Category: Education for Senior Providers

Live Training Sessions for Alzheimer’s Family Caregivers, Starting May 22

Blog Post by Mike Brunt, Franchise Owner, Home Instead Senior Care

 

OVERVIEW

By now, many of you have heard about our free online courses for family caregivers who are taking care of loved ones with Alzheimer’s or other dementias. Now we are taking this training to the next level by offering free live workshops covering essential topics for Alzheimer’s family caregivers. Please call today to reserve your seat in this valuable educational opportunity.

The training was developed by Home Instead Senior Care in consultation with a nationwide panel of experts and will run over the course of 3 weeks with a 1.5 hour session each week. We will take a group of around 10 family caregivers through the courses sequentially as each course builds on the previous one.

In Washington County, we will be offering this series of classes several times in 2012. Our first round starts on Tuesday, May 22 and is detailed below:

LOCATION

Home Instead Senior Care Office
12194 SW Scholls Ferry Rd., Tigard, 97223

CALL TO REGISTER

503-530-1527

TRAINER

Jean Blackburn, Gerontology Specialist

Jean has earned a special certificate from PCC’s Gerontology Department  in “Advanced Behavioral and Cognitive Awareness.” Jean has been a High School Teacher, VP of operations in a training seminar company, has worked for Home Instead Senior care for about 2 years, and most importantly, has been a family caregiver for 10 years for her aging mother who had Alzheimer’s disease. It was the personal experience Jean had with the care of her Mother that inspired her to be of service to other seniors and work with like-minded people. Jean is a dedicated life-long learner who enjoys spending time with her family and friends, with emphasis on her 1-yr.-old Grandson, as well as hiking, exercising, reading, volunteering with “Elders in Action,” and trying new things.

DATES, TIMES, TOPICS COVERED

Date: Tuesday, May 22, 2012; 6:30 – 8:00 p.m.

ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE OR OTHER DEMENTIAS

  • Learn to recognize the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease or other dementias.
  • Discover how Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias are diagnosed.
  • Understand more about the behaviors that can be caused by the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias.

 

CAPTURING LIFE’S JOURNEY (SM)

  • Discover how “Capture Life’s Journey” can help you and others provide the best care for your loved one.
  • Learn techniques to encourage your loved one to share their stories and memories.
  • Become familiar with the format of the Life Journal and how to record information about your loved one’s past.
  • Find out how to use the Life Journal in partnership with professional caregivers.

 

Date: Tuesday, May 29, 2012; 6:30 – 8:00 p.m.

TECHNIQUES TO HANDLE CHALLENGING BEHAVIORS

  • Learn more about the challenging behaviors that may be displayed by those with Alzheimer’s or other dementias.
  • Discover techniques to help handle these behaviors.
  • Determine what techniques work best to manage different types of behaviors.

 

Date: Tuesday, June 5, 2012; 6:30 – 8:00 p.m.

ACTIVITIES TO ENCOURAGE ENGAGEMENT

  • Learn about the benefits of staying active for a person with Alzheimer’s disease or other dementia.
  • Learn about three types of activities — for mind, body, and soul.
  • Discover various techniques to encourage your loved one to engage in an activity.
  • Become familiar with activities that are suitable for late stage Alzheimer’s disease or other dementia, to stimulate your loved one’s five senses.

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No Comments by Mike Brunt on May 17, 2012
filed in Alzheimer's and Dementia, Communication and Relationships, Education for Senior Providers, Family Caregivers, Geriatric Psychiatry, Isolation and Depression, Local Events, Physical Activity and Conditioning, Practical Tips and Resources, Senior Nutrition and Health

Free Alzheimer’s e-Learning Courses for Family Caregivers

Blog Post by Mike Brunt, Local Owner, Home Instead Senior Care
on behalf of all Portland Area Home Instead Locations

This series of online training courses will give you basic information about Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. More importantly, you will gain valuable insight for providing better care for a loved one with these conditions.

At the end of the course you will be equipped with several techniques to help improve both your and your loved one’s quality of life.

Each class can be completed within 5-15 minutes. No preregistration required.

At the end of each class you can download a Class Checklist PDF.

(Below is a review from Tina Jackson, a trusted employee who has coordinated service for my clients and CAREGivers for 3.5 years.)

I just completed this course, and was very impressed by the way the information was presented.  The information was simple and clear, the graphs were informative and eye-opening, and the testimonials and interactive role-playing allow the reader to see the suggestions in action.  The maps of the houses describing different ways to redirect in different rooms of the house, or various safety hazards to consider, is again, very simple and thought provoking.  I also like how the information stresses the importance of family caregivers taking care of themselves too.

To me, the information was presented in a way that seemed thorough, but not overwhelming, and the option to be able to print a summary of each section allows the reader to be able to keep this information at their fingertips, and/or easily share it with others.

I am more and more impressed with Home Instead Senior Care as time goes on.  I do feel truly blessed to be a part of such a wonderful organization, and to truly value and believe in what we have to offer our community, and whomever else we might impact.  This is an awesome resource I am very excited about.

 

And Finally, here is one more screen shot from the online training.

 

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1 Comment by Mike Brunt on May 15, 2012
filed in Alzheimer's and Dementia, Communication and Relationships, Education for Senior Providers, Family Caregivers, Isolation and Depression, Practical Tips and Resources, Senior Care Reference Materials, Senior Nutrition and Health

Connected to Trusted Advisors

Posted by Deborah Wilkinson

Member, Senior Resource Alliance Northwest

As a real estate broker, I found myself negotiating the sale of a home when my client was diagnosed for the second time with cancer.  In spite of age, the doctors had some hope that she could again beat it.  She, along with her family, were concerned about what would happen to the sale if she died before it was completed.   While there was a Will,  as it stood, there was no way to pass the assets on outside of probate which would interrupt the sale of the home.  We needed an attorney who specialized in estates and trusts.

