Answers For Elders Radio Network

When qualifications are met, the Department of Veterans Affairs rates the level of disability, from 0 to 100 in increments of 10. The money received is based on that level. Elder law attorney Jim Koewler joins Suzanne to talk about the money paid out for VA Compensation. A single, 100% disabled veteran would qualify for $3,332.06/month in 2022, whereas for a married veteran the level is $3,517.84/month. A person's rating level can be appealed, and the money is adjusted for cost of living each December. On top of Compensation, a special monthly compensation can also be paid, and the money varies. As of 2022, based on the level of difficulty, Compensation rates for surviving spouses is a maximum of $1,437.66/month. An additional $305.28/month is available if the veteran was totally disabled due to a service-related ailment for eight years. They qualify for an additional $306/month for two years after the veteran's death if they have minor children, plus $356.16/month additional per minor child. If the spouse qualifies for Aid & Attendance, they qualify for an additional $356.16/month or $166.85/month if the spouse is housebound. You can see slides from this presentation on the YouTube video of this podcast. Learn more at http://www.protectingseniors.com or email Jim at [email protected] omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Elder law attorney Jim Koewler joins Suzanne to talk about qualifying for the federal program known as VA Compensation. There is also a Compensation program for surviving family members left behind when a veteran has died during their active service time or training in the military. There is no requirement for having to serve during wartime. There is special monthly compensation for a veteran or a surviving spouse, child, or parent who has certain disabilities or needs help with at least two activities of daily living: eating, walking, bathing, getting in and out of a bed/chair, cleaning up after going to the bathroom, grooming, dressing. When qualifications are met, the Department of Veterans Affairs rates the level of disability, from 0 to 100 in increments of 10, which is up to the case manager. If the rating is 0, it was still established to be related to a service-related injury, and if the disability worsens later in life, you just have to demonstrate that it's worse, and the level could be raised. You can see slides from this presentation on the YouTube video of this podcast. Learn more at http://www.protectingseniors.com or email Jim at [email protected] omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If someone in active military service is injured or becomes ill, or has some prior injury or illness exacerbated by their service, and later in life it results in a disability, then they're entitled to compensation. Elder law attorney Jim Koewler joins Suzanne to talk about the benefits of this federal program run by the Department of Veterans Affairs. Compensation is available to certain veterans and certain surviving veteran family members. VA has a program Congress called Pension, in which a veteran or spouse qualifies, for serving in the military during a time of war, and who now need more health services than they can afford, if you qualify for Pension and you also need help with Activities of Daily Living, they can get Aid & Attendance on top of Pension. If you get Compensation, and also need help with Activities of Daily Living, you can also get Aid & Attendance on top of Compensation. This is a disability program, not limited to people who served during a time of war the way that VA Pension is. Medical and personnel records are very important to show the disability occurring now is connected to something that goes back to their time in the military. Before going into further details, Jim revisits some items he discussed about Pension in earlier podcasts, in particular accreditation and discharge papers. You'll want to request a copy of the discharge papers that the VA will see. For people have a dishonorable discharge, they may be able to get it changed. You can see slides from this presentation on the YouTube video. Learn more at http://www.protectingseniors.com or email Jim at [email protected] omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On behalf of MorningStar of Beaverton, Suzanne speaks with resident and veteran Nick Hanks, who served in the United States Air Force for 20 years. MorningStar of Beaverton is located at 14475 SW Barrows Rd, Beaverton, OR 97007. Learn more at their website or call (503) 966-5997.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Suzanne joins community relations associate Jasmine Sablan Taitano, an ambassador for MorningStar of Beaverton, in Beaverton, OR. Jasmine grew up in a culture that respects and honors elders. When people visit and she gives them tours, she says they appreciate the welcoming staff and tell her that the atmosphere feels very homey and genuine. MorningStar is dedicated to providing carefree retirement years and creating a true home for their residents with a lifestyle of comfort, wellness and community. Though MorningStar is new to Beaverton, their team is highly experienced in serving seniors, understanding how to provide residents with a quality of life other assisted living communities simply cannot match. MorningStar of Beaverton is located at 14475 SW Barrows Rd, Beaverton, OR 97007. Learn more at their website or call (503) 966-5997.