Salute to Seniors
LOOK INSIDE Want to keep your mind sharp? Learning helps. Page 3.
Be prepared for changes if you move in with your kids. Page 5.
If you’re thinking of downsizing, take a look at these tips. Page 9.
You have questions about Social Security. Here are answers. Page 4.
A range of treatments exist to battle chronic pain. Page 6.
Florida and Arizona aren’t the only states to retire to. Page 11.
The Herald ■ YO U R C O M M U N I T Y N E W S PA P E R S I N C E 1 8 9 5 DUBOISCOUNTYHERALD.COM
DUBOIS COUNTY, INDIANA
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2018 SECTION B
PAGE 2 ■ SENIOR SALUTE
THE HERALD ■ FRIDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2018
Sources of income shrinking for many retirees By TOM MARGENAU Creators.com I’m sure most people reading this column have heard the term, “the three-legged stool.” That refers to the platform upon which your retirement portfolio is to be built. One of those legs represents your Social Security benefit. The second leg is savings and investments. And the third leg propping you up in retirement is a company pension. Well, over the years, that stool has gotten a little wobbly, primarily because the company pension leg keeps getting whittled away. Earning a guaranteed monthly retirement pension from your employer is now about as common as getting your company CEO offering to give you use of his private jet and his vacation home in Maui. But a fourth leg has been added to that retirement stool. It used to be a little stubby thing. But it keeps growing bigger and bigger. I’m talking about the leg that represents earnings from a job. Yup, senior citizens find themselves, either out of necessity or just plain restlessness, working and earning money well into what were supposed to be their “retirement” years. I’ve been tracking this development for years. And something just happened in the last year or two that is rather surprising. The earnings leg of the retirement stool is now the biggest and fattest leg of them all, surpassing Social Security! I give Social Security talks around the country, usually as part of a larger retirement seminar. One of the slides in my presentation displays the aggregate income (by source) of senior citizens. For many of the years I was using this pie chart slide, the three biggest pieces of the economic pie of older folks were Social Secu-
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More and more seniors are working during their retirement years. rity benefits, asset income and pensions — with Social Security always being the biggest piece. But let me move away from this pie metaphor and get back to that stool. Social Security was always the biggest and fattest and sturdiest leg on that retirement stool. Job earnings was there, but as a little spindly fourth leg. Yet it kept growing and growing. And now it’s gotten so big that it has finally surpassed the Social Security leg. According to the Social Security Administration’s Office of Research, Statistics, and Policy Analysis, here is a breakdown of the aggregate income of all senior citizens in this country: ■■ Earnings: 34 percent. ■■ Social Security: 33 percent. ■■ Private pensions: 12 percent. ■■ Savings and investments: 9 percent.
■■ Government employee pensions: 8 percent. ■■ Other income: 4 percent. In other words, for the country as a whole, the senior citizen retirement stool actually has six legs. Two of them — Social Security and earnings — are big and stout. The other four have morphed into little appendages. So it’s a wobbly stool indeed. Another way to look at that data is to determine the most common sources of income for the typical retiree (as opposed to the nationwide aggregate income illustrated above). When SSA’s research office does this, here is what they find. ■■ 84 percent of seniors get a monthly Social Security check. ■■ 63 percent of seniors have asset income. ■■ 37 percent of seniors get a
monthly private pension. ■■ 29 percent of seniors work and have earnings from their job. ■■ 16 percent of seniors get a government employee retirement pension. What that second set of statistics tells us (when compared to the first set) is that although only about a third of seniors are working, for those who do, the money they make represents a substantial part of their income. All of the information I am presenting here comes from a little SSA booklet called “Fast Facts and Figures.” It’s a wonderful source of information filled with fascinating charts and statistics. You can find it at www.socialsecurity.gov. At the top of the homepage, pull down the Menu icon. And then near the bottom of the page that pops up, click on Research,
Statistics and Policy Analysis. You will find the “Fast Facts” booklet under the Publications list. One very interesting chart in that booklet shows the relative importance of Social Security to the well-being of senior citizens in this country. It shows that for 34 percent of all senior citizens in the U.S., their Social Security check represents 90 percent or more of their income. And for 62 percent, Social Security is at least half of all their retirement income. Another number I’ve seen before, though couldn’t find in this year’s “Fast Facts” booklet, is that about 20 percent of elderly Americans are living on their Social Security check — and nothing else. Those are shocking numbers. From the very beginning of the program, people have been told that Social Security should be just one egg in their retirement basket. And they certainly should not expect to live on their Social Security checks. Obviously, and sadly, lots of people either didn’t get that message, or economic or family circumstances forced them into relying too heavily on their monthly Social Security checks. I don’t have the numbers in front of me, but I’m sure the statistics would show that most of the people who are overdependent on Social Security are the very old — those in their 80s and older. I think younger senior citizens, especially those retiring now, have gotten the message that you simply cannot depend on the government to support you in your old age. I hear from these folks all the time. Many tell me about their various sources of income and their six- or seven-figure retirement portfolios. For millions of seniors like me and my wife, our Social Security checks are the meat and potatoes on our retirement plate. But for a growing number of younger seniors, their Social Security check is just the gravy.