 

For me, finding that knowledgeable and trusted advisor to refer was easy because I was already working with Stephanie Carter, a fellow member of Senior Resource Alliance NW (our group specializes in providing important services to the 55+ population and their families).  Stephanie responded immediately, scheduling the family for a meeting to review options.  Before that could happen, my client was hospitalized.  Stephanie put together all of the documents.

That signing took place at the hospital.  Being there, I could see the relief in my client’s face when she knew everything was taken care of for her two daughters.  Four days later, she died.

Dealing with the loss of loved ones and friends is extremely difficult.  Having affairs in order takes an incredible burden off their shoulders.  With the daughters, we are currently working to close the sale of their Mother’s home, and everything is progressing smoothly because of the action we took.

As a resource group, most of the work we do together is not so extreme or urgent, but what a relief it is to have the right people close by to get the job done; and quickly when needed.

Deborah Wilkinson, GRI, SRES, Oregon Principal Broker, Premiere Property Group, 5000 Meadows Road, Suite 150, Lake Oswego, OR 97035, (503)453-3597 (direct), (503) 670-9000 (office)
www.movingthroughyour life.com

 

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No Comments by jeanblackburn on April 9, 2012
filed in Aging In Place, Education for Senior Providers, Elder Law, Financial Issues, Risks, Resources, Senior Housing Options, Senior Resource Alliance NW, Uncategorized

Reporting Elder Abuse

Posted by Meredith Williamson

Member, Senior Resource Alliance Northwest


The abuse of our elderly population is a growing problem.  Abuse can take on many forms.  It can occur anywhere. Often it goes unreported if it is perpetrated by a relative or close friend of the elderly person.

What is Elder Abuse?  For the purpose of Oregon State law regarding elderly abuse, an elderly person is defined as anyone over the age of 65.  Abuse includes:

  • A physical injury to the senior not resulting from an accident;
  • Neglect that leads to physical harm;
  • Abandonment;
  • Caregiver neglecting duties and obligations owed to an elderly person;
  • Wilful infliction of physical pain or injury;
  • Use of derogatory or inappropriate names, phrases or profanity, ridicule, harrassment, coercion, threats, cursing, intimidation or inappropriate sexual comments or conduct of such a nature as to threaten significant physical or emotional harm to the elderly person or person with a disability.
  • Certain sweepstakes promotions;
  • Wrongfully taking or appropriating money or property; or
  • Sexual contact that is not agreed upon by the elderly person.

 

Should I report? You are mandated by law to report abuse if, while you are acting under an official capacity, you have reason to believe that any senior with whom you come in contact has suffered abuse, or  is the perpetrator of the abuse.  Persons who may be acting in “official capacity” include health care professionals, employees of DHS, mental health providers, firefighters, etc.

Even if you are not required by law to file a report, if you see or have reason to believe abuse is happening, you should file a report.  Just like with any criminal behavior, it is best to report the suspected abuse and let the people who are trained investigate it.  If you file a report of suspected elder abuse, and you do so in good faith, you will be protected from potential civil liability that could otherwise result from the report.

How do I make a report? Call your local Department of Human Serices (DHS) or law enforcement agency in the county where the abuse occurred.  You will be asked the names and addresses of the elderly person and any persons responsible for the care of the elderly person, the type of abuse you are reporting, names of perpetrators or description if names are not known, and any other helpful information you can think of.  A list of the DHS (Area Agency on Aging) offices can be found in the Choice Senior Resource Guide or online at http://www.oregon.gov/DHS/spwpd/offices.shtml.

Adult Protective Services will arrange for immediate protection of the senior, assess the senior’s ability to participate in the investigation and arrange for services to prevent future abuse.

June 15th is National Elder Abuse Awareness Day.  Help spread the word about the issue of abuse by sharing this post or visiting www.ncea.aoa.gov to see how you can volunteer in your area.

For a free copy of the Choice Senior Resource Guide, please call Meredith at 503-353-7870 or order copies online.

 

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No Comments by jeanblackburn on April 7, 2012
filed in Alzheimer's and Dementia, Education for Senior Providers, Family Caregivers, Senior Housing Options, Senior Resource Alliance NW

In July, Certified Senior Advisor Course To Be Offered in Seattle

Blog Post by Mike Brunt, CSA

For those of you who have considered becoming a Certified Senior Advisor, you may be interested to know that the certification class and test will take place July 10-13 in the Seattle area.

I earned this certification a couple of years ago, and it has been a wonderful credential for me in my work with seniors. I found the material covered in the three-day course to be very relevant and interesting. On the fourth day, you take a 3-hour test which, when you pass, qualifies you to use the CSA credential.

To learn more about my experience in becoming a CSA, you may read my blog post on the topic.

I believe so much in this certification program, that I am sending my Referral Relationship Developer, Jean Blackburn, to Seattle in July.

Dan Kacerovskis is my education representative at The Society of Certified Senior Advisors. Dan said that if there are at least 15 people in the Portland are who are interested in taking the course, he can schedule a class for Portland. So, if you are interested in attending the course in either Seattle or Portland, please give Dan a call at 888-828-9280.

Benefits of Becoming a Certified Senior Advisor (PDF)

 

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No Comments by Mike Brunt on April 6, 2012
filed in Education for Senior Providers, Local Events

Helping Seniors Eat Right When Money is Tight!

Posted by Judith Auslander, MA – Senior SNAP Outreach

Rising food prices have put a lot of pressure on budgets.  Many seniors are going hungry or are eating foods that are less nutritious.  If you know of someone who needs help, *SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), may help.  Currently only 1 out of every 3 eligible seniors is receiving the food assistance they deserve.

