Westchester County Boomers & Beyond February 2015 ebook

Boomers d n o y e &B Westchester County

February 2015

Legal advice for Medicaid & Asset-Protection planning.

Call (914) 816-2900 today!

See page 14

Five Star Premier Residence of Yonkers

Independent living, assisted living, Alzheimer's & respite care p7

photo credit: American Heart Association Go Red For Women.

Deb Koziol’s Story p4

A & J Homecare

A leader in Home Care when your loved one needs the best care p8

Drum Hill Senior Living A feeling of home p11

A & T Home Healthcare

Provides a full range of home healthcare services p12

Schnurmacher Center Quality rehabilitation p16

Talking Alternatives

helps people find common ground when dealing with difficult family decisions p17

HEART HEALTH

PAGE 2

February, 2015

Boomers & Beyond - Westchester

Providing the Highest Quality Home Health Care in Westchester & Putnam .OW ALSO SERVING THE "RONX $UTCHESS 2OCKLAND

Our Certified Home Health Aides, supervised by Registered Nurses, can assist you or your loved one with:

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Call us to learn about our affordable rates on an hourly or live-in basis. Some third party payers provide reimbursement for our services.

800-305-9224 914-997-7912 A New York State-Licensed Home Health Care Agency An Affiliate of Visiting Nurse Services In Westchester CHAP Accredited

Westchester Care at Home, 360 Mamaroneck Ave, White Plains, NY 10605

ATTORNEYS AT LAW Many Years of Experience Protecting the Legal Interests of the Elderly & Special Needs Populations Advising Families about: • • • • • • • • •

Medicaid Asset Protection Planning Estate Planning & Administration Special Needs Home Care Long Term Care Health Care Proxies Powers of Attorney Guardianships

See more information on page 14

Client Testimonials I reached out to you during the most stressful time of life for both my loved ones and myself - horror had occurred to my dear loving mother.

My mom had fractured her hip and due to her frail health and advanced age required risky hip replacement surgery. Many issues legal and otherwise arose which I could not personally resolve. You not only resolved each and every one, but you continue to do so now, over 4 years later.

You always display extreme sincerity, compassion and friendship, using your vast experience and confidence in your ability, to continually bring satisfaction, positive results and a tremendous sense of relief and comfort to my loved ones and myself.

You have gone out of your way to visit Mom on multiple occasions in her Nursing house and we love you for it. As an attorney, friend, and a great man, I could not possibly hope to know anyone more phenomenal. The three greatest men I have ever known are my dear departed father, my dear departed father-in-law and Ely Rosenzveig.

– Jeff D.

Westchester Financial Center 50 Main Street, Suite #1275 White Plains, NY 10606 Email: Info@ejrosenlaw.com

I hired Ely to assist with my parents estate planning and it was a wise decision. He is a true expert in navigating through complex elder care law and procedures. His guidance was invaluable and his communication excellent. I would strongly recommend his services.

Tel: (914) 816-2900

– Tom C.

www.ejrosenlaw.com ELDER LAW

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TRUSTS & ESTATES

Attorney advertising • Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome

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EMPLOYMENT LAW

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MEDIATION

PAGE 4

February, 2015

Boomers & Beyond - Westchester

Deb Koziol’s Story Cardiac Arrest Survivor, Age 55, Cranston, RI

A heart defect she’d had since birth caused Debra Koziol to go into sudden cardiac arrest. Her husband’s CPR training—and a lifetime of keeping her heart healthy— saved her.

Debra had spent her life trying to stay healthy. She exercised often and watched her diet.

In her 20s she’d been diagnosed with mitral valve prolapse—a condition causing her heart to occasionally skip a beat. Her doctors said her MVP wasn’t cause for concern.

In August 2006, Debra was on the couch reading a book to her grandson when her husband saw her suddenly tip over. Her eyes were open and fixed, so he immediate called 9-1-1 and began CPR. The paramedics arrived, put Debra on a machine that provided compressions, and intubated her because she wasn’t breathing on her own. For more than 30 minutes she didn’t breathe on her own, which put her at risk for brain damage.

Debra, who was 47, had experienced a sudden cardiac arrest. That’s a condition in which the heart suddenly and unexpectedly stops beating stopping blood flow to the brain and other vital organs. To start her heart beating again, she was shocked six times with an automated external defibrillator on the way to the hospital.

At the hospital, doctors put her into an induced coma to allow her heart to rest; her survival the first night was uncertain.

After three days, Debra began to come out of her coma. It was two weeks before she was strong enough to have open-heart surgery to repair the leaking mitral valve that had strained her heart.

Due to complications, it was two months before she could have surgery to implant a cardioverter defibrillator, a device to shock her heart should it ever stop again.

After her recovery, Debra participated in cardiac rehab and learned more about her condition and how to keep her heart healthy.

She’d had always tried to lead a healthy lifestyle, but today she’s more consistent about exercise. She’s made important changes to her diet, too, minimizing saturated fats and carbs.

