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HOW TO CHOOSE A Guide to Choosing Key Products & Services
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How to Choose Assisted Living
Margaret Wiebke tends to the raised flower beds on the Windhaven Assisted Living patio at Western Home Communities.
Choosing an assisted living community for someone you love may be difficult, but it is actually a gift. Certainly there’s a lot riding on the decision, most notably someone’s health and happiness. The decision impacts not just the older adult who needs care, but the entire family. Weighing the pros and cons may cause you to second guess yourself choice that you’ll agonize over, you’ll second guess, and you’ll fear but the reality is, making that decision is a gift. If you are making that decision for yourself, it’s a gift to your family: a gift of peace of mind, of relief from guilt, of enjoying you again as parent, friend, or spouse instead of as a “patient.” If you are making that decision for a parent or other relative, a neighbor or friend, it’s a gift to them that ensures their future wellbeing. It’s a gift of safety, security, friendship and love. There is a checklist of amenities to ask about when considering different assisted living communities; those are important to learn about, but nothing on that list will be more important than how the employees make you feel when you are there. Are you greeted at the door? Is it easy to find an employee to ask questions? How do the employees interact with the residents you meet in
the hall or dining room? Do residents look happy and engaged? Next, beautiful brochures will highlight the positives, but will they admit to any negatives? Ask for referrals from friends, coworkers or neighbors who have had real-world experience with different assisted living communities in your area. Ask them what they love. Even more importantly, ask what needs improvement. There’s always room for improvement. Who’s the “Best of the Best” in your area? Who has a reputation for giving great care? Online reviews can be a great place to start if you are new to a community and don’t have a network to lean on. Look for reviews on Google and Facebook. It’s important to compare apples to apples. The price might initially appear similar from one community to another, but what’s included for the price may be significantly different. Is housekeeping, laundry, medication, or meal service included? Transparency with costs for additional care needs is a must. Find out what will happen if a loved one needs more care than is needed today. The cost of care can add up quickly when additional services are tacked on and you need to know the true costs up front. Think next steps. Would the need for more care require a move? Does the
assisted living community offer memory care, nursing care or hospice care? Or would you need to seek out another organization at that time? What is the criteria they look for to signal a new care level is needed? Will you be part of the decision making when the time comes to look for a higher level of care? The reality is there is no “right” or “wrong” decision and what makes a community the best choice for one family might not be the right fit for the next family. Making the choice to get the help someone needs is the most critical part about making an assisted living decision. Don’t delay because it feels uncomfortable. Once the work is done and a resident is settled in, many people say, “Why didn’t I do this sooner?”
Top Ten Questions to Ask 1. What is included in the base price? 2. Do you have transportation? Where to? Is there an additional cost? 3. Are you state certified? 4. Can I talk to a family member of a current resident? 5. When are meals served? Are there choices on the menu? 6. What type of care exceeds your capabilities? 7. What happens if the money runs out? 8. How many nurses do you have on staff? Is a nurse in the building overnight or just on call? 9. How do you keep residents active? What do current residents enjoy most?
Kenny Hansen of Stanard Family Assisted Living at Western Home Communities enjoys fishing on a summer day.
10. What role do friends and family play after moving day? Article contributed by Western Home Communities
Cheers! From left, Homer Leymaster, Dick Casey and Clive Cook celebrate a party on the patio at Windhaven. A threehole putting green is behind them.
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The choice is easyWestern Home Communities is the Cedar Valley’s Best of the Best for assisted living year after year. With 100+ years of expertise, Western Home Communities is the trusted community for older adults. With two great options, Windhaven Assisted Living on south campus or Stanard Family Assisted Living on downtown campus, you’ll find the lifestyle that’s just right for you.
Call Spencer or Casey today to schedule your tour!
(319) 859-9363
WesternHomeCommunities.org/assisted-living
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How to Choose an Auto Body Shop
Anderson Collision will be there to get you back on the road when damage has left you stranded. Our highly trained professionals provide a number of repair services designed to get you back on track. We are here to repair your vehicle from dents and scrapes to fender-
benders and more intense damage resulting from an accident. We are proud to be an I-CAR gold-certified shop with Platinum individual technicians. Our technicians are trained by I-CAR and use the recommended tools and equipment to get the job done
right! From minor dent repair to full-scale auto body repair, we are ready to diagnose, calibrate, and repair your car, truck, or SUV to manufacturer’s standards. We work on all makes and models, foreign and domestic. We offer a limited lifetime warranty on all of our workmanship. This written warranty is valid for as long as you own your vehicle! Need an estimate? Use our online scheduling tool and the experts at Anderson Collision will be happy to help you throughout the repair process. Article contributed by Anderson Collision
We offer a full line of
auto body and collision repair services to match your needs and budget! We are proud to Work on all makes and models. • • • • •
Paint Matching Windshield Repair Hail Damage Repair Paintless Dent Repair Expert Collision Repair
• • • • •
Lifetime Limited Warranty Certified Aluminum Repair Quality Auto Repair Services Online Estimates and Appointments Air Conditioning Diagnostics and Repair
REQUEST AN ESTIMATE oR BooK AN APPoINTMENT ToDAY!
