55 and Better — October 31, 2023

DISCOVER EPCOn’S

Courtyard Home Advantage O N P A G E 8 Issue 16 | FALL 2023

AND BETTER

VOTE ON O R BEFORE NOV. 7!

Learn more about Sue’s plan to protect senio rs inside -->

ON

THE

GO

PrimeLife Enrichment’s rapidly expanding transportation program seeks drivers, funds

Breast cancer is no match for our skill.

One of the most preferred cancer care teams in the state, our breast cancer surgeons receive 4.7 out of 5 stars from our patients.

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55 AND BETTER Fall 2023

55 AND BETTER Fall 2023

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Whatever you are planning to do this fall, do it without leg pain.

Dementia expert shares tips with caregivers

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

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55 AND BETTER Fall 2023

ementia care specialist Teepa Snow’s life mission is to shed a positive light on ways to treat dementia.

Snow and her Positive Approach to Care team examine different ways to support those living with brain change in a more positive and respectful way.

Snow shared her approach Oct. 12 with professional and family caregivers at the Flourish Conference at Marquette Senior Living in Indianapolis. The conference was presented by Senior Home Companions and Story Cottage.

Snow said the condition is more than memory problems — it is brain failure problems.

“We have to start recognizing what’s working and what’s not working,” Snow said.

Snow’s belief is that people living with dementia are doing the best they can.

“Every form of dementia that there is robs you of skill before it takes away your strength,” Snow said. “One of the strengths is the rhythm of language. Dementia will rob you of the skill of language but (also) rob you of the rhythm.”

Vocabulary, comprehension speech and speech production are three skills of language.

Snow demonstrated the power of music, poetry and rhyme, prayer and counting in leading the audience into the children’s song “Head, Shoulders, Knees and Toes. She said the song can help teach about community, movement and balance.

“This song teaches children about body parts that are hard to learn,” Snow said. “Joints are really hard for kids to learn.”

Snow explained how the hippocampus function has a major role in learning and remembering.

“Maybe you are fine with learning new things, but you’re having trouble knowing whether or not you’ve done something recently or it’s been a long time since you’ve done it,” Snow said.

“Maybe you think people are trying to trick you.”

For instance, a person might be-

Dementia care specialist Teepa Snow gave a presentation during an Oct. 12 conference. (Photo by Mark Ambrogi) lieve he has completed their taxes because they always have before.

The monetary incentive delay induces changes in sensory processing.

“This is part of the brain designed to keep you going as a human being,” Snow said. “It’s the part that lets you be you. The first skill of the MID delay is a threat perceiver. It is designed to notice a potential threat to you.”

Snow said one reaction if a person perceives a threat is to freeze. Another is to not make eye contact and get away or to fight.

“So, it’s fright, flight and fight,” Snow said. “The next is to hide all the good stuff, stuff they might take. The fifth is to seek to get in control or get a connection.”

Snow said the cerebellum controls the rhythm of language. When there is a malfunction, the person might stop talking, making eye contact or interacting.

“Then what happens is the brain is getting less exercise because of the one fear that I have that I will be found out that I’ m a teacher and I can’t talk,” Snow said.

That form of dementia is called primary progressive aphasia and Snow said there are variety of variations of it.

“Really intelligent people can have this,” Snow said.

One body language technique is to be on the person with dementia’s preferred side. Snow said that sends a strong visual clue that it is safe to connect.

For more, visit teepasnow.com.

Everyday activities becoming more difficult?

YOUR JOU R N EY B EGIN S AT. . .

apartments

Commentary by Valerie J. Weesner

T

he leaves are coming down and raking season is upon us. Last year around this time, I was out in the yard piling leaves onto a tarp, grabbed the tarp and pulled it across the yard walking backwards.

A light bulb came on, and I had my daughter video my trek across the lawn, then I sent it to my trainer. “I get it now!” I told her. The motion of pulling the tarp piled high with leaves was the same as pulling that heavy tire across the gym. And now that I think about it, why has it been easier to rake leaves this year without the terrible back ache afterwards?

At the gym, we do a weighted diagonal chop exercise, and my trainer tells me to use my stomach (abdominal) muscles to strengthen my core and protect my back. I didn’t realize those are the same muscles I engage when pulling the rake across my body.

We often associate exercising in a gym with getting stronger or losing weight. And while these are goals, we don’t think about the other gym results – easier accomplishment of everyday activities. How many tasks do we do daily, weekly, monthly or even yearly that could be made easier, or even made possible to do at all, by training at the gym? Let’s explore a few!

