ABR (Accredited Buyer's Representative)
Is a designation for real estate buyer agents who focus on working directly with buyer-clients.
Vehicle equipped with a lift or ramp to transport individuals who use wheel-chairs, scooters, and other mobility devices.
An accountant is a practitioner of accounting, which is the measurement, disclosure or provision of assurance about financial information that helps managers, investors, tax authorities and others make resource allocation decisions.
See: Retirement Community
Day Activity and Health Services (DAHS) Program.
Licensed Day Activity and Health Services facilities provide daytime services, up to 10 hours per day, Monday through Friday, to people residing in the community. Services address physical, mental, medical and social needs. People may attend up to five days per week, depending on their eligibility.
Services:
• Nursing and personal care
• Physical rehabilitation
• Noon meal and snacks
• Social, educational and recreational activities
• Transportation
How to apply for services: Contact your local DADS office.
Advance Directives are documents allowing you to make legally valid decisions about your future medical treatment and care, if you are unable to make these decisions or choices for yourself. The Medical Power of Attorney names someone to make decisions about your medical treatment for you. These documents are signed in advance, and your directives take effect only when you can no longer make your own health care decisions.
Texas State law recognizes four types of Advance Directive:
1. A Directive to Physicians and Family or Surrogates (Living Will)
2. A Medical Power of Attorney
3. A Mental Health Treatment Declaration
4. An Out-of-Hospital Do Not Resuscitate Order
A loss of ability to recognize objects, persons, sounds, shapes, or smells while the specific sense is not defective nor is there any significant memory loss.
A medical practitioner specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of allergies.
Make (suffering, deficiency, or a problem) less severe.
The most common form of dementia, is a progressive and fatal brain disease. Alzheimer's destroys brain cells, causing problems with memory, thinking and behavior severe enough to affect work, lifelong hobbies or social life. Alzheimer’s gets worse over time, and has no current cure, but treatments for symptoms, combined with the right services and support, can make life better for the millions of Americans living with Alzheimer’s.
Able to walk; not bedridden: ambulatory patients.
Relating to patients who are able to walk: an ambulatory care facility.
Loss or impairment of the power to use or comprehend words, usually resulting from brain damage.
1. The act of estimating or judging the nature or value of something or someone.
2. An estimate of value, as for sale, assessment, or taxation; valuation.
Housing for the elderly or disabled that provides nursing care, housekeeping, and prepared meals as needed.
In Texas an assisted living facility must be licensed by the Texas Department of Aging and Disability Services(DADS) as a Type A, Type B, Type C, or Type E facility. A facility's licensure type is based on the capability of the residents to evacuate the facility or the types of services the facility provides, or both.
In a Type A facility, a resident:
(1) must be physically and mentally capable of evacuating the facility without physical assistance from staff, which may include an individual who is mobile, although non-ambulatory, such as an individual who uses a wheelchair or an electric cart, and has the capacity to transfer and evacuate himself or herself in an emergency;
(2) does not require routine attendance during nighttime sleeping hours; and
(3) must be capable of following directions under emergency conditions.
(4) must be able to demonstrate to DADS that they can meet certain evacuation requirements.
In a Type B facility, a resident may:
(1) require staff assistance to evacuate;
(2) require attendance during nighttime sleeping hours;
(3) be incapable of following directions under emergency conditions; and
(4) require assistance in transferring to and from a wheelchair, but must not be permanently bedfast.
A Type C facility is a four-bed facility that:
(1) has an active contract with DADS to provide adult foster care services; and
(2) must be contracted with DADS to provide adult foster care services before it can be licensed.
In a Type E facility, a resident:
(A) must be physically and mentally capable of evacuating the facility without physical assistance from staff, which may include an individual who is mobile, although non-ambulatory, such as an individual who uses a wheelchair or an electric cart and has the capacity to transfer and evacuate himself or herself in an emergency;
(B) must not require routine attendance during nighttime sleeping hours;
(C) must be capable of following directions under emergency conditions; and
(D) must be able to demonstrate to DADS that they can meet certain evacuation requirements.
A Type E facility provides only:
(A) medication supervision and general supervision of residents' welfare and
(B) must not provide substantial assistance with the activities of daily living, (assistance with meals, dressing, movement, bathing, or other personal needs or maintenance).
An autopsy, also known as a post-mortem examination, autopsia cadaverum, or obduction, is a medical procedure that consists of a thorough examination of a corpse to determine the cause and manner of death and to evaluate any disease or injury that may be present. It is usually performed by a specialized medical doctor called a pathologist.
