Fairfield County Boomers & Beyond 2016 ebook

Boomers d n o y e &B August 2016

FairďŹ eld County

Excellence in Dementia Care at the Greens at Greenwich p3 Star One Home Care and Medical StaďŹƒng Free in-home assessment p7 Write your next chapter at Whitney Center p9

August 21, 2016 is National Senior Citizens Day Boomers & Beyond - Fairfield County

August, 2016

On National Senior Citizens Day we celebrate the people who are part of the fastest-growing demographic in the world. According to the traditional definition, a senior citizen is anyone older than 60 years of age, but this seems relatively young in today’s society! When it comes to new technologies, adults above the age of 55 represent 65% of all “early adopters.” This demographic is also the most politically engaged segment of the population. Almost 80% of all senior citizens vote in a presidential election, while the overall voter turnout is usually around just 50%.

President Ronald Reagan proclaimed the first National Senior Citizens Day in 1988. In his explanation he wrote that, “Older citizens are reinforcing their historical roles as leaders and as links with our patrimony and sense of purpose as individuals and as a Nation.” Now there’s something worth celebrating!

In honor of National Senior Citizens Day, spend time with your favorite relatives or make a commitment to volunteer at a retirement home sometime in the next year. If you are a senior citizen yourself, check for special promotions and giveaways at your favorite restaurants and shops! source: www.punchbowl.com

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Kennedy named Waveny’s Director of Facilities PAGE 4

August, 2016

Waveny LifeCare Network is pleased to announce the appointment of Patrick Kennedy as Director of Facilities for the non-profit eldercare organization.

“We are delighted to have Patrick join our management team and know he will further our success in this important role,” said Ray Wilkens, Waveny’s Campus Administrator.

“His seasoned background in facility operations and his commitment to continually raising the bar of excellence higher and higher is a natural fit for our 5-star rated organization.”

As Director of Facilities, Kennedy will manage and oversee the mechanical systems, facility operations and construction projects throughout the healthcare organization’s main campus on Farm Road – a 100,000 square foot operation – as well as at The Inn, Waveny’s independent living community on Oenoke Ridge. He will also chair Waveny’s Safety Committee.

Kennedy brings decades of experience in facility management with expertise in healthcare to his new position, and credits his co-op experience at IBM very early on in his career for grooming his high standards and expectations. A graduate of two separate 2-year technical schools, Kennedy’s strong desire to remain at the forefront of his craft has led him to pursue numerous continuing education opportunities over the years in areas like A/C and electrical work. “You need to stay timely and current to be a responsible leader in facilities management – particularly in the fast-paced, ever-changing field of healthcare, and especially at a wellrespected center of excellence like Waveny,” said Kennedy. “I have a talented and supportive team, and we must always be moving forward and prepared to tackle new challenges with quality and customer service at the heart of everything we do.”

Kennedy says his sense of drive and accomplishment in the workplace is reflected by a variety of personally fulfilling outside interests including running 10K races, fly fishing and competitive baking.

Boomers & Beyond - Fairfield County

Waveny LifeCare Network provides a comprehensive continuum of healthcare to serve the changing needs of older adults from all areas. Waveny is a non-profit organization that offers independent living at The Inn, assisted living and respite care for people with memory impairment at The Village, and skilled nursing, inpatient and outpatient Rehabilitation Services at Waveny Care

Center. It also includes the Brown Geriatric Evaluation Clinic, an Adult Day Program that provides free door-to-door transportation throughout most of lower Fairfield County, and an array of community-based services through Waveny Home Healthcare, Waveny at Home and Geriatric Care Management. For more information, call 1-855WAVENY-1 or visit www.waveny.org.

