How To Improve Memory After Stroke
Regular Post
Written by Brian B

How To Improve Memory After Stroke

If you are currently recovering from a stroke, use our 5 tips below to improve your memory.

Tip 1. Stimulate Your Brain Regularly

Try to play as many games as you can that require you to use your brain. The game could be as simple as checkers or as tough as chess. Engaging in any sort of game like this can help you regain your memory.

If you don’t have any board games, there are always several apps that feature a series of brain exercises. Some apps specialize in improving memory and cognitive function in individuals recovering from strokes.

Tip 2. Make Up Mnemonic Devices

Mnemonics are unique ways to remember specific things. Oftentimes, they take the form of an acronym like RICE: rest, ice, compression, and elevation. This is just an example, used by individuals to remember how to treat a sprain. It’s suggested to make up your own mnemonic for daily routines in order to personalize them for ease of memory.

Tip 3. Leave Reminders For Yourself

Leave notes in visible and often visited areas of your home. For example, you could leave a quick reminder note on the refrigerator to take your medication. Use your smartphone or standard clock alarm for more reminders.

Tip 4. Stay Organized

Making it easy to see items needed for daily activities will ultimately help you remember what you need to know and when it has to be done. One easy way to stay organized is to lay out your clothes the night before. Keep both your keys and phone in the same spot at home.

Tip 5. Stay Active

The experts recommend moving around as much as you can daily. A recent randomized control study looked at the impact exercise had on 40 chronic stroke survivors. Researchers concluded that the individuals who exercised saw significant improvement in their memory, cognitive function, and overall recovery.

Other tips to improve memory include:

  • Eating a healthy diet.
  • Repeating information several times.
  • Working with a speech specialist.

About Ventana Winds

Ventana Winds Retirement Community is a member of SLS Communities and offers Assisted Living and Memory Care services In Youngtown, Arizona.

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How Wide Is A Wheelchair
Regular Post
Written by Brian B

How Wide Is A Wheelchair?

While there is no set industry standard for wheelchair width, most models will range from 21-40″ in overall width. Let’s go over each and every factor that may play a role in figuring out which size wheelchair is best for you.

How Wide Are Wheelchairs?

You are actually the most important thing to measure when it comes to shopping for a wheelchair. After all, you will be sitting in the chair, so deciding what is comfortable for long periods of time is step number one.

It’s recommended to take your own measurements prior to choosing a wheelchair. For instance, measure your hips, then add a few more inches for extra comfort. Once you have taken your measurements, you’ll be equipped to accurately choose the right size chair for your needs.

Wheelchair Size Considerations

How wide a wheelchair is cannot be your only consideration. Always be mindful of the following items.

Seat Depth

Start by measuring the length of your leg from the back of the hip to the back of the knee. Next, subtract one inch from this measurement. This number will indicate the desired seat depth to sit comfortably in your wheelchair.

Door Size

Always consider the size of the doorways in your home before purchasing a wheelchair. Household doorways aren’t always as standardized as you may have guessed. Some doorways measure between 23-27″, which means they are not wide enough for most wheelchairs. Doorways that meet ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) guidelines will be at least 32″ in width.

Back Height

A properly sized seatback will help you remain comfortable for longer periods of time. Measure your shoulder blades to the base of your spine. This measurement will tell you how high your seatback needs to be.

Armrest Height

To be comfortable in the chair, you should be able to sit straight up with your arms resting at a 90-degree angle. Sitting in this position, measure the distance between the bottom of your arm and your chair. This is the ideal height of your armrests.

Seat To Floor Height

Most big and tall wheelchairs range between 18-22″ in height. You’ll want to purchase a chair that’s at least 18″ off the ground if you are a taller individual. Start by sitting in a regular-sized chair and using that as your guide moving forward.

About Ventana Winds

Ventana Winds Retirement Community is a member of SLS Communities and offers Assisted Living and Memory Care services In Youngtown, Arizona.

