“There are more than 117 million Americans age 50 and older – 35% of the total population. I wanted to do a special show to honor and represent that age group,” says Brian B., founder and MC of the SNF. “This is the second year of special performances to recognize specific groups.
(Courtesy, Brian B.)
“In February, we did our special Black History Month show. In March, it was our Women’s History Month and Gilda’s Club of Grand Rapids LaughFest performances. The SNF is a melting pot of comedians and audience members – different ages, nationalities, so why not honor all the groups that make up the show?”
The Older Americans Month lineup consists of seven different comedians at least 50 years of age. The show will feature former local radio personality Jojo Girard closing out the show. Also featured will be Detroit area comic Kathy Ryan, comedians from Ohio, and various local talent.
“The Sunday Night Funnies has got a big 2024 going on,” said Brian B.
In addition to the the Older Americans Month show, the following Sunday (May 12) will kick off SNF’s seventh annual Kingpin of Comedy competition.
15 years of SNF
The Sunday Night Funnies is the creation of Grand Rapids stand-up comedian Brian B. Now in its 15th year, the SNF is a weekly live stand-up comedy performance featuring over 1,200 performances from comics across Michigan and around the country.
The SNF is a free admission show on Sunday nights at 7:30 p.m. during the winter/spring, and at 8:30 p.m. during summer and early fall. All performances take place at Woody’s Pressbox inside The Spectrum Entertainment Complex in Wyoming.
Completing an advance directive outlining your end-of-life wishes can serve as a final gift of clarity for loved ones. (Photo Courtesy, Emmanuel Hospice)
OK, you’ve made the mid-April tax deadline. Congrats. Now what?
Here’s a thought: Get something arguably as important – or even more so – in order next.
We’re talking about critical health care decisions in the event you’re not able to communicate decisions yourself – decisions you can define in an “advance directive.”
That’s the aim of National Healthcare Decisions Day on April 16 every year, which is typically the day after taxes are due.
Unlike taxes, advance directives aren’t something you’re obligated to execute, but experts agree you’ll feel immense relief should you take on the task. You’ll then have legal documents in place to safeguard the ways in which you want important decisions made about your health care if you are unable to communicate them yourself due to an accident, illness or other factors.
“Having a conversation is a good place to start, after you’ve gone through the contemplative part of it,” says Sara Lowe, executive director of Emmanuel Hospice in Grand Rapids.
Lowe, and scores of her employees, have witnessed firsthand the friction that can ensue when advance directives aren’t in place, and loved ones start arguing about what dad or mom would want when they can no longer decide on their own.
“What we’ve seen is how there is so much more peace in the family when those documents are in place,” says Lowe, noting that setting up advance directives “can serve as a final gift of clarity for your loved ones.”
Conversations should eventually include the person or persons you’re confident about choosing to serve as your durable power of attorney for health care decisions revolving around the types of medical interventions you do and do not want dependent upon the situation.
“Those conversations help determine who the right person for that is,” says Lowe, emphasizing that you shouldn’t automatically choose your spouse or firstborn, but instead that person you can best trust to carry out your wishes.
Advance directives remain in effect until you change it, so it’s a good idea to review your advance directives on an annual basis, especially if your life has been affected by divorce, separation or other family crises that might affect your initial choice.
“You never know when something unforeseen is going to happen,” she says.
Lowe understands that some people find it a daunting task to discuss death and dying. Her suggestion?
“You don’t have to do it all at once. Take your time,” she says. “Think about it, then have those conversations. Break it up into smaller pieces, but then act.”
And she offers this to consider, “It’s always better to have advance directives in place and not need them, than it is to need them and not have them.”
A lawyer is not needed to fill out an advance directive, but witnesses are required for the document to become legally valid. For more information about advance directives, consider visiting websites like CaringInfo.org, where you can navigate to the state you live in for specific guidelines, and download forms. You can also learn more via the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization at nhpco.org.
Once your advance directive is complete, be sure your doctors have a copy, as well as everyone who might be involved with your health care decisions. Store the original document in a safe, but easy to find place. Avoid locking the document away, so it can still be accessed by loved ones if you’re unexpectedly hospitalized.
For more information about Emmanuel Hospice, call 616-719-0919 or visit EmmanuelHospice.org.
According to The New York Times, there are 110 million people in the U.S. over the age of 55. Many of those older adults are living in homes not designed for active aging.
Beacon Hill Living communities are designed to support lifelong learning, hybrid work, and engagement in wellness-related activities as aging individuals redefine their goals.
Beacon Hill Living conceptual drawing (Courtesy, Beacon Hill Living)
“We’re in the earliest stages of exploring what we think is a critical form of service that could address the needs of another segment of the senior living population,” said Jeff Huegli, Beacon Hill at Eastgate President and CEO.
“As our society ages, people are looking for opportunities to build community so they can live meaningful lives and stay engaged long after they leave the workforce.”
A shift in serving
Huegli went on to say that a certain dynamic has emerged as generations pass through the Eastgate community.
“There has been a shift in the types of residents we’re serving,” said Huegli. “Baby boomers especially are living life a little bit differently than the first generation who occupied our continuum of care.”
More active lifestyles are creating the need for change (Adobe Stock Photos)
With 450 residents at Eastgate and over 200 on the waiting list, Huegli began earnestly redeveloping Eastgate in 2010 to meet those changing needs.
“As our waiting list grew, and as we saw the needs and interests of this population change within the community, we addressed them with programming and other services,” said Huegli. “We were still extremely hospitality focused, but there were some external factors that would drive the question for our future residents about whether their interests could really be met in a place like this one.”
Eastgate’s campus meets a specific need and has a history of 64 years of excellent residential and clinical care services. However, Huegli has seen the changing needs of the people they serve.
“Leaning on Urbaneer’s ageless design and Seamless Ventures’ tech expertise, [Beacon Hill Living] homes not only fit today’s active lifestyle, they allow residents to age without necessarily having to downsize and move,” said Huegli.
Beacon Hill Living will provide unique opportunities for seniors to make that seamless transition into the next chapter of their lives, and to “age in place” by exploring new forms of services and residences.
Technology plays a huge role in that transition process.
An information-rich environment
Focused on ages 55 and up, BH Living communities will encompass 40-60 single-story homes under 1,200 square feet – and will incorporate smart technology designed to increase their owners’ “health span.”
Advances in technology can help people live a fuller and healthier life (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
“Technology exists that allows us to monitor our health and manage our homes,” said Ben Look, a partner with Seamless Ventures. “By marrying these two, we can create an even smarter home that helps homeowners better understand their current state of wellness and live even healthier.”
Huegli said technology will be used in non-invasive forms, and believes it will help with lifestyles while also gathering information about how people age over time.
“It just feels like the right way of integrating technology with person-centered living,” said Huegli. “It’s such a good way of measuring life. Then we can tackle interventions or even optimize living environment, air quality, lighting – all the stuff that can happen through intentional design.”
That information can then help inform significant decisions later on in life, such as when it is right to move into assisted living, and when an individual should consider entering into a continuum of care like Eastgate.
“Many of us are still working professionals,” said Huegli, citing his own life as an example. “I’m nearly that age, and I still see 20 years of work in my life. Where am I going to do that?
“I’m in my original home where I raised my kids. It’s a fantastic community. But technologically, I don’t know if I have the capacity, in my 60-something-year old house, to be able to keep up with what I think my work mode needs – and that will probably change over time. Additionally, the house itself isn’t designed to be able to age with me.”
Most people move into a senior living community because of an imminent need for themselves or their spouse.
Seniors at Beacon Hill Living will not need to worry about their future (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
“Seniors need to make these decisions more readily because forced change is such a radical experience,” said Huegli. “It really minimizes the opportunity for experiencing richness in the third chapter.
“Those are the aspects of Beacon Hill Living that I’m most excited about. The intentionality that informs each resident of the community, who can then see the future and not be worried about it so much.”
Intentional design
The Urbaneer-designed homes and communities will be curated by Beacon Hill at Eastgate senior living experts.
“What we’re looking for is a way to maintain our commitment to community, maintain healthiness, and then intentionally put in systems that aren’t invasive, but rather enable the graceful and intentional aging of our residents,” said Huegli.
Thirteen design principles have been devised after a year-long, human-centered research project. Those design principles focus mainly on assisted living, with some independent living applications.
“But they’re also universal,” said Huegli. “This has the ability to make a major impact regionally.
“If we can gain efficiency and the attractive form of living that we think we can, we could replicate this in a variety of ways…and make a difference in all the different communities that would welcome this.”
Proximity of transportation, health care, and community resources all play a factor in Beacon Hill Living locations (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
Finalizing locations
Beacon Hill Living is working to finalize the location for its first community, focusing on the Traverse City market.
“That market has such an interesting demographic to it,” said Huegli. “It’s well-established, it’s got the types of residents there who are committed to the community itself.”
Though several properties have been identified as potential prospects, none have been fully secured. Huegli’s objective is to find property located near naturally occurring resources such as restaurants, health care, and other typical urban offerings.
“Our focus would then be to integrate these communities into the natural world around them, while also enhancing the opportunities for people living in them to enjoy the richer lifestyle and promises of a great near future with intentional planning through community building,” Huegli said.
For Huegli, community is what living is all about.
A community-focused mission
People and connection create community and foster wellness (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
“We found that community establishment is not physical,” said Huegli. “It’s literally relational. That connection is what establishes community, and is what ultimately derives wellness.
“The healthiest of our communities are the ones which occur naturally. Where friendships are established through well-planned spaces and well-planned programs. But the people make it happen.”
Huegli says it has been heartening to see that energy happening at Eastgate, and sees the same translation occurring in the Beacon Hill Living communities.
“The mission of Beacon Hill Living is to fill – to the fullest – the bucket of opportunity for living for any individual resident,” said Huegli. “Where you can explore connecting with neighbors, live your life to your fullest, and have that environment move along with you.”
Vision and opportunity
Beacon Hill Living hopes to have land secured by the end of 2024, with the prospect of construction beginning in 2025.
When asked if there is a vision for a Beacon Hill Living community in West Michigan, Huegli said,“Definitely. As we’ve established this concept for Traverse City, I’m seeing lots of opportunities around this town.
“The horizon is endless. The resources are not limitless, but they are there, and we can bring them together and make something beautiful happen.”
Stay tuned: Click here for more information and updates on Beacon Hill Living.
When it comes to coping and caring for someone with Alzheimer’s disease, it’s important at times to consider what you don’t say and do.
“People with Alzheimer’s live in a different reality once it advances,” says Paula Lett, social services manager at Care Resources, a Grand Rapids-based program for older adults that promotes healthy, independent living and helps prevent nursing home placement.
“In the beginning, they can be redirected, but as things progress, they’re stuck in a reality they’ve lived previously.”
The result can lead to extreme “agitation,” which can manifest itself in “getting upset, worked up and angry,” notes Ryanne Mondry, social services supervisor at Care Resources.
“That leads to confusion, miscommunication and misunderstandings.”
Stress levels can accelerate for both patients and caregivers. With Alzheimer’s expected to afflict nearly 13 million Americans by 2050 – the number now stands at some 7 million – it’s more important than ever to lean on education and advocacy for a disease that, according to the Alzheimer’s Association, is the fifth-leading cause of death among Americans 65 and older.
There are numerous strategies recommended for caregivers, including what Mondry says are telling “therapeutic white lies” to reduce stress in patients. For example, if a widower asks about seeing his wife, he shouldn’t be told she’s been dead five years, but instead that “she’s going to try to visit tomorrow.”
If they ask about the automobile they haven’t driven in the last year, things are apt to go more smoothly if they’re told “it’s in the shop for some minor repairs.”
Telling harsh truths might seem like the moral thing to do, but doing so can challenge the reality the disease has caused, and lead to traumatic episodes.
“It is generally best to redirect them than trying to make them remember what’s really going on, as that can really escalate things,” Lett says.
Lett and Mondry offer these additional tips for coping:
Ask the patient if they’re hungry, thirsty or tired. They might be unable to recognize basic needs.
Be aware of their blood-sugar levels.
Pay attention to their hygiene needs. Some with Alzheimer’s resist showering. Encourage a calming bath instead.
Try a change of scenery. Bring them into a quiet space. Take them for a walk or a drive. Play some music.
Lett and Mondry agree that caregivers also must understand that patients aren’t intentionally trying to be difficult in moments of increased agitation.
“Their brains have actually changed, and they sometimes become different people,” Lett says.
Mondry adds, “They can become more impulsive, engage in colorful language, and say and do things that are totally out of character.”
Both professionals agree it’s critical for caregivers to take care of themselves, too. Mondry compares it to the instructions given on flights where if the masks drop from above, capable adults need to put theirs on before assisting others.
“It’s easy to become burned out, and that can lead to unintentional neglect toward the person you’re supposed to be caring for,” Lett says. “Go for a walk, get enough sleep or join a support group.”
Mondry and Lett also suggest visiting a place like Care Resources, where there are wraparound support services for adults 55 years and older to give caregivers respite. Several team members have gone through comprehensive dementia care training developed by renowned dementia educator Teepa Snow to achieve a range of Positive Approach to Care® dementia certifications. These certifications allow staff to provide quality direct dementia care to participants, as well as and conduct ongoing dementia care training for other team members.
