Governor Abercrombie: a New Day for Hawai'i's Seniors

MAGAZINE | DEC•JAN 2012

“ ...our ku¯puna are a tremendous Governor economic and Abercrombie: social asset.” a New Day for Hawai‘i’s Seniors

Tax Planning RSVP: RESOURCE Visit online & Preparation A Senior GUIDE: for past issue RESOURCE page 9 Volunteer Our Trusted GUIDE Program Supporters Listings page 16 page 28

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Matsumoto & Clapperton Advertising Date: 10/27/11 11-ACS-0994A Generations FP.indd 1 Client: 15 Craigside Job# 11-ACS-0994A 10/27/11 1:44 PM Head: ‘Life gets better at 15.’ Pub: Generations Run date: Dec/Jan Size: F/P; 8.125” x 10.875”, 4/color bleed Mtls: PDF-X/1a EDITOR’S NOTE :: STAFF / DISTRIBUTION POINTS ::

Distribution List: 15 Craigside n AARP Chapter 60 n Aloha Nurs- ing Rehab Centre n Airline Mechanics Union n Ameriprise Financial n Arcadia n Avalon Care Centers n Big City Diners n Catholic Charities s we enter 2012 with optimistic minds, trust in our neighbors and plans to spend more n Child & Family Services n Club 50 Fitness n Dauterman Medical & www.Generations808.com time with our family and friends, Generations Magazine will be here to bring you more Mobility n City and County of Honolulu’s Elderly Affairs Division n A resources for life. City Hall n Elks Club n Gold Coast Real Estate n Hawaii Association We promise to provide you with more resources that maybe you never heard of, never thought PERCY IHARA of Retired Americans n Hawaii Meals on Wheels n Hawaii Okinawan Publisher/Editor n n about and possibly may need, right now. We will be here to support you and your family, and we Center Hawaii State Executive Office on Aging Hawaii Kai Retire- 808-368-6747 ment n Hawaii State Legislature n Hino Hairstyles (Ala Moana Center) will work to partner with more agencies and companies to meet these goals. [email protected] n Honolulu Christian Church n Humana n Japanese Cultural Center We would like to thank Gov. Neil Abercrombie for allowing us into his world of political life and n n n SHERRY GOYA Kaiser Permanente Kahala Nui Kapahulu Community Center being so open with us. I truly believe he has a special place in his heart for the seniors of Hawai‘i Sales & Distribution n Kapiolani Hospital n Kuakini Health System n Lanakila Meals on and understands that our ku¯puna will always be an important foundation for our community. 808-722-8487 Wheels n Lanakila Senior Center n Leahi Hospital n Logo’s Bookstore n LONGS: Pali, Hawaii Kai n Love’s Bakery n Love’s Bakery Thrift In 2012, please visit our revamped and more user-friendly Web site, www.Generations808.com. [email protected] Stores n Makua Alii Senior Center n Maluhia Hospital n McKinley On our homepage you can find all of our past issues and check out our calendar of Island events WILSON ANGEL Carwash n Moiliili Community Center n One Kalakaua n Pacific Rim that pertain to aging. You will also want to click on our resource tab where you can view and print Art Director Bank n Palolo Chinese Home n Plaza at Mililani n Plaza at Punch- out all of our resource guides and view, or listen to, our resource library of topics. Many thanks [email protected] bowl n Pohai Nani n Project Dana n Prudential Advantage Real to our Webmaster, Peterson Rosario. Oh, by the way, if you don’t have a computer, go to any state AIMEE HARRIS Estate Kahala Mall n Olaloa Retirement Community n Roots & Relics library and you can use one for free. Editorial Consultant n SAFEWAY: Manoa, Enchanted Lake, Kaneohe n Salvation Army n Congratulations to our 2011 Senior Fair survey winner Sharon Saito, who works for the Scott Makuakane Law Office n Senior Move Managers n St. Francis BRIAN SUDA Hospice n The Convalescent Center of Honolulu n The Mobile State Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped. She won our Vacations Hawai‘i Las Vegas Photographer vacation package for two. She excitedly let us know that she took her sister for a vacation during Notary n TIMES: Kaimuki, Kaneohe, Aiea n Vacations Hawaii n 808-722-9479 Waikiki Community Center n Waikiki Real Estate n Windward Mall Thanksgiving. See photo below. [email protected] theatres & food court n YMCA n YWCA Lastly, in our upcoming February/March issue look for our reader survey. Give us your feedback PETERSON ROSARIO PUBLIC LIBRARIES: Aiea, Ewa Beach, Hawaii Kai, Hawaii State, and send the survey back to us for a chance to win a 5-night Las Vegas Vacation Package. Webmaster Kahuku, Kailua, Kaimuki, Kalihi-Palama, Kaneohe, Kapolei, Liliha, My sincerest thanks to all of you for your support of our mature community! [email protected] Manoa, McCully-Moiliili, Mililani, Pearl City, Salt Lake, Wahiawa, Waialua, Waianae, Waikiki-Kapahulu, Waimanalo, Waipahu

Generations Magazine’s content—editorial or advertising—should not be DISTRICT PARKS: Aiea, Halawa, Kailua, Kilauea, Makiki, Manoa, used as a substitute for advice from your doctors, financial advisors or life planners. Accounts, views and opinions expressed in this magazine do not Pupukea Beach, Salt Lake, Waiau, Waimanalo, Waipahu necessarily reflect the views of the Publisher, Editor, Board of Directors, or its staff and distributors, as well as being liable for damages arising out of Live Well in 2012! any content, products or events mentioned in the magazine. COMMUNITY PARKS: Aina Haina, Ala Puumalu, Ala Wai, Copyright 2011 Generations Magazine is produced monthly as a free Asing, Crestview, Ewa Beach, Kahala, Kaimuki, Kaneohe, Kuapa resource for© Hawai‘i's mature community. All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, except for the inclusion of brief quotations in a review, without Isles, Makakilo, Mililani, Moanalua, Pearl City, Pililaau, Wahiawa, permission in writing from the publisher. Whitmore Printed by Trade Publishing Co., Hawai‘i, 808-848-0711, 800-234-5619 Percy Ihara, Editor/Publisher

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Address ______SUBSCRIPTION 6 issues for $12 ______(1 issue every other month) Phone ______Please send this form and a check payable to: Email ______GENERATIONS MAGAZINE 1414 Dillingham Blvd., Suite 201 Signature ______808-368-6747 | [email protected] Honolulu, Hawai‘i 96817 Generations Magazine 1414 Dillingham Blvd., Suite 201, Honolulu, HI 96817 n Past issue RESOURCE GUIDE Listings Get more information online, | p 5 www.Generations808.com n Calender Events and Notice Information CONTRIBUTORS ::

enerations Magazine calls upon Hawai‘i’s experts — from financial advisors to Gprofessional chefs — to produce an informative and meaningful publication for our local seniors and their families. Mahalo for their contributions.

In order of appearance: Tamilyn Masuda, CPA, was born and raised in Honolulu, Hawai‘i. She is a graduate of Hawai‘i Baptist Academy and the University of Hawai‘i at Ma¯noa. She’s been a Certified Public Accountant since 1995 and has more than 12 years of Public Accounting experience and 7 years as an internal revenue agent. For more information, call 847-4422 or visit www.masudacpa.com.

MICHAEL W. YEE has a financial advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc. As a financial advisor, Yee’s customized advice is anchored in a solid understanding of client needs and expectations. For more information, please contact Michael W. Yee at (808) 952-1240.

JEFFREY SISEMOORE, JD is Director of Planned Giving and Major Gifts for the National Kidney Foundation of Hawai‘i (NKFH). Jeff brings a legal and financial background to NKFH and is devoted to helping people who wish to support the mission of NKFH by showing them how their charitable desires can be achieved while benefiting themselves and their families. Jeff is available for consultation at 589-5976. Be sure to register for a free eNewsletter and check out the wealth of information at www.kidneyhawaii.org. Photo: The cover to Governor Abercrombie’s manifesto RUSSELL HIGA is the Senior Pastor of Honolulu Christian Church. He is a 1971 Roosevelt graduate. In 1978, he graduated from the University of Hawai‘i graduate with a BA in Science in Human Development. Later, he COVER STORY | GOV. ABERCROMBIE: A NEW DAY FOR HAWAI‘I’S SENIORS attended Western Conservative Baptist Seminary – Master of Divinity. He One of the most important public challenges of our time is to ensure that our rapidly aging has been married to Judy for 31 years, and the couple has three grown sons. population of retirees and elders can live productive and dignified lives.

DR. RITABELLE FERNANDES, MD, MPH, FACP is Clinical Associate CONTENTS | Dec / J an 2012 Professor at the Geriatric Medicine Department of the John A. Burns School of Medicine, University of Hawai‘i. She is board certified in Geriatric ELDERHOOD PROJECT with Kirk Matthews HEALTH medicine, Hospice and Palliative Medicine, Internal Medicine and Home Care. She is a practicing physician at the Kokua Kalihi Valley and Kalihi- 08 :: The “Sandwich” Generation 24 :: Your Mind & Body: Diabetes Palama Health Center. FINANCIAL WISDOMS 25 :: When Good Drugs Go Bad 09 :: Tax: Tax Planning & Preparation LIFESTYLE SUSIE CORSE has been AlohaCare’s Public Relations Manager for more 10 :: Financial: Stay Uplifted than five years. AlohaCare is a Hawai‘i-based Medicaid and Medicare health 26 :: 80 Years of Valuable Service insurance company. It was founded in 1994 by Hawai‘i’s Community Health 11 :: Financial: Uplifting Choices 27 :: The Blessings of Having a Church Family Centers to provide medical coverage for Medicaid beneficiaries. As Hawai‘i’s 34 :: AARP: Long-Term Care Survey 33rd largest business in the state, AlohaCare helps its members — from keiki COVER STORY to ku¯puna — stay healthy. 12 :: GOVERNOR ABERCROMBIE: RESOURCE GUIDE A NEW DAY FOR HAWAI‘I’S SENIORS 28 :: Our Trusted Supporters SCOTT MAKUAKANE is a lawyer whose practice has emphasized estate planning and trust law since 1983. He hosts Est8Planning Essentials, a AT YOUR SERVICE US GOVT PROGRAMS & SERVICES weekly TV talk show that airs on KWHE (Oceanic channel 11) at 8:30 p.m. 16 :: RSVP Goes to the City 32 :: Medicare: What’s Special in 2012 on Sunday evenings. For more information about Scott and his law firm, 17 :: Action Line Serves & Recruit Seniors 33 :: Social Security: Autumn Lessons for Retirement Est8Planning Counsel LLLC, visit www.est8planning.com. 18 :: Care in the Air 19 :: Respite & Reprieve LEGAL WISDOMS 20 :: It’s a Good Move 35 :: Legal: New & Powerful Estate Planning Tool 22 :: Safe Harbor 36 :: Better Business Bureau: Charity Scams Phone: 808-591-0222 Email: [email protected] n Past issue RESOURCE GUIDE Listings p 6 | KHON2’s Action Line 23 :: TimeGet to Scoot!more information online, Program Office hours: Weekdays between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. www.Generations808.com n Calender Events and Notice Information TAX WISDOM :: Tax Planning & Preparation by Tamilyn E. Masuda, CPA, Inc.

