Boomers & Beyond Fairfield September 2014 ebook

Boomers d n o y e &B Fairfield County

September 2014

Waveny Lifecare Network delivers person-centered care! p2

The Greens at Greenwich From sadness to joy with Creative Arts Therapy p3

Ridgefield VNA

celebrates 100 years of exceptional care! p5

Jewish Senior Services

provides care throughout Southern Connecticut! p11

Synergy Home Care – The most trusted name in home care! p20

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September, 2014

Boomers & Beyond - Fairfield County

You don’t have to be an eldercare expert to appreciate continuity in care.

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As your needs and preferences change, we’ve got the solution.

At Waveny LifeCare Network, person-centered care is at the heart of our mission.

Like a river, our programs, services and residential options flow together fluidly to benefit those we serve. All within a single organization, and without any expensive buy-in fees or long-term commitments. Why choose a stand-alone provider who FDQÂśW DGDSW WR \RXU QHHGV RYHU WLPH ZKHQ /LIH&DUH LV RXU VSHFLDOW\" With nearly 40 years of non-profit expertise in serving the community, we understand KRZ SHUVRQDO QHHGV FDQ FKDQJH RYHU WLPH RU HYHQ LQ DQ LQVWDQW 7KDWÂśV ZK\ LWÂśV VR important to entrust your care to a healthcare provider that can meet your unique preferences both in the moment and beyond.

We welcome older adults from all areas. To find out more or arrange for a tour of our award-winning New Canaan campus, call Ginny Carroll at 203.594.5331 or visit us online at waveny.org.

Boomers & Beyond - Fairfield County September, 2014

From sadness to joy with Creative Arts Therapy Maria Scaros-Mercado, Executive Director at The Greens at Greenwich, is using Creative Arts Therapy to transform the conventional aspects of assisted living. “Using music, art, drama and dance/movement as part of a therapeutic activity program is essential. Older adults, especially those with memory impairment, may not be able to express feelings of isolation and sadness in words, which can lead to depression and despair. Using the arts in unique ways can transform their moods, outlook and feelings. Utilizing their innate creativity in the here-and-now can make the difference between not wanting to get up in the morning and looking forward to the day,” she explains.

Creative Arts Therapy is not a diversional activity. It is goal oriented, purposeful and person centered. Creative Arts Psychotherapists have master’s degrees and go through intensive training to be licensed and board certified. Their goal is to assess, listen intently and bestow a creative intervention to people whose roles in life have diminished.

“In drama therapy we utilize improvisation to embellish their stories. Often, meaningful objects are used to stimulate memories.

These can include a pair of baby shoes or family photographs.

Old roles of mother, father, child or professional are revisited,” explains Ms. Scaros-Mercado.

Music Therapy also awakens emotions. The blues, for example, express feelings that resonate with older adults, who start singing again. Often they can’t remember names as well as they remember lyrics. With dance/movement therapy, movement is used to awaken emotions, understanding that the body has memories as well as the mind. There’s no right or wrong in the dance or the movement.

Art Therapy releases self-expression and memory through tactile and visual stimulation.

Personal histories are revealed through color, line and texture.

Art, music, dance/movement and drama therapy encourage a sense of play and joy, causing actual changes in the brain’s chemistry.

More importantly, it empowers and provides a sense of belonging.

“I’ve 30 years of experience in creative arts therapies and I know how effective it is. I’m thrilled to bring it to The Greens at Greenwich,” says Ms. ScarosMercado.

AT

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THE GREENS AT GREENWICH,

An AssisTed livinG CommuniTy, We offer A WIDE VARIETY OF ACTIVITIES FOR OUR RESIDENTS

(This isn’t one of them.)

Whether it’s yoga, music, art or drama therapy, trips to cultural events or a walk in the woods, our memory support programs are tailored to meet the mind, body and spiritual needs of each resident.

Call The Greens at Greenwich today to arrange a tour.

Because not all assisted living communities are the same

1155 King Street Greenwich, CT 06831

(203) 531-5500 (203) 531-1224 FAX

www.thegreensatgreenwich.com

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September, 2014

Boomers & Beyond - Fairfield County

SPECIALIZING IN CARDIOLOGY, INTERNAL MEDICINE AND GASTROENTEROLOGY

HONORED ON

‘Best Doctors’ LISTS YEAR AFTER YEAR

ROBERT BELKIN, MD GABRIELLE BOLTON, MD MARK BORKIN, MD SUSAN CAMPANILE, MD LEO CARDILLO, MD MAXWELL CHAIT, MD ALBERT DELUCA, MD JEFFREY DONIS, MD JOYDEEP GHOSH, MD LAWRENCE GLASSBERG, MD EDUARDO GRANATO, MD CRAIG HJEMDAHL-MONSEN, MD KUMAR KALAPATAPU, MD