Getting help: Prescription drug misuse and abuse By TAWNY MAYA MCCRAY Creators.com Grandma and grandpa don’t typically come to mind when we think of addiction. But prescription drug and alcohol abuse among people older than 50 is a rapidly growing epidemic in our country. According to a Unity Rehab article, the rate of accidental overdoses among this generation is higher than that of people between ages 25 and 44 for the first time in history. The article explains that baby boomers had the highest substance abuse rates as teens and young adults among any of the other living generations, due to the hippie Woodstock era of sex,
drugs and rock and roll. Widespread substance use and intoxication were part of the social norm, says Brenda Iliff, executive director of Hazelden in Naples, a facility that is part of the Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation. The Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation is a leading nonprofit provider of addiction treatment and recovery resources, with 17 sites across the country. Iliff says they are seeing more and more patients from the Baby Boom and even earlier generations. “For example, at Hazelden in Naples, Florida, almost half of our patients are now 50 years and older, including many who are older than 60,” she says. Some reasons for this new crop of addiction, Iliff says, stems from
the fact that as we age, we all become more vulnerable to pain and other health-related conditions that may prompt pharmaceutical interventions. Lifestyle changes as we age can also contribute to substance abuse. Risk factors for older adults
may include loss of structure or relationships, acute loneliness, surgery, chronic pain, depression or anxiety. “More older adults may also be using prescription drugs and alcohol as a coping mechanism for today’s heightened stress levels,
with increased work hours, political unrest, a widening income gap and a never-ending flow of online information to worry about,” Iliff says. See DRUG on Page 3
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THE HERALD ■ FRIDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2018
SENIOR SALUTE ■ PAGE 3
Learning helps keep mind sharp By JULIA PRICE Creators.com Learning is a lifelong gift that we are able to unwrap a little more every single day. The mind is like a muscle, and keeping it active can lead to increased longevity and happiness. To find opportunities to engage with others and keep your mind sharp, look no further than your home and your community. Brain-training apps have the benefit of being accessible anywhere, anytime. All you need is a smartphone or tablet. Peak, Elevate and Lumosity, three of the most popular that are available for Android and iOS, are all worth a try. Peak offers a collection of 30 games that cover memory, mental agility, language and attention, a variety that could keep your daily sessions from becoming a chore. Elevate offers more than 30 games; additionally, it tracks your daily use in a calendar and increases difficulty as you improve. Lumosity’s games are mixed and matched for each daily program, and the app tracks your speed, memory, problem-solving abilities and more over time to show improvement. These apps can be at your fingertips no matter where your errands or activities might take you, which might make it easier to form a daily habit and hold yourself accountable. Learning a new language can be a fun, energizing way to improve cognitive and problem-solving ability. The Eton Institute, which
Drug (Concluded from Page 2) When dealing with the older population, there are also things like cognitive impairment and memory loss that can affect people’s ability to take their medications as prescribed. And, Iliff points out, while most physicians avoid prescribing medications that are dangerous in combination, some older adults have multiple physicians and can end up with medications that should not be taken concurrently. As we age, we also metabolize medications or substances differently, and it can take the body longer to rid itself of toxins. That can, in turn, increase the risk of overuse and even overdose. According to an article on Addiction Center’s website, there are challenges to identifying addiction in the elderly. Alcohol or drug abuse may actually mimic symptoms of other medical or mental
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offers language-learning services for all levels, says: “Learning a new language means your brain has to cope with complexity as it makes sense of and absorbs new patterns. As our brains work out meaning, endeavoring to communicate, we develop key learning skills.” Challenging the mind to learn and recall new knowledge is a great brain workout. Sign up for a group language class at your local community college. Or if you prefer an individual endeavor, invest in a language software like Rosetta Stone or a language app like Duolingo so you can practice every day from the comfort of your own home. No matter which language you choose, you are sure to enjoy being able to communicate in new ways with people from other cultural backgrounds. If you have a knack for electronics or want to become more tech-savvy, the Apple store often offers free classes on basic computer knowledge, music, movie and photo programs, and more. Class size tends to be small, and each class is taught by an Apple professional. You may benefit from the interactive nature of this learning environment and enjoy the social aspect of meeting new people. If friends or family members are eager to learn as well, you could gather together and make it a fun outing. However you make it happen, you will come away more comfortable and confident in your technological abilities. Getting involved in senior ac-
tivities in your local community can be a fun and enjoyable way to stay active. Check your local recreation center for a list of senior programs and classes, from jewelry making, to gardening, to cooking. Alternatively, the Meetup online social networking service allows you to organize or join a group of individuals who share
health disorders, such as diabetes, dementia or depression. This makes it easy for doctors who encounter an older patient to chalk up declining mental or physical health simply to “old age.” The article states that some signs of elderly drug abuse to look for include memory problems, changes in sleeping habits, unexplained bruises, irritability, sadness, depression, unexplained chronic pain, changes in eating habits, wanting to be alone often, failing to bathe or keep clean, losing touch with loved ones and lack of interest in usual activities. Once addiction is identified, it is critical to seek out a treatment center that has specific experience working with seniors facing addiction. The program should also offer case management services, as individuals older than 65 typically lack the social support required
throughout recovery. These case management services will provide the elderly with access to medical, psychiatric and social resources to allow for a healthy lifestyle to continue after treatment. Iliff says that unfortunately, only 1 in 10 people with a substance use disorder receive professional help. “We need more older Americans in recovery to stand up and speak out and provide hope to those who are still struggling,” she says. “Betty Ford was 60 when she went to treatment and began her recovery from addiction to prescription opioids and alcohol. She remains a shining example for other older Americans.” Iliff is right when she says more needs to be done to educate people on safer alternatives for preserving their physical, mental, emotional and spiritual health.
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PAGE 4 ■ SENIOR SALUTE
THE HERALD ■ FRIDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2018
Rapid-fire answers to Social Security questions By TOM MARGENAU Creators.com
A: Well, for the thousand and second time, no! If you take any Social Security before age 66, you MUST apply for your own benefits first. By the way, I was assuming your husband is still alive. If he’s not, then you can do what you proposed because the rule I just cited doesn’t apply to widows.
Because Social Security rules can be so confusing to so many people, and because it can take some time to explain those rules, I usually spend an entire column trying to clarify just one topic. But every once in a while, I like to give short and quick answers to as many questions as possible covering a wide array of subjects. Q: I am turning 66 and am about to file for my Social Security. What documents will I need? A: Generally, you will need your birth certificate and a copy of your last W-2 form (or tax return if you are self-employed). You need the former to prove you are old enough to qualify for benefits. You need the latter because your benefit is based on your earnings. The Social Security Administration will have a record of all your past earnings, but they may not have the most recent year posted yet. Q: If I apply for my Social Security at age 62 but still work part time, I understand that I am penalized if I make more than about $16,000 per year. Will those penalties apply to me for the rest of my life? A: No. Once you reach age 66, those penalties go away. You could make a million dollars per year from age 66 on and you’d still get your Social Security checks. Q: We have an unusual situation. My wife and I just got married about two years ago. I am 72, and she is 71. And this was a first-time marriage for both of us. But I’m worried that I might die before we hit the 10-year marriage mark and my wife won’t get widow’s benefits on my record. Are there exceptions to that rule? A: The 10-year marriage rule only applies to divorced people. So assuming you two lovebirds are still married when you die, and assuming your Social Security benefit rate is higher than hers, your wife will get widow’s benefits on your account. Q: I am getting my own Social Security. My ex-husband is getting a lot more than I am. I wonder if I am due anything on his record. But if I am, I don’t want to hurt him. Will his check get cut if I get some of his Social Security? A: Anything paid to a divorced spouse is just an add-on benefit. In other words, if you are due any extra benefits on his record, it won’t take a dime away from what he is getting. Your own benefit can be supplemented up to one third to one half of his, depending on your age.
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Tom Margenau answers some common questions about Social Security. Q: I have power of attorney for my elderly mother. I called SSA to file a change of address, and they wouldn’t talk to me. What gives? A: SSA is very strict about privacy laws. Those laws say the information from your mother’s records can only be given to her. If she is mentally incapable of handling her own affairs, they can be shared with her representative. You can get a power of attorney designation for lots of reasons, not just mental incompetence. If your mother is mentally alert, she has to change her own address. If she is not, then you should request to be what SSA calls her “representative payee.” If you do that, it not only means you can handle her Social Security affairs, it also means her Social Security benefits will come in your name for her. Q: Why does the law require me to carry my Social Security card and my Medicare card with me at all times? A: There is no such law. I haven’t had my Social Security card in my wallet for over 40 years. And my Medicare card is buried in one of my desk drawers. I dig it out when I go to the doctor. But even they rarely ask to see it anymore. Q: I am getting Social Security. We have a 16-year-old daughter who has been severely disabled since birth. She is also getting benefits on my account. Will her checks stop when she turns 18? A: No, her Social Security checks will continue, probably for the rest of her life. But shortly before her 18th birthday, you need to contact SSA and fill out some forms to get her converted from regular dependent child’s benefits to what they call “disabled adult child” benefits.
