Prime Times 2011

Special Supplement Wednesday, August 17, 2011 KENNEBEC JOURNAL • MORNING SENTINEL

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PRIME TIMES

Kennebec Journal | Morning Sentinel | Special Supplement |

Wednesday, August 17, 2011

Older people offer advice about how to live a longer, healthier life

BY BONNIE N. DAVIS Correspondent

Although there are no guarantees anyone will live a long time, making good choices early on gives people reaching their twilight years a better chance of having a higher quality of life.

“None of us get out of here alive,” said Dr. Basia Yakaitis, a gynecologist surgeon.

However, she said that by eating for themselves and the planet — as well as exercising — people have a better chance of overcoming illnesses, achieving greater mobility and having clearer minds as they age.

“I ate moderately well in my 20s. I don’t have the time, but if I could, I’d eat a vegan, raw food diet or be like Oprah and have a private chef,” Yakaitis said. “I like to eat organic fruits and vegetables, whole grains and brown rice. I stay away from white foods, like white rice, white flour and white sugar.”

As a gynecologist surgeon specializing in pelvic organ prolapse, Yakaitis, age 59, looks 20 years younger.

“If you’re going to eat meat, try to eat grass fed animals with no antibiotics or growth hormones added to their feed. Get eggs that are range free, rather than cage free. Cage free chickens can be crowded in a barn, with no room to move,” she said. “Check the omega balances in fish — some farmraised fish have unhealthy amounts, while salmon is one of the best to eat. If you’re eating for health, you’re eating for the planet. If the planet’s not healthy — guess what — you won’t be either.”

With a background in modern dance, Yakaitis exercises at the gym and walks.

“Keep moving and don’t be overweight; it puts stress on your joints and then you’ll complain about your knees hurting,” she said.

As the Community Wellness

Exercise can be easy and fun:

Photo by Bonnie N. Davis

Photo by Bonnie N. Davis

Cancer survivor Marlene Myers, clowns as Merry Giggles. These are her secrets for a healthy life:

Marlene Myer’s 10 tips for a healthy life after cancer • Think and be positive • Connect with people who have a good outlook on life • Volunteer — there are opportunities everywhere • Read upbeat books • Think of ways to help and serve others— then do it • Laugh, smile and listen to others with all of your heart • Be involved with kids, it keeps you young • Rest and take care of yourself • Do activities outside your home — swim or go listen to music • Learn to play an instrument or take a class

Coordinator at Inland Hospital for the past 10 years, Ellen Wells works to keep people out of the hospital through a variety of programs and partnerships.

One aspect of her job is assisting community members and their families with making life altering changes, regardless of their age.

“You don’t have to make overwhelming changes,” Wells said. “It’s easier to make lifestyle changes when you take

small steps. Those small steps can lead to some very big rewards.”

Wells, who has a bachelor of science degree in community health education from the University of Maine at Farmington, makes support information from nutrition to exercises available to local residents through wellness fairs and community.

“I’m busy too. It’s a challenge in today’s world with the

Mary Wyman, the Kennel Supervisor at The Humane Society for the Greater Waterville Area, always needs people to walk dogs or socialize cats, which combines exercise with volunteering. This is a great option for seniors unable to have their own pets.

business environment and having a family. It takes time, and you have to make the effort,” she said. “It’s very important for children to have a good start in life. It’s harder to make changes as we get older. It’s easy to grab fast foods, but you can make fast food at home.”

Wells encourages people to eat a diet consisting of whole grain cereals, brown rice and legumes.

According to Wells, exercise is a key component of wellness.

“It’s a challenge to get those 30 minutes or more in, every other day, but you can take three, 10-minute walks,” she said.

Although the effects of stress on health is well documented, Benton resident Marlene Myers has some simple tips to address the issue. As a cancer survivor in remission for the past seven

• Exercise for 30 minute, every other day • Walk for 10 to 15 minutes outside, around the mall or up and down steps • Walk or ride a bike to get the mail or do errands • Park away from stores – old, but good advice • Play with — or walk — the dog • Play Frisbee or ball with the kids • Hike or try a local trail • Swim, bike, canoe or kayak • Garden • Fitness centers and pools often have senior citizen special offers • Practice Pilates or yoga with a group or in your home • Take a class in martial arts or a form such as T’ai Chi and Qi Gong • Join a club for walking, skiing, hiking, tennis, etc.

• Exercise with one of the TV trainers years, she believes having a positive outlook and serving others is most important for her happiness and health. After her recovery, Myers, age 69, started an unusual vocation.

“I took a clowning class through adult education at Lawrence High School and it has opened up new doors for fun,” she said.

Clowning as Merry Giggles, Myers performs at local events and parties. She also developed a children’s coloring book for children with cancer, volunteers at hospice camps for the grieving families and for other events.

“I teach kids that it’s okay to laugh,” she said. “After the loss of a loved one, they need to work out emotions.”

More on LIFE, Page 3

Wednesday, August 10, 2011

Life Continued from Page 2

According to Myers — who sings for the terminally ill with the a capella group, TheTourmalines, as well as in the choir at the Fairfield United Methodist Church — music has a healing quality and keeps her focused on the positive.

Although she said she would like to be even more physically fit, Myers said she swims as often as she can and eats a variety of fresh produce from local farms.

“There’s nothing like fresh veggies in the summertime — that’s what I love,” she said.

For Nancy Burwood, of Oakland, setting goals is her secret for longevity.

“In order to keep young, you have to look toward the future,” she said. When you’re a teenager or young adult, the future seems way off. Even though I’m 69, I think I have 20 to 30 years left — my mother lived to be 92. Think into the future and ask yourself what you’ll be doing. Think of goals, specific goals.”

Six years ago, Burwood completed one of her goals. She always wanted to go to art

| Kennebec Journal | Morning Sentinel | Special Supplement school and, in 2005, she graduated from the University of Maine at Augusta with a bachelor’s degree in art.

“I always wanted to study art, so one day I picked up the catalog and turned to the art classes; now I’m going back for a degree in English.”

In her early 50s, local artist Renée Choiniere of Madison is also working on an art degree at the University of Maine at Augusta. She said keeping her inner child alive and healthy will help her have a longer life.

“I’m going back to school, that keeps me young, and tired,” she said, with twinkling eyes. “I play a lot of scrabble and brain teaser games. I’m not too good about eliminating stress from my life, but I believe in keeping my mind active and creative.”

Choiniere said owning pets and having healthy relationships at the forefront of her life are essential.

“I need to stay busy with lots of art, lots of music and lots of interacting with people,” she said.

These active women agree: Taking the time to eat right, adding exercise to the daily routine and keeping a positive outlook help create a healthier mind and body as well as a better chance for longevity.

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Eating tips for optimum health: Eat whole foods, including whole grains, legumes and produce • Buy local dairy products with no growth hormones — most dairies in northern New England fall into this category • Avoid or limit consumption of the white, highly-refined foods such as white flour and white sugar • Avoid fried foods • Eat more fruits and vegetables — they have those lifesaving antioxidants • Increase your intake of fiber • A balanced diet with lots of variety is the healthiest • Add more fresh seafood, freerange poultry and grass-fed meats to your diet • Shop on the outer aisles of the grocery store for fresh, whole foods • Make extra food and freeze several portions, for homemade TV dinners • Buy local produce at the grocery store, shop at farmer’s markets and vegetable stands • Diets do not work as well as long-term changes • Have a cheat day or special day once a week • Start small and reap the big rewards

Photo by Bonnie N. Davis

Fairfield’s oldest senior, Eileen Gould, turned 101-years-old on May 28, 2011. She said her secret for a long life is simple and she uses it every morning: “Just get going – every day.”

