2024 Spring Vibrant Senior Options Resource Guide Magazine

V i b r a n t

SENIOR OPTIONS THE RESOURCE GUIDE MAGAZINE

Spring-Summer 2024

Table of Contents Page 5

Flight, Space, and The Apollo 8 Moonshot Heritage Flight Museum Page 6

Photo courtesy: Karen Hicks, 2023

Whatcom, Skagit, Island, San Juan, N. Snohomish

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Senior Housing | Senior Service Professionals

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Active Lifestyles | Health & Wellness | Home Support

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Remain independent in your home with:

Serving All Seniors Be sure to ask us about our special programs to support low-income Veterans!

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Letter from the Publisher

emember the song, “Fly Me to the Moon?” Recently, Christine and I had a fun and meaningful interview with Lieutenant Colonel Greg Anders, son of Major General William “Bill” Anders, an astronaut on that first amazing Apollo 8 Mission to orbit the Moon in 1968. Our Front Cover picture is Bill Anders with two of his sons, Greg Anders and Alan Anders. Believe it or not, the picture was taken on Bill’s 90th Birthday after returning with two of his sons from a Three-Ship Flight Formation. This was near their own flight and space museum in Skagit County – The Heritage Flight Museum.

Want to be a part of flight and space history?

Consider volunteer opportunities at the Heritage Flight Museum. Read the rest of the story on Page 6.

See Table of Contents on Page 5 for a list of articles in this Edition that aim to inspire and educate on a variety of issues. You’ll read local author contributions on physical fitness, brain health, hearing, speech, diabetic footwear, robotic spine surgery advances, palliative care, and memory care tips. You’ll also gain some wisdom about remodeling to age in place, options to transfer a home to your heirs, and a humorous article about simpler days gone by.

Mark your Calendar for two summer events: Whatcom Senior Day in the Park, Hovander Park in Ferndale, Wed. August 7, 10 am to 2 pm. See Ad on Page 60 Skagit Senior Day in the Park, Maiben Park, Burlington, Thurs. August 15, 10 am - 1:30 pm Having a fascination with the idea of space adventures to the Moon and beyond have been around for Millennia and by the looks of it, I 2

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"Earthrise" photo by Major General Bill Anders, Christmas Eve, 1968 Image Credit: NASA wouldn’t be surprised if we land on the Moon again soon. NASA is projecting a manned lunar flyby in 2025 and a manned lunar landing around 2026. Stay tuned. Once again, we just may hear an echo from 1969, “That’s one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.”

Check out NASA’s website for up-to-date information on why and how they are planning on returning to the Moon in the years ahead: www.nasa.gov/specials/artemis NASA answers the Why: “We’re going back to the Moon for scientific discovery, economic benefits, and inspiration for a new generation of explorers: the Artemis Generation. While maintaining American leadership in exploration, we will build a global alliance and explore deep space for the benefit of all.”

I conclude in thinking about the timeless song, Moon River. In some ways, the Apollo 8 Astronauts remind me of adventurous Huckleberry Friends and their wider-than-a-mile journey. Frank Borman, Jim Lovell, and Bill Anders have certainly crossed a river of space in style.

Kirk Blankenship, Publisher Spring-Summer 2024

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www.LSaarLaw.com | Email: Lisa@LSaarLaw.com V i b r a n t PTION NS SENIOR OPTIO THE RESOURCE GUIDE MAGAZINE

Spring-Summer, 2024

Table of Contents Page 3

Flight, Space and The Apollo 8 Moonshot!

Heritage Flight Museum Page 6

Photo courtesy: Karen Hicks, 2023

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Senior Housing | Senior Service Professionals

Whatcom, Skagit, Island, San Juan, N. Snohomish

FRE E

V Mission: Help seniors, families, and care professionals navigate the many options available for vibrant senior living and care.

V Publication: Semi-annual, distributed to 400 locations in the region.

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Active Lifestyles | Health & Wellness | Home Support

V Vision: Provide a Resource Guide to inform and Magazine articles to inspire!

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For Advertising Opportunities, call 360-856-9023 or email kirk@vibrantsenioroptions.com

Kirk Blankenship Publisher - Business Director/Sales

Christine Blankenship Publisher - Business Director/Designer

Published by Vibrant Senior Options, LLC. © 2014-2024 All Rights Reserved The Publishers of Vibrant Senior Options magazine and website make no claims as to the safety, availability or reliability of advertiser information, nor do we necessarily endorse the articles. The Publishers also reserve the right to edit content. Vibrant Senior Options magazine and website remain as 3rd party non-interested entities with their only responsibility being the maintainers of information supplied herein. It is the responsibility of readers to complete their own research and review of services offered. Any inaccuracies or typographical errors are unintentional.

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Spring-Summer 2024

Table of Contents The Senior Café - Menu of Articles

Letter from the Publisher Kirk Blankenship

Flight, Space and The Apollo 8 Moonshot Christine Blankenship

Fitness Support at the Y Ben Leschensky

Food: The Most Powerful Medicine Nicole Vander Meulen

Diabetes and the Health of Your Feet | Kevin Clarke

Why Better Hearing Means Better Living Larry Wonnacott

Speech Therapy - Not Just for Speech | Libby Lewis

Your Home to Your Heirs Carmen Andrew

Brain Health is Everybody's Business| Kelsey Lovik

Remodeling for Aging in Place Robert Burns

Everything Used to be Simpler Linda Jinkens

Social Connections and Dementia Teepa Snow

2 6 8 10 12 14 20 28 30 38 42 55

Hospital Health Articles

Spine Surgery Advances with New Robot - Skagit Regional Health

Compassionate Care | WhidbeyHealth

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Active Lifestyles

Museum Tour: Flight, Apollo 8 Mission

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Physical Fitness & Health

8

Senior Activity Centers

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Health & Wellness - Retail

Organic Food: Grocery & Café Pharmacy & Gift Shop

11 11

Health & Wellness - Providers

Footwear - Diabetic & Therapeutic Hearing/Audiology Support Group Hospice & Palliative Care VibrantSeniorOptions.com

13 15 22

Hospitals Speech/Language Pathology

17 21

Senior Service Professionals

Aging & Disability Resources Elder Law Directory & Glossary Geriatric Care/Eldercare Consultant Medicare: Supplemental Insurance Real Estate - SRES Transportation (Non-Emergency)

24 24 24 26 29 23

Home Support Agencies

Home Support Glossary Home Care Home Health Home Modification - Safety & Access Home Support - Eldercare Consult.

Volunteer & Support - Membership

32 34 38 41 37 37

Housing - Independent

Housing - Independent Glossary Affordable Housing Independent/Retirement Living

44 44 47

Housing & Care

Housing & Care Glossary Advisory & Referral Services for Housing & Care Adult Family Home Assisted Living - Whatcom Assisted Living - Skagit & Island Assisted Living - North Snohomish Assisted Living: Medically Complex Memory Care Communities Skilled Nursing & Short Term Rehabilitation Continuing Care Communities Name Directories: Housing & Care

43 43 48 48 50 51 56 52 56 50 58

Memory Care & Support

Adult Day Programs Memory Care Education & Support Information & Assistance

54 55 60 5

Active Lifestyles

Flight, Space, and The Apollo 8 Moonshot Heritage Flight Museum presents Apollo 8 and Saving 1968

By Christine Blankenship, Publisher

F

light Museums are about flying and the history of airplanes. However, our own local Heritage Flight Museum in Burlington, Washington, is all that and more. It is “A Brush with History.” With a backdrop of family, political, and cultural events of the 1960’s, this Museum brings you into the narratives of flight, space, and the Apollo 8 Lunar Mission.

The Year Nineteen Sixty-Eight The Heritage Flight Museum displays a thread of history, depicting the 1960’s, specifically 1968. This was a year of civil unrest, violence, rebellion, and political discord. The continuing Vietnam War ramped up, as did opposition and protests throughout many US cities, and even around the world. Nineteen sixty-eight also saw two assassinations: That of Reverend Martin Luther King Jr., and Senator Robert Francis Kennedy. These events triggered more waves of protests, including the struggle against racial discrimination. In the backdrop was a lurking sense of the long Cold War and a Space Race with Russia. Seemingly, Russia had constant advantage, including Sputnik, the first Satellite mission to orbit the earth. Could the heart of America possibly be more troubled?

There is a Santa Claus!

Breaking through such a dark year, on December 24, 1968, Jim Lovell famously announced, “Houston, please be informed there is a Santa Claus!" The Apollo 8 crew of Frank Borman, Jim Lovell, and Bill Anders became the first humans to leave Earth and journey to the 6

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December 27, 1968, after returning to Earth: Frank Borman, Bill Anders, and Jim Lovell Image Credit: NASA

Moon! Apollo 8 reached the Moon and entered Lunar Orbit for ten orbits around the Moon.

The men of Apollo 8 had traveled farther and faster than anyone in history. Borman, Lovell, and Anders were the first to see the far side of the Moon and to see the great blue and white earth from a vast, cosmic distance. For the record, Bill Anders took the famous picture of the “Earthrise” which became the most known photograph of the 20th Century.

The Astronauts’ December 24, 1968 message to Earth included a passage from Genesis: “In the beginning, God created the heaven and the Earth,” as Anders read. Borman ended the passage, adding “and from the crew of Apollo 8, we close with good night, good luck, Merry Christmas, and God bless all of you - all of you on the good Earth.” Amongst the many telegrams of congratulations, NASA relayed one that says it all: “Apollo 8, you saved 1968!”

Heritage Flight Museum Astronaut Bill Anders and his wife Valerie founded the Heritage Flight Museum in 1996. Family stories, the history of 1968, and the Apollo 8 Mission all contributed to this museum’s success.

Spring-Summer 2024

Active Lifestyles

Name

Ad Page

County

City

Phone

Burlington

360-424-5151

Museum Tours - Flight, Apollo 8 Mission Heritage Flight Museum

Ad Below

Skagit

Bill and Valerie’s sons, Greg Anders and Alan Anders, took active management roles in 2003, joining their parents to later expand and preserve the museum’s goal of honoring veterans and keeping history alive in a variety of ways. As you walk through the building, you will return to the cultural nuances of 1968. A wide mural gallery displays interesting reminders of the Apollo 8 Mission, such as Bill Anders uniform. On seeing technology, events, and people, we were reminded of how different things were. All these are a part of the story of family, work, and events of the time. On a tour with Greg Anders, we listened to stories from the perspective of Apollo 8 Astronaut families.

The Heritage Flight Museum also displays VibrantSeniorOptions.com

Valerie’s personal, monthly calendar of family events leading up to the December 21 launch.

Speaking of launch, you will also watch a video of Walter Cronkite’s rendition of this event. The Heritage Flight Museum presents this moment in history well, from the Earth to the Moon!

Fly Day and the Airplane Hangar Apollo 8 is not the only highlight of The Heritage Flight Museum. With a rewarding walk through their vintage hangar, your tour guide will bring back the stories behind those planes.

Be sure to join the museum on a “Fly Day” for an air show and tour of this vintage airplane collection.

(Continued on Page 9)

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Active Lifestyles

Name

Ad Page County

City

Phone

Mount Vernon

360-336-9622

Physical Fitness & Health Skagit Valley Family YMCA

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Skagit

Fitness Support at the Y Ben Leschensky, Communications Manager Skagit Valley Family YMCA

T

he physical, mental, and emotional challenges faced as you get older don’t have to be faced alone or without support.

In fact, research by the American Society on Aging shows that older adults have a higher quality of life and sense of well-being when in a community and have systems of mutual support.

