Senior LIVING
A Blank Slate Media/Litmor Publications Special Section • August 9, 2019
28 SENIOR LIVING • Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, August 9, 2019
Senior housing options to consider BY C AT H Y DeANGELO At every stage of life, we want to be able to exercise control and make choices. Among the most critical of those choices is where and how to live. This is particularly true for older adults, who are looking to stay put and age in place. Affordability, elevator or single floor living, access to services, and a like-minded community stand out as the top decision drivers. Equally important is making sure that access to services and health care remains viable and affordable as needs change over time. While no one has a crystal ball, the future outlook for optimum health and activity for most of us will require some greater level of assistance. Here are some senior housing options, and pros and cons to keep in mind. Stand-alone Rental Communities with Assisted and Independent Living options These communities offer a no-commitment option for people who may or may not be quite
ready for assisted living services but are looking for convenience, prepared meals, transportation, maintenance-free living, a low community fee and community activities. Assisted living and dementia care options are available on site. While this may be an excellent short term option, it’s important to understand that while you may initially live independently, as your needs change, costs will rise according to your needs and you may have to move to a different room or even to a different facility to get a higher level of care. Often, your apartment does not have a fully equipped kitchen and all meals are provided. Additionally, if you require a hospital stay followed by rehab, you’ll have to continue paying to hold onto your accommodations at your independent living or assisted living residence until you’re well enough to return. Fees can vary widely and are unpredictable. Most of these communities are for profit. If you run out of money because of unanticipated health or other issues, most of these communities do not accept Medicaid. Stand-alone assisted liv-
ing and memory care are likely private pay. Long term care insurance can help pay for these services. Make sure you read the fine print and are aware of future costs in order to choose the facility that best suits your needs and ability to pay. Life Plan Community A Life Plan Community like Jefferson’s Ferry is a notfor-profit alternative that offers residents an active community lifestyle with a guarantee of health care and the ability to age in place. Independent living apartments and cottages, assisted living apartments and studios, rehabilitation services and skilled nursing with priority access are all available on one campus. A Life Plan community contract protects your estate against the potential high cost of assisted living and longterm care. To become a resident of a Life Plan community, you must meet health, financial and insurance requirements. Each Life Plan Community has its own requirements and contract options. Many Jefferson’s Ferry residents, for example, pay an entrance fee that while it can
be sizable, it is in some cases, as high as 90% refundable, securing the resident’s estate for their heirs. After the entrance fee is paid, residents are responsible for a predictable monthly fee that does not rise if your health care needs increase. As a not-for-profit community, entrance and monthly fees are invested back into the community. If residents require additional services in rehab, assisted living or skilled nursing, they remain on campus close to family and friends. 55+ Communities The maintenance free lifestyle offered by a wide variety of 55+ communities is very appealing to the independent and active later middle aged and senior population. There is a variety of beautiful residences, appealing amenities, and a built in community of potential friends. While many residents of 55+ communities work well into their 70s, there is generally a dynamic community for daytime social activities. Most of these communities don’t have on site services of any kind outside of social activities, so it’s
important to consider the proximity of shopping, other services and the availability of alternative means of transportation. As your needs change with age, home care is a consideration and expense in this type of community, as would be a move to a community offering the services you may need. People are aging for a much longer period than years ago. In 2030, the expectation is that there will be twice as many 85 year olds and three times as many people over 100 years of age than there are today. Today’s older adults are more active than previous generations. People want to be in communities with their friends, who will become more like family members, as our actual family may live far away. Retirement communities help people hold on to the community relationships we need in order to thrive at every age. Cathy DeAngelo, CMP is the Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Jefferson’s Ferry, A Life Plan Community in S. Setauket, NY.
