55 and Better — October 26, 2021

Issue 8 | FALL 2021

AND BETTER

T R AV E L I N G

WOMAN Carmel resident’s curiosity leads to many adventures

Schedule your mammogram today. | Call 317.688.2955.

Schedule and complete your mammogram during the month of October and receive this pink Campfire Mug.* *One gift per person, while supplies last.

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55 AND BETTER Fall 2021

317-492-9569 www.applegate-dillman.com No one wants to be a burden to their family.

Asset Protection Planning Long-Term Care Planning Wills Revocable Living Trusts Powers of Attorney Health Care Directives 55 AND BETTER Fall 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.

Contact us today for a complimentary review.

317.343.3215 or medicare@shepherdins.com

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

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55 AND BETTER Fall 2021

Roland Hutcherson enjoys cooking at Encore 55+ Apartments. (Photo courtesy of Encore Apartments)

Hutcherson at home at Encore Commentary by Valerie Wenstrup

M

eet Roland Hutcherson, a resident of Encore 55+ Boutique Apartments.

Hutcherson is a native of Youngstown, Ohio, and settled in Indianapolis after traveling the Midwest opening restaurants for Brinker International, Associate Host and General Mills.

Following his career in the restaurant industry, Hutcherson began work in the cable and communications industry with Time Warner Cable, Bright House Networks and Spectrum Communications as the new market sales representative in Hendricks County and later was promoted to sales supervisor.

Hutcherson is a graduate of the Ohio Institute of Technology and also has a degree in culinary arts from The Chef’s Academy, a division of Harrison College based in Indianapolis.

After leaving his sales career, Hutcherson returned to his first passion, which is food, hospitality and customer service.

Hutcherson said he loves living at Encore 55+ Boutique Apartments in Indianapolis. He moved to Encore after checking out other local apartments and discovered that Encore was the best fit for him.

“I love the energy of the residents,

the layout of my apartment and the view of the courtyard,” he said. “The courtyard always has something going on with pickleball courts, bocce ball, the dog park or just my friends relaxing on the patio, but my favorite area is the fitness center. For our size of community, the fitness center is really first class.”

The Encore staff of Jeanne Milan, Mark McClelland and Valerie Wenstrup played an important role in making his decision to move into Encore, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. “I didn’t want to wait any longer to move,” Hutcherson said.

You can often find Hutcherson cooking at the grill and helping to make Encore’s monthly social events fun and entertaining for all the residents.

Hutcherson enjoys living in Indianapolis and his hobbies include vegetable gardening, exercising and cooking, and he loves all kinds of sports.

He is a big fan of Ohio State sports and the Cleveland Browns, but he is an Indianapolis Colts and Indiana Pacers fan as well.

Hutcherson is the proud father of two adult children: his son, Ty, a mortgage banker in Arizona, and his daughter, Mikhayla, a registered nurse in Illinois.

Going the Extra Mile

binds him further to his patients—a bicycle ride of 150 miles or so that’s, ostensibly, a fundraiser.

To Abonour, it’s more. In that graveside eulogy, he described it as “a long journey of suffering and companionship.”

The more Abonour gets to know his patients, the more he loathes myeloma.

Rafat Abonour, MD, goes the extra mile to help multiple myeloma patients.

R

afat Abonour, MD, and his IU School of Medicine colleagues can see the day coming when there’s a cure for multiple myeloma, a cancer of the blood that originates in bone marrow. Where patients once had a grim prognosis, many now live with the disease for decades. New treatments are coming. Abonour and IU lead the charge.

But to understand what drives Abonour’s search for a cure, it helps to understand how Abonour responds when he loses a patient to the disease.

A few years back, when one of his patients died, Abonour drove 100 miles to deliver a graveside eulogy. He wrote it by hand. Five pages. He said the man should have a front-row seat in heaven.

More recently, Abonour spent several hours over two days at the bedside of another longtime patient near death.

He swapped stories with the family—ones that make you laugh, others that make you cry. There was also a moment when Abonour leaned in and told his patient—his friend—how much he admired him, and how much he loved him.

Myeloma tends to strike people over 60—folks who have done some living and have a deep well of experiences.

Because research is already extending lives— with Abonour’s help—he has years to hear their stories and to understand the dreams they have left.

“They never stop wanting to do the next thing—to go on vacation, to go see a grandson,” he said. “Life is about that journey. And when you see somebody who has been able to accomplish that, it’s just an amazing reward.”

And then there is the unusual ritual Abonour performs each year that

Even today, patients break bones or suffer kidney damage before multiple myeloma gets diagnosed. And while some go into long-term remission—a functional cure, he calls it—others suddenly relapse and begin a steep decline.

