Long-Term Care
New elder care technology helps seniors age in place page 15
3 myths of senior living
Are you responsible for Mom’s nursing home costs?
page 10
page 9
Photo courtesy of Hilltop
Produced by the Beacon’s Advertising Team
Your Guide to Senior Housing & Long Term Care
Now on the Web at www.BeaconSeniorNews.com
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“Mom was always there for me when I needed her and now that she needs more care than I can manage, I’m glad to know Aspen Ridge is there to help”
Tough Decisions Caring Solutions Aspen Ridge understands and was designed to meet the special needs of those with memory loss. A Secured Assisted Living Home 970-254-1233 www.jeaseniorliving.com • 622 281/4 Road •Grand Junction, CO 81506
August 2012
Creating meaningful moments By Gail Hansen, Aspen Ridge Alzheimer’s Special Care Center
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spen Ridge Alzheimer’s Special Care Center is a 56 bed secured assisted living home offering specialized programming and services for persons afflicted with Alzheimer’s disease or other dementias. At Aspen Ridge, we understand that caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease, or a related memory loss is a difficult and challenging experience. We also understand that the decision to place a loved one in the care of others is perhaps the most difficult decision you will ever make. Our special care center is designed, and our staff is selected and trained to help ease the minds of the families and friends of our residents. Our philosophy of care is focused on the knowledge that to provide the care and support our residents need, we must know and understand dementia and the ever changing impact
it has on their ability to understand the world. We must also know each resident’s unique life story in order to create moments that are meaningful to them. We strive to provide a warm, caring and supportive environment where our residents can experience daily routines and familiar faces. Our programs are designed to add meaning and value to their lives and to help them feel secure in their environment. Our philosophy of care is simple: To care for each resident with dignity and respect and to join with you in honoring them. As a community service, Aspen Ridge offers a support group at 1:30 p.m. on the second Tuesday of each month. Anyone caring for a person with dementia at home or in another facility is welcome to attend. For more information about Aspen Ridge or our support group, please call 254-1233. ■
Graceful living at Paonia Care and Rehab
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aonia Care and Rehabilitation Center, a Grace Healthcare Facility, is a licensed 60 bed skilled nursing and rehabilitation center rurally located on the Western Slope of Colorado in the beautiful town of Paonia. We are a faith-based organization and believe that in every situation, we must choose to do the right thing for all of our stakeholders, residents and local community. Being nestled in the North Fork Valley, a rural area, we are surrounded by the magnificent West Elk Mountains of the great Rocky Mountains. We are more than a mile high city, as our altitude is close to 5,700 feet above sea level. Our community of about 1,700 people is diversified with citizens who are in coal mining, ranching and fruit farms. We are also an area where many folks come to retire. We serve other rural communities such as Hotchkiss, Crawford and Somerset that are in close proximity to us. Paonia Care and Rehabilitation Center serves our residents’ needs.
We are committed to the elderly and maintain their involvement in our community. We provide services of skilled nursing, post acute rehabilitation, traditional long-term care, hospice, comfort care, and respite stays to the North Fork Valley and surrounding areas. Our therapy services are available seven days a week. We have partnered with Genesis Rehab Services, who provide for multiple diagnoses, such as cardiac rehab, orthopedic rehab, stroke modalities, pain management, diathermy and ultrasound therapy. We encourage our staff to memorize our mission statement and emulate the culture of caring from the heart whenever they provide services to our residents. This statement is provided to all of our staff upon hire with the expectation that the precept of graceful living is adopted into their skill set. To contact Paonia Care and Rehabilitation Center, call 527-4837, or visit www.paoniacareandrehab.com. ■
August 2012
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Help to stay in your home Hunter oversaw the entire process. By Cloie Sandlin Doorways were widened and loose re you worried about living safely transition boards were replaced. and independently at home? Do They installed a sliding screen door you need to make modifications to leading to the patio, and a handicap your home, but can’t afford it? There accessible shower and grab bars in may be help. the bathroom. The patio in the backHousing Resources of Western yard was made of rickety wooden Colorado’s Housing Rehabilitation boards, which were replaced program provides low and moderatewith concrete. income homeown“When you get to ers the means to be my age, its hard repair and upto tell who’s trustgrade their homes worthy,” Benoit through a low to said. “It’s nice to no interest loan have someone see program. Improvethe whole process ments and repairs through.” can be made to The loans taken plumbing, elecout to pay for the trical, windows, project are secured roofing, handicap by a promissory accessible modifinote and deed of cations, foundation trust. Loan interest and siding. rates range from “The program 0-3 percent. usually has a waitBenoit couldn’t get in her tub without slip“They give you a ing list,” Program ping, so Housing Resources installed a reasonable price to Coordinator Jani handicap accessible shower with grab bars. pay each month,” Hunter said. “But Benoit said. “They we’re having a hard really work with time finding eligiyour budget.” ble people because Payments are we have to secure based on what the deed of trust. the client can pay, To do that, they not the amount of must have equity money they borin their home.” row. Payments, Annette Benoit is interest rates and a senior that enlistterms can be reneed the program’s gotiated if the inhelp last summer. come of the client “It was hard for changes. All loans me to get around at must be paid in full home,” Benoit said. when the property “I was concerned is sold, given away, about safety and The low to no interest loan program made or inherited. like many seniors, I Benoit’s home upgrades affordable. “It’s an excellent want to stay in my program for seniors,” Benoit said. home longer.” “There’s something special about Once approved for the program, staying at home.” Hunter came to inspect Benoit’s To see if you qualify for the Houshome for needed repairs and brought together a pool of contractors for her ing Rehabilitation program, call to choose from. Hunter at 773-9739. ■
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As you age your needs change. Now we can help your house change with you Replace youR old Roof
install new windows
add handicap accessibility
Our Housing Rehabilitation program provides low and moderate income homeowners the means to repair and upgrade their homes through a low to no-interest loan program. Housing Resources makes the loans, secured by a promissory note and deed of trust. Our specialists will: • Secure bids for your project. • Help you choose a qualified contractor. • Help with all inspections, and provide assistance with the paperwork. Eligible home improvement activities include, but are not limited to: • Remove old shingles and install new roofing materials. • Replace old leaky windows with high efficiency dual pane windows. • Handicap accessible modifications.
