Senior Living 10-06-16

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Choosing a Medicare plan and supplemental insurance Earning income while providing care to a loved one When it’s time to move from Medicare to Medicaid Where to find the nearest senior center in Queens

SENIOR LIVING GUIDE • Fall 2016

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HEALTHY AGING

by JONATHAN ECKSTEIN, D.O.

SENIOR LIVING GUIDE • Fall 2016

Whether you’re concerned about weight gain, chronic diseases or sex drive, the key to healthy aging is a healthy lifestyle. Eating a variety of healthy foods, practicing portion control and including physical activity into your daily routine all go a long way to promote healthy aging. And it’s never too late to make healthier lifestyle choices. There are no quick ½\IW JSV LIEPXLMIV EKMRK WS FI GEYXMSYW [MXL supplements or expensive treatments.

As you get older, good nutrition plays an important role in how well you age. A lowsalt, low-fat diet with fruits and vegetables can reduce age-related risks for disease.

Protein is necessary to maintain and rebuild muscles. Try to integrate a variety of lean TVSXIMR WSYVGIW WYGL EW TSYPXV] ½WL ERH IKKW or egg substitutes. We utilize carbohydrates as our body’s preferred source of energy;

however, you should avoid simple sugars and concentrated sweets, especially drinks and foods with added sugar. Fat also provides energy, but you should limit the saturated fats from meats, butter and cheese. Poly- and mono-unsaturated fats from corn oil, olive oil, avocados and nuts are a preferred alternate to keep cholesterol levels lower.

By following some basic dietary changes, overall improved health can be achieved. Keep in mind that these changes should be looked at EW PMJIWX]PI QSHM½GEXMSRW XLEX [MPP FIRI½X ]SY moving forward. A common mistake is dieting to lose weight and then reverting back to an unhealthy lifestyle. A gym is not a necessity to create a healthy lifestyle. Adding just 3050 minutes per week of exercise can help to make these changes more visual as we tend to

look at our bodies. Some simple changes such as parking at the farthest furthest spot available and walking this distance to the mall, the library or the grocery store can add up to 15-30 minutes per week.

A muscle reconditioning program or regimen can help you stay at a healthy weight as muscle cells are the major calorie burners in our body.

8EOI XLI WXEMVW JSV SV ¾MKLXW FIJSVI [EMXMRK for the elevator. Or consider a reconditioning program at the local community center. And chair exercise classes are a great way to start off exercising if you haven’t been moving regularly. Just make sure to drink plenty of water to replace water lost through activity.

The key to healthy aging is to make the lifestyle GLERKIW 2S UYMGO ½\IW 2S QEKMGEP TMPPW Better eating and a basic exercise regimen.

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C M SG page 3 Y K Page 3 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, October 6, 2016

Questions About Medicaid Eligibility P&P MEDICAID CAN HELP! If you are struggling to find long-term health care solutions for you or a loved one, including Medicaid eligibility, we can help. P&P Medicaid has helped thousands of Long Island and New York City families qualify for Medicaid, allowing our clients to protect their homes, assets, income and other resources.

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QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, October 6, 2016 Page 4

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REHAB RESULTS! with

PARTICIPATING ADVERTISERS Acousticon of Flushing All Metro Health Care Elder Care Services Fidelis Healthcare Flushing House Hospice of New York Humana Isabella House Margaret Tietz Nursing OrCam Inc. P&P Medicaid Consulting Parker Jewish Institute Healthcare Plattduetsche Home Preferred Home Care Queens LI Renal Institute 77 Cleaning Senior Services of North America Stairglide NY St. John’s Episcopal Hospital St. Michael’s Cemetery

CONTENT Choosing a Medicare plan and supplemental insurance

Page 6

Earning income while providing care Page 10 to a loved one When it’s time to move from Medicare to Medicaid

Page 14

Where to fi nd the nearest senior center in Queens

Page 18

Publisher - Mark Weidler Section Editor - Peter C. Mastrosimone Marketing Coordinator - Debrah Gordon Layout - Terry Nusspickel

HOW ARE THE

2017 MEDICARE CHANGES GOING TO AFFECT YOU? It is important to understand your options so you can avoid any mistakes that can adversely affect your coverage. Speaking with a trained Senior Health Insurance Representative who represents all of the Major Carriers, can simplify this complex process…

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SENIOR LIVING GUIDE • Fall 2016

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SENIOR LIVING GUIDE • Fall 2016

Open Enrollment runs from October 15-December 7, 2016

Senior Living Guide

What Medicare does and does not cover

by Mark Lord

companies charge exorbitant amounts for the supplemental coverage, so shopping around is strongly advised.

“It is important to search several health insurance companies for the best prices because the plans are all the same,” he said.

He estimated that for $354 a month, most individuals should be covered, with $104 going toward Parts A and B and an additional $250 toward the supplemental coverage. “If you didn’t apply for Medicare and had private insurance, it would cost more than $1,000 a month,” he said. “And you can’t get any better insurance than Medicare and the supplemental coverage.”

Part D provides outpatient prescription drug coverage. Costs vary by plan.

You can sign up for free for Part A, if eligible, any time during or after the initial period.

If you have to buy Part A and/or Part B, you can only sign up during a valid enrollment period. In most cases, if you don’t sign up for Part B when first eligible, you will have to pay a late enrollment penalty for as long as you have Part B and you could have a gap in your health coverage.

According to Medicare.gov, in order to enroll, you must first find out if you are eligible. To do so, you will be required to answer questions concerning your date of birth, how many years you have worked for which you paid Medicare taxes, if you live in the U.S. or one of its territories, if you get group health benefits through your or your spouse’s current employer, and if you are already enrolled in Part A or neither Part A nor Part B. By inputting this information, the site will be able to help you determine when you would be eligible, whether you’ll receive Parts A and B automatically or if you would need to sign up, and how much your premium would be.

If you have other health insurance, you need to learn how Medicare works with the other insurance. If you’re retired and have coverage from your former employer, you must find out what happens to the coverage when you’re eligible for Medicare.

If you’re retired and have Medicare and group health plan (retiree) coverage from your former employer, generally Medicare pays first for your healthcare bills and your group Q health plan coverage pays second.