How to find the right nursing home

Boomers & Beyond - Fairfield County

August, 2016

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The decision to move a loved one into a long term care facility (LTC) may have to be made during stressful times. After a hospital stay elderly loved ones may be well enough to leave the hospital but not well enough to go home. t lis Family members may need to quickly make some difficult decision. Dependck Nursing Home Che ing on the illness, a nursing home may be their home for a very long time, and alert? well cared for, happy, k loo nts ide therefore choose wisely. If you have chosen to move ahead with moving res Do 4 ged in activities? your loved one to a LTC nursing facility, how can you tell which facility nts 4 Are residents enga ide and res ctions between staff ? ve 4 What do the intera is best? orti pp friendly, caring and su look like? Is the staff Careful and thoughtful preparation ahead of such a situation will make the nts by name? inDo they call the reside ma ll we d an transition easier for the patient as well as the caregivers and family while an look / smell cle 4 Does the facility b? dra d an ll providing comfort in knowing how such a situation is going to be handled. du or d cheery tained? Is it bright an other? an to ce pla e What environment would the loved one be most comfortable? on m fro 4 Is it easy to move room and ing din the of It is best to visit the nursing home you are considering before making a ity 4 What is the proxim mobility issues. r ide ns co as? decision.

You should call ahead and ask for a time to meet with staff. are other important ilities large enough to fac m oo thr ba Be sure to ask if they have a drop-in policy, then follow up with some d an 4 Are halls s? air lch ee wh ate unannounced visits. od accomm in place? urity precautions are One of the best places to start comparing nursing homes is the nursing 4 What safety / sec d smoke an ers ish fire extingu cy home compare website showing interesting vital statistics - such as how en This can range from erg em escape precautions. Are detectors to patients many dementia patients are heavily medicated - on Medicare approved res clearly posted. evacuations procedu Source: www.sageminder.com nursing homes.

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(914) 636-2800

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August, 2016

Boomers & Beyond - Fairfield County

Advertiser’s Index

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

Jacuzzi Hydrotherapy Shower................................................................11

Jitterbug Flip Cell Phone.........................................................................13

Glen Island Center for Nursing and Rehabilitation..................................5 The Greens at Greenwich........................................................................3

Perfect Sleep Chair.................................................................................17

StarOne Home Care & Medical Staffing.................................................7 VNA of Hudson Valley.......................................................................20

Waveny Lifecare Network.......................................................................2 Whitney Center.....................................................................................9

Boomers nd

WOW Computer.................................................................................15 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. 8 - 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 In this month’s Boomers & Beyond’s page 6, we want to share with you 6 ways to stay active this summer.

1. Visit your local senior center Community senior centers offer a wide-variety of activities to help their members stay active.

2. Join a walking club Walking clubs can be a wonderful change to walking alone or indoors.

3. Go dancing Dancing for 30 minutes a day can often help reduce the risk of heart attack or stroke and can even be an effective form of physical therapy for seniors.

4. Make a splash Swimming a few laps or participating in a water aerobics class can help to increase heart rate and build muscle without risking injury or pain to joints and stiff muscles.

5. Do some gardening Lifting, raking, digging and even weeding are great forms of exercise for seniors.

6. Take a balance class Balance classes are wonderful for those seniors who not only want to stay active, but also are at risk for falling.

Get in touch at info@healthcarenewspaper.com.

Jim Stankiewicz, General Manager

Next Month Retirement Communities The best options for your retired years Hearing Aid Awareness Month Latest state-of-the-art hearing aids National Assisted Living Week The best options when care is needed Gerontological Nursing Week Care and well being of older adults Cancer Awareness Month

Balancing increased caregiver needs during the summer months Boomers & Beyond - Fairfield County

Use these tips to help you balance increased caregiver needs during the summer months:The summer months can be especially challenging for caregivers who are in the sandwich generation. These are the adults who are “sandwiched” between raising their children and taking care of their senior parent. During the summer season children who were in school during the fall, winter, and spring months are now home, and the temperatures are creeping up so high that it is important to keep both old and young safe and healthy by keeping them cool and out of the sun. Balancing these needs and making sure that everyone gets the care they need can be demanding, but with careful planning and the help of a home care provider, it can be done.

Do not overdo it.