Think about grabbing a bag of water softener salt in each hand and the trip from the car down the stairs to the basement. I know from experience that carrying and hoisting up to pour salt in has been made easier because of the farmer’s carry we do at the gym.

Ask yourself this: Do you ever get lower back aches from standing by the sink? Do you ever get a sore back from bending and picking up a full laundry basket? At the gym, you learn how to pick things up correctly, you learn how to engage your core, and you work on building leg strength to squat and lift a heavy object. I didn’t

realize those stretches on the TRX straps had helped me raise my arm high enough to reach the higher cabinet shelf, and lifting those medicine balls made it easier to put my dishes away.

I don’t like getting down on the floor! But sometimes getting things out of the bottom of a cabinet or closet requires me to get down. It used to be difficult to get back up, and after my trainer taught me the proper techniques for getting up and down off the floor, it is so much easier. This practice helped me move better and be more confident in my abilities.

Finally, we often carry uneven loads during the day, such as bags of groceries. Carrying an uneven load can cause bodies to become out of balance, so when I’m at the gym, we practice carrying uneven loads and work on using our core muscles to help maintain proper balance and good posture.

Muscle memory is powerful! The more often you make a movement right, the better chance you have of using that correct motion when you need it the most. We may know a correct movement, but the practice of it is what makes us strong and makes us use those motions consistently. By doing so, we reduce the chance of pain and increase the completion of the tasks.

I challenge you to write down everyday activities that have become more difficult as you age. And if making these tasks easier is of interest to you, check out a local gym for older adults where safe and appropriate training is a priority.

Valerie Weesner, a Ph.D., is a health services provider for psychology and a staff consultant for Motion 4 Life Fitness in Carmel. Katrina Archer contributed to the article and is a certified personal trainer at Motion 4 Life Fitness.

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55 AND BETTER Fall 2023

ATTORNEY ADVERTISEMENT

Sycamore Reserve resident lives rich life

By Ken Severson editorial@youarecurrent.com

D

on Searcy has led quite the life. He’s been a student, engineer, salesman, husband, father, grandfather, golfer and cancer survivor – the latter constituting a 30-plus year battle.

Searcy, 82, has battled several different cancers since his early 30s, including melanoma, lymphoma and, most recently, breast cancer. He was diagnosed with that cancer four years ago.

“I was first diagnosed (with cancer) when I was living in Omaha (Neb.),” Searcy said. “That was melanoma and that was Round 1. I’ve had parts removed but have undergone treatment and I take medicine to help. It seems to be working.”

Searcy and his wife Joan are residents of the Sycamore Reserve Senior Living facility in Lawrence Township in Indianapolis.

The Searcys have made it their home for the past two years and have enjoyed the living experience.

“I like it very much and am happy there,” Searcy said. “There is a variety of things to do, like picnics, bingo, going to restaurants and having entertainers come and put on a show for us.”

A native of Des Moines, Iowa, Searcy has not only had a plethora of jobs, but he’s lived in a variety of places in the Midwest.

Searcy, who studied engineering at Iowa State Uni-

Don Searcy, a cancer survivor of 50 years, lives in Sycamore Reserve Senior Living facility. (Photo courtesy of Sycamore Reserve) versity, has worked for companies like Proctor & Gamble, Hallmark Cards, Inc. and W.T. Rawleigh Products as an engineer and as a salesman.

He and his family lived in Des Moines, Kansas City, Kan., Freeport, Ill., Hoffman Estates, Ill., before settling in Fishers more than 20 years ago at the behest of his children.

“I went to work with them and also, this was where they could keep track of us,” Searcy said.

Married for 60 years, Searcy thanked his wife for standing by him.

“Joan’s a saint,” Searcy said. “Like me, she’s from Iowa and she worked as a registered nurse, though she hasn’t worked as one in years.”

Searcy and his wife had three children, identical twin sons Tim and Tom, and a daughter, Carajane.

Tim, a McCordsville resident, died at age 53 in 2018. The Searcys also have six grandchildren, one great-grandchild and another on the way.

Searcy enjoys playing golf, which has been a lifelong hobby.

“I first started when I was 5,” Searcy said. “My dad was a golfer, and he gave me a 7-iron and said, ‘Swing that club, son!’”

Besides cancer, Searcy also battles Parkinson’s disease.

Despite his recent health issues, Searcy refuses to let them define him.

“I’ve been fighting (cancer) for 50 years,” Searcy said. “I’m a walking specimen and a fighter, and I’m still here.”

