Westchester Boomers & Beyond April 2017 ebook

Boomers & Beyond April 2017

Westchester County

Legal advice for Medicaid & Asset-Protection planning.

Call (914) 816-2900 today!

See page 14 Salute to Seniors—Save the date p17

Caring Professionals, Inc. Around since 1994 p10 Brightview, Tarrytown A feeling of home p16

Westchester Audiology Comprehensive hearing services p15

Community Home Health Care Leading provider in home care services p3

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April, 2017

Boomers & Beyond - Westchester

Our Specialty Pro ograms a help yo ou manage a wide range of con nditions at home.

• • • e • • • •

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Call us 24/7 at 1-888-FOR-VNSW www.vns.org

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Westcheste s r Care at HOME An affiliate of VNS Westchester ste

Senior Homecare at its Best!

Boomers & Beyond - Westchester

There’s no place like home. And when your senior loved-ones need superior home care, there’s no place like Community Home Health Care!

“An absolute joy – such a great aide” is typical Community gets about its dedicated services, Home Health Aides, Personal Care Aides and Trained Companions. “The most responsible, loving aide my mother has ever had” is another. For dozens of testimonials from Community’s patient families, go to WestchesterHomecare.com/testimonials/.

With top-rated Aides and over 34 years experience in delivering quality services to the region, Community Home Health Care stands at the forefront of Westchester County's Home Care providers. Community’s core principle is to provide its patients and their families with a personalized, unbeatable homecare experience, summed up in 4 words:

April, 2017

WITH OVER 34 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE, COMMUNITY STANDS AT THE FOREFRONT OF WESTCHESTER COUNTY’S HOME CARE PROVIDERS.

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COMPASSION, TRUST, EXPERTISE AND RELIABILITY Community means peace of mind.

Their home care experts deeply understand your concerns about leaving your loved one in the hands of a stranger, often for extended periods of time. With their unique internal rating system, they provide an aide you can trust to bring the highest level of sensitivity to care for your loved one’s emotional and physical needs. Community’s aides and companions are highly-trained, highly-experienced and New York State-certified, bringing their invaluable knowledge, skills, experience and expertise to your loved one’s care, including supportive help with Medicaid applications.

Community Home Health Care is always there to help you, whenever, wherever you need them – any day, any hour! For more information, call (914) 222-CARE (914-222-2273), or visit Westchester-Homecare.com.

Occupational therapy for seniors has many benefits PAGE 4

April, 2017

Boomers & Beyond - Westchester

4. Better health and wellness. Occupational therapy can have a positive influence on mental health and life satisfaction. Therapists provide a unique educational approach to help seniors redesign their lives to experience greater quality of life, promote longevity and a healthier lifestyle all around.

5. Working with caregivers. Occupational therapists can assess a family’s loved one to help the caregiver make better decisions about their loved one’s daily care needs. They alleviate some of the pressure a caregiver might feel when helping their loved one, which will allow them to separate themselves from core care-giving and maintain their own life.

Occupational therapy, while beneficial to those of all ages, is especially helpful to seniors who are regularly faced with physical, mental or psychological challenges. Therapists collaborate with both the senior and their caregivers to ensure a plan is set that works for everyone and allows all involved to reach their own individual goals.

Occupational therapy is a treatment that involves helping people live more independent and productive lives by incorporating meaningful activities to promote participation in everyday life. It is focused on improving life skills which can lead to better quality of life.

Over one-third of occupational therapists work with seniors after they have been affected by illness, memory loss or injury. They are often elder-care advocates, working to help seniors maintain their independence. One of their most important roles is promoting self-reliance among their patients.

This means helping them overcome their physical challenges or limitations, enabling them to return to a normal life at home where they may continue activities of daily living (ADLs), including cooking, feeding themselves, dressing and grooming. Occupational therapy for seniors takes a somewhat unique stance by focusing on what the person can do.

Occupational therapy is also key during the early stages of memory loss. Therapists are trained to assess a patient’s cognitive ability and use behavioral modification to help address change in their personalities. Occupational therapists can also help adapt a patient’s home for safety, allowing them to maximize their remaining skills to help them maintain their independence. They also educate the family caregivers and connect them with support groups or respite care such as that provided

by American Senior Communities for the emotional assistance they may need. In later stages of memory loss, the therapist can focus on simplifying activities or providing sensory stimulation like soothing music to help improve quality of life.

