WEBINARS: 2022 AGING ADULT SEMINAR SERIES

RSV Risks in Older Adults: Management and Prevention

About the Topic:

Join  Geriatrician Dr. Mark Carlson for the latest information on RSV risks in older adults and management and treatment options. There will be time allotted for Q&A. 

Speaker Information:

Dr. Mark Carlson, Be Well MD

Dr. Carlson is a fellowship-trained, board- certified geriatrician, internist and oncologist with 25 years of healthcare experience. He received his medical doctorate from Loma Linda University in California and completed his geriatric medicine fellowship at the University of Hawaii in Honolulu. Prior to his move into geriatrics, Dr. Carlson spent nearly 20 years of practice in medical oncology, where serious illness had to be managed with the latest in medical technology, compassion and a trusting patient-doctor relationship. Dr. Carlson combined this experience with his strong desire to help seniors in the aging process to create Be Well MD. Be Well MD is a medical practice designed specifically for aging adults, providing the highest quality medical care to individuals living in private residences and in senior living communities. Be Well MD also provides transitional care for seniors discharged from hospital and rehab back to home. Dr. Carlson’s personal mission is to help seniors live healthier and happier lives.

Love and Marriage is Not Just for Youngsters   

 About the Topic:    

Curious about how to navigate dating, marriage and everything that comes with it as an older adult? Join us for an informative conversation on love, marriage and dating later in life.    

Speaker Information:    

Amy Temperley, Aging is Cool    

For over 30 years, Amy Temperley has committed her work to improving the lives of older adults in some form or fashion. From her time as a social worker in nursing homes and home health care, to Executive roles in older adult focused nonprofit agencies, and as  a consultant and business owner Amy has served caregivers, individuals with dementia and disabilities, and nonprofit leaders. She is passionate about issues related to living a full life, active aging and ageism.    

Amy has a Master’s Degree in Human Services from St. Edward’s University and has been called upon time and again to develop relationships and create change in communities and organizations. She is an innovative thinker with a commitment to authentic leadership,  problem solving and working within systems to implement change.     

Amy and her husband, Damien, founded Aging is Cool in 2016 with the dream to create smart, engaging, fun activities for older adults and to address ageism in the world around them. In  2020, Aging is Cool partnered with Heart and Soul Care to create and launch, A Mighty Good Time, a website and one-stop-shop for engaging activities for older adults nationwide.

Thriving in Retirement: Senior Living Options  

  About the Topic:    

More and more retirees of all ages are relocating to active adult and senior living communities all around the country. You may be considering such a move yourself, but just aren’t sure what the fuss is all about!    During this 90-minute panel discussion, you will learn the facts about local 55+ living options from some of the most knowledgeable and experienced professionals in the industry. We will cover locations, amenities, and costs for both purchase and lease options for those 55 and older.    

Speaker Information:    

David Melgar, Belmont Village Lakeway    

David Melgar serves the local Lakeway community as Belmont Village Senior Living’s Director of Community Relations. His expertise in the field takes him back to a decade of extensive leadership experience in senior housing and aging services management. He received his Bachelors of Science in Sociology from Vanguard University of Southern California. During his education at Vanguard he was able to personalize his degree within the field of Gerontology with a focus in senior housing and Alzheimer’s disease. David has a passion for helping others and helps countless people and families each and every day. When David isn’t at work being a resource for families choosing senior living options you can find David writing and composing music or cooking his family’s recipes.    

Debi Douglass, Oasis Senior Advisors    

I work with John Brown at Oasis Senior Advisors and have several years of experience in senior housing, hospice and memory care/dementia. I have also done volunteer work with veterans for the past few years as well.     

John Mathis, The Auberge at Bee Cave    

I am currently the Marketing Director for the Auberge Bee Cave Memory Care.  I have worked in the Senior living industry for 15 years.  Most of the time was spent working for not-for-profit Continuing Care Retirement communities.  I have worked for Brookdale, Eden Hill, Blue Skies and now The Auberge Memory Care.   I have also volunteered for the Alzheimer’s Association for 8 years.  I have served on the New Braunfels Walk to End Alzheimer’s committee and have chaired the Walk in New Braunfels twice.  I currently Serve as the Alzheimer’s Impact Movement AIM Ambassador for Texas congressional district 21.  Our mission at AIM is to advocate to congress asking members to support Alzheimer’s Legislation and federal funding for research.   I have lived in New Braunfels for 32 years. I am married and have three daughters.  I graduated from Texas A & M University and served in the Texas National Guard.

Dr. Blake Harrison - Carotid Stenosis    

About the Topic:     

Dr. Harrison will provide an explanation of carotid stenosis, a common disease among the aging. People with carotid stenosis are at a higher risk for strokes. Additionally, Dr. Harrison will share the symptoms and the best treatments.    

