Can The IRS Take Your 401k
Written by Brian B

Can The IRS Take Your 401k

Can the IRS take your 401k and/or retirement money, and what can you do to protect your valuable assets?

Why Is The IRS Trying To Levy My 401k?

Retirement accounts are protected from creditors, but the IRS is an exception here. The general rule to know is that if you can get it, then the IRS can get it too. The biggest reason why the IRS would try to levy your 401k or other retirement accounts is because of back taxes owed. A levy from the IRS is essentially a seizure of your assets to cover that tax debt.

The IRS will typically send a notice and demand for the payment to be made to the individual with tax debt. If you ignore the notice, they will send a final notice of intent to levy which will be issued 30 days before the levy occurs. Before the seizure is made, the IRS will investigate assets you own to see if they have sufficient equity to pay off your tax debt, or else the seizure is prohibited.

The IRS can seize all types of retirement accounts from individuals, including your 401k plans. Currently, there are no prohibitions in the IRS code against it. If your only source of money is taking distributions from money still available in your retirement accounts, the IRS will expect you to liquidate the account in order to pay off the taxes.

Can The IRS Take My 401k If I Owe Taxes?

The IRS is able to take your 401k if you are eligible to take distributions from it. The IRS cannot take your 401k money if you are restricted from taking money from your account, stemming from either plan restrictions or age.

Can The IRS Take My Pension Or Retirement Money If I Owe Taxes?

Yes, the IRS has the ability to take your retirement funds if you owe any back taxes. These retirement accounts can be levied by the IRS:

  • IRAs.
  • SEP-IRAs (self-employment).
  • Keogh plans.
  • Company profit sharing.
  • Qualified pension plans.
  • Stock bonus plans.

How To Defend Your Retirement Accounts

The IRS can only get what you can get, so that means if you can’t access it, then neither can the IRS. Many retirement plans deny you access until you either retire, die, take a job with another company or become disable. The IRS cannot force you to terminate your employment, and as long as you stay employed the IRS cannot access your retirement account. If this is the case, the IRS will begin looking into your wages and other personal assets to pay off your tax debt.

If you have access to your retirement money, though, the IRS does too. Whether or not they take that money likely depends on if your conduct leading up to the tax liability was flagrant or not. Flagrant conduct includes tax evasion, fraud or making contributions while taxes go unpaid. If you can prove to the IRS that your conduct was not flagrant or that you depend on this retirement money, the funds cannot be levied.

The IRS will back off if they can establish that they have no rights to your money. For the most part, the IRS is hesitant to take retirement money.

What Should I Do To Keep My 401k?

The best way to protect any accounts, such as a pension and 401k, is to set up a payment plan to pay any back taxes. However, if you deliberately did not pay taxes, the IRS will seize your money. Proving that you need this money for basic living expenses can lower the amount of money the IRS can take.

Chaparral Winds Is An Independent Living Facility In Surprise, Arizona

Chaparral Winds is a beautiful independent living facility near Surprise, AZ. Being able to socialize with other residents becomes an integral part of many peoples’ lives and Chaparral Winds Independent Living Facility offers common indoor space to support that need. If a resident requires assistance moving from a bed to a wheelchair or vice versa, this facility has staff who can help.

Address: 16617 N West-Point Pkwy, Surprise, AZ 85374

Phone: (623) 544-4777

Written by Brian B

What Age Can You Stop Filing Income Taxes?

What Age Can You Stop Filing Income Taxes?

For tax year 2021, you can stop filing income taxes at age 65 if:

  • You are 65+, unmarried, and making less than $14,250.
  • You are 65+, married, filing jointly, and making less than $26,450.
  • You are a qualifying widow, earning less than $26,450.

The IRS will want you to file a tax return whenever your income rises above the total of the standard deduction for your specific filing status, in addition to one exemption amount. These filing rules do still apply to seniors currently living on their Social Security. However, if Social Security happens to be your sole income source, then you do not need to file a tax return.

When Do Seniors Need To File Taxes?

You need to file a tax return if you are 65+ years old, unmarried, and your gross income was $14,250 or higher for the tax year 2021. However, if you live on your Social Security benefits, you do not need to include this in your gross income, according to Turbo Tax. If this is your one and only source of income, your gross income will come out to zero, meaning you do not have to file a federal income tax return. if you earn additional income that is not exempt from being taxed, though, then you must figure out if the yearly total exceeds $14,250.

For previous tax years, these amounts are based on the year’s standard deduction, in addition to the exemption amount for your age and filing status. When you and your spouse are 65+, married, and filing jointly, you must file a return if your combined gross income surpasses $27,800. If your spouse is under the age of 65, then the threshold amount falls to $26,450. Keep in mind these specific income thresholds applied in the 2018 tax year, and typically increase each year.

