with her new neighbors.” -- Debbie
with Retirement Livingance Affordable Eleg
“We chose Broadway Court Estates for my dad because of the kind, caring, helpful staff, very friendly tenants and the many activities available. My dad was sold on the Reuben sandwich in the ‘50s café on his first visit, it was then he knew he was home!” -- Lynn
Learn more about Broadway Court Estates at 13505 E. Broadway Ave., in Spokane Valley or call (509) 921-0249
OUR FALL MOVE-IN
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• Gourmet Dinner Menu • Continental Breakfast • 24 Hour Emergency Call System • All Utilities • Indoor Swimming Pool • Transportation Service
• Free Wi-Fi Internet • Weekly Housekeeping • Onsite Exercise Facilities • Life Enrichment Programs • Greenhouse/Raised Bed Gardens • Patio/Balcony
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SENIOR CARE is a supplement to The Spokesman-Review • Wednesday, October 14, 2020
DID YOU KNOW?
Shopping for
assisted living facilities
Metrocreative
Many people plan to retire by a certain age, but few may actually still be working at their targeted retirement age. In the United States, the age at which working Americans expect to retire has risen to 66. But a Gallup poll showed that most don’t stay on the job that long, instead retiring when they’re about 60 or 61. In addition, according to a 2018 Employee Benefit Research Institute survey, 48 percent of workers wanted to retire after age 65, but only 19 percent of retirees stayed on the job that long. The reasons vary, but one positive outcome is having enough money to live comfortably during retirement. Still, early retirement largely involves unexpected scenarios. These may include poor health, having to care for an aging parent, downsizing, new skills required for the job, or other work-related reasons.
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HIRING MOVERS
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s people age, oftentimes their living arrangements need to be adjusted. Needs evolve as children move out or other situations arise. One of the scenarios that may come to pass as a person ages is the need for more specialized help that just isn’t possible at home. When failing physical or mental health affects one’s ability to be independent and live safety at home, moving into an assisted living facility may be the next step. The National Center for Assisted Living indicates assisted living offers the little bit of help some people need when they can no longer manage living alone. Typically these facilities provide assistance with bathing or dressing, medication management and other care, while also catering to people who may not require the aroundthe-clock medical care most often associated with nursing homes. Vetting is an important component of finding assisted living facilities. Family caregivers need to educate themselves about services, costs and
other resources provided by assisted living facilities. AARP says assisted living facilities provide residents with a range of services that can include supervision, meals, housekeeping, laundry, and personal care. Residents usually have their own apartments or private rooms. Because they are mostly regulated at state level in the United States, there is a lot of variety among these facilities. That means family caregivers need to assess their needs and desires in a facility to find the right one that fits. Assisted living facilities offer a home-like environment, and the amenities available vary based on cost. Paying for assisted living differs from paying for nursing homes. Largely government-subsidized health programs like Medicare and Medicaid pay for nursing home care. Those who would be best serviced by assisted living may find they may not qualify for government support, nor may the facilities accept anything other than private payment or long-term care insurance to cover room and board. Other considerations in assisted living facilities are size, specialties, atmosphere, location, and the ability to transition to higher forms of care. Assisted living may fill a void currently, but it’s often not a permanent situation for all, and eventually certain residents may have to move on to skilled care facilities. Potential residents and their families should visit various assisted living facilities to get a feel for what they are like. Speak with the staff and residents, request a meal and get a sense of the environment. Apart from cost, how the home feels is one of the most important factors in shopping around for this type of residence.
