In Good Health: ROC #215 - July 2023

Older Population: Median Age in U.S Is Now 38.8

Baby boomers push median age of Americans up as births decline

The American population is older than it used to be, according to new U.S. Census data.

With fewer young children, more baby boomers and even more centenarians, the country's median age is

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higher — at 38.8 — and the share of people aged 65 and up more substantial, the report showed.

Among the most notable numbers is that the share of people 65 and older grew by more than one-third between the 2010 census and the 2020 census, and that the number of people reaching age 100 grew from more than 53,000 to more than 80,000. Meanwhile, millennials became adults or aged into their 30s, and fewer children were born between 2010 and 2020.

What does that all mean?

“Many more people who have the genetic makeup and environmental exposures that increase one's chances of getting to 100, but who would have otherwise died of what are now readily reversible problems, are able to fulfill their survival destiny,” Thomas Perls, a longevity expert and professor of medicine at Boston University, told the Associated Press.

The share of men living into old age is also larger, which can be attributed to improvements in medical care.

Some of the declines in younger people are attributed to women having babies later and to birth rates slowing during the 2007 to 2009 Great Recession and not recovering.

“In the short run, the crisis of work-family balance, the lack of affordable child care, stresses associated with health care, housing and employment stability, all put a damper on birth rates by increasing uncertainty and making it harder to decide to have and raise children,” Philip

Cohen, a sociologist at the University of Maryland, told the AP.

The 2020 data was delayed by nearly two years as the Census Bureau began a new privacy protection method that obscures respondent identity. The agency also had some trouble gathering information because of the pandemic, the AP reported.

The United States now has 331 million people. Those aged 65 and up comprised 16.8% of the U.S. population in 2020, a share that is still lower than other countries like Japan, Greece and Italy.

White people are the oldest cohort, with a median age of 44.5. Median age for Asian people was 37.2. Black Americans had a median age of 35.5. The youngest were Hispanic people with a median age of 30.

Age also varied by state, with Maine showing a median age of 45.1. Puerto Rico had a median of 45.2. These facts are attributed to baby boomers aging out of the workforce and people leaving Puerto Rico because of hurricanes and government mismanagement, the AP reported.

It matters that the country is getting older because there will be fewer working-age adults to support older Americans on Social Security and Medicare.

“In the long run, immigration is the only way the United States is going to avoid population decline,” Cohen said.

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Most Americans Don't Know What 988 Suicide Crisis Hotline Is For: Poll

Only 13% of American adults understand the purpose of the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline nearly a year after its widely publicized launch, a new survey from the Pew Charitable Trusts shows.

“There is an opportunity and a need for state and local leaders to launch inclusive awareness campaigns in the months ahead,” lead researcher and Pew senior manager Tracy Velázquez said in a statement, CNN reported.

“The federal government's most recent investment into 988 shows a commitment to building a strong crisis care infrastructure in the country — one that is critically important, given the many people experiencing mental health and substance use issues,” Velázquez added.

The 988 line began last year after it was changed from 1-800-273-TALK. It was previously called the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline.

Pew surveyed more than 5,000 adults in April, finding that once people knew about the 988 crisis line, about 7 in 10 said they were somewhat or highly likely to use it.

Respondents also had some concerns about where calling the line might lead them. About 2 in 5 of those surveyed worried that calling 988 would lead to police arriving at their home, being forced to go to the hospital, being charged for services they couldn't afford or having other people learn about the call.

Race played a part in the results: Twice as many white people as Black people were aware of the 988 line. College-educated respondents were more aware of the line than those with a high school degree or less.

Call volume has increased in the past year, with 160,000 more calls, chats and texts in April 2023 than the previous April, which were also answered more quickly than with the previous hotline.

Calls increased 52%, chats increased 90% and texts answered increased 1,022%, CNN reported.

Meet Your Doctor

By Chris Motola Susan M. Gillespie, M.D.

New geriatrician at Jewish Senior Life wants to focus on systems and processes designed to meet the needs of older adults; she recalls meeting at the White House to discuss COVID-19 vaccination policies

Q: You're bringing an administrative background in geriatric medicine to Jewish Senior Life.

A: I am a geriatrician with a lifelong interest in acute and long-term care of older adults and those with chronic medical conditions. I was raised in the Southern Tier; I grew up in Horseheads. I went to Cornell where I started my medical career after majoring in nutritional science. I worked as a dietitian after that. I decided to return to school to become a physician at the University of Virginia. Then I came to Rochester for my residency in internal medicine. I caught the Rochester bug and stayed here for my fellowship in geriatric medicine and training in palliative medicine. So I spent a lot of my career in Rochester taking care of individuals in post-acute and long-term care settings. I am a certified medical director as you mentioned, so I've had in interest in processes and how they happen in nursing facilities and how we ensure good policies and procedures to take care of the folks who are here. And I've done that in a variety of settings. Immediately prior to coming to Jewish Senior Life, I was overseeing the medical aspects of geriatric care at the VA Finger Lakes Health System.

adults. There are a variety of initiatives that have been put into place nationally and here at Jewish Senior Life to try to think about how to provide care that's centered on the person, what their goals and values are, and to provide them the most value for their care. Being attentive to things like the medications that they're on. Being attentive to processes and procedures that will help improve functional performance. So I think allowing the systems we have in place target those goals, and making sure we have the right sources of insurance and resources to support that type of care are the biggest challenges that we have right now.

Q: Overall do you find there are different challenges with the baby boomer generation than with older generations?

A: I think we've been thinking a lot about how to integrate technology into care and how to create living spaces that are designed to promote the best quality of life. I think our aging generation requires us to do that even better by, for example, setting up age-friendly systems to use technology and telemedicine to improve access to providers. I think similarly, some of the initiatives that have been put in place to think about the whole person are especially important for long-term care. How do we create engaging environments for our community, their families, their friends, while also allowing for advanced medical care for things that are very complex like wound care and intravenous therapies. And I think it's our current and future generations that are really driving this. So we have to think about both the social aspects of care and highly complex medical care.

Q: Can you give me an example of a program that does this?

A: At Jewish Senior Life I think that would be designs they applied to their long-term care settings, building cottages that are home-like, where older adults are able to live and share in a space where they have private residences but also a lot of opportunities for social interaction. And they can still receive a high level of medical care

when appropriate for complex needs. It challenges the traditional perception of what a nursing home looks like in an institutional setting. It's friendly and welcoming while still being able to deliver very complex care.

Q: What were some of the lessons learned during the pandemic in terms of balancing the physical safety of older adults with their social and psychological needs?

A: So the organization that is the professional home for medical providers in long-term care is AMDA [The Society for Post-Acute and Long-Term Care]. And I had the great privilege of working as AMDA president over the past year. So thinking about the pandemic and the impact it's had on this care space are near and dear to me. I think we are at an interesting time with respect to the pandemic. It illuminated many opportunities for us to improve the care of older adults. I had the opportunity to visit the White House and sit with other professional society leaders and discuss how to improve vaccination rates and treatment rates for older adults who had COVID-19. There's a lot of information and opinions going out, so having a relationship between a good medical provider and an individual trying to make decisions is very important. Another thing that was illuminated was resource availability. Do we have the right experts in the building? Do we have the processes in place to keep our elders safe but also engaged? I think we learned a lot through that time and are now looking at how to leverage that information.

Q: What kind of impact do you want to have at Jewish Senior Life administratively?

A: I'm very excited to be part of the team at Jewish Senior Life. I think part of the appeal for me was the strength and quality of the medical staff and the interest in taking care of complex individuals, and taking a critical role in the care of our Rochester community. I worked with the staff in a lot of different capacities over the years, so I look forward to contributing to the team and working on the continuum of older adults in our community in a way that improves functioning and quality of care. I'm excited to be a part of not only the processes that are in place but also looking to implement changes in the space when needed.

Lifelines

Name: Susan M. Gillespie, M.D.

Position: Attending physician and associate medical director at Jewish Senior Life

Hometown: Horseheads

Education: Medical degree from University of Virginia (2001), fellowship in geriatric medicine at URMC (2042005), residency in internal medicine at URMC (2004-2005), fellowship in geriatrics medicine at Monroe Community Hospital (2005-2006)

Highlight: Educator of the Year (2013), URMC

Affiliations: University of Rochester

School of Medicine and Dentistry

Organizations: The Society for PostAcute and Long-Term Care (AMDA); The Geriatric Society; American College of Physicians

Family: Two daughters (16 and 18)

Hobbies: Baking; spinning classes

Pain, Tingling or Numbness in Your Feet?

By Andrea Ide

Pain, Tingling, or Numbness in your hands, feet or legs may be due to Nerve Damage. If left untreated this small annoyance can lead to big problems. Unfortunately, most people have no idea what to do abut this problem and some don’t even realize how big of a problem it is. They tell their doctor who gives them drugs and injections which only mask the pain and there is no surgery, other than amputation, that will heal/stop neuropathy from progressing.

Neuropathy is a term used to describe damaged nerves, primarily in the hands and/or feet, that are progressively breaking down due to a lack of blood supply, nutrients and oxygen reaching the nerves along with a lack of communication from the brain. Since the nerves are what the brain uses to communicate with the area and they are breaking down, the brains ability to communicate with the area lessens over tine, allowing for the progression of more breakdown and worse symptoms. It can be caused by Diabetes, Poor Ciculation, Poor Nutrition, Chemotherapy, Agent Orange, Misaligned Spinal Bones Placing Pressure on the Nerves, along with over 100 other causes. “Patients experience extreme sensations, loss of feeling, even No Feelings in their Hands and/or Feet along with muscle spasms, pain, weakness, numbness, tingling, and burning and many have a very hard time with balance” says Dr. Nathan Riddle of Riddle Wellness, a Neuropathy testing and treatment clinic.

This condition can eventually lead to further nerve damage, causing complete loss of legs or arms leading to amputation, death or brain injury due to falls, burns or other injuries that will not heal, along with organ failure in some cases.

Are you or someone you love suffering with loss of balance, numbness or pain from Nerve Damage in your hands and/or feet that just won’t heal? You don’t have to any longer. This local clinic right here in Rochester, NY is helping people find lasting relief without the use of drugs or surgery! That’s BIG EWS!

HEALING IS POSSIBLE

More than 20 million people in the U.S. Are dealing with some form of Neuropathy. Most commonly noticed first in the hands or feet, causing weakness, numbness, tingling pain and debilitating balance problems, often frustrated with no place to turn to and no hope of recovery. “By the time they come to see us, they feel like they have tried everything. Their MD put them on Anti-Seizure or Epilepsy meds like Gabapentin, Neurotin, Cymbalta or Lyrica and told them they will just have to live with the pain,” said Dr. Riddle.

ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY

With recent advancements in nerve regeneration technology and treatment options, clinics all over are seeing larger success rates and faster results with their neuropathy patients.

“This new technology paired with our multifaceted approach, has been life altering for our patients and our clinic,” said Dr. Riddle.

The development and success of these new, highly effective Neuropathy Protocols by Dr. Riddle and his team at Riddle Wellness have been the talk of the town in recent months. “Neuropathy patients have been coming in from all over the state and the results that they are getting is truly amazing,” said the Patient Coordinator at the Clinic. There are some things people can do at home to aide in the healing process of their neuropathy however, healing neuropathy is an all-encompassing process that ill require lifestyle changes, home care and may or may not include chiropractic, (varying from patient to patient) along with guidance from a medical professional that is experienced, skilled and trained to treat neuropathy.

Dr. Riddle and his skilled care team in Rochester have been treating neuropathy for years now in and judging by their 5 Star patient reviews, and all their patient video testimonials, they have been doing a very good job providing excellent patient care. One person had all but given up, they were crying in their testimonial. They were so thankful and its all because of this amazing new treatment option! They state it

New Treatment Options for Neuropathy

ing pain, numbness, tingling, pins and needle sensations, cramps and burning in your feet, or hands, along with the many other bodily symptions this horrible condition plagues people with, take action because it will progress.

Not everyone is able to start care at the clinic but, those who do are thankful! Find out if you are a candidate for their Neuropathy Protocols so they can help you regain the feeling in your hands or feet, stop the pain and start living life again! “Our Neuropathy Protocol is a multifaceted approach to heal neuropathy by nurturing the nervous system, increasing circulation, blood and oxygen, working to rebuild, strengthen and balance the body, all while stimulating the damaged nerves. Revitalizing and healing the damaged areas, enabling them to reactivate and function at an increasingly higher rate over time, all while increasing the patients quality of life dramatically,” said Dr. Riddle.

has about a 98% effective rate!

FIND LASTING RELIEF

Claim Your Voucher Now for a Consultation & Examination to determine if you are a good candidate for treatment... Dr. Riddle and his care team are here once again to help readers learn about new options for finding pain relief! Call the clinic today to receive your comprehensive (normally $250).

The clinic utilizes the most advanced Pain Free Testing and a full, easy to understand report of finding

with Dr. Riddle going over your options for care if you are able to move forward.

Call 585-670-0020 and use Code NUMB0021. They have agreed to reduce their usual cost of $250.

But hurry, due to the number of patients the office can see, this is a limited time offer, with only 25 spaces at this exclusively discounted rate. These will be on a first come, first serve basis, messages left will count. My advise, don’t suffer any longer, waiting around for it to get worse... If you or your loved one is experienc-

Over the years they have treated thousands of patients with chronic conditions of Neuropathy, Sciatic nerve pain, Back & Neck problems, Whiplash Injuries along with Knee Pain. The office is well known and has a good reputation. Patients drive hours to this clinic and the vast majority enjoy superior, lasting relief. In fact, many who have suffered and tried other treatment options with no luck, only to have been told that they are just stuck with their pain and discomfort, have credited the care team at Dr. Riddle office for giving them their lives back!

Call them now at their Rochester, NY location, for a full, thorough Consultation and extensive Neuropathy Consultation at $49. Use Code: NUMB0021 (saving you over $200) to determine if and how Dr. Riddle and his team can help you recover, just as they have helped so many others that suffer with the Pain and Numbness of Nerve Damage.

“I feel like myself again. The pain is gone and I am even sleeping through the night”

~Gill B. Rochester NY

Healthcare in a Minute

By George W. Chapman

OB-GYN Exodus

It should come as no surprise that OB-GYNs in states with restrictive or confusing abortion laws are considering moving to states that won’t interfere in the care between doctor and patient. The Kaiser Family Foundation published an article about what is happening in Idaho, which just passed a restrictive abortion law. Seventy-five of 117 Idaho OB-GYNs surveyed by the Idaho Coalition for Safe Reproductive Healthcare indicated they were considering leaving the state. Of the 75, 73 said it was because of the newly passed restrictive abortion law. Rural hospitals, typically staffed with minimal OB-GYN physicians, may be forced

Rise to Health

The American Medical Association (AMA), the Institute for Healthcare Improvement (IHI) and Race Forward are collaborating as “Rise to Health” to mitigate the barriers that must be overcome to achieve health equity among us all. Barriers such as cost, access, isolation, housing and food security and racism, all impede health equity. The three organizations representing providers, payers, pharma and numerous professional societies and associations are combining their heretofore disparate efforts in the battle against impediments to equity and establish a set of common measurements and goals. Hopefully, Rise to Health will address our fragmented healthcare system which frustrates providers and consumers alike.

to close maternal services, forcing pregnant women to travel hundreds of miles out of state to deliver. OBGYNs provide a lot more health services to women besides maternal care. So, their departure from states with restrictive abortion laws will have a far greater impact on women’s overall healthcare than anticipated. A research paper published in February found 76% (3 of 4) current and future (residents and medical students) OBGYNs won’t even apply to work in states with restrictive abortion laws. The threat of potential fines and even imprisonment was too much of a deterrent.

study by J.D. Powers based on 32,656 interviews, customer satisfaction with commercial insurance plans is declining especially among Gen Y and Gen Z generations. Particularly low scores were given to customer service and communication. Only 17% of those who identified their health status as poor or fair were assigned a case manager. Care fragmentation (multiple providers and several prescriptions) usually leads to high costs, poor outcomes and increased patient frustration. Other scores that declined from previous studies were in coverage and benefits and provider choice. Low scores from new members indicate a need for insurers to do better job of onboarding or how to access benefits and navigate our complicates and fragmented healthcare system. Interestingly, digital health tool usage remained low.

business (private physicians and hospitals), a 70% decrease in urgent care business a 1% decrease in emergency room business. (The decrease in non-emergent visits in ERs is a good decrease.) The pandemic was probably a major cause for the 200% increase at retail clinics as consumers got used to getting vaccines and COVID-19 testing there, so primary care usage at these locations grew by association and convenience. Being associated with a drug chain like CVS or Walgreens further enhanced the convenience, continuity of care and one-stop shopping. Ninety percent of retail health clinics are owned by six huge corporations with CVS being the biggest. Believe it or not, the second largest operator of retail clinics is grocery giant Kroger. So, you can see your doctor, get a vaccination, get tested, get your prescription and grab a dozen eggs all in the same place. Most retail clinics are in the Southwest and Midwest.

Monitor BP by Phone

The CDC estimates almost half of adults have hypertension. Engineers at UC San Diego have developed a simple clip that works with your smartphone camera and flash. It costs less than $1. It is so cheap it could be handed out by providers to their patients so they can easily monitor their blood pressure at home without the hassle of cuffs and BP monitors. The product is not yet available as the engineers are working on making the clip as user friendly as possible.

Healthcare in the Metaverse

ing from the pandemic are struggling to break even.

Customer Satisfaction Declining

According to a recently released

Retail Clinic Usage Soars

Over last five years, retail clinics have experienced a 200% increase in business. Compare that to a 13% decrease in traditional primary care

Ever since Facebook introduced the metaverse (a digital world using virtual and augmented reality headsets) cash-rich CVS has filed for a trademark to sell their products in the metaverse. The pharmacy giant will begin to transition some in-store services like primary care, nutrition and wellness counseling to virtual. As they do so, a lot of people will lose their jobs as they plan to close 900 stores. CVS revenue last year was a staggering $304 billion. Meanwhile, cash-strapped hospitals still recover-

Caring for Resistant Elderly Parents

You want to help but your 80-plus-year-old parents are resistant. They are confused or believe you are interfering or they are afraid of losing their independence. Possibly all the above. It is the dilemma confronting most family caregivers. Negotiation and dispute resolution may be the answer. Researchers at Northwest University conclude the very same negotiation and dispute resolution tactics that work for businesses can work for families. 1) Determine the clinical, personal and financial issues.

2) What are your parents’ positions?

3) Lay out what are you willing to do as caregiver. 4) Find common ground. 5) What are your parents’ fears? Both real and perceived. Mitigate everyone’s emotions.

6) Ask questions, don’t present parents with edicts. 7) Agree you are all on the same team. 8) If all fails, seek third party help from social workers, family psychologists or case managers. Above all, don’t let the relationship with your parents devolve into resentment.

Cost of Care Up 5.6% This Year

The average annual increase in the cost of care since 2021 is 4.8%. According to the Milliman Medial Index, healthcare now costs a family of four just over $31,000 this year. It’s $7,221 for an individual. Healthcare inflation tends to lag six months to a year behind general inflation, so 2024 costs will probably go even higher. Driving costs up are supply chain problems, cost of drugs, labor shortages, ransomware attacks and catching up on the backlog of procedures postponed during the pandemic. Milliman expects employees will bear 60% of the increases. As discussed in an earlier column, commercial insurers are recoding record profits.

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.

SUMMER CONCERT SERIES!

Another Reason to Hate Mondays: Higher Risk for Severe Heart Attacks

Monday can be a downer as folks leave weekend play behind. Now, researchers say Monday might also be the most common day for deadly heart attacks.

Doctors at the Belfast Health and Social Care Trust and the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland determined this by analyzing patient data in Ireland, though they can't determine the reason why.

Past research has suggested it might have to do with circadian rhythm — the body's sleep-wake cycle.

“Someone is admitted to hospital due to a life-threatening heart attack every five minutes in the U.K., so it's vital that research continues to shed light on how and why heart attacks happen,” said Nilesh Samani, medical director at the British Heart Foundation.

“This study adds to evidence around the timing of particularly serious heart attacks, but we now need to unpick what it is about certain days of the week that makes them more likely,” Samani said in a heart foundation news release. “Doing so could help doctors better understand this deadly condition so we can save more lives in future.”

For the study, the researchers analyzed data from more than 10,500 patients across Ireland, in both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland, who were admitted to a hospital between 2013 and 2018 with the

most serious type of heart attack.

The ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) happens when a major coronary artery is completely blocked.

The study found a spike in rates of STEMI heart attacks at the start of the working week, with rates highest on a Monday. However, they also found higher-than-expected rates of STEMI on Sunday.

In the United Kingdom, more than 30,000 people are admitted to the hospital with STEMI each year, requiring emergency assessment and treatment to minimize damage to the heart. Typically, this involves an emergency angioplasty, a procedure to reopen the blocked coronary artery.

