Generations October 2019

Home security tips for seniors

Seniors are often targeted by criminals. Though many criminals target seniors from afar via telephone or internet scams, criminals seek to enter seniors’ homes.

The Bureau of Justice Statistics offers that, between 2003 and 2013, the ratio of property crime to violent crime was higher for the elderly and persons between the ages of 50 and 64 than it was for younger persons between the ages of 25 and 49.

Home security is important for people of all ages, but especially so for seniors and aging individuals living alone. By following certain safety tips and developing a home security

plan, seniors can feel safer at home.

Lock windows and door

It may seem like common sense, but failure to repeatedly lock windows and doors can, and often does, give burglars easy entry into the home.

Think about a smart doorbell

Technology now enables doorbells to provide a video feed to a person’s smartphone or tablet over WiFi. This allows residents to see who is at the door and speak to this person without having to open the door. Some products like Ring¨ will

even register motion activity and record short videos from outside of the house.

Don’t share or leave keys

Avoid leaving keys under a mat or in a flower pot. Others may be watching your actions and gain access to your home while you are away.

Ask for ID

When service people or other individuals come to the door, verify their credentials by asking to see some identification.

Get a home security system

The best protection against burglars is a home

security alarm, states HomeSecurityResource.org. Such an alarm often deters burglars from breaking in.

Install a lockable mailbox

Locked mailboxes restrict access to sensitive information, such as bank account numbers, sent in the mail. Make sure

retirement checks or other payments are deposited directly into bank accounts instead of having them sent by check.

Use home automation

Home automation, or a “smart home,” can be utilized to turn on lights, set the thermostat, lock doors, and much more.

Adopt a dog

Dogs can be an asset to seniors. Dogs provide companionship and can bark or alert seniors if someone is around or inside of the home.

Home security is serious business for seniors who are vulnerable to criminals.

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Cruising Tips and Tricks

By Molly Milroy

Cruising can be an ideal vacation for people of any age, but particularly for seniors. Cruises combine all-inclusive meal packages with accommodations, breathtaking ports of call and pre-arranged activities, so vacationers do not have to lift a finger for days on end. Cruising also can be a social activity, meaning singletons can meet up with other likeminded people and enjoy the cruising experience together.

Whether a person is new to cruising or is a seasoned ocean or river traveler,

there are always techniques to try to score great deals or enjoy the experience even further. Consider these tips and tricks, courtesy of Jennifer Maki, owner of Divine Destinations, a Duluth-based travel company.

Research the ships, and not just the cruise lines

Cruise lines each offer their own amenities and are known for certain features. One cruise line may be a better match for singles, while others may cater to families. There are cruise lines that have cabins specifically designed for solo travelers. TIPS AND TRICKS: Page 5

Jennifer Maki

TIPS AND TRICKS

From Page 4

“As a solo traveler you can meet new people or take time for a retreat and do some soul searching” Maki shares.

In addition, certain ships may have their own special features that you will want to research ahead of time. Are you interested in dynamic shows, casinos, or exploring different cities? Choose a ship that meets your needs.

Book far in advance

“They say the best time to plant a tree is 25 years ago and the same goes with travel,” Maki said. Booking a year in advance is best.

“By booking early, you can get the itinerary you want, but more importantly you get the cabin on the ship that you want instead of what is left over. You can get the best price as well,” Maki explained. If you book too late, you might get a cabin above the night club, pool deck or dining hall.

Arrive the night before

Weather or mechanical issues may cause you to miss the boat if you are flying in the day of the ship’s departure. “The boat is not going to wait for you,” Maki explained, “so it’s important to arrive the night before so you can start your vacation as stress free as possible.”

It also gives you the opportunity to explore the departure city. Check into a nearby hotel, some may offer free parking or shuttle service to the ship.

Make reservations for shows and classes ahead of time

Cruise ships often offer a variety of shows or classes. “On these ships, they have world class entertainment and it’s important to reserve your space in advance for those shows to guarantee the time you want,” said Maki. Go over

the options of things to do, prioritize what you want to you and then make the reservations. But be sure to leave time for relaxation as well!

Understand what’s included

Cruise ships have many foods and drinks that are included in the packaged price. Certain branded items, such as specialty coffees or ice creams, may be available at an additional charge, as are premium drinks. But chances are you can find a free, similar version elsewhere on the ship.

