Every day in the US an estimated 10,000 individuals turn 65 years of age, leading to family conversations that include an array of new terms.  Below is a list of five terms you should know to face the new realities of a rapidly maturing society:

• Aging in Place.  Many, if given the choice, would choose to stay in their own home.  Making modifications to an existing home often include fall prevention measures such as grab bars in the bathroom; support for getting up and down stairs such as ramps; bringing in support to handle home maintenance, and care services that may cost on average $20-30 dollars an hour depending on experience, licensing, and insurance.
• Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRC).  This type of community offers multiple levels of services including independent living options.  Some Seattle-based CCRCs are rental based, while most require a “buy-in” where a portion is returned at a later date or the full amount of the “buy-in” amortizes over time.  A “buy-in” can range from $30,000 to over $1 million. CCRCs may or may not offer services also described below.
• Assisted Living.  This type of community is built on the positive premise of socialization and individualized care support in a more residential setting.  Services benefit those who need support with activities of daily living (ADLs) which include dressing, bathing, eating, toileting, and transitioning from place to place; medication management often is included.
• Memory Care. This is a community or part of a community built to provide a secure environment for those with dementia and other cognitive challenges.  The community should provide a stimulating, engaging experience that respects where a resident is in their cognitive progression.
• Nursing Home.  This is a place where convalescent and/or chronic care with nurse involvement and oversight is available for patients who are unable to properly care for themselves.  This type of facility is often used for those with rehabilitation needs following a hospital stay or by those facing complex disease challenges.
• Adult Family Home (AFH).  This is a residential home licensed to provide personal care focused on ADLs for up to six non-related individuals.  Though it provides fewer amenities and resources than an assisted living community, an AFH often provides its services at a lower price.

For additional information, please consult  www.AegisonMadison.com.

For those enrolled in the state-run health insurance plans, coverage begins January 1. Thousands of eligible King County residents still haven’t signed up – are you one of them?

If you’ve been putting enrollment off because it’s too overwhelming, help is near. More than 600 expert “in-person assisters” are traveling around the county, helping folks sign up face-to-face.

Want to know when they’ll be in your neck of the woods? Text KING plus your ZIP code to 468311. You’ll receive regular updates about opportunities to get one-on-one help near you.

Already signed up? Tell your friends! Enrollment can be confusing, but there’s plenty of help available.

Please contact Kim @ 910 20th–dog’s name is Bracie or Blacie–owner was going door to door Thursday night.