Senior Confidential

SENIOR October/November 2015

BABY BOOMERS:

Serving S.E.N.M. and W. Texas

Confidential

MAKING A DIFFERENCE IN LEA COUNT Y

Where to find help when you need it most IN THIS ISSUE: THE SHOCKING RESULTS OF SERIOUS NEEDS OF LEA COUNTY SENIOR CITIZENS

Featuring District Chief Judge Bill and Cindy Shoobridge Our Own Boomer Power Couple

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On the cover BILL & CINDY SHOOBRIDGE

Surveys of Senior Needs Locally What does FDA say about some of the drugs you are being given?

What are they? How you can take control of your health by being informed

Boomers Making A Difference District Chief Judge Bill Shoobridge and Cindy Shoobridge The Baby Boomer Couple of the Month

Stories about you -- your friends and neighbors

Senior Confidential is a publication of Seniors Standing Strong, a non profit organization.

Editorial Comments

Write us at: P.O. Box 770, Hobbs, NM 88241

Are you letting someone come into your family home or the home of a loved one to offer care, but unknowingly bringing a criminal into your home instead?

If you have a special person you would like to honor, or have a story to tell that will help others, please email us.

Publication dates are August, October, December, February, April, and June.

If you would like to advertise in Senior Confidential Magazine, please send request to the email listed below.

Why you should background check caregivers locally

The Angel Who Lives Next Door Norma Chanley exemplifies the true meaning of caring deeply for our seniors, and acts on it

Eyes - Hearing - Teeth Three issues for seniors that impact quality of life. Find out who can make your life better

Hunger One in seven local seniors eating two or less meals a day

Email: hannajudy@icloud.com

Entertainment and Activities and The Hanna List 4

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“I am deeply honored to represent and serve the Senior Citizens of Hobbs, and I applaud the wisdom and vision you bring to our community.”

Hobbs Mayor, Sam D. Cobb

_____Sam Cobb, Mayor

HAPPY 90TH BIRTHDAY, S.G. COBB When S.G. Cobb, Jr. and his wife Dorothy moved to Hobbs in 1959, the town had no idea this family would have such an enormous impact on the community, state, and world in years to come. S.G. Cobb, Jr. (below) just celebrated his 90th birthday. Friends say S.G. loves to talk politics, especially from years past, and they figure this iconic person will continue to share the knowledge he has with all people for many years to come. S.G. is a WWII Veteran, having served in the Naval Air Corps. during trying times in our history. He was a master of many trades over the years, including ranching, farming, cattle, wholesale gasoline, politics, propane, property acquisition and development.

As Manager of a National Farm Loan Association, Cobb was recognized as someone who was desperately needed by the Texas Highway Department to determine right of ways for the Intestate Highway System (a Federal mandate), so he rose to the occasion and handled their needs. Locally, there are many who remember home delivery via Rich Food Plan, S.G.’s business. Families would fill up their freezers with meat and plan meals accordingly. Rich evolved into RMS Foods, Inc. which is one of only a handful of external manufacturers in Kraft/Heinz’s network. RMS produces 100% of all of the Boca products sold worldwide... from right here in Hobbs, NM. Our Hobbs Mayor Sam Cobb runs RMS in the worldwide market, and at the end of the day, S.G. Cobb can relax and enjoy knowing that his expertise has touched, and continues to touch many lives.

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RANDOM ACTS OF KINDNESS TOWARD OUR SENIORS

NORMA CHANLEY

FEATURED BOOMER “ANGEL” FOR THOUGHTFUL ACTS OF KINDNESS It is quite probable that you have a neighbor who is up in years, perhaps living alone, sad to be eating alone... or not eating at all - only wishing that someone would stop by for a minute to say hello or share a hug.

Norma Chanley doesn’t let a day pass without thinking of her neighbor, Kana Burnam. Norma is Kana’s go to person if she has a question or needs help. The best gift is that Norma is checking on her and taking several meals a week while just encouraging and being a friend. Norma, Heidi’s sons, Canyon and Rocco don’t forget the special occasions either, like this homemade birthday

surprise for Kana. Norma’s daughters, Jordan and Heidi both pour a lot of love into her with visits and hugs. She adores them both. Kana has the special treatment from Jordan, Norma’s daughter, a three year vet. and Allstar Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader. The Barton Chanley family of siblings (photo below) has a special place in their hearts for our senior population, and that comes from being taught at an early age to respect and help our seniors, and put some sunshine in their day. Thank you Norma!

You are Kana’s angel.

ORGANIZATIONS THAT MAY HELP YOU WITH A TURKEY FOR THANKSGIVING Isaiah’s Kitchen will give away about 110 turkeys the third Tuesday of November (November 24th) You must have filled out an application for food boxes and turkey prior to that time. Turkeys are not cooked.

Hobbs Senior Center will also have turkeys to give away. Check with your Senior Centers to learn more about how you might partake of these offerings.

Contact the Salvation Army for information on their food offerings

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ENTERTAINMENT ZIA PARK RACETRACK & CASINO

RACING SEASON Continues through December 15th Racing Saturday, Sunday, Monday and Tuesdays - 12:15 PM post time every day.

CASINO HOURS OF OPERATION Monday-Thursday: 10:00 am to 1:00 am

Friday: 10:00 am to 3:00 am Saturday: 9:00 am to 3:00 am Sunday: 9:00 am to 2:00 am

ENTERTAINMENT CONDOLEEZZA RICE Jack Maddox Distinguished Lecture Series is scheduled for November 10th, at 7:00 pm at Tydings Auditorium Featuring Former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice.

Lea County Museum Fall, 2015 Programs All Programs & Presentations Free at LCM Oct. 3:

Poets Charles Behlen and Glen Sorestad 7:00 p.m.

