/Sr_Resource_Gulde_10

SR SENIOR RESOURCE

GUIDE

2010 Sponsored by:

Greenwood Memorial Park and Funeral Home

and

Special supplement published by the Kent Reporter & Renton Reporter

HEALTH FINANCE

TRAVEL LIFESTYLE

2 ❖ SENIOR RESOURCE GUIDE 2010 Kent Kent Police

Emergency: 9-1-1 Crime Tip Line: 253-856-5808 Kent Senior Activity Center offers a wide variety of services, workshops, trips and volunteer opportunities.

600 E. Smith St. Kent, WA 98030 253-856-5150 senioractivitycenter@ ci.kent.wa.us Circulating Shuttle of Kent is FREE and travels in several loops that reach Kent’s shopping areas, medical facilities and senior housing.

Schedule a pick-up: 866-261-3278 Metro Rider Information: 206-553-3000 Toll Free: 800-542-7876 Hearing Impaired: 206-684-1739 transit.metrokc.gov Kent Regional Library 212 2nd Ave. N. Kent, WA 98032 253-859-3330 Mon-Thur 10am to 9pm Fri 10am to 6pm Sat 10am to 5pm Sun 1pm to 5pm City of Kent Home Repair Assistance for low and moderate income homeowners. (Includes single-family homes, qualified mobile homes, and condo units within Kent city limits.) You must qualify for this service and complete an application process.

For more information or to request an application packet, call 253-856-5065 or email humanservices@ ci.kent.wa.us

413298

City of Kent Resource & Referral Line can assist Kent residents to find many human services.

253-856-5062

Renton Renton Police

Emergency: 9-1-1 Non-Emergency: 425-430-7500

Renton Senior Activity Center is a drop-in facility for ages 50 and over.

211 Burnett Ave. N. Renton, WA 98057 425-430-6633 Renton Express is a Minibus transportation service for seniors to the Renton Senior Activity Center.

For reservations and more information, call 425-430-6637 Renton Public Library Main Branch 100 Mill Ave. S. Renton, WA 98057 425-430-6610 Highlands Branch 2902 NE 12th St. Renton, WA 98056 425-430-6790 City of Renton Housing Repair Assistance Program (HRAP) for City of Renton low-income resident homeowners. You must qualify for this free service and complete an application process.

For more information call 425-430-6650 or email humanservices@rentonwa.gov Download an application at: www.rentonwa.gov (Search “HRAP”) Renton Community Resource Directory is available for download online (rentonwa.gov) in 13 languages.

Or call 425-430-6650 Monday to Friday 8:00am to 5:00pm, to request copies.

Renton Information and Referral Line for many different local health and human services.

425-430-6650 TDD: 1-800-833-6388

King County & Washington State

Information & Referrals to health & human services in King County including: legal help, caregiver resources, health care, utility assistance, disability services and more: 2-1-1 TDD: 206-461-3610

Senior Services of Seattle-King County provides information and referrals for people 60 and over.

2208 2nd Ave. Seattle, WA 98121 206-448-3110 or 1-888-435-3377 or 1-888-4-ELDERS www.seniorservices.org King County Home and Community Services provides help for adults needing Medicaid to pay for care.

206-341-7750 or 1-800-346-9257 TDD: 1-800-833-6384 Area Agency on Aging provides help for seniors to find a wide range of help. AAA also provides resources for family or friends caring for seniors.

206-684-0660 or Toll Free: 888-435-3377 Washington State LongTerm Care Ombudsman Program advocates for people living in licensed, long-term adult care facilities.

206-623-0816 vickie@fremontpublic.org Adult Protective Services investigates alleged abuse of people living in their own home.

1-866-221-4909 TDD: 1-800-977-5456 Senior Housing Assistance Group (SHAG) provides affordable rental apartment living for seniors and disabled seniors. Must qualify for housing based on age and income.

1-888-450-7424 American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) helps those 50+ “improve the quality of their lives.”

AARP Washington State Toll Free: 1-866-227-7457 waaarp@aarp.org Des Moines Area Chapter 18010 8th Ave S. SeaTac, WA 98148 Meets 3rd Thursdays at 11:15a.m.

Renton Area Chapter 211 Burnett Ave. N. Renton, WA 98057 Meets 3rd Fridays at 1:00p.m.

413381

4 ❖ SENIOR RESOURCE GUIDE 2010

KENT REPORTER / RENTON REPORTER

Nursing Homes aren’t “Old Folks Home” Anymore

By Regency at Renton Rehabilitation Center www.regencyrenton.com

N

ursing Homes aren’t old folk’s homes anymore.

Nursing Homes or Rehabilitation Centers as they are now known, offer short rehabilitation stays, whether you have had a joint replacement or simply need some TLC after a hospital stay due to illness. These stays provide physical, occupational, and speech therapy in tandem

with skilled nursing care to help you get on your feet again. Each individualized short term stay varies from a few days to a few weeks and can even last a few months depending on your needs and how quickly you recover. Frequent care conferences with you and your family meeting with the care team to discuss your progress and plans to reach your goals keep you in total control of your care. Most rehabilitation centers work with a multitude of insurances including Medicare, Medicaid, and private and managed care insur-

ances. Good rehab centers will get in touch with your insurance company before hand and let you know exactly what your insurance benefits are including length of coverage time and co-pays. To make your stay as accommodating as possible plan on taking some personal items with you. Bring items from home that will make you feel more comfortable. Women prefer their own pillow or a comfy robe while men favor their electric razors and alarm clocks. Whatever your situation, look for the Rehabilitation Centers most conveniently located for your family and friends to visit.

Call and talk with the admission coordinator, drop in for a tour and meet the therapists.

Secrets of a great massage

(ARA) - If you’re among the Americans whom the National Center for Health Statistics says spent $22 billion on visits to complementary and alternative medicine providers in 2007 (the latest year for which data are available), you’ll want to get the most benefit and the best value out of your massage therapy visit.

