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Winner of 48
National Awards
of Excellence!
Page 4 – Ask the Editor Q&A n Page 6 – Technology Resources for Older Adults
Page 8 – Veterans Health & Resource Fair n Page 16 & 17 – Game Pages
PAGE PAGE PAGE
05 10 12
SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2021 n WHAT’S INSIDE THIS ISSUE
04 Ask the Editor Q&A 07 Happy Birthday, Medicare! 12 Senior Perspectives Recipes 18 Plantar Fasciitis - Has it Slowed 21 Social Security Q&A
by Michelle Fields by Vonda VanTil You Down? by Vonda VanTil
13 Food and Brain Health
by Dr. Tyler Claveau
05 Try to Remember 08 Veterans’ Health and by Elizabeth Carlson 22 Understanding the Money
by Gil Boersma Resource Fair 19 The Letter Maze for Older Adults
14 Family Fun in Grand Rapids
by Charlie Batizy by Dave Kampfschulte by Elizabeth Zeldes
06 Technology Resources
15 Let’s Try This with Michelle
for Older Adults 09 Wise Sayings 20 Sometimes It’s Less
by Emily Armstrong by Clif Martin 16 Game Page Expensive to Hire a Pro
10 A Tale of Two Gretchens by Laura Kelso
by Cindy Hogg
EDITOR & PUBLISHER WRITERS MEMBER OF Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan
Michelle Fields Emily Armstrong Information & Assistance
michelle@seniorresourceswmi.org
Charlie Batizy
231-733-3523
Gil Boersma
(616) 456-5664 or (888) 456-5664
Elizabeth Carlson aaainfo@aaawm.org | (fax) (616) 456-5692
GRAPHIC DESIGN
Dr. Tyler Claveau MEMBER OF
website: www.aaawm.org
Jay Newmarch
CRE8 Design Michelle Fields Mission:
CRE8creative@gmail.com Cindy Hogg Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan’s mission
269-345-8845 Dave Kampfschulte is to provide older persons and persons with a disability
an array of services designed to promote independence
Laura Kelso
COPY EDITOR and dignity in their homes and their communities.
Clif Martin
Bonnie Borgeson
Cathy Thibdaue
Vonda VanTil ADVERTISE in upcoming Senior Perspectives
publications by contacting:
Elizabeth Zeldes
Michelle Fields
Editor and Publisher of Senior Perspectives
(231) 733-3523 or toll free 1-800-442-0054
michelle @SeniorResourcesWMi.org
No part of this publication may be reprinted or otherwise reproduced
ON THE COVER: without written permission from the publisher.
ON THE COVER:
Glenn Rutgers
Glenn Rutgerssoftglowdigital.com Senior Perspectives Newspapers have
softglowdigital.com won 48 National Awards for Media Excellence! Like us on Facebook!
gmrutgers@yahoo.com
gmrutgers@yahoo.com www.facebook.com/SeniorPerspectives
SENIOR PERSPECTIVES - KENT COUNTY 2 SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2021
Jackie O’Connor,
Executive Director
AREA AGENCY ON AGING OF WESTERN MICHIGAN
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
Bill Routley Chair
Marilyn Burns Vice Chair
Carol Hennessy Treasurer
Richard Karns Secretary
Cynthia LaBelle Member-at-Large
Robert Sundholm Advisory Council Chair
REPRESENTATION
Richard Cain Allegan Elected Official
Stuart Peet Allegan Consumer
David Hodges Ionia Elected Official
Dennis Sitzer Ionia Consumer
Carol Hennessy Kent Elected Official
Nancy Nielsen Kent Consumer
Betty Dermyer Lake Elected Official
Marilyn Burns Lake Consumer
Ron Bacon Mason Elected Official
Kim Halladay Mason Consumer
Bill Routley Mecosta Elected Official
Sharon Bongard Mecosta Consumer
Michael Beach Montcalm Elected Official
Linda Weger Montcalm Consumer
Kenneth DeLaat Newaygo Elected Official
Cindy LaBelle Newaygo Consumer Sponsored by Page # where you found
Richard Karns Osceola Consumer the fall coffee drink
Milinda Ysasi Grand Rapids Elected Official
Jane DeVries
Thomas Peelle
Grand Rapids Consumer
AAAWM ADVISORY COUNCIL
Allegan County
I Spy Name __________________________________
Address ________________________________
City ____________________________________
Natalie Van Houten Allegan County State _______________ Zip ________________
Norma Kilpatrick Ionia County It’s easy!
Kenneth Thompson Ionia County Phone ______________________
Harold Mast Kent County
Simply find this fall
Nellie Blue Lake County coffee drink in this edition.
Robert Sundholm Mason County List where you spotted it, clip
James Thomas Mason County and return this form for the
Mary Bechaz Mecosta County
Jerrilynn Strong Mecosta County
chance to win a $20.00 gift card
Tim Reno Montcalm County to Meijer!
Ben Witbrodt Montcalm County
Helen Taube Newaygo County
Barbara Hazlett
Mary Lou Proefrock
Osceola County
Osceola County
Return to: Senior Perspectives, I Spy, 560 Seminole Rd., Muskegon, MI 49444
Priscilla Kimboko Ph.D. Grand Valley State University
Martha Burkett Kent County Veterans Services JULY/AUGUST WINNER: MIKE BEATTY OF KENTWOOD
Uncle Sam was found in the All Aboard story on page 10.
SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2021 3 SENIOR PERSPECTIVES - KENT COUNTY
Ask the
Question: I’m a snowbird and go to Florida in the winter.
Is there a way to view Senior Perspectives on-line?
Answer: Yes. You can view current and past issues of Senior Perspectives
Editor Q&A
on-line on their Area Agency on Aging websites.
• Senior Perspectives Lakeshore at https://seniorresourceswmi.org
• Senior Perspectives of Kent County at https://www.aaawm.org
As the Editor of West Michigan’s Question: Where can I pick up a
largest mature newspapers, copy of Senior Perspectives?
I thought it might be informa-
Answer: Our distribution sites include senior cen-
tive to share a few of the most
ters, libraries, pharmacies, specialty stores, private
frequently asked questions that
apartments, independent living facilities, skilled
I receive from our readers.
nursing facilities, beauty salons, financial institu-
tions, hospitals, DME providers, Senior Neighbors
BY Question: I just picked up my first copy of Senior
MICHELLE locations, adult day centers, assisted living facili-
Perspectives Lakeshore. How often is it printed?