ur tax system for the most part remains LIFE CHANGES Ofirmly based upon the calendar year. At year- Marriage, divorce, the birth of a child, death, end, it’s time to take a snapshot of your income, a change in job or loss of a job, and retirement deductions and credits. Based on that data, your are just some of the life events that trigger a tax liability for the year can be computed. If year- special urgency for year-end tax planning. After y mother just completed her annual visit to me knowing that she can call my sister or me end strategies are implemented before your tax December 31, 2011, it will be too late to alter here to the Islands. She doesn’t stay at our when she needs to. M liability is “set in stone” it can make a significant most of your bottom-line tax liability for 2011. house … she likes her own space. I won’t tell you Boomers like me are in a rather unusual situa- difference in what you owe for the tax year. Tax how old she is. That would just be plain rude. But tion. Happily, many of us still have parents who planning for year-end 2011 should use traditional TAX EXTENDERS she is in good health and going strong. She finally are part of our lives. We also have grown children year-end strategies as well as those that react to got a cell phone (thanks to my sister). That gives A number of tax extenders are scheduled to we are still concerned about. Due to this common situations unique to this year. expire after December 31, 2011. They include: me a great deal of comfort. situation, Boomers are also called the “Sandwich INCOME/DEDUCTION SHIFTING While mother was visiting, I tried to call her Generation.” Frankly, I can’t think of a better title. — the state and local sales tax deduction house phone a number of times. No answer. A sandwich is a good thing. It provides comfort, The traditional year-end strategy of income — the higher education tuition When I called the cell phone, she answered right it can be shared with others and there’s an shifting applies to 2011, but with an extra twist. — the teacher’s classroom expense deduction away. And, other times when I left a message on endless variety. Under traditional strategy, you time your income and deductions so that your taxable income is Seniors age 70 ½ and older should also consid- her voicemail, she’d call back within minutes I’m going to call my mother now. If she thought about even for 2011 and 2012 so your tax bracket er making a charitable contribution directly from after she heard the message alert. Mother doesn’t of me as a sandwich it would probably be “Ham on does not spike in either year. If you anticipate their IRAs up to $100,000 and paying no tax on have a computer. She doesn’t understand why Wry.” Get it? Ham on … oh, well … n anyone would sit all day in front of a keyboard. a higher tax bracket for 2012, you may want to the distribution. This tax break, especially advan- So the cell phone is the closest thing to modern ——————————————————————— accelerate income into 2011 and defer deductions tageous to those who do not itemize deductions, technology she owns. But, as I said, it’s a comfort The Elderhood Project airs Thurs. 5:30 a.m. & 5 p.m. into 2012. If you anticipate a leaner 2012, income is scheduled to end for distributions made in tax might be delayed through deferred compensation years beginning after December 31, 2011. arrangements, postponing year-end bonuses, For more information, call Tamilyn Masuda at maximizing deductible retirement contributions 847-4422 or visit www.masudacpa.com. n and delaying year-end billings. The twist for year-end 2011 is the uncertain future for the tax rates after 2012. Many political observers forecast that higher-income taxpayers will be asked to pay more, either through higher tax rates or more limited deductions. That may Residential Real Estate Appraisals for: suggest a strategy in which income is not defer- Estate Planning • Probate • Contesting Real Property Taxes David Choate is a leading provider of real estate valuations red but is recognized now at lower tax rates still in Hawaii with over 20 years of experience in the business. available in 2011 and 2012. Ph: 808-945-0779 • Fx: 808-945-0076 [email protected] ROTH CONVERSIONS If you converted an Individual Retirement Specializing in: Account (IRA) to a Roth IRA in 2010, you were • Arthroscopic and Joint Replacement Rehabilitation given an option — recognize all income in 2010 • Neck and Back Disorders • Frozen Shoulders • Sports Injuries or defer that income, half into 2011 and half into 2012. If you elected to defer that income into 2011 and 2012, do not forget to figure that income into your year-end planning. Neil Shimabukuro, PT 1744 Liliha Street Suite 301 (near Liliha Bakery) Orthopedic Clinical Specialist Honolulu, Hawaii 96817 • Ph: (808) 531-1122 American Board of Most Insurances Accepted • Free Parking Physical Therapy Specialties Ask your doctor for a referral!

n Past issue RESOURCE GUIDE Listings Get more information online, | p 9 www.Generations808.com n Calender Events and Notice Information FINANCIAL WISDOM :: FINANCIAL WISDOM ::

Stay Uplifted Amid Uplifting by Jeffrey Sisemoore, JD Director of Planned Giving and Major Gifts Economic Downturns by Michael Yee, CFP Choices National Kidney Foundation of Hawaii

nvestors are being forced to cope with what ❸ Stocks may offer more attractive value than or many people end-of-year tax planning is FUTURE IRA GIFT OPTIONS: Imany perceive as unprecedented circumstances bonds. Fa regular part of their lives. Given the com- Helping Your Family and a Charity You Support in the economic and political environment. At the plications that our tax system can engender, it Many individuals have been pulling money While you have the opportunity to give through same time that the U.S. economic recovery ap- is no wonder that taxes often impact personal out of the stock market and investing in bonds your IRA now, there are other options available pears to be slowing, Standard & Poor downgrades goals and desires, especially during the holiday (or bond funds). Yet with interest rates on U.S. for making future gifts from your individual the U.S. credit rating on debt issued by the U.S. season when families are focused on relationships Treasury securities near their historic lows there retirement account to charity: Treasury. Confidence that government policymak- and gift giving. appears to be an limited upside. Worse yet, bonds ers can do anything significant to help improve Bequest of IRA: One option is to designate paying extremely low interest rates can be risky However, it is possible to use tax-favored stra- the environment is low. a charity as the beneficiary of your IRA. This for investors. If interest rates begin to rise, bond- tegies to make your holiday charitable giving go permits you to continue to take withdrawals from These and other concerns are contributing to a holders could be in for a negative surprise. That’s further. For example, if you are over age 70½, your IRA during life and then leave the remaining sense of unease for many investors. How should because bond prices decline when interest rates the federal government permits you to rollover value of your IRA to support a worthy program these major shifts in global politics and financing rise. Stock values, meanwhile, remain well below up to $100,000 from your IRA to charity without that is important to you. affect your personal portfolio strategy? the peak they reached in the fall of 2007 before increasing your taxable income or paying any Testamentary IRA Gift Annuity: Another the dramatic, 50 percent downturn occurred. At additional tax. These tax-free rollover gifts could Here are three realities to give you an appropri- option is to make a future gift of your IRA to that time, the S&P 500 Index topped out at 1,565. be $1,000, $10,000 or any amount up to $100,000 ate perspective on the challenges that lie ahead: charity while providing life income to your heirs. Today the S&P 500 is 20 percent to 25 percent be- this year. The gift satisfies your required minimum Your family will receive fixed payments based on ❶ The downgrade may be justified, but might low that all-time peak. This indicates that upside distribution (RMD) for this year without adding your age at rates that can be as high as 9.5%. have been premature. potential remains over the long run, though the any taxable income to your bottom line, and since Standard & Poor’s shifted the nation’s credit rat- market will likely continue to suffer through ups most IRAs are funded with pretax dollars, such Testamentary IRA Unitrust: An IRA could ing from AAA to AA+. Part of their rationale ap- and downs along the way. n gifts are a smart way to give to charity. also be transferred to a special “Give It Twice” trust that usually provides income to children peared to center around concerns that a dysfunc- IRA ROLLOVER: Simple, Easy Gift tional political environment will prevent budget for a period of up to 20 years. After that time, the issues from being resolved in an effective manner. Consider this example. Grace was a registered trust may pass to charity, creating a wonderful However, history is filled with examples of how nurse and a frequent charity volunteer. During way for you to make a charitable gift. American politicians have forged deals to resolve her working years, Grace’s IRA had grown sub- This holiday season if you would like to discuss crises. It may not be fair to discount the potential stantially. Since Grace’s income meets her needs, charitable giving options available to you, please that policymakers will come to agreement not just she decided to make a gift of $2,000 from her contact Jeffrey Sisemoore, JD, Director of Planned on budget issues, but other legislation designed to IRA. Grace called her custodian and requested a Giving and Major Gifts at the National Kidney give the economy a boost. transfer of $2,000. It was easy for Grace to make Foundation of Hawai‘i at 589-5976 or visit her charitable gift and she liked the fact that she www.kidneyhi.org. n ❷ Good news is often hidden. could help without increasing her taxes. In periods like these when troubling news leads MAJOR IRA GIFT: Smart Giving the headlines, investors are often surprised when markets perform well. This is due to the fact that Perhaps you are considering your tax planning some market observers are looking beyond the goals and would like to make a major gift to headlines to see other trends that are favorable. charity. Like many individuals, your IRA may The same is true in today’s environment. Corpo- be the largest asset in your estate. Your CPA may rate profits remain strong and companies in the be looking for ways to save taxes. By making an U.S. and elsewhere generally have solid balance IRA charitable rollover gift of up to $100,000, sheets. Emerging markets are growing robustly you can reach your goal of helping charity in a and will likely help spur ongoing economic ac- significant way and reducing taxable income by tivity in other parts of the world, including the using an asset that may otherwise be taxed at U.S. prices for gasoline have moderated in recent high ordinary tax rates. weeks, boosting consumer purchasing power. Even in difficult times, seeds of future prosperity are planted.

