If you have ever played the age-old game of “Telephone?”, you know how easy it is for something to get twisted through multiple translations.  We will discuss the importance of deciding  “What you Want”, and ”how” and “where” you will choose to record your decisions.  First, you need to learn your options, then the tools that are available to document your choices,  and lastly, how to choose the right person to carry out your wishes in the event that you can no longer speak for yourself.     

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Speakers:

• Nancy L. Hillary – Hillary Law Offices, PLC

• Katlin Mills – Brio Living Services

• Joel Ruiter – Home Repair Services of Kent County

You may have wondered why some communities charge a significant buy in, and some do not.  What is the difference between a community that is considered a “Continuing Care Retirement Community” aka “CCRC”,  and similar communities that offer a wide array of services?   We will hear from the communities themselves about their living options, care levels,  amenities, costs, and more.  Finally, we will talk about the questions to ask to decide if this option is right for you.     

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Speakers:

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• Sandi Wake – CarePatrol

• Amy VanderPloeg – Brio Living Services/Porter Hills

• Jason Allaire - Freedom Village Holland

Most of us spend our lives acquiring things.   Some of these items may have been achieved through great sacrifice or financial investment.  Other items link us to memories, times, or people who are no longer with us.  The problem lies when the things we own start to hinder us from living life to the fullest, and even pose a safety hazard.  This talk will focus on the psychology behind hoarding, the many ramifications of holding on to too many items, and the freedom that can be found for those willing to let go. Whether you have a little clutter, or an overwhelming mess, we will point you to resources that can help. 

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Speakers:

• Susie Marsh, LBSW – Susie’s Organization Solutions LLC

• Nancy Ayers, LMSW – Senior Neighbors

Life happens and many people find themselves suddenly single at a stage of life they had planned on sharing with their spouse or other special person.    Whether you become single through an untimely death, or even a planned divorce, your life changes drastically.  Learn practical ways to adjust to living life as the new you. We will discuss maintaining a home, making a financial plan, building a supportive social network, and finding joy on your own.  

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Speakers:

• Christy Buck - Mental Health Foundation of West Michigan

• Christine Freidt - WeTravel

• Alistaire Lynch, Lynch Agency

“Hope is not a Strategy”. While this is a very true statement, many tend toward denial when faced with planning for their future care.  Every family has unique needs and resources, and even those change over time.   Learn the realities of various private pay options as well as those offered through Medicaid so you can proactively plan while you are still healthy and independent.  

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• Bob Callery – Michigan Medicare/Medicaid Assistance Program

• Curtis Cottle – Security Benefits Center

• Charles Holley – TheKey

• Shari Hooper – Summit Wealth Partners

While nothing can be considered fun about Estate Planning, it is one of the single most critical things every adult should do regardless of wealth.   Learn the differences between the most common legal planning tools. More importantly, how those tools give authority for others to carry out decisions on your behalf during your lifetime and after your death.   

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Speakers:

• Jordan Bush – Hedge Life Law

• Chad Groggel – The CPA Group PC

Getting old is not for faint of heart.  As more adults live well into their 80’s, 90’s and beyond, it is critical to find things that inspire you to get up each day.   We will be discussing faith, travel, relationships, volunteering, and the many ways people have found to reinvent their lives and find joy and 

purpose on a daily basis.  

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Speakers:

• Kevin Baker – Ada Bible Church 

• Dr. John Mulder, MD, FAAHPM, HMDC – Trillium Institute

• Eric Sattler – EJS Travel LLC

What does READY look like?    Many of life’s most important decisions are ones that we may never feel fully ready to make.  We will be exploring the reasons why we procrastinate, steps that can be taken to move on to a more proactive mindset, and the life decisions that should NEVER be put on the back burner.  

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Speakers:

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• Jason R. Beckrow, DO, FAAHPM, FACOI – Trillium Institute in Grand Rapids

• Diane Schroeder, MA, LPC - licensed professional counselor

Adults 55 and older now have a myriad of choices for independent living.  We will discuss the various types of independent living here in West Michigan, and the questions to ask before determining the option that will best fit your budget and lifestyle.  

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Speakers:

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• Tom Carabellese - Assisted Living Locators

• Joanne (Jo) Elenbaas – Covenant Living of the Great Lakes

• Natalie Schultz –  Samaritas Senior Living of Grand Rapids

The number of centenarians in the US has nearly doubled in the last 20 years, changing the demographics of our population as we know it. Are you prepared? Learn about the factors that have the greatest effect on longevity, and how to prepare for a happier, healthier, longer life.

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Speakers:

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• Teresa Schissler-Boichot – Boichot Insurance Agency LLC

• Jennifer Feuerstein – AARP

• Jenna Smith – Vitality at Home