SeniorPlanner
YOUR RETIREMENT GUIDE TO YOUTHFUL LIVING
NOVEMBER 2024
Your Health, Your Priority
Why Annual Physicals Matter More as You Age
By: Charles Power
AS YOU GROW OLDER, your body undergoes countless changes, some subtle and others more pronounced. These changes may go unnoticed for years, especially if you feel healthy. However, much like a car requires regular maintenance to run efficiently, your body benefits immensely from an annual physical. This proactive approach to healthcare becomes increasingly vital with age, ensuring that you stay ahead of potential health issues and maintain a vibrant, independent life.
Annual physicals are not just about treating illness but preventing it. They offer a unique opportunity to establish a baseline for your health, allowing your doctor to monitor gradual changes over time. These subtle shifts could be the first signs of chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, or hypertension — conditions that often develop silently. Early detection means earlier interventions, which can prevent complications, reduce healthcare costs, and improve your overall quality of life.
For seniors, these check-ups often shift focus from general wellness to managing chronic conditions, assessing risks for agerelated diseases, and ensuring that vital
screenings like mammograms, colonoscopies, or bone density tests are up to date. Each aspect of the physical exam is tailored to your specific needs and medical history, making the visit highly personal and impactful.
A standard physical typically involves several key components. Vital signs, including blood pressure and heart rate, are measured to ensure they remain within healthy ranges. Blood tests check for issues like cholesterol imbalances, diabetes, or nutrient deficiencies. Your doctor also tracks changes in weight and body mass index (BMI) to identify risks for conditions such as obesity or malnutrition. The physical exam itself assesses the functionality of your heart, lungs, and other organs, while screenings can help detect early signs of serious diseases like cancer.
One of the most crucial aspects of an annual physical is the conversation with your doctor. This time allows you to share concerns about stress, sleep, diet, or exercise, and to discuss your family medical history. These discussions foster a trusting relationship, empowering your doctor to provide personalized care tailored to your unique lifestyle and health goals.
Despite the clear benefits, many seniors
delay or skip their annual exams. Common reasons include a busy schedule, fear of test results, or a belief that if they feel fine, there’s no need to see a doctor. However, feeling healthy doesn’t always equate to being healthy. Skipping a physical because you feel fine is like neglecting an oil change simply because the car seems to run well. Preventive care ensures that small issues don’t become major problems.
Taking control of your health is one of the most empowering steps you can take. An annual physical is a simple, yet vital way to ensure your body continues to serve you well into your golden years. Make that appointment today — because your health is worth the effort. Like your car, you only get one body. Treat it well, and it will take you far.
Grants Pass PACE Facility to Close
What It Means for the Community
By: Ellen Ward
The AllCare PACE (Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly) facility in Grants Pass, Oregon, is set to close its doors on December 31. This announcement has raised concerns among patients and families who depend on its services. As part of a national program, PACE provides vital medical and social care resources to low-income adults aged 55 and older, allowing them to maintain their independence and continue living at home or in community-based settings.
The closure will affect fewer than 70 participants currently enrolled in the program. These individuals will be transferred to other AllCare Health facilities to ensure the continuity of care. While AllCare PACE’s physical presence in Grants Pass will end, primary care services will still be available through AllCare’s other healthcare providers in the region.
PACE is a unique program designed to integrate medical, social, and supportive services for older adults with chronic health conditions. Services include:
• Primary and specialized medical care.
• Socialization opportunities through organized activities.
• Home care and assistance with daily living.
• Transportation to medical appointments.
• Mental health care and dietary counseling.
These comprehensive services are funded by Medicare, with the goal of reducing the need for nursing home placements. According to AllCare, PACE has been the only program of its kind in Southern Oregon, offering a holistic and communitycentered approach to elder care.
The program’s website describes PACE as a lifeline for many older adults, helping them live with dignity and independence while managing complex health needs. For families, it often represents an alternative to more institutionalized forms of care.
AllCare Health has not provided specific details on why the Grants Pass facility is closing. However, the relatively small enrollment of fewer than 70 participants may be a contributing factor. Running a comprehensive program like PACE can be resource-intensive, and sustainability may hinge on a higher number of enrollees.
This closure reflects broader challenges in elder care
services, particularly in rural areas where access to specialized programs is already limited. With aging populations increasing nationwide, the need for innovative, cost-effective, and accessible care solutions is more pressing than ever.
The immediate concern is how the closure will affect the program’s participants, many of whom have relied on PACE for years. AllCare has stated that it will facilitate a smooth transition for these individuals, ensuring that they continue receiving medical and social support through other facilities. However, for some patients and families, the loss of the familiar environment in Grants Pass may be unsettling.
