Aging in Style with Lori Williams

The holidays are a time for togetherness and making memories, but the reality is it can also bring stress and disappointment. Holiday traditions may need to evolve over time as family dynamics and situations change, including when a loved one has Alzheimer’s or dementia.

Megan Rowe is the Senior Program Manager with the Alzheimer’s Association: Dallas and Northeast Texas chapter - and she has helpful tips if you’re a caregiver or celebrating with someone who needs a little extra help.

Megan recommends planning and making adjustments alongside your loved ones. Come together to discuss where your focus should be and what will bring the most joy to your family member with dementia or Alzheimer’s. Then you can work together to make it a reality.

Set expectations

First, it’s important to have a meeting with your loved ones to make sure they understand the situation. The Alzheimer’s Association website offers a letter template if you need help explaining the reality of your loved one’s state to them. It may have been months or years since your family has seen your loved one, and maybe they’re unprepared for how your loved one has regressed. Be sure to set boundaries and expectations around what you can and cannot do, giving yourself permission to only do what you can manage.

While some traditions may not make sense considering your loved one’s situation, try finding a suitable alternative. For example, hosting a holiday with 20 people can be overwhelming with someone who has dementia. Consider having a more intimate holiday – or, set aside a designated quiet space for your loved one to take breaks from the action. If you’re accustomed to making a holiday feast by yourself, you might order food ahead of time or host a potluck-style meal so others can chip in.

Also consider the environment. Those with dementia have sensory differences, so beware of fake food and too many blinking lights. Make the other guests aware of anything that could be dangerous to your loved one as well.

You don’t need to manage everything on your own. It’s better for you (and your loved one with dementia / Alzheimer’s) to have a community on your side. It takes a village, and the more helping hands, the better. With their help, you can allow yourself to indulge in self-care and anything that manages your stress.

Topics discussed:

Alzheimer’s and dementia

The Alzheimer’s Association

Holiday planning with dementia

Tips for caregivers around the holidays

Tips for Alzheimer’s during holidays

How to help caregivers

Takeaways from this episode:

-Always include your loved ones in discussing options as you figure out what your holiday should look like.

- Caregivers tend to mask their loved one’s state, so others won’t worry, but you should familiarize them with the situation, so everyone is on the same page.

-Find safe, enjoyable, and purposeful ways for your loved one to help with the holidays. Maybe it’s as simple as polishing silver or setting the table.

-Those with dementia or Alzheimer’s tend to be more active in the morning. Meeting in the late afternoon or at dinnertime is less ideal and more tiring.

-Think of appropriate gifts for your loved one. Avoid buying them pets (this could be an additional stressor for caregivers). Caregivers can benefit from less traditional gifts such as meal delivery or handyman service.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

Navigating the Holiday Season While Living with Early-Onset Alzheimer’s

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1sYDGswQhRDN7OOzxzpQxN79eS6CZbO-N/view?usp=share_link

https://www.alz.org/blog/alz/december-2021/navigating-the-holiday-season-while-living-with-ea

Lifelike pets for seniors with dementia:

Cat:

https://www.amazon.com/JOY-ALL-Innovation-Companion-Realistic/dp/B078FFX7Q8/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?crid=1OPV43TYX9G9X&keywords=lifelike%2Bpets%2Bfor%2Badults&qid=1670963206&sprefix=lifelike%2Bpets%2Bfor%2Badult%2Caps%2C129&sr=8-1-spons&ufe=app_do%3Aamzn1.fos.f5122f16-c3e8-4386-bf32-63e904010ad0&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUEzMjlDTkFKWDVCUVM4JmVuY3J5cHRlZElkPUEwMjEyNjgxU0FZRElFM1hWS0lMJmVuY3J5cHRlZEFkSWQ9QTA0NjQzMTlFR1JGRjlVQzNFMzMmd2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9hdGYmYWN0aW9uPWNsaWNrUmVkaXJlY3QmZG9Ob3RMb2dDbGljaz10cnVl&th=1

