As people get older and circumstances change, their social lives can suffer. From the death of a spouse to family and friends moving on to new endeavors, a person may find him or herself suddenly socially isolated.

Eight percent of American seniors live in social isolation, and the situation can have a big impact on physical and mental health. Here are four things to know about the benefits of having an active social life and how to improve socialization.

Social Isolation Can Lead to Depression

Loneliness can lead to depression in older adults. People who are divorced or whose spouses have died may feel lonely and disconnected from other family members as well. Depression and loneliness can contribute to a lower quality of life. However, socializing with others and building new friendships can improve feelings of well-being and improve mood.

Socializing Can Benefit Physical Health

While socialization can improve mental health, it also has an effect on physical health. People who socialize with others and have a strong support system have been shown to live longer. Elderly people with a strong social network of friends and family may have a stronger immune system. This can help people fight off infections and improve overall health.

Cognitive Health Can Be Improved with Socialization

Social connections may help fight dementia and improve cognitive function. Researchers believe interacting with others can help people avoid dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. People with large social networks of people to rely on and socialize with keep their brains active and focused, which helps cognitive function.

Look for New Ways to Socialize with Others

While socializing improves physical, mental, and cognitive health, it may be difficult to find new ways to spend time with other people. Look for opportunities to meet other people, such as visiting a senior center or volunteering with a group. If you are retired, get a part-time job that will offer opportunities to interact with new people. If you live far from family, consider moving closer. Moving into a retirement home may provide an avenue to form new friendships.

“Building new friendships can be difficult at any age, but some seniors who feel socially isolated may have an even harder time,” says KC Ellis, executive director of Copper Ridge Health Care. “Visit your local senior center to find programs designed for older adults. A senior center program can help you connect with people with similar interests and life circumstances.”

It can be easy for people to become socially isolated in old age as family dynamics change and friends move away. Staying socially connected with other people can have a positive impact on a person’s well-being. Make an effort to step outside of your comfort zone to meet new people and have an active, thriving social life. Whether you beef up old relationships or form new ones, your life will benefit from spending time with others.

The Ventura County Area Agency on Aging’s Fall Prevention Program is now registering individuals 60 and older for a variety of evidence-based classes scheduled throughout Ventura County. All classes are free of charge and range in focus from strengthening mobility and balance to empowering information for individuals with pre-diabetes and diabetes.

Classes offered include Tai Chi: Moving for Better Balance, Walk with Ease, Stepping On, and A Matter of Balance. Each class emphasizes practical strategies to manage and prevent falls. Participants will learn methods to enhance and increase activity levels and mobility, making the changes necessary to reduce fall risks. Individuals concerned about falls or those who have recently experienced a fall, as well as those who are interested in improving balance, flexibility, and strength, are encouraged to participate.

Nationally recognized research shows that one in four adults over the age of 65, and half of the population over the age of 75, fall each year. Of those individuals, half will die within a year from complications and injuries sustained from the fall.

Additional classes include DEEP, a diabetes educational and empowerment course.

Classes are available in English and Spanish. To learn more about the Fall Prevention Program or classes offered, or to sign-up for a class, please contact the VCAAA at (805) 477-7300. More information can also be found by visiting www.vcaaa.org.

The Ventura County Area Agency on Aging, an agency of the County of Ventura, is the principal agency in Ventura County charged with the responsibility to promote the development and implementation of a comprehensive coordinated system of care that enables older individuals and their caregivers to live in a community-based setting and to advocate for the needs of those 60 years of age and older in the county, providing leadership and promoting citizen involvement in the planning process as well as in the delivery of services.

Most Americans believe a cure for Alzheimer’s will be developed in their lifetime

A new Harris survey finds a majority are willing to take part in medical research .

A new survey released by Banner Alzheimer’s Institute (BAI), Novartis, and Amgen, in association with Alzheimer’s Disease International, finds that most U.S. adults (54%) are worried that they may develop Alzheimer’s, and a majority believe it is likely a cure will be developed in their lifetime (55%). The survey aims to raise awareness about how volunteers can take part in clinical studies to benefit Alzheimer’s research during World Alzheimer’s Month.

Alzheimer’s is the leading cause of dementia and affects 5.7 million Americans. This number is projected to increase to nearly 14 million by 2050i.The survey, conducted online by Harris Poll among more than 1,000 U.S. adults, revealed that 89% believe the solution to tackling diseases lies in medical research and 77% are willing to participate. However, many (67%) have no idea how to get involved in medical research.

September 2018 marks the 7th World Alzheimer’s Month and represents a chance for people to raise awareness, fundraise and find out more about how they can participate in research.

“We believe that a focus on prevention is vital to safeguard future generations,” said John Tsai, M.D., Global Head Drug Development and Chief Medical Officer for Novartis. “This survey highlights that greater awareness and support is needed to ensure people have the knowledge about clinical research studies to make a well-informed choice about getting involved.”