The Benefits of Occupational Therapy for Seniors 1. Overcoming daily life challenges. Occupational therapy helps seniors compensate for some of the challenges they face each day, whether it be dressing, feeding themselves, home management or participation in social activities.

2. Preventing falls. Falls are the leading cause of injury among seniors, and occupational therapists can help them to problem-solve the best way to stay active while avoiding falls.

3. Home environmental modifications. Occupational therapists can help seniors acquire devices like a bathtub bench or grab bars to make their lives easier. Seniors can learn how they can optimize their homes to promote full participation in activities of daily life.

Source:www.ascseniorcare.com/occupational-therapy-for-seniors/

ATTORNEYS AT LAW Many Years of Experience Protecting the Legal Interests of the Elderly & Special Needs Populations

Advising Families about:

• • • • • • • • •

Medicaid Asset Protection Planning Estate Planning & Administration Special Needs Home Care Long Term Care Health Care Proxies Powers of Attorney Guardianships

See more information on page 14

Client Testimonials

I reached out to you during the most stressful time of life for both my loved ones and myself - horror had occurred to my dear loving mother.

My mom had fractured her hip and due to her frail health and advanced age required risky hip replacement surgery. Many issues legal and otherwise arose which I could not personally resolve. You not only resolved each and every one, but you continue to do so now, over 4 years later.

You always display extreme sincerity, compassion and friendship, using your vast experience and confidence in your ability, to continually bring satisfaction, positive results and a tremendous sense of relief and comfort to my loved ones and myself.

Westchester Financial Center 50 Main Street, Suite #1000 White Plains, NY 10606 Email: Info@ejrosenlaw.com

Tel: (914) 816-2900 www.ejrosenlaw.com

You have gone out of your way to visit Mom on multiple occasions in her Nursing house and we love you for it. As an attorney, friend, and a great man, I could not possibly hope to know anyone more phenomenal. The three greatest men I have ever known are my dear departed father, my dear departed father-in-law and Ely Rosenzveig.

– Jeff D.

I hired Ely to assist with my parents estate planning and it was a wise decision. He is a true expert in navigating through complex elder care law and procedures. His guidance was invaluable and his communication excellent. I would strongly recommend his services.

– Tom C.

Attorney advertising • Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome

ELDER LAW • TRUSTS & ESTATES • TAX ADVOCACY • MEDIATION • EMPLOYMENT LAW

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April, 2017

Boomers & Beyond - Westchester

On the cover…

Five Star Senior Living Courtesy of Five Star Premier Residences of Yonkers

Advertiser’s Index

Our View

Brightview Tarrytown...............................................................................16

This month, we focus on topics ranging from hearing loss to retirement housing – subjects of importance to millions of Americans.

Picking a retirement community that’s the ideal match for an aging loved one can enhance a senior’s quality of life and help them remain more active and comfortable far into their golden years.

In this issue, we take a look at a sample of retirementcommunity options and highlights for senior living.

As we age, hearing loss becomes common - at age 65, one of every three people has diminished hearing, and more than 37 million Americans over age 18 cope with some type of hearing problem.

Our April issue explores a variety of effective, simple ways to manage hearing loss.

We also look at how rehabilitation can help patients overcome injury - and in many cases, literally get back on their feet after a debilitating accident or a challenging medical condition.

The American Cancer Society estimates that nearly 1,700,000 new cancer cases were diagnosed last year.

We devote part of this issue to the importance of cancer awareness to help save lives, and to a consideration of how cancer care makes dealing with the condition less challenging for patients and their families.

As always, we welcome comments and suggestions for what you would like to see in upcoming issues of Boomers & Beyond.

Please get in touch with us at info@healthcarenewspaper.com.

