14 minute read
Column 55 - Real Estate BECOME A
A COLUMN ON AGEISM AND AGEING Play It Again, Sam
By Ellen Waterston
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This year, on Father’s Day, I attended an unforgettable concert. It was held, of all places, at an assisted living facility specializing in memory care. A friend of mine now resides there, a preventative decision made after months of thoughtful conversations between him and his grown children, as together they weighed other options: living on his own, with family members, or in a care home. As is his wont, he has embraced his new circumstances, making more than the best of it. His humor, energy and creative generosity have already made their mark on the staff and residents at his new home. A longtime singer, songwriter and guitarist, he has played in bands all his life, in addition to his award-winning work in film and video. His children caught the music bug from him, all now accomplished musicians and performers in their own right. So, on this Father’s Day, his family gathered in the facility’s community room to honor their father and to showcase what he has always done: give to others through song. Guitars, drums, fiddles, amplifiers and microphones were set up. Rattles and tambourines were placed within close reach. The chairs filled. Additional family members and guests, come to celebrate Father’s Day, added to the gaiety. Canes and walkers belonging to residents were set to one side. Those confined to wheelchairs were rolled in. Some chatted enthusiastically while others appeared disassociated, detached from what was taking place around them. One in particular, her wheelchair situated near me, sat slumped, chin on her chest, motionless, hands resting listless on her thighs, eyes closed.
My friend positioned a stool in front of the mic, nodded in the direction of his daughter, and the band began to play with him alternately performing as lead singer or singing harmony. How comfortable he was in the saddle of song! They played rock 'n' roll and everything in between. Beatles and Eagles, country and blues were greeted with applause and hoots of appreciation. It seemed at least one of the medley was on the personal playlist of everyone present...maybe a song that hearkened back to a high school prom or one played full volume on a cross country road trip back in the days of cassette tapes.
I glanced at the woman seated near me in her wheelchair. She showed no evidence of connection to herself or her surroundings, no response to the music. But then, about three quarters of the way through the concert (I don’t remember the song), she lifted both her hands ever so slightly, ever so slowly, drawing them back and forth as delicately as butterfly wings in time with the drumbeat. Not a clap exactly, but close. Nothing else about her countenance had changed. But she had heard the music. It had spoken to something deep inside her. Of the millions of Americans living in longterm care facilities, many face cognitive difficulties sometimes made worse by leaving behind their familiar surroundings, friends and even their favorite music. Why would music matter? According to “Harvard Health,” “listening to and performing music reactivates areas of the brain associated with memory, reasoning, speech, emotion and reward.” The article cites two studies, one in the United States and the other in Japan, that find that music “doesn’t just help us retrieve stored memories, it also helps lay down new ones.” It turns out music, especially songs, form one’s formative years, tap deep memories not lost to dementia, bring listeners back to life, enabling them to feel like themselves again, to converse, socialize, stay present. Dr. Laura Mosqueda, director of Geriatrics at the University of California, Irvine School of Medicine, states, “Music creates an ‘awakening’ of sorts as it reaches areas of the brain that may not be damaged by Alzheimer’s and bring those pathways to the forefront.”
A few years ago, I came across the documentary, “Alive Inside” that follows a man named Dan Cohen who brings music to people suffering from dementia. It chronicles the astounding healing effect that music can have on behavior, mood and quality of life. And there’s more. When a stroke or brain injury has damaged the left-brain region responsible for speech, one can literally sing their way back to speaking, because singing originates in the right (undamaged) side of the brain. First singing their thoughts, patients learn to eventually drop the melody, to speak normally. This was how former Arizona Representative Gabrielle Giffords regained her ability to speak and was able to testify to Congress only two years after a gunshot wound to her brain.
In the book, “Songlines,” Bruce Chatwin recounts that Australian Aboriginals believed all things must be sung into existence. In considering the effect of music and song on our weary minds, we had better sing our cognitive connection to life into existence every single day. —Poet and author Ellen Waterston is a woman of a certain age who resides in Bend. "The Third Act" is a series of columns on ageing and ageism.