Explore special discounts

When shopping for a cruise, there may be discounts available for seniors, people in the military, or those who belong to certain clubs.

“We can help ensure you get the cabin you want,” explained Maki. “We can get the best prices and guarantee discounts for returning guests. We take away the stress and confusion and all you’re left to do is pack your bag.”

What to pack

When it comes to packing for your cruise, Maki suggests laying out what you’re planning to bring, come back to it a little later, and then take out 25 percent of it.

“We tend to over pack,” Maki said, “and with laundromats on every floor of the cruise ship, you can always do laundry.”

It’s also wise to bring a bring a backpack and a water bottle. “If you’re doing any sightseeing, even on a bus tour, it’s so much more convenient to carry a backpack than a purse,” shares Maki.

Use these tips and tricks to help you cruise into your next getaway. Go with your spouse, a friend, or explore solo traveling. Any questions or want some assistance planning your trip? Contact Divine Destinations at 218723-8747 or visit http://mydivinevacation.com.

Increased opportunities to travel is one aspect of reaching 50 that excites many men and women. Many of these people will have extra time to devote to leisure activities. AARP, the leading nonprofit organization for aging adults, says that of the people with AARP memberships, nearly two-thirds take advantage of travel discounts and other benefits in a typical year. The following are some such travel perks.

Age can mean discounts

The minimum age to qualify for “senior” discounts varies among companies and for different products and services, so it’s up to travelers to see what is available to them. Not all companies advertise their senior discounts. Read reviews in travel forums or on travel websites to find out which brands or places offer the best deals.

More discretionary time

Even if retirement is a ways down the road, older adults may have accrued more vacation time than their younger colleagues. That time can be translated into longer or more frequent trips.

Age-based memberships

Reaching age 50 or 60 may entitle people to join groups that negotiate deals for their members. For example, the minimum membership age for AARP is 50, meaning travelers who join AARP can enjoy discounts roughly five years before they’re eligible for senior discounts offered by other organizations.

Travel during off seasons

When not constrained by school schedules, men and women over 50 can travel during times of the year when prices are most affordable. This means savings and smaller crowds. This flexibility also can translate into airline discounts, as men and women over 50 with no time constraints can choose to be standby passengers in exchange for discounted or free tickets.

(715) 817-8448

How traveling after turning 50 can be great

How to stay flexible as you age

Men and women may begin to feel less flexible as they get older. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, that loss of flexibility is because muscles lose both strength and elasticity as the body ages.

A lack of flexibility can make men and women more vulnerable to certain types of injuries, including muscle strains and tears. While people might not be able to maintain the flexibility they enjoyed in their 20s, there are ways for them to combat age-related loss of flexibility.

Stretch frequently

Stretching is a great way

to combat age-related loss of flexibility. Stretch major muscle groups, such as hamstrings and shoulder muscles, several times per week.

When practicing static stretching, the goal is to gradually elongate the muscle being stretched before holding the elongated position, and ultimately allowing the muscle to return to resting position. As flexibility improves, elongated stretches can be held for 30 seconds.

Avoid stretching muscles that are sore or injured, and discontinue a stretch if you feel pain or discomfort.

Include yoga in your exercise regimen

Practitioners of yoga typically love how this unique discipline that exercises the body while relaxing the mind improves their flexibility. Many yoga poses are designed to improve the strength and flexibility of muscles, and some physicians may even recommend yoga to aging patients.

Yoga DVDs or streaming sessions can be great, but beginners may want to visit yoga studios or sign up for classes at their gyms so instructors can personally ensure they are doing each pose correctly.

FLEXIBLE : Page 9

Appointment companions are a smart move

Visits to a physician are just one step people make in an effort to improve their well-being. While it’s important that everyone visit their physicians at least once a year for a checkup, seniors may need to see their physicians more frequently than other age groups.

When visiting the doctor, it is easy for anyone to miss important components of what the doctor is saying, and it’s just as easy to misunderstand certain instructions or medication information. Seniors who bring companions along to appointments with their physicians can reduce the risk of misunderstanding advice or diagnoses given by their doctors.

Data from U.S. News and World Report states that about one-third of seniors still living on their own take a companion with them to their routine doctor’s office visits. Companions are typically spouses, but they can include children or other family members as well.

Patients may find there are many advantages to bringing someone along to an appointment. And companions may want to learn more about patients’ goals at each appointment prior to going along so they can prepare and know how to help during the appointment.