SENIOR CARE is a supplement to The Spokesman-Review • Wednesday, October 14, 2020
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“W HERE LIVING WELL IS A WAY OF
LIFE”
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FREE
MOVE IN SERVICE
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Select Apartment Homes Still Available • INDEPENDENT LIVING • LIGHT ASSISTED LIVING
• ASSISTED LIVING • COTTAGE HOMES
509.922.3100
EVERGREENFOUNTAINS.COM 1201 N. EVERGREEN RD., SPOKANE VALLEY
Evergreen Fountains Senior Living Community – Where Living Well is a Way of Life Life at Evergreen Fountains Senior Living Community is very special. Evergreen Fountains was built, developed and is operated by lifetime Spokane Valley residents Gregory and Prokey Arger, on-site director. The Arger family provides a personal touch and a home-like atmosphere that is unmatched anywhere in the Spokane area. Living at Evergreen Fountains means you enjoy a luxurious lifestyle, dedicated staff, amazing amenities and engaging activities designed just for you. We have long upheld the philosophy that “Living Well” is a way of life, and consider our mission to promote and enhance our residents’ wellness and vitality. There are variety of lifestyle options at Evergreen Fountains, including Cottage Homes, Independent Living Apartments, Light Assisted Living, Assisted Living and short stay Respite Care. Every
living option is professionally designed to provide a comfortable space where you can express your personal style and make it home. Access to wellness programs, certified personal trainers, fully equipped fitness center, 88-degree pool and spa, putting green, and outdoor walking paths is offered at no additional cost. Evergreen Fountains is a gated community with 24-hour assistance and provides a medical clinic, beauty salon, dental hygienist, massage therapist, pastoral services and restaurant-style dining with an award-winning gourmet chef. Evergreen Fountains is dedicated to helping residents achieve their personal goals. Choosing Evergreen Fountains means you will be living a healthy and independent lifestyle, filled with new friendship in a comfortable home.
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SENIOR CARE is a supplement to The Spokesman-Review • Wednesday, October 14, 2020
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ways seniors can stay safe and active during COVID-19
(BPT) - By now, most seniors are aware that they’re among the most vulnerable demographic groups when it comes to contracting COVID-19
That said, a recent nationwide poll by Tivity Health®, a national provider of senior fitness, nutrition and healthy lifestyle solutions, including SilverSneakers®, the nation’s leading community fitness
program designed for older adults, indicates many are probably not getting the exercise they need to maintain optimal health.
In the poll, 46% of adult and senior respondents said the pandemic is preventing them from attending in-person exercise classes at local gyms, although 84% noted they’ll return within a month once attendance is deemed safe by
authorities.
prevent falls
A core challenge is reduced gym access, as quarantines prove problematic for many older Americans trying to continue exercise regimens. Exercise remains critical for seniors to maintain a healthy immune system that’s able to fight off disease. Regular workouts can also increase balance and strength and help
For seniors, falls are an all too common threat and crisis; Johns Hopkins University reports that 25% of adults 65 or older fall, and three million are treated in emergency rooms each year for injuries caused by falls. “This pandemic has brought great challenges and stress for
SENIOR CARE is a supplement to The Spokesman-Review • Wednesday, October 14, 2020
seniors. But the good news is, there are ways to exercise safely and maintain an active lifestyle,” says Tivity Health president and CEO Richard Ashworth. “Exercise is vital for maintaining optimal health, and through easy-to-access digital and in-person options, it is our hope seniors can continue or renew exercise regimens quickly and safely.” Maintaining regular exercise during COVID-19 need not be difficult. If you’re a senior wanting to maintain effective workouts each day, here are some tips you can follow even if you’re practicing social isolation. Start slowly. If you haven’t been exercising, you’ll want to ease into your new routine gradually. Studies indicate just two weeks of inactivity (or a 75% reduction in daily steps) can decrease your muscle strength by 8%, while dropping 1,000 to 1,500 steps each day can both raise both inflammation and blood pressure. You should jumpstart your new regimen with safe exercises like squats, wall push-ups, light weightlifting regimens and taking walks (keeping distance from others for safety). Subscribe to a digital exercise program. You do not need to leave your home to exercise each day. That’s especially true if you sign up for a high-quality digital regimen that fits well with your exercise goals and preferences. In fact, 56% of seniors responding to the Tivity Health poll said their future workout plans call for participating in online classes two to three times per week. You may find SilverSneakers’ LIVE
classes are your perfect option; the instructor-led online exercise sessions are being offered to all SilverSneakers members. In addition, free Facebook Live classes led by SilverSneakers national trainers are broadcast multiple times a week. The national fitness membership organization designed the virtual series to help seniors stay in shape while still following precautions during the pandemic. Avoid prolonged sitting. Even if you must set a timer to remind yourself, take frequent breaks from sitting and engage in rejuvenating strolls - or simply take part in activities that involve standing. The point is to avoid being sedentary for long intervals of time.