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Suzanne joins assistant director of life enrichment Jeanice Harrington at MorningStar of Happy Valley, a senior living community outside of Portland, Oregon. Today they're talking about how to improve quality of life and bring joy to senior living residents at MorningStar every day. One of Jeanice's favorite activities is leading an in-house Bible study hour with the community on Thursday mornings. It's an inclusive program for people of all faiths and backgrounds. They read a chapter per week, then discuss how it applies to our life today and what we can get out of it. She researches ahead of time to gear the conversation to the residents and what they're going through in their stage of life, and really make it personal for them. As we age, we look for connections that have more meaning in our lives. If you or a loved one is considering moving to a senior living community, come to one of their Bible studies. A lot of residents also invite their family members to come. MorningStar of Happy Valley is located at 14391 SE Princeton Village Way, Happy Valley, OR 97015. Learn more about MorningStar of Happy Valley at their website at or call (503) 433-8668.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Encore Creativity provides arts and opportunities for those 55 and older through Encore Chorale and other programs. Encore University has a voice class, musicianship classes, even a drawing class. Conductor Dr. Natalie Lerch joins Suzanne to talk about the Encore Chorale of Redmond. With the choir, there's no audition. Just come and sing, everyone's welcome. When you show up for rehearsal, you'll be checked in, encouraged to join, and then get together to have introductions and meet each other in a casual atmosphere. Then they'll talk about posture, do some breathing warmups, hand out packets of music, and then you start learning music right away. You can pick the part you want to sing, the part you feel comfortable singing. This is an opportunity to bring more joy to your life. It's easy, it's fun, and it's something that we all deserve. Encore Chorale of Redmond meets Thursdays from 2 to 3:30 p.m. at The Church of the Holy Cross at 11526 162nd Ave NE, Redmond, WA 98052. Learn more about Dr. Lerch, Encore Creativity, Encore Chorales, and The Church of the Holy Cross.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Encore Creativity for Older Adults is coming to the greater Puget Sound area. Conductor Dr. Natalie Lerch joins Suzanne to talk about Encore's program in Seattle. Since receiving her DMA from the Eastman School of Music, Dr. Lerch has taught voice, diction, repertoire, pedagogy, chorus, chamber singers, chamber ensemble, opera and musical theater workshop, ear training, piano for voice teachers, and musicianship at Cornish College of the Arts. Singing is about bringing the joy of doing it. Dr. Lerch will be starting the Encore Chorale of Redmond, meeting Thursdays from 2 to 3:30 p.m. at The Church of the Holy Cross in Redmond to share music. If you want to sing, join them. Beginners are welcome. You'll learn how to match pitch, learn how to listen, and how to blend. The church is at 11526 162nd Ave NE, Redmond, WA 98052. Learn more about Dr. Lerch, Encore Creativity, Encore Chorales, and The Church of the Holy Cross.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Suzanne shares her personal story about chorale singing at the time she lost her father. The sense of community from her choir helped prevent her from becoming isolated, supporting one another, a group that held her up and embraced her. There is so much grief with seniors dealing with transitions, letting go of their homes, or perhaps lost someone during the pandemic. Joshua Vickery, CEO of Encore Creativity for Older Adults, joins Suzanne to talk about similar stories by members of the group. The power of music, being part of something bigger than yourself, transports you to another place away from those things that might be hurting you, or causing you stress or anxiety. Learn more at their website.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Encore Creativity for Older Adults is the nation's largest choral organization for adults over the age of 55. They are just now coming to the greater Seattle area. Encore Creativity is a chorale celebration, bringing seniors together to sing and express themselves. Joshua Vickery, CEO of Encore Creativity, and local conductor Dr. Natalie Lerch join Suzanne to talk about the program. Based in Maryland, Encore has 15 Chorales and 6 Encore ROCKS rock & roll choruses in the metropolitan Baltimore-Washington area, as well as a chorale in New York City. Encore's newest program is the Sentimental Journey Singers (SJS) for individuals with early-stage Alzheimer's or other memory impairment. Encore has two SJS locations in Virginia. Through their Affiliate Program, they also have chorales in California, Ohio, and Pennsylvania. Encore singers number nearly 2,000 across the country. Encore is an IRS 501(c)(3) nonprofit tax exempt organization. Learn more at their website.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If you're applying for Medicaid, what happens if they say you have "too much income?" Elder Law Attorney Jim Koewler joins Suzanne to discuss this interesting scenario. You would need to seek a lawyer, set up a qualified income trust, called a "Miller trust," and then you have to use that trust every month, in order to even qualify for Medicaid. Income is a monthly event, so watch your state's rules, which can be very complicated. Learn more at http://www.protectingseniors.com or email Jim at [email protected]. Lead image: courtesy of Pexels/Rodnae ProductionsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If you are a married couple, what happens to your income as a Medicaid applicant? Elder Law Attorney Jim Koewler joins Suzanne to answer this question. They must be married; some states recognize common law marriage, others not. The income of the well spouse does not get to be used under Medicaid rules to pay the expenses of the ill spouse. That doesn't mean that a nursing home might not try. If the ill spouse has more income than the well spouse, things