The organization’s day center at 4150 Kalamazoo Ave. SE invites participants to visit, enjoy a meal and socialize. Individuals may also be eligible for medical care, prescription help, dietary advice, physical and occupational therapy, transportation and much more. For more information, call Care Resources at 616-913-2006 or visit CareResources.org
The City of Kentwood invites community members to connect with senior-focused resources at the 25th annual Spotlight on Seniors Expo on Tuesday, April 16.
The free indoor event will take place from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the Kentwood Activities Center, 355 48th St. SE. It will feature more than 50 vendors from a variety of community businesses, free health screenings, door prizes, free lunch and more.
“Kentwood is fortunate to be surrounded by community resources that promote wellness across all age groups,” said Kentwood Recreation Program Coordinator Ann Przybysz. “The Spotlight on Seniors Expo serves as a platform for older adults and community members to come together to celebrate the journey of aging and explore the diverse services available to them.”
Vendors represent a wide variety of industries, with professionals knowledgeable in everything from physical therapy and hearing services to recreational opportunities and retirement planning.
Photo from last year’s event. (Courtesy, City of Kentwood)
The gold sponsors of the 25th annual Spotlight on Seniors Expo are Consumers Energy, The Oaks at Byron Center, The Oaks at Jamestown and We Care 4 U, LLC. Silver sponsors include CapTel Outreach, Devoted 2U Home Care, HealthMarkets Insurance Agency, Miracle-Ear and The Brook Retirement Communities.
Care Resources provides a number of services, including registered dieticians and nutritionists, to help participants make healthy life choices. (Photo Courtesy Care Resources)
By Care Resources
As adults age into their 50s and beyond, their nutritional needs change, so it’s important for that population to be deliberate in what and how much they ingest for optimal health.
That’s the word from registered dietitians and nutritionists like Patti Rozycki of Care Resources in Grand Rapids, one of countless professionals working to create awareness of proper nutrition, especially during March, when she and her colleagues celebrate National Nutrition Month.
For more than 50 consecutive years, the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics has been annually celebrating wise choices around food each March and the need to develop sound eating and physical activity habits.
Being nutritionally aware is arguably most important for adults 50 and older, since their needs are adjusting with age – needs tied to slowed metabolism, weakened senses, slowed digestion and challenges with medications and illnesses.
One of the keys, says Rozycki, is to avoid choices offering “empty calories” – things like juice drinks, sugary cereals, doughnuts and potato chips. The same goes for fried foods, caffeine, alcohol and high-sodium foods, all of which can affect quality of life.
Instead, choose more “nutrient-dense” foods packed with vitamins and minerals – think eggs, dairy, whole grains, fruits and vegetables – and lay off foods with added sugar, salt (sodium) or that are high in fat.
“Your nutrition profile should have variety,” she notes, “but make sure you’re making healthy choices.”
Those measures and more are put into practice daily for the adults served by Care Resources, where Rozycki has been in place for more than four years, serving participants 55 years and older who qualify for a wide host of services, including dietary advice.
With headquarters at 4150 Kalamazoo Ave. SE, Care Resources reaches out to hundreds of people in Kent County and parts of surrounding counties with a community-based program that promotes healthy, independent living to prevent nursing home placement.
In addition to recommending what foods to eat, Rozycki has these tips for older adults interested in healthy nutrition choices:
Be purposeful in what you purchase to eat. Make a healthy list and stick to it, avoiding impulse buys.
When traveling, plan ahead of time what and where you’ll eat. If possible, pack healthy snacks as an alternative to stopping for fast food.
Don’t overlook your hydration. You typically need water before you become overly thirsty. Dehydration can have a debilitating effect on your health.
Avoid fad diets and lose-weight-quick schemes. And be wary of supplements and what they claim to do.
At Care Resources, nutrition is just part of a comprehensive plan created individually for its participants, Rozycki says. If, for example, the goal is to lose weight, many factors go into the establishment of a plan, including health history, medications, exercise options and support from friends and family.
With obesity rates for Americans 60 and over at nearly 42% and rising, Rozycki says it’s more important than ever to eat healthier.
“It’s all about making the right choices.”
Nutrition counseling through a program like Care Resources can help older adults create a health plan that is tailored to individual needs. For more information, call 616-913-2006 or visit CareResources.org.
Beacon Hill at Eastgate is more than a retirement community – it is a mission to deliver a new standard in senior living.
“We’ve made a great change here in the way that senior care is delivered in Grand Rapids,” said Jeff Huegli, President and CEO of Beacon Hill at Eastgate.
That standard has garnered notice by more than just Beacon Hill residents.
Recently recognized as one of America’s Best Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs) by Newsweek and Statista, Beacon Hill at Eastgate is ranked at #45 out 250 CCRCs in the United States, and #2 within the state of Michigan.
“It’s been a head-turning moment for the organization,” said Huegli.
A humble beginning
Located in the heart of the Eastgate neighborhood in Grand Rapids, Beacon Hill is a distinctive, not-for-profit retirement community dedicated to providing a vibrant life for Grand Rapids’ seniors.
The vision for Beacon Hill began in 1951 by five area Baptist churches. That vision came to fruition on a 10-acre site named Michigan Christian Home.
“It’s a historic building that initially served independent living residents, with some assisted living, and skilled nursing,” said Huegli.
Huegli came to Beacon Hill in 2003 to help expand the campus in a different part of the county.
Beacon Hill at Eastgate has expanded over time, but its values remain constant (Courtesy, Beacon Hill)
“After recognizing that our market and our call to service for the community is here on the southeast side, we reinvested and bought the hospital that was here, Metro Hospital, and gained the 12-acre site to begin constructing independent living – which is now known as Beacon Hill at Eastgate,” said Huegli.
Huegli and the Beacon Hill staff are dedicated to continuing the original vision and core values of the founders: Christ-inspired compassion, service, collaboration, generosity and integrity.
“Even though we’re now known for hospitality, wonderful lifestyle, community connection, all of our heart and service model is rooted in the original values that were established by that board,” said Huegli.
Skilled nursing is the core of that original service model.
“We have done a tremendous job in building out our healthcare system,” said Huegli. “We’ve attracted great service partners. Trinity Health comes out of that organization, and they have really committed to forming a high-quality health system.”
A thriving community
The heart of Beacon Hill’s mission is community.
“We are a faith-based community,” said Huegli. “We hold onto what Jesus Christ taught us for hospitality and personal care in the gospel, transferring that into a modern healthcare system.
“Attending to all people, irrespective of where they come from. That has given us a really rich tapestry of a wonderful, thriving community.”
Beacon Hill provides a thriving community for seniors and their families (Courtesy, Beacon Hill)
Beacon Hill works to provide a warm, high-quality environment for its residents and the community. Part of that environment includes walking paths and a community garden.
“What’s different about Beacon Hill from other communities is that we’re located in the [Eastgate] neighborhood. We love that it’s urban, and we intentionally invest in connecting to the people, and to the geography, of this area.”
Beacon Hill’s commitment to each individual and where they are in their life journey is shown in the care of every resident, family member and guest.
“Each person is known,” said Huegli.
Experiencing life…again!
Beacon Hill serves over 400 residents, many who are learning to experience life for a second time.
“My favorite people [are] the residents who reluctantly come here,” admitted Huegli. “These are folks who have had a highly independent professional career where they have made their own decisions, they have had great influence over process or an organization, and are fiercely independent.”
However, Beacon Hill becomes their home, Huegli continued. “This place just seeps in over time, and we see engagement over and over again.”
Beacon Hill residents at a summer celebration (Courtesy, Beacon Hill)
The Beacon Hill community provides residents with opportunities for activity, exercise and optimism.
“And optimism,” Hugeli said, “is a significant portion of physical health. That’s what Beacon Hill can do for people.”
The highest standard of care
Huegli said satisfaction rates with Beacon Hills’ extended care services of rehab memory care, assisted living and other personal services, are high.
“We work minute-by-minute to ensure that we’re meeting the standards, and that we’re exceeding expectations in every form,” said Huegli. “We know the effort our 250 employees give will be reflected immediately on quality of life for each resident and their family member.”
Continuous investment is also a Beacon Hill priority.
“We put over $150 million of capital into this campus over the years that I’ve been here, and what has resulted is something that’s way deeper than a dollar bill,” said Huegli. “It’s connection.
“City connection, connection to our immediate neighbors, and bonds between residents and the staff who work here every day.”
Beacon Hill is committed to continual improvement and care (Courtesy photo)
The recent national recognition of Beacon Hill’s efforts is meaningful because they did not seek it out.
“I don’t even remember hearing about this before it was announced,” Huegli said. “So the fact that it’s an independent study is all the more meaningful.”
Intentional care creates increasing demand
The demand for Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs) is steadily increasing, a fact that is not surprising to Huegli.
“Communities like us, we are intentional in creating a friendly, warm and optimistic place that’s just packed full of resources,” said Huegli. “The value that we can add as a provider for any resident here – independently or otherwise – is astounding.”
Out of the 2000+ CCRCs throughout the United States, Huegli said: “Beacon Hill is a gold standard, and it’s been my career’s work to see it through.”
Generations of service
To Huegli, serving the senior community is not just a job – it is his passion.
“I’ve got a long history in my family, generations of people who have dedicated their lives to community service, community development, social change,” said Huegli. “That inspired me to find a career path that would make a difference but also make use of my interests.”
Huegli has dedicated his career to serving others (Courtesy, pxhere.com)
Those interests include planning, finance, design and marketing. But Huegli finds his purpose in caring for others.
“Taking care of seniors has been an amazing find for me personally,” said Huegli. “Impacting individual seniors as their needs have changed and interacting with a care team who is equally committed – I can’t think of anything more noble.
“Touching these lives in a positive way…there’s nothing better.”
What’s next?
Committed to being state-of-the-art and progressive in their programs and designs, Beacon Hill is poised for even more growth.
“Our next work will be to construct the finest assisted living and memory care program around, just as we have with other components of our service model,” said Huegli. “You’ll be seeing more from us very soon.”
To learn more about the Beacon Hill at Eastgate services and community, click here.
Care Resources Chief Operating Officer Tom Muszynski stands by a PACE 101 banner. Comprehensive clinical care is one of many services offered through the Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly. (Courtesy, Care Resources)
By Care Resources
Sometimes, it’s just a simple note.
But in it, Tom Muszynski finds inspiration that reassures him Care Resources, the community-based program where he serves as chief operating officer, is on the right track.
“I received a card recently from a family who said that without our program, their mother never would have been able to remain in her home during the last year,” he says.
A main reason? The fact that Care Resources and its caregivers adhere to something called the 11 disciplines, administered by professionals in 11 health-related fields who work together to treat not just a symptom, but the entire person.
With a day center located in Grand Rapids at 4150 Kalamazoo Ave. SE, Care Resources is part of a larger national entity called PACE, short for Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly. PACE is committed to keeping adults 55 years and older with challenging health care conditions in their home by caring for their medical, physical and social needs.
The 11 disciplines of PACE focus on providing a day care center; and delivering primary care, nursing, physical therapy, occupational therapy, recreational therapy, social work, dietary services, transportation, personal care services and home care services to promote healthy and independent living and help prevent nursing home placement.
As COO the better part of two decades – and a health care provider nearly 35 years in all – Muszynski is well-versed in PACE and extolls its virtues to every employee.
“Really getting to know one another and our participants is tied to those disciplines,” he says. “Our holistic approach to care means everybody is collaborating on participant needs and going beyond the call of duty to support others.”
Each of the disciplines addresses a specific aspect of health and wellness, but the teams delivering those services are interconnected. This interdisciplinary group meets daily to plan tomorrow’s needs, based on what that day or previous days rendered. They assess risks, provide and oversee medications, encourage activity, provide transportation, guide dietary needs, address hygiene, provide post-surgical care and so much more.
With such a wide range of health care services, Care Resources is able to ensure participants get high-quality care in a timely manner.
A participant gets a vaccination. Comprehensive clinical care is one of many services offered through the Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly. (Courtesy, Care Resources)
“For example, if we have a person with a hurting shoulder, they don’t wait two months to see someone,” Muszynski says. “It happens within a day or two because of the diverse specialists and resources we have available.”
At Care Resources, it’s also important to bring family members in as part of the equation.
“We want to be aware of everything and everyone affecting a person’s health in order to develop a comprehensive care plan unique to the physical, mental, emotional and social needs of each participant,” he says. “We also want to ensure family caregivers have the support they need as their loved ones continue to age.”
Although not a discipline, Care Resources also is purposeful in bringing whimsy to the party to promote socialization and build community among participants.
“Our employees will dress up for holidays, put on barbecues and even stage a prom dance to create a fun and engaging experience for participants,” he explains. “And we’re always open to other ideas. It’s why we have a participant advisory committee to help us consider new and better ways to serve.
“We’re dedicated to positively impacting lives. That’s what we do.”
For more information about Care Resources and the PACE model of care, call 616-913-2006 or visit CareResources.org.
