Product Spotlight: Smart Beds for Seniors

With so many technological advances in recent years, it's no surprise that the realm of senior living has benefited from these breakthroughs. After all, technology makes life a bit easier, giving us access to information within seconds. When it comes to senior living, it's imperative to have access to vital information at a moment's notice. Smart Beds for seniors are becoming increasingly popular in many care facilities. Here's what you need to know about this revolutionary new product for the future of senior care.

What are Smart Beds?

These technologically advanced beds not only provide extra comfort that seniors need, they also measure vital signs and other important information that help caregivers on a daily basis. Remotely-monitored to better aid seniors both at home and at care facilities, Smart Beds measure:

·       Heart beat

·       Respiration

·       Oxygen levels

·       Other important vital signs

This gives caregivers access to their patients at all times, helping to eliminate the risk of injury or other problems in seniors.

How Do Smart Beds Work?

Using small biometric sensors placed beneath the mattress, Smart Beds are able to transmit this information to servers, backed up in the cloud. Caregivers are able to forward this information to the following devices:

·       Computers

·       Smartphones

·       iPods

No matter where you are and what time of the day it is, caregivers have the information they need to ensure their patient is thriving.

The Benefits of Smart Beds

Gone are the days of bulky tubes and wires. Smart Beds alleviate the need for many wires to be attached to a patient, instead replaced by the small sensors in the bed. This helps to provide an added comfort level to seniors. The responsive design of these beds makes it possible to be alerted to changes in vitals and problems with a patient quickly and effortlessly. Caregivers now have more peace of mind, knowing that they can access their patients' vital signs in the palm of their hand at a moment's notice.

Smart Beds: The Future of Senior Living

More and more senior care facilities are implementing Smart Beds for the comfort and benefits that they give to patients and caregivers alike. Being able to have access to vital information, all while keeping the patient relaxed and comfortable is of the utmost importance. Ensure the safety and security of your patient or loved one and have peace of mind, knowing that they are being monitored at all times. The future of senior living is here with Smart Beds.

Local Senior Move Management Company Announces Growing Number of Retired Military, Police and Teachers on Staff

Union, KY, September 5th, 2018-- Full service senior move management company, reSettled Life has shown a growing number of retirees in the military, police and education sectors as part of their organization. Assisting with the transition of seniors, aged 55 and over, reSettled Life aids residents in the Northern Kentucky/Cincinnati area with downsizing, floor planning, packing and resettling into their new homes.

reSettled Life employs a number of retired police officers, military personnel and teachers who wish to assist clients in transitioning into their new lives. Not only do these helpful individuals get to help others, they also get the chance to get back into the workforce, and reSettled Life helps to make the work/life balance a fulfilling experience. This fully customizeable senior move management company takes care of every detail from packing and moving to unpacking and resettling clients into condos, smaller homes and senior living facilities.

Founded by Amy Wright, reSettled Life (www.resettledlife.com) takes the stress and worry out of downsizing and relocating seniors to new homes or facilities. The experts at reSettled Life pack a client's belongings, transition them to a new home and unpack completely. From hanging pictures on the wall to organizing the space down to the last detail, these experts lend a helping hand to those who need it during this time of transition. reSettled Life also holds online auctions of items from the estate, helping to leave the client's home completely cleared out and ready for the next owner.

Wright speaks about the importance of having these helpful retirees on staff and the benefits they bring to the organization.

“Our staff, primarily the retirees, have helped people their entire lives, and many have gone through this transition themselves, making them such an asset to our team. Our clients need people who will help them through this stressful time with a smile on their face and our retired staff members do just that. I am amazed and humbled at what we do for our clients and I am truly looking forward to what we're going to accomplish together in the future,” she says.

About reSettled Life

A member of the National Association of Senior Move Managers (NASMM), reSettled Life got its start by Amy Wright, who realized the need for this unique type of moving service in the Northern Kentucky/Cincinnati area. Assisting clients who are 55 and older, the reSettled Life team helps these clients relocate and downsize into smaller homes, condos or senior care facilities, aiding in packing, moving, unpacking, auctioning off items from the estate and more. reSettled Life's mission is to be there for their clients, taking the worry out of senior transitions.

For more information about reSettled Life, please call (859) 663-1713, email info@resettledlife.com  or visit www.resettledlife.com.

Contact

Amy Wright

(859) 663-1713

amy@resettledlife.com

To Retire or Not to Retire: How to Know When It's the Right Time

 

Choosing to retire is a big step that takes much planning and organization. Just because you're no longer working, doesn't mean that your financial responsibilities go away. That's why it's imperative to plan accordingly and choose the right time for you. No two people are alike, which means that what works for one person may not work for you. You'll need to ask yourself a series of questions when trying to determine if you should retire. We're here to help you take a look at your situation more closely, so you can make the right decision. Here are our tips on how to know when it's the right time to retire.

Your Financial Situation

One of the main factors to consider when deciding whether or not to retire is your financial situation. After all, you'll still have financial obligations, so it's important to determine if you've saved enough to be able to retire. It's helpful to set a goal of how much you'd prefer to have saved for retirement in order to live comfortably. Have you reached that goal or do you have a little bit more to achieve? Also, ask yourself how you want to spend your retirement. You have a lot of options for retirement, including:

·       Traveling

·       Moving

·       Downsizing

·       Taking care of loved ones

Will you be able to do these things with the money that you have allotted for your retirement? This will need to be considered as you attempt to decide on the right time to retire.

Your Health & Wellness

Another factor to take into consideration is your overall health. Are you starting to have some health issues that you need to focus on more closely? Then it may be a time to consider cutting back on work responsibilities. If you've still maintained overall good health, you may decide to keep working for a little bit longer or you may want to think about scaling your workload back a bit by choosing to work part-time or from home. Another aspect to consider is how your loved ones are feeling. If you've got a spouse or family member who is having a health issue, you may want to allot more time, in order to be there for them.

Your Accomplishments & Future Goals

You may have spent quite some time in your career and have constructed a list of goals that you've wanted to reach throughout the years. Are you satisfied with how your career has gone? Have you accomplished the things you've set out to accomplish in your career? Maybe you'd like to reach one more goal. If so, you may decide to put retirement aside and focus on reaching that goal. You'll also need to think about future goals. How would you like to spend your time in retirement? Plan for how you want to spend your time, where you'd like to spend it and who you'd like to spend it with as you navigate the world of retirement.