SRIRAMA KALAPATAPU, MD RICHARD KAY, MD ANDREW CARL KONTAK, MD ANDREW KUPERSMITH, MD STEVEN LANDAU, MD YAT WA (BETTY) LI, MD SANJAY NAIK, MD DIMPLE PATEL, MD RONALD PRESTON, MD ANTHONY PUCILLO, MD TODD C. PULERWITZ, MD MONICA REYNOLDS, MD JAE RO, MD

WARREN ROSENBLUM, MD ABDOLLAH SEDIGHI, MD INDERPAL SINGH, MD SUSAN SOEIRO, MD DAVID E. SOLARZ, MD CARMINE SORBERA, MD ELENA L. TSAI, MD STEVEN L. VALENSTEIN, MD MELVIN WEISS, MD RONALD WEISSMAN, MD PRESTON WINTERS, MD

Visit us at one of our locations: 19 Bradhurst Avenue Suite 700 Hawthorne, NY 10532 (914)593-7800

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Boomers & Beyond - Fairfield County September, 2014

PAGE 5

Senior Living Personality Quiz: Deciding Between Assisted Living and Care Home 1 Are you more energetic or more subdued?

More active seniors may prefer the larger, busier environment of an assisted living community, which has daily activities and entertainment. Seniors who are more subdued may like the quiet, calm and ‘homelike’ environment of a care home.

2 Do you like to get out a lot?

Most assisted living communities offer daily excursions for the intrepid. This can include trips to the mall, classical concerts, museums, church or even the casino. Care homes typically offer outings on a more periodic basis, so a senior who likes to get out and about frequently may prefer assisted living, while the homebody may prefer a care home.

3 Do you need a lot of attention?

Care homes tend to have a higher ratio of caregivers to residents than assisted living communities, so seniors who need more companionship or one-on-one attention from caregivers may do well at a care home. On the other hand, assisted living may be better suited for seniors who would be unlikely to turn to caregivers for companionship or to fulfill emotional needs.

4 Are you more extroverted or introverted?

The more extroverted and social may prefer assisted living communities, which have dozens of residents (potential friends), frequent social gatherings and a restaurant-like dining experience. Seniors who are more reserved may prefer a care home, where they can quickly become familiar with the caregivers and the other residents, and often develop a special bond with them.

Quieter seniors also often enjoy the intimate and genuinely home-like dining experience of care homes.

5 How much privacy or solitude do you require?

Assisted living residents typically have their own apartment, usually with a private bathroom and sometimes with a living room, as well. Assisted living residents who appreciate solitude can retreat to their apartment and even lock their door whenever they like when they want “alone time.”

At care homes, intimacy prevails over privacy, and solitude can be more difficult to find. Care-home residents usually have just their bedroom to themselves, and sometimes share a bathroom with another resident.

We recognize that neither people, nor senior communities, fall into cut-and-dry dichotomies. Just as there are people with a blend of outgoing and introverted characteristics, there are senior communities with the traits of both assisted living and group homes.

The questions posed in this article are designed to spur thought, but those who are grappling the immediate choice may be best served by visiting a few assisted living communities as well as a few care homes to learn more about what might be the best fit.

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September, 2014

Boomers & Beyond - Fairfield County

Advertiser’s Index

Our View

ColumbiaDoctors....................................................................4

Seniors are important for a lot of reasons. So where should we start?

Here goes: Seniors are important because they have much to teach us about, among other things, love, compassion and doing the right thing.

Seniors are important because they can be helpful in our applying lessons of life, such as self-esteem, self- respect and self-discipline.

Seniors know things we would never guess unless we ask.

We owe so much to them and that’s, in part, why we created Boomers & Beyond: Fairfield County monthly magazine. And, here it is, our debut issue. We are excited and honored to be a part of your community.

A few years ago, we created Boomers & Beyond: Westchester County.

It’s been a success with the senior set, their families and the people who love and take care of them. So we decided to take this act to Fairfield County.

Boomers and Beyond is geared toward our avid senior readers – and the facilities and businesses trying to reach them. Our magazine serves as an insightful resource for seniors, providing them with information important to them: From health trends, to retirement savings, travel and dining deals, and much more.

We encourage you to email us at info@healthcarenews.com with your stories.

As our growth continues, we would like to thank all of our advertisers for their support. We look forward to working with and getting to know you all!

