Aging Resources 2023-2024

Look Inside For

202 3 –2024 E D ITI O N • AG IN G RESO U RCES WN C .CO M

• Senior Housing Guide • Home Care & Home Health • Aging in Place • Medicare Help • Caregiver Support • Elder Law & Estate Planning • Resource Directory and More

The Premier Company in Bridging the Gap Between the Elderly and Their Oral Care Needs Senior Oral-Health Services, S.O.S., brings oral care specialists on site to senior living communities, skilled nursing facilities, and individual homes once a week to help maintain the oral health of dependent adults. These oral care services help dependent adults preserve their smile, maintain the ability to eat, and the prevention of cavities and gum disease, lessen mouth pain, reduce the risk for systemic diseases and help improve their overall quality of life.

Contact Us Today to Start Your Service

828.775.2180 • www.sosavl.com • SeniorOralHealth@gmail.com

202 3 –2024 E D ITI O N • AG IN G RESO U RCES WN C .CO M

SUCCESSFUL AGING

SENIOR LIVING

Living Well While Living Longer

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Age in Place with Universal Design

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Lifelong Learning

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How SRES® REALTORS® Can Help

58

Embracing Technology

12

Downsizing

60

Pets and Aging

14

Understanding Different Types of Senior Housing

62

Senior Housing Checklist

72

HEALTHY AGING AND WELLNESS

Maximizing Your Time with Your Doctor

16

Get Moving for Better Health

20

Social Isolation and Mental Health

22

Fall Prevention

26

Hearing Well

30

Living with Dementia

32

INSURANCE AND FINANCES

How to Pay for the Care You Need

80

Avoid Being Scammed

84

Understanding Medicare

88

Medicare Help

90

END-OF-LIFE PLANNING

CAREGIVING AND COMMUNITY HELP

When to Seek Help

36

Transitioning from Driving

38

Community Resources

42

Geriatric Care Managers

47

Home Care and Home Health Care

48

Caring for the Caregiver

54

Planning Ahead for Peace of Mind (Legal Advance Directives)

92

End-of-life Planning

96

Palliative and Hospice Care

98

AGING RESOURCES DIRECTORY

100

FEATURES

What Matters Most to You, Matters to Us

8

Pre-Op Solutions Provides Peace of Mind in Preparation for a Surgical Procedure 17

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Home Care, Home Health and Hospice Providers

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Senior Housing Options

70

Could You Cope With Long-Term Care Costs?

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Strategies for Healthy Aging Proactive Strategies Can Help You Live Well While Living Longer

With people living longer – and healthier – than ever before, our latter years afford us the opportunity for more fulfillment and fun. To focus on healthy aging, consider these lifeenhancing strategies:

1.

Engage your mind and spirit. Stay sharp and mentally enriched by reading and writing, doing puzzles and playing games, taking classes at a community college or online, engaging in arts and crafts, playing and listening to music and traveling — even if just taking short day trips. Seeing and experiencing new things can make you feel youthful. Immersing yourself in a hobby and engaging in lifelong learning not only can help you stay young at heart but can help you remain mentally and physically healthy, too.

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2.

Focus on good nutrition. Make sure your diet includes lots of fresh, nutritionally rich foods and go easy on junk food and fast food. With the advice of your healthcare provider, take supplements to ensure you’re getting enough vitamins and minerals in your diet. Avoid dehydration by drinking plenty of water and other healthy drinks.

3.

Keep moving. In the spirit of the old adage “move it or lose it,” staying physically active can do wonders for your overall health. In addition to building strong bones and muscles to help prevent falls, exercise helps your cardiovascular health and staves off depression. Find types of physical activity that keep you interested and motivate Aging Resources 2023–2024

you to make movement, stretching and strengthening a daily habit. Consider joining a health club or find a buddy to enjoy walks or other exercise with indoors and outside in the fresh air.

4.

Make check-ups a priority. Key to keeping illness and physical problems at bay is having regular screenings and checkups from healthcare providers. In addition to in-person visits, telehealth consultations by phone or video chat are a good option. If and when a physical or mental health change occurs, don’t assume it’s “just part of aging” – get checked out. Symptoms can be signs of treatable illnesses especially when addressed early. Changes with vision and hearing are a common part of growing older but can often be helped easily with the right prescription of

glasses or the appropriate hearing aid.

Because vision and hearing problems can be signs of other health issues and can also affect your balance, make these check-ups a priority.

Dental care becomes more important especially as we age because it can impact our eating and can also affect our heart health. Be sure to take good care of your teeth and see your dentist regularly. If you find yourself dealing with depression, substance abuse or other mental health challenges, don’t delay seeking professional help.

5.

Stay socially connected. Make a concerted effort to keep up with friends and loved ones through regular phone calls, emails, social media platforms like Facebook and in-person visits inside and outside your home. Join recreational clubs continued on next page

A Nurse On Your Side Makes All The Difference When your loved one needs extra care at home, choosing the right caregiver agency can be tough. Let BrightStar Care® make it easier.

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where you can make new acquaintances as well as get involved with new activities and interests. Volunteer your time – by doing so, you’ll not only experience the joy of giving back and having a purpose but you’ll also have opportunities to interact with others.

6.

Combine healthy activities for even more impact. Simultaneously participating in healthy practices gives you even more benefit than just doing them individually. For example, playing an intellectually challenging game with a friend is better than simply doing so alone because you get the perks that come from socializing in addition to flexing your brain muscles. By combining a mentally challenging game with others with physical exercise, too, you reap a positive powerhouse of benefits for your mind, body and spirit.

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VOLUNTEERING RESOURCES

United Way of Asheville and Buncombe County HandsOnAsheville.org United Way of Henderson County LiveUnitedHC.org/Volunteer United Way of Rutherford County UnitedWayofRutherford.org United Way of Haywood County UWHaywood.org Haywood Jackson Volunteer Center HAJAVC.org VolunteerMatch VolunteerMatch.org

Aging Resources 2023–2024

AgingResourcesWNC.com

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What Matters Most to You, Matters Most to Us AdventHealth Age-Friendly Center solidifies commitment to whole-person care for older adults and their caregivers.

The Age-Friendly Center is a facility where older adults with dementia and other complex geriatric conditions can receive specialty medical, behavioral health, and case management services in one place.

Every year the number of people over age 65 living in our region is increasing. As a result, AdventHealth Hendersonville is continuing its commitment to provide whole-person care for older adults that meets what matters to them.

It is also the same place where their caregivers can receive regular health care through their primary and specialty care providers. Caregivers are also able to speak with counselors about the issues they face as they meet the day-to-day needs of their loved ones.

As an older adult, you can count on your AdventHealth care team to focus on the four essentials of care as identified by the Age-Friendly Health Systems Initiative. Our Age-Friendly care identifies and incorporates the 4 Ms of Age-Friendly Care for every patient. We ask what Matters to you for care preferences and health outcome goals. We also review your Medication to make sure it is meeting your needs without impacting your Mentation or cognitive abilities, and Mobility. Your physician will learn about your goals and preferences through the 4 Ms during your conversations at your annual wellness visit each year, and your care team will work with you based on what matters to you.

Meeting the changing care needs of older adults is just part of AdventHealth’s Age-Friendly commitment. We understand that many age-related health issues impact both the patient and their caregivers.

The slow progression of Alzheimer’s Disease for Molly Morgan did more than highlight memory challenges for her. Her children began to feel the impact of the disease on their health and wellness as they worked to meet her changing health needs.

Molly’s family brought her to AdventHealth Geriatrician, Marianna “Tina” Benson, DO. However, Dr. Benson doesn’t limit her care to her patient, she also connects with the patient’s caregivers to support them with resources to make sure their health and wellness doesn’t become an afterthought as they care for their loved one.

To Make It Easy for patients and their caregivers, AdventHealth opened the Age-Friendly Center at AdventHealth Medical Group Multispecialty at Laurel Park.

Kevin is Molly’s son. He explains the impact of the Age-Friendly commitment to caring for the whole family. “It’s empowering.

“I’m a very positive and happy person, but those unknown things – what is next month going to bring, or what is next year going to bring – to have someone to talk about that with – to me that’s empowering because it takes some of the fear away.

It makes me feel safe. It makes me feel like my mom is safe.”

AGE-FRIENDLY CENTER OFFERS: • Board-certified Geriatrician • Geriatric Behavioral Health • Intensive Out-Patient Program – IOP • On-site Physical and Occupational Therapy – PT Solutions • Caregiver Support and Education • Chronic Care Management • Community Resource Coordination AdventHealth Hendersonville is Age-Friendly certified through The Institute for Healthcare Improvement (IHI).

All AdventHealth Medical Group locations in Western North Carolina hold the IHI

Age-Friendly Health System – Committed to Care Excellence designation.

AdventHealthNC.com/AgeFriendly | 855-774-LIFE (5433)

Feel the freedom of whole-person care.

Nap hard. Eat clean. Love big. And start living your best life. Because we’re here to help heal what hurts, ease your mind and lift your spirits with the latest medical innovations and whole-person care. It’s time to take control of your health. It’s time to feel whole.

AdventHealthNC.com

Local Entities Offering Lifelong Learning Lifelong Learning Enriches Mind, Body and Soul

As people live longer, growing older means we often can continue to thrive and enjoy life for many more decades than previous generations experienced.

In the United States, the average life expectancy is 75 years for men and 80 years for women. More people are living to be 85 years old and older, and the number of Americans living to be 100 or older continues to climb.

With more good years – and even decades – ahead, we have the opportunity to continue to learn new things, stay physically active and be socially engaged. And such life enrichment helps us remain healthy and productive in our elder years.

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Lifelong learning and life enrichment feeds and nurtures our physical, intellectual, social and spiritual wellness. Here in Western North Carolina, several institutions offer high-quality, life-enhancing programs for older adults. By their very nature, all of these programs offer opportunities for socialization, volunteering, community building, life planning and networking. They can broaden your world, open your mind to new possibilities for your life and ensure your upcoming years are rich and meaningful.

BLUE RIDGE CENTER FOR LIFELONG LEARNING (BRCLL) (828) 694-1740 | BRCLL.COM Located on Blue Ridge Community College’s Flat Rock campus, Blue Ridge Center for Lifelong Learning offers a full slate of enrichment and Aging Resources 2023–2024

educational programming. Participants can select from courses on a wide variety of topics including US, international and Appalachian history, current affairs, technology, literature and more. The program also hosts occasional brown bag lunches on various topics and has launched a new series called “For Your Health” which brings in various medical professionals to discuss topics related to healthy aging.

There is a one-time lifetime membership fee to receive a catalog of classes three times a year.

LIFE@WESTERN CAROLINA (828) 227-7397 | LIFE.WCU.EDU A program of Western Carolina University, the mission of LIFE@Western is to establish a community of lifelong learners age 50 and older by offering participant-determined topics of interest that promote learning and community-university engagement.

AgingResourcesWNC.com

OSHER LIFELONG LEARNING CENTER AT UNCA ASHEVILLE (828) 251-6140 OLLIASHEVILLE.UNCA.EDU A nationally acclaimed learning community for older adults, the Osher Lifelong Learning Center at UNC Asheville offers opportunities for lifelong learning, leadership, community service and continued growth in a variety of settings. Founded in 1988 as the North Carolina Center for Creative Retirement, OLLI’s programming includes intellectual and cultural pursuits as well as social, physical and practical life courses such as life transition and retirement relocation planning, including its Creative Retirement Exploration Weekend (CREW). OLLI’s College for Seniors (CFS) program offers more than 350 courses in four terms every year, including some online programs.

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Promote Health and Happiness With Various Technological Devices

How Embracing Technology Can Help You Stay Independent

In our 21st-century world, technology is woven into every part of our lives and has become even more important to help people stay connected. For older adults and those caregiving for loved ones, the realm of devices and technological tools that can help with maintaining independence and a good quality of life is growing every day. Libraries, senior centers, colleges and other community facilities often offer related training and helpful information. Here’s a sampling of just some of the many gadgets that can make life easier and more enriching: Tablets and E-readers

With screens that are larger than smartphones 12

and portability that desktop computers lack, tablets – when connected to the Internet through Wi-Fi – can help provide easy access to bank accounts, investments, financial information and health records. They also provide a handy way to surf the Web, order household items, food, meals, medical supplies and more, and stay connected with friends and family through social networking sites like Facebook. These devices also can be used to monitor home-based security systems and view video surveillance footage.

Through video chatting platforms like Zoom, WhatsApp, Skype and Google Hangouts, people can combat loneliness and isolation.

These platforms also help individuals take Aging Resources 2023–2024

care of business with professionals such as medical providers who offer telehealth services. E-readers like Kindles, Kobos and NOOKs are lightweight, have the ability to make words appear larger and can provide virtual libraries of books, magazines and other reading materials at the touch of a fingertip.

Smart Speakers

Like having a virtual assistant who does what you say, smart speakers like the Amazon Echo and Google Home devices also use a Wi-Fi connection to respond to requests for information and more. Users give voice commands to make the devices play music and games, set timers, make lists, get the weather, control connected devices such as thermostats and lights, order products from select retailers, turn televisions on and off and much more.

systems (PERS) – or medical emergency response systems – typically can be carried in a pocket or worn around the neck or wrist and allow the user to call for emergency help with the press of a button. Vital health data such as someone’s heart rate, oxygen levels, blood pressure, blood glucose and more can be measured and collected through wearable health monitoring sensors. Wireless-enabled wearable activity trackers like those made

by Fitbit and Garmin can help measure daily physical fitness, such as steps walked or climbed, sleep quality and heart rate.

Through an ever-growing number of assistive devices, technology can offer life enhancement, peace of mind and help with remaining independent at home with less worry and more fulfillment.

Video Gaming Consoles

By playing video games, you can have fun while flexing your mental muscles, helping your memory, improving your dexterity and stimulating your mind. And in addition to the action, adventure, role-playing, simulation and puzzle genres, there are games that virtually mimic playing sports and doing exercises that can help with maintaining physical activity, balance and strength. Games are also available that allow the player to connect with others online, offering a virtual avenue for additional social interaction.

Healthcare-Related Devices

Medication-dispensing systems can remind users to take their medicine and can send alerts if a dose is missed. Battery-powered devices called personal emergency response

AgingResourcesWNC.com

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Pet Companionship for Older Adults What to Consider When Determining Pet Ownership

Adding a pet to your household can be a wonderful way to combat the loneliness and isolation that sometimes comes with aging.

Pets can fill voids in our lives, giving us joy, companionship and purpose. And while there are many benefits to having a pet, adopting an animal is an important decision with different factors to consider at any age but especially as you get older.

How Pets Are Good For Your Health As we age, our level of interaction with friends and families can dwindle with the relocation or death of loved ones. Bringing a pet into your life can help counter the sadness, anxiety and depression that can come with being alone. Studies have shown 14

that having a pet can help reduce your blood pressure and ease stress. Pets also help fulfill the basic human need for touch and give people happiness through their playfulness and mere presence.

Having an animal gives you a purpose in life beyond just yourself and can help you get your mind off your own issues. The care of a pet that comes, for instance, with taking a dog for a walk or playing with a cat, also can help you stay more physically active. Pet owners – particularly those with dogs they take on walks – often have more social interaction with others, another part of animal companionship that helps counter loneliness.

Aging Resources 2023–2024

Considerations for Older Pet Parents Many pets – particularly dogs and cats – have average lifespans of a decade or more.

Adopting pets is for life – both theirs and yours. As you yourself age, it’s important to think about the impact that potential changes in your health situation and living arrangement may have on an animal companion. If you are adopting as an older adult, make a plan for who will take your animal friend should you no longer be able to give your pet the care he or she needs.

Prior to adoption, assess whether or not you are currently able to take care of a pet’s needs, such as its feeding, grooming, litter box care and other clean-up, daily walks and visits to the veterinarian. Consider enlisting the help of a friend, loved one or someone you can hire to help at times with the care of your animal. Think, too, about the financial cost of having a pet. As pets themselves become elderly, there is the potential that they will have increased healthcare needs which may come with higher costs.

When choosing a pet, give consideration to the size and age of the animal. For example, a large, high-energy puppy has the potential to tug hard on a leash and possibly pull you down. A small kitten can easily get underfoot and could cause you to trip. Younger animals are typically more energetic and require more training and attention. Consider adopting an older, senior pet who may have a calmer demeanor and be more settled into a routine. And while dogs and cats are popular pets, consider other animals such as birds, fish, rabbits and reptiles which can offer companionship, too.

AgingResourcesWNC.com

Keep in mind that just because friends and family members may think you need a pet in your life, the decision – and responsibilities that come with having a pet – are yours alone.

Prior to considering animal adoption, take time to carefully evaluate if having an animal to care for fits with your lifestyle, your physical abilities and your living arrangement.

LOCAL RESOURCES FOR PET ADOPTION Asheville Humane Society AshevilleHumane.org 828-761-2001 Blue Ridge Humane Society BlueRidgeHumane.org 828-692­-2639 Foothills Humane Society FoothillsHumaneSociety.org 828-863-4444 Transylvania Animal Alliance Group TAAGWags.org 828-966-3166 Rutherford County Humane Society RutherfordCountyHumaneSociety.org 828-287-7738 Madison County Animal Shelter MadisonCountyNC.gov/ Animal-Shelter.html 828-649-3190 Yancey Humane Society YanceyHumaneSociety.org 828-682-9510 Haywood County Animal Services HaywoodCountyNC.gov/ 154/Animal-Services 828-456-5338

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Get More Out of Healthcare Provider Appointments How to Make the Most of Your Time with Your Doctor

Time with your doctor can be limited these days. Most primary care physicians see about 20 a day and spend on average 18 minutes with a patient during a typical visit. But with some preparation and planning, you can maximize time with your healthcare provider and get more out of your appointment.

Explore Telehealth Options Many healthcare providers have begun offering more telehealth options to address patient needs. When contacting your healthcare provider, find out if such telehealth options as virtual appointments through online videoconferencing or phone calls are available and if they are a good fit for your particular health situation.

Share Medical Records and Test Results Before Your Visit By making sure your doctor has your previous diagnostic work prior to your visit, your healthcare provider has the opportunity to gain important background information about your medical situation before consulting with you.

Arrive Early but Be Prepared to Wait Arriving about 15 to 20 minutes before your in-person appointment will give you adequate time to fill out paperwork, use the 16

restroom and take care of other check-in items. By getting to the appointment early, you ensure your actual appointment time with your healthcare provider is not taken up with these other tasks. Even if you arrive early, you may still have to wait to see your doctor, so allow yourself plenty of time for the appointment.

Don’t Go Alone Having a friend, loved one or hired advocate with you during an office visit gives you another set of eyes and ears. Ask your companion to take notes or consider asking your healthcare provider if he or she is OK with you making an audio recording of the visit for your future reference. Your appointment buddy can be a good sounding board and also may be able to offer insight to the doctor about any health issues you are having.

Take a List of Your Medicines and Supplements Rather than relying on memory, take a list of your prescription and over-the-counter medications, supplements, vitamins, herbs and nutraceuticals and their dosages. Include how frequently you take them. Bring them in their prescription bottles or store packaging if that’s easier for you. By accurately sharing with your medical provider what medications and supplements you are taking and how much and how frequently you are taking them, you reduce the chances of negative drug interactions.

Summarize Your Medical History Have in hand a summary of your allergies, surgeries, vaccinations, family medical history and diagnosed conditions. continued on page 18 Aging Resources 2023–2024

Pre-Op Solutions Provides Peace of Mind in Preparation for a Surgical Procedure After suffering from osteoarthritis for several years, Margaret’s physician recommended she have a total knee replacement.

Discussing the pros and cons of the surgical procedure, she was eager to find relief from years of pain and decided moving forward was the best option for her.

Margaret and her daughter Amanda reviewed the documents from her physician. Understanding the details of the procedure felt helpful, but also caused a lot of worry and anxiety. While knee replacements are common these days, Margaret knew complications are possible, and it could take up to a year to fully recover. Rehabilitation recommendations included medical equipment such as grab bars, a commode chair, and a shower bench. And what about all the things she would need to complete her activities of daily living?

Margaret was now not only worried about her procedure, but all the things she would have to adjust to comfortably move around her house. Amanda agreed to fly in for her surgery, but would only be able to stay a few days, and Margaret felt worried about what she would do when her daughter had to go back home. She also didn’t want to put too much stress on Amanda to take care of all the preparation details when she arrived.

Luckily, Amanda discovered Pre-Op Solutions - a company whose mission is to improve recovery outcomes by providing safe, pre-operative care and medical equipment rental services. She was able to schedule a consultation with the knowledgeable and dedicated team to discuss the details of Margaret’s upcoming operation.

Pre-Op Solutions was able to deliver, demonstrate, and test-fit the equipment Margaret would need for recovery, ensuring she and Amanda felt comfortable knowing how to use it. The medical equipment rental saved hundreds of dollars, as many

equipment purchases were not covered by her Medicare policy.

The team was also able to assess her home and recommend ways to make sure her rehabilitation spaces were safe and comfortable.

Margaret felt relieved knowing everything was in place to make her recovery as smooth as possible. She had the necessary equipment to support her as she recovered, and she also felt confident she would be able to move around her home with a minimal risk of falling.

Amanda was able to help Margaret get home and comfortable after her operation. A few days later, she was able to return to her own home knowing her mother had everything she needed and people to turn to for help if anything changed.

