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Publisher's Letter
A Vibrant Greeting to our Spring-Summer Edition Readers!
As the Pacific Northwest starts to remember what “warm weather” means we encourage you to venture outdoors, stretch those legs, and keep moving! We all need to step outside and inhale the sweet, life-giving gift we call oxygen! Yes, that crucial element that makes us all go from "What’s for dinner?" to "I think I can run a marathon!" in one breath. The magic of oxygen is real—without it, well... let’s just say we’d be stuck in a fog (not the kind that makes for picturesque views).
Speaking of fog, let’s talk about relationships. They’re kind of like oxygen, too. The more you have, the more you’re energized—preferably in the fresh air! So, if you’ve been spending too much time indoors, it might be time to clear that mental fog. A simple outing with a friend, whether it’s lounging on a porch or people-watching at a park, is a great start.
If you are one of those overachievers who enjoys ultra-marathons (you know who you are), why not share the joy? Invite a friend or even an acquaintance to join you for a hike, park stroll, or beach day. No need for out-of-country trips. You can literally go to the beach without even getting your passport out.
Favorite Local Destinations
• Whatcom County: Point White Horn Park (near Birch Bay), and Boulevard Park and Whatcom Falls Park in Bellingham
• Skagit County: Northern State Recreation Area near Sedro-Woolley, Rosario Beach to Bowman Bay Trail near Deception Pass/Anacortes
V Vision: Provide a Resource Guide to inform and Magazine articles to inspire!
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 325 locations in the region.
Kirk Blankenship Publisher - Business Director/Sales
Christine Blankenship Publisher - Business Director/Designer
• Snohomish County: Centennial Trail (30 miles of bliss for the walkers and bikers among us)
• Island County: Coupeville and Ebey's Landing National Historical Reserve; Camano Island State Park Loop
• San Juan County: No passport needed here, just a little ferry ..."fairy" magic. Sail to San Juan Island and explore Friday Harbor, the American Camp, English Camp, and Roche Harbor. If you’re feeling adventurous, Mount Constitution on Orcas Island awaits! Not feeling like hiking to the top? No worries—drive to the summit parking lot and take about a 200-yard stroll for a view that makes you feel like an explorer.
If you decide to take a hike at any location, be sure to bring a buddy, some sturdy shoes, and dress for possibly changing weather. Also, pack a first-aid kit, water, snacks, and a phone (for selfies and safety). Be sure to let others know where you are going and when you expect to be back.
Whether you're hitting the trails or chilling at home, make sure to check out the amazing Articles by local authors and our Senior Directories in the Table of Contents (Page 5). They’ll keep you entertained, even if you’re just sipping iced tea on your porch.
Mark Your Calendars for Spring & Summer Events
• Caregiver Conference by Elder Service Providers: Friday, April 25; 7:30 am to 4:15 pm; at the Holiday Inn, Bellingham (Reserve your seat at www.whatcomesp. org/caregivers-conference)
• Whatcom Senior Day in the Park: Wednesday, August 6; 10 am to 2 pm; Hovander Park, Ferndale
• Skagit Senior Day in the Park: Thursday, August 21; 10 am to 1:30 pm; Maiben Park, Burlington
Here’s to the fresh air that makes us feel young again (even if our knees don’t always agree) and relationships that keep us laughing all the way up the mountain (or at least to the summit parking lot).
Kirk & Christine Blankenship, Publishers Vibrant Senior Options
Whatcom Smart Trips
Libby Chenault
Active Transportation is a fun way to get from Point A to Point B, with benefits. Not only is it easy on your wallet and the environment, but it’s also fabulous for YOU! When you walk, bike, or bus to places you need to go, it counts towards the recommended 150 minutes of moderate physical activity we get each week. Staying active improves mood, helps with sleep, and lowers the risk of many diseases. When people retire, they often have the extra time it may take to walk to the store or ride to meet a friend for coffee. Making these short trips without a car is a fresh way to keep moving.
Hop on the Bus
Many are surprised to realize the steps you take to the bus stop count towards the movement you need to stay healthy. If it’s been a while since you’ve ridden a bus, you may also be surprised by the modern features. All WTA buses have ramps to make rolling
on with a wheelchair or walker a breeze. Inside, digital reader boards and a friendly recorded voice announce each stop for easy navigation.
