Author: Bailey Wallingford

Financial Planning for a Retirement Community

Moving into a senior living community is a major life decision that requires careful consideration, especially when it comes to financial planning. Understanding the types of senior living communities, assessing the costs, and budgeting for the future are all essential to making an informed decision.

Senior living communities come with a range of services, amenities, and costs. Identifying the type of community that best suits your needs is the first step in planning your finances for senior living.

Independent or Active Adult Communities: These communities provide a residential environment with many amenities and activities but tend to offer minimal medical care. Their costs are generally lower than other communities since they do not include healthcare services.
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer more extensive healthcare services including assistance with daily activities, bathing, or dressing. The cost may be higher than other communities due to the level of care provided. If residents require more care than the assisted living community can offer, they may need to hire additional assistance or relocate to a skilled nursing facility, which can further increase expenses.
Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs): CCRCs provide a full continuum of care including independent living, assisted living, and skilled nursing care, all within the same community. These communities may have a higher price than others, but offer considerably more healthcare services, amenities, and life enrichment opportunities.

Assess the Costs

If you added up the cost of all your monthly expenses, what would the total be?

Many seniors are often surprised to find that when they add up all of their current expenses, they are already spending as much, if not more, than what the monthly fee at a senior living community would be.

Living at home requires you to pay separate bills for most expenses such as your mortgage, utilities, home maintenance, and other services. You also have to budget for things like groceries, healthcare costs, entertainment, and travel expenses.

Imagine how much easier managing your finances would be if your expenses were bundled into a single monthly payment. That is exactly the kind of structure senior living communities can provide.

At communities like Maple Knoll Village, your monthly fee covers all essentials including your rent, utilities, maintenance, housekeeping, and more. But the value goes beyond just the basics—this fee also includes a wide range of life-enriching activities from educational workshops and happy hours to musical performances and excursions. Plus, residents enjoy access to many on-site amenities like the fitness center, technology lab, swimming pool, library, and more.

Try out Maple Knoll Village’s comparison evaluation form to see how your current expenses stack up against the cost of living in a retirement community.

Budget for the Future

Planning a budget for the future is essential when considering senior living, as it provides financial stability and peace of mind throughout your retirement years.

Start by evaluating your current income sources, including Social Security, pensions, investments, and savings. Compare this income list to the costs associated with senior living, while also factoring in potential future expenses. As you age, your healthcare needs and the level of assistance required may increase, making it essential to plan for these possibilities.

Choosing a continuing care retirement community (CCRC) can be an excellent option for those looking to budget and plan for the future. With all levels of care available on a single campus, you can have peace of mind knowing your needs will be met, no matter how they evolve over time. CCRC’s typically have a one-time entrance fee accompanied by a monthly fee that is designed to ensure all of your needs are met. As a non-profit CCRC, Maple Knoll Village is able to provide an added layer of assurance to residents with the Future Care Plan. This benevolent care program provides financial support to residents should their monetary resources become depleted due to no fault of their own ensuring all of their needs continue to be met.

A well-developed financial plan allows seniors to enjoy retirement without the constant worry of financial uncertainty. This includes having the resources to pursue hobbies, travel, and other activities that enhance your quality of life. Working with a financial planner can help you create a realistic budget that accounts for both your current situation and future needs.

For more information on financial planning resources or to learn more about Maple Knoll Village please contact us at 513-782-2717.

What is a Continuing Care Retirement Community?

As the aging population continues to increase, so does the need for innovative senior living solutions that provide the care needed to age gracefully. One of the more popular options for many seniors is the Continuing Care Retirement Community, or CCRC.

LeadingAge defines CCRCs as retirement communities that offer a full range of living accommodations by providing a unique blend of independence, community, and a supportive continuum of care within a single campus. With a wide range of health services and amenities, residents of these communities can seamlessly transition to a higher level of care should their healthcare needs change over time.

CCRCs provide various levels of care including independent living, assisted living, and skilled nursing care.