 

SNAP FACTS

  • Single monthly income limit is $1,723.  Two-person household is $2,333.  Income levels increase with more people in your household.  Note:  Check with a worker - medical costs or other deductions may help you qualify.
  • For most households, resources such as cars, homes, and/or savings or retirement accounts  do not affect eligibility.
  • You can qualify if you are working, unemployed or retired.
  • You may qualify even if you live with other people.
  • Interviews can be done by phone.

SNAP helps your community

  • SNAP dollars support your community, local business owners and stimulate the local economy.  In 2011, more than $1 billion federal dollars were returned to Oregon through SNAP.
  • There are enough SNAP dollars for everyone who needs them.
  • Just like debit cards – The Oregon Trail EBT card can be used at grocery stores and many
    farmers’ markets.

Other Benefits

  • With SNAP you qualify for telephone bill assistance (with most phone companies)
  • You may also qualify for vouchers for farmers’ markets and most roadside farm stands.

Call SAFENET at 800-723-3638 or dial 211.
For more information go to www.oregonhunger.org

*Formerly known as Food Stamps

Judith Auslander, MA – Senior SNAP Outreach, Partners for a Hunger-Free Oregon
(503) 595-5501 x7 – judith@oregonhunger.org

 

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No Comments by jeanblackburn on March 2, 2012
filed in Education for Senior Providers, Family Caregivers, Senior Nutrition and Health

Family Caregiver Support – 2012 Webinar Series

Blog Post by Portland-Area Offices of Home Instead Senior Care

The 2012 Family Caregiver Support Web Seminar Series provides access to information and advice from professionals experienced with issues faced by family caregivers.Caring for a senior loved one can bring a sense of fulfillment, but usually not without a few challenges as well. To help you feel a little more confident and equipped in your role as a family caregiver, the Home Instead Senior Care® network is launching the 2012 Family Caregiver Support Web Seminar Series, featuring free monthly seminars for family caregivers on a variety of essential caregiving topics.

The web seminars, hosted in cooperation with the American Society on Aging (ASA), provide tips, information and advice from the perspective of professionals who are well-versed in issues facing families caring for aging loved ones.

Please note, these Family Caregiver Webinars are not eligible for CEU credits. The CEU credit offering is only available for the webinars featured in the Professional Family Caregiver series.

Please pre-register for any Family Caregiver Webinar by the deadline of 9 PM PST the day before! for the following 2012 Senior Care Web Series. Please click each “Register Now” link below for more details of each webinar and to sign up.

Living at Home with Arthritis – Family Caregiver Webinar
Wednesday, March 21, 2012 | 10:00 AM Pacific / 11:00 AM Mountain / 12:00 PM Central / 1:00 PM Eastern. Register Now.

How to Help your Senior Manage Medications – Family Caregiver Webinar
Wednesday, April 25, 2012 | 10:00 AM Pacific / 11:00 AM Mountain / 12:00 PM Central / 1:00 PM Eastern. Register Now.

Navigating the Senior Care Maze – Family Caregiver Webinar
Wednesday, May 23, 2012 | 10:00 AM Pacific / 11:00 AM Mountain / 12:00 PM Central / 1:00 PM Eastern. Register Now.

Caring for Someone with Alzheimer’s – Family Caregiver Webinar
Wednesday, June 27, 2012 | 10:00 AM Pacific / 11:00 AM Mountain / 12:00 PM Central / 1:00 PM Eastern. Register Now.

Managing the Stress of a Family Caregiver – Family Caregiver Webinar
Wednesday, July 25, 2012 | 10:00 AM Pacific / 11:00 AM Mountain / 12:00 PM Central / 1:00 PM Eastern. Register Now.

How to Balance Work and At-Home Care – Family Caregiver Webinar
Wednesday, August 22, 2012 | 10:00 AM Pacific / 11:00 AM Mountain / 12:00 PM Central / 1:00 PM Eastern. Register Now.

Senior Cognitive Issues – Family Caregiver Webinar
Wednesday, September 26, 2012 | 10:00 AM Pacific / 11:00 AM Mountain / 12:00 PM Central / 1:00 PM Eastern. Register Now.

Helping Seniors with Finances – Family Caregiver Webinar
Wednesday, October 24, 2012 | 10:00 AM Pacific / 11:00 AM Mountain / 12:00 PM Central / 1:00 PM Eastern. Register Now.

Helping Seniors with Loss of Independence – Family Caregiver Webinar
Wednesday, November 28, 2012 | 10:00 AM Pacific / 11:00 AM Mountain / 12:00 PM Central / 1:00 PM Eastern. Register Now.

Multi-Generational Living – Family Caregiver Webinar
Wednesday, December 19, 2012 | 10:00 AM Pacific / 11:00 AM Mountain / 12:00 PM Central / 1:00 PM Eastern. Register Now.

Get more information and pre-register on any webinar above. You may also Email info@asaging.org or call 415-974-9600 if you have questions about registering for or accessing a recorded webinar.

 

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No Comments by Mike Brunt on February 26, 2012
filed in Alzheimer's and Dementia, Clinical Insights for Elder Care, Communication and Relationships, Education for Senior Providers, Family Caregivers, Financial Issues, Risks, Resources, Isolation and Depression, Practical Tips and Resources

WSJ Highlights Caregiver Resources from Genworth, AARP, and Home Instead

Blog Post by Portland-Area Offices of Home Instead Senior Care
Content from February 18, 2012 article in the Wall Street Journal, Family Value Section

Caring for an elderly relative isn’t just costly and time-consuming—studies show it could even harm your own health. Now, some companies and nonprofits are rolling out free and low-cost professional help for family caregivers.

Genworth Financial, a large long-term-care insurer, and AARP, the membership group for older Americans, on Thursday introduced a new service for AARP members through which the families of older adults with dementia and other illnesses can assess their needs and develop a care plan—either online, over the phone or in person with a registered nurse.

……….