Chronicle Contributor

“Explore. By exploring you will gain.”

Those are the cautionary words of Jack Lippmann, president of Elder Care Services, Inc. in Forest Hills, when it comes to getting Medicare coverage for you and your loved ones.

And with the assistance of experts like Lippmann and websites like Medicare.gov, the official United States government site for Medicare, the task doesn’t have to be as daunting as it might seem at first.

The federal health insurance program for people who are 65 or older and for certain younger people with disabilities, Medicare is managed by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. Social Security works with the CMS by enrolling people in Medicare. But they are not the same, Lippmann points out, adding that people often confuse the two.

An individual is entitled to apply for Social Security benefits beginning at age 62. Eligibility for Medicare comes approximately three years later, with initial eligibility beginning three months prior to one’s 65th birthday, Time to explore your options for Medicare — open enrollment runs Oct. 15 through Dec. 7. extending through one’s birth month, and conEven if Medicare covers a service or item, tinuing for the next three months, giving new Medicare Advantage Plan (or Part C). Some people opt for additional coverage like Medi- you generally have to pay your deductible, coenrollers a seven-month window.

Open enrollment for 2017 coverage begins care Supplement Insurance (which, along with insurance and co-payments.

Medicare covers 80 percent of medical bills Parts A and B, is also replaced by the MediOct. 15 and runs through Dec. 7.

“I’ve noticed a lot of people neglect to file care Advantage Plan) or Medicare outpatient and, to cover the difference, many elderly individuals opt for Medicare Supplement for Medicare,” Lippmann said, sometimes prescription drug coverage (or Part D).

Part A covers hospital insurance and Insurance, generally at a cost of $200 to $300 because they are still working or because they already have another form of health insurance. includes inpatient care at a hospital, skilled per month.

Another option is a Medicare Advantage nursing facility or hospice. It also covers sevThat can prove a costly mistake.

And, it is equally important to learn what eral services, including laboratory tests, sur- Plan, or Part C, which replaces regular Medicare and the supplemental insurance. Signing Medicare does not cover as what it does cover. gery, doctor visits and home healthcare.

Medicare.gov suggests that you usually up for Part C places an individual in a health Among the items Medicare does not cover don’t pay a monthly premium maintenance organization, or HMO. Members are long-term (or custodial) for Part A if you or your spouse of HMOs must generally get a referral from care, most dental care, eye paid Medicare taxes while their primary care physician in order to see a exams related to prescribing working. If you have to buy specialist or other doctors. glasses, dentures, cosmetic surMedicare.gov indicates that each Medicare Part A, you will pay up to $411 gery, acupuncture, hearing aids per month. There is also a Advantage plan can charge different out-ofand routine foot care. deductible of $1,288 for each pocket costs, which depend on many factors, Home-care ser vices can benefit period, as well as co- including whether the plan charges monthly become prohibitively expeni n s u r a n c e t h a t i n c r e a s e s premiums; whether it pays any of your Medisive, with fees generally rundepending on the length of the care Part B premium; whether it has a yearly ning around $23 per hour. A deductible or any additional deductibles; and hospital stay. stay in a nursing home could Part B covers medical insur- how much you pay for each visit or service. r un as high as $12,000 to Lippmann warned that some insurance ance, and it covers doctors’ and $15,000 per month, of ten other healthcare providers’ serdepleting life savings in a short period of time.

Not applying for Medicare vices, outpatient care, durable According to elder law attor- would be a costly mistake, medical equipment, home healthcare and some preventive ney Ronald Fatoullah of Forest expert Jack Lippman says.

Hills, Medicare pays in full for PHOTO BY MARK LORD services.

Most people pay a premium the first 20 days in a nursing home and partially for an additional 80 days, of $104.90 each month for Part B if they sign Weekday/Weekend hourly & Live-In Full & Part Time leaving the patient responsible for what he up when first eligible, though this amount can CERTIFICATION PREFERRED called a “pretty significant” co-payment. In go higher depending on income. The premium Work in Queens and Nassau County Areas addition, he pointed out, to be eligible, an is generally deducted directly from a person’s individual must have a skilled-care need, such Social Security. There is also a $166 annual All shifts available! English Speaking & Bilingual a plus! deductible and co-insurance. After the deductas physical therapy.

Hourly & Live-In positions available Long-term care insurance might be a solu- ible is met, an individual typically pays 20 for immediate placement tion. It covers home care, assisted living care percent of the Medicare-approved amount for and nursing home care. Unfortunately, many most doctor services.

Email your resume to: If you need certain services that Medicare people are not able to take out insurance due nlippa@All-Metro.com doesn’t cover, you will have to pay for them to cost or an existing physical condition.

Still, Medicare has much to offer. There are yourself, unless you have other insurance or Call 516-887-1200 Patty x2107 – Leslie x2131 two main ways to be covered: the original you’re in a Medicare health plan that covers or apply in person Mon-Fri 9:30am-3:00pm at: 170 Earle Avenue, Lynbrook NY 11563 Medicare (also known as Parts A and B) or a those services.

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SENIOR LIVING GUIDE • Fall 2016

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Pooled trusts help you protect your disabled loved ones A trust is a way to distribute assets to a beneficiary in which a trustee, or the person in control of the working trust, is assigned. There are different types of trusts that are set up for specific purposes. One type of trust is a special needs trust, which is created for beneficiaries with disabilities. Under a special needs trust, there is what is known as a pooled trust, also called a community or master trust.

With a pooled trust, the trust assets of multiple individuals are combined, and then distributed proportionately.

Some pooled trusts are created in order to care for the disabled beneficiaries, and others are set up just to manage money properly. Typically, these trusts are run by a nonprofit organization, and no two are identical. When setting up a pooled trust, an individual contract is written to reflect individual circumstances.

When it comes to Medicaid, a pooled trust is a way to enable an individual to qualify while still being able to use their income to pay bills. Typically, to qualify for Medicaid, an individual must “spend down” their income to $825 for singles and $1,210 for couples, after a $20 income disregard. Any money above these amounts must be paid back to Medicaid, or to other medical bills. The issue with this in New York is that the cost of living is so high, individuals are unable to pay basic bills, such as rent and utilities, on the Medicaid-allowed spend-down amount. This is the reason why many people are unable to afford to go on Medicaid, or why they do not qualify.