Autopsies are either performed for legal or medical purposes. For example, a forensic autopsy is carried out when the cause of death may be a criminal matter, while a clinical or academic autopsy is performed to find the medical cause of death and is used in cases of unknown or uncertain death, or for research purposes. Autopsies can be further classified into cases where external examination suffices, and those where the body is dissected and internal examination is conducted. Permission from next of kin may be required for internal autopsy in some cases. Once an internal autopsy is complete the body is reconstituted by sewing it back together.
Better Business Bureau (BBB)
A Better Business Bureau (BBB) is a private, nonprofit organization that provides services and programs to assist consumers and businesses. The focus of a Bureau's activities is to promote an ethical marketplace by encouraging honest advertising and selling practices, and alternative dispute resolution. The services and programs offered by your Better Business Bureau can help you be a more informed, knowledgeable and satisfied consumer.
Committed to the principles that fair business practices are good for both buyer and seller, and the vast majority of buyers and sellers are honest and responsible, a Better Business Bureau:
1. Collects and reports information to help prospective buyers make informed decisions.
2. Develops programs to encourage firms to regulate their own advertising and selling practices.
3. Serves as a neutral third party to help settle marketplace disputes.
The branch of medical science that applies biological and physiological principles to clinical practice.
Also known as Commercial Law, is the body of law that governs business and commercial transactions. It is often considered to be a branch of civil law and deals with issues of both private law and public law.
Someone who provides in-home care for seniors and others who are not capable of living independently.
A Geriatric Care Manager (GCM) is a professional who specializes in assisting older people and their families with problem solving, by assessing an individual’s current level of functioning, developing a plan, identifying and utilizing community resources, and making long term care arrangements. Care Management assures the individual’s physical, social and psychological needs are being addressed. Ongoing support and coordination of care can be provided following the assessment, tailored to meet the needs of the client.
See also: Case Management
A collaborative process of assessment, planning, facilitation and advocacy for options and services to meet an individual's health needs through communication and available resources to promote quality cost-effective outcomes.
Care management and care coordination are two other terms sometimes used to describe this work. Different organizations and individuals define these terms in different ways; for example, professionals providing services to older adults often call themselves geriatric care managers.
CBD (Corticobasal Degeneration)
See: PSP (Progressive Supranuclear Palsy)
The CCM® is the first nationally accredited case manager credential. Case managers who have earned the Certified Case Manager (CCM) credential have the expertise, knowledge, and professional experience to provide the right services to patients with serious or complex medical conditions, and/or catastrophic injuries and illnesses.
Specifically designated land in which dead bodies and cremated remains are buried.
Certified Senior Advisor (CSA)®
A NCCA (National Commission for Certifying Agencies) accredited designation signifying that the holder has satisfied the educational requirements set forth by the Society of Certified Senior Advisors.
Certified Senior Advisors (CSA)
Certified Senior Advisors (CSA) have supplemented their individual professional licenses, credentials and education with knowledge about aging and working with seniors. Know what those licenses, credentials and education signify. The CSA designation alone does not imply expertise in financial, health or social matters.
Gifts to charity made by wills or other instruments that take effect after the giver's lifetime. When planning a charitable bequest, legal counsel is essential and tax and financial advice highly advisable.
Popularly known as charities, can operate at either the state or national level. Local charities are nearly always registered as either state charities or as branches of national charities. Charitable organizations are nongovernmental organizations that perform services or provide aid to a specific group of clients or to the general public.
Colon and rectal surgeons are experts in the surgical and non-surgical treatment of colon and rectal problems. They have completed advanced training in the treatment of colon and rectal problems in addition to full training in general surgery. Colon and rectal surgeons treat benign and malignant conditions, perform routine screening examinations and surgically treat problems when necessary.
Of or in a state of deep unconsciousness for a prolonged or indefinite period, esp. as a result of severe injury or illness.
Commission for Case Manager Certification (CCMC)
The Commission for Case Manager Certification is the first and largest nationally accredited organization that certifies case managers. The CCMC is a nonprofit, volunteer organization that oversees the process of case manager certification. The CCM® is the first nationally accredited case manager credential. The CCMC is positioned as the most active and prestigious certification organization supporting the case management industry.
See also: CCM® Certification
Companions are trained in the elder care field to provide assistance with the activities of daily living and can provide a variety of services, which can include:
•Provide companionship
•Meal preparation
•Light housekeeping
•Errand service
•Grocery shopping
•Transportation services
•Laundry and linen washing
•Recreational activities
•Grooming and dressing assistance
•Periodic review with family
•Assistance with bill paying and correspondence
•Bathing
•Transferring/Toileting
Continuing Care Community
A residential community for seniors, with a choice of services and living situations.
