princeton daily clarion's how-to guide

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Valuable information on local products and services

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guide 2015

ASCSeniorCare.com

Experts in Rehabilitation

“Where caring people make the difference!”

Our Moving Forward program is designed for those striving to restore abilities lost due to stroke, cardiovascular difficulties, orthopedic surgery and other debilitating conditions.

Programs vary in frequency and intensity and include physical, occupational and speech/languagetherapies. Our goal is to return our participants home safely with the skills they need to continue life on their own terms.

to livingGet back

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• Newly Remodeled Suites with TVs, Phones and Refrigerators • Therapy Services provided 7 Days/Week • Vital Stim Certified • Transportation Provided

Lamb-Basham Memorial Chapel 226 E. Washington, Oakland City • 812-749-4024 Jerry L. Basham Locally Owned & Operated Since 1891

www.lambbasham.com LB

Doyle Funeral Home

“A Funeral Ministry with Warmth and Understanding”

520 S. Main St., Princeton, IN • 812-385-4334 doylefuneralhomeprinceton.com

Princeton Daily clarion, oaklanD city Journal anD the weekenDerJuly 2015

A Nursing HomeHo

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.. .. It is vital for your family member that you spend a considerable amount of time researching the nursing home before you send them to the home. It is much easier to pick a good home in the beginning than it is to choose a poor home and have to go through the many obstacles to improve the care or try to transfer your family member to another facility. It is important not to judge the nursing home on the basis of a guided tour or the nice furniture and wallpaper in the lobby. You must remember that, especially in a for-profit nursing home, they put a lot of effort in marketing to convince you to bring your family member to their home. The pictures of happy grandmas in their brochures, nice dining rooms and landscaped entrances do not give you an idea of the quality of the basic care that your family member will receive.

There are many ways to go about selecting a nursing home that will be right for you. Besides researching state inspection reports, getting word of mouth recommendations and looking at promotional literature; nothing is more valuable than the insight you gain from making personal visits. Visit more than one nursing home, and visit more than once. Ask a lot of questions, and trust your feelings about the places you visit.

Find out as much as you can about each nursing home. A good way to do this is to talk to:

• The long-term care ombudsman, who visits nursing homes and investigates complaints.

• Doctors, nurses, hospital social workers, clergy, and other professionals who are familiar with nursing homes.

• Family members and friends of people who live in the nursing homes.

• Residents of the nursing homes. • Nursing home employees,

especially nursing assistants, who give 90 per cent of the care.

Ask A Lot Of Questions About Any Nursing Home You’re Interested In. Examples:

• Do people you talk to regard this as a good nursing home?

• Has the state licensing agency found an unusual number of violations here?

• Does the home have enough staff, especially nursing assistants, to give residents the care and personal attention they need?

• Are staff friendly, considerate, and helpful?

• Are residents treated with dignity and respect?

• Are there a lot of staff changes because workers leave?

• Do staff do their jobs well? • Does the nursing home provide

the special services your loved one needs?

• Are there always enough linens and other supplies?

• Are families concerned about fee increases or extra charges for supplies or services?

• Is the “quality of life” good-such things as choices of food at meals and which clothes to wear, a home like environment, and interesting or entertaining activities?

• Does the nursing home have an active resident council? An active family council?

• Are there some really good things about this facility?

Planning Planning ahead is one of the best ways to ease the emotional stress when seeking a nursing home. If you are helping a relative or a friend find a nursing home, involve them in the process as much as possible. If the person is mentally alert, it is essential that their wishes be considered every step of the way.

By planning ahead and educating yourself and your family about nursing home care and services, it will become a much easier transition when you can no longer put off admitting someone to a nursing home. It will also put the future resident’s mind at ease to know what

to expect in the admission process and the first few days in their new home.

• Visit rooms where various therapies and recreational programs are held.

• Observe the dining area, beauty salon and the schedules for each.

• Inquire about security measures, especially for residents who have a tendency to wander.

• Ask about facility policies regarding use or installation of telephones, cable television and bringing personal items into the facility.

• Observe how the staff meets with you and how they interact with other residents during your visit (are they respectful, caring, and attentive?)

• Observe if the residents are occupied, supervised, satisfied, well groomed and if the rooms are personalized.

• Is the facility free of over- whelming unpleasant odors?

• Is the home clean and well- maintained?

• Do chairs and other furniture seem sturdy, attractive and comfortable?

• Is the facility well lighted? • Taste the food, is it good? • Are the residents who need help

eating receiving assistance? • Are there hand rails in hallways

and grab bars in bathrooms? • Is the temperature comfortable? • Do patients’ rooms have

windows?

What You Should Know • Do not choose a

nursing home on the basis of a guided tour or the nice furniture and wallpaper in the lobby.

• In selecting a nursing home make personal visits.

• Ask a lot of questions about any nursing home you’re interested in.

• Planning ahead is one of the best ways to ease the emotional stress when seeking a nursing home.

231 N. Jackson St., Oakland City, IN 47660

812-749-4774

Princeton Daily clarion, oaklanD city Journal anD the weekenDer July 2015

Non Profit Charity OrganizationsHo

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.. .. ABATE of Indiana, Inc: Region 13 (American Bikers Aimed Toward Education) 812-724-2063 E-mail: [email protected]

Adult Literacy Group of Gibson County, Inc. Princeton Instructional Center of Ivy Tech 2431 S. Crabtree Drive PO Box 1134, Princeton, IN 47670 812-215-6138 www.gibsoncountyadultliteracy.org E-mail: [email protected]

American Foundation for Suicide Prevention Indiana Chapter (State-wide) 812-779-6986 Local E-mail: [email protected] E-mail: [email protected] www.afsp.org/Indiana www.OutoftheDarkness.org Facebook: Out of the Darkness Walk & Suicide Prevention of Gibson County Facebook: American Foundation for Suicide Prevention - Indiana Chapter

American Legion Johnson-Curd Post #256 211 E. Washington St. Oakland City, IN 47660 812-749-8178 E-mail: [email protected]

Celebrate Recovery Every Friday Night at Enon General Baptist Church 3467 S US Hwy 41 Princeton, IN 47670 812-385-2122

Doulos Family Services, Inc. 1153 E. 150 S. Princeton, IN 47670 812-386-9283 www.doulosfamilyservices.org E-mail: [email protected] Facebook: Doulos Family Services

Downtown Princeton, Inc. Phone: 812-385-1922 Fax: 812-386-6054 127 N. Hart St., Princeton, IN 47670 E-mail: [email protected] www.downtownprincetonin.com Facebook: Downtown Princeton Indiana

Fort Branch Community Pride 104 N. Main St., Ft. Branch, IN 47648 812-615-0039 E-mail: [email protected] Facebook: Ft. Branch Community Pride

Francisco General Baptist 102 N. Main St. Francisco, IN 47649 812-782-3634 www.fraciscogbc.com

Gentle Shepherd Church of God 8350 E. 350 N. Francisco, IN 47649 618-262-3906 Facebook: Gentle Shepherd Church of God

Gibson County Community Foundation 127 N. Hart St. Princeton, IN 47670 812-386-8082 www.gibsoncountyfoundation.org Facebook: Gibson County Community Foundation

Gibson County Council on Aging 212 S. Richland Creek Dr. Princeton, IN 47670 812-385-2897

Habitat for Humanity of Gibson County 1302 W Brumfield Avenue Princeton, IN 47670 812-385-2434 ww.gibsoncountyhabitat.com E-mail: [email protected]

Knights of Columbus #2215 PO Box #34 117 S. Main St. Haubstadt, IN 47639 812-779-7977 E-mail: [email protected]

Oakland City Lions Club PO Box 113 Oakland City, IN 47660 812-677-0728 Facebook: Oakland City Lions Club

Princeton Elks Lodge #634 302 N. Hart St. Princeton, IN 47670 812-385-2518 Facebook: Princeton Elks Loge 634

Princeton Lady Elks #634 302 N. Hart St. Princeton, IN 47670 812-385-2518 Facebook: Princeton Elks Loge 634

Princeton Kiwanis Every Wednesday at noon at Gibson General Hospital Health & Education Room 812-664-3503

Purdue Extension – Gibson County / Gibson County 4-H 203 S. Prince St., Suite B, Princeton, IN 47670 812-385-3491 www.extension.purdue.edu/Gibson

Salvation Army 202 S. Gibson St. Princeton, IN 47670 812-386-6577 www.corps.salvationarmyindiana.org/ princeton

St. Stephen’s Community Church PO Box #335 12152 S 200 E Haubstadt, Indiana 47639 812-768-6479 Facebook: St. Stephen’s Community Church

Suicide Awareness and Prevention of Gibson County 1556 E. Broadway St. Princeton, IN 47670 812-677-1509 Facebook: The A Team News

The Education Center Mailing address: 2944 E. Carithers Rd. Princeton, IN 47670 Physical address: 1104 S. Stout St., Princeton, IN 47670 812-664-2693 E-mail: [email protected] www.educationcenterinc.wordpress.com Facebook: The Education Center Inc.


Air ConditioningHo

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.. .. How Do I Choose An Air–conditioning System? Selecting a central air conditioner is an important decision, since the air conditioning system is a home’s largest energy user. The right AC system makes a home comfortable and efficient. The wrong one can cause discomfort, humidity and maintenance problems and increase your utility bills.

Purchasing an AC unit is one of the largest investments — both at purchase and in operating costs — homeowners can make in their property. As with any major purchase, the more information you have the better decisions you can make.

What Should I Know Before Looking? Making an informed AC equipment choice means:

• Selecting a reliable heating, ventilating and air conditioning (HVAC) contractor.

• Getting a thorough load calculation completed on your home.

• Purchasing an efficient, properly sized HVAC system.

• Choosing a thermostat that provides comfort and encourages efficient energy use.

How Do I Select An HVAC Contractor? When searching for a conscientious, licensed, bonded contractor always contact your regional Better Business Bureau to make sure the contractor you select has a satisfactory rating. The regional office should be listed in the business white pages in your local telephone directory. The contractor you select should complete a cooling load analysis, and a humidity load analysis. In addition, the contractor should provide service after the installation and an AC operation manual.

