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Be in the Know: Life Plan Communities Offer Some Valuable Tax Benefits

January 25, 2024/in Blog

When looking at retirement living options, buying or renting into a senior living community are well-known options. But choosing to live in a Life Plan Community offers some valuable federal tax benefits that other senior living options do not. Read on to learn more.

What is a Life Plan Community?
Life plan communities, also known as continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs), provide the security of having a plan in place for any future healthcare needs that might arise. Residents live independently, knowing if they ever need care, they’ll have it. Most CCRCs offer multiple service levels: independent living, assisted living, skilled nursing, and memory support services, all available when you need them.

What are the tax benefits?
Current federal income tax laws permit residents at Life Plan Communities or CCRCs like John Knox Village in Pompano Beach a tax deduction on a sizeable portion of the one-time entrance fee the year of move-in. In addition, a percentage of the monthly service fees paid during each year can be itemized as a medical expense.

At the beginning of each year, in some communities, such as John Knox Village, auditors calculate the portion of the Entrance Fees and Monthly Service Fees that are attributable to medical expenses and provide this information to residents for their tax preparation.

Can a financial advisor help me navigate this?
Tax and financial advisors can play a crucial role in helping seniors living in CCRCs and Life Plan Communities navigate the complexities of tax laws related to their unique situation. An advisor can help you understand CCRC-related tax deductions, such as:

• The amount or portion of your healthcare services and fees to the CCRC, as applicable
• Other potential itemizable deductions, such as local income taxes related to living in a CCRC
• Specific tax implications of different types of CCRC contracts, including the nuances of life care, fee-for-service, and other modified contracts

In addition, financial advisors can help seniors project future healthcare needs and provide guidance on potential tax implications for accessing long-term care services within or outside of the CCRC.

How much can I deduct?
According to Carol Enisman, Investment Advisor Representative and Managing Partner at Premier Wealth Planning in Fort Lauderdale, “The current tax code allows you to deduct a portion of your unreimbursed medical and dental expenses that exceed a set percentage of your Adjusted Gross Income.”

However, she says, it’s important to note that you’ll need to itemize your deductions rather than take a standard deduction, which would disqualify you from claiming medical expenses.

I’m not sure which type of care contract I’m going to choose. Can you tell me the tax benefits of each?
The tax benefits may vary, depending on which type of care contract you select. A Life Plan Community Consultant can explain the different contract options, including Type A, B, and C contracts, and what each includes. Depending on how much healthcare coverage is included in the contract you choose, the medical expense tax benefit may vary.

For some types of CCRC contracts, a portion of the entry fee and monthly fee may be applied toward future medical expenses. Essentially, this portion is considered a pre-paid medical expense and may be included as part of your annual medical expenses.

It’s always best to speak with your tax professional, who will be able to advise you with up-to-date tax regulations.

Are there any other tax deductions seniors should keep in mind when filing taxes?
Most of us know that medical bills, hospital bills, prescription costs, dental and vision care, in-home medical care, and costs for hearing aids and glasses are tax deductible.

Another hidden gem that might surprise you is that the standard mileage rate for driving to and from doctor appointments, therapy sessions, and other medical care is also tax deductible.

JOIN US FOR A FREE TAX SEMINAR IN MARCH

Join us for a free seminar on Monday, March 11, 2024 at 11:00 am, at the John Knox Village Auditorium. We’re excited to welcome Carol Enisman, Investment Advisor and Managing Partner, and Ariel Enisman, Estate Planning and Asset Protection Attorney from Premier Wealth Planning in Fort Lauderdale, to our campus. JKV Residents and guests are welcome.

Carol will focus on the importance of proper tax planning, tax filing updates, and optimization strategies and will offer a new client discount of 25% for tax preparation this year. Ariel will be speaking on wills, trusts, probate avoidance, and the importance of proper estate planning.

Premier Wealth Planning works with clients to understand the complexities of the tax code and how it applies to residents of a CCRC. Non-JKV Residents who are interested in attending are welcome. Please call John Knox Village at (954) 783-4040 to RSVP.

Premier Wealth Planning Mandatory Disclaimer:
Securities are offered through Registered Representatives of Cambridge Investment Research, Inc., a broker-dealer member FINRA/SIPC. Advisory services through Cambridge Investment Research Advisors, Inc., a SEC Registered Investment Adviser. Cambridge and Premier Wealth Planning are not affiliated. Cambridge and Asset and Estate Planning, LLC are not affiliated. Cambridge does not offer tax nor legal advice.

12 Reasons Why Pickleball May Be the Greatest Sport to Ever Come Along

January 11, 2024/in Blog

Whether or not you’ve taken to the court yet, it’s hard to escape the fastest-growing sport in the United States. Pickleball, the racket sport that’s a Badminton-Ping-Pong hybrid, seems to be everywhere! With its skyrocketing popularity and the demand for places to play, public parks are making renovations to create more courts to keep up with demand, and now empty retail spaces abandoned by the likes of Bed Bath and Beyond are being considered as potential locations for indoor courts.