According to their changing needs, tenants can move between Independent Living,
Assisted Living, and Nursing Home Care, in the same facility.
The term convalescent homes is often used interchangeably with nursing or rest homes, but there are some differences between these institutions. Convalescent homes are primarily designed to provide a home-like environment while patients recover from long-term illnesses or medical procedures. Many residents of convalescent homes anticipate a return to their own homes after recovery. Nursing or rest homes are more likely to house long-term residents who may or may not require the same level of medical attention.
Convalescent homes generally provide a combination of medical services and support staff. Post-surgical patients, especially the elderly, may be assigned to convalescent homes by their doctors for long or short-term physical therapy and monitored recovery. Others suffering from chronic illnesses such as cancer or advanced diabetes may be kept in convalescent homes to minimize transportation needs between treatments.
Professional guidance in resolving personal conflicts and emotional problems.
A continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine used mainly by patients for the treatment of sleep apnea at home, but now is in widespread use across intensive care units as a form of ventilation.
Is the process of reducing human remains to basic elements in the form of bone fragments through flame, heat, and vaporization.Contrary to popular belief, the cremated remains are not ashes in the usual sense, but rather dried bone fragments that have been pulverized in a device called an electric cremated remains processor. This leaves the bone in a fine sand like texture and color, able to be scattered without any foreign matter.
Another term for crematory.
A place where a deceased person's body is cremated.
A document, signed by a doctor and issued by a government official such as a registrar of vital statistics, that gives pertinent identifying information and declares the date, location and cause of a person's death. Sometimes called a Medical Certificate of the Cause of Death (MCCD).
A general term for the loss of memory and other intellectual abilities serious enough to interfere with daily life.
A person qualified to diagnose and treat diseases, injuries and malformations of the teeth and mouth.
Doctor specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of skin disorders.
A dietitian (sometimes spelled dietician) is an expert in food and nutrition. Dietitians help promote good health through proper eating. They also supervise the preparation and service of food, develop modified diets, participate in research, and educate individuals and groups on good nutritional habits. The goals of the dietary department are to obtain, prepare, and serve flavorsome, attractive, and nutritious food to patients, family members, and health care providers.
In the US nutrition professionals include the registered dietitian (RD) and the dietetic technician, registered (DTR). These terms, as well as simply dietitian, are legally protected terms regulated by the American Dietetic Association (ADA).
An authoritative instruction or direction: specific order.
This document is also known as a Living Will, or Advance Directive. A durable power of attorney that becomes effective if and when one becomes incompetent, and that directs the limit to what medical procedures should be employed to prolong one’s life.
For Consumers: Subscribers may register their residential telephone number, including wireless numbers, on the national Do-Not-Call registry by telephone or by Internet at no cost.
Consumers can register on-line for the national do-not-call registry by going to www.donotcall.gov. To register by telephone, consumers may call 1-888-382-1222: for TTY call 1-866-290-4236. You must call from the phone number you wish to register.
See: Out-of-Hospital Do Not Resuscitate Order (OOH DNR).
Durable Medical Equipment (DME)
Equipment prescribed for use by or on the order of a physician that can withstand repeated use; is primarily and customarily used to serve a medical purpose; generally is not useful to a person in the absence of an illness or injury; and is appropriate for use in the home. Health Coverage levels for DME often depends on insurance coverage. Some common DME examples are: crutches, knee braces, wheelchairs, walkers, hospital beds, CPAP and BI-Level machines.
Legal speciality dealing with trusts, estates, public benefits, etc. for older adults and families.
A doctor who specializes in treating disorders of the endocrine system (glands that secrete hormones), such as diabetes, hyperthyroidism, and many others.
One of the nine specialties of dentistry recognized by the American Dental Association, and deals with the tooth pulp and the tissues surrounding the root of a tooth. Endodontists perform a variety of procedures including root canal therapy, endodontic retreatment, surgery, treating cracked teeth, and treating dental trauma. Root canal therapy is one of the most common procedures.
See: Perpetual/Endowment Care Cemetery
The net worth of a person at any given point in time. The sum of a person’s assets - legal rights, interests and entitlements to property of any kind – less all liabilities at that time. The issue is of special legal significance on a question of bankruptcy and death of the person. (See Inheritance). Depending on the context, the term is also used in reference to an estate in land or of a particular kind of property (such as real estate or personal estate). The term is also used to refer to the sum of a person’s assets only.