Today, Debra has no limitations due to her condition, but she’s under the close care of a cardiologist. All four of her heart valves leak, and one section of her heart is slightly enlarged. photo credit and story source: American Heart Association Go Red For Women.

Debra’s doctor says that her husband’s quick action and her good health at the time were critical to her survival.

“My doctor told me that I may not have even survived the CPR if my heart hadn’t been as strong as it was,” she said.

Debra is now 54 and a strong advocate for CPR training. She shares her story through the American Heart Association and urges others to get training.

Debra’s condition never produced symptoms before her sudden cardiac arrest.

That’s why she emphasizes the importance of keeping your heart healthy: it will be better able to withstand an emergency.

“It could be something other than heart disease, but your heart still has to be strong to withstand whatever you’re fighting,” Debra said. “I tell women, ‘Hopefully you’ll never be the one in the ambulance, but if you are, how strong do you want your heart to be?’”

Boomers & Beyond - Westchester February, 2015

• Sub-Acute Rehabilitation • Skilled Nursing Facility • Adult Day Services • Home Health Care • Independent Living • Affordable Housing for Seniors • Assisted Living • Alzheimer’s/Dementia Care • Respite/Short-Term Stay • Hospice Care • Caregiver Support • Spiritual Care

PAGE 5

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February, 2015

Boomers & Beyond - Westchester

Advertiser’s Index

Our View

A&J Home Care, Inc.........................................................................8

Valentine’s Day is, of course, all about love and romance. For many of us, the extra-special attention conjures up the warm feelings we felt when we first fell in love.

Ah, the memories.

For many seniors, this annual day of love and affection can be just another day.

Or worse: A day of increased loneliness and sorrow.

That’s where you come into play.

Many seniors are widowed or living alone, and finding a special way to show them some extra love on Valentine’s Day can make a big difference. There are so many ways to bring happiness to hearts of seniors on Valentine’s Day. Valentine’s Day is a great opportunity to show them love.

There are any number of foods and activities seniors can enjoy during this. In fact, this is a great time to also pass out hugs to your favorite people. You are never too old to have a Happy Valentine’s Day! In this edition of Boomers and Beyond, we share many ideas to help make Valentine’s Day special for that special senior(s) in your life. You'll find that you get much more back than you give!

This issue is also full of many other informative and insightful stories for our Boomers & Beyond readers. Enjoy and Happy Valentine’s Day! So get in touch at info@healthcarenewspaper.com.

Until then, Happy Holidays from all of us at Boomers & Beyond.

A&T Healthcare..............................................................................12 Bethel Home Care............................................................................9 ColumbiaDoctors............................................................................19 Dominican Sisters Family Health Service........................................10 Drum Hill Senior Living Community................................................11 Ely J. Rosenzveig & Associates, PC.............................................3,14 Five Star Premier Residence of Yonkers.........................................7 Glen Island Center for Nursing and Rehabilitation.........................13 Schnurmacher Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing..................16 Neighbors Home Care Services.......................................................15 Talking Alternatives.........................................................................17 VNA of Hudson Valley.....................................................................20 Victoria Home...................................................................................4 The Wartburg..................................................................................5 Westchester Audiology...................................................................18 Westchester Care at Home..............................................................2

Westchester County

Boomers nd & Beyo

Jim Stankiewicz, General Manager

845-534-7500 • (fax) 845-534-0055 Info@HealthcareNewspaper.com PUBLISHER Joseph P. Belsito (Joe@healthcarenewspaper.com) ••• GENERAL MANAGER James Stankiewicz (Jim@healthcarenewspaper.com) ••• MANAGING EDITOR Cathryn Burak (Cathy@healthcarenewspaper.com) ••• SENIOR SALES CONSULTANT Maureen Rafferty Linell (MRLinell@charter.net) ••• MARKETING EXECUTIVE Anthony Mairo (Anthony@healthcarenewspaper.com) ••• CIRCULATION Michelle Belsito (Michelle@healthcarenewspaper.com) ••• SENIOR CORRESPONDENTS Brendan Coyne John Jordan

Corporate Information Healthcare News - Westchester, New York edition - Vol. 8 No. 2 - is published monthly, 12 times a year by Belsito Communications, Inc., 1 Ardmore Street, New Windsor, NY 12553. Postage Paid at New Windsor, NY and additional mailing offices. Postmaster: Send address changes to Healthcare Newspaper, 1 Ardmore Street, New Windsor, NY, 12553. No financial responsibility is assumed by this newspaper to publish a display, classified, or legal ad or for typographical errors except of reprinting that part of the ad which was omitted or in error. Omissions or errors must be brought to the attention of the newspaper during the same month of publication.

Next Month in Boomers & Beyond…

Improving your hearing Audiologists guide you to the best options

Home Care How to maintain security and comfort

Pulmonary Rehabilitation Enhancing the lives of people with COPD

Boomers & Beyond - Westchester February, 2015

PAGE 7

Five Star Premier Residences of Yonkers: Hudson River Views and the Best of the City Five Star Premier Residences of Yonkers is New York’s hidden gem of senior living; with extraordinary Hudson River views and neighboring proximity to New York City, what’s not to love?

