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Westmoreland Fifty Five Plus Magazine is published four times a year by Swanson Publishing, LLC (P.O. Box 425, Mars, PA 16046, 724-940-2444) and is distributed free of charge throughout the Westmoreland County area. Subscription can be purchased from the publisher at $35 for one year. The mission of the Swanson Publishing, LLC is to connect the people of Pittsburgh by publishing the area’s finest senior publication, Westmoreland Fifty Five Plus Magazine. The publication is dedicated to the people, communities, educational, religious, travel, health, and recreational needs of seniors in our area. The contents of Westmoreland Fifty Five Plus Magazine may not be reproduced or copied in whole or in part without written permission from the publisher. Westmoreland Fifty Five Plus reserves the right to refuse editorial or advertisements that do not meet the standards of this publication.
“I Have Everything Taken Care Of!”
by Kevin Bock, Integrity Retirement Solutions, LLC
Retirement Talk with Kevin Bock has a new Radio schedule.
Saturday 11:30 am and 5:00 pm, Sunday 6:00 am on 1320 AM WJAS
NEW! Saturday and Sunday Noon to 1:00 pm on WJFA 910 AM, WJFG 1480 AM, 98.7 FM, and 107.5 FM
I hear this all the time—but in reality, no one who walks into my office truly has everything covered.
Most people assume that once they’ve seen an attorney and signed some legal documents, they’re done. But here’s the truth: important pieces are often overlooked. (We don’t provide legal advice, but we work hand-in-hand with qualified estate planning attorneys to spot what may be missing.)
Common Gaps We See All the Time:
1. Incomplete Legal Documents – Many people stop at a Power of Attorney. But you may also need a Will, Living Will, or Physician’s Directive. Sometimes even a Trust (Revocable or Irrevocable).
2. Weak Power of Attorney – Documents may lack critical language, leaving your chosen agent powerless when you need them most.
3. Conflicting Beneficiaries – Your Will doesn’t control your retirement accounts, life insurance, or bank accounts with named beneficiaries. If these don’t match up, your assets may go to the wrong people.
4. Hidden Risks & Oversights – From probate to inheritance taxes, many families face surprises that could have been avoided with proper planning.
The Bigger Picture: Retirement & Care Costs
Estate planning isn’t just legal documents. It’s about life planning. Does your attorney or CPA fully understand the true cost of care in retirement? Probably not.
• Healthcare Costs: A Fidelity study found the average couple will spend $330,000 on healthcare in retirement—and that’s without long-term care.
• Long-Term Care Costs: Skilled nursing can exceed $11,000 per month; in-home care can top $21,000 per month.
• Probate & Taxes: Probate can cost up to 5-7% of your estate. Inheritance taxes in PA run from 4.5% to 15%. With proper planning, these can often be reduced—or eliminated.
• Retirement Accounts: Taxes can consume up to 54% of your IRA or 401(k). Even if you didn’t list Uncle Sam as a beneficiary, he’s still getting his share.
Here’s the good news:
With the right planning, you can:
• Protect your family from unnecessary taxes and fees.
• Leverage idle money to cover care costs and still earn returns.
• Keep more of your legacy in your family’s hands—not the government’s.
If you’re ready to make sure everything is truly taken care of, call us at 724-837-3553 to schedule your appointment today. n Kevin Bock does not provide legal or tax advice. Guarantees are backed by the financial strength and claims paying ability of the issuing insurance company. A broad range of retirement solutions and insurance products are offered through Kevin Bock,PA insurance license number 352896.
Estate & Retirement Planning Checklist
“I Have Everything Taken Care Of!” ... Or Do You?
Legal Documents
• Do you have a Power of Attorney, and does it contain the correct language?
• Do you have a Will in place?
• Do you have a Living Will or Physician’s Directive?
• Do you need a Revocable Trust or Irrevocable Trust?
Beneficiary & Account Review
• Do your Will instructions match the beneficiary designations on: 401 (k)/IRA, Life insurance & annuities, Bank accounts (POD, TOD, ITF), Brokerage accounts?
• Do you understand that your Will does not control accounts with beneficiary designations?
Financial & Care Planning
• Do your advisors understand the true costs of care (independent living, personal care, assisted living, memory care, skilled nursing, in-home care)?
• Do you have a plan for covering the average healthcare cost in retirement ($330,000+)?
• Do you have a strategy for long-term care costs (up to $12,000+/month for skilled nursing or $23,000+/month for 24/7 in-home care)?