“We've found a strong statistical correlation between the start of the working week and the incidence of STEMI,” said cardiologist Jack Laffan, who led the research at the Belfast Health and Social Care Trust. “This has been described before but remains a curiosity. The cause is likely multifactorial, however, based on what we know from previous studies, it is reasonable to presume a circadian element.”

The findings were presented in June at the British Cardiovascular Society annual conference. Findings presented at medical meetings should be considered preliminary until published in a peer-reviewed journal.

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In Good Health is published 12 times a year by Local News, Inc. © 2023 by Local News, Inc. All rights reserved. P.O. Box 525, Victor NY 14564. Phone: 585-421-8109 • Email: Editor@GVhealthnews.com

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No material may be reproduced in whole or in part from this publication without the express written permission of the publisher. The information in this publication is intended to complement—not to take the place of—the recommendations of your health provider. Consult your physician before making major changes in your lifestyle or health care regimen.

Join us Tuesdays 6:30–8:00 pm on The Village Green!

Enjoy concessions from The Village Catering and The Beer Wagon. Bring a lawn chair or blanket and come out to enjoy a evening of free music. (No outside food or beverages allowed.)

July 11th ME & THE BOYZ | Your favorite party music!

July 25th THE BOB GRECO BAND | Disco Night

Aug. 8th 8 DAYS A WEEK | Beatles Tribute Band

Aug. 22nd NIGHTFALL AFTER DARK | Hits from the ’60s to the ’80s

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1471 Long Pond Road | Rochester, NY 14626 585-206-2103 | thevillageatunity.com

By Gwenn Voelckers

Practical tips, advice and hope for those who live alone

The Summertime Blues: Are you feeling lonely?

Summer has finally arrived. Woo hoo!! Time for barbecues, picnics, festivals and fun!

For many people, the summer months provide welcome relief from the soggy transition from winter to spring. Out of the gloom, summer emerges with longer, brighter and warmer days filled with the promise of travel, socializing, and connecting with friends and family.

So why are you feeling so lonely?

As it turns out, the arrival of summer isn’t embraced by everyone. If you live alone and feel socially isolated, summertime can pose a real challenge. It’s easy to feel like an outsider, looking in on other people’s fun-filled days and activities.

After my divorce, I had bouts of the blues and spent too much time alone. I let my relationships with friends and family drift away and my world became very small and quiet.

Sometimes the loneliness would overwhelm me and I’d lose my oomph for doing much of anything. I became a spectator, rather than a participant, in life.

Feel familiar?

Eventually my phone stopped ringing and the weekends stretched out before me like a long, lonesome highway. Without companionship, a beautiful summer day left me feeling heartbroken.

I knew something had to change.

An attitude adjustment was in order. Specifically, I needed to remind

myself that my life is in my hands — that I’m responsible for how lonely (or not) I am, and that I’m in charge of how large or small my life is.

So what did I do? I picked up the phone, called a girlfriend, and made plans for us to get together. Then I picked up the phone again and left a text message for my sister, asking her to give me a call.

And I didn’t stop there.

The next day, I worked up the nerve, rehearsed a few words, and made a third call to a neighbor who also lives alone. I asked if he wanted to take a walk later that evening. He asked for a rain check, but that was OK. We made plans to take a walk the following week, which gave me something nice to anticipate.

I then shifted to my computer and sent out a few “Hi, it’s been too long!” emails to friends, inviting them over to see (and admire!) my newly installed patio garden. I wanted to share it. And to show it off. Why not, right? It’s rewarding to hear “oohs” and “aahs,” and sometimes we need to create our own opportunities for positive feedback.

I was on a roll, and it was illuminating to see how easily I could change my circumstances by doing just a few small things — by converting my newly adjusted attitude into action.

Within weeks, my phone was ringing again, emails and texts were arriving, and I had entered a few

Signs Your Toddler Might Have ADHD

Spotting ADHD early can ensure children with the condition get the help they need sooner rather than later.

But how can parents know if the behavior they're seeing in their child is a sign of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder or merely the mercurial mood and behavior swings of a toddler?

An expert at the Kennedy Krieger Institute in Baltimore offers some guidance.

"Research shows that children with ADHD have abnormal brain development, meaning that ADHD has a biological basis that often makes it a lifelong condition," Mark Mahone, director of neuropsychology, said on the institute's website. "We want to catch ADHD early because it has such a profound effect on learning and academic development. Chil-

dren whose symptoms begin in early childhood are at the highest risk for academic failure and grade repetition."

The team at Kennedy Krieger was among the first to study preschoolers' brains for signs of ADHD using neuroimaging. The researchers found that children with ADHD have a smaller caudate nucleus, a brain structure associated with thinking skills and motor control.

Up to 40% of children have significant attention problems by age 4. ADHD is the most common mental health disorder among preschoolers. About one in 11 school-aged children have an ADHD diagnosis.

Mahone encourages parents to pay close attention to their toddler's behavior.

Look for these specific signs: Your child dislikes or avoids activi-

social events into my calendar. Life felt better!

Part of what motivates me when I find myself in a slump is a passage I found in a sweet little book called “Living Alone and Lovin’ It,” by Barbara Feldon.

In one particularly helpful chapter on loneliness, she recounts a heart-to-heart she had with an “older and very wise friend” named Leo. She was brooding about being lonely and shared how much she wanted to feel loved and protected again, the way she felt when she was a child.

Leo responded quite bluntly: “But you’re not a child and don’t have a child’s needs. A child is in danger without company because it’s helpless, but an adult has access to any need imaginable: food, medicine, companionship. All an adult has to do is pick up the phone…”

Good friends can be such a help! Especially when they tell it like it is. Barbara was energized by Leo’s no-excuses straight talk, and indirectly so was I. As adults, we can

exercise choices; we can choose to stay in a slump or choose to pick up the phone.

My prediction should you start to reach out? Little by little your world will expand, with one connection spawning another, and another, and yet another.

Before you know it, your feelings of loneliness will lessen and you'll be on your way to banishing the summertime blues!

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

ties that require paying attention for more than one or two minutes. He or she loses interest and moves on to something else after only a few moments.

Talking a lot more and making more noise than other children of the same age can also be an indicator. So, too, can climbing on things when told not to do that.

Children with ADHD may not be able to hop on one foot by age 4. They are nearly always restless, constantly twisting in a seat or kicking their feet. They insist they must get up after being seated for just a few

minutes.

Kids with ADHD may warm up to strangers too quickly or fearlessly get into dangerous situations. They can be aggressive with playmates or get injured by moving too fast.

"If parents observe these symptoms and have concerns about their child's development, they should consult with their pediatrician or another developmental expert," Mahone said. "There are safe and effective treatments that can help manage symptoms, increase coping skills and change negative behaviors to improve academic and social success."

Q & A with Darrell Whitbeck

President and CEO of CP Rochester, Happiness House and Rochester Rehab Center, who took over position in March, talks about expanding housing, increasing autism services and more

By Todd Etshman

Ability Partners, which consists of CP Rochester, Happiness House and Rochester Rehab, provides a lifetime of inclusive opportunities and services to people of all abilities.

Darrell Whitbeck in March replaced Mary Walsh Boatfield as president and CEO.

These three agencies play critical roles in supporting the economic well-being of the communities in which they operate, employing more than 700 staff and serving 6,800 individuals and families in the greater Rochester and Finger Lakes areas with a combined operating budget of $36 million, annually.

The agencies provide a host of services and programs, including early intervention, preschool special education, outpatient clinical services, social support services and various housing opportunities.

Q: What drew you to nonprofit work and helping people with developmental disabilities?

A: From a young age, I always found joy in helping others and this mindset set the stage for a lifelong journey that guided me to the nonprofit sector. Starting my career as an occupational therapist, I was fortunate to join Happiness House, my first job after graduating from college. The impact of this reward-

ing work became evident to me rather quickly. The people I've had the privilege to serve, along with their families, have been the driving force behind a remarkably fulfilling career. Additionally, it's important to mention that this field tends to attract some of the most compassionate individuals.

Q: What type of disabilities does CP Rochester and Happiness House assist?

A: Under Ability Partners umbrella, we provide comprehensive support to people of all abilities. This includes those facing disadvantages, individuals with disabilities and those without disabilities. Our services extend to assisting individuals with economic disadvantages, those with intellectual and developmental disabilities, those who have experienced traumatic brain injuries or other acquired disabilities, as well as offering behavioral and mental health services to those in need.

Q: What goals do you have for the future of the agencies you oversee?

A: Our agencies have always been driven by the mission to address unmet needs within our community. While this will undoubtedly lead us in many directions, we also have plans to expand our current offerings. An area we aim to grow is housing, as it remains a critical need

within our communities. Another notable initiative is the Golisano Autism Center, where CP Rochester serves as a founding member, and Happiness House provides preschool special education services. The demand for these services is exceptionally high and we want to meet the need for those services. Furthermore, our agencies provide an array of clinical services, including physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, behavioral health, and dental services.

Q: What are some of the challenges people with cerebral palsy and autism face in their lives today? Has their quality of life improved over time?

A: The quality of life for individuals with I/DD has certainly improved over time. With that said, there is still work to be done in the pursuit of fully inclusive communities. A key challenge revolves around access to work and housing opportunities which has a significant impact on individuals with I/DD, including those with autism. It is no secret that everyone is struggling with a workforce shortage and it is crucial to recognize the valuable contributions individuals with disabilities can bring to the workplace, yet there are limited inclusive opportunities for individuals with disabilities to access meaningful work.

Q: Are you facing some of the same recruiting issues as other agencies are in finding enough employees and staff?

A: The workforce crisis is front and center when it comes to the challenges that significantly impact our partner agencies. Years of inadequate funding, compounded by the impact of the pandemic and recent inflationary growth, have exacerbated a decades-long workforce crisis. Statewide, there is a staggering 20% staff vacancy rate in our field, with annual turnover costs exceeding $100 million for non-profit providers. These numbers are alarming, unsustainable, and have severe consequences for individuals with disabilities in New York who are losing critical support. We must work together to create an environment that values and supports the dedicated professionals who make a difference in the lives of those in need.

Q: How does our city compare to others in the assistance it provides to people with CP and autism?

A: While there is always room for innovation and improvement, I feel that the Greater Rochester and Finger Lakes regions have a great network of providers focused on meeting the needs of our communities.

The Golisano Autism Center is a one-of-a-kind establishment, founded by Al Sigl, AutismUp and CP Rochester. The center is specifically designed to grow and adapt to the evolving needs of the community and its success has been a model that providers have studied in an effort to develop similar settings in other cities.