BAI, Novartis, and Amgen are sponsors of the API’s Generation Program, which is evaluating investigational treatments to help prevent or delay the onset of Alzheimer’s. The program is enrolling volunteers aged 60-75 who are at higher risk of developing Alzheimer’s but do not currently have or show signs of the disease. Information can be found at www.generationprogram.com.

The API Generation Program is the first to incorporate both genetic testing and counseling into the study screening process. Prospective participants referred to the program will be required to learn their APOE test results. Only those who learn they have one or two copies may be eligible to participate in the study.

Information about clinical trials is widely available online and from local patient advocacy groups. Details of Alzheimer’s clinical studies can be found on the Alzheimer’s Prevention Registry www.endALZnow.org/.

The U.S. survey was a part of the larger global survey about Alzheimer’s disease, including 10,000 people across 10 countries. The U.S. findings were consistent with global results.

The survey was conducted online by The Harris Poll on behalf of Banner Alzheimer’s Institute, Novartis and Amgen, among 1,010 adults 18+ living in the U.S. The survey was conducted between July 25 and August 21, 2018. Figures for age by gender, income, education, race/ethnicity, region, size of household, marital status, and employment status were weighted where necessary to bring them into line with their actual proportions in the population.

In collaboration with the Ventura County Adult Abuse Prevention Council (VCAAPC), please join Cypress Place Senior Living in Ventura for a fun, free and educational program on avoiding senior scams.

The Stop Senior Scams (SM) Acting Program uses theater to dramatize senior scams. Members of the troupe, ranging in age from 60 – 97 years-old, write and perform skits based on their own personal experiences. It is a memorable way to equip those who are vulnerable with the knowledge they need to protect themselves.

​Using popular songs like the Rolling Stones “You Can’t Always Get What You Want”, “Getting to Know You “, from the Rogers and Hammerstein musical “The King and I”, Abba’s “Money, Money, Money”, and the Supremes “Stop in the Name of Love”, the troupe brings theatricality, laughter and excitement to a commonly frightening and frustrating topic.

The program was founded in 1997 by director Adrienne Omansky who was a teacher of older adults and adults with disabilities.  The Stop Senior Scams (SM) Acting Program has been recognized by the U.S. House of Representatives and the California State Assembly, according to Nancy Cole, an eldercare manager and board member of VCAAPC.

Also on hand during the event will be vendors who provide a variety of services to the senior population. Attendees will be able to ask questions and receive materials from these corporate sponsors.

This not-to-be-missed program takes place on October 11, 2018 from 1:30p.m. to 3:30p.m. at Cypress Place Senior Living in Ventura. Seating is limited so please call to reserve a seat. Cypress Place Senior Living is located at 1200 Cypress Point Lane. For more information or to RSVP, please call 805-650-8000.

Cypress Place Senior Living is a premiere senior community in Ventura County. The beautiful senior living campus features an Active Senior Living community and adjacent Assisted Living and Alzheimer’s/Dementia Care community connected by a lushly landscaped courtyard.

To learn more about Cypress Place Senior Living of Ventura, visit their web site at www.cypressplaceseniorliving.com.

The Ventura County Adult Abuse Prevention Council is a not-for-profit service organization dedicated to the prevention of elder and dependent adult abuse. To learn more about VCAAPC please visit their web site at vcaapc.org.

Genesis Programs launched its outpatient substance misuse, specialty program, for those over the age of 60 on September 26th. A ribbon cutting ceremony was held at the Ventura Office location located at 1732 Palma Dr.

It’s common for a health care provider or a loved one to overlook the possibility of substance abuse in seniors. The difficulties with diagnosis (as well as social stigma) are instrumental in the staggering increase of substance abuse for adults aged 60 and older, particularly with the misuse of alcohol and prescription drugs.

Genesis is an intensive outpatient treatment provider, with a strong dedication to the community. With over two decades of experiences and a keen eye for those in need, Genesis takes the lead in providing treatment for substance misuse in older adults.

Genesis stated “Genesis Programs is a for profit, however we offer a huge sliding scale to fit all budgets, we help all who walk through our doors regardless of how much they make. Our goal with the new program “Genesis Over 60 Track) is to focus on helping seniors who are going un-treated and to bring more awareness to this growing epidemic in the US. We also partner with many non profits with the same vision, such as APF (Addiction Policy Forum).”

by Patty Jenkins

Come to the Ventura Parkinson’s Disease Support Group on Wednesday, October 10th, from 1:00 to 3:00 pm at The Lexington Assisted Living, 5440 Ralston St, Ventura to find out about the latest and greatest medications and devices for treating Parkinson’s and also the latest and greatest mobility aids to help you navigate your world! And if that isn’t enough to peak your interest, how about a little bit of a magic show also? This special meeting will be both informative and entertaining!

