Oct nov 2014 senior focus by Senior Services of Snohomish County

October/November 2014 Vol. 41 No. 1 Published by

Senior Services of Snohomish County

Donate  Shop  Volunteer

Opportunity Shoppe rocks with possibilities By Jim Steinruck, CEO

Senior Services of Snohomish County

Senior Spotlight

Orin Fjeran helps seniors get the facts straight Page 4

Town hall meeting puts spotlight on Alzheimer’s Page 6

The time is now…

Make smart Medicare choices for 2015

Page 10

Savvy Senior

What to consider when choosing walk-in bathtub

Page 16

From the Heart

Daughter’s connection with a voice from the past Page 26

Columns… BooNook......................................... 30 Elder Info......................................... 11 GetAways (Sr. Travel)..................... 14 Mr. Modem...................................... 32 Meal Times (Nutrition News)....... 24 Perspective on the Past................ 22 Senior Spotlight............................... 4 Volunteer Connections................. 28 Where Are They Now?................... 31

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August, October and December) as a community service by Senior Services of Snohomish County. We are committed to educating and entertaining readers with information that reflects the diverse interests and needs of the senior community.

non ProFiT orG The Senior Focus is a publication of uS PoSTAGe Senior ServiceS oF SnohomiSh counTy PAiD 11627 Airport rd., Suite B PuBLiShinG The Senior Focus is published bi-monthly (February,SounD April,98204 June, everett WA 98204-8714

Senior Services of Snohomish County

“Wow – I can’t believe this a thrift store,” seems to be a common sentiment among the customers who have stopped by the store since it opened last month. The Opportunity Shoppe – a new Estate & Thrift Store – is packed with great items including furniture, clothing, housewares and more. Opportunity Shoppe? The name comes from Great Britain where people use the word “opportunity” rather than “thrift.” It makes sense when you think about it – because thrift stores provide a world of opportunities on every rack and shelf! Senior Services is always looking at new and innovative ways to increase revenue to meet the needs of our skyrocketing senior population as well as people living with disabilities. We found that other nonprofit organizations, both locally and nationally, have had great success in improving their bottom line by operating a thrift store. We also wanted to find a new opportunity for volunteer participation. We know that volunteers have a great desire to invest their time in organizations they believe

in and they want to have an experience they can feel good about. The Opportunity Shoppe has already recruited a wonderful core of volunteers who love what they do. Sue Stanford is one of those volunteers who was there before the store even opened. “I can’t believe how quickly the day goes by. I really enjoy the work, the store atmosphere, and the satisfaction in knowing that I am supporting Senior Services.” With stores like The Darlene Burgess, a volunteer at the new Opportunity Opportunity Shoppe – Shoppe, organizes the earring display. everyone wins. Value conscious customers get great are Monday through Saturday, 10 items at affordable prices. Do- a.m. to 5 p.m. Donations are acnors have a place to donate their cepted during store hours. gently-used items and receive a Please stop by and meet the tax deduction. With an increasing store manager Nancy Van Overawareness of reducing waste, the beke, store associate Jeanne Gerstore offers the ultimate in recy- oux, and a great group of voluncling and the environment wins. teers. And, Senior Services receives that We invite you to donate, shop very important support that goes and volunteer. For information back into programs for older adults call Van Overbeke, 425-740-3797. and people with disabilities. To volunteer please contact Chris The store is located at 6915 Ev- tina Harrison, 425-265-2294 or ergreen Way in Everett. Hours charrison@sssc.org.

Project Care Track finds wanderers fast By Teri Baker Jan was in a panic. Her husband, Joe, who has early stage Alzheimer’s disease, had gone to the curb to get the mail when the phone rang. Jan dashed to the kitchen to answer it and within a minute was back at the window to keep an eye on Joe. He wasn’t there. He wasn’t in the back yard or at the neighbor’s. She called his name. No reply. She ran to the corner, but didn’t see him. She hurried to the other end of the block. No Joe. She drove around for an hour before she called 911. The forecast called for rain and cooler temperatures. He wasn’t wearing a coat. Sick with worry, all she could do was hope somebody would find him. Across town, Bill’s elderly mother, Fran, had wandered off. Again. He had left her in the living room watching TV while he went upstairs to shower. Think-

ing the school bus was coming for her any minute, she had put on her coat, called a cheery “Bye, Mom” and headed out the door. Bill came downstairs and didn’t see her. After a quick look around, he immediately dialed 911. Twenty minutes later, the police drove up with Fran, who thanked them prettily for bringing her home from school. The difference in these two scenarios was Fran was signed up with Project Care Track and wore a waterproof electronic bracelet that emits a radio signal unique to that bracelet. As soon as Bill called 911, a small, specialized team began tracking the signal. Designed to provide a safety net for the community’s most vulnerable citizens, Project Care Track

is part of Snohomish County Volunteer Search and Rescue under direction of the county Sheriff’s Office. Ray Baron Sr., who oversees Project Care Track, says that as of August 1st, the program had rescued 64 people who had wandered off into danger this year. Around 60 percent of people with Alzheimer’s and other dementias wander and become lost, some of them repeatedly. Survival chances of an elderly Alzheimer’s patient left outside for more than 24 hours drops to 50 percent due to the risk of exposure and injury. Cognitive impairment puts wanderers at great risk. Frustrated and confused because they don’t know where they are, victims can become combative if someone asks them who they are and if they’re all right. They can also be vulnerable to fraud and abuse. Victims may not be willing or able to communicate when a CONTINUED ON PAGE 3

October/November, 2014  Senior Focus

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givers, service providers and other interested persons) with news and information that reflects the diverse interests and needs of the senior community. Signed articles are the opinion of the Published by Senior Services of Snohomish County writer and not necessarily the opinion of Senior Services or the Senior Focus. 11627 Airport Rd., Suite B Everett WA 98204-8714 Distribution: 20,000 papers are mailed to households and senior-friendly businesses; Editor 3,500 papers are distributed at drop-off Sharon Ostant  425.290.1277 locations including senior centers, retireAdvertising Account Manager ment communities, libraries, etc. Dale Bohm  425.263.1868 Advertising: The existence of advertising Published bi-monthly with a readership of in this publication is not meant as an en38,000+, the Senior Focus educates and dorsement of the product, service or indientertains readers (seniors, family care- vidual by anyone except the advertiser.

Senior advocates to host legislative candidate forum Senior advocates and organizations* will host a legislative candidate forum on Tuesday, October 7, 3:30-5 p.m. The forum, to be held at the Carl Gipson Senior Center, 3025 Lombard Ave., Everett will be dedicated to aging policy issues and Washington’s readiness to meet the needs of the growing numbers of seniors in our state. The forum will include a brief presentation from seniors, family members, and consumer advocates, followed by a moderated discussion with legislative candidates and audience question and answer. Washington is facing a massive shift in the senior demographic that will affect infrastructure at all levels. Since 2011, 10,000 men and women across the nation turn age 65 every day. In 2009, persons 65+ represented 11.7 percent of Washington state’s population; this is expected to increase to 19.8 percent by

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2030. The 85+ group is expected to double by 2030. Years of declining revenue at the state level have forced deep cuts in Medicaid long-term services, including reductions to homecare, information and assistance, and senior support programs at the same time the need for these services is increasing. The aging of the baby boom also puts increased pressure on caregivers, both paid and unpaid. It is estimated that our state will need an additional 440,000 paid homecare workers between now and 2030 to meet the rising need for long-term services and supports. Services for caregivers will also need to expand to help families keep their loved ones at home. Current programs serve only about one percent of the estimated family caregivers in our state. This event is free to the public. Doors open at 3 p.m. Seating is limited. Please RSVP in advance to Joyce at 425-388-7377. *Organizations include Snohomish County Long Term Care and Aging and its Council on Aging, AARP Washington, the ElderCare Alliance, the Washington Association of Area Agencies on Aging and the Washington State Senior Citizens’ Lobby.

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Senior Focus  October/November, 2014

Volunteer Fred Mack, Project Care Track Coordinator with the South Precinct, talks about the importance of wearing the tracking bracelet.

CARE TRACK CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

searcher calls their names. This makes the search effort more time consuming and less likely to have a positive outcome. That’s one of the reasons Project Care Track uses traceable bracelets. A receiver tuned in to the person’s bracelet beeps louder

as it gets closer to its location, Searches that used to require dozens of search and rescue workers and several hours, or even days, can be reduced to under an hour by agencies using Project Care Track. Consequently, fatalities have been reduced by 90 percent. “Call as soon as you know they’re missing,” Baron urges. “If they’re gone more than five minutes, call 911 and let them know the person is in Project Care Track. It usually takes only 15 or 20 minutes after dispatch to find them.” Wanderers can roam near and far before someone notices they’re missing. “A gentleman from Everett took off,” Baron recalls. “We found him lost on the railroad tracks in Edmonds. Another time a woman who was autistic was found far from home in a puddle between buildings in Marysville. For some reason they always head for the bushes.” Then there was the tragic death this summer of Ethel O’Neil, 89, who was in the early stages of dementia. The Everett woman was missing for 28 days before her body was found in her car in a patch of blackberry bushes off a

private road in Lake Stevens. Baron says sadly, “If she had worn a tracking bracelet, we would have found her right away.” Traceable bracelets are the best way to go, says Baron, who has a tracker in his car and is on call 24-hours-a-day. The bracelets can only be removed by cutting them off. Project Care Track volunteers take care of attaching the oneounce bracelet and changing the batteries. “Don’t rely on GPS,” Baron says. “They often can’t get a signal. Home tracking systems like the ones with an alarm around the neck don’t track once

Coping with an ongoing health condition such as asthma, diabetes, heart disease, chronic pain, arthritis or hypertension? You can take the steps toward a better life by signing up for a Living Well with Chronic Conditions workshop offered by Senior Services. For information, please call Jamie Hunter-Mitchell at 425-265-2283.

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you leave home.” To learn more about getting a traceable bracelet for someone prone to wandering, contact Project Care Track’s information line, 425-388-3825, or the volunteer director at 425-388-3082. Donations to supply bracelets for those who can’t afford the monthly $15 fee are always welcome. Call the information line to find out how you or your organization can become involved in the project’s one-on-one sponsorship program. Donations are tax deductible and can be sent to: Project Care Track, 5506 Old Machias Road, Snohomish, WA 98290.

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“Senior citizens are a very important part of our community. Whether you are part of our Greatest Generation, the Silent Generation, or the Baby Boomers, each and every one of you did your part to make the United States the best country in the world. Thank you! “People in Generation X, such as myself, owe a great deal of gratitude to you for all the sacriﬁces you have made.”

We Must:  Preserve Social Security and Medicare for all our seniors who have paid into the system  Hold the VA accountable for timeliness of treatment  Implement comprehensive tax reform, including elimination of the Estate Tax  Deliver harsh penalties against telemarketers and immoral individuals who prey on seniors with scams and commit fraud  Support further funding for research into Alzheimer’s disease  Decriminalize the purchase of safe, inexpensive reimportation of prescription drugs by supporting bipartisan legislation like the “Safe and Affordable Drugs from Canada Act”

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October/November, 2014  Senior Focus

His knowledge, kindness help seniors get the facts straight Senior Spotlight Someone We’d Like You to Meet…

By Teri Baker Orin Fjeran of Everett likes to use his 88 years of life experience to help his community, especially seniors, “get the facts straight.” His background in teaching and school administration, combined with patience and humor make him ideal for explaining the ins and outs of Medicare and Medicare supplemental insurance. “When I was approaching the Medicare stage,” Orin says, “I consulted a SHIBA (Statewide Health Insurance Benefits Advisors) volunteer to get all the facts straight.” That led him to become a SHIBA volunteer himself. He was also a volunteer ombudsman and a peer counselor for a couple of years. All three jobs require thoughtfulness and compassion, which Orin has in abundance. Those who know him often say, “He’s the kindest person I know.” Still a valued member of SHIBA, he trains and mentors new volunteers as they undergo their 40 hours of training and then su-

pervises them for up to six months before letting them go it alone. While they work all year round, October through December is always the busiest time for Orin and SHIBA because that’s the open enrollment period for Medicare. During open enrollment, Orin and other volunteers not only field questions that come in to the office at Senior Services, but also go to various locations throughout the county several days a week. That, and the weather, means Orin has to put his beloved 2006 Mustang convertible away for the winter. He bought the car eight years ago when he totaled his motorcycle after putting 165,000 miles on it. Between the car and the bike, Orin has been to the Yukon, Alaska, Mexico and all the states west of Mississippi. This summer he and a friend added another 3,000 miles during a 10-day trip to Utah and Arizona. The Mustang isn’t his biggest pride and joy. That honor goes to his wife and their progeny which includes four children, eight grandchildren and eight greatgrandchildren. “I’ve got a wonderful, close family,” he says gratefully. “We love to get together.” This year’s reunion involved

It’s time for new leadership and a fresh perspective on the Everett City Council. As the Executive Director of the Schack Art Center, Judy Tuohy has shown she can bring people together to get results. As a councilperson, Judy’s priorities will be: Public safety: Keeping our neighborhoods, schools, businesses and work places safe by providing the right resources to keep them safe. Fiscal responsibility and careful management of our resources: Sound business practices are essential to ensure efficient delivery of services and management of our resources. Representing the citizens: Judy will be accessible and will listen to you. Addressing what YOU care about most. About Judy Judy was born and raised in Everett, growing up in the Seahurst and Claremont neighborhoods. She has led the Schack Art Center, formerly the Arts Council of Snohomish County, for over 19 years. Under Judy’s leadership, the organization has quintupled its annual operating budget, expanded art education and artist support programs and successfully raised over $6 million to build the new center. Paid for by the Committee to Elect Judy Tuohy for Everett City Council 7 PO Box 12401 Everett, WA 98206 - vote4judy.com

Orin Fjeran has many things he is proud of … his family, his beloved 2006 Mustang convertible and the tye-dyed shirt he created while on vacation this past summer with his wife Shirley, children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

renting a house in Oregon where 24 family members gathered for what Orin calls the best week of the year. For the occasion, each family member tye-dyed a shirt at his granddaughter’s request. Family has always meant a great deal to Orin. Born in North Dakota, he cherished his parents and younger sister, sought and

respected his father’s advice and spent his summers working on his aunt and uncle’s farm. From his family he learned an attitude of gratitude and compassion. And, he says, “We learned to have a good work ethic because we were all expected to work.” When his father went to work CONTINUED ON PAGE 5

Senior Focus  October/November, 2014

ORIN CONTINUED FROM PAGE 4

at Puget Sound Naval Station in 1942, Orin stayed in Powers Lake, a small town in North Dakota, until he graduated from high school. In 1944 he joined the Navy and spent the next two years on a minesweeper in the Pacific. After the war, not sure what to do next, he joined his father in Poulsbo and asked his advice. “He said I should go to college on the GI Bill,” Orin says. “College was the last thing I wanted to do, but I decided to go to Western (Washington University) for a year to satisfy my dad.” He studied education, but didn’t really apply himself as reflected by his 1.7 grade point average. Then he met a sweet charmer named Shirley. “It was November 16th and my two friends and I had dates for the prom,” he recounts. “All three of us were stood up so we went to the Grange hall for a midnight supper and maybe some dancing. We got there at 12:28 and saw three girls sitting by the stage. I made a beeline for the prettiest one there, and after the dance I got her phone number.” He looks at Shirley, grins and adds playfully, “I suppose she didn’t have anything else to do.” The two were married just before he began his sophomore year. “Shirley is the best thing that ever

happened in my life,” Orin says. “She has always been my inspiration and my help.” Orin credits Shirley with inspiring him to do better in school. He majored in education and math and took enough music courses to equal a third major. Music teachers must know how to play basic tunes on every instrument in the orchestra and band so Orin borrowed one instrument at a time until he met that requirement. By the time he graduated, his overall GPA was 3.4. The Fjerans had their first child during his junior year and another while he was a senior. Shirley worked in a bakery to augment the $90 a month Orin got from the GI Bill. He got his bachelor’s degree in 1955 and by summer’s end had his first teaching job. “I was so excited!” he recalls. “I feel so fortunate. The principal in the school where my dad was a custodian knew the superintendent of schools in Glenwood and told him about me. I got an interview. They wanted me to start a band. And they were willing to pay $3,100 a year! I told my music professor at Western, and he tried to discourage me, but there was no doubt in my mind I could do it.” Orin, who had played coronet since sixth grade, was soon teaching math to 90 students in fourth through 12th grade. Of the 60 in the band program, 37 were in his junior high/high school performing band. The next year Orin