Emmanuel Hospice Music Therapist Miranda Eden uses a specialized stethoscope to record Lloyd “Bud” Afton’s heartbeat to create a heartbeat recording set to his favorite song. (Courtesy, Emmanuel Hospice)
By Emmanuel Hospice
Two sobering facts to consider: One, that heart-related disease is the leading cause of death among U.S. adults. And two, that hospice care is vastly underutilized by that very population.
“There’s a big gap,” says Melissa Page, director of clinical services at Emmanuel Hospice. That’s why she and her colleagues have been aggressively advocating for more education and awareness revolving around Emmanuel’s Heart & Soul Advanced Cardiac Program.
It’s a toolkit of sorts, linked in with a program developed by the National Partnership for Healthcare and Hospice Innovation in collaboration with the American Heart Association. The goal is to ensure patients with heart disease and their loved ones are well informed so symptoms can be managed safely at home, reducing trips to the ER or hospital.
A mainstay of the collaboration is a 32-page Advanced Cardiac Care Guide, which includes valuable information on everything from recognizing symptoms to dietary recommendations. Many patients living with end-stage heart disease are burdened by visits to the doctor’s office, emergency room and hospital due to breathing difficulties, edema, fatigue and other worsening symptoms.
Such exacerbations can often be prevented or managed by hospice and palliative care, says Julie Chambers, a nurse case manager for Emmanuel.
“With hospice care, it’s more about providing comfort,” Chambers says. “And that can mean fewer visits to offices and more time with family enjoying a higher quality of life while still collaborating with a cardiac team to treat anything from breathing issues to swollen limbs to fluctuations in weight and appetite.”
“We’re seeking ways to include people already involved with the patient’s care, while also folding in all the services our organization provides,” Page adds.
To that end, Chambers and Page and other team members at Emmanuel Hospice are constantly looking for ways to help make cardiologists and other professionals aware of the benefits hospice can provide.
“When hospice care is part of the formula, we see lower anxiety levels, less fear of the unknown and fewer feelings of helplessness,” Chambers says. “It’s all part of putting the patient at ease, a different culture of care.”
Support might include regular visits from Emmanuel Hospice experts, and can extend beyond traditional care to complementary therapies and services involving everything from massage to music to essential oils.
Chambers and Page emphasize that people affected by cardiac disease either personally or through a loved one can reach out with questions at any time, even if they’re not experiencing end-stage symptoms.
“Death doesn’t need to be imminent,” Page says. “It’s OK to simply call and say, ‘I’d like to know more about this.’”
“It’s also important for people to know that they’re not ‘giving up’ when they reach out to us,” adds Chambers. “We’re fighting against that stigma, that ‘If I’m going on hospice, I’m giving up.’ No. You’re choosing what you want, and we’re here to honor that choice.”
Care Resources participant Pat is working on a puzzle, one of many simple ways older adults can promote their well-being despite Michigan’s challenging winter months. (Courtesy, Care Resources)
By Care Resources
Mentally making the choice is the easy part.
It’s getting out of the recliner and onto your feet and into action that will test your resolve.
But when you consider that it’s your very health and welfare at risk, the team at Care Resources is in your corner and ready to encourage you in ways that keep you active during Michigan’s ch-ch-chilly and challenging winter months.
“With anything, it’s the first step out the door that’s the hardest,” says Garth Falkins, recreational therapy manager for Care Resources, a community-based program for people 55 and older seeking to remain in their homes.
“The key is to motivate yourself and remind yourself that you don’t want to just sit around and watch TV all day,” Falkins says. “We have programs in place at our day center, and also strategies to help people at home who want to promote their well-being.
“It helps to actually make a plan of what you might like to do, and that can grow into a long list, anything from jogging in place to doing some simple exercises to taking a walk – even if it’s just around the home or up and down a hallway or out to the mailbox and back.”
Even playing a board game, reading a book, going through your coin collection, scrapbooking or sorting photos will enhance your day more so than staring at the tube or taking another nap.
Falkins emphasizes how gathering with others for social interaction can help repel the seasonal doldrums and positively affect your mental and emotional health.
“COVID really demonstrated to us all how important it is to stay connected with others,” Falkins says. “Our programs provide the incentive to do that.”
For those who qualify, the day center at 4150 Kalamazoo Ave. SE in Grand Rapids lures with an array of activities that include bingo games, exercise options, crafts, music and much more. Transportation is available to and from clients’ homes. The center draws participants from Kent and parts of surrounding counties – 872 square miles in all.
Technology also can be your ally. Consider FaceTiming or Zooming a friend or relative. Or check out care.coach, a platform allowing you to talk to a friendly avatar to provide compassionate 24-7 psychosocial support.
Falkins says it’s important you try to stick with plans to stay active, and engage others in your quest to be healthy. Reach out to community centers, churches, schools, health clubs – anywhere people gather.
Falkins emphasizes that “getting older doesn’t mean you pull away.” On the contrary, he says, “people 55 and older are a lot wiser and have a lot more to give and to get from pursuing healthy options.”
In any case, “try to make the effort,” Falkins says. “Begin with baby steps, and build from there. In the long run, you’ll thank yourself for it.”
Learn more about Care Resources by visiting CareResources.org or calling 616-913-2006.
In hospice care, essential oils can be used to minimize adverse reactions and maximize therapeutic benefits to support mind, body and spirit. (Courtesy, Emmanuel Hospice)
By Emmanuel Hospice
How to help combat tension? Maybe lavender.
Wish you could feel a bit more energized? Try lemon.
As for improving congestion and mental focus? Peppermint, perhaps.
In hospice care, these and other essential oils are finding their way into the mainstream as ways to minimize adverse reactions and maximize therapeutic benefits, often in conjunction with other methods of treatment.
At Emmanuel Hospice, essential oils have been part of the care team’s toolkit for upwards of five years now, relying on 100% natural extracts from plants which support the holistic wellbeing of mind, body and spirit.
Lavender
“We currently utilize four essential oils,” explains Jenny Kellogg, Emmanuel’s support programs manager. “There’s lavender, a light and floral scent, which can ease feelings of tension, and sometimes reduce a person’s anxiety and even help calm them and promote restful sleep.
Lemon
“Then there’s lemon, a bright and citrusy scent, which can be used for odor control and for uplifting moods, sort of like the opposite of lavender.
Frankincense
“The third is frankincense, an earthy scent with a Biblical tie-in, which can help with emotional balance and spiritual awareness. A patient might be struggling with their diagnosis, and frankincense can offer some respite from those feelings.
Peppermint
“The fourth is peppermint, a cool and refreshing scent, which can help with multiple things. It can clear congestion, improve mental focus and help with nausea and headaches.”
Kellogg stresses that Emmanuel only uses essential oils procured from a reputable supplier, rather than diluted oils you might purchase in some retail stores. In any case, Emmanuel limits their use to only a few drops at a time that are diffused into the air, sprayed onto linens or applied sparingly to a piece of felt that can be pinned to clothing.
The reaction patients have to the oils can vary.
“Like with most things, reactions are different,” Kellogg says. “All oils are unique in their scent and utilization. It offers a person-centered approach to symptom management based on each patient’s preferences and needs.
“A lot of times, people will gravitate toward lavender oil because it helps them sleep, or puts them at ease. And others like lemon oil because it can improve energy and promote an invigorating environment.”
Since essential oils are so potent, they’re used with extreme care. Emmanuel uses protocols about how much to use in a diffuser or the correct amount to spray into the air or introduce to clothing or bedding. It takes 60 pounds of lavender to produce just one ounce of its essential oil. For the same amount of essential lemon oil, 90 lemons are required.
Though there are studies demonstrating health benefits from essential oils, Kellogg says “some patients connect with and believe in oils more than others.”
“This is just another way we offer patient’s choice in their plan of care and ways to improve their quality of life,” she adds.
Overall, they serve as a valid alternative to some medications, and represent “an important tool for us, especially for patients who hesitate to add more medications to their list.”
Essential oils are one of many complementary therapies and services Emmanuel Hospice offers that can be used alongside pharmaceutical approaches or as an alternative to enhance each patient’s life. Others include massage therapy, music therapy, pet visitors and virtual reality, to name a few.
“It’s all about how best to treat the patient and the patient’s family,” Kellogg says. “If essential oils can help, we’ll make them part of the journey.”
For more information about holistic end-of-life care, visit EmmanuelHospice.org or call 616-719-0919.
Recognizing when older adults in your life need help is the first step in getting them support that promotes healthy, independent living. (Courtesy, Adobe Stock)
By Care Resources
At some point, the one you love is likely going to need extra help with anything from doing the dishes to navigating stairways.
The question is, how and when do you know?
At Care Resources, there are people and programs in place to help you recognize the signs that changes are occurring, and how to help get the support they need.
“Everyone has their normal baseline, so what you’re looking for are changes to that,” says Amanda Oswald, an intake social worker with Care Resources, a community-based program for people 55 and older seeking to remain in their homes. “You have to look for clues.
“When someone is having trouble with what used to be a routine task, that’s when you might want to have a conversation. It can be about any number of activities.”
In the kitchen alone, says Oswald, there might be signs – scorched pans that signal a burner was left on too long, spoiled food in the refrigerator, a lack of food or stacks of unwashed dishes.
What you’re looking for, she says, is “anything out of the ordinary.”
Oswald suggests keeping an eye out for unpaid bills and bounced checks, sudden difficulty following a recipe, dirty laundry piling up as well as dents and scratches showing up on a motor vehicle.
Sometimes, the changes are a red flag signaling the onset of dementia or other physical or mental maladies.
“Maybe they’re out driving and can’t remember how to get somewhere,” Oswald says. “Or they’re having difficulty managing their medications, which we see a lot of – people who are running out of something too soon, or not getting refills.”
Oswald emphasizes that Care Resources – with a mission to promote healthy and independent living while working to prevent nursing home placement – is well-equipped to assist people whose challenges are increasing.
It provides an array of services at its day center at 4150 Kalamazoo Ave. SE, and makes home visits to dozens of older adults every day of the week.
Oswald notes that some changes people go through are more obvious.
They may have trouble getting out of a chair or off the toilet or out of bed. They may be undergoing unintentional weight loss, or showing marks or bruises indicating they’re experiencing falls. Their personal hygiene may be declining. They might be avoiding contact with others.
A next step once you zero in on such changes? Have a conversation. Oswald recognizes that can be intimidating, but it doesn’t have to be as long as you avoid jumping to conclusions.
“Be respectful when approaching someone,” Oswald counsels. “Don’t let it be demeaning. Some of these changes signal the eventual loss of independence, and that can be life changing.”
Partnering with an organization like Care Resources – which provides services to those in Kent and parts of four surrounding counties – can provide interventions that help keep people in their homes.
The important thing, says Oswald, is to intervene “sooner than later,” and emphasize that your primary interest is that they’re safe and have the support they need.
Emmanuel Hospice volunteer Jim Parent talking with a patient. (Courtesy, Emmanuel Hospice)
By Emmanuel Hospice
At Emmanuel Hospice, you might say Veterans Day is every day when it comes to providing patient care to those who have served in our country’s military.
Just ask Jim Parent, a mostly retired machine repairman, who never thought that his own service in the U.S. Marines more than a half century ago would set the stage for how he gives back to fellow veterans receiving end-of-life care.
“It was a couple of years ago when I turned to my wife, Mary, and said, ‘You know, I’m thinking of retiring, and she said, ‘Well, you might want to look into volunteering,’” Parent said.
So, he did. In exploring his options, Parent learned of something sponsored by Emmanuel Hospice dubbed its “veteran-to-veteran” program. Open to veterans and active-duty service members in West Michigan, the volunteer program offers an opportunity to provide companionship and support to veterans facing a life-limiting illness.
The first patient he saw was so disconnected from friends, family and community that, had it not been for Parent’s efforts, his funeral would have been attended by no one.
“He was in his late 50s, and even though we were fellow Marines, he didn’t want to talk about much at first,” Parent recalled. “He had children earlier in life, but I never saw any family or friends with him during my visits to his facility.”
Parent, whose own service was in Vietnam in 1969, was able to gain the vet’s trust in part by showing him magic tricks he learned via YouTube. Along the way, Parent had assured the veteran that when he passed, he would not be alone.
When he died on a cool day the next spring, Parent and four team members from Emmanuel attended his funeral at Fort Custer in Battle Creek.
“We were able to keep that promise, providing him a military funeral with a 21-gun salute,” he said. “I guess you could say Emmanuel was his family.”
Parent has since spent time with a half-dozen other veterans, whose stories are the stuff of legends, including one World War II vet who turns 102 soon and, at 100, was still piloting around his 400-plus horsepower Chevrolet Camaro.
Another WWII vet – also still living, at age 97 – grew up dirt-poor in a West Virginia coal-mining town and quit school at 14 because he was tired of being teased about his shoes, which were fashioned from cardboard and tape. He worked the mines until he was 17, then joined the U.S. Navy.
Parent says he receives more out of his volunteering than he gives.
“I get so much from their stories, and it makes me a better person, more aware of the different paths they walk, that we all walk,” he said. “I guess I’m cultivating a little empathy, too. And it’s a great learning experience.”