The closure of the Grants Pass PACE facility highlights the importance of sustaining elder care services, particularly in underserved regions. While AllCare continues to provide healthcare services across Southern Oregon, the loss of the PACE program in this area underscores the ongoing challenges in balancing quality care with operational viability.
For more information about AllCare Health’s services and support options, visit their official website or contact their local office. Families affected by the closure are encouraged to reach out directly to AllCare for assistance with transitions and alternative care plans.
The closure of the Grants Pass PACE facility highlights the importance of sustaining elder care services, particularly in underserved regions ... the loss of the PACE program in this area underscores the ongoing challenges in balancing quality care with operational viability.
Grants Pass Veterans Affairs Office Faces Uncertain Future Amid Funding Challenges
By: John Oliver
THE LOCAL VETERANS AFFAIRS (VA) administration support office, a critical resource for the veteran community in Josephine County, is facing potential funding shortfalls that could significantly impact its operations. Veterans and advocates warn that these cuts could exacerbate already long wait times, reduce access to essential services, and leave local veterans without adequate support.
The VA office in Grants Pass is instrumental in helping veterans navigate the often-complex process of filing claims for benefits, including medical care, disability compensation, and education assistance. However, complaints about long delays and understaffing have plagued the office for years. A proposed reduction in funding and the potential replacement of current leadership with a less qualified individual have raised serious concerns about the future of this critical service.
Veterans and community leaders agree that the office is already struggling to keep up with demand. Reports from local veteran’s detail frustration with months-long delays in processing claims, missed deadlines, and inadequate communication. The dedicated staff currently working at the office have been described as experienced and compassionate, but they are stretched thin, contributing to inefficiencies.
The possibility of financial cuts and leadership changes could compound these problems. If hours are reduced or positions eliminated, veterans may be forced to seek assistance in neighboring towns like Medford or Roseburg, creating additional burdens for those already navigating the challenges of reintegration and recovery.
At the heart of the debate is the potential impact of leadership changes. The current team, led by Lisa Picard, with deep ties to the veteran community, has worked diligently to address existing issues despite limited resources. Replacing them with less experienced personnel could undermine the office’s ability to deliver even basic services effectively.
Leadership in VA offices requires more than administrative skills; it demands a thorough understanding of veterans’ unique challenges and a commitment to advocating for their needs. An unqualified leader could risk further alienating veterans
who rely on these services, eroding trust in the system.
For the estimated thousands of veterans living in Josephine County, the VA office represents a vital lifeline. Many veterans rely on the office for help with claims related to physical injuries, mental health support, and pensions.
Without adequate funding and staffing, these veterans may face insurmountable barriers to accessing the services they’ve earned through their military service. The removal of skilled staff could lead to further inefficiencies, delays, and an overall decline in the quality of care provided.
Local veterans’ advocates are calling for immediate intervention to ensure the Grants Pass VA office receives the resources it needs. Proposals include increasing federal or state funding, improving hiring standards to attract and retain qualified staff, and expanding office hours to address long wait times.
“Our veterans deserve better,” one advocate stated. “This office needs to be strengthened, not weakened. It’s a matter of keeping promises to those who have sacrificed so much for our country.”
The potential funding cuts and leadership shakeups are more than an administrative challenge—they represent a looming crisis for the veterans who depend on the Grants Pass VA office. Ensuring its stability and efficiency should be a priority for all stakeholders.
Navigating 2025 Tax Changes
A Guide for Retirees on Fixed Incomes
By: Gregory Walters
AS 2025 APPROACHES, significant changes to tax policies could affect retirees, particularly those living on fixed incomes. Understanding these changes and preparing them in advance is essential to ensure financial stability and avoid unexpected tax burdens. Here’s what seniors need to know and how they can prepare for potential adjustments to the tax landscape.
Expiration of 2017 Tax Cuts
The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) of 2017, which brought lower tax rates and a nearly doubled standard deduction, is set to expire in 2025 unless Congress acts to extend it. For retirees, this could mean higher tax rates and a reduced standard deduction. For example, single filers may see the standard deduction decrease from its current level of $13,850 to roughly $6,500, based on pre-2017 levels. If Congress does not renew the TCJA, retirees may also experience shifts in tax brackets, potentially increasing the percentage of Social Security benefits subject to taxation. This is a crucial consideration for those relying heavily on Social Security income.