INDEX OF ADVERTISERS AAA .......................................................................................8 Central Maine Heart and Vascular Institute.........................17 Central Maine Orthodics-Prosthetics...................................10 Crosby & Neal Funeral Homes and Cremation...................18 Dan & Scott's Cremation & Funeral Service .......................12 Direct Cremation of Maine...................................................16 Elder Care Planning and Solutions .......................................6 Eric's Restaurant .................................................................13 Fieldstone Landing ................................................................6 Forgotten Stoneworks .........................................................15 Gallant Funeral Home .........................................................14 Giberson Funeral Home & Cremation Services ..................15 Kowlton Hewins Roberts Funeral Homes............................10 Lawry Brothers Funeral Home ............................................19 Levey & Wagley, P.A. ...........................................................18 Maine Eye Care Associates ................................................12 MaineGeneral Medical Center.............................................20 Mathieu's Cycle & Fitness Center .........................................8 Mid-Maine Cremation Services ...........................................14 Nale Law Offices .................................................................15

Park Residences .................................................................13 Plummer Funeral Home ........................................................9 Redington Funeral Home ......................................................7 Sebasticook Valley Health ...................................................11 Shorey-Nichols Funeral Home & Cremation Services ........13 Smart Eyecare Center...........................................................7 Staples Funeral and Cremation Service .............................10 Tilton & O'Donnell Attorneys at Law....................................18 University of Maine Augusta - Senior College.....................16 Veilleux Funeral Home ..........................................................7 Waterville Elks .....................................................................18 Wheeler Funeral Home .........................................................8 Wright & Mills, P.A. .............................................................15

About this section This special advertising supplement was produced by the Kennebec Journal/Morning Sentinel. The cover design was by Denise Vear, Creative/Innovations Manager.

If you would like information on running a section about your business or organization, call Business Development Manager Bridget Campbell at (800) 452-4666, Ext. 9155.

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PRIME TIMES

Kennebec Journal | Morning Sentinel | Special Supplement |

Wednesday, August 10, 2011

What do expos, lobsters, and a pig roast have in common?

They are all part of the fun planned by Spectrum Generations this fall in central Maine Senior’s Driving Expo Spectrum Generations Muskie Community Center, in collaboration with AAA, is hosting a one-of-a-kind free Senior Drivers Expo from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Friday, Aug. 19 at the Muskie Center located at 38 Gold Street in Waterville.

Secretary of State Charlie Summers will kick off the event at 10 a.m. Spokespeople from the Bureau of Motor Vehicles and the Waterville Police Department will talk about license renewal, licensing in relation to medical issues and the dos and don’ts of driver safety. AAA will present “Keeping the Keys: help extend your safe driving career,” a workshop to help older drivers be proactive in managing their driving careers, recognize changes in driving that come with age, planning ahead for continued mobility, as well as an overview of resources that can help accomplish those things. For more information, contact Cheryl at 873-4745.

Life Without Limits Expo Mark the calendar to attend Spectrum Generations Life Without Limits Expo from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sept. 20 inside the Cook’s Corner Mall in Brunswick. Admission is free. This is an excellent opportunity for baby boomers, their families and their caregivers to find answers to the daily challenges of aging.

Join us for a fun-filled day of health screenings, flu shots, product demonstrations, presentations, fitness and cooking demos and chair massages. For more information, call Spectrum Generations Southern Midcoast Community Center at 729-0475.

Rockland Health Fair

Come see and experience the vast array of resources the mid-coast community has to offer Surf & Turf at Spectrum Make reservations now for a Generations Day of summer feast at any of three Spectrum Generations Community Wellness, Learning and Making Connections Centers. Spectrum Generations Cohen Center in Hallowell and its Expo being held from 9 a.m. to noon Oct. 29 at Muskie Center in Waterville will Oceanside High School host a Surf & Turf luncheon on in Rockland. Admission Aug. 26. Its Coastal Center in Damariscotta will also hold a Surf is free.

There will be workshops, classes, health screenings, free flu shots for adults, & Turf luncheon on Aug. 31. The and much more. For more information, call Spectrum Generations Rockland cost is $16 for a single lobster, $23.00 for twin lobsters, $15 for a Community Center at 596-0339.

For more information about Spectrum Generations programs, services, and steak and $22 for a steak and lobster combo. All dinners come with a buffet of center events and activities, call 1-800-639-1553, www.spectrumgenerations.org, sides and beverages. Call 1-800-639-1553 to make a reservation at the center of or like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/spectrumgenerations. your choice.

Pig Roast Join us rain or shine for a Pig Roast fundraiser on Sept. 3, hosted by Rita and Doug Sukeforth at their family camp on U.S. Route 201 on the Bingham-Solon town line. This is an annual event held to raise much-needed funds for the Spectrum Generations Meals on Wheels Program and the Hospice Volunteers of the Waterville Area.

Participants should bring their own beverages and lawn chairs and join us for a day of fun and games, barbecue, 50-50 raffle, and a huge live auction. Cost is $15 per single, $20 per couple or $25 for a family. The gates will open at 10 a.m. and the barbecue buffet will start at noon. To register, call Spectrum Generations Muskie Community Center in Waterville at 873-4745.

Wednesday, August 10, 2011

| Kennebec Journal | Morning Sentinel | Special Supplement

PRIME TIMES

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Marrying later in life: Should you have a prenuptial agreement?

BY MICHAEL J. LEVEY Levey and Wagley, P.A., Winthrop

When a marriage occurs later in life, each partner carries along his or her own lifelong experience. Each has a substantial personal, family and economic history. In addition, each party has separate assets and liabilities, developed separately from the new marital partner.

And quite importantly, each partner has a family constellation (children, grandchildren and others) separate from the new marital partner.

When thinking of marrying, the partners inevitably consider the impact the new marriage will have on their separately-developed economic and personal lives.

The questions that arise are: If my new marriage ends in divorce, how can I protect my separately-developed assets?

If my new marriage ends in divorce, will I be entitled to support, or will I have to pay support?

If I remarry, how can I ensure that upon my death, my separate assets will go to my own, original family?

If I make an agreement with my new partner about these subjects, will that agreement hold up in court?

Maine law, in the Uniform Premarital Agreement Act, provides answers to these questions.

The act permits parties to have an agreement that is made in contemplation of the marriage. Under the act, the agreement must be made before the marriage and then takes effect when the couple is married. The agreement must be in writing and signed by the parties. The agreement can be modified or terminated during the marriage if both parties agree.

If my new marriage ends in divorce, how can I protect my separate assets?

The act permits a prenuptial agreement to contain the following kinds of provisions, giving a party the opportunity to protect that party’s separate assets: • The agreement can state that the separate real estate, accounts or retirement assets of a party are to remain the separate property of its owner, and that additions to and increases in value to any such property remain the separate property of its owner.

• The agreement can give a party the exclusive right to manage, re-invest and otherwise completely control that party’s separate assets.

• The agreement can allow a party to keep that party’s separate assets in the

event of divorce.

If my new marriage ends in divorce, will I be entitled to support, or will I have to pay support?

A prenuptial agreement can state that upon divorce neither party will pay support to the other. The agreement can also set forth a specific amount of spousal support. The agreement can state that spousal support will be terminated later, for example upon remarriage of the spousal support payee.

If I remarry, how can I ensure that upon my death, my separate assets will go to my own, original family?

The prenuptial agreement can give a party the opportunity to pass his or her separate assets to that spouse’s original family or other loved ones upon death. A premarital agreement can prevent a surviving spouse from demanding a one-third “elective share” amount from the deceased spouse’s estate and from exercising other rights otherwise available under the law. The agreement can state that the surviving spouse is to receive a certain limited amount, and can require one or both spouses to have wills providing for this specific amount.

If I make an agreement with my new partner about these subject matters, will that

agreement “hold up in court”?

The act upholds these agreements, if they are made in the correct fashion (made in contemplation of marriage, executed before the marriage, written and signed). However, the court will not enforce the agreement if it was not executed voluntarily by the parties. The court will not enforce the agreement if it was an “unconscionable” agreement and the vic-

timized party was kept in the dark about the assets of the other party.

The following suggestions help keep premarital agreements enforceable: • Full financial disclosure: Before signing the agreement, the parties should make an accurate and complete disclosure to each other regarding their separate assets, liabilities and income.

• Separate lawyers for each spouse: Before signing the agreement, each party should have access to separate and independent legal advice.

Does every person who is thinking of marrying later in life need a premarital agreement? Does every person have to keep his or her assets separate from a new spouse?