AFTER 13 YEARS IN OUR DOWNTOWN OFFICE LOCATION, ALLEDA REAL ESTATE IS MOVING TO A VIRTUAL OFFICE PLATFORM.
The amazing team of professional Realtors at Alleda are excited to continue to be a trusted resource in serving your real estate needs! As local experts who know the trends of Central Oregon, we will offer the same dedication, experience and integrity that we have always been known for.
NICOLE BASSEN
Broker JENNA BIFANO
Broker LORI COON
Broker VONNIE GREEN
Broker SHANNON GREY
Broker
LIZ LOTOCHINSKI
Principal Broker FRAN MCCORMICK
Broker JULIE MEHL
Broker GLORIA COON
Principal Broker, Owner JIM COON
Principal Broker, Owner
Changes In SE Bend
Caldera High and Alpenglow Park
Iwanted to take a quick break from the typical article about the changes in the local real estate market and talk a little about the changes happening in Bend. I spend quite a bit of time driving around various parts of Bend, so one thing that I do notice is how things seem to be constantly changing. This is hardly unique to Bend or Central Oregon, but right now there seem to be a lot of changes and new things going on in the southeast quadrant of Bend. I am not just referring to the neighborhood, “southeast Bend,” but also the Old Farm district, since the two neighborhoods make up most of this quadrant.
The big change everyone has noticed over the last year was the opening of the new Caldera High School, located on south 15th Street. With the growth Bend has been experiencing over the last decade, and the forecasted growth, the city was due for a new high school, and in the fall of 2021, Caldera opened its doors to students and faculty. This building was a sort of catalyst for change that would be coming to south 15th Street. As one walks along the new walking path from Caldera and heads north past the sports fields (which are fantastic looking!) you will begin to approach Bend’s newest park.
Very few things, let alone parks, seem to have come with the amount of anticipation as Alpenglow Park. The whole time the new high school was under construction there was discussion of this awesome new park that was going to be developed next to the high school. If you live in Bend, you know how amazing our parks are, both in number and quality. I’ve been lucky enough to visit Alpenglow a few times with my son and have been nothing but impressed. Several walking paths snake through the park—great for jogging, walking or any number of wheeled apparatuses. There is a splash pad, offleash dog area, concert stage, plus plenty of open spaces for tossing a Frisbee or ball. The real gem in my opinion is on the north end of the park as you approach Murphy Road. Located here is a large bouldering area, perfect for folks looking to practice their climbing skills, as well as a great place for kids of all ages to get introduced to the sport. After passing through the various bouldering areas, one can see the other big change that occurred to this area.
If you have lived in or driven through either Old Farm or Southeast Bend, you likely noticed that Murphy Road was closed for quite a while (unless compared to Newport Avenue). The result of this closure was the overpass that connects 15th Street to Brosterhaus Road, aimed at relieving some of the traffic off of Reed Market, along with the known railroad crossing issues. Punching Murphy Road through to Third street really helps those who live off of 15th Street (namely The Bridges at Shadow Glen) and the new Pahlisch Community, Easton, being developed across from Caldera High School. If you have not been out to this quadrant of town recently you should check out this amazing new high school and community park; you might even find a new restaurant, food cart or coffee shop.
HOME PRICE ROUNDUP
Photos and listing info from Central Oregon Multiple Listing Service
MID >>
62016 Fall Creek Loop, Bend $925,000 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms 1,828 sq ft 0.2 acres lot, built in 1994 Listed by Grace Gerdes and Shelly Hummel of Keller Williams C.O.
