Tag Archives: Senior Citizen Interests

Pick Your Long-Term Care Agent Carefully, Advises ACSIA Partners

KIRKLAND, Wash., May 9, 2016 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- The best way to buy long-term care insurance is through an independent agent, according to many experts. But agents vary. How do you pick a professional who is right for you? "We recommend asking six key questions," says Denise Gott, CEO of ACSIA Partners, one of America's largest long-term care insurance agencies.

The questions are:

1. Do you offer any solutions other than long-term care insurance? Today LTC insurance isn't the only way to cover long-term care expenses. Popular alternatives include critical illness insurance, annuities, and life insurance with LTC riders. "Unless you're absolutely sure LTC insurance is what you need," says Gott, "your best bet may be dealing with someone who offers other choices as well. For example, what if it turns out you don't qualify for LTC insurance?"

2. Where are you licensed? LTC agents must be certified by every state in which they conduct business. "Be sure you pick someone who's licensed and covers your area," Gott says. "Also, probe the scope of the agent's practice. Many of the more experienced agents are certified in two, three, or more states. Multiple state certifications may be a sign of a person's experience, but some single-state agents build very large clienteles close to home and may be equally experienced."

3. What insurance carriers do you represent? "If the agent mentions just one carrier, beware," says Gott. "Your best bet is someone who represents several companies offering a range of policy options. The idea is to compare alternative plans and find the one with the features you want at a cost you can afford."

4. Do you receive higher commissions on some LTC policies than on others? "The best answer is no," says Gott. "Some agencies, including ours, have a procedure for equalizing commission income. This ensures that agents get the same commission rate no matter what policy you buy. There's no temptation for them to push a high-profit item."

5. Can you advise me on tax breaks and other financial ramifications of long-term care insurance? "A qualified answer is best here," says Gott. "Experienced agents know about the relevant regulations, but don't pretend to be experts in tax law or estate planning. Instead, they defer to (and often work with) financial advisors, accountants, estate planners, and attorneys."

6. How can I learn more about you? "The aim of this question is to uncover the agent's reputation," says Gott. "Can they name professionals who recommend them? Have they been written up online or in the newspaper? Are they scheduled to speak at an upcoming event? Can they be found on the Internet? Can they give you references?"

Gott's organization has over 300 state-certified long-term care agents in all parts of the country. All are glad to answer the above questions and any others.

ACSIA Partners LLC -- http://www.acsiapartners.com/ -- is one of America's largest and most experienced long-term care insurance agencies serving families and organizations in all states. The company is also a co-founder and sponsor of the "3in4 Need More" campaign, which encourages Americans to form a long-term care plan.

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Twitter: @AcsiaPartners #LongTermCare

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NEWS SOURCE ACSIA Partners LLC :: This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (who is solely responsible for its accuracy) by and Copr. © 2016 Send2Press® Newswire, a service of Neotrope®.

Four Seasons Compassion for Life Launches Foundation to Fund Quality Care during Serious Illness

FLAT ROCK, N.C., May 3, 2016 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Four Seasons Compassion for Life, western North Carolina's leading, community-based hospice and palliative care provider, announces the launch of the Four Seasons for Life Foundation. The philanthropic non-profit is charged with securing the resources to maintain quality care during serious, chronic, or life-limiting illness in Henderson and Buncombe counties, and across the region.

"Personal independence is a core value of mountain people from all walks of life," says Executive Director Loretta Shelton. "Four Seasons is one of the last community-based hospice and palliative care organizations in the state, if not the southeast."

That's why it's crucial to ensure the non-profit continues to provide independent quality care during serious, chronic illness that is unique to Henderson and Buncombe Counties, and western North Carolina, says David Reeves, the foundation's first chairman of the board and a respected business development and advisory board strategist.

"There's no way you can maintain this independence without some outside funding," he says.

A national award-winning, hospice and palliative care industry leader, Four Seasons Compassion for Life maintains a consistent track record of reducing costs while improving patient outcomes during serious, life limiting illness. With benchmark patient and family satisfaction ratings, Four Seasons community palliative care model (CPC) removes barriers to patient care due to location, socio-economics, ethnicity or minority status, or fragility of medical condition.

"If you go to other places, you encounter a cookie cutter approach on how to handle care," says Reeves. "At Four Seasons, there are a lot of extra things they do as standard practice they simply aren't compensated for, as Medicaid does not cover the actual costs of our patient and family care services."

The community based non-profit's services extend beyond palliative and hospice care basics to include bereavement services, veterans' programs, community education, and children's grief support.

"The shortfall of revenue that Four Seasons has now has to come from someplace else," he says. "Hopefully we can raise enough money as a foundation that we can invest the money and use the income to help fund hospice in the future."

To meet this need, the Foundation leadership has assembled a prestigious founding board of directors. In addition to Reeves, members include: Ruth Birge, Dick Burns, Caroline Gunther, Lynn Penny, Cindy Schirmer, Sandy Williams, and Nancy Bouvet, all of Hendersonville; Mary Coffey of Flat Rock; Sherri Lynn Haggard of Fletcher; Henry Johnson of Laurel Park; David Rhew of Horseshoe; and Robert Seiler of Saluda.

Shelton and Reeves agree that the Four Seasons tradition of co-creation will provide a necessary advantage to boost the growth, productivity and create the assets needed to assure the future of Four Seasons for future generations.

Chris Comeaux, CEO, says that given the many challenges the government continues to throw at healthcare providers, the Four Seasons Operating Board remains focused on policy, with little time left for funding considerations.

"For example, out of an hour and half meeting we might - if we were lucky - have five minutes remaining to talk about fundraising. Now having a highly competent, high powered Foundation Board which focuses on nothing except fund raising is a blessing. Their talent, expertise and time is dedicated exclusively to this major priority," he says.

Four Seasons added "Co-Creating the Care Experience" as its tag line in 2009. Co-creation refers to a business practice of creating solutions within communities through collaboration with those served. Though the term was coined in the early 2000s, with frequent references to innovations adopted by the Nike(TM) brand, co-creation with the community is a commitment Four Seasons has honored since it was first incorporated in 1979.

Shelton believes that co-creation extends to partners within the community who support the Four Seasons Compassion for Life Foundation. Secured funding ensures that care choices are uniquely created to meet community needs well into the future.

One of the keys to economic viability in any region is quality health care, she says. An investment in Four Seasons ensures that every person who lives and works in our area has access to the care they deserve. The impact of that commitment improves short and long term economic outlooks for the region, she says.

"Our family, friends and neighbors will get the care they need during serious, life altering illness without regard to economic status, age, or other exclusionary criteria," she says. "Highly qualified workers will be attracted by the knowledge that their needs will be met should the unthinkable occur."

Plus, faced with a rapidly changing, unpredictable health care future, the idea of neighbor helping neighbor resonates with people from all walks of life who call these mountains "home," says Shelton.

"Co-creating philanthropic investment opportunities within our community will ensure that this high quality of care remains available for those with serious illness, and it will remain available whether or not the individual can pay," she says.

Four Seasons' patients are already receiving the benefit of the new Foundation's commitment, says Comeaux.

About Four Seasons Compassion For Life

Four Seasons Compassion for Life - http://www.fourseasonscfl.org - is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization with a dedicated team of health care professionals, social workers, spiritual care professionals and volunteers deeply committed to its mission of "Co-Creating the Care Experience." Nationally known for its leadership in innovative, quality hospice and palliative care services, and serving western North Carolina, the agency is a former Circle of Life award recipient from the American Medical Association.