FIELDS ties, physician’s offices, dentist’s offices, therapy
Answer: Senior Perspectives Lakeshore and Senior centers, non-profit organizations, legal offices,
Perspectives of Kent County newspapers are free, churches, and grocery stores throughout Ottawa,
bi-monthly publications brought to you by Senior Re- Muskegon, Kent and Oceana counties. If you
sources of West Michigan, an Area Agency on Aging. In need help finding a location, shoot me an e-mail at
2018, Senior Resources launched a second publication, SeniorPerspectives@SeniorResourcesWMi.org with
Senior Perspectives of Kent County partnering with the your name and address, and I’ll send you the clos-
Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan in Grand est distribution site. If you know of a location that would like to offer Senior
Rapids. As stand-alone publications, both feature local Perspectives newspapers, please let me know this as well and I can get them
writers, interest articles, programing and local events. on our distribution route.
Both publications are printed in January, March, May,
July, September, and November. Question: How can Senior Perspectives newspaper be FREE?
What’s the catch?
Question: I noticed on the cover that
you’ve won awards. What were they for? Answer: There’s no catch. Senior Perspectives news-
papers will always be a FREE publication to our
Answer: Yes, the staff, photographer and volunteer readers, thanks in part to our amazing advertisers
writers at Senior Perspectives have won 48 national and Senior Resources of West Michigan. But I also
awards over the past years. These were received from; want to mention our incredible volunteers. These
include our talented volunteer writers, photogra-
North American Mature Publishers pher Glenn Rutgers and my go-to copy editor Bon-
Association – NAMPA nie Borgeson. Without their amazing talents, Senior
Senior Perspectives is a member of NAMPA. Perspectives wouldn’t be the same.
Senior Perspectives writers and staff have
received 41 National Michelle Fields is the Editor & Publisher of Senior
Awards in Excellence. Perspectives Lakeshore and Senior Perspectives of
Kent County. Michelle has been a part of Senior
Resources of West Michigan since 2009. She enjoys
National Mature gardening, fishing with husband Mike & their pup
Media -- Tigo and spending time with her family. Michelle can be reached at Mi-
Senior Perspectives chelle@SeniorResourcesWMi.org
Newspapers have ____________________________________________________________
received a total of If you have a question, you can submit them to
7 awards from the
SeniorPerspectives@SeniorResourcesWMi.org.
Annual National Mature Media Awards held annually
in Chicago. If you would like to advertise in Senior Perspectives,
please contact Michelle at 231.733.3523
SENIOR PERSPECTIVES - KENT COUNTY 4 SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2021
that once there was a
Soul Food creator, after which came
the redeemer and now,
Try to Remember
we have the sustainer
to nurture, sustain, and
heal our lives, not just
to be blessed, but to be a
BY blessing to others. There
GIL BOERSMA, In his song “Try to Remember,” Do you wish someone, or
are lots of needs to serve
M.DIV., B.C.C. Josh Groban captures a theme of something, would surprise
right where we live. So
reaching the maturity that often you, so life would become
let us seek good health so
helps a young man or woman find another human an adventure like it used
we can be good servants,
soul who seems to fulfill a dream or desire for a to be?
and let God have all the
relationship, one that brings deeper meaning than
Historically, individuals glory. And don’t worry,
can be found alone. However, in our lives there are
and families moved to he’s got this!
also adventures and dreams that can come true for an
where new job opportu-
individual, that deepen one’s understanding of how Rev. Gilbert Boersma, BBA,
nities had been created,
work or one’s chosen education can give an individ-
or when overwhelming MDIV, is an Elder in the
ual a value beyond money and status. The meaning
climate changes like the United Methodist Church,
and symbolism of October is prosperity. The changing
Dust Bowl forced individuals and families to set off to and a Retired-Board-Certified chaplain. His wife Sara is re-
of the tree leaves to an abundance of color does not
find a better life, bringing courage to strike out with tired from Muskegon Community Mental Health and offers
discourage us but rather inspires us to enjoy creation
hope and faith. counseling privately, part-time. Their two sons, one daugh-
and be thankful for all of our blessings.
As a senior, one might think it’s too late to be adven- ter-in-law and four grandchildren also live in Muskegon. Gil
How is your life going? Have you fulfilled your hopes
turous, that life is what you made of it, and now you offers “spiritual direction” for those who have interest You
and dreams? Or are you struggling to find fulfillment
just have to make the best of it because you are not may contact him by email: boersmagil71@gmail.com
like you used to find easily when you were younger?
young anymore. However, I say our faith informs us
SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2021 5 SENIOR PERSPECTIVES - KENT COUNTY
Technology
are taught by their peers, retired entities to bring low-cost internet
educators. In addition to classes options to older adults nationwide.
on how to use certain technol- Call for support: 877-745-1930
ogy, GetSetUp also offers interest
Ideas to Maintain Connection
Resources for
groups and social hours for older
adults. https://www.getsetup.io/ If you are caring for a loved one/
partner/michigan checking in on them regularly and
running out of ideas for connection,
Older Adults
our “boredom buster” ideas could
be a good fit. We’ve put together a
list on our website www.aaawm.
org with fun activities you can
safely do from home while social
If we’ve learned Signs of Isolation Assessment distancing. This list is broken down
anything this The AARP Foundation offers a free into two categories: ideas for those
past year of Connect 2 Affect online assessment using “online/technology” and
the pandemic to measure social isolation. This ideas for those without, so there is a
it is that con- can be taken by or on behalf of an little something for everyone!
