Boomers d n o y e B & Westchester County
May 2014
Department of Senior Programs & Services Salute to Seniors Westchester County Center, May 8th p2 Steps in Home Care Let us help your family One Step at a Time! p5 Visiting Development Care Group Quality home care for the one you love p9 Dominican Sisters Family Health Services Compassionate care in the comfort of your home p11 Take the new AARP Safe Driver Course and save on car insurance! p15 Westchester Audiology Oers total hearing care for all age categories p17
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May, 2014
Boomers & Beyond - Westchester
WESTCHESTER TO MARK NATIONAL SENIOR HEALTH & FITNESS DAY “Make A Move Toward Better Health” is this year’s theme Westchester seniors will be able to try low-impact exercises and cardiodancing and learn about good nutrition plus much more at the 21st annual National Senior Health and Fitness Day on Wednesday, May 28 at locations throughout the county. National Senior Health and Fitness Day is a public/private good health partnership organized by the Mature Market Resource Center, a national clearinghouse for professionals who work in older adult markets. It is organized locally by Westchester County’s Department of Senior Programs and Services (DSPS) and its Health and Wellness Collaborative, which is comprised of 15 community organizations. National Senior Health and Fitness Day always takes place the last Wednesday in May, which is Older Americans Month. The programs are free and open to county residents who are 60 years and older. This year’s theme is “Make a Move Toward Better Health.” All the activities are noncompetitive and may include walking events, health screenings and information workshops on fitness. Last year Senior Health and Wellness Day programs took place at 11 locations in Westchester including community centers, nutrition sites and adult day-care programs. In previous years, activities included tap, belly and Zumba dancing, bocce, tennis and Health Tips Bingo.
The day also included talks on topics such as “80 is the New 60” and “The Healing Value of Music.” A special session last year for Spanish-speaking seniors also included presentations on topics such as “How to Talk to Your Doctor” and “Understanding Recent Changes in Medicaid.” The Mature Market Resource Center says that an estimated 100,000 seniors take part in activities at more than 1,000 locations across the country. Its goals are to promote the importance of regular physical activity and to showcase what local organizations and agencies are doing to improve the health and fitness of older adults in their communities. DSPS Commissioner Mae Carpenter says that exercise is essential if seniors want to be healthy and independent for as long as possible. “Seniors get the opportunity to try some appropriate and enjoyable forms of exercise at Senior Health and Fitness Day,” she said. “Exercise helps people to feel well and can also prevent falls and lessen conditions such as depression. I encourage all seniors to take part.” The locations that will host sessions and what activities there will sponsor will be announced in the near future. For more information about the event, call DSPS at (914) 8136400. Facilities willing to host programs should call (914) 813-6432.
SAXON WOODS POOL PARTY AND BARBECUE SET FOR JUNE 24 Westchester County residents age 60 and older are invited to relax and enjoy one of the first days of summer at the annual Saxon Woods Pool Party and Barbecue on June 24 at the Saxon Woods Pool in White Plains. Admission and parking are free, and the fun will be under way from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Lifeguards will be on duty and as always seniors are welcome to bring their young grandchildren. A Westchester County Park Pass is not required to use the pool. The day will also feature activities such as water aerobics, miniature golf, dancing and live entertainment.
The delicious all-American barbecue lunch with chicken, tossed salad, potato salad, juice and dessert will be available by reservation, and the suggested contribution for both children and seniors is $4. Information about signing up for the event day and how to order lunch will be available in coming weeks. The rain date for the pool party and barbecue is June 25. The event is sponsored by the Westchester County Department of Senior Programs and Services and Westchester County Parks. For more information, call the county parks department at (914) 231-4500.
County E Executive Robertt P. P. Astorino invites you to
Westchester Westch hester County’s County ’s 46 46th 6th Annual SALUTE TO
SENI SE NI
RS
Thursday, Thursd day y, May 8 • 9am-2pm County Cou unty Center in White e Plains FREE FRE EE ADMISSION • FREE PARKING
Join us for a fun and educational day as we celebrate Older Americans ns W lan a fun outing for your Month and honor Westchester’s seniors. Plan come with a friend, family member ember or caregiver. group, or come
Be Proactive with h TIPS Be among the first st to experience the new T Telehealth elehealth Intervention on Program for Seniors (TIPS) (TIPS), PS) , an innovative initiative that uses technologyy to remotely monitor your vital signs and sends the results to your health care professional. Y You ou wil willl also receive information about health and wel wellness lness programs. TIPS will help you to take control of your health, reduce medical bills and avoid unplanned lanned hospital visits. LIMITED SPACE A AVAILABLE VAIILABLE FOR TIPS: Advance e registration preferred. Call (914) 813-6408 8 or email mqv8@westchestergov mqv8@westchestergov.com stergov.com to sign up.
Exciting Entertain Entertainment nment Enjoy the greatest est hits of Elvis Presley and Diana Ross pe performed rformed by premier impersonators ersonators and the talentss of exciting P Polynesian olynesian and Irish step dancers. rs. Health & Wellnes Wellness ss Fair Stop by 17 booths ths where providers offerr skin and dental information, ormation, nutrition assessments, sments, tai chi exercise and more. Business Expo Explore E offerings from 90+ + vendors and representatives from m government agencies who specialize in products and servic ces for seniors and caregivers. givers. services Find out if the state is holding unclaimed funds in your name. Sign up for the Reduced-Fare MetroCard. To reserve a box lunch (by April 23rd), call: (914) 813-6416. For event information, call (914) 231-4500 or visit www.westchestergov.com/seniors. The W Westchester estchester Public/Private Partnership for Aging Services paid for this ad. No tax dollars were used.