An estate sale or estate liquidation is a type of garage sale, yard sale or auction to dispose of a substantial portion of the materials owned by a person who is recently deceased, or who must dispose of his personal property to facilitate a move.
The study of the causes; for example, of a disorder. The word "etiology" is mainly used in medicine, where it is the science that deals with the causes or origin of disease, the factors which produce or predispose toward a certain disease or disorder. In medicine when one hears (or reads) "the etiology is unknown," it means "the cause is unknown."
An area of the law that deals with family-related issues and domestic relations including:
* the nature of marriage, civil unions, and domestic partnerships;
* issues arising during marriage, including spousal abuse, legitimacy, adoption, surrogacy, child abuse, and child abduction;
* the termination of the relationship and ancillary matters including divorce, annulment, property settlements, alimony, and parental responsibility orders (child custody and visitation, and child support awards).
A medical specialty devoted to comprehensive health care for people of all ages. It is a division of primary care that provides continuing and comprehensive health care for the individual and family across sexes, diseases, and parts of the body. It is based on knowledge of the patient in the context of the family and the community, emphasizing disease prevention and health promotion.
A physician who has completed a residency in family medicine and will see patients with nearly any issue. They provide referrals when patients have complicated health issues that require the expertise of a specialist.
Also commonly known as a family physician, family doctor, or general practitioner (G.P.).
The flat horizontal surface right below the edge of a roof. Guttering is normally attached to the fascia boards.
A chapel at a funeral home where a funeral service for the deceased may be held.
A business establishment where corpses are prepared for burial or cremation and where a funeral service may also be held and the body viewed by mourners. Also known as a mortuary.
A doctor specializing in disorders of the stomach and intestines.
Of or relating to aged persons, esp. with regard to their health care.
Is a medical doctor with special training in the diagnosis and treatment of mental disorders that may occur in older adults. These disorders include, but are not limited to, dementia, depression, anxiety, and late-life schizophrenia.
A doctor who specializes in medical care for senior citizens. Also called geriatrist.
The scientific study of aging and its effects.
Doctor specializing in the functions and diseases specific to women and girls, esp. those affecting the reproductive system.
See: Medical Power of Attorney
An heirship affidavit is used to state the heirs of a deceased person. It is commonly used to establish ownership of personal and real property.
The branch of internal medicine, physiology, pathology, clinical laboratory work, and pediatrics concerned with the study of blood, the blood-forming organs, and blood diseases. Hematology includes the study of etiology, diagnosis, treatment, prognosis, and prevention of blood diseases. Hematologist physicians also very frequently do further study in oncology - the medical treatment of cancer.
The excessive acquisition of possessions (and failure to use or discard them), even if the items are worthless, hazardous, or unsanitary. Compulsive hoarding impairs mobility and interferes with basic activities, including cooking, cleaning, showering and sleeping.
An appraisal will develop an opinion of the value of your home; usually it’s Market Value.
Appraisals are generally performed by licensed or certified appraisers.
A form of health care service provided where a patient lives. Patients can receive home care services whether they live in their own homes, with or without family members, or in an assisted living facility. The purpose of home care is to promote, maintain, or restore a patient's health and reduce the effects of disease or disability.
An inspection of a prospective home done by a professional, soon after an offer is made, to establish the structural and mechanical integrity of the house.
The act of preparing a private residence for sale in the real estate marketplace. The goal of staging is to make a home appealing to the highest number of potential buyers, thereby selling a property more swiftly and for more money.
Designed to give supportive care to people in the final phase of a terminal illness and focus on comfort and quality of life, rather than cure. The goal is to enable patients to be comfortable and free of pain, so they live each day as fully as possible. Aggressive methods of pain control may be used. Hospice programs generally are home-based, but they sometimes provide services away from home; in freestanding facilities, in nursing homes, or within hospitals. The philosophy of hospice is to provide support for the patient's emotional, social, and spiritual needs as well as medical symptoms as part of treating the whole person.
See: Palliative Care
Unable to control the bladder or bowels and liable to urinate or defecate involuntarily.
See: Retirement Community
Infectious Disease Specialist (I.D.S.)
A physician who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of infectious diseases.