Burke Rehabilitation Hospital.................................................................11 Caring Professionals, Inc.........................................................................10 ColumbiaDoctors..................................................................................19 Community Home Health Care................................................................3 Five Star Premier Residence of Yonkers.............................................13 Ely J. Rosenzveig & Associates, PC...................................................5,14 Star One Home Care & Medical Staffing...............................................18 Victoria Home.......................................................................................4 VNA of Hudson Valley...........................................................................20 VNS Westchester........................................................................................2 The Wartburg.......................................................................................7

Waveny Lifecare Network..................................................................................9 Westchester Audiology.........................................................................15

Boomers

Westchester County Department of Senior Programs and Services..........17

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

Westchester County

& Beyond

PUBLISHER

Joseph P. Belsito (Joe@belsito.com)

••• MARKETING DIRECTOR

Gregory W. Buff

(Greg@belsito.com)

••• MANAGING EDITOR

Cathryn Burak

(Cathy@healthcarenewsmagazine.com)

••• SENIOR SALES CONSULTANT

Maureen Rafferty Linell (MRLinell@charter.net)

••• MARKETING EXECUTIVE

Anthony Mairo

(Anthony@healthcarenewsmagazine.com)

••• CIRCULATION

Michelle Belsito

(Michelle@healthcarenewsmagazine.com)

••• SENIOR CORRESPONDENTS

Dale McKnight

Corporate Information

Healthcare News - Westchester, New York edition - Vol. 10 No. 4- 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 National Senior Health Month Celebrating Older Americans Month Audiologists Better Hearing and Speech Month Arthritis Awareness Month Leading cause of disability in America Melanoma/Skin Cancer Detection and Prevention

Boomers & Beyond - Westchester

April, 2017

PAGE 7

Boomers & Beyond - Westchester

The Inn welcomes ‘Staying Put’ member art exhibit PAGE 8

April, 2017

On Friday, March 3, The Inn hosted a reception welcoming the artwork of Staying Put members to its walls. More than 40 members and friends came to honor the artists and see the exhibit, which includes over 30 works in pastels, oils, watercolors, paper and sculpture. Staying Put is a member-based, volunteer-supported organization dedicated to helping seniors in the New Canaan community live safely in their homes and remain actively engaged in the community as they age. Located at 73 Oenoke Ridge in the heart of New Canaan, The Inn provides carefree, independent senior living and welcomes older adults from all areas. For more information, or to visit for lunch and a tour, call 203.594.5450 or visit waveny.org.

Exhibit Curator, Marjorie Aronson, stands in front of two of her signature paper collages with Barbara Jeffries, Assistant Director of Resident Services of the Inn.

Inn resident, Don Harbour, with Staying Put Board Member, Peggy Jay and Nicola Holzberger

Barbara Jeffries, The Inn's Assistant Director of Resident Services with Inn resident Betty DeAraujo

Mimi McMenniman explains her sculpture to Betty Petschek

Jill Stevens, Nancy Helle and Jeanne Gnuse

photos provided

Boomers & Beyond - Westchester

Change of Leadership at Burke Rehabilitation Hospital announced

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April, 2017

The Board of Trustees of Burke Rehabilitation Hospital recentlyannounced that Chief Executive Officer and Executive Medical Director Mary Beth Walsh, MD will be stepping down after a successful 37-year tenure at the hospital. She has served as Burke’s CEO and Executive Medical director for the past 22 years.

Dr. Walsh put Burke on the map as one of the premiere rehabilitation hospitals in the region and set the pace for all others in the field with her visionary planning and advances in clinical care. A rheumatologist by training, she made it her practice to embrace the new ideas and technological advancements that ushered in a modern era of rehabilitative medicine. Her dedication to patient centered, integrated care has been the bedrock of the hospital’s stellar reputation and is her lasting legacy.

In addition, as an astute administrator in the changing landscape of healthcare, Walsh was the driving force behind forging a partnership with Montefiore Health System and the Albert Einstein College of Medicine.

This partnership facilitated Burke’s creation of a Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation residency program. She was also instrumental in creating a Neurorehabilitation Fellowship to educate the next generation of rehab physicians.

Dr. Walsh is currently a member of the American Hospital Association (AHA) Board of Trustees and a member of its post-acute care steering committee. She also serves on the Board of Directors of the American Medical Rehabilitation Providers Association (AMRPA).