When To Include Social Security In Your Gross Income

There are a few circumstances that exist when a senior must include Social Security benefits in their gross income. For instance, if you are married, filing an individual tax return, and live with your spouse during the year, 85% of your benefits are deemed gross income. This scenario may call for filing a tax return.

An allotment of your Social Security benefits are included in your gross income, regardless of your status, in any year the total of half your Social Security, including tax-exempt interest, exceeds $25,000 or $32,000, as long as you are married and filing jointly.

What Age Do You Stop Paying Taxes On Social Security?

You may stop paying taxes on Social Security at age 65 as long as your income is not substantial. Turbo Tax provides all the specifics in this article.

Tax Credits For Seniors

There are a few ways to lower the amount you’ll pay on your taxable income. Tax credits are available for individuals ages 65+, earning their own income from alternative sources than Social Security that is not high. Bear in mind the tax credit only comes in handy when you owe the IRS.

Retirement Community In Surprise, AZ

Chaparral Winds is a beautiful assisted living community near Sun City, AZ. Being able to socialize with other residents becomes an integral part of many peoples’ lives and Chaparral Winds Assisted Living offers common indoor space to support that need. If a resident requires assistance moving from a bed to a wheelchair or vice versa, this facility has staff who can help.

Address: 16623 N W Point Pkwy, Surprise, AZ 85374

Phone: (623) 975-0880

Written by Brian B

Questions For Assisted Living Interviews

Questions For Assisted Living Interviews

Are you looking for example questions for an assisted living interview? Use our list of questions below.

Questions To Ask About The Community

Your loved one’s comfort within the community is undoubtedly the first priority when looking at assisted living options. Their new community is where they can meet new friends and enjoy an array of activities and excursions.

Consider asking these questions during the interview:

  • How are the activities picked for the residents?
  • How many residents typically participate in the activities?
  • What is the social experience like for residents?
  • Do residents usually spend more time in their rooms or in the common areas?

Questions To Ask About Care

The level of support your loved one will be receiving is another vital consideration when it comes to senior care. You’ll want to find a community that offers amenities and services that meet the needs of your loved one.

Here are a few questions to ask about care:

  • Are services available a la carte?
  • What are the services that are included in the monthly agreement?
  • How many staff members are there compared to the total number of residents?
  • Can my loved one transition if comprehensive care is eventually needed?
  • How do your services compare to local competitors?

Questions To Ask About Costs

Beforehand, you’ll need to know what the total costs are and what is included in the senior living community.

Try asking these questions regarding costs and administration:

  • What is included in the monthly fee(s)?
  • What circumstances or situations would call for an increase in costs?
  • What are your emergency handling procedures?
  • Where does the funding come from for this community?

More Assisted Living Questions:

Retirement Community In Surprise, AZ

Chaparral Winds is a beautiful assisted living community near Sun City, AZ. Being able to socialize with other residents becomes an integral part of many peoples’ lives and Chaparral Winds Assisted Living offers common indoor space to support that need. If a resident requires assistance moving from a bed to a wheelchair or vice versa, this facility has staff who can help.

Address: 16623 N W Point Pkwy, Surprise, AZ 85374

Phone: (623) 975-0880

Written by Brian B

15 Best Low Stress Jobs After Retirement

Low Stress Jobs After Retirement

If you are looking for low stress jobs after retirement, check out our list of the 15 best opportunities!

Best Jobs After Retirement

What are you looking for in a job after retirement? Perhaps it’s flexible hours, ability to make your own schedule or work from home. These 15 jobs below can fall into all of those categories. Check out some of our picks for best jobs after retirement below.

1. Focus Group Participant

This is a highly popular task for retirees to take part in. You should consider taking part in a focus group if you want to give your opinion, yet keep the stress to a minimum. Paid focus groups are usually held at conference centers or local hotels, featuring small groups of people discussing new products or services. Online focus groups are very popular as well.

Benefits Of Being A Focus Group Participant:

  • Give your opinion.
  • Try new things.
  • Short hours.

2. Writer/Editor

Any sort of prior writing experience could work for retirees looking for a low-stress position. Today, the majority of these positions can be performed from home. Individuals with prior experience could even find this to be quite a profitable venture. Anyone looking for experience should check online for open blogging positions.

Benefits Of Writing/Editing:

  • Flexible schedule.
  • Work from home.
  • Make professional connections.

3. Career Coach

Younger workers are constantly seeking professional advice. Consider the idea of becoming a career coach and passing down your knowledge and experience to the next generation. If you’ve seen and done it all during your working days, now is the time to prove it! Online video platforms, such as Zoom and Skype, make this a perfect at-home job.

