Fairfield County Boomers & Beyond July 2016 ebook

Boomers d n o y e &B July 2016

Three Signs it’s Time for Veterans Home Care See page 7

Fairfield County

Waveny Lifecare Network The expertise of a full healthcare system that makes house calls! p2

Star One Home Care and Medical Staffing When a helping hand is all you need p7

Columbia Doctors Medical Group Honored on Best Doctors Lists Year after Year! p19

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July, 2016

Boomers & Beyond - Fairfield County

Boomers & Beyond - Fairfield County

What is palliative care?

July, 2016

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Palliative care is patient and family-centered care that optimizes quality of life by anticipating, preventing, and treating suffering. Palliative care throughout the continuum of illness involves addressing physical, intellectual, emotional, social, and spiritual needs and to facilitate patient autonomy, access to information and choice.

The following features characterize palliative care philosophy and delivery: • Care is provided and services are coordinated by an interdisciplinary team; • Patients, families, palliative and non-palliative health care providers collaborate and communicate about care needs; • Services are available with or independent of curative or life-prolonging care; • Patient and family hopes for peace and dignity are supported throughout the course of illness, during the dying process, and after death source: www.nhpco.org

Spiritual Services role created at Waveny PAGE 4

July, 2016

Boomers & Beyond - Fairfield County

Reverend Tom Lilly has been named Director of Spiritual Services for Waveny LifeCare Network, a non-profit continuum of eldercare in New Canaan, Conn.

“Reverend Lilly joins us in a meaningful new role created in response to the community’s feedback and our desire to provide on-site spiritual support to those we serve,” said Bill Piper, Chief Executive Officer of Waveny. “Following a far-reaching national search led by our town’s clergy association, Tom was the clear choice for Waveny – not only due to the rich depth of long-term care and hospice experience he brings to this new position, but because of his passionate calling to help people deal with the most challenging moments of life. He will provide spiritual counseling, comfort and guidance to all our residents, patients, Adult Day participants, families and friends, and notably, those whom we serve within the community through our home-based services.”

A graduate of Louisville Presbyterian Theological Seminary and Marshall University of Huntington, W. Va., Reverend Lilly most recently served as Staff Chaplain for VITAS Hospice of Fort Lauderdale, Fla. for nearly six years. He is a Board Certified Chaplain who is ordained and has standing with the United Church of Christ, but whose role at Waveny is self-described as an Interfaith Chaplain. “My most important role, but most basic function, is to embrace and support people of all faiths and traditions,” he said. “My mission is to help them feel nurtured, supported and validated from within, and to apply a great sense of respect to each and every unique situation. If at any time the experience becomes more about my faith than about reaffirming their faith, I've veered wildly off path.”

Lilly says that restoring, renewing and nurturing a sense of spiritual connection is a key priority. “Seniors can experience disconnects with their faith amid life changes or when they feel internally isolated,” said Lilly. “My role is to remind them that despite the challenges of “I have sat where aging, their faith and spirituality still undergird them.

And, that a divine, caring and supportive presence is our families sit, still strong within and around them.” and I will Caring for his great grandmother decades prior inspired Reverend Lilly’s calling to eldercare service. always support “I have sat where our families sit, and I will always support them with empathy and sincerity,” he said. them with “Our elders are our roots – they’re the story of where empathy and we came from.” For struggling or grieving families, Reverend Lilly seeks to empower confidence in their sincerity. choices and decisions, while also facilitating access to Waveny’s many caregiver support resources. “By Our elders are entrusting Waveny with the care of those whom they our roots – they’re love, families have chosen a place of great honor and dignity. I seek to help let them let go of any feelings the story of where of guilt they may have,” he said. “There’s no room for shame in asking for help. I call it ‘regret managewe came from.” ment,’ and it’s truly one of the best ways families can —Reverend Tom Lilly deliver upon the sacred commandment to honor thy father and mother.”

