spring 2013 senior guidebook
DESCRIPTION
Berks County's leading seniors magazine.TRANSCRIPT
SPRING 2013www.berksseniorguide.com
It’s Your Health, How About a Walk?
Pg 7
Pg 8
Pg 18
The Garden Box Pg 21
Responding to A Diagnosis of
Dementia
River Cruise Versus Ocean Cruise, Let me
Count the Ways
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FEATURES4 Senator Judy Schwank – Report to the People
7Responding to A Diagnosis of Dementia – Kelly O’Shea Carney, PhD, CMC
8 It’s Your Health, How About a Walk? –Michele E. Hatt-Ciemiewicz
10 Home Care Resource Guide
11 The Story of Griswold Home Care – Gary Hawkins
13 The Personal Care Home: 2012 – Anthony Camilli
14 Adult Day Care Resource 15 Resource Directory
18River Cruise Versus Ocean Cruise, Let me Count the Ways – Rick Kaplan
21 The Garden Box
22Tech Therpy – Computers and Our Finances – Stephanie Knarr
23 “Aunt Tilly’s Kitchen”
24Lifecare contracts remain a good option for many Seniors!
LAYTON BARNARDPublisher - Senior Guidebook
For a free subscription,please send your mailing
information and email address (if applicable) to
the address below:
PO Box 49Wernersville PA
19565-0049
OFFICE610.670.2918
FAX610.927.0422
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Copyright 2013 Barnard Publishing, LLC. All rights reserved.
Senior Guidebook to Southeast Pennsylvania Housing & Resources is published quarterly by Barnard Publishing, LLC. The opinions, advice or statements expressed by contributing writers don’t reflect those of the editor, the publisher or of Senior Guidebook to Southeast Pennsylvania Housing & Resources. No part of this magazine may be reproducedwithout prior consent of the publisher. It is your responsibility to evaluate the accuracy, completeness or usefulness of any information, opinion, advice or other content contained herein. Furthermore, Barnard Publishing, LLC makes no representations and, to the fullest extent allowed by law, disclaims all warranties, expressed or implied, including but not limited to, warranties of merchantability and fitness for particular purposes regarding the suitability of the information; the accuracy, reliability, completeness or timeliness of the content, services or products advertised herein. The content published herein may include inaccuracies or typographical errors.
SPRING 2013
Photography by: Jennifer Borror
Berks County610-478-6500
www.berksaging.org Chester County
610-344-6350www.chesco.org/aging
Lancaster County717-299-7979
www.co.lancaster.pa.us/lanco_agingLebanon County
717-273-9262Lehigh County610-782-3200
www.lehighcounty.org (Select Human Services)
Montgomery County610-278-3601
www.montcopa.org/mcaas/
OFFICES OF AGING
STATE & COUNTY RESOURCES
Southeast Pennsylvania
OTHER SENIOR RESOURCES
AAA Reading-Berks800-373-4339
www.aaardgberks.com AARP PA State Office
717-238-2277 • www.aarp.orgBureau of Consumer Protection
717-787-9707National Council on the Aging
www.ncoa.orgPACENET Prescription Programs
800-225-PACE PA Department of Aging
717-783-1550PANPHA
www.panpha.orgSilver Sneakers Fitness Program
www.silversneakers.com
Local Resources& Websites
Pennsylvaniawww.state.pa.us
Berks Countywww.co.berks.pa.us
Berks Encorewww.BerksEncorePa.org
Chester Countywww.chesco.orgLancaster County
www.co.lancaster.pa.usLebanon County
www.pacounties.org/LebanonLehigh County
www.lehighcounty.orgMontgomery Countywww.montcopa.orgPA Senior Centers
www.paseniorcenters.orgPA State Senior Games
www.keystonegames.com
Front Cover Phoebe Ministries – Wernersville
Back Cover The Highlands at Wyomissing – Wyomissing
Inside Front Cover StoneRidge Retirement Living – Myerstown
Inside Back Cover The Lutheran Home at Topton – Topton
1Phoebe Ministries – WernersvilleThe Highlands at Wyomissing – Wyomissing
6 The Heritage of Green Hills – Shillington
11 Griswold Special Care – Wyomissing
12Hearthstone at Amity/Hearthstone at Maidencreek
19 Phoebe Ministries – Wernersville
20 Alzheimer’s Association
23Keystone Villa – Douglassville/FleetwoodMifflin Court Senior Living Community - Shillington
ADVERTISERS
Berks
Lancaster
Lebanon
Lehigh
ChesterMontgomery
Reading
Topton
Lebanon
Hershey
Allentown
Pottstown
West ChesterHoney BrookGlenmoore
Lititz
Lancaster
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Now that the winter of 2013 is behind us it is time to get outside and enjoy the warmer temperatures. It is time to enjoy the fresh air, the budding beauty of Mother Nature’s rebirth and the many recreational activities that are available.
SPRING IS IN THE AIR: TIME TO ENJOY THE GREAT OUTDOORS
State Senator Judith L. Schwank • 11th Senatorial District
Report To The People
How about a little fishing?
While “Penns Woods” may have initially been named for its trees and forests, Pennsylvania is also blessed with more than 85,000 miles of streams and rivers, along with 4,000 inland lakes and ponds, including treasures like Antietam Lake, Blue Marsh Lake, Ontelaunee Lake, Tulpehocken Creek and others, right here in Berks County.
As the experienced angler already knows this all adds up to some great fishing – a terrific outdoor recreational activity and great American pastime.
For Pennsylvania seniors 65 and older, discounted 2013 fishing licenses are available for $11.70 about half the cost of the regular resident fishing license of $22.70. Also, Pennsylvania seniors can avoid any future annual cost by purchasing a “lifetime” fishing license for the price of $51.70 in the year they turn 65 or any year thereafter. Fishing licenses, including senior and senior lifetime licenses, can be purchased at many area sporting goods stores and other retail outlets.
Trout Season Opens in Berks County on Saturday, March 30
With the opening of the 2013 trout season in Berks County and other counties in the southeast region, the additionally required Trout/Salmon Permit can be purchased at the same time and location as the purchase of the regular fishing license. The good news for eligible seniors who purchase the senior lifetime license is that if they purchase the lifetime license and the extra Trout/Salmon Permit at the same time, they will never have to purchase either again.
Once again this year, in advance of trout season’s opening day, the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission has been out conducting one of the most extensive trout stocking operations of any state in the nation. For a complete listing of the trout stock locations in Berks County, please contact my Reading district office at 610-929-2151 and a member of my staff will be happy to send you the list. In the meantime, happy fishing and enjoy the wonderful outdoor beauty of spring. And, as always, if I can be of assistance with any state related issue, please don’t hesitate to contact me.
5Southeast Pennsylvania
Your Ultimate Resource... Senior Guidebook to Berks County
Providing seniors, baby boomers, and their families a complete resource for their housing, home care and aging needs.
• Complete Facility Directory
• Online Calendar of Events
• Local Resources
www.berksseniorguide.com
66
Responding to a Diagnosis of Dementia
I
7Southeast Pennsylvania
In 2011, new guidelines for the diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease were released to the public. These guidelines, created by 3 expert work groups convened by the National Institute of Health and the Alzheimer’s Association, represent the most up to date research and theory about Alzheimer’s disease. The most notable change in the guidelines for diagnosing Alzheimer’s disease is the emphasis on early identification of the disease. Years ago, there was little a physician could do to identify the presence of Alzheimer’s disease until the symptoms were advanced. Now, the research tells us that subtle changes in thinking, memory and function can signal the start of a progressive dementia, and the new guidelines offer guidance to physicians on identifying and addressing those subtle changes. If properly utilized, these guidelines could help physicians to identify Alzheimer’s disease much earlier in its progression, providing the individuals affected by the disease with an opportunity to respond to the diagnosis and plan for the future.
No one wants to receive a diagnosis of dementia. So what is a person to do when he or she is diagnosed? Certainly Alzheimer’s disease is a frightening diagnosis for anyone, but there are positive steps that can be taken to improve the outcomes for an individual and their loved ones. While the treatments for dementia are still fairly limited, there are medications available that help to slow the progression of the symptoms. Moreover, there is evidence that engaging in a healthy lifestyle, including regular social and intellectual activity to stimulate the mind, may also help to maintain function for a period of time.
In addition, a person diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease or another dementia should always use the advance notice to prepare for the changes that lie ahead. For example, it is important to make certain that legal documents, financial planning, and directives for medical care are all in order before the ability to make decisions changes. Equally important, early diagnosis also provides families with an opportunity to discuss future plans to care for the individual while that individual can still clearly voice their preferences.