For Five Star Premier residents, a simple 15 minute trip to the city offers the best of New York’s cultural attractions, dining and shopping. Day trips to see a Broadway musical, shopping on Fifth Avenue or Sunday brunch overlooking Central Park are often on the calendar. There is also easy access to the museums, sporting events, the Bronx Zoo and much more.

At home, Five Star-Yonkers residents enjoy restaurant-style dining with celebrity chef-inspired cuisine, social and recreational activities such as themed parties, book clubs and planned trips. The senior living community also features the

award-winning Bridge to Recovery program, a Montessori-based approach to memory care that is specially designed to enhance engagement and quality of life for all residents. With so much to do at home and close-by in the hub of New York City, Five Star- Yonkers offers something for everyone.

Who is the typical Five Star-Yonkers resident? Executive Director Wendy Palmiero says that a majority of Five StarYonkers residents have returned to New York after living elsewhere. “Most our residents are native to the greater New York area and have moved back here from other states to retire. There is something about coming home that is appealing and here at Five Star-Yonkers, we cater to that high quality New York debonair: perfection and nothing less.”

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About Five Star Premier Residences of Yonkers Five Star Quality Care, Inc., a national healthcare and senior living provider headquartered in Newton, Massachusetts, proudly offers the highest quality service and care with the warmth and hospitality of home. The Assisted Living Federation of America (ALFA) has awarded Five Star Senior Living many of its prestigious Best of the Best Awards, a national recognition reserved for the nation's most innovative and effective senior living programs. Five Star Premier Residences of Yonkers is located at 537 Riverdale Avenue, Yonkers, NY 10705. For more information, visit www.fivestarpremieryonkers.com; (914) 709-1234. Or, visit www.fivestarseniorliving.com

A F I V E S TA R I N D E P E N D E N T, A S S I S T E D L I V I N G A N D M E M O R Y C A R E C O M M U N I T Y

COME HOME TO A VIEW THAT NEVER GETS OLD

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ere’s our view on senior living: you shouldn’t have to spend your life’s savings on a comfortable, fulfilling lifestyle. At Five Star Premier Residences, this includes million-dollar, Hudson River views, fine dining and exceptional amenities every day along with entertainment and activities to fill the busiest of social calendars.

Hudson River Prices You Can Live With • No buy-in fee required • Close to NYC and cultural attractions • Diverse activity programming • State-of-the-art Wellness Center • New in-house physical therapy department

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PAGE 8

February, 2015

Boomers & Beyond - Westchester

Stress Management Don’t Lets Stress Take a Toll on Your Health Everyone feels stress in different ways and reacts to it in different ways.

How much stress you experience and how you react to it can lead to a wide variety of health problems — and that’s why it’s critical to know what you can do about it.

Negative self-talk increases stress. Positive self-talk helps you calm down and control stress.

With practice, you can learn to turn negative thoughts into positive ones. To help you feel better, practice positive self-talk every day — in the car, at your desk, before you go to bed or whenever you notice negative thoughts.

What's the link between chronic stress and heart disease?

More research is needed to determine how stress contributes to heart disease — the leading killer of Americans. But stress may affect behaviors and factors that increase heart disease risk: high blood pressure and cholesterol levels, smoking, physical inactivity and overeating. Some people may choose to drink too much alcohol or smoke cigarettes to “manage” their chronic stress, however these habits can increase blood pressure and may damage artery walls.

And your body's response to stress may be a headache, back strain, or stomach pains. Stress can also zap your energy, wreak havoc on your sleep and make you feel cranky, forgetful and out of control.

Try These Emergency Stress Stoppers There are many stressful situations — at work, at home, on the road and in public places. We may feel stress because of poor communication, too much work and everyday hassles like standing in line. Emergency stress stoppers help you deal with stress on the spot.

Try these emergency stress stoppers. You may need different stress stoppers for different situations and sometimes it helps to combine them.

Does chronic stress cause high blood pressure?

Chronic stress has not been shown to directly cause high blood pressure, but it can lead to unhealthy lifestyle choices that are associated with high blood pressure. While the exact causes of high blood pressure are unknown, contributing factors include being overweight, eating too much sodium (salt), lack of physical activity and drinking too much alcohol.

Chronic stress can take a physical toll on you. It can weaken your immune system and cause uncomfortable physical symptoms like headache and stomach problems.

How do I know if I need a stress management class?

Stress management classes can help you learn to handle your stress, especially if you have a "Type A" personality (constantly rushing, angry, hostile or competitive) or if your stress is nonstop. Stress management classes can be found at community colleges, rehab programs, in hospitals or by calling a therapist in your community. Classes normally last for 10 to 12 weeks and offer many techniques to help you.