With this in mind, pooled trusts offer a solution. A qualifying disabled individual can participate in a pooled trust by depositing the amount of their spend-down/overage amount. This can then be used to pay necessary bills, allowing the individuals to use all of their money in some

fashion. There is an initial fee of $300 and a monthly banking and yearly fee, but, all in all, a pooled trust can allow for Medicaid coverage without a spend down.

There are some other advantages in choosing a pooled trust. One, a trustee is not named as in a regular trust. There are directors of the trust who likely have experience in the area, but not a specific trustee. Sometimes, it is difficult for family members to choose a trustee, and this alleviates the pressure of having to do that. Another advantage is that a pooled trust does not require individuals to have a large amount of money as regular trusts require. Lastly, with a pooled trust, the organization is well-versed on agency law and how Social Security insurance and Medicaid programs work. This knowledge can help the beneficiary fully understand how the programs and the trust intertwine.

There are some disadvantages to a pooled trust as well.

A few of the basic drawbacks include the inflexibility of the pooled trust, infrequent distribution of funds and limitations on the types of investments it allows. However, these issues are generally specific to the pooled trust in which you choose to participate.

Understanding the advantages and disadvantages thoroughly and consulting with an experienced advisor is essential to ensuring access to care while protecting your assets. P&P Medicaid Consulting, Inc. has been helping clients structure pooled trusts so that there is a reduction in monthly income overages. P&P Medicaid provides Medicaid application services. The company also provides a full range of geriatric care management services to help individuals and their families make decisions about and supervise their long-term care needs. Contact P&P Medicaid Consulting, Inc. at (516) 541-4770 for more information.

OrCam’s Breakthrough Assistive Technology Device Delivers Independence to People Who are Blind and Visually Impaired Revolutionary Advances in Wearable Artificial Vision Have Transformed the Lives of New Yorkers Living with Sight Loss “It relaxes you, makes you feel safer.

You experience less tension. OrCam gives information, leading to self-reliance.” This assertion by Allan Mabert, who has experienced deterioration of vision over the years to the point where he can now only perceive light, comes from Allan’s embrace of OrCam’s artificial vision technology.

OrCam Technologies, the artificial vision innovator for people who are blind or visually impaired, has introduced its breakthrough device in New York. The world’s most advanced wearable assistive technology solution, OrCam MyEye communicates visual information by instantly reading any printed text as well as recognizing faces of individuals and identifying products. “OrCam is an assistive device, the support it provides is very convenient, discreet and simple to operate,” explained Allan.

OrCam has dramatically improved Allan’s independence and now plays a vital part in his daily life. Almost unnoticeable, the device is a tiny camera that fits on the side of almost any eyeglasses frame. The back of the camera is positioned toward the ear, without

blocking it, and speaks to the wearer.

The inconspicuous OrCam camera and speaker, connected to a processing unit that fits in a pocket, converts visual information into the spoken word. Any text – on any surface – is naturally readable, including newspapers, books, computer screens, restaurant menus, labels on supermarket products and street signs.

OrCam’s device is so perceptive that it reacts to the most natural of human gestures – pointing. When Allan wants something to be read to him, such as a newspaper article about the Mets, he simply points at it. The revolutionary visual recognition technology which powers the OrCam device instantly converts the text into audio.

Every OrCam MyEye device is handdelivered by a certified OrCam Trainer™ who teaches each new user how to incorporate the device’s technology into daily life. Demonstrations of OrCam MyEye, free of charge, can be arranged through the company’s website: www.orcam.com.

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Flushing House Independent Living - Who We Are

SENIOR LIVING GUIDE • Fall 2016

Practically nonexistent a few decades ago, retirement residences similar to Flushing House now number in the thousands across the United States. However, most of these facilities are real estate developments, owned by large, for-profit corporate chains, and they’re a lot more expensive than Flushing House! As a not-for-profit, we pioneered our unique living arrangement, which we called Congregate Living. But our residents don’t have to share rooms to keep costs down! They enjoy their own private, spacious apartments. They are free to come and go, to entertain family and friends, and to make their own fi nancial decisions.

In addition, we provide a full range of communal services to assist residents with daily tasks, such as restaurantstyle dining with continental breakfast, lunch and dinner served in our beautiful dining room, housekeeping and linen services, a concierge, 24-hour security, a comprehensive activities program featuring state-of-the-art computer learning and fitness centers, Wi-Fi, arts and crafts room,

S

eniors know from experience that life is a challenge.

Many may face limited choices when deprived of complete independence by advancing age. Do you move in with your children? Do you agree to a nursing home? What options are available to you?

concerts, movies, game nights and weekly trips on our own bus! Catholic, Jewish and Protestant religious services are held weekly in our interfaith chapel.

For the convenience of our residents, Flushing Hospital Medical Center operates a satellite Geriatric Clinic right on the premises with physicians and nurses who are experts in the care of older adults. Two New York State-licensed home healthcare agencies are available on-premises to provide personal services such as assistance with bathing, hygiene and dressing, as well as self-medication management. Residents may use these or any service providers of their choice.

Why is Flushing House so different from most of those other retirement communities? Because as New York State’s largest not-for-profit, Independent Living retirement community, the mission of Flushing House must always come fi rst: to provide a safe, enjoyable and affordable retirement experience for our residents.

Please call our Marketing Department at (718) 762-3198 or (888) 987-6205 for a brochure or to arrange a visit.

Apartments start at $2,600 per month with all services included. Please call for information. www.flushinghouse.com

Retirement residences which combine Independent Living with supportive services on-premises have recently become a popular alternative in the U.S. In Queens, Flushing House is known as a pioneer in such communities. Built in 1974 as a not-for-profit Independent Living retirement community, Flushing House was one of the first ones to offer older adults an alternative and affordable retirement experience.

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QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, October 6, 2016 Page 10

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Senior Living Guide

Family, friends can be hired as caregivers

by Michael Gannon Chronicle Contributor

Finding a caregiver for a senior citizen can be a painstaking and worrisome task.