Speaker Information:    

Dr. Blake Harrison,      

 Vascular, Colorectal & General Surgery at Baylor Scott & White Health    

 Dr. Harrison was born in Baytown, TX. He graduated from Texas A&M with honors. He has the distinction of being board certified in three disciplines: General Surgery, Colorectal Surgery and Vascular Surgery.       Dr. Harrison is a proponent for education. In addition to being a surgeon, he has also been an instructor for the Baylor College of Medicine Physician Assistant Program. His membership in several professional associations keeps him on top of the latest technology in all three fields.       Dr. Harrison married his high school sweetheart, Denise and they have four grown children. He and his wife moved to Austin from Tyler, TX to be closer to their children. They look forward to getting involved with their community and giving back.

Your Forever Home: Building, Buying & Remodeling Options    

About the Topic:    

Retirees often elect to build, buy, or remodel shortly after retirement expecting this house to be “the last home” they will ever own. Fast forward 5, 10, or even 15 years and what was meant to be the “last house” is no longer equipped for current needs.    In this month’s seminar, we will share key considerations when building, buying, or remodeling to stay put into old age. Learn more about affordable accessibility and universal design features, remodel ideas, resale considerations, and cost saving strategies.    

Speaker Information:

Cyndi Cummings of The Cummings Home Team and Turnkey Transitions®    

Cyndi Cummings of The Cummings Home Team and Turnkey Transitions® specializes in helping older adults (those 55+), senior citizens, and their caregiver families navigate the unique challenges that face boomers and seniors when they contemplate a late-in-life move. The financial, emotional, and logistical issues faced by older adults are unique and demand a specially-trained real estate agent who understands the complexities of such a move.       

Cyndi has undergone a rigorous course of training and continuing education to achieve the exclusive designation of Certified Senior Housing Professional (CSHP) and Certified Senior Downsizing Coach, from The Seniors Real Estate Institute and Senior Real Estate Specialist® (SRES) from the National Association of Realtors. Her passion for serving this unique demographic has lead Cyndi to serve as a master trainer, conducting classes for other real estate agents interested in earning these designations.       

Additionally, Cyndi is a community leader, having brought together businesses and non-profits to form the Austin Senior Resource Alliance, LT Senior Services, and Turnkey Transitions®, which all serve the needs of older adults in the area. In addition, Cyndi is the current Board President for AustinUP and sits on the Board of Directors for Chariot (formerly Drive A Senior).       

Cyndi brings all of this expertise together to provide specialized, compassionate service to her real estate clients.     

Linda Burton    

Linda Burton is a retired executive with more than 40 years experience in Broadcasting, Business Development, Marketing and Healthcare. She has a bachelor’s in Journalism and MBA in Healthcare Administration. Ms Burton has managed to be particularly effective by bringing together the operations of for-profit and not-for-profit organizations to achieve shared objectives. She is currently the Chair of the City of Buda Task Force on Aging and is one of the founders of the Buda Police Foundation. She is part of the SALSA team in a Returnship program for the San Antonio Area Foundation. A returnship is an internship for older adults who are seeking to reenter the workforce in a different line of work or to learn something new. Her interests are Ageism, Reframing Aging and Aging in Place.

Senior Employment Opportunities   

 About the Topic:        

A workshop on overcoming age-related barriers was the most popular session that Nancy Bishop Lobrovich facilitated for many years at Workforce Solutions in Round Rock. She brings highlights from this presentation on So What If You’re 50 or older while discussing 10 tips that help seasoned workers find meaningful work.    

Nowadays many people work well past retirement age, and fortunately more employers understand the benefits of hiring older workers because of their work ethic, in-depth experience, and abundant productivity. Gain a better understanding on how you can effectively manage your job search and focus on what you can contribute at your next job.

Speaker Information: 

Nancy Bishop Lobrovich, ACC, Trainer, Skills for Today's Jobs    

Early in her career, Nancy Bishop rode the emotional roller coaster of company layoffs and closings while working for newspapers and magazines. Then after coauthoring three editions of How to Get a Job in Dallas/Fort Worth and Before You Say, “I Quit!,” she was drawn to the career development field.    

She took a leap of faith when she moved to Austin and completed a master’s degree at the University of Texas to prepare for the most rewarding phase of her work life. For more than two decades she has provided career coaching for thousands of people, many of whom were laid off and frustrated.    

Nancy has worked with people in a variety of settings and currently is a Trainer and Career Coach for Austin Community College’s Strategies for Today’s Jobs program. She will enthusiastically tell you more about ACC’s free continuing education course that prepares people for landing satisfying work.

Clinical Trials and Older Adults: Why It's Important

About the Topic:

Join Dr. Carlson, local geriatrician in a discussion about advancing care for older adults. With his focus on senior health, Dr. Carlson recognizes that advanced treatments are desperately needed for dementia and other senior-related conditions. Little is being done in the area of clinical research for elders today and yet the opportunity is vast. This is Dr. Carlson’s driving force for creating Be Well Clinical Studies. 

Be Well Clinical Studies infuses clinical research into the discipline of geriatrics with the goal of providing more progressive treatments for older adults into the future. Dr. Carlson is also founder and medical director of Be Well MD, a local concierge medical practice specifically for seniors.

In this webinar, Dr. Carlson will share clinical progress in senior health and the latest research on the horizon.