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Fall Prevention Exercises
Regular Post
Written by webtechs

Fall Prevention Exercises

More than 1 in 4 senior citizens fall each year, sometimes resulting in serious injuries. Performing regular fall prevention exercises can reduce accident risks by strengthening key muscles and improving balance.

Best Exercises To Prevent Falls

Always remember safety is paramount with any of these exercises. Have someone nearby at all times if you feel as though you may need some assistance. Try these fall prevention exercises below.

Toe To Heel

  • Start by holding onto a countertop or sturdy chair back.
  • Stand with good posture, rising up on your toes with heels in the air.
  • Lower your feet flat onto the floor.
  • Rock back on your heels to lift your toes into the air.
  • Try to repeat this motion 10 times.

One-Leg Balance

  • Stand in front of a counter or between two chairs of equal height.
  • Hold on to the supportive surface, bending the knee to raise one foot and balance on one leg.
  • Bring your foot back down to a resting position then repeat with the other leg.
  • Try to balance for 10-15 seconds with each leg.

Foot Taps

  • Stand tall with your feet hip-width apart either in front of a step or low furniture piece.
  • Raise one foot slowly to tap the step in front of your body.
  • Now, return this foot to the ground.
  • Do 15-20 taps with each foot.
  • Hold onto the wall or a steady furniture piece, if needed.

Head Rotations

  • Once again stand tall, feet hip-width apart.
  • Move your head from side to side then up and down all while keeping your body still.
  • Do this rotation for 30 seconds at a time.
  • If you start to feel dizzy, you can either pause or stop the motion altogether.

March In Place

  • Stand with good posture while holding onto a countertop or chair back.
  • Bring your knees up to your chest as if you are marching in place.
  • Do this motion slowly and deliberately.
  • Try to rack up 10 knee raises for each leg.

Side Leg Raise

  • Stand with good posture while holding onto a countertop or chair back.
  • Raise one leg out to the side while keeping toes pointed ahead toward the countertop or chair.
  • Use muscles instead of momentum as you do this slowly and deliberately.
  • Refrain from dipping your upper body to the opposite side while raising the leg.
  • Go for 10 repetitions on each side.

Side Twist

  • Stand between two chairs of equal height.
  • Place your feet about shoulder-width apart.
  • Turn, using your upper body and head, then touch the chair on one side.
  • Turn and touch the chair on the opposite side now.

One-Leg Side Twist

  • Do the same exercise listed above, but attempt it while balancing on one leg.
  • Keep hold at all times or have someone nearby ready to help, if needed.

Senior Exercising

Retirement In Youngtown, Arizona

There isn’t a more appropriately named setting for this lively community than Youngtown! Monthly rent at Ventana Winds includes three well balanced meals plus snacks, 24-hour staff, and a daily tidying of your apartment. The offerings don’t end there! Personal laundry is done weekly, transportation is provided for appointments or shopping, a 24/7 emergency call system is in place, as well as a full slate of exciting activities. Check out all of Ventana Winds’ offerings today!

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Aging Jokes
Regular Post
Written by Brian B

50 Aging Jokes

Bob Hope once said, “I’m so old they’ve canceled my blood type!” Let’s take a look at some of the best aging jokes below.

Best Jokes About Aging

1. “It’s not that I’m afraid to die, I just don’t want to be there when it happens.” – Woody Allen

2. “Talk about getting old. I was getting dressed and a peeping tom looked in the window, took a look and pulled down the shade.” – Joan Rivers

3. “People ask me what I’d most appreciate getting for my 87th birthday. I tell them, a paternity suit.” – George Burns

4. “The first sign of maturity is the discovery that the volume knob also turns to the left.” – Jerry M Right

5. “Middle age is when you still believe you’ll feel better in the morning.” – Bob Hope

6. “When I was a boy the Dead Sea was only sick.” – George Burns

7. “You can live to be a hundred if you give up all the things that make you want to live to be a hundred.” – Woody Allen

8. “There is no pleasure worth forgoing just for an extra three years in the geriatric world.” – John Mortimer