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raised $2,700 for uniforms and entered the band in open competitions, where it did exceptionally well. “I loved it there,” he says, “but I knew that I needed a bigger school district to get a job as a full time music teacher.” He wound up at South Kitsap where he alternately taught third grade, band and sixth grade, then in Friday Harbor where he began working toward his high school principal and superintendent’s credentials. When his career took him back to Glenwood as superintendent for a year, he found he really enjoyed the organizational and managerial side of education. He went on to become administrative assistant in Richland, then business manager at Franklin Pierce School District in Tacoma, where, he says, “Things were such a mess that there was only one way to go, and that was up!” In the meantime, he earned his master’s degree from the University of Washington. Looking to the future, he talked with his father, who encouraged him to plan for a doctorate. Orin went to the University of Oregon that summer of 1967, took a leave of absence for the school year and spent the next

summer finishing up his PhD. He lived in the graduate student dorm and came home as often as he could. He still praises Shirley for staying at home in Washington with the children and working two jobs while he earned his doctorate. Orin spent the next four years as business superintendent for the Bremerton School District, then in 1974 became assistant superintendent for business at Everett School District. He says, “I love the Everett community and its attitude about education.” Orin retired from education in 1982 and opened his own consulting business. In 1984 then Everett mayor Bill Moore asked him to be the homeporting coordinator. “Two years later,” he says, “I went back to consulting until fully retiring in 2002.” Uh oh! Anyone who knows Orin could say that “fully retired” thing is one fact he doesn’t quite have straight. He must mean retiring in the sense of working for money. His efforts for SHIBA still require a lot of work. The difference is that he’s paid in smiles by the multitude of seniors he has helped get the facts straight.

October/November, 2014  Senior Focus

Town hall meeting puts spotlight on Alzheimer’s By Teri Baker When you hear the words “Alzheimer’s disease,” what springs to mind? For all too many, the thought is “old people losing their memory.” But what is it really? Alzheimer’s is an irreversible, eventually fatal disease that attacks the brain. It starts out with memory loss, progresses to a decline in language skills and decision-making ability, and then descends into total dependence on caregivers. It is often accompanied by behavioral changes that can range from wandering to physically abusing those around them. As the disease spirals downward, so does its effect on caregivers. Most caregivers are family members with few resources who often times neglect themselves, other family members, friends, employment responsibilities, etc. The emotional, physical and financial stress on both patient and caregiver can be overwhelming. A caregiver’s world shrinks more and more as his/her life becomes devoted to the task of taking care of the Alzheimer’s patient.

CAREGIVERS ALL AGES

Not Those Policy sented

all caregivers are adults. who attended the Public Town Hall Meeting preby the Seattle office of the

Alzheimer’s Association in Everett a few weeks ago were all ages. A panel reflecting the depth and breadth of the Alzheimer’s experience discussed what’s being done and what it will take to find a treatment and cure for this insidious disease. One of those panelists was Alicia Kristjanson, 16, a high school junior, whose father recently passed away after a five-year battle with early onset Alzheimer’s. Kristjanson, along with her brother and mother, was her father’s caretaker from the time she was 11. “I didn’t tell anyone what was happening at home,” she said. “They wouldn’t understand anyway.” Her brother, also a high school student, noted that people rarely understand what Alzheimer’s is and how it affects the patient and family. “They just see Alzheimer’s as something where people start forgetting things,” he said. “They don’t know the complexities.” Kristjanson, who volunteers for the Alzheimer’s Association, added, “I want to use my experience for the greater good, to find a cure. I wouldn’t want to wish this on my worst enemy.” Myriam Marquez, who is living with Alzheimer’s, shared her experience for the same reason. Marquez serves on the local chap-

Snohomish County Alzheimer’s Family Caregiver Conferences October 21, 2014

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ter’s board of directors and Early Stage Advisory Council, as well as on the national advisory group. She is peer-to-peer advisor and Alzheimer’s Ambassador to Senator Patty Murray. A former county public defender and president of the bar association in Skagit County, Marquez was diagnosed in 2010. “In 2009 I came to a four-way stop on my way home and realized, ‘I don’t know where I am,’ ” she said. “It took two minutes before I realized where I was.” Because several family members had genetic Alzheimer’s, she went to the doctor the following week. A few tests were done, but no problems were found. “I knew there was something wrong. I went a whole year (before finally being diagnosed with Alzheimer’s) where no one believed what I was saying,” she reported. “I had two choices. I could continue to practice law, or do all I can to help find a cure. I have four children and grandchildren who might inherit Alzheimer’s.” The choice was clear; she quit her job.

FINDING A CURE

Finding a cure, that’s the rub. That takes awareness of the prevalence of the disease and, of course, money for research. The vast majority of chronic disease research funding flows through the federal government. For every $26,000 spent on Alzheimer’s care, the government invests less than $100 in Alzheimer’s research. Research has facilitated a significant decline in deaths from heart disease, breast cancer, prostate cancer, stroke and HIV between 2000 and 2010. Death from Alzheimer’s rose 68 percent. “We’re not suggesting money be diverted from other health research,” Bob LeRoy, chapter executive director, said. “But more money must be found.” Panelists pointed out that funds also need to be available for better health access for Alzheimer’s and other dementia patients and to help caregivers. “My biggest concern is that it’s hard to get respite for caregivers,” said Amy Leonard, who has worked in community mental health for 25 years, facilitates two caregiver support groups, serves on Snohomish County Council on Aging and is Everett Clinic’s only social worker. “I first started at a psych unit working with patients who were hitting caregivers. We don’t have a very good crisis sys-

SPEAK OUT

While encouraging the public to speak firmly and loudly to elected officials, people were reminded to broaden their own personal awareness as well. There are too many who assume it won’t happen to them and when it does, don’t ask for help until there is a crisis. “The subject is too important to avoid,” Leonard said. “Chat with friends and family. Tell them what you would want if that happened to you.” Peterson echoed her comments and encouraged participants to stay informed and contact their legislators. “There is hope now,” he said. “With more money there will be more hope.”

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tem so people go to the emergency room and wind up on a medical unit.” Tatiana Sadak, PhD, geropsychiatric nurse practitioner, assistant Professor of Geriatric Mental Health at University of Washington School of Nursing, works with family care partners, clinicians and family caregivers. “Over the years I’ve seen how great the lack of knowledge and training (about dementia) there is,” she said. “I learned that the best way to address the patient’s need is to address the needs of the family.” It’s not just family caregivers who need support, pointed out Mark Stensager who has 40 years experience as an administrator in hospital and health care systems. A past Seattle/King County Area Agency on Aging director, he continues to be actively involved in health and human service issues. “I’m concerned about quality of life care and support for long term care and aging services,” Stensager said. “We need to expand the care support. Employee turnover rates in nursing homes is 50 percent a year.” Moderator John Peterson, program manager of the Family Caregiver Program with Snohomish County Long Term Care and Aging, added, “I looked at data from last year, and it was stunning to realize that 91 percent of people the caregiver program served have reported that they are caring for loved ones with suspected or diagnosed Alzheimer’s.” The town hall meeting was recorded to provide the Alzheimer’s Association, its partners and elected officials feedback on national and state public policy priorities regarding Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias.

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Senior Focus  October/November, 2014

State, federal Alzheimer’s disease plans move forward By Teri Baker Snohomish County residents attending a town hall meeting sponsored by the Alzheimer’s Association Western and Central Washington Chapter got a chance to learn more about public policy priorities to better meet the needs of individuals, families and communities. They also became more aware of why it is vital that people take every opportunity to contact legislators and advocate for funding for research to find a cure.

The State Plan

The Alzheimer’s Disease Plan for Washington State enacted in March gives the legislature authority to develop a plan to address the full range of Alzheimer’s issues in order to meet the needs of the thousands of Washingtonians who are and will be affected by the disease. It also creates the infrastructure and accountability to confront the economic and social impact of Alzheimer’s disease. Those working on the plan include legislators, state agency officials, business leaders, the legal community, professional care providers, family caregivers and people living with Alzheimer’s. Major points in the plan include: Exploring current and anticipated impact of Alzheimer’s disease in the state. Outlining required steps the State must take to sustain and improve state services and supports for people living with Alzheimer’s and their families and mitigate

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the catastrophic emotional and economic impact. Preparing the State to address critical needs including improving the quality of the health care system; increasing public awareness; and equipping unpaid caregivers, health care professionals and others to deal with individuals with Alzheimer’s at all stages of the disease Ensuring availability and access to services and supports for diagnosis, treatment, and affordable options for long-term care. Creating the infrastructure and accountability to manage and measure the State’s response to the Alzheimer’s epidemic.

The National Plan

In January 2011 the National Alzheimer’s Project Act called for a National Alzheimer’s Plan. The initial plan was released in May 2012 with five overarching goals: Prevent and effectively treat Alzheimer’s and other dementias by 2025 Enhance public awareness and engagement Enhance care quality and efficiency Expand support for people with Alzheimer’s disease and their families Improve data to track progress (a key to receiving more funding) Last year the plan was used to identify 11 risk genes, providing insight about the disease and possible drug targets. Some funding was given to states to develop long term care services and support systems. Also, more than 23,000 healthcare providers received training on dementia. In addition, coordinated public and private efforts resulted in reducing the inappropriate use of antipsychotic medications among nursing home residents with dementia by about 14 percent. This year brought accelerated efforts to identify the earliest stages of Alzheimer’s. Collaboration in science, data sharing and prioritization among disease experts, providers and caregivers increased. Ethical considerations concerning dementia care are being addressed. The plan also has a global aspect, and supporters are preparing for a G8 Summit Meeting on Dementia next February.

Getting message to Congress

The Alzheimer’s Association,

the world’s leading voluntary health organization in Alzheimer’s care, support and research, urges people to contact their legislators and ask that they strongly support two specific bipartisan efforts in Congress. They are: The Alzheimer’s Accountability Act, which would ensure that Congress has the best possible information to set funding priorities and reach the goal of the National Plan to Address Alzheimer’s Disease – effectively preventing and treating Alzheimer’s by 2025. The act would also require the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to submit a complete, undistorted, annual Alzheimer’s research budget directly to Congress and the President reflecting what scientists believe is needed each year for Alzheimer’s research. The HOPE (Health Outcomes, Planning and Education) for Alzheimer’s Act would provide Medicare coverage for clinical diagnoses, as well as care planning with medical and non-medical options for treatment and support. It would also require documentation, treatment and care planning be placed in an individual’s medical record.

Questions about Alzheimer’s?

The Alzheimer’s Association 24/7 Helpline provides reliable information for people with memory loss, caregivers, health care professionals and the public. All calls are confidential. Just call toll free 800-272-3900.

Did you know…?

– Alzheimer’s disease is the third leading cause of death in Washington State. – More than 150,000 residents (in Washington) currently live with Alzheimer’s disease or other dementia. – They are looked after by over 350,000 caregivers – most of them unpaid family members. – These numbers are expected to triple by 2050.

Doing the math

– Alzheimer’s is the most expensive disease in America – Cost of caring for those with Alzheimer’s and other dementias this year is estimated at $214 billion. – In 2050 the cost will be $1.2 trillion. – In today’s Medicare dollars, it costs three times to care for someone with Alzheimer’s as it does someone with any other chronic disease.

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October/November, 2014  Senior Focus

Medicare mulls the politics, policies of end-of-life care planning By Alan M. Schlein Bypassing the political process, Medicare is once again trying to pay doctors to talk to patients about “advance care planning,” including living wills and end-oflife care options. This fight comes five years after the issue became a political inferno over “death panels” and rationing of care. But this time, some private insurers have already begun reimbursing doctors for these “advanced care planning” discussions, prompting a push for all of Medicare to go that way. Medicare is considering a request from the American Medical Association (AMA), the country’s largest doctors’ trade association, to designate billing codes for these conversations. This would allow for doctors to be reimbursed for their time in talking with patients about how they want to spend their final days – including whether they want to die at home or in a hospital, nursing home or hospice care; and whether they want complete life-sustaining treatment, just pain relief or something in between. Right now, doctors have to squeeze such conversations into medical appointments ostensibly held for another purpose. Many say this forces them to give short

shrift to a discussion intended to help a patient – and often family members – understand all the medical options and the risks associated with these complicated end-of-life issues. The sessions take time and need to be carefully vetted instead of being squeezed in during medical procedures or exams. Doctors also are not reimbursed for phone conversations involving relatives who don’t live in the area, nor are they compensated for patients who are still healthy but want to plan ahead and discuss advance directives. Usually, when the powerful doctors’ lobby creates these codes, they are routinely enacted. This case may be the exception. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, has not publicly discussed whether it will agree to cover end-of-life discussions, but a decision is expected this fall. If Medicare adopts the AMA recommendations, it will set the standard for private insurers, encouraging more doctors to engage in these conversations. Medicare’s approval of billing codes could potentially affect all 50 million Medicare beneficiaries. This is significant because people are living longer with illnesses and some people want to have a thoughtful discussion with their

Pro-Tem Judge Former Sno. Co. Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Law & Justice Professor Lifelong Everett Resident ENDORSED: Snohomish County Executive John Lovick Snohomish County Prosecutor Mark Roe Snohomish County Sheriff Ty Trenary

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are paid, how frequently the conversations happen, whether psychologists or other non-physicians are allowed to conduct them, and whether the conversations must be done in person and if they can include family members in the discussions. With many people not able to talk with their doctors about such care, some private-sector companies are trying to fill that role, and make a profit. A recent National Public Radio story highlighted social workers at a New Jersey company called Vital Decisions that routinely cold-calls seniors to offer what they describe as “nondirected” end-of-life counseling, paid for by insurers. Such businesses have developed, in part, because elderly patients and their families want to discuss these issues and can’t easily get their doctors to sit down for an extended conversation. Contributing to the article on this topic: NY Times; Pew Foundation’s Stateline; Newsday; Washington Post; WBUR’s Common Health.

– Senior Wire©

The politics of end-of-life decisions By Alan M. Schlein End-of-life planning remains a hot button issue politically. Like the current proposal, the provision that sparked controversy in the 2009 consideration of the Affordable Care Act, would have provided Medicare reimbursement to doctors who used office time to discuss living wills, advance care planning or other matters pertaining to patients’ endof-life preferences. It did not require such conversations, but ensured that doctors or other practitioners would be compensated for these often difficult sessions.

