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SENIORliving FARRAGUTPRESS THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2013 • 1D

Silver Sneakers offers exercise program to Medicare participants

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Alan Sloan

Gene Wessel, center, with Teresa and Doc Pratt during The Rotary Club of Farragut’s annual Wine Dinner fundraiser Oct. 1 at Fox Den Country Club.

‘Father Rotary’ Wessel reflects on 39 years of service

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ALAN SLOAN asloan@farragutpress.com

The Rotary Club of Farragut’s own “Father Rotary” was instrumental in helping to properly memorialize Rotary International founder Paul Harris.

Gene Wessel, 71, who will celebrate 40 years in Rotary next June, first joined Rotary in 1974 “at a little club called Western Springs Rotary Club, a suburb of Chicago,” he said.

“One of the most interesting projects was back in the mid-80s, we stared what got to be known as the Paul Harris Memorial,” Wessel added. “Paul Harris, who was the founder of Rotary in 1905 [and a Chicago resident], was

buried right there in a local cemetery in Chicago.

“Pretty much existed for years and nothing was done with it. It was just a burial plot, not maintained.”

Doing something about that in the mid-1980s, “About a half-dozen of us formed a [District] committee and we made a memorial out of it with a big walkway and a special, big Rotary monument,” Wessel said. “… We worked on it for two or three years. … We had a designer design the whole thing for us.

“Started a special Memorial Committee and went out and got sponsorships and donations.

See ROTARY on Page 2D

TAMMY CHEEK tcheek@farragutpress.com

Medicare recipients can get in shape with the Silver Sneakers program offered in some Farragut area workout facilities.

The program allows participants to take exercise classes, work out on their own and even provides social activities in some health and fitness facilities.

Some health insurance companies will pay for their Medicare recipients to take part in the program, said Louise Povlin, owner of Anytime Fitness of Farragut.

The program helps keep senior citizens active, she said.

“Certainly, the more you can keep seniors active, the healthier they are,” she said. “When seniors are on a fixed income, this [program] motivates them to stay healthy.”

There are a number of fitness facilities that offer Silver Sneakers workouts; Povlin said her facility is one of those. She said the program is run through Healthy Contributions.

Healthy Contributions is a program in which health insurance providers offer health club fee reimbursement plans to motivate its clients to exercise.

“Every time they swipe their card, information goes to Healthy Contributions, and we

get paid according to their usage,” Povlin said. She noted participants can come in any time they want.

“But, they are really people who want to get in, get a workout and go on with their day,” Povlin said. “We don’t offer much of a social outlet.”

Although offering workouts, Anytime Fitness also does not offer Silver Sneaker classes, Povlin added.

Participants can find that social outlet at the Davis Family YMCA, often called the “Y,” which offers muscle strength and range of movement, cardio and swim classes to Silver Sneakers participants.

“We offer classes five days a week and sometimes twice a day,” said Dot Schubert, senior Silver Sneaker coordinator.

Schubert explained the program is offered in partnership with select health insurance plans at no additional cost to Medicare-eligible members age 65 and older or who are disabled. She said a person needs to contact his or her insurance company to see if it offers Silver Sneakers.

Schubert said each eligible member is entitled to a basic membership at a participating location. The basic membership See SILVER on Page 2D

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2D • FARRAGUTPRESS THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2013

SENIOR LIVING

Tammy Cheek

Becky Polite instructs a Silver Sneakers exercise class at the Davis Family YMCA.

Silver From page 1D

includes classes, guidance from qualified instructors, senior advisors, social activities and use of amenities such as the swimming pools. She said there is no initiation or monthly fees for Silver Sneakers members. However, if a person asks for services not included in the basic membership, they can expect an additional charge.

Schubert noted a person who is not eligible for Silver Sneakers can expect to pay a $44 a month membership fee. A couple can expect to pay $67 a month when not on the Silver Sneakers program.

“We have anywhere from 1,000 to 1,100 signedup members,” Schubert said.

Bill Glenn of Concord Hills is one member of the Y. He said when he turned 65, he heard about Silver Sneakers from his health insurance company. He explained he was in the Advantage program of his insurance carrier.

