retirement – Beatitudes Community

A Fond Farewell to Becky Black

Mon, August 30, 2021 Published by Beatitudes Campus

Becky, I know that I speak for your sales team and the entire campus when I say that it has been absolutely great working with you—your work truly made a lasting impact, and one that has changed the campus for the better in so many ways. I have always appreciated how you were readily available to lend an ear when complex considerations arose on the path to residency and help solve any problem and that you have done so with grace, humor and caring.

Helping Keep Aging Couples Together

Tue, June 18, 2019 Published by Beatitudes Campus

One of the things that we are so often asked about by couples visiting Beatitudes Campus and considering their future is about what the future may look like as the years go by. About 70 percent of people over the age of 65 will need some type of long-term care during their lifetime, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS). On average, women will need care for a longer period of time (3.7 years), compared to men (2.2 years), and 20 percent of those age 65 and older will need care for more than five years.

An active, healthy lifestyle can help protect your mind and body from disease and injury—which often leads to a need for long-term care. This is why we offer such a wide range of opportunities through the Life Enrichment department.Mike Smallwood and Jon Schilling are always eager to help you put together individual plans to support that healthy lifestyle. However, there are no guarantees in life and the question of whether—and how long—you or your spouse may need care remains unknown.

Since aging is an individual thing, a couple should not expect that both partners will have the same needs throughout retirement. As a couple ages, one partner may require assisted living or skilled nursing services, while the other partner remains able to live independently.

A continuing care retirement community (CCRC)/lifeplan community can help couples prepare for the challenges that an unknown future may offer. CCRCs provide a continuum of services—from independent living to nursing-home level health care—that is available if and when needed. I often hear Becky Black, our Director of Sales & Marketing, refer to it as “peace of mind” in your back pocket. If, after moving onto the campus, one spouse eventually needs a higher level of health care services, the couple can still be together here at Beatitudes.

Here is an example of how a lifeplan community such as Beatitudes Campus can meet the needs of both partners over time:

Jim and Jane move into an independent living apartment or patio home here at the campus. A few years later, Jane is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease. The couple continues to live together for a couple of years, but as Jane’s needs change, she moves into another section of the campus to receive additional care and support. Jim continues to enjoy the social benefits of living within the retirement community and can visit with Jane, who is just a short walk away, whenever he wants.

Those of you who are reading this article as residents – congratulations! You took one of the most significant steps you could in planning for your future. Those who are reading and still considering—our residency counselors can help you take a look at all of the variables and help you develop a plan. Couples who seek peace of mind in the face of uncertainty may want to consider a lifeplan community/CCRC as a viable retirement living choice to ensure that both partners will be taken care of now and in the future. And residents, don’t forget that you can be financially rewarded for sharing the good news with friends and family – your first successful referral will earn you $1,000 and the amounts go up from there. Stop by the sales center to get your referral form and begin earning!

Bad For Your Health

Sun, April 7, 2019 Published by Beatitudes Campus

I noticed an article the other day, “In Later years, Your House May be Bad For Your Health.” Of course I had to read more. It cited recent results of the first of a five-year study being conducted by Chicago-based Mather Lifeways Institute on Aging and Northwestern University which found that nearly 70% of Life Plan Community (also known as Continuing Care Retirement Community) residents stated that moving into such a community, “somewhat or greatly improved their social wellness.”

We are consistently interested in what distinguishes Beatitudes Campus from other senior living options. What we experience here seems to track with what the study was finding. Including more than 5,000 residents in 80 Life Plan Communities across 29 states, the study survey found that residents of the communities (which typically offer independent living, assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing in a single location) scored higher across five of six recognized facets of wellness than about 1,000 peer group older adults living in the community at large—including greater emotional, social, physical, intellectual and vocational wellness.

Focusing on just assisted living, a 2018 study of residents in just over 20 communities operated across four states by New Jersey-based Juniper Communities, found that hospitalizations of residents were half that of peer group seniors living at home. Juniper in turn estimated that such reductions are saving Medicare between $4 and $6 million each year and would save between $10 and $15 billion annually if applied across the similar larger population of Medicare beneficiaries.

While both studies are essentially conducted by senior living organizations, they reflect what has been intuitively suggested by not only professionals, but residents within senior communities for years. Specifically, that living within a community setting, with daily access to friends as well as personal health assistance, dining, wellness and social programs, housekeeping, maintenance, and transportation services – may not only improve quality of life for individuals age 75+, but add to it. I hear this from our Ambassadors time and again as they speak to prospects considering Beatitudes Campus as their home.

To be clear, more, longer and larger studies are needed. And there is no industry-wide research indicating all assisted living communities could produce the same health outcomes as Juniper, considered by many to be among the best in the industry. Still, surveys have consistently shown that as high as 90+% of senior housing residents and family members are satisfied with their experience.

Which leads to the question of why approximately 90% of Americans age 75+ are choosing to remain at home. Yes, many are still physically and socially independent, but data suggests more may be able to benefit from the services and care senior living offers than are accessing such communities.

Consider:

Lack of socialization is a major source of depression, with nearly half of women age 75+ living alone. The National Institute of Mental Health has declared depression among older adults a major public health issue.

44% of older adults 75+ report having at least one physical disability that impairs their ability to live independently.

14% of adults age 71+ and 32% of adults age 85+ suffer from Alzheimer’s Disease or related dementia.

Drivers age 80+ have the highest rate of fatal crashes per miles driven of any age group.

More than 34 million Americans are serving as unpaid caregivers for an older adult parent, spouse, other relative, friend or neighbor, the majority of whom are age 75+, for an average of 24 hours per week.

Perhaps the largest factors inhibiting utilization of senior housing are cultural and based on stereotyped perception. In the first case, the current “Silent Generation” of older adults (born during the Great Depression) were raised on the idea of putting a roof over their heads and never giving it up, along with an ingrained responsibility to never be a burden on anyone. In the second case, many older adults continue to assume that a senior living community is a place for “old people” and represents the institutional “nursing homes” of yore – even as the studies above indicate otherwise. Just today, I spoke with a fellow whose mother lives close by in our neighborhood and he remarked how much he knew she would benefit from the “purposeful living” about which we center so much of what we do at Beatitudes. He will be by soon with her to see the campus and I can’t wait to have her experience what so many of you delight in communicating to our visitors – our mission and philosophy of the campus and the effect on superior senior living!