Of course not. The law doesn’t require premarital agreements, but only permits them. Every person and every marriage is unique. Some couples, for very good reason, want to blend their assets during their new marriage and to permit flexibility as to what happens in the event of divorce or death.

I have clients who, after reviewing the relevant facts, have written premarital agreements, and I have had other clients who have chosen not to write them. The important point is that people marrying later in life ought to give careful attention to the above considerations so that they can choose the legal option that best fits their situation.

The information provided here is for educational purposes only, and should not be construed as legal advice or an answer to a specific legal problem. Michael J. Levey practices family law with the firm of Levey and Wagley, P.A. in Winthrop, Maine. Go to www.leveyandwagley.com.

SUPERCENTENARIANS Reaching the age of 85, 90 or 100 is a feat accomplished by more people today than in the past. Thanks to advances in medical treatments and preventive care, more and more men and women are living beyond the average age expectancy. But what about the concept of living well beyond 100? It’s more common than one would think.

According to The Gerontology Research Group, there may very well be hundreds of living supercentenarians, or those who are at least 110 years of age, worldwide. As of 2011, there are 92 verified living supercentenarians. Here is a list of the first 10, the majority of whom are women living in the United States.

1. Eunice Sanborn, July 20, 1896, United States 2. Besse Cooper, August 26, 1896, United States 3. Walter Breuning, September 21, 1896, United States 4. Chiyono Haegawa, November 20, 1896, Japan 5. Venere Pizzinato, November 23, 1896, Italy 6. Shige Hirooka, January 16, 1897, Japan 7. Dina Manfredini, April 4, 1897, United States 8. Jiroemon Kimura, April 19, 1897, Japan 9. Ella Schuler, September 5, 1897, United States 10. Delma Kollar, October 31, 1897, United States

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PRIME TIMES

Kennebec Journal | Morning Sentinel | Special Supplement |

Wednesday, August 10, 2011

Seniors should be aware of their 2011 Medicare Benefits

BY JOHN NALE

President Obama signed into law the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act of 2010 on March 23, 2010, and the Health Care and Education Reconciliation Act of 2010 on March 30, 2010.

These two laws, collectively referred to as the Affordable Care Act, will change both the availability of health insurance and how health care is delivered in America.

The law is in the early stages of implementation. Some provisions, including some Medicare provisions, were effective upon enactment. Others are phased in over a number of years, and still others become effective in 2014. This article describes provisions of the Affordable Care Act that most directly affect Medicare beneficiaries. Remember, the Medicare benefits you currently receive will not change and your benefits are getting better.

update a screening schedule for the next five to 10 years, based on recommendations of the United States Preventive Task Force.

vate insurance plans that contract with the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services under Medicare Part C to provide benefits to those who voluntarily enroll in the plans.

Medicare Advantage plans must provide all of the guaranteed benefits under Part A and Part B and may provide additional benefits with monies they receive in excess of the cost of providing the guaranteed benefits.

Under the funding mechanism in effect before enactment of the Affordable Care Act, Medicare Advantage plans paid, on average, vascular screenings; 109 percent – 113 percent of the • Diabetes screening; cost of providing the same services • Medicare nutrition therapy to to beneficiaries enrolled in the trahelp people manage diabetes or kid- ditional Medicare program. The ney disease; extra payments resulted in the fed• Prostate cancer screening; eral government expending $14 • Annual flu shot, pneumonia billion more than it would have vaccine, and the hepatitis B vacspent had Medicare Advantage cine; plan enrollees remained in the tra• Bone mass measurement; ditional Medicare program.

• Abdominal aortic aneurysm The Affordable Care Act phases screening to check for a bulging in changes to the Medicare blood vessel; Advantage plan payment structure, • HIV screening for people who starting with a freeze in payments are increased risk or who ask for to Medicare Advantage plans for the test; and 2011.

• Smoking cessation counseling.

Cost-sharing is also eliminated Simplification of Annual for the wellness visit and personal Beneficiary Election Period prevention plan.

The Open Enrollment Period, in which a beneficiary can enroll in Changes in Payment to or withdraw from a Medicare Medicare Advantage Plans Advantage plan during the first The greatest amount of savings in Medicare will be achieved from changes in payment to Medicare Advantage plans. These are the pri-

Elimination of Cost-Sharing for Preventive Services The Affordable Care Act also eliminated cost-sharing for most of the preventive services already covered under Medicare, effective Jan. 1, 2011. The preventive services to which the provision applies are Prevention and Wellness those that are appropriate for the The Affordable Care Act adds coverage for a new “wellness visit” individual. The services for which no cost-sharing (deductible and/or and eliminates cost-sharing for copayment) will be charged are: almost all the preventive services • Mammograms every 12 months covered by Medicare, effective Jan.1, 2011. These changes reflect a for eligible beneficiaries age 40 and older; shift in policy to focus healthcare • Colorectal cancer screening, more on prevention and wellness including flexible sigmoidoscopy or than on treating acute illness, with colonoscopy; the goal of reducing costs.

• Cervical cancer screening, including a Pap smear test and Wellness Visit pelvic exam; Starting in January 2011, • Cholesterol and other cardioMedicare will cover a new annual wellness visit and will provide payARE YOU WORRIED ABOUT YOUR ment for the creation of a personalELDERLY RELATIVE BEING SAFE AT HOME? ized prevention plan. The wellness Life is a journey – and sometimes the way visit will: becomes overwhelming. Someone who is familiar with the path – with unraveling the maze of issues • Include a health risk assessment and options, can help you to: to establish or update the individ• Identify problems, eligibility for assistance and need for services • Educate you on appropriate options which will lead to informed ual’s medical and family history; decisions • Develop a plan and locate resources that are tailored to your needs • Create a list of current and financial situation • Guide you along a path to a solution right for you providers and suppliers involved in Call or e-mail to schedule an providing medical care, including a appointment at our new office.

HOME ASSESSMENT BY APPOINTMENT list of prescriptions; • FREE PHONE CONSULTATION • Take measurements of height, weight, body mass index, blood Elder Care Planning pressure, and other routine measand Solutions urements; 120 Drummond Avenue, • Detect cognitive impairments.

Peg Soucy Waterville 660-6163 LSW, ACM, CCM e-mail: psoucy@ecpsme.com During the wellness visit, the Professional Geriatric Care www.ecpsme.com Manager health professional will establish or Additional office space available at 120 Drummond Ave. • Call 680-8249

three months of the year but cannot change Prescription Drug Plans, is eliminated. Starting in 2011, an individual who enrolls in a Medicare Advantage plan may return to original Medicare and a Part D plan during the first 45 days of the year. Starting in the fall of 2011, the annual coordinated election period for Part C and Part D plans will run from Oct. 15 through Dec. 7 of each year, rather than from Nov. 15 to Dec. 31.

Closing the Medicare Prescription Drug “Donut Hole” Starting in 2011, the coverage gap will decrease each year until the year 2020, when it will be eliminated. At that time, beneficiaries will pay 25 percent co-insurance for prescriptions. If you reach the donut hole this year, the drug companies must reduce the cost of name-brand drugs by 50 percent and reduce the cost of generic drugs by seven percent.

The bottom line: the Medicare benefits you currently receive will not change and your benefits are getting better.

John Nale is a Waterville attorney and president of the Maine Association of Area Agencies on Aging. He has served on several state and legislative committees that deal with the elderly.

FIELDSTONE Landing Building a community, one neighbor at a time One of Many Plans

• Close to town • Great Views • Energy efficient site-built homes • 2 Year Warranty

55+ Planned Community of Single Family Homes OPEN HOUSE TWICE A MONTH on Saturdays from 11 a.m.–3 p.m.

Or call Paul or Christine Lussier at 859-1966 for an appointment DIRECTIONS: I-95 exit 127 towards Oakland. at Car Quest take Shores Road to Fieldstone Landing

Wednesday, August 10, 2011

PRIME TIMES

| Kennebec Journal | Morning Sentinel | Special Supplement

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Making the move to independent retirement living

The Golden Years Making the move to an independent living community can be an affordable way to make the most of one’s retirement years. Kayatt, Klein and Eickhoff have all seen

the benefits to cutting ties to a house or an apartment in favor of community living.