• Is your “idle money” being leveraged to help with care costs, earn a fair return, and remain accessible if needed?
Probate & Taxes
• Have you taken steps to avoid or reduce probate costs (typically 5-7% of estate value)?
• Have you planned for inheritance taxes (4.5%-15% in PA)?
• Did you know inheritance taxes can be optional with proper planning?
• Have you reviewed strategies to reduce or eliminate taxes on 401 (k), IRA, and retirement accounts (which can shrink legacies by 45-54%)?
Legacy Protection
• Have you created a plan to ensure your heirs receive the maximum benefit, rather than leaving a large share to Uncle Sam and probate courts?
• Do you have a process in place to review and update your plan regularly?
Tip: Most people who think they have “everything taken care of’ are missing multiple steps. Working with qualified financial and estate planning professionals ensures nothing is overlooked.
Kerry Sholtes
A TRUSTED GUIDE FOR LIFE’S BIG TRANSITIONS
I understand the emotional and practical challenges of moving from a beloved home into senior living. My passion is helping seniors and families through this process — every step of the way — with care, clarity, and compassion.
Whether downsizing, relocating, or planning for the future, I offer more than real estate expertise. I bring a heart for service and a hands-on approach to getting things done.
WHAT I OFFER
• Personalized and professional real estate services
• Marketing packages to attract the right buyer, including professional staging and photography
• Guidance on local senior living options
• Tours and introductions to trusted communities
• Recommendations for low-cost, reliable handymen and movers
• Home clean-out and donation coordination
• Medical equipment knowledge
• Access to estate planning attorneys and financial advisors
• Coordinated timeline planning to reduce stress for families
WHY CHOOSE ME?
• 20+ years in health care and senior care
• Compassionate, client-centered approach
• Extensive local network of senior services
• Proven track record in real estate success
• Committed to supporting you
Creating Better Communities Annual
Celebrating Champions of Excellence in Service to Others
The 17th Annual “Celebrating Champions” dinner and silent auction takes place Thursday, October 16, at The Westin Pittsburgh. Co-hosted by UPMC Senior Services and UPMC Western Behavioral Health, the event recognizes esteemed individuals and organizations who have improved the quality of life in our region. This year’s distinguished honorees are united in their service to older adults and behavioral health.
Guests will have the opportunity to greet honorees during a cocktail reception, place bids on items in a robust silent auction, and enjoy a superb dinner. The highlight of the evening is the awards presentation, which celebrates the extraordinary impact that this year’s honorees have made throughout our region and beyond. The event is made possible by sponsorship from UPMC For Life, Oakdale Seniors Alliance, Gumpher Electrical Service, Concentra, and many other generous businesses and individuals.
The Grand Champion Award is the highest honor presented and is bestowed upon a person who has provided exceptional leadership in improving the wellbeing of countless individuals across our region. Tracey Conti MD, MBA , is our 2025 honoree. Dr. Conti most recently served as the UPMC Andrew W. Mathieson Chair of the Department of Family Medicine at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine and UPMC. She held several roles in the department, including vice chair for education and practice integration, program director of the UPMC McKeesport Family Medicine Residency Program, and executive vice chair.
The 2025 Community Champion Award, given to acknowledge an organization that has demonstrated transformative leadership in improving communities in and around the Pittsburgh region, is being presented to Kane Community Living Centers
Caring for elderly people and adults who require skilled nursing care has been the responsibility of Kane since 1958. In 1984, four separate geographic areas were selected to expand nursing care to residents of Allegheny County into their communities. Four Centers in Glen Hazel, McKeesport, Ross Township, and Scott Township continue to provide convenient alternatives for families who remain active in their loved ones’ lives. Similarly at Kane, residents can remain engaged with their life-long communities.
The Caregiver Champion Award recognizes extraordinary individuals whose commitment to the realm of caregiving significantly enhances the
wellbeing of others. Our 2025 Caregiver Champion is Allegheny Family Network, led by Ruth Fox, chief executive officer.
More than 40 years ago, Ruth began her career as a nurse and an active volunteer in her community. She was involved in various initiatives, from homeless and housing coalitions to community mental health and support programs, all while practicing as a nurse. In 1998, Ruth transitioned into the mental health field at Community Human Services here in Pittsburgh. During her ten years there, she rose to become the director of residential programs.
