Showing posts with label orlando. Show all posts
Showing posts with label orlando. Show all posts

Sunday, September 28, 2014

Smartphone, iPad, and Tablet Tips and Advice for Orlando Seniors

by Michele Moon

Regardless of where you live - be it an assisted living community, your own house in Oviedo, a Winter Park apartment, or with adult children in Orlando - technology has a way of making the world smaller, helping you to communicate with friends and family, and even manage your schedule and life.

It can be especially helpful in the effort to help older seniors age-in-place (remain living in their own homes independently) as innovations like smartphones and tablets make it far easier for older adults to embrace technology and remain in touch with family caregivers. The many applications (apps) available for both phones and tablets can really be a boost for adult children/family caregivers - even for those who are trying to help Mom or Dad on a long-distance basis.

I thought I'd post a couple of videos and other resources that help explain some of the ways in which smartphones, tablets, and apps can play a role in serving seniors and caregiver families in Orlando and all of Central Florida.


















I've also come across a website for seniors run by a 74-year-old woman named Sheila Finkelstein. Check it out to get free answers to technology questions.


Considering selling a house in Orlando, Oviedo, Winter Park, Winter Springs, Casselberry, or anywhere across Central Florida? 



Tuesday, September 2, 2014

Volunteer with the Foster Grandparent Program of Central and East Central Florida

by Michele Moon

As professionals who serve seniors in Central Florida, we thought it was pretty important to help spread awareness of this very cool program that helps so many people on several different levels.

The Foster Grandparent Program of Central and East Central Florida recruits and trains limited-income seniors, ages 55 or older, to provide 20 hours per week of one-on-one attention to special needs children in Orange, Seminole, Volusia, Flagler, and Osceola Counties.


Senior volunteers in Orlando, Florida receive a small, non-taxable stipend of $2.65 hourly for a minimum of 20 hours weekly helping to nurture and enhance the lives of special needs kids across Orlando and the entire area.

Typically, a foster grandparent will devote 4 hours daily, 5 days per week, at one of more than 100 locations in Central Florida ranging from schools, hospitals, drug treatment centers, correctional institutions, Head Start centers, after-school programs, and residential facilities.


In addition to the stipend, participating volunteers receive transportation assistance, meals while on duty, supplemental accident and liability coverage while they are serving and annual recognition.

Again, keep in mind that there are income eligibility requirements for senior volunteers, as this program is designed to help fixed-income seniors in Central Florida who can benefit from a little more tax-free income each month.

From Fairview Head Start


Of course, in addition to the small financial benefit, serving as a Foster Grandparent is a stellar way to give back to the community, stay busy, and help children who need it more than most!

Volunteers for Community Impact runs the program and is also the sponsoring agency for RSVP (Retired and Senior Volunteer Program).


As Certified Senior Housing Professionals (Oviedo and Orlando real estate agents who specialize in serving adults 55+) we at the Estate Conversions Team of Keller Wiliams Realty regularly chat with seniors who could use a little extra cash and long to remain active and helpful in their communities.


If we may at any time be of service or offer you any advice on senior housing or other issues pertaining to adults 55+ in central Florida - from Winter Park to Oviedo to Winter Springs to Lake Mary - please feel free to contact us here!


Saturday, July 26, 2014

Free Family Caregivers Kit: Information and Help for Orlando Seniors or Their Family Caregivers

by Lisa D'Aloise

A few years ago, the newspaper advice columnist Dear Abby (Abigail Van Buren) and the U.S. government teamed up to promote the free "Family Caregivers Kit," a collection of brochures and information designed to help family caregivers in Orlando and elsewhere navigate the maze of issues and concerns faced by older seniors and those who care for them.


While the brochures are no longer available by mail in hard copy form, they are available online for viewing.



As Certified Senior Housing Professionals in Oviedo, Orlando, and all across Orange County, Florida, Michele and I - the Estate Conversions Team of Keller Williams Realty - wanted to make sure you had easy access to all these resources and solid information.












At Orlando Senior Housing, we help Central Florida seniors or their family caregivers learn how to age-in-place or prepare for a late-in-life move from a larger home to a smaller apartment or senior housing community. We provide end-to-end advice, organization, and service for the entire move, including selling an Orlando house. Contact Michele Moon or Lisa D'Aloise for a no-obligation analysis and casual chat.

3 beds, 2 baths, $225,000


DRIVE...BUY!!! This home has been lovingly cared for and it shows! The floor plan is ideal and features a spacious living room and dining room off the foyer and an open kitchen and family room combo. The screen porch has nice brick pavers, a gas line and overlooks a scenic POND and CONSERVATION area.


Saturday, July 19, 2014

Review: Oviedo, Florida Senior Living Community: Savannah Court and Savannah Cottage

This is part of our continuing tour and review of senior living communities near Orlando in Central Florida. As Certified Senior Housing Professionals (real estate agents who specialize in working with older adults and their caregiver families) part of our service is focused on having full knowledge of Orlando Senior Housing options and understanding where best to refer our senior clients who are considering a late-in-life move.