ATTORNEYS AT LAW Many Years of Experience Protecting the Legal Interests of the Elderly & Special Needs Populations Advising Families about: • • • • • • • • •
Medicaid Asset Protection Planning Estate Planning & Administration Special Needs Home Care Long Term Care Health Care Proxies Powers of Attorney Guardianships
See more information on page 14
Client Testimonials I reached out to you during the most stressful time of life for both my loved ones and myself - horror had occurred to my dear loving mother. My mom had fractured her hip and due to her frail health and advanced age required risky hip replacement surgery. Many issues legal and otherwise arose which I could not personally resolve. You not only resolved each and every one, but you continue to do so now, over 4 years later. You always display extreme sincerity, compassion and friendship, using your vast experience and confidence in your ability, to continually bring satisfaction, positive results and a tremendous sense of relief and comfort to my loved ones and myself. You have gone out of your way to visit Mom on multiple occasions in her Nursing house and we love you for it. As an attorney, friend, and a great man, I could not possibly hope to know anyone more phenomenal. The three greatest men I have ever known are my dear departed father, my dear departed father-in-law and Ely Rosenzveig. – Jeff D. I hired Ely to assist with my parents estate planning and it was a wise decision. He is a true expert in navigating through complex elder care law and procedures. His guidance was invaluable and his communication excellent. I would strongly recommend his services.
2 Westchester Park Drive, Suite #108 White Plains, New York 10604 Email: Info@Ejrosenlaw.com
Tel: (914) 816-2900
– Tom C.
www.ejrosenlaw.com ELDER LAW
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Steps In Home Care provides special family touch Shan Wade, and his partner, also, sister-in-law, Jennifer Martire, of Steps In Home Care Inc., regularly meet with clients to have coffee or tea with them to chat and discuss how they are doing. Call this part of the Steps In Home Care Inc family touch. The caring and experienced staff delivers extraordinary care on a daily basis in a family atmosphere, helping senior clients flourish and maintain their quality of life. Steps In Home Care Inc helps clients and their families navigate the complex world of managed care, medical benefits and homecare services. The Steps In Home Care Inc mission is simple: to help an indiviual maintain quality of life, independence and dignity as well as to help their families. Steps In Home Care Inc allows clients to remain in their own homes with a comfortable surroundings. “You get that family atmosphere,” Shan said. “We’re family owned and operated. It’s not just a caregiver and your mom or dad on an island all alone. Testimonial We care, we are taking care of them the same way we would want our own family member taken care of. I think that really comes across. Our clients In November of 2012 I was given a job offer and had to quickly find a home love that.” Jennifer said, “In fact, we have taken care of my grandparents, health care aide to care for my 92 year old wheelchair bound mother who and we cared for them in the exact same way we take care of all our of other would be returning from a stay at the local nursing home within just a few clients.” short weeks. Steps In Home Care Inc works with dozens of senior clients in Westchester County, Fairfield County, Long Island, New York City, Not having any luck with local contacts, I came upon Steps in Home Care Palm Beach and Broward counties in Florida. Before Steps In Home web site and contacted them by e-mail with my needs. I immediately received Care Inc, Steps Therapy, the firm’s sister company, was founded in a phone call from the agency and was told that they could assist me in any San Francisco in 2007 – providing consulting services to people with way possible. disabilities. With the success of Steps Therapy, Steps In Home Care Inc was born, and blossomed. A meeting was set up at my convenience at the nursing home prior to my Steps In Home Care Inc caregivers are trained and certified HHA’s and mothers release with myself, Barbara, the local Registered Nurse who works CNA’s, but also serve as personal assistants. Rest assured, they will help with Steps in Home Care, and Shan Wade, the agency contact/principal. clients with a variety of daily activities, ensuring that they live a longer I found both Barbara and Shan to be very professional, informative and well and healthier life. Steps In Home Care Inc’s diverse services range from prepared in providing me with the information I needed from them. help with transportation, household cleaning, and meal preparation to a They showed empathy and understanding and asked the staff at the nursing 24 hour live-in to help with dressing, bed transfers, and personal hygiene. home and myself very astute questions pertaining to my mother’s health, The staff is available 24 hours a day and can develop a program tailormade for your loved one, which includes their family in the development personality and overall demeanor. and ongoing management of the Plan of Care. Whether that means The first day services were provided, both Shan and Barbara were at our home providing care during the morning, evening, or for the entire day. Steps In Home Care Inc knows that, as a caregiver, taking care of a loved to introduce the aide to everyone and to go over all the various steps in care one can be stressful. that were to be provided throughout the day. Steps In Home Care Inc can help independent individuals or couples. The staff regularly works with adult children taking care of their parents, Our caregiver provided by Steps in Home Care was well trained and immediately helping them enjoy their lives. The patient-centered approach addresses the became a part of our family thanks to her warm, congenial personality. specific needs of each patient and Steps In Home Care Inc provides regular She had a "take charge" attitude, which was a blessing to me, as I wanted visits to insure that the Plan of Care that has been designed for your loved someone I could simply turn my mom's care over to as I tried to regain parts of one is carried out seamlessly. my life after years of full time caregiving. I never worried while our aide was “We make sure that it’s always easy for the client to communicate with with my mother and I was at work. I knew she was safe and well cared for. their caregiver,” Shan said. “We love to talk with them, interact with them, it’s like they have another son or daughter. That’s the No. 1 thing that our The services provided by Steps in Home Care were perfect for my families clients tell us about, they love the personality of our caregivers. We want to needs. For the most part my assigned caregiver was very dependable. make sure that our staff has that skill set and to engage our clients on a high Emergency backup was provided if something happened and our aide level, get out of the house if possible, read the newspaper, and discuss could not make it. current events. Families really enjoy that.” The firm’s clients and their families are what matter most to Shan, I would highly recommend this agency for anyone who is looking for a Jennifer, and the Steps In Home Care Inc staff. The personal touch comes caregiver for your loved one. from, among other things, Shan’s own experience. Two years ago, he needed to find home health care services for his mom. Through that process he Marie K. – Sea Cliff, NY determined there was a better way. It’s no wonder that the Steps In Home Care Inc’s staff treats every client like they were their own mom or dad.
