55 and Better – January 25, 2022

Issue 9 | WINTER 2022

MAKING

MUSIC

Petersen, Lee cross generations to form singing duo

Get convenient access to Indiana’s top cardiologists.

Call 317.962.0500 to book your consult today.

Prevent winter falls Commentary by Dr. David Sullivan

D Stay Fit. Stay Connected. Stay Inspired.

Marquette is a not-for-profit senior living community, giving you the life you want to live.

With a wide variety of beautifully designed residential options and maintenance-free living, our community gives you the flexibility and control over everything you do.

Spiritually connect with us at 4 p.m. daily for Mass in our beautiful chapel.

Our community also offers various dining venues, a state-of-the-art aquatic center, and wellness programs for endless opportunities — and it’s all just steps from your front door.

Call (317) 875-9700 or visit MarquetteSeniorLiving.org to schedule a personal appointment.

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Owned by Retirement Living, Inc., a Not-For-Profit Corporation

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55 AND BETTER Winter 2022

uring our long, cold Indiana winters, ice and snow provide more opportunities for slips, trips and falls, increasing the risk for foot and ankle injuries.

When snow or ice does hit, there’s not much chance of escaping it, but there are always ways to keep yourself safe and reduce your chance of taking a spill.

Here are five ways to avoid a winter fall: Don’t rush around If you’re trying to rush to your office on time, or hurrying home, you’re more likely to slip in some slush or miss that icy patch in the parking lot. Rushing dampens your alertness and makes you less aware of conditions around you. Rapid steps can cause you to be less stable, too.

Wear weather-appropriate shoes Weather-proof shoes, like boots with heavy soles and good traction, are a must! High heels or fancy dress shoes might make a statement, but they can also get you a nasty ankle sprain or another injury if you’re relying on them in winter weather.

Stick with your orthotics Even when you switch out your shoes for winter boots, remember that your orthotic inserts keep you stable. So, you should wear orthotics all winter long, or you may be more vulnerable to falls due to loss of balance.

Keep your hands free Avoid carrying kids or packages around icy areas, which can throw your balance off and make you more likely to fall. Keeping your hands tucked into your coat pockets can affect your balance, so don’t forget the gloves, too.

Don’t be afraid to shuffle If you must walk in an icy area, take short, shuffling steps and keep your feet as flat as you can.

Did you take a spill in the snow? First, follow the RICE method of rest, ice, compression and elevation. Next, contact our office so we can assess the injury and discuss the proper treatment methods with you.

A board-certified foot surgeon and wound specialist, Dr. David Sullivan is the owner of Westfield Foot and Ankle, LLC. Contact him at drs@westfieldfoot.com.

317-492-9569 www.applegate-dillman.com Let 2022 be the year you plan for your family’s peace of mind!

Call for your free consultation at 317-492-9569

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55 AND BETTER Winter 2022

3

Westfield resident retires after nearly five decades with state agencies

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

M

ike Smith worked for 48plus years in state agencies in a variety of capacities.

Smith concluded his career by working for the Indiana Dept. of Natural Resources for 11-plus years, retiring Dec. 31, 2021. He was first the Smith DNR’s chief financial officer and then its chief of staff.

“I truly enjoyed my most recent years with DNR,” Smith said. “Not many people can say that they get paid for visiting a state park. Under the Gov. (Eric) Holcomb administration, DNR received an unprecedented $80 million allocation of deferred maintenance dollars to assist in upgrading and rehabbing campgrounds, restrooms, shelters, cabins, etc., at numerous DNR properties across the state.

“DNR also received appropriations to build tens of miles of new trails and an appropriation to build a new inn at Potato Creek State Park.”

Prior to the DNR post, the Westfield resident worked for four other state agencies.

Smith, 67, started working part-time on the Indiana

Come join us!

Come join us!

New and just getting started!

New and just getting started!

Veterans Home grounds crew near West Lafayette after he graduated from West Lafayette Harrison High School. He worked summers starting in 1973.

He attended Indiana University for two years, enrolled at Purdue for a year.

“I started my first full-time job in May of 1977,” he said. “I got married to my wife in 1979 and have been happily married for 42-plus years. I went back to college at IUPUI part-time after getting married and graduated from the IU School of Business in 1983, majoring in management and administration.”

Smith worked for the Indiana Criminal Justice Institute in grant management from 1977 to 1989; was an Indiana State Police Dept., controller/chief financial officer “I truly enjoyed my most recent years with DNR,” Smith said. “Not many people can say that they get paid for visiting a state park.

Under the Gov. (Eric) Holcomb administration, DNR received an unprecedented $80 million allocation of deferred maintenance dollars to assist in upgrading and rehabbing campgrounds, restrooms, shelters, cabins, etc., at numerous DNR properties across the state.”

55 AND BETTER Winter 2022

Let’s go girls!

With a little help from friends!

With my a little help from my friends!

Let’s go girls!

Derek, get the guys over here!

Derek, get the

guys over here!

Oh yeah! We look good!

