zest Sept 2010

Last Word:Cushman crowd fondof its scooters

The Right Move A guide to residential living

September 2010

Out and About:A day at the fair

FDownsizingA full life with lessfor Orv andHarriet Kuiken

esTZ50+ Living

2 ZEST / September 2010

BEFORE

AFTER

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ZEST / September 2010 3

Contents

An age of options

Eggs or cereal? Go out or stay in?Spend or save?

Decisions rule our lives. Everystep we take in life began with adecision. Some are as simple aschoosing what to eat for breakfast.Others have a significant impact onour lives for years to come.

Many people face one of theirtoughest decisions later in life – tostay in their own homes or move toa housing facility. This edition ofZest offers resources and informa-tion for wading through the manyliving options available and sur-mounting the hurdles associatedwith moving.

From an assisted living home todownsized condo living selecting thehousing style right for you and yourneeds is more complicated than it

was for previous generations. In thespecial residential living guide readthrough a summary of the housingoptions available.

One type of residence rising inpopularity is condominium commu-nities. Hutchinson residents Harrietand Orv Kuiken, and El Donna andWillmar Harbarth have transitionedfrom a single family home to acondo. In “A full life with less,” bothcouples pointed to the maintenance-free lifestyle, convenient locationand community atmosphere asendorsements for condo living.

Also in this edition for a bit ofadded spice is “Cushman crowd fondof their scooters” – a story about aMeeker County Cushman Scooterclub. Members of the club hosted astate-wide event that took scooter-enthusiast around the lakes andtowns of central Minnesota.

Also in this edition are photos

from the Meeker County Fair. And ifyou haven’t noticed our recipe con-test, turn to page 20 to learn howyou could win a $25 prize by sub-mitting your favoriterecipe.

As always I wel-come your feedbackand ideas. If you havean idea for a story orjust general com-ments, then pleasesend them to me. Youcan reach me via email [email protected] or bysending a letter to HutchinsonLeader C/O Katie Winter, 36Washington Ave. W., Hutchinson,MN 55350 or 217 N. Sibley Ave.Litchfield, MN 55355.

Until next time, happy reading.

Katie Winter

5 Calendar: State Parks teeming with activities

6-19 SPECIAL SECTION: The Right Move, a Guide to Residential Living

8 FEATURE STORY: A full life with less

12 Residential Living: Exploring a retirement community

13 Residential Living: Make safety a priority

14 Residential Living: Index of advertisers

20 Comfort Foods: Chill out with cool cuisine

22 Out and About: A day at the Meeker County Fair

23 Ask Marci: Is my therapy covered?

24 Wellness: Vitamin E supplements and diabetes

30 Last Word: Cushman crowd fond of their scooters

September2010

Vol. 1 No. 7esTZ

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8

30


Opinion

PUBLISHED BY

Litchfield Independent ReviewPO Box 921

Litchfield, MN 55355(320) 693-3266

Hutchinson Leader36 Washington Ave. W.Hutchinson, MN 55350

(320) 587-5000

NEWS

ADVERTISING

Crow River Press170 Shady Ridge Road NW

Hutchinson, MN 55350(320) 587-2062

Katie Winter, [email protected] or [email protected](320) 693-3266 or (320) 234-4172

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esTZ

Shari Forsman, advertising [email protected]

(320) 234-4171

PRINTED BY

Monuments and More!

Darwin Monument320-693-5902

East Highway 12, Darwin, MNdarwinmonument.com

020

75

By Matilda CharlesIt’s hard enough that we work to pay off our homes so

that we won’t have that payment at retirement, but nowthere’s a scam targeting some seniors who’ve done justthat.

Here’s how it works: When you have a mortgage, theDeed of Trust paperwork is recorded with the local countyrecorder. When a mortgage is paid off, a reconveyancedeed is filed by the trustee or title company with thatsame recorder’s office and the original is sent to you with-in 30 or 60 days. The paperwork says you’ve paid off yourmortgage. Except for property taxes (and maybe condofees) you don’t owe anybody anything on your home.

That reconveyance deed is extremely important.Without it, you can’t prove that you own your home.

Knowing that, here come the scammers. A number ofseniors have received in the mail official-looking docu-ments saying that their reconveyance deed is not on file.For a “small” fee, of course, they can fix the situation andensure that a copy is filed.

Nowadays it’s easy to get information online, and that’slikely where the scammers are getting it. No doubt they’relooking at the exact reconveyance deed online when theynote your name and address and send you mail saying

that deed is missing.If you receive official-looking mail saying that your

reconveyance deed is not filed, do not send any money tohave someone else take care of it for you. Hunt up yourown original and call the county recorder’s office. Asksomeone there to verify that your deed is copied or notedin the files.

I remember when people use to have deed-burning par-ties. The paid-off deed was incinerated in the barbecuegrill in the backyard and a good time was had by all. Itprobably was never a good idea to do that.

– King Features Syndicate Inc.

Paid-off mortgage draws scammers


Calendar

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Create new memories!

Church Basement Ladies:

Nov. 11 & 30, 2010

A Country Christmas & Lights Tour:

Sat., Dec. 4, 2010

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Scott NokesReg. Paralegal

Lenore FlinnAttorney at Law

B.S. Nursing

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Aug. 28: Lives and Legends From 7 to 8 p.m., join David Berg, storyteller, naturalist

and historian at Charles A. Lindbergh State Park as hetells the dramatic stories of legends from Minnesota andAmerica, including John James Audubon, JonathanCarver, Zebulon Pike and James J. Hill.

Sept. 3: Two Wheel Tour From 10 a.m. to noon at Fort Snelling State Park, par-

take in a nine mile bike ride past waterfalls, Dakota vil-lages, military camps and old railroads. Bikes are available.Reservations required, call (612) 725-2724.

Sept. 3-6: Dassel Red Rooster Days Celebrate Labor Day weekend with ambassadors coro-

nation, parade and Minnesota’s largest chicken barbecue.

Sept. 5: Antique Train Ride An antique train ride tour of the St. Croix Valley is set

for 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at William O’Brien State Park.The tour includes a mile walk to the train tracks beforedeparting to Osceola and Dresser, Wis. The cost is $15 foradults, $10 for kids younger than 16, and childrenyounger than 4 ride free.

Sept. 10: Astronomy in the Park From 8:30 to 10 p.m. at Lake Maria State Park near

Monticello, join University of Minnesota graduate studentsfor an evening of night sky viewing. Telescopes will be avail-able.

Sept. 25: Voyageur encampment re-enactmentWant to learn more about the voyageurs who were the

truck drivers of the fur trade era? Then from 9 a.m. to 4p.m. visit William O’Brien State Park near Stillwater as theNeebing Brigade and the La Compagnie Brigade re-enactthe voyageur life in 1700s.

Sept. 28: McLeod County Senior ExpoThe Senior Expo is at the Hutchinson Event Center

and brings people together to learn about available com-munity programs and resources, and to network.

Oct. 9: Fall Color Walk at Sibley State Park Walk with a naturalist along a wooded trail from 2 to 3

p.m. in Sibley State Park north of Willmar to learn howsunlight, temperature, soil and leaves work together to pro-duce fall colors.