Enter the Skagit Valley Family YMCA. The Skagit Y welcomes people from all walks of life at every stage of life, including seniors, and its programs empower people to be healthier in mind, body, and spirit.

Read on for a glimpse at how the Y can impact your life.

Fitness: Functional and Fun One of the best ways to impact your longevity and enjoyment of life is to live an active lifestyle.

At the Y, seniors have access to a wide range of fitness equipment, a multi-purpose aquatics center, and can participate in fitness classes tailored to aging adults. Flexibility, range of motion, balance, and coordination are just a few aspects of your health that you can improve at the Y. Need individualized fitness support? Work with a Personal Trainer, who can help you set and meet your health and wellness goals.

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A Community of Support When you join the Y, you don’t just join a gym–you join the Y family. Beyond the community and camaraderie found in fitness classes, seniors can meet and engage with peers through Lunch and Learn educational presentations, field trips, or at weekly coffee hour. The Y also has a variety of volunteer opportunities where you can meet and help those in the community.

Fitness Support: Accessible for All Did you know your insurance may cover the cost of membership? That’s right, you may not have to pay the Y to get a membership and have access to all the benefits the Y has to offer. In 2024, the Y accepts Silver & Fit, Active & Fit, Renew Active, and FitOn Health programs. The Y also has a financial assistance program that can help reduce monthly membership fees.

The Y would love to welcome you into our community. We invite you to stop by our facility for a tour and to try the Y out for a free week.

Visit us at 1901 Hoag Road, Mount Vernon.

Ben Leschensky, Communications Manager Skagit Valley Family YMCA 1901 Hoag Rd., Mount Vernon, WA Phone: 360-336-9622 (Ext. 7021) www.skagitymca.org

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Active Lifestyles

The Heritage Flight Museum (Continued from Page 7) See their website: www.heritageflight.org/hfmevents/fly-days for Fly Days and other tour dates. Visit the Heritage Flight Museum and be ready to enjoy some time well-spent!

Take note of the front cover of this current edition, as this is a picture of Bill Anders of Apollo 8, at center, with his two sons, Greg Anders on left and Alan Anders on right. This

cover image was taken right after the three flew in a Three-Ship Flight Formation on Bill Anders’ 90th birthday!”

By Kirk and Christine Blankenship, Publishers, with information and stories told by Lieutenant Colonel Greg Anders (who served 23 years in the US Air Force), son of Major General William “Bill” Anders, Astronaut and the photographer of Apollo 8, December 23, 1968.

In addition to a personal tour of the Heritage Flight Museum, the information in this article comes from common history and from Robert Kurson’s book, Rocket Men. Volunteer Job Opportunities

Three-Ship Flight Formation: Bill Anders, Alan Anders, and Greg Anders - Photo by Deane Crilley VibrantSeniorOptions.com

Help carry on the heritage of flight and space exploration. Call: 360-424-5151 www.heritageflight.org V

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Health & Wellness Retail

Food: The Most Powerful Medicine Nicole Vander Meullen Marketing and Outreach Director Skagit Valley Food Co-op

S

, M, T, W, Th, F, Sa. If you’re like many others, those are familiar letters marking the days of our lives atop a plastic container on your countertop, full of your daily dose of XYZ – a very necessary reminder of what day it actually is, and to take your vitamins, supplements, and other medicines accordingly.

On S and W, I take my vitamin D. I appreciate the reminder, and the support those little capsules give me, especially during the winter months. There is, no doubt, health and healing in these medicines, but let’s not forget the most powerful medicine of all: Food.

Food is our source of life, and there’s certainly truth to the saying “you are what you eat:” an unhealthy diet can lead to health issues, and a healthy one can help prevent issues and maintain a good balance of one’s health. Of course, there are outliers, exceptions, and genetic predispositions, and the definition of “healthy” varies from one person to another, but, generally speaking, eating a healthy diet can have numerous health benefits.

This idea is simple. However, there are thousands of people who have found themselves reliant on prescriptions and other medicines, who haven’t taken a closer look at what else they’re consuming. And sometimes, a change of diet is just what the doctor (should have) ordered.

There are vitamins, minerals, nutrients, and other surprising health benefits in some of the foods you already know and love! The mighty mushroom is one of few natural sources of vitamin D, so while I still supplement, I also 10

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add mushrooms to many of my dishes. Mushrooms have also been gaining popularity in recent times for their immune-boosting, mindclearing, gut-soothing adaptogens. Mushroom coffee may sound weird, but it’s a delicious way to take advantage of these functional ingredients, especially if caffeine isn’t on the menu.

The appeal of the bright banana? It’s potassium-packed and great for an instant energy boost to start the day or before a neighborhood stroll. A shot of apple cider vinegar before or after consuming sugar can help maintain glucose levels. Yogurt, kefir, and sour cream offer your gut thousands of live active cultures called probiotics, which can help with digestion and other gastro issues. Bone broths, which can be bought or made on your own stove with leftover chicken and beef bones, are a natural source of collagen, and make for a great alternative to water when cooking things like rice, and even pancakes! Celery and cucumber are watery veggies that can help increase your body’s hydration. You don’t want to drink those 8 glasses a day for nothin’!

I think my favorite food superpower starts with our fuzzy friendly pollinator, the honey bee. Not only is local wildflower honey delicious, a drizzle here and there can alleviate allergies when the pollen count gets high. Who knew?

Food can be many things: friend or foe, healthy or harmful, delicious or disgusting, but what we do know, is that it can also be medicine, and high-quality nourishment is essential for well-being.

Nicole VanderMullen 360-336-9777, www.skagitfoodcoop.com

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Spring-Summer 2024

Health & Wellness Retail

Name

Ad Page

County

City

Phone

Skagit

Mount Vernon

360-336-9777

Organic Food: Grocery & Café Skagit Valley Food Co-op

Ad Below

Eat Organic

For a Healthy Future 360.336.9777 • skagitfoodcoop.com Open to All • Downtown Mount Vernon

Name

Ad Page

County

City

Phone

Sedro-Woolley

360-503-1676

Pharmacy & Gift Shop Hwy 20 Hometown Pharmacy

Your Health Care is our Priority.

Experience the Hometown Difference.

VibrantSeniorOptions.com

Ad Below Skagit

Prescriptions OTC Medications Mobility Wellness Aids Home Health Gift Shop

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Health & Wellness Providers

Diabetes and the Health of Your Feet Kevin Clarke, President Priority Footwear

D

id you know that according to the American Diabetes Association, 29.2% of Americans age 65 and over have diabetes?

Additionally, up to 10% of diabetics develop foot ulcers and up to 25% of foot ulcers lead to limb amputation within 6 to 18 months of initial evaluation. These numbers only increased during the COVID-19 pandemic due to diabetics deferring their health care, with many primary care physicians and podiatrists reporting their case load of toe amputations increasing by as much as 50% in 2020 and 2021. A study conducted at the US Department of Veterans Affairs in Seattle a few years ago found that 30 percent of amputations started as improperly fitting footwear, which can lead to ulcers and amputations.

The Therapeutic Shoe Bill We don’t have a cure for diabetes. But fortunately, we know how to properly take care of diabetic feet which are subject to complications caused by diabetes. In 1993,

the US Congress passed the Therapeutic Shoe Bill, mandating Medicare to pay for therapeutic shoes and inserts for qualifying diabetics with foot conditions such as poor circulation, neuropathy, and callousing. Most private insurers have followed Medicare’s lead and cover therapeutic shoes and inserts with little or no coinsurance.

Even with this benefit, fewer than 20 percent of eligible beneficiaries use the Medicare benefit provided in the Therapeutic Shoe Bill to receive therapeutic shoes and inserts. There are two primary reasons for this: 1) lack of patient and doctor awareness, and 2) lack of providers with the expertise to properly fit the shoes, manufacture the accommodative inserts, and carry the patient through the necessary doctor and insurance paperwork.

Saving Diabetic Toes and Feet Raising awareness of this benefit is the purpose of articles such as this.

There are a number of providers who are able to fit and provide therapeutic footwear, including most podiatrists and companies like Priority Footwear, the only company in the Pacific Northwest that is exclusively dedicated to the mission of saving diabetic toes and feet.

If you are diabetic and think you may qualify for therapeutic footwear, talk to your doctor or call a company like Priority Footwear.

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Spring-Summer 2024

Health & Wellness Providers

Name

Ad Page

Area of Service

Phone

Footwear - Diabetic & Therapeutic Footwear Priority Footwear

Ad Below

Whatcom, Skagit, Island, Snohomish 206-957-7772

For qualifying diabetics, Medicare and most insurance plans cover one pair of therapeutic shoes and three sets of custom-fitted inserts annually at little or no cost to you!

Priority Footwear’s certified specialists work with you to help prevent diabetes-related foot complications, including amputation. We fit you and work with your doctor and insurance provider to handle the paperwork.

Contact us for more information or to set up an appointment.

Call: 206-957-7772 | www.priorityfootwear.com Diabetes and the Health of Your Feet Bring a copy of this article to your appointment and recognize that the health of your feet begins with you. Lastly, follow some simple foot care tips: • Wash and check your feet every day • Rub a thin coat of lotion over the tops and bottoms of your feet, but not between your toes • Keep the blood flowing to your feet by being active every day

• Protect your feet from hot and cold • Wear comfortable shoes that fit well and protect your feet • Check in with your primary care physician regularly as part of taking care of your diabetes Kevin Clarke, President Priority Footwear 503-524-9656

• Trim your toenails each week or when needed VibrantSeniorOptions.com

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Health & Wellness Providers

Why Better Hearing Means Better Living Larry Wonnacott, President, Hearing Loss Association of America - Whatcom County Chapter

U

nfortunately, hearing loss is one common trait shared by many seniors.

By some estimates, more than 50% of the over 60-year-old population has some level of age-related hearing loss. This could be due to changes in the nerve structure of the ear or long term exposure to loud noises. Also, drug side effects or other medical conditions can also bring about changes in hearing. Regardless of the cause, the results of hearing loss are often the same. These results include social isolation and increased stress. Perhaps surprisingly to you, hearing loss can also result in an increased risk of cognitive decline. The good news is that hearing loss can be treated, and the cost of doing so is decreasing. As a New York Times headline recently proclaimed, “Hearing Aids Are More Affordable, and Perhaps More Needed, than Ever.” (Span, Paula; 2023, October 30). www.nytimes.com/health/hearingaids-dementia Improved Affordability for Better Hearing The reason for the improved affordability of Hearing Aids is the passage of legislation permitting the sale of Over the Counter (“OTC”) Hearing Aids. These products are designed for those with “mild to moderate” hearing loss and are available in many retail locations. Because age related hearing loss can occur gradually over time, you may not realize how significant your loss is. The only way to know if OTC aids might be appropriate for you is to have your hearing tested. Testing can be conducted by an Audiologist or Hearing Aid Specialist. Medicare will generally cover this test if you have a referral from your doctor (and 14

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sometimes without). That is the first step to better living with hearing loss.

You probably have your eyes tested regularly – why not your ears?

The Importance of Treatment Why is treating hearing loss so important?

There are many reasons, but recent research indicates that the most critical may be the prevention of cognitive decline (aka, dementia), a condition none of us wants to experience.

The Lancet Commission on Dementia reports that untreated hearing loss is the single largest “potentially modifiable” risk factor accounting for dementia. Perhaps another surprise to you, hearing loss ranks higher than traumatic brain injury as a cause for dementia! “Modifying” hearing loss is simple – consistently wear a hearing aid (they do not work in a dresser drawer).

Better Hearing and Better Living Many of us have taken this step to wear hearing aids with good results. Because we can better comprehend what is being said, we are more likely to attend and enjoy social events.

