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A DIRECTORY FOR OLDER ADULTS
NAPA COUNTY
2015
15th Anniversary Edition! Get more out of a
MEDICARE HEALTH PLAN
than you ever thought possible.
KaISER PERmaNENTE SENIOR aDVaNTaGE (HmO)
Questions about Medicare or ready to enroll in a Kaiser P Just give me a call.
Photo Here
Kalil Macklin Kaiser Permanente Medicare Health Plan Sales Specialist
888-905-0555
TTY 711
kp.org/medicare
Kaiser Permanente is an HMO plan with a Medicare contract. Enrollment contract renewal. You must reside in the Kaiser Permanente Medicare health Kaiser Foundation Health Plan, Inc., 393 E. Walnut St., Pasadena, CA 91188-8 Y0043_N009370_CA accepted
Under no circumstance can a placement size be c altered due to the need to adhere to regulatory c If creative submitted is not at the correct specifi DO NOT RUN THE INSERTION. client:
Kaiser Permanente Medicare
file name: insertion date(s): description: size/color:
Y0043_N009370 KP Sales Agent Ad Half Page No S 8.5” x 5.5”; B&W; non-bleed
publication(s):
THIS SLUG DOES NOT PRINT
24 Hour Person Centered Care Private or Semi-Private Rooms
PINER’S Skilled Nursing Complete Therapy Services & Assisted PINER’S SkilledLiving Nursing Culinary Institute Trained Chef
An Eden Alternative Home (Edenalt.org) & Assisted Living
Warm, Exceptionally Friendly Staff 24 Hour PersonHome Centered Care An Eden Alternative (Edenalt.org)
PINER’S Skilled Nursing 24 Houror Person CenteredAve. Care Private Semi-Private Rooms 1800 Pueblo & Assisted Living Private or Semi-Private Rooms
Complete Therapy Services An Eden Alternative Home (Edenalt.org) RCFE #280100627 Complete Therapy Services
Culinary InstituteCare Trained Chef 24 Hour Person Centered
707-224-7925
Culinary Institute Trained Chef Private or Semi-Private Rooms Warm, Exceptionally Friendly Staff Warm,Therapy Exceptionally Complete ServicesFriendly Staff
1800 Pueblo Culinary Institute Trained Chef
Napa Family Owned & Operated
Ave.
1800 Pueblo Ave.
www.Piners.net
Warm, Exceptionally Friendly Staff RCFE #280100627 RCFE #280100627
PINER’S Welding Supply Napa Family Owned Napa Family Owned & Operated & Operated
Napa Family Owned PINER’S &PINER’S Operated
Welding Supply Welding Supply PINER’S Welding Supply
Medical, Industrial, Beverage & Winery Gases
1800 Pueblo Ave.
707-224-7925 Napa Ambulance 707-224-7925 707-224-7925 707-224-3123 www.Piners.net www.Piners.net RCFE #280100627
Non Emergency Medical Transport www.Piners.net Napa NapaAmbulance Ambulance 7 Days a week 8am to 8pm Napa707-224-3123 Ambulance 707-224-3123
Non 707-224-3123 Emergency Medical Non Emergency MedicalTransport Transport Days aMedical to 8pm Non Emergency Transport 77 Days a week week8am 8am to 8pm 7 Days a week 8am to 8pm
2405 Laurel St. 707-224-7922 Medical, Beverage Medical,Industrial, Industrial, Beverage Medical, Industrial, Beverage & Winery Gases
& &Winery Winery Gases Gases 2405 Laurel St. 707-224-7922 2405 LaurelSt. St. 707-224-7922 707-224-7922 2405 Laurel
PINER’S Medical Supply
S
PINER’S Medical Supply Mobility Specialists PINER’S Medical Supply
PINER’S Medical Scooters, Wheelchairs, Lift Chairs, Supply Mobility Specialists
Mobility Specialists SBath Safety Scooters, Lift Chairs, & Wheelchairs, Injury Supplies Mobility Specialists S Scooters, Wheelchairs, Lift Chairs, Safety & Injury Supplies S Scooters, Lift Chairs, BathBath SafetyWheelchairs, & Injury Supplies
Safety & Injury Supplies 907Bath Trancas Street 707-224-7921 907 Trancas Street 707-224-7921 907 Trancas Street 707-224-7921
Hearts that Matter Helping Families Create Paths to Healthy Aging Home Care or Assisted Living Options. Call today for the “heart that matters” in your life!
Bringing You Two Services Non-Medical Home Care
Assisted Living
Providing non- Medical In Home Care to residents of the Napa Valley has made Hearts That Matter the first choice for care. We are committed and dedicated to servicing the needs of seniors in the community, and o�er a wide range of care to ensure a better way of life and to help seniors maintain independence.
When living at home is no longer an option, one of our six-bed Assisted Living facilities will provide safe and friendly 24-hour care and assistance with all ADL (Activities of daily Living). A care plan is established specifically for the resident and altered as care needs change. “Age in place” and let the professionals come to you in the comfort of our home.
• Personal Care • Companionship • Meal Preparation and much more. Call for details.
• Dementia Care • Transportation • 24-hour awake sta� and much more. Call for details.
www.heartsthatmatter.com
707 252 7569
Located in Napa
License #286801547
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Table of Contents
Planning Activities................................................................7 Advance Health Directives....................................9 Affordable Housing................................................9 Attorneys..............................................................11 Congregate Meals...............................................11 Conservators/Trustee Services............................11 Consumer Advocacy............................................11 Counseling Services............................................11 Driving Classes....................................................12 Education.............................................................12 Estate & Financial Planning.................................12 Fall Prevention.....................................................13 Fiduciary & Trust Services...................................13 Food Assistance..........................................31 & 41 Health Insurance.................................................13 HICAP..................................................................13 Home Repair........................................................13 Home Repair Loans.............................................13 Independent Living..............................................13 Information and Assistance..................................13 Insurance Counseling..........................................15 Legal Services.....................................................15 Long Term Care Insurance Counseling...............15 Long Term Care Planning....................................16 Nail Care In-Home................................................15 Physicians...........................................................15 Physician Referrals..............................................15 Publications..........................................................17 Realtors................................................................17 Reverse Mortgage...............................................17 Senior Centers.....................................................17 Senior Government..............................................17 Volunteers Needed..............................................18 Indexes to Articles on Planning, Quality of Life, and Final Wishes are included at the beginning of each section.
The Napa Senior Care Directory is published annually by: Born to Age P.O. Box 6863 Napa, CA 94581 Publisher: Yvonne Baginski Cover Photos: Barry Dodds Design & Layout: Celeste Heiter
A NOTE TO OUR READERS: Efforts were made to ensure that the entries were current at the time of printing. Please be aware that changes may occur. Response to information contained in this directory, including any corrections or updated information should be directed to: Born to Age 707-226-7127
[email protected]
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Quality of Life
Final Wishes
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Adult Day Health Care........................................19 Adult Protective Services....................................19 Alzheimer’s Information, Referral & Education...19 Alzhimer’s Residential Care Facilities.................19 Assisted Living....................................................20 Assisted Living Complaints.................................21 Board & Care Homes...........................................21 Cancer Support...................................................21 Care Management / Planning..............................23 Caregiver Support Services................................23 Caregivers for Hire..............................................23 Chore Services....................................................24 Continuing Care Retirement Communities..........31 Elder Abuse Advocacy........................................31 Emergency Response Systems..........................31 Family Caregiver Support....................................31 Friendly Visitors...................................................31 Guide Dogs for the Blind.....................................31 Health and Medical Supplies...............................33 Hearing Dog Training..........................................33 Hearing Impaired Advocacy.................................33 Home Health Care Services................................33 Home Modifications.............................................33 Hospitals..............................................................33 In-Home Supportive Services..............................33 Massage Services...............................................33 Medical Alarms....................................................34 Medical Equipment..............................................34 Medication Monitoring.........................................34 Memory Care (See Alzheimer’s).........................34 Mental Health Screenings...................................34 Move Assistance.................................................34 Nail Care (In Home)............................................34 Nursing Homes....................................................34 Nursing Home Complaints...................................34 Oxygen Equipment..............................................35 Palliative Care.....................................................35 Pet Sitting............................................................36 Pharmacies.........................................................35 Placement Services.............................................35 Residential Care Facilities...................................22 Respite Care Out of Home..................................36 Shopping & Errand Services.................................36 Support Groups...................................................36 Transportation.....................................................37 Veteran’s Services..............................................38 Visually Impaired Services & Equipment..............38 Wellness Checks.................................................39 Wheelchair Transportation..................................39 Wound Care........................................................39
If you would like to advertise in Born to Age, please take a moment to fill out our Advertisers’ Questionnaire on page 47.
Body & Organ Donation.......................................48 Cremation Services.............................................48 Estate Adminstration............................................48 Grief Support Groups...........................................48 Hospice Services.................................................49 Palliative Care.....................................................49 Trust & Probate Administration...........................49
On the Cover (From Left to Right, Top to Bottom) Row 1: Emily J. Howe, Piner’s Starr Piner, Piner’s Row 2: Darcey Jezycki, Piner’s Kim Geis, Hearts That Matter Row 3: Jeannie Falcon, Love & Joy Senior Care Services Naomi Dreskin-Anderson, Attorney at Law Howie Broxton, Share the Care Lisa Ragone, Share the Care Row 4: Kimberly Hamilton, Hospice by the Bay Terri Restelli-Diets, Napa County Commission on Aging Jonaline Kruger, Visiting Angels Meryll Gobler, Rohlff’s Manor Row 5: Betsy Kerr, Share the Care Tom MacDonald, Reverse Mortgage, Share the Care Kits Roa, Napa Valley Senior Care, Inc. April Webster, Golden Living Center Jennifer Winters, Aegis Senior Living Bob Wallin, Windermere Napa Valley Properties, Share the Care Row 6: Roger Young, Aegis of Napa Paula Campbell, Rescare Stephanie Casper, Stephanie Casper Insurance Services Kalil Macklin, Kaiser Permanente Senior Advantage Tracee Stacy, Primetime Living, PEAS, AAOA Dave Decker, Lifeline Mary Vineyard, Area Agency on Aging Dianna Gonzalez, Area Agency on Aging Row 7: Albert DeSilver, Visiting Angels Shana Granthan, Family Drug Becky Givens, Adventist Health Jann Oldenberg, Senior Visionary Services Shawn Amirhoushmand, Golden Living Center, Napa Candy Smith, Home Instead Senior Care Angela Fontana, Transitions Mark Gasster, B Home Assisted Living Row 8: Shawna Williams, ApexCare Trisha Beard, Camino Alto Residence Club Carol Eldridge, Holiday Retirement, Napa Debbie Santos, D.A. Santos and Associates Connie Hamilton, Visiting Angels Kerry Baldwin, Silverado Orchards Community Joey Palma, Abba Home Care V. Lynn Cox, Hired Hands Elizabeth Mautner, Napa County Long Term Care Ombudsman Row 9: Kerry J. Frisch, Frisch & Frisch, Attorney Thomas Kiernan, Pacific Fiduciary Services Cora Fulton, Cora Home Companion Care Betty Rhodes, N.C.C.O.A. Lia Miller, The Berkshire Celine Regalia, Napa Valley Hospice and Adult Day Services Drew Ross, Creative Counseling for Elders and Families, Inc. Camie Bianchi, Your Home...Nursing Services Linda Gibson, Napa Valley Hospice
www.
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From the Editor
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Welcome to the 15th Anniversary Edition of the Born To Age, Napa Directory for Older Adults.
Yvonne Baginski, Publisher
Napa County 2015
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Bet you never thought you’d need this magazine as a guide for you, or a loved one’s future. Now, here you are…reading it and wondering, “Who’s Going to Take Care of Me When I No Longer Can?”
Good question. Not many want to think about it, nor have made any plans. In talking with people who are working in the senior care industry, I’ve discovered that most of them haven’t made any plans either… everyone hopes for good health, prosperity, longevity and a sudden, pleasant death. Some believe that making funeral plans is enough. When asked about her plans for getting older, one woman told me that “we’re all set…bought the plot, paid for the burial and ordered the headstone.” That’s the plan for death, not aging. Most of us will outlive our ability to drive by seven years. If we make it past 80, about 50% will have Alzheimer’s, or some form of dementia…and most of the rest will have some sort of chronic disease such as diabetes, congestive heart failure, arthritis, or cancer. Then, there’s all the lifetime medical conditions, such as high blood pressure, that increase the incidence of stroke, and other such ailments. Yet, getting older may not always mean getting better. In my 34 years of working with older people, I’ve only met a handful over age 90 who are in really great shape, have their full faculties and still enjoying a high quality of life. Most of those were also women.
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The rest, well…while they might tell me they’re doing “fine,” the truth is somewhere in-between. I’ve seen people losing eyesight to glaucoma and macular degeneration, hearing, ability to walk, and just plain tired everyday from their host of problems and worries. Often, I’m told, “I just don’t feel 82 years old on the inside, but my body seems to be giving up.”
I-Phone, so that you can see how mom is doing at home.
Rather than be an ostrich regarding the possibilities, it might be a good idea to know just what is available, and how you can use it when the time comes. Use this directory as a guide to possibilities. Talk to your children, family members and friends about how you want to live as you get older. Mostly, though, get to know your neighbors. They’ll be the first ones who will notice if something starts to slide at home.
That’s why this directory exists. It is a record of what is available, right now, in Napa County. I invite you to read it cover-to-cover, and put is somewhere safe for later. Share it with your family members and friends. I am also available to speak before your group, association or club. Just give me a call and we’ll set it up. I’ll bring free directories to pass out, and we’ll talk about what to expect in our community as we get older.
Even if you NEVER want to go into a nursing home, realize that you just might one day. Especially if you fall, break a hip, have surgery and then, from the hospital, will go to the nursing home for rehabilitation. Now, how long you stay in the nursing home is determined by your health insurance…20, 30 or even 45 days…and then, it’s usually back home, or an assisted living facility. Most people don’t stay in a nursing home very long nowadays. The times have changed. In fact, so much has changed in senior care in the last decade or so, that most people have no idea just how much. New products are constantly being introduced and as technology advances, we’re seeing more possibility of people being able to live alone at home much longer than ever before. There are now GPS alarms that are motion activated and will alert officials if someone falls…even far from home. There are computerized medication dispensers that will call a family member is a dose is skipped, and there are even cameras that can be installed to track room-toroom movement that can be sent to a loved one’s
New board and care homes and assisted living facilities are opening, more people are coming into the business of senior care, and with that, the increasing rapidity of change is imminent.
The directories are free, so are my talks. It’s a great way to start an important conversation. I also want to thank the advertisers for making this directory a reality. It’s a true labor of love, and those who are supporting this directory are caring, compassionate people who are striving to make a difference and a better life for everyone. Their generous spirit is much appreciated. If you’d like more directories, call us. We’ll be happy to send them out. And, if there is anything missing, let us know…or, better yet, let the business know that they are missed. Looking forward to another year. Yvonne Baginski Editor/Publisher
Born ..to.. Age Senior Information Kiosks )()( )()(
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Thanks to all these businesses for their community-minded efforts in keeping all of us aware of life and care choices through time. 12/12/2008 2:08:59 PM
1. Raley’s Pharmacy, 271 Soscol Ave. 2. Family Drug, 1805 Old Sonoma Rd. 3. Vintage at Napa, 2360 Redwood Rd. 4. Napa Valley Orthopaedic, 3273 Claremont Way 5. Walgreens Pharmacy, 1685 Trancas St. 6. Piner’s Medical Supply, 907 Trancas St. 7. Disability Services & Legal Center, 1041 Main St. #208 8. Rohlff’s Manor, 2400 Fair Drive 9. Queen of the Valley Hospital Cancer Center, 1000 Trancas 10. The Springs of Napa, 3460 Villa Lane 11. Redwood Retirement, 2350 Redwood Road 12. La Siesta Mobile Home Village, 4433 Solano Ave. 13. American Canyon Senior Center, 2185 Elliott Dr.
14. Golden Living Center, 705 Trancas St. 15. Kaiser Medical Offices, 3285 Claremont Way 16. Rohlffs Concordia Manor, 2400 Fair Dr. 17. Molly’s Angels, 433 Soscol St. 18. Rancho de Napa Mobile Homes, 6468 Washington St, Yountville 19. Oaktree Vineyard Senior Mobile Homes, 2001 Salvador Ave. 20. Walgreens Pharmacy, 210 American Canyon Road 21. Calistoga Springs Mobile Homes, 45 Magnolia Dr, Calistoga 22. Chateau Calistoga Mobile Homes, 223 Champagne West, Calistoga 23. Rancho de Calistoga Mobile Homes, 2412 Foothill Blvd, Calistoga 24. 1st Custom Digital Hearing Aid Center, 3179 Solano Ave 25. Jefferson Street Housing, 3400 Jefferson St. 26. Yountville Parks & Recreation Building, Wall Kiosk
to . Age Call 707-226-7127 to place a complete Born Born..to . Age Senior Information Kiosk in your lobby, entrance, or business today. )()( )()(
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Planning: Index to Articles Survey of Senior Apartments..................................................10 13 Documents You Need for Effective Planning..........................12 Getting Paperwork in Order....................................................14 Why Estate Planning Can Make a Difference...............................14 Hope is Not a Plan: Guide to Long Term Care............................15 Reverse Mortgage Can Pay for You to Live at Home......................16 Volunteer Opportunities.........................................................18 Small Pleasures....................................................................18 Loving Animals Providing Smiles.............................................18
ACTIVITIES Alliance on Aging Business & professionals working with elderly network 2nd Tuesday of each month, 8:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m. Queen of the Valley Hospital, Conference Rm. 2 Napavalleyallianceonaging.com For information, call Yvonne Baginski 226-7127 American Association of University Women (AAUW) Pat Parker, 253-7472 American Canyon Family Resource Center 3431 Broadway, Ste A-5 American Canyon, CA 94503 980-7024 American Canyon Senior Center 2185 Elliot Dr. American Canyon, CA 647-4567
• Brochure Design • Advertising Layout • Copywriting & Editing
Area Agency on Aging Serving Napa and Solano 400 Contra Costa Street. Mailing: P.O. Box 3069 Vallejo, CA 94590 255-4281 (See ad on page 7) Art Class Needing to De-Stress? Fridays, 10 a.m.-noon QVH Wellness Center 3421 Villa Lane Call Liz: 251-2007 Donations accepted Area Agency on Aging Advisory Council Meetings First Thursday, 1 p.m.alternating in Napa and Solano Counties. AAA Board of Directors meetings, 3rd Tuesday, 2:30 p.m., Vallejo Information: 644-6612 (See ad on page 7) Ballroom Dancing Napa Senior Center 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday nights Alternating bands 252-6258 or 224-6087
• Publication Production • Electronic Publishing • Ebook Design
707.812.0353 www.CelesteHeiter.com
Planning 7
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[email protected]
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Napa Valley Ballroom Dancers 2nd Saturday at Napa Senior Center Call John: 226-6834 Ballroom Dancing in Yountville Yountville Community Center Wednesdays 7-8:30 p.m. 944-8712 Bocce Ball Leagues Napa Senior Center 255-1800 Buddhism For Today Mondays 7-8:30 p.m. Jessel Gallery 1019 Atlas Peak Rd. Free 415-717-4943 Creative Living Arts, crafts, speakers and group discussion Calistoga Community Center 1307 Washington St. Calistoga, CA 94515 Virginia Dooley 942-4484 Every Wednesday, 10 a.m.- 2 p.m. No sessions months of July and August
Continued on Page 8
Accomplished artist, Joe Roter, age 83, volunteers teaching an art therapy class each Friday at 10 a.m., Queen of the Valley Wellness Center, 3421 Villa Lane. Drop-in, no fee. Class specializes in de-stressing by drawing and coloring while listening to music.
AAOA
Assistance, Advocacy, Answers on Aging
Get Connected! Are you looking for resources for older adults in Napa and Solano counties? Call the AAOA (Area Agency on Aging). We’re here to help! 707-255-4284 or 1-800-510-2020 www.aaans.org Join the AAOA Facebook community at www.facebook.com/AAOANS
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Mah Jong Ellie Frankina, 255-5638
ACTIVITIES cont. California Native Plant Society Napa Valley Chapter 253-2665
Master Gardeners Workshops on home gardening. 253-4221
Cribbage Club Every Tuesday at 6:15 p.m. Napa Moose Lodge 3275 Browns Valley Rd. Call Dennis: 224-2345
Meditation Wednesdays, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Napa Valley Center for Spiritual Living 1249 Coombs (off Pearl St.) Napa, CA 252-4847
Ivy Rebekah Lodge Meets 2nd and 4th Wednesdays, 2 p.m. At The Meadows 1800 Atrium Parkway 255-4492
Men’s Barbershop Harmony Chorus Men who like to sing are welcome 815-7029
[email protected]
Latino Elder Coalition of Napa County Networking meeting held monthly. Call Julie Penning at 251-2020 for meeting times and location. Library Grandparent Volunteers Cailin Yeager: 253-4079
Napa Bocce Association Joe Catania 224-2586 Napa Boots and Belles Square dance club Wednesdays 7:00 - 9:00 p.m. Napa Senior Center 252-3161
Questions on Caring?
Need Information?
Ask Yvonne! FREE personal assistance, either by computer or just a phone call away! We’ll help you find the right answer to all your questions about Senior Care in your local community.
Born .. .. Age .com
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Napa Commission on Aging Meets 2-4 p.m., 4th Monday at the Board of Supervisor’s Chambers, 1125 Third St. No meetings in May or December. To confirm meeting date, time and place call Terri: 815-2500 Napa County Historical Society 224-1739 Napa German Club Gerlinde: 255-9389 Napa Orchid Society Meets second Friday of every month, 7 p.m., Napa Senior Center 1500 Jefferson St. 707-244-4190
[email protected] Napa Senior Activity Center 1500 Jefferson St. Napa, CA 94559 255-1800 Napa Senior Citizens, Inc. 226-6317
Napa-Solano Audobon Society Cheryl Harris 224-6133 Napa Valley Adult Education 1600 Lincoln Ave. Napa, CA 253-3594 adulted.nvusd.k12.ca.us Napa Valley Bonsai Club 1st and 3rd Monday, 7:30 p.m. Napa Senior Center Curtis: 226-8143 Napa Valley Camellia Society Every 2nd Monday 7:00 p.m. October-May Napa Senior Center 224-2563 Napa Valley College Trips and Tours 967-2900 then press 2 Napa Valley Genealogical and Biographical Society 252-2252
Welcome Home to...
Silverado Orchards Retirement Community
Support?
www.
Napa County 2015
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Or Call 707.226.7127
“We’re all about Family!” Affordable, All-Inclusive Monthly Rent No Lease, Buy-ins or Add-ons • Three Nutritious Meals Every Day • Delicious, Fresh Salad Bar • Activities & Excursions • Housekeeping • Transportation • Beauty Salon • Health & Wellness Program • Guest Rooms • And Much More...