Required Minimum Distributions (RMDs)
Recent legislation, including the SECURE Act 2.0, raised the starting age for RMDs from retirement accounts to 73 in 2023 and 75 in 2033. However, retirees should stay informed about potential changes to these requirements, as tax laws regarding retirement accounts can directly impact taxable income. RMDs are taxable, and higher distributions could push some seniors into higher tax brackets.
Capital Gains and Investment Income
Tax rates on long-term capital gains and qualified dividends are tied to taxable income thresholds. If tax brackets revert to pre-TCJA levels, retirees who rely on investments for income might face higher taxes on profits
and dividends. Seniors should review their investment strategies with a financial advisor to minimize potential impacts.
Steps to Prepare for 2025
Begin by understanding your current taxable income, including Social Security, pensions, retirement account withdrawals, and investment income. Knowing where you stand will help you anticipate how potential changes could affect you.
Consider converting traditional IRAs to Roth IRAs in 2024 to take advantage of the lower tax rates while they last. Roth IRAs allow for tax-free withdrawals in retirement, providing a buffer against future tax increases.
If the standard deduction shrinks, itemizing deductions might become beneficial. Keep records of medical expenses, charitable donations, and other deductible expenses.
Work with a financial advisor to determine a withdrawal strategy that minimizes taxes. Spreading distributions over multiple years can help avoid large taxable amounts in any single year.
Stay informed about developments in tax policy. Advocacy groups and resources like the AARP provide updates specifically tailored to retirees.
Tax preparation and retirement planning can be complex, especially during periods of legislative change. Consulting with a certified public accountant (CPA) or a financial advisor specializing in retirement can help retirees tailor strategies to their unique circumstances.
The upcoming tax changes in 2025 could bring significant challenges for retirees on fixed incomes. By staying informed, reviewing financial strategies, and seeking professional advice, seniors can better navigate these shifts and maintain financial security. Preparing now ensures you can enjoy your retirement years without unnecessary financial stress.
www.grantspassmag.com
Winter Gardening in Southern Oregon
Winter Gardening in Southern Oregon
By: Jasmin Kahlil
WINTER IN SOUTHERN OREGON doesn’t have to mean the end of your gardening adventures. While colder temperatures and shorter days may slow growth, this unique climate still offers plenty of opportunities for cultivating plants, preparing for spring, and getting creative with your outdoor space. Whether you’re growing cool-weather crops or finding alternative ways to enjoy your garden, winter can be one of the most rewarding seasons for gardeners. Here are some ideas to inspire you.
Grow Cool-Weather Crops
Southern Oregon’s mild winters make it possible to grow certain vegetables throughout the colder months. Hardy greens like kale, spinach, and Swiss chard thrive in cooler temperatures and can be harvested well into winter. Root vegetables such as carrots, beets, and radishes also do well when planted in the fall and left to mature during the chilly season.
If you didn’t plant these crops earlier, you can start cold-tolerant seeds in a cold frame or raised bed with frost protection. Row covers, hoop houses, or even an improvised greenhouse using clear plastic can keep the soil warm enough to extend your growing season.
Plant Garlic and Shallots
Winter is the perfect time to plant garlic and shallots. These hardy bulbs thrive when planted in late fall or early winter, using the cold to establish roots before sprouting in spring. Make sure your soil is well-drained and enriched with compost before planting, and you’ll be rewarded with a flavorful harvest next summer.
Prepare Your Soil for Spring
Winter is an excellent time to get your soil in prime condition for spring planting. Spread a layer of organic compost, manure, or mulch over your garden beds to protect the soil from erosion and nutrient loss. Cover crops like clover or vetch can also be sown to enrich the soil and prevent weed growth. Come spring, your soil will be ready for planting.
Prune and Plan
Take advantage of the dormant season to prune your fruit trees, berry bushes, and ornamental shrubs. Removing dead or diseased branches not only improves their appearance but also encourages healthy growth in the spring. Winter is also a great time to plan your garden layout for the upcoming year. Sketch out designs, research companion planting strategies, and order seeds to get a head start on the season.
Get Creative with Hardscaping
If gardening slows down in winter, use the time to enhance your outdoor space with hardscaping projects. Install raised beds, lay down new pathways, or build trellises and arbors. These improvements can add structure and functionality to your garden, making it even more enjoyable in the months ahead.
Bring the Garden Indoors
For those who miss the greenery, consider setting up an indoor garden. Herbs like basil, cilantro, and parsley thrive on sunny windowsills. You can also experiment with growing microgreens, which are nutrient-packed and ready to harvest in just a few weeks.
Create a Winter Wonderland
Finally, don’t underestimate the joy of decorating your garden for winter. Add bird feeders, string lights, or frost-resistant ornaments to make your garden inviting even on the coldest days. Watching birds and wildlife enjoy your space can be a delightful way to stay connected to nature year-round.