Waveny LifeCare Network provides a comprehensive continuum of healthcare to serve the changing “The welcome has just been incredible,” said Lilly. “Everyone has needs of older adults from all areas. Waveny is a non-profit orbeen so open and excited, and it makes me take to heart the words of ganization that offers independent living at The Inn, assisted the parable, ‘I was a stranger and you welcomed me.’” Reverend Lilly living and respite care for people with memory impairment at relocated from Fort Lauderdale, Florida to join the Waveny organiza- The Village, and skilled nursing, inpatient and outpatient Retion. “To have been selected among so many well-qualified candidates habilitation Services at Waveny Care Center. It also includes is a humbling honor. Between our staff’s compassionate approach to the Brown Geriatric Evaluation Clinic, an Adult Day Program care and immense respect for personal dignity, and our organization’s that provides free door-to-door transportation throughout most incredible integration into the greater community, it’s clear that of lower Fairfield County, and an array of community-based Waveny was built upon the golden rule right down to the littlest services through Waveny Home Healthcare, Waveny at Home things. I’ve never seen an organization work so hard, but make it look and Geriatric Care Management. For more information, call 1855-WAVENY-1 or visit www.waveny.org. so easy.”

Your brain and aging Boomers & Beyond - Fairfield County

Researchers in a large study have found that the incidence of dementia in people aged 60 and older has dropped from 3.5 per 100 people to 2.0 per 100 over the course of the 35 year study. There are two possible explanations for this drop, neither of which has yet been proved. One is that the risk factors for cardiovascular disease, (like high blood pressure, high cholesterol and smoking) are better controlled now.

The second possibility is that the trend in improved educational attainment over time may delay the symptoms of dementia. However, the number of people with dementia is not falling because the older population is growing, and that is placing a tremendous burden on society. The memory loss and cognitive decline associated with dementia can be attributed to two major conditions. The first is Alzheimer’s Disease, which is characterized by abnormal fragments of a protein called amyloid in combination with tangles of protein known as tau. Amyloid accelerates the spread of tau throughout the brain and causes cognitive decline. The second is vascular dementia which is cause by damage to blood vessels in the brain, often a result of a lack of oxygen or damage to the brain’s white matter. Roughly half the people with memory loss have both amyloid and vascular damage. It appears that people with a more intellectual lifestyle may have a delay in experiencing symptoms of decline although their brains are going through the same changes as in the rest of the population.

So what can you do? Controlling blood pressure through a healthy diet and exercise can improve cognitive function. Similarly, high blood sugar may have a negative effect on the brain, much as it causes cardiovascular disease in other body organs, so keeping that under control is beneficial. Hearing loss is also linked to a higher rate of cognitive decline since it may cause the brain to put more resources into decoding messages rather than memory or thinking ability, lead to brain atrophy and cause social isolation, which is a risk factor for cognitive health.

So get your hearing checked, and stay socially active.

Founded in 1914, RVNA is an accredited non-profit Medicare-certified home healthcare agency that also supports public health and safety, and promotes the highest quality of life.

July, 2016

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By Theresa Santoro MSN, RN, CHCA President & CEO

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July, 2016

Boomers & Beyond - Fairfield County

Advertiser’s Index

ColumbiaDoctors.....................................................................................19

Jacuzzi Hydrotherapy Shower................................................................17

Jitterbug Flip Cell Phone.........................................................................11 Glen Island Center for Nursing and Rehabilitation..................................9 The Greens at Greenwich........................................................................3

Perfect Sleep Chair.................................................................................13

StarOne Home Care & Medical Staffing.................................................7 Veris Settlement Partners.......................................................................15

Waveny Lifecare Network.......................................................................2 Whitney Center.....................................................................................5

Boomers nd

WOW Computer.................................................................................20 Westchester County

& Beyo

845-534-7500 • (fax) 845-534-0055 Info@HealthcareNewspaper.com

PUBLISHER Joseph P. Belsito (Joe@belsito.com) ••• GENERAL MANAGER James Stankiewicz (Jim@healthcarenewspaper.com) ••• MARKETING DIRECTOR Gregory W. Buff (Greg@belsito.com) ••• MANAGING EDITOR Cathryn Burak (Cathy@healthcarenewspaper.com) ••• SENIOR SALES CONSULTANT Maureen Rafferty Linell (MRLinell@charter.net) ••• MARKETING EXECUTIVE Anthony Mairo (Anthony@healthcarenewspaper.com) ••• CIRCULATION Michelle Belsito (Michelle@healthcarenewspaper.com) ••• SENIOR CORRESPONDENTS Dale McKnight

Corporate Information

Healthcare News - Fairfield County, CT edition - Vol. 3 No. 7 - 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.

