Seniors - Healthy Lifestyle

A Special Supplement to The Daily Home

2 – The Daily Home, Wednesday, October 16, 2013

PRIMETIME

Retirement never boring for Daugherty Home staff writer

Larry Daugherty doesn’t get bored.

There’s just not time.

And even though Daugherty “retired” in 1995 at age 47, and it’s been 18 years now, he still keeps a schedule most “working” people could only hope to keep up with.

It might be easier to take it in the way he starts his days now.

The Pell City resident is up at 5 a.m., just like he was while working full time, but instead of heading to the office at the Anniston Army Depot, Daugherty takes off for his local gym to get in his daily workout.

Once that’s done, he’s off to any number of civic events happening around town, his volunteer duties, his part-time job or the things he and his wife of 38 years, Betty, enjoy doing together.

To try and sum it all

up, Daugherty puts it this way: “The real thing to have is an interest. Something that keeps you going and something that you look forward to.”

Taking it all a step further, Daugherty explains that for him, the retirement pursuits are things he has a passion for.

Daugherty started out on his retirement knowing his calling was one to help other people.

“I’ve always loved meeting people, so that part was easy for me,” he said.

Once retired, Daugherty found himself offering to work with a number of local groups, along with a desire to remain a lifelong learner.

There were Master Gardener courses to take through the Auburn University Extension Service and he pursued continuing education at the Anniston Army Depot in logistics, total quality management and electronics. He also took part in continuing education in

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Laura Nation-Atchison/The Daily Home

Clay County native Larry Daugherty, now a resident of Pell City, retired early at 47 and has stayed busy since with all kinds of activities. He is pictured with the dog he and his wife, Betty, adopted from the Animal Shelter of Pell City.

marketing and caregiving for Always There In Home Care in Pell City, where he now works part time in marketing and is the organization’s community

outreach director, though he started out as a volunteer home caregiver.

Daugherty has also See Daugherty, Page 3

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The Daily Home, Wednesday, October 16, 2013 — 3

PRIMETIME

Daugherty From Page 2

taken continuing education courses in financial and regulator compliance for the AOD Federal Credit Union, where he serves on the Board of Directors.

In the earlier days of his retirement, Daugherty found himself as the St. Clair County chairman for People Against a Littered State (PALS) and served on the Pell City Kiwanis Club’s Board of Directors.

He is also a former member of the Animal Shelter of Pell City’s Board

of Directors and served in a number of capacities for his church, St. Simon Peter Episcopal Church in Pell City.

Every other Thursday, Daugherty meets at Eden Westside School in Pell City with military veterans who are coping with post traumatic stress syndrome.

“There is a lot of this, some who come are our Vietnam veterans and there are those who have been in Afghanistan and other places of war, too,” he said.

But before retiring,

Daugherty said he and his wife gave their retirement process a lot of thought.

“Before retiring it took a lot of calculation, if we could pay the bills and continue to enjoy our standard of living,” he said.

At the time, the Daughertys were Betty Daugherty’s father’s caregiver and he lived with them.

“I really did not plan out my career, but when I was drafted into the U.S. Army in 1966, during the evaluation done at Basic Training at Ft. Benning, the recruiter recommended that because of my high math and science scores, that I study electronics,” Daugherty said.

And that’s exactly where he ended up.

“I had a very intense electronic course for the radars and computers of the Nike Hercules Missile at Ft. Bliss, Texas (El Paso),” he said. “I was stationed in California, Minnesota and West Germany, which kindled my love of traveling, history and genealogy.”

The experience also prepared him for his work, which continued for 27 years at the Anniston Army Depot following his service in the Army.

Betty Daugherty is now retired from a teaching career, so she and her husband can enjoy the travel element of retirement.

This year, they worked in trips to Puerto Rico, Copenhagen, Estonia, Stockholm, St. Petersburg

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Daugherty often attends various important events in and around Pell City, hoping to show support for its civic groups, new businesses and other important functions.

“I do think it is important to be a part of your community supporting civic clubs and functions to better your community,” he said.

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Daugherty has a green thumb, and using it has been part of his enjoyment of retirement.

He has completed courses with the Alabama Extension Service in Master Gardening.

They’re planning more trips together in between their other interests, and both enjoy their home in Pell City with their animal shelter adoptee, Rosie.

“We’re hoping to go to the United Kingdom, Ireland and Scotland are up there on the bucket list, and then, of course, we want to go back to Italy and Greece some day.”

Daugherty said he finally learned not to overload himself when it comes to volunteering, though.

One person can only spread themselves so far.

“Volunteer work is

important and is fulfilling, just don’t overload,” he says. “When I first retired, I took on too many boards of directors and clubs and, finally, I realized I could not do everything.”

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and Helsinki and visited parts of Germany Daugherty didn’t have a chance to pursue while in the Army.

4 – The Daily Home, Wednesday, October 16, 2013

PRIMETIME

Bankers: Take advantage of accounts that focus on seniors

By BILL KIMBER Home staff writer

For financial peace of mind, area bankers suggest keeping your money close to home, knowing your banker and taking advantage of accounts designed for seniors.

In Pell City, Metro Bank has a senior checking account for people age 55 and older, which offers free checking with free Internet banking and bill pay. “We don’t see as many seniors using online banking and bill paying

as young people, but as time goes on you see more and more seniors using it,” said Metro President Don Perry. “Seniors use it quite a bit, and it gains every year.

“With the baby boomers, there are a lot of them for one thing, and they are becoming more savvy,” Perry said.

He said a community bank is a great place for retirees to keep their money.

“Most community banks are receptive to lending to seniors. If they

need temporary funding, we certainly do that. We don’t feel like people are too old if they have a good income and need to borrow money to fix up their house or whatever.”

He explained that community banks make their own lending decisions.

“We’re able to make a quick decision, and they need that. When seniors come to a bank needing something, you know they need it because most seniors don’t want to be borrowing money.”

Perry recommends

Bob Crisp/The Daily Home

Deposit Operations Manager Kim Jones talks to Chris Kramer at SouthFirst Bank in Sylacauga.

comparing interest rates on money market accounts and certificates of deposit.

“We try to keep our inter-

est rates very competitive.

As a general rule, we keep our rates a little bit higher than the competition.”

Some television and radio ads suggest reverse See Banking, Page 5

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The Daily Home, Wednesday, October 16, 2013 — 5

PRIMETIME

Banking From Page 4

mortgages as a borrowing tool for older Americans, but Perry recommends being very cautious.

“We have a mortgage department that handles reverse mortgages, but we have very little activity in it and we don’t push it. For some people it’s probably a good thing, but it would be a very small segment of the population that would benefit,” he said.

He added that many seniors took a pay cut when interest rates on CDs and individual retirement accounts dropped a

few years ago. “It has been tough on seniors. They’re looking for some other ways to make money, but many are scared of the stock market because it is so volatile. It’s hard for seniors who want to be conservative to really find a way to make any money.”

At SouthFirst Bank in Sylacauga, Deposit Operations Manager Kim Jones recommends customers talk to an investment banker or accountant to determine their investing strategy, then use a bank where they know and trust the bankers.

“We’re very cautious.

We will do what our customers ask us to do, but we don’t give advice,” she said.

“If people want to know where to invest or place their money, we always tell them to see a CPA or tax consultant because they will know more about the individual situation.”

Jones said SouthFirst has a variety of checking accounts for seniors to choose from. One offers no service fees, free checks and free debit card, but it does not bear interest.

A couple of others do bear interest, and one has rates that compare with those of CDs.

“If someone doesn’t want to tie their money up in a CD, they could put it in our interest bearing checking account. The rates can compete with CDs without locking it in,” she said.

She added that SouthFirst has a number of customers at or near retirement age, and that 55 is a great age to start taking advantage of the banking programs designed for older adults.

At First National Bank of Talladega, several accounts are tailored to the more mature bank customer, but there is no

minimum age limit to participate, said Chip Moore, head of operations.

“We’ve gotten away from that. We wanted to have a few good products that could fit anybody depending on where they are in life, not just defined by age.”

First National has some accounts that offer extra perks.

“Most of the time, older adults have done a good job of living on less than they make, so they’ve saved up some,” he said.

The bank’s classic interest account offers unlimited check writing, interest

on balances over $2,500, 25 percent off safe deposit box, free notary service, official checks and a limited number of photocopies.

“A lot of seniors still prefer to use checks, so we don’t charge for writing checks as some banks do,” he said.

The premium interest account offers a higher rate, but interest starts at a $10,000 balance.

All the perks available with the classic interest account are provided, plus a few extras.

See Banking, Page 6

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6 – The Daily Home, Wednesday, October 16, 2013

Banking

PRIMETIME

Special people needed for special field

From Page 5

My Concierge is a 24 hour, seven day a week assistance line that can help with booking travel, hotels and entertainment tickets.

And, a third-party club program offers identity theft insurance, payment card protection and credit card monitoring.

First National offers a no-frills basic checking account that offers a low balance to avoid fees, plus unlimited check writing.

“We really wanted to focus on things that will help our customers,” Moore said.

“We are the oldest continuously operating bank in Alabama – 165 years.