Listening

Internal Medicine. This tendency may be increased when patients are nervous about the potential outcome of their visits. Bringing a companion along means that both people are actively listening. Together, the information they’ve heard can combine to provide a full account of the visit.

Taking notes

Companions can jot down important notes about the appointment, such as dates and times for follow-up visits, medication advice and any other instructions that may be forgotten once the patient leaves the office. Companions can later translate the jargon-heavy language of a physician into an understandable language the patient can fully understand.

Knowing medical history

Sometimes a companion can be a useful resource, calling a doctor’s attention to a patient’s prior hospitalizations and illnesses. Companions can even call attention to any medications the patient is currently taking.

COMPANIONS: Page 9

Common causes of poor vision

Vision loss is a common condition, as the World Health Organization notes that more than 285 million people across the globe suffer some type of visual impairment. Many people can effectively counter their vision problems with prescription lenses, but others may have a more significant issue, such as low vision.

The Kellogg Eye Center defines low vision as a reduced level of vision that cannot be fully corrected with conventional glasses. Those with low vision have some useful sight and are not considered completely blind. However, low vision can interfere with performance of daily activities, and some people with this condition are classified as “legally blind.”

Symptoms of low vision include difficulty recognizing objects at a distance or problems with differentiating colors. Yet, not everyone dealing with these symptoms has low vision. Specialized testing can determine if a person has low vision or another condition.

Many conditions can impact sight and contribute to vision loss. Here’s a look at some of the more common ones.

• Glaucoma: A person with glaucoma may gradually lose peripheral vision. Early symptoms, such as a subtle loss of contrast, may be unnoticeable. Eventually, glaucoma may cause tunnel vision, which occurs when a person can only see through a small window.

• Macular degeneration: Macular degeneration is the leading cause of vision loss, affecting more than 10 million people in the United States alone,

according to the American Macular Degeneration Foundation. The AMDF offers that macular degeneration is caused by the deterioration of the retina’s central portion, known as the macula. The macula is responsible for focusing central vision in the eye, and it contributes to one’s ability to read, drive a car, recognize faces or colors and see objects in fine detail.

• Retinal detachment: An increase of floaters or sudden flashes of light in vision may be indicative of retinal detachment or a tear in the retina. When caught promptly, a detached retina may be repaired. However, if left untreated and the detachment reaches the macula in the center of the retina, vision loss may be irreparable. The National Eye Institute says those with extreme nearsightedness, those who have had cataract surgery or those with a family history of retinal detachment are at a high risk.

• Diabetic retinopathy: Blurring or patchy vision loss can be a side effect of high blood glucose levels. Not all people with diabetes will develop vision problems, but it is common enough to warrant attention.

• Cataracts: According to The Mayo Clinic, a cataract is a clouding of the normally clear lens of the eye. Cataracts develop when aging or injury changes the tissue that makes up the eyes’ lenses. Clouded vision can make it more difficult to read or drive. Over time, cataracts may obscure vision so much that they require surgical repair.

Routine eye examinations can bring potential vision disturbances to light and facilitate faster treatment. Eye doctors also can make suggestions about lifestyle changes, including the use optical devices to improve sight.

From Page 6

As their flexibility improves, men and women can try more difficult poses and classes if they so desire.

Get in the pool

Swimming is another activity that can help aging men and women improve their flexibility.

Strength-training exercises are an important component of a wellbalanced exercise regimen, but such workouts tend to focus on one or two muscle groups at a time. That means other muscle groups may be inactive and tighten up as a result. Swimming works the entire body, which helps all muscle groups stay loose and flexible. One or two swimming sessions per week can contribute to great gains in overall flexibility, especially for men and women who remember to stretch when they get out of the pool.

Flexibility may decrease as men and women age, but there are various ways to combat the natural loss of flexibility.

From Page 7

Serving as an advocate

Very often a companion can operate as a patient advocate, clarifying questions or getting further information out of a doctor if the patient is hesitant to ask. If the information isn’t clear, the companion can raise red flags or ask to have the instructions put in a different light.

Translating

Sometimes patients need companions who speak their native languages when their physicians do not.

People are learning that bringing a family member or friend along to doctors’ appointments can be a smart way to make the most of doctor/patient interactions.

Service Directory

ASSISTED LIVING

Barross Manor

Our care levels range from independent to end-of-life care. Come in for a tour and to learn more about becoming a part of our family today!