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*Offer incentives are valid on purchase agreements, not contingent on the sale of another home, accepted by affiliates of Epcon Communities, for a limited number of to-be-built homes and inventory homes in specified communities. Offer incentives are subject to change or withdrawal at any time without notice. To qualify for the incentive the purchase of an inventory home must close on or before December 31, 2023 and the purchase of a to-be-built home must close within 6 months of the acceptance of the contract by Epcon’s affiliates. The incentives are available only for certain financing options and do not apply to all lenders and loans. Some conditions, limitations, and restrictions apply. Offer may vary locally. See your Sales Consultant for more details. Finance incentives may be capped based on participation in this offer, including financing through Go Mortgage, LLC, (NMLS 1018). May require at least 10% down. Rates, terms, and conditions are subject to change without notice. Some buyers may not qualify for this loan or this incentive. A Higher rate or a different loan scenario may apply based on credit score and applicant characteristics. Additional closing costs will apply. Rates fluctuate daily based on market conditions and may increase until the rate is locked. Ask for a Loan Estimate. Loans are subject to underwriting guidelines and lender approval. Go Mortgage, 4215 Worth Ave., Suite 320, Columbus OH 43219. Ohio Mortgage Residential Mortgage Lending Act Certificate of Registration Number MB.804284.000, Indiana Mortgage Lender No. 10882. Additional licensing information may be viewed at: https://gomortgage.com/licensing-information. Prospective buyers are free to shop for the best rate and terms and use any mortgage lender of Buyer’s choosing in the purchase of their Epcon home, subject to the terms of the buyer’s home purchase agreement with Epcon. The purchase price for the house will not change based upon the lender selected by buyer. Home sites in the designated communities are subject to availability. Offers may not be redeemed for cash or equivalent. This offer may not be combined with any other offers or discounts. This incentive may affect the amount of the loan for which a buyer may be eligible, check with your lender for details. Offers not valid on previously written sales contracts or contract re-writes. Community Association fees required. This offer is void where prohibited. Go Mortgage is an Equal Opportunity Lender. Some of these communities may be age-restricted. In age restricted communities no less than eighty percent of homes within the community must have at least one permanent occupant fifty-five years of age or older. Your sales consultant can provide information on whether a community is age restricted. ^No step entryways are not available for all homes or in all communities. Although all floorplans, features, illustrations, and specifications of the homes and communities are believed correct at the time of publication, the right is reserved to make changes, without notice or obligation. Windows, doors, ceilings, layout, colors, finishes and room sizes may vary depending on the options and elevations selected. This information is for illustrative purposes only and not part of a legal contract. ©2023 IP86, LLC.

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55 AND BETTER Fall 2023

Common fall foot problems Commentary by Dr. David Sullivan

A

s fall arrives and the cooler autumn temperatures approach, I will see a shift in the foot conditions prevalent in our office.

As our patients change from wearing open-toed shoes like flip-flops and sandals to closed-toed shoes and even boots, the likelihood of certain foot disorders becomes more common.

Bunions – Heredity plays some role in this condition, as your parents determine your foot shape. However, our shoes are the main factor that causes painful bunions to form.

Women are more likely to get bunions than men. Experts point to high heels as part of the problem. Squeezing toes into pumps or shoes with narrow space for toes can cause bunions or make them more prevalent and painful.

Athlete’s foot – Closed shoes are warm, dark and often moist, which is bacteria and fungus’ favorite breeding ground. Infections like athlete’s foot are common in patients who do not change their shoes and socks or do not wash their feet daily with soap and water. Another contributing factor

is that people often move their workouts indoors during the fall. If you are one of the many people who work out at a gym, always wear shower shoes in the locker room or shower areas.

Keeping feet covered will reduce the risk of these infections that spread through direct contact.

Ingrown toenails – Tight or narrow shoes can compress your feet, putting lots of pressure on your toes. Being in this position for extended periods can cause your nail to cut back into the skin surrounding the nailbed. Keep your nails trimmed short (but not too short) and cut them straight across to help minimize the risk.

If you’re dealing with any of the above issues, don’t hesitate to contact our office for an appointment.

The sooner we see the issue, the sooner we can ensure you have a comfortable fall foot season.

all straight and I am so happy! Not only do my toes Susan Rains, avid hiker and in-office flexor tenotomy hammertoe patient

look better, but they feel better!”

CHECK OUT OUR

Commentary by Linda Barnes

P

“My four toes are

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.

How mobile occupational/physical therapy can benefit seniors eople often ask us about how to deal with physical pain that they are experiencing, and if therapy could benefit them. Have you had recent surgery and need rehabilitation? Do you have chronic pain? Do you want to try to stay in your own home, but need some adaptations to stay there? Do you want to maintain your current function so you can stay at home? Don’t have a ride to your physical therapy appointment?

You do not have to be homebound to receive these and more services.