“Anybody who has grown up and lived in Talladega has heard our name and knows who we are. We pride ourselves on being very active in the community.”

He said the bank makes speakers available to senior groups to discuss banking topics, and as new products come along they’re available to answer questions.

“We have plenty of staff available to answer questions whenever anybody comes in, too,” Moore said.

“Our management is here, too, so you’re not calling Birmingham or Dallas or New York City. The people who manage our bank live here in Talladega, and we think that’s important because we’re part of this community.”

By WILL HEATH Home staff writer

It is specialized work, and it requires special people to make it happen.

Those who work in home health care, and in hospice care, say that their chosen line of work is actually more than just a line of work.

“It’s a calling, not a profession,” said Richard Nieves, who handles communications for Alacare in Pell City.

“You have to be a special person to like it,” said Debbie Dawson, director of Citizens Home Care in Talladega. “Those of us that stick with it wouldn’t do anything else.”

Services offered at home health companies such as Alacare or Citizens Home Care in Talladega include physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy and medical social services. Companies also offer hospice services for patients at the end of their lives.

The job is about relationships, according to Dawson.

“When patients come to the hospital, they really don’t want to be here,” she said. “Being in the home, the patients get a little bit closer to us. We seem more like family; we get to take care of the whole patient, not just when they’re in the hospital. We have to consider family support, finan-

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Staying out of the hospital is important to the patient’s overall health, as well.

“It’s very important to keep them from coming back to the hospital,” Dawson said. “When the patient leaves the hospital and they tell them about their medications, by the time they get home they’ve pretty much already for-

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“We have some patients that had no insurance at all. Being a not-for-profit agency, we do work with people.”

According to Nieves, the health care industry wants to see home health succeed, to help keep patients out of the hospital.

“If you qualify, both home health and hospice are fully paid for by Medicare,” he said. “The industry looks at it as a big help for the burden Medicare has, to take care of the elderly. Keeping a patient at home is so much less expensive on the Medicare system, versus being in the hospital.

“Right now, between health care expenses and hospitals being asked to reduce expenses, one important thing is to get patients out of the hospital and into the home setting as quickly as possible.

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cial things, anything that could impact that patient’s care.”

Nieves noted that home health professionals get to treat patients as they are.

“When an elderly person goes to the doctor, they brush their hair and put on their makeup, they really want to look good for the doctor,” he said. “Our nurses are in the home; they’re able to look at the medication they’re taking, the food they’re eating, the supplements they’re taking.

They really treat the whole patient.”

That care can also help hold down the cost of care.

Dawson said her company’s largest population base comes from Medicare.

“Medicare, which is our largest population, still pays 100 percent for home care if the service is skilled,” she said. “The private insurances, some require copays, and unfortunately patients turn down services because they can’t afford the co-pays.

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The Daily Home, Wednesday, October 16, 2013 — 7

PRIMETIME

Helping a loved one A Partnership adapt to nursing home You Can Count On activities, can help aging relatives look at nursing homes in a new light. In addition, family members who familiarize themselves with nursing homes will begin to see they are often great places for aging men and women to socialize with others their age while receiving the care and attention they need.

When discussing the move to a nursing home, focus on these positives and your relative will be more likely to follow your lead.

• Choose a nursing home that’s close to home.

One of the more difficult parts of transitioning to a nursing home is the notion that men and women are leaving their lives behind once they move into a home. Choosing a nursing home that’s close to home and makes routine visits from friends and relatives possible enables men and women maintain a connection to their current lifestyle. A home that is miles and miles away from

a person’s support system can foster feelings of isolation and loneliness.

• Plan trips with your loved one. Just because an aging relative lives in a nursing home does not mean he or she can no longer travel. If a relative is healthy enough to travel, include them on family trips and outings.

This includes more routine events like weekly Sunday dinners, kids’ sporting events and other extracurricular activities.

The more involved your aging relative are in the daily life of your family, the more likely they are to see the advantages of living in a nursing home.

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• Encourage your loved ones to take some personal items with them. When moving into a nursing home, men and women must leave behind many of their possessions. This is a simple space issue, as the rooms in a typical nursing See Adapting, Page 8

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Many older men and women find the transition to a nursing home somewhat difficult. Men and women tend to see a move to a nursing home as a step toward surrendering their independence, and this can be a difficult hurdle for seniors and their loved ones to overcome.

Adding to the difficulty is the fact that many men and women move into nursing homes because their physical or mental status requires the help of a professional nursing staff, leaving family members with little to no recourse when aging relatives protest the move. But there are ways to ease a loved one’s transition into a nursing home.

• Keep a positive attitude. The stress of moving an aging relative into a nursing home can be significant for all parties involved. But focusing on the positives of nursing homes, such as aroundthe-clock care and daily

8 — The Daily Home, Wednesday, October 16, 2013

PRIMETIME

Seniors can get excellent health care at area hospitals

By DAVID ATCHISON

Home staff writer

Area medical centers and hospitals not only have an array of services for the community but many services focus on or are used widely used by seniors who have health issues.

Kidada Hawkins, vice president and chief operating officer of rural hospitals for St. Vincent’s Heath System, which includes St. Vincent’s St. Clair Hospital in Pell City, said although the hospital provides some medical services to the new Col. Robert L. Howard

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Veterans Home across the street, the hospital does not have medical programs that focus only on the senior population.

“But we have services that are used by seniors,” Hawkins said.

He said SVSC continues to bring more doctors and specialists to Pell City, so seniors and their caretakers do not have to travel long distances for medical services.

“We have a number of visiting specialists, many from Birmingham,” he See Hospitals, Page 10

Brian Schoenhals/The Daily Home

Kevin Harris, nurse manager for the Senior Care Unit at CBMC, talks with his senior care unit staff, Wanda Sims, clinical social worker; Susan Ezekiel, RN; Regina Adrian, activities coordinator; and Rachel Hunkapiller, RN.

From Page 7

home cannot accommodate a life’s worth of keepsakes and possessions.

But that doesn’t mean men and women have to leave everything behind.

Encourage your loved one to bring along some possessions, such as his or her family photos, a favorite chair or smaller mementos from places he or she visited throughout his or her life. Such items can make a nursing home seem less antiseptic and more like a home.

• Set up an e-mail account for your loved one. If your loved one still has his or her mental

health, then set him or her up with an e-mail account.

This allows your loved one to maintain daily contact with family and friends.

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Many of today’s nursing homes provide facilities where residents can access the Internet.

If not, speak to the staff and ask if your relative can bring his or her own computer. If your relative will be able to routinely access the Internet, consider purchasing a digital subscription to the local newspaper so he or she can further maintain a connection to the community.

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The Daily Home, Wednesday, October 16, 2013 — 9

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10 — The Daily Home, Wednesday, October 16, 2013

PRIMETIME

Hospitals From Page 8

said.

Many of the medical services SVSC is bringing to Pell City are taking off because of the need in the community.

“We’re trying to keep everything close and accessible to all our patients,” Hawkins said.

He said the hospital’s new comprehensive vein center is “really taking off.”

Hawkins said not only does SVSC offer the traditional physical therapy, but also occupational and speech therapy that is used by many seniors or poststroke patients.

Hospital officials said the local hospital has seen a dramatic increase in patient volumes since opening the $32 million hospital, which is on Veterans Parkway just north of Interstate 20.

The 40-bed St. Vincent’s St. Clair Hospital has all private rooms with

six intensive care beds and 34 medical/surgical beds, which includes two extended-stay suites for patients and their families.

Officials say the twostory 79,000-square-foot facility is equipped with the most modern, state-ofthe-art medical equipment for quick diagnoses and treatment.

The hospital also has a strong core of auxiliary volunteers from the community, who help raise money for SVSC and assist when needed at the hospital.

Vanessa Green, chief business development officer for Coosa Valley Medical Center in Sylacauga, said their hospital is also staffed by a number of retirees who volunteer to work regular shifts each week.

“We have had a strong auxiliary for more than 30 years,” Green said. “This is an excellent avenue for our seniors to give back to the community and also to network among

themselves. This helps the hospital, it helps the community and it helps the volunteers. It’s a situation where everybody wins.”

She said Coosa Valley Medical Center has a strong continuum of care that serves all ages, but also has a wide array of services specific to the senior population.

“We are passionate about serving our senior population,” Green said.

“At Coosa Valley, you’re not a number. It’s a personalized encounter here.

It’s neighbors taking care of neighbors with exceptional care. You just can’t get any better than that.”

She said people 50 od and older can participate in the hospital’s SeniorLinks program.

For a $25 annual fee, participants get discounts in CVMC’s Hickory Street Café and the auxiliary’s gift shop, free notary service, free counseling on health care proxy and living wills, free document

shredding, free copying or important documents, free blood pressure screenings, a discount on the hospital’s cardiac rehab maintenance programs, and can attend quarterly seminars on health care topics.

Kevin Harris, who became nurse manager for the senior care unit at Citizens Baptist Medical Center in Talladega in February, said their unit has renewed its focus on quality care for seniors who suffer from dementia or Alzheimer’s disease and their families.