Oh yeah!

We look good!

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from 1989 to 2000; and worked for the Indiana State Budget Agency as a budget analyst and assistant state budget director 2000 to 2010.

“I was the director of the Indiana Office of Traffic Safety when the seatbelt law became effective in July 1987,” he said. “That was a big deal at the time. I was a member of the state’s bargaining team during union settlement negotiations with state law enforcement agencies (State Police, Excise Police and Conservation Officers).

I believe that was 1990-1991. Those negotiations were the first of their kind in state government.

“I also oversaw the budgets of 40-plus state agencies during the Great Recession of 2008. That was a very stressful time.”

Smith said he is still figuring out retirement plans.

“My wife and I have a couple of timeshares that we haven’t used since the pandemic, thus we will likely travel around the country to a certain extent,” Smith said.

“We have several friends in Florida that we will likely visit. We will also attend many basketball, baseball, football and soccer events watching our grandchildren.

My wife, Donna, and I have two children, Justin (Zionsville) and Nicole (Westfield). We have five grandchildren ranging from ages 10 to 3.”

Prior to moving to Westfield in 2018, Smith lived on the far northside of Indianapolis for 32 years.

Nick, get in the picture!

Nick, get in the picture!

CALL TODAY AND SCHEDULE CALL TODAY SCHEDULE YOUR FREE 2AND WEEK TRIAL! YOUR FREE 2 WEEK TRIAL!

317.343.2537 317.343.2537

Physical therapy needed after knee replacement surgery Commentary by Linda Barnes

S

tatistics show us that more than 600,000 people across the U.S. have a total knee replacement surgery each year. We are not getting any younger, and our waistlines seem to keep expanding. Both are contributing factors to pain, damage and injuries to our knees. In turn, this leads to an increase in the number of knee replacement procedures each year.

Two ways to ensure success following

a total knee replacement are to enroll in a physical therapy program and to commit oneself to a lifelong exercise program.

Physical therapy typically begins during the patient’s stay in the hospital.

The initial goal is simply to get the patient ambulatory. This will help decrease swelling in the knee and will increase the patient’s range of motion. On the day of surgery, the patient will likely be using a walker and taking a few steps with assistance of the physical therapist.

During the two weeks following surgery, the patient will be doing a variety of exercises with the therapist, including leg raises, ankle pumps, knee straightening and supported knee bends. The goal in this time frame is to reach 90-degree flexion.

In the third through sixth weeks, the patient will likely use a cane, or perhaps not require any device for walking. They will start doing normal daily tasks at home, such as making their own coffee, showering, dressing, etc. The patient will

also be working on scar mobilization and strengthening as they progress.

In the seventh through 12th weeks, the patient should have a wide range of motion and will continue with scar mobilization and strengthening as needed.

Linda Barnes is the owner/president, occupational therapist, Therapy on Wheels, Inc. Therapy On Wheels physical therapists can help you recover from your knee replacement in the comfort of your own home as an outpatient. Contact the office at 317 332-9861 for information or visit therapyonwheelsinc.com.

Get local help with your Medicare questions.

I’m Cheryl Wade, a licensed sales agent in the Central Indiana area. When it comes to Medicare, it’s important to consider all of your options. What works well for your neighbor may not be the best fit for you. I know the ins and outs of Medicare, and I’m ready to answer your questions and help you find a plan that fits your needs. Take advantage of my knowledge and experience to: • Take the confusion out of Medicare

• Receive one-on-one service

• Get help comparing plans

• Make enrolling in a plan easier

I look forward to helping you explore your Medicare options so you can enroll in a plan with confidence.

It’s time to take advantage.

Cheryl Wade

Licensed Sales Agent

810-240-2332, TTY 711 cheryl.wade2@gmail.com www.MyUHCagent.com/cheryl.wade Plans are insured through UnitedHealthcare Insurance Company or one of its affiliated companies, a Medicare Advantage organization with a Medicare contract.

Enrollment in the plan depends on the plan’s contract renewal with Medicare. ©2020 United HealthCare Services, Inc. All rights reserved.

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55 AND BETTER Winter 2022

5

Prime Life Follies founder finds joy in dancing, writing

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

M

L

ori Mansell realized a lifelong dream when her first book was released.

“I always say the best is yet to come, and I truly believe that,” Mansell said. “I’m going to be publishing another book before I’m 100, I hope.”

Mansell’s book about her life, “Dare to Live: Finding Joy at Any Age,” was published in November.

Mansell, 93, lived in Carmel for 16 years before moving to The Reserve in Fishers four years ago with her husband, Ed Solinski. Her previous husband, Jack Mansell, died in 2015.

Mansell worked on the book for 1 1/2 years.

“I retired at age 70, and that’s when a new life began,” Mansell said. “I’ve had more adventures since then.”

Mansell was a math teacher in the San Diego area before retiring.

“The book is mom’s life story from age 70 and starts when my brother died and how she danced her way back to life through grace,” said Julie Osborne, Mansell’s daughter.