The experts at Cortiva Institute offer some advice for how to partner with your therapist to find the massage that’s right for you: • First, find the right therapist. Look for a therapist with good listening skills.

• Clearly explain your needs to the therapist. If your priority is pain relief, tell the therapist and explain where it hurts the most. Be sure to discuss any medical or health problems that you want to address.

•Ask the therapist to educate you by explaining the types of massages and their different benefits.

• Don’t feel you have to settle for the menu description of a particular service. Ask the therapist to provide more details.

You can learn more about massage therapy and massage therapy careers at www.Cortiva.com.

Use Your Dental Benefits we are your Place for comPlete Dental care • Family Dentistry • Dental implants and Dentures • Experienced long-term staff • Saturday appointments available • Most insurance accepted • “Care Credit” payment plan Dr. Patrick l. mcKenzie, Dr. anna a. Danieli & Dr. will chung

Don’t forget to use your dental benefits by the end of 2010. Why miss out on coverage for the best in complete dental care?

We look forWard to your family joining our dental family.

West View Building 1900 S. Puget Drive, Ste. 102 Renton, WA 98055 425.228.1521

Call today and schedule cleanings, checkups or other necessary procedures for you and your family.

Our entire staff is committed to providing your family with the best in complete dental care.

Dr. anna a. Danieli Family Dentistry

www.danielidds.com 415167

SENIOR RESOURCE GUIDE 2010 ❖

KENT REPORTER / RENTON REPORTER

5

Choosing what’s best

Traveling with disabilities

By Shelley Thompson General Manager, Merrill Gardens at Renton Center

By Lorraine Glenn, ctc psa, Owner/Manager Travel Leaders/Travel Network Kent

O

ne of the benefits for seniors living in Washington is the progressive approach providers take in offering everything from event specific programming to housing and long term care. The downtown Renton area is a great reflection of an integrated picture that offers walkable access to a number of options for our seniors including the senior center, medical care, library, banks, retail, grocery, transit, and recreational options like the Cedar River trail.

With discussions about health care playing out on the national stage, seniors are encouraged to focus on what keeps them healthy over the long term. As providers, we target the importance of an approach that looks at the whole person and visualize our role as a wheel with different spokes that support the strengths or our seniors. The goal is to encourage them to socialize with peers and friends, stay physically active and healthy, engage

in dynamic intellectual activities, and honor spiritual connections.

Merrill Gardens at Renton Centre is a retirement and assisted living community that promotes lifestyle programs to meet those needs. Building and maintaining social relationships coupled with physical activity is the hub or our wheel.

All the different spokes add support for things like enjoyable dining experiences that offer choice and variety. The diversity of our residents’ life experience and education encourages intellectual engagement through continued learning and exploration locally in the community.

Independence is supported with transportation for everything from shopping, to the symphony, to the doctor.

When we listen to the concerns of our family members about the seniors in their lives, peace of mind and quality time together are always at the forefront of any discussion. As providers and part of our larger “community”, we strive to find and contribute to the smooth roll of the wheel for all of our seniors and their families.

F

or seniors, traveling with disabilities and medical conditions can be a challenge. However, “knowing in advance what to do can make traveling much easier and safer”, says Lorraine Glenn CTC owner and manager of Travel Network Kent/Travel Leaders since 1985. Let your airline or travel agent know in advance if you will require assistance at the airport. The airline will assist you through the airport facility and the screening queue line.

If you require a companion or assistant to accompany you through the security checkpoint to your gate ask your airline representative about obtaining a gate pass for the companion before entering the security checkpoint. Pack your medications in a separate pouch or bag in your carry on to facilitate the inspection process. Make sure all medication is clearly identified. If you bring your own wheelchair or walker it is not considered baggage so there is no cost for these items. Bring contact information in case of emergency. Wear comfortable clothing and shoes. Oxygen on board varies by airline so if this is a need it is very important to check with your airline well in advance.

All the airlines require first, middle and last name, date of birth and gender at time of booking your travel plans. Your information should read exactly as it does on your drivers license or passport. This is a rule as of November 1, 2010.

Make sure the cruise line and hotel knows of any special needs: i.e. handicap room, special meals, insulin, oxygen. For more information go to www.tsa.org. travelers

Creating Sensational Smiles Dr. Odegard can help you achieve the smile of your dreams and improve your oral health. Our friendly and professional staff will insure that your experience will be comfortable and easy. We provide comprehensive oral health care in an uplifting environment.

• Smile Makeovers and Cosmetic Dentistry • General Dentistry for Adults and Children • Dental Implants and Oral Surgery • Dental Cleanings and Periodontal Care • Oral Sedation (Relaxation) Dentistry for fearful or apprehensive patients

Enjoy your visit.

Complete Family Cosmetic Nice people & Restorative Dental Care and a fun place 451 Duvall Ave NE, Renton WA 98059 to go!

Dr. Robert L. Odegard, D.D.S., M.A.G.D.

After

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Member of ADA, WSDA Monday - Thursday 7:00am - 5:00pm

425-277-4000 • www.drodegard.com 415202

Where you live can change how you live.

6 ❖ SENIOR RESOURCE GUIDE 2010

SHORT OF BREATH?

By Renee Foote, Clinic Administrator West Coast Therapy

M

Enjoy premier retirement living at The Lakeshore!

• Located on the southern tip of Lake Washington with views of the lake and Mount Rainier • Studio, one bedroom and two bedroom residences • Pea patch gardening and indoor gardening room • Well-appointed library • Small pets welcome • 24-hour staff • Resident call system and daily courtesy check-in • Weekly housekeeping and linen service • Group and personal transportation • Personal Care and Supportive Health Services • Short Stay/Respite • Memory Fitness Support

ost seniors feel that when they are feeling more and more short of breath and fatigued that it is due to the aging process. When in reality there are ways to help you feel stronger, more steady on your feet, less short of breath, and able to live life independently and carry out your activities of daily living such as walking around in the home, cooking, cleaning, carrying objects like grocery bags, ambulating in the community, and returning to activities you enjoy doing.