The Greens at Cannondale....................................................9 Glen Island Center for Nursing and Rehabilitation.................18 The Greens at Greenwich......................................................3 Jewish Senior Services.........................................................11 Long Ridge of Stamford.......................................................15 Ridgefield Visiting Nurse Association.....................................5 SYNERGY HomeCare..........................................................20 VNA of Hudson Valley...........................................................19 The Wartburg......................................................................12 Waveny Lifecare Network......................................................2

Fairfield County

Boomers d

Jim Stankiewicz, General Manager

& Beyon

845-534-7500 • (fax) 845-534-0055 Info@HealthcareNewspaper.com PUBLISHER Joseph P. Belsito (Joe@healthcarenewspaper.com) ••• GENERAL MANAGER James Stankiewicz (Jim@healthcarenewspaper.com) ••• MANAGING EDITOR Cathryn Burak (Cathy@healthcarenewspaper.com) ••• MARKETING EXECUTIVE Anthony Mairo (Anthony@healthcarenewspaper.com) ••• CIRCULATION Michelle Belsito (Michelle@healthcarenewspaper.com) ••• SENIOR CORRESPONDENTS Brendan Coyne John Jordan

Corporate Information Healthcare News - Fairfield County, CT edition - Vol. 1 No. 1 - is published monthly, 12 times a year by Belsito Communications, Inc., 1 Ardmore Street, New Windsor, NY 12553. Postage Paid at New Windsor, NY and additional mailing offices. Postmaster: Send address changes to Healthcare Newspaper, 1 Ardmore Street, New Windsor, NY, 12553. No financial responsibility is assumed by this newspaper to publish a display, classified, or legal ad or for typographical errors except of reprinting that part of the ad which was omitted or in error. Omissions or errors must be brought to the attention of the newspaper during the same month of publication.

Next Month in Boomers & Beyond…

Long Term Care

Long Term Care Awareness Month Is your organization doing enough to increase awareness of your senior services?

Elder Care Redefined Wound care Rehabilitation Behaviorial health

Boomers & Beyond - Fairfield County September, 2014

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Consiglio named Administrator for Waveny at Home

provided

Bill Piper, Chief Executive Officer of Waveny LifeCare Network, has named Lenore Consiglio Administrator for Waveny at Home, the not-forprofit healthcare organization’s non-clinical home care division that provides professional homemaker and companion services to the public. In this role, Consiglio will oversee and manage Waveny at Home’s growing private duty staff as well as the program’s daily operations designed to help clients remain safely in their own homes.

Consiglio identifies with the dynamic nature of the Waveny at Home program, which was launched in 2013 in response to the community’s growing need for home-based services.

“Because community-based services aren’t limited by physical walls, they can adapt and vary to reflect the

New Canaan resident celebrates 100th birthday at Waveny's Adult Day Program

New Canaan resident, Evelyn Francis, celebrated a landmark 100th birthday among friends at Waveny’s Adult Day Program. Waveny LifeCare Network provides a comprehensive continuum of healthcare to serve the growing needs of older adults from all areas.

changing needs and preferences of those we serve,” said Consiglio. “I like to color outside the lines. I believe there are a number of opportunities to serve and assist people in ways that aren’t even realized yet.” Consiglio says she is excited to focus on developing custom services specifically tailored to benefit seniors throughout Fairfield County. “Companionship services can extend far beyond the home,” said Consiglio. “They can range from escorting people to appointments, shopping and events, to providing therapeutic recreation activities like live music or art therapy.”

Joining Waveny with more than 20 years of healthcare administration experience and a strong nursing background, Consiglio most recently served as a Managed Care Clinical Specialist in a home care capacity in

Cromwell, Conn. Her not-for-profit healthcare experience includes a progression of key leadership positions within the Masonicare organization of Wallingford, Conn. where she ultimately directed admissions for two locations totaling 534 skilled nursing beds and 59 acute hospital beds.

“Lenore’s solid eldercare background and proven record of ‘outside of the box’ thinking makes her a perfect fit to lead and further develop upon Waveny at Home’s gamut of offerings,” said Bill Piper. “She brings a person-centered approach to service and is a natural fit for Waveny LifeCare Network’s leadership team.”

“It’s a distinct privilege to provide companionship for another person, no matter the capacity,” Consiglio said regarding Waveny at Home, “Well-being is at the heart of our mission.”

Two residents celebrate 100th Birthday

John Chesney and Dorothea Williams both celebrated a landmark 100th birthday at Waveny Care Center. photos provided

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September, 2014

Boomers & Beyond - Fairfield County

The Biggest Fears of Senior Living (that really shouldn’t be fears) Your aging parent might find moving into senior living to be a scary prospect. Think again! We break down the 6 biggest fears of senior living and why there’s nothing to be worried about.

If TV is to be believed, senior living is for grey-beards and golden girls. It’s where you go when you have nobody else to take care of you, where you go to get old and lonely.

It’s no wonder your aging parent might find moving into senior living to be a scary prospect. But it really doesn’t have to be. The truth is, the vast majority of our fears are inaccurate.

Especially in recent years, when baby boomers are reinventing what senior living really means, these common stereotypes are falling by the wayside. Instead, what we have is a wide range of types of state-of-the-art senior housing, from independent living for active adults to assisted living for those who need a little day-to-day help.

If your loved one is worried about moving into senior housing, read on for answers to some of the most common fears of senior living.