Mansell said she was depressed when her son, who suffered from multiple sclerosis, died.

But learning to tap dance helped her find solace.

“There is a chapter how she found her current husband on Match.com,” Osborne said.

“There are a lot of funny stories. She made it to the ‘America’s Got Talent’ audition in Kentucky and got through to the next step in California.

We had our tickets booked in March 2020 and COVID-19 hit.”

One of the chapters is how Mansell and Solinski won “The Newlywed Game” on a cruise at age 88.

Mansell founded the Prime Life Follies dance group in 2003.

“We had as many as 15 entertainers at one time and went out to nursing homes and any place that wanted us to put on a show,” Mansell said. “I learned to tap dance when I was about 70 and I’ve been dancing ever since. We are waiting for the pandemic to die down and go back to these facilities.”

Mansell said the group is down to seven members.

“It put so much fun in my life,” Mansell said.

“It opened up a whole new world of activities.”

Mansell said she didn’t start writing until she was 87.

“I went to a writing conference, and I always wanted to write stories when I was a little girl,” she said. “But I had seven children. I now have

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55 AND BETTER Winter 2022

How to get the most out of your Medicare

Lori Mansell performs as Frosty the Snowman for Prime Life Follies. (Photo courtesy of Julie Osborne)

22 grandchildren and I never got around to it.”

Mansell was busy working and then busy with Prime Life Follies and other volunteer activities.

Mansell was crowned queen at the writing conference, which was called the Erma Bombeck Writers Workshop, in Dayton, Ohio in 2016.

“I promised the 300 people that I would come back as an author and I was so excited when I got home,” Mansell said.

Mansell had a Royal typewriter, but she said Osborne took it away and made her learn to use a computer.

Mansell has twice had stories published in “Chicken Soup for the Soul.”

In March 2021, Mansell said she suffered life-threatening injuries when a heavy wind swept her off her feet and she was slammed to the ground. She suffered internal bleeding and broke her pelvis in two places “I’ve been trying to inspire people not only with my book but coming back from this accident,” Mansell said. “I like to help others do the same if they have any goal like that.”

For more, visit DancingGrammie.com. To contact Mansell, email DancingGrammieLori@ gmail.com.

Commentary by Mandi Baker

any Americans have recently enrolled or changed Medicare health plans effective Jan. 1. Understanding your Medicare benefits and how to make the most of your Medicare could have a significant financial impact.

Understanding the difference between Original Medicare (Part A and Part B) and Medicare Advantage Plans (Part C) and their benefits can eliminate confusion and frustration. Original Medicare offers coverage for medically necessary services with deductibles, co-pays and co-insurance. Under Original Medicare, there are no networks. You can use any health care provider who accepts Medicare.

One thing to keep in mind, there is no coverage for prescription drugs, however, you can enroll in a standalone Part D plan with Original Medicare.

Medicare Advantage Plans, also known as Part C, are offered by private insurance companies providing an “all in one,” alternative to Original Medicare. These plans include Part A, Part B and usually Part D, and will typically provide additional benefits that Original Medicare does not, such as dental, vision, hearing and more. One thing to keep in mind with Medicare Advantage Plans is the provider networks. To receive benefits for your care, you will need to stay within your provider network.

Utilize preventative care and vaccines benefits Preventative care helps keep us healthy by identifying health issues before they become problems. Both Original Medicare and Medicare Advantage Plans cover health screenings such as mammograms, prostate cancer screenings and much more. Many vaccines are covered such as the flu, pneumococcal and COVID-19.

Verify your plan benefits for a complete list of covered services.

Understand your Prescription Drug Coverage options Original Medicare does not typically provide coverage for prescription drugs unless they are Part B medications. Individuals with Original Medicare should consider purchasing a standalone Prescription Drug plan, Part D, to provide coverage and cost savings for prescribed medications. Medicare Advantage plans often have Part D benefits included. To maximize cost savings with your prescription drug plan, be sure to use your plan’s preferred pharmacies or mail order pharmacy. Ask your doctor about alternative medications that may be a generic or lower tiered (lower cost) medication on your plan’s formulary. Other ways to reduce prescription drug cost is to consider the pharmacy’s cash retail price or compare cost with one of the many prescription discount programs.

Use an agent.

Getting help from people you trust, learning about your Medicare coverage choices and comparing different plans can help you understand all the options available to you. To better understand your coverage, contact your local trusted agent to review your benefits and go over any extra features the plan may offer.

Mandi Baker is the Director of Meridian-Penn Marketing Group.

She works with independent agents and agencies, including Shepherd Insurance, in furthering their Medicare insurance careers.

Aging on your terms Commentary by Carol Applegate

A

ging on your terms. It’s something we all hope to do. But an unexpected fall, illness or injury can change our mobility and lives quickly.

That’s why it’s important to put long-term care plans in place before you need them. Most of us will need assistance at some point in our lives with things like getting dressed, driving to appointments or making meals. Without proper planning, care often falls on family members and friends. These often-unpaid caregivers provide an estimated 80 percent of all at-home long-term care in America, according to the Administration for Community Living (ACL).