Contact Jani Hunter for program details
773-9739 524 30 Road, #3 GRand Junction, co 81504
www.housingresourceswc.org
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August 2012
WE CARE EVERY DAY…IN EVERY WAY There are angels on earth Sometimes, nursing facilities seem like the only options for care. Visiting Angels® non-medical homecare services allow your loved ones to continue living at home while receiving personal quality care! Care From Two Hours a Week up to 24-Hours-a-Day Meal Preparation - Errands/Shopping - Hygiene Assistance Light Housekeeping - Respite Care for Families Rewarding Companionship Select Your Caregiver
970-254-8888
RIEN F T E P
D LY !
Don’t you deserve the bathroom of your dreams?
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ngel Marge’s client has outlived her beloved pets, so Marge brings her own pets with her. The special trip home between clients is worth every drop of gasoline and moment of time to bring joy to her client. Angel Joan’s clients live in a retirement apartment and miss creamy mashed potatoes, so Joan makes them at her home and brings them some. Angel Debbie sat beside her client’s bed and read scripture to comfort her as the end neared. Angel Shannon continued to visit her client at St. Mary’s (without pay) until she was released. Angel Sandy’s client was a music teacher, so Sandy plays her clarinet for her. In the fall, our angels take their clients to the Mesa to see the beautiful colors. Director Tom visits all of our clients
who have been placed into a longterm care facility. Director Debbie bakes homemade goodies and delivers them hot and fresh to her clients, providing a pleasant opportunity for management oversight. These seem like small actions, but to our clients it really is the little things that make the difference. As a smaller company, we have the luxury of choosing one out of every 30 applicants interviewed. All of our angels are experienced and able to provide for your needs, from simple housekeeping to end of life care so you won’t have to change angels as your needs change. Visiting Angels is licensed, bonded and insured, and all angels have passed professional background checks and drug screenings. Call Visiting Angels at 254-8888 for your free in-home assessment or even just for advice. ■
Building better bathrooms By John Lichty, Western Interior Builders
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dmit it, you’re getting older. We all are. If you’re like most people of a certain age, you own your own home and you’ve been living in it for several years. The features that impressed you when you bought your home—fresh paint and carpeting, new appliances, a sparkling bathroom—are starting to look a little worn. Maybe you’ve reached the age when your bathroom is difficult or even dangerous for you to use. What do you do? Western Interior Builders provides the solutions you need. Rich Heintz and his employees are Aging in Place (CAPS) and ADA Special Needs certified to create safe, comfortable bathrooms that will not only meet your needs, but also your dreams. They provide complete solutions, from consultation and design to fine finishes and follow-up, all to ensure
that you are completely satisfied. Using the concept of Universal Design, Heintz and his designer give your new bathroom a state-of-theart look, with features like curbless showers, nontransitional floors and wider doors, while accommodating your special needs. You get a bathroom design to be proud of, not an institutional one that looks like it came out of an assisted living facility. You also get greater resale value when the time eventually comes to sell your home. If you’re considering staying in your home well into your golden years, then you owe yourself the comfort and safety of a newly redesigned bathroom. Give Heintz a call at 201-8059 or visit www.WesternInteriorBuilders.com. Coming soon, he will be launching the Western Slope’s only bathroom showroom. Look for announcements in upcoming issues of the BEACON. ■
August 2012
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long-term care 5
Geriatric Care Managers provide critical assistance in navigating the aging process
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here are currently 43.5 million Americans caring for a relative over the age of 50, according to the Family Caregiver Alliance. Many of these caregivers are over the age of 50 themselves. Approximately 10,000 baby boomers hit the age of 65 each day, becoming both caregivers and those in need of care. As people continue to live longer than ever, experts predict this could be the first generation that cares for its parents as long as it cared for its children. The good news is that there are more senior care options available than ever before. However, navigating these choices can be confusing, stressful and time consuming. A situation that is further complicated as families often wait until they are faced with a health crisis or other major change before seeking services or help. Hilltop’s Home Care recognized a need in the community for help navigating the aging process, both from the family’s and the senior’s perspective. Geriatric Care Managers have become an indispensible and critical first step in helping people face the complex issues of aging. Geriatric Care Managers are experienced problem solvers. They provide in-depth assessments, home safety
evaluations, service coordination, and ongoing monitoring for seniors and their caregivers. Care Managers are adept at building personal relationships with clients, and finding solutions that meet the needs and desires of those they serve. Often the concerns of family members and caregivers may seem to contradict the wishes of their loved ones, resulting in emotional conflicts. In these cases, the Geriatric Care Manager has the ability to act as a neutral third party, circumventing the emotions involved to arrive at a solution that works for everyone. Building trust and relationships is key for Geriatric Care Managers. The relationship can be short-term or longterm, but the goal is always to meet the needs of the senior and their caregivers. Care Managers will evaluate all available services in the community and make unbiased recommendations. These recommendations will also reflect the full range of senior life options, including independent, home care, medical and senior living communities. Geriatric Care Managers can also play a valuable role in monitoring the ongoing needs of seniors when their family members live outside the area.