Klein was able to take advantage of a promotion from Holiday Retirement, which covered up to $1,000 of her moving expenses, and Kayatt received her birthday month free when she moved in.

As for Eickhoff, the payoff for him is being surrounded by people his own age with shared experiences and a passion for living the good life.

“This is everything I ever thought about doing when I retired,” said Eickhoff. “Sometimes people reminisce about the past being great, but I was fighting in the military for 22 years and working hard, and now these are my golden years. I can actually relax and people take care of me for a change.”

For more information on making the move to independent retirement living, visit holidaytouch.com or call 1-800-322-0999.

Eyecare Cen t r a t

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Dr. Richard Smart Dr. Lyn Desjardins Dr. Philip Savage Dr. Sarah Gladstone Dr. Kerry Kaplan Dr. Lesley Sobeck Dr. Helen Le

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Retirement. “For many seniors, when I lived alone.” switching to a community that includes one manageable, monthly Ask the Right Questions flat fee gives them the ability to To calculate the true costs of plan out the next 15 to 20 years making the move to an independand know exactly what they can ent retirement community, Brown expect to spend and what they can cautions seniors to ask as many afford.” questions as possible prior to For Klein, it not only made fimoving in, to uncover any buy-in nancial sense, it also gave her fees, to determine if a long-term back some of her freedom. lease is required and to see if the “I can take the community bus “feel” of the community is right.

Crunching the Numbers down to the bank or out to dinner.

“It doesn’t make financial sense Mereen Klein, 86, started look- I can even go to the doctor and to make the move if you aren’t ing at the costs of keeping her my appointments without bugging comfortable in the new communiown apartment versus independent anyone for a ride,” said Klein. “I ty and will want to move out withliving when her eyesight declined. have more independence now than in a few months,” said Brown. “It Klein needed assistance with transportation and didn’t want to keep bugging her son to drive her around, so she decided to move to an independent retirement living community that met her needs.

“It was right for me with my fixed income, and the money covers everything,” said Klein. “I don’t pay for TV, or to have my room cleaned. I couldn’t believe Advance Planning what I got for the money — it was There are many advantages to really something.” arranging your funeral or cremation To determine what makes finanservices in advance with a Dignity Memorial® provider. cial sense, seniors need to add up Redington Funeral Home the true costs of managing a home 5 Park Street, Waterville, Maine 04901 versus being part of a retirement Telephone ~ 207-873-3611 community.

Veilleux Funeral Home “Even if you no longer have a 8 Elm Street, Waterville, Maine 04901 mortgage payment, you still have Telephone ~ 207-872-7676 fluctuating monthly expenses inFax: 207-877-9121 cluding utilities, taxes, phone, cable and food that can add up significantly,” said Stan Brown, chief operating officer for of Holiday

needs to not only be affordable, but a great place to live as well.”

Seventy three-year-old Julianne (Judy) Kayatt knows this all too well. She sold her home and moved into a community that didn’t offer much for her money and wasn’t as caring as she’d hoped.

After only a few months, she started her search again and was fortunate to find that a Holiday Retirement community was a perfect fit for her.

“My family likes that I am happy here, and I like that I can still be independent and live here,” said Kayatt. “I am free to go where I want; I am enjoying activities and events and I’m surrounded by friends. I know I can be happy here for a long time.”

S

When 72-year-old Army veteran Ted Eickhoff was at his local Veterans hospital for an appointment recently, he struck up a conversation with another patient about selling his home and downsizing. As luck would have it, Eickhoff’s fellow patient lived in a local independent retirement community owned by Holiday Retirement, and raved about the benefits. Eickhoff was sold.

“I couldn’t believe how much you get for the money,” said Eickhoff. “It is so nice to have everything taken care of with just one monthly payment. It covers everything I need, including amazing meals. And if you need another snack, the chefs just make it for you!”

Eickhoff, a retired Command Sergeant Major, is part of a growing number of seniors who are planning for an independent living future.

In fact, a recent AARP poll found that nearly 60 percent of Boomers say they are concerned about living independently, and more than 50 percent say they have begun to think about how they would pay for independent living assistance as they get older.

Complete Family Eyecare

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Wednesday, August 10, 2011

MaineGeneral erases the negative image from nursing home care Living communities form “neighborhoods” and independence. We’ve changed that. We give residents a voice in how they spend their days. It’s the opposite from the old medical model where everyone is on a schedule driven by tasks (that) staff needs to accomplish.”

Gone are strict schedules.

Residents at Glenridge and Gray Birch decide when they get up in the morning, when they go to bed at night and what activities they participate in during the day.

“The reality is we’re open 24hours-a-day. We’re not a nursing home; we are homes that happen to provide some nursing care,” said John Rice, administrator at Gray Birch. “Less than an hour is spent on clinical activities; it’s how you fill the other 23 hours that makes the difference. If a resident wants a shower at 2 a.m., we make that happen.”

BY DIANE E. PETERSON Senior Editor, Marketing & Communications MaineGeneral Health

Cheryl Ring continues to be impressed with the positive, upbeat environment at her mother’s nursing home, MaineGeneral’s Glenridge Living Community.

“You’d think this would be a place where people feel negative, but it’s just the opposite,” Ring said.

Key to Ring’s comfort and peace of mind is the warm and loving care her 85-year-old mother, Barbara, gets from the staff members, who have been her caregivers for the three years she has lived there.

“The medical care, Mom’s interaction with her loving, cheerful team and the great communication with family members is fabulous,” she said. “I know my mother is in good hands.”

Dedicating direct care staff members to each resident is one of the hallmarks of the culture change that’s been underway at Glenridge and MaineGeneral’s Gray Birch communities since 2005.

“The goal is to create environments that are less institutional and hospital-like and more like a real home and a real community,” said Connie McDonald, administrative director of Glenridge and Gray Birch. “Our focus is on building relationships, giving residents choices and flexibility in how they plan their day’s activities, and giving employees the power to bring their ideas to management and make day-to-day decisions with residents.”

It’s not your grandmother’s nursing home “No one wants to be in a nursing home,” McDonald said.

“There is still the idea that residents give up their autonomy once they go into a nursing home. It represents a loss of control and a loss of their own space, choice

Success starts with dedicated staff The key is the personal relaMore on NURSING, Page 9

Contributed photo

Enjoying a family cookout at MaineGeneral’s Glenridge Living Community, left to right, are Cheryl Ring, Stephanie Barley, Kate Walsh CNA, Carl Ring and Barbara Ring, seated.

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By working with the same residents all the time, caregivers and residents develop close personal relationships, such as this one between BobbiJo McKinnis, CNA and Jeanette Rodrigue.

Nursing Continued from Page 8

tionships among residents and their dedicated nursing team, McDonald said.

“By working with the same residents every day, caregivers develop close, personal relationships with their residents,” she said. “They know their residents’ likes and dislikes, their personal history and can anticipate their needs.”

Certified Nurses Aides also notice subtle changes in condition that may signal the beginning of a medical problem, so it can be addressed before it becomes serious.

“There’s a feeling of ownership and pride that nursing staff develops, knowing they did the best job they could caring for their residents,” McDonald said.

Fewer institutional names Even the vocabulary has changed to emphasize the homelike feel. Instead of nursing units, residents at Glenridge live in “neighborhoods” called the Cove, the Valley and the Gardens. At Gray Birch, residents live in

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either the Pines Community or the Birches Community. Instead of a recreation room, residents take part in activities in the community center.

“We don’t say ‘new admissions’ any more. We say we’re having a new neighbor move in.

Instead of saying we have 125 beds, we say we have space for 125 people to live here. It sounds better, especially to family members who are struggling with the change in their loved ones’ status,” McDonald said.

Leaders in culture change Glenridge and Gray Birch have been national leaders in residentcentered culture change. In 2005, Glenridge was selected to work with the American Health Quality Organization to create a culture change training video that was used nationally.

