Looking Forward - Summer 2014

Looking

Summer 2014

Forward

Planning for Life After 50 With informative features on finance, health and wellness, retirement living and more!

K C

CHRONICLE

Kane County Chronicle / KCChronicle.com • Saturday, July 26, 2014

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The 10 warning signs of Alzheimer’s disease 2. Difficulty planning.

Fearfulness or feelings of anxiety are changes in mood and personality that could indicate Alzheimer’s disease.

Few families are fortunate enough to say they have not been impacted

by Alzheimer’s disease. A progressive, degenerative disease of the brain, Alzheimer’s impairs thinking and memory, accounting for 50 to 80 percent of dementia cases according to the Alzheimer’s Association.

Though many people’s experiences with Alzheimer’s disease involves an elderly relative, the disease is not exclusive to the elderly. Up to 5 percent of people with the disease have early-onset Alzheimer’s, which most often appears when someone is in their 40s and 50s.

In 2011, 59-year-old Pat Summitt, the all-time winningest coach in NCAA basketball history and a beloved figure on the campus of the University of Tennessee, revealed that she had been diagnosed with early-onset dementia, Alzheimer’s type. That announcement opened the eyes of men and women across the country, who might otherwise never have known that dementia could strike so early or to someone who seemed as healthy as Summitt, who vowed to continue coaching despite the diagnosis. Because it can strike men and women even if they aren’t elderly, it’s important to know these 10 warning signs of Alzheimer’s, courtesy of the Alzheimer’s Association and the Alzheimer Society of Canada.

1. Memory loss that disrupts daily life.

Memory loss is one of the most common signs of Alzheimer’s. This is especially so if men and women forget things that happened very recently, which can negatively impact their daily lives. Additional signs include forgetting important dates and events; asking for the same information over and over again; or relying on memory aides such as reminder notes or even family members for things individuals could once remember on their own.

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Some people might start to exhibit difficulty following a plan or working with numbers, be it following a recipe or paying the monthly bills. Concentration is often difficult for those exhibiting symptoms of Alzheimer’s.

3. Difficulty completing familiar tasks.

Daily tasks such as driving to work or remembering the rules of a familiar game will prove difficult for people with Alzheimer’s.

4. Disorientation with regards to time and/or place.

Nearly everyone has had momentary lapses where they forget what time it is or what day it is. But such lapses are not momentary for people with Alzheimer’s, who might even get lost on their own street and not remember how to get home.

5. Trouble understanding images and spatial relationships.

Some people with Alzheimer’s have difficulty reading, judging distance or determining color or contrast. For example, a person with Alzheimer’s might walk past a mirror and not realize he or she is the person in the mirror.

6. New problems with words in speaking or writing.

People with Alzheimer’s might experience trouble holding or joining a conversation. An example is stopping in the middle of a conversation and having no idea how to continue. They might also struggle with vocabulary, often having trouble finding the right word to express what they’re thinking.

7. Misplacing things.

People with Alzheimer’s might put things in unusual places and then experience difficulty retracing their steps to find those items. This tends to occur more frequently over time, and they often accuse others of stealing items they simply can’t find.

8. Decreased or poor judgement.

Poor judgement, such as not visiting the doctor or mishandling finances, is another warning sign for Alzheimer’s. These poor decisions can extend to personal grooming, which men and women with Alzheimer’s might neglect.

9. Withdrawal from society.

Men and women with Alzheimer’s might start to withdraw from society, removing themselves from social activities, projects at work or hobbies.

Avid sports fans might no longer be able to follow their favorite team, while social butterflies might grow reclusive.

10. Changes in mood and personality.

People with Alzheimer’s might experience mood swings for no apparent reason and can become anxious, confused, depressed, fearful, or suspicious. Acting out of character might also be indicative of Alzheimer’s.

More information about Alzheimer’s disease is available at www.alz.org and www.alzheimer.ca.

At Arden Courts, we know. We understand.

We can help because memory care is all we do.

Join us for an Open House from 9:00 am to 7:00 pm on July y 29th and 30th.