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Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, August 9, 2019 • SENIOR LIVING
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How to avoid growing bored in retirement
F
rom the moment young men and women ďŹ rst walk into the ofďŹ ce for their ďŹ rst day as a working professional until the day they ofďŹ cially retire, the notion of planning for retirement is never far from their minds. But when the day to hang up the briefcase and donate all those business suits arrives, some retirees wonder what to do next. Some retirees know exactly how they will spend their days when they no longer have to work, while others who decide to play it by ear may ďŹ nd themselves battling boredom. For those among the latter group, it’s important to understand that many retirees ďŹ nd themselves bored once they no longer have to focus on a career. Jobs keep men and women busy and provide a sense of purpose in their lives, so it’s understandable that retirees feel bored once those jobs are no longer a part of their lives. But just because you no longer have an ofďŹ ce to go to every day does not mean life cannot be as fulďŹ lling or even more fulďŹ lling than it was when you were still working. You just need to ďŹ nd something to avoid succumbing to retirement boredom.
• Work part-time. Though it might seem odd to start working right after you retire, a part-time job can provide the type of structure you have grown accustomed to without all of the responsibility that comes with a fulltime career. Part-time jobs can range from consultancy work that makes use of your professional experience to something entirely different like landscape maintenance at a nearby golf course that gets you out of the house and enjoying the warmer seasons. Whichever you choose, make sure it’s something you ďŹ nd fun and interesting.
Embracing a new hobby is one way for recently retired men and women to avoid growing bored during retirement.
• Embrace a new hobby. Working professionals often say they wish they had time to pursue a hobby. Now that you are retired, you have all the time in the world to do just that. Whether it’s perfecting your golf game, writing that novel, learning to cook like a gourmet chef or whatever else you might have always wanted to do, retirement is a great time to do it.
Exercise is a natural mood enhancer. When the body exercises, it releases chemicals knowns as endorphins, which trigger positive feelings in the body. In addition, regular exercise has been shown to reduce stress, boost self-esteem and improve sleep. Working out at a gym also is a great way to meet fellow retirees in your community, and the energy you have after exercising may give you the boost you need to pursue other hobbies.
• Get in shape. If retirement boredom has started to negatively affect your mood, one great way to conquer your boredom and improve your mood at the same time is to start exercising.
• Volunteer. If a part-time job is not up your alley, then consider volunteering in your community. Volunteers are
always in demand, and volunteering with a local charity can provide a sense of purpose and provide opportunities to meet like-minded fellow retirees, all while helping to quell your boredom. Retirees who love to travel can combine their passion for volunteering with their love of travel by signing up to work with an international relief organization that travels abroad to help the less fortunate. Upon retiring, many retirees initially ďŹ nd themselves coping with boredom. But there are many ways to avoid the restlessness of retirement.
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30 SENIOR LIVING • Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, August 9, 2019
How to eat after 50 A s people age, their dietary needs begin to change. Foods that were once staples of your diet as a youth may be restricted once you hit a certain age, while other foods you may have always avoided may now be necessary to fuel and support a healthy body.
Eating healthy foods and exercising may not be enough to sustain health, as hormonal changes and other health effects as a person reaches age 50 can have a profound impact on his or her nutritional requirements. The following are a few things men and women over 50 may want to consider as they look to eat a healthy diet for years to come. Vitamin D
