Senior Guidebook - Jul/Aug/Sept 2010

Mirabella Stylish Senior Living at South Lake Union See our ad on page 1

JUL/AUG/SEP 2010 www.seniorguidebook.com

Life is a 3-D Adventure at Garden Court!

Virtual Tour & more at www.gardencourtretirement.com

RETIREMENT COMMUNITY

520 - 112th Street SW • Everett WA 98204 425.438.9080 • FAX 425.438.1604

www.seniorguidebook.com

1

FEATURES

For advertising information contact: DAVID KIERSKY, Publisher 213 V Avenue / Anacortes WA 98221 PHONE 360.588.9181 / FAX 360.588.9003 EMAIL d.kiersky@verizon.net JENNIFER KIERSKY BLAIR Chief Editor/Production Copyright 2010 Kiersky Publishing, Inc. All rights reserved.

Kiersky Publishing Senior Guidebook to Western Washington is published quarterly by Kiersky Publishing, Inc. The opinions, advice or statements expressed by contributing writers don’t reflect those of the editor, the publisher or of Kiersky Publishing Senior Guidebook to Western Washington. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without prior consent of the publisher. It is your responsibility to evaluate the accuracy, completeness or usefulness of any information, opinion, advice or other content contained herein. Furthermore, Kiersky Publishing, Inc. makes no representations and, to the fullest extent allowed by law, disclaims all warranties, expressed or implied, including but not limited to, warranties of merchantability and fitness for particular purposes regarding the suitability of the information; the accuracy, reliability, completeness or timeliness of the content, services or products advertised herein.

The content published herein may include inaccuracies or typographical errors.

CARING FACES

Fairwinds Brighton Court Lynnwood Pam McFadden, Sales Rep

Home Place – Oak Harbor Amanda Nichols, LPN Robin Martin, Administrator

4 5 6 8 10 12 14 18 20 22 23 29

Somerset Memory Care Everett Mandy McKimson, Marketing

Chronic Pain Syndrome and Ayurved – Virender Sodhi, MD, ND Living Well and Ensuring Dying with Dignity – Andrew Schorr Merrill Gardens Support Our Troops Week – Bill Pettit, President, Merrill Gardens Life’s Classroom – Tracey Harvey Options and Resources for Affording a Senior Living Community – Kate Harrison & Linda Woolsey Golfers Never Lose Their Swing -- Even Those with Memory Loss – Maureen Manley It’s the Fair -- Country Style – Christine Blankenship Culture Shock and Wiggle Room – Rick Steves We Wish We Had Heard About Hospice Sooner – Annette Coffman Service From The Heart – Sheila Moreno, MA Directory

ADVERTISERS Front Cover Mirabella – Seattle Back Cover GenCare Lifestyle: Ballard Landmark – Seattle; The Lodge – Renton; Scriber Gardens – Lynnwood; The Village – Granite Falls; Remington Place – Seattle-Lake City; Sun City-Arizona

Inside Front Cover Garden Court Retirement Community – Everett Inside Back Cover Somerset Memory Care Community – Everett Centerfold 16 Edmonds Landing – Edmonds 17 Rosewood Courte – Edmonds

1 3

Mirabella – Seattle Sunrise Senior Living – Edmonds, Lynnwood, Snohomish, Mercer Island, Bellevue, Brighton Gardens of Bellevue

7 9

The Bridge – Mount Vernon

11

Salem Village Communities: Highland Greens Townhomes, Salem Village II, Highland Greens Senior Apartments, Salem Village Apartments – Mount Vernon

13 15

Leisure Care: Fairwinds-Brighton Court – Lynnwood; Fairwinds-Brittany Park – Woodinville

19 26 27 28 Highland Greens Mount Vernon Tina Kirk, Manager

Coordinating Care for Safety and Value – Brian Giddens, University of Washington Medical Center

Merrill Gardens: The Creekside – Woodinville; Cordata – Bellingham; Kirkland; Marysville; Mill Creek; Monroe; At the University – Seattle; Mountlake Terrace Plaza – Mountlake Terrace; Northgate – Seattle; Northgate Plaza – Seattle; Queen Anne – Seattle; Stanwood

Aegis Living: Aegis at Totem Lake – Kirkland; Bothell; Bellevue; Callahan House – Shoreline; Edmonds; Issaquah; Kent; Kirkland; Lynnwood; Northgate – Seattle; Redmond; Shoreline Home Place – Oak Harbor PatientPower.info SeniorGuidebook.com Alzheimer’s Association – Seattle

Redefining Senior “HOME”

W

hether it’s our pets in residence, our flowering plants or our staff that acts more like family than caregivers, Sunrise Senior Living provides everyday experiences that make our communities simply, more livable.

At Sunrise, we understand that the transition to a senior community isn’t always easy. So, we focus on the details of living, from beautifully

appointed living spaces to delicious meals, engaging social activities, transportation, and personalized assistance and care.

Visit or call a Sunrise Senior Living residence today to see what we do to make our communities into places seniors can call home.

Call today about our Move-In Specials*

* Limited time offer, subject to change without notice and available at participating communities.

Certain restrictions may apply.

Brighton Gardens of Bellevue Sunrise of Bellevue Sunrise of Edmonds Sunrise of Lynnwood Sunrise of Mercer Island Sunrise of Snohomish

425-401-0300 425-401-5152 425-673-9700 425-771-7700 206-232-6565 360-568-1900

15241 NE 20th St, Bellevue, WA 98007 15928 NE 8th St, Bellevue, WA 98008 750 Edmonds Way, Edmonds, WA 98020 18625 60th Ave, West, Lynnwood, WA 98037 2959 76th Ave SE, Mercer Island, WA 98040 1124 Pine Ave, Snohomish, WA 98290

AL, ALZ AL, ALZ AL, ALZ AL, ALZ AL, ALZ AL, ALZ

www.sunriseseniorliving.com

www.seniorguidebook.com

3

Coordinating Care for Safety and Value

by Brian Giddens In the U.S., there are many types and levels of health care. Examples include hospitalization, long-term skilled nursing, shorter-term rehabilitation programs, assisted living, home health, hospice, primary and specialty clinics, and community programs. There are multiple points of entry and providers of services. Having choices as to where to go, and who to see can be very positive for the consumer. At the same time, if the programs, institutions, and providers are not communicating with each other, or if they are conveying mixed messages, the consumer can become overwhelmed. Even worse, if the providers are not communicating, care can be compromised. Costs can also go up when care is not coordinated, as tests may be repeated unnecessarily, medications given that counteract, and recovery from an illness delayed due to confusion over the plan.

At the University of Washington Medical Center, part of UW Medicine, much effort is being put into coordinating care. Our pharmacists are working with physicians to “reconcile” medications that patients were prescribed in the community, with the medications we provide as part of our treatment plan.

This will allow any potentially dangerous combinations of drugs to be recognized. We are electronically linking community physicians with our inpatient provider teams, so that the community physician knows when their patient is being admitted and discharged. We have introduced Nurse Care Coordinators on some of our busiest units to help ensure that all care providers are aware of the treatment plan and that any barriers to treatment, such as a lab or procedure delay, missed communication between the physicians, or need for patient education, be resolved as soon as possible. Our social workers communicate with their inpatient or outpatient colleagues at the time of a patient transfer to or from the hospital, so that existing services can be maintained as needed. Increasingly, when we are working with someone who has an especially complicated system of care, with multiple providers, we try to hold “care conferences.” This brings together the primary and specialty doctors, and the other members of the interdisciplinary team (pharmacist, rehab professionals, social workers, nurses, nutritionists) to ensure that everyone understands the treatment plan and goals of care.

Ideally, the individual patient should be the hub of the wheel, while all of the providers and services radiate around the patient and link with each other. At any point in time, everyone surrounding the patient should be aware of what the plan for the patient is, and who is involved in the care. Here is an example: Carol is a 65 year-old female who has insulin dependent diabetes, a history of breast cancer (two years prior, treated with radiation and chemotherapy), and a pacemaker. She is recovering from knee surgery, after a fall at home. Carol sees her primary care doctor, an oncologist, a cardiologist, and an endocrinologist on an ongoing basis, and temporarily will have some follow-up appointments with her knee surgeon. She has temporary in-home assistance arranged by the social worker that works in the primary care clinic, and home physical therapy through a local home health agency that was arranged by the social worker in the hospital. There is also a daughter in the area who wants to be involved in care.

At first glance, one would think that Carol is very well supported. She has five doctors involved in her care, as well as community services and family. If all these services are not coordinated however, the care may be inefficient, possibly affecting Carol’s health status. Many wonderful ingredients are necessary to 4

make up a big pot of stew, but the ingredients do not jump into the pot on their own. If we were to serve as the “care coordinator” for Carol, here are some questions we would ask: Who is in charge of the overall plan? Usually, it is the primary care physician, but this can change depending on what the predominant health issue may be. Someone has to be the “lead”.

How is information being relayed to the other providers? Is each provider sending reports to everyone, to some of the providers, to the designated “lead”, or is no one communicating?

Is each of the providers prescribing medications, and if so, are they reviewing with Carol and her daughter the current medications at each visit? Does Carol have an updated list of all her medications? For someone with this many providers, medications should be reviewed regularly.

Does each provider ask Carol to undergo the same lab tests? For example, endocrinologists request blood draws regularly, but then, so might the surgeon prior to conducting surgery, and the oncologist on an annual review. Granted, specialized tests may need to be done, but there is also the likelihood for redundancies. How many times must Carol give blood when another provider may already have the results needed? Some doctors, if not affiliated through one system, may insist on having their own tests done, but it’s always worth asking.

Do the community providers know the overall goals for Carol? Has the physical therapist communicated Carol’s physical limitations and exercise goals to the in-home caregiver and the daughter? Is one person asking Carol to try walking while the other is telling Carol to stay in her chair? Did the social worker know when requesting in-home assistance that home health was also in the home? These services offer different things, but the extent and frequency of the care will change based on other services being offered.

What can you do as a consumer to ensure coordinated care? If you are in a system of care that is linked structurally (i.e., the clinic is affiliated with the hospital), that can help, but don’t take it for granted that even internal systems talk to each other. Be your own advocate and educator. Let every provider know who else you are seeing. Bring to each visit your current medication list. Inform your providers of the community services you are utilizing. Be sure to have a durable power of attorney who can speak for you when you are not able to speak for yourself, and make sure that they know your health status and services. Ask that providers send reports to your other providers. As the health care system continues to work to improve coordination of care for greater safety and value, you can help by being your own “care coordinator”.