Phone: 808-591-0222 Email: [email protected] n Past issue RESOURCE GUIDE Listings p 10 | KHON2’s Action Line Get more information online, | p 11 Program Office hours: Weekdays between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. www.Generations808.com n Calender Events and Notice Information COVER STORY ::

want to contribute. In that way, our ku¯puna are a tremendous economic and social asset. However, we often view aging through a deficit or sick-care lens. My administration is changing that view- point. We’re partnering with senior advocacy Governor groups to redefine social attitudes about aging. For example, this year our Executive Office on Abercrombie: Aging joined the United States Administration on Aging in proclaiming the month of May as “Older Americans Month” in Hawai‘i. The recognition a New Day celebrates the role older Americans play in steer- ing the course of our history and recognizes them for Hawai‘i’s for their valuable insights and wisdom. We hon- ored seniors by showcasing them as “treasured resources,” united by historical experiences and Seniors strengthened by diversity. We understand that older Americans are now living healthier, longer and richer lives. We look “We need to face our forward to the many accomplishments they will challenges together, offer our local communities in the future. and build a Hawai‘i GM: Besides creating awareness, what are you doing to help seniors stay integrated into the for all ages.” whole of society? NA: Seniors who want to work or volunteer, should be able to. It is part of government’s job Cover & Feature Story Photography by Brian Suda to make sure that they have a chance to do so. It’s part of our plan to create a “silver wave” of opportunities for active older adults. Through s Neil Abercrombie marched into the governorship of Hawai‘i, was right. I was taught that big kids shouldn’t incentives and partnerships we are encouraging pick on little ones, I believed it and believe it now. non-profits and businesses to create flexible paid he carried with him a manifesto — A New Day In Hawai‘i. and volunteer opportunities for seniors. We also When I was first elected to public office, my recognize model employers who bring in retirees One of the plan’s key points was to enhance the quality of mother reminded me of how she was treated to serve as mentors and trainers. A unfairly and to always fight for those who can’t life for older adults — even to ambitiously turn age into an asset. fight for themselves. In these times, the most Senior Corps is one great example of the Now that it’s been just about 365 “new” days (or one year), since vulnerable are often our seniors. “silver wave” at work. The program taps the skills, talents and experience of individuals age Prior to the 2010 elections, I knew we were Abercrombie assumed office, Generations Magazine sat down with 55 and better to meet a wide range of commu- facing the most trying time in the history of the nity needs through three programs: RSVP, Foster the governor to see whether, indeed, a new day is dawning for seniors State of Hawai‘i. I felt the responsible thing to do Grandparents and Senior Companions. in Hawai‘i. was to utilize my relationships in Congress and the White House and my decades of legislative RSVP connects volunteers with service opportu- GM: What is the fire in your belly that motivates also during a time when women faced open dis- experience to address important social issues, nities in their communities that match their skills you to want to help seniors and make it a signifi- crimination. I witnessed the injustice of working such as aging, in these difficult times as Governor. and availability. Volunteers conduct safety patrols cant part of your administration’s goals? women, such as my mother Vera, who received for local police departments, participate in envi- ronmental projects, provide intensive educational NA: I grew up during the Depression in Buffalo, lower pay and benefits simply because of their GM: Set the stage for us …what is the status of gender. Through this and other childhood inci- our retirees and elders in Hawai‘i? services to children and adults and respond to New York, a city with many ethnic and religious natural disasters, among other activities. Foster divides. I often got into fights to defend me and dents, my mother taught me the importance of NA: First off, I want to say nearly ninety-five fairness, equality and of standing up for what Grandparents serve one-on-one as tutors and others for having the “wrong” background. It was percent of people over 60 are active, engaged and mentors to young people with special needs. p 12 | | p 13 COVER STORY ::

Senior Companions help homebound seniors and Ku¯puna Care, which is a publicly-funded service adults. They care for our ku¯puna in a way the in-kind, volunteer, ideas, time — to contribute other adults maintain independence in their own that provides services such as meals, bathing, government can’t — emotionally and fiscally. to care for our ku¯puna and to create the society homes. I encourage seniors to inquire about these companion and assisted transportation to people Family caregivers allow people to grow older that we want to live in. volunteer opportunities at the Hawai‘i Aging and needing help with daily living. in their own homes and communities, without We need to face our challenges together, and Disability Resource Center (643-2372). For an More importantly, however, is that state and requiring a huge and expensive new government build a Hawai‘i for all ages. update on the RSVP Program, turn to page 16. county governments are currently transforming program. In fact, the estimated economic value Every place on Earth, whether it be a large Also, Kapi‘olani Community College’s Ku¯puna our service delivery system. We want families to that family caregivers provide is about $2 billion, metropolitan city in Asia or an isolated Island Education Center offers assistance in comprehen- have better access to and assistance with navigat- which is more than government can afford to community like Hawai‘i, has a culture that was sive life planning and upgrading skills, including ing our long-term supports and services. spend on care and why it’s so important to help created over time by the inhabitants of that place. lifelong and/or intergenerational learning oppor- For example, through the Aging and Disability family caregivers in areas such as respite, care That’s why all of us who live in these Islands tunities for older adults. Resource Centers in each county, we will provide coordination, and education and training. must never forget that we owe much to the gener- information and referrals in a very person- ations who came before and to the older people in GM: For seniors who are less active, or need more centered manner. We hope to empower families GM: Do you have a ‘A New Day In Hawai‘i’ our community. They helped to educate us, form assistance, how is your administration helping? and caregivers to make informed decisions about legacy that you would like to leave behind? our ideas about brotherhood and establish the NA: One of the most important public challenges their options. The goal is to streamline access NA: For the senior and aging component of spirit of Aloha that pervades our home. I extend of our time is to ensure that our rapidly aging to the public and privately funded services and A New Day In Hawai‘i, I hope to develop a to all of our seniors my most heartfelt apprecia- population of retirees and elders can live produc- support, such as counseling, case management Hawai‘i Center of Excellence on Aging. This tion for their past contributions and wish them all tive and dignified lives. and programs such as the before mentioned is something that can continue to grow in years the very best. Currently, the state helps the most frail and Ku¯puna Care and QUEST Expanded Access. to come after I leave office. vulnerable older adults through Medicaid’s I’d like to see our university system, commu- GM: What do you have planned for retirement QUEST Expanded Access Program (QExA). The GM: As you know, many adult children take care nity colleges, the private business sector and once your term is over? program covers health services for nearly 39,000 on their aging parents. Although most wouldn’t non-profits come together to obtain funding for NA: I’ll help wherever and whenever I can, but Hawai‘i resident who are aged, blind and disabled have it any other way, caring for our elderly major research and cutting-edge projects around I’m not looking for any other job. This run for (ABD). However, Hawai‘i’s Medicaid plans are parents and grandparents can be difficult. How the subject of aging. We already have outstanding Governor was the culmination of a lifetime of plagued with rising health care costs and a grow- does the state support those who embrace it as experts and programs at Kapi‘olani Community public service. This is the last public office I will ing senior population. Medicaid is on a path to their duty? College, the University of Hawai‘i at Ma¯noa and hold. In retirement I plan to walk my dog Kanoa exceed our ability to pay and is at risk of failing NA: I understand how difficult caregiving can be. community-based programs throughout the every day, read and spend more time with my those who need it the most. My mother-in-law was incapacitated for almost Islands. These can be coordinated to develop wife, Dr. Nancie Caraway. n In view of that, I will continue to lobby the seven years. I saw every variety of care facility training programs, career paths in gerontology, federal government for federal matching pro- and workforce caliber. Only the professional dedi- and new advancements that can benefit people visions to support the Medicaid program. My cation of health care personnel enabled my wife in Hawai‘i and can be exported around the world, administration is also planning to attack the sky- and me to get through the ordeal with her. particularly in China, Japan and Korea, which are rocketing costs of health care statewide, including Despite government’s best efforts over the rapidly aging. There is no reason why Hawai‘i a greater focus on prevention, quality and on years to provide all of our ku¯puna care, our cannot be a world leader in this field. programs that demonstrate their cost savings. efforts are falling way short of the mark. Too many older adults and their families are without GM: This was just year one of your governor- The silver lining in all of this is that states all ship … you have three more years to see your across the country are encountering similar fiscal the support and resources they need, forcing them to turn to more expensive and less desirable plan come to fruition. Do you have a parting challenges, and the Obama Administration and message for our readers? Congress are aware of this and looking for ways living situations. For seniors who are alone and to help. With my strong ties to the White House impoverished, the situation is even worse. NA: Well, last but not least, I do believe govern- and to Congress, I am working to move Hawai‘i Out of this crisis, we have found opportuni- ment has a responsibility to build a streamlined to the front of the line for these opportunities. ties. Hawai‘i is a very adaptable and resourceful system of supports and services for families. I place. As such, Hawai‘i is the nation’s leader in note, however, that the care of Hawai‘i’s ku¯puna GM: Will existing services for seniors, especially intergenerational households. Grandparents are is a shared responsibility. No one entity can do through Ku¯puna Care funding, be increased to routinely involved in raising grandchildren. And this alone. From philanthropic organizations to support the growing number of seniors? adult children oftentimes care for their aging the for-profit sector, from government to non- parents. These family caregivers are the backbone profits, from individuals and families to clubs and NA: For seniors who are not eligible for Medic- associations, we all have resources — monetary, aid, our administration will continue to provide of our system of support and services for older p 14 | | p 15

Photo courtesy of the State Capitol AT YOUR SERVICE :: AT YOUR SERVICE :: RSVP Goes to the City Action Line Serves & Recruits Seniors The Retired and Senior 012 marks the 25th year of KHON2’s Action Line program. Over the years, the program has fielded 2thousands of calls, and we all owe many thanks to this valuable community service. Volunteer Program Action Line is a consumer referral service that assists people in solving a wide variety of problems they have encountered with businesses, service providers and government agencies. It also uses Changes Lives KHON’s resources to inform the community-at-large of relevant consumer issues. Staffing is entirely by a dedicated team of volunteers. Volunteers are predominately seniors with by Lei Shimizu, MSW, LSW a wide diversity of backgrounds and life experiences. Volunteers typically work one day a week Coordinator of Information and Assistance Services from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Ashley Muraoka, MURP, RSVP Project Director What they don’t do — they don’t intervene directly on the behalf of consumers. They also do not handle anonymous or third-party complaints. he Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) How to contact Action Line: Phone lines (591-0222) are open has a new family. We are now under the T weekdays between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Alternatively, consumers can Information and Assistance (I&A) Section of the email [email protected]. Elderly Affairs Division (EAD), Department of Community Services (DCS). We also proudly The Action Line Web site tab is located at KHON2.com, which welcome and congratulate Ashley Muraoka as the provides consumers with links that can be used to investigate newly hired director for this great new program. businesses, file complaints and to gather information on a wide We previously knew her as the coordinator for RSVP is currently recruiting volunteers to help range of topics. Consumer Alerts and links to recent news stories the Medicare for Participants and Providers Act. meet the most critical needs in our communities. can also be found on the site. With the support of the Elderly Affairs Division With Hawai‘i having one of the fastest growing During 2011, Action Line received two huge awards—the Better and under Muraoka’s direction, RSVP will focus elder populations in the nation, we have many Business Bureau’s Ka Mea o Kako‘o Award and the Hawai‘i State seniors who need help and many seniors who on enhancing the lives of older adults. RSVP Bar Association’s Young Lawyers’ Division Liberty Bell Award. Keeping Seniors Safe! recruits and matches adults, age 55 and better, can help. RSVP keeps seniors healthy in their Volunteer Solicitation: Action Line is always looking for new  Medical Alert Monitoring with community volunteer opportunities that own homes with services, such as telephone phone and office volunteers. Training is provided. For more infor-  Medication Dispensing Monitoring capitalize on their wisdom, skills and experi- reassurance, grocery shopping, light housekeep- ing, meal preparations, respite, transportation, mation, please visit the Action Line tab at KHON2.com or email at ence. There are more than 450 active volunteers [email protected]. n on O‘ahu serving in more than 50 non-profit health promotion, and information and assistance Phone: (808) 721-1201 organizations and public agencies. In 2010, they outreach. RSVP hopes to make a huge impact in www.kupunamonitoring.com contributed more than 85,000 hours of service to increasing the health, well-being and quality of Volunteers at work (L–R): the community, which amounts to $1.5 million life of O‘ahu’s seniors. Anni Suzuki, Jeanne McNeil, in service. These volunteers vary greatly in age, RSVP is also in the process of creating a Senior and Melba Kop background, status, ability, interests, ethnicity, University. At the university, volunteers will be and professional and educational level. able to conduct a class or take a class. This will give our volunteers the opportunity to share their knowledge, skills and talents with all generations. We will capture historical and institutional knowledge to enhance our community planning, growth and services. The ultimate goal of RSVP is to build capacity in communities across O‘ahu. Elite Membership Eligibility: ● You must be 55 years or better ● Interested in learning new skills ● Eager to make a difference in a person’s life For information, call 768-7700 or 643-2732. n