Ruth’s unique combination of professional and personal experiences makes her exceptionally qualified to serve as the chief executive officer of Allegheny Family Network. As a parent of four children, one of whom was diagnosed at age eight with major depression and agoraphobia, Ruth has a firsthand understanding of the challenges families face.
Proceeds from the dinner and auction support two outstanding causes, the UPMC Senior Communities Benevolent Care Fund and the UPMC Western Behavioral Health Foundation. In its 17-year history, this event has contributed more than $2.4 million toward philanthropic care. n
Presented by UPMC Senior Services and UPMC Western Behavioral Health Foundation
GRAND CHAMPIO
MMUNITY CHAMP
REGIVER CHAMPI
A life-changing encounter with a group of senior citizens at a Bucks County, Pennsylvania diner was the inspiration for national non-profit, Twilight Wish Foundation. In 2003, Twilight Wish founder Cass Forkin noticed a group of elderly women counting out their change to pay for their buffet lunch, and as a gesture of kindness, anonymously paid for their meal. The women, grateful and touched by this generosity, insisted on knowing who treated them to their meal. Their gratitude for such a simple gesture inspired Forkin to found Twilight Wish Foundation later that year. Twilight Wish became the first national non-profit focused exclusively on honoring the wishes of deserving, low-income seniors. Over 22 years and 7,140 wishes later, Twilight Wish is at the forefront of changing the culture of aging in our society.
We fulfill wishes in four categories: Simple Needs, Celebrating a Life, Living Life to the Fullest, and Veterans’ wishes. Many of the wishes we grant fall under our Simple Needs Program. Through this program, we provide basic needs items which will improve the quality of life for those seniors. Items such as hearing aids and lift chairs allow seniors to maintain their dignity and independence, even making the difference in whether or not some seniors can continue to live on their own. Without access to items such as these, seniors often experience isolation, loss of independence, and depression.
Celebrating a Life wishes are meaningful and nostalgic wishes granted for hospice patients and/or recipients with limited life expectancies. These wishes can be for family reunions, visits to hometowns, a chance to return to a job or career one more time or any similar wish that validates and brings joy to the recipient. Living Life to the Fullest wishes are experiences that a senior always wanted to have
but never had the opportunity or wants to have one more time. Examples include riding in a motorcycle sidecar, having a book published, going to a Pirates game, or visiting the Pittsburgh Zoo. One-third of all the wishes we grant are for veterans. Veterans’ wishes can fall under any of the other three programs, but we differentiate them as it gives us an opportunity to thank them for their dedication and selfless service to our country.
Twilight Wish recipients must be 65 and older or a permanent resident of a nursing facility. In addition, recipients must have an annual income of less than 200% of poverty level. For 2025, that is less than $31,330 for a household of one. Recipients must also have a history of giving back to their community through military service or volunteerism.
The Westmoreland County chapter has granted many amazing wishes over the years under the direction of chapter director Jamie Bostard who also serves as treasurer on Twilight Wish’s Board of Directors. Recently, they gifted North Irwin resident Virgie Smith, who is known as “Grandma Moose,” a magnifier for her typewriter so she can continue to create flyers and invitations for the bus trips she still organizes.
Another special wish granted was for Paul Svetahor, a resident of Greensburg. Paul, 82, is an Air Force veteran who wanted to continue his education and go back to college for cyber security. Despite his age, he is very eager to learn and having a laptop allowed him to continue his education and improved his quality of life.
If you are interested in donating or volunteering for the Westmoreland County chapter, please contact Jamie Bostard at 412-849-4057. To nominate a senior to have their wish granted, please visit our website at www.twilightwish.org n
Wesley Family Services serves as the host for PA Link in Armstrong, Indiana, and Westmoreland Counties connecting older adults, individuals with disabilities, and caregivers to vital services and supports, as well as supporting professionals who work with these populations by providing networking, resources, and educational opportunities.
What Seniors Need to Know—Medicare Advantage Plans 2026
By Crystal Manning and Dvonya Sedlacko-Stephens
Significant changes are coming to Medicare Advantage plans in 2026, including increased payments, updates to Part D coverage, and new regulations aimed at improving benefits. As demand for medical services continues to increase, Medicare Advantage plans must carefully align benefits with this increased demand to support members’ health needs today and in the future.
The actions taken by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) help protect beneficiaries and taxpayers from waste, fraud, and abuse, while also providing access to high-quality, affordable health care through Medicare Advantage. By finalizing these payment policies, CMS is ensuring that Medicare Advantage continues to offer access to critical services in an efficient, accountable manner, further strengthening the program’s ability to serve beneficiaries.
