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An Invaluable Resource for Senior Caregivers

At Atlanta Seniors Real Estate, we maintain a fantastic lists of resources for our clients — for both seniors as well as their families and caregivers. It saves people valuable time when they’re looking for senior-specific services.

I recently came across another terrific resource list — this one from AARP. It’s worth bookmarking or you can always revisit the list here. Be sure to check out this and other great information AARP provides seniors and their loved ones.

The Georgia list below is from AARP and for the full list, visit Find Local Caregiver Resources Serving Georgia (aarp.org). You can request a print copy of their complete caregiver guide or use their caregiver resource hotline if you have questions.

  • Middle Georgia Regional Commission (478-751-6160)
    • Provides information and referral for a variety of programs serving older adults, caregivers and people with disabilities.
  • Aging and Disability Resource Connection (ADRC) (866-552-4464 toll-free)
    • ADRC designs and manages resources for older adults, persons with disabilities and caregivers. This government program can provide an overview of aging, disability and caregiver services in the state.
  • Atlanta Regional Commission Area Agency on Aging (404-463-3100)
    • The Atlanta Regional Commission works with each of metro Atlanta’s 10 counties to provide services for the region’s older and disabled populations.
  • DHS Division of Aging Services-Long Term Care Ombudsman Program
    (866-552-4464 toll-free)
    • Long-term care ombudsmen are advocates for residents of nursing homes, board and care homes, and supportive living facilities. They provide information about nursing home residents’ rights and long-term care issues. They work to resolve concerns of long-term care facility residents statewide.
  • The Rosalynn Carter Institute for Caregiving (229-928-1234)
    • The Rosalynn Carter Institute of Caregiving’s Care-Net program promotes interaction between professional and family caregivers to further support and provide information to caregivers in Georgia.

Legal Resources

  • Georgia Senior Legal Hotline (888-257-9519 toll-free)
    • The Georgia Senior Legal Hotline, a division of Atlanta Legal Aid Society, The Georgia Senior Legal Hotline provides greater access to high quality legal services for Georgians over age 60. The hotline assists older Americans without regard to income; it targets the economically and socially vulnerable.
  • Georgia Bar Military Legal Assistance Program (800-334-6865 toll-free)
    • This program, cosponsored by Georgia Legal Services and the State Bar of Georgia, provides free or reduced-fee legal services to service members and veterans by connecting them to State Bar members who off er assistance.
  • The Georgia Heirs Property Law Center, Inc. (706-424-7557, ext. 1)
    • The center is a not-for-profit law fi rm dedicated to increasing and preserving property rights of low- and moderate-income Georgians by providing financial assistance and legal services.
  • Office of the Attorney General: Elder Abuse (404-656-3300)
    • The Office of the Attorney General of Georgia has special laws to protect residents 65 years of age and older, disabled adults, those who have Alzheimer’s disease or dementia, and residents of long-term care facilities from abuse, neglect and exploitation.

Specific Audience Resources

  • AARP Caregiving Guides
    • AARP offers free caregiving guides for specific audiences, including guides for military families and LGBT individuals. The guides, also offered in Spanish and Chinese, are designed to help develop and implement a caregiving plan.
  • Atlanta VA Health Care System Caregiving Support (855-260-3274 toll-free)
    • The Department of Veterans Affairs offers a number of services for veterans and their caregivers. Whether you and the veteran you care for could use some help at home or you just need someone to talk to, contact the VA to learn more about the variety of family caregiving services it offers.
  • Georgia Department of Veterans Service (404-656-2300)
    • This state agency advices, counsels and assists Georgia veterans and families in accessing their rightful benefits.
  • U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Caregiver Support (855-260-3274 toll-free)
    • As a family caregiver, you play an important role in caring for the veteran at home and in the community. Each VA medical center has a caregiver support coordinator available to assist you with enrolling in a program local to you.
  • My Health eVet (877-327-0022 toll-free)
    • With My Health eVet, veterans can schedule appointments online, refill prescriptions, view their health records and send secure messages to their health team.
  • PFLAG Atlanta: Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays (678-561-7354)
    • PFLAG is a national nonprofit organization that supports education and advocacy for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people, their families, friends and allies.
  • Community Connections
    • AARP Community Connections is a new website that offers steps to find or give help. Organize online mutual aid groups to stay connected, share ideas and help those in need. Create the Good
  • Create the Good
    • Create the Good connects you with volunteer opportunities and project ideas to share your life experiences, skills and passions in your community.
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How seniors can find a new sense of purpose.