Brian Giddens is an Associate Director in Social Work and Care Coordination Department at the University of Washington Medical Center.

SENIOR guidebook – bridging generations

Chronic Pain Syndrome and Ayurved

by Virender Sodhi MD (Ayurved), ND Pain is the most common complaint that leads patients to seek medical care. Chronic pain syndrome is a common problem that presents a major challenge to healthcare providers, because of its complexity. Chronic pain syndrome is a poorly defined condition. Most physicians consider ongoing pain lasting longer than 6 months as diagnostic. Others have used 3 months as basic criteria, and still some physicians suggest any pain persisting more than reasonable healing time is chronic pain. Chronic pain is not uncommon.

Approximately 35% of Americans have some element of chronic pain, and approximately 50 million Americans are disabled partially or totally due to chronic pain. Chronic pain is reported more commonly in women. Major effects in a patient's life with chronic pain syndrome are, depressed mood, reduced activity and productivity, fatigue, reduced libido, excessive use and abuse of drugs and alcohol, dependent behavior, and disability.This condition is managed best with a multidisciplinary approach, requiring good integration and knowledge of multiple organ systems. Naturopathic and Ayurvedic approaches with nutrition, exercise, yoga, breathing exercises, meditation, and detoxification, along with use of anti-inflammatory and adaptogens, are the best approach for Chronic pain management.

The pathophysiology of chronic pain syndrome is multifactorial and complex, and yet is still poorly understood. Some researchers have suggested that chronic pain syndrome might be a learned behavioral syndrome that begins with abnormal stimulus that causes pain. While acute pain is a normal sensation triggered in the nervous system to alert you to possible injury, and the need to take care of yourself, chronic pain is different. Chronic pain persists. Pain signals keep on firing to the nervous system for weeks, months, even years. This pain behavior is then rewarded externally, or internally. The pain behavior is then reinforced, and it occurs with or without any abnormal stimulus. Internal reinforcers are fear, irritability, anger, frustration, sexual issues, responsibilities and many more. External reinforcers include such factors as attention from family members, friends, physician, medications, compensation, and time off from work.

Because of the complex etiology and the frequent presence of associated disorders, a thorough history is necessary for the physician to direct further evaluation and appropriate consultations. A detailed history including: physical, mental, and emotional symptoms, relationships, sexual relationships and abuse, work, stress, sleeping patterns, and exercise, are all important factors. A www.seniorguidebook.com

detailed review of the musculoskeletal, reproductive, gastrointestinal, urologic, and neuropsychological systems must be obtained.

Lists of diseases are long and exhaustive, and beyond the scope of this article. As needed, specific questions should be asked of particular patients, depending on their associated disorders. Patients with major depression, somatization disorder, hypochondriasis, and conversion disorder are prone to developing chronic pain syndrome. Stress single handedly is a major contributor factor in chronic pain. It is not uncommon to notice neck, back, jaw, shoulder pain and headache with increased stress.

Ayurvedic Treatment Ayurvedic medicine considers disease to be a mistake of the intellect, (Pragya= Intelligence, Apradh= Mistake.) Treatment options are geared towards normalization and balancing of the body at mental, emotional, spiritual, and physical levels, with detoxification, nutrition, yoga, exercise, breathing exercise, meditation, counseling, herbal and mineral supplements.

Ayurvedic Nutrition Ayurvedic nutrition is prescribed according to one’s body type and pathology. In general, night shade family, citrus family, dairy products, red meat, caffeine, sugar, and alcohol are avoided. Patients are prescribed light digestible hypoallergenic foods. Patients are encouraged to consume more vegetables, fruits, nuts, and grains like rice, amaranth, quinoa, millet, and buckwheat.

Ayurvedic Detoxification Program, Panch Karma Ayurvedic medicine has elaborative detoxification procedures for different health conditions known as Panch Karma treatments (Five detoxification methods). According to Ayurveda, our natural state is one of health, happiness, and an inner sense of well-being. Health is defined as the body being clear of toxins, the mind is at peace, emotions are calm and happy, wastes are efficiently eliminated, and organs are functioning normally. In a busy, stressful, and toxic world, our physical and mental systems accumulate toxins causing deterioration in bodily functioning. This eventually weakens our systems, which opens the door for chronic, degenerative, and non-specific diseases to develop.

These can evolve into serious specific diseases, ultimately damaging an individual’s health and wellness.

Panchakarma can help by reversing these negative effects of daily living. It can restore a natural state of health and wellness by cleansing your body of toxins, bringing balance into your system, and improving bodily function. continued on page 24 5

Living Well and Ensuring Dying with Dignity

by Andrew Schorr

This is a hard topic we, in America, hesitate to face. We celebrate living well in our senior years, but when a chronic illness or cancer threatens our living, we have a hard time confronting how we want to die head-on. Take a deep breath, and let’s explore this together. You will feel better, really!

The statistics show most of us die in a hospital when we’ve become too elderly and frail. Rather than letting us slip away with a minimum of suffering, the American healthcare system defaults to doing everything to keep us alive; even if it’s as a prisoner in the ICU. The truth is, our country spends much more than most other western countries on our last few weeks of life. It doesn’t cure us, won’t save us, and it usually doesn’t make us feel better. Some would say it torments us, and racks up big charges for the doctors and hospitals. One could argue they make big money trying to cheat death, when at this point, even the doctors know that death cannot be cheated.

I know these are strong statements, but I believe in my teacher Dr. Robert Martensen. He is a lecturer at Harvard Medical School, and historian at the National Institutes of Health. He has written an important book called A Life Worth Living, where he points out how our current American Way of facing death is a disservice to the elderly, and to their families. Dr. Martensen does not believe in “assisted” suicide, by any means. He does believe however, that doctors should not use interventions to keep you alive. According to Dr. Martensen, it isn’t right to thrust anyone into a few more days or weeks of life, which is not really a life worth living. Dr. Martensen points out that ventilators are way overused at the end of life. The patient is sedated, tubes are inserted, and the ventilator is simply serving as a “bridge therapy” for someone recovering from pneumonia, for example. It is only keeping the organs alive, while the patient has no ability to say goodbye to family and friends. The illness 6

is essentially taking over, which is not allowing the patient to die with any sort of dignity.

So, what can we do? What can we do when our health fails for the final time, and our children fly in from multiple places to argue about “what Mom would want.” Let’s be frank, what they’re really arguing about is what THEY want.

Maybe they can’t bring themselves to say goodbye, even after a life lived long and well. One can understand that, but this is why your wishes need to be known and spelled out clearly, IN ADVANCE. According to Dr. Martensen, beyond all the pre-signed legal documents, you need to have designated one person – maybe a friend and NOT a family member – who can keep a clear head and express your wishes. Again, If there’s ambiguity, the doctors and hospital will default to keeping you alive. This will come at great expense, and possibly with discomfort and lack of dignity for you.

I urge you to speak with your friends and children about what you would want.

You clearly know how you want to live. But how do you want to die? I pray we can all live full tilt with no disability until we are 100, and keel over on the tennis court, or die in our sleep with a smile on our face. You know as well as I do though, that it hardly ever works out that way. So confront reality, take control, and make your wishes known. Also, pick up Dr. Martensen’s book. I don’t suggest this because I get a commission, rather I hope that it may spark a fruitful discussion between you and the people who love you. Those same loved ones who might otherwise fight you, when the time comes to saying goodbye with clarity.

For more information , please visit www.patientpower.info

SENIOR guidebook

What is Assisted Living?

AN ASSISTED LIVING COMMUNITY

Assisted Living is designed to meet the needs of individuals who are unable to live alone yet do not require skilled nursing care. The Bridge at Mount Vernon offers a unique combination of residential housing, personalized services and health care while promoting the maximum independence and dignity of each of our residents by providing compassionate, professional care.

Benefits of Assisted Living at The Bridge at Mount Vernon: s Three well-balanced meals SERVED IN OUR COMMUNITY DINING ROOM

At The Bridge at Mount Vernon, it isn’t just about the quality of our Assisted Living services.

It’s also about the quality of life that you want for yourself or your loved one.

s Medication monitoring TO ENSURE THEY ARE TAKEN AS PRESCRIBED

To learn how The Bridge at Mount Vernon can benefit you or a loved one, call now to schedule a tour and ask about our move-in specials!

s Daily activities DESIGNED TO HELP MAINTAIN A HEALTHY AND INDEPENDENT LIFESTYLE

(360) 416-0400

s Peace of mind KNOWING THAT RESIDENTS ARE TREATED WITH RESPECT

DIGNITY AND COMPASSION BY A LICENSED PROFESSIONAL STAFF s Socialization THROUGH PLANNED EVENTS THAT ALLOW RESIDENTS TO ENJOY ONE ANOTHER S COMPANY

AN ASSISTED LIVING COMMUNITY

301 South LaVenture Road Mount Vernon, WA 98273 www.centurypa.com 9/09

www.seniorguidebook.com

7

Support Our Troops Week

by Bill Pettit, President, Merrill Gardens Western Washington residents are invited to help Merrill Gardens communities raise funds for the USO (United Service Organizations) in June. Each of the 20 communities in the Puget Sound area will join together to host a USO fundraising event the week of June 14th, when they celebrate Merrill Gardens Support Our Troops Week. The communities are planning a variety of special events and the requested donation is just $10. Merrill Gardens is supplying all the food and entertainment, and all money raised will be given directly to the USO. Guests can choose to attend a ‘Mess Hall’ lunch or dinner, and many communities are planning live music, dances, and auctions.

The USO is the bridge between the American public and the U.S. military. They deliver comfort, morale, and recreational services to the military. The organization holds a special place in the hearts of many of Merrill Gardens senior residents, who served in the Armed Forces. This congressionally chartered, private, nonprofit organization relies on the generosity of individuals and corporations for support. They provide services for the military at community and airport centers, and by reaching out to troops across the world.

Last year the USO served more than 5 million military and family members worldwide.

“The money raised at the Merrill Gardens events will allow us to continue providing the morale and welfare necessities the USO has been known for since 1941,” says Donald Leingang, Executive Director, of USO Puget Sound Area.