Where to Start As you hit middle-age, you should start asking yourself some key questions to help you formulate a longterm care plan: • What kind of care would I want if I am injured or sick? Do I want to be at home or in a nursing facility? Who will take care of me?

• What types of long-term care (if any) does my current insurance cover?

• What options do I have to pay for the care?

• Should I purchase long-term care insurance? How much would it be?

• What legal documents do I need to get in case I can’t take care of myself?

• Who will I share my long-term care plans with?

Once you’ve asked yourself these questions, it’s time to act. Doing so now will help you and your family feel prepared in the case of a future crisis.

Aging on your terms requires action The odds are good that you will need long-term care in the future.

Studies show there is a nearly 70

percent chance that someone turning 65 today will need some type of longterm care service in their lifetime. The average length of that care is three years, which could quickly deplete your savings.

Once you’ve made decisions about what kind of care you might want, it’s time to start preparing legally and figuring out how you would pay for care.

The best way to do that is to schedule meetings with your attorney and your financial planner. You’ll want to ensure your plans are in writing so that your loved ones can easily implement them if you aren’t able to yourself.

One sure way to age on your terms is to learn more about Life Care Planning. This holistic approach involves a team that works with clients as they age to help them deal with legal, financial, medical, and emotional issues involved in growing older. The Life Care team works with the client as health and financial conditions change to evolve their long-term care plans. The Life Care Planning team takes the burden off your family – and you!

The bottom line is that aging on your terms requires advance planning. Contact Applegate & Dillman Elder Law or another qualified attorney today to find out more about creating a long-term care plan. Also, don’t forget to make an appointment with your financial advisor to figure out how to pay for the eventual implementation of your plan.

MEDICARE CAN FEEL A LOT LIKE A PUZZLE. Luckily, our team of agents have experience helping our clients put the pieces of that puzzle together.

Contact us today for a complimentary review.

317.343.3215 or medicare@shepherdins.com

Carol Applegate is an attorney at Applegate & Dillman Elder Law. The firm specializes in elder law and Life Care Planning, a holistic approach to deal with legal, financial, medical and emotional issues involved in growing older. The firm has offices in Indianapolis, Carmel and Zionsville. Find out more at applegate-dillman.com.

That’s why it’s important to put long-term care plans in place before you need them. Most of us will need assistance at some point in our lives with things like getting dressed, driving to appointments or making meals. Without proper planning, care often falls on family members and friends.

Disclaimer: Not affiliated with the U.S. government or federal Medicare program.

55 AND BETTER Winter 2022

7

ADVERTORIAL

EXPERTS CHANGE RECOMMENDATION FOR DAILY ASPIRIN

F

ebruary is American Heart Month, a reminder to make sure people are taking good care of their heart health. Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in the United States. While Dr. Hugo Rios Meza there are many preventative measures for those with increased risk, one method is to take aspirin in low doses, 75 to 100 milligrams, daily. Studies have consistently shown that regular aspirin decreases the risk of heart attacks and stroke. However, the U.S Preventative Services Task Force (USPSTF) has issued a new draft recommendation statement on aspirin use. Dr. Hugo Rios Meza, Cardiologist at IU Health Saxony Hospital, addresses questions on the subject.

What is the new recommendation?

For those at risk of a cardiac event, the new recommendation is based on two factors: health and age. For those over 60 years of age who do not have a medical condition, The U.S. Preventative Services Task Force no longer recommends taking an aspirin daily as a preventative measure.

Those between the ages of 50 and 60 should have a conversation with their doctor on how to proceed. Those between the ages of 40 and 50 can still take daily low doses of aspirin if preventative benefits outweigh bleeding risk. However, there are always exceptions to the rules. When in doubt, consult your cardiologist. There are other preventative measures that may be available and more affective.

Why did the recommendation change?

Low doses of aspirin can prevent the formation of microscopic blood clots that are most of the time responsible for impeding blood flow to the brain or the heart in small blood vessels. However, after further study, the daily consumption of aspirin can put those with certain health conditions at risk of bleeding. This would not be a nosebleed, but serious internal bleeding. The risk of bleeding in the stomach, intestines and brain can be fatal, and it increases with age.

Are there still benefits for taking daily aspirin?

For certain people, there are still benefits to taking

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55 AND BETTER Winter 2022

daily aspirin. For individuals who are at high risk for having heart attack or stroke, aspirin use continues to be recommended. On the other end of the spectrum, those who have bleeding disorders should not take it. No one should assume they should start taking aspirin based on their age or risk level. Other factors play into that decision.

What should those who are no longer recommended to take aspirin daily do if they already take it?

Do not stop taking aspirin until you speak with your cardiologist. Depending on the patient’s health, suddenly quitting aspirin after taking it for an extended period can also cause other health risks. Doctors can give patient-specific recommendations on a case-by-case basis.

Is it OK to continue taking aspirin occasionally for headaches?

