sitemanagerwpmanagerio, Author at Raintree Village

Do you still live where you grew up as a child? Chances are you don’t–only 42% of Americans live in or near their hometown. So as your parents get older and need medical assistance and support, you have a difficult choice: do you move them closer to you or leave them where they are? This

Are Medicare and Medicaid the Same Thing?

April 8, 2022

In 2020, over 297 million people had health insurance in the US. This number is a drastic increase from the previous decades. However, over 30 million people are still without essential health benefits, making up nearly 10% of the country. Since 1965, both Medicare and Medicaid have helped retirees and low-income families get the covered

Where to Find Senior Living Community Reviews

March 9, 2022

Over the last couple of years, you have found yourself doing more work than usual to help your aging loved ones. You’ve decided it’s time to look for a senior living facility, but you aren’t sure who to trust. Use this guide to learn about the two types of websites to find reviews and how

How to Spot Phone Scams

March 4, 2022

Americans lost $29.8 billion between 2020 and 2021 from phone scams. These threats are highly manipulative and make it impossible to recover your money. While these people can trick you into giving them your money, they cannot force you. But how do you know if someone is trying to scam you? Use this helpful guide

2021’s Best Gifts for Seniors

December 17, 2021

There are thousands, if not millions, of options available every holiday shopping season. The sheer number of great gift ideas is overwhelming. You know you need to get something that can make life easier for your senior, but you don’t know what to get them. Here are four thoughtful gift ideas focused on safety, independence,

Why Moving to Senior Living During the Winter Is a Great Idea

November 4, 2021

Winter is one of the most challenging times of year for everyone. While it’s a great opportunity to travel and see family for the holidays, the changes in weather create unsafe conditions for everyone. Seniors suffer the most in the winter because of the cold and isolation. Pivotal Health Care’s senior living communities directly meet

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5 Warning Signs of Dementia You Need To Know

How to tell if your memory loss is normal or a sign of Alzheimer’s

The term “senior moment” was aptly coined because the truth is we get forgetful as we age. This is a completely normal part of being an aging human, and shouldn’t be an immediate cause for concern. Unless memory loss is extreme or persistent, it is not considered a sign of Alzheimer’s.

It’s important to remember that memory loss can be caused by numerous situations and diseases. Even if you aren’t concerned its dementia, it could be worth chatting with a doctor to see if your memory loss is a symptom of something treatable.

Common causes of memory loss in seniors include:

Aging – change of hormone levels, physical deterioration, decreased blood flow
Medication side effects
Stroke
Dehydration
Stress
Grief
Depression
Alcoholism
Nutritional deficiency

If you’ve ruled out the above but can’t shake the feeling your memory loss is more serious than simple aging, keep reading. We’ve compiled 5 of the most common signs of dementia. Hopefully, this list will put you at ease, but if the more severe examples sound like you or a loved one, it is a good idea to meet with a doctor for a proper diagnosis.

Potential Warning Signs of Dementia:

1) Memory loss that impedes function in daily life

Short term memory loss, misplacing objects, and struggling to complete everyday tasks can all be signs of dementia.

Aging seniors sometimes find themselves forgetting the name of a person they just met, losing their keys, or fumbling with their internet browser because they’ve forgotten how it works.

With normal forgetfulness, these memories will come back to you later once you’ve retraced your steps or jogged your memory with a sticky note.

There is cause for concern, however, if you are consistently finding yourself forgetting details about your life or how things work. People who have dementia find that they are dependent on other people or memory tools to function day-to-day.

2) Increase in poor decision-making

Poor decision-making certainly isn’t a trait uniquely attributed to those with dementia, it is a problem that can plague all ages.

This can be an indication of a more serious condition, however, when the poor decision-making is a personality change or if the poor decisions are extreme. Suddenly losing consistency with hygiene or making highly irresponsible financial decisions can be signs of dementia.

3) Difficulty with communication

This goes beyond the common feeling of trying to grasp an evasive word. If something feels like it’s on the tip of your tongue, it probably is.

Questions of dementia come into play when someone has trouble following a conversation. They lose track of where they are in the discussion, either by skipping important elements of the topic or repeating themselves without awareness. They can also have a hard time with vocabulary, both by forgetting common words or simply using incorrect words.

4) Confusion with time or place

Forgetting what day of the week it is or why you went into the kitchen are examples of a normal memory fault. These little memory hiccups usually resolve themselves when the answer comes back to you a few minutes later.

A sign of dementia is when you lose track of what year it is, don’t recognize the passing of seasons, or get confused by timelines. Experiencing the past as the present or displaying confusion if things aren’t happening immediately are common behaviors of a person with dementia.

5) Change of personality

There can be many causes for a change in personality, and many of them are common amongst seniors and have nothing to do with dementia. While not the most definitive sign of dementia, it is important to keep an eye on behavioral change when it happens alongside memory loss.

Because of the difficulty in holding a conversation, the challenge of remembering the rules of a game, or the frustration with not being able to remember how to navigate simple daily tasks, people with dementia can often withdraw from family, friends, and hobbies. Fear, anxiety, depression, paranoia, and confusion can also accompany dementia.

