David Iglehart started his career at the University of Iowa, graduating from the College of Dentistry in 1983. David completed a hospital dentistry residency at University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics and practiced family dentistry in Davenport for 30 years. After his retirement, he began his second career teaching prosthodontics as a Clinical Assistant Professor in the College of Dentistry.

Dr. Iglehart’s family lived modestly, and the children were expected to pay for their own schooling. As their parents aged, it became evident to David and his two siblings that their parents were likely to exhaust their retirement savings. Fortunately, their parents were open about their dire financial future. They trusted their three children to do what was best on their behalf and assigned powers of attorney to David.

Fast forward to 2014. In the period of one week, David’s mom fell and broke her hip while his dad suffered from congestive heart failure, diabetes and breathing difficulties. Once they were hospitalized at the same time, it became clear that it was no longer safe for them to live on their own.

“I felt lost and overwhelmed with no clue how I was going to figure everything out on my own.” At that time, David was introduced to Rhonda Halterman, founder and owner of LivWell Seniors. Rhonda sat down with David, his parents and his siblings to come up with a blueprint for their current situation and discuss options for their living situation. A common challenge faced when considering senior living options is understanding what is available for an individual’s financial situation and make projections using costs that are associated with different types of senior living facilities and services that may be needed down the road.

Rhonda scheduled appointments for David and his family to tour senior living facilities and joined them on these visits acting as a personal and professional advocate. In the case of David’s father — a military veteran — Rhonda was able to recommend a little-known program through the Veteran’s Administration that provided substantial additional income to contribute to their living expenses. “

I never would have learned about some of the resources that were available to help my parents on my own. Rhonda really wanted what was best for my mom and dad, even though she had never met my family. My parents were comfortable with her, and we never felt rushed into making decisions. I am eternally grateful for the knowledge and compassion she provided to help me and my siblings make decisions that were in the best interest of our parents.”

Are you trying to find options for yourself of a loved one? Could you use some guidance on where to start? UI faculty and staff can meet with a Senior Resource Specialist one-on-one or with family members at no cost. For more information about LivWell Seniors or to make an appointment, contact 319-250-1577, info@livwellseniors.com or chat the LivWell Seniors website: livwellseniors.com

liveWELL Fall 2019 Newsletter, University of Iowa