CMS is maintaining its withdrawal of a previous proposal to expand
coverage for obesity medications, limiting these drugs to specific scenarios. While disappointing for those needing this coverage, it is a move to prevent resources from being diverted from broader Medicare needs. With the new maximum out-of-pocket for prescriptions in 2025 to $2000, in 2026 to $2100, many carriers may impose a Part D deductible on prescription plans. Last year, major insurers began withdrawing Medicare Advantage plans from certain markets due to federal cost-containment measures and rising medical expenses, which reduced
profitability. UnitedHealthcare, Humana, and Aetna were among the largest carriers that acknowledged the growing financial pressures the industry has faced for nearly two years, and are cutting supplemental benefits, exiting unprofitable markets, and dropping entire product lines ahead of the upcoming annual enrollment period. This change can result in current members being moved to another plan or having to find another plan option. Keep in mind, this may be an opportunity to switch to a Medigap plan.
CMS continues to clamp down on aggressive billing practices by Medicare Advantage insurers. New policies phasing in through 2026 are intended to curb “upcoding”—in which plans use complex billing codes to maximize reimbursements. This aims to limit unnecessary Medicare spending and ensure fairness across all plans.
Additionally, CMS is ending the VBID (Value-Based Insurance Design) program for 2026 due to excessive costs. That means D-SNP plans will need new ways to offer the extra benefits members depend on.
Medicare Advantage plans are expected to undergo significant changes from 2025 to 2026, impacting plan availability, benefits, costs, and
Monroeville
Giant Eagle
Where to find your copy of
4010 Monroeville Blvd , Monroeville 15146
Monroeville Senior Center
6000 Gateway Campus Blvd , Monroeville 15146
Penn Hills
Giant Eagle
230 Rodi Road, Penn Hills 15235
Youngwood
Youngwood Corner Market
1 North Fourth Street, Youngwood, 15697
Hayden’s Pharmacy
505 N Fourth Street, Youngwood, 15697
Mt Pleasant
Hayden’s Pharmacy
same bldg as Main Street Deli 535 W Main Street, Mt Pleasant 15666
Donegal
Hayden’s Pharmacy
3782 State Route 31, Donegal 15628
federal funding. As the full effect of those changes will not be announced until early October, Medicare-eligible individuals should begin planning for the decisions they will need to make during the 2026 open enrollment period (October 15 – December 7), including the following considerations:
Open Enrollment Checklist
• Review your current plan’s Annual Notice of Change letter.
• Compare 2026 plan premiums and out-of-pocket maximums.
• Confirm your primary care doctor and specialists are still in-network.
• Check the drug formulary for your medications.
• Evaluate extra benefits (dental, vision, hearing, fitness, etc.).
• Consider your travel needs—does the plan offer coverage outside your area?
• Make a list of your must-have benefits and compare plans side-byside.
• Mark important deadlines for enrollment and plan changes.
Latrobe
CVS Pharmacy
1706 Theatre Street, Latrobe 15650
Latrobe Library 1112 Ligonier St, Latrobe 15650
Ligonier
Giant Eagle
117 Walnut Street Ligonier 15658
Ligonier Library 120 W Main St, Ligonier 15658
Harrison City/Jeannette
Giant Eagle
Penny Lane 2000 Penny Ln Dr, Jeannette 15644
Penn Area Library 2001 Municipal Ct, Harrison City 15636
West New ton/Herminie
West New ton Senior Center
103 E Main St West New ton 15089 (150) Herminie Senior Center 103 Sewickley Ave, Herminie 15637
Tips & Pitfalls to Avoid
• Tip: Always check the plan’s provider directory and call your doctor’s office to confirm. Networks can change each year.
• Tip: Always double-check your prescription coverage, as formularies can change even if your plan name stays the same.
• Tip: Don’t assume your favorite extra benefits (like dental or vision) will stay the same—read the fine print every year.