What makes pickleball so great? JKV Residents Michael and Barbara say it gives them “purpose to get up in the morning and get moving.” Barb says, “When we’re playing, we are using almost all the muscles in the body, and the game connects us socially to so many other residents. We laugh so much when we play! We’re so lucky to live at JKV and to be able to utilize the beautiful pickleball courts, any time of the day, at the new Aquatic Center.” She says the reason they play almost every day is, “A day without pickleball is like a day without sunshine.”

If you’re not already in the game and that hasn’t convinced you, here are 12 reasons why you should be playing:

It’s Easy to Learn

Pickleball is an approachable sport. Even for those not athletically inclined, it’s a non-intimidating sport that can turn even the most unlikely candidate into an athlete. You can step onto the court and be at an intermediate level within a short amount of time. Unlike tennis, the rules and basic techniques are relatively easy to learn.

Anyone Can Get in the Game

Whether you’ve always been active by nature, or have always wanted to be, pickleball is suitable for all fitness levels. The size of the court is one-fourth the size of a tennis court. With that much less real estate to cover while trying to hit the ball, it’s less intimidating for those who may not be athletes.

It Contributes to Longevity

A Mayo Clinic study found that playing racket sports may increase the life expectancy of participants by 6 to 10 years. Although the study was observational by nature, it was noted that because racket sports involve more interaction with others than individual sports, and socialization has been shown to positively impact one’s well-being, this benefit may be a factor in pickleball’s overall health benefit.

Your Heart Will Get a Low-Impact Workout

Playing pickleball provides a moderate workout for middle-aged and older people but may be safer than tennis for people with heart issues. Although it’s a cardiovascular workout, it doesn’t put excessive strain on the body. You’ll burn twice as many calories as you would walking 3 miles per hour on moderate terrain.

You’ll Build Muscle and Improve Your Balance

In addition to the boost it gives your cardiovascular system, playing pickleball requires hand-eye coordination, and builds your muscles. Your forearms, biceps, triceps, hamstrings, and quadriceps are all getting a great workout when you play. It can also help your balance.

It Keeps Your Brain Sharp

Once you master the basic skills of the game, you start to think about strategy. Where is your opponent positioned? Where does their typical serve land on the court? Analyzing the competition, your own placement and strategy, and the desire to keep improving your own game all keep those synapses firing and help keep your mind sharp.

You’ll Sleep Like a Baby

Playing pickleball is so much fun, you’ll hardly notice that you’re getting a real workout until later in the day. Aside from the physical exertion that’s been proven to have significant benefits for sleep, getting out there and playing helps lower stress levels and helps you relax when the day is done.

It Promotes Healthy Habits That Can Lead to Weight Loss

Playing pickleball burns eight to eleven calories a minute, so 60 minutes of play can burn 480-660 calories. You’d need to play four and a half hours a week to meet recommended exercise guidelines, but with the enticement of the social aspect, it gets some people moving who would otherwise not be doing any physical activity.

Get a Confidence Boost

Even for those who historically haven’t been athletic, pickleball is a great entry-level sport anyone can become good at. There’s much to be said for the confidence that physical activity, accomplishment, and pride (especially when you’re on the winning team!) can do for your confidence.

It’s Good for a Laugh

Pickleball is a very social sport, and most people who play would probably agree that this is one of the things they most love about this sport. Although you can play “singles” (a.k.a. one-on-one), games are often played as “doubles”, where you and a partner compete against another team of two. Inevitably, you’ll get a good laugh. Laughing isn’t just good for your mental and emotional health – it’s “good for the soul.”

Your Relationships Will Grow

There’s something about spending time together and competing on a pickleball court that fosters mutual respect among players in the game. It’s a great way to get to know someone in a setting that’s typically lighthearted (unless, of course, you’re competing in a tournament).

It’s Fun for All Ages

Another truly great thing pickleball has going for it is that it’s a sports activity that different generations can play together. In this world of generational divides, especially when it comes to technology-driven activities, pickleball is simple fun that brings people of all ages together.

As always, engaging in any sporting activity is not without risk. Talk to your doctor before starting and find out if playing pickleball is right for you. As part of John Knox Village’s impressive array of amenities, its Aquatic Complex is home to covered pickleball courts adjacent to two sparkling pools and a Poolside Pub.

Want to learn more about what John Knox Village has to offer? Contact us today to take a tour, or for a no-pressure conversation with one of our Life Plan Consultants.