So, what do you do if you recognize some of the more indicative signs of dementia in your behavior or the behavior of someone you love? It is important not to delay in meeting with a doctor. Early detection is important in diagnosing Alzheimer’s. Bring someone along with you who can offer support, but who can also help you make sense of what is being discussed. Whether or not dementia is diagnosed, it is worth getting a definitive answer from a medical professional if you’re concerned.

Technology for Seniors

Technology is such a large part of life these days. We are spoiled for choice, and often the noise of too many options can be overwhelming. The tech space is producing some real benefits for people of all ages.

Seniors now have access to devices and apps that improve social connections and cognitive function, as well as keeping them safe and giving a hand with little things that can sometimes be a challenge as we age.

Take a look at the list below, which has curated some beneficial technology options for seniors. While this list isn’t exhaustive, it can get you started navigating the world of tech and discovering for yourself the many ways it can improve your daily life.

Smartphone / Tablet

The features of the smartphone and tablet go way beyond phone calls and emails. There are endless apps that can be downloaded, many of which are free. There are also settings on these devices that allow you to set your text to a larger setting, as well as a voice-to-text feature that types what you speak if your hands are unsteady with the keyboard.

Magnifying Glass with Light – hover it over text and read the larger words on your screen. Perfect for restaurant menus with tiny text.
Pill Reminder by Medisafe – reminds you to take medication and sends alerts to caregivers if a dosage has been missed.
Kindle – download your favorite books on the screen. You can zoom in, highlight, and take notes as well.
GPS – the maps feature can help you find your way home if you’ve gotten lost taking the scenic route. You can also share your location with friends and family.
Words With Friends – Scrabble for the screen. Get your friends an family on the app as well and play each other.
Duolingo – learn one of many languages on offer and keep your brain sharp.
Memory games – there are endless options here, but these can help maintain and improve cognitive function.
Social Media – pick your poison here, popular ones to connect with family and friends are facebook and instagram.
Facetime – a call feature that allows you to video chat with loved ones. Great for feeling close when you’re far away.

Medical Alert Systems

A medical alert system is often a wearable necklace or bracelet that is connected to a cellular or home line. These systems give you the ability to alert a call center, 911, or family member in the case of an emergency with the click of a button. There are many offerings of this service depending on your lifestyle and needs.

Video Games

Video games are not just stationary any more: they can get you up and moving! Nintendo Wii, Dance Dance Revolution, and Guitar Hero are some of the more popular games that actually interact with your movements in the real world. Get up and exercise, dance, play a game of golf, or play the guitar solo of a popular song and see your results on the screen.

Fitbit

A Fitbit is a bracelet that will help you stay on top of your exercise goals. Some features of these activity trackers are counting steps taken, calories burned, and sleep quality. Smartwatches also have these features if you want a watch that can do even more.

Roomba

The Roomba is a hands-free circular vacuum cleaner that cleans the floor all by itself. This is a great idea if your back gives you trouble when you bend over to do the vacuuming.

Ride-sharing

Ride-sharing apps allow you to call a ride to your exact location through it’s GPS services. It saves your payment details so there is no exchange of money at the end of the ride. You can read reviews on the drivers before you get in the car and share your moment-by-moment location with friends and family in transit. There are starting to be endless phone apps for ride-sharing, and it’s hard to know which is better. Uber and Lyft still seem to be the most popular, so it’s best to see which one has the most options in your town.

TV Ears

This technology is for seniors that have a hard time hearing the television. Think of these as personal headphones that allow you to hear the television at your own volume. You set the sound to the level that makes you comfortable without having to disrupt your family or neighbors with your television on too loud.

Nixplay

This is a digital photo frame that is connected to a smartphone app. It allows you to send photos from your phone to the frame. The frame, which you can set up anywhere in your house, rotates through the photos. You can also have friends share photos to your Nixplay device. If you aren’t savvy with smartphones, have a friend or family member set up an account on your behalf. This can be a great way for the family to send photo updates to you through a picture frame in your own home.

If reading this has inspired you to infuse a little more tech into your life, be sure you do some homework in picking out the right product and service. And if you are new to the tech world, please read through our tips to avoid senior scams. Technology is full of possibilities, and being informed helps you enjoy your tech safely.

Being a Good Neighbor in Senior Living Communities

Tips for a happy, healthy relationship with your fellow seniors

Senior communities are a great place to make connections, age in place, and feel a sense of safety and ease navigating daily life and healthcare regimes. But to get the most out of what senior living has to offer, it’s important to note that you have to do some of the work. Social isolation can be a common occurrence in senior living communities, which can lead to more concerning problems than simple boredom. Social isolation has been linked to depression and more rapid advancement of the illness.

So how do we counteract this to make sure your senior living experience matches the promises of the brochure? Well, like anything in life, you get out of something what you put into it. It may be time to make sure you are doing everything you can to be a good neighbor.