(707) 963-3688 601 Pope Street, St. Helena, CA 94574
www.SilveradoOrchards.com
Family Owned Since 1978
Born .. .. Age
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Napa Valley Fly Fishers Meets 2nd Thursday at 7 p.m. Napa Senior Center www.napavalleyflyfishers.org Call Michael: 337-9410 Napa Valley Needlers Every 2nd Thursday, 11:30 a.m. Napa Senior Center Linda: 224-2355 Napa Valley Photographic Society Every 4th Monday, 7 p.m. Studio II Gallery 570 Soscol Ave., Napa 257-0900 . Napa Valley Quilters Every 2nd Saturday, 10 a.m. Napa Senior Center Linda: 224-2355 Napa Valley Senior Choir Tuesdays, 9:45 a.m. Napa Senior Center 253-3425 Napa Valley Women’s Club Every 4th Tuesday, 6 p.m. 218 Franklin St., Napa No meetings July, August Joan Taramasso: 224-3924
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National Association of Retired Federal Employees (NARFE) Last Wednesday of each month, 1:30pm Napa Senior Center. Membership open to all current and retired Federal employees. 257-2228 or 224-2753 National Federation for the Blind George 244-4400 or Carol 257-7110 Rianda House Senior Activity Center 1475 Main St., St. Helena 963-8555 Monday– Friday 9 am - 4 pm Info/monthly schedule: www.riandahouse.org Call for current schedule: Daily classes & wellness activities, arts, lectures, board games, exercise, support groups. Congregate meals M, T and F Senior Seminar Fridays at 9:00 a.m Napa Senior Center. Henry Michalski: 812-4812 Singles of the North Bay 2nd Sunday of each month, 6:00 p.m. Napa Senior Center Inara Steinbruner: 224-3038
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Tai Chi Class Fridays 1:30 - 3:30 p.m. The Meadows 1800 Atrium Parkway, Napa.
Napa Long Term Care Ombudsman (For residents in nursing homes and assisted living) 1443 Main St., #125 Napa, CA 94558 255-4236 (See ad on page 32)
TOPS Chapter Take weight off sensibly Call Irene: 226-9029 Veteran’s Home of California- Yountville 100 California Dr. Yountville, CA 94599 944-4600
California Medical Association To order a kit: 800-882-1262
Welcome Club of Napa Valley Meets Sept-June Bridge, fundraising, bookclub 255-3617 Widowed Persons Association of California 2nd Saturday of each month, 1:00 p.m. potluck at Napa Senior Center Every Tuesday at 8:00 a.m. for breakfast at Big Bear Diner, 303 Soscol Ave. Jessie: 258-1648 www.wpacnapa.org
HOW TO PLAN FOR LONG TERM CARE
ars aside, most elderly will not “end up” in a home. In fact, even with siderable increase in the opulation, we’re still only about 8-10 percent derly spending their final nursing home…the ercentage as twenty go.
homes are also no epositories for the About half of the people g homes are there to ate after a stroke, or accident, and the ajority will return home in 0 days. In most nursing ays under 100 days, the probably be covered by icare benefit.
stion most people worry the cost and payment of sing home stay. No The average nursing Napa costs $180 a day ared room. That’s a month. Only for the d board.
are doesn’t cover the …then, what? Well, oes into the category of
Cathy Zeller Erickson Zeller, Hoff & Zeller 929 Randolph St. Napa, CA 94559 252-6633 (See ad on page 9)
ADVANCE DIRECTIVES FOR HEALTH CARE
AFFORDABLE HOUSING (See rates on page 10) Jefferson Street Senior Housing 3400 Jefferson St. Napa, CA 94558 258-8875 Laurel Manor 3201 Laurel St. Napa, CA 94558 35 255-9709
Napa Creek Manor (Your final wishes for health care 1300 Jefferson St. decisions. Everyone should have one Sons of Italy completed, no matter age or handle health mail, Napa, CA 94559 Napa Valley Lodge portion of admissions. In other care, make it clear whether you hire caregivers, 257-1878 condition. Forms arefor available at 4th Thursday, 6 want p.m. the home sold and the words, if all the designated arrange recreation/ hospitals, hospice and local medical Napa Senior Center Medi-Cal beds are full, a person money used for your care, or you entertainment, arrange for all Rohlff’s Manor Rossi: 252-0700 might be relegated toMarie another want to take out a reverseoffices.) matters relating to personal care 2400 Fair Dr. nursing home, or even out of mortgage or other equity loan. and welfare. Napa, CA 94558 Honoring Choices Napa Valley county. (There may be children 4. Make a contingency plan…be 255-9555 Promoting Advance Care Planning expecting to inherit the house or clear on what you DON’T want, for All Adults in Napa County It’s not “paying for“ a nursing property and not wanting to sell just in case what you do want Continued on Page 11 414 S. Jefferson St. home that is going to be an or mortgage the property to pay isn’t possible. Napa, CA 94558 issue for most people. Chances for a parent’s care.) 254-4162 5. Know that the one of the first are, if more care is needed due 2. Determine scope of care that ways people losing to aging or chronic illness, might be needed. For example, independence is by people will rely heavily on family, staying home having to stop driving. Become friends and then look at paying might require home familiar with the bus, taxi and PROVIDING OUR CLIENTS WITHaround PERSONAL for private home care or modifications, new equipment, other ways of getting Trusts ATTENTION SINCE .1952 assisted living. Neither private technology and custodial care.PROFESSIONAL before giving up the keys. In Wills home care or assisted living is a Moving to a facility would fact, it would be a good idea to benefit covered by Medi-Cal or indicate a preferred location or become familiar with all the Durable Powers of Attorney Medicare. (Medi-Cal, however, place. services and resources so you Probate can pay for a portion of home 3. Determine who will have the can exercise freedom of choice Trust Administration care deemed In Home powers to direct personal care (if to the fullest extent possible. & Litigation Supportive Services, but this is you become incompetent) This for people who are already using would include providing meals, Civil Trial Litigation the benefit.) When it comes to long term care, most people will stay in their own homes. Then, if they have to move for more care, they’ll go to assisted living or board and care. (Costs of these facilities in Napa are compared on pages 38 and 39). There are only three ways to pay
PROVIDING OUR CLIENTS WITH PERSONAL PROFESSIONAL ATTENTION SINCE 1952
ZELLER, HOFF & ZELLER
INC.
A T T O R N E Y S
A T
L A W
929 Randolph Street Napa, California 94559
929 Randolph Street Napa, California 94559
707-252-6633
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SURVEY OF NAPA COUNTY SENIOR APARTMENTS INDEPENDENT RETIREMENT LIVING The Meadows of Napa Valley 1800 Atrium Parkway Napa, CA 94559 257-7885 www.retirement.org/Napa Not-for-Profit Community The Meadows of Napa Valley, includes: Main Dining Room – with indoor and outdoor dining, Rebekah’s Café – with indoor and outdoor dining, Fireside Lounge and Bar, Fitness Centers, Outdoor Heated Pool, Hair Salon, Gift Shop, Billiard and Game Room, Bocce Courts, Hobby Center, Movie Theatre, Library, and Chapel. Appellation apartments offer up to 1,076 square feet of living space, featuring kitchens with granite counter tops, fine wood cabinetry, a microwave, and a cook-top stove. Some feature a full-sized refrigerator and stove. Washer and dryer included. Basic rates include: Three meals a day, housekeeping, cable TV, transportation, organized events, heated pool. Basic 1-Bedroom starts at $2,929 (one person). 2 Bedroom $5,132 (one person), second person fee is $660. All apartments include a kitchenette. No commitment. Month to month. $1,000 application fee plus 1st month’s rent. Redwood Retirement Residence 2350 Redwood Rd., Napa, CA 94558 707-257-0333 redwoodretirement.com Live-in managers, kitchenette, 3 chefprepared meals daily, housekeeping, transportation, full activity calendar, pets welcome – no pet deposit. Studio – Starting at $2174 1-bedroom - $2399 2-bedroom - $4524 Silverado Orchards Retirement Apartments 601 Pope Street St. Helena, CA 94574 963-3688 www.SilveradoOrchards.com Basic rates include 3 meals, local transportation and excursion trips, utilities, housekeeping and linens service, 24-hour on-site security and a garden area for personal gardens. Studio, $1,960 Deluxe, $2,360. One bedroom, $2,760. Deluxe suite with 2 bedrooms, $3,160. Second person rate: $400. Some apartments allow pets. Deposit is equal to first month’s rent. Rental is month-to-month, no long term lease or buy-in is required. Rate for new residents only. First come, first served.
Special reduced rates are available for individuals with a financial need. Please call the Manager for a confidential appointment. Full service beauty salon with manicure and pedicure. Open to public. Guest rooms and guest meals for public. Everyone welcome to activities. The Springs of Napa 3460 Villa Lane Napa, CA 94558 707-224-7855 thespringsofnapa.com Live-in managers, full-kitchen, 3 chefprepared meals daily, housekeeping, transportation, full activity calendar, pets welcome – no pet deposit. Studio - $2599 1-bedroom - $2699 2-bedroom - $4999 LOW INCOME HOUSING Jefferson Street Housing 3400 Jefferson St. Napa, CA 94558 258-8875
The Reserve at Napa 710 Trancas St. Napa, Ca 94558 252-4070 Must be over age 62. Maximum household income cannot exceed $36,180 for one person, $41,340 for two persons. One bedroom, $908; Two bedroom, $1,060. Includes full kitchen. Total deposit of $600 for damage/clean up. $100 is applied to deposit. Up to two pets allowed, up to 25 lbs. Additional $500 deposit for each pet, up to 2 pets. Can purchase bond for $87.50 to cover damage and/or pet deposit. Vintage at Napa 2360 Redwood Rd. Napa, Ca 94558 224-4550 Must be over age 55 and total household income, including income from assets, be less than or equal to 50-60% of the median income for Napa County. Maximum income for 1 person, $30,150 or, $34,450 for two
people. The 60% rate is applicable for income levels of $36,180 for one person, or $41,340 for two. Rent for one bedroom is $932-$985, two bedroom $1,100-$1,295 a month. There is a nonrefundable $35 application fee. For consideration, applicant must be interviewed and all income and assets are verified. Full kitchens. Regular security deposit, $300. Pet deposit, $400. Veteran’s Home of California Yountville 944-4600 This is only for veterans, and they must be a resident of California at time of application. An applicant must also have been honorably discharged, experienced active service time and or retirement age, or disabled. Rates here include everything: all health care, vision, dental, housing food and shuttle rides to Napa and other destinations. Allinclusive rate is based on 47.5% of annual income. Rates not based on savings, funds, real estate or other assets. Everyone shares a room. There is no waiting list for independent living.
Napa Creek Manor 1300 Jefferson Napa, Ca 94558 257-1878
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Woodbridge Village 727 Hunt Ave. St. Helena, CA 94574 963-3231 HUD-subsidized housing for low-income seniors. Must be over age 62, single person earns less than $28,850 a year. Couple, $33,000. Rent is determined as 30% of adjusted gross income. All apartments are one-bedroom with full kitchen. Rohlff’s Manor 2400 Fair Drive Napa, CA 94558 255-9555 (Dial 711 for TDD hearing & speech disabled for a tour) www.rohlffsmanor.org Single story & 2 story apartments. Must be 55 years+. Rents for studios on the nonassisted side starts at $498 -$668. One bd. starts at $632-$914. Full kitchens & patios or gardens. Community Garden, Whirlpool Bath & Hair/Nail Salon on property. Section 8 vouchers available on a regular basis. Small pets welcome. Income cannot be over $36,180 for one person or $41,340 for 2 people annually. Not for Profit Corporation.
The Meadows – Beauty and Affordability Everything you desire for your retirement and your future is available at the Meadows. Enjoy our abundant offerings and rent month-to-month or secure our Continuing Care—all at the most affordable price point in the Bay Area.
Call today for a tour: 707-320-2222
www.retirement.org/napa 1800 Atrium Parkway Napa, California 94559 A not-for-profit, resident-centered community.
An IOOF Community • PCOA#: 249 RCFE#: 286801070 • SNF#: 110000292
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AFFORDABLE HOUSING cont. Silverado Orchards Retirement Apartments 601 Pope St. St. Helena, CA 94574 963-3688 (See ad on page 8)
Kerry J. Frisch Frisch & Frisch 1114 Franklin St. Napa, CA 94559 226-3404 (See ad on page 11) CONGREGATE MEALS
The Reserve Napa Senior Apartments 710 Trancas St. Napa, CA 94558 252-4070
American Canyon Senior Center 2185 Elliott Dr. American Canyon, CA 647-4567
Woodbridge Village 727 Hunt Ave. St. Helena, CA 94574 963-3231
Laurel Manor 3201 Laurel Napa, CA 94558 255-9709
ATTORNEYS (See Legal Services page 15) Law Office of Naomi Dreskin-Anderson Elder Law Attorney 2180 Jefferson St., Suite 207 Napa, CA 94559 252-8900 Home Visits Available. Napavalleyelderlaw.com (See ad on page 11) Cathy Zeller Erickson Zeller, Hoff & Zeller 929 Randolph St. Napa, CA 94559 252-6633 www.zhzlaw.com (See ad on page 9)
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Napa Senior Center 1500 Jefferson St. Napa, CA 94559 255-1800 Rianda House Senior Activity Center Monday, Tuesday and Friday For reservations call: 253-6111 1475 Main St., St. Helena 963-8555 Info/monthly schedule: www.riandahouse.org CONSERVATORS/TRUSTEE Napa County Public Guardian 253-4049 Jim Nord P.O. Box 690 Napa, CA 94558 255-5429 (See ad on page 11)
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Pacific Fiduciary Services P.O. Box 2947 Suisun City, CA 94585 Phone: (707) 426-0926 Thomas J. Kiernan, CLPF Email:
[email protected] Private Professional Fiduciary as trustee, personal representative, attorney-in-fact and conservator. (See ad on page 11) CONSUMER ADVOCACY SERVICES Better Business Bureau 1-510-238-1000 Born To Age Publications for Seniors P.O. Box 6863 Napa, CA 94581 226-7127 (See ad on page 8)
COUNSELING SERVICES (See also Caregiver Support Groups) All Seniors Safe and Sound Napa, CA 815.2534 allseniorssafeandsound.com (See ad on page 34) Area Agency on Aging Serving Napa and Solano 400 Contra Costa St. Vallejo, CA 94590 255-4284 www.aaans.org (See ad on page 7) Comprehensive Services for Older Adults 900 Coombs St., #257 Napa, CA 94558 253-4625
California Department of Consumer Affairs 1-800-344-9940
Creative Counseling For Elders and Families, Inc. 707-239-2310 www.creativecounseling.org (See ad on page 9)
HICAP Medicare & Long Term Care Insurance Counseling 1-800-434-0222 Napa County Consumer Affairs 253-4059 Share the Care Senior Advocates 492-3198 (See ad on inside back cover)
Family Services of Napa Valley Sliding fee scale counseling 709 Franklin St. Napa, Ca 94558 255-0966 Healthy Minds / Healthy Aging Free support for older adults. In-home counseling available. 251-2058.
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Experienced Legal Advocate for Concerns of Elders and their Families
Experienced Trust & Probate Administration
Wills &Trusts - Powers of Attorney - Elder Abuse - Conservatorships Assisted Living/Nursing Home Issues - MediCare Appeals and other Healthcare-Related Concerns
- Jim Nord -
Law Office of Naomi Dreskin-Anderson
Home Visits Available Call for Appointment
(707) 252-8900
2180 Jefferson Street, Suite 207, Napa, CA
NapaValleyElderLaw.com
KERRY J. FRISCH Attorney at Law (707) 226-3404 Probate Matters, Wills, Power of Attorneys & Trusts 1114 Franklin St. Napa, CA 94559 Fax (707) 226-3405
255-5429
[email protected]
Pacific Fiduciary Services Trust Adm inistration, Estate & Person
“W hen you need som eone you can trust”
Thomas J. Kiernan, CLPF
(707) 426-0926
www.pacfid.com
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W
henever I speak with my mother, she always tells me where her papers are....the papers that I'll need in case she ever dies. Except, when I ask her for the details, it turns out that these aren't the papers I might need if she lives, but becomes incompetent or too ill to take care of her personal matters on her own.
COUNSELING SERVICES cont. HICAP Medicare & Long Term Care Insurance Counseling 1-800-434-0222 DRIVING CLASSES 55 Alive (AARP) 888-687-2277 www.aarp.org
But, my mom believes she's prepared, and she's not. In fact, I'm worried that if something happens, we'll be scrambling in all directions. I don't think she's alone in this regard. That's why I'm writing this piece for all of us. Here are the important documents you'll need. And be sure to tell your family where they're stored. Born To Age also recommends: The Estate Document Organizer, a notebook that contains ALL the information your family will need. These Organizers are available from creator, Julie Jones at 707- 343-1252. They can also be seen at: www.estatedocsorganizer.com Start collecting these documents as soon as possible, and update them every few years to reflect changes in assets and preferences.
1. An Original Will A will allows you to dictate who inherits your assets. Dying without a will means losing control of how your assets are distributed. Instead, state law will determine what happens. Wills are subject to probrate–legal proceedings that take inventory, make appraisals of property settle outstanding debt and distribute remaining assets. One way to avoid probate is with a Revocable Living Trust.
2. A Revocable Living Trust This is a transfer of ownership of various assets to a trust. You can serve as a trustee on behalf of the benficiaries you designate. Or, you can designate a trust executor on the event of your death.
3. Durable Financial Power of Attorney Form This form designates who will make financial decisions on your behalf in the event that you are incapacitated.
Napa County 2015
Napa Senior Center 1500 Jefferson St Napa, Ca 94559 707-255-1800 (Call to register) EDUCATION
13 Documents You Need For Effective Planning 4. Documentation of Assets This includes housing and land ownership, cemetery plots, vehicles, stock certificates, savings bonds, any partnership or corporate operating agreements and a list of brockerage and escrow mortgage accounts.
5. Tax Returns (previous three years) 6. Banking Information List of all bank accounts and online log-in information. List any safe deposit boxes, and register your spouse or child's name with the bank and ask them to sign the registration so they can have access without securing a court order.
7. Durable Health Care Power of Attorney Form (Advance Directive) This allows your designee to make health care decisions on your behalf if you are incapacitated.
8. Authorization to Release Protected Health Information Form This allows you to designate people who can be given information about your health from your doctor or hospital.
9. A Physician's Order for Life Sustaining Treatment (POLST) Form This bright pink form is for terminally ill or people who are very old and frail and not expected to live more than a year. The POLST designates preference for on the spot medical treatment in the emergency room, or by the EMTs.
10. Life Insurance Policies Family members need to know the name of the carrier, the policy number and the agent associated with the policy.
11. Benefits Accounts This includes pensions, annuities, individual retirement accounts and (401) ks for your spouse or children. If your heirs don't know about these accounts, they won;t be able to claim them.
12. Your marriage license, or your divorce judgement/ decree. 13. Your Birth Certificate and Social Security card.
American Cancer Society 1031 Jefferson St. Napa, CA 94559 255-5911, Press 3 1-800-ACS-2345 www.cancer.org Free conference call “classes” for cancer patients and their loved ones to learn ways to navigate the cancer experience while building knowledge and coping skills. Information on all types of cancer, free services, materials and health kit organizer. Area Agency on Aging Serving Napa and Solano 400 Contra Costa St. Vallejo, CA 94590 255-4284 www.aaans.org (See ad on page 7) Napa Valley Adult Education 1600 Lincoln Ave., Napa, CA 253-3594 Adulted.nvusd.k12.ca.us ESTATE and FINANCIAL PLANNING SERVICES Cathy Zeller Erickson Zeller, Hoff & Zeller 929 Randolph St. Napa, CA 94559 252-6633 www.zhz.com (See ad on page 9) D.A. Santos & Associates P.O. Box 6109 Napa, CA 94581 254-7276 (See ad on page 13)
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Kerry J. Frisch Frisch & Frisch 1114 Franklin St. Napa, CA 94559 226-3404 (See ad on page 11)
Pacific Fiduciary Services P.O. Box 2947 Suisun City, CA 94585 Phone: (707) 426-0926 Thomas J. Kiernan, CLPF Email:
[email protected]
Law Office of Naomi Dreskin-Anderson Elder Law Attorney 2180 Jefferson Street, Suite 207 Napa, CA 94559 707-252-8900 (See ad on page 11)
Private Professional Fiduciary as trustee, personal representative, attorney-in-fact and conservator. (See ad on page 11)
Pacific Fiduciary Services P.O. Box 2947 Suisun City, CA 94585 Phone: (707) 426-0926 Thomas J. Kiernan, CLPF Email:
[email protected] Private Professional Fiduciary as trustee, personal representative, attorney-in-fact and conservator. (See ad on page 11) FALL PREVENTION Stop Falls Napa Valley 255-5328 Works to prevent falls among older adults. Provides education about fall prevention; promotes physical activity to improve balance and mobility; conducts fall risk assessments and followup; provides home safety assessments and improved access to affordable home modification, and advocates for change. FIDUCIARY AND TRUST SERVICES Jim Nord P.O. Box 690 Napa, CA 94558 255-5429 (See ad on page 11)
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FOOD ASSISTANCE (See CANV Food Bank Info on page 33 and low income services page 43) HEALTH INSURANCE Stephanie Casper Insurance Services Independent Agent Servicing Senior Medicare Plans
[email protected] 707-334-6768 (See ad on page 13)
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HOME REPAIR The Volunteer Center 252-6222 The Volunteer Center maintains a database of handymen and contractors who are supervised to provide home repairs. These repairs are at market or reduced rates, depending on circumstances. Please call Jim Tomlinson at 252-6222. HOME REPAIR LOANS Housing Authority of Napa Contact: Joseph Wiencek 257-9543 Ext. 7356 INDEPENDENT LIVING (Senior retirement apartments providing three meals a day, transportation and activities. See price comparison chart on Page 10)
Kaiser Permanente Senior Advantage Kalil Macklin Kaiser Permanente Medicare Health Plan Sales Specialist 888-905-0555 TTY 711 kp.org.medicare (See ad on page17)
The Meadows of Napa Valley 1800 Atrium Parkway Napa, CA 94558 257-7885 www.retirement.org/Napa Not-for-Profit Community (See ad on page 10) Rohlff’s Manor 2400 Fair Dr. Napa, CA 255-9555 Silverado Orchards Retirement Apartments 601 Pope St. St. Helena, CA 94574 963-3688 or 800-339-1229 Silverado Orchards.com (See ad on page 8) INFORMATION AND ASSISTANCE All Seniors Safe and Sound Napa, CA 815.2534 allseniorssafeandsound.com (See ad on page 34)
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“HELPING SENIORS EVERY DAY WITH HEALTH CARE SOLUTIONS”
HEALTH INSURANCE COUNSELING & ADVOCACY SERVICES HICAP 1304 Southpoint Blvd., Suite 280 Petaluma, CA 94954 1-800-434-0222
Health Insurance
Stephanie Casper Independent Agent
. Life Insurance . Final Expense
Stephanie Casper Insurance Services
Providing Senior Medicare Plans: Medicare Supplement Plans Medicare Prescription Drug Plans Medicare Advantage Plans
YOU can qualify for Medi-Cal while protecting your assets!
Free Consultations
Call today!
707 334-6768
[email protected]
Serving Northern California Alameda, Contra Costa, Solano, Napa, Sonoma, and Yolo Counties
CA Department of Insurance 0G63411
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GETTING PAPERWORK IN ORDER TO PREPARE FOR JUST ABOUT ANYTHING THAT COULD HAPPEN
I
’m a procrastinator. I believe I am joining the ranks of millions in putting off things that can be done later. I don’t want to think about the “what if’s” and other possibilities of mortality. But, in my work in visiting people who need assistance or are worried about their care, I’ve discovered almost everyone is experiencing some sort of forgetfulness or disorganization in thinking. No kidding. It’s been a total surprise. And while conversations seem normal at first, I’ve found that digging a little deeper, there are memory lapses, words spoken out of context, forgotten nouns, and mistaken time frames. This doesn’t even include all the possibilities for communication breakdowns and misunderstandings. My recommendation is to get all the paperwork organized before there is a possibility of confusion and or forgetfulness. In fact, the moment you realize that your mind isn’t what it used to be, is a really good time to gets your life planned and in order.
complete this form. It can be signed in front of two witnesses, or a notary. Make a copy for your doctor’s file, the hospital file, and each agent that you have appointed. TALK WITH YOUR AGENT AB0UT YOUR WISHES. If your agent disagrees, find another agent.