At Phoebe Ministries, we understand how frightening a diagnosis of dementia can be for the individual and their family and we offer a range of services to assist in responding to the diagnosis. Our geriatric care managers are available to meet with the patient and their family to discuss care options in the home or within our communities. For those living at home, the geriatric care manager can provide the family with guidance and support over the course of the illness, ensuring that in-home services change as the needs of the individual change. At Phoebe Berks, we offer living situations that range from independent apartments to specialized memory support care at the personal care or skilled nursing care level, adjusting the level of care to the emerging needs of the individual. We also offer individualized education about dementia through our Dementia Education at Home program, designed to teach family members about the disease process. In addition, Phoebe Berks offers support groups for family caregivers and community education sessions about brain health and dementia. We provide an adult day center, Tranquility Place, to allow family members and caregivers the time to pursue a career, participate in hobbies and personal activities, or simply enjoy well-earned respite time.
Phoebe is committed to supporting individuals with dementia and their families. From supporting brain health in those unaffected by dementia, to coping with a new diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease, through providing care to a person with advancing dementia, Phoebe has created a continuum of services designed to ensure excellence in dementia care.
Learn more about Phoebe Berks by visiting phoebe.org/berks.
By Kelly O’Shea Carney, PhD, CMCExecutive Director, the Phoebe Center for Excellence in Dementia Care
Responding to a Diagnosis of Dementia
Photography by: Jennifer Borror
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88
We have all heard the same old adage, “Walking is good for your health,” and yet many of us refuse to listen to, or remember, that advice. Too often we go in search of fitness, the modern-day fountain of youth, by means of expensive equipment, clubs, or surgery. For some reason our mind deceives us into believing that more money we spend on fitness, the better our results; and fitness gurus have been espousing, “No pain, no gain” for years. So we follow their advice and forget about the simplest and most efficient form of exercise: walking.
Other than a decent pair of sneakers, walking requires no money; and the benefits are good for the mind, body, and soul. Strolling out in the fresh air, helps clear our head and lungs from all of the stale, recycled air we breathe indoors, on a regular basis. That clean air affords us restorative benefits which helps alleviate stress and reduce depression.
But more important than the psychological advantages are the physical benefits. Walking just 30 minutes a day helps the human body reduce weight and improves heart and lung function. All physical activity helps to increase blood circulation which takes more oxygen and nutrients to the body’s organs. According to WebMD, exercise “increases the lungs’ ability to take in oxygen, lowers blood pressure, helps to reduce body fat, and improves blood sugar and cholesterol levels.” So it is time to get up and move.
Surly most of us can find time for 30 minutes of walking a day, but even if that does not fit into your schedule, minimal benefits can even be gained by walking as little as 15 minutes a day. Who doesn’t have at least 15 minutes to walk? And chances are once you get out and
begin moving, you will end up walking for longer than 15 minutes. However, Brian Njau, Master Trainer at LA Fitness, Wyomissing points out that distance is more important to fitness than time, and he adds that people who have not walked for awhile should begin slowly and then increase the distance as one’s fitness levels improve. For example, someone just beginning a walking routine should begin with a distance that is not too taxing but is challenging to accomplish. Reaching the first milestone will provide the walker with a sense of accomplishment and provide motivation for future walks.
Brian Njau also offers additional suggestions for older individuals to shape up. They can begin with simple stretching exercises at least two times a day; the best idea is to develop an AM and PM routine. A simple chair stretch is a great beginning
exercise. For this activity, the individual sits in a chair and then stands back up. This should be repeated 12-15 times per set, and it is best to complete three sets. Over time, the weight can be added. This weight can be a 5 lb. dumbbell or even a gallon of water. With this exercise, the individual stands up, lifts the weight overhead, and then as he sits back down the weight is brought back to the chest. As one’s fitness level increases, more weights and different exercises can be added. Brian emphasizes, “Older people don’t need a lot of weight. They just need toning to prevent atrophy of muscles and retain strength. The toning will help strengthen the immune system, speed up metabolism, and increase energy levels. Toning and simple strength training can also be easily added to a walking routine.
By adding some simple gear, the intensity of one’s walk can easily be improved, thus increasing the benefits. Two of the easiest pieces of equipment to add to one’s regime are poles and a weighted vest. Walking poles look like cross-country ski poles and are used to help the walker engage movement and conditioning in the upper-body, thus providing a full-body workout. According to Edward R. Laskowski, M.D., Mayo Clinic physical medicine and rehabilitation specialist, the trek poles help the walker engage his entire body during the hike which helps to increase caloric burn, aids in balance and stability, improves walking posture, and helps alleviate pressure on the spine during activity. Another method of increasing caloric burn is by adding a weighted vest. These vests are designed with a multitude of pockets for weights which causes the walker to increase his over-all body weight for the duration of the exercise, and thus burn more calories and gain the benefits of a more intense workout. The pockets and individual weights allow the walker to adjust and increase his/her weight as his fitness levels improves. Both the poles and vests require a little adjustment time and should be used first on local walks or tracks before going on longer treks. Readers can find these items online or at local retail stores that sell sporting equipment.
In addition to the mind-body benefits, walking nourishes the soul. Hiking affords the individual with the opportunity to commune with nature and explore his/her surroundings on a more personal and intimate level. As we stroll our community and hike though our neighborhood parks, we become much more in-tune with our surroundings and see things that we miss when we speed by in a car. It is all too easy to overlook the early bloom of a spring flower, drown out the first chip by a newly hatched bird, and miss the aroma of a new spring day. However, walking gives all of that and much more, and I cannot think of a more beautiful place to explore than the regions that we take for granted every day. Berks County has a myriad of parks and hiking trails that beckon to be explored, and Berks County has two local organizations that can help you reap all of the health benefits of walking and commune with nature at the same time.
Did you know that Berks County has its own hiking club? The Berks Community Hiking Club is a great format for meeting new people, exploring different hiking venues, and getting in some much needed walking. For more information on the Berks Community Hiking Club, you can visit their home page at http://berkshiker.blogspot.com
It’s Your Health, How About a Walk?By Michele E. Hatt-Ciemiewicz
9Southeast Pennsylvania
Also the Berks County Conservancy and Berks County has established the Greater Reading Trails partnership. Currently, they are in the process of developing and enhancing the following local trails:
• Angelica Creek Trail • Earl Poole Sanctuary • Gravity Trail • Neversink MountainFor more information about the organization, trails
and maps, please visit their website at www.greaterreadingtrails.com.
If you are not interested in joining an organization, you can grab your friends and explore Berks County and all of the beauty that she has to offer on your own. Below is a brief list and description of just some of the great walking/hiking trails in Berks County to help get you started.
Blue Marsh Lake Trails – One trailhead is located at 1268 Pallisades Drive, Leesport, PA 19533-9750. This trail has a mixture of surfaces from hard, difficult terrain to flat grassy surfaces, so be prepared to exert some energy on this trek. From this trailhead, you can head east toward the city for a 6 mile hike.
Gring’s Mill – Park entrance and trailhead are located at 2083 Tulpehocken Rd., Wyomissing PA 19610. After you enter the park and cross the bridge to the trails, you have two options. You can turn right and walk 1.2 miles to Stonecliff Park, or you can turn left and walk 3miles to Reber’s Bridge. If you are feeling really energetic, you can cross Reber’s Bridge Road and continue on another 1.8 miles to Stilling Basin Road. The trek from Gring’s Mill to both Stonecliff Park and Reber’s bridge is relatively flat; however, if you travel on to Stilling Basin Road, be prepared to navigate some hills and put forth more effort. Joe Allen, Wyomissing Area High School Track Coach states, “While I mostly enjoy running, while my knees still hold out, I find a nice, relaxing atmosphere at Gring's Mill. The area is pretty flat, with a lot of calm, natural beauty to surround you every season of the year. It can also be inspirational or help you to get your mind off of something.”
Monocacy Hill - Park entrance, trailhead, and maps are located at the entrance on Geiger Road in Amity Township, Douglassville, PA. This park is a forest spanning over 400 acres and has over 5 miles of forest trails. More information can be found at http://monocacyhill.org. This website also provides a map with directions to get to the park which is helpful since there is no street address to put into the GPS.
Nolde Forest – Trailhead is located off the Saw Mill parking lot on Rout 625. This hike is about 5 miles in length. The dirt terrain is easy to navigate; however, the hike is hilly. Be prepared to exert some energy and bring a walking buddy. This is a beautiful trail especially in the fall when the autumnal colors cover the landscape.