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Sunnymere of Aurora, located at 925 Sixth Avenue, is one of the ‘best kept secrets’ in Aurora. 75 years ago, on July 16, 1939, through the contributions of Clara Bowron, Fannie Henderson, and other women, including Jessie Farnsworth, who donated land and her estate to build a new senior home, the eleven women and one man who had been living in“The Old Ladies Home” in Aurora, moved to their new home at Sunnymere. Sunnymere is ‘off the beaten path,’ located on 7 wooded acres, directly adjacent to the northern edge of Phillips Park Golf Course. Today, Sunnymere, as a not-for-profit entity, with the endowments left by these wonderful, generous women, continues to provide quality, affordable living for those age 65 and over.

As a small community (maximum 47 residents), Sunnymere has a very ‘homey’ atmosphere, with antiques, high ceilings, hard wood floors, and a large covered veranda that allows residents and guests to enjoy nature and watch the golfers or listen to the sounds of nature.

Sunnymere provides Independent and Assisted care in Studio Rooms or Two-room Suites. Our staff provide all three meals, do all housekeeping and laundry, and offer daily activities such as Bingo, chair

925 Sixth Ave. Aurora IL 60505

630-898-7844

www.sunnymere.com

Sunnymere’s charming Veranda overlooking Phillips Park Golf Course

At Sunnymere, rates include all meals, housekeeping, laundry and activities.

Studio Rooms $1500 per month Independent Care 2-room Suites $2060 for one Individual on Independent Care Studio Rooms $2990 for one Individual on Assisted Care 2-room Suites $2560 for two Individual on Independent Care Rates for couples who need Assisted care for one or both are available on request Serving seniors since 1895 with our start as “The Old Ladies Home of Aurora”)

At Sunnymere, our caring staff provide the ‘day-to-day care-giving’ so you, as a son, daughter, or friend, can enjoy your time together. adno=0283382

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exercise, Bible devotions, card or board games, puzzles, Zumba Gold, Trivia brain exercises, Bean Bag Baseball, Wii Bowling, etc. as well as entertaining programs for the enjoyment of our residents. Larry Duy, who was the main cook at the old Bill’s Restaurant in Montgomery for many years, is our Chef. Our meals are delicious!

As one of our resident’s daughter said, “Sunnymere does all the ‘day-to-day’ care-giving so that when I come to visit, I can just be his daughter, not his caregiver. We can just enjoy being in each others company.”

When the time comes that an older relative can no longer safely live on his or her own, or if a couple can no longer provide adequate, safe care for one another, we hope that you will consider coming for a tour to see what Sunnymere can offer. Residents bring their own furniture, artwork, and make their rooms ‘their own.’

On the third Wednesday of each month, at 8:30 a.m., Sunnymere hosts a ‘Breakfast Club’ open to the public with a hot breakfast and speakers on various topics. Those wishing to attend are asked to call to make a reservation by the Monday before the breakfast.

Sunnymere is located at 925 Sixth Avenue in Aurora. You may call us at 630-898-7844. Our website is www.sunnymere.com. ‘Like’ us on Facebook -Sunnymere of Aurora.

SENIOR LIVING | Kane County Chronicle / KCChronicle.com

Sunnymere Celebrates 75 Years

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Kane County Chronicle / KCChronicle.com • Saturday, July 26, 2014

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“Early Detection Key for Treating Glaucoma” by Dr. Anjali S. Hawkins M.D. (ARA) - Hearing loss is common, but the perception that hearing loss is only caused by aging is incorrect. More than 36 million American have hearing loss. Changing lifestyle habits, and treating a variety of health conditions can help to prevent hearing loss.

Seven healthy habits may help prevent or delay the onset of hearing loss.

1. Noise

Noise-induced hearing loss is the most common yet preventable cause of hearing loss. Exposure to dangerous levels of noise can occur at work, home and in many recreational activities. Wear ear plugs or muffs when operating loud equipment (i.e., lawn mowers, power saws, leaf blower, etc.) or when using firearms. Buy quieter products (compare dB ratings advertised on the products - the smaller the better).

2. iPod/MP3 Players

Listening to MP3 players at dangerous levels can cause permanent hearing loss. You can download apps to ensure noise exposure through your iPod does not exceed dangerous decibel levels. “Volume Limit” is a switch in the “settings” section of your iPhone or iPod to make sure that your hearing is protected. This allows you to set a maximum level for the volume output of the media player and even put a 4-digit code on it to keep it fixed.

3. Diabetes

The National Institute of Health (NIH) has found that hearing loss is twice as common in people with diabetes. Furthermore, of the 79 million adults with pre-diabetes, the rate of hearing loss is 30 percent higher than in those with normal blood sugar levels. Moderate weight loss, eating healthy and exercise can delay or prevent type 2 diabetes among adults at-risk for diabetes.