Geriatric Care Managers often work with clients who are choosing to age at home or who are in the care of family members. This provides unique challenges and opportunities that affect both the seniors and their caregivers. To meet these needs, Hilltop Home Care has developed a full range of services that allow seniors to remain safe and independent in their own homes. Companionship services can offer seniors the extra support they need while providing their caregivers with the flexibility and personal time they need. These services include providing conversation, monitoring of diet and eating, playing games, going for walks and reading. For those needing personal care, services include assistance with grooming and bathing, incontinence care, transfer help, and medication reminders. Hilltop Home Care also offers
a unique variety of home helper services, including downsizing and relocation assistance, escorts for shopping and errands, meal preparation, laundry, housekeeping, pet care, handyman services, home electronics and computer assistance, and more. In addition, Hilltop Home Care offers traditional medical services including skilled care staff, wound care, posthospitalization and post-surgical care, in-home therapies, chronic disease management, and medication management. As the number of seniors and their caregivers grow, it is reassuring to know there is a wide range of quality care options available, and a Geriatric Care Manager can help you navigate your choices. For more information on Geriatric Care Managers and Hilltop Home Care, call 208-1345 or visit www.HilltopHomeCareGj.org. ■
We Can Help with the Hard Conversations
AL & MEDICEDICAL M N NO ARE C
Helping you navigate the complex issues of aging at home
Our Geriatric Care Managers have become an indispensable and critical first step in helping people face the complex issues of aging. They provide in-depth assessments, home safety evaluations, service coordination, and ongoing monitoring for seniors and their caregivers. Care Managers are adept at building personal relationships with clients and can even serve as a neutral third party in situations where the wishes of the client seem to contradict the concerns of a family member. Other unique non-medical home care services available including: Personal care. Companionship services. Downsizing and relocation. Handyman services. Housekeeping. Home electronics and computer. All caregivers are screened and insured.
(970) 208-1345 www.HilltopHomeCareGJ.org L
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At Crossroads, you’re with family By Cheryl Currier
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rossroads Senior Living of Delta and Rifle is assisted living with a home-like, family atmosphere. Currently, 22 residents share their lives with the caring staff at Crossroads Senior Living of Rifle. “We are so small that we have a family feel about [living here],” Crossroads at Rifle’s Executive Director Sandra Coe said. “When we sit down at lunch, we all sit down together. We have families (of residents) come in and hang out. It’s a very comfortable, easy and relaxed kind of atmosphere.” About half of the families who choose Crossroads Senior Living find out about them through their website, www.crossroadsalc.org. These families are sometimes from out of town and are looking for a living option in western Colorado, where their older family members live. Another third of the people know about Crossroads because they live or have
Senior Living
lived in the communities of Rifle, Silt and New Castle. Crossroads has been in Rifle for almost 13 years. “If the family lives here, they will be looking for a place to move Mom or Dad that is close by,” Coe said. “We have a resident who just moved here from Sitka, Alaska. You can imagine what trying to deal with her care was like when they lived in Rifle and Mom lived in Alaska.” Three main issues drive the decision to seek assisted living. The first is medical management. Most elders are on medication of some kind, and family members will notice that they are not taking their medicine or might be overdosing. Many staff members at Crossroads are Qualified Medical Administrative Personnel, which is a professional designation received after training and testing. Staff members are trained to assist residents with taking their medication. Residents also receive assistance with setting medical appointments
Irma Lee Shimpf and transportation to and from doctor appointments. The second issue is meals. Seniors might not be cooking at all, living on candy bars, or they might have a medical condition, such as diabetes, that requires dietary attention. At Crossroads Senior Living, three meals are served daily in a beautiful dining room. The food is planned and prepared with the needs of residents in mind. Each room also has a small refrigerator to keep favorite snacks and drinks. The third issue is socialization. “Even if socialization might not have been as important in their earlier lives, socialization is an important part of cognitive and emotional health as people age,” Coe said.