Positive Self-Talk Self-talk is one way to deal with stress. We all talk to ourselves; sometimes we talk out loud but usually we keep self-talk in our heads. Self-talk can be positive ("I can do this" or "Things will work out" or “I’ll do the best I can.”) or negative ("I'll never get well" or "I'm so stupid" or “Everything is going wrong.”).

• • • • • • •

Count to 10 before you speak.

Take three to five deep breaths.

Walk away from the stressful situation, and say you'll handle it later.

Go for a walk.

Don't be afraid to say "I'm sorry" if you make a mistake.

Set your watch five to 10 minutes ahead to avoid the stress of being late.

Break down big problems into smaller parts. For example, answer one letter or phone call per day, instead of dealing with everything at once.

• Drive in the slow lane or avoid busy roads to help you stay calm while driving.

• Smell a rose, hug a loved one or smile at your neighbor.

• Consider meditation or prayer to break the negative cycle. source: American Heart Association Go Red For Women.

A&J Home Care, Inc. A name that families have learned to trust with the care of their loved ones.

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Boomers & Beyond - Westchester February, 2015

PAGE 9

Bethel Homes and Services offers Everything from Soup to Nuts!

When we hear the term, “everything from soup to nuts,” we understand that anything we could possibly want is available to us in just one location. Convenience and choice it doesn’t’ get much better than that!

As the only not-for-profit, full continuum of care in Northern Westchester, Bethel Homes and Services offers seniors, and the community, the same one-stop shopping – not for eggs or sweatshirts, but for all things healthcare and housing.

Located on two campuses in Croton-onHudson and Ossining, Bethel’s continuum offers a complete range of services to help seniors at all levels of need, from minimal to maximum assistance. We can provide community services for seniors who are primarily independent, housing for seniors preferring the security of being in a community setting, short-term rehabilitation for post-op surgeries and reconditioning and, of course, long-term care for those who need around the clock care and supervision.

Once a person enters our continuum they can move from program to program, as deemed appropriate for their needs, with minimal disruption, as they have already become familiar with the Bethel community.

Whether they are in several programs simultaneously, or one at a time, Bethel’s continuum makes it possible for residents to easily navigate, and receive, the services they need. This provides peace of mind for the resident and for their families.

Specifically, Bethel offers an Adult Day Services program (medical and social models) for seniors who would otherwise be alone during the day. Nutritious meals and interactive programs provide an opportunity

for socialization and supervision for those who really should not be alone while their families are at work during the day. Medical services, personal care and transportation are available as well. The program runs Monday through Saturday from 8 am – 4 pm.

Bethel also provides Home Care to the community via its Certified Home Health Agency and Licensed Home Care Services Agency. These two programs work together to provide clinical and personal care services to seniors in Westchester, Putnam, Manhattan, Bronx and Queens, thus allowing seniors to remain independent and safe in their homes for as long as possible.

For those who are independent, but ready to downsize, Bethel offers The Pines, a 50 unit residence with rents starting at $1000.

Three meals a day, weekly housekeeping and organized outings can be added if residents opt for a full service package.

Seniors needing a little more help find peace of mind at The Springvale Inn, Bethel’s Assisted Senior Living Residence.

Services here include a clinician 24/7 as well as a heated, indoor pool, a computer library, a vigorous recreation program, outings, onsite events and so much more. The Inn’s affordability remains a popular feature when compared to area assisted living residences.

For seniors and all members of the community, Bethel offers sub-acute rehabilitation at both of its skilled nursing and rehabilitation centers. Patients needing post-op therapy or reconditioning/strengthening from an illness, can receive the care they need to restore them to maximum function and back to their jobs, families and communities.

And, of course, for the senior who needs care 24/7, our long-term programs provide all the services necessary to ensure quality of life experiences from physician oversight to beauty parlor visits!

The benefit of the continuum is best demonstrated when our residents move from one program to another as their needs change. For example, one of The Pines’ residents may have a surgery which requires a short-term inpatient stay for rehabilitation. They will be discharged from the hospital to our skilled nursing and rehabilitation center for the needed short-term therapy. When it is time for them to return home (The Pines) our Home Care program staff will provide them with in home care and services, if prescribed, to help them return to full independence.

All the while, administrators and staff from each of the programs are conferring regarding the patient’s progress. Because they are part of the continuum, there is a heightened awareness of their status as everyone works to ensure they are receiving the needed level of care.

A Continuum of Care can readily provide a variety of services in one location, similar to the “soup to nuts” approach, and thus provide a unique opportunity for residents and seniors to get all the care they need from one community of diverse care and housing options. In addition, Bethel’s not-for-profit status also means that these services are provided at a more affordable cost.

For more information, please call 914-739-6700.

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Friends, Ms. Mary Jane Lowder (left), a resident of The Pines, and Ms. Anita Holmes, a resident of Bethel’s Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, had an opportunity to shop together during Bethel’s Annual Mother’s Day Market Place at the Croton-on-Hudson campus. Inter-Campus transportation is provided for the residents of Bethel’s Continuum of Care who wish to participate in each other’s events throughout the year.