JKV Once Again Receives Distinguished ‘Best in Wellness’ Awards

January 11, 2024/in Blog, News

John Knox Village of Florida in Pompano Beach is thrilled to announce that it has been honored with the 2023 ICAA NuStep Pinnacle and Beacon Awards, solidifying its position among the Top 5 and Top 25 ‘Best in Wellness’ senior living communities in North America. JKV has been recognized annually with these awards since 2019. Once again, the acknowledgments underscore John Knox Village’s commitment to fostering a wellness-centered culture that benefits all residents and staff within the community.

The ICAA NuStep Pinnacle Award and Beacon Award are a joint initiative between the International Council on Active Aging (ICAA), an organization at the forefront of leading, connecting, and defining the active-aging industry, and NuStep, LLC, a prominent manufacturer of recumbent cross-trainers widely used in healthcare, senior living, and fitness.

Colin Milner, CEO, and founder of the ICAA, emphasizes the evolving importance of wellness in senior living communities. Milner states, “Wellness has evolved from being a programming option to becoming a way of life. And these communities are setting the pace for the rest of the industry to follow.”

According to Jamisyn Becker, JKV’s Director of Marketing & Innovation, “At John Knox Village, we prioritize programming that embraces wellness as its key focus to nurture physical vitality and maintain a culture of connection. By prioritizing holistic well-being, we cultivate not just healthier bodies but also stronger bonds, fostering a community where every individual thrives.”

As the older adult population continues to grow and individuals seek a better, longer life, the significance of where one chooses to live becomes increasingly essential. John Knox Village inspires the industry, leading the way with its comprehensive wellness culture.

About NuStep, LLC

Visit: https://www.nustep.com/

NuStep, LLC designs, manufactures and distributes recumbent cross-trainer exercise equipment. NuStep products empower users of all functional abilities and fitness levels to engage in exercise that builds strength, enhances independence, and improves health outcomes. NuStep sponsored the Pinnacle and Beacon Awards recognizing senior communities and centers transforming lives through whole-person wellness programming.

About the International Council on Active Aging (ICAA)

Visit: https://www.icaa.cc/

ICAA leads, connects, and defines the active-aging industry, supporting professionals in developing wellness cultures for adults over 50. The association focuses on active aging, helping older adults live life as fully as possible within all dimensions of wellness.

For more information or questions, contact:

Colin Milner, CEO, ICAA

Toll-free: 1-866-335-9777 (North America); Telephone: 604-734-4466; cell: 604-763-4595

A Sign of the Times: JKV’s Iconic Clock Goes Digital

December 20, 2023/in Blog, General, News

The iconic red-neon John Knox Village name and clock that faced Interstate 95 from the west side of JKV’s 17-story Cassels Tower apartment building has been taken down after 35 years.

It has been replaced with a glitzy, new, high-tech LED (Light-Emitting Diode) projecting sign, with features including full-colored lighting and programmable customized messaging.

What began in 1988 as an advertising gimmick, which allowed commuters to know exactly how early, on time, or late they were for work or dinner, quickly became a beacon quite literally, as it could be seen from a mile away.

“We’re hoping to create a new landmark,” Bob Milanovich, JKV director of resident relations, told the Miami Herald in an article that ran 35 years ago. “You have 50 million people passing by every year.”

That was then. Now, according to the website AARoads.com, the traffic volume on I-95 in Broward County generally exceeds 200,000 vehicles daily, which translates into some 73 million vehicles annually.

The old clock was the size of a Mazda Miata, standing 10 feet wide, with a four-foot-long big hand and a three-foot-long little hand. The idea to put a clock on the side of Cassels Tower came from Village resident Arleen Ridenour, who also contributed a sizable amount to the $15,000 price tag.

“It really was quite a visionary marketing idea from Ms. Ridenour back in the day,” said Jamisyn Becker, JKV’s current Director of Marketing and Innovation. “And now, with this state-of-the-art digital clock and sign, we are able to utilize the newest technologies available for providing the time of day and purposeful information about JKV to millions of folks traveling the Interstate.”

The old clock’s red neon has been replaced with LED lighting, has been refurbished, and will be installed on the east side of Cassels Tower to be seen by residents, guests, and staff throughout the campus.

“The clock has served us well over the years, and we are delighted we were able to repurpose it for the other side of the Cassels Tower building for all to enjoy,” said Thom Price, JKV’s Vice President of Operations.

Festive Feast for the Holidays

December 14, 2023/in Blog

Please post pictures of your dishes on Facebook and tag us @johnknoxvillage. Let’s create a virtual feast and spread the joy of the holidays with our extended online community.

Holiday Cheese Gougères

This is a simple holiday appetizer, great to snack on just before dinner, and goes very well with a glass of Champagne.

Ingredients:

1/2 cup water
1/2 cup milk
4 ounces unsalted butter
pinch of salt
1 cup all-purpose flour
4 large eggs
1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese (and a little more to sprinkle on top)
ground black pepper
a pinch of nutmeg

Combine the water, milk, butter, and salt and boil.

