Oct/Nov Edition of the Senior News

SENIORNEWS

OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2021

Adaptive Exercising As We Age 18 A STORY OF UNEXPECTED INSPIRATION

We Are

Closed!

OCT. 11

for Columbus Day

& NOV. 25 & 26 for Thanksgiving Holiday

SHORTENING THE DISTANCE:

HUMAN CONNECTION IN TIMES OF ISOLATION

FAMILY SERVICE HAS A SPECIAL HEART FOR OUR LOW-INCOME SENIOR POPULATION IN YELLOWSTONE COUNTY

4 20

EXECUTIVE UPDATE Remember those commercials that went like this: “Help, I’ve fallen and I can’t get up!” The commercial was advertising devices that can send a signal or alert when someone falls.

These devices are critical for many seniors and have absolutely saved lives. But, they Mike Larson do have one thing in common.

Executive Director They come into play after a fall.

The initial impact and aftermath of a fall can be the difference between a healthy, independent life, and a life of increasing dependency. So, can falls be prevented?

The answer is yes. September 20-24th is national “Fall Prevention Awareness Week”. This event is sponsored by the National Council on Aging. During this week, we will be posting fall prevention information and education on our Website and Facebook page. That’s both a plug for our social media presence, as well as an opportunity to get some helpful advice!

Can’t wait for that week? No problem! Here are are five steps you can take to reduce the risk of falling: 1. Get your exercise! Walk, yoga, tai chi, whatever you choose. It all helps!

2. Check your vision! Can’t see an obstacle, can’t avoid it.

3. Manage medications appropriately! Reduce side effects that can contribute to falling like being dizzy, drowsy, etc.

4. Manage chronic conditions. Take charge of your health.

5. Bring safety home. Eliminate trip hazards, broken steps, loose rails, slippery surfaces.

DIGITAL NEWSLETTER! If you would like to receive the SeniorNews ONLY by Email, please let us know at:

srnews@allianceyc.org

2

OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021

IN THIS Issue

OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2021

WELLNESS

18

HEALTHY IS WELLNESS.........................4 FOR YOUR HEALTH................................6

WHAT'S COOKING SENIOR LUNCH PROGRAM.....................8 MENU - BILLINGS/LAUREL.....................10-11 BILLINGS MEALS ON WHEELS................14

CONNECTIONS

20

“KEEPING UP WITH YOU”......................15 ALLIANCE VOLUNTEER PROGRAM...........16 CONNECTIONS IN OUR MIDST.................18 FAMILY SERVICE...................................20 HAPPENINGS.......................................23 LIFE'S OBSERVATIONS...........................24

RESOURCES RESOURCE CENTER...............................26 CAREGIVER SUPPORT...........................28 TECH TIPS............................................30 ALLIANCE SUPPORTERS........................32

OUR COMMUNITY MEALSITE UPDATES..............................34-37

HOURS

1505 AVENUE D 9AM-4PM • MON–FRI

935 LAKE ELMO DR 9AM – 2PM • MON-FRI www.allianceyc.org // Adult Resource Alliance

3

HEALTHY IS WELLNESS

WELLNESS

Healthy is Wellness Health Coach: Becky Ketterling, Certified Personal Trainer

Shortening the Distance: HUMAN CONNECTION IN TIMES OF ISOLATION Humans crave connection.

As social creatures, we are wired to belong to something larger than ourselves and we need human interaction Becky Ketterling Certified Personal Trainer, to survive. When Health Coach things stand in the Healthy Is Wellness, Inc. way of our ability to be together, we struggle to adjust and our health takes a hit – both mentally and physically.

We live in an age of disconnection where our modern way of life directly conflicts with our need for social connection. Now that almost anything can be done online, there is no longer a need to leave our houses if we choose not to. The pandemic has taken it a step further by requiring us to stay separate and distanced. With all that’s happening around us, it’s no surprise that we’ve arrived at a place in time where loneliness and isolation are flourishing.

Loneliness can be a difficult problem to address because it is almost entirely invisible, happening behind closed doors throughout our community. Yet if we are

4

OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021

aware of the issue, we can easily be part of the solution by reaching out in small but meaningful ways each day. And remember, helping others to feel better has the added benefit of making us feel better as well.

Simple Ways to Bridge the Gap

“Sometimes our light goes out but is blown again into instant flame by an encounter with another human being.”

— Albert Schweitzer SHARE A SMILE Science indicates that emotions are contagious! So ‘infect’ someone with your smile or laughter.

PICK UP THE TELEPHONE Since we often can’t be together in the same space, connecting through technology works as well.

START A CONVERSATION Even a few words about the weather count. It’s the contact that matters more than what is said.

GIVE A COMPLIMENT Never miss an opportunity to share something nice from the heart. “Being around you makes everything better” or “You have a beautiful smile.”

TAKE SOMETHING OFF THEIR PLATE We all get overwhelmed at times.

Take care of a small ‘to do’ item from a person’s list. “Can I pick anything up for you at the grocery store?”

LEAVE UNEXPECTED NOTES OF KINDNESS If you’ve ever received one of these little treasures, you know that they can change your entire day! “You make me smile.”

SAY THANK YOU Incorporate gratitude in all you do, even for the smallest acts.

Gratitude puts the focus on the positive for you and the other person.

LISTEN We often feel we need to give advice to someone who shares a problem with us, when all they really need is an ear to listen.

BELIEVE IN THEM Give someone the gift of your unconditional support.

Be the change…

The more the world changes in ways that keep us apart, the more we must work to come together. We can each choose to be a part of the solution to the loneliness affecting those around us. Take the daily challenge to touch just one person’s life in some small way each and every day. As Gandhi said so beautifully, “You must be the change you wish to see in the world.”

We care where you are.

Award-Winning Care to keep you young at heart.

Billings Clinic is the first and only medical center in Montana, Wyoming, Idaho, and North and South Dakota recognized by the American College of Cardiology with transcatheter valve certification. Our transcatheter heart valve program provides minimally invasive transcatheter repair or replacement options for aortic, mitral and tricuspid valves. These procedures minimize the length of stay in the hospital and shorten recovery times.

Transcatheter valve certification is awarded to hospitals meeting standards for multidisciplinary teams, formalized training, shared decision-making, and registry performance which result in improved patient outcomes.

Billings Clinic has the highest volume of transcatheter and surgical heart valve procedures in the region. Our experienced Heart Team can help decide if a transcatheter procedure is right for your valvular heart disease.

For more information, visit billingsclinic.com/TAVR www.allianceyc.org // Adult Resource Alliance

5

FOR YOUR HEALTH Happiness

FLOWS FROM ATTITUDE OF GRATITUDE Being grateful works wonders for your health. It leads to better sleep, less depression and helps with chronic illness. It has also been shown to ease pain, reduce headaches and help cope with stress.

Sandi Karr

When life seems overwhelmingly stressful, reminding ourselves of the good things we have can help us survive the bad stuff.

An attitude of gratitude can improve mental health in this difficult time of the COVID-19 pandemic.

RiverStone Health Clinic

Older adults are often thought to be in a stage of life where they are free of life’s stressors. In fact, concerns over arthritis, limited mobility, chronic illness, or memory impairment often give way to anxiety, loneliness and depression, according to the American Psychological Association. Such negative feelings need not be a part of the aging process.

Numerous studies have shown the connection between practicing gratitude and experiencing greater happiness.

Research on gratitude has demonstrated that it can increase self-esteem, make us more resilient, decrease depression, improve blood pressure, improve sleep and increase physical exercise.

Self-help book author Melody Beattie described benefits of gratitude this way: “Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life. It turns what we have into enough, and more. It turns denial into acceptance, chaos to order, confusion to clarity. It can turn a meal into a feast, a house into a home, a stranger into a friend. Gratitude makes sense of 6

OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021

our past, brings peace for today and creates a vision for tomorrow.”

Pay attention to the story you are telling yourself. Some people are very good at finding the positives in life and cultivating gratitude. Others may feel stuck in a negative narrative that increases hopelessness.

Keeping a daily gratitude journal can shift your story to a hopeful and more positive one. In a 2003 study, adults wrote down five things they were grateful for during the week for a period of 10 weeks. Results showed that the people writing about gratitude were 25% happier than study participants who wrote down their day’s frustrations or simply listed the day’s events.

In the study, people writing daily about their gratitude reported feeling more optimistic about the future. They felt better about their lives. They participated in 90 minutes more exercise per week than the control groups who weren’t writing about gratitude.

Discover the power of a gratitude journal for yourself.

It’s simple. Write down five things that you were grateful or thankful for today (such as health, nice talk with a friend, accomplishing a task) or list things that bring joy, happiness or abundance into your life. If you get stuck, think outside the box. Consider even small daily observations or happenings that spark gratitude.

If you are forgetting to do your journal, I recommend setting a daily alarm or calendar reminder. A regular dose of gratitude can help us build strength and resilience to get through these tough times.

Purchase visual cues such as positive sayings to add to your home décor to remind yourself to be grateful each day.

Older adults may find it difficult to find purpose for their lives after retirement or after all the kids have flown the nest.

But seeing our hard work in raising a family as we watch our children parent in a loving manner is beautiful.

Cultivating gratitude helps us see the bigger picture. Being grateful for little things, gives us a sense of our overarching life’s purpose.