get complicated — the ill spouse may have to share some of their income to the well spouse to use. If the well spouse's housing costs are greater than "average," they may get to have more of the ill spouse's income. Learn more at http://www.protectingseniors.com or email Jim at [email protected]. Lead image: courtesy of Pexels/Marcus AureliusSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If you are a single Medicaid applicant, what happens to your income? Almost every dollar is accounted for in the Medicaid rules. Elder Law Attorney Jim Koewler joins Suzanne to talk about where can you expect that money to go. Talking in generalities, regarding income for a single person, a person's income is used first, before Medicaid dollars. There are three places where money is usually going to go: 1) your personal needs allowance (spending money); 2) rent if you're in an assisted living community; and 3) health insurance premiums. Whatever's left goes to pay the costs of care so Medicaid doesn't have to. Learn more at http://www.protectingseniors.com or email Jim at [email protected] omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Elder Law Attorney Jim Koewler joins Suzanne to talk about how Medicaid and other long-term care situations handle retirees who continue to receive income the rest of their lives. Income payments can come from Social Security retirement benefits, disability benefits, pension payments, VA pension payments, annuity payments, or income from rental properties. Learn more at http://www.protectingseniors.com or email Jim at [email protected] omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Suzanne joins executive director Janet Sederquist at Kirkland, Washington’s new MorningStar of Kirkland to talk about this over55 independent living community. The process of elder care can be a daunting, overwhelming task, whether for yourself or a loved one, and their doors are always open to help. Visit MorningStar of Kirkland's website or call 425-979-5626 to learn more.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Suzanne joins concierge Lolly Bruschere at Kirkland, Washington’s new MorningStar of Kirkland senior living community. As a faith-based organization, MorningStar puts humanity, faith, and ethics first. Everyone is welcome regardless of their personal faith, and residents are treated like family. The lifestyle focuses on quality of life, so you don't really have to leave to enjoy life, though the community is also in a great location near restaurants and a grocery store. There's a theater hall, dining hall, pool, gym, and bistro. Saturdays they have board games, cards, and TED Talks. Visit MorningStar of Kirkland's website or call 425-979-5626 to learn more.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Suzanne joins director of hospitality Karin Hirsch at Kirkland, Washington’s new MorningStar of Kirkland senior living community. Karin is responsible for resident satisfaction, so she knows the families and residents to serve them best. She coordinates their move-in process, connects them with other residents, makes sure they're happy, gets them involved in activities, and acts as their point of contact for any needs they have. Visit MorningStar of Kirkland's website or call 425-979-5626 to learn more.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Suzanne joins community relations director Jennifer Graham at Kirkland, Washington’s new MorningStar of Kirkland senior living community. If you're thinking of downsizing, consider this new over-55 independent living community. The vibe here is like having a daily vacation, or being on a cruise ship. The location is excellent, near walking trails, walking distance from Fred Meyer grocery, and there's a dog park a block away. It's a modern take on the Pacific Northwest. There's a workout gym, hair salon, indoor pool, fresh dining, movie theater, and more. They have a primary care physician, dentist and urgent care dispatch help that will come if you don't want to wait in a waiting room because of COVID. Visit MorningStar of Kirkland's website or call 425-979-5626 to learn more.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Suzanne joins Community Relations & Marketing Director Tanya Hilson to talk about the The Cottages of Renton, a CarePartners Senior Living community just for seniors who have dementia and Alzheimer's. The layout is unique. Each Cottage opens and exits into an expansive but secure outside interior courtyard allowing residents the freedom to safely stroll, exercise and enjoy open spaces among landscaped walkways and surroundings. The memory care community offers three small, cozy cottages, each with a maximum of 20 residents. This design concept allows them to provide senior loved ones with personal attention they deserve in a familiar, intimate, calm and safe environment. Each cottage is self-contained with its own kitchen, dining room, laundry, living room area with fireplace and private resident rooms. Learn more about the Cottages of Renton on their website.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Suzanne joins direct of nursing Melanie Caoagas for the grand opening weekend at Vineyard Park of Covington in Covington, WA. Melanie oversees the physical health and wellness of the residents: giving them medications, keeping communications with doctors and families, customizing their care plans, and keeping residents informed. The community's assisted living options offer personalized assistance, supportive services and compassionate care in a professionally managed, carefully designed, retirement community setting. It's for seniors who can no longer live on their own, but don’t need 24-hour, complex medical supervision. They have a move-in special: if you move in during August, your deposit is waived. Learn more about Vineyard Park of Covington on their website or call 253-480-7050.