Not only did Pre-Op Solutions logistically set Margaret up for success, the peace of mind allowed for her and her daughter was priceless.

Scan the QR code to learn more, schedule a FREE phone consultation, or to make an in-home service appointment.

828-398-8680 | Info@Pre-OpSolutions.com

Be Specific and Bring a Written List of Your Medical Concerns Before your visit, write down your health concerns, questions and symptoms and prioritize them in order of their importance to you. Invite input from your loved ones.

Take three copies to your appointment – one for you, one for your physician and one for your health advocate.

Clarify Your Doctor’s Recommendations Ask questions, repeat back what your doctor says and ask for written details about your treatment plan on paper or through your healthcare provider’s secure online patient portal if one is available. Find out if there are warning signs you need to watch for with your condition and possible medication side effects

and interactions. Clarify the next steps about your treatment and find out the best way to reach your physician before, during and after regular office hours if you have questions or concerns.

Stay Positive, Follow Your Healthcare Plan and Pay Attention to Your Body Having a good attitude about your well-being, your healthcare providers and your doctor’s visits helps support your health and wellness.

Follow your treatment plan to maximize results. Don’t wait to report changes in your condition with your provider. Instead of seeing medical appointments as burdensome, embrace the attitude that you are part of a healthcare team that is helping you age well and stay healthy.

There’s no place like home.

Pardee Home Health offers a full range of medical services, including skilled nursing, social services, therapy, disease and medication management, respiratory care, diabetes, wound care, and falls prevention. What’s even better? We provide these services all in the comfort of your own home.

Pardee Home Health Serving Buncombe, Henderson, Polk, Rutherford, and Transylvania

828-692-1846

PARDEEHOSPITAL.ORG

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Aging Resources 2023–2024

Looking for Local Health and Wellness Providers?

Pick up a FREE copy of Healthcare Resources of WNC at one of our 300 locations throughout Hendersonville, Asheville and surrounding areas or search the online directory at HealthcareResourcesWNC.com.

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Staying Physically Active Can Keep You in Better Health How Staying Physically Active Helps As You Age

Exercising at any age has great benefits. As we grow older, staying physically active offers unique rewards, including countering agerelated weight gain, building stronger bones, fighting off diseases, helping with balance and even slowing the aging process itself.

As we age, our bodies typically experience slower metabolism, a loss of muscle and bone mass, a decline in cardiovascular health and a slowdown of reaction times and reflexes.

To attain the most health benefits from physical activity, the U.S. Dept. of Health and Human Services recommends participating in at least 150 minutes – or two-and-a-half hours – of moderate-intensity aerobic activity each week and muscle-strengthening activity at least two days a week.

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“Moving more and sitting less” is key, according to the federal government agency, since increased sedentary behavior is correlated with an increased risk of heart disease, high blood pressure and all causes of death. Fortunately, any type of physical activity – even 10-minute sessions at a time – helps offset these risks.

Ailments that regular physical exercise and strengthening help prevent include many types of cancer, dementia, heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes and depression. Being more active also strengthens bones, lowers the risk of falls and helps combat weight gain.

For older adults, the National Institute on Aging says four types of exercise are especially beneficial: Aging Resources 2023–2024

• Endurance exercises or aerobic activities • Strength or resistance training • Balance training • Flexibility exercises The National Council on Aging recommends exercise routines that blend aerobic exercise, strength and resistance training, and stretching and flexibility exercises. Yoga, pilates, aerobic exercise such as walking, swimming and using a stationary bike are all good choices for older adults. Simple, low-impact strength-training exercises such as wall push-ups, stair climbing, squats and single-leg stands or routines using light hand weights or resistance bands are effective for building muscle and bone strength.

When getting started with an exercise program, the National Institute on Aging recommends the following to be safe and reduce the risk of injury:

AGING AND EXERCISE RESOURCES Healthy Aging NC HealthyAgingNC.com/ External-Programs National Council on Aging NCOA.org/Article/The-PhysicalActivity-Vital-Sign-What-OlderAdults-Should-Know National Institute on Aging NIA.NIH.gov/Health/FourTypes-Exercise-Can-ImproveYour-Health-and-Physical-Ability North Carolina Office of State Human Resources OSHR.NC.gov/State-EmployeeResources/Benefits/ Wellness/Fitness

• Begin slowly with low-intensity exercises.

• Warm up before and cool down afterward.

•P ay attention to your surroundings when exercising outdoors.

•D rink water before, during and afterwards even if you don’t feel thirsty.

• Wear appropriate fitness clothes and shoes.

• I f you have specific health conditions, discuss your exercise and physical activity plan with your healthcare provider.

No matter what you choose to do to stay active, the bottom line is that exercising and working toward being physically strong helps with all aspects of aging and being healthy for years to come.

AgingResourcesWNC.com

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How To Identify and Mediate Social Isolation and Chronic Loneliness Reducing Risk Factors and Ways to Improve Feelings of Loneliness and Isolation

Social isolation is an issue that seniors have had to manage for many years. The COVID-19 pandemic also highlighted how severe this problem is, particularly with older members of society.

Feelings of loneliness can occur and persist even while surrounded by others, and conversely, sometimes people are very content to live alone.

Signs of Chronic Loneliness Include: • Loss of appetite • Reduced activity • Social anxiety • Lack of desire to be around others • Lack of sleep or sleeping too much

• Decline in hygiene • Binging TV or movies • Disorientation and confusion Some Factors Can Increase the Risk of Social Isolation Social anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues can develop in any aging adult as changes in abilities are noticed. Seniors may not have the same desire or capability to attend social gatherings or participate in social activities as they used to.

Elders living far from loved ones may find it difficult to maintain close relationships, and those who require assistance with daily tasks are less likely to be socially active. continued on page 24

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Aging Resources 2023–2024

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Also, seniors who are no longer driving are at risk if dependable replacement transportation is not available.

Patients with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia are also more likely to suffer from social isolation.

Any seniors who are no longer driving are at risk if dependable replacement transportation is not available.

Potential Ripple Effects Consequences of social isolation and chronic loneliness directly affect mental health by causing symptoms ranging from poor sleep to depression, and even rapid cognitive decline.

These problems can also manifest in the body, causing physical symptoms such as decreased

cardiovascular function and immunity.

Isolation and loneliness have been notably linked to high blood pressure and can even put individuals at a higher risk for stroke.

Several Ways to Help Improve Chronic Loneliness Home care services can help with more than activities of daily living. An aide who is a good fit can continue to be a part of a support system, regularly checking in and socializing as well as providing loved ones with a sense of security by knowing a companion is regularly present.

Productive activities like volunteering, group learning, or group fitness programs can boost morale. Local YMCAs have great options for these.

Libraries offer activities, book clubs or discussion groups, or volunteer opportunities that can provide a sense of community and purpose. Reading can also keep the mind sharp, stimulating the brain as well as bringing back memories.

Senior centers are places of support that offer meals, activities, clubs, and exercise, and they are often free of charge. In addition to onsite support, there are often planned group outings such as trips to farmers markets, theaters, museums, or casinos, giving seniors events to look forward to and encouraging an active lifestyle.

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Adult day services can make a difference for those who need increased supervision or care. Seniors who are craving social and mental stimulation, friendships, exercise, or volunteer opportunities can be taken care of Aging Resources 2023–2024

on site while stimulating activities are offered through programs such as Mountain Explorers through Mountain Care Services.

Video calls like Zoom or FaceTime as opposed to text messages, emails, or traditional phone calls have been found to reduce the risk of depression. Any video chatting platform can be simple to use and require little to no setup or cost, making it easy to speak with loved ones face to face at any time. Apps such as Skylight or other photo-sharing platforms make it easy for friends and family to share photos and videos as well.

Meal delivery services such as Meals on Wheels can provide more than just nutrition.

Beneficial social interaction occurs when meals are delivered.

Your local Council on Aging offers a variety of beneficial services, activities, and programs for people over 60 such as food and meal delivery, assistance navigating Medicare, caregiver support, housing repairs, and elder justice.

Taking Action Seniors who stay active and engaged are happier, typically healthier, and likely to live longer. Identifying feelings of loneliness due to social isolation and mediating those as soon as possible can help seniors continue to live socially integrated in different ways, making a significant positive impact on mental and physical health. If one idea is not a good fit, continuing to experiment with other options that may be more suitable is key to finding the best case scenario for this chapter of life.

Psychological therapy is available, and some may offer counseling in a group setting.

Therapy can provide support for transitional times, managing feelings, and discovering enjoyable, meaningful activities within one’s current capabilities.

Having a pet to care for offers immediate companionship as well as opportunities for socialization with other pet owners.

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The Institute on Aging is available to provide emergency verbal assistance to anyone experiencing a crisis situation, as well as offer social interaction in the form of routine conversations during non-emergency situations. They also offer well-being checks, and can provide resources such as information and referrals if needed. Reach the Friendship Line toll free at 800-971-0016.

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Improving Your Health and Home to Prevent Falls

Tips for Reducing the Risk of Falls and Their Consequences

Every 11 seconds, an older adult is treated in the emergency room for a fall and every 19 minutes, an older adult dies from a fall, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

• Wear sturdy, non-slip shoes every day and all the time and clothing that is well-fitted and doesn’t bunch up or drag on the ground.

Falls are the leading cause of fatal injury and the most common cause of nonfatal traumarelated hospital admissions among older adults. But even when no physical injury occurs, experiencing a fall can cause older adults to become worried and then depressed, to suffer decreased confidence and selfesteem and to begin to limit their activities and socialization out of fear – all of which can lead to more falls.

• Be particularly mindful when visiting places outside your home since you may not be as familiar with their layouts.

Falling is not a normal part of aging.

And fortunately, falls can often be prevented with awareness and simple changes around the home.

Prepping Yourself for Fall Prevention As we age, we cannot regain our balance from a stumble as quickly as we once did but we can ensure we stay as alert, strong and flexible as possible to prevent that stumble in the first place.

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• Take your time rather than hurrying, particularly when walking up and down stairs.

• Stay active and walk every day. Consider taking exercise classes, balance classes, yoga or tai chi to build physical strength and improve balance.

• Schedule a doctor’s appointment to discuss fall prevention and be evaluated for conditions that can lead to increased falling, such as cardiovascular issues, arthritis, neuropathy and dementia.

• Have your physician review your medications to ensure interactions do not increase your risk of a fall. For example, tranquilizers, sedatives, antidepressants and over-thecounter medicines can affect your balance.

Aging Resources 2023–2024

and reduced activity. Have your hearing checked and use a hearing aid if one is prescribed.

•B e careful when drinking alcohol since it can impair perception.

• Discuss with your doctor any numbness, aches, foot pain or shortness of breath you experience as you go about your daily routine.

•G et tested for balance, strength and gait.

•B e treated for low blood pressure and vitamin D and calcium deficiencies as all are risk factors for falls.

•E nsure that any eyesight or hearing issues are noted and corrected if possible. Get an eye exam at least once a year and update your glasses as needed. If you wear bifocals or progressive lenses, consider getting a pair with only your distance prescription for outdoor activities, such as walking, because these types of lenses can impact how you judge distances.

• I mpaired hearing can put you at risk for balance issues in addition to isolation

• Bring up any other issues you think may put you at risk for a fall. For instance, if you’ve already suffered a fall, let your doctor know.

• Ask for your overall risk level for falling and for recommendations on how to prevent a fall.

• Talk with your healthcare provider about whether mobility assistance devices such as canes or walkers might help if you have impairments.

• If your physician does not offer such assessments, ask to be referred to a physical therapist to evaluate your balance, strength and gait; see your eye doctor to evaluate your sight; have your hearing checked; and ask your pharmacist to review your medications for any potential interactions. continued on next page

FALLS ARE NOT A NORMAL PART OF AGING As we grow older, it’s natural to experience concerns about falling. However, it’s important to understand that falls are not an inevitable part of aging. At FYZICAL Therapy & Balance Centers, we specialize in fall prevention and helping older adults stay steady on their feet.

FYZICAL offers free Fall Risk Screenings to identify those at risk of falling to prevent future injuries. We believe that balance is core to your wellness.

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Prepping Your Home for Fall Prevention Reducing major risk factors for falling inside your home is easy and inexpensive.

Improve Stairs: Stairways should be clear of clutter, have sturdy handrails on both sides and be well-lit.

Eliminate Clutter: Take a good look around the house and remove anything from the floor that could cause you to trip, such as piles of reading material s or clothes, electric cords, heaters or fans.

Make Your Bathrooms Safer: Be sure floors stay dry. Put non-slip mats in tubs and showers and in front of toilets. Install grab bars in showers , near toilets and anywhere else they could be helpful. Place a seat in the shower or use a transfer bench in the tub.

Secure Rugs: Remove any loose rugs. If you must keep them, secure them to the floor with double-sided tape.

FALL PREVENTION RESOURCES Organizations throughout Western North Carolina and Upstate South Carolina can help you assess your fall risk and assist you in eliminating as much of that risk as possible through classes and training programs.

Resources Include: WNC Fall Prevention Coalition NCFallsPrevention.org/Western-NCFalls-Coalition YMCA of Western North Carolina’s Moving for Better Balance Classes YMCAWNC.org/Moving-Better-Balance Land of Sky Regional Council Programs and Classes LandofSky.org/FallPrevention.html High Country Falls Prevention Coalition HighCountryAging.org/Resources/ Fall-Prevention Healthy Aging NC HealthyAgingNC.com/ A-Matter-of-Balance-Fall-Prevention Fifty Upstate Landrum Aging Well Center FiftyUpstate.org/Centers

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Improve Lighting: Be sure every room in the house – especially high traffic areas and bedrooms – are well lit. Ensure light switches are easily accessible from doorways and not behind furniture or across a room. Install good nightlights in your home, especially from the bedroom to the bathroom. Keep flashlights and fresh batteries in each room of your home, including in your bedroom by your bed.

Evaluate Pet Behavior: If pets are constantly underfoot or are strong enough to pull you over during a walk, you may want to create strategies – such as gates to keep pets off steps or having someone else walk your dog – to keep both you and your pet safe.

Take Precautions Right Outside Your Home: Make sure pathways and entrances are welllit. Install handrails where there are steps.

Have sidewalks regularly pressure washed to eliminate slick spots that build up. Be careful with curbs. Keep your porch, deck, walkways and driveway in good repair and free of leaves, snow, trash, gardening and yard equipment and clutter. Consider non-slip paint on outdoor steps and walkways.

Live On One Level: Consider moving to a home with one floor. If you can’t, take extra care on stairs and try to arrange your life so that climbing steps is kept to a minimum if stairs are challenging for you.

Aging Resources 2023–2024

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Dealing With AgeRelated Hearing Loss Understanding Signs and Consequences of Hearing Loss and its Effects Hearing loss can have serious consequences to your health beyond the frustration of not being able to hear well or at all. It can result in mental health issues, physical health issues and major safety concerns including: •D epression due to isolation; •F aster cognitive decline resulting in dementia due to isolation; •S ignificant increase in the risk of falling due to balance issues;

and the earlier it is discovered, the easier it is to adapt to management techniques, hearing aids or other assistive listening devices.

Hearing aids and other listening devices also have improved greatly over the last decade in function as well as fashion. Signs of agerelated hearing loss include: • Having trouble following a group conversation; • Often thinking people are mumbling;

•D riving impairment due to the inability to hear sirens, horns and other vehicles accelerating;

• Asking people to repeat things;

•P aranoia due to the inability to hear environmental sounds and cues; and

• Having trouble understanding conversations on the phone;

• I ncreased stress from struggling to understand.

• Becoming stressed at or avoiding large gatherings because of difficulty hearing in crowds;

Keeping tabs on the ability to hear is an important part of healthy aging. Age-related hearing loss happens gradually, typically over a decade or more, and often goes unnoticed until it becomes significant. Among people 75 and older in the United States, nearly half have difficulty hearing and about one in three between the ages of 65 and 74 has hearing loss.

Although most hearing loss cannot be reversed, it can often be successfully treated 30

• Having trouble understanding higher voices like those of women and children;

• Ringing in the ears; • Dizziness, loss of balance or vertigo; • Comments from others that your or your loved one’s TV, radio or stereo is loud; and • Ears that itch, hurt or leak fluid.

Other factors that can contribute to hearing loss include a family history of hearing loss, diabetes, heart disease, or circulation or thyroid issues.

Aging Resources 2023–2024

If any of these warning signs describe your or your loved one’s experience, seek medical attention from a physician who will be able to evaluate symptoms and determine whether one or more of the following specialists should be seen: •A n otolaryngologist, a physician specializing in the ears, nose and throat (ENT); •A n audiologist, a healthcare professional who specializes in identifying auditory disorders, treating them with hearing aids or other devices and monitoring hearing issues; or •A hearing instrument specialist, a licensed professional who can test hearing and select and fit hearing aids.

Taking care of hearing issues makes a huge difference in the quality of life, health and the ability to remain independent. Regular hearing check-ups are an important part of aging well.

LEARN MORE National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders NIDCD.NIH.gov/Health/AgeRelated-Hearing-Loss American Speech-LanguageHearing Association ASHA.org/Public/Hearing/ Hearing-Loss-in-Adults To view local hearing resources, turn to page 105.

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Living with Alzheimer’s and other Dementias Identifying and Managing Symptoms of Memory Impairment Disorders

Dementia is difficult for everyone – for the person diagnosed with it, for the family members who become caregivers and even for healthcare providers who do not always have solutions to the many challenging situations this disease can create for patients and their families.

to the point that daily functions become difficult or impossible. Alzheimer’s disease, cerebrovascular disease, Lewy body disease, mixed pathologies, frontotemporal lobar degeneration and Parkinson’s disease are some of the more common causes of dementia.

When confronted with dementia – as a patient or caregiver – the best defense is a good offense. Begin by educating yourself about the disease, treatments and lifestyle practices that can work to slow the disease, behaviors and challenges you can expect as the disease progresses and ways to manage life after a dementia diagnosis with as much joy and dignity as possible.

Although dementia is not a normal part of aging, the biggest risk factor for the disease is age. For example, the majority of people with Alzheimer’s dementia are age 65 or older and about a third of people age 85 or older have Alzheimer’s dementia. Breakthroughs on causes and treatments continue but currently, dementia is progressive and has no cure.

What is Dementia?

Dementia is an umbrella term that covers a multitude of disorders that impair memory

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Dementia Versus Forgetfulness It is easy to confuse the very early signs of dementia with typical memory issues we all experience as we age, but they are different.

Aging Resources 2023–2024

For instance, it is normal to misplace your keys or your glasses. It is not normal – and may be an indicator of dementia – to put your keys or glasses in an unusual place, such as the freezer or in the back of a drawer, and then have no recollection of where you put them.

It is normal to walk into a room in your home and forget your purpose for going there. It is not normal – and may be an indicator of dementia – to walk into a room in your home and for a moment not know where you are.

Difficulty performing once routine mathematical tasks such as balancing your checkbook or adding a column of numbers, or feeling excessively challenged when learning new things such as how to work a new appliance, may also indicate a serious memory disorder.

Get Diagnosed – The Sooner, The Better If you suspect dementia, get a diagnosis from a neurologist who specializes in memory loss and do so as soon as possible. Insist that both the patient and close family members or loved ones are part of the evaluation and are given the opportunity to discuss with the physician what has caused them to suspect dementia.

While most patients are well aware that their ability to process information has changed, a loved one is usually in a better position to recall and give details of specific incidents and behavior changes, giving physicians a more complete picture.

While there currently is no cure for dementia, there are medications and lifestyle practices that can slow the progression of the disease especially when a diagnosis is made early. Also, other conditions, such as depression, stress, poor sleep, hearing loss, vision problems, an underlying infection or other illness can worsen AgingResourcesWNC.com

symptoms. Simply treating these disorders often can return some memory function.

With a diagnosis in hand, a physician is better able to guide the patient and the family as to how to manage symptoms now to maintain the greatest independence and to give all concerned an idea of what to expect for the future.

Make a Plan Although only one member of the family may have dementia, everyone in the family is affected. It makes sense to come together as a family in these early stages and put together a plan of action to care for the patient and manage life as the disease progresses.

As a family, you should decide on roles and responsibilities for everyone who wishes to be part of the care management. Be realistic in your commitments. Dementia is for the long haul. Commit to what you can do and then find resources in the community to help where you and others cannot.

Securing the help of a professional at this point such as a geriatric care manager, a social worker or someone from your local council on aging may be a good idea. These professionals are trained to help you know what to plan for.

They can inform you of support services and various resources in your area, help you weigh your housing options and help you navigate the system overall.

With dementia, moving to an assisted living facility, using adult day care or needing roundthe-clock care — may become necessary as the disease progresses. With a plan, these transitions can become easier financially and emotionally for everyone. continued on next page 33

Tips for Helping Someone with Dementia Being there for someone with dementia can pose challenges but there are approaches that can help, many of which involve being supportive, compassionate and understanding of changes caused by the disease.

Simplify: Talk about one thing at a time, use fewer words and speak slowly. Sharing too much information and multitasking can be confusing and overwhelming. Realize that logic does not apply to an illogical disease.

Let your loved one carry out tasks: Offer to help but also be willing to not help so your loved one has the chance to feel good about accomplishing something on his or her own.

Use memory aids: Lists, signs, dry-erase boards, alarm clocks and calendars can help as can having designated spots for commonly misplaced items.