State Parks teeming with activities


RESIDENTIAL LIVING GUIDE



Options aplentyRetirees have an abundance of retirementliving choices, but which is right for you?Welcome to Zest’s first special residential living

guide. We’re pleased to bring you this uniqueinsight into the housing options older adults have

at their fingertips in McLeod and Meeker counties. This plethora of options is a good thing because accord-

ing to the 2010 Del Webb Baby Boomer Survey, babyboomers are still willing to move to a new place when theyretire. Del Webb has conducted 10 baby boomer surveyssince 1996 seeking to better understand the attitudes andopinions of this generation.

This year, the survey found that nearly a third of olderbaby boomers plan to move in retirement, with more than50 percent planning to move to a different state, about 25percent of them planning to move to a different city with-in the same state, and less than 20 percent of olderboomers planning to move within the same city.

Additionally, the desire to move during retirement is onthe rise among today’s younger boomers surveyed, with 42percent of those turning 50 in 2010 planning to do so, ascompared to 36 percent among 50 year-olds in 1996.

With so many older adults on the move choosing theperfect retirement community is more important thanever, and there are many things that you will need to con-sider. Your decision involves more than just choosingbetween retirement condos or assisted living facilities.There is the proximity to your children to consider andthe letting go of decades worth of accumulated belongings.

On the following pages, learn how two local coupleshandled the transition from single family home to a condocommunity, pick up tips for sorting through the assortedboxes and closets in your house, and which questions toask when touring an assisted living facility.

A good place to start your decision-making process iswith what type of retirement living you would like. Thefollowing paragraphs summarize a few of the options outthere.

• The Independent Living Community The independent living retirement community is best

suited for retirees that are completely able to take care ofthemselves and maintain an active lifestyle. This type offacility will usually have numerous social activitiesplanned for the residents such as trips, parties and agames night. The independent living community providesmany bonuses to people living here, such as many ameni-ties including lawn maintenance, trash removal, andlaundry service.

• The Assisted Living Community The assisted living retirement community provides liv-

ing accommodations for people needing facilities betweenthe Independent Living Community and a NursingFacility. It is for those retirees that need a helping handwith meals, dressing, or daily cleaning but are still able totake care of themselves. Housing in an assisted livingcommunity can range from small cottages to grand scalehousing facility.

• Nursing Facility Some retirement communities are strictly nursing facili-

ties. They will include a fulltime 24-hour nursing staff onsite that can dispense medication. Nursing facilities usu-ally provide assistance with daily eating, bathing, anddressing as well. Most of the social activities for nursinghome residents are very light activities such as cards orbingo.

• Home-based Services These include a range of personal, support, and health

services provided to individuals in their homes or commu-nities to help them stay at home and live as independent-ly as possible. Most people receive assistance in the formof companionship, caregiving or homemaking.

– EscapeHomes.com

STAFF PHOTO BY KATIE WINTER

Orv and Harriet Kuiken were one of the first to move to the Community of Lakeridge. Harriet said the transi-tion has freed them from many home maintenance tasks and introduced them to new friends and experi-ences.


A full life with lessDownsizing, moving yielded richer lives

for two Hutchinson couples


By Katie Winter

When El DonnaHarbarth 71, andher husband

Willmar, 77, began to dreadthe prospect of anotherlong Minnesota winter ofshoveling snow and travel-ing icy roads, they decidedto make their move.

They’d been thinking ofdownsizing to a more main-tenance free home for thepast year and the tiring ofsnow removal, lawn mow-ing and home repairs toldthem it was the right timefor the transition.

The Harbarths movedinto Hutchinson’sGreencastle CondominiumsRetirement Community inApril after selling theirhouse on Lake Hook.

“The snow last winter,”ElDonna said with a shake ofher head. “You’d get itcleaned off one day and thenext day you were outthere again. You do thatthree times a week it gets alittle sickening. We decidedwe didn’t want lawn to cutand snow to clean up.”

Harriet and Orv Kuikentoo realized that the timefor a change had come. TheKuikens, in their mid-80s,also were weary of homemaintenance. In 2006, theymoved into the Communityof Lakeridge onHutchinson’s south side.

“We like the arrange-ment of this,” Harriet said.“The ease, the chance to bewith others if you care to beand it’s so convenient.”

These two couples’ situa-tions are examples of theimpact an aging society ishaving on the housing mar-ket. The population is gray-ing and a surge of babyboomers require a new slewof living options.

By the numbersDuring the coming

decade, the number ofMinnesotans ages 55 to 69is projected to grow by239,000, accounting foralmost half of the total pop-ulation growth.

“We have been predictingthis for a long time, andnow it’s here,” said MarthaMcMurry, a research ana-lyst at the StateDemographic Center.

McMurry said the agingtrend has many implica-tions for state and localgovernments, businessesand individuals. Healthcare costs will continue tobe a major issue.Employers will need to hireand train new employees toreplace the large number ofretirees. Also as boomers

retire and their incomesdecrease, income tax rev-enues may have troublekeeping pace with thedemand for services.

The percentage ofMinnesota residents 60-and-over in 2000 was 15.7,according to theAdministration on Aging.By 2030, the 60-and-overpopulation is projected togrow to 24 percent from772,278 in 2000 to a pro-jected 1,513,660 in 2030.

While Minnesotans ages25 to 44 is projected to onlyclimb slightly from1,499,530 in 2010 to1,570,210 in 2035, accord-ing to the StateDemographic Center.

Meeker and McLeod

counties won’t be immuneto the changes.

The number of 65-and-overs in McLeod Countywill jump to 77.1 percentfrom 5,320 in 2010 to 9,420in 2030. In Meeker Countythe 65-and-older populationwill surge to 70.8 percentfrom 4,080 in 2010 to 6,970in 2030.

With this population shiftcomes a demand for adiverse range of housingoptions for those older thanage 55.

Abundance of optionsMany central Minnesota

counties have been progres-sive in the development ofliving options for its older


STAFF PHOTO BY KATIE WINTER

El Donna Harbarth and her husband Willmar moved into GreencastleCondominiums in April. During the move they parted with half of their belongings,which El Donna said she has not missed.



residents. From condo com-munities and assisted liv-ing facilities to seniorapartments and nursinghomes, the area is rich withhousing possibilities.

The Harbarths and theKuikens chose condo livingfor the best of both worldsit offers. Like many olderadults the appeal of stillowning their home butwithout the maintenanceand upkeep along with hav-ing a congregate livingatmosphere while main-taining their independencewas irresistible.

The Harbarths looked ata few condo and apartment

options in Hutchinsonbefore settling onGreencastle. She said theindoor mailboxes, heatedgarage and minimalupkeep drew them toGreencastle.

“Here it’s convenient,” ElDonna said. “We lookedaround and this was avail-able. I liked this unit andthis location was a little bitbetter for us.”

Harriet and Orv did lessexploring and decided onthe Community ofLakeridge before construc-tion was complete.

“It was probably a yearthat we talked about it,”

Harriet said. “So once ourmind was made up it wasquite easy to do.”

As with most real estatedecisions, location was keyto the Harbarths’ choice.With stores, medical facili-ties and entertainmentoptions only a stone’s throwaway, El Donna andWillmar have easy accessto the amenities and servic-es they need.

“It’s really worked outgood,” El Donna said. “Ilike that the stores areclose by. Now I get in andI’m there in no time at all.Before I had to plan for alittle bit longer time. This

is nice. I don’t have far togo and I’m back rightaway.”