Your first thought during these months may be to pack your schedule as full of activities and events as you can to make sure that your parent and your children are occupied. While the summer months offer fantastic opportunities for entertainment, leisure, and celebration, doing too much can quickly burn your family out and leave them unable to enjoy it.

Be cautious in your scheduling and be sure to give each activity or event plenty of time so that you do not feel rushed.

Keep up the structure.

Three months of relaxation and leisure may sound great, but the truth is that most people get bored when they have no structure in their life.

Avoid the cries of “I’m bored” within the first couple of weeks of summer vacation by keeping up the structure in your children’s lives. Look for day camp opportunities that give them something to look forward to each day or a few times a week. This will keep them getting up at a set time and stimulate their minds, reducing the stress that can come from bored, stir-crazy children.

Find “camp” for your parent.

Your children do not have to be the only ones who enjoy learning and doing new things in the summer months. Talk to your parent about activities that they enjoy or interests that they have and set up your own “summer camp” for them. Go on outings, do crafts or projects involving that interest, or do research together to learn more.

Share the time.

During the rest of the year your care tasks for your parent and your children are largely divided. This does not have to stay this way during the summer. Instead, find ways that you can combine care for both generations. This not only prevents you from having to spread yourself so thin, allowing you to devote more time and energy to all of your loved ones, but it also gives them the chance to benefit from one another. Consider joining a local water park or activity center where you can all go together and enjoy quality time that lets you experience things as a family or individually as you please.

August, 2016

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If you or an aging loved one are considering caregiver services in NY, Westchester CT, contact Star One Home Care and Medical Staffing at 212 847-2826, 718-733-2222 ,914-362-0899 or 203-914-9668. Call today!

Transforming healthcare with in home care services that put clients and their families first.

Star One provides outstanding, person-focused quality home care services. Our highly skilled caregivers offer clients in-home support for well-being, personal care, home care, housekeeping, social connection, health treatments, rehabilitation, assisted daily living, nursing and allied health services and transport.

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 New York City 212-874-2826 Westchester 914-362-0899 New York 718-733-2222

www.staronehomecare.com info@staronehomecare.com

Estate Planning—Preparing for your future PAGE 8

August, 2016

Boomers & Beyond - Fairfield County

Believe it or not, you have an estate. In fact, nearly everyone does. Your estate is comprised of everything you own— your car, home, other real estate, checking and savings accounts, investments, life insurance, furniture, personal possessions. No matter how large or how modest, everyone has an estate and something in common—you can’t take it with you when you die.

To ensure your wishes are carried out, you need to provide instructions stating whom you want to receive something of yours, what you want them to receive, and when they are to receive it. You will, of course, want this to happen with the least amount paid in taxes, legal fees, and court costs.

That is estate planning—making a plan in advance and naming whom you want to receive the things you own after you die.

distributed to your heirs. (If you own property in other states, your family will probably face multiple probates, each one according to the laws in that state.) The process varies greatly from state to state, but it can become expensive with legal fees, executor fees, and court costs.

For these reasons a revocable living trust is preferred by many families and professionals. It can avoid probate at death (including multiple probates if you own property in other states), prevent court control of assets at incapacity, bring all of your assets (even those with beneficiary designations) together into one plan, provide maximum privacy, is valid in every state, and can be changed by you at any time.

The best time to plan your estate is now.

None of us really likes to think about our own mortality or the possibility of being unable to make decisions for ourselves. This is exactly why so many families are caught offguard and unprepared when incapacity or death does strike. Don’t wait. You can put something in place now and change it later…which is exactly the way estate planning should be done.

Estate Planning Essentials

Estate planning is for everyone.

It is not just for “retired” people, although people do tend to think about it more as they get older. Unfortunately, we can’t successfully predict how long we will live, and illness and accidents happen to people of all ages.

Estate planning is not just for “the wealthy,” either, although people who have built some wealth do often think more about how to preserve it. Good estate planning often means more to families with modest assets, because they can afford to lose the least.

Too many people don’t plan.