But then-former Alaska governor and 2008 Republican vicepresidential candidate Sarah Palin put her opinion on Facebook. “The America I know and love,” she wrote, “is not one in which my parents or my baby with Down Syndrome will have to stand in front of Obama’s ‘death panel’ so his bureaucrats can decide, based on a subjective judgment of their ‘level of productivity in society,’ whether they are worthy of health care. “Such a system is downright evil,” she wrote. Whether that was an intentionCONTINUED ON PAGE 9

The Carl Gipson Senior Center of Everett

Snohomish County Councilmember Dave Somers Snohomish County Councilmember Terry Ryan

doctors about end-of-life care options before they actually have to confront those issues. Not having the conversation means that someone else must make the tough choices – ones that can pull apart families and leave those left behind feeling guilty about the decisions made and whether everything that could be done was done. If Medicare reimburses doctors for such discussions, as it pays them for examining patients and performing procedures, the endof-life discussions are much more likely to happen. These consultations will allow patients to control decision-making as their medical options narrow. Studies show that when given a choice, patients often forgo invasive procedures at the end of life which can be costly while doing little to extend or improve the quality of the patient’s life. Even if Medicare approves reimbursing doctors for end-of-life counseling, much needs to be worked out. The impact of this policy change could be significant but will depend on how much doctors

 “OCTOBERFEAST” aka “Taste of Retirement”

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 9th Annual USO Veterans Day Dance, Tues., November 11 1 to 5 p.m. This is an opportunity to honor our veterans. Music by Route 66, a 16-piece swing orchestra. Veterans and guests: call for tickets starting Oct. 20. This event is supported by Octoberfeast vendors.  Annual Holiday Bazaar, Fri., December 5, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Handcrafted items from 50+ vendors with afghans to Zumba wear. Open to the public.

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October, 2014

Senior Focus  October/November, 2014

‘Futile Care’ at what cost By Alan M. Schlein

THE POLITICS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 8

al misrepresentation of the proposal or a misreading of it, her attack ignited a political firestorm. Then-House Republican leader, John Boehner, now the Speaker of the House of Representatives, rallied on Palin’s side. “This provision may start us down a treacherous path toward government-encouraged euthanasia if enacted into law,” he said at the time. That controversy forced lawmakers to scuttle the issue altogether. Medicare tried again in 2010, adding a regulation allowing the federal program to cover “voluntary advance care planning” as part of annual wellness visits. But, again, political pressure forced the Obama administration to pull back and rescind that part of the regulation. This time, in round three, the issue is certain to generate strong opposition again. However, now that private insurers and doctors are pushing the issue, it may change how it moves forward. On Capitol Hill, a few bipartisan bills have been introduced that would allow Medicare to cover these conversations. One,

by Rep. Earl Blumenauer, D-Ore., would require reimbursement for advance care planning. Another, by Sen. Tom Coburn, R-Okla., a doctor, who is retiring at the end of this session, would pay Medicare patients for completing advance directives. But hardly anyone thinks such controversial legislation will move forward in an election year. Blumenauer, however, remains hopeful his bill will get a hearing free of any death panel outcry. It helps, he said, that among his 30 co-sponsors are a number of Republicans, all of whom oppose the Affordable Care Act. Still, given the swirl of opposition generated by Palin in 2009 and again in 2010, some lawmakers privately suggest that some might even try and stop Medicare from implementing the billing codes for reimbursing doctors for advance directives. The rationing of health care is a touchy issue, with ethical and moral touchstones all over the place. Politicians are extremely careful when it might appear that they are talking about something that might deny lifesaving care to someone. – Senior Wire©

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A recent study took a look at the hidden costs when medical care at the end of life is futile. Virtually every day in hospital intensive care units throughout the U.S, patients get expensive treatment their caregivers and doctors know is not going to save their lives or even make them better. Now, California researchers, in a Critical Care Medicine Journal article that is certain to ignite a political controversy, report that this so-called “futile” care has a hidden price: It’s crowding out other patients who could otherwise survive, recover and get back to living their lives. The study shows that some patients who could benefit from intensive care are waiting hours and even days in the emergency room and nearby community hospitals because intensive care unit beds are occupied by patients receiving futile care. The study, conducted at UCLA, found some patients died while waiting for an ICU bed.

The researchers, led by senior author Dr. Neil Wenger, a UCLA professor of primary care medicine and head of the university’s ethics center, took great care to define what they described as futile care. They surveyed every critical care doctor, every day, on every patient, to find out whether they were treating someone they didn’t think would benefit; or whether they thought the patient would never wake up; wouldn’t survive ICU; or the patient’s goals could never be met; or that the burden of care grossly outweighed the potential benefit. With that definition, the study found 11 percent of the patients were getting futile care and another nine percent were getting “probably futile care.” Subsequently, the researchers noted, two-thirds of the patients who received futile care died in the hospital. Eighty-five percent died within six months. The concept of “futile” care

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10 October/November, 2014  Senior Focus

Make smart Medicare choices for 2015 By Ron Pollack As we head into autumn, people with Medicare once again need to consider their options for next year. Even if you like the coverage you have now, you should spend at least a few minutes making sure it will still meet your needs next year. Here are some key questions that people with Medicare should ask. When is the enrollment period? Medicare’s open enrollment period runs from October 15 to December 7. During this time, you

can make changes in your Part D prescription drug plan or Medicare Advantage plan. Or, if you don’t have a plan, this is the time to select one. How is this different from the open enrollment period for the health insurance marketplaces? If you have Medicare, the health insurance marketplace is not for you. Medicare coverage and its open enrollment period are completely different from those of the health insurance marketplaces (also known as exchanges).

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The health insurance marketplace offers coverage and financial assistance for people who do not qualify for Medicare – usually, people under age 65 who do not have permanent disabilities. The marketplace open enrollment period is from November 15 through February 15. If you have friends or loved ones who need coverage and do not qualify for Medicare, encourage them to visit wahealth planfinder.org. (Outside Washington state visit healthcare.gov.) What are my options? During Medicare open enrollment, if you have a Part D prescription drug plan or Medicare Advantage plan, you can change it. You can also join a Part D or Medicare Advantage plan for the first time. If you currently have original Medicare and a supplemental plan (either a private Medigap plan or a plan with a former employer), be careful before dropping your supplemental plan. You may not be able to get that plan back later. How should I prepare for open enrollment? If you have a Part D or Medicare Advantage plan, find out what if any changes will be made for 2015. By now, you should have received in the mail an Annual Notice of Change and/or Evidence of Coverage from your plan provider. These notices will highlight any changes in the plan’s costs, benefits, and rules for the upcoming

Research on your own

If you prefer to research options on your own, visit medicare.gov. There are some tools provided to help you understand your options. Medicare Eligibility Tool: Select the Information for my Situation tab and then the I’m getting started with Medicare tab. Medicare Plan Finder: Provides personalized information about Medicare prescription drug plans, Medicare Advantage Plans, other Medicare health plans, and Medicare supplement insurance (medigap) policies. Select the Find Health & Drug plans tab.

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year. Use these resources to find out whether your plan will cover the same services, drugs, doctors, hospitals, and pharmacies. Are premiums changing? What about copayments? Once you know what your current plan will cover next year, you can start making comparisons. To compare your current plan to other plans, visit medicare.gov/ find-a-plan or attend an open enrollment information session (see page 11 for schedule). If I like my current plan, do I need to do anything? Even if you like your current Part D or Medicare Advantage plan, it could still be changing next year. You should always check to see what your plan will cover next year and make sure it still fits your needs. What if someone tells me I must buy a particular plan? You should never believe any high-pressure sales pitch for a Medicare plan. Private plans do sometimes decide to drop out of Medicare or change their coverage significantly. If this happens to your plan, take the time to learn about your options and make an informed choice. You will never be left without coverage – you will always have the option of taking original Medicare. How can I get more information? You can get a lot of information about your options on the Medicare website, medicare.gov, or by calling 1-800-MEDICARE. But the best way to get help is to get individual counseling from a SHIBA (Senior Health Insurance Benefits Advisors) volunteer. SHIBA volunteers are very busy during the open enrollment period so call early to make an appointment. (See schedule, page 11). Ron Pollack is the Executive Director of Families USA a national organization for health care consumers.

Special Enrollment Periods There are Special Enrollment Periods (SEPs) that are available when certain events occur to change your Medicare coverage or eligibility. Examples would include events like changes in your living arrangements, such as if you moved to an area that is not served by your plan, if you return to the U.S. after living elsewhere, just left a nursing home, etc. SEPs may also be available if you lose your current coverage, have an opportunity to change your coverage (such as being offered coverage through an employer), and more. To see if your situation qualifies for special enrollment, call 800MEDICARE (800-633-4227). You can also visit medicare.gov; in the search box type special enrollment periods. SHIBA volunteers are another option and can answer most questions. In Snohomish County call 425-290-1276; outside Snohomish County call the Insurance Commissioner’s office, 800-562-6900.

Senior Focus  October/November, 2014

The Time is Now …

Medicare information sessions Senior Services of Snohomish County and SHIBA (Statewide Health Insurance Benefits Advisors) will hold Medicare information sessions at locations throughout Snohomish County, October 15 through December 5. SHIBA volunteers and Senior Services staff will be on hand to help you understand your health care coverage options and evaluate and compare health and prescription drug plans. There is no charge for this confidential and impartial counseling service. When you attend the session, bring your Medicare card, a list of your prescription drugs including dosages, your current plan card, and any letter(s) you may have received from your insurance plan. An appointment is required and can be made by calling Senior Information and Assistance at 425-513-1900 or 800422-2024. Camano Community Center, 606 Arrowhead Rd., October 28 & November 18.

Carl Gipson Senior Center, 3025 Lombard, Everett, October 23. Center for Healthy Living, 4100 Alderwood Mall Blvd., Suite 1, Lynnwood. November 3. East County Senior Center, 276 Sky River Parkway, Monroe, October 16. Edmonds Senior Center, 220 Railroad Ave., October 21 and November 13. Ken Baxter Senior Center, 514 Delta Ave., Marysville, October 29. Lynnwood Senior Center, 19000 44th Ave. W., October 17. Snohomish Senior Center, 506 4th St., October 22. Stanwood Community Center, 7430 276th St. N.W., November 5. Stillaguamish Senior Center, 18308 Smokey Pt. Blvd., Arlington, November 12. Senior Services, 11627 Airport Rd., Suite B, Everett. Mondays & Fridays, October 17 through December 5. Closed November 11, 27 and 28

Need help with premiums, prescription drug costs? During these challenging times with the cost of gas, food, housing, etc. going up, it can be difficult to pay for everything, especially if you are on a fixed income. If you are struggling to make ends meet, here are a couple of options that help income-eligible people with healthcare costs. One option is the Medicare Savings Program (MSP) which helps pay the Part A and Part B Medicare premiums. The monthly income limits for this program are $1,313 for an individual and $1,770 for a couple with assets limited to $7,160 an individual or $10,750 for a couple. MSP will also pay any Medicare deductibles and co-pay for an individual with a monthly income of $973 or a couple with a monthly income of 1,311. To apply for MSP contact your local DSHS Community Service Office or call Medicare at 800633-4227. If you need the phone number for the CSO in your area, call Senior Information and Assistance at 425-513-1900. Assistance is also available through a program called Extra Help which helps with Medicare Part D prescription drug costs. Extra Help is available for those with limited income and resources. This program will pay for all or most of the monthly premium and annual deductible and will lower the co-payments related to your prescription drug coverage. To apply for Extra Help with your Medicare prescription drug costs, call Social Security at 800772-1213 or visit ssa.gov.

To qualify for the Extra Help, an individual’s monthly income is limited to $1,459; for a married couple the monthly income is limited to $1,966. Resources are limited to $13,440 for an individual and $26,860 for a couple. Your house, car or personal possessions are not counted as resources. The income eligibility requirements change annually (in the spring). If you have questions about either of these programs, you can also contact a SHIBA volunteer. In Snohomish County call 425290-1276; outside Snohomish County, call 800-562-6900.

Resources available to those diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease

Elder Info Have a Question? We Have an Answer!

By Cynthia Nowowiejski

Senior Services of Snohomish County

I have just been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease and want to talk to my family members and help them to better understand this disease. How can I find more information and resources?

You may want to contact the Northwest Parkinson’s Foundation which offers information, education and advocacy for persons with Parkinson’s disease. You may have questions about what to do next, what to expect to happen physically, how to cope emotionally and financially, and how the disease will impact your relationships. The Foundation provides support to people living with Parkinson’s disease and their families. and offers a bi-monthly newsletter and a website with weekly emails and news updates. The toll free helpline number is 877-9807500 or visit the website at nwpf. org. You may find it helpful to meet with others who have Parkinson’s disease. A support group includes people who help and support each other as well as share resources and ideas. Each group is different and participants are in various stages of the disease. Support group meetings usually consist of an educational presentation, guest speaker and/or open discussion. Resource information is also available. Everett Support Group meets at Providence Regional Medical Center, Colby Campus, The meeting is held on the 4th Saturday from 2-4 p.m. For infor-

mation, call Helen Hopkins, 425327-3348, or April Colburn, 425258-1267. Edmonds Support Group meets at the Edmonds Senior Center, 220 Railroad Ave. The meeting is held on the 2nd Wednesday from 1-2 p.m. For information, call Carol Aguayo, 425-743-6029. Stanwood Support Group meets at Stanwood Community and Senior Center, 7430 276th St. N.W. The meeting is held on the 2nd Monday from 10-11:30 a.m. For information, contact Tori Kelly, 360-939-0640 or Ginger Dollarhide, 360-629-8426.

Upcoming event

The Northwest Parkinson’s Foundation and American Parkinson Disease Association, Washington Chapter, will co-sponsor the annual HOPE conference on Saturday, November 1, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. The conference will be held at Meydenbauer Center, 11100 N.E. 6th St., Bellevue. The $35 fee includes lunch and snacks. For information, call Melissa at 206-946-6515 or visit pdhope.org. The fee is $40 for those registering after October 17. The conference will include several speakers and will offer information on medications, treatments, diet, music therapy and movement. Exhibitors include a variety of organizations and companies that will share information and resources for people with Parkinson’s disease and their care providers. Senior Information and Assistance is the gateway to access services for older adults in Snohomish County. To speak with an I&A Specialist who will listen to your concerns, answer questions and explore options, phone 425-513-1900 or 800-422-2024. Learn about programs and services available to seniors and people with disabilities. Visit sssc.org or adrhelp.org.

