50+ Club 02.18.2022 by Brentwood Press & Publishing

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50Club

FEBRUARY18, 2022

Your Guide to Living Well

Cherished Moments Discovery Bay man goes digital to preserve memories

A Healthier Mouth How seniors can maintain a bright and confident smile

Reading is Timeless Five popular books for brain nourishment and fun

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FEBRUARY 18, 2022

Who in their right mind would take out a Reverse Mortgage?

or an answer, go to my website and click on the “widget”, input your zip code and you will see how many of your neighbors have

taken out a reverse mortgage. You will be surprised, I guarantee it. A few examples of zip codes: (numbers include a 10 mile radius) Walnut Creek, 94596: 2,013 of your neighbors have reverse mortgages, and 316 took them out in the last 12 months. Brentwood, 94513: 1,101 neighbors have one and

192 of those took out the loan in the last 12 months Los Altos, 94023: 1,369 homes have one and 103 borrowed in the last 12 months Atherton, 94027: 1,372 have one and 105 took it out in last 12 months. San Jose, 95122: 2,155 homes have an RM and of those 2149 borrowed in last 12 months. Oakland/Fruitvale, 94601: 2,885 of your neighbors have a reverse and 374 made that decision in the last 12 months. Oakland/Montclair, 94611: 3,260 neighbors have RMs and 421 took them out in the past 12 months. San Francisco/Sunset district: 1,626 neighbors have RMs and 127 took them out in last 12 months. Okay, enough data. I love data. I could look at numbers and graphs and analysis’ all day long. As Baby Boomers move into retirement the reverse mortgage program is becoming more popular than ever. People are looking to a reverse mortgage to: ♦ Eliminate their monthly mortgage payment thereby increasing monthly cash flow ♦ To set up a monthly income stream to supplement pensions and/or social security ♦ To set up a line of credit for emergencies or future fun plans ♦ To take out a lump sum for a remodel or to purchase a second home. And, honestly, it is most often a combination of several of these payment plans. Some are even getting creative by using the reverse mortgage program as an alternative to long term care insurance. The FHA insured reverse mortgage line of credit provides a growth feature. What that means is that the unused portion of the line of credit will increase over time. This growth feature is not tied to the value of your home. The line of credit will grow even if the value of your home declines. That increasing line of credit can be used later in life when care may become necessary. Baby Boomers are not the only ones recognizing the benefits of the reverse mortgage program. Seniors of all ages are realizing that the old 4% rule isn’t all it was cracked up to be when they worked with their financial planners to set up their retirement plan 15-20 years ago. It just hasn’t kept up with the times. From inflation, to longevity, to health care costs, to people’s desires to continue to be active and “do things” – times have changed. The 4% rule is extremely outdated, and people are looking for alternatives. A Reverse Mortgage is an alternative! As you can see from the zip code examples above it does not matter where you live, your friends and neighbors are doing reverse mortgages. (That could account for the long hours we are working and the new hires I have

had to bring on to make sure we can take good care of our clients.) Financial planners have always held the equity in one’s home as sacred dollars, never to be touched. They do not feel that it is a part of the “bucket of money” available to you during your lifetime. Studies show that, for many seniors, home equity accounts for 80% of their total net worth. That amount of money can no longer be set aside on the mantle to admire. That is a luxury we can no longer afford, nor do we want to. It is the fruits of a lifetime of hard work and yours to enjoy. Even though every client has a unique life story, there are common threads to the people I meet. A change in circumstance, a life altering event, or just the fact that retirement sneaks up on all of us. “I didn’t expect to still be here.” I hear this every day from my older clients. Longevity is obviously a good thing. Clearly, we would like to live longer if we are healthy and are of sound mind, BUT what if the money doesn’t last as long as our bodies last? There have been several studies done by the financial planning community that show the use of a reverse mortgage can extend the life of your retirement assets. Check out a couple of articles, one by Barry H. Sacks, J.D., Ph.D. and Stephen R. Sacks, Ph.D. titled “Reversing the Conventional Wisdom: Using Home Equity to Supplement Retirement Income” or another by Wade Pfau titled Incorporating Home Equity into a Retirement Income Strategy. Both are very informative. If you don’t have access to a computer, give us a call, we are happy to send one out to you. “I can’t retire. I am going to have to work until I die.” This is another one I hear very often, especially

from younger clients. Baby boomers are coming into retirement with large mortgages and high credit card debt. The cost to buy a home has increased so much in the last 30 years that it has become very difficult to pay off a mortgage by the time we reach retirement age. The low cost of mortgage money over the last 15 years has encouraged refinancing and when refinancing borrowers are often told “now is the time to take cash out” to pay off debt or do home improvements. It all sounded so good, and it was so easy at the time. Now, at 62, people are looking at having to continue to work to service very high debt loads. A reverse mortgage may provide a means to stay in the family home and have renewed financial security. “I lost my spouse’s income, and I can no longer afford to keep up on my bills.” This one always

breaks my heart. It seems that it was always in their minds that it could happen, but a plan was never put in place because it was just too painful to talk about the possibility out loud. Now one spouse is left making very difficult decisions based on significantly reduced cash flow. A reverse mortgage may be a great tool to supplement reduced retirement income and remain in the home where you made so many memories.