Add the flour and stir with a spoon until a smooth dough forms. Stir over low heat until it dries out and pulls away from the side of the pan.

Scrape the dough into a bowl. Let cool for 3 minutes.

It is time now to incorporate the eggs (ONE BY ONE). This is very important. Add the first egg and mix it into the dough. At first, the mix may look gooey, but keep mixing until the dough forms again. Add the second egg and repeat the process until all the eggs have been incorporated.

Add the cheese, the pepper, and the nutmeg.

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.

Prepare a baking sheet with parchment paper on it.

Put the dough into a pastry bag with a ½ inch round tip and pipe tablespoon-size mounds onto the baking sheet, 2 inches apart. Sprinkle the cheese and bake for 20 minutes or until golden brown…Enjoy!

Mashed Potato Casserole

Sharalyn has lived at JKV since 2015. “Harry bought in for me as a wedding gift when we married in March of 2015. I was still working & lived downtown Fort Lauderdale. We went between my townhouse and JKV. I sold my townhouse of 23 years in November 2023 and became a full-time resident at JKV on November 13th with too many boxes, plastic tubs, furniture, clothes, and my cat. I love it!!”

Ingredients:

8 Russet, Idaho or Yukon Gold potatoes
1 cup sour cream
1 8 oz. package of cream cheese (softened)
2 Tablespoons of fresh chives
garlic salt to taste
white pepper to taste
3 Tablespoons melted butter

Wash and peel the potatoes. Cut into quarters and boil in water until soft. Drain the potatoes. Add the potatoes to a mixing bowl. Mash the potatoes using a mixer while slowly adding the cream cheese and sour cream. Season to taste with the garlic, salt and pepper.

Oil a medium rectangular casserole. Spread the potato mixture evenly. Drizzle with the melted butter and a sprinkle of paprika.

Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes.

It may be made up to 3 days in advance and refrigerated.

It freezes well too, if you have any leftovers. Doubtful you will!

Enjoy!

Hot Cocoa Cupcakes

Yael has worked at JKV for over five years in various roles, from orchestrating activities to managing Google Ads. However, her true standout skills lie in the kitchen, where she’s renowned as the go-to expert baker!

Ingredients:

2 cups sugar
1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
¾ cup unsweetened baking cocoa
2 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
2 large eggs
1 cup strong black coffee or 2 tsp espresso powder or instant coffee granules dissolved in 1 cup boiling water, slightly cooled
1 cup buttermilk or sour milk (1 Tablespoon white vinegar plus enough milk to equal 1 cup)
½ cup vegetable or canola oil
1 teaspoon vanilla

Heat oven to 350 degrees. Line two standard-sized muffin pans with red or holiday-festive paper cupcake liners.

Blend sugar, flour, cocoa, baking soda, baking powder, and salt in a large mixing bowl or stand mixer on low speed.

Add eggs, coffee, buttermilk, oil and vanilla. Beat on medium speed for 2 minutes. The batter will be thin.

Fill lined muffin cups ⅔ to ¾ of the way full. Leave room for rising. Bake 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool for 10-15 minutes. Remove from muffin pans and cool on a wire rack.

While the cupcakes are cooling, clean out the mixer bowl and prepare the frosting:

Vanilla Frosting

½ cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered confectioner’s sugar
1 tsp vanilla
Pinch of salt
2 – 4 Tbsp milk

Combine butter, salt, and vanilla with an electric mixer in the mixer or a large bowl. Mix on medium speed until the butter mixture is fluffy, about 2-3 minutes. Turning the mixer off between each addition, add about a half cup of powdered sugar at a time, starting on low speed and increasing to medium speed once all the sugar has been incorporated.

Add milk, one tablespoon at a time, while the mixer runs until the frosting is smooth and spreadable.

For decorating your Hot Cocoa Cupcakes, you will also need:

Mini marshmallows (approximately 75)

Mini semi-sweet chocolate chips, approximately ⅓ cup

24 small mini candy canes, plus 10-12, crushed

Once the cupcakes are completely cooled, frost each cupcake and turn it into a “mug” by hooking one small candy cane into the top along one of the edges. Place three mini marshmallows into the frosting, and sprinkle mini chocolate chips and crushed candy cane pieces over the top.

Makes 24-26 cupcakes.

Pro tip:

Feel free to frost the cupcakes using a butter knife, but for a true “whipped cream” look, use a pastry bag and a large star tip and squeeze frosting from the outer edges inward towards the center.

Top 6 Holiday Scams & How Seniors Can Protect Themselves

November 28, 2023/in Blog

With the busy holiday season already upon us, it’s usually a joyous time to celebrate the festivities with friends and family, full of goodwill, giving, and cheer. Sadly, it’s also prime time for crooks and scammers to target consumers, and senior citizens often unwittingly open the door to being scammed.