In the context of probate, the estate of a deceased person consists of all the property, whether real or personal, owned by the person at the time of death. Assets that pass to somebody else by operation of law (for example, property held on a joint tenancy basis), do not form part of the deceased estate, even though the person had rights to that property during his or her lifetime. Also, if the deceased owned life insurance and nominated a beneficiary of the policy, the proceeds of that policy would not pass into the deceased’s estate, but would go directly to the nominated beneficiary. Similarly, superannuation death benefits can go directly to a deceased’s dependent, bypassing the deceased’s estate. The estate (or assets) of a deceased person is administered by an executor (in the case of a will) or administrator (in the case of intestacy). The function of the executor and administrator is to protect the assets of the estate, pay out all expenses and the deceased’s liabilities and distribute the balance in accordance with the directions in the will.
The burial of a dead body or the ashes of a cremated body, typically with funeral rites.
The branch of medicine concerned with the diagnosis and nonsurgical treatment of diseases affecting the internal organs, and with preventive medicine.
Not having made a legally valid will.
A legal document in which a person states what he/she wants to happen to personal belongings, including property upon his or her death.
LBD is an umbrella term for two related diagnoses. LBD refers to both Parkinson’s disease dementia and dementia with Lewy bodies. The earliest symptoms of these two diseases differ, but reflect the same underlying biological changes in the brain. Over time, people with both diagnoses will develop very similar cognitive, physical, sleep, and behavioral symptoms.
Form of insurance for those at risk of being sued by third parties for negligence (e.g. auto insurance).
A document, typically signed in advance while in good health, in which somebody declines to be kept alive artificially by life-support systems in case of a terminal illness. (Also known as an Advance Directive or Directive to Physicians.)
Long-term acute care is rehabilitation for patients who are too sick to be in a nursing home but not sick enough to be in a traditional hospital.Long-term acute care is administered in specialized hospitals. The stay of those entering long-term acute hospitals can be anywhere from 20 to 30 days. After recovery, patients usually return to their places of residence.
Privately issued insurance policy, which covers the cost of nursing home care, assisted living, and home health care. Premiums are based on age, health, length of deductible periods, amount paid, and duration of benefits.
Clear and easily understood.
A program funded by the U.S. and state governments that pays the medical expenses of people who are unable to pay some or all of their own expenses.
Medical Power of Attorney
A document that allows an individual to appoint someone else to make decisions about his or her medical care if he or she is unable to communicate. This type of advance directive may also be called a healthcare proxy, durable power of attorney for healthcare or appointment of a healthcare agent. The person appointed may be called a healthcare agent, surrogate, attorney-in-fact or proxy.
A health insurance program in the United States under which medical care and hospital treatment for people over 65 is partially paid by the government.
A substance used for medical treatment, esp. a medicine or drug.
Forgetfulness or loss of memories beyond what is normal for most people.
Mental Health Treatment Declaration
This document allows you to make decisions in advance about mental health treatment and specifically three types of mental health treatment: psychoactive medication, convulsive therapy, and emergency mental health treatment. The instructions you include in this declaration will be followed only if a court believes you're incapacitated to make treatment decisions. Otherwise, you'll be considered able to give or withhold consent for the treatments.
Able to move freely or easily.
A mortgage broker acts as an intermediary who sells mortgage loans on behalf of individuals or businesses.
A mortgage survey or physical survey is a simple survey that delineates land boundaries and building locations. In many places a mortgage survey is required by lending institutions as a precondition for a mortgage loan.
Doctor specializing with the anatomy, functions, and organic disorders of nerves and the nervous system.
A long-term healthcare facility that provides full-time care and medical treatment for people who are unable to take care of themselves.
In many jurisdictions a nutritionist is a person who devotes professional activity to food and preventive nutrition. They can also advise people on dietary matters relating to health, well-being and nutrition.
Although many use the terms "nutritionist" and "dietitian" interchangeably, there is a difference in training and expertise. The term "registered dietitian" is legally protected. A registered dietitian is a food and nutrition expert who has met the minimum academic and professional requirements to qualify for the credential “RD.” In addition to RD credentialing through the American Dietetic Association, many states have regulatory laws for dietitians and nutrition practitioners.
The title "nutritionist" is protected and designated by many but not all states in the United States. It is important that a person seeking the counsel of a nutritionist, check with their local state's licensing agency to find out if prospective practitioners are duly licensed.
An announcement, especially in a newspaper, of somebody’s death, often with a short biography.
Promotes health by enabling people to perform meaningful and purposeful occupations. These include (but are not limited to) work, leisure, self-care, domestic, and community activities. Occupational therapists work with individuals, families, groups and communities to facilitate health and well-being through engagement or re-engagement in occupation.