The Pinnacle – The trailhead is located by driving from Hamburg and taking Old Rt 22 to Reservoir Road. You can park at the gate for the Reservoir. On this trail, you are hiking a portion of the Appalachian Trail, and the round-trip is an 8 ½ mile trek. It is a challenging hike to Pulpit Rock and the Pinnacle, but the views are well worth the effort. Bring lots of water and a snack.
Thun Trail – One trailhead is located near Brentwood parking lot on Rout 10 (Morgantown Road). The walk from this location to Gibraltar near Rout 724 is 5 miles. Parts of this can be a bit desolate, so take a walking buddy or two for this trek. There are several trailheads for this trail.
Wyomissing Park - Entrance and parking are located at 306 Museum Road, Reading, PA 19611. This is a lovely paved road; feel free to walk, run, or bike it alone. To extend your distance, continue your workout over to the Stone House Park directly across Old Mill Road and even continue through over to the trail on the grounds of the Reading Museum. Colleen Vargo of Wyomissing states, "I love taking my kids for a walk on the Wyomissing trail. They can ride their bikes, run, and explore the woods and the river, all for free! It also has great cross country trails to run on."
Editors Note: Before beginning any exercise program be sure to check with your physician first.Works Cited
Allen, Joe. “Gring’s Mill Park.” Personal Interview. 25 February 2013.“Heart Disease: Walking For A Healthy Heart.” WebMD. MERCK. 2013. Web. 1 Feb. 2013.
Laskowski, Edward R. “Walking poles: Good for brisk walking?” Mayo Clinic Online. 15 March 2012. Web. 1 Feb. 2013.Njau, Brian. “Easing into Fitness.” Personal Interview. 25 February 2013.
Vargo, Colleen. “Wyomissing Park.” Personal Interview. 25 February 2013.
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What is Home Health Care?Home health care is a wide range of health care services that can be given in your home. Home health care is usually less expensive, more convenient, and just as effective as care you get in a hospital or skilled nursing facility. The goal of home health care is to treat an illness or injury. Home health care helps you get better, regain your independence, and become as self-sufficient as possible.
In general, home health care includes part-time or intermittent skilled nursing care, and other skilled care services like physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech-language pathology (therapy) services. Services may also include medical social services or assistance from a home health aide. Usually, a home health care agency coordinates the services your doctor orders for you.
• Wound care for pressure sores or a surgical wound• Physical and occupational therapy• Speech-language therapy• Patient and caregiver education• Intravenous or nutrition therapy• Injections• Monitoring serious illness and unstable health status
• Help with basic daily activities like getting in and out of bed, dressing, bathing, eating, and using the bathroom
• Help with light housekeeping, laundry, shopping, and cooking for the patient
NOTE: In order to cover home health care, Medicare and other health insurance plans have certain requirements. For example, Medicare requires you to be “ homebound. ” Read more about how Medicare covers home health care, or call your plan for more information.
If your doctor or referring health care provider decides you need home health care, they should give you a list of agencies that serve your area. If they suggest an agency or give you a list, they must tell you whether their organization has a financial interest in that agency.Use Home Health Compare to find out more about each agency and talk to your doctor or other health care provider about the information you find here. Keep these things in mind:
• There are differences in how home health agencies operate and the services they provide. Look closely at each agency and the services they offer, discuss your options with your doctor or other health care provider, and choose the agency that best meets your needs. Your choice should be honored by your doctor, hospital discharge planner, or other referring agency.
• Your choices may be limited by agency availability, or by your insurance coverage. Medicare Advantage Plans, Medicare health plans, or other health insurance plans may require that you get home health services from agencies they contract with. Call your plan for more information.
Once your doctor refers you for home health services, the home health agency will schedule an appointment and come to your home to talk to you about your needs and ask you some questions about your health. The home health agency staff will also talk to your doctor about your care and keep your doctor updated about your progress. Doctor’s orders are needed to start care. It is important that home health staff see you as often as the doctor ordered.Here are some examples of what the home health staff should do:
• Check what you are eating and drinking. • Check your blood pressure, temperature, heart rate, and breathing. • Check that you are taking your prescription and other drugs and any
treatments correctly. • Ask if you’re having pain. • Check your safety in the home. • Teach you about your care so you can take care of yourself. • Coordinate your care. This means they must communicate regularly with
you, your doctor, and anyone else who provides care to you.
As a patient of a Medicare-approved home health agency, you have several rights and the home health agency must provide you with a written copy of them. They include rights such as the following:
• The right to choose your home health agency. (For members of managed care plans, the choices will depend upon which home health agencies your plan works with.)
• The right to have your property treated with respect • The right to be given a copy of your plan of care, and participate in
decisions about your care • The right to have your family or guardian act for you if you are unable • The right to make complaints to the agency or the State Survey Agency
about your treatment, care that’s not provided, or staff shows disrespect for you or your property
For more information go to www.medicare.gov, and select Home Health Compare.
Examples of skilled home health services include:
Examples of home health aide services include:
Getting Started
Home Health Patient RightsWhat to Expect
Home Care Agency Contact Number
American Red Cross 3 610-861-5105Assured Assistance 3 3 3 3 610-796-4737
Bayada Nurses 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 610-406-9000Chestnut Knoll 3 3 3 3 610-473-3328
Comfort Keepers 3 3 3 3 3 610-678-8000Griswold Special Care 3 3 3 3 3 610-372-9940
Home Instead Senior Care 3 3 3 610-372-2500Maxim Healthcare Services 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 610-678-1594
PatientCare 3 3 3 610-373-0300Senior Helpers 3 3 3 3 610-323-0460
The Birches at Home 3 3 3 267-933-6800United Disabilities Services 3 3 3 888-837-4235
Visiting Angels 3 3 3 610-898-7880
Home Care Directory
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11Southeast Pennsylvania
ISigns Your Loved One Should Not Live Alone
It is very difficult to watch a loved one lose the ability to care for him or herself, especially if this loved one is a parent or someone who has cared for you most of your life. But keep in mind that, with age, a decline in independence is natural, and neither you nor your loved one should be ashamed.
Does your loved one need hands-on, day-to-day assistance that you alone cannot provide? We at Griswold have come up with a list of nine warning signs that will help you answer this crucial question.
1. Cluttered house Is your loved one’s home becoming increasingly cluttered with unopened mail, dirty dishes and items that he or she usually keeps in check? A decline in order around the house is a sign that your loved one is feeling overwhelmed with daily chores.
2. Issues with money If your loved one is having issues paying bills or keeping up with his or her checking account, it could mean that he or she is not thinking clearly.
3. Loss of weight If he or she is becoming significantly frail and weak, it could be an indicator that your loved one no longer has the confidence or ability to shop for food or prepare meals.
4. Confusion in the kitchen The kitchen is a key place for signs of confusion and unclear thinking. Watch for piles of dirty dishes or food left out, items put away in strange or improper places, pots burned on the bottom from letting water boil dry.
5. Clothing and hygiene Is your loved one wearing the same outfit over and over? Is he or she showing signs of poor hygiene? Inappropriate clothing -- wearing unseasonable outfits, going to public places barefoot or forgetting important articles of clothing altogether.
6. Forgetfulness Pay attention to a pattern of missed appointments, forgetting to take medication or not attending usual activities (like church or social club/group meetings). Besides memory loss, these things could also be signs of a severe decline in your loved one’s motor skills or confidence in his or her abilities.
7. Strange behavior Everyone has his or hers idiosyncrasies, but if you notice abnormal behavior, it could mean your loved one needs help. Keep an eye out for paranoia and unusual nervousness/fears, odd or inappropriate comments, or any behavior that seems inconsistent with your loved one’s personality.
8. Depression If your loved one is aware of his or her declining independence, he or she is likely to show signs of frustration or sadness. In-home assistance could significantly raise your loved one’s spirits and even provide some uplifting social interaction.
9. Your own instinct Perhaps the greatest telltale sign that your loved one should not be living alone is your own gut feeling. Do you feel guilty or uneasy when you leave him or her at home alone? Would you feel much more at ease if you knew someone with professional experience would be there when you can’t be? Listen to your instinct.
You alone may not be able to provide your loved one with the extent of care that he or she needs, but you can make the decision that your loved one deserves this assistance. Not only will in-home assistance help restore your loved one’s quality of life, but it will also bring peace of mind for you and your family.