1. I Will Lose My Independence While some seniors fear that assisted living is equal to a loss of independence, the truth is in fact much the opposite. Yes, you’ll have help with cleaning, cooking, and other chores that only become more onerous over time. What senior living offers is greater freedom with the precious time you do have. To make that time happy and rewarding, communities provide ample opportunity for social activities on-site as well as transportation around the area when you need it.

2. People Will Forget About Me It’s natural to worry about being alone, especially if you define yourself wholly or in part by those relationships you value. However, moving into senior living doesn’t mean you’ll lose those relationships. In fact, you just might value them even more. At the same time, a senior community provides new venues for social contact, not to mention on-site help when where’s an emergency.

3. I Will Get Old and Sick Faster Whether you’re old or young, it’s being alone or isolated that leads to anxiety and depression, while the social contact a senior community provides is key to better health and quality of life.

If a senior loved one is already ill— with Alzheimer’s disease, for example— memory care offers daily stimulation, planned activities, and customized care, all of which can actually slow down the progress of an illness or even improve health and behavior.

4. I’ll Be Bored With the amenities and activities offered by today’s senior living communities, there’s no time to be bored.

Senior housing nowadays offers everything from field trips and outdoor excursions to fitness and personal enrichment classes. There are even unusual types of assisted living communities that cater to specific tastes— imagine living on or near a college campus and taking lifelong learning to its ultimate extreme!

5. I’ll Drain All Of My Finances Yes, senior living can seem financially daunting; no doubt about that. But if you’re already thinking about how to afford assisted living, you’re ahead of the game. With savvy financial planning—and maybe a little help from Social Security or VA benefits—senior living can sometimes come out to the same cost as living at home. If you factor in home health care, senior living communities just might cost less than staying at home.

6. I Won’t Be Able to Control My Daily Life and Activities Assisted living can be a necessary and freeing step for both seniors and their families. If it is already too difficult for a senior to care for herself independently, or for caregivers to provide the necessary help, then assisted living may be a good option. The emphasis is on safety and security, but also independence and privacy, enabling each resident to have the care they need without compromising individual dignity.

Boomers & Beyond - Fairfield County September, 2014

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10 warning signs your parent needs help at home Maybe you’ve noticed that dad’s unopened mail is piling up. Or mom, once meticulous about her appearance, is wearing wrinkled clothes and not doing her hair. Perhaps there are bruises on your aging parent’s arms. When you bring up the subject, you hear, “Everything is fine. There’s no need to worry.”

Admitting they need help would mean they can’t take care of themselves anymore, and no one wants to lose their independence. “Denial is the unrealistic hope that a problem is not really happening and will go away by itself. Admitting they need help and accepting assistance is not easy for people as they age. It represents a loss of independence. Denial plays a major role – and signs get ignored.

The burden often falls on the family to recognize the signs that an aging parent might need help with daily living tasks. This doesn’t necessarily mean that your loved one has to go to assisted living or a nursing home, but they may need some extra help in their home. If they’re not willing to admit it, how do you know if your elderly parent needs home care?

Here are signs that may indicate your parent needs help at home: 1. Spoiled food that doesn’t get thrown away 2. Missing important appointments 3. Unexplained bruising 4. Difficulty with walking, balance and mobility 5. Noticeable decline in grooming habits and personal care 6. Dirty house, extreme clutter and dirty laundry piling up 7. Stacks of unopened mail or an overflowing mailbox - Late payment notices, bounced checks and calls from bill collectors 8. Poor diet or weight loss 9. Loss of interest in hobbies and activities 10. Forgetting to take medications – or taking more than the prescribed dosage

Live Better

It’s time to…

T REAT YOURSELF TO THE BEST. ll your life you worked hard to be the best. The best parent, the best provider, and the best professional you could be.

You put the needs of others before your own.

Now isn’t it time to put yourself first? Why not treat yourself to the best at The Greens at Cannondale? Our assisted living community offers spacious living accommodations, filled with all the amenities you deserve; three restaurant-style meals in our elegant dining area, daily housekeeping, personal care and the opportunity to challenge yourself through one of our many daily activities and educational opportunities that will expand your interests and your mind at the same time, helping you to become the best version of yourself possible.

Call today to schedule a tour so we can show you what it means to Live Better.

Located on nine lush acres, The Greens at Cannondale stands out in a class all by itself. Each day we strive to exceed our well-known reputation of excellence in senior living throughout Fairfield County.

Live Better

435 Danbury Road Wilton, CT 06897 203.761.1191 www.thegreensatcannondale.com

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September, 2014

Boomers & Beyond - Fairfield County

Secrets to Living a Longer (Happier) Life We know that a healthy lifestyle is a major factor in living a long, healthy life, but new studies show that having hobbies and staying socially active are equally important.