2. Trust
The five legal documents you need right away, are:
1. Advance Health Directive This should be in place for everyone over age 18. You can pickup this form from your doctor, the hospital, or online at sebmf.org. It is easy. You will appoint an agent (friend or relative),
who will speak on your behalf in making health care decisions (including arrangements after death), in the event that you cannot. Make sure that you appoint someone who is going to be able to do this…not your spouse with Alzheimer’s Disease, or child who lives in New York City. You want someone who is competent, capable and nearby. You do NOT need an attorney to
Why Estate Planning Can Make a Difference to Your Family For Rob Pollack, the busiest day in his Novato-based office is the Monday after Thanksgiving. He’s an estate planning attorney, and he points out that after the family all gets together, “older people decide they want to change everything. They get grumpy, they’re losing their health and all that, and they still want to be in charge” And, his busiest season is the spring…just before people leave on an airplane on vacation. “They want to get their estate in order, in case something happens.” But, he has some advice for everyone… ”Get to a lawyer to get your paperwork in order before you become incapacitated or have a stroke.”
In his public lectures, Pollack is constantly stressing the need for people to have all their documents in order. “Especially if you’ve been hospitalized or diagnosed with a chronic illness,” he said before an audience of health care professionals recently. “ Odds are that the paperwork you did 5-10 years ago is no longer valid. Your agents might have moved, or relationships have changed. The most important thing to consider is who, if you become incapacitated, who will be in charge of your life, who will manage. If you own real estate, or have children, he recommends a trust. And, before you choose, make sure the person is the “right one.”
“Look for someone who’s honest, who’s local, and someone who gets it…they can take care of the paperwork,” he said. “It important they have the skills to understand what is happening and agree with your end of life decisions.” And, watch out for the errant child who, after a divorce or job loss, suddenly moves in to “help out” mom or dad, warns Pollack. “We call that child, ‘Sponge Bob.’ Suddenly they show up in the lawyer’s office, with mom, and mom wants to leave her house to that child because ‘they are taking such good care of me.’” “We see this a lot,” said Pollack.
If you own real estate, have assets over $100,000 and have children, having a trust is a good idea. A trust will avoid probate fees and procedures. Depending on your circumstances, Trusts can cost anywhere from $1,500 on up. However, they will save money for your inheritors, after death. In the trust, you designate a Successor Trustee to manage trust assests upon incapacity and death.
3. Durable Power of Attorney for Finances This gives legal authority for an agent to access your non-trust assets while you are still alive. So, you’d complete this in case of incapacity…so your agent can continuing paying your bills, etc.
4. Will The will designates the Executor of the estate and who inherits what. The Will can “pour over” assets into a living trust.
5. Physician’s Orders for Life Sustaining Treatment (POLST) This is a legal order, signed by your doctor. It’s a bright pink form. It clearly states your preferences in the immediate moment of crisis. For example, if you are in the last year of your life, this form will tell the EMT’s and emergency room doctors what sort of procedures you prefer in case of an immediate situation.
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INFORMATION AND ASSISTANCE cont. The Area Agency on Aging Serving Napa and Solano 400 Contra Costa St. Vallejo, CA 94590 255-4284 (See ad on page 7) Share the Care 492-3198 Share the Care is a Napa Valley-based information, referral, assistance and advocacy organization which is privately funded by the Gasser Foundation. One phone call helps match you up with a business, service or organization that will provide you with the help you need. (See ad on inside back cover)
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Born To Age 226-7127 www.borntoage.com (See ad on page 8) INSURANCE COUNSELING HICAP: 800-434-0222 Help offered with Medicare Part D, Long Term care and Medigap Policies LEGAL SERVICES (See Attorneys) California Advocates for Nursing Home Reform (CAHNR) 650 Harrison St. San Francisco, Ca 94107 1-800-474-1116 www.cahnr.org
Legal Aid of Napa Valley 575 Lincoln Avenue Suite 210 Napa, CA. 94558 707-259-0579 Fax 807-259-1449 www.legalaidnapa.org LONG TERM CARE INSURANCE COUNSELING HICAP Counseling 1-800-434-0222 LONG TERM CARE PLANNING / MEDI-CAL PLANNING Comprehenisive Services for Older Adults 900 Coombs St., #257 Napa, CA 94558 253-4625 or 1-800-498-9455
D.A. Santos & Associates P.O. Box 6109 Napa, CA 94581 254-7276 (See ad on page 13) PHYSICIANS Queen of the Valley Medical Center 1-877-449-DOCS PHYSICIAN REFERRAL Napa County Medical Society 980 Trancas St. Ste 8 Napa, CA 94558 255-3622
[email protected]
HOPE IS NOT A PLAN: A GUIDE TO MAKING LONG TERM CARE DECISIONS “I thought he was doing well until the last doctor’s visit. They told him that he’s losing his memory, but he doesn’t believe the MD. He just thinks they want his money.”
By David Hahklotubbe, Gerontologist and Long Term Care Expert
N
o one wants to get old, and barely any of us will effectively plan for it. Americans in particular tend to view aging as an event, rather than a process. In this paradigm of thinking, it seems that all of a sudden, Mom and Dad are “old”. It’s commonly a trauma, like a fall, or visiting them at home and noticing that the house is either a mess or there’s evidence of a recent kitchen fire that creates the chilling awareness. Some of what I hear from families as a Gerontologist and a support group facilitator is: “Mom was fine up until the day she broke her hip. Since she’s returned home from the hospital, she hasn’t been the same.”
“The care homes we toured were all very nice, but she’s only wandered out twice, we’ve decided to just “wait and see””. The over-riding belief is that things will work themselves out. This belief is steeped heavily in denial. Denial that your loved one is getting older, denial that it will take work to manage through it, denial that soon they will be gone and denial that you are next. Whatever the case may be, it is real, it is happening and there is likely imminent danger to the quality and quantity of life for your elder. So, clearly, denial is not a solution and Hope is not a plan. Most importantly, waiting and attempting to make critical decisions in chaos, typically does not lead to desired outcomes. One way to prevent further chaos is to plan ahead and know what your loved ones want, know what you want and make sure that your children, doctors
and family members, know it too. Here are some suggestions: 1. Educate yourself. Become an expert and advocate on exactly what you want, and how to make it happen. What services are available to me? How much money will I need? What will I do if it runs out? Where do I want to live? Who will take care of me? Who do I want making decisions for me once I’m unable to for myself? 2. Be reasonable about what you expect. In today’s working world, where family members are stressed with careers and their own families, it may not be possible for your children to be available to care for you 24/7. Also, it is a fallacy to believe that you will never need assistance at some point. Become familiar with community resources, businesses that help elders and volunteers. Know what is offered. If you lose your ability to drive, can you maneuver the local public transportation system, walk, use a taxi, or a volunteer driving service? Start practicing early. Most people will outlive their ability to drive by seven years. 3. Make an informed decision. Write everything down. Included with your Advance Directive for health care, make
sure you have completed a Power of Attorney for Finance, and made arrangement on what you would prefer if you become increasingly forgetful over time and not able to care for yourself at home anymore. Do not procrastinate on this task. 4. Seek guidance from credentialed, experienced, passionate and reputable members of your community. Beware of “FREE” services offered by third-party providers. Finally, know that getting older is something most of us can count on. America needs to shift it’s paradigm of thinking about our roles as we age. To say that taking care of a parent is a “role reversal” insinuates that it’s both, unexpected and a burden. Why not view it as an expected role, like the vast majority of the rest of the world? It will be interesting to see how this changes as the baby-boomers take the lead on aging. Becoming gray, is the way. There is a clear destination, and there can be many pitfalls along the way. But at the same time, it can also be blissful and filled with quality. So, know that this path is one that needs preparation and due diligence. Start today.
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“W
hat happens when my money runs out?” A looming question for almost anyone who is retired, and facing a chronic illness or increasing frailty and needing more help around the house. Followed by, “will there be anything left for my children?” Fear of spending money on personal care is commonly seen in a generation that has saved, lived frugally and now, facing the end of life, doesn’t want to lose everything in payment to a home care agency, assisted living, or nursing home. If they don’t run out of money first, mostly everyone wants to pass on a legacy to their children. But, there is also a reality to be faced. People are living into their 80’s and 90’s, and advanced age doesn’t always include good health and mobility. And, mostly everyone wants to live in their own homes until death. One way to do this, once the money starts running low, or expenses start to increase, is to take out a Reverse Mortgage on the house. The Reverse Mortgage uses the equity earned by the home. As long as the homeowners live in the home, the Reverse Mortgage doesn’t have to be paid back. (But, they also need to keep their property taxes and homeowner’s insurance current and the home must be kept in a habitable living condition.) So, it is usually repaid once the homeowner moves out, or dies. When there is a move out, or a death, the mortgage is to be repaid. Usually the house is sold, and the mortgage is repaid from the sale. The money that is left over, after the mortgage is paid off, still belongs to the homeowner, or heirs; not the bank. This can be very helpful for many people over age 62 who that are suffocating on their monthly mortgage payment and wish to eliminate the monthly payment drain on their monthly cash flow. This can also be a very good deal for many people over age 62 who have a very limited income and own their homes free and clear. The money can be taken in one lump sum, as a line of credit, or a monthly allowance
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Reverse Mortgage Pros & Cons
The Reverse Mortgage: When Your Home Equity Can Pay for You to Live at Home or a combination of these options. It can be used for ANYTHING (help with grandchildren’s education, home improvements, a new car, home care, a dream vacation). AARP recommends, however, waiting until age 70 or 80… because if the equity in the home is all that you have left to fall back on, you will want that to last as long as possible. Before taking out a Reverse Mortgage, everyone must undergo a 60 minute counseling session with a HUD approved consumer credit agency. That means that you will be told everything you need to know before you sign any paperwork. And, they want to make sure that all is understood clearly, by everyone.
Pros: Allows the homeowner to stay in the home Can pay off existing mortgages on the home There are alternatives to a Reverse Mortgage that can be considered as well: 1. Equity Sharing. If your adult children have means, they might consider securing a mortgage on your home. The arrangement will provide a parent with cash, and an adult child with an ownership interest in the home. 2. Seriously Consider Selling. Check out all other housing options. Maybe a less costly home (whereby you might want to consider the reverse mortgage for home purchase program to make the downsize affordable)? Renting an apartment? Moving in assistive living or other alternative housing? 3. Public Benefits. Check out benefits available through the Veteran’s Administration and in your local communities to help defray the costs of care at home.
Reverse Mortgage Resources U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development www.hud.gov California Bureau of Real Estate www.dre.ca.gov American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) www.aarp.org National Reverse Mortgage Lenders Association www.reversemortgage.org
Simple to qualify for because no minimum credit score and no income requirements. No monthly mortgage payment as long as homeowners lives in home. Homeowner receives payments on flexible terms: • Credit line for emergencies • Monthly payments • Lump sum distribution • Any combination of the above. Heirs will never be personally responsible for more than the home is sold. Loan proceeds are not taxable.
Cons: The fees on a reverse mortgage are the same as a traditional FHA mortgage, but are higher than a conventional mortgage because of the insurance cost. The largest costs are: FHA mortgage insurance Origination fee. The loan balance gets larger over time, and the value of the estate/ inheritance may decrease over time. Could affect Medi-Cal assistance if too many funds are withdrawn (and not spent), in one month.
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REVERSE MORTGAGE
PUBLICATIONS Prime Time Living Magazine Tracee Stacy, Owner / Publisher 707-449-1270 (See ad on page 17)
Reverse Mortgage Consultant Tom MacDonald 707-265-6385
[email protected] SENIOR CENTERS
REALTORS
American Canyon Senior Center 2185 Elliott Dr. American Canyon, CA 647-4567
Linda Alioto Realtor 1316 Main St, St. Helena, CA 94574 707-694-3541 www.aliotorealty.com Teri Buchanan, Seniors Real Estate Specialist RE/MAX Gold 802 Vallejo Street Napa CA 94559 707 815-1336 http://www.WeSellNapaHomes.com
[email protected] BRE Lic #01326975
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Rianda House Senior Activity Center 1475 Main St., St. Helena 963-8555 Monday– Friday 9 am - 4 pm Info/monthly schedule: www.riandahouse.org Call for current schedule: Daily classes & wellness activities, arts, lectures, board games, exercise, support groups. Congregate meals M, T and F.
Berryessa Senior Center 4380 Spanish Flat Loop Road Lake Berryessa, CA 94558 966-0206 Napa Senior Activity Center 1500 Jefferson St., Napa, CA 94559 255-1800
SENIOR GOVERNMENT California Senior Legislature For information, contact: Area Agency on Aging, Serving Napa and Solano 400 Contra Costa St. Vallejo, CA 94590 255-4284 www.aaans.org Napa County Commission on Aging P.O. Box 312 Napa, CA 94559 (Meets every fourth Monday, 2-4 p.m., Napa County Administration Building, Supervisor’s Chambers, third floor. For more information, call: 967-9532.
Prime Time Living YOUR FREE LOCAL MAGAZINE SERVING ACTIVE & MATURE ADULTS IN NAPA & SOLANO COUNTIES Look for local information about: Health, Travel, Entertainment, Finance, Puzzles, & more
for more info
707-449-1270 PrimeTimeLiving.org
View our digital edition on your tablet with the issuu app or online at primetimeliving.org
Get more out of a
Get more out of a
MEDICARE HEALTHHEALTH PLAN MEDICARE PLAN
than youyou ever thought than ever possible. thought possible.
KaISER PERmaNENTE SENIOR aDVaNTaGE (HmO) aDVaNTaGE (HmO) KaISER PERmaNENTE SENIOR
Questions Questions about Medicare orabout ready to enroll in a Kaiser Permanente Medicare health plan? Medicare or ready to enroll in a Kaise Just give me a call. Just give me a call.
Photo Photo Kalil Macklin Kalil Macklin Here Here Kaiser Permanente Medicare Health Plan Sales Specialist Kaiser Permanente Medicare Health 888-905-0555 TTY 711 888-905-0555 TTY 711
Plan Sales Speciali
kp.org/medicare kp.org/medicare
Kaiser Permanente plan with a Medicare contract. Kaiser Permanente is an HMOis planan withHMO a Medicare contract. Enrollment in Kaiser Permanente dependsEnrollme on contract renewal. You must reside in the Kaiser Permanente Medicare heal contract renewal. You must reside in the Kaiser Permanente Medicare health plan service area in which you enroll. Kaiser Foundation Health Plan, Inc., 393 E. Walnut St., Pasadena, CA 91188 Kaiser Foundation Health Plan, Inc., 393 E. Walnut St., Pasadena, CA 91188-8514. Y0043_N009370_CA accepted
Y0043_N009370_CA accepted
Under no circumstance can a placement size be
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V O
They call themselves, “Small Pleasures,” flowers for the elderly. It all started about fifteen years ago, when someone noticed that buckets of flowers were being culled in the stores, and thrown in the garbage when deemed no longer suitable for sale. The flowers were still in pretty good shape, but with a limited shelf life.
pportunities
The Health Insurance and Counseling Program (HICAP) Trains volunteers to work as counselors in helping seniors with long term care, health and Medicare Insurance. Volunteers needed in Napa County. Call 800-434-0222. Meals on Wheels Home delivered meals. Needs drivers. 253-6111 Napa Valley Hospice and Adult Day Services 414 S.Jefferson St. Napa, CA 94559 258-9080 Napa Ombudsman 255-4236 Needs volunteers to visit and advocate for people in nursing homes, assisted living facilities and board and care homes. Training provided. Share the Care 492-3198 Make a difference in your neighborhood. Share the Care volunteers are asked for a one-year commitment and aretrained to help people in their community to continue living at home as they age. The Volunteer Center 252-6222 www.volunteernapa.org Matches you with volunteer opportunities througorghout Napa Valley. Volunteer once or as often as you like.
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Small Pleasures
olunteer
American Cancer Society 1031Jefferson St. Napa, CA 94559 255-5911
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very Tuesday and Thursday from 10 a.m. until noon, a small group of volunteers gathers around a table in Francoise Bowlby’s Napa backyard to make floral arrangements for delivery to people who are dying and homebound throughout Napa. Sometimes it’s several hundred flowers, other times only a bucketful, but these ladies create a feast for the eyes, and hope It brings a smile to someone’s face. These flowers are rescued from the garbage, and instead of hitting the bottom of the can, are revived for yet another week of life and so much pleasure for many.
Bowlby, a volunteer who started at the project’s birth, knew nothing about arranging flowers, and now is expert enough to professionally arrange for churches and occasions. She’s learned by doing, and at age 81, isn’t even close to retiring. “It’s a fulltime job,” she accedes. Mostly, the flowers come from Lucky’s and Trader Joe’s. She’s tried approaching some of the other markets, but has found, “they don’t like to be bothered. It’s easier to throw them in the garbage then set them aside for us.” “Sometimes they throw out so much… I just wonder. It’s a shame,” she says,
pointing out that several times flowers left over from weddings have also been donated. Currently, flowers are delivered to twelve Napa nursing and board and care homes, the Napa Senior Center, and Napa Valley Hospice delivers individual, smaller arrangements to their patients. Arrangements are made in mugs, vases and baskets. Consignment stores donate the mugs and baskets, and the volunteers check out garage sales for vases. The entire operation is run without money…at least for now. Vases are in short supply, and she could always use more. It’s the people who make the difference, and Bowlby hopes another two volunteers come forward to help. And, of course, she could always work with more flowers. Small Pleasures can be reached at: 254-7629.
Loving Animals Providing Smiles
O
n her 50th birthday, Lisa McWilliams received a photo album with the story of her life from birth to now. In the photos, McWilliams noted that in each and every one, she’s surrounded by animals. That story explains, she reasons, why she’s so involved as a volunteer in the Loving Animals Providing Smiles, (LAPS) and works in a vet’s office as her regular job. Though he’s retired now, her black lab, Nate, used to be her wingdog therapist. His presence in front of people provided comfort and engagement that helped with their feels of loss and loneliness. Together, they worked with older adults, and troubled teens...giving people an opportunity to open up and talk a little, while they petted the dog into happiness. “We get the client to interact with the dog, and vice versa,” explains
McWilliams. :”Sometimes we bring a brush, so the client can brush his hair, or flash cards so they can instruct the dog... like, to sit.” The goal is the engagement between the person and the animal. While Nate is retired because he’s gotten older and likes to sleep most of the day, McWilliams points out that LAPS currently has 24 teams of people/dogs and 3 teams of people and mini-horses. Any kind of pet can be a therapy pet. and they visit people in Napa, Solano and Sonoma Counties. McWilliams points out, too, that not just ANY dog can qualify to be a LAP therapist. “The dogs need to have good manners, obedient skills, and be able to look into a person’s eyes,’ she says. “Each dog also has to be evaluated, then go through the training. The dogs also have annual
exams and are current on all tests and shots.” And, they each get a bath 24-hours before going out. For older adults, they mostly visit nursing facilities and retirement homes. But they are also available to visit people at home. “We can go on a walk together, or just sit and talk People with PTSD might benefit from this kind of therapy, we’ve made it personal and professional.” she said. LAPS can be reached at 265-6642.
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Quality of Life: Index to Articles Residential Care Facilities in Napa Valley.............................22 How to Hire and Keep a Caregiver...............................................24 What Home Care Agencies are Charging in Napa County.........26 Try Mediation when Family Members Argue Over Care..............30 9 Principles of True Health at Any Age...................................39 Veterans Benefits to Pay for Long Term Care..........................39 Ways to Finance Long Term Care..........................................40 Services for Low Income Seniors...............................................41 Hoarding: The Problem with Too Much Stuff..............................42 Medical Cannabis............................................................................43 When Babies Cry.............................................................................44 Understanding Dementia Behavior.................................................44 Questions to Ask When Psychoactive Drugs are Prescribed......45 Love Comes at Twilight...............................................................46 The Life Review as a Family Legacy.....................................47
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ADULT DAY HEALTH CARE Adult Day Health Care is a combination of medical, social and therapy services for adults over age 18, needing assistance in activities of daily living. Additionally, the center is the designated Alzheimer’s Resource Center for Napa County offering counseling, support groups and caregiver education. Napa Valley Hospice and Adult Day Services 414 S. Jefferson St. Napa, CA 94559 258-9080 (See ad on page 48) ADULT PROTECTIVE SERVICES (Where to call if you’re worried about an aging friend/relative and need someone to come out to the home to assess the situation. No charge for assessment. County service.) Comprehensive Services for Older Adults 900 Coombs St. #257 Napa, CA 94558 253-4625 or 1-800-498-9455 APS Hotline: 1-888-619-6913
• Caregiver Support Groups • Family and Community Education • Training Program for Professionals • Family Care Planning • Early Stage Support Group Program • MedicAlert+SAFE RETURN Identification Program • Annual Education Conferences: s Spring - Sonoma County s Fall - Napa County
Serving Marin, Sonoma, and Napa counties
24-Hour Helpline 1.800.272.3900
Alzheimer’s Disease Education And Referral Center P.O. Box 8250 Silver Spring, MD 20907 800-438-4380 Napa Valley Hospice and Adult Day Services 414 S. Jefferson St. Napa, CA 94559 258-9080 Free caregiver consultations and memory screenings. Meet with a social worker for a private individual or family consultation for those who have questions about memory loss, loss of independence, driving and other senior care issues. Appointments must be scheduled? 258-9087/ (See ad on page 48) U.C. Davis, Northern California Alzheimer’s Disease Center UC-Davis, Dept. of Neurology 150 Muir Rd., Martinez 925-372-2485 (information) Comprehensive assessment and evaluation for Alzheimer’s Disease and other dementias. ALZHEIMER’S CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUPS
ALZHEIMER’S INFORMATION REFERRAL & EDUCATION
(See support groups page 38) ALZHEIMERS RESIDENTIAL CARE FACILITIES
All Seniors Safe and Sound Napa, CA 815.2534 allseniorssafeandsound.com (See ad on page 34) Alzheimer’s Association 1211 North Dutton Suite A Santa Rosa, CA 95401 573-1210 (See ad on page 19)
(See Assisted Living Comparison on page 22, and Board and Care Homes) Aegis Assisted Living 2100 Redwood Rd. Napa, CA 94558 251-1409 (See ad on page 20)
the Greenhills Care Home .............................
Residential Care Facility .....................
Welcome to Our Family!
www.alz.org/norcal Santa Rosa Office 1211 North Dutton Ave. Suite A Santa Rosa, CA 95401 707.573.1210
License 280111959
Our residents are part of our family at Greenhills. We hope that if you choose Greenhills, you will consider us part of your extended family, and Greenhills your home away from home.
Information, Referral, Support
San Rafael Office 4340 Redwood Highway Suite D-314 San Rafael, CA 94903 415.472.4340
Continued on Page 20
Providing care for the elderly including specialized care for Alzheimer’s and Dementia
Phone/Fax: 707-558-8487
115 Thayer Way American Canyon, CA 94503
20 Quality of Life
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2300 Brown Street Napa, CA 94558 252-9037 (See ad on page 21)
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Camino Alto Residence Club 105 Power Dr. Vallejo, Ca 94589 643-7617 www.camino-alto.com (See ad on page 22) Greenhills Care Home 115 Thayer Way American Canyon, Ca 94503 558-8487 (See ad on page 19)
The Greenest Lawn on the Block Dad took great pride in having the best looking lawn in our neighborhood. He would mow, fertilize, weed, and water until our front yard looked like a putting green. Our yard was the envy of the neighborhood. He spent evenings after dinner with his pipe and the garden hose. I still love the scent of tobacco and grass clippings. Now Dad watches from the window as his lawn turns brown. The moss has taken over and his garden hose lies coiled and unused by the side of the house. He slowly shuffles, bent over with a cane, and cannot keep up with the chores of a 3-bedroom home, let alone, keeping up the lawn care. He needs help with the simplest of daily tasks: food prep, housework and transportation. Living alone in that big house is just too much for him. If an elderly parent needs daily assistance – maybe they’re not independent any more. Please consider Áegis Living. We are the trusted local senior care provider specializing in assisted living and memory care. We offer the finest care, given by the most committed staff. Come in for a tour and lunch with your parent. Let them experience our community filled with warmth and new friends. Call our residence for an appointment or more information.