Independent living is best suited to seniors who primarily lead a self-sufficient lifestyle but prefer to reside in a community that offers social activities, dining options, and other amenities. CCRCs like Maple Knoll Village provide a variety of living accommodations for those residing in independent living neighborhoods including villas, single level homes, and apartments. Services such as maintenance, housekeeping, and landscaping are designed to help free residents of the burdens of daily life allowing them to be as active as they desire with numerous provided opportunities for life enrichment.

Assisted living is designed to provide the necessary assistance for those who need help with daily activities while still allowing them to maintain their independence. Maple Knoll Village provides assisted living residents with individualized care plans that offer the support needed for bathing, grooming, dressing, medication reminders, and more. With the 24/7 presence of nursing staff, ongoing health monitoring, and frequent wellness checks, assisted living residents at Maple Knoll Village enjoy proactive and compassionate care.

Skilled nursing care offers comprehensive healthcare for older adults that may require an elevated level of assistance with daily activities or rehabilitation services. Skilled nursing communities are short-term and long-term residences that focus more heavily on medical assistance for those with chronic illnesses, injuries, or individuals that require 24-hour supervised care. Located within Maple Knoll Village, Bodmann Skilled Health Center allows residents to maintain their dignity and pride no matter what level of care they may require. Compassionate care and support are provided with a wide array of healthcare services, individualized care plans, engaging activities based on cognitive abilities, and attentive staff.

By providing these various levels of care, CCRCs can proactively accommodate the changing needs of their residents over time. In fact, AARP has found that one of the chief benefits of CCRCs is the stability and peace of mind provided to older adults and their loved ones alike, knowing there is high quality care and services offered in one place.

While CCRCs may require an upfront entrance fee and ongoing monthly fees, they also offer financial predictability. Many CCRCs have contracts that outline future care costs, which can help residents and their loved one’s plan for long-term expenses. As a nonprofit continuing care retirement community, Maple Knoll Village provides an added layer of assurance with the Future Care Plan. This benevolent care program provides support to Maple Knoll Village residents should their financial resources become depleted due to no fault of their own ensuring they have found their forever home.

Choosing to live at a CCRC like Maple Knoll Village means you will enjoy a full continuum of care, a supportive environment, and a vibrant community. Our variety of services, all provided in one location, allow you to stay within the same community even as your or your loved one’s healthcare needs might change. To learn more about Maple Knoll Village, please visit us online at www.mapleknoll.org.

Embracing Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month: A Guide for Seniors

As we age, it is normal for our bodies and minds to undergo various changes. But when those changes begin to interfere with daily life, there may be a more serious underlying issue such as dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. With June being Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month, now is an ideal time to understand the value of brain health, especially for seniors.

Understanding Alzheimer’s Disease

While often used interchangeably, it is important to understand that dementia and Alzheimer’s disease are not the same thing. Dementia is the general term for a decline in mental ability severe enough to interfere with daily life, while Alzheimer’s is a specific form of dementia.

The Alzheimer’s Association defines Alzheimer’s as “a brain disease that causes problems with memory, thinking, and behavior”. The disease progresses slowly, with symptoms worsening over time, making early intervention crucial. A timely diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease can significantly improve the quality of life for older adults and their families by allowing access to support services and advancements in medicine. Most importantly, it enables individuals to plan for the future and make important decisions regarding their care.

Key symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease include:

Memory loss that disrupts daily life
Difficulty in completing familiar tasks
Confusion with time or place
Trouble with speaking or writing
Misplacing common items
Decreased judgement
Changes in mood or personality

If you have noticed one or more of the signs listed above in a loved one, it may be time to address your concerns with your loved one and a medical professional. While it is natural to be nervous or not know how to approach the subject, these changes could indicate a serious, underlying health concern and should not be ignored.