What Is A Cooling Load Analysis? A cooling load analysis calculates how much heat enters your home in one hour when the outdoor temperature reaches 95 degrees. This analysis ensures that even at 95

degrees your AC capacity will be sufficient to remove the unwanted heat. An incomplete cooling load analysis can cause you to make a poor AC choice. Many contractors simply estimate the cooling load and the size of equipment you need based only on the square footage of the home. Often this rule-of-thumb approach used one TON of air- conditioning per 500 square feet of floor area. This estimate usually results in improper equipment size. A reputable contractor will complete a load calculation that also includes a humidity load. If you are replacing a unit, a load analysis should be done by a HVAC contractor to determine if the older unit size is really appropriate.

What Should The Calculation Consider? Heat passes through the walls, roof, windows, and doors and is generated by people in the home. The load calculation should consider all of the following heat and humidity factors:

• Surface area of the walls, attic, windows, and doors

• Type and thickness of the insulation in the walls, attic and floors

• Construction of the walls, floor and roof

• Type, size, orientation and number of windows

• Orientation of house • Permanent exterior shading • Occupant activities • Kitchen, bath, and laundry

equipment • Ventilation needs • Outdoor air infiltration • People capacity of the home

(using two persons per bedroom) Many other factors can increase a home’s humidity. Cooking, extra people in the house, lighting, and moisture from the bath, houseplants, kitchen or laundry contribute to indoor moisture and increase the home’s cooling load.

How Is Equipment Sized For A Home? Air conditioning equipment is available in many different sizes for different types of homes. The term

“size” refers to the combined cooling capacity and dehumidification capacity. A cooling load analysis gives the required size of the AC unit based on the largest expected heat gain of the house. Cooling load and equipment size is expressed by BTUH (British Thermal Units per Hour) or TONS; one TON of AC equals 12,000 BTUH. Many contractors simply add 25 to 30 percent to the cooling load analysis to account for humidity. In many homes this short cut can actually increase humidity levels reaching 30 to 50 percent of the total cooling analysis. In humid areas, it is important to have a cooling load analysis that gives the humidity gain including moisture from outdoor air, cooking, showers and washing.

J.E. Shekell Assessment Will Show Us Your Home’s Needs At J.E. Shekell we’ve been keeping homes comfortable and in good condition since 1978. Let our team of Home Comfort Specialists inspect your homes HVAC system. We’ll talk about cooling needs based on the factors that affect your home such as humidity levels, construction, size of the system best for you and cost of long-term operation. Call family- owned J.E. Shekell. Customer satisfaction is our cornerstone.

What You Should Know

• Purchasing an AC unit is one of the largest investments homeowners can make in their property.

• Contact your regional Better Business Bureau to help you make a decision on an HVAC contractor.

• Air conditioning equipment is available in many different sizes for different types of homes.

424 W Tennessee St, Evansville, IN 812-425-9131

Shekell.com


A Funeral HomeHo

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.. .. Here Are Some Questions You Should Ask When Selecting A Funeral Home

Materials To Pick Up While At The Funeral Home

What Is A Funeral And Why Have One?

What Do Funeral Directors Do?

Points To Remember • Visit several funeral homes before deciding on one. • Check the funeral home’s reputation by talking with friends or clergy first. • Make sure the person handling your funeral arrangement in your time of need is licensed. • Plan ahead if possible, but that doesn’t necessarily mean pay ahead.

Choosing A Cemetery • Make sure the cemetery is licensed. • Check the cemetery’s reputation by talking to friends, local clergy and the Better Business Bureau. • Inspect the cemetery yourself. • Ask questions. How do they handle complaints?

425 N. Main Street, Princeton, IN, 47670 812-385-5221

323 N. Main Street, Oakland City, IN 47660 812-749-4021


Colvin Funeral Home

425 N. Main Street, Princeton, IN, 47670 812-385-5221

Corn-Colvin Funeral Home

323 N. Main Street, Oakland City, IN 47660 812-749-4021

www.colvinfuneralhome.com

Here for you and your family


Hospice Ho

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.. .. How To Choose Hospice Care Hospices offer services to help people facing a terminal illness live as fully as possible until they die…and to help family members support them along the way and to go on with life after the loss of their loved one.

The roots of hospice date back to ancient times; and even though the American hospice movement has been around for several decades, many misconceptions about this care still exist. For example, hospice is not just for people with cancer. It is not just medical care. And it is not a particular place where you go to die. Rather, hospice is a philosophy of care that encourages people to learn to accept death as a natural part of life; to maintain control of their lives and participate in decisions as much as possible; to ensure that pain and other symptoms are well-managed; and to address the physical, emotional and spiritual challenges created by serious illness, separation and death.

Hospice is generally for individuals with a life expectancy of six months or less if the disease or condition follows its normal course as certified by the patient’s personal physician. Hospice is similar to palliative care in that it provides comfort measures to the dying person as well as support to family members; with hospice, however, treatments specifically aimed at curing the person’s illness are stopped. If hospice patients live beyond the six-month timeframe–as some do–they may still receive hospice services as long as a physician continues to certify their eligibility for this care.

The Hospice Team Hospice care relies on the combined knowledge and skill of a team of professionals who oversee and coordinate an individualized plan of care for each patient. This team generally includes a physician who serves as the medical director; plus

hospice-trained registered nurses, aides, social workers, therapists and spiritual care staff. Volunteers also play a significant role in hospice care by providing companionship to the patient, homemaking assistance, respite for family caregivers or clerical support to the hospice agency; some also share special talents such as music therapy, massage or pet therapy. Volunteers who are part of a Medicare certified hospice agency must participate in an intensive training program before assisting patients and families.

Most hospice care takes place in the home, provided by the hospice team along with informal caregivers including family, friends or neighbors. Hospice may also be delivered in assisted living or a skilled nursing facility; or in an inpatient hospice center if pain and symptoms cannot be adequately managed in another setting.

Paying for Hospice Congress enacted legislation in 1982 that created a Medicare hospice benefit. Today, Medicare, Medicaid and most private insurance offer a hospice benefit that covers the cost of medications related to the terminal illness, necessary medical equipment and supplies, and the services provided by the hospice team. Hospice agencies typically have staff that coordinates insurance and payment; many agencies offer options for financial assistance to those unable to have their care covered. The hospice benefit also includes bereavement support to family members–usually for up to 13 months following the patient’s death.

Value and Cost-Effectiveness of Hospice In comparison to hospital and skilled nursing facilities’ costs, hospice is recognized as cost-effective, with hospice charges per day substantially lower than care in other settings. Cost-effectiveness, however, is not the sole rationale for hospice care. It is important for terminally ill

individuals to decide how they want to spend their remaining time, where they want to be and what is significant and meaningful to them as they face the end of life…and then to have conversations with their families about these wishes. Hospice can help facilitate this process while alleviating the discomfort, pain and depression that often occur as the disease progresses. In fact, the most common sentiment hospice agencies report hearing from families is “we wish we would have called you sooner.”

How to Make a Decision First, talk with your physician. He or she can help you determine when the time is right for hospice care. Next, learn about the hospice services available in your area; visit with representatives from any hospice agency you are considering. If the patient lives in a nursing home or assisted living facility, discuss the issue with the social services or administrative staff; these individuals should be able to provide you with information about hospice agencies in the community. If you know of others who have used hospice services, talk with them and find out if they were satisfied with the care they received. Although all hospices provide the same basic services, how those services are delivered will vary from hospice to hospice. And finally, remember that you and your family always have the right to choose which hospice you use–and to change providers if you are not satisfied with your care. And if you have a change in your condition–or a change of heart–you also have the right to discontinue hospice care either temporarily or permanently. Hospice is about you and your life.

For more information and resources on hospice care, please visit the website of the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization at www.nhpco.org.

812-385-8857 800-659-4862

www.deaconessvnaplus.org


Medicare/Medicaid Certified Not-for-Profit Serving Our Communities Since 1888

812-385-8857 800-659-4862


It’s About You and Your Life.

Deaconess VNA Plus Hospice supports patients and families in living each day—

in ways that are personal and meaningful— by providing expert physical, emotional and

spiritual care in your home, in facilities including Deaconess Hospital, and in the inpatient John and Betty Charlier Hospice Center.

You are not alone. The Charlier Center...the Tri-State’s only

freestanding inpatient hospice center, located on the Deaconess VNA Plus campus in Evansville.


A PhysicianHo

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.. .. Everyone Eventually Gets Sick Sooner or later everyone gets sick, so sooner or later everyone needs a doctor.

But finding the right physician is not always easy. Since people require different things from their physicians, it’s difficult to provide blanket guidelines to find a good doctor. But there are some basic tips everyone can find useful.

Basic Tips A good first step is to ask friends and family members who have had good experiences with a physician.

Second, contact clinics and hospitals in your area.

A good doctor is a combination of someone with good medical skills and good interpersonal skills the patient can relate to.

The best way to find out if a doctor has these qualities is to ask questions.

Where did the doctor go to school? Where did they do their residency? Where did they intern?

Is the doctor board-certified in his or her area of specialization?

Patients should ask about after-hours coverage. Who handles it and how is it done?

Another important question is how often the doctor wants to see the patient. Do they want to see the patient on a regular basis or just when they are sick?

Preventive health services can be important to some patients. Does the doctor provide screening exams, immunizations and other such services?

What about office hours? Is the doctor’s office open in the evenings or on weekends?

How does the doctor’s office handle scheduling? What other services does the clinic offer? At what hospital is the physician on staff?

Many of these questions have no right or wrong answers. It just depends on what fits the patient’s needs.

Be Honest Patients should be upfront about what they are looking for in a physician and ask questions to find out if the doctor they are seeing will fit their needs.

Sometimes it may take several visits to different doctors to find one that a patient can relate to and feels comfortable with.

If a doctor is in attentive, doesn’t get along with the patient or the patient is uncomfortable talking with the physician, they may want to seek another doctor.

Staff Is Important, Too A doctor’s staff can be a reflection upon the physician.