Speaker Information:

Dr. Mark Carlson, Be Well MD

Dr. Carlson is a fellowship-trained, board- certified geriatrician, internist and oncologist with 25 years of healthcare experience. He received his medical doctorate from Loma Linda University in California and completed his geriatric medicine fellowship at the University of Hawaii in Honolulu. Prior to his move into geriatrics, Dr. Carlson spent nearly 20 years of practice in medical oncology, where serious illness had to be managed with the latest in medical technology, compassion and a trusting patient-doctor relationship. Dr. Carlson combined this experience with his strong desire to help seniors in the aging process to create Be Well MD. Be Well MD is a medical practice designed specifically for aging adults, providing the highest quality medical care to individuals living in private residences and in senior living communities. Be Well MD also provides transitional care for seniors discharged from hospital and rehab back to home. Dr. Carlson’s personal mission is to help seniors live healthier and happier lives.

Tracy Christianson 

Tracy Christianson is a biochemist with extensive experience in medical research.The first 25 years of her career focused exclusively on oncology.  At Oregon Health Sciences University Medical School Tracy studied hormone-regulated cancer, contributing to the early development of drugs like Herceptin and Gleevec.  Both of these drugs are considered cures for certain types of cancers. This experience transformed her vision for how research can contribute to better medicine and better therapies.

In a series of moves, Tracy advanced her career in clinical research, working on numerous clinical trials around the country. Having managed research grants and departments, Tracy has had opportunities to conduct clinical studies for all different indications, including women’s health, men’s health, general health, vaccine research, and a new passion, Alzheimer’s research.  She currently serves on the Leadership Council for the Alzheimer’s Association.

Tracy joins Dr. Carlson as a partner in Be Well Clinical Studies, a landmark opportunity to serve the elder population, and provides focused clinical research to address and improve senior health matters.

Paying for Retirement Living

About the Topic:

Moving to an active adult or independent living retirement community is becoming a common option for many people 55 or older. Others may move to assisted living, long term care, or memory care in order to remain as autonomous and independent as possible despite declines in physical or cognitive health.

The question we often hear is, “How much do these communities cost and can I afford to live there?”

Join us for  an in-depth discussion about the costs associated with independent, assisted living, memory care, and long-term care.

We will answer these questions and more…

What are the costs associated with the different levels of care?

How are retirement community fees determined?

What will happen to the cost of retirement communities in the coming years?

What are the various ways to fund the cost of living in a retirement community?

How do for-profit and not-for-profit communities differ when it comes to costs?

Speaker Information:

Cyndi Cummings, Turnkey Transitions® and The Cummings Home Team at Realty Austin

Cyndi Cummings of The Cummings Home Team specializes in helping older adults (those 55+), senior citizens, and their caregiver families navigate the unique challenges that face boomers and seniors when they contemplate a late-in-life move. The financial, emotional, and logistical issues faced by older adults are unique and demand a specially-trained real estate agent who understands the complexities of such a move.

Cyndi has undergone a rigorous course of training and continuing education to achieve the exclusive designation of Certified Senior Housing Professional (CSHP) and Certified Senior Downsizing Coach, from The Seniors Real Estate Institute and Senior Real Estate Specialist® (SRES) from the National Association of Realtors. Her passion for serving this unique demographic has lead Cyndi to serve as a master trainer, conducting classes for other real estate agents interested in earning these designations.

Additionally, Cyndi is a community leader, having brought together businesses and non-profits to form the Austin Senior Resource Alliance, LT Senior Services, and Turnkey Transitions®, which all serve the needs of seniors in the area.  In addition, Cyndi sits on the Board of Directors for AustinUP and Drive A Senior.

The Cummings Home Team brings all of this expertise together to provide specialized, compassionate service to their Real Estate clients.

Landria Page, Belmont Village Lakeway

Landria Page received her Master’s in Health Administration (MHA) and Graduate Certificate as a Licensed Nursing Facility Administrator (LNFA) from Texas State University in 2014 and her Bachelors in Biomedical Science (BBS) from Grand Valley State University in 2011. Landria is a dedicated and enthusiastic professional with over 14 years’ experience in geriatric communities. Landria joined Belmont Village Lakeway as a Community Relations Associate in November of 2017.

Chantell Gonzales - Edward Jones

As an Edward Jones financial advisor, I believe it’s important to invest my time in understanding what's important to you - your why! I also believe your financial health is as important as your physical health. By creating a strategy and understanding the level of risk you're comfortable accepting when investing, we can partner together to work towards reaching your long-term goals.

I began my career in the financial industry interning for Norwest Financial, now Wells Fargo, while in college, 25 years ago. I proceeded to work as a broker for Hibernia Bank in Louisiana after graduation. I left the financial industry in 2003 to work for Johnson and Johnson. I spent the next 10 years in the pharmaceutical/biotechnology industry before returning to my financial roots.

Giving back to the community is extremely important to me. I am a current member of Lakeway Church, a member of the Lakeway Church Women's ministry serving as a member at large, a volunteer for Mobile Meal Delivery through the Lions Club, member of Lake Travis Senior Services and former member of the National Charity League and Young Men's Service League.