Gary R. Hawkins, C.S.A.Executive Director
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13Southeast Pennsylvania
When children tour a personal care community, the phrase “mom’s not ready yet” or “dad’s not ready
yet” is a comment we often hear. More times than not the need is already present to some lesser or greater degree or the children probably wouldn’t be touring a personal care community.
The stories shared with us are many; sometimes mom or dad forget their medications or self administers the medications incorrectly; sometimes not answering the phone and the children worry why the phone goes unanswered; a close call in the shower or tub; sometimes forgetting to eat a meal, the stories are all different but all share the same theme. Mom or dad requires more monitoring both night and day, and that includes weekends and busy holidays.
These 24/7 non-stop worries can and oftentimes does wear down a family member. Children, especially working children, have their own lives and schedules to occupy their time, and worrying about a loved one adds to an already long day. Children or other loved ones are caught in an emotional rollercoaster, knowing what is in fact best for their loved one yet uncomfortable broaching the subject of change with their loved one. Nobody wants to give up their home, their car, and their way of doing things. What is misunderstood is that when you move into a personal care community you are not losing all your independence. A personal care community resident has many state mandated regulations guaranteeing residents “rights regarding decision making and lifestyle choices”. A resident is given many choices, among them their personal preferences regarding social activities, meal selections, worship, excursions, etc.
Residents can own and operate their own automobiles, invite their friends to join them for meals, have a private party or dinner in private dining rooms, share activities with them, or just visit with them. Many residents who have been living in a personal care community for a while often share their experiences with newer residents. This bonding and building of new friendships often reassures new residents that they and/or their family made the right choice.
Personal Care: “Mom’s not ready yet”…
Newer residents usually take 2 to 3 weeks to feel “at home”. Experienced caregivers realize that this transition period is a very sensitive time and they always go above and beyond to make the new residents feel comfortable, making sure the new resident realizes that a personal care community is essentially “an apartment building with helpers”. To further ease the transition families are encouraged to bring in personal items: wall art, paintings or pictures, and especially furniture, this adds to the residents feeling that they are with “their” own things that represent their own memories.
Talking to family’s weeks or months after a move-in, the families usually tell us “mom was ready, maybe we weren’t”. Mom feels better now because she is not alone, she has made new friends, and has not given up as many things as she once feared. The children feel much better knowing that mom is not alone, that she is safe and getting her proper medications in the proper dosages and times.
People considering placing a loved one in a personal care community are in for a learning curve. Its best to take it slow, tour at least 3 or 4 personal care communities at different times throughout the day and weekend. Most communities have “marketing” people who are qualified to answer most of your questions. Touring on a weekend or after 5pm offers you the opportunity to casually talk to staff, the real hands-on caregivers. Talk to residents, and talk to the resident’s families who are more likely to be visiting after 5pm or on weekends. You will get a “feel” for the community, go with your instincts. You will find on reflection that placing a loved one into a quality personal care community was the right thing to do for mom or dad. Their quality of life will have improved as well as for you and your family too.
Photography by: Jennifer Borror
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Adult Daycare Resource Directory
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EldergardenLebanon PAPh. 717-274-3821Palmyr PAPh. 717-832-3854
Spang Crest ManorAdult Day ServicesLebanon PAPh. 717-272-1495
Concepts of Lehigh ValleyBethlehem PAPh. 610-866-7600
Lifepath, Older AdultDaily Living CenterBethlehem PAPh. 610-814-3141
Sarah Care Adult Day ServicesHrs: M-F 6:30 AM-6:00 PMSat. 8:00 AM-3:00 PMAllentown PAPh. 610-391-1576
Westminster VillageAllentown PAPh. 610-782-8390
Adult Day ServicesLansdale PAPh. 215-855-8296
Souderton PAPh. 215-703-0523
Advance Lane Training &Employment CorporationHrs: 8:30 AM-5:00 PMColmar PAPh. 215-822-6417
Applied Skills IndustriesHuntingdon Valley PAPh. 215-938-7767
Beelong Adult Day ServicesHatboro PAPh. 215-675-0103
Bon Homie Older AdultDaily Living CenterHrs: 7:00 AM-5:30 PMLimerick PAPh. 610-792-8820
Center Point Training CenterWorcester PAPh. 610-584-0550
Evergreen Adult Day ProgramWyndmoor PAPh. 215-233-6309
Frederick Mennonite Community Adult Day CareHrs: M-F 7:00 AM-5:30 PMFrederick, PAPh: 610-754-7878
Helen L. Weiss Senior Day ProgramNorth Wales PAPh. 215-371-2121
Helping HandsBechtelsville PAPh. 610-754-6491
Main Line Adult Day CenterBryn Mawr PAPh. 610-527-4220
Manatawny ManorAdult Day ServicesHrs: 7:00 AM-5:30 PMPottstown PA Ph. 610-705-3749
Montgomery AdultDaily Living CenterLansdale PAPh. 215-855-7997
Senior Adult Activities Center of Montgomery CountyNorristown PAPh. 610-275-1960
Senior Care of Blue BellBlue Bell PAPh. 610-828-4144
Senior Care of GibraltarHorsham PAPh. 215-443-5300
Adult Day Servicesat Garden Spot VillageHrs: 7:30 AM-5:30 PMNew Holland PAPh. 717-355-6226
Ephrata AreaRehabilitation ServicesEphrata PAPh. 717-733-0710
Lancaster GenerationsLancaster PAPh. 717-656-8783
Lancaster Regional Medical CenterLancaster PAPh. 717-295-8211
Landis Homes Adult Day ServicesLititz PAPh. 717-581-3920
Masonic VillageAdult Daily Living CenterElizabethtown PAPh. 717-361-5353
PAI Adult Day ServicesLancaster PAPh. 717-519-6740
Spanish AmericanCivic AssociationLancaster PAPh. 717-397-6267
The Senior Center Adult Daily CareM-F 7:30 AM-5:30 PMGap PAPh. 717-442-2496
Sarah Care of Great ValleyM-F 7:00 AM-6:00 PMMalvern PAPh. 610-251-0801
Ageless HarmonyAdult Senior Day CareHrs: 7:30 AM-5:00 PMLaureldale PA Ph. 610-929-1197Mt. Penn PA 610-898-0712 Sinking Spring PA Ph. 610-685-2382
Down on the Farm Adult DaycareHrs: 7:00 AM-5:30 PMDouglassville PA Ph. 610-385-6175
Fox Hunt MeadowSenior Day Respite FarmHrs: 8:00 AM-8:00 PMBirdsboro PA Ph. 610-582-9887
Phoebe BerksTranquility PlaceHrs: 7:00 AM-5:30 PM / M-FWernersville PA Ph. 610-927-8940
Prospectus Senior Day ServicesHrs: 7:30 AM-5:30 PMReading PAPh. 610-372-4637
St. Joseph Adult Day ServicesHrs: 7:30 AM-5:30 PMReading PAPh. 610-378-2267
Woodhaven Day Care for AdultsHrs: 7:30 AM-5:30 PM2405 New Holland RoadShillington, PA 19607Ph. 610-777-4579
Adult Care of Chester CountyHrs: 6:30 AM-6:30 PMExton PA Ph. 610-363-8044Kennett Square PAPh. 610-444-4413
Lynch Homes Adult Day CareMalvern PA Ph. 610-647-4309
Tel Hai Adult Day CareHrs: 6:00 AM-7:00 PMHoney Brook PA Ph. 610-273-9333
BERKS
LANCASTER
CHESTER
LEBANON
LEHIGH
MONTGOMERY
MONTGOMERY
15Southeast Pennsylvania
Keystone Villa at FleetwoodIND, PC • 484-637-8200501 Hoch Rd.Blandon, PA 19510www.keystonevilla.com
Kutztown ManorN • 610-683-6220Kutztown PA
Laurel Personal Care HomeN, PC • 610-562-2284Hamburg PA
