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FEBRUARY 2022 • ISSUE 192
You’re Not Getting Enough
VITAMIN D Many of us in Upstate New York are vitamin D deficient. Is it a big deal? We chat with local experts about why that’s the case and what we can do to cope with the problem. P. 7
ALSO INSIDE: COVID-19: One in 10 People May Still Be Infectious After 10 Days. WOMEN: 12 Things Every Woman Over 50 Should Know. P. 12 SMART BITES: Move Over Meat, it’s Tempeh Time! P. 11
P. 5
DEPRESSION AND ANXIETY Around 40% of the population is showing symptoms of depression and anxiety, says clinical psychologist Monique Winnett at St. Joe’s. P. 4
Q&A WITH TARA COSTELLO Kelberman Center’s executive director says organization is a leader in providing services to people who have autism. P. 9
BARBARA PIERCE: LOOKING FOR LOVE IN 2022? PART 2
UTICA CURLING CLUB
The Utica Curling Club is the oldest and largest in the Eastern United States. They’re looking for new members to join their ranks. More on P. 10
New Eye Drops Eliminate the Need for Reading Glasses Patients must have a thorough, dilated eye exam before obtaining a prescription of Vuity
“It can cause redness,” Farugia said. “It’s a mild drop, but when you constrict a pupil, you’re at a higher risk for a retinal detachment.”
By Deborah Jeanne Sergeant
A
re you “playing trombone” with your phone or reading materials? Perhaps you’ve bought a pair of reading glasses—or two or three— and still never manage to have them when you need them. Now you have another option: VUITY (pilocarpine hydrochloride ophthalmic solution). The FDA-approved prescription eye drop can help correct age-related blurry near vision (presbyopia) in adults aged 45 to 55. Dana Mitchell, optician with Malara Eyecare & Eyewear Gallery in Liverpool, has not yet prescribed VUITY. However, “the convenience would be awesome for patients who want to try it. Wearing a mask fogs up their reading glasses. Or they don’t like how they look in reading glasses.” Patients use it once daily and can gain improvement in their near vision by three lines on an eye chart. Those who wear contact lenses for their far vision can use VUITY if they wait at least 10 minutes between administering the drops and putting in their contact lenses. Contact lenses tend to absorb chemicals, including medication. Within about 15 to 30 minutes of using the drops, patients experience a notable improvement of their near vision that peaks for one to two hours. For the next three to 10 hours, the effect dissipates. This could help
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someone on the go who does not want to bother carrying reading glasses all the time. “If they’re a good candidate for it, its effectiveness depends on their age and their strength of glasses,” Mitchell said. “These all play a role.” VUITY works by temporarily constricting the pupil. “That increases the depth of field, allowing you to read better,” said John J. Maurillo, optometrist and owner of Village Visions in Skaneateles. “VUITY has a few other things in it to make the drug not burn the eyes as much. It’s buffered a little with other chemicals.” He said that it costs about $80 a bottle, which would last about three to four weeks. He would recommend
it for patients who occasionally want to go out without their reading glasses or bifocal glasses. “They could use the glasses for distance and the drops for reading,” Maurillo said. Like Mitchell, he has not yet had any patients want to try VUITY. Insurance does not cover VUITY. Therese Farugia, optometrist with UR Medicine’s Flaum Eye Institute, said that for those who are very farsighted, “it may not help as much. It gives a very good depth of focus, so it depends on how much the pupil constricts.” She noted that patients interested in VUITY must have a thorough, dilated eye exam before obtaining a prescription for the drops.
Opening a New Door to Addiction Treatment Addiction affects all, regardless of background, race, ethnicity, gender, religion or socio-economic status. In recent years, communities across our nation — including Central New York — have experienced alarming increases in the number of people needing addiction treatment services. As the longest running treatment program in the region, Crouse Health’s Addiction Treatment Services remains committed to our mission to expand access to care and ensure delivery of high-quality addiction and mental health treatment in our community. We are proud of our new facility that matches the caliber of our staff and provides a nurturing, safe and uplifting environment that is already greatly enhancing our focus on holistic patient care: The Bill & Sandra Pomeroy Treatment Center at Crouse Health. If you, a loved one, friend or colleague is in need of treatment for substance use disorder, please contact us at 315-470-8304 or visit crouse.org/addiction. Bill & Sandra Pomeroy Treatment Center in Syracuse. The two-story, 42,000 square-foot facility at 2775 Erie Blvd., East, replaces the 100-year-old former location of Crouse’s outpatient treatment services at 410 South Crouse Avenue.
Page 2 • IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • February 2022
• Do not use VUITY if you are allergic to any of the ingredients. • Use caution when driving at night or performing hazardous activities in poor lighting. • Temporary problems when changing focus between near and distant objects may occur. Do not drive or use machinery if vision is not clear. • If you wear contact lenses, they should be removed prior to VUITY use. Wait 10 minutes after dosing before reinserting contact lenses. • Do not touch the dropper tip to any surface as this may contaminate the contents. • If more than one topical eye medication is being used, the medicines must be administered at least five minutes apart. • The most common side effects are headache and eye redness. Source: www.vuity.com website:
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More Than 10 Million People Died of Cancer Worldwide in 2019
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ancer remains a major killer, with 10 million deaths reported worldwide in 2019. More than 23 million new cases were documented globally in 2019, according to researchers at the University of Washington School of Medicine. By comparison, in 2010 there were 8.29 million cancer deaths worldwide and fewer than 19 million new cases. Deaths were nearly 21% higher in 2019 than 2010, and cases were about 26% higher, the researchers say. The study also highlighted the global disparities in treating the disease. “Ensuring that global progress against cancer burden is equitable is crucial,” said lead author, physician Jonathan Kocarnik, a research scientist at the university’s Institute of Health Metrics and Evaluation. “This will require efforts to reduce disparities in cancer prevention, treatment and survival, and the incorporation of local needs and knowledge into tailored national cancer control plans,” Kocarnik said in a university news release. The researchers looked at 204 countries and territories, estimating cancer burden and trends. They found that cancer was second to cardiovascular disease in the number of deaths among 22 groups of diseases and injuries. Lung cancer was the leading cause of cancer deaths in 119 countries and territories for males and 27 countries and territories for females. Breast cancer was the leading cause of cancer-related deaths among females worldwide, including for 119 countries. Also, lung cancer, colon cancer, stomach cancer, breast cancer and liver cancer accounted for the most years lived with ill health and disability, according to the study. There was a glimmer of good news: After adjusting for age, the researchers found death and incidence rates decreased by about 6% and around 1%, respectively. The age-standardized death rate decreased in 131 countries and territories, and the incidence rate fell in 75 countries and territories. Researchers called these small declines promising but cautioned there may be setbacks in cancer care and outcomes due to COVID-19. The report was published Dec. 30 in JAMA Oncology. It is part of the Global Burden of Diseases, Injuries, and Risk Factors Study 2019.
Your Doctor
By Chris Motola
Monique W. Winnett, Psy. D. Depression and anxiety rising across the board, to the point where around 40% of the population is showing symptoms, says clinical psychologist at St. Joe’s Q: The past two years have caused an upheaval in a lot of people’s lives. What kind of impact are you seeing on mental health due to the pandemic, the restrictions that have attempted to address it, and the resulting social climate? A: As everyone says, these are unprecedented times and, unfortunately, what we’re seeing in the behavioral health field are upticks in the percentages of people who are endorsing symptoms of depression and anxiety. We’re seeing more and more people seeking treatment who have never done so before. We’re especially seeing it from adolescent and early adulthood groups. Q: I imagine they’re a group that’s had their lives disrupted more than most. Many haven’t been able to attend school in person consistently or have what we might consider normal childhood interactions. A: I think there are a couple contributing factors here. Developmentally, it’s an age group where socialization and forming peer relationships are very critical. Probably even more so than at any other stage of development. To your point, they’ve really been halted in how much time they’ve been able to spend socializing with their peers and doing typical activities and events. The second contributing factor is that, because of that, more and more people within those age ranges have been turning to technology and social media for company, companionship, entertainment and distraction. Unfortunately one of the things we know about engaging with electronics on this level, particularly social media, is that it also tends to increase symptoms of depression and anxiety. So I think, unfortunately, people are getting hurt from both angles there.
think there are risks and benefits in either direction and, unfortunately, it’s been a bit of a moving target. As we’ve learned more and more about the virus, people’s opinions have changed. I think most people are doing that best that they can and making the choices that they feel are most appropriate for themselves and their families, their neighbors. But I think people’s perspectives, their knowledge tends to be different. Your idea of what’s best and healthiest for your family may look different than what I think is best for mine. Q: Aside from adolescents and young adults, who is most vulnerable to developing mental health issues at a time like this? A: Honestly? Just about everyone. We’ve seen rates of depression and anxiety rise across the board, to the point where around 40% of the population is endorsing symptoms of depression and anxiety. I think there was a time when people viewed mental health and behavioral issues in a certain light, and there was a lot of stigma around it. I think the last year and a half has really brought to light how it’s something that can impact anybody. Q: That’s a huge number, 40%. What was it prior to the pandemic? A: Prior to coronavirus, the proportion of people endorsing symptoms of anxiety and depression was a little under 30%. I think the numbers were highest last winter, which shouldn’t be that surprising, especially in climates like ours. It’s been a pretty marked jump in the number of people showing symptoms and seeking treatment.
Q: Do you think we’re adequately grappling with the mental, emotional and social costs of our COVID-19 policies? Are people doing cost-benefit analysis on it or are they largely ignoring the costs? A: I think people are at different stages along that continuum. I
Page 4 • IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • February 2022
Q: We’re about to head
into winter again with the virus still around. What can people do to stay mentally healthy? A: To the degree that you can do so safely, social interaction is very important, especially if you can be with people physically. Human beings are social creatures, so depriving ourselves of that can be setting ourselves up for failure. I think there’s also really strong evidence for the impact of physical activity and exercise on behavioral health and reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression. So I’d advise people to stay active and engage in activities that are pleasurable to them, whether that’s coming up with new mentally stimulating hobbies or interests that they can do in a safe way. Q: How do you go about helping people who seek treatment? A: There are some strong therapeutic interventions that can be used to target depression and anxiety. There are a lot of different theories and frameworks, but I do a lot of cognitive behavioral therapy with my patients, which is really helping patients to look at the way they’re thinking about things, the actions and behaviors, and the relationship those have with how they’re feeling. It helps to raise awareness of those things and what we’re doing on a daily basis. It can really go a long way in terms of symptom reduction. And, of course, for some of my patients the addition of a low dose of medication can be helpful. Q: Do you see more of a role for behavioral health in developing or tweaking public policies during crises like these? A: I think so. I think we’ve made a lot of progress toward reducing the stigma around mental health issues, but we could always do better, helping people seek help earlier. We do know that long-term behavioral health conditions can have a negative impact not only in terms of people’s emotional health, but there physical health. There definitely have been a lot of negative impacts from COVID, but I think we’re seeing more people willing to acknowledge their own symptoms and seek treatment. Q: Do you anticipate any longterm impacts from this event? A: It’s too early to have any longitudinal data. While I think humans are pretty resilient, traumatic, life-altering experiences can take an impact on someone. It takes an impact in terms of how they view themselves, their world and how safe or not they feel. We do know that when people are consumed with more immediate issues, a lot of our higher order functioning gets put on the back burner and we kind of go into a state of fight or flight. So we’ll likely see impacts down the road on both an individual and societal level.