LCM Town Hall, 114 E. Central, Lovington Oct. 9: Outdoor Country Dance, Russ Key Band 7:00 p.m.

LCM Pavilion (East Side LCM Commercial Hotel Building) Oct. 22: LCM Fall Fun Festival All Museum Buildings Open Tours, Games, Celebrations 4:00-6:30 p.m.

Lovington Town Square Oct. 31: Halloween at the Museum Afternoon & Evening Nov. 19: Lea County Sports Hall of Fame Induction and LCM Annual Fundraising Gala 7 p.m. Lea County Event Center Hobbs Nov. 26-28: Closed for Thanksgiving Holidays Dec. 7: Christmas at the Museum Dec. 17: Movies at the Museum 7:00 p.m.

LCM Town Hall (Jim Harris Photo Left)

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EDITORIAL COMMENT

WHAT DO WE HEAR FROM AREA

“About Senior Confidential”

SENIORS AND THEIR

There is no magazine just for senior citizens in the geographic area that focuses on needs or challenges that directly impact our senior citizens. Through listening to seniors and family members, Seniors Standing Strong, a nonprofit organization realized that there is much work to be done to educate seniors, relatives, friends, and caregivers so all seniors receive the respect, dignity, and equality they richly deserve.

We share some of the comments made by seniors and their families in the immediate area, not to cast a negative light on those who fail seniors, but to shine a light on how seniors can be treated better.

COMMENTS FROM THE AREA

FAMILIES TODAY Treva West (Photo Left) “MY MOM WASN’T SHOWERED IN SEVEN WEEKS AND WAS FED TV DINNERS REGULARLY DESPITE THE FACT I WAS PROVIDING THE CAREGIVER $600 PER MONTH FOR GROCERIES” “I don’t live here, but my mom does. I felt good that I had taken steps to provide my mom with someone who comes in six days a week to help her and make sure she is taken care of. She loves living at home, is in

“We noticed that my mother’s pain medication was disappearing, and at one point believe her pills were being replaced with something else. Be vigilant and report missing or replaced pills so the account can be red flagged for necessary assessment and investigation.”

her 80s, and can do most things for herself. Having a

“Why is my mother getting lunch meat sandwiches for dinner in a facility we pay thousands of dollars to for care and good nutrition?”

caregiver couldn’t remember. I asked the caregiver

“It appears that the CNA’s at one facility do not communicate between shifts, and we have to repeatedly be on hand to remind each shift that our mom has to be moved in a certain manner per doctor’s orders, or, she could suffer serious injury to the healing process.”

caregiver with her just gave me comfort being so far away and not having the opportunity to come visit but once a month. When I returned recently, I asked the caregiver when my mother had a bath last. The when the last time was that my mother went to the hairdresser. The caregiver couldn’t remember, but the hairdresser remembered the last time was weeks earlier when I took her, and said the caregiver had not scheduled any further appointments. I was unable to find some of my mom’s financial documents, and became seriously concerned.

“A private business van driver who picked up my mom at her home regularly to go for dialysis found her in the floor one day, called me, didn’t call for immediate help from anyone who could help her up, and just drove away and left her there in the floor before anyone arrived.”

I encourage you to do a background check on anyone

“We found our Mom critically over medicated, almost in a stupor. We moved her immediately, and the next facility got her back to normal.”

wherever your parents are staying -- at home, or in

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you bring into your home to care for your family.”

I am a past graduate of Hobbs High School, and know that many of my friends are helping take care of their parents. I urge you to be vigilant and visible a facility. You can make a difference in the quality of life, and happiness in their golden years.

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“I can’t afford to go to the dentist, Local Baby Boomers Entering The Medicare System at 65 therefore, Encountering The Reality That Dental Care Is Not Covered my quality of Baby Boomers entering the Medicare System at 65 information (those who life is sadly here say they are shocked to learn that they are out don’t qualify will be told so affected. You of luck when it comes to dental care. A recent Seniors during the call), The referral Standing Strong Survey revealed that 1 in 6 of our area coordinator will share the have to carry seniors surveyed are going without dental care. The information about a person problem they say, is that “most of us are on Medicare, tentatively accepted with a private pay for and Medicare doesn’t cover most dental care, dental volunteer dentist. You will be these needs, procedures, or supplies, like cleanings, fillings, tooth notified of the dentist’s name extractions, dentures, dental plates, or other dental and phone number and have insurance devices.” Medicare Part A (Hospital Insurance) will you will be responsible for that covers pay for certain dental services that you get when you’re scheduling an appointment them, or be in a hospital. Part A can pay for inpatient hospital care for an examination. Final if you need to have emergency or complicated dental acceptance into the program flat broke and procedures, even though the dental care isn’t covered. will only be made after on Medicaid A substantial number of seniors say they can’t afford the clinical examination to get any to go, and at the end of the day, they are living with when the specific treatment aching teeth, lost teeth, inability to eat, and a heartfelt needs are established. Upon help. Medicare wish that they could just have a filling or a cleaning so receipt, your application will doesn’t help they could enjoy life. be placed on a waiting list. out on the Those applying are asked to There may be some help for our seniors through State be patient; due to program areas where we of NM Donated Dental Services. According to the limitations, applications are foundation, dentists throughout the State of NM have not processed as soon as need it most.”