3 Barker Avenue, 2nd Floor White Plains, NY 10601
www.stepsinhomecare.com
855.207.STEPS (7837)
You Are Not Alone. We Can Help. Helping Your Family One Step at a Time Steps is Licensed Home Care Services Agency (License # 1996-L001). We are a locally, family, and woman owned company with offices in several states, including CT and NY.
Our Goal Our Goal is to help Seniors maintain their health and control over their living situation by staying in a comfortable, safe environment… whether in a Nursing Home or their own home. • • • •
We provide our patients the help they need to maintain their emotional and physical well-being. Steps not only serves the well-being of the patient, but also that of their family. We partner with the entire family. The care our company provides is the same level of care we would want our parents to receive.
Our Philosophy Our Philosophy consists of 3 key principles: Passion, Excellence, and Family. • Passion: This isn’t just our business…it’s our passion. We have passion and pride in everything we do. • Excellence: We hold ourselves to a higher “Standard of Excellence.” We don’t just do the bare minimum…we go above and beyond. • Family: This is a family owned business. Our family is here to help you take care of yours. We will take care of your Mom or Dad just as we would take care of our own.
Call 855.207.STEPS before 5/31/2014 for a FREE RN Assessment.
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May, 2014
Boomers & Beyond - Westchester
Advertiser’s Index
From the General Manager
AARP Driver Safety................................................................15
Is there any holiday more universally accepted across different cultures than Mother's Day? More than 40 countries worldwide have designated a day, usually in spring, to thank mom for all of her love, hard work and patience.
A&J Home Care, Inc...............................................................10 Bethel..........................................................................13 ColumbiaDoctors..................................................................19 Diana’s Angels Home Care, Inc.............................................12 Dominican Sisters Family Health Service..............................11 Ely J. Rosenzveig & Associates, PC...................................3,14 Glen Island Center for Nursing and Rehabilitation.................16 Longevity Care...........................................................................7 Margeliz Center.......................................................................18 Steps in Home Care................................................................5 VNA of Hudson Valley...........................................................20 Victoria Home.........................................................................8 Visiting Development Care Group, LLC................................9 Westchester Audiology.........................................................17 Westchester County Department of Senior Programs and Services..........................................................................2
While mothers get most of the press, grandmothers and great-grandmothers, aunts and a variety of mother figures and mentors share equally in the celebration, creating a unique opportunity for multi-generational families. And the beauty of these wonderful women? They do not ask for anything in return for their limitless love and admiration for their children. All they want is happiness for their children and loved ones. However, we should let our moms know they are appreciated and truly loved. Their hard work should never be overlooked. Let's take this opportunity to get together and wish every mother on this planet and show how important they are in our lives. Boomers & Beyond would like to take this opportunity to wish all of our Boomers & Beyond readers. Mother’s Day is May 11 this year, but we celebrate you every day, that’s for sure. We hope you all enjoy a great day with your family. Happy Mother’s Day!
Jim Stankiewicz, General Manager Westchester County
Boomers d & Beyon
845-534-7500 • (fax) 845-534-0055 Info@HealthcareNewspaper.com PUBLISHER Joseph P. Belsito (Joe@healthcarenewspaper.com) ••• GENERAL MANAGER James Stankiewicz (Jim@healthcarenewspaper.com) ••• MANAGING EDITOR Cathryn Burak (Cathy@healthcarenewspaper.com) ••• MARKETING EXECUTIVE Anthony Mairo (Anthony@healthcarenewspaper.com) ••• CIRCULATION Michelle Belsito (Michelle@healthcarenewspaper.com) ••• SENIOR CORRESPONDENTS Brendan Coyne John Jordan
Corporate Information Healthcare News - Westchester, New York edition - Vol. 7 No. 5 - is published monthly, 12 times a year by Belsito Communications, Inc., 1 Ardmore Street, New Windsor, NY 12553. Postage Paid at New Windsor, NY and additional mailing offices. Postmaster: Send address changes to Healthcare Newspaper, 1 Ardmore Street, New Windsor, NY, 12553. No financial responsibility is assumed by this newspaper to publish a display, classified, or legal ad or for typographical errors except of reprinting that part of the ad which was omitted or in error. Omissions or errors must be brought to the attention of the newspaper during the same month of publication.
Next Month in Boomers & Beyond… National Nurse Assistant Week (June 15-21) Recognizing the unique contributions of those who provide daily care in nursing homes, home care and other short and long term care settings!
Senior Housing & Long Term Care The best facilities in your area
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May, 2014
Boomers & Beyond - Westchester
Mother’s Day gifts for seniors • Buy clothes that are easy to get on and off. Mock-buttons or snaps on these items helps your elderly mother retain independence because it is something she can do easily herself and still look fashionable.
• Sign up your mother for a Netflix subscription or for another movie service. If your mom loves the Hollywood classics, this can give her the opportunity to once again enjoy the films she loved during her youth.
• Get a foot massager or portable foot bath with whirlpool. This can help if your mother complains of tired or aching feet.
• Get your mother a subscription to a magazine. There are many magazines devoted to senior health and travel. These can provide a sense of empathy and valuable information.
• Purchase and install a step-in tub. While this can be expensive, it can make a big difference in safety and comfort if your mother has trouble getting in and out of the tub.
Your mom might officially be a senior citizen, but that doesn’t mean you should present her with bathrobes and slippers this Mother’s Day. Today’s seniors are redefining the Golden Years by filling their retirements with travel and activity. There are several gifts and activities families can try that can make for an enjoyable experience Mother’s Day experience. So what are you waiting for. Get out there, have fun. And, most of all, Happy Mother’s day from Boomers & Beyond!