Be attuned to eyesight and hearing issues: Vision and hearing problems can worsen – and in some cases can mimic – dementia symptoms. Peripheral vision can be lost and perception can change, too, as the disease

Housing Considerations Someone with memory impairment functions better in familiar surroundings. To that end, it is to everyone’s advantage to move the person with dementia into the care situation chosen before rather than after the full force of that care is needed. By making a move before dementia progresses, individuals can make friends, get used to routines and form relationships with staff while they still have the ability to do so.

As you look at living situations, focus on the goal of only moving your loved one only once

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progresses. Make sure your loved one has his or her eyesight and hearing checked regularly, especially if he or she is having trouble with avoiding obstacles, seeing well even when wearing glasses, struggling to follow a conversation or having problems with balance.

Show and tell: Visually communicating with your loved one is as important as talking with him or her so be sure to show and say what you mean. To assist with his or her comprehension, make your loved one’s living space as free as possible of distractions such as visual clutter and noises. Use hand gestures, visual cues and prompts to help convey what you mean.

Go down memory lane: Reminisce about the past by looking at old photographs and mementos and telling stories from days gone by.

Practice patience and kindness: Reassure your loved one and focus on his or her feelings rather than the facts. Apologize and say “I’m sorry” regularly when he or she is frustrated, sad or angry. Respond with affection through smiles and hugs.

if possible. Consider places that offer both assisted and skilled care in the same building or at least on the same campus. If symptoms worsen and skilled nursing becomes necessary, it is healthier for your loved one to be in familiar surroundings with people he or she trusts. Staying put also increases opportunities for independence, reduces your loved one’s fear and makes it easier for friends who live on-site to visit.

Prioritize Support for the Caregivers Part of every plan for dementia care must be to care for the caregivers. This means ensuring

Aging Resources 2023–2024

caregivers don’t overcommit themselves and that their needs and desires also are considered. They should take time to join a support group online or in person for emotional support as well as to gain insight and strategies for managing the disease.

Respite care should be built into the schedule to ensure caregivers have time for rest and for living their own lives.

people with dementia and their caregivers can maintain the highest quality of life possible for as long as possible.

Remember that the care plan is not written in stone. The person with dementia and the caregivers should feel free to change it as circumstances and abilities change. For instance, a caregiver may commit at first to keeping a loved one at home. As the disease progresses or life circumstances change, this may prove to be too stressful for the caregiver.

At that time, the caregiver should feel free to change the plan and find a solution that works better for him or her and the individual receiving care.

For updates about advances in treatment and promising clinical research breakthroughs, visit ALZ.org/Alzheimers-Dementia/ Treatments, ALZ.org/Research and ALZ.org/Help-Support/IHave-ALZ/Treatments-Research.

Advances in Treatment With increased scientific research being devoted to Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia, advances in diagnosis and treatment are occurring more rapidly.

Medications for memory, treatments for sleep changes, strategies for addressing changing behaviors and a host of alternative therapies are improving the quality of life for dementia patients and their loved ones.

You and Your Family are Not Alone Millions of people in the United States have dementia and that number is expected to rise as the population continues to live longer.

There is nothing easy about the often long course of dementia. But with early diagnosis and a proactive approach to management, both

AgingResourcesWNC.com

LEARN MORE For a list of 10 early signs of dementia, visit ALZ.org/ Alzheimers-Dementia/10_Signs

Geriatric Care Managers Find a certified Geriatric Care Manager or Aging Life Care professional at the Aging Life Care Association at AgingLifeCare.org.

Read more about what Geriatric Care Managers do on page 47.

Caring for the Caregiver Find resources and tips for caregivers on page 54.

Local Help Learn about local community resources including Councils on Aging on page 42-46.

Find local help in the Alzheimer’s/Dementia and Caregiving Support sections of the Aging Resources Directory on pages 100-102.

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Determining if a Loved One Needs Assistance Questions to Ask When Evaluating if Help is Needed

Determining exactly when loved ones need help at home can be challenging but answers often can be determined by observing personal appearance, home upkeep and driving abilities. Asking these questions can shed light on how loved ones are feeling and managing daily activities: Personal Appearance and Demeanor •D o they stand up straight or are they bent over? Are they leaning to one side or having trouble with balance?

•A re they maintaining their normal weight?

•D o they appear to be having trouble seeing or hearing?

•W hen walking, is their gait strong?

Or are they shuffling more than stepping?

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• Are they clean and shaved? Are their nails clean? Is their hair combed?

• Are their clothes clean? Are they dressed appropriately for the weather?

• Are their buttons buttoned properly?

Are zippers zipped?

• Do they seem fatigued, sad, frustrated, upset or confused?

• Are there any signs of substance abuse?

Inside the Home • Is the home kept the way it always has been or do you see a change?

• Is the kitchen sink clean? Are beds made and floors swept or vacuumed? Are plants alive?

• Is the garbage taken care of correctly?

Aging Resources 2023–2024

•D oes the pet have food and water?

•A re things that used to be put away now left out?

• I f they take medications, are they stored neatly in a sensible place? Using dates on the bottles, can you tell if they are being taken as prescribed?

• I s mail in an unorganized pile? Are unpaid bills left around? Are checks to pay bills written but never sent?

•D oes the refrigerator have old, spoiled food or not enough food?

•A re the dishes, glasses, and flatware properly put away and clean?

• I s their bedroom, bathroom and closet dirty or unorganized?

Outside the Home •H as regular maintenance been carried out on the outside of the house and on other structures?

•A re the gutters clean? Porches swept?

Windows washed?

• When they drive, do you observe other drivers on the road being annoyed?

• Do you feel afraid when riding with them?

• Do they know where they are going?

• Do they have trouble parking?

• Can they drive safely and confidently at highway speed?

Answers to these questions can serve as indicators of emerging concerns including waning eyesight, hearing problems, issues with movement and walking, depression or other mental health issues, the onset of dementia and more. If you see a pattern of decline, the cause should be determined by a physician to see if any treatments can improve or slow the condition.

As with many issues of aging, there are no hard and fast rules as to when to step in to help. However, if what you have observed leaves you feeling uncomfortable, then trust you have the evidence you need to look into finding necessary support services.

•H as the grass been mowed, the shrubs trimmed and the flowerbeds weeded?

The Car and Driving

HELPFUL RESOURCES

•A re there signs the car has been in minor accidents? Any new dents from running into the garage or another bumper?

Tips about transitioning from driving on page 38.

• I s the car well maintained? What does the change-oil sticker say versus the mileage?

Are the fluids full? Is the registration current?

•W hen you drive with them, can they get in and out of the car with ease?

•D o they drive too slowly? How is their reaction time? Do they tailgate?

AgingResourcesWNC.com

Area Councils on Aging, Geriatric Care Managers and other professionals on pages 42-46.

Home Care and Home Health Care options on page 52.

Aging Resources Directory beginning on page 100.

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Alternative Transportation Considerations When to Approach the Conversation of Transitioning From Driving

Driving a vehicle is an integral part of American life. But aging can bring changes in vision and response times on the road and health conditions and medications can impact the ability to drive. When it appears that driving is becoming more challenging, it may be time to explore next steps and other transportation options to protect the safety and wellbeing of the driver and others on the road.

Talk About Driving Abilities and Transportation Options Start by having a candid conversation about your concerns about you or your loved one’s driving abilities as well as about alternative transportation options. Being kind, calm and empathetic during these discussions is beneficial to everyone involved.

According to a study performed by The Hartford Center for Mature Market Excellence, choosing the best person to initiate the conversation may help. Older drivers may be more receptive to concerns that come from 38

their spouse, doctors, adult children or a close friend.

Broaching the Subject of Ceasing to Drive Because driving is often equated with independence, having a conversation about no longer driving can be a sensitive one. The Hartford’s study showed nearly one-fourth of adults felt depressed after such a conversation, and family members may feel angry, frustrated or guilty for depriving a loved one of the freedom their own driving allows.

However, avoiding a possibly unpleasant conversation is less important than avoiding potential accidents. Approach such a conversation with respect, directness and a focus on safety, including those of passengers, pedestrians and other drivers.

Participating in a formal driving assessment performed by a professional who is not a family member can be useful, as can meeting with a Aging Resources 2023–2024

family physician who may be able to evaluate how health conditions and medications may be impacting driving ability.

• Getting lost in familiar places • Driving too fast or too slow continued on next page

Observe and Evaluate Driving Skills A passenger riding along with a driver can assess driving abilities. While such a ridealong is not a test, it is a way to help figure out if someone is having challenges with driving.

According to the AARP, signs to look for include: • Being easily distracted •H aving a delayed response to unexpected situations • Running lights or stop signs • Clipping the curb •E xhibiting lane drifting or having trouble changing lanes • Misjudging distance

HELPFUL RESOURCES AAA’s SeniorDriving.AAA.com American Occupational Therapy Association’s Driving and Community Mobility AOTA.org/Practice/Clinical-Topics/ Driving-Community-Mobility Medical Driving Evaluation and Training Program UNCHealthBlueRidge.org/MedicalServices/Rehabilitation/MedicalDriving-Evaluation-TrainingProgram

• Showing a loss of driving confidence

AgingResourcesWNC.com

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DMV and Public Transportation Information In North Carolina, motorists age 66 and older are required to renew their driver’s licenses every five years. Others generally must renew their licenses every eight years. Learn more at NCDOT.gov/DMV/License-ID/RenewalReplacement/Pages/Default.aspx.

The N.C. Division of Motor Vehicle’s Medical Review Unit Program also evaluates a driver when there are concerns that certain medical conditions – not age alone – might have an impact on the ability to safely operate a motor vehicle. For more information, visit NCDOT. gov/DMV/License-ID/License-Suspension/ Medical-Review-Program.

In South Carolina, drivers 65 and older must renew their driver’s licenses every five years.

Renewing for 10 years may be possible if the driver is younger than 65. More information can be found at SCDMVonline.com/DriverServices/Renewals.

If there are concerns about a person’s ability to drive, doctors and law enforcement officials can request that a motorist’s driving skills be assessed by a SCDMV examiner.

For details on area public transportation services, turn to the Transportation, Appointments and Errands section of the Aging Resources Directory on page 112.

•H aving trouble moving the foot from the gas to the brake or confusing the two • Being pulled over by the police, having dents and scrapes on the vehicle and being involved with accidents – including fender-benders – also indicate that it may be appropriate to evaluate whether or not to drive The diagnosis of certain medical conditions and/or their necessary associated medications that can impact driving skills may also signal the need for a driving evaluation.

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UNC Health Blue Ridge offers a Medical Driving Evaluation and Training Program at Blue Ridge Therapy. This program uses a combination of an in-clinic and a behind-thewheel evaluation by an occupational therapist who is a certified driving instructor as well as a Certified Driving Rehabilitation Specialist.

These evaluations review medical and driving history and include assessments of physical skills, vehicle seating and driving maneuvers and can help determine the best way to drive and carry different mobility devices if needed.

Strategies to keep driving skills sharp may be discovered.

A formal recommendation is made upon completion. Evaluation results are shared with the client, referring physician and the Department of Motor Vehicles who work together to make the final decision about driving continuation.

Arrange Alternative Transportation In the event that you or a loved one stops driving, discuss transportation needs and set up alternatives for errands, appointments and recreational activities. Family members and friends can create driving schedules and take turns providing regular transportation. Private ride services such as cab companies, Uber and Lyft may be useful as may be public transportation options.

By having alternate transportation plans in place, you or your loved one can continue to live independently without the worry that can come with driving challenges. And while giving up driving is a transition, ceasing to drive does not have to mean disengaging from socializing, running errands or being active in the community.

Aging Resources 2023–2024

Meals on Wheels Meals on Wheels (MOW) utilizes volunteer drivers to deliver lunchtime meals (M-F) for homebound seniors (60+) throughout Henderson County.

This nutritious meal and check-in is vital to the well-being, independence, and socialization of older adults aging in place in our community.

The MOW program is available at no cost to qualifying Henderson County residents.

Caregiver Services Our support staff can assist in accessing available resources and support throughout the community. If you qualify for respite funding, you may be able to receive assistance with costs to cover care.

Thrift Stores It’s a great place to buy at big savings!

All proceeds from our thrift stores directly benefit our programs. Please consider donating gently worn clothing or household goods when cleaning out, redecorating, or moving.

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Resources for Aging Assistance Local Professionals Offer the Help You Need in Your Community

If you’re facing issues related to aging or caregiving and need advice or assistance, help is available through a variety of regional professional resources. Councils on Aging, Area Agencies on Aging, veterans affairs agencies, the N.C. Dept. of Health and Human Services and the South Carolina Department on Aging, geriatric care managers and other resources can all provide helpful information and services.

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Councils on Aging and County Resources Depending on where you live in Western North Carolina or Upstate South Carolina, the Council on Aging or Area Agency on Aging serving the county you live in may offer different services from those in other parts of the region, but they all share the common mission of acting as advocates for elders and providing connections for the assistance you need.

Aging Resources 2023–2024

Council on Aging of Buncombe County The Council on Aging of Buncombe County is an advocate for older adults, providing personal support, assistance and resource coordination to help them stay independent and healthy.

To help older adults receive the services they need, COABC answers questions by phone and helps people complete applications for community-wide services.

COABC offers informational assistance about Medicare and health insurance and also assists older adults with the Affordable Care Act. COABC helps with such issues as minor home repair, transportation resources, elder justice counseling and some homebound food delivery. Minor home repair services focus on reducing fall risks in the home through the installation of grab bars, hand railings and threshold fixes.

COABC partners with a variety of local agencies and connects clients with other assistance in the community, such as help with ramp installations.

For people who can’t drive or use public transportation, COABC has volunteers who take people to doctor’s appointments, grocery shopping and occasional social trips. SThe Senior Dining and Wellness program offers eligible adults the opportunity to receive free hot meals. Monthly food boxes are delivered by volunteers with COABC to at-risk, homebound elders.

Through its Benefits Enrollment Center, COABC provides application assistance for individuals living in Buncombe County who are on Medicare due to disability or age. COABC provides these individuals with assistance with applications for SNAP, Medicaid, Extra Help and Medicare Savings Programs.

COABC assistance with the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) program, a federally funded program that helps qualified individuals with their home heating and cooling costs.

The COABC also has an Elder Justice Navigator who provides information and support for older women and men experiencing abuse, neglect and exploitation.

A separate organization – Meals On Wheels of Asheville and Buncombe County – delivers Meals on Wheels in Buncombe County.

Council on Aging for Henderson County For more than 50 years, the Council on Aging for Henderson County has been providing and coordinating services that engage, connect and support local adults as they age.

COAHC strives to ensure that no one ages alone through programs that include Meals on Wheels (delivery of meals to homebound seniors), congregate dining and activities liquid nutrition, caregiver services, senior companions and community resource coordination. The Council on Aging also offers seasonal services including a heatrelief assistance program and shelf-stable meals for inclement weather. continued on next page

AgingResourcesWNC.com

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Caregiver support specialists are available at COAHC to assist those caring for a loved one with long-term physical or cognitive conditions. The caregiver specialist can assist with accessing available resources and provide ongoing support. Those qualifying for respite care services may be able to receive a grant to assist with covering the costs of in-home services.

COAHC also offers support, advice and guidance related to aging, housing assistance, medical appointments, assisted living options and more.

Polk County Senior Services As part of Polk County’s consolidated human services department, Polk County Senior Services offers drive-thru meal pick-up, Meals on Wheels, educational opportunities, health

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and wellness promotion and recreational activities.

Transylvania County Council on Aging Transylvania County has a Council on Aging as part of its Social Services department.

Its adult services programs offer support to elderly and disabled adults, provide protective services to vulnerable adults and regulate certain residential services.

In Transylvania County, Meals on Wheels of Brevard provides delivered meals to people who are at least 60 years old, homebound and unable to shop or cook. Services are available temporarily for those recovering from illness or injury.

Area Agencies on Aging The Land of Sky Regional Council’s Area

Aging Resources 2023–2024

Agency on Aging covers Buncombe, Henderson, Madison and Transylvania Counties. The Foothills Regional Commission serves as the Area Agency on Aging for Polk and Rutherford Counties, in addition to Cleveland and McDowell. The Southwestern Commission Area Agency on Aging covers Haywood County, as well as Cherokee, Clay, Graham, Jackson, Macon and Swain Counties and the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians. The High Country Area on Aging serves Yancey County in addition to Alleghany, Ashe, Avery, Mitchell, Watauga and Wilkes Counties.

In South Carolina, the Appalachian Council of Governments serves as the Area Agency on Aging for Spartanburg County as well as Anderson, Cherokee, Greenville, Oconee and Pickens Counties.

All of these Area Agencies on Aging are part of a national network of aging agencies established by the federal Older Americans Act. While local Councils on Aging provide direct services, Area Agencies on Aging support older adults living independently through planning, resource development and partnering with Councils on Aging and other organizations.

In addition to being resources for older adults and their caregivers to contact when seeking information about age-related issues, offerings from Area Agencies on Aging can include family caregiver support services, foster grandparent programs, health promotion and disease prevention, longterm care ombudsmen, regional and county continued on next page

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AgingResourcesWNC.com

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aging planning, senior community services employment programs, senior companion programs, information about legislation and resources for people caring for people with dementia.

Veteran-Specific Resources Based in Asheville, the Charles George VA Medical Center provides healthcare and wellness services to US military veterans and their families. In addition to serving veterans’ overall health, the VA Medical Center offers assistance related to geriatrics including​​ extended care rehabilitation, psychogeriatric care, general nursing home care and caregiver support. The VA Medical Center also has a community-based outpatient clinic in Rutherford County.

The North Carolina Dept. of Military and Veterans Affairs provides a system to assist veterans and their families with a variety of issues. The state agency also oversees four skilled care homes for veterans, including one in Black Mountain in Buncombe County.

Through this state agency, Veterans Service Offices also have been established throughout the state for veterans and their families to receive assistance with benefits, claims questions and other issues.

The Veterans Administration operates medical clinics for veterans in Upstate South Carolina, including in Spartanburg and Greenville.

The South Carolina Dept. of Veterans Affairs offers a variety of resources related to claims assistance, health care, mental health, consumer affairs, military service member and family programs and more. Each county

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has a veterans affairs office. South Carolina also has three state veterans nursing homes.

State Agencies Through its Division of Aging and Adult Services, the North Carolina Dept. of Health and Human Services works to promote independence and enhance the dignity of North Carolina's older adults. This state agency includes an Adult Protective Services Division, the work of which is carried out by county Dept. of Social Services (DSS) offices. In South Carolina, the Long Term Care Ombudsman Program, the Vulnerable Adults Investigation Unit of the SOuth Carolina Law Enforcement Division and the Adult Protective Services Program of the Dept. of Social Services investigate allegations of abuse, neglect and exploitation. If you are concerned that an older adult is suffering from abuse, neglect or exploitation, contact your local DSS office. DSS workers can evaluate and help determine if an elderly individual is in need of assistance or protective services.

AGING RESOURCES DIRECTORY Turn to page 100 for more helpful resources in our Aging Resources directory.

Aging Resources 2023–2024

Geriatric Care Managers Also known as Aging Life Care Professionals, geriatric care managers typically possess backgrounds in nursing, social work, elder care, psychology or counseling. Geriatric care managers are qualified health and human services workers who can be hired to offer personalized, holistic assistance and planning for older adults and people with disabilities.

These professionals act as advocates and focus on helping you or your loved one stay independent, healthy and safe.

Geriatric care managers can be especially helpful for caregivers who don’t live near their loved ones. Working with families and caregivers, they use their expertise to assess, problem-solve, plan and monitor older adults’ living and healthcare situations. Examples of the help they can provide include: • Assessing a loved one’s social, emotional and medical status including problems with memory loss and related dementia.

• Interacting with and facilitating communication with a healthcare team.

• Evaluating, recommending and helping coordinate moves to appropriate long-term care housing.

• Supporting and helping loved ones and families cope with care options and concerns and helping them reach a consensus about long-term care planning.

• Connecting with community resources available for older adults.

• Intervening when a crisis occurs such as an emergency room visit and overseeing a hospitalization or rehabilitation stay.

• Reviewing and overseeing bill paying, assisting with insurance companies and working with financial advisors and attorneys.

The Aging Life Care Association offers more information about aging care management as well as an online searchable database for finding a professional in your area at AgingLifeCare.org.

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828-772-4714 ChoiceCareYourWay.com

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Locally Owned In-Home Care Registry Serving WNC, Choice Care Your Way strives to match every client with quality caregivers to achieve perfect compatibility. Owner, Lisa Laney, MSW, has decades of experience in Home Health Care, Palliative Care, Hospice, Dementia, Skilled Nursing Facilities and Professional Care Management, making her uniquely qualified to support individuals and their families who need one on one care.

"I’ve been working with Choice Care Your Way for almost 1 year. They are one of the most compassionate, professional elder care companies I’ve encountered. They treat the caregivers with the same respect and attention as they do their clients. I’d highly recommend their referral service."

– Ana A, ChoiceCare Caregiver

AgingResourcesWNC.com

Lisa Laney, MSW CMC Owner Ramie Thorstad Program Manager Terri Rogers Administrative Assistant

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Determining the Care You Need While Aging in Place What to Look for When Choosing Home Care or Home Health Care

You or a loved one may need assistance with daily living tasks such as bathing, getting dressed or running errands. Or perhaps you or your family member needs medical care such as skilled nursing, physical therapy or prescription management.