More importantly, our loved ones are less frustrated and less likely to feel ignored when they don’t have to frequently repeat themselves.

If you won’t address the problem for yourself, do it for those that love you. Hearing aids don’t make you look old. However, not hearing well does that job for you when it causes you to miss participating in conversations and social outings such as coffee with friends or attending Spring-Summer 2024

Health & Wellness Providers

Name

Ad Page

County

City

Phone

Hearing/Audiology - Support Groups, Education, Advocacy Hearing Loss Association of America

Ad Below

Whatcom

Bellingham

360-656-6457

Better Hearing = Better Living 9 Education 9 Advocacy 9 Information 9 Support 9 Monthly Meetings

website: www.hearing loss-whatcom.org

a symphony. Put simply, better hearing equals better living.

Hearing Loss Management and Support The Hearing Loss Association of America – Whatcom County Chapter is celebrating our 20th year of helping our neighbors that are living with hearing loss. We provide education and information, advocating for hearing access and support for each other as we deal with the impacts of hearing loss. We do not sell or endorse any products. Rather, we are a group that has learned how to manage our hearing loss, and we share our successes (and failures) with each other. We often have expert speakers share the latest research results. For example, these speakers discuss new approaches to managing hearing loss, tinnitus, and balance issues.

VibrantSeniorOptions.com

360-656-6457

We invite you to join us on the 3rd Saturday of every month for our free meetings. Find information at the website below.

Larry Wonnacott, President Hearing Loss Association of America Whatcom County Chapter 360-656-6457 www.hearingloss-whatcom.org

In-Person Meetings 3rd Saturday/monthly Christ the Servant Lutheran Church 2600 Lakeway Dr., Bellingham ​ Social Time: 9:30 AM Meeting: 10 – 11:30 AM V

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Health & Wellness Providers

Spine Surgery Advances With New Robot Surgeons at Skagit Regional Health started using a new robot in August to assist with precise back procedures.

The Globus ExcelsiusGPS® Robotic Navigation system uses diagnostic images of the patient, that are displayed on a computer screen, to help guide surgeons in providing precise, minimally invasive procedures. The images help the surgeon create a surgical plan based on the patient’s individual anatomy and determine the size and placement of screws.

“The robot is a precision guide for hardware placement,” said spine surgeon David Mourning, MD. “It does not do nerve decompressions, such as discectomies or laminectomies, as those still require the steady hand of a surgeon combined with tactile feedback to safely operate.”

For patients, the main benefit is safety and efficiency, said spine surgeon Dylan Morris, DO. “The robot will allow us to perform complex spine surgeries in a safe and efficient manner,” Dr. Morris said. “This will allow us to continue to give the best care possible for our patients at Skagit Regional Health.”

Robotic Precision Dr. Mourning also noted the efficiency of hardware placement with the precision of the robot.

“Using the robot can greatly decrease time in the operating room by 10 to 20 percent as the screws go in like clockwork, eliminating delays due to visualization, difficult anatomy and other issues,” Dr. Mourning said. “Less time under anesthesia and shorter time in the OR is better for the patient.”

The robotics and navigation reduce the length of procedures, improves accuracy and dramatically lowers the level of radiation exposure from fluoroscopy, which is good for the patient and the OR team. In addition, the smaller incisions mean less tissue damage and a shorter hospital stay.

Reliability and Efficacy of Procedures “We won’t do any new surgeries, we’ll just do the procedures safer and faster,” Dr. Mourning said. “I’ve been looking forward to getting this for several years now. I’ve used several other systems for guidance (image guidance, artificial reality headsets) but nothing compares to the reliability and efficacy of this system.”

This is not the first surgical robot in use in the operating rooms at Skagit Valley Hospital.

Skagit Regional Health’s general, colorectal and thoracic surgeons, OB/GYNs and urologists use the da Vinci® Xi™ Surgical System, brought to the hospital’s operating rooms in 2018.

Pictured above: Skagit Regional Health spine surgeons Dylan Morris, DO (left) and David Mourning, MD (right) will use the Globus ExcelsiusGPS® Robotic Navigation system for hardware placement procedures using diagnostic images.

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To learn more about spine surgery, please contact one of our team members at Skagit Regional Health at 360-814-2663. We can help you make an appointment with a spine specialist.

Also see: www.skagitregionalhealth.org/ programs-services/spine-surgery V Spring-Summer 2024

Health & Wellness Providers

NOW OPEN

Mount Vernon Surgery Center

LEARN MORE

211 S. 13th Street, Mount Vernon

Follow the QR code for information about this facility.

Surgical Care Designed for You • Outpatient Surgery • Endoscopy • Ear, Nose and Throat • Foot and Ankle

• Gastroenterology • Interventional Pain Medicine • Orthopedics and Sports Medicine • Spine Surgery

SkagitRegionalHealth.org

County

Name

Address

City

Phone

Whatcom

PeaceHealth St. Joseph

2901 Squalicum Parkway

Bellingham

360-734-5400

Skagit

Island Health

1211 24th Street

Anacortes

360-299-1300

Skagit

Skagit Valley Hospital Ad Above

300 Hospital Parkway

Mount Vernon

360-424-4111

Skagit

PeaceHealth at United

2000 Hospital Drive

SedroWoolley

360-856-6021

Island

WhidbeyHealth Medical Center Ad - Page 19

101 N Main Street

Coupeville

360-678-5151

San Juan

PeaceHealth Peace Island

1117 Spring Street

Friday Harbor

360-378-2141

Snohomish

Cascade Valley Hospital Ad Above

330 S. Stillaguamish Ave

Arlington

360-435-2133

Snohomish

Swedish Edmonds

21601 76th Avenue W Edmonds

425-640-4000

Snohomish

Providence Regional Medical Center

1700 13th Street

Everett

425-261-2000

Snohomish

EvergreenHealth

14701 179th Ave S.E. Monroe

360-794-7497

Hospitals

VibrantSeniorOptions.com

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17

Health & Wellness Providers

Compassionate Care

A

s friends, family or loved ones age, unexpected events can derail even the healthiest person. Often friends and family need to step in and support when they least expect it.

When thinking about your life’s health journey, it is important to learn what Palliative Care and Hospice are. Let’s take a closer look at the Palliative Care and Hospice services available at WhidbeyHealth.

What is Palliative Care? Palliative care is an interdisciplinary medical approach to helping people living with any serious or debilitating illness like cancer, congestive heart failure, lung disease, kidney failure, liver disorder, Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.

Palliative care focuses on providing relief from the symptoms and stress with information, support, and resources to improve the overall quality of life for the patient and their family.

Facing a long-term serious illness is not only challenging for the patient but can be very stressful for their family and caregivers. Most people don’t understand the wide range of services available with Palliative care.

"Patients with terminal illness who engage our Palliative Care team, generally have an easier journey with better outcomes, especially when transitioning to Hospice." Carla Jolley, ARNP What is Hospice? Hospice teams provide family-centered, holistic and compassionate end-of-life care for people with terminal illness.

They help manage pain and symptoms, provide medication and supplies, as well as emotional support and respite for caregivers.

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Hospice services are appropriate when a patient, their family, and their physician determine the goals are comfort and quality of life with no further tests, procedures or treatments.

WhidbeyHealth Hospice team works with each patient to determine their goals. Is the patient looking for quality of life or length of life?

Ideally a patient would be in Hospice for 3-6 months. During this time the WhidbeyHealth team will work with each patient to develop a plan based on individual choices and circumstances. Hospice services are typically provided at the patient’s home, allowing them to spend their final months surrounded by loved ones.

"Often patients or their families wait until the very end before introducing hospice and miss the opportunity to have the benefits, resources and support available." Dr. Shana Fogarty Planning Ahead: End-of-life does not have to be a crisis. WhidbeyHealth Hospice services help patients and their families feel more prepared and comfortable, providing a dignified end-of-life journey. We offer informational visits for those looking to learn more and better understand the benefits of each service.

Insurance: Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurers typically cover palliative and hospice services. It is similar to seeing other specialists such as a cardiologist. Your primary care physician or specialist can refer you to Palliative Care and Hospice services, or you can contact us directly.

Whether you or your loved one needs help with recovery, ongoing support with a serious illness, or compassionate end-of-life care, our interdisciplinary team offers an individualized approach to meet your specific needs.

Learn more: www.whidbeyhealth.org/services/hospice www.whidbeyhealth.org/services/palliative-care Spring-Summer 2024

HOSPICE & PALLIATIVE CARE compassionate care throughout life’s health journey

Hospice Palliative Care

360-914-5635 360-914-5634

101 N. Main Street | Coupeville, WA 98239-3413

whidbeyhealth.org

Health & Wellness Providers

Speech Therapy - Not Just for Speech Libby Lewis, Speech-Language Pathologist Breakthrough Speech "My speech is fine. Why am I seeing a Speech Therapist?” A referral to Speech Therapy sometimes prompts this question.

Yes, Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) do help people speak better… and so much more!

Speech Therapy addresses challenges in speech, communication, cognition, voice, and swallow safety. Changes may happen suddenly, for example from a stroke, traumatic brain injury, or surgery. Other times, change is gradual, such as from a disease process or long-term misuse of the voice.

SLP assessments identify areas of both strength and impairment. Treatment may include physical or cognitive exercise, external tools to support function, or strategies to improve safety or compensate for loss.

Patient/family education and care team collaboration are also critical components of therapy.

Areas of Speech Therapy Speech Articulation: Improving Speech Clarity Difficulty articulating words can happen when the muscles used for speech lose strength or coordination, or if nerve damage prevents the brain and mouth from working together. Impaired speech may sound slurred, halting, or mumbled. If someone is no longer able to speak, SLPs can recommend alternative forms of communication.

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Language: Reduce Miscommunications and Frustration At the core of communication, language skills allow us to access words and put them into meaningful spoken or written messages, and to understand speech and text. Speech Therapy can reduce miscommunications and frustration caused by language impairments.

Voice: Vocal Strengthening and Rehabilitation Voice treatment may improve vocal quality, volume, and stamina. It targets improving performance for public speakers and singers and preventing or recovering from vocal cord damage.

Cognitive Communication: Sharpening Thinking Skills Speech-Language Pathologists help treat cognitive changes in memory, attention, orientation, and executive functions (the ability to problem-solve, organize, and fulfill plans, etc.). In addition to dementia, cognition can change from sudden injury to the brain, effects from disease, medication effects, age, and limited brain stimulation (think “use it or lose it”).

Swallow Safety: Increasing Safety for Hydration and Nutrition Like with speech, swallow muscles can lose strength and coordination, and nerves can be damaged, making swallowing difficult and unsafe. Structures may change from effects of cancer or radiation. When things “go down the wrong pipe," SLPs offer guidance Spring-Summer 2024

Health & Wellness Providers

Name

Ad Page

Area of Service

Phone

Speech Language Pathology/Rehabilitation – Adults Breakthrough Speech, LLC

Ad Below

Skagit, Island, San Juan, 360-230-8010 N. Snohomish

Speech Therapy for Adults

Areas of Treatment:

•

•

• •

www.breakthrough-speech.com 1809 Commercial Ave. #206 Anacortes, WA

Caused by:

• • • • •

to maintain safe hydration and nutrition.

Client Care and Training for Family Caregivers At Breakthrough Speech, our SLPs provide evidence based, high quality care to adults in each of these areas to promote safety, independence, and quality of life. We not only treat individuals, but provide family and caregiver training for how best to support their loved ones.

Breakthrough Speech libby@breakthrough-speech.com

Phone: 360-230-8010

in remote locations, we offer treatment via tele-therapy. We accept Medicare and some commercial insurances. We welcome the opportunity to serve you.