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Suzanne joins Community Relations Director Keith Roberts at Vineyard Park of Covington in Covington, WA to talk about the details of assisted living. For example, if mom is fine but dad needs help, they have a bonded pairs program where they can come and live together. The care can be provided for dad, mom can live independently, and we'll have an individualized care plan specifically tailored to dad's needs. And if dad ever needed memory care, and it started to not be safe for him to stay here at Vineyard Park, we could literally move him across the parking lot and he can stay with us in memory care as well. She can go visit him whenever she wants, plus she can take him out for activities on this side. There are so many options... if she needed to go to the grocery store, or just needed a little break, she can bring him back. There aren't many options like that in the state of Washington. Learn more about Vineyard Park of Covington on their website or call 253-480-7050.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Suzanne joins Community Relations Director Keith Roberts for the grand opening weekend at Vineyard Park of Covington in Covington, WA. Assisted living is a whole new ball game these days because you have so many amenities: you get the theater, you get the activities, you get the best of everything. Being able to come into a community, know you're going to be cared for, have activities, be able to socialize with folks who are on the same journey as you, make new friends, establish new close bonds, and have a good experience and live with dignity for the rest of your life. Learn more about Vineyard Park of Covington on their website or call 253-480-7050.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Suzanne joins activities director Chelsea Hansen for the grand opening weekend at Vineyard Park of Covington in Covington, WA. All sorts of things are happening during the grand opening, with various stations set up throughout the building showcasing events, activities, food, and live music with a Hawaiian theme. Vineyard Park has a host of clubs, plus Bingo, karaoke, a weekly social event, movie night, a monthly birthday dinner, men's poker night, and ladies night, with family as well as residents welcome. Learn more about Vineyard Park of Covington on their website or call 253-480-7050.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Elena Cuevas, Regional VP of Sales, joins Suzanne to talk about what it's like to live at MorningStar. They talk about independent and assisted living at MorningStar Senior Living's SilverLake community near Everett, Washington. Learn more about MorningStar Senior Living at SilverLake at their website.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As a way of saying thank you to their veterans, MorningStar Senior Living will be having a special salute for Veterans this July. Elena Cuevas, Regional VP of Sales, joins Suzanne to talk about MorningStar's veterans support. They offer $100/month off rent for veterans and their spouses, and MorningStar also partners with Outerlife Financial to provide additional support through access to Veterans Aid and Attendance programs. When you're with your peers, you adjust better to a senior living community. Learn more about MorningStar Senior Living at SilverLake at their website. Schedule a personalized tour at 503-855-0818.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Elena Cuevas, Regional VP of Sales, joins Suzanne to talk about MorningStar Senior Living community in SilverLake near Everett, Washington. In this segment, Elena talks about MorningStar's origins and what makes it special with its faith-based focus on ethics and values. They create enriching environments that residents want to participate with. Learn more about MorningStar Senior Living at their website. Learn more about MorningStar Senior Living at SilverLake at their website. Schedule a personalized tour at 503-855-0818.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

MorningStar Senior Living community in SilverLake near Everett, Washington is having a reopening special weekend that celebrates veterans. Elena Cuevas, Regional VP of Sales, returns to introduce the program with Suzanne. July 7-9, from 1-4, they're introducing renovations while appreciating veterans. Their bistro will be themed for West Point, the activity room will be the Colorado Air Force station with some giveaways and collateral, model apartments themed for Hawaii, then downstairs to the theater room which is themed for California's Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton with glitz and Hollywood glamour, then the last station in the patio area is themed for Naval Station Everett with BBQ and Northeastern delicacies. Learn more about MorningStar Senior Living at SilverLake at their website.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Kelley Smith at CarePartners Senior Living joins Suzanne to talk more about the Bill of Rights of senior living. After reviewing the first 16 rights, they talk about the final four of the 20 rights. 17. To be free of retaliation after they have exercised their rights provided by law or rule. 18. To have a safe and home-like environment. 19. To be free of discrimination in regards to race, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, or religion. 20. To receive proper notification if requested to move out of the facility or community, and be required to move out only for reasons stated in the 50-state assisted living facilities law. Learn more about CarePartners at their website.