/2011HowToGuide

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March 25, 2011 [11]

www.kirklandreporter.com

HOW TO GUIDE 2011

Choosing a new home, lifestyle for your loved one

M

private residence. any people have “A good way to examine concerns about this is to use a comparison retirement. But one of the most difficult deci- worksheet to compare a simple monthly rental fee to the sions is where to move when true costs of maintaining a that house you have made private residence,” said Mera home becomes too big or rill Gardens general manager physical assistance is too far Stuart Ostfeld. “Even when away. Here are some general seniors are no longer making tips from Kirkland’s Merrill mortgage payments on a Gardens retirement comprivate home, they still have munity for choosing a new place to call home during the to worry about the cost of property taxes, golden years. insurance, reOne of the “Assisted living pairs, yard work biggest questions retirement and utility bills, for those on a communities are which can add fixed income is based on a social up quickly.” price. The cost model. They are Many people of retirement designed for are surprised at living will vary seniors who want how affordable with location, to maintain their assisted living apartment size, independence and is when they amenities and lifestyle.” consider what is added services. Stuart Ostfeld included in the At Merrent. rill Gardens, Most retiremany things are ment commuincluded in the rental price, including activi- nities are private rentals and differ from skilled nursing ties, transportation, househomes, which is covered by keeping, cable TV, utilities and meals in the community Medicare or health insurance. Some long-term care dining room. Residents usually enjoy the insurance policies will cover some or all of assisted peace of mind they achieve knowing that they (and their living costs. Some veterans can also qualify to receive families) no longer have to worry about the expense and some financial reimbursement through the Veterans time required to maintain a

Five top questions to ask

1

What is your loved one’s needs physically and medically?

2

How will the price compare to your loved one’s current lifestyle?

3

Is your loved one qualified for some financial assistance?

Merrill Gardens General Manager Stuart Ostfeld sits with long-time resident Jane Smith and her son Steve Smith in the dining room of the assisted living facility. Administration. Some retirement communities, including Kirkland’s Merrill Gardens, have state-sponsored programs for some seniors that meet certain income requirements. There are many things to consider outside of price to make a good decision. Consider if the person is able to manage daily tasks and living functions. If not, they may need more assistance. If

there is someone who is able to take care of that person that should also be taken into consideration. If the person wants more activities and the opportunity to interact and make new friends that is also something to look for. Every community offers something different. And while most nursing homes are based on a medical model, assisted living is

based on something else. “Assisted living retirement communities are based on a social model,” said Ostfeld. “They are designed for seniors who want to maintain their independence and lifestyle.”

To learn more about Merrill Gardens at Kirkland, call 425-828-2570 to schedule a tour today.

4

What are the needs of your loved one socially?

5

Is there already someone available for care of your loved one?

please join us for a seminar series

Retirement Living How-To Learning Series Join us for this informative, inter-generational seminar series on how to plan for a positive transition to retirement living. Less Is More Wednesday, April 13

3 – 4 pm

The Family Love Letter Wednesday, April 27

6 – 7 pm

Caring for Two Generations Wednesday, May 18 The Family Love Letter Wednesday, June 1 Home Sweet Home Wednesday, June 8

3 – 4 pm

6 – 7 pm

3 – 4 pm

Free to the public. RSVP required.

We Hope You Will Join Us!

462261

at kirkland A one of a kind retirement community

(425) 828-2570

201 Kirkland Avenue • Kirkland, WA 98033 www.merrillgardens.com

Retirement & Assisted Living

License #BH 2027


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