Áegis of Napa 2100 Redwood Rd. Napa, CA 94558
707-266-6868
AegisofNapa.com RCFE #286803028
The Meadows Memory Care 2000 Atrium Parkway Napa, CA 94559 320-2079 www.meadowsofnapavalley.org (See ad on page 10) Vintage House 2541 Vintage St. Napa, CA 94558 265-8652 (See ad on page 21)
Wine Country Seniors Villa 3552Napa JeffersonCounty St. 2015 Napa, CA 94558 226-3055 (See ad on page 21) ASSISTED LIVING Aegis Assisted Living 2100 Redwood Rd. Napa, CA 94558 251-1409 www.aegisofnapa.com (See ad on page 21) The Berkshire 2300 Brown Street Napa, CA 94558 252-9037 (See ad on page 21) Camino Alto Residence Club 105 Power Dr. Vallejo, Ca 94589 643-7617 www.camino-alto.com (See ad on page 22) The Meadows of Napa Valley Assisted Living at The Villas 1800 Atrium Parkway Napa, CA 94558 320-2175 www.retirement.org/Napa Not-for-Profit Community (See ad on page 10)
Napa Valley Senior Care, Inc. For more information about our in-home care services and our residential care facilities, or to schedule a free in-home consultation, please call:
Kits Roa, Licensee/Administrator
707/265-8652 or 510/333-8509 Email:
[email protected] www.napavalleyseniorcare.com
“Providing the Finest in Personal Care” BOARD & CARE FACILITIES
IN-HOME CARE & ASSISTANCE
• Private & Semi-private, attractive & comfortable rooms • Ambulatory and Non-ambulatory • Trained & compassionate staff • Respite Care, Dementia Care, Hospice Care
• • • • • • •
Two great locations in the heart of Napa Valley: Wine Country Senior’s Villa (RCFE#286801534) Vintage House (RCFE#286802049)
Personal Care & Assistance Laundry & Light Housekeeping Assistance with Medication Meal Preparation Companionship Errands & Shopping Transportation to Medical/Dental Appointments • All Staff Criminal Background Checked & Trained in First Aid
Wine Country Senior’s Villa: 3552 Jefferson St, Napa Vintage House: 2541 Vintage St., Napa
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Piner’s Guest Home 1800 Pueblo Ave. Napa, CA 94558 224-7925 (See ad on Inside Front Cover) ASSISTED LIVING COMPLAINTS Department of Social Services Community Care Licensing Division 101 Golf Course Drive Suite A-230 Santa Rosa, CA 95401 588-5026 Napa Long Term Care Ombudsman 1443 Main St., #125 Napa, CA 94558 255-4236 Volunteers serve as patient advocates in providing assistance with quality of life issues. The ombudsman office also maintains a binder of citations and actions against local residential care facilities. (See ad on page 32) BOARD AND CARE HOMES (See also Assisted Living) A Hidden Knoll 3158 Browns Valley Road Napa, CA 94558 257-1354 B Home Assisted Living 3679 Parrett Ave. Napa, CA Care Home: 254-9002 Office: 254-9820 (See ad on page 23) Camino Alto Residence Club 105 Power Dr. Vallejo, CA 94589 643-7617 www.camino-alto.com (See ad on page 22) Greenhills Care Home 115 Thayer Way American Canyon, CA 94503 558-8487 (See ad on page 19) Hearts That Matter Care Home 2025 Clay St. Napa, Ca 94558 Contact: Kim Geis 252-7569 www.heartsthatmatter.com (See ad on page 3)
Napa Valley Senior Care, Inc. 707-265-8652 or 510-333-8509 (See ad on page 21) The Vintage House 2541 Vintage St. Napa, CA 94558 Wine Country Senior’s Villa 3552 Jefferson St. Napa, CA 94558
Quality of Life 21
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Piner’s Guest Home 1820 Pueblo St. Napa, CA 94558 255-3461 (See ad on Inside Front Cover) St Helena Home Care 2011 Olive Ave. St. Helena, CA 94574 707-738-9555 (See ad on page 22)
CANCER SUPPORT (See also Support Groups, Page 38) Cancer Case Management Queen of the Valley Medical Center 251-2012 (See ad on page 33)
Continued on Page 23
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RESIDENTIAL CARE FACILITIES IN NAPA VALLEY ASSISTED LIVING Aegis of Napa 2100 Redwood Rd. Napa, CA 94558 707-251-1409 www.aegisofnapa.com Contact Jennifer Winters Victorian retirement community offers Assisted Living and Memory Care services. Conveniently located minutes from medical facilities and shopping centers. Rental rates include homemade healthy meals, snacks, housekeeping and laundry services, personalized and unique activities, and local transportation. Care fees are additional and are based on a personalized assessment. Respite/Short term stay $185 per day Shared rooms starting at $3100 Studios starting at $4200 1 bedrooms starting at $5700 The Berkshire 2300 Brown St. Napa, CA 94558 252-9037 Contact: Lia Miller This is an assisted living community that also offers Alzheimer’s and Dementia care. Assisted Living rates for a shared room start at $2,995 per month and private room rates begin at $3650.00 Additional fees for Dementia care based on resident needs. Rates include meals, snacks, weekly housekeeping, laundry services, planned activities, medication management and local
scheduled transportation. Special diets are available. Respite/Short-term Care and hospice waiver. No community fee. Pets allowed.
Piner’s Guest Home 1820 Pueblo St. Napa, CA 94558 255-3461
Camino Alto Residence Club 105 Power Dr. Vallejo, Ca 94589 643-7617
Piner’s Guest Home Rates
Assisted Living starting at $2500 per month (shared room), $3,600 per month (private room), plus $800 for dementia care, $450 for cognitive impaired, $550 for inconntinent care. Dementia/ Alzheimer starting at $3200 a month, Respite ($175/day), Hospice ($5500 in private room). 34 rooms. $1000 community fee. The Meadows Assisted Living and Memory Care 2000 Atrium Parkay Napa, CA 94559 320-2175 www.retirement.org/Napa Not for Profit Community Four levels of care in a 20-acre park-like setting. Independent living, assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing. No buy-in, month-to-month rent. 63 Assisted living apartments, 20 private memory care apartments. 1 bedroom starting at $4,734-$5,034 2 bedroom starting at $5,453-$6311 Second person fee $946
Assisted Livi Trisha R. Beard Administrator
[email protected]
CLU B
ng, Dementia, and Hospice Care • Vallejo
Serving Our Seniors Since 1985
BASE RATE Semi-Private $80/day Private $130/day OPTIONAL SERVICES $46.00 per point (Points to be assessed by resident evaluation) Non-Occupied Bed Hold Rates Semi-Private $62.00/day Private $112.00/day Security Deposit Required for Residents Semi-Private $2,400 Private $3,900 Beauty Shop Services available each Friday. BOARD AND CARE HOMES B Home Assisted Living 3679 Parrett Ave., Napa Care Home: 254-9002 Office: 254-9820 Bhomeassistedliving.com Premium Assisted Living in Board and Care environment. 24 hour care and assistance. Activities, generous food with specialty diets, all house keeping, personal assistance, compassionate care. Custom care plans developed by experienced care givers. Private rooms, when available, from $4,500. Shared rooms, when available, from $3,500. Care fees adjusted based upon care needs. Hospice service available. Greenhills Care Home 115 Thayer Way American Canyon, Ca 94503 558-8487
Camino Alto RESIDENCE
Assisted Living Facility Lic # 486801896
A Residential Care Home for Seniors, also specializing in Alzheimer’s / Dementia, Hospice & Respite Care
Private & Semi-Private Rooms with Bathrooms • Emergency Call System 3 Nutritious Meals & Snacks a Day • Full Activity & Social Program 24-Hour Personal Assistance • Housekeeping & Laundry 105 Power Drive | Vallejo | Located 2 blocks from Kaiser and Sutter Hospitals
www.camino-alto.com
Hearts That Matter Care Home 2025 Clay St. Napa, Ca 94558 252-7569 Contact: Kim Geis This home takes people with Alzheimer’s, dementia and hospice care. Assisted Living rooms range from $3,500-$5,800. Depends on room and assessment. Furnished and unfurnished accommodations. Large rooms. Napa Valley Senior Care, Inc.: Vintage House 2541 Vintage St. Napa, CA 94558 265-8652 Wine Country Senior’s Villa 3552 Jefferson St. Napa, CA 94558 226-3055 Contact: Kits Roa Both facilities accept all levels of Alzheimer’s and dementia. Fee for basic services, private rooms, $3,800 a month, shared room, $2,800. Includes meals, snacks, activities, laundry, housekeeping, most care, cable TV, manicures and hairstyling. Rates assessed monthly. No community fee. St. Helena Home Care 2011 Olive Ave St. Helena, CA 94574 738-9555 Rooms start at $3,000/month. Includes meals, snacks, activities, housekeeping, laundry and most personal care. No community fee. Alzheimer’s and hospice care specialists.
Alzheimer’s and Dementia specialty facility. Shared room $2500. Private Room $2800. Additional rates based on care assessment prior to admittance. No community or add-on fees. Includes
Designed around the needs & wishes of today’s Seniors. Ambulatory & Non-Ambulatory
(707) 643-7617
transportation to medical appointments. Administrator Kam Gantan personally accompanies each resident to all medical appointments. This is a family-run establishment.
2011 Olive Avenue St. Helena CA 94574 RCFE# 286801593
Saint Helena Home Care, LLC Residential Care Facility for the Elderly .. Assistance with medication .. 24 Hour Care Experienced Caregivers to appointments .. Transportation .. Healthy Home Cooked Meals Assistance with daily tasks Plan of Operation Planned activities . Dementia Ambulatory and Non ambulatory rooms . Hospice Waiver 707-738-9555 or 707-688-6234
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CANCER SUPPORT cont. American Cancer Society Napa and Lake Counties 860 Napa Valley Corporatae Way, Ste. E Napa, CA 94558 The American Cancer Society offers FREE programs and services to cancer patients and their caregivers. Call for transportation to treatment appointments, assistance with appearance-related side effects, or for information or referral 24 hours a day. 1-800-ACS-2345 or visit www.cancer.org CARE MANAGEMENT / PLANNING All Seniors Safe and Sound Napa, CA 815.2534 allseniorssafeandsound.com (See ad on page 34)
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Area Agency on Aging Serving Napa Solano Family Caregiver Support Program Multipurpose Senior Services Program (MSSP) 255-4284 www.aaans.org These programs provide help for paying for services, minor home modifications, grab bars and ramps on a limited basis. People who are disabled and/or over age 60 could qualify for services. Some services depend on income. (See ad on page 7) Cancer Care Management Queen of the Valley Hospital Medical Center 251-2012 (See ad on page 33) Yvonne Baginski Caregiver Consultant P.O. Box 6863 Napa, CA 94581 226-7127 (See ad on page 8)
B Home Assisted Living It is our mission to care, thoughtfully
Quality of Life 23
Creative Counseling For Elders and Families, Inc. 707-239-2310 www.creativecounseling.org (See ad on page 9) Share The Care 492-3198 (See ad on Inside Back Cover) Share the Care, available throughout Napa Valley, matches people to the help they need. This is a FREE services, privately funded by the Gasser Foundation. Share the Care will assist in finding: rides, companionship, home care, legal assistance, counseling, gardening and handyman services, home repairs, medical equipment, grocery pickup and delivery, mail management and paperwork, support groups, meals, activities and whatever else might be needed. Coordinates assistance, and builds relationships with neighbors and community.
CAREGIVER SUPPORT SERVICES All Seniors Safe and Sound Napa, CA 815.2534 allseniorssafeandsound.com (See ad on page 34) CAREGIVERS FOR HIRE ABBA In-Home Care 1055 Azuar Dr. Vallejo, CA 704-6489 (See ad on page 26) Alegre Home Care 800-598-4777 ApexCare 2220 Boynton Ave., Suite A Fairfield, CA 94533 707-421-9111 www.apexcare.com (See ad on page 27)
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3679 Parrett Ave., Napa Care Home: 707-254-9002 Office: 707-254-9820
For every guest:
Mark Gasster, Administrator
• Preparation of nutritious meals meeting guest-specific dietary requirements. • Daily activities and assistance with hygiene and grooming. • Laundry service and room cleaning. • Furnished rooms (or guests may bring some of their own furnishings & belongings.) • Medication assistance. • Engaging and caring staff. • Clean and comfortable home-style environment. • Supervision and 24-hour awake staff, as necessary.
Care, compassion and dignity for our guests - our guiding principles. bhomeassistedliving.com
Califoria License #286803457
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CAREGIVERS FOR HIRE cont. Area Agency on Aging Caregiver Referral Registry 255-4284 (See ad on page 7) Compassion Home Health Care Ramona Brennan, Caregiver Non-Medical Services 253-2758 Cora Home Companion Care 310 Mark Way Napa, CA 994558 707-255-6260 707-363-2220 (See ad on page 27) Healthy Living at Home 1320 Willow Pass Rd., Suite 715 Concord, Ca 94520 877-513-7363
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Hearts that Matter, Inc. 68 Coombs St., Suite A-9 Napa, CA 94559 (707) 252-7569 Contact: Kim or Peggy www.heartsthatmatter.com (See ad on page 3) Hired Hands Homecare 1754 Second St. Napa, Ca 94558 265-6400 (See ad on page 27) Home Instead Senior Care 3433 Broadway, Suite B-1 American Canyon, CA 94503 252-3322 www.homeinstead.com/521 (See ad on page 28) In-Home Supportive Services 259-8365 Love & Joy Senior Services 342-5613 www.loveandjoyseniorcare.com (See ad on page 25)
Margarita Vinalay Penaloza Independent Caregiver, Licensed 707-294-9170 Precious Home Companion 1280 Boulevard Way, Suite 104 Walnut Creek, CA 94595 800-321-6655 / 925-939-0197 www.precioushome.com (See ad on page 28)
Your Home…Nursing Services 3188 Jefferson St. Napa, CA 94558 224-7780 www.yourhomenursing.com (See ad on page 24) CAREGIVER GROUPS (See Support Groups)
Professional Health Care at Home 190 S. Orchard Ave., Suite A-105 Vacaville, CA 95687 707-447-4228 www.professionalhc.com (See ad on page 27) Sequoia Senior Solutions 1372 N.McDowell Blvd., Suite S Petaluma, CA 94954 707-763-6600
CHORE SERVICES In-Home Supportive Services This service is for aged, 65+ or disabled people whose income and assets are low and need housework or personal care to remain safely at home. Employment possible for those wanting to provide those services. 259-8359
Visiting Angels 1827 Clay St. Napa, CA 94558 707-528-0222 (See ad on page 25)
KEEPING YOU AT HOME Home Care Services
Homemakers/Caregivers to Nursing Services Home Care at Its Very Best!
State Licensed
(The only license that sets the standard for Home Care)
Complimentary Skilled Nursing Assessment (It’s a nurse that’s educated / trained to evaluate Your Home Health Needs)
Skilled Home Care Services Wound Care Injections Colostomy/Catheter Care Tube Feedings Tracheostomy/Ventilator Services/Suctioning Diabetic Management Medication Management Post Surgical Care ...and More!
Assist with ADL’s/Bathing Assist with Medications Promote Safety Alzheimer’s/Dementia Care Post-Hospital/Surgical Care Hospice Supportive Services ...and More!
Non-Medical Home Care Services Taking Care of the Home Meal Preparation Grocery Shopping Transportation/Errands Companionship Loving Pet Care ...and More!
All Levels of Care
Your Care Managed by an RN Certified Alzheimer’s Whisperers ...a Loving and Gentle Approach to Caring for Alzheimer’s / Dementia Patients
.
State Licensed Family Owned
. Since 1989
224 -7780
963-4913
www.YourHomeNursing.com
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In 2013 a law was passed in California that regulates caregivers. It became effective January 1st of this year and covers all domestic employees. Known as AB 241, the law covers minimum wage, overtime, rest and safety precautions. Become acquainted with the provisions of the law when hiring a caregiver.
4. Before the Interview
1. Create a team Enlist the help of your loved one. Don’t assume you know what she needs. If you have siblings, ask for their help. See yourself as part of a team rather than one who orchestrates the entire situation. That being said, when you have 1 or 2 persons handle key issues, this can be a valuable way to expedite certain matters and avoid circular conversations.
2. Determine your needs The first step is to develop a plan of care for your loved one. Here are some of the questions you and your team need to decide: Does your mother need part time or full time care? Does she need care during the day? Does she need to be available only during the night? How many days a week does she need help? Determine if your mother needs a companion, a caregiver or someone with
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3. Know the Law
ou see the signs that your aging elder loved one needs help. Maybe she’s fallen. Or her home isn’t as tidy as it used to be. If she’s suffered a serious medical condition-the need for help may be urgent. Hiring outside help is not easy for anyone. Mother may not want to lose her independence. You may work a full time job and have limited time available to attend to the issues at hand. Here are a few tips that I hope will make the task ahead a bit easier for you:
HOW TO HIRE AND KEEP A CAREGIVER: 7 things you need to know By Jeannie Thomas a medical background. Does she need someone who has a car and can drive her to medical appointments and social functions? Does she need someone who can cook or clean? Is a CNA or Nurse needed? Is there special equipment the caregiver should know how to operate? Is there a preference for a male or female caregiver? Would your loved one be more comfortable with a young person or an older person? Does the age of the caregiver matter?
Whether you hire a caregiver directly or use the services of an Agency or Placement Service, you will have the opportunity to interview the caregiver. If you are using an Agency, I suggest you request that they find 3 candidates for you to interview. Have your “needs list” available for the interview! Be very clear about who you are looking for and what they need to do.
5. The Interview As much as possible, you’ll want the qualifications of the applicant to match your loved one’s needs. I find it helpful to learn about the caregiver’s background. I like to know her hobbies and interests. This gives me a sense of her personality. If your loved one likes to be inside, reading, playing scrabble and watching afternoon TV, she might not be content with someone who prefers to be busy all the time. Then, again, if she values being alone, she may prefer a caregiver who likes to busy herself with light projects around the home.
6. Keeping a Good Caregiver Professional Caregiving
. Napa Eldercare Resources
CALL TODAY! (707) 528-0222
(Napa County Compliant--screened, bonded, Insured) 1827 Clay Street, Napa, CA 94559 web: search: “Visiting Angels, Napa”
Quality of Life 25
Most caregivers are kind, helpful people. Recognition and acknowledgment for their work will go a long way in keeping a good caregiver. Get to know them and surprise them in thoughtful ways. Many Agencies have policies that their caregivers cannot accept gifts. But what about a visit during the day with their favorite Starbucks and an offer for them to take an hour break while you visit with your mother. Keeping their favorite snack food on hand is a nice way to say, “I appreciate you.” You might even ask the Agency for permission to give the caregiver a gift.
Noticing what your caregiver does in her own unique way is a delightful way to honor them. Has mom commented that her caregiver cleans her eye glasses every day? Does she have a knack for anticipating needs? Is the kitchen always in order since she was hired? Let the caregiver know you know!
7. Regular Evaluations In any work situation, evaluations are useful for acknowledging what is working, introducing areas that may need improvement and addressing situations that have changed. Let your caregiver know from the beginning that you’ll be getting together with them-on a regular basis that you decide-to review the caregiving situation. This is a wonderful opportunity for each of you to check in and see what’s working and identify areas where the situation seems to be changing. It takes courage and stamina to make the caregiving experience a good one. When conducted with intent, grace and dignity you, your team members and your caree will expand your life experience in positive and rewarding ways. Good luck to you! Jeannie Thomas is an author and consultant whose commitment is to inspire, inform and assist the elderly and their caregivers.
For more information, go to www.theinspiredcaregiver.NET READ JEANNIE’S BOOK (available on Amazon.com)
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WHAT HOME CARE AGENCIES ARE CHARGING FOR SERVICES IN NAPA Getting help at home is usually the first thing that people think about when chores and/or personal care is becoming difficult or impossible. Housekeepers, gardeners and occasional handymen are the easiest for most of us to consider because they don’t carry the psychological burden of no longer being able to do for ourselves. Caregivers can be resisted because of cost, fear of loss of independence, autonomy and privacy, or just due to stubbornness and personal will. While most prefer a family member or prior knowledge of the caregiver, this may not always be possible. Family members might have good intentions, and while promises are made, commitments may be more difficult to keep. It’s may not be the best thing to have a family member, friend or neighbor as a caregiver. The most reliable solution is hiring outside assistance with a regular schedule. This way, family members remain as family and others can be counted on to do the hands-on work. There are many choices in help at home. If looking to hire privately, there’s a caregiver referral service out of the Area Agency on Aging. Discharge planners, hospices, social workers also know of people who might want to work privately. If hired privately, the hours worked and wages paid are between you and the employee. You are also liable for worker’s compensation and IRS withholding.
Born To Age doesn’t list these prices because the costs are directly reimbursed by Medicare. You are not billed for services.
PRIVATE DUTY HOME CARE AGENCIES These agencies provide both skilled and non-skilled care. The services might be covered by long term care insurance, other insurances, and private pay. The agency is the employer. Caregivers are hired, screened and paid for by the agency. If the caregiver is ill or unable to work, a substitute caregiver is available. The agency pays payroll taxes, worker’s compensation, and maintains liability coverage. The agency also determines what the caregiver can and can’t do. There is often a minimum number of hours for services.
Healthy Living at Home 1320 Willow Pass Rd. Ste. 715 Concord, CA 94520 877-513-7363 www.healthylivingservices.org Professional HealthCare at Home 190 S. Orchard Ave. Suite A-105 Vacaville, CA 95687 Office: 707-447-4228 Cell: 707-280-3287 Fax: 707-447-5923 www.professionalhc.com
Here’s a brief rundown on the types of agencies in Napa County. NAPA COUNTY HOME HEALTH AGENCIES These agencies provide services that are 100% covered by Medicare, Med-cal or private health insurance. This service must be ordered by a doctor. However, you still have a personal choice of agency. Requirements to qualify for care are: 1: Homebound, 2. Need for skilled care. Skilled care means that you need a nurse, a physical, speech or occupational therapist. This is also a time and visit limited services. Some aide service can be available, if there’s a skilled need. This is a service NOT covered by Long Term Care Insurance.
St. Helena Hospital Home Health Care 27 Woodland Rd. St. Helena, CA 94574 967-5770
Care provided by these agencies can include: skilled care, personal care, transportation/errands, meal preparation, medication reminders, light housekeeping, laundry, etc. Shifts can be hourly, live-in or sleepover.
Sooner
When You Want to Get Back to Life,
Quality Service, Family Owned, Great Reputation
_________________________________________________
If you or a loved one has suffered a serious illness or are coping with
Abba In-Home Care Services • Personalized Care At Your Own Home • Flexible Hours, Live-In or Hourly • Employees, Bonded and Insured • Free Board and Care Placements
Please Call: 707-704-6489 Visit our Website at www.abbahomehealth.com We are serving Contra Costa, Marin, Napa, Solano, Sonoma, Yolo and Sacramento Counties. Our hourly rate starts from $24.00 per hour and $240.00 for live-in per day.
W W W. S T H E L E N A H O S P I TA L S . O R G
a chronic medical condition, we can help. Adventist Health Home Care Services can help you or your loved one stay in your home while receiving the skilled medical care you need. Our team of nurses and therapists offer treatment as well as education to help you remain independent in your home.
