55 and Better — January 26, 2021

Issue 5 | WINTER 2020

RELIVING

HISTORY

Ancestor’s Civil War relics spur Carmel resident’s interest

Get convenient access to Indiana’s top cardiologists.

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55 AND BETTER Winter 2021

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the Benefits of meeting with an

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If you or a loved one is ready to take a step toward planning for the future, call Applegate & Dillman Elder Law. Our team of professionals help navigate the medical, legal and financial challenges of growing older.

Offices in Indianapolis, Zionsville and Carmel | 317.492.9569 | www. Applegate-Dillman.com 55 AND BETTER Winter 2021

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

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Disclaimer: Not affiliated with the U.S. government or federal Medicare program. A licensed agent may contact you regarding this insurance-related information.

CMS Code: B01152102

4

55 AND BETTER Winter 2021

Nonprofit offers programs, resources to Parkinson’s patients

By Rick Morwick rick@youarecurrent.com

E

ach year, more than 60,000 people in the U.S. are diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease.

And each year, the Indiana Parkinson Foundation provides support and resources for Hoosiers who suffer from the debilitating neurological disorder.

Addie Cunningham, who founded the IPF in 2009, encourages anyone who is impacted by the incurable disease — be it a patient, family member or caregiver — to reach out to the Noblesville-headquartered nonprofit.

The IPF offers a range of services and resources, including the innovative CLIMB program, which focuses on functional physical exercises and activities to reeducate muscles that are affected by the disease.

“The CLIMB was built on a combination of physical therapy, aerobic exercise and boxing,” Cunningham said. “The program has grown to now offer big movement postural therapy and balance, yoga, Egoscue (therapy), speech therapy and weight training.

Not only does CLIMB offer many services led by experienced trainers, it is also a safe haven of support and encouragement for people with Parkinson’s and their families.

“People are being changed at the CLIMB, mentally, physically and spiritually.”

But CLIMB isn’t the only resource available through the IPF, whose mission is to improve the daily lives of Parkinson’s patients. The average age of onset is 60, according to The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine.

“Outside of our CLIMB program, we also offer support groups, educational events and resources,” Cunningham said. “Our support groups are available to caregivers, people with Parkinson’s and other family members. During these groups, we have speakers come in and talk on different Parkinson’s resources or help answer questions about the disease.

We also allow for open-forum time at our meetings so people can discuss and learn from one another.

“Educational events happen about four times a year and provide lots of

Addie Cunningham is the founder and program director for the Indiana Parkinson Foundation. The nonprofit is based in Noblesville. (Submitted photo)

great resources for families and people with Parkinson’s disease.”

In April, which is Parkinson’s Disease Awareness Month, the IPF is conducting its annual Choose to Move: Race to Beat Parkinson’s run/ walk fundraiser, which includes a live race at Witten Park in Fishers on April 17 and a virtual option for anyone who can’t participate in the live event.

All proceeds benefit IPF programs and services, including the CLIMB, which is offered in Carmel, Noblesville, Indianapolis and nine other communities across the state.

“If you know someone who has been diagnosed with Parkinson’s and is looking for a community to come alongside them to provide resources and programs to help them in their Parkinson’s journey, contact the Indiana Parkinson Foundation today,” said Cunningham, adding that the organization also welcomes volunteers and financial donors.

“If you feel led to make a donation towards the mission and the heart of IPF, you can make a donation at our website,” Cunningham said.

Globally, someone is diagnosed with Parkinson’s every nine seconds, and approximately 10 million people are living with the disease, including approximately 16,00 Hoosiers. The disease is the second-most common age-related neurodegenerative disorder after Alzheimer’s disease, according to the national Parkinson’s Foundation.

For more on the IPF, visit indianaparkinson.org.

Summer Legs Are Made In The Winter®

For spring gardens, order seeds now

By Anna Skinner anna@youarecurrent.com

U

rban Farmer owner Noah Herron said amid the COVID-19 pandemic, seed sales on his online site soared in 2020. He’s already seeing similar trends this year.

“Right now, starting the beginning of January is kind of when garden seed orders come in and people sit down with catalogs and start to plan out their garden and decide what they want,” said Herron, Herron a Westfield resident.

“When everything happened with COVID, seed sales online began skyrocketing and there was a long delay to get seeds.”

Herron said because of the increased traffic, at one point last year Urban Farmer fell behind one month on shipping.

“That was the same with pretty much all other seed companies, so starting off this year we are already starting to see a delay on shipping, so I definitely recommend that if you’re planning a garden this spring to put your orders in very soon,” Herron said.

Herron said cool-season crops like

broccoli and cauliflower can be started indoors in February and placed outside in March. He said to plant warmer season plants like tomatoes and peppers inside in March.

Gardeners don’t need grow lights or a greenhouse to start their growing season early. Herron said most people use either an electric blanket or heating pad below seed-starter trays until the plants germinate, and if those aren’t available, Herron recommends a place available in most kitchens.

“If you don’t have any of those, on top of the refrigerator is a warmer spot to start seeds,” Herron said.