HOURS: Monday – Friday 8:00 – 5:00, Sat. – By Appointment, Sun. Closed 516 Washington St., Cedar Falls, IA 50613
319-277-5661
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Celebrate your
BIRTHDAY In The Courier
Celebrations 319-291-1536
celebrations@wcfcourier.com
wcfcourier.com/celebrations
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How to Choose Dementia Care
Music therapist Megan Grimm, MT-BC, serenades residents of Thalman Square Memory Support Assisted Living at Western Home Communities. The secure outdoor courtyard is a perfect place for parties.
Selecting care for someone with memory loss or dementia behaviors may seem like an overwhelming process. Most of us have done months, if not years, of research before we make life-changing decisions. We dream from the time we are children about our profession, where we want to live, the kind of car we want to drive, but we don’t even think about memory care until someone needs it. It can take time to feel comfortable with any big decision, but often time is not on our side. The first thing to consider is the level of care that is needed. Memory care most commonly refers to a specialized area of assisted living, a separate secure CCDI (chronic confusion or a dementing illness) area of a nursing home, a specialized CCDI nursing home, or care provided as part of a nursing home’s overall operation. Indications that assisted living is a good place to start
would be that the person can still eat independently or with minor accommodations like finger foods, can use the toilet appropriately with cueing, and can ambulate or help support themselves when transferring (from bed to wheelchair, for example.) If a specialized diet is required or it takes more than one person to assist with walking or transferring to the toilet, you may want to begin your search at the nursing home level of care. Once you know where to begin your search, it’s important to think about what future care needs might be. If you are looking at assisted living, how long will the community be able to meet your loved one’s needs? If more care may be needed in the near future, you may want to skip going through two transitions and choose the higher level of care first. Transitions are hard for everyone and especially difficult for people living with dementia.
Now think about what is important in caring for someone with dementia: routine, consistency, familiarity. Does the community you are considering ask about a typical day for your loved one? Do they ask about a personal history so they know what a typical routine is like? You should ask about how you can make the room or apartment look familiar to your loved one. Are you able to bring in your own décor, photos, furniture? Will they launder the bedding you provide? What is staff turnover like? Do they have a good core of consistent employees who get to know the residents? Especially when vocabulary loss starts to become an issue, knowing someone well enough to anticipate what they want or need becomes increasingly important. You can learn a lot about a community simply by using your five senses. What do you see when you tour? Are residents sitting around idly? Does it appear clean and well kept? What do you smell? Is it fresh and pleasing? What do you hear? Is
Mardi Hermann shows off a door display she made for her Thalman Square apartment.
Jean Hager and Janet Lynch enjoy container gardening for the Thalman Square courtyard.
there a constant ringing of alarms and monitors or is it a serene atmosphere that will calm your loved one? Ask if you can join in a meal and taste the food for yourself. Is it appealing? Touch the linens; are they comfortable and soft? Do employees use touch to guide residents by holding their arm? Do they express affection appropriately? Ask about dementia-specific training for employees and how often it is provided. Most CCDI communities and memory care- specific assisted living will require additional training above and beyond a standard nursing home and assisted living. The ability to accept someone in the moment and understand how to reapproach or redirect can make the difference between a smooth transition or a tumultuous one. Take time to get to know the staff. Ask them how long they have been there. Ask them what they like most about the community or if there’s anything they would change. Article contributed by Western Home Communities
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Memory Care for every stage of your journey
Western Home Communities serves those living with dementia at any stage, whether newly diagnosed or requiring advanced care. Call to find out what’s best for your situation and how we can help.
atHome with Western Home Krista Dryer
319-277-7779
Thalman Square Spencer Steffy
319-859-9363
The Cottages/Deery Suites/ Martin Suites Karla Foust or Bryan Allen 319-277-2141
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How to Choose Facility Design Team While the process of finding the right design team for your next facility project may sound like an overwhelming task, it can be a fairly straightforward process. Through understanding your vision, values, and expectations, the process to find a complementing and skilled team of architects, engineers, and every discipline in between can be a fun and easy process—turning your vision into reality. Consider your needs Every facility project, whether it is a renovation, remodel, or new construction, requires a different set of services. From architects and engineers to project managers, a key consideration is to have an idea of what type of services and expertise will be needed. Choosing a design firm that has many of the services in-house can save money, time, and efficiency for the overall life of the project. A broad range of in-house services can also play an imperative role if there are unforeseen issues that rise to the surface during design or construction. Consider your project needs and choose a design team that has a deep bench of
specialized services to ensure you can cover all your bases.