9. “Looking 50 is great if you’re 60.” – Joan Rivers

10. “The terror is to wake up one morning and discover that your high school class is running the country.” – Kurt Vonnegut

11. “How young can you die of old age?” – Steven Wright

12. “By the time a man is wise enough to watch his step, he’s too old to go anywhere.” – Billy Crystal

13. “So far, this is the oldest I’ve been.” – George Carlin

14. “Whatever you may look like, marry a man your own age – as your beauty fades, so will his eyesight.” – Phyllis Diller

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

16. “As you get older, the pickings get slimmer, but the people sure don’t.” – Carrie Fisher

17. “I’ve learned that life is like a roll of toilet paper. The closer it gets to the end, the faster it goes.” – Andy Rooney

18. “As a graduate of the Zsa Zsa Gabor School of Creative mathematics, I honestly do not know how old I am.” – Erma Bombeck

19. “At my age, flowers scare me.” – George Burns

20. “My grandmother was a very tough woman. She buried three husbands and two of them were just napping.” – Rita Rudner

21. “I’m at an age when my back goes out more than I do.” – Phyllis Diller

22. “When you are dissatisfied and would like to go back to youth, think of algebra.” – Will Rogers

23. “Regular naps prevent old age, especially if you take them while driving.” – Unknown

24. “The only reason I would take up jogging is so that I could hear heavy breathing again.” – Erma Bombeck

25. “We could certainly slow the aging process down if it had to work its way through congress.” – Will Rogers

Jokes About Aging

Funny Jokes On Aging

26. You’re not getting older, you’re just becoming classic.

27. Old age isn’t so bad when you consider the alternative.

28. Allow me to politely suggest this be the year you start lying about your age.

29. These are not gray hairs! They are wisdom highlights!

30. Why am I getting older and wider instead of older and wiser?

31. The older we get, the earlier it gets late.

32. What goes up but never comes down? Your age!

33. At my age, the only pole dancing I do is to hold on to the safety bar in the bathtub.

34. Aging gracefully is like the nice way of saying you’re slowly looking worse.

35. You know you’re getting older when you have a party and the neighbors don’t even realize it.

36. How are stars like false teeth? They both come out at night!

37. A very happy birthday to someone who is now taking drugs on their birthday for actual serious medical reasons.

38. At least you’re not as old as you will be next year!

39. This year, may you always get up off the couch in two tries or less.

40. Did you know that there’s a prize for getting older? Yep – you get atrophy.

41. Do you want to know the secret to having a smoking hot body at your age? Cremation.

42. Age is a relative thing. All your relatives keep reminding you how old you are.

43. Don’t let your age get you down. After all, at your age, it’s hard to get back up again.

44. This whole birthday thing is getting old, don’t you think?

45. You and wine are the perfect pair. Wine improves with age, and you improve with wine.

46. Age is a number – keep yours unlisted.

47. I’m not saying you’re old, but if you were whiskey you’d be expensive.

48. You’re so old, I heard your social security number is 3.

49. Fabulosity has no age.

50. In wine years, you are extra fine.

Jokes On Aging

More Aging Jokes:

Old Age Jokes

Aging At Home

Aging And Healing

Memory Care In Youngtown, Arizona

There isn’t a more appropriately named setting for this lively community than Youngtown! Monthly rent at Ventana Winds includes three well balanced meals plus snacks, 24-hour staff, and a daily tidying of your apartment. The offerings don’t end there! Personal laundry is done weekly, transportation is provided for appointments or shopping, a 24/7 emergency call system is in place, as well as a full slate of exciting activities. Check out all of Ventana Winds’ offerings today!

Memory Care Package:

  • Three meals per day plus snacks
  • 24-hour care
  • Diverse program of activities
  • Transportation to appointments
  • Bathing and oral care
  • Dressing and grooming
  • Daily tidying of your apartment
  • Laundry service
  • Weekly deep cleaning of your apartment
  • All utilities, including cable TV
Senior Living
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What Age Can You Stop Filing Income Taxes
Regular Post
Written by Brian B

When Can You Stop Filing Taxes?