“Plant the seeds in a grow medium inside and keep the soil somewhat moist and put them on top of the refrigerator, and once they start to have germination, you can move them to a sunny location.”

Windows are a great option for light, Herron said, but during the winter, they allow the soil to get cold, which can be harmful to the plants.

“If you’re going to do that, it’s best to bring them away from the window at nighttime and put them back on top of the fridge,” he said.

For more, visit ufseeds.com.

Jeffery P. Schoonover, MD Joseph E. Spahr, MD Ryan Pilkey, FNP-BC Katelyn Hooker, FNP-C Sara Salinas, PT, CLT-LANA

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55 AND BETTER Winter 2021

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Seniors, is it the time to move?

Commentary by Alan Symons

A

s the COVID-19 vaccine is being rolled out to senior communities, now is the time to upgrade your life and stop the stress. Too many issues are going to pop up due to the fallout of the pandemic, from financial stress, to health care and political problems.

Now is the time to consider how to be happy and enjoy stress-free living. Many people are wondering, “Are senior living communities, including assisted living and independent living, safe?” Now that the vaccine is rolled out in most of the senior communities, the answer is a great big yes. The communities that have been vaccinated are the safest and most fulfilling places for an older adult to live. While moving into assisted or independent living during a pandemic could be perceived as a challenging decision, we believe now may be the smartest time to make that move.

If in doubt that you should move, just think about the lonely isolation winter will bring. Older adults have become more isolated as a result of precautions to prevent the spread of COVID-19, with activities canceled, unease about being in public settings and favorite places closed. Senior living communities have invested in activities with opportunities for indoor exercise, gourmet dining, fitness, lifelong learning,

indoor cinema and more, while doing so in a safe environment.

I have built senior independent living communities to the highest and safest standard and have learned a thing or two about how to make your life much more fulfilling and enjoyable — not to mention increase your longevity by as much as 43 percent.

Socialization: Communities are generally designed for people to get to know people of similar and different interests.

Wellness: Senior living communities offer a medical clinic on-site along with services like physical therapy, fitness centers and outdoor spaces to roam, garden, swim and take the dog for walks. Having health care and wellness services just for residents, fully integrated into the living community, with staff who take a whole-person approach to care, provides an extra layer of protection and reassurance for a much fuller and healthy life.

Financial knowledge that you are looked after forever: Today, with economic trouble from COVID-19 and uncertainty of the future, it is a good time to sell your home and put the money into an income-safe producing fund. The real estate market is hot in most areas of the country, and now is a good time to realize and lock in that value before something knocks it down. Use the cash from the home sale, income from investments, plus social security, plus other retirement funds, to pay a single monthly fee for a luxurious suite with a kitchen, living room, bedroom, large bath and walk-in closets. Or choose a two-bedroom suite. Stop worrying about being alone at home and facing a break in, roof leaks, shoveling a driveway, fixing a broken pipe. No more cable bills, no more tax bills, no more cooking and cleaning. Let the chef, chauffeur, activities director and housekeeper take over. No more exposure to the unknown.

Continued on Page 7

Senior living communities have invested in activities with opportunities for indoor exercise, gourmet dining, fitness, lifelong learning, indoor cinema and more, while doing so in a safe environment.

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55 AND BETTER Winter 2021

Continued from Page 6 Security and diet: With 24-hour staff seven days a week to look after you, the fear of trip and fall, or illness while all alone, is gone. Every person has an emergency button to the front desk. The building is designed to avoid injury. The chef is there to help you maintain a healthy homecooked diet and will follow any dietary needs or desires you may have. Farm-totable is practiced in good communities.

You want to know the four things to live up to 43 percent longer, don’t you?

Well, here they are.

Reduced stress, social interaction, diet and fitness, even if just walking or swimming. You get all these and more living in a senior community. While every community is different, look for these common threads: • Ask to see the various options for suites.

• Ask to visit with several people now living in the community.

• Take a tour of the facilities and focus on what matters for you.

• Stay for a meal, try out the food. Is it so-so or is it very good? You will want to know that up front as you will be dining there for a long time to come.

• Look for the hair/barber salon, the fitness center. Does it have what you like? If not, ask if it can be included.

• Does the community have a chauffeur/driver and car to take you within a 15-mile radius for free?

• Check out several communities within your budget.

• The cost for good communities will be about $3,000 to $4,500 for a suite with a nice bedroom, a decent sized living kitchen bath and good closet space and about $4,000 to $6,000 for large two-bedroom suite. This one monthly rent should Include everything you need like gourmet meals, with a bistro for extra food when you want it, free TV, free driver, etc.

• Are the owner’s good operators?

Just look at the search site for a rating above 4 out of 5.

• After your tour, ask yourself: Does it feel good to live there?

Alan Symons owns senior communities, including Sycamore Reserve Senior Living in Indianapolis.

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, you have the flexibility and control over everything you do.

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

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

8140 Township Line Road • Indianapolis, IN 46260 • www.marquetteseniorliving.org

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

55 AND BETTER Winter 2021

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The Lodge: Meet Jean Sobek

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

J

ean Sobek was predicted to be the first female U.S. vice president by her senior class in high school.

“But someone beat me to it,” she said with a laugh.