We (Lisa D'Aloise and I) recently stopped in to visit with the folks at Savannah Court and Savannah Cottage, two distinct - yet equally exceptional - assisted living communities in Oviedo, Florida, just a few miles from I-4 and minutes from metro Orlando.

Linda Johnson

We had a great time with Linda Johnson, who is simply full of great energy and information! (We call her the "commander of communications.") The community's Marketing Director, Sandra Rivera, is also wonderful and loaded with details and advice.



The first thing you'll notice when you pull up to the campus is that there are three adjacent - yet unique - communities, each situated just a sidewalk apart.

Two of them offer full, senior assisted living options in Florida while the third - Savannah Cottage - is a secure environment dedicated to Alzheimer's care, dementia, and similar memory-impaired residents.


Orlando family caregivers will also find Savannah Court and Savanna Cottage to be a helpful resource in the areas of respite care and senior day care services. Their respite care program in Florida is available for those who need a senior housing option for several weeks or even several months. It's ideal for family caregivers who require a safe spot for their loved one to stay for a short period of time - even just a week or two while the family caregiver relaxes on a much-deserved vacation or attends to other business or personal matters.



The senior day care program serves as an option for impaired seniors to spend the day - typically no more than 8 hours.


Services and amenities available to all residents include:

24 hour access to trained caring associates
Restaurant-style dining
Linen and housing services
Emergency response system
Diverse activities program designed to enhance daily living
Scheduled transportation to shopping, medical appointments and other outings
Medical appointment scheduling
Utilities are included - telephone and extended cable television service is optional
Climate controlled air conditioning and heating
Spacious bathrooms and kitchenettes
Common areas and suites with beautiful views and manicured landscaping for your enjoyment
Supervision with activities of daily living
Supervision of self administration of medications

If you're an older, senior adult of the adult child of an elder who requires a move to senior housing in the Orlando area, please feel free to contact us - Michele and Lisa of the Estate Conversions Team of Keller-Williams Realty and Orlando Senior Housing. There is no-obligation and we'll be happy to offer you advice in any area or on any challenge that you may be facing as a senior or the caregiver of a senior.


If you need our help selling a family home we'll be happy to provide that. But we're also happy to offer advice and suggestions in other matters that may be helpful and an enhancement to the lives of both seniors and their adult children/family caregivers from Oviedo to Winter Park to Altamonte Springs to Orlando.







Monday, July 7, 2014

Sharing Info on Senior Housing at the National Federation of the Blind Convention in Orlando

by Michele Moon

It goes without saying that Orlando-area seniors who suffer from vision loss face an extra difficulty when it comes time to leave a family home and move to a retirement community, mother-in-law cottage, or smaller apartment.

That's a big reason that my colleague Lisa D'Aloise and I were thrilled last week to both speak and share our knowledge on simplifying senior moves at the annual National Federation of the Blind convention in Orlando.



Lisa sat and shared her information on the panel entitled "Empowerment: Options for Senior Living" with Jennifer Cochran of Visiting Angels, Rachel Alvarez of the Alvarez Law Firm, and Patty Antony of Elder Advocates to discuss whether seniors should "Age in Place" and find assistive care as needed, or move into senior housing in Oviedo, Winter Springs, Winter Park, or anywhere in Central Florida.



Later, I addressed a meeting of leaders of the National Federation of the Blind and provided an overview of the challenges faced by seniors during a late in life move and educated them on the process, allowing those leaders to better share the information with their membership and local chapters of the NFB.


I'd like to offer a special thanks to Ruth Sager, President of the Seniors division of the National Federation of the Blind for being so nice as to invite Lisa and I to speak at the convention.

She shared a gift bag with each of us and presented me with a Braille bracelet with the word "Joy" written on it in braille - a very sweet nod to the fact that I always sign off my emails with the word "joyfully."

Michelle Moon (L) Ruth Sager (R)


Lisa and I are blessed to meet so many great people and to be able to offer what we've learned to seniors and their caregiver families who need assistance with downsizing or a late-in-life move to a new home, be it senior housing in Oviedo, an Orlando retirement community, or the home of a family member.

If we - the Estate Conversions Team and Orlando Senior Housing - may offer you any advice, please contact us anytime for a chat.



LOOKING FOR SPACE? Hurry in to see this spacious two-story home on a quiet CUL DE SAC! A stunning foyer, with curved staircase welcomes you home! This flexible floor plan features a formal living room, which could be a great office or play room, a large formal dining room with crown molding and a kitchen overlooking the family room. The kitchen has GRANITE counter tops, STAINLESS STEEL appliances, and CENTER ISLAND. The sliding glass doors open onto a long, screened porch overlooking a huge pie shaped back yard. Upstairs is a BONUS ROOM, which could easily be made the fourth bedroom. The master can accommodate king sized furniture and features two closets, a garden tub and a granite counter top. The exterior was just painted and the A/C was replaced in 2008. Residents of Andover Lakes enjoy close proximity to expressways, UCF, downtown Orlando and Waterford Lakes Towne Center shopping and dining.