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Both men and women age 50 and up have a reduced ability to produce vitamin D through exposure to the sun. Extra vitamin D will be needed from foods and supplements. Everyone over the age of 50 should take a daily vitamin D supplement of 400 IU (10 µg), according to Canada’s Food Guide. Without adequate vitamin D, bone strength and health can deteriorate because vitamin D promotes calcium absorption. Vitamin D also has other roles, including helping neuromuscular and immune function and reducing inflammation. Friendly fats People over age 50 should increase their intake of unsaturated fats and reduce consumption of saturated fats. Nutrient-rich unsaturated fats can guard against heart conditions, protect against stroke, keep skin supple, and even help men and women maintain good neurological health. Omega-3 fatty acids can be found in nuts, olives, seeds, and fatty fishes. Increase protein According to Christine Gerbstadt, MD, RD, a spokesperson for the Academy
of Nutrition and Dietetics, as they age, men and women need more protein in their diets to maintain their muscle mass. The amount of protein needed at a younger age no longer may be adequate. Look for lean sources of protein from fish and poultry. Beans are also a low-fat source of protein that can help fulfill daily protein requirements. More fiber Eating more fiber can help with digestive and intestinal problems, such as constipation. Constipation can occur when fiber intake is not enough, coupled with a more sedentary lifestyle. The best way to get fiber is through diet. Leave the skins on fruit and vegetables and choose whole fruits over juices. Whole-grain breads and cereals also are good sources of fiber. Dry beans and lentils can add a fiber boost. Always increase fiber slowly to determine your tolerance. Fewer calories The National Institute on Aging says women over the age of 50 need between 1,600 and 2,000 calories, depending on how physically active they are. Men need between 2,000 and 2,400 calories per day. With each passing year there is a decrease in the energy required to maintain body weight, so caloric intake should be adjusted accordingly. More water As a person ages, his or her body may not signal it is thirsty as well as it once did, so it’s possible that you may not recognize when you are thirsty or dehydrated. The Mayo Clinic recommends around nine to 10 cups of beverages per day to remain hydrated. Eating healthy and changing one’s diet is important as a person ages, as dietary needs at age 50 may be quite different from what they were at age 30.
Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, August 9, 2019 • SENIOR LIVING
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32 SENIOR LIVING • Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, August 9, 2019 ADVERTORIAL
HAPPY SUMMER! TIPS FOR OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES The warm weather is a perfect time to soak up some sun and increase those Vitamin D levels. Spending time outdoors has been shown to improve mental and physical well-being. Studies show, it can improve your state of mind, blood pressure, heart rate and stress hormone levels, and, over time, can lead to a longer life. Here are a few tips and activities to help you spring into summer mode and stay active while enjoying Mother Nature! • Go for a walk or jog – Choose a scenic and relaxing environment. • Enjoy a day at the beach or poolside
Don’t forget your sunscreen. • Have a picnic with friends and family Spending time with loved ones helps relieve stress and improves your mood. • Watch an outdoor movie- Check with your community parks or town village for free summer movie nights. • Do some gardening - Studies show, daily gardening reduce the risk for dementia by 36%. • Go birdwatching or fishing for fun These are great ways to connect with nature. • Go to a farmers market, flea market or fair-You can pick up your favorite fruits and veggies and join in on some
outdoor activities. • Join a group for low-impact outdoor exercises such as tai chi or yoga Exercise in any form is beneficial and this is a great way to socialize. Stay safe while enjoying the outdoors. Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated, wear loose fitting clothes to help you stay cool, protect your eyes in the sun and always speak with your doctor before beginning new activities. AgeWell New York offer health care coverage to improve and maintain overall health and well-being. Call for eligibility and enrollment at 866-586-8044 or agewellnewyork.com.