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Suzanne talks more about the 20 Bill of Rights for senior living residents with Kelley Smith at CarePartners Senior Living, a code of conduct that all senior living communities have to follow by law. Residents have a right to their money, to be involved and have access to what's theirs. If they think their care plan isn't being followed, or a caregiver is being rude, they have a right to speak their mind without fearing repercussions. 12. To manage personal/financial affairs unless legally restricted. 13. To have access to, and participate in, social activities. 14. To be encouraged and assisted in exercising your rights as a citizen. 15. To be free of any written contract or agreement language with the facility or community that purports to waive their rights or the facility's liability for negligence. 16. To voice grievances and suggest changes in policies and services to either staff or outside representatives without fear of retaliation. Learn more about CarePartners at their website.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Kelley Smith at CarePartners Senior Living joins Suzanne to talk about the Bill of Rights for senior living residents. The Bill of Rights has 20 items, spelling out basic rights to be yourself, to not restrain you, to feel safe in your home, and to not feel like they are being taken advantage of financially. As a matter of privacy, some communities do not dispense medications in the dining room. In this segment, Suzanne and Kelley discuss items 6-11. 6. To be free from neglect, financial exploitation, and verbal/mental/physical/sexual abuse. 7. To receive services in a manner that protects privacy and dignity. 8. To have prompt access to review all of their records and be given photocopies. Photocopies must be promptly provided but in no case require more than two business days, excluding the weekend and holidays. 9. To have medical and other records kept confidential except as otherwise provided by law. 10. To associate and communicate privately with any individual of choice, to send and receive personal mail unopened, and to have reasonable access to the private use of a telephone. 11. To be free from physical restraints and inappropriate use of psychoactive medications. Learn more about CarePartners at their website.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Suzanne joins Kelley Smith at CarePartners Senior Living to learn about the 20 Bill of Rights for Senior Residents. One reason people are hesitant to move into assisted living is a fear of losing autonomy — they believe someone's going to tell them when to get up, when to go to bed, when to eat dinner — and who wants to live like that? Every community with senior living type of license has a resident Bill of Rights. In this segment, Suzanne and Kelley discuss the first five rights: To be treated with dignity and respect. To be given informed choices and opportunities to select or refuse service and accept responsibility for the consequences. To participate in their initial care service plan and any revisions or updates at the time changes occur. To receive information about the method for evaluating their service needs and assessing the costs for their services provided. To exercise their individual rights that do not infringe upon others or the rights or safety of others. Learn more about CarePartners at their website.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Athira Pharma has a drug trial right now for patients that potentially could treat people with any type of degenerative brain disease. It is being tested now with people who have Alzheimer's disease in mid stages and also with people who have Lewy body disease and Parkinson's disease. The medication speeds up thinking and processing and a long-term effect of increasing connections between brain cells. Suzanne Newman talks with Dr. Michael Mega, Director of the Center for Cognitive Health in Portland, Oregon. The center helps patients maximize their cognitive function as they cope with Alzheimer's disease and disorders of thinking. To participate in a trial like this, they need to have a study partner, somebody who is with them for at least 10 hours a week to observe how they function throughout the day. A close friend, adult child or spouse. Also they must be stable on their medications. Their study partner has noted thinking or memory changes in them suggesting the possibility that they may not be able to live safely on their own. The trial is blinded, so there is a 33% chance that during the six-month trial the would get a placebo, or a low-dose version, or a high-dose version of the medication. After the six-month trial, they can continue and be guaranteed to get the hi-dose version of the medicine. Learn more at the Center for Cognitive Health. Visit shapetrial.com to learn about a trial for Parkinson's Disease Dementia. Visit lift-adtrial.com to learn about the LIFT-AD Alzheimer's Disease trial. You can also learn about trials taking place at the Center for Cognitive Health in Portland. Brought to you courtesy of Athira Pharma.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This segment focuses on medical diagnoses for Alzheimer's disease, Lewy body dementia and Parkinson's. The field is rapidly changing. We now have biological markers for Alzheimer's: mis-folded proteins in the brain is the common thread for all degenerative diseases, including Parkinson's disease, Lou Gehrig's disease, and frontotemporal degeneration Pick's Disease. Being able to visualize these in PET scans (Positron Emission Tomography) lets us make a definitive diagnosis 15 years before someone begins having memory problems. Suzanne Newman talks with Dr. Michael Mega, Director of the Center for Cognitive Health in Portland, Oregon. The center helps patients maximize their cognitive function as they cope with Alzheimer's disease and disorders of thinking. Blood tests are also being developed to measure the amount of these proteins in the brain that leak out through