Thursday, June 19, 2014

Press Release: Michele Moon and Lisa D'Aloise to Speak at National Federation of the Blind Convention in Orlando

For Immediate Release:
June 20, 2014

Orlando Senior Housing Experts to Speak at National Federation of the Blind Convention


Orlando, FL: Central Florida senior housing experts Lisa D'Aloise and Michele Moon of Orlando Senior Housing and the Estate Conversions Team of Keller Williams Realty will be among the panelists and speakers at the National Federation of the Blind Convention in Orlando July 1 to July 6, 2014.

D'Aloise will be among the experts on the panel entitled "Empowerment: Options for Senior Living". That discussion will take place between 1-4 pm on Tuesday, July 1, 2014 at Salon 20 on Level 2 of the Rosen Centre Hotel and Orange County Convention Center. Conversation will focus on whether seniors should "Age in Place" and find assistive care as needed, or move into senior housing. Other panelists include Jennifer Cochran of Visiting Angels, Rachel Alvarez of the Alvarez Law Firm, and Patty Antony of Elder Advocates. Attendees will discover what to learn before moving and what questions to ask.

Meanwhile, Moon has been invited to speak to leaders of the National Federationof the Blind at 2:30 on Thursday, July 3 during the session "Knowledge is Empowerment: Seniors Division." She will provide an overview of the challenges faced by seniors during a late in life move and educate them on the process, allowing those leaders to better share the information with their membership and local chapters of the NFB. Her address will also take place in Salon 20 on Level 2 of the hotel and convention center.

"Lisa and I are honored that the National Federation of the Blind has asked us to help educate so many people during such a large, national convention," said Moon. "It's a natural part of our philosophy of being of the utmost service to - and working as advocates for - seniors who need to transition to a new phase of housing. Obviously, seniors who also suffer from vision loss face an even more distinct challenge, so we're excited to do what we can to help them prepare for the process."

D'Aloise and Moon specialize in real estate services for adults 55+ in the Orlando area. Michele is a Senior Real Estate Specialist of the National Association of Realtors and both she and Lisa are Certified Senior Housing Professionals of the Seniors Real Estate Institute. Michele also serves as a trainer with the Institute, traveling the country and educating other Realtors in how best to super-serve their senior clientele. They also publish the local, senior resource OrlandoSeniorHousing.com

Press Inquiries:

Michele Moon
Orlando Senior Housing
(321) 689-8339



Thursday, June 12, 2014

Angels' Story: How We Help Seniors and Their Families Arrange a Move and Sell a House

by Michele Moon

Angela called us the other day. She was worried about her 77-year-old mother, Lois, who resides in Oviedo and had been showing signs of quickly slowing down and perhaps being unable to remain living on her own in the two-bedroom ranch she's owned for the past two decades.

Lois had been spry and energetic until a couple of years ago when Angela – who lives far away in Maryland – had visited Mom for the holidays and noticed signs that she wasn't eating properly and was unable to maintain basic, household chores like cleaning, laundry and the usual, mundane tasks.


Concerned, Angela had arranged for visits and help from an Orlando home health care company and that seemed to help. But recently the company alerted Angela that her mother seemed to be deteriorating and suggested that she begin investigating other options: specifically moving her mother to an Orlando assisted living facility.

She quickly jumped to the phone and Internet, began researching and calling Central Florida retirement communities and immediately came face-to-face with what was quickly growing to an overwhelming task.

How could she – hundreds of miles away in Baltimore – properly handle everything that needed arranged and investigated before transitioning her mom to an assisted living community? On top of the geographic constraints, she groaned at the things that needed accomplished.


To help with financing the care at the senior community, Lois' house needed to be sold. And there were a wide variety of other financial issues that also needed addressed. Angela discovered she needed to work with her mom's financial adviser, hire an elder law attorney, handle Social Security and pension issues, hire a good real estate agent, manage an estate auction, hire a trash hauling company, arrange for storage, work with a handyman to fix the house in preparation for a sale, and countless other issues.


Then there were all the emotional and family problems: How could she convince her mother to make the move, especially when Lois broke down, cried, and adamantly refused. Angela's brother – who lives in Texas – was also against the idea and he and Angela had exchanged heated words about the entire problem. She needed help in explaining the entire, broad picture to her family. But where could she start?

That's when Angela called us. She came across our information online and chose to reach out to my partner – Lisa D'Aloise – and I at the Estate Conversions Team of KellerWilliams Realty.

She noted that not only were we experienced Orlando and Oviedo real estate agents, but we were Certified Senior Housing Professionals and highly-trained and experienced in working with seniors and their adult children when the time came to sell the house of an older adult.

Beginning preparations to sell the house was Angela's first priority, but she wanted to know what kind of help we could offer with all of the problems mentioned above.

Our answer? All of it.