About Four Seasons Compassion for Life Foundation

The Four Seasons Compassion for Life Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to the philanthropic support of the Four Seasons mission and building legacy through charitable giving of individuals, families, community organizations, and corporate partners. The Foundation commits to secure a sustainable future for quality, independent care for those facing chronic, serious or life-limiting illness in western North Carolina.

Twitter: @fscfl #WNC #FourSeasonsCFL

*IMAGES FOR MEDIA:

(1) Send2Press.com/mediaboom/16-0503-Loretta-Shelton-300dpi.jpg

Caption: Foundation Executive Director Loretta Shelton discusses the increasing need for western North Carolina veteran recognition and funding with HonorAir's founder and Honor Flight Network co-founder Jeff Miller, Hendersonville. Miller, a Hendersonville City Council member, received a 2014 Caring Awards winner for his role in honoring World War II veterans. Four Seasons Compassion for Life is a "We Honor Veterans" partner, recognizing the contributions of more than 120 U.S. Armed Forces veterans facing chronic illness.

(2) Send2Press.com/mediaboom/16-0503-Eric-McCraw-300dpi.jpg

Caption: Eric McCraw, a staff member of the Four Seasons Foundation and Hospice Home Store, assists the Foundation with its move into its new offices in downtown Hendersonville, N.C.

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NEWS SOURCE Four Seasons Compassion for Life :: This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (who is solely responsible for its accuracy) by and Copr. © 2016 Send2Press® Newswire, a service of Neotrope®.

Do-It-Yourself Long-Term Care Can Have High Hidden Costs, According to ACSIA Partners

KIRKLAND, Wash., April 21, 2016 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Rate increases by some long-term care insurance carriers should not scare people off, according to Denise Gott. "Even if a particular policy's premium seems high," she says, "it may be a bargain compared to the alternative, family caregiving." Gott is CEO of ACSIA Partners, one of the nation's largest long-term care insurance agencies.

"Family caregiving has three hidden costs, which can be significant," says Gott.

1. Lost Income. According to the Long Term Care Financing Collaborative, women in their 50s who leave their jobs to care for aging parents lose $300,000 in lifetime income, on average.

Losses can vary. For example, at age 57 Amy left an $85,000-a-year job to care for her father at home for three years. That's $255,000 in lost salary plus thousands more in lost Social Security benefits. In addition, during those three "idle" years, Amy may have become less employable, losing out on tens to hundreds of thousands more.

2. Increased Health Risks. Family caregivers often expose themselves to injury and illness from the physical stresses of handling a loved one, and from the psychological stresses of tending them endlessly. A recent study by the Alzheimer's Association found that family caregivers are 28 percent more likely to go hungry or eat less. Twenty percent said they sacrificed their own medical care by cutting down on doctor's visits.

In a study by the Center on Aging, 10 percent of caregivers said their own health declined due to their efforts. This translated into higher healthcare costs for them, and was especially acute for those who lost their health insurance when they left their jobs.

3. Lost Retirement Assets and Less Investment in the Family. In the Alzheimer's Association study, 13 percent of caregivers said they tapped their savings or retirement assets to help provide care, and many sold personal items such as a car. Eleven percent said they cut back on their children's education.

In a study by the National Alliance for Caregiving and Evercare, 47 percent of working caregivers reported using up all or most of their savings while giving care.

What's the current cost of insurance? According to the American Association for Long-Term Care Insurance, typical policies range from $960 to $2,035 per year for a male age 55; and from $960 to $2,580 per year for a female age 55.

"This may not seem out of line compared to do-it-yourself care," says Gott, "especially if professional care is also needed as the loved one deteriorates." The annual median cost of a semi-private room in a nursing home is $80,300, according to Genworth Financial, Inc.

According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, nearly 70 percent of those 65 or older will need long-term care at some point; and the federal government recommends long-term care insurance for those who can afford it.

Gott agrees. "LTC insurance can provide valuable protection, but it's not for everyone," she says. "Wealthy individuals can self-insure. And those without means may qualify for long-term care from Medicaid." (Medicare does not cover most long-term care services, contrary to common belief.)

"Those who could benefit from LTC insurance owe it to themselves to look into the costs and benefits," she advises. "It only takes a minute to get started. Just go to our website and request a quote. You may also talk with an expert." Her organization has over 300 long-term care specialists in all parts of the country.

About ACSIA Partners:

ACSIA Partners LLC -- http://www.acsiapartners.com -- is one of America's largest and most experienced long-term care insurance agencies serving families and organizations in all states. The company is also a co-founder and sponsor of the "3in4 Need More" campaign, which encourages Americans to form a long-term care plan.

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Twitter: @AcsiaPartners #LongTermCare

To view the original version on Send2Press Newswire, visit: https://www.send2press.com/newswire/do-it-yourself-long-term-care-can-have-high-hidden-costs-according-to-acsia-partners-2016-0421-01.shtml.

Ashley Albers Named Hospice Medical Director of Four Seasons

FLAT ROCK, N.C., March 23, 2016 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Four Seasons Compassion for Life announces the promotion of Ashley Albers, D.O., to the position of hospice medical director.

Albers holds a 2009 doctorate in osteopathic medicine from the A.T. Still University of Health Sciences, and a 2004 bachelor of science in chemistry and mathematics. After a three year residency in internal medicine in the University of Medicine and Dentistry at the New Jersey School of Osteopathic Medicine from 2009-12, she received a Mountain Area Health Education Center, or MAHEC, Hospice and Palliative Medicine Fellowship, Asheville, in 2012-13.

"During my residency in internal care, I observed a lot of interventions within the intensive care unit that made me wonder what people really wanted for their time at end of life," she says.

Her interest in serving patient needs at end of life deepened, and led her to Four Seasons Compassion for Life, where she accepted a position as a palliative care physician in 2013, followed by a promotion to assistant medical director in 2014. She was certified as a hospice medical director in 2015 and completed a year-long mentorship with Chief Medical Officer Janet Bull, prior to promotion to hospice medical director.

"Dr. Albers has done a magnificent job," says Bull. "She has demonstrated astute clinical skills and possesses a great understanding of the regulations of the Hospice Medicare Benefit."

As hospice medical director, Albers oversees the certification of eligibility of hospice patients to receive Medicare benefits as part of day-to-day operations.

Though others may remark upon her rapid rise within the organization, she describes a combination of factors: a willingness to acquire relevant experience and training, timing, and the emergent need to facilitate changes on the palliative care team which required a greater commitment from its members.

"She is a great team player, and continues to aspire to improving care for the patients and families we serve," says Bull.

As the region's population ages, Albers remains inspired by the opportunity to reach increasing numbers of physicians and health care workers.

"A lot of people who could benefit from our services aren't receiving those yet," she says. "I'd like to be part of helping other medical practitioners do this work."

Four Seasons is a non-profit hospice and palliative care organization led by a dedicated team of health care professionals, social workers, spiritual care professionals and volunteers. Four Seasons currently serves patients in Henderson, Buncombe, Macon, Jackson, Transylvania and surrounding counties.

For information on Four Seasons, visit http://www.fourseasonscfl.org.

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Twitter: @fscfl #caregivers #hospicecare

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NEWS SOURCE Four Seasons Compassion For Life :: This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (who is solely responsible for its accuracy) by and Copr. © 2016 Send2Press® Newswire, a service of Neotrope®.