This is a vital service that focuses on seniors and one of the most prevalent health issues experienced by older adults.

“We specialize in good, quality care,” he said. “We are committed to good, quality care.”

He said senior care unit patients generally are 65 or older, but the unit will admit patients who are 50plus.

Harris said they try to

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Harris said they have a social worker on staff who can help families with the placement of a family member suffering from dementia or Alzheimer’s.

He said many people are not aware this service is available at Citizens Baptist Medical Center in Talladega.

Some people are amazed that we are here and offer this service,” Harris said.

For more information about the senior care unit, call 256-761-4380.

Contact David Atchison at datchison@dailyhome. com.

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Harris said they want patients to have a good, quality life once they have been discharged.

He said Citizens Baptist Medical Center assists families with finding appropriate care once a patient is discharged from the senior care unit.

Harris said when a patient is brought to the senior care unit, they are evaluated. Appropriate medicines are determined and health professionals work on individual needs, whether it’s helping write checks or exercises to help

improve memory.

He said the average stay for a patient diagnosed with dementia or Alzheimer’s is 7-12 days.

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include family in the care of their patients.

“We want to keep the family educated,” he said, adding that the family plays a big part in the care of a patient with dementia or Alzheimer.

The Daily Home, Wednesday, October 16, 2013 — 11

PRIMETIME

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12 — The Daily Home, Wednesday, October 16, 2013

PRIMETIME

Precautions to take when solicited for donations Charities often target certain groups of people when soliciting donations.

Those groups may include past donors and people who have recently attended charitable fundraisers. Such an approach can be very effective. It should come as no surprise that criminals posing as legitimate organizations tend to target specific groups of people as well.

Anyone can be fooled by a fraudulent charity, but such criminals tend to target seniors more than others.

According to the Federal Bureau of Investigation, seniors often make attractive targets to con artists because seniors are most likely to have substantial savings, own their homes and/or have excellent credit. In addition, the FBI

notes that elderly victims of fraud and other crimes are less likely to report those crimes out of fear that their families may feel they are no longer able to take care of themselves or manage their own finances.

These factors make seniors especially attractive and vulnerable to con artists, particularly those who prey on well-intentioned men and women by posing as fake charities. But there are steps seniors can take to protect themselves from fraud.

• Be skeptical of solicitors. Many con artists will indicate that persons have given to the charity in the past, hoping prospective victims won’t remember if that claim is valid. If a solicitor or appeal letter claims you donated in the

past, don’t simply take it at face value, especially if you don’t recall making a donation. Get specific information about alleged past donations, checking information against your own bank records and receipts.

Many donors claim donations as deductions on their tax returns, which also can be used to verify or debunk solicitors’ claims. Though not all solicitors claiming a past history of donations are dishonest, this is one way criminals attempt to create a rapport with potential victims, so such claims should be verified before making any donations.

• Don’t feel obligated to reciprocate a gift with a donation. Many charities send gifts, be it mailing labels or holiday cards, to prospective donors as a

token of appreciation for past donations and as a way of encouraging future donations. Con artists are fully aware of this tactic and may try to imitate it in an attempt to defraud potential victims. No matter if the people behind those mailing labels or holiday ornaments are legitimate charities or con artists, you should not feel compelled to reciprocate a free gift with a financial donation.

• Beware of solicitors pressuring you to donate.

Reputable charities should not be on the verge of shut down if you fail to make a donation, so such organizations never pressure prospective donors into making donations. If a solicitor is pressuring you into making a donation over the phone or in per-

son, chances are strong that this person is not representing a reputable charity.

In such instances, hang up the phone or, if the solicitor is on your property, politely close the door, ask the solicitor to leave your property and contact the local authorities.

• Send donations directly to the charity after independently confirming their address. When making charitable donations, those donations should never be given directly to solicitors.

Donations should only be made after you have confirmed the charity’s address and mailed straight to the organization. Never make a cash donation, as cash provides no paper trail should you want to deduct your donation or you learn you were victimized by a con

artist posing as a representative of a charity.

• Request personal information not be shared.

Upon receiving a charitable donation, many charities share their donors’ contact information with other charities. Such actions are legal as long as no sensitive information is shared.

But many donors would prefer their contact information not be shared so they don’t find themselves being inundated with solicitations from other charities. Donors can ask to opt out of having their personal information shared upon making a donation.

This is especially important for seniors living on fixed incomes who simply cannot afford to support many causes no matter how compelling those causes are.

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The Daily Home, Wednesday, October 16, 2013 — 13

PRIMETIME

Avoid overspending as retirement nears When the nest is empty and the kids no longer need financial support, many men and women find themselves with some extra money in their budget. Fewer mouths to feed and no more college tuition bills can give parents a sense of financial freedom they may not have had since before starting their family. But that freedom can also lead to overspending, something that can put retirement in jeopardy if people are not careful.

Though it’s understandable for men and women to splurge on a well-deserved getaway once the kids have finally left the house, it’s important for adults to ensure that such splurging does not become routine. The following are a few ways men and women with some newfound disposable income can avoid overspending and putting themselves in financial hot water as they get closer to retirement.

• Pay with cash whenever possible. Swiping a debit card or credit card is certainly a convenient way to shop, but it can also be dangerous. Many people find it difficult to keep track of their spending when they use debit cards or credit cards to make their purchases. Using cash to make purchases, especially daily purchases like a morning cup of coffee, reduces the likelihood of overspending. This can help you get a better idea of how much money you’re spending and if there are any steps you can take to curtail that spending.

An effective way to use cash is to withdraw money from the bank once per week and use that as your weekly supply of money. If

you find yourself frequently running out of money each week, then you’re likely spending more than you should.

• Keep a financial journal. Men and women who must adapt to having newfound disposable income may find it is not much different from younger men and women learning to manage their money when they first start working. Some of those lessons, like saving more than you spend, might need to be relearned.

One way to get a grip on your spending is to keep a financial journal to track your daily and monthly expenses as well as larger purchases like a new television. Write down the monthly expenses you know you have each month, such as a mortgage payment or a car note, and each and every purchase you make, including how much you spend on dining out each month. Do this for at least a couple of months. When you have logged several months’ activity, examine your journal to see if there are any expenses that can be trimmed to save money.

• Don’t go overboard rewarding yourself. Once your last child has left the nest, the temptation to reward yourself with a luxury item or two might prove overwhelming. After all, raising a family and paying for college tuition has no doubt required substantial sacrifice on your part, so it’s well within reason that you want to reward yourself after all these years. Avoid overdoing it so your finances aren’t stretched too thinly. A vacation with your spouse is reasonable, but buying

a villa overseas might be a little over the top. Luxuries can be nice, but they can also drain a budget. Your monthly expenses once the kids have moved out should be lower, so if you find your cost of living has

increased now that your nest is empty, you might be forced to determine which of your expenses are luxuries and which are necessities.

• Take advantage of

your “experience.” Though accepting a “senior” discount might be a blow to your pride, it also can be a boon to your bottom line. Many establishments, including gyms, restaurants and movie theaters,

offer discounts to men and women age 55 and older.

This can help you save a substantial amount of money over time, and no one has to know you’ve started cashing in on your experience.

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14 — The Daily Home, Wednesday, October 16, 2013

PRIMETIME

Physical therapy a vital part of treatment and recovery

By CHRIS NORWOOD Home staff writer

Brian Schoenhals/The Daily Home

Aquatic physical therapy can be particularly useful for older patients, since it allows for exercise with less strain on the joints. Above, Sharla Eason of Therapy South in Talladega monitors a client doing aquatic exercises.

Although the golden years provide seniors with numerous opportunities that they may not have had when they were younger, they must also be cautious. As the body ages, it becomes more prone to certain types of injury, and those injuries can take longer to heal.

Fortunately, there are things that can be done.

Physical therapist Sharla Eason is the clinic director for Therapy South in Talladega, just down the road from Citizens Baptist Medical Center.

“We see a lot of people with injuries due to falls,” Eason said. “Some of those will require surgery, others will still need rehabilitation even without surgery.

We also see people with degenerative conditions like arthritis.”

A good many of Therapy South’s older clients have also recently undergone joint replacements, especially hips and knees.

While nothing can fully arrest the aging process, Eason said Therapy South has an aquatics program that can help quite a bit.

“It helps strengthen the muscles around the joints, but there is less pain, so people are able to do more. It also helps with balance,” she said. The city of Talladega has offered a similar program at the Spring Street Recreation Center.

“The aquatics program works well, but it’s also really enjoyable,” Eason added. “In addition to

rehabilitation, we also have an aquatic fitness program they can do, or they can exercise in the pool on their own.”

There are also dry-land exercises that can help improve balance and make injuries less likely.

“We can work with people on changing positions, looking up and looking down while doing certain things,” she said.

“We also work on maintaining balance while putting all the weight on one leg and then on the other.

And we will be right there, close at hand, to catch anybody if we need to.”

The key is to “keep moving,” she said. “Try to go longer, and do as much as you can tolerate safely, and you’ll be less likely to fall.”