A more hassle-freelifestyle also was on the topof Harriet and Orv’s list,but the community spirit oftheir new home has beenan added bonus. Withmonthly potluck meals, alarge commons area forhosting family gatheringsand card game parties, theKuikens have made newfriends and stayed in touchwith family.

“The commons is a won-derful place to get togetherwith bigger groups,”Harriet said. “If we didn’t

A sitting area in thecommons at theCommunity ofLakeridge is a won-derful amenity, saidresident HarrietKuiken.The com-mons also includesa full kitchen andmany tables andchairs, suitable forhosting family gath-erings.

GreencastleCondominiumsoffers an ideal loca-tion near theHutchinson MedicalCenter, stores andrestaurants.Resident El DonnaHarbarth said livingin easy reach tothose places hassaved her time andstress.


STAFF PHOTOS


have a place like the com-mons, we couldn’t do thingslike that. Its just an idealplace to entertain for thepeople who live here.”

DownsizingMoving is an intensely

physical and stressful taskfor people, no matter theirage. For retirees sortingand boxing up decadesworth of personal belongs,many of which hold senti-mental value is a challenge.El Donna and Willmarparted with half of theirpossessions when theymoved in April, whileHarriet and Orv held on to

a few more items.“What we used is what

we kept,” El Donna said.“What wasn’t being usedwas time to get rid of. Wehad two of everything andit’s two too much when youcome to a place like this. Itsgood it’s gone so I don’thave to worry about it any-more.”

Harriet and Orv deviseda creative way to part withsome belongings.

“It was shortly beforeChristmas when we decid-ed we were going to dothis,” Harriet recalled. “So Iset up in the extra bedroomthe things I didn’t think Iwanted. I put them out so

when our kids came atChristmas time theywalked into that room andthey could pick out whatev-er they wanted. I thoughtthere would be a lot of stuffleft, but there wasn’t.”

Lessons learnedThe Harbarths and the

Kuikens learned a fewthings in their journeys tonew homes, but the mostvaluable advice they wouldshare with others consider-ing a similar transition isto not wait too long.

“One thing Orv saidwhen we moved in herethat I thought was a pro-

found statement and I havesaid it so many time.Shortly after we moved inhere he said ‘the trouble ismost people wait too long todo this.’ I just thought thatwas a very good statementto make and its true. Its somuch nicer if you can do itwhile you’re still together.”

El Donna and Willmarfelt the same way.

“We’re getting older,” ElDonna said. “I said if some-thing were to happen toeither one of us out there,the other wouldn’t be toocomfortable out therealone. So I said let’s do itwhile we can and heagreed.”

• Start with the rooms you use the least. Start thesorting process in these rooms and avoid cluttering theareas of the home used regularly.

• Start with large items. To feel you are makingprogress, in each room start with the largest items andmove towards the smallest.

• Have a sorting system. Sort items by using stickers,making piles, or making detailed lists of what will bekept, what will be given away and to where, and what isstill undecided.

• Work in scheduled blocks of time. Plan to sort itemsfor periods of no more than two hours at a time. Theprocess of revisiting memories and making decisionsabout items you have lived with for many years can beemotionally difficult. You will feel less overwhelmed andmake better decisions if you take regular breaks andallow yourself time to digest what is happening.

• Keep the items that you treasure the most: Make alist of items you refuse to part with and keep that list insight as you sort through other possessions. You mayneed to amend this list as you come across new things.

• Consider bequeathing items now. Identify thoseitems you want certain family members to have and con-sider what items you are willing to bequest now.

• Get rid of things you no longer need. Be realisticabout what items you use regularly and what items you

are just used to having around. • Consider having a garage sale or home auction.• Donate to charity. For those items you cannot give

away as gifts or sell for profit, make a tax deductibledonation to charity. Often traditional charity organiza-tions will pick-up donated items.

• Have the kids remove their “stuff.” Don’t hesitate totell the adult children it is time to collect their childhoodbelongings and store their own mementos. Give them adeadline that works with your schedule and warn themthat anything leftover will be donated to charity.

• Agree on a system. In order to avoid disagreementsamong adult children and other family members, createa clear system for identifying who gets what. One idea isto assign each family member a colored sticker and iden-tify items accordingly. An alternative is to have familymembers take turns choosing items they would like tohave.

• Encourage negotiation: If disagreements happendespite your efforts, encourage family members to nego-tiate amongst themselves.

– Source: “Tips on Downsizing: Moving from the FamilyHome” by Christine Price, Extension State Gerontology

Specialist, The Ohio State University

Planning to downsize?Helpful tips to get started



Instead of downsizing, maybe we should call it “rightsizing.” For many older Americans, that right size is asmaller place. And that means getting rid of somebelongings that just won’t fit.

No matter what you call it, moving can be difficult.There is help, however.

If downsizing involves selling your current property,consider using an expert. A seniors real estate specialistis an agent who has passed special course work andtraining. To locate one in your area, call a local broker.

If you don’t need to sell or buy a property and onlyneed help with the actual moving process, consider usinga certified relocation and transition specialist. These arepeople who help with the planning and moving of thosewho are age 55 or older. They will be able to arrange forpacking, moving, sorting, organizing, antiques evalua-tions and more. Visit the National Association of SeniorMove Managers’ website at www.nasmm.org for moreinformation.

Do you really know what you have in terms of value?Have multiple appraisers come out and make offers onitems you either don’t want to take with you or haven’tdecided on. Perhaps learning that certain antiques couldnet you hundreds or thousands of dollars can help youdecide.

A 55-page book by Barbara H. Morris called “Movingfor Seniors,” could be very helpful. It costs $15 but couldbe a real sanity saver. It’s available at www.movingforse-niors.com, or on Amazon.com for around $10.

If you fear you’re going to be “helped” in your move bysome grabby, uncaring people, consider getting this book,too: “Don’t Toss My Memories in the Trash – A Step-by-Step Guide to Helping Seniors Downsize, Organize, andMove,” by Vickie Dellaquila. The book also is around $10.Read the reviews on Amazon.com to see if you think thebooks will help you.

– King Features Syndicate Inc.

Resources help to ease your move

When you start to consider retirement communities,there are many factors to evaluate. It is important toanticipate the needs you will have as you age as well aswhat you desire when you first retire. This checklist willhelp ensure you weigh all aspects of your potential newhome and make the best decision for your future.

• Cost of living: The costs of housing, utilities, insuranceand food vary from place to place, although not as muchas you might believe. Most areas with a sizable populationand reasonable services will be within range of the medi-an cost of living in the U.S. However, it is important forretirees to research how much they must spend to live in aspecific area, since extreme costs can cut into your savingsquickly.

• Proximity to friends and family: While many peopledream of moving to a fantasy location once they retire,they often do not think about the people they will be leav-ing behind. Do you have friends or relatives in any of theareas you are considering? If not, how far will you have totravel to see your children or grandchildren?

• Ease of local and distant travel: What are the trans-portation services like in the communities you are consid-ering? Is public transportation affordable and accessible?While you may drive everywhere now, as you age you mayfind it necessary to make use of buses, trains and sub-ways. Examine these services now, to make sure they willbe in place when you need them.

In addition, how far are the nearest airports? If youplan to visit your grandchildren several times a year orwant them to visit you, it is important to look at howaccessible distant travel is. An hour’s drive or train ride to

get to an airport is reasonable, while a six-hour drive toreach the nearest major airport may be prohibitive.