Promoting Brain Health

While there is currently no cure for Alzheimer’s disease, certain lifestyle choices can help promote brain health and help reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer’s or dementia. The CDC offers the following tips to help maintain brain health:

Stay Physically Active: Regular exercise increases blood flow to the brain and can help improve brain health and reduce the risk of depression and anxiety. Activities such as walking and swimming can be beneficial for older adults. The Hemsworth Wellness Center at Maple Knoll Village consists of highly trained staff members that curate programs designed specifically for older adults and their physical abilities.

Eat a Balanced Diet: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins supports overall health. Managing your blood sugar can also have benefits for your physical and mental health.

Keep the Mind Active: Engage in activities that challenge your brain, such as puzzles, reading, or learning a new skill. The Life Enrichment department at Maple Knoll Village offers numerous opportunities for critical thinking and learning through their robust program offerings.

Stay Socially Engaged: Social interactions can help maintain cognitive function and improve your overall mood. Find ways to be social and participate in community activities such as joining a club or volunteering once a week. Residents at Maple Knoll Village have opportunities to join various clubs on campus such as writing club, drama club, book club, golf scramble, the community garden club, and much more.

Get Quality Sleep: According to the Sleep Foundation, the older people get, the more their quality and duration of sleep can alter due to natural changes in their body and brain. Because poor sleep has been linked to an increased risk of Alzheimer’s, it is essential that older adults maintain a regular sleep schedule and try to get at least seven hours of sleep per night. Reducing bedroom distractions, developing a bedtime routine, and avoiding substances that discourage sleep such as caffeine or large meals before bed can all assist in a better night’s sleep.

Brain awareness is crucial for older adults to help ensure a high quality of life and independence. By understanding the importance of brain health and adopting proactive measures, seniors can significantly enhance their cognitive functions and overall well-being. The Alzheimer’s Association has many great resources to educate and assist you with approaching the topic of memory concerns and supporting loved ones with Alzheimer’s or dementia. Communities such as Maple Knoll Village offer compassionate memory support with staff specifically trained to assist those with Alzheimer’s or dementia.

This Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month let’s prioritize brain health and empower seniors to live their best lives.

Embracing Generosity

While the act of giving knows no bounds, there is a special place where it can have a profound impact – a nonprofit retirement community.

Retirement communities are essential for our aging loved ones and can provide them with a quality home for their golden years. But simply having a roof over their heads is not enough. Nonprofit retirement communities place quality of life and the well-being of residents over the bottom-line profit. In fact, at a nonprofit community, all funds are invested back into the community providing elevated comfort, care, and quality of life for residents.

Nonprofit retirement communities thrive when enveloped in an atmosphere of generosity and kindness. Giving to a nonprofit community has numerous benefits for both recipients and those who give such as enhanced community offerings, a sense of belonging, and a culture of gratitude.

Enhanced Community Offerings

Financial contributions to non-profit retirement communities can allow for improved facilities and expanded services. This may include upgraded living accommodations, innovative solutions for senior care, and overall improved quality of life for residents.

Whether it is funding healthcare services, recreational activities, or educational programs, donations from the community play a crucial role in enhancing the quality of life for seniors. These generous contributions enrich the daily lives of residents, providing them with opportunities for joy, laughter, and personal growth.

Creating a Sense of Belonging

Whether it is through donations, volunteer work, or simple acts of kindness – giving to a nonprofit retirement community like Maple Knoll Village provides a shared purpose. This sense of camaraderie can help combat feelings of isolation and loneliness by creating a supportive environment in which everyone feels valued and appreciated.

For those living in retirement communities, engaging in acts of kindness and philanthropy can boost self-esteem, reduce stress, and increase their overall happiness levels. Likewise, receiving support and assistance from volunteers and donors can uplift their spirits and instill a sense of optimism. This creates a positive atmosphere full of mutual respect, kindness, and empathy which fosters stronger relationships among residents and staff members.