As for helping those who may have fallen and are recovering, patience is important. “Progress may be slower due to other conditions, and healing slows as you age generally. For instance, in patients with osteoporosis, the bones are fragile, so you can’t push as quickly as you can with younger people.

You just have to take it slower,” Eason said.

Therapy South is located at 727 Stone Ave. in Talladega, and can be reached at 256-315-9693.

They also operate more than a dozen other locations in Alabama, including one in Pell City, which can be reached at 205338-6106.

Contact Chris Norwood at cnorwood@dailyhome. com.

Brian Schoenhals/The Daily Home

Lisa Ingram, LPTA, and Sharla Eason, DPT, of Therapy South in Talladega can help older patients recover from injury and exercise to prevent injury in the first place.

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The Daily Home, Wednesday, October 16, 2013 — 15

PRIMETIME

Volunteering opportunities for retirees Today’s retirees recognize that an active retirement tends to be more rewarding than simply sitting around the house, and that attitude is reflected in the vast number of retirees who volunteer with various nonprofit organizations and other programs across the globe. The following are a handful of volunteering opportunities for those retirees who want to give back and make the most of their retirements.

Habitat for Humanity Habitat for Humanity is a nonprofit organization that builds and repairs homes for people in need. It has a program titled “Care-A-Vanners” in which volunteers typically spend two weeks traveling around the United States and Canada in rented RVs (retirees who own RVs may be able to drive their own vehicles) building and restoring homes.

Volunteers must pay their own way and bring along their own supplies, such as work shoes, gloves, tool belts, and some tools (power tools are typically provided by the local Habitat for Humanity chapter), and free or low-cost RV parking is provided by Habitat for Humanity. Adventurous retirees who enjoy hitting the open road may find “Care-A-Vanners” matches their love of travel with their desire to give back.

Service vacations Retirement is often seen as a time to travel and see the world, and many retirees have started to combine that love of travel with service opportunities. Globe Aware, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, develops shortterm volunteer programs in international environments. Each activity aims to promote cultural awareness and promote sustainability in needy communities. Volunteers work to address issues identified by the host communities as particularly pressing, interacting with the local residents in ways that are often impossible on more traditional vacations.

Meals on Wheels Retirees tend to have their mornings and afternoons free, making them ideal candidates to volunteer with programs such as Meals on Wheels, a nonprofit organization devoted to delivering nutritious meals to those with limited

mobility who are unable to prepare their own meals.

The program delivers

more than one million meals per day across the United States, and Canada

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Work with children Many retirees, especially those without grandchildren or who live far away from their grandchildren, find volunteering with children to be especially rewarding. The opportunities to work with kids are numerous, and retirees

can choose a volunteering opportunity where their own life experiences come in handy. For example, retirees who worked in the medical field might want to volunteer their time at a local children’s hospital, where they can assist families as they cope with a child’s illness and spend time with the children themselves, whether it’s tutoring sick children, reading them stories or helping them understand their illnesses.

Retirees with considerable experience in the business world may want to work with a mentoring program that matches them up with careerminded youngsters.

16 — The Daily Home, Wednesday, October 16, 2013

PRIMETIME

Dr. Storey enjoys practicing in hometown

BY SHANE DUNAWAY

Home staff writer

For those in Talladega feeling a bit under the weather, Dr. G. Robert Storey of the Talladega Family Health Center strives to make it all better.

“Back when I delivered babies, I said we took care of people from the womb to the tomb,” Storey said.

“Now I guess we take care of people from birth to the tomb.”

The center, located in an annex building to the west of Citizens Baptist Medical Center, offers a multitude of services for its patients.

“We provide a wide variety of care, including problems with hearts and lungs, stomach problems — we pretty much do just about anything,” Storey said. “They say in family medicine, you can take care of 80 percent of everything that walks through the doors. What takes years of experience in education is knowing what’s the 80 percent and what’s the 20 percent.

Brian Schoenhals/The Daily Home

Receptionist Fran Storey, Dr. G. Robert Storey and nurse assistant Ashton Grizzard serve the community by treating their patients at Talladega Family Health Center. The staff provides patients with treatment for a wide variety of ailments while implementing modernized approaches to their medical records system, allowing patients to access important information 24-hours a day, seven days a week through a cloud storage system.

We also provide preventative care, maintenance of chronic medical problems and acute illnesses.”

Talladega Family Health Center employs a modernized approach to providing its patients accessibility to

important information.

“We have electronic medical records,” Storey said. “Our records are

Retirees From Page 15

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Disaster relief Disaster relief programs may be less predictable than more routine volunteer programs, but retirees often make great volunteers at disaster relief sites. Unlike working professionals who cannot travel to disaster relief sites without ample

planning ahead of time, retirees often find the flexibility of retirement allows them to pitch in when an unforeseen natural disaster strikes and volunteers are needed seemingly overnight. Many disaster relief programs need volunteers who are certified in CPR or have other unique lifesaving skills, but even retirees without such skills can help by handling supplies or by comforting and assisting survivors of natural disasters.

stored in a cloud, so the patient (can receive) a password here and they can look up their records

and their labs at any time.

I think we’re the only practice in town where (patients) can get online, check what the doctor said about (them), see (the doctor’s diagnosis) and look up their numbers from their labs. The service is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.”

Storey noted the bulk of the cases he treats are for bronchitis, cold and sinus issues. With flu season in full swing, he said he expects to see an increase in patients.

“We’re busiest during the flu season and slowest during the summer months,” he said. “That’s true of family practice (medical centers) across the nation.”

Flu shots are also available at the center.

“Normally, we give flu shots starting in October,” Storey said. “When I was in training, we always gave it between Halloween and Thanksgiving, but because of earlier flu seasons, we’ve moved (the time we give the shots).”

Storey took the time

The Daily Home, Wednesday, October 16, 2013 — 17

PRIMETIME

Storey From Page 16

to offer up advice for the elderly population in the county — a group he said often seem reluctant to drop into the office for a visit.

“We would recommend daily activity to get up and about, well-balanced nutrition, regular exercise and for them to not take the ostrich approach (by trying to ignore a problem) to see if it goes away (instead of ) coming to the doctor.

If they have a problem, they should come to see a doctor.”

Though some elderly patients may have disabilities or other ailments limiting their mobility, Storey stressed the importance of remaining active.

“You always want to

increase your activity to do what you’re able to do,” he said. “It’s better to be up and about than be lying in bed. And, like I said before, denial is more than a river in Egypt. If you have a medical problem, seek the advice of your doctor.”

While Storey said there weren’t any drastic differences in the way the staff handles an elderly patient case versus a younger patient case, circumstantial considerations do exist.

“It you’re 16, you may take one medicine when you have a cold,” he said.

“When you’re 76, you may take 12 medicines (for various ailments). I can ask the 16 year old if he’s still taking medicine for allergies, but when you’re on that many medications

and you have to review them all, that’s why doctors have them bring the medicine in so they can go over the medical problems and history. We have to be more thorough, and when the problem list is longer, it takes more time to go through.”

Storey, a 1975 Talladega High School graduate, said he enjoys practicing medicine in his own hometown.

“It’s a privilege for me to take care of the people I grew up with,” he said.

For more information about the center, call 256362-4114.

Contact Shane Dunaway at sdunaway@dailyhome. com.

Aging not always the culprit behind cataracts Many men and women develop cataracts as they approach their golden years. While aging is the single biggest risk factor for cataracts, there are other factors that can contribute to cataracts, which can afflict people of all ages. According to the American Optometric Association, the following factors can contribute to the development of cataracts.

• Alcohol consumption: Studies have shown that higher alcohol consumption can increase a person’s risk of developing cataracts.

• Diabetes mellitus: Persons with diabetes are

at a higher risk of develop- such a link between the ing cataracts than those formation of cataracts and who do not have diabetes. low levels of antioxidants • Medications: Certain like vitamins C and E. medications have been • Smoking: Smoking associated with the devel- can increase a person’s opment of cataracts. risk for a host of ailments, Corticosteroids and chlor- including cataracts. promazine and other phe• Ultraviolet radiation nothiazine related medica- exposure: Persons who tions have been linked to aren’t adequately protected cataracts in the past. when exposed to ultravio• Nutrition: Men and let, or UV, radiation have women who do not eat a greater risk of developing a nutritious diet may be cataracts. increasing their risk of Some people may be developing cataracts. born with cataracts or The AOA admits studies develop them during examining a potential link childhood. Such cataracts between nutrient deficien- are known as congenital cy and cataracts are incon- cataracts and may be the clusive, but some studies have suggested there is See Cataracts, Page 18

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18 — The Daily Home, Wednesday, October 16, 2013

PRIMETIME

Prearranging funeral takes burden off family

By GARY HANNER Home staff writer

It’s something many people hesitate to do, or just really don’t want to deal with it – planning for the end.

People die every day, and planning for a funeral can be one of the hardest things family members have to go through when they’ve lost a loved one.

Vint Arnold has been Family Service counselor at Kilgroe Funeral Home in Pell City the past seven years. He said he was basically “the before and after” man.

“I help prearrange funerals, and then after the funeral I do an aftercare program with grief management,” he said.