Individuals put off estate planning because they think they don’t own enough, they’re not old enough, they’re busy, think they have plenty of time, they’re confused and don’t know who can help them, or they just don’t want to think it. Then, when something happens to them, their families have to pick up the pieces.

If you don’t have a plan, your state has one for you, but you probably won’t like it.

If you die without an intentional estate plan, your assets will be distributed according to the probate laws in your state. In many states, if you are married and have children, your spouse and children will each receive a share. That means your spouse could receive only a fraction of your estate, which may not be enough to live on. If you have minor children, the court will control their inheritance. If both parents die (i.e., in a car accident), the court will appoint a guardian without knowing whom you would have chosen.

An estate plan begins with a will or living trust.

A will provides your instructions, but it does not avoid probate. Any assets titled in your name or directed by your will must go through your state’s probate process before they can be

• Include instructions for passing your values (religion, education, hard work, etc.) in addition to your valuables.

• Include instructions for your care if you become disabled before you die.

• Name a guardian and an inheritance manager for minor children.

• Provide for family members with special needs without disrupting government benefits.

• Provide for loved ones who might be irresponsible with money or who may need future protection from creditors or divorce.

• Include life insurance, disability income insurance and long-term care insurance • Provide for the transfer of your business at your retirement, disability, or death.

• Minimize taxes, court costs, and unnecessary legal fees.

• Be an ongoing process. Your plan should be reviewed and updated as your family and financial situations (and laws) change over your lifetime.

Source:www.estateplanning.com

Boomers & Beyond - Fairfield County

Treatment of intractable pain has come a long way— August, 2016

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Medical advances help Neurosurgeons treat patients with chronic pain

Chronic pain is longstanding pain that persists beyond the usual recovery period or occurs along with a chronic health condition. It may be intermittent or continuous. It may affect people to the point that they cannot work, eat properly, participate in physical activity, or even enjoy life.

The most commonly treated conditions that cause pain include atypical facial pain, failed spinal surgery, phantom limb pain, stroke, and headache.

Neurosurgeons treat chronic pain with state-of-the-art medical technology.

To find out more informationm or to locate a qualified neurosurgeon in your area, visit: www.NeurosurgeryToday.org.

● Microvascular decompression involves microsurgical exposure of the trigeminal nerve root, identification of a blood vessel that might be compressing the nerve, and gentle displacement of it away from the point of compression.

● Radiofrequency rhizotomy treats trigeminal neuralgia through the use of electrocoagulation (heat). It is also used to treat any area of the spine—cervical, thoracic, or lumbar.

● Glycerol rhizotomy utilizes glycerol injected through a needle into the area where the nerve divides into three main branches.

The goal is to selectively damage the nerve in order to interfere with the transmission of the pain signals to the brain.

● Stereotactic radiation uses computer-guided radiation aimed precisely at the appropriate target. Over a period of time and as a result of radiation exposure, the slow formation of a lesion in the nerve interrupts transmission of pain signals to the brain.

● Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is a surgical technique that involves the placement of a fine electrode (wire) into specific parts of the brain. DBS works by delivering a continuous electrical pulse to regions of the brain involved in the processing of pain signals. ● Spinal cord stimulation is a pain relief technique that delivers a low-voltage electrical current continuously to the spinal cord to block the sensation of pain. It works by stopping painful impulses from reaching the brain. It may be effective in treating unresponsive pain from prior back surgeries, chronic sciatica, nerve damage, and peripheral vascular disease.

Boomers & Beyond - Fairfield County

How to organize Summer travel with seniors PAGE 10

August, 2016

9 planning tips for taking seniors on vacation

Summer means vacations, but when you’re a caregiver you might think traveling with an elderly parent who requires special care is out of the question. In fact, with a little planning and scaling your trip to meet everyone’s needs, you can still get away and have an enjoyable time. Here are some helpful tips for planning travel:

1 Keep it simple: If your parent has limited mobility, renting a one-story lake-front cottage within driving distance will be more enjoyable than a whirlwind jaunt overseas or a trip cross-country. If your expectations are in line with your reality, you’re likely to have a less stressful getaway.