Beth Miller-Rowe has been in the mortgage industry for 38 years specializing in reverse mortgages for the past 12 years. Beth has degrees in economics and business administration. friend just plain doesn’t know why they think it is bad, they just “heard” that somewhere. The words I love to hear are “I want to find out, for myself, what the truth is and make my own decision”. The truth about reverse mortgages is that they are a great tool for many people, and they don’t work for others. The only way to know is to educate yourself. Let’s sit down and chat. Our job is to explain the program, the process, and the costs. We will provide you with all the information to read, discuss, and decide. No pressure, ever. If you decide it is right for you, great, if not, that is okay too. You will have made an educated decision. – Advertorial

Let’s take a look and see if we can Make Your Retirement Dreams Come True.

Beth Miller-Rowe NMLS: 294774

Branch Manager and Reverse Mortgage Specialist

The Reverse Mortgage Group • A Division of American Pacific Mortgage Corp.

Office: 925-969-0380 Cell: 925-381-8264 Beth@YourReverse.com

3478 Buskirk Ave., Ste. 1000 Pleasant Hill, CA 94523

And those reasons don’t even begin to address all the Covid related issues: Loss of job, loss of loved

one, loss of business. There has been so much loss in the last two years, it could cause a severe episode of depression if we spent too much time thinking about it but it is real and we work with people every day who have been impacted by it. They are trying to put their world back together and we can often help them. The key to deciding if a reverse mortgage is right for you, is doing the research yourself. I hear… “my friend said a reverse mortgage is bad”. When I ask why they think it is bad it is either due to a myth, or the

Your Retirement Dreams Can Come True! A Division of American Pacific Mortgage Corporation NMLS 1850

DRE: 00950759/01215943 • NMLS: 294774/831612/1850 Licensed by the Dept of Business Oversight under the California Residential Mortgage Lending Act

*Reverse mortgages are loans offered to homeowners who are 62 or older who have equity in their homes. The loan programs allow borrowers to defer payment on the loans until they pass away, sell the home, or move out. Homeowners, however, remain responsible for the payment of taxes, insurance, maintenance, and other items. Nonpayment of these items can lead to a default under the loan terms and ultimate loss of the home. FHA insured reverse mortgages have an up front and ongoing cost; ask your loan officer for details. These materials are not from, nor approved by HUD, FHA, or any governing agency. **American Pacific Mortgage Corporation is not financial service company or licensed tax advisors; the material provided is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be construed as investment, tax and/or mortgage advice. Although the material is deemed to be accurate and reliable, there is no guarantee it is without errors. We are not financial or tax advisors, please contact your financial professional for your personal financial situation.

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FEBRUARY 18, 2021

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Super Bowl Sunday for a 70-year-old fan L AST SUNDAY WAS THE BIGGEST DAY OF THE SEASON IN FOOTBALL: a day of television, snacks and the choices of watching at home, at a party with friends and family or at a sports bar somewhere in your neighborhood. So, let’s break it all down from Senior a 70-year old’s perspective. Over the orner span of my football-liking years, which started when I met Grandpa 40 years ago, I’ve probably been at dozens of sports bars, where we’d watch either some regular- season games, playoffs or the Super Bowl while avoiding any cooking and serving. It sure has those plusses. Before Marla Grandpa’s hearing aids and my lower Luckhardt noise level tolerance we’d be right up in there, screaming for our team if they were playing or just enthusiastically nodding for the best of the two that made it to the Super Bowl that day.

I usually just picked the team whose moms showed up in the stands or the team with the nicest jerseys. It was a true tossup for me. I enjoyed the crowd and the celebration of one of America’s most fun afternoons. The food wasn’t half bad either! Choice no. 2 was either our house, a friend’s or another venue where everybody knew your name, as in the television show Cheers. The parties were usually potluck and BYOB and everyone who wanted to actually watch the game could sit comfortably in front of the television set while others mingled, munched and sipped. More of a party than just a sporting event, the theme provoked football-shaped cakes or appetizers made of meats and cheeses set up in the shape of a football field. My creativity in the kitchen is limited for decorating so I usually brought something simple like a huge salad with lots of stuff in it and called it “Niner Salad.” I tried. With the game on very loud to overpower the increasingly louder conversations to overpower the television, by the time we got home we tried not to yell ‘good night’ to each other. Lots of fun for younger ears. Option no. 3 is hanging out on the couch with Grandpa watching the game. If it’s one of my preferred teams I’m just

about glued to the screen making a few comments here and there at the players. I try to yell positive things at them so I don’t appear to offend the other side, hoping silently that my favorites kick some butt! The commercials are a must for me. Some of the most creative, poignant, funny or just plain clever ads are saved for this day when the audience is big enough to warrant the enormous price tag for 30 seconds of airtime. I hate to miss one so I try to save my food and bathroom breaks for the commentary parts. I know the basics of the game so I feel confident leaving the room at that time. Lookout Cris Collinsworth, I may be able to take your job someday! I suppose the older I get, the more I am comfortable with choice number 3. If I miss a play I can scroll back on the TV or if I don’t care for some of the halftime show I can start making dinner or just tune out. Although I am not a big fan of rap music, I respect the craft but prefer other years of the halftime see Super Bowl page 10B

Keep smiling: ways to maintain dental health JAKE MENEZ

“

the teeth of a 25-year-old,”

experts say. Although it is easy to dismiss the

viduals are not much different from those of

said Dr. Craig Chlebicki

image of an older person with dentures as a

others, experts say. Brushing twice a day with a

stereotype, there is some truth to it. Nearly

soft-bristle toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste

20% of Americans age 65 or older have lost

as well as flossing and rinsing are still recom-

according to the National Institute on Aging, a division of the National Institutes of Health dedicated to extending “the healthy, active years of life,” according to the NIA website. Much like anyone else, older adults should replace their toothbrush every 3-4 months to maintain effectiveness when brushing and not

all of their teeth, according to the Centers for

mended, as are regular dental check-ups,

see Dental page 10B

’ve seen 90-year-olds with

of BrentCourt Dental Group in Brentwood.