Whether you live in independent living, assisted living, or a healthcare community, many of the opportunities we’ve provided for great neighbor interaction will apply to you. Take a look and freshen up on what it takes to be a friendly neighborhood resident!

Read the rules

There is often a document of some sort governing how shared-living spaces work. Don’t be that person who doesn’t know the rules. All obvious reasons for knowing the regulations of your residence aside, if you inadvertently tread over a boundary usually recognized by your neighbors, the unnecessary faux pas can be socially isolating. Pull out your reading glasses and make sure you understand the quirks of your particular home.

Respect shared spaces

This is a good arena in which to know the rules: do you need to book a shared space if you have family visiting? Are there restrictions about when visitors can come? Are there certain quiet hours of the day best undisturbed by your enthusiastic two-year-old grandson? If you can’t find regulations, chat with your neighbors! Keep them aware of your plans and give them the opportunity to share preferences or concerns.

Sometimes, using your own space can be disruptive to shared spaces as well. Be mindful if using your outdoor space is creating too much noise, or if your TV is up too loud at night.

It’s also worth mentioning to respect other people’s private spaces as well. Living in close quarters can encourage fast friendship, but people often do like to have visitors announced. Don’t forget the courtesy call before stopping by an acquaintance’s place for a catch-up.

Safety first

Whether you live in a shared complex or an independent living facility, your safety is closely tied to the safety of the other residents.

If you see something suspicious, tell someone.
Keep your doors locked.
If anything is broken around your home or around the facility, tell someone.
Get the contact details for your neighbors and their families, and share yours as well.
Set a timer when cooking! A fire alarm being set off in your home can quickly become a community-wide incident.

Don’t forget the staff!

Your peers aren’t the only people you are in close proximity with. Whether or not you connect with the staff in any social manner, they will be a presence in your life day in and day out. When people enjoy their interactions at work, they tend to be more cheerful and take more care with their job. These benefits, along with the potential for conversations with an interesting, multi-generational population, are reason enough to make sure to say thank you and ask a few questions about a staff member’s day.

Be a friend

Making new friends is a completely different skill set than maintaining long-term friendships. Any of the small acts below could open up the possibility of further interaction and potentially new friendships.

Introduce yourself! Someone has to make the first move.
Participate in the social activities organized by your community.
Welcome newcomers with local tips, a dinner invite, and your contact details.
Lend a hand – pick up someone’s mail, help them with their extra bags, hold the door open. A little gesture goes a long way.
Make an extra effort with withdrawn neighbors. They may just need more time to open up.
Enjoy common areas rather than locking yourself in at home.
Organize activities specific to neighbors’ needs – A playdate with similar-aged grandkids so the adults can chat? A less-competitive game of cards with a patient who needs memory care on a night the more competitive game isn’t scheduled?
Join committees or clubs in alignment with your interests or skills. If there isn’t one, start one!
Build a community garden.
Return things you borrow promptly and in the same condition it was given. Was it a dish of food? Fill it with something else to return to the giver with a treat!
Don’t gossip. It’s a quick way to start a conversation, but it is also poison in a group and will diminish other’s trust in you in the long run.

Being neighborly may not be something you’ve focused much on in the past. It may have come naturally, with the local kids bringing together the families on the street and the homeowner’s association looping you in with their regulations and newsletters. Or maybe everyone in your neighborhood kept mostly to themselves, which feels rather normal these days in the suburbs.

If you haven’t given your role as a neighbor much scrutiny in the past, as a resident of a senior living community, it may be time to dig in. A little effort goes a long way in your living situation being everything you were counting on when you moved in.

How To Start The Conversation

A helpful guide for navigating a tricky conversation around senior living

There are a handful of conversations we have at different phases of life that carry a stigma. Talking to an aged parent(s) about moving to a nursing home is definitely on that list. The fear of this conversation is understandable and may be keeping you from striking it up. But it is in everyone’s best interest to have the conversation, and have it with care. Here’s a guide of things to consider that may make this conversation much easier to approach.

Start the conversation early

Start it too early. Start it when it feels like it’s relevance is way down the line. This offers an opportunity to have the seed planted long before there is any threat of eventuality raising the emotion of the conversation. Find out what is important to them as a couple, as individuals, and for their family. This way, your parent(s) has the chance to freely share their wishes and you can be armed with that information when the right time comes.

Maybe they already have a specific location in mind! Inquire about waiting lists long before you need them so you’re not in the position of choosing a place based on availability when crisis strikes.

Assess the right time

At some point, the conversation about moving to assisted living becomes a necessity. This looks different for every family, but hopefully you’re able to make this decision a priority before there is a disaster at home.

One great way to identify the right time is to volunteer to come around the house for a project, something extensive like landscaping or cleaning the house, so you can see their range of motion and the state of the household. It will give you an idea of how your parents are faring with the upkeep of their residence while also laying a foundation of good will and trust that could be the opening for a future conversation.

Do your research

Having information prepared always makes a hard conversation less challenging. Hopefully you know your parents’ wishes, but even if you weren’t able to start the conversation early, you know your parents.