A Culture of Gratitude

In a world where acts of kindness and generosity are more important than ever, giving to nonprofit retirement communities stands out as a profoundly meaningful endeavor. Knowing that they have made a positive difference in the lives of seniors can be a source of pride and fulfillment for donors and volunteers alike.

By giving to a nonprofit retirement community, individuals leave behind a lasting legacy of compassion and kindness. Their contributions not only make a difference in the lives of current residents but also pave the way for future generations to benefit from the same spirit of generosity. This creates a timeless gift that continues to enrich the lives of others for years to come.

If you would like to make a difference and contribute to the lives of seniors in our community, visit us online at https://mapleknoll.org/donate/.

Recognizing the Signs Your Loved One Needs Memory Support

As our loved one’s age, it is natural for them to experience cognitive changes such as occasionally forgetting where they placed their keys or mixing up the time for an appointment. But when these changes begin occurring more frequently and interfere with their daily life, it may be a sign that memory support is needed.

Understanding the signs to look out for can help older adults receive the care and support they need to live a happy and fulfilling life. Below are common signs that your loved one may need memory support.

Increased forgetfulness or confusion

One of the most common signs of cognitive decline is increased forgetfulness that goes beyond the norm. According to the National Institute on Aging, consistent forgetfulness such as failing to recall important or recent events or forgetting the names of people they know well could indicate your loved one is experiencing memory problems outside of the typical age-related forgetfulness.

Older adults with more advanced memory problems may also experience confusion or disorientation in familiar environments such as getting lost in their own neighborhood, placing items in unusual places, or accusing others of stealing those misplaced items. This confusion can become stressful for your loved one if left unaddressed for too long.

Difficulty with familiar tasks

Struggling to perform tasks that were once routine can be a warning sign that your loved one is experiencing memory loss. The Mayo Clinic advises that difficulty with tasks your loved one has performed for years such as following a favorite recipe, paying their bills, or managing their medications could demonstrate a need for memory support.

Challenges with communication

Struggling to communicate or follow conversations could also be a symptom of memory problems. The Cleveland Clinic suggests that experiencing challenges with communication such as frequently repeating themselves, losing their train of thought midsentence, or having trouble finding the right word may indicate that your loved one is experiencing increased cognitive decline.

Changes in Judgement and Behavior

Unfortunately, memory problems can affect an older adult’s judgement and ability to make decisions. Making unusual or risky decisions such as giving away large sums of money, repeatedly falling victim to the same scam, or exhibiting impaired judgement in everyday decisions are all signs your loved one may need memory support.

You might also notice changes in your loved one’s behavior or personality. The National Institute on Aging shares that memory issues can lead to social withdrawal and changes in behavior such as losing interest in activities they once enjoyed, experiencing mood swings or depression, and imagining things that aren’t there.

The time to act is now

If your loved one is experiencing some or all of these symptoms, it may be time to look at memory supportive living.

The award-winning memory support at Maple Knoll Village empowers older adults to lead independent and purposeful lives.

With a home-like environment, nursing staff on-site 24/7, and personalized care plans, you can rest assured that your loved one’s needs will be well taken care of Maple Knoll Village. Our memory support staff are well-equipped and trained to provide specialized care that helps older adults maintain their cognitive skills, sense of self, and quality of life by creating meaningful routines that help reduce frustration.

Let Maple Knoll Village take care of your loved one with assisted living memory support. Experience the Best Memory Care in the Greater Cincinnati area according to the 2023 Cincinnati Choice Awards!

Call 513-782-2717 or visit us online to begin your loved one’s journey to a better future today!

The Vital Role of Social Workers in Senior Living Communities

A social worker in a senior living community is a professional who specializes in providing support, assistance, and advocacy for older adults. They are often the unsung heroes who work tirelessly behind the scenes to provide vital care and compassion to residents. Some of the key roles social workers hold include helping residents navigate transitions, advocating for their overall well-being, and encouraging respect and resilience.

Navigating transitions

Moving to a senior living community is a significant life change that can cause feelings of anxiety or stress. Social workers help assist residents and their families by providing emotional support and assistance.