These tools offer a variety of value from project efficiency to stakeholder engagement.
Experience and expertise An easy place to begin your research is finding local firms that have similar experience on projects that align with your facility needs. As you are researching, relevant project experience can have a variety of meanings that applies to your project. Are there projects in the same industry showing that the firm understands the wants and needs of the endusers of the facility? Is there a project that has a similar scope of work displaying that the firm has done this type of project before? Can you identify key team members that display experience, professionalism, and a passion for design? Is the firm and its employees involved in the community to further understand local wants and needs? Looking beyond services, another identifier for a dedicated and passionate design team is the additional value-added tools at their disposal. Examples might include geographic information system mapping (GIS), drone imagery, visualization, 3D scanning, and more.
Communication style and strategies Perhaps one of the most crucial traits when uncovering the right fit for your design team is not only how they communicate in a professional setting when discussing schedules, project progress, but also their responsiveness outside of scheduled meetings. As early as the interview process, does the design team bring up the importance of communication? Do they ask about your preferred communication style? Facility project timelines can range from two weeks to over two years, so having a team that will answer the phone, provide regular updates, and be easy to reach to discuss project details at any time is critical. If your project involves multiple stakeholder groups, another key consideration is the effort given to a comprehensive communication plan. From newsletters and social media posts to project websites and videos, design teams should give thoughtful consideration to how they will keep your stakeholders informed
Communication Sty
E xperie
nce and
Quality design teams will conduct quality work. At ISG, our experienced designers will listen with empathy to understand your vision and goals and guide you through each step of your project. Your project deserves a team with vested interest and passion for design and the community to ensure project success from start to finish. Article contributed by ISG
le and Strategies
E xper ti
se
Facility Design with Passion + Purpose Consider Your Needs
Architecture + Engineering + Environmental + Planning
|
ISGInc.com
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How to Choose Farm Insurance Many farmers are well schooled in their understanding of planting schedules and farm equipment, but aren’t experts on the complicated workings of insurance coverage. Farms and ranches occupy a specific niche in terms of insurance coverage. In addition to ensuring your home and property are protected, farm insurance also includes coverage for machinery and livestock. A sound insurance policy can make the difference in whether their business lives or dies in the event of an accident or other catastrophe. When you are in the market for farm insurance, here are some things you need to keep in mind. Increased liability With the farming industry changing at a rapid pace, you may have more exposure to the prospects of lawsuits and damages.
Contact with the general public, for instance, brings risk. Roadside produce stands, agri-tourism events and even "pick-it-yourself" fields bring a potential for liability if someone is injured or harmed on your property. You might also be held liable if someone gets sick from eating your crops. Every farm is different, with various sizes and types of operations. You might need different coverage from other farms. Have a meeting with your insurance agent to talk about your changing needs when it comes to liability coverage. The agent should develop a customized solution specifically for your needs. Know your policy Farm policies are very different from other insurance products. It is important to understand your
TOMORROW STARTS EARLIER FOR FARMERS Thank you for all of your hard work. We’re proud to provide you with the insurance you need, and we're grateful that you provide us with the food we put on our tables. Trust in Tomorrow.®
coverage. When you meet with your insurance agent, ask the following questions: — If my house is on the farm, does farm insurance cover it for damage? — What types of damage to my farm equipment does the insurance policy cover? — Does the policy include all the barns and buildings on the farm? — How are my livestock covered? Policies are different. Some may cover livestock, buildings and equipment, while others will provide coverage from disasters, floods and other harm. Find an insurance agent who is specially trained to look for risks that exist on farms. You should identify these things and insure against them before they happen. It is better to be prepared rather than feel regret.
Firm strength Make sure you are dealing with an insurance company that has a strong balance sheet and good reputation. Insurance companies receive ratings based on their finances. A good agent will discuss these ratings with you. It is equally important to understand the company's reputation for dealing with claims. Good insurance companies handle farm claims quickly, fairly and professionally. It is always a smart idea to ask other farmers in your area about insurance companies. They may even have some recommendations for you. Knowing how to protect your farm, equipment and livestock, and getting the right coverage will protect you as well as give you peace of mind. Article contributed by Greenshoot Media
FIRST MAXFIELD MUTUAL
SINCE 1860
www.firstmaxfield.com wwwo.firstmaxfield.com “Trust in Tomorrow.” and “A Grinnell Mutual Member” are registered trademarks of Grinnell Mutual Reinsurance Company. © Grinnell Mutual Reinsurance Company, 2019.