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WHAT HOME CARE AGENCIES ARE CHARGING FOR SERVICES IN NAPA Abba In Home Care Services 1055 Azuar Dr. Vallejo, CA 707-704-6489 www.abbahomehealth.com Abba In Home Care offers in-home, non-medical caregiver services. All employees are bonded, insured and will work flexible hours, either live in or hourly. Rates start at $25 an hour, and $250 for 24-hour live in. Also offers board and care home placements without charge. Serves Contra Costa, Marin, Napa, Solano, Sonoma, Yolo and Sacramento Counties. www.abbahomehealth.com or email
[email protected] ApexCare 2220 Boynton Ave., Suite A Fairfield, CA 94533 707-425-1773 or 877-916-9111 www.apexcare.com For over twenty years ApexCare has proudly served the senior community. If you can’t decide whether to stay at OVER
Excellence in Elder Care
home or move to a care facility, our professional, knowledgeable staff are there to guide you every step of the way. Offer FREE in home care assessments and FREE Care Facility referrals. ApexCare is licensed, bonded, and carries full liability insurances. Caregivers are thoroughly screened including a complete background check, verification of employment history, education, training, work experience, photo ID, Social Security verification, TB clearance, clean DMV report and auto insurance verification. On-going caregiving training required by all caregiving staff. There are no minimum hours. Price ranges from 1 hour to 24 hour Live-In Services: 1 hour: $40, 2 hours: $67-72, 3 hours, $72-78. A 12 hour shift is $238 and 24 hour/ Live-In shift is $341. Multiple locations in Northern California, including: Alameda, Contra Costa, El Dorado, Marin, Napa, Nevada, Placer, Sacramento, San Francisco, San Joaquin, Santa Clara, San Mateo, Solano, Stanislaus, and Yolo.
Cora Home Companion Care 310 Mark Way Napa, CA 255-6260 363-2220 This is a non-medical home companion providing personal care in your home. Rates, $17 an hour Minimum, four-hour shift. Live-in care $260, depends on level of care and needs of patient. Hearts that Matter, Inc. 68 Coombs St., Suite A-9 Napa, CA 94559 (707) 252-7569 Contact: Kim or Peggy www.heartsthatmatter.com This agency provides caregivers to assist with all activities of daily living. This can include dressing, bathing, meal preparation, bed care as well as daily
supervision. Rates range depending on the number of hours per shift. 4-12 hour shift costs $25/hr., 12 hours or more $22/hr. 24-Hour care rates are $325 per day. All of our rates are negotiable upon a special request. This agency is Private pay. They will accept and bill Long Term Care insurance policies. Caregivers are all criminally background checked; CPR and First aid certified and mandated elder abuse reporters. Caregiver working in Napa County must obtain a caregiver permit. Hired Hands Homecare 1754 Second Street Napa, CA 94559 707-265-6400 Contact: V. Lynn Cox Hired Hands Homecare is a family owned and operated, full service
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Serving These Northern California Counties Alameda Contra Costa El Dorado Marin Napa Placer Sacramento San Francisco San Joaquin Santa Clara San Mateo Solano Stanislaus Yolo
For over twenty years ApexCare has proudly served the senior community. If you can’t decide whether to stay at home or move to a care facility, our professional, knowledgeable staff are there to guide you every step of the way.
(877) 916–9111 | www.apexcare.com
Cora Home Companion Care 363-2220 255-6260
Providing caring and compassionate assistance with meal preparation, personal hygiene/showers, shopping/errands, companionship, medication, treatment/therapy, housekeeping, and medical appointments.
Call Us. We Care.
Care available 2 to 24 hours a day. Reduced rates for 12 to 24 hour shifts.
“ I like everything about Hired Hands Homecare. It's the way they do their job. The caregivers and office staff are awesome. They are my eyes and ears, and are fantastic with letting me know any concerns or issues. The caregivers are very good, kind, and most professional.”
~ Richard M., June 2014
707-265-6400 www.HiredHandsHomecare.com
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WHAT HOME CARE AGENCIES ARE CHARGIN WHAT HOME CARE AGENCIES ARE CHARGING FOR SERVICES IN NAPA homecare company, providing a wide range of caregiving services for over 17 years. All Caregivers are employees, and are thoroughly screened, insured, and bonded. Caregivers available on a flexible hourly, overnight, and live-in basis. Hourly care starts @ $26.00 per hour, and 24 hour care starts at $351. Serving the entire North Bay, with office in Marin, Sonoma, & Napa counties. Complimentary case management, needs assessment, and home safety evaluation provided at no cost. Members of the National Private Duty Association (NPDA), the California Association for Health Services at Home (CAHSAH) and the Better Business Bureau (BBB).
Home Instead Senior Care 33433 Broadway, Suite B-1 American Canyon, CA 94563 707-552-2266 www.homeinstead.com Provides service in Napa, Solano and Sonoma Counties. This is a private duty home care agency that provides services such as personal care and grooming, errands, medication reminders, incidental transportation, light housekeeping and companionship. Accepts Long term care insurance. Care givers are employees of the company, so complete supervision and management is provided and all taxes and insurance is included. All employees are screened for criminal and driving records, as well as TB tested. Ongoing training is provided to all employees. They provide 24
Caregivers experienced hour phoneare support for after and hourgo through thorough reference checks, emergencies. Rates range from $20 social security card number checks $25 per hour, $350 per day for live in. and criminal background checks. All are&insured, bonded, valid Love Joy Senior Carehave Services driver’s licenses, and work under the 340 Northrup Pl. supervision of the staff nurse. CNAs American Canyon, CA 94503 and caregivers&with experience 707-342-5613 925-408 7122 with Alzheimer’s and Dementia Contact: Jennie Falcon patients are available. Senior Helpers has a formal love&joyseniorcare.com training program for its caregivers with for dementia and care Lovecertification & Joy is a private duty home Alzheimer’s care, led by nationallyand board & care placement agency. recognized expert Rates rangedementia from $18-21 perTeepa hour, Snow. Free assessments. Rates run three-hour minimum. Live-in/24-hour between and $25. No minimum. rate from$23 $200/day. Accepts checks, Live-in caregivers are also available at a cash, credit cards, and insurance. rate $320. and safety Freebetween in-home $260assessments
checks. Caregivers are bonded, insured, ResCare Home Care and background checked. Provide (Formerly Home Care) services forNightingale Dementia/Alzheimer’s 1521 Contra Costa Blvd. Care, personal care, companionship, Pleasant Hill, CA transportation, and94523 hospice care. (925) 685-5577 Licensed nurse conducts caregiver supervisory visits, regular client check3730 Mt advocates Diablo Blvd., #320with client’s ins, and for care Lafayette, CA doctors. (925) 283-5076
Napa Valley Senior Care, Inc. ResCare HomeSt., Care is the largest, 2541 Vintage privately owned, award winning home Napa, CA care company in the nation. Bay 226-3055, 510-333-8509 Area offices are open seven days a week. both Medicare certified This is aOffer private duty, nonmedical home health care and private duty home care agency. Rates: $18-25/ home care. All levels of care offered, hour. Minimum 4-hour shift. $200-280 from Alzheimers’s to staying with a for 24-hour care. All caregivers area child sick from school. Offers a Safe criminal background checked, (FBI Hospital Discharge ProgramTB-tested, and and Department of Justice), Life Management Programs to help prevent re-admissions to hospitals. Free
We’re by your side so your parents can stay at home. •
Whether you are looking for someone to help an aging parent a few hours a week, or need more comprehensive assistance, Home Instead can help. .
Call for a free, no-obligation appointment
707.252.3322
Each Home Instead Senior Care ® franchise office is independently owned and operated. ©2013 Home Instead, Inc.
care is manag $125 a memb of Ame reliable duty h for lon the Aid Vetera a free
approved agency. Since 1990, Precious Sutter Companion Care At Home a not-for-profit Home is aisfull-service organization providing home health, home care agency. All caregivers hospice, home infusion therapy, are payrolled, insured, bonded,with respiratoryCompensation care, home medical Worker’s and criminally equipment, privateinclude duty background Lifeline, checked.and Services care. Private duty services are offered personal care, including assistance in in Alameda, Contradressing, Costa, and Marin bathing, grooming, exercise counties. All employees are screened, and homemaking services such as including professional reference light housekeeping, meal preparation verifications, criminal background and errand services. Medication checks, a driving history, a Social management, pre/post surgery services, Security trace, and drug testing. memory care, hospice care and Home aides receive ongoing and companionship. Rates training start at $18/hour are supervised by care managers who for Live-Out Program; Live-In Program are nurses or social workers. Services starts at $180/day, and Sleepover starts include: personal (such as at $150/night. Freecare assessment. assistance with dressing and bathing), 24-hour client phone support. light housekeeping, meal preparation, transportation to appointments and other errands. These services start at $25 an hour, with a minimum of four-hours/day and 12-hours/week. Hourly awake-shifts are available 24-hours a day; live-in
These caregi person baths, provid as priv howev emplo finds a
Walnut Creek, Ca 94595 Sutter Care AtorHome 925-939-0197 800-321-6655 2100 Embarcadero, Suite 101 www.precioushome.com Oakland, CA 94606 Oakland: 510.652.3317 Serving Contra Costa, Alameda, Contra Costa County: 925.945.8855 Marin, Napa, Solano, Sacramento Alameda County: 510.536.3377 Counties. A member of Better Business Toll Free: Bureau, and800.698.1273 2008-2009 Gilbert Guide
50% OFF for the 1st day with a minimum of 10 days of service. Live In starts at $180/day Live Out starts at $18/hour
50% off for the 1st day of service
Services Include: • Companionship • Meal Preparation • Shopping and Errands • Light Housekeeping • Medication Reminders • Incidental Transportation • Personal Care
Medication Programs with receive first Management aid and CPR and medication free medication home delivery. Also assistance training. Bonded and offer a remote giving program at trained in caringcare for elderly. Wheelchair $10 an hour for telephone reminders. transportation available. Prices start at $10.00 an hour for remote and $23.00-$24.00 an hour for Precious Home Companion hands on care giving. 1280 Boulevard Way, Suite 104
Live-in, Hourly or Sleepover Care
Offer valid for first time services with a minimum of 10 days for live-in care or 80 hours for hourly care. Offer expires 12/31/2008.
HomeInstead.com/521
• 24 hours / 7days service Live In /Live Out / Sleepover • Personal Care, Mobility Assistance, Companionship • Employees are payrolled, insured, bonded, worker’s comp • Memory Care, Pre and Post Surgery Care, Hospice Care • Well Screened Employees with Criminal Background Checked • No AGENCY FEES / FREE ASSESSMENT and EVALUATION
1-800-321-6655 24 years of quality service
www.precioushome.com
1280 Boulevard Way, Suite 104, Walnut Creek, CA 94595
C
Napa County 2015
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WHAT HOME CARE AGENCIES ARE CHARGING FOR SERVICES IN NAPA Professional HealthCare at Home 190 S. Orchard Ave. Suite A-105 Vacaville, CA 95687 Office: 707-447-4228 Cell: 707-280-3287 Fax: 707-447-5923 www.professionalhc.com Professional Healthcare at Home is a full service home health agency, offering both medical and non-medical home care to Bay Area families for over 20 years. Services range from skilled nursing and rehabilitative therapy to private duty personal care and household assistance, with nonmedical rates starting at $24 an hour. The company is CHAP accredited and Medicare-certified, and all employees are highly trained, screened, bonded, and insured. Clinicians are licensed, and professional case managers coordinate care with physicians and other healthcare providers. Services include nursing care, physical and occupational therapy, extended care, home health aides, medication management, and the full range of personal care assistance, transportation and companionship. ResCare Home Care Solano and Napa 1261 Travis Blvd Suite 180, Fairfield, Ca. 94533 Office: 707 425-5577 Respect + Care Line: (866) ResCare (866) 737.2273 www.rescarehomecare.com Rescare HomeCare is the nations largest privately held home care company. Offer quality in home personalized care in Solano and Napa Counties. Direct care professionals undergo a thorough screening including local, state, federal and DMV background checks. ResCare HomeCare’s caregivers provide Alzheimers/dementia care, homemaking, personal care, companionship, transportation, respite and overnight care as well as other home health care
services. ResCare stands for respect and care. Available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, including holidays. Hourly rates range from $22-$25 per hour. Sleepovers range from$200-$250 for 12 hours. Live-in services range from $300$350. Free in-home assessment. Accept private pay and long term care insurance. Tender Care For Seniors Serving: Napa, Sonoma, Marin & Solano Counties Call : 707-337-2682 or 707-333-3076 Email:
[email protected] Www.tendercareforseniors.com Tender Care Services offers a wide range of services. Fully licensed and bonded. Quality screened caregivers. •Respite Care •Companion Care Services •Light housekeeping/Laundry •Meal preparation/Cooking •Shopping/Errands/Outings •Physician Visits/Note-taking •Transportation •Medication Reminders •Personal Care Services •Bathing/Grooming/Dressing •Bathroom Assistance •Ambulation/Transferring •Hospital Comfort Sitting •Short Term Recovery Rates: 4 Hour Minimum: $22/hour 24 hour: Beginning at $299
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xxx.xxx.xxxx
RESCARE HOME CARE staff provides flexible, dependable, affordable care for your loved one no matter where they call home. Services include a free initial assessment. Hourly rates for 3 or more hours range from $22-$24, Live-in care is $300-$325 per day, Sleepover is $225 per night. Care management services are available, fee based upon need. We are bonded and insured. Our caregivers are available 24/7 including holidays, and can assist with the following activities of daily living: Personal Care (Bathing/Grooming/Toileting) Transfers, Ambulation Support Meal Prep / Eating Assistance Transport to MD Appointments / Errands Light Housekeeping
. Companionship . Special Needs . Safe Discharge Service . Alzheimer’s / Dementia Care . Hospice Care
Call Today xxx.xxx.xxxx xxx.xxx.xxxx
Health & Wellness ~ Personal Care ~ Medical Care ~ Hospice 707-337-2682 707-333-3076 tendercareforseniors.com
[email protected] Serving Napa, Solano, Sonoma, and Marin Counties.
Yolo Counties, and the Sonoma area. Services are all-inclusive–everything from housekeeping to Skilled Nursing. No hourly minimum, no extra charge for nights or weekends, can start services the moment needed. Free RN assessment to develop care plan, a home safety evaluation , and home re-visits to ensure quality of care and caregivers. Care is always managed by an RN. Telephone assistance for family available 24/7. Will assist with insurance billing. Recently added: “Alzheimer’s Whisperers” (a loving and gentle approach). All caregivers are screened, bonded, insured, and have complete background checks. Many caregivers have been with the agency over 5 years. Nurses make weekly “re-visits” to the homes in all communities, to ensure quality of care and caregivers, with all
Assisting People to Reach Their Highest Level of Independence.
Visiting Angels provides personalized non-medical services, and only hires professionally experienced caregivers. Visiting Angels is a fully bonded and insured agency, directed by a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and managed by a Certified Senior Advisor. All caregivers are thoroughly background checked
Tender Care is the family alternative to assisted living facilities and nursing homes. Tender Care provides top quality caregivers in the privacy and comfort of your own home.
Your Home...Nursing Services 3158 Jefferson St. Napa, CA 94558 707-642-4711 (Vallejo/Benicia) 707-428-5733 (Fairfield/Vacaville) 707-224-7780 (Napa) 707-963-4913 (UpValley 530-753-7478 (Yolo County) www.yourhomenursing.com A state licensed, family owned, local, private duty home care agency providing home health services in Solano, Napa,
Visiting Angels 1827 Clay St. Napa, Ca 94559 (707) 528-0222 www.visitingangels.com/santarosa
[email protected]
The best care for your best days!
and drug screened. Agency conducts caregiver supervisory visits and regular client check-ins. Shifts from 2 to 24 hours. 2 Hour Visit $75.00 Flat Fee, 3 Hour Visit $84.00 Flat Fee, Hourly Care (4+ hours) $26.00/Hour, 12 Hour Overnight Sleep Shift $22.00/Hour (Hourly rate applies to awake shifts), 24 Hour Care $16.00 Per Hour.
707 425-5577 xxx.xxx.xxxx Serving Solano and Napa Counties 1261 Travis Blvd. Suite 180, Fairfield, CA 94533
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WHAT HOME CARE AGENCIES ARE CHARGING FOR SERVICES IN NAPA caregivers being CPR/First Aid Certified. Rates start at $22.50 to $26.50 per hour. Live-in services at $350, and sleepovers at $250. Experienced with Alzheimer’s/ Dementia, Cancer, Strokes, Fractures of all types, Parkinson’s, and simply frail family members. Accepts private pay, credit cards, accepted by all insurances and are vendors with the Veteran’s Administration. Caregivers available for Worldwide Travel, care for pets, and support for family members at Special Family Events. HOME CARE REFERRAL AGENCIES These agencies provide non-medical caregivers/companions to help with personal care, transportation, meals, baths, light housekeeping, etc. They provide many of the same services as private home care agencies, however, the caregiver is not an employee
of the agency…the caregiver is an independent contractor. The agency finds and screens the caregiver. The client has the option of interviewing or letting the agency match the appropriate caregiver. The agency assists in negotiating the rate between the client and caregiver, including agency fee. Caregiver earnings are reported to the IRS. Substitute caregivers are available. Caregiver Referral Services (Ask for Caregiver Referral) Area Agency on Aging Serving Napa and Solano 255-4284
By Katharina W. Dress, M.A.
T
A son suddenly moves in to take care of mom, and leaves the daughter out of the decision making. Or a daughter becomes a primary caregiver, and discovers that dad has appointed the son the decision maker for health care and finances, and the son lives out of state and has no contact with the family at all. Sound familiar? Or how about a deathbed promise that can no longer be kept? Sometimes a dad might ask an adult child to “take care of mom” for him, and the child feels compelled to take on the job, not
Cora Home Companion Care 310 Mark Way Napa, CA 255-6260 363-2220 This is a non medical home companion providing personal care in your home. Rates, $17 an hour Minimum, four-hour shift. Live-in care $260, depends on level of care and needs of patient.
In-Home Supportive Services Napa County Comprehensive Services for Older Adults 900 Coombs St., #257 Napa, CA 94558 253-4625 A county-funded service, primarily for people needing assistance to stay at home, yet are unable to afford to privately pay for care. The rate and number of hours that one is eligible for services is determined by a county social worker. In order to qualify for this service, a person must also qualify for Medi-Cal and SSI. This agency also maintains a caregiver registry.
This agency maintains a list of people who work as companions, housekeepers, handymen, gardeners and odd jobbers. You’ll be given
TRY MEDIATION WHEN FAMILY MEMBERS ARGUE OVER CARE ensions between siblings about the care of a parent is a common occurrence. Families might start feuding about whether a parent has dementia, the care they MIGHT need, and how the estate will manage the care plan.
several names to call, and you make the choice of hire. It’s a free service. Hourly rates are negotiable for each person, and usually range between $15-$20 an hour.
realizing the financial and emotional stress that will take its own toll in a lifetime. There might be one sibling who wants to sell everything and place mom/dad in a retirement home, while another insists on care at home, and holding off spending money so that there will be an inheritance for everyone. When siblings squabble, a difficult family transition of caring for aging parents can become intolerable for everyone. And if these conflicts are not resolved, they can lead to an estrangement that can remain entangled long after the death of both parents, and perhaps affect generations to come. However, it doesn’t have to all end up with arguments, threats and cutting off from one another. One way to keep the peace can be to bring in an Adult Family mediator. In
just one or two sessions, it is possible to simplify difficult decisions and ease strong emotions so that common realities can be faced, and solutions that work for everyone can be found.
or Moving to a Senior Residence; Health Care; Financial Planning; Powers of Attorney; Real Estate and Business Decision, and Wills/Trusts.
Mediation is often successful. In about 80 percent of the cases where everyone participates, an agreement is reached. Compliance is voluntary, but if you’re involved in finding a solution, you’ll probably agree to follow it as well. A mediator is a neutral third party who facilitates and clarifies a conversation when emotions run high. The mediator doesn’t offer advice, or search for a decision. Instead, he or she helps the family members talk about challenging issues and make difficult decisions under emotional pressure.
Sometimes all it takes is one meeting, usually lasting three to four hours. Or it could take several sessions to reach an agreement. It all depends on the complexity of the issues and the participants’ commitment to the process. Of course it’s always better to plan before a crisis hits. The final days of anyone’s life can be spent doing and saying what’s truly important to each other, rather than fighting over who gets to do what, and where is mom going to live. Mediation can help families make these important decisions far in advance.
Mediation is voluntary and confidential. People can safely talk and listen carefully to each other’s opinions, feelings and needs, in order to come up with their own solutions and agreements. A mediator can be most helpful when aging parents have disagreements with their children or are no longer able to make decisions about their own care, and their children disagree among each other. Issues addressed can be Care and Transition Planning: Aging in Place,
An Elder Mediator can be found at www. mediate.com, Click “elder.” KATHARINA W. DRESS, M.A., has been a mediator for 8 years and a facilitator and trainer for 30+ years. As founder of AGING IN HARMONY, she helps older adults and their families, caregivers and aging services providers to make difficult decisions and resolve conflicts around Elder Care and Estate Planning issues. Ms. Dress also serves on the Civil Court Mediation Panel of the Superior Court of Alameda County.
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CONTINUING CARE RETIREMENT COMMUNITY These communities offer sevel levels of heath care in one campus. Including: Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care and Skilled Nursing Care. The Meadows of Napa Valley 1800 Atrium Parkway Napa, CA 94558 257-7885 www.retirement.org/Napa Not-for-Profit Community (See ad on page 10)
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ELDER ABUSE ADVOCACY Elder Abuse Hotline: 258-8000 Area Agency on Aging Serving Napa and Solano 400 Contra Costa St. Vallejo, CA 94590 255-4284 www.aaans.org (See ad on page 7) Comprehensive Services for Older Adults 900 Coombs St., #257 Napa, CA 94558 253-4625 or 800-496-9455
Community Action Napa Valley (CANV) Food Bank Emergency Food Pantry Low-income residents of Napa County may receive an allotment of food from one of our 6 locations every thirty days. These allotments are based on household size, but consist of meat, dairy, produce, and dry and canned food items. Food pantries are located in Napa, Calistoga, St. Helena, Lake Berryessa, Angwin, and American Canyon and together serve an average of more than 1,000 households each month. The Senior Brown Bag Program The Senior Brown Bag Program enables seniors over the age of 60 to remain independent as long as possible, by giving them a “Brown Bag” with approximately 10-14 food items twice a month. Food items may include fresh fruit, canned vegetables, oatmeal, bottled beverages, pasta, and canned meat. Seniors pick up Brown Bags from 12 sites throughout Napa County, or volunteer drivers deliver food to those who are infirm or disabled. An average of 275 households are served each month.
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Napa County’s District Attorney Office of Elder Abuse Unit 931 Parkway Mall Napa, CA 94558 299-1414
Non-Profit Agency Access In addition to providing direct food distribution, The Food Bank also contracts with fellow non-profit organizations serving vulnerable low-income people for an inexpensive food supply. Agencies can shop once per week and may access bulk food for free, at .18 cents per pound, or at wholesale cost based on the source of food. This allows fellow non-profit organizations to better offset their food budget, better access to a nutritious food supply, and the ability to serve larger numbers of clients when needed. For More Information: Call 707.253.6128 Website: www.canv.org/foodbank.html
Napa Valley Hospice & Adult Day Services 414 S. Jefferson. St. Napa, CA 94558 258-9080 (See ad on page 48)
Napa Long Term Care Ombudsman 1443 Main St., Suite 125D Napa, CA 94558 255-4236 (See ad on page 32)
Redwood Caregiver Resource Center 1-800-834-1636 Share the Care 492-3198 (See ad on inside back cover)
Paul M. Hoff Zeller, Hoff & Zeller 929 Randolph St. Napa, CA 94559 252-6633 (See ad on page 9) EMERGENCY RESPONSE SYSTEMS Lifeline 778-7883 800-924-2434 Lifelinenorthbay.com (See ad on page 31)
Yvonne Baginski, Caregiver Consultant P.O. Box 6863 Napa, CA 94558 226-7127 (See ad on page 8) FOOD ASSISTANCE (See low income services page 41)
FAMILY CAREGIVER SUPPORT SERVICES All Seniors Safe and Sound Napa, CA 815-2534 (See ad on page 34)
FRIENDLY VISITORS Share the Care Visiting Volunteers throughout the Napa Valley 492-3198 (See ad on inside back cover) GUIDE DOGS FOR THE BLIND Guide Dogs for the Blind, Inc. 350 Los Ranchitos Road San Rafael, CA 94903 1-800-295-4050
USDA Commodity Program The United States Department of Agriculture contracts with the Napa Valley Food Bank to administer 6-8 nonperishable food staples to lowincome Napa County residents once per month from 9 various locations. Items typically include peanut butter, cereal, canned fruits and vegetables, pasta, and canned meat.