Tax Tip from ACSIA Partners: 2016 Deductions Make Long-Term Care Insurance More Affordable for Many

KIRKLAND, Wash., March 17, 2016 (SEND2PRESSS NEWSWIRE) -- If you're in the market for long-term care insurance, you may be suffering from sticker shock. "The cost may seem out of reach," says Denise Gott. "Many people feel this way, so they put off protecting themselves. That's a shame, because in their case, Uncle Sam may pick up part of the tab." Gott is CEO of ACSIA Partners, one of the nation's largest long-term care insurance agencies.

Federal tax deductions for owning long-term care insurance range from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars, and they're higher than ever in 2016. "Not everyone qualifies," says Gott, "but everyone owes it to themselves to find out if they do and how big the deduction might be. For millions, the net policy cost will be at least a little less than the 'sticker price.'"

For the taxable year beginning in 2016, the limitations under Section 213(d)(10) of the IRS tax code, regarding eligible long-term care premiums includible in the term "medical care," are as follows:

Attained Age Before Close of Taxable Year / Limitation on Premiums:
* 40 or less: $390
* More than 40 but not more than 50: $730
* More than 50 but not more than 60 $1,460
* More than 60 but not more than 70: $3,900
* More than 70: $4,870.

The deductions recur every year that one pays long-term care premiums, and have been increasing annually.

"The idea is to encourage Americans to protect themselves," says Gott. "Unfortunately only about 10 percent of those who could benefit from a policy actually have one. The percentage should be much higher. We think it would be if the deductions were taken into account."

Greater public awareness is vitally needed, and Gott's company is doing what it can to spread the word. "We have over 150 long-term care specialists in all parts of the country. During tax season they're available to consult with anyone or their financial advisor by phone or in person."

About ACSIA Partners:

ACSIA Partners LLC -- http://www.acsiapartners.com -- is one of America's largest and most experienced long-term care insurance agencies serving all states. The company is also a co-founder and sponsor of the "3in4 Need More" campaign, which encourages Americans to form a long-term care plan.

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Twitter: @AcsiaPartners #LongTermCare

To view the original version on Send2Press Newswire, visit: https://www.send2press.com/newswire/tax-tip-from-acsia-partners-2016-deductions-make-long-term-care-insurance-more-affordable-for-many-2016-0317-01.shtml.

ACSIA Partners Alerts Americans to Plan for Alzheimer’s Long-Term Care Before It’s Needed

KIRKLAND, Wash., Feb. 24, 2016 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Today ACSIA Partners, a national distributor of long-term care insurance and education, recommends preemptive action against the impact of Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia. "Cognitive decline is a big and growing reason Americans need long-term care," says Denise Gott, CEO, "and the best time to plan for it is before symptoms arise."

"Think of it this way," she explains. "If you're worried about your house burning down, you wouldn't wait for smoke and flames before getting fire insurance or removing fire hazards."

When it comes to Alzheimer's, most Americans fail to appreciate its danger and avail themselves of sensible precautions, according to Gott. She offers these three guidelines:

1. Recognize the size of the problem. The Alzheimer's Association reports that one in three seniors dies with Alzheimer's disease or another form of dementia. Five million Americans are living with Alzheimer's, and the number is expected to triple as millions of Baby Boomers enter their retirement years.

"Alzheimer's is a progressive and fatal disease," says Gott. "Over time, more and more longer-living Americans may lose the ability to care for themselves. Millions will need long-term care."

And they may need it for an extended period. "Many dementia victims require LTC for seven to ten years or more," she says, "while others typically need care for about three years."

2. Determine whether insurance is the right option. Medicare does not cover many services that are needed by people living with dementia.

Medicaid does provide substantial help, but only for those lacking the financial means to help themselves. If you fall into this category, public assistance may be your best bet.

Otherwise, providing care is up to you. If you're very wealthy, you may choose to self-insure. If you're not rich but doing OK, private insurance may be your best option. "An LTC policy lets productive family members keep on with their jobs and lives," says Gott. "Nobody has to become default caregiver, a role usually filled by a wife, daughter, or other female relative."

3. If LTC insurance makes sense for you, consult with a dementia-aware advisor. LTC agents are state-certified, but there's no legal requirement they know anything about dementia. So it's up to you to pick one who does.

Such an agent can answer questions such as, "How many years of care should my policy cover?" and "What mental or physical disabilities trigger benefits?"

A dementia-aware agent can also help you explore appropriate benefit options available in a wide range of policies from multiple competing carriers.

Gott and her colleagues also support efforts to promote brain health and research to find future treatments for dementia. In January they hosted "Wiggin' Out for Alzheimer's," a gala event in Austin that raised $19,000 for the Alzheimer's Association. Individual ACSIA agents contributed $3,700; CEO Gott matched that with another $3,700; ASCIA Partners as a company contributed $8,000; and the rest came from carriers that ACSIA represents.

"We invite people everywhere to join us in supporting the Alzheimer's Association," says Gott. They may do so here: http://www.alz.org .

"Every amount, large or small, makes a difference," says Gott. "Together we can beat Alzheimer's, just as we beat other diseases once thought incurable, such as smallpox, polio, and TB."

"And in the meantime, we can make our lives better through prudent care planning and healthy lifestyles."

About ACSIA Partners:

ACSIA Partners LLC -- http://www.acsiapartners.com -- is one of America's largest and most experienced long-term care insurance agencies serving all states. The company is also a co-founder and sponsor of the "3in4 Need More" campaign, which encourages Americans to form a long-term care plan.

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Twitter: @AcsiaPartners @alzassociation

To view the original version on Send2Press Newswire, visit: https://www.send2press.com/newswire/acsia-partners-alerts-americans-to-plan-for-alzheimers-long-term-care-before-its-needed-2016-0224-02.shtml.

10th Anniversary Edition of Best-Selling Medicaid Planning book published

LAREDO, Texas, Jan. 5, 2016 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Phylius Press is pleased to announce the 10th Anniversary Edition of the best-selling Medicaid planning book "How to Protect Your Family's Assets from Devastating Nursing Home Costs: Medicaid Secrets" (ISBN: 978-1-941123-04-1), by attorney K. Gabriel Heiser.

Since he started 10 years ago, author Heiser has added the 535-page professional manual version of the book (for attorneys, accountants, and financial professionals), a Kindle version of Medicaid Secrets, as well as six eBooks (available only at http://www.MedicaidSecrets.com/ ), including the brand new one on Veterans' pension benefits.

"Over 10 years ago, as a practicing attorney focused exclusively on estate planning and elder law, I decided to write a short guide that would explain the Medicaid rules," said attorney Heiser. "My initial plan was to create a 30-page eBook. But as I got into it, I realized that to do justice to the extremely complicated laws would take a lot more pages! Besides, simply knowing the law won't help people plan properly, so much of the book is devoted to discussing the options available to people in advance of entering a nursing home. I also added many examples throughout the text as well as five Case Studies in the back of the book, so they can see how the law and planning are applied to fairly typical scenarios."

While the basic laws that cover Medicaid eligibility for a person in a nursing home have not radically changed over the last 10 years, there have been several major federal laws and many state laws and court cases that make it dangerous to rely on out-of-date information. It is for this reason that Phylius Press publishes an annually updated version of the book each January.

"I'm extremely pleased that the book has sold so well over the years, and that many attorneys, accountants, and financial advisers have purchased the professional version of the book ("Medicaid Planning: From A to Z" (ISBN 978-1-941123-03-4))."