Yes there is help for this!

Certified clinics can offer services like Respiratory Therapy, Physical Therapy and Social Services if needed. They focus on people that have lung conditions including Emphysema, Asthma, Chronic Bronchitis, Bronchiectasis, Pneumonia, Stroke, and many more.

Respiratory Therapists are able to teach you how to breathe effectively, understand respiratory medications, and help increase your endurance. Therapists can help with people on oxygen or who are not on oxygen but struggle on a daily basis with shortness of breath.

Physical Therapists are able to improve your strength, and balance. Help you walk up and down stairs , increasing your confidence that you will not fall, ambulating in the community, and simplify things around your home that you struggle to complete.

These programs are covered by Medicare and other insurance companies. Certified clinics are different than your average Physical Therapy Clinic, because they are staffed with both Physical Therapists as well as Respiratory Therapists and have Social Services available as needed.

If you or any family members have problems with breathing, understanding need for medications and oxygen, poor balance and or weak muscles, this environment would be a perfect fit.

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KENT REPORTER / RENTON REPORTER

SENIOR RESOURCE GUIDE 2010 ❖

7

Durable Power of Attorney For Healthcare

By Beth McDaniel Law offices of Beth McDaniel

W

ho would make healthcare decisions for you if you were unable to do so yourself? Washington law determines who makes such decisions if you have not previously specified.

Unfortunately, the decision-makers, for example, your children, may not agree with each other. In addition, even with agreement, the care facility may be unwilling to proceed with a risky procedure without a court order. Or, a decision could be made which is contrary to your preferences and values. If there are no suitable decision-makers, the court may appoint a guardian to make your healthcare decisions. It is better to select your own Attor-

ney-in-Fact for Healthcare under a Durable Power of Attorney for Healthcare Decisions.

Selecting the right Attorney-inFact for Healthcare Decisions is important. The individual must be reliable and trustworthy. In addition, the Attorney-in-Fact should be someone with whom you feel comfortable sharing very personal preferences and values about medical and end-of-life care. The Attorney-in-Fact must be able and willing to carry out your preferences, even if they are different from his or her own preferences and values.

The Attorney-in-Fact should be someone who can be an advocate for your preferences whether dealing with care providers or other loved ones.

Unless he or she is your spouse,

registered domestic partner, child, or brother or sister, the law prohibits your physician or an employee or administrator of the healthcare facility in which you may be receiving treatment from serving as your Attorney-in-Fact. In addition, an Attorney-in-Fact must be age 18 or older.

Washington law sets the basic powers that you can give to your Attorney-in-Fact: • Consent to or refuse medical procedures; • Make healthcare and medical treatment decisions; • Consult with physicians and other healthcare providers; • Obtain medical records and make inquiries about your health condition; • Employ and discharge care

providers; • Make arrangements for your care at home, a hospital, nursing home or any similar facility.

The document should also explicitly include for a “HIPAA” release, which specifically authorizes healthcare providers and institutions to disclose to your Attorneyin-Fact medical information related to your care.

Appointing an Attorney-inFact for Healthcare Decisions is the best way to ensure that your values and preferences will be met with the least amount of delay and expense should you become unable, for whatever reason, to make your own healthcare decisions. Contact me regarding this important document.

Experience Affordable Senior Living at its Finest SHAG—affordable living for active seniors.

SHAG’s Kent communities are designed especially for active, mature adults living on limited incomes—offering affordable rents, including all utilities. Enjoy unexpected amenities—indoor community rooms, outdoor courtyards, and lots of planned activities. Small pets are welcome. To learn more about the good life at one of our Kent locations, where the rents start at $534, give SHAG a call today.

“At SHAG, I exercise my independence.”

Tell ‘em Winnie sent you!

Check out our six Kent locations!

Call for more details 1-888-680-5189.

To learn about our 27 locations visit: www.housing4seniors.com Senior Housing Assistance Group (SHAG) is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing quality, affordable rental apartment homes and promoting an active and fulfilling lifestyle for people aged 61+ or 55+ and disabled. Certain age and income restrictions apply. SHAG currently operates affordable senior living communities in 27 locations in the Puget Sound region, from Olympia to Bellingham, including 6 locations in Seattle.

WINIFRED (AKA WINNIE) P., AGE 71

SHAG Resident & World Champion Powerlifter 420546

8 ❖ SENIOR RESOURCE GUIDE 2010

KENT REPORTER / RENTON REPORTER

Potentially increase your lifespan by 30 to 50 percent

By Dr. Jonathon Wright Tahoma Clinic

B

io-identical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) is the replacement of hormones for post-menopausal women and older men with hormones exactly identical to what their own bodies made when they were younger. In addition to proven reduction of risk of Alzheimer’s disease, other cognitive malfunction, atherosclerosis, heart attack, and osteoporosis for both men and women, one of the biggest benefits of BHRT is increased life span.

Of course, even though it makes sense that BHRT would have the same lifeextending benefits for men and women, so far studies have only confirmed this benefit in men. But that’s starting to change.

In November 2009, researchers re-

ported the results of a controlled statistical analysis of 16,000 women using “hormone” replacement therapy (“HRT”). All of the women were postmenopausal but under 60 years of age.

The analysis covered 19 trials of at least six months duration each, done between 1966 and 2008.