nection with individual. It involves a series of 10
others is key to questions and offers resources de- Emotional Support for Older
our wellbeing. pending on the answers provided. Adults and Their Family
BY
According to Visit www.connect2affect.org Caregivers
EMILY
ARMSTRONG the University Older Adults Technology
Michigan StayWell Counseling
of Michigan’s Making IT Easier Video Series Services (OATS) and Senior is available for those who are
National Poll on Healthy Aging*, in At the Area Agency on Aging Planet feeling overwhelmed. If you are
June of 2020 more than half (56%) of Western Michigan we recog- Senior Planet is their flagship experiencing emotional distress
of older adults reported feeling iso- nized the need for older adults to program, providing courses, in the context of COVID-19, call
lated from others, compared to just use technology. The “Making IT programs, and activities to help the COVID-19 Hotline at 1-888-
27% in 2018. The way we go about Easier” video series was designed seniors learn new skills, save 535-6136 and press “8” to talk to a
engaging with others has certainly to teach older adults how to use money, get in shape, and make Michigan Stay Well counselor at no
changed due to the pandemic, technology to enhance their lives. new friends. You sign up for their cost. The Area Agency on Aging of
which could have contributed to You can check out these videos newsletter and participate in online Western Michigan is also offering a
the increase in social isolation as on our website, including lessons offerings at https://seniorplanet. Family Caregiver Support Group
well. Gone are the group meals, on how to use Facetime, ordering org/ that meets once a week on Tuesday
in-person outings with friends, and grocery delivery via Shipt, getting mornings via Zoom. You can learn
trips. Instead there has been a large a ride with Lyft, and more. www. AGING Connected more at www.caregiverresource.net
emphasis on taking these social aaawm.org/tech In this OATS and AARP partner-
interactions online. This can prove *https://www.healthyagingpoll.org/
ship, their most important finding
to be a bit of a barrier for older GetSetUp Michigan Emily Armstrong is the Public Rela-
is the enormous number of Ameri- tions and Communications Specialist
adults, and understandably so, as The Michigan Department of can seniors – an estimated 21.8 mil- at AAAWM. She enjoys exploring
there are many websites, devices, Health and Human Services lion – who still do not have broad- Michigan with her husband and their
and applications to navigate when partnered with GetSetUp, a digital band access to the internet. They labradoodle, Moose. On the weekends
trying to use technology. We’ve put education platform for older recognize the need for internet you can usually find her cheering on
together a list of some of the top adults, to offer 150+ technology access across the US and sought to the Spartans, camping, practicing
resources that can help. and enrichment classes. What partner with telecommunications photography, or reading.
is unique is that these classes companies, nonprofits, and public
SENIOR PERSPECTIVES - KENT COUNTY 6 SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2021
Happy Birthday, Medicare!
This past July marked the 56th anniversary of Medicare. with their Medicare prescription drug plan costs. To www.medicare.gov/plan-compare
Did you know you can apply for Medicare online even qualify for Extra Help, a person must be receiving Medi- • Which doctors, health care providers, and suppliers
if you are not ready to start your care, have limited resources and income, and reside in participate in Medicare? www.medicare.gov/forms-
retirement benefits? Applying online one of the 50 states or the District of Columbia. Read help-resources/find-compare-doctors-hospitals-other-
can take less than 10 minutes. There our publication Understanding the Extra Help With Your providers
are no forms to sign and we usually Medicare Prescription Drug Plan for more information at
• Where can I find out more about a Medicare prescrip-
require no additional documentation. www.ssa.gov/pubs/EN-05-10508.pdf.
tion drug plan (Part D) and enroll? www.medicare.
We’ll process your application and
The official Medicare website at Medicare.gov offers gov/drug-coverage-part-d/how-to-get-prescription-
contact you if we need more infor-
many online services where you can find answers to drug-coverage
mation.
these questions:
BY • Where can I find a Medicare Supplement Insurance
VONDA Knowing when to apply for Medi-
• What does Medicare cover? www.medicare.gov/ (Medigap) policy in my area? www.medicare.gov/
VANTIL care is very important. You have a
what-medicare-covers medigap-supplemental-insurance-plans
limited initial enrollment period to
apply. If you miss the initial enrollment period, you • Where do I find forms for filing a Medicare appeal? Please share these helpful resources with friends and
may have to pay a higher monthly premium. If you’re www.medicare.gov/claims-appeals/how-do-i-file- family today.
eligible for Medicare at age 65, your initial enrollment an-appeal
Vonda Van Til is the Public Affairs Specialist for West Michi-
period begins three months before your 65th birthday • How can I let someone speak with Medicare on my gan. You can write her c/o Social Security Administration,
and ends three months after that birthday. Visit www. behalf? www.medicare.gov/claims-appeals/file-an- 3045 Knapp NE, Grand Rapids MI 49525 or via email at
ssa.gov/benefits/medicare to apply for Medicare and appeal/can-someone-file-an-appeal-for-me vonda.vantil@ssa.gov.
find other important information.
• What do Medicare health and prescription drug plans
Some Medicare beneficiaries may qualify for Extra Help in my area cost, and what services do they offer?
FREE INFORMATION
FREE INFORMATION
FREE INFORMATION
FREE INFORMATION FREE INFORMATION FREE INFORMATION
SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2021 7 SENIOR PERSPECTIVES - KENT COUNTY
Veterans’ Health and Resource Fair
Benefits for Veterans and Their Families
Abraham Lincoln’s immortal words be- be available to discuss information on
came the VA motto in 1959, “… to care available programs and assistance.
for him who shall have borne the battle
We are encouraging veterans and fam-
and for his widow, and his orphan.”
ily members to bring their discharge
The use of Lincoln’s words as the VA
papers to this event (form DD-214). If
motto can be traced to Sumner G. Whit-
you cannot find your discharge papers,
tier, administrator of
we can help you get a copy. If anyone
what was then called
wants to find lost medals or person-
the Veterans Admin-
nel files, we can help you obtain these
istration, who had
as well; this could include medals and
plaques with these
files of veterans who served in the two
words installed at the
World Wars.
VA.*
Please call Charlie Batizy at (616) 218-
BY The Vietnam War
5635 for an event update, or if you are
CHARLIE ended on May 7,
BATIZY unable to attend. I will help you connect
1975. As the brother
to the appropriate organization to meet
of a veteran with a
your needs.
100% disability, I know his fight will
never end. Fortunately, a grateful nation * https://www.va.gov › opa › publica-
recognized his sacrifice. However, many tions › celebrate › vamotto
veterans are unaware of their earned
Csanad (Charlie) Batizy, a Western Michigan
benefits and how the benefits can help
The Michigan Armory at 1200 44th help your friend sign up. University MBA graduate, has been conduct-
their loved ones. Many are suffering
ing briefings through various Veteran service
from wounds seen and unseen, includ- Street SW, Wyoming and veteran ser-
The Veteran’s Health and Resource Fair organizations, such as the American Legion,
ing PTSD and illnesses related to Agent vice organizations are hosting the third
is for all veterans, not just for veterans VFW, and AMvets in their Veteran Initiative
Orange. Spouses of injured or diseased annual Veterans’ Health and Resource
who were in theatre. The Veterans’ Af- Programs, for nearly a decade. He works as
veterans may be eligible for benefits also. Fair on Saturday, November 13, 2021,
fairs staff will be present to discuss the an extension of Advocate Health Advisors,
for veterans, family members, and benefits for all veterans. Members of the
Americans have been involved in Gulf a Veteran owned and operated organization.
supporters. Veterans are encouraged to American Legion, VFW, AmVet, Order
Wars since August 2, 1990, yet many Charlie Batizy can be contacted at cbatizy@
veterans know almost nothing about bring their discharge papers to the event of the Purple Heart, the Michigan Vet- patriot.agency or at (616) 218-5635.