An upcoming addition to the line-up of Medicaid planning books is a 75-page Course Workbook and Study Guide, to help the professional learn the material in the "Medicaid Planning: From A to Z" manual. It will include numerous questions with complete answers in the back of the book so you can check yourself to see if you really understand the material.

For more information on the book "How to Protect Your Family's Assets from Devastating Nursing Home Costs: Medicaid Secrets" visit: http://www.MedicaidSecrets.com/ or call 1-888-224-5988.

About Phylius Press:

Phylius Press, in Laredo, Texas, is the publisher of books on Medicaid planning. Its flagship book, the best-selling "How to Protect Your Family's Assets from Devastating Nursing Home Costs: Medicaid Secrets" by attorney K. Gabriel Heiser, was first published in 2007 and is now in its tenth edition (2016). For 25 years Heiser had a law practice that was limited to estate planning, elder law, and Medicaid planning.

* IMAGE for media: Send2Press.com/16-0105-home-nursing-300dpi.jpg

* Image Caption: 10th Anniversary Edition of "Medicaid Secrets" book.

Media Contact:
Kenneth Gabriel Heiser
Phylius Press
Info[at]phyliuspress.com

Twitter: @MedicaidInfo

To view the original version on Send2Press Newswire, visit: https://www.send2press.com/newswire/10th-anniversary-edition-of-best-selling-medicaid-planning-book-published-2016-0105-02.shtml.

NEWS SOURCE Phylius Press :: This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (who is solely responsible for its accuracy) by and Copr. © 2016 Send2Press® Newswire, a service of Neotrope®.

This Thanksgiving, Talk Turkey About Alzheimer’s and Long-Term Care

KIRKLAND, Wash., Nov. 19, 2015 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- November is Long-Term Care Awareness Month, and it's also National Alzheimer's Disease Awareness Month. "Both topics warrant attention this Thanksgiving," says Denise Gott, CEO of ACSIA Partners, a leading long-term care insurance agency. "The risk of Alzheimer's looms large, and the risk of needing long-term care looms even larger."

These two dangers affect millions of families more personally than other topics (like politics, terrorism, and sports) that are likely to grace the Thanksgiving table.

Gott points to disquieting facts:
* Nearly 70 percent of Americans 65 and older need LTC at some point, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

* One in nine people age 65 and older (11 percent) fall victim to Alzheimer's, according to the Alzheimer's Association. The proportion increases to about one in three (32 percent) for people age 85 and older.

* Alzheimer's has become a leading cause of needing long-term care. About one in four LTC claims are attributed to Alzheimer's, according to the Society of Actuaries. Other claims are attributed to physical issues ranging from chronic illnesses to injuries and disabilities.

"These things need to be addressed," says Gott. "And what better time than Thanksgiving, when everyone's together and free to talk?"

After Thanksgiving and the December holidays, ACSIA Partners will showcase a trailer of the motion picture, "It Snows all The Time," at their annual meeting. The feature film is completed and has been submitted to the Sundance Film Festival. It stars Brett Cullen and Lesley Ann Warren and is produced by Erich Hover, whose father, played by Cullen, came down with Alzheimer's and is the basis of the movie.

Cullen is known for appearances in "Apollo 13," "Ghost Rider," "The Dark Knight Rises," many other films, and popular TV series including "The West Wing."

Hover's first movie break came acting alongside Brad Pitt and Philip Seymour Hoffman in "Moneyball." His experience with Alzheimer's in his family allowed him to immerse in the lead role of Jesse in his movie, "It Snows All the Time."

Hover was motivated to create the film after his father started showing symptoms of dementia/Alzheimer's at age 58. Progressing since then, the disease has drastically affected his memory and his behavior, and he will need long-term care soon.

Hover and Cullen will deliver a joint keynote speech at an ACSIA Partners conference in Austin, Texas, on January 16, 2016.

"The Hover family is like many other families celebrating Thanksgiving this month," says Gott. "By sharing their story on film, they humanize the Alzheimer's issue and the need for care that usually comes with it. They help millions take heart and take action."

About ACSIA Partners LLC:

ACSIA Partners is one of America's largest and most experienced long-term care insurance solution agencies with hundreds of agents serving all states. The company is also a co-founder and sponsor of the "3in4 Need More" campaign, run by the 3in4 Association, which encourages Americans to form a long-term care plan.

More information: http://www.acsiapartners.com/.

* PHOTO for media: Send2Press.com/mediaboom/15-1118-hoverfam-300dpi.jpg

* Photo Caption: The Hover family, subject of the movie "It Snows All the Time."

Twitter: @AcsiaPartners

To view the original version on Send2Press Newswire, visit: https://www.send2press.com/newswire/this-thanksgiving-talk-turkey-about-alzheimer-s-and-long-term-care-2015-1119-01.shtml.

NEWS SOURCE ACSIA Partners LLC :: This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (who is solely responsible for its accuracy) by and Copr. © 2015 Send2Press® Newswire, a service of Neotrope®.

50-Somethings Advised to Calculate Their ‘Long-Term Care Savings Gap’

KIRKLAND, Wash., Oct. 21, 2015 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Most Americans are poorly prepared to pay for long-term care costs, but there's a two-step fix, according to ACSIA Partners, a leading long-term care insurance agency. It starts by learning if there's a gap, and how big, between your ability to pay and your likely future expenses.

For most Americans there is indeed a gap. According to a May 2015 report from the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO), 52 percent of households age 55 and older have no savings for retirement (let alone long-term care). If you're among the 48 percent with some retirement savings, you may be prepared to cover some, but not all, of your probable LTC tab.

What to do?

"Step one," says Denise Gott, CEO of ACSIA Partners, "is to see if you have a gap, and how big." Doing so can take less than five minutes. For a rough estimate, Gott recommends entering a few facts into a calculator provided by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services: http://longtermcare.gov/savings-calculator/.

Here's a sample calculation for a 52-year old woman planning to retire in Florida, who could afford to set aside $300 (earning 4 percent interest) per month starting now. She would have a long-term care savings gap of $652,184, based on $839,263 in projected care costs in Florida, for life remaining after age 65, minus $187,079 in accumulated savings, as determined by government data and assumptions.

If the woman were married, there would likely be a similar gap for her partner.

Once you know you've got a gap, "the next step is just as simple and almost as quick," says Gott. "Ask a state-certified long-term care agent to help you explore your options." This can be done by phone or online. An in-person meeting is optional.

ACSIA Partners offers state-certified agents covering all parts of the country. To get in touch with one, just go to the company's website -- http://www.acsiapartners.com/ -- and submit an inquiry form indicating your state of residence.

About ACSIA Partners LLC:

ACSIA Partners is one of America's largest and most experienced long-term care insurance solution agencies with hundreds of agents serving all states. The company is also a co-founder and sponsor of the "3in4 Need More" campaign, run by the 3in4 Association, which encourages Americans to form a long-term care plan. More information: http://www.acsiapartners.com/.

* PHOTO for media: Send2Press.com/mediaboom/15-1021-Denise-Gott-LTCgap-300dpi.jpg

* Photo Caption: ACSIA Partners CEO Denise Gott with graph of LTC gap.

Twitter: @AcsiaPartners

To view the original version on Send2Press Newswire, visit: https://www.send2press.com/newswire/50-somethings-advised-to-calculate-their-long-term-care-savings-gap-2015-1021-01.shtml.