For his service, Emmanuel Hospice awarded him the Sister Gabriela Caring Spirit Award to honor him as the 2022 volunteer of the year.
Parent was humbled to receive the honor. The award recognizes a volunteer who carries with them the mission and vision of Emmanuel Hospice and who goes above and beyond with their compassion for patients and their families. It is named after Sister M. Gabriela Hilke, the founding visionary behind the creation of Emmanuel Hospice and the award’s first recipient.
“Jim embodies what we look for in all our team members and volunteers – the ability and willingness to go that extra mile for all the people we serve,” said Sara Lowe, Emmanuel Hospice executive director. “He’s an excellent example of all that we try to be, and to bring to our people.”
Emmanuel Hospice is seeking more volunteers for its veteran-to-veteran volunteer program, which is offered year-round for patients. Those who are interested may visit EmmanuelHospice.org/volunteer to learn more and register.
Honoring its veterans is just one way that Care Resources – a community-based program for people 55 and over who wish to remain in their homes – utilizes its Grand Rapids site, which features a day center, clinic and pharmacy.
At Care Resources, veterans and other participants have access to a wide range of services, from physical, occupational and speech therapy, to daily meals and activities in the day center, to rehab and durable medical equipment, such as walkers, wheelchairs, oxygen and diabetic testing supplies.
Care Resources also makes daily home visits to nearly 60 men and women – veterans included – who are seeking ways to prevent being placed into nursing homes. Promoting healthy and independent living while working to prevent nursing home placement is the mission of the organization.
Care Resources values all the veterans they care for throughout the year. But on Veterans Day in particular, the organization takes the time to publicly salute the men and women who brought honor and dignity to the uniform they wore and to the flag they served.
For the last several years, Care Resources has hosted a ceremony during which the veterans in their care are showcased for the sacrifices they’ve made. A married pair of active-duty officers from the Michigan National Guard are only too happy to emcee the special event held every November at the organization’s day center at 4150 Kalamazoo Avenue SE.
This year’s program was held Friday, Nov. 10, and featured the National Anthem, the Pledge of Allegiance, remarks from Sgt. Maj. John Gebhard and the presentation of a pin and a commemorative coin to every veteran in attendance.
(Courtesy, Care Resources)
“We’re so thankful for them and it truly is an honor to let them know it, to show our appreciation,” says Sgt. Maj. John Gebhard.
His wife, Chief Warrant Officer 2 Krista Gebhard, adds: “We get to hear their stories, and make such important connections. It’s a great opportunity for us all.”
To learn more about Care Resources, visit CareResources.org or call 616-913-2006.
“This was prompted by the recognition that our senior community in Wyoming is one that deserves to have attention provided to it, and services delivered right to their doorstep,” said Fitzgerald. “We really looked at what this community needs, and it is more direct services from the state. This is an opportunity for us to begin a tradition of providing these resources directly to the community.”
The Resource Fair included several community organizations that provided information, resources, goodies, and even lunch for attendees. The goal was to not only reach members of the Wyoming Senior Center where the event was held, but also the general community with resources specific to older adults in Wyoming.
“It’s very easy for older adults to slip through the cracks,” said Chad Boprie, WSC Director. “As people hit retirement age, they start to have these needs and they don’t know where to find help. By doing an event like this, [seniors] can get a lot of the resources in one place and be able to tap into those,” said Boprie.
A need for resources and compassion
The Senior Resource Fair is expected to become an annual fall event (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Resident Janet Thompson attended the Resource Fair for that exact reason.
Housing, transportation, and service providers such as plumbers and electricians were among Thompson’s top priorities.
“We want to stay in our homes as long as we can,” said Thompson. “We figured we would hire what we need done, but we don’t know where to go to hire it done.”
Where to get help – and help from providers experienced with the senior community – is not always clear, Thompson continued.
“I thought maybe the [vendors] who come here are used to dealing with seniors…and might be more patient and have more knowledge,” said Thompson.
Providing knowledge and expertise
Senior Real Estate Specialist Patti Grover Gabrielse (left) works to provide seniors with customized and fair expertise (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Senior Real Estate Specialist, Patti Grover Gabrielse, participated as a vendor at the Resource Fair to help provide that experience and knowledge.
“What we do is we focus on the senior adult community,” said Gabrielse. “Of course we want to stay in our homes as long as we can, but when the time comes that we have to sell, I make sure to protect that asset and get the most amount of money for them.”
Gabrielse went on to say that there are real estate agents out there who take advantage of people who don’t know the market.
“It’s a real area of elder abuse,” Gabrielse said. “That money, whether [seniors] are going to go to assisted living or if they are going to go to family and live, every dime matters to them.”
Health and wellness education
Tina Ezell (left) of Urban League of West Michigan chats with a senior resident (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Tia Ezell with Urban League of West Michigan participated in the Resource Fair to provide information on COVID-19 and tobacco reform.
“Today we are here with information about COVID-19,” said Ezell. “We have some resources, masks, sanitizer, and literature on the vaccine and that explains things you can do to help prevent the spread of COVID.”
The Grand Rapids Urban League is also looking to end the sale of all flavored tobacco in the state of Michigan, including menthol flavored tobacco.
“[We are] doing our best to engage and educate the community that we serve about the harms of tobacco smoke, and why there is a need for tobacco reform in the state of Michigan,” Ezell said.
Grand Rapids Urban League also provides resources in regard to health and wellness education, housing resources, employment opportunities, and the Cure Violence program.
“The communities we serve are under-resourced, marginalized, and we are aware that we need to do what we can to inform them and provide whatever resources are available,” said Ezell.
A community that cares
The Wyoming Senior Center offers resources for both physical and mental health (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
The Senior Center works to provide the senior community with care and resources for more than just physical recreation.
“We want to be a hub for recreational services,” said Boprie. “Within that recreation there are so many goals related to not only physical fitness and physical health, but also mental health.”
Boprie went on to say that the WSC staff often sees loneliness and depression in older adults and believes that being active and involved in social programs helps reduce that issue.
“We also offer Meals on Wheels here two days a week, so there is also the nutritional component that we can provide for people as well,” Boprie said.
“We are very fortunate to have a senior center like this in Wyoming,” said Fitzgerald, “where we can have a gathering place to have all these wonderful organizations and people who serve our senior community get right to the source, to the people who need their services most.”
Dedicated to a life of service
A member of Rep. Fitzgerald’s staff sets out complimentary lunches, provided by Meals on Wheels, for attendees (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Serving his first term representing the 83rd House District, Fitzgerald is dedicated to building policy that will solve everyday, real issues that impact West Michigan residents. His commitment to community service stems from his mother and grandmothers who devoted their lives to giving beyond themselves.
“My personal connection with the senior community began when I was a child,” said Fitzgerald. “Starting at the age of three, I delivered Meals on Wheels with my mom. I would go in there and begin to chat with those who we were delivering meals to, and hear how their day was going.
“In my teenage years, I played cards with a number of my church members who were older,” Fitzgerald continued. “Even today, I look to support our senior community in a number of non-profit ways as well.”
Maria Goosen, CTRS leads seniors in a Tai Chi class at Care Resources (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
By Deborah Reed
deborah@wktv.org
Care Resources in Grand Rapids recently offered a tai chi class to Day Center visitors ages 55 and older as a way to promote healthy living.
“Tai chi is a form of exercise that originated in China and has become extremely popular throughout the world,” said Maria Goosen, a certified therapeutic recreational specialist (CTRS) who led the tai chi class. “It incorporates slow, simple, repetitive and low-impact movements that can be easily modified so that anyone can participate.”
A tranquil environment
Maria Goosen, CTRS, leads a Tai Chi class (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
The small exercise class took place in a room that featured a screen portraying peaceful nature scenes, low lighting, and soft music.
“Tai chi is often referred to as ‘meditation in motion’ because it focuses on your breath as well which helps to clear your mind,” said Goosen. “This allows for a multitude of emotional benefits such as decreased stress, anxiety and depression and enhanced well-being.”
Slow stretches gradually progressed into a sequence of tai chi movements that participants were able to complete sitting or standing, whichever was most comfortable to them.
Goosen says the benefits of tai chi are lengthy: improved balance, improved strength, improved hand-eye coordination, improved sleep quality, increased blood circulation and decreased risk of high blood pressure.
“It is a research-based intervention that has the capability to improve health in older adults,” said Goosen.
That is critically important to Care Resources, a Program of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly, or PACE®, which is funded by Medicare and Medicaid. The innovative community-based program for people 55 years and older promotes healthy and independent living while working to prevent nursing home placement.
The tai chi class is one of dozens of programs offered each month to participants.
Seniors warm up their muscles before a Tai Chi class at Care Resources (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
Goosen helped physically guide participants’ movements if asked, but urged them not to do any tai chi moves that would cause pain. “Listen to what your body is telling you,” said Goosen.
The tranquil atmosphere of the class was sporadically broken by soft laughter over participants’ self-proclaimed “creaking bones” and lack of coordination.
“Your bodies appreciate when you move them,” Goosen told the participants. “Be thankful and grateful for all that your body does.”
Bingo…and good friends
Pamela Miller, a tai chi class participant, has been coming to Care Resources five days a week for the past four years.
“I’ve got a lot of pluses about this place,” said Miller with a firm nod when asked if she enjoyed coming to the Day Center.
Playing Bingo, singing with “Diane the Shower Lady,” shopping in the Bingo Room, spending time with friends, and singing karaoke are only a few things Miller enjoys while at the Day Center.
Pamela Miller, a regular at the Care Resources day center, has made close friends during her visits (Courtesy, Deborah Reed WKTV)
And Miller’s definition of enjoyment is simple: “All I want is a good card to play Bingo.”
Miller has also forged lasting relationships and good friends at the Day Center, one being a gentleman who recently passed away.
Miller and her friend sat beside each other for years, looked out for each other, and went to events together before he died. Miller was thankful that her friend’s wife contacted Miller so she could go to his room and say goodbye before he passed.
“I know I’m not the only one who misses him,” said Miller.
Another good friend loves to paint, and Miller enjoys watching her create works of art.
Comfort and encouragement
Also very important to Miller is talking to the military veterans who come to the Day Center and offering comfort when she can.
“I’m there for them,” said Miller. “I see how they suffer. And they have suffered a lot.”
When asked what Miller’s favorite thing to do is at the Day Center, she answered without hesitation: “Encourage other people.”
Care Resources offers a day center, clinic and pharmacy in its 36,000-square-foot building at 4150 Kalamazoo Ave SE that provide a wide range of health care services as well as opportunities that promote socialization, build community and offer respite to caregivers.
The dining room at Holiday Aurora Pond senior living community received extensive renovations (Courtesy, Holiday by Atria)
By WKTV Staff
deborah@wktv.org
Upgrades in design and amenities help residents enjoy a vibrant lifestyle (Courtesy, Holiday by Atria)
Aurora Pond, a Holiday by Atria independent living community, has completed their $1.5 million renovation project for capital upgrades in design and amenities.
The public was invited to come see the enhancements during a grand opening celebration on Thursday, Aug. 17. A ribbon-cutting ceremony took place at 3 p.m. with refreshments, live entertainment and community tours following.
Helping residents thrive
A main focus of the renovation was to create an expanded fitness room to meet the needs of seniors working to maintain a more active lifestyle as they age. The game lounge, living room with library, atrium, and dining room also received extensive renovations.
Other improvements included added A/V capabilities in all common areas, exterior enhancements, and energy-efficient lighting.
Updated and energy-efficient lighting create a cozy atmosphere at Aurora Pond (Courtesy, Holiday by Atria)
“We are always delighted to welcome guests to Holiday Aurora Pond, but we [were] especially excited to show our surrounding community these recent improvements to our communal spaces,” said Matt Kruchowski, General Manager.
“Improving our dining room, fitness room, and multi-purpose rooms helps our residents thrive and continue to enjoy a vibrant lifestyle,” Kruchowski continued. “Social engagement – whether that’s sharing a meal with friends, group fitness classes, or movie nights – is a critical component to our residents’ physical, cognitive, and emotional wellbeing.”
For more information or to schedule a community tour, call 616-530-2511 or visit www.HolidayAuroraPond.com.
About Holiday by Atria
Holiday by Atria operates senior living communities with friendly neighbors and services designed to simplify life for older adults. Holiday by Atria is one of six distinct brands operated by Atria Senior Living.
An expanded fitness room will help seniors maintain an active lifestyle (Courtesy, Holiday by Atria)
Atria Senior Living, a leading operator of independent living, assisted living, supportive living and memory care communities, is the residence of choice for more than 38,000 older adults and the workplace of choice for more than 13,000 employees.
Atria creates vibrant communities where older adults can thrive and participate, know that their contributions are valued, and enjoy access to opportunities and support that help them keep making a positive difference in our world.
For more information about Holiday by Atria, visit HolidaySeniorLiving.com or follow them on Facebook or LinkedIn. For career opportunities, visit AtriaCareers.com.
Beacon Hill Residents at Summer Celebration (Courtesy, Beacon Hill)
By WKTV Staff
deborah@wktv.org
Beacon Hill at Eastgate is inviting members of the community to enjoy live music and curated food during its Summer Celebration, an annual culinary showcase and appreciation event featuring hand-held bites prepared by the retirement community’s award-winning chefs.