Money Matters

Sun, March 17, 2019 Published by Beatitudes Campus

Ever wonder how all the pieces of your financial puzzle fit together? Join us Friday, March 22nd at 1:00PM in the Agelink Great Room (AGR) for an informational panel to address the financial questions that are most relevant to residents.

Our panel features professionals on issues large and small that impact our daily lives and our long-term well-being. Panel members include Allen Bloch, Chief Financial Officer of Beatitudes Campus; Ellen Dean, Financial Planner; Laurel Hickok, CPA and Daily Money Manager; and Megan Selvey, Bivens and Associates Elder Law Attorney.

While money is important to us at any age, it can become even more so as we grow older. Demographic changes mean we are living longer after retirement, and funding those decades of longer life can be a challenge. Social Security is the primary source of income for many older adults, and about one-third of retired people rely on Social Security for over 90 percent of their income.

Additionally, questions about long-term care costs, money management, and frauds and scams have become part of our daily conversations. Concerns about escalating health care costs can also cause us to worry, which, incidentally, can negatively impact our health.

The format of our panel will include a brief self-introduction by panelists, to be followed with moderated questions that address central themes, and will conclude with questions from the audience.

Topics of interest will include:

Money and family: “How do I know if it is still ok to give money to my adult children? Should I add them to my bank account? Should I co-sign a loan?”

Personal finance: “I expect to live twenty more years, but my money only expects to live about five more years. What is available to help people like me?” “Should I keep my life insurance policy?”

Long Term Care: “Why does my long-term care insurance premium keep going up? Are there ways to lower the premium without losing benefits? How do people afford higher levels of care on Campus?”

Legal issues: “Do I need a will even if I am not wealthy?” “I’m confused about what a durable power of attorney means. Should I have one?” “Should I file for bankruptcy?”

Our panel is brought to you by the Health and Wellness Committee and Success Matters. We hope you can join us on Friday, March 22nd, at 1:00PM in the Agelink Great Room.

Moving to a Life Plan Community

Sun, March 3, 2019 Published by Beatitudes Campus

For many older adults who are currently independent, but like the idea of living in a setting where healthcare services are available if needed down the road, a continuing care retirement community (CCRC also known as a Life Plan Community) can be an ideal solution.

Many Beatitudes Campus prospects ask us, “When is the best time to make the move?” Many of you reading this article remember wrestling with this question yourself. There is no perfect answer to this question because everyone’s situation will be different. However, waiting too long can mean missing out on some of the very reasons people are attracted to a life plan community in the first place.

We often counsel that if you feel that a continuing care retirement life plan community is right for you, here are a few reasons why you may want to consider moving sooner rather than later:

Involvement: One of the main benefits of living in a community like Beatitudes is having easy access to a vast array of services, amenities and activities. Many of these perks take place within the walls of the community, but we are increasingly providing ways for residents to stay involved in the broader community through service projects, the 19North Neighborhood Association, our Life Long Learning adult education classes, and more. Many of you can well attest to the fact that moving earlier allows residents to more fully enjoy and benefit from these “extra-curricular” activities. As we talk with those considering the campus, it’s often a story they are eager to hear from you. We so appreciate our Resident Ambassadors who are so willing to talk about their experiences weighing all the factors……and almost always, it’s about the environment of purposeful living so much a part of the fabric of the campus. If you are interested in taking the training and becoming an Ambassador, please contact the Marketing Office and see how you can become involved.

Wellness: We strive to help residents stay healthy and live independently as long as possible. Comprehensive health and wellness programs include access to qualified fitness professionals, special diet meal plans, our aquatic and fitness centers, low-impact aerobics, and yoga classes, just to name a few. Additionally, we continue to emphasize a “whole-person” concept, including emotional, spiritual, intellectual, vocational, and spiritual experiences, and have an award-winning Success Matters program which provides the opportunity to assess what makes up your best path to maximize independence.

Relationships: Residents of life plan communities often say that one of the best things about them is the friendships they have formed with other residents. That is absolutely the hallmark of Beatitudes Campus. Those who wait too long to make the move may not have the time to develop meaningful relationships, which can be particularly helpful as part of a support network if healthcare needs arise in the future. Again, prospects are very interested in your stories and we will be reaching out and providing opportunities to highlight them in our publications and website in the next few months.

The number of folks considering the campus right now is very high. We already have 28 of the 34 patio homes that will open beginning in early 2019, committed and several others have placed a hold. Additionally, we have begun the B V.I.P. Program for the new Promenade Residences to be built on the site of the former Garden Apartments and have more than 40 who have been given priority numbers. And our current living options are seeing more inquiries than at any time in the last four years!

So, with all this activity, do we need your help? Absolutely! Our mission is to provide what we believe is the best in purposeful, resident-centered senior living for as many folks as possible. So, don’t forget the Friends and Family Resident Referral Program which pays you or your family member for successful recommendations of prospects to the campus. Stop by the Marketing Office for details so we can provide you a referral form.

So, when is the best time to move to the campus? Many of you would answer with a hardy, “right now!” This is literally one of the most dynamic times at the campus since its original founding and we are anxious to share the excitement with as many as possible. Thanks so much for all the many ways you help us every day! Viva la Beatitudes!*

Arizona State Retirement System Changes

Sun, February 10, 2019 Published by Beatitudes Campus

Are you an Arizona State Retiree who gets health insurance through your retirement plan? This year the Arizona State Retirement System (ASRS) announced a change in one segment of its retiree health insurance.

ASRS has traditionally had two plans to choose from: they offered both an HMO Plan (Medicare Part C) and a Medicare Senior Supplement (Original Medicare with Part B Supplement, also called a Medigap plan). If you previously had Medicare coverage through the ASRS HMO Plan, these new changes do not affect you. If, however, you had Original Medicare with a Senior Supplement through ASRS, the 2019 changes will affect your coverage.

Both ASRS plans rely on “passive enrollment,” which is a convenient way for people to keep their current plan from year to year. This year, however, retirees who had the Senior Supplement Plan (not the HMO) were passively enrolled out of Original Medicare and into a Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) through UnitedHealthcare (the same insurer who provides coverage for the HMO beneficiaries).