4. Smoking

Smoking is a risk factor for hearing loss. Smokers are nearly 70 percent more likely than nonsmokers to suffer hearing loss. Exposure to secondhand tobacco smoke almost doubles the risk of hearing loss among adolescents. Studies show that smoking, age and noise exposure together increase the risk for hearing loss more than each of these factors alone.

5. Cardiovascular disease

Not only does exercise help to prevent type 2 diabetes, but cardiovascular health and hearing health appear associated. Growing evidence suggests a link between hearing loss and poor cardiovascular health.

6. Earwax (Cerumen)

Don’t swab your ear canals. Cerumen cleans and lubricates the skin of the ear canal and provides protection from bacteria, fungi, insects and water. Attempting to remove cerumen or cleaning the ear canal with a cotton swab tends to push earwax deeper into the ear canal. Excess or impacted cerumen can press against the eardrum and/or occlude the external auditory canal resulting in hearing loss.

7. See an audiologist

Susceptibility to hearing loss is often undiagnosed and unrecognized.

Call 888-833-EARS (3277) or visit www.audiologyawareness.com to find an audiologist in your area.

The Doctors of Geneva Eye Clinic are committed to providing you with the highest level of eye care available.

Ronald J. Simone, M.D.

Anjali S. Hawkins, M.D., Ph.D

Norbert M. Becker, M.D.

Katherine Z. Brito, M.D.

Kenya M. Williams, M.D. Kevin M. King, M.D. Patricia A. Steiner, O.D.

Geneva Eye Clinic

1000 Randall Road • Geneva, IL • 630.232.1282 www.genevaeye.com adno=0283035

Prime Studio now available!

appetizers from the Chef, a variety of liquid libations, and the joy of each other’s company.

The activities offered give residents plenty of options and a way to socialize year-round with friends and neighbors; and instills a real sense of community among the residents and a great sense of belonging.

For over 50 years, residents have chosen to live at Plum Landing due to the wide variety of services it provides and its dedicated and friendly staff. The staff believes that seniors are looking for quality services, comfortable apartments, gracious dining, and great value. As soon as residents walk into Plum Landing they feel that sense of community and belonging.

“Our residents came from communities surrounded by neighbors they cared about” says Executive Director Don Mangers. “We’re proud to have those types of residents, and do all that we can to foster a similar atmosphere. Also, having grown up in Aurora, I enjoy running in to old neighbors and acquaintances from around town; so will you.”

For more information on Plum Landing, their guaranteed rate incentive, or to schedule a lunch tour call Amanda Castro at (630) 896-5031; or you can visit them online at www.plumlanding.org.

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Call Today For a Free Lunch Tour!

Plum Landing Retirement Community 495 N. Lake Street, Aurora, IL 60506 • 630-896-5031 www.plumlanding.org • www.facebook.com/plumlanding1

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convenient location allows easy access to the Paramount Theater, Hollywood Casino, and the new RiverEdge Park that recently opened across the river. I-88 and the transportation center are minutes away for out of town family and friends, or residents!

Plum Landing also offers a full activity program, with scheduled trips to events in the local area. For example, residents attend plays at the Paramount, make annual trips to Starved Rock and every fall they make a trip to Arlington Park Race Track; which came about from one resident’s interest in horse racing.

In addition to daytrips, Plum Landing offers a wealth of options for keeping occupied and enjoying the company of fellow residents.

Plum Landing offers weekly exercise and yoga classes, coffee hours, and easy access to the beautiful McCullough Park and Prisco Center right next door. Taking an early morning walk or an afternoon stroll has never been easier!

Additionally, residents enjoy the variety of popular games available, ranging from the popular staples such as Bingo and Tripoley, to newer games like Dime Jingle and Wii Bowling (and do not forget to ask about joining the Bean Bag Baseball team)! Lastly, the most popular program is Happy Hour. Residents enjoy

SENIOR LIVING | Kane County Chronicle / KCChronicle.com

Plum Landing Retirement Community is excited to announce their New Guaranteed Rate for Life Incentive! Right now if you sign an annual agreement, Plum Landing will guarantee your rate for as long as you live here, which means you’ll never have a cost of living increase! For those on a fixed income, you know how big a relief it is to know that your financial future is secure and you’ll be able to afford to live here for many years to come.