Working with seniors every day, I know that the happiest of my clients are those with a real sense of purpose. Maybe it’s helping family members or neighbors, spending time at a senior center, or doing volunteer work.

Volunteering is a particularly great idea especially when you move into a new area as it’s a great way to meet people and find new purpose. But how do you actually find local volunteer gigs?

Here are 15 tips to help you identify an opportunity that will be a good fit.

  1. Identify Interests and Skills: Assess your interests, skills, and passions. This will help narrow down the types of volunteer work you’ll enjoy. For example, if you love working with animals, a local animal shelter might be a great fit.
  2. Consider Physical Abilities: Take into account any physical limitations or health concerns you have. Choose volunteer opportunities that align with your abilities to ensure a positive experience.
  3. Local Community Centers and Senior Centers: Check with local community centers, senior centers, and retirement communities. These places often have information about local volunteer opportunities that are senior-friendly.
  4. Online Volunteer Databases: There are various online platforms and databases dedicated to connecting volunteers with opportunities. Websites like VolunteerMatch.org, Idealist.org, and Senior Corps provide listings of volunteer opportunities based on location and interests.
  5. Nonprofit Organizations: Many nonprofit organizations are in constant need of volunteers. Reach out to organizations that align with the senior’s interests. Examples could include food banks, hospitals, schools, libraries, museums, and environmental groups.
  6. Churches and Religious Organizations: Religious institutions often organize community service projects. Check with local churches, synagogues, mosques, or temples for volunteer opportunities.
  7. Local Schools: Schools often welcome senior volunteers to help with tutoring, mentoring, or assisting teachers in classrooms.
  8. Hospitals and Healthcare Facilities: Some seniors might enjoy volunteering at hospitals or healthcare facilities, providing comfort to patients or helping with administrative tasks.
  9. Cultural and Arts Organizations: Museums, theaters, and art galleries sometimes have opportunities for seniors to volunteer as docents, tour guides, or event assistants.
  10. Environmental Groups: If you have an interest in the environment, you might enjoy volunteering for park clean-ups, tree planting, or community gardening projects.
  11. Virtual Volunteering: Consider virtual volunteering opportunities to contribute from the comfort of your home. This could include tasks like online tutoring, writing, or social media management for nonprofits.
  12. Local Government: Check with local government offices for potential volunteer roles, such as assisting with voter registration drives, serving on advisory committees, or helping with community events.
  13. Senior-Specific Organizations: Look for organizations specifically tailored to senior citizens, as they might offer unique volunteer opportunities that cater to their age group.
  14. Networking and Recommendations: Reach out to friends, family members, or acquaintances who might have suggestions for volunteer opportunities or know of organizations seeking senior volunteers.
  15. Contacting Organizations: Once you’ve identified potential opportunities, contact the organizations to inquire about their volunteer programs. Discuss your interests, availability, and any specific requirements they may have.

Volunteering should be an enjoyable experience, so find an opportunity that aligns with your interests and abilities.

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How do you know when it’s time to downsize and relocate?

Part of being a Senior Real Estate Specialist (SRES) is taking the time to truly understand a family’s needs before putting a plan in place. It’s so much more than just buying or selling a home – it’s considering whether the time is right to downsize and relocate to a smaller space. This process involves considering various factors related to a senior’s physical, emotional, and financial well-being.