August 2012 Crossroads provides a full slate of activities including stretching classes, outings into the community, movies, Wii bowling, regular musical entertainment and several options for spiritual involvement. An extremely popular activity is Bingo. “We play Bingo three times a week,” Coe said. “We tried to cut it down to twice a week, but that only lasted a month.” Crossroads of Delta is a spacious 49 bed facility. For seniors who do not require assistance, Crossroads at Delta offers 16 two bedroom independent living homes. Both Rifle and Delta facilities also offer senior daycare and respite services after an interview and assessment. At Crossroads, elders receive the love and assistance they need in a friendly atmosphere. To find out more about Crossroads, visit www. crossroadsalc.org, or call Rifle at 625-4343 or Delta at 874-1421. ■
August 2012
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Don’t lose your auto independence and freedom due to age or injury
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t the rate that technology is growing in this industry, I feel that someday the blind will be able to drive!” said Shelley Clennin, managing partner for Grand Junction’s Mobility Auto Center. The facts are clearly on Clennin’s side. Scientists are working on just that and the technological advancements in patient mobility have been astounding in recent years. If you have not seen the new rear entry, side entry or converted full size vans equipped with wheelchair lifts as of late, you owe it to yourself or your loved one to stop by Mobility Auto Center at 215 S. 15th St. There, you will be able to have their experienced staff show you the numerous mobility options available with today’s improved technology. “We’re constantly being re-certified by the manufacturers on how to properly install and service the new equipment coming out,” Technician Manager Dennis Lopas said. Of course, it’s one thing to have the technology available, but quite another to be able to afford it. There too, advancements have been made. “I have taken this to heart and do everything that I can to find various funding resources that are available to help my clients get what they need,” Clennin said. Recently, Clennin was able to get the McGranahan family a much needed wheelchair lift. This mobility van was provided with financial help from Mesa Developmental Services. “Now we can travel in air conditioning,” a happy Lori McGranahan said. For years, Butch McGranahan has lifted his disabled son, Jared, in and out of their non-air conditioned truck and placed his son’s heavy
wheelchair into the truck’s bed, a process that was neither quick, nor easy. Not only is their new van airconditioned, but more importantly, it’s wheelchair accessible. “When I was 12 years old, I went to live with my grandparents,” Clennin said. “My grandpa had several strokes that left him increasingly unable to move around. It was such a struggle to get him in and out of the house, or to the doctor’s office. Even assisting him to bathe was a challenge. I know what it’s like to be a caregiver.” The memory of that experience serves Clennin well when meeting with her clients. “Through the Mediquip side of our business, we’re able to help clients with a wide range of independent transportation needs,” Clennin said. “We can install external or internal equipment lifts, hand controls, patient transfer seats, safety tie downs systems, wheelchair locking devices and many more options for your safe driving needs. If we can’t find a solution for the client’s challenges ourselves, then we know someone who can.” Equipment periodically requires maintenance and sometimes repairs. That’s why it’s important to deal with a local company who knows you and your vehicle. “Dennis (certified lead technician) has a sterling reputation with over 38 years of experience,” Clennin said. “Even if someone didn’t buy their equipment from us, we can help maintain or repair it.” For more information, contact Mediquip at 243-9977 or contact Mobility Auto Center and speak to their vehicle sales team at 243-7552. You can also visit them on the web at www.yourmobilityfreedom.com. ■
long-term care 7
Regain your freedom, come explore your options at
Mobility Saturday F R E E! FOOD
FREE
August 11th
prize s!
1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Enter to win a wheelchair van! 215 S. 15th St. Grand Junction Call 243-7552 for more information
1st annual celebration B u m p ‘n J u m p fo r th e k id s !
Enter to win a t hree wheeled scooter
When you want your freedom come see: MOBILITY AUTO CENTER, LLC 215 South 15th Street, Ste A Grand Junction, CO 81501 970.243.7552
MEDIQUIP, LLC 215 South 15th Street Grand Junction, CO 81501 970.243.9977
www.yourmobilityfreedom.com
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Senior Companion Program: What would you like to do today? By Tamara Vliek, St. Mary’s Senior Companion Program Coordinator
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Sub-acute care ▪ 24-hour skilled nursing ▪ rehabilitation ▪ Long-term care ▪ Dementia care ▪ Hospice and Respite care ▪ Secured Alzheimer’s unit ▪ Palisades Living Center
151 East 3rd Street, Palisade, CO 81526 (970) 464-7500
August 2012
have the pleasure of having a job where I can not only see, but also experience the impact St. Mary’s Senior Companion Program has on people’s lives. One day, a new volunteer, Richard, and I set out to meet with Bob and Joan, a couple well into their 80s. We were greeted at the door with smiles as we walked into their dining room to become better acquainted and complete paperwork for the volunteer assistance match. Bob and Joan were farmers in Collbran for 45 plus years. They talked with delight about raising their children on the farm and what a wonderful life they had. But now, the aging process has caught up with them and neither of them drives any longer. Their two daughters, who live locally, both have careers and families of their own, which makes it difficult for them to assist their parents during the week. Many of our clients have no family in town. Joan is currently experiencing the blessing of having a Senior Companion volunteer. She was matched with one several months ago. She thought her husband would benefit greatly from having someone to chat with and run errands together. Bob and the volunteer hit it off right away. The two began talking about Bob’s new woodworking hobby, as Bob got up from the table and returned with a beautiful wood stained step stool he made. He beamed with pride and even more so when the volunteer told Bob that perhaps it was something they could do together. Bob grinned from ear to ear. As our conversation continued, I looked over at Joan and saw her eyes tear up. I didn’t know if she had allergies, or perhaps a cold. As I got ready to leave and let the three continue their conversation over tea, Joan followed me and walked me to the door. As I turned to offer her a gentle