The “behind the scenes” problem with this change is that retirees were not informed that by enrolling in a Medicare Advantage Plan, they would lose “guaranteed issue” to future Supplement / Medigap policies. Guaranteed issue means that you have the right to buy a policy without medical underwriting, which can lead to denials of coverage or inflated prices based on age and health conditions. Another concern is that the new lower premiums, while attractive, are due to a temporary rate adjustment, and future costs may not remain low.

How might this affect you? Both our contracted outpatient services through OASIS and our Campus Home Health program accept Original Medicare but not Advantage Plans (HMOs or PPOs), with the exception of Home Health accepting UHC Community and UHC Dual Complete (AHCCCS). For example, if you are a retired teacher previously on the ASRS Senior Supplement Plan, you are now on a PPO Plan. You may have had physical therapy on campus as an outpatient, or through the campus Home Health service. Now, however, you will not be covered and will need to seek outpatient services off campus, and Home Health from an outside agency.

SHIP Medicare Counselors believe individuals can get better coverage at a better price by remaining on Original Medicare with a Supplement and Part D coverage. The new deadline to change your Medicare coverage from the new PPO to Original Medicare with a supplement is March 3rd, 2019.

If you are affected by this change, and wish to speak to a Medicare counselor about making a change, please let Josephine know no later than February 15th at x16117.

It’s the “Feeling”

Sun, December 23, 2018 Published by Beatitudes Campus

One of the most important aspects of why folks choose a lifeplan community is the environment. By that, I am not referring to the air quality or the paint color. It’s the “feeling” that they have when they come to campus and the sustained sense of inclusion and acceptance once they have moved here. Those of you who already live on campus are one of bedrock reasons decisions are made to live at Beatitudes Campus and you are additionally the cornerstone of continuing satisfaction and engagement.

I recently became aware of an NPR story about the influx of people who are choosing to retire in some of the highest growth areas of the country (Maricopa is the fastest-growth county in the nation, according to the U.S. Census data) and just this morning I heard that 200 people a day move here. The piece discussed several new senior living sites but also noted that continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs, or life plan communities) are still one of the strongest choices of all.

Beyond the details about the various options in Phoenix, there was something else about the NPR story that caught my attention.

“The last house I’m gonna have”

The reporter had interviewed a woman named Sara Klemmer, who currently lives in a thriving historic area of town. For Mrs. Klemmer, the decision to leave the neighborhood she loves makes sense financially and logically, but still, she says it’s been emotionally difficult. And the notion of joining a continuing care community is a psychological adjustment, too.

‘This is the last house I’m gonna have, the last apartment,’ Klemmer said. ‘You come face to face with your mortality.’”

In all honesty, I hear this sentiment a lot from people who are considering a move to a lifeplan community. At the heart of this and similar comments is the idea that, “I know I should do this—it makes sense in every aspect—but it’s the finality of it that is holding me back.”

There are four common refrains I often hear when it comes to seniors’ apprehension about a lifeplan community/CCRC move—the reasons that people give for not being “ready,” several of which were voiced or implied by Ms. Klemmer.

“I’m still active and independent.”

“I don’t want to leave my home.”

“Moving is too much of a headache.”

“I’m worried that I can’t afford to move to a Life Plan Community this early.”

All four of these reasons for putting off a Life Plan Community move (whether to a patio home, entry fee or rental apartment) or wavering about the decision to move are completely understandable. However, many of you analyzed your circumstances and came to some conclusions that are often pretty startling until you give them some thought.

Here are a few important points that we ask folks to weigh… and it is always of great benefit when we are able to ask so many of you to tell the story of how you came to your conclusions to move to the campus.

Choosing to “age in place,” instead of downsizing and moving to a Life Plan Community, likely is the easiest solution in the short-term. But should you experience a health setback in the future, this option may end up being not only physically challenging (especially if you do not have a bedroom and bathroom on the first floor of your home) but also costly (the current average cost of in-home care is around $4,000 per month. But this is based on just 6 hours of care per day. If you require more care, especially if it is 24-hour care, it could double or triple this amount.

Opting to remain in your home also can cause tremendous issues in the long-term for your adult children, who may end up dealing with the many challenges that come with caregiving for an elderly parent. This can be an especially difficult situation if your adult children live far away, have young children of their own to care for, or lack flexibility with their job.

The fact is, someone will have to sort through all of your belongings eventually—likely your adult children or another loved one. They will be forced to choose what to keep and what to give away or sell, pack and move everything, and then sell the home. It is a daunting task to put on someone else’s shoulders, both physically and emotionally.

Making the right choice for you

The sentiments expressed by Ms. Klemmer in the NPR story are extremely common. After all, moving out of a cherished home and into a Life Plan Community is a major life change. It would be concerning if a person had zero apprehensions about it!

But I can tell you this, having spoken with literally hundreds of Life Plan Community residents over the years: the vast majority of people who decide to move to a Life Plan Community are extremely happy they did. Yes, most residents say there was an adjustment period when they first moved in, but in the long run, the benefits of living in a Life Plan Community—including services, amenities, and a continuum of care services available onsite—far outweigh the inconveniences that come with downsizing and moving.

In many surveys, the number one reason given for delaying a decision about moving to a Life Plan Community was, “I don’t feel that I’m old enough yet.” Some who are well into their 80s even said this.

The idea that this will be your “final move” does force one to confront their own mortality, as Ms. Klemmer points out, and some people aren’t entirely comfortable with facing this reality. This fact may be at the heart of this common sentiment voiced in surveys that “I’m not old enough yet.”

However, what I hear from most residents is how glad they are that they moved earlier, rather than waiting until some unspecified time in the future when they felt “ready” or “old enough.” Moving sooner rather than later has given them the opportunity to build meaningful relationships with other residents, establishing a solid social and support network for the unknowns of the future (such as dealing with a health crisis or a partner’s passing). This ready-made support system, along with the peace of mind that comes with knowing your care needs will be met no matter what, is a compelling reason to put aside your trepidation and put the wheels into motion on making the move.