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How to Choose Hospice Care Get the knowledge, respect and compassionate care you deserve with Cedar Valley Hospice
Our new Cedar Valley Hospice Support Center is located at 900 Tower Park Dr. in Waterloo and is the hub for the Northeast Iowa communities we serve. Above right: Inside, feature walls like this one in the clinical area, create an energizing atmosphere for staff.
At Cedar Valley Hospice, we understand that opting to receive hospice services for yourself or a loved one can be difficult. So many emotions can come along with the decision, which is why our mission is so important: To enrich lives with knowledge, respect and compassionate care.
said former patient Gary Uhland. “They really care about me as a person. They’ve helped me and also provided support for my wife. By taking the pressure off of her, it made me less stressed. I’d be hard-pressed to find something that they could do any better than they already do.”
Having a mission is one thing, living it is another. At Cedar Valley Hospice, our leaders make sure to create a culture within our organization so employees feel valued. We know that when people feel cared for and respected, they do their work with a stronger motivation, a deeper sense of meaning and provide a greater level of care.
We have over 120 employees and 350 volunteers who serve 15 counties in Northeast Iowa. For 42 years, our leading standards of care have been the foundation in which we have lived by daily.
“It’s the people that make this organization,”
Call Cedar Valley Hospice at 800.626.2360 to see how our team can help your family, friends and neighbors continue Making Each Moment Matter.
Get the care & support your family needs so you can focus on
Grief support for adults & youth
Hospice care at a home or a facility
(available to the entire community at no cost)
Palliative care
(for those with a serious illness who aren’t ready for hospice
Case management for persons living with HIV
It’s never too soon to call and seek our expert care and support! 319.272.2002 | cvhospice.org | 800.626.2360
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AMPLIfY YOuR BRAND The right mix of digital marketing products can help turn your business into a brand.
TARGETED DISPLAY SEARCH MARKETING SOCIAL MEDIA WEB DESIGN & DEVELOPMENT EMAIL MARKETING CREATIVE & STRATEGY
adiowa.com
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How to Choose a Land Surveyor If you are a seller or potential purchaser of a home or property; a title attorney; loan officer; real estate agent; or real estate attorney, you rely on the expertise of a Professional Surveyor who has established, or will at some point establish or identify, the location of property boundary markers, and whether there are potential issues, such as whether, and to what extent, the property lies near or within a designated flood zone. Simply stated, the Professional Surveyor provides for purchaser’s peaceful occupation of the land.
Ask for references from family and friends. Check with local and state Professional Land Surveyors organizations; many of them have a public list of their members. Ask at the office of your local municipality. Many have lists of Professional Land Surveyors that work in their area.
When you call a Land Surveyor, it will expedite the process to have information on your property ready, including any previous surveys, tax bill information, owner’s name, and the address of the property.
The Land Surveyor needs to know the purpose for the survey before any work is begun. If you want special features shown on the final map, you should discuss this with the Land Surveyor.
What should I expect from my Surveyor? Your Land Surveyor and crew should treat you and your neighbors with respect. Your Land Surveyor should be licensed in the state of your project site.
You should receive a map showing the results of the If you are in a dispute work that was performed. with a neighbor over the location of the All the boundaries of your property line, the property should be clearly Land Surveyor will marked. be aware that they may need to take a little time to talk with a neighbor to explain what is being done as part of the survey. “Right of entry” laws may require that the Surveyor send letters to neighbors and law enforcement agencies ahead of time. Content used with permission from the National Society of Land Surveyors for Clapsaddle-Garber Associates, Inc. (CGA). View a list of typical property survey steps at www. cgaconsultants.com.