Arnold is not the first person at the funeral home families talk to after a loved one dies.

“They will talk to the funeral director first,” he said. “I do the prearrangements ahead of time.”

Arnold said one in four families that use Kilgroe

Funeral Home have prearranged ahead of time.

“Having these funeral plans made ahead of time is good for several reasons,” Arnold said. “First of all, it’s good emotionally. Families do not have to make important decisions on one of the worst days of their lives. Most families when they go ahead and plan, they are amazed at how much easier it is. And they save money because many times when a loved one has just died, they will spend more on mother or daddy because they have just died. They will buy more expensive caskets and things like that at need instead of preneed.”

Arnold said another advantage of prearranged is that price locks in.

“It is guaranteed never to go up,” he said. Our prearrangements are insured.

Unless you are over 80 years old, you can do a 10-year payment plan with us. Because it is insured, if you are two years into your 10-year payment plan, and you die, it is paid in full.”

Arnold said at Kilgroe, everybody is insured.

“There is no one turned down for health concerns,” he said. “A lot of families come in when they get the word that their loved one is dying and on Hospice care. Even if they come in just one day before the actual death. It is one thing to expect someone to die, but once death occurs, it is a total different game.”

Arnold said Kilgroe is a Brown Service authorized funeral home.

“A lot of people in this area have purchased Brown Service/Kilgroe Funeral Home burial plans,” Arnold said. “They can save thousands of dollars on a funeral. They can take a $300 policy, and it basically pays for $4,000 to $5,000 toward the funeral.

It pays for the embalming, the pick-up, casket, visitation and service. Not all funeral homes are Brown Service authorized. The key to it is that the customer has to use the casket

Gary Hanner/The Daily Home

Vint Arnold talks to someone who has lost a family member.

Arnold is the Family Services counselor at Kilgroe Funeral Home in Pell City.

See Funerals, Page 19

Cataracts result of the mother having contracted an infection while pregnant. Kids born with cataracts may also have inherited them. For example, cataracts may be a side effect of Alport syndrome, a genetic condition characterized by kidney disease, hearing loss and abnormalities in the eye.

When a person develops cataracts, surgery is the only effective treatment.

But that does not neces-

sarily mean a doctor will suggest surgery right away.

Cataracts do not typically harm the eye, and delaying surgery does not mean you are less likely to regain your vision if and when you do opt for surgery. Doctors will likely recommend surgery when cataracts begin to impact quality of life, such as making reading or driving more difficult.

Cataracts are often mistakenly considered a byproduct of aging. But

not every aging man or woman will develop cataracts, and not all cataracts

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PRIMETIME

Funerals From Page 18

it calls for. Some don’t like the casket, and they are not the nicest in the world. Some people have different opinions about caskets. Some say it is just going in the ground anyway. Others say, ‘I am not going to stand around that at the funeral home.’

Using this casket is about a $4,500 savings on their funeral.”

When asked what a normal, regular funeral costs today, Arnold said a midrange funeral costs about $9,000.

“Caskets start at $895, and go up into the thousands of dollars,” he said.

“The average cost of a casket is $2,000. Vaults start at $1,195 and go up from there. We always sell con-

crete vaults. The cost of a funeral increases about 8 percent per year.”

Arnold said he highly recommends people coming in to prearrange funeral plans.

“It is an emotional advantage,” he said. “You get what you want. It saves a lot of bickering and fighting among family members. Sometimes in big families, one wants this while another family member wants that. Some say they are not paying for this or that. We have had a lot of families to go through physical altercations. It’s sad. But when you pick it out, you get what you want.”

Arnold said many people are now going to creSee Funerals, Page 20

Gary Hanner/The Daily Home

Funeral home directors say more and more families are having loved ones cremated once they die, mainly because it cuts down on the cost.

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20 — The Daily Home, Wednesday, October 16, 2013

Funerals From Page 19

mation.

Some folks are real weary over it,” he said.

“But once you have paid for your prearrangement, you cannot change the disposition of the body.

If they choose cremation, they will be cremated.”

Talladega Funeral Home opened in the fall of 1979.

Brittany Boozer is funeral director, and has worked at Talladega Funeral Home since 2009.

Scrapbook memorabilia for grandparents may include mementos from military days.

Historical scrapbooks can honor older relatives like to present different snapshots in time during his or her life. Either way, planning out the content of the scrapbook will make it easier to gather the necessary elements.

Once you’ve settled on a theme, begin your research by interviewing the eventual recipient (he or she doesn’t have to know the reason behind the inquiry).

During the interview, take note of key dates and try to establish the mood of the era with supporting materials. For example, you may be able to find samples of advertisements from a correlating period in history or newspaper clippings that can be used to fluff up the content of the book.

In the meantime, gather photos that can be used in the scrapbook, which may take some hunting. Prints can be scanned and copied via a desktop scanner at

home, or loaded onto a CD or thumb drive and brought to a pharmacy photo kiosk. Some specialty shops can even scan slides or convert stills from film into images. Make sure to make copies of all original prints and be careful not to lose or damage the originals.

Scrapbooks can be made manually with materials purchased anywhere from craft and hobby stores to stationery shops. There are

She said prearranging a funeral is the number one thing to help keep the cost down.

“The price is locked in and will not go up,” Boozer said. “Families can cut costs, but not losing quality of service.”

Boozer said they have options to accommodate any preneed budget. She also said there is a range of options to accommodate any budget.

“There are a lot more people choosing cremation today than there were four years ago when I first came,” Boozer said. “Years ago, people just didn’t accept cremation, but more and more are leaning that way, and finances do play a role in it.”

See Memories, Page 22 Wendell Hickman is Todd Malone, MPT, ATC

Ben Donahoo PTA

one of the funeral directors at Radney-Smith Funeral Home in Sylacauga. He agrees that the number one way to keep down the cost of funerals is planning in advance.

“As prices have increased through the years, if a family is locked in with a prearrangement, their price stays the same,” Hickman said. “Families can save tons of money.”

Hickman said if a family does not have a prearranged funeral plan, he highly recommends it.

“We have counselors

here who can help families,” Hickman said. “We have family plans that can fit any need or any budget.”

He said some families do use cremation as an alternative plan.

“Religious beliefs come into play with cremation,” he said. “A lot of the younger people use cremation. I’ve seen a slight increase in cremation in the past couple of years.”

Contact Gary Hanner at ghanner@thestclairtimes. com.

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There are so many different and creative ways for families to showcase their heritage and honor a grandparent or other special senior. Scrapbooks are one such way to share the life of a special person and indirectly tell the tale of your family history.

Very often personal history projects are a part of elementary school curricula, so you may already have the makings of a family tree or a family diary in your home. All it takes is a little more research and some planning to design a scrapbook that can be gifted or kept for generations to enjoy.

Begin by making an outline of what you would like to cover in the scrapbook. Perhaps there is a specific event in a grandparent’s life that is worth highlighting, like a military tour of duty or a brief stint in show business. Maybe you would

PRIMETIME

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The Daily Home, Wednesday, October 16, 2013 — 21

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22 — The Daily Home, Wednesday, October 16, 2013

PRIMETIME

Early warning signs of Alzheimer’s disease Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia. It is a progressive, degenerative disorder that attacks neurons and essentially robs people of their memory and language skills. Although there is no cure for Alzheimer’s, there are therapies that can slow its neurological impact. Recognizing the early warning signs of Alzheimer’s can encourage people to begin treatments that can stave off some of the more debilitating symptoms of this disease.

Though it’s most common among the elderly, Alzheimer’s is not a normal part of aging. The Mayo Clinic says that the reasons behind the inception and progression of Alzheimer’s disease are largely unknown. It is believed damage starts a decade or more before problems become evident.

Abnormal deposits of proteins begin to form the amyloid plaques and tau tangles throughout the brain, and these formations are the hallmarks of the disease. Once-healthy neurons gradually begin to lose their efficiency and ability to function and communicate with one another. As more neurons

difficulty balancing their checkbooks, while those who love to cook may have trouble following recipes.

• Time confusion: Another indicator of Alzheimer’s disease is losing track of time. One may have trouble understanding something that isn’t happening in the present.

Alzheimer’s sufferers often forget where they are and how they got there.

die, entire areas of the brain shrink. The hippocampus, which is the area of the brain essential in forming memories, may soon become compromised.

Millions of people in North America are estimated to have Alzheimer’s disease and many others will be diagnosed. The following are the most common early signs and symptoms of the disease.

• Memory loss: According to the Alzheimer’s Organization,

early memory loss can include forgetting important dates or repeatedly asking for the same information. Forgetting recently learned information and having to rely increasingly on memory aids is another potential indicator of Alzheimer’s.

• Declining cognition: Impaired reasoning or judgment, trouble finding the right words and visual and spatial issues also may be early indicators of Alzheimer’s.

Memories From Page 20

a variety of paper-cutting tools, adhesives, stickers, labels, and stencils that can be used to enhance the look of the scrapbook. There also are computer software programs or online tools through photo-sharing sites that enable you to upload images and text and design photo books entirely online. Then the finished product can be

printed out in a variety of finishes. This method may actually be preferable for those who plan to save the scrapbook or anticipate it being such a big hit that others will want their own copies.

the future you will have all of the information at your fingertips. The scrapbook also will serve as a good source material down the line should future generations want to learn about their ancestors.