The new service, formally known as AARP Caregiving Help and Advice from Genworth ranges from $12.99 for six months of online access to $149 for a phone assessment, a service plan and six months of online access, to $489 for an in-home consultation. Adding the “service finder” option—which includes researching local availability, providing quality ratings, negotiating discounts and coordinating the start of care—brings the phone total to $295 and the in-person bill to $665.

……….

Home Instead Senior Care, for its part, is trying to help caregivers—both its own 70,000 paid workers and the public—better meet the needs of people with Alzheimer’s.

“Rather than trying to force Alzheimer’s patients to live in our world in the here and now,” Home Instead’s Mr. Huber says, “we need to meet them in the past.”

For example, one of Home Instead’s clients in Omaha, Neb., where it is based, had served in the military. To persuade him to take a bath—something Alzheimer’s patients often have an aversion to—his caregiver told him a general was coming for inspection and he needed to get ready. He immediately took a bath, Mr. Huber says.

Such simple strategies, he adds, can help people with Alzheimer’s prolong their time at home as well.

By the end of this year, all of the company’s 600-plus franchised locations expect to offer Alzheimer’s training for caregivers. And in May, it plans to post an online course at the Help for Alzheimer’s Families website, which already has other resources.

These new programs come on top of free services offered by the U.S. Administration on Aging’s Eldercare Locator, which connects older adults and families to local agencies, and the nonprofit National Council on Aging’s BenefitsCheckUp site, which provides screening for more than 2,000 public and private programs.

Link to full Wall Street Journal article

 

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1 Comment by Mike Brunt on February 26, 2012
filed in Alzheimer's and Dementia, Education for Senior Providers, Family Caregivers, Financial Issues, Risks, Resources, Practical Tips and Resources

The What, Why, When, Where, and How of Caregiver Help at Home

Blog Post by Mike Brunt

A couple of weeks ago, I had the pleasure of taking part in a seminar series put on by Penny Holcomb at Hearthstone at Murrayhill. My presentation to the seniors and their adult children was titled, “Life’s Easier with a Little Help from a Friend,” and was a sort of primer on in-home care.

One of the common misperceptions about in-home care is that only seniors still living in their own private homes need to hire caregivers to provide extra help. People often don’t realize that the cost of living in a retirement community doesn’t normally include any one-on-one help for the seniors. Whether the help is in the form of standby shower assistance, medication help, or driving to shopping and appointments, seniors living in retirement communities often still need support to maintain their independent lifestyles.

Another big question for families needing support from caregivers is “Should I find and hire a caregiver, or should I use an agency like Home Instead Senior Care?” The loving family friend who is currently unemployed may be able and willing to provide paid caregiving services. But, what about her payroll taxes and health insurance. Worse yet, what if she accidentally breaks a valuable antique or gets hurt on the job? It’s important for families to realize that when they directly hire caregivers, they put themselves in the position of “employer” with all its attendant risks and responsibilities.

If you know of a group who would like me to hear my presentation, please let me know by calling 503-530-1527. My slides below contain some good resource links.

Mike Brunt Presentation – Life’s Easier with a Little Help from a Friend (PDF)

You can find more about the basics of in-home care by downloading this printable guide called The Home Care Solution.

 

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No Comments by Mike Brunt on February 13, 2012
filed in Education for Senior Providers, Family Caregivers, Practical Tips and Resources, Senior Care Reference Materials, Senior Housing Options

Battle Over $400 Million Estate Amid Allegations of Undue Influence and Elder Abuse

Post by Stephanie Carter, Attorney at Law, with Draneas & Huglin, P.C.

Member, Senior Resource Alliance Northwest

Copper mining heiress and youngest daughter of former U.S. Senator and industrialist William A. Clark, Huguette Clark, died in May 2011 at the age of 104.  She left behind an estate totalling approximately $400 million.

Clark’s last will and testament was filed with the court in June 2011.  The will was made in 2005 and left 75% of her estate, about $300 million, to charity.  Her longtime nurse, Hadassah Peri, received about $30 million, her goddaughter, Wanda Styka, received about $12 million, and the newly created Bellosguardo Foundation received $8 million (a charitable foundation overseen by her accountant, Irving Kamsler, and her attorney, Wallace Bock).  Other employees who managed her residences received smaller sums.  Her attorney and accountant each received a bequest of $500,000.

Clark’s family has filed court documents indicating there was a different will, dated six weeks earlier, which leaves most of her estate to her family.  The documents alleged that Kamsler and Bock systematically manipulated and exploited Clark, isolating her from her family, and taking away her free will.  These allegations are the basis for a potential elder abuse and undue influence suit.  Apparently, questions about Kamsler and Bock’s management of Clark’s fortune were raised in a 2010 series of investigative reports on MSNBC.  As a result, both men were placed under investigation by the Manhattan District Attorney’s office.

Recent investigations by the Manhattan public administrator indicate that Kamsler and Bock, who were paid thousands of dollars a month for responsibilities that included dealing with Clark’s taxes, had let $90 million in unpaid federal gift taxes and penalties accrue by December 2011.  Amid rumors that the public administrator was about to request the court to remove Kamsler and Bock as executors of the estate, Kamsler resigned.

Clark’s case raises several issues that seniors should be aware of as they plan for management of their affairs in the event of incapacity and the distribution of their estate after their death.

Normally a person in Clark’s situation would have established a revocable living trust and all of her assets would have been held by the trust and managed by one or more trustees.

The trustee(s) would have been subject to fiduciary duties, their actiions could be reviewed by the court at the request of an interested person, and the trustee fees would likely have been limited to a “reasonable fee.”  A trust would also have avoided probate, kept the details of Clark’s estate private, and facilitated the transfer of assets to the beneficiaries.

Such an estate plan may have avoided the potential for elder abuse that is alleged in this case.  Under Oregon law, a person can designate a “Trust Protector” who receives annual accountings and reports on the trust and may have the power to remove and replace a trustee.  This is another safeguard.