• Health care and elderly services: While you may startyour retirement as a vital and healthy mature adult, theodds are high that your healthcare needs will onlyincrease. Does each community you are considering offer areasonable number of doctors per area resident? Is there amajor medical center in the area? How far away are spe-cialists if you have a complicated medical condition?

Even if you do not have health problems as you age, youmay need some other kinds of help. Is there a local councilon aging or other social services agency devoted to elderlyservices? Are things like adult day care, meal delivery andshuttle transportation readily available? How about gro-cery and prescription delivery? All of these things canmake the process of getting older a little easier.

• Climate and geography: Climate is a critical thing toconsider, although it may not be as important as someretirees rate it. Certainly, if you have a health conditionthat requires a temperate climate you should take it intoaccount and weather extremes can make it more difficultto get around.

• Social opportunities: What are the demographics ofyour new community? Whether you are single or married,you will inevitably need social contacts wherever youmove. While it is good to mix with people of all ages, youmay find it especially important to have other retirees toconnect with. So, look for an environment that has notonly people in your age group, but also opportunities tomeet and socialize with others.

– EscapeHomes.com

Exploring a retirement communityRESIDENTIAL LIVING GUIDE


Thousands of people every yearbegin the process of evaluating assist-ed living facilities either for them-selves or a loved one. Personal safetyis one of the primary reasons individ-uals choose to enter a care facility.

Older adults often cherish theirindependence and don’t want toadmit they may need help in certainareas of daily life. However, injuriesin and around the house have becomea routine part of many of their lives.At some point in time a conversationhas to be had, if it is no longer safefor an elderly person to live alone.

Although there are other livingarrangements available, such as in-law suites in homes or a visitingnurse service, for many seniors thepractical choice is to enter an assistedliving facility.

Assisted living facilities are suit-able for individuals needing help withactivities of daily life, but who desireto live as independently as possiblefor as long as possible. An assistedliving facility acts as a transitionbetween independent living and anursing home. It is practical for thosewho cannot live on their own but donot require constant supervision.

Facilities may offer a host of servic-es, including assistance with eating,dressing, bathing, housekeeping andother needs. The center also may beable to provide some level of medicalcare. However, this medical carewon’t be as extensive as in a nursinghome or hospital setting.

Many times facilities are part of alarger web of care called a continuingcare system. This means there is anetwork of facilities in an adult com-munity, from independent living toassisted living to a nursing home.This enables a person to work withone organization and travel comfort-ably through the system as need war-rants.

Because safety is the primary rea-son for seeking a new living arrange-ment, safety should be one of theforemost considerations when choos-ing an assisted living facility. Here

are some questions to ask when visit-ing properties.

• Is there adequate lightingindoors and outdoors?

• Are apartments equipped withgrab bars in the bathrooms and safe-ty railings in the hallways?

• Can a person move freelythroughout the apartment withouttripping on carpeting or otherobstructions?

• Are there safety signaling devicesinside the residence in case of anemergency?

• Are there personnel available 24hours a day to offer assistance?

• Is a call-in system present toensure that residents are doing wellevery day?

• Are employee references checkedthoroughly and have they undergonea background check to ensure theyare safe to have on the premises?

• Is the facility clean and up-to-date with the latest technology?

• Is there medical care availablefor routine services, like dietaryneeds, podiatry and general check-ups?

• Is there a maintenance staff forhome fixes, such as plumbing prob-lems or electrical outages?

Once safety concerns have beenaddressed, facilities can be consideredbased on other desirable factors.Many individuals want facilities thatoffer recreation, free transportation tostores and doctor visits and proximityto family and friends. Some residentsdesire a small facility, while otherslike the options of a larger one.

Cost will also be a major factor inthe decision. If the facility offerseverything desired, it could be worththe expense to pay a little more forgood care.

Make safety a priority in searchfor an assisted living facility

Check that the staff at an assisted living facility is qualified, accessibleand caring before making your choice.



RESIDENTIAL LIVING GUIDE — Pages 16 to 19

Baby boomers and retirees have many choices how and where to

live. Some select to remain in the family home, but recruit help.

Others purchase a condominium or townhome in a 50-plus

community. Those who want more help might opt for an assisted

living facility with a slate of activities, meal options and more.

Browse the spectrum of choices in the living options guide on the

next few pages.

• Augustana Lutheran Homes• Cokato Senior Care-Edgewood Gables• Evergreen Apartments• Greencastle• Hometown Realty-

Community of Lakeridge

• Prairie Senior Cottages• Prince of Peace Retirement Living• Southern Minnesota Home Care• The Oaks & The Pines• Touching Hearts at Home

The Senior Community of Hutchinson

The Oaks & The Pines

• 1 or 2 BR Apartments

• Social Activities

• Medication Administration

• Meal Plan

• 24-hr Staffing

• All Utilities

• Housekeeping and

Laundry Services

For information or to arrange a tour, call Berit Spors at 320-234-0865

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Now Featuring Memory Care

Independence. Community. Security.

RESIDENTIAL LIVING GUIDE / September 2010 15

Trusted CareKeeps YouSafe at Home

02158

Southern Minnesota Home Care126 Main St. S., Suite 6, Hutchinson

320-587-0118Insured and Bonded

What can you expect from our caregivers?� A Compassionate Heart� Trustworthiness and Reliability� Experience and Training� Insured and Bonded� Guaranteed Compatibility

Companionship Services that can grow with your unique needs� Offer Companionship and Conversation� Monitor Diet and Eating� Prepare Meals, Check Food Expirations� Record/Arrange Recipes� Prepare Grocery Lists, Clip Coupons� Assist with Evening/Tuck-In or Morning/Wake-Up� Arrange Appointments, or Remind about Appointments� Remind about Medication� Help with Reading� Assist with Walking� Write Letters, Correspondence, Organize Mail, Mail Bills and Letters� Stimulate Mental Awareness� Assist with Entertaining� Answer the Door� Reminisce about the Past� Assist with Clothing Selection� Care for House Plants� Discuss Current/Historical Events� Play Games, Cards or Participate in Crafts� Supervise Home Maintenance� Monitor TV Usage, Rent and Play Movies� Read Religious Materials� Maintain Calendar� Maintain Family Scrapbook� Provide a Stable Bathing Environment

Asking for help is not easy. Losing your independence is probably your greatest fear.We understand and we want to be there for you,

by your side, every step of the way.

SERVING ALL OF SOUTHERN MINNESOTA

Home Helper Services� Provide Light Housekeeping� Help with Laundry and Ironing� Take Out Garbage� Change Linens, Make Beds� Plan, Prepare and Clean Up Meals� Prepare Future Meals� Dust Furniture� Pick Up Prescriptions� Organize and Clean Closets� Assist with Pet Care� Provide for General Shopping� Accompany to Lunch or Dinner

Trusted CareKeeps YouSafe at HomeWe’ll help you live independentlywithout changing your lifestyle.

16 RESIDENTIAL LIVING GUIDE / September 2010

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Your life can be carefree at a price you can afford.