But a relatively new program allows seniors or those making their medical decisions to hire their own care personnel — including a family member, a neighbor or a friend — to serve in the role and be paid through Medicaid.

The Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Program allows a patient to hire the caregiver of his or her choice, enabling them to hire someone they know and trust to provide the necessary assistance.

“There are two types of home care,” said Danny Perry director of communications for Independence Care System, a nonprofit that serves seniors in Queens and throughout the city.

“There is the traditional type of home healthcare, and there are probably over 100 agencies across the city that provide that,” he said. “The Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Program is just that — consumer-directed. It’s a Medicaid program that allows the patient to be the one to actually hire, train and supervise a home healthcare aide.”

Perry said there are advantages, such as the trust a senior could have with a qualified family member, neighbor or member of a church with whom the client is comfortable.

The client, much like any other employer, is responsible for making sure that all paperwork to pay the person is taken care of, such as timesheets, and arranging for things like days off.

The hours that are worked are determined by the patient’s insurance company.

The CDPAP option might not be for everyone, with each

Federal regulations allow many seniors the option of choosing and hiring their own home health caregivers — including a family member or friend — with Medicaid paying the person’s salary if FILE PHOTO the patient and worker both qualify. senior having to consider someone based on his or her own personal needs.

Some clients might only need help getting around, or

assistance bathing, dressing and using the bathroom.

Patients with more specialized needs would have to take their own particular circumstances into account before making a decision.

Perry said many traditional home healthcare aides are not qualified to do things like administer insulin, draw blood or insert a catheter. Someone who might need one or more of these, or other more advanced care, would have to take such matters into consideration.

To be eligible for enrollment, the patient must be en rolled in Medicaid and require home healthcare assistance.

Family members above the age of 21 can be eligible for selection.

Numerous sources state that no formal training or certification is necessarily required, and that any skill needed to care for a given patient usually can be taught by the patients themselves.

Those seeking to qualify for a CDPAP position must be legally permitted to work in the United States. Multiple sources say the applicant also must have undergone a full physical examination, including complete lab work within the previous year.

Further information on the CDPAP programs and related self-directed services is available online at medicaid.gov; from the state at health.ny.gov/health_care/medicaid; or through a patient’s insurance company.

A number of private and nonprofit groups in Queens provide free help and information on CDPAP and other programs for those who are interested.

So, too, do numerous consumer protection and advocacy Q organizations.

THE TRUTH ABOUT MEDICAID Many seniors don’t know that Medicaid is there to help them too, or believe that the process to get benefits is inflexible and uncaring. With our guidance and support, there’s no reason why seniors can’t become eligible and receive the benefits they need and are entitled to.

We’re here to help!

“Protect your life savings, your monthly income and homes, and at the same time apply for Medicaid medical assistance at home or in a nursing home.”

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©2016 M1P • ELDC-070446

SENIOR LIVING GUIDE • Fall 2016

The Truth is: ANYONE can become Medicaid eligible

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By Alexander Clague Humana Medicare President

T

• Original Medicare (Parts A and B), basic coverage for medical expenses without coverage for most prescriptions. There is cost-sharing, or copays, coinsurance and deductibles for coverage through Original Medicare.

must continue to pay your Part B premiums.

Some of these plans offer additional features designed to meet members’ needs, such as dental, hearing and vision coverage, a nurse advice line and fitness programs.

Once you choose the type of Medicare plan that best fits your needs, research the costs, benefits and network of doctors and hospitals associated with each plan. Make sure your hospital and doctors are included.

Features such as wellness programs and personal care management services can be valuable in helping you achieve or maintain the level of health you want throughout 2017.

• Medicare Advantage (Part C), which covers everything Original Medicare covers and may include extra benefits, services and One easy way to compare Medicare often prescription drug coverage through a Advantage and Prescription Drug Plans is by private insurer. Medicare Advantage is used instead of Original Medicare for those who taking a close look at Medicare Star quality ratings, a one- to five-star scale, with five sign up for these health plans. stars awarded to the highest quality plans.

• Medicare Prescription Drug Plans (Part D), coverage for prescription medica- Resources, like www.Medicare.gov and tions, which may lower prescription drug www.humana-Medicare.com, can help you make the right choice as you identify expenses.

• Medicare Supplement Plans, which the best plan for you before the Dec. 7 pay some costs not paid by Original Medi- enrollment deadline. care, like deductibles and coinsurance.

You can also call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) or TTY: 1-877-486-2048 Medicare Advantage plans are steadily gaining popularity, with the number of 24 hours a day, seven days a week for 2017 enrollees more than tripling since 2004 to Medicare plan information.

17.6 million or nearly a third of Medicare With any election, it is important to beneficiaries, according to the Kaiser Family remember that your decision can have a Foundation.

Compared to Original Medicare, Medi- long-term impact for the future. So, this care Advantage plans often include lower fall, be prepared to make the choice that copays, lower or no deductibles, and zero or helps you take the next step toward being low monthly plan premiums – although you a healthier you.

SENIOR LIVING GUIDE • Fall 2016

his fall, as Americans make their choices in a host of local, state and national elec tions, including 2016 presidential, gubernatorial and congressional races, seniors and those eligible for Medicare in Queens must pay special attention to the decisions they face during another important election— the Medicare Annual Election Period (AEP).

During this year’s Medicare AEP, which lasts from Oct. 15 to Dec. 7, it’s important for people with Medicare to understand that the choice they make can affect their health throughout 2017. As with any major decision, thoughtful research will go a long way toward making the best care coverage choice that maximizes value based on your individual health needs.

The first step in making your choice matter is reviewing your current Medicare health plan and analyzing how much you’ve spent on health care during the past year, including hospital expenses, pharmacy costs and doctor bills. This will help to determine, to the best of your ability, the health care expenses you can expect in 2017 and whether your

current Medicare health plan still meets your needs.