These research trials didn’t even use the safer, more effective BHRT, but made use of horse hormones and synthetic pseudo-estrogens and pseudo-progesterone (also called “progestins”). So how can this analysis possibly tell us anything about BHRT and longevity if none of the studies reviewed actually used BHRT? It all goes back to one of the basic “laws of Nature & Creation”: Molecules evolved or created to function in our bodies will always do better than inexact copies of those same molecules.

For example, real arms work better

than artificial arms, real teeth better than false teeth, etc. And the same holds true for hormones. Bio-identical estradiol, estriol, progesterone, and testosterone simply work better than equilin, medroxyprogesterone, and methyltetosterone.

So we can look at the outcome of this “HRT and longevity” analysis, and confidently predict that BHRT will do even better.

Here’s what the authors of this analysis found: The overall mortality for women using HRT decreased by 28 percent compared with non-HRT users.1 If synthetic HRT can give postmenopausal women under 60 a 28 percent lower risk of dying, just imag-

ine what real BHRT can do. There’s no reason we can’t expect at least 29 percent. But, more likely, it could decrease mortality risk in women by as much as 50 percent in the under-60 age group-and at the very least, cut risk by 40 percent among women under 70.

Certainly, mortality will always be 100 percent eventually. But with BHRT added to your other “healthy living” habits, you’re much more likely to see not only your grandchildren but even your great-great grandchildren!

Salpeter SR, Cheng J, Thabane L, et al.

“Bayesian meta-analysis of hormone therapy and mortality in younger postmenopausal women.” Am J Med. 2009; 122(11): 1,0161,022

Traveling smart with diabetes

(ARA) - Medications are part of a daily routine for people with diabetes. In fact, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 87 percent of adults diagnosed with diabetes take either insulin, oral medications or both.

For these individuals, traveling requires a bit of extra planning.

CVS Pharmacist Martha Zavala reminds people that the first step to making sure you are prepared for a safe trip is to talk to your doctor or pharmacist about what to pack. The American Diabetes Association recommends that you bring twice as much medication and testing supplies as you need when traveling. Keep a stocked carry-on bag with you so necessities are always nearby.

Proper medication storage is important to keep in mind. Body heat can upset the makeup of a drug, so don’t store pills in a pocket or otherwise near your body.

The supplies needed to manage diabetes at home and on the road can be expensive. One way to save is the ExtraCare Advantage for Diabetes program from CVS/pharmacy. More information on the program and diabetes care can be found at the CVS/pharmacy Diabetes Care Center.

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KENT REPORTER / RENTON REPORTER

Giving the gift of compassion (ARA) - When Sharon Saxelby’s first grandchild was born last year, she knew baby Reece would be showered with generosity by other family members, friends and well-wishers, and she was right. But, as president and CEO of a nonprofit organization called Friends of the Orphans, which transforms the lives of children in need in Latin America and the Caribbean, Saxelby was thrilled that one of the most thoughtful gifts Reece received wasn’t an expensive stroller or baby play mat.

Colleagues from work, in the spirit of celebrating Reece’s birth by helping those less fortunate, made a monetary donation in her name to their charity.

Saxelby was touched by the gesture and so were Reece’s parents.

As the hectic holiday season once again approaches, gift givers frantically compile their annual lists: an iPad for their spouse, a PS3 game for their tween son, pricey jeans for their high school junior. According to the National Retail Federation, in 2009 the average amount spent on holiday gifts,

food and decorations was $682.

When looking at the escalating cost and proliferation of electronic gadgetry, the clutter of DVDs, books or clothes and the time spent trying to find that special trinket, givers are realizing they could do a lot better. Creative gift giving or charitable contributions in the name of others is a lasting way to make an impact and transform the lives of those desperately in need.

Not to mention the fact that the gift of nonprofit giving will withstand the next technology iteration and continue long past this year’s fashion fad.

When heavy charitable hitters Bill Gates and Warren Buffett announced in early August their “Giving Pledge,” a recession-inspired commitment to sign over at least half of their assets to nonprofits over their lifetime or after their death, they hoped to inspire others to contribute to worthy causes as well.

For organizations like Friends of the Orphans, which supports more than 3,600 orphaned, abandoned and

SENIOR RESOURCE GUIDE 2010 ❖ disadvantaged children in nine Latin American and Caribbean countries, this commitment to help children in need, resonates especially powerfully this year.

“Realizing that if each family donated just 10 percent of their estimated holiday spending to a charity instead of spending it on material gifts, many recipients who are deprived of life’s most basic needs would be afforded the chance for a brighter new year,” Saxelby explains.

“For instance, an amount as small as $12 can provide a child with no shoes a brand new pair, or $100 can provide one of our children anti-retroviral HIV medication for one month. When put into the right perspective, it’s easy to see how a small amount can have a huge and lasting impact.”

Each charitable organization has different methods of encouraging holiday giving, and each is an important part of the vitality and growth of the nonprofit.

This year, Friends of the Orphans has created a unique and memorable way donors can help children in need, especially during the Christmas season. The 2010 Gift Catalog, at www.

9

friendsoftheorphans.org/GiftCatalog, allows visitors to learn about the special Christmas celebrations each orphanage has, and through donations either in their own names or on behalf of others, provide useful and appreciated gifts to the children.

Saxelby says that for the thousands of children Friends of the Orphans raises, Christmas is an especially poignant time for them, because for many, it is the first time they have felt love, warmth and hope for their future.

“Watching a happy child enjoy holiday traditions, a warm meal and then open up a bag of gifts containing shoes and clothes, when perhaps a year ago they were homeless and afraid, and knowing that our supporters make that transformation possible, is a very powerful thing,” she says.

The holidays are all about celebrating, and regardless of which organizations donors choose to contribute to, giving can make their season more rewarding and truly enrich the lives of those less privileged. Realizing that you are able to transform someone’s life is often the best gift of all. For more information about Friends of the Orphans, visit www.friendsoftheorphans.org.