With a little planning and creativity, your Southern Oregon garden can be a productive and beautiful retreat throughout the winter months. Embrace the season and make the most of what it has to offer!
Deck the Halls
To Decorate Before or After Thanksgiving?
By: Eddy
AH, THE GREAT HOLIDAY DECORATING DEBATE!
It’s the question that divides neighborhoods, families, and maybe even marriages: When is the right time to pull out the twinkle lights, wreaths, and inflatable reindeer? Should we honor Thanksgiving’s status as the star of November or give ourselves an early dose of holiday cheer? Let’s unwrap this dilemma with equal parts tradition, whimsy, and practicality.
The Case for Early Decorating
For many, the urge to start decorating before Thanksgiving is irresistible. As soon as the Halloween pumpkins turn mushy, it’s “Hello, holly!” Why wait to string lights when you can bask in their glow on those long November evenings? For early decorators, Thanksgiving becomes part of the broader holiday season — a cozy kick-off to Christmas, Hanukkah, or whatever winter festivity you hold dear.
There’s also science backing up early decorating. Studies suggest that holiday decorations can boost happiness, sparking nostalgia and filling your home with the kind of warmth that pumpkin pie alone can’t provide. Plus, with the holiday season feeling shorter every year, why not extend the joy? An early start lets you savor every bauble and bow without rushing to pack it all away come January.
The Case for Waiting
But hold your garlands — Thanksgiving deserves its moment in the spotlight! For purists, early decorating is akin to interrupting a heartfelt toast. They argue that jumping the gun on holiday cheer detracts from the slower, more reflective vibe of Thanksgiving — a day to focus on gratitude, family, and pecan pie (obviously superior to pumpkin, but we digress).
By waiting until after Thanksgiving, you’re giving each holiday its due respect. It’s also practical: fewer weeks of decorations mean less time worrying about rogue pine needles, burned-out bulbs, or neighbors tired of your 24/7 light display. Waiting also lets you ease into the holiday spirit instead of diving headfirst into a tinsel tidal wave.
Creative Compromises
If you’re still torn, why not blend the best of both worlds? Start with subtle, neutral decor that complements Thanksgiving but hints at what’s to come. Think strings of white lights, cinnamon-scented candles, or a wreath that leans more “rustic harvest” than “Santa’s workshop.” After the turkey’s been carved, go full North Pole — swap pumpkins for ornaments, and let Rudolph reign supreme.
Another option is to decorate different areas at different times. Keep the main living spaces Thanksgiving-friendly while sneaking some holiday cheer into a bedroom or outdoor area. This way, you can quietly enjoy your winter wonderland without overshadowing the Pilgrims.
Ultimately, It’s Your Call
Here’s the truth: there’s no wrong time to decorate. Whether your holiday spirit shows up with November’s first chill or you hold off until Black Friday, what matters most is how decorating makes you feel. If you love decking the halls before the cranberry sauce cools, go for it. If you prefer to keep Thanksgiving sacred, that’s just as valid.
The real magic of holiday decorating isn’t in the timing — it’s in the joy it brings. So grab your garlands whenever your heart says “now,” and let the sparkle begin!
VOTE to Recall John West
Committee to Recall John West Announces Successful Certification of Petition Effort
Grants Pass, OR – November 16, 2024 – The Committeeto Recall John West is pleased to announce the successful certification of ourpetition effort. This significant milestone marks a crucial step forward in ourmission to ensure accountability and transparency in our local government.
The certification, confirmed by the Josephine County Clerk,validates the overwhelming support from our community members who have voicedtheir concern over Commissioner West's behavior, which has been described ascruel and corrupt. The petition garnered more than the required number ofsignatures, reflecting the collective will of the citizens of Josephine County.
"We are incredibly grateful to everyone who supportedthis effort," said Lily Morgan, Chief Petitioner for the Committee toRecall John West. "This certification is a testament to the power ofcommunity action and the importance of holding our elected officialsaccountable."
"When caught in a crime, police officers hold peopleaccountable. When caught losing millionsof dollars, ignoring voters’ decisions, and breaking the law, theconstitutional power of a recall petition
is how citizens hold elected officialsaccountable. If you’re not a closepolitical ally of Commissioner West, over the last year you can’t do businesswith Josephine County. Government issupposed to serve everyone and it’s now time for the citizens to have their say"said Jay Meredith, Director of the Committee to Recall John West.
Commissioner John West now has five days to step down orprovide justification for his actions. Should he choose not to step down, arecall election is scheduled for December 17, 2024. This election will givevoters the opportunity to decide on whether Commissioner John West should serveas County Commissioner for the remaining 2 years left in his current term.