Here are 12 signs and considerations to help determine if it’s time to downsize that I often share with my clients:

  1. Physical Ability: If daily tasks become challenging due to mobility issues, health concerns, or the size of their current home, downsizing to a more manageable space might be beneficial.
  2. Maintenance and Upkeep: If the current home requires a lot of maintenance and upkeep that is becoming burdensome, downsizing to a smaller place with lower maintenance demands can be a wise choice.
  3. Financial Considerations: Evaluate if the cost of maintaining the current home (property taxes, utilities, repairs) is straining finances. Downsizing can help reduce monthly expenses.
  4. Emotional Well-being: If the senior is feeling isolated or overwhelmed in a large house, moving to a smaller, more social environment (such as a retirement community) could improve their emotional well-being.
  5. Safety Concerns: If the current home poses safety hazards (stairs, slippery floors, difficult-to-navigate spaces), moving to a safer, more accessible living situation might be necessary.
  6. Proximity to Family and Medical Care: Consider the proximity to family members, medical facilities, and services. Moving closer to these resources can provide peace of mind.
  7. Unused Space: If a significant portion of the current home is unused or underutilized, downsizing can help avoid wasting space.
  8. Future Planning: Think about the long-term needs of the senior loved one. A downsized home might be easier to manage as they age, and it could also be more suitable if they require assistance or care.
  9. Desire for a Lifestyle Change: Some seniors want to downsize to simplify their lives, reduce stress, and enjoy retirement without the responsibilities of a larger home.
  10. Sentimental Attachment: While emotional attachment to a home is valid, it’s important to consider whether sentimental value outweighs the practical benefits of downsizing.
  11. Decluttering: Downsizing often requires decluttering and letting go of possessions. If the senior citizen is open to this process, it can lead to a lighter, more organized lifestyle.
  12. Legal and Financial Considerations: Consult legal and financial experts to understand the implications of downsizing, such as selling a home, dealing with property taxes, and managing any inheritance or estate matters.

Ultimately, the decision to downsize should be based on a combination of these factors, the individual’s preferences, and their unique circumstances. Involve the senior in the decision-making process and seek input from family members, friends, and professionals who can provide valuable insights and support.

If you have questions or would like to discuss the process of exploring whether it’s time to downsize and relocate and how to get started, contact Atlanta Seniors Real Estate any time.

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Is it time to live like the Golden Girls?

As a Senior Real Estate Specialist, I not only help people purchase and sell homes but also advise families as they search for the perfect senior living arrangement. That may be aging in place, moving to 55+ communities or senior living facilities. These days, I recommend families not be afraid to think creatively.

We’re hearing about adult children building “Granny Pods” or tiny houses for their aging parents so they can be nearby. And increasingly, seniors are looking at shared living arrangements. Yes, roommates. Not only does it help alleviate the financial burden, but it also provides companionship and a support network.

One option is co-housing, where a group of individuals of similar age and interests come together to share a home or a community. Each person or couple has their own private living space, but there are also shared areas such as kitchens, living rooms, and gardens. Co-housing offers the best of both worlds: privacy when you need it and a supportive community right at your doorstep.

Another alternative is home-sharing, where two or more seniors with compatible lifestyles and preferences share a larger house. This arrangement allows you to split expenses, maintain your independence, and enjoy companionship with like-minded individuals. It’s a fantastic way to build lasting friendships while saving on living costs.

Moreover, many retirement communities and senior living facilities have recognized the growing interest in roommate options and have started to incorporate shared living arrangements into their offerings. These communities often provide a range of amenities and services, including social activities, housekeeping, and dining options, making it even more enticing for seniors looking to share their living space.

Kiplinger recently published an article about creative ways to save early in retirement which includes looking at roommates. Read the full article here and explore some of the ways they suggest retirees save or make a little extra money.

If you have any other questions or concerns, please feel free to ask. I’m here to assist you every step of the way! Contact Hilary Walker.

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Planning for a Gray Divorce

A “gray divorce” refers to the phenomenon of older adults, typically those over the age of 50 or 60, getting divorced after a long-term marriage. It’s common that realtors sell homes for couples dissolving a marriage but, with a gray divorce, there are some unique issues to be considered and addressed.

First, why the increase in gray divorces?

  1. People are living longer so seniors may reevaluate their lives and relationships, seeking personal fulfillment and happiness in their remaining years.
  2. Societal attitudes toward divorce have evolved over time, reducing the stigma associated with ending a long-term marriage. This cultural shift has made it more socially acceptable for older couples to consider divorce as a viable option, even after spending decades together.
  3. Changing gender roles and economic factors have influenced gray divorces. Women have gained more financial independence and equality, allowing them to consider divorce without relying solely on their spouses for support. Additionally, economic stability has improved for older individuals, making it more feasible for them to consider divorce without concerns about financial security.