These services are covered through Medicare Part B and your secondary insurance. There is typically minimal or no cost to you.

What is mobile occupational and

It’s Just Wonderful!

physical therapy?

Occupational therapy and physical therapy are a form of rehabilitation that incorporates different techniques and procedures to help individuals to regain their motion, improve daily living activities, such as walking, balance, fine motor skills, cognitive skills, bathing/dressing, home safety, fall prevention, maintaining flexibility, etc.

How can occupational and physical therapy benefit you at home?

Our OTs and PTs are state licensed therapists, who have years of in-home therapy experience that will work with you individually in the comfort of your own home to promote independence.

Continued on Page 19

THE LATEST AND MOST COMPLETE TREATMENT OPTIONS • Achilles Tendonitis • Arthritis • Bunions • Bursitis • Diabetic Foot Care • Flat Feet • Hammertoes • Heel, Arch & Ball of Foot Pain • Ingrown or Fungal Nails • Morton’s Neuroma • Nerve Pain • Neuropathy • Pediatric Conditions • Plantar Fasciitis • Sprains, Strains & Fractures • Tired Achy Feet • Ulcer/Wound Care • Work and Sports Injuries • Warts & Skin Lesions • MLS Laser Therapy

16411 Southpark Dr., Ste B Westfield, IN 46074 (317) 896-6655 www.westfieldfoot.com David Sullivan, DPM Board Certified Foot Surgeon &W ound Specialist

55 AND BETTER Fall 2023

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ADVERTORIAL

BREAST CANCER AWARENESS MONTH: HELPING A LOVED ONE THROUGH BREAST CANCER

By Leslie Clarke, Nurse Navigator at the IU Health Joe & Shelly Schwarz Cancer Center in Carmel

If communicating via technology isn’t for you, consider sending a nice card or letter instead. This is also something they can read while undergoing treatment.

If words fail, you can have a meal delivered to your loved one’s home. This will let them know you are thinking of them and supporting them without having to explicitly say it.

O

ctober is Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

According to Leslie Clarke the National Breast Cancer Foundation, one in eight women in the United States will develop breast cancer in her lifetime, making it the most common cancer in American women, and the statistical risk increases with age. In addition, one in around 800 men in their lifetime will also be diagnosed. When a friend or family member is diagnosed, many of us feel helpless to know how to help. Here are a few ways you may support a loved one through this journey.

ASSIST WITH PRACTICAL NEEDS It may be difficult for your loved one to complete all the tasks of everyday life while undergoing treatment. Offer assistance with simple activities like gardening, grocery shopping, cooking, driving to and from appointments or dropping kids off at school. These tasks may seem small individually but will allow daily life to continue uninterrupted.

LISTEN MORE THAN YOU SPEAK Sharing the story of your “best friend’s cousin who had breast cancer” may only increase anxiety levels for your loved one. There are many forms of breast cancer, and each has a different treatment journey.

A better approach may be to ask, “Did your doctor discuss why they recommend this treatment plan?”

This also helps to serve as a review for your loved one because historically, people do not remember the majority of what they are told in the office.

OFFER EMOTIONAL SUPPORT Breast cancer can cause a person to go through a wide range of psychological and physical changes, which may cause immeasurable emotional distress.

You can offer emotional support by being present

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55 AND BETTER Fall 2023

without being asked. Do not just offer help once and expect them to call on you when they need something. Every person has different needs and certainly some people are very private. However, a phone call or visit “just to check in” will let your loved one know you are available and you care. You should still treat them as you did before diagnosis and make it clear you still see them as the same loved one they have always been.

SHOW YOU CARE, EVEN FROM A DISTANCE Most patients with cancer want loved ones to stay in touch, even if they live far away. Calling them or sending a text can make them feel supported, even if you can’t be there in person.

Create a routine of checking in between yourself and others near your loved one, or see if you are able to attend their appointments virtually.

Continue support after treatment is completed Many patients tell us that once treatment was completed, friends expressed, “That is behind you and you can get back to normal life.” We must recognize that breast cancer causes lifetime changes.

Each time a “breast cancer survivor” has a follow-up exam, an imaging test or even common aches and pains, the first thought is frequently, “Is it back?”

Knowing that you understand and are there to support them may make all the difference.

PRACTICE SELF-CARE Caregivers are so used to taking care of their loved ones that sometimes they forget to take care of themselves. It is easy to feel burnt out after some time. By taking time for yourself, you are better able to care for others.

The IU Health Joe & Shelly Schwarz Cancer Center offers several free support groups for patients, survivors and friends and family members. Visit iuhealth.org/classes-events to learn more.

Breast cancer is no match for our skill.