“Donations will help fund our centers and our special programs, such as our United Through Reading Program. This program allows deployed parents to be videotaped reading a bedtime story to their children.

While the military parent is en route to Iraq, the USO mails the book and DVD to the family home, allowing memories to be captured forever. In 2009, the army 8

of volunteers who work with the USO provided the “last meal on U.S. soil” to every deploying military member.

“We are so pleased to be able to support the wonderful programs of the USO with our community fundraisers. Our team members and residents are working hard to put together some very special events, and we are hoping to see big crowds join us,” said Kellie Moeller, Regional Marketing Director for Merrill Gardens.

The USO says the funds are badly needed. “As the number of military asked to redeploy for a second and third time continue to increase, the necessity to partner with civilian organizations becomes more critical. The USO supports as many programs as fiscally possible each year, but due to these financial constraints, we occasionally have to say, “we can’t help. We feel terrible having to do that, and receiving this donation would allow us to proudly say yes. It would also allow us to be able to extend our services to the ever-increasing number of military who have been deployed on multiple occasions, and to the spouses and children that have endured 8 years of conflict. We are proud Merrill Gardens has entered this partnership with us – together we will be able to support the brave Americans fighting to ensure our freedoms,” said Leingang.

For details about the USO fundraising events at Merrill Gardens in Western Washington, visit our website at www.merrillgardens.com.

Merrill Gardens is a family owned company based in Seattle. Parent R.D. Merrill is a timber company with roots that go back over 100 years. The Merrill family started Merrill Gardens 17 years ago and it’s now the largest senior housing company in Washington with 22 communities. Pettit has been with the company since its inception.

SENIOR guidebook – bridging generations

Bellingham* Bellingham* (360) (360) 715-8822 715-8822 M aryysville Marysville ((360) 360) 6 59-1279 659-1279

Suppooorrrtt Our

TROOPS WEEK

M ill C reek Mill Creek ((425) 425) 3 38-1580 338-1580 M onroe* Monroe* ((360) 360) 7 94-4284 794-4284 M ountlake T errace Mountlake Terrace ((425) 425) 6 72-4673 672-4673

Merrill Gardens is hosting special events nationwide to help support our troops. Please join us.

Enjoy a fabulous feaast st while we raise money to help our troops.

All proceeds will benefit the USO. We look forward to seeing you!

Northgaate Northgate (206) 362-7250 362-7250 (206) N orthgate Plaza Plaza Northgate ((206) 206) 3 63-6740 363-6740 Queen A nne Queen Anne ((206) 206) 2 84-0055 284-0055

Caalll tthe Call he Merrill Merrill Gardens Gaarrdens ccommunity ommunittyy near neaarr you you for for the the date date and aan nd time time of of ttheir heir USO USO event! event!

Minimum Donation: $10 per attendee

Stanwood* Stanwood* (360) 629-3445 629-3445 (360) U niversity University ((206) 206) 5 23-8400 523-8400 West S eattle West Seattle ((206) 206) 9 32-5480 932-5480 West S eattle West Seattle A dmiral H eights Admiral Heights ((206) 206) 9 38-3964 938-3964

A one of a kind retir rretirement etirrement emen community

(800) 889-5510 www w.merrillgardens.com *Alzheimer’s Care available at Bellingham, Monroe and Stanwood.

R Retirement, e t i re m e n t, A Assisted ssisted L Living iving & A Alzheimer’s l z h e i m e r ’s C Care a re www.seniorguidebook.com

9

Life’s Classroom • Living A Whole Life

by Tracey Harvey

Too often we view learning as something you only do in the classroom. Following graduation, individuals want to rest their mind and begin applying their skills. The general thought of a continuing education is not on the top of everyone’s mind. However, a continuing learning process is essential to keeping the mind sharp and nimble, and it doesn’t have to be in a classroom. If you are interested in truly living a whole life with the riches of health, purpose, and happiness, then consider looking in your own community for the following ideas.

When pursuing a passion you have yet to accomplish, community colleges are a good place to start. There are always a variety of courses that may spark your interest – look at professional development, personal enrichment, or special interests categories.

Want to learn something more about the computer other than just how to email? Public libraries, innovative retirement living communities, and senior centers have programs just for you. Love to travel? Consider learning a foreign language to help you navigate your way around that country. Not only does this give the mind an ultimate workout, but the confidence to explore and enjoy your adventure too. Love to cook and experience new foods? Look at the mini programs, and food demonstrations offered at culinary schools. Area hospital networks are great ways to learn how to prepare wholesome foods that will fuel the body, and give you the energy to live a long life.

The ability to understand the things that once scared you will now be within your grasp, with just a little basic knowledge and understanding. Whatever you desire to learn will be less intimidating and more achievable, by opening your mind to change. Try changing channels in order to get out of the “I have always done it this way” rut. Watching new television news stations to gain a richer point of view on topics that you are passionate about, will enable you to understand opposing viewpoints and perspectives. Simply remembering we can learn from people you disagree with, can make you wiser and more in control. Things that unite beliefs are far greater than what divides us. Entertain other thoughts and points of view when exploring ideals like religion, politics, or even your wellness plan.

10

Too often, folks relegate themselves to what they know, instead of searching for new subject matter to learn and explore. Staying sharp and living with purpose only enrich conversations I have with family members and residents. Giving your time can be the greatest gift you can give to your family, friends, and even those you do not know. As older adults age, many do not have family and friends left with which to spend their time. Seek organizations and other charitable ways for you to connect with those that would benefit from your companionship. Friends to Friends is a wonderful, and free, resource that aligns volunteers with WA seniors feeling isolated and all alone.

The good news is that living a Whole Life can be your sole responsibility; you do not have to rely on others. There is now more research than ever, on aging and senior lifestyles. If you take the time to look for the credible sources that are offering courses on evidence-based breakthroughs in neuroscience and aging, you will be assured to emerge a vibrant student of life.

Enjoy & Be Well, Tracey Harvey Tracey Harvey is the Corporate Director of Vitality for GenCare Lifestyle.

For more information, you can call 206-467-2620, or visit www.gencarelifestyle.com

SENIOR guidebook – bridging generations

V S C

alem illage ommunities

A Non-profit Corporation...Providing Senior Adults with Quality Housing in a Caring Community

Carefree Single Level SENIOR RESIDENCES Carefree independent living • Units 930-1200 square feet • Two bedroom, or one bedroom with den • Dishwasher and disposal • Laundry hook-ups • Deck or patio • Single car garage

Highland Greens Townhomes Village Court @ 3200 N 30th Street Mount Vernon WA 98273 360.540.1438

Salem Village II 2601-2617 N LaVenture Road Mount Vernon WA 98273 360.540.1438

Simplified Condo-style living “purchase” and “resale” • “We buy it back” • No closing cost • Yard care provided • Easy

Universal design for aging in place stairs or steps • Wide doorways • Tub and walk-in shower • No

Affordable Senior APARTMENTS • City living with country atmosphere • Spacious one and two bedroom units • Private deck or patio • Social areas and library

Highland Greens Senior Apartments 3100 N 30th Street Mount Vernon WA 98273 360.848.8422 Salem Village Apartments 2619 N LaVenture Road Mount Vernon WA 98273 360.428.5662

www.salemvillage.org www.seniorguidebook.com

11

Options & Resources For Affording A Senior Living Community written by Leisure Care Corporate Office and edited by Kate Harrison, General Manager, and Linda Woolsey, Marketing and Sales Representative, Fairwinds-Brighton Court

You’ve finally decided it’s time to take the next step in life’s journey and move into a retirement community. What now, and how do you make it happen? We recognize that these are difficult times and with all the financing choices available the decision can become even more challenging. Everyone’s situation is unique, and it’s hard to know which is the best option for you.

The Traditional Route Additional income in the form of interest, capital gains, or dividends can be generated by money in savings and investments, and can be used to pay for living expenses. Many of these options can be used as a line of credit, that can be tapped into to help pay for the various fees associated with senior living.

Working with Real Estate Assets Though it may not feel like it right now, real estate, such as the sale of a home, is still a great source of equity. Particularly so, when home ownership may have become a burden physically or financially. With the current economy, having a buyer on your timeline could be a challenge. A lesser-known option is connecting with reputable and qualified buyers who can pay you cash when you want it. Exploring this choice may be the perfect solution for you.

Utilizing Insurance A life settlement is a transaction in which a person sells the ownership of a life insurance policy for cash. Though not well known, this can be a good source of funds for those who qualify. These settlements can be done directly with an insurance company, or through a third party. Long-term care insurance is an option for paying for assisted living services. Health insurance, Medicare, or Medicaid does generally not cover long-term care. Premiums are typically based on the age of the insured, and can vary.

Government Benefits Government benefits offer solutions to those in need of some additional funding. For those who qualify, the VA Aid and Attendance Benefit will pay up to $23,388 for the veteran, and up to $12,672 for the surviving veteran, and it is tax-free. The VA has medical, financial and service related qualifying guidelines. Medicare coverage is generally provided for those in need of round the clock skilled nursing, or hospice care. For those individuals who have exhausted their resources, Medicaid can be used for approved nursing home care, and even assisted living services (though these programs are limited).

Some married couples may have a need to preserve jointly held funds for the well spouse, so the other spouse in need of skilled nursing, adult family home, or dementia specialty care can be covered by Medicaid. Qualified professionals who have specialized in elder care services could be an accountant, attorney, or a certified financial advisor.

12

Ask the local retirement and assisted living communities of interest to you to compare the cost of living in your own home, to that of living in their community. With most costs included in your monthly rent (housekeeping, maintenance, transportation, meals, and fun) you’ll find that the cost of senior housing is much more comparable than you may have originally thought.

We know the difference living in a retirement community can make in your life.

It’s the chance for a new beginning that can be just as sweet as your old life, if you give it a chance. With the potential for new friends, new interests, lots of choices and possibilities, it could even be sweeter; it’s ultimately up to you.

About Leisure Care Leisure Care operates elegant retirement communities that are all about Five-Star Fun. Above all else, Leisure Care wants residents to have more fun than anyone. They do this by setting colossal standards for quality and choice in guest services, amenities, resort-style living, and in all things “fun.” Driven by a genuine respect for residents and their families, Leisure Care’s employees strive to exceed customer expectations every day. The innovative spirit and dedication to service that began more than 35 years ago have allowed Leisure Care to become one of the nation’s top privately held senior housing companies.