Your Retirement

No two people choose the exact same way to spend their retirement, which is why you'll need to make the decision based on what's right for you. Asking yourself these important questions will help you better determine when the right time will be for you. Take your time and plan accordingly. These are your years. Spend them how you desire.

Four Ways to Spend Your Golden Years

When it comes to your golden years, the possibilities are endless. Traveling along the open road, visiting someplace new or settling into a new community are all options when you reach that point in life. It may seem scary for some to think about what happens when you no longer work everyday. In fact, many seniors work part-time or even volunteer to keep busy. You have achieved many milestones in life and have made an impact on many lives. It's time to relax and enjoy it all. Not sure how to spend your time? Here are four ways to spend your golden years.

1. Take a Trip

A vacation seems like the ultimate reward for a job well done. You've worked hard throughout the years, whether in your career or at home, or both. It's time to take a moment to enjoy the sites that you maybe haven't seen before. Take a trip overseas and visit a country you've always wanted to see or visit grandchildren who live out of state. Learn about your heritage and visit where your ancestors are from or simply take a visit to a nearby park or tourist destination you've always wanted to visit. It doesn't have to be a trip across the pond to be a memorable experience.

2. Travel the Country

It can be a lifelong dream to jump in an RV and travel the country. See sites, like the Grand Canyon, Yellowstone National Park, the Rocky Mountains and everywhere in between. Map out a road trip for you and your loved ones to take, and enjoy the sites together. See what our beautiful country offers and create memories in these once-in-a-lifetime destinations.

3. Become a Snowbird

You may have heard of snowbirds before. They live in the north primarily during the summertime and travel south for the winter months. Oftentimes this works for seniors who desire to spend time with grandchildren and family in a comfortable climate, then escape the cold to a much warmer location. Many snowbirds opt to buy houses or condos in their winter location, keeping them furnished and ready for anyone who wants to drop by for a visit. There are many benefits to becoming a snowbird, including:

·       More activities all year round

·       Better weather

·       A different group of friends, who share similar interests

·       A more leisurely change of pace

Becoming a snowbird lets you enjoy different communities and allows you to experience a new area of the country. You can stay active all year long and make new friends in the process.

4. Move Into a Retirement Community

Some seniors may decide that a house may be too much upkeep for them and opt to move into a retirement community. There are many varieties of retirement communities, ranging from independent to assisted living, depending on your needs. Oftentimes, seniors may decide to start in an age-restricted community, where there are many activities geared toward people their age. These residents can lead active lifestyles and participate in a variety of activities, such as golf, tennis, crafts, music and more.

Your Golden Years

These years are yours, no matter how and where you choose to spend them. Do something you've always wanted to do or travel somewhere you've always wanted to visit. Try out a new hobby or meet new people who share your same interests. There's a beautiful life ahead for you to enjoy.

Top 5 Vintage Items That are Making a Comeback

There are certain items that are simply timeless. They invoke a sense of nostalgia, and you can't help but smile when you see one of these authentic vintage pieces as you pass by an antique shop or run across one in a magazine. Many vintage pieces are becoming more and more popular today, as the appreciation for these unique items grows. Learn about our top five vintage items that are making a comeback in today's world.

Vinyl Records

Although it may seem easier to pop in your headphones and turn on your iPod, there's something special about placing a vinyl record in a record player and being transported to another time. Really establishing the mood, vinyl records have become increasingly popular with people of all ages in the last decade. From kids to older adults, there seems to be more and more enthusiasts getting entranced by the soulful sound of vinyl, complete with its imperfections. This has in turn developed a need for turntables, which are making their comeback as well.

Cozy Sofas

In the modern-day world, less seems to be more. Less design, less detail, less color. But plush sofas are having a moment. Velvet, cushy sofas are making their way back into more and more homes, as they prove to be more comfortable additions to the home. They not only provide a cozy space to talk and relax, they also add a bit of style to the room as well.

Classic Jukeboxes

We're not talking about the digital varieties that you see in some restaurants, but the classic versions with real records inside. Old-fashioned jukeboxes are making a comeback in many dining establishments across the country, bringing back the aura of simplicity, promoting good music and good company.

Stained Glass & Wallpaper

Stained glass is making a big comeback in the world of home and design, as it gives windows a bit of character, as opposed to the plain, contemporary designs of today. More and more homeowners are opting for stained glass to add a bit of life to the home, especially in these areas:

·       Kitchens

·       Bathrooms

·       Hallways

·       Foyers

Another trend that is starting to creep back into the home is patterned wallpaper. Not used all over the home, like it was before, but instead as an accent piece, patterned wallpaper gives the space a bit of color and style.

Old-Style Cameras

Film photography is also making a big comeback as well. More and more people want memories that are tangible, and are investing in actual cameras that take actual film, as opposed to the digital options that we see in the stores today. In fact, Polaroid released a new variety of camera just a few years ago that was well-received by the public.

Vintage Trends Never Go Out of Style

There's something special about these vintage items that bring with them a sense of uniqueness and simplicity. They may not be the latest technological breakthroughs, but they were built to last and built with care. So, the next time you run across a vintage piece, take a moment to appreciate where it came from and relish in its classic beauty. You never know what may make a comeback next!

How to Help Seniors With Technology

We live in an incredible time. Being able to connect with someone face-to-face through the touch of a button, instantly sending messages using the sound of our voice and the feeling of being together when we're far apart make the benefits of technology hard to beat. With all of the new devices and programs in the industry today, it can be difficult to keep up, especially if you're not used to this new world. For seniors, technology can be an idea that's foreign and seemingly impossible to embrace. Here are our tips on how to help seniors with technology.

Step-By-Step Guidance

Since much of the technology that we use today wasn't available for most of a senior's life, the whole concept can appear alien, but with a little guidance, you can show them that technology is pretty remarkable. An effective way to help seniors grasp various aspects of technology is to lead them through it step-by-step. Introduce them to the different tech tools and programs, such as:

·       Laptops & computers

·       Smartphones

·       Tablets & iPads

·       Apps

·       Cameras

Let them see these tools in action. Take a moment to show them that there's nothing to be afraid of, starting slowly and building their knowledge as you go. Most of all, be there to answer any questions. Knowing that there's a resource there to teach them can mean a world of difference.