“I just hate this disease.

It is a horrible disease,” Abonour said. “I know that everybody will eventually pass away— I’m not going to change destiny. But I want them to live the life that they dreamt of.”

To d a y , A b o n o u r , the Harry and Edith G l a d ste i n Professo r of Cancer Research, and his colleagues at the Indiana University Melvin and Bren Simon Comphrehensive Cancer Center are currently treating more than 1,000 myeloma patients. The center was the first in Indiana, and one of the few in the country, to introduce CAR T-cell therapy, a new form o f i m m u n o t h e r a p y, to multiple myeloma patients. IU is advancing research on several

fronts. And Abonour has helped standardize the practice of multiple myeloma care.

Back in 2005, grant funding for multiple myeloma research was scarce. Abonour knew philanthropy—with its ability to fund new ideas and produce data that can prompt grants—was crucial to his cause. So, he began talking with his patients about how to generate more money for myeloma research.

to see him from all over Indiana.

So, he reasoned, why shouldn’t he go see them? With the patient he would later eulogize at the graveside, Abonour began a cycling event known as Miles for Myeloma. Since its inception, Abonour and friends have covered more than 2,600 miles on their bikes and raised more than $6 million.

For Abonour, no distance is too far to go for his patients.

His patients were coming

Your questions.

Our experts.

Learn more: cancer.iu.edu/simonsays

RESEARCH CURES CANCER Learn More

Scan the QR code with your smart phone or visit go.iu.edu/44Bx

55 AND BETTER Fall 2021

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Martin enjoys social life at Hamilton Trace

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

T

oni Martin enjoys the many activities at Hamilton Trace Senior Living in Fishers.

“She is very social,” said her granddaughter Kristan Bogie, a Carmel resident. “She hates being by herself. She loves being with the other residents.

Even at the assisted living, she thrives by being out. She hates being in her room.

It was the best option for her.”

Martin, 77, moved into The Reserve, said. “With the dementia, it wasn’t really Hamilton Trace’s independent an option to continue working. living section, in 2015. In March She did well for many years, but 2020, she needed more help after my grandpa died in 2015, she was not able to live in a house with her medications, so she moved into assisted living. anymore. She needed more social Martin was a teacher at interaction.”

Rhoades Elementary School on Bogie said Martin enjoys makthe west side of Indianapolis. ing jewelry and crafts at Hamil“She was going back to school ton Trace.

Martin to get another license for teach“She loves going on walks,” ing, and she got diagnosed with vascular Bogie said. “At least once a week, I take dementia when she was around 55,” Bogie he out to eat.”

Bogie said she still recognizes people she sees often.

Bogie was so impressed with the care her grandmother received at the CarDon community that she decided two years ago to take a job as director of marketing and admissions at Greenwood Health and Living, another CarDon community.

“During the pandemic (lockdown), they did a pretty good job of giving them activities to do in their rooms,” Bogie said. “We did window visits and they helped her do FaceTime visits.”

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.

Y0066_21SPRJ55189_C

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55 AND BETTER Fall 2021

SPRJ55189

Callus, corn or wart?

Commentary by Dr. David Sullivan

A

fter a summer spent with your feet less covered, you may have noticed spots of hard or thick skin on your feet. Since corns, calluses and warts may all look similar, I’m here to share how to tell the difference and discuss treatment options.

Calluses Calluses show up as rough, thick areas typically on the bottom of your feet and are yellowish or pale. Often bigger and wider than corns with less defined edges, they’re common on the heels, balls of the feet and the bottom of the big toes. If they get large enough, calluses can hurt your feet.

For small calluses, a pumice stone and good moisturizers may soften up the rough skin. But to prevent calluses from getting larger, you’ll have to take off the pressure from them. Socks and shoes should fit properly, and more supportive shoes may be needed to prevent calluses from forming.

Corns A corn is a type of callus, made of dead skin. They tend to be harder, usually smaller and have a core at their center.

Corns usually hurt more and tend to form on or between your toes. We can help by padding them, and we can even remove corns.

If corns or calluses become painful or inflamed, you’ll want to contact our office.

Individuals with diabetes, fragile skin, poor circulation or nerve problems and numbness in the feet should seek medical advice before trying any treatment.

Warts Warts form on the top of your feet, or on your soles. Warts may appear as bumps or may be skin-colored, pink or brown. Plantar warts are found on the soles of the feet and look like small, clogged blood vessels with black dots or tiny seeds. Warts are caused by an infection.