When Plum Landing Retirement Community opened its doors in 1962, there were only a handful of retirement communities in the area.

While a lot has changed over the years, one thing that hasn’t changed is Plum Landing’s commitment to providing the best senior independent living community in the area.

Plum Landing provides a safe and comfortable environment for seniors in Aurora, without the big commitment of a buy-in fee.

With the choice of 5 layouts, including private studios or one-bedroom apartments, each one is complete with a full kitchen, bathroom, and patio or balcony overlooking the Fox River. The monthly rent includes an allowance to the beautiful dining room, housekeeping, security, maintenance, scheduled transportation, most utilities, private parking and cable TV. Their

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Kane County Chronicle / KCChronicle.com • Saturday, July 26, 2014

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Senior Independent Living Community

Carriage Oaks Retirement Community is a beautiful Senior Independent Living Community for seniors aged 55 plus. Located in the beautiful Fox River Valley area with many local amenities and services at 1500 S. 14th St., St. Charles. Carriage Oaks offers a great deal for active seniors. Carriage Oaks is a non profit corporation. Democratically governed by an elected Board of Directors ,comprised of both residential members and representatives of it’s sponsors – the City of St. Charles and St. Charles Township as well as Carriage Oaks management company Essex Corporation from Omaha Nebraska.

Floor plans ranging in size from 645 sq ft to 1542 sq ft., under building parking, balconies or patios for every apartment as well as

storage areas. Each apartment home has it’s own washer and dryer so no need to leave to do laundry. Fire safety is paramount with sprinklers and smoke detector systems throughout as well as emergency response systems. Building is very energy efficient and each apartment has it’s own heating and air controls. Carriage Oaks offers an optional meal program, transportation services as well as a variety of social and wellness programs.

Other building amenities include a beauty/ barber shop, fitness room, library, billiards room, craft room, private dining room and guest room. If they choose to, residents at Carriage Oaks can be very involved with the day to day operation of the community – serving on the Board of Directors, running the

Coffee Shop, doing gardening in the 6 raised garden beds as well as serving on several committees. Carriage Oaks “maintenance free” lifestyle affords those seniors who still like to travel the perfect opportunity to do so without worrying about leaving their home behind. Carriage Oaks maintenance takes care of all of the appliances, heating and air, garbage collection as well as snow removal and lawn care. Carriage Oaks will be celebrating it’s 15th Anniversary in August and this year is undergoing a complete common area re-decorating project to be completed by year’s end. For information on pricing or to schedule a tour, please contact Cheryl King, Executive Director at 630-584-0029.

Welcome to Independent Senior Living...

See what our Community has to offer...

12 - 1 and 2 bedroom floor plans from 645 sq ft to 1542 sq ft. | Underground parking and storage Maintenance Free Living | Optional Meal Program | Transportation Services Variety of Social Programs | Much More!

Meet some residents! See our plans for our re-decorating project to be completed this year!

For more information call us at 630-584-0029 or visit us at www.carriageoaksofstcharles.com

Give your feet a little TLC so they’re ready for your fun summer adventures

Head off corns and calluses

(BPT) - With summer here, it’s time for boots and heavy shoes to go into the back of the closet as we make way for strappy sandals and flip-flops. From walking on the beach to patio parties to lounging by the pool and hiking on vacation, you want your feet to be comfortable and ready for every summer activity.

But after a long winter, your feet may not be looking or feeling their best. The colder months can be harsh on feet causing everything from corns and calluses to dry skin and brittle nails.

Feet can often be overlooked during our daily beauty routine, but they shouldn’t be. Healthy and comfortable feet are the foundation of a healthy body. And, when your feet look beautiful

Thick calluses and corns occur from shoe pressure or friction, often on top or between the toes. They can be uncomfortable and unsightly - certainly nothing you want showing when wearing sandals or going barefoot in the backyard. Dr. Scholl’s(R) One Step Corn Remover removes corns fast, with as few as two treatments. Application is easy and the clear bandage stays on all day, discreetly. With your corns removed, you can feel confident in opentoe shoes this summer.

Get a pedicure

A professional pedicure can take feet from winter rough to summer beautiful in no time at all. Men, this tip pertains to you as well. Pedicures trim the nails and remove the

roughened skin around the heels and toes, making your feet look and feel great to the touch. A polish of any color - even clear - will make your toenails neat and trim.