Activities
• Go for a scenic drive or tour old neighborhoods. These trips to beautiful locations or down memory lane can lead to meaningful discussions and stories. • Create a scrapbook. Going through old photos and recipes and putting them into a book is a fun activity and it creates a treasured item along the way. • Go to church or temple. This may be something that is difficult to do on a regular basis, so going on Mother’s Day is rewarding spiritually and it allows your elderly mother to connect with friends. • Spend a day working on the yard or in the garden. While your mother may not physically be able to do yard work anymore, she will appreciate spending time outside with you as you work to make the view out her window more beautiful.
• Play games or put together puzzles. These group activities are full of fun. They keep your mother’s mind active, but do not tax her physically. • Ask for help. By involving your elderly mother in any activity, she feels needed. Depending on her physical abilities, you can cook together or work in the garden. Start by asking what she would like to do. • Keep promises. With busy lives, it’s easy for people to forget about commitments. By following through, it shows your appreciation.
Gifts
• Give your elderly mother the latest large-print book by their favorite author or enroll them in a large-print book club. If that is not an option, a magnifying glass can go a long way.
• Get your mom a spa package that can include a massage, a facial, a manicure and/or a pedicure. Check to see if the spa caters to elderly clients.
Boomers & Beyond - Westchester May, 2014
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“Just another day in the life of….” The importance of daily activity for mom or dad despite dementia By: Viviana DeCohen My mother-in-law loves to dance. She will soon be a “seasoned senior” of 89. Truth be told, at Zumba class she out dances me every time and enjoys being the center of attention. Her joy and laughter brings just that to the other participants as she shuffles from left to right sometimes getting it wrong, but we stand in the rear and add laughter with each faux pas.
We all need daily activity but for the person with alzheimers/dementia, activity can lower anxiety for the both of you. I know, it sounds like a chore coming up with activities each day, but it can be fun too. Take advantage of family visits to talk about some of the things that mom or dad use to enjoy doing and make a list; you may have to make a few adjustments but this is the time to be creative. Here are a couple of examples: If mom or dad was a photographer, or just loves to pose for photographs as my mother-in-law does, try going for a walk and snapping a few pictures of an interesting tree or building with unique architecture. Allow mom or dad to stand in the background waving or giving a thumbs up to make it enjoyable. Allow them to try and take a few pictures as well. Develop and put them in a plain photo album together while recapping the events of the day. Decorate the outside of the photo album with fabrics, silk flowers or even pine cones.
Allow them to be active in the home as well. Everyone wants to be needed and there may still be tasks that they can help with around the home. Be patient as they may not perform it as you would, but allow them to fold laundry, sweep the floor or remove all of the spoons from the table after dinner. You would be surprised as to what they can still do and it can be a stress reliever for you. Whatever you are planning, be consistent and do not be afraid to introduce something new. When you are ready to take a break, just give us a call, Visiting Development Care Group, LLC Our job is to come in with a program designed for mom or dad. While you are away, they will be engaged by a Companion or Homemaker and upon your return, you will see the accomplishments of that activity for the day. Leave it to us, after all, it’s just another day in the life of mom or dad.
Visiting Development Care Group, LLC Qualified Companions & Homemakers PHELPS MEMORIAL HOSPITAL TO HOST SPECIAL SENIOR PROGRAM SERIES FOR SPRING Whether you are in the early stages of planning your retirement or already retired, a free three-part series on “Planning for Your Future” will provide valuable information to guide you along in the process. Hosted by Phelps Memorial Hospital Center, the Westchester County Department of Senior Programs and Services, and the Westchester Public Private Partnership for Aging Services, the programs will be held in the Phelps Auditorium, 701 North Broadway in Sleepy Hollow, from 6-7:30 pm on the first Tuesday of the month. The three presentations are: May 6: Nuts and Bolts: Making Your Money Last Through Retirement, by Robert Leitner, CFP. June 3: How Do I Pay for Long Term Care: Planning With/Without Long Term Care Insurance, by Abe Gruenwald, CLU, and Lee Hoffman, Esq. For more information and reservations, contact Ellen Woods at 914-366-3937.
Let Us Care For the One you Love Family Respite Services • • • • •
Private care in Home Hospital or Rehab Short Term (Min. 4 hrs.) Overnight and Weekends Specializing in Dementia Care Extended Care Helping Care for those who have cared for you! Troy DeCohen President/C.E.O. Viviana DeCohen V.P. Client Development Danna Wood Elder Care Attorney at Law
Contact us Visiting Development Care Group, LLC Serving all of Westchester County
Phone: 914-619-4515 www.visitingcaregroup.com
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May, 2014
Boomers & Beyond - Westchester
10 ways to strengthen seniors’ immune system 6. Wash hands. Washing hands regularly scrubs away germs. And covering sneezes and coughs helps prevent diseases from spreading. 7. Stay positive. A healthy outlook on life boosts endorphins, which make us feel good. Seniors who keep up with activities and hobbies that make them happy or challenge them in an enjoyable way have a better chance of staying positive and healthy. 8. Try some superfoods. Foods like kale, broccoli, avocados, certain mushrooms, berries and others have shown to improve seniors’ immune system performance. Some superfoods even boost cognitive function and help fight Alzheimer’s disease. 9. Consider multivitamin or herbal supplements. An option for increasing nutrients and fighting infections, seniors should talk to their doctors first before adding multivitamins or herbs, such as echinacea, ginseng or probiotics, to their regimen. 10. Stay hydrated. Seniors tend to sense thirst less than younger people. But they need at least eight or nine glasses of fluid a day to keep mucous membranes moist, which lowers the chances of flu or colds. Water, coffee, tea and soup all count.