Sandi M. Karr, M.Ed., LCPC, LAC, director of Behavioral Health Services at RiverStone Health, can be reached at 406.247.3350 www.allianceyc.org // Adult Resource Alliance

7

WHAT'S COOKING 8

OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021

SENIOR LUNCH PROGRAM Now that our Meal Sites are open, we are seeing numbers growing and many new faces at our lunch program.

If you would like to get out and meet new people, call and sign up for lunch.

Reservations are required. Call the day before by noon to make your reservation for the Billings/Laurel Meal Sites.

Contact the rural meal sites directly as they meet on different days throughout the month.

For the Billings/Laurel Meal Sites, we do offer either the hot meal of the day or a featured salad. October featured salad is an Autumn Harvest Chicken Salad with a Signature Dressing. November we will have a Taco Salad.

If you like to play bingo, cards, and games, contact your meal site, look on our Facebook page, or website www. allianceyc.org for activities that are offered at a meal site near you.

Thanksgiving Dinner Friday, Nov. 19th at 12:00

➥ Reservations will be accepted starting Nov. 1st. Call 259-9666. ➥ Due to limited seating we will also offer Thanksgiving Meals TO GO. ➥ Deadline to reserve a spot or TO GO Meal is Friday, Nov. 12th at Noon.

MEAL SITE LOCATIONS Billings Meal Sites Adult Resource Alliance

1505 Avenue D | 259-9666

Billings Community Center

360 N. 23rd St. | 259-9666 Mon.-Fri.

Billings Heights

935 Lake Elmo Dr. | 606-1170 Mon.-Fri.

South Park Community Center

901 S. 30th St. | 256-6413

Mon. & Fri.

Broadview Senior Center

13725 5th St. | 667-2212

Thurs.

Custer Senior Center

322 6th St. | 856-4187

Mon. & Thurs.

Huntley Sportsman Club

37 Minecha | 967-2671

3rd Thurs.

Laurel Senior Center

720 S. 4th St. | 628-7571

Mon.-Fri.

Shepherd Community Center

5541 Haynes Rd | 248-3123

Wed.

Worden Senior Center

2445 Main St. | 967-6535

Fri.

Mon.-Fri.

WELCOME EVERYONE!

TOURS, TOURS, AND MORE TOURS! OCTOBER 2, 2021 Mystery Tour … unbelievably unique & amazingly beautiful! ☛ $158/pp. Only one seat left!

2022_____________________ FEBRUARY 9, 2022 3-Day SnowCoaching Again! The only way to enjoy the beauty of Yellowstone National Park is via the comfort of a guided snow coach. Call for details; sign up as soon as you can; avoid the stand-by list. $622/ppd; add $248 for single. ☛ $100 Deposit; bal. due Jan 3rd.

FEBRUARY 28 5-Day San Diego Getaway! Call for Details.

APRIL 16

A Mystery & Foodie Tour!!!

MAY 16 5-Day Mount Rushmore, Deadwood & the Black Hills of South Dakota. A chance to see Mount Rushmore National Memorial, America’s “Shrine of TURNING Democracy;” guided tour of Deadwood

followed by gaming excitement (optional); and, more. ☛ $582/ppd; add $135 for single. $75 Deposit; bal. due Mar 9th.

JUNE 10 11-Day ARK Encounter & Creation Museum Motor Coach Tour.

This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

See the stunning, breath-taking, and jaw-dropping life-sized Noah’s Ark and experience pages of the Bible like never before. You’ll be awe-struck as you explore 75,000 square feet of state-of-the-art exhibits of the Creation Museum that allows you to venture through biblical history. ☛ $1259/ppd; add $404 for single. $75 Deposit; bal. due April 3rd. (Limited Seats) JULY 8 2-Day Montana Folk Festival, Butte. More information to follow.

JULY 18 7-Day Red Rocks to the Rockies. Call for the free airfare with deposit by end of November.

65 OR NEW TO MEDICARE? AUGUST 11

11-Day Oberammergau

Medicare— Medicare— decision 2021 decision 2021 Medicare— Medicare— decision 2021 decision 2021

Passion Play & Danube Explorer River Cruise. Highlighting Germany, Austria, Slovakia & Hungary. Exceptional Inclusions in addition to Reserved Seating Ticket to the Passion Play and more. Starting $5,249/pp twin.

AUGUST 31 12-Day Best of Israel and Jordan. (Rescheduled from November 4th, 2021 departure date.) Walk in the footsteps of prophets. Discover the scenic beauty, fascinating culture, and bountiful history of Israel. ☛ $4651/ppd; add $1279 for single.

Includes RT air. $250 deposit to reserve seat; add $299/pp of optional travel protection. Balance due May 31, 2022.

SEPTEMBER 28 4-Day Norsk Hostfest Festival, Minot, ND. More information to follow.

OCTOBER 9 Day Branson, MO motor coach tour. Details to follow.

NOVEMBER 27 6-Day Christmas at the Opryland Resort! Call for Details.

TURNINGFOR 65 MORE OR NEW TO MEDICARE? INFORMATION CONTACT LILY MOORE AT GDP TOURS

office: 256-1492 • talk & text: 860-9085 • lily@gdptours.com • www.gdptours.com

TURNING 65 TO MEDICARE? TURNING 65 OR OR NEW NEW TO MEDICARE? TURNING 65 OR NEW TO MEDICARE?

Turn to your local sales agent for a free consultation* Turn to your local sales agent for a Let’s talk about what you want and need in free consultation* TURNING 65 OR NEW TO MEDICARE?

a Medicare plan, and figure out which plans

Medicare— decision 2021

Turn to local sales agent for aa in Let’s about what you and need Turn talk to your your local sales agent for would bewant best for you.

Turn to your local sales agent free consultation* a Medicare plan, and figure out which plansfor a free consultation* free consultation* would be best for you.

Call a licensed Independent sales agent Let’s about what Turn totalk your local sales agentyou for a want and need in Let’s talk about what you want and need in free consultation* Amy Hurless Let’s talk about what want and need sales in aa Medicare plan, and figure out which plans licensed Independent agent Medicare plan,Call andafigure outyou which plans Let’s talk about what you want and need in 406-696-8925 (TTY: 711) would be best for you. a Medicare plan, and figure out which plans best for you. awould Medicarebe plan, and figure out which plans Amy Hurless would would be best for you. be best for you. Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

406-696-8925 (TTY: 711) Call aa licensed Independent sales amyhurless@simplifymedicareplans.com Call licensed Independent sales agent agent Call a licensed Independent agent Monday – Friday, sales 8 a.m.

– 5 p.m.

Call a licensed Independent sales agent Amy Hurless Amy Hurless Amy(TTY: 711) Hurless amyhurless@simplifymedicareplans.com 406-696-8925 406-696-8925 (TTY: 711) Amy Hurless Monday –406-696-8925 Friday, 8 a.m.

– 5 p.m.

(TTY: 711) amyhurless@simplifymedicareplans.com Monday – Friday, 55 p.m.

Monday 406-696-8925 – Friday, 88 a.m. a.m. ––(TTY: 711) p.m. amyhurless@simplifymedicareplans.com Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. amyhurless@simplifymedicareplans.com amyhurless@simplifymedicareplans.com

Y0040_GHHHXDFEN21_C

Y0040_GHHHXDFEN21_C *No obligation to enroll.

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*No obligation to enroll. www.allianceyc.org // Adult Resource Alliance

*No obligation to enroll.

9

OCT. MENU

BILLINGS & LAUREL

MEAL SITES

BILLINGS & LAUREL

MEALS ON WHEELS

27

Monday

Pizza Casserole Breadstick Green Beans Sliced Pears Monster Cookie

28

Tuesday

Beef Enchilada w/ Salsa & Sour Cream Refried beans Tom/Cuke Salad Fruit

29

Wednesday

Tomato Basil Soup Tuna Salad on a Croissant Nectarine Turtle Bar

30

ALL MEAL SITES NOW OPEN Reserve your meal by noon the day before.

See locations below.