Q: Can you describe the major sources of funding for your agencies and how successful they are in meeting agency needs?

A: The majority of our services heavily relies on public funding and has been subject to chronic underfunding. While we have been fortunate to subsidize some of the underfunding through community fundraising efforts, this model is not

a sustainable model in the long run. Achieving health equity for this specialty population, in which services are properly funded through statewide policy, is critical to the viability of services.

Q: How important are volunteers in the success of your mission? Is it difficult to attract enough volunteers?

A: Ability Partners’ agencies are fortunate to have a dedicated and robust volunteer base to help ensure the success of our missions. Volunteers actively participate in all of our center-based programming and also contribute to enriching activities within our residential programs. Their involvement has been instrumental to our operations. Without the investment in a well-developed volunteer department, it would be difficult to achieve the same level of support and engagement from volunteers that we currently enjoy.

Q: How much innovation is required for your agencies to be successful?

A: The ability to innovate is essential for the long-term viability of our agencies. As providers in our field, we offer critical services to some of our communities’ most vulnerable members. In order to ensure ongoing success, it is imperative that we constantly evolve and adapt our program to meet the changing needs of the communities we serve, while navigating the fiscal challenges we face.

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WORTH SUPPORTING

Things You Need to Know About Men’s Health

By Ernst Lamothe Jr.

Men’s health encompasses everything from physical, mental and social aspects.

Health challenges can include chronic conditions to acute illnesses. Men are also at risk of suffering from heart disease, cancer, diabetes, depression and anxiety.

These risks range from lifestyle choices such as poor diet, stress and lack of exercise to biological and genetic factors.

“Men often face societal pressure to be strong, independent and stoic, which can lead to a reluctance to seek help for mental health issues,” said physician Hemant Kalia, president of the Monroe County Medical Society. "Discussing men's mental health openly and destigmatizing mental health challenges can encourage men to seek support and resources when needed.”

Kalia, who is also the managing director of Invision Health in Rochester, offers five tips for men’s health.

1.Myths

One of the most overall common myths that patients tell their physician is that they feel healthy so there is no need to see a doctor.

However, there is a clear distinction between feeling well and being healthy.

“Many men believe that they only need to seek medical attention when they are visibly unwell. However, routine check-ups and preventive screenings are crucial for early detection and treatment of potential health issues,” said Kalia.

2.Risk factors

Several risk factors increase the chances of developing health problems. Twelve percent of men age 18 and older are in fair or poor health, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. In addition, more than 50% of men older than 20 have hypertension.

Colon cancer remains one of the most preventable cancers around. Colorectal cancer occurs when there is beyond control growth of abnormal cancerous cells in the colon. The colon is a tube-like structure in the large intestine connecting to the small intestine, which removes water, few nutrients and electrolytes from partially digested food. The American Cancer Society estimated that one in 23 men develops colorectal

choice

cancer during their lifetime.

“Men tend to experience higher rates of conditions such as prostate cancer, testicular cancer, cardiovascular diseases, workplace injuries and substance abuse,” Kalia added. “Men have a higher risk of completed suicides and shorter life expectancy compared to women, emphasizing the importance of addressing and promoting awareness of these gender-specific health concerns.”

3.See a physician

All men should have a yearly wellness visit to screen for potential health problems. Bloodwork to check cholesterol levels and screen for diabetes is equally important.

“Men should prioritize yearly check-ups with their primary care physician, which may include screenings for blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes and colorectal cancer. Additionally, regular self-exams for testicular health should be performed to detect any abnormalities or signs of testicular cancer,” he added.

4.Early detection

Early detection is one of the greatest tools to prevent severe illness and death. By screening regularly, physicians can decrease the extent and severity of heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes and cancers.

“Early detection is crucial as it leads to better treatment outcomes, increased treatment options, prevention of complications, cost-effectiveness, improved quality of life and peace of mind for individuals. Regular check-ups, screenings and self-examinations play a vital role in identifying health conditions at an early stage,” he said.

Health experts from the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force have made recommendations, based on scientific evidence about various ailments. Talk to your doctor about prostate health, obesity, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, colorectal cancer, diabetes, depression, sexually transmitted diseases and other screenings.

5.Key factors

High blood pressure is a common condition that affects the body's arteries. It's also called hypertension. If you have high blood pressure, the force of the blood pushing against the artery walls is consistently too high. The heart has to work harder to pump blood.

“Regular monitoring of blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and cancer screenings can help identify problems before they become more serious,” said Kalia.

Frank chose non-surgical CyberKnife® at HOA –offering 5 treatments instead of 35!

“The original diagnosis was to treat my prostate cancer with seven weeks of radiation, five days a week. I was kind of upset that I was never given the option of CyberKnife,” said Frank. “The precise radiation achieved by CyberKnife, far fewer treatments, and the personalized care I received from Dr. Chin and his team made my decision an easy one. Better, the treatment was a real success!”

To hear more of Frank’s story and learn if CyberKnife is right for you, visit hoacny.com

Frank Guido couldn’t be happier he had a

for treating his prostate cancer!

Physician Hemant Kalia.

Know the Signs of Heat Exhaustion

We’ve already had some sizzling days, and there will be many more this summer. Not everyone responds to the heat in the same way, and for some people, a stretch of high temperatures can be deadly.

Heat-related illness, known as hyperthermia, results from exposure to extreme heat, with the body unable to properly cool. Prompt treatment with fluids and cooling the core body temperature are critical to reducing illness and preventing death.

“The elderly are prone to heat exhaustion since, as we age, our bodies don’t regulate heat as well as they did when we were younger,” says physician Lorna Fitzpatrick, vice president for medical affairs and senior medical director at Excellus BlueCross BlueShield. “Often, seniors aren’t aware of the impact of high temperatures on their bodies until it’s too late,”

In addition to the elderly, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says people at greatest risk for heat-related illness include those who are overweight or have existing medical conditions, such as diabetes and heart disease.

Among the symptoms of heat exhaustion are headache, nausea, dizziness, weakness, irritability, thirst, heavy sweating (or no sweating), elevated body temperature, muscle cramping, and decreased urine output. If untreated, heat exhaustion may progress to heat stroke, a life-threatening condition that can damage the brain or other vital organs and, in severe cases, cause multiple organ system failure. Fitzpatrick offers the following tips to prevent heat-related illness:

• Check on those at risk. During a heat wave, frequently check on people at risk, such as the elderly, disabled, or homebound. Check on them at least twice a day.

• Ask your health care provider if you or someone you care for is vulnerable to excessive heat. Some conditions or medications can impair the body’s ability to regulate temperature, inhibit perspiration, or restrict how much fluid can be consumed.

• Wear light clothing. On extremely hot days, dress in lightweight, light-colored, and loose-fitting clothes.

• Drink liquids. In hot weather, make sure you, or the person you care for, consume an appropriate amount of nonalcoholic fluids. Stay away from beverages high in sugar or caffeine, as they cause the body to lose more fluid.

• Don’t wait until you feel thirsty to have a beverage. By the time you recognize the thirst, you are already in need of fluids.

• Take a cool shower or bath. Taking a shower or bath with room-temperature water will allow your body to cool.

First aid for someone with heat exhaustion includes immediate medical attention from an urgent care center or hospital emergency room. If medical care isn’t available, call 911 and stay with the individual until help arrives. Remove unnecessary clothing, including shoes and socks. Encourage frequent sips of cool water, and apply cold compresses to the head, neck, and face.

Submitted by Excellus BlueCross BlueShield

Physician Lorna Fitzpatrick, vice president for medical affairs and senior medical director at Excellus BlueCross BlueShield.

By Anne Palumbo

SmartBites The skinny on healthy eating

Move Over Prunes, It’s Kiwi Time!

Every once in a while, I come across information about a certain food that takes me by complete surprise. I read it and whisper, “Who knew?” I consider friends and family who might benefit from this goldmine of information. And then, I can’t shut up about it.

That’s what happened with kiwis.

Oh, I knew they were beneficial all right — I just didn’t realize they had this particular benefit.

In a word, kiwis are “nature’s broom,” helping to unplug sluggish bowels with each delicious bite!

According to a recent study at Mayo Clinic, eating two kiwis per day was as powerful as prunes at increasing stool frequency and reducing straining. Physician Michael Camilleri, a gut motility specialist at the Mayo Clinic, said the sugar, fiber and other nutrients in kiwis can produce a laxative effect by increasing the water content and volume of stools.

Multiple studies also suggest that kiwis cause less gas, bloating and abdominal cramps than prunes.

Maybe that’s why kiwi-rich New Zealand is one of the happiest countries in the world: few are struggling with blocked bowels! As for here, well, so many are struggling with constipation, it’s our leading digestive complaint.

What’s no surprise is how high

these furry little fruits are in vitamin C, with one kiwi providing over 60% of our daily needs (more than an orange). Although widely known for its immune-boosting capabilities, vitamin C is also our skin’s best friend, creating derma-firming collagen, along with offering protection against age-accelerating sun damage. Research suggests that people who eat more vitamin C have fewer wrinkles.

Lastly, kiwis support heart health in impressive ways. They’re remarkably low in sodium, cholesterol and calories (only 44 per kiwi); they’re a good source of fiber, potassium, and folate (all associated with a lower risk of stroke); and they’re loaded with antioxidants, which help reduce the risk of chronic diseases by gobbling up damaging free radicals.

Anne Palumbo is a lifestyle columnist, 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.

WHO Says No to Artificial Sweeteners for Weight Loss

Skip artificial sweeteners if you're trying to lose weight, warns the World Health Organization (WHO), noting the sugar substitutes aren't effective for shedding pounds and may also cause harm.

Long-term use of sugar substitutes may cause "potential undesirable effects," according to new WHO guidance. This can include an "increased risk of Type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and mortality in adults,” CBS News reported.

Consuming foods and beverages with ingredients like saccharin or sucralose or adding them to foods "does not confer any long-term benefit in reducing body fat in adults or children,” the WHO said after completing a systematic review.

Among the artificial sweeteners WHO officials considered were ace-

sulfame K, aspartame, advantame, cyclamates, neotame, saccharin, sucralose, stevia and stevia derivatives, according to the news report.

“People need to consider other ways to reduce free sugars intake, such as consuming food with naturally occurring sugars, like fruit, or unsweetened food and beverages," said Francesco Branca, WHO director for nutrition and food safety.