I’m happy to bring you up to date that we have a substantial number of planners getting ready to join us in the next year. We have contracted for 29 of the 34 new patio homes and have an additional two on hold! The campus mission marches on! Be sure to welcome your new neighbors as you see them at events and around campus. And don’t forget that there is a great resident referral bonus available to all of you who live on campus. Stop by the marketing office to get the details and your referral form!*

‘Tis a Gift

Sun, December 16, 2018 Published by Rev. David Ragan, Sr. VP Resident Services

Gifts arrive on birthdays, at Christmas, on Hanukkah, anniversaries, retirements and on so many other beautiful occasions throughout our life’s journey. We celebrate great events and individuals who are extra special to us by offering something of ourselves in the form of a gift that reflects our gratitude and appreciation. Some of you might have figured out that I try to send a birthday card of appreciation to all of you and begin writing them just before the new month. Not a card goes by that I do not find myself reflecting on what a gift to the Campus, and to me, the particular individual is to whom I am writing. We give gifts, but the greatest gift is not the gift itself but the giver and receiver themselves. They make for the true treasures in life. And, like all gifts, with time, they are all meant to be shared and that is what makes our Campus so beautiful. The sharing is abundant!

As the Holidays approach, and as much as gift giving is on many of our minds, it is a strange phenomenon whereby individuals forget just what an amazing gift they genuinely are. This time of the year can be especially painful for the ones who just cannot see the truth and beauty about themselves. In that we shine when it comes to gifts that keep on giving, I want to encourage you to make an extra special effort to keep an eye out for a neighbor who might very well be struggling and needing a special word or a little affirmation from you.

You are a gift! There might not be a more perfect time than now to share the gift you are by inviting someone you have not seen for a while to join you for dinner or a Campus event. Or when you notice that fellow resident a few tables down eating alone consider checking and seeing if they might be open to some company. They will be gifted by the amazing individual that is in you and I am willing to bet you will receive a beautiful gift in return in the gift they are as well.

It is every day of the year that Beatitudes Campus excels at sharing and caring for one another, but the Holidays allow us to be even more sensitive and compassionate creating a community where everybody belongs and is unmistakably valued.

You are a gift! And there is no greater gift than sharing yourself to uplift another. Enjoy the Holidays. *

Can You Catch the “Old Disease”?

Sun, July 22, 2018 Published by Beatitudes Campus

Brad Breeding of MyLifeSite spends a lot of time travelling around the country, speaking to groups of people about senior living options, including Life Plan Communities such as Beatitudes Campus. During his travels, he mentions that he’s fortunate to meet people who live in these communities, as well as people who may be considering a move to a Life Plan Community or other type of senior living community; it’s always eye-opening to hear the perspectives of both personas.

In conversations that I have with prospective residents, I sometimes hear people say that they are hesitant to move to a retirement community because they aren’t ready yet or don’t want to be around a bunch of “old people,” maybe because they saw a few of the residents using assistive devices, such as walkers or scooters.

I believe I understand the sentiments—conscious or subconscious—that they are voicing.

Lack of diversity vs. fear of aging

For some, what they may really be saying is that they prefer to live in an intergenerational environment, meaning a community with people of all different ages. That’s an understandable wish. Fortunately, even though by definition they are age-qualified, more and more senior living communities are developing intergenerational programs. These initiatives offer numerous benefits to both the residents and the younger generations involved in them.

But for many other seniors who say they don’t want to live with other older people, I can’t help but wonder if on some level, they are saying that they are worried about catching the “old disease.” I’ve even heard people well into their 80s and beyond express that they feel they are too young to move to such a community. Even if it is on a subconscious level, it’s as if they feel that if they’re around people who have experienced physical decline as a result of a health condition or the natural aging process, they too will become older and frailer—like a contagious disease.

A continued lifestyle

For seniors who voice concerns about living among “old people,” perhaps they’ve been fortunate enough to have lived a long and healthy life thus far by remaining active, eating well, AND staying young-at-heart. But does that mean being around other older adults will stifle that? In Brad’s experience visiting nearly a hundred Life Plan Communities, he states that he has not found much evidence of this.

“People who are active and have healthy habits when they move to a Life Plan Community or other senior living community are likely going to remain that way, if not more so. In fact, many residents feel they are far healthier and happier than they would have been otherwise. Are there exceptions? Sure, but in my conversations with Life Plan Community residents across the country I hear far more positives than negatives. This is due, in large part, to the wide variety of ways Life Plan Communities further enable and enhance this active lifestyle among their residents. From fitness classes and wellness centers to healthy menu options; from social gatherings and cultural excursions, to affinity groups and lifelong learning—there are countless (but of course, optional) ways to stay physically active and mentally engaged when you live in a Life Plan Community. Of course, residents are not restricted in any way from doing any of the same things they did previously, such as eating out, travelling, attending dinner parties with friends, etc.

So, for those seniors who are opposed to living in a Life Plan Community or other retirement community because they don’t want to be around other “older people”, isn’t this, on some level, ageism among peers? Or does it speak to a more deep-seated fear and/or disdain of aging that is common among Americans?”

Contempt for growing old

A 2013 Pew Research Center survey of more than 2,000 U.S. adults examined people’s views of aging, medical advancements, and life extension. While modern medicine is helping people live longer lives, not everyone views this as a good thing. When survey respondents were asked how long they would like to live:

Less than 10 percent of people were hoping to live to be 100 or older.

20 percent of respondents said they wanted to live into their 90s.

32 percent said they would like to live into their 80s.

30 percent of survey participants said they didn’t want to make it past 80.

Interestingly, on the flipside, this survey also revealed that 41 percent of respondents believed that “having more elderly people in the population” is a positive for society.

I find the results of this survey intriguing. Even though older adults are viewed as a positive force within our country, nearly two-thirds of people in this survey didn’t want to live to be 90. This seems like a fascinating paradox.

When looking at the results of the Pew survey, what I believe so many people are missing in this equation is that age truly is just a number. I do not mean to be naive or deny the changes that come with aging. The fact is that some people come to grips with the realities of aging better than others, but I’ve met many people in their 80s and 90s who are still as healthy and spry as someone three decades their junior. The one common denominator I have found among them is a positive attitude and outlook on life, regardless of the age or physical condition.

Here’s my question: Can we as a society get to a place where a person, regardless of age or physical condition, is embraced as a valuable individual, both for who they are and what they’ve done in life? Can we focus not on age, but on what we can learn from one another, and grow as individuals as a result of our shared experiences?*

Keep Learning, Growing and Living Better!