touch on her shoulder, she embraced me and began to cry. “Thank you so much for what you do,â€? she said. “I don’t know what Bob and I would do without people like you and Richard. We would just be stuck here in the house.â€? As we hugged one another, I told her it was our pleasure to be able to serve her and Bob. “It’s what we love doing,â€? I said. “You don’t know the impact of someone coming over and saying ‘What would you like to do today?’ has on my life,â€? Joan said. “My daughters are great, but they often take me places that they think I need to go, not where I want to go. My volunteer helps me fulfill that. She’s more than a companion to me, she’s my friend and I love her.â€? I’ve always known this program was special. I have had several encounters with people who have utilized our services for the past six years. But for some reason, those simple words, “What would you like to do today?â€? were even more impactful on this day with Bob and Joan. Perhaps it’s because I know that I’m able to jump in my car and go anywhere at anytime, without even thinking about it. But I pause for a moment to realize how much we take for granted by being able to do such simple tasks. For someone with vision loss, Parkinson’s disease or for someone who is taking medications, it’s not so easy. Or maybe it’s having aging parents of my own, who I know someday will have to give up driving. I hope and pray there is a program like ours in their community to offer them a chance to keep their independence, and make new friendships and connections. If you are interested in becoming a Senior Companion, or you or someone you know could benefit from having one, call Tamara at 263-9092. â–
August 2012
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long-term care 9
Three myths of senior living communities By Dwayne J. Clark
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t’s difficult to overcome stereotypes of senior living communities. Despite the fact that the level of available care and amenities, and the choice and type of facilities, have evolved significantly over the past several decades, people still tend to think of senior housing as the “old folks’ homes” of the past: antiseptic, white-walled, linoleum-lined institutions with cold nurses, hot temperatures, and nasty food. It’s no wonder then that the majority of people continue to buy into three myths about senior living institutions that are not only flat-out wrong, but can actually be detrimental to the well-being of their aging loved ones. The three myths of senior living communities are:
Myth #1: All senior housing options are the same. The reality is that today’s senior living industry is similar to the hotel industry, with a range of choices for every lifestyle, need and budget. You can find lowend chains that offer only the very basic in care and amenities, similar to a Motel 6. There are family-run operations, set up in residential homes, not unlike bed and breakfasts, and then there are high-end luxury options, comparable to a Four Seasons hotel. Too often, family members and seniors avoid even considering senior living options out of fear of the unknown and a misunderstanding of what present-day senior communities are all about. They are, unfortunately, relying on outdated childhood memories of when a grandparent or a great aunt went off to a nursing home and never came back. Myth #2: Entering a senior living community actually hastens the end of someone’s life. Assuming that a senior is better off “aging at home” can result in unnecessary suffering and even tragedy. Many seniors who could benefit from just a little added care are often found living alone, far away from family, largely
isolated and devoid of much human interaction, and typically at high risk of physical falls, malnourishment, and depression. These seniors are perfect candidates for an assisted living community because once they are living in a place where they have access to medical care, personal assistance, medication management, good nutrition, opportunities for mental and physical activity, and a chance to make friends and socialize, they truly thrive. In fact, several new studies show that not only does a move to an assisted living community not hasten a resident’s demise, but it can actually ensure a greater quantity and a better quality of life. At many senior living communities there are residents who have renewed their childhood hobbies, or taken up new ones like writing, painting or billiards. There are residents who always have a dinner or coffee companion. They can enjoy on-site book groups and religious services. They can play checkers or Wii. Residents often enjoy unexpected romances and in some cases, marriages. Family members, freed from the worry and guilt of seeing their loved ones in less-than-ideal circumstances, tend to visit more often, strengthening long-worn family ties through new opportunities for quality time and stress-free activities.
Myth #3: Only the very wealthy, and the very poor, can afford to live in a senior living community. The fact is that retirement and assisted living communities have been consciously created by senior housing developers to be very affordable for middle-class consumers. The cost of assisted living needs to be carefully compared with the total cost of living at home. Ongoing expenses of seniors staying in their houses might include rent or mortgage payments; property taxes and homeowners insurance; utilities, such as electricity, heating oil or propane, water, trash pickup, cable, phone and Internet service; home
maintenance costs, including lawn care, snow removal, tree care; routine and major repairs to the home (and appliances and other needed home equipment like an air conditioner or furnace); car maintenance; and food and cleaning supplies. Additionally, as a parent or sibling ages, there are likely to be new costs including outside help with laundry, housekeeping, home upkeep and meal preparation; real-time monitoring devices and medical equipment; home health care; and transportation for medical appointments and other necessities. Those expenses, when taken in their entirety, are likely to be almost as much as or equal to the flat-fee monthly cost of an assisted living community. Most people are surprised when they realize that not only can their parents afford to live at one of these communities, but they actually have leftover funds. Some seniors, of course, won’t have quite enough monthly income to pay the total or to pay for incidentals, and will have to begin to tap their financial assets, whether that means selling their home, pulling funds out of an IRA or 401K or beginning to pay down their life savings. In other cases, children or siblings will help pay for the difference. There are other options as well. Couples can
970-249-2438
share a unit, making for a discounted overall rate. Many communities offer smaller studio apartments and two residents can share a two-bedroom suite, which helps cut the monthly cost. What most aging seniors need is some oversight by professionals who understand their unique needs. They need to be treated with kindness and dignity like any other person, whether they’re still sharp or are prone to forgetfulness, and whether they remain physically strong or are in need of a walker. Seniors will find all of that in abundance at today’s retirement and assisted living communities. For new residents, living away from the life they’ve always known is an adjustment, but more often than not, they quickly realize that it’s a change for the better. Their family members and other loved ones soon realize that the three myths about senior living communities are just that. Dwayne J. Clark is the founder and CEO of Aegis Living, currently with 28 senior living communities in Washington, California, and Nevada, and the author of “My Mother, My Son.” Visit him online at www.mymothermyson.com. ■
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If you need a walker we have many styles to choose from!
Are you responsible for Mom’s nursing home costs? By Eileen Doherty, Colorado Gerontological Society
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Choices of color, size, seat, basket & accessories
Come in and let us help you choose the right walker!-
Celebrating 10 Years!