A person who acts as a trusted intermediary between an organization and some internal or external constituency while representing the broad scope of constituent interests. Making a complaint to an ombudsman is usually free of charge. For the Long Term Care Ombudsman in your area see Senior Care>Ombudsman in the Directory.
Doctor specializing in the study and treatment of malignant tumors.
A physician qualified to diagnose and treat eye diseases and conditions with drugs, surgery, and corrective measures.
Is a Doctor of Optometry licensed and trained to determine powers of vision and write contact lens and eyeglass prescriptions.
Doctors of optometry examine, diagnose, treat and manage diseases and disorders of the visual system, the eyes and associated structures as well as diagnose related systemic conditions.
Oral and maxillofacial surgery is the specialty of dentistry that includes the diagnosis, surgical and related treatment of diseases, injuries and defects involving both the functional and esthetic aspects of the hard and soft tissues of the head, mouth, teeth, gums, jaws and neck.
One of the nine specialties of dentistry recognized by the American Dental Association, and is concerned with the study and treatment of malocclusions (improper bites). Orthodontic treatment can focus on dental displacement only, or can deal with the control and modification of facial growth (dentofacial orthopedics). Orthodontic treatment can be carried out for purely aesthetic reasons with regards to improving the general appearance of patients' teeth and/or providing the patient with a functionally improved bite (occlusion).
An orthopaedic surgeon is a physician devoted to the diagnosis, treatment, prevention and rehabilitation of injuries, disorders and diseases of the body’s musculoskeletal system. This system includes bones, joints, ligaments, muscles, nerves and tendons.
Otolaryngologist (E.N.T.)
Doctor specializing in the study of diseases of the ear, nose and throat.
The branch of medicine concerned with the structure and function of the ear, its diseases, and their treatment.
Out-of-Hospital Do Not Resuscitate Order (OOH DNR)
The Out-of-Hospital Do-Not-Resuscitate program allows people to decide that they do not want to be resuscitated if they stop breathing and their hearts stop beating. The program allows people to declare that certain resuscitative measures will not be used on them. Those resuscitative measures specifically listed in the OOH DNR legislation are cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), advanced airway management, defibrillation, artificial ventilations and transcutaneous cardiac pacing.
Note: An original of the OOH DNR must be available to medical/emergency personnel at the scene.
Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medicines
Drugs you can buy without a prescription.
Soothing anxieties or other intense emotions.
Provides relief from pain and other uncomfortable symptoms and assists in making difficult medical decisions. It coordinates care with other doctors and helps to navigate the often-complex healthcare system. It guides in making a plan for living well, based on the patient’s needs, concerns and goals for care.
See: Hospice Care
A medical subspecialty provided by doctors who offer palliative care for people who are seriously ill. Palliative care relieves suffering and improves quality of life for people of any age, and at any stage in a serious illness, whether that illness is curable, chronic or life-threatening.
Provides curb-to-curb transportation for persons who are unable to ride the regular transit system due to documented physical disabilities.
Parkinson's disease (PD) is a movement disorder that is chronic and progressive, meaning that symptoms continue and worsen over time. Nearly one million people in the US are living with Parkinson's disease. The cause is unknown, and although there is presently no cure, there are treatment options such as medication and surgery to manage its symptoms.
(See: Directory>Informative Websites)
A doctor who identifies diseases by studying cells and tissues under a microscope.
One of the nine specialties of dentistry recognized by the American Dental Association, and is the branch of dentistry dealing with children from birth through adolescence.
One of the nine specialties of dentistry recognized by the American Dental Association, is the branch of dentistry concerned with the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of diseases affecting the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. Periodontists are also experts in the placement and maintenance of dental implants.
Perpetual/Endowment Care Cemetery
A cemetery operated as a Perpetual Care or Endowment Care cemetery means a perpetual care fund for its maintenance has been established in conformity with the laws of the State of Texas. Perpetual Care or Endowment Care means the maintenance, repair and care of the cemetery. In Texas the Department of Banking licenses and regulates these entities.
Personal Assistance Service Providers
Offer one or more of the following services to adults whose health problems cause them to be functionally limited in performing activities of daily living:
bathing, dressing, grooming, feeding, exercising, toileting, positioning, assisting with self-administration of medications, routine hair and skin care, and transfer or ambulation.
Services are provided in a residence or independent living environment.
See: Residential Care Home
The treatment of disease, injury, or deformity by physical methods such as massage, heat treatment, and exercise rather than by drugs or surgery.