Similar to voting for elected officials, it is important to research all available choices, determine their impact on your life and be comfortable with your choice. Options for people with Medicare include:

Page 11 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, October 6, 2016

Medicare Annual Enrollment Signals Another Important Election This Fall

QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, October 6, 2016 Page 12

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Isabella, located in verdant Northern the non-profi t, non-sectarian organization Manhattan, provides high quality care and offers moderately-priced senior housing, an diverse programs designed to promote inde- adult day healthcare program, child day care, pendence and healthy living. “Our residents home care as well as short-stay rehabilitation. have the flexibility to live their own lives Residency in Isabella House also provides free yet have support services available if they membership in Isabella’s Institute for Older need them,” said Betty Lehmann, director Adults, which offers educational and wellness of mar keting and programs through the 50 + Club and communications. the Walking Works Isabella House is a high-rise building Wonders Program. comprised of indeWith the childpendent-living apartcare program on-site, ment s f or adul t s in t e r g e n e r a t i o nal activities are a part ages 62 or older. Our of the rhythm of life, comfortable dining room of fers lunch helping residents stay and dinner buf fet young in spirit, said style. Activities are Lehmann. Some 39 abundant and diverse, children, ranging from including music, dance infants to five-yearolds, regularly share and exercise programs, stories, sing with the poetry and art classes, computer training and residents and engage more. in projects through www.isabella.org Project N.O.I.S.E.E. “People alway s tell me that a surprising thing for them is how (Naturally Occurring Interactions in a Shared spacious our rooms are,” Lehmann noted. Environment Everyday). In addition, local teen“They get a lot of light and have spectacular agers involved in Isabella’s community caring views.” partner program assist in nursing care, recreIn addition to a 705-bed nursing home, ational programs and daily living.

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What is the difference between Medicare and Medicaid?

Medicare is a privilege an individual is entitled to receive upon reaching the age of 65 or upon being certified disabled, providing they have worked for at least 10 years and contributed into the Social Security System.

Medicaid is for the poor or impoverished; therefore, eligibility is based upon income and resources levels. Meeting the eligibility requirements will secure Medicaid eligibility.

Researching Medicare plans isn’t always as simple as “A-B-C,” which is why Fidelis Care encourages seniors and their families to carefully compare the different products available before 2017 Medicare open enrollment ends on December 7.

What is Medicaid medical assistance?

When comparing plans, follow these research tips:

Medicaid is a joint federal and state funded program, run by the state and local counties, providing medical insurance, home care services (assisting with all activities of daily living) and nursing home medical assistance to the poor, elderly, or disabled.

However, individuals requiring home care services or nursing home medical assistance, in addition to financial requirements, also will need have a medical need for these services.

A

Add up all possible costs. Consider the monthly premiums, copays, coinsurance, deductibles and out-of-pocket maximums each plan presents to estimate your possible costs in 2017.

B

Balance the price with your healthcare needs. The Medicare Advantage option you select should offer a good value. For example, some plans have higher monthly premiums but low copays for provider visits, while others have no monthly premium, but higher copays. Determine what works best for you based on budget and healthcare needs.

C

Check your medications. Always take a look at the plan’s drug formulary to see if your medications are included, as well as how much they will cost you under the plan you are considering.

D

Decide on your providers. Make sure the doctors and hospitals you want will accept the plan that you choose.

Who can apply for Medicaid?

Medicaid is for anyone who meets the income and resources restrictions.

• Doctors • Hospitals • Prescriptions • Nursing Homes (room & board)

• Home-care Services, such as home attendants, home health aides and nurses

What is an MLTC? MLTC stands for Managed Long-Term Care. One example: When an applicant has been approved for Medicaid home-care services, the applicant has to choose one MLTC from several approved Medicaid plans. Upon joining an MLTC a coordinator will be assigned and this coordinator will be the point person between the applicant/recipient and the MLTC.

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What services does Medicaid provide?

To learn more about Fidelis Care’s Medicare Advantage and Dual Advantage products, use the Fidelis Affordable Care Advisor at fideliscare.org, or call 1-800860-8707 to schedule an appointment with a representative.

C M SG page 13 Y K Page 13 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, October 6, 2016

ISABELLA HOUSE Independent Living for Older Adults Our amenities include: •Spacious studios starting at $2,400 per month and one-bedroom apartments starting at $2,800 per month •Complimentary Lunch and Dinner served buffet style •Cable TV – with HD channels •All utilities are included •24-hour Security •Weekly linen service •Visitor Parking •Pastoral services •A wealth of programs and activities •Conveniently located near medical, physical therapy, occupational therapy and psychiatric services •On-site beauty salon, library, gift shop, laundry, check-cashing facilities and visitor parking •Moderately priced lodging for overnight guests

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QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, October 6, 2016 Page 14

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Senior Living Guide

Shielding assets when it’s time for Medicaid

by Victoria Zunitch Chronicle Contributor

Most people realize that they and their loved ones are likely to need long-term care as they progress through old age.

But misconceptions abound concerning the best way to get that care paid for.

Long-term care is assistance with a range of personal self-care needs. It can mean assistance at home or in a skilled nursing facility for medical needs or activities of daily living, including eating, dressing, personal hygiene, using the bathroom, transferring in and out of seating and bed, or even household chores and money management.

About 80 percent of people who need assistance receive it at home, according to caregiver.org, the website of the Family Caregiver Alliance.

Long-term care also includes post-hospital rehabilitation, even if the person eventually returns home to independent living.

Many people assume, incorrectly, that once a senior has enrolled in Medicare at age 65, usually also with a Medicare supplement plan, his or her long-term needs will be covered. But, no. Medicare and Medicare supplement plans cover doctor visits and hospitalizations for acute and chronic illnesses, not long-term care.

“Medicare and Medicare supplements only cover up to 100 days of rehab,” said Ann-Margaret Carrozza, an elder care attorney and former 14-year member of the state Assembly, from 1997 until 2010.

Seniors looking at a longer period of rehabilitation, or in need of assistance for the rest of their lives, will need to pay for it outright, use any long-term care insurance benefits they may have purchased in advance, or qualify for Medicaid.

Paying outright is, in fact, unlikely for both rich and poor. In the Queens area, long-term care costs about $500 a day, Carrozza said.

That adds up to $182,500, a cost that’s likely to inspire those who can afford it to buy LTC insurance ahead of time.

However, without preparation, seniors will wind up paying for as much of their care as possible until their assets have dwindled to a minimum.