This open enrollment season is an opportunity to review any changes to current plans and switch if necessary. With the anticipated changes, beneficiaries should stay informed and consult licensed advisors or local health insurance assistance programs to understand their options. For guidance, contact Crystal Manning (412-716-4942, crystalmanning33@ gmail.com) or her daughter, Dvonya Sedlacko-Stephens (412-657-3889, djsedlacko@gmail.com). n
Greensburg
Precision Care Pharmacy
434 E Pgh Street, Greensburg 15601
McKenna Senior Center
97 1 Old Salem Road, Greensburg 15601
Greensburg Library
237 S Pennsylvania Ave , Greensburg 15601
Area Agency on Aging
200 S Main Street, Greensburg 15601
Murrysville
Dick’s Diner
4200 William Penn Highway, Murrysville 15668
Market District Giant Eagle 4810 Old William Penn Highway, Export 15632
Delmont
Delmont Library
75 School St, Delmont 15626
Lamplighter Restaurant 6566 Route 22 Delmont, PA 15626
North Huntingdon
Giant Eagle
8901 US 30 North Huntingdon 15642
Shop n Save 12120 US30 North Huntingdon 15642
HAVE SOME FUN!
Entertainment
Fort Ligonier Days, Oct. 11-13, in the Laurel Highlands. Historic reenactments, 5K walk/run & a grand parade. For a list of events, visit www.fortligonierdays.com/.
A Fright at the Rock Opera Friday, Oct.3 and Friday, Oct 17th Doors open at 6:30. $45 includes dinner and show. Call 724-4684545 for reservations. Visit www.thelamplighterdelmont.com/
Expos
Allegheny County Senior Expo, 10 am-1 pm, Thurs., Nov 6, South Hills Jewish Community Center, South Hills Jewish Community Center, 345 Kane Blvd., Pittsburgh, PA 15243. For details, visit www.seniorexpousa.com/2025-allegheny-county-attendee.html.
Senior Expo, 10 am-1 pm, Thurs., Oct. 16, Live! Casino & Hotel Pittsburgh, 5260 US-30 Greensburg, PA 15601. For info, visit www. eventbrite.com/e/pittsburgh-fall-senior-expo-tickets.
Festivals
Delmont Apple & Arts Festival, 10 am-6pm, Saturday, Oct. 4 & 11 am-5 pm, Sunday, Oct. 5, Shields Farm in Delmont. Family fun, craft vendors, entertainment, and plenty of food. For info, visit delmontapplenarts.com/.
Hikes
Hobgoblin Hikes, 7-9 pm, Sat., Oct. 18, Twin Lakes Park & 7-9 pm, Sat., Oct. 25, Cedar Creek Lakes. To register, visit www.westmorelandcountypa.gov/756/Hobgoblin-Hikes.
Shopping
Fall Vendor Market, 5-9 pm, Thus., Oct. 9, Public Works Dr. North Huntingdon Township. For details, visit www.eventbrite.com/e/fallvendor-market-tickets.
Ligonier Country Market, 8 am-noon, Saturdays, thru Sept. 27, corner of Springer Rd. and W. Main St., Ligonier. For info, visit www.ligoniercountrymarket.com/
Support Groups
Caregiver support group meeting, 2nd Wed. of each month, 1:00-3:00 pm, (Oct. 8, Nov. 12, no meeting in Dec.) at the McKenna Center for active adults, 971 old Salem Rd. Greensburg PA, All caregivers are welcome to attend. For info, call (724) 830-4484 or toll-free at 1-800-442-8000.
Memory Cafe @ the JCC, 1st Monday of each month from 1-2:30 pm at the Squirrel Hill JCC. Upcoming meetings (Oct. 6, Nov. 3 & Dec. 1), 5738 Forbes Ave., Pittsburgh. Registration is required. Please RSVP by contacting Hillary at hgreen@jccpgh.org or (412) 278-1787 or Hayley at hmaher@jccpgh.org or (412) 697-3552.
Parkinson Caregivers Support Group, 1:30-3 pm, 1st Monday of the month, (Oct. 6, Nov. 3 & Dec. 1), Redstone Highlands, 12921 Redstone Dr. Contact Lisa at (724) 832-8401, ext. 3353. For info, visit redstone.org/communities/parkinsons-programs.
Ingredients
PUMPKIN BREAD
Instructions
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Fall Word Search
Fully
Access
Housekeeping
Spacious rooms
Large, light-filled rooms with solid wood furniture and 50" TVs
On-Site Physical Therapy
Partnership with FOX
Rehabilitation will provide on-site PT/OT/Speech therapy
Restaurant Style Dining
Our in-house chef prepares weekly, nutritious menus from fresh ingredients
Medical Coordination
Choose on-site medical care or we can support doctor appointment coordination
Community Engagement
Daily social engagement activities and community-based programs