The older we get, the more susceptible we become to infections, inflammatory diseases and cancer. In fact, the leading causes of death for people over age 65 across the world are respiratory infections, influenza and pneumonia. The following tips can help keep seniors’ immune systems going strong. They can also help seniors who do catch a cold or other minor illness recover faster and prevent a serious health issues. 1. Get vaccinated. Flu vaccines have shown to be effective for around one-quarter of older adults. And seniors who get the flu vaccine have significantly lower rates of sickness and death. 2. Eat a healthy, nutrient-rich diet. Older people tend to eat less and have less variety in their diets. Fruits and vegetables rich in vitamins C and E, beta-carotene, and zinc are essential to good health. So is maintaining a low-sugar, low-fat diet that incorporates whole grains and lean proteins. 3. Exercise. Regular physical activity promotes circulation, heart health, and relaxes the body and mind. Walks, bike rides, yoga classes and other forms of exercise help boost seniors’ immune system performance and ward off infections.
A&J Home Care, Inc. A name that families have learned to trust with the care of their loved ones.
A Licensed Home Care Agency 359 East Main St. Mt. Kisco, NY 10549 When temporary or long term Nursing or personal care is needed, let our professional staff assist you to plan for your individual needs.
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4. Reduce stress. Stress has been linked to a number of illnesses, including stomach problems and heart disease. Whether it’s social stress, isolation or another form, stress can suppress seniors’ immune system, making them more susceptible to viruses.
Please call for a free consultation. We are available 24 hours a day and 7 days a week.
5. Sleep. A natural immune system booster, sleep helps us respond better to stress and inflammation. It’s also shown to improve our response to the flu vaccine.
Tel 914.244.9570 Fax 914.242.0389 ʹ Ajhomecare.com
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Boomers & Beyond - Westchester May, 2014
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Exercising regularly? Keep track of your progress If you’ve started to exercise regularly, it’s a good idea to keep track of how you’re doing. You’re more likely to stick with regular exercise and physical activity if you can see the benefits. To find out just how far you’ve come, you can do these simple tests that measure endurance, strength, balance, and flexibility. To test your endurance, pick a fixed course -- the distance from your house to the corner, once around the track at your local high school, or from one end of the mall to the other -- whatever is convenient. See how long it takes to walk that distance. Do this test every month or so. As your endurance improves, it should take less time. To test your upper body strength, count the number of arm curls you can safely do in 2 minutes. If you are just starting to exercise, you may have to stop and rest before the 2 minutes are up. That’s okay; it still gives you a great starting point to measure your progress. Repeat the test 1 month later. The number of arm curls you can do should increase. To test your lower body strength, count the number of chair stands you can safely do in 2 minutes. You may have to stop and rest before the 2 minutes are up if you are just starting to exercise. That’s okay; you will be able to measure your progress from this starting point. Repeat the test 1 month later. The number of chair stands you can do should increase.
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Boomers & Beyond - Westchester
Seniors: What you need to know about Therapeutic Lifestyle Changes When there is too much LDL cholesterol in your blood, it can put you at risk for a heart attack and heart disease. TLC -- Therapeutic Lifestyle Changes -- can lower your LDL cholesterol and reduce your risk for both of these. Therapeutic Lifestyle Changes, or TLC, is a set of lifestyle changes that can help you lower your LDL cholesterol. TLC is the foundation of LDL-lowering treatment for everyone whose LDL is higher than their goal LDL. TLC includes • a cholesterol-lowering diet (the TLC diet) • weight management • physical activity
The TLC diet recommends • limiting the amount of saturated fat, trans-fat, and cholesterol you eat • eating only enough calories to achieve or maintain a healthy weight • increasing the soluble fiber in your diet by eating foods such as oatmeal, kidney beans, and apples • adding cholesterol-lowering foods, such as juices or margarines that contain plant sterols or stanols. Weight Management Weight management is an important part of TLC. If you are overweight, losing weight can help lower your LDL cholesterol. Weight management is especially important for people who have a group of risk factors that include high triglyceride and/or low HDL levels and being overweight with a large waist measurement. Too large a waist is defined as a waist measurement of 40 or more inches for men and 35 or more inches for women. Physical Activity Physical activity is another important part of TLC. Regular physical activity is recommended for everyone. It can help raise HDL (good) cholesterol levels, and it can help lower LDL (bad) cholesterol levels. Physical activity is especially important for people who have high triglyceride and/or low HDL levels, and people who are overweight with a large waist measurement.
Boomers & Beyond - Westchester May, 2014
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Partnering with families and the community to help seniors stay independent Helping our parents as they age is a bittersweet task. When one realizes for the first time that their mother or father does not demonstrate the same self-assuredness they once had in everyday tasks, it can be quite jarring. It is unchartered territory when searching for the right balance of still being the child while offering the counsel and support of a parent. However, even though this role reversal is difficult, it is also rewarding. Not every child will have the opportunity to give back to their parents the same sense of comfort and security they were given as children, into adulthood and beyond. At Bethel Homes and Services we understand this situation and offer and a number of programs to assist families in helping their loved ones remain independent in their homes and communities. For the senior who lives at home, but needs a little assistance, Bethel’s Home Care can provide services from light housekeeping to wound care. Our Home
Care program has expanded to now include Westchester, Putnam, Bronx, Queens and Manhattan. Also, for the senior who lives with their children, but is alone during the day, or who lives by themselves, and could benefit from supervision and social interaction, Bethel offers an Adult Day Program. This program provides breakfast and lunch, clinical assessment and treatments (for those enrolled in the medical component), interactive programs and events. Says Debbie Sepa of Yorktown, a retired teacher, whose mother, Ms. Antonia Rosario, participates in Bethel’s Adult Day Services program, “This program is just wonderful. My mother has been coming here since October and she loves it. I am so grateful for the people and the program.” The program runs Monday through Friday and door-to-door transportation is available (based on proximity). The Pines, Bethel’s affordable apartments for independent living seniors,
provided
Ms. Debbie Sepa, (left) and her mother, Ms. Antonia Rosario, enjoy a recent event at Bethel’s Adult Day Services Program in Ossining.
also helps seniors retain their autonomy. The monthly rent includes three meals a day, weekly housekeeping, utilities, and scheduled transportation to events. Residents can opt for a “No-Frills” monthly rent as well which does not include services. All residents, however, share a sense of community and peace of mind.