Dog:

https://www.amazon.com/JOY-ALL-Soft-Touch-Realistic-Interactive/dp/B00CWY1U74/ref=sr_1_2_sspa?crid=1OPV43TYX9G9X&keywords=lifelike%2Bpets%2Bfor%2Badults&qid=1670963316&sprefix=lifelike%2Bpets%2Bfor%2Badult%2Caps%2C129&sr=8-2-spons&ufe=app_do%3Aamzn1.fos.f5122f16-c3e8-4386-bf32-63e904010ad0&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUEzR0daSzJEMzU5RUlaJmVuY3J5cHRlZElkPUEwMTEwMDcyM0ZTRUtKSUwzUjdSJmVuY3J5cHRlZEFkSWQ9QTAxNDk1MzdVSUc4QlRLS1kyTzImd2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9hdGYmYWN0aW9uPWNsaWNrUmVkaXJlY3QmZG9Ob3RMb2dDbGljaz10cnVl&th=1

To suggest a topic, be a guest or to support the podcast, please email [email protected]

For more senior resources and to sign up to the newsletter, please visit:

https://www.facebook.com/LoriWilliamsSeniorServices/

https://www.instagram.com/theloriwilliams/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/theloriwilliams/

https://loriwilliams-seniorservices.com/aging-in-style-podcast/

It’s a busy time of year and you may find yourself scrambling to find gifts for everyone on your list. Maybe you’re wondering what to buy Grandpa this year, or you'd like to find something “out of the box” and unexpected. If you’re looking for gift inspiration, Senior Services Expert Lori Williams has a shopping guide for the holiday season.

There are many solid options that are standard for elderly loved ones, such as self-care gifts. Cozy blankets, pajamas, robes, and slippers are usually a win. You can also monogram gifts to make them more personal. Also, consider aromatherapy like an essential oil diffuser for a safer alternative to candles. Try a nail salon gift card if you haven’t already and your loved one enjoys a fresh manicure.

You can also find cost-efficient gifts with utility. For example, the reacher grabber tools. This is great for picking things off the floor or reaching items that are higher up - and it helps keep your loved ones safe. Grip socks are another great way to keep your loved one safe from falls and keep their feet warm too. Also, gift certificates to places like Target or Walmart allow them flexibility to get what they need.

Activity-based gifts and experiences

Does your loved one enjoy something hands-on? Try branching out with an adult coloring book. If your loved one has expressed interest in learning how to craft (like crocheting), see if your local craft store offers classes. For active seniors, you could also consider a membership to a local senior center or a YMCA Silver Sneakers program, or give them a few yoga classes, to help them stay healthy. Another great idea is to take a little road trip to where they grew up or have memories - you may hear stories you’ve never heard before.

Finally, remember that gifts don’t have to be expensive; it’s the thought that counts. Think about what your loved one enjoys and you’re well on your way to brightening their holiday season.

Topics discussed:

- Gifts for grandparents

- Senior shopping guide

- Popular senior gifts

- Self-care gifts

- Experience gifts

- Classes and gift certificates

Takeaways from this episode:

-A smart speaker (“Alexa” or "Google Mini") is an enjoyable tool seniors can use to play music. They can also program it to use as a phone, so if they experience a fall, they can say, “Alexa, call 911” and receive help.

-Seniors tend to become cold, so the gift of warmth and coziness is usually a great one to give.

-Seniors’ skin can be a little more sensitive and become thinner and drier. Consider different ways to help them stay hydrated and moisturized.

-Gifts can be simple, such as a coffee and donuts date, or learning to bake cookies or decorate cakes together.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

016. The Power of Essential Oils and How They Can Help Seniors

https://www.loriwilliams-seniorservices.com/aging-in-style-podcast/episode/79e458a0/016-the-power-of-essential-oils-and-how-they-can-help-seniors

Senior Sneakers online membership:

https://tools.silversneakers.com/

To suggest a topic, be a guest or to support the podcast, please email [email protected]

For more senior resources and to sign up to the newsletter, please visit:

https://www.facebook.com/LoriWilliamsSeniorServices/

https://www.instagram.com/theloriwilliams/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/theloriwilliams/

https://loriwilliams-seniorservices.com/aging-in-style-podcast/

So you’ve decided you or your loved one needs senior living - how much is it going to cost? A 2020 study by Genworth determined that the U.S. average for assisted living is $4,429 a month, though it could be less (or even more) depending on where you live! Budget is a huge factor in determining what’s available to you. Unfortunately, there’s also a huge misconception that Medicare will cover the cost. That is simply not the case.