414 1st Ave., Two Harbors • 218-834-6174 barrossmanor@hotmail.com

CREDIT UNION

Northern Communities Credit Union

Your full service credit union who has been here for YOU since 1928. 3311 W. Arrowhead Road, Duluth 800 S. 16th Ave., Virginia • 218-279-3200 www.nccyou.com

HEALTH CARE

Community Memorial Hospital

For over 60 years, CMH has developed an amazing array of services to meet the needs of our families, friends and neighbors. Expect short wait times, unrushed appointments and a caring, well-trained staff. Find out why people say we’re a small-town hospital with bighearted care.

512 Skyline Boulevard, Cloquet • 218-879-4641 www.cloquethospital.com

HOME REPAIRS

DBS Residential Services

DBS - Serving the Northland

Local Expert for Foundations, Basements & Insulation

Waterproofing & Foundation Specialists You Can Trust

Specialties: Concrete Repair, Garage Remodeling, Crawl

Space/Foundation Repair, Basement Waterproofing & Basement

Finishing - Free Estimates!

5116 Jean Duluth Road, Duluth, MN 55803 218-481.1612 • DBSRepairTribune.com

HOUSING

Carlton Lofts

Carlton Lofts is an adaptive re-use of 57 residential units in downtown Cloquet with a multi-use community room. Lofts consist of studios, one- and two-bedroom units with garage parking, open layout floor plans, and modern interiors.

509 Carlton Avenue, Cloquet • 651-290-6228 www.Carltonloftsmn.com

Housing and Redevelopment

Authority of Duluth

Creating housing opportunities and strengthening neighborhoods to sustainably achieve a quality living environment for all. 218-529-6300 • www.duluthhousing.com

INSURANCE

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota

For 85 years, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota has been dedicated to providing quality, cost-effective health plans and unique health programs. Now it’s easier than ever to shop for health insurance, find a doctor, get wellness tips and more. 425 W. Superior St., Ste. 1060, Duluth • 218-529-9199 www.bluecrossmn.com/centers

Koehler Insurance Solutions

Educate, educate, educate… it’s what Koehler Insurance Solutions is all about. Learn more about Medicare health plan options by contacting Joe Koehler today.

1418 Tower Ave., Superior 715-718-0900 • www.koehlerinusrancesolutions.com

LEGAL SERVICES

Law Office of Yvonne Michaud Novak

Licensed in both Minnesota and Wisconsin, Yvonne understands the significance of your particular legal problem and takes pride in providing practical solutions tailored to your needs.

Asset Protection & Business Planning • Bankruptcy • Estate Planning • Family Owned Businesses • Incapacity Planning • LGBT Estate Planning • Pet Planning • Trust Administration & Probate 202 W. Superior St., Ste 303, Duluth 218-720-2888 • www.ymnlaw.com

MEDICAL EQUIPMENT

Essentia Health Medical Equipment & Supplies

Proudly serving northern Minnesota and Wisconsin with quality, durable medical equipment, medical supplies, orthotics and prosthetics for over 25 years.

4418 Haines Road, Duluth • 1001 N 9th Ave., Virginia 1-800-777-8390 • www.EssentiaMedicalSupply.org

PHARMACY

Medicine Shoppe Pharmacy

In addition to prompt prescriptions, we offer services such as immunizations, medication therapy management, multi-dose packaging, medication synchronization, important health screenings, and expert care.

1208 Cloquet Ave., Cloquet • 218-879-4547 419 Skyline Blvd., Cloquet • 218-879-1501 www.cloquet.medicineshoppe.com

REAL ESTATE SERVICES

JS Realty, LLC

Contact the J.S. Realty team -- Jackie, Jamie, Julie and Braxton -- for help buying or selling your home!

5112 Midway Road, Duluth • 218-729-9784 www.js-realty.com • Email: info@js-realty.com

SENIOR RESOURCES

Senior Connections

As the County Aging Unit, Senior Connections provides a variety of services and programs to individuals aged 60 and over, as well as specialized transportation to individuals aged 55 and over and persons with disabilities.

1805 N. 16th St., Superior • 715-394-3611

www.seniorconnectionswi.org

Aging and Disability

Resource Center (ADRC)

Providing information to the general public about services, resources, and programs for adults with disabilities, children with disabilities transitioning to adulthood, and the elderly in need of assistance.