Area Agency on Aging Serving Napa and Solano Family Caregiver Support Services 400 Contra Costa St. Vallejo, CA 94590 255-4284 www.aaans.org (See ad on page 7)
Law Office of Naomi Dreskin-Anderson Elder Law Attorney 2180 Jefferson Street, Suite 207 Napa, CA 94559 707-252-8900 (See ad on page 11)
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(707) 778-7883 (800) 924-2434 www.lifelinenorthbay.com
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PAID FOR BY A PRIVATE DONATION
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HEALTH and MEDICAL SUPPLIES Family Drug 1805 Old Sonoma Rd. Napa, CA 94559 224-7807 (See ad on page 34) I Feel Good Medical 1113 Texas St. Fairfield, CA 94553 We carry all medical supplies Ifgmedical.net Piner’s Medical Supply 907 Trancas St. Napa, CA 94558 224-7921 (See ad on Inside Front Cover) Recycled Health & Medical Supplies can be dropped off or picked up at 3205 Montclair Ave. in Napa
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HEARING DOG TRAINING SPCA’S Learning Center 243 Alabama St. San Francisco, CA 415-554-3020 HEARING IMPAIRED ADVOCACY Hearing Loss Association of Napa Valley Meets at Napa Senior Center 3rd Wednesday of each month, 1:00 p.m. Sept.-June 226-9870 HOME-DELIVERED MEALS Meals on Wheels 253-6111 or 1-800-788-0124
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HOME HEALTH CARE SERVICES
The Volunteer Center Home Repair Team 252-6222
Adventist Health HomeCare 27 Woodland Rd. St. Helena, CA 94574 707-967-5770 www.adventisthealth.org (See ad on page 26)
HOSPITALS
Healthy Living at Home 1320 Willow Pass Rd. Suite 715 Concord CA 94520 877-513-7363 www.healthylivingservices.corg Professional HealthCare at Home 190 S. Orchard Ave. Suite A-105 Vacaville, CA 95687 Office: 707-447-4228 Cell: 707-280-3287 Fax: 707-447-5923 www.professionalhc.com (See ad on page 27) St. Joseph Home Care Network 980 Trancas St., #9 Napa, CA 94558 257-4124
HOME MODIFICATIONS
Queen of the Valley Medical Center 1-877-449-DOCS (See ad on page 33) IN-HOME SUPPORTIVE SERVICES Comprehensive Services for Older Adults 900 Coombs St., #257 Napa, CA 94558 259-8359 MASSAGE SERVICES Your Home…Nursing Services 3188 Jefferson St. Napa, CA 94558 224-7780 (See ad on page 24)
more choose
peace of mind The exceptional care you expect without having to leave your community. St. Joseph Health’s network of care provides more access to more doctors delivering the highest quality of specialized care. When you choose your health care, be sure to select a health plan that allows you to access the physicians, services and high quality care at St. Joseph Health, Queen of the Valley.
Find your doctor at StJosephHealth.org or call (877) 449-DOCS (3627)
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Piner’s Medical Supplies 907 Trancas St. Napa, CA 94558 224-7921 (See ad on Inside Front Cover)
MEDICAL ALARMS Lifeline 778-7883 800-924-2434 (See ad on page 31)
MEDICATION MONITORING (See Caregivers for Hire)
MEDICAL EQUIPMENT Free Wheelchairs, commodes, canes, shower chairs and other equipment can be borrowed from Born to Age, 3205 Montclair Ave. in Napa. 707-226-7127. Also available at Williams Transmission and Repair, 224-9466, or 252-6121 in Napa, and Ace Hardware in Calistoga. Want to donate used equipment? Call 226-7127. Born To Age provides equipment to low-income seniors throughout the Bay Area Family Drug 1805 Old Sonoma Rd. Napa, CA 94559 224-7807 (See ad on page 34)
Lifeline Medication Dispensing Service 778-7883 800-924-2434 (See ad on page 31) MEMORY CARE (See Alzheimer’s) MENTAL HEALTH SCREENING Creative Counseling For Seniors and Families, Inc. 707-239-2310 www.creativecounseling.org (See ad on page 9)
Napa Valley Care Center 3275 Villa Lane Napa, CA 94559 257-0931 (See ad on Back Cover)
Family Services of Napa Valley 709 Franklin St. Napa, CA 94559 255-0966 Healthy Minds/Healthy Aging 251-2058 www.healthyminds-aging-napa.org MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES (See Counseling Services on page 11)
The Meadows of Napa Valley Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation Center 1900 Atrium Parkway Napa, CA 94559 310-7486 www.retirement.org/Napa Not-for-Profit Community (See ad on page 10)
MOVE ASSISTANCE Changing Spaces P.O. Box 121 Napa, CA 94559 287-5258 NAIL CARE IN YOUR HOME
NURSING HOME COMPLAINTS / LITIGATION
SassyToes by Elaine Borges 3514 Baxter Ave. Napa, CA 94558 707-257-1229 707-695-0565
California Advocates for Nursing Home Reform 650 Harrison St. San Francisco, Ca 94107 1-800-474-1116 www.cahnr.org Online resource for all information made public about local nursing homes.
NURSING HOMES
amily Drug
Piner’s Nursing Home 1800 Pueblo Ave. Napa, CA 94558 224-7925 (See ad on Inside Front Cover)
Golden Living Center of Napa 705 Trancas Street Napa, CA 94558 707-255-6060 (See ad on page 5)
(707) 224-7807
One Stop Shopping forAll Your Pharmacy & Home Health Care Products. • • • • • • •
Diabetic Supplies • Compression Hosiery • Therapeutic Shoes • Bath Aids • Shower Chairs • Lift Chairs • Walkers & Rollators •
Ostomy Blood Pressure Supplies Lymphedema Products Incontinence Splints & Braces Wound Care Canes & Crutches
Certified Orthotic and Compression Fitters on Staff
Serving the Napa’s Health Care needs since 1952
All Seniors Safe and Sound, LLC, is a free service dedicated to helping seniors and their families find the best senior care options. We specialize in the physical, mental, emotional and social needs of loved ones with dementia-related illnesses, and family counseling for fulfilling relationships during this difficult time.
Lisa Skinner Behavior Specialist and Eldercare Advisor
707.815.2534
AllSeniorsSafeandSound.com
Seniors can take charge of their health by receiving vaccines for preventable diseases at our participating pharmacies. Medicare Part B and D plans accepted. Flu (Influenza) - Seasonal Pneumonia (Pneumococcal) Tdap (Whooping Cough) Hepatitis B (Hep B) Meningitis (Meningococcal)
Shingles (Herpes Zoster) TD (Tetanus Diptheria) Hepatitis A (Hep A) MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)
Please see your Walgreens pharmacist for a free health assessment.
Generic Prescriptions
FIRST ST.
OLD SONOMA RD. G
RU
D ILY
FAM
JEFFERSON
Mon. thru Fri. 9:30am-6:00pm Sat. 9:30am-5:00pm Closed Sunday
ST.
Delivery Available
30-Day Supply $3.99 90-Day Supply $9.99
N
IMOLA AVE.
1805 Old Sonoma Road Napa, California 94559
217 Soscol Avenue 707-224-7897
611 Trancas Street 707-224-8583
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Napa Long Term Care Ombudsman 1443 Main St., #125 Napa, CA 94559 255-4236 The Ombudsman Program maintains files of state surveys (which include deficiencies and citations) on each local facility. (See ad on page 32) OXYGEN EQUIPMENT Piner’s Medical Supply 907 Trancas St. Napa, CA 94558 224-7921 (See ad on Inside Front Cover) PALLIATIVE CARE Transitions Palliative Care 414 South Jefferson St. Napa, CA 94559 254-4161
PHARMACIES Family Drug 1805 Old Sonoma Rd. Napa, CA 94559 224-7807 (See ad on page 34) Raley’s 217 Soscol Avenue Napa CA 94559 707-224-7897 611 Trancas Street Napa CA 94558 707-224-8583 (See ad on page 34) Walgreens 1685 Trancas Street Napa, CA 94558 (707) 257-1154 (See ad on page 34)
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PLACEMENT SERVICES (This service helps seniors find home care, assisted living, or independent housing. Fee paid by facility or homecare agency.) Abba In-Home Care Services 707-704-6489 (See ad on page 26) All Seniors Safe and Sound 815.2534 allseniorssafeandsound.com (See ad on page 34) ApexCare 2220 Boynton Ave., Suite A Fairfield, CA 94533 877-916-9111 www.apexcare.com (See ad on page 27) Love & Joy Senior Services 342-5613 www.loveandjoyseniorcare.com (See ad on page 25)
Senior Visionary Services 888-758-6719 / 925-699-2295 www.seniorvisionaryservices.com
[email protected] (See ad on page 35) Your Home…Nursing Services 3188 Jefferson St. Napa, CA 94558 224-7780 www.yourhomenursingsvs.com (See ad on page 24) RESIDENTIAL CARE FACILITIES FOR THE ELDERLY (See price comparison on page 22 and Board & Care Homes ) RESPITE CARE IN-HOME (See Caregivers for Hire, Page 23)
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RESPITE CARE OUT OF HOME Residential Care Facilities often have rooms available for one and two week stays to provide families with respite or time off for vacations. Fees may apply. Call for more information. Aegis of Napa 2100 Redwood Rd. Napa, CA 94558 (See ad on page 20) Camino Alto Residence Club 105 Power Dr. Vallejo, Ca 94589 643-7617 www.camino-alto.com (See ad on page 22) Napa Valley Hospice and Adult Day Services 414 S. Jefferson St. Napa, CA 94559 258-9080 (See ad on page 48) SHOPPING / ERRAND SERVICES Cora Home Companion Care 410 Mark Way Napa, CA 94558 707-255-6260 707-363-2220 (See ad on page 27) Home Instead Senior Care 3433 Broadway, Suite B-1 American Canyon, CA 94503 252-3322 www.homeinstead.com/521 (See ad on page 28)
Napa Valley Personal Assistant On-call help, when you need it. Insured, bonded and licensed Napa Valley Caregiver Permit Laura Meister 707-287-3362 Your Home…Nursing Services 3188 Jefferson St. Napa, CA 94558 224-7780 www.yourhomenursing.com (See ad on page 24) SUPPORT GROUPS Alzheimer’s Support Groups Napa Valley Hospice and Adult Day Services Early State Memory Loss Participants and Caregivers 4th Tuesday of each month, 5:30-7:30 p.m., potluck 414 S. Jefferson St. Napa, CA 94559 258-9080 1st and 3rd Thursday, 1-3 p.m., (See ad on page 48) Adult Day Health Care 414 S. Jefferson St. Napa, CA 94558 800-834-1636 The group is not limited to those dealing with Alzheimer’s disease although many of the participants are.
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Attitudinal Healing International Peer support for healing attitudes as a result of illness, loss, needed support, financial fears, relationships and other life challenges. Based on the work of Gerald Jampolsky, M.D. Meets Thursdays, 5:30-7:30 p.m., Queen of the Valley Wellness Center 3421 Villa Lane Info: Lynne Law, 815-1108
Look Good…Feel Better 2nd Monday, every other month, 9-11 a.m. Torrey Wall: 255-5911 ext. 3
Better Breathers Meets 2nd Friday of each month, 2-3:30 p.m., 3448 Villa Lane, Suite 102 Jenny Bard, 527-5864 or
[email protected]
Caregivers Support Group Every Wednesday, 5:30-7:00p.m. Napa Valley Adult Services, 414 Jefferson St.
Cancer Support Groups The American Cancer Society 1031 Jefferson St. Napa 94559 Office: 255-5911, option 3 24 hr: 1-800-ACS-2345 (live support) www.cancer.org/csn Free local support, on-line secured chat room and discussion board, and telephone support classes.
FREE conference calls For cancer patients and their loved ones to learn ways to navigate the cancer experience. 1-800-ACS-2345 224-3481
Caregiver Support Group with Respite First Thursday, 1-3 p.m. Napa Valley Adult Services 414 Jefferson St. 258-9087, ext. 231 UpValley Caregiver Support Group First Thursday, 3:00=4:30 p.m. Rianda House 1475 Main St. 258-9087
Bosom Buddies Meets 4th Tuesdays, 4-5:30 p.m. 3448 Villa Lane Contact: Claudia Davis, 257-4047
Food Addicts in Recovery Mondays, 7-8:30 p.m. Queen of the Valley Medical Center Jane 254-7699
Cancer Support Group Wednesdays, 4-5:30 p.m 3448 Villa Lane, Napa For info, Angie Mueller, 251-2012
Fibromyalgia Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Call for times and meetings Napa Valley College Building 800 Room 831 Rebecca Thompson, 224-9039
Need A Ride to a Medical Appointment? Napa County residents over age 62 can become a member of Molly’s Angels for just $12 a year, and then become eligible for rides to medical appointments in Napa and Kaiser Vallejo, when needed. While preference is given to people who call four or five days in advance, sometimes last minute accommodations are possible. Over 300 people take advantage of this free ride service each year, and Molly’s Angels are always on the look out for new volunteer drivers.
Judy Pfizer gets ready to give a ride.
The Angel Team (from left to right) Judy Pfizer, Nicole Pfizer, Fran Rosenberg, and Howie Broxton
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LGBT Senior Support Group Meets the First Tues. of each month Call Ian Stanley for time and location: 251-9432 Napalgbtqproject.org Calistoga Low Vision Support Group 4th Thursday, 1:30-3:00 p.m., Rancho de Calistoga, 2412 Foothill Blvd., Napa Creek Manor Low Vision Support Tfoup 1st Wednesday, 10:30 a.m.-11:30 a.m. Napa Creek Manor, 1300 Jefferson St. Rohlff’s Manor Support Group 2nd Thursday, 1:30-3:00 p.m. Rohlff’s Manor Library, 2400 Fair Dr. The Meadows of Napa Support Group 4th Thursday, 10:30 a.m.-11;30 a.m. The Meadows of Napa, 1800 Atrium Parkway, Lupus Support Group 1st Wednesday of each month, 5:30-7 p.m. Queen of the Valley Wellness Center, 2nd floor classroom 707-257-6035
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Lyme Disease Support Group First Tues., 6:30 p.m. potluck Best Western Inn Conference Room Imola and Soscol Lupe Herrera: 257-8531
[email protected] Mood Disorders Support Group Mondays, 7-9 p.m. Clinic Ole 1411 Pear Tree Lane, Napa Ostomy Support Group 2nd Tuesday every other month, 3:00 p.m. December, February, April, June Queen of the Valley Hospital Kathy Winston, 252-4411, ext. 2810 Stop Smoking Support Group Free ongoing classes and a support group can help you quit. Every Monday, 6:45-7 p.m. Clinic Ole, 1141 Pear Tree Lane, 2nd floor. Info:
[email protected] or 253-6100, ext. 132.
Stroke Survivors Group Second Tuesday of each month, 3 p.m. Queen of the Valley Medical Center Community Outreach 3448 Villa Lane, Suite 102 Napa, CA Kate Candland: 252-4411 ext 2819
[email protected] Weight Watchers Mondays 5:45 p.m., Wednesdays 12:30 p.m. Fridays 9 a.m., Saturdays 8 a.m. and 9:30 a.m. Foothill Christian Fellowship 2898 Laurel St., Napa For information, call 800-651-6000 TRANSPORTATION & ESCORT SERVICES American Cancer Society 1031 Jefferson St. Napa, CA 94559 255-5911, press 3 1-800-ACS-2345, press 3 www.cancer.org Volunteer drivers assist cancer patients with transportation to and from
treatment facilities. Limited out of county transportation. Travel reimbursement assistance for people in need. Assistance with out of county lodging during cancer treatment. Hearts That Matter 68 Coombs St., A-9 Napa, CA 94558 252-7569 Van rides with wheelchair access. Reasonable rates. (See ad on page 3) Molly’s Angels Free rides to medical appointments 224-8971 (See ad on page 36) Taxi Scrip 625 Burnell St. Napa, CA 94558 251-2800 Eligible persons must live in Napa, Yountville or within portions of the County (call for verification), and be 65 or older or disabled of any age. Registration is required, call for a
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WANT TO GET OUT MORE? Take
Your Local Bus System!
VINE has super low fares for seniors! Our buses are fast, safe, and clean. The VINE can take you up and down Napa Valley and beyond. VINE buses transport scooters and wheelchairs!
For more information and schedules: call 707-251-2800 or go to www.ridethevine.com HOW DO I RIDE? We have specially trained volunteers who work one-on-one with you and show you how to ride the bus confidently. This service is FREE. Go to www.ridethevine.com or call (707) 253-4649. VINE - Voted Best Ride by Napa Seniors!
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packet. May purchase up to 3 booklets of tickets monthly. Booklet valued at $20 at a cost of $10 each. Booklets may be purchased by U.S. Mail or at the VINE Transit Center (1151 Pearl St. in Napa) or at Napa Senior Center (1500 Jefferson St.) VINE—The Bus System 625 Burnell St. Napa, CA 94558 707-251-2800 www.ridethevine.com (See ad on page 37) The new VINE bus system features more frequent service and more neighborhood routes designed to meet the needs of the average rider. The VINE has 8 local routes (in the City of Napa), 2 regional routes, and 3 inter-county service routes. The cost per ride for older adults is 75 cents*. An unlimited use, 31-day pass is just $24*. The VINE’s Route 10 and 11 provide county-wide bus service up and down Hwy 29 in Napa Valley. Also, the regional Route 25 goes to downtown Sonoma. The route 21 connects Napa to Fairfield and the Suisun train depot. Regional Route 29 Express connects the valley to the Vallejo Ferry and El Cerrito Del Norte BART station in the east bay. *Does not apply to Routes 21 and 29. TRANSIT AMBASSADORS 625 Burnell St. Napa, CA 94558 707-253-4649 http://www.ridethevine.com/transitambassador If you have not been on a bus in some time, the VINE’s Transit Ambassador Program provides a travel buddy to teach you how to ride the VINE bus sytem. The Ambassador will ride around town with you until you feel comfortable travelling by yourself. The service is free of charge and you receive a free 31-day bus pass. The Transit Ambassadors Program is county-wide.
VINE Go—Door to Door Services 625 Burnell St. Napa, CA 94558 707-253-4649 for Application request 707-252-2600 to Call for VINE GO services in the city of Napa 707-963-4222 to Call for VINE GO services Up Valley 707-556-8221 to Call for VINE GO services in American Canyon www.ridethevine.com/vine-go If you are physically limited and cannot ride the regular bus, we provide VINE Go. VINE Go is a shared ride bus service that provides door-to-door transportation to anywhere within ¾ of a mile of the VINE service area. VINE GO operates during the same days and hours of operation as the regular VINE bus service. VINE Go will not provide service to people whose transportation needs can be met by other local public transit services. VINE Go is available countywide. The fare is $3.00 - $6.00 per ride (depending on distance travelled). Go to website above to download an application; if you do not have access to a computer, call at number above for an application request and VINE GO will mail you an application. LIFELINE TAXI PROGRAM 625 Burnell St. Napa, CA 94558 707-253-4649 www.ridethevine.com/taxi-scrip For evening trips or on a day when you may not feel well enough to take the bus, our Taxi Scrip program provides a lifeline service within the City limits of Napa. Under the program, Napa residents 65 and older or persons with disability of any age may take a cab ride anywhere in the City of Napa and pay up to half the cost of the cab ride. The average out of pocket cost for riders is $4 per ride. You must be a resident in the City of Napa. You can purchase up to three booklets of tickets monthly. Some program restrictions apply.
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MILEAGE REIMBURSEMENT PROGRAM 625 Burnell St. Napa, CA 94558 707-253-4649 www.ridethevine.com/mrp The Mileage Reimbursement Program was created to encourage volunteer based transportation for older adults and persons with disabilities who cannot drive and do not have access to public transit. You find a volunteer driver to transport you to medical or grocery trips and we will reimburse the mileage. Your volunteer driver can be a friend, a family member, neighbor, etc. You must be a County of Napa resident, unable to drive, reside outside the bus service area or travelling to/from a medical appointment or grocery trip that cannot be reached by other forms of public transportation. Call or go online at website above for an application.
Hours of Operation: M - Th: 7 AM - 9 PM Friday: 7 AM - 11 PM Saturday: 8:15 AM - 11 PM Sunday*: 11 AM - 9 PM *May-November only
AMERICAN CANYON TRANSIT 707-557-7557 www.ridethevine.com/american-canyontransit
YOUNTVILLE TROLLEY 707-312-1509 http://www.ridethevine.com/yountvilletrolley
American Canyon Transit (ACT) provides a fixed route bus service aimed at getting local residents to shopping and healthcare facilities within American Canyon. If you cannot walk to the bus stop, ACT will pick you up from home. ACT connects to the Napa VINE bus routes 11 and 29 allowing passengers to travel to Napa, Vallejo, the Vallejo Ferry and even BART in the East Bay. The cost of fixed route services is $1 per adult ride and 0.50 cents for older adults. The fare for door-to-door services is $1 for seniors.
The Yountville Trolley is an on-demand, door-to-door transit service in the Town of Yountville. The Yountville Trolley is wheelchair accessible. The Yountville Trolley is free of charge. Call at number above for pick-ups. Hours of operation:
CALISTOGA SHUTTLE 707-963-4229 http://www.ridethevine.com/calistogashuttle Calistoga Shuttle is an on-demand, doorto-door, transit service within city limits. No advanced reservations are required. Buses are wheelchair accessible. The cost is $1 per ride. Call the number above to schedule a pick up.
ST. HELENA SHUTTLE 707-963-3007 http://www.ridethevine.com/st-helenashuttle The St. Helena Shuttle is an on-demand, door-to-door, transit service within city limits. The St. Helena Shuttle is wheelchair accessible. The cost is 0.50 cents for older adults. Call at number above for pick-ups. Hours of Operation: M-Th: 7:45 am to 6 pm Friday: 7:45 to 11 PM Saturday: 10 AM to 11 PM Sunday: 12 noon to 7 PM
M– Sat: 10 AM – 11 PM Sunday: 10 AM – 7 PM VETERANS SERVICES Napa Veterans Services 900 Coombs St., Suite 257 253-4558 VISUALLY IMPAIRED SERVICES Books for the Blind and Physically Handicapped 900 N St. Sacramento, CA 95814 1-800-952-5666
Please Donate Medical Supplies and Equipment Born to Age accepts all types of unused or unwanted medical supplies and equipment. We take everything, including wheelchairs, walkers, grab bars, transfer poles, shower chairs, commodes and incontinent supplies. All donations are given away to those in need. Donations may be left on the porch at 3205 Montclair Avenue in Napa. WE DO NOT PICK UP OR DROP OFF MEDICAL SUPPLIES AND EQUIPMENT.