Thursday

Turkey Ala King Biscuit Country Trio Veg. Bacon Cauliflower Salad Strawberry Ice Cream 7 GF Ginger Soy Chicken over Jasmine Rice Asian Blend Veg. Peaches Pudding w/ Topping

1

Oven Baked Chicken Rosemary Potatoes Peas & Pearl Onions Caesar Salad Pineapple Upside Down Cake 8 Oktoberfest Cabbage Roll w/ Sauce Mashed Potatoes Steamed Corn Cucumber Dill Salad/ Dinner Roll Cherry Strudel

4

5

6

11

12

13

14

15

18

19

20

GF Chicken Taco w/ Lettuce, Tomato, Cheese, Salsa & Sour Cream Fiesta Rice Fruit Carmelita Bar

21

22

25

26

27

28

Vidalia Onion -Cheeseburger Crinkle Cut Fries Pink Lady Apple Fresh Baked Cookie

Sorry we're

CLOSED for Columbus Day

Country Fried Steak w/ Gravy Mashed Potatoes Sunshine Carrots Tropical Fruit Butterscotch Pudding

Beef & Mushrooms over Mashed Potatoes w/ French Fried Onions Vegetable Sliced Pears Ice Cream

Cheesy Ham & Hash Brown Casserole Tomato Wedges Fruit Apricot Bar

Crispy Chicken Sandwich w/ Tomato, & Lettuce Potato Salad Fruit Cocktail Snickerdoodle Cookie

Sweet & Sour Pork White Rice Egg Roll w/ Sauce Chinese Cashew Salad Cookie

Brat on a Bun w/ Sauerkraut Chips Spaghetti Salad Tropical Fruit

Three Bean Chili w/ Cheese & Sour Cream Frito’s Carrot & Celery Sticks w/ Ranch Cinnamon Roll

Lasagna Steamed Broccoli Garlic Bread Banana Chocolate Pudding w/ Topping

Turkey Pot Pie Harvard Beets Broccoli Salad Fruit

Quiche Lorraine O’ Brien Potatoes Orange Wedges Yogurt w/ Granola

Chicken Tenders w/ Ranch Jo Jo’s Pea & Pasta Salad Cookie

Friday

Lemon Pepper Cod w/ Tartar Sauce Lemon Wedge Wild Rice Brussels Sprouts Mixed Fruit Peach Crisp Birthday SP BBQ Meatballs in Sauce Au Gratin Potatoes Whole Green Beans Pistachio Salad Cake Birthday Alliance, BCC, Hts, & Laurel 29 Halloween Stuffed Pepper in Sauce Mashed Potatoes Vegetable Grape Salad Dinner Roll Gooey Brownie w/ Worms

Alliance, BCC, & Meals On Wheels ����������������������259-9666

South Side Senior Center...................................... 256-6413

Billings Heights Meal Site..................................... 606-1170

Laurel Senior Center............................................628-7571

10

OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021

Nutrition Program Director: Lorri

NOV. MENU

Cooks: Jami, Kathy, Mary, Winter & Jake

1

Monday

Ham & Scalloped Potatoes Buttered Peas Orange Jell-O Salad Peanut Butter Cookie

2

Tuesday

Fish & Chips w/ Tartar Sauce Lemon Wedge Vegetable Fruit Cocktail Lemon Bar

3

Wednesday

Beef Stew w/ Biscuit Pickled Beets Garden Salad Fruit

ALL MEAL SITES NOW OPEN Reserve your meal by noon the day before.

Thursday

4

Chicken Enchilada w/ Salsa & Sour Cream Mexi-Corn Tom /Cuke Salad Mexican Wedding Cake

Friday

5

BBQ Rib Au Gratin Potatoes Green Beans Fruit Blueberry Cheesecake

8

9

10

11

12

15

16

17

18

GF Polish Dog w/ Sauerkraut Mashed Potatoes Corn on the Cobb Applesauce

19 Alliance Thanksgiving

22

23

24

25

26

Spaghetti w/ Meat Sauce Garlic Bread Seasoned Corn Tossed Salad Chocolate Ice Cream

Bacon Cheeseburger Baked Beans Pink Lady Apple Cookie

Country Fried Steak w/ Gravy Mashed Potatoes Sunshine Carrots Apricots

29

Shepherd’s Pie Harvard Beets Caesar Salad Fruit

Tennessee Pride Casserole Tomato Wedges Tropical Fruit Scone

Chicken Strips w/Ranch Jo Jo’s Fruit Strawberry Ice Cream

Fish Sandwich w/ Lettuce & Tomato Tartar Sauce Steamed Broccoli Creamy Coleslaw Lemon Pudding

30

GF Three Cheese Quiche Sausage Links Spiced Apples Cinnamon Roll

Beef Tips in Gravy Noodles Capri Vegetable Diced Pear Rice Krispy Treat

Chicken Marsala Garden Rice Vegetable Sliced Peaches Raspberry Coconut Cake

1

Turkey Noodle Soup w/ Crackers Egg Salad on a Croissant Banana Chocolate Brownie

Beef & Broccoli White Rice Pot Stickers Pineapple/Mandarin Cup Pudding w/ Topping

Oven Baked Bone-in Chicken Rosemary Baby Potatoes Country Trio Veg. Vanilla Fruit Salad Cherry Crisp Roasted Turkey w/ Dressing & Gravy Mashed Potatoes Green Bean Cass.

Cranberries/Roll Pumpkin Crunch Cake

Sorry we're

Sorry we're

Holiday

Holiday

CLOSED for Thanksgiving

2

Chicken Florentine Wild Rice Mixed Vegetable Ice Cream

CLOSED for Thanksgiving

3

Cranberry Glazed Ham Parmesan Mashed Potatoes Brussels Sprouts Waldorf Salad Italian Crème Cake

MEAL SITE RESERVATIONS must be made by Noon, at least 1 business day in advance. ☛ A requested donation of $4.00 per meal for adults 60 and above.

☛ Menu is subject to change

☛ Under 60 charge is $6.00.

☛ GF = GLUTEN FREE www.allianceyc.org // Adult Resource Alliance 11

BILLINGS MEALS ON WHEELS MOW Coordinator: Jaime • MOW Assistant: Stacy • 1505 Avenue D • 259-9666

Adult Resource Alliance’s Meals on Wheels Program (MOW) offers a hot nutritious meal to those over 60 years of age who are homebound. They are delivered by volunteers, Monday through Friday between 10:00 and 12:30. Meals are available on a short-term basis for persons recovering from a hospital stay or surgery until the person is no longer homebound. If a person is able to prepare their own meals or lives with someone who can prepare their meals you may be denied.

HOW CAN WE BE THE REASON

Someone Smiles Today?

Our Meals on Wheels volunteers are the reason I and many other people smile each day! They not only deliver a heathy meal, but also check in on those who want to see them. Occasionally, they are even able to solve a problem or two along the way!

They are the very best part of Meals on Wheels!

The staff in the kitchen make me smile. It is so fun to hear them answer trivia questions from one of the radio stations, and then laugh together. Work can be stressful sometimes, and I love when I see or hear my coworkers laughing together!

Many of our Meals on Wheels participants make me smile too! Recently, I had one of my guys tell me about a dream he had the night before. He dreamed that he and some buddies were sitting at an old fashion soda fountain and two stunning gals walked by. They went and sat down at a table and his friend was quick to go over to visit with them. One of them said “Oh my, who is that guy over there,” pointing at him! Aren’t dreams wonderful when they make us smile?

12

OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021

Pets also make us smile, but when we lose them, it is heartbreaking. Have you ever lost one dog when you had two that were great companions? Grieving is hard for people as well as our furry friends. Such is the case with one of our Meals on Wheels drivers. I remember the day that LaVonne came in with tears in her eyes and told me that Bandit crossed the rainbow bridge the day before. She missed him terribly and Bubba, her other dog was missing Bandit also! We have talked weekly about her search for another companion for Bubba. She knows a puppy would not be the best fit, but is hoping to find a small/medium sized dog who needs a new home and family. Of course, they would need to visit and get to know one another to see if it would be a good fit for both, but their hearts are open, to filling the void with a new dog. Perhaps you know of a dog who needs a loving home; please let me know and I will connect you with LaVonne. Together, we could be the reason LaVonne and Bubba are smiling again!

— Jaime

Halloween Word Search

BAT CANDY CHILLING GHOUL GOBLIN

GRAVEYARD SPIDER HAUNTED SUSPENSE HOOT TOMBSTONE NIGHT TREAT SHIVER VAMPIRE

www.allianceyc.org // Adult Resource Alliance 13

CONNECTIONS 14

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2021

“KEEPING UP WITH YOU” ACTIVITIES

Ages 60 and Better!

Better !

For More Info Call 406-294-1588

SIT AND GET FIT

CHAIR YOGA

Instructor: Jennifer Brown

Instructor: Tania Stevens-Klein

Sit and Get Fit uses different seated fitness programming which focuses on low impact exercises done from a chair.

Instruction is focused on empowering all ages and stages to participate in safe and effective exercise.

Achieve harmony as you relax and gain confidence from a seated position. Develop strength and balance as you slowly stretch muscles, improve circulation and reduce stress.

Activity #

6547-A

Activity #

6512-E

Start Date

September 28, 2021

Start Date

October 14, 2021

Time

Tuesday and Thursday; 12:30-1:00pm

Time

Thursday: 1:00-1:45pm

# Sessions-16

9/28/21 – 12/2/21 No class 11/11 and 11/25

# Sessions-8

10/14/21-12/16/21 No class 11/11 and 11/25

Fee

$10 Resident/ $20 Non-Resident

Fee

$25 Resident/ $35 Non-Resident

Location

Billings Community and Senior Center

Location

Alliance-Billings; 1505 Ave D

How to Register

How to Register

In person: 360 N 23rd St OR www.billingsparks.org

In person: 360 N 23rd St OR www.billingsparks.org

FITNESS BY DESIGN

For those new to fitness or those who would like to add some pizazz to their fitness routine, this class offers a variety of workouts which are combined into one great series.

Featuring strength training and aerobics, the instruction is tailored to fit the needs of aging adults by providing a social environment, improving strength and increasing flexibility.

Instructor: Bess Lovec Activity #

6599-C

Start Date

October 18, 2021

Time

Monday and Wednesday; 9:30-10:15am

# Sessions-16

10/18/21-12/8/21

Fee

$35 Resident/ $45 Non-Resident

Location

Alliance-Billings Heights; 935 Lake Elmo Dr.

How to Register

In person: 360 N 23rd St OR www.billingsparks.org

Face coverings are recommended when entering building for fitness and wellness classes. As a safety precaution, please do not arrive early.