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12 October/November, 2014  Senior Focus

Washington’s Long Term Care system receives high marks Advocates caution, however, more work is needed to support families A new report shows that Washington State’s long-term care system ranks 2nd in the nation, but AARP and other aging advocates caution that budget pressures threaten to turn the clock backwards on our state’s high quality and cost-effective approach. The comprehensive state-bystate Scorecard from AARP was issued with support of the nation’s leading organizations behind quality long-term care, The Commonwealth Fund and SCAN Foundation. It finds that Washington does better than most states in providing choices and opportunities for people to stay in their own home or communities and to avoid expensive or unnecessary hospital or nursing home stays. While the report gives Washington an overall high ranking, it also sheds light on key weaknesses in our system and points to needed reform in areas including support for unpaid family caregivers, quality of care in nursing homes, and affordability. Raising Expectations 2014: A State Scorecard on Long-Term Services and Supports for Older Adults, People with Physical Disabilities, and Family Caregiv-

ers ranks each state overall and within 26 performance indicators along five key dimensions: affordability and access; choice of setting and provider; quality of life and quality of care; support for family caregivers; and effective transitions. New indicators this year include length of stay in nursing homes and use of anti-psychotic drugs by nursing homes, which can raise serious concerns about the quality of institutional care. “We have a strong track record in our state of finding ways to help people live independently, at home, as they age,” says Doug Shadel, state director of AARP. “Since the mid-1990s, our state has been very intentional about moving people away from expensive institutional care and toward more cost-effective and popular home and community-based services,” says Shadel. “While the Scorecard ranks us 2nd in overall choice and quality, it is notable that we rank 34th in long-term care spending per capita. As a result, our system is both better and cheaper than other states. “It’s critical that we don’t turn the clock backward on this suc-

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The State Supreme Court of Washington does not recognize certification of specialists in the practice of law and that the certificate, award or recognition is not a requirement to practice law in the state of Washington

cess. Throughout the great recession, AARP fought back against budget proposals to reduce home and community-based services,” says Shadel. “These cuts would simply push people back towards expensive nursing home care. We anticipate more budget pressure in 2015 and once again will urge lawmakers not to make decisions that are penny-wise and poundfoolish.” The Scorecard reports that Washington is doing well serving people in the community but illustrates there is more work to be done and we don’t have time to stand idle. For example, the report shows that Washington ranks 38th in the nation on a measure of caregiver well-being.

FAMILY CAREGIVERS

Today, unpaid family caregivers provide the bulk of care for older Washingtonians, in part because the cost of long-term care remains unaffordable for most middle-income families. In Washington, more than 850,000 residents help their aging parents, spouses and other loved ones stay at home by providing assistance with transportation, bathing and dressing, finances, complex medical tasks like wound care and injections, and more. The value of this unpaid care is estimated at $10.6 billion. “When it comes to helping older Washingtonians live in the setting of their choice, this silent army of family caregivers assumes the lion’s share of responsibility,” explains Shadel. “Many juggle fulltime jobs with their caregiving duties; others provide 24/7 care. With every task they undertake, family caregivers save the state money by keeping their loved ones out of costly nursing homes – most

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often paid for by Medicaid. They have earned some basic support.” According to the Scorecard, 60 percent of family caregivers in Washington State face a degree of stress and worry. Washington needs to do more to support family caregivers. As such, AARP is fighting to expand the Family Caregiver Support Program. This program provides support for caregivers like counseling, referrals and respite so they have time to take care of their own needs. The Scorecard also points to the quality of care in nursing homes as a key area of improvement. Washington ranks in the middle on indicators such as residents with pressure sores and use of antipsychotic medication, and significantly lower than most states in the area of nursing home staff turnover rates. AARP is working with nursing home provider associations and the State Long Term Care Ombudsman to improve these indicators and ensure quality of care for all vulnerable elders in our state.

LONG TERM CARE COSTS

Paying for long term care is a growing challenge. The Scorecard reveals that only 66 people out of 1,000 age 40+ have private long term care insurance. Without insurance the cost of care is prohibitive. According to the Scorecard, care is particularly expensive in Washington State: The median annual nursing home private pay cost is two-anda-half times the median income of people age 65+. The median annual home care private pay cost is nearly 90 percent of median household income for people age 65+. Without private insurance many people are forced with no other option other than to spend down to poverty to qualify for Medicaid assistance. AARP supports legislation to study alternative financing options. The bill passed the Washington state House last session and will likely to be considered again in 2015. “This Scorecard gives us a snapshot of how well Washington serves our older residents, those with disabilities, and family caregivers – and shows us where we must sharpen our focus to better assist hardworking Washingtonians,” concludes Shadel. “With the age wave upon us, now is the time for policymakers to act.” The full Scorecard, along with an interactive map of state rankings and information, is available at longtermscorecard.org. Senior Information and Assistance Answers Questions – Explores Options

425.513.1900

Senior Focus  October/November, 2014

Correct your credit score There is a lot of talk via mail and email, as well as television and newspaper ads about checking your credit report to monitor mistakes. Maintaining a good credit score is important should you have to borrow money to buy a house, car or major appliance. Or apply for a credit card as well as keep the ones you have. But little is said about making a correction. In this computerized age, getting a copy of your credit report is relatively easy. Each of the three major credit-reporting bureaus – TransUnion, Equifax and Experian – is required by law to give you one free report within a 12-month period. To get a copy of your report, do not contact the bureau but go online to annualcreditreport.com and you should be able to access it immediately. You can ask for all three bureau reports at the same time or space the requests over a few months and ask for one at a time. You’re also entitled to a free report if a company denies your application for credit, employment or insurance. You have to request the report within 60 days of that action. So how do you correct errors in

your report? First of all, read the report thoroughly. If you spot an error, go to the credit-reporting bureau’s website and track down the source of the error. If the mistake was made by the company making the report to the credit-reporting bureau, contact the company directly.

Home safety devices may save you money A few handy safety devices can not only lower your level of worry about safety around the house, they may even save you a few bucks on home insurance if you check with the company providing the coverage. First off, get yourself a fire extinguisher, recommends a Kiplinger’s Personal Finance booklet. Keep it near the kitchen where a cooking accident may cause a fire. If you can afford it, get another one for the patio barbecue. While you’re shopping, pick up a couple of smoke detectors. Place these alarms near your bedrooms and near an attached garage because many fires occur at night when occupants are asleep. Get at least one carbon-monoxide detector, which can also issue an alarm if there is any leakage of explosive gases, such as natural gas used for heating your house or cooking. – Mature Life Features

Vote Mike Wilson For State Representative

Benefits of a healthy mind is a hot topic among older adults Keeping your mind healthy as you age is a hot topic among older adults and anyone wanting to age well. Almost daily, new research emerges about what foods, physical activities, hobbies, or personality characteristics help older adults maintain their cognitive abilities. If you would like to learn what you can do to enhance your brain function, plan to attend Sustain Your Brain: Keeping Your Mind Healthy As You Age on Friday, October 17, 9 a.m.-12 noon, at the Stanwood Senior Center, 7430 276th St N.W. Keynote speaker and psychologist Julie A. Stroemel from The

Everett Clinic will discuss how to deal with normal aging changes and how your mental health is closely linked to your physical health. Lilly Kuo, MS, RD, CD from Sen-ior Services of Snohomish County and exercise instructor Irene Philips will talk about the respective roles that diet and exercise play in retaining mental alertness as we age. Kamilia Dunsky, LMHC from Senior Services, will explain that how we choose to manage our moods and connect with the community plays an important role in maintaining our optimal brain health. The presentation, sponsored by the Healthy Aging committee of the Snohomish County Council on Aging, is free. For more information call the Center, 360-6297403.

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HANS DELIVERS Hans Dunshee knows seniors don’t just care about other seniors. We want jobs for our kids, education for our grandchildren, a doctor when people need one. Hans Dunshee works his tail off and delivers. Find out more at HansDunshee.com. Then please remind friends to vote for Hans and send those ballots in. Thank you. -- Mr. Mike Therrell, Snohomish

Strengthening Our Schools

The Supreme Court has clearly stated the state legislature is not making education a priority. However, we still have very few people with classroom experience in Olympia. Mike is running to change that. Mike will bring real life examples to Olympia when they talk about how changes impact the lives of the students and teachers in Washington’s public schools.

Creating Jobs

We are still stuck in a stagnant economy. Mike believes one of the top priorities is creating jobs. He will work to streamline regulations, ensure new economic development for Snohomish County, and promote job training to move workers into new skilled living wage jobs.

Protecting Our Quality Of Life

Quality of life is linked to so many factors, one of which is transportation. Mike will work to speed up linking the people of the 44th legislative district to fast, safe, clean, and inexpensive public transportation up and down the I-5 corridor. He will work to make light rail service to Snohomish County a reality. Paid For By Friends of Mike Wilson, PO Box 14744, Mill Creek, WA 98082

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14 October/November, 2014  Senior Focus

Omaha for old-times’ sake Get Aways Adventures in Travel

By Joan Rattner Heilman Ask your friends and relatives what they know about Omaha, and you’ll hear, “All I know is that’s where Warren Buffet and those steaks come from.” Few people realize Omaha is a much underrated city appreciated mostly by savvy Midwesterners and people on business trips who land up there by accident. Sure, Warren Buffett makes his home here, but so do scores of major corporations that attract visitors from everywhere. In the last few years, Omaha has boot-strapped itself from a rural outpost in the Nebraska prairies into a “cool” oasis of sophisticated culture fed by good restaurants, renowned art collections, a symphony orchestra, a lively performing arts scene, and historic sites. It has a friendly small-town flavor where the inhabitants are happy to talk to you and find out where you come from and whether you need any help, advice, or information about their home town. It doesn’t take long to dis-

cover that, aside from culture and entertainment, Omaha has some special attractions of interest to pretty much everyone. Take Boys Town which was made famous by the 1938 movie with Mickey Rooney playing a lost boy and Spencer Tracy starring as Father Flanagan who founded the refuge in 1917 to rescue children from the streets. The priest who said, “There is no such thing as a bad boy or girl,” housed his boys in a former boarding house in downtown Omaha before moving to an old farm on the outskirts of the city. It has since grown into a 900-acre campus that has its own post office, zip code, schools and police department. The campus has the capacity for 550 children, and now includes girls, all living in individual group homes with resident families. You can take a campus tour led by one of the children. Our tour leader was Isaac, a 15-year-old Native American who was vicemayor of the student government. We headed for the museum to learn about Boys Town’s history through vintage photographs, movie clips, and memorabilia; walked through Father Flanagan’s house; and stopped at a group home and the chapel.

Back in the heart of Omaha you’ll find The Old Market District with its narrow cobblestone streets lined with century-old warehouses left over from the days when Omaha was a major railroad hub. The restored buildings have been converted into quirky shops and boutiques, restaurants, sidewalk cafes, bars, breweries, antique shops, and smoking salons. Two stores offer mountains of old-fashioned candies you’ve not tasted since childhood. While you’re there, you can stop by the Visitors Center for details on what else is going on in Omaha. The Strategic Air and Space Museum is paradise for anyone fascinated by old airplanes and the days when they flew. The huge collection of historic military aircraft and space vehicles include, among others, a B-52, U-2 spy plane, B-1A bomber, MiG-21, Apollo Command Space Module 009, Lockheed SR-71 Blackbird spy plane, and Boeing B-29 Superfortress. All are displayed in huge hangers where you can stroll among them, examine them, touch them, and even climb into a couple of them. The museum is a creation of the now-defunct cold-war-era U.S. Strategic Air Command based at

ell as iors and w s a es for sen m o h 00 groups 0 , 3 1 rted r ocacy o e p v o p , e I su roperty isited, and adv r v hbor u t e g i v a ’ l e N gis ent of p ng aid rs, I centers e a L e e y Dear t i r o e Sta the paym for hear ow more st tw es, senio h a t l n e i g n ll m th s. man exibility i licensin (1099), a aking h Over ement ho isabilitie s e e m fr as a ess and fl mplify th state tax on rule ught to . retir le with d , t u e p i m peop ur in vide fairn to law), s the state oratoriu ssfully fo usinesses o y o l am eal ks t pro ucce all b d in entia s s e Than lation to 09, signe law), rep provide k. I also s our sm e oritiz rable, for i legis s (HB 23 108, now 168), and es at ris fuel and r p nd tothe vulne taxe ialists (2 hoices (1 erty valu s on our a s n mea ring for t rates. spec th care c uts prop gher taxe r u o e to n nd ca emen u i n h i t t heal 8) that p lls for hi i n live wc safety, a reimburs ill co ? o w t (147 at the bi I s i e d s, an ond term eagu ion, publ Medicaid l e l defe s o i c m c t y r pro e for a se ed m ike educaing to cut u g o r l u l I ices l fulfi your vot efus o t s r serv ple by r nio y I have e m s a r x e ou u! Ma o t t i rely, e we rotect yo c o n i e S W t to p h g fi

nearby Offutt Air Force Base. It also includes several special exhibits featuring astronauts, Doolittle’s Tokyo Raiders, and the Martin Bomber Plant that made the Enola Gay, the plane that delivered and dropped the first atomic bomb on Japan. A dedicated group of volunteers – the youngest was in his early 80s and the oldest had just turned 95 – spend every Tuesday and Thursday restoring the old aircraft, working on one at a time because of space restrictions. Each plane takes an average of two years and 10,000 man-hours of labor to complete. For more nostalgia, visit the Union Train Station, which was the depot for seven different railroads, including the Union Pacific, when Omaha was a major railroad hub smack in the middle of the country. The meticulously preserved art deco building, built in 1931, has become the Durham Museum where multitudes of tourists come to conjure up the past. The Great Hall – the former main passenger waiting room – has majestic cathedral windows, massive light fixtures, and terrazzo floors. A long row of intricate brass ticket windows lines one side of the hall. On the other side, wooden benches are populated by lifelike bronze statues of World War II servicemen and other travelers who passed through the depot CONTINUED ON PAGE 15

Courage We Can Trust “My Granddad, a retired U.S. Army Colonel and Accounting PhD who received in-home care in his 90’s, often coached me, ‘If you are going to be a bear, be a grizzly.’ I enjoy facing these challenges head on in Olympia, and I’ll continue fighting to protect our seniors.” --Elizabeth Scott, State Representative, 39th LD pos. 2

Elizabeth meets Sue at Sultan Senior Center Lunch Paid for by Elizabeth4State - 14751 North Kelsey Street, Suite # 105-386, Monroe, WA 98272, 206-303-9489

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Senior Focus  October/November, 2014

Have questions about programs or services available to seniors and people with disabilities? For answers, call Information and Assistance at 425-513-1900 or visit sssc.org or adrhelp.org.

Omaha’s Old Market District still bustles as night approaches. photo courtesy of Joan Rattner Heilman

OMAHA CONTINUED FROM PAGE 14

on their way somewhere. An authentic 1931 soda fountain still serves phosphates and sodas. Downstairs, a 1940s streetcar and 1890s train cars are on display. There’s still more, like the

More help needed National Consumer Voice, which advocates for nursing home patients and their families, has started a new campaign to improve staffing levels in such residences. This is not a new issue; it goes back many years and involves not only more people to care for residents, but also better salaries and improved training. “Even the best nurses and nurse aides can’t deliver quality care if there aren’t enough of them,” according to the national organization. And there are not enough of them, because the federal government, which has issued untold numbers of regulations for nursing home operators, “does not require (nursing homes) to have at least a minimum number of staff on duty.” To rectify this situation, the National Consumer Voice has begun a nationwide campaign, “Better Staffing: The Key To Better Care.” It is asking people to do everything possible to bring this issue

Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, one of the best in the country; the Joslyn Museum, which houses a large collection of renowned art including a huge glass sculpture by Dale Chihuly; and Lauritzen Gardens, 20 glorious gardens over 100 acres. – Mature Life Features© to the attention of legislators, from writing letters to Congress, to addressing groups, to providing campaign tool kits with issue briefs, a consumer fact sheet, and more. They emphasize that it is very important that changes be made as “more than 40 percent of Americans who reach the age of 65 will spend some time in a nursing home during their remaining years.” For further information, visit the website at theconsumervoice. org/betterstaffing. – Cheryl Keyser

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16 October/November, 2014  Senior Focus

What to consider when choosing a walk-in bathtub Dear …

Savvy Senior By Jim Miller

I’m interested in getting a walk-in bathtub for my wife that’s easy for her to get into and out of, but could use some assistance. Can you offer any consumer tips? Need Help Dear Need,

A walk-in bathtub is a great op-

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tion for seniors with mobility problems who have trouble getting in and out of a traditional tub. But with so many options available today, choosing one can be challenging. Here are a few tips that can help.