Lifelines
Name: Monique W. Winnett, Psy. D. Position: Clinical psychologist at St. Joseph’s Hospital Health Center Hometown: Corning Education: University of Hartford Affiliations: St. Joseph’s Hospital Health Center Organizations: American Psychological Association Family: Husband, three children Hobbies: Exercising, travel
HOW CAN NY CONNECTS HELP? Free, easy, local access to information and assistance about long term care services and supports… regardless of age, income, or payor source. Get help with community services/supports designed to help people remain healthy and independent for Older Adults, Adults or Children with Disabilities as well as their Families and Caregivers. For answers to all your questions Contact us at 800-342-9871 or call one of the NY Connects partnering agencies at 315-697-5700 (Madison Office for the Aging) or 315-427-3122 (ARISE). You may also look for services and support at www.nyconnects.ny.gov
One in 10 People May Still Be Infectious for COVID-19 After 10 Days
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ne in 10 people may have clinically relevant levels of potentially infectious SARSCoV-2 past the 10-day quarantine period, according to new research. The study, led by the University of Exeter and funded by Animal Free Research UK, used a newly adapted test which can detect whether the virus was potentially still active. It was applied to samples from 176 people in Exeter who had tested positive on standard PCR tests. The study, published in the International Journal of Infectious Diseases found that 13% of people still exhibited clinically relevant levels of virus after 10 days, meaning they could potentially still be infectious. Some people retained these levels for up to 68 days. The authors believe this new test should be applied in settings where people are vulnerable, to stop the spread of COVID-19. Professor Lorna Harries, of the University of Exeter Medical School, oversaw the study. She said: “While this is a relatively small study, our results suggest that potentially active virus may sometimes persist beyond a 10-day period, and could pose a potential risk of onward transmission. Furthermore, there was nothing clinically remarkable about these people, which means we wouldn’t be able to predict who they are.” Conventional PCR tests work by testing for the presence of viral fragments. While they can tell if someone has recently had the virus, they cannot detect whether it is still active, and the person is infectious. The test
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used in the latest study however gives a positive result only when the virus is active and potentially capable of onward transmission. Lead author Merlin Davies, of the University of Exeter Medical School, said: “In some settings, such as people returning to care homes after illness, people continuing to be infectious after 10 days could pose a serious public health risk. We may need to ensure people in those setting have a negative active virus test to ensure people are no longer infectious. We now want to conduct larger trials to investigate this further.” Animal Free Research UK CEO, Carla Owen, said: “The University of Exeter team’s discovery is exciting and potentially very important. Once more, it shows how focusing exclusively on human biology during medical research can produce results that are more reliable and more likely to benefit humans and animals. “Pioneering animal free work is providing the best chance of not only defeating COVID-19 but also finding better treatments for all human diseases. “The results also send a loud and clear message to the government to better fund modern medical research and make the UK a world leader in cutting edge, kinder science.” The research is a collaboration between the University of Exeter Medical School, the Royal Devon & Exeter NHS Foundation Trust, and the NIHR Exeter Clinical Research Facility.
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February 2022 • IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • Page 5
Live Alone & Thrive
By Gwenn Voelckers
Practical tips, advice and hope for those who live alone
Will You Be Mine? Dating Tips for Finding that Special Someone
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’m often asked by readers and those who have attended my “Live Alone and Thrive” workshops whether I ever date. My answer is unequivocally “yes!” More often than not, people are surprised by my answer. I like the question, because it gives me a chance to remind everyone that living alone with success isn’t about mastering the art of becoming a hermit. It doesn’t mean abandoning the idea of sharing a life with someone special. I’ve said it before and it bears repeating: Living alone doesn’t mean being alone. Many people satisfy their need and desire to be with others by developing a great group of friends, including family members. Some want more though, and long for romance and the exclusive domain of a loving relationship. It is to this latter group that I dedicate this column. If the idea of dating in mid-life following the loss of a long-term relationship or marriage seems daunting, know that you are not alone. I’ve talked with many older women and men who have resigned themselves to “terminal singlehood,” after having tried unsuccessfully to enter the dating scene. It only takes a few disappointments and rejections to send people
running for cover. But like any challenge, if you approach dating with care, a satisfying and lasting relationship is possible at any age. Below are a few tips I’ve assembled from my own experience and the experiences of others that may help you jump-start your search for a loving companion: • Define what dating means to you. If you haven’t dated in years (perhaps in decades), the term “dating” may suggest the first step in a predictable path to marriage. These days, dating is, well, dating. And you can define it anyway you like. Maybe you’re looking for a number of companions with whom you could enjoy movies, dinner, intimacy, etc. Perhaps you just want someone to join you for special events. Or you may be on a serious quest to find a new life partner. Your definition — your dating goal — will shape the style and pace of your search. • Know what you’re looking for. I remember reading a magazine article recently in which the author detailed her experience of writing down all the things she wanted in a man, and then — lo and behold — having the man of her dreams stroll
right into her life. Was it coincidence? Magic? Who knows, but the exercise has merit. Thinking about what you want as well as what’s unacceptable will help you refine your search and improve your chances of finding a compatible partner. • Be yourself. This is no time to try to become the person you wish you were or you think others will find attractive. One of the advantages of being a little older is increased self-awareness and the confidence to be who you truly are. Accept and embrace yourself “as is.” Pretending to be otherwise will only compromise your chances of meeting someone who loves you just the way you are. • Spread the word. If you want to meet someone, make your search a priority and let friends and family know you’re looking. Don’t be apologetic about expressing your desire to find a companion. It might sound like this: “You know it’s been a while, and I’m feeling ready to meet someone. May I ask a favor? Would you keep me in mind if you run into someone you think might be a good fit for me?” Other ways to initiate your search include joining a matchmaking website or by subscribing to a dating service. Having had no experience with these methods, I can only offer this bit of cautionary advice: It’s potentially risky, so take precautions. There’s a lot written on this subject, so conduct a web search to learn how best to protect yourself.
• Have fun and keep your expectations in check. We’ve all suffered the occasional bad date or rejection. Try not to let that stop you from meeting new people and pursuing that special someone. Dating, just as networking for a new job, can put you in the company of interesting, stimulating people. Even if your heart doesn’t go pitter-patter, you’ll be out in the world and expanding your experiences and circle of friends. So give it a whirl. Muster your courage and pick up the phone, sign up, or show up to fulfill your heart’s desire.
• Put yourself with like-minded people. Do you like music? Are you an athlete? Is reading your passion?
Gwenn Voelckers is the founder and facilitator of Alone and Content, empowerment workshops for women and author of “Alone and Content,” a collection of inspiring essays for those who live alone. For information about her workshops, to purchase her book, or invite her to speak, visit www. aloneandcontent.com
s your teen staring at her smartphone all day? There are many things parents can do to protect kids from the potentially negative effects of social media, experts say. While there are positive aspects to social media, there’s evidence it can pose risks to teens’ mental health due to issues such as bullying, body image concerns and other social pressures. “The reality is that social media is part of the world we live in, and it’s not going away,” said Mari Radzik, a clinical psychologist in the division of adolescent and young adult medicine at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles. “We can’t just take away our kids’ phones or computers. It’s about figuring out how we can guide them on using and navigating these tools,” Radzik said in a hospital news release. Some signs of social media-related problems in teens include changes in mood, eating and sleep habits, as well as isolating in their room. In such cases, parents might want to begin a discussion about their teen’s social media use by using “I” instead of “you” statements, Radzik suggested. Instead of saying, “You’re on Instagram way too much and that’s bad for you,” try, “I noticed this and I’m really worried. Can we talk about it?” If your teen doesn’t want to talk at that moment, let them know you’ll be there when they feel ready. “Berating will make a young
person shut down,” Radzik said. “Or sometimes parents will dig through their child’s social media accounts and that can feel invasive. The approach has to come from a place of caring and concern, rather than something punitive or accusatory.” Parents should check in frequently and pay attention to their teens’ media use, said Sarah Voyer, lead social worker in the division of psychiatry at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles. Parents may want to ask their teens how they use social media -— do they share updates with their friends, follow certain celebrities or influencers, or are they seeking some kind of advice or help — and how they feel when they use it, Voyer said. If you’re certain that social media is affecting your teen’s mental health, suggest they take a break or even delete their account. “There are some kids who can break the cycle, and sometimes it takes the parent to help with that,” Radzik said. Before a child begins to use social media, parents should set parameters, according to Radzik. “It can be problematic when children are given regular access to cellphones at an early age,” she said. “I understand the need to use it at times, especially age-appropriate material. But as parents we need to encourage a curiosity of the world around them and use creativity tools rather than rely on social media all the time.”
I
Worried About Your Teen’s Social Media Use? Experts Offer Help
Or birdwatching? We all enjoy being with people who share our interests. One way to kick-start your dating adventure is to attend gatherings, classes, and social functions that attract the kind of partner you are looking for. I’ve heard from many happy couples who met on the pickleball court, in a book club, hiking group just for singles, dance lessons that didn’t require partners, or in a support group that caters to divorced or widowed men and women. Others met while volunteering or supporting a cause they believe in. To be successful, you need to get out of the house.
