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Peace of Mind Post
SEPTEMBER 2022
BY OFFERING GUIDANCE AND SUPPORT I ENCOURAGE MY CLIENTS DAILY
caregivers to their loved ones. I understand how stressful and overwhelming this role can be and how they can feel isolated within this responsibility. I want to see them succeed and be prepared for anything that comes their way. But they may not know which avenue is best for them or how they can plan to ensure all of their needs are met. That’s why I offer guidance and resources to my clients, so they know their options and how I can assist them moving forward. I understand my clients’ stress, anxiety, worries, and concerns when they receive the life-altering news that a loved one has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. It can be challenging to know what to do next during this time of life. In order to offer both words of encouragement and guidance, I wrote two books that can be resources to my clients who have an Alzheimer’s diagnosis or are caring for a loved one with the disease. “You’re Not Alone: Living with Alzheimer’s Disease” and “You’re Not Alone: Living as an Alzheimer’s Caregiver” offer advice on choosing decision-makers, protecting yourself legally, and coping with the stresses of caregiving. Millions of people will receive an Alzheimer’s disease diagnosis this year, and there isn’t a lot of information on how to plan and prepare. I’ve listened to my clients as they voiced their struggles to me,
There seems to be a lot of negativity in the world today — especially on social media. Encouraging ourselves and others is needed now more than ever if we wish to grow and improve. I aim to find the positives in the situations around me and encourage my loved ones and clients to remain positive and keep pushing forward. In honor of National Encouragement Day being on Sept. 12, I wanted to share why encouragement is so important and how I implement it in my profession. Encouragement is essential for several reasons. First, it can provide others with a boost of confidence. If you’re discouraged about something, it’s difficult to remain motivated and positive. But if you receive encouragement, it can provide you with the strength to look ahead, move forward, and reach for your next goal. Typically, we are our own worst critics, so having someone encourage us to keep going is extremely powerful. Sometimes, you’re not stuck in the same position because you lost confidence and need a “pep talk.” You can be stuck because you’re unsure of how to move forward. Encouragement is more than sharing positive words with others; encouragement can be in the form of guidance. I provide this form of encouragement to my clients daily. I frequently work with individuals who are
and I wanted to fill that gap and ensure that resources are available to help you and your family. Always remember that you’re never alone in your struggles. I will happily walk alongside you and help you prepare for your next steps. If you want a FREE copy of my “You’re Not Alone” books, call today or go to TrinityElderLaw.com/470-2 for more information. Happy National Encouragement Day, everyone. Take some time to show your support for the people who are in your life. One simple gesture can go a long way.
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Purchasing Long-Te
THE IMPORTANCE OF SOCIALIZATION IN RETIREMENT GET OUT AND MINGLE As humans, we thrive on love and companionship. In our golden years, that desire and the benefits that come from it don’t go away. In fact, socialization is especially important for seniors. According to a study from the Harvard School of Public Health, a healthy social life in your 50s and 60s slows down the rates of memory loss and deterioration. It also provides many other positive benefits. Fosters Positivity After your working years come to a close and you no longer interact with coworkers, loneliness and isolation have a higher chance of settling in. Socialization is key to keeping your spirits high. So, to create and maintain positive relationships, make plans with friends and family to keep yourself busy and entertained. Reduces Stress In today’s world, stress can creep up easily. Whether it’s a busy schedule, worry about family members, fear of shifts in the economy, or unstable current events overseas that keep you on edge and anxious, get out and do something! A night out with a friend or even just time spent chatting with a family member on the phone can help to reduce stress. Increases Self-Worth Social activities such as exercise classes, group dinners, walks with a friend, or events at a clubhouse are great ways to build friendships. While friendships are a two-way street, being on the giving side can help you feel needed and increase your self-worth. To be good company is a great way to help others, which makes you feel great about yourself, too! Engagement, socialization, and creating meaningful relationships are necessary components of being happy and healthy, especially as you age. So, sign up for water aerobics, take that group pottery class, go fishing with your friends, take your neighbor up on that walk, and go to that party! You just might have a great time, and you’ll never regret interacting with others!
HERE ARE THE D
More adult children are caring for their aging parents and assisting them while they plan for the future. That being said, it’s understandable that they’re seeing the importance of using long-term care insurance as a tool. But if you or a loved one are considering purchasing long- term care insurance, here are the do’s and don’ts you really should think about. What You Should Do • Although you don’t have to give up everything so your loved one can live in a nursing home or assisted living facility, they can still be expensive. Therefore, you want to find a sufficient daily benefit plan to pay the expenses to ensure you won’t have to use personal funds to cover the cost. To find your daily benefit, take the average cost of where you live (or where you will be living) and subtract it from your daily income. • It’s crucial that you understand the “waiver premium” feature. Once you begin receiving benefits from an insurance company, the premium on the policy will be waived. However, if the person receiving the insurance recovers and can do things independently, the premiums will resume because they will be ineligible for benefits.
Puzzle Time!
Answers:
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Term Care Insurance?
IN HONOR OF NATIONAL FOOD BANK DAY
DO’S AND DON’TS
3 Organizations Where You Can Donate
• Some costs of premiums can rise, so it’s best to purchase a “paid up” policy . These policies don’t require a premium once the person receiving long-term care reaches a certain age.
Giving back to your community is beneficial in more ways than one. You can connect with others and positively impact the lives of those in need. Sept. 2 is National Food Bank Day, and although it’s early in the month, donating unwanted items is something we should frequently do. Here are three food banks and donations centers where you and your loved ones can donate or volunteer. The Lighthouse Foundation 116 Browns Hill Rd, Suite 400 ● TheLightHousePA.org/food Founded in 1985, The Lighthouse Foundation is a Christian outreach organization that helps impoverished individuals and families in Allegheny and Butler counties. It’s also the largest food pantry in Butler County and is the sole provider of interim housing for young adults, single parents, and families in that area. The organization’s vision is to encourage others to find Christ through their services and empower them to be self-sufficient. You can donate food and money to the organization as well as volunteer there too. For more information, check out their website.