Do they want to be closer to family? Do they care about having access to a kitchen to make family favorites? Do they want to live in assisted or independent living? What is the future of their illness? Do they have a pet or furniture they want to bring along?

These are concerns they will raise when the conversation comes, so knowing what their options are that address these needs can be a real lifesaver when presenting the option of aged care.

Consider your language

Often times, family dynamics can be the hardest part of a conversation like this. Even your own assumption that this conversation will be hard can make the conversation hard. Enter into the conversation in a positive and helpful way. Ask questions about how your parent is doing. Present your concerns directly, but also offer a balanced amount of optimism about the benefits of the communities they might consider. Use your knowledge of what matters to them to frame these benefits.

This conversation could bring up a lot of feelings for your parent. Be sure to acknowledge whatever your parent communicates to you, whether positive or negative. People want to be heard, and not only will affirming their concerns let them know you understand them but it will also give you insight into what may be holding them back so you can help them overcome their objections.

And, perhaps most importantly, take it slow. You don’t have to make a decision in a day. This is a huge life change for you parent. Let it simmer for a bit to give them time to adjust.

Personalize it

Mention how much your friend’s mom loves the social aspect of her new home, or how you ran into the son of your parent’s old colleague who says his dad couldn’t be more thrilled about being off the hook for yard work.

If they don’t buy the anecdotes, take your parent to check out places out together! Sometimes seeing a senior community in person can dispel an unsavory preconception. Especially if you can take them somewhere where they already have friends! Seeing the a place up close can help your parents actually envision themselves there.

It’s their decision

As long as it is safely possible, this needs to be their decision and they need to know that you know that. If they’re not ready right away, offer other solutions that bridge the gap and buy them the time they need to adjust on their own. Gift them a cleaning service, update some safety features of their home, or organize home care.

Not forcing the issue and letting your parent decide will make you a safe sounding board for your parent as they processes this idea, but also will make their adjustment when they finally decide to move much smoother and happier.

You may be surprised to find out your parent is more amenable than you imagined, and giving them their own space to decide what their life will look like will make them feel even better about their decision to move forward into this next phase.

Bring in help

If it is getting dangerous at home and you aren’t making any headway, consider bringing in a friend, spiritual leader, or another trusted person to help have the conversation. The truth is, no matter how well intentioned, the adult children of aging parents aren’t always the best person for this conversation. Your road block isn’t the end of the road, often a third party can pave the way when you thought the conversation was going nowhere. Don’t take this personally, let the help you’ve enlisted move the conversation forward and you can focus on being a support system and maintaining your relationship with your family.

How to Select A Senior Living Community

by Judy Baxter, Marketing Director • Westchester Village of Lenexa

The action of MOVING evokes a variety of thoughts and emotions. Some people view it as an adventure and look forward to the change, but others prefer routine and consistency and are reluctant to change. Some moves are cross country, across town, down the street; to an apartment, to a house or to a senior living community.

The reasons to consider moving to a senior living community are many. They can range from the desire to downsize, freedom from home maintenance and repairs, costs, health concerns, death of a spouse, proximity to family, safety/security, longing for friendship and community. I welcome the opportunity to meet with individuals as they begin to explore the idea of senior living. During our discussions, I ask, “What are your priorities in selecting a senior living community?” Often times that question is met with a puzzled look and a shrug of shoulders. Another perspective is “At the end of the day as you evaluate the several communities visited, what will be the points of comparison between the communities?” These points of comparison then become your priorities.

While priorities will vary from person to person, here are some common points of consideration in selecting a senior living community.

Is the community a Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC)? A continuing care retirement community offers independent living, assisted living, short-term rehab, and long-term care. When you begin to need more assistance you are able to relocate to the appropriate level of care without the need to find a different community. Moving to a CCRC gives you and your family the security of knowing that your needs will be cared for in the future regardless of what the future holds.
Financial model. Communities have different financial models ranging from monthly rentals to entrance deposits (oftentimes hundreds of thousands of dollars) with monthly fees.
Location of community/proximity to family. Oftentimes individuals desire to live closer to family, medical community, church, etc.
Right-size. Sometimes referred to as downsizing, this is selecting a residence with the space an individual uses on a daily basis (i.e. bedroom, bathroom, living room, dining area, and den), not the 4-bedroom house for the extended family’s annual visit. There is always a guest room within the community or a nearby hotel for occasional guests.
Sense of Community. Living alone can lead to social isolation and seclusion. A community provides an engaging environment with peers and an opportunity for friendship.

These are just a few points to consider when selecting a senior living community. Remember this is a personal decision, and there are many great choices to select from!

Medicare vs. Medicaid

Exploring the Differences and Determining What’s Right For You

What’s in a name? Great question. Medicare and Medicaid sound very similar, but their names give little in the way of answers. When it comes to insurance, the fine print can often make heads spin. Even if you still have health coverage through your employer or your spouse, it is important to know how these programs may relate to you now or in the future.

You may already be eligible for some of these services, you may have been paying into these services each tax year, or maybe you are already enrolled but want a few more details to make sure you’re in the right place. Learning more about these two programs will hopefully point you in the right direction and encourage you to make sure you have the coverage that fits your needs.