Gulf War Syndrome. We can discuss this to be signed up for the VA. If you are a eran Service Agency, and other veteran
as well. friend of a veteran, please come to not-for-profit organizations will also
SENIOR PERSPECTIVES - KENT COUNTY 8 SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2021
Martin’s Meanderings
Wise Sayings
At age 91.5, I should probably be saying some
wise things to our younger generations. So,
here are a few gems I’ve heard along the way.
Some are fresh out of the oven and others are
only half baked.
• Women take things pretty seriously. Men do
not take things seriously enough. Women and
BY
CLIF men are basically incompatible.
MARTIN
• What a strange feeling when you watch your
adult offspring go through the same parent-
ing traumas, tragedies and triumphs that you lived with when they
were young. You can laugh, cry, remember or try to forget. Or just
pray a lot.
• It gets easier to deal with apparent paradoxes. Two ideas that seem
to totally contradict each other. I love the old gospel song, “His eye is
on the Sparrow and I know He watches me.” At the same time, I am
not all that important in the grand scheme of things and the world FREE INFORMATION FREE INFORMATION FREE INFORMATION
will get along quite well without me. I don’t find a big paradox there.
FREE INFORMATION
• Everything matters when you are young. There are things you
must take seriously to live a productive life. When you get way up
Mail Us for FREE Information
in years you remember the often-quoted line, “Ultimately, nothing For free materials on local housing opportunities,
matters.” Supposedly those words were first spoken to the dying contact us! Let us know who you would like
President Woodrow Wilson by an unnamed aide. Whoever said it, to hear from and we’ll provide your information
it’s an interesting idea to think about. to those advertisers.
The word “legend” is tossed around pretty
o Mission Point, Pg 5 o Pilgrim Manor, Pg 17
FREE INFORMATION
loosely. I am a 91-year-old legend from
writing in this publication for 20 years o Grand Brook, Pg 7 o Clark Retirement/
and flapping my lips on the radio for o Samaritas, Pg 11 Keller Lake, Pg 24
almost 50. Anybody can be a legend.
It’s easy. Just be old or dead.
o Beacon Hill, Pg 15
If you have nothing better to Name ________________________________________________
do, stay tuned for more Mar-
Address ______________________________________________
FREE INFORMATION
tin Meanderings and further
philosophical foolishness.
City ______________________ State ________ Zip ___________
You can find Clif on Phone _________________ Email__________________________
Facebook as Clif
Walter Martin. Please mail form to: Senior Resources, Attn: Community Living,
560 Seminole Rd., Muskegon, MI 49444
SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2021 9 SENIOR PERSPECTIVES - KENT COUNTY
A Tale of Two Gretchens
“Silver Linings” from the Pandemic
Everyone in Michi- passed away a few parks short of the Two granddaughters, ages 5 and 9, had
gan knows the total, but she and her owner hit the fun feeding the ducks, and the older
first Gretchen, our majority of the parks, creating many one climbed a tree – exactly what I
governor Gretchen happy memories along the way. would have done at her age!
BY Whitmer. She’s not
CINDY I was impressed by the dog’s age and On our next visit, we checked out the
HOGG always popular, but
spirit, but I was just as impressed by nicely landscaped playgrounds then
I don’t envy anyone
the fact that our small city has twelve headed back along the lake where,
in a leadership role who has had to
parks. Who knew? I certainly didn’t! quite by happenstance, we discovered
deal with the challenges and ever-
So in the spirit of Natalie and her late, a monarch caterpillar on a milkweed
changing landscape of this pandemic.
great hound dog, I decided to explore plant. Fortunately, I had a “critter cage”
The result of Gov. Whitmer’s restric- local parks – only with some of my in my car so we brought the little guy
tions, along with the recommendations local grandchildren in tow instead of a home with us. Sharing him with the
of other health officials, was to send dog. I also decided I would start with other local grandkids, we enjoyed ob-
us outdoors as much as possible – out the ones within a 5-mile radius of my serving the entire cycle from caterpillar
into the fresh air and sunshine and house. to chrysalis to Monarch butterfly!
wide-open spaces – but closer to home,
First on the list was Heritage Park, On our third visit, we returned him
rather than traveling far afield.
which is technically not in Wyoming to his original spot by the lake. With
During this time, I ran across the story but just across the line in Grandville. a little encouragement, he finally left
of a second Gretchen: a 19-year-old Still, it’s only 5.3 miles from my house the butterfly cage. We watched him
beagle who lives in our community. Or, and just up the road from two of my dip and swoop over the lake – and
I should say, lived. Nineteen is pretty grandchildren, so it seemed like a good then return to us! He landed on a
old for a beagle – or any dog – but this starting point. nearby bush, enabling the girls to say
intrepid canine and her owner, Natalie, good-bye to him. We learned from our
Previously, I simply had no idea this
decided to visit all twelve of the parks research that early summer Monarchs
park existed…and it’s vast and beauti-
in our city of Wyoming, Michigan, live for only eight weeks but that late
ful! There’s even a lake in the middle.
during the pandemic. Sadly, Gretchen summer monarchs – like this one –
SENIOR PERSPECTIVES - KENT COUNTY 10 SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2021live for eight months and migrate all
the way to Mexico. Bon voyage, little
friend. Safe travels!
What a fun adventure for my grand-
children, all because we spent time at
this hidden gem of a park within just
five miles of my house. I am still con-
founded that I never knew this park
existed when it is so close to where
I live. That’s been the silver lining of
this pandemic – discovering treasures
closer to home.
Even more surprising was next visiting
afternoon, my seven-year-old grand-
a park less than a mile from my house!
daughter and I decided to bike there.
I did know this one existed because,
What a wonderful discovery: a long,
just up the road from our neighbor-
lovely trail along streams and a series
hood, I had passed the sign for “Buck
of small ponds, ending at yet another
Creek Nature Trail” dozens of times.
local park (Lemery Park), with a lovely
But from the road, only a parking lot
playground. On the way back, we
along a tree line was visible. It just
explored stream banks, finding deer
didn’t look that intriguing. Tired of be-
prints in the mud, and tossed twigs
ing cooped up, however, and lured by
into the water to watch them float
an unusually warm early November
downstream.