Michele Anderson, Branch Office Administrator, has been with Edward Jones for 10 years and is dedicated to providing you with the highest level of service possible. She also supports the community volunteering through Lakeway Church and the Lion's Club mobile meals program.

My husband, Brent, and I have been married for 24 years. We are blessed with two children, Eric (23), and Leigh (19). Eric graduated from Ole Miss, and Leigh attends LSU. We love to travel and spend time with friends and extended family. We've been in Texas for nine years, and we love it!

Whether you're planning for retirement, living in retirement, saving for college, running a business or just trying to protect the financial future of the ones you care for the most, we will work together to develop a complete, tailored strategy to help you achieve your financial goals.

John Brown, Oasis Senior Advisors Austin

About John Brown a Certified Senior Advisor: I began my career in 1979, when I went to work in the pharmacy retail drugstore business. I spent 36 years with one company and had the opportunity to learn and grow just as the Central Texas and Austin area continued to expand. My wife and I have always been committed to staying in the Central Texas area to raise our children; it is truly is a special place to raise a family. As a community leader and local volunteer, serving people has always been a passion. As a caregiver for my mother as she progresses through the later stages of dementia, I’ve learned first-hand the challenges facing families during these difficult transitions. I have committed myself to helping seniors through transitions offering education, resources and options with their daily living needs, offering dignity and passion to do what’s best for them. Oasis Senior Advisors helps seniors live their best “life.” wherever home maybe. We proudly offer a free senior living service for individuals across Central Texas.  Oasis Senior Advisors Austin, because the right place means everything.

De-cluttering Your Home

About the Topic:

Did you know that physical clutter can also cause psychological clutter? Psychological clutter is known to create depression, anxiety, and even physical illness and disease.

If your current environment is cluttered and you desire to create a more organized and personally satisfying space, this is the seminar for your! Our panel of experts will discuss both the emotional and physical aspects of de-cluttering and will provide practical strategies for de-cluttering your home.

Speaker Information: 

Randi Lyman, CPO-CD® - A Helping Hand

Randi Lyman, owner of A Helping Hand, founded her professional organizing business in 2001. She’s a certified professional organizer, specializing in chronic disorganization & offers residential hands-on and virtual organizing services to people with diverse organizing challenges, whether those challenges are mild, moderate or severe.

Randi's a member of ICD - Institute for Challenging Disorganization, where she has been a board member. She is also a  member of NAPO -The National Association of Productivity & Organizing Professionals, where she served on NAPO Austin’s board.

Since 2016, she’s been named one of the Top Home Organizers of Austin by Expertise.com. She works closely with mental health professional, as well as local and state agencies. She offers her clients a collaborative approach to creating lasting clutter management.

Carol Jones, Professional Organizer, A Jones for Organizing

Carol Jones of A Jones For Organizing began her business in 2009. She specializes in closet design, kitchen efficiency, garage organization, and paper management. Carol helps people with decluttering, managing their belongings, and setting up personalized organizing systems in their home. A Jones For Organizing is one of Expertise.com's Top Home Organizers in Austin. Carol is an active member of NAPO, the National Association of Productivity and Organizing Professionals.

Pam Clyde, BritLin Services

Pam Clyde, a native Texan, studied Business Administration at Texas State University. After college she worked in the insurance industry both as a claims supervisor and sales woman.

In 1998 she began her Professional Organizing business under the name Memories Organized, by helping other people organize their photos and creating keepsake scrapbooks. In 2007 Pam added organizing services of other areas of the home as well as cleaning and re-named her business BritLin Cleaning.  Pam's company is based out of Round Rock and her team of 10 now offers both cleaning and organizing services in the North Austin Area as well as the North Suburbs.

Pam is a member of ARCSI (Association of Residential Cleaning Services International) and NAPO (National Association of Productivity & Organizing Professionals).

She is a NAPO Conference Speaker and has served her local NAPO Austin Chapter since 2014 as Director of Marketing, President and Director at Large.  She has also served at the National level on the Chapter Relations Committee as the Director of Marketing Moderator and was named one of the Top Organizers of Austin by Expertise.com.

Medicare Changes for 2022

About the Topic:

Annually, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) releases premiums, deductibles, and coinsurance amounts for Medicare Part A and Part B programs – these rates are adjusted according to the Social Security Act.  CMS is committed to empowering beneficiaries with the information they need to make informed decisions about their Medicare coverage options.  Learn about the changes for 2022. 

Speaker Information:

Scott Gidley, Founder and President, Charitable Financial Partners

A long-term resident of Lakeway, Scott Gidley has actively supported our community by serving on boards and task force committees; by fundraising for scholarships, teacher grants, LTISD organizations, and youth sports; by volunteering with several local non-profit organizations; and by coaching, refereeing, and umpiring LTYA sports.

Scott’s wife, Beth, is a banker with Independent Bank in Lakeway. His two daughters attended and graduated from LTHS, and both are now teachers in LTISD. Scott enjoys the diverse lifestyle opportunities of our Lakeway / Lake Travis communities, and he enjoys walking his grand dogs in our beautiful parks.