Page 6 • IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • February 2022
Between You & Me
By Barbara Pierce
Looking for Love? - Part 2
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n the January issue, I gave suggestions for those who are serious about making a relationship happen. I suggested that you consider all the reasons you’re not in a relationship now. Then, consider this: If you really want to be in a relationship, whatever your reasons are, no reason is good enough. That’s right. There is no reason not to be in a relationship, if you really want to. Here’s the real reason: You’re on the fence. You’re ambivalent, being pulled in two directions. You’re not totally committed to finding someone and you’re not totally committed to being single. Ambivalence is the most powerful reason why people are single. You may not even be aware of this. Whether you’re aware of it or not, it’s sabotaging your efforts to be in a relationship. If finding love isn’t your top priority, you may be talking as if you want love, but holding back on your follow through. Learning this changed my life. Officially I was “looking” for someone. But I never found him. Not even close. When I realized I made it my priority, I found a man I married. If you’re ambivalent, what do
you do? How do you get off the fence? The only thing you can do is start acting “as if.” One side of the fence is being single. You may want to stay on that side of the fence for now; that’s fine. Then start acting as if you really enjoy being single; throw yourself wholeheartedly into being single. Be glad you don’t have to deal with the complications of another person. On the other side of the fence is being in a relationship. If you really want to be in a relationship, you need to make it your priority. You need to be determined to reach this goal and overcome all the obstacles. Consider it like looking for a job—it’s hard and scary, but you have to do it. You’re organized in your efforts, you advertise yourself, you put on your good clothes and go to interviews. You may not get the job, but you don’t give up your search. Eventually, you find the right job. What you do in looking for a relationship is go for volume. You may have to meet 89 potential partners before 90 is the one. It’s simple logic, the more people you met, the greater your chances of finding the right one. Most people these days meet online. It did work for me, but you
need to be very, very cautious. I suggest meeting for coffee, for an hour. That’s enough time to tell if it’s going anywhere. Another good way to meet someone is through friends. Let all your friends know you’re looking, and then remind them from time to time. Or, at work. Put yourself in the path of any potentials for you. Let your coworkers know you’re looking. If you’re not working, volunteer. Choose a setting that has a large pool of potential candidates for you. Go to activities and events that appeal to you. Things like singles groups, adult education classes, a bookstore, restaurant, dancing, hiking club. Find things online. Put them on your calendar and show up. It’s best to go alone, because you’re more approachable by yourself. Walking into a roomful of strangers is scary. So pretend you a greeter for the activity, position yourself near the door, or near the refreshments. Catch the eye of people coming in and smile. Keep your body posture open, communicate with body language that you’re approachable. Make eye contact, smile, stay calm, fake it. Most everyone is as uncomfortable as you. Start a conversation with a person who looks interesting. It doesn’t matter what you say; it’s OK to sound stupid. The point is simply to get the conversation started. You’ll be doing the other person a favor. Flattery is something we all like to hear. Or, ask an open-ended question: “How did you hear about
this place?” “Is the food good here?” “Have you been here before?” If that person who looks so perfect for you doesn’t respond, don’t take it personally. You’re not the right sex, color, body build, etc. for them. Move on. Go to any activity with the frame of mind that this is just one thing. It’s not a big deal. You probably won’t meet anyone; you may have to go back. Once you’ve made a connection, suggest doing something together. Or exchange numbers. And follow up. Early on in the relationship; talk about what you both want from a relationship. Save yourself pain by knowing this early on. Don’t put any energy into a relationship that doesn’t have a chance to go where you want it to go. If you’d like more advice on this (or another subject), send an email to BarbaraPierce06@yahoo.com and I’ll be happy to respond.
Barbara Pierce is a retired licensed clinical social worker with many years of experience helping people. If you would like to purchase a copy of her book, “When You Come to the Edge: Aging” or if you have questions for her, contact her at barbarapierce06@yahoo.com.
HAPPY
BABIES BORN IN ONEIDA
oneidahealth.org
February 2022 • IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • Page 7
CALENDAR of HEALTH EVENTS
American Cancer Society Prepares for Spring with the Return of Daffodil Days The American Cancer Society (ACS) is ready to say goodbye to winter with the return of the annual Daffodil Days campaign. This colorful first flower of spring represents a campaign that brings hope to cancer
patients, their caregivers, and families, while providing much-needed funding to support the groundbreaking research, programs, and services of the American Cancer Society. “Cancer touches all of us in one way or another,” noted Robert Elinskas, senior community development manager for the American Cancer Society, “By supporting the American Cancer Society through Daffodil Days, you are not only warming the hearts of others with these beautiful first flowers of spring,
but you are also helping to advance the American Cancer Society mission of creating a world without cancer through the critical areas of discovery, advocacy, and patient support.” For many years, individuals, small businesses, and large corporations have supported ACS through the Daffodil Days campaign by making donations for flowers that have been used to brighten the spirits of loved ones or as a way to say thank you to employees, friends, and colleagues. Daffodils can be ordered by making a donation of $10 for a regular bunch or $15 for potted mini daffodils. Tulips can be ordered by the bunch for a $15 donation. For a $25 donation, donors can order a Gift of Hope — bunches of daffodils that the American Cancer Society delivers to patients in hospitals, treatment centers, and other local facilities. Orders are being taken now through Feb. 22. Flowers arrive the
week of March 21. For information on ordering flowers in your workplace, please contact Robert Elinskas at 315.741.5409 or emailing Robert. Elinskas@cancer.org.
9.7% increase was not due to claims. The majority of the increase was due to CMS providing needed financial support to hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, testing sites, physician practices and every state to weather the crisis. If this emergency funding for providers is excluded, the net increase in healthcare spending due to claims was about 2%. Compared to normal non-COVID-19 years, a 2% increase in costs due to claims is relatively low. That can be attributed to people still delaying care and hospitals having to cancel elective surgeries again. Consequently, because of profit limits established by the ACA, commercial insurers rebated over $2 billion to consumers via premium credits, check or debit cards in 2020. The rebate was $1.3 billion in 2019. The omicron variant is the monkey wrench making it difficult for industry analysts and actuaries to predict 2022 costs. Once again, as in 2020, hospitals and surgery centers are forced to cancel elective surgeries in reaction to the continuing pandemic and staffing shortages. A recent survey by the Kaiser Family Foundation revealed almost half of us did not bother to seek care due to household financial constraints and high out-ofpocket costs.
ment action, which involved 345 charged defendants across 51 federal districts, including more than 100 doctors, nurses and other licensed medical professionals. These defendants were collectively charged with submitting more than $6 billion in allegedly false and fraudulent claims to federal health care programs and private insurers, including more than $4.5 billion connected to schemes that involved telemedicine fraud, more than $845 million connected to substance abuse treatment facilities, or “sober homes,” and more than $806 million connected to other health care fraud and illegal opioid distribution schemes across the country. This enforcement initiative included cases charged during an unprecedented national health emergency.
Healthcare in a Minute
By George W. Chapman
Provider Burnout: Many Physicians, Nurses Inclined to Retire Earlier Than Planned
A
recent survey by the American Medical Association (AMA) revealed 20% of physicians and 40% of nurses are inclined to retire or quit, earlier than planned, within two years. In addition to early retirement, about a third of these providers intend to decrease their hours until then in order to reduce stress, get their lives back and avoid potential infection or illness. Industry observers, the AMA and the ANA, are predicting new medical and nursing school graduates will not fill the near
future deficit. The AMA estimates the annual impact of earlier retirement and reduced hours to be $4.6 billion. The No. 1 complaint after burnout among providers is feeling undervalued. While employers can adopt strategies to mitigate stress and burnout, both nurses and physicians cited the drastic increase in non-compliant, belligerent, demanding and abusive consumers, especially among the unvaccinated, as a major reason for feeling undervalued.
Vaccine Profiteering
companies. These bills typically emanate from services provided to you via your local emergency room. Unsuspecting consumers, who correctly go to their in-network emergency department, unknowingly receive services from an out-ofnetwork contract physician company. Sometimes, these bills come from the company that supplies the hospital with emergency room physicians. When it comes to out of network services, your insurance company will often pay you directly based upon what it would have paid an in-network physician. You then get the “surprise” bill from the out of network company leaving you to make up the difference between their bill and the check you received from your insurance company. It is often a difference of hundreds of dollars. In fairness to hospitals, especially rural and isolated ones, it is difficult if not impossible to attract and retain certain physicians, so they are forced to use outside contract groups. Contract groups will either have to accept in-network payments from local insurers or go to arbitration to settle with insurers. In any case, the consumer is now held harmless.
Perhaps in anticipation of negotiating prices with Medicare, drug manufacturers raised prices on 434 common drugs an average of 5.2%. Leading the way with higher than average increases were vaccine producers Pfizer, Moderna and BioNtech. Apparently, they really need the money. According to consumer advocate People’s Vaccine Alliance, based on financials released by these three drug manufacturers, collectively they will earn $34 billion in pretax profits. That comes to $65,000 profit a minute or $93 million a day. Nearly all (99%) of their vaccine supplies have been sold to wealthy countries, leaving the poorer countries to fend for themselves. Despite more than $8 billion in R&D funding from the US taxpayers, all three drug companies have outright refused to share their technology or know–how with struggling countries. The US has struck a “deal” to purchase 20 million doses of Pfizer’s anti-viral drug, Paxlovid, for more than $10 billion. The anti-viral pill and vaccines will result is sales between $50 billion and $60 billion.
No More Surprises
Effective January 2022, you will no longer be liable for what has been deemed “surprise medical bills.” These are bills from contract physician companies that are considered out of network by your insurance
2020 Costs
Total healthcare spending increased a staggering 9.7% in 2020. (It increased 4.3% in 2019. The jury and data are still out for 2021.) But that is misleading as most of the
Funding Terrorism?
A federal circuit court will review a unique complaint, filed under the federal anti-terrorism act, against drug manufacturers Pfizer, AstraZeneca, J&J and Roche. The complaint, filed on behalf of the 395 Americans either killed or wounded in Iraq, alleges the pharmaceutical companies won contracts by bribing officials in the terrorist-controlled (Jaydsh al-Mahdi) Iraq health ministry. The funds were then used to finance attacks on Americans. The four companies have denied the charges.
Fraud
In September 2020, the Criminal Division’s Health Care Fraud Unit organized and led a historic national takedown, in collaboration with USAOs, HHS-OIG, FBI, the Drug Enforcement Administration and other federal and state partners. Assistant Attorney General Brian Rabbitt announced this nationwide enforce-
Page 8 • IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • February 2022
Climate Change and Health
The healthcare industry knows that curing cancer and saving lives on one hand is all for naught if on the other hand carbon emissions are killing more than saved. Five percent of global carbon emissions are from healthcare. (That’s more than the aviation industry.) In the US, healthcare accounts for 10% of carbon emissions. For the first time, the 2021 U.N Climate Change Conference listed public health as a priority. The Health Care Without Harm advocacy group is lobbying Washington to establish an Office of Climate Change and Health Equity. HCWH president Gary Cohen succinctly summarizes their philosophy proclaiming “You can’t have healthy people on a sick planet.” The advocacy group has established a formal coalition of 600 hospitals to develop climate change solutions for the industry and the government. George W. Chapman is a healthcare business consultant who works exclusively with physicians, hospitals and healthcare organizations. He operates GW Chapman Consulting based in Syracuse. Email him at gwc@gwchapmanconsulting.com.