What You Shouldn’t Do •
Don’t wait too long to purchase a policy. Age shouldn’t be a consideration for purchasing long-term insurance. When people decide they need it, they are no longer eligible for it due to health conditions. So, buy your policy early to ensure you will receive the benefits. • Did you know that some premiums are tax-deductible? Therefore, don’t forget to notify your tax preparer. Deductibles vary because they’re determined by the age of the insured, so contact your attorney or tax advisor for more information. • If you buy long-term insurance, you may worry that you will pass away before you use your policy benefits. But don’t worry about your benefits going unused. Rather than having nothing at all, it’s better to be prepared and have this just in case you need it. If you have any questions about long-term care planning or insurance, allow your friends at Trinity Elder Law & Estate Planning to assist you. We will be happy to help you find a plan that fits you and your family’s needs and ensure that your assets are protected. Give us a call today, so we can begin planning to prepare you for the future.
Butler Meals On Wheels 218 E. Jefferson St. ● ButlerMealsOnWheels.com
Although Meals on Wheels isn’t your traditional food bank, they deliver two freshly cooked meals to those in need every weekday. Its mission is to provide excellent, nutritious, home- delivered meals to those in the community and help those recovering from an illness or disability. Meals on Wheels has 24 volunteers who deliver meals daily to over 100 clients. Personal deliveries allow them to touch base with people in their community and ensure they get the proper care they need. If you want to volunteer, call their Volunteer Coordinator, Natalie Wall, at 724.285.9573.
HEALTHY VEGGIE DOG TREATS
Southwest Butler Food Cupboard 557 Perry Highway ● SWBFoodCupboard.org
Ingredients
In September 1983, the Southwest Butler Food Cupboard opened its doors as a “Christian outreach project.” At first, they would provide food on an as-needed basis. But now, they’ve expanded their services to a monthly distribution schedule. Each family is given nonperishables, meats, dairy items, baked goods, and prepared food that’s been locally donated. Families have food to last their household
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1 cup pumpkin purée 1/4 cup peanut butter
• • • •
3 cups whole wheat flour, divided 1 carrot, peeled and shredded
2 large eggs
1 zucchini, shredded
1/2 cup old-fashioned oats
1 cup baby spinach, chopped
Directions
1. Preheat oven to 350 F. 2. Using an electric mixer, beat the pumpkin purée, peanut butter, and eggs on medium-high for about 1–2 minutes until combined. 3. Gradually add old-fashioned oats and 2 1/2 cups flour at low speed until barely incorporated. Add an additional 1/4 cup flour at a time until the dough is no longer sticky. 4. Add carrot, zucchini, and spinach, then beat just until incorporated. 5. On a lightly floured surface, knead dough 3–4 times. 6. Using a rolling pin, roll the dough to 1/4-inch thickness. Use cookie cutters to shape, then place treats on a lined baking pan. 7. Bake for 20–25 minutes until the edges are golden brown. Cool completely before serving. Inspired by DamnDelicious.net
for at least 7–10 days. You can donate food at several church locations on the second or third Tuesday of every month. To learn
about where you can donate and how you can get
involved, visit their website.
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340 N. Main St., Suite 103 Butler, PA 16001 724.256.8850 www.TrinityElderLaw.com
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INSIDE This Issue
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Receive Your FREE Copy of My Books!
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Why Socialization Is Important for Seniors Don’t Wait to Purchase This Policy!
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Healthy Veggie Dog Treats Give Back to Your Community This Month
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A Dog’s Loyalty Has No Limit
THIS BELGIAN MALINOIS NEEDS A CAPE EVA’S STAND-OFF WITH A MOUNTAIN LION
BY DIALING 911 A commonly uttered phrase among dog lovers is that we don’t deserve them. This comes from the fact that dogs often give
The mountain lion growled and took a swipe at Wilson’s left shoulder. As it lunged at her, Wilson screamed and shouted
for Eva. At the distressed call of her owner, the dog came running back to Wilson’s aid. Without hesitation, Eva leapt between Wilson and tackled the wild cat. During the short tussle, the mountain lion managed to get its jaws around Eva’s head, but Wilson fought to free her dog by throwing rocks in an attempt to break its hold. When that didn’t work, she ran back to her truck and managed to wave down a passing motorist. With their combined efforts — and a crowbar and lots of pepper
their all to protect their owners, even if that means putting their own lives at risk. Dogs seem to be instinctively wired to protect their humans — and it’s more proof they really are our best friends. In May 2022, Erin Wilson pulled off at a roadside picnic area and headed down a path toward the Trinity River in California with her Belgian Malinois, Eva. As Wilson walked down the slope, the dog ran ahead. Suddenly, Wilson turned around and realized she was being cornered by a mountain lion.
spray — they were able to scare the mountain lion away. Wilson, though wounded, managed to carry Eva back to her truck and raced her to an animal hospital. Unfortunately, while Eva survived the initial attack, she passed away due to her injuries on June 8, 2022. Wilson said she would do anything for her dog, and that day, Eva proved she had done the same for Wilson.”
These attacks are incredibly rare due to the mountain lion’s reclusive and shy nature. In fact, since 1890, California has recorded only six fatal mountain lion attacks. However, recent drought conditions have made food scarce in some areas. Their preferred prey is deer, but these conditions probably made the sudden appearance of a slender woman look like an attractive option.
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