With that in mind, Senior Living Expert Lori Williams shares 10 ways to pay for senior living. Depending on how you’ve prepared over the years, there may be different options available that you never considered. Most people tap into social security, and if you have a pension plan, add that to your monthly income.

Savings are another way to pay, and you can consider savings in your 401(k) or other retirement funds as well.

Other means of payment: Do you own a house? Speak to a realtor - you may be able to sell without renovating your home. Are you a military veteran? VA benefits, like Aid & Attendance for war era veterans and spouses, can pay great rates. If you have Long term care insurance and qualify for care, it will cover Assisted Living & Memory Care. Family may also chip in to help, and there are life insurance policies to cash in, as well as bridge loans and reverse mortgages.

Nothing brings you back to reality like discussions about budget. However, there are many options. It’s also important to discuss finances with your loved ones, even if it’s an uncomfortable conversation, just so you’re prepared when the time comes.

Topics discussed:

-Senior living

-Paying for senior living

-Asset management

-Long-term care

-Medicare

-Insurance policies

-Selling your home

Takeaways from this episode:

-Medicare does not cover senior living. However, Medicare does pay for doctor’s visits, hospitalizations, rehab, hospice, and home health.

-Speak to a realtor to get a market analysis and discuss potential earnings if you were to sell your house.

-To prevent potential rejection, seek an elder law attorney’s help when completing the veteran’s benefits application.

-Purchase a long-term care policy when you’re younger. They can become cost-prohibitive if you wait until you’re older with health issues.

- It’s important to discuss your loved ones’ assets and preferences. That way, you can help respect their wishes if they need a new living arrangement.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

Listen to this episode before upgrading your house:

https://www.loriwilliams-seniorservices.com/aging-in-style-podcast/episode/4dda6ff7/070-seniors-beware-why-knowledge-is-power-especially-when-selling-your-home

Senior Living 101:

https://www.loriwilliams-seniorservices.com/aging-in-style-podcast/episode/2dd082bc/053-replay-senior-housing-101

5 benefits to moving to senior living community:

https://www.loriwilliams-seniorservices.com/post/5-benefits-of-moving-to-a-senior-living-community

To suggest a topic, be a guest or to support the podcast, please email [email protected]

For more senior resources and to sign up to the newsletter, please visit:

https://www.facebook.com/LoriWilliamsSeniorServices/

https://www.instagram.com/theloriwilliams/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/theloriwilliams/

https://loriwilliams-seniorservices.com/aging-in-style-podcast/

It’s estimated that Parkinson’s disease affects 1 million Americans. Ninety-six percent are diagnosed after age 50, and the incidence of disease increases with age. Since April is Parkinson’s Awareness Month, Senior Services Expert Lori Williams welcomes the CEO of the Parkinson’s Foundation, John Lehr.

John discusses:

- What Parkinson’s disease is + the symptoms

- The potential causes

- Treatment plans and the importance of a care partner

- Important resources for those with Parkinson’s

John draws from the wealth of knowledge from the Parkinson’s Foundation for a comprehensive, compassionate look at the disease. He echoes the purpose of the foundation: educating people with Parkinson’s as well as their care partners / families on what they can expect, and how to live as well as they possibly can.

Takeaways from this episode:

- Early symptoms of Parkinson’s affect movement, but other body systems are affected: cognition, mental health, GI, sleep, senses, and more. Everyone is impacted differently.

- Parkinson’s disease has unknown causes, but there’s a genetic and potential environmental component (such as exposure to napalm in the Vietnam War).

- Treatments for Parkinson’s include deep brain stimulation, dopamine replacement therapy, exercise, and trying new things to keep the brain active and create new circuitry.

- Outcomes for Parkinson’s are much improved when a care partner is involved and the patient takes medication regularly, exercises and tries new activities.

Topics discussed:

- Parkinson’s disease

- Symptoms of Parkinson’s

- The Parkinson’s Foundation

- Causes and treatment of Parkinson’s

- Parkinson’s tremors

- Dopamine / mental health

- Care partners

Resources mentioned in this episode:

Parkinson's Foundation:

https://www.parkinson.org

Parkinson's Toll number:

1 800 4PD INFO

Parkinson's Revolution initiative:

https://www.parkinson.org/get-involved/revolution

To suggest a topic, be a guest or to support the podcast please email [email protected]

For more senior resources and to sign up to the newsletter please visit:

https://www.facebook.com/LoriWilliamsSeniorServices/

https://www.instagram.com/theloriwilliams/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/theloriwilliams/

https://loriwilliams-seniorservices.com/aging-in-style-podcast/

So you’re home for the holidays and see signs of dementia or safety risks that could affect your loved one – what’s next?