You may stop filing taxes at age 65 if:

  • You are at least 65 years old, unmarried and making less than $14,250.
  • You are at least 65 years old, married, filing jointly and making less than $26,450.
  • You are a qualified widow, earning less than $26,450.

The IRS will want individuals to file a tax return whenever your gross income surpasses the total of the standard deduction for your specific filing status, in addition to one exemption amount. The filing rules still apply to seniors who are living off their social security. If you are a senior citizen, though, you don’t consider your social security as your gross income. You will not need to file a tax return if social security is your only source of income.

When Do Seniors Have To File Taxes?

For the current tax year, you must file a tax return if you are 65-plus, unmarried and your gross income is at least $14,250. However, if you live on your social security benefits, you will not need to include this in your gross income, according to TurboTax. You do not need to file if this is your sole source of income, meaning your gross income comes out to zero dollars. If you do earn additional income, that is not tax exempt, then you must figure out whether the total exceeds $14,250.

Whenever you and your spouse are at least 65 years old, married and filing jointly, you have to file a return if your combined income is $27,800 or more. If your spouse is below the age of 65, then the threshold amount decreases to $26,450. These figures were implemented during the 2018 tax year, so make sure to check if the amounts have increased.

When To Include Social Security In Gross Income

Certain situations will call for seniors to add social security benefits in their gross income. If you are married, filing an individual tax return and residing with your spouse, 85% of your social security benefits will be deemed gross income. In this case, you may need to file a tax return. An allotment of social security benefits will be included in your gross income, regardless of status, in any year the total of half your social security, including all other income, tax-exempt interest, exceeding $25,000 or $32,000 as long as you are married and filing jointly.

When Do You Stop Paying Taxes On Social Security?

You are allowed to stop paying taxes on social security at 65 as long as your total income is not a high figure. You can read all about taxes and social security rules right here courtesy of Turbo Tax.

Tax Credits For Seniors

Even if you must file a tax return, there are a few ways to decrease the amount you’ll pay on your taxable income. As long as you are 65-plus years old and your income from alternative sources than social security are not high, then tax credits for seniors can lessen your tax bill. This tax credit is only useful when you owe the IRS.

Ventana Winds In Youngtown, Arizona

We invite you and your loved one to come and tour our memory care facility in Youngtown, Arizona and find out why our residents love to live in our compassionate and welcoming community. Take a look at our memory care page to see pictures, find out more about the facility, amenities, what is included in rent, and more. Call us at 623-323-1796 for more information or to schedule a tour of our facility.

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Types of exercise for people with dementia
Regular Post
Written by webtechs

Types Of Exercise for People with Dementia

Local community or sports centers usually provide an assortment of organized exercise and physical activity sessions, like seated exercises, ball games, dance and music, indoor bowls, or indoor/ outdoor swimming. You might be able to use a personalized budget, in a type of a direct payment from your city council for paying for these. Many of the below activities can be altered and carried out at home. Briskly walking, gardening, and housework are also good types of day-to-day physical activity.

Those in the early stages of dementia might experience no new challenges in sports and other physical activities they appreciate. They should be urged to continue these activities when possible.

What is the proper amount of activity in the beginning to middle stages of dementia?

There is no conclusive answer to this question and the proper amount of exercise is going to vary by individual. The Department of Health suggests one hundred and fifty minutes of somewhat strenuous physical activity each week. This equals to thirty minutes of activity each day, for at a minimum of five days a week. This can be broken up into smaller sessions during the day, with each session lasting a least ten minutes. For instance, it might be a brisk fifteen-minute walk to the local thrift store, and then gardening duties or housework later in the day.

Kinds of exercise for those with dementia

Below are some instances of the kinds of exercise that a person may carry out. This is in no way a comprehensive list – any kind of exercise is beneficial.