own stand-alone nonprofit. Kelberservices are about anyone who man is a leader in providing services needs or identifies a child who may to people who have autism. have autism can access this service. Q: I understand that Dr. Kelberman, Individuals can call us and talk about for whom the organization bears his their concerns they have for their name, was influential in getting the center child. So this navigation system we off the ground. Can you elaborate a bit have helps parents to guide them about that? through the process of getting help A: Well Dr. Kelberman is the and that information we give out is founder and current board president all free. We also have our clinical serof the Kelberman Center. His son, vices which include all our therapies, Harry, who is autistic, is a very imour evaluations, parent supports portant part of this organization. The and all social work services. We offer center has been built around Harry educational services which is our and his needs and what I mean by preschool services where we offer that is Harry is now in his 20s. Dr. behavioral therapists and aides in the Kelberman, being a parent, realized class room to assist the teacher. We that many families who have a child offer school consultations services who has autism, needs a place where to Oneida, Herkimer and Madison they could go and receive services, county school systems where we can from early childhood throughout the provide behavioral supports if needadult life cycle which the Kelberman ed. There are other services we offer Center provides. as well and more information can be Q: How many people are employed by obtained by visiting our website. the center? Q: Do you offer any residential A: We have approximately 350 services? staff that would include both fullA: Yes, we do have a residentime as well as part-time staff. tial program. We have four homes Q: What is your annual operational for those clients who have extreme budget? behavioral issues and we provide A: $15 million. 24/7 care. Here at our new facility on Q: Where does the Kelberman Center Sunset Avenue in Utica, we have 60 receive its money to run the organization? apartments. Out of the 60, 12 are for A: We have private -ay. We also clients with autism, the remaining receive funding through the state 48 are for anyone regardless if they —Medicaid—and we receive all have a disability or not as long as commercial insurances as well. The they meet certain income requirebulk of our funding does however ments. Again, more information can come from the state. We also conbe obtained regarding these services duct several fundraisers throughout as well as all our services by visiting the year. One of our big events is our website. The Walk for Autism. That is held Q: Is the need for your services more in April. Because of the COVID-19 now than say two or three years ago? pandemic the last two years the walk A: I wouldn’t say it’s more or MP Order Proposal# was virtual. We are hoping that this less. Though I would say it’s pretty By David Podos he classification of: April we go live. Last year we raised Ad much status quo. The big problem I Q: How long have you been executive Valley Community College. I started more than $120,000! Our other fundLetter see is not that there isn’t a need but director of the Kelberman Center? my professional career at Rome Hosraiser is called Pedal for Autism. Last rather many people do not know A: I have been executive director pital, where I was a mental health year was our first year and we raised we exist and that we offer all these 2014 since June of 2020. therapist. From there I went to work more than $60,000. We had about services. We presently serve more Q: What is your professional backfor Oneida County Department of 25 riders last year. This year we are than 1,000 clients per year. With more Acct# A1ZGFE Sales Rep: GRIMALDI, JENNIFER L Size: HCN6 Ad Id: AMZHMA1 Contract# 5544766 ground and education? Mental Heath as the director of menanticipating doubling that number. awareness of who we are and what A: I am a social worker and tal health and substance abuse serThat event takes place in Rome, we do I firmly believe that number MP Order Proposal# received my master’s vices. I eventually made my way to New York, where we are looking toAd would double. he classification of: degree in social work from the University of Albany. start a career with Upstate Cerebral expand our services. Letter I received my undergraduate degree Palsy where I was vice president of Q: What are the services that the For more information visit: kelberbehavioral services. The Kelberman center offers to its clients? mancenter.org or call the administrative 2 0 1 4 in psychology from Utica College and received my two-year degree in Center, where I am now, came out A: First and foremost we offer office at 315-797-6241. Acct# A1ZGFE Sales Rep: GRIMALDI, JENNIFER L Size: HCN6 Ad Id: AMZHMA1 Contract# 5544766 chemical dependency from Mohawk of UCP in 2005 and then became its family navigation services. Those
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Kelberman Center’s executive director says organization is a leader in providing services to people who have autism. It serves 1,000 clients per year
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February 2022 • IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • Page 9
Utica Curling Club
The oldest and largest curling club in the Eastern U.S., they are looking for new members to join the ranks By Daniel Baldwin
C
urling is a winter sport that is popular all throughout Canada and Scotland. It involves one team member releasing a flat, rounded stone on the ice and two other members constantly sweeping the ice surface in front of the gliding stone, trying to control the speed of the flat-rounded object, and guide and curve it inside the house (blue circle painted on the ice) and on or near the button (the white dot at the center of the house). Curling is gaining popularity in the U.S., according to Sports Illustrated. Americans do not have to travel all the way up north to try this sport out, as there are more than 180 curling clubs and facilities north, south, east, and west of the U.S., according to Usacurling.com. There is even one curling club located right in the Mohawk Valley on Clark Mills Road in Whitesboro. This club is known as the Utica Curling Club. Jim Rishel, the club’s current president, said that the Utica Curling Club is one of the oldest continuously operating curling clubs in the U.S. According to the club’s website, stone cutter and former Erie Canal Expansion worker Benjamin Allen started the club in 1868. Rishel said the club moved its headquarters four times during the long-running span. The last relocation, in 1995, was unexpected, as the club’s old headquarters, on Francis Street in Utica, was destroyed by a fire. The club members had to scramble to find a new location. Thanks to the support from the other curling clubs, the Utica Curling Club still continued on even without its main attraction. The club moved into the new and now current curling facility in Whitesboro in 1996.
“The old club burned down in Utica,” Rishel said. “The board and several club members organized an attempt to open another facility as quickly as possible without losing any time. Other clubs in the state allowed our members to curl at their facilities, so that we can remain as a continuous curling club.” The Utica Curling Club is also known to be the largest curling club in the East Coast, according to Syracuse.com. Former club president Bob Risley said that the club right now has 275 members. The Whitesboro curling facility has six sheets of ice, which according to Rishel, is more than any
other curling ice rink in New York State. The club hosted many national, international and televised games, or bonspiels, at their facilities throughout the years. They received a large number of spectators and team entries at each of their bonspiels. People from out of state, the West Coast, Canada and even Scotland traveled all the way to Whitesboro to compete in these tournaments. “We have a large number of bonspiels throughout the year,” Rishel said. “Some of them are only for people in our club. Where we really make our bigger money is from our outside bonspiel, where people from out of the state and country, come in, pay an entry fee, and curl in a real tournament here over a three- or four-day period. It being the largest curling club in Eastern US is a treat. We have a kitchen and tables where we can seat and feed everybody. We’ve hosted a team from Scotland. We curled with the Ontario, Canada Curling Club and the Quebec Curling Association here [ in Whitesboro].
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Page 10 • IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • February 2022
We’re able to host bonspiels that others struggle to host. We are getting teams from farther and farther away. We reach out to everyone.” The Utica Curling Club even received more national praise when a few of its members won a national bonspiel in Colorado. People who are members of the Utica Curling Club have the chance to not only try out this winter sport, but also compete in bonspiels at the club’s headquarters and all throughout the world. On December 1-5, four female members of the club, Carol Jones, Cindy Brown, Barb Felice and Kathy Palazzoli, traveled all the way west to the Denver Curling Club’s facilities in Golden, Colorado, to compete in the 2021 USWCA Senior Women’s National Bonspiel. The trip there was well worth it as the Utica-based female curling team, named Team Brown, won the whole thing. They were the 2021 USWCA Senior Women’s National Champions. “I was on a team that won the se-
Above Utica Curling Club on Clark Mills Road in Whitesboro. It is one of the oldest continuously operating curling clubs in the U.S. It has now about 270 members.
Lower the Cost of Your Prescription Drugs
Pharmaceutical companies are raising the costs of many prescription drugs. Here are your options By Barbara Pierce
nior women’s nationals,” Jones said. “The competition was very challenging. The people that were still here supporting us and the text messages that we kept getting, words do not express how we feel about it. It was just phenomenal.” Despite the past successes, Rishel and the other club members are focused on the future. The club has more than 270 members. Most of them are up there in age, according to Rishel. They want more young people to join the group, so they can eventually take over as president or chairman/woman and continue running the club. “Our membership is getting older,” Rishel said. “It’s harder these days to bring young people into this sport. We had several try curling events this year. Every organization needs new blood. We need to replace our older curlers who are aging out. We’d love to see more young adults curling. We absolutely try to encourage people just to come down and try the sport. We’re getting more and more people every year.” Residents who join local curling clubs, like the Utica one, will not only get a good workout while playing the sport but they will also have the chance to socialize with the other members and make new friends. “Too many other things that I did before,” Jones said, “like golf and bowling, I’d be on teams, we get together, then we just go home. That was it. A big aspect of curling is getting together here (Whitesboro) and socializing whether it’s about the game, kids or anything. There’s a big social aspect to it. You’re always intermingling with other people. It’s such a great opportunity to meet new folks.” For more information about the club or to become a member, please visit www.uticacurlingclub.org
P
rices keep rising. In the U.S., it’s outrageous that we pay more than three times what people in other countries pay for the same medicines. Five of the 10 most profitable businesses in the U.S. are pharmaceutical companies. Here’s how to keep more money in your pocket and still get the medications you need: • Try an over-the-counter drug for some problems. For some common conditions, like heartburn, insomnia, allergies, migraines, an OTC might work as well as a prescription drug, because many now-OTC drugs were once prescription-only. • As your health care provider chooses the right drug for your condition, look at the list of prescription drugs covered by your health insurance plan, called a formulary. Not all health plans cover all prescription drugs. If you need a drug that’s not covered, it can cost you hundreds of dollars out of pocket. Depending on the rules of your plan, you may be able to request an exception for a specific medication. • Don’t automatically use your insurance. Many commonly used generic medications can be purchased for as little as $10 for a three-month supply at major chain drugstores or big-box stores. Even drugs covered by your insurance can be less expensive if you don’t use insurance; ask the pharmacist. The reason is because, behind the simple act of buying a bottle of pills, a host of players — drug companies, pharmacies, insurers and pharmacy benefit managers — are taking a cut of the profits. A pharmacy benefit manager handles the prescription drug part of your health insurance plan on behalf of your insurer. In short, you don’t pay the actual cost of the drug; you pay the amount set by your insurance company. • If you’re uninsured, or will
be paying without insurance for a particular medication, check out discount programs, such as Good RX, CommunityCaresRX. com, WellRX.com. These programs offer deep discounts on thousands of medications by working with drug manufacturers directly. • Substituting generics for brand name drugs can cut costs dramatically. The federal government grants 20-year patents on new drugs that give companies the exclusive right to market the medication. Because it takes years to get the drug to market, manufacturers end up with a monopoly lasting years before generic drugmakers can begin selling competing versions. Generics are equally as effective and safe as the original brand name medication. Ask your provider or pharmacist if there is a generic option available. • Often, there’s more than one medication that treats the same condition. When your provider is deciding what to prescribe, they may not know the costs. If you get to the pharmacy and your cost is high, ask your pharmacist if there are any alternatives you can suggest to your provider. The insurance formularies specify medications they prefer, to keep costs down. Sometimes, it is as easy as switching from one drug to another equally effective drug that is on your insurance formulary, resulting in savings to you. • It may shock you how much the cost of the very same medication can differ between pharmacies. For example, the out-of-pocket cost for Atorvastatin, the generic version of Lipitor, a cholesterol medication, may be $4.50 at one pharmacy and $140 at another. Sometimes, the smallest pharmacies offer medications at lower rates than the larger retailers. While jumping between pharmacies may
not be wise, it can pay to speak to different pharmacies to see if they can help reduce your out-of-pocket costs. To guard against any possible drug interactions, let any pharmacy you use know every drug you take. • Find out if the pharmaceutical company that makes your drug offers help to pay for it. Many companies, to keep their medications accessible, offer coupons to make your copay comparable to less expensive options. Best place to find information regarding this is the website of the drug manufacturer or search at RXAssist.org. • Look into using mail-order pharmacies. Home delivery is a convenient way to get the medications you take regularly. Some insurances offer this option. Some offer three months supply for the cost of a two months supply if you use mail order. • Opt for a 90-day supply, which can get you a significantly lower price and is also convenient. Be sure to ask your health care provider to write your prescription for 90 days. • Look into assistance plans. For generic medications, RXOutreach.com is a nonprofit mail-order pharmacy offering generic medications at a discount to low-income patients. The New York Prescription Saver (NYP$) is a free discount card that saves on the cost of prescription drugs. It’s designed for low-income persons aged 50 to 65 or persons of any age with a disability and not on Medicaid. Apply at http:// nyprescriptionsaver.fhsc.com or call 800-788-6971. The Elderly Pharmaceutical Insurance Coverage (EPIC) program is a New York State program for low-income seniors, to supplement their out-of-pocket Medicare Part D drug plan costs. See details and apply at https://www.health.ny.gov/ health_care/epic/application.