2 Tailor travel to your needs: If driving, consider renting a larger vehicle to accommodate your space needs.

Inform your airline or hotel about special requirements, such as a wheelchair, meals or first floor lodging or adjoining suites.

3 Think ahead: Familiarize yourself with your destination before you go.

Locate medical facilities, pharmacies and grocery stores.

4 Bring prescriptions: If your trip involves flying, be sure that medication is in its original container and check with your doctor’s office about whether you will need any special certificate for traveling with certain meds.

And be sure to review medication side effects, such as exposure to the sun or interaction with certain foods.

5 Pack appropriately: Take along support stockings for extended road trips or flights and a backup of medical supplies. Have snacks and plenty of water at the ready. Even if your destination offers such provisions, you’ll be better able to enjoy yourself if you have them on hand.

6 Minimize distractions and maximize familiarity: A new environment may be confusing to a parent with dementia.

Bring a few favorite objects to create a sense of home, and try to maintain your loved one’s routine as much as possible.

7 Plan shifts: You might be the primary caregiver at home, but remind your family that this is your vacation, too.

Set up a schedule so that everyone who’s old enough has a few hours where he or she is responsible for your parent.

8 Line up help at your destination: If your parent needs help with personal care or has a condition that requires skilled nursing care, contact a home health care agency to arrange for services from a home health aide or nurse. And check in as to whether there are any adult day care centers nearby.

9 Pace yourself: Your elderly relative might not be able to keep up with certain activities, so be sure to work a fair share of rest and downtime into your trip.

And don’t forget to take full advantage of the lulls—after all, you’re on vacation.

source:www.vnsny.org/caregivers/home-safety

Boomers & Beyond - Fairfield County

August, 2016

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Boomers & Beyond - Fairfield County

Griffin Hospital to host Advanced Care Planning talk PAGE 12

August, 2016

Griffin Hospital and Valley Senior Services will host a free talk on how to plan for future healthcare and medical decisions on Thurs., Aug. 18 at 5:30 p.m. at the hospital, 130 Division St., Derby.

Daun Barrett, RN, director of Griffin Hospital Community Outreach and Valley Parish Nurses, and Diane Betkoski, MS, RD, LNHA, director of Planetree Services at Griffin Hospital, will discuss the three stages of Advanced Care Planning in which individuals discuss and decide their future healthcare wishes in the event that they unable to speak for themselves while at a healthcare facility.

“In life, we plan for our careers, our families and for retirement. In effort to honor one’s healthcare wishes, to promote quality of life and provide peace of mind, it is important to begin these important conversations about end of life sooner rather than later to ensure one’s wishes are honored,” Barrett said.

A light dinner will be served.

This presentation is funded by the United Way and TEAM, Inc.

To register, contact Kathleen at 203-7365420 extension 225.

The importance of oral health for older adults As the old adage says, with age comes wisdom. And as we all grow older, certain health concerns earn our full attention. One of those concerns is the importance of oral health for seniors.

We all only get one set of permanent teeth, so it's crucial to take care of them for our entire lives.

Gum disease, sensitive teeth, diabetes and dry mouth are just some of the conditions that stress the importance of oral health in older adults. Let's take a look at these in a bit more detail.

Sensitive Teeth At some point, we've all tossed back a nice, cold glass of water only to grimace at that sharp, tingling sensation in our teeth. A number of factors cause tooth sensitivity, including cavities, gum disease and worn tooth enamel. Proper brushing and using a toothpaste for sensitive teeth will gradually appease that sensitivity.

Diabetes Diabetes occurs when your body's blood glucose exceeds normal levels, according to the American Diabetes Association. There are two types of diabetes – Type 1 and Type 2. The latter is far more common, and typically occurs in older adults due to a poor or worsening diet.

Type 1 is found in children and young adults.

Those with diabetes are at much greater risk for gum disease, thrush (resulting from a fungus that grows in the mouth) and dry mouth.