That's what we do. As Certified Senior Housing Professionals of The Seniors Real Estate Institute, selling homes for seniors is our specialty. But we go far beyond that. Our training and experience has shown us how to help caregiver families work their way through a process that can be so overwhelming during a late-in-life move for their Mom, Dad, or other loved one.

That includes sharing ways to bring the family to consensus, what to look for when choosing an Orlando retirement community, checklists for the entire move process, help and recommendations in what assisted living communities may be right for you, guidance in finding the right professionals (like attorneys, guardians, probate specialists) and other necessary vendors like estate auctions, movers, and plenty more.


Most importantly, we are trained to do far more than just refer you to these other providers. Instead, we serve as the hub of your entire move, managing everyone involved from start to finish.

Our primary goal is to be your advocate and partner and help a senior through this late-in-life move with dignity and the least amount of hassle possible.


For information and a chat concerning your unique situation, contact us for more information.



Thursday, June 5, 2014

Orlando Senior Community Review: The Bridge at Orlando

by Michele Moon

As Certified Senior Housing Professionals who specialize in helping seniors sell a family home and "downsize" to a more manageable living environment, we regularly tour and inspect senior communities in Central Florida. It's all part of our job to ensure that we - The Estate Conversions Team of Keller Williams Realty - can provide the best recommendations and senior housing options for a late-in-life transition.  


The Bridge at Orlando is an assisted living and independent living community that features five apartment floor plans to choose from. Situated amid a park-like campus complete with gazebo and picnic areas, their retirement services include:

Monthly lease with no buy-in
Variety of apartments
Restaurant-style fine dining
Scheduled transportation
Fitness center
Housekeeping services

The activity schedule features trips, socials, hobby groups, educational seminars and live entertainment, while the restaurant-quality dining may be enjoyed in the community dining room or, if you wish a larger gathering for guests, in the private dining room.


Of course, everyone loves saying goodbye to vacuuming, cleaning, dusting, preparing meals, and washing linenes. These household and apartment maintenance chores are taken care of by the staff at the Bridge at Orlando.

Health and Wellness plans are customized for each resident, and fitness classes ranging from yoga to walking groups are provided for individuals and focused on each residents' experience and fitness level, in addition to their level of independence.


In addition to the exercise room, other popular areas on the grounds include:

Cozy lounge with fireplace
Comfortable lounge areas
Hair salon
Craft room
Ice cream parlor
Billiards room
Library
Laundry facility

If you are a senior or the family caregiver of an older adult and need advice or information on selling a long-held family home and potentially moving to an Orlando-area retirement community, please feel free to contact us. We - Lisa D'Aloise and Michele Moon - are specifically trained and experienced in helping seniors and their families navigate the complexities of a late-in-live move.


There is plenty to love in this fabulous 4 bed, 3 bath, office, plus BONUS room home! This is an Engle Monterey floor plan with an added large, downstairs bonus room, extended master bedroom and screened porch with extended patio. The chef's kitchen features a built in double oven, center island, desk space, travertine flooring and overlooks the family room. The home also features bamboo wood flooring, large formal areas, plantation shutters and a side entry, three car garage.

Thursday, May 1, 2014

Orlando Mother's Day 2014 Gift Ideas, Events, Activities, Restaurants and Brunches

by Michele Moon

Whether your mother is living on her own independently in Central Florida or the resident of a retirement community in Orlando or assisted living facility, Mother's Day in Orlando is, of course, a special day for her and you.

I've compiled a list of Mother's Day gift ideas for senior citizens along with links to Mother's Day brunches & other activities in Orlando, Winter Park, Altamonte Springs, and all across our area. Enjoy and Happy Mother's Day 2014 to you.


Mother's Day Gift ideas for Seniors

Memory Jar

Grab a jar, decorate it nicely, find some small pieces of paper or cards, and pause to think. On each card, write a quick sentence detailing a fond memory of time you spent with her. It could be something from childhood or anything at all. She'll love picking one out once in awhile and smiling at a cherished memory.



Photo Bouquet

Sure, mom will love some beautiful, fresh, real flowers. But make her a photo bouquet also. Even if you're not especially "crafty," this is pretty easy to do. Cut a few shapes out of construction paper and make copies of some of your favorite, family photographs, be they "vintage" or ones you snap today with your smartphone or digital camera. Glue one photograph to each piece of construction paper, and drop by a florist and ask to buy some of the plastic sticks they use to attach cards to their floral arrangements. They should be happy to sell you a few, especially if you also purchase an Orlando Mother's Day floral arrangement from them!

Freezer Meals


If Mom is a bit older and living independently in Lake Mary, Longwood, Oviedo, or anywhere in central Florida, she'll probably appreciate you saving her from cooking. Spend some time on Mom and prepare her several casseroles, bags of vegetable treats, or other meal ideas that can be easily stored in a freezer and reheated.  



Mother's Day 2014 Brunches in Orlando

Of course, Mom will love spending time with you at the time-honored tradition of a Mother's Day brunch. From Downtown Orlando to Maitland, Sand Lake, Apopka, Sanford, and more, here are some places to take your Mom or elderly parents for Mother's Day in Orange County. 