While proper dental care is important at all stages of life, a mouth’s needs may differ as the body ages and its own needs change,

Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the leading cause of this is poor dental health. General dental practices for older indi-

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FEBRUARY 18, 2022

Yes!

You’ve worked hard to get here. It’s time to enjoy it! Nestled on 34 park-like acres, O’Connor Woods is a gated neighborhood that provides exceptional senior living at an affordable rate. We are San Joaquin County’s only Life Plan Community! Plan your visit today! Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care and Skilled Nursing 3400 Wagner Heights Road | Stockton, CA 95209 209-414-3601 | oconnorwoods.org License #390314809 • COA #283 • Equal Housing Opportunity

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Seniors might enjoy these five books K A I T LY N G L E E S O N

t doesn’t matter how many years you’ve seen or how many generations come after yours:

reading is timeless. The ideas of adventure, freedom, new experiences, exciting love, and others discoverable in stories are desirable even as bones age and joints become stiff. With this in mind, here are recommended stories to satisfy historical, comedic, romantic, or somber interests in literature: ♦ The Little Old Lady Who Broke All the Rules - It is never too late to try new things: going to college in your 50s, having children in your 40s, or even beginning your career as a notorious criminal in your 70s. In a delightful story that bridges Ocean’s Eleven and Thursday night bingo, The Little Old Lady Who Broke All the Rules draws the reader in as it fol-

lows the story of a group of retirees who want a better life and better treatment and decide to take things into their own hands. ♦ Water for Elephants - In a throwback to the 1930s, Water for Elephants shares a timeless love story that takes place in the colorful, yet twisted, world of a dying circus in the Depression era. Jacob Jankowski, an elderly gentleman in his 90s, lives in a nursing home and hates every second of it. To spice up the life he lives, he recalls his memories of a forbidden love and shocking secret from his time in the circus. Water for Elephants is an entrapping story that connects with escapist desires for freedom and listlessness deep within a reader’s heart. ♦ A Man Called Ove - Sometimes you meet someone and the vibe is not there. However, sometimes, the first impression is the worst impression, and it takes time to realize that not everyone is as you first understood them to be. This

couldn’t be more true in the comical, and yet heartfelt, story A Man Called Ove. Centered on 59-year-old Ove, an elderly man who believes technology has taken it too far with its keyboardless computers and rear cameras on cars, A Man Called Ove takes the reader on a journey of love and loss as both them and the community in the story learn to love someone who, at first glance, does not deserve the affection. ♦ The Tattooist of Auschwitz - Based on a true story, the biographical Tattooist of Auschwitz follows Lale, a young Slovakian-Jewish man who was forced to tattoo identification numbers on his own people in the deadliest concentration camp of World War

II. Using his intellect and his education, Lale used his position to smuggle goods and save lives of prisoners during the Holocaust. ♦ I’m Too Young to be 70 - Making it to your seventies is like finishing a marathon - an amazing accomplishment but now you’re really, really tired. I’m Too Young to be 70 by Judith Viorst poetically covers the niche feelings of having an aged body and a young heart. From healthcare, retirement, and family, to the ways sexuality plays out with age, I’m Too Young to be 70 is a collection of poems that reaches for the heart of the reader and embraces the liveliness of life even in someone’s later years.

Remember these? Want to enjoy them again? JUST CALL US! All Audio & Video Formats Converted/Digitized

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FEBRUARY 18, 2022

Coming to Walnut Creek

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FEBRUARY 18, 2022

Enjoy senior discounts on recreational activities

espite the efforts of Juan Ponce de Leon, there is no magical Fountain of Youth.

Getting older is inevitable, and it is important to see the silver lining of aging. Among the various perks that come with age, including increased knowledge and experience, are a whole host of discounts for the aging population. Men and women who have reached a certain age can get discounts if they know where to look. The ages at which discounts are available vary. Auto insurance companies may provide a senior discount to drivers who are over 50. Certain restaurants offer these discounts for those over the age of 55. Retailers may begin offering discounts to customers who are over the age of 60. Many discounts can be used for recreational activities.

Dining out:

Why pay full price for a meal if you don’t have to? A meal out with friends and loved ones becomes a bit more affordable thanks to the senior discounts available through many different restaurants, whether it’s chains or independently owned eateries.

Hotels:

Seniors booking their stays through select hotel chains may be eligible to reduce their costs by 10 percent or more. When making the reservation, check to see if you qualify for an age-related discount. Some may be affiliated with memberships in organizations like AARP.

Theme parks:

Before buying entry tickets or season passes, check with the membership office regarding senior discounts. Certain items also may be discounted throughout the parks.

Movies:

Movie theaters may offer special viewing days or times that are discounted.

Flights/cruises:

Discounted senior fares are available on select flights for Delta Airlines and American Airlines. British Airways offers up to $200 off flights and packages when booked online through British Airways’ AARP page. Seniors can enjoy discounts on select cruises through Carnival. Rental car companies also offer discounts for senior customers. – Courtesy of Metro Creative

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WHEN SHOULD YOU REVIEW YOUR ESTATE PLAN?

by Joan Grimes, Esq.