Mary Beth Walsh, MD

Over the years Dr. Walsh has been actively engaged in health care discussions in various arenas, advocating in Washington D.C. for improved health care regulations and quality in postacute care. She has authored several medical journal articles and has received honors for her work, including the Women’s Healthcare Network Founder’s Award and the AMRPA’s INDE Award, which honors those who have had a direct and positive impact on the medical rehabilitation field. In 2013, she received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the New York Chapter of the Arthritis Foundation.

The Board of Burke Rehabilitation Hospital would like to express its deep gratitude to Dr. Walsh for her tremendous contributions in setting the highest standards of care for the full spectrum of patients requiring intensive physical rehabilitation.

Her accomplishments will continue through the patient-focused best practices she helped create.

As part of a smooth transition within the Montefiore/Einstein family, Mr. Jeff Menkes, Montefiore’s Senior Vice President for Network Development, will take over for Dr. Walsh, serving as President and CEO. Mr. Menkes

brings a long and distinguished career in hospital operations and deep experience working side by side with physicians. Dr. Walsh and Mr. Menkes have worked closely since Burke joined the Montefiore Health System in January 2016. Their collaboration will enable Burke to continue its growth and position as the cornerstone of Montefiore Health System’s partner for acute rehabilitative care.

The change in leadership will be effective on April 1, 2017.

The Burke Board of Trustees looks forward to working with Mr. Menkes as he helps navigate Burke through the future opportunities and the challenges of an

Jeffery Menkes

ever-changing healthcare landscape.

The entire Burke/Montefiore family wishes Dr. Walsh and her husband, Tim, the very best for an active and healthy retirement.

Boomers & Beyond - Westchester

Burke Osteoporosis Awareness Group April, 2017

Date: Mon, April 3, 2017

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Time: 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm

The Osteoporosis Awareness Group provides support to individuals suffering from osteoporosis as well as information to those interested in learning ways to decrease their risk of their disease.

Meeting is on Monday, April 3 from 7-9 pm, in the Billings Building, Bldg # 4, Rosedale room.

Contact Susan Gugick, (914) 725-5229, or susanisworking@hotmailcom.

How to choose the retirement community that’s right for you PAGE 12

April, 2017

Boomers & Beyond - Westchester

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.

But what is the difference between a retirement community and a regular community?

“A retirement community offers a plan for the future,” says Jessica Page, director of sales and marketing at Inverness Village in Tulsa, Okla.

“There are services and amenities that help maintain well-being longer. It is purposefully designed with a focus on whole-person wellness that nourishes six components critical to good health: physical, social, emotional, intellectual, vocational and spiritual.”

To make sure those components are met, most retirement communities offer extras like lectures, cultural events, workshops, household maintenance assistance and exercise classes. Some may even offer expert care and support for those who need it. This kind of peace of mind isn’t always available in a regular community.

Starting to sound appealing? 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.

“Needs vary substantially depending on health, physical abilities and age-related needs,” says Art Koff, the 80-year-old founder of RetiredBrains.com, a website that provides content and advice for people who are planning retirement. “The age range can be from the 50s to 90s, as there are younger retirees who need a great deal of assistance and retirees in the 90s who require little.”

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.

“Residents seek retirement communities for a variety of personal and social reasons,” says Joan Woodworth, senior vice president of sales and marketing at Front Porch, one of the largest retirement community providers in California. “However, most residents are tired of keeping up their homes and want freedom from household chores and are interested in more social interaction — and the peace of mind of knowing they will have care when they need it.”

Live Your Lifestyle Next, it’s important to consider the type of lifestyle you want to have in your retirement community.

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.

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 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.

“The key is to choose a community and setting where you are comfortable,” says Woodworth, noting that most retirement communities can be found in metro and surrounding areas.

But how can you tell if the community is actually worth your hard-earned time and money?

Koff suggests preparing a checklist of musthaves 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!

Source:www.newhomesource.com

Boomers & Beyond - Westchester

Experience the Five Star Difference in Senior Living

There is a lot to love at Five Star Premier Residences of Yonkers. There is the senior community’s million-dollar views of the Hudson River, the beautiful walking trails and gardens, the close proximity of New York City and the 24-hour concierge. Residents enjoy a gated community, with maintenance-free living and weekly housekeeping.