Gray divorces can present unique challenges compared to divorces among younger couples. For instance, older adults may have accumulated significant assets, such as retirement savings or properties, which need to be divided fairly. Moreover, issues related to spousal support, healthcare, and retirement plans become critical considerations during the divorce process.

For women facing a gray divorce, Kiplinger has a guide to preparing for the financial impact.

>>Read the full article here.

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The Kitchen Updates Everyone Should Make Today

By far, the most popular blog we’ve had recently is about Universal Design – the process of making your home accessible for people of all ages and abilities. It creates an easier and safer environment for everyone and has the added benefit of allowing individuals to remain in their homes longer as they age.

I recommend everyone, regardless of age, consider incorporating Universal Design into your home. It’s helpful for your entire family and is a unique and highly desirable selling feature if/when you decide to sell your home. As a Senior Real Estate Specialist, it’s also something I look for when searching for homes for my clients to consider.

A recent AARP article recommends nine changes everyone should consider for the kitchen including:

  • Incorporate smart technology
  • Make it easier to hydrate
  • Making inaccessible cabinet space more accessible
  • A more hygienic trashcan
  • Consider an easier dish washer
  • Induction cooktops
  • Reconfiguring counter space
  • Improve lighting
  • Think about zones

>>Click here to read the full article from AARP and more about each of their recommendations above.

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What is World Senior Citizen Day?


August 21st is designated World Senior Citizen Day which was created by a UN resolution in 1982. The resolution proclaimed the “International Year of Older Persons” and aimed to raise awareness about issues affecting older adults and promote their rights and well-being.

Building upon this initiative, on December 14, 1990, the United Nations General Assembly designated August 21st as World Senior Citizen Day. The day was officially recognized to emphasize the importance of older adults and their contributions to society. It also aimed to raise awareness about the challenges faced by seniors and promote policies that support their rights and welfare.

Since its establishment, World Senior Citizen Day has gained recognition and observance across the globe. Governments, non-governmental organizations, community groups, and individuals have embraced the day as an opportunity to honor and appreciate the elderly population and promote their well-being.

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Consider aging in place with home modifications.

Real estate agents sell houses and help people find houses but, on occasion, I’ve advised clients that their best move may be no move at all. If you love a home and are able to age in place, that may be your best option. I’ll be here to facilitate a sale or purchase when the time comes, but I am committed to always doing what’s best for my clients.

Fortunately for all of us, there are a lot of wonderful organizations who are experts in helping families right-size and make adjustments needed so that seniors can safely age in place.

Senior relocation company Caring Transitions created a brief guide to “Bringing Rightsizing and Age in Place Modifications Together.”

(Posted with permission from Caring Transitions of Northeast Atlanta) As we age, it’s important to consider how our living space can support our changing needs. Aging in place home modifications can help seniors maintain their independence and stay in their homes for as long as possible. Combining these modifications with rightsizing, or downsizing to a more manageable living space, can create a safe and comfortable environment for seniors.

  1. Assess Your Home for Safety and Accessibility.
    Before making any modifications to your home, it’s important to assess your current living space for safety and accessibility. This includes identifying potential hazards such as loose rugs, uneven flooring, and narrow doorways. You should also consider the accessibility of your home, including the placement of light switches, electrical outlets, and other fixtures. By identifying potential safety and accessibility issues, you can create a plan for making the necessary modifications to your home to ensure a safe and comfortable living space for seniors.
  2. Prioritize Modifications Based on Needs and Budget.
    When it comes to combining rightsizing and aging in place home modifications, it’s important to prioritize modifications based on both needs and budget. Start by identifying the most critical modifications that need to be made to ensure safety and accessibility in the home. This may include installing grab bars in the bathroom, widening doorways, or adding a stairlift. Once these critical modifications have been made, you can then focus on making additional modifications that will enhance comfort and convenience. Remember to consider your budget when making modifications and look for cost-effective solutions that will still meet your needs.
  3. Consider Universal Design Principles.
    When combining rightsizing and aging in place home modifications, it’s important to consider universal design principles. Universal design is the concept of designing products and spaces that are accessible and usable by people of all ages and abilities. This means incorporating features like zero-step entrances, lever door handles, and adjustable height countertops. By incorporating universal design principles into your home modifications, you can create a space that is not only safe and comfortable for seniors, but also for visitors and family members of all ages and abilities.