Liberty SquarePC • 610-589-1679Stouchsburg PA
The Lutheran Home at ToptonCCRC, A/D • 800-322-9597 Topton PA
The Manor At Market SquareIND, PC • 610-373-0800Reading PA
Manor Care Health ServicesN, A/D • 610-374-5166West Reading PA
Manor Care Health ServicesN, A/D • 610-921-9292Laureldale PA
Manor Care Health ServicesN, A/D • 610-670-2100Sinking Spring PA
Manorcare PottstownN • 610-323-1837Pottstown PA
Mifflin CenterN • 610-777-7841Shillington PA
Mifflin CourtPC • 610-796-1600450 E. Philadelphia Ave. 19607 Shillington PAwww.genesishcc.com
Miller Personal Care HomePC • 610-374-9203Reading PA
Berkshire CommonsPC, A/D • 610-779-3993Reading PA
Berkshire CenterN • 610-779-0600Reading PA
Berkshire ManorN • 610-779-0600Reading, PA
Berks HeimN • 610-376-4841Leesport PA
Berks Leisure LivingPC • 610-916-8833Leesport PA
Bernet Golden Age Guest HomePC • 610-689-5360Birdsboro PA
Beverly Healthcare ReadingN • 610-779-8522Exeter PA
Buehrle Assisted LivingPC, A/D • 610-682-1360Topton PA
Chestnut KnollPC, A/D • 610-473-8066Boyertown PA
Colonial Manor Adult HomePC • 610-385-6175Douglassville PA
Columbia CottagePC • 610-927-0310Wyomissing PA
Country Meadows of WyomissingIND, PC, A/D • 610-374-3122Wyomissing, PA
Danken HousePC • 610-678-9282Wernersville PA
Elmcroft of ReadingPC • 610-370-2211Reading PA
Phoebe Berks Health Care CenterN, RHB • 610-678-40021 Heidelberg DriveWernersville PA 19565www.phoebe.org
Phoebe Berks VillageCCRC • 610-927-85501 Reading DriveWernersville PA 19565www.phoebe.org
Phoebe Berks Village CommonsPC • 610-927-8512 1 Reading DriveWernersville PA 19565www.phoebe.org
Providence HouseIND • 610-376-7787Reading PA
Rittenhouse Senior Livingof ReadingPC • 610-208-8890Reading PA
Sacred Heart VillaPC • 610-929-5751Reading PA
Spruce ManorN, A/D, RHB • 610-374-5175West Reading PA
Stabon Manor Personal Care HomePC • 610-373-2272Reading PA
Twin Spruce of MyerstownIND • 717-866-2938Myerstown PA
The Villa St. ElizabethPC • 610-478-1201Reading PA
Walnut Woods of BoyertownIND • 610-367-6616Boyertown PA
Wyomissing Nursing &Rehabilitation CenterN • 610-376-3991Wyomissing PA
Evans Retirement CenterPC • 610-944-7257Fleetwood PA
Golden Living Center of ReadingN • 610-779-8522Reading PA
Golden Ridge at Furnace KnollPC • 610-693-5850Robesonia PA
Grand View ManorPC• 610-944-1800Fleetwood PA
Green Hills ManorPC • 610-775-1451 10 Tranquility LaneReading PA 19607
Harmony Hill Assisted LivingPC • 610-589-5415Womelsdorf PA
The HawthornePC • 610-375-9696Reading PA
Hearthstone at AmityPC • 610-385-7600139 Old Swede RoadDouglassville PA 19518www.hearthstonehealthgroup.com
Hearthstone at MaidencreekPC • 610-926-7600105 Dries RoadReading PA 19605www.hearthstonehealthgroup.com
The Heritage of Green HillsCCRC • 484-269-5100200 Tranquility LaneReading PA 19607ww.heritageofgreenhills.com
The Highlands at WyomissingCCRC, A/D • 610-775-23002000 Cambridge AvenueWyomissing PA 19610www.TheHighlands.comKeystone Villa at DouglassvilleIND, PC, A/D • 610-385-50021152A Ben Franklin Highway EastDouglassvilla, PA 19518www.keystonevilla.com
Directory of Residential Facilities inBERKS, CHESTER, LANCASTER, LEBANON, LEHIGH & MONTGOMERY COUNTIES
Properties in boldface are advertisers in The Senior GuidebookLists provided and updated by PA Dept of Health, PA Dept of Insurance, and the County Offices of Aging
Email changes/additions to: [email protected]
AA - Active Adult IND - Independent Living PC – Personal Care/Assisted Living N - Skilled Nursing
RHB – Rehabilitation A/D - Alzeimer’s & Dementia Care CCRC – Continuing Care Retirement Community (Assisted Living/Skilled Nursing/Independent Living)
BERKS
16
Lancashire TerraceRetirement VillageIND • 717-569-3215Lancaster PA
Landis HomesRetirement CommunityCCRC, A/D • 717-569-3271Lititz PA
Laurel View Memory SupportAssisted LivingA/D • 717-355-6000New Holland PA
The Long CommunityPC • 717-381-4900Lancaster PA
The Long HomePC • 717-397-3926Lancaster PA
Longwood ManorPC • 717-426-0033Maytown PA
Luther AcresCCRC • 717-626-6884Lititz PA
Magnolias of LancasterA/D • 717-560-1100Lancaster PA
ManorCare Health ServicesPC, N • 717-367-1377Elizabethtown PA
ManorCare Health ServicesN • 717-397-4261Lancaster PA
Maple Farms Nursing CenterN • 717-859-1191Akron PA
Masonic Village at ElizabethtownCCRC • 717-367-1121Elizabethtown PA
Meadow RidgePC/AL • 717-490-8100Lancaster PA
Mennonite HomeCCRC, A/D • 717-393-1301Lancaster PA
Moravian ManorCCRC • 717-626-0214Lititz PA
Mountain View Assisted LivingPC • 717-355-6000New Holland PA
Moyer Personal Care HomePC • 717-721-6194Ephrata PA
Mt. Hope Nazarene Retirement CommunityN • 717-665-6365Manheim PA
The Muhlenberg LodgePC • 717-627-2335Lititz PA
Oak Leaf ManorPC • 717-872-9100Millersville PA
Oak Leaf Manor NorthPC, A/D • 717-898-4663Landisville PA
Personal Touch Assisted LivingPC • 717-733-3880Ephrata PA
Pleasant ViewRetirement CommunityCCRC • 717-665-2445Manheim PA
Quarryville PresbyterianRetirement CommunityCCRC, A/D • 717-786-7321Quarryville PA
Red Rose ManorPC • 717-394-8999Lancaster PA
Rheems Nursing CenterN • 717-367-1831Rheems PA
St. Anne’s Retirement CommunityN, PC, IND • 717-285-5443Columbia PA
St. John’s Herr EstateIND, PC • 717-684-0678Columbia PA
Sunny Crest HomePC • 610-286-5000Morgantown PA
Susquehanna Valley Reha-bilitation and Nursing FacilityN • 717-684-7555Columbia PA
United Zion HomeCCRC • 717-626-2071Lititz PA
Village Vista Skilled Nursing Facility N • 717-397-5583Lancaster PA
Vineyard of CentervillePC • 717-299-2919Lancaster PA
Evergreen EstatesRetirement CommunityPC • 717-394-2208Lancaster PA
Fairmount HomesCCRC • 717-354-4111Ephrata PA
Faith Friendship Villaof MountvillePC • 717-285-5596Mountville PA
Friendship CommunityPC • 717-656-2466Lititz PA
Garden Spot VillageCCRC, A/D • 717-355-6000New Holland PA
Golden Living Center N • 717-397-4281Lancaster PA
The GrovesPC • 717-733-2040Ephrata PA
Hamilton ArmsN • 717-393-0419Lancaster PA
Harrison House of ChristianaN • 610-593-6901Christiana PA
Harvest View Assisted LivingCCRC • 717-445-4551Narvon PA
Heatherbank Nursing andRehabilitation CenterN • 717-684-7555Columbia PA
Hershey Mill HomePC • 717-285-3358Mountville PA
Hearthstone Retirement VillaPC • 717-492-9692Mount Joy PA
Homestead VillageCCRC • 717-397-4831Lancaster PA
Hope HousePC • 717-293-9089Lancaster PA
Lancashire Hall Nursing andRehabilitation CenterN • 717-569-3211Lancaster PA
Akron HavenPC • 717-859-4141Akron PA
Audubon VillaN, PC • 717-626-0211Lititz PA
Brereton Manor Guest HomePC • 717-872-2403Washington Boro PA
Brethren VillageCCRC • 717-569-2657Lancaster PA
Calvary Fellowship HomesCCRC • 717-393-0711Lancaster PA
Cambridge LancasterPC • 717-397-3000Lancaster PA
Cherry Street HomePC • 717-684-7060Columbia PA
Cocalico Assisted LivingPC • 717-335-2244Denver PA
Cocalico Christian HomePC • 717-336-1788Denver PA
Colonial HallPC • 717-397-3000Lancaster PA
Colonial LodgePC • 717-336-5501Denver PA
Conestoga ViewN, RHB, A/D • 717-299-7850Lancaster PA
Country Meadows of LancasterPC, A/D • 717-392-4100Lancaster, PA
Country View ManorPC • 717-284-3350Quarryville PA
Denver Nursing HomeN, PC • 717-627-1123Stevens PA
Ephrata ManorIND, N, PC • 717-738-4940Ephrata PA
LANCASTER
17Southeast Pennsylvania
Arden CourtsA/D • 610-366-9010Allentown PA
Atria BethlehemIND, PC, A/D • 610-317-0700Bethlehem PA
Blough Healthcare CenterN • 610-868-4982Bethlehem PA
Cedarbrook Nursing HomesN • 610-395-3727Cedarbrook Lehigh County Home Allentown PA
Country Meadows of AllentownPC, IND, A/D • 610-395-6521Allentown PA
David A Miller Assisted LivingPC • 610-794-53001925 Turner StreetAllentown PA 18104www.phoebe.org
Fellowship ManorN, PC, IND • 610-799-3000Whitehall PA