Gardening

Gardening is a physical activity that offers the chance to get outside and is enjoyed by a lot of individuals. The activity degree can be diverse to fit someone’s abilities. It might be something that requires less effort such as weeding or pruning, or a more laborious activity such as raking or mowing the lawn. These activities can help firm up the body’s muscles and strengthen breathing. Gardening can be a pleasant activity for individuals at every stage of dementia.

Indoor bowling

Some individuals could keep their bowling talents or continue to take part in other ball games, and so might appreciate indoor carpet bowling. Many local recreation centers provide indoor bowling sessions, or sets can be bought at toy or sports outlets.

Dance

Dancing may vary from tea dancing and couple or group meetings to more improvised movement including ribbons, balls, or balloons. Dancing can also be carried out in seated positions. This is a very social activity and an enjoyable way to participate in exercise. Dancing can increase strength and flexibility, assist with staying balanced and nimble, and decreases stress.

Seated exercises

Those suffering dementia can benefit from a routine program of seated exercises at home or with a class at a local course. It is usually wise to see these exercises shown at least once by an instructor or through a video. These exercises are intended at building or fostering muscle strength and balance and are less demanding than exercises in standing positions. They can be part of a growing program, with the number of repetitions of each exercise increasing over time. Some instance of seated exercises can comprise of:

  • making circles with the arms
  • raising the arms upwards to the ceiling
  • marching
  • practicing moving from sitting to standing.
  • bicycling the legs
  • bending the legs
  • raising opposite arms and legs
  • clapping under the legs
  • raising the heels and toes
  • turning the upper body to and fro

Swimming

Swimming, through supervision, is a perfect activity for those with dementia. A lot of individuals find the sensation of being in the water comforting and calming. Many studies have shown that swimming can improve balance and decrease the risk of falls in the elderly.

Walking

Walking suits all capabilities. It’s totally free, does not require special equipment, and can be done anyplace. The distance and time taking walking can be differed to suit fitness degrees. Some local recreational centers and other organizations plan group walks, assisted by a walk leader, of differing lengths, so it can also be a good social activity.

About Ventana Winds

Ventana Winds Retirement Community is a member of SLS Communities and offers Assisted Living and Memory Care services In Youngtown, Arizona.

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Dementia, Senior Living
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How To Look Younger At 60
Regular Post
Written by Brian B

How To Look Younger At 60

Aging is an inevitable part of life, but feeling old and looking old can be two separate things. We’ve put together a list of 20 tips to give you a vibrant and younger appearance, even at age 60 and beyond.

Tip 1. Exercise More

More exercise will improve your blood circulation, increase supply of collagen, and of course, eventually lead to weight lose.

Tip 2. Drink Less

We all know drinking can have some terrible effects on the body. Alcohol has been proven to accelerate the aging process in one’s eyes and face.

Tip 3. Relax More

A lot of stress will make you age much quicker, unfortunately. Relax by doing yoga, talking long walks or whatever you can do to be at peace.

Tip 4. Color Your Hair

For many, finding a few gray hairs may be the first sign of aging. Finding a licensed hair stylist to properly color your hair is the best way to ensure long-lasting results. Box color uses cheaper chemicals that can wear off and make the coloring look unrealistic.

Tip 5. Stop Smoking

This is a crucial step towards your long-term health and your efforts to look younger. Cigarettes, like alcohol, will add age to your face. Try e-cigarettes or nicotine gum if you are attempting to quit for the first time.

Tip 6. Less Sugar Intake

Sugar is an inflammatory food that can show signs of aging on your face. Sugar can also inflame your brain, making it harder to concentrate. Transition from consuming lots of sugar to some sweet fruits.

Tip 7. Always Use Sunscreen

More people need to start applying sunscreen at an earlier age. Using a sunscreen with a high SPF will help avoid redness or sunspots.

Tip 8. Moisturize Your Skin

Dry skin will appear old and cracked. Not using any sort of moisturizer will only highlight the problem areas.

Tip 9. Frame Your Face

Eyebrows actually play a huge role in making your face appear younger. Keeping your eyebrows trimmed and shaped will help frame your face, ultimately drawing attention to your eyes.