“It’s good to come in to the Y for zero dollars a month,” he said. “The benefit is good health.

“It’s one of those things, if I had all that equipment at home, it would probably sit there. All I have to do is go down, get in the car and head this way. I’m going to do it,” Glenn said. “It’s great to have a place to go and do something like that.”

Another Silver Sneakers participant, Bob Prohs of Farragut, said he has been in the Silver Sneakers program for three years. Prohs noted he and his wife belonged to the Y for a long time, and

Rotary From page 1D

… Made it a Rotary International project,” he added. “Had a big dedication with the Rotary International president.

“Today’s it’s one of Rotary International’s showplaces right there on the South Side of Chicago.”

As for Wessel’s path to Rotary in 1974, “I had my own business in Chicago, in the commercial printing business — I had my own printing company — and had some friends of mine who were interested in getting into Rotary,” he said. “We all decided it was a good club and an active club. … One of the fellows that I knew was in The Rotary Club [of Western Springs] and he sponsored me.

“Being in Chicago all those years, I was quite involved in the district level, and even with Rotary International,” Wessel added. “Rotary International’s headquarters are right there in Evanston, Ill., which is on the North Side of Chicago. I spent a lot of time with Rotary

when they became eligible for Silver Sneakers, they took advantage of the opportunity.

“We like the classes,” he said.

What are the benefits for Prohs?

“We’ll, I’m alive,” he replied with a smile. He said while they did exercises on their own and with a trainer, the Silver Sneakers classes are more thorough.

Barbara Barnett of Concord said her Medicare plan made the program available to her.

“I joined last January,” Barnett said. “It occurred to me I needed exercise and to be active.”

She said the camaraderie and interaction she experiences with other participants is another benefit of the program.

The exercise offers participants lower blood pressure and better cholesterol levels, helps keep the brain healthy and it improves movement and attitude, Schubert said.

In addition to health benefits, the program also provides a social outlet.

“We plan a lunch once a month,” she said. “We have a Christmas party and some dress up on Halloween or Valentines.”

Participants also enjoy a birthday treat and outings.

“We try to make things as interesting as possible,” Schubert said.

People interested in Silver Sneakers can contact their Medicare providers for information.

International involved in some international projects, Polio Plus being one of them.”

With Western Springs Rotary, “I held about every position possible,” said Wessel, who played basketball at Indiana University, where he graduated with a business administration degree in 1965.

As for landing in the Farragut area, “I had been in the commercial printing business for 25 years and I had property down here out in Tellico Village, back when it started up,” Wessel said. “Had some friends down here who lived in Tellico, they convinced me it was time to semiretire and move down here and enjoy the good life.”

Moving to the area in 1995 after selling his business, “For about five years I semiretired, worked part-time [at various jobs] and did the sightseeing thing,” Wessel said. “Played golf and played tennis and all that good stuff.”

Originally a member of The Rotary Club of Lenoir City, Wessel joined The Rotary Club of Farragut in 2001.

Photos by Tammy Cheek

Top: Barbara Barnett of Concord and Bill Masters work out during a Silver Sneakers exercise class at the Davis Family YMCA. Above: Silver Sneakers participants, from left, Bob Prohs, Bill Masters, Larry Belt and George Burkart, work out during a Silver Sneakers exercise class at the Davis Family YMCA.

“I got the business itch again and ended up buying, over there in Farragut, Homespun Craft & Antique Mall,” Wessel said. “I switched my Rotary membership over to Farragut Rotary Club. Owned that craft mall in Farragut for eight years” before retiring again in 2009.

“Now I’m fully retired and enjoying the good life,” he added.

Tom King, Farragut Rotary president, said Wessel “knows so much about Rotary, has done so much in Rotary through those years long before he even came here.

“He’s someone that you can go to as a resource for anything you need about Rotary, and he’ll know the answer to it,” King added. “… He’s a major part of our Family of Rotary.”

As for getting the title “Father Rotary,” Wessel said it started at Farragut Rotary while seated beside “Mother Rotary,” long-time Rotary contributor and Farragut club member, Joan McIntee.