Medicaid vs Medicare 101

So what is the difference? Medicare is a federal program that offers coverage to adults aged 65 and over, as well as individuals with certain disabilities. Medicaid is a state and federal program, offering free or low-cost health care to low-income individuals and families. These programs are very different but can be used simultaneously, independently, or not at all depending on your preferences and needs.

Medicare

All adults become eligible for Medicare when they turn 65. You may automatically be enrolled if you are already getting Social Security benefits or if you have been receiving disability benefits for 24 months. If you are automatically enrolled, you will receive your card in the mail when eligible and will be enrolled in Part A and Part B. You will need to contact Medicare if you don’t want Plan B coverage, as there are often premiums attached that you will be responsible for.

If you aren’t automatically enrolled, you will need to enroll during your enrollment window unless you are still covered by another policy. Joining or amending your policy outside of these dates may not be possible or may incur penalties. You can enroll online, in person, or over the phone with your local Medicare office.

Medicare is an individual policy. Many spouses have shared insurance policies throughout their lives and may make the assumption that one spouse being enrolled means the other is covered as well, which is untrue. Please be sure that you are actually enrolled if you are counting on Medicare as your coverage.

Part A

Medicare has several different parts, allowing you to customize for your needs. Part A is mainly hospital cover but also can cover short-term skilled nursing care, hospice, and home healthcare.

If you or your spouse have been paying into Medicare through your employer for a minimum of 10 years, Part A is completely free. If you haven’t been paying into Medicare, there will be premiums attached. You can use this calculator to determine what your expected premiums could be. Depending on the size of their premiums, some people opt not to use Medicare for their coverage.

Part B

Part B covers medical services like ambulance service, medical equipment, doctor’s visits, and outpatient care. It also covers preventative medicine like vaccinations or diagnostic testing.

Most people will opt to have at least Part A and Part B coverage when using Medicare, but keep in mind that you will likely have to pay a premium for Part B services. There are often co-pays and deductibles to meet with Part B services as well. These can be offset by Medicaid if you qualify or by purchasing Medigap insurance. If your needs change, add or remove Part B during open enrollment in order to avoid penalty fees.

Part D

Part D is for prescription drug coverage. This is an optional add-on that covers you for, you guessed it, prescription drugs. This policy will also include monthly premiums, which can vary quite a bit. If you do elect to add this on, be sure to do it during open enrollment to avoid penalty fees.

Medigap

Medigap is offered through private companies, and it helps pay for some of the extras not covered by Medicare like copayments, coinsurance, and deductibles. Some even can include health coverage while you travel outside of the States! They don’t usually cover those extras like vision, dental, or hearing aids, and they never include prescription drugs.

Keep in mind that you must have Medicare Part A and Part B in order to have a Medigap policy. You pay a monthly premium in addition to your Part B premium for the service.

Medicare Advantage Plans or Part C

Medicare Advantage Plans are offered by private companies as an all-in-one bundle. Medicare pays these companies for your care, and in exchange, they follow a host of rules in covering you. These companies are approved by Medicare and their policies include the benefits of Part A, Part B, and often Part D. Some will cover the extras like vision and dental as well.

As these plans are offered in the private market, some different rules about coverage can apply. It is best to learn the ins and outs of your policy, your fees, and your coverage and keep on top of them as they can change year to year. One rule that is true across the board, however, is that you cannot have a Medigap policy with a Medicare Advantage Plan. If anyone tries to sell you this, please report them as it is illegal.

Medicaid

Medicaid offers insurance coverage for low-income earners at any age. Since it is funded and run at both the state and federal level, the strict income requirements for eligibility vary by state. These programs are generally free or at least come at a low cost, variables which are decided by your income level and state of residence. You can apply for Medicaid through the Health Insurance Marketplace during open enrollment or through your own State Medicaid agency.

Typically, Medicaid covers hospitalization, lab services, clinic treatment, pediatrics, x-rays, and family planning. Each state can decide if it wants to cover extras like vision, dental, prosthetics, and physical therapy. You can check online for a more comprehensive list of coverage details as it relates to your state.

Once you turn 65, if you were already covered by Medicaid you may still qualify for coverage even after you join Medicare. Medicaid would then pay your Plan B premiums or possibly still offer you full benefits. It also can be used to cover long-term care for patients with depleted savings.

No matter where you fall in the insurance spectrum, it’s important to remember to check your policy each year. Laws have been changing rampantly in the insurance space. But also as you approach each new phase of life, you may find your own needs or financial situation changing each year as well. And if you have a Medicare Advantage Plan, rules can change annually. Keep on top of your needs and make sure that you are still being covered by the program that is right for you from year to year.

And, most importantly, it is impossible to be an insurance expert unless you are an insurance expert. There is no shame in hiring one to help you navigate the choices you need to make when deciding on a coverage. Insurance is undoubtedly complicated, however, it is also immensely important through all stages of life. Knowing the basics helps you ask smart questions and can move you in the right direction, but an expert hand may be on order to make sure your confidence in your coverage is where you want it to be.