With over 30 years of experience in financial services, Scott Gidley is the founder and President of Charitable Financial Partners, a local financial firm that provides objective and independent Medicare insurance planning advice as well as comprehensive wealth management services. Annually, Scott supports several local charitable organizations.

The Secrets to Aging Well

About the Topic:

Be more mobile. Increase your memory. Discover scientifically proven secrets to happiness.

Are you looking to age well and feel younger? Join us in our aging well presentation.
In this presentation, you will learn simple, proven methods to increase your physical and mental strength. You will leave this presentation with your path to life long success and happiness.

All of the secrets to aging well  shared in this presentation are scientifically proven to work if applied.

Speaker Information:

Wesley Ogles, Fit Mindset

My name is Wesley. I am the owner of Fit Mindset. My love for fitness, exercise science, and nutrition first started to grow when I was a child. From age 8-15, I was overweight and not living a healthy lifestyle. I also suffered from sciatica in my back due to poor posture. I was totally clueless about how to achieve my optimal health and relieve my back pain. A physical therapist and personal trainer both helped empower me. They gave me the knowledge to make my ideal health a reality. After my journey, I decided that the exercise science industry was my career path. Since then, I have changed lives by helping others increase their stability, supporting muscle strength, and overall health. I'm looking forward to helping you live your healthiest life possible!

We take December off. See you in 2022!

55+ Senior Living Options

About The Topic:

More and more retirees of all ages are relocating to active adult and senior living communities all around the country. You may be considering such a move yourself, but just aren’t sure what the fuss is all about!

During this 90-minute panel discussion, you will learn the facts about local 55+ living options from some of the most knowledgeable and experienced professionals in the industry. We will cover locations, amenities, and costs for both purchase and lease options for those 55 and older. 

Speakers:

John Brown, Oasis Senior Advisors

I began my career in 1979, when I went to work in the pharmacy retail drugstore business. I spent 36 years with one company, and had the opportunity to learn and grow as the Central Texas and Austin area continued to expand. My wife and I have always been committed to staying in the Austin area to raise our children; it truly is a special place to raise a family. One of the goals I have for the next chapter in my life is to help people by continuing to give back to local non-profits serving the aging population. As a community leader and local volunteer, serving people has always been a passion. As a caregiver for my mother as she progresses through the later stages of dementia with added complex medical conditions, I’ve learned first-hand the challenges facing families during these difficult transitions. I’m also reminded of the responsibilities we have to honor and provide for our seniors, as I volunteer and work with local non-profit boards focused on the aging population. I have committed myself to helping seniors through transitions and their daily living needs, offering dignity and passion to do what’s best for them.

Lori Elder, The Auberge at Bee Cave

Lori Elder is a marketing director at the Auberge at Bee Cave, an assisted living/ memory care community.

She has lived in the Austin area for most of her life, and has a background in pharmaceutical sales, home health and hospice sales.

Lori is very passionate about helping families in need, and will always go the extra mile to help ensure a smooth transition into memory care.

When she isn’t working, she enjoys spending time with her family, going to movies, cooking, and listening to music.

Landria Page, Belmont Village Lakeway

Landria Page received her Master’s in Health Administration (MHA) and Graduate Certificate as a Licensed Nursing Facility Administrator (LNFA) from Texas State University in 2014 and her Bachelors in Biomedical Science (BBS) from Grand Valley State University in 2011. Landria is a dedicated and enthusiastic professional with over 14 years’ experience in geriatric communities. Landria joined Belmont Village Lakeway as a Community Relations Associate in November of 2017.

Christi Jo Antilley

My name is Christi Jo Antilley and I am a Senior Care Counselor at Arbor Terrace Lakeway Assisted Living and Memory Care Community.
 

My passion for geriatrics can be traced back to my child hood. I can remember watching my Mom lovingly put smiles on residents faces as she styled hair and manicured their nails. She wasn't just a hair stylist, she was an Angel in their eyes. She had the ability to create laughter and make each resident feel as if they were the most important person in the world.
 

Being able to serve the geriatric population is an honor and there is no other career I would rather be in. My goal is to make sure our seniors have a voice. I take pride in advocating for individuals when they find themselves in a situation they are unsure of and need guidance.
 

My background includes providing care in senior living communities such as Independent Living, Assisted Living, and Memory care communities. I have trained in Woundcare and Hyperbaric Medicine, acute care rehab, home health, hospice, skilled nursing, and in home care. I have a BA in Business Management from Texas Tech University...Go Red Raiders.
 

I know that no single approach or plan is right for every senior, and so I have taken my own experiences in a range of modalities and trades to help improve continuity and continuum of care. My goal is to make sure every senior I come in contact with understands that I support them and will make sure they get the best care possible.  

 Holistic Wellness and CBD

Speakers:

Alice Neff

 My main interest has always been how as a healthcare professional, I could better educate people on preventative measures they can take to living a healthy and fulfilling lifestyle. With a bachelor’s degree in Public Health and Nutrition, I was able to explore the important relationship between nutrition and traditional medicine and learn how these complement each other. I am so grateful to have the opportunity to improve lives of those in need, share my knowledge of health and wellness with the community, and never stop learning. 