Our View

Summertime serves as a great opportunity to kick back, count your blessings, and enjoy friends and family.

Maybe it’s the warm weather, long days and the extra hours of sunshine, but this season brings out the best in life. Baby boomers kick-start their adventurous side and, in some cases, head out for parts unknown. Whatever the choice, work/life balance tends to tip toward the second word in that equation and living life to the fullest becomes a priority.

The options here in Fairfield County are limitless, from day trips, to hikes, to picnics in the parks. Summer will be over sooner than you think, so enjoy the warm weather.

July 4th embodies that spirit marked by our nation’s annual birthday celebration. Family, friends and neighbors gather together to barbecue and watch fireworks light up the sky.

It’s an exciting time with summer about to kick into full gear and we hope you enjoy every minute of it.

Get in touch at info@healthcarenewspaper.com.

Jim Stankiewicz, General Manager

Next Month Nursing Guide for Summer Home Care, Assisted Living, LTC Audiologists Latest technology when needing help with your hearing Neurosurgery Outreach Month Treating disorders of the entire nervous system Estate Planning Preparing for your future

3 Signs it’s Time for Veterans Home Care Boomers & Beyond - Fairfield County

When any of these signs are evident, it’s time to talk about the prospect and benefits of home care services. A home care aide from our agency is a valuable asset to any senior, including elderly veterans.

Care for Aging Veterans

One of the most difficult things people face is accepting that their mother or father are getting older and may require support and assistance in the future. When that moment comes, they may take it upon themselves to stop by and help with any number of tasks, including keeping up with the cleaning of the house, general maintenance, or even preparing meals.

For aging veterans, there is really no difference between what they go through and what other seniors face, especially with regard to health challenges and the changes in physical strength, agility, and balance.

The main difference for these elderly veterans, though, especially as it pertains to home care, is that there are certain financial assistance programs made available just for veterans, including the Aid and Attendance Benefit.

The Aid and Attendance pension program can supplement other pension programs and is specifically designed to pay for home care support when necessary. For a family struggling to determine whether it’s actually time to consider home care options for an elderly loved one who may be a veteran, below are three signs that may very well indicate that time has come.

Sign #1: The elderly veteran continually calls for help.

If the senior is currently calling family members and friends for help, whether it’s to change a lightbulb, get to a store, or making dinner, then it’s time to consider the prospect of a home care aide.

These home care aides can assist with all of that, and more.

Sign #2: The elderly veteran has fallen once already.

When a senior falls, they are at an increased risk of breaking bones and becoming seriously injured. In fact, if a person over 65 years of age breaks their hip, which can occur during an accidental trip and fall, the 1-year mortality rate is between 14-58% (Schnell, Friedman, et al.). Even more striking is this mortality rate increases by 4% each year over 60 years of age.

If the elderly veteran has already fallen once, it’s time to seriously talk about home care as a viable option with regard to safety.

Sign #3: The elderly veteran has expressed concerns for his safety.

If the person is having difficulty moving and if he acknowledges his own physical limitations due to his age, he may express his concerns to a trusted family member.

Whether this is an adult child, sibling, or somebody else, it’s important to heed that seriously.

July, 2016

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If you or an aging loved one are considering care for aging veterans in New York, NY, contact Star One Home Care and Medical Staffing at 212-874-2826, 718-733-2222, 914-362-0899 or CT 203-914-9668. Call today!

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These services are available for Short term or Live-in Care, including recovering from surgery or injury.

Life is an incredible journey and we are proud to offer support every step of the way

Whether you require a Hourly Support each week or full-time Live-In Care, contact us today for a free consultation and discover why Star One Home care is a superior alternative home care provider.