Glenridge also was chosen as a resource to develop trainings for the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid. Administrators also have shared their experience and techniques with others around the country through “webinars.” And this month, four administrators from Glenridge and Gray Birch were invited to present a panel discussion at a national conference for nursing home providers.

Families are included Families are very much a part of residents’ activities. On a recent summer day, family members of all ages joined their loved ones for a cookout. And the care extends to them. “We have a lot of spouses who spend all day here. They continue to contribute to the quality of their loved one’s lives and we take care of them too,” McDonald said.

Cheryl Ring appreciates that.

9

She recalls a time when she became overwhelmed and staff members were there for her.

“Everybody has been supportive and watches out for me. One day I had a little meltdown and a caregiver called me and we chatted for the longest time,” Ring said. “It made all the difference. It was a turning point for me to accept my mother’s Alzheimer’s and was incalculable. We don’t pay for that, but it’s worth a lot.”

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Kennebec Journal | Morning Sentinel | Special Supplement |

Wednesday, August 10, 2011

Maybe you used to have a dog when you were younger. Perhaps you’ve always wanted one. But now you’re wondering if it’s a good idea — do you have what it takes to provide a loving home for a four-footed companion? And with life’s uncertainties, what would happen to the dog if you couldn’t care for him or her?

Older dogs, greyhounds can make perfect companions for senior citizens to be made lightly because dogs adoption is over and you’re on tend to form a strong bond with your own. We’re here whenever you need us, to help you and people, according to dog There are always more dogs your dog succeed.” experts. in shelters and rescue facilities Mary Towle, the agency’s coAt Maine Greyhound than homes for them. Senior Placement Service, an Augusta- founder and placement repredogs —5- years-old and older based nonprofit rescue organiza- sentative, not only fields adop— are typically among the most tion dedicated to finding homes tion inquiries, but offers a difficult to place. But an older for retired racing Greyhounds, a wealth of experience about dog could be the perfect pet for written agreement assures that if identifying and navigating an older person. behavioral and canine psycholoadopters cannot keep their dog Puppies are cuddly and gy issues. for any reason, the agency will adorable, but they can be high take the hound back and seek Sawyer and co-founder and energy and high maintenance. president, Scot Bruns, are the another good home. This has Helping them adjust to a home, made all the difference to some “go-to” resources for mastering house training, basic Greyhound health-related conolder folks with medical conobedience and manners can cerns. cerns, or who are simply worrequire a serious commitment of ried that their dog may outlive Prospective adopters first distime and attention as well as cuss their interest with Towle by them. patience. telephone at 846-4707 and then Louise Sawyer, veterinarian By contrast, an older dog meet in person with Bruns to technician and kennel manager tends to be far less needy and find just the right dog. Thanks at the Greyhound placement disruptive, while still offering to Bruns’ experience and intuservice on Old Belgrade Road, boundless devotion and comition, and his uncanny ability to said: “Just because you’ve panionship. In fact, many prosigned the papers and walked listen, observe and match up fessionals have noted that older out the door doesn’t mean the people and Greyhounds, the dogs seem particularly grateful to be given a second chance to be part of a loving household.

Staples Funeral Service of Gardiner has been providing Acquiring a dog can be a professional, caring funeral services to the surrounding great way to counter the communities of central Maine since 1928. inevitable human tendency to feel isolated and unneeded as a We offer a wide variety of services from cremation to traditional burial and person ages. A dog often will be cater to all denominations. We will take care of your loved one’s final a loyal and nonjudgmental complans and wishes with the utmost care and consideration. panion through thick and thin.

Scientists have proven that stroking a pet can measurably lower a person’s blood pressure.

53 Brunswick Avenue, Gardiner The pet would depend on the P.O. Box 598 senior for food, shelter and out582-3102 ~ www.staplesfuneralhome.com ings for modest exercise and a change of scenery that would likely be beneficial for both owner and pet.

Adopting from a rescue facility or shelter could be great idea and the senior would be providing a much-needed home for a deserving animal. The agency or organization staff could address the senior’s concerns, as well as offer an expert perspective to help the person find a good match. It is a decision not

BY NANCY P. MCGINNIS Correspondent

agency has had a good track record for successful placements since it was launched in 1993. As a Greyhound adopter, a person can also make new human friends who share their interests. Owners are welcomed into a growing community of like-minded souls who convene for social events and “meet-andgreet” opportunities to build awareness for the agency.

If a senior thinks a Greyhound is not his or her speed — guess again. The most commonly used descriptions are “mellow” and “couch potato.”

True, some Greyhounds have hit astonishing speeds on the race track, as much as 40 or 45 mph.

But, as Sawyer pointed out, a three tenths-of-a-mile sprint around a dog track is over in less than 30 seconds and, typi-

cally, the hounds then retreat to their racing kennel for up to a week before the next sprint. So a leisurely walk around the neighborhood could be a perfect activity for both a senior owner and dog.

Unless a person has a fenced-in yard, leashing a Greyhound of any age is a must because they are “sight hounds,” prone to taking off after anything in motion. If a senior adopts a retired Greyhound who has never known life outside the racing kennel, the owner should be prepared for an adjustment period as the dog learns not only how to fit in with the family, but also has a chance to encounter household phenome-

More on COMPANION, Page 11

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11

Companion Continued from Page 10

na such as stairs and mirrors for the first time in his or her life.

Since Greyhounds are both intelligent and eager to please, the transition phase is typically both brief and successful.

With their sleek and graceful silhouettes, Greyhounds — one of the oldest canine breeds on earth — appear often in classical art, lending an air of nobility and refinement. But in real life, their occasional goofiness also provides appealing comic relief.

So, if a senior citizen is looking for a loyal companion, an excuse to get out and active, a loving companion, a good laugh and a friendly lick on the nose, a retired racer could be a “greyt” answer.

Nancy McGinnis photos

Greyhounds, known to run as fast as 45 mph on the race course, are actually quiet, gentle, loving companions whose lifestyles are typically not so fast-paced. The Maine Greyhound Placement Service is said to excel at successfully matching retired racing hounds with adopters.

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Kennebec Journal | Morning Sentinel | Special Supplement |

Wednesday, August 10, 2011

Resumé tips for baby boomers Working after retirement Brushing up on computer skills and drafting a new resume can help older adults successfully re-enter the work force after retirement.

Be it directly or indirectly, no one has proven immune from the impact of the struggling economy. Children too young to work may have been forced to deal with financial cutbacks their parents made, while those who retired prior to the economic downturn may have seen the value of their investment portfolios dwindle.

Baby Boomers, a term generally used for the generation of people born between the years of 1946 and 1964, who are out of work have discovered a job market in which their experience, once such a valuable asset, could actually be considered a disadvantage. Companies looking to cut financial corners might choose less experienced candidates who won’t cost as much to compensate.

In fact, according to a 2010 bulletin from AARP, more than half of unemployed people age 55-plus were out of work for at least six months.

For Boomers still looking for work, the following resumé-writing tips could help make them stand out among the many of applicants.

• Be specific. In such a competitive job market, it can help applicants to be as specific as possible on their resumés. Forgo traditional buzzwords for accomplishments.

Note specific quotas met and any specific projects worked on. Today’s hiring managers are overwhelmed with applicants and are more likely to remember candidates who tout verifiable accomplishments than those who resort to the same old buzzwords.

• Abandon the rules of yesteryear. In such a competitive job market, the old rules of resuméwriting no longer apply. Conventional wisdom has long recommended keeping resumes short and sweet, limiting them to one page and not going back more than 10 years. Baby Boomers should forget these rules, instead listing any past employment that is relevant to the job, regardless of how long it was.

If it takes more than a page to list all relevant details, use as many pages as needed.

• Stay current. Most of today’s resumés are submitted electronically. Once submitted, these resumés are included in a database that fil-

ters them based on certain terms and keywords. Be sure to include all the current technological terms necessary to perform the job for which you’re applying. If you routinely come across job postings for which your technological experience comes up short, start learning and begin including this on your resumé.

• Market yourself. Unemployed Baby Boomers need to market themselves effectively. Many will be writing their resumés for the first time in years. When doing so, ask yourself why a prospective company should hire you? Be sure your resumé answers this question effectively.