5 Rental Assistance available5 Social Activities5 Community lounge/kitchen5 Caring Staff 5 Spacious 1 Bedroom Apts.5 Medical emergency call buttons 5 Walking distance to shopping and restaurants

Call for your personal tour today

320-587-9432

EVERGREEN APARTMENTS

Now Taking Applications

Senior Community(62+/Handicap or Disabled)

ExceptionalSENIORLIVING

301 Glen St. SW, Hutchinson320-234-7588

PCelebrating 15 Years And Still Rocking!

1995 – 2010

N02443 Z

Prince of Peace Retirement Living supports

McLeod County

SENIOR EXPO 2010

Tues., Sept. 28 • 8:00 am-2:30 pmHutchinson Event Center

Featuring local vendors, several workshop sessionsto choose from, a make-n-take craft, and “back bypopular demand” keynote speaker, Doug Ohman.

Morning coffee, lunch, door prizes, and entertainment are included in ticket price.

Advance tickets only $8.00

For more information contact Nancy at 320-864-7798.

“Navigating Life’s Journey”


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23

Faith ~ Compassion ~ Commitment ~ Wise Stewardship

A Lifetime of Care

Skilled Care Assisted Living

Hospice Lifeline

Senior Housing RSVP

Home Care Adult Day Services

Public Transit Meals on Wheels

320-693-2472www.augustanahomes.org

Augustana Lutheran Homes

“Making Life Pleasant for Residents”

Thoughts of fall leaf raking and visions of another icyMinnesota winter got you down? Put your worries aside

and cozy up around the fireplace with your new neighborsat Edgewood Gables, providing a lifestyle that offers:

• Special senior living amenities• Support and services respectful of your individuality• NEW! Fully Furnished short-term stay transitional apartment• Fall move-in promotions...ASK US!

www.cokato-senior-care.orgN02434 Z

For more informationcontact Eric Johnson at(320) 286-2159 or at

[email protected] East Third StreetCokato, MN 55321

18 RESIDENTIAL LIVING GUIDE / September 2010

HOMETOWN REALTY, INC.130 Washington Avenue E., Hutchinson, MN 55350

(320) 587-6115www.hometownmn.com

The Community of Lakeridge

Affordable 2 bedroom,

2 bath condoswith heated

garages.

For independent

adults 55 years and

better.

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When a comfortable, stress-free environment is combined with trained caregivers, people with

Alzheimer’s Disease or related memory disordersexperience a better quality of life.

Prairie Senior Cottages features• 24-Hour On-site Caregivers • Secured Building

• Nutritious Family Style Meals • Specialized Programming• RN Supervision & Case Management

• Medication Supervision • Daily Personal Hygiene• Personal Laundry • Housekeeping

• Personal Transportation • Professional Management

PrairieSeniorCottages, LLC

Built on Preserving Dignity

For more information, call John Peterson.

Prairie Senior Cottages

www.prairieseniorcottages.com

Hutchinson: 320-587-5508Willmar: 320-235-6022

Alexandria: 320-763-8244New Ulm: 507-359-3420 N

0218

302438

Hutchinson’s BestKept SecretHutchinson’s BestKept Secret

Greencastle Condominiums in Hutchinson provide a friendly andsecure lifestyle for seniors 55 years and older. Amenities include:

250 Freemont Ave. S.E., Hutchinson • 320-587-4040 • Office Hours: Monday–Friday 9 am–Noon

• Interior mail delivery• All units are handicapped accessible• Heated garages• Large, attractive Commons area with

commercial kitchen available for private use• Overnight guest rooms available, each with

two queen-sized beds, TV and full bath

• Library with books, magazines, movies• Game room with pool table• Exercise room, craft room workshop

and recycling room• Quarter-mile interior walking corridor• Entirely one-level living

Greencastle is walking distance to restaurants, shopping and the Senior Event Center. Bus service stops here!Call Greencastle’s manager today for a tour.

A Legacy for the Future



Comfort Foods

Chilled Corn and Bacon SoupFrom Good Housekeeping

Ingredients:• 4 slices thick-cut bacon, cut into 1/2-inch pieces• 1 large shallot, finely chopped• 3 cups fresh corn kernels• 1 large Yukon gold potato, peeled and shredded• 1/8 teaspoon smoked paprika, plus more for garnish• 2/3 cup water• 4 cups (1 percent) low-fat milk• Salt and pepper• 1/4 cup packed fresh cilantro leavesInstructions:1. In 12-inch skillet, cook bacon on medium 6 to 8 min-

utes or until crisp and browned. With slotted spoon, trans-fer to paper towels to drain.

2. Drain and discard all but 1 tablespoon fat from skil-let. Add shallots and cook on medium 2 minutes or untilgolden and tender, stirring occasionally. Add 2 1/2 cupscorn, shredded potato and paprika. Cook 2 minutes, stir-ring, then add water and cook 7 minutes or until liquidevaporates and vegetables are tender.

3. Remove skillet from heat and transfer corn mixtureto blender. Add milk and 1/8 teaspoon salt and puree untilmixture is very smooth. Cover and refrigerate until soupis very cold, at least 3 hours and up to overnight.

4. To serve, top with bacon, cilantro, freshly groundblack pepper and remaining corn. Garnish with paprika.

Dillied Tuna-Macaroni SaladBy Healthy Exchanges

Ingredients:• 2 cups cold cooked rotini pasta, rinsed and drained• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion• 1 cup sliced celery• 1/2 cup shredded reduced-fat Cheddar cheese• 1/4 cup dill pickle relish• 1 (6-ounce) can white tuna, packed in water, drained

and flaked• 1/2 cup fat-free mayonnaise• 1 teaspoon lemon juice• 1 hard-boiled egg, choppedInstructions:1. In a large bowl, combine rotini pasta, onion, celery

and Cheddar cheese. In a small bowl, combine dill picklerelish, tuna, mayonnaise and lemon juice. Add dressingmixture to pasta mixture. Mix well to combine. Fold inchopped egg.

2. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Gentlystir again just before serving.

Rainbow Fruit SaladFrom Kitchen Diva

Ingredients:• 1 large mango, peeled and diced• 2 cups fresh blueberries• 2 nectarines, unpeeled and sliced• 2 cups fresh strawberries, halved• 2 cups seedless grapes• 2 bananas, sliced• 1 kiwifruit, peeled and dicedInstructions:1. Prepare the fruit.2. Combine all ingredients, and mix.3. Before serving, pour honey-orange sauce over fruit.

Honey-Orange SauceIngredients:• 1/3 cup unsweetened orange juice• 2 tablespoons lemon juice• 1-1/2 tablespoons honey• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger• Dash of nutmegInstructions:Using a small bowl, combine orange juice, lemon juice,

honey, ginger and nutmeg until well-blended. When readyto serve, pour sauce over fruit salad.

Chill out with cool cuisine


1455 Montreal St. SE (Next to Menards)

320-587-6308 • 800-955-6336Open Monday through Thursday 8 a.m.–7:30 p.m., Friday 8 a.m.–4 p.m.

1st and 3rd Saturdays Labor Day through Memorial Day: 8:30 a.m.–12 Noon

Regional Eye CenterA WHOLE NEW LEVEL OF CARE IN HUTCHINSON

Michael P.Merck, M.D.

Christopher R. Wallyn, D.O.

Amy J.Nyquist, O.D.

Steve Queenan ABO/NCLE

Allan D.Wortz, O.D. N02351 Z

WE OFFER THREE AREAS OF EXPERTISE IN ONE CONVENIENT,RELAXED ATMOSPHERE

� Regional Eye SpecialistsOPHTHALMOLOGY/OPTOMETRY

A new level of eye examination and patient education.