There are also ethical issues with regard to attorney Bock receiving a bequest from Clark, particularly if he prepared the will.

Sources:  Reuters, “Family of reclusive U.S. copper heiress disputes will,” Chris Francescani, November 29, 011.  Associated Press, “Taxes questioned, accountant quits on heiress’s estate.”

Stephanie Carter, Attorney at Law, Draneas & Huglin, P.C., 4004 Kruse Way Place, Suite 200,
Lake Oswego, OR, (503) 496-5509, stephanie@draneaslaw.com

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No Comments by jeanblackburn on February 13, 2012
filed in Education for Senior Providers, Elder Law, Financial Issues, Risks, Resources, Senior Care Reference Materials, Senior Resource Alliance NW

Senior Resource Fair

Blog Posted by: Preston Roth

Your are all invited to our upcoming FREE  Senior Resource Fair. This FREE event gives seniors and their families an opportunity to speak with professionals in the Senior Care Industry who can help them with the issues, concerns or events in a senior’s life.

We know that navigating through the possible needs and events in a loved one’s life can be daunting at times so with that in mind we have partnered with key community members and professionals to provide solutions for your needs.

For our upcoming February 25th, 2012 Senior Resource Fair Home Instead Senior Care has partnered with Russellville Park Retirement Community to bring to you a wealth of free information all in one beautiful place. The below professionals will be at this year’s event to help you plan for your loved ones possible needs.

Senior Resource Fair Flyer

  1. Home Instead Senior Care - Information about our services and how we can help your loved one stay independent for as long as possible within the place they call home.
  2. Russellville Park Retirement Community - A fantastic community in East Portland that offers seniors looking to move to a retirement community, amazing amenities’ and wonderful senior programs.
  3. Hospice Care of the NW – End of life care and planning.
  4. Veterans Services – Information on helping you navigate through the VA process to receive the funds your veteran may have available.
  5. Take Care Move Assistance – A business that helps you move your loved one when that time comes.
  6. Realtor – Information on selling a home and other options that may help fund your loved ones retirement.
  7. Parkinson’s Resource Center – Information about Parkinson’s.
  8. Providence Home Services – Information about nursing services and medical equipment that may be needed in a loved ones home.
  9. Elders in Action – Trained Senior Advocates who link individuals to community resources.
  10. Golden Life Solutions – Financial Planning.
  11. Pixton Law Group – Legal Planning.
  12. Prestige Care – Information about Retirement Living Communities.

Event info:

Date: Saturday February 25th 2012

Time: 11-2pm

Where: Russellville Park West Theater

23 SE 103rd Avenue

Portland Oregon 97216

 

 

 

1 Comment by prestonroth on February 10, 2012
filed in Community Service, Education for Senior Providers, Local Events

I Can’t Get Ready to Move to a Retirement Community In A Week!

Post by Kim Megorden, CRTS, with KARE Transitions, LLC

Member:  Senior Resource Alliance Northwest

Betty was ready to move into a Retirement Community–or so the Marketing Director thought.  The move date was set, the movers had been booked, and the new apartment was ready.  Betty was not.  She had lived in her home for 30 years and had a lot of memories to sort through.  She could not accomplish this in a week.

So, the Retirement Community called a Senior Move Manager who got in touch with her right away.  Betty was very agitated and stressed.  She was convinced that all of the work that had to be done could not happen in this short time frame.   The Move Manager assured her that it could be done.

When the Move Manager arrived at Betty’s home the following day, Betty was quite distressed.  Standing in her living room, looking around, Betty was overwhelmed.  So, they started by sorting through Betty’s artwork to determine which pieces she would like to take with her.  For the next three hours, they went from room to room together, choosing and tagging the items to be moved.  Betty enjoyed talking about the things they were sorting–every piece had a story.  The Move Manager listened while she sorted and tagged.  Everything was clearly labeled for the movers so they would know where it would be placed in the new residence.  A copy of the floor plan and the color codes for the tagging system was taped to the refrigerator.  An area was set up for the Estate Sale service with items to be sold.  The Move Manager packed some items to be shipped to Betty’s family.  When they finished, Betty was all smiles.  What she thought was impossible now looked very doable.  She gave the Move Manager a big hug and thanked her.  Betty said, “I am ready to move; I am going to take a nap!”

If you are faced with the daunting task of sorting and packing a lifetime of memories, a Senior Move Manager can make this task a lot easier and more enjoyable.  The Move Manager works with clients to get everything sorted and packed according to their wishes.  They work closely with the Movers, Estate Sales, Realtors and Retirement Communities to ensure that all needs are covered for the clients. 

Kim Megorden, CRTS, (503) 819-2650, www.karetransitions.com

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No Comments by jeanblackburn on February 9, 2012
filed in Education for Senior Providers, Family Caregivers, Practical Tips and Resources, Senior Care Reference Materials, Senior Housing Options, Senior Resource Alliance NW, Uncategorized

My Doctor wants me to sign a POLST form. What’s a POLST?

Post by Stephanie Carter, Attorney at Law, with Draneas & Huglin, P.C.

Member, Senior Resource Alliance Northwest

Clients who visit my office for estate planning assistance frequently bring with them a POLST form that they received from their doctor.  They want to know if they should complete the form.  My answer to their questions will vary, depending on their health circumstances.

The acronym POLST stands for “Physician Orders for Life Sustaining Treatment.”  Some form of POLST is available in the majority of states.  The POLST is designed to be used by individuals who suffer from a terminal or life-limiting illness.  The form allows a person to express his or her wishes with regard to receipt of:
1.   Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR);
2.   Degree of medical intervention; and
3.   Tube feeding.

For example, when a terminally ill person decides not to pursue life-saving treatment or opts for hospice, a brightly colored POLST will be posted in one or more prominent places in the residence (often attached to the front door of the residence and the bedroom door) to alert medical personnel to the fact that the person does not want to be resuscitated and that natural death should be allowed to occur.