Clients often ask how often they should review and update their estate planning documents. The American Bar Association Commission on Law and Aging recommends a review of your Advance Health Care Directives upon the occurrence of any of the “5 D Events”. However, the “5 D Events” are also a good time to review your estate planning documents. These are the “5 D Events”: DEATH - Has there been a DEATH of a family member or friend? Did you provide for this family member or friend in your estate planning documents? Did you appoint them as an agent under your Advance Health Care Directive or Financial Power of Attorney? DIVORCE – Are you getting DIVORCED? If you are getting divorced, you should review your estate planning documents with an attorney. They are some restrictions that limit your ability to change your estate planning documents while you are getting divorced. DIAGNOSIS - Have you received a new DIAGNOSIS? If so, you may want to update your Advance

Health Care Directive to specify any new wishes. DECLINE - Are you experiencing a significant DECLINE in health? If so, you should meet with your estate planning attorney and agents to discuss your wishes and review your documents. DECADE - Have you reached a new DECADE? This is a good time to review your documents to make sure they still reflect your wishes. You should review all of your estate planning documents, including your Revocable Living Trust, Advance Health Care Directives and Financial Power of Attorneys upon the occurrence of any of the 5 D’s. If you do not have an estate plan or would like to discuss changes to your existing estate plan, our office offers free 30 minute consultation available by phone or Zoom. Putting your affairs in order is a gift you give yourself and your family. If you would like to make an appointment, please call (925) 939-1680.

This article provides only general legal information, and not specific legal advice. Information contained is not a substitute for a personal consultation with an attorney. LAW OFFICE OF JOAN GRIMES, PHONE (925) 939-1680 1600 S. MAIN STREET, SUITE 100, WALNUT CREEK, CA © 2021 Joan Grimes

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LIVING 50+

FEBRUARY 18, 2022

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Make the most of your memories – digitally videos, photos and audio

content and bringing them into the 21st century.

Photo courtesy of Skip Zehnder

Skip Zehnder converts all types of digital media to preserve memories forever.

Travel is Back! Vera Martinez Se Habla Español

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D MEDAL OL RD

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Locally owned and operated by Discovery Bay resident Skip Zehnder, Zehnder Enterprises can help preserve your most precious memories. “I do all types of audio and video conversions,” Zehnder said. “If you have LPs or 45s, cassettes or eight tracks, I can convert them to digital media. I can convert any type of media.” For 22 years, Zehnder has been updating his clients’ media. His services include free pickup and delivery, and he returns the original materials. He said there isn’t a type of media he won’t work with. “I just added 16mm sound to the things I digitize, and that was the only one I wasn’t doing,” he said. “Pretty much any audio or video that people have in their homes or in their recordings, we can do. We can put it on a CD, DVD or some drives.”

the business of taking old

ehnder Enterprises is in

Mary McCord of Brentwood said she has used Zehnder’s services several times to update old home movies of her grandchildren. She said she appreciates Zehnder’s personal, punctual service and has recommended him to friends. “I feel like his ability – because I used to transfer all the videos I had onto the VHS tapes so I knew something about the transferring process – is good, and he just seems to be very good technically at what he does,” McCord said. “He’s a wonderful man. He has helped me put all my things on a drive so I can put it in the slot on my TV and it just comes across the TV.” McCord noted that Zehnder’s prices were lower than other companies she called, and she likes that he lives in the area. She said his attention to detail – he labels everything meticulously – was another bonus. Zehnder said he enjoys the work he does and appreciates the relationships he forms with clients like McCord. “Going through all their weddings and births and stuff, I get to know my clients very well,” he said. “It’s an honor, and I enjoy it.” For more information on Zehnder Enterprises, call 925-236-0438 or visit www.audiovideoconversions.com.

2021

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FEBRUARY 18, 2021

Super Bowl from page 3B performances. Some of it was amazing but this year I’d have personally preferred some other songs or perhaps a request to bring back those delightfully entertaining Frisbee dogs. Like everything else, it’s just a matter of taste and we can all agree to disagree amicably. No matter how you chose to spend your

Dental from page 3B

HOPE HOSPICE Supporting East Bay Families Since 1980

Hospice Care | Grief Support Dementia Education Family Caregiver Resources Volunteering Opportunities

neglect their gum line when brushing. Although the broad strokes of dental care are largely the same regardless of age, older adults may face considerations specific to their age group. One is dry mouth, according to Chlebicki. Older people are more likely to use prescription and over-the-counter drugs, many of which have dry mouth as a side effect. Dry mouth is a reduction of the amount of saliva produced by the mouth and can lead to increased risk of cavities and other forms of tooth decay. The NIA suggests combating dry mouth by sipping water throughout the day or chewing sugarless gum to stimulate salivary glands as well as avoiding spicy foods or smoking. In addition to side effects of medication, pre-existing conditions, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and arthritis, can also hinder a person’s ability to care for their mouth properly, according to the CDC website. The organization cites a 2018 research study that asserted those with pre-existing conditions are less likely to schedule regular dental visits, an important preventive measure for catching oral health issues early.

