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Monday, June 1, 2009

Shirl Mendonca: Golden opportunities in those senior years




ENLARGE
California has more seniors than any other state in the nation.

And while the number of seniors keeps growing, so do their legal rights and the programs designed to help them.

This is important to the Lake Wildwood community. With a tremendous array of amenities and outdoor activities, we have become a retirement destination for many active seniors and early retirees who want to get a jump start on their “golden years.”

David Finch, a new Lake Wildwood resident, is a mediation attorney and a member of the State Bar of California. He recently gave me a copy of a new publication put out by the bar with funding from the California Bar Foundation “to educate seniors about their rights and the legal challenges they may face.”

This publication, “Seniors and the Law, a Guide for Maturing Californians,” is full of information to help seniors with the many laws, benefits and special services available to help them stay in charge of their lives.

Did you know that in many counties, if you are over age 55, you can downsize and keep the lower tax basis of your old home? Did you know that if you receive a newspaper flyer inviting you to an investment or trust seminar by an out-of-town company, there is a way to check out the company before you attend and make a “rushed” decision? Did you know that when you reach age 70, you need to renew your drivers license in person and that the DMV can request a doctor’s approval?

In addition to these issues, the guide also includes a broad range of resource information on topics such as making ends meet, choosing where to live, dealing with debt, finding a caregiver, getting legal help, elder abuse, identity theft, avoiding consumer scams etc. There is a resource page with an extensive list of contacts for senior related issues.

Dave has generously obtained 200 copies of this publication for Lake Wildwood and Penn Valley residents. You can pick up your free copy at The Wildwood Independent, Pleasant Valley Pharmacy, or the Penn Valley Library. You can also request a copy at seniors@calbar.ca.gov.

Citizen of the Year

The Community Relations Committee is now accepting nominations for LWW Citizen of the Year.

This is the time to recognize and honor those special LWW neighbors who give so much of themselves for the betterment of the community and beyond. It is truly an honor to be nominated and to receive this award.

Your help is needed to identify these outstanding individuals. Nomination forms are available in the administration office and on the LWW Web site. You have until Friday, June 19, to submit your completed nomination form in a sealed envelope. The recipient will be announced at the annual meeting and picnic in Commodore Park on July 25.

Got a tip about someone or something in Lake Wildwood? Contact Shirl Mendonca at shirlmendonca@gv.net.


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