Sun, June 17, 2018 Published by Beatitudes Campus

Springtime means graduation season. There is a recent and growing trend among college graduates that is garnering a lot of attention. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, by 2020, 43 percent of college students are expected to be age 25 and older. And among these older grads are more and more seniors, who are embracing their love of lifelong learning.

You may have seen some of the recent news stories about older people who recently got their diplomas. ABC News highlighted Bob Barger, a WWII Navy pilot, who recently received his associate degree in technical studies from the University of Toledo in Ohio. After returning home from the war, he had dropped out of college to focus on his job and earning a living for his wife and two children.

CBS News shared the moving story of 89-year-old Ella Washington, who, after raising 12 children and putting in a lifetime of hard work, recently completed her associate degree in interdisciplinary studies from Liberty University in Virginia. She’s already begun work on her bachelor’s degree, majoring in history.

Bob and Ella are just two of the many older people who are taking advantage of the free time that retirement offers to pursue their education and learn more about subjects they are passionate about. And studies show that the benefits of seniors’ pursuit of lifelong learning are abundant.

Learning something new, such as a new skill or hobby, can help boost your memory. Neuroscientists at the University of Texas at Dallas conducted a study that found seniors who took on a new mentally challenging hobby saw a lasting increase in their memory skills. These researchers believe that taking on a new challenging activity—like learning to quilt, play an instrument, or operate a computer, for example—strengthens numerous networks within the brain.

A research study conducted by neurologists at Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland found that engaging in a lifelong pursuit of mentally challenging activities may actually help prevent Alzheimer’s disease. The study found that seniors who frequently read, played mentally challenging games like chess, or engaged in other intellectually stimulating activities are 2.5 times less likely to have Alzheimer’s, which impacts approximately 4 million Americans.

Pursuing lifelong learning activities has benefits that go beyond boosting your brain power. Cognitive neuropsychologists at the University of Sussex in England did a study that found that reading for even just six minutes lowered study participants’ stress levels, slowing their heart rates and easing tension in their muscles. And lower stress has wide ranging benefits for seniors’ cardiovascular health, decreasing blood pressure and reducing the risk of a stroke or heart attack, boosting immunity, and lowering levels of depression.

But researchers at Harvard and Princeton had even more impressive findings in their research on the connection between lifelong learning and health. The study authors found that one more year of education increased life expectancy by 0.18 years. They discovered that the more educated a person, the lower their rates of anxiety and depression, as well as the most common acute and chronic diseases (heart disease, stroke, hypertension, high cholesterol, emphysema, diabetes, asthma, ulcer), and they were far less likely to report that they were in overall poor health.

Now, there is a “chicken or egg” debate on whether the increased level of education caused these positive health results, or if the people who were healthier (perhaps based on lifestyle factors like drinking, smoking, eating habits, etc., or the impact of their economic standing) were simply more likely to pursue educational opportunities, but the findings are still significant.

There are numerous lifelong learning opportunities available to seniors. I’m proud to remind everyone reading this article, whether you are a campus resident, seeing it online or considering Beatitudes for yourself or your loved one, that we have an outstanding, resident-run LifeLong Learning program on campus with dozens of classes offered each year and a strong games program matching residents interests in not only bridge and Mahjong, but also a host of others.

Beyond that, if you’re looking to take up a new intellectually stimulating hobby like quilting or painting, contact our Life Enrichment department to see what groups are currently available. The Library, which is managed by the Beatitudes Campus Auxiliary, is another great resource—providing not only a treasure trove of mentally stimulating books, but also offering opportunities to serve other campus residents by volunteering.

One of the many advantages of living in a senior living community, such as a Life Plan Community (formerly CCRC) like Beatitudes Campus, is the array of activities and events offered to residents. Knowing the many benefits to their residents’ mental and physical health, Beatitudes Campus in particular puts an emphasis on lifelong learning opportunities. From guest speakers to art classes to affinity groups like chess, bridge, and book clubs, we are proud to provide their residents with numerous ways to keep their minds active, all in a close-to-home location.

Courses include everything from literature, history, and creative writing, to art and music appreciation, philosophy, and current events.

Whether you are interested in getting educated on a new subject or acquiring a new skill, there are near-countless ways that lifelong learning benefits seniors. So why not challenge yourself and try something new? It’s a lifestyle choice that’s good for your mind, which in turn is good for your health!*

Make Life Good

Mon, January 22, 2018 Published by Rev. David Ragan, Sr. VP Resident Services

How’s life? I hope so very good. Did you know, though, that just a few years back a national survey discovered that the number of retirees who say their retirement is “very satisfying” has dropped nearly 13% in the last decade and below the 50% level for the first time? Theories are being generated as to why. Some suggest it is for financial reasons and more prevalent theories deduce that is comes from the yearning for more and varied activities than is often available to them.

An article from the website MarketWatch has some excellent advice on how to make life good. Most of you know this all too well, but I wanted to share some of it so as to affirm your excellent instincts.

Stay socially connected. Keeping up with old friends and making new ones is extremely vital to one’s emotional outlook – your mental health. New friends often open our minds to new thoughts and new experiences. There is not a better set up than the Beatitudes community for that. Consider joining someone you do not know for lunch or dinner, or greeting and talking with a neighbor you have never really spent time with. Don’t forget the New Neighbor Welcome Coffee every 4th Community Wednesday either. Meet them right off the bat.

Find things you love to do. Research shows that the happiest retirees are those who keep themselves busy. Another researcher and author notes that, “Following your interests and passions can add years to your life, and joy to your golden years.” Think about those things that have brought you joy over the years of your life and do them again. There probably was never a good reason to stop doing them anyway other than life got too busy. Beatitudes has nearly 100 groups and activities taking place right now, and if per chance not a one of those is your passion, let us know and we will make it happen and bet others will want to be part of it too. We will get you the list if the Beatitudes Calendar does not have something calling out to you today.

Plan the use of your time. Rob Pascale, a psychologist and the co-author of “The Retirement Maze,” cautions that “without adequate planning, you have a lack of structure, and that can make you feel you have little personal control over your life.” Write out your goals for each day, week or month. Plan out your participation with a good number of those over 100 groups and activities.