August 2012
n May, a Pennsylvania court ruled that an adult son should pay HCR ManorCare $93,000 for nursing home costs that were incurred while his mother was recovering from an auto accident. After a period of time following the accident, the mother left the nursing home and moved to Greece. The mother applied for Medicaid, which is still pending. The Pennsylvania appeals court ruled in favor of HCR ManorCare under the state’s filial responsibility rule. While Colorado does not have such a rule, family members are often asked to guarantee payment when a loved one enters a nursing care or assisted living facility. The average cost of care in a nursing care facility is about $200 per day and the cost of care in an assisted living facility ranges from about $80 per day to more than $200 per day, depending on the level of care that is needed and the type of facility. Similarly, many individuals receive long-term care services in the home that are equally as expensive. More than 50 percent of most state Medicaid budgets cover home care, assisted living, and nursing home care. As states consider the ever-increasing Medicaid costs to pay for long-term care for seniors and disabled individuals, decisions are being made on new and creative ways to ensure payments. As an adult child, how do you protect
yourself from being responsible for the high costs of long-term care? There are three possible alternatives. First, if you are able to afford a longterm care insurance policy, you may want to consider buying a policy to supplement the amount of money that your parent can contribute to daily costs of home care, assisted living, and/ or nursing home care. Your parent will have to meet underwriting criteria. A second alternative is to exercise fiduciary responsibility in applying for Medicaid in a timely manner based on the parent’s health condition and financial resources. Colorado Medicaid applications can now be made online through the PEAK system and can take a shorter period of time to process than a paper application made to the county department of human services. A third option is to sign all paperwork from the long-term care providers with the name of the parent as the individual that is the guarantor of payments. Even if you are the power of attorney or the guardian, sign the legal documents with the ward as being the person responsible for their own bills. Spouses may find that under the marriage laws, they will still be responsible for costs incurred for long-term care. While long-term care facilities are merely trying to protect their exposure and assure they will be paid for the care that is provided, Colorado does not have a filial law to force payments for the care of elders by family members. ■
August 2012
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Key questions to ask the nursing home By Tait Trussell
A
t least 3.2 million people in this country will spend some time in a nursing home this year. “Consumers must take a more active role in pushing for higher quality care for family members and themselves,” points out Mary Jane Koren, M.D., M.P.H. She is chair of Advancing Excellence in America’s Nursing Homes. To help member nursing homes improve, the Advancing Excellence campaign through its website furnishes technical assistance, online resources and other materials for nursing home staff and consumers. Half the nation’s nursing homes have joined Advancing Excellence. If interested, you can get a copy of the campaign’s new guide at www. nhqualitycampaign.org. Here are key questions for a nursing home you may well want answered:
1. What ongoing training is available to the staff? Continuing training
helps staff learn new skills and methods for improved care. It also can translate into increased job satisfaction. This creates stable staffing and higher quality care.
2. How many caregivers should each patient have? A patient should have
as few different caregivers as possible. Strong bonds are often developed between a patient and caregiver who consistently offer care for the resident. Consistent care assignments are important for all residents, but they are especially important for patients with Alzheimer’s because they can easily become distressed when faced with someone unfamiliar.
3. Is staff trained to handle special conditions, such as behavior of Alzheimer’s patients? They should
understand that wandering and yelling are typical.
4. What is your plan for pressure ulcer (bedsore) prevention? The skin, as with other parts of the body, can fail over time. Residents who can’t move by themselves are likely to have pressure sores. Bedsores can develop on heels, hips, ankles,
elbows, shoulders, ears—wherever pressure is on the skin too long. Staff can prevent them when they inspect patients’ skin daily. Staff also should keep residents clean and dry from incontinence. Staff should make sure patients eat and drink nutritious food and fluids. 5. How do you assess and treat residents’ pain? Pain can be difficult to measure. Staff should inquire about patients’ comfort and pain level daily. For someone with dementia, staff should watch for pain signs such as pacing or holding a body part, or grimacing. 6. How are medications handled? Residents often take several drugs. Some are prescribed. Some are over-the-counter, such as vitamins. The more medications, the more possibility of potentially dangerous interaction. Nursing home staff should continually assess the complications of these drugs. Addition of any new medication needs monitoring by the nursing staff. Staff should notice sleepiness or confusion that could be caused by medications. 7. Are staff members familiar with your family member’s medical background as well as his or her preferences? Residents and family members should share as much information as possible with staff. If a resident likes to eat early or listen to the radio, staff should know this. 8. How are suggestions from family members handled? Collaboration with staff should be sought. If issues continue to arise, alert the nursing home administration and attend the care-planning meetings to get more information. 9. Does the nursing home have a longrange plan to improve care for everyone? How often are quality assurance meetings held? Does the nursing home have a specific plan to address potential problems? What issues are they currently working on? 10. Does the facility have a consumer satisfaction survey? If so, ask to see it. A high satisfactory rating by residents and families often correlates with higher quality care. ■
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12 long-term care
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August 2012
Uravan celebrates historic milestone By Noël McDonnell, Professional Case Management
The Uravan operation was eventually shut down and a $70 million cleanup process began in 1986. Remediation included monumental undertakings such as disposing of radioactive tailings, filling in processing ponds, treating ground water,