Benefits Of Being A Career Coach:

  • Form new relations.
  • Work remotely.
  • Pass on knowledge.

4. Paid Surveys

This is nearly the same thing as participating in a focus group, but the beauty of filling out surveys is you can do it from the comfort of your own home. There are many companies out there looking for feedback. You can give your opinions on many different websites and get paid instantly.

Benefits Of Paid Surveys:

  • Create your own schedule.
  • Work from home.
  • Give opinions.

5. Musician

Perhaps you gave up playing an instrument while you focused on your career and family. Well, now is the time to brush the dust off the guitar or piano and start playing again. Check online or in the newspaper to see if there are any music opportunities in your area.

Benefits Of Being A Musician:

  • Play live gigs.
  • Do something you love.
  • Form new bonds. 

Senior Musician

6. Tour Guide

This is another popular position for retirees. Being a tour guide is a great job because most of the working hours are only during the weekend and most guides have an intimate knowledge of the local area. Enjoy showing off your hometown and interacting with tourists each and every day.

Benefits Of Being A Tour Guide:

  • Social interactions.
  • Pass on knowledge.
  • Flexible schedule.

7. Virtual Assistant

This job may be perfect for anyone that worked as an assistant or secretary during their career. Virtual assistants are becoming more in-demand now due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Virtual assistants can offer technical and administrative support to valued clients. A virtual assistant can make anywhere from $35-$100 per hour, according to LogicalDollar.

Benefits Of Being A Virtual Assistant:

  • Good pay.
  • Work from home.
  • Interactions with clients.

8. Interior Designer

Do your friends and family often ask for your opinion on designs and layouts? Well, how about making a few dollars doing that same thing, professionally? Look into interior design positions, either remotely or at an office.

Benefits Of Being An Interior Designer:

  • Work remotely.
  • Make connections.
  • Set your pay rate(s).

9. Voiceover Artist

Turn your natural gift into a profit! If you have a strong voice, it’ll be hard to find an easier job than being a freelance voiceover artist. Especially if you are looking for flexible hours, becoming a voiceover artist is perfect for retirees. You may be able to work with television and radio companies in this gig. The good news is you need no formal training ahead of time.

Benefits Of Being A Voiceover Artist:

  • Flexible hours.
  • Work from home.
  • No training necessary.

10. Photographer

Photography is a terrific hobby for retirees with a creative passion. You can start this venture by booking smaller gigs, then working your way up. It may not be long until you find yourself in charge of a large corporate event or wedding.

Benefits Of Being A Photographer:

  • Travel to new places.
  • Creative control.
  • Set your own schedule. 

Photographer

11. Hairdresser

If hair dressing is a hobby of yours, it could be easy to turn this into a small business. Anyone with experience can start this work right from home. Combining your hobby with meeting new people can be very rewarding for retirees.

Benefits Of Being A Hairdresser:

  • Work from home.
  • Set your own rate(s).
  • Meet new people.

12. Customer Service

Especially during the pandemic, a lot of customer service representative jobs shifted to remote work. If working from home is your desire, this may be the perfect opportunity for you. Customer services representative must be willing to engage in phone calls, emails and/or chats.

Benefits Of Being A Customer Service Representative:

  • Work from home.
  • Consistent work.
  • Social interactions.

13. Rideshare Driver

Download the Uber app on your smart phone if you wish to make some money picking up either people or goods. Retired couples may love driving for Uber Eats or Grubhub since both parties can ride in the car while delivering food. With Uber, you have the flexibility to make your own schedule. You will only work when you want to, and when you are ready you will simply log into the app.

Benefits Of Being A Rideshare Driver:

  • Choose your schedule.
  • Social interaction.
  • Good pay.

14. Charity Work

If you’re looking to stay busy without the desire for a paycheck, charity work is the way to go. Typically, charity workers will focus their efforts on a local issue. With this work, you’ll be able to meet others with common interests and make a difference in your community. Thankfully, there are plenty of charity/volunteer opportunities out there. You will most likely be able to set your own schedule and pick up shifts at any time.

Benefits Of Charity Work:

  • Socializing.
  • Work in the community.
  • Contribute to something you are passionate about.

15. Pet Sitter

There is nothing better to do in retirement for the animal lover than enjoying some extra time with furry friends. Whether it’s dogs, cats or birds, you will be able to care for someone’s best friend while they are on a trip. You can either walk the animals, or care for them overnight in the comfort of your own home.

Benefits Of Being A Pet Sitter:

  • Work with animals.
  • Work from home.
  • Make your own schedule.