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Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, August 9, 2019 • SENIOR LIVING
North Shore
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42 SENIOR LIVING • Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, August 9, 2019 ADVERTORIAL
Jefferson’s Ferry Lifecare Retirement Community As a 62 and up Life Plan Community in South Setauket, Jefferson’s Ferry offers its residents an exceptional lifestyle without the worry of home maintenance or the uncertainty of navigating changing health care needs. A not-for-profit community sponsored by the Mather Health System, Jefferson’s Ferry boasts three levels of premier living all centrally located on one campus: 248 Independent Living units of varying sizes; 60 private Assisted Living apartments and 60 private Skilled Nursing suites, along with a full complement of Rehabilitative Services in the Vincent Bove Health Center at Jefferson’s Ferry. The Life Care model offers unmatched peace of mind as we contemplate our futures. With a guarantee of care for the rest of your life, and exceptional services and amenities at your fingertips, your estate is guarded against the potential high cost of assisted living and long-term care. Jefferson’s Ferry is a Life Care community that emphasizes the whole individual and all of their multi-faceted needs; from healthcare to social activities, cultural programs to learning new skills; many of our residents find that this new chapter of life is more exciting than they had imagined. Our vision of
successful aging informs all that we do in what we consider to be the key elements of healthy living: good nutrition, physical health, safety and security, and socialization. To continue to meet the enhanced needs of its population, Jefferson’s Ferry is embarking on an ambitious expansion to its residential living plan that includes 75 spacious one, two, and two-bedroom plus den apartment homes with open floor plans. 20 secured memory care rooms are also planned. New dining options will include a bistro and destination dining, which will complement the existing cafÊ, fine dining restaurant and outdoor grille. The community’s new Healthy Living Center and Fitness Center, will give residents unlimited access to the resources and professionals they need to get and stay healthy and fit, including offerings ranging from Pilates to aqua exercise. Jefferson’s Ferry features unique active pursuits like a weekly folk dancing classes as well as courses designed to enhance strength and balance, such as chair yoga and Tai Chi. For residents recovering from an injury or hospital stay, an upgraded, state-of-the-art rehabilitation center will offer Physical Therapy, Speech Therapy,
and Occupational Therapy to help them get back on their feet. The convenience of having these services under one roof, just steps away from home, means better adherence to protocol and less time spent in travel. For the artistically-inclined, classes take place daily at the Claire Selden Smith Creative Arts Center onsite, while intellectual pursuits are encouraged through engaging lectures and presentation from local and-nationallyrenowned experts. Just feeling like a friendly game? There’s almost always a round of billiards, Mah Johngg, or cards on offer. Also popular are the frequent blockbuster and art-house movies in the theater, happy hours, book clubs, and visits to area cultural and retail attractions including the unrivaled appeals of New York City, only 55 miles away. In addition to the desired level of independence and privacy our residents maintain at Jefferson’s Ferry, they also have the peace of mind that comes with living in a life plan community. Included in the monthly fee are the following services: • Interior and exterior maintenance • Bi-Weekly housekeeping • Landscaping and grounds keeping including snow removal
• 24 hour security • Regularly scheduled transportation to local shopping, events and sponsored tours • Medical Transportation within a 10 mile radius • Dining program • All utilities including wireless internet, except telephone and TV • Prescription delivery • Valet service We’d love for you to get to know us at one of Jefferson’s Ferry’s priority events, or contact us for a personal tour and a meal with your family or a resident. You can view our apartments and cottages to decide which is best for your lifestyle, and learn more about the Jefferson’s Ferry way of life. We’re with you every step of the way – our move-in coordinator can assist you in finding the right services you need for a smooth transition, including local realtors and movers. Your new lifestyle awaits. For more information about Jefferson’s Ferry, please call 631-6502600, visit our website at www.jeffersonsferry.org, or follow us on Facebook.
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Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, August 9, 2019 • SENIOR LIVING ADVERTORIAL
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44 SENIOR LIVING • Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, August 9, 2019
Some benefits of growing older M
any people are quick to think of growing older in a negative light. Although there certainly are some side effects of aging that one may wish to avoid, people may find that the benefits of growing older outweigh the negatives.
higher self-esteem. A University of Basel study of people ranging in ages from 18 to 89 found that regardless of demographic and social status, the older one gets the higher self-esteem climbs. Qualities like self-control and altruism can contribute to happiness.
Seniors are a rapidly growing segment of the population. In the United States, the Administration on Aging states that the older population — persons 65 years or older — numbered 46.2 million in 2014 (the latest year for which data is available). Statistics Canada reports that, in July 2015, estimates indicated that there were more persons aged 65 years and older in Canada than children aged 0 to 14 years for the first time in the country’s history. Nearly one in six Canadians (16.1%) was at least 65 years old.
Financial perks: Seniors are entitled to discounts on meals, museum entry fees, movies, and other entertainment if they’re willing to disclose their ages. Discounts are available through an array of venues if one speaks up. Seniors also can enjoy travel perks, with slashed prices on resorts, plane tickets and more. The U.S. National Park Service offers citizens age 62 and older lifetime passes to more than 2,000 federal recreation sites for just $10 in person ($20 online or via mail).