Home care and home health care services are available to address all of these needs and to help you maintain your independence and quality of life in your own home. By understanding the differences between these two options, you can craft a care plan that best suits you or your loved one both in terms of the help you need and how you will pay for the care you receive.

Home Care Home care services require no doctor’s orders, can be contracted for 24 hours a day and can continue as long as someone wishes. Home care involves custodial care and is sometimes also referred to as personal care, attendant care, non-medical care or companion care.

Home care services can include meal preparation, personal care, light housekeeping, shopping and other errands, and companionship. Some home care agencies offer geriatric care management, a service that oversees and coordinates all the outside services in a client’s home — from hiring a lawn service to coordinating medical-related home health care visits and more.

Although often crucial to being able to stay independent at home, home care typically is not covered by health insurance, but it may be covered by a long-term care policy if you or your loved one happens to have one.

When looking for a home care agency, ask if the home care agency: • Can provide services within 24 hours of a request; • Offers services any hour of the day and every day of the week; • Sends a substitute home care aide if the assigned aide is unable to come; continued on page 50

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Aging Resources 2023–2024

Your home is where our heart is Regain your independence in the comfort of home With comprehensive services and compassionate care, CenterWell Home Health® is ready to help you or a loved one recover from illness, injury or inpatient care, or to help successfully manage chronic conditions.

CenterWell Home Health’s skilled nurses and therapists are committed to giving patients the tools they need to manage their health confidently so they can get back to what they love.

We help manage: • Heart and lung conditions • Post-surgery recovery • Balance, mobility and fall risk • Wound care and prevention • Diabetes • Neurological conditions

• Speech therapy • Skilled nursing • Physical therapy • Occupational therapy

To learn more: Call 828-298-1370 (TDD/TTY: 711) or visit CenterWellHomeHealth.com 9 Olde Eastwood Blvd Asheville, NC 28803 • Available 24/7, 365 days a year • Initiation of care in 48 hours or less • Covered by Medicare and other private insurance for those who qualify

1901450

• I s bonded and insured for up to $1 million; and •C onducts criminal background checks and does other pre-employment screening of their employees.

Because the cost of home care is typically out of pocket, some people consider hiring an individual themselves instead of using an agency. If you are exploring that option, consider running criminal and other background checks on the caregiver and get client references. If you go the non-agency route, you also will need to make a plan for: •W hat happens when the individual caregiver is ill or unavailable; •W ithholding taxes, Social Security and Workers’ Compensation Insurance; •H omeowner’s insurance that would cover if a caregiver is hurt on the job; •H iring an individual caregiver with flexibility to change with your needs; and •W hat actions to take should the caregiver harm your family member.

Home Health Care Home health care is in-home medical care ordered by a doctor. The cost is often covered by private health insurance or Medicare.

Home health care procedures are performed by medical professionals and include services such as skilled nursing care, medication management, wound care, physical therapy and disease management training. Home health care professionals are in a patient’s home only long enough to carry out treatment.

Home health care is typically prescribed after a hospital stay. A home health care prescription can be taken to any licensed agency covered by your insurance. To be 50

proactive with your planning, research agencies before a hospitalization occurs.

When choosing a provider, be sure the agency: • Is licensed; • Accepts your loved one’s insurance; • Can begin providing services within 48 hours; • Is on call 24 hours a day; • Has a policy for you or your loved one to be able to reject particular care providers if you or your loved one don’t like them or feel they are not a good fit; and • Gives you references from a current patient, a patient’s family member and a business that refers to them.

As we and our loved ones age, there may be times when home care and home health care will be needed. By understanding what these different services offer, the most appropriate in-home help can be found.

HOME CARE RESOURCES North Carolina home care agency licenses can be checked at the N.C. Division of Health Service Regulation at Info.NCDHHS.gov/ DHSR/AHC/HomeCare.html A comparison of home health care agencies, a checklist for interviewing and more tips for finding the right agency can be found at Medicare’s page at Medicare.gov/ HomeHealthCompare.

More about local Home Care and Home Health Care providers and services they provide can be found on our chart on page 52.

Aging Resources 2023–2024

There's No Place Like Home...

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51 Always Best Care Senior Services

Serving Buncombe, Henderson, Polk & Transylvania Counties

5

2

Brightstar Care

Serving Buncombe, Henderson, Haywood, Madison, Mitchell, Polk, Rutherford, Transylvania & Yancey Counties

23 CareHeartedly

Serving Buncombe, Henderson, Polk & Transylvania Counties

3

CarePartners Hospice

99 Serving Buncombe, Henderson, Haywood, Madison,

Mitchell, Rutherford, Transylvania & Yancey Counties

CarePartners Home Health

99 Serving Buncombe, Henderson, Haywood, Madison, Mitchell, Transylvania & Yancey Counties

49 CenterWell Home Health

Serving Buncombe, Henderson, Polk & Transylvania Counties

47 Choice Care Your Way

Serving Buncombe, Henderson, Polk & Transylvania Counties

91 Compassionate Care Western North Carolina Serving North Buncombe, Madison, Mitchell & Yancey Counties

68 Four Seasons Home Care

Serving Buncombe, Henderson, Polk & Transylvania Counties

1

Four Seasons

68 Serving Buncombe, Haywood, Henderson, Polk & Transylvania Counties

Pardee Home Health

18 Serving Buncombe, Henderson, Polk, Rutherford &Transylvania Counties

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Aging Resources 2023–2024

STAY INFORMED WITH THE AGING RESOURCES WEBSITE!

View Recorded Presentations from our Virtual Senior Expo Enhanced, Searchable Online Resource Directory Website Links to Local Providers & Services Additional Articles & Tips on Successful Aging, Health & Wellness Sign Up for the Aging Resources Newsletter Accessible from Your Computer, Phone or Tablet

AgingResourcesWNC.com

The Importance of Caregiver Self-Care Tips for Taking Care of Yourself While Providing Care for Others

If you are a caregiver for a chronically ill, disabled or elderly family member, you are not alone – nearly a third of the U.S. population provides such care during any given year, spending an average of 20 hours a week on caregiving, according to the Caregiver Action Network.

As a caregiver, you know first-hand the challenges of finding balance in your life while caring for someone else. Juggling your own personal and family obligations as well as those of the person whom you’re caring for can be difficult and sometimes feel impossible.

As a result, it’s not uncommon to neglect your own needs and become depressed, frustrated, exhausted and physically ill. Sadly, caregiver burnout also can result in resentment of and 54

anger towards the person you’re caring for and – in the worst-case scenario – unintentional abuse or neglect of that elderly or disabled loved one.

By making self-care a priority, you are not only helping yourself as an individual but also as a family member and caregiver. Here are some strategies for taking care of yourself in the midst of caregiving: Focus on Healthy Habits • Do what you can to get enough rest and quality sleep, including taking naps when you can.

• Incorporate exercise into your regular routine, even if it’s just in short stints.

• Avoid junk food and fast food and eat nutritious meals and snacks.

Aging Resources 2023–2024

•D rink plenty of water and don’t overdo caffeinated beverages.

• Realize that a range of emotions come with caregiving.

•D on’t postpone your own regular medical check-ups.

• Participate in caregiving support groups.

Communities of caregivers can be found both online and throughout our region.

•A void abusing tobacco, alcohol or drugs, including prescription medications.

Ask for Hands-on Help From Others •A dopt an attitude of being willing to accept help from others. Avoid the mindset that you are the only one qualified to take care of your loved one.

By taking care of yourself while you are taking care of someone else, you can reduce your stress and lessen the chances for negative impacts, allowing you to feel more joy and satisfaction with the labor of love that is caregiving.

•C reate a plan for respite care so you can have breaks from caregiving.

•E nlist friends and family members of all ages to help with tasks such as grocery shopping, housework, yard work and taking your loved one to appointments and out recreationally.

•E xplore the possibility of contracting home care or home health care for your loved one.

•C onsider investing in healthcare-related devices like personal emergency response systems, or PERS, which can give you more peace of mind.

Get Emotional, Psychological and Spiritual Support •A t least once a day – preferably for at least 30 minutes – engage in an activity that gives you joy, such as reading, watching television, listening to or playing music or participating in a hobby like gardening or crafting.

•C arve out some time every day to sit quietly by yourself. Include meditation, prayer or inspirational readings if those activities are enjoyable and fulfilling for you.

AgingResourcesWNC.com

CAREGIVING RESOURCES Caregiver Action Network CaregiverAction.org Family Caregiving Alliance Caregiver.org National Alliance for Caregiving Caregiving.org Caregiving Advice AARP.org

LEARN MORE ABOUT How technology can help on page 12.

Home Care and Home Health Care on pages 48-50.

Area Home Care and Home Health Care providers and their services on page 52.

Caregiver Support resources in the Aging Resources Directory on pages 101-102.

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Implementing Universal Design in Your Home Modifications That Can Help You Maintain Independence While Aging in Place

As we grow older and our physical abilities change, our living spaces sometimes need modifications to help us function, prevent falls and stay independent so we can “age in place” in our homes.

Through a design approach called Universal Design, or UD, we can make our homes more accessible, operational and safe.

UD often involves simple, small changes that can make huge differences. For example, retrofitting a home using UD can be as easy as changing lighting to reduce glare, installing wall-to-wall carpet, putting up two handrails on staircases or making thresholds smooth. Such changes actually benefit everyone and make

living easier and more secure for people of all ages and abilities, from toddlers to seniors.

Universal Design sometimes can call for more involved remodeling, like making a barrierfree bathroom with a walk-in tub or roll-in shower. Creating a more accessible kitchen may include appliances at lower heights and cabinets with roll-out shelves and handles rather than knobs. These UD elements are a bigger investment but are still less expensive and less disruptive than having to move from home to an assisted living or care facility.

Retrofitting a home using UD also can be done gradually as your budget allows and on an “as needed” basis.

If you are building a home, you are in a great

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Aging Resources 2023–2024

position to incorporate UD options into your new space such as wider hallways for wheelchairs or walkers, lower light switches, higher electrical outlets and blocks behind walls to accommodate grab bars if they are needed later. The cost of incorporating UD into the design of a new home is minimal, while having UD throughout the house can add great value for resale.

Interior designers and homebuilders who are Certified Aging in Place (CAP) specialists can help you decide which Universal Design elements to bring into your current home or to add to your new home’s blueprints.

UNIVERSAL DESIGN RESOURCES

The RL Mace Universal Design Institute UDInstitute.org The National Aging In Place Council AgeinPlace.org AARP HomeFit Guide AARP.org/Livable-Communities/ Housing/Info-2020/ Homefit-Guide.html USC Leonard Davis’ School of Gerontology’s Interactive Website LifetimeHome.org University at Buffalo’s Center for Inclusive Design and Environmental Access Idea.ap.Buffalo.edu/About/ Universal-Design/ Certified Aging in Place (CAP) Specialist Directory in the National Association of Home Builders NAHB.org/Education-and-Events/ Education/Designations/CertifiedAging-in-Place-Specialist-CAPS

AgingResourcesWNC.com

Universal Design Options That Can Make Life Easier • Lights that turn on when you approach your home • No-glare lights for general lighting and task lighting • Rails on both sides of stairs • Raised electric outlets • Lowered rocker light switches • Programmable thermostats • Remote-controlled lighting, window blinds and other home systems • Drawers instead of cabinets in kitchen • D -shaped cabinet and drawer pulls • Wall-to-wall carpet rather than throw rugs • Wires neatly managed, off floors • Grab bars by toilets and in showers • Elevated toilets • Roll-in showers • Hand-held shower heads on glides • Non-slip, low-maintenance floors in bathrooms • Kitchen, bedroom, bathroom and laundry on one floor • Side-by-side refrigerator/freezer • Raised or lowered dishwasher • Counter-height microwave • Flat cooktop with front controls • Stoves and sinks with open space underneath for someone seated • Separate, comfort-height wall oven • Varied counter heights so cooks can sit or stand • Beveled corners on counters, furniture and walls • Raised, front-load, front-control washer and dryer • 36-inch-wide doorways and hallways to accommodate wheelchairs

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Experts to Help You Prepare for Your Next Move Seniors Real Estate Specialists® Designees Understand Senior-Specific Aspects of Real Estate

To better address the unique needs of home buyers and sellers who are 50 years old and older, some REALTORS® earn the SRES® – or Seniors Real Estate Specialist® – designation.

The SRES® designation indicates that a REALTOR® has demonstrated the necessary knowledge and expertise to counsel clients age 50 and older through the major financial and lifestyle transitions involved with relocating, refinancing or selling their home.

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SRES® designees recognize that a home is often the largest and most precious asset that older adults have and these certified senior specialists can help with navigating the financial and emotional aspects of selling a long-held family home.

REALTORS® with the SRES® designation have knowledge about a range of seniorrelated aspects of home ownership including things like managing capital gains and tax Aging Resources 2023–2024

implications, how Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security affect real estate decisions for senior citizens, how Universal Design can help seniors stay independent in their homes and how to avoid loan schemes and scams that target older adults.

• Connecting you with a network of movers, attorneys, CPAs, home inspectors and other experts to help you through the process.

SRES® designees have specific training and experience related to assisting older adults with real estate transactions, including: •C reating a customized plan to market and sell your property; •U nderstanding your unique needs and creating a personalized plan to ensure your home meets those needs now and in the future; •U tilizing specialized knowledge in reverse mortgages, 401(k) accounts and IRAs for your real estate transaction; and

MORE ABOUT SRES® For more about REALTORS® with the SRES® designation visit SRES.org.

If you are over 60 and live in Henderson County, why not leave the driving to us! WNCSource can take you almost anywhere you want to go.

Our handicap accessible vehicles provide a safe, comfortable ride and door-to-door service to a variety of local destinations.

– Shopping and Grocery Routes – Medical trips to/from doctor’s offices, clinics and hospitals – Senior Lunch & Light Shopping Program – Elderly and Disabled Transportation Assistance Program (EDTAP)

AgingResourcesWNC.com

Monday – Friday Service Based on Availability No cost to ride – donations gladly accepted!

Visit WNCSource.org for more information Call 828-698-8571 to reserve your seat today!

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Downsizing Possessions to Simplify Your Life Minimizing Household Items Can Help Increase the Ease of Your Next Transition

Maybe your children are grown and living on their own and you find yourself with more house – and more possessions – than you need or want. Perhaps you want to trade your life in a multi-story house with a basement for one in a retirement community with one level and less upkeep. Or maybe you are thinking of moving to an assisted living or skilled nursing facility.

You may benefit from employing the services of professionals who specialize in sorting and organizing, managing paperwork and documentation, selling items through estate sales, coordinating the donation of possessions to charity and arranging packing and moving.

Reducing the number of household items you own may better suit your needs at this stage in your life and there are many professionals and resources that can help with this transition.

Professional organizers include Senior Move Managers who are members of the National Association of Senior & Specialty Move Managers. The organization has a searchable database of Senior Move Managers® at NASMM.org.

Consider Hiring a Professional

Tips for Tackling Downsizing Tasks

Sorting through and getting rid of possessions – especially in a home where you’ve lived for many years – can feel daunting particularly if you have a lot of household items of yours and your loved ones.

To do some downsizing yourself, start by honestly evaluating what items you need and currently use in your life and think about what you really will need – or won’t – in your next living arrangement.

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When considering what to do with items, categorize items as those to “keep,” “sell or donate,” “see if a family member wants” or “throw out.” Using color-coded stickers to indicate which category an item falls into or putting items into different designated piles also can help during the sorting process.

Because it’s easy to become overwhelmed, pace yourself, enlist the help of friends and loved ones if possible and limit your sorting and purging sessions to no more than two hours at a time.

• Going through paperwork, digitizing important documents and shredding files that are outdated or no longer needed

If you have possessions that you think friends and loved ones would like, invite them over to take items for themselves, perhaps at a “downsizing party.” Consider contacting local nonprofit thrift stores and other charities about your donations which may be taxdeductible. Many organizations will come to your home to pick up furniture and other household items that you want to give away as long as they are in good condition.

REALTORS® with the Seniors Real Estate Specialist® designation specialize in helping clients 50 and older with relocating, refinancing or selling their home.

Areas to Start With Your Downsizing Include: •G etting rid of clothing and accessories you haven’t worn in years •P urging collections of books, magazines, CDs, albums, DVDs and VHS tapes •C learing out multiple pieces of furniture, especially ones that are large and bulky

While the prospect of downsizing may be daunting at first, be encouraged that as an increasing number of older adults adopt a “less is more” lifestyle, there is more help available than ever with transitioning to your next home.

SENIORS REAL ESTATE SPECIALIST® (SRES®)

Downsizing?

We Can Help: • Sort and Organize • Pack and Move • List and Sell • Clean Out Real Estate and Settle In

•D isposing of unused exercise equipment, tools, kitchen appliances and other devices •W eeding out holiday and other decorations •P assing on keepsakes, old photos and mementos to family members

Jill Hart Owner

•E mptying off-site storage facilities

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AgingResourcesWNC.com

828-989-7049 Hello@SilverPathwaysHome.com

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Residential Options for Elders Vary Based on Individual Needs

Know Which Type of Senior Housing Makes the Best Fit

If you are in the process of searching for senior housing for yourself or a loved one, it’s important to understand the differences in types of housing available for older adults with varying needs. Choices include independent and assisted living facilities, continuing care communities which are also known as life plan communities, family care homes, and nursing homes which are also known as skilled nursing facilities.

You aren’t just looking for a roof over your or your loved one’s head – you are searching 62

for a place that has the facilities, staff and services to meet your needs now and in the future. Understanding the types of housing available, the industry lingo and pertinent state regulations – which vary from service level to service level and state to state – can help ensure you make the right move.

Independent Living As the name states, independent living refers to a community of apartments and/or singlecontinued on page 64 Aging Resources 2023–2024

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family homes where residents – typically restricted to people 55 years old or older – live on their own without assistance. Some allow you to buy your unit, some are rent only and some offer a choice of either option.

Along with apartments and homes, many of these communities provide amenities such as scheduled social activities, recreational facilities, transportation to and from appointments, housekeeping and laundry services, and full-service dining. Some of these amenities may be included in the facility’s regular monthly fee while others may cost extra.

Independent living facilities are not licensed to provide medical care, home care or home health care, but they can invite a licensed provider to offer on-site care and contract individually with residents. As a resident, you can choose to use the on-site provider or a provider of your choice. Independent living facilities also may be called congregate living or retirement communities.

Assisted Living Assisted living in North Carolina can refer to state-licensed adult care homes, statelicensed family care homes and non-licensed multi-unit assisted housing with services. In South Carolina, these types of living facilities also are referred to as Community Residential Care Facility, or CRCFs. Adult care homes, which typically have fewer beds than assisted living facilities, offer 24hour supervision and assistance to residents.

Licensed by the North Carolina Division of Health Service Regulation and the South Carolina Bureau of Health Facility Licensing,

they provide meals, housekeeping, personal care services, medication supervision and management and nursing services as needed.

Family care homes are also licensed by the state and offer 24-hour supervision, meals and personal care to residents. They operate as any regular family home does and are not required to have nursing staff. Caregivers live on-site, adding to the family atmosphere.

These facilities often maintain an agreement with one licensed home-care or hospice-care agency to provide personal care and nursing services to residents on-site. However, residents are always free to choose their own providers.

Many of these establishments offer a full schedule of activities on-site and opportunities for off-site events. A few also have special wings for dementia care. However, just because an assisted living facility says it has a memory care unit does not guarantee that the staff is well trained in managing dementia or that state-of-the-art activities are offered.

Be sure to ask for staff training and program specifics and spend some time observing the unit.

Assisted living facilities also may be called rest homes or homes for the aged. Whatever name they go by, it is important to know if they are licensed or registered and exactly which services come as part of their standard care and fee and which are charged at an extra cost.

Nursing Homes or Skilled Nursing Facilities Nursing homes – also known as skilled nursing facilities – also are licensed by the continued on page 66

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Aging Resources 2023–2024

That's why we make your loved one our top priority.

We provide a home-like atmosphere and a vibrant social calendar. Our team of committed professionals is devoted to keeping your loved one engaged and maximizing the health and well-being of each resident.

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North Carolina Division of Health Service Regulation and the South Carolina Bureau of Health Facility Licensing. They offer the highest level of residential care and are the right choice for short-term inpatient rehabilitation for people recuperating from an accident or illness or for those who are chronically ill and need long-term care.

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In addition to a bed and meals, these homes provide round-the-clock monitoring, personal care, nursing care, rehabilitation, medication management and social-work services.

Most also offer a schedule of activities and opportunities for socialization.

On any given day, you’ll find a range of options to fuel your passions, meet new friends and enjoy a lifestyle rich with interesting and exciting educational and engaging programs.

Learn more about senior living at PisgahValleyRetirement.com or schedule a visit at 828.554.7702.

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6 Rhododendron Way, Candler, NC 28715 A Life Plan Community offered by Liberty Senior Living

123221 pisgah valley stretch your body ad-arm.indd 1

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Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs) or Life Plan Communities Continuing care retirement communities, which are also known as CCRCs or life plan communities, offer all three levels of care – independent living, assisted living and nursing home or skilled nursing – all on one campus. Typically, these communities require a buy-in or entrance fee. For this investment, residents are guaranteed the level of care they need at a regulated rate for life. Most CCRCs require that residents be able to live independently at the time of buy-in.

Buying into a CCRC can simplify financial planning and allows residents to establish peace of mind for everyone in the family.