Ossining & Croton-on-Hudson info@bethelwell.org

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PAGE 10

February, 2015

Boomers & Beyond - Westchester

Get this: Seniors who jog can walk like 20-somethings, according to study Adults over age 65 who run at least 30 minutes three times per week are less likely to experience age-related physical decline in walking efficiency than those who walk, according to a small new study by researchers at Humboldt State University and the University of Colorado in the US. For those who jog, walking comes at a lower "metabolic cost,"-- the scientific expression for saying it's easier -- which not only makes life easier but also preserves one's ability to walk.

This is important, they say, because decline in walking ability through gait changes due to poor posture or high metabolic cost of the effort is a key predictor of morbidity in older adults.

"What we found is that older adults who regularly participate in high aerobic activities -- running in particular -- have what we call a lower metabolic cost of walking than older,

sedentary adults," says Justus Ortega, a Kinesiology Professor at Humboldt State and director of HSU's Biomechanics Lab. "In fact, their metabolic cost of walking is similar to young adults in their 20s."

In the study, Dr. Ortega and his team worked with 15 joggers over the age of 65 who claimed to run at least 30 minutes per day, three times per week. They also worked with 15 seniors who claimed to walk three times per week for 30 minutes.

Researchers asked participants to walk on a treadmill at three speeds (1.6, 2.8 and 3.9 miles per hour) and measured their oxygen consumption and carbon dioxide production.

The joggers were seven to 10 percent more efficient at walking than the exercise walkers, and their metabolic cost was similar to that of 20-somethings -- due, the team speculates, to healthier mitochondria in the muscles.

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Boomers & Beyond - Westchester February, 2015

PAGE 11

Fight Stress with Healthy Habits Healthy habits can protect you from the harmful effects of stress.

Here are 10 positive healthy habits you may want to develop.

8. Get organized.

Use "to do" lists to help you focus on your most important tasks. Approach big tasks one step at a time.

For example, start by organizing just one part of your life — your car, desk, kitchen, closet, cupboard or drawer.

9. Practice giving back.

Volunteer your time or spend time helping out a friend. Helping others helps you.

10. Try not to worry.

The world won't end if your grass isn't mowed or your kitchen isn't cleaned. You may need to do these things, but right now might not be the right time. source: American Heart Association Go Red For Women.

1. Talk with family and friends.

A daily dose of friendship is great medicine. Call or writer friends and family to share your feelings, hopes and joys and ask them to share theirs.

2. Engage in daily physical activity.

Regular physical activity can relieve mental and physical tension. Physically active adults have lower risk of depression and loss of mental functioning. Physical activity can be a great source of pleasure, too. Try walking, swimming, biking or dancing every day.

3. Embrace the things you are able to change.

While we may not be able to do some of the things we once enjoyed, we are never too old to learn a new skill, work toward a goal, or love and help others.

4. Remember to laugh.

Laughter makes us feel good. Don't be afraid to laugh out loud at a joke, a funny movie or a comic strip, even when we're alone.

5. Give up the bad habits.

Too much alcohol, cigarettes or caffeine can increase blood pressure. If you smoke, decide to quit now. If you do drink alcohol, do so in moderation.

6. Slow down.

Try to "pace" instead of "race." Plan ahead and allow enough time to get the most important things done without having to rush.

7. Get enough sleep.

Try to get six to eight hours of sleep each night. If you can't sleep, take steps to help reduce stress and depression.

Physical activity also may improve the quality of sleep.

PAGE 12

February, 2015

Boomers & Beyond - Westchester

Three great activities for Valentine’s Day If you're looking to spend Valentine’s Day with someone really special, consider bringing a bit of happiness to an elder. You’ll find that you get much back than you give!

Low key dance: One of your senior citizen is harthe best ways to celebrate boring. This activity not Valentine’s Day with seniors only is creative, but you is to throw a dance. You don’t have to do anything too enthusiastic, but some light decorations and good old tunes can really make for a fantastic evening. Asking a senior to dance with them can certainly make their day.

Play some cards: If you are looking for something fun to do with a group of seniors then you should try playing a game of cards. Cards can be fun for people of all ages, and will probably put a smile on the faces of the seniors you are working with.

Watch a classic romance movie: One great activity that you can do with seniors on Valentine’s Day is watch a classic romance movie. You can help bring back some great memories with films that they grew up with. In order to make sure you get a favorite film, take some time to talk with the seniors beforehand and ask them what movies they like most.

Get creative: Pick up some art supplies, such as watercolors, crayons, or colored pencils and see what hidden talents

might be surprised at the conversation that flows over water, paint and paper.

Boomers & Beyond - Westchester February, 2015

PAGE 13

Five tips for helping a loved one adjust to a retirement community It can be tricky to know how to get Mom or Dad comfortable with living in a retirement community. Though you looked at plenty of senior communities and finally settled on the ideal fit, moving in will take adjusting. Consider these tips to help your loved one adjust to his or her new living situation.