The annual event, which has been a tradition for more than 50 years, will take place 5:30 p.m. – 8 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 24 on the front lawn at Beacon Hill at Eastgate, 1919 Boston St. SE. Booths will line the parking lot, inviting foodies to enjoy cuisine from the retirement community’s kitchens and gardens that includes everything from global fusion and plant-based delights to bold flavors and gourmet comfort food.
The Moonrays, a Grand Rapids-based band that has opened for B.B. King and other prominent artists, will play a blend of instrumental surf, rock and blues with incredible vintage tone.
Beacon Hill’s food truck, The Traveling Plate, will also be on-site serving dishes from its rotating menu as a part of several dining stations. The Traveling Plate is serving up a culinary adventure this summer 4:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. each Wednesday outside Beacon Hill.
“The Summer Celebration is one of our favorite ways of thanking our residents, their loved ones and the surrounding community for their support,” Beacon Hill at Eastgate Marketing Director Ashley Edwards said. “Our culinary team has prepared an incredible selection of dishes for this year’s event – and what better way to come together with our neighbors than through carefully curated dishes made using ingredients grown in our own backyard.”
Beacon Hill Summer Celebration (Courtesy, Beacon Hill)
Last year’s event welcomed over 800 attendees. The event is open to the community, and food and beverages are free. Limited on-site parking is available; street parking is available and carpooling is encouraged.
This year’s showcase will feature over a dozen handpicked dishes made from scratch by Beacon Hill’s award-winning chefs and will include a variety of flavors and locally sourced ingredients. Menu items will include homemade mac and cheese bites, freshly prepared smoked sausages, Thai noodle salad, panzanella salad, meatballs, watermelon and berries, a full dessert station and much more.
Beacon Hill has a strong commitment to local ingredients, relying on its half-acre community garden to supply produce for its imaginative and appetizing meals that are acclaimed by guests and visitors alike. When the Beacon Hill chefs can’t produce ingredients themselves, they source from local purveyors, such as AP Baked Goods, Field and Fire, Louise Earl Butcher and Rowsters.
Nestled in the heart of the vibrant Eastgate neighborhood, Beacon Hill at Eastgate is home to four restaurants, which include an upscale Dining Room, Club Room, Garden Café and Bistro – all featuring world-class cuisine made using ingredients grown on-site. Each one has favorite dishes that are always available, as well as ever-changing daily and seasonal specials. Beacon Hill’s Garden Café and Bistro are open to the public.
Beacon Hill Residents at Summer Celebration (Courtesy, Beacon Hill)
Beacon Hill’s Summer Celebration started in the 1970s as the Strawberry Festival, a fundraising event organized by the Women’s Auxiliary of Michigan Christian Home, the name under which Beacon Hill at Eastgate was originally established. The Strawberry Festival raised thousands of dollars for the retirement community through the sale of homemade strawberry shortcake, sundaes and other treats. Since then, the Strawberry Festival has shifted to a culinary showcase paid for by Beacon Hill to thank its residents, their loved ones and the community for their support.
“What started as a fundraiser organized by a small group of volunteers has blossomed into a community-favorite tradition that has brought together thousands of new and old friends for evenings full of great food and entertainment,” Edwards said. “Decades later, the Summer Celebration upholds the original event’s mission of using exceptional, homemade food to build community and enrich the lives of our residents and neighbors.”
To learn more about Beacon Hill’s Summer Celebration, click here.
About Beacon Hill at Eastgate
Beacon Hill at Eastgate is home, family and security, dedicated to engaging seniors in an active and fulfilling retirement. Its state-of-the-art campus is a life plan retirement community that offers the complete continuum of care on one campus, including independent living, assisted living, memory care and skilled nursing and rehabilitation. Beacon Hill integrates a more highly defined service model characterized by best practices in the areas of social and clinical services with excellence in hospitality.
Hospice care team members who feel well-taken care of are better equipped to take care of patients. (Courtesy, Emmanuel Hospice)
By Emmanuel Hospice
It’s no secret the health care industry is experiencing a critical staffing shortage – and hospice is not immune from the trend.
According to a 2022-23 Hospice Salary & Benefits Report, turnover rates for registered hospice nurses reached 25.15% last year. Nurses also accounted for 16.97% of vacancies. Hospice aides and certified nurse aides, or CNAs, also represented a large percentage of job vacancies and saw high turnover rates, 19.05% and 29.84%, respectively. Providers have also reported shortages among social workers and nonclinical staff.
Overcoming this challenge requires a multi-faceted approach to recruit and retain team members. Candidates are seeking a better work culture that is supportive and collaborative, better compensation and benefits and a better organizational focus on patient care – not the bottom line.
Since its inception, Emmanuel Hospice has been working to differentiate itself in these areas. In addition to providing competitive pay, great mileage reimbursement, paid self-care days and holidays, among other benefits, the nonprofit leans on a thoughtful culture.
“We’re unique,” says Katie Joseph, Emmanuel’s Human Relations generalist. “Number one, we’re independent, so we’re not tied into a larger system where you can get bogged down in red tape.
“We’re very nimble, which makes us able to try new things easily. All of us are under one roof, so if someone has an idea, we’re apt to try it, especially if it shows promise of helping those we serve.”
Another way Emmanuel sets itself apart is by offering a wide array of complementary therapies – everything from essential oils to its Art Legacy program.
“Because of that spirit, we find ourselves with more tools in our tool kit,” Joseph says. “And that translates to more creativity and more opportunities to reach out to our patients and their families.”
Joseph emphasizes a third hallmark: The way Emmanuel’s leadership team cares for its staff members.
“We really do care for our employees,” she says. “We can’t take care of our patients if we aren’t also taking care of ourselves. When someone on our team says ‘What can I do for you today?’ they’re really asking that in a genuine way. Because we know if you’re feeling well-taken care of, you’re better equipped to do that for others.”
According to Joseph, the Emmanuel Hospice culture – its beliefs and values – is imbedded into every aspect of the organization, and to a newcomer, it’s evident from the first interview.
“We are intentionally thoughtful,” she says, “and from feedback we receive, we’re known for our transparency and supportive nature. We want our people to succeed, and in expressing that, nobody is ever treated like a number, like just another worker. In short, we care.”
Something called “vital behaviors” are also baked into everyday life at Emmanuel. Those are statements and affirmations that help all employees understand expectations, codes of conduct and the importance of consistent messaging.
“We start by assuming good intentions of one another,” says Joseph. “We believe in doing what we do and doing it well. And we’re life-long learners.
“Not only do we incorporate these behaviors into everything we do, but we are constantly reminding our staff of them through emails and other updates that stress respect and open communication. We want the best out of ourselves and one another.”
Emmanuel is also very thorough about its onboarding process for new employees, which involves careful transitioning and plenty of room for questions and feedback.
“We want someone to know ahead of time what a situation might require. It’s not unusual for a nurse to spend a half day with a massage or music therapist. That helps each team member realize what another does, and how it all fits together.
Retirement. Ah, that golden period of life we all look forward to. You’ve worked hard over the years and it’s finally time to enjoy the fruits of your labor. But before you sail off into the sunset, it’s essential to have a solid plan in place. There are some crucial questions to answer, so let’s dig in.
1. When do I want to retire? The “when” is more significant than you might think. Retiring too early might mean you’ll need to stretch your savings for a longer period. Wait too long, and you might not have as many healthy years to enjoy it. The age at which you retire can also affect your Social Security benefits. It’s a complex puzzle, and it’s worth spending time to piece it together.
2. How much money will I need in retirement? This is a biggie. You need to estimate your living costs in retirement. Will you travel? Do you plan to spoil the grandkids? Maybe you want to pick up some new hobbies? All of this will cost money. And don’t forget about healthcare – a significant expense for many retirees. You’ll also need to consider inflation; it can significantly erode your purchasing power over time.
3. Where will my income come from? Your days of drawing a regular paycheck are ending, so where will your money come from? Consider all sources of income: Social Security, pensions, retirement savings like 401(k)s and IRAs, annuities, and any other investments. Maybe you plan to work part-time? It all adds up. Just remember, some sources of income may be taxable, so make sure to account for that.
4. How will I spend my time? This might seem trivial compared to the financial questions, but it’s equally crucial. Staying mentally and physically active in retirement is essential for your health. Do you plan to travel, volunteer, go back to school, start a business, or spend more time with family? Maybe it’s a mix. Either way, it’s your time now. Make sure to spend it in ways that bring you joy and fulfillment.
5. What kind of legacy do I want to leave? Not everyone likes to talk about this, but it’s an essential part of retirement planning. Do you wish to leave something for your loved ones or a cause close to your heart? This could affect how you save and invest during retirement. Estate planning, including creating or updating your will and setting up any necessary trusts, is key here. It can ensure your wishes are followed and could help your heirs avoid unnecessary taxes and legal complications.
So, there you have it. Five vital questions to help you navigate your retirement journey. Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to any of these, and your answers might change over time. That’s okay. The important thing is to start thinking about these questions and making a plan. And don’t hesitate to reach out to professionals like financial advisors or estate attorneys. They can provide valuable guidance tailored to your specific situation. Here’s to a happy and fulfilling retirement!
Bonus Tip: The most important thing about retirement is having a comprehensive plan that includes a foundation of safe money which covers financial stability, healthcare needs, and personal fulfillment. This ensures that you have the resources to support your lifestyle and take care of any unexpected challenges, while also making the most of this new stage of life. Planning for retirement is an ongoing process and should be regularly reviewed and adjusted as needed.
Dave Stanley is the host of Safe Money Radio WOOD1300 AM, 106.9 FM and a Financial Advisor and Writer at Integrity Financial Service, LLC, Grandville, MI 49418, Telephone 616-719-1979 or Register for Dave’s FREE Newsletter at 888-998-3463 or click this link: Dave Stanley Newsletter – Annuity.comDave is a member of Syndicated Columnists, a national organization committed to a fully transparent approach to money management.
Understanding insurance can sometimes feel like you’re trying to decode a foreign language. But don’t worry! I’m here to help break down one type of insurance that’s important as we or our loved ones age – long term care insurance.
Starting with the basics, long term care insurance is designed to help cover the cost of services that assist with activities of daily living. These activities can include things like bathing, dressing, eating, or even moving around. The need for assistance with these activities could be due to aging, an illness, an accident, or a chronic condition.
It’s important to remember that long term care isn’t just provided in nursing homes. It can also be provided in your own home, in community centers, or assisted living facilities. In fact, a lot of folks prefer to receive care at home or in more home-like settings whenever possible.
Now, let’s get into how the insurance part works. When you purchase a long-term care insurance policy, you’ll pay a premium to the insurance company. This is usually a monthly or annual fee, just like with other types of insurance.
In return, if you need long term care services, the insurance company will pay a set amount towards your care. The amount they’ll pay and the types of services they’ll cover are outlined in your policy. Make sure you understand these details when you buy your policy!
One thing to note is that there is often an “elimination period,” or waiting period, before the insurance company starts to pay for your care. This could be anywhere from a few days to several months, depending on your policy. Think of it as a deductible, but instead of a dollar amount, it’s a period of time.
Also, just like most things in life, long term care insurance comes with limits. There might be a limit on how much the policy will pay per day, or there might be a total limit that the policy will pay over your lifetime. If the cost of your care goes over these limits, you’ll be responsible for paying the difference.
Here are a few tips about finding the right type of policy for your needs. Finding the right long-term care insurance policy is a very personal process that depends on many factors, such as your health, age, financial situation, and personal preferences.
Begin by evaluating your potential need for long-term care. Consider your current health status and family history. Do chronic or debilitating health conditions run in your family? What is your current lifestyle like? Are you physically active or do you have any habits that could affect your future health, like smoking or excessive drinking?
Next, consider your financial situation. The cost of long-term care insurance can be quite high, especially if you wait until you’re older to purchase a policy. Can you afford the premiums now, and will you be able to afford them in the future if they increase? Also, consider the other resources you might have to pay for long-term care, such as savings, investments, or family support. You may want to consult with a financial advisor to help you evaluate your situation.
Then, think about what kind of care you might want. Would you prefer to receive care at home for as long as possible, or are you open to receiving care in a facility, such as a nursing home or assisted living facility? The type of care you prefer can affect the kind of policy you should look for.
When comparing policies, pay close attention to the policy’s benefit triggers, which are the conditions that must be met for you to receive benefits. Most policies use a certain number of activities of daily living (ADLs) as a benefit trigger. The six ADLs are eating, bathing, getting dressed, toileting, transferring, and continence. Typically, if you need help with at least two ADLs, you qualify for benefits.
Finally, don’t rush your decision. Take your time to understand all the details of the policies you’re considering. And don’t be afraid to ask for help. A good insurance agent or broker who specializes in long-term care insurance can be a valuable resource in finding the right policy for you.
Dave Stanley is the host of Safe Money Radio WOOD1300 AM, 106.9 FM and a Financial Advisor and Writer at Integrity Financial Service, LLC, Grandville, MI 49418, Telephone 616-719-1979 or Register for Dave’s FREE Newsletter at 888-998-3463 or click this link: Dave Stanley Newsletter – Annuity.comDave is a member of Syndicated Columnists, a national organization committed to a fully transparent approach to money management.