State-of-the art equipment for examination of the

retina, macula and optic nerve.

� Regional Eye OpticalQUALITY EYEWEAR/PERSONAL EYECARE

Twice the optical selection, including new frame styles,

Transitions® and polarized prescription sunglasses.

� Regional Eye Surgery CenterON-SITE SURGERY CENTER

On-site cataract, glaucoma and Wavescan® LASIK surgery, performed with the latest surgical equipment.

We offer the newest technologies in

• Lifestyle Premium Intraocular Lenses—implants that

correct nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism

and the need for bifocals

• New Surgical Treatment of Glaucoma

• All-Laser Lasik

• New Treatments for Macular Degeneration

• Eyelid Surgery

Comfort Foods

Your freezer is one of the best ways to preserve the colorand flavor of summer produce all year long. Here’s somegreat tips for freezing the best selection of your favoritesummer vegetables and herbs.

• Can I freeze bell and sweet peppers raw?Peppers are one of those foods that can be quickly

frozen raw without blanching them first. The NationalCenter for Home Food Preservation offers these guide-lines:

Select crisp, tender, green or bright-red pods. Wash, cutout stems, cut in half and remove seeds. If desired, cutinto one-half inch strips or rings. Good for use in uncookedfoods because they have a crisper texture, or in cookedfoods. Package raw, leaving no headspace. Seal and freeze.

To make it easier to remove only the amount of frozenpeppers needed at one time, freeze sliced or diced peppersin a single layer on a cookie sheet with sides. Transfer to afreezer bag when frozen.

• Can tomatoes be frozen raw?Like peppers, tomatoes can be frozen raw. Frozen toma-

toes are best used in cooked foods such as soups, saucesand stews as they become mushy when they’re thawed.

Select firm, ripe tomatoes with deep red color. Wash anddip in boiling water for 30 seconds to loosen skins. Coreand peel. Freeze whole or in pieces. Pack into containers,leaving l-inch headspace. Seal and freeze.

Dip just a few tomatoes at a time into the boiling wateror the water temperature may be lowered too much toremove the skins without overheating the tomatoes. Placehot tomatoes in a colander and rinse under cold water tomake them easier to handle. A knife with a serrated edgeworks best for cutting tomatoes.

• How about freezing fresh herbs?Wash, drain and pat the herbs dry with paper towels.

Wrap a few sprigs or leaves in freezer wrap and place in afreezer bag, then seal and freeze. The frozen herbs can bechopped and used in cooked dishes. After freezing, theherbs usually are not suitable for garnish, as they becomelimp when thawed.

To extend the time frozen fruits and vegetables main-tain good quality, package foods in material intended forfreezing and keep the temperature of the freezer at 0 F orbelow. It is generally recommended that frozen vegetablesand fruits be eaten within eight months for best quality.

Freezing saves the best of summer


Out and About

At the right, Buddy Christensen, Litchfield takes a gan-der at a selection of cacti displayed at the MeekerCounty Fair. Christensen is a plant enthusiast, whoused to grow his vegetables on his hobby farm.

STAFF PHOTOS BY KATIE WINTER

Ripe, colorful vegetables adorn the shelves and tablesin the open class building at the Meeker County Fair.

Betty Hermann,Litchfield admiresthe selection of4-H art projectson Aug. 5 at theMeeker CountyFair. Hermannspent 13 yearsas a 4-H’er her-self as a youth.

A day out at the fair


Ask Marci

Dear Marci,I recently had a hip replacement, and my doctor

says I will need physical therapy every day for thenext few weeks in a skilled nursing facility. WillMedicare pay for the therapy services and othercare I receive in the skilled nursing facility?

— Gladys

Dear Gladys,Medicare will cover your skilled nursing facility care if

all three of these requirements are met:• You need skilled nursing care seven days a week or

skilled therapy services at least five days a week;• You become eligible for Medicare before you are

released from the hospital • You were formally admitted as an inpatient to a hospi-

tal for at least three days in a row in the 30 days beforeadmission to a Medicare-certified skilled nursing facility.If you only get emergency room services, or are underobservation, this time does not qualify you for Medicarecoverage of a SNF stay.

Medicare-covered SNF care includes: skilled nursingcare, physical, occupational, or speech therapy, the cost ofroom and board, as well as other services and items suchas prescription drugs and medical equipment you receiveat the SNF.

If you have Original Medicare there is no copay for thefirst 20 days in a skilled nursing facility. After the first 20days, you will have to pay a copay of $137.50 each dayfrom day 21 through day 100 in 2010.

Private health plans must also cover skilled nursingfacility care but may not require the three-day prior hospi-tal stay requirement or charge different amounts for care.Starting in 2011, private health plans will be limited intheir ability to charge higher cost-sharing for SNF carethan original Medicare.

In order to find a skilled nursing facility, you shouldspeak to your doctor and the hospital discharge plannerabout your skilled nursing facility care needs. Ask them tohelp you find a Medicare-certified skilled nursing facilityin your area that will best meet your needs after you leavethe hospital.

— Marci

Do you need help people with Medicare? Call theProfessional Hotline, a national service offered by theMedicare Rights Center to support people serving theMedicare population. Dial 877-794-3570 from 9 a.m. to 6p.m. EST for info.

Is my therapycovered?


Wellness

Dear Mayo Clinic:I have heard that vitamin E can be

harmful to diabetics with heart prob-lems. Can you tell me more aboutthis?

Answer:The scientific evidence has been

mixed regarding vitamin E’s effect ona person's risk of heart disease. Earlystudies seemed to indicate that vita-min E could help prevent heart dis-ease. Results of followup studies havebeen less promising, however. Thevitamin E you consume as part of ahealthy diet isn’t a concern. But,based on the research informationavailable now, I do not recommendthat people with diabetes take vita-min E supplements.

Vitamin E is found in a variety offoods, including vegetable oils (corn,cottonseed, soybean, safflower), wheatgerm, whole-grain cereals and greenleafy vegetables. One of vitamin E’sfunctions is to prevent a chemicalreaction called oxidation, which cansometimes result in harmful effects inyour body. Because of this, vitamin Eis called an “antioxidant.”

Substantial evidence from basic sci-ence and laboratory research has sug-gested that antioxidants such as vita-

min E may reduce heart disease riskby several mechanisms. One is pre-venting low-density lipoprotein (LDLor “bad”) cholesterol from producingplaques that can narrow the heart’sarteries (atherosclerosis). Diabetesdramatically increases a person’s riskof cardiovascular problems — includ-ing coronary artery disease, heartattack, stroke, atherosclerosis andhigh blood pressure. Thus, it seemedappropriate, based on these initialstudies, to recommend vitamin E sup-plements to people with diabetes.

Several subsequent studies haveindicated otherwise. To follow up oninitial observational studies that sug-gested possible benefits, researchersconducted a variety of controlled clini-cal trials that studied people whowere randomly assigned to take vita-min E daily. These studies found thatregular use of high-dose vitamin Esupplements may increase the risk ofdeath (from all causes) by a smallamount, while other studies found noeffect on mortality in people who tookvitamin E daily.

Some of the clinical trials raisedconcerns about an increased risk ofbleeding when people take high dosesof vitamin E daily, particularly in

patients who take blood-thinningmedications, such as warfarin,heparin, or aspirin, and in patientswith vitamin K deficiency.