To be valid, a POLST form must be signed by the individual’s attending physician, physician’s assistant, or nurse practitioner.  The POLST form becomes an official part of the individual’s medical record and may be registered with the Oregon POLST registry
(http://www.ohsu.edu/polst/programs/OregonPOLSTRegistry.htm).   The POLST follows the person wherever he or she receives medical treatment, be it in a healthcare facility, home or hospice center.

A POLST form is fully amendable.  Individuals can change their wishes at any time and are free to request medical treatment different from what is on the POLST form.  Further, individuals can grant a representative the ability to modify or revoke the POLST form in the event the individual becomes incapacitated.

The POLST complements the Advance Directive and is not intended to replace it or other estate planning (will, trust, power of attorney, etc.)  An Advance Directive is necessary to appoint a legal health care representative and provide instructions for future life-sustaining treatments.  The Advance Directive is recommended for all adults, regardless of their health status.  A POLST form should accompany an Advance Directive when appropriate.

For more information about the POLST, an extensive “Frequently Asked Questiions” page is available at http://www.ohsu.edu/polst/patients-families/faqs.htm.

Stephanie Carter, Attorney at Law, Draneas & Huglin, P>C> 4004 Kruse Way Place, Suite 200,
Lake Oswego, OR, (503) 496-5509, http://stephanie@draneaslaw.com

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No Comments by jeanblackburn on February 6, 2012
filed in Education for Senior Providers, Elder Law, End-of-Life Care, Family Caregivers, Legislative and Political Issues, Senior Care Reference Materials, Senior Resource Alliance NW, Uncategorized

Oregon Transfer-On-Death Deeds: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly

Post by Stephanie Carter, Attorney at Law, with Draneas & Huglin, P.C.

Member, Senior Resource Alliance Northwest

On January 1, 2012, a new estate planning tool became available to Oregonians–the Transfer-on-Death Deed (TODD).  The new law allows property owners to transfer real property (i.e., real estate) to one or more beneficiaries using a TODD.   The Deed must be recorded while the transferor is still living, but is revocable and does not take effect until the transferor’s death.  This means that the property owner can sell the property at any time during his or her lifetime, automatically revoking the TODD.

Bank accounts, certificates of deposit, investment accounts, life insurance and almost all other assets have long allowed the owner to designate a beneficiary and, thus, avoid probate.  Real property, often the largest asset a person owns, did not allow such a designation.  The new TODD is intended to allow for real property to pass after death without probate.

When used in the right circumstances, a TODD could save the estate money.

As an estate planner, I have several concerns about the use of  TODDs without first obtaining competent legal advice.  Some of these are:

1.  Potential for fraud and elder abuse.  An untrustworthy individual could influence an elderly property owner to sign a TODD in his or her favor.  Such a transfer may defeat the transferor’s estate planning objectives.  The persons who would otherwise have inherited the property would have to bring a court action to defeat the TODD.

2.  18-month Cloud on Title.  When an estate is probated, there is a four-month creditor claim period, and the State of Oregon must be informed of the probate proceeding.  At the end of the claim period, clear title to the property may be transferred.  If a TODD is used, the property may not be transferred for 18 months.  One of the reasons for this longer period is to allow the state of Oregon to learn of the property owner’s death and assert a claim against the property for monies the State paid out for Medicaid care.

3.  Multiple grantors may lead to inconsistent results.  If there are joint grantors, a surviving grantor may revoke the deed after the other grantor’s death.  The revocation may be inconsistent with the deceased grantor’s wishes.

A TODD may or may not be the best tool for you to use to transfer real property at your death.  Consult an estate planning attorney to learn if this option is right for you.

Stephanie Carter, Attorney at Law, Draneas & Huglin, P.C., 4004 Kruse Way Place, Suite 200,
Lake Oswego, OR, (503) 496-5509, stephanie@draneaslaw.com

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No Comments by jeanblackburn on January 31, 2012
filed in Baby Boomer Age Wave, Education for Senior Providers, Elder Law, Family Caregivers, Financial Issues, Risks, Resources, Legislative and Political Issues, Senior Resource Alliance NW

Who Gets the Tax Deduction When Decedent’s Personal Property is Donated to a Charity?

Post by Stephanie Carter,  Attorney at Law, with Draneas & Huglin, P.C.

Member, Senior Resource Alliance Northwest

When I assist a personal representative in the probate of an estate, the question almost always arises:  Who gets the tax deduction when the decedent’s personal property is donated to a charity?

Most clients assume that the estate gets the tax deduction.  That is incorrect!  Instead, the receipt for the deduction should be passed on to the beneficiary.  So, look at the decedent’s will or trust to see who was gifted the decedent’s personal property.  If the decedent died with no estate planning in place, then you would look at the intestacy statute to see who inherits the estate.

It is also important to remember that a trustee or personal representative (“fiduciary”) should not dispose of personal property to anyone other than the designated beneficiary without authorization.  Sometimes this authorization is provided in the will or trust.
For example, the estate planning document may give the fiduciary discretion to sell personal property and give the beneficiary the proceeds from sale.  In other cases, the beneficiaries may jointly agree that certain items may be donated (e.g., those items that do not sell at an estate sale).

Stephanie Carter, Attorney at Law, Draneas & Huglin, P.C., 4004 Kruse Way Place, Suite 200,
Lake Oswego, OR, (503) 496-5509, stephanie@draneaslaw.com

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No Comments by jeanblackburn on January 30, 2012
filed in Education for Senior Providers, Elder Law, End-of-Life Care, Family Caregivers, Financial Issues, Risks, Resources, Legislative and Political Issues, Senior Resource Alliance NW

Lack of Estate Planning Sets the Stage for Conflict

Post by Stephanie Carter, Attorney at Law, with Draneas & Huglin, P.C.

