Facilitator - Bob Ratzel

Have you been reviewing the options for your next stage of life? Circumstances can change quickly and there’s comfort in having made preparations.

Over the last ten years, I’ve visited about a dozen community living facilities in three states. I’ve also attended many programs to learn about a wide variety of local services for seniors.

Even though I thought I was prepared, I suddenly spent 10 days in intensive care, followed by 5 1/2 months in two rehabilitation facilities, followed by home health care. In the last 18 months I’ve survived 180 days with 10 raucous roommates, 12 days of isolation due to norovirus, occasional abuse and neglect, 150 breakfasts of powdered scrambled eggs and burnt hash browns, 25 aides, 20 OT/PT’s, over 2000 pills, a farsighted podiatrist, and abandonment at White Castle on 95th Street!

My Medicare health care report shows hundreds of thousands in billed services and drugs. My AMEX card is looking for weight loss programs.

We’ll review our local resources for seniors and ways to find various supports to remain safely and comfortably in our homes, apartment, or condo. We’ll talk about family care issues vs. hiring an aide through an agency, or directly with your own contract. Then we’ll explore the continuum of senior living - big house, little house/condo, shared housing, active adult communities, senior apartment complexes and continuing care living styles.

Perhaps you’ll volunteer as a CCC scout reviewer?

Join us for lively hours of storytelling, information, and laughter while you take steps on the unique journey for you and your family!