cerebral-spinal fluid into the blood, which will identify people on the Alzheimer's trajectory. Many types of treatments are being developed to stop the mis-folding and deposition of plaque in the brain, as well as the mis-folding and deposition of tangles in the brain. The goal is that people would be able to take a blood test during their yearly physical, and if they're identified as being on the trajectory, we could then institute disease-modifying drugs to keep them from getting Alzheimer's if they haven't developed memory problems. Lewy body dementia and Parkinson's look the same in terms of the mid-folded proteins. It's where the proteins are deposited that produces different manifestations of these diseases. If these proteins are deposited on the brain stem or subcortical structures, and produce damage, those manifest as slowness in moving, tremors, as well as gait and balance difficulty. If they proteins are primarily deposited on cortical structures as well as the brain stem, that produces more cognitive issues, resulting in problem-solving difficulties, visual-spacial issues, hallucinations, as well as fluctuations in attention. If they have three of the following — a REM-behavioral sleep disturbance where you act out your dreams during your sleep, visual hallucinations while awake, fluctuations in attention or alertness, and neuroleptic sensitivity — as well as a family member who says the person cannot safely live alone, we would diagnose Lewy body dementia. That's different for Parkinson's patients, where only 50 percent will develop a thinking problem where their family says they no longer safe. Most patients don't have thinking problems in the beginning stages of the disease. So the clinical distinction is stark even though the pathology is due to the same mis-folded protein. Learn more at the Center for Cognitive Health. Visit shapetrial.com to learn about a trial for Parkinson's Disease Dementia. Visit lift-adtrial.com to learn about the LIFT-AD Alzheimer's Disease trial. You can also learn about trials taking place at the Center for Cognitive Health in Portland. Brought to you courtesy of Athira Pharma.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Suzanne Newman is joined by Dr. Michael Mega, Director of the Center for Cognitive Health in Portland, Oregon. The center helps patients maximize their cognitive function as they cope with Alzheimer's disease and disorders of thinking. Dr. Mega answers: How do you tell the difference between normal age-related forgetfulness and the beginnings of Alzheimer's? When we go the grocery store and have a shopping list in mind, but can't recall the last few items because we left the written list at home, that's normal. But Alzheimer's disease has a distinct memory issue: a failure to learn new information. If you repeatedly ask the same question, and are unable to learn the answer no matter how many times you hear it, that is abnormal. A quick test that is very sensitive is naming as many animals as you can think of in a minute. Most 75 year olds with at least a high-school education can name 18 different animals or more. It's a very good test of language function and the speed of processing, in terms of searching the lexicon of words in our brain. We also test by giving people a list of random words and them asking them to repeat the list. A normal 85 year old will come up with seven of those words. If it’s less than three, that's abnormal. Even in our 80s or 90s, we should be able to learn new information, even if we can be forgetful or have problems retrieving that information. For dementia to be a factor, we ask a family member whether their function is so impaired that they are no longer safe living by themselves. The failure to be able to live safely independently is the definition of dementia. Dementia is not a disease, it's a functional state. Being able to do our shopping, pay bills, not burn down the house, and keep the shysters at bay is normal. Dementia can come from many sources: vitamin deficiencies, stroke, tumors, head trauma, Alzheimer's disease, or Parkinson's disease. It can be caused by a reversible thyroid problem, or a reversible nutritional deficiency. Learn more at the Center for Cognitive Health. Visit shapetrial.com to learn about a trial for Parkinson's Disease Dementia. Visit lift-adtrial.com to learn about the LIFT-AD Alzheimer's Disease trial. You can also learn about trials taking place at the Center for Cognitive Health in Portland. Brought to you courtesy of Athira Pharma. Brought to you courtesy of Athira Pharma .See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This special live event celebrates the June 18 opening of MorningStar Senior Living in Hillsboro, Oregon. In this segment, Suzanne Newman joins Camillo Hart, Community Relations Assistant, to talk about the opening of this vital, fresh, fun community. Independent living is for people who no longer want to cook, take care of laundry, dishes, and other chores. It's really a lifestyle choice for people over 55, they have so many options, and it's a carefree lifestyle, like a cruise ship on land, with so many opportunities for things to do. It's living authentically, letting you be yourself, while sharing a sense of community. Schedule a tour! For folks outside the Portland, Oregon area, MorningStar has communities from the midwest through the Pacific states. Find a community near you at MorningStar Senior Living.com.