Tailoring Technology to Seniors

Often times, technology needs to be tailored to our individual needs at any age. Some seniors may have difficulty seeing or hearing and when it comes to tech devices, this can pose a problem. This can be fixed by changing the font size to a bigger option or the ringer to a louder volume. Making these simple fixes can help seniors adapt to technology with ease. There are also devices and resources on the market that are designed with seniors in mind. Taking a look into these options can be beneficial.

Keeping a Positive Outlook

Technology can be frustrating for anyone, not just seniors. As a whole, we're all learning new things as technology constantly evolves. Stay positive if you're helping someone who's not too familiar with technology as they figure it out. Remember, you had to learn it all once too. Take breaks, have fun and learn together. Find an app that you're both interested in and learn how to use it or try out your new camera together.

Technology is Important

As we continue to rely more and more on technology, it ends up being a big part of our everyday lives. Technology helps us stay connected and safe. It's important for seniors to be able to learn about technology and become more comfortable with it. You never know when it will come in handy. Take time together to learn and grow with the ever-changing trends in the world of technology. Not only will you become more knowledgeable, you'll have fun too.

Moving - My Own Experience and What I Learned

Moving...Sometimes you forget how difficult things are until you live, eat, and breathe it.  Over the past month and a half I have been in the thick of moving my family of 5 into our new home and wow was it HARD! Between selling / buying our home, getting all the paperwork necessary for financing, it was time to begin coordinating the move.  As a move management professional, I knew that the task of moving had many pieces involved, but knowing how physically exhausted and emotionally draining it would be was another story.
 
The first thing I did was contact our preferred moving company.  Moving is at an all time high in the summer, so it was great that I had top priority on their schedule, due to our professional relationship. 
 
I decided that I would do our packing and sorting myself because the staff at reSettled Life have been so busy with auctions and moves, but did I ever wish I had our services available.  I ended up sending my kids off to my parents' house so that they wouldn’t be in the way, only to realize that I missed them and I missed a week of their life making memories.
 
I thought packing would be easy and quick, but after filling two trucks full of "stuff" I realized I had completely underestimated the amount of “stuff” we had.  I started the process by purging items for trash and donation.  You wouldn’t believe how many bags and boxes we got rid of!  Then I started going room by room - my house was piled high with boxes and it became a hazard moving about my home.  Even though this move was exciting for us, I spent a lot of extra hours going down memory lane and reminiscing of the past – and I kept imagining how hard of a task it would be to execute this process for a parent moving into senior living or downsizing from the family home of many years.  Getting rid of items is tough - it creates stress and family turmoil.  I  kept wishing I had decided to just step away – keep working my job and let someone else handle everything.  I wanted to #getbacktowhatreallymatters with my own life and let everything else be handled by the professionals.  Then it hit me – a rebirth of my passion and mission for this company – we do our job because it makes a difference in peoples lives.  Moving is one of the most stressful life events you can have, and downsizing is even more stressful, especially when it means parting with items or having health issues precipitate the need for the move.  So the beauty of it all is, that we aren’t just auctioneers, we aren’t just movers – we are people that work our hardest and very best at making the downsizing and moving process as easy as possible.
 

Keeping Seniors Safe in the Summer

It’s not even July yet and already the grass is burned out across the Tri-State, which means this summer has been a hot one. If you have a senior loved one, or you are a senior yourself, it’s just as important to be safe during the heat of the summer months as it is in the winter months.

Beating the Heat

Here are some tips for safely surviving the dog days of summer:

Limit outdoor activity and take breaks – This really goes without saying: The best way to stay safe when it’s hot outside is to stay inside. If you do find yourself spending time in the heat, stay in the shade as much as possible and go inside frequently to cool off. Getting in a pool will also help keep your body temperature down while you are outdoors.

Sun protection – According to the American Cancer Society, “Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States. In fact, more skin cancers are diagnosed in the U.S. each year than all other cancers combined.” The good news is you can take steps to protect yourself from this type of cancer by limiting your time in the sun and wearing sunscreen or protective clothing when you are being exposed to the sun’s rays, especially between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

It is just as important to protect your eyes for damaging UV rays, so be sure to wear sunglasses or at least a hat with a beak or brim that shades your eyes.

Review medications – Some medications are adversely affected by keeping them above a certain temperature. Others may make you less able to tolerate the heat or cause your skin to be more sensitive to sun exposure. Review all of your medications with your doctor to ensure you are taking the proper precautions with you and your medicine.

Drink water to stay hydrated – Just as our bodies lose their ability to metabolize food as we age, it also becomes harder for them to conserve water, which means seniors are more apt to become dehydrated in the heat. Drink plenty of fluids and steer clear of alcohol and caffeinated drinks, which can actually increase dehydration.

Spend time inside – Just because it’s hot outside doesn’t mean seniors have to stay in their homes. Fun indoor excursions include going to a movie, having lunch or going for ice cream, shopping, and taking in a program or checking out books at the local library.

Don’t forget the bug spray – Mornings and evenings are the best times to be outside if you’re trying to avoid the heat of summer, but these are also the times when mosquitoes are the most prevalent. If you’re spending time outdoors during peak mosquito hours, using a bug repellant can help protect you from these disease-carrying pests.

Signs of Hyperthermia and Treatment

Hyperthermia is the medical term used to describe when the body gets overheated. The National Institute of Health lists the following symptoms for hyperthermia:

·         Increase in body temperature (over 104 degrees Fahrenheit)

·         Confusion or combativeness

·         Strong, rapid pulse

·         Lack of sweating

·         Dry, flushed skin

·         Faintness

·         Staggering

·         Coma

If a senior has been exposed to heat and has any of these symptoms, call 911 and take steps to reduce their body temperature while you wait for help to arrive. Ways to reduce body temperature include getting them to a cool place; applying cold water to the neck, wrists, and under the arms or taking a cool bath or shower; and having them drink non-alcoholic, non-caffeinated fluids such as water or fruit juices.

Because our bodies work best at a certain temperature, they try to maintain that temperature, which can be hard when the weather outside is hot and sunny, especially for seniors. So enjoy the summer, but be sure to do it safely!