“I was the oldest member in Farragut Rotary, and all of sudden somebody, and I don’t remember who it was … popped up

and said, ‘You’re older than Joan is, so you’re going to be Father Rotary,’” Wessel said. “Father Rotary stuck with me.”

Wessel said Farragut Rotary “is fantastic. It’s a little unique because of the size: Farragut Rotary is the largest club I’ve ever been a member of; I think we’re pushing 90 now.

“But if something happens with a sickness or an illness or an accident or an injury or something with any member of the club, everybody is right there to help,” Wessel added. “It’s a real close-knit family when it comes to being there for each other.”

Wessel said Rotary “makes you alert to the fact that if you are a success as a businessman in your community, you’ve got to be thankful enough and alert enough to know you didn’t do it on your own. You’ve got to give back to your community, find time to do that. … Rotary teaches you that.”

Wessel has two daughters and three grandchildren.

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FARRAGUTPRESS THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2013 • 3D

Social media no longer just child’s play The Internet and related technologies have been a game-changer for people of all ages. The instant connectivity made possible by these advancements has been valued by young adults and children for years.

But now social media is attracting an entirely different demographic -- seniors.

More than just a method of channeling information to the comfort of home, the Internet and the various social media platforms, including Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram, are ways for older adults to stay connected with friends and family. For seniors faced with mobility issues, social media helps to bring the world to them.

Despite the stereotype that seniors do not want to learn to use new technology, many seniors are getting on board.

Findings from the Pew Research Institute show that social networking use among Internet users ages 50 to 64 grew by 88 percent between April 2009 and May 2010. The research also found that the percentage of those 65 and older using social media grew from 13 percent to 26 percent during that same stretch. Although young adults continue to be the primary users of social media, older users are gaining momentum and surpassing youth in the number of new users.

Individuals who are not yet utilizing social media to manage their communication efforts may be inspired by these benefits to doing so.

• Photo and video sharing: The majority of photos being taken today are digital, as fewer people are making prints of their photos. Rather, they are being shared via email or through social media sites.

Grandparents can see their grandchildren in photos in real time. Also, if they've managed apps that enable video sharing, they can view and chat with relatives who live miles away, just as if they were sitting across the table.

• Conversations with family: In a world where families are no longer central-

ly located, communication may be lacking.

Despite the prevalence of mobile phones, fewer and fewer people seem to pick up the phone and make calls as they once did.

Instead, they're texting and updating social media posts. They're also e-mailing one another. Older adults who have no access to this technology could be left out of the mix. This is a way for seniors to stay close to family.

• Convenient check-ins: At times when a full-blown conversation may not be practical, having a quick method to check in with a loved one can make social media advantageous. Men and women can send a quick text to their parents to find out how they're feeling or if they need anything.

Such ready access can provide some peace of mind to adults concerned about their elderly parents.

• Online shopping: Seniors who don't get out much or who cannot safely drive a vehicle might not be able to shop as often as they would like. Having Internet access and experience with browsing Web sites enables older men and women to shop from reputable Web sites who ship items directly to the house. With the vast array of items now sold online, anyone can have their choice of items and not be forced to settle because of their age.

• Improved feelings of well-being: Avoiding feelings of isolation and loneliness can benefit older men and women. A study

by Dr. Shelia Cotten, a sociologist and associate professor from the University of Alabama, Birmingham, revealed that Internet use was associated with a 30 percent decrease in depressive symptoms among older adults who used it regularly, while other studies have shown similarly impressive results.

• Working the mind: Going online, chatting on social media or simply writing an e-mail works areas of the brain. Typing also helps improve manual dexterity. These factors can be beneficial for seniors looking to stay sharp.

4D • FARRAGUTPRESS THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2013

SENIOR LIVING

Don’t overlook your will Financial expert explains the vital importance of this document Of the trendy terms to come around in the past decade, “bucket list” remains among the most useful, says retirement planning expert Jeff Gorton.