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10 ❖ SENIOR RESOURCE GUIDE 2010

KENT REPORTER / RENTON REPORTER

New Advances in Dental Implants Stop Bone Loss and Improve Chewing

By Dr. Robert Odegard DDS

A

n estimated 100 million Americans experience problems associated with missing teeth such as the inability to smile with confidence, difficulty chewing, talking or laughing and embarrassment eating in public. The problem is more serious because tooth loss causes facial bone loss and collapse of facial structures creating an old person appearance.

The solution is Dental Implant Treatment, today’s state of the art alternative to traditional methods of tooth replacement. Unlike dentures

or partials, dental implants are actual teeth replacements that are inserted into the jaw and they prevent bone loss that occurs when teeth are missing. “As substitute tooth roots, dental implants provide virtually the same function as natural tooth roots: maintenance of bone and the preservation of facial structures,” says Dr. Robert Odegard DDS who provides implant and cosmetic dentistry in the Renton Highlands. “If a person is going to lose a tooth or multiple teeth, they should have implants placed in order to prevent significant bone loss and to preserve their facial appearance,” says

Dr. Odegard.

Dental implants can significantly improve the lives of people who wear dentures or partial dentures. With little or no discomfort, dental implants can be placed to secure the dentures in the mouth or they can replace the denture all together. Because the dentures will no longer move or slip, the improvement in chewing and eating is immeasurable. Often the patient can keep their same dentures and have them snap on to the implants for improved retention and stability. The patient enjoys much more confidence and a better quality of life.

Dental Implants have a 95-

99% success rate, are painless to place and are one of the easiest procedures for the patient. Because they are made of titanium, they do not corrode, decay, break down and they are biologically compatible. Once the teeth are attached to the implants it is nearly impossible to tell the difference between real teeth or implants in the way they bite, feel or look. The best part is that they impart a youthfulness to the person who has them and they preserve the persons facial bone for life.

There really is no other dental tooth replacement that compares to dental implants.

Dr. Odegard is a Diplomat

in the International Congress of Oral Implantology and a Master in the Academy of General Dentistry. He has been able to help patients as young as 19 to as old as 95 who have had teeth replaced with dental implants. “I am amazed at how many seniors and people in their 70s or 80s have come in to my office wanting to get rid of their dentures or get their missing teeth replaced with dental implants, says Dr. Odegard.

They feel that they are never too old to enjoy new technology and improve the quality of their life. I agree with them and I enjoy helping them improve their lives.”

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KENT REPORTER / RENTON REPORTER

A Consumer’s Guide to

Selecting A Lift Chair

By Patricia M. O’Brien, Director of Marketing Golden Technologies

S

electing the right lift chair is as important to some end users as selecting the right physician. There are many models of lift chairs available from a variety of manufacturers, just as there are many physicians out there who can treat the same ailment or disability. But the question as to which lift chair will give you the comfort and performance you need is as complicated to answer as asking which doctor will give you the type of care that you need. There are several questions to ask when selecting a lift chair for yourself or as a gift for a loved one: How much does the person who will use the chair weigh? The right fit is critically important when it comes to lift chairs, more than for any other piece of furniture. Make sure the chair has the proper weight capacity. If someone weighs 280 lbs. and a chair’s weight capacity is 300 lbs., then it would be wise to consider a chair with a higher weight capacity to accommodate for future weight gain. The person’s height is another important factor when considering the right lift chair. When the chair is fully reclined, the person’s head should lay comfortably on the headrest, with their feet positioned just off the footrest.

When seated, they should be able to sit

comfortably back against the backrest, with the front edge of the seat positioned just behind their knees and their feet resting comfortably on the floor. Lift chairs are available in weight capacities up to 700 lbs. and come in a variety of sizes for people of different heights.

How will the chair be used? If the end user will spend a majority of the day in his lift chair and/or sleep in it every night, then a lift chair that offers infinite positioning – where the backrest and footrest operate independently of one another – should be selected. Infinite position lift chairs allow users to lay flat and adjust the angle of the backrest and footrest independently in small increments to find a position that will be the most comfortable for long term daily use.

Why does this person need a lift chair?

Is it to relieve a temporary health issue or is it for a permanent disability? If the end user is recovering from a knee or hip replacement, and plans in the future not to rely on the lift mechanism to get up and down from the chair, then selecting a less expensive, two-position chair with basic features would most likely suffice. However, if the end user is suffering from a permanent disability, or a progressive illness, it would be recommended for them to purchase a lift chair that has additional options that they may need in the future, such as infinite positioning.

How much space is available in the

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SENIOR RESOURCE GUIDE 2010 ❖ room where the lift chair will be placed?

Depending on the size of the lift chair and whether it has a two-position, threeposition or infinite position design, a lift chair can need as much as 18” to 22” of space from the wall to achieve a full recline, as well as the clear space in front of the chair to recline fully. Some manufacturers offer models that require only 6” of space from the wall for a full recline, but the chair will extend farther out front as it is fully reclined. It is highly recommended that the end user try the chair and check the manufacturer’s specifications for the overall length of the chair when fully reclined to make sure it will fit in the room where it will be used.

Are there incontinence issues or other issues in place that would impact the type of fabric selected for the chair? In the lift chair world, selecting the right fabric is more than just finding a color that matches someone’s décor. Fabric is a key component of selecting a lift chair, particularly for someone who is incontinent or will spend many hours each day in their lift chair. Some manufacturers offer fabrics with stain protection; or vinyl fabrics that will reduce the amount of moisture that passes through the fabric to the foam inside the chair. Check with your dealer regarding the types of fabric available and how easily they can be cleaned.

What is the difference between a twoposition, three-position and infinite position lift chair? A two position chair has a sitting position, and does not allow for independent movement of the backrest and footrest. The angle between the backrest and the seat never changes as the person reclines. A two-position chair is generally a manufacturer’s most economical chair sold at their lowest price.