Use others as motivation. In the Tivity Health poll, 44% of responding seniors said they’re motivated to return to their fitness centers to see and socialize with friends. If you feel more motivated when not exercising all by yourself, you might optimize FaceTime, Zoom or even a quick phone call to interact with fitness-minded others as you work out at home. Check out local fitness centers. Before attending local gyms, learn what they’re doing to keep their customers safe and to align with recommended CDC guidelines. If you feel safe enough to participate, exercise in open spaces where you can maintain six feet of distance from others. You might also check out low-intensity options such as
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water exercise classes, yoga or Tai Chi. Whether you’re staying at home or practicing safe social distancing while out and about, there’s no need to give up the exercise that can help you maintain optimal health during the pandemic. Take steps now to ensure you’re taking good care of yourself through age-appropriate workouts and movement. To check your eligibility and find a health plan that includes SilverSneakers, visit silversneakers.com.
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SENIOR CARE is a supplement to The Spokesman-Review • Wednesday, October 14, 2020
DID YOU KNOW?
Over the last decade, seniors have become increasingly more savvy in regard to social media usage. The Pew Research Center found that, in 2015, around 35 percent of people age 65 and older reported using social media. That’s a large jump from just 2 percent in 2005. As of 2016, 65 percent of people between the ages 50 and 64 reported using social media, according to Pew. Social media usage among seniors continues to climb, although young adults still comprise the demographic most likely to use it. Among seniors ages 50 and older, Facebook is by far the most popular social media platform used, followed by Pinterest and LinkedIn.
ATTENTION
MEDICARE RECIPIENTS: Need assistance with the many confusing options in the upcoming enrollment period?
Annual Enrollment Period Learn how Medicare works before you select a plan.
October 15th - December 7th
to make changes to your Medicare, Health Care or Prescription Drugs. Part A: Part B:
Hospital Stays Doctor Visits
Part C: Part D:
Medicare Advantage Prescription Drugs
I can help you with your Medicare Questions and Enrollment. Contact me to receive more Medicare Information:
Gary Vaughn, Retirement Solutions 1301 N. Pines Rd, Ste. 201, Spokane Valley, WA 99206 Gary@ksifa.com Office: 509-868-0622 • Fax: 509-868-0394 Gary B Vaughn is registered with and securities offered through Kovack Securities, Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC. Tel 954-782-4771. 6451 N. Federal Hwy. Ste. 1201, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33308. Retirement Solutions is not affiliated with Kovack Securities, Inc.