February 2022 • IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • Page 11
You’re likely to experience dry skin. Drink enough water and moisturize regularly to combat this. You lose sweat and oil glands on your skin as you age; your sweat might start to smell differently. You’re likely to bruise more easily. And you’ll see more age spots, those flat brown spots; sunscreen helps. You may notice more skin tags, more common in women than men. Your risk of skin cancer increases; regular exams by a dermatologist are recommended.
10. Stress poses a risk to your health
5. Your vision will decline
12. Your body handles alcohol differently
By Barbara Pierce
patients better than men.
Like the rest of our body, our eyes will present more problems, like cataracts, macular degeneration and glaucoma, said optometrist Matthew Wadas of the Wadas Eye Group, offering comprehensive family eye care in Barneveld, Whitesboro and Herkimer. Everybody develops cataracts. There’s nothing you can do. Not everyone will develop macular degeneration or glaucoma, he said. Be prepared to change your eyeglass prescription.
hile there are plenty of aspects of getting older that might feel great, there are many that certainly don’t. Your body changes a lot during this phase of life. Knowing what to expect makes these transitions easier.
2. Dementia is a huge risk
6. You could lose your hearing
Tanya Bristol is a board member of Mohawk Valley American Heart Association.
Catherine James is the executive director of Alzheimer’s Association Central New York.
13 Things Every Woman Over 50 Should Know
Understanding how your body changes as we age
W
1. Heart disease is your biggest risk
“Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in women,” said RN Tanya Bristol of the Mohawk Valley American Heart Association Board of Directors. “Cardiovascular disease claims more women’s lives than all forms of cancer combined.” “Women of all ages can be affected, but the incidence increases after menopause and in a disproportionate number of women of color. Women tend to wait longer than men to seek medical attention which worsens outcomes,” she continued. “Diagnosing heart disease can be more challenging in women, as symptoms may be vague,” she explained. “The most common heart attack symptom is chest pain or discomfort for both sexes. Women are more likely to have symptoms such as shortness of breath, nausea or vomiting, back or jaw pain, and fatigue.” A recent study concluded that women with heart health issues get better treatment if they’re seen by a female cardiologist, she said. Female doctors simply understand female
Dementia affects millions of men and women, but women are especially at risk. “Two thirds of those living with Alzheimer’s are women,” said Cathy James, executive director, Alzheimer’s Association Central New York. This tells us that it’s important for women to be aware of the warning signs and do what they can to protect themselves, she added. If you do one thing to protect your brain every day, it should be exercising, as this lowers your risk. “It’s also important to manage stress and get adequate sleep,’’ James said. As well as keeping your mind active as you age.
3. You’re at a greater risk for cancer
Though cancer can strike at any age; your risk skyrockets after you enter middle age. According to the National Cancer Institute, 91% of new cancer diagnoses happen in people older than 45. Talk to your doctor about your cancer risk and what you can do to prevent it. Be especially wary about breast cancer.
4. You’ll have skin issues
As you age, you might notice more wrinkles and thinner skin. This is in part because of a lack of collagen, a protein that keeps your skin firm and elastic. When you get older, your body produces less collagen.
Age-related hearing loss occurs in most adults; one in three older people experience hearing loss. Get your ears checked regularly.
7. You’ll experience menopause
Age 50 is approximately when women should expect to experience menopause. When you hit menopause, your hormones undergo changes. You’ll produce lower amounts of estrogen and progesterone. Many women experience insomnia, hot flashes, decreased sex drive, depression and mood swings. Vaginal dryness is common after menopause and can interfere with your sex life and cause pain. However, it can be treated, so discuss it with your doctor.
8. You may have decreased bladder control
Because you produce less estrogen, it affects your muscle tone, including the muscles in your pelvis. Talk to your doctor if you experience bladder leaks—it can be treated.
9. Your immune system will get weaker
This might make you more likely to get sick and could make recovery from illness take longer. Do what you can to protect yourself from pathogens.
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Page 12 • IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • February 2022
Stress can pile up easily, and have bad effects on your health, so take steps to mitigate it when possible.
11. It’s never too late to start exercising
Exercise is a major part of healthy aging. It’s never too late to start. Exercising has so many benefits.
Drinking excess alcohol can contribute to your risk for dozens of problems including liver damage, cancer, osteoporosis, heart disease and Alzheimer’s.
13. Having fun is important, too
Participating in activities that you enjoy—hobbies, social activities and leisure time—works wonders for your health.
10 Warning Signs of Alzheimer’s It’s common to experience some issues with memory, thinking and behavior as you age. However, changes that interfere with daily life could be a sign of something more serious, such as dementia. 1. Memory loss that disrupts daily life 2. Challenges in planning or solving problems 3. Difficulty completing familiar tasks 4. Confusion with time or place 5. Trouble understanding visual images and spatial relationships 6. New problems with words in speaking or writing 7. Misplacing things and losing the ability to retrace steps 8. Decreased or poor judgment 9. Withdrawal from work or social activities 10. Changes in mood and personality If you notice one or more signs in yourself or another person, these are significant concerns that should be evaluated by a doctor. For more details, call 800.272.3900 or see alz.org Source: Alzheimer’s Association®
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Rome Health Family physician Michael Attilio recommends screenings for his patients based upon the guidance of the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force and the American Academy of Family Physicians.
Preventive Health Screenings: How Necessary Are They? Early detection helps prevent problems later By Barbara Pierce
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hen was the last time you took your car in for a tire rotation, oil change or a checkup? Most of us recognize the need for regular maintenance because we know that if we only tended to our cars when there was a leak or a flat tire, we’d be asking for trouble. While it may seem ridiculous to drive our car without changing the oil for several years, many of us don’t get the preventive screenings that are recommended by health care professionals. Like cars, our bodies don’t function at their optimal if we don’t take preventive measures. For example, if elevated levels of cholesterol, blood sugar or blood pressure are detected early and treated, the risk of heart attack or stroke is drastically reduced. “For all adults, preventing disease or catching it early is the best way to keep people healthy,” said Rome Health vice president of physician practices Michael Attilio, family physician at Rome Health Delta Medical Center. And preventing disease or catching it early reduces overall costs for health care, he added. Because of COVID-19, many of us have delayed routine health visits. There may be an end in sight for the pandemic, but common conditions— heart attacks, IBS, strokes, cancers and diabetes—are here to stay. The
risk for these increases with age, which is why it’s so important to stick to your screenings. “The right screening test for each patient often varies, based on age, gender and other traits that might put you at risk,” said Attilio. Our genes put us at an increased risk for certain diseases. With a detailed family history, your health care professional can tailor recommendations for screenings and treatment based on your risks. Health screenings come in many forms, from those as simple as a regular skin check for suspicious moles or a blood test, to one as complex as a colon cancer screening or questions about your family health history. Screenings are important because, if you’re at risk for a condition that has few warning signs, screenings show what your risks are, so you can prevent or delay the condition. For example, stroke often has no symptoms, but a carotid artery screening can help identify your risk for a stroke. Getting recommended screenings is one of the most important things you can do for your health. Depending on your age, sex and medical history, you may need to be screened for: • Blood pressure: High blood pressure often has no symptoms and increases your risk for heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, etc. Adults older than 50 should be checked once every two years and more often if
you’ve had a heart attack or stroke or your blood pressure is above normal. • Cholesterol: High cholesterol levels cause heart attacks and strokes. A simple blood test measures your levels and should be checked every four to six years, more often if you have heart disease or diabetes. • Stomach, colon, rectal issues: Colorectal screenings detect and remove precancerous growths before they become a problem. Screenings are recommended every five to 10 years beginning at 45, through 75. Gum and dental disease can lead to stroke, diabetes or heart disease. Every six months get an exam and cleaning. • Depression: Untreated, depression increases the risk of suicide, drug or alcohol addiction, relationship or employment issues. • Diabetes: High blood sugar levels increase the likelihood of diabetes. Uncontrolled, it can lead to several serious conditions. Anyone older than 50 with high blood pressure or who is overweight should be screened every three years. • Eye conditions (glaucoma, cataracts, macular degeneration) become more common as we age. When you hit 50, have annual eye exams to catch problems before they develop into something serious. • Hearing: Hearing loss increases with age; it’s wise to have a baseline test at age 50 then repeat every three years. • Lung cancer: Screening reduc-
es the risk of dying from lung cancer. Screening is recommended for people older than 55 with a history of smoking and who currently smoke or quit in the past 15 years. • Skin cancer: Early detection of skin cancers saves lives and makes treatment easier. Every year, have a skin exam by a dermatologist.
Just for women Breast cancer: Early detection saves lives. Regular screening with a mammogram, is the most reliable way to find cancers early when they’re most treatable. Women of average risk should start screening every year at age 40; women older than 55 can switch to every other year. Women at high risk should get a breast MRI and a mammogram every year, starting at age 30. Cervical cancer and HPV: Screening reduces cervical cancer deaths by finding and treating cancers before they’ve spread. Screening is recommended every three years up to age 65.
Just for Men Prostate cancer: A prostate exam can find cancers early, before they cause symptoms or spread. Starting at age 50, ask your health care provider about the pros and cons of screening. Most insurance plans cover most screening tests.
February 2022 • IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • Page 13
Getting Enough Vitamin D?
When you’re not ingesting enough vitamin D with your food, supplements can also help By Deborah Jeanne Sergeant
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n addition to your summertime tan, your vitamin D stores have long since disappeared. While excessive sun is not so good for your skin, in moderation, it makes the body generate vitamin D, a pre-hormone that modulates many important bodily systems, including the immune system.