The article concludes with something that all of us know and that is, if we create the expectations for happiness and joy the more likely we will meet or exceed them.

So let’s plan on it. Make life good, beginning today and every day.

When to Get on the Wait List

Mon, January 8, 2018 Published by Beatitudes Campus

Someone stopped me in the Bistro the other day and told me he often uses the articles that I have been putting in the Roadrunner to share with friends who are considering a move to Beatitudes Campus. That was a much appreciated compliment and it occurred to me today (New Year’s..) one of those reflective times when I am thinking of a lot of plans for 2018) that it might be worthwhile for all of you to have a bit of a tool to use when speaking to family or friends about their potential move to our Life Plan Community.

That’s really one of the best points – “Life Plan.” When you made the decision to live at Beatitudes, you did yourself the favor of taking one of the most important steps in planning for your “senior” years. If your friend or a loved one is considering their senior living options, they likely have begun doing research on retirement communities. With all of the choices available, it can be a lot to take in so the decision process can take some time, depending on the situation. Some senior living decisions are needs-based and move much quicker, while others are more preference-based and can take months or even years.

The timing conundrum

Ideally, one should not wait until the day they need to move to begin planning. If for no other reason, this can be problematic because of the very subject I am addressing here—there could be a wait list for the living setting you prefer. But one of the challenges of planning ahead for long term care housing needs is that it can be hard to foresee exactly when you will need it. It could happen slowly with the natural aging process or the progression of a degenerative disease, or it can occur quickly with an illness or injury. So it is advisable to get on the waiting list if you are looking at the Beatitudes for yourself or a family member; this way, when the time comes and your house sells or situation changes, you will hopefully be near the top of the list and, most importantly, you will be able to enjoy the many, many benefits of independent living on the campus while you can.

We are taking reservations right now for the new patio homes that we’ve announced and will begin “pre-sales” (deposits) in mid-February. Our priority program has reached 56 members with 47 who have paid their initial placeholder deposit for a chance at one of our 34 patio homes. One of the additional benefits that has also occurred during the last few months as we have presented the opportunity to hundreds of interested prospects has been that some are deciding to move into our present residences rather than wait! If your friends or family are eyeing a continuing care retirement community (CCRC, also known as a Life Plan Community) another consideration is that many communities require new residents be able to “walk in,” that is, they must be relatively able-bodied when they first move to the community. In fact, many Life Plan Communities have a very active base of residents such as we do who live independently today, but want to be someplace where care is available to them on-site when needed. Most Life Plan Communities maintain an assisted living and/or health care center in addition to offering independent living such as Beatitudes Campus. We are blessed to have such highly rated licensed care options here for eventual needs as well as supplemental care options (Beatitudes Home Health and Beatitudes at Home) to extend independence.

How waiting lists work

Many Life Plan Communities have wait lists—yet, these lists are not necessarily just for assisted living or skilled nursing. When applicable, wait lists are often also associated with an independent living residence. When adding your name to a wait list, you’ll typically specify which type of unit you desire, e.g., a patio home, one or two-bedroom apartment, etc. When a resident in your desired unit type moves out (often because their needs have progressed and they are transferring into the on-site assisted living or healthcare facility) then the unit becomes available to you.

Once you’re on the wait list, retirement communities may offer a variety of perks to future residents—maybe unlimited use of their pool and exercise facility, or access to other community events and activities. We have begun our L.A.F.F. (Lifestyle, Activities, Fun and Friendship) Club to facilitate that very type of relationship to the campus. In fact, a growing number of Life Plan Communities are beginning to call their wait list a “membership” just like ours. I would encourage residents-to-be to take advantage of this benefit as it allows you to begin the process of assimilating into the community and meeting future neighbors, even before you live there. We do have some club members who have not put their names on the wait list, but many do so in order to have good familiarity with the campus when the time is right.

It is also good to be aware that some communities will have an internal waiting list such as we do. If you find yourself in a situation where you need (or want) to move into the community and your preferred unit is not available—forcing you to settle for your second or third choice–you can go ahead and move in but stay on the internal list and wait for your desired unit-type to open up. Existing residents will typically get priority over non-residents, so you may be able to get your preference more quickly. Adding your name to the waiting list is one of the ways you can plan for your future. This step can give you and your loved ones a level of security, knowing that you will be well-cared for in the future.

Remember that, as a Beatitudes resident, if you refer a prospect who becomes a priority program member, you’ll earn $100. If that prospect does sign a residency contract and move into Central Park or a Patio Home, you’ll receive a $1,000 bonus after they have lived on campus for four months. Your second successful referral is worth $1250 and the third earns $1500 – that’s a possibility of $3750 a year! The only requirements are that the prospect is not already in our marketing database and that you do register the name with the sales staff prior to their initial tour.

These are indeed exciting times here and we are equally as excited to see all of the progress being made!

Why do you choose to live at Beatitudes?

Mon, October 16, 2017 Published by Beatitudes Campus

We were meeting with a group recently about why Beatitudes Campus would be a good match for the expectations that they have in their senior years. I was reminded of an event we held in Elaine’s about a year ago, when I interviewed a panel of residents who had already made the choice to live here, and Bill Wallace’s words came to mind about the pool at the home that he had sold. He characterized it as a very pretty hole in his back yard into which he threw money. I loved repeating that story, albeit I’m not sure I can tell it with the same humor as Bill, and familiarizing the group with the maintenance free living that is a part of Beatitudes Campus living. The expense to fix unanticipated – and often costly – problems that can occur from faulty home fixtures, systems and/or materials is eliminated. When you move into a Life Plan Community, all internal and external repair and maintenance is included in your one convenient monthly fee. According to a recent article on gobankingrates.com, the average monthly cost to maintain and repair the average American home is $1,126, or $13,512 annually.

Life Plan Communities (alternately known as Continuing Care Retirement Communities—CCRCs) are staffed 24/7 so you don’t have to worry about being without help should you need it. It’s always a pleasure to inform groups like this and the general Phoenix community that our security staff is trained in life saving skills such as CPR and first aid and prepared and ready to assist if an emergency should occur. We were the pilot site for the RiteCare Foundation in 2013 and remain among only a few communities who have chosen to be accredited as having a sufficient number of certified personnel trained and available 24 hours a day to deliver immediate resuscitation campus wide in the event of sudden cardiac arrest among a number of situations that might occur. I sure love bragging about our security staff!

