Recently, a panel of experts discussed seniors aging in place sponsored by Larimer County Office on Aging and Seniors Blue Book Speaker Series at the Chilson Senior Center in Loveland. Office on Aging’s Linda Rumney and Blue Book CEO Oliver Herschel gave an overview of their organizations. Oliver introduced the panel of speakers. The panel included Michael Wilson, Owner of The Forge training program, Aaron Devendorf with Ascent Mobility, Keli Olsheshi with Edward Jones Investments, Peggy Sage with Independent Financial Mortgage Co, and Sarah Harlow with Home Instead Senior Care. Each speaker gave an overview of their company.
Panelists Aaron Devendorf, Keli Olsheski, Peggy Sage, Michael Wilson, & Sarah Harlow
Oliver asked the panel about how to prevent falls that injure many seniors each year. Michael responded with proper training that his company provides with various pattern movements helps seniors with better balancing techniques. Aaron recommended installing grab bars inside the residence and identifying unsafe areas with critical device updates.
A question on what financial strategies pay for healthcare services on a fixed income? Keli indicated Social Security only gave a 1.6% increase last year, but recommended having a Certified Financial Adviser review your personal finances to create a reasonable financial plan for different individuals with lower incomes.
Hershel asked the panel “What do you consider your home?” Sarah explained any place where you live is really your home and Home Instead provides non-medical healthcare for any type of residence.
A question was asked about what is a reverse mortgage? Peggy indicated reverse mortgages can help resolve many senior financial problems including downsizing at a critical age when home maintenance is costly for older homes and seniors cannot afford to stay in their homes on a limited income. She helps children and their parents by choosing the best reverse mortgage plan on providing additional income while the parents can still live in their homes or move to a more reasonable facility. The audience asked several questions about reverse mortgage (RM) fees. Peggy said there are certain RM fees that are more expensive such as some fees that don’t benefit the homeowner. Depending on the equity in the home, will depend on the fees and income to the owner. She indicated if a lender cannot explain their fees in detail, don’t do business with them. There are many lenders offering reverse mortgages with minimal fees.
Another audience question of what is the difference between home care and home healthcare? Sarah indicated that home healthcare organizations provide nursing capabilities with qualified medical personnel whereas home care provides qualified caregivers, who are given a 10-step matchmaking diagnosis on providing services for their customers. Another related question: does Medicare or Medicaid pay for home care services for seniors? Sarah responded no, but Home Instead only takes in private pay customers.
Another audience member asked what is the basics of fall prevention training for dementia friendly patients? Michael indicate yes with the proper diagnosis and the required training on exercise is the best course of action for fall prevention for dementia friendly patients.
Another audience question asked about tubs with cutouts designed for seniors? Aaron said tubs with cutouts can be modified for access, but sometimes better to replace with a better tub designed with the easy entrance door for seniors. Overall, lots of beneficial information was provided for the seniors and professional organizations serving seniors.