Why is D important? In addition to regulating functions of the body, vitamin D also helps the body absorb many of its nutrients, such as calcium, magnesium and phosphate. “They are finding more and more ways the body uses vitamin D,” said Julie Mellen registered dietitian, certified diabetes care and education specialist at SUNY Upstate Medical University.
It reduces inflammation. Low levels of vitamin D have been linked to cognitive decline and osteoporosis.
Who needs more vitamin D? Nearly everyone in North America. The sun is not intense enough from about October through May to trigger production of vitamin D. “A lot of people can’t meet their needs for vitamin D,” Mellen said. People who are homebound, work indoors or cannot expose their skin to sunlight because of other health conditions may be at especially higher risk for vitamin D deficiency year-round.
Where can we get vitamin D? Primarily, it’s through the UVB radiation in the sun. While too much exposure can cause skin cancer, 20 minutes’ exposure a few times a
week suffices for generating vitamin D. The few foods that offer vitamin D provide so little that most people could not eat enough of them to supply all of their needed vitamin D. “Supplementation is the primary source, unless you’re big into salmon, sunlight, tuna and sardines,” Mellen said. She added that commercially processed milk and other fortified products such as most boxed breakfast cereals contain vitamin D. Milk processed by an on-farm creamery may not have vitamin D added. Eggs contain vitamin D, but the amount offered by eggs depends upon the chicken’s diet. Mushrooms contain a small amount of vitamin D.
kits available. We have them at my company and there are others out there. They cost $50 or so. You prick your finger and mail it in.” She added that it may take two to three months to raise vitamin D levels to sufficient levels.
How much D do we need? As a fat-soluble nutrient, vitamin D is stored by the body if it gets too much. Vitamin D generated through sunlight exposure does not cause toxicity. However, supplemented D can. Most people older than 70 need more vitamin D than younger people because of malabsorption. The amount of vitamin D one needs varies depending not only on age but also other health concerns. “Get a baseline through bloodwork,” Mellen said. “If you’re deficient, you’d want to supplement. The sources aren’t always readily available through diet.” Laurel Sterling, registered dietitian and nutritionist and educator for Carlson Laboratories, said that most people should take a higher dose of vitamin D supplements from September through May. “Ask to get your levels checked,” she said. “Doctors aren’t always checking this. There are at-home test
So Why Do I Have Vitamin D Pills?
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nfortunately, doctors do not prescribe a vacation to a sun-soaked island for their patients deficient in vitamin D. Instead, it’s a supplement providing 50,000 international units (IUs) of vitamin D per dose. Over-the-counter vitamin D provides at the most 10,000 IUs. Vitamin D helps the body absorb nutrients. Vitamin D deficiency can cause rickets in children and in adults, hypoparathyroidism, osteomalacia, hypocalcemia, or bone diseases, which is why a prescription is sometimes necessary.
When it comes to learning your risk of cancer – including breast cancer – knowledge is power. That’s why Hematology-Oncology Associates of CNY is proud to offer comprehensive Cancer Genetics Testing and Counseling with specially trained experts. Available to anyone – not just HOA patients – Cancer Genetics Testing and Counseling: • helps you and your family make better-informed decisions about your healthcare • is covered by most insurance plans • begins with a simple blood sample To see if Cancer Genetics Testing and Counseling is right for you, talk with your doctor and take our five-minute survey at hoacny.com/cancergenetics or by scanning this code.
Page 14 • IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • February 2022
SmartBites By Anne Palumbo
The skinny on healthy eating
Move Over Meat, It’s Tempeh Time!
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ver since I put the breaks on meat consumption, I’ve been on a quest to find plant-based meat alternatives. Like many, I first turned to a popular meat substitute: tofu. While I certainly like tofu and continue to consume it, I’m now smitten with tofu’s heartier cousin: tempeh (pronounced “tem-pay”). We met by accident. When I was reaching for some tofu, I happened to notice an ill-placed package of tempeh tucked amidst the tofu. Curious, I picked it up (firm and nubby), read the label (high in nutrients), and decided to throw caution to the wind (a true food romantic!). What is tempeh? Tempeh is a high-protein meat alternative made from fermented soybeans that have been cooked and compressed into a dense cake. Some versions also contain beans and grains, which is why gluten-sensitive folks should scour ingredient labels. Unlike tofu, tempeh has a meaty, firm texture and an earthy, nutty flavor. Tempeh has about 20 grams of protein per average serving, an impressive amount that puts it on par with some animal-based sources of protein, like shrimp, tuna, tilapia, and many lean meats. What’s more, its protein is complete, meaning it has all the essential amino acids every body needs. Studies show that a diet high in protein can aid appetite control by increasing fullness and decreasing hunger. For some, this means better weight management; for others, it can mean weight loss. Looking to shore up your bones? This tasty meat-alt brims with bone-building minerals: calcium, phosphorous, manganese and magnesium. All four work synergistically
to build and maintain strong bones, which is important in reducing the risk of bone fractures and osteoporosis. In addition, tempeh’s bounty of protein is also a boon for bones, say experts. Hearts benefit from tempeh in more ways than one. Its soy isoflavones — natural plant compounds — have been linked to reduced cholesterol levels. Studies show that these same plant compounds also have antioxidant properties and reduce oxidative stress by neutralizing toxic free radicals. A buildup of these highly unstable atoms has been linked to many diseases, including heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. And, unlike the unhealthy saturated fat in some meats, tempeh’s fat is mostly heart-healthy mono and polyunsaturated fats. An average serving of plain tempeh has about 170 calories, no sodium or cholesterol, good amounts of several B vitamins, iron, and, depending on the kind of tempeh you buy, even some fiber.
Helpful tips Buy tempeh in the refrigerated section of your grocery store, typically near tofu. Check the label: some flavored tempehs have added sugar and salt while others have gluten proteins. Tempeh loves marinades and absorbs flavors better with a thinner slice (1/4 “) or a finer chop. Use grated tempeh as you would ground meat for meatballs, taco fillings, or a meatless “meat” sauce for pasta.
Tempeh BLT (BaconLettuce-Tomato) Bowl Adapted from Salad Samurai Cookbook
Tempeh Bacon Bites 8 oz tempeh 2 tablespoons maple syrup 2 tablespoons soy sauce 1 tablespoon ketchup or hot sauce of choice 1 tablespoon vegetable oil ½ teaspoon salt ¼ teaspoon liquid smoke (optional) Olive oil for pan-frying 1 tablespoon water Salad 6-8 cups mixed greens ½ red onion, sliced in half-moons 1 pint grape or cherry tomatoes, sliced in half 1 ripe avocado, diced Dressing of choice
How Olive Oil Can Add Years to Your Life
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wapping out the butter or other artery-clogging fats in your diet for heart-healthy olive oil may add years to your life, researchers say. Folks who consume more than 1/2 a tablespoon of olive oil a day are less likely to die from heart disease, cancer, neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s or lung disease when compared to people who consume less of this healthy fat, a new study finds. It’s not just adding olive oil to your diet that staves off death from disease, said study author Marta Guasch-Ferre, a research scientist in the nutrition department at the Harvard T. H. Chan School of Public Health. “We need to pay attention to overall diet quality and lifestyle, and consistent with our results, the key would be to add olive oil into the diet as a substitution of other unhealthier fats.” Olive oil is rich in healthful antioxidants, polyphenols and vitamins and is a good source of heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. “One may
speculate that mechanisms related to the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of olive oil may have played a role in these findings,” Guasch-Ferre said. Olive oil use could also be a marker for a healthier lifestyle. Folks in the study who consumed the most olive oil were more physically active, less likely to smoke and ate more fruits and vegetables than people who consumed less olive oil. For the study, the researchers analyzed data on more than 90,000 people from the Nurses’ Health Study and the Health Professionals Follow-Up Study who were free of heart disease and cancer when the study began in 1990. These folks were followed for 28 years. Every four years, they were asked how often they ate certain foods, including fats such as margarine, butter, mayonnaise, dairy
fat and olive oil. When compared with people who never consumed olive oil, those who consumed more than 1/2 a tablespoon a day had a 19% lower risk of dying from heart disease, a 17% lower risk of dying from cancer, a 29% lower risk of dying from a neurodegenerative disease, and an 18% lower risk of dying from lung disease. The researchers also developed statistical models to simulate what would happen if a person swapped out 3/4 a tablespoon of margarine, butter, mayonnaise or other vegetable oils with olive oil. This switch reduced the chances of dying from all causes. Substituting olive oil for other vegetable oils such as canola, corn, safflower and soybean didn’t have the same effect, the study showed.
1. Slice the tempeh (widthwise) into ¼-inch thin strips. Then, stack two strips at a time and slice the tempeh into bite-size pieces, about an inch long. 2. In a small metal baking pan (i.e., 9” x 5” loaf pan), whisk together the maple syrup, soy sauce, ketchup or hot sauce, vegetable oil, salt, and liquid smoke until smooth. Add the tempeh bites and gently toss to completely coat with marinade. Let stand for 10 minutes (flip after 5) or cover and chill overnight. 3. Use your fingers or a fork to transfer the tempeh pieces (leaving the marinade behind) to a lightly oiled skillet preheated over medium heat. Lay the pieces in a single layer. Cook until well browned on one side, flip, and cook the other side until browned, about 2 to 3 minutes per side. After the tempeh is browned on both sides, turn the heat to low, mix 1 tablespoon water into remaining marinade, and then pour the mixture over the bites and cook until the marinade is absorbed, about 1 to 2 minutes more. Turn off heat and cover to keep warm until ready to use. 4. Place the mixed greens, red onion slices, tomato halves, avocado dices, and tempeh bacon in a large bowl. Using your hands or tongs to combine, toss the salad with just enough dressing to moisten completely. Serve and enjoy! *Salad Samurai is my all-time favorite salad cookbook. Although geared to vegans, which I am not, its unique recipes are loaded with flavor and nutrients.
Anne Palumbo is a lifestyle colum-
nist, food guru, and seasoned cook, who has perfected the art of preparing nutritious, calorie-conscious dishes. She is hungry for your questions and comments about SmartBites, so be in touch with Anne at avpalumbo@aol.com.
The findings are published in the Jan. 11 issue of the Journal of the American College of Cardiology. Nutritionists not involved in the new study point out that eating a healthy, balanced diet is more important than any one food. It’s not just the olive oil that confers these health benefits, it’s likely what the olive oil travels with and adds flavor to, said Marion Nestle, professor of nutrition, food studies and public health emerita at New York University. “Olive oil is part of the classic heart-healthy Mediterranean diet,” Nestle noted. This style of eating includes lots of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds and lean protein, and is low in processed foods. “It’s never about one food, it’s really about dietary patterns,” she said. Olive oil has calories, and they can add up quickly, Nestle pointed out. There are about 120 calories in one tablespoon of olive oil. This isn’t a lot of olive oil either, said Meghan McLarney, a dietitian at Nebraska Medicine in Omaha. “A typical salad at a restaurant has about four tablespoons of dressing.”