Service Dogs for Seniors

Exploring the benefits and regulations around owning service dogs

Many people are familiar with the concept of Guide Dogs, specifically referring to helpful hounds that aid the blind in everyday tasks. What is a little less understood is the parameters of other types of service animals. Everything from the legality of taking them into restaurants or on planes, to questions about what they can or can’t help with and how they are trained.

The senior population has a range of needs regarding health, safety, and lifestyle. The level of assistance needed and the cost involved in acquiring the right guide dog will be different for each person. However, it would be pretty easy to claim that most seniors could benefit from a service animal at some point. At the very least, simply owning an animal has amazing benefits for seniors. But beyond the more well-known reasons why people invest time in their furry friends, a closer look at attributes service animals possess may have you considering adopting your own.

Dog tasks

Before deciding to get a service dog, it’s important to understand what sorts of tasks dogs can be trained to help with. Traditional Guide Dogs have been an extra set of eyes for the blind, but there is so much more a dog can help with when trained appropriately for your condition.

Dogs can be trained to be your ears:
• They can come to get you when the doorbell rings
• They can nudge you until you wake up when your alarm goes off in the morning
• They can come to get you if your partner is in distress

Dogs can be trained to be your legs:
• They can bring you a glass of water to help you take your pills
• They can lift a lever to open the door when the bell rings
• They can bring you the phone in an emergency

Dogs can be trained to be your voice:
• They can deliver notes on your behalf when you wish to communicate
• They can learn to call 911
• They can get go out and get help when you need it

Dogs can be trained to be your memory:
• They can get your attention at the same time each day, reminding you to take your medicine

Dogs can be trained to detect danger:
• They can let you know when your sugar levels drop
• They can warn you when you are about to have an epileptic seizure

Dogs can simply reduce anxiety.

Service animal regulations

A *service animal is a dog who is trained to help someone with the day to day realities of a diagnosed condition. This would include tasks supporting people with deafness, blindness, diabetes, epilepsy, and more. If trained properly and supporting its owner with a defined disability, these dogs are able to accompany their human friend into restaurants, shops, or anywhere else they may need assistance.

There is a broader usage of the term “service animal” that extends beyond the more traditional definition. This is where you see emotional support animals coming in to play. While doctors can write notes recommending patients be accompanied by animals for any host of reasons, there are different laws from state to state that apply when using a more general definition of a service animal.

It is important to know what type of animal you have and where you fall within the law. Understanding your own needs and the letter of the law will make sure you find yourself in a helpful relationship with your service animal and your community. As you do your research, please stick to trustworthy information. There are websites willing to sell you a service dog certification or registration which may not be legally valid. Going through the appropriate channels will help ensure you and your service animal are recognized wherever you go.

And if your needs aren’t consistent with legislation’s definition of a service animal, then you have an amazing pet whose benefits you can enjoy. Not every dog has to be a service animal. It does, however, have to tick all of the right boxes in order to be a service animal.

Training

This element is crucial. Training is what gives the animals the skills they need to be your support system. Training is what allows the dog to be classified as a service animal, which protects you and your service animal under the law. Training is also where the largest part of the investment in a service animal lies.

Whether you are having your own dog trained for the job or adopting a new one, there will be costs involved in getting their skills up to snuff. Keep in mind that it can be a long process and many dog breeds are not cut out for the job, so it is best to engage a professional for at least a consult if you are considering moving forward with a service animal of your own.

Please do your research before diving in. You want to make sure that your animal is trained in an ethical way, in a way that is compliant with your state’s rules and regulations, and in a way that will keep you safe. There are many programs out there that can help you get started on this journey if it interests you.

If you are taking on a new dog, you may consider working with a rescue animal. A mature aged dog will appreciate a happy home and may have an energy level that is more consistent with your environment. Keep in mind that you’ll also want the proper certifications and registrations in order to be protected under the Americans with Disabilities Act if applicable.

Whether you consider yourself in need of a service animal or simply someone whose life may be improved with a hand from a furry companion, it’s worth a dig into the benefits of having an extra set of paws around the house. At the end of the day, animals provide company and assistance, which we could all use at any stage in life. But, always remember that an animal is as much a commitment as a companion. A well-considered decision to take on a new partner could be the best one you’ve ever made.

Outside Activities for Seniors

Ideas of activities for seniors to enjoy this spring

A new season is a great opportunity to form new habits. And, really, what better season is there for a new beginning than spring. Symbolically, of course, this season represents new life. But practically, spring removes some of the challenges of winter with the promise of better weather and more activities going on around town. This is the perfect time to adopt a new interest — possibly one that gets your heart pumping and definitely one that gets you outside.

Getting up and out is important for building and maintaining health, strength, and good morale. Moving the body helps with strength, mobility, and endorphins. But even if moving isn’t an option for you, think about the Vitamin D! This vitamin, both ingestible but also obtained by exposure to the sun, plays a role in calcium absorption for bone health and possibly even immunity from colds and flu. And don’t underestimate the simple joy of a breath of fresh air.