GENTLE YOGA

Slow paced, relaxing practice that includes moving the limbs and torso in a comfortable way. Great for those new to yoga.

Instructor: Bess Lovec Activity #

6517-C

Start Date

October 14, 2021

Time

Thursday; 1:00-1:45pm

# Sessions-8

10/14/21-12/16/21 No class 11/11 and 11/25

Fee

$25 Resident/ $35 Non-Resident

Location

Alliance-Billings Heights; 935 Lake Elmo Dr.

How to Register

In person: 360 N 23rd St OR www.billingsparks.org

Other KUWY Activities are postponed until further notice. www.allianceyc.org // Adult Resource Alliance 15

AVP VOLUNTEER PROGRAM A Grateful Reflection The Adult Resource Alliance would be a very different organization without the willing, caring, creative individuals who commit themselves to helping, honoring and advocating for senior programs and the people that benefit from them. We are grateful for each and every AVP volunteer who helps to strengthen the mission of the Alliance and other partner organizations in Yellowstone County.

☛ Elizabeth adores her Meals on Wheels delivery drivers, she says they are all so warm and kind. On the day of her birthday, her driver sang Happy Birthday to her. And that really made her smile! ☛ Alice loves receiving a phone call from her Phone Buddy. They laugh, share stories, chitchat about their favorite foods and movies and buzz about a whole lot more. ☛ Getting around is not easy for Eileen, so having a Panty Pal has made it possible for her to fill her cupboards again. Her pal is friendly, kind, and always returns from the grocery store with the essentials and other goodies she looks forward to having on hand.

Be the Smile that Rouses a Smile, Become a Volunteer ADULT RESOURCE ALLIANCE

Meals on Wheels Substitute Delivery Drivers

Shift: On Call, Weekday Mornings Pitch in and pick up a Meals on Wheels route every once in a while. Substitute drivers are “on call” and depart at approximately 10:00am one weekday morning each week. Deliveries take about 90 minutes.

ADULT RESOURCE ALLIANCE

Pantry Pals Grocery Program

Billings/Billings Heights Shift: Weekdays One morning or afternoon, approximately 2.5-3 Hours Seniors living in the Billings area really need you! Commit 3 hours every other week (only 6 hours a month) to being a Pantry Pal; a personal grocery shopper who helps a senior by doing their grocery shopping.

Volunteers bring the magic that inspires a smile, always uplifting those they serve.

AARP

Tax Preparers

February 1-April 15 Monday-Thursday (Select One) Shift: 8:30am-2:30pm Continue to include a brain building activity in your day while enjoying the company of senior citizens who need assistance with basic tax returns. Training and certification provided.

F EL CONFEID EN

The Adult Resource Alliance has updated the COVID-19 Volunteer Policy. To view, please visit www.allianceyc.org.

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OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021

T

Pandemic practice s that address voluntee r safety are in pla ce.

FINAL DATES 2021 AREA

FARMERS’ MARKET LOCATIONS GARDENERS’ MARKET Billings South Park October 7 Thursday, 4:30-6:30pm

YELLOWSTONE VALLEY FARMERS’ MARKET Downtown Billings October 2 Saturday, 8am-12pm

EVERGREEN FARMERS’ MARKET

Ace Hardware 13 St W & Ave B September 28 Tuesday, 4:30-7pm

Keeping residents safe is our way of life.

Heidi is our Quality Coordinator. For over 17 years she has provided expert care and services to Westpark Village residents.

2351 Solomon Avenue, Billings, MT 59102 | 406-652-4886 | westparksenior.com

THIS INSTITUTION IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY PROVIDER

www.allianceyc.org // Adult Resource Alliance 17

Connections IN OUR MIDST A SERIES OF ARTICLES ON PEOPLE, PLACES AND PERSEVERANCE IN YELLOWSTONE COUNTY

Adaptive Exercising as We Age – A STORY OF UNEXPECTED INSPIRATION

was a way to still get in the water, to maintain her fitness level even if she couldn’t swim laps for a while. The Great Pandemic of 2020 had caused her favorite pool to close for several months and there were very few alternatives to continuing her fitness routine.

Jane, a 60-something recreational swimmer who had taken swim lessons and participated in several swim events pre-Covid, found herself in a predicament when she injured her back in a fall. She had signed up for a summer open water event being hosted in northern Montana, but now she had to cancel. Disheartened and missing the pool practices, she wondered if there 18

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2021

So, she began to check around and found a few locations with a pool that she could use. Not only did she find a fitness center that allowed lap swimming, but they also provided some equipment for something she’d never heard of, adaptive water exercise equipment. After she’d been going in for laps two or three mornings a week, she discovered the benefits of aqua dumbbells and the water jogging belt. She quickly found out that the best thing about aqua jogging is that it takes little to no coordination and the benefits stack up fast.

And who would have thought that pool noodles could be used by adults and not just kids? From noodle tucks to noodle twists, this water toy can help you burn calories!

Next came the resistance fins that you wrap around your ankles or wrists to create some serious resistance in the water.

As she began to use the water exercise equipment to recuperate from her back injury, she met many other pool enthusiasts with limited mobility. She stumbled upon a “clan” of not-so-young allies who also wanted to take advantage of the low-impact nature of the water to maintain a reasonable level of fitness.

At any point in our lives, we may find ourselves facing physical challenges, whether from an accident or aging, or even illness or weight gain. That’s where the “adaptive” part of exercise comes into the picture. But more importantly, that’s where the stories of hope, inspiration, and the strength to overcome start to shine. Jane and her pool pals quickly recognized that, even though swimming may not be able to fix a lot of things in the world right now, it sure can help overcome obstacles and give people the confidence to accomplish something that deserves celebration.

Much to Jane’s joy, she connected with others who were determined not to let their physical challenges prevent them from doing something positive and healthy. Every time she went to the pool, she found herself cheering on her cohorts, and that always brought a smile to her face.

As Desmond Tutu said, “Hope is being able to see that there is light despite all of the darkness.”

www.allianceyc.org // Adult Resource Alliance 19

3927-3931 1st Ave. S. Billings, Montana

Family Service has a special heart for our low-income senior population in Yellowstone County.

IT IS OUR PRIVILEGE AND HONOR TO HELP WHEN TIMES ARE CHALLENGING! This is the second in our series of articles on the programs and non-profit organizations who receive a portion of the Yellowstone County Senior Mill Levy Fund. Family Services of Yellowstone County receives funds from the levy in support of the Commodity Supplemental Food Program for seniors. This program serves 700 seniors, with a waiting list. For many of these seniors this program fills a critical gap and helps to reduce or eliminate food insecurity. The program is just a small part of what this amazing organization does for Yellowstone County and the surrounding area. The Adult Resource Alliance is proud to support their efforts in this vital work.

Family Service’s mission for the last 115 years has been to prevent hunger, homelessness and poverty in Yellowstone County and surrounding areas through community involvement. Our generous community and those who support Family Service and the Adult Resource Alliance really care about the elders in our community. They make these important senior services possible.

We believe that life is more successful when people live in relatively stable circumstances, having enough 20

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2021

of the most vital essentials. One of our guiding ideas is that limited household resources can be stretched when times are tough if Family Service food programs are used. Vulnerable seniors can save hundreds of dollars a month by using Family Service for food!

Several programs provide options to stretch monthly budgets. The first program, especially for seniors in Yellowstone County, is the Senior Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP), a federal food program for older citizens. CSFP can be obtained once

a month and include approximately 30-35 pounds of shelf-stable food with great choices like: • cereal: boxed cereal or oatmeal • protein options: canned meat products (chicken, tuna, beef, pork) or beans • canned fruit and vegetables—generally 4 - 6 cans total and/or dried fruit-raisins • starches: rice, noodles or pasta • beverages: milk or fruit juices • peanut butter • 2lb block of delicious American cheese We hope the seniors receiving this excellent service are thrilled to receive these foods each month. The goal of CFSP is to promote better health among our older, low-income folks. Family Service is the only reporting agency for this service in Yellowstone County and coordinates with other nonprofits too.

TO QUALIFY FOR CSFP • • • •

•

Participants must be at least 60 years old or older.

An ID is required.

Complete some easy paperwork to sign up and requalify each year.

Your signature (or your designated person) is required each time a CSFP food box is picked up.

Income level is for all adults in the household and must be reported. They cannot exceed the following: • $1,396/month for a household with one adult • $1,888/month with 2 adults • $2,379/month with 3 adults Income calculations increase with more adults (over 18) in the household. This means if a grandparent is living with adult children; the adult children/ grandchildren identify their earnings to determine household income. www.allianceyc.org // Adult Resource Alliance 21

please note that there is paperwork to complete and please bring your photo ID and a piece of mail showing Yellowstone County residency. Qualifications are few: • Yellowstone County resident • personal challenging times resulting in financial need OR • income of less than 200% of federal guidelines— • 1 person household less than $34,776, • 2 person household less than $47,034 If you want more information on CSFP, please call Vicki at 406-384-0055.

The next amazing food opportunity for those in need is our food room boxes that can be accessed as often as every 7 days for fresh food boxes. These boxes provide great fresh produce, dairy, eggs, frozen meat, and shelf-stable items. When you come in to pick up a commodity box too, you may go through our Client Choice food room to make your own food selections.

This further improves savings and food options for seniors in need. The food room is open Monday-Friday from 10am-3pm with Wednesdays, open to 6pm.