Bathtub basics

Walk-in bathtubs are specialty products that have a watertight, hinged door built into the side of the tub that provides a much lower threshold to step over (usually 3 to 7 inches) versus a standard tub that’s around 15 inches. In addition to the low threshold, most walk-in tubs also have a built-in seat, grab bars, antislip floors and a handheld showerhead. And many higher-end models offer therapeutic spa-like features that are great for seniors with arthritis and other ailments. The kind of walk-in tub you choose will depend on the size and layout of your bathroom, your wife’s needs and preferences, and your budget. Prices for a good walk-in tub typically run between $3,000 and $10,000 installed. Here are some other things you should know. Quality check: The best walkin bathtubs on the market today are made in the U.S. Also, make sure the company you choose has a lifetime “leak-proof” door seal

warranty and lengthy warranties on both the tub and the operating system. Tub size: While walk-in bathtubs vary in shape and size, most models have high-walls (three feet or higher), are 26 to 32 inches wide, and will fit into the same 60inch long space as a standard tub without having to reconfigure the room. If the walk-in tub doesn’t quite fit the old bathtub space, extension kits are available to ensure a good fit. Door options: Most walkin tubs have an inward opening door, but if your wife uses a wheelchair or is a large person, an outward opening door may be a better option because they’re easier to enter and exit. But, be aware that because these doors swing out, they require more bathroom space. One other style to consider is the “rising-wall” bathtub made by Kohler, which sits about two feet off the ground and has a side panel that slides up and down. These tubs can be entered from a seated position, which makes it a nice option for wheelchair users. Tub type: Most companies offer several different types of walkin tubs. The most basic type is a soaker tub, or you can get a therapeutic tub that offers either whirlpool water jets or bubble massage

air jets, or a combination of the two. Fast fill and drain: One drawback to using a walk-in bathtub is that the bather must sit in the tub as it fills and drains, which can make for a chilly experience. To help with this, choose a tub that has fast-filling faucets and pump-assisted drainage systems, which significantly speeds up the process. Where to shop: While there are many companies that make, sell and install walk-in bathtubs, some of the best in the industry are Safe Step (safesteptub.com, 800-346-6616); American Standard (americanstandard.com, 866423-0800); Premier (premiercare bathing.com, 800-311-6743); and Jacuzzi (jacuzzi.com, 800-2884002). Many big box retailers like Lowes, Home Depot and Sears also sell walk-in bathtubs. Unfortunately, Medicare does not cover walk-in bathtubs, but many companies offer financing with monthly payment plans. To get started, contact a few companies who will send a local dealer to your home to assess your bathroom, and give you product options and estimates for free. Send your senior questions to: Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070, or visit SavvySenior.org.

(R)

Senior Focus  October/November, 2014

Phone scams focus on grandparents By Cheryl M. Keyser Phone scams have become all too common, especially those focused on grandparents. In these cases, someone calls an individual and pretends to be a grandchild caught doing something illegal, involved in an accident, or facing some other imminent emergency. The scammers use these ruses to scare people into sending them money. But, it is only after the money has been collected that the individual learns there is no problem. Mr. W., who recently spoke at a hearing of the Senate Special Committee on Aging, is an 81-year-old grandparent from Cincinnati, Ohio. He was recently cheated out of $7,000 by a scam. He received a call, purportedly from his grandson, asking his help to put up bail so he could get out of jail and said not to tell his parents. A “police officer” came on the line and said that $3,000 would be needed to free the grandson and provide explicit instructions on how to send the money. Mr. W. was to buy Green Dot MoneyPak cards at a Walmart in $1,000 denominations which had to paid in cash. He bought the cards and called the “police” at a Canadian phone number he was given and provided the scratch-off numbers on the cards. The “police” now said that they needed an additional $4,000 which he also sent. It was only after a third call, asking for another $2,500, that he decided to check further. He called his grandson only to find that he was not in Canada, but had been at his job all day. By this time, it was impossible to retrieve the money. A similar case happened to grandparents in Chambersburg, Pa. This time Western Union was used to wire the money to Canada to help their grandson. Again cash was necessary and once sent, could not be traced. Only after sending a second sum did the grandparents contact the parents and discover they were the victims of a scam. Another elaborate scheme supposedly involved the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). Members of the staff of Sen. Susan Collins (R-Maine) tracked down a con artist who claimed to be representing the IRS. He told the “taxpayer” that he faced legal action, even arrest, if he did not pay certain taxes. He not only identified himself as a member of the “Federal Investigative Department” of the IRS, but also gave the correct address for the agency in Washington, D.C. and the room number. The last

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piece of information is where he tripped up, that room number does not exist. Situations like these happen every day. “Since the beginning of 2012, the Federal Trade Commission has received 30,000 complaints about scammers...costing Americans more than 42 billion dollars,” said Sen. Bill Nelson (DFla.), Chairman of the Senate Aging Committee. He also noted that such scams have doubled from 2009 to 2013.

OTHER SCAMS

Nor are phone scams the only kinds perpetrated. There are reverse mortgage scams, including equity theft and foreclosure; investment schemes; telemarketing and internet fraud (classic ones are the Nigerian or Jamaican lottery); and one of the largest – health care fraud – according to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). In the latter case, the FBI works with the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to root out cases of fraud and in fiscal year 2013 recovered $4.3 billion. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) also plays a very active role in combating scams. In one case, the FTC charged that MoneyGram International “knew or avoided knowing,” that a number of its agents represented “95 percent of the fraud complaints” registered in 2008 regarding money transfers to Canada. The FTC also claimed that the company ignored warnings from both its own employees and law enforcement officials that fraud was underway. In the end MoneyGram paid $18 million to settle these charges and in another case it paid $100 million to fraud victims and an additional $1.2 million to the Vermont Attorney General for fraud. Similar charges have been

brought against Western Union. As many of these schemes are conducted over the telephone, a representative of the U.S. Telecom Association, vice-president Kevin Rupy, pointed out that with the explosion of communications services, telecommunications companies have had to develop novel ways to deal with scammers. As Rupy noted, “we have been trying to legislate out of existence the problems of robocalling, spam, autodialing, and caller-ID spoofing for as long as two decades, but new technologies seem to make the problems grow worse.” Furthermore, it is difficult to enact laws when “the evil genius of scammers” seems to be way ahead of any attempt to control, prosecute, or eliminate them. In testimony presented to the Aging Committee, the Green Dot Corporation reported that it has removed its MoneyPak PIN product from Walmart and other Green Dot retailers and it will be “completely unavailable” by the end of the first quarter of 2015.

Walmart, Green Dot, and CVS pharmacy all have reiterated that they are improving both the training of their sales staff and providing better warnings on their packaging so that consumers are aware of potential scams.

WHAT YOU SHOULD DO

What does an individual do when contacted by someone they don’t know, with a phony story, and demanding money? First, don’t panic. Second, take their information and say you will return their call. Then check out the story. If you suspect fraud, report it to the Senate Aging Committee at its fraud line, 855-303-9470, the local police, or the Federal Trade Commission at 877-FTC-HELP. The FTC also has an on-line way to registry a complaint. On its website, ftc.gov, click on the button that says I Would Like To and then on Submit a Consumer Complaint. The website also contains a great deal of information on scams and ways to avoid fraud.

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18 October/November, 2014  Senior Focus

Money Talk Potpourri

Turn up the heat against those trying fraudulently to turn back time By Teresa Ambord Another scam common targeting senior citizens: anti-aging products and services. Who doesn’t want to look younger? Every now and then, there is a legitimate medical breakthrough which really does seem to make us look younger, but they are rare. Our generation has seen amazing advances in science and technology – putting a man on the moon, heart transplants, limitless

information at our fingertips – so it seems natural that we continue to hope there will be a lotion or pill that will appear to turn back time. It should also come as no surprise that scammers take advantage of that desire to pick our pockets. The FBI says seniors are particularly vulnerable to antiaging scams, such as those which offer free products if you’d just be so kind as to provide a credit card

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number. You know… for shipping and handling (the handling fee is where they may get you, since it is up to their discretion). Some products are sold for a very low price if you lock into an agreement where you’ll be sent new shipments every month, which, of course, are charged to your credit card. Because seniors are most vulnerable, the FBI warns: Beware of any product that claims to have a “secret formula” or provide a “breakthrough.” Don’t be afraid to ask questions, like exactly what a product should and should not do for you. Do some research on your own about anti-aging products. You can always call the Better Business Bureau to ask if there have been complaints about a product. Realize that celebrity testimonials and endorsements can be misleading. Beware of products which are marketed as having “no side effects.” If a product says it makes a visit to a physician unnecessary, beware. Take no dietary or nutritional supplement without consulting your doctor first. If you do want to order something, get a physical address rather than just a post office box and a telephone number. Also, before you place an order, call the seller at the number you are given to make sure it is a real number. While we’re on the subject, according to Zenspiration.org, longterm use of anti-aging products can permanently change your skin texture. You could end up with changed skin pigmentation, dry skin and acne. Some products cause the natural cycle of skin shedding to speed up, which might make your facial blood vessels more visible. In summary, some may appear to make you look younger, but in the end, leave more damage than they claim to repair. Zenspiration adds, safe ingredients for skin care products include such things

as: aloe-vera, coconut oil, essential oils and unrefined butters like cocoa, shea and mango. But let’s face it. You know the real secret to anti-aging as much as reasonably possible – eat right, exercise moderately, drink plenty of water, and avoid too much sun. And laugh a lot, live humbly and with grace, and be interested in something. Marilyn Monroe was a bombshell who had all the money in the world to create artificial beauty. Yet she said: “I want to grow old without facelifts… I want to have the courage to be loyal to the face I’ve made. Sometimes I think it would be easier to avoid old age, to die young, but then you’d never complete your life, would you? You’d never wholly know you.”

Shop safely this year Did you see the news video of an elderly woman whose purse was lifted out of her shopping cart? In the process, she was knocked unconscious and suffered long-term injuries. We women make ourselves easy targets when we set a purse in the child seat of a shopping cart unprotected. I’ve seen purses open, with cash and credit cards in full view, and sometimes the shopper has walked away from the cart to look for an item. The shopper is not paying attention, but you can bet thieves are. They are waiting for such an opportunity. It’s almost an invitation for theft. Nothing is foolproof, but with holiday shopping coming up soon, this is one safety tip that bears repeating: Go ahead and put your purse in the child seat of the cart, but use the built in seat belt to CONTINUED ON PAGE 19

Senior Information and Assistance Answers Questions – Explores Options

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POTPOURRI CONTINUED FROM PAGE 18

strap it in firmly. I also carry a long key chain for when there is no seat belt. Any thief who tries to quickly lift your purse and run will be in for a surprise. But even when it is strapped in, be alert. Another safety tip: when you get to your car and are emptying groceries into your trunk, a common habit is to put your purse in last. Thieves note this and watch for it. My sister lives in an upscale area where there is a nearly zero crime rate. Yet one day as she emptied her groceries into her trunk, a young male ran by, easily grabbed her purse and was gone. Shopping safety is always critical, and as the economy worsens, crime may escalate. Thieves are counting on you to be even more distracted at the holidays. Fight back by securing your purse or wallet. By the way, if you live in a lowcrime area, don’t let that lull you into false confidence. The police told my sister that thieves eventually take note of such an area, knowing that residents will be less watchful. Those in nearby towns may be willing to commute if it means finding unwary shoppers. November is the best time to buy… Readers Digest is kind enough

to advise readers when it’s the best time to buy certain items. To save money on planned purchases, take a look at these upcoming deals. November generally brings deals on: Candy: Any candy that is Halloween themed is likely to be deeply discounted in November. For many bags of holiday-themed candy, once you open the outer bag, the holiday branding doesn’t even appear on the candy inside. Even if it does, the candy tastes just as good. Gadgets: Black Friday and Cyber Monday (which might last a full week) are great times to buy TVs, small appliances, MP3s, and other gadgetry. Free turkeys: Watch for grocery store offers that include a free turkey if you spend a certain amount. – Senior Wire©

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20 October/November, 2014  Senior Focus

Busting eye health myths: What’s fact, what’s fiction? Everyone has heard myths about what is and isn’t good for your eye health – from eating more carrots to limiting screen time. Unfortunately, many so-called facts are anything but factual, according to Dr. Ryan Nakamura, a VSP Vision Care optometrist. Here, he sorts fact from fiction. Myth: Reading in dim lighting will damage my eyes. Busted: It may seem hard to believe, but there is no evidence

that reading in dim light will cause long-term damage to your eyes. “Dim lighting can lead to eye strain, requiring your eyes to work harder and making them tire more quickly, but it’s only temporary,” says Nakamura. That said, if you have access to a well-lit room for reading, take advantage of it. Myth: The darker the lenses my sunglasses are, the better they will protect my eyes.

We’re with you every step of the way… Providing seniors and their families housing and care guidance

Determining the best housing and care options for seniors looking for more community or who are no longer safe at home can be overwhelming. Our complimentary service offers a hand-in-hand approach to help navigate this transition. Call or email for information… Frank Simons  206-228-1678 ~ fsimons@seniorcareconsult.com Juli Simons  425-876-2053 ~ jsimons@seniorcareconsult.com

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Busted: Not exactly. “Dark sunglass lenses may reduce eye discomfort for those who experience light sensitivity, but they do not provide additional protection from ultra-violet rays,” says Nakamura. More important than the darkness of the lenses is making sure the sunglasses have UVA and UVB protection – the only true defense against the sun’s harmful rays. Over time, exposure to UV rays can lead to cataracts, macular degeneration and, in some cases, even blindness. So whether you prefer lighter or darker lenses in your frames, sunglasses are a must-have yearround. Don’t forget to make sure the children in your life wear them too. Myth: Working many hours in front of a computer screen will change my glasses prescription. Busted: Working too long in front of the computer won’t change your prescription, but there are some impacts to consider. The blue light emitted from electronic devices can be damaging – impacting your sleep and possibly causing macular degeneration, which is the leading cause of blindness in adults. Also, using electronics for extended periods of time can result in digital eye strain. Symptoms of digital

eye strain include fatigue, headaches and neck pain. To help protect against digital eye strain and blue light exposure, consider using eyeglass lenses with blue light protection. Also remember the 20-20-20 rule: for every 20 minutes spent looking at your computer, TV or digital device, spend 20 seconds looking at something at least 20 feet away. Myth: If you don’t have obvious issues with your vision, you don’t need an annual eye exam. Busted: A comprehensive annual eye exam can protect far more than just vision. It can detect signs of serious health problems – including diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol – many times before physical symptoms are present. Some serious eye conditions have no immediately obvious signs or symptoms, such as glaucoma or macular degeneration, and take a comprehensive eye exam to detect. Regardless of visible symptoms, a comprehensive eye exam is a must every year, Nakamura recommends. Don’t just believe old wives’ tales when it comes to eye health. Arm yourself with the facts to better protect your family’s vision long term. – StatePoint

Tuesday afternoon at the movies

Clever cellphone cover

The Historic Everett Theatre plans to show a movie every Tuesday, 1 p.m., geared to the senior generation. Tickets are $5 each. Each month will feature a different theme. For example, October is Horrors Beyond Imagination Month. November will feature musicals and December will feature holiday shows. The theatre is located at 2911 Colby Ave., Everett. For more information including the movie schedule call 425-258-6766 or visit historiceveretttheatre.org

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It only takes a bit of imagination to come up with a cover that will not only protect your mobile phone, whether it’s a smart one or not, but also make it easier to find. Head to the children’s department in your nearby department store and check out the baby socks, suggests AARP. They’re inexpensive, stretchy and come in a variety of thicknesses that can protect your phone from falls and screen from scratches.