Free asset protection class offered Oct. 19 Elder care attorney Ann-Margaret Carrozza will teach a free “Protect Your Assets” class, covering estate tax laws, long-term care and Medicaid eligibility, at 6 p.m. on Oct. 19.

The class will be held at Queensborough Community College, located at 22205 56 Ave. in Bayside. Registration is required. To register, call the college’s Office of Continuing Education at (718) Q 631-6343.

While Medicaid was created for people with limited financial resources, those who are better off may also need it to cover long-term care, but will want to protect assets such as homes.

Long-term care insurance “I think for anyone under 60 years of age, we need to be looking at long-term care insurance because New York State’s Medicaid program is by far the best in the United States, but it’s very, very expensive,” Carrozza said.

“It’s a big drain on the New York State budget and every year, we see encroachments on eligibility. I don’t think it will be there for today’s younger baby boomers and people younger than that,” she said.

Although people over age 60 might be able to buy LTC, they might not qualify for health reasons and the premiums become very expensive the older one gets.

At the high end, LTC insurance can cost $5,000 per year for each spouse. And Carrozza, who sat on the Assembly’s Insurance Committee during her term, warns that New York State allows insurance companies to raise premiums at any time.

That could lead to an insured person paying an insurance bill for years, only to find he or she can no longer afford the expense and will end up without coverage when it’s actually needed.

When buying insurance, be aware of the $500-per-day cost in the Queens area and make sure you are purchasing enough coverage to cover it or else you may wind up having to make up the difference with personal assets or eventual Medicaid assistance.

Carrozza also recommends considering hybrid LTC insurance, which provides a set dollar amount of coverage such as $50,000, $75,000 or $100,000, which goes to heirs as a life insurance payout if it isn’t used for care during the insured’s lifetime.

Hybrid insurance could be a viable option for people who still need life insurance coverage for dependents, such as young or disabled adult children, even as they approach old age themselves.

Qualifying for Medicaid Those who have a more moderate income and may be less likely to afford, or less willing to pay for, long-term care insurance need to do Medicaid planning, said Linda Marshak, a partner in the elder law firm Brady and Marshak, LLP of Howard Beach.

Medicaid was created for people with limited financial resources. Yet middle-class or even moderately wealthy people might not have the funds for LTC insurance and could find themselves needing Medicaid to cover long-term care.

Medicaid eligibility is limited to those with no more than $14,800 in assets.

There are three types of assets to consider.

The principal amounts in specifically designated retirement accounts, such as 401(k)s, 403(b)s and Teachers’ Deferred Annuity accounts, are invisible for purposes of Medicaid eligibility.

A primary residence is also exempt, but only on the front end.

“New York State says the primary residence is exempt for the purposes of Medicaid eligibility. But on death, guess who gets my big, beautiful house? Medicaid,”

Carrozza explained.

The third type of assets is unprotected.

Those are real estate holdings other than the primar y residence, brokerage or bank accounts, CDs, stocks, bonds or other assets outside of retirement accounts, even if one has designated them “for retirement.”

It is possible to transfer assets to someone else, for example, to a child, and have them excluded from consideration for Medicaid eligibility, but it has to be done right.

The transfer must be completed five years or more before applying for nursing home care, or one month for home care. The applicant is responsible for covering the cost of care for the time that falls short of five years.

Carrozza noted that a bill making its way through Congress would lengthen the lookback to seven years.

Directly giving your home to a child or children, or adding a child’s name to the deed alongside your own, is not recommended. It causes the loss of tax advantages for both the homeowner and the heir, and reduces or eliminates the parent’s control over the home.

“This is the single biggest mistake I see out there,” Carrozza said.

If the heir loses a lawsuit or gets divorced, the home would be vulnerable as an asset of the heir. A sour relationship or a disagreement over the best living situation could force the parent out before he or she is ready.

“The only thing people should think about doing with a primary residence is putting it into a properly drafted trust,” called an asset protection trust, Carrozza said. Once placed in the trust, the clock starts ticking toward completing the five-year Medicaid look-back.

An asset protection trust gives the owners 100 percent of the lifetime use and ownership of the property, Carrozza said. In order for it to be sold, both the trustee and the original owner must sign on the transaction. However, the owner can change the trustee at any time.

Eventually, unprotected assets can be placed in the trust. Carrozza recommends designating a power of attorney and instructing that person to transfer most of the unprotected assets into the trust in the event of an illness, and the Medicaid eligibility clock would start ticking. Holding those in a trust subject to the trustee’s signature is inconvenient for the long term.“ If the trust is properly drafted, the person won’t feel any change at Q all,” Carrozza said.

Most stick with Medicare Advantage plan A small share of Medicare Advantage enrollees switch plans each year, but those who do tend to pick plans with lower premiums and out-of-pocket limits than the plans they left behind, according to a recent analysis by the Kaiser Family Foundation.

Eleven percent of enrollees voluntarily switched from one Medicare Advantage plan to another between 2013 and 2014, the anal-

ysis found, while another 4 percent were forced to change because their Medicare Advantage plan exited the marketplace.

Looked at another way, roughly eight in 10 enrollees stayed in the same plan from one year to the next — a share that has remained fairly steady since 2007.

Further details from the study can be Q found online at kaiserf.am/2cR7KPm.

C M SG page 15 Y K

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C M SG page 16 Y K Being a Volunteer with Hospice of New York

By Sandra Nielsen

In my six years as a Volunteer Coordinator, I have had the privilege of working with some of the most incredible and compassionate volunteers. Our volunteers are a very diverse population and come from all walks of life. We try to place volunteers with patients that may share interests or have something in common. Sometimes it works out that way and other times the most unlikely paring turns out that the patient and volunteer learn from each other and have a very meaningful relationship. In the end, people need people.

One thing all volunteers have in common is their desire to help people in their time of need and they all have very big hearts. I take pleasure in reading and hearing about the experiences that the volunteers have while visiting with patients. It is often said that the Volunteers get more from their experience of visiting with patients than they give. I would like to share with you some of their experiences.

John Barr has been volunteering with Hospice of New York for about 1 year. John is a veteran who served in the Middle East. He is currently pursuing his Master’s Degree in Social Work at Fordham University.