When you come in to use the client choice food room, 22

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Another program serving seniors in challenging times is our one-time rent or utility assistance program.

When faced with eviction or utility shut-off, clients may qualify for one-time help. Funds are very limited and used to help those who have unusual circumstances and know how they will pay for these expenses in coming months. Senior housing deposits may also be funded, after homelessness.

If you know anyone having financial struggles right now, make sure they know about our great programs here at Family Service. Our hours of service are from 9am – 4pm, Monday – Friday, with the food room open from 10am-3pm Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday with extended food room hours on Wednesday 10am -6pm. Come see us. It is an honor to be here to help.

Happenings UNDER THE BIG SKY Downtown Billings First Fridays

Harvestfest 2021 THE SEASON FINALE

Holiday food & Gift Festival

Yellowstone Valley Farmers’ Market

Rescued & Reclaimed Billings MT Harvest Season Vintage Market

Mannheim Steamroller

Fri, October 1, and Friday, November 5 - 10 am to 8 pm Downtown Billings

Last Saturday of the season October 2 from 8 am to 12 pm

Laurel Brewfest

Sat, October 2 from 4 – 8 pm Miller's Horse Palace 7215 Mossmain Ln, Billings, MT

Healthy by Design Gardeners' Market LAST DAY

Thurs, October 7 from 4.30 - 6.30 pm South Park on the corner of South 28th Street and Sixth Avenue South

Edge of the Plains Billings

Experience the inspiring stories of Montana Entrepreneurs who turned a pipe dream into a reality.

Thurs, October 7 from 6:30 to 8:30 pm Babcock Theater 2810 2nd Ave N, Billings, MT

Bell, Book & Candle Comedy

October 8 through 23rd Billings Studio Theater 1500 Rimrock Rd, Billings, MT

Black Tie Blue Jeans Fri, October 8 from 5:30 to 10:30 pm Rocky Mountain College 1511 Poly Dr

Sat, October 9 from 9 am to 4 pm Skypoint at 2nd Avenue & Broadway

Sat, October 9 from 10 am to 4 pm MetraPark Montana Pavilion

Dueling Pianos: A Gala benefiting Montana Families

Fri, October 15 from 5:30-9:30 pm Big Horn Resort, 1801 Majestic Ln, Billings, MT

NILE Stock Show & Rodeo

October 15th – 23rd – First Interstate Arena, 308 6th Ave N, Billings, MT 59101

Free Women’s Self Defense Class

Sat, Oct 16 from 10 – 11am Billings Krav Magg 1212 Grand Ave Ste 11, Billings, MT

406 The Great Masked Pumpkin Race

Run/Walk for your Pumpkin!

1 mi * 2 mi * 3 mi Costume prizes!

Read more on 406 Race Series Sat, Oct 23 from 11:30 am to 1:30 pm – Riverfront Park

Sat, Nov 13th and Sun, Nov. 14th MetraPark Arena 308 6th Ave N, Billings, MT Fri, Nov 19 from 6:30 to 8:30 pm MetraPark Arena 308 6th Ave N, Billings, MT

The Price is Right Live!

Sat, Nov 20 - Sun, Nov 21 MetraPark Arena 308 6th Ave N, Billings, MT

Rescued & Reclaimed Country Christmas Vintage Market Sat, Nov 20 from 10 am to 4 pm MetraPark Arena 308 6th Ave N, Billings, MT

The Nutcracker

Sat, Nov 27 – Sun, Nov 28, 2:00 pm Alberta Bair Theater, 2801 3rd Ave N, Billings, MT

Country Christmas Craft / Vendor Bazaar Sat, Nov 27 at 10 am Elks Lodge 934 Lewis Ave Billings, MT

Small Business Saturday Sat, Nov 27

Halloween Mash-Up!

Halloween-themed evening for kids and adults. It’s a little pinch of Clue Games, a sprinkle of Spirits, a touch of theater, and a whole lot of fun!

Fri, October 22 from 5:30 to 9:30 pm Moss Mansion 914 Division St., Billings, MT www.allianceyc.org // Adult Resource Alliance 23

LIFE’S Observations…

“Be the reason someone thousand words. Sometimes a picture on our phone is smiles today” is our theme worthy of an instant “thumbs up”, but occasionally that for this issue of the Alliance same picture is worth a hundred considerations and the Senior News. The deadline “thousand words” put to paper. Then it should be signed on submitting these articles and folded and placed in an envelope with an address for publication is a full five and a stamp to be mailed to your intended receiver. weeks before they come out Mailing a letter is a commitment of sorts. It says to your in print. That is long enough receiver, “You reached out to me and shared a little bit of in the instant world of Social

By David Mosdal who you are, now I am returning that favor by thanking Media for an idea to be Guest Columnist you and sharing a little more about me”. Thinking floated out there to be either leads to understanding. Understanding leads to action. “liked” and forwarded a zillion times, or to be plunked in Through the act of sharing a letter with someone, the that on-screen garbage real-time world slows can, never to be heard down to the speed of from again. (This makes human understanding, me wonder who has the if only briefly, where we chore of sweeping up can fix a moment in time behind this gargantuan Sometimes a picture on our and return to it as often elephant full of worthless phone is worthy of an instant as we may like or need. ideas... Now that's a rabbit hole with a badger “thumbs up”, but occasionally If you've stayed with at the bottom that isn't me to this point then that same picture is worth a worth entering. But I you know my goal is for hundred considerations and the digress). you is to “Be the reason someone smiles today”. “thousand words” put to paper.

Back to this notion of a Writing a letter is just five-week gestation from — David Mosdal one suggestion.

You keystroke to print; who should practice your own thinks in those terms best method of bringing anyway? Well, farmers a smile to someone's and ranchers do. face.

However, if you Gardeners do. Pregnant want to write a letter and mothers certainly do. don't know where to send it, send it to me at PO Box 6, Maybe our world hasn't really become as immediate as Broadview, MT 59105. I have stamps. I’ll write back. it seems right now.

Isn’t a thought worth sharing worth the effort of thinking about it for a while before shared with our circle of family and friends? It is said that a picture is worth a

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HOME HEALTH & HOSPICE

COMPASSIONATE

HOSPICE CARE FROM A NAME YOU TRUST When you or a loved one needs hospice care, St. John’s is here for you. We help patients live with the highest quality of life possible in the place they call home.

LEARN MORE (406) 655–5800 THE COMFORT THAT ST. JOHN’S UNITED PROVIDES IS SECOND TO NONE.

WWW.STJOHNSUNITED.ORG

HOME HEALTH & HOSPICE www.allianceyc.org // Adult Resource Alliance 25

THE RESOURCE CENTER

RESOURCES

Program Manager: Sue • Caregiver Support Coordinator: Emily • Specialists: Joyce Intake Specialist: Nancy • Assistant Director: Rita For more information, please call 259-5212

ANNUAL ENROLLMENT PERIOD FOR MEDICARE PRESCRIPTION DRUG PLANS—PART D IS COMING SOONER THAN YOU THINK The Annual Enrollment Period for Medicare Part D in 2021 will be:

October 15th to December 7th

The Resource Center Staff can assist with evaluation of your Medicare D plans for 2022.

• Call the Resource Center at 259-5212 and request to be put on Medicare Part D Rx Worksheet mailing list. They will be mailed out on 9/15/21. After 9/15/21 requests will be mailed or emailed out when requested.

• Fill out the worksheet completely and return it to the Resource Center. If there is missing information or an unsigned release, we won’t be able to complete the evaluation.

• Once we receive your worksheet, we will use the information provided to assess if your current plan is a good choice for 2022 or if you should change to another plan.

We will begin reviewing plan options after October 1st.

• If a new plan is a better choice, we will offer an appointment to assist you with enrollment if you like.

REMEMBER EACH YEAR, THE PLANS CAN CHANGE DRAMATICALLY SO IT IS IMPORTANT TO CHECK YOUR PLAN EACH YEAR.

WANT TO LEARN ABOUT THE CHANGES TO OUR REGION’S MEDICARE D AND MEDICARE ADVANTAGE PLANS FOR 2022??

LIMITED SEATING AT 2 LOCATIONS Tues., Oct. 12th at 9:30am

Alliance - Heights (935 Lake Elmo Dr)

Tues., Oct 12th at 1:00pm

Adult Resource Alliance (1505 Avenue D)

CONTACT ALLIANCE RESOURCE CENTER AT 259-5212 TO RESERVE YOUR SEAT. 26

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2021

RESOURCE STAFF TO COME TO COUNTY MEAL SITES FOR MEDICARE D OPTION REVIEWS. (Conditional on appropriate COVID limitations) The Resource Center staff will schedule a limited number of one-on-one counseling sessions at our outer County meal sites. These counseling sessions are aimed at assisting folks who are unable to come to the Billings office for their review due to transportation or limited mobility issues. The counseling sessions available will be filled on a first come first served basis.

To participate in this counseling, the person will have to have submitted a Resource Center Rx Worksheet a minimum of one week before the County meal site review date. We will run a comparison based on the information you give us. If you would like to have your counseling session at your local meal site, please make a note on the Rx Worksheet you turn in that “I would like to have my counseling session at ______ meal site”

we will not be able to use the computer program necessary to evaluated information at the local sites.