Debbie Beatty

Debbie Beatty is the founder of Professional Nurse Partners and My Nurse Wellness Coach. She is a registered nurse, certified care manager, and clinical nutrition consultant. Debbie is a clinical nurse educator and has spent over 19 years in clinical practice. Over the course of her career, Debbie has had the privilege of serving in a corporate regional role as clinical nurse educator for several pharmaceutical companies, home health and palliative care.  Debbie is passionate about community health promotion and volunteers with Alzheimer’s Association, Coalition for Compassionate Care and other community organizations. Debbie’s combination of clinical education and experience provides a strong foundation for the kind of holistic approach to her clients that Debbie feels is critical to good patient care – holistic care that considers not only the physical and nutritional aspects of her client’s illness, but the emotional and spiritual aspects as well. She believes that healing and wholeness are matters of body, mind, and spirit. 

Debbie believes in building a long lasting and trusting relationship with her clients. She seeks to acquire a comprehensive evaluation of every patient by taking time to listen and understand their needs. Her true desire is to enhance a positive healing experience and confidence to those in need.

Debbie is working towards her board certification in Holistic Nursing.  She is a member of The American Holistic Nursing Association, National Association of Nutrition Professionals, Cannabis Nurse Network and Aging Life Care Association.

MEMORIAL DAY - NO SEMINAR!

 Stop Stalling and Get Your Estate Planning in Order!

Speakers:

Kay Lively, Attorney and Counselor at Law

 Kay Lively practices law, enjoying her fourth career.  Besides teaching elementary school (100 years ago), she taught international cooking at an Arizona college, and she owned and operated a bed and breakfast near Sedona. But it was her role as birth mother to one child and adoptive mother to four others that motivated her to become an attorney.  Lively specializes in Estate Planning, including Wills, Trusts, and Probate.  She finds that her clients appreciate an attorney with so much life experience.  "I got a chance to turn into a human being before becoming a lawyer," she says.  Her tagline, “Wills Written At Your Kitchen Table”, reflects an extra service she offers. 

Aging in Place and Staying Put

Speakers:

Ray J. Daniel - Fairway Independent Mortgage

Ray “Reverse Ray J” Daniel is a native Texan with 40+ years of Mortgage Banking experience. He has been focused on Reverse Mortgage Loans for the past 5 years. Ray enjoys helping Seniors to realize their dreams in Retirement. He graduated from The University of Texas at Austin with a BA and got his Law Degree from the University at Houston Bates College of Law. He is the former President of the Texas Mortgage Banker’s Association. 

Cyndi Cummings -  

REALTOR®, Broker Associate

Cyndi Cummings of The Cummings Home Team specializes in helping older adults (those 55+), senior citizens, and their caregiver families navigate the unique challenges that face boomers and seniors when they contemplate a late-in-life move. The financial, emotional, and logistical issues faced by older adults are unique and demand a specially-trained real estate agent who understands the complexities of such a move.

Cyndi has undergone a rigorous course of training and continuing education to achieve the exclusive designation of Certified Senior Housing Professional (CSHP) and Certified Senior Downsizing Coach, from The Seniors Real Estate Institute and Senior Real Estate Specialist® (SRES) from the National Association of Realtors. Her passion for serving this unique demographic has lead Cyndi to serve as a master trainer, conducting classes for other real estate agents interested in earning these designations.

Additionally, Cyndi is a community leader, having brought together businesses and non-profits to form the Austin Senior Resource Alliance, LT Senior Services, and Turnkey Transitions, which all serve the needs of seniors in the area.  In addition, Cyndi sits on the Board of Directors for AustinUP and Drive A Senior.

The Cummings Home Team brings all of this expertise together to provide specialized, compassionate service to their Real Estate clients.

Julie Latson - Care Manager, Accountable Aging

Julie Latson, MHA has spent the last 16 years working with seniors and their families, helping them navigate the healthcare system. She graduated from Sam Houston State University with a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology, and completed her Master of Healthcare Administration at Texas State University. A Texas native, Julie’s introduction to healthcare came when she served as Patient Advocate at M.D. Anderson Cancer Center in Houston. With the desire to return to Austin, the bulk of Julie’s experience has been in Austin’s senior living market. She has worked in independent living, assisted living, memory care and skilled nursing both in operations and sales roles. Julie’s passion for helping families connect with resources stems from her own family’s need for such help. Her grandmother battled Alzheimer’s disease for 10+ years, which highlighted the necessity for coordination of care from a holistic perspective. When not working, Julie enjoys spending time with her husband and two young, rambunctious boys. 

Communicating with Your Adult Children

Speakers:

Ariel Goward - Texas Family Services

Ariel knew early on that she enjoyed working with seniors and helping others. She received her undergraduate degree in Social Work from Georgia State University. While working on her degree she also received a Certificate in Gerontology. After graduating, Ariel went to The University of Georgia where she earned her Masters of Social Work degree. After beginning her Social Work career in Atlanta, Georgia, Ariel relocated to Austin. She began working for a hospice and home health company.