Pet Sitter

Retirement Community In Surprise, AZ

Chaparral Winds is a beautiful assisted living community near Sun City, AZ. Being able to socialize with other residents becomes an integral part of many peoples’ lives and Chaparral Winds Assisted Living offers common indoor space to support that need. If a resident requires assistance moving from a bed to a wheelchair or vice versa, this facility has staff who can help.

Address: 16623 N W Point Pkwy, Surprise, AZ 85374

Phone: (623) 975-0880

Written by Brian B

65 Getting Older Quotes

Getting Older Quotes

As golf legend Lee Trevino once said, “The older I get, the better I used to be.” Let’s take a look at some of the best quotes about getting older.

Quotes About Getting Older

1. “You can’t help getting older, but you don’t have to get old.” – George Burns

2. “I don’t mind getting older. I’m enjoying not having that raging ambition I’ve had all my life.” – Jeremy Irons

3. “I actually think there’s an incredible amount of self-knowledge that comes with getting older.” – Jamie Lee Curtis

4. “I like getting older. When you’re in your twenties you’re really forgoing for your future. Things take shape later on.” – Crispin Glover

5. “One of the pulses of getting older is you set some limits.” – Nicolas Cage

6. “As I started getting older, I realized ‘I’m so happy!’ I didn’t expect this! I wasn’t happy when I was young.” – Jane Fonda

7. “The dreadful thing about getting older is you cry at the drop of a hat.” – Eric Idle

8. “I’m getting older. That’s realistic. I can’t reverse time. I can slow it down a little bit.” – Jordan Burroughs

9. “If you’re always battling against getting older, you’re always going to be unhappy, because it’s going to happen anyhow.” – Mitch Albom

10. “One of the positives of getting older is that you forget your age. Then you find out that you’re younger than you thought you were.” – Michael McIntyre

11. “As I’m getting older, I’m enjoying my vices so much more because I feel like I’ve deserved them.” – Brooke Shields

12. “You can’t do an awful lot about getting older but you shouldn’t let it stop you from doing what you want to do.” – Vera Lynn

13. “I don’t want to put a pause on the rest of my life; I’m really enjoying getting older and the wisdom that comes from that.” – Rosemarie DeWitt

14. “I’m just getting older and better.” – Neal Schon

15. “I highly recommend getting older! There’s less tendency to people-please.” – Alanis Morissette

16. “I’m getting older but better too. And the roles are getting better.” – John Lithgow

17. “Getting older is a fact of life.” – Goldie Hawn

18. “Getting older is fine. There is nothing you can do to stop it so you might as well stay on the bus.” – John Byrne

19. “If you’re not getting older, you’re dead.” – Tom Petty

20. “That’s another great thing about getting older. Your life is written on your face.” – Frances McDormand

21. “We don’t like to acknowledge that we’re getting older. None of us do.” – Bob McNair

22. “I don’t really have a choice. I’m getting older.” – Annette Bening

23. “As I’m getting older, I’m really learning unconditional love and loyalty are extremely important.” – Bindi Irwin

24. “The biggest lie about getting older is that excitement and growth end with youth.” – MO

25. “Getting older is no problem. You just have to live long enough.” – Groucho Marx

26. “You can’t stop getting older; you just have to keep going and laugh a lot.” -Anita Dobson

27. “The great thing about getting older is that you don’t lose all the other ages you’ve been.” – Madeleine L’Engle

28. “You know you’re getting old when the candles cost more than the cake.” – Bob Hope

29. “A birth date is a reminder to celebrate the life as well as to update the life.” – Amit Kalantri

30. “After 30, a body has a mind of its own.” – Bette Midler

Aging

31. “Please don’t retouch my wrinkles. It took me so long to earn them.” – Anna Magnani

32. “Middle age is when you’re sitting at home on a Saturday night and the telephone rings and you hope it isn’t for you.” – Ogden Nash

33. “With mirth and laughter let old wrinkles come.” – William Shakespeare

34. “As you get older, three things happen: The first is your memory goes, and I can’t remember the other two.” – Norman Wisdom

35. “Old age is like a plane flying through a storm. Once you are aboard, there is nothing you can do about it.” – Golda Meir

36. “Age is something that doesn’t matter, unless you are a cheese.” – Luis Bunuel

37. “I’m very pleased to be here. Let’s face it, at my age I’m very pleased to be anywhere.” – George Burns

38. “The really frightening thing about middle age is that you know you’ll grow out of it.” – Doris Day

39. “I don’t feel old. I don’t feel anything until noon. Then it’s time for my nap.” – Bob Hope

40. “I have reached an age when, if someone tells me to wear socks, I don’t have to.” – Albert Einstein

41. “Aging seems to be the only available way to live a long life.” – Kitty O’Neill Collins

42. “Grow old along with me! The best is yet to be, the last of life, for which the first was made.” – Robert Browning