Kamala Harris was recently sworn in as the nation’s first female Vice President.

Sobek, 96, has lived in Harbour Manor & The Lodge in Noblesville for 14 years.

“I like bingo and I like any kind of conversation,” Sobek said.

Those conversations have been tougher due to social distancing during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The virus has shut down most of that,” she said. “I never dreamed we’d have a worldwide pandemic, but it happened.”

The Lodge Life Enrichment Director Stacey Butterfield said Sobek has been a resident since The Lodge opened.

“She is soft-spoken, lovely, kind, witty, fun and very gentle and inviting with everyone, especially when we have new members join us,” Butterfield said. “Jean is someone who connects people together. She enjoys including others and appreciates individuality. Differences will not cause dissension with Jean. She will find a way to bring us closer. It is the secret ingredient to holding us together in unprecedented times we are facing today.”

Jean Sobek

LIFE’S TOO SHORT LOVE WHERE YOU LIVE!

Butterfield said Sobek faithfully attends morning exercise sessions.

“She has a beautiful voice, too,” Butterfield said.

“She’s an avid singer.”

Sobek said there were sing-alongs Saturday nights prior to the pandemic. But she still participates in service projects.

“We worked on a project to make masks,” said Sobek, part of a mask brigade who cuts fabric for the masks.

Sobek, who was born on a farm in Iowa, graduated from the University of Iowa. She majored in psychology and then worked in sales at IBM until she was married in 1949.

“They wouldn’t keep women who were married,” Sobek said. “We’ve come a long way.”

Sobek said she was active in the League of Women Voters.

She was living in Munster when she moved to The Lodge to be closer to her son, Joseph Jr., a Carmel resident.

Sobek’s husband, Joseph Sobek Sr., died in 2004.

He was a member of the U.S. Army Air Corps, flying 50 combat missions as a waist gunner on a B-17 in Europe during World War II. After the war, he played basketball at Notre Dame.

Sobek also has two daughters, Christine Sobek, president of Waubonsee Community College in Illinois, and Carol Hyde, who lives in Charlotte, N.C. She has seven grandchildren.

Sycamore

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Independent Senior Living

For a limited time, save $1500 on your first month’s rent and 10% per month for the next 12 months. You’ll also get to choose from a stackable washer/dryer, moving assistance or no community fee.

Month-to-Month Lease Gourmet Dining • 24-Hour On-Site Staff Weekly Housekeeping • Transportation Services Daily Check-In • Emergency Pendant Cable TV • High-Speed Internet (WiFi) Visit us online at SycamoreReserve.com or call (317) 516-5200 to learn more.

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55 AND BETTER

Winter 2021 SycamoreReserve-LoveWhereYouLive-TheCurrent_202101.indd 1

8275 CRAIG STREET INDIANAPOLIS, IN 46250 1/15/2021 1:53:58 PM

I'm walking again!

Pain-free!

Marie Russell, hammertoe patient

John Schmid

"Excruciating pain from the little toe on my left foot is what brought me in to see Dr. Sullivan. I was in such constant pain that I couldn't walk. After Dr. Sullivan performed a minor in-office procedure, I could walk again pain-free and help take my care of my grandson. Dr. Sullivan is a miracle worker!"

Schmid finds home at Encore

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

A

t 76, John Schmid is typically busier than most people his age.

Schmid is the director of music at Fairview Presbyterian Church in Indianapolis and chorus master of Indianapolis Opera. He has been with Indianapolis Opera for 37 years and at Fairview for 27 years.

Although Schmid stays busy, he was ready to ease his living situation. He moved from his condo when Encore 55+ Boutique Apartments, 6675 E. 75th St., opened in Indianapolis in August 2020.

“If something goes wrong, I don’t have to fix it,” he said. “It’s on one floor. I had steps before. I’m on the first floor and I’m not far from the entrance. It’s enough space for me.”

Schmid calls the decision to move to Encore 55+ Apartments the best he has ever made.

Schmid learned about Encore from his daughter, Jordan, who lives five minutes away.

“They’re very well kept, they have a good staff,” Schmid said. “It’s a pleasant, quiet atmosphere. They have different small events for the residents, although I’m probably much busier

than a lot of the residents. I’m in and out a lot more.”

Schmid said there is a workout room and plenty of room to walk.

“There is a lovely community room and movie room,” Schmid said. “It’s very quiet here. The maintenance is quite good. They are very attentive to things.”

Along with the fitness center, there are pickleball and bocce courts. There also is a dog park.

Encore concentrates on five areas it calls “High Five 55.” The five areas are Community & Connection, Fitness & Wellness, Learning & Hobbies, Diet & Nutrition and Happiness & Contentment.

Not surprisingly, Schmid is ready for the COVID-19 pandemic to end and musical performances to begin.

“I’m bored to death,” he said.

Schmid, a tenor who has two degrees in voice from Butler University, has performed in and conducted musicals in the past.

“I’ve done some musicals and conducted musicals,” he said.

Schmid has prepared the Indy Opera choruses for more than 100 productions of more than 60 operas.