Artificial sweeteners "are not essential dietary factors and have no nutritional value. People should reduce the sweetness of the diet altogether, starting early in life, to improve their health," Branca added.

These recommendations do not apply to people who already have diabetes, according to the review. That group was not included in the review.

Dressing:

Helpful Tips

Choose plump, unblemished fruits that yield slightly to gentle pressure. Firm kiwis, stored at room temperature away from direct sunlight, take about 2-3 days to ripen. To hasten the ripening process, place kiwis in a paper bag with an apple or banana. Ripe kiwis can last up to 4 weeks in the fridge. For optimum health benefits, go ahead and eat the skin (but not if you have a history of kidney stones).

COLORFUL KIWI SALAD WITH SAVORY DRESSING

Serves 4-6

2 tablespoons balsamic or red wine vinegar

2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

½ teaspoon salt

¼ teaspoon coarse black pepper

¾ teaspoon sugar

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

1-2 cloves garlic, minced

1/3 cup olive oil

Salad:

4-6 kiwis, peeled (or not), sliced into half-moons

3 cups strawberries, quartered

1 cup blueberries

6-8 cups salad mix of choice

½ cup feta or gorgonzola crumbles

In a tightly covered container, shake dressing ingredients until well blended.

Cut all fruit as directed above.

To assemble individual salads, first place greens in salad bowls and drizzle on a little dressing. Then, add cut fruit and drizzle on a little more. This method keeps the lettuce crisp and the fruit bright. Garnish with cheese of choice.

This isn't the only time these artificial sweeteners have raised concerns. Recently, erythritol, an ingredient in the stevia sweetener Truvia, was singled out because of potential harms.

Cleveland Clinic researchers found months ago that people with

higher blood erythritol levels were at greater risk of heart attack or stroke and of dying prematurely. The study, involving 4,000 people, also found that the sugar substitute made it easier for blood clots to form. Those findings were published in the journal Nature Medicine.

Weight Loss

Light Exercise: Not Enough for Weight Loss

To get into a calorie deficit, you need to eat right and move more, say experts

By Deborah Jeanne Sergeant

You’re walking every day, yet the number on the scale won’t budge.

What gives?

It’s likely that you’re not causing a calorie deficit — when your body is burning more calories than you’re ingesting, which forces it to burn stored energy.

To get into a calorie deficit, you need to eat right and move more.

“A lot of people, if they’re not counting their calories, subconsciously eat more after a light workout,” said Austyn Affronti, president of Affronti Fitness in Rochester, which consults on training and nutrition. “After getting their metabolism fired up, they’ll eat more. It obviously won’t help them lose weight.”

Consuming a post-workout shake, protein bar or sports drink? If

all you’re doing is a light workout, you need none of these. Instead, Affronti advises paying more attention to calorie intake and the type of calories, favoring protein and lowering carbohydrates and fat.

Taking leisurely stroll around the block is certainly better than doing nothing. However, it’s no calorie torch.

“Light exercise won’t work because in order for your body to change, you have to force it to do things it’s not used to doing. Your body won’t change if you do what you’re used to doing,” Affronti said.

Most smartphones come equipped with a fitness app that can help determine calories burned by activity based upon your weight. High calorie burners include running, martial arts, spinning, swimming, jumping rope and HIIT (high intensity interval training) workouts. They involve major muscle groups and continuous movement.

“Walking makes you healthier for managing stress, but it’s not a big calorie burn,” said Kerri Howell, online personal trainer, nutrition coach and owner of Rochester-based hourglassmom.com.

Many people overestimate how many calories they’re burning. Howell added that even monitors on gym equipment and wearable devices can be wildly inaccurate. She emphasizes movement throughout the day, in addition to workout periods, as burning calories is a cumulative effort.

Bryan Guzski, doctor of physical therapy and strength and conditioning specialist at Motive Physical Therapy in Brighton, recommends 150 minutes of moderate intensity exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise weekly to maintain the same weight. To lose weight, one will need to decrease caloric intake and move more.

Wear Weight to Lose Weight

By Deborah Jeanne Sergeant

Most people working on losing a significant amount of weight see prompt results when they first begin their efforts.

With minimal effort, such as walking each day or engaging in a short workout, the pounds seem to melt off at first.

As they progress in their weight loss program, it seems to become harder and harder to lose weight.

Even though they stick with their healthful, reduced calorie diet and exercise regimen, their weight loss plateaus for two reasons.

First, they’re adding muscle while reducing fat, so they may not see dramatically smaller numbers on the scale as they progress. Second, their body does not have to work as hard to carry around as much weight as when they first started losing weight.

That’s where wearable weights can make their fitness activities more dynamic.

“Anytime you add resistance or weight to any activity, your body will have to work more and generate more energy and use calories,” said Bryan Guzski, doctor of physical

therapy and strength and conditioning specialist at Motive Physical Therapy in Brighton. “It will increase calorie burn. Muscles are energy expensive.”

In addition to carrying hand weights such as kettle bells and dumbbells to bodyweight movements like squats and lunges, wearing weights can help. Donning a weighted vest while engaging in activities like running or calisthenic movements increases the work level of the muscles involved. It mimics the effect of their heavier body weight, forcing their muscles to work harder.

Guzski advised starting out with the lightest wearable weights for those new to wearing weight and for anyone new to exercise.

“If you’re just starting out, you need to build up to that point,” he said. “Going 0 to 100 with a weight vest can be too much too soon.”

It’s best to try on the devices in the store rather than purchasing them online (unless they’re returnable) to ensure a comfortable fit. Feeling wearable weights shifting during exercise is not ideal. Some wearable

“I gauge moderate as you feel like you’re working and breaking a sweat but you can still talk with the person next to you,” he said. “With vigorous, you’re not able to carry on a conversation.”

When it comes to losing weight, he places 80% of the effort needed in reducing calories and 20% on exercise portion.

“Some think you can exercise out of a poor diet, but that’s not necessarily true,” he said.

Not a fan of fad diets, which he said are not sustainable, he wants patients to view food as fuel for reaching health goals. But overall, the Mediterranean diet provides a healthful eating plan.

“It has lower sugar, healthy fats and is high in fruits and vegetables,” he said. “It’s low in processed foods. Cupcakes, cookies, chips and things like that are designed to make us crave them and give us a quick ‘high’ and like a lot of other addictive compounds, crash afterwards. Instead, consume whole, minimally processed foods.”

weights provide pockets to gradually fill as the user’s tolerance and strength increases. This can increase the usable life of wearable weights.

Austyn Affronti, president of Affronti Fitness in Rochester, believes that wearable weights can help burn more calories, but “if you’re just starting out, learn to use proper form,” he said. “Once you’re more advanced, you can use a weight vest. Otherwise, it can lead to joint injuries. Putting more load on you will build more muscular strength and endurance and help people get in better shape.”

Avoid using heavy weights on wrists and ankles, as these can cause too much stress on the joints.

A slow stroll with a dog on the park is always a healthy thing to do but it probably won’t cause people to lose weight.

Kerri Howell

Austyn Affronti

10 Things That May Help You to Lose Weight

By Deborah Jeanne Sergeant

1.Sleep enough

“What a lot of people don’t realize is that results rely on your ability to recover,” said Austyn Affronti, president of Affronti Fitness in Rochester. “You need enough sleep. Otherwise, it’s like working 40 hours and getting paid for 20.”

2.Stay active each day

“Match with your fitness skills the activities you do daily no matter what,” Affronti said.

3.Hydrate

“Every day, drink water,” Affronti added.

Unless you are sweating excessively from a workout, you do not need a sports recovery drink. Skip other sugary beverages such as sweetened tea, juice cocktails, soda and energy drinks as well. Most of these offer empty calories.

4.Make health your lifestyle

“Set a water, step, sleep, and protein goal and attribute them to achieve weight loss and now you’re thinking about weight loss all day long with your normal activities versus the 45 minutes you’re in the gym two to three days a week,” Affronti said. “It’s building a healthy lifestyle.”

5.Engage in resistance training

“The answer is to build more muscle,” said Kerri Howell, online personal trainer, nutrition coach and owner of Rochester-based hourglassmom.com. “Muscle is the body’s furnace. The more muscle you have, the more calories you burn just sitting at your desk.”

Resistance training should be two to three times weekly, in addi-

A Trusted Source for Help with Life’s Struggles

If you are struggling with major life changes (marriage, divorce, career change, becoming a parent),

tion to cardiovascular exercise.

6.Prioritize protein

“Eat one gram of protein per pound of desired body weight,” Howell said. “Typically, people don’t eat enough protein.”

7.Eat whole foods

“If you avoid processed foods, you’ll stay at a healthy weight,” Howell said.

8.Watch calories

“Most people don’t realize how much they eat,” Howell said. “One-quarter cup is a 160-calorieserving of pistachios. People have to pay attention. It’s about portions, not never eating cake.”

activity that you’ll do consistently,” Howell said. “It's harder to get people to incorporate resistance training. Anyone can walk or hike, but it’s harder to prioritize 15 to 30 minutes of weightlifting, using bands or doing body weight exercise.”

10. Get professional help

9.Find what works for you

“It’s important to find an

“Working with a professional or a coach that can progress things in a graded fashion is best,” said Bryan Guzski, doctor of physical therapy and strength and conditioning specialist at Motive Physical Therapy in Brighton. “A DIY approach to a new exercise program is great but it can be helpful to have a coach or trainer. Ask around in the community and call your gym about trial memberships. Some may have complimentary consultations with nutritionists or dietitians.”

Biofield Tuning uses the sound produced by tuning forks to restore resonance and improve the flow of energies in your electromagnetic field, which helps alleviate a wide range of health issues.

Sound Therapy Promotes Wellness

By Deborah Jeanne Sergeant

Sound therapy seems odd to those unfamiliar with the concept. However, to people struggling with health issues unaddressed by conventional medicine, it can help calm the central nervous system to promote the body’s own ability to heal.

Sandra Kurzdorfer operates Sunflower Vibration in Rochester. She is trained in sound therapy, vibrational sound and certified in sound bathing, in addition to certified in styles of yoga.

“Everything on earth is vibration, whether a rock, cat, your liver, your skin,” she said. “All our organs hold a different vibration and each human has a different vibration. When you’re out of vibration, you have ‘disease.’ When you help bring them back into vibration through playing, you can get that person’s body to almost mirror that vibration and come back into health.”

The “playing” refers to making specific sounds with bowls meant for sound therapy. Some practitioners use tuning forks for types of vibrational sound therapy. There are also flutes, gongs and other instruments, but they’re not for playing music. Sometimes, the instruments are placed on or near the client’s body in strategic places. The tones they emit cause vibrations that are key to stimulating the body’s response.