BOUNDARY | RETRACEMENT | PROPERTY
LAND SURVEY
Matt Garber, PE, PLS
Lee Gallentine, PE, PLS
Travis Stewart, Marc Hoodjer, PLS PLS
CGA | Clapsaddle-Garber Associates, Inc. 5106 Nordic Drive, Cedar Falls www. cgaconsultants.com
8
Jeremy Harris, Scott Steinfadt, PLS PLS
Licensed Professional Surveyors
Joe Snethen, Zeb Stanbrough, PE, PLS PLS
Cedar Valley’s Local Professional Land Surveyors & Engineers 319-266-0258
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How to Choose a LASIK Surgeon Should I get LASIK laser eye surgery? This may be a question you have been asking yourself for years. Especially after what feels like a lifetime of dealing with glasses or contacts. If you’re one of the 140 million Americans who have a refractive disorder such as nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia) or astigmatism, LASIK laser eye surgery may offer you the freedom from glasses and contacts you have been looking for. Wolfe Eye Clinic is here to help and our LASIK specialty teams are here to walk you through the process step-bystep. If you’re wondering, “Where do I start?” The first step is choosing a LASIK provider that you feel confident in and comfortable with. How do I choose a LASIK surgeon? 1. Referrals—Ask your regular eye doctor for a referral to an ophthalmologist they recommend who can perform LASIK eye surgery. If you have family members or friends who have had the procedure, talk to them. In addition, you can find credible LASIK resources by reviewing the listings on professional directories such as the American Academy of Ophthalmology
and the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery. 2. Reputation, experience and education—Find an eye clinic and surgeon who is known for performing successful refractive eye surgeries with a 5% or lower enhancement rate and has experienced, highly trained surgeons on staff. Reputation matters— A clinic with an outstanding reputation is the one you want. Online reviews for clinics may not be as personal of a referral source, but they certainly are another helpful source in your search. Look for fellowship-trained and board-certified surgeons. This means surgeons perform specialized training in addition to the standard required years of schooling needed to practice as a doctor of ophthalmology. It is also important that your surgeon be based in Iowa. Many large-chain LASIK surgeons travel between states. Choosing a local provider helps ensure you can receive post-operative care when you need it from your surgeon. 3. Technology—Advances are always being made in technology, and LASIK is no exception. Make sure your surgeon is
experienced in using the latest techniques and equipment, such as blade-free, laser created flap technology which offers greater control in flap creation for a more precise procedure. For example, the Wavelight EX500 Excimer Laser available at Wolfe Eye Clinic offers the widest treatment approval range ever granted to a laser as well as quicker treatment time reducing the risk of dry eye. Not all providers have or use this technology. 4. Multi-level care—Schedule an initial consultation to meet your surgeon and his or her team and determine if you are a good candidate for LASIK laser eye surgery. It’s important to feel comfortable and confident in your choice prior to scheduling surgery. Your surgeon should be willing to personally educate you about the LASIK procedure and answer any questions you have, including possible complications and post-operative care. The staff at the eye clinic should be friendly, accessible and helpful. Many ophthalmologists will work with your regular eye doctor for follow-up appointments if you prefer and these are most times covered in the cost of the
procedure. Be sure to ask those questions if you’d prefer to have follow-ups with your eye doctor, which may be closer to home. 5. Cost— The cost of eyeglasses and contact lenses can easily add up. LASIK laser eye surgery may offer the ability to invest in your vision. Prices that sound too good to be true, probably are. Make sure to investigate how much the procedure will cost and if there are any additional charges for advanced technology, enhancements, revisions, or post-operative care. LASIK is not covered by insurance so make sure to inquire about health savings account, financing and billing options. Wolfe Eye Clinic LASIK specialists have performed more LASIK in the state of Iowa than any other provider. If you’re interested in finding out if you’re a candidate for LASIK laser eye surgery, give us a call at (833) 474-5855. Your personal LASIK coordinator will help answer your questions and get you set up for a free, no pressure consultation with one of our experienced LASIK specialists. Article contributed by Wolfe Eye Clinic
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How to Choose: Farmland Auctions vs. Listings
Should I Sell My Land Through Public Auction Or Traditional Listing? Once the decision is made to sell your farmland, the next choice that needs to be made is whether to list the farm or take it to auction. Although this is a common question I receive as a land
professional with Peoples Company, there is not necessarily a “one size fits all” answer however there are cases where the direction we should head is clearer. If the farm has been in the same family or ownership structure for a long period of time (20+ years) and is
considered high quality for the area, the auction sales method is typically the right choice. This allows the Seller to ensure that maximum value is realized for the property by exposing it to the full market. Auction sales are also often the best option for ownership groups or families with differing opinions. Auctions allow for a quick sale with a set sale date and gives everyone an equal chance at ownership while letting the market determine the price. A traditional listing is more suited for farmland that has a lower percentage of tillable acres, less desirable soil types, or has been recently sold or marketed. Recreational farms are also a good fit for a traditional listing. Individuals or groups who seek to only sell if a certain value is realized will also want to look at traditional listings. Additionally, the listing method also allows the Seller to choose if they would like to sell publicly or privately through an “off-market” listing and allows
them to negotiate terms of the sale such as a potential lease-back, a reserved Buyer, or a staggered closing. Although these are the general guidelines to choosing how to sell land, each property and situation is unique. Reaching out to a land professional such as myself early in the process if you are thinking about selling is the best way to ensure you have a well thought out sales plan. No sale process will reach maximum value without the right marketing plan or process in place. As we head into the busy fall sales season, we are seeing land values at an all-time high in many areas and potential government policy revisions are changing the way many look at farmland investment. For more information on farmland ownership visit www. PeoplesCompany.com/blog. Article contributed by Peoples Company
Coming soon!