Try the Bus with Friends
If you want to try the bus with some friends, join Smart Trips on a guided bus trip. These mini adventures use the fixed route service to explore all Whatcom County offers. We go on urban adventures to enjoy great food, shops, museums, and Western Washington University. We also explore ways the WTA bus can connect us to the natural environment. From deep forest walking to birdwatching in city parks to learning about marine life at the waterfront, the bus can help us stay in touch with the wild places around Whatcom County.
Need help learning to ride the bus or tips for biking in Whatcom County? Contact Smart Trips for information on guided bus trips and motivational one-on-one bike classes. Visit WhatcomSmartTrips.org or call (360) 756- 8747 to get started.
Fun on Two Wheels
Smart Trips bicycling instructors love to help folks ride with confidence around town. Our one-on-one sessions build your comfort riding with traffic and on trails and bike lanes to make your trips a joy. Many people find that an e-bike extends their biking career. The energy assist helps power through intersections and cruise up hills with ease. We can ride with you on an electric or standard bike to help you update your riding skills, connecting your home to the places you want to go.
If you live in Whatcom County and want to use active transportation to stay healthy, engaged, and independent, check out Smart Trips for inspiration and encouragement and to register for our Free classes and trips.
You can find more details at www.WhatcomSmartTrips.org or gives us a call at 360-756-8747.
Libby Chenault Smart Trips Education Coordinator
Thriving Moving Forward
Debbye Omlie
Is It Possible to Thrive Instead of Decline?
Weneed a new conversation around aging that includes the word “thriving.” In this period of history, we are in an aging revolution. We are living longer.
It’s time to re-imagine aging as a period of thriving instead of declining.
We can’t stop aging but we can control how we age. Otherwise, we are leaving much of our lives in the hands of fate.
Most people agree that “healthy” is important. But how exactly does “healthy” happen? And what does “healthy” really involve? I propose most people don’t know what healthy means in today’s world, let alone how to control their health. I didn’t.
I am not a celebrity or a medical professional, just someone who found a way (in my sixties) to thrive more than decline. I drew a line in the sand and said, “No More!”
Losing my family to cancer and Alzheimer’s disease (lifestyle-related chronic diseases that could have been avoided), I knew there had to be a better way to age.
It was time for me to rethink the entire aging process. And my research began.
You don’t have to be a victim of the: aging process, the Standard American Diet, or the American lifestyle. Instead, you hold the power to age, thriving one day at a time.
You have control over the small choices you make every day:
• What you eat and drink
• Your thoughts and how you react to stress
• The amount of quality sleep you get
• How and when you exercise
• Your friends and support group
• Your environment
• Living out your purpose
I also learned that your genes constitute only up to a 20% risk of inherited disease(s). How we decline is up to us.
As a result of my research and the subsequent changes I have made, I lowered my cholesterol to a healthy range within six months. My biometric numbers steadily improved, so much that one of my doctors commented he wished he had them. I cleared up migraines and digestive issues that harassed me for years. I lost over 30 pounds and have kept it off nine years later.
And I continue to feel the best I have ever felt, with enormous energy. And I am healthier and fitter than in my forties.
So, while it is tempting to blame genetics, the medical establishment, or anything else, it is best to be honest.
What is holding you back from living the healthiest and best life you can have?
Debbye Omlie
Debbye is passionate about health and wellness and has worked in numerous health organizations. She co-wrote the book Thriving Moving Forward: A Guide to Healthy Aging which can be found at www.debbyeomlie.com Omlie earned a Master of Mass Communication degree from Arizona State University, Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication.
What to Know Before Buying a Hearing Aid
Larry Wonnacott
As a senior, you are very likely to have some degree of hearing loss. It may not be noticeable, or it may be interfering with your (and/or your family’s) enjoyment of life. If your loss is significant, Hearing Aids are the best treatment. However, hearing aids are expensive! So before investing in them, here are some tips from a team of pros:
Your Hearing Evaluation
Make an appointment to have your hearing formally evaluated. A convenient, free, first step is to find your “Hearing Number” online (www. hearingnumber.org). If your number shows the need for an aid, visit an Audiologist or Hearing Instrument Specialist (“HIS”) and have your hearing formally assessed. It’s painless and Medicare generally covers the cost. This is a critical first step – skip it at your peril.