For example, a good doctor should have a staff member explain why a patient has to wait a long time.

Patients in turn need to be patient, because emergencies can happen. The next time the emergency could involve the patient that once had to wait. Finally, payment for medical services must be considered.

Patients need to make sure doctors they are looking at take their insurance. If patients don’t have insurance, they need to make sure they can reach a payment arrangement with the doctor.

Finding a good doctor is not an easy task. The right relationship between a doctor and a patient is different for every person. The task is further complicated by the fact many people don’t regularly see a doctor.

Patients need to do their part to help doctors in the relationship.

The Initial Visit When seeing a new physician, a patient should bring any medication they are taking and should be able to put in writing why they are taking the drugs.

Important Points • Get references

from family and friends.

• Ask questions. • Be upfront about

what you are looking for.

• A doctor’s staff can be a reflection on the physician.

• Payment for medical services must be considered.

Questions To Think About • What doctors

are covered by your insurance?

• What are the doctor’s qualifications?

• Do you and the doctor communicate well?

• Can this doctor provide what you require from your primary care physician?

Patients should also know any medications to which they are allergic, and the nature of the allergic reaction. They should also be prepared to give the doctor a good personal medical history.

The history should include any past or present chronic conditions, any family history of diseases such as diabetes, cancer or heart disease and a list of surgeries the patient has had.

Patients may also want to write down any questions they want to ask the physician.

Despite the difficulties, finding the right doctor can increase the length and quality of a patient’s life.


Princeton 812-386-3222

Evansville 812-867-3222

www.RMWRE.com MIDWEST REAL ESTATE

LET AN AGENT LET AN AGENT WHO KNOWS WHO KNOWS GUIDE YOU. GUIDE YOU.


A RealtorHo

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.. .. Who Is A Realtor ® ? The terms broker and REALTOR ®

are often used interchangeably, but have very different meanings. For example, not all brokers are REALTORS ® . Learn who is a REALTOR ® and the reasons why you should use one. As a prerequisite to selling real estate, a person must be licensed by the state in which they work, as a broker. Before a license is issued, minimum standards for education, examinations and experience, which are determined on a state by state basis, must be met.

After receiving a real estate license, most Brokers go on to join their local association of REALTORS ® and the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS ® , the world’s largest professional trade association. They can then call themselves REALTORS ® . The term“ REALTOR ® ” is a registered collective membership mark that identifies a real estate professional who is a member of the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS ®

and subscribes to its strict Code of Ethics (which in many cases goes beyond state law). It is the REALTOR ® who shares information on the homes they are marketing, through a Multiple Listing Service (MLS). Working with a REALTOR ®

who belongs to an MLS will give you access to the greatest number of homes.

The following are important questions to ask a potential agent:

• Are you a REALTOR ® ? • Do you have an active real estate

license in good standing? To find this information, you can check with your state’s governing agency.

• Do you belong to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS)? Multiple Listing services are cooperative information networks of REALTORS ® that provide descriptions of most of the houses for

sale in a particular region. How often do you cooperate with other local brokers on a sale?

• What have you listed or sold in this neighborhood lately?

• Do you cooperate with buyer’s brokers?

• What share of the commission will you offer a cooperating broker who finds the buyer? And in addition to the criteria mentioned above, there are a number of very important reasons you will typically prefer to work with a REALTOR ® . Among them is the fact that they adhere to the NAR’s highest standards of ethical conduct and professional training.

What A Realtor ® Will Do For You Some of the duties your REALTORS ® will perform for you include:

• Walk through the process of selling your home from beginning to end.

• Provide comparable information about the prices for which other properties have sold and analyzing data for you to gain a true comparison.

• Supply information regarding local customs and regulations you may want to consider.

• Share information about your home through the Multiple Listing service and on the Internet.

• Place advertisements for your home.

• Field phone calls. • “Qualify” potential buyers to

make sure they would be financially able to buy your property.

• Prepare and present a sales contract.

• Alert you to potential risks. • Comply with the disclosures

required by law. • Provide you with an estimate of

the closing costs you will incur. • Help you prepare for a smooth

closing of the transaction.

The Top Five Things You Should Know…

1. Look for a Broker who is a member of the local board or association of Realtors ® .

2. A Broker should explain and disclose their role and who they represent at the serious first contact.

3. The Broker should advise you on preparing your home for the market.

4. Be sure the professional shows enthusiasm, listens well, instills confidence and has a personality that is com- plementary to yours.

5. The Broker should research your property and provide data on nearby homes that have or have not sold. Selling or buying on your own is not an easy undertaking. It requires a significant amount of time to study the process, understand your obligations, and do some of the complicated work that a real estate sales associate does.

Princeton 812-386-3222

Evansville 812-867-3222 MIDWEST REAL ESTATE


A Staffing AgencyHo

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.. .. Select An Agency As You Would A Professional Service Provider . Choosing a staffing agency is a lot like choosing a professional such as a doctor or lawyer. You want an experienced professional, with the capabilities to handle your needs and the capacity to provide an effective solution to your problems quickly and as frequently as necessary.

Look for an agency with a substantial history of service to the community. This is a good indicator of experience and knowledge, as well as stability and longevity. Another indicator to look for is certification and membership in accredited professional organizations.

You should expect a qualified staff who have expertise in specific employment fields and are familiar with the types of positions and skills that are typically required for individuals who fill those positions.

A significant capability to look for is how the agency determines your needs, develops a solution and provides service. A clear and comprehensive process for discovering and defining needs and issues is an indication of the thoroughness and quality of the services that will be provided. This process will help reduce costs and provide a dead-fit solution that exactly matches your needs. The agency should be able to test applicants and candidates with standardized tests for personality, behavior, aptitude and vocation to determine their skills and skill levels and provide an assessment of how successful these prospective employees might be in a position and how well they would fit into your company. They should also be able to do pre-employment assessments which can include background checks on employment history, personal references, criminal record and drug screening.

Additionally, the ability to provide training for candidates to prepare them for a job, as well as training and development for companies to improve their productivity, can have

a positive impact on the efficiency and profitability of the client company. Safety training provided to your temporary employee workforce will make them more alert and proactive and can aid in reducing workplace in jury and lost productivity as well as contributing positive statistics to your companies safety record when it is reviewed in inspections and audits. Experience in handling worker’s compensation liability and unemployment insurance are essential as these are recurring issues in any company. Agency staff should be familiar with the governing laws and the state government agencies that oversee these issues, and the agency must have sufficient liability coverage for their temporary and contract employees otherwise the burden will fall back on the hiring company.

An agency should be able to work with you as if it were your partner. It should have the capability not only to meet your current need, but also have there sources and services available to fulfill your future needs. It is important that a staffing agency have the capacity to handle the volume of demand for their services - not only from your company, but also from the rest of the agency’s clientele. An agency that has offices in several locations is more likely to have sufficient staff and flexibility to meet the needs of your company as well as be able to serve clients with multiple locations and different levels of service needs. A local office will also have knowledge about the conditions in the local market for hiring companies and temporary workforce. A capability that is an indicator of capacity is the variety of experience and service that an agency can provide. The ability to provide a range and level of services from a single event to multiple projects and locations demonstrate the agency’s flexibility in designing solutions and providing service. The variety of experience with projects and companies can improve the efficiency of determining needs and delivering solutions, which can also reduce both time and costs in designing and implementing a

solution. A large menu of services covering a wide range of personnel and human resource functions can be another indicator that an agency has the necessary capacity to handle current volume and future demand.

What Are The Benefits To Your Company In Using A Staffing Agency? - Flexibility - you can upsize or downsize a temporary workforce to match your production requirements and defer all the costs of hiring regular full time employees until you are ready.- Capacity -you can grow your business faster by taking advantage of this flexibility gained from using an out sourced temporary workforce.- Savings -you can keep the deferred costs savings for the future or use it to support other business functions.- Focus -you dedicate your time and resources to your area of expertise - running your business.

The Top Five Things You Should Know... 1. Clear and defined

process for determining need and designing & delivering solutions

2. Wide variety of services to handle immediate requirements and fulfill future needs

3. Qualified staff with specific areas of expertise

4. Testing & assessment and training capabilities

5. Certifications and memberships in accredited professional organizations

118 N. Main Street, Princeton 812-386-7410


118 N. Main Street, Princeton | 812-386-7410

HIRING?Talk to a staffing solutions

expert today about finding the right fit for your business.

812-386-7410

Connecting Career Paths

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candidates and companies is

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A Financial AdvisorHo

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.. .. Like most people, you probably are plenty busy with your work and family. So you may not have the time and expertise needed to thoroughly understand the investment world. That’s why you may want to work with a professional investment representative. But how do you find the right one? You can start by asking the right questions. Here are a few to consider:

• Have you worked with people in my situation? — As an investor, you have your own special set of characteristics: level of assets, stage of life, long-term goals, etc. Before you sign up to work with an investment professional, you need to make sure that he or she is comfortable working with someone like you.

• What are your credentials? — Inquire about an investment professional’s qualifications. Make sure anyone you might work with has all the necessary securities licenses.

• What is your investment philosophy? — Just like investors, investment professionals have different investment personalities. Some might be naturally more aggressive, while others are conservative. But the ideal professional is someone who will provide you with guidance that’s based on your risk tolerance and investment preferences.

• How will you communicate with me? — You’ll want to make sure that your broker will communicate regularly with you. Find out when you’ll receive statements and how often you’ll meet in person to review your portfolio. Will you receive e- mail with suggestions and recommendations? Are you free to contact your broker at any time? If the broker is not available, is there someone else that he or she works with who will be familiar with your situation? It’s important to find these things out as soon as possible. Remember, you’re entrusting this

person with your financial future — so you have a right to expect open, honest and frequent communications.

• What sort of resources do you have to draw on? — Find out if a prospective investment professional has access to high- quality research and technical expertise in key areas, e.g., investments, insurance and estate planning. In some cases, a broker may be able to bring in added expertise through a relationship with another professional, such as an attorney or accountant.

• How do you get paid? — Investment professionals get paid in a variety of ways: fees, commissions, percentage of assets under management, or even a combination of these. You need to know, right from the start, how your broker is getting compensated.