BAD TEETH

volunteered to provide comprehensive dental care at received. The referral coordinator will contact you no charge to people of all ages who, because of a serious when your application comes up for review. disability, advanced age, or medical problems, lack adequate income to pay for needed dental care. There Applications can be found at: http://www. are no rigid financial eligibility requirements. COST: There is generally no cost to qualifying individuals; nmdentalfoundation.org/patient_application.aspx however, people in a position to pay for part of their DONATED DENTAL SERVICES; care may be encouraged to do so, especially when P.O. BOX 16854, ALBUQUERQUE, NM 87191 laboratory work is involved. Applicants complete, PHONE: (505) 298-7206 OR TOLL FREE AT sign, and return the application either by mail, email (866) 263-0671 FAX (505) 554-3836 or fax. When your application comes up for review, email: lpaul@nmdental.org a referral coordinator will call to obtain additional Judy Hanna is the founder of Seniors Standing Strong, a 501(c)3 organization. Senior Confidential is a publication of Seniors Standing Strong. The organization welcomes donations and advertisers so we can help seniors. We are not charging for the magazine in order to reach as many seniors as possible, so your contributions help us touch more lives by helping us fund this worthy publication.

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ORDER YOUR COPY Lottery Scam Targets TODAY!!

Seniors Judy Hanna’s internationally selling Linda Gist, Vice President of book, Should I Be Afraid? is available in Retail Marketing at Lea County paperback at Barnes State Bank says the lottery and Noble Stores, scam is one she sees often here Amazon, barnesandnoble.com, and Ingram also in Nook and Kindle, and More and more these days, it seems will soon be available at Hasting’s. like senior citizens are winning the lottery. Except that they aren’t.

WOULD YOU LIKE TO DONATE TO SENIORS Not only are they not winners, but STANDING STRONG? they can end up losing thousands Our mission is to educate and inform seniors of dollars in scams that tap into about choices in the area for assistance, to everyone’s desire to win a contest. teach others the importance of respecting rights, equality, and dignity. Your donations will help sponsor magazines for seniors.

P.O. Box 770, Hobbs, NM 88240

It typically begins with a phone call, or a letter, informing the senior they have won a lottery. A check follows with instructions to deposit it and then wire a specific amount of money to cover taxes or fees, or other expenses. Once the money has been sent, it cannot be retrieved.

While the lottery scam is the most common one seen by Linda Gist, vice president of retail operations at Lea County State Bank, she said there are other variations, including being told you have won a new car. But the scammers are always insistent about the urgency of sending the money to cover the “fees” right away and by a method such as a wire transfer, in which the money can’t be recovered.

“These people are relentless; sometimes they call the senior many times a day,” said Gist. “They pull the seniors in close and pretend to be their friend.” To avoid becoming a victim to these scams, Gist reminds people that to win a lottery, you must first enter it. Therefore, if you haven’t purchased a lottery ticket, or have any kind of receipt indicating that you entered the contest, then it’s likely you have not won anything.

“Also, when you win a lottery, you don’t have to send a fee to claim your money,” she said.

Other warning signs include: t Any lottery or sweepstakes that requires an upfront fee; t If you receive a check in the mail as a prize in a contest with the requirement that you send back a portion to cover “fees, taxes or expenses”. t It’s important to remember that you are responsible for the funds in a check you deposit into your bank account, even if the check turns out to be fraudulent. t Typically, the person on the phone tells the senior not to tell anyone about their prize money, but that is exactly what you should do, before you do anything else.

“We see so many of these scams, and if you come to us first, we can help you determine whether it is legitimate, and help you avoid losing your money,” said Gist.

“If it sounds too good to be true, it is too good to be true.”

–Nancy Harbert, Independent Writer for Lea County State Bank

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Why Alberthia Campbell Personally Sent A Floral Arrangement or a Flower To Your Loved One’s Funeral Back Alberthia

in

th

1930s,

said, “a visitor came to

my Baptist Church. As she was about to leave, she quietly said, what an ugly floral arrangement that is in the entry to the church.” The woman and Alberthia decided to go to Wacker’s and get some flowers. They created a beautiful arrangement for the church, and as quickly as the visitor had come, she was never to be seen again. This experience, the smiles it created, and the epiphany that she had a flair for creating arrangements, led Alberthia to spend the next 44 years as a florist. It didn’t stop there. Alberthia realized that sometimes when people passed away, there were funerals at which noone sent a single flower. This

that flowers from Alberthia were nestled among other

bothered her, so over the past 44 years, you might

bouquets... or simply sitting alone on a table. With

check your flower list of who sent flowers to your

morning coffee in hand, Albertha starts every day by

loved one’s funeral, and there is high probabability

calling funeral homes all over the area to see if she

New Mexico State Senator Gay Kernan District 42

needs to create a smile during sad times for someone, and make it a little easier for families. Alberthia is 85 years old, will retire soon and close her shop in Hobbs. Who will make sure everyone has a flower as she has? A rough estimate is that she has personally sent 30,000 flowers out of the goodness of her heart to people she has never met because of what she calls, “her God Given Talent that was discovered in a

CELEBRATING OUR SENIOR CITIZEN POPULATION ggkern@valornet.com

505-629-8081

church one day by a stranger and the transformation of an ugly floral arrangement.”

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A CALL FOR HELP FROM CHURCHES AND COMMUNITIES to the severity of need in the county. Vista Point Church food ministry is helping fullfill some needs A recent Seniors Standing Strong Survey indicated by delivering many Wednesday night meals to senior that one in five Lea County Seniors surveyed are citizens. First United Methodist Church has a food eating two or less meals a day, some going hungry. bank for seniors.

These senior citizens are 60 and older, and live mainly in their homes and do get out occasionally. OUR CHALLENGE TO YOU: WILL YOU OR Many say, they are fine, but their legs are bad so they can’t spend an hour on their feet in the grocery store YOUR GROUP HELP FEED A SENIOR? buying groceries, certainly can’t unload them when If every organization in Lea County set aside one they get home, and then, to stand and cook a meal is day, one evening, one Saturday or Sunday afternoon enough for their legs to give out. Others say they have to collect and deliver a basket of food, a hamburger, difficulty paying for groceries and need help. a shake, or a hot meal to senior citizens in the area,

ONE IN FIVE SENIOR CITIZENS IN LEA COUNTY EAT TWO OR LESS MEALS A DAY

reports that in August, 1,893 their lives, health, and happiness could be plates were served, and approximately 20% of changed forever. Seniors Standing Strong will help residents served are age 60 or older, a testiment you get the word out.