43. “I keep trying to find my answer to life – and it gets more elusive the older I get.” – Kim Gruenenfelder

44. “Old age is an excellent time for outrage. My goal is to say or do at least one outrageous thing every week.” – Louis Kronenberger

45. “You don’t stop laughing when you grow old, you grow old when you stop laughing.” – George Bernard Shaw

46. “Today is the oldest you’ve ever been, and the youngest you’ll ever be again.” – Eleanor Roosevelt

47. “I don’t plan to grow old gracefully. I plan to have face-lifts until my ears meet.” – Rita Rudner

48. “Every year should teach you something valuable; whether you get the lesson is up to you.” – Oprah Winfrey

49. “Aging is not lost youth but a new stage of opportunity and strength.” – Betty Friedan

50. “My face carries all of my memories. Why would I erase them?” – Diane Von Furstenberg

51. “Youth is the gift of nature, but age is a work of art.” – Stanislaw Jerzy Lec.

52. “As I grow older, I pay less attention to what men say. I just watch what they do.” – Andrew Carnegie

53. “Wrinkles should merely indicate where smiles have been.” – Mark Twain

54. “The longer I live the more beautiful life becomes.” – Frank Lloyd Wright

55. “Anyone who keeps the ability to see beauty never grows old.” – Franz Kafka

56. “Age is not how old you are but how many years of fun you’ve had.” – Matt Maldre

57. “Old age is not so bad when you consider the alternative.” – Maurice Chevalier

58. “Life’s tragedy is that we get too old soon and wise too late.” – Benjamin Franklin

59. “I don’t let my age define me but the side-effects are getting harder to ignore.” – Unknown

60. “No one is as old as those who have outlived enthusiasm.” – Henry David Thoreau

61. “There is still no cure for the common birthday.” – John Glenn

62. “By the time you’re 80 years old you’ve learned everything. You only have to remember it.” – George Burns

63. “Old age is like everything else. To make a success of it, you’ve got to start young.” – Theodore Roosevelt

64. “You are only young once, but you can stay immature indefinitely.” – Ogden Nash

65. “Old age is always fifteen years older than I am.” – Oliver Wendell Holmes

More Quotes:

Getting Older Quotes

Quotes About Aging

Aging Quotes

Funny Quotes

Motivational Quotes

Retirement Quotes

Aging Gracefully

Healthy Quotes

Aging Jokes

Getting Older Quotes

Retirement Jokes

Retirement Community In Surprise, AZ

Chaparral Winds is a beautiful assisted living community near Sun City, AZ. Being able to socialize with other residents becomes an integral part of many peoples’ lives and Chaparral Winds Assisted Living offers common indoor space to support that need. If a resident requires assistance moving from a bed to a wheelchair or vice versa, this facility has staff who can help.

Address: 16623 N W Point Pkwy, Surprise, AZ 85374

Phone: (623) 975-0880

Written by Brian B

Average Length Of Stay In Memory Care Unit

Average Length Of Stay In Memory Care Unit

The average length of stay for an individual in memory care is two to three years. However, based on several key factors, the length of stay can vary widely.

Length Of Memory Care Stays

Figuring out an exact timeline for a stay in memory care can prove to be difficult. While some seniors may stay in memory care for more than ten years, others may spend just a few months in the community. Of course, the same holds true for assisted and independent living residents, but a typical memory care stay is between 2-3 years, nonetheless. The timeline tends to drop drastically whenever an individual enters memory care after receiving some sort of at-home care. A memory care stay may only last up to a year at that point.

Factors Impacting Length Of Stay

Length of stay for an individual in a memory care unit is impacted by the following factors:

  • Overall Health.
  • Unit Availability.
  • Type Of Impairment.
  • Family Support.

When To Go To Memory Care

If your loved one gives off any of these indicators below, it may be time to consider moving them into a memory care unit.

1. Changes In Behavior

Anyone who suffers from dementia will likely start acting differently. While some behavioral changes may be hard to notice, others will be obvious. Make sure to closely monitor any differences in behavior, motor skills or isolation. It’s no secret that individuals with dementia can become anxious, agitated and confused.

2. Physical Health Declining

Physical changes can be the most noticeable indicator of either Alzheimer’s or dementia. At some point, the individual may become obviously thin. Physical conditions can certainly worsen if the individual forgets to take medications regularly.

3. Constant Confusion

Dementia causes confusion and disorientation. Individuals may get confused or lost often.

Retirement Community In Surprise, AZ

Chaparral Winds is a beautiful assisted living community near Sun City, AZ. Being able to socialize with other residents becomes an integral part of many peoples’ lives and Chaparral Winds Assisted Living offers common indoor space to support that need. If a resident requires assistance moving from a bed to a wheelchair or vice versa, this facility has staff who can help.