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Q: Recently, I got a letter from Social Security telling me they overpaid me about $5,000. They want the money back. What can I do? A: If you disagree with the reason for the alleged overpayment, you should file an appeal and ask them to review your case. If you accept the fact that you’ve been paid too much, you’ve got three choices. Pay it back all at once. Pay it back in installments, letting them take a certain amount each month out of your Social Security check. Or if you can’t afford to pay it back, and if you can prove to them that it wasn’t your fault that you were overpaid, you can file for a waiver, essentially asking them to write off the debt.
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THE HERALD ■ FRIDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2018
SENIOR SALUTE ■ PAGE 5
Talk first, move in with adult children second By KRISTEN CASTILLO Creators.com Many seniors today are moving in with their adult children to save money; to allow the adult child to serve as caregiver; or to allow grandparents to help babysit grandchildren. The reasons vary, but the overall trend is consistent. According to Pew Research, a record 60.6 million Americans live in multigenerational households (i.e., a household that includes two or more adult generations, or one that includes grandparents and grandchildren). In 2014, 23 percent of Americans ages 55 to 64 and 21 percent who were 65 or older lived in multigenerational households. The most common type of multigenerational household consists of two adult generations, typically parents and adult children older than 25. (This excludes collegeaged students who still live at home.) That’s the living situation for 29.7 million Americans. Another 26.9 million Americans have a three-generation household (typically grandparents, parents and grandkids). Whatever the reason or the setup, when seniors move in with their adult kids, they have a lot to consider. “Seniors considering moving in with adult kids must be prepared for two major things: a change in the hierarchy of the former family dynamic and accepting the way that their now adult children have chosen to live their lives,” says R.W. Burke, author of “Quiet the Rage: How Learning to Manage Conflict Will Change Your Life (and the World).” He says seniors are used to having their kids depend on them. By moving in together, that dynamic may be changed. It’s important to set up fair and specific rules for the whole family, young and old. Great expectations Seniors and their adult kids and families need to talk extensively before moving in together.
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Seniors who move in with their adult children get plenty of quality time with the grandchildren in the household. “When seniors consider living with their adult kids, they need to be honest with themselves about their expectations,” say Sandra Butler and Nan Gefen, authors of “It Never Ends: Mothering Middle-Aged Daughters.” Some seniors think parentadult child relationships will change when they live together. Will old tensions will go away? Maybe, maybe not. “Living together isn’t going to change anyone, and it might exacerbate troubles that already exist,” according to Butler and Gefen. “Sometimes relationships improve, but often they don’t. And that needs to be OK with seniors before moving in.” Money matters Financial situations will vary, but make sure you all have clear guidelines on how the parent,
Have a smartphone? There’s an app for that By JULIA PRICE Creators.com Smartphone apps are often used for entertainment, social media and simple day-to-day activities, such as getting driving directions, playing music and checking the weather. However, there is an entire group of apps designed specifically not only to help seniors keep their minds active but also to help make their daily tasks a little easier to achieve. Here are 20 apps that you can download immediately to help make your life smoother. ■■ Lumosity is an app developed by a team of researchers who create brain training games that keep your cognitive abilities intact. This is great for keeping a sharp memory and also helps you stay on top of your problem-solving skills. ■■ Skype is a webcam service that allows you to talk face-toface with your loved ones. If you have an iPhone, an iPad, an iMac or a MacBook, you can also use FaceTime. ■■ Audible is an ad-free, uninterrupted audiobook service with all of the latest books, plus your favorite classics. Membership is $14.95 a month. ■■ WebMD’s Symptom Checker app allows you to get more information on your condition, get health information updates and
find health listings based on your location. ■■ Spotify, iTunes and Pandora are music apps. You can make a playlist or purchase your favorite songs, creating a mood to either relax you or get you motivated for some physical activity. ■■ Medisafe allows you to establish a Medfriend — a family member, friend or caregiver -- and if you forget to take your medication, that person will be notified and can follow up with you. ■■ Pillboxie was created by a registered nurse. It shows you which pills you’ve taken and keeps you on schedule with taking them. ■■ With Park’n’Forget, once you park in a lot, you can hit a button and it will automatically save the location of your car. This can be especially helpful if the parking area is very large. ■■ Find My iPhone allows you to locate your Apple devices. You can track their locations and also send sound signals to lead you to them. ■■ Voice Reading is a text-tospeech app that you can use to hear what is written on the internet and in text messages; however, the user reviews are mixed. ■■ Netflix and Hulu are both subscription services that grant See APP on Page 6
adult child and respective spouses will handle money and division of labor, including household chores, such as cooking and cleaning, as well as childcare. “If possible, it is really important for the older parent to feel like he or she is contributing in some way,” says Jennifer L. FitzPatrick, who holds a master’s in social work and is the author of “Cruising Through Caregiving: Reducing The Stress of Caring For Your Loved One.” And if a parent moves in to
help an adult child financially, FitzPatrick says, it’s “crucial for the older parent to set limits on how much money will be contributed to the household.” Best practices Not sure if moving in as an extended family is a good idea? “Consider doing a trial run of living together first, maybe do it for a month to get a feel for how living together might work out,” says FitzPatrick, mentioning a two-week family vacation to a
beach or mountain house can make a good test run, too. “Have a plan. Make sure all parties are on board,” says Burke, who believes each side should have an exit strategy in case things don’t work out. “Good agreements, boundaries, clear expectations, and constant and clear communication are essential.” It’s also wise to put the living arrangements in writing. That way, if anything comes up, you’ll all have a document of the agreed expectations. If things don’t work out, stay friendly. Don’t let it ruin the family relationship long term. Caring.com suggests asking these questions before moving in with your adult children: ■■ How well do all the parties get along? ■■ How do you feel about moving in with your adult children? How do they feel about moving in with you? ■■ Does the home have adequate living space for every member of the household? For example, are there extra bedrooms? Are bathrooms available on every living level? ■■ How much care do you need now? Might you need care in the future? ■■ Are you available to help with childcare for your grandkids? ■■ How much privacy will everyone have? ■■ How will you handle finances? Some seniors and kids pool their money together; others pay rent to their adult kids. Whatever you choose, make sure all parties, including adult siblings, are comfortable with the arrangement.