Isaiah’s Kitchen

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87 YEAR OLD HOBBS WOMAN’S SPECIAL CONTRIBUTION THE STAINED GLASS WINDOW Mona Dodson was one of many members of Asbury Methodist Church years ago. When the church was to be closed, Mona was instrumental in the stained glass window being donated to St. Paul’s Methodist. Now that St. Paul’s has closed, what will happen to the stained glass window that has served two churches for over seven decades? Recent information suggests that the stained glass window will travel to a Methodist Church in Las Cruces.

A LITTLE GIRL GETS A HOME Mona’s late husband owned Testers, Inc., and passed away years ago due to a brain tumor. She survived breast cancer after a radical mastectomy, raised four children including her daughter Treva, the little girl who needed a home more than 60 years ago, traveled extensively to Ireland, England, and took a tour of the South. She still lives in Hobbs at home, but her dementia doesn’t keep her from sharing her wit. Two of her favorite sayings are, “If you get where you can’t laugh, you may as well lay down and die” ... and “if somebody needs help, you can make room!”

RESIDENTS AND STAFF AT COUNTRY COTTAGE RECENTLY ATTENDED AN OUTDOOR CELEBRATION Jeanne Ward Photo

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THE COVER STORY SUCCESSFUL BABY BOOMERS

BILL AND CINDY SHOOBRIDGE THE SUCCESSFUL STORY OF HARD WORK AND GIVING BACK TO COMMUNITY

District Judge Bill, and Cindy Shoobridge have been married and lived in Hobbs for over 38 years. They both bring unique expertise and a never ending helping hand to the area. Judge Shoobridge is the Chief Judge of the 5th Judicial District. He graduated from the Indiana University Law School in 1974, and received a Gubernatorial appointment to the bench in 2008.

He has been recognized as one of America’s Outstanding Lawyers. Judge Shoobridge was a Catholic School 4th8th grade school teacher in Indiana.

He has been active in local community and volunteer organizations, and rarely

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misses participating in charity golf tournaments for fun, and a good cause to help others. Over years past, he has volunteered as a Little League Manager/ Coach/President. He coached Boys & Girls Club basketball and sponsored many youth athletic teams. He knows the meaning of hard work to achieve goals. He worked his way through college and law school as a brick layer and waiter. He curretly stays in shape by working out at the New Mexico Junior College five days a week. Cindy was born and raised in Albuquerque and relocated to Hobbs with her husband 38 years ago. Her background prior to real estate included working in the position of office manager and legal assistant for her husband’s law firm before he became District Judge in 2008. Cindy is no stranger to helping make Lea County a better place to live. She gives of her time to serve on the board for Realtors Association of New Mexico Board of

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Directors, is past board member of the Hobbs Association of Realtors, Inc., Lea County Road Advisory Committee, Realtors, Big Brothers Big Sisters, Hobbs Literary Club, Past President of The Foundation For the Preservation of Music in Lea County, Lea County Judicial Complex Building Committee and is also involved with My Power Mentoring for 5th & 6th grade girls, and coached youth soccer in the past. She is also a member of Hobbs, Lovington, and Eunice Chambers of Commerce, Hispano Chamber of Commerce, and Lovington Economic Development.

She also completed the Hobbs Police Department Citizens Police Academy in 2011. She has earned the real estate prestigious Million Dollar Producer Award several times and Top Producer which comes with long, tedious hours of work sometimes seven days a week.

As an associate real estate broker, she specializes in commercial and residential properties, land, ranch and farms. Cindy enjoys golf, traveling with husband, and hanging out with grandchildren. Bill and Cindy raised two sons, Matt & Mark and are proud grandparents of two granddaughters, Layla and Jaeda and grandson, Devin.

SPECIAL ACTIVITIES FOR SENIORS SENIORS CAN SWIM AND GET FIT FOR PENNIES A DAY Del Norte Fitness Center is located at 1503 West Calle Sur in Hobbs and seniors who swim there say it is a wonderful experience to have a pool that has scheduled times for senior citizens. Del Norte staff said, “If a senior wants to try it out, and see if they like it, they only pay $4.00 for the day.” A membership for fitness and swim classes is $19.40/person, and that covers a four month membership.

SWIMNASTICS AT DEL NORTE FOR SENIORS Swimnastics is one hour each session, and is held from 9-10 Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, and the second class is held Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 10-11. Some seniors attend one session and others enjoy both sessisons.

FITNESS CLASSES FOR SENIORS Fitness classes are held at Del Norte Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 10:30 - 11:30. Contact Del Norte for more information at 392-6476.

SOUTHWEST SYMPHONY Friday, November 13, 2015 Crosswinds Community Church, Hobbs NM 7:00 pm Bert Dalton Quartet “Time Out for Brubeck” “Time Out For Brubeck” is a program of all Dave Brubeck music played by celebrated jazz pianist, arranger, educator, and producer Bert Dalton. The performance will include the same instrumentation of the original Brubeck quartet - piano, bass, drums, and alto saxophone and the same “joie de vie” as the real thing! Dalton, originally from Chicago, has resided in Santa Fe for over 20 years where he is the Music Director for the National Dance Institute of New Mexico Arts. www.bertdalton.com

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“As Mayor of Lovington, I am proud to work with the Senior Citizens of this great city.