According to the AARP, in 2022, three-quarters of consumers experienced or were targeted by at least one form of fraud. In 2021, Americans lost over $6.9 billion to fraudsters, including those that can be tied to the holidays, with requests from fake charities, holiday shopping, booking holiday travel, fraudulent communications about shipping problems, and more. Furthermore, scammers take advantage of the holiday season to zero in on seniors.

Here are the Top 6 most common holiday scams and more importantly, helpful solutions to protect yourself and your loved ones:

1. Fake Charities

Scammers take advantage of people’s generosity during the holiday season and create fake charities, GoFundMe campaigns and other charitable activities.

Warning Signs: Be cautious of hard-sell tactics or vague language. Charities should never threaten, and donors should always be able to see exactly where the money goes.

Solutions: Do your research before giving through Always check the URL and charity name before donating. The same applies to GoFundMe campaigns. Be sure to check your sources!

2. Gift Card Scams & Empty Gift Cards

Scammers love gift cards because they are almost impossible to trace. Many holiday scams involve buying and selling fraudulent gift cards. Scammers will often impersonate a bank or government agency and will try to trick consumers into giving up the numbers on the back of the card.

Warning Signs: Make sure gift cards have not been tampered with. Check the back and see if the PIN has been exposed. Always get a receipt. Whenever possible, purchase the gift card physically at the store. Apart from a Visa or Mastercard gift card, the purchase of a gift card should never ask you to pay for an “activation fee.”

Solutions: Use the gift card only at the store or website it was purchased from. If anyone charges “fees” or implies they “protect your money,” it is likely a scam.

3. Grandparent Scams – Fraudsters “Phishing” as Family Members

Scammers text, email and make phone calls posing as a grandchild in trouble and ask for money, usually through wire transfers or gift cards. According to the FBI, elder fraud costs victims $3-4 billion in losses each year.

Warning Signs: The posing family member asks this transaction to be a secret. The message sounds strange. When in doubt, trust your gut and call the family member directly.

Solutions: Educate yourself on common scams and how to spot them. Use a known phone number to contact the family member or friend claiming to be in trouble. Do not send money or share your credit or debit card details with anyone you do not know or trust. Be cautious and avoid acting immediately, regardless of the situation.

4. Fraudulent Emails or Texts from Trusted Companies

Phishing/fraudulent emails pose as companies or government agencies the public trusts. During the holiday season, scammers send phishing messages claiming to be from companies like Amazon or Apple that offer exclusive discounts or, worse, claim that your account has been hacked. Scammers will send messages offering “free gifts” in return for sensitive information.

Warning Signs: Be skeptical about unsolicited messages regarding special offers or prizes. Any unrequested email or text message should be treated with caution. Also, be wary if the message includes a link. Phishing scams try to direct users to a fake website or infect your device with malware. Other signs of phishing include strange spelling, grammatical errors, and formatting issues.

Solutions: Ignore messages and texts from people you do not know. If in doubt, contact the company directly and ask if the message is legitimate.

5. Missed Delivery Notification Scam Texts

It’s common to be waiting on packages and deliveries during the holiday season. One recent scam involves fraudsters sending fake delivery notification text messages, in hopes that the user will click on the link. These scam texts lead to a fake website designed to either steal personal information, ask for a credit card number, or ask to send money directly to the scammer. According to Reddit, fraudsters create fake websites that look like the UPS site to steal information.

Warning Signs: FedEx, UPS, and other delivery companies will not ask for a credit card or social security number to “find” the delivery. Take note if a link in the text takes the user to a site that is not on the official UPS, USPS, or FedEx domains — for example, an “IPS” fake logo that looks just like the “UPS” logo. If in doubt, go directly to UPS.com, FedEx.com and USPS.com websites. All other variations of these domains are likely to be scams.

Solutions: Track deliveries through the official shipper website using the tracking number provided only. Make sure to visit that website directly; do not use the link provided in a text or email.

6. Holiday Travel and Online Airfare Scams

With holiday travel back in full swing, many people are looking for cheap airline tickets for the holiday season. Scammers target travelers with schemes ranging from bogus flight-booking websites to fraudulent flight cancellation emails and sudden price increases.

Warning Signs: A website or online marketplace is offering airline tickets to popular destinations at deep discounts. Scammers tout huge deals while trying to get users to suspend suspicions. Or a scammer may contact the user directly to ask to pay extra for a flight or are told the flight has been canceled and more money is needed to rebook it.

Solutions: Always purchase airline tickets directly from the airline or through a reputable third-party seller that has customer service like Expedia.com, Travelocity.com, Kayak.com or Priceline.com. If you receive any messages about your trip, contact the airline directly to make sure the message is legitimate.