Some over the counter treatments may be effective, but you’re more likely to find a permanent solution with in-office options.

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.

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.

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

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

55 AND BETTER Fall 2021

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Pause before downsizing Commentary by Carol Applegate

T

For luxury Assisted Living in the Indianapolis area, the choice is yours.

he hot housing market has a lot of senior citizens thinking this may be the time to move to a smaller home, in with their kids or to a 55-and-over community. It’s tempting for seniors to sell their homes quickly right now since values are through the roof. However, they shouldn’t move too fast.

An older Hoosier should pause before putting their home on the market and get counsel from a financial planner and their attorney. One key reason? The sale of the home could impact future eligibility for Medicaid because of the program’s five-year look-back rule.

That rule allows the government to look back at any large financial transactions over the five-year period before applying for Medicaid and then count the value of any assets that have been disposed of during that time – possibly delaying eligibility.

There are a lot of ramifications of downsizing. It’s important to consider any health issues you may have and what the future may hold for you.

Here are some other key questions to ask yourself: • Will I be able to live independently, or will I likely need assistance in the coming years?

• Can I transition to another level of care in the same community if needed?

• Can I continue the new home’s upkeep?

• What opportunities for socializing are nearby?

• How close will my family be?

Finally, once you’ve downsized you can focus on leaving a legacy. This is the time to think about how we want people to remember us and then put any wishes into place in legal documents.

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.

Physical therapy needed after knee replacement surgery Commentary by Linda Barnes

At Hoosier Village and The Barrington of Carmel, you have the freedom to live as independently as you like, all while knowing that if your lifestyle changes, our unparalleled on-site services will change with you.

With all the amenities you’d expect in exclusive hotels and high-end resorts, the two leading Life Plan Communities in the Indianapolis make retirement a bit more glamorous. At Hoosier Village and The Barrington, fine dining, maintenance services, and the perfect amount of care for your lifestyle are just some of the luxuries that await in your new home-sweet-home.

Whichever community you choose, we promise to exceed your expectations.

BHI Senior Living Communities are well known for their luxury, stability and unrivaled quality. We are proud to offer two superb communities in the Indianapolis area so that you can choose your perfect fit.

thebarringtonofcarmel.com | hoosiervillage.com | bhiseniorliving.org

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55 AND BETTER Fall 2021

M

ore than 600,000 total knee replacement procedures are performed each year in the United States. As our population ages and obesity levels continue to increase, knee replacement surgeries are expected to increase.

One of the most important success factors following a total knee replacement is physical therapy and a lifelong exercise program.

Physical therapy typically begins during the hospital stay with initial goal of getting the individual up and walking, decrease swelling in the knee, and increasing range of motion.

On the day of surgery, you likely will be using a walker and taking a few steps with the physical therapist.

In the next few weeks, you will be doing a variety of exercises with the

therapist, including, but not limited to leg raises, ankle pumps, knee straightening, and supported knee bends with a goal of reaching 90-degree flexion.

In 3-6 weeks, you can expect use of a cane or no device at all for walking.

You will start doing normal daily tasks at home such as making your own coffee, showering, dressing, etc. You will also be working on scar mobilization and strengthening as you progress.

In 7-12 weeks, you 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.

Trading scrubs for a camera

By Matt Denton editorial@youarecurrent.com

I

t has been 14 years since Freddie Kelvin first hung up his scrubs and picked up a camera.

From capturing abstract reflections in water to experimenting with blurred motion techniques, Carmel resident and abstract photographer Freddie Kelvin has elevated his photographs to true works of art.

“Visitors come in and say ‘I love your paintings,’ and this means so much to me,” Kelvin said. “That is my intent as an artist.”

Kelvin is a former radiologist and has served as an artist-in-residence at Park Tudor School in Indianapolis. He has exhibited his work in Israel and has performed photography for the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra.

“Photography has always interested me; maybe that explains why I became a radiologist,” Kelvin said.

Kelvin earned a doctor of medicine from the University of London and was an associate professor of radiology at Duke University Medical Center for 10 years. In 1985, he served as clinical professor of radiology at Indiana University School of Medicine, retiring from active practice in 2008.

As an abstract photographer, Kelvin said believes the audience should never truly know the original subject matter of a photograph. Otherwise, the freedom of the viewer to make their own interpretations is lost, he said.

He began his photography career by traveling to the American Far West to capture the natural beauty there.

As Kelvin filled his portfolio with simple landscapes, he quickly became bored.

“The red rocks of Sedona have been photographed thousands of times, who’s to say I could have done it better?” Kelvin said.