Whether it is transitioning to a higher level of care, coping with moving, or grappling with age-related health challenges, social workers provide invaluable support to residents and their families every step of the way. They offer counseling services, facilitate family meetings, and coordinate with healthcare professionals to ensure seamless transitions that prioritize the emotional well-being and comfort of the resident.

By addressing mental health concerns proactively, social workers help promote an environment where individuals can thrive emotionally, despite the inevitable challenges they may face as they age.

Advocating for the resident’s well-being

Social workers also serve as tireless advocates that seek to uphold the residents’ rights within their community. They recognize that every resident has unique interests, preferences, and needs and respect the resident’s individuality by advocating for care plans that will meet these specific requirements.

They also help ensure that the resident’s voice is heard, their rights are respected, and their choices are honored. Whether it is navigating complex healthcare systems, facilitating care plan discussions, or addressing concerns about living conditions, social workers uphold the dignity of every resident under their care.

Encouraging respect and resilience

Unfortunately, healthcare challenges often occur throughout the aging process and can have negative effects on the emotional well-being of residents. Feelings of anxiety or depression can cause residents to withdraw and socially isolate themselves. Through group activities, support groups, and one-on-one interactions, social workers can create opportunities for residents to forge meaningful connections by creating a sense of community. In doing so, they not only alleviate feelings of loneliness and isolation but also nurture an environment where there is mutual support and respect.

Social workers also help empower residents and their families to become more resilient by equipping them with coping strategies and problem-solving skills that help them navigate life challenges. Whether it is coping with chronic illness, mourning the loss of a loved one, or adjusting to changes in healthcare needs, social workies help instill a sense of optimism and resilience.

The role of a social worker far surpasses what is outlined in their job description. Their commitment to compassion, advocacy, and empowerment is truly invaluable to those they care for. In a world where human connection is a necessity, social workers are the unsung heroes who help create thriving senior living communities.

Are Retirement Communities Worth It?

maple knoll village retirement community

Are you considering a retirement community for yourself or your loved one?

With so many options for senior living available, it can be hard to decide if a retirement community is the best fit for you or your loved one. Here are some factors to consider when evaluating the value of retirement communities:

Lifestyle Needs: Retirement communities often offer a range of amenities and services designed to appeal to a diverse population. They also supply a built-in social network of friendly neighbors to help combat loneliness and isolation by providing companionship. Communities such as Maple Knoll Village offer extensive amenities such as a fitness center, indoor pool, technology learning lab, certified arboretum with walking trails, travel opportunities, planned social events, and more.

If you value an active and socially engaged lifestyle, retirement communities can certainly provide you with a fulfilling and enriching environment.

Maintenance-Free Living: The older we get, the harder it becomes to safely maintain the upkeep of large homes and spacious yards. Retirement communities will often provide maintenance-free living services to alleviate the burden of house upkeep. These services may include housekeeping, landscaping, and maintenance. Maple Knoll Village also offers services such as security, snow removal, transportation, an onsite full-service salon, and more. The less time spent on the tedious tasks of upkeep, the more time available to spend living life to the fullest.

Long-Term Planning: Consider your long-term needs. Will a retirement community be better able to meet your needs as you age? Some retirement communities have a continuum of care that allows residents to transition to higher levels of care such as assisted living or skilled nursing when necessary. These communities are categorized as continuing care retirement communities (CCRC).

As a CCRC, Maple Knoll Village provides peace of mind for residents knowing they have found a place to call home for the rest of their lives, regardless of how their healthcare needs may change. If you or a loved one have specific health needs or anticipate needing more assistance with daily activities as you age, a retirement community with on-site healthcare services may be the best fit for you.

Financial Considerations: The cost of living in a retirement community varies widely depending on the location of the community, services offered, and your individual needs.