The Committee to Recall John West remains committed toproviding transparent information and engaging with the community throughoutthis process.
For more information, please contact: recalljohnwest@gmail.com
Lily Morgan (Chief Petitioner), Jay Meredith (Committee Director) and the entire Committee to Recall John West https://www.recalljohnwest.com/ https://www.facebook.com/recalljohnwest/
RECIPE
Sponsored by
Warm Thanks
Gluten-Free Pacific Northwest Marionberry Cake
For those of you with restrictive diets, or those that simply just prefer to cut gluten we have a delectable solution! Indulge in the vibrant flavors of the Pacific Northwest with our Gluten-Free Marionberry Cake recipe. Bursting with the sweet essence of locally harvested Marionberries, this delightful treat is not only a celebration of the region’s iconic fruit but also a gluten-free delight for those with dietary preferences. Crafted with a tender gluten-free batter and generously studded with plump Marionberries, each bite of this cake offers a taste of the lush landscapes and bountiful orchards of the Pacific Northwest. Follow along as we guide you through creating a moist, flavorful cake crowned with a homemade Marionberry sauce – a dessert that embodies the essence of the region while accommodating a gluten-free lifestyle.
As the autumn leaves fall and the Thanksgiving festivities begin, there’s nothing better than curling up after with a warm, spiced drink to cap off the day. Enter the Thanksgiving Hot Toddy, a cozy cocktail that wraps you in all the flavors of the season. This blend of brandy, cinnamon, honey, and citrus is the perfect way to toast gratitude and family togetherness. Whether you’re hosting guests or savoring a quiet moment after the hustle, this hot toddy is sure to delight.
Thanksgiving Hot Toddy Recipe
INGREDIENTS:
• 1 ½ oz brandy
• 1 tablespoon honey
• ½ oz fresh lemon juice
• 4 oz hot water
• 1 cinnamon stick (plus extra for garnish)
• 2-3 whole cloves
• Optional garnish: orange slice or star anise
INSTRUCTIONS:
1) In a heat-safe mug, add the honey, lemon juice, and brandy. Stir gently to combine.
2) In a small saucepan, heat water until just steaming, but not boiling. Add the cinnamon stick and cloves to the water while heating, allowing the spices to infuse their warmth.
3) Pour the hot spiced water over the honeybrandy mixture in your mug. Stir until the honey is completely dissolved. 4) Garnish with a fresh cinnamon stick and, if desired, an orange slice or star anise for an extra festive touch. 5) Sip and Savor
INSTRUCTIONS:
INGREDIENTS:
• 2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup buttermilk
“At the Grants Pass Gospel Rescue Mission, we are bound to proclaim Jesus Christ to the homeless and needy of Josephine County in a spirit of care by assisting with clothing, spiritual counseling, education, food, healthcare and shelter. We accomplish all this with an attitude of commitment.”
“At the Grants Pass Gospel Rescue Mission, we are bound to proclaim Jesus Christ to the homeless and needy of Josephine County in a spirit of care by assisting with clothing, spiritual counseling, education, food, healthcare and shelter. We accomplish all this with an attitude of commitment.”
• 1½ cups fresh or frozen Marionberries (if using frozen, thaw and drain excess liquid)
• 2 tablespoons gluten-free all-purpose flour (for coating Marionberries)
For the Marionberry Sauce:
• 1½ cups Marionberries
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
This hot toddy is more than a drink — it’s a hug in a mug. The rich, smooth brandy complements the sweetness of honey and the zing of citrus, while the cinnamon and cloves evoke the essence of Thanksgiving. Serve it alongside dessert or take it to the patio for some post-dinner stargazing.
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon water
Cheers to a holiday full of warmth and good company!
1) Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan. In a medium bowl, whisk together the gluten-free all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside. 3) In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. 4) Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract. 5) Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. 6) Toss the Marionberries in 2 tablespoons of gluten-free all-purpose flour to coat them. This helps prevent them from sinking to the bottom of the cake. 7) Gently fold the floured Marionberries into the batter. 8) Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, spreading it evenly. 9) Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. 10) While the cake is baking, prepare the Marionberry sauce. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine Marionberries, granulated sugar, lemon juice, and water. Simmer for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the berries break down and the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and let it cool. 11) Once the cake is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. 12) Drizzle the Marionberry sauce over the cooled cake before serving. Slice and enjoy the delicious taste of the Pacific Northwest in this gluten-free Marionberry cake!
540 SW Foundry St. Grants Pass, OR 97526