They are a true inspiration.” ~Mayor R. Scott Gandy

THERE IS A DANCE EVERY FRIDAY NIGHT AT HOBBS SENIOR CENTER Call for more information

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MEET SOME LOCAL MEDICAL PROFESSIONALS

Sondra Hutson, RN, MSN, CNP, ONP-C is a nurse practitioner at Kymera Independent Physicians in Hobbs

Patrick Dunn, RN, MSN, MHA is the Chief Nursing Officer at Lea Dr. Daniel Good is an Regional Medical Center He joined ophthalmologist in Hobbs. He the Executive Leadership Team at Lea Regional in February of 2012 received his medical degree from Texas Tech University Health after serving for 4 years as the Sciences Center School of Medicine Associate Chief Nursing Officer for and has been in practice for 21 Good Samaritan Hospital in San years.

Jose, California

CNA Cintia Chavira and CNA Alexis Delacruz work at Nor Lea Hospital in Lovington, and deeply enjoy the work they do with a goal to always put a smile on the faces of their patients October/November 2015 y SENIOR CONFIDENTIAL MAGAZINE

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PLATELET CONTAINING TRANSFUSIONS: FDA REPORT

CMS/Medicare high-risk FOR SENIORS medication list

Sources: FDA and Medicare

Occurrence & risk factors for potentially fatal bleeding disorder called posttransfusion purpura (PTP) among the U.S. elderly patients The study shows a substantially increased risk of PTP with platelet-containing transfusions, supports the importance of prior alloimmunizations (e.g., transfusions, transplantations) in the occurrence of PTP, and suggests the significance of underlying health conditions in the development of PTP. The study findings also suggest higher risk of PTP occurrence with increasing number of blood units transfused, especially among elderly individuals ages 80 and above.

CMS/MEDICARE HIGH RISK FOR SENIOR CITIZENS Press Release: carisoprodol (SOMA) chlorzoxazone (PARAFON FORTE) cyclobenzaprine (FLEXERIL, AMRIX, FEXMID) metaxalone (SKELAXIN) methocarbamol (ROBAXIN) orphenadrine (NORFLEX) Can cause anticholinergic side effects: worsened cognition and behavioral problems (especially in dementia); urinary retention or incontinence; confusion sedation; weakness; questionable efficacy (at lower doses).

Study states type of transfusion can cause t Significant decrease in level of blood-clot-forming platelets t Occurs within 5-10 days after blood transfusion t Potentially fatal bleeding from mucous membranes, gastrointestinal and urinary tracts, and intracranial hemorrhage In summary, physicians should be aware of the potential for PTP occurrence in elderly individuals, who are more likely to be critically ill, with prior alloimmunizations and a potentially higher prevalence of underlying risk factors for PTP.

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Press Release: The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) has identified the drugs listed here as posing a higher risk to patients, especially to seniors. chloral hydrate (SOMNOTE) LUNESTA zaleplon (SONATA) zolpidem (AMBIEN/CR, INTERMEZZO, EDLUAR, ZOLPIMIST) Can cause cognitive impairment, delirium, unsteady gait, syncope, falls, accidents, fractures, tolerance, delirium, risk of overdose (narrow therapeutic window - chloral hydrate).

THE HANNA LIST

Do You Need Help With Food?

Breakfast is served Monday - Friday free at Isaiah’s Kitchen from 9 - 10:30. It’s a good, hot breakfast that varies daily with foods such as biscuits & gravy, eggs, oatmeal, toast, sausage, coffee, juice. Go to 304 W. Harden.

Isaiah’s Kitchen serves free lunch daily

from 10:30 - 2:00, and Founder Rene Madron says you will love the fellowship, company, and food! On Fridays, the kitchen prepares take out boxes with a hot meal in it for you to take home.

Sign up at Isiah’s Kitchen to receive a free

foodbox on the 3rd Tuesday of every month.

Just go in now, fill out a quick application form consisting of 3-4 lines and you will be eligible to pick up a food box (enough for five meals or more) on the 3rd Tuesday. Be aware, these boxes are first come first served and you must pick them up. Someone will load them for you, and if you can’t stand in line, there is a place for you to sit and wait for your box.

First Methodist Church. 200 E. Snyder in Hobbs has applications for their food pantry.

Depending on supplies and acceptance, the recipients would receive a free box of food on the 3rd week of each month preceeded by a postcard from the church.

Salvation Army in Hobbs feeds and clothes more than 2,500 people per month.

Enjoy lunch at your senior center.

FOOD FOR SENIORS Vista Pointe Church food ministry group delivers senior meals every Wednesday during the school year. The ministry is run through Vista Pointe Church kitchen. Contact the church office for more information.

City

Meals on Wheels Program is available for homebound elderly citizens of Hobbs and surrounding Lea County. This program is to address the elderly based on need. The priority is to serve meals to those who are ill and unable to prepare meals for themselves due to health problems. These meals are delivered five days a week by volunteers and staff and are available on a donation basis.

GLASSES FOR SENIORS Do you need help with glasses? Not able to see well with the glasses you have?

Contact Hobbs Downtown Lions, or a Lions Club in your community. In Hobbs, call Ruth at the Faith In Action Office. She is the glasses chair for Hobbs Downtown Lions Club. Phone: 393-7374.

MEDICATIONS FOR SENIORS Do you need help with affording your medications?

Call Faith In Action at 393-7374 and ask for an application form. Faith In Action has helped thousands of Lea Countians with medications.

WILL RUN ERRANDS FOR SENIORS

Do you need someone to help you out on occasions?

Need someone to take you to the grocery store, shopping, out to pay bills? How about someone to run those errands for you? Debra Vanlandingham is a wonderful, dependable, and caring person who has lived in Hobbs for decades. Her fees to take you or run errands for you are affordable for senior citizens. A good example is $10.00 $15.00 for her to take you to WalMart for an hour.Call Debra at 441-5044

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A VOLUNTEER WHO CAN HELP SENIOR CITIZENS WITH YARD WORK OR SIMPLE REPAIRS Jeff Vanlandingham works for a major oil related company.

On weekends or after work, he wants to help seniors with limited yard work or repairs.