One of the most preferred cancer care teams in the state, our breast cancer surgeons receive 4.7 out of 5 stars from our patients.

Learn more at iuhealth.org/breastcare

©2022 IUHealth

55 AND BETTER Fall 2023

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PrimeLife Enrichment is at 1078 3rd Ave. SW in Carmel. (Photo by Ann Marie Shambaugh)

PrimeLife Enrichment’s rapidly expanding transportation program seeks drivers, funds

I

By Ann Marie Shambaugh annmarie@youarecurrent.com

n recent years, PrimeLife Enrichment senior center in Carmel has narrowed its efforts to focus on two areas that encompass “what we do best,” according to Executive Director Gary Wagner.

The nonprofit is committed to offering a variety of programs and services that foster health and community at its Carmel facility, Wagner said, and

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55 AND BETTER Fall 2023

it has greatly expanded its transportation program, which provides rides – often at no cost – to seniors in Hamilton County and a few locations beyond.

PrimeLife, which is at 1078 3rd Ave. SW in Carmel, averaged 613 rides per month from September 2022 through February 2023. Since then, it’s averaging more than 920 Wagner rides per month, and Wagner is expecting PrimeLife will provide up to 13,000 rides this

fiscal year – a more than 50 percent jump from the previous fiscal year.

PrimeLife operates the transportation program at a financial loss, Wagner said, but he believes it is a crucial service to offer in a county without many public transportation options.

“It is so critical. We’re probably committed to it stronger than ever before. If we took it away, then somehow it would fall upon the community – the Continued on Page 13

Continued from Page 12 county, city or whoever else – to figure out how we can accommodate the transportation needs of seniors,” he said. “Otherwise, they are going to be isolated, and isolation leads to depression. That’s something we try to resolve.”

Sandy Fortier, a Carmel resident who can’t drive because of poor vision, uses the PrimeLife transportation service frequently for rides to the senior center, medical appointments, a library book club and more. “(Using a ride share service) can be expensive, and not seeing well, how could I tell whether it was the Uber car?” she said. “I wouldn’t want to get into a car with a stranger.”

PrimeLife volunteer driver Randy Gomez is frequently scheduled to drive Fortier to her destinations, and they have enjoyed getting to know each other along the way.

Gomez, a Carmel resident and self-described “early retiree,” began driving for PrimeLife as a way to serve and stay connected to the community.

He said he enjoys the flexibility and opportunity to meet new people and hear their stories.

“I’ve made a lot of friends,” said Gomez, who drives twice a week and recently became a PrimeLife board member. “I have my regulars, and Sandy is one of my regulars.”

PrimeLife is looking to recruit more drivers. Some, like Gomez, choose to

volunteer their time, while others are paid $11 per hour. All drivers receive CPR training and instruction on how to operate the vans and help riders – including those in wheelchairs – safely get in and out. They must also pass a background check and have a valid driver’s license.

PrimeLife uses software to efficiently schedule rides and provide navigation for drivers. Riders must leave a voicemail with PrimeLife to request a ride, preferably at least a week in advance. With the growing number of ride requests, PrimeLife recently implemented a waitlist for the first time.

Cindy Schdembre, PrimeLife assistant director, said many other transportation programs in Hamilton County have scaled back or are too expensive for many seniors.

Schdembre “Every year, there are more and more people that fall into the category where either they can’t afford to drive or they can’t drive,” she said. “More and more seniors are living alone and don’t have someone they can ask to drive them.”

Learn more about the transportation program and other services offered by PrimeLife at PrimeLifeEnrichment.org.

ON THE COVER: Volunteer driver Randy Gomez with rider Sandy Fortier. (Photo by Ann Marie Shambaugh)

REQUEST A RIDE PrimeLife Enrichment offers door-to-door, non-emergency transportation to any Hamilton County resident 50 years or older in wheelchair accessible vans.

Schedule a ride by calling the PrimeLife transportation coordinator at 317-815-7000 extension 205, preferably at least a week in advance. Be ready to provide the following information: • First and last name of rider and any caregivers riding along • Date and time of appointment • Expected duration of appointment • Name and address of destination • Relevant information regarding ambulatory needs Rides are free if they are within 8 miles of a client’s home for those 60 and older for essential trips, which includes rides to medical appointments, pharmacies and the grocery store, although a $10 donation is appreciated. Trips beyond 8 miles cost $10 round trip, regardless of age.

Nonessential trips cost $10 within 8 miles and $16 beyond that, regardless of age. Military veterans may receive a roundtrip ride to the VA Hospital in Indianapolis or Brownsburg for $10. *Source: PrimeLife Enrichment

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55 AND BETTER Fall 2023

Super Senior continues to add to tennis titles

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

A

t 87, Jerald “J.B.” Hayes is still passionate about playing tennis at a high level.