Good Shepherd Home BethlehemN • 610-807-5600Bethlehem PA
Good Shepherd HomeLongterm Care FacilityN • 610-776-3136Allentown PA
Green Meadows at AllentownPC • 610-434-7433Allentown PA
Holy Family ManorN • 610-865-5595Bethlehem PA
Kirkland VillageCCR • 610-691-4504Bethlehem PA
Lehigh Manor Nursing & Rehab Center N, A/D • 610-366-0500Macungie PA
Lehigh Valley Hospital TCU• 610-402-3300 Allentown PA
Liberty Nursing And Rehab CenterN • 610-432-4351Allentown PA
Luther Crest Retirement CommunityCCRC • 610-391-8220Allentown PA
Manorcare Health Svcs AllentownN, A/D • 610-776-7522Allentown PA
Manorcare Health Svcs-Bethlehem IN, A/D • 610-865-6077Bethlehem PA
Manorcare Health Svcs-Bethlehem IIN • 610-861-0100Bethlehem PA
Moravian Village of BethlehemCCRC • 610-954-7349Bethlehem PA
Mosser Nursing HomeN, A/D • 610-395-5661Trexlertown PA
New Seasons at MountainviewPC, RHB, A/D • 610-797-4651Allentown PA
New Seasons at AllentownPC, RHB • 610-433-9220Allentown PA
Phoebe ApartmentsIND • 610-794-62621901 West Linden StreetAllentown PA 18104www.phoebe.org
Phoebe HomeN, RHB • 610-435-90371925 Turner StreetAllentown PA 18104www.phoebe.orgPhoebe TerraceRetirement CommunityAA • 610-794-60001940 Turner StreetAllentown PA 18104www.phoebe.org
Sacred Heart Hospital TCFAllentown PA • 610-776-4500
St. Luke’s TCU• 610-954-4242Bethlehem PA
Traditions of HanoverIND • 610-882-0400Bethlehem, PA
Valley Manor Nursing And RehabN • 610-282-1919Coopersburg PA
Westminster VillageCCRC • 610-434-6245Allentown PA
Kar-Lyn HomesPC • 717-274-7525Lebanon PA
Kindred PlaceIND • 717-867-5572Annville PA
Lebanon Valley Brethren Home• 717-838-5406Palmyra PA
Lebanon Valley HomeN • 717-867-4467Annville PA
Linden VillagePC, A/D • 717-274-7400Lebanon PA
ManorCare Health ServicesN, A/D • 717-273-8595Lebanon PA
Palmyra Nursing HomeN • 717-838-3011Palmyra PA
Pleasant View RetirementCommunityCRC, A/D • 717-665-2445Manheim PA
Rothermel L Caplan TCU• 717-270-7729Lebanon PA
Spang Crest ManorPC, N, RHB, Daycare• 717-274-1495 Lebanon PA
StoneRidge Poplar RunCCRC • 717-866-3200440 E. Lincoln AveMyerstown, PA
StoneRidge Towne CenterN RHB PC A/D 717-866-32007 West Park AveMyerstown, PA
The Traditions of HersheyIND • 717-838-2330Palmyra, PA
Twin Oaks Nursing HomePC, N • 717-838-2231Campbelltown PA
Twin Spruce of MyerstownPC • 717-866-2938Myerstown PA
United Christian Church HomeCCRC • 717-867-4636Annville PA
York StreetPC • 717-272-1124Lebanon PA
Welsh Mountain Samaritan HomePC • 717-355-9522New Holland PA
Westvue at Homestead VillagePC • 717-397-4831Lancaster PA
Willow ValleyRetirement CommunitiesCCRC • 717-464-6800Lancaster PA 800-770-5445
Willow Valley – The Glen N, PC • 717-464-6161Lancaster PA
Willow Valley – Meadow RidgePC • 717-490-8100Willow Street PA
Willow View HomePC • 717-786-5519Willow Street PA
Woodcrest VillaRetirement CommunityCCRC, A/D • 717-390-4100Lancaster PA
Woodland HeightsRetirement CommunityCCRC • 717-445-8741Narvon PA
Zerbe Sisters Nursing CenterN • 717-445-4551Narvon PA
Cedar HavenN, A/D • 717-274-0421Lebanon PA
Columbia Cottage-Palmyra• 717-832-2900Palmyra PA
Cornwall ManorCCRC • 717-273-2647Cornwall PA
Elmcroft of LebanonPC • 717-228-0909Labanon PA
Hearthstone Manor of LebanonPC, A/D • 717-272-8782Lebanon PA
Hill Farm EstatePC, IND • 717-867-5176Annville PA
LEBANON
LEHIGH
1818
River cruising has quickly become the vacation of choice for many Boomers and Pre-Boomers. This is because it's a very easy, affordable and experiential vacation choice. But, are you ready for a river cruise? Let's take a closer look.
First of all, we flat out say that a river cruise trip is not for everyone. That's right. Not everyone will enjoy the many benefits that this affordable and luxurious cruise has to offer. If you fit the following profile, you might not want to consider a river cruise and might be better served with a more traditional cruise ship vacation.
Now, we don't want to place too large of a cloud over traditional ocean cruising because the ocean cruise business is the genesis of what has driven the exploding river cruise demand. And, an ocean cruise vacation does have many wonderful elements and is still the second best cruise vacation choice you can make.
Today's modern ocean-going ship has it all: rock-climbing walls, ice skating, up to 20 different dining venues for your enjoyment [most at an extra fee], and gorgeous accommodations with nice amenities - did we mention you now pay for the movies you watch in your cabin. Ocean ships are now more like a Vegas-style vacation than a cruise, but our main objection is... what ever happened to the all-inclusive nature of a cruise? It is dead and buried!
Between outrageous taxes and fees, to being charged for almost anything you do on the ship beyond taking a walk on deck, the cost of the cruise ticket is generally far less than your onboard expenses. That's just not right. Period!
Is this truly what you want your perfect vacation to be like? We don't think so.
While river cruise vacations are extraordinary, the may not be for those under 40, but for those of us who prefer to travel with smaller groups of like-minded people, see and experience a destination in depth, then this type of almost fully-inclusive river cruise vacation is right for you.
You are not the river cruise type if you enjoy: • Being nickel'd and dimed for everything [wine, beer, espressos, snacks, Internet, etc.] • Paying extra to eat in one of the "nice" specialty restaurants - whoa! • Paying extra for all your shore excursions, which can be over $1000 per person. • Paying extra for some of the onboard entertainment and venues. • A large impersonal staff that think of you as "Tip" and never know your name. • Being jammed on a ship with up to 5000 of your closest friends... and that's only the passengers. • Spending 2-3 hours getting on and off the ship each day in port. • Driving over an hour from the port to the city center to begin your shore excursion. • Never having enough time to truly get to see a port and mix with its people. • Dining with 1000 people all trying to be served at the same time with assembly line food. • Getting seasick when the seas are just a bit rough. • Having to get dressed up at night - formal nights, and... • The disco at night... whee!
River Cruise Versus an Ocean Cruise - Let Me Count the Ways!By Rick Kaplan
By contrast, let's examine what a luxurious river cruise offers: • A very spacious ship that on average only accommodates 130 or so privileged guests. • Sumptuous accommodations with every conceivable cabin amenity. • Impeccable cuisine, much of which is prepared ala minute [when you order it]. • Complimentary wines, beers, sodas and bottled water. • Complimentary small-group sightseeing excursions in EVERY port. • Most ships have gym, sauna, message, hairdresser, pool, FREE Internet and free use of bicycles. • Daily free onboard evening entertainment. • Complimentary in-cabin Internet, entertainment systems with live U.S. T.V., and free movies. • Dock right in the center of most towns and it takes only one minute to get on/off the ship. • Ability to see more of a region and experience in-depth the local culture. • A resort casual onboard atmosphere - leave the formalwear at home. • All staterooms, repeat ALL rooms have a river view. • You can NEVER get seasick on a river cruise ship. • Impeccable, warm and friendly service by an English only speaking crew. • A staff that knows your name and favorite beverage by the second day. • Last, but certainly FIRST in our book: A lifetime of memories from the journey and the people you've met.