**For informational purposes only, reSettled Life® does not give health advice. Please consult with a health professional for health advise.

reSettled Life Celebrates National Senior Move Managers Week

National Association of Senior Move Managers

Press Release

Contact: Amy Wright| amy@resettledlife.com |859-663-1713

 reSettled Life Celebrates National Senior Move Managers Week

The National Association of Senior Move Managers (NASMM) has declared May 13-19, 2018 National Senior Move Managers Week. During this recognition week, NASMM and NASMM members around the US, Canada, Europe and Australia are promoting the value of Senior Move Management and Senior Move Managers’ commitment to assisting older adults and their families with later lifestyle transitions. 

Senior Move Managers assist adults and their families with both downsizing to remain in their current home, as well as the entire process of moving to a new residence. Senior Move Managers specialize in helping their clients with the emotional and physical aspects of sorting through a lifetime of memories in the transition process, while providing them with effective options and resources to increase efficiencies and reduce stress. The theme of this year’s celebration, “Passion + Purpose,” underscores the dedication, compassion, commitment, and unique skills Senior Move Managers® offer their clients and families throughout the downsizing, relocation or aging in place process.

“For adults who have lived in their homes for 30 or 40 years, it’s more than just a move. Most older adults making this type of transition need to downsize considerably,” said Amy Wright, Owner, reSettled Life.  “The organizational and physical tasks - whether you are moving or downsizing to stay in the home - can be overwhelming. Families need a professional to provide them with the necessary tools essential reduce the stress that can accompany this type of move – and that’s exactly what we do!”

According to Mary Kay Buysse, Executive Director of NASMM, “Senior Move Managers® have significant expertise, resources and approaches to save time, money, reduce stress and produce quality results. Services are client-centered and personalized to meet the client's needs, providing an expertly managed, compassionate and affordable move.

reSettled Life has been a member of NASMM for three years and is the only full- service, certified senior move management company in the Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky area.  For more information please contact us at 859-663-1713/ amy@resettledlife.com

Founded in 2002, The National Association of Senior Move Managers (NASMM) is a not-for-profit, professional association of organizations dedicated to assisting older adults and their families with the physical and emotional demands of downsizing, relocating, or modifying their homes.  As the only professional association of it’s type devoted to helping the rapidly increasing 55+ population with middle and later lifestyle issues, NASMM’s 900-plus members are committed to maximizing the dignity and autonomy of all older adults.

NASMM is internationally recognized for its innovative programs, leadership and expertise on issues related to Senior Move Management, aging in place, and transition and relocation issues affecting older adults.  Before achieving full general membership, all NASMM members are vetted for experience and insurance and must pass four certificate classes. Additionally, all NASMM members sign and adhere to the NASMM Code of Ethics, and agree to the guidance and oversight of NASMM’s Ethics Compliance Commission.

For more information on Senior Move Management or NASMM, visit www.nasmm.org or contact NASMM directly at 877.606.2766 or info@nasmm.org.

The Importance of Eating Healthy Doesn’t Diminish as We Age

As we get older, we often find ourselves getting tired of cooking or eating meals, which can lead to unhealthy snacking or missed meals. But maintaining a healthy diet is just as important when we’re older as it is when we’re younger. We spoke to Melissa Dyer, Registered Nurse and owner of Covenant Natural Health Care, about our dietary needs as we grow older.

Q: How do your dietary needs change as you age?  

As we age, our metabolism slows down, therefore, requiring fewer calories. However, nutrient needs can increase. The body can begin having trouble absorbing certain nutrients (especially if someone is eating a lot of sugary foods, which will deplete the vitamins and minerals).

Q: How can you use your diet to maintain your health? 

The food we eat will either promote life or death in our cells and ultimately, our bodies. What we choose to eat is important for every system that makes our bodies function at any age. The sooner we start incorporating good nutrition in our lives, the better off we will health-wise in the future. The body is constantly in a state of healing, recovering, and recycling old cells. We need proper nutrition for this process to continue. 

Q: How can you prepare healthy meals for one without wasting food or money? 

Meal prepping is a great way to eat healthy without waste. Pick a day of the week you can spare an hour or two, and gather the ingredients for two or three items you wish to eat throughout the week. Cook the items and freeze them in single servings (be sure food is cooled before putting in plastic or store in packaging that won’t leach into your food, like glass). You can also use this time, while the meals are cooking, to chop up fresh veggies and fruits for healthy snacks. Alternate between the meals for lunches and dinners so you don't get tired of eating the same meal. 

Q: Why is it important for seniors to eat right? 

According to the National Resource Center on Nutrition, Physical Activity, and Aging, one in four older Americans has poor nutrition. It is very important for seniors to eat a healthy diet to keep their bodies properly nourished and reduce their risk of debilitating diseases, such as diabetes and heart disease.  

Q: Should seniors take a multi-vitamin? If so, what should be in it? 

Yes! Everyone needs a good multi-vitamin or supplements to help the body get what it’s lacking in the foods we eat. It is very important to have a high-quality, organic, multi-vitamin that includes vitamin B, B6, and B12. 

Q: Are there certain nutritional deficiencies that are more prevalent in seniors? 

Deficiency of vitamin B6 is very common among seniors and it is very important for proper immune system function. B12, calcium, zinc, and vitamin D are also common deficiencies as we get older. It is important to keep in mind that essential fatty acids are extremely depleted from all of our diets, but this is especially important for brain function. Eating a couple of tablespoons per day can decrease the risk of dementia or Alzheimer's.

Giving our bodies the proper fuel, no matter what age we are, will help keep them healthy for many years to come.

**For informational purposes only, reSettled Life® does not give health advice. Please consult with a medical professional for any health concerns you may have.

Ways to Pay for Long-Term Care

One of the biggest factors to consider when you or a loved one requires long-term care is how to pay for it. Long-term care is unfortunately quite costly and can easily use up retirement savings, especially if it is needed for a long period of time.

According to Stephen Wright, a Certified Financial Planner® with MCF Advisors, “The best way to fund senior care depends on each individual situation. The most common ways to pay for senior care are either from your personal income sources (Social Security and/or pension income) savings, long-term care insurance, or Medicaid.  Many individuals utilize a combination of these sources to pay for care.”

While this subject should be discussed with a financial expert before making a decision, the following is a brief description of each of these options.

Social Security/Pension

If you have paid Social Security taxes and fulfilled the requirements, you should be eligible for Social Security when you retire. If you don’t qualify for your own benefits for whatever reason and are widowed, you may be able to use your spouse’s benefits.