Work with a Professional to Ensure Quality and Safety.
When it comes to combining rightsizing and aging in place home modifications, it’s important to work with a professional to ensure that the modifications are done safely and effectively. A professional can help you assess your home and determine which modifications are necessary to create a safe and comfortable living space for seniors. They can also ensure that the modifications are done in compliance with local building codes and regulations. Additionally, a professional can help you select the right products and materials to ensure that the modifications are of high quality and will last for years to come.

As seniors age in place, it’s important to make modifications to their homes to ensure safety and comfort. Design for aging in place includes home modifications such as grab bars, non-slip flooring, and wider doorways. These modifications can help seniors maintain their independence and reduce the risk of falls.

In addition to home modifications, age in place home care can provide assistance with daily tasks such as cooking, cleaning, and transportation. Rightsizing and aging in place together can also be beneficial, as it allows seniors to declutter and downsize their living space while still maintaining their independence. Caring Transitions offers professional guidance and support for these transitions, as well as assistance with estate planning and other services. By incorporating these strategies and seeking professional help when needed, seniors can age in place with peace of mind and improved quality of life.

If you are interested in Caring Transitions for relocation or estate liquidation services, contact Mike DeLeon.

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Demystifying the Smart TV for Seniors

When I help a family with a relocation, inevitably there are questions about incorporating technology into the new residence. This is especially common for seniors who may not know about or really even need the latest tech.

The technologies they do need are security systems, internet service for computers, and the device they use every day — the television. These days, it means adapting to the Smart TV.

First, what is a Smart TV?

It is a television with built-in internet connectivity and a user interface allowing you to access online content and applications.

  • Streaming:
    Unlike regular TVs, which primarily receive broadcast signals through antennas or cable connections, Smart TVs allow you to stream content from popular services like Netflix, Hulu, and YouTube, browse the web, and even run applications directly on the TV screen. Think of a Smart TV as a television and computer combined into a single device.
  • Bluetooth:
    Smart TVs often feature wireless connectivity options such as Wi-Fi and Bluetooth (you can even connect hearing aids) allowing you to connect them to various devices in your home network.
  • Casting and Mirroring:
    You can cast photos, videos, and music from your smartphone or tablet to your Smart TV wirelessly. Additionally, many Smart TVs support screen mirroring, enabling you to mirror your smartphone or tablet screen directly onto the TV for a larger viewing experience.

Want to know more? Check out Senior Planet from AARP which has a Techspert with articles about technology and educational webinars each month. One of the most recent articles is “3 Cool Things to Know About Smart TVs” is a great place to start and provides step by step instructions on how to connect the Bluetooth.

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Is a niche retirement community for you?

Today, seniors have more choices than ever before when it comes to retirement communities and senior living. Being a real estate agent, we’re often asked about different types of communities, what they’re like, which are most popular, what they cost and the questions continue.

A recent Kiplinger article quoted a lecturer at Georgetown University who sees niche senior communities as the “segment to watch.” It’s certainly growing fast.

There is literally something for everyone and even Disney has plans to get into the 55+ niche community game which already includes:

  • Latitude: In November 2017, when Buffett announced his first Latitude Margaritaville in Daytona Beach, Fla., an active-living property for people “55 and better,” more than 150 fans and other lovers of the flip-flop life camped out overnight at the sales-office for first dibs on 300 properties. Today, Latitude Daytona Beach is a planned community of 7,000 people and there is a waiting list for homes under construction. There is another Latitude in the Florida panhandle, one in North Carolina, and two or three planned for Texas.  
  • Enso Village: In 2016, when the Delaware-based Kendal Corp. announced Enso Village, a life-plan community devoted to Zen tradition in Northern California’s wine country, 1,194 people put down $1,000 for a priority reservation; when the 275 units went on the market in 2020, they sold out in four months; Kendal is now developing a second Enso Village in Southern California. 
  • Nalanda Estates: Near Sarasota, Fla., Nalanda describes itself as an Active Indian Retirement community of 83 homes, and states on its website that it is sold out.  
  • The Villages: Florida’s The Villages–renown as a hotbed of conservative politics and libertine social lives–has sold some 70,000 houses.  