“As a neologism, I hope it endures because it reminds us of how precious our time is – and that it’s important to plan wisely,” said Gorton, a veteran Certified Public Accountant and Certified Financial Planner™, and head of Gorton Financial Group (www.gortonfinancialgroup.com).

“Unfortunately, after some have listed their items and even checked a few things off, they forget about one important item that really counts after they’ve ‘kicked the bucket’ – their will.”

Only about 40 percent of adults in America have a will, which is probably due to people not wanting to be reminded of their own mortality and that life will go on without them, he said.

“But what’s the alternative? If you die without one, the state decides what becomes of your property, without regard to your priorities,” says Gorton, who also advocates his clients make use of a written income plan, a living document that helps organize financial priorities. “Why not enjoy the fact that a will is an instrument of power? You get to decide who gets what.”

Since so many adults don’t have a will, many don’t understand how they work.

Gorton breaks down wills into four basic parts: • Executors — Most wills begin by naming an executor, the person responsible for carrying out the wishes outlined in the will.

Duties include assessing the value of the estate, gathering the assets, paying inheritance tax and other debts if necessary, and distributing assets among beneficiaries. It is recommended that you name at least two

executors in case your first choice is unable to fulfill the obligation.

• Guardians — A will allows you to designate a guardian for your minor children.

Whomever you appoint, you will want to make sure beforehand that the individual is able and willing to assume the responsibility. For many people, this is the most important part of a will since, if you die without naming a guardian, the court will decide who takes care of your children.

• Gifts — This section enables you to identify people or organizations to whom you wish to give gifts of money or specific possessions, such as family heirlooms or a car. You can also specify conditional gifts, such as a sum of money to a young daughter, but only when she reaches a certain age.

• Estate — Your estate encompasses everything you own, including real property, financial investments, cash and personal

possessions. Once you have identified specific gifts you would like to distribute, you can apportion the rest of your estate in equal shares among your heirs, or you can split it into percentages. For example, you may decide to give 45 percent each to two children and the remaining 10 percent to a sibling.

“You’re not legally required to have a professional write a will for you, but I highly recommend you get certified help because these documents are often contested by people who are unhappy with the decisions you made,” he said. “After working a lifetime for your assets, you deserve to have them go where you want after you’re gone, and your family will be grateful to you for not leaving them with the headache of trying to sort out your estate.” ~ Jeff Gorton, CPA, CFP®

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SENIOR LIVING

FARRAGUTPRESS THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2013 • 5D

Keep your marriage going strong The trend of long-married couples calling it quits has been growing. However, there are some steps couples can take to keep their relationships going strong.

According to the AARP, divorces among people over the age of 50 have doubled since 1990. According to Susan Brown, codirector of the National Center for Family & Marriage Research at Bowling Green State University, one out of three Boomers will face their golden years unmarried.

There are a number of reasons why divorce rates have skyrocketed among the over-50 set. Understanding just why these divorces are taking place and taking proactive steps to alleviate some of the divorce triggers can be a recipe for a happy marriage that continues throughout a couple's golden years.

• Increase accountability. Ours is a transient society where families no longer bat an eyelash over moving great distances away from other family members. As a result, Boomers may feel like they are not connected to children or grandchildren.

With this in mind, they may feel less attached to their marriage or their responsibilities or believe that no one will get hurt

by a divorce. Keeping families close and remaining in frequent contact can increase accountability and reduce the propensity for divorce.

• Get things out in the open. A major reason for a failed marriage is years of avoiding significant issues rather than addressing problems. Couples should make time to talk to each other about anything that might be bothering them rather than letting too many things slide. If these conversations turn into shouting matches, there is always the option of bringing in a third party to serve as a mediator.

• Spend time apart. After retirement, couples may find themselves spending hours upon hours in each other's company.

While togetherness can be beneficial, too much time spent together may lead to feelings of suffocation and the perception that each member of the relationship is no longer his or her own person. Individuals can remedy this by doing more things on their own, whether spending time apart with friends or engaging in hobby time without your spouse. After all, absence makes the heart grow fonder. Brief periods of separation can make the time married couples

do spend together feel more meaningful.