His transition from taking realistic photos to creating abstracts mirrors the development of many photographers, he said. It is not an uncommon experience for photographers to try to make the natural world abstract and to then find abstracts in nature as their skills progress, Kelvin said.

Kelvin prides himself on a persisting commitment to supporting fine art in Indiana. Among other projects, he

LIFE’S TOO SHORT

INDEPENDENT SENIOR LIVING

Freddie Kelvin is an abstract photographer. (Photo by Matt Denton) taught a new generation of photography students at the Park Tudor School and photographed the Indianapolis dance company Dance Kaleidoscope regularly for 14 years.

Lately, Kelvin’s work has been divided between capturing reflections in water and exploring the trend towards intentional camera movement.

This emerging genre of abstract photography utilizes complex camera movement techniques to strategically blur subjects’ motion.

While his initial interest in nature photography satisfied his love for travel, his reflections collection has taken him home to the waterways of central Indiana. These photographs were primarily taken in Carmel and Zionsville.

Abstract pieces can create beauty from the mundane, Kelvin said. This gives abstract photographers the opportunity to find art in the unlikeliest places.

“Many of these photos are just the reflections of trees and leaves, but I make sure you’d never know it,” Kelvin said.

Abstract photography lends a unique freedom to the artist to create and shares a similar freedom with the viewer to interpret, Kelvin said.

His compositions have been exhibited at Art on Main in downtown Carmel for more than three years.

“Carmel is now the center of art in Indiana,” Kelvin said. “And I love being a small part of that.”

Freddie Kelvin’s portfolio is viewable at freddiesfotosforever.com.

Selected works are exhibited at Art on Main Gallery 111 W. Main Street, Carmel.

Lee Grimm & Cathy Sitterding at a Butler Bulldogs game

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55 AND BETTER Fall 2021

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ADVERTORIAL

WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT DURING YOUR NEXT MAMMOGRAM

O

ctober is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and receiving routine screening mammograms are vital for early detection. The American College of Radiology recommends beginning annual screening mammography at age 40. Women should meet with their primary care provider to discuss their level of risk and when it would be best to start getting mammograms, as some women may need earlier screening if they are at increased risk. Each woman is different and requires a personalized approach to screening. Just like all women are different, all breasts are different. Some are fatty, some are dense, and some are a mix. About 40 percent of women have dense breast tissue.

Dr. Emily Burdick, MD, provides answers and information on what to expect during a mammogram. Burdick is a breast imaging radiologist at IU Health Saxony Hospital and the IU Health Joe & Shelly Schwarz Cancer Center at IU Health North Hospital Breast Density – What does it mean?

Breasts are made of fat and fibroglandular breast tissue. When there is more of the fibroglandular breast tissue compared to fat, the breast is considered dense. Having dense breast tissue is common and normal. It is more common in younger women. On a mammogram, dense tissue looks white. Since breast cancer also appears white on a mammogram, the dense tissue can make it harder to see.

Breast density is linked to an increased risk of breast cancer.

Women with dense breast tissue have a higher risk of developing breast cancer than women who do not have dense breast tissue.

How do you find out if you have dense breasts?

Breast density is determined by the radiologist who reads your mammogram and classifies the density into one of four categories. Your mammogram report will contain your tissue

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55 AND BETTER Fall 2021

density category. You’ll also be notified in your result letter if you have dense tissue.

For women with dense breasts, other screening options are available.

IU Health offers the latest in breast imaging technology for early detection. Our advanced supplemental imaging options for women with dense breasts now include abbreviated/fast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI); and whole breast ultrasound (automated breast ultrasound,

ABUS). Like a traditional MRI exam, Fast MRI is the most sensitive examination for detecting breast cancer.

If you have been told you are high risk for cancer, you should talk to your doctor about high risk screening options.

Learn more or schedule your mammogram by visiting iuhealth.org/mammo.

Three reasons why a mammogram is an important part of your preventive health

1

A mammogram can save your life. Early detection of breast cancer can increase a woman’s five-year survival rate to 97%.

2

It doesn’t take much time. Mammograms are a quick procedure, only taking about 20 minutes.

3

Your risk of developing breast cancer increases as you age. The older you get, the more you are at risk of developing breast cancer. That’s why mammograms aren’t a one-and-done test.

Mammograms are vital to your health and longevity as a woman. Indiana University Health recommends routine screening mammography to improve the likelihood of detecting breast cancer early. If you have specific questions about your level of risk for breast cancer, schedule an appointment with your primary care provider.

Schedule and complete your mammogram during the month of October and receive this pink Campfire Mug.* Schedule your mammogram today.