• Can you provide me with references? — A lot of people are too shy to ask for references. However, a reputable financial professional will be happy to give you some names of people you can call. Of course, you shouldn’t expect a broker to provide you with the specifics of other clients’ financial transactions. But you should be free to ask about a broker’s style, responsiveness, etc. You may need to interview several candidates before you find a suitable investment professional. But it’s worth the effort. Making the right choice today can pay off far into the future.

Tax preparation can be complicated. So, if you do want some personal help, you’ll need to turn to a professional. But how can you find one? Should you just look in the Yellow Pages under “Tax Preparation?”

You could, but there are better ways. Start by asking your friends or relatives who they use. If they can recommend someone they’ve had good experience with, seek this person out, but don’t automatically hand over your 1040. Before you sign on the dotted line, ask some questions. Here are some you might want to use:

Are you accredited? A lot of people claim to be “tax preparers,” but they’re not all experts - or even professionals. Make sure the preparer you’re considering has the proper credentials, either as a tax attorney, a certified public accountant or an “Enrolled Agent” - someone who can present you before the IRS in case of an audit. Usually, all these people are required to attend continuing education classes - a big plus for you, since it means they’ll be familiar with the latest tax law changes.

Do you have experience working with people like me? This might be the most important question of all. You’ll want someone who is familiar with your general situation. For instance, if you’re self-employed, you’ll want someone who has worked with people like you, and who knows all the various deductions you can claim, the business expenses you can write off, etc.

Can I reach you when tax season is over? Tax preparers work very hard during tax season. In fact, some of them work so hard that they take several months off when the season is over, but you could have a question about your taxes at any time. Maybe you want to know the tax consequences for converting a traditional IRA to a Roth IRA. Or maybe you want to donate some appreciated stock to a charity and you want to find out how this might affect your tax picture for the year. Dozens of issues could arise outside tax season - which is why you’ll want to pick someone who’s available the year round.

Chris S. Barthel 118 S. Main Street, Princeton, IN 47670 Phone 812.386.7727 • Fax 812.386.7729

thebarthelagency.com • [email protected]


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A Used CarHo

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.. .. An Introduction To Buying A Used Car Purchasing a new vehicle is often an exciting experience, especially since buying a car is usually the second largest acquisition one will make in a lifetime, next to buying a house. You can choose exactly what you want, the car is readily available, the warranty is fresh, and obviously the car is new and free of problems. These are all reasonable points, but the option of buying used has many benefits.

Quite obviously, most consumers opt for used cars for financial reasons. Simply put, the price of a used car may be 50 percent less than the latest model even if the used model year is fairly recent.

Depreciation is the factor behind these savings, as the new vehicle drops in value the moment it is driven off the dealer’s lot. In fact, during the first year alone a car will depreciate at least 20 percent, and will continue to drop in decreasing increments every year thereafter.

The prospective used car buyer can take advantage of a vehicle that is only a few years old, but is mechanically and physically sound, still looks terrific, and has a great price tag. With the incredible savings, you can get practically the same vehicle as the latest model and save money, or a higher end model that one could normally not afford can be purchased for much less.

The latter scenario can often buy a vehicle with more performance, safety, and luxury features that you might need, but would be out of reach if purchased new.

Buying a used car through a dealer has become less of a challenge, although consumers should still educate themselves and arrive at the dealership armed with information. The used car you have in mind should be researched online for consumer reports, manufacturer recalls and blue book price. Online services such as Kellyblue- book.com or upnorthautos.com, will provide quick and easy quotes on vehicles so that you do not overpay for a used vehicle.

Other Web sites such as “CarFax Lemon Check” will provide the vehicle

history by running the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) through a thorough check.

Using these resources and comparing the information gathered to local dealer websites and used vehicle publications will give you a solid basis for making a reasonable and educated offer on a used vehicle. These guidelines also apply to private sales, although you should be aware that most of these vehicles are sold “as is” and the sale is final. Again, online research will reveal the vehicle’s history.

With the progress being made at the dealership level with used vehicles, buying a “nearly new” car has become a practical option. Combined with the numerous reputable online services providing insider information much of the uncertainty traditionally associated with used cars has been eliminated. With patience and thorough research, you can avoid paying too much and will leave a dealer or private sale with an excellent vehicle.

Whether you buy a used car from a dealer, a co-worker, or a neighbor, follow these tips to learn as much as you can about the car: — Examine the car yourself using an inspection list. You can find a checklist in many of the magazine articles, books and Internet sites that deal with buying a used car.— Talk to the previous owner if possible, especially if the present owner is unfamiliar with the car’s history.

10 Tips For Buying A Used Car 1. Check out the car’s repair record,

maintenance costs, and safety and mileage ratings in consumer magazines or online.

2. Look up the “Kelly Blue Book” value, and be prepared to negotiate the price.

3. Buying from a dealer? Look for the Buyers Guide. It’s required by a federal regulation called the Used Car Rule.

4. Make sure all oral promises are written into the Buyers Guide.

5. You have the right to see a copy of the dealer’s warranty before you buy. Warranties are included in the price of the product; service contracts cost extra and are sold separately.

6. Ask for the car’s maintenance record from the owner, dealer, or repair shop.

7. Test drive the car on hills,

highways, and in stop-and-go traffic. 8. Have the car inspected by a

mechanic you hire. 9. Keep in mind the reputation of the

dealership for honesty and integrity whenever looking at new or used vehicles.

10. If you buy a car “as is,” you’ll have to pay for anything that goes wrong after the sale. The Used Car Rule generally doesn’t apply to private sales.

Five Steps To Buying Used Cars: Step One: Decide what type of vehicle meets your needs. Step Two: Locate a used car from a local dealer’s classified ads, or through online classified services such as UpNorthAutos.com. This will provide you with available vehicles and prices in your area. Step Three: You may want to run a Carfax Record Check on the car. Before you buy, simply type in the VIN into their form and you will see if it has been stolen, in an accident, had the speedometer tampered with, number of owners, etc. This step can save you thousands of dollars. Visit Carfax.com for details. Step Four: Figure out your auto insurance costs up front. Don’t wait until the last minute to find out that insurance costs are too high. Once you have an idea of what you want you can get an insurance quote from your agent. Step Five: Protect your vehicle with an extended warranty (Service Contract). It makes good sense! An extended warranty protects you from mechanical breakdowns that can cost you an arm and a leg. It is one of the few insurance policies you can buy where you may get your money’s worth.

• The Top Five Things You Should Know ... 1. Keep in mind the reputation of the dealership for honesty and integrity whenever looking at new or used vehicles. 2. Test-drive the car under varied road conditions — on hills, highways, and in stop-and-go traffic. 3. Ask for the car’s maintenance record. If it’s not available, contact the dealership or repair shop where most of the work was done. 4. Have the car inspected by the mechanic of your choice. If you are thinking of buying a used vehicle, it’s important to shop around for the vehicle you want, beginning with a local business that you trust.

820 S. Main, Princeton 812-386-8282

theautoparke.com A Name You Can Trust!


Voted “Best of the Best” used car dealer in Gibson County.

The Auto Parke Team 812-386-8282 820 S. Main Street,

Princeton, Indiana 47670 www.theautoparke.com

A Name You Can Trust!

A Used Car

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Buying A Used Car Purchasing a new vehicle is often an exciting experience, especially since buying a car is usually the second largest acquisition one will make in a lifetime, next to buying a house. You can choose exactly what you want, the car is readily available, the warranty is fresh, and obviously the car is new and free of problems. These are all reasonable points, but the option of buying used has many benefits.

Quite obviously, most consumers opt for used cars for financial reasons. Simply put, the price of a used car may be 50 percent less than the latest model even if the used model year is fairly recent.

Depreciation is the factor behind these savings, as the new vehicle drops in value the moment it is driven off the dealer’s lot. In fact, during the first year alone a car will depreciate at least 20 percent, and will continue to drop in decreasing increments every year thereafter.

The prospective used car buyer can take advantage of a vehicle that is only a few years old, but is mechanically and physically sound, still looks terrific, and has a great price tag. With the incredible savings, you can get practically the same vehicle as the latest model and save money, or a higher end model that one could normally not afford can be purchased for much less.

The latter scenario can often buy a vehicle with more performance, safety, and luxury features that you might need, but would be out of reach if purchased new.

Buying a used car through a dealer has become less of a challenge, although consumers should still educate themselves and arrive at the dealership armed with information. The used car you have in mind should be researched online for consumer reports, manufacturer recalls and blue book price. Online services such as Kellyblue- book.com or upnorthautos.com, will provide quick and easy quotes on vehicles so that you do not overpay for a used vehicle.

Other Web sites such as “CarFax Lemon Check” will provide the vehicle

history by running the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) through a thorough check.

Using these resources and comparing the information gathered to local dealer websites and used vehicle publications will give you a solid basis for making a reasonable and educated offer on a used vehicle. These guidelines also apply to private sales, although you should be aware that most of these vehicles are sold “as is” and the sale is final. Again, online research will reveal the vehicle’s history.

With the progress being made at the dealership level with used vehicles, buying a “nearly new” car has become a practical option. Combined with the numerous reputable online services providing insider information much of the uncertainty traditionally associated with used cars has been eliminated. With patience and thorough research, you can avoid paying too much and will leave a dealer or private sale with an excellent vehicle.

Whether you buy a used car from a dealer, a co-worker, or a neighbor, follow these tips to learn as much as you can about the car: — Examine the car yourself using an inspection list. You can find a checklist in many of the magazine articles, books and Internet sites that deal with buying a used car.— Talk to the previous owner if possible, especially if the present owner is unfamiliar with the car’s history.

10 Tips For Buying A Used Car 1. Check out the car’s repair record,

maintenance costs, and safety and mileage ratings in consumer magazines or online.

2. Look up the “Kelly Blue Book” value, and be prepared to negotiate the price.

3. Buying from a dealer? Look for the Buyers Guide. It’s required by a federal regulation called the Used Car Rule.

4. Make sure all oral promises are written into the Buyers Guide.

5. You have the right to see a copy of the dealer’s warranty before you buy. Warranties are included in the price of the product; service contracts cost extra and are sold separately.