Connecticut 203-914-9668 Live-In Care available Westchester 914-362-0899 New York 718-733-2222 New York City 212-874-2826

www.staronehomecare.com info@staronehomecare.com

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July, 2016

Boomers & Beyond - Fairfield County

Dog Days at Waveny

Every dog had its day at Waveny LifeCare Network’s annual Dog Show, when more than a dozen 4-legged friends and their owners paraded down “Main Street” at The Village for an audience of Waveny’s residents, patients and Adult Day Program participants. Waveny’s residents presented each dog with a unique superlative title, hand-made award, and special gift of dog biscuits baked just for them by Waveny’s Adult Day participants. For more information on Waveny’s Adult Day Program, which offers flexible days and free local door-to-door transportation throughout most of lower Fairfield County, call 203.594.5429 or visit waveny.org.

photos provided

Boomers & Beyond - Fairfield County

Rowan Researchers develop blood test that detects early Alzheimer’s disease

A research team, led by Dr. Robert Nagele from Rowan University School of Osteopathic Medicine and Durin Technologies, Inc., has announced the development of a blood test that leverages the body’s immune response system to detect an early stage of Alzheimer’s disease – referred to as the mild cognitive impairment (MCI) stage – with unparalleled accuracy. In a “proof of concept” study involving 236 subjects, the test demonstrated an overall accuracy, sensitivity and specificity rate of 100 percent in identifying subjects whose MCI was actually caused by an early stage of Alzheimer’s disease.

“About 60 percent of all MCI patients have MCI caused by an early stage of Alzheimer’s disease. The remaining 40 percent of cases are caused by other factors, including vascular issues, drug side-effects and depression. To provide proper care, physicians need to know which cases of MCI are due to early Alzheimer’s and which are not,” said Cassandra DeMarshall, the study’s lead author, and a PhD candidate at the Rowan University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences.

“Our results show that it is possible to use a small number of blood-borne autoantibodies to accurately diagnose early-stage Alzheimer’s.

These findings could eventually lead to the development of a simple, inexpensive and relatively noninvasive way to diagnose this devastating disease in its earliest stages.”

July, 2016

The researchers presented their results in an article published in Alzheimer’s & Dementia: Diagnosis, Assessment & Disease Monitoring that also reported the test’s ability to accurately “stage the disease,” meaning it can distinguish early-stage Alzheimer’s at MCI from later, more advanced stages. The test was also disease-specific. It readily distinguished early Alzheimer’s at the MCI stage from other diseases including Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, and early stage breast cancer.

According to the authors, early diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease and the ability to stage the disease through a simple blood test would offer many potential benefits. Patients could possibly delay disease progression through lifestyle adjustments, begin treatment sooner and plan future medical care. Clinicians would have a way to measure the effectiveness of therapeutic intervention and clinical trials could enroll patients who were truly at the earliest stage of their disease.

This research was supported, in part, by the Osteopathic Heritage Foundation and the Michael J. Fox Foundation.

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PAGE 9

(914) 636-2800

How to choose the retirement community that’s right for you PAGE 10

July, 2016

Boomers & Beyond - Fairfield County

Whether you’re looking for a place of relaxation or to socialize with people in the same stage of life as you, there’s a lot of things to consider when choosing the retirement community that’s right for you.

As you get wiser in your years, the time may come when any old regular community just doesn’t make the cut. Whether you need some living assistance, want to be around people closer to your age or just want to be some place quieter, it may be time to look into a retirement community.

Here’s an in-depth look on how to find the retirement community that’s right for you:

Suiting your needs and age range

When considering retirement communities, it’s important to consider the needs you have in mind and your age, as the majority will have age limits on who can buy a home in the community.

Whether you’re just looking for a place where you don’t have to mow your lawn anymore, or a place you can meet others in the same stage of life as you, there are options for everyone.

Live your lifestyle

Are you looking for an active lifestyle and a place you can socialize, or a quiet home where you can just relax alone or spend time with your spouse?

Whatever your lifestyle may be, it’s important to ask questions before deciding on your community. A community’s sales representative will be happy to discuss their available benefits and levels of care so you can decide which place is best for you now and later on down the road.

Amazing amenities

When you’re touring prospective retirement communities, don’t forget to take a peek at the amenities. If you’re going to be living there, it’s good to know which place gives you the most bang for your buck.