If you’re interested in a niche community, Kiplinger suggests you:

  • Do a self inventory
  • Consider prices
  • Create a budget
  • Go on tours
  • Learn about its management

Georgia’s list of 55+ communities is growing fast and some niche communities that are open to everyone are even offering amenities designed for active adults. Contact Atlanta Seniors Real Estate to learn more about what’s available for you. We’re happy to answer any questions you may have.

>>Read the full article from Kiplinger.

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Why seniors should pass on sleeping pills

Want to feel good, be alert, fight off disease — you must get enough sleep which is a challenge for many, particularly as we age. The numbers of people taking sleep aids to get enough rest is on the rise with AARP saying 12% of those 65 and older are taking medications to help them sleep. It’s a routine that can have dangerous consequences.

Perhaps most notably is that medications causing drowsiness put seniors at risk for falls. Even at night, when many get up to use the bathroom, a fall can cause critical injuries. Sleeping pills can also cause confusion, mental impairment and mood alterations. A recent AARP article says also be aware that even over the counter treatments and supplements can have negative effects.

Other reasons to exercise caution when it comes to sleeping pills? They can mask other medical conditions such as anxiety and sleep disorders. Also, quite simply, there are better alternatives.

Most physicians agree that the best way to start improving your sleep routine is by making good lifestyle choices. Exercise will help your get better sleep while late day caffeine consumption, eating late, and watching television or other devices right before bed will make sleep more challenging.

>>Read more on why you should avoid sleep aids in this article from AARP.

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Stress and Its Impact on Older Adults

Stress can be particularly dangerous for older adults — it can even speed up the aging process and exacerbate existing health issues. For this reason, it’s important that caregivers recognize stress, the effect it’s having on the individual, and know of resources and other ways to address/reduce stress.

The National Council on Aging published a recent article that referenced research from the American Institute of Stress which includes a look at the connection between stress and inflammation.

According to the article, “… more stress equals more inflammation, and more inflammation when we’re stressed equals more (or worse) health problems. These include atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries), Type 2 diabetes, arthritis, dementia, and cancer, to name a few. The same report notes that chronic stress also can reduce the effectiveness of certain vaccines in older adults, including for the flu and pneumonia. And stress actually accelerates the aging process itself.”

>>Click here to read the complete article from the National Council on Aging.

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The Best Places in the World to Retire

Where are retirees truly prospering? In which countries do they have it easiest when it comes to the things we really value when we commit to retirement such as financial benefits and a strong health care system?

In one report, the US ranks 18th and our pension systems earned a not so glowing C+. So where are the top spots? Those countries where retirees are living a little easier? Here are the top five “best places to retire” and a peek at what earned them accolades.

  • Norway – robust pension system
  • Switzerland – read about their Retirement Residency Program
  • Iceland – top rated pension for local retirees
  • Ireland – low crime and low-cost government healthcare
  • Australia – friendly with universal healthcare

Check out this article from Kiplinger that details the top 10 countries and learn more about what it was that helped them earn spots at the top of the leaderboard. It also helps us understand why, according to the article, more than 440,000 retired workers are collecting U.S. Social Security benefits abroad.

>>Click here to read the article.

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When a realtor tells a senior NOT to relocate.

As a Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES), many of my consultations with older adults who are thinking about downsizing and relocating, (a good 10-15% of them) will lead to a discussion about aging in place.

Aging in place can also be about helping clients find a forever home to move to in a new location, which is conducive to the needs of the person and may even help them stretch their finances, depending on how they chose to finance the next place. In some cases though, I consult about staying put… Many wonder why I would do that instead of finding them another home to move to.

Well, the answer is simple… because sometimes the home is already their forever home, IF, and only if, they consider a few changes to ensure the home is better suited to their current needs. My goal is never to move someone who doesn’t need (or want) to move.

Here’s a case study as an example: I visited a lady who had a 2-story home with a guest bedroom and small bathroom on the main floor, and 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms upstairs, which included the owner’s suite. The space was open and spacious on the main level. She had recently become a widow and had paid off the mortgage as instructed by her late husband’s final wish. She loved the community she has lived in for 20+ years but thought it would be best to move to a smaller house. As we talked and did the research, we concluded that the equity in her house would not quite cover the purchase of a forever home and she was not willing to go back to having a mortgage payment of any amount.