Pension plans are becoming few and far between, but if you are fortunate enough to be collecting a pension, you can use these funds to help pay for long-term care. With the average monthly cost for assisted living in Cincinnati around $3,500, and a private room in a skilled nursing care facility around $7,400, Social Security or pension income may not be enough to cover the entire expense, which is why people often end up using more than one income source.

Retirement Savings

With the reduction in pensions being given by employers, most employees are funding their own retirements through 401(k) plans, IRAs, or other savings and investment plans. Because this is your own money, after you reach a certain age, you can use this money for whatever you want, including long-term care. If you have money saved in a health savings account (HSA), long-term care is a qualified medical expense and can be paid for out of your account.

Long-Term Care Insurance

Long-term care insurance is a much-debated and complicated topic. Like life insurance, which has a main purpose of covering expenses when you pass, long-term care insurance is designed to cover the cost of in-home care, assisted living, or skilled nursing care. If for whatever reason you do not end up needing long-term care, the policy remains unused and the premiums you paid are not recoverable. However, if you do require long-term care, having this type of insurance can keep you from spending all of your retirement income to pay for it.

To help eliminate this use-it-or-lose-it stipulation, long-term care coverage can be combined with life insurance in the form of a rider. Depending on the amount of coverage to choose, a certain percentage of that coverage can go toward long-term care costs each month. The money not used for long-term care, whether you use some or none of it, is still available to your life insurance beneficiaries when you pass.

As we mentioned before, long-term care insurance is very complex and the options seem limitless, so it is best to speak to a professional when determining what, if any, type of long-term care insurance is right for you.

Medicaid

Most people view Medicaid as a last resort when it comes to long-term care, and with good reason. To have Medicaid cover your costs, you essentially have to prove you do not have the means to pay for it yourself, and the government decides how much of your income it will take and how much you can keep. If you have a spouse who counts on your income and is still able to live independently, they will be able to keep a portion of it, but the rest will go to the government.

That being said, many qualified long-term care facilities accept Medicaid, and if you have exhausted your other resources, it can certainly provide the care you need.

While these are the four most common ways to pay for long-term care, there are others, including trusts, annuities, and reverse mortgages. Before you find yourself in a situation where this type of care is required for a loved one or yourself, take the time to review your options so you aren’t stuck making a last-minute decision.

Ways to Stay Mentally Active as a Senior

Staying mentally active as we grow older is just as important as staying physically active. Mental activity increases the amount of blood, nutrients and oxygen in the brain and slows cognitive decline, which is associated with dementia. Whether your senior loved one is still living at home or has moved into an assisted living or nursing facility, there are several ways to keep their minds active.

Social Interaction

Don’t underestimate the power of conversation. Talking with someone keeps your brain as active as working a crossword puzzle. Interacting with people not only helps to stimulate the mind, it can also improve your mood. If your loved one lives at home, it’s important that they stay busy socially. Visiting with a neighbor, going to church, or joining a senior group can provide interaction with other people and keep your loved one from feeling lonely or getting depressed.

If you live nearby, your loved one will enjoy frequent visits from you as well. Instead of sitting with them in silence or in front of the TV, engage them in meaningful conversation. If they have photo albums, look through them together and encourage them to talk about what was happening in the pictures. If neither of you know much about your family tree, research your ancestry together online and discuss what you find. Or if cooking has always been a big part of your family’s history, look through old recipes and compile a family cookbook, discussing what dishes were served on which occasions and remembering holiday get-togethers and family celebrations.

Activities and Hobbies

Creating something can also be mentally stimulating. These activities will keep both the mind and hands active:

Grow something: Tending to a garden may be too difficult for your loved one, but there are many things they can grow in a container that can be kept on a table or counter. If they like to cook, encourage them to grow an herb garden. Or have them create a fairy garden with small plants and accessories in a glass container.

Quilting or sewing: Creating something with fabric and thread requires reading instructions and following a pattern. And when it’s done, your loved one will have something to display or give to a friend or family member.

Paper crafts: Scrapbooking is a fun hobby that involves creating pages with photos, journaling, and embellishments. If the senior doesn’t want to create something from scratch, they may enjoy coloring with colored pencils or markers in one of the hundreds of adult coloring books available.

Keep a pet: Animal lovers may enjoy keeping a small pet. Encourage them to read about the different pets that can be kept in a container and decide if one would be a good fit for them. A small tank of fish or a low-maintenance lizard or turtle can give your loved one something to care for on a daily basis. If they live in an assisted living facility or apartment, make sure small pets are allowed.

Community Service

Helping others is always rewarding, regardless of your age, and there are always organizations looking for help. Your loved one can crochet hats for preemies, knit mittens or scarves for the homeless, or create gift baskets with baby essentials for new mothers. If they live in a retirement home or assisted living facility, they may enjoy making centerpieces for the tables in the dining room or crafting ornaments for the community Christmas tree.

Encourage your senior to stay mentally active by suggesting some of the above options and taking the time to enjoy a hobby, service project, or conversation with them. It will help to keep your mind stimulated too!

Keeping Your Senior Loved One Active

As people grow older, their lives tend to slow down. They no longer have children to raise or full-time jobs to go to every day, and they may even have downsized from the family home to an apartment or condo. But that doesn’t mean they should become completely inactive. Here are some reasons why it’s important to keep your senior loved ones active and some ideas of things to do and places to go.  Always keep in mind that in order to keep your senior safe,  be sure they check in with their doctor before starting any new type of exercise or increasing the intensity level of a current routine."

The Benefits of Staying Active Later in Life

Being active later in life provides many of the same benefits as being active earlier in life. It can improve a person’s mood and lower their risk for diabetes, heart disease, obesity, certain cancers. It can increase strength, mobility, and bone density, and promote healing, all of which become even more important later in life. Those who become sedentary as they age may be unsteady on their feet and have difficulty breathing and poor blood flow.

Safe Exercise for Seniors

Seniors may not be able to exercise the way they used to, but there are many safe ways for them to get some exercise in on a regular basis. Many senior centers, assisted living facilities, libraries, and parks and recreation departments offer gentle yoga. Yoga can be altered to fit any fitness level – including doing the entire session while seated in a chair – and it helps keep joints and muscles flexible and strong without much physical exertion. Although not as readily available, water aerobics is a great way to get a little more of an aerobic workout without putting undue stress on joints and bones.