A nutritious diet, regular exercise, and positive health choices such as not smoking all contribute to helping seniors feel younger and more energetic.

Now, emerging research into longevity indicates that mental and social activity are just as critical as physical activity when it comes to healthy aging. Hobbies, leisure activities, and a rich social network are factors that correlate with living longer.

What does it mean to have a healthy lifestyle as we age?

Scientists are finding that if seniors want to live longer, it’s more than a matter of just staying fit and eating right—but we can’t forget that those are still important.

In fact, for seniors in a recent study, those who were physically active — getting regular exercise through swimming, walking, or gymnastics — lived more than two years longer on average, and those who didn’t smoke lived a year longer than smokers.

Diet is important too —those who are overweight or underweight are at greater risk of mortality as they age.

The latest research on longevity in older adults In one study on seniors, scientists also looked at factors that haven’t been studied as closely; namely, whether mental activity and social engagement also affect longevity. A group of 1810 seniors age 75 and older were followed over an 18-year period and quizzed on their activities, and those who lived the longest had a number of characteristics in common: – they got regular physical activity – they didn’t smoke – they engaged in a range of mental activities, social activities, and productive hobbies – they had a rich social network of family and friends

All told, the seniors who were active physically, mentally and socially were the most likely to live past the age of 90, and lived an average of 5.4 years longer than inactive seniors, reports the Assisted Living Federation of America.

How Seniors Can Live Longer, Happier Lives The researchers listed a wide range of leisure activities that are associated with health and longevity, aside from physical exercise. The National Institute on Aging further notes that these activities can increase seniors’ sense of well-being as well as lowering the risk of some health problems, including dementia.

– Mental activities: reading books or newspapers, doing crossword puzzles, drawing or painting, writing, studying, learning a musical instrument - Social activities: going to concerts or performances, visiting art museums, traveling, playing cards or games, joining a senior center, starting a book club, taking a class – Productive activities: gardening, cooking, knitting, getting a part-time job, volunteering at a library or hospital.

Boomers & Beyond - Fairfield County September, 2014

by Robin Friedson

A

re you needing extra help at home, returning home after a hospital stay, or recovering from an illness? Finding the right agency for care, convenience and affordability is important. Agencies can offer varying services, but are usually categorized as medical or non-medical providers.

Medical home health agencies are licensed providers and require a doctor’s referral. Your care at home is provided by: nurses; physical, occupational and speech therapists;

home health aides; and case managers. The team of caregivers will work with you and your doctor to develop a recovery plan, provide support, and monitor your progress. Care is personalized and is usually covered by your Medicare plan and/or other insurance.

Non-medical home care agencies provide you with home health aides and companions for assistance with tasks of daily living, such as dressing and grooming, companionship, housekeeping, meal preparation, transportation, and errands.

The caregivers support independent living. This assistance can reduce the stress on family members by letting them know that their loved one is safe and in good hands.

Certain insurances may cover this service.

There are few agencies in Connecticut that offer both medical home health and non-medical home care services.

Finding an agency that provides both services is a great resource because care can be easily modiďŹ ed. If your medical condition changes, the agency will be able to monitor your condition seamlessly and provide appropriate care without changing agencies. The familiarity and convenience of having the same team can be especially reassuring in providing care and support.

Jewish Senior Services (www.jseniors.org) has over 40 years of experience in caring for seniors. Their Friedman Home Care Agency provides licensed medical and non-medical home care, in-home rehab and in-home hospice care for clients in FairďŹ eld and New Haven Counties. Contact 203-396-1136 or e-mail homecare@jseniors.org for a free consultation.

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September, 2014

Boomers & Beyond - Fairfield County

Taking care of your dad is getting overwhelming.

Where can you find someone to care for him at home like you do? Who can you trust?

From home and adult day care to rehabilitation, assisted living and nursing home care, Wartburg offers a full range of integrated services for your changing life. Our continuing care approach means you can trust us to be here – how, when and where you need us.

Helping families keep the quality in life.

Our care advisers will help you navigate your options to best meet your family’s needs. Call 855-WARTBURG (927-8287) or visit wartburg.org today.

For Wartburg life stories, visit wartburg.org.

INDEPENDENT LIVING | ASSISTED LIVING | ALZHEIMER’S/DEMENTIA | NURSING HOME | ADULT DAY CARE | HOME CARE | REHABILITATION

Boomers & Beyond - Fairfield County September, 2014

PAGE 13

Specialty voice therapies now offered through Waveny LifeCare Network Waveny LifeCare Network is pleased to announce the launch of a voice therapy specialty program on both an outpatient and home-based basis through Waveny’s rehabilitation services and Waveny Home Healthcare.

Led by speech-language pathologist, Sally Connolly, MS, CCC-SLP, voice therapy offered through Waveny can address a variety of needs stemming from medical conditions or trauma, or even help to enhance normal vocal functions like projection or singing.