Simple pleasures. Simply perfect after-
noon.
So, what’s within five miles of your
house?
What hidden local treasures did you
discover during this pandemic?
Cynthia Hogg, LBSW, is the Care Coun-
selor for the Alzheimer’s Association’s
Dementia Support Program. She is a
freelance writer whose passion is travel,
especially with her grandchildren. She
is the founder of the blog skipgentravel-
guru.com.
SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2021 11 SENIOR PERSPECTIVES - KENT COUNTYCathay’s
Cooking Corner
BY
CATHAY
THIBDAUE
BY
ELIZABETH
CARLSON
AAAWM Eats
Save the Herbs! olive oil will turn a creamy yellow color after
solidifying.
Fresh herbs are a great way to add flavor in 6. Save cubes for later and enjoy in your
your favorite dish, but can be hard to come favorite dishes in the winter! The cubes Homemade Broccoli and Cheddar Soup
by in cooler seasons. Whether you grow your can be stored in the ice cube tray for 2-3
own herbs at home or tend to have extra that months if covered by plastic wrap, or they 4 tablespoons butter Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer mixture
aren’t being used, this recipe is an easy fix to can be stored in a plastic or reusable freezer 1 small onion diced until thickened, about 10 minutes. Add broccoli,
help save your herbs for later use in soups, safe bag for 3-6 months. 3 tablespoons flour carrot. Simmer until vegetables are tender yet
salad dressings, scrambled eggs, or any skillet crisp, about 20 minutes.
Tips for freezing garlic: ½ teaspoon nutmeg
dishes. • If making cubes of just garlic, add desired Reduce heat to low. Add Cheddar cheese to
1 clove garlic
Herbs of your choice. amount of minced garlic and fill with oil until soup and cook, stirring occasionally, until cheese
1 cup half-and-half
• Examples include: spinach, mint, parsley, the cube is half full, otherwise you may have melts, about 5 minutes
basil, oregano, chives, garlic and more. 2 cups chicken broth
too much oil when using it in a recipe.
2 cups coarsely chopped broccoli florets Cathay is the Network Manager, Certified
Ice cube trays. • You can combine garlic and spinach or garlic
1 carrot, chopped HIPAA Security Professional, Certified
• Silicone trays work best for removing the and other herbs together in an ice cube for
Medical Practice Security Professional,
cubes but regular trays also work more flavor! 2 cups shredded mild or sharp Cheddar cheese
Certified PCI-DSS Security Compliance
Olive oil Elizabeth Carlson is a Clinical Dietetics Salt and ground black pepper to taste Professional, Certified Healthcare
Plastic wrap graduate student at Grand Valley State Cybersecurity Professional, and has a
Melt butter in a large pot over medium-high
1. Wash herbs and let dry completely. University. She received her Bachelor’s degree heat; add garlic and onion and sauté until tender, Certificate of Leadership in Healthcare
2. Mince herbs with a sharp knife. in Clinical Exercise Science and hopes to work about 3 to 4 minutes. Whisk in flour, nutmeg and Management Proficiency at Senior
3. Fill the ice cube tray with 2/3 herbs and 1/3 as a Registered Dietitian in the near future. In continue to stir until mixture turns golden brown, Resources of West Michigan. She also
olive oil. her free time, Elizabeth loves to spend time about 5 minutes. Slowly add half-and-half to enjoys boating, fishing, and spending
4. Cover the ice cube tray with plastic wrap outside with her dogs, playing volleyball with garlic and onion mixture, stirring until mixture is time with her family.
or a lid. friends or hiking with her boyfriend. smooth. Add chicken broth; season with salt and
5. Freeze cubes for 24 hours or until solid. The ground black pepper.
SENIOR PERSPECTIVES - KENT COUNTY 12 SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2021Food and Brain Health
BY As the body ages, It’s important to note that the foods in the
ELIZABETH it becomes increas- “What to Limit” list are just that -- limited
CARLSON
ingly important to but not completely eliminated. When we
protect both mental tell ourselves we can never eat a food,
and physical wellness. Although diet is it often backfires and makes us want it
commonly associated with the latter, there more. So, if you have a steak, enjoy it, and
is strong research suggesting a correlation try to pair it with a salad or berries.
between food choice and cognitive func-
During the fall and winter months, eating
tion. Brain health and related disorders
enough berries and leafy greens may
such as dementia have been studied to
require more creativity. Planning meals
respond to the presence or lack of certain
ahead of time or finding unique ways to
foods such as omega-3 fatty acids, leafy
incorporate these foods into your routine
vegetables and nuts.
will help to ensure that you are protecting
In 2015, the Mediterranean-DASH In- your brain health. Smoothies, yogurt and
tervention for Neurodegenerative Delay oatmeal all pair well with berries, while
(MIND) diet was created as a compilation omelets, wraps, and soups are a great
of food guidelines to support healthy place to introduce more leafy vegetables.
brain function and reduce the risk of The “AAAWM Eats” recipe in this issue
chronic cognitive disease. shows another way to get greens such
Two staples of the MIND diet are green, as spinach in your diet over the fall and
leafy vegetables and berries. Kale, spin- winter. As you are focusing on these food
ach, broccoli and collard greens are rich Here are some foods to focus on and What to Limit groups, remember that a salad a day may
in nutrients such as lutein, vitamin K, foods to decrease when following the help keep dementia away.
folate and beta carotene. These nutrients MIND eating plan: o Red meat: Less than 4 servings per
Elizabeth Carlson is a Clinical Dietetics
have been shown to protect the brain week
against cognitive decline and diseases like What to Eat o Cheese: Less than 1 serving per week
graduate student at Grand Valley State Uni-
Alzheimer’s. Berries such as strawberries, versity. She received her Bachelor’s degree in
o Green leafy vegetables: 6 or more serv- o Pastries or sweets: Less than 5 serv- Clinical Exercise Science and hopes to work
blackberries, blueberries and raspberries
are rich in antioxidants. Antioxidants aid ings per week ings per week as a Registered Dietitian in the near future.
in brain health by protecting cells against o Berries: 2 or more servings per week o Fried foods: Less than 5 servings per In her free time, Elizabeth loves to spend time
free radicals that are harmful to the body. o Nuts: 5 or more servings per week week outside with her dogs, playing volleyball with
Antioxidants also aid in reducing inflam- friends or hiking with her boyfriend.
o Beans: 3 or more servings per week
mation and repairing cell damage.
SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2021 13 SENIOR PERSPECTIVES - KENT COUNTYFamily Fun in Grand Rapids
Frederik Meijer Gardens Announce Latest Events and Exhibits
showcase the chrysanthemum through the artistry
of many designers, among them our own Frederik
Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park horticulture
staff. In the Gunberg Corridor, a different local
floral designer each week will create a singular
arrangement highlighting the chrysanthemum as
its primary element.
Of equal note are stunning displays in the Grace
Jarecki Seasonal Display Greenhouse, Earl and
Donnalee Holton Victorian Garden Parlor, and
Lena Meijer Tropical Conservatory, each lush and
Chrysanthemums & More! lovely.
Herb & Gourd Fest
September 17 – October 31, 2021 September 18 & 19, 2021
Discover a variety of ways to use herbs and
An annual celebration of autumn, Chrysanthe- gourds in this fall event. A variety of gourds will
mums & More! is the largest of its kind in Michi- be available for purchase.
gan, featuring expansive chrysanthemum displays,
fall foliage and family-friendly activities.
Part art, and part science, Chrysanthemums &
More! celebrates its 23rd year with a curious look
into how the interplay of light and shadow trans-
form the Autumn Glow theme at Frederik Meijer
Treat your senses with a trek into the crisp fall air.
Gardens & Sculpture Park.
Venture onto the Stuart and Barbara Padnos Roof-
A perennial favorite and the largest of its kind in top Sculpture Garden, with its seasonal wetland
Michigan, our exhibition spans thousands of blos- views, then make your way to the Lena Meijer
soms across 158 sprawling acres. Peruse pathways Children’s Garden and its cornucopia of chry-
aglow with vibrant fall plantings, paying attention santhemums, intermingled with nontraditional Fall Bonsai Show
to how their look and mood change as you move autumn plantings to form a quilt-like tapestry.
from the intensity of sun-filled spaces to the un- Continue to Michigan’s Farm Garden, where the October 2 & 3, 2021
derstated low light of autumn afternoons. Watch abundant autumn harvest boasts heirloom vegeta- See a variety of bonsai on display, from trees in
textures soften and shadows elongate as the light bles, herbs, gourds and larger-than-life pumpkins. early stages of training to lovely older trees. Watch
of day takes hues from warm to cool. Each display This example of a working family farm occasion- bonsai artists at work and shop for bonsai trees as
is a visual spectacle of flowers and foliage, appear- ally provides some of its more than 40 varieties of well as bonsai tools and supplies.
ing to glow from within. produce for our James & Shirley Balk Café.
Plentiful plantings in the Grand Entry, Welcome Fall wouldn’t be the same without you. Come For more information about Meijer Gardens,
Center, and Gunberg and BISSELL corridors glow with us! visit meijergardens.org
SENIOR PERSPECTIVES - KENT COUNTY 14 SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2021You are never too old to try something new. Try this fun experiment with your neighbor, friend or grandchildren. SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2021 15 SENIOR PERSPECTIVES - KENT COUNTY
Senior
Resources
G
A P
M A
E G
Sponsored
E by
Game
Page
Answers
on Page 23
SENIOR PERSPECTIVES - KENT COUNTY 16 SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2021SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2021 17 SENIOR PERSPECTIVES - KENT COUNTY
Plantar Fasciitis –
Has it Slowed You Down?
Have you ever wo- If it sounds like you may be suffering
ken up in the morn- from plantar fasciitis then it may be
ing and stepped time for you to make an appointment
out of bed only to with your local podiatrist. Your doctor
be met by a sharp, will likely examine your foot to deter-
shooting pain in the mine where the pain is coming from
heel of your foot? and then perform an x-ray. Often, the
BY If this sounds like x-ray may show that you have what is
DR. TYLER you, then you may referred to as a heel spur. A common
CLAVEAU be suffering from misconception is that this is what is
a very common causing your pain, but actually the
condition known as plantar fasciitis. heel spur is often the result of the
Approximately, 2 million patients a pull of the plantar fascia and is very
year are affected by this condition, unlikely to be the cause of pain.
and many more go undiagnosed.
Luckily, plenty of treatment options
On the bottom of your foot there is a exist to combat this condition. First,
broad, dense ligament that runs from your doctor will likely teach you
the heel of your foot into your toes; stretching techniques to help stretch
this ligament is known as the plantar out the plantar fascia on a daily basis.
fascia. The plantar fascia serves some Along with the stretching exercises,
very important purposes: it supports its very common to start wearing
the arch of the foot, assists in shock orthotics in a good supportive shoe
absorption, and aids in propelling to help support the plantar fascia
your body forward. Repetitive stretch- throughout the day. Occasionally, if
ing and tearing of this ligament can the pain persists your doctor may
irritate and inflame the fascia, causing provide a small injection of low-
you pain. Symptoms of plantar fas- dose steroid into the plantar fascia
ciitis can be broad but almost always to relieve pain and inflammation.
involve sharp pain to the bottom of Other treatment options exist as well
your heel. Typically, the pain is worse such as: anti-inflammatory medica-
with the first few steps in the morning tions, ultrasound therapy, physical
or after a period of rest, but improves therapy, and night splints. Very rarely,
as you get up and start moving. some patients may require surgery to
release the plantar fascia and remove
While there are many causes of
the tension from the ligament. But rest
plantar fasciitis, the most common ap-
assured, there is an answer to relieve
pears to be biomechanical in nature.
your pain!
Individuals who excessively pronate,
or roll their feet inward while walk- Dr. Tyler Claveau is trained in both fore-
ing, are at a higher risk to develop foot and rearfoot reconstructive surgery,
plantar fasciitis. Other common correcting conditions such as bunions,
causes include: flatfeet, high arches, flatfeet, and traumatic injuries. He is
tight or short Achilles tendon, obesity, physician at Shoreline Foot & Ankle As-
long distance running, being on your sociates with his office in Ludington. www.
feet for long periods of time, and even shorelinefaa.com
pregnancy.
SENIOR PERSPECTIVES - KENT COUNTY 18 SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2021The Letter ily members. It gives me a chance
to say just what the impact of that
person was on me. The family has
a keepsake and I have had a chance
to reflect over several weeks on my
thoughts about this person.