This Sounds Fun!



Take Mom to the Mother’s Day Brunch on Sunday, May 11th for a special screening of the classic film FUNNY GIRL, starring Barbra Streisand! All guests will enjoy one complimentary Mimosa, live music by The Cook Trio, and a delectable brunch buffet. Individual Film & Brunch Tickets: $35 Kids 12 and under: $20.


Mother's Day Art Show & Sale in Winter Garden


Our friends at Serenades West Orange memory care assisted living in Winter Garden invite families of Serenades residents & the public to join them for the Mother's Day Art Show and Sale from 2:00 pm-4:00 pm. Family pictures will also be taken. Please RSVP to the concierge at 407-416-8680.



Happy Orlando Mother's Day from the Estate Conversions Team!




3 beds, 3 baths, $158,900






Wednesday, April 23, 2014

Orange County, Florida Prescription Drug Take Back Day 2014: Free Medication Disposal in Orlando

The next Prescription Drug Take Back Day in Orlando is scheduled for Saturday, April 26th  from 10-2p. There are 18 locations available in Orange County for residents to drop off their expired and/or unwanted medications with no questions asked.


Questions can be directed to the Orange County Drug Free Coalition at 407-836-7335.












Friday, April 18, 2014

Orlando Adults and Long Term Care Insurance Information

by Michele Moon

Central Florida baby boomers – those between the ages of 49 and 67 – and even older, senior adults, face the question of whether or not to purchase a long term care insurance policy.

Less than 20% of older adults have such a policy, a number that means many older people in Florida could spend long years living in less-than-ideal situations.


A very real possibility is that those without long term care insurance could be forced to spend down all of their assets before qualifying for Medicare. According to the National Clearinghouse for Long-Term Care Information, about 70% of people over age 65 require some type of long-term care in their lifetime.

That means your house, savings, and all assets liquidated in order to pay for any assisted housing needs that may arise.

Here are some basic facts that explain long term care insurance. I thought the infographics do a fine job of explaining more numbers:


And here's another


If you're an Orlando-area adult 55+ or the family caregiver of an older senior adult, Lisa and I - The Estate Conversions Team - are specifically trained as Certified Senior Housing Professionals. That means we do far more than simply help people buy or sell a house in Orlando. Feel free to contact us anytime for information and advice on preparing for your future as it pertains to real estate, senior housing, and any other issues that involve a late-in-life move for those 55+. 

If we don't know the answer or can't help specifically, we'll refer you to other resources, organizations, or professionals who can be of service. Find us here or fill out the form to the right of this page.

Our Featured Orlando Condo for Sale





Monday, March 24, 2014

Baby Boomer and Senior Citizen Discounts (55+) in Orlando, Florida

by Michele Moon

From haircuts, to restaurants, to retail stores, to travel and groceries, baby boomers and seniors in the Orlando area and across central Florida can take advantage of a wide variety of discounts available to those 55+.

Of course, eligible ages vary from store to store, and while some request that you be 60+ or more, many are happy to share some love with the 55+ set.


But remember, you always have to ask for the discount, so don't be shy! In fact, it may be a good policy for Orlando seniors, boomers, or caregiver families to ask about discounts anywhere and everywhere you spend money.

Below is a list of NATIONAL businesses that share discounts for seniors. These may have changed over time or - in some instances - no longer be valid, but I hope it'll serve as a starting place to help you save some dollars here and there.



While these are national chains and businesses, I'd love to compile a list of independent, local, mom and pop businesses in the Orlando area that provide similar savings.

If your business does, or if you are aware of such a business with senior discounts in Central Florida, please email me the information here. And thank you!


RESTAURANTS:

Applebee’s: 15% off with Golden Apple Card (60+)
Arby’s: 10% off (55+)
Ben & Jerry’s: 10% off (60+)
Bennigan’s: discount varies by location (60+)
Bob’s Big Boy: discount varies by location (60+)
Boston Market: 10% off (65+)
Burger King: 10% off (60+)
Chick-Fil-A: 10% off or free small drink or coffee (55+)
Chili’s: 10% off (55+)
CiCi’s Pizza: 10% off (60+)
Denny’s: 10% off, 20% off for AARP members (55+)
Dunkin’ Donuts: 10% off or free coffee (55+)
Einstein’s Bagels: 10% off baker’s dozen of bagels (60+)
Fuddrucker’s: 10% off any senior platter (55+)
Gatti’s Pizza: 10% off (60+)
Golden Corral: 10% off (60+)
Hardee’s: $0.33 beverages everyday (65+)
IHOP: 10% off (55+)
Jack in the Box: up to 20% off (55+)
KFC: free small drink with any meal (55+)
Krispy Kreme: 10% off (50+)
Long John Silver’s: various discounts at locations (55+)
McDonald’s: discounts on coffee everyday (55+)
Mrs. Fields: 10% off at participating locations (60+)
Shoney’s: 10% off Sonic: 10% off or free beverage (60+)
Steak ‘n Shake: 10% off every Monday & Tuesday (50+)
Subway: 10% off (60+)
Sweet Tomatoes: 10% off (62+)
Taco Bell: 5% off; free beverages for seniors (65+)
TCBY: 10% off (55+)
Tea Room Cafe: 10% off (50+)
Village Inn: 10% off (60+)
Waffle House: 10% off every Monday (60+)
Wendy’s: 10% off (55+)
White Castle: 10% off (62+)