The difference between music therapy and sound therapy is that sound therapy is not meant to be musical. It’s more about vibration than sound. Although people can derive some benefit from hearing videos of sound therapy on YouTube, Kurzdorfer said that vibration is more accessible through in-person sessions.

Sound bathing refers to a group of people undertaking sound therapy together instead of individual sessions.

Some people seek sound therapy for anxiety or depression; others have specific health issues that they feel have not been sufficiently addressed through Western medicine.

Raphaela McCormack is a certified qi gong therapist in private practice in Rochester. She uses tuning forks, sometimes touching the body. She said the vibration from the forks “help bring the body into a balanced state.”

“Everything in nature has a pattern,” she added. “We have a specific pattern in the body. When you play those forks near the ear, it brings those patterns into harmony in your body.”

She said that using tuning forks has helped bring relief for people with a variety of health issues.

“It’s not a long-lasting fix, but it helps calm the stress in the system,” McCormack said.

Clients typically have sessions a week apart, and then every six weeks for maintenance once their issue has been addressed. As with Chinese medicine, sound therapy seeks to address the cause of the issue, not the symptoms.

Sound therapy has a few contraindications. Carol Scheg-Morissette, owner of Healthy Alternatives Wellness Center in Rochester, would not use it on people with a broken bone or fracture, for example.

“The vibrations would cause the bone to vibrate and cause extreme pain,” she said.

It’s also not advisable for people with epilepsy.

Scheg-Morissette is a licensed massage therapist, certified in sound healing, certified vibrational sound massage, Reiki master-teacher, integrated energy therapy master instructor, certified aroma therapist, certified herbalist, and cranial sacral therapist.

What Is Pelvic Floor Therapy?

Men and women can experience a variety of issues related to problems in what's called the pelvic floor, the network of muscles and ligaments around the pelvis.

Fortunately, strengthening therapy can get these problems under control.

A urologist from Baylor College of Medicine in Houston explains how this works.

“Like physical therapy is helpful for a knee or shoulder injury, pelvic floor therapy works the muscles in the pelvic floor to rehabilitate those muscles from injury or destruction,” physician Rotimi Nettey, an assistant professor in the department of urology, said in a school news release.

The pelvis is bordered by the hip bone and pubic symphysis — the

joint between your left and right pelvic bones. It supports internal organs, including the intestines, bladder and rectum. In women, it also supports the uterus and vagina; in men, the prostate. This network is important for urination, bowel movements, supporting sexual function and childbirth.

Urinary and fecal incontinence, constipation, pelvic organ prolapse, pain with intercourse and sexual dysfunction are conditions that can be treated with pelvic floor therapy. For women, this can be helpful after childbirth or during pregnancy. Men may seek out therapy after prostate surgery, Nettey said.

Pregnancy is the most common cause of injury to the pelvic floor because the uterus can compress various muscles and nerve groups,

Sound therapy is also not advised for pregnant women, especially during the first 12 weeks, as “water is a great conductor of sound,” Scheg-Morissette said. “A baby is surrounded by water which would intensify the effects of the sound. It would also be contraindicated during pregnancy to attend a sound bath because, again, the sound would be amplified. It would be like taking a baby to a really loud concert.”

The same goes for infants, as their fontanels are still developing. She also advised that sound therapists should keep a minimum distance of 20 centimeters. from any implanted heart pacemaker, stent or shunt.

“Combining specific frequencies together plus intention creates healing,” Scheg-Morissette said. “Playing notes C and G together creates a perfect fifth. You want to have quality bowls. Sometimes the ones coming from China have a higher lead content in them and can create dissonance instead of resonance. Also, when you are playing

them, your intentions play a big part in it. You want to put out positive thoughts and positive energy while practicing sound healing.”

straining them as they are relied upon for more support. Vaginal delivery can bring trauma to the pelvic floor ligaments and muscles, causing lacerations or tears.

Pelvic floor therapists use a variety of techniques. These can include relaxation and "down" training exercises for those with an overactive bladder or a tense, high tone pelvic floor. Myofascial release - a type of gentle massage - can be helpful for patients with pelvic floor pain. Bio-

feedback therapy is another option.

“Pelvic floor therapy helps empower patients because they can do it on their own once they see a therapist who can extend those lessons they learn in therapy,” Nettey said. “It's beneficial and harmless to patients and is pretty noninvasive compared to other therapies offered. Patients who are interested in learning more about pelvic floor therapy should consult their urologist or gynecologist.”

Sandra Kurzdorfer operates Sunflower Vibration in Rochester.

Carol Scheg-Morissette, owner of Healthy Alternatives Wellness Center in Rochester. “Combining specific frequencies together plus intention creates healing,” she says.

OMEN'S HEALTH

Veozah: Non-hormonal Hot Flash Drug is FDA Approved

By Deborah Jeanne Sergeant

As of June 1, the FDA approved the first drug in its class to treat menopausal hot flashes. Veozah (fezolinetant) is an oral medication indicated for moderate to severe hot flashes.

“It’s a quality-of-life issue,” said Michelle Chin, a physician with Rochester Regional Health. “Some women have terrible hot flashes and are up all night. It’s embarrassing. It’s not fun when work colleagues say, ‘Are you OK?’ because your face is flushed. It’s so exciting to launch this drug. Women with hot flashes and night sweats have been suffering quite a bit.”

Although hormone therapy is well-tolerated for some women, others do not want or cannot have it. Hormone therapy has been linked with an increased risk of breast cancer and cardiovascular disease.

Colleague Olivia Higgins, a physician, added that the introduction of Veozah “shows how there is more discussion in the media and among people about the importance of how hot flashes interrupt quality of life. More research is going into how to improve this for women. There are multiple options beyond hormonal

therapy.”

Higgins works at Rochester Regional Health. She likes the opportunity to offer more choices to patients, especially one that is so effective as Veozah.

Chin said that by week one, those taking Veozah experience a 50% reduction of hot flashes and that continues to improve by week 12. The diversity of the trial, both in the ethnicity and BMI of the participants, bodes for a much broader efficacy than trials that include fewer types of women.

“After 12 weeks, the women who’d been on placebo switched to Veozah and they also had the benefit of reducing their symptoms,” Chin said. “The placebo effect is 30% of patients seeing a difference. I like the crossover study.”

Higgins encourages anyone interested in Veozah to discuss their health issues and other medications with a healthcare provider to determine

what is best for them.

Treating hot flashes is “definitely a big part of my practice,” said Carol Peterson, a physician and assistant professor at URMC. “Some people tolerate them nicely, but about 40% of women find them very bothersome.”

She said that Veozah is a different class of medication than previous drugs used to treat hot flashes. It works by interrupting the pathways in the brain related to hot flashes, which is a different mechanism for reducing hot flashes.

“We have tried many other options in the

past,” Peterson said. “Other drugs are marginally helpful. Antidepressants can help, and depression is often a side effect of menopause. This seems to be the most effective with the least side effects. It seems to be very effective for women who don’t want estrogen.”

Veozah is contraindicated for women with liver disease or liver problems. Patients are monitored for liver function.

Sleepiness is another side effect. However, many menopausal women struggle with sleep. Some women experience nausea and gastrointestinal upset.

The medication should be a “tier 2” medication, indicating that most insurance will cover it with a moderate co-pay for patients.

Do what you love. Even if it’s nothing at all.

As one of the most important people on earth, you should have nothing to worry about but choosing today’s activity, outing or dining option. Or just enjoying quiet time in beautifully maintained surroundings with 24-hour security.

St. Ann’s Community at Chapel Oaks has no entrance fee, only a low, monthly service fee for all your amenities. You also have complimentary transportation for appointments and activities, and access to higher levels of care if you ever need it.

OMEN'S HEALTH

Heavy Periods? Check with Your Physician

Extreme bleeding can cause iron deficiency, chronic anemia and fatigue. It can even cause issues with mental health and cognition.

By Deborah Jeanne Sergeant

Women with abnormally heavy and painful menstruation should not ignore the issue.

Most women experience a period that lasts two to seven days and expel two to three tablespoons of blood over that timeframe.

Minimal cramping or managing cramping with over-the-counter medication is normal. However, extremely painful, debilitating cramps are not. The latter can cause women to take sick leave.

“Woman having heavy periods is often normalized and diminished by not only friends and family, but also providers,” said Olivia Higgins, a physician with Rochester Regional Health. “It’s important to address because it can not only impact that individual’s quality of life, ability to go to work, and ability to participate in life, but can also impact health.”

For example, extreme bleeding can cause iron deficiency or chronic anemia. Women may experience chronic fatigue. It can even cause issues with mental health and cognition.

Many women delay seeking help for heavy periods. If it’s minimized, they may think they’re “being wimps” for speaking up and asking

for help from their healthcare providers. Beyond stoicism, they may also fear a diagnosis of cancer or a disease in their reproductive system. The thought of various treatments may prevent them from seeking help. Higgins said that treatment may include medication, surgery or other interventions.

“We have non-hormonal medication, hormonal medication and more,” said Michelle Chin, a physician with Rochester Regional Health.

As to which is appropriate depends upon other health factors and the patient’s preference.

Heavy periods do not often indicate a serious issue. In fact, “most likely, there’s nothing seriously wrong and there’s a treatment that can give them relief,” said Carol Peterson, a physician and assistant professor at URMC.

“It’s important to pay attention to this because most of us don’t have lifestyles that can sustain four to five days of cramps and misery,” she added.

Very heavy periods could also indicate fibroids, endometriosis or cancer. Even these more serious diagnoses can potentially be treated. But the first step is to seek help from a provider.

“Talk with your doctor and figure out what’s going on,” Peterson said. “You can take medication that help decrease the flow. We have lots of ways to treat heavy periods. You may have a form of hemophilia, which is treated in a different way. Some just have very heavy periods but can be treated.”

For very heavy bleeding, tampons and pads may need changing more than is convenient. Washable period underwear can also provide an additional barrier of protection against leaks.

Menstrual cups and disks require less frequent attention and are reusable, saving money and landfill space. Using a cup can also help women know exactly how much they’re bleeding as some cups include measuring marks. This information can be helpful when talking with a healthcare provider.

Women should discuss with their healthcare provider how to address heavy periods and how treatments relate to their other health concerns and any medications.

Drug Shortage Leaves Local Pharmacists Scrambling

Depending upon the drug, many people who take medication must wait three or four days to fill their prescriptions at their local pharmacy. Those who rely on mail order pharmacies may receive their medication mere days before they’re out of drugs instead of weeks in advance.