BY
Giving and receiving If someone is terminally ill and I
know that, I do my best to write them
a letter before they die. From my hos-
pice work writing Life Stories for pa-
meaning in words
DAVE
KAMPFSCHULTE tients, I have learned it is important
to know that we have had an impact
on others. It is probably the question
most of us ask at some point. Did
my life have meaning? The answer is
Some of you reading this may have found in The Letter. The letter helps
noticed the title of this article is the them with that realization, and it
same as the music hit The Letter by helps me to realize the impact they
the Boxtops in 1967. I am sure you had on me. It is a win/win. Wouldn’t
thought to yourself, “Isn’t this nice, you rather receive a letter like that
Dave is going to talk about ‘60s before you die, rather than having
music.” Alas, that is not the case. This your relatives get one after the fact?
article is about letters written with Here is the deal. To get a letter like
feeling, but not about the Boxtops. that, it takes someone to write it.
Sorry.
Writing that letter can be a bit over-
In our high speed, high tech world, whelming. I find that jotting a thank
emails or texts seem to be the pre- you or “thinking of you” note is a
ferred way of communication. True, good way to get your feet wet. Mom
they are highly efficient and a fast would write little notes to family
way to go. But I believe that some members, encouraging them as they
of the feeling gets lost after sending entered a new phase of life and usu-
them on their way, hitting the send Funeral home visitations have always him, at least for our relatives, and ally wrapped around a story from her
button with a dramatic poke of the been awkward for me. There is usu- watched him “pay his respects.” He own life. They are family treasures.
finger. In the words of another ‘60s ally a huge crowd and long lines to would stay the whole two hours
song we seem to “have lost that lov- talk to the survivors of the deceased. and tell friends and family members It is not that hard. If you forgot your
ing feeling.” I will try to make that I do get a chance to talk, but it is stories, usually humorous, about the cursive or it is illegible, you can do
the last reference to ‘60s music! usually brief, never enough time to deceased and their relationship. It what I do – print. As that old Boxtop
convey my thoughts beyond, “Sorry was his way to start his own grieving song goes, “Give me a ticket for an
I have returned to writing letters with for your loss.” I find myself thinking, process but also to let the survivors airplane, I ain’t got time for a fast train.”
pen and paper. It gives me a chance “There has to be a better way.” know that their loved one had an You don’t need to spend money on
to gather my thoughts and reflect on impact on others. the ticket; all you have to do is find
the person at hand. Deeper thoughts My better way is courtesy of my dad. some paper, pen, and a quiet place to
and words come from the recesses of He religiously read the obituaries, When Dad died people came up to write your letter.
my brain. After a trickle starts they and, as he was a lifelong resident of me and said, “We loved having your
seem to form into a flowing stream, Grand Rapids he knew many, many dad come to the funeral home! He Dave Kampfschulte is the Director of
stimulated by having a pen in my people in town. “Paying his respects” made us smile and made us appreci- Amazing Circle Workshops and an
hand. was a priority for him. I remember ate our family member in a new way, instructor at Aquinas College’s OLLI
him calling across the house to Mom, with an aspect of their life we did not program. He is the author of I’m Dy-
One place this has really come in “We need to go to the mortuary to- know.” ing to Talk with You: 25 years of end of
handy is writing letters to family morrow night, as ______ has died.”
I have adapted his approach with life conversations. He can be reached at
members of the recently deceased.
As I got older, I often went with a twist. I write a letter to the fam- dave@amazingcircles.net
SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2021 19 SENIOR PERSPECTIVES - KENT COUNTYAging in Place
Sometimes It’s Less
BY
LAURA
KELSO
Expensive to Hire a Pro
I don’t know about you, but I love certain you ultimately need to hire someone to
commercials. Not every commercial, of “fix” what you just fixed?
course, but the ones that make us feel like 3. Are you physically able to perform this
superheroes. I might be sitting on the couch repair without putting yourself in harm’s
with a bowl of ice cream when the Home way? Serious, even fatal falls often start
Depot announcer says, “Let’s DO THIS!” with a well-intentioned look at the roof.
The cool music in the background, and the
4. Could an incorrect repair be dangerous
enthusiasm, make me start to think about
to you or your family? A roof leak is one
what walls need to be painted. Or maybe I
thing; a gas leak is another.
should paint my kitchen cabinets! Perhaps
I should tear them all out and install new 5. Will not hiring a licensed professional
ones. Heck, I might as well do the whole affect your ability to sell your house? If
kitchen. After all, I GOT this! you have no intention to sell in the near
future--- who cares! If you know you will
If my husband had a dollar for every time
be selling your home soon, this is an impor-
I morphed from a couch potato into a “DIY of the roof, furnace, water heater, and electrical tant consideration.
warrior” he would be a rich man. The truth is, I systems. When buyers are considering whether
feel a great sense of satisfaction when a project 6. If you are using a friend who is also a contrac-
to purchase a home, they not only want to know
turns out the way I planned. As a homeowner, tor, will they guarantee their work just like they
that repairs were done correctly, but they also
house flipper, and real estate broker, I have also would for any other client?
want PROOF. Some repairs even require permits
learned that the outcome does not always match and inspections by a township official upon Use these questions as a starting point when
my original vision. completion. The Sellers Disclosure Statement considering the long-term benefits of doing any
specifically asks sellers to disclose if their home project yourself. If you have a critical repair you
The Correlation Between DIY had “structural modifications, alterations, or cannot afford, look for assistance resources in
and Your Home Value repairs made without necessary permits or li- your area. At the end of the day, if you have the
When I’m working with prospective sellers, one censed contractors?” So, if Uncle Henry built his time, talent, and drive to complete home projects
of the very first things they ask is, “How much own house and says he can replace your water on your own, grab your tools and get to work!
is my house worth?” That is a fair question. heater for $200, should you let him? Once again,
it depends. Laura Kelso is an Associate Broker with NextHome
The answer is, “It depends.” House values in
Champions Real Estate who specializes in downsiz-
any given area are determined by the price of ing. She created the Grand Rapids Savvy Senior
recently sold comparable homes. While this is Questions to Help You Decide Learning Series (currently on hold) to educate and
a complex process, for simplicity’s sake we will 1. Do you enjoy fixing things yourself, or is sav- empower older adults and their families on topics as-
just say the main criteria for comparison is size, ing money your only reason to muddle through sociated with safe living options. For more info, visit
aesthetic desirability, and mechanical updates. on your own? GRSavvyseniors.com or contact Laura at 616-724-
7200 or LauraTkelso@gmail.com.