Create a digital file of all of your information and copies of images. This way if you ever want to add to the scrapbook or reproduce information in

Scrapbooking is more than just detailing baby’s first birthday or a vacation.

This popular pastime can help document the life of a special senior.

• Difficulty completing familiar tasks: Those with Alzheimer’s sometimes have trouble driving to a familiar location or remembering the rules to a favorite game. People who were once good with numbers may now have

• Misplacing items: Everyone loses something at a point in time, but those with Alzheimer’s may put items in unusual places. They may sometimes accuse others of stealing when they cannot retrace their steps and find items.

• Decreased judgment: Decision-making abilities may be compromised. A person with Alzheimer’s may take unnecessary risks or give away sums of money.

• Mood changes: People with Alzheimer’s may suffer from confusion, suspicious feelings, depression and anxiety. A person may upset easily or become anxious outside of his or her comfort zones.

Age and family history of Alzheimer’s disease are the biggest risk factors.

The likelihood of developing Alzheimer’s doubles about every five years after age 65, says the Alzheimer’s Organization. In addition, those with a parent, child or sibling who have developed Alzheimer’s are more likely to develop the disease than people with no such family history.

A physical and neurological exam, which may include blood tests and brain imaging, will be used to diagnose Alzheimer’s disease. Individuals can learn more by making appointments with their doctors.

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The Daily Home, Wednesday, October 16, 2013 — 23

PRIMETIME

Things to consider before aging relative moves in Space in home, personal finances just 2 things to keep in mind

Asking an aging relative to move into your home is often a selfless decision rooted in the affection you feel for that person. But there are certain things to consider about your home as well as your finances before inviting an aging relative to move in.

Space in the Home When your household is taking on a new member, you will obviously need to find some space for that person. But if you’re currently at full capacity, then you will need to determine if the space you have is truly capable of handling an additional member of the household. Seniors often value their privacy, so sharing a room is not an ideal option nor one that your relative is likely to embrace. If you determine you’ll need to remodel or add a new suite to your home, it’s important to know that such projects

can be very expensive, with a room addition very likely costing close to or more than six figures.

But men and women with lots of available space in their home may find their home is not ideal for seniors, either. For example, seniors whose physical condition is less than ideal might not be able to get up or down stairs easily and might find walking from room to room in a large house to be too physically taxing.

Before inviting an aging relative into your home, be sure the space available in your home is suitable that person and their particular condition.

Proximity to Medical Facilities Many seniors need to visit medical facilities more frequently than younger men and women.

This makes the proximity of your home to doctors’ offices a significant factor to consider before inviting an aging relative to move into your home. If your home is far off the beaten path or in an area where access to medical care is sparse, then your loved one’s health may be compromised if he or she moves into your home.

Discuss your loved one’s medical condition and history with them before extending an invitation. If he or she has

considerable medical needs and your access to reliable medical facilities is limited, then you might need to move before you can comfortably house an aging relative or explore other housing options for this person.

Personal Finances The cost of caring for an aging relative is considerable. According to the MetLife Mature Market Institute, the average cost of in-home care for a parent who requires a home health aide was slightly less than $22,000 per year in 2011. That’s a considerable amount of

money, especially for men and women whose own retirement is imminent.

Because those costs are so substantial, many men and women care for their aging relatives on their own, which can still prove quite costly over the long haul. Taking on that role might impact income you sorely need, especially if you’re forced to scale back your workload so you can better care for an aging relative.

Inviting an aging relative to move into your home is a decision that requires careful consideration of a host of factors.

The number of drivers 70 and over is predicted to triple in North America over the next 20 years. Research indicates that the older a person is, the higher the risk of driver accident or fatality.

The risk posed by older drivers and the inevitable increase in older drivers on the road over the next two decades has sparked debate as to whether or not such drivers should be reexamined to ensure safety on the road?

In 2003, an 86-year-old man unintentionally killed 10 people and injured more than 70 when he drove his car through a crowded farmer’s market in Santa Monica, Calif. In 2010, a 72-year-old Connecticut man faced vehicular manslaughter charges for alleg-

edly striking and killing a motorcyclist. In 2012, an elderly man in Buffalo, N.Y. caused an accident resulting in three fatalities when he traveled in the wrong direction on the New York State Thruway.

Very frequently the local news is peppered with reports of elderly drivers causing serious accidents.

Some wonder if more stringent requirements for elderly drivers would help the situation.

Thirty-three states presently have legislation in place to ensure drivers can retain driving privileges once they reach a certain age. It’s important to note that, according to the National Safety Council, drivers over the age of 75

See Driving, Page 24

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As many seniors age, their ability to live independently is compromised. An older adult may suffer from a medical condition that makes it difficult or impossible for him or her to drive an automobile or manage day-to-day life independently. In such instances, many younger relatives opt to invite an aging parent or grandparent into their homes, a decision that men and women should not take lightly.

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24 — The Daily Home, Wednesday, October 16, 2013

Driving From Page 23

Several things must be considered as your retirement approaches Though many people are delaying retirement, the day will still come when they leave their jobs behind and retire.

Retirement can be a difficult adjustment that takes some getting used to, but it can also prove an exciting time, especially for those who planned ahead to ensure their retirement was a time to be cherished and not feared.

Whether retirement is right around the corner or still a decade or so away, men and women should consider several factors to make sure their retirement years are an enjoyable time that allows them to live life to the fullest.

• Income: Just because you’re no longer working doesn’t mean you won’t have income. Government benefits, retirement accounts and perhaps even some light consulting work are just a few ways retirees can earn an income.

Though your retirement income will likely pale in comparison to your income as an adult working full-time, estimate what that income will be so you can get at least an idea of how much will be coming in each month.

• Monthly expenses: Once you have an idea of what’s coming in, estimate how much will be going out each month.

Certain costs associated with working, such as the

cost of commuting and maintaining a professional wardrobe, can be removed from the ledger. But other expenses, including utilities, car payments and possibly even a mortgage payment, will still need to be made.

Once you have an idea of your projected income and your expenses during retirement, you can get to work on a prospective budget to show you what you will need to live on during retirement.

your time in separate cities?

how you can make those wishes a reality.

Is a retirement village something you might be amenable to?

• Medical costs: Private insurance or governmentsponsored programs likely won’t cover all of your medical costs, which typically increase as a person ages.

Each of these options is different, and each requires a different financial commitment, so carefully consider where you want to spend your retirement and then consider

There are various ways to prepare for the medical costs that might arise

during retirement, and the earlier you start that preparation the less stressful paying for medical care as you age figures to be.

Retirement should be an exciting time for men and women, especially for those who have spent years planning their retirement to ensure it’s as enjoyable as possible.

• Employment: Many people now look at retirement as the end of one career and the beginning of another. As retirement draws closer, men and women might want to consider turning an interest or passion into a second career. Such a move might make retirement more exciting while removing some of the fear of finding enough things to pass the time that many people have with regard to retirement.

• Relocation: Where to spend your retirement years is another thing to consider before the big day arrives. Do you, like many retirees, prefer to stay in your own home?

Do you want to relocate to a warmer climate or move to another country?

Do you want to move closer to your children and grandchildren?

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account for only 3.3 percent of accidents in the United States. Drivers age 25 to 34 account for the largest number of accidents, at nearly 20 percent.

Some argue that these findings do not paint an accurate picture because senior drivers spend far less time behind the wheel and log fewer miles than younger drivers, reducing the chance for accidents.

Though the debate about older drivers figures to remain a hot topic, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration notes that aging can affect drivers in a number of ways.

The physical and mental changes that accompany aging can have a profound impact on a person’s ability to safely operate a motor vehicle. Reaction times may be slower, hearing and vision loss may affect driver awareness, loss of muscle strength and flexibility can make steering more difficult and medication can impair focus and/or concentration.

Many senior centers and organizations offer programs that allow elderly drivers to brush up on their skills behind the wheel.

Drivers also can contact their insurance companies to see if there are any sponsored classes they can take to reassess their skills and possibly lower their insurance premiums. AAA offers a Driver Improvement course and suggests seniors find a car they can safely and comfortably operate.

AAA also offers Roadwise Rx, a free online tool that provides confidential, individualized feedback about medication side effects and how these drugs may impact drivers on the road.

AARP also offers a Driver Safety course.

PRIMETIME

The Daily Home, Wednesday, October 16, 2013 — 25

PRIMETIME

Elderly are especially susceptible to the heat Many people might choose a nice, hot day over a blustery, cold afternoon.

However, excessively hot days cannot only feel uncomfortable, but they can also prove life-threatening. Elderly men and women, in particular, are susceptible to the effects of hot temperatures.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, people ages 65 and older are more prone to heat stroke and heat-related stress than those of other ages. Seniors’ bodies are not able to adjust to sudden changes in temperature as quickly as younger people’s. A chronic condition that affects the body’s response to heat, as well as taking certain prescription medications also may play a role in seniors’ susceptibility to the heat.