Address: 16623 N W Point Pkwy, Surprise, AZ 85374

Phone: (623) 975-0880

Written by Brian B

Retirement Party Ideas

Best Retirement Party Ideas

We’re here to provide some of the best ideas for a retirement party!

Best Retirement Party Ideas

Are you in charge of planning an upcoming retirement party? Use these five ideas as a beginner’s guide to retirement parties.

  • Decide On A Party Theme
  • Play Some Party Games
  • Invite Friends And Family
  • Put Together A Fun Music Playlist
  • End With Speeches

Decide On A Party Theme

Retirement parties are the ideal time to look back on reflect on one’s life and career. Picking a unique theme to give the party a truly nostalgic feel is a very popular idea. Perhaps you want to take the retiree back to the 1970’s when their job at the company began! Have party attendees dress up in clothes from the appropriate time period. Gather with co-workers to determine the best possible theme for the evening.

Play Some Party Games

What’s a party without a few games? Playing some games is a must at any retirement gathering. A trivia challenge could be a good idea during the party. Get creative about the retiree’s career by asking a few questions about tasks/co-workers over the years. Or you can have the retiree come up with all the questions to ask co-workers. Either way, trivia time will undoubtedly become a highlight of the night.

Invite Friends And Family

If you are looking for a way to make the party even more memorable, take it upon yourself to reach out to loved ones of the retiree. Inviting friends and family without the retiree’s knowledge can make the night even bigger and better. A great workplace can feel like a family, so it’s time to combine work family and real family in one setting. Encourage friends/family to say a few words, as well.

Put Together A Fun Music Playlist

Without a doubt, every party could use some fun music. Set the tone of the evening not only by picking a theme, but a fun playlist, as well. You can pick between some of the retiree’s favorite songs or simply some appropriate tunes for a retirement party.

These songs work well for a retirement party:

  • “I’m Still Standing” – Elton John
  • “The Best Is Yet To Come” – Frank Sinatra
  • “Good Riddance” – Green Day
  • “When I’m Sixty Four” – Beatles
  • “Hit The Road Jack” – Ray Charles

End With Speeches

It’s been proven over years that the best way to end the evening is with speeches. Let as many friends, family members and co-workers speak as possible. Encourage any speakers to practice their speeches beforehand. And, at the very end, see if the man or woman of honor has a few words to share.

More Retirement Party Ideas

Looking for even more ideas? Try a few of these:

  • Exchange contact information at the end of the night.
  • Host the party at the retiree’s favorite spot.
  • Have a roast.
  • Create a unique party invitation. 
  • Give gifts.
  • Raise money for the retiree’s choice of charity.
  • Set up a drink station.

Retirement Community In Surprise, AZ

Chaparral Winds is a beautiful assisted living community near Sun City, AZ. Being able to socialize with other residents becomes an integral part of many peoples’ lives and Chaparral Winds Assisted Living offers common indoor space to support that need. If a resident requires assistance moving from a bed to a wheelchair or vice versa, this facility has staff who can help.

Address: 16623 N W Point Pkwy, Surprise, AZ 85374

Phone: (623) 975-0880

Written by Brian B

Cost Of Independent Living

Cost Of Independent Living

The average cost of independent living is $3,750 per month. Prices will typically range from $1,500-$6,000. Independent living costs will vary based on location and quality of the community, according to WhereYouLiveMatters.

Average Cost Of Independent Living

Average service rates at independent living communities will cost between $1,000-$10,000 per month. Usually, there will be a one-time fee that comes with independent living arrangements. This fee will cost anywhere from $500-$1,500. Budgeting properly should be at the top of the list of priorities for anyone considering a move to an independent community. Many seniors share the common fear that their retirement savings may not be enough in the long term.

Independent living communities can easily be compared to investments, so it’s best not to let the initial sticker price scare you from this living arrangement. The suggestion is to do as much research and tour as many communities as possible to make the best decision for your situation.

Independent Living Costs

Here is a look at the typical independent living costs:

  • Daily and weekly housekeeping.
  • Scheduled activities.
  • Utilities.
  • Transportation services.
  • 1-3 meals per day.
  • Emergency systems.
  • Maintenance.

Additional fees can include the following services:

  • Guest apartments and meals.
  • Unscheduled activities.
  • Extra activities.
  • Concierge services.

Independent Living Cost Vs Assisted Living Cost

Undoubtedly, independent living costs much less than assisted living. This is due to the extra care associated with the residents of assisted living communities. The average cost of assisted living in the state of Arizona is $3,000 per month, with a range of prices between $1,500-$6,000, according to SLS Communities. Total costs of assisted living services will very much depend on the quality of the facility and location.