60 ACRES IN BU CHANAN COUNT Y 240 ACRES IN F AYET TE COUNT Y
TRAVIS SMOCK 319.361.8089, Travis@PeoplesCompany.com 2300 Swan Lake Blvd, Ste 300, Independence, IA 50644 PEOPLESCOMPANY.COM
BROKERAGE & AUCTIONS LAND MANAGEMENT AGRICULTURAL APPRAISAL LAND INVESTMENT
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08.29.21 – 11 am-3 pm Waterloo Convention Center at Sullivan Plaza
weddings
Event
Everything you need to plan your wedding • Wedding Gowns & Tuxes • Various Premier Vendors
• Sports Corner • Raffles & Drawings
FREE Admission
Event Sponsors:
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How to Choose a Nursing Home Facility professional and trained staffing on site to assist your loved around the clock. Placing someone in a care facility is never an easy decision, the staff is there to make sure the transition is smooth. “We start creating an individualized care plan for each of our residents when they admit,” says Kristen Lyons, Director of Nursing at NorthCrest Specialty Care. “Providing quality, individualized care is a top priority for our team.” There are several factors you will want to consider. Here are some helpful tips as you are making this choice.
Consider the unique, individual needs of your loved one
There’s no more important step than assisting a loved one who needs ongoing care in finding a quality nursing home. Some choose nursing homes to recover after a hospital stay, while others require more long term care. A nursing home provides quality care in a comfortable living environment for your loved ones. The aim is to care for the whole person and meet a variety of needs including medical oversight, nutrition, social activities, spiritual care, and more. You can rest assure there is
Ask you loved one what is most important to them regarding their new home, and consider their clinical needs. Once you have assessed what is most important, attempt to find a facility that checks those boxes. “Prior to a new resident moving in and during the move in process, we ask a lot of questions about preferences,” says Pam Tallman, Administrator at LaPorte Specialty Care. “We want to focus on the day to day quality of life and make their surroundings feel like home.”
Visit the facility
A tour is an opportunity for you to become familiar with the environment and ask questions specific to your loved one. You can also include your loved one on the tour to
get their perspective. This facility may become home. Feeling welcomed are cues that this could be a positive living experience. Your visit will also provide clues about the general atmosphere and day to day life. Focus on cleanliness, staffing levels, and engaging activities with residents. Ask to see multiple areas including the potential room, the dining room, common areas, courtyard, and therapy gym. You may ask to see a menu and activities calendar to become familiar with the variety offered to residents. Regular activities such as music and crafts or an outdoor area for enjoying the sunshine will enhance quality of life. “Our residents enjoy time in the courtyard when the weather is nice,” says Crystal Ellefson, Administrator at Ravenwood Specialty Care. “I will often join a group with our activities director just to get extra time getting to know our residents. It’s my favorite part of my job.” If you are not able to visit the facility, be sure to ask if there is a virtual tour option. “We have beautiful videos of our buildings to show families who are out of town,” says Phyllis Cuvelier, Community Representative with Care Initiatives. “We are also able to FaceTime with families to show them the room the incoming resident will admit to or introduce them to caregivers.”
Financial considerations
The cost of short stays is often covered by Medicare or your loved one’s insurance plan. However, the cost of
long term care is not covered by these plans. You will need to discuss your loved one’s financial picture with them directly in order to know how you can help them with this step. You will want to ask the facility about their fees. They should be transparent with this information. Is there an entry fee? If your loved one’s assets are limited, does the facility accept Medicaid? Is there someone there to assist you with the application process? “We are so blessed to work for a non-profit organization to be able to meet the needs of people in a variety of financial situations,” says Kristie Kremer, Administrator at Pinnacle Specialty Care. “By removing high entry fees and accepting multiple types of payment, we are able to remove financial barriers to get people the quality care they deserve.
Talk with others
You might have a chance to talk with a relative of a patient who is currently living in the nursing home. Don't be afraid of asking them for honest opinions about the facility. These relatives are usually eager to share their experiences with you. Hearing their impressions will help ease your own anxieties about this important decision. For more information on how to choose a nursing home, please visit our website at careinitiatives.org. Article contributed by Care Initiatives
Skilled Nursing • Long Term Care • Respite • Hospice Four Locations to Serve You
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How to Choose a Realtor Choosing a real estate agent is a lot like choosing an employee. You’ll want to know about their professional background, successes and how they can best represent your interests. To do away with any confusion, first consider this: A real estate agent may or may not be a Realtor, but every Realtor is required to be a licensed real estate agent. A Realtor is simply a real estate agent who is a member of the National Association of Realtors (NAR). This allows him or her to attend industry meetings and access software and educational tools. Realtors adhere to a strict code of ethics and have solid knowledge of the real estate business. Finding a reliable, reputable real estate agent is essential when you are considering buying or selling a home. These professionals can guide you through complicated negotiations and contracts to secure you the best deal you can get. They’ll also be able to inform you of the precise steps you need to take just before buying or selling.