RETAIL & APPAREL:

Banana Republic: 10% off (50+)
Bealls: 20% off first Tuesday of each month (50+)
Belk’s: 15% off first Tuesday of every month (55+)
Big Lots: 10% off
Bon-Ton Department Stores: 15% off on senior discount days (55+)
C.J. Banks: 10% off every Wednesday (60+)
Clarks: 10% off (62+)
Dress Barn: 10% off (55+)
Goodwill: 10% off one day a week (date varies by location)
Hallmark: 10% off one day a week (date varies by location)
Kmart: 20% off (50+)
Kohl’s: 15% off (60+)
Modell’s Sporting Goods: 10% off
Rite Aid: 10% off on Tuesdays & 10% off prescriptions
Ross Stores: 10% off every Tuesday (55+)
The Salvation Army Thrift Stores: up to 50% off (55+)
Stein Mart: 20% off red dot/clearance items first Monday of every month (55+)

By Maurice07 (Own work) [CC-BY-SA-3.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0)], via Wikimedia Commons


GROCERY:

Albertson’s: 10% off first Wednesday of each month (55+)
American Discount Stores: 10% off every Monday (50+)
Compare Foods Supermarket: 10% off every Wednesday (60+)
DeCicco Family Markets: 5% off every Wednesday (60+)
Food Lion: 6% off every Monday (60+)
Fry’s Supermarket: free Fry’s VIP Club Membership & 10% off every Monday (55+)
Great Valu Food Store: 5% off every Tuesday (60+)
Gristedes Supermarket: 10% off every Tuesday (60+)
Harris Teeter: 5% off every Tuesday (60+)
Hy-Vee: 5% off one day a week (date varies by location)
Kroger: 10% off (date varies by location)
Morton Williams Supermarket: 5% off every Tuesday (60+)
The Plant Shed: 10% off every Tuesday (50+)
Publix: 5% off every Wednesday (55+)
Rogers Marketplace: 5% off every Thursday (60+)
Uncle Guiseppe’s Marketplace: 5% off (62+)

TRAVEL:

Alaska Airlines: 10% off (65+)
American Airlines: various discounts for 65 and up (call before booking for discount)
Continental Airlines: no initiation fee for Continental Presidents Club & special fares for select destinations
Southwest Airlines: various discounts for ages 65 and up (call before booking for discount)
United Airlines: various discounts for ages 65 and up (call before booking for discount)
U.S. Airways: various discounts for ages 65 and up (call before booking for discount)
Amtrak: 15% off (62+)
Greyhound: 5% off (62+)
Trailways Transportation System: various discounts for ages 50+
Car Rental:Alamo Car Rental: up to 25% off for AARP members
Avis: up to 25% off for AARP members Best Western: 10% off (55+)
Budget Rental Cars: 10% off; up to 20% off for AARP members (50+)
Dollar Rent-A-Car: 10% off (50+)
Enterprise Rent-A-Car: 5% off for AARP members
Hertz: up to 25% off for AARP members
National Rent-A-Car: up to 30% off for AARP members
Cambria Suites: 20%-30% off (60+)
Clarion Motels: 20%-30% off (60+)
Comfort Inn: 20%-30% off (60+)
Comfort Suites: 20%-30% off (60+)
Econo Lodge: 20%-30% off (60+)
Hampton Inns & Suites: 10% off when booked 72 hours in advance
Holiday Inn: 10%-30% off depending on location (62+)
Hyatt Hotels: 25%-50% off (62+)
InterContinental Hotels Group: various discounts at all hotels (65+)
Mainstay Suites: 10% off with Mature Traveler’s Discount (50+); 20%-30% off (60+)
Marriott Hotels: 15% off (62+)
Motel 6: 10% off (60+)
Myrtle Beach Resort: 10% off (55+)
Quality Inn: 20%-30% off (60+)
Rodeway Inn: 20%-30% off (60+)
Sleep Inn: 20%-30% off (60+)



ACTIVITIES & ENTERTAINMENT:

AMC Theaters: up to 30% off (55+)
Bally Total Fitness: up to $100 off memberships (62+)
Busch Gardens Tampa, FL: $3 off one-day tickets (50+)
Carmike Cinemas: 35% off (65+)
Cinemark/Century Theaters: up to 35% off
U.S. National Parks: $10 lifetime pass; 50% off additional services including camping (62+)
Regal Cinemas: 30% off Ripley’s Believe it or Not: @ off one-day ticket (55+)
SeaWorld Orlando, FL: $3 off one-day tickets (50+)