A three-position chair offers a seated

position with a slight recline of the backrest; as well as a recline position. The angle between the backrest and the seat of the chair does expand and change as the chair reclines.

An independent or infinite position chair allows for a larger range of motion between the backrest and footrest so that the chair can recline back to a full sleep position. Some manufacturers offer an advanced infinite position chair that allows for the backrest to recline separately from the footrest.

A zero-gravity chair offers more advanced positioning than an infinite or independent recline mechanism chair and allows the end user to be placed into the zero-gravity position, which provides balanced support of the entire body, reducing pressure on any one particular area of the body. This allows the customer to feel as though they are floating on the chair and they feel virtually no pressure.

A limited number of lift chairs are designed to place the user’s head below the feet into the Trendelenberg position, which has numerous health benefits to relieve swelling in the lower extremities, improve circulation and increase breathing capacity. The Trendelenburg position also helps stretch the lumbar area of the back for increased comfort.

What are the warranties and what type of service will I get after the sale? Every manufacturer has different product warranties, so check that carefully with your dealer or through the manufacturer’s website. Higher quality chairs (which tend to be the most expensive) offer better warranties on their wooden frame, lift mechanism and electronics. Be sure you understand from your lift chair provider how they work with the manufacturer in the event of an issue with your lift chair.

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12 ❖ SENIOR RESOURCE GUIDE 2010

What Do I Do When a Loved One Dies?

Submitted by Albertson Law Group, P.S.

The death of a loved one is emotionally trying for family and friends. Proper estate planning will make it easier. Even so, there are a lot of matters to handle during this difficult time.

There are a number of things to do right away, including: obtaining 6-10 certified copies of the death certificate; notifying the Social Security Administration if the decedent was receiving Social Security benefits; contacting decedent’s life insurance companies; checking on debts, credit cards, and installment payment; arranging for payment of retirement plan benefits; and finding the decedent’s original Will, Living Trust, and/or a Community Property Agreement.

Within the first month, you should make an appointment with an attorney who specializes in estate planning and probate (such as Albertson Law Group, P.S.) to discuss how to settle the estate, including whether a probate is required.

If a probate is required, it should be opened by filing a petition with the probate court, including an oath from the personal representative, and filing the Will.

The Will should be filed with the court within 40 days of the death.

Within several months, depending on the administration required, the estate’s debts and assets may need to be inventoried; a Tax Identification Number obtained; and notice to creditors given. Before nine months pass, an estate tax return may need to be filed and, if called for or advisable, a disclaimer of assets filed. In due time, creditors’ claims must be satisfied, any Testamentary Trust(s) created by Will or Living Trust should be funded, and distributions made.

This summary is not exhaustive, but it does cover many of the major tasks.

There is a lot to do. Getting skilled guidance as early as possible can make the process go much more smoothly, and avoid unfortunate and costly mistakes. For assistance and answers to your questions, contact us at Albertson Law Group, P.S. Our attorneys are skilled in helping you make important decisions during this difficult time.

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SENIOR RESOURCE GUIDE 2010 ❖

KENT REPORTER / RENTON REPORTER

13

Four smart home and auto insurance tips for seniors

(ARA) - Senior citizens can save money and headaches with four simple insurance tips. These can help ensure you’re adequately covered and getting all eligible discounts.

“Home and auto insurance needs change at every stage of life,” says Charles Valinotti, senior vice president of QBE Regional Insurance, which underwrites property and casualty coverage through the General Casualty, Unigard, Farmers Union Insurance and QBE Agri brands. “Seniors may not realize that downsizing from a home to a condo or driving less could have important implications for their insurance.”

Tip one: Make sure you have enough contents coverage, especially if you’ve downsized. If you’ve moved from a home to a condo or apartment, there’s a good chance you’re underinsured.

Tip TWO: Schedule your valuable items or collections. If you have antiques, china, silverware, jewelry or other valuable items or collections, ask your insurance agent about scheduling it (also called floater or inland marine coverage).

Rehab Center Gives Seniors a Breath of HOPE ARE YOU OR A LOVED ONE: • SHORT OF BREATH? • ON SUPPLEMENTAL OXYGEN? • STRUGGLING TO COMPLETE ACTIVITIES SUCH AS SHOWERING, COOKING, OR CLEANING? • AFRAID OF FALLING? • FEELING LIKE YOUR MUSCLES ARE GETTING WEAKER? We are an Outpatient Clinic that provides help to all of the above situations, plus more! Our patients refer to our clinic as “More than a work out facility…it is a family, our family”.

Respiratory Therapy Services offers help for individuals with any lung condition including COPD, Emphysema, Chronic Bronchitis, Asthma, Pulmonary Fibrosis, along with others.

Additionally we have Physical Therapy Services. Treatment is covered by Medicare and other insurance companies. Must be referred by your physician.

Tip THREE: Take a driver safety course. While your state might not require you to take a course, you may get a significant discount on your auto insurance for opting to take one.

Tip FOUR: Tell your agent if you’re driving less. Maybe you’ve stopped driving after dark. Or you now only drive in town. If you’re driving a lot less these days, you may be able to change your driver status on your auto policy from primary use to occasional use. And that could mean lower insurance rates.

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14 ❖ SENIOR RESOURCE GUIDE 2010

KENT REPORTER / RENTON REPORTER

What Every Senior Should Know About Falling 1. Begin a regular exercise program

By Hugh Straley, M.D, Chief Medical Office Puget Sound Health Partners

I

am 68 years old and very active. I have ridden a bicycle from Seattle to Portland several times. I have hiked 15 miles without a problem. I never thought I was at risk to fall and injure myself. At age 65 when walking down stairs while making rounds at a hospital I slipped on a step and fell down hitting my head and lacerating my scalp. I was lucky that I was not more seriously injured. Anyone can slip on stairs. I slipped because I am no longer as flexible, as strong or as coordinated as I was at 55 or 45 or 17. I have a greater risk of falling than my younger friends and colleagues. Now when going down stairs I always use the hand rail.