“What I love about it is it benefits my health and I love the competition,” said Hayes, who has played at the Carmel Racquet Club for several years. “I’ve been in sports all my life and I love the competition. Then there is the social aspect. You meet great people. My wife makes friends with the other players’ wives, and I make friends with the players.”

Hayes was the captain of the men’s 85-and-older U.S. team that won the International Tennis Federation Super-Seniors World Team Championships’s Lorne Main Cup Oct. 13 in Mallorca, Spain.

The U.S. team beat Sweden in the finals on clay courts. The United States Tennis Association finances the trip for the team members in the various age groups.

“After playing all these tournaments, I prefer grass, and I only play on it once a year,” Hayes said. “On the grass, the ball doesn’t bounce up as high, and I like my groundstrokes down low because I don’t use a western grip. I use a continental grip.”

Hayes and his wife, Anne, moved from Carmel to Westfield, where they lived for approximately 20 years before moving to The Stratford in Carmel earlier this year.

Hayes has 17 gold balls for winning 17 national singles and doubles tournaments. He and partner Wilbur Jones of Shawnee, Kan., won all four national doubles titles this year — the outdoor hardcourts in Laguna Woods, Calif., in May; hardcourts indoors in Providence, R.I., in July; grass courts in Chestnut Hills, Mass. in August; and clay courts in West Palm Beach Gardens, Fla., in September.

Hayes said Jones called him in late 2022, wanting to know if Hayes wanted to partner because Jones would be competing in his first year in 85 and older.

“He’s a very good player,” Hayes said.

Then came the hard part — telling his two doubles players he wouldn’t be playing with them in 2023.

“He’s younger and I felt we could win all the national tournaments, and we did,” Hayes said.

Hayes also made it to two national singles championship matches this year on

Jerald “J.B.” Hayes pauses with this recent gold medal for being member of the winning U.S. team. (Photo by Mark Ambrogi) grass and clay courts.

“I got beat in a third-set tiebreaker in both of them, so it was not a happy ending,” he said.

There are national tournaments for players 90 and older, but not in the ITF World Team Tennis. Hayes plans to play as long as he is competitive.

“I’m fortunate with my health,” Hayes said. “I’ve had nothing replaced.”

Hayes had a torn rotator cuff when he was 79. He chose rehab instead of surgery.

“I went through rehab and then won my first gold ball the next year in the 80s,” he said. “I had to change my serve.

I can’t wind up. It’s just overhead straight through. Hopefully, I can continue next year.”

Hayes started playing in Danville on clay courts when he was 9 years old. In those days, Danville High School didn’t have a tennis team, so he only played in the summer.

“I went to Purdue and was a walk-on,” he said. “I think I went to two practices, and I was in civil engineering and decided I didn’t have time to play tennis and study, so then I didn’t play for 15 years.”

In his late 30s, he started playing in Indianapolis area tournaments. He played in his first national tournament when he was 50. He started playing in national tournaments more regularly when he retired from his civil engineering job at MacDougall Pierce Construction when he was 65.

From left, the U.S men’s 85-and-over team, Jerald “J.B.” Hayes, Wilbur Jones, Albert Lyle and Lester Sack. (Photo courtesy of Jerald Hayes)

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Therapy On Wheels, Inc. 317-332-9861 | www.therapyonwheelsinc.com | 317-893-4453 (FAX) 55 AND BETTER Fall 2023

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Warnings of ‘grandparent scams’ Submitted by Better Business Bureau

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mergency scams, sometimes called “grandparent scams,” prey on the willingness of an unsuspecting, worried individual to help friends and family in need. Often, they will impersonate their targets’ loved ones, make up an urgent situation, and plead for help … and money. Social media sites allow scammers to look up information and offer plausible stories. They may even incorporate nicknames and real travel plans into the con to convince their targets.

HOW THE SCAM WORKS

Emergency scams are about a family member or friend in a dire situation. The person gets a call, email, or social media message from someone claiming to be a distressed family member. They may say they’ve been arrested while traveling overseas, or there was an accident, medical emergency or other calamity.

They provide convincing details, such as family names and school details.

A common version is the “grandparent scam,” where the con artist contacts a grandparent claiming to be their grandchild and asking for money. The plea is so persuasive that the grandparent wires money to the scammer,

only to find out their family member was safe and sound later. This scam can also work in reverse, where the “grandparent” calls their grandchild pleading for help.