Libby Lewis, Speech Language Pathologist Breakthrough Speech 1809 Commercial Ave. #206, Anacortes, WA Phone: 360-230-8010 Email: libby@breakthrough-speech.com Website: www.breakthrough-speech.com

In-Person and Tele-Therapy Options In-person assessment and treatment is available at our Anacortes office. For those

VibrantSeniorOptions.com

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21

Health & Wellness Providers

Name

Ad Page Area of Service

Phone

Hospice & Palliative Care Alpha Home Health

39

Snohomish

425-357-1790

Eden Health - Hospice

1

Whatcom, Snohomish

360-966-8593

Skagit, Snohomish Island, San Juan

360-814-5550

Hospice of the Northwest

Ad Below

PeaceHealth Home and Community: – Whatcom Hospice – Palliative Care WhidbeyHealth Hospice Palliative Care

Whatcom 19

Whidbey Island

360-733-5877 360-788-8610 360-914-5635 360-914-5634

Compassion and dignity every moment of life. www.HospiceNW.org (360) 814-5550

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Spring-Summer 2024

Senior Service Professionals

Name

Ad Page

Area of Service

Phone

Transportation (Non-Emergency) CARE-E-ME

Outside Back

Skagit Transit

Ad Below Skagit

Western Washington

360-755-3239 360-757-4433

Need Transportation? CARE-E-ME can help!

Monday - Friday: 6 am - 6 pm Saturday: 8 am - 4 pm

www.careeme.com

360-755-3239

Conditions and/or disabilities prevent you from traveling?

Skagit Transit’s Paratransit Service can help! » For residents with qualified conditions and disabilities * » Wheelchair or walker welcome » Make reservations from point to point » In-person Travel Training for riding the Skagit Transit system. *You must apply to qualify for this system. *Qualified riders may use an internet scheduling platform to book rides *Paratransit fare is $2 per ride.

Weekday service hours - 6 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Weekend service hours - 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Paratransit Service 360-757-4433 ~ www.skagittransit.org

VibrantSeniorOptions.com

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23

Senior Service Professionals

Name

Ad Page Area of Service

Phone

Aging & Disability Resources Northwest Regional Council

Name

4

360-738-2500 360-428-1309

Whatcom, San Juan Skagit, Island

Ad Page Area of Service

Phone

Ad Below

Bellingham Mount Vernon

360-647-8846

Elder Law Elder Law Offices of Meyers, Neubeck & Hulford, P.S. Law Office of Lisa M. Saar

3

Bellingham, Seattle

360-733-3374

Walton Law A.P.C.

25

Bellingham

360-503-0231

Geriatric Care Manager/Elder Care Consultant Ellen Liu Kellor, MSW Age-Well LLC Kaaran McCrea, RN - Elder Law Offices of Meyers, Neubeck & Hulford, P.S.

37 Ad Below

Whatcom, Skagit, Island, San Juan, Snohomish

360-734-3064

Whatcom, Skagit

360-647-8846

David M. Neubeck* Certified Elder Law Attorney by the National Elder Law Foundation

Sara LC Hulford

Selected as a 2020, 2021, 2022, and 2023 Rising Stars attorney by Super Lawyers® *The State Supreme Court of Washington does not recognize certification of specialists in the practice of law and that the certificate, award or recognition is not a requirement to practice law in the State of Washington.

Todd L. Sliva Associate Attorney

Bellingham & Mount Vernon | 360-647-8846 | www.elderlaw-nw.com Glossary: Legal and Care Specialists

Elder Law: A specialized area of legal practice, covering estate planning, wills, trusts, arrangements for care, social security and retirement benefits, protection against elder abuse (physical, emotional and financial), and other issues that involve older people. (www.uslegal.com) Geriatric Care Manager/Elder Care Consultant: This professional is usually a licensed nurse or social worker who specializes in geriatrics. They are sort of “professional relative” who can help you and your family to identify needs and find ways to meet your needs. They will work with you to form a long-term care plan and find the services you need. National Institute on Aging 24

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Spring-Summer 2024

Senior Service Professionals

VibrantSeniorOptions.com

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25

Senior Service Professionals

Name

Ad Page

Area of Service

Phone

Medicare - Supplemental Insurance Seattle Insurance Group Malou Oneida

27

Whatcom, Skagit, Snohomish

360-472-4278

Statewide Health Insurance Benefits Advisor (SHIBA)

27

Whatcom, Skagit, Island, San Juan, Snohomish

800-562-6900

Ad Below

Whatcom, Skagit, Island, San Juan, Snohomish, King

844-236-3281

United Healthcare

One-on-one help with your Medicare questions.

Local Agent

Licensed Sales Agent

1-844-236-3281, TTY 711

Y0066_SPRJ55188_C

Glossary: Medicare Medicare: A federal program that provides health insurance coverage for seniors in the U.S. who have paid into the benefit for a certain number of periods. There are different parts of Medicare that individuals can purchase and individuals must choose which plan type they would like. Typically, individuals become eligible at the age of 65, but individuals under the age of 65 with certain disabilities may be eligible.

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Spring-Summer 2024

Senior Service Professionals

Help with Medicare is just a phone call away!

SHIBA can help you with your Medicare questions, and review plans & compare your options.

Call SHIBA for FREE, UNBIASED help:

1-800-562-6900

We’re your local Statewide Health Insurance Benefits Advisors (SHIBA) program

Take the Stress Out of Medicare With multiple plan types & many coverage options available, how do you know which is right for you?

A licensed insurance agent can make looking for answers stress-free: • What does Medicare cover and cost?

• Can I be on Medicare if I am still working?

• Can I travel with my plan?

• Which doctors and specialists can I visit?

Malou Oneida

Relax & let me help!

Call today for a no obligation, no cost appointment.

VibrantSeniorOptions.com

Licensed Insurance Agent

malou@sigbrokers.com Call today to set up a no obligation consultation.

Phone & in-person appointments available.

360-472-4278 Return to Table of Contents

27

Senior Service Professionals

CONSIDERING SELLING? HAVE QUESTIONS?

360-312-5151 | WEITZELHOMETEAM.COM

WEITZEL& ANDREW

As Seniors Real Estate Specialists® We have the knowledge and expertise to guide you to your next adventure!

HOME TEAM POWERED BY RE/MAX WHATCOM COUNTY

WE PROUDLY SERVE SENIORS AND THEIR REAL ESTATE NEEDS NORTH OF SEATTLE TO THE CANADIAN BORDER! CALL TODAY: 360-312-5151

CARMEN ANDREW & MARY NOE

Your Home to Your Heirs - To Deed or To Will?

Carmen Andrew, Managing Broker Weitzel & Andrew Home Team

M

any people assume that it’s best to put at least one of their heirs on their home title/deed well in advance of their passing to make selling the home easier. And that may be the case, BUT it will cost your heirs thousands of dollars when they go to sell the home. Why you ask….?

Heir on the Title - Capital Gains Tax When you add your heir to the title, it is the same as gifting the house to them.

And for gifting purposes in the tax world, the recipient (the one added to the title)

gets the home at the ORIGINAL COST that you paid for it when you bought it, not the current fair market value. And, because it is also not their primary home, they will have to pay capital gains tax of 15-20% on however much the home has appreciated since the day YOU purchased it.

Let’s take an example. You add your son to your title in Jan of 2024 and you bought your home for $200,000 back in 1994.. You pass away five years later in 2029 and your home is now worth $700,000. If your son chose to sell the home immediately, he would have to pay up to $100,000 in Capital Gains Tax. What should you do?

There are a few options to consider: 1. Get your will and/or trust completed, outlying who is to inherit the home and leave them OFF of the title. This way, they won’t have to pay any capital gains as they will inherit your home at the fair

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Spring-Summer 2024

Senior Service Professionals

Name

Ad Page Area of Service

Phone

Real Estate - Seniors Real Estate Specialist Jenn Eddleman, SRES Windermere/RE

Ad Below

Skagit, Whatcom, N. Snohomish

360-333-4048

Tracy Krueger RE/Max Gateway

60

Skagit, Snohomish, King

Office: 360-299-7653 Cell: 206-423-0063

Weitzel & Andrew Home Team RE/MAX Whatcom

28

Whatcom, Skagit, Island, Snohomish

Office: 360-312-5151 Cell: 360-393-0767

Jenn Eddleman, REALTOR®

SENIORS REAL ESTATE SPECIALIST ®

360-333-4048

JennEddleman@ @ w i n d e r m e r e .com

WINDERMERE REAL ESTATE / SKAGIT VALLEY 1030 East College Way · Mount Vernon, WA 98273

niors and Helping Se ies Make Their Famil Decisions Real Estate !

Since 2003

SCAN TO VISIT MY WEBSITE:

As your Seniors Real Estate Specialist®, I am commi�ed

to guiding you through the real estate process with a unique plan that meets your personal needs!

market value of the day you pass away – therefore erasing all capital gains.

2. You can get a special ‘Transfer on Death Deed,’ which shows your intention to transfer the property to your heir immediately after you pass away. They don’t own the property until you pass – again, erasing all capital gains - AND it often allows them to avoid probate.

Either option will save your heirs a tremendous amount of money and be relatively simple as long as you have all the VibrantSeniorOptions.com

206.423.0063

See ad on Page 56

proper paperwork in order (Will and/or Special Deed).

Carmen Andrew, Managing Broker Office: 360-312-5151 Mobile: 360-393-0767 www.weitzelhometeam.com

Disclaimer: I am not an attorney and the information in this article is not legal advice.

Please reach out to your trusted estate attorney for the best advice for your specific V situation.

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29

Information & Assistance

Brain Health is Everybody’s Business Kelsey Lovik, Dementia Program Specialist Northwest Regional Council

W

e all know somebody who struggles with their memory. They may or may not have an official diagnosis of some kind.

Perhaps you are wondering about your own brain health. There are hundreds of conditions known as “neurodegenerative diseases.” While some come down to genetics, or luck, there are steps that we can take to improve our brain health and lower the likelihood of developing disease.

Healthy Diet A general rule of thumb is that “what is good for the heart is good for the brain.” Maintaining a healthy diet and avoiding a sedentary lifestyle are important factors for cardiovascular health which, in turn, benefits the brain. There has been a lot of attention in recent media about specific diets or supplements that claim to prevent or reverse memory loss. Proceed with caution. For most people, keeping a balanced diet rich in fruit, vegetables, and lean proteins is sufficient for maintaining overall health. Talk to your health care provider before changing your diet or starting a new exercise program.

Maintain Fitness and Balance Exercise should be something you can enjoy on a regular basis.

Incorporating more movement into your day can help reduce the risk of falling. Falling puts us at a higher risk of brain injury, which can contribute to likelihood of developing long-term thinking or behavior problems.

Simple modifications to home environments, such as installing grab bars in the shower, will prevent the risk of falls. Check with your local community center to see if there is a group fitness class that you may be able to participate in, such as Tai-Chi, that can keep you moving and improve overall balance.

Regular check-ups Other factors that improve brain function include things like staying up to date with regular preventative health care visits, vision and hearing screenings, and making sure you are getting enough sleep.

Determine a Cognitive Baseline Finally, know your baseline. Many people notice a slowing down of brain function as they age, maybe taking longer to recall a word or occasionally misplacing objects.

However, dementia is NOT a part of typical aging. You can learn what is typical for you by completing a simple cognitive screening as part of your annual wellness exam. Then if there is a deviation it can be addressed right away. There are many factors that can impact memory and some of them are easily reversible.