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This special live event celebrates the June 18 opening of MorningStar Senior Living in Hillsboro, Oregon. In this segment, Suzanne Newman joins Emily Hoover, Life Enrichment Director, to talk about the opening. Hoover oversees activities and events at the community, working with residents to create events they love and want to participate in and engage in, and finding the things that people love and help them grow their passions, whether it's something new or something they've done for a really long time. She also helps with private events like book clubs, garden clubs, Bible studies, and hopes to build a community outreach club that works with food banks, local schools to have a volunteer program. It's important for seniors to have social interactions because our brains need successful community stimulation, and it’s important to have that purpose in their life and feel loved while doing it. Schedule a tour! For folks outside the Portland, Oregon area, MorningStar has communities from the midwest through the Pacific states. Find a community near you at MorningStar Senior Living.com.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This special live event celebrates the June 18 opening of MorningStar Senior Living in Hillsboro, Oregon. In this segment, Suzanne Newman joins Matt Ryan, Executive Director of MorningStar. Ryan says everything they do comes from the heart, that it's everything that they tell you it is. He just did a tour with a family member who lost her husband recently and is going through a lot of change, facing transitions, and needs help figuring that all out, and we went on a tour. “When you have somebody who can give you a hug and tell you that you answered a lot of their questions and helped them sort out things, you know that you're making a difference. That is why I love this job.” Schedule a tour! For folks outside the Portland, Oregon area, MorningStar has communities from the midwest through the Pacific states. Find a community near you at MorningStar Senior Living.com.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This special live event celebrates the June 18 opening of MorningStar Senior Living in Hillsboro, Oregon. In this segment, Suzanne Newman joins Maurea Kyioi, the Business Office Manager, who hires staff and is in charge of billing. There's a misconception that a senior living environment like MorningStar is too expensive, but it's not really that expensive when you consider all of the amenities. You're not just renting a room, you're renting the whole building. Housekeeping services, laundry, pool, exercise room, restaurant meals, and utilities are all inclusive. Many over-55 people are sitting at home burdened with chores, maintenance, repairs, new roofs, and those things add up. From $3,600/month, MorningStar offers studios, one bedrooms and two bedrooms. Schedule a tour! For folks outside the Portland, Oregon area, MorningStar has communities from the midwest through the Pacific states. Find a community near you at MorningStar Senior Living.com.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This special live event celebrates the June 18 opening of MorningStar Senior Living in Hillsboro, Oregon. In this segment, Executive Chef/Dining Room Manager Darrin Bristol joins Suzanne Newman. Bristol finds it fulfilling and rewarding to to work in a senior living environment. At the end of the day, he makes the food he loves, but it has more meaning, and makes a difference. At this independent living community, he enjoys being able to create a restaurant-style experience in this "upscale retirement living" atmosphere that is similar to what you'd find in a hotel or country club restaurant. Just like a restaurant, they accommodate common special diets like gluten free or vegetarian. They don't offer a diabetic menu, but they can offer appropriate foods for a diabetic person to make those choices on their own. Specials keep it interesting for everyone, and works in meals that residents love. Schedule a tour! For folks outside the Portland, Oregon area, MorningStar has communities from the midwest through the Pacific states. Find a community near you at MorningStar Senior Living.com.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This special live event celebrates the June 18 opening of MorningStar Senior Living in Hillsboro, Oregon. In this segment, Maintenance Director Adam Ortega joins Suzanne Newman to talk about opening the brand new retirement community. He also helped open MorningStar’s Kirkland community, and talks about getting creative with helping senior residents make room for special collections, or knocking down walls — whatever helps them feel at home and help feed their passions when transitioning to senior living. People have a perception that they'll lose their freedom and identity in senior living, but that's not the case at MorningStar. Ortega handles everything from hanging TV sets, making extra shelves, adding closet systems, and more. Schedule a tour! For folks outside the Seattle area, MorningStar has communities from the midwest through the Pacific states. Find a community near you at MorningStar Senior Living.com.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Tracey Harvey from Cadence Living in Kent, Washington joins Suzanne Newman to talk about transitions to maintain health and vitality for our senior loved ones. Making a transition now, before a crisis or illness, puts more power and control into their equation. Active aging with key amenities helps seniors warm to the idea. Quality of life, vibrancy, vitality, and fitness are key focuses now, to manage wellness over illness in a holistic way. Stepping through and learning more about living in a community like this helps us stay engaged. Right now area seniors 60+ can join Cadence’s In-Tune Tuesdays fitness class. A move-in special — a founder's club membership — gives residents their birthday month free for two years, pet fees are waived, and the second person occupancy fee is waived the first year. Studio pricing starts at $3,150/month. Cadence at Kent-Meridian is located at 25035 104th Ave SE, Kent, WA 98030. Learn more at (253) 549-9300 or at their website.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