Learn about programs and services available to seniors. Scan the QR code, visit sssc.org or call Senior Information and Assistance at 425-513-1900.

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Senior Focus  October/November, 2014

U.S. unprepared to meet housing needs of an aging population Washington, D.C. & Cambridge, MA – America’s older population is in the midst of unprecedented growth, but the country is not prepared to meet the housing needs of this aging group, concludes a new report released by the Harvard Joint Center for Housing Studies and AARP Foundation. According to Housing America’s Older Adults – Meeting the Needs of An Aging Population, the number of adults in the U.S. aged 50 and over is expected to grow to 132 million by 2030, an increase of more than 70 percent since 2000. But housing that is affordable, physically accessible, well-located, and coordinated with supports and services is in too short supply. Housing is critical to quality of life for people of all ages, but especially for older adults. High housing costs currently force a third of adults 50 and over – including 37 percent of those 80 and over – to pay more than 30 percent of their income for homes that may

or may not fit their needs, forcing them to cut back on food, health care, and, for those 50-64, retirement savings. Much of the nation’s housing inventory also lacks basic accessibility features (such as no-step entries, extra-wide doorways, and lever-style door and faucet handles), preventing older persons with disabilities from living safely and comfortably in their homes. Additionally, with a majority of older adults aging in car-dependent suburban and rural locations, transportation and pedestrian infrastructure is generally ill-suited to those who aren’t able to drive, which can isolate them from friends and family. Finally, disconnects between housing programs and the health care system put many older adults with disabilities or long-term care needs at risk of premature institutionalization. “Recognizing the implications of this profound demographic shift and taking immediate steps to address these issues is vital to our

Don’t forget

70s, you’re senile. Yet at that age, you’ve acquired and use a better vocabulary, packed in years of knowledge and experience, and provided or seen solutions to problems many of those around you haven’t encountered. So don’t bow to the crowd’s consensus. You’re bridge, scrabble and crossword skills are probably much sharper than most of theirs. And you probably can still speak the two or three languages you’ve used through the years. If you know only one language, boost your brain power and learn a second one. To add muscle to her memory, a neighbor has taken up mahjongg and enjoys mastering the nuances of this ancient Asian game. Staying active, mingling with old and new friends, and exercise will help you confound those who will be shaking their heads in wonder about how you do it rather than worry about your sliding into senility. – Mature Life Features

Short attention spans, senior moments and other signals of senility are given quiet nods of heads of family and friends when they happen to you. But let’s look at the chronological reactions to such occurrences. If you get stuck on a name or date or memory in your 20s, your listeners just shake their heads and say you’re a bit scatterbrained anyway. When it occurs in your 30s, they attribute it to your busy schedule. In your 40s, they might say you have many more-important matters to attend to. When you reach your 50s, they ascribe it as having much on your mind. By the time you reach your 60s, they attribute it to getting old and heading over the hill. And in your Senior Information and Assistance Answers Questions – Explores Options

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national standard of living,” says Chris Herbert, acting managing director of the Harvard Joint Center for Housing Studies. He continues, “While it is ultimately up to individuals and their families to plan for future housing needs, it is also incumbent upon policy makers at all levels of government to see that affordable, appropriate housing, as well as supports for long-term aging in the community, are available for older adults across the income spectrum.” Of special concern as the older population in the U.S. continues to swell are babyboomers who are now in their 50s. With lower incomes, wealth, homeownership rates, and more debt than generations before them, members of this age group may be unable to cover the costs of appropriate housing or long-term care in their retirement years. Indeed, while a majority of people over 45 would like to stay in their current residences as long as possible, estimates indicate that 70 percent of those who reach the age of 65 will eventually need some form of long-term care. In this regard, older homeowners are in a better position than older renters when they retire. The typical homeowner age 65 and

over has enough wealth to cover the costs of in-home assistance for about nine years or assisted living for six-and-a-half years. The typical renter, however, can only afford two months of these supports. “As Americans age, the need for safe and affordable housing options becomes even more critical,” says Lisa Marsh Ryerson, President of the AARP Foundation. “High housing costs, aging homes, and costly repairs can greatly impact those with limited incomes. “The goal in our support of this report is to address the most critical needs of these households and it is AARP Foundation’s aim to provide the tools and resources to help them meet these needs now and in the future.” The Harvard Joint Center for Housing Studies advances understanding of housing issues and informs policy. For more information visit jchs.harvard.edu AARP Foundation is working to win back opportunity for struggling Americans 50+ by being a force for change on the most serious issues they face today: housing, hunger, income and isolation. AARP Foundation is AARP’s affiliated charity. Learn more at aarpfoundation.org.

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22 October/November, 2014  Senior Focus

Hundreds of people attended opening day of the B & M Shopping Center

photo courtesy of Jack O’Donnell

B & M Shopping Center … a ‘modern miracle’ Perspective on the Past By Jack O’Donnell Today, driving by the Claremont Shopping Center on Evergreen Way in not-so-far-southanymore Everett is no big deal. But when the B & M Shopping Center opened on April 19, 1951, it was a big deal. Located a scant two blocks from Everett’s south city limits at 52nd St., it was a new phenomenon here, and a harbinger of what was to come in marketing.

Up to this time supermarkets were much smaller and most of them were located in downtown Everett. The only exception was the large Safeway store that opened earlier that month on the 3700 block of Broadway. As early as 1946, plans were being made to transform the fields of Scotch broom along Highway 99 S. (later named Evergreen Way). A proposal that summer, designed by famed Northwest theater architect B. Marcus Priteca, called for a model theater, at least one supermarket and room for eight or nine stores. However, it would be another five years for the realization of any such project.

Come for the view, stay for the friendships

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Provides naturopathic medicine to seniors and all ages. Treatments may include dietary and lifestyle counseling and education, handson physical therapies, and herbal and nutritional supplements with products offered free of charge by Bastyr University. Wednesdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Call for an appt. ENHANCE WELLNESS PROGRAM

Under the guidance of a nurse and social worker, design an individual wellness plan and have your progress measured over six months. A wonderful way to take control of your health. Call for an appt. or drop in any weekday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Funded by the Verdant Health Commission.  Fitness, yoga, tai chi  Trips, classes, games  Nutritious lunches  Music groups  Computer lab  Coffee bar  Facility rentals  Great Thrift Store Stop by or call for more information about activities and services offered at the Edmonds Senior Center 220 Railroad Ave., Edmonds  425-774-5555 or visit http://edmondssc.org

R.W. (Bob) Boggs and M.F. (Mel) McLean already had three supermarkets. They were located at 2615 Colby Ave., at Hewitt Ave. and Broadway (in the old Hausmann Market building) and at 1102 State Ave. in Marysville. But this “modern miracle” would be unlike any of those. Built for a half million dollars it claimed to be the largest of its kind in the West, covering 45,000 square feet divided into several departments. The “drugrocery;” self-service meat, poultry and fish; floral; aquarium; and budget dinette restaurant were but a few. A 70-foot refrigeration unit increased the amount of fresh-wrapped produce on hand. Fluorescent lighting kept the store bright. Arne Jensen murals adorned the walls. Background music was piped throughout the center. Other amenities included public telephones and restrooms. What impressed this wide-eyed six-year-old most were the “Mag-

ic-Carpet” doors, which lived up to their name. When a customer stepped on the door mat, the door automatically opened, and then automatically closed. The “modern as the minute” store advertised everyday low prices, courtesy and convenience. One hundred people (including those in the north section occupied by Claremont Hardware) operated the center, which was open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., seven days a week. Two hundred self-service baskets were available to enter 10 cashier booths, none encumbered with a turnstile. A pharmacist was on duty at all times. Acres of asphalt-free parking could accommodate 500 cars. The four-day opening ceremony included a kiddie-carnival replete with merry-go-round, miniature cars and swings; a variety act by the 25th Air Division at Silver Lake, a tribute to men and women in the Armed Forces; and more. Prudence Penny, national celebrity chef, served as hostess. Other ambassadors of good – identifiable by wearing corsages and boutonnieres – were also on hand. It all culminated with a “riot of fun” at an auction where bidders purchased prize items with “Auction Bucks” as the only legal tender. The Auction Bucks were given out at the B & M stores to purchasers. They could also be used for carnival rides. It was also a time when most of the center’s employees not only worked in Everett, but lived here too. Both Boggs and McLean lived in Everett. So did Bob Rudge, general manager. Nearly all of their employees lived in Everett or Pinehurst, which at that time was CONTINUED ON PAGE 23

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outside the city limits. Most of the center was built with Everett labor by Everett companies. It was erected by Solie (Hans) and Son (Gene). City Building Inspector Chris Solie (father and brother) gave the project official approval. Goldfinch Brothers supplied the glass, paint and wallpaper. Orville Holmstad did the plumbing and Rogers Electric did the power and lighting. W.W. Wells Millwork and Building Supply built the cabinets. Keith Neon created the largest display board in the county. The parking lot was paved by Associated Sand and Gravel. Dan Duryee arranged the real estate deal. Publicity was carried out by the Everett Daily Herald and Everett radio station KRKO. Everett Bottling Co. and Puget Sound Fish Co. products were sold along with other products from the area. Within a couple years, the center grew to include a clothing and shoe store, beauty salon, barbershop, jewelry store, drapery shop, shoe service, bakery, television center, dentist, optometrist, launderette and pet shop. Eventually it extended all the way north to Wilmington Ave. and south to 50th St. For much of its time there were about 20 businesses. One business, the Alpine Cafeteria, which also had restaurants in Seattle, Tacoma and Bellingham, even built a second story for a banquet room. B & M went on to build similar centers in north Marysville and Frontier Village near Lake Stevens, as well as another supermarket at Everett Ave. and McDougall St., and operated many years before selling out. The center eventually was renamed Claremont for the surrounding neighborhood, and the store was a Thriftway and Olson’s before becoming QFC today. Within a decade in Everett, Safeway built two more supermarkets, Tradewell built two and Albertsons one. None was as large as the B & M. Part of the old center, including the store and Alpine Cafeteria, was torn down and rebuilt. Buildings have come and gone on the parking lot, but the original strip mall still serves the area. Besides QFC, today’s tenants are Ace Hardware (where part of the old green sidewalk is still intact), Clubhouse Bar & Grill, T-Mobile, Wild Birds Unlimited, Angel Hair Nails, Starbucks, General Nutrition Center, Papa Murphy’s Pizza, Bella Cleaners, Teriyaki Zone, Everett 9-11 Driving School and License Testing and Chase Bank. While innovative when the strip mall opened over 60 years ago, it has become the norm for suburban shopping in the country today.

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24 October/November, 2014  Senior Focus

Good hydration essential to keep body functioning well Meal Times All the Nutrition News You can Use

Rajani Ravi for

Senior Services of Snohomish County

Water is an important nutrient which oftentimes gets less attention than it actually deserves. Several studies have addressed the importance of water and revealed that good hydration is essential to keep our body function well. Water helps to regulate body temperature, transport waste and oxygen, and retain the shape of cells. It also helps to lubricate the joints and serves as a solvent to dissolve minerals and other nutrients for the body to access. Interestingly, 55-75 percent of our body is made up of water but our body does not have a place to store it. We lose water daily and we have to replenish it to operate and perform efficiently. When the body does not get adequate fluid from food and drinks, we become dehydrated. Dehydration can be a serious problem if it is not taken care of. It is, however, Rajani Ravi is a dietetic intern from Cedar Crest College. For in-

formation about Senior Nutrition, call 425-347-1229 or 800-824-2183.

very easy to prevent dehydration.

How do we lose water?

We lose water daily by the excretion of urine and sweat, and by breathing. During hot or humid weather, water loss is enhanced due to an increase in sweating. The loss of water becomes more critical for seniors since the ability to feel thirst decreases and some may not notice it. The risk for dehydration increases if you: have multiple health issues or decreased mental ability and may not notice signs of thirst or dehydration take certain medications like blood pressure pills or water pills (diuretic pills) which increase urination live alone and/or in a residential facility. You may not remember to drink enough fluid have uncontrolled diabetes which can lead to excess urination have a fever, diarrhea and/ or vomiting, which leads to high body temperature and increased rate of fluid loss. If dehydration is not treated, it could be fatal. Let’s see how we can maintain normal level of fluid in our body. On a regular basis, our nerves sense the fluid level in the body and send messages to three organs, the kidneys, salivary and sweat glands. These organs take

OCTOBER MENU Fri: Tossed salad, meatloaf, mashed potato w/gravy, brussels sprouts, fresh Weds: Pea salad, baked fish, winter fruit. squash, spinach, mixed fruit. Thurs: Tossed salad, turkey w/mush- October 20 – 24 room gravy on rice, peas & carrots, Mon: Tossed salad, cheese pizza w/ fresh fruit. veggies, peaches, pudding. Fri: Roast pork w/sweet & sour red Tues: Tossed salad, swedish meatballs cabbage, stuffing, green beans, fruit. on noodles, spinach, fruit cocktail.

A person who is dehydrated can experience one or all of the following symptoms: Thirst Dryness of mouth and tongue Dark colored urine or decreased urine Constipation or hard stool Weakness or fatigue corrective measures and bring fluid level to its normal level.

How to achieve fluid balance

When a person is thirsty, not only does he/she drink more fluid, the kidneys start to retain water and put out less urine. This action helps the body maintain a normal water level. Frequently during aging, the body starts to lose muscle and gain fat. Muscle holds on to water but fat does not, so as a person ages his/her water body decreases. Our body tells us that we need more water (see box above). Fluid adequacy is attained by drinking enough fluid and eating sufficient fruits and vegetables. It seems easy to stay hydrated but may be challenging at times. Older adults can avoid dehydration by consuming plenty of fruits, vegetables and fluids each day. Water needs may be different for those with kidney disease, congestive heart failure or who take certain medications. Clarify with your doctor or registered dietitian on amount of water that is appropriate for you. Here are some foods that have a high percentage water content. 100%: Water 90 – 99%: Fat-free milk, cantaloupe, strawberries, watermelon, lettuce, cabbage, celery, spinach, pickles, squash (cooked) 80 – 89%: Fruit juice, yogurt,

October 1 - 3

October 6 - 10 Mon: Tossed salad, manicotti w/three cheeses & marinara sauce, green peas, fresh fruit. Tues: Oktoberfest. Bratwurst w/sauerkraut & peppers on roll, bavarian potato salad, apple strudel. Weds: Carrot salad, french dip, potato wedges, fruited gelatin. Thurs: Coleslaw vinaigrette, sweet & sour chicken w/stir fry vegetables, brown rice, mandarin oranges. Fri: Tossed salad, grilled tuna melt, pasta salad, fresh fruit.

October 13 – 17 Mon: Citrus salad, spanish omelet, potatoes o’brien, pudding. Tues: Dilled cucumber salad, baked sole almondine, rice pilaf, brussels sprouts, pineapple. Weds: Tossed salad, baked chicken thigh w/gravy, roasted sweet potatoes, broccoli, pears. Thurs: Spinach salad, grilled turkey & cheese sandwich, chip, fresh fruit.

Weds: Vegetable soup, fish burger on whole wheat bun w/lettuce & tomato, pears. Thurs: Broccoli salad, turkey pot roast, mashed potato w/gravy, carrots, fresh fruit. Fri: Coleslaw vinaigrette, mandarin chicken, barley rice, vegetable, mandarin oranges.