“Many factors can lead to lost or reduced vocal function,” said Connolly. “Neurological disorders like Parkinson’s disease can negatively impact one’s voice and speech, as can other conditions or physical conditions such as cancer or trauma to the larynx. Voice therapy can help significantly in many of these cases.”

This type of therapy can also assist with common vocal conditions, and even help to improve speech projection and delivery.

“Many people experience frustration due to a hoarse or breathy voice, while others have difficulty projecting their voices in specific social settings or in the workplace,” said Connolly. “In fact, sometimes people lose their speaking voice or parts of their vocal range completely. In these instances, voice therapy can often restore or improve the voice and provide more personal control. It’s an appropriate method of treatment for public speakers, professional singers, older adults and anyone else who would like to improve their verbal expression abilities.”

A professional singer and flutist, Connolly can personally attest to the value of vocal therapy, as her own personal experience with vocal loss and

subsequent treatment was a driving force in shaping her career path as a speech pathologist. “I lost part of my vocal range while I was in college at Brown University,” said Connolly. “In my Speech Pathology program at Boston University, I had the honor of completing a specialty clinical placement at Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary alongside professional singers and speech-language pathologists and was able to apply the therapy techniques I learned to resolve my own voice issues.”

Connolly received her undergraduate degree in Behavioral Neuroscience and later went on to earn a Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology from Boston University’s Sargent College of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences. She has completed additional continuing education courses geared towards physicians and speech-language

To find out more about Waveny’s specialty voice and speech therapies conveniently offered on either an outpatient or inhome basis, please call Waveny’s Outpatient Rehabilitation department at (203) 594-5335.

Waveny LifeCare Network provides a comprehensive continuum of care – now including Home Healthcare – to serve the growing needs of older adults from all areas. Waveny is a notfor-profit organization that offers independent living at The Inn, asprovided sisted living for people with Speech-language pathologist, Alzheimer’s and memory loss at Sally Connolly, MS, CCC-SLP, The Village, and skilled nursing leads Waveny’s new voice at Waveny Care Center. It also intherapy specialty program. cludes the Brown Geriatric Evalpathologists held at Yale Uni- uation Clinic, Geriatric Care versity, Harvard Medical Management, an Adult Day ProSchool/Massachusetts Eye and gram that offers flexible weekday Ear Infirmary and Misericordia hours and transportation, inpaUniversity on the topics of tient and outpatient RehabilitaLaryngology Disorders, Pediatric tion Services, and respite Airway, Voice, and Swallowing programs. For information call Disorders and Estill Voice (203) 1-855-WAVENY-1 or visit Training (EVT). www.waveny.org.

Boomers Healthcare news eyond Fairfield County

Fairfield County

&B

Healthcare News and Boomers & Beyond comes to Fairfield County Connecticut!

The area’s only Health & Wellness publication to reach over 83,000 in Fairfield County Connecticut!

For more information contact: Jim Stankiewicz General Manager

Anthony Mairo Marketing Executive

Jim@healthcarenewspaper.com www.healthcarenewspaper.com

Anthony@healthcarenewspaper.com www.healthcarenewspaper.com

(P) 845-534-7500 Ext. 219

(P) 845-534-7500 Ext. 215

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September, 2014

Boomers & Beyond - Fairfield County

10 ways to strengthen seniors’ immune system

The older we get, the more susceptible we become to infections, inflammatory diseases and cancer. In fact, the leading causes of death for people over age 65 across the world are respiratory infections, influenza and pneumonia.

The following tips can help keep seniors’ immune systems going strong. They can also help seniors who do catch a cold or other minor illness recover faster and prevent a serious health issues.

1. Get vaccinated. Flu vaccines have shown to be effective for around onequarter of older adults. And seniors who get the flu vaccine have significantly lower rates of sickness and death.

2. Eat a healthy, nutrient-rich diet. Older people tend to eat less and have less variety in their diets. Fruits and vegetables rich in vitamins C and E, beta-carotene, and zinc are essential to good health. So is maintaining a low-sugar, low-fat diet that incorporates whole grains and lean proteins.

3. Exercise. Regular physical activity promotes circulation, heart health, and relaxes the body and mind. Walks, bike rides, yoga classes and other forms of exercise help boost seniors’ immune system performance and ward off infections.

4. Reduce stress. Stress has been linked to a number of illnesses, including stomach problems and heart disease. Whether it’s social stress, isolation or another form, stress can suppress seniors’ immune system, making them more susceptible to viruses.

5. Sleep. A natural immune system booster, sleep helps us respond better to stress and inflammation. It’s also shown to improve our response to the flu vaccine.

6. Wash hands. Washing hands regularly scrubs away germs. And covering sneezes and coughs helps prevent diseases from spreading.