But what really makes this senior community different from others is the extraordinary care and attention given to residents. For instance, Five Star’s Lifestyle 360 health and wellness program helps seniors’ live healthier and happier lives. New residents are given a personalized program that fits with their interests and includes activities that challenge their minds, builds their strength and allows them to engage with new friends.

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April, 2017

Through the community’s “MyChoice” dining program, residents can enjoy an exceptional culinary experience with flexibility that accommodates personal lifestyle preferences. Savor a sumptuous, sit-down dinner or grab a quick bite at the café. Five Star Yonkers’ chefs are committed to creating and serving meals that are delicious, healthy, fun and nutritionally sound.

Most importantly, Five Star Premier Residences of Yonkers offers a caring, welcoming environment for each and every one of its residents and their families. Social, educational, wellness, cultural and spiritual programs are available so that seniors can stay active and healthy. The comfort of home, the compassion of a caring team and the fulfillment of companionship is what makes Five Star-Yonkers an exceptional senior community.

Call today to find out more about Five Star Premier Residences of Yonkers or to schedule a tour. Be sure to ask about our current special for independent seniors that allows you to bring along a spouse or roommate for free! He or she will receive all the same dining privileges, and social and recreational amenities as the lessee. Call (914) 423-2200, and ask for the sales department. Visit www.fivestarpremier-yonkers.com for more information.

About Five Star Premier Residences of Yonkers Five Star Quality Care, Inc., a national healthcare and senior living provider headquartered in Newton, Massachusetts, proudly offers the highest quality service and care with the warmth and hospitality of home. The Assisted Living Federation of America (ALFA) has awarded Five Star Senior Living many of its prestigious Best of the Best Awards, a national recognition reserved for the nation's most innovative and effective senior living programs. Five Star Premier Residences of Yonkers is located at 537 Riverdale Avenue, Yonkers, NY 10705. For more information, please visit www.fivestarpremier-yonkers.com; (914) 423-2200. Or, visit www.fivestarseniorliving.com

OUR VIEWS ON N SENIOR LIVING

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Move in NOW and a the 2nd person ST TAYS FREE for the life of the Lease!* A F I V E S TA R IN D EP EN D EN T, A S S I S T E D L I V ING A N D M E M O R Y C AR E C O M M U NI T Y

ATTORNEYS AT LAW Many Years of Experience Protecting the Legal Interests of the Elderly & Special Needs Populations

Why should I spend money hiring attorneys to do asset protection planning for me and my loved ones?

Currently, the monthly cost for nursing home care in New York ranges between $10,000-$15,000, and properly certified home health attendants (nurse aides) can cost as much or more for round- the-clock home care. Statistically, it is likely that most people will need either or both of these care options as they grow older. It is critical that you plan appropriately to best minimize the strain that elder care costs may have on your estate, and to help put you in the best position possible to qualify for benefits that are largely covered by the government, under Medicare or Medicaid.

Our firm has attorneys with extensive experience in developing tax-effective action plans for our clients that help protect their assets from government imposition.

We have also been very successful in negotiating the complex bureaucratic minefield in which Medicaid is now mired. We have achieved remarkable results for our clients on a host of Medicaid related issues, from obtaining Medicaid approvals for coverage of home care and institutional care benefits, to very accommodative resolutions of Medicaid spousal recovery claims, where the office of Medicaid aggressively pursues the non-institutionalized (i.e., or “community”) spouse for Medicaid benefits provided.

Why should I have a lawyer prepare my will?

If you die without a Will, the law, not you, determines how your assets are divided and to whom they are given. A poorly drafted Will may result in a sizeable chunk of your assets not ending up where you want them to go. We are an experienced law firm that can expertly craft your will to address your long-term care, tax, estate planning, and asset protection planning issues. It is in your best interest that planning be done properly so as to minimize the tax burden on your estate.

Our experience and skill in the fields of Trusts, Wills, and Estates enables our firm to uniquely tailor estate planning to your individual needs. We will review your entire estate and draft a personalized plan that will best direct the disposition of your assets after death, whether through your Will, or by means of testamentary substitutes (trusts, joint-asset ownership with right of survivorship, or by beneficiary designation in life insurance policies, annuities, or individual retirement accounts).