Understand your unique Audiogram. Ask the Audiologist/HIS to explain the results of your assessment (an “Audiogram”). They should help you understand why you struggle to hear in some situations and how hearing aids are designed to help. They should also explain the shortcomings of hearing aids, so you have realistic expectations.
Understanding Hearing Aids
Understand why a specific solution is recommended. There are many hearing aid brands, and each has multiple styles and models. Why is a certain one being recommended? What makes it the best for you? How does its price compare with the next best alternative? Would a larger form factor offer better features?
Understand the Trial Period and Other Policies. By Washington State law, you have a
minimum of a 30-day trial period during which you can return the aid(s). Understand the specifics of this and any other terms of the sale. Make certain all of this is in writing. Most importantly during this period, YOU MUST WEAR your new aid(s) and return for necessary adjustments. As you wear them consistently, your brain will adjust to the sounds you hear. But if you don’t, you will have wasted your money. Like your eyeglasses, hearing aids do not work in the dresser drawer!
Consider your lifestyle when deciding upon other features. Today’s hearing aids have many features that make them more helpful when connecting to your smartphone (Bluetooth is essential, ideally “Auracast-ready™”) or to assistive listening systems installed in public venues (a circuit called a “telecoil”). Be certain to discuss these options with your Audiologist/ HIS. They should teach you to use these features and the smartphone “app” that likely accompanies your new aids.
We are Here to Help
The Hearing Loss Association of America – Northwest Washington Chapter has a more detailed “Buyer’s Checklist” at www.hearinglossnwwa.org. Our mission is to open the world of communication to those with hearing loss and their families by providing Education, Information, Advocacy, and Support.
Larry Wonnacott, President Hearing Loss Association of America Whatcom County Chapter www.hearingloss-whatcom.org 360-656-6457
Checking My Marbles
Linda Jinkens
You know you are aging when you get “cognitive tests” at your doctor’s office. They want to see if your marbles are all there.
I noticed this started happening about the time I turned 70. I was shocked, but tried not to look shocked when the medical assistant walked in, smiled, and said, “I need to give you a test.”
“What kind of a test?” I felt a few quivers in my stomach.
The young woman shrugged. “Oh, nothing big. Easy. Ten questions. That’s it.”
Oh, great. Ten questions. How long had it been since I’d had a test? 40 years ago? “OK, ready, shoot,” I said, trying to sound as confident as any 50 or 60-year-old. After all, I was sure I didn’t look over 60 . . . .well, not over 65, at least.
“Remember these three unrelated words, and at the end of the questions, I will ask you to repeat them back in order.”
Yikes! What? Remember words? And in order? This sounded like a nightmare!
Listen, ask me about diving under my school desk during the Cold War. Or listening to President John F. Kennedy on TV. How about Bullwinkle the Moose or Rocky the Flying Squirrel? Or ask me details about who performed at Woodstock. No problem, my memory is sharp as a tack. Quick on the draw.
While I agonized over the three words, I nearly missed the first question. “What is your name?”
Ha ha. No brainer. Easy.
“Where do you live?” Easy peasy. “Which county do you live in?” Well, duh.
But then she handed me two sheets. “Copy
this geometric drawing onto your paper.” No problem normally, but I was shaky trying to remember the three words from earlier. Did she say “tree”? Did she say “number”? What was the last word?
A bad moment came when she asked me the year. I almost forgot the year had changed. “2024 . . . . no, 2025.” Now what were the three words?
Finally, she said, “OK, what were the three words I gave you? Give them to me in order.”
Feeling sweat on my brow, my hands clammy, and my stomach in knots, I slowly gave them to her, hoping for the best. She nodded, “Good! 100 percent!” She wrote something down, as I almost collapsed in the office.
Whew, I still had my marbles.
The assistant left, and my doctor walked in. After greetings, she took out a sheet of paper. “Linda, have we gone over end-of-life issues, yet?