Tip 10. Drink More Water

This tip goes hand in hand with moisturizing. Drinking plenty of water daily will help your skin stay moisturized, naturally.

Senior Exercising

Tip 11. V-Neck Shirts

By simply wearing more V-neck shirts, your neckline will look more youthful and flattering.

Tip 12. Whiten Teeth

This is a popular action for seniors trying to look younger. Whiter teeth gives the impression that you are younger than you actually are. Purchase some of the many teeth-whitening products to remove any stains.

Tip 13. Eat More Grapes

Sorbitol gives grapes a sweetness and it is also a substance that attracts water when applied to the skin. Eating grapes will ultimately help your skin absorb and retain moisture.

Tip 14. Smile More

This simple step helps mentally and physically. There is no doubt people who smile appear younger and happier. Smiling more often will decrease the chances of wrinkles developing.

Tip 15. More Hobbies

Spend your time and money on the things you love doing. Whether it’s a golf course membership or vacations, do what makes you happiest.

Tip 16. Undergarments

Undergarments that don’t fit or fit awkwardly can give you an invisible waistline.

Tip 17. Tight Fitting Clothes

Choose to wear clothes that fit a bit tighter than you are accustomed to. The tighter fits tend to make one appear younger.

Tip 18. Build Strong Social Relationships

Forming strong social relationships is helpful for both the physical and mental health of seniors. Good friends can help to boost your energy and overall mood.

Tip 19. Facial Massages

Facial massages will increase blood flow to the face, providing more nutrients and oxygen for tissues. Daily massages of the jawline can keep its elasticity.

Tip 20. Lose Weight

If you apply all these tips to look and feel younger, the weight loss should come naturally.

Senior Running

About Ventana Winds

Ventana Winds Retirement Community is a member of SLS Communities and offers Assisted Living and Memory Care services In Youngtown, Arizona.

Senior Living
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Things To Know Before Moving To Arizona
Regular Post
Written by Brian B

15 Things To Know Before Moving To Arizona

What should you know about the great state of Arizona before moving there? Let’s take a look at 15 things that make the valley so unique.

1. Low Cost Of Living

Of course, there are some expensive places to live in the valley, including Scottsdale and Fountain Hills, but there are several very affordable places to call home in this state. The cost of living in the Phoenix area is actually 5% lower than the national average, according to PayScale. Rent is also affordable in other neighboring cities like Tucson and Tempe. The average income in Arizona is $59,000, currently.

2. Some Like It Hot

If you don’t mind the hot and dry summers, then you will love Arizona’s weather overall. Typically, the climate is dry and sunny throughout the year, with the winters and springs offering mild temperatures. From October to April, Arizona is a paradise for those looking for outdoor activities. The state in general sees a large influx of tourists during these months. Monsoon season is June through August, bringing some much-needed rainfall to the valley.

3. More Than Just A Desert

There is far more to this state than its desert landscape. Mountain ranges are always within eyesight, with colorful cacti surrounding urban areas. With 433 cities in Arizona, residents will find a variety of canyons, lakes, forests and skyscrapers.

4. Monsoons And Haboobs

Every area experiences inclement weather, and the valley is no exception. June to September is Arizona’s monsoon season, where residents will experience strong winds and rainstorms. Haboobs, which are large dust storms, generally follow in the monsoon’s footsteps.

5. Growing Population

The affordable cost of living combined with a booming job market have made Arizona a premier place to live. Phoenix is listed as the 5th-largest city in the country. Scottsdale, Paradise Valley and Sedona continue to grow due to many retirees settling in these areas.

Phoenix, Arizona

6. It Does Snow In Arizona

The northern half of this state will experience some snowfall during wintertime. Areas like Phoenix and Tucson will remain warm year-round, but cities like Flagstaff and Sedona can become winter wonderlands.