Here’s a list of common amenities retirement communities can offer: • Fitness and aquatic centers • Wellness clinics • Salons and spas • Dining venues • Social centers and activity programs • Housekeeping and linen services

source: www.newhomesource.com

• Scheduled transportation • Exterior maintenance and landscaping • Emergency protocols • Spiritual services • Assisted living services

And don’t forget to check and see which utilities are included in the monthly bill!

Where to look

With so much to look into and to take into consideration, starting your search may seem overwhelming. But it doesn’t have to be!

Many great websites can help you find your next home, including FrontPorch.net, RetiredBrains.com and NewHomeSource.com.

Prepare a checklist of must-haves and questions for each community you consider under the following categories where applicable: • First impression • Living area and accommodations • Moving in, contracts and finances • Health and personal care services • Social and recreational availabilities • Dining facilities and options

Taking all of this into account, you shouldn’t have any problems choosing the perfect retirement community. Go ahead, live that life of retirement you’ve been dreaming of. You deserve it!

Boomers & Beyond - Fairfield County

July, 2016

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Waveny Art Therapy leader showcases collection within her Organization PAGE 12

July, 2016

Boomers & Beyond - Fairfield County

Brenda Jacobsen, Waveny therapeutic recreation leader, showcases her own collection of work in the halls of the organization she serves.

Waveny LifeCare Network welcomed the vibrant artwork of its very own therapeutic recreation leader and art therapist, Brenda Jacobsen, to its front lobby walls with a resident Gallery Opening & Reception.

“I’m so honored to display my paintings here where I work at Waveny,” said Jacobsen.

“Every day I help our residents express their emotions creatively through art, so it’s very special to show them my own love of color relationships, texture, shape and the unexpected moments that happen when the paint is on the canvas.”

“People stop and it lifts their spirits – it’s happy work,” said Gerald, a resident at Waveny Care Center. “Her paintings are what artwork should be. They’re multi-dimensional in a way that allows you to become involved with them. I see them as sunshine.”

Jacobsen says her passion for teaching Waveny’s residents about art influences her own creative expression. “I’m inspired by our residents and learn so much from them through the art we do together. It means a lot to discuss my work in a whole new way

with residents who have known me for so long. Their comments and feedback make my paintings come to life. It’s as though I’ve come full circle, now getting to share with them how they inspire my imagination and inform my point of view.”

“Brenda is incredibly resident-focused, always working diligently behind the scenes, so it’s wonderful to watch her personal and professional passions for art intersect and shine,” said Lauren Elker, Waveny’s director of therapeutic recreation.

“When I watch Brenda lead art therapy sessions, I’m always touched by her great patience and commitment to helping each resident uniquely define their own signature style. Because her nature is to nurture expressiveness in others first, I’m overjoyed see her own perspective highlighted in such a meaningful way.”

Creative expression through visual art is one of the many powerful therapeutic modalities the non-profit organization employs throughout its continuum of eldercare. Music therapy, dance therapy and interactive storytelling are also widespread within resident, patient and Adult Day programming. “I’m grateful to have a career where I can use my creative abilities to help others,” said Jacobsen.

“My art mentors helped to draw out my own creative voice, so I enjoy empowering our residents to do the same.”

For more information, please call 1-855-WAVENY-1 or visit waveny.org.

photos provided

Boomers & Beyond - Fairfield County

July, 2016

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Caring for an Aging Spine PAGE 14

July, 2016

Boomers & Beyond - Fairfield County

Thanks to the Baby Boom generation, a tsunami of aging adults virtually guarantees more Americans over age 65 in coming years than at any point in history. But here's what else it guarantees: more people with aging spines who suffer from back pain, according to Kaliq Chang, MD, of Atlantic Spine Center.

Rates of back pain - experienced by 8 in 10 American adults regardless of age - only increase with advancing years because of the gradual breakdown of bone, joints and muscles. But all is not lost with the passage of time: Older adults can take many effective steps to build their back strength and prevent spine-related pain, explains Dr. Chang, an interventional pain management specialist.

“An aging body means the spine is aging, too,” Dr. Chang says. “But while certain back conditions are more common among older adults, there are also more ways than ever to combat the effects of getting older on the spine.”

Common conditions in aging spines The incidence of certain spine conditions increases in seniors, Dr. Chang notes.