Recently, the FTC has warned that scammers are using voice-cloning techniques to imitate the voices of loved ones. The technology enables con artists to copy the voices of people close to you from videos they may find on social media or other sources. They can then use tools to imitate the voice of the loved one and have it appear to say whatever they wish in Continued on Page 17

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55 AND BETTER Fall 2023

SPRJ55189

Woodland Terrace knitting group makes hats with a purpose

By Edward Redd edward@youarecurrent.com

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hat began as a simple gathering for residents of Woodland Terrace of Carmel, a senior living home, has grown into a weekly commitment to provide warmth for families in need.

Ann Meunier, the daughter of Nancy Nesbit, one of the senior residents, organized a group that meets every week to knit winter hats. The hats are donated to the Second Presbyterian Church, 7700 N Meridian St., Indianapolis. They are part of the church’s Christmas With Our Northside Neighbors program, an annual initiative that provides families with food, gifts, clothing and more during the holiday season.

Meunier, a Carmel resident, said for quite some time, her mother and other residents of Woodland Terrace expressed a desire to form a knitting group for the senior community. In December of 2022, Meunier organized weekly knitting sessions.

“I found an easy hat pattern that they could do, and we would knit these hats for charity,” Meunier said.

Initially, the hats were donated to the Northside Food Pantry at Second Presbyterian Church. The residents, however, became so passionate about their knitting that by March of 2023, they had produced more hats than the church could donate.

Pleased with how well the hats were received by families, the church saved the hats for this winter’s program. The knitting group has continued to meet each week to craft the gifts.

“These ladies have gotten so into hat-making,” Meunier said. “A lot of them hadn’t knit for a long time, and now we’ve made almost 200 and donated them.”

Besides helping those in need, the weekly knitting sessions have helped enrich the lives of the residents.

They find joy in each other’s company and a sense of accomplishment as they knit.

Nesbit, 93, said knitting is a rewarding pastime that she’s enjoyed since her college years. She also enjoys knitting socks and prayer shawls.

“It’s very calming and satisfying when you get all done,” Nesbit said. “You’ve accomplished something.”

Phyllis Goodman, 87, said knitting helps residents stay active mentally and physically. Although she can’t knit like she used to, she contributes in her own unique way.

“They tried to teach me how to start, but my fin-

Continued from Page 16 a call. Some voice cloning efforts may be crude, and others very sophisticated, either way, this adds to this scam’s confusing and frightening aspect.

Tips to spot this scam: • Resist the urge to act immediately, no matter

(Above) Woodland Terrace in Carmel resident Susan Farrell, left, chats with Nancy Nesbit while she knits. (Right) Ann Meunier demonstrating how to weave a pompom to the top of a knitted hat. (Photo by Edward Redd) gers just will not do it,” Goodman said. “I try to help them by using all of the scraps and doing the rolling.”

Meunier said the Northside Food Pantry serves approximately 800 families each month. The Christmas With Our Northside Neighbors program assists approximately 120 families, totaling approximately 600 individuals each year.

how dramatic the story. Verify the situation with other family and friends, but first hang up or close the message and call your loved one directly. Don’t call the phone number provided by the caller or caller ID. Ask questions that would be hard for an impostor to answer correctly.

• Know what your family members are sharing on-

line. You may not have control over your family’s social media accounts but familiarize yourself with what they share online.

• Don’t wire any money if there is any doubt about the call. If a person wires money and later realizes it is a fraud, the police must be alerted.

To report a scam, visit bbb.org/scamtracker.

55 AND BETTER Fall 2023

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Applegate & Dillman Elder Law receives Best of Carmel Award Submitted by Applegate & Dillman

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55 AND BETTER Fall 2023

pplegate & Dillman Elder Law has been selected for the 2023 Best of Carmel Award in the Elder Law Attorney category by the Carmel Award Program.

Each year, the Carmel Award Program identifies companies that it believes have achieved exceptional marketing success in their local community and business category. These are local companies that enhance the positive image of small business through service to their customers and our community. These exceptional companies help make the Carmel area a great place to live, work and play.

“This town really rallies behind their small businesses and supports them wholeheartedly,” said Lisa Dillman, managing attorney and owner. “We couldn’t be prouder to be a part of Carmel’s flourishing community and to help residents plan for their future.”

By participating in multiple community events, advertising in local publications and having a long-standing relationship with the town, Applegate & Dillman Elder Law exemplifies the qualifications for the Best of Carmel Award.

Various sources of information were gathered and analyzed to choose the winners in each category. The 2023 Carmel Award Program focuses on quality, not quantity. Winners are determined based on the information gathered both internally by the Carmel Award Program and data provided by third parties.