Call 317.688.2955.

Our Safe Care Pledge Rest assured your safety is our utmost priority. At IU Health, we want to assure you that we are taking thoughtful steps to make sure our spaces remain safe for everyone.

How we’re keeping you safe at each IU Health care facility:

iuhealth.org/mammo

■

A universal mask policy

■

Social distancing

■

Limited waiting room time

■

Continually disinfecting

*One gift per person, while supplies last. ©2021 IUHealth

55 AND BETTER Fall 2021

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T R AV E L I N G

WOMAN Carmel resident’s curiosity leads to many adventures

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

M

arie Albertson’s aim is to encourage older women to do things they want to do.

“I only started traveling when I was in my 70s,” she said.

Albertson, now 88, began taking on challenges after her husband, Bob, died in 1997.

“He would not have jumped out of an airplane or gone kayaking,” said Albertson, who also is a published author.

The Carmel resident also rode a camel in Morocco, has driven a Lamborghini, swam with sea lions in the Galapagos Islands and gone on an African safari.

Albertson’s last major trip was kayaking and whale watching in the San Juan Islands, off the coast of Washington, in 2019.

“I’ve been kayaking around the world, including Australia,” she said.

Alberston has made three trips to Africa. She has been to Sweden, Norway and Denmark.

“I don’t mind traveling alone,” Albertson said. “I have interesting roommates. The last roommate was from Tasmania. I’ve been doing that since I first started traveling.”

Albertson did travel with a friend to Iceland. She said she doesn’t understand why people don’t visit places they would like to see.

“I don’t have a lot of money, but I can travel cheaply,” she said.

Albertson’s goal is to visit all seven continents. She has been to all but Antarctica.

“Antarctica is expensive, and you can only go certain times of the year,” she said.

Albertson said women of her generation were constantly discouraged from trying different actives.

“Don’t let somebody tell you that you can’t do something, like we’ve (been) told all her lives,” she said.

Marie Albertson enjoys kayaking all around the world. (Photo courtesy of Marie Albertson)

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55 AND BETTER Fall 2021

Continued on Page 13

I finally found a podiatrist I can trust.

Ruth Buhrt, Wound Care & MLS Laser Therapy Patient

“Dr. Sullivan and his fabulous team genuinely care about me as a patient. They are friendly, knowledgeable, fun and efficient. The office is easy to get to. Dr. Sullivan is the first foot doctor I truly trust.”

Marie Albertson shows her adventurous side by riding a camel. (Photo courtesy of Marie Albertson)

Continued from Page 12 Albertson visited some places simply because she was curious.

“I think more people should have a sense of curiosity,” she said.

Albertson only reads nonfiction books.

“You keep on learning,” she said.

“I’m going to take a class in entrepreneurship pretty soon.”

Albertson has four children and seven grandchildren.

“I wanted to take a granddaughter on a trip, but my daughter wouldn’t let me. She said I’m too adventurous,” Albertson said.

Albertson’s plans for traveling outside of the U.S. have been put on hold because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“My daughter and I might go to Switzerland, if it ever calms down,” Albertson said.

Albertson moved to Carmel about 24 years ago. She had been the assistant director of the library in Plymouth but decided to move after her husband died.

“I came down here looking for a

job at (age) 63 and I got it at the (Indiana) State Library,” said Albertson, who retired at age 70.

Spreading laughter Besides being a prolific traveler, Albertson also is an author. Her most recent book is, “Aren’t You Glad You’re Old?: A Humorous Look at Life in Older Years.” It was released earlier this summer.

“I don’t do much promoting,” she said. “My first book I did a lot of speaking, but with the pandemic, I couldn’t. It’s on Amazon. I should do more but I’m too lazy.”

Albertson said the book focuses on funny things that happen to older people.

“I try to zero in on humor because I think everyone needs it right now,” Albertson said. “It’s especially geared toward older women.”

Albertson’s first book, “Old Librarians Never Die, They Jump Out of Airplanes,” was released in 2012.

Her second book, “50 Shades of Grey Humor: Laughing All the Way,” was released in March 2016 “I don’t find writing a book that difficult. The most difficult thing if finding a good publisher,” Albertson said.

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Rosalie Hurst, chairman of the board of the N.K. Hurst Co., has lived at Marquette Manor in Indianapolis for two years. (Photo courtesy of Rosalie Hurst)

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ated at 7555 El Beulah Blvd,www.elbeulah.com Indianapolis, IN 46256 NW corner of 82nd & Hague Rd. 317-577-4617 www.elbeulah.com

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55 AND BETTER Fall 2021

By Rick Morwick rick@youarecurrent.com

A

sk Rosalie Hurst her age, you won’t get a numerical reply.