For more information, please call us today at 425- 775-4440 or visit our website at www.leisurecare.com.

SENIOR guidebook – bridging generations

How can I afford a senior living community?

We Can Help You Understand Your Financial Choices and Resources So you, or a loved one, are ready to make a move to a senior community lifestyle. What’s the next step? In these difficult economic times, the financing choices can seem tough to navigate. We can help you discover the many resources you may not realize you have available to you! Whether it’s using traditional funding sources such as retirement accounts, real estate, and insurance, or less known sources such as government benefits, the options can be confusing. So, rely on our expertise to put your mind at ease. Call us today, or visit www.leisurecare.com to learn more. We’re here to help.

It’s More Than Retirement. It’s Five-Star Fun. Fairwinds - Brighton Court • 6520 - 196th St SW • Lynnwood • 425.775.4440 Fairwinds - Brittany Park • 17143 - 133rd Ave NE • Woodinville • 425.402.7100 www.leisurecare.com

www.seniorguidebook.com

13

Golfers Never Lose Their Swing Even Those With Memory Loss

by Maureen Manley

Anyone who is an avid golfer knows the importance of mastering his or her swing. If you watched the pros at the recent Masters Tournament, or any golfer at your local public course, you can see the detail and precision in preparing to hit that little ball with the head of a club. The swing is the thing. Ask any golfer and they’ll express their frustration, as well as their love for the game, in the same breath.

Being a caregiver for someone with Alzheimer’s carries its own share of frustration and love, as well as fear and loss experienced by those who suffer from the effects. Their inability to perform basic activities that used to be second nature, strips away self-confidence and joy. Many of the residents at Aegis of Bothell suffer from varying stages of memory loss, Alzheimer’s disease, and other forms of dementia. We are known for our creative activities and programming for such residents. I have been fortunate enough to have the experience to witness the unique power the game of golf has on these individuals.

I recently read an insightful article by Matthew Futterman, in the The Wall Street Journal. It was about the game of golf, and the staying power that the golf swing has on the human mind. Aegis of Bothell’s Executive Director, Karl Miller, and I recently set out to experience this in our own community. Karl, an avid golfer, created a putting course that would accommodate all levels of skill and mobility. His course is complete with the sounds of nature. Waterfalls and chirping birds produce a sense of the outdoors, and the peacefulness of the course.

One by one, the residents stepped up to try their hand, past players and non-players alike. As Monty, who is in the advanced stages of Alzheimer’s and a former golfer, stepped up, she took the club and went through her “ritual” of getting ready for the shot. She repositioned her legs and feet, eyed the ball and the hole, took a couple practices taps, and then SWING. Hole in one! The best part was watching Monty smile, as she raised her arms to cheer for herself, along with the rest of the crowd.

14

Karl and I have taken our “Golf to Go” show on the road, visiting local skilled nursing facilities and assisted living communities.

With each crowd that gathers we see those who are eager, and others that are timid. Everyone participates though, whether they’re taking a few shots themselves, or cheering on the willing. We travel to 1 or 2 locations on a monthly basis, setting up our course with entertaining names for each hole.“Through the Dog’s Legs,” is a favorite of many of our fans. Golfers have to hit the ball under a metal dog, with a wagging tail. Karl dresses up in the whole outfit...knickers, argyle socks, golf shirt, and cap. I follow along in an argyle vest and knickers, with signs to engage the crowd “Shhh,” “Quiet,” “Applause,” “Almost!” “So close!” We give out awards for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place, and bring along fresh lemonade for the players. The players come out of their shells, participate, and are focused on the moment.

As I learned from the Wall Street Journal article, golfing as an activity is a behavioral therapy, a common treatment that can be personalized to include a resident’s particular interests. Instead of creating a one size fits all activities program, we try to consider all residents as individuals and offer activities for each person’s preferences and hobbies. For some of our residents, this includes golf, and it is amazing to watch our residents utilize the motor memory of their golf swing. It may have been 20 years or more since they have picked up a golf club, but the response is automatic. According to experts in the field of neurology and the study of memory loss, people don’t lose motor memory. This recall ability allows our residents with dementia to enjoy a positive experience from their past, boosts confidence, and can even provide a small window of clarity.

For more information, please contact Maureen Manley at Aegis of Bothell, 425-487-3245 or visit www.AegisofBothell.com

SENIOR guidebook – bridging generations

Life’s calling. So answer. There are too many things to see and do, not to take advantage of every second. And we can help. Let us give you a hand. Consider us your second family—we’ll certainly treat you like you are.

Call the community nearest you or go to aegisliving.com for more information.

Totem Lake (Kirkland) 425-814-2841

Bothell

Bellevue

425-487-3245 425-453-8100

Callahan House (Shoreline) 206-417-9747

Edmonds

Kent

425-776-3600 253-520-8400

Issaquah

Kirkland

Lynnwood

Northgate (Seattle)

Redmond

Shoreline

425-392-8100

425-823-7272

425-712-9999

206-440-1700

425-883-4000

206-367-6700

www.seniorguidebook.com

15

16

SENIOR guidebook – bridging generations

She’s always been there for you.

Now it’s your turn. www.seniorguidebook.com

Caring for the Memory Impaired

Call us, we can help.

425.673.2875 www.rosewoodcourte.com 17

It’s The Fair – Country Style!

Skagit Senior Day in the Park • Thursday, August 19, 2010 • 10 am to 2 pm Burlington Senior Center / Maiben Park • 1011 Greenleaf Avenue, Burlington

Ever been to a good, old-fashioned county fair? Step into the summer scene with the hustle and bustle of exhibitors, the smells of animals, and fried food.

Can you hear the bands, the cattle, the babies, and the teens on carnival rides?

These are great memories both of long ago and of recent years, but remember all the walking? How far away from the fair gates did you park? How much was the parking fee? What about the ticket price? It was worth the cost and excitement as a teen or with a young family in tow, but for Senior Citizens?

Enough of all that! Step into the scene of Skagit Senior Day in the Park. For the past three years, this event has given Skagit County Seniors an alternative to wading through acres of crowds, animals, and wild rides. From Birds, Birds, Birds, to Garden Fair, yearly themes have brought interest and variety. Attendees have helped to judge quilts and garden baskets, by voting on their favorite display.

Last summer’s SSDP also brought a handmade birdhouse display contest, amongst friendly, competing exhibitors. An assortment of live music has also aided in drawing a wonderful crowd, who received optional free health screenings, canvas totes, prizes, and information from exhibitors. Our guests had a chance to observe and learn about a peregrine falcon and an owl from the Sarvey Birds of Prey bird sanctuary. For those who wanted to treat their own backyard feathered friends; a table was provided with supplies for making handmade bird feeders on the spot – including a main course of bread and peanut butter. It was a good day for neighborhood birds!

Many of our senior guests participated in drawings for a variety of prizes, and were those prizes worth filling out a ticket for...from beautiful gift baskets, birdhouses, gift cards, and more! That was last year though, and this year promises to be even more inviting! You’ll have the chance to meet old friends and new, at our 2010 Skagit Senior Day in the Park. The theme this year is Country Fair. Guests will again have an opportunity to step inside the Burlington 18

Senior Center to observe and vote on favorite quilts, crafted by artistic regional quilters. Browse around outside at the clean, well-constructed health exhibits, get a free health screening, and take home any of the offered information that matches your lifestyle and needs. Of course, one cannot attend a country fair without lunch...again, free of charge!

To top it all off, you will enjoy the entertainment lined up for our Country Fair.

Square dancers from several different dance clubs will show us how square dancing is done with style, and they come complete with a caller, costumes, and country flair! Also, look forward to hearing the Blankenship family of five, including parents and their children ages 14, 13, and 7. You will appreciate their youthful, country voices! Does anyone remember John Denver? If so, you will certainly enjoy his music, brought by a man who has taken it to heart. Ted Vigil not only sings Denver’s music, but also looks like him! From his clothes, hair style, and guitar, down to his personality and love for country music, Ted brings an exciting tribute to a past favorite country musician. For all you Denver fans, this is a treat not to miss!

Come on out to the Burlington Senior Center, adjacent to Maiben Park on Thursday, August 19, 2010, for Skagit Senior Day in the Park! There will be nearby parking for those who enjoy a short walk, and there will be a shuttle to bring our guests from a parking lot only a few blocks away. Just find and follow the balloons. It’s clean, it’s entertaining, it’s educational, and it’s free! For directions contact Kim Kelley at the Burlington Senior Center at 755-0102. We look forward to seeing you there!

Christine Blankenship Sedro-Woolley, Washington

SENIOR guidebook – bridging generations

I want only the best for Mom...and I’ve found it at

Special Memory Care Center

171 SW 6th Avenue Oak Harbor WA on beautiful

WHIDBEY ISLAND Homeplace provides a nurturing, familiar and uplifting environment where the needs of individuals matter.

• Caring staff onsite 24 hrs/7 days a week • Familiar daily routine • Medication assistance • Daily activities • Special events & outings

360.279.2555 hpoakharbormktg@frontiermgmt.com • www.homeplaceoakharbor.com www.seniorguidebook.com

19

Culture Shock and Wiggle Room

by Rick Steves

Many Americans board a plane for an overseas destination without fully realizing that they are flying into a completely different culture. Some experience culture shock: a psychological disorientation caused by immersion in a place where people do things – and see things – differently.

Once when I was having lunch at a cafeteria in Afghanistan, an older man joined me to make a point. He said,“I am a professor here in Afghanistan. In this world, one-third of the people use a spoon and fork like you, one-third use chopsticks, and one-third uses fingers – like me. We are all civilized the same.”

Most cultural groups develop separately, with their own logical (as far as they’re concerned) answers to life’s basic needs. While every culture is ethnocentric, thinking, “We do it right,” it’s important for travelers to understand that most solutions to life’s problems are neither right nor wrong. They are different. That’s what distinguishes cultures, and for a traveler, that makes life interesting.

Toilet paper (like a spoon or a fork) is another Western “essential” that most people on our planet do not use. What they use varies. I won’t get too graphic here, but remember that millions of civilized people on this planet never eat with their left hand. (Some countries such as Turkey have very frail plumbing, and toilet paper jams up the WCs. If wastebaskets are full of dirty paper, leave yours there, too)

Americans, like all groups, have their own peculiar traits and ways of doing things. It’s fun to look at our culture from a wider perspective, and see how others question our sanity. For instance, we consider ourselves very clean, but when we take baths, we use the same water for soaking, cleaning, and rinsing.