Applegate & Dillman Elder Law helps clients and their families plan for the legal, financial and health care challenges associated with aging. By working with clients to develop a holistic plan including estate planning, Medicaid planning, asset protection, Life Care Planning and many more services, our clients can enter into their later years with peace of mind.

Learn more about Applegate & Dillman Elder Law or schedule a free consultation by calling 317-492-9569 or visiting Applegate-Dillman.com.

Procedure helps Carmel resident live with essential tremor

By Mark Ambrogi mark@youarecurrent.com

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am Scahill found her essential tremor was interfering with many of the things she enjoys.

Essential tremor is a neurological disease that causes uncontrolled shaking in different parts of the body.

“My essential tremor started when I was 30, which is a little rare because normally they don’t start until your 40s or 60s,” the 72-year-old Carmel resident said. “However, I have what they call familial tremor, which is inherited. My grandmother had a tremor, so did my uncle and my mom. My tremors started in my head, neck and voice.”

But the situation changed in July 2022, when the tremor went into her hands.

“That was a problem because I like to sew, I like to scrapbook,” she said. “I wear contacts. Fine motor skills were difficult to do because my hand would shake.”

Scahill did research and learned about the Neuravive procedure, a non-invasive, focused ultrasound procedure that is FDA approved and Medicare covered. She consulted with Dr. Jill Donaldson, a neurosurgeon who practices in the Community Health Network.

“She is one of the only neurosurgeons within several surrounding states that does the procedure,” said Scahill, a retired medical assistant. “I felt blessed that I qualified. It’s something that has affected me for 40 years, and to live with that every day was difficult for certain tasks. To go out socially, it was embarrassing sometimes because I would shake, and people would think it was nervousness when actually it was the tremor.”

Scahill said her mantra was the Chinese proverb that a journey of 1,000 miles begins with a single step.

“So, I took that step,” she said.

Scahill said research shows that 5 percent of the population worldwide has essential tremor, and 10 million people in the U.S. have it.

“Sometimes it’s misdiagnosed as Parkinson’s,” she said.

Scahill had the procedure performed in March.

“The day of the surgery they had to completely shave my head for the brain ablation,” Scahill said.

“You can’t do it ahead of time because of the ultrasound waves. It was an amazing experience, and I

Continued from Page 9 Some advantages include the following but are not limited to: • Avoid taxing effort when leaving your home • Avoid waiting rooms • Avoid driving to the clinic

“There’s just been a little slippage, but Dr. Donaldson said right up front that some people have to have it done a second time,” Ed said.

Scahill said Donaldson only does one side of the brain, choosing the dominant side.

“It was the best thing I’ve ever done for myself,” she said.

Scahill said the process will be quicker and easier the second time because she has already qualified for it. The procedure takes approximately 2 hours.

“There was some swelling, and I had to ice my face several days and I had two black eyes,” she said.

Scahill said essential tremor often get worse with age.

“Caffeine makes it worse,” she said. “Stress, fatigue, illness and temperature change affect it.

When we go from warmer temperatures to colder, I’m affected.”

Donaldson said the procedure involves burning a tiny hole in the thalamus part of the brain on the other side of the dominant hand.

“It makes the tremor go away,” she said. “They do have five-year data on it, and one year out from the procedure, the tremor control is still very good for 90 percent of the patients. Five years ago, it was still good in 73 percent of patients. It definitely lasts longer than the older ablation procePam Scahill had a procedure to help with her essential tremor. (Photo dures and it’s less invasive (than) courtesy of Pam Scahill) to have a pacemaker-type battery or something like that.” would do it again.”

Donaldson said the average age for someone havScahill said the procedure is often repeated. ing the procedure is 75.

“I’m thinking about having it done the second time “If someone is 50, I usually tell them they’ll be next year to tweak things,” Scahill said. “I’ve noticed happier with a deep-brain stimulator at this point,” a few changes, nothing that keeps me from everyday she said. “We know it was going to be more durable. tasks.”

Sometimes people know they need to do it on both Her husband, Ed Scahill, said the first four months sides.” were perfect.

• Same therapist with each visit • Appointments are built around your schedule • No homebound restrictions If you have arthritic pain, chronic back pain, need post-surgical rehabilitation, adaptive equipment needs, chronic medical condition, we can help. We also provide maintenance therapy once you have reached your goals. This will allow you to maintain

your level of independence and stay in your own home. Please call our office 317 332-9861 for more information. Or have your physician fax a referral to 317-893-4453.

Linda Barnes is an occupational therapist and owner/president of Therapy On Wheels. For more on Therapy on Wheels services, call 317-332-9861.

55 AND BETTER Fall 2023

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55 AND BETTER Fall 2023