Phone: 808-591-0222 Email: [email protected] n Past issue RESOURCE GUIDE Listings p 16 | KHON2’s Action Line Get more information online, | p 17 Program Office hours: Weekdays between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. www.Generations808.com n Calender Events and Notice Information AT YOUR SERVICE :: AT YOUR SERVICE :: Respite & Reprieve by Theresa Basta, Manager of Franciscan Adult Day Center, Ma¯noa

inding just the right place to provide care older adults need social interaction to prevent Fand attention for older adult family members loneliness or depression. The quality of life can Care in the Air can be challenging for caregivers who work full be maximized through activities, socialization and by Kawika Villa, Marketing Coordinator of Hawai‘i Life Flight time during the day. It’s a serious dilemma: professional supervision. physically, the older adults may be fine, but We also take occasional field trips and invite may have dementia or be experiencing memory guest speakers to the Franciscan Adult Day loss, and therefore cannot be safely left at home Center. Intergenerational learning is one of the awai‘i Life Flight is an air ambulance provid- the older Cessna fleet with newer, faster aircraft, alone during the day. unique features of our program as students from er serving the Hawaiian Islands, transporting opting for Raytheon King Air C90B models. More H The Franciscan Adult Day Center in Ma¯noa, nearby schools come to share in activities that patients from pediatrics to geriatrics. It’s scope of than $2 million of custom reconfiguration work a program of St. Francis Healthcare System, benefit everyone. care ranges from cardiac and trauma to neurologi- was done to prepare the fleet for the demands of provides caregivers peace of mind, knowing their cal and burn patients. Hawai‘i’s medical community. The company also It’s amazing to see how much both the students family is in good hands while they’re at work. and program participants enjoy themselves. We This emergency air medical transportation is raised the bar when selecting pilots, aircraft main- Family caregivers must be available 24/7 and plan to replicate this model of intergenerational especially important for Neighbor Island resi- tenance and medical personnel to above current that can cause a drain on physical, emotional caring at the St. Francis Intergenerational Center dents who don’t live near major medical centers, FAA and industry standards. In addition, new or spiritual health. To prevent caregiver burnout, in ‘Ewa, a new center that will combine adult day Kawika Villa says. “If you or a family member positions were created to monitor and ensure the center also welcomes participants so that care- care and pre-school all in one convenient loca- suffer an accident or serious medical problem and quality management and safety, compliance, givers can enjoy some respite. A welcome break tion to serve those in the burgeoning West O‘ahu needed to be transferred to a medical facility on efficient communications and risk assessment. or being able to take care of other responsibilities region. Construction will begin next year on a another island,” he says, “Hawai‘i Life Flight will Hawai‘i Life Flight’s vision was to decrease during the day can make a world of difference parcel across from Franciscan Vista ‘Ewa, the transport you in a modern, medically equipped the wait times and ensure safe, efficient and for caregivers. St. Francis Healthcare System’s fully-occupied and professionally staffed aircraft.” reliable response. Hawai‘i Life Flight has opened affordable senior independent living center. six bases throughout the state at Li¯hu‘e, Kahului, I know what it’s like to care for a family mem- THE CREW Honolulu, Kamuela, Hilo and Kona. Each of these ber. For years, I was the sole caregiver for my hus- For more information and/or for a tour of The Hawai‘i Life Flight medical crewmembers bases has a flight crew response time of approxi- band, who had Alzheimer’s. I can relate to both Franciscan Adult Day Center, call 988-5678 or average 10 years of critical care or emergency mately 20 minutes or less to the patient’s bedside the caregivers as well as the participants in our visit www.franciscanadultday.com. n medicine experience. The flight nurses and para- or base airport. Crews actually live in the commu- program, formally known as the Sister Maureen medics use the latest technology and advanced nities they serve and participate at various Intergenerational Learning Environment (SMILE). education to transport patients who may require community events. Whether it’s taking the time advanced procedures and monitoring. to understand the challenges MEMBERSHIP PROGRAM and needs of the caregivers or NEW NAME, GOALS & SERVICE Hawai‘i Life Flight also has a membership spending time listening to the Hawai‘i Life Flight might be the new name program that makes out-of-pocket expenses concerns of the participants, it’s in Hawai‘i’s air ambulance industry, but the affordable to patients. Most major insurance a privilege to give my undivided company has actually been serving the state carriers are accepted. Hawai‘i Life Flight member- attention to each of them. I have since 1979. Owner Joseph Hunt purchased ship program waives the member’s insurance a great team of aides who help Hawai‘i Air Ambulance in 2006 to improve the deductible and co-payment when Hawai‘i Life with a range of activities for the quality of air ambulance services in the Islands. Flight provides emergency air medical transporta- participants throughout the day. The company changed its name in 2010, and is tion between the Hawaiian Islands. Whether it’s serving nourish- now known as Hawai‘i Life Flight. Hunt vowed Membership prices start at just $49 per year ing meals, leading an exercise to make vast improvements to increase the safety, for seniors, ages 55 and up. Family plans are also group or planning a recreational reliability and responsiveness of the company available, and cover the applicant, spouse and activity, we’re always doing to give the people of Hawai‘i an air medical dependents to age 18 or 23 if fulltime students. something to keep our partici- transportation company worthy of their trust pants active and engaged, while For more information, contact Kawika Villa at and support. maintaining a structured envi- (808) 833-2270, [email protected] or ronment. Studies show—and our In 2006, Hunt got to work right away hiring visit www.hawaiilifeflight.com. n an entirely new management team. He replaced experience confirms—that

Phone: 808-591-0222 Email: [email protected] n Past issue RESOURCE GUIDE Listings p 18 | KHON2’s Action Line Get more information online, | p 19 Program Office hours: Weekdays between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. www.Generations808.com n Calender Events and Notice Information AT YOUR SERVICE ::

For over 30 years, the staff of Hale Ho Aloha has provided personalized skilled nursing and intermediate care It’s A Good Move in the comfortable surroundings of our Paciﬁ c Heights home. by Cynthia Arnold After a top-to-bottom renovation, our newly modernized facility promises to s Baby Boomers begin to retire, continue that tradition in a renewed atmosphere of ‘ohana. Amany are choosing to downsize to a simpler life. After their children leave We invite you to contact us to arrange the nest, many seek a more comfortable a tour, and discover how it feels to living environment as they enter senior- “Come Home to Aloha.” hood. Some opt to spend their retirement years living in a smaller home, 2670 Paciﬁ c Heights Road retirement community, or with their 524-1955 ext. 112 From decluttering to creating a fresh, new look again. [email protected] adult children. This transition is often www.halehoaloha.com overwhelming and very stressful. With years of memories and accumulated “stuff” in their home, people simply don’t know where to begin. The good news is that there is help available. Augie Salbosa Photography Senior Move Managers LLC, also dba Declutter Hawai‘i, was formed by Dan and Julie Ihara in October 2010. After years of servicing senior clients in their real estate business, they have created efficient, friendly tools that help seniors downsize their personal belongings. They’ve HUGO HIGA, M.D. Do You Have Cataracts? learned ways that help people de-clutter their EYE CARE homes and make decisions about their belong- COSMETIC SURGERY ings. In January of 2011, they joined the National MEDI SPA Association of Senior Move Managers (NASMM) HEARING • Difficulty seeing clearly as the first and only Senior Move Management Seeing, Hearing & Feeling Younger! • Blurred or cloudy vision firm in Hawai‘i. Dan’s niece, Cynthia Goya Senior Move Managers is bonded, insured and • Night time blur or glare Arnold, is the Vice President of Operations and nationally certified with the NASMM. As such, Dr. Higa takes a Ô wholeÐ youÕ approach that addresses your Vision, Aesthetic Call us today to schedule manages the day-to-day services for their clients. the company provides a free consultation to your evaluation. Ask Since the inception, Senior Move Managers has determine its clients’ goals, and offers a “plan of & Hearing needs. He has performed how premium cataract helped dozens of clients move into retirement attack” and a schedule to meet those goals. Each thousands of medical procedures care can help you see near, far, and in-between communities, condos, as well as helped clear out client receives customized services based on their that have improved the quality of his with less dependence on family estates. situation. Other services include creating floor patientsÕ vision, and cosmetic proce- glasses. “We’ve seen it all — from the vacant “hoarder plans, coordinating vendors and setting up dures that have enhanced their home” to the everyday senior who has lived in new homes. appearance. He also now offers complete hearing the same home for 80 years. No job is too big or “Our clients tell us that they enjoy the peace of services performed by a National Board Certified too small for us,” Dan says. mind knowing that we’re here to help with every Hearing Instrument Specialist. Quality, personalized, full service eyecare for the whole family! Senior Move Managers can also help with aspect of their move,” Dan says. “We started this Give Dr. Higa a call today! business to help families through an often chal- Christopher Steven downsizing and de-cluttering homes to make M. Tortora, M.D. Rhee, D.O. them safer and more functional for those choosing lenging phase of life. As a local, family-owned Hugo Higa, M.D., is a dual-trained Ophthalmologist and Oculoplastic Hawaii’s Leading Cataract Surgeons to age in place. “Regardless of age, most people and -operated business, we treat our clients Surgeon. twitter.com/drtortora 621-8448 can use some help with de-cluttering,” Julie says. like family.” Most Insurance Accepted “We do everything possible to minimize stress for For more information, call Cynthia Arnold at Now Open at the Pan Am Building, Street Level n our clients.” 221-8345 or Dan Ihara at 256-7873. 808.947.2020 www.HawaiianEye.com Serving Hawai'i for over 35 years