In 2013 Ariel founded Senior Services of Austin which specializes in Geriatric Care Management services. In 2013 Ariel’s grandfather’s illness found her helping to navigate the complexities of his care. The guidance she provided in managing long-term care insurance, private caregivers, and the medical professionals helped to alleviate family stress. Throughout this personal experience, Ariel recognized how important case management services are to seniors and their families.

Carlye Levine,  LCSW, C-ASWCM 

Carlye Levine is the Clinical Director at Austin Vitality Counseling. She received her BSW from The University of Texas at Austin and her MSSW from Columbia University in the city of New York. She is a member of NASW (National Association of Social Workers), Vice President of GASW (Greater Austin Social Workers), and is VP of Parent Reps and Volunteers at Balcones Youth Sports.

Following graduate school, I began my career supporting families during end of life in Hospice and Palliative Care. I focused on grief and loss for seven years. I often heard from families, "if only you knew Mom/Dad when...." and decided that I wanted to work with older adults to help them with the process of aging. I began working as a Geriatric Care Manager, and earned my clinical license while focusing on providing psychotherapy to older adults. I was fascinated by the stories of simpler times and the amazing adventures that people had. I have always focused on aging in place and recognize that the transition into retirement is not always a smooth one. It is my goal to provide support during difficult transitions and to shift the focus on maintaining a vibrant and vital life, no matter what age.  

Discounts Available to Seniors

Speakers:

Cyndi Cummings -  

REALTOR®, Broker Associate

Cyndi Cummings of The Cummings Home Team specializes in helping older adults (those 55+), senior citizens, and their caregiver families navigate the unique challenges that face boomers and seniors when they contemplate a late-in-life move. The financial, emotional, and logistical issues faced by older adults are unique and demand a specially-trained real estate agent who understands the complexities of such a move.

Cyndi has undergone a rigorous course of training and continuing education to achieve the exclusive designation of Certified Senior Housing Professional (CSHP) and Certified Senior Downsizing Coach, from The Seniors Real Estate Institute and Senior Real Estate Specialist® (SRES) from the National Association of Realtors. Her passion for serving this unique demographic has lead Cyndi to serve as a master trainer, conducting classes for other real estate agents interested in earning these designations.

Additionally, Cyndi is a community leader, having brought together businesses and non-profits to form the Austin Senior Resource Alliance, LT Senior Services, and Turnkey Transitions, which all serve the needs of seniors in the area.  In addition, Cyndi sits on the Board of Directors for AustinUP and Drive A Senior.

The Cummings Home Team brings all of this expertise together to provide specialized, compassionate service to their Real Estate clients.

 Activities to Keep You Young

About the Topic:

Activities To Keep You Young: Mentally, Creatively, Physically.   

RECORD YOUR LIFE STORY using any smartphone. By Seniors Historian Brian Hill.  Do it yourself, or have someone record it for you, making a video phone call to your home.   

Brian’s 3 popular types of video.  

1. LIFE STORY VIDEO. Your favorite stories, recorded for future generations.  2. TRIBUTE VIDEO. About a loved one who has passed.  

3. THANK YOU VIDEO. For a caregiver or caregivers.   

SENIORS PAINTING. Ed Lynch 

1. How to start.  

2. What paints to buy. 

3. Where to go to get advice.  

SENIORS HIKING/CYCLING. Dennis Lanning.  Former biking tour guide in Europe. Leader of meetup Sierra club hiking.  

1. Gear to buy.  

2. Where to start. 

 3. Austin’s best cycling hiking.  

Speakers:

Brian Hill

Seniors Historian. He discusses the 3 tops seniors gifts for others.  

1. YOUR LIFE STORY VIDEO, your favorite stories captured for future generations. 

2. TRIBUTE VIDEO remembrances about a loved one who has passed. 

3. THANK YOU VIDEO for caregiver or caregivers. 

Brian records all interviews remotely, without coming to you. He uses a video phone all call over a seniors smartphone. Brian then asks a list of questions, chosen by the seniors in advance. 

A great tool for alzheimer’s patients like a picture book on video. 

See examples at www.BrianHillOnline.com

Brian supports the Oral History Institute at Baylor University. 

Ed Lynch

Member Lakeway Painters. Advice on how to start and what paints, brushes and materials to buy. Where to get advice. 

See Lakeway Painters article in the Austin Statesman....

https://www.statesman.com/news/20181115/lakeway-painters-host-art-exhibit-sale?template=ampart

Dennis Lanning

Sierra club and meetup hike leader and avid senior cyclist, leader of cycling trips to Europe. 

See Lecture on hiking across England Austin Statesman... 

https://www.meetup.com/Austin-Sierra-Club-Outings/events/236486904/

  Social Security and Medicare Planning

About The Topic:

When should you take your social security? When do you need to get on Medicare? A Public Affairs Specialist for the Social Security Administration, will talk about your options. Meet a Medicare Superwoman, will be clearing up the confusion about Part A, B, C and D of Medicare and how to avoid penalties. 