(We wouldn’t wash our dishes that way). The Japanese, who use clean water for every step of the bathing process, might find our ways strange or even disgusting. People in some cultures blow their nose right onto the street. They couldn’t imagine doing that into a small cloth, called a hanky, and storing it in their pocket to be used again and again.

20

Too often we judge the world in terms of “civilized” and “primitive.” I was raised thinking that the world was a pyramid with the US on top, and everyone else was trying to get there. I was comparing people on their ability (or interest) in keeping up with us in material consumption, science, and technology.

My egocentrism took a big hit when my parents took me to Europe. I was a pimply teenager in an Oslo park filled with parents doting over their adorable children. I realized those moms and dads loved their kids as much as my parents loved me. It hit me that this world is home to billions of equally precious children. From that day on, I was blessed...and cursed...with a broader perspective.

SENIOR guidebook – bridging generations

Over the years, I’ve found that if we measure cultures differently (maybe according to stress, loneliness, heart attack rates, hours spent in traffic jams, or family togetherness), the results stack up differently. It’s best not to fall into the “rating game.” All societies are complex and highly developed in their own way.

If a prescription could be written to cure culture shock, it would include instructions to:

Just as we have a stereotypical view of most of the world, most of the world sees us as a version of Uncle Sam. To the average Abdullah on the street – who’s seen plenty of American movies, TV shows, and tourists, and has read countless news stories about those crazy Yankees – we are outgoing, hardworking, informal, rushed, overconfident, and unconcerned with class distinctions and authority.

• Assume “strange” habits in this “strange” land are logical. Think of these habits as clever solutions to life’s problems.

Some of these traits are positive and others aren’t. Remember, there are no absolute good and bad when it comes to comparing lifestyles. For instance, while we may proudly ignore class ranks and think of our friendliness as a virtue, someone from India might be shocked at our “class ignorance.” The same way a Frenchman might see our “good-old-boy” slap-on-the-back warmth, as downright rude.

• Learn as much as you can about your host culture.

• Be militantly positive. Avoid the temptation to commiserate with negative Americans. Don’t joke disapprovingly about a culture you’re trying to understand.

• Make a local friend, someone you can confide in and learn from.

Most importantly, remember that different people find different truths to be “God-given” and “self-evident.” Things work best if we give everybody a little wiggle room. And that goes for more than just travelers.

Rick Steves (www.ricksteves.com) writes European travel guidebooks and hosts travel shows on public television and public radio. Email him at rick@ricksteves.com, or write to him c/o P.O. Box 2009, Edmonds, WA 98020.

Rick Steves grew up in Edmonds, Washington and studied at the University of Washington where he received degrees in Business Administration and European History. But his real education came in Europe – since 1973 he’s spent 120 days a year in Europe. Spending one third of his adult life living out of a suitcase in Europe has shaped his thinking. Today he employs 80 people at his Europe Through the Back Door headquarters in Edmonds where he produces 30 guidebooks on European travel, the most popular travel series in America on public television, a weekly hour-long national public radio show, and a weekly column syndicated by the Chicago Tribune. Rick and his wife Anne have traveled each of the last 22 years with their two kids, Andy and Jackie.

www.seniorguidebook.com

21

“We Wished We Had Heard About Hospice Sooner...”

by Annette Coffman

Time after time, spouses and families tell us “we wished we had heard about Hospice sooner.” Why aren’t people hearing about Hospice in time?

It must be one of the best kept secrets in healthcare: an amazing team of compassionate and skilled care providers all paid for by Medicare, Medicaid or insurance. Locally, if those resources are not available, then the Skagit Hospice Foundation can supplement the care. There should be no financial barrier to receiving hospice care from Skagit Hospice Services on Skagit, Island, San Juan or Snohomish Counties.

When Hospice services are requested, a team of professionals trained and educated in hospice and palliative care, begin their special work. They support the person with a life-threatening disease from the time they begin to have intensive care needs, all the way through the end-of-life. Hospice provides this support with doctors, nurses, social workers, chaplains, aides, volunteers and bereavement services. This holistic, interdisciplinary approach to the end-of-life takes into account all types of concerns: physical, emotional, psychological, spiritual, relational, financial and practical. Skagit Hospice Services provides all of this, and with it comes an enormous sense of confidence through a process that can be otherwise overwhelming for all involved.

Knowing how comprehensive Hospice care can be, again begs the original question, why are we not calling Hospice sooner? Unfortunately people think of this step as giving up, when actually studies show the opposite, patients usually live longer. You can find this and more about Hospice care on the internet, www.skagithospice.org, or by calling Skagit Hospice Services. They can provide information over the phone, mail it, or better yet, Hospice staff will come and visit to answer your questions in person. Your doctor does not have to make the initial call, and can work collaboratively with the Hospice staff to co-manage care once it begins.

Often times, people fear that the timeframe to use Hospice within is only six months. The truth is there is no limit to the time a person can receive Hospice care, as long as they remain medically eligible. When qualified, people can remain on Hospice for years. Unfortunately, more frequent than not, people receive Hospice for days instead of weeks, months, or years. The amazing work of Skagit Hospice Services is more beneficial if it is used for more than just a few days. However, If one only has days, the Hospice staff is still able to provide an

unanticipated and appreciated level of comfort and support, to the patient and their loved ones.

People have shared how unbelievably difficult making the initial call to Hospice is, but later revealed how relieved they were once they met with the Hospice staff. It is conceivable that most of us know a person who is Hospice eligible, yet not receiving care and afraid to call. Increased hospitalizations, weight loss, infections, and less ability to accomplish the activities of daily living (eating, bathing, dressing, toileting, walking) are things to look for as signs for increased care needs. Call for a friend and the Hospice staff will be happy to evaluate medical eligibility either in person, or via their doctor.

Skagit Hospice Services and the Skagit Hospice Foundation are working together to expand services, by developing plans for a Hospice House. This expansion will help to better serve this community. Within the next few years, not only will care be provided in people’s homes, skilled nursing, assisted living, retirement, and adult family home facilities, but also in a unique facility designed for hospice care. Skagit Hospice Services is changing their name to Hospice of the Northwest, to embrace all communities served: Skagit, San Juan, Island, and Snohomish Counties. So when you call for a friend, remember to look for Hospice of the Northwest, formerly known as Skagit Hospice Services.

Annette Coffman, M.A. is the Executive Director of Hospice of the Northwest Foundation. For more information you can contact Annette at 360-814-5702.

22

SENIOR guidebook – bridging generations

Service from the Heart

by Sheila Moreno

Many of the services offered at Somerset Memory Care Community are the basic services offered everywhere else. However, if you’re looking for more than the general feeding, bathing, dressing, grooming, and medical care our residents receive, then you’ve come to the right place. Somerset is able to offer all of those things, and so much more. Let me explain what I am talking about.

From the moment you decide Somerset is the place for your loved one, we collectively work as a team to establish their physical and medical needs.

Somerset staff is routinely trained in learning and applying new dementia-wise interaction skills. This creates a higher quality of life for our residents, while simultaneously making some of the staffs interactive tasks with our residents easier.

Along with this, our Social Service department connects with family members for further history. They discover their likes/dislikes, what type of dementia they may have, and any other pertinent history. Once gathered, these facts may greatly contribute to their overall quality of life, as well as ensuring there will be activities of genuine interest regularly offered to enhance their day.

Some of our services offered are strictly a Somerset quality, as most places do not have the benefit of a Social Services Department, whose director has a Master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling. As a result, Somerset is able to offer family members one-on-one counseling, while they are going through some of the hardest times they have ever faced.

Additionally, throughout the day our residents experience the benefits of Abraham Maslow’s 1943 “Maslow’s Hierarchy of Human Needs” theory, in practice. Use of this theory has purposefully created a pathway to a higher quality of life, than what would otherwise be possible.

To assure our residents psychological and mood state are being monitored, they may be assessed regarding depression, and cognitive decline/stabilization on an ongoing basis.

Finally, on the third Tuesday of every month at 10:00 am, Somerset facilitates a support group for family members. This is a time when questions can be answered, fears can be addressed, and where one can identify with others who are going through many of the same things. Most of all, it is a valuable link to the reminder that now and never do you have to be alone.

As a community, Somerset offers 24-hour admissions, same-day assessments, expedited move-in process, transportation, diabetic management, continence management (bowel and bladder), pain management, and our ability to specialize in challenging dementia behavior. We are confident you will enjoy and benefit, due to our many “from the heart” services.

If you would like to learn more about Maslow’s Hierarchy of Human Needs theory, please feel free to contact Sheila Moreno, MA, Director of Social Services at Somerset Memory Care Community, 425-348-8800.

www.seniorguidebook.com

23

Chronic Pain Syndrome and Ayurved continued from page 5 According to Ayurveda, good health depends upon our capability to fully metabolize all aspects of life, assimilating that which nourishes. and, eliminating the rest. Not only do we need to completely digest our food, but digesting our experiences and emotions is important, as well. Otherwise, toxins accumulate in our bodily tissues creating imbalance, and ultimately disease.

Panchakarma is an elegant cleansing process that releases stored toxins, and restores the body’s innate healing ability.

Treatments are mainly divided into three parts. First, preparation for cleansing called Poorva Karma, involves internal and external oleation treatments known as Snehan. Internal oleation is achieved by consuming medicated ghee, or other oil preparations. External oleation is achieved by massaging medicated oil preparation onto the body. Specialized points called Marma Point, vital points which are very comparable to acupressure and acupuncture points, are then worked in to the body. Fats have an unique ability to bind to many organic solvents, insecticides, pesticides, hydrocarbons, plastics and many more. This is followed by Swedan or sweating treatments, which is achieved by many different methods. This treatment helps to sweat out toxic load. In addition to these treatments, patients generally follow a hypoallergenic diet based on their Ayurvedic, psychosomatic body type and pathology. Yoga postures, breathing exercises and meditation, are also practiced along with treatments.

The second part is the main detoxification, which includes 1. Therapeutic vomiting known as Vaman, which I have replaced by modified fasting, as Americans are usually very averse to the thought of throwing up.

2. Purging known as Virechan, is achieved by purging herbs to cleanse the small intestine, liver and spleen.

3. Medicated enemas known as Basti, two kinds of enemas are administered, cleansing and then restorative to restore the functions of bowel.