(Continued on Page 36)

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Spring-Summer 2024

WE DELIVER

SAFETY. CONVENIENCE. EXCELLENCE. EXCELLENCE. SAFETY. CONVENIENCE. SAFETY. EXCELLENCE. at home at athome home HOME HEALTH HOMEHEALTH HEALTH SERVICES HOME SERVICES Skilled Nursing Skilled Nursing Nursing Skilled Physical Therapy Physical Therapy Therapy Physical

Occupational Therapy Occupational Occupational Therapy Speech Therapy Therapy Speech Speech Therapy Medical Social Social Work Medical Medical Social Work Home Health Health Aide Home Home Health Aide

Serving Whatcom Whatcom County County Serving Serving Whatcom County

360-671-5872 360-671-5872 360-671-5872

Also Serving Serving Skagit, Skagit, Island, Island, King, King, Also Serving Skagit, Island, King, Snohomish, Pierce, Pierce, & & Kitsap Kitsap Counties Counties Snohomish, Pierce, & Kitsap Counties

f f

425-747-7747 425-747-7747 425-747-7747 SignatureHCH.com SignatureHCH.com SignatureHCH.com

Glossary - Home Support

Glossary: Home Support Agencies

Home Care: Supportive care provided in the home by a professional agency. Certified Caregivers provide assistance with daily care needs and companionship. Services: Home Care agencies provide non-medical services to people with functional limitations, enabling them to maintain their highest level of independence and to age in place in their own homes. Care may include assistance with dressing, bathing, medication administration, meal preparation, household chores, errands, and more. Hours/Days: Scheduled help 2 to 24 hours per day, up to 7 days per week, or as respite care. See Home Care Directory on Page 34.

Home Health: In-home services provided include Skilled Nursing Care and various therapies prescribed by a physician. This includes physical, occupational, respiratory and speech therapies, often used for seniors who are recovering after a hospital and/or nursing home stay.

See Home Health Directory on Page 38.

Home Modifications - Safety & Accessibility: Regular attention to Home Safety and Accessibility is known to decrease fall risks and increase the chances of aging in your own home. Home Analysis for potential improvements should be done by a Home Contractor who is a Certified Aging-In-Place Specialist (CAPS Certified). This person will look at many factors, including: rugs, electrical cords, placement of furniture, and functional supports around the home. See Home Modifications Directory on Page 41.

Live Well with In-Home Care If you live in Island, Clallam or Jefferson Coun�es Please call for your Free Care Consulta�on

360.681.2511 or HomeInstead.com/650

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Spring-Summer 2024

Live your life.

Live your life.

rsonal caresolutions solutions for nal care forindependence independence andwellness wellness at and athome home

Home LicensedNursing Nursing Care me Licensed Care st-Hospitalization Recovery Hospitalization Recovery mpanionship&&Lifestyle Lifestyle Assistance Service panionship Assistance Service

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Your pathway ho

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Saratoga Transitional Rehab

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Transitional Rehab Transitional Rehab The Josephine Caring Community

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• In Home Licensed Nursing Care • Post-Hospitalization Recovery • Post-Hospital / Surgical Care • Companionship & Lifestyle Assistance Service

team at the Josephine Caring Com

Post-Hospital / Surgical Care • • Physical, Occupational, Speech and Swallowing The • • Regain Life Skills and Independence Physical, Occupational, Speech and Swallow •

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at Josephine The Suites The Josephine Caring Community

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360.

Home Support

Name

Ad Page

Area of Service

Phone

Inside Front

Whatcom, Skagit

360-200-5355

Whatcom, Skagit, Island

360-922-0975

Home Care 7 Sisters Homecare BrightStar Care of Bellingham/ Mount Vernon Cascade Connections

Ad Below Whatcom County

360-594-4216

Circle of Life Caregiver Cooperative

32

Whatcom County

360-647-1537

Eden Health - Home Care

1

Whatcom, Skagit, Island, Snohomish

360-966-8586

Heartsong Homecare Co-op

36

Skagit, Island

360-474-2560

Home Instead

35

Whatcom, Skagit, San Juan

360-982-2461

Home Instead - Island

32

Island, Clallam & Jefferson Counties

360-681-2511

King, Snohomish, Island, Skagit

360-240-9525

Skagit, North Snohomish, Camano Island

360-386-3106

Northwest Washington

360-982-2743 360-543-5777

Homewatch CareGivers Josephine At Home Right at Home Northwest

33 Outside Back

Take My Hand At Home Care

36

Whatcom County

Visiting Angels

4

Whatcom, Skagit, Island, San 888-264-3528 Juan, Snohomish

Your care is our passion – remain independent in your home with personal care, transportation support, and companionship.

360-200-5355 34

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Spring-Summer 2024

Home Instead® Care Professionals can help you or a loved one stay independent, at

home.

Call (360) 982-2461 or visit HomeInstead.com/717

Locations 1501 Parker Way, Ste. 106, Mt. Vernon 1333 King Street, Ste. A, Bellingham PERSONAL CARE | TRANSPORTATION MEALS & NUTRITION | MEMORY CARE Each Home Instead® office is an independently owned and operated franchise of Home Instead, Inc., an Honor Company. © 2024 Home Instead, Inc.

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Remain independent and stay connected with family, even during a pandemic. pandemic.

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Heartsong Homecare Co-op: 360-474-2560

Brain Health is Everybody's Business (Continued from Page 30)

Talk About Brain Health Talking openly and honestly about brain health will help to reduce the stigma around neurodegenerative diseases such as dementia.

Timely intervention can make all the difference in getting an early and accurate diagnosis and getting connected with relevant supports and services. Routine cognitive screenings should 36

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be viewed no differently than blood pressure readings or colonoscopies.

To learn more about brain health visit: www.nia.nih.gov/health/brain-health Kelsey Lovik, Dementia Program Specialist Email: nwrcdementia@dshs.wa.gov Website: www.nwrcwa.org V

Spring-Summer 2024

Home Support

Name

Ad Page

Area of Service

Phone

Home Support - Elder Care Consultant Whatcom, Skagit, Ad Below Island, San Juan, Snohomish

Ellen Liu Kellor, MSW Age-Well LLC Kaaran McCrea, RN - Elder Law Offices of Meyers, Neubeck & Hulford, P.S.

24

Whatcom, Skagit

360-734-3064

360-647-8846

Age-Well “The Art of Aging”

OFFICE: 360.734.3064 EMAIL: ellen.kellor.msw@gmail.com www.age-well.com LLC

Together we will create a plan of action and develop a network of support to maximize your resources, choices, safety, health, and joy.

Ellen Liu Kellor, MSW Elder Care Consultant / Geriatric Care Manager CertiÞed in Gerontology & Guardianship / Over 2 decades in Healthcare, Geriatrics and Social Work

Aging-in-Place • In-Home Care • Dementia Care • Transitions • Housing • POA • Life Enrichment Hiring Caregivers • Maximizing BeneÞts • Legacy Projects • Celebrations of Life • Family Support

Name

Ad Page

Area of Service

Phone

Home Support – Volunteer Assistance & Mutual Support Membership Bellingham At Home

Ad Below Bellingham

360-746-3462

Be part of a community that has your back!

A Senior Village Without Walls: Volunteer Assistance, Mutual Support BellinghamAtHome.org 360-746-3462 A program of the Whatcom Council on Aging VibrantSeniorOptions.com

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V

37

Home Support

Name

Ad Page

Area of Service

Phone

Home Health Alpha Home Health

39

Skagit, Island, San Juan, Snohomish

425-357-1790

Eden Health - Home Health

1

Whatcom, Skagit, Island, Snohomish

360-734-5410

Josephine At Home

33

Snohomish, Camano 360-386-3106 Island

PeaceHealth Home and Community – Home Health

Whatcom

360-788-8143

Signature Healthcare At Home

Center 31

Whatcom

360-671-5872

Signature Healthcare At Home

Center 31

Skagit, Island, Snohomish

425-747-7747

DELIVER

WE DELIVER WE DELIVER SAFETY. CONVENIENCE. EXCELLENCE.

SAFETY. CONVENIENCE. EXCELLENCE. at home at home

HOME HEALTH SERVICES

HOME HEALTH SERVICES WE DELIVER TY. CONVENIENCE. EXCELLENCE. SAFETY. CONVENIENCE. EXCELLENCE. Skilled Nursing atNursing home Skilled at home Physical Therapy Physical Therapy Occupational Therapy Occupational Therapy Speech Therapy Speech Therapy Medical Social Work Medical Social Work Serving Whatcom County Home Health Aide 360-671-5872 Home Health Aide

HOME HEALTH SERVICES

Skilled Nursing EALTH SERVICES Physical Therapy

Occupational Therapy

lled Nursing Speech Therapy

Medical Social Work

sical Therapy Home Health Aide

ational Therapy

Also Serving Skagit, Island, King, Snohomish, Pierce, & Kitsap Counties

425-747-7747

f

Serving Whatcom County

Serving Whatcom County Serving Whatcom County

360-671-5872 360-671-5872

Also Serving Skagit, Island, King, Also Serving Skagit, Island, King, Snohomish, Pierce, & Kitsap Counties Snohomish, Pierce, & Kitsap Counties

ff

425-747-7747 425-747-7747 SignatureHCH.com SignatureHCH.com

Remodeling for360-671-5872 Aging in Place eech Therapy SignatureHCH.com

living community, I spent the next month RobertWork Burns, Owner Also Serving Skagit, Island, King, cal Social Counties retrofitting my mom’s condo. Goals included Envision Remodels Snohomish, Pierce, & Kitsap e Health Aide facilitating her limited mobility and accessibility nvision Homes has been remodeling and her need for independent control. Most in the Puget Sound area for over 20 SignatureHCH.com importantly, these plans merged with another f years. However, a personal experience with goal to create life safety and security. This my 90-year-old mom unveiled an aspect to experience illuminated my focus on agingremodeling I had not yet recognized. She went in-place remodeling and led me to receive from active and independent to almost unable certification in the field. to function in her condo within a month. Upon The Key to Remodeling for Aging-in-Place visiting her, I was overcome with how poorly I learned the key to a successful aging-insuited her residence was for aging-in-place place remodel is that the design process must living. Faced with the alternative of an assisted (Continued on Page 40)

E

38

425-747-7747

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Spring-Summer 2024

Home Support

Learn How To Stay Living In Your Own Home

Remodeling for Aging in Place (Continued from Page 38)

give careful consideration to each individual’s personal challenges and needs. Understanding that each of us are faced with our own unique challenges as we age, the design and remodeling process must prioritize the owners personal health journey without compromising aesthetics.

Enhanced Accessibility One key aspect of remodeling for agingin-place is enhancing accessibility. This often involves making structural changes such as mindful placement of critical cabinetry and storage. Other enhancements for accessibility include widening doorways, reconfiguring for simplicity, and creating barrier-free entrances.

risk of accidents. Lever-style faucets and door hardware, and easy-to-reach storage enhance functionality.

Lighting and Home Monitoring Effective lighting is crucial for aging eyes, and proper illumination can be achieved through thoughtful remodeling. Installing brighter lights, incorporating task lighting in key areas, and minimizing glare contribute to a safer and more comfortable living environment. Smart home technology, including occupancy-sensors and voice-activated controls, can further enhance convenience. This also goes beyond lighting to include home monitoring solutions and voiceactivated assistants, which contribute to the safety and well-being of seniors.

Bathroom Safety and Functionality

In conclusion, remodeling for aging-in-place creates homes that evolve with individuals as they age. From structural adjustments to embracing technological advancements, these modifications empower seniors to maintain their independence, dignity, and connection to their cherished homes. As the trend towards aging in place continues to grow, thoughtful remodeling practices will become increasingly essential in fostering a society that values and supports its aging population.