It goes without saying that you shouldn’t make any property decision under the advisement of an agent you don’t trust. So, do your homework and pick an agent you can have faith will get the job done right. Here’s some guidance in helping you choose the best agent for your situation. Where to start looking Recommendations are one of the best ways to find a qualified real estate agent or Realtor. Ask people in your social network for referrals. Sometimes agents are good at helping clients purchase homes, but not as skilled at selling them. Keep that in mind when searching for the right professional. You might also contact local brokers or search the NAR directory online. Always work with credible, responsible agents. Otherwise you are wasting your time. Comfort level At the initial consultation with a prospective real estate professional, focus on your comfort level while interacting
with them. Do you get the feeling they are genuinely concerned about your needs? Or are they focused on their commission? Do they know the current housing market? Can they negotiate a contract? It is important that you feel comfortable with the agent. You must trust that this person can behave ethically and help you secure a good deal. Communication and planning Your agent should be an effective communicator. If you are selling your home, your agent should develop an effective marketing plan, explain it to you and respond to any questions or concerns you have. The marketing plan will probably involve placing advertisements and conducting open houses to invite the public for home viewings. If you are purchasing a home, the agent should listen to your guidelines and price ranges. Above all, your real estate agent needs to provide updates on progress. Do not
work with someone who does not return phone calls or emails. More resources To get a better idea about the process of buying and selling a home, conduct some research on your own. Real estate magazines contain good information and can be a great way to start your research. There are also a lot of good resources on the internet, such as www.Realtor.com, which is associated with NAR and which contains free, useful information. You may find housing statistics, market forecasts and tips, but nothing beats the power of networking. You need to find people with similar interests who will help you in your endeavor. Upon successfully buying or selling your home, keep your real estate agent's contact information on hand. You may want to refer other people to him or her. You may also need their services again someday. Article contributed by Greenshoot Media
Experience is Key.
CHOOSE WAPSIE REALTY
Real Estate is my career & I love it! After 20 years in banking and moving around Iowa it is very humbling and extremely gratifying to be able to help families and individuals realize their real estate dreams and goals. I began this journey in 2012. Now that we have settled in my home town of Independence, I have focused my business on assisting families in the Cedar Valley. I have been in a buyer’s situation and a seller’s position. On a personal level I have had positive and negative experiences with buying and selling homes. I know what both the buyer and the seller expect. I am both a listing/sellers and buyers agent. My business is based on referrals and introductions vs. just traditional marketing. This allows me to stay focused on my clients and not have to wonder where the next lead will come from. My intent is to create a real estate experience that leaves my clients outrageously happy with the end result – regardless of whether they are buying their first home or selling their last home. By doing this, my clients happily introduce me to their family, friends, and neighbors because they know I will give those they care about best possible service and care. Your real estate market is ever changing – let me help guide you through the emotional and complex process.
Heather Federspiel - Broker (319) 327-4992 heather@wapsierealty.com
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How to Choose a Senior Living Community expenses rolled into one payment. Ask about outdoor spaces, hobby areas, dining options, and parking (underground preferred). At the more progressive retirement communities, restaurants, pubs, bistros, fitness areas, spa/pool, salon, and libraries are all just down the hall!
Senior living should be full of fun and friendship!
So Many Retirement Options, How Do I Choose? Today’s senior living communities aren’t your parents’ retirement homes. This article will help you explore and differentiate all your options. As you research each of the following, you will also be refining the exact services, care, activities, and lifestyle you want. Do you prefer a view, floor level, or sun exposure? Check for elevators, parking options, and storage. When you match them with your budget, I’m confident one of the following will be just right.