7. Great For Sports Fans

Known as a golfer’s paradise, the valley offers many world-class resorts and destinations. From Sedona to Tucson, retirees’ can enjoy their favorite hobby in style. The PGA’s Waste Management Phoenix Open is played annually in Scottsdale, as well. There’s more than just golf in Arizona, though! Residents also enjoy watching teams in all four major sports, including the Diamondbacks (MLB), Cardinals (NFL), Suns (NBA) and Coyotes (NHL).

8. The Wild West

Long before Arizona was even a state, it was home to some of the world’s most infamous outlaws. Many historic gunfights and showdowns occurred in the valley, as well. Many of these old western towns remain preserved, which makes for some great day-trips.

9. Diverse Food And Drink

Have you ever tried a Sonoran dog or cactus jelly? Well, if you move to Arizona you will have try some of their diverse food and drink offerings. Try a Sonoran dog and wash it down with the desert-inspired prickly pear margarita.

10. The Grand Canyon State

The world’s greatest wonder, otherwise known as the Grand Canyon, is located in Arizona. Residents can enjoy breathtaking views of the mile-deep gorge that spans 277 miles.

Grand Canyon

11. Booming Job Market

The higher cost of living in some of the most desirable spots in the state can be offset by an abundance of job opportunities. Arizona features a growing tech industry, with Apple, Uber and Lyft recently setting up offices in the valley. Small and large companies continue to flock to Arizona for its affordability and innovation.

12. Most Sun In The U.S.

The state of Arizona gets 299 sunny days per year, which is the most in the entire country. Even the sunshine state of Florida does not receive as much sun as Arizona. Get a healthy dose of vitamin D when you move to the valley of the sun.

13. Tourist Season

Many people, especially retirees, desire a place like Arizona because it seems very isolated and secluded. This is certainly not the case during the cooler months. This time of the year will bring a lot of tourists to the area. Known as “snowbirds”, these tourists will cause an increase in traffic from October to April.

14. Fewer Tax Burdens

Arizona offers less tax burdens for residents compared to other states. Allowing residents to keep as much of their income as possible has helped the valley grow exponentially for several decades.

15. Beautiful Scenery

Arizona offers much more than gorgeous sunrises and sunsets. The valley of the sun is home to some of the best scenic hiking trails in the world. Sedona is home to the famous red rocks, plus mountain ranges, lakes and desert beauty can be seen all over the state.

Monument Valley Arizona

About Ventana Winds

Ventana Winds Retirement Community is a member of SLS Communities and offers Assisted Living and Memory Care services In Youngtown, Arizona.

More Articles About Senior Living

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5
Levels Of Care For Elderly
Regular Post
Written by webtechs

Levels Of Care For Elderly

From in-home care to assisted living, these are the most common care levels for the elderly today.

What Are The Levels Of Care For The Elderly?

There are six common levels of care for the elderly, including:

  • In-Home Care
  • Independent Living
  • Assisted Living
  • Respite Care
  • Memory Care
  • Nursing Home

Let’s take a look at what care options each level can provide!

In-Home Care

This type of care is designed for seniors who can still live on their own, yet would benefit from some help around the house. Individuals utilizing in-home care usually seek daily check-ins and assistance with any medication or personal needs. These senior citizens will still possess the necessary physical and mental capabilities to survive on their own.

The benefits of in-home care are obvious, as much-needed assistance is provided in a comfortable environment. Typically, in-home care services will not last a long time. Most of the seniors will soon need to transition into independent or assisted living communities.

Independent Living

Independent living in contrast to assisted living is that individuals that still have the ability to live independently will still be able to enjoy being able to access assistance should they need too. Whereas, a lifestyle at an independent living community provides their residents the convenience of accessing medical care, entertainment, a dining area that serves great meals, and so much more…

Seniors can also have peace of mind knowing they will be living an independent lifestyle in a community that offers their residents a safe and secure environment, it will just have a minimal amount of assistance offered. Typically available, housekeeping, laundry, meals, and hospitality may not be included as part of the monthly rental charges.