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55 AND BETTER Winter 2021

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ADVERTORIAL

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT DIABETES AND YOUR HEART

By: Dr. Ali Iqtidar, cardiologist at IU Health North and Saxony Hospitals According to the American Heart Association, adults with diabetes are two to four times more likely to die from heart disease than adults without diabetes. With heart disease being the leading cause of death for men and women, it’s important to understand how diabetes can increase your risk for heart disease.

Effects on Heart Health While diabetes is treatable, a long-term effect of high blood sugar is damaged blood vessels and nerves that control your heart. Along with high blood sugar, diabetics are also more likely to have other conditions that increase their risk for heart disease such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, high triglycerides and obesity. Your primary care provider can perform a simple blood test to check your cholesterol and triglycerides.

Prevention and Treatment A healthy lifestyle is one of the best ways to prevent your risk of diabetes and heart disease. Exercise helps lower blood pressure, cholesterol and control your weight.

Try to aim for 30-minutes of exercise a day. To reduce your sugar and high-saturated fat consumption, make healthy swaps to add more veggies and complex grains into

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55 AND BETTER Winter 2021

your diet. Lower alcohol consumption to prevent fluctuations in your blood sugar levels. The U.S. Dietary Guidelines for American Adults suggest up to one standard drink for women and two drinks for men per day. One standard drink includes approximately 14 grams of pure alcohol, which is 12 ounces of regular beer, 5 ounces of wine or 1.5 ounces of distilled spirits.

Along with preventing your risk for diabetes and heart disease, an overall healthy lifestyle can also help treat and reduce the symptoms of diabetes and heart disease.

Make sure you’re eating a balanced diet of fruits, vegetables, protein and whole grains. Your primary care provider is the best person to talk to about treatment plans to get you healthy again.

Resources Learning more about diabetes and heart health will help you avoid health complications down the line. Consult with your primary care provider, cardiologist or diabetes care specialist to get the support and solutions you need to prevent or manage your health conditions.

To schedule a consultation with one of the highly skilled heart experts at IU Health, call 317.962.0500

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. ©2021 IUHealth 55 AND BETTER

Winter 2021

11

RELIVING S

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

HISTORY Ancestor’s Civil War relics spur Carmel resident’s interest

tan Hurt’s fascination with Civil War artifacts started innocently enough.

Hurt, who grew up in Indianapolis, would visit the home where his mother grew up in Ft. Wayne when he was a child.

“There was nothing for me to do,” the 82-year-old Carmel resident said.

‘The only thing interesting there was the storeroom, and it had Civil War relics, so that’s what I played with, the rifle and bayonet. It was the only thing that interested a 6-year-old.

“I’d immediately go there, get the rifle out and play with it. This went on for a number of years.”

The Civil War items belonged to a cousin, Leander Miner, who was a corporal in a Fort Wayne regiment for the Union Army. Miner died of yellow fever a week before the war ended.

“I inherited his rifle and sword when my aunt died,” Hurt said.

Hurt brought the relics to Indianapolis and put them on display in his bedroom.

“It was the first time I got into a display of artifacts,” Hurt said.

After a 15-year stint in the U.S. Navy and Naval Reserves, reaching the rank of lieutenant commander, he started a business. He eventually got a house in Indianapolis with a den and put the relics on display.

“I thought I would buy some uniforms and things to put around the guns to make it more of a collection,” Hurt said.

“We did a lot of entertaining, and people really enjoyed the Civil War room.”

Hurt attended a Civil War flea market at the Indiana State Fairgrounds in 2003 and met the commanding officer of Eli Lilly’s reenactment artillery battery.

“We get into a long conversation, and a month or two later he asked if I would like to go to Gettysburg,” Hurt said.

Passion leads to reenactments

So, Hurt said that was when he began participating in reenactments.

“Through the years, I started collecting more and more stuff besides being in the reenacting,” Hurt said.

Continued on Page 13 Stan Hurt shows his display of Civil War artifacts. (Photo by Mark Ambrogi) 55 AND BETTER

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Winter 2021

Continued from Page 12 As a reenactor, he started bonding with Miner.

“That grew as I was reenacting, so I wrote a story about him,” said Hurt, who was then retired from daily operations in the company he owned.

After participating for 15 years, Hunt retired from reenacting approximately three years ago.

“There gets to a point where you can’t put the tent up anymore,” he said.

Hurt started out as a Union lieutenant in Civil War reenacting.

“They made me an officer, so I became a staff officer,” he said. “I didn’t carry a rifle. As you live as a Civil War soldier, you do bond with that era and it keeps history alive. That is what reenacting is about, keeping history alive.

“It was a very interesting hobby for me for 17 years.”

On occasion, Hurt would portray a Confederate soldier.

“I have a Confederate uniform, but I don’t display it,” Hurt said. “The more I studied the Civil War and the whole era, I have a real distaste of the Confederates and I don’t want to ever wear their uniform again. Then what they did during Reconstruction and the Ku Klux Klan (was appalling).”

Hurt has read many books on the Civil War and the era.

“I love journals,” Hurt said. “The way to study the Civil War is to read journals of people that were really there.”