As a Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly, Care Resources provides wraparound support services funded by Medicare and Medicaid to help people like Debra live a healthier and more independent life. (Courtesy, Care Resources)
Care Resources, a community-based program for people 55 years or older, enjoys being a lot of things to a lot of people, but for Debra, it transformed her life.
“I am,” she says with a hearty laugh, “a different person.”
Born and raised in Chicago, Debra, age 72, never knew her mother, who died while giving birth to her. She was raised by her father and a grandmother, staying in Illinois until she was about 20, working after graduating high school as a cashier in a grocery store.
She attended college for a couple of years, while simultaneously raising three children as a single mother. Her son and both daughters served in the United States armed services – the Army, Navy and Air Force, to be precise.
A self-described “people person,” Debra loved the give-and-take that came with working in retail jobs, and later, as a maid in hotels.
“I got to meet people from all over the world,” she recalls. “I so enjoyed listening to different languages being spoken.”
She moved to Michigan when her father purchased property here, moving to a small town outside of South Haven, where her children attended school and later launched their military careers.
After retiring and moving to Grand Rapids in 2019, she became ill with disorders she says were never properly diagnosed.
“I couldn’t really move hardly at all,” she says. “I couldn’t do anything for myself, and relied on my two daughters to wash me, to feed me.”
She suffered a bad fall from her bed, prompting her son-in-law – an employee at Care Resources – to insist she be seen by the organization’s medical team.
It was a transforming decision, giving her access to comprehensive health care services funded by Medicare and Medicaid.
“They came right to my house and did everything they had to do to assess me,” she said. “They got me a wheelchair. They got me a special bed.”
With these support services, Debra’s health improved markedly, to a point where she became able care for herself and control her daily affairs of living.
“I went from not walking, to a wheelchair, to a walker, to walking on my own,” she says proudly. “I did the therapy, the exercises – everything they told me to do.”
Today, she’s a regular at Care Resources’ headquarters on 4150 Kalamazoo Ave. SE in Grand Rapids, which features a day center, clinic and pharmacy. She boards the organization’s transportation bus to get there, and spends her time connecting with friends, playing Bingo, crafting and enjoying meals, among other activities.
Looking back, Debra credits Care Resources with putting her on the road to independence and keeping her in her own home rather than a nursing facility. That’s a hallmark of Care Resources, which provides medical care and a wide array of home health services to more than 300 participants in Kent County and portions of Allegan, Barry, Ionia and Ottawa counties.
“Did they change my life?” asks Debra. “They surely did! I was down and out and didn’t want to go anywhere or see anyone or do anything. But they wouldn’t let me stay down. They helped and encouraged me, cheered me up and never gave up on me.
“If it weren’t for them, I would not be walking today.”
Debra is still reeling from her first visit ever to Michigan’s Capitol building in Lansing, where she helped raise awareness of Care Resources as a Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly, or PACE, organization. Debra was one of several participants who shared personal stories with legislators about the impact of PACE on their lives.
To other older adults in West Michigan seeking ways to improve their lives, she suggests they visit Care Resources and “just come watch what they do; they’re like little bees buzzing around because everyone is just so eager to help others.”
To learn more about Care Resources and PACE services, visit CareResources.org.
Assisted living is a type of housing option for seniors or disabled individuals who need help with daily activities but still want to maintain some level of independence. It’s a middle ground between independent living (such as in a private home or senior apartments) and more intensive care services like those found in a nursing home.
Assisted living facilities typically offer a range of services to support residents, including:
Personal Care: Staff members are available to help with personal needs like bathing, dressing, eating, and mobility.
Medication Management: Assistance with taking the correct medications at the right times.
Meals: Facilities typically provide three meals a day tailored to the dietary needs of their residents.
Housekeeping and Laundry: Regular cleaning and laundry services are often included.
Social Activities and Recreation: Assisted living facilities often have a full schedule of activities and events to keep residents active and engaged. These might include fitness classes, arts and crafts, games, movie nights, and outings.
Transportation: Scheduled transportation services may be provided for shopping, appointments, and outings.
Healthcare Services: While not a replacement for a full-time medical facility, assisted living communities often have healthcare professionals on-site or on-call.
Security: To ensure residents’ safety, assisted living facilities typically have security features such as 24-hour staff, emergency call systems, and safe, walkable areas.
In an assisted living facility, each resident typically has their own apartment or room, and common areas are shared. The goal of assisted living is to provide a supportive living environment where seniors can maintain a level of independence, while also receiving the personal care and support they need.
Please note that rules, regulations, and services provided can vary widely from one facility to another and from state to state. Some facilities may offer more advanced medical care, while others may focus more on providing a social and community environment. It’s important to research and visit facilities in person to determine the best fit for individual needs and preferences.
Finding the right assisted living facility for yourself or a loved one involves careful research and planning. Here are some steps to guide you through the process.
First, evaluate the level of care that you or your loved one requires. This could be based on a variety of needs such as medical conditions, mobility, dietary needs, and personal care needs.
Next, begin doing online research to find assisted living facilities in the desired location. There are many websites and online directories where you can find information about different facilities. You can usually filter by location, services provided, cost, and more.
In addition to online research, contacting local health departments or agencies on aging could prove useful. These organizations often have resources that can help you navigate the process of finding an assisted living facility. They may also have knowledge of financial assistance programs.
After you have identified potential facilities, the next step is to schedule a visit. During your visit, pay attention to the environment, the staff, and the residents. This can give you an idea of what daily life is like at the facility.
Checking the facility’s safety and quality standards is another important step. This might involve looking into state inspection records, any violation histories, or any complaints made against the facility.
Lastly, cost is a significant consideration when choosing an assisted living facility. Make sure to understand what is included in the cost, and if there might be any additional charges for specific services.
Remember, choosing an assisted living facility is a big decision. Take your time to research and visit multiple facilities, and always ask any questions you may have to make sure you’re making the best choice for you or your loved one’s needs.
Dave Stanley is the host of Safe Money Radio WOOD1300 AM, 106.9 FM and a Financial Advisor and Writer at Integrity Financial Service, LLC, Grandville, MI 49418, Telephone 616-719-1979 or Register for Dave’s FREE Newsletter at 888-998-3463 or click this link: Dave Stanley Newsletter – Annuity.comDave is a member of Syndicated Columnists, a national organization committed to a fully transparent approach to money management.
In May, Faith Hospice, Holland Home’s hospice division, opened the doors to the Van Andel Hope & Healing Pavilion, which is located in the lower lever of Trillium Woods, in Byron Center.
The Van Andel Hope & Healing Pavilion opened in May. (Courtesy, Faith Hospice)
The project was completed due to the support of the Van Andel family with leadership of Amy Van Andel, a former Faith Hospice nurse.
The project allows all Faith Hospice staff and volunteers to work together under one roof and meets the growing needs for bereavement services for the families Faith Hospice serves across West Michigan.
Key features of the new facility include:
Grief Support Center
This new center will provide private and individual grief counseling as well as comfortable group and family counseling and gatherings. The center will allow space for comforting those struggling with the trauma of loss as well as space for community seminars and education.
Hospice Training & Education Lab
This training facility will create a Hospice Patient Care space to train staff and volunteers through role playing and skills testing, allowing for an enhanced care experience for patients and their loved ones.
Consolidated Office Space & Staff Renewal Area
Bringing all Faith Hospice staff under one roof will allow for better collaboration when caring for patients, whether they are inpatient at Trillium Woods or living in the community. The space includes an area for staff and volunteer respite and renewal.
“The Van Andel family are great friends of the organization, starting with Jay and Betty,” said Holland Home President and Chief Executive Officer Troy Vugteveen. “The Van Andel Hope and Healing Pavilion will continue to honor their parents and carry on the tradition to provide shelter to the hearts of those grieving. We are so grateful for Steve and Amy Van Andel and the blessing they continue to be.”
Built in 2006, Trillium Woods, 8214 Pfeiffer Farms Drive S.W, offers 20 private rooms and a peaceful, family-centered atmosphere with 24/7 medical care. The organization had only utilized the upper floor of the two-level walkout building for its inpatient care with the intent of using the lower level for additional education and administrative use.
The Inspiration
The inspiration for the center came from Faith Hospice Bereavement Manager Janet Jaymin and NFL official and West Michigan resident Carl Paganelli. After Janet walked with Carl on his grief journey following the death of his wife, Cathy, in 2016. Carl’s and Janet’s mission was to create a peaceful, private environment for those grieving as they seek grief counseling. Amy Van Andel, Nancy Erhardt and the late Dan Pfeiffer joined as campaign co-chairs and successfully completed a $2 million fundraising campaign to create this much-needed grief support and bereavement center.
A counseling room in the new Van Andel Hope & Healing (Courtesy, Faith Hospice)
“Walking alongside loved ones after they’ve experienced loss is such an important part of the hospice experience,” said Amy Van Andel. “We hope that having a facility dedicated to those who are grieving that offers resources to guide them on their journey will help families begin to heal and feel hope for the future.”
The Van Andel name is a continuation of the family’s involvement with Holland Home, which dates back to 1998 when the Van Andel Pavilion was constructed at Holland Home’s former Fulton Manor location. Funds for that facility were donated in honor of the late Betty Van Andel. Transferring the name from the former Fulton location was a natural fit for the family, allowing them to continue to honor their parents’ legacy.
At Emmanuel Hospice, helping someone have a “good death” is about delivering comfort and care that aligns with the unique needs and wishes expressed by each patient and their loved ones at the end of life. (Courtesy, Emmanuel Hospice/iStock)
Not everyone is comfortable with the term, but at Emmanuel Hospice, professional caregivers are increasingly leaning on the concept of a “good death,” and gently sharing with their patients how embracing it can help them transition from this world to the next.
“There’s no one definition for it, but in virtually every case, it has to do with paying attention to a person’s goals at the end of life,” says Eleazar “Ellie” Lopez, a spiritual caregiver at Emmanuel Hospice. “What do you want and how can we help? How can we deliver that comfort and care?”
Relatively speaking, a “good death” is a fairly new term that is understood in different ways across various places and cultures. Some experts tend to agree it should focus on a death free from avoidable distress and suffering, a hallmark of hospice care in general. There also is consensus a good death aligns with needs and wishes expressed by patients and their loved ones.
“It can be different, though, for each person,” Lopez points out. “For me, I would make sure I’d apologize to people I may have hurt during my life. And I’d want to make sure my family was with me. So, it would be about reconciliation and relationships.”
Lopez recalls that just last month, he counseled a woman who was having issues with her children, and asked, “How can we make the most of this Mother’s Day?” because it was possible she would not be alive to celebrate another.
Lopez believes one of the best ways to dignify people and help them have a good death is to listen to their stories – and be aware of how those stories connect us to one another and celebrate both our differences and commonalities.
“Each life is a story worth telling,” he says, “and each experience helps make that story special to that individual. So, you listen, and I believe listening is what I’m good at. When a person passes, their stories are now my stories, and I have them in me.”
Lopez brings a unique perspective to his job. He labored for many years in the restaurant industry, as well as in a heat-treatment facility. He’s been employed at Emmanuel for just under two years.
He’s generous with his time and gifts, aware that when he visits a hospital or retirement community, a complete stranger might summon him to their bedside upon discovering the role he plays: “I might pray with several people in a day whom I wasn’t there to visit.”
In taking time for patients, Lopez believes he’s helping people create that good death because someone is acknowledging thoughts and feelings that can assist them in moving forward in a positive way on what is arguably a difficult journey.
“Their goals become my goals,” he says. “I support them in the moment, and where they are in that moment. I want to offer quality over quantity of life. At Emmanuel, it’s what we do. It’s who we are.”
Julie Dekam, a medical assistant supporting the Care Resources nursing team, obtains a blood sugar reading from participant Dora in the clinic. (Courtesy, Care Resources)
Nancy Baker and Barbara Scothorn share a single mission as nurses: keeping seniors out of hospitals and nursing homes.
That mission is at the heart of their employer’s approach to health care. Both work for Care Resources, an innovative community-based program for people 55 years and older that promotes healthy and independent living for residents of Kent County and portions of Allegan, Barry, Ionia and Ottawa counties.
“We always know the nurse’s primary role is education,” explained Baker, who serves as clinic and day center manager for Care Resources. “Often a provider can be talking to a participant, but it’s really the nurse who can help them understand how to manage their diabetes or COPD.”
Scothorn agreed, adding: “Nurses are there to work with a participant and help them meet their goal, which is staying in their home and out of the hospital. It’s a partnership. We work with participants and their families to provide wrap-around services that supplement what they are able to do. Families play a huge role, and we take them into consideration in our planning.”
Scothorn serves as manager of home care and intake enrollment for Care Resources, which is a Program of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly, or PACE®. Funded by Medicare and Medicaid, PACE services require no out-of-pocket payments for those who meet income requirements.