End of life? “Uh no, I don’t think so,” I said slowly. “What were you thinking about?” My gosh, I must look ancient, I thought. First, a test, and now end of life. I must look like I have one foot in the grave. I felt my body slump.
“Well, let’s say you are outside our clinic and suffer a sudden heart attack. Would you want to be resuscitated?”
I saw she had a straight face. This was not a joke. “Are you kidding?” I asked. “Yes, of course, I want to be revived! I’m not ready to kick the bucket, yet!” Trying to be funny. She didn’t smile one bit. Just jotted something down. I figured she wrote “Patient says to resuscitate if suffers cardiac arrest.”
Feeling drained after my appointment, I drove home. “Ron,” I said to my husband, “I passed my test! 100 percent! I’m smarter than you think!”
Ron said, “What kind of a test?”
“Personal questions.” Ron said, “Like what?”
I said, “Well, like my name, my city, my county . . . .”
Ron snorted loudly. “Wow, that’s not much of a test. Anyone should be able to do that.”
Then I added, “Well, I had to remember three unrelated words and repeat them later.”
“Really?” Now Ron looked surprised. “And you could remember them? What were they?”
I paused. My mind had gone into cold storage. “Well, don’t expect me to remember them now!”
Ron rolled his eyes. “Yes, dear.”
Linda Jinkens is a freelance writer and a former high school teacher. She enjoys baking bread, playing the piano, and her seven grandchildren.
Who Needs Joint Replacement Surgery?
Dr. Christopher Sheu
The most common joint replacement procedures are hips and knees. However, ankles, shoulders, elbows and wrists can also be replaced. Dr. Christopher Sheu explores all that’s involved in a joint replacement.
Q: Do I Need a Joint Replacement?
A: As we age, a great deal of wear and tear occurs to our knees, hips, shoulders, elbows, ankles and wrists. Sometimes an incident of trauma — sports injury, vehicle accident — can result in having joint problems even sooner. Genetic factors can also contribute to joint deterioration.
For any of these situations, joint replacement surgery is a viable option. Surgical techniques and joint implants have progressed significantly over the last 10 to 20 years, allowing individuals faster recovery and less pain.
Q: What’s Involved in Joint Replacement Surgery?
A: When a joint begins to fail, the primary complaints include pain, weakness, and decreased function and/or range of motion. Depending on the joint, some patients also experience instability, locking and catching. When these symptoms become debilitating, it’s time to consider joint replacement surgery. We perform most of these surgeries in an
outpatient surgery center where patients can return home the same day.
This can typically be done through a minimally invasive procedure, with a small incision. Taking care to preserve the surrounding soft tissue, we remove the damaged joint surfaces and replace them with a prosthetic joint.
Following the surgery comes a time of recovery, where our physical therapy care team works with patients to regain their motion and strength and return to their full capacity. Physical therapy regimen varies depending on which joint has been replaced.
Q: How Do I Get Back to the Activities I Love?
A: Many come to me and say, “Why didn’t I do this sooner?” Most patients remark upon their increased motion, decreased pain and freedom to get back to the activities they love doing.
I think it’s really important to keep people informed of the advancements in medical technology that are helping patients recover faster, do more and stay more active.
Christopher Sheu, MD, FAAOS, CAQSM, practices Orthopedics & Sports Medicine at Skagit Regional Health. He is double board certified and sees patients at Skagit Regional Health - Mount Vernon Surgery Center. See Website
Fiduciaries
Fiduciary:
as
of an
plan. A fiduciary can
as the trustee of the
Durable Power of Attorney/DPOA - A fiduciary can be designated as agent under durable power of attorney to manage financial affairs in the event of
cognitive
or incapacity. Engaging a Fiduciary ensures that the individual’s intentions and wishes are honored. (Contributed by Profiducia)
Financial Focus:
Inflation-Fighting
Strategies for Retirees
Article Provided by Edward Jones
At different times, inflation may be high or low but except in rare periods of deflation, it’s always with us. During your working years when you may receive boosts in your salary, you have the potential to keep up with inflation, but what happens when you retire? As a retiree, what can you do to cope with the rising cost of living? Here are a few suggestions:
Keep Some Growth Potential in Your Investment Portfolio
During your retirement years, you may want to move a portion of your portfolio toward a more conservative approach by owning investments that offer significant protection of principal, however these investments offer little in the way of growth which means they are susceptible to inflation. To help mitigate the impact of inflation, you'll want to keep some of your portfolio in growth-oriented investments such as stocks and stock-based securities.