• Include training along with education. Many Baby Boomers likely finished schooling many years ago. However, it can help to include additional professional training you have had over the years. In addition to an “Education” section, include a “Training” section that shows prospective employers that you have kept up-to-date in your field. Certain credentials, such as training in since-outdated computer programs, should be left off the resumé, but include any additional training that’s current and relevant to the position you’re applying for.

There’s no longer a magic number for retirement. Some people find that they want to work past the traditional retirement age, while others discover they need to. In addition, some retirees discover that they actually liked working and want to return to work rather than settle into retirement.

Sixty-five is no longer the required age to stop working. In fact, many people are foregoing retirement and staying with the work force. Why? No single reason applies to everyone, but finances often come into play.

Thanks to a troubled economy that has carried over into the workplace, pensions and severance packages are no longer the norm for retiring workers. When faced with the prospect of reduced funds and dwindling Social Security benefits, many choose to simply keep on working. Furthermore, individuals who retire before 65 are often faced with finding their own health insurance plans because Medicare doesn’t start until age 65. Even so, high prescription costs for chronic conditions can exceed the allowance of Medicare. Employee insurance plans tend to have better options, and that often factors into an employee’s retirement decision.

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Many people continue working because they actually enjoy it, and not because of some financial necessity.

Working tends to keep the mind sharp and helps seniors feel like contributing members of society.

According to a study conducted by the American Psychiatric Association, retirees who continued to work in a bridge job (meaning part-time or temporary employment) experienced fewer major diseases and fewer functional limitations than those who fully retired. (Researchers considered only physician-diagnosed health problems, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, cancer, lung disease, heart disease, stroke and psychiatric problems.)

People thinking of remaining in the work-force can check with employers to see if retirement is mandatory or voluntary. Seniors re-entering the work force may want to brush up on some skills and reconnect with former employers or colleagues to make the transition easier.

Here are some other strategies to consider.

Refurbish your resumé. Focus on what things you can do rather than what you did in the past. You may be up against younger applicants and will have to make a case for your hire.

Be flexible. You may need health benefits more than a high salary. You can work with an employer to develop a compensation package that is mutually beneficial.

Develop computer skills. Today’s work environment relies heavily on computer skills. It is unwise for you to think you’ll get by on experience alone. Obtain a rudimentary education in computer usage and common office programs, which can set you apart from other older applicants.

Know there’s nothing to prove.

Retirees have the benefit of taking their time and finding the right fit in a post-retirement job. Unless money is an issue, shop around until you find the job that appeals to you, even if it’s part-time or lower salary.

Wednesday, August 10, 2011

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Baby boomers should plan ahead The senior population is growing by leaps and bounds. According to the United States Census Bureau, by 2011 there will be twice the amount of seniors that there were in 2000. That’s because the first Baby Boomers will turn 65 that year. Boomers should start thinking about estate planning now if they haven’t already.

Estate planning is the process of dissolving the items and property owned, as well as making end-of-life arrangements. Taking steps while one is physically and mentally able ensures that plans will be carried out as a person desired. It can also alleviate some of the burden on surviving family members when the time comes.

There are a number of things individuals

can keep in mind when planning their estates and making other important decisions.

• An estate plan is important regardless of personal wealth. A person with only $10 to his name can still draw up a plan.

• It’s never too soon to start estate planning. While it’s hopeful to expect a long life, sudden illness or other conditions are impossible to predict. Taking the time now to create an estate plan ensures that desires will be met and family will be left knowing how to carry out a person’s wishes.

• Estate planning involves a number of components: - will - power of attorney/executor of estate - living will or healthcare proxy

- trust • A will is perhaps one of the most important estate planning documents to draw up. It wills where assets will go and who will be in charge of financial and personal affairs when a person dies. It is inexpensive to draw up a will (there are even legal forms a person can purchase to do it oneself) even if an attorney is hired. At the least, everyone should have a will.

• Compile a list of all personal assets and account numbers. It will help others sort through personal effects when the time comes.

• Boomers should talk about their plans.

Inheritances and wills can be tricky business and one that causes heated debate during a

time of great emotion. Talking about plans beforehand allows surviving family and friends to be aware of what lies ahead.

• Consider reducing your estate. Individuals can give up to $13,000 per year ($26,000 if gifting as a couple). This can reduce the potential tax burden on a spouse or a family member if estate funds are given to them after a person’s death. Unlimited medical and educational bills can be paid if they are made payable directly to the institution where the expense was incurred.

Baby Boomers in the prime of life may not want to think about estate planning and end-of-life issues. However, it’s never too soon to set a plan in motion to protect loved ones.

Pre-planning a funeral Death is not a topic many people prefer to discuss. However, discussing funeral planning and making arrangements can be a smart financial move and one that limits large decisions at a time of heightened emotions.

Every year millions of people in North America make the decision to pre-plan a funeral. The process is also known as pre-need planning.

Individuals can even take out insurance policies that direct benefits to funeral expenses.

The main purpose of pre-need planning is to alleviate the financial burden and decision-making during times of grief and stress. Well-executed plans can make the funeral process run like a well-oiled machine.

It’s never too early to begin preplanning a funeral. Making a list of information that will go to a trusted family member, executor of one’s estate or a funeral director is one way to start. Here are some items to include: • Name • Date of birth • Place of birth • Social security member • Location of will • Military service • Place of disposition, whether a cemetery or crematorium • Organ donation preferences • Funeral and/or wake preferences • Name of funeral home and director • Copies of receipts and contracts for any services purchased

• Any other important information, such as location of safety deposit box information, attorney names, etc.

There are very good reasons for pre-need planning. All arrangements can be thoroughly considered and spelled out so they meet a person’s desires. If he or she has a preference in cemetery or prefers to be interred at a mausoleum, these requests can be expressed and not assumed by family members.

Pre-planning also enables a person to shop around for the most affordable services, caskets and funeral homes. Because the average cost of a funeral is between

$10,000 to $15,000, it is important to spend money wisely. Pre-planning also helps avoid inflation of costs later on, enabling a person to lock in the cost of services now.

Stress and grief can make family members unable to cope with decisions during the time of death. As a result, one of the most important reasons for pre-need planning is to make the process one in which close friends and family members can come to grips with the death, rather than having to run around for a few days and make arrangements in haste. This way loved ones can simply remember a person how he or she was instead of choosing

clothing, disposition places, service wording, and the like.

A funeral director can walk a person through the process of preplanning a funeral. He or she is often licensed to sell cemetery plots

and can take much of the work out of the process. A community or family-owned business may have a rapport in the area and offer the best deals or the desired level of personalized service.

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14

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Wednesday, August 10, 2011

University of Maine at Augusta presents “A Forum on the Future…”

Lecture series looks at the world of our grandchildren and our choices If you are a grandparent, a grand aunt or uncle, or anyone over 50, it is very likely you’ve asked yourself, or maybe others, “What kind of world are we leaving to upcoming generations?”

Will our grandchildren, those who remain in Maine, be a generation saddled with unemployment, substance abuse, obesity and teen pregnancy? Will they be living in an environment with insufficient clean water and cluttered with billboards? Or will there be a vibrant economy with opportunities and quality of life that will cause young people to want to stay?

How can older people help assure that the state’s educational systems prepare youth for jobs of the future?

To address such questions, The University of Maine at Augusta Senior College is planning a lecture series called “A Forum on the Future — The World of Our Grandchildren, and What you Can Do About It.” Five programs, extending from early October 2011 through the winter of 2012 are planned. The purpose of the forums is to promote the idea that “if you want to predict the future, create it.”

Forum planners hope to encourage greater involvement and action on the part of senior citizens — and the broader community — in shaping Maine’s future. The series will be open to the community, but will be held on Sunday afternoons to make the programs more accessible to senior citizens.

Laurie Lachance, former state economist and current president and chief executive officer of the Maine Development Foundation, will be the lead-off speaker on Oct. 2. She will talk about Maine’s economy and what needs to be done to assure its strength.