7. Stay positive. A healthy outlook on life boosts endorphins, which make us feel good. Seniors who keep up with activities and hobbies that make them happy or challenge them in an enjoyable way have a better chance of staying positive and healthy.

8. Try some superfoods. Foods like kale, broccoli, avocados, certain mushrooms, berries and others have shown to improve seniors’ immune system performance.

Some superfoods even boost cognitive function and help fight Alzheimer’s disease.

9. Consider multivitamin or herbal supplements. An option for increasing nutrients and fighting infections, seniors should talk to their doctors first before adding multivitamins or herbs, such as echinacea, ginseng or probiotics, to their regimen.

10. Stay hydrated. Seniors tend to sense thirst less than younger people. But they need at least eight or nine glasses of fluid a day to keep mucous membranes moist, which lowers the chances of flu or colds. Water, coffee, tea and soup all count.

Boomers & Beyond - Fairfield County September, 2014

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5 Tips for Assisted Living placement for couples There are a lot of how-to guides out there to help you through the senior care process, most of them focusing on what it’s like to place one loved one into assisted living.

But what if you are faced with finding a place for both parents?

As life spans continue to increase, this situation is becoming more and more familiar to those caring for aging parents.

Recently, researchers have begun delving into the topic of married life in assisted living, and there are a few tips you can follow to make the process run smoothly for you and your loved ones.

1. Research facilities ahead of time Health transitions are one of the most common reasons prompting individuals or couples to begin the search for assisted living. The key to not getting caught off guard by a sudden health change is to start the planning process ahead of time.

2. Have a financial plan in place Especially for those without a family that is able to contribute to long-term care, the prospect of putting both members of a couple into assisted living can be financially daunting. Properly planning for long-term care can be the key to stretching the resources you do have and enabling your aging parents to continue residing together.

3. Prepare for the realities of the new space Beyond the personal space issue are the realities of living in a community environment. Being aware of the differences between your parents’ current environment and an assisted living facility can help everyone prepare better for the transition.

4. Consider both individual and shared needs Different couples have different relationship needs – and, likewise, individuals within a couple may have different social and health needs. Research the amenities and care provided by an assisted living facility ahead of time, to ensure that it will offer a pleasant quality of life for both members of the couple.

5. Prepare for future health changes Monitoring not one, but two parents in assisted living can be an added challenge when you throw in the very real likelihood that one or both of them may have unforeseen health changes in the future. One way to minimize stress in this situation is to familiarize yourself with the facility’s policies regarding resident retention in the face of health changes.

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May, 2013

Boomers & Beyond - Westchester

Aging brings changes in, among other things, the way seniors see the world.

Diminished vision health in seniors is a leading cause of changes in quality of life, depression, and home and car accidents. Regular vision tests are important to detect and treat the four major causes of senior vision problems. Changes in vision – pain, blurriness, or blind spots – are indications to seek medical care.

The key is to have regular eye exams so you can spot problems and potential issues early.

Steps To Protect Your Eyesight Have your eyes checked regularly by an eye care professional—either an ophthalmologist or optometrist. People over age 65 should have yearly eye exams. During this exam, the eye care professional should put drops in your eyes that will widen (dilate) your pupils so that he or she can look at the back of each eye. This is the only way to find some common eye diseases that have no early signs or symptoms. If you wear glasses, your prescription should be checked too.

See your doctor regularly to check for diseases like diabetes and high blood pressure. These diseases can cause eye problems if not treated.

See an eye care professional right away if you: Suddenly cannot see or everything looks blurry See flashes of light Have eye pain Experience double vision Have redness or swelling of your eye or eyelid Protect your eyes from too much sunlight by wearing sunglasses that block ultraviolet (UV) radiation and a hat with a wide brim when you are outside. continued on next page

Common Eye Problems The following common eye problems can be easily treated. But, sometimes they can be signs of more serious issues.

Presbyopia (prez-bee-OH-pee-uh) is a slow loss of ability to see close objects or small print. It is normal to have this as you get older. People with presbyopia often have headaches or strained, tired eyes. Reading glasses usually fix the problem.

Floaters are tiny specks or “cobwebs” that seem to float across your vision. You might see them in well-lit rooms or outdoors on a bright day.

Floaters can be a normal part of aging. But sometimes they are a sign of a more serious eye problem such as retinal detachment. If you see many new floaters and/or flashes of light, see your eye care professional right away. This is a medical emergency.

Tearing (or having too many tears) can come from being sensitive to light, wind, or temperature changes, or having dry eyes. Wearing sunglasses may help, as might trying eye drops.

Sometimes tearing is a sign of a more serious eye problem, like an infection or a blocked tear duct. Your eye care professional can treat these problems.

Eyelid problems can result from different diseases or conditions. Common eyelid problems include red and swollen eyelids, itching, tearing, and crusting of eyelashes during sleep.

These problems may be caused by a condition called blepharitis (ble-faRI-tis) and treated with warm compresses and gentle eyelid scrubs.