• Recommit to your vows. After 30 or more years, the vows you shared on your wedding may be a distant memory. Some people may have different views on the permanence of vows, putting personal happiness ahead of the happiness of the couple.

Take stock of what you promised one another on your wedding day and stick to those words.

• Become a comedian. Laughter has a way of dissolving a tenuous situation. Focus energy on laughing at mistakes instead of pointing blame. Couples can make fun of themselves and resolve to not take things too seriously.

• Act like you're dating. Couples often become complacent after many years of

Thursday, November 21, 2013

marriage. They may forget about the little details that made the relationship fun in the early years. The personal notes and cards and other surprises may fall by the wayside after being together for some time.

Make an effort to go on dates, write love notes and think of what was appreciated by your partners when you were in the dating stage.

• Practice selflessness. Sometimes all that is needed to rekindle a relationship is a selfless act that shows how much you care for your partner.

Couples who are on the fence with regard to divorce can make an effort to improve the relationship rather than simply see divorce as the best option.

6D • FARRAGUTPRESS THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2013

SENIOR LIVING

Shedding pounds after 50 Older adults carrying extra weight might be putting their overall health at risk Losing some weight is a goal for many people regardless of age. While youngsters and young adults might be able to get away with a few extra pounds without suffering any significant consequences, older adults carrying some extra weight might be putting their overall health at considerable risk.

Shedding weight after the age of 50 is not always easy. As a person ages, muscle mass tends to dwindle while body fat has a tendency to increase. Since fat burns fewer calories than muscle, weight gain as a person ages is bound to happen. But that doesn't mean such weight gain is inevitable. In fact, men and women willing to make certain changes with regard to diet and exercise can shed pounds after 50 while preventing future weight gain.

Diet Men and women need fewer calories as they age. For example, men and women in their 40s may need as many as 200 calories more per day than they will when they reach their 50s. Counting calories might seem difficult, so men and women in their 50s and older who don't think they can count calories can try to eat more low-calorie foods like fruits, vegetables and whole grains.

Consuming fewer calories often requires changing dietary habits, not only with regard to what you're eating but also how you're eating and even how you shop for food. Men and women used to dining out for lunch every day can start bringing their own lunches so they can gain greater control of their daily caloric intake. For those who find they're frequently too exhausted to cook each night, they can prepare meals in advance to have healthy, homemade meals waiting instead of always ordering takeout or delivery. When shopping for food, people should avoid doing so on an empty stomach so they're less inclined to buy unhealthy snacks.

Exercise Exercise is another essential component to shedding pounds after 50, though men and women over 50 should always consult a physician before they begin a new exercise regimen. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention points out that regular exercise can help older men and women prevent the onset of a host of ailments, including heart disease and diabetes. In addition, the CDC notes that regular physical activity as one ages helps muscles grow stronger, which increases the chances that an individual will be able to perform necessary daily activities without the assistance of others.

Maintaining that independence into older adulthood is a goal for many men and women, and it's a goal that's far more realistic for men and women who exercise than it is for those who don't.

When coupled with a healthy, low-calorie diet, routine exercise can help men and women over 50 shed extra weight and keep the weight off once it's gone.

According to the CDC, older adults need at least 2 hours and 30 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity, such as brisk walking, every week and musclestrengthening activities on two more days a week. These muscle-strengthening activities should work all the major muscle groups, including the legs, hips, back, abdomen, chest, shoulders and arms.

Muscle-strengthening activities include lifting weights, working out with resistance bands, exercise such as push-ups and sit-ups that use body weight for resistance and yoga. Even gardening that involves digging and shoveling can be considered a muscle-strengthening activity.

Weight gain often is an expected side effect of aging. But men and women don't have to gain weight as they get older.

Some simple dietary changes and a commitment to routine exercise is all it takes to shed weight after 50 and keep that weight off once it's gone.

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SENIOR LIVING

Not your average retirement homes As the Baby Boomer generation enters retirement age, there has been an increased demand for services that meet the needs of this segment of the population. Amenities such as active-living communities that boast top-of-the-line features typically are the first things individuals seek.