Bathrooms pose a common challenge, and remodeling efforts often concentrate on making this space safer and more accessible. The installation of grab bars, non-slip flooring, and walk-in showers can significantly reduce the

Robert Burns, Owner Envision Remodels 206-356-7853 robert@envisionremodels.com www.envisionremodels.com

The Kitchen Remodel for Independence The kitchen is a critical area for enhancing access and independence. Task-oriented countertop heights, relocating storage, installing pull-out shelves, and choosing appliances with userfriendly controls contribute to a more accessible kitchen environment. These modifications allow seniors to continue their culinary pursuits with ease.

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Spring-Summer 2024

Home Support

Name

Ad Page

Area of Service

Phone

Home Modifications - Safety & Accessibility Aging In Place By Design

Ad Below

Envision Remodels

Inside Whatcom Front Cover

206-356-7853

Mindsight Metal

Ad Below

360-255-3237

Whatcom, Skagit

360-220-4980

All Local Counties

Be Safe in Your Forever Home Kitchen - Bath - Remodel New Construction

Susie Landsem

Certified Aging in Place Specialist Design Consultant

Call for a Free Consultation (360) 220-4980

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41

The Senior Café

Everything Used to be Simpler Linda Jinkens, Freelance Writer Arlington, Washington

A

s I roll through my seventh decade of life, I long for how simple life used to be. I could turn a knob, and the TV would come on. I could hand cash to the clerk to pay for items. I could pay for tickets at counters behind which real people stood. Getting a new radio did not involve reading pages of minuscule print. Lids on jars were easy to twist off and had no plastic or foil underneath to remove. And appliances were simple to operate.

You’d think a shopping cart would still be simple to maneuver.

looking shopping carts. A tall yellow sponge tube stuck up in each cart. Each tube may have been six or seven feet. (My son told me later, a bit surprised, “They were pool noodles, Mom. Haven’t you heard of pool noodles?” I guess he didn’t realize I hadn’t been near a pool in 40 years.) I figured the strange objects had something to do with surveillance.

I wasn’t sure, but maybe management could see the carts throughout the store by noticing the yellow tubes in the air, possibly.

Looking for Dolls

The Dollar Store

I quickly filled up my cart, but could not find any small dolls.

I had driven to a dollar store to pick up items for my grandkids. I wanted some small dolls, stuffed animals, and coloring books. When I walked in, I noticed a plethora of strange-

At the checkout, I asked the young greenhaired clerk, “I’m just wondering if I missed small dolls in here. I’d like some for my granddaughters.”

The clerk looked at me and said, “Oh, girls don’t want dolls. They want doll heads. But we are out of them.”

My mouth must have dropped open. And I know my hearing is very bad. (Hearing aides are on my list.) I said, “Heads? They want heads?”

She repeated loudly, acting like I was deaf as a doorpost,“YES, HEADS! They like to comb their hair and do their makeup. They are LARGE DOLL HEADS.” Exiting the Dollar Store I envisioned large heads that looked like they had been guillotined, all in a row. What on earth?

What happened to just normal heads attached to bodies? And makeup? Puzzled, I paid for my (Continued on Page 46)

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Spring-Summer 2024

Glossary - Housing & Care

Name

Ad Page

Area of Service

Phone

Advisory & Referral Services - Housing & Care Senior Living Options of the Northwest

Ad Below

Whatcom, Skagit, Island, San Juan, N. Snohomish

760-808-2375

Senior Living Options of the Northwest Searching for Housing or Housing with Care? Call for Help: * Personal escort on tours of each new home/community * Asking the right questions for the answers you need * Assistance and guidance with necessary paperwork * Work with VA Aid & Attendance, Medicaid, and others

Resource and Family Advisor Website: www.slonw.com ~ Phone: 760-808-2375 Absolutely No Charge to You or Your Loved One for Our Services!

Glossary: Housing & Care

Adult Family Home (Adult Care Home): A residence owned or rented by a licensed provider.

Room and board, trained caregivers 24 hours a day, and assisted care services for 2 to 6 adults are provided in a home environment. Licensed Nurses on staff are not required, but may be available. (Non-secured memory care may be available) Assisted Living Community: Apartments for seniors with physical and/or cognitive impairments who may need assistance from trained caregivers. Meals, housecleaning, and activities to help seniors stay physically active and socially engaged are provided. Trained caregivers 24 hrs/day and Licensed Nursing up to 24 hrs/day. (Non-secured memory care may be available) Continuing Care Community: These offer three or more types of senior housing in one community location, reducing the need for a senior to move as they age. Senior housing options may include: Retirement, Assisted Living, Memory Care, Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation.

Memory Care Community: This is special care in a secured community for people who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. Some are stand-alone Memory Care communities, while others are located within Assisted Living or Skilled Nursing facilities.

Trained Caregivers 24 hrs/day and Licensed Nursing up to 24 hrs/day.

Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation: A qualified facility that has the staff and equipment to provide round-the-clock skilled nursing care (RN’s and LPN’s) and rehabilitation services such as physical, occupational, respiratory, and speech therapies. Also included are Social Work services, Medical Director oversight, and care giving staff to assist with personal care needs.

VibrantSeniorOptions.com

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43

Housing - Independent

Glossary: Housing - Independent

Affordable Housing: A subsidized apartment rental program for people who are disabled or elderly, including Section 8, HUD, public housing, and tax credit buildings.

Independent/Retirement: Private apartments rented to seniors. Some offer three meals per day. Activity programs and housekeeping may be provided, but residents are capable of independent living. Private pay only. Retirement Communities are maintenance free to seniors.

County

Name

Ad Page

City

Phone

Affordable Housing Skagit

Highland Greens Apartments

45

Mount Vernon

360-848-2193

Skagit

Mount Vernon Manor

45

Mount Vernon

360-424-5810

Skagit

Salem Village Apartments

45

Mount Vernon

360-428-5662

Page 6

E FR E

Heritage Flight Museum

The Flight, Space and Apollo 8 Moonshot!

ke O Island, San Juan,

Hicks, 2023 Photo courtesy: Karen

| Home Support Health & Wellness Active Lifestyles | Service Professionals Senior Housing | Senior

N. Snohomish

Ta

Whatcom, Skagit,

Table of Contents Page 3

GUIDE MAGAZINE

2024

THE RESOURCE

PTION SENIOR OPTIO

Spring-Summer,

2-Year Subscription: $13

ne

Subscribe!

1-Year Subscription: $8

V i b r a nNSt

Vibrant Senior Options Resource Guide Magazine in your Mailbox!

Vibrant Senior Options, LLC

Mail your check 1211 Railroad Avenue and address to:

Sedro-Woolley, WA 98284

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Spring-Summer 2024

Housing - Independent

Mount Vernon Manor 2405 Austin Lane Mount Vernon, WA 98273

360-424-5810 * Low income Housing for Seniors 62+ * Income Limits and Assets Apply * Independent Living * Resident Services Coordinator (Assists with Available Programs)

Call today to get on the Waiting List!

Se Habla Espanol

V S C

alem illage ommunities

a non-profit corporation

VibrantSeniorOptions.com

www.salemvillage.org

Carefree Senior Cottages

Affordable Senior Apts

City Living & Country Atmosphere Highland Greens Apts 3100 N 30th Street 360-848-2193 highlandgreens@coastmgt.com Salem Village Apts 2619 N LaVenture Rd 360-428-5662 salemvillage@coastmgt.com

Providing Senior Adults Quality Housing in a Caring Community

Convenient Mount Vernon Locations!

Your Home, Our Responsibility Highland Greens II Village Ct @ 3200 N 30th St 360-540-1438 Salem Village II 2601-2617 N LaVenture Rd 360-540-1438

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45

The Senior Café

Everything Used to be Simpler (Continued from Page 42)

items and put the bag into the cart. I headed out the door to my car, as I usually unloaded the cart and then pushed it back into the store.

I didn’t get too far.

I pushed the cart out the door, but it went maybe one foot forward and stopped. Hmm. I pulled the cart back in. I tried again. I pushed harder. This time the cart went sideways, but was still stuck. Was it the wheels? Maybe not working correctly? I peered down at the wheels. Nope, they looked OK. I tried again. The cart went a foot the other direction. Puffing hard, I thought to myself, I have sure lost strength in my arms when I can’t get the cart through the door! I determinedly pulled it back, grit my teeth, and gave the cart a magnificent shove. Nope. It only went a short distance again.

The Cart With a Tube I looked up at the tube for the first time, then, and noticed it was stuck to the door frame.

Peering up through my reading glasses (not

prescription glasses which I really need), I saw there was a piece of metal at the top of the tube, and it was stuck to the frame. It hit me like a two by four! The tube was magnetized to keep the cart in the store! Who would have thunk?

Standing with one foot outside the door, I looked back inside, chagrined. There was a dead silence. The clerk was frowning at me, looking like a statue, one hand frozen in the air above the cash register. The other customers in line were all staring, too, unfriendly. Did they think I was trying to steal the cart? Did I look homeless?

Outsmarted by a Shopping Cart I felt my life slowly roll by in front of me like an old VHS tape. I yanked my cart back into the store and stared back hard at all of the folks, holding my head high, to show everyone I was not humiliated in the least at being a spectacle!

I grabbed my bag. Everyone slowly looked away as I marched out the door.

Will I go back there? Not in a million years.

Someone may recognize me as that older woman trying to abscond with a shopping cart in broad daylight.

One good thing. I didn’t see anyone pull out a cell phone to make a video. It might have been titled “Grandma Outsmarted by Shopping Cart.” I’m sure it would have gone viral.

Linda Jinkens is a freelance writer who enjoys bicycling, baking, and her five grandchildren.

She has been freelancing for the last six years and has been published in many publications.

She is also a former high school teacher.) V

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Spring-Summer 2024

Housing - Independent

County

Name

Ad Page

City

Phone

Independent/Retirement Living Whatcom

Cordata Court Senior Living

49

Bellingham

360-302-4496

Whatcom

Rosewood Villa

49

Bellingham

360-312-7833

Whatcom

Solstice Senior Living

Bellingham

360-671-6060

Skagit

Cap Sante Court

Anacortes

360-707-8260

Skagit

Highland Greens II

45

Mount Vernon 360-540-1438

Skagit

Salem Village II

45

Mount Vernon 360-540-1438

Skagit

The Bridge at Mount Vernon

51

Mount Vernon 360-416-0400

Skagit

Country Meadow Village

North Snohomish

Cascade Village at Smokey Point

North Snohomish

Warm Beach Senior Community

Ad Below

Ad Below

SedroWoolley

360-856-0404

Marysville

360-654-4100

Inside Stanwood Back Cover

360-652-7585

“My Village, My Family.”

SCHEDULE A TOUR & MEET OUR FAMILY!

(360) 856-0404 INDEPENDENT LIVING

INDEPENDENT LIVING • ASSISTED LIVING

1501 Collins Road Sedro-Woolley, WA www.villageconcepts.com ASSISTED LIVING

�ctive �ndependent �enior �ommunit� • All Inclusive Utilities plus 100 channel cable & Wifi • Fresh, Home-made Meals Light Housekeeping • Complimentary On-site Laundry Facility

• Next to Storvik Park – Walking Trails, Picnic Shelters, and More!

• Pet Friendly 1111 32nd Street, Anacortes, WA | www.CapSanteCourt.com VibrantSeniorOptions.com

�ome in for a �our �oday!