The facts about falls among us seniors are well known: • Every year one third of those over 65 and living at home will fall • If living in a long term care facility more than half of us will experience a fall within two years.

• In this age group falls are the leading cause of injury deaths which is about 15,000 nationwide.

• The older we get the greater risk we have for falling and experiencing severe injury.

• We are more likely to fall if we take any kind of sedating medication, drink alcohol, have poor vision or have known weakness or numbness in our arms or legs.

• Everyone must accept that with age comes some decrease in balance, strength, and flexibility.

So what can you do to reduce your risk of falling?

Many falls can be prevented by doing a few simple things. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention has four recommendations to reduce the risk of falling.

Exercise is the most important way to lower your chances of falling. It makes you stronger and helps you feel better. Exercises that improve balance and coordination (like Tai Chi) are the most helpful. Any type of exercise for any period of time is better than none. The more you exercise the better your chances are at maintaining strength and balance. Lack of exercise leads to weakness and increases your chances of falling. Most local health or fitness clubs have strength building programs for seniors. You can also ask your doctor or health care provider about the best type of exercise program for you.

2. Have your health care provider review your medicines

As you get older, the way medicines work in your body can change. Some medicines, or combinations of medicines, can make you sleepy or dizzy and can cause you to fall. All medicine both over the counter and prescription medications should be reviewed.

3. Have your vision checked

Have your eyes checked by an eye doctor at least once a year. You may be wearing the wrong glasses or have a condition like glaucoma or cataract that limits your vision. Poor vision can increase your chances of falling.

4. Make your home safer

About half of all falls happen at home. To make your home safer: • Remove things you can trip over (like papers, books, clothes, and shoes) from stairs and places where you walk.

• Remove small throw rugs or use double-sided tape to keep the rugs from slipping.

• Keep items you use often in cabinets where you can reach easily without using a step stool.

• Have grab bars put in next to your toilet and in the tub or shower.

• Use non-slip mats in the bathtub and on shower floors.

• Improve the lighting in your home. As you get older, you need brighter lights to see well. Hang light-weight curtains or shades to reduce glare.

• Have handrails and lights put in on all staircases.

• Wear shoes both inside and outside the house.

Avoid going barefoot or wearing slippers • Use a sturdy stepstool with a handrail and wide steps instead of a ladder.

In summary all seniors must know that they are at risk to fall. Men especially are reluctant to admit that they are getting older and need to modify their behaviors to account for less strength and mobility. Every senior should have an exercise program, emphasizing strength, balance, and flexibility. The more we do the better prepared we will be, thus boosting our confidence. We should avoid risky medications and excessive alcohol use. We need our vision checked and corrected when possible. Finally we need to be thoughtful about making our homes as safe as possible. It is never too late to begin now. Following these simple steps will reduce your chances of falling so you can enjoy a more full and active life.

For more information about Puget Sound Health Partners programs visit us online at www.ourpshp. com or contact us at 1-866-789-PSHP (7747) days a week.

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SENIOR RESOURCE GUIDE 2010 ❖

KENT REPORTER / RENTON REPORTER

15

How health care reform affects your Medicare enrollment (ARA) - Health care legislation passed earlier this year may make Medicare annual enrollment season particularly challenging for the millions of baby boomers aging into Medicare and for seniors already enrolled who are considering different coverage for 2011. Annual enrollment runs from Nov. 15 to Dec. 31, allowing people to select their Medicare coverage for 2011.

“Choosing a Medicare plan can be overwhelming in any year,” says Adrienne Muralidharan, senior Medicare specialist for the Allsup Medicare Advisor, a Medicare plan selection service for people with disabilities and those 65 and older. “However, this year there are not only the usual changes, such as premium and coverage changes, you also need to understand how the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act may affect your 2011 Medicare coverage.”

According to Muralidharan, the most important ways the new health care legislation will affect Medicare beneficiaries for 2011 include: • Prescription drug costs should be lower in the “doughnut hole.” For

2011, Medicare beneficiaries will receive a 50 percent discount for the cost of brand-name prescription drugs and a 7 percent discount for generic drugs they are taking while in the prescription drug doughnut hole.

• Medicare Part B (medical insurance) will fully cover preventive care. Beginning in 2011, Medicare beneficiaries will no longer have to pay deductibles or co-pays for preventive services that fall under U.S. Preventive Service Task Force guidelines, such as an annual wellness exam.

• More beneficiaries may have higher costs for Medicare Part B and Part D (prescription drug) coverage.

The Part B income threshold freezes at the 2010 levels through 2019. As a result, individuals with modified ad-

justed gross income (income) exceeding $85,000 and married couples with income exceeding $170,000 will have to pay higher premiums. Because this will not adjust with inflation, it’s likely more people over time will be subject to higher premiums. In addition, the law reduces the Medicare Part D premium subsidy for individuals with incomes above these levels.

• Opportunities to change coverage after the annual enrollment period will be more limited. Historically, an open enrollment period ran from Jan. 1 through March 31, immediately after annual enrollment ended. During open enrollment, people were able to switch from their existing Medicare plans to similar Medicare coverage, choosing from “like to like” options.

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Now, open enrollment has been replaced with a shorter annual disenrollment period, which runs from Jan. 1 through Feb. 14. During this period, the only change that can be made is to disenroll from a Medicare Advantage plan in order to enroll in traditional Medicare and join a Medicare Part D plan. Other selections will not be available to consumers.

“It’s easy to get confused over the various Medicare enrollment periods,” Muralidharan says. “However, it’s now more important than ever to look at annual enrollment as your main opportunity to choose your coverage.”