Care Resources offers a day center, clinic and pharmacy in its 36,000-square-foot facility in Grand Rapids that deliver a wide range of health care services as well as opportunities that promote socialization, build community and offer respite to caregivers. The nonprofit also provides home health services, including family and caregiver support, home care services and rehab and durable medical equipment, such as walkers, wheelchairs, oxygen and diabetic testing supplies.
All of this support, Baker and Scothorn know, is critical in keeping participants safe at home. They listed a host of reasons why people 55 years and older often wind up needing acute medical care:
Worsening medical conditions that go unnoticed when loved ones aren’t around.
Poorly managed medication, including skipped or doubled doses.
Unobserved changes to breathing, blood pressure or weight that signal larger health issues.
Poor nutrition and dehydration, which can cause a cascade of other health issues.
Social isolation, which can lead to rapid or steady decline in physical and mental health.
“My nurses in the clinic are great on triage and assessment,” Baker said. “They complement the work of Barb’s nurses and home health aides, who play a vital role in seeing what patients go through every day and addressing issues before they become problems.”
Baker and Scothorn highlight simple things loved ones can do to ensure older adults can be safe at home, including:
Ongoing education to help better manage chronic conditions, such as diabetes, or disease progression for illnesses such as Alzheimer’s and heart failure.
Medication assistance, such as setting up pills in a med box or med wheel so it’s easier to keep track of daily doses.
Home safety checks, such as removing throw rugs to prevent falls and installing grab bars instead of towel racks.
Meal preparation, such as stocking their freezers with meals they like and to improve their nutrition.
Transportation support to ensure they can get to their medical and other appointments.
Social support and a safe place to go during the day, such as the Care Resources day center, for stimulation and engagement – and to give caregivers a needed break.
“These are great steps to help older adults stay healthy and remain in their homes,” Scothorn said. “Nurses can provide an additional layer of support. We are often the first to notice changes and issues – we’re trained to watch and take action to help community members age safely in place.”
The Senior Expo will take place on May 24 at the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. (Courtesy, Frederik Meijer Gardens)
In many ways, a walk around the building and grounds of the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park is the perfect place for a bit of physical and mental health “me time” for local senior community members.
And what better time to visit than the return of the free-to-the-public West Michigan Senior Expo at Meijer Gardens on Wednesday, May 24, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Registration to the expo also offers free admission to the Meijer Gardens indoor and outdoor art and gardens.
The range of senior — and senior caregiver — advocacy and service groups attending the Senior Expo is expected to include more than 50 Grand Rapids and West Michigan organizations that specialize assisted living, Alzheimer’s information, home care, Veterans benefits, mobility solutions, Medicare and much more.
More than 50 local and regional organizations will be present at the West Michigan Senior Expo at Meijer Gardens. (courtesy, Meijer Gardens)
For one local health-care organization, Pine Rest Christian Mental Health Services, attending the expo and serving the senior community is a calling as much as a business opportunity.
“We view the seniors who turn to us for care as our friends, our grandparents, and our neighbors because that’s who they are,” Matt Hiskes, spokesperson for Pine Rest. “We value and offer a full continuum of services for seniors because they are an essential part of the community that makes West Michigan great.”
Hiskes also stressed that mental health is as important as physical health for seniors.
“Individuals often face some of the most challenging aspects of life during their senior years: housing changes, loss of family members and friends, individual medical concerns, loss of mobility, and changing family dynamics,” Hiskes said. “These issues can be incredibly impactful on a person’s mental well-being, yet many individuals never seek the help they need.
“It’s important for seniors to know that help is available, that there is no shame in seeking mental health care, and that people can live better, longer lives when they focus on caring for their mental health.”
Health care screenings and a stroll through art, nature
The “rain or shine” expo will be held in-doors and will offer a variety of free health screenings — not to mention hourly prize drawings, giveaways and complimentary refreshments.
Among the groups and businesses expected to attend are BP Realty, Baldwin House, Battle Creek VA Media Center, Boichot Insurance Agency, Care Resources PACE (GR), Center for Vein Restoration, Eden Home Care, Estate Planning Legal Services, Grand Brook Memory Care, Health Alliance Plan, Hearing Life, Life EMS Ambulance, Lincoln Square Senior Living Holiday by Atria (GR), McDonald Hearing Services, National Benefit Plans, Neptune Society, Sentinel Pointe Retirement Community, St. Ann’s Home, United Healthcare, and Victory Financial Insurance Agency.
After the event, attendees can enjoy the recently opened indoor exhibit of “Cristina Iglesias: Under and In Between”. Running through September, the exhibition surveys 20 years of work from one of Spain’s most renowned artists. The exhibit includes the artist’s “Pozo XI”, recently installed in the Tassell–Wisner–Bottrall English Perennial Garden as part of Meijer Garden’s permanent sculpture collection.
And if you haven’t been on the grounds lately, a somber but powerful stop should be Jerusalem-born artist Ariel Schlesinger’s “Ways to Say Goodbye” located in the Holocaust Memorial Garden.
Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park is located at 1000 East Beltline Ave NE, Grand Rapids. For more information visit meijergardens.org
One of the Mission Point Healthcare facilities utilizing the new UV-C disinfection technology is HealthBridge Post-Acute Rehabilitation located in Wyoming. (Courtesy, Mission Point Healthcare Services)
Mission Point Healthcare Services, in partnership with R-Zero, has announced the use of UV-C disinfection technology across its 27 Michigan locations, which includes locations in Grandville, Cedar Springs, Wyoming and Grand Rapids. UV-C light comes from special lamps that generate wavelengths of light between 200nm (nanometers) and 280nm that help kill germs, bacteria, pathogens, and viruses. R-Zero systems utilize this UV-C technology to neutralize approximately 99.99% of airborne microorganisms that are harmful to humans.
This new technology, which includes nearly 300 R-Zero Beam and Vive devices to be installed for continuous disinfection, will help to protect approximately 5,350 residents and staff across Mission Point facilities.
Mission Point is a full-service healthcare service and management company that utilized funding for this technology from the Infection Control Grants made available by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS). The MDHHS grants aim to support structural and operational improvements in skilled nursing facilities to help reduce the spread of infectious diseases across Michigan.
“The opportunity to deploy R-Zero’s proven air quality technology through a generous grant from MDHHS was a powerful combination for us,” said Mission Point COO Paul Pruitt.
Creating Healthy Environments
R-Zero is a global leader in creating healthy and green buildings with bio-safety technology. With the combination of UV-C light, space utilization sensor technology, artificial intelligence, machine learning, and IoT(internet of things)-connected hardware the company is able to create safe and sustainable environments without the use of chemicals.
R-Zero’s sustainable technology is currently being used across all of North America to protect millions of people in a multitude of environments including K-12 schools, college campuses, hospitals, parks and recreation centers, and government buildings/facilities.
“R-Zero is proud to partner with Mission Point Healthcare Services to drive forward their commitment to keeping residents and staff safe and living healthy and happy lives,” said R-Zero CEO Jennifer Nuckles.
This new UV-C disinfection technology will help support the safety and lives of those at Mission Point Healthcare Services and further Mission Point Healthcare’s steadfast commitment to protecting patients and staff.
Retirement can be a time of great joy and relaxation, but it can also be a time of stress and anxiety. Transitioning from working life to retirement can be challenging, and the loss of routine, identity, and social connections can be difficult to navigate. Moreover, retirement can bring new financial and health-related concerns, adding to many retirees’ stress.
One of the main sources of stress in retirement is financial uncertainty. Many retirees worry about whether they have saved enough money to support themselves in retirement and fear running out of money before the end of their lives. This fear can lead to anxiety and can make it difficult for retirees to enjoy their retirement years. Moreover, unexpected expenses, such as medical bills or home repairs, can further exacerbate financial stress and add to retirees’ worries.
Retirement can also bring changes to social connections, which can be stressful for many people. Retirees may miss their daily interactions with colleagues and feel disconnected from the workplace and the sense of purpose that work provides. Moreover, retirement can lead to changes in relationships with family and friends, as retirees may find that they have more time on their hands than their loved ones do.
In addition to these social and financial concerns, retirement can also be stressful from a health perspective. As people age, they may face new health challenges, such as chronic illness, that can impact their quality of life and add to their stress levels. Furthermore, retirement can lead to a more sedentary lifestyle, which can contribute to a decline in physical and mental health.
There are several strategies that retirees can use to manage stress and navigate the transition to retirement more smoothly. One of the most important is to maintain a sense of purpose and engagement in life. Retirees can find new hobbies or interests, volunteer, or take on part-time work to stay engaged and connected to others. This can help alleviate the sense of loss and disconnection that many retirees feel.
Another strategy is to stay socially connected. Retirees can stay in touch with former colleagues, join social clubs or groups, or participate in community activities to maintain a sense of connection and purpose. This can help prevent social isolation and loneliness, which can be detrimental to both physical and mental health.
Moreover, retirees can take steps to manage their financial concerns by creating a budget, working with a financial advisor, and exploring different retirement income sources, such as Social Security or annuities. This can help alleviate financial stress and provide a sense of security and stability.
Finally, retirees can take steps to maintain their physical and mental health by staying active, eating well, and seeking medical care when needed. Engaging in regular physical activity can help improve mood, reduce stress, and prevent or manage chronic illness.
In conclusion, retirement can be a time of stress and uncertainty, but there are strategies that retirees can use to manage these challenges and enjoy a fulfilling and healthy retirement. By maintaining a sense of purpose and engagement, staying socially connected, managing finances, and prioritizing physical and mental health, retirees can navigate the transition to retirement more smoothly and enjoy a fulfilling and rewarding retirement.
Dave Stanley is the host of Safe Money Radio WOOD1300 AM, 106.9 FM and a Financial Advisor and Writer at Integrity Financial Service, LLC, Grandville, MI 49418, Telephone 616-719-1979 or Register for Dave’s FREE Newsletter at 888-998-3463 or click this link: Dave Stanley Newsletter – Annuity.comDave is a member of Syndicated Columnists, a national organization committed to a fully transparent approach to money management.
An activity area in one of the day centers operated by Care Resources. (WKTV/D.A. Reed)
“There is nothing like coming home, putting your key in the door, and opening it and smelling your smells and understanding where you are…and feeling comfortable. We all want that. We can help make that dream come true longer,” said Veronica Horsley-Pettigrew, Community Outreach and Marketing Supervisor at Care Resources.
A 2021 AARP Home and Community Preferences Survey showed that 77 percent of adults 50 and older want to remain in their homes for the long term, a number that AARP noted has been consistent for more than a decade.
As noted by the National Library of Medicine, culture plays a role in shaping individuals’ attitudes toward elder care. Asian cultures have emphasized family elder care at home and as a result, 50 years ago the Program of All Inclusive Care for the Elderly or PACE was created.
In 1994, Michigan became one of the first pilot programs and today, the state has 14 PACE programs at 21 centers and nationwide, there are 273 sites in 32 states.
“We are committed to our participants,” Horsley-Pettigrew said. “We are an aging society, and we need to take care of each other.”
Growing Interest Creates a Growing Demand
The second PACE program to launch in the state of Michigan was Care Resources, which has been helping to keep West Michigan seniors out of nursing homes since 2006.
The “Four Seasons” art was created by staff and participants. It took almost two years and was made entirely of crayons. (WKTV/D.A. Reed)
A community-based program for people 55 years or older, Care Resources provides comprehensive care to the senior citizens of Kent County, as well as portions of Allegan, Barry, Ionia, and Ottawa counties, while promoting healthy, independent living and helping prevent nursing home placement.
Care Resources has grown over the years. In 2018, to meet expansion needs, the organization renovated the former John Knox Presbyterian Church, 4150 Kalamazoo Ave. SW, with the express purpose of caring for the aging community of West Michigan.
“We are the glue,” said Tom Muszynski, chief operating officer of Care Resources. “Overall, we are their case managers. We always look to family first, because family generally wants to know what is going on and be a part of it, but if there is no family available, then we take that piece of it too.”
Since opening its Kalamazoo Avenue headquarters in 2019, Care Resources is looking to expand yet again, having almost doubled its service area in November 2021 due to an ever-increasing need for care of local senior citizens.
In 2022, Care Resources served 374 participants, provided 3,048 meals, distributed 702 activity bags, traveled 349,569 miles transporting participants, and totaled 36,554 home care hours for an average 46 months of participant care.
Interest in PACE programs continues to grow with some discussion of adding more programs in Michigan’s Northern Lower Peninsula and expanding into the Upper Peninsula, where there currently are no programs.
Locally, interest in Care Programs has increased with Muszynski stating there are plans to open a second location in Grand Rapids with Care Resources planning to seek federal and state approval at the end of June.
‘Bingo’ and More
Care Resources provides transportation with a fleet of 20 vehicles; an on-site physician, medical clinic, and 2,200 square-foot pharmacy; vision, dental, audiology, and foot care services; laundry and shower facilities; an extensive therapy gym; and grocery shopping services.
Also at its Kalamazoo Avenue location is a fully-staffed day center, which currently serves about 100 participants at various levels. There are various activities, such as stretching programs, classic car shows, and visiting animals along with two outdoor courtyards, a meditation room, and a walking trail.
“Our goal is to really treat people with dignity, but to also get them up and moving,” said Muszynski. “The building is specifically designed to be spread out, so they have to get up and move a little bit.”