You’ll get a declaration.

“I am 84 years old and going strong,” said Hurst, whose age belies an active lifestyle someone decades younger might have a tough time keeping pace with.

A resident of Marquette Manor senior living community, 8140 Township Line Rd., Indianapolis, Hurst plays pickleball, walks nature trails, attends concerts, enjoys bridge and works out in the fitness center alongside trainers from the National Institute of Fitness and Sport.

Oh, and one other thing.

Hurst is chairman of the board of the N.K. Hurst Co., one of the leading packagers of dried beans in the United States. The company was founded in 1938 by Hurst’s late father-in-law, Needham King Hurst, distributing coffee, tea and sugar. The Hurst family started the bean business in 1947 in a building near what became the site of Lucas Oil Stadium but now operates in a more modern facility in Zionsville.

Rosalie’s late husband, Bill Hurst, ran the company for 60 years with his brother, Needham Hurst. Bill Hurst, a U.S. Army veteran, died 6

1/2 years ago, leaving behind nine children, eight grandchildren, three great-grandchildren and Rosalie, who moved to Marquette Manor two years ago.

“It is a wonderful place,” said Rosalie, whose terrace apartment overlooks the front lawn and lake. “There is not enough time to do everything that is offered here. I hope some day to join the knitting and craft classes as well as the current events group.

There are always many opportunities to volunteer in various events.”

A Fort Wayne native, Rosalie spent most of her summers at Lake Wawasee, enjoying boating, water skiing, sailing, riding wave runners, turtle hunting and fishing. She earned a bachelor’s degree in education at Indiana University, where she met her future husband, Bill. The couple married three weeks after graduation and were together for 55 1/2 years.

Although life took her in a new direction after Bill’s passing, Rosalie is still enjoying the ride and has no plans to hit the brakes.

“I am a homemaker, a wife, a mother, a grandmother, a volunteer and a friend,” she said. “As far as retiring, I don’t plan to.”

Three helpful tips to avoid burnout as a family caregiver

Karen Sigman Agency, LLC ARE YOU MAKING THE RIGHT MOVES!

Commentary by Patrick Broccolo

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he idea of taking care of others is nothing new, but since the start of the pandemic caring for aging parents or family has become even more challenging. To best care for your loved ones, you need to remember that taking time to care for yourself is an important step.

Many times, the relationship dynamic changes when family members become caregivers, issues big and small feel more personal, more emotional, and ultimately more stressful. If you are a primary or secondary caregiver for others in your family, you likely feel overwhelmed and unable to truly step away from your responsibilities. The feeling of burnout can be significant and sometimes you have to chip away at it, a little at a time. Here are three tips that can help move the needle: • Move Your Body: Taking a walk, practicing yoga, or working out along to a YouTube video can help you not only feel good in the moment but build your strength and boost your mood.

Incorporating opportunities throughout the day where you can move your body and get some exercise can really help you feel better all day long.

• Connect with Others: Talking with others can help us feel better, be that a friend, a therapist, or someone in a similar position.

Connecting with other people is a great way to get new ideas or possibly learn about other solutions or options that you may not otherwise hear about. There are often plenty of people in our lives who want to help us but

may not know that something is wrong, or how they can help.

Talking to those people can help you find solutions together.

• Rest: Resting is both getting enough sleep and making sure you take breaks. Resting may not always be easy if you are a caregiver, so optimizing the breaks you have can be really valuable.

Using a white noise machine, a weighted blanket, or blackout curtains can help make sure you’re getting the most restful sleep you can. Stepping away to take a walk around the block can help give you some quiet moments in an otherwise busy day.

If a car is out of gas, it won’t take you where you need to go. The same goes for us, too. If we don’t have the energy and personal care we need, we won’t do our best in helping those we love. Taking some time to take care of yourself isn’t selfish, it’s essential, and even more important for those who actively take care of others.

Hiring someone to clean your house once a month, or an at-home caretaker to look in on your loved one a few hours during the day or overnight sitting can give you the time needed to recharge. Seek help where you can, be kind to yourself, and take care of yourself. We all need help sometimes.

Patrick Broccolo, CNA, is coowner 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.

If a car is out of gas, it won’t take you where you need to go. The same goes for us, too. If we don’t have the energy and personal care we need, we won’t do our best in helping those we love.

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Barrington’s newest resident has familiar name

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

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ne of The Barrington of Carmel’s newest residents should be a familiar name to many longtime Indianapolis-area residents.