Some seniors may choose to age in place in their home. But as they grow older, they may need to hire outside help for housekeeping, lawn maintenance, and personal care needs. It is essential to consider all factors when evaluating if a retirement community is worth the cost. Evaluate the initial entry fee, monthly fees, and services or amenities offered at the community. Compare these costs with the expenses associated with maintaining your current home and projected expenses as you age.

Having a financial plan in mind for future needs will help you make the best evaluation possible.

Research and Visit: The best ways to learn about a retirement community are to visit it in person, view their website or online resources, and speak to their current residents. Most retirement communities will have designated staff available to show you around and help you determine if their community is the best fit.

Many communities also will have social media sites that are great at giving you an inside look at what life is like at that specific community. Maple Knoll Village has a very active presence on Facebook and Instagram where you can see photos and videos of real resident homes, events, trips, and more!

Deciding whether a retirement community is worth it really is a personal decision based on your unique needs and wants. If you value amenities, peace of mind, and a sense of community, retirement communities like Maple Knoll Village are certainly a great option for you to live out your retirement years to the fullest.

2023 MKV Inductee into the Ohio Senior Citizens Hall of Fame – Gary Booth

While there are countless unsung heroes throughout history that are deserving of great recognition and appreciation, few have dedicated their retirement years to creating a better and more sustainable world that will be led by future generations to come. One such older adult, Gary Booth, has done just that.

Born and raised in Kentucky, Gary has stayed connected with his roots as he seeks to elevate the community through various scholarships, academic support, economic research, and green energy projects. His “retirement” is spent dedicated to helping today’s students gain the skills needed to change tomorrow’s future.

After earning his doctorate in organic chemistry from Ohio State University, Gary went on to work at Procter & Gamble as a phenomenally successful research manager. During his 31-year career at P&G, Gary contributed to the development of well-known products such as Bounty paper towels, Pantene shampoo, Crest toothpaste, Folgers coffee, and many more items that have now become a staple in most households.

In 2008, Gary and his wife, Jane, established the Booth Scholarship Fund for Chemistry and Biochemistry at Ohio State. The goal of this scholarship fund is to provide fully covered educational opportunities for future generations of chemists regardless of their financial limitations. Both Gary and his wife also serve as mentors for each recipient of the Booth Scholarship Fund allowing them to mentor the students both professionally and academically. In 2016, Gary was awarded the Ohio State University Distinguished Service Award in recognition of his efforts in educating and mentoring the next generation of scientists and chemists.

Gary also remains a dedicated Eastern Kentucky University (EKU) alumnus, helping provide underserved students with scholarships and the emotional support necessary to succeed in college. He has also been a driving force behind creating a more sustainable environment. His company, Starshine Energy, has built six solar farms in Kentucky. Three of these are at schools, including Eastern Kentucky and Morehead State Universities, and allow students to mine data and learn more about the production of power and the process of extracting valuable information from a large database.

The Starshine Energy solar farms are only a portion of his solar projects. For over 20 years, he has worked with SonLight Power—a Christian organization that focuses on bringing power to poor communities by installing solar panels in Guatemala, Haiti, and Africa.

Gary is highly involved in the economic development of Ohio and Kentucky. For a decade he has chaired a team of alumni who mentor professors at Ohio State University in developing businesses from their research. And in Kentucky, he actively mentors and funds a team of high school boys who believe they can grow the world’s best strawberries hydroponically.

Other prestigious accomplishments include receiving an honorary doctoral degree from EKU in 2005, being among the first to receive the EKU College of Science Award in 2017 due to his impactful contributions and receiving an honorary Doctor of Science degree and professorship in chemistry from St. Petersburg University in Russia.

When Gary made the move to Maple Knoll Village retirement community, located in Cincinnati, Ohio, in the fall of 2020 his passion for creating a more sustainable future only increased. He is an enthusiastic member of the resident Arboretum and Sustainability Committees and has used his expertise to advise on ways Maple Knoll can reduce their carbon emissions, especially when it comes to new construction on campus. He has helped provide management with insight into new tax laws that provide incentives for sustainability projects, assisted architects and engineers to determine how new buildings can be carbon neutral, and has championed fundraising efforts for The Maple Knoll Communities’ Foundation sustainability projects.