February 2022 • IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • Page 15
Protect Your Eyesight: Here’s How Problems will get worse as we age By Barbara Pierce
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or most of us, the fear of losing our sight is huge. The thought of not being able to see is worse than our fear of cancer or having a heart attack or stroke; it’s the worst possible thing that could happen to us. Many of the things that cause eye problems and vision loss are genetic or age-related, said optometrist Matthew Wadas of the Wadas Eye Group, which offers comprehensive family eye care in offices in Barneveld, Whitesboro and Herkimer. “Like the rest of our body, our eyes can present more problems as we age,” he said. “Things like cataracts, macular degeneration, glaucoma—all are age-related and become more prevalent as we age.” However, the good news is that nearly all vision changes, including those that are age-related, can be
treated. Regular eye exams can catch problems before they can develop into something more serious. Eye problems happen to people of all ages. And, although many causes of vision loss can’t be prevented, many can be avoided or stopped from becoming serious by taking these simple suggestions from Wadas. • Too much screen time: Device use—whether our computer, tablet, mobile phone, or TV—plays an important part of our everyday lives. Adults in the U.S. spend almost half of each day interacting with screens. Those older than 60 spend even more time each day. The impact of so much exposure to our blue-light-emitting devices is being studied more and more, said Wadas. Blue light rays can be harmful to the eyes, doing a multiple of bad things, including causing early formation of cataracts. Also, it can
predispose you to macular degeneration. “Everybody develops cataracts,” said Wadas. “100% of people older than 65 have some cataracts, due to age and environment. There’s nothing you can do to prevent them.” Cataracts can be treated with surgery, which is generally a safe, effective procedure. “But not everyone will develop macular degeneration,” he added. It’s the leading cause of vision loss in people older than 65 and occurs when the macula, a part of the retina, becomes damaged. Medication may slow the disease. • To protect your eyes when using screens: “Blink!” advised Wadas. “We tend to be like zombies on our devices; we don’t blink. We normally blink 12 to 15 times per minute. But, if we’re like a zombie, we don’t blink. Blinking is beneficial to the eyes because, as our upper eyelid hits our lower eyelid, it causes moisture, which is helpful. Less blinking equals dry irritated eyes.” Also, follow the 20-20-20 rule. Wadas suggests: “Look away every 20 minutes, focus on an object 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds.” Looking into the distance allows your eyes to relax. If you’re squinting to see your screen, bump up the font size so your eyes don’t have to work so hard. Swap contact lenses for glasses while using the computer, as contacts can dry out and irritate your eyes, especially if you’re not blinking enough. Sit about 25 inches, an arm’s length, away from the screen and position the height of your screen so that you’re looking slightly downward at it. There’s evidence that blue light may affect your body’s sleep cycle, so don’t use devices before bed. Too much blue light exposure at night from your phone may make it harder to get to sleep. Limit screen time one to two hours before bedtime. For children, looking at a device up close every day can cause nearsightedness. This is another thing being studied, said Wadas. Also, being studied is the use of contact lenses for screen time to slow
Optometrist Matthew Wadas in an optomestrist at the Wadas Eye Group, which offers comprehensive family eye care in offices in Barneveld, Whitesboro and Herkimer. the onset of myopia; this is a blossoming field, he added. • Excessive exposure to UV light from the sun is another thing that harms eyes and can cause premature cataracts and macular degeneration. “I recommend that all my patients wear sunglasses,” said Wadas. “They don’t have to be prescription lenses as all sunglasses do block UV light. People like farmers or beach bums who are outside a lot often need cataract surgery at an early age. It’s always a smart idea to wear sunglasses, especially if you have light colored eyes—blue or hazel.” • Smoking can have detrimental effect on the eyes, as it does with everything else, said Wadas. You’re more at risk for cataracts and at risk for macular degeneration. Smokers have four times the risk of development macular degeneration than nonsmokers. If you smoke 15 or more cigarettes a day, your chance of developing cataracts is three times greater than that of a nonsmoker. Even hanging around smokers, being exposed to secondhand smoke, can be harmful to your sight. A yearly eye exam for everyone older than 50 is recommended, even if you’re not experiencing any vision problems. Early detection and treatment will protect your vision.
ER? Urgent Care? Telemedicine? What Should You Do?
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here are millions of visits to hospital emergency departments (ED) in New York state each year that don’t result in a hospital stay, according to New York State Department of Health data. And while some conditions require emergency care, many are better suited for care in a different setting, such as a physician’s office, telemedicine or urgent care center. As health care resources become more strained from the pandemic, Nicholas it’s important to understand these differences. “Too often, patients show up at the emergency department for minor medical conditions, such as sore throats and earaches, which could have been treated as effectively, with shorter wait times, and lower out-
of-pocket costs, in a primary care setting,” says Elizabeth Nicholas, emergency medicine physician and medical director at Excellus BlueCross BlueShield. “When a patient’s own doctor isn’t available, such as evenings or weekends, an urgent care center or telemedicine visit may be appropriate alternatives.” Emergency departments have the expertise and technology to evaluate and treat medical and surgical emergencies. Individuals experiencing severe injury or illness should call 911 or go to the nearest ED. Some examples include chest pain, stroke symptoms, difficulty breathing, traumatic injuries, seizure or loss of consciousness, severe abdominal pain, and burns. Individuals with minor medical conditions can overcrowd emergency departments and divert vital health care resources from true emergencies. “If possible when ill or injured, patients should contact their primary care physician first for guidance on the best steps for care,” says Nicho-
las.
Urgent care centers are an option for patients when their doctor isn’t available. They offer treatment for non-life-threatening medical issues such as lacerations requiring stiches, fever, flu, sore throat, cough, minor infections, rashes, short-term medication refills, and back pain. Orthopedic-specific urgent care clinics can often give complete and efficient care on the same day for injuries such as broken bones, strains and sprains. For patients with non-life-threatening illness, check with your own primary care doctor or specialist first to see if they are available either by telemedicine or an in-person office visit. If your doctor is not available, you’re out of town or not able to get into their office for any reason, telemedicine using a source such as MD LIVE, may be an option for you to talk to a provider by phone, chat or video conference. Telemedicine providers can assess the condition, provide care, and send prescriptions to the patient’s nearest preferred
Page 16 • IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • February 2022
pharmacy. This type of care works best for conditions such as colds, flu, pink eye, sinus infections, rashes, insect bites, minor skin conditions and some behavioral health conditions. “I encourage patients to be proactive and speak with their primary care doctor about options for after-hours care, telemedicine visits, and recommendations for urgent care centers,” advises Nicholas. “If your insurance carrier offers telemedicine services, register for them before you become ill. By planning for the unexpected, patients can get the right care in the right setting, and free up hospital EDs for true medical emergencies.” Excellus BlueCross BlueShield members, for example, can find out more about their telehealth and telemedicine option by visiting ExcellusBCBS.com/telemedicine. Submitted by Excellus BlueCross BlueShield
The Balanced Body
By Deb Dittner
Listen to Your Heart
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mproving the health of your heart consists of a number of important factors. Not only will your heart health improve but also will provide your overall well-being. Let’s look at a few ways to incorporate health into your New Year. • Sleep: Everyone needs quality sleep. Studies have shown the importance of getting a good night’s sleep and how it relates to heart health. Consider a bedtime between the hours of 10 p.m. and 11 p.m. Those going to bed after midnight have a greater tendency toward heart disease. Going to bed later causes interruption in the body’s “clock” or circadian rhythm which relates to negative cardiovascular issues. My rescue dog of a year has this routine down pat. Once the sun goes down, she begins to settle in and sleep is sound. As the sun rises, she wakes and remains alert and active throughout the daylight hours. • To encourage a good night’s sleep consider incorporating a bedtime schedule starting about an hour before you settle in. Take a warm bath adding Epsom salts (contains magnesium to aid in sleep) with therapeutic grade essential oils such as lavender. Enjoy reading a good book and adding a cup of non-caffeinated relaxing tea. Avoid the use of stimulants such as alcohol, caffeine (avoid after 1 p.m.), sugar and smoking. Avoid bed time snacks as a full stomach can also cause sleep
disturbances and can create difficulty with fat burning. Relaxation and breathing techniques will allow for a good night’s sleep by incorporating relaxation yoga postures (legs up the wall, child’s pose and corpse pose) and breath work. Adding a sound machine with the sounds of nature or relaxing music can quiet a busy mind. • The bedroom atmosphere needs to be at an average temperature of 70F — not too hot and not too cold. Block out all light by installing darkening shades or curtains. Remove all computers, television, iPhones and iPads as they disperse blue light. These devices are stimulating and will not allow for a restful night’s sleep. Lastly, sleep in a bed with a good quality mattress and a firm pillow. • Nutrition: Research has shown that what you eat can impact longterm heart health, specifically a plant-based diet. Dietary choices have been correlated with cardiovascular diseases such as heart attack, heart failure and stroke. Plant-based foods have been found to decrease the risk and maintain heart health. The more plants on your plate, the better. Incorporating a healthy variety of whole, nutrient dense foods (mostly plants) and occasionally adding lean and clean animal products (poultry, wild caught fish, eggs and dairy) will provide a nutritious balance. Processed and unprocessed
red meat and pork should be limited to twice per week. Legumes (beans, chickpeas, lentils, peanuts and peas) are a recommended source of protein to be substituted for red meat. Wild caught fish may also be substituted at two to four servings per week. Developing recipes using whole grains, beans, nuts, fruits and vegetables and adding a variety of herbs and spices lower your risk of developing heart disease. Dairy products in small quantities, and yogurt with gut-healthy good bacteria promotes health. Adding fermented foods such as sauerkraut (a tablespoon or two about a half hour before a meal) will aid in gut health. Coffee is a common morning drink adding antioxidants aiding in brain and heart support. A suggested two cups of coffee per day (about 100 mg caffeine per cup) may be beneficial. Adding a plant-based milk for those who like a creamier cup in place of those adding cream, flavors, and sugars. The caffeine in coffee helps in lowering the risk of heart failure per research but any and all recommendations should be discussed with your primary care provider before incorporating into your daily routine. It’s never too late to turn your diet around as nutrition is the cornerstone of health. •Healthy lifestyle: There is no magic pill to optimal health. It’s a way of life. Movement is another important factor in heart health. Movement can come in many different ways including walking, jogging/ running, yoga, sports (soccer, hockey, basketball, skiing, skating, dancing, etc.), tai chi, stretching and strength-
ening, and more. A minimum of 30 minutes per day most days of the week of physical movement will aid in providing heart health. Most importantly is to do something you like doing. If you are at a computer for long periods of time, set an alarm to remind you to get up and move every half hour. This is important for your body and relieves strain on your eyes as well. Self-care comes in many ways including but not limited to massage, meditation, breath work, laughing, a warm bath, journaling, reading, and calming teas all which may help eliminate stress. Stress takes a toll on your health causing you to be off-balanced. Creating balance in your body through a diet rich in whole, nutrient dense foods combined with lifestyle changes in sleep, movement and selfcare will lead to optimum health.