Encourage older adults Place some confidence in your loved ones after moving in.

They'll most likely be intimidated and unsure how to act. Inspire them to be social and make friends, noting that there are plenty of seniors their age in the community. Making friends can make an unfamiliar place seem like home. Tell them to ask questions if they're unsure of something or curious about some of the community's activities. Most importantly, remind them to be open-minded constantly. At first, they might be

nervous and judgmental of others or the environment. Note that this transition is a big change, and with it requires an open mind.

Prepare them There are a few ways you can prepare a loved one for transitioning into a retirement community. Help them pack everything they will need and go over the community's rules, and the layout of the campus.

Note when meal times are and where areas like the bathroom are.

Make it feel like home Be sure to bring along items from home to warm the place up. Curtains from the family room, a familiar blanket or just some family photos can make his or her room feel a lot warmer. If they're feeling lonely, they can look at these items and feel better.

Don't feel guilty Caregivers shouldn't feel ashamed for putting their loved ones in a retirement community.

These communities promote socializing and medical assistance if needed.

Keep in contact with them It's important to keep a regular line of communication between loved ones and caregivers. Constantly get updates on their daily activities and health from them and the assisted living staff.

Regularly visit when you can,

until you know they're more comfortable. However, don't smother them. If they begin to rely on you too much, they won't reach out to their community or make friends. Give them time to meet new people and become comfortable with the staff.

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(914) 636-2800

ATTORNEYS AT LAW Many Years of Experience Protecting the Legal Interests of the Elderly & Special Needs Populations

Why should I spend money hiring attorneys to do asset protection planning for me and my loved ones?

Currently, the monthly cost for nursing home care in New York ranges between $10,000-$15,000, and properly certified home health attendants (nurse aides) can cost as much or more for round- the-clock home care. Statistically, it is likely that most people will need either or both of these care options as they grow older. It is critical that you plan appropriately to best minimize the strain that elder care costs may have on your estate, and to help put you in the best position possible to qualify for benefits that are largely covered by the government, under Medicare or Medicaid.

Our firm has attorneys with extensive experience in developing tax-effective action plans for our clients that help protect their assets from government imposition. We have also been very successful in negotiating the complex bureaucratic minefield in which Medicaid is now mired. We have achieved remarkable results for our clients on a host of Medicaid related issues, from obtaining Medicaid approvals for coverage of home care and institutional care benefits, to very accommodative resolutions of Medicaid spousal recovery claims, where the office of Medicaid aggressively pursues the non-institutionalized (i.e., or “community”) spouse for Medicaid benefits provided.

Why should I have a lawyer prepare my will?

If you die without a Will, the law, not you, determines how your assets are divided and to whom they are given. A poorly drafted Will may result in a sizeable chunk of your assets not ending up where you want them to go. We are an experienced law firm that can expertly craft your will to address your long-term care, tax, estate planning, and asset protection planning issues. It is in your best interest that planning be done properly so as to minimize the tax burden on your estate.

Our experience and skill in the fields of Trusts, Wills, and Estates enables our firm to uniquely tailor estate planning to your individual needs. We will review your entire estate and draft a personalized plan that will best direct the disposition of your assets after death, whether through your Will, or by means of testamentary substitutes (trusts, joint-asset ownership with right of survivorship, or by beneficiary designation in life insurance policies, annuities, or individual retirement accounts).

My father is having difficulty caring for himself. I am afraid he will no longer be able to live on his own. I am worried about finding the money to pay for his care, whether he stays at home or moves to an assisted living facility or nursing home. What do I do?

Your concerns are certainly daunting, and heart-rending. Our firm offers you a caring hand, an open ear, and uncompromising professional competence, and commitment. We will help find for you solutions that best suit your needs, using the latest tax, trust, and other asset protection strategies available under the law.

Westchester Financial Center 50 Main Street, Suite #1275 White Plains, NY 10606 Email: Info@ejrosenlaw.com

Tel: (914) 816-2900 www.ejrosenlaw.com ELDER LAW

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The law firm of Ely J. Rosenzveig & Associates, P.C. practices in all aspects of elder law, including trust and estate planning, administration, and litigation, tax counsel, asset protection and special needs planning, Medicaid, Medicare, and Social Security disability benefits, guardianships, long term care planning, spousal recovery claims, and Medicaid lien resolutions.

TRUSTS & ESTATES

Attorney advertising • Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome

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Boomers & Beyond - Westchester

February, 2015

PAGE 15

Great food and drink gift ideas for your senior loved one on Valentine’s Day Aging parents and grandparents welcome something special to please their taste buds, especially on Valentine’s Day. Hint, hint.

Especially if they no longer drive, have less money for luxuries or just enjoy indulging.

That’s why serious indulgences (things they probably wouldn’t buy for themselves) make perfect Valentine’s Day gifts.