Take a Walk Somewhere New

Walking is the easiest, most cost-effective type of exercise for someone of any age. It can be done virtually anywhere and at any pace. To make walking more interesting, go somewhere different instead of treading the same path every time. Places to walk that provide mental stimulation and a relatively flat surface include:

·         Public gardens and conservatories

·         Art or natural history museums (many of which are free)

·         Indoor or outdoor shopping malls

·         Local craft fairs or art festivals

·         Guided factory tours

·         Public libraries (many have special exhibits to view as well as books and magazines)

Fun Things to Do That Require Less Walking

If your loved one cannot walk long distances, there are many activities that require minimal walking, but still give them an opportunity to move a little bit and maybe experience something new.

Train or boat ride – These types of excursions can be great for seniors because they can walk to the boat or train, then rest while they enjoy the ride. Many of these trips are just for a couple hours or half a day and may include lunch or dinner.

New restaurant – You can exercise your senior’s taste buds too by taking them to a new restaurant. It can serve food they’re familiar with, but with a twist, or you can introduce them to a completely new type of cuisine. For a little more exercise, take a stroll through the neighborhood after dinner or walk to a local ice cream shop.

Movie theater – Walking from the car to the theater and back can provide some easy exercise with a nice long, entertaining break in between.

Don’t let your senior loved one’s life come to a standstill, encourage them to seek out exercise and incorporate some movement in the time you spend together.

reSettling Life’s Treasures – Lladro Porcelain

In honor of our upcoming auction, which includes over 50 of these figurines, we are discussing the unique pieces of Lladro porcelain.

Considering its large following and collectability, Lladro porcelain got its start relatively recently, in 1953. Three Lladro brothers, Juan, Jose, and Vicente, combined their artistic talents and started created plates, vases, and figures in Almassera, Spain. At the time, they found their inspiration in the other great ceramic artists throughout Europe.

It wasn’t until the 1960s that their signature look started taking shape. The brothers began experimenting with elongating the lines in their figurines, giving them a contemporary, more elegant look. They also switched from triple-firing to a single-firing technique that left the colors pastel instead of bright. In 1965, they brought this unique look to the U.S. for the first time. Their first U.S. gallery and museum was opened in 1988 on Fifth Avenue in Manhattan, and their second opened in 1997 on Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills.

Creating a Lladro figurine is not a quick process. Each piece starts with a picture, from which an artist sculpts a clay model. The model is reproduced roughly in alabaster, sculptors carve the intricate details to create the molds. This process alone can take up to five years.

Once the molds are complete, liquid porcelain is poured into molds representing different sections of the figurine. The exact formulas for Lladro porcelain is a closely guarded secret, but it includes feldspar, quartz, and kaolin. Different proportions of these components are used for different purposes. The pieces are assembled and painted after the porcelain dries and fired at 2500 degrees Fahrenheit. During the firing process, the more complicated and delicate figurines are supported with porcelain pieces to keep them from breaking in the kiln.

Each completed figurine is given a name in Spanish and in English; the names often have different meanings rather than the English one being a direct translation. The names of pieces are also often changed partway throughout the line, which can sometimes make them difficult for collectors to identify.

In addition to their recognizable figurines, Lladro makes other lines of porcelain:

·         Jewelry – necklaces, earrings, pins, hair clips

·         Lighting – table lamps, floor lamps, sconces, pendant lights, chandeliers

·         Home accessories – candleholders, vases, bowls, trays, teacups, salt and pepper shakers,            mirrors

Throughout the decades, Lladro’s subjects have included flowers, human figures, animals, and religious traditions. The 21st century brought with it new concepts, including pieces with a matte white finish, black-and-white creations, and pieces with bright colors rather than pastels, showing Lladro’s ability to progress and create new art.

Whether you prefer the muted pastels from decades past that made them recognizable, or the bright colors or monochromatic palettes of their more recent creations, Lladro figurines can make a unique collection. Check out our upcoming auction that includes Asian and Christmas figurines, and a piece of talismania jewelry from Lladro.

To view these beautiful items in part one of our upcoming auction, click here.

How to Know When Your Loved One May Need Assisted Living

If you have a senior loved one living by themselves in the family home, it might be time to start talking about downsizing. They may just need a smaller place that is safer and easier to maintain, but if they need a little help with everyday living, one option is assisted living.

Look for Signs Inside the Home

If you don’t live nearby, schedule a time to go visit your loved one to see what condition the house is in. If you do live nearby, take a few extra minutes to look more closely. Before you even go inside, check the mailbox for mail that hasn’t been taken inside or newspapers that are still laying in the yard or driveway. These are signs your loved one may not be feeling well enough to pick them up each day, either physically or mentally.

Once inside, look for signs of disinterest in daily living, like unpaid bills, unopened mail, and unread magazines. If you find moldy or spoiled food in the fridge or lots of empty chip bags or candy wrappers, your loved one is probably not eating the way they should be to stay healthy. Expired medications can mean they aren’t being taken on a regular basis. Any of these issues could point to an underlying health issue that is keeping them from taking care of themselves, or it could be they are lonely or depressed.

Look for Personal Signs

Other indications of needing some help with regular tasks can be seen by looking at your loved one or talking to others. If the senior appears unkempt or disheveled, unshaven or unshowered, it may be that these daily tasks have become difficult for them to do on their own. Another small sign of struggle is they used to wear shirts with buttons and now they only wear shirts that pull over their head.

Your loved one may not tell you everything that’s going on with them because they don’t want you worry about them, but they are confiding in another, or someone else may notice things you don’t because you don’t see them on a daily basis. Talk to their friends or other relatives and see if they mention extra doctor’s appointments or times they have fallen. Their friends may mention they haven’t been attending church regularly or they no longer call to get together. A neighbor might have seen an ambulance at the house or realized your loved one doesn’t come outside as much as they used to. Again, these are all signs they may need some help.

If your loved one is in a place that is in good condition and on one floor, in-home care may be an option. Having someone check in on them daily to ensure they’re bathing, getting dressed, and eating on a regular basis can be extremely helpful, especially if you aren’t able to see them every day. However, if they need to downsize, assisted living can be a good option. It not only offers regular meals and limited assistance, it also provides social interaction that many seniors lack as they start to lose friends and relatives.