The highlight, however, is Bingo.
“They can purchase items at our Bingo store,” Muszynski said as he opened a room lined with shelves and stacked to the brim with an assortment of items. “Fun items, as well as items they can’t get with their Michigan Bridge Card.”
Eligibility
Care Resources PACE eligibility requirements include being 55 or older, meeting the nursing facility level of care, being able to be safe in their home with PACE services at the time of enrollment, and qualifying for Medicaid according to PACE Medicaid requirements.
The Care Resources therapy room. (WKTV/D.A. Reed)
“When they first enroll in the program, they have to be deemed safe in the community with PACE services,” said Muszynski, adding he encourages people to think about when they might need PACE services and strive toward early identification. “PACE is not crisis intervention—there is a process to get into the program. With Medicaid, it could be 30 days or so because we can only enroll on the first of the month. Without Medicaid, it could potentially be a couple of months.”
Muszynski also said to remember that there are several factors that qualify people for skilled nursing, and that it is not always an extreme of going from a hospital to a bed-ridden state. It could include a myriad of things from forgetfulness to treatment such as feeding tubes or dialysis.
Horsley-Pettigrew agreed that having a medical assessment completed is vital before making long-term decisions on care. “It could simply be coordination of care and medication that is needed, and that person may not need to be put in a nursing home,” said Horsley-Pettigrew. “The coordination of care and the proper medication really keep away some of the seriousness of (issues) escalating.”
Continuing to Build Awareness
One of the benefits Muszynski said he has seen in Care Resource participants is a sense of belonging.
“They get involved in our program, and people who weren’t even getting dressed are now getting dressed and doing their hair because they are coming to see their friends,” he said. “It really allows them to get involved in the community and get out of the house.”
One of the the Care Resources’ vehicles. (WKTV./D.A. Reed)
Muszynski and Horsley-Pettigrew are continually meeting and working with state legislators to keep them educated on the benefits of PACE programs. In May of 2022, the PACE Association of Michigan (PAM) hosted its Day at the Capitol in Lansing, allowing PACE staff and participants to share their personal stories about how the program is impacting their lives.
“We’ve got some real champions in Lansing,” said Muszynski. “That’s part of (our) success in Michigan, is the support of the state. It’s phenomenal.”
To find out more about the Care Resources PACE program, visit Care Resources PACE. Volunteer opportunity inquiries at Care Resources can be directed to Karen Altom at 616-913-2036 or karen.altom@careresources.org.
Left, Rachel Baxter, a registered nurse with Emmanuel Hospice, focuses her attention on the needs of patient June Winstanley. Working in hospice care, Baxter treats every patient like they’re her only one – making the most of every precious moment. (Couresty, Emmanuel Hospice)
A “typical day” in the life of a hospice nurse?
Well, that’s a tough one. Because arguably, it doesn’t exist.
Just ask Rachel Baxter, a registered nurse with Emmanuel Hospice, who is greeted every workday by a schedule that is anything but typical.
What every day does guarantee, however, is that as an ambassador for hospice, she will be challenged to provide top-notch care and treat every patient like they’re her only one.
“You learn to expect the unexpected,” says Baxter, a healthcare provider the better part of a decade. “Often, I make a plan first thing in the morning that looks great on paper, but with a single text or phone call, everything can change, which requires me to be flexible.
“It’s what you do when you’re trying to make every moment count for every patient to whom you’re providing care.”
Serving as a hospice nurse demands you remain nimble during the workday, looking for opportunities to tap into an array of services a hospice care provider like Emmanuel offers. When caring for patients, Emmanuel Hospice draws on a holistic approach that focuses on mind, body and spirit.
“I rely on a very talented team of providers,” Baxter says, taking her cues from other Emmanuel Hospice practitioners and therapists who specialize in areas from pain management to playing music to providing medical massages.
“We differentiate ourselves in that way,” she says. “It’s what sets us apart, and makes us especially capable of helping our clients along on their journey.”
The interdisciplinary team is all about collaboration and communication, sharing resources, skills and expertise to deliver care with compassion and ensure all needs are met.
“I put my absolute trust in judgment and knowledge of my co-workers,” she says. “We all see different things, and it’s vital we share that information because it’s in the best interest of the patient and that patient’s family.”
Working in hospice care, Rachel Baxter treats every patient like they’re her only one – making the most of every precious moment. (Couresty, Emmanuel Hospice)
This extends in varied ways especially when serving a patient in the privacy of their home, which can contrast markedly from treating someone in a facility.
“When you’re in someone’s home, it can begin to feel like your own,” Baxter says. “You might be there often with a spouse or other members of the family. You begin to see rhythms and patterns, and you adapt and adjust to those. You become acutely aware of the sights, sounds and other elements important to your patient.”
Baxter might see three patients in a workday or as many as six or seven. While she might serve anyone within Emmanuel Hospice’s service area, she primarily sees patients near the lakeshore before returning to her own home in Zeeland. She appreciates the flexibility of her schedule, which allows her to enjoy her surroundings and read or crochet during breaks.
While the care she provides can change from patient to patient, there is always one constant: “I’m focusing on every precious moment my patient has left. I want to be calm and confident, warm and reassuring. How do you feel? What can I do? How do you want to live?
“Living life to the fullest – no matter the time left – is what we’re all about.”
The City of Kentwood and Georgetown Seniors once again will be hosting the Spotlight on Seniors Expo, Tuesday, April 18.
The Spotlight on Seniors Expo returns to the Kentwood Activities Center April 18. (WKTV)
The 24th annual event, which will take place at the Kentwood Activities Center, 355 48th St. SE, is designed to connect the community with senior-focused resources. The free indoor event features more than 50 vendors from a variety of community businesses, free health screenings, door prizes, free lunch and more.
“We’re fortunate to have many community resources focused on healthy living for all ages in and around Kentwood,” said Kentwood Recreation Program Coordinator Shelby Henshaw. “The Spotlight on Seniors Expo gives older adults and other community members an opportunity to come together to celebrate successful aging and learn more about available services.
“We’re grateful for our continued partnership with Georgetown Seniors on this community-favorite event, as well as our sponsors.”
Vendors represent a wide variety of industries, with professionals knowledgeable in everything from physical therapy and hearing services to recreational opportunities and retirement planning.
“Active, connected lifestyles are key for our seniors to lead happy, healthy lives,” said Pam Haverdink, director of the Georgetown Senior Center. “We are pleased to partner with Kentwood Seniors once again to host this successful event and are grateful to the vendors who help make it happen.”
The gold sponsors of the 24th annual Spotlight on Seniors Expo are HAP, Humana, Tim Hortons, The Oaks at Byron Center and We Care 4 U, LLC. United Healthcare is a silver sponsor.
Annuities are a great way to ensure your financial security in the long term. Annuities provide regular payments that can help you pay bills and cover other expenses while also helping protect against inflation and market downturns. Annuities are popular with many retirees as they offer a steady income stream that can last throughout retirement.
The question is, how much income does an annuity payout on average?
The answer depends on several factors, including what type of annuity you purchase and the terms of the agreement. Annuities typically guarantee a fixed payment amount or can be variable, depending on the performance of certain investments or indexes. Annuities are also available with riders that increase the amount of income you receive.
If you’re purchasing a fixed annuity, the amount of income is predetermined by the terms of the agreement and is typically based on your age and the length of time over which payments will be received. Annuities with guaranteed payouts usually offer higher rates than variable annuities, which depend largely on investment performance. Annuity income may also be increased by adding riders like inflation protection or other options that guarantee additional payments.
Generally, an annuity can provide anywhere from several hundred dollars to several thousand dollars a month in retirement income, depending on the type of product purchased and any riders added. As with most investments, it’s essential to consider all of your options before purchasing an annuity to ensure you’re getting the best deal.
Maximizing your payout
In addition, there are several steps you can take to maximize your annuity income and get more out of your investment. Annuitants should review their policy details regularly, as rates may change over time. Annuitants should also consider adding riders to their policy if it suits their particular circumstances. These additional features may help increase the income received from an annuity. Annuitants may also increase the amount of money they receive by taking a lump sum distribution option or electing periodic payments.
Overall, as stated above, the average income from an annuity will depend on the type of product purchased, any added riders, and other factors. Annuity income may range from several hundred dollars to a few thousand dollars per month, depending on the type of annuity and any riders added. By reviewing policy details regularly and adding riders to their policy, annuitants may be able to increase the amount of money they receive from an annuity. Annuities are a great way to ensure your retirement financial security, so make sure you understand your options before investing.
If you’re considering an annuity as a part of your retirement income, it’s essential to understand your options. Contact an annuity expert to learn more about the different types of annuities and how they can help secure your financial future.
Dave Stanley is the host of Safe Money Radio WOOD1300 AM, 106.9 FM and a Financial Advisor and Writer at Integrity Financial Service, LLC, Grandville, MI 49418, Telephone 616-719-1979 or Register for Dave’s FREE Newsletter at 888-998-3463 or click this link: Dave Stanley Newsletter – Annuity.comDave is a member of Syndicated Columnists, a national organization committed to a fully transparent approach to money management.
In my line of work, I have the unfortunate job to deal with the passing of someone’s spouse, parent, or sibling. I see in these moments of grief I know how, if the details aren’t thought of ahead of time, the pain can be compounded with the frustration of trying to navigate through the messiness of financial matters not thought of ahead of time.
Recently, a friend died, her husband not only has to deal with the grief of losing his spouse, but also with all the details of their financial life.
It soon became evident that he did not know the details of their finances (he didn’t even know the password to the checking account). And because of this, I thought that I would take the time to share what I advise my clients to do regarding the preparation of what is inevitable.
I advise my clients to keep a list of all their accounts (checking, savings, CD, annuities, life, mutual funds, etc.) in their Safe Documents folder. In it along with names and phone numbers of their advisors for each of those accounts. For the checking, savings, CD’s, etc., those accounts should have a POD (Payable On Death), as well as having their passwords for those accounts given to someone they trust.
The reason I say giving the password to someone they trust you ask? What happens if the mortgage needs to be paid and yet the death certificate is not available yet? Even though the account may have the POD, until the death certificate is produced, only those on the account has authority to access the accounts to take care of any necessities.
When it comes to a spouse having to deal with the financial decisions; the grief can cloud their choices, and that is why having a plan written out and discussed with the family and the advisor can take away one less decision to make, since it has already been made. This is especially true when it comes to planning the funeral.
All the proper planning in the world will not be beneficial if the information cannot be found during the crucial days and weeks following the loss of a loved one, or not having a written-out plan and discussed with an unbiased advisor and attorney to help carry out those wishes. While the topic is maybe challenging to discuss, it is essential.
Here are some tips of things to have in your Safe Documents Folder.
Will: If the deceased had a will, it outlines how their assets will be distributed and who will be in charge of carrying out their wishes.
Trust documents: If the deceased had a trust, the trust document outlines how assets will be distributed and who will manage the trust.
Life insurance policy: The policy outlines the benefits and who the beneficiaries are.
Marriage certificate: If the deceased was married, the marriage certificate may be needed to prove their relationship with their spouse.
Social Security card: The Social Security Administration will need to be notified of the death, and the deceased’s Social Security number will need to be included on certain forms.
Military discharge papers: If the deceased served in the military, their discharge papers may
Being prepared is smart planning.
Dave Stanley is the host of Safe Money Radio WOOD1300 AM, 106.9 FM and a Financial Advisor and Writer at Integrity Financial Service, LLC, Grandville, MI 49418, Telephone 616-719-1979 or Register for Dave’s FREE Newsletter at 888-998-3463 or click this link: Dave Stanley Newsletter – Annuity.comDave is a member of Syndicated Columnists, a national organization committed to a fully transparent approach to money management.
By Emily Armstrong Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan
Oral health is an integral component of overall wellness. Yet access to dental services can be a serious barrier for older adults to maintain their oral health. Each year the Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan (AAAWM) partners with Grand Rapids Community College to host Senior Dental Day; an event that helps older adults in Kent County engage their oral health and find a new dental provider.
Last year, the event served 18 individuals, providing dental cleanings, x-rays, and exams conducted by GRCC dental program students. To qualify, seniors must be over 60 years of age and have not been to the dentist within the last 12 months. Held at Cook Academic Hall at GRCC’s downtown campus, the event will take place this year on Monday, March 20.
“We’re so thrilled to again offer the Senior Dental Day initiative. This is an event we look forward to each year and the partnership with Grand Rapids Community College gives us the chance to connect with high-risk seniors and connect them with services to support their health and independence,” shared Brandon Beck, Contract Administrator with the Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan.
Locally, AAAWM supports oral health in a variety of ways. In Kent County, the Kent County Senior Millage (KCSM) network provides low-cost dental services to Kent County residents 60 years or older in partnership with Cherry Health and Exalta Health. AAAWM is also a member of the Kent County Oral Health Coalition, a group focused on advocacy and outreach in the West Michigan.
If you have any questions about this year’s event, you can reach out to Brandon at BrandonB@aaawm.org. If you’re an older adult in Kent County seeking dental services, you can contact the Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan at 616-456-5664 to be connected to resources.