Phone: 808-591-0222 Email: [email protected] n Past issue RESOURCE GUIDE Listings p 20 | KHON2’s Action Line Get more information online, | p 21 Program Office hours: Weekdays between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. www.Generations808.com n Calender Events and Notice Information AT YOUR SERVICE :: AT YOUR SERVICE :: Safe Harbor Home Care, Inc. Time to Scoot! re you a caregiver Safe Harbor Home Care, Inc. can be your hanks in part to convincing commercials on 3. Are you going to use the device every day? Ato your mom, dad partner in managing care giving for your family. TTV, many people are sold on the benefits of How much time will you be on the vehicle? or others in your family? Its team is lead by Ester Ramos, a registered nurse scooters and powerchairs before they even enter 4. Are you going to transport the scooter or Have you ever thought with 40 years of experience. She owned and man- a showroom. powerchair with a vehicle or take TheBus about seeking assistance aged a 23-bed care home for 13 years. Prior to that, The problem is that they don’t know much or HandiVan? but felt guilty about she owned and managed a Medicare/Medicaid- about the products themselves or what’s involved __ Will you use it in a place of employment? accepting outside help? certified home health agency in California for 10 in getting a power mobility device covered by __ Will you vacation with it? You may feel like you’re years. In addition, she also managed a hospice insurance companies. __ How will you transport it? giving up on your elders, agency for 3 years. Ester’s nursing and manage- Before you get revved up to go, here’s a list of __ Do you have a lift or ramp for their vehicle? but, in fact, receiving ment background experience is invaluable in the questions to answer yourself before you shop: help can actually make homecare business. 6. Are you going to pay for the mobility device 1. What is your height and weight? Your height yourself or try to get it covered by insurance? If you a better caregiver. Ester has surrounded herself with equally Chris and Evelyn enjoy the and weight will determine which models will opting for insurance, bring in your photo ID, and Taking care of your competent professionals to train, educate and care at their own home. work best for you. all copies of insurance cards on your initial visit elders means giving them supervise nurse’s aides. The trained staff shares to a showroom. the best care possible—whether the attention the core belief that each client and their family 2. Are you going to ride the scooter only indoors, comes from you or from others. During the early situation is unique and must be respected and strictly outdoors, or a combination of both? Dauterman Healthcare & Mobility has many years, your own loving hands and caring heart nurtured. With cultural awareness and sensitivity What activities do you like to do on a daily scooter and powerchair models on display for may be sufficient, but things could become more Safe Harbor establishes mutual trust and a thera- basis? If you are just going to use it indoors you to try. For more information, call 591-8860 n difficult as your elders need more assistance. peutic relationship. you can get a smaller unit with smaller or visit www.dautermanmedical.com. 11-GGO-0981Abatteries. Fosamax If you 2.indd plan 11/8/11 on going 4:26 PM out - 1 -with (Cyan)(Magenta)(Yellow)(BlacK) it for Eventually your fulltime care giving can lead Safe Harbor Home Care, Inc. the day it would require more battery power. to burnout and poor health. 808-638-3638, www.safeharborhomecare.com. n Fosamax, a prescription for femur fractures?

Merck, the maker of Fosamax, failed to Win a fabulous trip to Las Vegas courtesy of Vacations Hawaii! warn doctors and patients that long-term use of Fosamax could cause non-traumatic Just visit www.kidneyhi.org to enter and femur fractures leaving you in severe pain donate! and on a long road to recovery. If you or a loved one have taken Fosamax and Make your car a kidney car. Plus get a great tax deduction for have suffered a femur fracture, call us. donating your car! We can help. There is no fee if there is Your vehicle will earn money to help the NKFH continue to bring important early diagnosis, patient services, no recovery. education and more! Las Vegas! Visit us online www.kidneyhi.org! Show your kidneys some love and donate today! G A ry G ALiher G ALiher D e r obertis o no A ttorneys At L Aw

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Honolulu Office: 610 Ward Avenue, Honolulu, Hawaii 96814 Waipahu Office: 94-258 Waipahu Depot Street, Waipahu, Hawaii 96797 www.galiherlaw.com Email: [email protected] 1314 S. King St. Suite 304, Honolulu HI 96814 Phone: 593.1515 Fax 589.5993 Go online to learn more about our programs, support groups and KHON2’svolunteer Action opportunities: Line www.kidneyhi.orgPhone: 808-591-0222 Email: [email protected] Get more information online, n Past issue RESOURCE GUIDE Listings p 22 | Matsumoto & Clapperton Advertising Date: 11/8/11 REVISED FILE | p 23 Donations • Kidney Cars: 593.1515 • Clothes: 596.7575 Client: Gary Galiher Job# 11-GGO-0981A Program Office hours: Weekdays between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. www.Generations808.comHead: “Fosamax, a prescription for femurn Calenderfractures?” Events and Notice Information • Monetary: 589.5968 Pub: Generations Magazine Run date: Dec/Jan issue Size: 1/2 pg (h); 7” x 4.9375”, 4/color Mtls: PDF-X/1a HEALTH :: ADVICE HEALTH :: When Good Drugs Go Bad by Dr. Ritabelle Fernandes, MD by Susie Corse of AlohaCare, a Hawai‘i-based Medicaid and Medicare health insurance company

1/4 Carbohydrate elp your drugs help you! Your medications ● Throw away drugs no longer in their original Diabetes: Honly work as well as they are handled. container or that can no longer be identified. Where do you keep your medicines? Are they ● Throw away medicines that have changed color, Are You Too Sweet? in different places — some in the medicine cabi- odor or taste, regardless of the expiration date. net, some in the kitchen, and some in your car, Throw away capsules or tablets that stick together, iabetes is a chronic disease characterized purse or elsewhere? It’s important to keep track are harder or softer than normal, or are cracked Dby high levels of blood sugar. According to of your drugs so you know where they are when or chipped. the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, you need them. 25.8 million children and adults in the United ● Check the expiration date for eye drops and States, or 8.3% of the population, have diabetes. Pharmacists encourage all of us to clean out eardrops, too. They may no longer be effective Of this number, 7 million are undiagnosed. our medicine cabinets once a year. Unused or and, worse, could be a breeding ground for Among seniors, 10.9 million, or 26.9% of all expired drugs, over-the-counter medicines, bacteria or fungus. 1/4 Protein 1/2 Vegetables vitamins and herbals can lose their strength persons over the age of 65, have diabetes. HOW DO I THROW DRUGS AWAY? It affects both men and women alike. and may be harmful to your health. Are lifestyle modifications effective? When drugs are thrown away incorrectly, they TYPES OF DIABETES FIVE SAFE STORAGE TIPS: Lifestyle modifications, such as a healthy diet can harm the environment, pets and/or children. ● Store containers in a cool, dry place. Your Type 1 diabetes can occur at any age, but it is and exercise regimen, can be a very effective way Don’t flush old drugs down the toilet or pour them drugs may lose their potency before the expira- most often diagnosed in children, teens or young to keep diabetes in control. Multiple small changes down a sink or drain. tion date if they are exposed to oxygen, heat, adults. This disease results from the body’s failure can lead to improvements in diabetes control, Follow these easy steps before disposing drugs light or humidity. Don’t leave the cotton plug in to produce insulin (a hormone that regulates including a decreased need for medication. in the trash: carbohydrate and fat metabolism in the body) the bottle. The cotton draws moisture into the The Plate Method encourages persons to eat ● Pour the drug into a sealable plastic bag. and requires the person to inject insulin. The container. Many people store their drugs in the their meals filling ½ their plate with fruits and If the drug is a solid (pill, liquid capsule, etc.), exact cause is unknown. bathroom. This is actually one of the worst places vegetables, ¼ carbohydrates (starch) and to keep medicine. Bathroom cabinets tend to be add water to dissolve it. Type 2 diabetes makes up majority of the ¼ lean protein. warm and humid. ● Add kitty litter, sawdust, coffee grounds (or diabetes cases. It occurs in adulthood, but teens any material that mixes with the drug and make are now being diagnosed with it because of high What are the complications of diabetes? ● Take inventory of all your medicines. Make sure that you’re familiar with the drugs and what it less appealing for pets and children to eat) to obesity rates. It results from insulin resistance, Long-term complications include heart disease, they do. Talk to your pharmacist if you have any the plastic bag. a condition in which the body’s cells fail to use stroke, kidney disease, neuropathy, eye diseases questions about your drugs. ● insulin properly. and peripheral vascular disease. These complica- Seal the plastic bag and put it in the regular trash. tions can seriously affect the quality of life ● Make sure that all drugs are clearly labeled ● Remove and destroy all identifying personal in- COMMON SYMPTOMS OF DIABETES: of persons with diabetes. and in their original containers, away from other formation (prescription label) from all containers. Frequent urination substances that might be mistaken for them. How can a person prevent complications If you find a drug and you don’t remember what Sudden weight loss ● Keep drugs out of the reach of children. from diabetes? it is, or you have other drug-related questions, Unusual thirst Keep them secure from teens, reducing the contact the Poison Center Increased hunger Improved blood sugar control can slow the pro- risk of misuse. at 1-800-222-1222 gression of long-term complications. Good control Blurred vision ● Throw away any drugs you no longer need. (24-hours, toll-free, of blood pressure and cholesterol is needed. Any Do not share drugs with others. statewide). n Wounds that are difficult to heal medications the physician prescribes to control Frequent infections these conditions need to be taken consistently. WHY THROW DRUGS AWAY? Tingling or numbness of hands and feet Take an aspirin once a day. Seek out dental care Part of taking drugs safely means not using them at the first sign of infection or other dental issues. after their expiration date. Don’t take any chances How is diabetes diagnosed? Brush and floss daily. Check feet regularly and with a medicine that no longer works the way Blood testing of fasting blood glucose, oral wear good footwear. Yearly eye exam to check it’s supposed to. glucose tolerance test or Hemoglobin A1 test is vision is recommended. Reduce stress as much use to diagnose diabetes. A fasting blood glucose as possible. Quitting smoking is the best decision ● Throw away any drug you have not used of 126 or higher is indicative of diabetes. a person can make to improve their health. n in the past 12 months.