John has had 2 long term patients and one that was very short term. His first patient was in a Nursing Home in Manhattan. This patient was a professor and they both had some of the same interests, such as philosophy, ancient Greece and psychoanalysis. The patient was in the process of writing a book but could no longer type, so John would assist him in doing so. They both enjoyed each other’s company and would have great discussions about their interests. His next patient was a homecare patient who was a young man that was near the end of his life. This patient liked to play video games and he and John would do that together. When he could no longer communicate, John became a real comfort to the patient’s father. Though the patient died, John still keeps in touch with his father.

John’s current patient has a form of Parkinson’s disease. Here is what John wrote about his patient: “The

patient is a very kind, thoughtful and intelligent man. From what he told me, he is well supported by his husband, Paul, and their many friends, and his family that are nearby upstate. He spoke at length about his condition.

We shared our professional background to further establish a connection. Mike is very funny. He is quick to see the humor in things, but worried that he might be just covering up his true feelings. I told him while that may be true; humor is the most advanced coping mechanism.

He seemed to appreciate that. I look forward to meeting with him again.”

John has been visiting Michael for about 6 months and they have become very good friends. As his illness progresses, John has been very supportive to Michael and his family. The relationship has benefited them both. John states that the patient is an inspiration to him.

Sandra Hollingsworth is a veteran volunteer and has been with Hospice of New York for over 15 years. Sandra prefers to see patients in the home setting and has helped numerous patients and families through the years. Sandra works as a Registered Nurse who uses volunteering as a way to relate to patients on a more intimate level. Sandra also is also someone who always participates in our Volunteer Trainings and trains new volunteers in the field.

Here is what Sandra has to say about her current patient: “My patient was watching television when I arrived. He was excited to see me. After he had his supper, he played the harmonica, Isn’t She Lovely, by Stevie Wonder. Then his daughter sang Pennies from Heaven, as he accompanied her on his harmonica. The daughter then took me downstairs to show me the patient’s paintings and musical instruments. This patient is a man of many talents. It was a lovely relaxing visit for me and I am looking forward to visiting again.”

Every experience is new and different and very beneficial to both the patient and the volunteer. Join us and become part of the Hospice of New York Family.

For more information on volunteering at Hospice of New York email Sandra.Nielsen @ hospice.nyc or Angela.

Purpura@hospice.nyc.

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The differences between celebrity and the man-on-the street deaths are little to the families we serve. The insecurity and fear are palpable. Hushed conversations invade our facilities. We are relied upon to ensure the wishes of the deceased and the family these realized. The trust that is handed to us mostly by strangers empowers us creating obligations and responsibilities rarely offered.

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We are judged and create lifelong relationships by our success in fulfilling the wishes of others. Though we

constantly stand in the shoes of the families we serve, calloused responses never define us. Each life brought to us becomes part of our own. As others bring a new life into the world, our profession comforts those who have a life that has departed.

When we serve families of ordinary people rather than the famous we replaced the crowds. By doing so our obligation is harder for we are place throngs through our individual participation. In the end it is the families that will determine whether we have served our purpose. Instead of public fanfare we realize our true purpose by a grateful handshake and a heartfelt thank-you.

St. Michael’s Cemetery is located at 72-02 Astoria Blvd., East Elmhurst. For further information call (718) 278-3240.

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Senior Living Guide

SENIOR CENTERS Senior Centers are places where older adults come together for services and activities that reflect their experience and skills, respond to their diverse needs and interests, enhance their dignity, support their independence, and encourage their involvement in and with the center and the community.

The following is a listing of Queens senior centers by community board:

CB 1 ________________________________ Queensbridge/Riis Senior Center (718) 937-1093 10-25 41 Ave., Long Island City Woodside Senior Center (718) 932-6916 50-37 Newtown Road, Bldg. #19, Woodside CCNS-Dellamonica Senior Center (718) 626-1500 23-56 Broadway, Astoria HANAC Ravenswood Senior Center (718) 786-1550 34-35A 12 St., Long Island City Raices Astoria Senior Center (718) 726-9642 21-12 30 Road, Long Island City HANAC Archbishop Iakovos Senior Center (718) 777-5505 32-06 21 St., Astoria HANAC Lindsay Senior Center (718) 626-3035 27-40 Hoyt Ave. South, Astoria

CB 4 _______________________________ Newtown Senior Center (718) 335-7272 83-20 Queens Blvd., Elmhurst IPHE Corona Senior Center (718) 639-2000 108-74 Roosevelt Ave., Corona Raices Corona Senior Center (718) 458-7259 107-24 Corona Ave., Corona Florence E. Smith Senior Services (718) 899-0553 102-19 34 Ave., Corona Korean American Senior Center (718) 651-9220 37-06 111 St., Corona Lefrak Senior Citizens Center (718) 457-9757 98-16 55 Ave., Corona IPRHE-Elmhurst Jackson Heights Senior Ctr. (718) 478-7171 75-01 Broadway, 3rd floor, Elmhurst

CB 2 _______________________________ Sunnyside Community Senior Center (718) 392-6944 43-31 39 St., Long Island City

CB 5 _______________________________ Ridgewood Older Adult Center (718) 456-2000 59-14 70 Ave., Ridgewood Peter Cardella Senior Center (718) 497-2908 68-52 Fresh Pond Road, Ridgewood Selfhelp Maspeth Senior Center (718) 429-3636 69-61 Grand Ave., Maspeth Middle Village Older Adult Center (718) 894-3441 69-10 75 St., Middle Village

CB 3 _______________________________ Elmcor Senior Center (718) 457-9757 98-19 Astoria Blvd., East Elmhurst CCNS-Catherine Sheridan Senior Center (718) 458-4600 35-24 83rd St., Jackson Heights

SENIOR LIVING GUIDE • Fall 2016

Queens Center for Gay Seniors (718) 533-6459 74-09 37. Ave., Room 409, Jackson Heights

CB 6 _______________________________ Queens Community House Senior Center (718) 699-1010 108-25 62 Drive, Forest Hills Selfhelp Austin Street Senior Center (718) 520-8197 106-06 Queens Blvd., Forest Hills Young Israel Forest Hills Senior League (718) 520-2305 68-07 Burns St., Forest Hills Rego Park Senior Center (718) 896-8711 93-29 Queens Bvd., Rego Park Central Queens Y - Adult Wellness Program (718) 268-5011 67-09 108 St., Forest Hills