The Ventura Parkinson’s Disease Support Group is pleased to welcome several Pharmaceutical Representatives who will give us a brief introduction and handout materials about the Parkinson’s medication and other medical devices they represent.

We are also very pleased to have Paul Dwork, of Merlin Medical Supply in Camarillo, as our special guest. Paul is not only a pharmacist, but also an inventor and magician. Paul will be speaking to us about specialty products for Parkinson’s, as well as entertaining us with some of his magical skills!

Paul is an inventor of many products that help improve quality of life, which includes the GeeWhiz Condom Catheter for male incontinence.

Merlin Medical Supply is a great source for durable medical goods, specialty equipment for the physically challenged, which would include Parkinson’s, diabetic, incontinence and wound management supplies and other medical aids.

The Ventura Parkinson’s Disease Support Group welcomes the public, our members and their care-partners, and new friends who find themselves navigating the challenges of Parkinson’s Disease and other neurological conditions. We are an independent and volunteer-organized group, not affiliated with or a part of any other organization or group. For more information, call Patty at 805-766-6070.

Thanks to the generosity of the Lexington Assisted Living, our meetings are held every second Wednesday of the month. There is a drop-off/loading and unloading driveway in the front of the Lexington Assisted entrance. Extra parking is graciously available across the street in the Baptist Church parking lot. Reservations are not required. Attendees are invited to check in at the front desk for directions to the 3rd floor and sign-in at the meeting so we can keep in touch with you.

Several participants from the Ventura Police Department, Ventura City Fire Department and Ambulance Services enjoyed a delicious BBQ lunch in The Lexington courtyard. Including Ventura Chief of Police Ken Courney.

“This is a time we can show our appreciation towards the great men and women that serve our community, our residents, staff and families are all very grateful for their sacrifices”. Said, Ronald Agulto, Marketing Director.

The Lexington Assisted Living, 5440 Ralston Street , Ventura

(805) 644-6710 [email protected]

Photos by Bernie Goldstein

by Jayson Cohen American Legacy Solutions

A common problem faced by insurance and annuity holders relates to a need to upgrade to a better financial option without paying taxes on gains earned on the old policy. There are many legitimate reasons for wanting to upgrade. AAFMAA recommends a 1035 exchange to accomplish this objective. A 1035 exchange has a complicated set of rules established by the tax code that must be followed to qualify this exchange as a nontaxable event. Based on the complexity of the tax code and limitations placed on these exchanges, it is highly recommended that you seek the advice of a tax professional before moving forward to avoid possible tax complications.

Factors to Consider When Exchanging A Life Insurance Product

The main thing you must remember is that no cash can change hands for this exchange to legally qualify as a tax-free 1035 exchange. A life insurance policy can be traded for another life insurance product. The tax code also allows for the exchange of a life insurance product for an annuity. This type of transaction is referred to as a replacement. In all tax-free exchanges, the policyholder must remain the same.

It is prudent to exercise caution before moving forward with a 1035 exchange. Not all exchanges are tax-free. Remember that in the case of life insurance policies, if you surrender your policy early, you may incur surrender charges and taxes. Before any definite decisions are made, you need to research the marketplace to determine whether you are insurable. Your health status and age will significantly impact the cost and availability of a new life insurance policy.

What to Consider When Upgrading Your Annuity

When making a change from an old annuity to a new one in a 1035 exchange, you won’t have to pay taxes on your earnings. Immediate Annuities reminds clients that while your taxes can be deferred, it is important to realize that you still may have to pay surrender fees and penalties depending on the terms of your current contract.

After the exchange takes place, then you are free to change ownership. To qualify as a 1035 exchange, an old annuity can only be exchanged for a new one. An annuity product can’t be exchanged for a life insurance product to comply with the strict requirements.

General 1035 Exchange Guidelines

You can exchange multiple old contracts for a single new contract. The IRS code does not limit the number of old contracts that can be traded for a single new contract. This fact opens the door to many possibilities. As mentioned above, the rule about ownership consistency must be followed naming the same owner on all policies. For accounting and tax purposes the adjusted basis of the new contract will be calculated by totaling the adjusted basis amounts of all contracts exchanged.

Conclusion

There is a practical reason 1035 exchanges are so popular. Deferring taxes as long as possible is always a priority. There is no reason to feel trapped in your current life insurance or annuity contracts by tax ramifications. By using a 1035 exchange, you can take advantage of better alternatives while still deferring taxes.

Sources:

https://www.immediateannuities.com/1035-annuity-exchanges/

https://www.aafmaa.com/Decision-Center/Tools-Forms-Resources/1035-Exchange

http://www.finra.org/investors/1035-exchanges