6. Ask for the car’s maintenance record from the owner, dealer, or repair shop.

7. Test drive the car on hills,

highways, and in stop-and-go traffic. 8. Have the car inspected by a

mechanic you hire. 9. Keep in mind the reputation of the

dealership for honesty and integrity whenever looking at new or used vehicles.

10. If you buy a car “as is,” you’ll have to pay for anything that goes wrong after the sale. The Used Car Rule generally doesn’t apply to private sales.

Five Steps To Buying Used Cars: Step One: Decide what type of vehicle meets your needs. Step Two: Locate a used car from a local dealer’s classified ads, or through online classified services such as UpNorthAutos.com. This will provide you with available vehicles and prices in your area. Step Three: You may want to run a Carfax Record Check on the car. Before you buy, simply type in the VIN into their form and you will see if it has been stolen, in an accident, had the speedometer tampered with, number of owners, etc. This step can save you thousands of dollars. Visit Carfax.com for details. Step Four: Figure out your auto insurance costs up front. Don’t wait until the last minute to find out that insurance costs are too high. Once you have an idea of what you want you can get an insurance quote from your agent. Step Five: Protect your vehicle with an extended warranty (Service Contract). It makes good sense! An extended warranty protects you from mechanical breakdowns that can cost you an arm and a leg. It is one of the few insurance policies you can buy where you may get your money’s worth.

• The Top Five Things You Should Know ... 1. Keep in mind the reputation of the dealership for honesty and integrity whenever looking at new or used vehicles. 2. Test-drive the car under varied road conditions — on hills, highways, and in stop-and-go traffic. 3. Ask for the car’s maintenance record. If it’s not available, contact the dealership or repair shop where most of the work was done. 4. Have the car inspected by the mechanic of your choice. If you are thinking of buying a used vehicle, it’s important to shop around for the vehicle you want, beginning with a local business that you trust.

820 S. Main, Princeton 812-386-8282

theautoparke.com A Name You Can Trust!


A Mortgage LenderHo

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.. .. When choosing a mortgage lender, the first thing one usually thinks of is getting the lowest interest rate available. While interest rates are important, there are other notable considerations, such as choosing a lender you can trust and work with.

The Best Mortgage All lenders offer a variety of home financing options. A good lender will work with you to find what best suits your individual circumstances. Most loan rates will not differ widely. However, differences in loan structure can result in large savings of costs to you. Loans may differ in such items as: Term (length of the loan), prepayment options or penalties, processing fees, no-credit fees, etc. While most mortgages are offered for terms of 15 and 30 years, other terms may be available. Keep in mind that the shorter the term, the less you will pay for your house over the life of the loan. However, the shorter the term, the higher your monthly payment will be. Your lender can help you decide which loan arrangements are best for you.

• Build a list of lenders. Talk to people you know who have bought or refinanced a home recently. Check with local real estate professionals. Or simply look in the yellow pages under “Mortgages.”

• Talk to a loan officer. Call or visit the lenders on your list. Get a feel for what it will be like to work with them, and how they approach your needs. If you’re still uncertain, ask for references from recent home buyers like yourself. Ask about their experience with a particular lender.

• Compare rates for similar loans. Among the things you’ll want to discuss with prospective lenders are the rates they offer on mortgages. But when comparing rates between lenders, be sure the rates are for comparable loans — and remember to include fees and other costs so you’re really comparing apples to apples. It is important to verify that your lender is a member of a state Mortgage Bankers Association. This is a trade association made up of members engaged, either directly or indirectly, in the mortgage lending business. Each member is bound by a strict code of ethics to encourage the highest standards of conduct in dealing with the public and other members. The purposes of the association can be summed up as follows:

• Encourage among its members sound and ethical business practices in making, marketing and servicing of real estate loans.

• Inform the members of changes in government laws affecting real estate.

• Provide education to the membership and the public on real estate matters. In a continued effort to provide consumer education and assure compliance by all members to the canon of ethics, an ethics committee is in place to provide assistance to you.

Pre-qualification Before you start house hunting, it is wise to determine your price range. This can be done through the simple process of pre qualification. To become pre-qualified, a lender or Realtor will use financial information you provide to estimate the maximum mortgage you should be able to obtain. The process doesn’t guarantee that your mortgage application will be accepted, but it does help you narrow your search to homes you can afford.

Interest Rate Protection When applying for a loan you will be given an option to “lock in” a rate, thereby guaranteeing your interest rate during the processing and underwriting of your loan. It is wise to obtain a written, rather than verbal interest rate agreement, if you choose this option. The other option is to let the rate “float, “allowing the final rate and fees to be set nearer the settlement date. This means your rate would be subject to market conditions at the time/date that your rate is locked in prior to the closing.

Loan Application Process The Loan Officer will complete the application form and collect all information necessary to begin processing the loan. Discuss the loan program and terms best suited to your financial needs with the Loan Officer. Then the Loan Processor will verify your loan application information. The Loan Processor assembles your documentation for submission and final risk approval to the Underwriter, who then forwards your package to a Closer to prepare the closing documents. If denied, a letter outlining the reasons for denial is issued to you. Loan Closing When the lender approves your loan, it is time to close. Closing the loan and transferring title to the property are the

legal procedures that are handled by a real estate attorney.

Summary As you can see in this brief outline, obtaining a mortgage can be a lengthy and complex process. Along the way, there are many opportunities for problems and misunderstandings. Select a lender in whom you can have confidence and trust, one you can depend on to help you make decisions for your long-term benefit. Taking time to research the lenders in your area just may prove to be the most valuable investment you will make towards the purchase of anew home.

The Top Five Things You Should Know ...

1. All lenders offer a variety of home financing options. They will work with you to find your best choice.

2. Most lenders use certain formulas to determine how much mortgage to offer you.

3. Not all interest rates or mortgage loan programs are equal.

4. Build a list of lenders. Talk to Builders, Realtors, Attorneys and other professionals in the industry to check a lender’s reputation for good service, as well as their level of experience and trustworthiness.

5. Members of the Mortgage Bankers Association of Georgia subscribe to a canon of ethics. Verify that your lender is a member of the local or state Mortgage Bankers Association. Keep in mind that the shorter the term, the less you will pay for your house over the life of the loan. However, the shorter the term, the higher your monthly payment will be. Your lender can help you decide which loan arrangements are best for you.


Home CareHo

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.. .. How To Choose In-home Care Many services are now available at home to help people who are disabled or who are recovering from a hospital stay, coping with chronic illness or facing the challenges of aging regain and maintain their independence. While typically associated with the elderly, home care can also significantly benefit people of all ages, including children and families. In fact, one out of every four people currently receiving home care is under age 65.

What services are available? In-home care includes both skilled home health care and non-medical private duty care. Regardless of the type of care provided, each person’s home care program must be tailored to match his or her individual needs with appropriate services. A variety of home care staff may be involved in the plan of care and some services may last longer than others.

Home Health Care Home health care incorporates professional services such as nursing care, rehabilitation therapies (physical, occupational and/or speech therapy), would care, infusion (IV) therapy and more to help individuals continue their recovery following a stay in the hospital or short-term rehabilitation facility. Home health aides may help with bathing and other personal care needs while skilled services are being provided; and additional staff may be consulted for specific needs, including medical social workers to assist with social, emotional and financial issues; and registered dietitians to provide nutritional assessments and recommendations. Medical supplies for use in the home, durable medical equipment, and in-home technology options may be available such as Telehealth, which is used to monitor daily vital signs and risk factors in patients with certain chronic illnesses.

For patients living with one or more chronic illnesses, learning about their disease–and the signs to watch for that may signal a change in their condition– are critical to keeping them out of the hospital. Home health nurses provide disease management education to empower these individuals to take active measures toward managing their own health. Home health nurses also teach people just discharged from the hospital or newly-diagnosed with a medical condition and their families how to perform nursing procedures in

order to better care for themselves between home health visits. When provided by a certified agency, home health care is covered by Medicare, Medicaid and some private insurance for eligible individuals. To qualify, the patient’s personal physician must certify in writing the need for home health services; the patient must have also had a face-to-face visit with the physician within the past 90 days or within 30 days following the order for home health services (and the visit must be in relation to the condition for which home health is being prescribed to ensure that the doctor has knowledge of the patient’s current medical status.) To receive home health services, the patient must also be homebound, meaning that he or she is not driving while services are being provided and can only leave the home infrequently, such as for worship services, medical appointments or special-occasion activities (individuals may still receive home health if they attend adult day care centers.) Home health is not 24- hour care; it is provided on an intermittent (part-time) basis, usually with a nurse visiting once or twice a week and other members of the care team visiting as necessary. Medicare does not pay for meals delivered to the home or homemaking assistance; and personal care is covered only if there is another skilled need at the same time.

While home health care is not designed to be long-term care, it can often be the bridge between hospital or facility care and home that helps people heal, encourages active participation in their own care and reduces the risk for emergency room visits and additional hospital stays. Medicare recognizes home health as “care given in the home for illness or injury that is usually less expensive, more convenient and just as effective as care you get in a hospital or skilled nursing facility.” For additional information, please visit www.medicare.gov.

Private Duty Care The skills of a nurse or other health professional are not always necessary to keep someone living safely and independently at home. Private duty care (also known as non-medical or custodial care) provides companionship and assistance with everyday living tasks and can often give family caregivers a break from the challenging responsibility of caring for a loved one. Under the guidance of a doctor’s order, private duty care may also include

some routine nursing services that are not covered by Medicare, Medicaid or private insurance, such as in-home foot care, injections, blood draws and extended care by a private duty nurse following a surgical procedure or hospital stay.

Non-medical home care agencies offer a variety of services, including:

• Light housekeeping, grocery shopping and other errands, meal preparation, laundry, pet care and more.

• Companion care for when the customer needs a reassuring presence, enjoys company or wishes to have an escort to medical appointments, activities or events.

• Personal care assistance with bathing, dressing, grooming, mobility, toileting and continence care, and medication reminders.