October 27 – 31 Mon: Hearty lentil soup, egg salad sandwich on wheat bread w/lettuce, apricots, brownie. Tues: Fruit salad, chicken parmesan on spaghetti w/sauce, green beans, garlic bread stick, sherbet. Weds: Taco salad w/beef, cheese & rancho beans on chips w/salsa & sour cream, mandarin oranges, flan. Thurs: Hot turkey sandwich, mashed potato w/gravy, peas & carrots, fresh fruit. Fri: Halloween. Tossed salad, meatballs & spaghetti, zucchini, garlic bread stick, pumpkin fruit bar.

Dry skin Dizziness, increased heart rate Restlessness and confusion Nausea and vomiting Weight loss

apples, grapes, oranges, pineapple, pears, carrots, broccoli (cooked) 70 – 79%: Bananas, avocados, cottage cheese, ricotta cheese, baked potato, corn (cooked), shrimp

Simple tips to avoid water loss

Bring water when going out during hot weather Try to stay hydrated during any kind/level of physical activity by drinking a small amount of water in between your exercise session Avoid outdoor exercise during hot climate Hot temperature increases sweating, which in turn increases water loss Reduce or restrict alcohol intake during hot weather Alcohol increases water loss and prevents a person from recognizing the early signs of dehydration Wear light colored, loose fitting cotton clothes which make skin breathe and sweat less CONTINUED ON PAGE 25

Meal site menu – what you need to know Meal includes 1% milk, roll or bread and margarine. Fresh produce is subject to availability. Substitutions may be made without notice. Suggested meal donation is $3 ($6 for non-eligible person). For information, call Senior Nutrition, 425-347-1229 or 800-824-2183.

NOVEMBER MENU November 3 – 7

Tues: Cucumber salad, chicken primavera on penne, vegetable, applesauce. Weds: Carrot salad, french dip, potato wedges, fruited gelatin. Thurs: Coleslaw vinaigrette, sweet & sour chicken w/stir fry vegetables, brown rice, mandarin oranges. Fri: Tossed salad, grilled tuna melt, pasta salad, fresh fruit.

Mon: Tossed salad, vegetable lasagna, vegetable, applesauce Tues: Coleslaw, fish & chips, tropical fruit. Weds: Broccoli salad, chicken ala king on baked potato, beets, fruit. Thurs: Tossed salad, salisbury steak, mashed potato w/gravy, parslied carrots, fresh fruit. Fri: Coleslaw, grilled chicken burger November 24 – 28 on wheat bun w/lettuce & tomato, Mon: Citrus salad, spanish omelet, pasta salad, apricots. potatoes o’brien, pudding. Tues: Dilled cucumber salad, baked November 10 - 14 sole almondine, rice pilaf, brussels Mon: Tossed salad, chili w/green on- sprouts, pineapple. ion & shredded cheese, tortilla chips, Weds: Tossed salad, baked chicken pineapple, pudding. thigh w/gravy, roasted sweet potatoes, Tues: Closed for Veterans’ Day. broccoli, pears. Weds: Pea salad, baked fish, winter Thurs: Closed for Holiday. squash, spinach, mixed fruit. Fri: Closed for Holiday. Thurs: Tossed salad, turkey w/mushroom gravy on rice, peas & carrots, Thanksgiving Dinner fresh fruit. Fri: Roast pork w/sweet & sour cab- Tossed green salad w/dressing, roast bage, stuffing, green beans, fresh fruit. turkey w/gravy & cranberry sauce, old fashioned stuffing, mashed potato, vegetable blend, dinner roll, pumpkin November 17 – 21 pie w/topping. Check with your local Mon: Tossed salad, manicotti w/3 senior center for date the dinner will cheeses & marinara sauce, green peas, be served. fresh fruit.

Senior Focus  October/November, 2014

Pear-Ginger Infused Water 1/2 medium size pear, sliced 10 thin slices fresh ginger 4 cups of fresh water Add ginger to a jar or container. Slightly crush ginger slices with a spoon or a fork to release the flavor. Add pear slices and four cups of water. Put in refrigerator overnight. Shake gently to mix the flavors and enjoy.

HYDRATION CONTINUED FROM PAGE 24

Following are some tasty ways to increase the nutritive value of your drinking water: Add ice cubes made up of fresh fruit juice to your drinking water to convert a natural vitamin water Add herbs like mint, rosemary and sage to make your water flavorful Add lime or berries to make it a vitamin C drink Add cucumber to prepare a refreshing drink. Water is absolutely an important nutrient needed for the body to function well and we lose water every day for various reasons. Since the body doesn’t have a storage area for water, it is essential to replenish the fluid level. Seniors are more susceptible to dehydration and it is more challenging for those with other medical and health issues. Pay attention to the signs and symptoms to avoid dehydration. And remember, prevention is always better than treatment!

Basic Food program stretches food $$$ Are you struggling to make your food budget last through the month? You might qualify for Basic Food (formerly called food stamps) if your monthly gross income is at or below $1,945 (one person); $2,622 (two people). Each additional person, add $677. Benefits range from $15 to $189 per month. Basic Food benefits can be used to buy food items at participating grocery stores and to pay for Meals on Wheels and Senior Dining meals served at local senior centers. For information or help completing an application call the Senior Nutrition at 425-347-1229 or send an e-mail to basicfood@sssc. org and a Senior Nutrition representative will contact you. Basic Food is available to all regardless of race, color, sex, age, handicap, religion or political belief.

Have a question about services for seniors? Call…

Senior Information and Assistance Answers Questions – Explores Options

425.513.1900 or 800.422.2024 www.sssc.org

Seniors’ marketers missing the mark By Cecil Scaglione If you don’t ask, you don’t get. And that applies to the senior discount. However, the swelling ranks of oldsters might force sellers to become more aware of the sales opportunities that exist among the elderly. And that could spread the discounts over more goods and services. While magazine, newspaper, social-media, television, billboards and you-name-it ads display tousled hair males with twoday-old beards and slim-legged females in almost-non-existent skirts designed to lure dollars out of the generation emerging into adulthood, marketers are missing a major lucrative mark. Older adults have been relegated to niche markets that, by definition, are smaller and precisely defined compared with mass-marketing processes. There are more than 23 million seniors and more than 80 million baby boomers in the senior consumer market, according to Zillner, which provides research, strategic and marketing services to brands targeting consumers 50 years and older. That’s a large “niche.” And it’s not as defined as most would be led to believe. Annual spending by this phalanx is estimated at $3.1 trillion across all industries, except health care, which is estimated at

an additional $1.6 trillion. That’s an estimated $4.7 trillion being spent by seniors. So far, marketers have pretty well overlooked them, defaulting to conventional wisdom that young adults experience more life changes and make more brand choices than their older counterparts. This is a complete disconnect from market realities, said Zillner president Patti Aspenleiter. People 50-plus actually experience more life-stage changes than any other cohort. This includes second careers, retirement, parenting children and teens, divorce, remarriage, widowhood, grandparenting, empty-nesting, moving, and caregiving. Many of these changes are often abrupt and create a need for products and services that were not been part of the consumer’s purview previously. Two senior consumers of the same age may

be experiencing very different life stages, creating complexity for advertisers and sales forces to effectively reach and communicate with these prospects. As adults age, they become more individualized and comfortable in their own skin – “I’m more me as I get older.” This means marketing messages must be more targeted and personalized. As boomers enter the senior market, they are making it more culturally and racially diverse than any previous older generation. They include the first generation of Asians and Hispanics raised by foreign-born parents. So you might start looking for products and services designed to meet your needs that accommodate your lifestyle as marketers become more aware of prospective sales to be made to seniors. And don’t forget to ask for the senior discount. Mature Life Features

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26 October/November, 2014  Senior Focus

From the Heart …

A daughter’s connection with a father’s voice from the past By Carole Webb Slater I don’t remember my father’s voice. He died when I was seven years old. I knew about him, from glossy black and white photographs and family stories, but I didn’t “know” him until my mother died 30 years later. Then I heard the voice of my father and felt his presence. It started with a plain, bulky, wooden cedar trunk belonging to my mother that had been in the background of my memory for as long as I could remember. This trunk was not an accessible piece of furniture around the house but was kept in the back of closets and out of the way. I knew intuitively the chest was meant for me and sensed it held an important connection to my mother’s life and to mine. When I opened the chest, I soon realized it was filled with Mom’s memories. There was her 1941 East High School annual, an autograph book filled with names and verses from old friends, handstitched towels, bronzed baby shoes, cloth soldier dolls that belonged to my brothers, and Mary Ann, my favorite doll. At the bottom of the chest I found three cardboard shoe boxes tied with ribbons that were filled

with letters to Evelyn Groves/ Webb, postmarked in the 1940s. They were love letters from my father that my mother had kept safely concealed through eight moves and for over three decades. His words of love followed my mother throughout her adult life and now his words would fill the void in my heart. Dana “Cobby” Webb’s journey began in 1942 when he traded in his college football uniform to join the Army Air Corps. He was 19 years old and one of many young men who postponed their lives to fight for the United States and free world during World War II. Cobby loved speed, and with determination and drive he became a P-51 Mustang fighter pilot at 21, flying escort and strafing missions over France and Germany during the latter months of the war in Europe. It seemed fitting that Cobby would also take a chance with Evelyn, a young woman he met by chance in Nashville at a USO dance. After dating a few times, Cobby was transferred to an air base in Florida and this brief romance should have ended. In those days, public phones were available on the base if you had change in your pocket and

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Dana “Cobby” Webb and Evelyn Groves/Webb. Their letters, expressing their values and feelings about life, give connection to daughter

were willing to wait with other cadets in long lines for brief conversations. Weekend visits were an option but not easily accomplished. Cobby had a flying schedule that relied on good weather conditions and that meant his weekends might be spent in the air. In addition, a visit to Florida was costly and would require that Evelyn travel on a train for two days, one way, and that seemed unlikely after dating Cobby such a short time. But Cobby had fallen in love and was determined to make Evelyn his wife, so these two young people shared stories, personal values, and feelings about life, war, and each other through words expressed on paper. They got to know each other through their letters. If there were questions that required an answer, Evelyn or Cobby would have to be patient and wait a week or two for a reply when the next letter was delivered. Their communication was deliberate and their expressions heartfelt. Through their correspondence, they developed a love for one another that connected their hearts together. Over the next year, they saw each other twice and on her last visit, while waiting on the platform for the Nashville-bound train to take her home, Cobby convinced Evelyn to marry him and they eloped that night.

For me, finding my father’s voice through these letters connected my heart to his. His deep devotion and love for my mother made my heart swell. I could feel his smiles, delight in his stories, share his family values, and be profoundly grateful to know my father through his written words. I did not want the letters to end. It was a beautiful love story. My father’s letters stayed in my closet for over 20 years, read only by my family and a few close friends. I realized several years ago that Cobby’s story was an important one to be shared. We live in a world filled with perpetual wars and destruction, easy access to overwhelming amounts of information, family values that are struggling to stay centered, and extreme political ideology that threatens to divide the United States into multiple pieces of varying shades of blue and red. Looking back at life during World War II reminds us all of our history and the value of connecting our past with our future. Although World War II was a time of horror, loss, and terrible turmoil, it was also a time when love, respect, responsibility, duty, helping one another, honor, and patriotism were important values lived out daily. Somehow, in the worst of times, our country and its people managed to do the impossible. Americans at home did without,

CONNECT WITH OTHERS STAY ACTIVE ENJOY LIFE The YMCA of Snohomish County offers a variety of programs and activities specifically for older adults. From aerobics to yoga, water exercise or special trips, you are sure to find many enjoyable opportunities to connect with others. There’s a Y near you: Everett Marysville Mill Creek Monroe Mukilteo

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CONTINUED ON PAGE 27

Senior Focus  October/November, 2014

Generic drugs offer big savings Dear …

Savvy Senior By Jim Miller

Are brand-name medications better than generic, and if not, why is there such a price difference? Also, how can I find out which medicines are available in generic form. – Leery Senior Dear Leery, No. Brand-name medications are not better, safer or more effective than their generic alternative because they’re virtually the same. To gain approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), generic drugs are required

CONNECTIONS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 26

grew their own “victory gardens” to feed their families, led volunteer drives in their communities, helped and supported their neighbors, supported their government, and transformed businesses overnight into factories focused on building military ships, planes, tanks, and equipment needed in a war that had to be won. It was a time when Americans were bound

to have the same active ingredient, strength, dosage form and route of administration as their brand-name counterpart. The generic manufacturer must also demonstrate that people absorb the drug at the same rate. The only difference between a brand-name drug and its generic is the name (generics are usually called by their chemical name), shape and color of the drug (U.S. trademark laws don’t allow generics to look exactly like the their brand-name counterparts) and price. Generic drugs are often 10 to 30 percent cheaper when they first become available, but by the end of the first year the price can drop in half. By the second and third year, it can drop 70 to 90 percent. together by a common purpose and lived in the “united” states of America. To recall those shared values that made our country great just might make a difference as we look forward to the future. My book, Letters from the Heart 19431946, is available through your favorite bookstore. For further information visit p-51lettersfromtheheart.com.

–Senior Wire©

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Cost difference

The reason generic drugs are so much cheaper is because their manufacturers don’t have the hefty start-up costs that the original creators of the drug do. When a pharmaceutical company creates a new drug, it spends millions of dollars on the research, development and clinical testing phase. Then, if it gets FDA approval, it has to turn around and spend even more money to market the drug to the healthcare industry and the public. The total cost can rise into the hundreds of millions by the time the drug is in the hands of consumers. In an effort to recoup their investment, the brand-name drug makers charge a premium price, and are given a 20-year patent protection, which means that no other company can make or sell the drug during that period of time. After the 20 years are up, however, other companies can apply to the FDA to sell generic versions. But because generic manufacturers don’t have the same research, development and marketing costs, they can sell their product much cheaper. Also, once generic drugs are approved, there’s greater com-

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Send your questions to: Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070, or visit SavvySenior.org. Jim Miller the author of The Savvy Senior book.

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You should also know that in 2014 and 2015, patents on a wide variety of popular brand-name drugs will expire and become available in generic, including Celebrex, Copaxone, Actonel, Nexium, Exforge, Cymbalta, Lunesta, Avodart, Abilify, Evista, Maxalt, Maxalt MPT, Micardis, Micardis HCT, Reneagel, Twynata and Xeloda. For more information, Community Catalyst, a national, nonprofit consumer advocacy organization, provides a list on its website of the top 50 brand-name drugs and the dates they should become available as generics. To find the list visit communitycatalyst.org, and type Drugs Going Generic 2014 – 2015 in their search bar. You can also find out if a brandname drug has a generic alternative by simply asking your doctor or pharmacist. Or, visit GoodRX. com, a web tool that provides prices on brand-name drugs and their generic alternatives (if available) at virtually every pharmacy in the U.S. so you can find the best deals in your area.