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PAGE 6 ■ SENIOR SALUTE
THE HERALD ■ FRIDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2018
Chronic pain remedies for the longtime ouch By CHELLE CORDERO Creators.com Sometimes the pain that accompanies the creaking and aching in our bodies is just too much to bear. It can persist for so long that it becomes chronic pain. We need relief. For many, that has come in the form of opioid prescription medication like OxyContin, fentanyl, morphine and Vicodin. While legal, opioids are in the same class of drugs as heroin. States are now trying to control the widespread use of prescription medications. What are chronic pain sufferers to do? A range of treatments exists, from holistic to prescription. It’s a matter of taking a smart approach and finding what works. Opioids are widely used for pain management today, so much so that they have become a danger for some. Paul Christo is a leading board-certified pain specialist, board member of the American Academy of Integrative Pain Management and author of the book “Aches and Gains: A Comprehensive Guide to Overcoming Your Pain.” He notes: “Primary care providers and pain specialists prescribed opioids for chronic pain in good faith. For 20 years, it was the treatment of choice. Now we have an epidemic and deaths from opioids are at an all-time high.” Opioids reduce the number of pain signals received by the brain from the body, and they are effective, but if not used carefully, they can come at a cost. Individual states have created guidelines for medicated pain management, which are designed to reduce the use of and dependence on opioids for first-time users. Long-term users may have experienced dependency or decreased effectiveness in the prescribed dosage. Some of these patients are turning to unregulated, illegal street drugs to help with their pain. Christo recommends that doctors carefully wean these patients off opioids and help replace their pain management with nonaddictive medications, nerve blocks and other holistic treatments. Opioid therapy is just one option for pain management, and one that Dr. Christo reserves for a minority of his patients after a careful assessment of risks, benefits and medical necessity.
App (Concluded from Page 5) you access to their databases of movies and TV shows. ■■ Instant Heart Rate detects your heart rate from your finger. ■■ Eye Reader makes text larger when you hold your phone over it. ■■ Mint and Venmo keep track of your finances. Mint will tell you exactly how much money you spent on what every month. With Venmo, you can send money to friends and family. For example, you could give your grandchildren little surprises of cash if they do well on tests. ■■ With AARP’s app, you can find events in your area, plus get notified about senior discounts and keep up on all of the latest news specifically geared toward your lifestyle. ■■ Life360 tracks the whereabouts of your friends and family. ■■ Red Panic Button has a red icon that you can push in emergency situations. When you press the button, your GPS coordinates are sent to your preselected emer-
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Aerobic exercise, such as walking, is often helpful in alleviating lower back pain. He says: “There are numerous non-opioid, integrative and innovative approaches to managing chronic pain, including injections, NSAIDS like ibuprofen, nerve blocks, pain pumps and spinal cord stimulation; in addition to alternative treatments such as exercises, VR immersion, art therapy, aromatherapy and cognitive behavioral therapy.” Spinal cord stimulation may be effective for lower-back pain, for example, and peripheral nerve stimulation uses electrical stimulation to target single pain-causing nerves. The Mayo Clinic reports that a growing number of adults are turning to complementary and alternative medicine, or CAM, techniques to deal with their pain. These include relaxation and meditation, simple stretching exercises, massages, Pilates, dietary supplements and herbal remedies. Yoga is one of the most popular alternative medicine therapies. It has also been suggested that dietary changes might help alleviate pain symptoms; some foods to avoid include milk and dairy, fried and processed foods, and gluten. According to the Mayo Clinic
gency contacts. ■■ With Pill Identifier and Drug List, you can figure out the type of pill you have by taking its picture. ■■ GoodRx compares pharmacy prices on drugs and more. ■■ Moves tracks how much you move in a day. Though these apps can be incredibly beneficial to your overall quality of life, it’s just as important to spend as much time as you can having human interactions, as well. Social isolation increases our chances of premature death and depression, so use the apps but remember to prioritize connecting with your local friends and planning activities together. You can also reduce loneliness by spending time with animals. If you’re unable to get to these activities yourself, check out the AARP app to see whether there are any options for those activities to come to you, or if you’re in a retirement home, you can get involved and organize something like that yourself. Remember that these apps are to supplement your life and help you out, but don’t let them distract you from the joys of living.
website, “some CAM practitioners believe an invisible energy force flows through your body, and when this energy flow is blocked
or unbalanced, you can become sick.” They use therapies such as qi gong, healing touch and reiki to unblock and rebalance the en-
ergy. Any of these techniques can be used individually or combined with mainstream medical therapies. Christo stresses the need for communication and partnership with a general practitioner. Patients should explain their ailments in detail including what limitations are being caused by the pain, both physically and emotionally. They should also be prepared to describe the qualities of their pain (burning, stabbing, dull, achy), when and how the pain started, changes in the pain since its onset, medications or therapy they have used and what effect they had. “Patients should never ignore chronic pain,” says Christo. “If the patient is not finding sufficient relief in a reasonable time they should ask for referral to a pain management doctor.” That amount of time can vary based on the effect the unresolved pain has on the patient’s quality of life and abilities. For more advice, listen to his awardwinning national Sirius XM radio show, “Aches & Gains.” No one should be confined to the perpetual suffering and limits their chronic pain places on them. Take action today to discover ways you can work toward a more pain-free life.
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THE HERALD ■ FRIDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2018
SENIOR SALUTE ■ PAGE 7
Brain loves to shake, rattle and do-si-do By MARILYNN PRESTON Creators.com It’s one thing to lose your keys, your phone, a wallet filled with credit cards. It’s wildly upsetting, but it’s all stuff you can get back. But losing your mind? Losing your memory? Your thoughts, in mid-stride, so you have to double back and ask yourself where was I going with that story about the guy I met in yoga class who has the apricot-colored poodle? It happens to everyone — kids forget stuff, too — but I don’t like it. And one reason is that I know the mind is like a muscle. Use it or lose it. Back in the old days — maybe 40 years ago — neuroscientists thought the brain was fixed, not fluid, and the older you got, the more senile you became. Not true! (They were also wrong about eating fat making you fat, but I’ll save that for another time.) Your brain has more plasticity than a can of Play-Doh. With luck, and grace, and effort, you can keep it juiced and joyful and learning new things right till the end. It’s not only possible but also fun! Here are two brain boosters to help you keep your mind active, your memories sharp and your synapses sparking joy: It’s well established that your brain thrives on exercise. Physical activity — from cleaning house to climbing walls — increases blood flow to the brain. And within the brain, it stimulates the release of chemicals that make us think better, feel better and even be better at certain tasks, like remembering the point of that story about the guy in yoga class with the apricotcolored poodle. While all exercise is good for the brain, new research published in Frontiers in Human Neuroscience recently set my toes a-tapping. Dancing, it turns out, is one of the best exercises you can do for the aging brain. Repetitive endurance training (such as cycling and walking) also ranks high when it comes to an anti-aging effect on your hippocampus — the region that controls memory, learning and balance — but dancing beats the competition. And here’s the twist: It works best if you’re constantly changing your dance routines and genres. The seniors who showed the biggest boost to their brains were switching between jazz, square, Latin American and line dancing. “Steps, arm patterns, formations, speed and rhythms were changing every second week to keep them in a constant learning process,” said Dr. Kathryn Rehfield, the lead author in the study. “The most challenging aspect for them was to recall the routines under the pressure of time and without any cues from the instructor.” Yes! That level of challenge could make me cry, but that’s what the brain likes. And why it wants you to play strategy games such as chess, do word puzzles, read books or take classes that make you think, think, think. Another way to strengthen brainpower is to do some brain exercises while the body is in motion. Excuse me? “Any movement is good during mental tasks,” writes Lawrence Biscontini, an advisory board member for the Interna-
tional Council on Active Aging, in IDEA Fitness Journal. “It does not have to be intense.” So while doing sudoku, sitting still, is good for you, your brain’s neuroplasticity — its remarkable ability to change and adapt — is even more stimulated when you pair it with simple moves such as seated marching or alternating heel raises. Biscontini has come up with a series of brain-training exercises, including this one: “While your body is in motion, say your favorite color aloud. Spell it forward then backward. How many letters does the word have? Does your telephone number contain that number? If it does, then say the section of your phone number that contains that number. Repeat the numerical answer backwards. If not, then repeat a section of your phone number forward and
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Dancing is the ideal exercise for aging brains. then backward.” If you like the challenge of that, you’ll love his website. “Coupling brain games with appropri-
ate movements,” says Biscontini, “is one of the waves of the future for helping to change not that we age but how we age.”