Mechanical updates include things like the age 2. Are you good at fixing things yourself, or will
SENIOR PERSPECTIVES - KENT COUNTY 20 SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2021ing your my Social Security account. Go to Medicare Part D. Call Social Security at
www.ssa.gov/myaccount for more infor- 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) or
mation on how to create an account. You visit any Social Security office. Also, see
also can get a replacement Medicare card our publication, Medicare, at www.ssa.
by calling us toll-free at 1-800-772-1213 gov/pubs/10043.html. For even more
(TTY 1-800-325-0778). Keep your card in a information, visit www.ssa.gov.
safe place. You don’t want anyone getting
Question: I have medical coverage
hold of your Social Security number. They
through my employer. Do I have to
could steal your identity.
take Medicare Part B?
Question: Is it true that if you have
Answer: You are not required to take
low income you can get help paying
Medicare Part B if you are covered by a
your Medicare premiums?
group healthcare plan based on either
Answer: Yes. If your income and resourc- your employment or the employment of
es are limited, your state may be able to a spouse. When your coverage ends, you
help with your Medicare Part B premium, may contact Social Security to request a
deductibles, and coinsurance amounts. special enrollment for Medicare Part B. We
State rules vary on the income and re- will need to verify your coverage through
sources that apply. Contact your state or your employer in order for you to be
local medical assistance, social services, or eligible for a special enrollment. For more
welfare office, or call the Medicare hotline, information, visit www.medicare.gov.
1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227), and
ask about the Medicare Savings Programs. Vonda Van Til is the Public Affairs Special-
If you have limited income and resources, ist for West Michigan. You can write her c/o
you also may be able to get help paying Social Security Administration, 3045 Knapp
for prescription drug coverage under NE, Grand Rapids MI 49525 or via email at
vonda.vantil@ssa.gov.
Question: I insurance
will rely on doesn’t cover.
Medicare
• Part C
Questions
when I retire.
(Medicare
Can you ex-
Advantage
plain the dif-
ferent parts and Answers plans): If you
have Medicare
of Medicare?
Parts A and B,
Answer: The you can join a
different parts Medicare Ad-
of Medicare vantage plan.
cover your Private com-
specific needs. There are four panies offer Medicare Advantage
parts, all of which work in plans, which are approved by
tandem to deliver healthcare Medicare. These plans generally
services: help you pay the medical costs
not covered by Medicare Part A
• Part A (hospital insurance): and B.
Helps pay for inpatient care in a BY
hospital or skilled nursing facility VONDA • Part D (prescription drug cov-
VANTIL erage): Helps pay for medications
(following a hospital stay), some
home health care, and hospice doctors prescribe for treatment.
care. Question: I lost my Medicare card.
• Part B (medical insurance): Helps pay How can I get replacement?
for doctors services and many other
Answer: The easiest and newest way to
medical services and supplies that hospital
get a replacement Medicare card is by us-
SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2021 21 SENIOR PERSPECTIVES - KENT COUNTYBY ELIZABETH
ZELDES,
CPA, CDMM
Understanding
the Money Maze
for Older Adults
Isabel lives alone in a modest house Martha’s husband recently passed
she has owned for over 50 years. She away. He had always taken care of
has no children, but her niece pops the family finances and paperwork
in from time to time. On one of those and she feels stressed and lost. Mar-
visits, Isabel’s niece noticed a stack tha’s two sons live out of state and
of unopened mail on top of the re- she is estranged from her daughter.
frigerator and her aunt complained
Both Isabel and Martha are worried
about all the letters from the bank.
about their finances. Their families
SENIOR PERSPECTIVES - KENT COUNTY 22 SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2021want to help but aren’t sure where resources and programs available Alzheimer’s a few years later. With Elizabeth is the manager of CPA for Se-
to turn or what to do. In today’s locally. Since daily money manag- the help of a coordinated team of niors in Grand Rapids. She is a member
world there are many financial ers are in regular contact with their legal and financial professionals, of Elder Abuse Coalition, Caregiver
tools available to older adults, but clients, they can also coordinate Isabel and Martha successfully Resource Network, and Kent County
it has become increasingly difficult communication among team mem- navigated the money maze. Council on Aging, American Institute of
bers. CPAs and the American Association of
to keep track of them all. Most
Daily Money Managers.
financial tools are not inherently
So, what about Isabel and Martha?
good or bad, but need to be used
Isabel’s niece hired a daily money
appropriately. What works well for
manager who discovered thou-
Isabel may not be the right thing
sands of dollars in overdraft fees
for Martha.
from the bank. The daily money
So, what are some of these options? manager went to the bank with
Financial professionals tend to be Isabel to get the fees reduced, then
specialized by necessity and the regularly visited her at home to
best outcomes occur when they review the mail and make sure Isa-
work as a team to support the older bel’s accounts stayed in the black.
adult. They are able to recommend She also put Isabel in touch with
the appropriate tool for each cli- benefits and programs in her area
ent’s situation. Elder law attorneys that eased the financial strain. A
are the ones to see for Medicaid CPA educated Isabel and her niece
applications, wills, trusts, and on the pros and cons of a reverse
estate planning. Investment advisors mortgage so they could make an in-
make recommendations on how formed decision on long term care.
to invest savings and make it last.
Martha hired an elder law attorney
CPAs give objective advice on the
to review and amend her estate
use of reverse mortgages, annuities,
plan with input from Martha’s in-
long term care insurance, and other
vestment advisor. The attorney rec-
financial tools and can provide tax
ommended a CPA and daily money
preparation and planning. Daily
manager who filed claims for long
money managers assist seniors with
term care insurance and provided
keeping track of income and ex-
extra support with day-to-day
penses, organizing records, manag-
finances when Martha developed
ing cash flow as well as accessing
Answers - Boggle Game:
MAY JUNE JULY MARCH APRIL AUGUST JANUARY
ANSWERS
FOR
GAMES
ON
ANSWER - JUMBLE PUZZLE #1:
PAGES PAUSE SKUNK TATTOO WALLOP
They were able to get away from the porcupine
16 & 17 because the porcupine was a --- SLOWPOKE
ANSWER - JUMBLE PUZZLE #1:
ABOVE HEFTY ADRIFT WICKER
When asked if she wanted a ring made of gold
or silver, she said --- EITHER “ORE”
SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2021 23 SENIOR PERSPECTIVES - KENT COUNTYSENIOR PERSPECTIVES - KENT COUNTY 24 SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2021
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