Here a few important tips on how to keep your mouth in good health:

• • •

Dry Mouth A lack of saliva in the mouth results in the condition known as dry mouth. It's usually caused by medications taken for other medical issues, which can become more prevalent as you get older. The biggest concern associated with dry mouth is tooth and root decay, both of which can lead to infections and tooth loss.

•

Maintain regular dental visits.

Even if you're a denture wearer, getting your gums checked is still important.

Don't forget to brush twice each day, and use toothpaste that contains fluoride.

After you brush, floss. Cleaning between your teeth ensures healthy gums and teeth.

If you wear full or partial dentures, remember to clean them on a daily basis. Take your dentures out of your mouth for at least four hours every day. It’s best to remove them at night.

Source: www.colgate.com

Boomers & Beyond - Fairfield County

August, 2016

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August, 2016

Boomers & Beyond - Fairfield County

WeddingBells at Waveny

Wedding bells were ringing on “Main Street” at The Village, as Waveny’s residents, patients and Adult Day Program participants enjoyed an entire day of activities and programs devoted to tying the knot!

The “icing on the cake” was a magnificent walk down the aisle by Waveny staff, volunteers and Adult Day participants, modeling stunning wedding dresses and attire. We were positively love-struck!

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

August, 2016

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August, 2016

Boomers & Beyond - Fairfield County

The celebration at Greenwich Hospital begins as Sue Brown, RN, executive vice president of Operations and Patient Care Services and chief nursing officer, flanked

by Norman G. Roth, hospital president, and Priscilla Sterne, RN, Magnet program director, learns that the hospital has received the prestigious Magnet designation from the American Nurses Credentialing Center.

Greenwich Hospital achieves Magnet® Designation provided

Joins elite national group of Magnet hospitals

Greenwich Hospital has received the prestigious Magnet designation from the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), placing it among the approximately seven percent of the more than 5,600 hospitals nationwide – and one of only six in Connecticut – to achieve this distinguished honor.

Magnet designation is the highest honor of nursing excellence that any hospital can achieve. Greenwich’s Magnet designation is the culmination of several years of preparation and commitment to evidence-based nursing practices and patient care through quality improvements as well as interdisciplinary collaboration.

“The Magnet designation recognizes Greenwich Hospital at a national level for the excellent patient care and clinical outcomes we witness every day. Our motto of ‘Exceptional Nurses, Exceptional Care’ accurately reflects the level of expertise and dedication of our nursing staff throughout every corner of the organization. This achievement is a testament to our culture of excellence,” said Susan Brown, RN,

MSN, executive vice president of Operations and Patient Care Services and chief nursing officer at Greenwich Hospital.

“This honor underscores Greenwich Hospital’s ongoing commitment to provide the best possible patient experience,” said Norman G. Roth, the hospital’s president. “Magnet designation provides the ultimate benchmark for patients and their families to measure the quality of care they can expect at a hospital. The hard work and dedication of our nurses ultimately elevates the work environment of all staff and physicians.”

The Magnet Recognition Program® recognizes healthcare organizations for quality patient care, nursing excellence and innovations in professional practice. To achieve Magnet status, Greenwich Hospital submitted a comprehensive Magnet manuscript in February that included scores of documented examples of nursing excellence and quality patient outcomes at Greenwich Hospital. In June, four Magnet appraisers spent three days at the hospital assessing patient

care and outcomes. Magnet hospitals must undergo re-evaluation every four years to retain the designation.

According to ANCC, healthcare organizations that achieve Magnet status are better equipped to attract and retain top talent; improve patient care, safety and satisfaction; foster a collaborative culture; and advance nursing standards and practice.

Greenwich Hospital is a member of Yale New Haven Health System (YNHHS). Greenwich is a 206-bed (includes 32 isolettes) community hospital serving lower Fairfield County, Connecticut and Westchester County, New York. It is a major academic affiliate of Yale School of Medicine. Since opening in 1903, Greenwich Hospital has evolved into a progressive medical center and teaching institution representing all medical specialties and offering a wide range of medical, surgical, diagnostic and wellness programs. Greenwich Hospital is recognized throughout the healthcare industry as a leader in service and patient satisfaction excellence.