The plan of action I suggested was to:

  1. Get quotes to remodel the guest bathroom on the main floor allowing that to become a true main level owner’s suite, accessible for her to live in as opposed to having to go up and down stairs every day.
  2. Get quotes to update the entrances to the home adding accessible features including universal design touch-ups that would allow her to age in place in the current home and not have to experience moving from a place and location she loved and could afford to keep. 
  3. Revisit after getting quotes to discuss the options again and consider if she would need additional information to fund the renovations or if moving would be back on the table as an option and how to do that without costing her too much in monthly expenses.

    My role as an SRES Realtor was simply to advise and refer contractors or remodeling companies that would incorporate the ADA/universal design features, as well as staying in touch to provide additional information until the homeowner had made their decisions.

We sometimes provide services without financial gain.

We always say real estate is more than property, it’s about the people!

We are available to answer questions you or someone you know has about aging in place or finding your next home. Contact us any time.

Additional Resources: AARP article on stylish updates for aging in place.

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Where to buy reading glasses online.

As we age, many of us will need a little help with the fine print. If you find yourself with age-related changes in your vision, you’ll likely find yourself in search of reading glasses. You can order them online and have them delivered to your door. And you can have extra features added to the reading glasses.

Who has the best customer service? Which company is best for the blue-light blocking readers? What about most affordable or the company with fun options?

The National Council on Aging did the research and discovered the best places to buy reading glasses online. Here are their picks – 5 Best Online Reading Glasses Retailers in 2023 | NCOA.

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Factors seniors consider when relocating.

Today’s retirees are on the move. Crime, traffic and more and sending many of them away from the cities they’ve lived in for decades but how do they decide where to move next?

A great article called “Politics and Pickleball” looks at some active seniors who searched for their next home but looked at much more than the real estate. The article says that while they consider proximity to family, recreational opportunities, cultural events, and climate, the surprising factor increasingly cited by retirees is — politics.

Some want a state with politics more in line with their own perspectives while others were interested in the opportunities created by being in a place where their own politics may not be the majority.

Read the full article on NextAvenue.org.

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Handing storm damage insurance claim issues

This time of year in the south, homeowners brace for spring storms and tornadoes. It’s time to prepare and ensure you know what to do if your home or property sustains damage. Know the process and your rights ahead of time — be prepared.

If the process gets bogged down and you’re not getting the results you want, you need to know what to do next.

Kiplinger is out with a brief Q&A to help you navigate dealing with insurance claims for storm damage including:

  • Do I need an attorney?
  • When do you file a complaint against an insurer?
  • Do you need a public adjuster?
  • What if my claim involves an RV?

>>Click here to read the article in its entirety from Kiplinger.

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Do unpaid caregivers need more support?

It has subtle beginnings. A parent or loved one needs a little help taking care of themselves or getting to appointments. Then, as days go by, you realize that care provided by a child or loved one has expanded and requires a significant amount of time and energy.

Family caregivers are critical for caring for people as they age, but some argue that more compensation is needed for those caregivers who often are also balancing a job and their own responsibilities at home.

AARP found that family caregivers provide $600 Billion in unpaid care across the United States. In a recent article, AARP spells it out clearly, “Time is money. No one knows this better than the nation’s 38 million family caregivers who devote 36 billion hours of free care to older parents, spouses, partners and friends with chronic, disabling and serious health conditions. Family caregivers are the backbone of the long-term care system in the U.S. But with over 60 percent of family caregivers working either full-time or part-time — and 30 percent living with a child or grandchild — they need and deserve more assistance from city, state and federal governments, says the report. For instance, states can expand caregiving tax credits and workplaces can adapt more family-friendly policies such as paid family leave.”

The organization wants to see Congress take action to help ease the burden faced by this country’s family caregivers.

>>Click here to read the article and learn more about what AARP is doing.

>>Also, learn about the National Strategy to Support Family Caregivers.

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What is the Qualified Medicare Beneficiary program?