MorningStar Senior Living looks forward to the opening of a new community for the Greater Portland area in Hillsboro, Washington. Executive Director Matt Ryan and Vice President of Sales Development Jordana Jobanputra join Suzanne to talk about this brand new community. Learn more at the community’s website.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Foundational principles of wellness, part 7: Eating right, walking, movement, balance, using our core. It's more than lifting weights and exercise. So many seniors living alone don't eat right, can't cook or do the things that contribute to a good quality of life, and resort to leftovers, fast food and TV dinners. MorningStar Senior Living offers a diverse menu like you'd find in a restaurant, accommodated to particular needs of their residents to keep them healthy, and offering a well-balanced diet. Physical, occupational and speech therapy is available to all residents through a third-party, and exercise programs such as yoga, strength and balance, slim and fit, and others, aided by an onsite physical instructor. Recorded at MorningStar Senior Living at Silver Lake in Everett, Washington, Suzanne Newman and Elena Cuevas, Regional VP of Sales, talk about this foundational principles of wellness. Watch this segment on YouTube. Learn more at MorningStar's website.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Foundational principles of wellness, part 6: Knowledge, learning, growing, critical thinking, and challenging one's beliefs are honored at MorningStar Senior Living as part of intellectual wellness. Everyone is different, and getting together in groups to talk about current events and critical issues in the world in a respectful way engages and uses our minds. MorningStar also hosts book clubs to exercise mental muscles. Recorded at MorningStar Senior Living at Silver Lake in Everett, Washington, Suzanne Newman and Elena Cuevas, Regional VP of Sales, talk about this foundational principles of wellness. Watch this show on YouTube. Learn mo re at MorningStar's website.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Foundational principles of wellness, part 5: Recorded at MorningStar Senior Living at Silver Lake in Everett, Washington, Suzanne Newman continues her conversation with Elena Cuevas, Regional VP of Sales, about the foundational principles of wellness. Previous talks have focused on emotional wellness, being able to engage with others and feel good about our decisions; environmental wellness, having an aesthetically pleasing, inviting, safe and secure home; social wellness and relationships; and occupational wellness, which helps us derive a sense of purpose in our lives. This segment focuses on spiritual wellness — feeling connected to a higher power and a higher belief system — which brings ourselves closer to our core principles and beliefs, and how MorningStar Living brings out spiritual wellness in its residents. Learn more at MorningStar's website. Watch this segment on YouTube. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

MorningStarSenior Living's operations specialist John Jaeger joins Suzanne Newman to talk about MorningStar's corporate culture and higher purpose for helping communities through their various outreach programs. Transformation is possible, living a life of service serving seniors and others in their communities helps them as well as providing a sense of satisfaction and contentment. Learn more at the MorningStar Foundation website.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Morning Star Foundation manages various outreach programs locally and internationally. Casa Bernabé is an orphanage in Nicaragua, bordering Costa Rica in Central America. The country is the second poorest in the western hemisphere. The orphanage is in a town of 100,000 people with 70% unemployment, so even if an individual wanted a job, there's none to be had in this region of few resources, creating intense poverty. MorningStar built a new home for about 60 kids and helps enrich their lives. MorningStar Senior Living's operations specialist John Jaeger joins Suzanne Newman to talk about this program. Learn more at the Casa Bernabé website and the MorningStar Foundation website.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The MorningStar Foundation was founded in 2019 to serve local and international nonprofit organizations. They've partnered with Lifewater International, which is based out of the U.S. and operates in Ethiopia, Tanzania, Uganda and Cambodia to support safe water projects. MorningStar hosts a premier charity golf event fundraiser in Denver called Quench, which last year raised $120,000 for Lifewater's transformative projects. MorningStar Senior Living's operations specialist John Jaeger joins Suzanne Newman to talk about Lifewater and Quench. Learn more at lifewater.org. Visit Quench4life.com to register or sponsor this year's event on August 9.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

MorningStar Senior Living's operations specialist John Jaeger joins Suzanne Newman to talk about MorningStar's corporate culture, an organization that strives to make these the best years of their residents, bring them purpose, and to give back to their team members. Going beyond loving their residents is the MorningStar Foundation, established to offer support to philanthropic initiatives around the world and in local neighborhoods. Learn more at the MorningStar Foundation website.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Suzanne Newman joins Kelley Smith at CarePartners Senior Living to talk about CarePartners' commitment to community, being involving in the chamber of commerce, rotary club, food drives, the Alzheimer's Association, and other outreach. Learn more at their website.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.