Hurt, an Indianapolis Shortridge High School graduate, sold his company, Indiana Supply, which supplied heating and air conditioning parts, in 2007. Hurt and his wife, Sandra, moved to Carmel in 2002.

He serves on the Carmel Symphony Orchestra and Songbook Foundation boards. He previously was on the Center for the Performing Arts board.

Hurt’s wife released a novel in August 2020 called “Priestess of Pompeii, The Intimate Journey.” She has been fascinated with the art and history of Pompeii for 30 years.

“Stan’s passion for the history of the Civil War and the people who lived in those times and my passion for the history of Greek and Roman societies are certainly linked at this moment,” Sandra said. “We can only hope that the lessons learned from generations past will be heeded by generations to come.”

ABOVE: Stan Hurt pauses with a cannon during a Civil War reenactment.

(Submitted photo) LEFT: Leander Miner (Submitted photo) BELOW: Hats and bugles are among Hurt’s artifacts (Photo by Mark Ambrogi)

55 AND BETTER Winter 2021

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Risk factors, prevention tips for common household falls Commentary by Patrick Broccolo

H

WHEN ONLY THE BEST WILL DO, THE BARRINGTON OF CARMEL. NOW OFFERING NEW PRICING. The Barrington of Carmel offers luxury senior living in an affluent urban setting. Choose convenience and amenities over the hassle and maintenance of owning a home, and enjoy the best the city has to offer right in your backyard. In addition, we are proud to provide an unparalleled continuum of care, offering as much, or as little assistance, as you may need, all under one roof.

The Barrington is excited to be offering new contract options that have enabled us to significantly lower entrance and monthly fees.

For more information, or to schedule a tour, call Steve Clossey at 317-810-1825 or email him at SClossey@thebarringtonofcarmel.com,

W W W.T H E B A R R I N G TO N O F C A R M E L . C O M 1 3 3 5 S . G U I L F O R D R OA D CARMEL, IN 46032 317-810-1800

ave you ever woken up in the middle of the night to get a drink of water? You don’t want to wake anyone, and it’s freezing outside of your covers, so you move quickly to the faucet. As you make your way into the bathroom, you struggle to find the light switch in the dark. As you make your next step, your foot catches the edge of the floor mat on the ground, you lose your balance and fall …

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website, each year millions of people, “those 65 and older fall. In fact, more than one out of four older people fall each year, but less than half tell their doctor. Falling once doubles your chances of falling again.” There are many risk factors that contribute to falls, but the good news is there are ways to lower your risk.

The following are three common risk factors we have seen over the years at Senior1Care, along with some prevention tips we have found helpful for families: • Use of medications that reduce mental alertness, worsen balance and gait, and cause changes in blood pressure. Prevention tips: Talk with your physician or pharmacist about the common side effects and the need for continued medication(s). Also, maintain an updated list of personal medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements.

• Lack of physical activity leads to poor muscle tone, decreased

strength, loss of bone mass and flexibility. Prevention tips: Engage regularly in activities designed to increase/maintain muscle and bone strength and to improve balance and flexibility. Wear proper fitting, supportive shoes with low heels or rubber soles.

• Environmental hazards in the home. The most common hazard for falls is tripping over objects on the floor, like loose throw rugs. Other factors include poor lighting, lack of or poorly located/mounted grab bars and unsteady furniture. Prevention Tips: Walk through your home and consider nonskid mats/carpets on slick floor surfaces, stable grab bars for support and adequate night lighting, particularly around stairwells, walkways and bathrooms. Instead of furniture, consider using stable assistive devices.

Falls do happen to the best of us, and it is important to note that not all falls can be prevented 100 percent of the time. Being aware of some of these risk factors can help keep occurrences less frequent and reduce an unnecessary hospital stay.

Patrick Broccolo, CNA, is co-owner of Senior1Care, which provides trained, in-home caregivers who assist with dementia care, homemaker and companion services throughout Hamilton and Boone counties. Visit Senior1Care.com for more information.

Walk through your home and consider nonskid mats/carpets on slick floor surfaces, stable grab bars for support and adequate night lighting, particularly around stairwells, walkways and bathrooms. Instead of furniture, consider using stable assistive devices.

— Patrick Broccolo

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55 AND BETTER Winter 2021

When it comes to downsizing, planning is key Commentary by Kristen Howard

L

et’s face it, no one likes to think that they are getting older. Admitting that you might need some assistance in the coming years is never an easy discussion. But no matter where you are in your golden years, planning early is the key.

So, why is this important?: • The decisions are yours and no one else’s.

• You can clearly identify your wants and needs to your adult children and extended family.

• Planning prevents rushed and last-minute decisions.

• If your health changes, you are prepared.

• It provides time to research your next move and where you would like to live.

• It gives you and your loved one’s time to organize and plan, providing peace of mind.

Getting started may seem like a daunting task, but here are some things you can do: • If you have adult children, organize a group phone call discussion or live meeting. The more you are all on the same page, the less stress and disputes will occur.

• Meet with a senior transition company that can help you with all aspects of your move. The more they can manage for you, the better.

• Start researching senior communities or other living options. There are many levels of care to choose from.

Make sure your current and future health needs will be met.