Consider Inflation-Adjusted Bonds
You might want to consider Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities (TIPS), which are indexed to the Consumer Price Index, so the principal increases with inflation and decreases with deflation. Another inflation-adjusted Treasury security to consider is the I bond, which differs from TIPS in that the principal doesn’t change but the interest rate does, every six months, based on a combination of a fixed interest rate and the inflation rate. Like all
investments, TIPS and I bonds have various features and risks of which you should be aware before investing.
Don’t Hold Too Much Cash
During your working years it’s a good idea to have an emergency fund containing several months of living expenses in liquid, low-risk accounts. When you’re retired, a good strategy is to have up to one year’s worth of expenses in such a fund. Be mindful about holding too much in cash, as it will lose purchasing power each year due to inflation.
Think About Extending Your Employment
If you like what you do, you might want to consider working a few years longer than you had originally intended. Not only will you be bringing in more income, but you could also continue to contribute to retirement accounts, including your IRA and 401(k). Even if you don’t want to continue working full time, you could do some part-time work or consulting.
You can’t control the cost of living, but by implementing some of the strategies described above, you can help yourself mount a defense against the effects of inflation during your retirement years.
This content is provided by Edward Jones for use by Aubrey Wilson, your Edward Jones Financial Advisor at 360-588-4548.
For
12th Street
WA 98221
607 Murdock St Sedro Woolley, WA 98284 360-588-4548
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 they must choose which plan type they would like. Typically, individuals become eligible at the age of 65. However, individuals under the age of 65 with certain disabilities may also be eligible.
Sign up for Medicare:
• Three months prior to your birth month, in your birth month, or three months after
• Annual Enrollment Period: Oct 15 - Dec 7 if you are already on Medicare
• Open Enrollment Period: Jan 1 - Mar 31 - Medadvantage members can make a change
• Special Enrollment Period: You are eligible to make a plan change if you have moved or have a change in Medicaid/Medicare status
Top Five Things to Do Before You Sell Your Home
Carmen Andrew
If you've been keeping an eye on the real estate market over the past few years, you've likely noticed many changes, from loan interest rates to renovation costs. However, the essential steps for selling your home haven’t changed much. Here are the TOP 5 THINGS you must do
BEFORE Selling Your Home:
Call Your Trusted Real Estate Professional
Whether you’re selling in a few weeks, months, or years, involving your Realtor early is crucial. They can walk through your
home to advise on necessary upgrades or repairs, which is typically a free service. Many sellers mistakenly assume they need to make expensive improvements, but your Realtor can help you avoid unnecessary costs and guide you to reliable, cost-effective contractors. Their connections can save you both time and money.
Make Your Plan
Decide where you’re moving—locally or out of state? Are you downsizing? Do you have a Realtor connection in your new area? Many Realtors, including us, have a wide network of trusted professionals in both the U.S. and Canada who specialize in senior real estate. If you need extra time in your home after selling, your agent can help coordinate that too. Share your timeline with your Realtor so they can help ensure a smooth transition.
Start Decluttering & Organizing
Tackle one room, closet, or drawer at a time. Begin with items you rarely use, deciding whether to keep, donate, or pass them on to family. Don’t wait until the last minute to declutter—it’s much easier to do gradually. Your Realtor may also be able to refer you to a professional organizer if needed.
Finish Unfinished Projects
We all have projects that never got completed. Before selling, ensure any unfinished work is done so the home is qualified for bank financing for the next buyer. Ask your Realtor for recommendations for handymen or contractors who can help get things finished.
Check Your Attic and Crawl Spaces
In the Pacific Northwest, attics and crawl spaces are common trouble spots, often with critters, mold, mildew, or standing water. Address these issues before listing your home to avoid costly surprises during the inspection. Inspect these areas yourself or hire a professional to ensure everything is in good condition.