Age-restricted, 55-plus communities cater to what the name implies – people who are age 55 and older. However, these home developments are a far cry from what they used to be. Now they rival some of the best resorts in their features and are designed entirely around the needs of a group of active, amenity driven people.

Plus, considering there now are more Americans age 65 and older than in any other point in history, according to the U.S. Census Bureau, developers understand the benefits of catering to this group of people. Therefore, there are more highend active-living communities now than ever before.

There are many choices with regard to active adult retirement communities.

Many of these developments boast everything from detached, single-family homes to villas to condominiums. These residences are built with the active adult in mind. Here are some of the benefits that these communities boast.

Community companionship Due to the age-restricted nature of active-adult-home-developments, the residents are all in a similar age range, and

may have similar interests. At a time in life when friendships from work may waver due to retirement, and older children may be busy with their own lives, these communities can help foster new friendships. Whether through communitysponsored activities or just through home proximity, residents can enjoy one another's company and never worry about feeling lonely into their retirement years.

Low- or no-maintenance living One of the biggest attractions to activeadult living is that these homes are built to provide worry-free living. Included in the home ownership fees are provisions to take care of much of the interior and exterior maintenance. That means should a pipe leak or the lawn needs mowing, maintenance staff rather than the homeowner will handle the problem. This peace of mind enables residents to pursue interests rather than worry about the upkeep on their homes. Many times the community is expertly manicured, helping to create an aesthetically pleasing environment.

Activity-based fun Many communities build activities into the living plan. Therefore, there may be a See COMMUNITIES on Page 11D

FARRAGUTPRESS THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2013 • 7D

8D • FARRAGUTPRESS THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2013

SENIOR LIVING

Volunteer!

Opportunities for those who want to give back, make the most of their retirement Today's retirees recognize that an active retirement tends to be more rewarding than simply sitting around the house, and that attitude is reflected in the vast number of retirees who volunteer with various nonprofit organizations and other programs across the globe. The following are a handful of volunteering opportunities for those retirees who want to give back and make the most of their retirements.

Habitat for Humanity Habitat for Humanity is a nonprofit organization that builds and repairs homes for people in need. It has a program titled "Care-A-Vanners" in which volunteers typically spend two weeks traveling around the United States and Canada in rented RVs (retirees who own RVs may be able to drive their own vehicles) building and restoring homes. Volunteers must pay their own way and bring along their own supplies, such as work shoes, gloves, tool belts and some tools (power tools are typically provided by the local Habitat for Humanity chapter), and free or low-cost RV parking is provided by Habitat for Humanity. Adventurous retirees who enjoy hitting the open road may find "Care-A-Vanners" matches their love of travel with their desire to give back.

Work with children Many retirees, especially those without grandchildren or who live far away from their grandchildren, find volunteering with children to be especially rewarding. The opportunities to work with kids are numerous, and retirees can choose a volunteering opportunity where their own life experiences come in handy. For example, retirees who

worked in the medical field might want to volunteer their time at a local children's hospital, where they can assist families as they cope with a child's illness and spend time with the children themselves, whether's it's tutoring sick children, reading them stories or helping them understand their illnesses.

Retirees with considerable experience in the business world may want to work with a mentoring program that matches them up with careerminded youngsters.

Service vacations Retirement often is seen as a time to travel and see the world, and many retirees have started to combine that love of travel with service opportunities. Globe Aware, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, develops short-term volunteer programs in international environments. Each activity aims to promote cultural awareness and promote sustainability in needy communities. Volunteers work to address issues identified by the host communities as particularly pressing, interacting with the local residents in ways that are often impossible on more traditional vacations.

Meals on Wheels Retirees tend to have their mornings and afternoons free, making them ideal candidates to volunteer with programs such as Meals on Wheels, a nonprofit organization devoted to See VOLUNTEER on Page 11D

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FARRAGUTPRESS THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2013 • 9D

SENIOR LIVING

Financially surviving your golden years Expert offers tips to maximize money for an aging population Americans are living longer these days from an average 47 years in 1900 to more than 78 years as of 2010. We are also experiencing a deluge of adults reaching retirement age now that includes 10,000 Baby Boomers turning 65 every day.