My father is having difficulty caring for himself. I am afraid he will no longer be able to live on his own. I am worried about finding the money to pay for his care, whether he stays at home or moves to an assisted living facility or nursing home. What do I do?

Westchester Financial Center 50 Main Street, Suite #1000 White Plains, NY 10606 Email: Info@ejrosenlaw.com

Tel: (914) 816-2900 www.ejrosenlaw.com

Your concerns are certainly daunting, and heart-rending. Our firm offers you a caring hand, an open ear, and uncompromising professional competence, and commitment. We will help find for you solutions that best suit your needs, using the latest tax, trust, and other asset protection strategies available under the law.

The law firm of Ely J. Rosenzveig & Associates, P.C. practices in all aspects of elder law, including trust and estate planning, administration, and litigation, tax counsel, asset protection and special needs planning, Medicaid, Medicare, and Social Security disability benefits, guardianships, long term care planning, spousal recovery claims, and Medicaid lien resolutions.

Attorney advertising • Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome

ELDER LAW • TRUSTS & ESTATES • TAX ADVOCACY • MEDIATION • EMPLOYMENT LAW

Boomers & Beyond - Westchester

Anthony Macera, M.A. CCC-A, FAAA

NY State Licensed and Certified Audiologist & Hearing Aid Dispenser

Do you ever have difficulty understanding speech at restaurants or family gatherings? Do you feel that people are mumbling all the time? Are you constantly turning up the volume on your television? Are telephone conversations sometimes difficult to understand?

If you answered “yes” to any of these questions, it is possible that you may have some degree of hearing loss. When people experience hearing loss, they often struggle to hear and understand speech. This can cause a lot of stress and have a negative effect on a person’s quality of life. When a person has difficulty communicating, it can cause them to avoid social situations and become more isolated. Over the past 15 years, Westchester Audiology and Hearing Aid Specialist, P.C. has been helping people communicate

April, 2017

PAGE 15

better by providing the highest level of healthcare to their patients. Our New York State licensed and certified audiologist will customize a healthcare solution for your specific hearing and lifestyle needs.

Our digital hearing devices cover the entire spectrum of hearing impairments, and will help you hear and communicate better with those around you. Most of our devices come with the industry-leading Secure 4-Year Warranty. We are also one of the only area providers of Lyric, the first and only 100% invisible, extended wear hearing aid (worn up to two months!)

It’s time to take action, and address your hearing needs. Call us at 914-253-9160 to schedule your complimentary hearing consultation and begin your journey to better hearing!

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April, 2017

Boomers & Beyond - Westchester

What are the symptoms of hearing loss?

Hearing loss in seniors tends to occur gradually.

As a result, many seniors may be unaware that a problem is developing. Caregivers should watch for common signs of hearing loss, including:

Hearing loss in seniors

Senior with hearing problemHearing loss is one of the most common conditions affecting seniors. It can also be a frustrating and isolating experience. Communication is key, especially between seniors and caregivers. Understanding the symptoms, causes and treatments of hearing loss can help caregivers maintain effective communication and provide valuable care.

• Asking people to repeat themselves or speak louder • Turning up the volume on the radio or TV • Difficulty following conversations if there is background noise or 2 people speaking at once • Inability to hear someone speaking from another room or has their back turned • Difficulty hearing on the telephone

What causes hearing loss?

There are different types of hearing loss that affect seniors. Sensorineural hearing loss is a permanent condition caused by damage to the inner ear or auditory nerve. Conductive hearing loss occurs when something stops sound waves from reaching the inner ear, such as a build-up of ear wax. This can normally be fixed through surgery or other medical procedures. Many different factors can cause hearing loss, including genetics, medications, head injury and ear infections. It is difficult to prevent hearing loss, especially as a senior. However, avoiding loud noises and the overuse of headphones can help, as can the proper treatment of ear infections.

How is hearing loss diagnosed and treated?

If a senior is suffering from hearing loss, they should visit their family doctor as soon as possible to determine the exact cause. The sooner hearing loss is diagnosed, the better the treatment options.

A senior may need to visit a hearing specialist, such as an otolaryngologist or audiologist, for an official diagnosis and treatment plan. Common treatments include medication, surgery and hearing aids. Complete hearing loss is rare; often, treatments allow a senior to maintain a moderate ability to hear.