Unique interactive art exhibit coming to Green Hills Memorial Park

RANCHO PALOS VERDES, Calif., Oct. 7, 2015 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- In today's fast-paced world of constant communication, deadlines and the ever-present to-do list, individuals may find it easy to lose sight of their personal aspirations and dreams. A new interactive art exhibit with installations cropping up around the world - including one now being planned by Green Hills Memorial Park in Rancho Palos Verdes the weekend of October 16 - is providing a much-needed opportunity to pause for reflection.

Known as the "Before I Die" walls, this project is providing the catalyst for individuals to consider their life's goals and then motivating them to plan and follow through on those personal dreams.

"It gets you to own what you want to get out of life," said Chris Wendel, sales manager with Green Hills Memorial Park. "Once you write it down, you take more ownership and have more accountability."

Before I Die has become a global art phenomenon as it has invited people to reflect on their lives and share their personal aspirations in public space. This project was started by Candy Chang using an abandoned house in New Orleans as an interactive motivational chalkboard of sorts after she lost someone she loved. Today, more than 1,000 "Before I Die" walls have been created in more than 70 countries, reimagining public spaces and prompting passersby to ponder their life's goals.

Wendel and colleague Tom Frew were introduced to the concept of this thought-provoking art exhibit on a business trip to Houston. The duo was intrigued by the concept that encourages people to share and consider what want to achieve in life. Already, Green Hills' advanced planning guide included information on creating a bucket list as a way to cope with the loss of a loved one. Therefore, the idea of the memorial park's developing its own "Before I Die" art installation seemed a natural fit.

"We are in a unique position in our industry to see folks who lose someone begin to contemplate their own lives and what they want to achieve," noted Wendel, who added that the wall not only encourages such individuals to consider their life's goals, but to own the planning of them as well.

According to Wendel and to Jennifer Frew, Community Events Coordinator at Green Hills Memorial Park, offering the interactive art exhibit dovetails well with the park's commitment to the local community and its residents.

"We are not just a cemetery," said Jennifer Frew. "We are a beautiful memorial park, and our goal is to provide opportunities for continuing to create family memories.

"We are also about celebrating life," added Wendel.

He added that, with its unique spirit and community event offerings, Green Hills encourages people to become more familiar with its setting and to feel more comfortable within the park. Already, the park is home to a popular fall Harvest Festival that draws thousands of local residents as well as events such as summer's "Shakespeare in the Park." Therefore, Green Hills Memorial Park is both a permanent resting place that is accessible to friends and family members as well as a beautiful setting for special celebrations and community events. And, celebrating life is what the "Before I Die" exhibit will be all about.

The special installation at Green Hills Memorial Park will be unique from other interactive versions of the "Before I Die" exhibits. In other settings and in other cities, the installation has taken a variety of forms: from the reimagining of a derelict building, to a moveable wall in several different locations, including a college campus.

Planned to be set near the flowing stream at the park's entrance and near to parking, the Green Hills' Memorial Park's "Before I Die" exhibit will take more of a column format. The columns will be eight feet tall but hinged on the corners to allow them to be folded out to form a wall in the future as display plans allow. Such a wall could be the final format of the park's exhibit if a more permanent setting can be found for the exhibit once the initial run closes.

The "Before I Die" installation at Green Hills is set to open October 16, 2015, just a few days after the park's popular annual Harvest Festival where the concept will be introduced. The installation's opening on that Friday is being planned to coincide with the offering of free flu shots as well.

Initially, there will be anywhere from three to five columns where local residents are welcome to share their lives' aspirations. The interactive columns will be set up to invite people to share for at least the weekend following its October 16 opening.

"We believe it will get people to focus on what it is they hope to accomplish in life," said Frew.

She herself finds she can easily be overwhelmed with the mundane tasks of daily life and work. Contemplation of the coming Before I Die installation at Green Hills Memorial Park has caused Frew to consider some of the things she ultimately wants to be sure she does in her life, including sky diving.

To learn more about the exhibit, the Harvest Festival and Green Hills Memorial Park, visit the park online at http://www.greenhillsmemorial.com/.

Make plans today to stop by the park the weekend of October 16 to check out the Before I Die exhibit and consider your own life's goals.

To view the original version on Send2Press Newswire, visit: https://www.send2press.com/newswire/unique-interactive-art-exhibit-coming-to-green-hills-memorial-park-2015-1007-03.shtml.

NEWS SOURCE Green Hills Memorial Park :: This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (who is solely responsible for its accuracy) by and Copr. © 2015 Send2Press® Newswire, a service of Neotrope®.

Twenty Eight of America’s ‘Top 100’ Long-Term Care Insurance Agents Are with a Single Agency, ACSIA Partners

KIRKLAND, Wash., Aug. 11, 2015 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- High-flying birds tend to flock together. At least that seems to be the case with long-term care specialists from ACSIA Partners, a leading long-term care insurance agency. Twenty eight of them received the "2015 Long-Term Care Sales Achievement Award" and were among the top 100 individual LTCi producers, based on premium.

The awards are made annually by the American Association for Long-Term Care Insurance, the trade association for professionals dedicated to serving the nation's long-term care planning needs.

Why did ACSIA Partners win such a large share of the awards?

"It's simple," says Denise Gott, CEO. "We put our clients' needs first, and they respond by giving us their trust."

"Also," she adds, "long-term care insurance is our specialty. We know the product inside out and recommend policies from multiple high-rated carriers, not just a single source. And we focus on education and service, not selling."

The company also attracts less experienced, up-and-coming agents who bring fresh perspectives and enthusiasm. "We help them grow and succeed," says Gott.

"They're the ones who will make the top-100 list in years to come," she adds. "Partly due to their own professionalism and partly due to help from our veterans, who want the whole organization to thrive."

As 77 million baby boomers approach retirement, "The demand for long-term care planning is likely to mushroom," says Gott. "To help fill the need, we'll be here with some of the top agents in the business."

About ACSIA Partners LLC:

ACSIA Partners -- http://www.acsiapartners.com/ -- is one of America's largest and most experienced long-term care insurance solution agencies. The company is also a co-founder and sponsor of the "3in4 Need More" campaign, run by the 3in4 Association, which encourages Americans to form a long-term care plan.

Twitter: @AcsiaPartners

To view the original version on Send2Press Newswire, visit: https://www.send2press.com/newswire/twenty-eight-of-americas-top-100-long-term-care-insurance-agents-are-with-a-single-agency-acsia-partners-2015-0811-01.shtml.

Check Out Long-Term Care Insurance Agents before Engaging with Them, ACSIA Partners Advises

KIRKLAND, Wash., July 20, 2015 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- If you're in the market for long-term care insurance, you've probably submitted some online forms. And your phone may be ringing. How should you respond? "Cautiously at first," says Denise Gott, CEO of ACSIA Partners, a leading long-term care insurance agency.

Why? "Before any agent can develop valid recommendations and quotes, they need a lot of personal information," she explains. "Sensitive facts about your health and finances. So you'd better know who you're dealing with." Also, she adds, "Their experience matters, so it's good to check that out too."

She suggests going online to answer three key questions.

1. Do they have a professional website? Today a site is an agent's calling card, evidence they're in business and serious about it, she asserts. "Their site provides a wealth of information," she explains. "To find it, ask them for its address, or search for it by entering their name and 'long term care insurance.'" What if they don't have a site? "That's not a good sign," says Gott. "Our agents have robust sites with their picture, location, states where they're licensed, carriers they represent, news about them, and more."