By 2030, when the last of the baby boomers have turned 65, nearly one in five Americans will be retirement age, according to the Pew Research Center’s population projections.

Money will be a big problem for many of them, especially if boomers develop health problems that affect their ability to live independently, said insurance expert and CEO of Life Care Funding, Chris Orestis.

“Life Care Funding created a financial solution for seniors that own a life insurance policy that converts the policy into a Long-Term Care Benefit Plan; this gives the policy owner the option to use their policy while still alive to help pay for their choice of any form of senior care services,” added Orestis, a former insurance industry lobbyist who recently contributed to the federal Commission on LongTerm Care’s fact-finding mission.

“With 30 percent of the Medicaid population consuming 87 percent of Medicaid dollars on long-term care services, we can see that’s not going to be sustainable,” Orestis said. “More individuals will be forced to find their own resources to pay for those needs. That’s why

states such as California, Florida, New York and Texas are embracing legislation requiring seniors to be notified that they can convert their life insurance policy for 30 to 60 percent of its death benefit value. The money can be put into an irrevocable fund designated specifically for any form of care they choose.”

Orestis details more ways in which seniors might handle long-term care and other budgetary issues: • Senior discounts really add up!

Here’s a list of establishments to check out: www.lifecarefunding.com/blog/senior-discounts/. Restaurants, supermarkets, department stores, travel deals and other merchants give various senior discounts with minimum age requirements ranging from 55 to 62.

Some of these places are worth making habits, with 15 percent off the bill at Applebee’s, 30 percent off at Banana Republic and 60 percent off at Food Lion on Mondays! Don’t forget your free cup of coffee at Dunkin’ Donuts if you’re 55 or older, and don’t be shy – at many of these places you’ll have to ask for the discount.

See FINANCE on Page 11D

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10D • FARRAGUTPRESS THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2013

SENIOR LIVING

Know the early warning signs of Alzheimer's Alzheimer's disease is the most common form of dementia. It is a progressive, degenerative disorder that attacks neurons and essentially robs people of their memory and language skills.

Although there is no cure for Alzheimer's, there are therapies that can slow its neurological impact. Recognizing the early warning signs of Alzheimer's can encourage people to begin treatments that can stave off some of the more debilitating symptoms of this disease.

Though it's most common among the elderly, Alzheimer's is not a normal part of aging. The Mayo Clinic says that the reasons behind the inception and progression of Alzheimer's disease are largely unknown. It is believed damage starts a decade or more before problems become evident. Abnormal deposits of proteins begin to form the amyloid plaques and tau tangles throughout the brain, and these formations are the hallmarks of the disease. Once-healthy neurons gradually begin to lose their efficiency and ability to function and communicate with one another. As more neurons die, entire areas of the brain shrink. The hippocampus, which is the area of the brain essential in forming memories, may soon become compromised.

Millions of people in North America are estimated to have Alzheimer's disease and many others will be diagnosed. The following are the most common early signs and symptoms of the disease.

• Memory loss: According to the Alzheimer's Organization, early memory loss can include forgetting important dates or repeatedly asking for the same information. Forgetting recently learned information and having to rely increasingly on memory aids is another potential indicator of Alzheimer's.

• Declining cognition: Impaired reasoning or judgment, trouble finding the right words and visual and spatial issues also may be early indicators of Alzheimer's.

• Difficulty completing familiar tasks: Those with Alzheimer's sometimes have trouble driving to a familiar location or remembering the rules to a favorite game. People who were once good with numbers may now have difficulty balancing their checkbooks, while those who love to cook may have trouble following recipes.

• Time confusion: Another indicator of Alzheimer's disease is losing track of time. One may have trouble understanding something that isn't happening in the present. Alzheimer's sufferers often forget where they are and how they got there.

• Misplacing items: Everyone loses something at a point in time, but those with Alzheimer's may put items in unusual places.

They may sometimes accuse others of stealing when they cannot retrace their steps and find items.