How should you care for a senior with hearing loss?

If a senior is suffering from hearing loss, caregivers should make sure to communicate with them in a way that is effective and considerate.

Avoid speaking to a senior from another room or with your back turned. Instead, make eye contact with a senior while speaking slowly and clearly.

This allows a senior to read your lips and facial expressions, which can help fill in the blanks. Additionally, do not attempt to speak over loud music or a television show. If multiple people are present, encourage everyone to take turns speaking rather than interrupting one another. Check regularly to make sure hearing aids are in working order and do not require fresh batteries.

Source:www.retireathome.com

Boomers & Beyond - Westchester

April, 2017

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April, 2017

Boomers & Beyond - Westchester

therapists, rehabilitation, sports medicine and other professionals.

For more information or to register, contact Colleen Connaughton, PT, DPT: 845-786-4617 or connaughtonc@helenhayeshosp.org.

Helen Hayes Hospital is one of the nation’s leading specialty rehabilitation hospitals, providing a range of inpatient, outpatient and specialty care to individuals

recovering from brain and spinal cord injury, amputation and stroke, as well as cardiopulmonary, orthopedic and neurological disorders. Founded in 1900, it is operated by the New York State Department of Health and is a member of The NewYorkPresbyterian Healthcare System.

For more information, please visit www.helenhayeshospital.org.

Shoulder Disorder Course for Professionals—May 13 at Helen Hayes Hospital

Dr. Donald W. Earley, OTD, MA, OTR/L will present the course “Diagnosis, Management and Evidence-Based Treatment for Shoulder Disorders” at Helen Hayes Hospital on Saturday, May 13, 2017 from 8am to 3:30pm.

The course, designed for physical and occupational therapists, therapist assistants, hand therapists, athletic trainers, kinesiotherapists, rehabilitation, sports medicine and other professionals, will focus on the evaluation and treatment of patients with shoulder dysfunction, one of the most pervasive orthopedic conditions attended to by today’s clinicians.

The hands-on workshop will take attendees step-by-step through the pathoanatomy of the shoulder and the assessment of dysfunction utilizing case studies of recurring, complex shoulder problems. Current evidence-based interventions will be presented and analyzed for a variety of diagnoses, providing attendees with tools to evaluate and treat difficult shoulder problems more efficiently and cost-effectively.

Dr. Earley has over 20 years of experience as a licensed and certi-

fied occupational therapist working in both medical and community-based practice. He performs hand and upper extremity orthopedic and neurological rehabilitation, operates a clinic treating adult stroke patients, and has designed and implemented programs for Easterseals since 2002. Dr. Early is an associate professor at Saginaw Valley State University, where he is chair and program director of the occupational therapy department. He has presented nationally on shoulder and hand conditions, as well as other topics, and has published extensively in professional publications including the American Journal of Occupational Therapy and Occupational Therapy International.

Registration and course fee of $149 is due by April 26, 2017. The course meets the criteria for 0.6 AOTA CEUs (6.0 contact hours) for occupational therapists; 7.2 contact hours for physical therapists as approved by the NYS Education Department Office of the Professions Board for Physical Therapy; and a maximum of 6 credit/contact hours for athletic trainers, kinesiotherapists, hand

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

www.staronehomecare.com info@staronehomecare.com

Boomers & Beyond - Westchester

April, 2017

PAGE 19

The Viisiting Nurse Association of Hudson Va alley fam mily of organizations - provid ding home health services since e 1898.

VNAHV delivers the best quality professional in-home nursing and rehabilitative services to residents of Westchester and P t Putnam C Countie ties.

Ourr carefully screened and d New Yo orkk State-licensed aides off offer a wide range of services to o help you u maintain your independence. ndence.

(914) 666 - 7616

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Our family-center centered approach allows you to focus on wh hat matters most - quality of life and time spentt with ith your loved l d ones.

VNAHV V.or .org

Corporate Address: 540 White Plains Road, Ste. 300 Tarrytown, NY 10591 Ta

Putnam Addr A ess: 20 Milltow wn Road, Ste. 101 B ewster, NY 10509 Br