Deborah Dittner is a family nurse practitioner and health consultant. Her mission is to transform as many individuals as possible through nutrition and lifestyle changes. For more information, check out her website at www.debdittner.com or contact her at 518-596-8565.
AN EASIER MOVE TO MEDICARE. That’s the Benefit of Blue.
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If you’re turning 65 or retiring, don’t be intimidated by the move to Medicare. You got this – and you have local experts who are here to help.
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Excellus BlueCross BlueShield is an HMO plan and a PPO plan with a Medicare contract. Enrollment in Excellus BlueCross BlueShield depends on contract renewal. Our Health Plan complies with applicable Federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex. ATENCIÓN: si habla español, tiene a su disposición servicios gratuitos de asistencia lingüística. Llame al 1-877-883-9577 (TTY: 711). 注意：如果您使用繁體中文，您可以免費獲得語言援助服務。請致電 1-877-883-9577 (TTY: 711)。 A nonprofit independent licensee of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association
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February 2022 • IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • Page 17
By Jim Miller
Tax Breaks for Caregiver of Elderly Parents Dear Savvy Senior, Are there any tax breaks that you know of for family caregivers? I help financially support my 82-year-old mother and would like to find out if I can write any of these expenses off on my taxes. — Supplemental Sam
Dear Sam, There are actually several tax credits and deductions available to adult children who help look after their aging parents or other relatives. Here are some options along with the IRS requirements to help you determine if you’re eligible to receive them.
• Tax Credit for Other Dependents: If your mom lives with you and you’re paying more than 50% of her living expenses (housing, food, utilities, health care, repairs, clothing, travel and other necessities), and her
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2021 gross income was under $4,300, you can claim your mom as a dependent and get a nonrefundable tax credit of up to $500. If you happen to split your mom’s expenses with other siblings, only one of you can claim your mom as a dependent, and that person must pay at least 10% of her support costs. This is called a “multiple support agreement.” The IRS has an interactive tool that will help you determine if your mom qualifies as a dependent. Go to IRS.gov/help/ita, scroll down to “Credits,” and click on “Does My Child/Dependent Qualify for the Child Tax Credit or the Credit for Other Dependents?” • Medical Deductions: If you claim your mom as a dependent and you help pay her medical, dental or long-term care expenses, and weren’t reimbursed by insurance, you can deduct the expenses that are more than 7.5% of your adjusted gross income (AGI). So, for example, if your adjusted gross income is $80,000, anything beyond the first $6,000 of your mom’s medical bills — or 7.5% of your AGI — could be deductible on your return. So, if you paid $8,000 in medical bills for her, $2,000 of it could be deductible. You can also include your own medical expenses in calculating the total. You should also know that your state might have a lower AGI threshold, which means you might get a break on your state income taxes even if you can’t get one on your federal income taxes. To see which medical expenses you can and can’t deduct, see IRS Publication 502 at IRS.gov/pub/irs-
pdf/p502.pdf. • Dependent Care Credit: If you’re paying for in-home care or adult day care for your mom so you are free to work, you might qualify for the Dependent Care Tax Credit which can be worth as much as $4,000. To be eligible your mom must have been physically or mentally incapable of self-care and must have lived with you for more than six months. To claim this tax credit, fill out IRS Form 2441 (IRS.gov/pub/irspdf/f2441.pdf) when you file your federal return. • Flexible Health Savings Accounts: If you have a health savings account (HSA) or your employer offers a flexible savings account (FSA), you can use them to pay for your mom’s medical expenses if she qualifies as a dependent. But be aware that if you use an HSA or FSA to pay for your mom’s medical costs, you can’t take a tax deduction on those expenses too. For more information, see IRS Publication 969, “Health Savings Accounts and Other Tax-Favored Health Plans” at IRS.gov/pub/irspdf/p969.pdf.
Send your senior questions to: Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070, or visit SavvySenior. org. Jim Miller is a contributor to the NBC Today show and author of “The Savvy Senior” book.
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Health News Jack Callaghan to lead Catholic Charities Oneida/ Madison County
Jack Callaghan has been appointed as executive director of Catholic Charities Oneida/ Madison County. Callaghan has over 35 years’ experience in human services and has worked in direct care mental health management Jack Callaghan capacities for the past 27 years. Callaghan is passionate about the mission of Catholic Charities and is committed to ensuring that the agency continues to provide comprehensive supports for individuals and families in our community. According to a news release, he looks forward to expanding Catholic Charities’ impact on reaching the most underserved in the Mohawk Valley area through partnerships with community stakeholders in both the private and not-for-profit sectors.
Upstate’s doctor earns Liberty Medal from NYS Senate
Stephen Thomas, a virologist and vaccinologist who currently serves as an Upstate Medical University professor of medicine, microbiology & immunology and is director of its Institute for Global Health and Translational Science, has been recognized Stephen Thomas with Liberty Medal—the highest civilian honor awarded by the New York State Senate—for his work related to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Syracuse-area state Sen. John Mannion announced the honor from senate floor Jan. 13. “[Thomas] is at the forefront of critical advancements related to both vaccine development and large-scale testing implementation,” Mannion said. “Make no mistake, the work of Dr. Thomas and his team has saved untold millions of lives around the world through safe and effective vaccination. There are not enough words to express our gratitude to him.” In November 2020, Thomas was tapped as lead principal investigator for the world-wide Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine trial. Thanks to Thomas and Upstate’s Global Health team, Central New Yorkers had an opportunity to participate in making history as the area became one of the study’s global phase 3 vaccine trial locations. Thomas also led the team coordinating the university’s initial response to the pandemic in March 2020. Thomas also has become one of the nation’s leading and most authoritative voices regarding the COVID-19 pandemic, offering his perspective of the pandemic in both local and national media, updating the public on vaccines, masking, treatments and clinical trials since the pandemic was declared a global outbreak in March 2020.
Excellus BCBS appoints its first female chief information officer
Cindy Langston has been appointed as senior vice president and chief information officer at Excellus BlueCross BlueShield, the largest nonprofit health insurer in Upstate New York. Langston is the company’s first female chief information officer in Cindy Langston its 87-year history. “Cindy is an experienced and strategic leader with a proven track
record of building high-performing teams and delivering results,” said Jim Reed, CEO and president of Excellus BCBS. “She’s also tremendously generous with her time and service to our community.” “Anyone who knows Cindy is also likely not surprised that she broke this barrier at our company, as our first-ever female chief information officer,” he added. In her new position, Langston is responsible for delivering on a new technology foundation, developing market leading capabilities and readying the organization with the talent and technology needed for the future. Langston has a B.S. degree in computer technology from Purdue University, an MBA from Lake Forest Graduate School of Management and over 30 years of experience in the field of information technology and consulting. She has worked for Dow Corning Corporation, Aon Hewitt, Health Care Service Corporation (HCSC), and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, in addition to her time as a consultant. Langston’s leadership journey has taken her across the globe. She spent 10 years, for example, as an international consultant leading large, global IT implementations in Australia, Japan, England, Singapore, Scotland and South Korea. In 2014, Langston started at Excellus BCBS as a vice president in information technology. Three years later, she was promoted to lead the Analytics & Data division as chief analytics data officer. Langston serves the Rochester community in a variety of ways, including as board chairwoman of the YWCA of Rochester and Monroe County; member of the Women’s Leadership Council of the United Way of Greater Rochester and the Finger Lakes; and past chairwoman of the YWCA Racial Justice Committee and Stand Against Racism events. Langston also mentors and coaches many individuals, and leads the Excellus BCBS Women’s Leadership group, which engages women with a passion to invest in the advancement of themselves and other women leaders.
Nascentia Receives Donation in Memory of Chris Destito
O
n the 12th anniversary of his death, Chris Destito’s family members made a memorial donation toward the renovations of the event and conference center at the upcoming Nascentia Neighborhood at the Beeches in Rome. The tavern will be named in memory of Chris Destito. Contributing to the donation include Mr. Destito’s wife, RoAnn Destito, the recently retired NYS Commissioner of General Services; son Christopher Destito Jr. and his fiancé Jennifer Calandra; his brothers Frank Destito and Orlando Destito; and sister and brother-in-law Daphne and Bill Miklovic. Destito was a partner in his family’s businesses, the former Beeches Restaurant and Conference Center,
From left are Jennifer Calandra, Christopher Destito Jr., RoAnn Destito, Daphne and Bill Miklovic. The family has made a donation to Nascentia Health toward the the renovations of the event and conference center at the upcoming Nascentia Neighborhood at the Beeches in Rome. The Inn at the Beeches, and the Savoy Restaurant. He was involved in many community organizations until his Jan. 21, 2010 death. RoAnn shared that he was one of the founders of the Honor America Days and Mohawk Valley EDGE.
Nascentia Health purchased the former Beeches in April 2021 and have announced their plans to renovate and transform the 52-acre property to an “aging-in-place” community, while continuing to provide a conference center as an events
Excellus BCBS appoints senior VP of human capital management
Lori Florack has been appoint ed senior vice president of human capital management at Excellus BlueCross BlueShield. Florack most recently served as president of Lifetime Benefit Solutions (LBS), Lori Florack a subsidiary of the Rochester–based Lifetime Healthcare Companies, where she oversaw the strategic plan and executive leadership of the organization. “Since joining our team in 2010, Lori has established strong relationships and focused on engaging our workforce,” said Jim Reed, President and CEO of Excellus BCBS. “During her time as president of LBS, she led a major business transformation that has been credited in part to her team’s laser focus on culture and people.” As senior vice president of human capital management at Excellus BCBS, Florack is responsible for providing strategic leadership to advance the organization’s overall health and workforce through culture, talent management, total rewards, and inclusion practices. Florack is a graduate of SUNY Fredonia and Baruch College, where she earned her master’s degree. She began her career at Andiamo Partners in New York. She joined Excellus BCBS in 2010 serving as the leader of the organizational development department, sales training, and the director of talent management. A board member of the Rochester Education Foundation and the Penfield Presbyterian Early Learning Center, Florack also volunteers with the National Human Resources Association. Florack and her husband reside in Penfield and have two children.
venue to the public. “Chris would be very supportive of the fact that Nascentia is really impacting the community,” RoAnn said, “He loved the community and was very much in support of the people of Rome. Economic development, tourism and hospitality are all part of my husband’s legacy.” Nascentia President and CEO, Kate Rolf, expressed her appreciation for the donation and support that the Destito damily has provided to the Nascentia Neighborhood at The Beeches project. The proposed renovation plans will modernize the property to better meet the rapidly changing and often unmet needs of the aging adult population in the greater Rome area while preserving its history that the local community fondly remembers. The conference center is anticipated to open for hosting private and public events in 2023.
February 2022 • IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • Page 19
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