Yes! And that makes all the difference. If you forget why, start tapping your toes and go back to paragraph five.
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THE HERALD ■ FRIDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2018
Find out what your antiques are really worth By KRISTEN CASTILLO Creators.com TV shows like “Antiques Roadshow,” “Pawn Stars” and “Storage Wars” make us all think we’re surrounded by treasures that could be sold for big bucks. Look around your house and you probably have some valuable things — coins, baseball cards, albums, dishware, collectibles. You think the items could bring in cash, but how much? And would people buy them? Read on for a look at how to determine worth for your prized possessions and other goods. It can be tough to figure out the value of your items unless you know where to look. Appraiser Helaine Fendelman of Helaine Fendelman & Associates says sellers can find similar items and then interpret prices on their own. She recommends hiring a qualified appraiser to assist. “Price guide books may help identify items,” she says, cautioning that evaluation books are often out of date since they source rates from two or three years prior. Keep in mind the item’s condition — poor, fair, good, excellent — will help determine the price. Look online to find and compare list prices and see how much buyers paid for similar items. Remember that list prices are what sellers think the item is worth but not everything sells at that level. The sold price is often more reflective of an item’s actual worth. Next check out flea markets and estate sales to see what’s selling and for how much. Stop by a consignment shop in your area to talk to an expert with appraisal experience. “Most auction houses provide free evaluations of auction esti-
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Want to sell your valuables like coins or tea sets? Research resale prices and contact an auction house for an appraisal. mates with no obligation,” says Olivia Tornick of Rago Arts and Auction Center, an auction house that’s been featured on “Antiques Roadshow.” Send them a few photos and descriptions of your items and ask them for their opinion on fair auction value. Before you start selling online or in-person, have a minimum amount in mind. Many times, a dealer will ask you how much you want for an item, instead of telling you how much it can actually sell for. After all, they want to resell the collectible for a profit. Still not all things vintage are worth lots of money. Take movie posters, for example. “I stress that people should
Driving after age 65 brings safety concerns By MARILYN MURRAY WILLISON Creators.com Nobody wants to lose their independence, and losing the ability to drive can be one of the most painful adjustments older people are forced to make if the situation isn’t handled sensitively. Michael Gartner, a Pulitzer Prize-winning former president of NBC News, wrote a lighthearted essay about the clever way his elderly parents solved that dilemma. I was surprised to learn that out of the over 220 million licensed drivers in the U.S., almost 1 in 5 are older than 65 years old. In fact, there are more baby-boom drivers today then teenage ones. While there are over 40 million over-65 drivers, there are fewer than 10 million licensed teenagers. Between 2015 and 2016, the number of drivers between 75 and 79 years old increased by 5 percent, a near match in the increase of drivers over the age of 85. The primary reason all this data is available is because a study by the Federal Highway Administration was conducted with the specific goal of linking elderly motorists to U.S. traffic deaths. Records reveal that in 2016, there was an 8.2 percent increase in fatal car crashes where the driver was 65 or older. For this reason, the California Highway Patrol advocates free refresher courses for drivers over the age of 65 who may need to cope with age-related conditions like slower reflexes, decreased flexibility and declining vision.
There are a variety of programs to help older individuals maintain their safe-driver status. AARP offers both online and classroom courses for drivers over 50. For more information, visit http:// www.aarp.org/findacourse or call 888-AARP-NOW. The 55 Alive Mature Driver Program classes cost under $20, and some auto insurance companies offer discounts for those who successfully complete a driver safety program. AAA offers driver improvement courses — for those over 55 — that is specifically designed to help seniors be safer and stay behind the wheel longer. Topics like how to become a better defensive driver and understanding how prescription medications can affect driving skills are included. The National Safety Council sponsors a Coaching the Mature Driver Program, and the American Occupational Therapy Association has joined forces with both AAA and AARP to help senior drivers by creating the CarFit program. Since I live in south Florida, I see more than my share of older drivers, and some are competent and reliable while others are borderline scary. I couldn’t help but smile last month when I overheard one 80-year-old widow playing mahjong describe her new beau to the other players at the table. “The nicest and most surprising thing about dating Lou,” she told them, “is that he can still drive at night.” The safe-driving boyfriend she was describing was a retired dentist who happened to be 91 years old.
buy for enjoyment, not investment purposes,” says Ilena Di Toro, owner of JustMoviePosters.com Collectibles ranging from Hummel figurines and Pokemon cards to Beanie Babies and Cabbage Patch dolls used to be moneymakers but are now collecting
dust. Elvis collectibles are depreciating fast, too. “The reason is Elvis’ original fans are in their 70s and 80s and they are either dying or downsizing,” says Di Toro. “So, any Elvis memorabilia they have is being
sold for pennies on the dollar at yard sales or on eBay.” Iconic baseball cards for players like Babe Ruth and Mickey Mantle are still in demand, but other baseball cards — including rookie cards from Darryl Strawberry, Roger Clemens and Ken Griffey Jr. — aren’t hot commodities. That’s because there are so many of them in circulation. In many cases, current owners may find more sentimental value in their stuff, rather than monetary value. It’s tough to get rich off collectibles these days, so enjoy them. And when it’s time sell, keep your expectations realistic and get as much cash as you can. Check out these online resources to compare prices. ■■ eBay: Use this site to check resale prices on almost anything worldwide. ■■ Bonanza.com: This online marketplace has goods ranging from purses to jewelry to sports memorabilia and more. ■■ Amazon.com: This is particularly good for determining resale prices of books and music. ■■ USACoinbook.com: This is a place to buy, sell and auction American and foreign coins. ■■ Barnebys.com: Buy and sell watches, artwork, gems and other items on this site. Get appraisal, too, for a fee.