360-707-8260

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47

Housing & Care

County

Name

Ad Page

City

Phone

Ad Below

SedroWoolley

(C) 360-840-9247 (H) 360-873-8223

Adult Family Home - Skagit Joshua's House Adult Family Home

Skagit

Not Just A House, But A Home

County

♥ Residents treated with dignity, respect, and love ♥ Home Cooked Meals ♥ Activities Coordinator – 7 days/week ♥ High Caregiver Ratio

Cell: (360) 840-9247 Home: (360) 873-8223

1809 Township, Sedro-Woolley

Adult Family Home

Ad Page

City

Phone

49

Bellingham

360-302-4496

Ad Below

Bellingham

360-671-1459

Name

Joshua’s House

Assisted Living Communities - Whatcom Whatcom

Cordata Court Senior Living

Whatcom

Highgate Senior Living

Whatcom

Rosewood Villa

49

Bellingham

360-312-7833

Whatcom

Avista Senior Living

49

Ferndale

360-384-9017

Every life has meaning.

Every day has joy.

48

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Our mission at Highgate is to help every resident live a life of purpose. We really get to know our residents – their stories, their families, their interests, and their passions – so that no matter what age or what ailment, we can support each person in living a happy and fulfilling life.

HighgateSeniorLiving.com Call (360) 671-1459 Spring-Summer 2024

Housing & Care

Your Loved One in Great Hands Rosewood Villa Assisted Living provides superior care in a familial and supportive community where love and respect abound.

Our team members cultivate true relationships with your loved one, deliberately creating positive experience every day.

Call (360) 312 7833 to schedule a tour!

702 32nd Street Bellingham, WA 98225

www.RosewoodVilla.com

Age in Place with a Winner!

Join your friends and bring your pets to award-winning senior living in Bellingham.

Cordata Court Senior Living: • Independent Living • Assisted Living • Memory Care Call (360) 302-4496 to tour our beautiful community today!

Live an Exceptional Life at Avista Ferndale Our apartments offer plenty of storage space for keepsakes, an easy-to-navigate layout, and all the amenities one could want.

Each apartment is just a step away from community dining, cozy living rooms, and outdoor spaces to get fresh air and sunshine.

• •

Caring Staff On Site 24 hours/Day One Bedroom Apartments & Studios, Pet Friendly

360-384-9017

AvistaSeniorLiving.com/ferndale VibrantSeniorOptions.com

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49

Housing & Care

County

Name

Ad Page

City

Phone

Assisted Living Communities - Skagit & Island Skagit

Rosario Assisted Living

Ad Below Anacortes

360-293-3174

Skagit

Where The Heart Is Assisted Living & Memory Care

51

Burlington

Skagit

The Bridge at Mount Vernon

51

Mount Vernon 360-416-0400

Skagit

Country Meadow Village

47

Sedro-Woolley 360-856-0404

360-755-8007

Assisted Living & Memory Care

Soundview Rehabilitation

Our loving team will walk you through the services we can offer, including cottages with private apartments and compassionate caregivers.

On the same campus as Rosario Assisted Living, Soundview provides compassionate nursing care in a safe and nurturing environment.

Call today to learn more about these neighboring Anacortes communities.

Email: Veronicah@hyattff.com | Main: 360.293.3174 | Cell: 425.622.4480

County

Name

Ad Page

City

Phone

Stanwood

360-629-2126

Inside Stanwood Back Cover

360-652-7585

Continuing Care Communities N. Snohomish Josephine Caring Community N. Snohomish

50

Warm Beach Senior Community

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33

Spring-Summer 2024

Housing & Care

Life Lives Better at Where The Heart Is

In our small, intimate environment, purposeful activities empower residents to create a community that speaks to them. Focus is placed on inclusion, resident ideas, choices, and independence. Our goal is to focus on what is possible.

We believe those are keys to a life well-lived.

“Once we have lived, the spark of vision does the rest.”

- Maria Montessori Visit anytime and learn about our compassionate care. 360-755-8007 whereheartis.com | 410 Norris Street, Burlington

THE GOODLIFE

EXPERIENCE PREMIER ASSISTED LIVING.

Call 360.416.0400 to schedule a tour!

• Luxurious Living • E xc i t i n g Ac t i v i t i e s • Gourmet Dining

County

Name

Ad Page

142696

301 South LaVenture Road TheBridgeAtMountVernon.com

City

Phone

Ad Below

Arlington

360-435-3222

33

Stanwood

360-629-2126

Inside Stanwood Back Cover

360-652-7585

Assisted Living Communities - North Snohomish N. Snohomish Cascade Valley Senior Living N. Snohomish The Suites at Josephine N. Snohomish Warm Beach - Cedar Court

Welcome to Your New Home!

• Assisted Living & Memory Care • Atmosphere of a cozy country setting • Activities/Outings • "In The Moment" living experience 8400 207th Place NE, Arlington, WA VibrantSeniorOptions.com

�ome in for a �our �oday!

360.435.3222

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51

Housing & Care

County

Name

Ad Page

City

Phone

Memory Care Communities - Whatcom, Skagit, Island, N. Snohomish Whatcom

Cordata Court Senior Living

49

Bellingham

360-302-4496

Whatcom

Highgate Senior Living

48

Bellingham

360-671-1459

Whatcom

The Bellingham at Orchard

53

Bellingham

360-715-1338

Whatcom

Silverado Memory Care

Ad Below Bellingham

360-746-6675

Skagit

Lighthouse Memory Care

Skagit

Rosario Assisted Living & Memory Care

Skagit

Anacortes

360-399-7263

50

Anacortes

360-293-3174

HomePlace Burlington Memory Care

53

Burlington

360-755-7000

Skagit

Where The Heart Is Assisted Living & Memory Care

51

Burlington

360-755-8007

Island

HomePlace Oak Harbor Memory Care

Oak Harbor

360-279-2555

N. Snohomish Cascade Valley Senior Living

51

Arlington

360-435-3222

N. Snohomish The Meadows at Josephine

33

Stanwood

360-629-2126

Can the Right Care Help Slow the Progression of Alzheimer’s?

Nexus® at Silverado is showing it may be possible A non-drug approach focusing on lifestyle, Nexus is Silverado’s evidence-based brain health program. Academic research has validated that participants in Nexus at Silverado showed a statistically significant 60% improvement in cognition when compared to those without such treatment.

See firsthand what brain-healthy living is all about! silverado.com/nexus

Call (360) 746-6675 for a tour or for more information bellingham memory care | community

52

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silverado.com/bellingham #2517

Spring-Summer 2024

Housing & Care

♥ Award-winning SPARK activity program ♥ Exceptional Accommodations ♥ 5-Star Cuisine ♥ Social Outings

Call 360-755-7000 to learn about our SPARK Montessori inspired program or to schedule a tour.

210 N Skagit Street Burlington, WA 98233

HomePlace Memory Care at Burlington provides an enriched, meaningful living experience.

Vibrant Senior Options Magazine in your Mailbox!

Page 6

E FR E

Heritage Flight Museum

The Flight, Space and Apollo 8 Moonshot!

ke O Island, Whatcom, Skagit,

Hicks, 2023

San Juan, N. Snohomish

Ta

| Home Support Health & Wellness Active Lifestyles | Service Professionals Senior Housing | Senior

Photo courtesy: Karen

Table of Contents Page 3

GUIDE MAGAZINE

2024

THE RESOURCE

PTION SENIOR OPTIO

Spring-Summer,

ne

Mail a check and your mailing address to:

V i b r a nNSt

Subscription: $8 Subscribe! 1-Year 2-Year Subscription: $13

Vibrant Senior Options 1211 Railroad Avenue Sedro-Woolley, WA 98284

VibrantSeniorOptions.com

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53

Memory Memory Care Care & & Support Support

County

Name

Ad Page

City

Phone

Adult Day Programs Whatcom

Echo Valley Adult Day Care and Respite

Ad Below

Maple Falls

360-319-8958

Skagit

The Bradford House

Ad Below

Burlington

360-755-1235

The

The

BRADFORD HOUSE

GENTRY HOUSE

Leigh Ann Benson, Executive Director

Gavin Ellis, Site Director & Community Education

(360) 755-1235

(360) 755-1235

116 North Skagit Street Burlington, WA 98233

Coming Back Soon! www.skagitadultdayprogram.org

A supervised daytime program where adults with cognitive impairment can participate in a supportive group setting with friends.

County

Name

Ad Page

City

Phone

Ad Below

Maple Falls

360-319-8958

Overnight Respite Whatcom

Echo Valley Adult Day Care and Respite

Respite for you, A retreat for your loved one!

Give us a call.

360.319.8958

Daycare & Respite Options for Day and Overnight Stays 8487 Full Moon Way Maple Falls, WA 98266 Located off of Silver Lake Rd. echovalleyrespite@gmail.com

Kris Mason, LPN

Echovalleyrespite.com 54

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Spring-Summer 2024

Memory Care & Support

Name

Ad Page

Area of Service

Phone

Washington State

800-272-3900

Whatcom, Skagit

360-671-3316

Memory Care Education & Support Alzheimer’s Association

Ad Below

Dementia Support Northwest Ellen Liu Kellor, MSW / Age-Well LLC (Consultant)

37

Multi-County

360-734-3064

Skagit Adult Day Program

54

Skagit

360-755-1235

The dementia journey isn't easy.

Reaching us is.

You're not alone. We're here to help.

Care consultation • Support groups Education • Advocacy • Research

24/7 Helpline 1.800.272.3900 Visit us online at alzwa.org

Social Connections and Dementia Teepa Snow, Positive Approach to Care

T

he need and desire for social connection is different for each individual. Some get their energy from being in the presence of other humans Some individuals require frequent periods of solitude to recharge their energy, and being around others without those solo moments can really be draining. Regardless, we all need relationships with other individuals in our lives. Unfortunately, when our brains are changing, maintaining and nurturing those relationships can often present a challenge.

Many of us have experienced the phenomenon of a friend falling off the face of the earth.

This can happen all too frequently for people who are living with dementia, who often feel that their friends seem to disappear once they are diagnosed. Any idea why this might be?

VibrantSeniorOptions.com

Here are just a few of the possibilities: • The friend invites the person living with dementia to an outing or offers to visit them, but the person forgets to respond or declines the invitation.

• The person living with dementia begins saying or doing things that cause their friend to be uncomfortable, so the friend starts to avoid contact.

• The friend thinks the connection no longer matters to the person living with dementia.

• The family of the person living with dementia purposely or inadvertently isolates them from their friend.

Whatever the reason, the result is a loss – whether it is one friendship or many – at a time when connections are critically important.

(Continued on Page 57) Return to Table of Contents

55

Housing & Care

County

Name

Ad Page

City

Phone

Assisted Living Communities: Medically Complex - North Snohomish N. Snohomish Warm Beach - Forest Lane

Inside Stanwood Back Cover

360-652-7585

County

Ad Page

City

Phone

Bellingham

360-398-1966

Bellingham

360-734-6760

Name

Skilled Nursing & Short Term Rehabilitation Whatcom

North Cascades Health & Rehabilitation Center

Whatcom

St. Frances of Bellingham

Skagit

Soundview Rehabilitation

50

Anacortes

360-293-3174

Skagit

Life Care Center of Skagit Valley

57

SedroWoolley

360-856-6867

Island

Regency Coupeville Rehabilitation & Nursing Center

Coupeville

360-678-2273

North Snohomish

Saratoga Transitional Rehab at Josephine

Stanwood

360-629-2126

Ad Below

33

24-Hour Skilled Nursing Care

short term rehab & long term care services

• Providing Post-acute Care, Rehab, Respite, & Hospice Care • Physical, Occupational, & Speech Therapies - Available 7-days a week • Large Private Rooms, Satellite TV, Wi-Fi, and Phones •Highly Dedicated and Caring Staff

4680 Cordata Parkway, Bellingham (360)398-1966 • ncascadeshealthandrehab.com 56

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Spring-Summer 2024

g environment

ofSkagitValley.com

Sedro Woolley, WA

Housing & Care

Recovery starts here.