If you notice any red flags, then it’s important to have a conversation with them and know what resources are available to you. Even if nothing bad has happened yet, the holidays are a great time while everyone’s together to discuss their wishes in case they need additional care.

The American Association of Retired People (AARP) did a study finding that 77% of Americans want to age in place at home. If this is the wish of your loved one, then it’s important to make their home safe. It’s important to consider fall prevention. Are their rugs bulging up? Are walkways cluttered? Do they have grab bars in the bathroom to prevent falls? Also consider an assistive device like a walker or cane if needed.

Medical alert devices are helpful in case of accidents and can come in bracelet or pendant form for your loved one to wear. However, technology can help: With a simple, “Alexa, call my son,” assistance is a call away.

Need a little extra help? Hourly home care and personal assistants can come help with medication, transportation, bathing, and more. However, the more you need them, the pricier they can be.

If staying at home isn’t an option, it’s important to know there are far more senior living options than just “nursing homes.”

-Active 55 and older communities: Great for if you don’t want to maintain a house or yard. They also offer socials, happy hours and more. These look like resorts.

- Independent / retirement / all-inclusive living: Communities where your rent includes 2 or 3 meals a day, transportation, housekeeping and more - perfect if you don’t want to cook.

- Assisted living: Everything included in independent living but with the addition of more personal care if you need extra help.

- Memory care: Good for advanced dementia and problems wandering. Memory care offers activities to help those with dementia feel more successful.

- Residential care homes: Located in regular neighborhoods and houses 6-8 residents on average. Great for people with dementia, mobility issues, or those who don’t prefer larger communities.

There’s much to discuss when you see your loved ones around the holidays. Be sure to bring it up in a loving, respectful way. If you sense they’re getting stressed when you bring up these topics, back down and let them know you want to honor their wishes in their remaining years.

Topics discussed:

Senior family members

Types of senior living communities

Signs of dementia / Alzheimer’s

Assistive devices

Fall prevention

Starting the conversation about senior care

Takeaways from this episode:

-It’s a gift when your family lets you know their wishes in case of emergencies. If they’re incapacitated or you’re in the dark about their financial situation, everything becomes much more stressful.

-The risk of falling rapidly increases for seniors over age 65. It’s important to look at your surroundings and assess, then minimize, risks.

-There are more resources than ever before for seniors to age in their own home. It’s critical to have the right tools and safeguards in place in case they need assistance, and to prevent falls and other accidents.

-In addition to staying physically safe, seniors should stay mentally and emotionally healthy through regular social outlets, whether that’s volunteering or visiting with their neighbors.

-“Nursing home” is not an umbrella term for all senior living communities. There are many different types that cater to different needs, and they’ve evolved far beyond the stereotype.

You may also like…

10 Warning Signs To Be Aware Of About Dementia:

https://www.loriwilliams-seniorservices.com/aging-in-style-podcast/episode/22e3ed63/112-10-warning-signs-to-be-aware-of-about-dementia

A Conversation About Fall Prevention:

https://www.loriwilliams-seniorservices.com/aging-in-style-podcast/episode/35adf41e/105-replay-a-conversation-about-fall-prevention

Getting Organized! Creating a Binder Of Essential Documents for Aging Parents:

https://www.loriwilliams-seniorservices.com/aging-in-style-podcast/episode/7907ae1f/039-getting-organized-creating-a-binder-of-essential-documents-for-aging-parents

 082. How technology (gadgets and tools) can keep seniors safe and independent for longer:

https://www.loriwilliams-seniorservices.com/aging-in-style-podcast/episode/c4732d3e/082-how-technology-gadgets-and-tools-can-keep-seniors-safe-and-independent-longer

To suggest a topic, be a guest or to support the podcast, please email [email protected]

For more senior resources and to sign up to the newsletter, please visit:

https://www.facebook.com/LoriWilliamsSeniorServices/

https://www.instagram.com/theloriwilliams/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/theloriwilliams/

https://loriwilliams-seniorservices.com/aging-in-style-podcast/

The holidays will be here before you know it, and soon you may be visiting family members you haven’t seen in a while. When spending time with aging loved ones, it’s important to keep your eye out for changes in behavior since the last time you visited. These could be signs of dementia.