• Respite care to help other caregivers maintain their physical and emotional health; or when they must be away from their loved one for a short or extended period of time.

• In-home monitoring, including medication dispensers and medical alert/personal response systems to promote safety and quick response in case of a fall or other emergency.

Private duty care is typically provided on an hourly basis, with some agencies requiring a specific minimum number of consecutive hours. Medicare, Medicaid and most commercial insurance do not currently cover private duty services; however, if self-pay is not feasible, coverage may be available through long-term care insurance policies, state-funded programs or Veterans’ benefits. Private duty care is customer-directed, meaning that the client and/or family choose what services are provided, how often they occur and when. State-licensed home care agencies–which have been required in Indiana since 2007–also provide a registered nurse to conduct an initial assessment and then periodic assessments during the course of care to ensure that private duty clients’ needs are being met appropriately.

To reduce the potential for physical, emotional and financial abuse by an in- home caregiver, the Home Care Association of America recommends asking all potential providers several questions. To learn more, please visit their website at www.hcaoa.org.

812-385-8857 800-659-4862



L

Live Well… Wherever You

Call Home. If you are recovering from a hospital stay, living with chronic

illness or facing the challenges of aging, Deaconess VNA Plus

Home Care can help you regain and maintain your independence: Home Health Care

skilled nursing, therapies, wound care,

infusion therapy, home health aides, medical social work, registered dietitian Private Duty Care

housekeeping, companionship, personal care,

respite, medical alert service, personal

medication dispenser

Medicare/Medicaid Certified Not-for-Profit Serving Our Communities Since 1888

Don’t wait another day to live well… call our Princeton office today!

812-385-8857 800-659-4862



A Rehab FacilityHo

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.. .. A hospital is a hospital is a hospital, right? Afraid not. Health care terminology doesn’t help matters: acute care, sub acute, skilled nursing, continuums, inpatient, outpatient. What do you do when the doctor says you need rehabilitation?

You’re Not Alone Most people don’t think about rehabilitation until they need it. Even then, it’s often a physician or other health care professional who recommends rehab to continue the person’s recovery after a disabling illness or injury.

It’s the goal of a rehabilitation facility to help people resume the ordinary activities of daily life that they enjoyed before: earning a living, raising a family, running a home, pursuing a hobby, playing sports. A good rehabilitation program offers therapy and education to avoid further injury.

It is important to know the difference among facilities. There is a difference, for example, between a retirement home that has rehabilitation professionals on staff and a dedicated rehabilitation hospital. Facilities that have rehabilitation as their sole objective, such as rehabilitation hospital or center, are likely to have the most highly trained therapists, medical supervision by physiatrists (doctors who specialize in physical medicine and rehabilitation), nurses and psychologists. These centers usually offer innovative therapeutic programs, state-of-the-art technology and facilities and education programs for patients and health care professionals.

The type of rehabilitation facility you choose depends on the kind of illness or injury experienced and its severity. There are two main types of rehabilitation facilities:

• Outpatient facilities where patients come and go for treatment on a daily or weekly basis

• Inpatient (or acute care) facilities where patients stay for days, weeks or months, depending on their condition.

Outpatient Care Outpatient activities may stand on their own or be part of a comprehensive rehabilitation hospital. Common programs cover therapy for:

• sports injuries • hand rehabilitation • stroke and other neurological injuries • speech-language or cognitive deficits

• orthopedic rehabilitation (including osteoporosisor arthritis)

• industrial rehabilitation and return-to- work services

While most outpatient facilities offer some or all of these services, you can tell the difference between an excellent facility and an ordinary or inadequate one by asking the following questions:

1. Does the center offer a comprehensive range of services? Look for trained staff in physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech and cognitive therapy, industrial rehabilitation and vocational counseling. Also ask about counseling and support services that can be crucial in the rehab process.

2. Does the facility emphasize prevention of injury? Many common injuries, such as carpal tunnel syndrome, will recur without a change in the way people use their hands.

3. Is the facility well-respected and well-connected in the medical community? Does it have a medical director who specializes in rehabilitation? Does it have a strong network of consulting physicians and other health care professionals to call upon if necessary?

4. Is the site easily accessible by car or public transportation? Are the buildings easily accessible for people with disabilities?

5. Does the facility accept the insurance or managed care plan you use? A good facility will have an adviser who can help you make financial and insurance arrangements for your therapy.

Inpatient Or Acute Care Facilities Most people who are admitted to an inpatient rehabilitation facility are recovering from injuries or illnesses that severely impair their physical functioning or understanding. These include:

• strokes • spinal cord injuries • traumatic brain injuries • chronic pulmonary problems • neurological disorders • other debilitating conditions Consider

the following factors in selecting an inpatient rehabilitation facility:

1. Does it have a physical entity or “campus” equipped with the best in medical care, technology and facilities?

2. Does the facility provide 24-hour nursing care?

3. Are its services well integrated and provided by multidisciplinary teams?

4. Is it accessible to your family and friends? Is it located near highways?

Other Guidelines • Certain services should be available daily or twice daily: occupational, physical and speech/language/hearingtherapies as well as social work and psychological counseling. Other important services are recreational therapy, vocational training and special education services.

• Look past the time of discharge. Does the discharge staff help plan your home care and the support services needed once you return home? Are there vocational, psychological and social work professionals available to help patients adjust to life outside of the facility? Does the facility offer practical assistance, such as programs to help patients drive again after their illness or injury? Ideally, an inpatient rehabilitation hospital will also offer outpatient rehabilitation services that provide continuity of care after discharge.

• Look for a continuum of care from the time of your admission past the time of discharge. Anyone who is disabled will face a long period of adjustment and will need services that are not anticipated. Find a facility that will help you prepare for and fulfill those needs.

What Is Carf? The Commission of Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) is a private, not-for-profit organization that accredits rehabilitation programs with the following services: • adult day services • assisted living • behavioral health services • medical rehabilitation CARF helps to promote and assure standards of quality for these programs and focuses on optimal outcomes for persons served.

Transcendent Healthcare Of Owensville, LLC

Hwy 165 W, Owensville, IN 812-729-7901

5. Does it have a caring and restful atmosphere?

6. Does it offer more than the basics in terms of facilities and services? For example: Does it have a pool for aquatic therapy or a sports program for people with disabilities?


Locally Owned Personalized Healthcare is closer than you think

812.549.7324Transcendent Healthcare

of Owensville, LLC

Banker,Investor,National

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Princeton

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.. .. Looking for ways to save energy in your home, keep safety at the forefront for your family and determine the best windows for your house?

Here are some tips from building and renovation experts:

Energy Saving Tips: Seek out Energy Star-compliant products to lower energy bills in the home. Windows meeting the U.S. government’s Energy Star guidelines can help reduce the heat loss and heat gain in a home, thus making the home more comfortable and lowering energy bills.

When it’s time to replace your windows, ask about insulating glass (I.G.) units made up of two or more panes of glass separated by a spacer system. Argon or Krypton gas (harmless and odorless gasses found in the atmosphere) can be sealed inside the I.G. unit to help reduce the transfer of heat and cold, saving you energy dollars.

Window Replacement Tips: If your windows are more than 20 years old, it’s time to give them a good examination. Look for air gaps around windows, loose caulking and condensation build- up — all signals that it may be time to replace the units.

• Spend some time opening and closing your windows in different weather. Do they stick when it’s humid? Are there any “rough spots” you can’t get the window past? These could be indications that the windows have outlived

their functionality in the home and it’s time to consider replacing them.

• Looking for more privacy in your home? When it’s time to replace windows, consider operable or fixed obscure acrylic block windows. They offer the same thermal dynamics as traditional replacement windows and allow light in the home while obstructing the view!

• Love natural sunlight, but hate how it fades your carpeting and furnishings? When it’s time to replace your windows, select Low E glass and advanced glass packages. In layman’s terms, these special glasses reflect the harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays from the windows, so the rays don’t enter the home.

Safety Tips: It’s good to remember that window screens are created solely to keep insects out of the home. They won’t support children or pets from leaning on them. Also, keep

furniture and anything else children can climb away from windows to prevent accidents.

• When opening windows for ventilation, consider opening windows that children cannot reach, like the top portion of a Double Hung window. Some manufacturers offer ventilation locks that allow a window to be partially opened for fresh air while remaining securely in place.

Important Points • Examine your current windows in a variety of weather situations to determine if you need to make replacements. • Consider alternatives when installing new windows. There are a variety of products available to increase privacy. • Certain types of glass allow for brightness while reducing the damaging effects of sunlight.

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DID YOUKNOW?

Physical Therapists arehealthcare providers whospecialize in muscu-loskeletal dysfunction.Their primary scope ofpractice is treatment ofproblems which preventpeople from moving andfunctioning in a pain freemanner during ther dailyactivities. Physicaltherapists work withpeople throughout thelifespan and in a varietyof settings. Today’sphysical therapist is awell educated individual.All of the physicaltherapy programs in theUnited States culminatewith a Master’s Degreeor even a clinicaldoctorate (DTP). Theymust pass a licensingexam before beingallowed to practice.

Outpatient physicaltherapy is a commontreatment option forpeople suffering from avariety of ailments.Treatment of low back orneck pain, shoulder andknee dysfunction, footproblems, post-surgicalconditions, stroke reha-bilitation, headaches, andTMJ dysfunction are justa few examples of themany reasons a personmight go to a physicaltherapist. For the mostpart, when someone goesto physical therapy theydo so after being referredto therapy by a physician.

Choosing a Physical TherapistA visit to the physical therapist is

similar to seeing a physician in that thefirst visit consists of an evaluation whichresults in treatment for your condition. Thephysical therapist however doesn't need torely on tests such as blood-work, x~rays,MRIs, or other diagnostic tests. The PTwill measure the amount of motion in thegiven area (back, knee, shoulder, etc.), thestrength or tightness of certain affectedmuscles, and will palpate the affectedtissues for their condition. Based uponfindings from these various aspects of theevaluation, the therapist will explain to theclient their conclusions and what physicaltherapy can do to resolve the condition.The therapist and client set goals of whatshould be accomplished in therapy andthen treatment begins.