The American Society for Health-System Pharmacists recently stated there are more than 300 medications experiencing a shortage, representing the highest level since 2014.

Pharmacists like Kaleigh Gregory at Faris Pharmacy in Rochester, have few options.

“We have people calling every week trying to find medication, multiple people,” she said.

If their suppliers do not have it in stock, the pharmacists cannot obtain it readily for their customers.

“It affects every day of our lives,” said Sarah Driscoll, doctor of pharmacy and pharmacy operations supervisor at Oswego Health, near Syracuse.

One example is Stadol, used for labor and delivery patients. Several types of chemotherapy drugs are

By Deborah Jeanne Sergeant

among those difficult to obtain.

Another is Adderall, often used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and narcolepsy. Although Oswego does not typically need Adderall for in patients, it does need it and other scarce medications for outpatients using Oswego’s retail pharmacy.

Overall, in healthcare “a lot of providers are changing for other drugs in the drug class, which causes shortages,” Driscoll said. “Patients need these lifesaving medications so we have to do what we have to to maintain a supply of them at the hospital.”

If there aren’t alternatives, that becomes a difficult issue for patients. Many want to stay on the medication they’re using, but if it’s not available, they may have to accept side effects they don’t want.

“We have some who experience a better effect for some medications for acid reflux,” Driscoll said. “They feel like one brand works better and we can’t get it in for them.”

Another strategy is talking with different suppliers to find medication. However, prices vary among suppliers. This has caused increased

spending for the hospital and pharmacy. Patients with insurance should still see the same copays.

Eventually, this strategy can lead to higher premiums as insurance companies recoup their costs.

“In our world, retail pharmacies try to get whatever’s the cheapest product,” Driscoll said. “We want to be conscious of that. It negatively affects the older population that takes ‘that little white pill,’ but next filling it might be yellow or squareshaped. These shortages really affect patients.”

Lack of raw materials and workforce issues may be part of the reason drug makers aren’t supplying enough.

Driscoll said that some drug makers cease production of what they deem less popular medication. Or if a drug is approved for multiple uses, it becomes scarce as physicians prescribe it at higher rates than ever and manufacturers don’t keep up with demand.

“I know the government has been trying to help with certain committees,” Driscoll said. “The lack of expertise to dive deep into this will have to be discussed further with the

FDA and how they cannot let this happen again. I’m really concerned about these chemotherapy drugs. I don’t want people who need this lifesaving treatment but cannot get this. The government needs to subsidize these companies to hire more workers and get more drugs out to the patients.”

Cancer Centers Say Drug Shortages Are Impacting Patient Care

A new survey of cancer centers find that chemotherapy shortages are affecting most of them, prompting last-minute changes in treatment for numerous types of cancer.

About 93% of the centers surveyed said they were experiencing shortages of the drug carboplatin, while 70% were short on cisplatin. Together, these platinum chemotherapies can treat and even cure cancers, including lung, breast, prostate and many leukemias and lymphomas.

“This is an unacceptable situation. We are hearing from oncologists and pharmacists across the country who have to scramble to find appropriate alternatives for treating their patients with cancer right now,” physician Robert Carlson, chief executive officer at National Comprehensive Cancer Network, said in a news release on the widespread shortages.

“We were relieved by survey results that show patients are still able to get lifesaving care, but it comes at a burden to our overtaxed medical facilities. We need to work together to improve the current situation and prevent it from happening again in the future,” Carlson added.

The whole oncology community needs to work together on solutions, NCCN said, as it also called on the federal government, pharmaceutical industry, cancer treatment providers and insurance companies to do their part.

“The causes and solutions to the recurrent anti-cancer drug shortages that deprive oncology patients of optimal therapy are multiple and fixable. Effective solutions require a whole of oncology effort if they are to be successful,” the statement read.

In the survey, NCCN polled 27 NCCN member institutions across the United States from May 23 to 31.

By Jim Miller

Can I Collect Social Security from My Ex-Spouse?

Dear Savvy Senior,

Is it possible to collect Social Security benefits from my ex-spouse? We were married for 12 years but have been divorced for almost 20 years now.

Never Remarried

Dear Never,

Yes, depending on your specific circumstances, you may very well be eligible for divorced spouses Social Security benefits. Here’s what you should know.

Who’s Eligible?

A divorced spouse can collect a Social Security retirement benefit on the earnings record of their ex-husband (or ex-wife) if you are at least age 62, were married for at least 10 years, are unmarried, and are not eligible for a higher benefit based on your own earnings record.

In order to collect, your former spouse must also be at least 62 and eligible for Social Security benefits. But he doesn’t have to be receiving them in order for you to collect divorced spouse’s benefits, as long as you’ve been divorced for at least two years.

Even if your ex is remarried, it won’t affect your right to divorcee benefits, nor will it affect your ex’s retirement benefits or his current spouse’s benefits.

Benefit Amount

A divorced spouse can receive up to 50% of their ex’s full Social Security benefit, or less if they take benefits before their full retirement age, which is 66 for people born in 1945-1954 but is gradually increased to age 67 for people born in 1960 or later. To find out your full retirement age and see how much your benefits will be reduced by taking them early see SSA.gov/benefits/retirement/ planner/agereduction.html.

Keep in mind though, that if you qualify for benefits based on your own work history, you’ll receive the larger of the two benefits. You cannot receive benefits on both your record, and your ex’s work record too.

To find out how much your retirement benefits will be, see your Social Security statement at SSA.gov/ myaccount. And to get an estimate of your ex’s benefits, call Social Security at 800-772-1213. You’ll need to show your marriage certificate and divorce decree to prove your marriage lasted at least 10 years along with his Social Security number to get it.

Other Factors to Know

You also need to be aware that working can affect your divorced spouse’s benefits. If you start taking benefits while working, and are under full retirement age, your benefits will be reduced $1 for every $2 you earn above the annual limit, which is $21,240 in 2023. In the year you reach full retirement age, however, the annual limit increases to $56,520 and the reduction lowers to $1 for every $3 above that limit. See SSA. gov/pubs/EN-05-10069.pdf for more details.

Another factor that can reduce your divorced spouse’s benefits is receiving a pension from an employer that did not withhold Social Security taxes (like a government). This is a rule know as Government Pension Offset (see SSA.gov/benefits/retirement/planner/gpo-calc.html) which can reduce your benefits by twothirds of the amount of your pension.

Divorced Survivor’s Benefits

You also need to know that when your ex-spouse dies (and if you were married for 10 or more years), you become eligible for divorced survivor benefits, which is worth up to 100% of what your ex-spouse was due.

Survivor benefits are available to divorced spouses as early as age 60 (50 if you’re disabled). But if you remarry before 60, you become ineligible unless the marriage ends. Remarrying after age 60 will not affect your eligibility.

Also note that if you are receiving divorced spouses benefits when your ex-spouse dies, you will automatically be switched over to the higher paying survivor benefit.

For more information visit SSA. gov/benefits/retirement/planner/ applying7.html and click on “Benefits for Your Divorced Spouse.”

By Rebecca Conklin, D.O.

Ask

Simple Exercises to Help Ease Arthritis Pain

Ask anyone with a green thumb and they'll tell you that tending a garden is good for the soul. But did you know it's also good for the body, specifically joints and muscles that can be affected by osteoarthritis?

Gardening is a great example of the kind of daily exercise that can keep arthritis at bay as we age. Digging in the dirt gets the blood flowing, which can relieve pain and soreness in your hands and wrists. If you're an older adult, consider using an elevated flower bed and long-handled tools to reduce stooping. A gardening stool or mat will also make you comfortable as you work. Just be careful: don't lift too much, take precautions against sunburn and listen to your body when it needs a rest.

Like gardening, there other simple ways to alleviate arthritis pain and slow its progression. We'll look at three of these in a moment, but first some background.

Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis we see in the older adults we treat at Pillar Medical Associates. It's caused by the wearing down of cartilage between the bones of our joints, causing the bones to rub together. This can result in stiffness of the joints, reduced range of motion, and pain. It primarily affects the knees, hips and shoulders but can occur anywhere there's wear and tear on our joints, including hands and ankles.

As we age, years of using our joints in work and daily activities can cause the cartilage to break down. This usually becomes noticeable when we reach our 50s or 60s and gets worse the older we get.

There's a wide range in the severity of osteoarthritis. Severe cases may require steroidal injections for pain relief or even joint replacement. However, if the discomfort is relatively mild or just becoming noticeable, simple exercises are the best non-medical treatment.

• Range and flexibility exercises. It's easy to believe that exercising will aggravate your joint pain, but actual-

ly the benefits far outweigh the risks; a lack of exercise can make your joints even more painful and stiff. Try gentle stretching that puts your joints through the full range of motion (such as raising your arms over your head or rolling your shoulders forward and backward). This supports the muscles around the joints and helps preserve mobility.

• Aerobic and strength exercises. Walking is one of the best things you can do for your health. When it comes to osteoarthritis, it not only helps reduce pain, stiffness, and inflammation, it also helps with weight loss which decreases the pressure on your joints. Strength training with light weights and exercises such as squats support specific muscle groups.

• Aquatic exercises. These provide a good workout in a low-impact setting, perfect for older adults—just ask the residents of St. Ann's Community at Chapel Oaks who use the indoor pool for aquafit and water aerobics! These exercises provide the same benefits as regular aerobics but with less pressure on the joints. The resistance experienced by exercising in a pool strengthens muscles and can improve balance and mobility.

As a complement to daily exercise, consider an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory (Tylenol) or topical ointments or creams (Aspercream, Voltaren) for pain relief. As always, ask your healthcare provider for the treatment that's right for you.

And by all means, get out there and garden!

Rebecca Conklin is a physician with Pillar Medical Associates, a primary care practice focusing on the needs of older adults. She is a doctor of osteopathic medicine (D.O.) and can be reached at 585-6976416 or rconklin@ mystanns.com.

The

Social Security Office

From the Social Security District Office

Celebrate Your Independence With Social Security

Every July, we take pride in celebrating our nation’s independence. For nearly 90 years, our programs have helped provide financial independence to millions of hardworking people. We have useful online tools like the Social Security Statement (statement) and our benefits estimator tool that help people not yet receiving benefits. The statement shows the benefits that you and your family may be entitled to includes personalized fact sheets tailored to your age and earnings situation. The benefits estimator tool allows you to get estimates based on different ages you want to begin receiving benefits. These tools can help you plan for financial independence in retirement.