Member, Senior Resource Alliance Northwest

A surprising number of famous people have died without any form of will or trust to direct distribution of their estate.  This has often led to conflicts over the right to control the estate assets, including intellectual property, public image, and other money-producing assets.

For example, Martin Luther King Jr. didn’t have a will when he was unfortunately assassinated.  His estate, which is run now through a corporation established by his children, often struggles to determine what King’s wishes would be.  Decades after the civil rights leader’s death, his children are still trying to sort out matters related to his estate.

Reggae singer Bob Marley left no will when he died in 1981.  Over the past 30 years, the estate has been involved in multiple lawsuits.  Handling Marley’s estate was complicated by the fact that, although Marley died in Florida, he maintained his Jamaican citizenship.  Since Jamaica’s laws of intestacy were not as generous as Florida’s, his advisors decided to prepare an estate plan AFTER HIS DEATH that Marley’s widow then signed.

The Jamaican court sorted out the issue of the falsified will and removed Marley’s widow as administrator of the estate.  The court then had to resolve the issue of who had the right to use the singer’s name, likeness and image in commerce.  About 10 years after Marley’s death, the Jamaican Supreme Court decided that Marley’s heirs possessed this exclusive right.  The heirs include the widow and Marley’s children.  Unfortunately, the list of heirs does not incude siblings.  The estate is now suing Marley’s half-brother for using his image to promote a Miami music festival and restaurant, as he has done for many years.

Swedish author Steig Larsson, known for his Millennium series that includes The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo, also died without a will.  His estate passed to his heirs (brother and father with whom Larsson was not close) rather than his long-time partner, Eva Gabrielsson.  Gabrielsson has refused to release to the estate the partial fourth volume in the book series, has fought for her share of the apartment they shared, and control over Larsson’s literary estate, which she feels better prepared to administer than Larsson’s family  The dispute is still pending.

Although your estate may not be large, and you may not be famous, proper estate planning can help pass your estate to the next generation without the conflicts that occur when money and sentiment are involved.

Stephanie Carter, Attorney at Law, Draneas & Huglin, P.C., 4004 Kruse Way Place, Suite 200,
Lake Oswego, OR, (503) 496-5509, stephanie@draneaslaw.com

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No Comments by jeanblackburn on January 30, 2012
filed in Communication and Relationships, Education for Senior Providers, Elder Law, End-of-Life Care, Family Caregivers, Financial Issues, Risks, Resources, Legislative and Political Issues, Senior Care Reference Materials, Senior Resource Alliance NW, Uncategorized

Website Offers Help for Alzheimer’s Families

Blog Post by Home Instead Senior Care offices in the Portland Metro Area

In my six and a half years of providing caregiving services to seniors at home, I have supported many families affected by Alzheimer’s disease as they struggle to understand and cope with the changes the disease brings to their senior loved ones. My desire is always to help the families know that while their journey will test their emotional and physical stamina, they are not alone and that help is available.

The families I have observed who were most centered in facing Alzheimer’s disease were the ones who had an understanding of the nature of the disease and who sought for and found emotional support through peer groups or professionals.

Because knowledge and understanding are so imperative for families coping with Alzheimer’s, I am pleased to refer you to an excellent online resource: http://www.helpforalzheimersfamilies.com.

The site answers questions such as -

  • What is the difference between Alzheimer’s disease & dementia?
  • What are the stages of Alzheimer’s and dementia?
  • Is Alzheimer’s inherited?

 

But it also goes beyond the basics to provide practical advice on topics such as  -

  • Capturing Memories for Someone with Alzheimer’s or Dementia
  • Alzheimer’s Conversation Tips
  • Creating a Memory Box

 

If you are a member of a family affected by Alzheimer’s disease, this site is for you. If you know a member of such a family, please do them a favor and point them to this thoughtful resource.

http://www.helpforalzheimersfamilies.com

 

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2 Comments by Mike Brunt on January 19, 2012
filed in Alzheimer's and Dementia, Clinical Insights for Elder Care, Communication and Relationships, Education for Senior Providers, Family Caregivers, Practical Tips and Resources

Dispute Over Estate of Stieg Larsson Highlights Importance of Estate Planning

Post by Stephanie Carter, Elder Law Attorney with Draneas & Huglin, P.C.

Member, Senior Resource Alliance Northwest

In November 2004, Stieg Larsson, Swedish writer and journalist, died suddenly of a heart attack.  Larsson became famous after his death through the posthumous publication of his Millennium Trilogy (“The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo,” “The Girl Who Played With Fire” and “The Girl Who Kicked the Hornet’s Nest”).  Today, these books have sold more than 20 million copies in 41 countries and have been made into movies.

Larsson lived for 32 years with the architect Eva Gabrielsson.  They never married; they had no children; and he did not leave a will.  Swedish law makes no provision for common-law marriage.  Under the Swedish law of intestacy, Larsson’s entire estate was inherited by his Father and Brother, from whom he was estranged.

This disposition of Larsson’s estate sparked a bitter dispute between Larsson’s Father, Brother and Eva Gabrielsson.  Gabrielsson claimed that Larsson’s Father and Brother Larsson “were never a part of our lives” and that they are unsuited to handling his estate–including the valuable copyrights.

Larsson’s former workplace, Expo, owns the computer on which is stored the partial manuscript for the fourth book in the Millennium series.  Larsson’s Father and Brother own the contents of the computer.   However, Gabrielsson currently is in possession of the computer and has so far refused to hand it over.

Negotiations between the parties began in November 2009, but were broken off the following month when Gabrielsson announced she had declined a ”settlement” offer of about 2 million euros from Larsson’s estate (which is now valued in the tens of millions of euros).  The dispute remains unresolved.