A lot of people take aspirin or products that contain aspirin for headaches and other minor ailments. Those who do this should let their doctor know they are taking it occasionally. Aspirin may interfere with other medications, and there also may be better treatments.

What about those who have not started daily aspirin yet, but plan to?

Check with your doctor before starting aspirin.

Some people may believe they should begin taking it once they reach a certain age, but that it not the case. Like all medications, the risks and benefits of taking aspirin should be weighed carefully with a medical professional.

Get convenient access to Indiana’s top cardiologists.

If you’ve been told you’re at risk for heart disease, don’t wait to see the highly skilled heart experts at IU Health. From everyday heart care to the most complex procedures, we offer leading-edge medicine that’s personalized for you, so you can take control of your health.

Chosen by more patients for heart care than anywhere else in Indiana.

“Besides my love of fishing, I’ve inherited heart disease from my father and grandfather.

How do I keep it under control?”

Call 317.962.0500 to book your consult today.

©2022 IUHealth 55 AND BETTER

Winter 2022

9

MAKING

of

MUSIC Petersen, Lee cross generations to form singing duo

Elizabeth Lee, left, and Terri Petersen have released two songs. (Photo courtesy of Elizabeth Lee)

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

T

erri Lynn Petersen met Elizabeth Lee when Lee sold her a guitar. They soon became friends and found they could make beautiful music together.

“I got bored during the pandemic. I was writing stories and books. I decided I was going to write music,” Petersen said. “I didn’t know how much I loved music. This is a brand-new thing for me.”

Petersen and Lee, both Carmel residents, released their first song, “The Beep Beep Song,” Nov. 9, 2021, on Lee’s 30th birthday.

The second song, “The Bravest Hearts,” was re-

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55 AND BETTER Winter 2022

leased Jan. 7 on Petersen’s 66th birthday. The song, from Terri Lynn Productions, is about Petersen’s journey as a two-time breast cancer survivor.

“It was such a blessing to have breast cancer because I learned so much from other people, the challenges,” Petersen said. “I’ll never forgot the first time I went to get an MRI, there was a woman there with her son in her 20s and grandson who was 4, and they were there for an MRI on his brain cancer. I thought, ‘I have nothing compared to what they have.’ The people I met and the joy we had when we all got together in the waiting rooms, we were laughing and praying with each other.

“I met the most amazing people who made me, I hope, a better person.”

Petersen is legally blind, having lost most of her sight when she was 31. She was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2006 and again in May 2016 and had a mastectomy. Her husband, Garry, died of sudden heart failure at age 64 in September 2016. She had breast reconstructive surgery 11 days after Garry died.

“He was my seeing-eye husband for years,” Petersen said.

Peterson wrote a book about her guide dog when she lived in the Carmel Arts & Design business district. She now lives in a Carmel apartment on the first floor where she can get transportation more easily.

Continued on Page 13

Expert Foot Care For You and Your Family Treating Children and Adults

Terri Petersen, left, and Elizabeth Lee rehearse their songs in Petersen’s apartment. (Photo by Mark Ambrogi)

Continued from Page 12 “(The guide dog) made me brave to do things by myself, and now I can do it without her,” said Petersen, who no longer has the dog.

On their song tracks, Lee plays guitar first. Then Petersen sing, and Lee’s singing voice is added on the track on a computer.

“Once we did the first one, the second time is so much easier,” Petersen said of the process of copywriting and releasing the song. “It was easier than we thought it would be.”

Petersen has written music and lyrics for at least 30 songs.

“I got my first iPhone a year and a half ago because I wanted one for church,” Petersen said. “I started recording tunes I had in my head. I was humming tunes into my phone. Then I sit down and come up with words. I don’t know music to write down, what notes (they are) because I can’t see my words to know what I’m singing, so I record it.”

Petersen said she thoroughly enjoys writing music.

“Who would think when you are 65, you would say, ‘I want to start writing music?’” Petersen said. “I guess it is

really true that we are never too old to do anything for the first time. I had been writing poetry. I just kept coming up with thoughts in my head and it came all together.”

Petersen said her songs are about her life and people who have inspire her.

“I love to talk about angels’ wings in my songs,” she said. “I always try to think about hope instead of despair.”

Petersen has been teaching herself mandolin and guitar.

She has written 12 children’s books and a book about breast cancer.

Lee also performs with her father, who plays guitar and sings.

“We do a lot of singer-songwriters, covers of ‘60s songs,” she said. “I’m also trying to do some modern stuff, like Post Malone.”

Lee started playing the guitar at age 9 and has been singing with her dad, Bobby, as The Elizabeth Lee Band. Her dad harmonizes with her and also plays guitar and keyboard.

Lee said she also plays ukulele and banjo.

The songs are available on Spotify, Apple Music and all streaming platforms.

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Romine loves role as divorce mediator

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55 AND BETTER Winter 2022

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

I

f Carol Romine wrote a book about wage, she decided to go to law school and work to increase the miniher life, she said it would be called mum wage.