4. Nasal treatments, medicated oils, herbal solutions are administered into the nostrils to detoxify nasal passages and sinuses, and restore balance to the olfactory senses. This treatment is called Nasya.

5. The last treatment is known as Rakt Mokshan, or Bloodletting. This was achieved by many different methods, with the use of leeches being one of these methods. I usually encourage selected patients to go for blood donation. Research concurs that people who donate blood live longer, which may be due to a diluted toxic load. I believe that females live longer than males because of menstruation, which constantly cleanse them. After the main detoxification, adaptogens are administered to rejuvenate and create a balance in the body.

I have found Panch Karma treatments to be very effective in almost all kinds of diseases, including chronic pain.

EXERCISE FOR CHRONIC PAIN People with chronic pain who exercise regularly require less medication, and often have the same level of pain relief. Specific exercises strengthen specific muscles, decrease pain, and strengthen muscles, tendons, and ligaments.

Endurance exercises reduce joint stress. Stronger muscles are less prone to micro-trauma and are fewer triggers for pain. Exercise done on a regular basis helps improve sleep and boosts energy. A good exercise program will include good alignment of the body, mind, muscles, and stretching, with a core 24

balancing endurance program. This should be done under a trained professional. Be aware however, that too often over zealous personal trainers have made my patients with chronic pain suffer more. Be sure to choose a professional who has experience with chronic pain. In spite of all the benefits, it is not very often prescribed by the physicians, according to a study published in the February 2009 issue of Arthritis Care & Research. Only 14.4% of patients were prescribed exercise by their Physicians. Physical therapists were the ones who most often prescribed an exercise program.

Yoga and Chronic Pain Using Yoga posture for pain management can help minimize medication usage and help you lead a happier and fuller life. The best techniques for pain management are Yoga breathing, relaxation, and meditation. These three aspects of Yoga act to distract your mind from pain, reduce your body’s tension in reaction to pain, and provide an opportunity to “move through” the pain instead of resisting it so it loses its impact. Yoga postures are believed to reduce pain by helping the brain’s pain center regulate the gate-controlling mechanism, located in the spinal cord, and the secretion of natural painkillers in the body.

Breathing exercises used in yoga can also reduce pain. Because muscles tend to relax when you exhale, lengthening the time of exhalation can help produce relaxation and reduce tension. Awareness of breathing helps to calm you, and aid in relaxation and pain management. The act of controlling the breath in yoga also helps reduce pain. The body has a natural phenomenon built into the nervous system, which keeps tension in the muscles “on stand by” when the lungs are full, or “pressurized.” Relaxation training is a step-by-step process of relaxing each of your body’s muscles. This exercise helps to counteract the body’s natural tendency to increase muscle tension, in an unconscious effort to “push” the pain away, which only causes the pain to increase. Mental relaxation is more effective in the relief of chronic pain, when combined with meditation and rhythmic breathing. I usually prescribe alternate nostril breathing for several minutes per day, which has shown remarkable improvement in moods and reduction in pain level.

Meditation and Chronic Pain Meditation training is a conscious effort to reduce your mind’s constant chatter and instead to simply concentrate on the feeling of not thinking. Regular daily practice of meditation builds a foundation of internal strength, by opening a door to a part of yourself that is not governed by the demands of your physical body. Start with five minutes, and slowly build up the time until you can do 20 minutes. Eventually, you might want to try two 20-minute sessions, one in the morning and another at night. A number of studies have been published to show beneficial effects of meditation in chronic pain.

SENIOR guidebook – bridging generations

AYURVEDIC HERBS FOR PAIN MANAGEMENT There are many Ayurvedic herbs that address ongoing excess inflammation. Among these are Salai (Boswellia serrata), proven in clinical studies to ease the pain of osteoarthritis, the priced spice Turmeric (Curcuma longa), Ginger (Zingiber officinale) known in Ayurveda as the “universal medication,” the powerful herb Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), and Guggal (Commiphora mukul). Taken alone or in combination with other herbs, these natural pain relievers address chronic inflammation without the serious side effects many chemical pharmaceuticals cause. What follows is a sampling of my clinical experience using these herbs for pain relief and control.

Salai (Boswellia serrata) This herb is unrivaled as a treatment for osteoarthritis. In a 2008 double blind, placebo controlled study; Boswellia serrata produced very rapid results in patients with osteoarthritis, many of whom were bedridden. The patients’ pain scores and functional abilities were markedly improved, and blood levels of cartilage-degrading enzymes decreased. In another study, all of the osteoarthritis patients treated with Boswellia reported reduced knee pain, increased knee flexion and increased walking distance. Swelling was also reduced considerably.

In a study using dogs, Boswellia produced improvements in intermittent lameness, localized pain and stiff gait. All the external factors that aggravate lameness, such as “lameness when moving” and “lameness after a long rest” diminished gradually.

I have used Boswellia with great success to treat patients with osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis. With holistic combinations of herbal therapy and Panch Karma detoxification, nutritional changes, and yoga, I have been able to take many patients off of prescription pain medications, including steroids.

Turmeric (Curcuma longa) My personal belief is that turmeric is responsible for the low cancer rate in India. Turmeric is a powerful antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-carcinogenic, anti-microbial and hepatoprotective spice. India has the lowest rate of Alzheimer’s disease in the world, and turmeric is thought to be that magic potion. I have used it with remarkable results in treating cardiovascular and gastrointestinal disorders.

As a pain-reliever, turmeric is potent in treating every aspect of inflammation.

Cox-2 inhibitors such as Celebrex and Vioxx were once touted as anti-inflammatory drugs without the side effects. However, many patients took these drugs for years before learning that they are associated with heart disease. Turmeric, on the other hand, has a much broader spectrum of anti-inflammatory activity than these drugs, without the side effects. Turmeric has been used as a culinary spice in many areas of the world for centuries, and its safety for human consumption is well established.

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) Ashwagandha is an important Ayurvedic rasayana – a rejuvenating tonic that enhances longevity and may be used over a long period of time without side www.seniorguidebook.com

effects. Clinical studies have shown Ashwagandha to relieve the pain of rheumatoid arthritis.

Ashwagandha is one of the Ayurvedic herbs that offer promise as an alternative to steroids. Its naturally occurring steroidal content is much higher than that of hydrocortisone, a commonly prescribed anti-inflammatory. I always choose Ashwagandha for patients with a need for steroids like hydrocortisone or prednisolone.

Ashwagandha always comes to the rescue with flying colors, allowing such patients to reduce or eliminate their need for steroids.

Ginger (Zingiber officinale) The medicinal value of ginger is so wide-reaching it’s often called the “universal medicine.” I remember it as Grandma’s answer to everything – from stomach aches to headaches and joint pain.

Ginger is a powerful anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant. It was studied in patients with rheumatic arthritis in two clinical trials. In one, seven RA patients reported pain relief, increased joint mobility, decreased swelling and reduced morning stiffness.

Guggal (Comiphora mukul) In the West, guggal is best known as a cholesterol-reducer. In Ayurveda, however, it has long been used to treat inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, and psoriatic arthritis.

I have treated hundreds of patients with conditions including rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, psoriatic arthritis, polymyalgia rheumatica, fibromyalgia, and asthma using the above said herbs, in combination with nutritional changes, exercise, yoga, meditation and the Panch karma detox program. I have been able to take patients off medications like Methotrexate, Enbrel, Humira, Remicade and Prednisone after three to sixteen months of Ayurvedic treatment. Even though my patients show tremendous improvement, I always advise them to stick to their nutritional program and lifestyle changes to ensure a lifetime of great health. I usually use combination formulas of standardized extracts of guggal with ashwagandha, turmeric, boswellia and ginger, for a synergistic anti-inflammatory effect. Recently a patient of RA returned after nine years to my clinic, who was treated with similar protocols and was in remission until now, when she went off her program and symptoms came back.

Conclusion Ayurvedic and naturopathic treatment modalities are effective in chronic pain management. We need to consider mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual aspects of the disease.

For more information about Dr. Virender Sodhi and the Ayurvedic Clinic, please visit www.ayurvedicscience.com Please note: This article is purely informative and should not replace the guidance of your physician. If you suffer from an illness, you should consult a physician before taking any herbs, vitamins, minerals or enzymes. Even at the peak of health, it is best to consult a qualified practitioner before taking any dietary supplement.

25

26

SENIOR guidebook – bridging generations

Welcome to SeniorGuidebook.com Video, Radio & Print

Catch videos of local experts covering health, nutrition, lifestyle, financial, legal and other senior issues.

RETIRE MENT OR VACATIO Some co N?

A Br A Br and New an A

WASHINGT mpare to a cruise ON OAKES sh never lea ip that ves port.

See ad

VIN d New Lifpartment Com EV TAGE e... mun ity...

See a ERE T AT d on page T

on page 1

At Life N E On mp IN GL t? u J A A nex T Get OUN y think of page 1 e M on at w Wh

ill th

ad See

KES ay N OAar Fun W INGTO Five St WASH Year the f the New #

Kicks Of 1 on page See ad

• 07 05 20 20 ER ook.comTER NT WI rguidek.cbomWIN io sen

eboo rguid senio

www.

Never A Dull Moment At Mountain Glen!