Elder care resources
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eople want to grow old gracefully and maintain their independence as long as possible. There are many decisions to make as well as information to wade through to ensure needs are met and proper care is received through one’s golden years. Individuals, caregivers and families may find that a few helping hands along the way can be invaluable. Numerous elder care resources are available for those who don’t know where to look. Start by researching the National Council on Aging (www.ncoa.org). This is a national leader and trusted association that helps people age 60 and older. The council works with nonprofit organizations, governments and businesses to organize programs and services at the community level. This is a good place to fin d senior programs that can help with healthy aging -- emotionally, physically and financially. AARP (www.aarp.org) is yet another organization dedicated to helping seniors. The comprehensive AARP website offers a host of information on everything from senior discounts to products to health and other information specific to seniors. The AARP also has an affiliated charity that works to help low-income seniors procure life’s necessities. At the local level in the United States, the federal government has mandated Area Agency on Aging (www.n4a.org) facilities in every county/city. These agencies can provide information on service programs available to the seniors
in the area, as well as financial resources. These facilities give seniors access to volunteers who can take seniors around by car, and some provide meals-on-wheels services. The Administration for Community Living (www.acl.org) was established to help older adults and people of all ages with disabilities live where they choose. A network of community-based organizations helps millions of people age in place. ElderCare Canada is an advice and action consulting service that helps seniors with a variety of different services. They can offer resources on setting up home care, finding retirement residences, moving, or navigating the health care system. Military veterans or those who are/ were married to a veteran may be eligible for various benefits through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (www.va.gov). The VA offers health care services, disability compensation, burial benefits, and much more. Seniors have many different resources at their disposal that can help answer questions or provide services when the need arises.
SENIOR CARE is a supplement to The Spokesman-Review • Wednesday, October 14, 2020
Fairwood Retirement Village offers quality service in a beautiful setting Fairwood Retirement Village and Assisted Living is a locally-owned family business which was developed with the intention to serve seniors in a community environment. You will be delighted by our beautiful park-like setting right here in north Spokane and the services and amenities we offer. We recognize your independence and dignity and are so pleased to be able to offer the convenience of continuum of care services. Independent Living, Assisted Living, and Memory Care are right here on our 18-acre property, located close to services and shopping as well as entertainment and dining. Our multi-level community has a large indoor pool, activities program, dining and meal plan, transportation, 24-hour security, emergency call system, and a large staff of caring individuals who really have a heart for the residents have they serve.-
We have second and even third-generation residents residing at Fairwood Village and we know what a wonderful compliment this is to our community and staff. We continue our dedication and commitment of quality service and never take it for granted. With so many retirement communities in Spokane to choose from, it is no wonder why so many seniors choose us. As you take time to get to know us, please consider getting on our wait list to ensure that you are able to choose from our many sizes and styles of units and to secure a place in our community. We look forward to hearing from you to plan for retirement living in our beautiful natural setting.
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DID YOU KNOW?
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ntil recently, private funds or long-term care insurance have been the only ways to finance long-term care like skilled nursing homes, assisted living facilities or home health aides, which are not covered by traditional health insurance. However, a new option is now available. According to the online financial resource NerdWallet, combination long-term care/life insurance policies may be better options. Depending on the policy, a portion of the funds can be used for long-term care that’s equal to several times the premium payments. This results in a reduced death benefit, depending on how much of the long-term care benefit was used. Some policies even
SENIOR CARE is a supplement to The Spokesman-Review • Wednesday, October 14, 2020
Memory care
guarantee a small percentage of the death benefit, even if all the money allocated for long-term care was used. The American Association of Long-Term Care Insurance said that more than 350,000 Americans purchased long-term care coverage in 2018 and roughly 84 percent of these purchases were for hybrid or combination life insurance. Hybrid products may have lower premiums, and they can be paid in a lump sum or over several years. For those who do not tap into the long-term care savings, the policy will still pay out a death benefit to beneficiaries.