There are so many like the 80 year old woman who just asked that someone come clean out her flowerbeds, a 78 year old who needs weeds cleared so she can walk out to take her trash out, a 90 year old who would give anything in the world to have some trash hauled off.

Jeff said he would like to do some volunteer work to help seniors as time permits. If you are a senior with a special yard need or need simple repairs done, can’t afford it, and don’t know of anyone to help you, call Jeff at 575-408-0901 and he will try to help.

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SERVICE DIRECTORY N.M.State Senator Carroll Leavell

OPTION, INC. Center for Victims of Domestic Violence

Eddy & Lea District 41 P.O. Drawer D Jal, NM 88252 Capitol Phone: 986-4278

200 N. Dalmont, Hobbs, NM 88240

Office Phone: (575) 393-2550; Home Phone(575) 395-3154 Email: leavell4@leaco.net

575-397-1576 Hobbs, NM 88240

DO YOU NEED LEGAL ADVICE?

(575)397-2727 1923 W. Bender Blvd Hobbs, NM 88240

The Legal Resources for the Elderly Program of the New Mexico State Bar Association provides negotiated-fee or free legal assistance to New Mexicans ages 55 and older.

(Services are not available for criminal defense.) You can access their web page by clicking here http://www.nmbar. org/Public/LREP, or call toll free at (800) 876-6657.

Need to talk to the NM Department of Health that licenses your nursing homes and care facilities?

Call 1-800-752-8649

IS SOMEONE IN A FACILITY MISTREATING YOU, DISRESPECTING YOU, NEGLECTING YOUR CARE, ABUSING YOU VERBALLY OR PHYSICALLY, CALL NM LONG-TERM CARE OMBUDSMAN (505) 570-7139 The New Mexico Long-Term Care Ombudsman advocates for the recognition, respect and enforcement of the civil and human rights of residents of long-term care facilities in New Mexico. (505) 476-4790.

SENIOR CITIZEN MISSING? SILVER ALERT

“Proud to serve our Senior Citizens” --- Ruston Hayes

A Silver Alert is a notification that gets sent out statewide, similar to that of an Amber Alert. What are the criteria for a Silver Alert? This advisory is a notification relating to an endangered senior who is fifty (50) years or older, about whom there is clear indication that the individual has an irreversible deterioration of intellectual faculties.

Contact police to put out a Silver Alert for a missing senior.

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POSTMAN NOT REQUIRED TO PICK UP YOUR MAIL

ENTERTAINMENT & EVENTS

Have you ever wondered why those letters or packages might be sitting in your mailbox for days? Did you know that your postman is not required to stop and pick up your mail if the postman has nothing to deliver to you that day, or the next day? Hobbs Post Office confirmed that this is correct.

Even if your flag is up on your mailbox, there is a chance that your outgoing mail will remain there until your postman has a delivery for your address.

OUTSTANDING VOLUNTEERS

SALUTING THE VOLUNTEERS WHO GIVE OF THEIR TIME AND LOVE OF SENIORS TO HELP WITH SENIORS

Kay Ritchey, volunteer Marketing Director

Kay Shuman, Lovington

GRANO TAX SERVICE Michael Grano 7D[ 3UHSDUDWLRQ (OHFWURQLF )LOLQJ $FFRXQWLQJ 3D\UROO

“Service is more than just a word with us”

STANDING STRONG Valerie Seidl, Hobbs

Mr. B’s Amusement and Vending Co.

Best Machines, Best Service We deliver fast, dependable, honest service

504 E. Marland, Hobbs, New Mexico 88240

502 E. Marland - Hobbs, N.M.

575-393-5038

575-397-3745

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PREDATORY LOANS FORCING SOME SENIOR CITIZENS INTO BANKRUPTCY HERE It seems so easy when that postcard comes in the mail advising that you are approved for $1,000 right now through a cash loan company. Predatory lenders charge excessive fees, interest rates, and pre-payment penalties and often require balloon payments. Rarely, experts say, do these aggressive companies check to see if the consumer has the means to pay it back.

Low income individuals, senior citizens, and veterans often are the target, and it happens right here in your communities.

There are seniors looking at filing bankruptcy, and others who can’t afford food here because they are trying to make payments on loans like these.

BERT MADERA OF JAL DOESN’T SLOW DOWN...

Bert Madera of Jal continues the family tradition at the generation cowboy. He and his wife, Montie Carol work to

...HE IS A TRUE COWBOY Pitchfork Ranch as a third perpetuate the cowboy

way through providing holistic, all natural, chemical free

environments.

The

Maderas say holistic ranching is about respecting the

land in its entirety.

Madera’s ranch is one of the longest continually-

operating

ranches in New Mexico. Whether it’s a cattle drive,

a branding, or a

cowboy gathering, you will most likely run into Bert

and Montie Carol.

holistic

Jim Harris Photo

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NURSING HOMES - REHAB FACILITIES - LONG TERM - SHORT TERM Each State Rates and Ranks Facilities on a 1 Star to 5 Star rank with full details outlining quality, safety, medications, and care

DO YOU WANT TO KNOW “BEFORE” YOU CHECK IN? Go to Medicare.gov/nursinghomecompare or carepathways.com for inspections completed 6/14/15 and a more comprehensive list of facilities in New Mexico and Texas

HOBBS - LOVINGTON Country Cottage Care And Rehab 2101 Bensing Road Hobbs, NM 88240 Phone: 575-397-1113 Good Samaritan Lovington 1600 West Ave I Lovington, NM 88260 Phone: 575-396-5212 Hobbs Operating Comp Dba Hobbs Healthcare Center 5715 North Lovington Highway Hobbs, NM 88240 Phone: 575-392-6845 Lea Regional Medical Center - Transitional Care Unit; 5419 N Lovington Highway; Hobbs, NM 88240; Phone: 575-492-5000