Keep in mind, assisted living does not provide full care or medical assistance. If your loved one requires constant care or is suffering from other more serious ailments that requires more specialized nursing care, they may need a skilled nursing facility. Assisted living communities differ in the amount of support they provide, and they offer consultations or evaluations before a senior becomes a resident to determine if they meet the requirements to live there. Don’t be upset if the consultant says it is not a good fit for your loved or that they need more care than the facility provides, it is better for them to be honest so you can find a place that has the appropriate level of care.

AMY WRIGHT AWARDED SENIOR MOVE MANAGER – CERTIFIED DESIGNATION BY THE NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF SENIOR MOVE MANAGERS®

The National Association of Senior Move Managers® is proud to award the Senior Move Manager~Certified (SMM-C) credential to Amy Wright of reSettled Life, Union, Ky.

The Senior Move Manager~Certified (SMM~C) credential is a three–year designation conferred on individuals who have demonstrated advanced knowledge and experience in the Senior Move Management profession. 

“NASMM’s SMM~C certification is the professional evolution of certification for Senior Move Management® professionals,” said Mary Kay Buysse, NASMM’s Executive Director. “While many certification programs only measure knowledge, the SMM~C requires experience within the profession to demonstrate proficient Senior Move Management service delivery.”

Individuals who obtain the SMM-C have elevated their professional standards and enhanced their individual performance while demonstrating the knowledge and experience essential to the Senior Move Management profession. 

About reSettled Life

reSettled Life is a senior transition and auction company serving Northern Kentucky, Cincinnati and Southeast Indiana and is the only certified, full service senior move management company in the Northern Kentucky and Greater Cincinnati area. They help families move loved ones from their homes into smaller homes, senior-friendly communities, or nursing facilities. Services include organizing, packing, unpacking, resettling, and auctions. Learn more at www.resettledlife.com.

The National Association of Senior Move Managers (NASMM) is the leading membership organization for Senior Move Managers in the United States, Canada and abroad. NASMM is recognized for its innovative programs and expertise related to Senior Move Management, transition and relocation issues affecting older adults. NASMM members represent the most qualified and capable Senior Move Managers in this growing profession. For more information contact NASMM at 877-606-2766 or info@nasmm.org. Visit the NASMM website at www.nasmm.org.

Senior Living Options Explained

Many seniors are not excited about the thought of moving, but sometimes it becomes necessary, whether it results from health issues, needing single-story living, or not being able to maintain a large home. Fortunately, there are many living options available to those 55 and over, making it easier to find a place where they can live comfortably and safely.

For Those Who Require Care

Two of the most common living options for those who require care are assisted living and skilled nursing communities. While most assisted living communities offer apartment-style living, with individual living quarters connected to the common areas by an interior hallway, some communities offer individual homes as well. Residents have their own kitchen, bath, living area, and bedroom, but they also have access to help when they need it, such as taking medications, bathing, getting dressed, or fixing meals. Assisted living also often provides transportation.

Skilled nursing communities, also known as nursing homes, provide care above and beyond what is available with assisted living. Doctors are usually on staff and make regular visits, while nursing assistants and nurses provide daily care to residents. Physical and occupational therapists are also on staff to help with rehabilitation and keep residents as physically and mentally fit as possible. All meals and snacks are provided based on medical condition and nutritional needs.

Another popular option for those who require care is in-home care. Instead of moving a senior to a new residence, a nurse visits daily or moves in to provide 24-hour care in the home. When considering this option, it’s important to find out if insurance, Medicare, or Medicaid will cover this type of care, or if there are funds available to pay for it out-of-pocket. Determining whether or not the resident can still live safely in the home, even with care, is also important. For example, even with full-time help, staying in a two-story home with no first-floor bedroom or bathroom is probably not be the best option.

For Those Who Don’t Require Care

Some seniors are quite capable of taking care of themselves, but would do better in a home without stairs, with less maintenance, or with others living around them. Loved ones in this situation would most likely do well in an active adult or independent living community. These communities can consist of single-family homes, condos, or apartments that can be either owned or rented. The common factor of these communities is they are for residents who are 55 or older. Depending on the location, style and age of residences, and amenities offered, these communities have various price ranges.

Because these communities are designed for senior living, they offer spaces that are easily accessible and activities that appeal to those 55 and over. Some are like little cities, with restaurants, workout facilities, golf courses, and swimming pools. Others have a community center where residents can meet for coffee or a potluck, or to watch a movie or play bingo. While most seniors in these communities are still able to drive, transportation to places ranging from the grocery store to an art festival is often provided. These communities offer social interaction with other seniors and a safe place to live.

For Those Who Like to Plan Ahead

Continuing-care retirement communities (CCRCs) can reduce the number of times a senior has to relocate and adjust to new surroundings. CCRCs provide different types of living options in one place. Seniors can start out in independent living, then progress to assisted and/or skilled nursing as it becomes necessary. The benefit to this type of community is knowing that the proper level of care will be available when needed without having to find a new place. The downside is this convenience and peace of mind often comes with a higher price tag.

Whichever living option makes the most sense, the move to a new residence can be made easier by hiring a senior move manager who can pack up and organize all of the belongings in the old residence and prepare the new place so it feels like home when the senior moves in.

Keeping Seniors Safe for the Holidays

The holidays are a joyful, busy time of year. There is shopping to be done and cookies to be made, homes to be decorated and friends and family to visit. Amidst all the hustle and bustle, it’s important to stay safe and make sure your senior loved ones are doing the same.

The Weather Outside Is Frightful

While the Tri-State area doesn’t get nearly as much snow as places further north, we can still have days of freezing temperatures, ice and snow. If you are a senior living on your own, you should call a reputable heating and cooling company to have your furnace checked annually. You don’t want to find out it doesn’t work in the middle of a sub-zero night. Fireplaces should also be inspected before use.

Shoveling snow and de-icing the driveway and sidewalk is tough on anyone, but it can be dangerous for those with high blood pressure or a heart condition. If you have this type of medical condition, consider asking a family member for help or hiring a service or neighbor kid to do it for you. The same goes for hanging outdoor Christmas lights in the cold and snow – it’s better to be safe than sorry. For those who want to tackle these jobs themselves, make sure you have your cell phone handy in case you fall or need help.

Maneuvering the Malls

Indoor malls are a great place to get a little exercise when it’s too cold to walk outside. Go before the stores open to avoid the crowds and focus on your power walk, or walk through the stores and pick up some gifts along the way.