Apartment Rentals Let’s start with senior living apartments. Senior living apartments can offer activities, services and care on a scale of ‘NONE’ to ‘FULL SERVICE.’ Some places are just a standard rental situation while those on the other end of the spectrum provide meals, services, activities, and care that rivals some of the larger retirement communities around. Popular aspects of senior living rental communities are that there is no upfront entrance fee. In-home care givers and/or nursing services can be available for an extra fee. Some even
Photo Courtesy of Friendship Village
allow your family members to provide care, which can be a budget-friendly option. At home or travelling care services allow you to ‘age in place’ more easily. Couples can also stay together when one needs more care than the other. Maintenance Free, 55+ Communities Imagine having your own spacious apartment or custom home, but not the worry of maintaining a home or yard! Similar to a vacation-lifestyle, this is a great option for active seniors who want to be free to travel, socialize, and have many of their monthly
Continuum of Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs) This category is the more traditional ‘retirement community.’ This option means that all levels of care (from independent living, to assisted living, to skilled nursing care and even memory care) can be found on the same campus. A sense of community is a hallmark of these organizations. If you want to ‘join in’ where you live, these are a great option. The people who move in to these communities often become closer than family. If you wish, maintenance free living and a virtually all-inclusive lifestyle, enable you to create an active schedule because there are so many things to do! You will rub shoulders with new friends who have shared life’s experiences through planned events, trips, clubs and activities. Generally in a CCRC, you move from one building to the next when your care needs exceed the ‘fit’ of the previous apartment home, but you stay within the same campus. I know, the idea of moving again, even many years in the future, may not
excite you, but having access to the right environment when you need it will be a relief not only to you, but your family as well. Some CCRCs even enable you to move from independent living to a higher level of care without a significant increase in the monthly fee so you can do so without fear of exceeding your financial resources or jeopardizing your estate. In closing, I encourage you to look for organizations that have been part of the Waterloo or Cedar Falls communities for a long time. That can translate into a tradition of excellence and reflect how committed they are to stay. I’m partial to those that carry a non-profit orientation. That means that decisions are resident focused, instead of profit or ownership. Fortunately, you have more and better retirement living choices than your parents had when they retired – and with a little preparation, you can live your retirement life, your way! Article by Sheila Brustkern, Sales & Marketing Manager, Friendship Village
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Join Our
Family Friendship Village has multiple campuses in great Waterloo locations from which to choose. Find the one that fits you best. Friendship Village is where you can enjoy an all-inclusive, independent lifestyle with the financial protection of our Lifecare program. Join in a variety of daily activities and wellness programs, plus delicious dining options include an elegant restaurant, two cafés, a pub, and full-service buffet.We offer a full continuum of care on the same campus, if needed.
Landmark Commons is truly distinctive retirement living
where every day feels like a vacation. Savor some of the best that the Cedar Valley can offer with spacious apartments, pool and spa, workout center, woodshop, underground parking, 4-star cuisine and more.
Rosewood Estate Senior Living means Your Care, Your Way.
There’s no buy-in! Your monthly fee includes chef prepared meals and activities in a secure community lifestyle. Home Health services are available at an additional cost if needed. You’ll never move again!
Call 319-486-1680 for more info! w w w. F r i e n d s h i p V i l l a g e I o w a . c o m
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How to Choose a Travel Agent There are any number of ways to explore the vast regions of Alaska and the journey can be half the fun. Depending on how much time you have and what you'd like to see and do, cruise ships, boats, trains, planes or a round-trip adventure along the 1,400 mile Alcan Highway or any combination of them may be part of the adventure. AAA's travel professionals have extensive experience in planning dream vacations to Alaska. And they can help navigate the uncertainties created by the everchanging requirements related to the Coronavirus. Consider
these
benefits
of
working with a AAA Travel Professional:
values not found anywhere else in the marketplace.
• One-On-One Expert Guidance: Your AAA Travel Professional is genuinely interested in you and your vacation and gives you the personal attention a website cannot provide. So relax, AAA will take care of you before, during, and after your trip.
• We've Been There, Done That: AAA Travel Professionals are experienced and well-traveled, and can offer you advice for your trip often based on their personal, first-hand knowledge.
• AAA Relationships Work For You: AAA only partners with toprated, reputable travel companies who offer the latest cruise and tour choices and the most up-todate pricing, special amenities and
• Savings & Exceptional Value: Your AAA Travel Professional will work to secure the best rate within your budget. Plus you'll receive exclusive amenities which are only available at AAA.
Tourbooks, passport photos, International Driving Permits, luggage discounts and more. To explore Alaska travel options with a AAA Travel Professional Contact: AAA-The Auto Club Group 3366 Kimball Avenue Waterloo, IA 50702 319-236-3620 Article contributed by AAA Travel
• You get even more at AAA! AAA members receive materials and resources such as maps,
AAA Travel invites you to
DISCOVER ALASKA Cruise Prince William Sound, fly over Mount McKinley or experience dogsledding – a customized adventure awaits you. Plus, learn about exclusive AAA Member Benefits that add value to your trip and you won’t find or get anywhere else. AAA Waterloo 3366 Kimball Avenue, Waterloo, IA 50702 For additional information, please call 319-236-3620 to speak to a local AAA Travel Advisor. BR-0748E