On Nov. 6, Habib Dagher, director of the AEWC Advanced Structures and Composites Center at UMaine, will discuss energy independence, the environment and Maine jobs. Speakers in sub-

sequent programs will address issues of education to prepare youth for jobs in Maine’s future, health and health care policies.

At a final session on March 4, Paul Kando, head of Midcoast Green Collaborative, will summarize the series and present his vision of life in tomorrow’s Maine. At each session, following refreshments and a time to converse, there will be an opportunity for a panel of discussants and the audience to challenge the speakers with questions of their own.

Senior College (UMASC) is open to all persons 50 years of age or older, their spouses and partners. The many options include an ongoing Concerts at Jewett series, classes, a winter Brown Bag series, Book Groups, and a walking group. For more information check www.uma.edu, and www.concertsatjewett.com, or call 207-621-3551.

Did You Know?

Before they reached retirement age, seniors spent most of their time establishing a household, working and caring for children. Once retirement arrives, many did not know what to do with their time.

There are so many hobbies and activities that seniors can get involved with if only a little research is done — and most don’t cost much money. From sporting activities to clubs to volunteer work to personal crafts, the list of options is endless, and it will likely take a lifetime to get everything done. A quick search on the Internet can yield a host of options and give individuals contact information for local groups and meetings that take place in the area. Craft stores offer classes for the budding hobbyist, or check out a community college for continuing education classes and opportunities for discounted courses.

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Wednesday, August 10, 2011

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15

Protecting finances from Investment and retirement glossary nursing home expenses Nursing homes are necessary for many aging individuals. While they do provide care that may otherwise prove too difficult for the average family member, the fact remains that nursing homes can be quite expensive and quickly eat away at a resident’s assets. In order to protect themselves, many seniors prefer to liquidate assets or “hide” money from nursing homes. There are mixed views on the legality and morality of this issue.

The average cost of a private room in a nursing home in the United States ranges from $70,000 to $100,000+ each year. Semi-private rooms aren’t much lower in cost. In general, the resident of the nursing home pays for his or her stay. This comes through private savings, investments and even other assets, such as their homes. Individuals can see their entire nest egg depleted in a matter of a few years, leaving no financial legacy for their successors.

In order to avoid depletion of assets, people who think a nursing home might be in their future often go to great lengths to hide their assets. In doing so, it may be up to government resources, like Medicaid, to pay for the care instead. But taxpayers who must foot the cost of government programs may cry foul over these tactics.

Others argue that it is their right to shelter funds that they worked years to accumulate. They may state that the rising costs of nursing homes is disproportionate to the actual care received. With this notion in mind, plans are often made to protect assets from being acquired by nursing homes. Those of this mind set can take the following steps to protect assets.

Remember the five-year rule.

For those who are going to transfer assets, it should be done early on.

Nursing homes and government agencies funding low-income individuals look back at five-years of financial history. Any transfers should be done more than fiveyears before nursing home care is needed.

Irrevocable trusts. Individuals can transfer funds into a trust which is in the name of a trustee.

Nursing homes cannot use this

money because it is not in the resident’s name.

Increase value of exempted items. Some personal items are exempt from Medicaid. In some instances this may be a homestead or a vehicle. Improve the home and buy a new car. Invest in new furnishings and other personal effects.

Donate to charity. Make regular contributions to charity to diminish personal assets.

Offer gifts to family. Spend the money on family members, including big-ticket items. Setting up trusts for grandchildren or children are other options.

Transfer the deed. To play it safe, some people prefer to put the deed of their house in another person’s name, like a child’s, to protect it from seizure.

Purchase long-term care insurance. Having an insurance policy expressly for the purpose of nursing homes or a care attendant will provide funds from the policy instead of personal assets.

-Metro Creative Connection

Financial jargon can make the process of getting one's finances in order and making smart economic decisions a bit of a challenge. To the average person, figuring out terminology can be a stumbling block and a hassle some want to avoid.

However, it's important to know some of the lingo associated with financial planning to ensure money is being saved and spent in a responsible way.

401(k): In the United States, a retirement plan where money is diverted into an account and then invested. Current income tax is deferred until the money is withdrawn upon maturity.

Amortization schedule: A comprehensive schedule of payments determining the breakdown of the mortgage amount, interest, principle received, and balance due through each period of the loan until the loan balance reaches zero.

Annuity: A stream of fixed payments that is generally paid as part of a life insurance policy or retirement fund.

Appraisal: An estimated value of property used most often in real

estate transactions.

Bankruptcy: A legally declared inability of an individual or organization to pay their creditors.

Dividend: A portion of a company's profit paid to common and preferred shareholders. The dividend is paid in a fixed amount for each share of stock held, whether in cash or more stock.

Hedge fund: An aggressive investment fund generally open to a limited number of investors.

Interest: Fees paid on borrowed assets.

IRA: Individual Retirement Accounts were initially set up in 1974 to provide a retirement option for individuals who were not covered by an employer-sponsored plan.

Eventually it was opened up so anyone under the age of 70 could donate up to a certain amount of income a year.

Liquidity: The ability to turn assets into cash without losing a lot of value.

Longevity risk: The risk a pension fund or life insurance compa-

ny takes on when offering its plans, due to the increasing life expectancy rate.

Pension: A deferred compensation scenario by where an employer pays an employee a portion of income based upon length of service and employee age. Some pensions can be contributed to by the employee himself, with the employer matching the contribution.

Portfolio: Collection of stocks, bonds and money market instruments owned by an individual or company.

Prime Rate: A term applied in many countries to a reference interest rate used by banks.

Principal: The original amount of debt on which interest is calculated.

Rollover: This term is used for moving a retirement plan into a different one, generally when leaving a job. Usually there is a set time period in which the rollover must occur so that a penalty isn't issued.

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Kennebec Journal | Morning Sentinel | Special Supplement |

Wednesday, August 10, 2011

When staying at home is your choice…

Programs are in place to support the plan panionship and meal preparations.

Home care agencies can provide homemaker services, as well as personal care such as bathing, dressGiven the option, many aging ing, toileting assistance, mobility, adults would choose staying in their and general health maintenance. home and community versus moving into assisted living — but how Adult Day Programs: can that happen?

Adult day programs are also Questions abound. Are there commonly referred to as adult dayways to get help that allows indebreaks or adult daycares. These pendence but makes it easier to stay services are provided at a safe locain your own home? tion where some light personal care The first step is for a person to and medication administration is decide exactly what he or she needs available, as well as many schedhelp with. Do you need help with uled activities and events. These housework? Is home safety a conprograms offer several hours, or cern? Are there home maintenance even full days, of time away from needs? Do you always remember to the house during regular business take your pills? Does it take hours hours. Adult day programs are the to get ready in the morning? Is it least expensive alternative to facilisafe to be at home as long as somety care. one else is around? Do you not know where to start and what quesTelephone tions to ask?

Reassurance Services: Here is a quick breakdown of the These are telephone calls that most common options available: provide an oftentimes-recorded call at a pre-set time to make sure a perHome Care: son is safe or as a reminder to take Home care services come in a medications. These calls can be broad range of plans and are often provided through a provider or the completed by an agency or individlocal police, fire department, or ual who comes to the home to assist other town agency where available. with the tasks that are necessary in order to continue to live independMedical Alert Systems: ently. Home care services often are Also known as emergency paid for privately or through longresponse systems, these units are term care insurance, MaineCare and connected through the telephone veterans programs. lines. The recipient of services Homemaker assistance includes wears a necklace or bracelet and, if housekeeping, transportation, comBY KRISTIN OVERTON AND SUSAN GARASCIA Spectrum Generations

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immediate help is needed, presses the button. The button signals the main unit, which then contacts a call center where a person speaks to the recipient through the main unit, like a speaker phone, asking if they are okay. Most systems can have up to three family members, friends, or even 911 to respond if there is no answer, or if the answer is “no.”

Geriatric Care Management: This hired professional acts as a consultant for individuals or family members providing assessments of needed care, alternatives and options, connections to resources and hospital discharge coordination.

Contacting a care manager is a valuable starting place when first exploring what the needs and options are.