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10B

Super Bowl Sunday, I hope it was fun and that your team did well. Grandpa and I enjoyed the hoopla comfortably under our woobie blankets on the couch. Stay safe and well. Marla Luckhardt is a Brentwood resident who works with several local senior care and advocacy groups. Reach her at marla2054@aol.com. The NIA acknowledges that people with arthritis or similar conditions that limit hand motion may experience problems with dental care. The organization recommends using an electric toothbrush for those who may lack the mobility to brush in small circles while they recommend purchasing a toothbrush with a larger handle for those who struggle with gripping. Ultimately, the most important tool seniors have for maintaining proper dental health is simply practicing good hygiene and regularly scheduling dental appointments. “When caught early, small things are easy to fix,” said Chlebicki about preventive care. “It’s when people go five years without visiting a dentist that things become harder to manage.” More information on how aging impacts oral health, as well as tips for hygienic habits, can be found on the NIA website at www.nia.nih.gov/health/ taking-care-your-teeth-and-mouth Brentcourt Dental Group is located at 1140 Second St., Suite A, in Brentwood. For more information, call 925-634-3503 or visit www.brentcourtdentalgroup.com.

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11B

Elder Law and Estate Planning

LAW OFFICE OF

ANNE HYDORN

Trust. Compassion. Integrity. Kindness.

Local centers offer support to familial caregivers K A I T LY N G L E E S O N

t takes a lot of time and effort to care for someone in need. This is especially true when it comes to

being a caregiver for a person suffering from dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Despite the difficulties a caregiver must overcome, however, they can be comforted knowing they do not have to do so alone. The Family Caregiver Alliance (FCA) offers a community and support system to offer aid and comfort to caregivers, both young and old. The alliance, which serves the

Bay Area, offers educational and emotional support to familial caregivers. In addition to classes, tools and workshops in English, FCA offers many of the same resources in Spanish. The FCA knows that one of the hardest parts of being a caregiver is the feeling that they must provide everything, so it offers people the opportunity to find community, comfort and support. A second, similar organization is the California Caregiver Resource Centers (CRC). Available in multiple languages and for free, the CRC provides resources of support for family caregivers of individuals that are “affected by chronic and debilitating health conditions including dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, cerebrovascular diseases… degenerative diseases,” and others, according to their profile on the City of Brentwood website.

elping families and seniors plan for a secure future and peace of mind. See information about my upcoming FREE workshops on estate planing by visiting me online.

Legal Services • Wills & Living Trusts • Advance Health Care Directives • Financial Powers of Attorney

• MediCal & Long-Term Care Planning • Trust Administration

ANNE HYDORN

(925) 391-8630 8330 Brentwood Blvd., Suite B Serving All of East Contra Costa County

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Mothers spend 18 years or more devoted to their children, and often their identities are defined as ‘Mom’ above all else. As a result, it can be difficult to think ahead to life without kids in the home, especially when children are toddlers or school-aged. But children will someday grow up and move out, and the emotions that resonate when that day comes can be overwhelming. Many parents feel a sense of sadness and loss when their last child leaves the family home. Referred to as ‘empty nest syndrome,’ these feelings are not officially labeled as a clinical mental health problem, but they are very real for many people. While parents encourage their children to become independent and branch out in their own lives, not every parent can cope with an empty nest. The parenting and family resource VerywellFamily.com states that mothers with empty nest syndrome experience a deep void in their lives that often makes them feel a little lost. Moms who are feeling the pangs of sadness due to an empty nest can employ some strategies to alleviate these feelings.

♦ Keep friends close. Use this opportunity to spend more time with close friends and put yourself first. Schedule all of those activities you may have temporarily put on hold while caring for children through the years. ♦ Make time for travel. New experiences can broaden anyone’s horizons. Travel as a couple or with a group of friends. Put the focus on fun and then share the experiences later on with your adult children. ♦ Redefine yourself. The experts at Psychology Today suggest finding new roles and interests to explore, or spend more time exploring existing hobbies. For example, if you’ve thought about doing community theater, do so now that you have some free time. Or maybe you’ve always had a goal of going back to school? Now may be the time to make that happen. ♦ Reconnect with your partner. Recall the years before you had children when it was only the two of you and devote time to making more memories as a couple. Plan date nights, go to sporting events, attend a summer concert, or pursue other shared interests. ♦ Change things up at home. Turn children’s rooms into spaces you can use for your own interests. One can be a crafting room or a home office. Another may be a home theater. No longer labeling those rooms as the kids’ spaces can help the transition. Empty nest syndrome is real, but there are many ways to move past the mixed emotions synonymous with this phenomenon. – Courtesy of Metro Creative

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enior Helpers in Concord is Senior Helpers franchise owner Jenny Lind is hiring employees to help with her business, which provides nonmedical care to those in need.

looking for compassionate people to join their East

County team. Franchise owner Jenny Lind said the most important requirements are a caring heart, a clean criminal background and a reliable vehicle. “If you are a very caring person and are looking for work in a care field, this is a good fit,” Lind said. “When you don’t want to work in a facility where you have to go room to room, but want to build a relationship with one-on-one care, this is perfect. It’s a great way for people to work together and learn together, and it’s very rewarding.” Senior Helpers is licensed by the state to provide nonmedical care to those in need — care such as help with light chores, cooking, escort transportation (driving a client to a medical appointment or other errands) or running errands for them. Caregivers also assist with hygiene activities, personal care and helping clients stay comfortable. Lind opened her franchise of Senior Helpers 14 years ago. She said she chose it because she liked the people involved with the parent company and the many training opportunities available.