CARLSBAD Carlsbad Medical Center - Tcu 2430 West Pierce Street Carlsbad, NM 88220 Phone: 575-887-4458

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Landsun Homes, Inc. 1900 Westridge Road Carlsbad, NM 88220 Phone: 575-885-8150 Northgate Unit Of Lakeview Christian Home Nursing 1905 West Pierce St Carlsbad, NM 88220 Phone: 575-885-3161

ARTESIA San Pedro Nursing And Rehabilitation Center 1402 West Gilchrist Artesia, NM 88210 Phone: 575-746-6006

CLOVIS Clovis Healthcare And Rehabilitation Center 1201 North Norris Street Clovis, NM 88101 Phone: 575-762-3754 Retirement Ranches Inc. 2221 Dillon Clovis, NM 88101 Phone: 575-762-4495 Phone: 575-623-6008 St Anthony Healthcare And Rehab Center, L 1400 West 21st Street

Clovis, NM 88101 Phone: 575-762-4705

ROSWELL Casa Maria Healthcare Center And Pecos Valley Reha 1601 South Main Street Roswell, NM 88203 Mission Arch Center 3200 Mission Arch Drive Roswell, NM 88201 Phone: 575-624-2583 Sunset Villa Care Center 1515 South Sunset Roswell, NM 88203 Phone: 575-623-7097

SEMINOLE, TX Memorial Health Care Center 212 Nw 10th St Seminole, TX 79360 Phone: 432-758-4877

DENVER CITY, TX Shinnery Oaks Community 711 West Broadway Denver City, TX 79323 Phone: 806-592-2551

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MIDLAND, TX Desert Gardens Nursing And Rehabilitation Center 3203 Sage St Midland, TX 79705 Phone: 432-683-5403

LUBBOCK, TX Carillon Inc 1717 A Norfolk Ave Lubbock, TX 79416 Phone: 806-281-6114 Crown Point Health Suites 6640 Iola Avenue Lubbock, TX 79424 Phone: 806-687-6640 Golden Age Nursing Home 2613 34th St Lubbock, TX 79410 Phone: 806-792-2196 Mildred & Shirley L Garrison Geriatric Education A 3710 4th St Lubbock, TX 79415 Phone: 806-763-4455

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“The City of Lovington Salutes and Applauds the Senior Citizens in Our Community!”

City Hall 214 S. Love, Lovington, NM 88260 Monday thru Thursday 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Friday open 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

575-396-2884

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Today in his 90s, Giles Lee takes care of and feeds 200 cows across 23 square miles at Swamp Angel Ranch near Lovington

JIM HARRIS PHOTO

Just a friendly game of dominos at Hobbs Senior Center.

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1600 W. Ave I, Lovington, NM 88260

BUYING ADULT DIAPERS ABOUT TO BANKRUPT YOU?

Phone:

575-396-5212 Faye Bell, Kim Webb, Garret Stewart, Tanima Hoque, Rilda Perdue, Mirna Gonzalez, Chriselda Alvarez, Lilly Lucero, Debra Fisher, Dolores Nunez, Elisabet Gallegos, Ezie Venzor, Adrian Onantia, Karen Downing, Lisa Waite, Sylvia Villalta, Jordyne Taylor, Presley Roberts, Idaly Marinelarenaqu, Kim Vandyke, Tisha Thompson, Claudia Johnson, Stacy Reed, and Josh Crosby

We are a Skilled Nursing Facility specializing in rehab, palliative and respite care.

We are proud to say, “We have one of the best staffs in the state.”

Come join our family as a volunteer. We offer outpatient therapy.

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Locals provided this information so others could find assistance as they have. Medicaid will pay for them! If you are approved and on Medicaid, get a prescription from your doctor for the incontinence supplies and set up your account.

Locals say, “Wouldn’t it be better to be paying a small copay rather than hundreds of dollars each month?” Residents who have been able to utilize the services have provided the following phone number for more information.

1-877-902-9726

Tatum Senior Center Grand Reopening Draws A Big Crowd State Representative, Bob Wooley and his wife cooked the meat and others brought a mouth watering dish. The newly remodeled facility, seniors say, is such a fun place to go. Whether it is coffee every morning at 9:00 at the center, game night, pot luck lunches, or regular grocery shopping trips, the center holds the hearts of this community.

BOOMERS AND SENIORS: YOU COULD GET A LETTER AFTER YOUR PARENT PASSES - STATING THAT YOU “OWE THE STATE BACK” FOR MEDICAID LONG-TERM CARE; ONE LOCAL TX WOMAN RECEIVED A LETTER STATING THAT THE STATE WAS PLANNING TO TAKE THE FAMILY HOME TO PAY BACK THE BILL Estate Recovery and Liens: State Medicaid programs must recover certain Medicaid benefits paid on behalf of a Medicaid enrollee. For individuals age 55 or older, states are required to seek recovery of payments from the individual’s estate for nursing facility services, home and community-based services, and related hospital and prescription drug services.

States have the option to recover payments for all other Medicaid services provided to these individuals, except Medicare cost-

sharing paid on behalf of Medicare Savings Program beneficiaries.

Under certain conditions, money remaining in a trust after a Medicaid enrollee has passed away may be used to reimburse Medicaid. States may not recover from the estate of a deceased Medicaid enrollee who is survived by a spouse, child under age 21, or blind or disabled child of any age. States are also required to establish procedures for waiving estate recovery when recovery would cause an undue hardship.

States may impose liens for

Medicaid benefits incorrectly paid pursuant to a court judgment.