<< LOW
3151 NE Wells Acres Road, Bend $519,000 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms 1,165 sq ft, 0.1 acre lot, built in 2004 Listed by Jamie Garza and Anthony Levison of Windermere Central Oregon
<< HIGH
2406 NW Morningwood Way, Bend $2,199,000 4 bedrooms, 2.5 bathroom 3,174 sq ft, 0.32 acre lot, built in 2005 Listed by John and Tiffany Gidley of Coldwell Banker Bain
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3151 NE WELLS ACRES, BEND 97701 • $519,000
19335 MOHAWK ROAD, BEND 97702 • $600,000
20436 CLAY PIGEON, BEND 97702 • $795,995
64170 PIONEER LOOP, BEND 97701 • $899,995
OPEN SUNDAY 10-12 Cozy 3 bedroom 2 bath Palmer home located in a quiet NE Bend neighborhood. This charming light and bright home features refinished hardwood floors throughout, newer carpet, and high-end laminate floors in bathrooms were replaced within the last year. Fully fenced with larger access to back yard on left side of home and mature trees. This home is a great opportunity for investors or a first-time home buyer.
Nestled among the pines in Deschutes River Woods, this property is just under an acre. Take in the views from the front porch or enjoy the private backyard among the mature trees. This single level, stick built home has vaulted ceilings, new carpets, 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms. The backyard is fully fenced and features a large ~200 sq ft shed. Come see this great home in a serene part of DRW with east access to the National Forest.
Modern ranch style home on oversized fully fenced/ landscaped corner lot with mature trees. Featuring open floor plan with many windows, allowing for plenty of natural light. The luxurious kitchen includes high-end stainless-steel appliances, quartz counter tops throughout, including waterfall island, soft close drawers, tile back splash. The oversized primary suite boasts dual walk-in closets, dual vanities, giant tile to ceiling shower with soaking tub, dual shower head with body sprayers. This home is great for entertaining with a large covered paver patio that included a gas and wood fireplace that is fully vented. The home includes a full surround sound system both inside and outside.
Secluded and private, this small acreage property has a park like setting with plenty of mature trees, conveniently located close to Bend and Redmond. This single level 3 bedroom 2 bath, 1622 sqft ranch style home, features open floor plan with vaulted ceilings. A large primary suite featuring numerous windows and vaulted ceilings. The primary bathroom includes dual vanities. An oversized deck looks outs over the property and a detached garage/shop features an insulated 12 ft garage door, with an additional 400 sqft art studio located on the second floor. The property includes 3.72 acres of COID irrigation irrigated by an underground system, a 20,000 gallon cistern, tool shed, chicken coup, and 400 amp service to the property.
RIVERFRONT LIVING MULTIGENERATIONAL LIVING PERFECT SLICE OF COUNTRY PRICE ADJUSTMENT!
MLS# 220144243 BEND | 2275 NW LAKESIDE PL
$3,500,000 | 3 BD | 4 BA | 3,441 SF | 1.14 ACRES • Passive-solar design & towering windows • Luxurious suite awaits in the North wing • Expansive deck w/ multiple settings • Meticulously maintained • Perched above the river close to Downtown
Ryan McGlone | Principal Broker 541.647.2918 | ryan@teammcglone.com
CASCADE MTN. VIEWS! MLS# 220145488 BEND | 1760 NW 12TH ST
$1,349,000 | 4 BD | 4 BA | 2,424 SF • Multifamily or Multigenerational Living • 600 sqft 1 bed/1 bath ADU above garage • Private patio and fenced yard • Hardwood flooring, granite counters • A/C and new light fixtures