Each community must issue and provide potential residents with a disclosure statement on their financial health.

If you or your loved ones are considering a CCRC, it is imperative that you not only understand the terms of your contract but

Aging Resources 2023–2024

that you also understand the community’s disclosure statement. These contracts usually fall into one of the following categories: •E xtensive contracts are full-service contracts that provide for residents to transfer from on-site independent living to on-site assisted living or skilled nursing when needed for an unlimited time and at little to no additional cost. The CCRC bears the majority of the burden of the residents’ long-term care.

• Modified contracts obligate the CCRC to provide health-related services for a specified number of days at no additional cost or at a subsidized fee. Thereafter, the financial responsibility for long-term care shifts to the resident.

• Fee-for-service contracts give residents guaranteed admission to on-site assisted living or a skilled nursing facility when needed but residents must pay extra for these additional services when used. With this type of contract, the resident bears the full financial burden of additional long-term care needs.

• Equity contracts involve a true real estate purchase. Health-related services with these contracts differ.

• Rental contracts provide for housing, services and guaranteed access to healthrelated services in exchange for monthly rent and service fee. continued on next page

NC State Veterans Home of Black Mountain Caring for Those Who Served

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• Full-Time Dietician and Nutritious Meals •A ctivity Programs, Meditation Room, Chaplain, Social Work and Volunteer Programs •H ousekeeping, Laundry, Private Rooms, Cable TV, Internet Access and Activities

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62 Lake Eden Road Black Mountain, NC 28711 Governed by the Department of Military & Veteran Affairs

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Regardless of how well you believe you understand these CCRC contracts and agreements, it is recommended that you take them to an elder law attorney and/or a CPA who can review them with you.

Careful Evaluation is Key Making a move to senior housing involves research and planning. Do not be shy about asking questions, requesting to dine with a current resident or asking to spend a weekend or up to a week at any community you or your loved ones are considering. The more information you gather about different properties and their services, their policies and rights as a resident, the better choice you or your loved one will make.

ASSISTED LIVING AND SKILLED CARE RATINGS AND REGULATION Check on the licensing, inspections, ratings, penalties and more for assisted living and skilled care facilities at the N.C. Division of Health Service Regulation at Info.NCDHHS.gov/DHSR/ACLS/ Star/Search.asp#Info. In South Carolina, visit the S.C. Department of Health and Environmental Control’s Bureau of Health Facility Licensing at SCDHEC.gov/BHFL. Visit Medicare’s Nursing Home Compare at Medicare.gov/ NursingHomeCompare/Search.html.

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AgingResourcesWNC.com

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SENIOR HOUSING OPTIONS

Enjoy the Peace of Mind Offered by These Housing Providers

Medicaid Accepted

Medicare Accepted

Rehabilitation Care

Respite Care

On-Site Home Care

Life Plan (CCRC)

Nursing Care

Memory Care

Assisted Living

Independent Living

PAGE BUNCOMBE COUNTY

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Ardenwoods

Asheville

78

Deerfield Retirement Community

Asheville

74

Harmony at Reynolds Mountain

Asheville

69

Heather Glen Assisted Living

Arden

67

NC State Veterans Home

Black Mountain

66

Pisgah Valley Retirement

Candler

29

StoneCreek Health & Rehabilitation

Asheville

71

The Laurels of GreenTree Ridge

Asheville

71

The Laurels of Summit Ridge

Asheville

73

Trinity View

Arden

PAGE HENDERSON COUNTY

65

Carolina Reserve of Hendersonville

Hendersonville

65

Carolina Reserve of Laurel Park

Laurel Park

113 Carolina Village

Hendersonville

77

Fletcher Park Inn

Hendersonville

29

Hendersonville Health and Rehabilitation

Flat Rock

75

Heritage Hills

Hendersonville

25

Life Care Center of Hendersonville

Hendersonville

76

TerraBella Hendersonville

Hendersonville

71

The Laurels of Hendersonville

Hendersonville

29

The Lodge at Mills River

Mills River

PAGE MADISON COUNTY

29

Madison Health & Rehabilitation

Mars Hill

PAGE POLK COUNTY

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70

Tryon Estates

Columbus

Aging Resources 2023–2024

Services Include:

• Short-term Nursing • Respite Care and Rehabilitation •P alliative Care • Long-Term Care & Hospice • Outpatient Therapy • Veterans' Services

A Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation Center

Call and Arrange Your Personal Tour at One of Our Three Beautiful Locations Today!

Laurels of GreenTree Ridge Perched on a scenic tree-lined ridge, Laurels of GreenTree Ridge is located less than two miles from Memorial Mission Hospital in Asheville, North Carolina. Our 92-bed skilled nursing facility is easily accessible from Interstate 40 and the neighboring, historic Biltmore Estate.

Laurels of GreenTree Ridge provides both short-term and long-term care for its guests, emphasizing independence and high quality living.

70 Sweeten Creek Road, Asheville, NC 28803 (828) 274-7646 LaurelsOfGreenTreeRidge.com Laurels of Hendersonville A 120-bed skilled nursing and rehabilitation center, Laurels of Hendersonville is located just outside historic downtown Hendersonville.

Among our many amenities is a gazebo area which provides the perfect setting for our guests to enjoy quiet time or socialization. Laurels of Hendersonville provides long-term care, short-term rehabilitation, respite, hospice care, and veteran's services. They are able to provide IV therapy, wound care and other complex medical services to their guests.

290 Clear Creek Road, Hendersonville, NC 28792 (828) 692-6000 LaurelsOfHendersonville.com

Laurels of Summit Ridge Located adjacent to the beautiful Blue Ridge Parkway, Laurels of Summit Ridge is a 68-bed skilled nursing and rehabilitation center, with a 23-bed assisted living unit, just a half mile from the VA Medical Center and five miles from Mission St. Joseph Hospital.

Laurels of Summit Ridge offers short term rehabilitation, hospice care, respite care, long term care and assisted living. We provide high quality, comprehensive health care for each guest.

100 Riceville Road, Asheville, NC 28805 (828) 299-1110 LaurelsOfSummitRidge.com

It is our mission to exceed the expectations of those we serve!

Senior Housing Checklist Questions and Considerations to Help Determine if a Move to Senior Housing is the Right Fit

Thinking about moving to senior housing? Here is a comprehensive checklist of what to look for and ask when considering senior housing options for you or a loved one: The Property re the grounds attractive? Is the building A well kept? Are the common areas inviting?

I s it handicap accessible? Are hallways and doors wide enough for walkers and wheelchairs? re handrails in the hallways?

A Are there elevators as well as stairs?

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Is it well lit?

Does it have a pleasant smell?

Do you like its layout?

Is it easy to find your way around? ow close are amenities like the H dining room and recreational areas to living quarters? continued on page 74

Aging Resources 2023–2024

Trinity View offers amenities and services without the commitment of an entrance fee.

AMENITIES INCLUDE: • No Entrance Fee • Pet Friendly • Fine Dining • Transportation • Housekeeping • Inhouse Medical Visits • Therapy Services

• On & Off Site Activities • Exercise Center with Scheduled Classes • Priority Access to our Assisted Living • 24-Hour Staff

828.687.0068 • www.TrinityView.net

2533 Hendersonville Road • Arden, NC 28704 Trinity View is a not-for-profit affiliate of Lutheran Services Carolinas.

Trinity View does not discriminate on the basis of race, age, sex, religion, or national origin.

I s security on the grounds 24 hours a day, seven days a week?

How far is it from where loved ones live?

The Staff Are staff present throughout the property? re the front-desk staff friendly A on the phone and in person?

I s every staff member at every post – front desk, maintenance, housekeeping, healthcare, dining room – appropriately dressed, pleasant and attentive? re your phone calls and emails A responded to promptly?

I s it easy to reach someone by phone and to leave a message? o staff members know residents and D address them appropriately?

The Residents Are the common areas active? o residents look well and happy and are D they socializing? hen you ask them, what do residents W have to say about life in their community and their satisfaction with food, healthcare and other services? oes the property have a newsletter D or monthly calendar of events in print and/or by email or online? If so, check out several months’ worth to see if the frequency of and types of activities offered are appealing to you.

The Food hat dining options are available?

W Is there more than one dining room?

Are complimentary coffee, tea, water and other beverages available throughout the day? Can you carry out meals to go or have them delivered, and if so, is there an extra charge?

What meals does the dining room serve and how many are included in the monthly fee?

Is the dining room full at dinner?

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hat foods are available every day?

W Get sample monthly menus to review. re meals for people with special A dietary requirements available? oes the food taste good? Is it presented D with pride? Are portions to your liking?

Dine in the dining room at least once.

I s there a private dining room if you wish to host a special event?

Are special meals offered on holidays? continued on page 76

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AgingResourcesWNC.com

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Services and Amenities hat services are available? Laundry?

W Housekeeping? Transportation to and from shopping, medical and other appointments, and special events? Wi-Fi? I f transportation is available, how often does it run, how far will they take you and is there an extra charge? re there on-site recreational facilities for A exercise, games and other activities? hat activities are available daily? What W special events are offered? Check out several months of events calendars.

Is there an on-site hair salon or barber?

I s there newspaper delivery, telephone, TV, cable and Internet availability?

Hendersonville’s Best Choice For Assisted Living & Memory Care Enjoy an exceptional living experience at TerraBella Hendersonville! Our outstanding Assisted Living & Memory Care programs offer residents remarkable, person-centered care at an exceptional value.

• 24-Hour Professional Care • Homestyle Dining with Tableside Service • Daily Activities & Entertainment • Complimentary, Scheduled Transportation • In-House Rehabilitation

828.537.5773

TerraBellaHendersonville.com 3851 Howard Gap Road Hendersonville, NC 28792

re there accommodations A for overnight guests?

I s there assistance with WhatsApp, Zoom, Skype or other video messaging platforms so relatives and friends can visit virtually?

Are any religious services offered?

Costs and Contracts What exactly is included in the monthly fee?

Which utilities and services are extra?

When can fees be raised and by how much?

What happens if your funds run out?

Do you need renters insurance? hat can result in termination of your W lease or contract? Read your lease or contract and make sure you understand everything in it. If you don’t, consult an attorney. If buying into a continuing care retirement community, or CCRC, or life plan community, be sure to receive a contract and financial disclosure. hat are your rights as a resident?

W Is there a resident council? What is the grievance procedure?

Your Living Space

In Independent Living

What floor plans are available? re pull cords throughout the residence in A case of accident or emergency? Is 24-hour emergency response available? an you control your own heat and C air conditioning?

I s the bathroom walker and wheelchair accessible?

Assisted Living | Memory Care

©2022 TerraBella Senior Living. All Rights Reserved. Prices, plans and programs are subject to change or withdrawal without notice. Void where prohibited by law. Managed and Operated by TerraBella Senior Living. TBHV-0021 8/22

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continued on page 78

Aging Resources 2023–2024

with PURPOSE Come explore a thriving retirement community nestled in the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains of Western North Carolina.

We have a place for you that you can call home.

• 1 or 2 bedroom apartments starting at $55,000 (Some rentals also available) • Up to 2,300 sq. ft. villas from $135,000 • 103-bed AdventHealth across the street • Our own fitness & aquatic center • 90% Return of Capital program 150 Tulip Trail • Hendersonville, NC 28792 800-249-2882 • 828-209-6930

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Can you open your windows?

under what conditions?

an you have a washer and dryer in the C apartment and/or is there a common laundry room or on-site laundry service?

an couples live together in assisted C living and skilled nursing rooms?

ho has access to your apartment or W home and under what conditions?

I f the campus has assisted living and skilled nursing, how does the transition to a different living arrangement work? an you stay in an apartment overnight C or longer to see how you like it? re pets allowed? If so, are there A restrictions? Is there a place to walk dogs?

Is a dog walker available?

In Assisted Living and Skilled Nursing

an you lock your windows and doors?

C Who else has access to your room and

re rooms private or doubles?

A If doubles, can you request a private room and if so, what is the charge? re pets allowed? If so, A what are the restrictions?

Healthcare Services For Independent Living

I s medical staff on site? If so, what are their hours? hat healthcare services – such as W medication management, care during illness and physical therapy – are offered onsite? What is the cost?

A trusted resource for more than 59 years.

Durable medical equipment loaned at minimal cost to residents of Henderson and surrounding counties.

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Aging Resources 2023–2024

to move from assisted living to skilled an you hire home care or home health care C • For individuals not born nursing in the U.S.,and who makes that decision?

DRIVER’S LICENSE if needed and remain in independent living?

North Carolina DMV one document (with full name) 125 Baystone Drive, Hendersonville What are your rights should you disagree? proving legal presence/lawful At what point does a resident need to 828-692-6915 | 919-715-7000 status NCDOT.gov/DMV/Help/Moving Is there a dementia care unit? If so, move from independent living• to assisted A document proving liabilit y Within 60 days of moving to North is staff i n s u r aWhat nc e c ove r a gehow f r om a trained and what special livingorand who makes Carolina moving within that the decision? provider licensed to do business in state, individuals mustshould change their services are offered? are your rights you disagree?

North Carolina. addresses with the NC Division of Written and road testsWhat may are be the daily scheduled activities?

Motor Vehicles and get a new or For Assisted Living waived for individuals with a valid duplicate license or ID as well as a state.

Driver new Ior vehicleassisted registration. s duplicate it a licensed living license facilityfrom or anotherFor Skilled Care license office appointments may To apply for a North Carolina driver multi-unit assisted housing with services?

Is the facility licensed by the state? be made online at NCDOT.gov/ license, new residents must visit an DMV/License-ID/Driver-LicenseNCDMV driver license office with Does it have any violations?

What healthcare and daily-living Appointments/Pages. the following:

support services are available?The DMV also issues NC C REAL IDs.choose your own doctor? an you • Ou t-of-st ate licen se or one Beginning May 7, 2025, federal document (with full name) provingor Are services all-inclusive agencies will enforce W thehat REAL healthcare and daily-living identity and date of birth ID Act, which requires a REAL ID, offered as levels of care? support services are included in the fee?

• Social Security card or other U.S. passport or another federallydocument Social Security ratio approved identificationWhat to board is extra?

What isproving the staff-to-resident number commercial flights and enter secure and staff turnover rate? hat isIDthe staff-to-resident ratio federal buildings. The NC WREAL • One document verifying physical is a REAL ID Act-compliant driver address in North Carolina (two are and staff turnover rate?

At what point of care does a resident need license that is just like a traditional required if getting an NC REAL ID) The Historic County Courthouse, continued on next page

originally built in 1904–1905, has been renovated and reopened to the public.

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AgingResourcesWNC.com

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Navigating How to Cover Elder Care Costs Resources for Learning How to Pay for Necessary Care

Challenged with how to pay for elder care services for you or a loved one? The following online resources can help you figure out how you may be able to cover these costs.

ACL.gov/LTC Managed by the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services, this website can help you answer questions about: •T he costs of long-term care.

•D isability and health insurance and how they may or may not pay for long-term care.

• Long-term care insurance and what it covers, when coverage begins, how to shop for it, where to look for it and what the costs are.

• How you may be able to use life insurance to pay for long-term care through 80

Combination (Life/Long-Term Care) Products, Accelerated Death Benefits or ADBs, life settlements or viatical settlements.

• How to pay privately for services through reverse mortgages, annuities and trusts.

Benefits.gov Run by the federal government, this website is a single source of benefit information set up to help citizens understand which federal benefit programs they may be eligible for and how to apply. Based on the answers you provide, the website’s Benefit Finder can generate benefits you may be eligible for, including health and medical cost assistance.

continued on page 82

Aging Resources 2023–2024

Our Teams Work Together to Give You Peace of Mind

The Law Office of Caroline Knox, PLLC

Caregiver Support Services LLC

Caroline Knox is a Board-Certified Elder Law and Special Needs Attorney. She has surrounded herself with dedicated professionals to assist aging adults. The Knox Law Team specializes in estate planning, asset preservation & estate administration.

In addition, at the request of clients or the court, Caroline serves as Power of Attorney, Trustee, Guardian or Executor.

In this capacity, Caroline uses the Caregiver Support Services team of professionals.

Caregiver Support Services is a complete care management organization specializing in Medicaid coordination, geriatric care management, personal financial management and support for fiduciaries. In addition to working to support Knox Law clients, all services are offered to individuals and professionals. The care management services may include assessments, arranging and attending medical appointments, assisting with moves to care facilities, home cleanouts, Medicaid applications and arranging preneeds.

Support for Guardians or other professionals can include these services, along with financial accountings due to the Clerk of Court.

"Everyone at Knox Law & Caregiver Support Services cares, and there’s a feeling of family that carries into the work we do."

CKnoxElderLaw.com | 828.513.1600 WNCCaregiverSupport.com | 828.435.2156

BenefitsCheckup.org The National Council on Aging online BenefitsCheckUp can help you find federal and state benefit programs that may help your family pay for health care, medications, family caregiver support, respite care and more.

NIA.NIH.gov/Health/Paying-Care Through this website, the National Institute on Aging offers options to consider when facing paying for long-term care including: •P ersonal funds such as personal savings, pensions or other retirement funds, income from investments in stocks and bonds and proceeds from the sale of a home.

•G overnment programs and assistance offered through the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, Medicare, Medicaid, Programs of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACEs), State Health Insurance Assistance Programs, the U.S. Dept. of Veterans Affairs and Social Security.

•P rivate funding options such as long-term care insurance, reverse mortgages, life insurance, annuities and trusts.

More About Medicare Learn more on pages 88-89.

Community Resources

Read on page 42-46 about local Councils on Aging, Area Agencies on Aging, Veterans Affairs contacts and other resources that might be able to assist with care costs.

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Money Follow the Person Demonstration Project Money Follows the Person (MFP) is a North Carolina Medicaid demonstration project that assists people living in qualified facilities with moving into their own communities with support.

•M FP supports North Carolinians in having more choices about where they receive their long-term support.

• MFP identifies and addresses barriers to receiving quality, community-based, longterm care and supports.

•P articipation in MFP is voluntary and funded through a partnership between the NC Department of Health and Human Services and the federal Medicaid agency, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.

Participant Benefits: • MFP participants who meet service eligibility requirements will receive priority access to Medicaid community-based service packages known as Medicaid waivers, or may enroll in the Program for All-inclusive Care for the Elderly.

•T ransition “Start-Up” Funding: MFP provides additional funding in order to secure items and services needed to transition.

This typically includes pre-transition staff training, security deposits, utility start-up expenses, furniture, accessibility modifications or other one-time items and services that may be required to transition.

Call 1-855-761-9030 Visit the MFP web page at Medicaid.NCDHHS. gov/Providers/Programs-and-Services/ Long-Term-Care/Money-Follows-Person.

Aging Resources 2023–2024

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Prevent Becoming a Scam Victim

Precautions to Help Avoid Scammers that Target Older Adults Access to major funds or credit, the fact that sometimes seniors are isolated and lonely and the perception that elders have reduced cognition are all reasons scam artists view older adults as easy prey. Each year, older Americans lose approximately $3 billion to an ever-growing number of financial scams, according to the U.S. Senate’s Special Committee on Aging.

But just because you or a loved one may be a target doesn't mean you or someone you care about has to be a victim. With awareness of the most common scams and having strategies in place, you and your loved one can avoid getting ripped off and help law enforcement agencies shut down these sordid operations.

Common Scams Targeting Seniors Senior scams play on our biggest fears and concerns – our health, our finances, our home and the well-being of our families. Scammers enter people’s lives by mail, phone and email, and in person with an unsolicited knock on the door. They often look official and seem trustworthy. Their offers may seem like good ideas – often too good to be true. Some of the most common senior scams include: IRS Scams: People pretend to be Internal Revenue Service employees and ask for payment for back taxes that are supposedly owed.

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Sweepstake Scams: Fraudsters call or send a flyer saying you have won something. To retrieve your “prize,” they ask you to send a check or give your credit card or bank account number.

Medicare/Health Insurance Scams: Someone calls saying they are from Medicare or a health insurance company and asks for confidential, personal information, such as your Social Security number.

Social Security Scams: A caller pretends to be with Social Security and attempts to get your Social Security number and other personal information by threatening legal action.

Romance or Sweetheart Scams: Through online dating sites and apps, scammers build fake relationships with targets. Once a sense of trust is established, the scammer creates stories to elicit the transfer of funds to pay for made-up expenses such as medical emergencies, airplane or hotel expenses and other major purchases.

Update-Your-Account Scam: An email or text that looks like it is from a company you actually do business with pops into your inbox or comes across your phone and asks you to update your account information, including a credit card or bank account number.

Home Repair Scams: Unsolicited, someone knocks on your door saying they can fix an

Aging Resources 2023–2024

issue with your home or on your grounds at a good price.

Utility Imposter Scams: Scammers pretend to be with the electric, water, gas or other utility provider, say there’s an overdue bill and threaten that services will be turned off if payment isn’t made by providing a bank account number or credit card information.

Charity Scams: Someone calls and asks you to donate to a fake charity with a very real sounding name or someone calls and says you previously made a pledge and they are now collecting on it — again, asking for cash, a check or your credit card number.

Grandparent Scam: Someone calls and says something like, “Hi, Grandma, it’s me” – not giving a name. The senior then responds with the grandchild’s name and the caller assumes the grandchild’s identity and asks for money.

Coronavirus Scams: Scammers trying to take advantage of people regarding COVID-19 include those pretending to be contact tracers, individuals saying they are government representatives calling about checks and people reaching out with offers for vaccinations, home test kits and cures.