Photo courtesy of Jenny Lind

“They have really great training programs, which is another benefit of working here,” she said. “We have a lot of training on how to care and communicate with someone who has dementia, specific training for working with Parkinson’s disease, training for cooking and pain management, so someone who becomes a caregiver is learning their job really well, but also how to maybe help their own family member or loved one.” Individuals are hired on an hourly basis, and Lind said she is happy to work with people who have limited availability, such as weekends or evenings. Since Senior Helpers

works 24 hours a day, seven days a week, they are able to accommodate just about any schedule. Though full-time positions are available, they are in greater need of parttime help. “This is great for empty nesters who are retired, or their kids have gone off to college and they need something to fill their time,” said Lind. “For example, we have one client who has lost her vision and needs help with meal prep. We have another one who has Parkinson’s, and she needs some cooking throughout the day or errand running, taking her out, helping her so she doesn’t fall in the

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bathtub. So that doesn’t necessarily require someone there all the time, just part time.” Lind said while previous caregiving experience — either with a family member or professionally — is appreciated, it is not a requirement. Her company will train all new hires and offer continued professional development. “It just takes a compassionate person who is reliable,” she said. “You do have to have your own car, because you are going to someone’s home. You can’t take the bus or Uber, because you also need to do errandrunning or take our clients out.” Lind first conducts an in-home interview with a new client, and then matches them with a caregiver. Barbara Eye has been a Senior Helpers client for two years and said she doesn’t know what she would do without her caregiver, Lela. “I fortunately am able to do some things for myself, but I had major back and neck surgery four years ago, and that limited me,” Eye said. “Lela has been wonderful. I just find that if I ask for something, and she feels she can do it, she helps us. And she can tell me if my request is over and beyond what she does, because she has rights too. But most of the time, we are on the same page.” For more information on Senior Helpers, or to apply, call 925-677-2150, or visit www. seniorhelpers.com/ca/concord. – Advertorial

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The transition to life in the age of technology went smoothly for most segments of the population, but some aging adults have had a more difficult time making the adjustment. That difficulty was apparent throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, when public health agencies like the World Health Organization and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention urged aging adults to limit interactions with people outside their homes. Such recommendations forced many seniors to communicate with their families exclusively over the phone or via video conferencing apps like Zoom. If seniors have had a hard time adapting to technology, their families can try these strategies to make that transition go more smoothly. ♦ Go over product manuals with seniors. The senior caregiving experts at Home Care

Assistance note that older adults are less likely to learn through experimentation than they are by reading instructions in the manual. When helping seniors learn to use new devices, go over the owner’s manual with them as you set up the device. Mark important pages in the manual so seniors know where to go for quick answers if they experience any issues logging in or using certain apps. ♦ Look for senior-specific devices and guidebooks. Seniors make up an enormous segment of the population, and tech companies have long since recognized that there’s a market for products designed specifically for aging men and women. When shopping for devices for seniors, look for those that have been designed to help them overcome issues that have proven problematic for aging adults in the past. Devices that feature touchscreens with large menus, easily accessible navigation tools and simplified features can help seniors as they learn to use new technology. ♦ Be patient. Some seniors are excited by the prospect of learning to use new technology, while others may be hesitant. Patience is essential when working with an aging loved one who’s intimidated by technology. Take the time to explain apps and features and don’t take it for granted that seniors will know how to use a device or recognize what a device can do. – Courtesy of Metro Creative

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Eating a variety of foods can provide all of the nutrients people need to stay healthy as they get older. Certain foods may be particularly helpful.

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For seniors with medicine cabinets full of over-the-counter and prescription medications, the idea of relying predominantly on food to promote optimal health may be tempting, and various foods can be particularly useful to the 50-and-older demographic. According to the World Health Organization, poor diet is a major contributor to many of the diseases that affect older people. Poor diet has been connected to the development of diabetes, and degenerative diseases such as osteoporosis also may be linked to the foods one eats. The National Council for Aging Care says micronutrient deficiency is often a problem among the aging due to factors like lack of variety in diet and reduced food intake. Eating a variety of foods can provide all of the nutrients people need to stay healthy as they get older. Certain foods may be particularly helpful. Smart food choices can help seniors live long and healthy lives. ♦ Brain-friendly foods: Foods such as avocado, leafy vegetables, sunflower seeds, blueberries, and salmon are good sources of vitamin E, antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and other nutrients that may help ward off dementias like Alzheimer’s disease, Sonas Home Health Care advises.

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♦ Anti-inflammatory foods: Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids may help prevent inflammation that can cause cancer and rheumatoid arthritis. Aging.com says foods that are high in omega-3 fatty acids, like salmon, should be consumed at least twice per week. ♦ Fruits and vegetables: Fresh, canned or frozen produce tend to be high in micronutrients, including a variety of important vitamins that are essential for all components of health. The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics advises eating dark green vegetables, such as leafy greens or broccoli, and orange vegetables, such as carrots and sweet potatoes. ♦ Energy-boosters: Choose whole grains that can provide sustained energy by way of healthy carbohydrates over processed grains. ♦ Bone-friendly foods: Calcium-rich foods, such as milk, yogurt and cheese, can prevent calcium from being leached from the bones, which contributes to conditions like osteoporosis. ♦ Digestive system-friendly foods: The digestive system slows down as the body ages, as the walls of the gastrointestinal tract thicken and digestive contractions that push waste along may slow down and become fewer. Foods rich in fiber can promote proper digestion by moving food through the digestive tract more easily. High-fiber foods also may help naturally reduce blood cholesterol levels. ♦ High-iron foods: Without enough iron in the body, a person may feel tired and lethargic from a reduced production of hemoglobin, which carries oxygen in the blood from the lungs to the rest of the body. A lack of oxygen in body tissues from anemia can be serious, says the National Council for Aging Care. Tofu, spinach, lentils, pumpkin seeds, and fortified breads and cereals are high in iron. – Courtesy of Metro Creative