Mark Garcia | Broker | 541.408.3781 Bend Homes Now Team
THIS HOME HAS IT ALL! MLS# 220149459 BEND | 62316 WALLACE RD
$1,179,000 | 4 BD | 2 BA | 2,188 SF • Fully renovated classic rancher • Open & bright great room • Large bonus room and separate office • Private back patio overlooking pastures • Peaceful & quiet close-in location
Sam DeLay & Cole Billings | Brokers 541.678.3290 | www.delayandbillings.com
CHARMING LOG HOME MLS# 220148414 BEND | 3026 NW FAIRWAY HEIGHTS DR
$1,142,000 | 3 BD | 4 BA | 3,076 SF • Timeless, NW Style Home • Main Level Living • Each Bedroom is an Ensuite • Backs up to 3rd Hole of Rivers Edge • Incredible Amount of Storage
Melody Luelling & Mariah Luelling | Brokers 541.948.3107 | luellingteam@cascadehassonsir.com
TRUE GEM IN HIDDEN HILLS
MLS# 220148548 BEND | 65025 92ND ST
$959,900 | 4 BD | 3 BA | 2,583 SF • Set on 1 acre 10 minutes north of Bend • Log home with Cascade Mnt. Views • Built-in bar and pellet fireplace • Large, fenced and landscaped backyard • Separate 2-car garage
Mark Garcia | Broker | 541.408.3781 Bend Homes Now Team
WELCOME HOME TO GARDENSIDE MLS# 220150406 BEND | 60338 HEDGEWOOD LN
$900,000 | 5 BD | 2.5 BA | 2,832 SF • Open floor plan with office on main floor • Large bonus/5th bedroom • Community pool, hot tub & playground • Fully fenced backyard • Backs to landscaped & pathed greenbelt
Christy Benton | Broker 541.325.1437 | christy.benton@cascadesir.com
QUIET SW BEND LOCATION MLS# 220148746 LA PINE | 2543 PATKEN CIR
$729,900 | 5 BD | 3 BA | 3,174 SF • 2-acre lot backing to the Deschutes River • Vaulted ceilings, natural light & spacious • Casita, covered hot tub & 2-stall barn • Huge 4,200 SF RV garage/shop • End of a cul-de-sac in Little River Ranch
Ryan McGlone | Principal Broker 541.647.2918 | ryan@teammcglone.com
WELL-MAINTAINED SINGLE LEVEL MLS# 220147317 BEND | 20600 COUGAR PEAK DR
$659,000 | 3 BD | 2 BA | 1,715 SF • Beautiful Cascade mountain views • Well maintained single level • Open great room with gas fireplace • Fully fenced back yard • Community access to new Alpenglow Park
Cole Billings & Sam DeLay | Brokers 541.241.4868 | www.delayandbillings.com
PRIME WESTSIDE LOCATION
MLS# 220149965 BEND | 21273 BELLFLOWER PL
$629,900 | 3 BD | 3 BA | 1,823 SF • Low-maintenance living in 2-story home • Across from the neighborhood park • Open concept floor plan • Rear covered patio & backyard • Common Space Frontage!
Sean Barton | Broker | 541.306.7669 sean.barton@cascadesir.com MLS# 220147997 BEND | 60858 CULTUS DR
$585,000 | 3 BD | 2 BA | 1,504 SF • Single level quiet cul-de-sac in SW Bend • Large 0.29 acre lot with plenty of space • Covered hot tub off of primary suite • Additional 150 SF Office • Up to $17k in seller credit offered
Mark Garcia | Broker | 541.408.3781 Bend Homes Now Team MLS# 220150577 REDMOND | 1376 SW 27TH ST
$529,900 | 3 BD | 2 BA | 1,706 SF | 0.27 ACRES • 3 bedrooms + office w/ exceptional floor plan • Expansive great room & large kitchen • Covered patio overlooking yard • Raised garden beds, chicken coop & fire pit • 2-car garage & RV/trailer parking
Ryan McGlone | Principal Broker 541.647.2918 | ryan@teammcglone.com MLS# 220148058 BEND | NW BRICKYARD ST #3
$525,000 | 0.57 ACRES • Just over a half acre (.57) corner lot • Close to NWX, Shevlin, and Old Mill Dist. • Small and private community • Only 6 homesites and gated entrance • •Ready for you to build your dream home
Mark Garcia | Broker | 541.408.3781 Bend Homes Now Team