COLOR ADO
k ansas
u ta h
Buried in the southwest corner of the state is a ghost town steeped richly in minerals and memories. Uravan, Colorado was first established as a radium recovery plant, also known as the Joe Jr. Mill shortly after 1912. The mill was later converted for the purpose of vanadium extraction. Even the town’s name attests to its goals. Uravan comes from a mash up of the words uranium and vanadium. As Colorado’s first uranium mine, Uravan played a major role in America’s defense during World War II, providing At one point, over 800 people lived in Uravan’s vicinity. part of the uranium needed by the Manhattan Project for the first atomic bomb. The significance of this contribution is often understated, but without uranium ore, which was mined and milled locally, America’s nuclear arsenal composition would likely be much different than it is today. Uravan was established as a U.S. Vanadium Corporation company town in 1936 and most of the workers lived on site. Several key structures The town of Uravan is buried under cement and gravel. were added to expand the town including a post office, n e b ra s k a W yo m i n g health clinic, schools, fire station, swimming pool, tennis courts and other amenities for the residents, workDenver ers and families to enjoy. According to www.uravan. com, at one point, over 800 people lived in the immediUravan ate vicinity. Uravan primly sat alongside the San Miguel River, and its waters were used to mill and process extracted ore. ok n e w m e x i co
dismantling two mills and deconstructing all buildings, houses and signage. Everything that once was, is gone. Structures, materials and mine tailings were moved into a giant pit and then covered in cement and gravel. The area, though barren, still holds immense historic and emotional value for those in the region. Since the town’s disassembly, former residents, workers and family members have gathered to celebrate the town’s history in an annual picnic. This year, people will honor Uravan’s 100th anniversary at the Uranium History Celebration and Historic Picnic on Saturday, August 25. The picnic begins at 11 a.m. There will be historic displays, door prizes, food available for purchase, music and more at the old Uravan Ball Park, on Highway 141 at mile marker 74. The location is just 17 miles northwest on Highway 141 from Naturita. The event is free to attend and open to the public. Anyone who has an association with Uravan, or the uranium industry is encouraged to attend. In 2011, several hundred people came out to the picnic for the food, fun and festivities. The 2012 celebration will be cohosted by the Rimrockers Historical Society and Cold War Patriots. The Rimrockers, a local historical society, has hosted and organized the picnic for many years. People come from around and outside Colorado to attend. Cold War Patriots is a nationwide nonprofit organization with over 6,500 members nationwide. Their mission is to connect former nuclear and uranium workers to information and resources they may need. They will provide information and giveaways at this year’s picnic. The organizers are planning for several hundred attendees. The venue is handicap accessible and there will be shade and seating provided under large tents. Door prizes will be given away hourly, freshly cooked barbecue and sides will be available
for purchase for $15 for adults and $5 for children. There is likely to be “yellow cake” served for dessert. Attending the Uravan picnic is a surreal experience in a positive way. Although the town no longer exists, the memories and the role the town played in history will be recalled for generations. Come join the Rimrockers and Cold War Patriots to make some new memories of your own. If you have any questions regarding the event, please contact the Rimrockers Historical Society at 865-2100. ■
Hundreds attended the 2011 Uravan picnic.
Uranium History Celebration and Reunion Picnic
Date: Saturday, August 25 Time: Starts at 11 a.m. Location: Old Uravan Ball Park, Hwy 141, mile marker 74 Please RSVP to 865-2100 (Leave a message with number attending) Visit www.rimrockers.org for more information or prepay for your meal via paypal. Become a member for free at www.coldwarpatriots.org
14 long-term care
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Committed to quality:
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August 2012
Visit today for a tour and free lunch
L O C A L LY O W N E D A N D O P E R AT E D B Y H I L LT O P - M A K I N G A D I F F E R E N C E F O R P E O P L E O F A L L A G E S
olunteers of America is committed to providing the best possible care to the hundreds of people we serve every day. We are proud to announce that both of our long-term care facilities, Valley Manor Care Center and Horizons Care Center, now have nurse practitioners on staff. This program is another way to ensure that our long-term care residents and our rehabilitation patients receive the best possible care. The nurse practitioners will review the plan of care for residents with their physician’s approval and get to know them. They will facilitate communication with the primary care physician and report any changes immediately. The addition of this level of care will enable us to expedite care in emergency situations and better manage acute and chronic illness in the facility. It is the same proactive approach to health care that has made Senior CommUnity Care, our PACE program, so successful. It is the next best thing to having a physician in the building and will greatly reduce emergency room visits by being able to assess and manage medical issues in the environment the resident is comfortable with. Another addition to our long-term care programs is WellAware. This
noninvasive monitoring system allows us to have an idea of what is going on with our residents without disturbing their sleep and individual routines. It is a motion monitoring system, only with no audio or visual. We have already had some wonderful “ahaa” moments that have greatly improved the quality of life for our residents. The system helps us identify if a resident is restless and may be in pain, or in some cases, that they are able to reposition themselves during sleep and do not need to be wakened by staff for this purpose. It is another way to better individualize the care we provide and intervene quickly if things change. Our team is always searching for new technology and more effective ways to provide care. This, combined with a highly skilled compassionate staff, is what makes the difference to those we serve. Another way we are improving care is the validation model of practice for those who work with confused older adults. This model helps disoriented people reduce stress, enhance dignity and increase happiness. Volunteers of America is an Authorized Validation Organization. If you have questions about these programs or any of our Volunteers of America services, contact Eva Veitch at 240-0139. ■