Appointments are limited, and you will be called for an appointment based on when the Medicare Part D Rx Worksheets arrived at the Resource Center. Send your worksheet in early to improve your chance of an appointment at your local site.

The Medicare Part D Rx Worksheet has to be turned in to the Resource Center no later than a week before the local assistance day. You must have an appointment – drop-ins will not be helped because

Monday, October 25th • Joyce to Custer Rx Worksheets in no later than 10/18/21

ARE YOU NEARING 65 YEARS OLD AND HAVE QUESTIONS ABOUT MEDICARE? Join the Resource Center Staff at

“New to Medicare” Presentations 1505 Avenue D, Adult Resource Alliance, Room 206 935 Lake Elmo Dr, Alliance Heights Conference Room FROM NOON TO 1:00

AVENUE D October 19 December 21

ALLIANCE HEIGHTS November 16

CALL 259-5212 TO REGISTER The Alliance Resource Center staff will be out of the office October 5 & 6th for State SHIP/I&A training. Call for an appointment to ensure we will be here to help you.

LOCAL SITE MEDICARE D OPTION REVIEWS DATES: Thursday, October 21st • Joyce to Broadview Rx Worksheets in no later than 10/14/21 Friday, October 22nd • Joyce to Worden Rx Worksheets in no later than 10/15/21

Thursday, October 28th • Rita to Laurel Rx Worksheets in no later than 10/21/21

FREE WEEKLY CREDIT

REPORTS UNTIL 4/20/2022 DUE TO COVID CRISIS We all see those ads in magazines and on the television about getting free credit reports. Unfortunately, you often get sucked into an on-going monthly cost to have “credit protection”.

Now you can get a credit report every week if you want without it costing anything. www.annualcreditreport. com, a federally authorized website – NOT Freecreditreport.com – will help you request a credit report from the three credit reporting agenciesExperian, Equifax, & TransUnion. Each company will provide you a free credit report weekly.

You can also access these reports by calling 1-877322-8228 and requesting them by phone. You may not need one every week unless you have been a victim of fraud or a life changing event like a divorce, but getting a free monthly report will keep you safe. www.allianceyc.org // Adult Resource Alliance 27

CAREGIVER SUPPORT PROGRAM Emily, Caregiver Coordinator 259-5212 The following article was taken from caregiver.com.

Unresolved Issues

IN FAMILY CAREGIVING

by Douglas Heck, PhD, Kristine Dwyer, LSW, MS

The phone call came on a misty Sunday morning.

Mary’s mother had fallen at home and was hospitalized with severe injuries. Mary and her sister were contacted by their elderly father and a social worker and encouraged to return home to help their aged parents make medical decisions, straighten out financial and legal matters, and find home care services. They were called to be caregivers, yet found themselves facing this role with great apprehension and mixed emotions as they considered stepping back into their parents’ lives. Memories of a difficult childhood and stressful relationships had led the family to years of estrangement.

At this point, they looked for guidance and answers to the dilemma they faced.

possible dangers of unresolved issues and identify the feelings that have come forward through this situation.

This time of transition can cause strong yet dormant emotions to surface and open old relationship wounds.

If we are not aware of these feelings, we may be at risk of inadvertently targeting our vulnerable parents with our anger. Sometimes, if unresolved issues and associated strong emotions are ignored, our ability to provide good care can become compromised. We may become less gentle, supportive, or empathic in our care. We may also become avoidant, or respond more slowly to our parents’ needs. In more severe situations, angry caregivers may unknowingly seek revenge or cause harm, which is dangerous for both the caregiver and parents.

Unfortunately, this scenario is a common one. We have often assisted caregivers with this dilemma and would like to offer some insights to help those of you who may be facing caregiving with great uncertainty.

It is important to decide whether to try to resolve issues with parents, or leave the past alone. This can be a difficult decision, but an important one. Admittedly, facing past issues can be very complicated and attempts to reconcile differences may only add to one’s own personal pain or disturb a parent’s overall well-being. At this point you may decide to NOT try to resolve issues, do your best to provide good care, and develop some ways of coping with your own mixed feelings. In many cases, this is the best choice to make.

First, please know that you are not alone. Many caregivers across the country find themselves having mixed feelings about caring for their parents. Some of these emotions arise from the natural concern about how best to provide care without adversely disrupting one’s own busy life. However, it is also very common for caregivers to have even stronger feelings, such as shame, bitterness, and anger as they try to cope with the caregiving needs of elderly parents who have caused family issues to arise.

Our relationship with our parents may suddenly be in a state of change, and as we age we are often called from our role of a child to take on a parental or authoritative role. It is important to be aware of the 28

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If you realize that your feelings will keep you from providing good care and having a positive relationship with your parents, then it may help to sit down and directly discuss your feelings with them. In some situations, it is better to write a letter to your parents, followed by a discussion. In our experience, this kind of discussion has often led to a resolution of issues, freed those involved from their feelings, and resulted in a much more meaningful relationship.

The act of caregiving alone can sometimes bring about the healing of emotional wounds from the past. Providing direct or indirect care for a vulnerable parent can help bring closure to unresolved issues. Anger can sometimes be replaced by understanding, compassion, and perhaps forgiveness. Peacefulness can overcome bitterness, which can then lead to a beneficial and healthy experience for both parents and family caregivers.

Caregiving, in spite of mixed feelings, can be accomplished successfully in several ways: • Accept what is. Acceptance of the current circumstances and reasonable expectations of one’s ability to be a caregiver are crucial steps.

• Feelings and memories can intensify during the caregiving process. Be aware of your limits and seek professional assistance, such as counseling, if needed.

• Develop healthy ways of managing your emotions.

Find a release, such as a walk, a good cry, journal writing or expressing your frustration to a close friend.

• Ask yourself what you are realistically willing and able to do in regards to the care of your parents, given how you feel about them.

• Delegate other tasks and needs to those who are able to serve in the caregiving role such as other relatives, neighbors or friends, especially if you are a long distance caregiver.

• Seek out community resources through social services, churches, senior volunteer organizations, Area Agencies on Aging and family caregiver support programs.

CARETIME CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUP Meetings will be held: 1:00 – 2:00pm The Adult Resource Alliance 1505 Avenue D ➥ PLEASE REMEMBER YOU MUST RSVP PRIOR TO ATTENDANCE. ➥ At this time, masks are recommended.

Mask guidelines are being monitored and may change. Please contact Emily to verify current COVID guidelines/restrictions.

Contact Emily at 406-259-5212 There is also a call-in option available for the meetings.

OCTOBER 2021 Wednesday, October 13th TOPIC: General Sharing Session

• Remember that asking for help is a sign of strength.

In summary, many of us find ourselves faced with mixed emotions toward providing care for our parents. These feelings may be mild or more severe and perhaps based upon years of past family conflicts. Whether you decide to resolve the issues or not, providing positive care for your parents is the goal. Many caregivers have used this time in their lives to address difficulties which can then hopefully lead to reconciliation, healing and a more meaningful caregiving experience.

NOVEMBER 2021 NO MEETING THIS MONTH

Due to the Medicare Annual Open Enrollment

www.allianceyc.org // Adult Resource Alliance 29

TECH TIPS Choosing the Right Smartphone

By Miranda Gilbert, Owner, Girl Geek Communications Smartphone technology allows us to have a tiny computer in the palm of our hands!

But choosing the right one can be overwhelming. Here are a few things to consider in weighing your options:

1. Cost.

Consider not only the cost of the device, but also the cost of service. Devices run from $150-$1200, but many service providers offer monthly payment plans. You don’t need the latest technology and high cost to run basic apps like maps and email.

2. Camera.

Miranda Gilbert Owner, Girl Geek Communications

What’s the difference between a $500 smartphone and a $1200 one?

Usually the camera. If you like features like 3D photos and slow motion video, pay for the fancy phone. But a basic smartphone will take very nice pictures without the high cost.

3. Operating system (OS). Just like your computer, Smartphones usually come

in one of two types, Mac (iPhone) or Android. The “best” OS is really a personal preference. If you like mac computers or iPads, you’ll probably enjoy an iPhone. Android users enjoy a variety of phone brands that fit their needs.

Must HaR YvOUeR s FO E N O H P T R A SM

So you’ve got a great new phone - congrats! Now what? Check out these important tips to maximize the functionality of your new device.

1. Insurance.

Phones get dropped, break, or otherwise get damaged. Fixing them can be very expensive. You can buy insurance through your cell phone provider or through insurance sources such as SquareTrade.

2. Cloud Backup.

Your contacts, photos, and files are important. Keep them backed up automatically via WiFi with cloud backup services. Some cell providers offer this service, but you can also use other sources. Amazon Prime, for example, offers members free photo backup by downloading the Prime Photos app and connecting your phone to your Amazon Prime account.

3. Antivirus software.

Since a phone is just a tiny, pocket-sized computer, you should install security software on your phone, just like you do for your computer. McAfee, Norton, and other companies offer security software that you can use on computers, laptops, tablets, and smartphones. In some cases, they provide cloud backup or identity theft software with your subscription too.

30

OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021

Leave the Driving to MET Transit!

▪ Medical Visits ▪ Hair Appointments ▪ Lunch ▪ Farmer’s Markets ▪ Shopping ▪ Meal Sites ▪ Concerts

Senior Monthly Pass only $12!

Call 657-8218 for information

and help with trip planning!