Bethel has been serving the senior community for over 100 years and is pleased to partner with families and communities in providing care to seniors at every level of need, including assisted living and skilled nursing and rehabilitation services. For more information, please call us at 914-739-6700.
ATTORNEYS AT LAW Many Years of Experience Protecting the Legal Interests of the Elderly & Special Needs Populations
Why should I spend money hiring attorneys to do asset protection planning for me and my loved ones? Currently, the monthly cost for nursing home care in New York ranges between $10,000-$15,000, and properly certified home health attendants (nurse aides) can cost as much or more for round- the-clock home care. Statistically, it is likely that most people will need either or both of these care options as they grow older. It is critical that you plan appropriately to best minimize the strain that elder care costs may have on your estate, and to help put you in the best position possible to qualify for benefits that are largely covered by the government, under Medicare or Medicaid. Our firm has attorneys with extensive experience in developing tax-effective action plans for our clients that help protect their assets from government imposition. We have also been very successful in negotiating the complex bureaucratic minefield in which Medicaid is now mired. We have achieved remarkable results for our clients on a host of Medicaid related issues, from obtaining Medicaid approvals for coverage of home care and institutional care benefits, to very accommodative resolutions of Medicaid spousal recovery claims, where the office of Medicaid aggressively pursues the non-institutionalized (i.e., or “community”) spouse for Medicaid benefits provided.
Why should I have a lawyer prepare my will? If you die without a Will, the law, not you, determines how your assets are divided and to whom they are given. A poorly drafted Will may result in a sizeable chunk of your assets not ending up where you want them to go. We are an experienced law firm that can expertly craft your will to address your long-term care, tax, estate planning, and asset protection planning issues. It is in your best interest that planning be done properly so as to minimize the tax burden on your estate. Our experience and skill in the fields of Trusts, Wills, and Estates enables our firm to uniquely tailor estate planning to your individual needs. We will review your entire estate and draft a personalized plan that will best direct the disposition of your assets after death, whether through your Will, or by means of testamentary substitutes (trusts, joint-asset ownership with right of survivorship, or by beneficiary designation in life insurance policies, annuities, or individual retirement accounts).
My father is having difficulty caring for himself. I am afraid he will no longer be able to live on his own. I am worried about finding the money to pay for his care, whether he stays at home or moves to an assisted living facility or nursing home. What do I do?
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Your concerns are certainly daunting, and heart-rending. Our firm offers you a caring hand, an open ear, and uncompromising professional competence, and commitment. We will help find for you solutions that best suit your needs, using the latest tax, trust, and other asset protection strategies available under the law. The law firm of Ely J. Rosenzveig & Associates, P.C. practices in all aspects of elder law, including trust and estate planning, administration, and litigation, tax counsel, asset protection and special needs planning, Medicaid, Medicare, and Social Security disability benefits, guardianships, long term care planning, spousal recovery claims, and Medicaid lien resolutions. Attorney advertising • Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome
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Boomers & Beyond - Westchester May, 2014
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The Fountain of Youth May be in Your Kitchen Dr. Ainat Beniaminovitz of ColumbiaDoctors of the Hudson Valley recommends improved diet and calorie restriction to help prevent disease and premature aging and Retired Community, whose members come from Rockland, Orange, and Bergen Counties, as well as New York City, Dr. Beniaminovitz has addressed the members of the Retired Teachers Center for the past 3 years. “We are so pleased that Dr. Ainat takes the time each year to share with us new research regarding heart disease and the effects of a proper diet, exercise, and lifestyle on cardiovascular health,” commented Ms. Berkowitz. “Our members are retired and active community members who seek programs that offer personal and social growth opportunities.” About Dr. Ainat Beniaminovitz, MD, FACC Dr. Beniaminovitz is a board-certified cardiologist and a fellow of the American College of Cardiology. At ColumbiaDoctors she is a full time clinical cardiologist with a particular interest in heart failure and women’s cardiovascular health. About ColumbiaDoctors of the Hudson Valley With offices in Suffern and Monroe, NY, ColumbiaDoctors of the Hudson Valley provides quality cardiovascular and general medical services to residents of the lower Hudson Valley, with a focus on prevention, diagnostic testing, and treatment. Its physicians and nurses, who have special expertise in women’s heart health and older adults, are committed to providing exceptional and compassionate care at every step of a patient’s treatment. CDHV physicians are faculty members of the Columbia University College of Physicians & Surgeons and affiliated with New York-Presbyterian/Columbia University Medical Center, one of the nation’s top academic medical centers.
SAFER DRIVING
provided
Speaking at a luncheon of the Center for Active and Retired Community in Rockland County, Dr. Ainat Beniaminovitz, MD, FACC, a board certified cardiologist with ColumbiaDoctors of the Hudson Valley, surprises the audience with the message that the Fountain of Youth may be right in their own kitchen. The affiliation with New York-Presbyterian/ Columbia University Medical Center brings the vast resources of one of the nation’s top heart care hospitals close to home. ColumbiaDoctors of the Hudson Valley was founded in 1979 as Ramapo CardioloT:7.5” gists and later renamed Hudson Heart Associates.
ColumbiaDoctors of the Hudson Valley is located at 222 Route 59, Suite 302, Suffern, NY, Phone: 845.368.0100,with offices also at 745 State Route 17M, Suite 203, Monroe, NY, Phone: 845.774.1403. Visit www.ColumbiaDoctorsHudsonValley.com for more information.