 

Practical Application Under Oregon Law

The situation described above is unfortunately all too common.  The outcome under Oregon law would be similar to that of Sweden in this context. If a person dies with no will, the deceased person’s probate estate wil pass to members of his or her family in the order of priority listed in the statute.  If assets like bank accounts, certificate of deposit, and life insurance list beneficiaries, the asset will pass to the listed beneficiary.  If no beneficiary is listed, the asset becomes a part of the probate estate.

The problem also arises when a deceased person signs estate planning documents, but never updates them and does not regularly (every 3-5 years) check the beneficiary designations on assets that do not pass by will or trust.

It is very difficult when I have to tell a client that he or she will not share in a loved one’s estate because of outdated documents.  Do you have estate planning in place?  If so, how long has it been since you updated it?

Stephanie Carter, Draneas & Huglin, P.C., 4004 Kruse Way Place, Suite 200,
Lake Oswego, OR, (503) 496-5509, Stephanie@draneaslaw.com

 

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No Comments by conniemulligan on October 20, 2011
filed in Alzheimer's and Dementia, Baby Boomer Age Wave, Education for Senior Providers, Elder Law, Financial Issues, Risks, Resources, Legislative and Political Issues, Senior Care Reference Materials, Senior Resource Alliance NW

The Future of Technology in Senior Care by Intel and GE

The Future of Technology in Senior Care

Byline: Shannon McIntyre, Communications Manager, Intel-GE Care Innovations™

 

Today, we stand at the precipice of opportunity.  We have spent centuries treating people’s health only at times of crisis, relying exclusively on hospitals and clinics to manage care, excluding family caregivers from the heart of healthcare coordination where they belong.  We have ignored the importance that wellness and social connectivity can play in keeping a population healthy and happy.  We have denied the role that homes and communities can – and should – play in our overall healthcare system.

 

There are numerous studies out there that reveal the importance of keeping older adults connected with friends and loved ones.  According to the Public Library of Science Medicine, loneliness, as a health risk factor, is twice as detrimental as being obese, and equal to the risk of smoking cigarettes and alcoholism.[1] Less frequent participation in social activities is associated with a more rapid rate of motor decline in old age.[2] And over an average of five years, seniors who were the most socially active experienced only one-fourth the rate of cognitive decline compared to those with the lowest levels of social activity.[3]

 

Technology should be harnessed to give people confidence to live independently, wherever they want to call home.  It has the potential to connect millions of people and build relationships that never could have been made before.  We see this already through well-established technology systems such as Facebook, Skype, YouTube, Twitter, and dozens more – yet little emphasis has been made on how similar programs can help seniors overcome the loneliness and isolation that so many of them experience.

 

One example of a solution that was developed specifically to address this need is Intel-GE Care Innovations™ Connect, a new solution from the joint venture between GE and Intel Corporation.  Care Innovations™ Connect is a new wellness communications tool and social networking hub designed to address social isolation in older adults.  It includes an easy-to-use digital device for the senior’s residence that offers wellness surveys that communicate back to professional caregivers, brain fitness games (e.g. trivia game, card matching game), medication compliance reminders, residential community information, and simple social networking tools.

 

Connect is based on a decade of senior focused research and has been rigorously user tested with seniors and caregivers.  For seniors, personalization, a friendly touch screen with large icons and text helps them quickly integrate Connect into their daily routines.  The system also includes an online interface for the professional caregiver to securely access their residents’ wellness data, enabling them to respond immediately to issues.

 

Care Innovations also offers a variety of other tools to help seniors live independently: the Care Innovations™ Guide, a next-generation remote health management solution that connects patients and healthcare professionals; GE QuietCare®, an advanced motion sensor technology that learns the daily living patterns of senior community residents; and the Intel® Reader, a mobile device that transforms printed text to the spoken word for those with reading-based disabilities or impaired vision.

 

At the heart of all these initiatives is the importance of supporting a spectrum of healthy living from wellness and independence on-the-go to managing serious chronic illnesses.  Aging must be viewed in a more positive light, and we have the responsibility to support new innovations and solutions that can help support these great generations.

 

Copyright ©2011 Intel-GE Care Innovations LLC. All rights reserved.  Care Innovations and the Care Innovations logo are trademarks of Intel-GE Care Innovations LLC in the United States and other countries. QuietCare is a registered trademark of Intel-GE Care Innovations LLC.  Intel and the Intel corporate logo are trademarks of Intel Corporation in the United States and other countries, used under license.  GE and the GE Monogram are trademarks of General Electric Company in the United States and other countries, used under license.  *All other third-party trademarks are the properties of their respective owners.  Any use of the trademarks of Intel-GE Care Innovations LLC (and its related companies) is prohibited without express written permission.

[3] Journal of the International Neuropsychological Society (http://tinyurl.com/3szfzkr)

 

No Comments by Mike Brunt on August 23, 2011
filed in Clinical Insights for Elder Care, Communication and Relationships, Education for Senior Providers, Family Caregivers, Isolation and Depression, Technology, Equipment, and Devices

Senior Nutrition and Mealtime – Video

Blog Post by Home Instead Senior Care offices in the Portland Metro Area

In this video, the first of a five-part series, Certified Senior Advisor Mary Alexander, from Home Instead Senior Care®, discusses senior nutrition and the benefits of mealtime companionship. This series emphasizes important nutritional considerations for seniors, highlights some of the challenges seniors face when trying to maintain a healthy diet, and suggests ways to make mealtime more enjoyable.

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No Comments by Mike Brunt on August 18, 2011
filed in Clinical Insights for Elder Care, Communication and Relationships, Education for Senior Providers, Family Caregivers, Isolation and Depression, Senior Nutrition and Health
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At Home Instead Senior Care, we provide non-medical services to senior citizens in their own homes or apartments. Our services include companionship, light housekeeping, meal preparation, medication reminders, escorting to appointments, personal care, and dementia care. We help seniors maintain their independence and help them stay safe, healthy, and happy at home, wherever home may be.

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