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Memory loss is not an inevitable side effect of aging, especially for adults who take steps to maintain their memories as they age. ♦ Continue learning. Harvard Medical School notes that a higher level of education is associated with improved mental functioning in old age. No one knows why, but experts theorize that advanced education compels people to remain mentally active, which, in turn, helps them maintain a strong memory. Even aging men and women who are still working in challenging fields can benefit from pursuing a new hobby or learning a new skill. ♦ Use the tools at your disposal. It may seem counterintuitive to suggest that organizational tools like planners, maps and lists can help people maintain their memories. However, Harvard Medical School notes that expending mental energy on finding car keys or trying to remember what to buy at the store makes it harder to learn new and important things. ♦ Let all your senses play a role. Harvard Medical School reports that the more senses a person uses to learn something, the more his or her brain is involved in retaining a memory. Harvard Medical School cites one study in which adults were shown a series of emotionally neutral images that were each presented along with a smell. Participants were not asked to recall what they saw, but were later shown a set of images and asked to indicate which they had previously seen. The participants had excellent recall for the odor-paired images, and researchers believe that’s because additional parts of the brain were activated when participants were asked to use more than one sense. – Courtesy of Metro Creative

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According to the Mayo Clinic, various parts of the body are affected by aging. For example, the cardiovascular system changes as people grow older. Blood vessels and arteries stiffen as adults age, forcing the heart to work harder to pump blood through them. Though many changes are linked to aging, other changes commonly associated with aging, such as a decline in memory, reasoning and other thinking skills, are not natural. The Alzheimer’s Association notes that dementia is not a normal part of aging. There are many different types of dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease, and these are the result of damage to brain cells that affect a person’s ability to communicate. That damage is not inevitable, even if it’s commonly associated with aging. The Harvard Medical School notes that fleeting memory problems experienced with aging often reflect normal changes in the structure and function of the brain. But it’s important that those changes not be mistaken for dementia, and it’s equally important that adults recognize there are many ways they can protect and sharpen their minds as they age.

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Drivers can ask themselves certain questions as they try to assess their ability to drive safely.

Does driving make me nervous, scared or overwhelmed? Drivers who feel confused by traffic signs and traffic (including pedestrians) should stop driving until they can discuss the issue with their physicians. Medication can sometimes make drivers feel sleepy or confused, and some aging drivers even find themselves overwhelmed in otherwise normal driving situations.

How is my eyesight? Are my loved ones The American Optometric Association concerned about notes that vision changes naturally occur as a person ages. Such changes do not necessarily my driving?

Do I drive with passengers? Drivers who routinely drive with passengers, especially young children, carry extra responsibility. As a result, such drivers owe it to themselves and their passengers to honestly assess their driving abilities. Various remedies can address age-related driving issues, and drivers should discuss them with their doctors the moment they feel as though their skills behind the wheel are starting to diminish. – Courtesy of Metro Creative

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Aging drivers may feel offended when family members question their ability to drive. However, the NHTSA notes that sometimes other people notice things about a person’s driving that the person does not. The concern expressed by loved ones should not be taken lightly.

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Age-related loss of strength, coordination and flexibility can make it hard for aging men and women to control their vehicles. Some signs that drivers might be having trouble controlling their vehicles include trouble looking over shoulders to change lanes, difficulty moving foot from the gas pedal to the brake pedal and difficulty turning the steering wheel. Pain in the knees, legs or ankles also can make it difficult for drivers to control their vehicles.

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furniture, family heirlooms, etc. To use a letter in this context, your will must state that you are authorizing the distribution of personal property in a separate writing, the separate writing must be dated and be either in your handwriting or signed by you. The benefit here is that you can change this letter at any time and add and subtract property as you see fit. Changes do not require you to amend your will or even contact an attorney, etc. In short, this method provides you flexibility in the distribution of personal property. If your will does not already include a reference to the use of such a letter, make sure you revise your will ASAP and have the necessary language added. We can certainly assist you with this and all other estate planning needs you may have. Every person is different, and we have many suggestions and options available to address your unique situation. If you have questions on this or any other estate planning topic, call me at (925) 5164888. East County Family Law Group, 1181 Central Blvd., Brentwood – Advertisement www.eastcountyfamilylaw.com

Estate planning documents cover the distribution of assets after death but do not always provide the details you may want those you leave behind to have. This is partly because these types of details and information typically change often. Changes to a will or trust require certain formalities (i.e. must be in writing, signed by you, etc.) This is where a letter instruction can be helpful. Although the letter is not binding, it can be very helpful in identifying final wishes you may have, such as social media posts, financial information, a list of assets and even desired distributions of personal property to assist those appointed to make those distributions. The letter can include account numbers, location of important documents, a list of professionals you use, website passwords, etc. Obviously, it is important to make sure the letter is updated on a regular basis to make sure the information is current. On the issue of personal property, another option is the use of a separate letter to make a binding distribution of personal property items such as vehicles, jewelry,

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2021

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Professionals nearing retirement age might not be able to spend long hours at the office like they used to. But aging affects more than just work and play. As men and women age, their ability to perform everyday tasks, including driving, may diminish as well. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration notes that, as people age, certain changes they experience can affect their ability to safely operate an automobile. Changes in eyesight, physical fitness and reflexes may require aging drivers to reassess their skills behind the wheel. The NHTSA notes that drivers can ask themselves the following questions as they try to assess their driving abilities.