States may also impose liens on real property during the lifetime of a Medicaid enrollee who is permanently institutionalized, except when one of the following individuals resides in the home: the spouse, child under age 21, blind or disabled child of any age, or sibling who has an equity interest in the home. The states must remove the lien when the Medicaid enrollee is discharged from the facility and returns home. Source: Medicaid

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RECENT SURVEY OF SENIOR CITIZENS IN LEA COUNTY INDICATES SERIOUS NEEDS HUNGER:

22% of Lea County seniors surveyed eat 2 or less meals a day and need help with groceries.

Falling through the cracks are the thousands of seniors in Lea County who do not qualify for Meals on Wheels.

GLASSES:

18% of those surveyed need glasses, an eye checkup, or surgeries. They say they can’t see to read, and can’t enjoy the beauty around them. According to current Medicare guidelines, Medicare doesn’t cover routine eye exams (sometimes called “eye refractions”) for eyeglasses or contact lenses. Medicare covers some preventive and diagnostic eye exams: Generally, Medicare doesn’t cover eyeglasses or contact lenses. However, following cataract surgery that implants an intraocular lens, Part B helps pay for corrective lenses (one pair of eyeglasses or one set of contact lenses).

In 2015, you pay 100% for non-covered services, including most eyeglasses or contact lenses. You pay 20% of the Medicare-approved amount for one pair of eyeglasses or one set of contact lenses after each cataract surgery with an intraocular lens, and the Part B deductible applies. You pay any additional costs for upgraded frames.

Medicare will only pay for contact lenses or eyeglasses from a supplier enrolled in Medicare, no matter who submits the claim (you or your supplier)

HEARING:

10% of seniors surveyed need help with getting hearing aids. They say inability to hear takes away experiencing good conversation, music, and having quality of life.

DENTAL: 1 in 6 seniors surveyed need dental help, checkups, cleanings, fillings, extractions but say they can’t afford it, and Medicare doesn’t pay. Many say they are not eating because their teeth hurt so bad they do without or lean toward a soft diet with little nutritional value which can contribute to illness and weakness.

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Solving the problems of the world at Billy McKibbin Senior Center are RL Byrum, Thomas Griffin, Mr. Boyd, and Mack Hendershot of Lovington (Photo & Names By Kay Ritchey) Lea County seniors know how to have a good time, eat a great meal, and enjoy life!

EUNICE NOTE: If you are 60+ years of age you may qualify for services... Come check out the Eunice Senior Center....

HOBBS NOTE: Alzheimer’s Association Support Group meets the 4th Friday of each month at Hobbs Senior Center. 1 - 2 p.m.

NEW MEXICO HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES LARRY R. SCOTT R - LEA DISTRICT 62

“It is an honor to serve our Senior Citizens” Office Phone: (575) 392-5960 Email: larry.scott@nmlegis.gov Mailing Address: 406 E. Arriba Drive Hobbs, NM 88240

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LOCAL SCAMS

By Officer Mike Stone, Hobbs Police Department

5. Citizens have reported being contacted by a computer company who states that your computer needs repair or has viruses and they can do it remotely In this electronic age of internet, phones by using the internet. Then they ask for your credit or and other methods debit card information. of communications, scam artists have an 6. The caller states that they are from the Internal abundance of tools Revenue Service or some other government agency at their fingertips and that you owe back taxes. Then they advise you to use to scam you. that you need to pay them a large sum of money or Senior citizens appear to be the main target for these a warrant will be issued immediately for your arrest. scammers for a number of reasons. A significant They also tell you how many hours you have left to number have a home phone and are listed in phone pay before government agents show up at your home books. Phone book listings are made available to to arrest you. various entities that use the addresses and phone numbers for legitimate mailings and sales calls. These phone book listings also make it into search engines 7. A person may come to the door of a home and say on the internet. Scammers use phone listings and that the roof or some other part of the home needs enter them into search engines on the internet which to be repaired or painted and they need the money tell the scammer the age of the person associated with up front to buy the construction materials. Some that phone number, therefore that is who they call and people have given money in this type of scam and the try to con. scammer never returns to do any work.

1. The scammer calls and says you have won a lottery in another country which includes a million dollars or two and a new BMW or Mercedes Benz. Then they ask you to go to Walmart and purchase a green dot money card to send to them in order to receive the prizes.

2. Scammers sometimes say that they are collecting money for equipment such as bullet proof vests for officers with a police department or the state police.

3. The scam artist will call and say that the recipient has a huge check coming due to the Federal Government’s stimulus for all Americans if you send them some money.

4. An individual may come to your door and say that they are from your alarm company and you need to pay them at that time to replace all of your alarm equipment. They carry shirts, hats or ID badges from all the major alarm companies and know which one to wear to your door because of the alarm signs you may have in your yard.

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Anytime a caller asks for money by phone simply hang up. Remember the old saying, “If it sounds too good to be true, then it probably is.� If a caller asks for money for a donation for what appears to be a legitimate charity, ask them to mail the information and you might consider a donation. The phone numbers that appear on caller ID really are not where the calls are coming from. The scammers are using technology to show that the calls are coming from other numbers than their own; in fact, a large number of these scams are done from other countries in order to avoid any type of prosecution by U. S. authorities.

Never give out personal information to a caller such as date of birth, social security number or debit/credit card information. Finally, if you receive a call about a different scam that the public needs to be aware of please call me at 575-397-9381 and be sure to tell your friends and relatives about it so they will not become a victim.

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HONORING ALL AREA SENIOR CITIZENS AND CELEBRATING THEIR WISDOM

Manna Outreach provides temporary shelter especially when hard times unexpectedly happen. They help with a place to stay so those who seek help can look for a job, find and save money for a place to live, need a hearty meal, or are down on their luck. Manna has provided countless numbers of food baskets for those who have little or no food, has provided clothing for many residents. There are individuals living in cars, and out on the street. There are those who have lost their homes, and need the kindness and assistance offered at Manna. Men, women, and families receive help from Manna Outreach.

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