His selfless disposition and generous heart continue to make a difference in the lives of every person he meets. His passion for sustainability is contagious and makes everyone around him excited for the future.

Learn more about this prestigious induction here: Ohio Department of Aging announces class for 2023 Ohio Senior Citizens Hall of Fame | Department of Aging

Active Adult Communities vs. Retirement Communities: Understanding the Difference

As individuals approach the age of retirement, they will often explore housing options that cater to their specific needs and lifestyle. Often used interchangeably, active adult communities and retirement communities present very different opportunities for older adults. Understanding the difference between these two living options for retirees will help you make an informed decision that fits your lifestyle.

Active Adult Communities

Active adult communities are designed for individuals that are seeking an independent lifestyle. These communities typically feature single-family homes, townhouses, or condominiums. Key features of active adult communities include:

Age-Restrictions

One defining characteristic of active adult communities is the 55+ age restriction. These communities aim to create an environment where residents can enjoy an active and social lifestyle amongst their peers. Age restrictions help ensure a sense of community and shared interests.

Lifestyle

Geared towards an independent lifestyle, these communities provide an environment where residents are encouraged to pursue their hobbies, remain active, and socialize. While some residents of active adult communities may still work, others will spend their time organizing clubs and excursions with their neighbors. These communities do not typically have dedicated staff onsite to organize outings and activities.

Services and Healthcare

Maintenance and landscaping services are commonly provided to residents in active adult communities allowing them the freedom to maintain their own home independently. Interior maintenance of the home such as housekeeping services are not usually provided and would have to be contracted out. Healthcare and support services may not be readily available in the direct vicinity of the community. Should a resident’s health needs change, they may have to consider relocating to an assisted living or skilled nursing community.

Retirement Communities

Retirement communities are designed to provide a supportive and inclusive environment by offering a range of living options and care levels. A variety services are provided to residents based on their changing needs and independence. Key features of retirement communities include:

Age Diversity

Continuing care retirement communities like Maple Knoll Village are designed to allow residents to age in place by providing all levels of care. This includes independent living, assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing. These different levels of care allow for a diverse range of resident ages and abilities.

Engaging Lifestyle

Retirement communities employ activity staff dedicated to creating engaging activities and excursions for residents. This fosters a sense of community and belonging by encouraging residents to socialize, connect, and participate in group activities. At Maple Knoll Village, each level of care has its own dedicated activity staff ensuring activities are personalized based on individual abilities. Our residents enjoy a variety of activities and excursions such as weekly happy hours, technology classes, cooking demonstrations, and scheduled trips to art performances, museums, and restaurants.

Focus on Services and Healthcare Support

Retirement communities ensure quality care and support is provided by offering on-site healthcare services or local healthcare partnerships. Services may include assistance with daily activities, medication management, wellness programs, access to medical professionals, and specialized memory care for individuals with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease.

The nursing staff at Maple Knoll Village provide quality and compassionate care for residents with the bonus of an on-site clinic staffed by highly accredited physicians. The availability of healthcare services within the Maple Knoll community ensures that the changing health needs of residents are addressed promptly and effectively.

Retirement communities also provide a wide range of services such as: dining, housekeeping, transportation, landscaping, and maintenance. Residents of Maple Knoll also enjoy many on-site amenities including: a fitness center and indoor pool, multiple dining venues, a hair salon, technology lab, gathering spaces, and an accredited arboretum.

Making the Choice

Choosing between an active adult community and a retirement community depends on your needs and desired lifestyle. Active adult communities are ideal for those who live independent and active lives without fear of the future. Retirement communities are ideal for those who desire a supportive and inclusive community with options for different levels of care as their needs evolve.