These include:

Arthritis: The accumulation of wear and tear on the joints, arthritis is likely the most common spine problem of age simply because the spine is comprised of three joints between each two vertebrae - with a total of 25 joint levels from top to bottom of the spine, Dr. Chang says.

Herniated discs: The gel-like discs between each set of spinal vertebrae naturally lose water content over time, making them more likely to flatten under the vertebrae's weight and become herniated. This outward protrusion can place pressure on spinal nerves, causing pain, Dr. Chang says.

Spinal stenosis: A narrowing of the spinal column that often results from arthritis or injuries, spinal stenosis places pressure on the highly sensitive nerves of the spinal cord, he says.

Spondylolisthesis: This problem occurs when a single vertebra slips out of place, causing the entire spinal column to become unstable and increasing the chances of a back injury. Since ligaments and other connective tissues lose strength and elasticity in older adults over time, spondylolisthesis becomes more common in this group, Dr. Chang says.

Frail vertebrae from osteoporosis: Bone density typically decreases in seniors, with many developing the bone-weakening condition osteoporosis. This condition leads to a heightened risk of fractures.

Tips to build strength and prevent back pain

Exercise: Unquestionably, regular physical activity can not only ease muscle tension and inflammation, but strengthen back muscles.

“This helps your core to be stronger and more supportive of your spinal column,” Dr. Chang explains, “making injuries less likely.”

Maintain a healthy weight: Extra pounds, particularly around the middle, can shift your center of gravity and strain your lower back. “Staying within 10 pounds of your ideal weight is the goal, and may help control back pain,” he says.

Practice good posture: Keep knees a little higher than your hips while seated, and look for chairs with a straight back or lower-back support. Also, when walking, keep your head up and your abdomen muscles pulled in.

Lift carefully: Always lift heavy or bulky objects by bending at the knees, not at the waist. “Don't twist while lifting,” Dr. Chang advises, “and if it's possible, push rather than pull heavy objects.”

If, despite all efforts, you're dealing with back problems, consider visiting a spine specialist for a firm diagnosis and course of action, Dr. Chang says. Treatment may include prescription or over-the-counter medications, steroid injections, physical therapy or surgery.

For more information visit www.atlanticspinecenter.com.

Boomers & Beyond - Fairfield County

July, 2016

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July, 2016

Boomers & Beyond - Fairfield County

Summer skin care tips for seniors

Along with warm weather, abundant sunlight and blooming buds, summer brings high temperatures, allergens and humidity - all of which can wreak havoc on seniors' skin. Fortunately, there are several steps adults can adopt in their beauty routines to strengthen their skins' health.

Both men and women in retirement communities can benefit from these tips, which cover how to keep the body's exterior healthy despite the temperature, weather or other unwanted conditions.

You are what you eat The items that seniors place inside of their bodies are some of the greatest factors that affect the health of their outside. Foods can be replete with nutrients that can replenish skin health.

When choosing foods to improve the skin's firmness, opt for those high in omega-3 fatty acids.

The Cleveland Clinic recommended certain fish, including salmon, tuna and mackerel, as they are chock full of this nutrient.

Other foods that are good for the skin include fruits and vegetables of all sorts, as these are filled with antioxidants, which can help keep the skin looking healthy and younger.

Moisturizing is key Spring months offer the perfect time to enjoy the splendor of the sun, whether by basking by the pool or playing with grandchildren in the park, but as the temperature rises, so does seniors' risk of dry skin. According to the National Institute on Aging, there are several factors that contribute to this chronic condition, including prolonged exposure to the sun, dehydration and sweating. To combat dry skin, seniors should be sure to apply moisturizer, ointment or lotion frequently. These items can not only rehydrate the area, but they can also prevent skin from drying out later in the day.

1. Drink plenty of liquids Dehydration is the root of many heat related health problems. Drink plenty of water or juice, even if you're not thirsty. Avoid alcoholic or caffeinated drinks, they can contribute to dehydration.

4. Take it easy Avoid exercise and strenuous activity, particularly outdoors, when it's very hot out.

Seven tips for avoiding elderly heat stroke and heat exhaustion

2. Wear appropriate clothes When it's hot out, wear light-colored, lightweight, loose-ďŹ tting clothes and a widebrimmed hat.