Lock in moisture

Rubbing your feet with lotion on a daily basis can help keep the skin soft and youngerlooking. It also provides an opportunity to inspect your feet for blisters, sores or bumps so you can take care of any issues before they get worse.

Great footwear

Now that you’ve taken care of your feet, it’s time to show them off. If you plan on purchasing a new pair of summer shoes, remember when breaking them in that rubbing and irritation can cause blisters. Dr. Scholl’s Blister Treatment helps heal and prevent blisters while staying comfortably in place. Choose comfortable footwear with support - especially if you plan to be active and on your feet. A fun pair of open-toe sandals offers great style, while flipflops are relaxed and easy. And, of course, if the opportunity presents itself to go barefoot, enjoy the sand or grass between your toes with confidence.

Kickoff summer on the right foot. With these simple steps your feet will look and feel great, and you can flaunt them in the sun all summer long. For more information visit: www.drscholls. com or www.facebook.com/drscholls.

FOOT AND ANKLE CARE NORTHWEST PODIATRY CENTER, LTD —HELPING YOUR FEET LAST A LIFETIME— Personalized care by Board Certified Surgeons of the Foot and Ankle DR. GREGORY C. BRYNICZKA*

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and feel comfortable, you’ll feel great too.

“You may not think about your feet that often, but they’re an essential part of almost everything you do,” says Jane Cappaert, head of devices, research and development for Dr. Scholl’s. “Whether walking, running, exercising, or just being out with friends this summer, having feet that are comfortable and well-cared for will make a huge difference. Knowing how to care for them is key to feeling good and looking good.”

There are several ways to care for your feet and help get them ready for their debut in the sun. If your tootsies are in need of a little TLC, here are some simple steps to get them healthy and looking their best in a flash:

SENIOR LIVING | Kane County Chronicle / KCChronicle.com

Kickoff summer on the right foot

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Kane County Chronicle / KCChronicle.com • Saturday, July 26, 2014

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Baby boomers: Three crucial times to review your Medicare options for retirement

(BPT) - Baby boomers facing the big decision of when to take Social Security retirement shouldn’t overlook the importance of signing up for Medicare at age 65.

Although Social Security offers an age range, generally 62 to 70, for starting retirement benefits you don’t have this type of flexibility with Medicare health insurance.

“Turning 65 is the trigger for your Medicare enrollment, so it’s important to study this decision as your birthday approaches,” says Paula Muschler, operations manager of the Allsup Medicare Advisor. This is a Medicare plan selection service offering personalized help that includes customized research, a tailor-made report and enrollment assistance. “You have three months before, the month of and three months after your birthday to enroll properly in Medicare when you turn 65.”

One important caution: You may decide to delay Medicare enrollment. “But if you make a mistake with this decision, you could end up with lifetime penalties that add to your Medicare costs,” Muschler says.

Anyone turning 65 should examine their Medicare choices carefully. Muschler outlines three situations that require close study.

1. You are reaching age 65, but you plan to continue working a few more years.

“You need to examine your Medicare enrollment because it interacts with your employer’s group health plan,” Muschler says.

“Depending on your employer benefits and the size of your employer, you may need to enroll in

Medicare Parts A and B.” Original Medicare is made up of Part A, which is hospital insurance, and Part B, which is medical insurance.

2. You are reaching age 65 and retiring from work at the same time.

If you combine retirement with turning 65, it’s important to coordinate the dates of actual retirement and your 65th birthday, Muschler says.

“You should take steps to ensure that you don’t have a gap in health care coverage, and you’ll need to choose Medicare plans. This is especially true if you leave work a few months before you turn 65.”

3. You retired from work before age 65 and have used other health insurance.

“You need to closely examine your health care options as you get ready to turn 65 and move into Medicare,” Muschler says. “There may be special considerations with ending COBRA, health insurance exchange or retiree coverage, depending on your situation. Once you determine that, yes, you do need to get ready for Medicare carefully review all available Medicare plans.”

Generally, people enrolling in Medicare choose from two paths. One option is to choose Original Medicare and a prescription drug plan, known as Medicare Part D. Many people also buy supplemental coverage, called Medigap, for added benefits.

A second option is to shop among the Medicare Advantage plans available in your area.

Depending on where you live, there is an average of 20 Medicare Advantage plans available.