This Month's Speakers:

Michelle Feibus, Medicare Superwoman

Michelle Feibus is the Medicare superwoman. She specializes in Medicare planning and assists people over 65 throughout Central Texas. Michelle is well-versed in the Medicare "gotchas" and provides tips for a smooth health care transition. Medicare planning is Michelle's retirement "job." In addition to helping with Medicare, she is a volunteer for the Financial Literacy Coalition of Central Texas and has coordinated the Dave Ramsey Financial Peace University class. She entered the insurance industry after her father was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease and she saw first-hand the importance of obtaining long term care and term insurance.Michelle holds a B.A. from Rutgers University and enjoys traveling, painting and pickleball in her spare time. 

Valery Maercklein, Public Affairs Specialist for Social Security Administration

Valery Maercklein serves as the Public Affairs Specialist for the Dallas Region of the Social Security Administration.  In this capacity, she specializes in outreach efforts for Retirement, Medicare and Social Security Disability.  Her home office is in Austin and her service area includes several cities in Central Texas such as Georgetown, Round Rock, Pflugerville, Elgin and Bastrop.  

Valery started her federal career in the U.S. Air Force where she was a Radar Technician on the AWACS Aircraft.  After her four year commitment, she returned to Austin to finish her Bachelors Degree in the field of Business Management.  She attended Saint Edward’s University and was awarded with the honor of Summa Cum Laude in her graduating class.  After graduation, she decided to continue her federal service with a short stay at the IRS and an eventual transition to the Social Security Administration in the Fall of 2003.

  Downsizing, Rightsizing & Simplifying

About The Topic:

The most commonly used word to describe the downsizing process is “overwhelm.” In fact, many people find themselves paralyzed by even the idea of moving to a smaller or more manageable space.

The good news is that there are people, strategies, and services that can make the downsizing process much simpler and far more manageable! Here are just a few of the questions we will answer at this month’s seminar:

Where do I begin?

Should I sell my house or move first?

What do I do with all the extra “stuff?”

Who is available to help and how much will it cost?

How long should it take to go through my things before moving?

What will my home sell for and how long will it take?

What are the costs associated with moving?

If you are considering a move today, a year from now, or anytime in your future, this seminar is designed to help remove the overwhelm and inspire you to take action — even if it’s just a small action!

Join us and we will share with you the secret to ‘eating the elephant’ one bite at a time! 

This Month's Speakers:

Cyndi Cummings -  

REALTOR®, Broker Associate

Cyndi Cummings of The Cummings Home Team specializes in helping older adults (those 55+), senior citizens, and their caregiver families navigate the unique challenges that face boomers and seniors when they contemplate a late-in-life move. The financial, emotional, and logistical issues faced by older adults are unique and demand a specially-trained real estate agent who understands the complexities of such a move.

Cyndi has undergone a rigorous course of training and continuing education to achieve the exclusive designation of Certified Senior Housing Professional (CSHP) and Certified Senior Downsizing Coach, from The Seniors Real Estate Institute and Senior Real Estate Specialist® (SRES) from the National Association of Realtors. Her passion for serving this unique demographic has lead Cyndi to serve as a master trainer, conducting classes for other real estate agents interested in earning these designations.

Additionally, Cyndi is a community leader, having brought together businesses and non-profits to form the Austin Senior Resource Alliance, LT Senior Services, and Turnkey Transitions, which all serve the needs of seniors in the area.  In addition, Cyndi sits on the Board of Directors for AustinUP and Drive A Senior.

The Cummings Home Team brings all of this expertise together to provide specialized, compassionate service to their Real Estate clients.

  Doctor Talk

About The Topic:

This month's webinar will feature a doctor from WellMed. More information coming soon!

This Month's Speakers:

Info Coming Soon!

  Medicare Changes for 2021

About The Topic:

 Annually, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) releases premiums, deductibles, and coinsurance amounts for Medicare Part A and Part B programs – these rates are adjusted according to the Social Security Act.  CMS is committed to empowering beneficiaries with the information they need to make informed decisions about their Medicare coverage options.  Learn about the changes for 2021. 

This Month's Speakers:

Scott Gidley, Founder and President, Charitable Financial Partners

A long-term resident of Lakeway, Scott Gidley has actively supported our community by serving on boards and task force committees; by fundraising for scholarships, teacher grants, LTISD organizations, and youth sports; by volunteering with several local non-profit organizations; and by coaching, refereeing, and umpiring LTYA sports.

Scott’s wife, Beth, is a banker with Independent Bank in Lakeway. His two daughters attended and graduated from LTHS, and both are now teachers in LTISD. Scott enjoys the diverse lifestyle opportunities of our Lakeway / Lake Travis communities, and he enjoys walking his grand dogs in our beautiful parks.

With over 30 years of experience in financial services, Scott Gidley is the founder and President of Charitable Financial Partners, a local financial firm that provides objective and independent Medicare insurance planning advice as well as comprehensive wealth management services. Annually, Scott supports several local charitable organizations.