When it comes to dementia and Alzheimer’s, the more informed you are, the better support your family will receive. Senior Program Manager Megan Rowe from the Alzheimer’s Association for Dallas and Northeast Texas is here to explain the warning signs and provide tips for helping your loved ones.

First, understand the greatest risk factor for dementia is age, but it’s not a normal part of aging. You may think of memory loss when it comes to dementia – however, it could impact mood, daily routines, sociability, spatial awareness, balance, problem-solving, and even finances. In fact, financial fraud and exploitation can be an unwanted outcome for those with dementia, making it all the more critical to check on your loved ones.

When forgetfulness is involved, those with dementia tend to forget recently learned information, as well as important dates and events (like anniversaries). It’s more severe than forgetting where you parked, it’s being unable to even retrace your footsteps to find your way to your car. Forgetfulness can even become dangerous when your loved ones rely on daily medications.

Early detection is important, so be aware of the signs. That way, your loved one could even become involved in their own future planning and treatment. Ask yourself:

- Is your loved one no longer doing something they used to love? For instance, maybe they no longer cook or go to church though they always used to.

- Has their routine changed? Maybe they’re no longer caring for their hygiene or cleaning their house.

- Do they tend to stay home and isolate themselves?

- Are the bills getting paid?

- How is their balance and spatial awareness?

- Are they showing signs of anxiety, anger, or paranoia?

If your loved one is exhibiting signs of dementia, it’s important to identify a cause / type of dementia, as well as consider further treatment by a specialist. Keep in mind that staying social is also beneficial for living with dementia, not just for your loved one, but for all involved. Support systems are vital; plus, outcomes improve when loved ones stay social and active.

Topics discussed:

Dementia

Alzheimer’s disease

Signs of dementia / Alzheimer’s

How to help loved ones with signs of dementia

Home for the holidays

Treatment / support for dementia

Wandering

Financial exploitation of seniors

Power of attorney

Takeaways from this episode:

-For one person with dementia, it takes two and a half people to care for them. It’s important to have a support network because no one can handle it all alone.

-Sometimes other issues can mimic dementia symptoms, so be sure to rule out medication interactions, urinary tract infections, and more.

-Understand loved ones may be “covering” for each other. For instance, a spouse may try to cover up the signs of their partner’s dementia so people won’t worry.

-A person with dementia may have a fear of others finding out and distance themselves from their social groups and former routines. However, having a social life improves their quality of life and outcomes.

-One sign of dementia is having issues with visual and spatial relationships. Maybe it’s difficult to judge the distance of a car, or black-and-white tile may appear like holes in the ground.

-Go to alz.org for an appointment checklist for your doctor when determining the dementia diagnosis and treatment plan.

Resources discussed in this episode:

Visit the caregiver center online, with free e-learning, support groups, and education:alz.org

Call the 24/7 Alzheimer’s Association helpline:800-272-3900

What you need to know ahead of a doctor's visit, or when a dementia diagnosis may be imminent:

https://www.alz.org/alzheimers-dementia/diagnosis/visiting-your-doctor

To suggest a topic, be a guest or to support the podcast, please email [email protected] For more senior resources and to sign up to the newsletter, please visit:https://www.facebook.com/LoriWilliamsSeniorServices/https://www.instagram.com/theloriwilliams/https://www.linkedin.com/in/theloriwilliams/https://loriwilliams-seniorservices.com/aging-in-style-podcast/

What’s it like working as a hairdresser at a senior living community? Margo Brooks would tell you it’s been the best 9 years of her life, full of nonstop laughs, fun and fulfillment. Not only does she cut and style hair for senior men and women, but she uses her beauty school training for grooming and applying makeup to help seniors feel their best.

Margo tells Seniors Living Expert Lori Williams how she started working at the onsite senior living salon and the joys of the job. She’ll also discuss the seniors that inspire her and how (in the words of one of her clients) feeling good is “better than medicine.”