• When possible, start sorting through your things months ahead and do it one room at a time. By doing so, it will not be as overwhelming as trying to go through everything all at once.

Kristen Howard is the director of marketing and outreach at Halo Senior Solutions

Welcome to Cedarwood, the newest Assisted Living Residential Apartments at Hoosier Village.

The care, amenities, and relaxed lifestyle at Hoosier Village are unmatched in the Indianapolis area, and we’re responding to demand by expanding our assisted living apartments.

We invite you to reserve your spot at the Cedarwood now so that in 2021 you’ll be enjoying maintenance-free living in one of the region’s finest communities. Cedarwood features the area’s largest assisted living apartments, as well as a wide variety of organized activities, impromptu gatherings, and much more.

Come see what all the excitement is about.

Call 317.873.3349 or visit www.hoosiervillage.com for more information.

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How younger workers can mentor older colleagues Submitted by News and Experts

M

entoring usually refers to a manager, executive or experienced employee guiding a younger person in the workplace, helping them acquire knowledge and new skills that foster professional growth.

But with the expanding role of technology in today’s rapidly evolving business climate, a role reversal sometimes takes place – reverse mentorship. That is, older employees are paired with younger ones who teach them about technology – a strong suit for millennials and Gen Z workers, generations who grew up with

technology.

Reverse mentoring can be a plus for businesses in bridging generation gaps and knowledge gaps, and also a lifeline for older workers who otherwise might get phased out, said Rod Robertson, managing partner of Briggs Capital (briggscapital.com), international entreRobertson preneur and author of “Winning at Entrepreneurship: Insider’s Tips on Buying, Building, and Selling Your Own Business.”

“The older people better pay attention to these young people and find a mentor so they can teach

them about technology,” Robertson said. “Recent studies have shown that the COVID-19 pandemic has greatly accelerated the shift to e-commerce and e-learning.

“The people who don’t climb aboard the tech train will be left behind in the post-pandemic shakeout. A lack of tech knowledge is an excuse for organizations to cut the more expensive, older people and bring in the younger talent. These young tech execs should latch onto a floundering management exec and lead them to the new world order before they become obsolete.

In return, the young people get access to years of wisdom, and companies can become more cohesive and efficient in the whole reverse mentorship process.”

Get local help with your Medicare questions.

I’m Cheryl Wade, a licensed sales agent in Boone & Hamilton counties and Geist 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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SPRJ55189

Uncommon heroes

Out with the old, in with the

Commentary by Tom Weesner

A

listening ear for an HVAC pro during a family crisis leads to a friendship; a handshake and family conversation leads to above-andbeyond construction debris removal; and two pizzas and Gatorade on a hot day leads to digging a trench for my mom.

Brent, Eduardo, Tommy, Jason, Rick . . . to name a few. Men who go above-andbeyond. Heroes, in my mind. No, not front-line health care workers, but men who get up at the break of dawn and labor through the day to ensure we have heat, our trash is taken, our water is hot, or make our homes a little nicer.

Crawling through attics on 90-degree days or laying pavers for a new patio in the hot sun, they work hard to provide for their families while making our lives better. These men have taught me the value of a kind word, a listening ear and respect – values I was raised on.

These men remind me of the importance of pride, kindness, integrity and friendship. As there are no shortcuts in quality construction, there should be no shortcuts in being kind in everyday interaction.

Whether it is the trashman, the plumber, the HVAC repairman or the yard laborer, they are sensitive, take pride in their work, they cry, they struggle with life, their career, their kids and paying the bills. My connection with these men year after year is priceless.

As we move into 2021, pause for a moment and see who makes your life better. Perhaps you left a gift for the mail carrier – think about doing the same for your trashman.

Perhaps it is an especially cold day and your home is being serviced — a cup of coffee would be a nice treat for the workers. PYour kindness might just lead to a lifelong friend.

So, here’s to my heroes keeping the heat on, the water running and houses looking good. I am proud of you and glad you are my friends. Brent, Eduardo, Tommy, Jason, Rick, thank you for your service!

New!

Featured Home

Westfield’s First 55 and Better Community Low-Maintenance Ranch Homes from the Mid $200s • Located at 193rd and Springmill

Monroe | Move-in: March

WAS: $338,490 NOW: $329,995 Homesite 164 | 19724 McDonald Place

• Abundance of outdoor living with front and rear covered porches available

• 2 Beds + Flex Room • 2 Baths

• Stunning clubhouse with soaring 2-story fireplace, proposed lounge area and outdoor pool (Coming Spring 2021)

• Tray Ceiling in Owner’s • Pond View Homesite Bedroom adjacent to Common Area • Crown Moulding in Foyer, • Garage with Storage Area Kitchen and Great Room • Luxury Tiled Shower with Seat

• 180 acres with 3 miles of walking/biking trails

Everything’s Included® at no extra cost to you.

• 1,915 sq ft • Rear Covered Patio

Quartz countertops in kitchen and baths | Kitchens with stainless steel appliances, even the fridge! | Upgraded hard surface flooring HardiPlank siding | Dimensional shingles | And MORE!