When considering your retirement living options, it’s important to carefully consider factors such as lifestyle, healthcare requirements, and long-term goals. Touring different communities, talking to current residents, and consulting with loved ones can help you make an informed decision that aligns with your vision of a fulfilling retirement. To schedule a tour of Maple Knoll Village, please visit www.mapleknoll.org or call 513-782-2717.

Common Financial Scams that Target Older Adults

According to the FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3), over 88,000 individuals ages 60 and up reported they were victims of an internet scam in 2022. This was a drastic 84% increase compared to 2021 reports, and monetary losses totaled over three billion dollars, the highest monetary loss compared to all other age groups.

As the number of financial scams targeting seniors continues to rise, it is important to educate yourself and your loved ones on common scams to protect yourself against them. Some of the most common financial scams that target older adults include sweepstakes scams, robocall scams, and impersonation scams.

Sweepstakes Scams

One of the most common types of financial scams, sweepstakes and lottery scams tend to follow a similar script. The scammer will call or email an older adult notifying them that they have won a prize of some sort. The catch is that the scammer will claim that to receive their winnings, the older adult must cover taxes or shipping fees by sending them gift cards or money up front. This can result in the older adult losing hundreds, if not thousands of dollars. Any type of request to send someone money to receive a prize should be considered a red flag. If you find yourself on the receiving end of what you suspect is a sweepstakes scam, hang up and consult with a trusted friend or loved one before complying.

Robocall Scams

With the development of modern technology, robocall scams have become increasingly sophisticated in recent years. Scammers can disguise the number they are calling from, making it seem that it is from a reputable organization. Some robocall scams will claim that your car payment did not go through, and immediate payment is required to prevent your car from being repossessed. Other robocall scams may claim they are from a law enforcement agency and request that you pay a fine otherwise you will be sued or arrested. If you ever receive one of these calls, it is important to contact local law enforcement to report the call and confirm if the information is true before taking any action.

Impersonation Scams

Scammers will often use a fake caller ID or email to pretend to be someone they are not such as your bank, utility company, or a government agency. They will use various high-pressure tactics to trick you into giving up information by playing on your emotions. They may claim that there has been fraud detected on your account or threaten you with legal action if you do not comply with their requests. While these tactics can certainly be scary, it is important to pause and evaluate the situation before reacting. If it seems abnormal for the company to contact you in this way or you were not expecting this type of phone call, do not give them any personal or financial information and hang up. If you think it might be a real phone call, it is still important to be cautious. Tell them you will call them back and hang up. Look up the customer service number for the company they are claiming to be from and give them a call to see if the request was legitimate.

Another type of impersonation scam that has become increasingly common is the “grandparent” scam. These phone calls can be especially scary as the scammer will call pretending to be the older adult’s child or grandchild. They may claim to be in trouble, in jail, or even kidnapped and will often demand you send them a gift card or money transfer. They may also demand that you keep this information private and request that you do not contact the authorities or your family about the situation. If you receive a phone call like this, it is only natural for you to feel scared and protective. However, it is extremely important to be careful and smart about how you respond. One way you can determine if it is actually your child or grandchild is by asking questions only, they would know the answer to. For example, if your child or grandchild does not have a brother named Ted, ask the caller if they have contacted their brother Ted. If they do not point out that they do not have a brother named Ted, you will know it is not your loved one. If you do fear that the phone call is real and your loved one is in danger, do not agree to send money and call the authorities immediately.

Scams can and do happen to anyone. They are designed to make us fall for them and can be incredibly sophisticated. Educating yourself and staying cautious are the best ways to protect yourself from scammers. Reputable organizations will never request gift cards as a method of payment, and you should never provide personal or financial phone via text or email.

Resources such as AARP, the National Council on Aging, and Ohio Department of Aging all provide great information and tools for protecting yourself against scams. If you feel you may have been the target of a scam, immediately report it to the Ohio Attorney General’s Office.

513.782.2717