A medical specialist dealing with the repair, reconstruction, or replacement of physical defects of form or function involving the skin, musculoskeletal system, craniomaxillofacial structures, hand, extremities, breast and trunk, external genitalia or cosmetic enhancement of these areas of the body. Cosmetic surgery is an essential component of plastic surgery. The plastic surgeon uses cosmetic surgical principles both to improve overall appearance and to optimize the outcome of reconstructive procedures.
A podiatrist is a doctor of podiatric medicine (DPM), also known as a podiatric physician or surgeon, qualified by their education and training to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the foot, ankle and related structures of the leg. Podiatrists are uniquely qualified among medical professionals to treat the foot and ankle based on their education, training and experience.
A power of attorney (POA) or letter of attorney in common law systems or mandate in civil law systems is an authorization to act on someone else's behalf in a legal or business matter.
The legal process of administering the estate of a deceased person by resolving all claims and distributing the deceased person’s property under the valid will. A surrogate court decides the validity of a testator’s will. A probate interprets the instructions of the deceased, decides the executor as the personal representative of the estate, and adjudicates the interests of heirs and other parties who may have claims against the estate.
See: Colon and Rectal Surgeon
A service that helps individuals and businesses design systems and processes using organizing principles and through transferring skills. Professional organizers help individuals and businesses take control of their surroundings, their time, their paper and their systems for life.
Also known as dental prosthetics or prosthetic dentistry is one of the nine specialties recognized by the American Dental Association and specializes in the replacement of teeth using dentures, bridges and implants. The treatment, planning and restoration of implants, temporomandibular joint disorder, and rehabilitation of occlusion(bite) with prostheses all fall under the field of prosthodontics.
PSP (Progressive Supranuclear Palsy)
Progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) and corticobasal degeneration (CBD) are neurodegenerative brain diseases that have no known cause, treatment or cure. They affect nerve cells that control walking, balance, mobility, vision, speech, and swallowing. Five to six people per 100,000 will develop PSP. That ratio is even smaller for CBD patients. Symptoms begin, on average, when an individual is in the early 60's, but may start as early as in the 40's. PSP is slightly more common in men than women, but PSP has no known geographical, occupational or racial preference.
PSP and CBD currently have no direct course of effective treatment or medication, although some drugs and therapies provide temporary or modest benefit to treat symptoms.
Psychiatrists specialize in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of mental disorders, emotional disorders, psychotic disorders, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, substance-related disorders, sexual and gender identity disorders and adjustment disorders. Biologic, psychological, and social components of illnesses are explored and understood in treatment of the whole person. Tools used may include diagnostic laboratory tests, prescribed medications, evaluation and treatment of psychological and interpersonal problems with individuals and families, and intervention for coping with stress, crises, and other problems.
An individual with a doctoral degree in the scientific study of the behavior of individuals and their mental processes. Psychologists are trained to help people cope more effectively with life problems, using techniques based on best available research and their clinical skills and experience, and taking into account the person's unique values, goals and circumstances.
Concerning, affecting, or associated with the lungs.
A person who acts as an agent for the sale and purchase of buildings and land; a real estate agent. Real Estate Brokers and Salespersons are regulated by the Texas Real Estate Commission.
Is the service whereby, prearranged, daily telephone calls are made to elderly, isolated, or disabled persons.
Refers to the removal of the deceased from the place of death to a funeral home.
A house in a residential neighborhood that's been modified with safety devices to meet state regulations allowing elderly residents to live in the house. Having gone through the licensure process and having met all of the state regulations, the house becomes an Assisted Living Facility licensed by the State of Texas.
Is the provision of short-term, temporary relief to those who are caring for family members who might otherwise require permanent placement in a facility outside the home.
Acting in response, as to some stimulus.
The goal of restorative nursing care is to maximize a person's level of function and minimize decline. With training, nursing assistants and physical therapy assistants engage people to participate in their care by encouraging them to make decisions. These activities include allowing people to participate as much as possible in their daily activities, including bathing, dressing and going to the bathroom. Restorative care also includes physical activity while promoting safety--for example, instructing a person on how to safely transfer to bed from a wheelchair. Restorative care aides reinforce the training people receive from physical, speech and respiratory therapy.
A generic term used to describe many varieties of housing for retirees and seniors; especially designed for active adults, and restricted to those over a certain age. It can refer to a retirement home or complex, condominiums, or a multi-residence housing facility where each person or couple has an apartment-style room or suite of rooms, with various amenities provided within the building. Many retirement communities are planned for that purpose, and have special facilities catering to the needs and wants of retirees. Some offer separate and autonomous homes for residents, and can include extensive amenities such as clubhouses, swimming pools, boating, trails, golf courses, arts and crafts, retail and on-site medical facilities.