Boomers & Beyond - Fairfield County

August, 2016

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Boomers & Beyond - Fairfield County

Hughes Health & Rehabilitation receives the 2016 Women’s Choice Award® as one of America’s Best for Extended Care PAGE 18

August, 2016

Hughes Health & Rehabilitationhas received the 2016 Women’s Choice Award® as one of America’s Best for Extended Care. This evidence-based designation is the only extended care award that identifies the country’s best healthcare institutions based on robust criteria that considers female patient satisfaction, clinical excellence, and what women say they want from an extended care facility or nursing home.

This is the third consecutive year that West Hartford-based Hughes Health has been recognized with a Women’s Choice Award.

“To be honored for three consecutive years with a Women’s Choice Award for America’s Best in Extended Care is a testament to the consistent, unwavering and dedicated care our family of caregivers performs every day here at Hughes. We are very grateful for the recognition bestowed upon us by the Women’s Choice Award and other national organizations in 2016. It inspires us to do and be better continuously,” stated Mark J. Finkelstein, vice president of Hughes Health & Rehabilitation.

The list of under 845 winners out of 15,000+ facilities nationwide, including Hughes Health, represents facilities that have 25 or more beds, and have received at least 18 combined stars in the four categories determined by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) fivestar rating system. The CMS categories are: general staffing, RN staffing, quality rating and inspection survey rating. Awarded facilities must also have a Medicare certification, full sprinkler systems and no recent history of penalties or fines.

“One of the hardest decisions a woman will ever have to make is to choose a nursing home or extended care facility for a loved one. Reducing the risk of making the wrong healthcare choice is our mission,” said Delia Passi, CEO and Founder of the Women’s Choice Award.

For more information on the Women’s Choice Award and recipients, visit http://www.womenschoiceaward.com/awarded/healthcare/

Enjoying a breezy spring day or the warm summer temperatures don’t have to be a distant memory for elders and caregivers. After being cooped up in the house for possibly months at a time, senior adults can breathe in the fresh air, even if they are experiencing mobility problems.

It takes some advance planning and choosing an activity that won't seem like a chore, but it's worth getting out of the house, for you and your elderly parent. Here are 10 outdoor activities for caregivers to enjoy with ther elders.

1. Catch a sporting event.

The events could be watching a grandchild's soccer game, which are not all-day events, or attending a professional game, like baseball.

8. Go fly a kite. Head to a park or beach and get a kite soaring.

Let an elderly individual take control, which they can do while sitting down. If children are around, they can get involved by trying to keep the kite in the air.

How elders and caregivers can take advantage of summer

6. Be a bird lover. If you have a birdhouse, bird feeder or bird bath in your yard, checking on the those daily give elderly individuals a reason to go outside.

3. Be a tourist. If you live in a city, take an open-air bus or trolley tour to see the local sights. Another option could be a boat tour, depending on what type of equipment an elder needs to take with them.

2. Fish for fun. For folks who enjoy fishing, you can cast a rod from a pier or other location, even if someone is wheelchair bound.

5. Stroll around. If a walk is possible, start slow. Try three or four minutes in one direction, turning around and coming back.

10. Celebrate the season. From outdoor concerts to fireworks, there are plenty of community events this summer with opportunities for elders to get out and be part of the crowd.

7. Pedal around. Rent a threewheeled bicycle, which are easier to mount and ride, and also could offer back support.

4. Take a dip. For some folks, it may just be putting a foot in the pool, while others may be able to handle low-impact water aerobics.

9. Picnic outdoors. Picnics are another park or playground activity. Elderly individuals enjoy the buzz of outdoor activity.

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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

180 East Hartsdale Avenue Suite 1E Hartsdale, NY 10530 (914)725-2010

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

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August, 2016

Boomers & Beyond - Fairfield County