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28 October/November, 2014  Senior Focus

The Worst That Can Happen Need for volunteers never ends By Saralee Perel “If you imagine the worst case scenario and it happens, you lived it twice,” says Michael J. Fox. Do I need to spend my days imagining something awful happening to my husband Bob, or to me? A car accident? A heart attack? A house fire? If, God forbid, any of these things were to happen, must I go through the agony of them before they even occur, if in fact they ever do? No. Although I’ve recently written about my little cat, Jordy, he’s had another remarkable experience in his short life. A few months ago, I wrote that when Jordy was a kitten, his back leg was destroyed. Given no medical care, someone had left him to suffer. Bob and I don’t know the person who did this to him, nor how it happened. Thank God we found and adopted him. After his leg was amputated, he was a happy kitten. Now he slips, slides, falls and bounces right back up, purring the whole time. But last week, Bob and I found Jordy crying in pain, unable to get up. Too early in the morning to see our regular vet, we took him to an emergency clinic. Although the doctor was great, she was unable to help him. When I was a practicing psy-

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chotherapist, I learned that traumas, particularly deaths, bring up older deaths with nearly the same intensity as if they had just happened. Helplessly watching Jordy cry, I relived the last day of the life of my cat, Eddie. Therefore, instead of imagining the worst case scenario in the future and living through it twice, I’m reliving the worst case scenario of the past. Two years ago, when Bob brought Eddie’s body home from an emergency clinic, he gently placed him, still warm, in my arms. I cradled him and sang to him for one last time. I am only hurting myself by reliving that day again and again. Only recently have I allowed myself to relive the good times, the funny times, like Eddie’s famous glare, his eyes half shut in an intense stare, looking for anything that had been added to the room or moved one inch so that he could pounce on it and smash it to smithereens. I can choose what to think. And now I have a choice with Jordy. I can imagine the worst case scenario or not. Jordy’s day turned out gloriously. Our regular vet quickly diagnosed the problem as an injury to the hip where the leg had been amputated. That very afternoon, with no pain and no crying, Jordy happily joined his family as if nothing had ever happened. Jordy sleeps between Bob’s knees. Bob doesn’t move all night because heaven forbid he moves the cat. That night, Jordy slept soundly while Bob blissfully groaned in discomfort. Jordy wasn’t dreaming about whatever bad thing might come his way. Twitching lightly, he was probably dreaming about the chipmunk he loves to watch from the window. I’ll always learn my most important lessons from my cat. Award-winning nationally syndicated columnist, Saralee Perel, can be reached at sperel@saraleeperel.com or via her website: saraleeperel.com.

Working for your security, independence and peace of mind

Volunteer Connections By John McAlpine

RSVP Volunteer Recruiter

RSVP exists to help adults 55+ find fulfillment in volunteer work and will match your lifetime of skills and experience to the organization of your choice. Sponsored by Catholic Community Services, RSVP is America’s largest volunteer network for persons over 55 and the only agency where the collective contribution of senior volunteers is recorded. Volunteer opportunities exist all over Snohomish County. No matter where you live, we can probably match you with a job.

Tutors

RSVP is looking for people who want to help students improve in the classroom. We have several opportunities. You can help firstand second-graders with reading; middle-school students prepare for high school (and beyond); students in a homeless situation; adults learning English as a second language; and children after school at the Boys and Girls Club. You can volunteer once a day, a week or a month, it’s up to you.

Food Banks

I write about food banks quite a bit because they never have enough help. You can work behind the scenes unloading the trucks and stocking the shelves. You can package bulk food items and keep the food bank tidy. There are also opportunities to work with clients and help them select food. Some food banks use drivers to go out into the community and pick up food. No matter where you live, a food bank near you needs help.

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Senior Focus  October/November, 2014

Garden box a hit with residents

Dennis Smith (L), President and CEO of United Way of Snohomish County, Ralph Quass (C) and Andrew Ballard (R), Board Chair of United Way. Ralph was presented with the Roger Bouck Award during Volunteer Appreciation Night that is organized by United Way and the Everett AquaSox.

Ralph Quass receives prestigious award At 80 years young, long-time Snohomish County resident and volunteer Ralph Quaas received one of United Way of Snohomish County’s most prestigious volunteer awards and threw out the first pitch at the August 19 Everett AquaSox game. “I’ve been volunteering since I was 10 years old,” says Ralph. “I’ve received so much in my life. Volunteering is my way to give back.” The award Ralph received – the 2014 Roger Bouck Award for Volunteerism in Action – was named after his good friend and fellow long-time volunteer Roger Bouck. Ralph is a mainstay at Everett Rotary, where he’s a 50-year member with perfect attendance. He’s also an active volunteer with the Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP), Carl Gipson Senior Center, and nearly one dozen other organizations throughout the county. As a member of United Way’s Community Matters Vision Council, he is active with public policy, an English Language Learners initiative and Project Homeless Connect. Volunteer Appreciation Night, organized by United Way and the Everett AquaSox, honors the work of volunteers from throughout Snohomish County with free tickets to the game. “Snohomish County has some of the most dedicated volunteers in the state. This annual event is our way of saying thank you,” said Dennis G. Smith, president and CEO of United Way. When it came time to throw out the first pitch, Ralph was ready. “I’ve been practicing with rocks in my backyard!” he said. The crowd cheered when his pitch easily

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made it to home plate. The Roger Bouck Award for Volunteerism in Action recognizes an individual or organization that shows strong support for volunteerism. The Award is named for Roger Bouck, a tireless volunteer with United Way of Snohomish County, Rotary International and the Boeing Bluebills. Bouck passed away in 2009. For information about United Way of Snohomish County, visit uwsc.org.

This past June, local Girl Scout Ambassador, Hannah Willard, built and installed a raised garden bed at Senior Services’ Pepperwood Apartment building. Willard graduated from Everett High School in June and is a member of Girl Scout Troop 40043 in north Everett. The Girl Scout Gold Award is the most prestigious award in all of Girl Scouts. It is only open to girls in high school. Currently, only five to six percent of eligible Girl Scouts earn the Gold Award annually. It requires the prerequisites of completing the Girl Scout Silver award and a Girl Scout Journey, which allows girls to discover their special skills and talents, connecting with others, and completing a service project that will have lasting effects in the community. The proj-

ect is required to have 80 hours of service. Willard decided to build the raised garden bed to better the lives of residents living in the Pepperwood Apartments, a low income senior apartment building. With this bed, residents have an activity to fill free time that involves being social and active. While she was building the box, some of the residents came out to learn what she was doing and immediately claimed an area of the garden bed. Since the bed was built, many types of vegetables and flowers have been planted and maintained by the residents. Upon approval from Girl Scouts of Western Washington, Willard will receive her Gold Award. She is currently a freshman at Washington State University.

Don’t wait until it’s too late… Many people think about writing their story… but they never do it. It’s your life….your legacy.

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Chance encounter can change a life The BookNook Settle in and Enjoy

By Bonnie Gerken Meeting someone new can change your life. A blind date may lead to marriage, and chatting with a stranger while waiting in line may start a lifetime friendship or open the door to a new job. What a difference a moment can make. The possibilities are endless if you are receptive. Sometimes the encounters are not so positive, but still they are opportunities to learn and grow. These stories hinge on an unexpected meeting that sets into motion a myriad of changes.

How It All Began by Penelope Lively

When Charlotte is mugged, events are set in motion that affect the lives of people near and dear to her, as well as of folks she will never meet. Affairs, marriages, jobs, hopes and dreams are all in for a wild ride.

A Lady Cyclist’s Guide to Kashgar by Suzanne Joinson

Frieda receives a letter informing her that she is listed as next of kin to someone she doesn’t know, so she sets out to find the connection. The story is told in alternating chapters of Frieda’s life in present day London and the diary

Medical research 101 Congress is taking notice of the need to address the health problems of older adults, such as Alzheimer’s. The House Energy and Commerce Committee’s Health Subcommittee, has begun a series of hearings around the country to find ways to move from research to cures for a variety of illnesses as it undertakes its 21st Century Cures initiative. This program, still continuing, has led to meetings that bring together a broad-based cross-section of government officials, scientists, inventors, and philanthropists, among others, to find solutions to

entries of Eva, who travelled to Eastern Turkestan with her sister as a missionary in 1923.

The Time in Between by Maria Duenas

Sira steps into a shop to buy a typewriter and meets a man who will change her life. A story of love, heartbreak, and spies set in Spain, Morocco and Portugal during the 1930s and 1940s.

The Mockingbird Next Door by Marja Mills

When the author knocked on Harper Lee’s front door in 2001 to ask for an interview, little did she expect the answer would be “yes.” Even more surprising was her friendship with Harper and her sister Alice that grew over the years. Here is a peek at the life of the reticent author of To Kill a Mockingbird.

Hello Goodbye Hello

by Craig Brown This compilation describes 101 remarkable, real meetings, and it is filled with juicy gossip and intriguing combinations, beginning and ending with Adolf Hitler. Hitler met Baron Howard de Walden, the Baron met Rudyard Kipling, Kipling met Mark Twain, Twain met Helen Keller, Keller met Martha Graham, and on it goes through meetings between a myriad of the rich, famous, and infamous people of the 20th Century. Oh, to be a fly on the wall. the illnesses of aging. In stating its mission, the Committee noted that while “health care innovation is happening at lightening speed” the federal government’s response is “in many ways the relic of another era.” For the first time, the House is taking a comprehensive look at everything in the area of health care, “from the discovery of clues in basic science, to streamlining the drug and device development process, to unleashing the power of digital medicine and social media at the treatment delivery phase.” For information visit energy commerce.housegov/cures. – CMK

Senior Focus  October/November, 2014

Where are They Now?

Meredith Baxter & Michael Gross By Marshall Kaplan America’s favorite TV mom and dad are both still in the public eye – one more on a professional level; the other more on a personal level. Meredith Baxter was born on June 21, 1947 in South Pasadena, California. She graduated from Hollywood High School where she joined the drama class. She also attended Interlochen Center for the Arts as a voice major. Baxter got her first big break in television starring opposite David Birney on the show, Bridget Loves Birney. The show lasted one season, yet Baxter’s marriage to her co-star in 1974 lasted 15 years until 1989. Baxter’s next hit was as Nancy Maitland in the drama, Family (1976 until 1980). For this role, she was nominated for two Emmy Awards. In 1982, Baxter was cast as Elyse Keaton opposite Michael Gross as Steven Keaton on Family Ties. The couple played former hippie, liberal, flower children of the 1960s who were trying to be somewhat conservative parents to three children in the 1980s. The show was a hit and made a household name out of Michael J. Fox. The series lasted seven seasons. During this time, Baxter earned additional critical acclaim and Emmy nominations for various made-for-TV movies she starred in. In 1994, Baxter won a Daytime Emmy Award for her role as a sin-

gle lesbian mother raising a son. Who was to know that this role was to foreshadow her own life when, with the 2009 release of her memoir, Untitled, Baxter came out openly as a lesbian – only realizing this after wondering why she had three failed marriages. Privately, she first came out to her stepfather, “I told him, ‘I’m dating women.’ And he said ‘Huh. So am I.’ And that was it.” Today, Baxter’s spouse since December 2013 is Nancy Locke. A cancer survivor since 1999, Baxter uses her celebrity status towards being an advocate for cancer treatment and raising funds for research. Michael Gross was born on June 21, 1947 (yes, the same date and year as Baxter!) in Chicago, Illinois. He attended the University of Illinois and earned a degree in Drama. He then went on to Yale where he earned his Master of Fine Arts degree. After working on stage for many years, Gross landed gueststarring spots on a variety of television series. In 1982, he landed the role in Family Ties. When Family Ties was cancelled, Gross found work in feature films, most notably as Burt Gummer in the Tremors films. He continues to be a very popular guest star on TV series such as Boston Legal, ER, Parks and Recreation, Law & Order, Suits and Curb Your Enthusiasm. Gross has been married since 1984 and has two grown children. He is a passionate fan of railroads and their history and owns an extensive collection of railroad memorabilia. About his role on Family Ties? “When I was doing the show, I was not quite that mellow as a real father. In fact, my wife used to call me Captain Von Trapp from The Sound of Music. I tended to be a little more authoritarian.”

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32 October/November, 2014  Senior Focus

Windows operating system continues to evolve Ask Mr. Modem Helpful Advice for Computer Users

By Richard Sherman

I’m thinking about buying a new laptop with Windows 8. I know some people don’t like Windows 8. Do you think Microsoft will keep this format in the future or will it go back to something like XP or the Windows 7 format? How do you feel about Windows 8?

I think Windows 8 is fine. I like the touchscreen interface, which is what it was designed for, though it certainly can be used

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with a traditional mouse and keyboard. Historically, whenever a new operating system makes its debut, there are people who like it and people who don’t. I call it the Broccoli Syndrome. Microsoft is not going to return to an older format because a few people complain. Windows 9 is already in the works and will be the next step in the evolution of Windows. Time and technology move ahead with us or without us. When Windows 98 was released eons ago, some people hated it because it represented such a big change from the previous version. The same thing occurred when XP replaced Windows 98. Over time, people settled down and became comfortable with the new operating system and that will happen with Windows 8 as well. Then, when Windows 9 is released, the Broccoli Syndrome will return. If you decide that you do not want Windows 8, you can still purchase Windows 7 on amazon. com or from other retailers.

Is there a limit to how many times I can use my Windows 7 Recovery Disk to format my hard drive?

There is no limit, so you can use your Recovery Disk until the cows

How do I delete all data from a flash drive so that I can put new information on it?

drive and various bits of technical information nobody ever pays attention to. You might want to consider changing the Volume Label, which is the name that will appear next to the drive letter for your flash drive. I like to name my flash drives something short like Morry or Edith. Other people prefer something more descriptive, such as MP3Files or WorkDocs. You don’t have to change the Volume Label at all, if you prefer to leave things as they are. Remove the check mark beside the Quick Format box, then click Start to format your flash drive. The formatting process will probably take a few minutes and you may see a green progress bar. Once formatting is complete, your flash drive will be squeaky clean and devoid of data that it previously contained.

Mr. M’s DME (Don’t Miss ’Em) Sites of the Month

menot.com is a similar site that I have used successfully a number of times naughtycodes.com

come home – if you are, indeed, expecting bovine visitors. Doing so will not damage the Recovery Disk so there is nothing to be concerned about as far as over-using it.

Formatting a flash drive will wipe all data off the drive. If that’s what you would like to do, start by inserting the flash drive into a USB port on your computer. Click Computer (depending on your version of Windows), then right-click your flash drive icon and select Format. You will see the capacity of the

Naughtycodes.com

Though you might think this is an adult-oriented website, it is not. This site provides access to a database of discount codes that are available to shoppers when placing an online order. Select an online store from the drop-down menu and you will see the code and the discount. Sure it’s naughty, but it’s also kind of nice. Retail

Give the Gifts of Time, Patience and Fun! Traveling tutor will come to you

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Comedy and coffee

Jerry Seinfeld chats with fellow comedians over a cup of coffee. Hilarious! Each video is approximately 15 to 20 minutes in length and as it is with most comedy today, there is occasional profanity and adult-oriented material. Interviewees include Michael Richards, Carl Reiner, Mel Brooks, Alec Baldwin, Ricky Gervais, Larry David, David Letterman, Don Rickles, Chris Rock and others. If you like Seinfeld, don’t miss these episodes. Some are truly laughout-loud funny. comediansincarsgettingcoffee.com

Twisted Questions

Would you rather die by a boulder falling on you, falling off a mountain, or getting hit by a meteor? Or let’s say you’re standing on a stage in front of a huge audience, about to play a lengthy violin solo. The problem is, you don’t know how to play the violin. What do you do? Described as a “playground for the mind,” this site asks bizarre, occasionally troubling questions and invites your input and participation. Some questions may occasionally be a bit on the coarse side, so be forewarned. twistedquestions.com Use Promo Code MODEM when entering your six-month subscription to Mr. Modem’s award-winning weekly computer-help newsletter and receive one month for free! Visit MrModem. com.

–Senior Wire©

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