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Earle Baum Center for the Blind 523-3222 Guide Dogs for the Blind, Inc. 350 Los Ranchitos Road San Rafael, CA 94903 800-295-4050 Support Group for the Visually Impaired Via Telephone every Tuesday from 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. 1-800-592-9052 WELLNESS CHECKS Wellness on Wheels Nursing students assess people receiving Meals on Wheels once a month. Collaborate with primary doctor and follow up as needed. 253-6100
WHEELCHAIR TRANSPORTATION Napa Valley Senior Care, Inc. 510-333-8509 (See ad on page 21) WOUND CARE Family Drug 1805 Old Sonoma Rd. Napa, CA 94559 224-7807 (See ad on page 34) Your Home…Nursing Services 3188 Jefferson St. Napa, CA 94558 224-7780 www.yourhomenursing.com (See ad on page 24)
ost veterans and surviving spouses who are in need of assisted living or in-home care, can qualify for the "Aid and Attendance" Benefit offered by the Veteran's Administration. The benefit can pay up to $2,019 per month to a married veteran, and a single or widowed veteran can receive up to $1,703 per month. Unmarried surviving spouses can received up to $1,094 a month. All of these benefits are tax free. Under this program, money is awarded based on need and there are certain income and asset requirements. The veteran or spouse applying must show that while assistance may not be needed with everything, there is help needed with bathing, dressing/ undressing, medications, transferring or other care on a daily basis. This is the
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The 9 Principles of Finding True Health at Any Age
1
Listen to your body. Do experiments to see how you feel by changing one habit. Change what you eat for breakfast, or exercise differently, or cut out certain foods.
2
Think outside the box. Don’t let what you’re told define how you think about your health.
3 Take care of your physical
health.
Veterans Benefits to Pay for Long Term Care M
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worth should be reported and VA will determine if a claimant’s assets are of a sufficient amount that the claimant could live off these assets for a reasonable period of time. The veteran must have served one day during a period of war and had at least 90 days of active duty.
Eligibility must be proven by filing the proper Veteran's Application for Pension or Compensation (Form 21-534 for surviving spouse) (Form 21-526 veteran). This application will require a copy of the the DD214 (discharge papers), a medical type of care provided in assisted living, evaluation from the physician, or by an in-home care companion. current medical isues, net worth Assets cannot be excessive, as limitations, net income and out-ofdetermined by the VA on a case by case pocket medical expenses. basis.
What about Net Worth? Net worth means the net value of the assets of the surviving spouse and his or her children. It includes such assets as bank accounts, stocks, bonds, mutual funds, some annuities and trust funds and any property other than the surviving spouse’s residence and a reasonable lot area. There is no set limit on how much net worth a surviving spouse and his or her children can have, but net worth cannot be excessive. The decision as to whether a claimant’s net worth is excessive depends on the facts of each individual case. All net
Approval takes about six months, but the VA is supposed to give priority to any application for benefits by a veteran over age 70. If the benefit is approved, the money awarded is retroactive to date of application. For more information, contact the Napa County Veteran’s Administration, 900 Coombs St., Suite 257. 253-4558. Website information is available at: www.veteransaid.org.
4 Take care of your lifestyle, exercise, diet, supplements, attitude.
5
Become aware of how your emotions are connected to your physical health.
6
Never give up. Be patient and persistent in your quest for answers that work for you.
7
Conquer fears of illness by learning that your body is your friend--trust that things are happening for a greater good.
8 Believe in miracles. 9 Fall in love with your life.
10 Websites for Help with Veterans Benefits American Legion www.legion.org Defense Finance & Accounting Center www.dfas.mil Disabled American Veterans www.dav.org National Veterans Legal Services www.nvlsp.org Non-Commissioned Officers Association www.ncoausa.org California State Veterans Office www.calvet.ca.gov Veterans Affairs Regional Offices http://benefits.va.gov/benefits/offices.asp Veterans Aid www.veteransaid.org Veterans of Foreign Wars www.vfw.org Vietnam Veterans of America www.vva.org Also look for veterans benefits representatives on college campuses.
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family members or friends providing care. This service is for people with very low income...usually receiving SSI, and must be on Medi-Cal, as well as Medicare. It is a county run program. Information for IHSS qualification is at 707-784-8259.
hat are the options open to me, and how will the government pay for it? The government does not usually pay for custodial care at home. Custodial care, means that if a person needs help with bathing, housekeeping, food preparation and/or medication monitoring mostly, they will have to pay for it out of pocket. Medicare only pays for skilled medical care, that is usually provided by therapists, nurses and social workers, intermittently.
B. Long Term Care Medi-Cal. The basic requirements to qualify for Medi-Cal are that you are in a nursing home, at least 65 year old, (or blind or disabled), and medical/nursing bills exceed your income, and your countable assets do not exceed $2,000. You must also be a U.S. citizen, or lawful permanent resident of California. A partial list of exempt (noncountable) assets include: a home, houseboat, mobile home and multi-unit dwelling if you live in one of the units some time before entering a nursing home; household goods and personal effects– wedding, engagement rings and heirloom jewelry, one car, burial plots, prepaid burial plan, and some annuity or pension plans if payments of principal and interest are being made.
Ways to Finance Long Term Care
Medicare does not pay for assisted living, board and care nor custodial home care. There are also eligibility requirements for paying nursing home care, incluidng a limit of coverage based on utilizataion of days, and skilled care. So, for the first 30-90 days of nursing home a person may be covered under Medicare, but this often changes to no coverage once the person is stabilized and in custodial, long term care. Home Care costs about $23-25 an hour (see page 28-32) for costs and minimums, and most agencies require a 4-hour daily minimum. A board and care can run between $2,500 to $4,000 for semi-private and/or private room, and assisted living can run between $3,500-$5,500 a month. So, if a loved one needs home care, or placement into a board and care home, or assisted living facility, here are the options available. 1. Private pay. Many people pay for services out of savings and retirement accounts. Assets are spent on services, based on ability to pay. If a home is owned, a reverse mortgage might be an additional source of funds for this type of care. A reverse mortgage is available for seniors only. Another option is a home equity line of credit, or selling the home to a trusted friend/family member and leasing it back.
2. The Veteran's Aid and Attendance Benefit. This can supplement private pay, but one must prove eligibility for services. (see page 37 for details). This benefit is retroactive from time of application, and can take up to one year to determine eligibility and payment. This benefit can help pay for home care, or assisted living care. It does not pay for rent or lodging expenses, but is restricted to medical and care services. 3. Long Term Care Insurance. Read the policy very carefully. Some only cover nursing home or assisted living care. Or, provide a daily limit that covers only a portion of the care. some policies sold in the 1990s are basically useless today, unless a person wants to go straight to live in a nursing home. If you have a policy purchased before 2010, review it carefully to make sure it is actually going to provide funding for the services you might prefer. Policy review is available without charge from advocates from the Health Insurance Counseling and Advocacy Program (HICAP). Call 1-800-434-0222 to make an appointment for a review of your policy. 4. Medi-Cal: There are two type of Medi-Cal available to Californians: A. Medi-Cal for low income seniors/ and people with disabilities. If on Medicare/Medi-Cal and additional assistance is needed with activities of daily living at home, one might be eligible for In-Home Supportive Assistance (IHSS). This program pays for an alloted number of hours of care at home, dependent on an assessment by a social worker. Payment for services can also be made to eligible
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It is a good idea to speak with a Medi-Cal planning expert to determine planning and eligibility for Medi-Cal. Medi-Cal does not pay for room and board at any assisted living or board and care home. It also does not pay for private home care. And, finally, the big question: What Happens When We Run Out of Money? Sometimes families pitch in funding on a month-to-month basis to supplement care. For example, the monthly SSI stipend may not provide enough money for a board and care home, so the children or other friends add money, as needed. Or, when the well runs dry, Medi-Cal eligibility and nursing home placement for long term care becomes one reality that may need to be faced. There are very few options available for low income seniors. Patching together services, family support and spending down assets seems to be the path followed most often. Questions about any of the above, including referrals to other resources, are available at Born To Age, 707-226-7127.
If You’ve Ever Worked in the U.S. Atomic Industry Compensation and medical benefits to current or former civilian employees who’ve worked at certain government or privately owned medical facilities where atomic weapons were produced or tested, are now available from the Energy Employees Occupational Illness Compensation Program in Livermore. Lump sum benefits of up to $150,000, to qualified claimants, are available if claimants worked in a covered facility and developed radiogenic cancer, beryllium disease or silicosis. Qualified survivors of these deceased workers may also be eligible for compensation. While the amount of compensation may vary, most employees found to have a work related illnedss will receive a federal payment and medical benefits for the treatment of the covered condition. If you have worked, or know of someone who’s worked at a designated Department of Energy facility, Please call, 866-606-6302 or 925-606-6302, for more information.
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SERVICES FOR LOW INCOME SENIORS Care Management Care Network, Queen of the Valley Hospital 3448 Villa Lane, Suite 102 Napa, CA 94558 251-2000 The CARE Network provides home visits by nurses and social workers and offers comprehensive support for lowincome people with illnesses such as cancer, HIV/AIDs and congestive heart failure Napa Valley Hospice and Adult Day Services 414 S. Jefferson Napa, CA 94559 258-9080 Medical, emotional and spiritual support services offered to terminally ill people and their families in home, residential care or nursing home settings. Direct billing to Medicare, Medi-Cal or private insurance. Benefits cove equipment. Must be referred by physician and have a six month or less prognosis. Comprehensive Services for Older Adults 900 Coombs St., Napa, CA 94558 253-4625 Psychiatric Case Management for people over age 62 suffering from mental illness and/or Alzheimer’s Disease. Share the Care 492-3198 Case management and volunteer support for people of all ages who are chronically ill, frail, or need support to live safely at home. Share the Care helps you find whatever you might need. CareGivers Chore Services (In Home Supportive Services) 900 Coombs St., #257 Napa, CA 94559 259-8359 For people who are low income, aged, blind or disabled. Must be on Medi-
Cal. Provide funds to hire caregivers to do household tasks, shopping and minor care support. An intake social worker comes out to your home and makes an assessment on what you can do for yourself, and what you need for someone else to do in order for you to remain safely at home. Hours of care need and paid for by IHHS is authorized by a social worker.
Brown Bag 253-6128
Caregiver Referral Registery Area Agency on Aging Napa Solano 255-4284
The Volunteer Center maintains a database of handymen and contractors who are supervised to provide home repairs. These repairs are at market or reduced rates, depending on circumstances. Please call Jim Tomlinson at 252-6222.
The Area Agency on Aging maintains a registry (list of names and phone numbers) of caregivers available for private hire on an hourly or live-in basis. Arrangements for hire are made between the caregiver and person hiring. Caregivers on registry list are not employees of the Area Agency on Aging. MSSP Area Agency on Aging Napa Solano 255-4284 This program provides funds for respite care for the caregiver. Up to two days a week, up to 90 days, this program will pay for a caregiver contracted through a local agency to come into the home for respite. They also pay for wheelchair ramps, grab bars and other home modifications. COUNSELING SERVICES Healthy Minds / Healthy Aging Offers free support for older adults, including someone to listen, help with emotional and cognitive concerns, connect to srsources, counseling in-home. Free services in Spanish or English. 707-251-2058. Food Meals on Wheels 254-6111 or 1-800-788-0124 Home delivered meals available to homebound or convalescing seniors and their caregivers. Also available to disabled adults under age 60. Donation. Meals are delivered M-F
Monthly food distribution to low income seniors.
Don’t Flush Your Medicine Down the Drain!
HOME REPAIR The Volunteer Center 252-6222
Housing See pages 10 and 22 for rate information on low income apartments, retirement communities and assisted living. FREE MEDICAL EQUIPMENT NAPA: Born to Age 3205 Montclair Ave. 226-7127 Williams Automotive 238 Soscol Ave. 224-9466 252-6121
Don’t flush medications down the toilet, or even throw them in the trash. Hold unto your medications until there’s a medication drive in your city. Any medications thrown or flushed away, eventually make it into our water system and are harmful to wildlife and environment. Because of drought and public use, we are seeing water levels drop and the concentrations of pharmaceuticals on the rise. While medications are impacting frogs, fish and all kinds of wildlife, eventually, they make it back into the water we drink. The most sophisticated water treatment facility isn’t capable of removing all traces of drugs from the water. In Napa County, the follolwing locations accept medication: Clinic Ole - Napa 1141 Pear Tree Lane Napa, CA 94558 257-1770
CALISTOGA:
St. Helena 811 Main St. St. Helena CA 963-0931
Ace Hardware 1450 Lincoln Ave. 942-4396
Calistoga: 911 Washington St. 709-2300
TELEPHONES California Telephone Access 1-800-806-1191 FREE telephones for people of low vision, hard of hearing, mobility, speech and cognitively impaired. Must have physician signature on form. Transportation (See transportation listings page 39)
What’s in YOUR Tap Water? There’s a good chance that if you live in an urban area, your tap water is laced with tiny amounts of antidepressants (mostly SSRIs like Prozac and Effexor), benzodiazepines (like Klonopin, used to reduce symptoms of substance withdrawal) and anticonvulsants (like Topomax, used to treat addiction to alcohol, nicotine, food, cocaine and crystal meth). ~Source: TheFix.com
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H
oarding is not a joke, or something to be poked fun at by a nationally televised television show, according to Patrick Arbore, Ed.D., who spoke recently at a Walnut Creek meeting of senior care professionals. It is a psychiatric diagnosis whose treatment is now covered by many medical insurances, including Medicare.
It is complicated to work with hoarders, packrats or clutterers, because they justify and rationalize their behavior. Hoarders are usually lonely and isolated people. Their hoarding keeps others away.
People who hoard believe that their life depends on it. Their possessions are their security and they resist insight into their behavior.
Hoarders, too, are generally mentally competent, and some can appear healthy and well-dressed. They may look normal, but are totally oblivious to their environment.
“We see a lot of hoarding in aging, but that’s only because they’ve had 80+ years to save all that stuff,” said Arbore, a hoarding expert from the San Francisco-based Institute on Aging, “but hoarding actually starts In childhood.” He believes that most people who hoard had either abusive childhoods, or suffered a deep trauma. “Hoarding starts at age 8, not 80,” he said. “Being raised abnormally, people become very external. They have no support or process for investigating the trauma and we see this turning into addictive behavior, as well. They don’t want to explore what their childhood was all about, and becomes very difficult because they don’t want to experience any strong feelings.” The hoarding becomes the hiding of self. It’s a deep psychological coping
“Nothing bothers healthy people more than people who hoard and clutter. We have a real repulsion to them.”
HOARDING: THE PROBLEM WITH TOO MUCH STUFF that can hold be dealt with slowly, and usually with a counselor. “These are people who are not okay. They’ve been abused or betrayed and don’t trust other people. They project human characteristics to their stuff,” he said. Sometimes adult children or friends try to help with a surprise cleanup. “A parent goes on vacation, and the kids come in and clean everything. Mom comes home and collapses from the anxiety,” said Arbore. “What does this serve? Eventually, they’ll fill it all up again.”
Lost in Clutter? • • • •
Do you struggle with the desire to collect items and bring them home? Do items you collect interfere with daily life, relationships, or functioning in your home? Are you uncomfortable with ideas of removing anything from your home? Are you in financial or housing trouble because of the items you’ve purchased or collected in your home?
If you’ve answered “yes” to any if these questions, you might be struggling with hoarding. To learn more, and begin to change, you are invited to a weekly support group held every Thursday, 3:30-5:00 p.m. At Concordia Manor, 2435 Sutherland Dr. In Napa. Group takes place in the office across from the dining room. This is a group for adults, free to the public and no registration is required. For Info: Kari Pramuk at 253-4046.
And most hoarders are oblivious to it, they just don’t see it, and they can’t discern what it valuable, nor can they discard what isn’t. They place human characteristics on their stuff, and actually prefer their stuff to people. The stuff makes them feel secure. At some level, however, hoarders are aware. And, that is usually at the level of shame. People who hoard often keep people away, don’t allow visitors, or may limit where a person can go in a house. Room checks in retirement homes can cause much agitation as fire codes have to be adhered to, and a hoarder will have to empty out a place quickly in order to pass muster. “I’ve seen one woman carry out over five boxes to her car the night before a room check. I asked her what was in the boxes, and she didn’t even know,” he said. The difference between a packrat or a messy person are that the hoarders “have to have.” When they pass a waste bin, for example, they’ll check it to see what’s in there. They might rescue a three-legged table or chair, and believe that once they fix it, they can give it a “happy home.” “Once they think of what they’re going to do with something, it’s done. They don’t have to think of it again. In their mind, it’s done,’ he said.
The entire issue of hoarding can be very complicated, but the real defining moment for hoarding is whether “you can get rid of it.” Hoarders usually can’t.
TIPS FOR DEALING WITH HOARDERS: • Establish a positive relationship • Maintain Respect • See their point of view • Name the problem, and define the standards • Help them maintain a sense of control over the setting • Help in setting goals • Establish time frames for getting this started • Offer physical/emotional support • Be persistent • Let the person tell their story • Respect the meaning and attachment to each possession • Be calm, factual, caring and supportive • Praise effort and sincerity
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Medical Cannabis By Yvonne Baginski, Publisher of Born To Age
S
ome doctors in Sonoma County are recommending medical cannabis as an option for calming agitation and other behaviors for people with dementia. A piece of brownie or chocolate with a little cannabis in it, instead of Haldol, or Seroquel, can help significantly while maintaining a better quality of life according to John Woring, administrator of Primrose, a 50-bed all dementia assisted living facility in Santa Rosa. “We had multiple physicians prescribe it, with tremendous positive results,” says Woring. “With the people who are using it, we’ve seen a reduction in agitation, yelling and outburst, with increases in appetite, better moods and more happiness.” Unlike the psychoactive medications traditionally used, Woring’s also seen fewer falls and improved ambulations with cannabis, as well as no drooling or shuffling. “We are faced with residents where traditional pharmacology is ineffective. Giving them drugs like Xanax or Ativan is only a short term, quick fix. With these drugs (antipsychotics) , we’ve seen some terrible side effects such as tongue thrusting, lack of appetite, and an increased fall risk. In order to control behaviors, we see a decline in their independence, more rapid decline in their health, and incontinence…the cost is too high.” Over the past five years, about 11 people have switched from the traditional medications to cannabis, and Woring feels good about how their improved quality of life. At first, he admits, he was “curious about how it would work.”
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It was actually families of residents who brought cannabis to his attention. When other medications were proving to be ineffective, family members would tell him that cannabis worked in the past. “One family had a consenting psychiatrist, and they asked me whether we could try this,” he says. “Cannabis had been effective prior to living here.” But, he admits, it made him nervous. There is a disparity between California and federal law, and so they checked with the California Department of Social Services. He discovered that outlined policies had to exist, and it would be
treated as any other medication. Primrose doesn’t allow smoking on premises. And, under state regulations, treat cannabis like any other medication they dispense to patients. It is measured on a scale, centrally stored and kept under lock and key. It is then given to the resident as a brownie, chocolate, or cookie. A local dispensary delivers, according to the prescription. One doctor has even developed chocolate pieces with the cannabinoid content is measured and standardized, so the dosage can be controlled.
The program is successful that Primrose has accepted six difficult to manage people who’d been evicted from other places, “but we can take care of them.” “One of our goals is a consistent regime to reduce the use of psychoactive medications in our facility, I think we’re ahead of the curve,” he says. However, not all the residents have doctors who agree, or will prescribe cannabis. Woring agrees that it might not be effective for everyone. And, with Marinol, which is a synthetic derivative in pill form, he’s not seen similar results as with cannabis. “My understanding from the doctors is that it doesn’t have the same cannabinoid properties.” Marinol is FDA approved to control nausea and increase appetite. Currently about five people at Primrose are using cannabis in an edible form. “From my experience, in transitioning from pharmacological medications to cannabis, these people have done better, and have a better quality of life,” he says. “I think that’s really what it’s all about.”
Most Often Asked Questions About Medical Cannabis How do I ask my doctor about it? Many physicians will not recommend Medical Cannabis because it is not recognized by the federal government as a legal drug. Nor is it approved by the FDA. However, it is a legal drug for medical use in the State of California. If your doctor says he will not recommend it, and you believe it will be of benefit, you can always go to another doctor. There are physician clinics set up throughout the North Bay that specifically write letters of recommendation. Do I need a letter of recommendation? Yes. The letter of recommendation will gain you admittance into a Medical Cannabis dispensary where you will be able to purchase the medicine. How do I know how much cannabis will be effective? Dosage levels are up to each person and what they can tolerate. The recommendation is to start with the smallest dose, and see how it works. Every body is different. Some products have dosing levels listed on the labels. If you don’t want to smoke it, there are other forms available: teas, salves, tinctures, edibles. Where do I find a Medical Cannabis dispensary? The nearest dispenseries are located in Santa Rosa and Vallejo. Call Born to Age: 226-7127 for more information. Can my caregiver pick up my medicine? Yes. Caregivers also need letters of certification from both the recommending physician, and the patient. They can pick up medications from the dispensary with both letters, and identification.
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When Babies Cry
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hen babies cry, parents try to discover what’s wrong. Are they hungry? Wet? In pain? Sometimes, that baby just needs to be held. When elderly people with dementia cry, we say, “let’s give them a drug for their depression,” says Tony Chicotel an attorney for the California Association of Nursing Home Reform (CANHR), who spoke recently in Napa to a group of people who are interested in reducing the use of psychoactive medications with elderly people who are confused, forgetful, angry or depressed. Or, might be diagnosed with any type of dementia. “Instead of a drug, why can’t we give them a hug?” asks Chicotel. Admitting that it might not always be so simple, but the misuse of psychoactive medications is widespread in nursing homes, board and care homes, and assisted living facilities. Drugs are often seen as the only solution to controlling behaviors that many don’t understand. Chicotel pointed that people with dementia often afraid, confused, uncomfortable and their anxiety builds up. Their behavior (crying, yelling, wandering, hitting), isn’t a symptom, it’s a conversation, he says. “They are trying to say something, but the caregiver doesn’t know what else to do, so call the doctor,” he said, “and that seals their fate. Doctor’s don’t speak the language of dementia… they see the symptoms, and adjust the medications.” Some antipsychotic drugs nearly double the risk of death for older persons. These drugs are not approved by the FDA for the treatment of dementia. And, some of them have
Understanding Dementia Behavior
side effects that, with the elderly, would prefer to be avoided such as dizziness, lethargy, falls, agitation, confusion and hallucinations. These drugs may include: Risperadal, Seroquel, Ativan, Zyprexa, Haldol and Depakote. Antianxiety drugs, such as Ativan and Valium are often used to sedate or restrain people, and they can also cause serious side effects, according to a report recently published by CAHNR. Chicotel points out that many people are given these drugs because, according to nursing notes, they “resist care,” “wander,” are a “fall risk,” or are “agitated.” “Imagine if you were in a hotel room, and all of a sudden two people come in and try to take you to the bathroom… or, wash you. Who wouldn’t ‘resist care?’” he asks. “These are people who’ve had amazing losses, are afraid, don’t understand what’s going on and can’t communicate what they need anymore. It totally makes sense for them to be behaviorly challenged.” Ageism, too, plays a cultural role in how elderly people with dementia are treated. “We as a culture see a crying baby, and don’t think they have a disease and we need to give them a drug,” he says. Using these drugs as chemical restraints can destroy a person’s quality of life. “I used to think that people sitting in recliners, drooling and sleeping…well, that was because of their dementia,” says Chicotel. It’s not, it’s because of the drugs.”
Napa County 2015
Caregivers, he stressed, need more training. There are plenty of Behavioral Workshops and Classes, and have more and better-trained staff might make a significant difference in the care of people with dementia.
P
eople with dementia might not be able to express pain. They also might not be able to say how they feel, understand their environment, or know what’s going on. So, they strike out, hitting someone else. Or, have screaming outbursts. Sometimes they just keep trying to leave, and become combative when stopped. These are all behaviors affecting other people, and in desperation to stop the behaviors, the caregivers phone the doctors for help.