2. Can you find evidence of them beyond their site? "Search for them on Google or Bing, and on social media sites such as Facebook, Twitter, or LinkedIn." Gott suggests. "Enter their name and the words, 'long term care.' Do they come up? How often? Are people recommending them or referring to them? Are they being quoted in the news or industry publications?"

3. Can you find them on specialized industry sites? Many agents have registered with one or more of the following, according to Gott:
* American Association for Long-Term Care Insurance. Registered members are listed by zip code here: http://www.aaltci.org/cgi-bin/distance2agents .
* Long Term Care Guild. Registered members may be found by entering their name in "Advanced search," here: http://ltcguild.ning.com/profiles/members/ .
* National Care Planning Council. Participating agents may be found by state here: https://www.longtermcarelink.net/a7insurancequotes.htm .
* Agent Review, the new rating and matching service for insurance agents and buyers. Registered members may be found by selecting "Long Term Care" as the insurance type and entering a zip code, here: http://agentreview.net/ .

"Once you've checked an agent out," says Gott, "you can breathe easy knowing you're dealing with a pro, and get down to brass tacks."

ACSIA Partners LLC -- http://www.acsiapartners.com/ -- is one of America's largest and most experienced long-term care insurance solution agencies. The company is also a co-founder and sponsor of the "3in4 Need More" campaign, run by the 3in4 Association, which encourages Americans to form a long-term care plan.

* LOGO: Send2Press.com/mediaboom/14-1119-ACSIA-Partners-300dpi.jpg

TWITTER: @AcsiaPartners

To view the original version on Send2Press Newswire, visit: https://www.send2press.com/newswire/check-out-long-term-care-insurance-agents-before-engaging-with-them-acsia-partners-advises-2015-0720-02.shtml.

ACSIA Partners Offers Election Poll on Key Issue: Incentives to Help More Americans Afford Long-Term Care Insurance

KIRKLAND, Wash., June 24, 2015 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Today ACSIA Partners LLC announces a straw poll asking Americans to say which 2016 Presidential candidate, Democratic or Republican, is more likely to back federal incentives for owning long-term care insurance.

Available at http://ltcpoll2016.strikingly.com/, the poll simply asks, "Which party's candidate is more likely to offer new tax incentives for long-term care insurance?"

Why the poll?

"It's not just to take the pulse of the public," says Denise Gott, CEO of ACSIA Partners. "We want to influence the candidates. When they see the poll results, they might start taking the LTC issue more seriously."

The majority of senior Americans lack long-term care insurance, Gott points out. "It's not included in the Affordable Care Act, and Medicare doesn't cover most long-term care needs. Medicaid offers broad assistance, but only for those who lack means."

"For the vast majority of Americans," Gott continues, "private insurance is the only viable LTC insurance option, but millions shrink from the cost. New tax breaks could change that. The candidates need to take a position and include it in their talking points."

Senior voters could tip the election one way or the other, Gott asserts. "There are tens of millions of them. They show up at the polls. And when you add their family members to their numbers, they make up a clear majority of eligible voters."

The straw poll will run continuously and the tally will be updated after each submission. Results to date will be immediately visible to participants, at http://ltcpoll2016.strikingly.com/.

About ACSIA Partners:

ACSIA Partners LLC - http://www.acsiapartners.com/ - is one of America's largest and most experienced long-term care insurance solution agencies. The company is also a co-founder and sponsor of the "3in4 Need More" campaign, run by the 3in4 Association, which encourages Americans to form a long-term care plan.

IMAGES:
*PHOTO (web): send2press.com/mediaboom/14-0827-denise-gott-500x375.jpg

*Photo Caption: ACSIA Partners CEO Denise Gott.

*LOGO: Send2Press.com/mediaboom/14-1119-ACSIA-Partners-300dpi.jpg

Twitter: @AcsiaPartners

To view the original version on Send2Press Newswire, visit: https://www.send2press.com/newswire/acsia-partners-offers-election-poll-on-key-issue-incentives-to-help-more-americans-afford-long-term-care-insurance-2015-0624-01.shtml.

L.A. Celebrates the 71st Anniversary of D-Day, 70th Anniversary of VE Day, and 50th Anniversary of the Vietnam War

LOS ANGELES, Calif., May 13, 2015 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Celebrated philanthropists Jane and Bert Boeckmann of Galpin Ford and the Heritage League of the Second Air Division, announced today they have joined forces again to honor WWII Veterans at the 71th Anniversary D-Day Luncheon at The Proud Bird, 11022 Aviation Blvd, in Los Angeles, on Saturday, June 6. This year the luncheon will also celebrate the 70th Anniversary of VE Day, and the 50th Anniversary of the Vietnam War. All WWII and Vietnam Veterans, as well as their friends and family, are encouraged and invited to attend.

Led by Master of Ceremonies and "Glee" star, Bill A. Jones, the program includes WWII Jewish-French spy and author of Behind Enemy Lines, Marthe Cohn, among other notable dignitaries.

The event commemorates the 71th anniversary of the D-Day Invasion of Normandy, when American and British forces attacked German-occupied France during World War II on June 6, 1944. Fourteen B-24 bomb groups of the Second Air Division, along with the B-17's of the First and Third Bomb Divisions of the 8th Air Force, dealt a crippling blow to the German military-industrial complex.

Although the war would continue, the D-Day invasion marked the downfall of Germany's 'Thousand Year Reich' and the beginning of the victory for the Allies in Europe. Nazi Germany surrendered less than a year later.

The event also commemorates the 70th Anniversary of VE Day, marking the end of World War II, and the 50th Anniversary of the Vietnam War.

For more information, and to purchase a luncheon ticket, please contact D-Day Event Chairman Peggy Learman at (818) 366-6972 or via email at whiteplains38@aol.com. Additional information can also be found by visiting the event's website at http://www.ddayanniversaryla.com/.

About The Heritage League:

The Heritage League (or HL) was established in 1987 by its parent organization, the Second Air Division Association (or 2ADA). The HL mission is educating following generations about the sacrifices of our forbears of the Bomb and Fighter Group Second Air Division in WW II. We do this through informative publications, presentations, our website and a host of other social and educational programs.

We actively support related efforts such as the "living legacy" Second Air Division USAAF Memorial Library, in Norwich, England, The 8th AF Historical Society, and the Mighty Eighty Air Force Heritage Museum near Savannah. Our mission is big, challenging, and exciting. We want your energy, vision and talent. The Heritage League is a 501(c)3 nonprofit org. More information: http://www.heritageleague.org/.

To view the original version on Send2Press Newswire, visit: https://www.send2press.com/newswire/la-celebrates-the-71st-anniversary-of-d-day-70th-anniversary-of-ve-day-and-50th-anniversary-of-the-vietnam-war-2015-0513-02.shtml.

NEWS SOURCE Heritage League of the Second Air Division :: This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (who is solely responsible for its accuracy) by and Copr. © 2015 Send2Press® Newswire, a service of Neotrope®.

Homecare-Friendly Long-Term Care Plans from ACSIA Partners Let Seniors Continue Living at Home and Save Money Too

KIRKLAND, Wash., April 27, 2015 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Many people envision long-term care insurance as a means of paying the bills when they move into a care facility. If you're one of them, "You should widen your vision," says Denise Gott, CEO of ACSIA Partners, an industry leader. "LTC insurance also pays for care in one's own home. But some policies do a better job of it than others." Today ACSIA Partners announces a campaign to promote Homecare-Friendly LTC plans.