Phone: 808-591-0222 Email: [email protected] n Past issue RESOURCE GUIDE Listings p 24 | KHON2’s Action Line Get more information online, | p 25 Program Office hours: Weekdays between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. www.Generations808.com n Calender Events and Notice Information LIFESTYLE :: LIFESTYLE :: 80 Years of Valuable Service The Blessings of Having a Church Family! by Pastor Russell Higa he Hawai‘i Library for the Blind and Physically The Radio Reading Service Hawai‘i program THandicapped (LBPH) is part of the Hawai‘i allows patrons on Oahu and Maui to listen to State Public Library System (HSPLS) and the selected articles from the Honolulu Star-Advertiser, y mother Sue After the worship celebration Mom would be Library of Congress, National Library Service for articles from local publications like Midweek, M(Sumiko) Higa wheeled to the social hall to gather with her 30 the Blind and Physically Handicapped (NLS). Longs ads, food ads from the local grocery stores died in July of 2010. or so friends for the Senior’s Class. There she She was 84 years “talked story” and had a grand time with all of In 1931, the Trustees of the Library of Hawai‘i and other programs of interest to our local com- old and for nearly her friends. Mom would always come home with made a request through Gov. Judd to have the munity. The library can provide patrons with a half of her life gifts of cookies and candies from her friends. Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped special radio receiver to enjoy the broadcast over she suffered with Sunday mornings were the highlight of my serve as a depository of Braille books produced a sub-channel of KHPR, Hawai‘i Public Radio. rheumatoid arthri- mother’s week. under the national program. This was made For more information and/or application form, tis. Mom came to possible by the signing of the Pratt-Smoot Act contact the Hawai‘i Library for the Blind and live with us in our What are the blessings of having a by President Herbert Hoover on March 3, 1931. Physically Handicapped: Ma¯noa home for church family? In July 1931, Hawai‘i became one of the original Phone: 733-8444 the last two years ● Friends and family may be distant but you can 19 libraries established. Toll-free: 1-800-559-4096 (Neighbor Islands only) of her life. see your friends at church every week. LBPH provides free services to eligible residents Email: [email protected] What was Mom’s greatest joy during the latter ● If you’re fortunate like my mother, you’ll come in the State of Hawai‘i and U.S. territories and Library Hours: years of her life? It was going to church on Sunday. home with all kinds of gifts. possessions in the Pacific area. Patrons must be Mon., Wed., Thurs., Fri.: 8:30 a.m.– 4:30 p.m. After her bath on Saturday afternoon my wife unable to read or use regular print materials due ● A good church family will provide support and Tues.: 10 a.m.– 6 p.m. Judy would fix Mom’s hair up really pretty, and to a visual or physical disability. Certification by prayers for you. Address: pick out a “nice outfit” for her to wear to church. a competent authority is required. Books, maga- ● If you fall asleep during the Pastor’s sermon no 402 Kapahulu Ave., Honolulu, HI 96815 n zines and special equipment are made available On Sunday mornings, Mom would get up very one will judge you. But they may wake you if for borrowing. early and Judy would dress her in her “nice you start snoring. outfit.” Then, at 7 a.m., I’d help her get into our LBPH provides books and magazines in audio, car. Once she was seated in the car, I would pull ● It’s a lot better than watching TV or Korean Braille and large type formats, as well as trans- Compassionate Care down the car visor’s mirror above her so she soap operas all the time. cribing and radio reading services. You Deserve could take one last glimpse at how she looked. ● You will be encouraged and inspired by the The audio book program has seen many I’d tell her that she looked real good! Once we spiritual lessons that you will learn. changes over the years, from long playing records Locally owned and operated. We are here to arrived at church I would help my mother into ● You’ll have a Christmas party to go to (if you to cassette tapes to digital technology. Patrons, serve you as your neighbor, friend, and her wheelchair and move her to her favorite spot attend our church)! both adults and children, have been able to enjoy caregiving professional. at the back of the church. There she would chat Services: their favorite books and magazines. with her friends and many would come to greet Make Sunday mornings a delightful time of RN Case Mgrs. / Supervisors her and hug her. Mom was always smiling your week. Find a good church and be blessed by Now, registered patrons can also borrow Homemakers / Chore Workers on Sundays. having a church family. Digital Talking Book Machines and Digital Books. Personal Care Aides The smaller lightweight machine has improved For Dedicated digital sound quality and a rechargeable battery. Blessings!, Care and Service Technology has also made it easier for patrons You Can Trust Pastor Russell Higa to enjoy the thousands of books available through NLS. Registered patrons can now download books Call us today! through BARD (Braille and Audio Reading Down- load). Contact LBPH for more information. Large type books are also available to those who have a HSPLS library card. You can apply for a library card at LBPH or any public library. 808-488-8826 The Transcribing Services Section at LBPH 808-488-8827 Fax produces materials not already available into www.safeharborhomecare.com accessible formats.

Phone: 808-591-0222 Email: [email protected] n Past issue RESOURCE GUIDE Listings p 26 | KHON2’s Action Line Get more information online, | p 27 Program Office hours: Weekdays between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. www.Generations808.com n Calender Events and Notice Information For more detailed and complete list of resources For a complete list of resources, RESOURCE GUIDE :: go to Generations808.com visit www.Generations808.com SUPPORT OUR TRUSTED ADVERTISERS Company Business/Service Website Phone

15 Craigside Senior Living Residence 15craigside.org 546-6188 Kupuna Monitoring Systems Personal Response Systems kupunamonitoring.com 721-1201

Ala Moana Hotel Hotel and Restaurant alamoanahotelhonolulu.com 944-4333 Lincoln Heritage Financial [email protected] 232-0219

AlohaCare Health Care Insurance alohacare.org 973-1650 Medy’s Arch HomeCare [email protected] 833-0919

Arcadia Senior Living Residence arcadia-hi.org 546-6188 Michael Yee Financial Adviser ameripriseadvisors.com 952-1240

Big City Diner Restaurant bigcitydinerhawaii.com 591-8891 Mobile Notary Mobile Notary Services [email protected] 330-5380

Captain Cook Coin Coin and Estate Collector captaincookcoin.com 391-2646 Paradise Nursing In-home Services paradisnursing.net 484-4885

Choate Appraisal Service Hawai‘i Estate Planning Attorney [email protected] 945-0779 Pre-Paid Legal Services Indentity Theft & Legal Srv. Co. [email protected] 781-4709

CSI Money Manager Non-profit csihawaii.org 233-9178 Real Estate Referral Services Real Estate Referral Co. [email protected] 722-8487

Prudential Advantage Real Estate Company oahuhome.biz 754-2225 Rehabilitation Hospital of the Pacific Rehabilitation Hospital rehabhospital.org 531-3511

Dauterman Healthcare Durable Medical Supplies dautermanmedical.com 591-8860 RevoluSun Solar Panel Company revolusun.com 748-8888

Dr Hugo Higa Ophthalmologist aestheticvision.com 947-2020 Safe Harbor Homecare, Inc. Home Care Service safeharborhomecare.com 488-8826

Dr. Char Holistic Doctor drjohnchar.com 866-612-0034 Salvation Army Non-profit Agency salvationarmyhawaii.org 988-2136

Eyesight Hawaii Ophthalmology eyesighthawaii.com 735-1935 Scott Gardner & Co. Medicaid Specialist scottgardnerco.com 585-0029

Galiher DeRobertis Ono Attornies at Law galiherlaw.com 597-1400 Est8Planning Counsel LLLC Estate Planning Attorney www.est8planning.com 587-8227

Global Executive Realty Real Estate hawaiipropertylistingpro.com 782-8920 SECOH (Special Edu. Ctr., HI) Adult Day Ctr. & Sr. Srv. secoh.org 734-0233

Hale Ho Aloha Carehome Services halehoaloha.com 275-3001 Senior Move Managers Senior Move Manager smmhawaii.com 221-8345

Hawaiian Eye Center Ophthalmology hawaiianeye.com 521-1160 Stephen Yim Estate Planning Attorney stephenyimestateplanning.com 524-0251

Hino Hairstyles Hairstyle Center [email protected] 949-6147 The Caregiver Foundation Caregiver Non-profit thecaregiverfoundation.org 625-3782

Holomua Physical Therapy Physcal Therapy 531-1122 The Plaza Assisted Living Assisted Living Facility theplazaassistedliving.com 792-8800

Honolulu Home Care Home Care Service honolulucare.com 595-2273 Vacations Hawaii Las Vegas Travel boydvacationshawaii.com 591-4700

Hookele Home Health Company hookelehealth.com 457-1655 Humana Health Care Insurance humana.com 545-5756 THERE’S NO PLACE LIKE HOME! Kaiser Hospitals Hopsital Services kp.org 432-7940 CUSTOMIZED & PERSONAL IN-HOME CARE Kokua Care In-home Services kokuacare.com 734-5555 THE AFFORDABLE ALTERNATIVE TO Kupuna Concierge In-home Services childandfamilyservice.org 543-8423 ASSISTED LIVING FACILITIES Call 734-5555 • www.kokuacare.com LEEWARD 671-9000 • WINDWARD 262-1155 • EAST O’AHU 396-9555 Screened, Trained, Bonded & Insured KHON2’s Action Line Phone: 808-591-0222 Email: [email protected] p 28 | • IN-HOME ASSESSMENT & HOME SAFETY EVALUATION Program Office hours: Weekdays between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. FREE • 10 HOUR SERVICE (After purchase of ﬁ rst 100 hrs.) 8 PBN SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION A reprint from PBN SpecialBEST Advertising DOCTORS Section: HAWAII BEST2011 DOCTORS HAWAII 2011 OCTOBER 21, 2011 EyeSight Hawaii Unveils New