CELL PHONE DISCOUNTS:

AT&T: Special Senior Nation 200 Plan $29.99/month (65+)
Jitterbug: $10/month cell phone service (50+)
Verizon Wireless: Verizon Nationwide 65 Plus Plan $29.99/month (65+)

MISCELLANEOUS:

Great Clips: $3 off hair cuts (60+)
Super Cuts: $2 off haircuts (60+)




Hurry in to see this immaculate home in desirable Twin Rivers. This home has been lovingly maintained by the original owner. Downstairs you'll find a large family room that opens onto the screened pool and a nice kitchen with silestone counter tops, walk-in pantry and eating area. The formal dining room and living room are also nice sized and the master is located downstairs as well. The upstairs features a loft area that is perfect for a desk, three good size bedrooms and a full bath. Recent updates include the exterior painted in 2012, pool screen in 2013, both A/C units in 2009 and some interior painted in 2014. The property is beautiful and is just over a quarter acre. 

Friday, March 14, 2014

Are You Part of Orlando's "Sandwich Generation"? Help for Baby Boomers with Older Parents

by Michele Moon

Are you a part of the "Sandwich Generation" in Central Florida?

You are if you are between the ages of 40 and 60 and responsible for the care of not only your aging parents, but also your own, dependent children. This generation, “sandwiched” between two other generations, experiences both the joys and the stress of being responsible – financially, emotionally, and energetically – to the needs of two distinct members of their family.


Baby boomers are typically a large segment of this generation, but even those in their 40's in the Orlando area are increasingly finding themselves pressed for money and time as they care for elderly parents. This is especially true if your parent has medical issues and is nearly completely dependent on you.

In some cases, members of the "Sandwich Generation" are in the process of - or will soon have to - begin the large amount of work necessary to settle some of Mom or Dad's estate, learn how to find an assisted living facility, sell their parent's house, and attend to a rather large number of variables and red tape that make up the work of a late-in-life transition.


If you're a member of the Sandwich Generation in Orlando and are feeling sandwiched and squeezed, the most important thing to remember is that help is available. A wide variety of professionals exist to be of service where a baby boomer or family caregiver in their 40's may require help in senior-related issues.

And not all of it costs money. For example, as Certified Senior Housing Professionals, part of our job at Estate Conversions in Oviedo is to help boomers and seniors understand their options in senior housing, while also directing the family caregivers to other senior-centric professionals in metropolitan Orlando – businesses we have personally vetted and can recommend for their excellence.

As Orlando realtors, Lisa D'Aloise and I - Michele Moon - are able to help with the sale of a family home anywhere from Winter Park to Sanford.  

But we do more than sell a house. We'll also sit down with you and help educate you on what we've learned over the course of many years of helping seniors and their families navigate the emotional and financial complexities of moving an older adult to a new home. We're also specifically trained to coordinate the efforts of these various professionals as part of our job of taking some of the strain away from you, our client.  

Need Advice, Information, or Just Someone to Vent to?




Five bedrooms, Five Baths. Come see this custom-built home with all the "I Wants" in this exclusive Arrowhead neighborhood in Tuscawilla. The main living areas offer lovely views of the golf course from its vantage point on the 9th tee of the Tuscawilla golf course. 


Thursday, March 6, 2014

Interview: What is a Professional Guardian?

by Michele Moon

As Certified Senior Housing Professionals in Orlando, the Estate Conversions Team - Lisa D'Aloise and I - have been trained and educated to provide a new level of expertise, service, and compassion to our senior and boomer clients.

That includes building a resource team of other professionals who provide specific services to seniors and family caregivers - businesses and people that we have vetted and feel confident in referring our clients to. As Certified Senior Housing Professionals, it's our job to help you with real estate transactions, including the sale or purchase of a home, and also know the right people to refer you to when a need outside of our scope of business appears.


One of those needs that may develop when one embarks on a late-in-life move is that of a Professional Guardian. Here's an overview of what a professional guardian in Orlando, Orange County, and all across Central Florida does.

H. Leonard (Lennie) Burke, Professional Guardian.



Michelle: Lennie, I have worked with several Professional Guardians, so I have some idea of what you do, but I’m not sure I understand the whole story. Why is guardianship necessary in the first place?

Lennie: Sometimes an individual won’t be able to make decisions for him or herself. This could be as a result of Alzheimer’s or other dementia, a stroke, injury or some other mental deficiency. In that tragic circumstance, someone else will have to make important decisions for them. So, the Circuit Court can be asked to appoint a guardian to take over that responsibility so that their health is protected and their property is not wasted or stolen.

Michelle: Shouldn’t this be the role of a family member?

Lennie: Generally, yes. The law specifies a preference for a family member to act in this critical role. Sometimes there is no family member available, willing or qualified. In that case the Court might have to seek the assistance of a Professional Guardian.

Michelle: So, you’re only appointed when there is no family member to be appointed?