CAN SAVE YOU MONEY
NEW YORK DRIVERS: Take the NEW AARP Smart Driver™ Course and you can save 10% on your car insurance!* Refresh your skills and learn safe driving strategies. Sign up today! CLASSROOM COURSE
TO FIND A COURSE NEAR YOU:
$20 for AARP members $25 for non-members
Call 1-866-955-6301 or visit www.aarp.org/NYdrivers
This program is supported by a generous grant from Toyota to AARP Foundation. *Upon completing this course, and if you are the principal operator of a motor vehicle, you will receive a 10% reduction in the base rate of your automobile liability and collision insurance premiums each year for 3 years. You may be eligible to reduce as many as four points from your driving record. Point reduction can only be credited once every 18 months, and does not affect actions mandated by statute or revocations already in place. Other restrictions apply. Consult your agent for details.
T:3”
Did you know there is a common denominator to heart disease, diabetes, cancer, stroke, Alzheimer’s and premature aging? According to Dr. Ainat Beniaminovitz, M.D., F.A.C.C., a board certified cardiologist at ColumbiaDoctors of the Hudson Valley, increasing evidence suggests inflammation can trigger these serious health issues, and more. At a recent luncheon presentation before the Retired Teachers’ Center (A.K.A. Center for Active & Retired Community), Dr. Beniaminovitz demonstrated why improved diet and calorie restriction are the most important ways to turn off the enhanced inflammatory state causing these serious health problems. Dr. Beniaminovitz asked her audience, “Did you know that the fountain of youth and the path to a healthier and longer life may be found in your kitchen?” “Unfortunately, when we overeat and develop a significant amount of midline fat, inflammation increases dramatically,” Dr. Ainat explained. “These midline fat cells secrete many signals that regulate our daily metabolism and influence our daily food struggles, as well as lead to blood clotting, inflammation and rapid cell turnover. This process prevents time for essential cell repair, setting the stage for development of disease processes.” Dr. Beniaminovitz continued, “A good diet has long been thought to be the key to longevity. There is ample data showing a nutrient dense, calorically restricted diet decreases cardiovascular disease by 30%. A good example is the Mediterranean diet emphasizing plant-based foods, healthy fats like olive oil and nuts, fish and poultry. Interestingly, in times of famine, population life expectancy actually increased. Caloric restriction in animals has also been shown to lead to longer life expectancy as well as decreased rate of dementia.” Dr. Beniaminovitz concluded her presentation by summarizing the major point that a healthy, well balanced diet is the key to a healthier and longer life! According to Bilha Berkowitz, Coordinator of the Center for Active
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May, 2014
Boomers & Beyond - Westchester
Spring season flu? Even though the spring season has almost arrived, it doesn’t meant that we’re automatically out of cold and flu season. Colds and the flu linger well into the spring season, especially as temperatures fluctuate from warm to cold and back again. Here are smart tips for protecting senior citizens from the viruses that surface during the months of March, April and May. Wash Hands – This simple task is the most effective one yet. Not only should you wash hands frequently, but also make sure it’s being done correctly. For instance, scrub hands for 20 seconds with soap and then rinse them with warm water. Seniors may need gentle reminders with this, so consider posting the rules by the sink or ask them to sing the Happy Birthday song while washing. Make Time for Exercise – Whether it’s a stroll around the park or a brisk walk around the mall each morning, exercise is a great way to strengthen immunity, keep the blood cells circulating and prevent toxins from building up in the body. Plus, there is no substitute for some fresh air and social interaction.
Develop a Regular Sleep Pattern – Sleeping boosts immunity, and if your loved one does fall ill, sleep is one of the best ways to get better. Eight hours of sleep is optimal, so make sure your loved one has a regular sleep schedule. Stay Hydrated – It’s also important for seniors to stay hydrated. This flushes out toxins and prevents them from dehydration, fatigue and a drop in body temperature. Avoid alcoholic and caffeinated beverages. Eat Nutritiously – The immune-boosting nutrients and vitamins that elders need to stay healthy are best found in foods. Incorporate healthy meals with fresh fruits and vegetables to boost immunity.
Sanitize Hands – When you can’t wash your hands, use an alcohol-based sanitizing solution to kill germs. This is helpful for caregivers who may not always have access to a sink with warm water and soap.
Get Vaccinated – Talk to your loved one’s doctor, but the CDC recommends that particular groups of people get a flu shot, and this includes seniors who are most at risk for viruses and flues.
5-STAR Government Rated Four Consecutive Years
★★★★★ Skilled Nursing Care on Beautiful Long Island Sound • Short Term Rehabilitation • Subacute Care • Long Term Care • Alzheimer/Dementia Care • Respite Services We invite you to join us for lunch and take a tour of our facility
490 Pelham Road • New Rochelle, NY, 10805 www.gicnr.com • email: info@gicnr.com
(914) 636-2800
Boomers & Beyond - Westchester Anthony Macera, M.A. CCC-A, FAAA NY State Licensed and Certified Audiologist & Hearing Aid Dispenser
May, 2014
PAGE 17
A customized hearing healthcare solution will be identified by our New York State licensed and certified audiologist that will address you hearing loss and lifestyle needs. Our digital hearing devices cover the entire spectrum of hearing impairments. They will help you hear and communicate better with those around you. Most of our hearing devices come with an industry leading 4 Year Warranty. We are, also, one of the only area providers of Lyric, the first and only 100% invisible, extended wear hearing aid (worn up to 3 months!). So, why don’t you give us a call at 914-253-9160 to schedule your complimentary hearing consultation and begin your journey to hearing like a PRO! Do you ever have difficulty hearing or understanding speech in restaurants? At parties or family gatherings? Do you feel that people are mumbling all the time? Is the volume on your television creeping up? Is telephone conversation sometimes difficult to understand? If you answered yes to any of these questions, there is a strong possibility that you may have some degree of hearing loss. It has been shown that if a hearing loss is present, a person has to struggle to hear speech. Undue stress is put on that individual. This stress can have a negative effect on a persons quality of life. It can cause that person to avoid many social situations. This, in turn, can cause that person to become more isolated. Over the past 15 years Westchester Audiology and Hearing Aid Specialist, P.C. has been helping people hear and communicate better by providing superior healthcare to their patients.