In addition, there may be 35 available Part D

prescription drug plans from which to choose.

Other factors to consider: * Relocation. Are you planning to move after retiring? * Frequent travel. Do you plan to split your year between two states or travel the country? * Health. What needs do you have? Do you have any chronic health issues? * Cost. What’s your retirement income? Have you considered saving money with your Medicare plan? * Medication. It’s critical to examine how your Part D plan covers the drugs you take when you first enroll and during each annual enrollment period.

“We frequently get calls from Medicare beneficiaries who didn’t realize they could save so much money with their choices,” Muschler says.

“Sometimes they choose a plan because a friend recommended it, but they end up paying much more than they need to.”

After first-time enrollment, participants can use Medicare annual open enrollment from Oct. 15 to Dec. 7 each year to make changes.

“Your Medicare plan can be one of the best things about your retirement if you find the plan that truly matches your needs, lifestyle and budget,” Muschler says.

Experienced Allsup Medicare specialists can help you and your family members review Medicare plans and decisions. For a Medicare evaluation, call an Allsup Medicare Advisor specialist at (866) 521-7655 or go to Medicare.

Allsup.com.

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WHAT CAUSES BLACK STREAKS ON ROOFS? Roof streaks are caused by

Gloeocapsa Magma, a cyanobacteria that is closely related to bacteria, but generally is much larger than bacteria and photosynthesize like algae. This algae thrives through photosynthesis and the limestone filler found in the composition of roof shingles, reducing shingle

life expectancy.

cleaned and maintained.

POWER WASHING VS. SOFT WASHING: High pressure power washing

HEALTH ADVANTAGES: Roof cleaning removes organisms on a roof that release contaminants into the air which enter buildings through attics, air conditioning vents, or open windows. These contaminants have been linked to allergies, asthma attacks, and other respiratory health issues.

removes granules that make up shingles and deteriorate them. Low pressure soft washing uses biodegradable chemicals that do not damage shingles or the environment.

PRESERVE ROOF LONGEVITY: Regularly cleaning a roof every five to seven years is recommended in many roof warranties, which will help shingles last the 25+ years they were meant to.

SAVE ON ENERGY BILLS: Algae covered shingles absorb heat, causing air conditioners to work harder, raising environmental bills. A clean roof means lower energy cost.

HOMEOWNERS INSURANCE: Algae and mold can damage a roof to the point of needing repair or replacement. Some insurance companies are canceling or refusing to renew homeowner policies unless the roof is properly

ADD CURB APPEAL: A clean exterior will not only save money, but adds curb appeal and value to an investment. Removing unsightly stains, black streaks, and algae growth presents a healthy home or business.

Fox Valley ProWash is proud to offer roof and exterior cleaning to beautify, preserve, and protect homes and businesses in the Fox Valley Area. For more information on softwashing and exterior cleaning or to see other services offered, please visit www.FoxValleyProWash. com or call 630.995.WASH (9274). Protect your property!

SAVE YOUR ROOF! Fox Valley ProWash Will Clean Your Roof And MORE! Fox Valley ProWash can safely clean and restore almost any area of your property. This is a risk free and economical way to maintain and will add value to your home.

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• Saturday, July 26, 2014

Ever notice black stains, streaks, or even algae growing on a roof? Fox Valley ProWash, a business located out of Saint Charles, IL, did, and now they offer safe, eco friendly, softwashing technique recommended by the American Roofing Manufacturer’s Association (ARMA), to combat organisms growing on roofs, gutters, and siding. Softwashing a roof is a relatively new concept that is a less expensive solution to roof and siding replacement. The big questions are, what IS on the roof, is it damaging consumer investments, how does one get rid of it, and are there benefits to a clean roof?

9 SENIOR LIVING | Kane County Chronicle / KCChronicle.com

What’s Growing on your Roof?

Kane County Chronicle / KCChronicle.com • Saturday, July 26, 2014

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Long Term Care Insurance Products

Carol Murin, LTCP, CLTC, CSA Office: 630.482.3150 Fax: 630.482.3150 Cell: 630.482.3149 www.ltc-xpert.com cmurin@dls.net

Carol Murin, has been a long term care planning specialist for 21 years, and is known for her ability to make what are typically viewed as complex insurance products simple to understand. Her professionalism and dedication to understanding today’s long term care issues is reflected in her earning the Long Term Care Professional (LTCP), Certification in Long Term Care (CLTC),

Carol Murin

and Certified Senior Advisor (CSA) designations.