As always, it’s safe to work with a reputable travel agent to ensure travel availability and pricing from an expert in their field.

Lastly, as a general precaution for added protection against fraud, consider an identity theft protection service. See Consumer Voice.org for some suggestions.

As we revel in the joyous holiday season, it’s essential for seniors to remain vigilant against potential scams. Protecting yourself from scams is a crucial aspect of making the most of the season with friends and family. Even with the multitude of holiday festivities we hope you will enjoy at John Knox Village, or wherever you celebrate, stay alert and secure, to ensure a happy and scam-free holiday for all.

From the popular Halloween Happy Hour and Pet Costume Contest to the all-day Thanksgiving Feast, from Christmas and Hanukkah celebrations to the annual New Year’s Eve bash, residents never run out of options to enjoy a joyous holiday season at John Knox Village.

Keeping our residents on top of their “tech” game through classes and one-on-one assistance, JKV Technology Coordinator Jason Cook helps residents improve their tech-savviness, troubleshoot any technology questions, and make the most of mobile and technology-based devices. Having our own in-house Technology expert is just one of the many “extras “John Knox Village offers that sets it apart.

If you want to learn more about what JKV has to offer, contact us for a no-pressure conversation or a tour.

Seniors: How Making Connections Improves Your Social Life, and Your Health

September 21, 2023/in Blog

We’ve often heard about the benefits of having an active social life, especially as we age. A recent study cited in the American Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry indicates there may be more truth to that than previously understood. According to the study, older adults who experience more positive social interactions each day report feeling a higher sense of purposefulness. It states, “by enhancing sense of purpose, older adults will be more likely to experience the valuable cognitive and physical healthy aging benefits that come with it.”

This result appears to be true for both working and retired adults, though researchers note that the findings are especially important post-retirement.

For the study, researchers from Washington University in St. Louis surveyed 100 adults in Switzerland with an average age of 71. The study asked participants to rank their daily social interactions and share how much purpose they felt their lives had that day, their relationship status and employment.

It’s no surprise that researchers found that an individual’s sense of purpose was strongly impacted by social interaction. Other studies reveal that those with a higher sense of purpose lead longer, happier lives, have lower rates of Alzheimer’s disease and other cardiovascular problems.

On the flip side, the University of California, San Francisco found that more than 40% of older adults regularly experience loneliness, which is often a major predictor of future health problems and even a shortened life span.

Simple things play a big part in how seniors feel about themselves and experience fulfillment including friendly socialization with others, learning the basics of social media, having daily routines, enjoying cultural experiences, having access to safe transportation and more.

When older adults surround themselves with people who lift them up, it infuses their lives with positivity. Regular interactions with others have an impact on our well-being as we get older. In the same vein, if seniors feel isolated or are around others who are negative, that can have a profound effect on health and quality of life as well.

Emotional connections and close relationships are critical to a person’s good health at every age. One of the many benefits of living in an active senior community is the built-in social life. The best senior living communities will usually offer a full calendar of social and intellectual events for its residents.

With over 250 classes, gatherings and events each month, John Knox Village of Florida provides its residents with an abundance of opportunities to live fully enriched lives. JKV residents enjoy social, emotional and physical benefits of being part of a community and making deep connections.

To learn more about what it’s like to live at JVK, contact us for a no-pressure conversation or to schedule a tour.

When Should I Downsize? Why Now Might Be the Right Time

August 10, 2023/in Blog

As seniors step into retirement, they’re often at a crossroads about where they’d like to live as their needs change. Given the emotional attachment many people have to their homes, it’s understandable why anyone would be reluctant to consider a move without an imminent reason to do so. But the reality is a larger home can become a burden at a time when one might want to look towards simplifying life.

There are many compelling benefits to downsizing that may give you good reason to consider moving sooner than later. Let’s take a look at a few ways that deciding to move now might be the right move for you.

You bought low. Now sell high.

The real estate market has seen an unprecedented boom in home values over the past few years. Now might be a great time to sell. With homeowners reaping higher sales than ever, you could walk away with a nice sum of money. It’s also worth noting that the sale of your primary residence may be exempt from capital gains taxes up to a certain threshold. *

Hand off some of your monthly expenses.

Even if you’ve paid off your mortgage, there are still considerable costs to owning a home, such as insurance, lawn care, utilities, interior and exterior maintenance, and property taxes. You could save a substantial amount by moving into a smaller residence at a Life Plan Community where those costs are covered for you, with no financial surprises when unexpected repairs are needed.

Keep more money in your pocket, where it belongs.

The increase in monthly cash flow from having lower monthly expenses potentially means needing to take less from your retirement accounts and might even affect your decision about when you’d need to start collecting Social Security benefits. Delaying taking Social Security benefits could result in a higher monthly Social Security benefit, when you do decide to begin collecting. *

Isn’t it time to simplify your life? You’ve earned this.