The City of Sacramento Department of Parks and Recreation says that around 370 deaths from heat-related illnesses occur across the United States each year. Nearly half of those deaths are people who are 65 and older.

Prolonged heat exposure can take quite a toll on the average person. Factor in the more delicate health of many seniors, and the hot weather can be quite dangerous.

Further compounding the problem is higher energy costs. Seniors living on fixed incomes may not be able to afford to turn on air conditioners because of the power draw.

There are different types of heat-related inju-

ries, though heat exhaustion and heat stroke are the most common. Here are signs that a person may be experiencing one or the other.

Heat Exhaustion • weakness • tiredness • heavy sweating • paleness • dizziness • nausea • vomiting • fainting • fast, weak pulse rate • headache • fast and shallow breathing Heat stroke • extremely high body temperature (over 105 F) • red, hot and dry skin • absence of sweat • throbbing headache • dizziness • nausea What to do Friends or family members should check in with an elderly relative or friend when the weather is especially warm to ensure they’re safely handling the heat.

In addition, people of all ages can take the following precautions to keep cool when the temperatures rise.

• Drink cool, nonalcoholic beverages. Water and diluted fruit juices can help rehydrate the body quickly.

• Restrict physical activity.

• Take a cool shower or bath or wipe yourself down with a damp cloth.

• Seek an air-conditioned environment. For those who won’t or can’t turn on the air conditioning, visit a shopping mall or library to keep cool.

Some towns and cities also make cooling centers available in extreme heat.

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• Wear hats or use an umbrella to shield your head from sunshine outdoors.

• Eat cool foods, but avoid extremely cold foods. Otherwise you risk the chance of developing stomach cramps.

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• Do not do laundry or turn on appliances that contribute to extra indoor heat.

• Try to remain indoors during the hottest hours of the day.

The heat is nothing to take lightly, especially when it comes to seniors’ health.

• Wear clothing.

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PRIMETIME

Pros and cons of antiwrinkle injections Since Botox(R) received Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval back in April 2002, it and its successors have become the drugs of choice in wrinkle reduction. These treatments are a derivative of the botulinum toxin, the same bacteria that causes botulism.

Botulinum toxin is one of the more powerful neurotoxins discovered. Because it deadens nerve impulses and relaxes muscles, it is

weigh the risks associated before making the commitment to the treatments. Furthermore, it is important to visit a qualified cosmetic specialist, dermatologist or cosmetic surgeon for the administration of any botulinum toxin.

widely used to relax the face in areas where wrinkles are prevalent, thusly reducing the appearance of wrinkles as well.

The types of facial lines that are most often treated with these products are the ones that appear when one is frowning or squinting. Frown lines, wrinkles on the forehead, crows feet and the like are frequent treatment areas.

Areas on the lower half of the face are sometimes treated, but it’s controversial due to the risk of damaging important facial nerves.

There are potentially serious risks associated

Injections to reduce the appearance of wrinkles are often very effective but carry some risks.

with these wrinkle treatments. It is important to

Grandparents are helping to raise their grandchildren The stalled economy has pushed many families into the position of doing whatever is needed to make ends meet. In many cases, this means both parents working whatever jobs they can find and finding the best childcare option while they are at work.

Many people are turning to their parents to help care for their kids.

More than 60 percent of families with children under age 18 had both parents employed outside the home in 2005 to 2006, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. That compares to less than a third of mothers in 1975.

The numbers today are around 42 percent, a decrease that likely has a lot to do with unemployment figures remaining

high. Human Resources and Skills Development Canada states that there are similar statistics among Canadian families.

With so many men and women heading to work each day, and money a factor for doing so, the topic of child care becomes one of necessity as well as affordability. Grandparents are regularly stepping up to help family members who are under a financial crunch.

Grandparents considering caring for their grandkids should keep in mind some things even if the childcare scenario on the surface seems like it is the best option.

• It’s a big commitment.

Once the decision has been made, it is expected that you will be providing

care for a certain period of time — perhaps even without a future end date.

Remember, other arrangements will have to be made if you back out because it’s simply not working.

• Know your limits.

Childcare is not something to take lightly. While you may have had enough energy to provide care years ago, maybe now you are simply not up to the task or have not identified factors that could hinder your ability to care for a grandchild — no matter how much you love him or her.

• Be prepared for changes to your life. You will no longer be able to operate on your own schedule.

Now your days will largely See Help, Page 27

Pros These procedures are relatively safe when administered by a skilled person. They are known to temporarily erase wrinkles for 3 to 6 months. Many people find a boost in selfesteem after receiving a treatment. Many others have gotten compliments about looking younger or happier, especially if wrin-

kles created an angry or sad expression to the face.

Injections are less expensive than other cosmetic surgery.

Cons As with any drug treatment, there are side effects that may negate the benefits of treatment. These can include drooping of eyelids, swelling, redness or bruising at injection sites, and infections. Faces also may lack emotions and limit a person’s ability to communicate effectively.

It’s when the botulinum toxin spreads outside of the treatment area where severe side effects

can occur that might be life threatening. These include all-over muscle weakness, hoarseness, loss of bladder control, problems swallowing or breathing and other side effects.

Because this is a medical procedure, it is important to have a medical professional administer the product in a medical setting. “Botox parties,” where an unskilled technician performs the injections can be risky for all involved.

Wrinkle treatments can be effective, but carry with them some risks. Explore all the benefits and risks prior to administration of botulinum toxin.

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The Daily Home, Wednesday, October 16, 2013 — 27

PRIMETIME

Help From Page 26

revolve around caring for your grandkids. If many of your friends are living active lives without grandchildren in tow, this could put a hamper on your relationships and ability to socialize.

• It could be just what you need. On the flip side, if you have been seeking something to do with your time, being in the presence of your grandchildren could be just what you need to find a purpose to your days.

• The relationship may cause animosity. If you are offering care to one set of grandchildren and are not doing so to another, it could strain the relationships among your children. Think about the larger factor before agreeing to being the caregiver.

Whether retirement is on the horizon or has already begun, more free time equates to an increased opportunity to fill your days with enjoyable activities.

Individuals facing busy schedules are often forced to push hobbies to the sidelines, as more pressing things, such as a job, household responsibilities, and parenting tasks, are accomplished. Once retirement arrives, a newfound freedom in your schedule may occur, and there can be plenty of hours to devote to the hobbies and pastimes you find enjoyable.

According to research, hobbies can have many benefits. They may serve as an emotional outlet or a way to relax. Hobbies can keep the mind and hands active. They also allow for quiet time and mind wandering — which can free up creative thinking.

Hobbies can also serve as a means to connecting with people and opening up new groups of friends.

There are many hobbies you can consider, depending on physical health and abilities. These may be hobbies you once enjoyed in the past or new activities to expand your horizons. And hobbies need not be crafty in the traditional sense, just about any activity — even being a mentor — can be a form of a hobby.

perhaps a woodworking hobby will be enjoyable and also may work as a source of income revenue.

Other activities that require the use of the hands and mind include knitting, needlepoint, painting, puzzles, quilting, scrapbooking, and crocheting. These can keep the mind active and improve dexterity and fine motor skills.

Next, you may want to consider the costs surrounding a hobby. While something like taking photos may have relatively low costs, collectibles, exotic sports, sports cars, and travel could become expensive. It’s important to weight the costs against your finances to ensure that you will be financially comfortable while engaging in this particular hobby.

Starting a hobby When deciding on a hobby, you can first take an inventory of your skills and interests. If you have always been handy around wood and construction,

Other pastimes A hobby can take the form of volunteer work, teaching, mentoring, joining a martial arts class, taking classes at a college, and even caring for a pet.

Explore what your friends are doing. If you want to get into a new hobby, ask neighbors and friends what they do to keep busy — and try it out. You just may find that you’re naturally inclined to do this type of activity and enjoy it.

Visit a local hobby shop or craft store and browse through the aisles.

See where your attention is drawn and give that activity a try. From building model trains to cultivating an herb garden, there are dozens of ideas to try.

Sewing can be a hobby that seniors do after retirement when they have ample free time.

If you are the type who likes to interact with other people instead of engaging in a solitary hobby, consider one of these types of

activities instead.

Once a hobby is started, it is not set in stone.

If you find you do not feel motivated to do this

hobby, try something else.

Remember, the days are now yours to fill, so maximize time spent with activities you can enjoy.

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• Talk to your spouse.

If you are married or are in a relationship, this is a decision that will have to be discussed with your partner, whose life will be impacted as well. If both of you aren’t seeing eyeto-eye on the situation, it may cause a rift that can damage your relationship.

• Avoid guilt. If you choose to say no to the situation, it may generate hurt feelings at the onset, but if you explain your reasons clearly, chances are the loved one will understand how you are feeling.

Although grandparents stepping in to become childcare providers for their grandchildren while parents are at work has become a popular situation in recent years, it is important to weigh the pros and cons of the situation before delving headfirst into the arrangement.