See: Retirement Community
See: Retirement Community
Relating to, affected by, or resembling any painful condition of the joints or muscles that is not caused by infection or injury.
Ultimately, the amount a Buyer will pay and the Seller will accept.
A community facility that provides for a broad spectrum of health, social, nutritional and educational services, and recreational activities for older persons.
See: Retirement Community
SFR (Short Sales & Foreclosures Resource)
Is a real estate certification for short sales and foreclosures.
A sale of real estate in which the proceeds from selling the property will fall short of the balance of debts secured by liens against the property and the property owner cannot afford to repay the liens full amounts, whereby the lien holders agree to release their lien on the real estate and accept less than the amount owed on the debt. Any unpaid balance owed to the creditors is known as a deficiency. Short sale agreements do not necessarily release borrowers from their obligations to repay any deficiencies of the loans, unless specifically agreed to between the parties. A short sale is often used as an alternative to foreclosure because it mitigates additional fees and costs to both the creditor and borrower. A short sale will often result in a negative credit report against the property owner; however it is less damaging than a foreclosure report.
A medical subspecialty specializing in studying, diagnosing and treating disorders of sleep and daytime alertness such as insomnia, narcolepsy and obstructive sleep apnea.
Having enough money to cover expenses and debts.
SRES (Seniors Real Estate Specialists)
Designees are real estate professionals qualified to address the needs of home buyers and sellers age 50+.
Structural engineers analyze, design, plan, and research structural components and structural systems to achieve design goals and ensure the safety and comfort of users or occupants. Their work takes account mainly of safety, technical, economic and environmental concerns, but they may also consider aesthetic and social factors.
Supplemental Health Insurance
Is a type of insurance policy designed to cover the gaps that your regular health insurance may have due to deductibles and co-payments. Supplemental health insurance covers additional expenses that your primary insurance doesn’t cover, such as lost income and living expenses.
Is a licensed professional who is trained in the technique and science of accurately determining and describing where a certain area of land is, what it looks like, and how much is there. They put these facts in deeds, leases, and other legal documents often used to establish land maps and boundaries for ownership or governmental purposes.
See also: Mortgage Survey
Regular, pre-scheduled telephone calls to seniors and others who live alone, to ensure they are okay, and to reduce loneliness.
A termite inspection is a visual inspection of the readily accessible areas of a home for evidence of wood-destroying insects (WDI) and wood-destroying organisms (WDO). The inspector will visually inspect the entire interior of a home (including accessing and entering any sub-space such as basements and crawlspaces) and exterior of the property. In areas where Drywood termites are prevalent, and in houses where there are no sub-areas, the attic may also be accessed and inspected. After the inspection has been performed, the findings are reported.
Abbreviation for Trusted Friend or Family Member.
A document giving evidence of the legal right to possess and dispose of property.
A firm that verifies ownership of real property, often done in connection with a conveyance of real property from seller to buyer. The valid owner is determined through a thorough examination of property records in a Title Search. The company issues a title certificate, based on its examination.
Title Companies also issue insurance policies to indemnify the owner and lender against financial loss resulting from unknown title defects or prior claims against the property.
Protects the property owner against losses arising from problems with your property title that were unknown to you when you bought the property. Title insurance only protects you from claims of ownership. It does not insure against fire, flood, theft, or any other type of property damage or loss. Before writing a title insurance policy, a title company will check for defects in your title by examining public records, including deeds, mortgages, wills, divorce decrees, court judgments, tax records, liens, encumbrances, and maps. Title companies also handle the closing of a property sale and hold any earnest money in a trust account until the purchase is complete.
Title XIX, Social Security Act
Title XIX of the Social Security Act creates the Texas Medical Assistance Program, which is a state plan to provide care for the poor, the elderly, and the disabled.
Title XVIII, Social Security Act
Title XVIII of the Social Security Act creates the Medicare program which is a health insurance program for the aged and disabled.
Not aware of and responding to one's surroundings.
Upside Down/Negative Equity
A term used to refer to when the value of an asset used to secure a loan is less than the outstanding balance on the loan. Assets (particularly real estate) with negative equity are said to be "underwater", and loans and borrowers with negative equity are said to be "upside down".
Doctor specializing in the branch of medicine and physiology concerned with the function and disorders of the urinary system.
A four-legged framework of lightweight metal, usually waist high, for use by a weak or disabled person as a support while walking.
See: Last Will & Testament and Living Will
See: Walker/Walking Frame
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