But one of the biggest aspects that we are proud to discuss is the value of staying socially connected and how that is a part of the fabric of Beatitudes Campus. Life in a life plan community/continuing care retirement community provides countless opportunities to cultivate friendships and close social connections. This becomes increasingly important as we grow older and face a variety of circumstances that may trigger isolation and loneliness. A recent study conducted by Age Wave, “Five Myths & Realities of CCRCs” reported that low social interaction is as bad for seniors’ health as smoking 15 cigarettes a day, is as dangerous as being an alcoholic, is as harmful as never exercising, and is twice as dangerous as obesity. The study further reinforced the reality that campuses such as Beatitudes offer opportunities to build new relationships and social connections with like-minded people.

As many of you know, when matched against the monthly expenses of maintaining your home and lifestyle, the cost of a life plan community can actually prove to be more economical. This is a message that we are excited to deliver in many media avenues as we begin promotion for the new patio homes project. Watch various newspaper publications, television and websites as we move forward with our exciting first step in campus redevelopment and don’t forget that our Friends and Family Resident Referral Program is still going on—amounts have been expanded and also anyone you refer for the Priority Program for the patio homes who, becomes a BeVIP Club member, earns you $100!

I listened to one of our resident ambassadors tell our prospects at a “Navigating the Waters” event (yes, they got me to wear a captain’s hat) that life in a life plan community gives you time to actively pursue the interests and hobbies that give you happiness and fulfillment. You no longer need to worry about cleaning the house, mowing the lawn, or trimming the bushes. Life Plan Communities are designed to relieve residents of these burdens precisely so they can enjoy time with friends and family and pursue the many social and recreational opportunities that are available inside and outside of the retirement community. So remember, now that you live at Beatitudes Campus, if you’ve always wanted to write a book, paint a masterpiece, research your family tree, or any of a myriad of other pursuits—NOW is your time! I’m certain there is a group that you can plug into that will suit you. Enjoy and BE Inspired (you’re going to see that new phrase and logo a lot soon—stay tuned!).

Keeping Older Adults Connected to Community

Mon, August 21, 2017 Published by Beatitudes Campus

The word “community” is a tricky term to pin down nowadays. Members of a Facebook group may have never met in real life and consider their digital interactions, wherein they’ve never heard each other’s voice, to have communal components. And residents of a large apartment building might be part of a community, although their only interactions with neighbors are awkward silences in the elevator, or a nod as they pass each other in the hallway. In senior living communities, the term means something very different.

One can think about a retirement community in its most basic form: a roof, four walls and many resident apartments and rooms in various buildings with a lot of furniture. But the people who make up a community make it much more than just a roof over residents’ heads. There are the residents, their families and the employees. As I leaf through some photos from holiday parties at previous communities at which I have served as well as those at Beatitudes Campus, I’m struck by how many employees brought their own children and other loved ones into the communities to celebrate the holidays.

That sort of interconnectedness reflects what Beatitudes Campus is all about: the people. Connectedness is about people. When prospective residents come to visit the campus, the most common things they ask are whether the community is right for them and, if would it be OK if they talk to other residents. We actively encourage prospective residents to get to know the people who live at the campus by sharing a meal, going shopping or just hanging out together over coffee. It’s kind of like dating. You can tell after half an hour or so if the person on the other end of the table, or beside you at the bar, is someone you want to go out with again or hang out with as friends.

Feel the energy of connectedness. In my 25 years working in aging services, I’ve noticed something about senior living communities. You can feel the energy of the community – or the lack thereof – very quickly. Are people active and engaged? I’ve seen enough to know that when that energy and activity are present, it’s very likely due to the cultivating efforts of the senior management and the staff. When they hold this value high, they can facilitate a great energy and sense of interconnectedness. How proud I am to know that is a core value and a daily determined effort by not only our life enrichment department, but of the campus as a whole—staff and residents alike.

The wisdom of staying connected? That interconnectedness not only makes residents feel more comfortable and engaged, it also has tremendous health benefits. When residents were surveyed who are at least 100 years old for the e-book “100 Years of Wisdom: The Perspective of Centenarians,” many of the centenarians cited their marriages and their relationships with family and friends as factors in their longevity. Of course, there were differences; some centenarians felt that abstaining from alcohol and smoking helped them live very long lives, while others swore by the efficacy of their regular whiskeys. But the benefits of communal living and close relationships were a common benefit that was cited frequently.

Most people want to feel a sense of belonging and satisfaction in finding their purpose and meaning. And many residents of senior living communities find that sense of belonging amongst their peers who are all living together within a common context and vision.
As aging takes place, we may find it harder to remove ourselves from our comfort zone. Meeting new people and welcoming them into one’s life can be stressful and difficult even under the best of circumstances. But as people age, they refine and fine-tune their emotional intelligence. In a community where members bring long lives full of wisdom and experience, a lot of great ideas and stories are sure to get shared.

Staying connected doesn’t mean loss of privacy. And, of course, there’s no pressure. Residents have their own living spaces. They can choose to stay in their apartments and read a book, or they can meet a small group of friends in a community room, or invite them over for coffee. They can be as active as they want to be.

As we near the end of another fiscal year here at the campus, I’ve been thinking about how Valen-tine’s Day falls in February. Wouldn’t the day celebrating love and warm connections make more sense in the spring or summer? Irrespective, what is great to know is that no matter what point on the calendar, whatever sort of relationship or friendship residents are looking for, the key is to feel part of a larger community, where they can feel comfortable, safe and appreciated and where, as my friend Rev. Jerry Roseberry often quips, “to have a great third act.”

A Legacy of Rich History

Mon, July 24, 2017 Published by Beatitudes Campus

Yvonne Olivier Bechet, 83, was one of the first women to pass through the New Orleans Police Department’s academy. She describes how the stigma against women at the time challenged her just as much as the rigorous physical requirements she faced, but she kept her drive. After 22 years on the force, Bechet retired in 1990 as assistant superintendent. She now looks back fondly on the experience that she said made her feel like a superwoman.