If you don’t have a trusted real estate professional, ask for referrals from family and friends, or give us a call to help you connect with someone great in your area.
Carmen Andrew, Managing Broker Office: 360-312-5151 Mobile: 360-393-0767 www.weitzelhometeam.com
Vibrant Senior Options Resource Guide Magazine is published twice per year and comes out in April and October. Subscriptions start when the next edition is published. The next edition can be mailed to you after we have received your subscription information and payment.
1-Year Subscription is $9 (2 editions)
2-Year Subscription is $16 (4 editions)
Glossary: Home Support
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 28.
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 32.
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 34.
Life Changing Service
"There's no place like home"
Hospice Serving: Snohomish County
Many patients and their families find reassurance in the idea of receiving care at home, where they can remain surrounded by the people and things they love. Home leads to a smoother recovery journey, with fewer obstacles along the way. Each member of our team shares responsibility and contributes to the treatment plan, to delivering the highest quality services with compassion and respect.
We take great pride in our patient care and strive to be the best provider in the communities we serve.
Clear the Clutter for Safety and Peace of Mind
Susie Landsem
Start in the Kitchen. The kitchen, the heart of the home, is where community action happens. It's a shared space that can quickly get filled with things that do not belong on the counters, are left on the floor, or don't get put away, leading to potential hazards. Recognizing and addressing these dangers is crucial for the safety of your home. Clearing the clutter adds instant safety and peace of mind.
Knives, hot pans, slippery floors, and spills are just some of the opportunities for accidents in a cluttered kitchen. For instance, a knife hidden under a pile of papers can lead to a severe cut, or a spill obscured by clutter can cause a slip and fall. Bacteria and food borne illnesses from dirty sponges and dishes left in the sink are more likely in a cluttered kitchen.
Counters and Things That Don't Belong
You can start making your kitchen safer by putting away the things that don't belong on the counters. These items include spices, oils, hobbies, and mail. The safest counters are free of any objects because there are no risks of hidden danger. Small appliances can fill up
counter space, too. Try removing everything from the counter. Find a space in drawers, cabinets or the pantry that is easily accessible.
A Clean Floor is the Safest Floor
A clean and clear floor is the safest floor. A clutter-free floor reduces the risk of tripping and slipping, makes it easier to see and clean up spills, and reduces the risk of bacteria and food borne illnesses.
The Danger of Small Rugs
Small rugs are dangerous anywhere in the home, especially in the kitchen and bathroom. They are tripping and slipping hazards and get dirty fast, adding germs to your home. If you have one, please ensure it has a rubber backing. The rubber wears out over time; make sure to check it regularly. Avoid tassels and fringe. Keep the rug and floors clean.
Papers, Mail, Keys and Baskets
Papers, mail, and keys can fill a counter quickly. They may be hiding cords, knives, and spills. You can regain control and organization in your kitchen by finding a designated place for these items off of the counter, such as keys in a dish or hanging rack by the door. Toss out old papers and find a basket or box for the ones to keep. Is it hard to get motivated? There are lots of baskets and containers that are attractive and useful. Find some that will inspire! Clear the counters and floors to give you peace of mind that the heart of your home is safe.
Susie Landsem provides design and building solutions for people who want to stay in their homes safely and independently. Contact@aginginplacebydesign.com www.aginginplacebydesign.com
County Name Ad Page City Phone
Affordable Housing
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.
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.
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
Salem Village II 2601-2617 N LaVenture Rd 360-540-1438
Discover how we make every moment count , where dignity and respect are at the heart of everything we do.
♥ Award-winning SPARK activity program
♥ Exceptional Community Living
♥ Excellent Dining!
♥ Social Outings and Scenic Drives
Call 360-279-2555 to learn about our SPARK Montessoriinspired program or to schedule a tour.
171 SW 6th Ave
Oak Harbor, WA 98277
HomePlace Memory Care at Oak Harbor provides an enriched, meaningful living experience.