We are excited to announce the arrival of our new standard 4-year warranty! Our wide selection of styles, capabilities, features and colors ensure that your hearing needs will be met, and our warranty gives you the protection that you deserve.
Anthony Macera, M.A. CCC-A, FAAA NY State Licensed and Certified Audiologist & Hearing Aid Dispenser
Westchester Audiologyand Hearing Aid Specialist p.c.
14 Rye Ridge Plaza, Ste.247, Rye Brook, NY 914-253-9160 www.westchesteraudiology.com &REE 0ARKING s &INANCING !VAILABLE s 0ARLIAMO )TALIANO s (ABLAMOS %SPAĂ—OL
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May, 2014
Grandma & Grandpa are on Facebook! Getting online in senior living is as normal, if not more normal, than playing Bingo these days. According to Pew Research Center and Princeton Survey Research Associates International, 53% of seniors are getting online and using the Internet, 34% are networking on social media sites and 86% are using email. That’s right—grandma’s on FB and Twitter. You may want to ‘watch your P’s and Q’s’ in your daily posts and tweets. It turns out that seniors of today are becoming more savvy when it comes to technology and keeping-up with their grandchildren. After all, why should all the fun be for the younger generations when iPads have such engaging apps, and webcams make long-distance communication with families so much easier? Well, simply put, it’s not. Many baby boomer grandmas and grandpas are hip and wellinformed when it comes to modern-day technology. Six million more seniors are using the Web than five years ago, according to the Nielsen Company. In fact, the number of seniors using the Internet has increased by more than 55 % since 2004.
Boomers & Beyond - Westchester
2051 Baldwin Rd., Yorktown Heights, NY 10598 914.276.7601 www.margelizcenter.com
A UNIQUE APPROACH TO MEMORY CARE AND PHYSICAL WELLNESS. The Margeliz Center Social Adult Program was created by two passionate Occupational Therapists. They bring a fresh approach to already existing ideology, making the Margeliz Center one of a kind. Our programs are developed on proven research and executed with loving kindness, dedication, understanding and delivered with an abundant amount of joy. The Margeliz Center is known for their excellence in providing services to individuals with conditions such as Stroke, Parkinson's, PTSD, Pictured from the left, Margaret M. Dobkowski, COTA, CEO TBI, MS, Alzheimer's and other and Eliza Zelazowski, OTR/ L, CEO. dementia related conditions. Our center includes many complementary programs: Memory Training, Wellness Center, Occupational, Physical and Speech Therapy, Therapeutic Recreation and even in-home-visits from medical specialties such as podiatry, neurology, psychology, internal medicine and more. Please inquire as to how we can assist you with cost reductions.
Phone: 914.276.7601 Email: info@margelizcenter.com
Proud members Cambridge Who's Who registry of executives, professionals and enterpreneures lifetime member
Boomers & Beyond - Westchester May, 2014
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SPECIALIZING IN CARDIOLOGY, INTERNAL MEDICINE AND GASTROENTEROLOGY
HONORED ON
‘Best Doctors’ LISTS YEAR AFTER YEAR
ROBERT BELKIN, MD GABRIELLE BOLTON, MD MARK BORKIN, MD SUSAN CAMPANILE, MD LEO CARDILLO, MD MAXWELL CHAIT, MD ALBERT DELUCA, MD JEFFREY DONIS, MD JOYDEEP GHOSH, MD LAWRENCE GLASSBERG, MD EDUARDO GRANATO, MD CRAIG HJEMDAHL-MONSEN, MD KUMAR KALAPATAPU, MD
SRIRAMA KALAPATAPU, MD RICHARD KAY, MD ANDREW CARL KONTAK, MD ANDREW KUPERSMITH, MD STEVEN LANDAU, MD YAT WA (BETTY) LI, MD SANJAY NAIK, MD DIMPLE PATEL, MD RONALD PRESTON, MD ANTHONY PUCILLO, MD TODD C. PULERWITZ, MD MONICA REYNOLDS, MD JAE RO, MD
WARREN ROSENBLUM, MD ABDOLLAH SEDIGHI, MD INDERPAL SINGH, MD SUSAN SOEIRO, MD DAVID E. SOLARZ, MD CARMINE SORBERA, MD ELENA L. TSAI, MD STEVEN L. VALENSTEIN, MD MELVIN WEISS, MD RONALD WEISSMAN, MD PRESTON WINTERS, MD
Visit us at one of our locations: 19 Bradhurst Avenue Suite 700 Hawthorne, NY 10532 (914)593-7800
15 North Broadway 2nd Floor White Plains, NY 10601 (914)428-6000
5 Coates Drive Suite 2 Goshen, NY 10924 (845)294-1234
30 Greenridge Avenue Suite 207 White Plains, NY 10605 (914)328-8555
180 East Hartsdale Avenue Suite 1E Hartsdale, NY 10530 (914)725-2010
3 Michael Frey Drive Eastchester, NY 10709 (914)337-3500
688 White Plains Road Suite 210 Scarsdale, NY 10583 (914)723-3322
334 Route 202 Bailey Court Somers, NY 10589 (914)277-4367
154 Pike Street Port Jervis, NY 12771 (845) 858-4444
105 Stevens Avenue Suite 101 Mount Vernon, NY 10550 (914)667-8777
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May, 2014
Boomers & Beyond - Westchester
Helping you make the most of precious time
(914) 666-4228 vnahv.org We are available 24 hours a day/7 days a week and provide care in any setting – at home, in a hospital, or in a nursing home.
Your family. Your needs. Our services. Our family-centered approach allows you to focus on what matters most – quality of life and time spent with your loved one. 540 White Plains Road, Ste. 300 Ȉ Tarrytown, NY 10591-5132 Ȉ (914) 666-4228