There also are funeral and cemetery scams, discount drug scams, computer tech support fraud, fraudulent anti-aging scams, investment scams, reverse mortgage scams and debt collection scams. The list is long and new scams are created every day. What they all have in common is asking for money directly or asking for personal information they can use to steal your identity and get your money.

How to Avoid Being Scammed Be aware that everyone is susceptible and no one is immune. Have your guard up no matter how sharp you think you are and no matter how legitimate something seems. To stay safe, follow these recommendations: • Don’t give credit card numbers, bank account numbers or Social Security numbers over the phone or by email.

• Don’t answer the phone if you don’t recognize the caller.

• Never answer the door for a person you don’t know.

• Should you find yourself on the phone with a stranger, have a strategy for getting off the phone. Some people feel just hanging up is rude. If that’s the case for you or a loved one, have a strategy that works for you and use it – perhaps by saying that you have something to tend to and need to get off the phone.

• Shred your mail and documents before throwing them away.

• Lock up your checkbook, account statements and other sensitive personal information when people are going to be in your home.

• Check references and credentials of people you are hiring to do work for you.

• Consider using direct deposit to prevent benefit checks from being stolen from your mailbox.

• Get an unlisted phone number.

Your phone service provider will be glad to help you with this. continued on next page

AgingResourcesWNC.com

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•M ake it your strict policy to talk over any financial, charity or spending decisions with a trusted family member or friend before giving out information or money.

•N ever click a link in an email or text to access or set up an account with a business. Always enter your account through the business’ main website via your own browser and if anything seems questionable, call or visit the business.

•T rust your instinct. If your gut feeling is that something feels too good to be true, it probably is.

TO PREVENT AND REPORT SCAMS Sign up for the free National Do Not Call Registry at DoNotCall. gov or by calling 888-382-1222 from the phone you want to register.

Check your credit report annually at AnnualCreditReport.com or by calling 877-322-8228.

Steps to Take if You Are Scammed If you or your loved one receive what you believe to be a scam phone call, email, text or mailing, or if you believe a scam artist has knocked on your door, report it immediately to your local law enforcement agency.

Consider putting a “security freeze” on your credit report to restrict access to your credit file, making it harder for identity thieves to open new accounts in your name. Find out more by visiting the North Carolina Dept. of Justice at NCDOJ. gov/Protecting-Consumers/ Protecting-Your-Identity/FreeSecurity-Freeze.

Call your bank and/or credit card company to report what’s happened and cancel any debit or credit cards linked to the compromised accounts. Be sure to reset passwords and personal identification numbers associated with access to those accounts.

Visit at NCDOJ.gov/ProtectingConsumers and the South Carolina Dept. of Consumer Affairs at Consumer.SC.gov/ Consumer-Resources/ConsumerFAQs/Scam-Education for more tips about avoiding being defrauded.

If you realize you have been a victim of a scam, do not be embarrassed. These scammers are professionals and are very good at what they do. Turn your misfortune into a positive for your community and report the scam so you can help protect others.

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Contact the Consumer Protection Division of the North Carolina Dept. of Justice at 877-5-NOSCAM or the South Carolina Dept. of Consumer Affairs at 844-TELLDCA. Report a scam and stay up-to-date with what others are experiencing in your area by visiting the Better Business Bureau website at BBB. org/ScamTracker.

Aging Resources 2023–2024

Navigating Federal Healthcare Options

Need-to-Know Information for Understanding Medicare

The federal health insurance program Medicare is complicated but not impossible to understand. The program does have numerous parts and add-ons and the details of your selected policy can change from year to year, as can the premium.

Medicare itself offers comprehensive information at Medicare.gov; publications you can download or have mailed to you; toll-free numbers for your questions; and Medicare counselors in a town near you who can walk you through the entire process by phone. Because this information is subject to change, your best source for information about Medicare is the federal Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. But before you make contact, here’s a quick overview of Medicare – what it is, its parts and how those parts work together or not – so you know what specific questions to ask.

The Basics Medicare is a federal health insurance program for people who are 65 years old or 88

older. Some people with certain disabilities or diseases qualify for Medicare before they reach 65 years of age.

Medicare Parts Medicare is available in four parts – A, B, C and D – each with its own level of services.

Additionally there is Medicare Supplement Insurance, or Medigap, which is not Medicare but a private policy that works with your Medicare policy to supplement your healthcare costs.

Medicare Part A, in general, covers hospitalization, skilled nursing facility care, hospice care and some home-health services.

This part is offered through the federal government with no premiums for most American citizens if they or their spouses paid Medicare taxes for a certain amount of time while working.

Medicare Part B pays for medically necessary services, mental health services, physician’s services, outpatient care, medical supplies, Aging Resources 2023–2024

durable medical equipment, ambulance services and some preventative screenings and services. This part is offered through the federal government and is combined with Part A. Part B does have premiums.

Medicare Part C is also known as Medicare Advantage Plans. These plans are offered through private insurance companies and premiums are charged. These companies contract with Medicare to provide Medicare A and B benefits plus benefits and services not covered under A and B. They may offer extra coverage, like vision, hearing, dental or health and wellness programs. Also, many Part C plans offer prescription drug coverage (so if you have your Medicare through Part C, you won’t need Medicare Part D). With Medicare Part C, you typically are part of a Health Maintenance Organization (HMO), a Preferred Provider Organization (PPO), a private fee-for-service plan, a special needs plan, or a Medicare Medical Savings Account (MSA) Plan.

Medicare Part D covers prescription drugs.

It is an add-on to Parts A and B. As with Part C, Part D is offered through private companies approved by Medicare and there is a premium. Be aware that there is a penalty for late enrollment.

Supplemental Insurance Medicare Supplement Insurance, or Medigap policies, are sold by private insurance companies and are meant to supplement Original Medicare, also known as Parts A and B. Medigap policies help pay some of the health care costs that Medicare doesn’t cover, like copayments, coinsurance and deductibles.

AgingResourcesWNC.com

Some Medigap policies also cover services that Original Medicare doesn’t cover, like medical care when you travel outside of the United States.

Newer supplemental policies do not include prescription drug coverage. To obtain such coverage, you need to sign up for Medicare Part D or a supplemental plan with drug coverage.

Note that if you have Medicare Advantage Plan (Part C), it is illegal for a company to sell you a Medigap policy. You will need to choose whether Medicare Advantage Plan (Part C) or a supplemental policy best suits your needs.

The Medicare parts you choose are highly specific to your own unique situation.

One starting point for figuring out what type of Medicare coverage is right for you is the questionnaire at Medicare.gov/ MedicareCoverageOptions. Our Medicare Resources section also has resources that can help you make informed choices so you can get the healthcare coverage that best fits your individual needs.

STATE MEDICARE RESOURCES In North Carolina, learn more about Medicare, supplemental policies and more at the N.C. Dept. of Insurance at NCDOI.gov/Consumers/Medicareand-Seniors-Health-InsuranceInformation-Program-SHIIP. In South Carolina, learn more at the S.C. Dept. on Aging at Aging.

SC.gov/Programs-Initiatives/ Medicare-and-Medicare-Fraud.

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MEDICARE HELP Medicare.gov

This website offers thorough explanations about the Medicare program, updates on changes and answers to frequently asked questions. It also offers Medicare & You for download to your computer, as an e-book reader or as an audio podcast. You also can request that information be mailed to you on an audio CD or in print form, which is also available in large print and braille formats. This reference has everything you need to know about Medicare and supplemental policies, along with charts that allow you to compare and contrast parts, policies and benefits.

800-MEDICARE

Call this toll-free helpline to speak with someone trained to help you with any Medicare question or issue.

Seniors’ Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP) NCDOI.com/SHIIP 855-408-1212 (toll-free) Each county in North Carolina has its own SHIIP counselors specially trained to help you with your Medicare questions. Contact information for some of the SHIIP programs in our area: Buncombe County COABC.org/Benefits 828-277-8288 (ask for SHIIP help) Council on Aging of Buncombe County Haywood County MountainProjects.org/Senior-Services 828-356-2800 (ask for SHIIP help) Mountain Projects, Inc./ Senior Resource Center Henderson County COAHC.org/Resources LandofSky.org/SHIIP.html 828-692-4203 (ask for SHIIP help) Council on Aging for Henderson County

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Madison County MadisonCountyNC.gov/ Events-and-Resources.html 828-398-7700 Madison County Department of Community Services Polk County PolkNC.org/ The_Meeting_Place_Senior_Center.php 828-894-0001 (ask for SHIIP help) The Meeting Place/ Polk County Senior Services Rutherford County RutherfordCountyNC.gov/Departments/ Senior_Center/index.php 828-287-6409 (ask for SHIIP help) Rutherford County Senior Center Transylvania County Transylvania.CES.NCSU.edu/ SHIIP-The-Seniors-Health-Insurance-InformationProgram 828-884-3109 (ask for SHIIP help) Transylvania County Cooperative Extension Yancey County Main.NC.US/Yancey/YCSC.htm 828-682-6011 (ask for SHIIP help) Yancey County Committee on Aging /Yancey County Senior Center

State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) G e t C a r e S C . c om /G u id e/ I n s u r a n c e Counseling-MedicareMedicaid 800-868-9095 (toll-free) South Carolina has implemented the State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) – also called the Insurance Counseling Assistance and Referrals for Elders (I-Care) program – to help people applying for Medicare and Medicaid. SHIP is a free health benefits counseling service for Medicare beneficiaries and their families or caregivers.

Spartanburg County SCACOG.org/Aging-Services 864-242-9733 (ask for SHIP help) Appalachian Council of Governments-Area Agency on Aging

Aging Resources 2023–2024

Palliative • Hospice • Counseling 828.682.9675 | CompassionateCareWNC.org 856 Georges Fork Road, Burnsville, NC 28714

Find Peace of Mind in Planning Ahead

Carrying Out Your Medical and Financial Wishes Can Be Easier With Legal Advance Directives

Peace of mind comes with making a plan, especially when it comes to expressing your wishes for your medical care, your finances and your desires about the end of your life and after you die. Legal advance directives are documents that give others the authority and directions to carry out your wishes when you are unable to or when it’s more convenient for someone you trust to do so for you.

Four Essential Legal Documents Advance directives are legal tools that ensure a person’s wishes concerning their healthcare and finances are carried out should they become unable to express them. Everyone should have these documents on file no matter what their age. If you are helping your loved one create their advance directives, consider

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using this as an opportunity to write down your own desires and file your own advance directives. Documents you and your loved one should have include: • A living will; • A healthcare power of attorney; • A will; and • A durable power of attorney.

A living will address end-of-life issues, such as requesting or withholding medical treatments. A healthcare power of attorney is broader and allows the person you appoint, who is also known as a proxy, to make medical decisions on your behalf if you are unable.

For instance, if you are in a stable coma, your healthcare proxy could make decisions about your everyday care. Both the living will and

Aging Resources 2023–2024

the healthcare power of attorney are activated only when a physician declares the patient unable to give consent.

A will deals with the division of property and assets after death.

Medical or Physician Orders for Scope of Treatment Medical Orders for Scope of Treatment (MOST), , physician orders for scope of treatment (POST) or portable Orders for Life-sustaining Treatment (POLST) are other types of medical directives.

The durable power of attorney allows for the appointment of someone you choose to manage financial affairs should you become incapacitated. You decide on the scope of the durable power of attorney and under what conditions it is activated. Durable power of attorney ends at death. The executor of a will, who can be the same person who has durable power of attorney, then takes charge of the estate and financial affairs.

Issued through your healthcare provider as you approach the end of your life, a MOST, POST or a POLST is more detailed than a do not resuscitate or DNR order or a living will. The terminology for these kinds of orders varies from state to state.

Consider Professional Help

Typically, they work with your DNR and living will and also can temporarily suspend any conflicting orders. For example, you may have such a directive that instructs your provider to perform surgery or offer a treatment that your living will might prohibit.

You don’t have to use an attorney to create advance directives but you may feel more confident doing so.

State bar associations and government agencies can often be resources for instructions and forms for living wills and healthcare powers of attorney. In addition, most area hospitals and hospice organizations have forms and are glad to assist you with completing them. Be aware, though, that these directives must be properly executed and witnessed to be valid.

Will and durable power of attorney forms can be downloaded from various sources online as well. However, unless your life is very simple, think twice about executing these documents without the assistance of a lawyer. An attorney can be especially helpful if you have had multiple marriages or have stepchildren, grandchildren, a large estate, a business or other complex life situations. With all advance

These types of advance medical orders allow you or your proxy to decide what specific treatments or interventions you wish to have and which you don’t depending on your particular condition.

You and your physician, physician’s assistant or nurse practitioner fill out these medical orders together and they must be signed by both of you.

For more information, ask your physician and visit the North Carolina Medical Society at NCMEDSOC.org/ AdvocacyPublic-Health/End-of-LifeResources and the National POLST Paradigm at POLST.org.

directives, there is a lot to consider that is unique to you or your loved one and much is riding on the paperwork being properly done.

While you can “do it yourself,” talking with a professional is prudent. continued on next page

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What Your Directives Should Say The wishes expressed in advance directives are up to the person drafting the document.

The downloadable forms contain good prompts to ensure you ask and answer important questions and cover many bases.

However, these documents cannot address every situation so in addition to getting your wishes down on paper, make sure that all involved understand the underlying spirit of those wishes as well.

A family meeting is a great way to accomplish this. Frank discussions face to face with all concerned parties allow people to ask questions, sort out possible misunderstandings and come to terms with what their loved one wants. Such a meeting – strengthened by

legal documents that reflect the content of the meeting – provides the proxy and other family members with direction and peace of mind when tough decisions may need to be made.

Who Should Have the Power?

The toughest decision for many when putting these documents together is deciding who should receive their healthcare and durable powers of attorney. The proxy needs to be someone who knows the person and sees his or her life in context. The proxy also should understand the responsibilities and agree to the job.

Although a spouse or partner may seem like a natural choice, he or she might not be the best proxy. Typically, spouses and partners

WNCSource Older Adult Services assists Transylvania County Seniors age 60 and older.

Each weekday, we provide healthy meals, supplemental nutrition, and engaging activities to seniors with limited transportation and our homebound rural neighbors.

– LunchPlus congregate meal sites in Brevard & Quebec Community Center –H ome-delivered meals program in the Rosman, Quebec & Lake Toxaway areas of Transylvania County –L iquid Nutrition Program for medically needy seniors – Shelf-stable meal box program

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Call (828) 884-2255 to sign-up today!

Volunteers help us provide key services to our elderly neighbors. If you have a few hours a month and are willing to lend a hand, please give us a call or visit WNCSource.org for a list of service opportunities.

Aging Resources 2023–2024

are about the same age so issues of aging can present problems.

financial matters while another might be better with healthcare issues.

Appointing all children equally is another popular option. However, before making such a decree, consider, based on past experience, if this sibling group can reach a consensus on sometimes complicated and tension-filled decisions. On the other hand, realize that appointing one child as the sole proxy can lead to its own set of problems.

Keep Directives Up-to-Date Situations change over time so you should update all of your directives every five years or more frequently as needed to be sure they still reflect your circumstances and desires.

If the family dynamic won’t fare well with a group or individual being appointed, consider asking a close family friend or choosing a professional to do the job.

Whomever you select, think about that person’s natural strengths and weaknesses.

One child or close friend might be great for

Once completed, keep a file at home with several copies of all of your advance directives. Share copies with your agent, alternate agent and health care providers. Do not store them in a safe deposit box because people who need them may not be able to access them. Scan these documents onto your computer for quick reference and so you can send them electronically to any appropriate entity that needs them. Keep an electronic set on your phone and in the cloud, too, and register your advance directives online.

ADVANCE DIRECTIVES

Instructions and forms for North Carolina living wills and healthcare powers of attorney are available at SOSNC.gov/AHCDR. This site also is home to the N.C. Advance Health Care Directive Registry where you can file up to four different advance directive documents for easy access.

South Carolina advance directive instructions and forms can be found at Aging.SC.gov/Programs-Initiatives/ Legal-Assistance-Seniors.

To find Elder Law & Estate Planning Attorneys in your area, visit our Resource Directory on page 108.

If You Don't Have a Plan, The Government Does... (and it will cost you.)

Protect Your Family, Your Assets, and Your Peace of Mind.

Comprehensive Estate Plan Revocable Living Trust

$1,495.00- Unmarried Individual $1,995.00- Married Couple

1 or 2 Complete Will Package & POA’s - $399.95 Included-with family legal plan

Call David Jordan, CIPA, CITRMS

Independent Associate, Plan Coordinator, Notary Public

828.606.6442

AskDavidJ@gmail.com Serving all of WNC & Upstate SC Since 1994

AgingResourcesWNC.com

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Gain Clarity with End-of-Life Planning Outlining Your Final Wishes Provides Confidence for Both You and Your Loved Ones Most people avoid talking about death and dying and don’t want to think about a time when they’ll be gone. But being clear about your final wishes and making plans for what happens after you pass away can give you and your loved ones great peace of mind.

A good time to think about, write down and share what you would like to happen upon your death is when you are crafting your advance directives. Talking with friends and family members about your final wishes will give you and those who care about you confidence that when you die, your wishes will be carried out.

Personal Business • Even if you have a will outlining who will inherit your possessions, are there certain items such as photographs, family mementos and other keepsakes that you want particular people to have?

• If you have pets, who do you want to take care of them after you die?

• How do you want your email, social media and other digital accounts handled after you die?

Who do you want to take care of these matters?

Here are some questions to ask yourself as you start thinking about your end-of-life planning:

• Are there certain memories, stories and photos from your life and of your family history that you want to make a written, audio or video record of to preserve prior to your death?

Healthcare at the End of Your Life

Philanthropy and Financial Donations

• If you are diagnosed with a terminal illness, what kind of medical care do you want? Do you want hospice or palliative care providers?

If so, what are your goals for such care?

• In addition to your family, is there a particular charity that you desire to donate to? Have you contacted a legal or financial advisor to inquire about the best method of planning for your donation? Does your family know of your desired donation? Are you aware of the tax regulations which will be applied to your donation? In addition to listing it in your will, there are many different ways to prepare a philanthropic donation. For example, taking out a life insurance policy with the charity as the beneficiary, setting up a private foundation or beginning to give

• Is there a particular family member or friend you would like involved with your care at the end of your life?

• If you are able to choose where you will pass away, do you want to die at home or in a healthcare facility? Are there certain people you would like to visit you before you die?

Who would you like to be present with you when you pass away?

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annually right now might be effective ways for you to plan for your donation.

•A fter you pass, is there an organization you would like to direct friends and family to donate to in lieu of sending flowers?

If you have experienced a battle with a specific sickness or disease, would you like to request donations be sent to an association or foundation aiding in relevant research? Or perhaps if a long-term health issue has caused a financial burden on your family, would you like to set up a trust to help your family members in the time following your death?

Funeral and Memorial Planning • What do you want done with your body after you die? What are your preferences with regards to cremation, burial, organ donation and donation to science? If you are buried, do you want a grave marker? If you are cremated, do you have a particular place where you’d like your ashes spread?

• Do you want a funeral, memorial service, visitation or celebration of life? If so, where would you prefer these be held? Are there particular readings and music you would like to be shared? Is there a certain person you would like to deliver a eulogy? Are there any religious, military or other special considerations you want taken into account?

If you have a casket, do you want it open?

• Do you want an obituary and if so, what do you want it to say? Is there a particular photograph you would like used with it?

These questions can serve as a starting point for making your end-of-life plans and having conversations about your final wishes with AgingResourcesWNC.com

the people who care about you. Through endof-life planning, you gain peace of mind today and at the time of your death your grieving loved ones are relieved of the additional burden of second-guessing what you may have wanted.

PLANNING RESOURCES Online tools, guides and checklists can be found at TheConversationProject.org and EverPlans.com.

Aging Resources has more information about creating your living will, healthcare power of attorney, will and durable power of attorney on pages 92-95.

Planning ahead is important.

Wills • Trusts • Estates Real Estate Matters

Edward Harrelson attorney

(828) 698-2345 136 S King Street Hendersonville, NC RHC-Legal.com

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The Comforting Benefits of Palliative and Hospice Care when Navigating Illness Enhancing Quality of Life with Multiple Care Solutions When facing a serious illness or life-limiting condition, palliative care and hospice care can provide you or a loved one with relief, a sense of control and enhancement of life in the midst of difficult circumstances.

Both palliative care and hospice care focus on the needs of the whole patient, not just someone’s illness. Both have the goal of decreasing symptoms and increasing quality of life, and both help patients and their families live as fully as possible and with dignity in spite of their illness.

Palliative Care Palliative care is for patients managing a serious illness. With palliative care, curative treatments continue but with a more holistic approach that takes you and your whole life into account.

With palliative care, you get a team of specially trained professionals to help you navigate your life, as well as your illness. A palliative care team typically consists of a medical social worker, some combination of healthcare providers – such as a physician, nurse practitioner and nurses – and perhaps a pharmacist, nutritionist, spiritual counselor and volunteers. Working closely with you and your family, the team helps you or your loved one: • Have a conversation with family members about and document wishes for future health care; 98

• Develop treatment goals and a lifemanagement plan that reflect your or your loved one’s values, life goals, lifestyle and desires; • Ensure proper pain management and symptom relief is in place; • See that financial issues are addressed and help is found if needed; and • Ensure that family members receive information, support, respite and other needed resources.