CB 7________________________________ CPC Queens Nan Shan Senior Center (718) 358-3030 136-18 39 Ave., 6th floor, Flushing Selfhelp Latimer Gardens Senior Center (718) 961-3660 34-30 137 St., Flushing Selfhelp Innovative Benjamin Rosenthal Sr. Ctr. (718) 886-5777 45-25 Kissena Blvd., Flushing HANAC Angelo Petromelis College Point Senior Center (718) 961-0344 13-28 123 St., College Point North Flushing Senior Center (718) 358-9193 29-09 137 St., Flushing College Point Senior Center (718) 358-9193 22-38 College Point Blvd., College Point Korean American Senior Center of Flushing (718) 886-8203 42-15 166 St., Flushing CB 8 _______________________________ CCNS-Hillcrest Senior Center (718) 297-7171 168-01B Hillside Ave., Jamaica Jewish Center of Kew Gardens Hills Senior Center (718) 263-6500 71-25 Main St., Flushing Pomonok Senior Center (718) 591-3377 67-09 Kissena Blvd., 2nd floor, Flushing Young Israel Queens Valley Senior Center (718) 263-6995 141-55 77 Ave., Flushing CB 9 _______________________________ CCNS-Ozone Park Senior Center (718) 847-2100 103-02 101 Ave., Ozone Park CCNS-Woodhaven-Richmond Hill Senior Center (718) 847-9200 89-02 91 St., Woodhaven Kew Gardens Community Center (718) 268-5960 80-02 Kew Gardens Road, Suite 202, Kew Gardens CB 10 ______________________________ CCNS Howard Beach Senior Center (718) 738-8100 155-55 Cross Bay Blvd., Howard Beach

CB 11 _______________________________ Samuel Field Y Senior Citizens Program (718) 225-6750 58-20 Little Neck Pkwy., Little Neck CCNS-Bayside Senior Center (718) 225-1144 211-15 Horace Harding Expwy., Bayside Selfhelp Clearview Senior Center (718) 224-7888 208-11 26 Ave., Bayside CB 12 ______________________________ International Towers Senior Center (718) 739-6988 90-20 170 St., Jamaica JSPOA Theodora Jackson Center (718) 657-6618 92-47 165 St., Jamaica Allen Community Senior Citizen Center (718) 658-0980 166-01 Linden Blvd., Jamaica JSPOA Friendship Nutrition Center (718) 657-6540 92-33 170 St., Jamaica Robert Couche Senior Citizen Center (718) 978-8352 137-57 Farmers Blvd., Springfield Gardens Rochdale Village Senior Center (718) 525-2800 169-65 137 Ave., Jamaica Brooks Senior Center (718) 291-3935 143-22 109 Ave., Jamaica JSPOA Rockaway Blvd. Senior Center (718) 657-6468 123-10 143 St., Jamaica CB 13__________________________________ SNAP Brookville Center (718) 525-8899 One Cross Island Plaza, lower level 5, Rosedale SNAP Innovative Senior Ctr. of Eastern Queens (718) 454-2100 80-45 Winchester Blvd., Building 4 CBU #29, Queens Village Alpha Phi Alpha Senior Center (718) 528-8238 220-01 Linden Blvd., Cambria Heights Information from the Senior Citizen Resource Guide

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C M SG page 19 Y K Page 19 QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, October 6, 2016

EVERYONE is W e r e h elco ce W a l me P A

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SENIOR LIVING GUIDE • Fall 2016

• Private Apartments with Balcony • Delicious Daily Meals • Nurse’s Aides & Security • Housekeeping Services • Medication Supervision • Beauty Parlor & Barber Shop • Personal Care Assistance • Shopping/Cultural Outings • Social & Recreational Activities • Indoor Pool, Jacuzzi & Exercise Room • On-site banking, bi-weekly with Ridgewood Savings Bank Bus

QUEENS CHRONICLE, Thursday, October 6, 2016 Page 20

C M SG page 20 Y K

Give your current Medicare plan its annual checkup!

Compare your current plan with HumanaChoice® (PPO). You’ll find that Humana may give you more of the benefits you really want. Check the benefits your plan offers to compare to what Humana offers here in New York City.

Your Plan Humana

Affordable monthly plan premium Access to mail-order prescription drug pharmacies Rewards for completing preventive health screenings and activities SilverSneakers® Fitness Program Dental, Hearing and Vision coverage To find out if a Humana Medicare Advantage plan is right for you, call to schedule an in-home appointment or reserve your spot at a neighborhood sales meeting.

Call a licensed sales agent 1-855-819-5976 (TTY: 711)

SENIOR LIVING GUIDE • Fall 2016

5 a.m. – 8 p.m., 7 days a week. ¿En español? Llame gratis al 1-855-808-1723

Humana is a Medicare Advantage PPO organization with a Medicare contract. Enrollment in this Humana plan depends on contract renewal. This information is not a complete description of benefits. Contact the plan for more information. Limitations, copayments, and restrictions may apply. Benefits, premium and member cost share may change on January 1 of each year. You must continue to pay your Medicare Part B premium. Newspaper advertising supplement to Queens Chronicle - Senior Living Guide. Applicable to HumanaChoice® (PPO) H3533-021.

Humana Inc. and its subsidiaries (“Humana”) do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex.

English: ATTENTION: If you do not speak English, language assistance services, free of charge, are available to you. Call 1-855-819-5976 (TTY: 711).

Español (Spanish): ATENCIÓN: Si habla español, tiene a su disposición servicios gratuitos de asistencia lingüística. Llame al 1-855-808-1723 (TTY: 711). 籗넓⚥俒 (Chinese): 岤䠑㥶卓䝡⢪欽籗넓⚥俒䝡〳⟃⯝顥栽䖤铃鎊䴂⸔剪⹡锞荞ꨶ 1-855-819-5976 (TTY: 711) Y0040_GHHHXEJTE17a _51 Accepted HUMA-070421