Photography by: Jennifer Borror
19Southeast Pennsylvania 19Southeast Pennsylvania
Another point to consider: what do you really want a cruise vacation to afford you when it comes to the places you visit? We believe a river cruise provides the best possible, easiest way to explore [in depth] and learn about a specific region of a country or countries.
Of course, ocean-going ships will not take you to Venice, a river cruise ship will. Ocean cruise ships will go to places a river cruise cannot, simply because that place is not on a river - nothing more. But think about the world before we go beyond this point. Much, if not most, of the ancient world was developed alongside of a river because the rivers were the main source of commerce and easy to navigate. Therefore, places like Amsterdam, Vienna, Budapest, Rouen, Paris, Honfleur, Lyon, Strasbourg, Avignon Vienne, Prague, Belgrade, Moscow, St. Petersburg, Beijing, the Nile River, the Mekong River of Vietnam and more can only be reached by river ship! River ships truly afford you the opportunity to see more of the world, visiting intimate, ancient towns and villages that can never be reached by ocean going ships.
In this article, we have covered just a few of the many reasons we feel that this luxurious and affordable vacation alternative is the best choice for most people... those who prefer not to be on a ship with up to 5000 of their closest non-friends, don't want to pay extra for almost everything, but want to enjoy the intimacy of a small ship with a hundred or so friendly, like-minded co-passengers, the "included" 5-star luxuries and amenities, impeccable cuisine and FREE shore excursions surely will choose a river cruise vacation.
If you've not been on an exciting river cruise, you might think your choices are limited, but that's not the case. Depending on your personal likes and lifestyle, you might choose an exciting food and wine focused French river cruise, a historical Danube cruise, a great for first timers Rhine River Cruise, or a remarkable Eastern Europe cruise. For those looking for something a bit more exotic, what about a Vietnam river cruise, on the delightful Mekong River for your next vacation.
If you've never enjoyed an exciting destination based river cruise, talk with a travel agency that specializes in river cruises, you won't be disappointed is the value and rewards you receive after a truly memorable river cruise vacation.
Our team, are experts at working with first time river cruisers to ensure you get the best value and best cruise for you and your lifestyle - that's really important. Take a look through our website and discover the many wonderful and affordable river cruise vacations we have to offer.
For more information on an exciting river cruise, visit: http://www.premierrivercruises.comRick Kaplan has been in the cruise-only business for more than 25 years. He has been assisting new cruisers with the proper selection of the best cruise line and ship to meet
their personal needs and desires and is an expert on all elements of river cruising.Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Rick_Kaplan
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21Southeast Pennsylvania 21
Ideas for Container Gardening
Tomato Pest Prevention Surprise
Larry L. Taylor
Jana Rudisill
C
M
Jana Rudisill has been gardening since the 1970's and has used the above method on tomatoes every year since it came to light. Every year, without fail, the pests have not bothered the tomato
plants other than to take one taste and discover the plant undesirable to eat.Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jana_Rudisill
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7529771
Container gardening is a hot new trend for people who may not have enough room for traditional gardening, or want to grow plants in a smaller space like a patio or a balcony. No matter the reason, there are a few basic things to know before starting a container garden.
Although any container can be used for container gardening, it should have a way for water to leave in order to prevent the plants from having too much water at any one time. Put a small hole in the container to allow excess water to drain out. When choosing your container, you can go to a gardening store for an easy option of wooden, ceramic, or plastic garden pots. However, many people like to use unique pieces from attics, antique stores, or even build their own. The sky is the limit, and you can personalize your container garden easily.
After choosing the right container, be sure to use a good quality soil. Choose a high-quality potting soil and also pick up some fertilizer that will help the plants to grow. Then choose where you're going to put your garden. Sunlight is a key factor since many plants need six or more hours of sunlight a day. Choose the optimal place for both appearance and the health of the plants.
After gathering all the materials, pick your plants. For flowers year-round, start by planting bulbs in the spring and then adding summer plants in June or July. Daffodils, tulips, and hyacinths are great choices for appearance and are also hardy flowers. Other flower ideas, especially for spring, are iris, pansies, daisies, and crocuses. Choose your flowers based on color and season of growing. A great way to choose a color scheme is to look at catalogs of flowers to see what color the bulbs turn out to be.
These flowers are generally milder whites, yellows, blues, and purples, but for a vivid red, consider nasturtiums. These sun-loving plants last a long time and go well with decorative plants. They also go well with other plants and share a space well.
If you're not interested in having flowers, consider herbs as an alternative. If you enjoy cooking, having fresh herbs at your fingertips is a great choice. These should generally be planted in the spring and choosing spices like parsley, basil, chives, sage, and marjoram ensure a wide variety. If space is limited, you can also use canes for plants to grow up. Sweet peas and decorative vines will climb a trellis or poles and add some height to a garden.
No matter how you decide to put together a container garden, regular care is crucial. Although this type of gardening is simple to set up, you need to water the plants and monitor the moisture levels to ensure that they have adequate hydration throughout the spring and summer months. These are the basics of container gardening. This type of gardening is a favorite pastime for many people and is a great way to decorate or spend time.
And now I would like to invite you to visit http://www.GardenJargon.com for free instant access to a more information on container gardening ideas. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Larry_L._Taylor
Many home gardeners find themselves fighting what seems to be a losing battle every year. Insect pests of every kind are munching away at their crops and dashing the gardener's hopes of harvesting healthy vegetables and fruits. So, what can be done about this if one has a sincere desire to grow crops with minimal or no chemicals? Many Universities across the United States of America have done research on various plants and have come up with some very surprising answers. One in particular could be of great interest to many home gardeners, as most will plant tomatoes in their home gardens every year.
Back in the 1970's, the University of Nebraska (Agricultural Department) was doing research on tomatoes and made a startling discovery. Tomatoes that suffered some kind of physical damage to their leaves by some means were less damaged by insects during the remainder of the growing season! This sparked intense research as to what made these plants more resistant to insect damage. The conclusion drawn from this research will save many home gardeners from spraying down their tomato plants with toxic chemicals to kill insect pests.
The results of the research showed that, when a leaf of a tomato plant is damaged, usually by being stepped on, or otherwise mashed on a portion of that leaf, the tomato plant releases a hormone that tastes bad to insects that attempt to eat it!
A personal experience of this phenomenon happened in Nebraska back in the late 1970's after reading the research article from the University of Nebraska. Once the tomato transplants had at least three levels of leaves on it, and following the instructions on the research bulletin, one of the bottom leaves was mashed between the fingers and left on the plant. A month later, a large swarm of grasshoppers came through the town where I was living at the time. Needless to say, everything in the garden was eaten down to the bare stems - except the tomatoes! Granted, they had tiny holes all over the leaves where the hungry grasshoppers took one taste and discovered that it was not tasty, and left. Neighbors could not believe how our tomatoes survived, as theirs were eaten to the bare stalks. My explanation had them shaking their heads in disbelief.
Nothing is nicer on a hot summer day than a fresh tomato from your garden. Use this surprising secret method of pest prevention on your tomato transplants, or your direct sown tomato plants once they have three rows, or levels, of leaves. Just be sure to leave the leaf you have mashed on the plant. You will notice a distinct, strong smell coming from the plant, but it will not harm the fruit in any way. It is simply the plant hormone doing it's job. Insect pests don't get to have lunch, but you definitely will enjoy lots of tasty tomatoes all summer long.
Happy gardening!
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OOften times we get into routines and it is hard to think about a new, more advantageous way of doing something. One such area is our finances. It may be that we get a check in the mail once a week and come rain or shine we drive to the bank and deposit the check. What happens is that there may be times the check may not be in the mail or we cannot drive to the bank. This article is going to discuss a financial alternative – direct deposit. Areas which may be affecting our weekly finances are federal programs such as Social Security. Some programs are even requiring each of us to switch to direct deposit or to a debit card; for some of us this change may be intimidating.
To set up a social security deposit directly into your account you would first access the website by going to Google search bar and typing in the following web address http://www.godirect.org/, and hit the enter key.