Seniors and their caregivers know very well how quickly Medicare expenses can add up. There is relief for some seniors who are living on a low or fixed income. The Qualified Medicare Beneficiary (QMB) is designed to help save money on visits to physicians, medical procedures, and hospital stays.

There is a lot of information to know about QMB but the National Council on Aging does a fantastic job of answering questions including:

  • What is QMB and what is QMB Plus?
  • Who qualifies?
  • What are the benefits?
  • What does it cover?
  • Where do you find information on income limits?

>>Click here to read more about QMB and discover whether it can help you or someone you care for.

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How Physical Therapy Can Prevent Health Issues

We tend to think of physical therapy as something prescribed for recovery from an injury but, many feel PT can also be an important tool in preventative care by optimizing movement and promoting health, wellness and fitness.

A recent National Council on Aging article points out that “a physical therapist can make a meaningful impact in your life by helping you to stay independent so you can do the things that matter the most.”

The Council on Aging article answers questions including:

  • How do you set up a preventative PT visit?
  • How often you should see a physical therapist?
  • Who pay? Is it covered?

>>Click here to read the article and see other great resources from the National Council on Aging.

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States that tax retirement distributions

You’ve saved for this point in your life. You’ve socked away money in retirement accounts for years, so you want to maximize the money you are able to take out and live on.

Some states have no income tax and some tax retirement distributions while others do not. AARP is out with a guide to which states will tax money from your IRA or pension and it includes information about what those taxes are. If you’re looking to downsize and relocate, it’s worth knowing which states will be more tax-friendly to retirees living on retirement funds.

>>Click here to see the AARP guide.

Ready to relocate or need other resources as you prepare for a move? Contact Atlanta Seniors Real Estate for assistance or we’re happy to answer your questions.

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A Guide to Senior Housing Options

It’s time for a move — perhaps it’s downsizing or moving into housing that offers a level of care that you or a loved one needs. There have never been more options for senior living than now, but with so many choices can come quite a bit of confusion.

The list includes:

RETIREMENT LIVING

  • Retirement/Active Adult Communities
  • Senior Apartments
  • Senior Cohousing

LONG TERM CARE

  • Assisted Living
  • In-Home Senior Care
  • Active Senior Housing
  • Independent Living
  • Continuing Care Communities
  • Congregational Retirement Communities
  • Nursing Homes
  • Specialized Care
  • Hospice

How do you know which type is right for you? Do you know the questions to ask? SeniorLiving.org is out with an update to its Senior Living Guide. They do a great job of explaining the differences between different options. Then, when it’s time to sell your home and relocate, contact a Senior Real Estate Specialists like Atlanta Senior Real Estate to help you with options in your own community.

>>Check out the Guide and look for options in your area.

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Income Tax Filing Assistance for Seniors

You may have heard of VITA or Volunteer Income Tax Assistance coalition which offers seniors and others tax preparation assistance. Volunteers offer free basic online tax preparation help to qualified individuals. There is also a program called TCE or Tax Counseling for the Elderly.

VITA and TCE sites are generally located at community and neighborhood centers, libraries, schools, shopping malls and other convenient locations across the country. To locate the nearest VITA or TCE site near you, use the VITA Locator Tool or call 800-906-9887.

VITA/TCE Locator Tool

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8 Common Estate Plan Mistakes

You have taken the time to make an estate plan but often they are fraught with issues that can cause problems for your loved ones down the road if you are incapacitated or pass away. AARP is out with a list of 8 common estate planning mistakes below — important points to check against the estate plan you do have.

If you don’t have a plan, this is the time to make one. And if you do have a plan, it’s suggested that you continue to update it as things change in your life.

Here are AARPs 8 common estate planning mistakes.

  1. Is it complete? Has it been executed or updated?
  2. Do you completely understand your plan? Will it be used as intended?
  3. If there are investments you plan to leave to someone, ensure you own them.
  4. Ensure your plan complies with current laws.
  5. Are you beneficiary designations consistent in all documents?
  6. Will gifts you leave to loved ones cause issues?
  7. Understand tax consequences of your estate plan.
  8. Make sure your loved ones are informed about your plans.
    AARP suggests a digital accounts access guide.

>>Click here to read more about each of the 8 mistakes and more tips from AARP about your estate planning.