Virginia Blankenbaker, a former Republican Indiana state senator from Indianapolis, moved into The Barrington of Carmel a month ago. She had been living with her daughter in Wilmette, Ill., and wanted to be closer to her doctor.

Approximately five years ago, Blankenbaker, 88, said she was about to Blankenbaker start working with a nonpartisan group of grandmothers to address gun control.

“About the time I was getting that organized, I was diagnosed with multiple myeloma, which is a bone marrow cancer,” said Blankenbaker, who has five children,15 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. “I’ll be full of energy but within four hours, I get so tired I want to sleep.”

Blankenbaker, who has been widowed three times, was staying with her daughter in Florida at the time.

Her Florida doctor said the best researcher in the world, Dr. Rafat Abonour, happens to be at IU Health.

“He said the bad news is, it is not curable,” Blankenbaker said. “The good news is it’s treatable. The other

good news is you never smoked, you have healthy lungs, your heart is strong. All my vitals are healthy.

That was farm life. He said I might live 20 more years.

That might be long, but it will get me to see more great-grandchildren.”

Blankenbaker had lived with one daughter in Florida and gone back and forth between there and her other daughter in Wilmette, Ill. “I said I just wanted to be back here and be under his treatment,” Blankenbaker said. “He’s so respected.”

Blankenbaker was a state senator from 1980 to 1992.

Some of the legislative issues she is proud of working on was representing the senate on the committee to establish the White River Park Commission.

Another of her proud achievements was authoring a bill to help recognize Martin Luther King Jr. Day as an official holiday in Indiana. It had previously been a national holiday.

“I authorized a lot of legislation on who should not carry a handgun,” Blankenbaker said. “Then handgun legislation did say there had to be a 14-day waiting period to do a criminal background and a history of mental illness. That (mental illness stipulation) ended up being dropped, but we did get something passed in 1983. All that was kind of erased when I left the legislature. The gun lobby kept reducing that.

“It seems like people talk about (stronger gun legislation) but they don’t do anything about it anymore.”

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Blankenbaker also sponsored a bill stating that if a company had on-site child care for its staff, it would receive a tax credit for hiring child care workers.

She also worked to reduce classroom size for early childhood students.

“We could only get it done from kindergarten through third grade, but it’s not supposed to be over 26 (children),” she said. “If it was, the state would provide an assistant teacher.”

Blankenbaker unsuccessfully ran for Indianapolis mayor in 1991 and U.S. Congress in 1996. She said she was encouraged to run against incumbent Democrat Julia Carson because she had support from Democrats as a result of her more moderate stances. Blankenbaker said she felt she had a chance, but a campaign visit from Newt Gingrich, former Republican Speaker of the House, hurt her chances.

“I was not a fan of Newt Gingrich,” she said. “He always wants to use terms that are divisive. He would say liberal like it was a cuss word.”

But Gingrich wanted to appear in support of Blankenbaker a few days before the election because it was a seat the national Republican Party believed it could pick up.

“I had a rally at Garfield Park. (Gingrich) shows up and my support (fell off),” she said.

Blankenbaker said she encourages young people to volunteer for political campaigns.

Seek experts before moving

W

Commentary by Todd Howard

hen seniors are considering a move, many decide on concierge-type services. When doing so, there is a lot to consider, and, as is the case with any major life decision, some questions go unasked.

It doesn’t have to be that way with a go-to resource. For instance: • The family would dive into various chores, with children and relatives picking up diverse roles.

They do so with excellent intentions, but sometimes they have no order in the process. That alone could cost mom and/or dad additional dollars. It’s important to ask questions of an expert first as well as look at technology opportunities for assistance.

• It almost is a forgone conclusion that an older adult’s move would involve an attorney, but that isn’t always the case. For some, it’s a fear of the “meter running.” It’s stunning to not take advantage of that level of expertise, especially when the initial consultation

may be free.

• In this hot sellers’ market, everyone is an “expert” and expects an offer $50,000 higher than the list price. People have become overzealous, and many also have become their own panicked Realtor. Investors can lock up a home on contract with a 10- to 15-day grace period so they can inspect and, in some cases, later ask for a price adjustment. That can cause grief and cost dollars, when a senior real estate specialist or elder attorney could have headed it off. That’s just one of the many pitfalls or missteps in panic selling to an investor whose background hasn’t been fully vetted.

Those who take time earlier in the process to make calls or have visits with experts end up with a lot less hassle throughout the move.

Todd Howard is the owner of Carmel-based Halo Senior Solutions and a licensed Realtor.