THE HERALD ■ FRIDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2018
SENIOR SALUTE ■ PAGE 9
What to do with extra stuff when downsizing By KRISTEN CASTILLO Creators.com After a lifetime of collecting things, many seniors decide to streamline their lifestyles and downsize their homes. Luggage sets, holiday dishes and decorations, piles of photo albums and even gardening equipment can all stack up in a large home. So when moving to a smaller place, what should you do with all your extra stuff? “Changing space isn’t a bad thing,” says Claudia McLaughlin founder of CMF Transitional Organization LLC, a company that specializes in helping seniors transition between homes. Instead of using the term downsizing, she calls it “rightsizing.” “When rightsizing seniors, we create a floor plan for the new home using existing furniture,” she says, suggesting offering family members the furniture and accessories the senior no longer wants or needs. “The remainder of furniture and accessories can then be evaluated for value — should they be sold, auctioned or donated.” Once you’ve chosen to downsize, the biggest challenge is making decisions on what to keep. Professional organizer Ellia Harris of The Potential Center says downsizing decision-making is tough for two reasons: “The items we have the most difficulty making decisions about are the ones to which we have the most emotional attachment,” she says. The second reason: “We make hundreds of decisions every day but we rarely make choices about what to keep and what to discard,” says Harris, concluding, “Change is difficult anyway, but when there are so many memories in our surroundings it feels like we are leav-
search for a photo-scanning company to turn those prints into digital files, which can be displayed in digital frames. It can be a bit trickier managing collectibles and other keepsakes. For example, place childhood art projects into a portfolio book or scan them. For bigger things that you won’t have room for in your new home, Harris advises asking family or friends to keep the items “on loan,” like museums do with art pieces. To ease into the transition, it is best to: ■■ Start small. Walk around your home and pulling out
Robert A Ehrhard, MD Board Certified in Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery Fellowship trained in Plastic and Cosmetic Surgery CLAUDIA MCLAUGHLIN/CREATORS.COM
When downsizing, ask friends and family if they want any discarded items. If not, donate the goods to charity. ing part of our life behind when we move.” Do inventory around your home to evaluate what stays and what goes. While there isn’t a rule on how much to purge, it’s wise to compare the size your new space with your old one. For example, if your new home’s square footage is cut in half, keep about half your stuff. Downsizing isn’t just about stuff around the home, so give yourself room to handle the emotions of the move. “Just like losing a friend or
family member, there is a grieving process to go through when we leave a long-time home,” says Harris, who suggests acknowledging emotions and facing them head on with a silent thank you or blessing. You can even have an awards ceremony to bring family and friends together one last time in the home. When de-cluttering, only keep what makes you happy or has significant meaning. Everything else can go. For organizing important keepsakes like family photos, Harris suggests doing an online
Age isn’t barrier for late bloomers By CHRISTOPHER CROWN Creators.com From business to cinema, from changing careers to becoming a leader in a field, countless people in middle age and older have proved that it is never too late to achieve greatness. Some have redemption stories, whereas others were just cruising in the wrong set of circumstances, but this inspiring look at older achievers demonstrates that age has no relation to fame. Samuel L. Jackson Although not technically in his golden years, Samuel L. Jackson is a prime example of having a late claim to fame. Popular startup magazine Inc. published a review of late bloomers and cited Jackson as the ultimate phoenix metaphor. Jackson grew up with an alcoholic father and attended segregated schools. Later, he would become addicted to cocaine and heroin, vices that halted his acting career when he had to drop out of several Broadway plays. Eventually, however, Jackson booked his first major role in “Pulp Fiction,” and his career has skyrocketed ever since. Famous in movies, charity and political campaigning, he now enjoys a vegan lifestyle and worldwide success. Momofuku Ando While we all are familiar with Jackson’s pistol-wielding role in “Pulp Fiction,” another middleaged entrepreneur may have touched our lives much closer to home — or our dorms! Momofuku Ando, a Japanese credit association chairman, had the chair
things you know right away you don’t need or want. Decide whether the item will go in the trash, get recycled or be donated to charity. Paperwork, such as old credit card statements, can be shredded. ■■ Work with a pro. If needed, hire a professional organizer to help you sort through clutter and simplify your life. ■■ Sort room by room. Clean a closet, cabinet or drawer at first. Anything you don’t want can be sorted on the spot. Doing one area at a time will keep you focused. When you finish a task — even a small one, like a storage box — you’ll feel accomplished.
pulled out from under him when his company went bankrupt in 1958, says Dennis Hevesi, a contributor for The New York Times who wrote a 2007 obituary for Ando. Penniless, Ando started experimenting with instant noodles, and he eventually founded Nissin Food Products Co. at the age of 48. This business icon’s company supplies the world with Top Ramen and Cup Noodles — staples for many college students and other late-night snackers. Ando seemingly rotated 180 degrees from where he had once found success, but thanks to great products and the hustle to pursue them, he found international greatness at an age when some start thinking about retirement. Julia Child Qualifying for AARP, Julia Child truly found her calling at a later age. Although she had no history of drug abuse or crippling financial meltdown in her past, Child wandered from career to career, never quite finding the right fit, according to her profile written by Bio.com editors. After college, she pursued playwriting, but none of her work was even considered for publishing. During World War II, she served for the Office of Strategic Services, relaying top-secret information to military personnel, but she quickly left this type of administrative work after the war ended. At the age of 49, she published her first cookbook, “The French Chef,” and launched her first successful TV show, of the same name, at 51. Gladys Burrill Although no top-secret spy,
Gladys Burrill definitely tops Child’s age at her claim to fame. At 92, Burrill became the oldest person ever to finish a marathon. After her first marathon — in 2011, when she was 86 — she knew she wanted to keep going, says Associated Press reporter Mark Niesse. Her secret: positive thinking.
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THE HERALD ■ FRIDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2018
Considerations and advice for late-life divorce By NICOLA BRIDGES Creators.com Though divorce is becoming less common for younger adults, “silver” divorce is on the rise. According to a 2017 Pew Research Center study, the divorce rate for people who are 50 or older has roughly doubled since the 1990s. But before you cut ties and burn the marriage certificate, there are specific considerations for divorce late in life. Relationship coach and counselor Jonathan Bennett, co-founder of Double Trust Dating, says that on the plus side, a late-life divorce can be freeing. “For people who married young and watched their marriage turn into an exercise in misery, a divorce later in life can be a liberating experience — a fresh start to finally live life on your terms after years of feeling trapped in a marriage you hate.” But divorce can be very scary
after relying on your partner for decades. As Bennett notes, there’s a lot to untangle. “The longer you’re married the more shared history you have together, including assets,” he says. “If the divorce is hostile, it can mean extended fights over property, bank accounts and pretty much everything else. You have a lot more to fight over.” However, divorcing later in life can be less contentious because you no longer need to worry about child custody or support with grown children. Finances are of critical importance — especially making sure you are protected in retirement. “When we represent the working spouse, who might have a spousal support obligation, we want to ensure that our client can retire at a reasonable age,” Bennett says. “This can become particularly contentious when a nonworking spouse has been out of the workforce for significant time and may not be able to find work.”