Hobbies for the golden years

28 — The Daily Home, Wednesday, October 16, 2013

PRIMETIME

Travel ideas for active senior citizens Those who have said goodbye to the work-aday grind now have many hours to settle down and relax. People who have continually put off vacations in lieu of work responsibilities may now have all the time they need to explore the world.

Traveling for seniors can be rewarding and relaxing.

Those with a substantial retirement nest egg have numerous destinations at their disposal. Mature vacationers travel more frequently and stay longer than any other age group.

Travel ranks among the top leisure activities for men and women over 50, according to the Web site Suddenly Senior.

Seniors can find several travel advantages at their disposal. Also, thanks to special senior discounts, travel may be even more affordable than first expected.

While certain destinations are not always practical for certain age brackets, there are many places to which seniors can visit comfortably and enjoy a wealth of memories.

• Theme parks: Although theme parks may seem carved out entirely for the adventureseekers, there are many other more placid activities that would appeal to those who prefer to keep their feet firmly on the ground rather than looping through the air on a rocket-propelled coaster.

With animal preserves, water parks, fine dining,

and a bevy of hotels either in the park or directly on the outskirts, theme parks provide many activities for older travelers. Although theme parks require a lot of walking, many provide wheelchairs or motorized scooters for those who need to get off of their feet. They also make a great option for seniors who will be traveling with the entire family, including children.

• Beach resorts: Provided flying is medically safe, a beachside vacation can be the ideal trip for seniors looking for the utmost in relaxation.

For those who have passports, the possibilities are endless. Those who prefer to remain on relatively domestic soil can retreat to Puerto Rico, south Florida, the California coast, Hawaii, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

• Cruising: Cruising is a preferred vacation choice for the 50+ set because it offers the convenience of an all-inclusive package and transportation all in one. With the myriad activities offered on board, cruises are a versatile vacation option for seniors.

Also, there is no need to worry about traveling far for meals and other entertainment options, as everything is self-contained on the cruise ship.

For more active seniors who enjoy the daily getaway, excursions in ports of call can provide the variety desired.

• Guided tours: Seniors who want to experience a piece of history can sign up for tour packages backed by reputable companies. The tours may involve train or bus travel, and various attractions will be visited. At the end of the tour, individuals can choose to extend the vacation by checking into a hotel nearby.

• RV trips: Another selfcontained vacation that is entirely up to the people traveling is vacationing by recreational vehicle.

Seniors can customize their routes depending on which areas they want to see.

Companies like Cruise America RV enable people to rent an RV so they needn’t worry about the expense of buying one outright. However, should RV traveling become addictive, there always is the option of buying a camper later on. Setting an

itinerary and then establishing the pace enables travelers to tour the country or cross the border as desired. From beaches to national parks, many areas offer RV hook-up areas and amenities.

• Exotic tour: Seniors who were never able to afford or spare the time for an extensive vacation may now want to visit those exotic locations that have beckoned for years.

Now could be the time to book a ticket for Europe and visit all of the cities that have made the history books. Those looking for even more adventure can travel to the South Pacific and explore tropical islands. Others may want to go “down under” and experience the rugged Outback or the culture of Australian city centers.

With a bevy of free time and fewer restrictions holding them back, seniors could be ready for the next great travel adventure.

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PRIMETIME

How to prepare for hospice care person come to terms with the end of life. Although hospice is a concept that has gradually evolved since the 11th century, the principles of modern hospice care can trace their roots to the 1950s and Dame Cicely Saunders, a nurse and social worker who is known as the creator of the hospice movement.

If hospice care is outlined in a dying person’s living will or expressed wishes, there are some guidelines that can be followed by the sick individual.

• Visit various medical care centers to see if away-from-home options provide the care and environment you desire. If Be sure to establish what type of hospice care you prefer. This may include care within a nursing home or hospital, or in the comfort of your own home.

• Sign a medical durable power of attorney.

This signed document gives authority to an adult age 18 or older, who then has the right to make necessary medical and healthcare decisions for you in the event you become incapacitated.

• Clearly indicate your wishes regarding resuscitation. A signed document may alert emergency healthcare personnel or others of your wishes not to be resuscitated. This document must be signed by you and a doctor and witnessed by others.

• Decide on the duration of care. Hospice care generally lasts six months.

This enables a long stretch of palliative care. Should

you live beyond the time period, hospice care can continue. Studies have shown that patients who receive hospice care for at least 30 to 60 days gain greater benefit than those who are placed in hospice only in their final days.

• Investigate financial options for hospice.

Medicare and Medicaid provide hospice coverage in 44 states. Many private insurance plans have a hospice benefit as well.

Understand how payment is made to figure out if private funding will be necessary.

Not all hospice programs are the same.

Certain core models of care are followed by many hospice facilities, but options vary. Hospice can provide comfort in a person’s final days and help sufferers better enjoy life and time spent with loved ones in these last days.

Hospice care offers palliative, not curative, care, aiming to keep the terminally ill comfortable in their final days.

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Sometimes patients succumb to a disease, in spite of the best treatments and support. When the time comes for a family to confront a loved one’s declining health, hospice care can be a dignified way to make that person’s final days as comforting as possible.

Hospice is a type of care designed to make the final moments of a person’s life as pain-free and manageable as possible. It can take place in a medical facility, but very often hospice care occurs at home or wherever the ill person feels most comfortable.

Hospice care is usually the last step when all other options have been exhausted. Making the decision to move a loved one to hospice care can be an emotionally wrenching time. Decisions such as these may be better made at a time in a person’s life when he or she is not sick. That is why living wills that spell out details for end-of-life care can be quite valuable. Decisions are made with a level head and not wrought with emotions.

Such living wills also can take the pressure off of family members who may not feel comfortable making such decisions on their own or in concert with relatives.

Hospice is a type of care and a philosophy that focuses on the palliative care of terminally ill patients. Rather than providing medication to try to treat the illness, medicine is offered to make a person more comfortable and remove any pain.

Psychological therapy may also be offered to help the

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PRIMETIME

Financial pointers for older, unmarried couples

Did you know?

reluctant to leave office life, but because of a variety of factors that have to do with finances. Many companies no longer offer pension plans, so men are more likely to work longer to save more money for their retirement. In addition, Social Security benefits are calculated differently than they were in the past, so men have a greater incentive to work longer.

But finances aren’t the only reason men work longer.

Manynow have jobs that are not physically taxing.

According to the Center for Retirement Research at Boston College University, men are retiring later than they have in the past. In an analysis of data collected by the U.S. Census Bureau, the Center for Retirement Research found the average retirement age for men has risen from 62 in the mid-1990s to 64 near the end of the first decade of the 21st century. The reasons for this change are likely not because men are

your own bills, including car payments and credit cards, at the onset as well.

• Update certain documents and policies. Upon your death, a partner with whom you cohabitate does not have the same legal rights of inheritance as would a spouse. As a result, it’s important for unmarried individuals who cohabitate with their partners to update their wills, especially if they have been cohabitating for an extended period of time and want their partner to be taken care of in case of their death.

In addition to updating information regarding beneficiaries, older men and women might want to update certain information regarding their health,

like who should take legal responsibility for medical decisions should one partner become incapacitated.

In addition to updating your will, update any existing life insurance policies and retirement benefits to include your partner if you so desire.

• Discuss any changes with your family, especially any children. When you make changes to your will, those changes will affect your beneficiaries. Upon making these changes, discuss them with your existing beneficiaries so your partner does not have to deal with relatives whose feelings might be hurt upon your death. This might not be an easy discussion, but you will want

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While the incentives to doing so are numerous, there are some precautionary measures couples should take before moving in together.

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your partner to have your family as a support system upon your death.

Older, unmarried couples are choosing to cohabitate more and more.

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finances. Older couples, however, might be bringing a more substantial financial portfolio into the relationship, and these finances can complicate matters. Before moving in together, older couples should document their finances and how household expenses, including a mortgage if one exists, will be paid. Decisions regarding who will receive the tax breaks you might be eligible for when paying a mortgage should also be considered. Documenting your financial situation can protect your assets should you break up. If these arrangements are not documented, unmarried couples who break up could find themselves in a contentious financial battle not unlike couples going through a divorce.

• Maintain some financial independence.

Older, unmarried men and women who choose to cohabitate with their partners should still maintain some financial independence after moving in together. A joint checking or savings account might work down the road, but initially keep these accounts separate to avoid any disputes. Keep paying

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Moving in together is something typically associated with young couples, but more and more unmarried men and women over the age of 50 are choosing to cohabitate. According to an analysis of 2012 U.S. Census data conducted by the Performance Reference Bureau, roughly 10 percent of the 15.3 million opposite-sex unmarried cohabiting partners in the United States are between the ages of 55 and 64, while 15 percent are between the ages of 45 and 54.

Such figures indicate that living together as an unmarried couple is no longer exclusive to younger couples. The incentives for older, unmarried couples to cohabitate are similar to those for younger ones, but older couples should heed a few financial pointers before deciding to move in together.

• Iron out the financial details ahead of time.

Young couples who move in together often do so as a precursor to getting married. Such couples do not typically have much in the way of financial assets and, as a result, do not need to come to any formal agreement regarding their

32 — The Daily Home, Wednesday, October 16, 2013

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