Reasons to review your medicare coverage Changes brought on by health care reform are just one reason people should evaluate their Medicare coverage. Each year, individuals with Medicare should consider different health care coverage if they experience any of the following: • Your health situation has changed in the past year.

• Your provider situation has changed (for example, you hospital

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• Your coverage has changed (for example, certain drugs, procedures or conditions are no longer covered).

• Your plan premiums and/or copayments have increased.

• You have moved to a new location.

• Your current plan no longer will be available.

Additionally, people now turning 65 and becoming Medicare-eligible for the first time should carefully review their options - and make certain they follow the enrollment guidelines.

Failing to do so can trigger costly penalties and may mean certain coverage is unavailable in the future.

“The choices you make about your Medicare coverage can have a significant effect on your health care and your finances,” says Muralidharan. “If you are uncertain about which Medicare plans are available to you, or which would best meet your needs, seek help before enrolling.” More information on Medicare plan selection assistance is available at Medicare.

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SENIOR RESOURCE GUIDE 2010 ❖

KENT REPORTER / RENTON REPORTER

17

Dementia is a thief

I

really don’t like dementia. I mean I REALLY don’t like it!

Dementia is a thief. It steals people, their personalities, their abilities, their lifestylesw…I really don’t like Dementia!

Sometimes the thief works quickly. Sometimes it works slowly and laboriously, as if it enjoyed stealing inch by inch.

My Uncle George knew the thief was at work and quietly went about making preparations for his future reality. Uncle George was a scientist. He contracted for NASA and spoke to corporations about technology. He was using multimedia technology in his presentations before most people had even heard of multimedia! What I’m saying is,

Uncle George was a smart man. It must have given him a great deal of pain to know that he would gradually lose so much to the thief.

Retirement was a gradual process for Uncle George. He and Aunt Helena, my mother’s sister, moved from the cold of the Midwest winters to the sunny warmth of Arizona. In fact, they purchased a home just a couple blocks from mom and dad’s home. He accepted fewer and fewer speaking engagements as he relaxed into the comfortable rhythm of ‘Snowbird living.’ Leisurely walks, picnics in the desert, day trips to Sedona or Lake Pleasant, evenings playing Whist or Rummy soon became the norm.

Summers, while still spent in the Midwest, were now spent on the golf course. Life was good!

Then came the thief.

Complaining was not Uncle George’s style. Uncle George did not tell anyone about the thief. They sold their house and moved back to the village of their childhood. A condo would suit their needs very well at this point. Friends and family did not understand the change and Uncle George did not explain.

He calmly proceeded to make the necessary arrangements, putting finances in order, updating insurance policies, etc. Aunt Helena should have no worries in that area.

Gradually the thief made itself known. Aunt Helena started doing all the driving, because Uncle George couldn’t remember how to get places. Sometimes he asked her to leave the house because his wife would be home soon and shouldn’t find her there. She would jokingly tell him that she was the only wife

he had and they would laugh together.

Too soon it became evident that Uncle George was no longer safe in the condo. Aunt Helena could not monitor his activity twenty-four hours a day. Their children came to help make the decision to move Uncle George to an Assisted Living Community that specializes in Dementia Care. Aunt Helena spends nearly every day with him, leaving town only to attend her granddaughter’s wedding and to spend holidays with her family.

The children and grandchildren come to town to visit regularly, but Uncle George no longer knows them. In fact, Uncle George no longer knows that Aunt Helena is his wife, but he is always glad to see her. How her heart must ache. How much she must hate the thief!

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18 ❖ SENIOR RESOURCE GUIDE 2010

KENT REPORTER / RENTON REPORTER

Consequences of untreated hearing loss

Technology makes it easier than ever to age gracefully

By Shawn Utigard, Sound Associates Hearing Centers

(ARA) - Technology is making aging less conspicuous. Advances in optometric science and great design have turned glasses into style statements worn by people of all ages.Products like bifocal contact lenses and virtually invisible hearing aids can make some of the natural bodily changes associated with growing older seem less obvious and reduce their impact on a person’s quality of life.

For people with mild to moderate hearing loss, modern hearing aids not only reduce background noise, cut static, make it easier to hear on the phone and can be controlled remotely, some are virtually invisible as well. Because invisible hearing aids are inserted deep into the ear, near the eardrum, they require less power and amplification. And the snug fit makes them more comfortable to wear.

Starkey’s new invisible in the canal hearing aid, OtoLens, is invisible when worn because it sits within the second bend of the ear canal. Unlike other “invisible” in-canal hearing aids, this one can be removed by the wearer every day; other brands require a visit to an audiologist to insert and remove the aid, or even to change its batteries. Daily removal can promote better ear health. Digital signal processing ensures clear sound in nearly every situation. Log on to www. starkey.com to learn more.

T

he reasons for not treating hearing loss are numerous but it usually comes down to one of three thing; vanity, denial or cost. However a study by the National Council On the Aging reports that seniors that used hearing aids expressed improved relationships with family and improved mental health.

The study also cited that untreated hearing loss among seniors has serious emotional and social consequences.

The NCOA study went on to state; Older people with hearing impairments that go untreated suffer many negative effects. Compared to hearing impaired people who use hearing aids, those who do not use hearing aids are more likely to report; sadness and depression; worry and anxiety; paranoia; less social activity and involvement; emotional turmoil and insecurity. These differences remain unaffected after controlling other variables such as age, gender and income.

With todays technology your hearing care provider can provide the best possible hearing solutions in a very discrete package. Not only is the hearing loss important in choosing a hearing aid but evaluating the individuals lifestyle plays a big part in choosing a hearing aid that meets their needs.

Knowing that treating a hearing loss is imperative to a health social lifestyle and mental outlook and that the new technology provides better and more discrete hearing solutions than ever before, senior with hearing loss are running out of excuses for not treating their hearing loss.

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