She explains that there are now three stages of retirement: Go-Go, Slow-Go and No-Go, and how today’s advances in medicine have resulted in the consequences of living a long life--both a blessing and a curse. Carol’s approach is helping clients to recognize how this has changed the way they need to plan for retirement.

When faced with a caregiving event, most people deal with it in “crisis mode.” They are unprepared for the important decisions that they will have to make. Families are shocked when they learn of the cost of long term care when provided in facilities. In addition to the expense of formal caregiving provided in assisted living facilities or nursing homes, they are also surprised by the cost of home care services, and are equally surprised when they learn of Medicare’s limitations in providing those services along with the stringent requirements for Medicaid.

Another issue that is often overlooked is the additional stress that is created when families are faced with caring for a loved one. Is there someone in the family who can be a caregiver? Is there enough family living locally to support

the caregiver? How will they find a home care provider that can satisfy the needs of the family and their loved one? Where will they go for advice on alternate caregiving options?

Most people still do not understand that today’s long term care insurance products are designed to help people stay in their own homes if that is their preferred option. In addition, they do not know that long term care insurance can be customized to meet their needs.

Many are confused by the industry “lingo”—traditional products, hybrid products, life insurance products with “chronic illness” riders and what, if any, might be the best solution for them.

Guiding clients through the maze of today’s LTC insurance products, features and benefits is where her experience simplifies the decision-making process for them. “Helping clients address these important issues, and working with them to design appropriate, affordable long term care solutions is what makes her job fun,” says Murin.

Everyone’s needs are different, but planning is essential. “Living a long life is a certainty, planning for it is now a necessity.”

Carol Murin, LTCP, CLTC, CSA Office: 630.482.3150 • Fax: 630.482.3150 • Cell: 630.482.3149 www.ltc-xprt.com • cmurin@dls.net

- including one that could save your life (BPT) - Were you born from 1945 through 1965? If so, you’re part of the unique generation known as the baby boomers. Here are interesting facts about baby boomers in America. One of them could save your life.

1. Baby boomers are one of the largest generations in U.S. history.

The baby boomer generation, made up of a staggering 77 million Americans, is rivaled in size only by millennials - many of whom are the children of boomers. The millennial generation, born from 1980 through 1999, similarly includes approximately 77 million Americans.

2. Baby boomers support their children in and out of the nest.

More than a third of baby boomers have children younger than 18 living in their homes, and research from the National Endowment for Financial Education shows that 60 percent of boomers also provide some form of financial support to their adult children.

3. Baby boomers are living longer than previous generations.

Compared to previous generations, baby boomers are living longer and they are also more likely to remain independent and stay in their own homes as they age.

4. Many baby boomers are working longer.

Boomers plan to continue working once they are eligible for retirement, despite having the option to stop. In fact, only 11 percent of baby boomers plan to stop working entirely once they reach retirement age, according to a survey by AARP.

5. Hepatitis C is a silent epidemic among baby boomers.

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• Saturday, July 26, 2014

People born from 1945 through 1965 are five times more likely to be infected with Hepatitis C and account for more than three out of every four Americans living with the disease. That’s why the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend that everyone born from 1945

to 1965 get a blood test for Hepatitis C. Many baby boomers living with Hepatitis C don’t know how or when they got infected.

Hepatitis C is a virus that attacks the liver and, if left untreated, can lead to serious liver disease.

In fact, Hepatitis C is the leading cause of liver cancer.

The CDC estimates that testing everyone born from 1945 to 1965 could identify 800,000 people unaware of their Hepatitis C infection, and over time, could save 120,000 lives. Testing baby boomers for Hepatitis C is important, because people with Hepatitis C often have no symptoms and can live with the disease for decades without feeling sick. All the while, liver damage may be silently occurring.

Fortunately, new treatments are available that can cure Hepatitis C. If you were born from 1945 through 1965, talk to your doctor about getting tested for Hepatitis C. It could save your life.

To learn more about Hepatitis C, visit www. cdc.gov/knowmorehepatitis.

11 SENIOR LIVING | Kane County Chronicle / KCChronicle.com

5 Surprising Facts About Baby Boomers

Kane County Chronicle / KCChronicle.com • Saturday, July 26, 2014

| SENIOR LIVING

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