As a result of these more recentfindings, some researchers haveargued that there may be subpopula-tions, including individuals with dia-betes, who are affected differently byvitamin E, and some vitamin Epreparations that have differingeffects. These situations have yet tobe studied.

The ongoing research regardingvitamin E illustrates several impor-tant points. First, recommendationsbased solely on laboratory studies donot always show the expected out-come when translated to real-life situ-ations in people. Second, outcomesfound in observational studies are notcontrolled in a way that allowsresearchers to determine the trueimpact of the use of a medication orsupplement. For example, observa-tional studies can suggest an associa-tion, but are not a true test, of possi-ble benefits of vitamin E. Vitamin Emay have been the basis for the find-ings, but other possible explanationsexist.

Third, the highest level of evidenceto support the use of a certain med-ication or supplement comes fromclinical randomized controlled trialsassessing not only intermediate out-comes — such as antioxidant activityin this case — but more significantly,patient-important outcomes, such asquality of life and morbidity.

Based on the information we havenow, I would not recommend that adiabetic patient take additional vita-min E other than what would beincluded in a sensible heart-healthydiet. If you have questions about yourdiet or about ways to reduce your riskof heart disease, talk to your doctor.

— Steven Smith, M.D.,Endocrinology, Mayo Clinic,

Rochester, Minn.

Vitamin E supplementsand diabetes don’t mix


Travel

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A car dealer for the times in Hutchinson

525 Hwy. 7 EastHutchinson

320-587-2240www.valleyhutchinson.com

Every Wednesday is Senior Citizen’s Day:

10% Off Parts Laborin our Service Department.

and

Service Manager Jeremy Crosby, Service Writer DeWayneIngebretson, Body Shop Manager Alan Olson

We’ll take the time to explain all services done on your vehicle—we’re happy to answer any questions.

Enjoy free coffee and cookies!

• Sales • Service • Body Shop • Parts

AARP names top fiveplaces to retire abroad

Experts in celebrating the next chapter in life, AARPThe Magazine traveled the globe to discover the ultimateretirement destinations abroad. See what regions inMexico, France, Panama, Portugal and Italy have to offer.

1. Puerto Vallarta, MexicoPuerto Vallarta is the undisputed number one destina-

tion for American retirees. With its rich Indian andSpanish culture, lavish beaches and affordable real-estate,Puerto Vallarta offers the low-cost, laid back lifestyleretirees seek to find in a community.

2. Languedoc-Roussillon, FranceOnce remote, the Languedoc-Roussillon region is now

just three hours from the bright lights and bustling ener-gy of Paris via high-speed train. The area is steeped inhistory and art. Languedoc-Roussillon is also a destinationfor the outdoor crowd with picturesque hills and beachalong its Mediterranean seashore.

3. Boquete, PanamaPanama is a smart choice for retirees who want it all.

Not only does it feature attractive retiree destinations,Panama also offers an unbeatable package of retiree bene-fits and discounts. Boquete has a unique range of back-home amenities, from a golf course to high-end gated com-munities.

4. Cascais, PortugalMany wonder why Portugal has long been overlooked by

American retirees. A plenitude of golf, beaches, resortsand trendy café life makes Portugal one of Europe’s mostpleasant surprises for retirees.

5. Le Marche, ItalyLe Marche, bordering the Adriatic, is beautiful region

with vineyards, snow-capped mountains and beachesaplenty. It also prides itself on the best fish dishes in thecountry and is trendy enough to have snagged DustinHoffman as a tourism spokesperson!

For more information and an extended list of AARP TheMagazine’s “Best Places to Retire Abroad,” visitwww.aarp.org.


Puzzles

KING CROSSWORDACROSS1 Group of musicians5 Great Lakes fish9 Dubya's brother12 Chills and fever13 Leak slowly14 Eggs15 Mischievous sprite17 Stein or Stiller18 Go up19 Express appreciation21 Tag24 A Baldwin brother25 Lotion additive26 Fixed firmly30 Young lion31 One over par32 Rage33 Inscribe, as in heraldry35 Soccer score36 "Dear -"37 Feel

38 Equine40 Ethereal42 Wapiti43 Sympathy-evoking journalist48 Retainer49 Attention getter50 Simple51 Anderson's "High -"52 Youngsters53 Stratagem

DOWN 1 "Humbug!"2 Past3 Gist4 Temperature unit5 Corn eaters' throwaways6 Golf target7 Submachine gun8 British automobile9 Mini-strike10 Level11 Teller's place16 Lubricate

20 Coop occupant21 Chantilly, e.g.22 Astringent23 "Priceless Memories" writer24 Congregational call26 Snug and warm27 Swelled head28 History chapters29 Opposite of "stet"31 Watched 52-Across34 Ton fractions (Abbr.)35 Old Faithful, e.g.37 - Lanka38 Weight39 Margarine40 Help a hood41 Doctrines44 Discoverer's cry45 Greek consonant46 Ar follower47 Reuben holder

All answers on page 28


Puzzles

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Hearing less of life?We can help.

HutchinsonCenter for

Hearing

100 Washington Ave. E.,Hutchinson

320-234-6825

LitchfieldCenter for

Hearing

32 E. 2nd St.,Litchfield

320-593-0885

All answers on page 28


Puzzle Answers

CROWRIVER BUSINESSJanuary

2010

Katie Winter

Reporter

(320) 693-3266

(320) 234-4172

Crow River MediaA target market media division of the

Litchfield Independent Review and Hutchinson Leader

Shari ForsmanMarketing Representative(320) 693-3266(320) 234-4171

esTZ N

SD CKSIDEEW

Crow River MediaA target market media division of the

Litchfield Independent Review and Hutchinson Leader


Money Matters

Annuities are in the spotlight these days as a popularway to help Americans achieve a secure retirement.

“People are living longer, and the prospect of outlivingyour money is very real,” said Rich Lindsay, senior vicepresident of Life and Annuities at Symetra Financial.“Annuities are a great way to ensure your money lasts aslong as you do.”

When you buy an annuity, the insurance company hasa contractual obligation to guarantee payment at thetime you designate. Your money grows tax-deferred aslong as it remains in the contract.

Here’s a primer to help pick the type of annuity rightfor you:

• Immediate or deferred: First, consider when you willwant your money. If you need it right away, use a lumpsum to purchase an immediate annuity, which starts pay-

ing out within 13 months. With a deferred annuity, youinvest your money now, let it grow over time, then con-vert it to an income stream at some point in the future.

• Fixed or variable: Next, determine your risk toler-ance. Fixed annuities offer a more conservative solutionas they build retirement assets at a guaranteed interestrate. Variable annuities are riskier because account val-ues are based on market fluctuations, but they do havethe potential for higher rewards.

• Consider your options: There are several options youcan add to an annuity. For example, you can adjust pay-outs for inflation, select a death benefit that pays out toyour heirs, or receive a lump sum in case of an emer-gency. Extra fees may apply with some of these options.

– NAPSI

Which annuity is right for you?

Understanding the basics of a reverse mortgage couldsave you some money.

For example, some banks offer FHA-insured reversemortgages with lower fees. With the reduced cost, olderhomeowners may have access to more tax-free loan pro-ceeds to help secure financial independence.