MEDICARE INSURANCE Annual Enrollment Starts

Call to schedule your Personal Plan Review

havepeace peace of “I“Ihave ofmind mind thatshe’s she’sbeing being taken that takencare careof.”of.”

– Daughter of a Resident at The Springs in Grand Park – Daughter of a Resident at The Springs in Grand Park

Assisted Living I Memory Care 1221 28th St W I Billings I 406-652-6989 I TheSpringsLiving.com

Assisted Living I Memory Care 1221 28th St W I Billings I 406-652-6989 I TheSpringsLiving.com

NOW! Office or Phone Appointments

October 15th!

CALL NOW! 406-969-3000

Available Wendy Nelson . Senior Specialist . Agent 3429 Central Ave, Ste A . Billings, MT . 59102

www.allianceyc.org // Adult Resource Alliance 31

SUPPORTERS

Thank you to each one of you who made a contribution during the months of July & August!

You truly are making a positive difference in the lives of seniors in our community.

Bonnie Ambuehl Anonymous Area II Agency on Aging Ask Insurance Sue & Tim Bailey Timothy & Betty Ballou Mike & Lauretta Bentz Pamela Blackman Diane & Mike Boyett Michael Brake Roland Brown John & Karren Cannon Jaime Carpenter Mary & Frank Cipech Charitable Trust Dick & Joyce Clayton Dick & Sue DeVries Edie & Greg Dibble Gary & Judy Doll Marlin & Sharon Dunlap Mary Dyer Eunice Ellison Rita Emond Angeline Ettleman Sara Fenimore Darlene & John Fernelius First Interstate BancSystem Foundation Teresa Fischer Kurt Frette Cheri Galt Gregg & Marcia Hafner Donna Hightower Gloria Horab Roy & Dolores Howerter

Leona Irvine Jan Kirk Gary & Janice Koch Thomas & Priscilla Korb Krueger & Company Real Estate Brokerage Trudy Krum Myrtle Lane Elaine Larimer Edeen Linsky Larry & Dawn Lofthouse Judy McCann Laura McCann Barbara McGregor Ben McKee Pat Mitchelll Delbert & Dina Moser Moulton Bellingham PC Leonard & Melody Munter Jeff & Vikki Muus Erik Neva Roger & Gerry Olmstead Maureen O'Reilly JoAnn Ostermiller Ken & Margaret Peterson Michael & Lorri Pool Katricia Pugh Joan, Eric and Lynne Rentz Ella Rider Rocky Mountain College Delores Roebling Roger Daniel Insurance Agency Dallas Roots Pam Sanchez

Curt Sauber SCL Health / St. Vincent Community Partnership Robert Scott Nancy Sinclair Donna Sitton Gail Snyder Stockman Bank Dr. J.J. & Donna Sullivan Jean Thompson US Foods, Inc. Velum Skin and Laser Center Virginia Waples William & Elizabeth Warner Teresa & David Wehr Terry & Linda Wilson Russell & Kathleen Wiseman Elsa Zorn Helen Zottnick

MEMORIALS Marjorie Booke Hospital Laundry Services Ron Reather Betty Ann Gabel

Winter is an etching, spring a watercolor, summer an oil painting and

AUTUMN A MOSAIC OF TH — Stanley Horowitz

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OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021

Medicare Marketing Violations Unlike Original Medicare, Medicare Advantage and Medicare Prescription Drug Plans are administered, marketed, and sold by private insurance companies. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has guidelines for marketing these Part C and Part D plans to protect Medicare beneficiaries from manipulative and deceptive sales and enrollment tactics.

What are Examples of Medicare Marketing Violations?

• Receiving an unsolicited phone call from a plan you have no prior relationship with or have disenrolled from • An agent or broker representing themselves as being from Medicare • An unsolicited home visit • Receiving information such as flyers on your car or at your home from a company with whom you did not have an appointment • An agent initiating a discussion about other insurance products, such as life insurance, during a meeting about Part C or Part D. • An agent returning uninvited to your home after missing an earlier appointment • Requiring you to provide contact information to attend a marketing event • Calling you after an event without your prior permission • Calling you to confirm you received information sent to you in the mail • An agent signing you up for a plan that you find out later does not cover the prescriptions or services they said it would

What Can Plans Agents Do? Agents who sell Part C and D plans can call you, if you have told them they could, and they can make unsolicited contact with you through the mail and advertisements, including by email if it contains an opt-out function.

Report potential Medicare marketing violations and/or enrollment fraud, errors, or abuse if you encounter any of these examples. Montana SMP is ready to provide you with the information you need to PROTECT, DETECT, and REPORT Medicare fraud, waste, and abuse. Call 406-259-5212 in Yellowstone County and 1-800-551-3191 for other Montana SMP with questions or complaints.

With Respect, Honor & Gratitude

THANK YOU

VETERANS

www.allianceyc.org // Adult Resource Alliance 33

OUR COMMUNITY 34

AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2021

MEAL SITE UPDATES ADULT RESOURCE ALLIANCE 1505 Avenue D • Reservations: 259-9666 Monday thru Friday

I’d like to welcome the wave of new participants we’ve received over the last few months. Your eye for affordable and nutritious meals without doing the dishes has set you free.

We continue to draw in the “fresh vegetable crew” with our monthly featured salads as well. Our doctors would be proud.

Oktoberfest Menu - Friday, October 8 11-12:30 Bookmobile- 2nd and 4th Fridays from 11:15 to 1:15.

Treasure Island Themed Halloween Party 11-12:30 on Fri Oct 29- We will provide all the pirates, parrots and treasure!

November Hot Apple Cider Tuesdays 11:00-12:00 Thanksgiving Dinner, Friday Nov 19. Reservations begin on Nov 1.

Our Avenue D location is serving 2 sessions 11-11:45 and 12:00 to 12:45.

Take Outs Only - 11:30 to 12:30 with a reservation.

—Mary Beth

HEIGHTS MEAL SITE

935 Lake Elmo Drive Reservations: 259-9666 • Monday thru Friday We’ve had the hottest summer that we can remember!!!! Keep drinking plenty of fluids.

Praying that all of you are doing well. If you are in the neighborhood, come in to just say hi. The gang would love to see you.

On October 29, 2021, we will have “The Golden Girls” dance group entertaining us.

Don’t forget to make reservations early, lunch starts at 11:45am.

Thursday is “BINGO” at 12:45 pm. Time to meet our great caller, her name is Sharlene.

We have the greatest volunteers at the Heights meal site. Thank you so much for all you do. Couldn’t do this without you.

Call us if you have any questions at (406) 606-1170.

—Marlene, Janlyn, Janet & Tim

MEAL SITE UPDATES BILLINGS COMMUNITY CENTER 360 N. 23rd Reservations: 259-9666 • Monday thru Friday It’s hard to believe that summer is winding down and fall is upon us. What a great time to check out the hot lunch program or the salad of the month at Billings Community Center. Then, stay for various card games, fitness activities, bingo, or other special interest groups. The computers are available as well as the fitness room.

Be the reason someone smiles today. All it takes is a smile, a compliment, or just a quick “hello”.

CUSTER SENIOR CENTER 322 6th St. • 281-0908 Mondays & Thursdays at 12:00 Let the Custer meal site be the reason you smile.

People come to the Custer senior center to visit, smile, and laugh. When you come in for lunch, you’ll get a full plate of a homemade meal. You will definitely leave with a full belly. Lunch is served on Mondays and Thursdays at noon. We would be happy to have you join us. We’re grateful for all of the wonderful days we can spend together. Thank you to all.

—Tina

—Linda

HUNTLEY SENIOR CENTER

LAUREL SENIOR CENTER

37 Minecha Avenue • 967-2671

720 South 4th Street • Meal Site Coordinator: Mary Reservations: 628-7571 • Monday thru Friday

This picture makes us all smile.

Marion Moots just celebrated her 100th birthday. She has been a member at Huntley Seniors for many years. That makes her smile and her cat, Matilda makes her smile too.

My reason for smiling has been unexpected phone calls, a jar of honey, a friend bringing home RTHDAY HAPPY 100TH BI made cookies, great-grandkids MARION! playing, help to carry a heavy load into Seniors, and a gift of a trip on the Charlie Russell Choo-chew in Lewistown. The cooler weather, and the great rain are nice too.

It’s easy to make someone smile…tell them a joke, invite them for coffee. Just smile at someone and give a compliment. Let them know you care.

What the world needs now is more smiles and kindness. Be the reason they smile, and it will make you feel good too. Maybe the crisp fall air and the holidays will be the reason we are smiling. So happy Halloween and a wonderful Thanksgiving.

See you at Seniors the 1st and 3rd Thursdays.

—Phyllis

As I write this, it is pouring rain outside. I hope that is a reason to make you smile today. I find it refreshing after such a hot, dry summer.

It is great seeing people coming back for dinner, and we welcome you.

Don’t forget that the Laurel Senior Center plays bingo on Fridays. Also, there is pinochle on Thursday after lunch and on the 2nd and 4th Sundays at noon.

Senior Wellness foot care clinic will be the fourth Monday of the month. Call Richard at (406)860-4482 for an appointment.

I would like to thank my loyal Meals on Wheels drivers who deliver to our clients. I know they give our clients “a reason to smile”.