After winter, we can feel a bit sluggish from a period of hibernation. Use the ideas below to inspire a little spring in your step this season.

Go for a walk

This one is simple enough in concept, and yet it can be hard to work up the motivation to get out there and do it. Sometimes it takes an extra nudge to increase the excitement level of the task. The list below will give you some ways of reframing what it is to take a walk and will have you ready to lace up your walking shoes.

Make a date with someone to walk with you. If they can’t make it, bring them along on your phone!
Walk your dog or borrow someone else’s dog.
Go to a dog park and enjoy watching them play.
Listen to music or a podcast while you walk.
Drive or grab a ride to a different neighborhood and take in a new view.
Take a guided walking tour of your town. Sometimes it’s fun to be a tourist where you live! If a tour is too much time on your feet, look for an open air tour bus in town to take you to the sites.
Take up photography and shoot what you see as you explore.
Check out a zoo or an outdoor art exhibit.
Go to a garden or arboretum. This will give you a chance to stop and smell the roses.
If you take public transport or get rides from someone, ask to be dropped off a little early and walk the rest of the way home.
Choose a farmer’s market over the grocery store. Fresher produce is an added bonus.
Grab a treat: an ice cream can be an excellent excuse to get out of the house on a nice day.

Classes

What do Tai chi, strength training, yoga, cardio, and stretching all have in common? They can be done outside! If you’re taking an exercise class at your CCRC or local gym, recommend to your instructor to move class outside for the day if there’s a safe lawn that can be used. You may find a new environment may also make your work out more stimulating as well!

Bring your group outside

Are you part of a book club or a weekly card game? Why not move it outside? There’s no reason to sit inside with spring in full bloom when you’re one table and a few chairs away from a delightful afternoon experience outdoors.

Look for parks with tables and chairs, community lawns, building courtyards, or ask someone to give you a hand setting up the ideal space outside of your residence. The change of scenery will possibly bring new energy to a group that meets regularly. Also, pick activities where there aren’t too many physical things to arrange. A puzzle would be a huge bummer to start only to have to pack back up halfway through!

Can’t motivate a group to get together? Bring your crossword, afternoon tea, or favorite book outside and enjoy the breeze yourself!

Outdoor events

Springtime brings an abundance of activities outdoors to be enjoyed in the nice weather. Depending on your town, there will be a range of different things on offer. You may find outdoor theatre events, music performances, sporting events, food festivals, or craft fairs from time to time throughout the spring and into the summer.

Keep an eye on the sections of the paper that list events of interest to you, and pay close attention to any outside events; it can be a fresh way to enjoy something you already love.

Outdoor Hobbies

Winter automatically gets us off the wagon of doing our hobbies that live outside. But spring is the perfect opportunity to hop back on the wagon. Do you fish? Garden? Birdwatch? Getting back into these hobbies will keep your skills up but will also bring enjoyment.

If none of these hobbies relate to you, perhaps consider taking on a new one! Learning something new keeps the mind sharp, and nothing bridges the gap of a new social group than a shared hobby or interest.

Most of these activities can be also be done with a walker, wheelchair, or a companion — so if it’s safe to do, you have a great reason to get out there and see the world through the lens of spring! Remember, the goal here isn’t complicated. Even if your new commitment this spring is to simply request the table outside for lunch, make sure you’re finding a way to get in the fresh air that works for you. You won’t regret taking that time for yourself.

Best Cell Phone Plans for Seniors

A look at a range of cellular plan options to fit seniors’ needs

There is much to consider when looking at the best cell phone plans for seniors. Most importantly is that all seniors are different. There are some who only turn on their phones when they need to make an emergency call from the road and require basic service. But of the 85% of seniors who own a cell phone, 46% of them own a smartphone which means many seniors require a more comprehensive plan.

Geography will also play a large role in which plans are best suited for which senior. Some deals are location specific, and some providers don’t even service certain areas. Paired with misleading marketing and confusing terms and conditions, it can be hard to navigate the marketplace to select the right plan for the right time of your life.

The list we’ve compiled below will focus on a wide spread of plans from different service providers to cover a range of senior priorities and a range of coverage maps available to help make finding the right plan a little easier.

Things to consider before picking a plan

Ask local friends and family how they find the customer service and the cell service of their providers. There is no point in choosing a plan with all the right features at the right price when you’ll have a poor connection or won’t be able to get ahold of anyone helpful when you have questions. No-one local to give advice? Most providers’ websites have coverage maps you can look at, or you can read reviews online.

The other consideration before you strike out on your own is a family plan. See if anyone in your family has one active because often times you can hop on for a small monthly fee while retaining the benefits of the original plan. This can be a huge money saving exercise for families who don’t mind sharing.

Types of plans

Free

Yes, you read that right. The cheapest plan out there is the free plan from Freedompop. This plan is not too good to be true, but it does come with its terms and conditions. You have 200 minutes and 500 texts with 500MB data each month.

Keep in mind that this company makes its money on overage charges, so keep an eye on your usage. You have the option of adding an overage credit bank to your account, from which your overage will be deducted at cost, or you will be charged a minimum, $20 fee automatically for going over if you don’t have an overage bank.