Unfortunately, thieves take advantage of this time of year, so be aware of your surroundings in the parking lot, mall area, and stores. Park as close as possible to an entrance and avoid deserted parking lots where thieves may be lurking. Keep your keys in your hand when you head to your car and carry your cellphone. If you think someone is watching you, give someone a call; and if someone is coming toward you, call mall security or the police. If you are making multiple stops, stow your packages in the trunk of your car or under a blanket so they are out of sight.

Staying Healthy Over the Holidays

With holiday get-togethers and family parties, it’s easy to over-indulge. It’s fine to give yourself a little leeway when it comes to dietary restrictions, but don’t overdo it by eating too much sodium if you have high blood pressure or too much sugar if you are diabetic. And be sure to think about any medications you take before consuming alcohol, especially if you will be driving home or will need to navigate a set of stairs before the night is over. Some medications react poorly when combined with alcohol.

Take Care of the Seniors in Your Life

Senior loved ones who have recently lost a spouse, are dealing with health issues, or have had to downsize from the family home may not be feeling too cheerful this holiday season. Ask your loved one if they want to talk about the changes that have occurred, but don’t push if it is too painful. Some people may want to honor the memories of someone they lost by carrying on the same traditions, while others may prefer to do something completely different.

Offering to host the family celebration can be a good change of pace, and it can relieve the stress on a senior dealing with health issues. For many older people, traveling by car or plane can be exhausting, so don’t plan a ton of physical activities; offer to let them nap, or spend some time looking through photo albums or listening to Christmas music together instead. Objects that you safely encounter every day can be tripping hazards for seniors. Put pets in a crate who may get underfoot and clear a path through the kids’ toys; remove slippery area rugs or those that could get caught in a walker or cane. For overnight guests, be sure to have adequate lighting from the bedroom to the bathroom so they can safely navigate at night.

Taking care of yourself and your loved ones will help keep this holiday season merry and bright!

reSettling Life’s Treasures - Hadley Pottery

When you think of Louisville, horseracing, baseball bats, and Cardinals probably come to mind. But another lesser-known product of this proud city on the Ohio River is pottery made from the many clay deposits in the area. One of the many artists to embrace this natural resource was Mary Alice Hadley.

Even before Mary Alice was born in the early 1900s, her family was in the clay business, making clay tiles for use in homes and businesses. She initially expressed her artistic talent through painting, then decided to combine her personal skills with those of her family and started making clay dishware. Seeing her creations, friends started asking Mary Alice to make pieces for her, and in the mid-1940s, her husband, George, purchased a building in Butchertown that still serves as the M.A. Hadley headquarters today.

M.A. Hadley pottery is instantly recognizable by its gray background, blue band around the edge, and simple, yet whimsical design on each piece. There are many themes, each of which feature several different images. The country theme has farm animals, coastal has ships and marine creatures, seasonal has winter, Christmas, or Easter pictures, and western includes cowboys and cacti. Larges pieces, including casseroles, canister sets, and pie plates come in the same themes, and bowls, cups and dishes with different pictures are also available for children and pets.

Although it can be used for decoration, Hadley pottery is designed to be used. Its durability comes from the clay, which is over 250 million years old, and the process it goes through before being sold. Once a piece is shaped, the design is hand-painted on it, then a special glaze is applied through spraying or dipping. The pottery is fired only once at about 2100 degrees Fahrenheit, fusing together the clay, paint, and glaze. Painting the design on before the glaze – called “underglazing” – and using the one-step firing process helps ensure that the design will not wear off over time.

Because of our proximity to Louisville, online auctions and estate sales in the Tri-State area often feature Hadley Pottery, which makes starting a collection relatively easy and affordable. Whether you collect an entire set of one pattern or enjoy select pieces from different series, Hadley Pottery can be a wonderful addition to your home.

reSettling Life’s Treasures – White House Christmas Tree Ornaments

In 1981, the White House Historical Association (WHHA) created an ornament in the shape of an angel. The angel was similar to the ones found on weathervanes in the area, including on the top of Mount Vernon, and was designed to honor the presidency of George Washington. Every year since, the association has created an ornament commemorating a past president or anniversary related to the White House. Special occasions that ornaments have represented include the bicentennials of John Adams moving into the White House in 1902 and founding of the American presidency in 1989. ChemArt Manufacturing in Lincoln, Rhode Island was selected to make the first ornament in 1981, and they have made every year’s ornament since.

Here are descriptions of some of the presidential ornaments from the past:

·         1984 – One of the earliest ornaments from the collection, this one is all gold and features Thomas Jefferson on one side and the words “peace and friendship” on the other.

·         1993 – This is the only WHHA ornament featuring a first lady. Julia Tyler, John Tyler’s second wife was 30 years younger than him and only lived in the White House for nine months because his term ended less than a year after they were married.

·         1994 – Depicts James Polk (1845-1849) and his wife listening to the Marine Band outside the White House

·         1997 – This ornament features another scene outside the White House, and is set during the time of Franklin Pierce’s presidency from 1853-1857.

·         2001 – Because Andrew Johnson frequently enjoyed carriage rides to unwind after a stressful day, this ornament shows him and his family in a carriage being drawn by a white horse.

·         2014 – The only official White House ornament that is two pieces, this one commemorates Warren G. Harding (1921-1923). Harding dreamed of being a train engineer as a child and loved riding on the Presidential Special, the same train that brought his casket from San Francisco back to Washington when he suddenly passed away in 1923.

This year’s ornament honors Franklin D. Roosevelt, our thirty-second president. The four stars across the top of the ornament signify his four terms in office and the gold eagle featured on the front is fashioned after the one that adorned the speaker’s podium at his first inauguration.

If you decide to start collecting White House ornaments or want to create a collection for a loved one, be sure to invest in the right ones. Many different companies and organizations sell ornaments honoring the White House, but the official ones are designed only by the White House Historical Association. These ornaments are beautiful to hang on your tree, but are even more valuable if you have the original box they came in. Each ornament also comes with paperwork that explains the significance of the event or president depicted on it. In addition to selling the current year’s ornament, the WHHA also offers some from previous years, and they can also often be found through online auctions.

Whether you decide to hang them on the tree or treasure them as a family keepsake, White House ornaments can be a beautiful addition to your holiday season.