State-of-the-Art Eye Care Facility Think of Küpuna Concierge as a fine hotel Concierge with professional Experience Vision at its Best. EyeSight Hawaii was established Personal Assistants always “At your service.” Thank you, Hawaii, for putting in 1999 to provide the highest level your trust in us for more than a of eye care to the people of Hawaii. decade. Featuring: With the addition of new high From our initial comprehensive assessment and safety evaluation to our Eyesight Hawaii Vision Institute tech diagnostic and care treatment senior concierge services, we provide services that promote safe in-home is Hawaii’s premier center for the options, we have expanded to our diagnosis and management of new 5,000 square foot advanced living that respects the need for personal freedom. Cataract, Dry Eye, Pterygium and eye care facility located at The Corneal Disorders. Shops at Dole Cannery. • As a Personal Assistant, we simplify life by taking care of the day- EyeSight Hawaii Optical has to-day tasks including personal care, transportation, and scheduling designer eyewear, sunglasses and sport/safety glasses for kids and appointments. adults. Laser Vision Hawaii features • As a Concierge, we offer multiple activities based on individual state-of-the-art LASIK laser vision correction for the correction of interests and preferences such as health and wellness programs, salon nearsighted, farsighted and astig- and spa visits, theatre and concerts, and golf outings and tee times. matic patients. Eye Surgery Center of Hawaii, Hawaii’s newest and most ad- Unparalleled hospitality and a variety of lifestyle choice, Küpuna vanced eye surgery center for Cata- OPENFREE EYE HOUSE SEMINAR AT Concierge provides the finest services that supports quality senior living. ract, Cornea, Glaucoma and Retina THE“New NEW Eye TreatmentsEYESIGHT For more information, please call 543-8423 or email kupunaconcierge@ surgery, is affiliated with EyeSight Hawaii and located next door. HAWAIIfor Old Eye FACILITY Problems” cfs-hawaii.org. Visit www.childandfamilyservice.org. Convenient morning, evening and weekend hours. New patients THURSDAY,DECEMBER 6 and and walk-ins welcome. Most insurance plans accepted. OCTOBERJANUARY 2427 3:00 pm to 5:007:00 pm

FREE Vision Screening FREE Refreshments and Pupus FREE SafetyPrizes Glasses

RSVP to [email protected] or [email protected] (808) 735-1935

Jonathan Etter, MD joined EyeSight John Olkowski, MD has over 20 Hawaii in 2010 after completing a years of experience in Cataract, www.est8planning.com cornea fellowship at the prestigious Cornea and LASIK surgery. He is Bascom Palmer Eye Institute repeatedly voted one of the Best (voted #1 eye program in Doctors in Hawaii. HONOLULU OFFICE the country). He special- izes in Cataract, Cornea Alakea Corporate Tower Sign up online and LASIK surgery. 1100 Alakea Street, Suite 2424 for a no pressure, Honolulu, Hawai‘i 96813-2840 no obligation (808) 587-8227 Est8Plannning Essentials workshop! MAUI OFFICE www. est8plannning.com 411 Huku Li‘i Place, Suite 201 Kihei, Hawai‘i 96753-7062 (808) 891-8881

EXPERIENCE VISION AT ITS BEST WITH EYESIGHT HAWAII THE SHOPS AT DOLE CANNERY | 650 IWILEI ROAD, SUITE 210 | HONOLULU, HI 96817 (808)(808) 737-1935735-1935 | EYESIGHTHAWAII.COM n Past issue RESOURCE GUIDE Listings Get more information online, | p 31 www.Generations808.com n Calender Events and Notice Information US GOVT PROGRAMS & SERVICES :: MEDICARE US GOVT PROGRAMS & SERVICES :: SOCIAL SECURITY What’s Special in 2012 with Medicare Autumn Lessons for Retirement by Pamela Cunningham, Hawai‘i SHIP – Sage PLUS Program by Jane Yamamoto-Burigsay, Social Security Public Affairs Specialist in Hawai‘i

he holidays quickly came and went, along Hawai‘i, be proud, we have one of them. Hope- n autumn, animals know winter is coming retire. Learn about retirement planning and how Twith December 7th, which is the end of fully in 2013 all of our health and drug plans will Iand take the steps to prepare. Bears grow to save at www.socialsecurity.gov/retire2/other2. Medicare’s annual enrollment period. Some folks be rated with 5 stars. thicker fur and settle in for peaceful hibernation. htm. But wait, there’s more. missed their opportunity to add, change or drop This special enrollment period is available Squirrels collect and store acorns and other nuts. If you decide you’re going to be a “snowbird” their Medicare plan, and they want to know if December 8, 2011– 2012. It is a one-time opportu- Birds, favoring warmer weather, migrate south when retirement comes, and go to warmer cli- they have any options now that the annual enroll- nity to change to a 5 star plan, if it is available in for the winter. mates during winter weather, make sure that your ment period is over. your area. You can do this at anytime beginning When it comes to preparing for retirement, Social Security payment goes with you. The best There are several opportunities to change at December 8, 2011. This special enrollment period we can learn from the animals—making sure way to do that is to use direct deposit. You never this date and we are going to explain each one. again is not an opportunity to add or drop health the transition into the later years of our lives is have to worry about your monthly payment — and drug coverage. as smooth and comfortable as possible. The best it will show up in your bank account whether Annual Disenrollment Period: place to start is a visit to www.socialsecurity.gov. you’re in the Dakotas or the Florida Keys. Other Special Enrollment Periods: Each year from January 1st – February 14th You can get an instant, personalized estimate Learn all about electronic payments at www. is the annual disenrollment period. During this If you receive “Extra Help” (also known as low- of your future Social Security benefits at www. socialsecurity.gov/deposit. time if you are in a Medicare Advantage Plan income subsidy), you have a continuous special socialsecurity.gov/estimator. Whether you’re in the spring, summer, or (AlohaCare, HMSA, Humana, Kaiser Permanent, enrollment period throughout the year. entering the autumn of your life, the best time Ohana Health Plan and UnitedHealthcare), you To prepare for a comfortable retirement, you Working Individuals. If you didn’t sign up for should start saving as early as possible. Social to start preparing for retirement is always the have a one-time opportunity to change back to Medicare Part A and/or Part B when you were present. Even the animals know they can’t wait Original/Traditional Medicare (only) and enroll Security is the foundation for a secure retirement, first eligible for Medicare (at 65 years of age) but was never meant to be the sole-source of until the last minute to prepare for a comfortable in a Medicare Part D plan if your Medicare Advan- and you were covered under an employer group winter. Take a lesson from our furry and feathered tage plan included drug coverage. You cannot use income for retirees. In addition to Social Security, health plan based on current employment (either you also will need savings, investments, pen- friends and prepare for your own comfortable, this opportunity to add or drop prescription drug you or your spouse or family member if you are and cozy, retirement. n coverage. If you decide to use this option, please sions or retirement accounts to make sure you disabled) and that coverage ends, you have an have enough money to live comfortably when you check with your health care providers (favorite 8-month window to enroll in Medicare Part B and physician, therapists) and make sure that they 63 days to enroll in drug coverage. If you miss will accept Original/Traditional Medicare and either of those windows then you have to wait continue to see you as a patient. until the general or annual enrollment periods. New Five-Star Special Enrollment Period: COBRA benefits (federal law which allows you Lift Chairs to purchase your employer health coverage) is This is a new benefit in 2012. Medicare has not considered “creditable coverage” for Medicare been collecting data on the Medicare Health and Part B and you may not be eligible for a special Drug Plans and has rated them on a five “star” enrollment period and may have to pay higher As low as scale, based on standard performance measures. premiums when you do enroll. Five Star being excellent performance and one $695 star being poor performance. Some of the mea- If you would like to know more about special sures include: member satisfaction, managing enrollment periods, you can view the Medicare chronic conditions, staying healthy, customer ser- & You handbook (paper form or on-line). For The Gift of vice and pharmacy benefits. Medicare gets some more information about enrolling in Medicare Independence of this data from the “member satisfaction” sur- Part B, please visit www.socialsecurity.gov. And veys that you sometimes receive from your health for information about Medicare and the health LINCOLN HERITAGE FUNERAL ADVANTAGE plan after a visit to the doctor. Also, if you’ve plans available in Hawai‘i, please call Sage PLUS GOLDEN HERITAGE PLAN Protecting your wishes and your loved ones. called 1-800-Medicare and registered a “concern Program, also known as the Hawai‘i SHIP “Your Source for Home Care Products” (State Health Insurance Assistance Program). For information on our Final Expense Life Insurance 591-8860 or complaint,” they take those calls very seriously. including sponsored membership in the 1350 S. King St., Suite 101 • Honolulu This program is a federal grant from Medicare Funeral Consumer Guardian Society Showroom Hours: Mon - Fri 9am - 6pm Not every state and county has access to a Sat 10am - 4pm to assist you in understanding the benefits of the Please call: 1-800-260-6625 - No obligation- dautermanmedical.com five-star plan. In 2012 there are approximately Medicare Program. n We care about your peace of mind! LHGH11 nine health plans in the nation that are “5 stars.”

Phone: 808-591-0222 Email: [email protected] n Past issue RESOURCE GUIDE Listings p 32 | KHON2’s Action Line Get more information online, | p 33 Program Office hours: Weekdays between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. www.Generations808.com n Calender Events and Notice Information AARP :: LEGAL WISDOM ::