008

2 SeeIN our TE ad onRpage 1 k.com oo W guideb senior

1

SU APR/MAY/JUN SPRIN 2009 sen MM www.seniorguidebook.com G senior iorg ER guideb 2007 uid ook.co eb o 2 0 0 m ok.c 7 o m

E FRE

Search our archives for articles from Senior Guidebook

Flip through the latest issue of Senior Guidebook online

www.SeniorGuidebook.com www.seniorguidebook.com

27

28

SENIOR guidebook – bridging generations

DIRECTORY SNOHOMISH ARLINGTON Olympic Place Retirement & Assisted Living Community 20909 Olympic Place Arlington WA 98223 360-435-8440 EDMONDS Aegis of Edmonds Assisted Living/ Alzheimer’s Memory Care 21500 - 72nd Ave West Edmonds WA 98026 425-776-3600 Edmonds Landing Assisted Living 180 Second Ave South Edmonds WA 98020 425-744-1181 Rosewood Courte Assisted Living/Alzheimer’s memory impaired only 728 Edmonds Way Edmonds WA 98020 425-673-2875 Sunrise of Edmonds Assisted Living/Alzheimer’s Care 750 Edmonds Way Edmonds WA 98020 425-673-9700 EVERETT Bethany at Silver Crest Assisted Living/ Nursing Home Adjacent 2131 Lake Heights Drive Everett WA 98208 425-385-2335 Cascadian Place Retirement Retirement 3915 Colby Avenue Everett WA 98201 425-339-2225 Clare Bridge Silver Lake Alzheimer’s & Dementia Care 2015 Lake Heights Drive Everett WA 98208 425-337-6336 Emeritus at Silver Lake Assisted Living 12806 Bothell-Everett Highway Everett WA 98208 425-338-3227

www.seniorguidebook.com

Garden Court Retirement Community Independent and Assisted Living 520 - 112th Street SW Everett WA 98204 425-438-9080 Emeritus at Seabrook Independent and Assisted Living 11333 3rd Place W Everett WA 98204 425-347-0372 Somerset Memory Care Community Assisted Living / Alzheimer’s memory impaired only 524 - 75th Street SE Everett WA 98203 425-348-8800 Washington Oakes Retirement and Assisted Living 1717 Rockefeller Ave Everett WA 98201 425-339-3300 GRANITE FALLS The Village Independent Living 302 North Alder Avenue Granite Falls WA 98252 360-691-1777 LAKE STEVENS Ashley Pointe Independent and Assisted Living 11117 - 20th Street NE Lake Stevens WA 98258 425-397-7500 LYNNWOOD Aegis of Lynnwood Assisted Living 18700 44th Avenue West Lynnwood WA 98037 425-712-9999 Clare Bridge Lynnwood Alzheimer’s & Dementia Care 18706 - 36th Ave W Lynnwood WA 98037 425-774-3300 Chateau Pacific Independent & Assisted Living 3333 - 148th Street SW Lynnwood WA 98037 425-787-9693

Fairwinds – Brighton Court Retirement/Assisted Living 6520 - 196th Street SW Lynnwood WA 98036 425-775-4440 Scriber Gardens Independent & Assisted Living/Wellness Services 6024 200th Street SW Lynnwood WA 98036 425-673-7111 Sunrise of Lynnwood Assisted Living/Alzheimer’s Care 18625 - 60th Ave W Lynnwood WA 98037 425-771-7700 MARYSVILLE Grandview Village Retirement & Assisted Living 5800 - 64th Street NE Marysville WA 98270 360-653-2223 Merrill Gardens at Marysville Independent & Assisted Living 9802 - 48th Dr NE Marysville WA 98270 360-659-1279 MILL CREEK Mill Creek Gardens Assisted Living/ Alzheimer’s memory impaired only 13200 - 10th Dr SE Mill Creek WA 98012 425-379-8276 Merrill Gardens at Mill Creek Independent and Assisted Living 14905 Bothell Everett Hwy Mill Creek WA 98012 425-338-1580 MONROE Merrill Gardens at Monroe Independent and Assisted Living/Alzheimer’s Memory Impaired 15465 - 179th Ave SE Monroe WA 98272 360-794-4284 MOUNTLAKE TERRACE Mountlake Terrace Plaza A Merrill Gardens Community Independent and Assisted Living 23303 - 58th Ave W Mountlake Terrace WA 98043 425-672-4673

MUKILTEO Harbour Pointe Independent and Assisted Living 10200 Harbour Place Mukilteo WA 98275 425-493-8555 SNOHOMISH Sunrise of Snohomish Assisted Living/Alzheimer’s Care 1124 Pine Ave Snohomish WA 98290 360-568-1900 STANWOOD Josephine Sunset Home Assisted Living/Nursing Home Adjacent 9901 - 272nd Place NW Stanwood WA 98292 360-629-2126 Merrill Gardens at Stanwood Independent & Assisted Living/ Alzheimer’s and Dementia Care 7212 - 265th Street NW Stanwood WA 98292 360-629-3445 Stanwood Community & Senior Center Independent Living 7430 - 276th Street NW Stanwood WA 98292 360-629-7403 Warm Beach Senior Community Independent & Assisted Living/ Skilled Nursing 20420 Marine Drive Stanwood WA 98292 360-652-7585 SKILLED NURSING CARE Aldercrest - Edmonds 425-775-1961 Bethany at Pacific - Everett 425-259-5508 Bethany at Silver Lake - Everett 425-338-3000 Delta Rehab Center - Snohomish 360-568-2168 Edmonds Rehab and Healthcare –Edmonds 425-778-0107 Everett Rehab and Care Center Everett 425-513-1600 Everett Trans. Care - Everett 425-258-7552

29

Forest View Trans. Health Center –Everett 425-258-4474 Josephine Sunset Home Stanwood 360-629-2126 Lynnwood Manor Health Center Lynnwood 425-776-5512 Madeleine Villa Health Care Marysville 360-659-1259 HCR Manor Care - Lynnwood 425-775-9222 Marysville Care Center Marysville 360-659-3926 Merry Haven Health Care Center Snohomish 360-568-3161 Parkway Nursing Center Snohomish 360-568-8566 Regency Care Center at Arlington - Arlington 360-403-8247 Regency Care Center of Monroe Monroe 360-794-4011 Sunrise View Convalescent Center - Everett 425-353-4040

SKAGIT ANACORTES Fidalgo Care Center & Rosario Assisted Living Assisted Living/Skilled Nursing/ Secured Dementia Care/Rehab 1105 27th Street Anacortes WA 98221 360-293-3174 Cap Sante Court Retirement 1111 32nd Street Anacortes,WA 98221 360-293-8088 Chandler’s Square Retirement/Assisted Living 1300 “O” Ave. Anacortes WA 98221 360-293-1300 MOUNT VERNON The Bridge Assisted Living/Hospice 301 S LaVenture Mount Vernon WA 98274 360-416-0400 Highland Greens Senior Apartments Affordable Senior Apartments 3100 N 30th St Mount Vernon WA 98273 360-848-8422

30

Highland Greens Townhomes Senior Residences Village Court @ 3200 N 30th St Mount Vernon WA 98273 360-540-1438 Life Care Center of Mount Vernon Assisted Living/ Skilled Nursing/ Rehab/Alzheimer’s 2120 E Division Mount Vernon WA 98274 360-424-4258 Logan Creek Retirement/Independent Living 2311 E Division Mount Vernon WA 98274 360-428-0222 Mountain Glen Retirement/Assisted Living 1810 East Division Mount Vernon WA 98274 360-424-7900 Salem Village II Senior Residences 2601-2617 N LaVenture Rd Mount Vernon WA 98273 360-540-1438 Salem Village Apartments Affordable Senior Apartments 2619 N. LaVenture Rd Mount Vernon WA 98273 360-428-5662

Bellingham Health Care & Rehab Licensed Skilled Nursing/ Specialized Care 1200 Birchwood Bellingham WA 98225 360-734-9295

St. Francis Extended Health Care Licensed Skilled Nursing 3121 Squalicum Pkwy Bellingham WA 98225 360-734-6760

Cordata Health Care & Rehab Center Licensed Skilled Nursing 4680 Cordata Parkway Bellingham WA 98226 360-398-1966 Fairhaven Estates Assisted Living 2600 Old Fairhaven Parkway Bellingham WA 98225 360-647-1254 Highgate House Assisted Living/Specialized Care 151 & 155 East Kellogg Bellingham WA 98226 360-671-1459 Highland Care Center Licensed Skilled Nursing 2400 Samish Way Bellingham WA 98226 360-734-4800 The Leopold Retirement & Assisted Living 1224 Cornwall Ave Bellingham WA 98225 360-733-3500 Merrill Gardens at Cordata Retirement/Assisted Living/ Specialized Care 4415 Columbine Dr Bellingham WA 98226 360-715-8822

Country Meadow Village Retirement & Assisted Living 1501 Collins Rd Sedro-Woolley WA 98284 360-856-0404

Mt. Baker Care Center Licensed Skilled Nursing 2905 Connelly Ave Bellingham WA 98225 360-734-4181

Life Care Center of Skagit Valley Skilled Nursing 1462 West SR 20 Sedro-Woolley WA 98284 360-856-6867

Parkway Chateau Retirement/Independent Living 2818 Old Fairhaven Parkway Bellingham WA 98225 360-671-6060

BELLINGHAM Alderwood Park Licensed Skilled Nursing 2726 Alderwood Bellingham WA 98225 360-733-2322

Summit Place at Mt. Baker Assisted Living 2901 Connelly Ave Bellingham WA 98225 360-738-8447 The Courtyard Dementia Care Community Assisted Living/Enhanced Specialized Care 848 W Orchard Dr Bellingham WA 98225 360-715-1338

ISLAND

SEDRO-WOOLLEY Birchview - A Memory Care Community Assisted Living/ Enhanced Adult Residential Care 925 Dunlop Ave Sedro-Woolley WA 98284 360-856-1911

WHATCOM

Spring Creek Retirement & Assisted Living 223 E Bakerview Road Bellingham WA 98226 360-756-2301

Rosewood Villa Retirement/Assisted Living 702 32nd Street Bellingham WA 98225 360-676-9193 Shuksan Health Care Center Licensed Skilled Nursing 1530 James Street Bellingham WA 98225 360-733-9161

FREELAND Maple Ridge Assisted Living Community 1767 Alliance Avenue Freeland WA 98249 360-331-1303 OAK HARBOR Harbor Tower Village Retirement & Assisted Living 100 E Whidbey Ave Oak Harbor WA 98277 360-675-2569 Home Place Alzheimer’s & Dementia Care 171 SW 6th Ave Oak Harbor WA 98277 360-279-2555 Regency on Whidbey Assisted Living, Independent Cottages, Harbor Care 1040 & 1045 SW Kimball Dr Oak Harbor WA 98277 360-279-0933 & 360-279-2224 Summer Hill Retirement and Assisted Living 165 SW 6th Ave. Oak Harbor WA 98277 360-679-1400