With palliative care, the patient is always in control. You or your loved one can ask the doctor for a referral to palliative care at any time during a serious illness and palliative care services can be stopped at any time during an illness or when there’s recovery.

Hospice Care Hospice care is for an individual with any lifelimiting condition and typically a prognosis of six months or less to live. As with palliative care, hospice care is provided by an interdisciplinary team of healthcare and human services professionals.

A hospice team works closely with the individual who is ill to achieve many of the same goals as with palliative care. The difference is that hospice patients are no longer seeking curative treatments, but Aging Resources 2023–2024

rather are seeking comfort and quality of life.

Hospice care does nothing to hasten death. In fact, people receiving hospice care often live longer than people actively being treated for the same disease. With hospice care: • Services can be received at home, at a care facility, at a hospital or at a hospice house.

For those in a hospital or nursing facility, hospice care can often make a move home possible if so desired.

• Hospice recipients can continue to see their regular physicians and use prescribed medications.

• People under hospice care can go out, have visitors in and do whatever they feel up to doing.

• Individuals under hospice care can stop receiving it and resume curative treatment at any time.

A physician’s referral is required for palliative or hospice care. Medicare, Medicaid and private insurance may offer benefits for both types of care. Care teams can help look into specifics of an individual’s health care policy to determine what is covered.

MORE ABOUT PALLIATIVE AND HOSPICE CARE Visit the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization at NHPCO.org/Patients-and-Caregivers.

Find local Palliative and Hospice Care Providers on page 52 and in the Aging Resources Directory on page 106.

Start the conversation.

828-255-0231 | missionhealth.org/hospice AgingResourcesWNC.com

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There is plenty of help for seniors and their caregivers in our area.

Below is a list of commonly needed services. For a direct link to all websites for listings in this directory, view the magazine online at AgingResourcesWNC.com.

GENERAL INFORMATION Aging Resources Magazine A print and online resource for managing the financial, legal, social, residential, health and medical issues of aging and caregiving.

828-513-3888 | AgingResourcesWNC.com Local Councils on Aging (COA) receive limited funding to provide family caregivers with grants for respite care.

Funding can be used for home care, day programs, and overnight respite programs. Contact the COA nearest you for more information and to apply for a grant.

Council on Aging of Buncombe County Local nonprofit advocacy agency that also provides a wide range of services and resources for older adults.

828-277-8288 | COABC.org Council on Aging for Henderson County Providing and coordinating services to engage, connect, and support adults in our community as we age. Support the mission by donating and shopping at the Etowah and Hendersonville Thrift Stores. Programs include: Caregiver Services, Community Resource Coordination, Heat Relief, Liquid Nutrition, Meals on Wheels, Senior Companion, Lunch at the Sammy Center (Congregate Meals), and Volunteer Opportunities.

105 King Creek Boulevard, Hendersonville 828-692-4203 | COAHC.org SEE PAGE 41 Foothills Regional Commission Area Agency on Aging Facilitating a comprehensive long-term care system for older adults in the region. Serves Polk, Rutherford, McDowell, and Cleveland Counties.

828-287-2281 FoothillsRegion.org/Area-Agency-On-Aging Land of Sky Regional Council A multi-county, planning and development organization offering volunteer opportunities, aging resources, workforce development, community development services and more.

339 New Leicester Highway, Suite 140 Asheville 828-251-6622 | LandofSky.org 100

North Carolina Department of Health & Human Services Division of Health Service Regulation Office: 919-855-3750 Adult Care Licensure: 919-855-3765 For information about inspections, penalty and star rating on Adult Care facilities visit NCDHHS.gov/Assistance/Adult-Services.

ACCESSIBLE AND UNIVERSAL DESIGN RL Mace Universal Design Institute The Institute works with homeowners, builders, remodelers, and design professionals to create accessible and universal home environments.

1854 A Hendersonville Road, Asheville 919-608-1812 UDInstitute.org AGING IN PLACE Aging Projects, Inc. This online resource directory is specially designed to help seniors find screened resources to age in place.

828-776-1390 | AgingProjectsInc.org ALZHEIMER’S/DEMENTIA Alzheimer’s Association Comprehensive information, care consultations, and online resources—24/7 Helpline.

For information call.

800-272-3900 | ALZ.org Western Carolina Chapter 828-398-5780 ALZ.org/NorthCarolina Dementia Friendly WNC A grassroots organization dedicated to the well-being of people living with dementia and their families through a welcoming and knowledgeable community.

828-820-2080 LandOfSky.org/DementiaFriendly.html DementiaFriendlyWNC@gmail.com DementiaFriendlyWNC.org

Aging Resources 2023–2024

ALZHEIMER'S/DEMENTIA MEMORY SUPPORT GROUPS Dementia Alliance of NC Support Groups Committed to offering local support groups throughout the state of North Carolina so that location is never a factor that hinders a caregiver from attending a group session. Visit their website to find a support group in your area.

DementiaNC.org/Family-Services-Support/ Support-Groups MCI Support Group Support group specifically for persons with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI). Caregivers are welcome to join their loved ones, but these meetings are primarily focused on persons experiencing MCI. 1st and 3rd Wednesdays at 11am, hybrid format.

Grace Covenant Presbyterian Church 789 Merrimon Avenure, Asheville 828-771-2219 | Office@MemoryCare.org Memory Caregivers Network Group Third Tuesday Monthly from 1:00-3:00pm.

Please contact for schedule updates.

New Hope Presbyterian Church 3070 Sweeten Creek Road, Arden Call 828-771-2219 or email Network@MemoryCare.org for Zoom meeting information.

Memory Loss Caregivers of East Buncombe Second Tuesday 9:30-11:30 am. Please contact for schedule updates.

Highland Farms Retirement Community 200 Tabernacle Road, Black Mountain

Support Group for Dementia Spouses Third Tuesday each month, 1:00-2:30pm. A care receiver and activity program is provided for loved ones.

First United Methodist Church 204 Sixth Avenue West, Hendersonville Contact Lisa Kaufman at 561-371-9410 (cell).

Support Group for Dementia Family Members Third Tuesday each month, 3:00-4:30pm.

A care receiver and activity program is provided for loved ones.

First United Methodist Church 204 Sixth Avenue West, Hendersonville Contact Lisa Kaufman at 561-371-9410 (cell).

BEHAVIORAL HEALTH St. Luke’s Hospital A Critical Access Hospital providing high-quality inpatient, outpatient, and ambulatory care services that continuously exceeds in patient satisfaction.

In addition to inpatient care, we offer world-class CT imaging, 3D mammography, behavioral health, cardiology, cancer and infusion, urology, general surgery, orthopedics, pain management, primary care, rehabilitation, swing bed, and a 24/7 ER. 101 Hospital Drive, Columbus 828-894-3311 StLukesNC.org SEE PAGE 3 CAREGIVER SUPPORT Foothills Dementia /Alzheimer's Caregivers Support Group Provides an outlet for caregivers to share concerns and identify resources and tools to better understand and deal with many situations that may arise. Serving the greater Polk County and Landrum areas, caregiver meetings are held monthly on the last Wednesday from 3-4pm with onsite supervised activities for loved ones.

Meeting Place 75 Carmel Lane, Columbus 828-894-0001 | DCarson@polknc.org

(Brookside Building, J-K Entrance, level 2, Maple Room)

Contact Mary Donnelly for more information at 828-230-4143 or MaryDDSnow@gmail.com.

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Project C.A.R.E. (Caregiver Alternatives to Running on Empty) This state-funded program offers care consultation, information, assistance and referrals to other resources to family caregivers/care partners who care for a loved one with dementia. Services are free to consumers.

339 New Leicester Hwy, Suite 140, Asheville 828-251-6622 | LandofSky.org/ProjectCare

AGING RESOURCES DIRECTORY

Family Caregiver Support Program The Family Caregiver Support Program works on a regional level to establish partnerships with caregiver service providers, caregivers, and those who interact with caregivers to leverage resources and improve and expand the available resources / services for caregivers.

Land of Sky Regional Council Area Agency on Aging 828-251-7341 LandofSky.org/FCSP SEE PAGE 44 MountainCare Caregiver Support Groups 1st and 3rd Wednesday of each month, 3:30-5pm.

Free and open to the public. Email for schedule updates and online meeting format, if applicable.

No pre-registration required. Please confirm in advance in case there have been schedule changes.

68 Sweeten Creek Road, Asheville 828-277-3399 | DonnaN@MtnCare.org MountainCare Adult Day Centers Buncombe: 828-277-3399 Henderson at Pardee: 828-697-7070 MountainCareServices.org Caring for People Education and Support (CAPES) Session topics include caring for people living with dementia, legal issues, coping with stress, self-care, community resources and making difficult life choices. Third Tuesdays monthly, in person at 2pm and via Zoom at 5pm at TinyURL.com/28fjpjkp Please contact for schedule updates.

First Baptist Church, NC Room CB-22 5 Oak Street, Asheville CHARITABLE GIVING Four Seasons Foundation Use philanthropy as an estate planning tool to make award-winning levels of hospice and palliative care possible into the future.

211 North Main Street, Hendersonville 828-513-2440 FourSeasonsFDN.org MemoryCare A non-profit community-based charitable program offering specialized medical care and support for patients and families affected by Alzheimer’s and other memory disorders.

100 Far Horizons Lane, Asheville 828-771-2219 | MemoryCare.org

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COMPANIONS Senior Companion Program Senior volunteers provide assistance with daily tasks to other seniors.

Land of Sky Regional Council Dee Heinmiller, Senior Companion Manager 828-251-6622 Buncombe, Henderson, Madison, and Transylvania Counties

LandofSky.org/scp.html ONGREGATE MEALS & C MEALS ON WHEELS

Congregate Meals - Buncombe County

Grove Street Community Center Congregate lunch, Monday-Friday. Services are available to persons 60 years of age and older and their spouses. Congregate dining is Monday-Friday, 9:00am-1:00pm.

36 Grove Street, Asheville | 828-350-2062 Shiloh Community Center Congregate nutrition services promote the health and well-being of older adults through the provision of a nutritious meal and programs. Services are available to persons 60 years of age and older and their spouses. Congregate dining is on Fridays, 11:00am-2:00pm.

121 Shiloh Road, Asheville | 828-274-7739 Weaverville First Baptist Church Congregate nutrition services promote the health and well-being of older adults through the provision of a nutritious meal and programs. Services are available to persons 60 years of age and older and their spouses. Congregate dining is Monday-Friday, 10:00am-1:00pm.

63 N Main St, Weaverville | 828-645-6720 Lakeview Senior Center Congregate nutrition services promote the health and well-being of older adults through the provision of a nutritious meal and programs. Services are available to persons 60 years of age and older and their spouses. Congregate dining is Monday-Friday, 10:00am-1:00pm.

401 Laurel Circle Drive, Black Mountain 828-669-2035

Aging Resources 2023–2024

Mobile Meals

First United Methodist Church COAHC serves lunch at no cost to members Monday through Friday between 11:00 and 11:30 am. Guest meals are $4.00. Contact for membership enrollment and information.

First United Methodist Church, 204 6th Avenue West, Hendersonville 828-692-4203 COAHC.org/Congregate-Dining

Meals on Wheels Hot meals delivered Monday-Friday to homebound adults who are unable to prepare meals.

Buncombe County: 828-253-5286 | MOWABC.org Henderson County: 828-692-6693 | COAHC.org/Meals-on-Wheels Polk County: 863-299-1616 | MealsOnWheelsPolk.com Transylvania County / Brevard: 828-883-3743 | MealsOnWheelsBrevard.org

Mills River Life Enrichment Center (MRLEC) Senior fellowship with a program and lunch every Thursday. Programs begin at 10:00 am and are held in the Mills River United Methodist Church Fellowship Hall. Lunch Reservations are required. Please call by 12:00 pm the Tuesday before each program.

Mills River United Methodist Church 137 Old Turnpike Road, Mills River 828-808-5581 | MillsRiverUMC.org Congregate Meals - Polk County

The Meeting Place - Columbus Congregate lunch 11:30am, Monday-Friday, activities 10:00am-1:00pm.

25 Shield Drive, Green Creek 828-863-2795 | PolkNC.org Saluda Senior Center Monday-Friday, home-delivered meals, recreation and education programs 64 Greenville St., Saluda 828-749-9245 | PolkNC.org Congregate Meals - Transylvania County

Quebec LunchPlus Program (WNCSource) Congregate lunch, Monday-Friday, 9:30am-12:00pm A socialization/nutrition program for Transylvania County residents 60 years old and better that includes daily activities and lunch. Transportation may be available depending on where you live.

Pre-enrollment is required.

Quebec Community Center 11846 Rosman Hwy/Hwy 64, Lake Toxaway 828-884-2255 | WNCSource.org Silvermont LunchPlus Program (WNCSource) Congregate lunch, Mon-Fri, 9:30am-12:00pm A socialization/nutrition program for Transylvania County residents 60 years old and better that includes daily activities and lunch. Transportation may be available depending on where you live.

Pre-enrollment is required.

Silvermont Opportunity Center 364 East Main Street, Brevard 828-884-3166 | WNCSource.org

AgingResourcesWNC.com

WNCSource Mobile Meals Provides free meals to the elderly community (60 years or older) who are homebound in locations where Meals on Wheels doesn’t go in Transylvania County. Donations are accepted.

828-884-2255 WNCSource.org SEE PAGE 94 EDUCATION & CULTURAL CENTERS Blue Ridge Center for Lifelong Learning Classes, “EdVentures,” brown bag lunches and other learning opportunities for those 50 years of age and better. Visit the website for schedule updates.

Blue Ridge Community College 180 West Campus Drive, Flat Rock 828-694-1740 | BRCLL.com Life@Western Carolina Noncredit Lifelong Learning courses for adults 50+. Topics include history, culture, health, science, geo-political and legal issues. Visit the website for schedule updates.

Biltmore Park, Asheville 828-227-7397 | Life.WCU.edu Osher Lifelong Learning Institute A learning community dedicated to promoting lifelong learning, leadership, community service and research. Visit the website for updates.

University of North Carolina-Asheville One University Heights, Asheville 828-251-6140 | OLLIAsheville.UNCA.edu

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Congregate Meals - Henderson County

AGING RESOURCES DIRECTORY

FINANCIAL SERVICES Leslie J. Apple, AAMS™ – Edward Jones No matter what stage of life you are in, unforseen events can happen. We can help you prepare for those unexpected circumstances.

4 Olde Eastwood Village Boulevard Suite 204, Asheville 828-505-0490 EdwardJones.com/Leslie-Apple SEE PAGE 83 GRIEF AND LOSS CarePartners Hospice Bereavement Services CarePartners Hospice Bereavement Services are available to you or your family as you adjust to a loss.

They offer support in a variety of ways for individuals and families: Semi-annual memorial services, individual and group sessions for adults and children available at some locations, and other groups and workshops may be offered through your regional office. For more information, contact your regional CarePartners Hospice Bereavement coordinator.

Buncombe County/Asheville: 828-251-0126 Macon County/Franklin: 828-369-4206 McDowell County/Marion: 828-659-7068 Transylvania County/Brevard: 828-883-5254 HEALTH INSURANCE NC SHIIP/SMP A consumer information division of the N.C. Department of Insurance that assists people with Medicare, Medicare Part D, Medicare supplements, Medicare Advantage, and long-term care insurance questions. They also help citizens recognize and prevent Medicare billing errors and possible fraud and abuse through NCSMP Program.

1-855-408-1212 NCSHIIP.com SEE PAGE 87 HEALTH AND WELLNESS AdventHealth Hendersonville Nationally recognized for quality and safety with the CMS Hospital Compare 5-Star rating, AdventHealth is committed to provide whole-person care – body, mind and spirit to every person across WNC. 100 Hospital Drive, Hendersonville 855-774-LIFE (5433) AdventHealthNC.com

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CarePartners PACE (Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly) PACE promotes the independence of seniors 55+ who want to live at home. A team of professionals coordinate an array of services for each participant.

286 Overlook Road, Asheville 828-213-8442 MissionHealth.org/PACE SEE PAGE 99 Mission Health Recognized as one of the nation’s Top 15 Health Systems, Mission is dedicated to improving the health and wellness of the people of WNC. 509 Biltmore Avenue, Asheville 828-213-1111 Mission-Health.org St. Luke’s Hospital Senior-focused services for inpatient and outpatient swing bed (Steps to Home), orthopedics, state-ofthe-art 3D mammography, contemporary urology, rehabilitation and 24/7 ER. 101 Hospital Drive, Columbus SaintLukesHospital.com SEE PAGE 3 YMCA of Western North Carolina The Y offers program to all that focus on building a healthy spirit, mind and body. From programs like Diabetes Prevention to group exercise for all levels you will find support for your health journey. We operate mobile food markets in five counties providing fresh produce for free to all. The Y connects community in meaningful ways. Thanks to generous donors, no one is turned away for inability to pay. We partner with Medicare Advantage to offer even more options for membership. Stop in for a tour in one of our seven locations in Buncombe, Henderson or Marion counties.

Ask about our financial assistance program.

828-251-5910 YMCAWNC.org

SEE PAGE 21

WNC Fall Prevention Coalition The WNC Fall Prevention Coalition is committed to reducing the number of falls and fall-related injuries in Western North Carolina. Ongoing programs and meetings, please email for county-specific information.

FallPreventionCoalitionWNC@gmail.com NCFallsPrevention.org/ Western-NC-Falls-Coalition

Aging Resources 2023–2024

Hendersonville Community Co-op As an owner operated cooperative, their mission is to provide organic and wholesome, natural foods, supplements and health care products, and to encourage informed choice through education and exceptional service to their customers and community.

60 South Charleston Lane, Hendersonville 828-693-0505 Hendersonville.Coop SEE PAGE 6 HEARING SERVICES Biggert’s Hearing Instruments Established in 2000, Biggert’s licensed audiologists provide comprehensive hearing evaluations and work with you to choose customized hearing aid solutions, including rechargeability and bluetooth wireless connectivity.

303 South Church Street, Hendersonville 828-692-0353 BiggertsHearing.com SEE PAGE 31 HOME CARE Always Best Care Senior Services Providing In-Home Care assistance including personal care, medication reminders, household assistance, light housekeeping, meal preparation, transportation / shopping, recovery care, companionship, Alzheimer’s & Dementia care and skilled nursing care. We also offer a proprietary Balance Tracking / Fall Risk Assessment program and Remote Patient Monitoring system to allow for more preventative and preemptive healthcare and increased safely for our clients. Care is available 24/7.

828-676-2939 AlwaysBestCareWNC.com SEE PAGE 51 BrightStar Care We provide compassionate, high quality care services in-home or assisted living that goes above and beyond. We call it "A Higher Standard".

1340 F Patton Ave, Asheville 828-255-1733 BrightStarCare.com/Asheville SEE PAGE 5

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Four Seasons Home Care In-home assistance with personal care, meals, housekeeping, shopping, transportation and more.

Now offering Remote Safety Monitoring and Medication Planning Services. Available 24/7.

513 North Justice Street, Suite B Hendersonville FourSeasonsHomeCare.org SEE PAGE 68 National Association for Home Care & Hospice Licensing and accreditation information on and a locator for home care and hospice agencies.

AgencyLocator.NAHC.org Medicare Compare for Home Health Information on and patient survey results for home health agencies by location and ability to compare services offered.

Medicare.gov/HomeHealthCompare HOME HEALTH CARE CareHeartedly Not just home care, their clients thrive with their integrated care approach. And their families have peace of mind knowing they’re getting the attention and stimulation they deserve. Call or visit them online to learn more about their packages and special offers.

109 S. Main Street, Suite 3, Hendersonville 828-595-5734 CareHeartedly.com SEE PAGE 23 CarePartners Home Health For patients who are aging, ill, or recovering from an illness or an injury, we offer the care you need, from nursing to therapy to social work, right in the comfort of your own home.

Home Health: 800-627-1533 Private Duty: 828-277-4777 CarePartners.org SEE PAGE 99 CenterWell Home Health At CenterWell Home Health, care is defined by clinical expertise and the compassion delivered every day – one patient at a time.

9 Olde Eastwood Village Boulevard, Asheville 828-298-1370 CenterWellHomeHealth.com SEE PAGE 49

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HEALTH FOOD/GROCERY STORES

AGING RESOURCES DIRECTORY

Choice Care Your Way Locally owned in-home care registry serving WNC that strives to match every client with caregivers for that perfect fit. Owners Lisa and Beth have years of experience in Home Health Care, Palliative Care, Hospice Care, and Dementia Care. They are uniquely qualified to guide, advocate and support individuals and families who need in-home care.

828-772-4714 ChoiceCareYourWay.com SEE PAGE 47 Pardee Home Health Providing the quality medical care you need in the comfort of your own home. Offering a full range of in-home services.

114 College Drive, Flat Rock 828-692-1846 PardeeHospital.org SEE PAGE 18 Vital Homecare Believing in the power of humility, positivity and authenticity, these core values guide everything they do and shape their approach to providing exceptional care and service. Vital Homecare provides in-home and in-facility care including personal care, light housekeeping, transportation, companion care, shopping, meal preparation and medication reminders. Servicing Buncombe, Henderson, Madison, Transylvania, Haywood, Jackson, Mitchell and Yancey Counties.