The client should expect a minimum ofsome form of exercise to be prescribed forhis or her condition. In conjunction, therewill usually be some form of hands-ontreatment (manual therapy). Some type ofpain relieving modalities are often usedincluding hot packs, different types ofelectrical stimulation, and ultrasound (adeep heating agent) to help the client meettheir goals. Treatment might last for anaverage of 9-12 visits. More in somecases, less in others.

Choosing a physical therapist isn't ahard task. It’s much like choosing aphysician: ask around. Check with friendsand family and see what physical therapistor physical therapy clinic they've used inthe past. Were they happy with theirprogress with that therapist? Did they getbetter'? What types of treatments did thatperson receive'? Other things to keep inmind: Anyone providing "physicaltherapy" should be a licensed physicaltherapist. Their license should be displayedsomewhere in the clinic in which theywork for public viewing.

Does that particular physical therapy

clinic you are considering accept yourinsurance? Call the clinic and ask.

One thing to consider is whether thattherapist is a member of the AmericanPhysical Therapy Association (APTA).PT's who are members of the APTA arebound by the Association's code of ethicsto provide competent and quality care.

Find out if you will see the samephysical therapist on each visit or will yoube passed around from therapist totherapist. Consistency of treatment is ofgreat value in rehabilitation.

Does a physical therapist perform yourtreatment or is it a tech who has only hadon the job training? It’s quite common fora therapist to have a technician assist incertain aspects of treatment but it is unac-ceptable to have the tech perform yourwhole treatment.

Does that therapist have their ownclinic? A PT in private practice has moreof a vested interest in your recovery than atherapist at a local hospital or one whoworks for a large corporation. Yourprogress in rehab reflects on their clinic

reputation as a therapist, and theirregard with local physicians.

Does the therapist have any advancedcertifications~ Examples include being aclinical specialist in orthopedics orpediatrics among others. This is noted withan OCS or PCS after their PT initials.These certifications denote experience intheir particular field and proof that theyhave completed the rigorous requirementsof the American Board of PhysicalTherapy Specialties (ABPTS). Other certi-fications not governed by the ABPTSinclude McKenzie Certification for backtreatment, hand therapy certifications,manual therapy certifications, or certifiedstrength and conditioning specialties.

Hannah spent 8 weeks in physical therapy at a large institution and saw no improvement with her injury. Frustrated, she started asking people who did the best physical therapy in the region and soon, she kept hearing the same answer. After further research she made the decision to try them out (the other organization used up all of her physical therapy visits and she was going to have to pay this out of pocket). On her first visit she was amazed at the excellence in customer service, and then she was pleased that after only her 2nd visit she was seeing improvement. Hannah told her therapist, “they never did any of the treatment you are doing!” Fortunately for Hannah she also was able to get back to where she wanted to be after only 4 visits.

Choosing the right physical therapist can determine how successful your recovery will be from your injury. Your choice may determine whether you return to your desired state or continue to suffer from pain and abnormal movement patterns. The right choice will also save you money. While physical and occupational therapists focus on non-surgical treatment of muscle and joint pain, they also may receive training in other sub-specialties including: lymphedema, certified hand therapy vestibular therapy, pelvic floor rehab and foot orthotics.

At one time physical therapy relied heavily on “modalities” like ice packs, heat, ultrasound and different types of electrical stimulation. Unfortunately, in some institutions, much to the patient’s detriment, you will still see a heavy reliance on these modalities Physical therapy has evolved considerably in the last few years and leading edge therapy relies on strong evaluation skills – determining what is causing an injury and then focusing on what will be the best treatment. Manual therapy and retraining of muscles to work appropriately and in an orderly fashion through the use are key to getting you back to where you want to be.

In summary your experience in therapy can often be completed in 7 visits or less (depending on your injury) and you will receive a thorough evaluation, and treatment pathway guiding you to normal movement

function. Don’t allow managed care to force you to use a provider that is not your choice.

Choosing a physical therapist isn’t a hard task. It’s much like choosing a physician: ask around. Check with friends and family and see what physical therapist or physical therapy clinic they’ve used in the past. Were they happy with their progress with that therapist? Did they get better’? What types of treatments did that person receive’? Other things to keep in mind: Anyone providing “physical therapy” should be a licensed physical thearpist. Their license should be displayed somewhere in the clinic in which they work for public viewing.

Does that particular physical therapy clinic you are considering accept your insurance? Call the clinic and ask.

One thing to consider is whether that therapist is a member of the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA). PT’s who are members of the APTA are bound by the Association’s code of ethics to provide competent and quality care.

Find out if you will see the same physical therapist on each visit or will your be passed around from therapist to therapist. Consistency of treatment is of great value in rehabilitation.

Does a physical therapist perform your treatment or is it a tech who has only had on the job training? It’s quite common for a therapist to have a technician assist in certain aspects of treatment but it is unacceptable to have the tech perform your whole treatment.

Does that therapist have their own clinic? A PT in private practice has more of a vested interest in your recovery than a therapist at a local hospital or one who works for a large corporation. Your progress in rehab reflects on their clinic reputation as a therapist, and their regard with local physicians.

Does the therapist have any advanced certifications –examples include certified hand therapy, pelvic floor rehab, lymphedema, vestibular therapy and foot orthotics. These certifications denote experience in a particular field.

All of the physical therapy programs in the United States culminate with a Doctorate in Physical Therapy (DPT). Physical and Occupational Therapists must pass a licensing exam before being allowed to practice.

A Physical Therapist For A Complete Listing Of Locations: Visit www.prorehab.com

How

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Lawn EquipmentHo

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.. .. With the American Dream of home ownership, 1.5 kids and a couple of cats,comes, inevitably, a lawn. The question is: what kind of equipment do you need to properly care and tend for your own slice of heaven? Here are some ideas:

Size Matters Lawn mowers come in all shapes, sizes and ranges of power. The most frequent mistakes homeowners make is getting something too large or too small for their needs. While there are no handy formulas for figuring this out, there are a few tips: While riding lawn mowers are cool and now frequently come with cup holders (an innovation way too long incoming), some lawns are just too small to comfortably operate a lawn tractor. For these yards, the best choice is a good push mower. A general rule of thumb is that a yard that can be comfortably mowed with a push mower in 45 minutes or less is too small for a rider. Yards of a half-acre or more likely would benefit from a lawn tractor. These range in horsepower, attachments and ease of use. A qualified dealer or retailer will be happy to walk you through the steps of determining your specific needs. You should be prepared to tell the dealer how big your yard is, whether you intend to use the tractor for other tasks, such as plowing the garden or grading the driveway, how often you intend to mow and so on.

Various Tools The range of available equipment for lawn and yard needs is dizzying. To wade through the clutter, ask yourself a series of questions: 1 . What do I want to accomplish? Do I have enough border, for instance,to justify a machine to cut the borders out periodically,or would I be better served with a simple blade shovel? 2. How much am I willing to spend on single-use machines?3. Am I worried about disturbing the neighbors at 6 a.m. on Sunday with a noisy chainsaw, or should I go electric?

Repair And Maintenance Just like a car, many yard tools and tractors come with factory warranties. Ask for the specifics before purchasing. Also ask what happens if the piece of equipment breaks down. Will the dealer pick it up, or do you have to haul it there?Be sure to keep track of any owner manuals (a plastic bag hanging on a nail in the garage is a good investment). The manuals often list replacement parts, and have a complete maintenance schedule.

Your Yard And Clean Air The federal government anticipates that regulations now being developed will bring cleaner lawn and garden equipment to market within a few years. Meanwhile, consumers can make a difference by adopting practices that will help protect the environment now and in the future: Avoid spilling gasoline Preventing spills and overfills is an easy and effective way for power equipment owners to prevent pollution. Even small gasoline spills evaporate and pollute the air. Use a gasoline container you can handle easily and hold securely. Pour slowly and smoothly. Use a funnel,or a spout with an automatic stop device to prevent overfilling the gas tank. Keep the cap or spout and the vent hole on gasoline containers closed tightly. Transport and store gasoline and power equipment out of direct sunlight in a cool,dry place. Use caution when pumping gasoline into a container at the gas station.

Maintain Your Equipment Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for maintenance. Change oil and clean or replace air filters regularly. Use the proper fuel/oil mixture in two-stroke equipment. Get periodic tune-ups, maintain sharp mower blades, and keep the underside of the deck clean. Take time to winterize equipment each fall.

Consider Cleaner Options Ask your dealer about the new, cleaner gasoline equipment entering

the marketplace. Propane and solar options are also available for some types of equipment. Electric equipment is cleaner than equipment powered by gasoline engines. Electrically powered lawn and garden tools produce essentially no pollution from exhaust emissions or through fuel evaporation. However, generating the power to run electric equipment does produce pollution.

Use Manual Tools Tools that don’t require electric or gasoline engines are especially handy for small yards or small jobs. There are hand tools available that will meet a wide variety of lawn and garden needs, like lightweight,quiet, easy-to-use reel push mowers that generate no emissions.

Reduce Mowing Time Use low-maintenance turf grasses or grass/flower seed mixtures that grow slowly and require less mowing. Check with your local agricultural extension service or lawn and garden center about what is appropriate for your region. Decrease lawn area. Plant additional trees and shrubs to reduce the energy costs of heating and cooling your house and to provide landscaping for wildlife. Native wildflowers and plants require little to no maintenance after planting.

IMPORTANT POINTS • Select proper equipment for your circumstances. • Keep equipment maintained properly. • Compare warranties • Who will do service on equipment?

Hwy. 41S Princeton, IN 812-386-6580

Mon - Fri: 7:30-4:30 • Sat: 7:30-12:00 [email protected] www.kieselent.com


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Lawn Equipment

How

To C

hoos

e...