“Starting Over,” because “I realized I didn’t want she tends to reinvent herself to be a politician and it was each decade. something I wasn’t going to “I was a stay-at-home mom accomplish on her own,” said and then got divorced,” Romine, who graduated from Romine said. “I had a great Indiana University School of divorce. My ex-husband was Law in 1995. “As a Buddhist, still my friend until he died a Romine you want to be a service to year or so ago. My two sons people. So, I decided I wanted to give who got divorced had the same kind people divorces like I had. When I got of divorce, I never lost a daughter-inout of law school, I became a divorce law. When my daughter got divorced, lawyer. I was with (attorney) Steve Holt I didn’t lose a son-in-law.” in Noblesville for 17-some years. He let That eventually led the 80-year-old me practice divorce law the way I wantNoblesville resident to what she has ed to, which was primarily to negotiate. been doing the past several years — “As soon as you get two lawyers on working as a divorce mediator. a case, it’s very adversarial because “The universe just brings me the they have a legal duty to zealously right people who already decided represent their one client.” they didn’t want to go to court and Romine said as a mediator, she has spend the kids’ college money on two a legal duty to help clients reach a fair lawyers,” Romine said and equitable agreement that is conBut before she found her niche in divorce mediation, Romine had other sistent with Indiana law.

Romine started her company, Indicareers.

She started college at IUPUI at age 30. ana Divorce Mediation, in 2013.

“It’s not appropriate for everybody.

“They let me (enroll) on probation If there has ever been abuse between because I wasn’t a good high school the parties, I won’t take the case,” student,” she said. “They let me take Romine said. “It’s not appropriate for two classes and I got two Bs. I was so people that don’t trust each other. Or excited. Between that and the next if either person has a personality disorsemester, I learned how to practice der, the other person needs a lawyer.” transcendental meditation. I also beWhen the COVID-19 pandemic came a Buddhist. After I learned how started in March 2020, Romine – who to meditate, I became an A student. had worked in an office Fishers — It was the biggest shock of my life to started offering her services at home find out I was smart. I did not know through Zoom meetings. Her practice because girls in the ‘50s weren’t enincreased because her hours did. couraged to go to college. We were “It also expanded my business to encouraged to become moms.” all 92 counties in Indiana,” she said.

Romine’s first job was as a server at “It’s rewarding to me. I feel like I’m a Chi-Chi’s restaurant in Greenwood. giving something to the universe to “I saw somebody doing the job I these particular couples. They are not wanted, which was general manager going to have an ugly divorce.” of Chi-Chi’s restaurant, and he was Lesley Neeley, Romine’s daughter, just having so much fun,” Romine is proud of her mother. said. “So, I went after it. I became “My entire life I have watched my bar manager and kitchen manager. In mother grow and strive to always do five years, I was general manager of better,” Neeley said. “Every decade a (successful) Chi-Chi’s with 100 emshe has created a new career or taken ployees (in Kokomo).

“I did that for 10 years and loved it.” a leap of faith to grow.”

For more, visit familylawfishersindiObserving that many of her restauana.com. rant workers weren’t making a living

Labors of love

By Rick Morwick rick@youarecurrent.com

A

dra Wheeler got her first job straight of college and worked it for 35 years before

retiring.

But retirement didn’t last long.

Almost immediately after retiring from the Indiana Bell Telephone Co., Wheeler was hired by St. Luke’s United Methodist Church in Indianapolis, where she attended services and had been a volunteer. She worked there until retiring in 2020.

Had it not been for the COVID-19 pandemic, the 81-year-old Marquette resident might never have retired.

That’s how much she enjoyed – or rather, enjoys — working.

“Loved it,” she said of her two jobs.

“Loved it, loved it, loved it. Never absent one day, not one, at any of those jobs. You just wanted to be there and help.”

Although her employment status has changed, Wheeler’s enthusiasm for work hasn’t. One of Marquette’s newest residents, she is arguably the Indianapolis senior living community’s busiest.

Wheeler moved in five weeks ago and has been on the go ever since.

She not only participates in myriad activities with residents but also volunteers to assist them and staff in any way she can.

“I’m brand new but love it,” Wheeler said. “I’ve been trying to go to all kinds of different things. I think you can just work 24/7. There are so many wonderful things going on here. I’ve just gone to different groups and said, ‘If you need any help, holler. I’m doing nothing.’ I’m used to working 24/7.

“If (prospective residents) are here, I’m glad to answer questions or take them on tours. We’ve had a lot of people apply (to live) here.”

A lifelong Indianapolis resident, Wheeler was part of North Central High School’s first graduating class in 1958 (“That’s my claim to fame,” she said) and graduated from Ball State University in 1962 with a business degree. She was hired by Indiana Bell almost immediately and loved virtually every minute of her 35 years with the company.

“All my jobs there were superviso-

A lifelong Indianapolis resident, Adra Wheeler moved into the Marquette senior living community five weeks ago and has been on the go ever since. (Photo courtesy of Marquette)

ry,” Wheeler said. “They used to hire college graduates for easy jobs, and then we got promoted or they got rid of you, and so I had 35 years of all kinds of (different roles). Every year I had a new assignment.”