Cuddles and Pooh Bear
Christine Blankenship
It is early March, and as I think about writing something that says “Summer” for this edition, the first thing that comes to mind is... Grandchildren! That is right — reflections on a summer afternoon last year with my threeyear-old granddaughter and ten-month-old grandson. What can we do that is fun and keeps them “out of trouble?”
I’ve always loved reading with children, and last summer, our granddaughter was into Pooh Bear — you know, the orange bear "all stuffed with fluff!” We read many books, often turning each page into a game of “I Spy.” A favorite board book of our ten-month-old grandson was called Roar! Roar! (Dorling Kindersley) He was more entertained by all the goofy sounds Grandma can make with each page. The philosopher Francis Bacon once said, “Some books are to be tasted, others to be swallowed, and some few to be chewed and digested... with diligence and attention.” Well, our grandson took to the “taste and chew” part — but not the way Bacon had in mind.
Now, what is more essential to summertime and children than exploring outdoors? We started in the garden, where my three-yearold granddaughter was not so interested in
the plants but rather in jumping from paver to paver. And honestly, I must agree — it’s incredibly fun! Meanwhile, the crawling boy had to taste the dirt. Couldn’t he have enjoyed the leafy lettuce instead? My goal: keep him out of trouble. Mission: somewhat accomplished.
Next, we got two big buckets, filled them with water, and hauled out the bathtub toys. It was hot and sunny, so this water play was a hit. Of course, they got into a “playful” water fight. That worked well to get the rest of the dirt off the little guy’s cheeks.
After we were wet and cooled off, I passed him off to Grandpa for more entertainment and Grandma's rest. They headed off to the toddler swing, where Grandpa kept him safely buckled in and happy. Meanwhile, the threeyear-old had a blast “washing dishes” at her bucket. I wonder if that will still be fun when she is 13?
Soon we headed inside for the ten-monthold to “digest” another book and take a nap. As for the granddaughter, she does not nap anymore. With Grandma time to herself, we circled back to cuddles and Pooh Bear.
Christine Blankenship, Publisher Vibrant Senior Options
Amy's Place - A Community Hub at Bellis Fair Mall
Judy Davis
Dementia Support Northwest, a Bellingham-based nonprofit with over 42 years of service, is excited to announce the opening of Amy’s Place, a new community hub in Bellis Fair Mall. Scheduled to open this spring, Amy’s Place will offer a variety of services aimed at supporting individuals and families affected by dementia, establishing it as a key resource for the community.
Support, Screenings, and Respite Care
The 4,700-square-foot space at Amy’s Place will house support groups, memory screenings, educational training, and respite services. A key feature of Amy’s Place is the provision of up to five visits of two-hour, free respite care for families. This provides caregivers a muchneeded break while their loved ones engage in stimulating activities and social interaction. This service is designed to support caregivers and improve their well-being, helping them maintain balance and avoid exhaustion.
Amy's Place - Accessible Community Hub
Amy’s Place is strategically located within Bellis Fair Mall, making it easily accessible to the
community. Its proximity to the mall’s opening hours is especially beneficial for local mall walkers who use the space for morning exercise, creating additional opportunities for community engagement.
Training to Support Individuals Living with Dementia
In addition to the traditional services Dementia Support Northwest offers, Amy’s Place will offer training for local retailers and mall staff, helping businesses better support individuals and families living with dementia and creating a more inclusive atmosphere in the community.
Northwest Regional Council
At Dementia Support Northwest we are also pleased to announce our partnership with Northwest Regional Council, which will have part-time staff on-site at Amy’s Place to offer their resources and support to families and caregivers. This collaboration will further enhance the services provided and ensure that individuals and families have access to a broader range of support.
A New Chapter
The opening of Amy’s Place marks an exciting new chapter for our community. With its expanded services, Amy’s Place will provide more comprehensive social respite and support to families, strengthening its connection to the community and continuing its mission of supporting individuals and caregivers affected by dementia.
Dementia Support Northwest looks
forward to welcoming families to Amy’s Place beginning this spring! This community hub is committed to ensuring that everyone who lives with dementia has the resources, support, and opportunities they need.
Judy Davis
Dementia Support Northwest 360-671-3316
Director@dementiasupportnw.org www.dementiasupportnw.org
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