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Routine exercise also can extend life expectancy. WebMD.com says exercise keeps the body and brain healthy. That’s why exercise should be an important component of daily life no matter one’s age. Research published in the journal Immune Aging found that how people age is 75 percent lifestyle and only 25 percent genetics, which underscores the importance of the lifestyle choices people make. These are just some of the ways exercise can help older adults live longer, healthier lives. Cardiorespiratory fitness Many health experts say that cardiorespiratory fitness may be just as valuable a metric to determine overall health as blood pressure and lipid levels. People with a high aerobic capacity can deliver oxygen to tissues and cells efficiently to fuel exercise, according to data published in 2014 in the journal Aging & Disease. In a study involving 11,335 women, researchers compared V02 max, also known as aerobic capacity, in women with mortality data. Women who were fit from a cardiovascular perspective had a lower death rate from all causes, irrespective of the women’s weight. Manage stress and mood Exercise has direct stress-busting benefits that can promote longevity. The Mayo Clinic says physical activity can increase the production of endorphins, which are the body’s feelgood neurotransmitters. In addition, exercise can imitate the effects of stress, helping the body adjust its flight or fight response accordingly, and help them cope with mildly stressful situations. While engaged in exercise, people

Photo by Metro Creative

Exercise keeps the body and brain healthy. That’s why exercise should be an important component of daily life no matter one’s age. may forget about their problems as they are focused on the activity at hand. Improve bone health Strength training and physical activity can stave off the effects of frailty and osteoporosis, which affects bone strength. A study published in the Journal of Internal Medicine in 2017 found that hip fractures are associated with diminished quality of life and survival among the elderly. One in three adults aged 50 and over dies within 12 months of suffering a hip fracture, and older adults have a five- to eight-times greater risk of dying within three months following a hip fracture. Building muscle strength, balance and bone density through exercise can reduce falls and frailty, helping to prevent fracturerelated health risks. Addresses sarcopenia The health and wellness resource Healthline defines sarcopenia as the loss of muscle mass specifically related to aging. Doctors once considered this muscle loss inevitable, and it can affect stamina and lead to weakness. However, new indications suggest that exercise is the main treatment regimen for sarcopenia, particularly resistance training. This is designed to improve muscle strength and help balance hormone levels by turning protein into energy for older adults. – Courtesy of Metro Creative

Pets provide amazing benefits to seniors

ets bring much joy to the lives they touch.

The 2019-2020 National Pet Owners Survey, which was conducted by the American Pet Products Association, found that about 85 million families in the United States own a pet. Pets offer companionship and unconditional love. While they are fitting for any family, seniors may find that having a pet is especially beneficial. Seniors considering getting a pet can explore the many benefits to doing so. ♦ Reduce pain: A 2012 study published in Pain Magazine found therapy dogs provided ‘significant reduction in pain and emotional distress for chronic pain patients.’

♦ Feeling of purpose: Caring for an animal not only stimulates physical activity, but it also can give seniors a reason to get up and go, which equates to a feeling of purpose. ♦ Altered focus: Having a pet can help seniors focus on something other than physical or mental health issues and preoccupations about loss or aging, according to New Yorkbased psychologist Penny B. Donnenfeld. ♦ Increased physical activity: Pets require care, and that interaction can get seniors moving more than if they didn’t have a pet. ♦ Improved health: Ongoing research from Harvard Medical School has found dog owners have lower blood pressure, healthier cholesterol levels and lower risk of heart disease than those who don’t own a dog. – Courtesy of Metro Creative

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How to give back to seniors in your community

he strongest communities tend to be those in which members make a concerted

effort to give as much as they get. Giving back to one’s community can foster strong relationships with fellow residents and ensure that everyone, including the less fortunate, is in position to live happy, healthful lives. Certain people may be more vulnerable to problems that can reduce their quality of life. For example, the National Institute on Aging notes that, as men and women age, many are alone more often than when they were younger, leaving them vulnerable to social isolation and loneliness. Such feelings can prove very harmful to their health, potentially contributing to problems such as depression, cognitive decline and heart disease. Volunteering to help the aging residents is a great way to give back, and such efforts can prove rewarding for both seniors and the volunteers who lend them a hand. ♦ Pull up an extra chair to the dinner table. Many a meaningful connection has been made and maintained over the dinner table. Breaking bread with a senior from your

community is a great way to foster such connections and provide an avenue for social interaction for seniors. Seniors who live alone might not enjoy cooking for one each night, but they might jump at the chance to eat dinner with a neighbor and even help prepare the meal. Invite a senior over once per week, encouraging them to share stories about their lives as well as how the community has developed over the years. ♦ Help seniors manage their finances. Many seniors struggle to manage their finances, as laws regarding taxes and investing are subject to routine changes. A little help in this area can go a long way for seniors. Adults who want to help but don’t know where to begin can do the legwork for their aging neighbors. Contact agencies such as AARP to determine if there are any financial assistance programs that can help seniors effectively manage their money and take advantage of age-specific perks, such as programs that may help seniors lower their energy costs. ♦ Offer to help around the house. Seniors who reside in single-family homes may not be able to keep up with routine home maintenance. Neighbors who want to help can offer to mow the lawn, tend to the landscaping and tidy up inside. Keep an eye open for other issues, such as clogged gutters, that can be fixed easily but prove costly if they go ignored. – Courtesy of Metro Creative

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