Medy’s Arch I, LLC AARP Survey Shows Adult Residential Care and New and Powerful Island Residents Unclear Expanded Care Facility Estate Planning Tool: about Who Pays for the Hawai‘i Asset by Scott Makuakane Long-Term Care Protection Trust (APT) Est8Planning Counsel, LLLC Located in a quiet neighborhood in Salt Lake nestled between the Honolulu Country early 800 residents throughout Hawai’i attended public Club & Moanalua High School. wo years ago, Hawai‘i joined Delaware, kind of property into his or her APT, and there • Each Resident is provided with the Ninformation sessions on long-term in mid-October. The highest standard of care; treated with TNevada and 11 other states in validating is no 1% tax imposed on each asset transferred events were hosted by AARP and featured state and national dignity and respect. self-settled spendthrift trusts. What this means is into the trust. The new law became effective on • Private rooms. Shared room available issue experts who brought the realities and myths of long-term • Reasonable rates. Flexible visiting hours. that you can now create a trust for yourself that July 1, 2011, and Hawai‘i APTs are now viable care into sharper focus. • Staffed by RN’s, CNA’s, NA’s & well will protect your assets from your own creditors. tools in many people’s estate plans. trained caregivers. This is a huge departure from prior law, which Among the many issues covered was the role of Medicare in Art & Judy Von Ploennies say, “Medy is A Hawai‘i APTs is not for everybody. You paying for long-term care — an apparent source of confusion for committed to providing her clients with the expressly prohibited such trusts. For convenience, should only create one if you understand what it highest level of care and respect. She is an we will call them APTs, which stands for Asset many older Island residents. A new survey of AARP members in experienced, caring, devoted care giver. Her is and how it works, and before you do anything Hawai’i shows that 27 percent of O’ahu residents age 50+ believe Care Home is always neat and clean. We are Protection Trusts. else, you should seek the assistance of competent pleased to have Medy take care of our Mother Medicare pays for long-term care services if they or a family who has been with her for over four years Not only do APTs provide asset protection, legal counsel and other advisors who can help member become ill or disabled, even though the federal program now.” they can also be made to last forever, or at least you evaluate whether this is a workable strategy provides extremely limited coverage. Call (808) 833-0919 until all of the assets are used up. Hawai‘i law for you. for further information and has long recognized something called the rule The survey shows that Neighbor Island residents are more likely a private meeting. The new Hawai‘i law says that you cannot be to believe Medicare pays for long-term care than Honolulu resi- against perpetuities, which essentially says that the trustee of your own APT, but you can pick dents: Kona (41 percent), Kaua’i (40 percent), Hilo (35 percent), a private trust (that is, any trust other than a any Hawai‘i resident or Hawai‘i financial insti- and Maui (32 percent). This misplaced confidence — in the face charitable trust) can last for about 100 years, and tution as your trustee. The trustee can have the of Hawai’i’s rapidly aging population — underscores the need for then the trust must terminate, and the assets must discretion to make distributions to you or for your public education about the costs of long term care and how to be distributed. This is a throwback to the law of benefit, but you cannot have the unfettered right pay for it. England (where most American law comes from) to demand whatever you want whenever you and a time when the king did not want land being want it. You can also retain the right to give the “Two-thirds of us will probably need some form of long-term tied up in trusts because it impaired his ability to care support at some point after reaching age 65,” says AARP trustee investment advice, and you can also have tax it. Now that our government has developed a the right to veto distributions from the trust. Hawai’i State President Stuart Ho. “Yet, Hawai’i residents are solution to this problem, Hawai‘i has joined the woefully uninformed about the basic realities of long-term care — ranks of states that allow the creation of so-called Perhaps the most important thing to under- including how much it costs and who pays for it.” Continue Dynasty Trusts. stand about Hawai‘i APTs is that they do not shelter assets from claims of existing creditors. A featured speaker at the public events was AARP Senior Enjoying Your Hawai‘i’s first attempt at allowing APTs, which Legislative Representative Ilene Henshaw, who focused on the In other words, you cannot incur a debt (for ex- Journey was back in 2010, was doomed to failure. For ample, by way of a car accident or a bad business coverage — and coverage limitations — of Medicare and Medicaid. • Senior Real Estate one thing, the law imposed a 1% tax on all assets She also identified questions to ask when considering private Specialist deal) and then create a Hawai‘i APT to shield you transferred to APTs. The law also limited the from liability on that debt. On the other hand, insurance and other financing options. Ho, who also serves as • Speaker on kinds of assets that could be put into APTs, and the ideal time to create a Hawai‘i APT is before chair of the Long-Term Care Commission, offered an update on the “Aging in Place” it allowed a trustmaker (someone creating an challenges facing Hawai’i as the Commission gets ready to present you start a new business or launch a practice in a • Complimentary APT) to place assets comprising no more than field such as medicine, law, or architecture, where recommendations for reform to the state Legislature in 2012. Home Safety 25% of his or her net worth into an APT. Since legal claims against you are an ongoing risk. n If you have questions about Medicare and Medicaid and how walk through the laws of other states did not include these much the programs pay for long-term care, the State of Hawai’i’s For a consultation restrictions, there was very little incentive for For more information about Scott Makuakane and Sage PLUS program, 586-7299, is a great source of information. call Joett Colgan, REALTOR someone to create a Hawai‘i APT. his law firm, Est8Planning Counsel, LLLC, visit at 808.782.8920 www.est8planning.com. Or tune into his weekly If you belong to a group and would like to invite AARP Hawai’i In 2011, our Legislature removed the restric- to speak to your members about planning for long-term care, TV talk show, Est8Planning Essentials on KWHE Global Executive Realty, LLC tions on APTs, so that a person can place any (Oceanic channel 11) at 8:30 a.m. on Sunday evenings. call AARP Hawai’i at 545-6006. n [email protected] www.HawaiiPropertyListingPro.com

Phone: 808-591-0222 Email: [email protected] n Past issue RESOURCE GUIDE Listings p 34 | KHON2’s Action Line Get more information online, | p 35 Program Office hours: Weekdays between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. www.Generations808.com n Calender Events and Notice Information BETTER BUSINESS BUREAU

n June 27, 2011, the A New Law ble Trust allows us to appoint Charity Scams Target Seniors Heavily Hawai‘i Legislature Enhances someone we trust to make enacted a law allowing decisions for us. The alter- During the Holiday’s O Estate Plans Visit www.bbb.org. the transfer of property at death native is guardianship court using a beneficiary designa- where a judge decides who onating money to charity Think before you give. If you Watch out for cases of mis- tion called a Transfer on Death will make decisions for us. Dis one of the most selfless are solicited at home or on the taken identity. With hundreds Deed (TODD). The TODD is “The last Helping beneficiaries re- things a person can do. Unfortu- street, take a minute or two to of registered charities in Hawai‘i affords people the opportunity temptation ceive inheritance. A recent nately, criminals can easily prey “think.” Ask for the charity’s alone, it’s not surprising that to avoid probate, by substitut- 30-year study analyzed 3,250 on these selfless acts, using name and address, and get full some charity names sound alike. is the a person’s desire to help the identification from the solicitor Be careful that the one soliciting ing the TODD for other estate estate plans that were written planning tools, such as a Will greatest less fortunate for their own and review it carefully. Ask to you is the one you have in mind. by lawyers. Disturbingly, 7 out personal gain. see written information on the or Trust. The state reasoned of 10 plans failed. Less than 2% Watch out for charity fraud. treason: Seniors should be especially charity’s programs and finances. Legitimate charities do not de- that the TODD would bring failed due to “faulty lawyer- simplicity and reduced cost of mindful of fraud schemes during Giving later might be better. mand donations. They willingly ing,” such as causing a pro- the holidays. The FBI notes that Never feel pressured to give provide written information their estate plan. To do the bate or paying too much estate seniors are most likely to have on the spot. Legitimate chari- about their programs, finances I would encourage you to right deed tax. The rest failed because a nest egg and an exceptional ties will welcome your money or how donations are used; and consider the TODD not as a for the wrong siblings fought with each credit rating, making them very tomorrow. If the solicitor pres- they never insist you provide substitute, but as an enhance- reason.” other, trustees quit, minor chil- attractive to criminals. sures you with intimidation or your credit card number, bank ment to your estate plan. The dren inherited assets causing If you plan to donate money harassing phone calls, don’t account number or any other hesitate to file a complaint personal information. n quote by poet T.S. Elliot, a guardianship proceeding, this holiday season, the Better T.S. Elliot with BBB. reminds us of an important spendthrift children received Business Bureau (BBB) offers message — that motivation is important, and their inheritance outright and misspent it, or the following advice: if the reason for doing something is unsound, responsible children lost their inheritance to Be cautious when giving it can disrupt the design and flaw the entire divorce or creditors. online. Be cautious about online giving, especially in response plan. Using the TODD as a substitute could Consider the TODD not a substitute but as to spam messages and emails cause missed opportunities, such as: an enhancement of your plan. The TODD can that claim to link to a relief Simplification through consolidation. A also benefit people who own real estate as organization. Trust can consolidate all instructions into husband and wife, or tenants by the entirety When in doubt, check it out. one place. Once assets are directed into a (T/E). They hold their property as T/E for the When an unfamiliar organiza- Trust, only the Trust needs to be reviewed State Legislated creditor-protection. The risk tion asks you for a donation, to make sure that it continues to align with to couples holding title this way is probate if don’t give without gathering the benefactor’s wishes. Naming numer- they die simultaneously. However, a TODD details about the charity, the nature of its programs and its ous beneficiaries adds complexity to a plan, can be prepared to name the couples’ Trust use of funds. g� .� necessitating the examination of several as the beneficiary of the property, eliminating Put�our�Identity�Theft�Shield�to�work�for�you�.� Check out a charity’s claims. forms every time the plan is reviewed. the risk of probate. It also allows the couple Despite what an organization The�average�identity�theft�victim� to continue to enjoy the creditor-protection Planning for incapacity. Injury and illness claims, charities have fundrais- spends�more�than�$�1200�in�the� that holding property as T/E affords. can happen at any time. Sometimes, we may ing and administrative costs. quest�to�clear�his�or�her�name�.� Even a credit card donation become incapacitated to the point where The State Legislature may have under- - Federal�Trade�Commission�(FTC)� we cannot make decisions for ourselves. estimated the beneficial use of the TODD, will involve, at a minimum, a processing fee. If a charity For more information and to enroll, please contact� Making a Health Care Power of Attorney, and it’s to our advantage to use it as a way to claims that 100 percent of col- Peterson Rosario� Financial Power of Attorney and a Revoca- protect and enhance estate plans. lected funds will be assisting, Small Business, Group Benefits & CDLP Specialist� check it out. Independent Associate, Pre-Paid Legal Services, Inc.� [email protected] 808.781.4709� Stephen B. Yim, Attorney at Law 2054 S. Beretania Street, Honolulu, HI 96826 Get more information online, n Past issue RESOURCE GUIDE Listings (808) 524-0251 stephenyimestateplanning.com | p 37 www.Generations808.com n Calender Events and Notice Information

Caring for elderly loved ones or people with disabilities is an honorable undertaking. Caregivers often become overwhelmed when they must take on the added responsibility of providing fi nancial oversight and paying monthly bills. Where can they turn for help? CSI, Inc. (Comfort, Security, Independence) is a Hawaii nonprofi t whose experienced case managers specialize in managing the fi nancial affairs of the elderly or people with disabilities. Because CSI works exclusively with this group, it is uniquely qualifi ed to navigate the complex fi nancial challenges and social circumstances often faced by these individuals. Since 1987, CSI has safeguarded the fi nancial assets of those who may be vulnerable to fi nancial loss through the following services: Overwhelmed with years of stuff? Call Senior Move Managers

We Specialize in: * Downsizing & De-Cluttering Years of Personal Belongings * Retirement Community & Care Home Move-ins • Daily Money Management Estate Clear Outs: liquidation, donation, disposal & cleaning • Bank reconciliation * Customized Floor Planning, Organizing, & Setting up • Preparing and delivering bank deposits * • Organizing tax documents and other paperwork your new home to move right in. • Negotiating with creditors • Deciphering medical insurance papers and verifying proper processing of claims We help take the stress out of • Providing referrals to legal, tax, and investment professionals • Durable Power of Attorney downsizing & de-cluttering. • Personal Representative • Trust Administration Call us at 221-8345 or visit • Conservatorship www.smmhawaii.com

For a free consultation with no obligation, to set up a FREE personal consultation please contact us at 538-0353 or or seminar for you or your group. check out our website at www.csihawaii.org.

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