Divorce attorney Andrew Winters says that whereas younger divorces are about parenting plans, silver divorces are mostly about money. “When older couples divorce, their retirement savings suddenly seem inadequate,” he says. “Usually, assets are divided to put parties on equal footing going forward.” Winters says that if one spouse earns significantly more than the other, then alimony may be awarded. However, the amount and duration of alimony in these situations is difficult to set, as neither the court nor the lower-earning spouse has control over how long the higher-earning spouse will continue to work. For example, a 65-year-old who makes $300,000 per year might claim that he is about to retire in order to avoid an alimony order, only to continue working for another 10 years after the divorce is final. Some state legislatures are trying to address this issue. For example, in New Hampshire, a bill
is pending that would terminate alimony once the person paying reaches full retirement age. One exception is that an alimony order could continue past retirement age if it reflects an offset for a disparity in Social Security benefits. Under Social Security rules, the lower-earning ex-spouse can elect to take a portion of the higher earner’s benefit, but it will be onehalf of what the higher earner gets. This new law would allow the court to offset this disparity to put each spouse on equal footing. Another consideration is that living alone greatly impacts older divorcees’ social lives — which can impact overall health. For that and other reasons, Raffi Bilek, director of the Baltimore Therapy Center, strongly suggests counseling. He says that there is so much history and baggage involved that getting some objective input can
Moving to a senior living home By JEANELLE D. HORCASITAS Creators.com Let’s face it. Our grandparents, parents and even our current generation will eventually need some sort of assistance when we get older. Luckily, there are fabulous senior living facilities available that make getting older less intimidating. In fact, according to American Senior Communities, there were about one million Americans living in some sort of senior living facility in 2016. They predict that this number will double by 2030. Although some may be resistant to move to senior living facilities because of the psychological and emotional toll it takes, there are definitely many benefits. Here are a few tips for making your transition to and experience at a senior living facility a positive one. One of the biggest fears about moving into a living facility is that our family and friends will forget us. While the thought of being alone in a new and unfamiliar space is a bit frightening, if we involve our family and friends it makes the process much easier. Therefore, discussing your choice to live in a facility with your loved ones is crucial. Express your desire to stay connected and invite them over to visit you monthly, or perhaps schedule weekly phone calls. Keeping up a conversation and having a point of contact will make the transition feel less lonely and keep you close to your loved ones. With today’s technology, it is even possible to have a live video chat to see the person in real-time. Making this transition does not mean you have to isolate yourself. Rather, it is an opportunity to stay
in touch and make new friends. While keeping up with the outside world is important, staying connected in this new place is just as important. Senior living facilities understand the need to stay occupied and fill the time with fun activities. Therefore, don’t shy away from those opportunities when they come up. From exercise classes and crafts to bingo and movie nights, activities will help you to build a community and a new home for yourself. This is also a time for you to be creative and reflect. Is there some project you always dreamt of pursuing, but never got a chance to start? Now is your chance to think through your ideas and make it happen! Getting involved and developing friendships will make your living situation much more comfortable. Therefore, do a bit of research on the living facility to ensure that it has some of the activities you value and will look forward to. One worry that seniors have when entering a living facility is that they will no longer be able to lead a “normal” life and that they will be forced to stay inside all day. This is simply not true. If you are physically able, take a stroll around the block and get out of the facility for a little while. Walk to a nearby store or cafe and enjoy the fresh air. The last thing you want to do is make yourself feel stuck. Remember to utilize your independence and get out once in a while. There are even facilities that have buses or shuttles that can take you to where you need to go, whether you go out for a bite to eat, or need some retail therapy. If you have visitors keeping you company for a few hours, encour-
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make a big difference. “Who can process three, four or five decades of relationship history on their own?” he says. “Couples therapy can help you take a fresh look at some of the things you may have taken for granted for so many years. We get used to things. We get into routines. And we never question some of the things we do or think. Having an outsider come and shake up our perspective can show things in a new light.” Ultimately, Bilek says, before making the decision to divorce, ask yourself and your spouse: What do I need out of this marriage that I didn’t need in previous times? Are we capable of changing to meet each other’s current needs? Why do we want to get a divorce? Why now? What will life look like for us if we do/do not get divorced at this point?
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THE HERALD ■ FRIDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2018
SENIOR SALUTE ■ PAGE 11
Best states to live in during retirement By CHRISTOPHER CROWN Creators.com When it comes to strategic retirement, not all states are created equal. With the oldest baby boomers reaching retirement age and the oldest generations living longer, counties all across America are graying. In fact, a Pew Research Center analysis of 2014 Census Bureau data shows 97 percent of counties have seen an increase in their 65-and-older population since 2010. This disparity has caused some crowding in traditional retirement locales and created a desire among seniors to explore lesser-known retirement states. Of course, many long to settle down somewhere where they feel forever on vacation — and that can happen — but you must evaluate the necessities that will make a location not only enjoyable but also sustainable. Florida and Arizona have long been the meccas for retirees. At 19.1 percent, the Sunshine State has a larger concentration of people 65 and older than any other state, due mostly to its low taxes and warm weather. Dry-weather lovers are also taken by the financial benefits of Arizona’s extremely low sales tax, nonexistent estate tax and low taxes on retirement income and Social Security benefits. However, in the personal finance website Bankrate’s ranking of the best and worst states in which to retire, neither state even makes the top 10, says writer Claes Bell. Rankings were determined based on a number of factors including cost of living, weather, health care, crime, tax, culture and wellbeing. Though both states rank well in cost of living and weather, crime and culture were the sticking points. So before jumping the gun, consider the bigger picture and other locales that might fit your lifestyle and comfort. Retirees must create financial security by finding a place where they are able to maximize their retirement money. Most retirees either depend upon or utilize fixed income like Social Security to help with the cost of living. According to the Employee Benefit Research Institute’s 2017 Retirement Confidence Survey, only 6 in 10 workers feel somewhat confident that they’ll have enough finances to retire comfortably, and nearly 4 in 10 have little or no savings at all. Nari Rhee, director of the Retirement Security Program at the University of California, Berkeley, Center for Labor Research and Education, says retirees must evaluate the whole financial picture of a city. “They think the state has low taxes, ergo I can stretch my dollars further,” Rhee says. “But if that also means they’re going to be paying more for out-of-pocket costs for their health care or longterm care, then that’s going to
Retirees are facing increased cost of living and unstable taxes and health care. Finding the right state to retire in is no longer as easy as picking your favorite beach. AREK SOCHA CREATORS.COM
make a difference.” WalletHub, an online financial resource, conducted a review of each state’s financial environment for seniors to find the best and worst states to retire. Some of the main findings, as shared by WalletHub senior writer Richie Bernardo, include the following: Texas, Tennessee, Ohio and Oklahoma dominated the charts for lowest adjusted cost of living. Texas, Florida, Alabama and Tennessee hold the top 10 spots for affordability. Though each couple will have a unique set of retirement priorities and needs, the top 3 cities in Bankrate’s list offer amenities that are sure to please all. In the No. 1 spot is New Hampshire, which isn’t the sunniest of states but offers beautiful nature, low crime rates, no state income tax and good-quality health care. The beautiful Rocky Mountain vistas of Colorado could be enough to garner the state second place, but other attractions for retirees are plentiful: cultural activities, culinary adventures and a climate that offers both snowy ski resorts and sunny skies. A social network and support network is vital to happiness at all ages. In third place, Maine has a high cultural vitality score, Bankrate’s measurement of consumer and state arts spending. “When you’re retired, you’ll have time to enjoy those things, and Maine does well on that,” Bell said. Evaluate what’s most important on your list so you can find your perfect match. When it comes to retirement, it’s not just the “when” that’s important; it’s the “where.” With careful thought and planning, you can make a confident and informed choice that will leave you waking up every day in your paradise.