317-659-3230 | osbornetrails.com | 19373 Sumrall Place, Westfield, IN 46074 Tom Weesner is the president of Motion 4 Life Fitness.

Pursuant to the Fair Housing Act, this housing is intended for occupancy by at least one person 55 years of age or older per home, although the occupants of a limited number of the homes may be younger. Within this limited number, one member of the household must be 45 years or older with no one in permanent residence under 19 years of age. Existing and proposed amenities for the community are subject to changes, substitutions and/or deletions without notice. Lennar makes no representation or guarantee that the community or any amenities will be built out as currently planned. Please see your New Home Consultant and home purchase agreement for actual features designated as an Everything’s Included feature, additional information, disclosures, and disclaimers relating to your home and its features. Elevations of a home may vary and we reserve the right to substitute and /or modify design and materials, in our sole opinion and without notice. Please see your actual home purchase agreement for additional information, disclosures and disclaimers related to the home and its features. Stated dimensions and square footage are approximate and should not be used as representation of the home’s precise or actual size. Any statement, verbal or written, regarding “under air” or “finished area” or any other description or modifier of the square footage size of any home is a shorthand description of the manner in which the square footage was estimated and should not be construed to indicate certainty. Garage sizes may vary from home to home and may not accommodate all vehicles. Features, amenities, floor plans, elevations, square footage and designs vary per plan and community and are subject to changes or substitution without notice. Lennar makes no guarantee as to the availability of homes within the price ranges set forth above. Price subject to change without notice. Visit Lennar.com or see a Lennar New Home Consultant for further details and important legal disclaimers. This is not an offer in states where prior registration is required. Void where prohibited by law. This advertisement provided by Lennar Indianapolis located at 11555 N. Meridian Street, Suite 400, Carmel, IN 46032. Copyright © 2020 Lennar Corporation Lennar, the Lennar logo and the Everything’s Included logo are U.S. registered service marks or service marks of Lennar Corporation and/or its subsidiaries. Date: 1/2021 LNIND920

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MLS Laser Therapy option for foot and ankle pain

May’s World War II knowledge grows with master’s degree

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

R

on May already had a rich knowledge of World War II history.

The Carmel resident took another step with an academic pursuit.

May, who has served as chaplain at Hoosier Village in Zionsville since 2015, earned his master’s degree in World War II Studies Program Dec. 14, 2020 at Arizona State University.

The program exclusively focused on World War II is the first of its kind in the world.

“The thing it did most for me was increase my understanding of the global aspect of the World War II and implications,” he said. “It was very intentional to build a global look at World War II instead of just the traditional view from the Western or American viewpoint of the war.”

The online program began in January of 2019 and came into existence through a collaborative partnership between Arizona State University and the National World War II Museum in New Orleans.

May, 57, was one of 42 students in the first cohort to graduate from the program. The two-year degree consisted of 10 courses (30 credit hours) that reviewed the global impact of World War II and taught students the skill of critical analysis in researching and writing about the war. May said he had to thank BHI Senior Living’s BHI Foundation assisted him with a scholarship for master’s program. BHI operates Hoosier Village.

May’s Capstone Project digital portfolio features some of his academic submissions and personal reflections on his work as a graduate historian “They take four of your papers from four classes and you rework, refine and elaborate further,” May said. “There was one paper, one audio podcast and one video lecture and one museum exhibit.”

May said there was a course called “World War II Today,” which examined outcomes and implications from World War II to the current times.

“A little bit was how things set up for the Korean War and Vietnam War and the Cold War,” May said. “The courses were all quite good but the one I enjoyed the most was the class focusing on oral history interviews and aspects of memories.”

He is also the author of two books on World War II veteran stories “Our Service Our Stories” volumes 1 & 2. May, who uses his full name of Ronald P. May as author, is working on the third book, which he expects will be released in late

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55 AND BETTER Winter 2021

Commentary by Dr. David Sullivan

I

Ron May is working on his third book on stories from World War II veterans. (File photo)

spring.

“That kind of got delayed when I started working on the master’s program because of time,” he said. “I’m 65 percent done with my third book and have really already started a fourth book with interviews and materials gatherings. It’s going to be about those who worked in the medical field.”

May said he has a couple new residents of Hoosier Village that are World War II veterans.

May understand the number of living World War II veterans are dwindling.

“So, I have some new material there but what I’ve been doing looking ahead to the future is trying to collect memoirs or oral interviews from those that have passed away,” May said.

“Actually, two residents have supplied with their father’s memoirs and another all of the letters that were shared during the three years he was in the war. I’m building the stories from of their memoirs and the letters.”

May, a chaplain in the Naval Reserves for 22 years, also has acted in recent years, putting on a one-man show as war correspondent Ernie Pyle. He also acted in Carmel Community Players’ “Failure to Zig Zag” about the trial after the sinking of the USS Indianapolis. He was set to appear in Civic Theatre’s “A Few Good Men” in March 2020, but it was postponed by the pandemic a few hours before opening night. It has been tentatively rescheduled for May 7-22.