You can bring your own Sprint device with you, or unlocked GTE AT&T or Tmobile device. You also have the option to purchase a phone through them, with their lowest-cost phone at $49.99. You can’t lease a phone through them, however, so you do pay upfront for all phone costs.

There are no contracts, you can cancel or change any time. This makes Freedompop a potential risk-free option, as long as you keep an eye on your usage. They do have some well-priced prepaid plans if their free plan is too restrictive or you are worried about the overage charges.

Pay as you go

This can be a game-changer for seniors who know they won’t get much use out of their phone. With the T-Mobile Pay as you Go, prices start at $3 a month! This includes any combination of 30 minutes of talk or 30 text messages up to 30 total, with a flat rate of 10 cents per minute/message after that. You can upgrade to a package with unlimited data for $10 a week with 2GB LTE.

You can purchase a device through T-Mobile or bring your own compatible device, which would be an unlocked GSM phone. If you are new to T-Mobile, you will need to purchase a SIM card to activate as well. If you bring your own phone, there are no contracts or commitments with the prepaid plan and you can change or cancel any time.

As with all plans, there are a few finer details to note. This price does not include all taxes and fees and may vary depending on your location. Also remember that if you go over your 30 minutes/texts, the low flat fee for overages will add up quickly if you don’t keep track of your usage.

Worried about keeping track of your 30 minutes/messages? There is an unlimited pay as you go plan with T Mobile starting at $40 a month to keep it simple.

Flexible

Consumer Cellular is a company that specifically markets its product to seniors. There are mixed reviews about their signal strength, but there’s no denying their flexible plan options are fantastic for discerning seniors.

On their website, their plan page has easily customizable options where you only pay for what you need. The basic package is just for calls, starting at $15 a month for 250 minutes, but you can add on more minutes and add data if you need. You can even add a second line. Their transparent pricing updates as you select your needs from their options. AARP members also get a 5% discount on their plan. This is also a contract-free plan you can cancel or change any time.

You can bring your own phone with this plan and the SIM card is free! Compatible phones are any that were previously used with T-Mobile and AT&T or any unlocked GSM phone. You can also purchase a phone through Consumer Cellular, starting at $30 for a basic flip phone.

If you’re not happy during the free trial payment, you can cancel and pay nothing. You don’t even pay postage to send back your phone! This makes trying out this company a risk-free option for seniors interested in giving it a try.

Basic

The AT&T Senior Nation plan is a great option for the budget-conscious senior who wants a straight forward plan with no frills. This plan is for customers 65 and over and includes 200 anytime minutes, unlimited mobile to mobile minutes, 500 night and weekend minutes, and no roaming or long distance charges for $29.99 per month. Keep in mind, overtime minutes are charged at 45 cents per minute.

To lock in this deal, seniors have to go to an AT&T store and show ID to prove date of birth and must be the primary account holder. There is the option to purchase a phone or bring your own device, but make sure the device is compatible. Only basic phones work with this plan, so no tablets or smartphones.

Unlimited

Sometimes, more is better. Especially if you are a high-phone user or you just want simplicity. Boost Mobile has unlimited data, talk, and text plan for $50 a month. Unlimited means you can reach for your phone for all your phone calls, texts, and data needs and never have to worry about overage costs. Keep in mind that international calls are often not included in international plans, so if that’s something you need be sure to ask about fees before signing up.

Unlimited does come at a cost, but this plan’s cost is one of the most reasonable in the market. First of all, $50 a month does include all monthly taxes and fees so you should see the same amount on your bill each month regardless of your domestic minutes or data used. They also allow 12 gigs of hotspot use, which means you can power your tablet or laptop as well!

You can bring in your own phone or buy one through Boost. Bring your unlocked phone into Boost for assistance, or use their website to check your phone’s compatibility. You will need to purchase a Boost SIM card to switch to the plan unless you were previously with Sprint which sometimes works already on the Boost network. If you go to a Boost store, you’ll pay a $15-$25 fee for activation, but if you buy a SIM from a local Walmart/Walgreens etc. for around $9.99, Boost customer service will activate for free over the phone.

Buying a new phone through them starts at $69.99, but they occasionally run deals in-store. For example, if you bring your number from a different provider they’ll give you a free phone with no commitment or contract required. If you want an upgrade, they also have an option to lease a phone on an 18-month contract once you’ve been with the company for 2 months. This allows you to get a fancy new phone without paying up front. Otherwise, this is a prepaid service which means no contracts and no fees for changing or canceling.

Discounts for seniors

ALWAYS ASK. AARP members and veterans are offered discounts through numerous providers. There are also several companies that offer senior-specific plans. There can be a lot of fussy terms and conditions, especially around customer location, but these can be a great option when looking at the more mainstream providers who offer pristine service coverage at a cost normally prohibitive to some seniors. Business Insider has a great list of seniors-only plans as well. Remember, this information is always changing so it never hurts to ask if you qualify for a discount when enquiring with a new company.