Don’t receive benefits? You can get the most out of your online experience if you have a personal My Social Security account. You can:

• Get your statement instantly.

• Request a replacement Social Security card (in nearly every state and the District of Columbia).

• Find out if you qualify for benefits.

• Appeal a decision we made on

Q&A

Q.: Will my retirement benefits increase if I wait and retire after my full retirement age?

A: Yes. You can increase your Social Security retirement benefit in two ways:

• You can increase your retirement benefit by a certain percentage if you delay receiving retirement benefits. We will add these increases automatically from the time you reach full retirement age until you start receiving benefits or reach age 70.

• If you work, each additional year you work adds another year of earnings to your Social Security record. Higher lifetime earnings may result in higher benefits when you do retire.

For more information, visit www. ssa.gov/pubs to read, print, or listen to our publication, “When to Start Receiving Retirement Benefits.” You also can use our “Retirement Estimator” at www.ssa.gov/estimator to determine your estimated future benefits.

Q.: Will my Social Security disability benefit increase if my condition gets worse or I develop additional health problems?

A: No. We do not base your Social Security benefit amount on the severity of your disability. The amount you are paid is based on

your claim.

Already receiving benefits? If so, you can use your personal my Social Security account to:

• Request a replacement Social Security card (in nearly every state and the District of Columbia).

• Get an instant benefit verification letter for Social Security, Medicare, and Supplemental Security Income (SSI).

• Start or change your direct deposit (Social Security beneficiaries only).

• Check your information and benefit amount.

• Change your address (Social Security beneficiaries only).

• Request a replacement Medicare card.

• Get a replacement SSA-1099 or SSA-1042S instantly for tax season.

• Report your wages if you work and receive disability benefits or SSI. You can create your personal My Social Security account at www.ssa. gov/myaccount.

With so many services and helpful information available online, we are here for you when it’s convenient for you. Be sure to tell friends and family about all they can do at www.ssa.gov.

your average lifetime earnings before your disability began. If you go back to work after getting disability benefits, you may be able to get a higher benefit based on those earnings. In addition, we have incentives that allow you to work temporarily without losing your disability benefits. For more information about disability benefits, read our publications “Disability Benefits and Working While Disabled — How We Can Help.” Both are available online at www.ssa. gov/pubs.

Q.: My grandfather, who is receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI), will be coming to live with me. Does he have to report the move to Social Security?

A: Yes. An SSI beneficiary must report any change in living arrangements before the 10th day of the following month. If you do not report the change, your grandfather could receive an incorrect payment and have to pay it back, or he may not receive all the money that he is due. Failure to report a change to us could result in the deduction of a penalty from his SSI benefits. Your grandfather also needs to report the new address to us to receive mail from us. You can report the change by mail or in person at any Social Security office or call us toll-free at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778). You can get more information by reading “Understanding SSI” at www.ssa.gov/ ssi.

Health News

Thompson has new director of infection prevention

Stacey Gibbs of Canandaigua

was recently named UR Medicine

Thompson Health’s director of infection prevention.

completed his internship and residency at the University of Rochester School of Medicine in internal medicine as well as fellowships in clinical hematology and academic internal medicine. He is board-certified in internal medicine and hematology. He has been serving patients since 1982.

“Patients need time to tell their story to their doctor—in their own words, sharing their personal journey, their unique psychosocial situation, medical concerns, and goals, he says. “This allows us to collaborate in the development of a personalized plan for prevention, wellness, and a productive, happy life.”

Stacey Gibbs

Gibbs, who received her Bachelor of Science degree in nursing from the University of Pittsburgh, started her nursing career at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Shadyside Hospital. Later serving as a nurse manager at a skilled nursing facility in Kane, Pennsylvania, she first joined Thompson in 2017 as a nurse manager in its skilled nursing facility, the M.M. Ewing Continuing Care Center.

In 2019, Gibbs became the coordinator of associate development and infection prevention for the continuing care center, serving in this capacity throughout the pandemic while creating learning opportunities for the nursing staff. She is a member of the Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology and is certified in infection prevention in long-term care by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Gibbs is a two-time recipient of Thompson’s Shining Star Award, which is based on nominations from peers and goes to the top 2% of the health system’s workforce.

“Stacey has proven herself as a leader here at Thompson. This professional growth not only benefits her but Thompson for the future. We are all looking forward to her leadership with infection prevention,” said Executive Vice President and COO Kurt Koczent.

Personal Medicine of Rochester welcomes physician

Personal Medicine of Rochester

Lifetime Benefit Solutions recognized as ‘Best in Class’

For the third year in a row, Life

time Benefit Solutions (LBS) has been inducted into the Circle of Excellence by WEX, the global commerce platform. Syracuse-based LBS, with offices in Rochester and Buffalo, is an industry leader in designing, developing, and deploying reimbursement accounts, COBRA, retirement accounts and other employee wellness-related plans that promote employee health while safeguarding a company’s financial health.

Trish Mooney

“This honor places LBS among the top echelon of third-party administrators,” says LBS President Trish Mooney. “We are so proud of our team!”

Lifetime Benefit Solutions offers a full suite of ancillary benefits and specialty programs to help round out employer's traditional benefits. Each is built with scalability and flexibility in mind, providing added security to help both businesses and employees grow.

“The achievements and accomplishments of our Circle of Excellence members inspire us all to reach higher and do more,” says Robert Deshaies, chief operating officer of the Americas, WEX. “These organizations repeatedly rise to challenges and serve as catalysts for innovation. We are honored and humbled to celebrate their successes.”

To learn more about LBS, visit www.LifetimeBenefitSolutions.com.

James Budd

has announced that physician James Budd will join the practice Aug. 1 and is currently accepting new patient inquiries . Personal Medicine of Rochester’s goal is to provide person-centered physician care to members of the greater Rochester community, with a focus on wellness and prevention. The new personalized primary care practice will offer an annual membership with convenient access to same-day or next-day appointments with a physician, as well as comprehensive personal wellness plans customized to each patient’s individual needs.

Budd received his medical degree from University of Chicago. He

FLIPA announces new name, new executive director

Finger Lakes Independent Provider Association has outgrown its name with the addition of new members outside of the Finger Lakes region and will now be named Forward Leading Independent Provider Association (FLIPA).

The new name embodies FLIPA’s mission more than ever, according to the organization. “It is all about the value FLIPA brings to members

7th Generation Medical Oncology Acupuncture for Cancer Care, Cancer Survivor Care, and Cancer Prevention

Part of Comprehensive Cancer Care

Build Anti-cancer Immunity, Improve Cancer Immune Surveillance Ability; Relieve Cancer Complications and Cancer Treatment Induced Side Effects; Drug-Free Care without Drug Interactions with Conventional Cancer Treatment; Personalized Cancer Supportive Care, Integrative Cancer Care.

*Do Not Stop Your Conventional Western Medicine Cancer Care during the Acupuncture Care, since Medical Oncology Acupuncture Is Only Part of Comprehensive Cancer Care.

Experienced in both Western Medicine & Traditional Chinese Medicine Experienced in both Academic & Private Practice Experienced in both Basic Science & Clinical Science Experienced in Cancer Research at Major Medical

every day. Providing opportunities to collaborate, build relationships and share best practices to support communities served across Upstate New York,” according to a press release.

FLIPA’s newest members joining in 2022 and 2023 include: Catholic Charities Family and Community Services (Monroe and Yates County), Community Health Center of the North Country (Franklin and St. Lawrence County), ConnextCare (Oswego County), East Hill Medical Center (Cayuga County) and Westchester Community Health Center (Westchester County), among others.

FLIPA connects community health centers, behavioral health organizations, and community-based organizations to develop innovative solutions to drive successful outcomes for the individuals they serve.

Patricia (Patty) McMahon has been named the organization’s new executive director as of May 31. She succeeds Daniel Day, who retired on May 30.

McMahon previously held the role of FLIPA’s director of operations where she was responsible for onboarding nine new members and setting up FLIPA’s infrastructure and established a representative governance model. Prior to her time with FLIPA, she consulted with organizations across Central New York for strategic planning, program implementation and program evaluation.

“I am excited to lead FLIPA because it is such an innovative organization. Our staff and members are truly dedicated to partnering to develop solutions to drive better health outcomes,” said McMahon.

MCMS announces Edward Mott Moore recipients

The Monroe County Medical Society recently recognized two professionals with its 2023 Edward Mott Moore Physician and Layperson Awards. This award recognizes individuals whose dedication to the community goes above and beyond the usual call of duty.

• 2023 Edward Mott Moore Physician Award — Physicians Roger Oskvig, University of Rochester

Oskvig grew up on an Iowa farm. He received his undergraduate and medical degrees from the University of Iowa. He did his categorical internal medicine residency at University of Rochester from 19741977. He joined the United States Air Force in 1977 and remained on active duty through 1981. He has worked as a private practitioner, in additional education, as program director and department chairman at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center prior to recruitment to URMC in 1989. Currently, he is a clinical professor of medicine, a chief medical adviser for Second Opinion with Joan Lunden for the past 22 years, an extended member of New York State Board of Medicine, of which he served as chairman. Professional interests include internal medicine, geriatrics, licensing, and credentialing.

• 2023 Edward Mott Moore Layperson Award — Mary Tantillo, Ph.D., University of Rochester

Mary Tantillo, Ph.D., is a professor of clinical nursing at the University of Rochester School of Nursing and a clinical professor in the department of psychiatry at the University of Rochester School of Medicine and Dentistry. She is a fellow and previous board member of the Academy for Eating Disorders (AED). She served as chairwoman for the AED Credentialing Task Force and as co-chairwoman for the AED Patient–Carer Committee and was awarded the Meehan-Hartley Award for Public Service and Advocacy by the AED in 2010. Since 2005, Tantillo has been the director of the Western New York Comprehensive Care Center for Eating Disorders (WNYCCCED), one of three NYS Office of Mental Health-funded CCCED’s. As part of this work, she and the WNYCCCED team initiated Project ECHO Eating Disorders in January 2017 and School-Based Project ECHO Eating Disorders in 2018. Additionally, in 2010 Tantillo founded The Healing Connection (THC), a free-standing, 501 (c) 3, nonprofit NYS Office of Mental Health-licensed eating disorders facility for adults and adolescents. Over the past 10 years she partnered with patients and families to develop a new and innovative relationally and motivationally-informed multifamily therapy group approach to treating anorexia nervosa in young adults called “Reconnecting for Recovery.” She co-authored a treatment manual for this multifamily approach with Jennifer McGraw and Daniel Le Grange that was released by Routledge in 2021.

Patricia McMahon