a component of assisted living
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Metrocreative
ging brings about many changes, including some that may compromise seniors’ ability to remain independent. In such instances, many families consider assisted living facilities for their aging relatives. More than 835,000 Americans currently reside in assisted living communities, according to the National Center for Assisted Living. While communities and homes provide various services, one service in particular may be needed for seniors with Alzheimer’s disease, other dementias or memory problems. Memory care units are separate facilities that cater to people with dementia or other memory issues. According to the senior residence referral and resource guide A Place for Mom, memory care is a distinct form of longterm skilled nursing. Also called special care units, memory care facilities provide 24-hour supervised care for individuals. This care is often carried out in a separate wing or floor of a residential facility or community. Memory care facilities aim to provide a safe and secure environment for residents. This means limiting entry or egress to other areas of the facility for those who may have trouble navigating and remembering where they started out. The Alzheimer’s Association notes that six in 10 people with dementia will wander and become disoriented. This is dangerous for the individual and others. Memory care units often have alarms and ‘wander guard’ precautions in place to make sure residents cannot roam unsupervised and risk injury. Another goal of memory care is to provide a stress-free, structured lifestyle that has set schedules and routines, states Brookdale Senior Living. This can help keep distress minimal and make for more comfortable and happy residents. In addition, memory care units offer programs that help slow the progression of dementias and cultivate cognitive skills. Fitness exercises, games, specialty food programs, activities, and much more may be offered to make residents more comfortable. Memory care facilities include common spaces for socialization, meals and activities. ”Alzheimer’s patients must maintain their activity, walking, interacting with music, and art,” says Lory Bright-Long, MD, CMD, of the American Medical Directors Association. “We have to awaken the senses so that the memory can have a hook. This is accomplished in the memory care setting.” It is important for those considering assisted living and nursing home facilities to inquire about specific memory care units if a loved one requires this environment. Start the search at APlaceForMom.com.
SENIOR CARE is a supplement to The Spokesman-Review • Wednesday, October 14, 2020
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Colonial Court: something for everyone Colonial Court is a family-owned and -operated assisted living community, serving Spokane Valley with care and compassion for over 30 years! When choosing to be a part of our Colonial Court family, you can have peace of mind knowing that your family member will be well cared for and loved. Our staff strive to give our residents a life of dignity and encourage independence based on their individual abilities. Colonial Court offers cozy unfurnished studio apartments with private bathroom, 24-hour staff and an advanced wing for memory care and other advanced disease processes. We have extraordinary chefs on staff and our meals are prepared from scratch daily. Our chefs strive to offer a little something new to our residents without losing that home-cooked feel. We specialize in any required dietary needs such as renal, gluten free, diabetic, lactose intolerance and more. Colonial Court also offers a wide variety of activities and outings that are available to meet physical, social, emotional and spiritual needs. Our activity program is extensive, there is something for everyone!
• 24-Hour licensed staff • Excellent staff-to-resident ratio • Personal care and medication management • Private rooms and bathrooms with handicap accessibility • Secured memory care • Transportation and special outings • Chef-prepared meals and snacks • Special diet accommodations • Daily coffee bar and pastry bar • Beautifully fenced courtyard with walking paths • Gardening program with Master Gardener • Salon and barber shop • Weekly housekeeping and laundry service Learn more at • Activities tailored to residents’ needs • Special occasion/family gatherings Colonial Court, • Private dining available 13505 E. Broadway • DIRECTV and Internet Ave., Spokane Valley, • Church services/Catholic services • Intercom and emergency call system or call (509) 921-5473.
SERVICES AND AMENITIES • Gardening Program with Master Gardener • 24 Hour Licensed Staff • Salon and Barber Shop • Excellent Staff to Resident • Weekly Housekeeping Ratio and Laundry Service • Personal Care and • Activities program Medication Tailored to Resident’s Management Needs • Private Rooms and • Special Occasion/Family Bathrooms with Gathering in Private Handicap Accessibility Dining • Secured Memory Care • DIRECTV and Internet • Chef Prepared Meals and • Church Services and Snacks Catholic Services • Accommodates Special • Transportation and Diets Special Outings • Daily Coffee and Pastry Bar • Intercom and Emergency • Beautiful Fenced Courtyard Call System with Walking Paths
Providing Advanced Care in an Assisted Living Environment
Call Today to Schedule a Tour
(509) 921-5473 Evening and Weekend Tours available by appointment.
12016 E. Cataldo | Spokane Valley, WA 99206 | (509) 921-5473 colonialcourtassistedliving.com
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SENIOR CARE is a supplement to The Spokesman-Review • Wednesday, October 14, 2020