Lennie: There are other situations. One is a dispute within a family. In that case, a judge may appoint a Professional Guardian because they are neutral. I’ve been appointed in this situation several times.


Michelle: So, let’s say you are appointed. What kinds of decisions are you empowered to make?

Lennie: The powers can be divided into two categories – guardian of the person and guardian of the property. Guardian of the person might include medical decision making, determining social environment and residential placement. Guardian of the property might include managing funds, receiving benefits, protecting personal and real property and paying bills.

Michelle: You said “might”. Can you explain that word choice?

Lennie: When the judge determines that an individual is incapacitated, the judge will remove certain rights from that person based on that individual’s capacity. The judge will also determine specifically which rights and duties will be assigned to the guardian.

Michelle: Are Professional Guardians licensed?

Lennie: No, not exactly. We are technically not “licensed”. We are required to be registered with the Department of Elder Affairs. In order to be registered, we have to complete a training course, pass a competency exam, obtain a bond, and pass both criminal background and credit checks. We also have to obtain regular continuing education and renew our registration every year. So, it’s very similar to licensing.

Reach H. Leonard (Lennie) Burke, Professional Guardian at 321-251-8133

Michelle: Is there any review of the actions of a Professional Guardian and are there any professional standards?

Lennie: The guardian serves at the discretion of the Court and all actions are subject to Court review. A guardian of the person must submit an annual plan to the Court. That plan documents care during the previous year and forecasts what care will be provided during the coming year. A guardian of the property must submit an annual accounting of all assets and transactions for audit by the Court.

The State of Florida does not impose an ethical standard or standards of practice on guardians. Some Professional Guardians enjoy national certification (by the Center for Guardianship Certification) which obligates them to follow an ethical standard subject to discipline. Both the National Guardianship Association and the Florida State Guardianship Association have published standards of practice which are advisory.

Michelle: Do you have any final comments?

Lennie: Guardianship is not something anybody wants. It should be regarded as a last resort. It can be expensive and intrusive. I liken it to a heart bypass operation. Nobody looks forward to having their heart cut open. Sometimes it is necessary for the patient. Guardianship is similar in that it may be the necessary step to protect someone from danger. Lastly, guardianship doesn’t have to be forever. We are required to review on an annual basis whether rights could be restored and the person under guardianship always has the power to petition for restoration of their rights.

Michelle: You mentioned a moment ago disputes within families and we have talked about that before. Can we talk in the future about your efforts to help families in conflict?

Lennie: Absolutely. I look forward to that.

Indeed, Lennie also provides mediation, a service that - in some cases - may allow guardianship to be avoided.






Thursday, February 13, 2014

Video Review: Premier Senior Consultants: Helping Orlando Seniors Find the Right Retirement Communities

by Michele Moon

As Orlando real estate agents who specialize in helping seniors downsize, sell a house, and prepare to move into more manageable housing, we at Estate Conversions regularly come across other people who are providing some unique and first-class services for Orlando seniors or their caregiver families.


I recently had the pleasure of spending time with Holly Jennings who - along with her business partner Carrie Vick - are the driving force behind Premier Senior Consultants, an Orlando company that provides a free service that many people probably don't even know is available to them.

If you're an older adult or the family caregiver of a senior citizen and need to learn more about the process of moving into a Central Florida independent living or assisted living community (often commonly referred to as retirement communities) Holly, Carrie, and Premier Senior Consultants can be of extraordinary assistance.

And, as mentioned above, their service is free to you: the senior or family member. Holly and Carrie both hold extensive experience as administrators and executives within the senior housing industry. Now, they've started their own business to utilize that knowledge and provide a concierge/consultant service to seniors or their families.

Watch My Video Interview with Holly



Visit the Premier Senior Consultants Website

Here's how Holly and Carrie explain their assistance:

The Premier Process begins with a personal interview to gather information with family member(s) and the future resident. This is to ensure each potential community meets the expectations and requirements we have identified.

Next, we will tour each Senior Living Community by your side, supporting the process from start to finish. Our goal is to ensure each future resident will be welcomed, cared for and safe in their new home.

Our service is at NO COST to you and the fee is paid by the community after the resident has successfully transitioned to their new home.

Many thanks to Holly, Carrie, and Premier Senior Consultants for being a part of the effort to make finding the right senior housing in Orlando an easier and more intuitive process for all involved!

Our Featured Orlando House for Sale


Come see...Come sigh! Hurry in to see this lovely home in highly desirable Waterford Lakes! Inside you'll find soaring ceilings, spacious formal living room and dining room and a large family room. The master bedroom is located on the first floor and has a jetted tub, large walk in closet and access to the pool/patio. Upstairs are 4 bedrooms, two with walk in closets and a loft. The pool has solar panels, pop up cleaners, a gas heated spa and an indoor control system. The exterior was just painted in November and the A/C was replaced in '04. Residents of Waterford Lakes enjoy a community pool, playground, tennis, walking paths and top rated schools. The location is ideal with close proximity to the 408 expressway, Waterford Lakes Towne Center, shopping and restaurants.