How

To C

hoos

e... .. With the American Dream of home

ownership, 1.5 kids and a couple of cats,comes, inevitably, a lawn. The question is: what kind of equipment do you need to properly care and tend for your own slice of heaven? Here are some ideas:

Size Matters Lawn mowers come in all shapes, sizes and ranges of power. The most frequent mistakes homeowners make is getting something too large or too small for their needs. While there are no handy formulas for figuring this out, there are a few tips: While riding lawn mowers are cool and now frequently come with cup holders (an innovation way too long incoming), some lawns are just too small to comfortably operate a lawn tractor. For these yards, the best choice is a good push mower. A general rule of thumb is that a yard that can be comfortably mowed with a push mower in 45 minutes or less is too small for a rider. Yards of a half-acre or more likely would benefit from a lawn tractor. These range in horsepower, attachments and ease of use. A qualified dealer or retailer will be happy to walk you through the steps of determining your specific needs. You should be prepared to tell the dealer how big your yard is, whether you intend to use the tractor for other tasks, such as plowing the garden or grading the driveway, how often you intend to mow and so on.

Various Tools The range of available equipment for lawn and yard needs is dizzying. To wade through the clutter, ask yourself a series of questions: 1 . What do I want to accomplish? Do I have enough border, for instance,to justify a machine to cut the borders out periodically,or would I be better served with a simple blade shovel? 2. How much am I willing to spend on single-use machines?3. Am I worried about disturbing the neighbors at 6 a.m. on Sunday with a noisy chainsaw, or should I go electric?

Repair And Maintenance Just like a car, many yard tools and tractors come with factory warranties. Ask for the specifics before purchasing. Also ask what happens if the piece of equipment breaks down. Will the dealer pick it up, or do you have to haul it there?Be sure to keep track of any owner manuals (a plastic bag hanging on a nail in the garage is a good investment). The manuals often list replacement parts, and have a complete maintenance schedule.

Your Yard And Clean Air The federal government anticipates that regulations now being developed will bring cleaner lawn and garden equipment to market within a few years. Meanwhile, consumers can make a difference by adopting practices that will help protect the environment now and in the future: Avoid spilling gasoline Preventing spills and overfills is an easy and effective way for power equipment owners to prevent pollution. Even small gasoline spills evaporate and pollute the air. Use a gasoline container you can handle easily and hold securely. Pour slowly and smoothly. Use a funnel,or a spout with an automatic stop device to prevent overfilling the gas tank. Keep the cap or spout and the vent hole on gasoline containers closed tightly. Transport and store gasoline and power equipment out of direct sunlight in a cool,dry place. Use caution when pumping gasoline into a container at the gas station.

Maintain Your Equipment Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for maintenance. Change oil and clean or replace air filters regularly. Use the proper fuel/oil mixture in two-stroke equipment. Get periodic tune-ups, maintain sharp mower blades, and keep the underside of the deck clean. Take time to winterize equipment each fall.

Consider Cleaner Options Ask your dealer about the new, cleaner gasoline equipment entering

the marketplace. Propane and solar options are also available for some types of equipment. Electric equipment is cleaner than equipment powered by gasoline engines. Electrically powered lawn and garden tools produce essentially no pollution from exhaust emissions or through fuel evaporation. However, generating the power to run electric equipment does produce pollution.

Use Manual Tools Tools that don’t require electric or gasoline engines are especially handy for small yards or small jobs. There are hand tools available that will meet a wide variety of lawn and garden needs, like lightweight,quiet, easy-to-use reel push mowers that generate no emissions.

Reduce Mowing Time Use low-maintenance turf grasses or grass/flower seed mixtures that grow slowly and require less mowing. Check with your local agricultural extension service or lawn and garden center about what is appropriate for your region. Decrease lawn area. Plant additional trees and shrubs to reduce the energy costs of heating and cooling your house and to provide landscaping for wildlife. Native wildflowers and plants require little to no maintenance after planting.

IMPORTANT POINTS • Select proper equipment for your circumstances. • Keep equipment maintained properly. • Compare warranties • Who will do service on equipment?

Hwy. 41S Princeton, IN 812-386-6580

Mon - Fri: 7:30-4:30 • Sat: 7:30-12:00 [email protected] www.kieselent.com


A HospitalHo

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.. .. Just as you do not make an emergency plan for a fire when the fire occurs, you should not make your choice of health care facility when you are in crisis. The most important criteria when choosing a hospital will come from advance research. Researching your area hospitals will create an informed consumer who can make decisions based on the facility’s best overall care and specialized services to fit their needs.

There are several avenues one can take to find a hospital that meets their particular needs. The first avenue would be to look at hospital websites to research each hospital’s services and accreditation. Accreditation is linked directly to quality of patient care, quality of facility, and quality of staff and physicians. The primary health care accreditation service is The Joint Commission (TJC), a not- for-profit, independent organization founded in 1951 that reviews safety and quality of the nation’s health care facilities through a voluntary but rigorous accreditation process. This process is ongoing to ensure that the hospital is staying in compliance with ever changing regulations. There are more than 20,000 health care organizations accredited by the Joint Commission each year and information about the Joint Commission or the accredited hospitals can be found on their website at www.jointcommission.org. In addition to hospital accreditation, you can also look at various service line accreditations that facilities may hold to show quality services. Hospitals can seek voluntary accreditation in services such as

radiology, sleep diagnostics, diabetes care, heart care, trauma care and many others.

You can also compare hospital quality on the Internet using Medicare’s Hospital Compare web tool at http://www.medicare.gov/ hospitalcompare

What Are Your Personal Needs? Once you know which hospital’s offer the high quality services that you’ll need, you need to consider your personal needs. Do you want a hospital near family and friends? Does the hospital have convenient visiting hours and other rules that are important to you. Does the hospital offer convenient follow-up care if necessary following a hospital stay? You also need to check with your health plan to ensure that they cover services provided by the hospitals that you are researching.

You should also discuss your hospital options with family, friends and your doctor, and gather input from them.

Visit The Hospital Before You Need It Visiting a hospital is an important step in making an informed decision about future treatment for you or your family. At the initial visit with a physician or customer service representative, always ask specific questions. This will help in the flow of information and also may trigger any other concerns you may have about a facility.

Look at the core values and philosophies of the hospital, read their mission statement and check to

5 Things You Should Know: • Is the hospital

accredited by The Joint Commission and/or other accrediting organizations?

• What are their patient satisfaction indicators or scores?

• Does the hospital meet my personal needs?

• What is the experience, training and certification of the physicians and staff?

• What are the core values that guide the hospital and its employees?

see if they can deliver what they promise. Look around and make note of how the staff interacts with each other and their patients. Do they exude the compassion, professionalism and care that you would hope to receive? If you do your homework now, you and your family will make decisions that maximize your experience in a hospital when the need arises.


A Meaningful Service With CremationHo

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.. .. The reasons for preferring cremation are varied. For some, it seems a more natural process than burial. Others have environmental concerns with burial. Still others are not sure why they feel more comfortable with cremation but are interested in learning more. This article is for all of you.

Most funeral homes provide some type of cremation service, but some specialize in providing cremation services. The peace of mind of knowing a funeral home is prepared and experienced to provide the services you require is well worth the effort required to become educated and make an informed choice.

Because it is important to be informed, many people choose to make their own funeral decisions in advance. Making pre-arrangements with your selected funeral home will help ensure your wishes will be carried out following death. It also spares your family from the burden of making decisions during the emotional time after a death.

Many people wonder whether cremation is consistent with their religious beliefs. There was a time when some religions disapproved of the cremation process. Today, most permit cremation. It is a good idea to discuss your concerns with your clergy, as individual congregations may differ from nationwide or worldwide church policies.

Another reason for preferring cremation is the many options available for services and final disposition. In fact, cremation offers more options than does traditional burial. For example, choices are available in the type and scheduling of gathering or celebration, the final disposition of cremated remains, and ways to remember or “memorialize” the deceased.

Immediate Cremation Those preferring to have no services or gathering can arrange for removal of the deceased and immediate cremation. You will want to review cost, administrative requirements, and other details with your funeral director. Many families who choose direct cremation later regret the decision because it ignores their need for closure. Participating in arrangements, viewing the body, and meeting in a formal or informal setting with supportive friends and family are meaningful parts of a ritual, like baptisms and weddings, that help us understand and cope with loss.

Cremation Followed By Memorial Service: Following either private or public viewing, the body is cremated. A service or gathering is held at a place of the family’ s choosing to commemorate the life of the deceased. Eulogies, readings, music and the sharing of photos, videos, and personal collections and hobbies are often part of the gathering. The gathering is an opportunity for those who cared about the deceased to remember them in a special way and to say good-bye.

Funeral Service Followed By Cremation Probably the greatest misconception about cremation is that there can be no funeral. Many people choosing cremation have a traditional funeral service, followed by cremation. The funeral service may be conducted in a funeral home, church, or any other appropriate setting. Clergy may conduct the service, but this is not required. Some will prefer a less formal format of sharing memories and feelings. The funeral service is personalized by including things to help those attending to better know and remember the deceased, such as flowers, photos, videos and music.

Choosing a casket, urn, burial vault, and stationery items that reflect the loved one’ s life complements these items. Funeral directors who specialize in cremation will have many examples for you to look at and choose from.

Anyone who has ever tried to write a family history knows it can take a little time. Planning to personalize a memorial service or funeral service is much the same. The plan may consist of simple, brief notes or a detailed set of directions.

With so many choices and options, the value of preplanning becomes evident. No one better understands your wishes than you. Meeting with a funeral director who specializes in cremation services allows you to collect information on options and costs, and to record your wishes for your family to refer to later. You may even want to pre-pay your final expenses as a way of relieving your family from this burden and saving money.

There are many good reasons why thoughtful families are beginning to strongly consider cremation. Let a licensed Funeral Director with experience and special interest in cremation make suggestions as to your options and choices.

The Top Four Things You Should Know... 1. Become educated and make an informed choice. 2. Find a funeral home that is prepared and experienced to provide the services you require. 3. Make decisions and pre- arrangements in advance. 4. Pre-pay your final expenses as a way of relieving your family from this burden and saving money.

Doyle Funeral Home 520 S. Main St., Princeton, IN

812-385-4334 doylefuneralhomeprinceton.com

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520 S. Main St., Princeton, IN • 812-385-4334 doylefuneralhomeprinceton.com

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