828-827-3033 | Info@vitalhomecare.com OME MODIFICATION & H ASSISTIVE DEVICES Brunson's Furniture Located in Downtown Hendersonville, offering an extensive selection of fully reclining lift chairs and adjustable beds. Delivery and full setup is available.

400 N King St., Hendersonville 828-692-1471 BrunsonFurniture@Yahoo.com SEE PAGE 24 Helping Wheels Their goal is to provide quality wheelchair accessible vans, driving controls, mobility equipment, automotive wheelchair lifts, scooter lifts, stairlifts, vertical platform lifts, wheelchairs, scooters and other personal mobility equipment.

1078 Tunnel Road, Suite F, Asheville 866-443-3101 HelpingWheels.com SEE PAGE 45 106

MobileLife Providing home medical equipment and adaptive mobility access solutions. Visit their showroom to "test ride" a mobility scooter and discuss your mobility and accessibility needs.

73 Airport Road, Arden 828-676-2760 WNCMobileLife.com SEE PAGE 13 Pre-Op Solutions Their team of experienced professionals understands the importance of a smooth transition from the hospital to home. They specialize in identifying potential hazards, recommending modifications, and providing top notch durable medical equipment solutions, ensuring a safe and comfortable environment for post-op recovery.

828-398-8680 Info@Pre-OpSolutions.com Pre-OpSolutions.com SEE PAGE 17 HOSPICE & PALLIATIVE CARE CarePartners Hospice We offer physical, emotional and spiritual support to patients with terminal illnesses. We are dedicated to treating our patients and their loved ones with respect and compassion, and to providing the highest level of comfort and quality of life possible.

21 Belvedere Road, Asheville 828-255-0231 MissionHealth.org/Hospice SEE PAGE 99 Compassionate Care Western North Carolina Their name is their mission - Compassionate Care for the seriously ill. They are the right choice for patients and families in Western North Carolina who want to experience the best quality of life possible for as long as possible.

856 Georges Fork Road, Burnsville 828.682.9675 CompassionateCareWNC.org

SEE PAGE 91

Four Seasons — The Care You Trust With over 42 years of experience, Four Seasons is an award-winning, nationally recognized non-profit organization offering Care Navigation, Home Care, Palliative Care, Hospice Care, and Grief Services.

Serving Henderson and Twelve Other Counties in WNC

866-466-9734 OR 828-692-6178 FourSeasonsCFL.org

SEE PAGE 68

Aging Resources 2023–2024

Ardenwoods Exceptional retirement living in a vibrant, resortstyle community. Offering independent and assisted living with active-lifestyle amenities like chef-prepared dining, miles of onsite nature trails, swimming, a salon and spa, and spectacular mountain views located on 48 serene acres just minutes from Asheville and Hendersonville.

2400 Appalachian Boulevard, Arden 828-484-6744 ArdenwoodsRetire.com SEE PAGE 69 Carolina Reserve of Hendersonville Carolina Reserve of Hendersonville is passionate about caring for our seniors. With decades of service, our assisted living and memory care community is committed to improving residents’ experiences through superior senior living options, expanded services, and new technologies. We invite you to visit today!

1820 Pisgah Drive, Hendersonville 828-633-4688 CarolinaReserveofHendersonville.com SEE PAGE 65

Carolina Reserve of Laurel Park Carolina Reserve of Laurel Park is redefining senior living. Our beautifully designed assisted living community is focused on providing quality care, personalized activities and inspiring social events that enrich the lives of our residents. We invite you to visit Laurel Park and experience senior living at its best.

1825 Pisgah Drive, Hendersonville 828-633-4694 CarolinaReserveofLaurelPark.com

SEE PAGE 65 Carolina Village Henderson County’s only Type-A Life Plan Community, we focus on active, healthy, purposedriven living, providing higher levels of quality care when needed.

600 Carolina Village Road, Hendersonville 828-692-6275 CarolinaVillage.com SEE BACK COVER

AgingResourcesWNC.com

Deerfield Deerfield strives to enrich the lives of those who live and work at Deerfield and commit to be a leader in the field of aging services.

1617 Hendersonville Road, Asheville 828-274-1531 DeerfieldWNC.org SEE PAGE 78 Fletcher Park Inn Fletcher Park Inn- Christian Independent Retirement Community is a multi generational campus that is alcohol & tobacco free which offers vegetarian, vegan and meat meal options. Also conveniently located across from Advent Health.

150 Tulip Trail, Hendersonville 828-209-6930 or 800-249-2882 FletcherParkInn.com SEE PAGE 77 Harmony at Reynolds Mountain Harmony is a vibrant senior living community, founded on the princple of "Family Serving Families." Luxurious, pet-friendly community with mountain views.

41 Cobblers Way, Asheville 828-575-0627 HarmonySeniorServices.com/Senior-Living/ NC/Asheville/Cobblers-Way/ SEE PAGE 74 Heather Glen Heather Glen Assisted Living offers personalized attention to our resident's health needs while helping them maintain an independent, healthy lifestyle. Heather Glen is an active, assisted living community with round-the-clock care for assistance with bathing, grooming and dressing, and medication management.

103 Appalachian Boulevard, Arden 828-532-2071

HeatherGlenRetire.com SEE PAGE 69 Heritage Hills An independent living facility with a dedicated, professional team supporting each resident with dignity and respect through compassionate, personalized care services.

828-698-3866 PacificaSeniorLiving.com SEE PAGE 75

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NC State Veterans Home Providing around the clock skilled nursing care, rehabilitation services and memory support to North Carolina Veterans. A state of the art facility offering private rooms.

62 Lake Eden Road, Black Mountain 828-257-6800 SEE PAGE 67 Pisgah Valley Retirement Licensed continuing care retirement community, independent and assisted living and skilled care.

6 Rhododendron Way, Candler 828-418-2333 PisgahValleyRetirement.com SEE PAGE 66 TerraBella Hendersonville Here at TerraBella Hendersonville, cozy suites and one-bedroom apartment homes, delicious, chefprepared meals, and daily activities and social events make for a richer and more satisfying way of life for resident seniors. That together with attentive care and service from our professional team members make TerraBella our area’s best choice for senior living and a great value amidst a beautiful, mountain backdrop. For unsurpassed care, superior value and outstanding lifestyle quality, choose the same community that our Hendersonville neighbors have trusted for more than 15 years: TerraBella Hendersonville!

3851 Howard Gap Road, Hendersonville 828-537-5773 DSL.Link/WNC SEE PAGE 76 Trinity View Amenities and services including housekeeping, fine dining, recreational activities, transportation, in-house medical visits & therapy without the commitment of an entrance fee.

2533 Hendersonville Road, Arden 828-687-0068 TrinityView.net SEE PAGE 73 Tryon Estates A 215-acre senior community in Polk County providing the most desirable aspects of retirement living in North Carolina. CCRC offering Acts' Type A Life Contract to residents ages 62 and up.

617 Laurel Lake Drive, Columbus 888-523-8961 AboutActs.com/AgingResources SEE PAGE 63

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General Info

Continuing Care Retirement Community Guide Information from the NC Department of Insurance to assist in the search of a CCRC in North Carolina.

NCDOI.gov/Insurance-Industry/ Continuing-Care-RetirementCommunities-CCRC Medicare Compare for Nursing Homes Ratings and services comparison for Nursing Homes.

Medicare.gov/NursingHomeCompare/ Search.html North Carolina Dept. of Health & Human Services Inspection results, licensing, ratings, violations, and penalties for adult-care facilities in North Carolina.

919-855-3765 NCDHHS.gov/DHSR/ACLS/Index.html LEGAL/ELDER LAW/ESTATE PLANNING Edward L. Harrelson, Attorney Romeo, Harrelson & Coiner, P.A.

Providing experienced financial and healthcare planning, wills, trusts, estate administration and real property transactions.

136 South King Street, Hendersonville 828-698-2345 RHC-Legal.com SEE PAGE 97 Knox Law Approaching elder law holistically by offering help with estate planning, asset preservation, guardianships, fiduciary services, and a wide variety of personal support services.

16 Towne Place Drive, Suite 100, Hendersonville 828-513-1600 CKnoxElderLaw.com SEE PAGE 81 LegalShield

David Jordan, Plan Coordinator, Independent Associate

Serving WNC since 1994. Consult on any personal legal issue. Protect yourself and your loved ones with an Estate Family Legal Plan. Qualified NC attorneys on staff. Complete Will packages & POA's done.

Hendersonville, Asheville, and WNC 828-606-6442 https://Jordan64.WeAreLegalShield.com SEE PAGE 95

Aging Resources 2023–2024

Pisgah Legal Services—Protect Seniors End-of-life planning, advanced directives and other legal services for low-income seniors and their families. Serving Buncombe, Henderson, Polk, Transylvania, Madison & Rutherford Counties.

828-253-0406 or 800-489-6144 PisgahLegal.org MEDICAL EQUIPMENT LOAN CLOSETS Durable medical equipment available for loan at no cost.

Asheville Buncombe Community Christian Ministries (ABCCM) 20 20th Street, Asheville, NC, 28806 828-259-5300 | ABCCM.org Medical Loan Closet of Henderson County, Inc. Medical Loan Closet of Henderson County, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that provides durable medical equipment at minimal cost to residents of Hendersonville and surrounding counties.

1225 7th Ave. E., Hendersonville 828-692-9005 MedicalLoanCloset.org SEE PAGE 78 MEDICARE HELP Alignment Health Plan Medicare Advantage Plan

Alignment Health Plan is improving care so that you can be at ease with your healthcare. Choose from a variety of Medicare Advantage plans that offer a comprehensive range of doctors to meet your specific needs.

919-803-4820 AlignmentHealth.com/Locations/ North-Carolina SEE INSIDE BACK COVER Medicare For assistance understanding and navigating the Medicare system visit: Medicare.gov

AgingResourcesWNC.com

ORAL HEALTH S.O.S Senior Oral-Health Services S.O.S. brings oral care specialists onsite to assisted living communities, skilled nursing facilities, and individual homes once weekly to help maintain the oral health of elderly residents. S.O.S. strives to benefit the nursing home community and their staff by providing oral care to the residents who need assistance on a weekly basis. Specialized in preventive oral care. No need for transportation.

828-775-2180 SeniorOralHealth@gmail.com SOSAVL.com SEE INSIDE FRONT COVER PRIVATE CARE MANAGEMENT Aging Life Care Association Information on selecting and a locator for finding aging life-care experts.

AgingLifeCare.org Mountain Area Premier Care Navigation Serving all WNC, Mountain Area Premier Care Navigation matches Aging Life Care™ Managers to seniors requesting guidance for the navigation of the complexities of aging and/or health care services. One-time consultation to ongoing support are offered.

828-772-0002 PremierCareNavigation.com SEE PAGE 68 REHAB/SKILLED NURSING CarePartners Outpatient Rehabilitation With CarePartners, you’ll find a team of compassionate, highly credentialed experts (physical and occupational therapists and speechlanguage pathologists) with experience unmatched by other outpatient rehabilitation providers, and a comprehensive array of outpatient services to help you increase strength, mobility, range of motion and balance.

828-274-6100 CarePartners.org SEE PAGE 99 CarePartners Rehab Hospital An 80-bed inpatient facility for acute rehabilitation, we offer rehabilitation programs for a multitude of illnesses, injuries and conditions, from stroke to traumatic brain injury to amputation.

68 Sweeten Creek Road, #A, Asheville 828-274-6151 CarePartners.org SEE PAGE 99 109

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North Carolina Living Will and Healthcare Advance care directives and health-care power of attorney forms and registry.

SOSNC.gov

AGING RESOURCES DIRECTORY

Carolina Village Rehabilitation Located within the campus of Carolina Village, the Medical Center is available to the community for short term rehab when space is available.

600 Carolina Village Road, Hendersonville 828-692-6275 ext. 214 CarolinaVillage.com SEE BACK COVER

The Laurels of GreenTree Ridge Specializing in short-term rehab from injury, surgery, stroke, and illness. Providing highest levels of clinical care for a multitude of diagnoses.

70 Sweeten Creek Road, Asheville 828-274-7646 LaurelsofGreenTreeRidge.com SEE PAGE 71

FYZICAL Therapy & Balance Centers Specializing in fall prevention and offering fall prevention screenings, FYZICAL believing balance is core to wellness in older adults. Locations in Asheville, Hendersonville, Brevard and Franklin.

FYZICAL.com SEE PAGE 27

The Laurels of Hendersonville The Laurels of Hendersonville has been providing services to this community since 1992. We offer short term rehab, extended care, respite care and Veterans Services. We provide Physical, Occupational and Speech Therapy Services. It is our goal to provide our guests with the best care and services. Check out our Google reviews and call us for more information or to set up a tour. Let us exceed your expectations!

290 Clear Creek Road, Hendersonville 828-692-6000 LaurelsofHendersonville.com SEE PAGE 71

Hendersonville Health & Rehabilitation Specializes in short term care, long term care, respite care, and outpatient therapy in a clean, safe, and professional environment.

104 College Drive, Flat Rock 828-693-8600 SanStoneHealth.com SEE PAGE 29 Life Care Center of Hendersonville With our caring & experienced staff, we are committed to meeting the unique needs and goals of our patients. As you progress in your healing, we will be with you every step!

400 Thompson Street, Hendersonville 828-697-4348 LifeCareCenterOfHendersonville.com SEE PAGE 25

Madison Health & Rehabilitation Madison Health strives to provide a homelike environment with resident centered treatment plans to maximize our residents' quality of life.

345 Manor Road, Mars Hill 828-689-5200 SanStoneHealth.com/ Locations/Madison SEE PAGE 29 StoneCreek Health & Rehabilitation StoneCreek Health & Rehabilitation is a 112-bed skilled nursing facility, specializing in short term rehabilitation and long term care.

455 Victoria Road, Asheville 828-252-0099 SanStoneHealth.com/ Locations/StoneCreek SEE PAGE 29

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The Laurels of Summit Ridge Providing a complete range of services for patients unable to return home after a hospitalization and care for individuals with a wide range of illnesses.

100 Riceville Road, Asheville 828-299-1110 LaurelsofSummitRidge.com

SEE PAGE 71

The Lodge at Mills River A leader in short term rehabilitation. The Lodge offers private rooms for your comfort and rehab needs. Visit our community and dedicated staff today.

5593 Old Haywood Road, Mills River 828-684-4857 SanstoneHealth.com SEE PAGE 29 RESIDENTIAL DOWNSIZING Silver Pathways Consulting Taking the mystery out of downsizing. Silver Pathways helps you create a downsizing plan personalized to your unique circumstances.

20 Peachtree Lane, Hendersonville 828-989-7049 SilverPathwaysHome.com SEE PAGE 61

Aging Resources 2023–2024

Council on Aging of Buncombe County 46 Sheffield Circle, Asheville 828-277-8288 COABC.org/Programs/Caregiver-Support Council on Aging of Henderson County 105 King Creek Boulevard, Hendersonville 828-692-4357 COAHC.org/Caregiver-Services SAFETY General Safety

NC Silver Alert Program NC Department Public Safety disseminates information and issues alerts about missing seniors.

3320 Garner Road, Building 17, Garner Call your local police department or sheriff’s department. | NCDPS.org Smart 9-1-1 - Henderson County Sheriff Online sign up to provide first responders with medical and other important information in advance of an emergency. To sign up, you must register online. The sheriff’s office provides a computer in the lobby for those that want to sign up, but do not have access to a computer at home.

828-697-4596 | Smart911.com Home Management, Errands & Repairs

Seniors Safe at Home Program Council on Aging of Buncombe County Programs include Minor Home Repair, Heat Relief, Call-ARide, and food delivery and food assistance.

46 Sheffield Circle, Asheville 828-277-8288 | COABC.org Telephone Check-In

Buncombe County Sheriff Reassurance Program Senior Check-In Program The Sheriff's office calls enrolled seniors daily to check welfare. Call to sign up.

828-250-4475 | BuncombeCounty.org/Sheriff Henderson County Sheriff’s Office Nixle Emergency Alerts Updates residents in real-time for localized emergencies and relevant community advisories.

Nixle alerts send important and valuable public safety and community information directly to residents. Text your zip code to 888777 from your mobile phone to sign up or visit Nixle.com.

AgingResourcesWNC.com

Henderson County Sheriff Reassurance Program Senior Check-In Program Enrolled seniors call the Sheriff's Office each day to verify their well-being. If a call is not received, the Sheriff's Office checks on the senior. To see if you are located in an area that is covered by the program or to sign up, call 828-697-4912.

HendersonCountyNC.org/Sheriff NCBAM Hope Line The Hope Line of North Carolina Baptist Aging Ministry (NCBAM) offers a free, friendly phone service to help with social isolation and loneliness.

Incoming calls are received daily 9am-9pm at 866-578-4673. Or, request outbound calls at OneHopeNCBAM.org/Call.

Transylvania County Sheriff Reassurance Program Sheriff’s office calls enrolled seniors daily to check welfare. Call for application.

828-884-3168 TCSONC.org/Community/Senior-Programs SENIOR CENTERS Buncombe County

Harvest House Community Center – Asheville Parks and Recreation Physical and social activities for adults and seniors.

Woodshop, weaving studio, clay studio, mosaic glass, dance and exercise classes, social games, billiard tables, day trips and luncheons.

205 Kenilworth Road, Asheville 828-350-2051 | AshevilleNC.gov/Locations/ Harvest-House-Community-Center/ Grove Street Community Center A full schedule of activities and senior dining program.

Lunch reservations required a week in advance.

36 Grove Street, Asheville 828-350-2062 AshevilleNC.gov/Locations/Grove-StreetCommunity-Center/ Haywood County

Haywood County Senior Resource Center Provides older adults in Haywood County with resources, activities, and assistance. View website for calendar of events and resource links.

81 Elmwood Way, Waynesville 828-356-2800 HaywoodSeniors.org

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Mills River Life Enrichment Center (MRLEC) Senior fellowship with a program and lunch every Thursday. Please contact for updates.

Mills River United Methodist Church 137 Old Turnpike Road, Mills River 828-808-5581 | MillsRiverUMC.org/MRLEC Polk County

The Meeting Place A safe, comfortable place to meet friends and enjoy activities. Please visit the website for schedule updates.

75 Carmel Lane, Columbus 828-894-0001 | PolkNC.org 25 Shields Drive, #6, Green Creek 828-863-2795 PolkCountyMeetingPlace.com | PolkNC.org Saluda Senior Center Open weekdays with classes and activities for seniors.

64 Greenville Street, Saluda 828-749-9245 | PolkNC.org Rutherford County

Rutherford County Senior Center Provides senior adults opportunities to help maintain and enhance quality of life, including activities and lunch. View website for calendar.

193 Callahan-Koon Road, Suite 132, Spindale 828-287-6409 RutherfordCountyNC.gov/ Departments/Senior_Center Transylvania County

Silvermont Opportunity Center Providing services and activities to invigorate and enhance the quality of life for adults greater than the age of 60 in Transylvania County. Offers a range of services, activities, programs, and opportunities to encourage active aging and improve the health and well-being of our older adults.

364 East Main Street, Brevard 828-884-3166 | TCPR.RecDesk.com/ Community/Page?PageId=19058 TRANSPORTATION, APPOINTMENTS AND ERRANDS Call-A-Ride Council on Aging of Buncombe County, Inc. Volunteer transportation for eligible Buncombe County seniors who lack access to other forms of transportation. Transportation is limited within Buncombe County.

828-277-8288 | COABC.org 112

Henderson County—WNCSource Transportation Free transportation Assistance within Henderson County for residents over age 60. Weekday trips to congregate meals and light shopping program, medical (non-emergency) transportation to hospital, doctor and clinic sites. Shopping program for county residents. All services based on availability.

828-698-8571 WNCSource.org SEE PAGE 59 Mountain Mobility Mountain Mobility offers no-cost transportation services to seniors age 60 and older in Buncombe County. Their vehicle operators are highly trained professionals who offer door-to-door service and can assist with most mobility needs.

828-250-6750 BuncombeCounty.org/ Transportation SEE PAGE 56 Polk County—Anyone Can Ride Rides by appointment, as well as regularly scheduled shopping trips.

828-894-8203 PolkNC.org/Departments/Transportation Transylvania County Senior Adult Transportation & Med-Drive Rides to nutrition sites, shopping, recreational centers, and medical appointments.

828-884-3203 TransylvaniaCounty.org/Departments/ Transportation TELEHEALTH CareHeartedly Virtual Care Instead of paying for expensive caregiving service, consider virtual care. Safety checks, 24/7 monitoring, companionship and conversation, medication reminders, and so much more. Tablet and vital signs kit provided or bring your own.

Monthly pricing as low as $195/mo. Easy to use.

Safe, effective and seniors love It! 109 S. Main Street, Suite 3, Hendersonville 828-595-5734 CareHeartedly.com SEE PAGE 23

Aging Resources 2023–2024

LIVE YOUR BEST LIFE WITH OUR MEDICARE ADVANTAGE PLANS Alignment Health Plan is improving care so that you can be at ease with your health. With our Medicare Advantage Plan, you get more benefits and rewards, with the level of care you deserve.

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Celebrating

50

active

YEARS

In the five decades folks have called us “home”, they’ve called us something even better, too: “peace of mind”.

While they love the retirement we offer -worry-free independence with supportive services and special activities daily -they most love the first-class health care we offer.

Schedule your tour today. You’ll feel right at home.

Snap this QR code with your smart device to see our campus life!

carolinavillage.com, 828-692-6275