Wellness Programs: Living Well for Better Health, Matter of Balance, and other classes or workshops help people take control of their health and live more confidently in their homes by overcoming common fears such as

falling, managing chronic conditions or even exercising to maintain mobility or to regain strength.

These classes are available in many communities.

For additional information on

any of these options, please contact Spectrum Generations Consumer Information line at 800-639-1553, or Spectrum Generations Bridges Home Care Division at 800-8769212.

Wednesday, August 17, 2011

| Kennebec Journal | Morning Sentinel | Special Supplement

Overmedicating is an issue of personal health Personal health is a concern issue for seniors, more so than finances says a recent study by UnitedHealthcare. Nearly seven out of 10 senior respondents to a recent survey expressed concerns about their health and well-being, a larger percentage than those who expressed concern about other categories such as personal finance.

As seniors continue to live longer, they want to be able to enjoy the life they are living.

As a result, more attention is being paid to taking care of oneself so that the senior years can be enjoyed. One of the key problems they can be mindful of is prescription abuse.

According to data compiled

by PRIME Institute for Families USA, in 2010 the average senior was given 38.5 prescriptions. The average overall prescription number for U.S. seniors grew to almost 1.6 billion in 2010. There is cause for concern that seniors are highly overmedicated, and that drug interactions could be a leading cause of unnecessary death or side effects.

Individuals who want to stay healthy can also take personal responsibility for prescription medications. Lifestyle choices should include learning about the medications talked about by doctors and discussing other options if medication seems counterintuitive at this time.

Keep in mind that the average physician visit is 10 minutes long, making it difficult for many doctors to keep abreast of all of their patients’ conditions.

It is important for patients to do their own safeguarding as well.

To reduce reliance on many prescription medications, seniors may be able to simply adjust certain choices in diet and exercise. For example, cutting down on fatty foods may help reduce cholesterol. Reduction in sodium intake can lower blood pressure.

PRIME TIMES

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PRIME TIMES

Kennebec Journal | Morning Sentinel | Special Supplement |

Wednesday, August 17, 2011

An open letter to the People of central Maine from the new chief executive officer of Spectrum Generations Dear Friend, Have you heard about the problem of hunger among older adults in our state? Maine is the ninh most “food insecure” state in the U.S., and the MOST “food insecure” state in all of New England.

Spectrum Generations — the nonprofit organization that provides Meals On Wheels in six counties of central Maine — is committed to ending senior hunger by 2020. And you can help.

For 40 years, Spectrum Generations has solved problems for older and disabled adults in Kennebec, Knox, Lincoln, Sagadahoc, Somerset and Waldo counties, plus the towns of Brunswick and Harpswell in Cumberland County.

You may know us through our community centers in Kennebec County — the Muskie Center in Waterville and the Cohen Center in Hallowell.

If you’re a caregiver for someone living with disabilities or dementia, you may know us through SAVVY Caregiver training or assistance and support groups. If you’ve ever needed explanations or referrals on Medicare, prescription drug coverage or reverse mortgage counseling, you know our excellent team of consumer information specialists. Or perhaps you know us for our Adult DayBreak, wellness or injury prevention programs.

But if you’re like most Mainers, you know Spectrum Generations best for Meals On Wheels. You may know that we prepare, package and deliver a quarter of a million meals to homebound, isolated and rural seniors in some 140 towns in a 6,600-square-mile region that runs from the state line to the coastline.

Starting this fall, you’ll know us for a bold, new initiative called We Sustain Maine.

Thanks to a “Vision Grant” of $50,000 from the Wal-Mart Foundation/Meals On Wheels Association of America and a lead gift from philanthropist Elsie Viles of Augusta, Spectrum Generations will use Maine-grown fruits, vegetables, dairy, beef and poultry in all of our Meals On Wheels.

Everybody wins. Maine seniors have healthier meals, Maine farmers have a large and reliable customer and Maine’s economy is strengthened because local food dollars are spent on local agriculture in local communities.

You may know Spectrum Generations for the many essential programs, centers and services we provide to older and disabled adults across Central Maine, but at the heart of our mission is feeding seniors in need. You’re invited to be a part of We Sustain Maine as a donor or as a volunteer.

Every donation helps. Every dollar counts. Because every hungry senior matters.

Sincerely, Gerard L. Queally, President & Chief Executive Officer Spectrum Generations (the Central Maine Area Agency on Aging)

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Wednesday, August 17, 2011

| Kennebec Journal | Morning Sentinel | Special Supplement

PRIME TIMES

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Travel tips for the over-50 jet set For many people, the allure of travel never wears off. Be it a young person’s first trip to a foreign land or an older couple’s return to the place they spent their honeymoon, recreational travel remains a favorite hobby of people of all ages.

Though travel appeals to people of all ages, it differs for people of all ages as well. The carefree “pack a bag and go” attitude shared by many a young traveler is not prudent for older travelers, who must take several safety precautions when traveling to ensure the trip will be safe as well as enjoyable.

The American Geriatric Society’s Foundation for Health in Aging offers the following travel tips to older adults who still love the adventure of travel.

• Talk to your doctor in advance. If you have already made travel plans, consult your physician, who may suggest a full checkup, before your trip begins.

Explain any travel plans, particularly which cities or countries you plan to visit and what your travel itinerary is. Different locales call for different precautionary measures, and your doctor can discuss with you specific measures to take depending on where you will be going. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention lists various required and recommended vaccines based on certain travel destinations. For more information, visit www.cdc.gov/travel.

When speaking with your doctor, it’s also best to ask when to take medications. While this is less of a concern for travelers who are staying within their own time zones, it’s important for travelers changing time zones to learn if they should stick to their hometime-zone schedule or adapt it to the time zone they’ll be visiting.

Even travelers who are staying within their time zone should ask their physician if it’s best to take certain medications before or after a flight.

ication, this can be especially troubling if their medications are packed in bags that were checked.

When traveling, make sure all medications are in your carry-on bag to avoid losing medication while away from home.

• Make a list. Before leaving home, make a list with your physician’s help and carry it with you at all times. This list should include: - any existing medical conditions - current treatment for those medical conditions, including the names of any medications you are on, the doses and how these medications are administered - the amount of the drug you need to take on the trip (this will be important should any medications be lost or damaged while traveling) • Take steps to avoid deep-vein thrombosis. Deep-vein thrombosis, or DVT, occurs when blood clots form in the veins. This typically takes place in the legs because of a lack of blood flow. Older adults are at risk of DVT when traveling because traveling often requires sitting in once place, such as on an airplane or train, for long periods of time. Research has indicated that compression stockings are effective at preventing DVT. Older travelers might want to consider such stockings, particularly if their travels require a long flight, drive or train ride.

http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations /list.aspx travelers can use an interactive map and select their travel destination. Travelers can then learn if there are any travel notices in effect for that country or region. In addition, clicking on a given country also directs users to safety and security guidelines and provides any information on vaccinations that might be necessary to enter the country they plan to visit.

The site also offers travel and health tips as well as a list of diseases common to a particular region. A valuable tool for those who travel frequently for business or even those who are simply traveling for vacation, the site is free of charge and only requires an Internet connection to access.

When traveling, men and women over the age of 50 should take several precautionary measures to ensure their trip is a safe one.

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We offer our services in order to honor a life that has been lived and to comfort those who grieve.

• Don’t transfer pills to new containers. Veteran travelers know getting through customs is no joy ride. It’s even less enjoyable for men and women who must take prescription medications with them. To make your trip through customs as stress-free as possible, keep all medications in their original containers.

To learn more about traveling safely, visit the American Geriatrics Society at www.americangeriatrics.org.

We are serving Greater Central Maine, a proud member of our community, locally owned and operated.

Safety Tip for Travelers

Travelers about to embark on an overseas adventure can take advan• Pack all necessary medicatage of a valuable tool offered by tions in your carry-on bag. Most the Centers for Disease Control and travelers have their own horror sto- Prevention to ensure their trip is ries about losing checked baggage. both enjoyable and safe. When visFor older men and women on med- iting

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PRIME TIMES

Kennebec Journal | Morning Sentinel | Special Supplement |

Wednesday, August 17, 2011