Computers and Our Finances Welcome to a new series on how a computer can assist to simplify our financial routines.
When you have the above documents, click the “Get Direct Deposit”
This site will request that you gather certain information before you can be set up the direct deposit. The graphic pictured below is on the site to assist in identifying the items:
Once within the site, you will be asked to click prompts which pertain to you. Most of you will click on the circle “I am the beneficiary recipient”.
To set up a Direct Express debit card you will need the documents listed below:
You will then click the “continue” button at the bottom of the page. It is here that you will enter the information which you collected as pictured above. The site will walk you through the next steps to set up direct deposit.
Note: If direct deposit is not for you, you may want to consider the option for Direct Express. Direct Express is a prepaid debit card option. This option works if you do not have a bank account or you prefer debit cards. Information for Direct Express is found at the website - http://www.usdirectexpress.com/edcfdtclient/index.html. This option is also performed over the phone at 1 800-333-1795.
Each site mentioned above has additional information which can assist you during an online setup. Once set up, you do not have to worry about the weather and driving to the bank because your deposit will be automatically deposited into your account.
Please stay tuned to The Senior Guidebook to Lancaster County and our upcoming articles regarding computerized financial options.
Stephanie Knarr is a partner with AdvantageIT: Technology Support for Senior Living. AdvantageIT is a company that provides training, a dedicated Help Desk, and
computer support services to the residents of retirement communities, active adult developments, personal care and skilled care facilities. We also provide business consulting. AdvantageIT is based in Wyomissing, PA. Please contact Stephanie
with any questions or comments at [email protected], or visit us online at www.advantageitco.com or Facebook.com/AdvantageITco.
Note: When accessing a secure site you will often see a lock such as pictured below. This ensures you that the site is secure and no one else can view the personal information you will enter on the next screen. The social security site is secured.
23Southeast Pennsylvania
Enjoy the season with these five-star Spring recipes.
Pulled Pork Sandwiches
1 jar (16 oz) Chunky Salsa1 jar (16 oz) Chipolte chunky Salsa1 can (16 oz) jellied cranberry sauce, cut up1 cup packed brown sugar1/3 cup prepared mustard1 tsp. freashly grated or ground nutmeg5 lb. boneless pork shoulder, cut into 2” chunks
Ingredients:
Prep Time: 20 min.Cook Time: 2 Hr. 25 min.
Directions:Mix salsas, cranberry sauce, sugar, mustard, and nutmeg in a large saucepan. Heat to a boil. Cook over low heat 10 minutes. Add pork and heat to boil. Cover and cook over low heat for 2 hr. or until pork is tender.
Remove pork from sauce cool slightly. Shred pork, using two forks. Return pork to sauce and heat through. Serve.
Strawberry and Mascarpone Filled Cupcakes
1 box vanilla cake mix1 (8 oz) container mascarpone cheese, chilled½ cup thawed and drained frozen strawberries¼ cup sugar, plus another ½ cup sugar1 Tbl lemon juice¼ cup water1 tsp vanilla extract2 cups confectioners’ sugar
Prep Time: 30 min.Cook time: 25 min.
Special equipment: Muffin tin • Pastry bag with small tip
Ingredients:
Directions:Make cupcakes according to package instructions. Lightly grease the muffin pan and fill batter almost to the rim of each muffin cup. Bake according to package and let cool. In food processor combine the mascarpone cheese, strawberries, 1/4 sugar, and lemon juice. Process the mixture until smooth. Transfer the strawberry mixture to a pastry bag fitted with a small tip. Push the tip gently into the bottom of a cupcake and squeeze in the strawberry mixture until the cupcake plumps. In a small saucepan bring ½ cup sugar, water, and vanilla extract to a simmer over medium heat. Simmer until the sugar is dissolved. In a medium bowl combine the vanilla syrup with the confectioner’s sugar. Stir until smooth. Working quickly, use a rubber spatula to spread the icing on the top of the cupcakes. If icing begins to firm up, place in the microwave for a few seconds to warm up again.
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LPreservation of Assets
Lifecare is a program that aids in the protection of financial assets. By purchasing Lifecare for a set fee, with minimal inflationary increases, individuals have the assurance of knowing that the remainder of their income and assets will be protected in the event of a catastrophic illness which might require long-term skilled nursing care. In addition residents receive substantial tax benefits related to the prepayment of future health care costs.
Using Today’s dollars for Tomorrow’s Healthcare NeedsPurchasing Lifecare guarantees you will have care in the future when
you need it. You will have already paid for much of that future care with an investment made in today’s dollars. Even as daily costs for assisted living/personal care and skilled nursing care increase, you have already locked in your investment. Lifecare answers the questions of whether a person will be able to afford long-term care in the future. The price of Lifecare already includes long-term care for life at a predictable cost.
Security for CouplesRarely do both spouses in a marriage remain equally healthy for an
equally long period of time. By purchasing Lifecare, couples ensure that the appropriate levels of amenities and services will be available to both spouses simultaneously, for life.
This allows the couple to maintain their independence for a much longer period of time. Lifecare programs are a safety net of services that allows the couple to maintain a close, loving relationship while either spouse receives the care he or she needs and deserves. This alleviates one spouse having to provide round the clock care for the other, yet allows them to be together under the same roof while still paying the single monthly service fee. And finally, both spouses can rest assured that should one predecease the other, the remaining spouse’s care has been guaranteed.
Quality of Life - Today and in the FutureLifecare provides the opportunity to maintain quality of life as we progress
through the continuum of life. The services provided by a Lifecare community with a contract for continuing care, assure the details that provide meaningful quality of life will be available as the years pass. Additionally it takes away the burden to the spouse, children, or Power of Attorney of locating and making the decision of where healthcare services will be provided in the future. Ultimately, Lifecare is designed to meet the needs of the individual at every level of the retirement experience.
Lifecare Contracts remain a good option for many Seniors!
The Highlands at Wyomissing is a non-profit, Continuing Care Retirement Community offering residential, assisted living/personal care, skilled nursing and memory support care. Call us to learn more about Lifecare at The Highlands at Wyomissing. Please visit www.thehighlands.org or call 610-288-3405.
Lifecare is a term that is used in the retirement industry, although many times the concept of Lifecare and its benefits are not well understood. Long-term care is a topic on the minds of many seniors today. With modern medicine continuing to advance, people are living longer than ever and life expectancy continues to increase. And as people live longer, the need for a variety of healthcare services, including, personal care/assisted living and long-term nursing care, increases. This prepaid continuum of care, called Lifecare, meets the needs of residents, beginning with residential living, followed by personal care/assisted living, and finally, skilled nursing care. In today’s environment of escalating health care costs, comprehensive levels of care are important. A standard Lifecare (All-Inclusive) contract includes residential living with all the lifestyle features and amenities available, plus unlimited personal care/assisted living and skilled nursing care whenever needed for as long as needed, all covered by the same monthly service fee.
Long Term Care Statistics
• The average annual cost for a private room in a nursing home in the Reading, Pa area is $107,310. The average annual cost for a semi-private room in the Reading, Pa area in a nursing home is $95,630. *Genworth Financial 2010 Cost of Care Survey
• The average annual cost for a private, one bedroom assisted living/personal care apartment in Reading, Pa area is $39,390. *Genworth Financial 2010 Cost of Care Survey.
• Nearly 70 percent of those turning 65 this year eventually will require long-term care in their lifetimes. *2006 Congressional Quarterly Report
• Medicare, a federal program, pays for approximately 12% of care in skilled nursing centers. *PA Department of Health 2007 Long-Term Care Questionnaire
• The lifetime probability of becoming disabled in at least two activities of daily living or of being cognitively impaired is 68% for people age 65 and older. *AARP. Beyond 50.2003: A Report to the Nation on Independent Living and Disability, 2003, (11 Jan 2005).
• About 75 percent of single people and 50 percent of all couples spend all their savings within one year of entering a nursing home. *The Wall Street Journal, June 2000
• Roughly 40% of those reaching the age of 70 are expected to need some type of long term care during the rest of their lives. *GE Capital, 2002
• More than half of the US population will require long term care at some point in their lives. * Americans for Long-Term Care Security, www.ltcweb.org, August 2000
• One out of five Americans over the age of 50 is at risk of needing long term care in the next 12 months. *Americans for Long-Term Care Security, www.ltcweb.org, August 2000
• 60% of people over age 75 will need long term care and need care for approximately 3 years. *Business Week www.businessweek.com