Boomers & Beyond - Fairfield County September, 2014

Eye diseases and disorders The following eye conditions can lead to vision loss and blindness. They may have few or no early symptoms. Regular eye exams are your best protection. If your eye care professional finds a problem early, there are things you can do to keep your eyesight.

Cataracts are cloudy areas in the eye’s lens causing blurred or hazy vision. Some cataracts stay small and don’t change your eyesight a lot. Others become large and reduce vision. Cataract surgery can restore good vision. It is a safe and common treatment. If you have a cataract, your eye care professional will watch for changes over time to see if you would benefit from surgery.

Corneal diseases and conditions can cause redness, watery eyes, pain, problems with vision, or a halo effect of the vision (things appear to have an aura of light around them). Infection and injury are some of the things that can hurt the cornea. Some problems with the cornea are more common in older people. Treatment may be simple— for example, changing your eyeglass prescription or using eye drops. In severe cases, surgery may be needed.

Dry eye happens when tear glands don’t work well. You may feel itching, burning, or other discomfort. Dry eye is more common as people get older, especially for women. Your eye care professional may

tell you to use a home humidifier, special eye drops (artificial tears), or ointments to treat dry eye.

Glaucoma often comes from too much fluid pressure inside the eye. If not treated, it can lead to vision loss and blindness.

People with glaucoma have no early symptoms or pain. You can protect yourself by having regular dilated eye exams. Glaucoma can be treated with prescription eye drops, lasers, or surgery.

Retinal disorders are a leading cause of blindness in the United States. Retinal disorders that affect aging eyes include: Age-related macular degeneration, or AMD. AMD can harm the sharp vision needed to see objects clearly and to do common things like driving and reading.

During a dilated eye exam, your eye care professional will look for signs of AMD. There are treatments for AMD. If you have AMD, ask if special dietary supplements could lower your chance of it getting worse.

Diabetic retinopathy. This problem may occur if you have diabetes. Diabetic retinopathy develops slowly and with no early warning signs. If you have diabetes, be sure to have a dilated eye exam at least once a year. Keeping your blood sugar under control can prevent diabetic retinopathy or slow its progress. Laser surgery can sometimes prevent it from getting worse.

PAGE 17

Retinal detachment. THIS IS A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. When the retina separates from the back of the eye, it’s called retinal detachment. If you see new floaters or light flashes, or if it seems like a curtain has been pulled over your eye, go to your eye care professional right away. With surgery or laser treatment, doctors often can prevent loss of vision.

Low Vision Low vision means you cannot fix your eyesight with glasses, contact lenses, medicine, or surgery. Low vision affects some people as they age. You may have low vision if you:

• Can’t see well enough to do everyday

tasks like reading, cooking, or sewing

• Can’t recognize the faces of your friends or family

• Have trouble reading street signs • Find that lights don’t seem as bright If you have any of these problems, ask your eye care professional to test you for low vision. There are special tools that can help people with low vision to read, write, and manage daily tasks. These include large-print reading materials, magnifying aids, closed-circuit televisions, audio tapes, electronic reading machines, and computers with large print and a talking function,

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September, 2014

Boomers & Beyond - Fairfield County

Key ways you can prepare to “age well” You’re probably already doing a lot to ensure that you stay in good health and are able to enjoy your later years: eating right, exercising, getting checkups and screenings as recommended by your doctor. Good for you! Keep it up! Still, it also makes sense to have some contingency plans for the bumps in the road that might occur.

1. Adapt your home – Stairs, baths, and kitchens can present hazards for older people. Even if you don’t need to make changes now, do an annual safety review so you can make necessary updates if your needs change.

2. Prevent falls – Falls are a big deal for older people — they often result in fractures that can lead to disability, further health problems, or even death.

Safety precautions are important, but so are exercises that can improve balance and strength.

3. Consider your housing options – You might consider investigating naturally occurring retirement communities (NORCs). These neighborhoods and housing complexes aren’t developed specifically to serve seniors — and, in fact, tend to host a mix of ages — but because they have plenty of coordinated care and support available, they are senior-friendly.

4. Think ahead about the help you may need – Meal preparation, transportation, home repair, housecleaning, and help with financial tasks such as paying bills might be hired out if you can afford it, or shared among friends and family. Elder services offered in your community might be another option.

5. Plan for emergencies – Who would you call in an emergency? Is there someone who can check in on you regularly? What would you do if you fell and couldn’t reach the phone? Keep emergency numbers near each phone or on speed dial. Carry a cellphone (preferably with large buttons and a bright screen).

6. Write advance care directives – Advance care directives, such as a living will, durable power of attorney for health care, or health care proxy, allow you to explain the type of medical care you want if you’re too sick, confused, or injured to voice your wishes.

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September, 2014

Boomers & Beyond - Fairfield County

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