Here are some ideas: Cookies Who doesn’t like home-made cookies?! How about baking your senior loved one an assortment of cookies? Or buy bakery cookies. Breakfast pastries and coffee cakes are additional suggestions–freshly baked or frozen. Individual pies, small cakes, cupcakes, decorated for Valentine’s Day, are always a hit.

Jams and jellies Jams and jellies in little jars are welcome gifts for those living alone. There’s variety and they won’t get old as quickly.

Fruit baskets Think red fruits (strawberries, apples), combined with purple and green grapes and possibly more exotic fruits (kiwis, mango), bananas, tangerines and/or a pineapple plus dried fruits and packages of nuts. You can order one or put the fruit basket together yourself.

Caregivers are licensed & bonded • Home Health Aides • Personal Care Aides • 24 hour Live-In Aides • RNs & LPNs

Beverage options are unlimited Gifting bottles of flavored waters serves two purposes: older people often don’t drink enough (they don’t feel thirst as younger people do); they taste good and are good for hydration.

Especially if parents take pills, we know drinking lots of water is important.

In addition, hot chocolate mix in a can makes a wonderful, comfort food gift. A fine bottle of wine or liquor, case or 6-pack of beer (micro-brew?) are other options.

Tea Canisters or boxes are always popular with tea drinkers.

Starbuck’s VIA coffee packets are handy and pricey (Costco has packaged the Columbia coffee single servings in many VIA packets [can’t remember how many] for around $15–$16– no doubt a good buy). Older people may hesitate to buy these “luxuries” for themselves. Both tea bag packets and Via packets can be incorporated into a Valentine–so can gift cards.

Candy Who doesn’t love candy on Valentine’s Day? This is something your favorite senior loved one(s) might not buy themselves.

Compassionate, comprehensive & customized services • Medication Management • Escort to and from Appointments • Bathing Services • Companions/Sitters • Grocery Shopping/Errands 24 Hour Emergency On-Call Service Private pay, Medicaid & Most Long Term Care insurance accepted

Serving Westchester County since 1983

914-949-3112 148 Hamilton Ave., White Plains, NY 10601 www.neighborshomecareservices.com

A Program of

PAGE 16

February, 2015

Boomers & Beyond - Westchester

Survey finds the fittest cities for boomers In the past, older Americans may have accepted weight gain and reduced mobility as part of aging, but not so for baby boomers.

As part of the Fit After 50 campaign, the American Physical Therapy Association and MoveForwardPT.com named the Top 10 Fittest Baby Boomer Cities in America.

Where does your city fall?

The survey “examined the top 50 metropolitan areas in the U.S. to determine which cities were best suited to helping baby boomers stay healthy and fit as they age,” said Erin Wendel, senior media relations specialist with the American Physical Therapy Association. Criteria included life expectancy, cardiovascular health and stress levels of boomers, as well as local health care and fitness resources.

The fittest cities are: 1. San Jose, Calif.

2. Minneapolis 3. San Francisco 4. Denver 5. Boston 6. Salt Lake City 7. Washington, D.C. 8. Seattle 9. San Diego 10. Raleigh, N.C. It seems where you live really can affect your health.

“Boomers who live in the fittest baby boomer cities have access to a variety of resources that can have a distinct impact on their health, but they only make a difference if they are used,” said Wendel.

The survey found significant differences between the fittest and least fit cities -- Louisville, Ky., ranked No. 50.

“The largest differences we saw between one and 50 were the percentage of people diagnosed with hypertension (47.3 percent in San Jose and 63.4 percent in Louisville, a difference of more than 16 percent); life expectancy (82.48 years in San Jose and 77.03 years in Louisville, a difference of more than five years); and the percentage of people ages 50-65 with health insurance (91.8 percent in San Jose and 85.1 percent in Louisville, a difference of 6.7 percent),” Wendel said.

The fittest cities allow boomers the opportunity to keep moving as they age.

“Parks, gyms and mass transit options in a city offer the opportunity for baby boomers to stay in motion, which physical therapists will tell you is the best way to stay young and fit,” Wendel said.

Schnurmacher Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing is there... when you need a little more help to get you home. · Short Term Rehabilitation · Subacute Medical Services · Skilled Nursing Care · Music Therapy

Schnurmacher and Burke Rehabilitation Hospital Working together to provide excellent rehabilitative care

12 Tibbits Avenue White Plains, NY 10606 914-287-7200 Schnurmacher.org

Boomers & Beyond - Westchester February, 2015

PAGE 17

Saving money doesn’t stop with retirement You go through your working life with the notion that you have to keep saving up for retirement so that when you leave the workforce, you will be able to live comfortably.

However, that narrative is somewhat incomplete, as it implies that once you hit retirement, your saving is essentially done. The reality is that, especially today, that's simply not true. Saving is a constant task that doesn't stop with retirement: It's an essential part of enjoying post-retirement living. Here are some things to keep in mind when it comes to retirement savings - and beyond.