Assisted Living

An assisted living facility is one in which its residents largely lead their lives independently. They do get a little assistance for needs that differ from person to person, possibly with mobility, meal planning, transportation, hygiene or medication. You might be ready for assisted living if it is becoming hard or dangerous for you to go up and down the stairs at home or if driving is starting to get risky.

Assisted living can be in a residential-type neighborhood or large building. Some facilities allow pets and can also consist of laundry as part of the rent or for an extra fee.

Respite Care

Many seniors are a bit apprehensive about transitioning into either independent or assisted living care. This is where respite care comes into play. Respite care is seen as the middle ground between living at home and entering a new care community.

Respite care is designed for seniors in flux regarding a future living situation. This type of care can last anywhere from one month to one year.

Memory Care

Memory care communities will differ considerably from assisted living communities. The residents in memory care communities have serious memory-related and specific requirements. They might not remember who they are on some days and may get angered walking around spaces that they have lived in but now feel unfamiliar with.

Individuals in memory care units may tend to wander off the campus and can present a danger to themselves and to others, particularly if they get aggressive when they are frustrated.

Nursing Home

For seniors today, nursing home care represents the most concentrated living situation. More than any other senior living community, though, nursing homes provide the most invasive caregiving. Any senior who needs constant supervision or hospital trips, should choose nursing home care.

About Ventana Winds

Ventana Winds Retirement Community is a member of SLS Communities and offers Assisted Living and Memory Care services In Youngtown, Arizona.

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What Age Can You Stop Filing Income Taxes
Regular Post
Written by Brian B

What Age Can You Stop Filing Income Taxes?

For the tax year 2021, you may stop filing taxes at age 65 if:

  • You are at least 65 years old, unmarried and making less than $14,250.
  • You are at least 65 years old, married, filing jointly and making less than $26,450.
  • You are a qualified widow, earning less than $26,450.

The IRS will want individuals to file a tax return whenever your gross income surpasses the total of the standard deduction for your specific filing status, in addition to one exemption amount. The filing rules still apply to seniors who are living off their social security. If you are a senior citizen, though, you don’t consider your social security as your gross income. You will not need to file a tax return if social security is your only source of income.

When Do Seniors Have To File Taxes?

For the current tax year, you must file a tax return if you are 65-plus, unmarried and your gross income is at least $14,250. However, if you live on your social security benefits, you will not need to include this in your gross income, according to TurboTax. You do not need to file if this is your sole source of income, meaning your gross income comes out to zero dollars. If you do earn additional income, that is not tax exempt, then you must figure out whether the total exceeds $14,250.

Whenever you and your spouse are at least 65 years old, married and filing jointly, you have to file a return if your combined income is $27,800 or more. If your spouse is below the age of 65, then the threshold amount decreases to $26,450. These figures were implemented during the 2018 tax year, so make sure to check if the amounts have increased.

When To Include Social Security In Gross Income

Certain situations will call for seniors to add social security benefits in their gross income. If you are married, filing an individual tax return and residing with your spouse, 85% of your social security benefits will be deemed gross income. In this case, you may need to file a tax return. An allotment of social security benefits will be included in your gross income, regardless of status, in any year the total of half your social security, including all other income, tax-exempt interest, exceeding $25,000 or $32,000 as long as you are married and filing jointly.

When Do You Stop Paying Taxes On Social Security?

You are allowed to stop paying taxes on social security at 65 as long as your total income is not a high figure. You can read all about taxes and social security rules right here courtesy of Turbo Tax.

Tax Credits For Seniors

Even if you must file a tax return, there are a few ways to decrease the amount you’ll pay on your taxable income. As long as you are 65-plus years old and your income from alternative sources than social security are not high, then tax credits for seniors can lessen your tax bill. This tax credit is only useful when you owe the IRS.

Ventana Winds In Youngtown, Arizona

We invite you and your loved one to come and tour our memory care facility in Youngtown, Arizona and find out why our residents love to live in our compassionate and welcoming community. Take a look at our memory care page to see pictures, find out more about the facility, amenities, what is included in rent, and more. Call us at 623-323-1796 for more information or to schedule a tour of our facility.

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