SENIOR guidebook – bridging generations

KING AUBURN Auburn Meadows Assisted Living/Memory Care 945 22nd Street NE Auburn WA 98002 253-333-0171 BELLEVUE Aegis of Bellevue Assisted Living / Memory Care 148 102nd Ave SE Bellevue WA 98004 425-453-8100 The Bellettini Luxury Apartment Homes in the Heart of Bellevue / 62+ 1115 108th Avenue NE Bellevue WA 98004 425-450-0800 Brighton Gardens of Bellevue Assisted Living & Alzheimer’s Care 15241 NE 20th Street Bellevue WA 98007 425-401-0300 Sunrise of Bellevue Assisted Living & Alzheimer’s Care 15928 NE 8th Street Bellevue WA 98008 425-401-5152 Wynwood Bellevue Assisted Living Alzheimer’s & Dementia Care 1640 148th Ave SE Bellevue WA 98007 425-373-1161 BOTHELL Aegis of Bothell Assisted Living / Memory Care 10605 NE 185th Street Bothell WA 98011 425-487-3245 Chateau at Bothell Landing Independent & Assisted Living 17543 102nd Ave. NE Bothell WA 98011 425-485-1155 Life Care Center of Bothell Assisted Living/Skilled Nursing 707 228th Street SW Bothell WA 98021 425-481-8500

www.seniorguidebook.com

North Creek Retirement & Assisted Living 907 201st Place SE Bothell WA 98012 425-483-8927 Riverside East Retirement & Assisted Living 10315 East Riverside Drive Bothell WA 98011 425-481-1976 Vineyard Park at Bothell Landing Independent & Assisted Living Community 10519 East Riverside Drive Bothell WA 98011 425-485-8900 BURIEN El Dorado West Retirement & Assisted Living 1010 SW 134th Street Burien WA 98146 206-248-1975 COVINGTON Covington Place Retirement Apartments 26906 169th Place SE Covington WA 98042 888-548-6609 ENUMCLAW High Point Village Retirement & Assisted Living 1777 High Point Street Enumclaw WA 98022 360-825-7780 FEDERAL WAY Foundation House Independent Living Personalized Assisted Living 32290 1st Avenue S Federal Way WA 98003 253-838-8823 ISSAQUAH Aegis of Issaquah Assisted Living / Memory Care / Hospice 780 NW Juniper Street Issaquah WA 98027 425-526-6037 KENMORE Spring Estates - Kenmore Assisted Living 7221 NE 182nd Street Kenmore WA 98028 425-481-4200

KENT Aegis of Kent Alzheimer’s / Memory Care 10421 SE 248th Street Kent WA 98030 253-479-1768

Peters Creek Retirement & Assisted Living 14431 Redmond Way Redmond WA 98052 425-869-2273

Farrington Court Retirement / Assisted Living 516 Kenosia Avenue Kent WA 98030 253-852-2737

The Marymoor Retirement & Assisted Living 4585 W. Lake Sammamish Parkway NE Redmond WA 98052 425-556-9398

KIRKLAND Aegis of Kirkland Assisted Living / Memory Care 13000 Totem Lake Boulevard Kirkland WA 98034 425-823-7272

RENTON The Lodge Retirement / Assisted Living 1600 South Eagle Ridge Drive Renton WA 98055 425-793-8080

Aegis at Totem Lake Retirement / Assisted Living / Memory Care 12629 116th Avenue NE Kirkland WA 98034 425-814-2841

SEATTLE Aegis at Northgate Memory Care 11039 17th Avenue NE Seattle WA 98125 206-440-1700

Kirkland Lodge Assisted Living 6505 Lakeview Drive NE Kirkland WA 98033 425-803-6911

CRISTWOOD Retirement Community Residential/Assisted Living Skilled Nursing/Onsite Home Health 19303 Fremont Avenue North Seattle (Shoreline) WA 98133 1-877-639-3292 / 206-546-7565

Madison House / Totem Lake Retirement / Assisted Living 12215 NE 128th Street Kirkland WA 98034 425-821-8210 Merrill Gardens at Kirkland Independent & Assisted Living 201 Kirkland Avenue Kirkland WA 98033 425-828-2570 MERCER ISLAND Sunrise of Mercer Island Assisted Living & Alzheimer’s Care 2959 76th Avenue SE Mercer Island WA 98040 206-232-6565 REDMOND Aegis of Redmond Assisted Living / Memory Care 7480 West Lake Sammamish Parkway NE Redmond WA 98052 425-883-4000 Fairwinds – Redmond Retirement / Assisted Living 9988 Avondale Rd NE Redmond WA 98052 425-558-4700

Merrill Gardens at Northgate Independent and Assisted Living 11501 15th Avenue NE Seattle WA 98125 206-362-7250 Merrill Gardens at Queen Anne Independent and Assisted Living 805 4th Ave N Seattle WA 98109 206-284-0055 Merrill Gardens at Renton Centre Independent and Assisted Living 104 Burnett Ave S Renton WA 98057 425-235-6400 Merrill Gardens at West Seattle Independent 4611 35th Ave SW Seattle (West) WA 98126 206-932-5480 Merrill Gardens Admiral Heights Independent and Assisted Living 2326 California Ave. S.W. Seattle (West) WA 98116 206-938-3964

31

Merrill Gardens at the University Independent & Assisted Living 5115 25th Ave NE Seattle WA 98105 206-523-8400 Mirabella Independent, Assisted Living, Skilled Nursing & Memory Care 116 Fairview Ave N Seattle WA 98109 206-254-1447 Northgate Plaza A Merrill Gardens Community Independent & Assisted Living 11030 5th Ave NE Seattle WA 98125 206-363-6740 Remington Place Retirement 3025 NE 137th Street Seattle WA 98125 206-367-0369 Ballard Landmark Retirement/Assisted Living 5433 Leary Ave NW Seattle WA 98107 206-782-4000 the Stratford at Maple Leaf Independent, Assisted Living and Memory Care 9001 Lake City Way NE Seattle WA 98115 206-729-1200 SHORELINE Aegis of Shoreline and Callahan House Independent, Assisted Living and Memory Care 14900 & 15100 First Avenue NE Shoreline WA 98155 206-367-6700 and 206-417-9747 WOODINVILLE Fairwinds – Brittany Park Retirement / Assisted Living 17143 - 133rd Ave NE Woodinville WA 98072 425-402-7100 The Creekside A Merrill Gardens Community Independent Retirement Community 18200 Woodinville-Snohomish Road NE Woodinville WA 98072 425-483-7953

32

KITSAP PORT ORCHARD Park Vista Retirement & Assisted Living 2944 SE Lund Avenue Port Orchard WA 98366 360-871-2323 SILVERDALE CRISTA Shores Retirement Community Residential, Assisted Living 1600 NW Crista Shores Lane Silverdale WA 98383 1-800-722-4135 / 360-613-3502

PIERCE BONNEY LAKE Cedar Ridge Retirement & Assisted Living 9515 198th Avenue E Bonney Lake WA 98391 253-299-6461 GIG HARBOR Clare Bridge Shoreline View Alzheimer’s & Dementia Care 9324 N Harborview Drive Gig Harbor WA 98332 253-858-7790 Merrill Gardens at Gig Harbor Independent and Assisted Living 3213 45th Street Court N.W. Gig Harbor WA 98335 253-858-5300 Sound Vista Village Retirement & Assisted Living 6633 McDonald Avenue Gig Harbor WA 98335 253-851-9929 MILTON Mill Ridge Village Retirement & Assisted Living 607 28th Avenue Milton WA 98354 253-925-9200 PUYALLUP Clare Bridge Puyallup Alzheimer’s & Dementia Care 8811 176th Street E Puyallup WA 98375 253-445-1300 Merrill Gardens at Puyallup Independent and Assisted Living 123 4th Avenue NW Puyallup WA 98371 253-848-1234

Silver Creek Retirement & Assisted Living 17607 91st Avenue E Puyallup WA 98375 253-875-8644 TACOMA Life Manor Independent Senior Living 1601 S.Union Avenue Tacoma WA 98405 253-383-3363

YELM Rosemont Retirement & Assisted Living 215 Killion Road NW Yelm WA 98597 360-458-1800

CLALLAM PORT ANGELES Park View Villas Retirement & Assisted Living 1430 Park View Lane Port Angeles WA 98363 360-452-7222

Life Manor Assisted Living Community 1609 S.Union Avenue Tacoma WA 98405 253-779-3800

JEFFERSON

Villas Union Park Independent Living 2010 S Union Avenue Tacoma WA 98405 253-752-6870

PORT TOWNSEND Discovery View Retirement Apartments 1051 Hancock Street Port Townsend WA 360-385-9500

Wynwood Allenmore Personalized Assisted Living 3615 S 23rd Street Tacoma WA 98405 253-759-7770

Seaport Landing Retirement & Assisted Living 1201 Hancock Street Port Townsend WA 98368 360-379-9376

GRAYS HARBOR HOQUIAM Channel Point Village Retirement & Assisted Living 907 K Street Hoquiam WA 98550 360-532-9000

THURSTON LACEY Woodland Retirement & Assisted Living 4532 Intelco Loop SE Lacey WA 98503 360-528-3253 OLYMPIA Clare Bridge Olympia Alzheimer’s & Dementia Care 420 Yauger Way SW Olympia WA 98502 360-236-1400 Merrill Gardens at Olympia Independent and Assisted Living 616 Lilly Road N.E. Olympia WA 98506 360-456-0601

SENIOR guidebook – bridging generations

24

Now Offering 24 Hour Nursing! /7

At

Somerset

we

are

for ways toimprove lives

of

our

always

looking

the everyday

residents

and

we

ar

proud to to announce announcethat thatonce once again again we are are leading

the the pack pack

with our our care. care.

From our our Dementia Dementia Specialized Social Social Worker, to to an an experienced nurse nurse

& core areare core staff staffwewe the

Go to to Place Place

for your your loved lovedone one with memory memory loss. loss.

524 75th St. SE.

Everett, WA 98203

425.348.8800

Visit us at www.SomersetMemoryCare.com

A Nor thwest Care Management Proper ty

A B e t te r Way o f L i f e .

Kiss your hedge clippers goodbye.

Forever.

Forget everything you knew about senior living, GenCare Lifestyle has made it all obsolete. We’re talking organic foods, vitality and stay sharp centers, and wellness programs that focus on balance, Ballard

flexibility and strength. Plus, you’ll enjoy giving back and staying

Granite Falls

connected to your local community through a wide range

Lake City

of rewarding opportunities.

Lynnwood Renton

It’s a whole new approach we call Whole Life Living, and we’d love to tell you more about it.

gencarelifestyle.com 206.782.4000

Give us a call today.