Letting go of the clutter that often comes with living in a large home can give a boost to your well-being and clarity of thought. Most people feel an emotional relief that comes from getting rid of things that are no longer needed. Moving to a smaller space can reduce your stress and improve your quality of life, so you can spend time and energy on more enjoyable and fulfilling activities.

Become a social butterfly.

With less space to maintain, seniors can shift their focus from home maintenance matters to experiences and relationships. Senior living communities can offer a full calendar of social and life enriching events, with many opportunities to be social and enjoy life.

The decision to downsize in retirement can bring a multitude of benefits. From living maintenance-free, financial savings and becoming part of a community, seniors can experience a richer life and greater overall well-being. As people continue to explore senior living options, downsizing to a one-bedroom apartment stands out as an appealing, sensible choice for those seeking a fulfilling, comfortable lifestyle in their active retirement years.

John Knox Village of Florida has a multitude of housing options available for seniors, aged 62 and better, including bright, sunny one-bedroom apartments. With so many floor plans to choose from, we’d love to tell you more. Learn about what it means to live in a Life Plan Community, how it can give you financial security and simplify your life. Contact us today for a no-pressure conversation, or to schedule a tour.

*Consult with your tax and financial advisors for guidance on Social Security benefits, and for the most up-to-date tax exemptions.

7 Great Reasons for Older Adults to Own a Pet

May 3, 2023/in Blog

American humorist Josh Billings once said, “A dog is the only thing on earth that loves you more than he loves himself.” Given that as we get older, we may be looking for ways to lighten our responsibilities, some people may wonder – are pets good for seniors? If you’re currently a pet owner or considering getting one, here are some of the very real benefits of having a pet in your retirement years.

You Walk the Dog and the Dog Walks You

Research shows that dog owners walk approximately one hour longer each day than those without a four-legged friend. The regular activity that often comes along with taking your furry friend out for a walk can help decrease your blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and triglyceride levels. Walking your dog on a regular basis has even been linked to improving your cognitive function and lowering your risk of having a heart attack.

Pets Can Improve Your Mental Health

If you find yourself living alone, having a pet can be extraordinarily beneficial for your mental health. Dogs and cats can stave off loneliness, reduce our stress, and help combat depression and anxiety. Having a pet has even been associated with lessening the effects of PTSD. It’s been increasingly recognized that dogs and cats have healing power by reducing stress hormones. A dog that sits by our side, or a purring cat that curls up on our lap when we convalesce can be so therapeutic when we’re recovering from illness or a setback.

They Boost Our Paw-sitivity

One of the most rewarding aspects of having a pet is all they do for our emotional wellbeing. Pets love us so fully and unconditionally that the bond created between pets and their owners is unlike any other. They hold us in the highest esteem and see us as the best version of ourselves. Who wouldn’t love that? Pets are great listeners. They think we’re “the cat’s meow” for being nothing more than our genuine selves. Spending time with your pet and experiencing the love that goes both ways can promote the release of endorphins, brain chemicals that help us de-stress.

Dogs Improve Our Social Life

Pets help us form connections with other people. Pet owners are 60% more likely to get to know people in their neighborhood. Walking your dog brings a natural interaction with other people and is an automatic icebreaker. It’s human nature for us to stop to chat, scratch a fuzzy head, smile, and acknowledge a pet and its owner when they pass on the street. Even for cat owners or dog owners who don’t take their dogs out themselves, our pets become a natural subject of interest to talk about with family, friends, and caregivers. Animals just create that space for conversation.

Pets Keep Us Mindful

Taking care of a pet creates a routine for us and adds structure to our day. The responsibility of caring for another living creature creates mindfulness and can help strengthen our cognitive functioning. Pets also have a way of keeping us in the moment, as we focus our love and attention on our fuzzy friend.

Dogs And Cats Can Help Keep Us Safe

Having a dog is like having an extra set of eyes and ears. Dogs will let you know when someone comes to the door and can be a measure of protection to shield us from possible danger. At the very least, the heightened senses of dogs and cats can serve as a kind of alarm, and alert you to things that might warrant your attention.

Pets Give Us a Sense of Purpose

Knowing how much our fur babies depend on us can remind us that we make a difference in the life of another. Having someone who needs us gives us a sense of purpose. There is great benefit to having that type of responsibility, and knowing we are providing a good life for our animals as important members of our family.

Spend Time with Animals, Even if You Don’t Have Your Own

Some people understandably are not in a position to own a pet. But you can still reap some of the benefits by interacting with animals when you have the opportunity. Spending time with other people’s pets still enables you to benefit from the human-pet connection, and the endorphins that make us feel joyful and calm.

Pets can boost your quality of life. They bring humor and laughter to our days, offer comfort, and companionship. They can make the difference between a life “endured,” and a life well-lived. Not sure what kind of pet to have? Older dogs make wonderful pets, and cats are especially good pets for people who may have arthritis, or any physical challenges.