Gott points out that long-term care insurance comes in many forms, not all of them ideal for home care. "There are two broad categories of policies," she says, "reimbursement policies and cash policies. With a reimbursement policy you submit bills for approval and subsequent payment, which is usually made to an institution. With a cash policy you get monthly benefit checks that you can use however you wish, giving you great freedom in hiring whatever services whenever you want."

People who prefer to "age in place" (at home) may be better off with a cash policy, according to Gott. But reimbursement policies have their advantages, and some are more friendly to home care than others. "With our approach, we guide clients to the most suitable policies from multiple leading carriers," says Gott.

Receiving care in one's own home is not only preferred by many; it can also be easier on the pocketbook, Gott points out. According to the Genworth 2015 Cost of Long-Term Care Survey, the national average cost of a private room in a nursing home is now $91,250 per year, up 4.17% from 2014. Assisted living facility costs now average $43,200 per year, up 2.86% from last year, according to the study. Serious money.

By contrast, care services provided in the home or community can be relatively modest if used judiciously. Homemaker services are now $20 per hour, up 2.63% from 2014. Home health aide services are also $20 per hour, up 1.27%. Adult day care center costs now run $69 per day, up 5.94% from 2014.

At $20 per hour, in-home care services would run $20,800 per year if utilized 4 hours per day 5 days a week. Adult day care services would run $17,940 per year if utilized 5 days a week.

With lower anticipated costs, a less expensive LTC policy might be appropriate. "Our agents serve all kinds of needs of individuals and organizations," says Gott. "If a client prefers in-home care, a Homecare-Friendly plan will be recommended."

ACSIA Partners includes a few hundred state-certified agents covering all parts of the country. To get in touch with one, just go to the company's website -- http://www.acsiapartners.com/ -- and submit an inquiry form.

ACSIA Partners LLC (in California, xACSIA Partners Insurance Agency LLC) is one of America's largest and most experienced long-term care insurance solution agencies. The company is also a co-founder and sponsor of the "3in4 Need More" campaign, run by the 3in4 Association, which encourages Americans to form a long-term care plan.

*PHOTO (web): send2press.com/mediaboom/14-0827-denise-gott-500x375.jpg

*Photo Caption: ACSIA Partners CEO Denise Gott.

*LOGO: Send2Press.com/mediaboom/14-1119-ACSIA-Partners-300dpi.jpg

Twitter: @AcsiaPartners

To view the original version on Send2Press Newswire, visit: https://www.send2press.com/newswire/homecare-friendly-long-term-care-plans-from-acsia-partners-let-seniors-continue-living-at-home-save-money-too-2015-0427-01.shtml.

Mountain Home Care Launches Free ‘Home Care Guide’ Publication to Assist Families with Aging Issues

ARDEN, N.C., April 15, 2015 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Mountain Home Care founder Lana Wilde knows that when families need help with home care matters, a source of reliable information can be difficult to find. That's why the leading private home care agency in western North Carolina today launched the publication of its "Home Care Guide."

The "Home Care Guide" is a no-cost, high value e-book publication to assist individuals and families with the information about managing the impact of aging on their loved ones.

"Too often, people wait until they need a solution before they look for one," says Wilde. "We want to get the information for good, solid decision making into their hands sooner than later."

The "Home Care Guide" focuses on the core knowledge sought by hundreds of families in thousands of conversations the Wilde family and their highly qualified staff had over the past decade. The book's contents are informed by an intimate knowledge of best practices in the field, current changes in health care practice, and families' most frequent questions about paying for care.

Readers will appreciate the common sense approach to establishing priorities which reflect their real life experiences and questions. Those who download the e-book - at http://www.mountainhomecare.com/ - will:
* Learn the difference between home care and home health care;
* Discover ways to pay for the care their loved one needs;
* Assess when it's time for the idea of in-home care to become a reality;
* Know what type of care giver is needed for one's family situation;
* What to look for when caregiver assistance is needed for a loved one to remain at home;
* And more.

The "Home Care Guide" is designed like a workbook, says Jeremy Wilde, vice president. Family decision-makers may take advantage of the checklists, work sheets, and how-to guidelines to focus thought processes - and share their thinking with one another, he explains.

"We designed the 'Home Care Guide' to be a living document, one which actually has real value and use," he says. "Our desire is to be of true service to those who need good, solid advice, a place to capture their thinking within context."

What emerges is an understanding of next steps on the journey of caring for those we love who are dealing with the realities of aging, he says.

Families in need of additional assistance or insights will also be able to request a personal conversation with Jeremy Wilde to hone in on their more specific questions.

"We're a family business, and we're dedicated to helping families," he says. "That's what's important."

Since 2003, Mountain Home Care, Arden, remains the leading provider of private home care, geriatric care management and skilled nursing services in western North Carolina. Download your copy of the free "Home Care Guide" at http://www.mountainhomecare.com/.

TWITTER: @mtnhomecare

To view the original version on Send2Press Newswire, visit: https://www.send2press.com/newswire/mountain-home-care-launches-free-home-care-guide-publication-to-assist-families-with-aging-issues-2015-0415-07.shtml.

NEWS SOURCE Mountain Home Care :: This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (who is solely responsible for its accuracy) by and Copr. © 2015 Send2Press® Newswire, a service of Neotrope®.

Four Seasons Compassion For Life Awarded Advanced Certification for Home Care from The Joint Commission

FLAT ROCK, N.C., April 9, 2015 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Four Seasons Compassion For Life today announces that it has earned The Joint Commission's Gold Seal of Approval(R) for Home Care. The award recognizes Four Seasons has met the rigorous criteria of nationally recognized and endorsed home care standards through the accreditation process.

The Joint Commission's Gold Seal of Approval(R) is one of the more difficult accreditations to attain, according to Four Seasons' Chief Executive Officer Chris Comeaux. The accreditation offers assurance of the safe, high quality care, treatment and services Four Seasons provides to its patients, families, and community.

"At Four Seasons, the exceptional care of our patients always comes first," says Comeaux. "The commitment of our staff at Four Seasons is in large part responsible for this important benchmark, and I congratulate each individual who had part in this achievement."

Founded in 1951, The Joint Commission has a long and respected history of driving health care toward better outcomes. Today, it remains the nation's oldest and largest standards setting body in health care, accrediting and certifying more than 20,500 health care organizations and programs in the United States.

"Accreditation from The Joint Commission offers assurance that Four Seasons is continuously engaged in assessing and improving the quality of its services and outcomes," says Laura Lambert, quality and compliance director.

To receive accreditation, she explains, Four Seasons submitted to a rigorous review of processes and outcomes. First, the agency provided evidence of compliance with 845 standards in 15 areas, including performance improvement, leadership, provision of care, treatment, services, and environment of care. The summative evaluative survey included live on-site reviews, documentation, and visits to patients and families. The results were conclusive; accreditation was confirmed in a March 31 letter from Mark Pelletier, the commission's chief operating officer, thanking the organization for its participation in the accreditation process.

Lambert described the process as challenging, yet rewarding.

"Surveyors actually observed the staff taking care of patients and followed up with reviews of the clinical documentation," says Lambert. "Thanks to our ongoing emphasis on quality, safety, and performance improvement, out of the 845 standards, we had only three non-critical corrections to make. We're very proud of that standing."