“This is great news for people who are retired and wantto increase their monthly income. Reverse mortgage loanscan help homeowners age 62 or older to improve theirmonthly cash flow and have real peace of mind,” said TimMcDonald, head of Wells Fargo’s Senior Products Group.

Reverse mortgage loan proceeds are paid to the seniorhomeowner in a lump sum, for a fixed-rate loan or a lumpsum, monthly payment, a line of credit or a combination ofthe three for a variable rate loan.

Additionally, there are no credit, employment or incomequalifications for the reverse mortgage programs.

Homeowners must be at least 62 and own their housefree and clear or able to pay it off with proceeds from thereverse mortgage.

Many older Americans use the loan funds to supplementretirement income, meet unexpected medical expenses, ormake much-needed improvements to their home.

“Social Security replaces only a fraction of preretirementearnings, so a reverse mortgage is a popular choice forretirees looking to secure financial independence,”McDonald said.

Reverse mortgages can be key to ensuring that you havethe financial ability to age in place. Studies show that 85

percent of older Americans want to stay in their homes foras long as they can. Even modest homes have the poten-tial to generate more than $600 in monthly proceeds froma variable-rate reverse mortgage — as long as the theylive in the home as their primary home, keeps the taxesand insurance paid and maintains the house to FHA stan-dards.

That amount of money can make a big difference in thelifestyle of someone in retirement.

The HECM is the most popular reverse mortgage inAmerica today and is only available through an FHA-approved lender. The program has insured more than580,000 reverse mortgages since 1989.

Wells Fargo attributes the growth of reverse mortgageloans to several factors, including that seniors havegreater awareness and understanding of the reverse mort-gage loan product, and the aging U.S. population — cur-rently, more than 34 million Americans are over age 65.By 2050, it is projected that 86.7 million Americans will be65 or older.

The loan amount for a reverse mortgage is based onthree factors: age of the youngest borrower, value of thehome and current interest rates.

Numerous consumer safeguards are built into the pro-gram, including mandatory HUD-approved counseling,payment guarantees, capped interest rates and advanceddisclosures.

– NAPSI

Reverse mortgages cansave you more money


Last Word

Cushman crowd surefond of their scooter

SUBMITTED PHOTOS

The spring ride of the Cushman Club of America’s Minnesota Chapter took place June 6, and included a stopin Darwin.The event drew 34 people and 22 scooters, according to Eddie Johnson, a member from Darwin.

By Brent Schacherer

Eddie Johnson boughthis first Cushmanscooter when he was

14, intending to ride it toand from his part-time job.

More than 50 years later,he no longer owns thatscooter, but Johnson stillremembers it fondly. Andhe owns two others thatcontinue to satisfy hisCushman enthusiasm.

“They were really popu-lar back then,” Johnson, 70,

said of the scooter hebought in the mid-1950s.“A lot of guys around herehad them.”

The Cushman Co. manu-factured its last scooter inthe mid-1960s. Needless tosay, Cushmans are nolonger a popular mode oftransportation for MeekerCounty residents.

But Johnson and about100 others aroundMinnesota continue to keepthe thrill of Cushmanscooters alive through theMinnesota chapter of the

Cushman Club of America.Johnson played host to thechapter’s annual springride two weeks ago.

The event drew 34 clubmembers and 22 scooters,and the majority made aSaturday morning ridefrom Darwin to Roscoe, justnortheast of Paynesville,and back again — a round-trip of about 120 miles.

Johnson made sure hebrought fellow ridersaround as many lakes inthe area as possible. Theride included stops at the

Roscoe Tavern, MiesOutland in Watkins, and ofcourse, the twine ball inDarwin.

“It’s fun to get together,and I like to show themsome of the businesses inour area, too,” saidJohnson, who last was hostto the event about 12 yearsago.

Mostly, though, the eventis about celebrating theCushman scooters all of themembers cherish so much.

The Cushman Co. beganin 1901 when cousins

Everett and Clinton Cushman startedmaking farm machinery and two-cycle boat engines in Lincoln, Neb.According to company lore, a young-ster visited the plant in 1935, insearch of spare parts for his scooter —which was powered by an oldCushman washing machine motor. Aplant employee took an interest in thescooter and the following year, thecompany manufactured its firstCushman scooter.

The company made scooters for thearmed services during World War II.By 1950, the expanded Cushmanplant in Lincoln was producing 10,000scooters per year. The company even-tually branched out into manufactur-ing items such as golf carts and three-wheeled trucksters.

Two members of the Minnesotachapter of the Cushman Club ofAmerica worked at the Lincoln plant,according to Johnson. And while thereseems to be nothing remarkableabout the scooters, which ran oneverything from 3 horsepower to 9

horsepower engines, they hold a spe-cial attraction for those who rode themachines in their youth, Johnsonsaid.

“We had them as kids, you know.(Riding them today), it’s bringing theboyhood back to me when we get onand ride them,” he said.

Johnson has owned severalCushman scooters through the years,and he had three in his possession upto last year — a 1946, 1955 and 1965.He sold the 1946 Civilian Airbornelast year, but continues to ride theother two.

Among Johnson’s favorite rides, hesaid, is his annual appearance aboardone of his Cushmans in the DarwinTwine Ball parade. “It’s just a lot offun,” he said. “I always ride in theparade.”

While most of the Minnesota chap-ter members are getting on in years— the oldest is 86 — hopping aboardtheir Cushmans has a way of bring-ing out the kid in them, Johnson said,no matter where the ride takes them.


Last Word

Name ____________________________________________

Address __________________________________________

City ____________________State ______Zip____________

Mail this form and your $18 or $10 check to

ZESTP.O. Box 921Litchfield, MN 55355

Themail’shere!”

“

The happiest day of the month is when delivery of the fresh, new issue of ZESTarrives in mailboxes and on newsstands.Home delivery subscriptions are availablefor $18 per year.Subscribers to the Independent Review orLeader can receive ZEST for only $10 per year.

N02255

Subscribe to ZEST

ZEST36 Washington Ave. W.Hutchinson, MN 55350

ORTO

Eddie and Ileen Johnson getready to hop aboard his 1965Cushman.


N024

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• Short temper or irritability• Nighttime chest pains• Lack of energy or ambition• Problems concentrating or

remembering things

Rest easy,The Sleep Center

is open

• Daytime sleepiness even after a full night’s sleep

• Morning headaches• Breathing irregularities/heavy snoring,

snorting or gasping during sleep

Methods of TreatmentTreatment may include relaxation training, behavioral therapy, medication, or the use of special devices that help patients improve their sleep. Some patients will need an over-night sleep study (called polysomnography or PSG) that monitors your sleep, breathing,heart rhythm and limb movement through painless sensors attached to your body.

Proven Expertise. Excellent Results.The Sleep Center is led by a physician from the University of Minnesota who specializesin the testing, diagnosis and treatment of your symptoms. If you or someone you knowcould benefit from a better night’s sleep, contact your physician for a referral.

Who Should Visit The Sleep Center?Sleep disorders and poor sleep can be associated with the following symptoms:

A good’s night’s sleep is essential to your health. Experts estimate that 95 percent of those suffering from sleep disorders go undiagnosed,because they mistakenly attribute the symptoms of sleep disorders to other conditions. People literally sleep through their problems.

320.234.5000www.HutchinsonHealthCare.com

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zest Sept 2010