Topics discussed:- Life at senior living and memory care communities- Cutting hair for memory care patients- Caring for loved ones with dementia- Beauty and grooming for seniors- Hairstyling and makeup for funerals

Takeaways from this episode:- Hair appointments give seniors something to look forward to if they’re lonely or in need of self-care. They often share information with hairdressers they wouldn’t tell anyone else.- Seniors feel better if they look better. It’s been said, “When I come in here, it's better than medicine.”- Seniors with memory issues often love getting their hair done just as much as anybody else, but one important tip is to take a slower approach, be patient with them, and explain what you’re doing each step of the way.- One service some hairdressers perform is styling hair or applying makeup for the funeral of the deceased. This is a gift to family and to honor their loved one by ensuring they look like they did in life.

To connect with Margo Brooks:https://www.facebook.com/Margo-Brooks-Salon-LLC-538011076225312/?__xts__[0]=68.ARCZdUVW5H321uPN_otyZPnBJg9CRvI23BTWbHpFgyEsTlLYsQfbbaJ6v-ruwTdh3j4S2fcK1VaTFCIAeCXsNzC5VWR9921bir1o8xpDOzroMinXxWVB0tT2G7qESJJrLRcMzD4sNTnDbArbxjsuS61qpTKB0cttA4-znOchVkui0xqPeVP99ORefL_vCK4e-TA2XN1fOQ-wyVbpu419GXjohOoR-TevCYCObkwxdPfoB69-eivkpIeiMhTnAEqEVFFRR3ikv5MBYBwyvf_k69ASYU5AS34YbaaCPeY0xnafnsYcbbL06-6-yI6fy0l_dBVysWt4q7Q4G3TqcclczHxIL7vc

To suggest a topic, be a guest or to support the podcast please email [email protected] For more senior resources and to sign up to the newsletter please visit:https://www.facebook.com/LoriWilliamsSeniorServices/https://www.instagram.com/theloriwilliams/https://www.linkedin.com/in/theloriwilliams/https://loriwilliams-seniorservices.com/aging-in-style-podcast/

Imagine riding a bike from Alaska to Panama. Now imagine performing this grueling feat as an 80-year-old! Such a trek is not for the faint of heart, but adventure cyclist Bob Fletcher proves that it can be done with the right mindset, regardless of age. His goal is to break the existing world record for the longest journey on a motorized bicycle – and break existing stereotypes about seniors.

With his motorized bike or “eBike,” Bob rides with chargeable batteries that can provide a 50% boost in power when needed. This makes it easier to bike mountains and other types of rugged terrain on his journey. He often begins biking at 8:30 or 9 a.m. and continue until sometime between 5 and 7 p.m. Typically, he bikes during the week and enjoys rest days at Airbnbs, while meeting people and enjoying local communities along the way.

Bob also bikes for a cause: He’s raising money for Christmas presents for children in Panama, just in time for his December arrival at his final destination. That is, until he starts back up again to bike down South America!

Bob Fletcher is living proof that anyone can get out of their comfort zone and try new things. If you believe you can do something, you can, whether you’re 30 years old or 80 years old.

Topics discussed:- Bike riding- Electric bikes- Staying active as we age- Active seniors- Inspirational seniors- Mindset- Finding purpose as we age- Cycling over 80

Takeaways from this episode:- You can do whatever you set your mind to. If you believe you can’t do anything in your older age, you’ll prove yourself right.- Seniors can do anything: They can get involved, they can learn something new, and they can get out of their comfort zone and perform incredible feats.- The current record for the longest journey made on a motorbike is 8,400 kilometers – and Bob, at age 80 is on kilometer 9,000 right now, with only 2,000 more to go.- Electric bikes are popular in Europe, but it’s a great way to travel with a boost. You can activate a battery to get assistance on hills, then charge up the batteries at nighttime.