With so many people living longer, it’s time to celebrate the perks of getting older rather than the drawbacks. Here are some great benefits to growing old. Higher self-esteem: The insecurities of youth give way as one ages, and older people have less negativity and
Reasoning and problem-solving skills: Brain scans reveal that older adults are more likely to use both hemispheres of their brans simultaneously — something called bilateralization. This can sharpen reasoning skills. For example, in a University of Illinois study, older air traffic controllers excelled at their cognitively taxing jobs, despite some losses in short-term memory and visual spatial processing. Older controllers proved to be experts at navigating, juggling multiple aircrafts simultaneously and avoiding collisions. Less stress: As people grow older, they are able to differentiate their needs from wants and focus on more important goals. This can alleviate worry over things that are beyond one’s control. Seniors may realize how little the opinions of others truly mean in the larger picture, thereby feeling less stress about what others think of them. Growing older may involve gray hair or wrinkling skin, but there are many positive things associated with aging.
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What is a silent stroke? Silent stroke may not exhibit any symptoms, making it more difficult to detect.
T
he brain is a complex organ responsible for controlling many different bodily functions. When working at optimal capacity, the brain is a wonder to behold. When illness or trauma affects the brain, various parts of the body may not work as they should. One of the more devastating things that can affect the brain is stroke. Stroke describes a sudden stoppage of blood from reaching the brain. Harvard Medical School states that if a large number of brain cells are starved of blood supply, they can die. With their demise, a person’s memory and ability to speak and move can be compromised. While many strokes come on suddenly, certain factors may indicate a person is at risk. Such factors may include prior heart attacks, genetics, high blood pressure, smoking, or a prior stroke. However, in a particular type of stroke — a “silent stroke” — symptoms are far more subtle and difficult to spot. Silent cerebral infarction, often referred to as “SCI” or “silent stroke,” is a brain injury likely caused by a blood clot interrupting blood flow to the brain, offers the American Stroke Association. Silent strokes increase risk for other strokes and can be a sign of progressive brain damage. A silent stroke is typically only noticed as a side component of an MRI of the brain. Many times patients do not recall having a stroke and never felt any symptoms. Silent strokes should not be mistaken for mini-strokes. Mini-stroke is a brief but discrete and memorable event, with symptoms appearing for a few minutes or a few hours. According to a study on silent stroke titled “Functional and Cognitive Consequences of Silent Stroke Discovered Using Brain Magnetic Resonance Imaging in an Elderly Population” and published in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society, silent strokes are quite common and can have serious consequences. Researchers have found that silent
stroke is associated with impairments in tests of cognitive function rather than movement-oriented performance tests like rising from a chair. Almost 50 percent of studied silent strokes affected frontal circuit components of the brain, such as the frontal cortex, basal ganglia and thalamus. Lesions in these brain structures compromised executive functions and were related to vascular dementia. Another study showed associations between silent stroke and visual field deficits, weakness in walking on heels, history of memory loss, migraines, and lower scores in cognitive function tests. The “silent” part of a silent stroke also refers to the areas of the brain that the stroke affects. Experts at Harvard Medical School explain that, during a silent stroke, an interruption in blood flow destroys areas of cells in a part of the brain that is “silent,” meaning that it doesn’t control any vital functions. Researchers say that, over time, the damage from silent strokes can accumulate, leading to more and more problems with memory. Collectively, silent strokes become silent no longer. There are certain ways to reduce the risk of any type of stroke. These include: • managing high blood pressure and high cholesterol levels • quitting smoking • reducing the risk of diabetes and effectively treat the condition if it is present • losing weight to prevent obesity • exercising and avoid a sedentary lifestyle • taking a low-dose aspirin or a drug that prevents blood clots. Silent strokes largely go unrecognized but can lead to significant brain injury. Getting the facts can help men and women reduce their risk for silent stroke.
Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, August 9, 2019 • SENIOR LIVING
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46 SENIOR LIVING • Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, August 9, 2019
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