After retiring from Indiana Bell, she was hired by St. Luke’s in Indianapolis, where she still attends services. Her responsibilities ran the gamut.

“I did every single thing except preach, and there was no way I could do that,” she said, laughing. “At church, you do everything. I spent lots of time with hospitals and people dying, all kinds of problems. (St. Luke’s is) a wonderful, wonderful place, and we are huge. Lots of good goes on.”

Wheeler, who was divorced many years ago (she calls it “the only negative” experience in her life), moved into her apartment at Marquette five weeks ago after having been on the waiting list for several years. She instantly made friends.

“She is a social butterfly,” said Sara Green, Marquette’s sales councilor.

“Lots and lots of people know Adra.”

Wheeler has one daughter, Amy Roetgerman, who lives in Carmel, and one grandson, who attends Carmel High School.

“I’m lucky,” Wheeler said. “I’m a lucky girl.”

It is time to take care of me Commentary by Tom Weesner

D

ecember and another great Christmas! A train engine from my parents and a train car from my grandparents. A simple gift with a big smile, a Coke and chocolates on the TV table. I long for the simplicity of those days …

Spring and another great birthday! A ball glove, a bat and playing catch with my dad and grandpa. I long for the simplicity of those days …

Summer break and freedom to play!

Playing baseball in our court with neighborhood friends by day and at night, kick the can and flashlight tag. I long for the simplicity of those days … when staying fit was child’s play.

Why at this time of year am I focusing on these memories? They remind me of comfortable and healthy times – safe times when the world was taken care of by adults, and I was free to play, explore and run. Meals were on the table, friends were close and caring relatives and neighbors nearby. As I grew older, my parents were there for me when it was hard to move on. Good times, good memories. Now? I want to be there for

my adult children and my grandchildren.

So, it is time to take care of me. Not just for me, but for those who need or will need me in their lives. To others, this may seem easy. To me, it is overwhelming. As a kid, I didn’t have to think about exercising to stay healthy. I played baseball and ran around. Now, it is always on my mind. Despite the endless “shoulda, coulda, woulda,” mantras, getting started just makes sense.

Staying fit never gets old; it just gets more challenging. I’ll start with five minutes, and I bet, once I’m going, I’ll go a little more than that. I will find a friend to play catch with, walk up the street to one mailbox and add one each day, park a little further from the front door, or grab a friend and go to the gym. Playing and moving more will make the difference.

You can do this, too! Take the first step and find the right playground (gym) for you – fun, supportive and safe.

Tom Weesner is the president of Motion 4 Life Fitness.

Become a volunteer today Riverview Health is looking for volunteers to join its great team.

Some of the many volunteer service areas include patient transport, guest services and the gift shop. Shifts are available in the morning or afternoon, at least one day per week, Monday-Friday.

If you’re interested in volunteering at Riverview Health in Noblesville or Westfield, please contact the manager of Volunteer Services, Melinda Nash, at 317.776.7236 or mnash@riverview.org.

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History is made by the hopeful Commentary by David Morgan “The longer I live, the more I realize the impact of attitude on life. Life is 10 percent what happens to me and 90 percent how I react to it.”

Charles R. Swindoll

W

Limited Rooms Available

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Boutique memory care residence in Carmel Custom-designed with innovative safety features One dedicated caregiver per three residents

Story Cottage at Carey Road & 136th Street

Please call us for your complimentary assessment.

(317) 449-5696

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55 AND BETTER Winter 2022

ith that optimistic mindset top-of-mind, our Senior Home Companions team has been focusing on helping our clients and employees adopt a more hopeful attitude during these challenging times.

Our team has sought out examples of those who have made history through their hopefulness — individuals who by actively choosing joy and optimism have overcome great obstacles.

For instance, Walt Disney was a great inspiration for many. He believed the impossible was possible and that the way to get started is to “quit talking and begin doing.”

For more than a decade, central Indiana families have come to us with loved ones who are discouraged, despondent and not engaging well with life. By carefully selecting companion caregivers with similar interests, who are good listeners as well as great conversationalists, exude positivity and bring excitement and energy, we come alongside clients and help them to reengage with life. By taking action and doing “the impossible,” we are able to help those around us feel purpose and hope.

We all face things in our lives that seem impossible. Is there something in your life that you could use a little inspiration to get moving on?

Likewise, Margaret Thatcher had the ability to dream big. One of my biggest dreams was accomplished

as we launched Story Cottage Living, a unique memory care residence for those with dementia. After years of research and extensive conversations with family members of those with dementia, our team has been able to bring two Story Cottage residences to life. It brings me great joy to be able to provide a safe, home-like environment with a focus on intentional and highly engaged care for those with dementia and their families.

Author Bryan Stevenson (who wrote “Just Mercy”) advises that it is so important to keep hope alive for those around us — to be a conduit of hope.