Essential updated Medicare information By CHELLE CORDERO Creators.com Medicare is a United States government program to assist the elderly, disabled and those with specific medical conditions with medical insurance coverage. Original Medicare is a feefor-service health plan that has two parts: Part A (hospital insurance) and Part B (medical insurance). Signed into law in 1965 by
President Lyndon B. Johnson, it was an attempt to cover health insurance for the elderly and disabled. Any U.S. citizen (for at least five years) who earned a minimum of 40 points (quarters of qualifying work) is eligible for free Part A coverage upon reaching his or her 65th birthday. Initial Medicare enSee MEDICARE on Page 12
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PAGE 12 ■ SENIOR SALUTE
Medicare (Concluded from Page 11) rollment for seniors is within the three months before and after the month in which they turn 65. Everyone turning 65 should sign up for Medicare through Social Security — whether or not he or she is still working or covered by another insurance policy to avoid fees and penalties later on. Any person who has been receiving Social Security disability benefits qualifies for Medicare the 25th month of his or her disability. Patients diagnosed with end-stage renal disease or Lou Gehrig’s disease can sign up for Medicare coverage without waiting. But Original Medicare is not designed to cover all of a ben-
THE HERALD ■ FRIDAY, OCTOBER 26, 2018
eficiary’s medical costs. Original Medicare consists of Part A and Part B; the patient pays a deductible and then Medicare pays the Medicareapproved amount. Medicare has been expanded to provide a much more comprehensive coverage of health care for the elderly and disabled. Elective add-ons include Part D for prescription coverage through private insurance companies. Part C is called Medicare Advantage and provided from private insurance companies who have contracted with Medicare; Medicare Advantage combines A and B, and Medicare Advantage Drug combines Parts A, B and D. Plans F and G are supplement insurance plans that cover Medicare Part B excess charges, the difference between what a provider charges and the amount
Medicare will pay. At this time, there are no major changes in store for the 2018 Medicare program — with the exception of expected higher premiums. For seniors who did not work at least 40-qualifying quarters in their career, Part A coverage can cost up to $422 per month in 2018. Part A hospital inpatient deductible and coinsurance can have upwards of a $1,340 deductible for each benefit period. The standard Part B 2018 premium is $134 per month with a $1,316 deductible for each benefit period. Part C and Part D premiums vary by plans. Seniors and disabled with limited finances may be eligible for assistance in paying for Part B and other supplemental policies through their state’s Medicare/Medicaid programs. It certainly sounds confusing,
but the decisions and possible repercussions are important. While the federally run Medicare program operates similar to a single-payer health care system, it may only 80 percent of any given medical cost. The balance of the cost of service must be paid out of the consumer’s own pocket or covered by a supplemental insurance policy (with premiums paid by the consumer). The Medicare open enrollment period for 2018 was Oct. 15 to Dec. 7, 2017; this annual period is allotted to allow Medicare beneficiaries the opportunity to shop around for plans that will help supplement their insurance coverage. Plan premiums can vary, as well as the services and networks covered. Consumers should look at their own health histories and lifestyles costs, such as travel
and finances in order to make an educated decision for the coming year. There is help in understanding the benefits and deficits of any given program and making an informed decision. The State Health Insurance Assistance Programs provide free, in depth, one-on-one insurance counseling and assistance to Medicare beneficiaries, their families, friends and caregivers. SHIPs operate in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Guam, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, and are grantfunded projects of the federal U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and U.S. Administration for Community Living. Contact SHIPs and use the state locator to find someone who knows your specific state’s guidelines and offerings.
Learning vacations hot new trend for seniors By MARILYN MURRAY WILLISON Creators.com Summertime is right around the corner, which means this is the perfect time to think about getting out of Dodge. And if you are like most seniors, you are always on the lookout for a different type of travel. With all the uncertainty in the world today — and the annoying airline complications — few people are willing to sacrifice precious time or hard-earned cash unless there are unique experiences and opportunities waiting for them at their destination. “Learning vacations” have become a hot travel trend these days because they offer an infor-
mal brand of higher education married to a variety of appealing locales. There are several reliable organizations that do all the hard work for you prior to your departure. Essentially, all you have to do is decide where you want to go, what you’d like to learn and which credit card you want to use to pay for the trip. Here is a brief roundup of available travel options, both near and far. ■■ Road Scholar (not to be confused with Rhodes scholarships) is considered to be the leader in not-for-profit educational travel. It has been around since 1975, including over 6,000 tours, and it offers travel in all 50 states as well as 150 countries. ■■ Shaw Guides. This service of-
fers online access to a continually updated resources for learning vacations. From artists’ and writers’ residences, to golf and tennis camps, to language and wine courses, this is a great way to find out what is available. ■■ Cornell’s Adult University. Whether you want to study during a four-week program on the Ivy League campus or have an international adventure under the guidance of enthusiastic and knowledgeable Cornell faculty members, this program is well worth researching. ■■ ElderTreks. Since 1987, many consider this to have been the first adventure travel program specifically designed for people over the age of 50. There are hundreds of
trip options available that last between two and five weeks and cost between $4,000 and $12,000. ■■ Smithsonian Journeys. With over 150 destinations and trips to all seven continents, these journeys include access to expert specialists in fields like archeology, science and history. The flexible options include single travel or family excursions, and they range from one to three weeks in duration. ■■ Semester at Sea: Lifelong Learning Program. Here’s an opportunity to live on a large ship traveling from port to port around the world. You can join undergraduate students in their classes, teach a seminar in your field of expertise or serve as a mentor to
a younger person onboard. These programs last 15 weeks and a double room costs about $40,000. The ships stop at 11 countries. ■■ National Geographic Photography Trips. If you’d like to travel to exotic locales and take photos alongside some of the best photographers on the planet, this program is for you. Trips range from one to three weeks and can cost anywhere from $3,000 to $20,000 or more. Whatever you plan to do with your travel time, I hope it will be both enjoyable and enlightening. Plus, there’s great appeal (for me, at least) in exploring new places and learning new things with peers of a similar age. Bon voyage!
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