• Decreased judgment: Decision-making abilities may be compromised. A person with Alzheimer's may take unnecessary risks or give away sums of money.

• Mood changes: People with Alzheimer's may suffer from confusion, suspicious feelings, depression and anxiety. A person may upset easily or become anxious outside of his or her comfort zones.

Age and family history of Alzheimer's disease are the biggest risk factors. The liklihood of developing Alzheimer's doubles about every five years after age 65, says the Alzheimer's Organization. In addition, those with a parent, child or sibling who have developed Alzheimer's are more likely to develop the disease than people with no such family history.

A physical and neurological exam, which may include blood tests and brain imaging, will be used to diagnose Alzheimer's disease.

Individuals can learn more by making appointments with their doctors.

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FARRAGUTPRESS THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2013 • 11D

Finance From page 9D

• Long-term care is a matter of survival, so use your best options. The practice of converting a life insurance policy into a Life Care Benefit has been an accepted method of payment for private duty in-home care, assisted living, skilled nursing, memory care and hospice care for years. Instead of abandoning a policy when they can no longer afford the premiums, policy owners have the option to take the present-day value of the policy while they are still alive and convert it into a Long Term Care Benefit Plan. By converting the policy, a senior will remain in private pay longer and be able to choose the form of care that they want but will be Medicaid-eligible when the benefit is spent down.

• Your “last act” may be decades away, so plan accordingly. It makes sense to finally enjoy your money after a lifetime of savings, but be smart about it.

Take time to organize your paperwork and create a master file that holds things such as insurance policies, investments, property, wills and trusts, etc. so you have your financial picture in one place. Also, live smart today and hold off on that new car if you don’t need a new one. If your current car is paid off and you sit tight for an additional two years, you’ll save $7,200 on a new car with $300 monthly payments.

Refinancing your home also may be a very good idea, since rates are still hovering around their all-time lows. Get at least three quotes, compare rates, terms and potential penalties to make sure you’re getting the best deal. Also, live healthy and buy more fruits and vegetables and less junk food to lessen the chance you’ll need long-term care in the future. ~ Chris Orestis

Communities From page 7D

workout room, game center, exercise classes, movie nights and many other attractions to keep residents busy. Activeadult communities may be similar to allinclusive vacations and cruises in that they have their own activities coordinator on staff. Should residents prefer solo activities, the property on which these homes are built often are created with

delivering nutritious meals to those with limited mobility who are unable to prepare their own meals. The program delivers more than one million meals per day across the United States. Many Meals on Wheels volunteers are retirees, who can decide their level of involvement upon

volunteering.

Disaster relief Disaster relief programs may be less predictable than more routine volunteer programs, but retirees often make great volunteers at disaster relief sites. Unlike working professionals who cannot travel to disaster relief sites without ample planning ahead of time, retirees often find the flexibility of retirement allows them to

pitch in when an unforeseen natural disaster strikes and volunteers are needed seemingly overnight. Many disaster relief programs need volunteers who are certified in CPR or have other unique lifesaving skills, but even retirees without such skills can help by handling supplies or by comforting and assisting survivors of natural disasters.

recreation in mind. There can be walking paths or areas for cycling. Pools and spas often are part of the living package as well.

Security Individuals who are no longer bogged down with work requirements may be more likely to take vacations or go visiting.

In a traditional home, there may be worries about leaving the home unattended for a period of time. However, in 55-plus residences, homes may be in gated com-

munities or have security patrols. Also, the sheer number of homes in a townhousestyle building can camouflage homes that currently are vacant, easing the minds of those who are planning on going away.

Concierge services Some of the more exclusive communities may have staff who can help with everything from booking vacations to helping with moving details. There also are developments that offer transitional homes, and someone may be available to

help with the transition from an activestyle home to one that has nursing staff or assisted living offerings at that time in life when it is needed.

Active-living communities offer many of the features that recently retired people seek in homes that do not compromise on amenities. Individuals who are looking for comfortable, maintenance-free homes often seek out these developments for the convenience and services they offer.

Volunteer From page 8D

12D • FARRAGUTPRESS THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 2013

SENIOR LIVING

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