Let our skilled, compassionate rehab team help you get back to the life you love, sooner.

• Personalized Rehabilitation Services Recovery starts here.

•LetPrivate Rehab Suites our skilled, compassionate rehab team help you

get back to the life you love, sooner.

• In-House Therapy 7 Days a Week

Personalized Rehabilitation Services • Private Rehab Suites In-House Therapy 7 Days a Week • Comfortable, healing environment

• Comfortable, healing environment

86698

Call for your personal tour today. 360.856.6867 | LifeCareCenterofSkagitValley.com

1462 W. SR-20 Sedro Woolley, WA

Call 360.856.6867 for your personal tour today.

As a Friend: • Be pleasantly persistent with your invitations.

Rather than offer yes/no invitations (Would you like to go for a walk with me?), rephrase your request with a more persuasive ask (I walk every day after lunch, and I’d love it if you’d join me on Tuesdays. It would mean a lot.)

• If your friend’s abilities have changed in such a way that you don’t know what to do, consider building your knowledge base and developing skills for interacting with those living with brain change.

As a Care Partner for a person living with dementia: • Offer to help arrange social connections and, if the situation warrants, attend with them.

Perhaps it means making a few phone calls and setting up a lunch event, or a walk in the park, as examples.

VibrantSeniorOptions.com

• Offer to help by partnering with the person you care about to send greeting cards, notes, and pictures to friends on a regular basis.

• Accompany your person to volunteer activities or other events where he or she may be able to make new connections.

• If friends express hesitancy due to the person living with dementia’s condition, provide information and ideas for engagement and interaction. Offer to be there for the visit or to help facilitate a phone call.

• Keep track of social engagement activities to find that match between what creates joy for the person you care about, and, alternatively, what causes distress.

At the end of the day, we all need social connections. During a dementia experience, many individuals will need guidance and support to maintain these essential connections. As you think about the person you support, what are you willing to do to set the stage for success when it comes to social engagement?

86698

Social Connections and Dementia (Continued from Page 55) What can be done to facilitate a different outcome?

Teepa Snow, MS, OTR/L, FAOTA Positive Approach, LLC 877-877-1671, www.TeepaSnow.com Return to Table of Contents

V

57

Directories - Housing & Care Independent/Retirement (IL) and/or Assisted Living (AL) Whatcom County

Bellingham

Brookdale Fairhaven IL/AL Cordata Court Senior Living AL Highgate Senior Living AL Orchard Park IL/AL Solstice Senior Living IL Rosewood Villa AL Spring Creek IL/AL Summit Place AL The Willows IL Sapphire at Woodway IL/AL

Ferndale

Avista Sr. Living AL

Lynden

Lynden Manor IL/AL Meadow Greens IL/AL

Skagit County

Anacortes

Cap Sante Court IL Chandler’s Square IL/ AL Rosario AL San Juan Assisted Living AL

Burlington

Creekside IL/AL Where The Heart Is AL

La Conner

La Conner Retirement IL/AL

Mount Vernon

The Bridge IL/AL Heather Village IL Highland Greens IL Mountain Glen IL/AL Salem Village IL

Sedro-Woolley

Country Meadow Village IL/AL Island County

Freeland

Maple Ridge IL/AL

Oak Harbor

Harbor Tower Village IL/AL Regency on Whidbey IL/AL Summer Hill AL Welcome Home Oak Harbor AL San Juan County

Friday Harbor

Village at the Harbor IL/AL North Snohomish

Arlington

Cascade Valley Senior Living AL Olympic Place by Bonaventure IL/AL

Marysville

Cascade Village at Smokey Point IL The Gardens at Marysville IL/AL Grandview Village IL/ AL

Smokey Point

Fields Senior Living IL/ AL

Stanwood

Brookdale Stanwood IL/AL The Suites at Josephine AL Warm Beach Senior Community IL/AL

Memory Care Communities Whatcom County

Bellingham

Bellingham at Orchard Cordata Court MC Highgate Sr. Living Silverado Memory Care Spring Creek MC

Lynden

Christian Health Care Lynden Manor Memory Care

North Snohomish

Skagit County

Anacortes

Lighthouse Memory Care Rosario Assisted Living

Burlington

Creekside MC HomePlace Memory Care Where The Heart Is

Mount Vernon

Ashley Gardens

Sedro-Woolley Birchview MC Island County

Oak Harbor

Regency on Whidbey HomePlace Memory Care Welcome Home Oak Harbor

Arlington

Cascade Valley Senior Living

Marysville

Fieldstone MC The Cottages at Marysville

Smokey Point

Fields Senior Living

Stanwood

Brookdale Stanwood The Meadows at Josephine

Skilled Nursing & Short Term Rehabilitation Whatcom County

Bellingham

Alderwood Health & Rehabilitation Highland Health & Rehabilitation Mt. Baker Care Center North Cascades Health & Rehabilitation Shuksan Health Care St. Francis of Bellingham

58

Blaine

Mount Vernon

Lynden

Mira Vista Care Center

Stafholt Good Samaritan Care Christian Health Care Skagit County

Anacortes

Soundview Rehabilitation

Return to Table of Contents

Life Care Center of Mount Vernon

Sedro-Woolley

Life Care Center of Skagit Valley Island County

Coupeville

Regency Coupeville Rehabilitation and Nursing Center

North Snohomish

Arlington

Arlington Health & Rehabilitation

Marysville

Marysville Care Center Mountain View Skilled Nursing

Stanwood

Saratoga Transitional Rehab - Josephine

Spring-Summer 2024

Active Lifestyles

Senior Activity Centers & Lunch Schedules Address

Phone

On-Site Lunch

Bellingham Senior Act. Cntr. Bellingham

315 Halleck Street

360-733-4030

Mon-Fri

Blaine Senior Center

Blaine

763 G Street

360-332-8040

Mon-Fri

Welcome Senior Center

Deming

5103 Mosquito Lake Rd

360-592-5403

Thursday

Everson Senior Center

Everson

111 W. Main Street

360-966-3144

Mon & Fri

Ferndale Senior Center

Ferndale

1999 Cherry Street

360-384-6244

Mon - Fri

Lynden Senior Center

Lynden

410 Grover Street

360-354-4501

Mon - Fri

Point Roberts Senior Center Point Roberts

1487 Gulf Road

360-945-5424

Wed & Fri

Sumas Community Center

Sumas

461 2nd Street

360-988-2714

Mondays

Anacortes Senior Act. Cntr.

Anacortes

1701 22nd Street

360-293-7473

Mon - Fri

Burlington Senior Center

Burlington

1011 Greenleaf Ave.

360-755-0102

Mon - Fri

Concrete Senior Center

Concrete

45821 Railroad Ave.

360-416-1733

Mon - Fri

La Conner/Maple Center Senior Center

La Conner

104 Commercial St.

360-855-5440

Tuesday

Mt. Vernon Senior Center

Mount Vernon

1401 Cleveland

360-416-1585

Mon - Fri

Sedro-Woolley Senior Ctr.

Sedro-Woolley 715 Pacific Street

360-855-1531

Mon - Fri

Camano Center

Camano Island

606 Arrowhead Road

360-387-0222

Mon/Wed/Fri

Island Senior Resources

Langley

14594 SR 525

360-321-1600

M/Tues/W/F

Oak Harbor Senior Center

Oak Harbor

51 SE Jerome Street

360-279-4580

Mon/Wed/Fri

Orcas Senior Center

Eastsound

62 Henry Road

360-376-2677

Mons & Wed

Mullis Center on San Juan

Friday Harbor

589 Nash Street

360-378-2677

Mon & Wed

Woodmen Hall on Lopez Is.

Lopez

4102 Fisherman Bay Rd 360-468-2421

Tues & Thur

Name

City

Whatcom County

Skagit County

Island County

San Juan County

North Snohomish County Stilly Valley Senior Center

Arlington

18308 Smokey Pt. Blvd

360-653-4551

Mon - Fri

Marysville Community Center

Marysville

1015 State Avenue

360-363-8400

NA

Stanwood Senior Center

Stanwood

7430 276th St. NW

360-629-7403

Mon - Fri

Nutrition Program: Meals on Wheels Whatcom & San Juan

Skagit County

Camano Island

Whidbey Island

360-746-6480

360-419-3420

360-387-0222

360-321-1600, ext 23

VibrantSeniorOptions.com

Return to Table of Contents

59

Information & Assistance

niors and Helping Se ies Make Their Famil Decisions Real Estate !

Since 2003

County

As your Seniors Real Estate Specialist®, I am commi�ed to guiding you through the real estate process with a unique plan that meets your personal needs!

Serving Skagit, Snohomish and King Coun�es

Call for a Free Consulta�on: 206.423.0063

Name

Phone

Information & Assistance Whatcom

Northwest Regional Council Ad - Page 4

360-738-2500

Whatcom

Bellingham Housing Authority

360-676-6887

Whatcom

DSHS/Home & Community Services (Medicaid/care help)

800-239-8292

Whatcom

Opportunity Council

360-734-5121

Whatcom

Veterans Assistance Office

800-827-1000

Whatcom

Whatcom County Council on Aging

360-733-4030

Skagit

Northwest Regional Council Ad - Page 4

360-428-1309

Skagit

Community Action of Skagit County

360-416-7585

Skagit

DSHS/Home & Community Services (Medicaid/care help)

866-608-0836

Skagit

Housing Authority of Skagit County

360-428-1959

Island

Aging & Disability Resources - Camano

360-387-6201

Island

Aging & Disability Resources - North Whidbey

360-675-0311

Island

Aging & Disability Resources - South Whidbey

360-321-1600

Snohomish

Homage Aging & Disability Resources

425-513-1900

60

Return to Table of Contents

Spring-Summer 2024

Announcing our Newest Neighborhood:

Forest Lane

Come Tour and View These Brand New Assisted Living Units Designed for Active Seniors.

Overwhelming joy is a common resident experience as they live and thrive in a vibrant purposeful Christ-centered community with the freedom to actively engage and pursue the things in life that matter most to them. Our new Forest Lane assisted living community is designed for seniors who want to remain active and involved yet require extra help and support with the activities of daily living. Our caring and dedicated staff members provide round-the-clock assistance while encouraging residents to maintain a high level of independence.

Contact us today to learn more: (360) 652-4591 • www.warmbeach.org Warm Beach Senior Community 20420 Marine Drive • Stanwood, WA 98292

A holistic approach to the RightCare Right at Home Northwest

Get the help you need right at home

360-392-3934 Bellingham 360-982-2743 Mt Vernon 360-682-2186 Oak Harbor www.rahnorthwest.com

Services Offered: • Homemaking • Companionship • Physical Assistance • Advocacy • Respite Care • Special Needs Care Locally Owned and Operated

Need Transportation? CARE-E-ME can help!

Professional ~ Reliable ~ Caring

* Medical Appointments * Hospital Discharges * Home Visits

* Social Events * Airport Transfers * Long Distance Transfers

Transportation Hours Mon-Fri 6 am to 6 pm and Sat 8 am to 4 pm Quality Equipment For Your Safety Clean Vehicles For Your Comfort

Office Hours Mon-Fri 8 am to 5 pm Saturday 8 am to 3 pm

www.careeme.com

Kari Anderson, Owner

360-755-3239