“I think that many people who are in the caregiving profession are loving, caring people. That’s why they went into this line of work,” he said. “Care needs to become person-centered…each person is unique.”
“Unless it’s a health or safety issue, I think caregivers should be trained not to call the doctor first,” said Tony Chicotel, an attorney for the California Association for Nursing Home Reform (CAHNR). “Instead, try to work with that person and/or family to discover why they’re behaving that what needs to be done.”
In Napa County, Celine Regalia of Napa Valley Adult Day Services is an Impaired Cognitive Behavioral expert. She is available to consult with facilities on what is needed to improve care for people with dementia. She can be reached at6 258-9080.
He recommends that facilities invest in staff trainings, and take a second look at how the environment is designed around the needs of the person with dementia.
BY THE NUMBERS
Rates of Psychoactive Medication Use in Napa County Nursing Homes
2010
2013
Golden Living
29.14%
26.13%
Nelson M. Holderman
15.01%
16.61%
Napa Valley Care Center
23.91%
21.90%
Piners Nursing Home
23.33%
13.89%
The Meadows
13.40%
20.75%
Source: California Association of Nursing Home Reform. (CAHNR)
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State of California—Health and Human Services Agency
QUESTIONS TO ASK WHEN PSYCHOACTIVE DRUGS ARE PROPOSED
California Department of Public Health RON CHAPMAN, MD, MPH Director & State Health Officer
EDMUND G. BROWN JR. Governor
Marilyn Tavenner Administrator
August 1, 2014
AFL 14-18
TO: Skilled Nursing Facilities and Nursing Facilities SUBJECT:
Quality of Life 45
Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services / California Department of Public Health Joint Letter Related to Antipsychotic Drug Use
The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) and the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) are committed to ending inappropriate use of antipsychotic drugs in skilled nursing facilities (SNFs). This letter identifies actions that CMS and CDPH are taking to enforce laws and regulations governing use of antipsychotics in SNFs. In May 2011, the Office of Inspector General (OIG) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services issued a report on antipsychotic drug use in elderly nursing home residents. In its report, the OIG found that when nursing home residents received these drugs, approximately half of the time they were not given for medically accepted indications as required by Medicare, and one-fifth were not given in accordance with federal standards to protect residents from unnecessary antipsychotic drug use. In response to this report, nursing home advocates expressed their concern urging CMS "to do more to address this ongoing threat to quality care and patient safety." In early 2012, CMS launched the National Partnership to Improve Dementia Care in Nursing Homes. CDPH previously issued All Facility Letter (AFL) 12-56 and AFL 1325.1 regarding California's goal to lead the nation in stopping the unnecessary use of antipsychotic drugs and actions and resources related to this objective. Federal regulations impose extra protections for nursing home residents receiving antipsychotic drugs; in part due to concerns regarding potential serious adverse effects and an increased risk of death associated with their use (see Food and Drug Administration Boxed Warnings for typical and atypical antipsychotics).
1. What specific, documented behaviors or symptoms prompted the need for this drug? (Are there delusions, or is the person simply agitated?) 2. Have all possible medical or environmental causes been ruled out? (e.g. pain, dehydration, infection, sleep disruptions) 3. Has the doctor recently physically examined the person to determine the need for the drug? 4. What alternative treatments have been tried? Are other options still available? 5. What are the risks and side effects of the drug? 6. Has the FDA issued black box warnings for this drug? 7. Has the FDA approved the use of this drug for this purpose? 8. How will side effects be monitored? Who will do it? 9. Will the proposed drug interact with any of the resident’s other medications? 10. Is the proposed drug duplicating other current medications? 11. Will the person start on the lowest possible dosage of medication? 12. When and how often will the need for the drug be reassessed? (the law requires a reassessment every three months)
Center for Health Care Quality, MS 0512 ● P.O. Box 997377 ● Sacramento, CA 95899-7377 (916) 324-6630 ● (916) 324-4820 FAX Internet Address: www.cdph.ca.gov
“People living with Alzheimer’s tend more and more to experience a point rather than a line of time. Someone might talk about a long-dead relative as if he were just about to arrive for a visit. Or a daughter of sixty is seen as a sister of thirty. It is as if past experience and the future have drawn together with the present as one; much like how our unconscious minds combine several dimensions of time and place when we dream. The present moment represents all moments.” ~ JOHN ZEISEL from I’m Still Here
You do not have to accept a doctor’s recommendation to use psychoactive drugs. Do not give consent if the doctor has not directly examined the person to determine the need for this drug. Antipsychotic drugs can be deadly. Don’t consent to their use unless you are certain that all other care and treatment options have been exhausted. Consider seeking a second opinion from another doctor or advocate if you have doubts about giving consent.
46 Quality of Life
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Love Comes at Twilight
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hen Kay Miller was 80 years old, she fell in love with a man from Texas whom she met in an online card game room. She was in California, he lived in Texas. But the miles didn’t seem to matter. One day he flew to California to meet her, and they spent five glorious weeks together. It was one of the best times of her life.
“I found out that his wife had Alzheimer’s Disease, and I helped him find a caregiver, deal with his anger, through various health issues…I was like a distant wife figure. It went on for three years. They became very close, sharing intimacies over a screen and through a keyboard, and soon, over phone calls.
And, she wrote a book about it all, “Love Comes at Twilight.”
In September, 2013, they finally met. He flew to California.
Miller has a message for the world: “Life is not over when you age. I want to be sure people see older people, I want to be visible. We have a life, and are real great resources…if you use us.” This new book is one of three, selfpublished by Miller. She admits that her writing is based on her own life, and she is strikingly honest in what she reveals about her own experience. “I tell the truth. I face my fears, and am not intimidated by what people will think,” she says with flashing blue eyes. Her first book, ‘Talking it Out,’ was about her gay son, and how it affected her family and friends. It was published in 2001, and her message was launched for children on “how to tell their parents,” she says. Writing the book gave Miller
“It was wonderful,” remembers Miller, “And, yes, you can have a wonderful sex life at 80. You are much more conscious of the other. It’s actually better, in a lot of ways. I was grateful to be able to feel those feelings.” a platform in life. She attended national conferences, sold books and became a member of the National Gay and Lesbian Journalists Association. She also went back to school, and earned a Ph.D in Psychology at age 58. Miller’s life in Santa Rosa, Ca was a busy one. She was involved with her church, and the gay community, and was a columnist in an alternataive newspaper. She had a partner, and also was his caregiver for the last part of his life. While he was ill, she gave up all her interests to exclusively for him, and when he died in 2007, she found herself alone and stranded in a new reality. “I didn’t know who I was, I lost myself, “ she remembers. For awhile, she just played computer games. But soon found this boring. Then, at church, she was invited to join a Bridge Club. “I was called to play Bridge,” she says laughing, “and I didn’t realize that Bridge was going to open my life.” At the time, she was also keeping a journal. The journal, in all , was really a
story about the experience of aging, and she realized, “my experience needed to be told, people need to get new insight,” So, she then published her excerpts from her journal, “Living with the Stranger in Me, an Exploration of Aging.”
Though short-lived, her romance whispered new life into her being. So, she wrote another book…this time about her love affair.
Even with her writings and social life, she still loved playing Bridge. So, she started playing it online, as well. That’s when she met the man she would love.
“I would like to see this book fly, particularly for the Baby Boomers,” she says. “Life is not over when you age.” Growth, she stresses, is always possible. Age is not a hindrance. And, there’s always the possibility of love, even at twilight.
“We’d chat, and we’d play, and I started realizing that I’m doing all these things, but I’m still lonely, “ she remembers.
Miller’s three books are available online at Amazon.com.
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W
e tell our stories as a way of making sense of our lives. We tell our stories as a way of creating connection with other people. And we tell our stories as a way of being seen and heard and acknowledged. Although everyone has the need to be heard, older adults in particular benefit from telling their story to someone who has significance in their life. As the awareness of one’s mortality becomes more prominent, the need to make sense of one’s life, to reconcile old conflicts, and to lay regrets to rest becomes the final developmental task of a life fully lived. The psychiatrist Erik Erikson called this developmental stage “Integrity vs Despair.” The act of reviewing one’s life is a normal and healthy part of aging and many clinicians believe that a life review occurs naturally as one nears death. Systematic reflection helps to provide an interpretation of one’s role in the world and give life meaning and sense of purpose. It can help to bring closure to life. A life review can be formal or informal; there is no one right way to go through the process. Reminiscence, or talking about past experiences, is usually an informal process that can occur spontaneously or in a group setting. It is simply the act of recalling memories. Reminiscence can be done as part of a group or it can be done with one other person. The benefits of reminiscence include cultivating a deeper sense of self-understanding; understanding one’s personal history and how it relates to the history of the family and/or the culture; and transcending the world of physical limitations. A life review, on the other hand, can take the form of a structured interview and may be more formal. It is often centered on the themes of a person’s life (childhood, marriage, career, travel, values, etc.) and it is usually recorded in some way. Reviewing one’s life with family members can deepen those family connections and help younger family members understand the collective past. Recording the stories of a life in a book or on a video can provide a legacy that is left behind for the family.
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The Life Review as a Family Legacy By Nancy Hoffman
God made man because He loves a good story. ~ Elie Wiesel To conduct a life review, first begin by deciding how you want to record the story. Do you want the person talking on a videotape or audio recorder? Or do you want the stories written out in the form of a book? There are companies who will go through the process with you and provide you with a DVD or CD. However, most people have access to an audio or video recorder and can go through the process easily on their own. A life review should start with easy questions about childhood and early years. When and where were you born? Have you heard any stories about the day you were born? Who were you named for and why? What holidays did your family celebrate and how? What are the biggest changes you’ve seen in the world during your lifetime? What did you do for fun? Questions about childhood and the developmental years can help a person relax into the process of reviewing their life and prepare the ground for upcoming questions about purpose and meaning. The next phase of a life review can focus on the adult years and include relationships, children, education, career, health, travel and other aspects of everyday life. At this point, the interviewer can begin to gently probe for the deeper meaning of a life: What do you most regret doing or not doing and why? What were your dreams for your life and did they become part of your reality? What is your favorite memory and why? What was the
most difficult time in your life and how did you cope? Who has had the most influence on you? Do you think you have had an influence on others? What is your philosophy of life? How do you cope with the many changes that come with aging? How would you like to be remembered?
The interviewer should practice active listening and not just sit passively waiting for the next story. To help with the flow of the story, background noise such as TVs and radios should be avoided. Ask probing questions that show you are listening and interested: What happened next? Can you tell me more about that? The life review process can be a valuable time for both the speaker and the listener. Listen carefully, reflect on what is being said, and ask respectful questions. As Simone Weil said, “Attention is the rarest and purest form of generosity.” Pay attention. You just might learn something! Nancy Hoffman is a practicing geriatric psychologist located in Benicia, CA.
YES! Please contact me for advertising in the Born to Age 2016 Napa County Directory Name_________________________________ Business Name_________________________ Address_______________________________ Phone________________________________ Email_________________________________ Any comments on this directory?___________ _____________________________________ ____________________________________ Suggestions for next year?________________ _____________________________________ Send to: Born to Age P.O. Box 6863 Napa, CA 95581 707-226-7127 www.borntoage.com
48 Final Wishes
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BODY & ORGAN DONATION
Jim Nord P.O. Box 690 Napa, CA 94558 255-5429 (See ad on page 11)
UC San Francisco Willed Body Program Department of Anatomy School of Medicine, AC-14 San Francisco, CA 415-476-1981
Pacific Fiduciary Services P.O. Box 2947 Suisun City, CA 94585 Phone: (707) 426-0926 Thomas J. Kiernan, CLPF Email:
[email protected]
California Transplant Donor Network 1611 Telegraph Ave., Suite 600 Oakland, CA 94612 888-570-9400 CREMATION SERVICES
Final Wishes: Index to Articles Consumer Protection Price Survey on Death Arrangements - Napa County..................................................49 Conscious Dying is a Choice for Comfort and Compassion..........50
ESTATE ADMINISTRATION
Acacia Cremation and Burial Society 877-916-4779 www.acaciasociety.com Affordable cremation and burial services Family owned and operated FD 2046 and FD 2103
Private Professional Fiduciary as trustee, personal representative, attorney-in-fact and conservator. (See ad on page 11)
Encountering the Edge: They’re Not Staring at Nothing.................50
Napa Valley Hospice Adult Day Services Compassion. Dignity. Connection.
Alzheimer’s Resource Center Chronic Disease Management Memory Screenings End of Life Care Caregiver Support Grief Support Advance Care Planning Integrated Latino Services
36 Years of Compassionate Service to Napa County ADULT DAY HEALTHCARE • TRANSITIONS PALLIATIVE CARE • HOSPICE
414 South Jefferson Street | Napa 707.258.9080 | www.nvhads.org
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GRIEF SUPPORT GROUPS Napa Valley Hospice and Adult Day Services 414 S. Jefferson St., Napa, CA 258-9080 “Tea and Comfort” Tuesdays, 4:00-5:30 p.m. “Coffee and Conversation” (for Men only) Fridays, 9:30-11 a.m. Napa Grief Support Thursdays, 4-5:30 p.m. Loss of a Loved One to Suicide Wednesdays, 4-5:30 p.m. (See ad on page 48)
Final Wishes 49
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HOSPICE
Paul M. Hoff Zeller, Hoff & Zeller 929 Randolph St. Napa, CA 94559 252-6633 www.zhz.com (See ad on page 9)
PALLIATIVE CARE
Hospice by the Bay 707-935-7504 hospicebythebay.org (See ad on page 49)
Transitions Palliative Care 414 South Jefferson St. Napa, CA 94559 254-4161
Napa Valley Hospice and Adult Day Services 414 S. Jefferson St. Napa, CA 94559 258-9080 (See ad on page 48)
TRUST / PROBATE ADMINISTRATION Jim Nord P.O. Box 690 Napa, CA 255-5429 (See ad on page 11)
Now caring for patients and families in the City of Napa California’s oldest hospice Compassionate end-of-life care Medicare, Medi-Cal or private insurance
The Threshold Choir
Pacific Fiduciary Services P.O. Box 2947 Suisun City, CA 94585 Phone: (707) 426-0926 Thomas J. Kiernan, CLPF Email:
[email protected] Private Professional Fiduciary as trustee, personal representative, attorney-in-fact and conservator. (See ad on page 11)
(707) 935.7504 • hospicebythebay.org
In groups of two or four, women with compassionate voices sing for people facing serious illness or death. Gentle songs, from a variety of traditions are sung in private homes, care facilities and hospitals. There is no charge, though donations are apprcieated. Practice is held the second and fourth Thursdays, from 7-9 p.m. Women who are drawn to this work and can carry a tune can contact: Sudie Pollock, at 326-6436.
Consumer Protection Price Survey on Death Arrangements - Napa County Direct Cremation
Crematory Fee
Containers
3-Day Storage
Deposition Permit $12 Death Cert. $21
Total Cost of Direct Cremation
Immediate Burial
Lowest Listed Casket
3-Day Storage
Deposition Permit $11 Death Cert. $16
Total Cost of Direct Burial
$1440
Included
Included
Included
$33
$1473
$1395
$990
Included
$33
$2418
$1395
Included
Included
Included
$33
$1428
$1790
Cardboard container included
Included
$33
$1823
Claffey & Rota Funeral Home
$1095
Included
Included
Included
$33
$1128
$1200
$495
Included
$33
$1728
Morrison's Funeral Chapel
$2340
Included
Included
Included
$33
$2373
$2345
$1495
Included
$33
$3873
Napa Valley Memorial Park Mortuary
$1585
Included
Included
Included
$33
$1615
$1270
$295
Included
$33
$1598
Acacia Cremation & Burial Society
$749
Included
Included
Included
Permit included Death cert $16
$768
$2246
Included
Included
Included
$2262
Treadway & Wigger Funeral Chapel Tulocay Cemetery (Non -profit) We welcome comparisons
In updating this survey for 2015, Born to Age only compared the prices for either a direct cremation or immediate/direct burial. Each of the mortuaries have extensive price lists of all their package deals, and must disclose the charges for everything involved in planning a funeral. Anyone can request a price list at anytime. Local mortuaries charge a range of prices for the similar services.
Compare prices. Prices can change and cannot be guaranteed from this chart. Before you start looking around, decide exactly what you'd like in terms of final arrangements. Not everyone wants a direct cremation or burial. But, know that the mortuaries do have price lists for everything,from caskets, to mementos, and even jewelry.
What Direct Cremation usually includes: 1. An alternative container (usually a cardboard container) 2. Removal of the body within the mortuary service area and transportation to the crematorium. (usually within 7-35 miles). 3. A 3-day storage fee. 4. Obtaining required permits. 5. Cost of using a crematory.
Prepared October 2014 by Born to Age. All prices were taken from general price lists.
What Direct Burial usually includes 1. Obtaining necessary permits. 2. Removal of the body within the mortuary's local service area (usually within 7-35 miles from a facility) and transportation to a local cemetery. 3. A 3-day storage fee
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Conscious Dying is A Choice for Comfort and Compassion By Yvonne Baginski
Hospice was called in.
I
have just returned from the bedside of my Uncle Victor, who has spent the last five years living with the help of a kidney dialysis machine. My uncle was always one of those people who told us that he “didn’t want to go on machines,” to extend his life. But, when it came to a decision of the dialysis machine, he changed his mind. My Aunt Paula, his wife of 51 years, became his nurse, caregiver, dialysis technician and expert on all that is needed to run an in-home dialysis machine. And, for five days of every week, he’d be hooked up for four hours a day. That didn’t include the hour it took to set up, or disengage from it. Their lives revolved around the machine cleaning his blood from the toxicity buildup of everyday life. They also became experts on nutrition, the do’s and don’t’s of food, and became totally dependent on each other in this life saving endeavor to allow him more time on earth. It was clearly a devotion of love and sacrifice. They watched favorite TV shows, had breakfast together, took drives, went on walks and entertained lots of relatives and friends who came by to visit. On their 50th wedding anniversary, their four children threw a party that lasted an entire day, and people from their past flew in from all over the United States to help celebrate. We gave them a memorable tribute to their life, their love and the difference they made in all our worlds. The smiling, laughing and tears flowed all day. We thought Uncle Victor wouldn’t last long after that. But, he did. One more year. During that year, I drove up to Ashland, Oregon three times to visit. We talked almost weekly. There were reflections, insights, and stories exchanged. But mostly, there was love. If there is anything that I will remember about my Uncle Victor, it will be how much he loved life, his family, food and a great dark beer.
But, even on dialysis, he suffered. There were bouts of depression, erratic pain, worries about finances and fear of what the future might bring. On my visit last July, I saw that he was not the same man I saw a year ago. His arms were bruised and scarred from needle sticks, he slept almost all day, and his words were more measured and controlled. But, he still laughed with us, watched the movie, “Across the Universe,” and asked that we pick him up some good sushi from his favorite Japanese restaurant. In early August, he fell against the wall and broke his rib. The pain became a constant source of concern. A conversation with his doctor made him realize that it was time to let go of dialysis and make the decision to die. He had to tell his four children, six grandchildren, his two siblings and numerous family members and friends. Word spread fast, and they quickly became overwhelmed with phone calls. Everyone wanted to know what to do next, how to help and when to visit. Most of us don’t have the opportunity to prepare for death in this way. One relative encouraged him to hold onto dialysis and continue living until overtaken by death. But, my uncle saw a different way, a way that he wanted to die. Once his dialysis stopped, doctors estimated he’d have anywhere from five days to three weeks to live. My aunt cried when the machine was disconnected. But, both felt that the decision was the right one.
Then the visits started. My uncle wanted to be surrounded by the people he loved, and he wanted everyone in the room at the same time. So, his hospital bed was set up in the middle of the living room and he welcomed all visitors, no matter what time of day. So, just as with their 50th wedding celebration, people started flocking in from all corners of his past. His best friend from Chicago, his car mechanic, his doctors, his neighbors...everyone came in to say goodbye and tell him, in person, how much he meant in their life. He soaked it all up with a smile. Uncle Victor gleamed with love. Until each and everyone one of us told him at his bedside, he had no idea what a difference he made in all our lives. Especially mine. I always knew he loved me, I could count on him to listen and help me in a crisis, and he laughed at my jokes and stories. So, last week, when I hugged him for the last time, he was able to hug me back with the courage and strength he’s been all his life. I drove back to Napa in six hours of sadness and reminiscing about all the moments of our life together. So many memories. There is a black and white photo taped to a kitchen cabinet at his house. It’s dated 1956. He is holding me in his arms, I’m a year old and he’s about 20 years old. Everyone looks at it, recognizing that a lot of time has passed from then until now. Today, it doesn’t seem like much time at all. There will be no memorial service for Uncle Victor. In making a conscious decision to die, he is asking us for a memorial service while he’s still alive, so he can see, hear and feel all the memories and stories once again. I think I’d want to die the same way. Facing it, feeling it and knowing that my life had meaning, purpose, and that I made a small difference while I was here.
They’re Not Staring at Nothing From Encountering the Edge: What People Told Me Before They Died, by Karen B. Kaplan
A
fter all these years (as a hospice chaplain), of being with person within minutes or hours of their death, I still feel a sense of mystery in their presence. When their eyes are open or half open, I still feel a sense of mystery in their presence. I most definitely do not get the impression that they are staring into nothingness. Often they look like they are peering into and preparing for some other kind of reality beyond. I sense the sacredness of transition, as powerful as when I have witnessed persons in other transitions, such as newborns, newlyweds, recent converts and people making major decisions. Could it be that death has something in common with these other transitions? Could it be just as hard as it is to leave the womb behind...we “outgrow” the comfort zone of life itself and must allow ourselves to dwell in the wider expanse we label ‘death’ for want of a better word?
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Darcey Jezycki, Community Resource Connector and Friendly Visitor
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Howie Broxton, Transportation Driver and Friendly Visitor
Betsy Kerr, American Canyon Community Resource Connector and Friendly Visitor
Bob Wallin, Volunteer Financial, Real Estate and Mortgage Consultant
Share the Care 492-3198 Tom MacDonald, Computer Consultant, Organizer, and Mortgage Expert
Napa Valley Information
♥
Assistance
♥
Referrals
♥
Advocacy
Lisa Ragone, Advocate for Medical and Dental Needs, Friendly Visitor
JOIN US!
Join Our Volunteers in Helping Make Napa Valley a Terrific Place to Age! Neighbors helping Neighbors - That’s what Share the Care is all about! We assist in finding rides, companionship, home care, legal help, counseling, gardening and handyman services, home repairs, medical equipment, grocery pick-up and delivery, mail management and paperwork, support groups, meals, activities, and whatever else that may be needed.
Our volunteers will help you solve problems. Call us to find out how YOU can become a Volunteer.
Not Pictured: Billie Hewitt, Yountville; Maria Myers, Yountville; Sandy Dickinson, Calistoga; Joice Beatty, St. Helena.
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NAPA VALLEY’S
Premier Post-Acute Rehab Therapy Services
Amenities
Our dedicated team of
•
Hip/knee fracture
•
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staff therapists customize
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Joint replacement
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Private phones & TVs
programs focused on
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Stroke recovery
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Private & semi-private suites
helping you regain the
•
Post cardiac surgery
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Transportation services
strength, function and
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Post general surgery
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Fabulous homestyle dining
mobility necessary for
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Swallowing disorder
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Modern therapy gym
a safe and successful
•
Wound treatment
Discharge Planning & Placement Options
return home.
Stop by for a personalized tour of our facility and 1,000 square foot fully-equipped modern gym.
Napa Valley Care Center Inpatient Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation tel (707) 257-0931 fax (707) 258-5526 www.NapaValleyCareCenter.com