For more, visit ronaldpmay.com.

f you have been suffering from chronic or acute foot or ankle pain for a while and have not had success with cortisone injections or other conservative treatments, MLS Laser Therapy, or Multiwaved Locked System, may be for you. MLS Laser Therapy may also be an option for those who have been told that surgery is their only alternative for foot and ankle pain.

At Westfield Foot and Ankle, we are committed to providing the latest medical developments and technological advances in medicine to give our patients the best care. One of the many ways we provide this quality care is by being the only podiatry practice in Hamilton County to offer FDAcleared MLS Laser Therapy to our patients.

Laser therapy has been used effectively for many years but advances in technology have produced “the next generation of laser therapy” with the new MLS Therapy Laser. The advanced laser technology works to eliminate pain and reduce inflammation in the body in a safe, painless and noninvasive way. There are no known side effects, and it is quick and convenient.

The MLS Laser uses specific wavelengths of light to treat painful and debilitating conditions. It treats the conditions by penetrating deep into the tissue to stimulate regeneration at the cellular level without the potential for thermal injuries that other lasers can inflict. Treatment is usually administered 10 to 15 minutes. The typical course of treatment is six to 12 sessions, depending on the nature of the condition being treated.

With MLS Laser Therapy, we can offer relief without the use of painful injections, potentially habit-forming drugs or surgery to those suffering with both chronic and acute ailments such as: • Plantar fasciitis • Achilles injuries • Arthritis and bursitis • Tendonitis • Neuromas • Peripheral neuropathy • Post-surgical sites • Fractures • Occupational and sports injuries • Hematomas and gout MLS Laser Therapy also can aid in the quick recovery of sprains and strains as well as the structure and function of an injured region.

To learn more about MLS Laser Therapy and how it may be able to help you, visit our website at westfieldfoot.com or call our office.

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.

The Costs of Care as You Age Commentary by Lisa Dillman

I

can’t tell you how often I have clients come in who have scrimped and saved for retirement, only to realize they are burning through their nest eggs at an alarming rate as they age.

It’s not cheap to grow old gracefully in the U.S. That’s why it’s important to seek good advice before a health crisis hits and all your money is gone.

The mental and financial costs of caring for senior citizens are enormous, but they can be mitigated through careful planning with an elder law attorney.

The costs The average daily rate for nursing home care in Indiana is $217 a day, or roughly $6,510 a month for a private room. Assisted Living in Indiana also is pricey, with the average cost being about $4,100 a month for basic care such as medication and meal reminders. Costs rise quickly if you add in help with eating, bathing or medication administration.

Most of my clients, and the majority of Americans, want to stay in their homes as they age. In-home care costs an average of more than $22 per hour, with most agencies requiring a three-hour minimum per visit.

If an individual needed around the clock care in their home, their average

monthly costs would be $15,840.

It’s not just the actual care costs that impact seniors and their families.

The average caregiver spends 13 hours a month researching resources for their loved one. Many caregivers also take time off work to care for their loved ones, which means they sacrifice income or have to take valuable vacation time.

Planning for aging A long-term care plan provides asset protection solutions so that individuals’ hard-earned savings are not depleted, and clients can receive the care they need. Planning also takes the burden off loved ones.

It may take a small amount of effort up front, but planning will help you avoid the hours of scrambling to find care as your needs change and the spending of unnecessary money. I tell my clients they are never too young to seek out a qualified professional to help ensure their golden years aren’t tarnished.

Happy New Year From Senior1Care

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Lisa Dillman is the Managing Attorney at Applegate & Dillman Elder Law. The firm specializes in elder law and Life Care Planning, a holistic approach to deal with the legal, financial, medical and emotional issues involved in growing older.

The firm has offices in Indianapolis, Carmel and Zionsville. Find out more at www.applegate-dillman.com

Heartland Hospice reaches Level Four status — Indianapolis-based Heartland Hospice serving central Indiana, a division of ProMedica, has been promoted to a Level Four status within the We Honor Veterans Program for its continued care and support of the Veteran population. All wars are different and provide unique experiences and often difficulties for the veterans who served in them. We Honor Veterans was launched by the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization, in collaboration with the Dept. of Veterans Affairs, to help improve the care veterans receive from hospice and palliative care providers. “Mike Judge is a retired United States Marine Corps Master Sergeant. He is also a Heartland Hospice veteran volunteer and our volunteer who helped make our Level Four achievement possible,” said Dana Criss, volunteer coordinator. “The We Honor Veterans mission is very dear to me,” Judge said. “Those men and women who stood in the gap for this nation, whether drafted or volunteered, made themselves available for whatever this country needed, even if that included their own lives. Our veterans are deserving of my undying support and gratitude.” The We Honor Veterans program provides four levels of recognition to organizations that demonstrate a commitment to improving care for veterans. In order to reach Level Four, Heartland was tasked with learning more about caring for veterans, declaring a commitment to honoring veterans at the end of life, providing education for hospice staff and volunteers on caring for veterans and partnering with the VA at the local, regional and national levels to ensure the unique needs of veterans are met. For more, visit wehonorveterans.org.

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You deserve a home that’s a reflection of you.

SCHEDULE A FREE CONTRACTING CONSULTATION TODAY AT www.indyunbundled.com

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