There are many costs associated with an assisted living facility, and these options tend to be more expensive than independent living communities. So, what costs can you plan for when choosing assisted living? Many assisted living communities across Arizona will require a move-in fee, which serves as a prorated monthly fee. This cost will run from $1,000 to $5,000, according to WhereYouLiveMatters.

Costs will usually be broken down into two categories: rent and services. Services will include meals and snacks throughout the day, as well as housekeeping, transportation and a variety of scheduled activities. Some communities will offer rent and services together as one package. Packages can often be tailored to a resident’s exact needs and requirements, ranging from activities to healthcare.

Cost Of Assisted Living In Arizona

Independent Living Benefits

Here are a few of the numerous benefits of choosing an independent living community:

  • Senior Friendly Accommodations: With first-rate, apartment living, seniors can move from their higher priced, high-maintenance houses with ease. These communities are designed for easy navigation (whether a resident is mobile, need the assistance of a walker or in maybe even in a wheelchair), compact and free of possible dangers.
  • Senior Social Interaction: Independent living encourages its residents to engage in the community at a comfortable level they are happy with. With year-round events, special movie nights, fitness centers, and a barber shop/beauty salon, all at their front door, they can easily reach out and associate with the rest of the community and fellow seniors.
  • Security and Safety: In the most straightforward sense this means taking care of the access to the community and its residents. This also means guaranteeing that our residents’ requirements are met and emergencies are identified and responded to in a timely matter. Independent living communities they deal with this by taking care of all maintenance, offering twenty four hour safety and security.
  • Freedom Time: The most popular reason that senior’s transition from their own homes to independent living is the freedom they gain. Moving from a large home decreases personal tasks, errands and time spent on their homes maintenance. Residents will also find that independent living gives them the time to pursue other much awaited pursuits and hobbies.

Retirement Community In Surprise, AZ

Chaparral Winds is a beautiful assisted living community near Sun City, AZ. Being able to socialize with other residents becomes an integral part of many peoples’ lives and Chaparral Winds Assisted Living offers common indoor space to support that need. If a resident requires assistance moving from a bed to a wheelchair or vice versa, this facility has staff who can help.

Address: 16623 N W Point Pkwy, Surprise, AZ 85374

Phone: (623) 975-0880

Written by Brian B

When Is It Time For Assisted Living?

When Is It Time For Assisted Living

Loved ones will know it’s time for assisted living when the senior citizen begins showing aggressive behavior, forgetfulness and other warning signs. This article will go over these signs and dive into detail on how assisted living arrangements can be beneficial.

Signs That It Might Be Time For Assisted Living

Assisted living communities are designed to provide round-the-clock care for seniors when family members or caregivers can no longer provide for their every need. Knowing when the time has come to transition your loved one into assisted living is crucial. Here are five signs you need to watch out for:

1. Aggressive Behavior

This is one of the most obvious signs that now is the time to consider some sort of extra care for your loved one. Whenever the senior begins acting out and becoming physically/emotionally aggressive, the caregiver can start to resent him or her. This is a clear and obvious indicator that the care of an assisted living facility is a necessity.

2. Increased Care Needs

Most senior citizens will need the occasional help, whether it is lifting something heavy or reaching an item on the top shelf. Yet, there comes a point where they simply need more help than a loved one can provide. If you are starting to wonder if the senior is safe at home, then it might be time to consider a new living arrangement.

3. General Confusion

Dementia will cause the senior to become more and more confused and begin wandering, as well. Many times the senior will not know where they are or how they got there. Unfortunately, they could also fall or injure themselves in the process. These accidents can happen in the blink of an eye.

4. Not Safe When Left Alone

Anyone suffering from dementia will become forgetful. This could mean they start cooking something and completely forget about it, or lose track of common items like keys and phones. This can lead to some very dangerous situations. For example, the senior could fall down the stairs, start fires or even forget to take medications.

5. Caregiver Burnout

This can be an all-too-common reality. Family members or caregivers can reach a breaking point. The senior’s needs or mood swings may become too much to handle at some point. Caregivers can show signs of stress or depression. Whenever this is noticeable, it’s time to think about an assisted living arrangement.

Assisted Living Benefits

Here are a few benefits of assisted living care:

Daily Assistance

It’s very important for seniors to still have their independence, yet also have the help they need. Assisted living communities provide residents with help, only when needed, with daily living activities, such as eating, dressing or laundry.

Safety

Members of the family will no longer have to worry about their loved one getting taken advantage of, falling down, wandering off and getting lost, eating a healthy diet or taking the wrong medication. Assisted living facilities take every measure to ensure our residents are always safe and protected.