Resources mentioned:Follow and support Bob’s journey at https://octoodyssey.com/

https://www.instagram.com/octoodyssey/

Inspiring women over 50 to skydive from airplanes: 032. Living Life to the Fullest: Meet the Founder of Aging but Dangerous!

https://www.loriwilliams-seniorservices.com/aging-in-style-podcast/episode/791c9cb7/032-living-life-to-the-fullest-meet-the-founder-of-aging-but-dangerous

060. 96 Years Young, World War II Vet, the MOST Inspirational Senior

https://www.loriwilliams-seniorservices.com/aging-in-style-podcast/episode/57a002ea/060-96-years-young-world-war-ii-vet-the-most-inspirational-senior-i-know-meet-doug-brown

To suggest a topic, be a guest or to support the podcast, please email [email protected] For more senior resources and to sign up to the newsletter, please visit:https://www.facebook.com/LoriWilliamsSeniorServices/https://www.instagram.com/theloriwilliams/https://www.linkedin.com/in/theloriwilliams/https://loriwilliams-seniorservices.com/aging-in-style-podcast/

Topics discussed:

Takeaways from this episode:

Resources mentioned in this episode:

“Does Medicare cover assisted living?” is a common question Lori Williams gets as a senior living professional. Since Medicare functions as health insurance and doesn’t cover senior living, she welcomes an expert back to the show to share what it does cover.

You’ll get a simple overview of the Medicare puzzle from June Kim, a community relations specialist with BlueCross BlueShield of Texas. With Medicare enrollment October 15 through December 7, it’s a great time to learn - though it’s always helpful to understand what you’re getting into! She’ll answer common questions like:

·What is Medicare Part A, B, C and D?

· What’s a Medicare supplement? What about Medicare Advantage?

· I’m still employed - should I enroll in Medicare?

· How much does it cost?

· Where do I enroll?

If you need to learn the basics of Medicare or just need a refresher, this is a great place to start. Plus, you’ll also be aware of what changes are coming.

Takeaways from this episode:

-Enroll for Medicare Part A (hospital insurance) once you turn 65 - even if you’re still employed. You’ve already paid into it, so it’s free.

-Only enroll in Part B when you’re fully retired because your employer may already offer health insurance coverage.

-You can’t be on Medicare Part A and B (traditional Medicare) without a drug plan - Part D.

-Medicare covers 80% of the costs, and you’ll have to pay the last 20% out of pocket unless you have Medicare Supplement insurance.

-Medicare Part C is an “all in one” plan run by private insurance companies. You wouldn’t get Part A, B or D if you already have Medicare Advantage, nor could you get a supplement.

-You must be reasonably healthy to qualify for a Medicare supplement, and costs vary according to lifestyle. The older you get, the more expensive it is.

-Medicare Part C is like an HMO health insurance plan; whereas Medicare A and B are like a PPO.

- If you have Medicare Part A, B and D, and supplement insurance, you can use your Medicare in all 50 states - any doctor and any hospital that takes Medicare, with little to no out-of-pocket expenses.

-Choosing the plan for you comes down to many factors including network and resources. What’s most important is that you understand the plan you choose.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

Medicare details about enrollment for 2023:

*Note: Part B premiums may increase

Open enrollment period is 10/15/22 - 12/7/22

New Plan is effective on 1/1/23

12. Medicare 101

https://www.loriwilliams-seniorservices.com/aging-in-style-podcast/episode/794eb1c8/012-medicare-101

For more information about plans and the brochure mentioned in this episode, please visit:

www.Thinkbluetx.com

https://static.wixstatic.com/media/2c62c2_5fdf7b18b96d45639040f7972bf54fc8~mv2.jpeg

https://static.wixstatic.com/media/2c62c2_ea7e019a7a9a4becae1d3bbbe025e9a2~mv2.jpeg

To contact June Kim:

[email protected]

214-783- 7901

For more detailed and up to date information please go to:

www.medicare.gov

Or call at 1-800-633-4227; available 24/7

And for social security:

www.ssa.gov

Enroll for Medicare with Social Security: 1-800-772-1213, Monday through Friday 7 a.m. - 7 p.m.

To suggest a topic, be a guest or to support the podcast please email [email protected]

For more senior resources and to sign up to the newsletter please visit:

https://www.facebook.com/LoriWilliamsSeniorServices/

https://www.instagram.com/theloriwilliams/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/theloriwilliams/

https://loriwilliams-seniorservices.com/aging-in-style-podcast/

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Topics discussed:

-Navigating Medicare

-Medicare Advantage

-Medicare supplement insurance

-Choosing the right Medicare plan

-Medicare FAQs

-Medicare enrollment