1316 N. 14th St., Superior • 715-395-7532

www.douglascountywi.org/ADRC

Email: adrc@douglascountywi.org

SPECIAL GIFT IDEAS

Rebecca’s Remembrance Bears

Keeping fond memories alive with a special way to remember; a loved one, a friendship, a family milestone, a special event, or a friend or family member serving in the military. For questions or to place orders, contact Rebecca 218-721-3006 • rebeccasbears@gmail.com

FB: Rebeccas Remembrance Bears

TRAVEL

Divine Destinations

Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway or family, group or corporate travel, we eliminate stress and elevate your experience. Clients say it’s the easiest trip you’ll ever book. One call does it all. 1019 W. Central Entrance, Duluth • 218-723-8747

www.mydivinevacation.com

Email: jennifer@mydivinevacation.com

VISION LOSS

Lighthouse Center for Vision Loss

We provide training and other services to 1,500 individuals with vision loss each year. We serve youth, working-age adults, and seniors through services provided at the vision rehabilitation center, at home, or in the workplace. Training is available in daily living skills, orientation and mobility, technology, braille, and adaptive leisure. Other services include vision loss support groups, a low vision store and the Twin Ports News of the Air radio station. 4505 W Superior St, Duluth • 218-624-4828 • www.lcfvl.org

WEIGHT LOSS

Ideally You Health & Weight Loss Center

Weight Loss Center

925 E Superior St; Suite 114; Duluth, MN 55802 218-221-6604 • ideallyyouweightloss.com

Apple Stuffed Chicken Breast

Recipe courtesy of www.allrecipes.com

This is a great dish for the fall. Golden Delicious, Granny Smith, Newtown Pippin, Rome Beauty and/or Winesap apples may be used.

Ingredients

2 skinless, boneless chicken breasts

½ cup chopped apple

2 tablespoons shredded Cheddar cheese

1 tablespoon Italian-style dried bread crumbs

1 tablespoon butter

¼ cup dry white wine

¼ cup water

1 tablespoon water

1 ½ teaspoons cornstarch

1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Directions

1. Combine apple, cheese, and bread crumbs. Set aside.

2. Flatten chicken breasts between sheets

Roasted Tomato Soup

Recipe courtesy of www.allrecipes.com

Quick and creamy tomato soup with pesto. You can spice this up with hot sauce or chile oil if you like it hot.

Ingredients

3 pounds roma (plum) tomatoes, quartered

1 yellow onion, halved and quartered

1/2 red bell pepper, chopped

3 tablespoons olive oil

1 tablespoon sea salt

1-1/2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper

3 cloves garlic, halved

5 cups low-sodium chicken broth

2 teaspoons dried basil

1 teaspoon dried parsley

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Line a large baking sheet with aluminum foil.

2. Spread tomatoes, onion, and red bell pepper in 1 layer onto the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle olive oil over tomato mixture and season with salt and pepper.

3. Roast in the preheated oven for 30 minutes; add garlic and continue roasting

of waxed paper to 1/4 inch thickness. Divide apple mixture between chicken breasts and roll up each breast. Secure with toothpicks.

3. Melt butter or margarine in a 7-inch skillet over medium heat. Brown stuffed chicken breasts. Add wine and 1/4 cup water. Cover. Simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, or until chicken is no longer pink.

4. Transfer chicken to a serving platter. Combine 1 tablespoon water and cornstarch; stir into juices in pan. Cook and stir until thickened. Pour gravy over chicken, and garnish with parsley. Serve.

Nutrition Facts

Per Serving: 139 calories; 5.1 g total fat; 46 mg cholesterol; 120 mg sodium. 4.9 g carbohydrates; 15 g protein

until tomato mixture is tender, about 15 more minutes.

4. Bring chicken broth, basil, and parsley to a boil in a large stockpot; reduce heat and simmer.

5. Put half the tomato mixture into a blender. Cover and hold lid down; pulse a few times before leaving on to blend until smooth, adding a small amount of the warm chicken broth if liquid is needed. Pour pureed tomato mixture into stockpot with chicken broth. Puree remaining half of tomato mixture and add to chicken stock mixture, mixing well. Simmer for 5 minutes.

Nutrition Facts

Per Serving: 140 calories; 7.6 g fat; 14.7 g carbohydrates; 5.4 g protein; 3 mg cholesterol; 988 mg sodium