Social Interactions

It’s not that uncommon for seniors to become lonely as they get older. Loneliness in seniors can lead to a lot of issues, from depression to poor health, problems getting around and more. In an assisted living facility, residents become part of a caring, loving, and supportive community. They are surrounded by residents their own age and have countless opportunities to socialize and enjoy the company of other seniors in the community.

How Much Does Assisted Living Cost?

Cost Of Assisted Living In Arizona

The average cost of assisted living in the state of Arizona is $3,000 per month, with a range of prices between $1,500-$6,000, according to SLS Communities. Total costs of assisted living services will very much depend on the quality of the facility and location.

Costs will usually be broken down into two categories: rent and services. Services will include meals and snacks throughout the day, as well as housekeeping, transportation and a variety of scheduled activities. Some communities will offer rent and services together as one package. Packages can often be tailored to a resident’s exact needs and requirements, ranging from activities to healthcare.

Retirement Community In Surprise, AZ

Chaparral Winds is a beautiful assisted living community near Sun City, AZ. Being able to socialize with other residents becomes an integral part of many peoples’ lives and Chaparral Winds Assisted Living offers common indoor space to support that need. If a resident requires assistance moving from a bed to a wheelchair or vice versa, this facility has staff who can help.

Address: 16623 N W Point Pkwy, Surprise, AZ 85374

Phone: (623) 975-0880

Written by Brian B

7 Stages Of Lewy Body Dementia

7 Stages Of Lewy Body Dementia

Lewy Body Dementia, one of the most common forms of dementia, is often confused for both Alzheimer’s and schizophrenia. LBD can either develop over time or generate in combination with numerous other brain disorders, according to nia.nih.gov. Typically, LBD symptoms will not be noticed for a long time. The average lifespan of someone diagnosed with LBD is 5-8 years, yet recent studies have shown 2-20 years is also a possible range.

Here are the 7 stages associated with this progressive disease:

Stage 1: Normal Behavior

The first stage of LBD will yield little to no signs at all of a present disease. No symptoms means there will be zero impact on the individual’s current lifestyle at this point.

Symptoms: 

  • No symptoms are associated with stage one.

Stage 2: Mild Changes

It is very possible, if not likely, that you will not notice any symptoms during stage two of LBD. Memory issues during this stage are commonly ignored or brushed off as a normal part of the aging process.

Symptoms: 

  • Mild difficulty finding words.
  • Normal functioning in and out of the home.
  • The ability to overcome any memory issues remains intact.

Stage 3: More Mild Changes

Stage three tends to be the time where some slight mood changes may become noticeable. You should be able to see your loved one’s thinking and memory issues at this point.

Symptoms: 

  • Problems at the workplace.
  • Forgetfulness.
  • Difficulty paying attention.
  • Trouble finding the right words/names.
  • Issues managing money.

Stage 4: Mild Dementia

Your loved one will experience mild dementia symptoms. Important past events, friends and family should still be recognized by the individual, though.

Symptoms: 

  • Limited knowledge of past events.
  • Problems with daily tasks.
  • Driving mistakes.
  • Issues with problem solving.
  • More problems with finances.
  • Forgetting names or items.
  • Misplacing important things like keys/wallet.

Stage 5: Moderate To Severe Mental Decline

While the individual may still be able to recognize family and friends, they may begin showing increased signs of difficulty remembering past events. Your loved one may require help performing routine daily tasks during stage five.

Symptoms: 

  • Gaps in memory.
  • Personality changes.
  • Mood swings.
  • Needing assistance with daily tasks.
  • Bladder problems.
  • Repeating thoughts/questions.

Stage 6: Severe Decline

Memories will fade quickly during this nearly final stage of LBD. 24-hour at-home care is suggested for your loved one at this time.

Symptoms: 

  • Unusual eating habits.
  • Strong mood swings and personality changes.
  • Getting lost and confused.
  • Continuing bladder issues.
  • Delusions.
  • Lack of overall awareness.

Stage 7: Severe Dementia

Your loved one will no longer recognize friends and family. 24-hour care is essential during LBD’s final stage.

Symptoms: 

  • Loss of muscle control.
  • Loss of bladder and bowel control.
  • Constantly disoriented.
  • No ability to eat, swallow or speak.

Retirement Community In Surprise, AZ

Chaparral Winds is a beautiful assisted living community near Sun City, AZ. Being able to socialize with other residents becomes an integral part of many peoples’ lives and Chaparral Winds Assisted Living offers common indoor space to support that need. If a resident requires assistance moving from a bed to a wheelchair or vice versa, this facility has staff who can help.

Address: 16623 N W Point Pkwy, Surprise, AZ 85374

Phone: (623) 975-0880

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