He noted that you can’t understand the most important things from a distance. You have to get close to people who are important to you and spend time with them.

Do you have something that feels impossible to tackle this year? Are you feeling discouraged? Think about how you can surround yourself with those that can be a conduit of hope – to help you find purpose, engage with the world around you, tackle the impossible and dream big! Remember, history is made by the hopeful (to listen to this series and more about dementia care, visit the Senior Home Companions YouTube channel).

David Morgan is the president of Senior Home Companions and Story Cottage Living.

His background combines a passion for serving others and a love for delivering superlative service. Morgan graduated from the Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth College and has a graduate degree from Dallas Theological Seminary. For information about Story Cottage or Senior Home Companions, contact David at dmorgan@ shcindiana.com.

For more than a decade, central Indiana families have come to us with loved ones who are discouraged, despondent and not engaging well with life. By carefully selecting companion caregivers with similar interests, who are good listeners as well as great conversationalists, exude positivity and bring excitement and energy, we come alongside clients and help them to reengage with life. By taking action and doing “the impossible,” we are able to help those around us feel purpose and hope.

Ready for retirement?

Submitted by News and Experts

A

n intriguing find emerged from a RAND Corp. survey on Americans and their working conditions. It turned out that 40 percent of employees 65 and older had previously retired, but something lured them back to the working world.

In some cases, financial troubles might have been the cause. But often, the reason is that people neglect an important component in their retirement planning. They don’t think about what they will do with their extra time, or how they will give their life the meaning and purpose work provided, said Patti Hart, co-author with her husband, Milledge, of “The Resolutionist: Welcome to the Anti-Retirement Movement.” For more, visit antiretirement.com.

“Money is certainly important, but it’s not the only thing that determines whether your retirement is a success,” Patti said. “It may be that you are financially ready to retire but are a long way from being emotionally ready.”

The Harts offer tips for figuring out when to retire and for making sure you’re successful when you do: Know your catalysts Identify milestones or signs that will let you know you are ready to embark on a new post-work life, Milledge said.

Yes, that could be when you’ve accumulated a certain amount of savings.

But it might also be related to when your spouse quits their job, or when your children graduate college and head out on their own. Maybe your plan is to work until your health gives out.

“Knowing your catalysts can mean the difference between successfully transitioning to a fulfilled life after your career is over or boomeranging back to the full-time workforce simply because you didn’t know why you quit to begin with,” Milledge said.

Plan ahead to avoid separation anxiety from work For many people, moving from the excitement and fulfillment of a career to the quietness of retirement is too much, Patti said. They develop a form of “separation anxiety,” longing for their old way of life rather than venturing boldly into the new one.

“You need to make a plan for what you want to do in your new post-career

life, so you aren’t floundering when you get there,” she said.

Get comfortable with the uncomfortable At work, people are thrown into uncomfortable situations and have no choice but to face them head on. In retirement, it’s easier to avoid discomfort, but doing so diminishes your confidence, and you miss out on opportunities for personal growth and fun, Milledge said.

“It would seem counterintuitive to think that being uncomfortable brings happiness, but it does,” he said. “Go at life as if it’s an adventure – because it is. When you accomplish something you didn’t think you could, you get a jolt of endorphins that drives you to your next challenge.”

Learn to be your own best friend Even when people want to try a new hobby or activity, they sometimes are afraid to do it alone.

“In retirement, you might not have the social network you once did,” Patti said. “You may long for a good friend you can rely on.” But if you think about it, she said, you already have that friend – yourself. So, as you prepare for retirement, be ready to go solo on occasion. “When you get to this stage, you will often find that some things on your list are on your list alone,” she said. “No one in your universe shares your interest or has the time to join you. That’s all right. If you are going to continue to grow, you need to sometimes feel like you did something completely on your own.”

“Don’t convince yourself that in

retirement you are going to be destined to a life of watching evening game shows and baking pies, unless of course that is what you love to do,” Milledge said. “My advice is, nothing is off limits, so reach for the stars. Look forward rather than backward and embrace the new you.”

Affordable Senior Living in Fishers

Services & Amenities: Lake Meadows Senior Assisted Living welcomes you to an elegant living experience that is both compassionate and affordable. Meet our friendly and knowledgeable staff who serve our residents with a personal connection, comfort, and care.

Call Us: (317) 520-8503 11570 E 126th Street Fishers, Indiana 46037 lakemeadowsal.com

Assistance with Daily Activities 3 nutritious & delicious meals daily, plus snacks Social events, activities, and outings Laundry and housekeeping services Outside patio and seating areas Lovely dining room with restaurant-style dining On-site beauty salon Fishing lake and walking paths On-site physician and therapy

55 AND BETTER Winter 2022

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MARK DRAPER, KNEE PATIENT

STRONGER THAN BEFORE

For Mark, staying active is a way of life. A quadriceps tendon rupture repair allowed him to get back to weight training and playing pickleball, pain-free.

Don't let orthopedic pain stand in the way of what matters most. Learn more at forteortho.com or call us at 317.817.1200.

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