At John Knox Village, we are a pet-friendly senior living community where pets are not only allowed but treasured. Our 70-acre campus includes the Wellness Park, a dedicated dog park enjoyed by all JKV residents, whether or not they have a dog of their own. We offer lots of “pet-centric” activities and events throughout the year for all our residents to enjoy, including visits from Canine Companions’ pet therapy dogs, pet parades, photo shoots, pet costume contests and more. It’s just one of the things that makes John Knox Village so special.

We’d love to tell you more. Call us at (754) 231-1411 to schedule a tour.

Why a Life Plan Retirement Community is a Wise Investment

April 14, 2023/in Blog

The decision to move to a Life Plan Retirement Community (also known as Continuing Care Retirement Community, or CCRC) is a wise investment in many ways, especially when older adults consider where they would like to age well with purpose, and what a perfect life looks like in retirement. Many Life Plan Communities (LPCs) offer rich social and cultural experiences, excellent health care, security, and peace of mind. Financial professionals and estate planners are increasingly advising clients to consider a move to an LPC as it is a responsible option that provides a rewarding lifestyle and ensures long-term health care if the need arises. Residents who choose to live in LPCs are relieved of the stress of becoming a burden to their family, friends and the state as they age.

According to AARP, “The chief benefit of LPCs/CCRCs is that they provide a wide range of care, services and activities in one place, offering residents a sense of stability and familiarity as their abilities or health conditions change. A resident can start out living independently…and later transition to assisted living to get more help with daily activities, or to skilled nursing to receive more medical care, while remaining in the same community.”

Moving to a Life Plan Community Makes Financial Sense

Older adults face a variety of choices when planning for their future lifestyle and health care needs. The rising cost of medical care in the U.S., especially long-term care, has made understanding options very important.

Investing in the future at a Life Plan Community like John Knox Village of Florida (JKV) in Pompano Beach is a proactive move. It comes with the added value of providing health care that may be needed and affords a tangible sense of security for aging in place. An LPC like JKV requires that a resident be in good health when moving in, who can then enjoy independent living in a beautiful home with an active lifestyle for as long as possible.

Scott Montgomery, Financial Advisor to high-net-worth families at Provenance Wealth Advisors in Fort Lauderdale, Florida says he has often seen clients procrastinate on making a plan by thinking, “I still have time.” But as he notes, “Things can change quickly.” Says Scott, “This is another strategy – a way to ensure that if you run through your money, you’re not going to have to rely on your children.”

Montgomery feels it is a moral responsibility for professional advisors to talk to their clients about long-term care. He says, “If your financial advisor is not counseling you about long-term care, then reach out to someone who is.”

Life Plan Community Options

NaCCRA (National Continuing Care Residents Association) publishes a Consumer’s Guide as a reference on what to consider when choosing such a move. According to NaCCRA, “It is important, when contemplating a CCRC/LPC, and especially when comparing one to another based on price, to be sure to understand the different types of contracts which are offered.”

There are variations in contracts, however. The two main contracts to consider for moving to an LPC are “Type A” and “Type C”.

A Type A contract is often referred to as a full-care, inclusive contract. At JKV, this contract covers:

The entrance fee
The monthly service fee based on the size of the home selected
Unlimited future health care needs with admission to Assisted Living or Skilled Nursing
All located on JKVs botanical, lush 70-acre campus

The Type C contract is usually referred to as a “fee-for” service contract. At JKV, the Type C contract provides:

The same services as the Type A without the health care benefit:
- With Type C, the resident pays for Assisted Living or Skilled Nursing care services as needed, out of pocket
- JKV Residents are charged the prevailing rate for these services with a 10% discount

John Knox Village of Florida, Inc. is a not-for-profit, internationally award-winning Life Plan Retirement Community of choice for those seeking an upscale, enriched lifestyle, world-class programming, stress-free living, and if needed, unlimited use of health care services on campus, with 24/7 wellness nurses. JKV allows seniors to plan for their future needs while enjoying resort-style amenities, life-long learning programs and a full range of services that promote wellness of mind, body and spirit. Through unwavering commitment to excellence and guiding principles, the team brings the unique JKV experience to life every day for 1,000 residents.

Call to schedule lunch and a one-on-one visit with a Life Plan Consultant at 954-820-6199

You Walk the Dog and the Dog Walks You

Pets Can Improve Your Mental Health

They Boost Our Paw-sitivity

Dogs Improve Our Social Life

Pets Keep Us Mindful

Dogs And Cats Can Help Keep Us Safe

Pets Give Us a Sense of Purpose

Spend Time with Animals, Even if You Don’t Have Your Own

Moving to a Life Plan Community Makes Financial Sense

Life Plan Community Options