“We’ve all been given life, and in living it, you have a story,” Bechet said.

I recently read about how Bechet told that story to an interviewer, as part of a national project to hear from retirement community residents and to record tales of their lives. It reminded me of some coffee table books that Rosey and I bought a number of years ago that were about “A Day in the Life of America.” There was actually a huge amount of history behind most of the pictures. It led me to think about the incredible histories that I hear as we meet many prospects considering a move to Beatitudes Campus.

A few years ago, a wonderful history of many Beatitudes Campus of Care (as it was then known) was published called Goals, Gumption and Grit. I know that often those with a fascinating history are most excited to hear the stories of the other residents with whom they live. One resident recently told me, “That’s a lesson in itself, that we can all learn from each other still.”

I also read about a project, called “These Eyes Have Seen,” that was started by a senior living organization in Florida and it made me think about all of the rich histories that I have been privileged to hear throughout my career. Are there those of you who would be willing to share some of your stories that we could publish as we prepare for a new business year starting in October? Watch for an announcement – we will be putting together a jazz brunch and photo shoot in the fall where we will record the stories that made you who you are. I wanted to give you an advance notice so that you can begin to think how you’d like share your narrative and then we’ll formulate the interviews.

Thanks again for the opportunity to share a bit of life together. I am indeed a far richer man than I deserve for the wisdom that has been shared with me over my career in senior living. My job has allowed me to meet seniors who have traveled the world, penned calligraphy for the White House and captained steamboats without ever learning to swim. I’ve met someone who came to Phoenix on an “orphan train”, one lady that as a child she didn’t know butter was a solid (think about that one – pre-refrigeration), the stories of the first two women members of the Arizona legislature and the friendship they extended to me imparting behind the scenes, unique perspectives and a Basque sheepherder who detailed for me the path from the high country down the Mogollon Rim to the valley and how it all meshed together with emerging urbanization. I have been so amazed by the American and Arizona history I’ve been able to experience first-hand.

I can’t wait for the weather to cool and we’ll get outside for this event to again showcase what I believe is one of the most fulfilling life plan communities anywhere!

Plan Now to Make More Possible Tomorrow

Mon, January 2, 2017 Published by Barbara Wood

Happy New Year to all of you – residents, staff, partners! This is the time of year when we are more mindful about reflecting on our life and our world. New Year’s reflections often remind us to do more of what works – the right things – and less of what doesn’t work.

We now have turned the page on 2016 and are ready to begin a new chapter. With a new year also comes new resolve to think about tomorrow today. What are we truly passionate about? How can we make a difference? How can we be better servant leaders? What organizations or causes do we care about to devote our personal resources of money, time and energy? The list of projects and endeavors we want to be involved in is probably long and varied, but making such a list will help us to think about where we want to place our energy and resources.

You – the residents, staff, family and friends – devote much time, talent and treasure to Beatitudes Campus, through your volunteering, leadership and charitable gifts to many of the campus initiatives, to programs and to the Resident Assistance Fund. I am humbled by your generosity. Thank you!

The start of a new year can also be a signal for us to begin to make plans for future charitable gifts. With a planned gift, you can create a lasting legacy of support and help the campus continue to provide excellent opportunities and services for generations to come. Every day, Beatitudes Campus, along with our residents and friends, are expanding the boundaries of what’s possible through programs that connect us through our mind, body and spirit. We support programs that exercise our minds as well as our bodies, and programs that help us to expand our campus into the community. One of the driving forces behind these programs is you. You make things possible today, and tomorrow, with planned charitable giving. Planning now makes more possible tomorrow.

There are many different types of planned giving options. You can help ensure the future of Beatitudes Campus programming and innovation in a way that works for you. Cash contributions are always appreciated, and there are other creative and flexible options that can benefit you and Beatitudes Campus. There are many ways to make a significant impact through a planned gift – you can consider making a gift that costs nothing in your lifetime through a charitable bequest under your will or trust, or by beneficiary designation. An easy way to include Beatitudes Campus in your estate plan is to name Beatitudes Campus Foundation as a beneficiary of your donor advised fund, retirement plan, IRA or life insurance policy. Planned gifts can also give back—and can help you prepare for your future. They can provide income for you and your loved ones for life. They can also allow you to take income, gift and estate tax deductions and can provide favorable capital gains tax treatment. Planned gifts allow you to leave a legacy for future generations.

All people who have made a bequest or other type of planned gift are invited to join the Culver H. Nelson Founder’s Society at Beatitudes Campus. It’s our way of recognizing you and thanking you for your generosity and for ensuring the future success of Beatitudes Campus. If you have made such a gift, we want to know and recognize you, so please let me know. Throughout the next year, we will offer some workshops on gift planning to help you with your options. In the meantime, I’d love to talk to you. Of course, you will want to talk to your financial or tax adviser also. Feel free to stop by and talk with me about any kind of charitable giving. Please contact me in the Foundation Office (x16136 or stop by the South building – our office is next to Oasis Therapy).

So, let’s turn the page to our next chapter. Exciting possibilities await in 2017!

‘Tis A Gift

Mon, November 28, 2016 Published by Rev. David Ragan, Sr. VP Resident Services

Gifts arrive on birthdays, at Christmas, on Hanukkah, anniversaries, retirements and on so many other beautiful occasions throughout our life’s journey. We celebrate great events and individuals who are extra special to us by offering something of ourselves in the form of a gift that reflects our gratitude and appreciation. Some of you might have figured out that I try to send a birthday card of appreciation to all of you and begin writing them just before the new month. Not a card goes by that I do not find myself reflecting on what a gift to the Campus, and to me, the particular individual is to whom I am writing. We give gifts, but the greatest gift is not the gift itself but the giver and receiver themselves. They make for the true treasures in life. And like all gifts, with time, they are all meant to be shared and that is what makes our Campus so beautiful. The sharing is abundant!

As the Holidays approach, and as much as gift giving is on many of our minds, it is a strange phenomenon whereby individuals forget just what an amazing gift they genuinely are. This time of the year can be especially painful for the one who just cannot see the truth and beauty about themselves. In that we shine when it comes to gifts that keep on giving, I want to encourage you to make an extra special effort to keep an eye out for a neighbor who might very well be struggling and needing a special word or a little affirmation from you.

Tag: retirement