Your expenses will be different than they were while you were working Some of the biggest expenses you'd faced as a working adult housing, transportation and child-raising costs - become relative non-issues once you enter the world of retirement. Because you're no longer tied to a specific location through work, you can live wherever you want, including an area of the country with cheaper housing. Additionally, retirement communities can offer a cost-effective housing option for those seniors who want to retain that important aspect of community living.

Make best friends with your budget Creating and maintaining a budget is one of the most fundamental pieces of advice for those who want to save money especially once you enter retirement. You'll need to make extra sure you plan your budget proactively. Don't just look at what you spent at the end of the month - instead, plan out ahead which expenses need to be covered so you can get the most accurate estimate of how much you'll be spending over the month.

Make your taxes work for you The good news for retirees is that tax law can actually be beneficial to seniors who do their homework. There are a number of discounts and deductions that seniors may be eligible for.

Whether it's tax exemption on your investment contributions, or additional deduction allowances for health care-related spending, it can be beneficial to go over your available options with an accountant, or another professional who will be able to help you navigate the otherwise difficult waters of tax law to help you find some spare cash.

Circumvent your biggest expenses, if possible Speaking of health care spending, it represents one of the largest single expenses faced by retirees in the U.S. Even with

Medicare and other governmentfunded insurance programs, FindLaw estimated that roughly 30 percent of senior income will go to health care expenses in retirement. Time Money outlined a unique way some seniors are getting around this expense - by retiring overseas. In fact, according to the source, around 550,000 U.S. seniors choose to live out their retirement abroad.

Since a variety of countries offer national health care for all residents, this can prove to be a huge cost-saving undertaking for those who are feeling adventurous in their golden years.

Are You Or Family Members Facing Decisions About Transitional Life Situations For Your Parent?

Are frayed relationships among your children making family discussions and decisions difficult?

We help families reach agreement through discussion rather than confrontation.

This is not therapy. This is an issue oriented process. This is mediation.

Mediation Is About Communication.

Talking Alternatives, a mediation firm, specializes in Elder and Adult Family Mediation and Parent/Teen Mediation.

Talking Alternatives Visit our website: www.talkingalternatives.net or Call us at 646-682-9319

PAGE 18 Anthony Macera, M.A. CCC-A, FAAA NY State Licensed and Certified Audiologist & Hearing Aid Dispenser

February, 2015

Boomers & Beyond - Westchester

A customized hearing healthcare solution will be identified by our New York State licensed and certified audiologist that will address you hearing loss and lifestyle needs. Our digital hearing devices cover the entire spectrum of hearing impairments. They will help you hear and communicate better with those around you.

Most of our hearing devices come with an industry leading 4 Year Warranty. We are, also, one of the only area providers of Lyric, the first and only 100% invisible, extended wear hearing aid (worn up to 3 months!).

So, why don’t you give us a call at 914-253-9160 to schedule your complimentary hearing consultation and begin your journey to hearing like a PRO! Do you ever have difficulty hearing or understanding speech in restaurants?

At parties or family gatherings? Do you feel that people are mumbling all the time? Is the volume on your television creeping up? Is telephone conversation sometimes difficult to understand? If you answered yes to any of these questions, there is a strong possibility that you may have some degree of hearing loss. It has been shown that if a hearing loss is present, a person has to struggle to hear speech.

Undue stress is put on that individual. This stress can have a negative effect on a persons quality of life. It can cause that person to avoid many social situations.

This, in turn, can cause that person to become more isolated. Over the past 15 years Westchester Audiology and Hearing Aid Specialist, P.C. has been helping people hear and communicate better by providing superior healthcare to their patients.

We are excited to announce the arrival of our new standard 4-year warranty!

Our wide selection of styles, capabilities, features and colors ensure that your hearing needs will be met, and our warranty gives you the protection that you deserve.

Anthony Macera, M.A. CCC-A, FAAA NY State Licensed and Certified Audiologist & Hearing Aid Dispenser

Westchester Audiologyand Hearing Aid Specialist p.c.

14 Rye Ridge Plaza, Ste.247, Rye Brook, NY 914-253-9160 www.westchesteraudiology.com &REE 0ARKING s &INANCING !VAILABLE s 0ARLIAMO )TALIANO s (ABLAMOS %SPAĂ—OL

Boomers & Beyond - Westchester February, 2015

PAGE 19

SPECIALIZING IN CARDIOLOGY, INTERNAL MEDICINE AND GASTROENTEROLOGY

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Visit us at one of our locations: 19 Bradhurst Avenue Suite 700 Hawthorne, NY 10532 (914)593-7800

15 North Broadway 2nd Floor White Plains, NY 10601 (914)428-6000

5 Coates Drive Suite 2 Goshen, NY 10924 (845)294-1234

30 Greenridge Avenue Suite 207 White Plains, NY 10605 (914)328-8555

180 East Hartsdale Avenue Suite 1E Hartsdale, NY 10530 (914)725-2010

3 Michael Frey Drive Eastchester, NY 10709 (914)337-3500

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PAGE 20

February, 2015

Boomers & Beyond - Westchester

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