For more information, you may email him at info@haloseniorsolutions.com.

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Couple stays active at Hoosier Village

By Rick Morwick rick@youarecurrent.com

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hroughout the early years of their marriage, John and Kristin Gable lived all across the U.S. Their occupations kept them on the move.

“We have lived in several different states during our working careers,” said John, noting that the couple finally settled down in Indianapolis in 2007 and have lived there ever since.

But the Gables, who are both in their mid-60s, have not slowed down, especially not since moving into Hoosier Village senior living community in March.

John is the pastor of Tabernacle Presbyterian Church in Indianapolis.

Kristin is a retired middle school math teacher who enjoys playing pickleball.

Living in Hoosier Village has, in fact, opened new doors for the active couple.

A BHI Senior Living Community, Hoosier Village is a 300-acre neighborhood in Zionsville for residents 62 and older. It has a fitness center, library, dining venues and a nondenominational chapel, among other amenities.

“We both really enjoy meeting our new neighbors,” John said. “Everyone we have met is very friendly and welcoming. (We enjoy) the many activities Hoosier Village offers. We are both learning to play pickleball and have really enjoyed our neighborhood

Hoosier Village residents Kristin Gable, left, and her husband, John Gable, surrounded by three of their grandchildren.

(Photo courtesy of John Gable).

gatherings.”

Kristin agrees.

“I enjoy our walks around the various neighborhoods within Hoosier Village, meeting and visiting with new friends,” she said.

Although Kristin is retired, John is still active in his ministry and has no immediate plans to retire.

“I love working with people and encouraging them in the ways God is working in their lives,” he said. “I also love our church’s ministry and service in the city.”

During her teaching career, Kristin enjoyed her “interactions with middle school-aged children and helping students master math concepts in a variety of ways.”

The Gables have two adult children and three grandchildren.

What if I’m not hungry?

Commentary by Tasha K. Lane

A

s we grow older, our bodies go through many changes, whether through natural development or states of illness or injury.

Some of these changes can impact how we consume food. I hear from a lot of my older clients that they just “aren’t hungry.” As a trainer and a RD2B (registered dietitian to be), this concerns me. A decrease in food intake can mean unintended weight loss which can lead to malnutrition-re-

lated risk factors such as bone density loss, muscle loss, and lack of energy.

There are many reasons why you may not feel hungry. It could simply be due to the aging process. For example, the body does not send out the same appetite-stimulating hormones that it when you were younger. In addition, diminished taste or smell, declining oral health, and some Continued on Page 19

Continued from Page 18 medications that come with treating an age-related problem can affect your hunger and increase risk of inadequate intake.

What do you do if you just aren’t hungry? Here are a few tips that may help you eat more food throughout your day.

1. Eat something within an hour to an hour and a half after waking to kick start your metabolism.

2. Eat a little bit of something every 3 to 4 hours. This way, you can eat smaller amounts and still get in the necessary vitamins, nutrients, and calories.

3. Use herbs and seasonings besides just salt to help increase the flavor of foods.

4. If possible, limit the amount of fluid you drink with meals. This ensures you have more room for food when you eat. Use the time between meals to increase your fluid intake.

5. Avoid empty calorie foods that provide little nutrition and focus on nutrient-dense foods such as whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.

6. Add a calorie-dense shake or smoothie around mealtime.

7. Most importantly, stay active! Increased activity increases hunger hormones.

Staying active and eating healthy are key to an active and fit lifestyle. Together, they help your body remain strong, prevent falls and maintain balance and mobility. When thinking about foods, remember that all foods fit. in general, if something sounds good, eat it with moderation in mind. Remember, some medications and medical conditions have nutritional guidelines. Please check with your medical provider if you have any concerns or questions about the appropriateness of certain foods.

Tasha K. Lane is a registered dietitian to be and National Academy of Sports Medicine/ Certified Public Trainer.

Staying active and eating healthy are key to an active and fit lifestyle.

For luxury Independent living in the Indianapolis area, the choice is yours.

Whether you’re looking to live independently on a sprawling 300-acre campus with high-end amenities throughout, or in a luxury urban setting with everything you need under one roof, Hoosier Village and The Barrington of Carmel allow you to choose the community that checks all your boxes.

At the two leading Life Plan Communities in the Indianapolis area, you can live as independently as you’d like with the assurance that, should your needs change, we provide all the support you need.

Whichever community you choose, we promise to exceed your expectations.

BHI Senior Living Communities are well known for their luxury, stability and unrivaled quality. We are proud to offer two superb communities in the Indianapolis area so that you can choose your perfect fit.

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