About Four Seasons Compassion For Life:

Four Seasons Compassion for Life - https://www.fourseasonscfl.org - is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization with a dedicated team of health care professionals, social workers, spiritual care professionals and volunteers deeply committed to its mission of "Co-Creating the Care Experience." Nationally known for its leadership in innovative, quality hospice and palliative care services, Four Seasons is a former Circle of Life award recipient from the American Medical Association.

About The Joint Commission:

An independent non-profit, The Joint Commission continuously works to improve health care for the public, by evaluating health care organizations and inspiring leadership to excel in providing safe and effective care of the highest quality and value. Learn more about The Joint Commission at http://www.jointcommission.org/.

*PHOTO for media: Send2Press.com/mediaboom/15-0409-Laura-Lambert-300dpi.jpg .
*Photo Caption: Laura Lambert, quality and compliance director.

To view the original version on Send2Press Newswire, visit: https://www.send2press.com/newswire/four-seasons-compassion-for-life-awarded-advanced-certification-for-home-care-from-the-joint-commission-2015-0409-02.shtml.

NEWS SOURCE Four Seasons Compassion For Life :: This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (who is solely responsible for its accuracy) by and Copr. © 2015 Send2Press® Newswire, a service of Neotrope®.

Medical Care Alert Earns a 2014 Angie’s List Super Service Award for Third Year

NORTHVILLE, Mich., March 31, 2015 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- For the third year in a row, Medical Care Alert has earned the coveted Angie's List Super Service Award, reflecting another exemplary year of service provided to members of the consumer review site in 2014.

"We are thrilled to be recognized again for our high level of customer service," said Bryan Stapp, President of Medical Care Alert. "Our team members go to tremendous lengths every single day to deliver the best customer service in the industry. We treat our customers like family, and we protect many of our own family members with our service."

Medical Care Alert is a national provider of emergency medical alert systems for senior citizens, providing 24/7 monitoring and protection in the event of a fall or other emergency situation.

"Only about 5 percent of companies have performed so consistently well enough to earn our Super Service Award," said Angie's List Founder Angie Hicks. "It's a really high standard."

Stapp also noted Medical Care Alert has an overall "A" rating with Angie's List readers, plus an "A+" rating as an Accredited Member of the Better Business Bureau (BBB).

Angie's List Super Service Award 2014 winners have met strict eligibility requirements, which include an "A" rating in overall grade, recent grade, and review period grade; the company must be in good standing with Angie's List, pass a background check and abide by Angie's List operational guidelines.

Service company ratings are updated daily on Angie's List. Companies are graded on an A through F scale in areas ranging from price to professionalism to punctuality.

About Medical Care Alert:

Medical Care Alert's "Help At The Push Of A Button" medical alert monitoring service provides independence and peace of mind for thousands of seniors and their families in all 50 states. Systems cost around $1 day, with nothing to buy and no long term contracts. The company has an A+ rating with the BBB and with Angie's List, and has received the Angie's List Super Service Award for three consecutive years. Learn more at http://www.MedicalCareAlert.com/ .

About Angie's List:

Angie's List helps facilitate happy transactions between nearly 3 million consumers nationwide and its collection of highly-rated service providers in 720 categories of service, ranging from home improvement to health care. Built on a foundation of authentic reviews of local service, Angie's List connects consumers directly to its online marketplace of services from member-reviewed providers, and offers unique tools and support designed to improve the local service experience for both consumers and service professionals.

VIDEO about Medical Care Alert: https://youtu.be/2PtqMDJiL5I .

Twitter: @MedicalCareAlrt

*LOGO for media: Send2Press.com/mediaboom/15-0331-mcalert-300dpi.jpg .

To view the original version on Send2Press Newswire, visit: https://www.send2press.com/newswire/medical-care-alert-earns-2014-angies-list-super-service-award-for-third-year-2015-0331-006.shtml.

NEWS SOURCE Medical Care Alert :: This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (who is solely responsible for its accuracy) by and Copr. © 2015 Send2Press® Newswire, a service of Neotrope®.

Getting the Lowdown on Long-Term Care Insurance No Longer Laborious Thanks to Tech-Savvy Agents

KIRKLAND, Wash., March 24, 2015 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) -- Thinking about long-term care insurance but loathe to schedule a lengthy interview in your home? You may be laboring under an outmoded assumption, that reaching out to an expert is a big deal. That's no longer the case with a new breed of tech-savvy agents. So says ACSIA Partners, an industry leader, in a consumer alert issued today.

"Ten years ago," says Denise Gott, the company's CEO, "you made an appointment with an agent who came to your home and spent a fair amount of time with you. And you might have worried about sales pressure. But times have changed."

Lengthy in-home meetings are still available, she reports, but they're less and less the norm, at least in her organization. "Now most of our agents are connected and quick. They work remotely, by phone and screen-sharing, and they stick to the facts, respecting your time."

Many people assume the old time-consuming, face-to-face practices still prevail, according to Gott, "So they spend hours browsing the internet on their own, when they could get the facts in minutes from someone who knows."

She recommends reaching out in three-steps:
(1) Rule LTC insurance in or rule it out. "Just call one of our agents or have one call you. Say you've got five minutes and want to know if the insurance is right for you. Our agents ask concise screening questions and can steer you right, and quickly."

Long-term care insurance isn't for everyone, Gott points out. Other care solution (such as annuities, critical illness insurance, or life insurance with LTC riders) may be better for your situation. "The agent will tell you frankly."

(2) Ask for competitive quotes. "If LTC insurance is indicated, our agents go to bat for you," says Gott. "They don't offer just one policy choice. They research multiple options from multiple carriers, looking for the best set of benefits at the lowest cost. Then they present the choices to you, in your home if you like, or by PC, phone, and overnight mail."

(3) Submit an application or say no thanks. Once you receive the recommendations, the ball is in your court. Ask questions, thoroughly understand each policy choice from each carrier, and then pick one. Or reject them all. "Saying no is a rational response," says Gott. "Our agents are professionals. They don't take offense. And if you're dealing remotely, saying no may be easier."

If you decide on one of the proposed policies, the agent can help you complete the application. "There's very little paperwork that you have to do personally," says Gott. "Our agents handle most of it for you. It's part of their job."

"The main point," says Gott, "is not to put off seeking help because of outmoded assumptions. You're not committing to anything. All you're doing is asking for some quick answers."

ACSIA Partners includes a few hundred state-certified agents covering all parts of the country. To get in touch with one, just go to the company's website -- http://www.acsiapartners.com/ -- and submit an inquiry form indicating your state of residence.

ACSIA Partners LLC (in California, xACSIA Partners Insurance Agency LLC) is one of America's largest and most experienced long-term care insurance solution agencies. The company is also a co-founder and sponsor of the "3in4 Need More" campaign, run by the 3in4 Association, which encourages Americans to form a long-term care plan.

On July 2, 2014, LTC Financial Partners LLC and LTC Global Marketing Inc. announced the completion of the merger of the two companies into ACSIA Partners.

*Photo Caption: ACSIA Partners CEO Denise Gott.

*LOGO: Send2Press.com/mediaboom/14-1119-ACSIA-Partners-300dpi.jpg .

Twitter: @AcsiaPartners

To view the original version on Send2Press Newswire, visit: https://www.send2press.com/newswire/getting-the-lowdown-on-long-term-care-insurance-no-longer-laborious-thanks-to-tech-savvy-agents-2015-0324-001.shtml.

NEWS SOURCE ACSIA Partners :: This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (who is solely responsible for its accuracy) by and Copr. © 2015 Send2Press® Newswire, a service of Neotrope®.

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