August 2012
www.BeaconSeniorNews.com
long-term care 15
Elder care technology helps seniors age in place By Cheryl Currier
T
he phrase “age in place” refers to helping people stay in their homes for as long as possible. This is far and above the most cost effective and desired living situation for people as they age. However, concerns develop as capacities change. Several concerns that are addressed by new technology include health monitoring, communication and safety. There are both high tech and low tech solutions, and costs to some of the most common issues faced by families seeking the best possible aging in place scenarios for their loved ones. We’ve all heard a story of someone who had a health emergency, but was unable to get the help he or she needed, often with tragic results. There are several medical alert systems available that consist of a button transmitter and a monitor speaker. A person wears either a necklace or a bracelet with a button and pushes it if there is a medical emergency, initiating a call to a 24hour phone service. The operator contacts the person over the monitor speaker to do an initial assessment. If the person does not respond, a call is immediately made to 911. American Senior Safety Agency (www.seniorsafety.com) offers this service with no monthly contract and minimal equipment costs. Another service is offered by Lifeline (www. lifelinesys.com). Lifeline offers a more sophisticated device that monitors movement with multiple sensors and will automatically call 911, plus family members if the person is unable to push the button transmitter as a result of a fall. Costs range from $25 to $60 per month. Lower tech ideas include wearing a medical alert bracelet that has a phone number with 24-hour response. Emergency responders can call the number and get all of your
medical information, plus phone numbers for people whom you wish to be notified in case of a medical crisis. Contact www.medicalalert.org for more information. This service costs $45 a year. An even lower tech option is the Vial of Life Program. The Grand Valley Fire District, located at 0124 Stone Quarry Road in Parachute, is initiating this program in the Parachute/Battlement Mesa communities. A Vial of Life is a 4-by-9 inch clear plastic pouch that attaches to your refrigerator and contains copies of your medical information such as primary care physician, allergies, previous surgeries, medications and whom to notify in a medical emergency. There are decals you post at the entrances of your home to notify emergency responders to look for the Vial of Life with your medical information on your refrigerator. “This is a free service to the community and we expect it will be extremely effective,” Anthony Rowe with the Grand Valley Fire District said. “It has great potential to save lives and help emergency personnel ensure people get the medical care they need as soon as possible. You can participate in the program by coming by the fire station and picking up the materials.” You can also go to www.vialoflife. com to learn more about the project or to print out a decal and medical form. Communication is another area that is being heavily impacted by technology. Keeping the lines of communication open involves adjusting to changes in technology. The cell phone has certainly allowed a great deal of mobility in communicating with friends and loved ones as well as generating certain levels of frustration with figuring out phone plans, features and purchasing a use-
ful telephone. There are cell phones available that are geared for seniors. The Jitterbug (www.greatcall.com) has big buttons, a larger screen and a simplified menu as well as amplification that will make cell phone use much easier. Another area of communication is email. Presto makes an email machine for people who do not use a computer or the Internet. It allows a person to easily receive email (not send it) and color pictures. The machine costs $50, plus subscription to a monthly service, which costs $15 per month. The subscription opens a Presto email account and converts your messages into easy to read letters and automatically prints them. Telekin (www.telekin.com) makes a personal computer geared toward seniors. Easy set-up, several avenues of tech support, and a touch screen take the intimidation factor out of using a personal computer. Telekin computers run on the Linux operat-
ing system, minimizing problems with viruses. Simplified email, web browsing, photo sharing and a video chat feature support social interaction without the frustration. Telekin computers start at $700. Keeping the home as safe as possible is another concern. Several companies make automatic stove turn-off devices for electric stoves. These devices can increase cooking safety for people who still have good stove skills and judgment, but may forget occasionally. They come with a timer, a motion sensor and an automatic stove shut-off. These devices cost $300 to $400 and can be found at www.cookstop.com or www.homesensors.com. Independent living is extremely important to seniors. Technology can help seniors stay in their homes longer and is helping people be prepared for medical emergencies, assist in communicating with loved ones, and ensure a safe and happy home. ■
MEANINGFUL & VALUABLE VOLUNTEERING OPPORTUNITIES
If you want more information,
contact Sheri at 256-8612
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MDS is proud to offer licensed home care services. Certified staff who provide assistance with personal care needs, household tasks and respite care.
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PEOPLE SUPPORTING PEOPLE
Mesa Developmental Services 950 Grand Ave. • Grand Junction 243-3702 www.mesadev.org
We offer independent senior and family housing, home health services, in-patient and out-patient rehabilitation, and assisted living.
Home Health of Western Colorado Skilled Nursing and Therapy Services (970) 240-0139
Senior CommUnity Meals A community based Meal Program (970) 835-8028
Senior CommUnity Care – PACE A program for All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (970) 252-0522
Senior Housing Grand View Meadowlark Court Grand Junction, CO Montrose, CO 970-256-9904 970-252-8272 Centennial Towers Montrose, CO 970-240-0110 Cimarron Village Montrose, CO 970-249-2010
The Homestead at Montrose Assisted Living, Respite Care, Adult Day Program (970) 252-9359
Valley Manor Care Center Skilled Nursing Care, Memory Care, Respite Care (970) 249-9634
Montrose Rehabilitation Center Inpatient/Outpatient Rehabilitation (970) 249-9634
Heavens View Delta, CO 970-874-5021 Family Housing Pavilion Gardens Montrose, CO 970-249-1200
Horizons Healthcare & Retirement Community Skilled Nursing Care, Memory Care, Respite Care, Rehabilitation (970) 835-3113