3. Stay indoors during mid-day hours During periods of extreme heat, the best time to run errands or be outdoors is before 10am or after 6pm, when the temperature tends to be cooler.

5. Watch the heat index When there's a lot of moisture in their air (high humidity), the body's ability to cool itself through sweating is impaired. The heat index factors humidity and temperature to approximate how the how the weather really feels.

7. Know the warning signs Dizziness, nausea, headache, rapid heartbeat, chest pain, fainting and breathing problems are all warning signs that help should be sought immediately.

Be mindful of your products When seniors are choosing their beauty products, which may include makeup, lotions or soaps, it's essential to be mindful of the ingredients found within, as some may be healthier than others. Older adults may have sensitive skin, so they should opt for exfoliants that are not too rough or grainy, as those can further irritate the area. Additionally, seniors using makeup products should carefully examine expiration dates, as those that have been used past their prime time may lead to consequences for the skin.

6. Seek air-conditioned environments Seniors whose houses aren't air-conditioned should consider ďŹ nding an air-conditioned place to spend time during extreme heat. The mall, library or movie theater are all popular options. During heat waves, many cities also set up "cooling centers," air-conditioned public places, for seniors and other vulnerable populations. source: provided

Boomers & Beyond - Fairfield County

July, 2016

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Tips and techniques for the senior gardener PAGE 18

July, 2016

Boomers & Beyond - Fairfield County

Gardening is America’s favorite leisure outdoor activity, enjoyed by more than 78 million people, according to the National Gardening Association. For most of us, gardening provides a welcome sojourn in the natural world, a sanctuary that promises relief from the challenges of life. Yet many feel the need to give it up as they become less physically able. Gardening can enrich the life of the senior gardener in many ways - physically, mentally, and spiritually.

The following tips for modifying tools and gardening techniques can make all the difference for the senior gardener.

• Paint your garden tools with a bright color. This will enable the senior gardener to easily locate tools.

• Purchase seed and seed tape for easier handling and planting.

• Grow plants that heighten the sense of touch or smell.

• Use a vertical garden or trellis. This allows the senior gardener to plant and weed without stooping or bending.

• Build and design raised beds that provide a place to sit and garden.

• Try using a stool, chair, or bench to avoid constant stooping or squatting.

• Use the right length tools. Long handled or curved handled tools provide better grips and more leverage.

• For safety sake, garden early in the morning or late in the day.

Avoid being out between 10:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m.

• Drink plenty of decaffeinated fluids to prevent dehydration.

• Take time for breaks in the shade.

• Wear lightweight clothing, long sleeved shirt, eye protection, sunscreen, a big hat to shade face, and gardening gloves.

Source: grability.missouri.edu

Summer Cucumber and Dill Salad

Straight from a loving grandmother’s kitchen comes this wonderful way to celebrate the bounty of garden cucumbers.

Mixed with onion and sea salt and then chilled, the cucumbers take on a tendercrisp texture. Plan ahead to make this simple salad, as it requires several hours of refrigeration before serving.

Ingredients: 3 medium cucumbers, peeled and very thinly sliced 1 small white onion, very thinly sliced 2 teaspoons fine sea salt, plus one pinch salt 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh dill or 1 teaspoon dried

Method: In a large colander, toss together cucumbers, onion and 2 teaspoons salt.

Place the colander over a bowl to catch draining liquid and refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours. Cucumbers will shrink considerably as salt releases their moisture.

Rinse cucumbers and onion under cold running water and let drain thoroughly, about 20 minutes, then transfer to a bowl. Add vinegar, dill and pinch of salt and toss to combine.

Cover and refrigerate for 1 to 2 hours before serving.

Source: stacyknows

Boomers & Beyond - Fairfield County

July, 2016

PAGE 19

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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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5 Coates Drive Suite 2 Goshen, NY 10924 (845)294-1234

30 Greenridge Avenue Suite 207 White Plains, NY 10605 (914)328-8555

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105 Stevens Avenue Suite 101 Mount Vernon, NY 10550 (914)667-8777

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July, 2016

Boomers & Beyond - Fairfield County