—Mary & Amy www.allianceyc.org // Adult Resource Alliance 35

MEAL SITE UPDATES SHEPHERD MEAL SITE 5541 Haynes Road • 671-8413 Wednesday at Noon

WORDEN

2445 Main St • 967-6535 Friday at Noon We are so happy to be together after so long apart! We are so thankful for our new helper, Linda Henry. She is great!

KAREN PAULEY - BOARD, AGNES BEDDES -BOARD, PATRICIA MICHAELS - SECRETARY, LINDA HENRY – ALLIANCE STAFF, MARYANN MORGENSTERN – TREASURER/MEAL SITE COORDINATOR, MARK MORGENSTERN – CHAIRPERSON NOT PICTURED ARE BOARD MEMBERS ROSE FRITZ AND CARL VENDER

We are celebrating the wonderful time of the year that some call Autumn and some call Fall. Kids are back in school, leaves are falling, and the weather is mild.

Remember that after every meal at the center on Wednesday, we play Bingo. On the first and third Wednesdays, the bookmobile shows up. Also, if you are unable to attend lunch, call Lynette at 671-8413 by Monday. If you haven’t joined us for lunch, but would like to, please call Lynette. Having an accurate count for our lunch is important. Our numbers are growing, but the Delta Virus has put a damper on attendance, as some people are being cautious. Understandably so.

What kind of exercises do lazy people do? Diddly Squats!

SOUTH PARK 901 S 30th St • 256-6413 • southparkseniors.org Monday and Friday at Noon “Be the reason someone smiles.”

First off, thank you for all the continued support and attendance. Without you we couldn’t stay up and running.

We are so thankful to have come this far, especially, with all that is happening around us. With so much uncertainty, kindness and patience are crucial!

Don’t forget to try and be the reason someone smiles today. Whether it’s thanking a veteran, holding someone’s door for them or giving an amazing compliment. Take the time to say important things to loved ones and remember to try and “lovie up” those around you. It may be the reason someone smiles. Shine bright in the meantime!

Love Always, Your friends and S.P.S.C. 36

OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021

The Worden Meal Site meets every Friday at noon at the VFW on Main Street in Worden.

LINDA HENRY AN D JANET EUELL

We have lots of fun. The first Friday of every month we celebrate birthdays with cake and ice cream and play Bingo. Debbie Dvorak always finds us super prizes. We have recently added a new monthly feature the second Friday. Nurses from Riverstone Health will be sharing important health information with us. Their first program was excellent! We are also planning a carnival to celebrate the fair. We plan to have children from the school visit us as soon as the pandemic settles down and it is safe to mingle with them again. We really miss those cute kids! After each meeting, a group of members usually stay and play cards.

We have just added six new people to our Meals on Wheels program. Thank you, Jenny and drivers.

We love new faces, so if you would like to join us for lunch, please call me at 406 880 6061 before noon on Wednesday.

—Janet Euell

••• BUS SCHEDULE ••• CUSTER BUS TO BILLINGS

2nd and 4th Tuesday of Every Month

Call 861-4259 for Reservation

LAUREL TRANSPORTATION PROGRAM Within Laurel: Mon-Fri• 10am-4pm Laurel to Billings: 1st & 3rd Tues Afternoons EVERYONE WELCOME!

Call 628-4796 for Reservation

MEAL SITE MENUS CUSTER OCT/NOV MENU

OCTOBER_____________________________

WORDEN MENU

OCTOBER_____________________________

4 Oven baked chicken with mashed potatoes and gravy, vegetable, fruit, dessert 7 Goulash, garlic bread, vegetable, salad, dessert 14 Ham and bean soup, cornbread, fruit, salad, dessert 18 Meatloaf, baked potato, vegetable, salad, dessert 21 Cook’s choice 25 Pork chop, fries, salad, fruit, dessert 28 Soup, sandwich, fruit, dessert

1 Roast Beef, mashed potatoes, green beans, Waldorf salad, roll, cake and ice cream 8 Ham, au gratin potatoes, coleslaw, tapioca pudding, roll 15 Baked chicken, potato casserole, glazed carrots, fresh fruit, roll, cookie 22 Cod, mac and cheese, veggies, jell-o with oranges, roll 29 Beef enchiladas, Spanish rice, Mexican corn salad, fresh fruit

NOVEMBER___________________________

5 Chicken ala king/biscuits, 3 bean salad, cake and ice cream 12 Hamburger, macaroni salad, fresh veggies, potato chips, apple crisp 19 Turkey breast, mashed potatoes, stuffing, mixed vegetables, roll, pumpkin pie 26 Not meeting

1 Tator tot casserole, fruit, salad, dessert 4 Chili, Frito’s, carrot and celery sticks with ranch, cinnamon roll 8 Hamburger and gravy on mashed potatoes, vegetable, fruit, dessert 11 Ham and scalloped potatoes, vegetable, roll, salad, dessert 15 Fish sandwich, tater tots, fruit salad, dessert 18 Biscuits and gravy, sausage patty, eggs, vegetable, cookie 22 Turkey, mashed potatoes and gravy, stuffing, cranberry sauce, vegetable, dessert 29 Hot turkey sandwich, mashed potatoes,

NOVEMBER___________________________

salad, roll, pie

HUNTLEY MENU

OCTOBER_____________________________ 7 Chicken and dumplings, tossed salad, cooked carrots, cupcakes 21 Pork roast, mashed potatoes & gravy, corn, roll, pumpkin bars

NOVEMBER___________________________ 4 Ham, sweet potatoes, peas, applesauce, dessert 18 Turkey, mashed potatoes & gravy cranberries, dressing, dessert www.allianceyc.org // Adult Resource Alliance 37

Home Helpers is Taking Care of the Greatest Generation....Yours.

You & your family deserve the best home care. From a few hours to 24/7 care, we’re there when and where you need us!

• Light Housekeeping • Laundry • Grocery Shopping • Meal Preparation • Errand Services • Prescription Pick-Up • Escort To & From Doctors • Much More!

406-697-4954 www.HomeHelpersHomeCare.com/Billings

Beginning on January 1, 2022

Each office is independently owned & operated.

Dialing ‘406’ will be

mandatory

for all in-state as well as out-of-state calls.

38

OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2021

WILLS • ESTATE PLANNING GENERAL PRACTICE OF LAW A trusted law firm for over 100 years . . .

Call Brent Cromley: 248-7731 brent.cromley@moultonbellingham.com

ELDERLY/IN-HOME CARE Visiting Caregivers • Special Needs

• • • • • • •

Tree/Shrub Trim or Removal Gravel Area Sterilizer Weed and Pest Control Bug and Weed Spraying Brush Chipping, Hauling, Odd Jobs Stump and Root Removal Licensed & Insured

PLEASE CALL 252-4677 erniescott4406@gmail.com

Patients rely on the generosity of blood donors to recover, heal and thrive VOLUNTEER DRIVERS NEEDED CALL 869-3040 FOR DETAILS Ensuring a safe blood supply for our community Schedule an appointment at vitalant.org or call 877-258-4825 Find us @vitalant:

WANT TO SEE YOUR AD HERE? — EMAIL —

INFO@ALLIANCEYC.ORG

FULL LINE OF INCONTINENCE PRODUCTS — DEPENDABLE DELIVERY TO YOUR DOOR — Locally owned and operated.

406-534-1439 • 2301 1st Ave. N. • Billings, MT 59101 Doug & Sheena • FAX: 406-534-2905

www.discreetsolutionsinc.com • EMAIL: info@discreetsolutionsinc.com

CHECK OUT OUR FACEBOOK PAGE FOR

UPDATES & NEWS

/AdultResourceAlliance

www.allianceyc.org // Adult Resource Alliance 39

KEEPING ADULTS 60 AND ABOVE INDEPENDENT AND INVOLVED

PO BOX 20895, BILLINGS, MT 59104

NON-PROFIT ORG. U.S. POSTAGE PAID BILLINGS, MT PERMIT NO. 47

Hospice Hospice&& Hospice & Hospice Home Hospice Home

Hospice Home At RiverStone Health Hospice and RiverStone

At RiverStone Health Hospice and RiverStone

Health Hospice Home, we understand the importance

Hospice Home, understand the importance ofHealth providing comfort in life’swe final days. We create an

of providing comfort in life’s final days. create an environment where loved ones canand spend theirWe final At RiverStone Health Hospice RiverStone environment where loved ones can spend their final

moments in peace. Our team of compassionate health Health Hospice Home, we understand the importance

professionals for Our patients in their own homes. health moments incares peace. team of compassionate

of providing comfort in life’s finalthedays.

We create an Patients and families also have option of 24/7

professionals cares for patients in their own homes.

professional hospice care atalso our RiverStone Healthoffinal environment where loved ones can spend their Patients and families have the option 24/7

Home, 2230 Mission Way in Billings, MT. momentsHospice inprofessional peace.

Our team of compassionate hospice care at our RiverStonehealth Health To learn more, call us today at 406.651.6500.

Hospice 2230 Mission Wayown in Billings, MT. professionals caresHome, for patients in their homes. learn more, us today at 406.651.6500.

Patients andTofamilies alsocall have the option of 24/7

professional hospice care at our RiverStone Health Hospice Home, 2230 Mission Way in Billings, MT. To learn more, call us today at 406.651.6500.

406.651.6500 • RiverStoneHealth.org

406.651.6500 • RiverStoneHealth.org