It’s A Grand Life
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Published by Estrella Publishing LLC, PO Box 6962, Goodyear AZ 85338. Additional copies and article reproductions can be obtained for a fee by contacting info@EstrellaPublishing.com Catherine Uretsky, Publisher and Editor 623.594.9283 info@EstrellaPublishing.com Al Uretsky, Publisher and Sales Executive 623.594.9283 info@EstrellaPublishing.com
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All contents © 2010-present day Estrella Publishing LLC. All Rights Reserved. Reproduction in any form, in whole or part, without written permission from Estrella Publishing LLC is prohibited. Estrella Publishing accepts freelance contributions, there is no guarantee that materials will be used or returned. Estrella Publishing is not responsible for the views of contributing writers and assumes no responsibility for errors appearing within. Opinions expressed are those of the writers and not necessarily those of the Publisher or Advertisers. Estrella Publishing reserves the right to restrict all advertisement to their proper classification and to edit or reject any copy at its sole discretion. Neither this publication nor Estrella Publishing is an agent of or in any way affiliated with the associated Developer nor Homeowners Association, or any of their respective affiliates. This publication has not been approved by, sponsored by, or endorsed by the associated Developer nor Homeowners Association in any way.
Catherine Uretsky Publisher & Editor
It’s A Grand Life
Al Uretsky Publisher & Sales Exec
September 2017
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From Me To You... Welcome! to the September edition of It’s A Grand Life magazine.
I heard a comment the other day spoken in a sarcastic tone, “Ah, the joys of getting older!” swiftly followed by a litany of this particular person’s ailments. The sore back, the aching joints, hair growing in mysterious places... I am sure many of you can relate. In an attempt to retain what physical abilities I still have, I recently signed our family up for a fun run. I do not do this lightly, let me tell you, I have participated in one of these before and there was nothing “fun” about it... It was billed as a 5K with 17 obstacles. I thought, “I can do that!” I mean really, how hard could it be to run 5 kilometers (a mere 3ish miles) with 17 obstacles interspersed along the route? Even I could stagger between them and make it all the way, raising money for charity at the same time. I resolved to train so that I could get to the end in good time. Of course life got in the way and there was very little training, but again, how hard could it be? Once I got to the starting line I realized my folly. This was no leisurely Sunday activity, these
people were battle hardened warriors! Oh, and in case I forget to mention it, the race was set out as a 5k up a narrow track into the mountains where it was “Run or Die!” followed by at least another 5k of obstacles designed to show me just how unfit I was. I managed to get to a point in the track where I could step to the side and wait for my heart to stop pounding in my ears. Then I took the rest of the race at a jog/walk pace. By the time the obstacles came around I was looking forward to some fun. Nope. The first thing I saw was an above ground pool filled with ice water. Brrrrrr. Next up was a pyramid of hay bales, set up in a quagmire of mud. My legs turned to jelly on that one. My favorite of all the obstacles was the underground tunnel, where I lay down and rested my head for a few seconds, only to hear the grunts of someone behind me. The obstacles only got worse. A wall to climb, surfaces covered in soap, because why not? At last I saw the finish line! To get to the end of this torturous day I had to jump over a fire. Yup, real flames. Why not? I couldn’t feel my legs anymore anyway. I still have the participation medal they gave me, it hangs in my office as a warning to be aware of my limitations. So why am I doing this again? Well it has been several years since the last race and one of those aging things I forgot to mention? Forgetfulness. So yes, in a moment of careless folly I forgot my past pain and let my enthusiastic children sway me into signing up again. Still I have plenty of time to train, and how hard could it be?
Catherine Uretsky Editor, It’s A Grand Life Magazine info@estrellapublishing.com 623.594.9283
Estrella Publishing is a proud member of the Surprise & Peoria Chambers of Commerce and Local First Arizona.
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Out & About
Frustrated while flying? Here are 5 smart ways to keep your cool There was a time decades ago when taking a flight was truly a privilege. People looked forward to comfy seats, cold drinks and friendly service. Today? Not so much. With the cramped seating and impossibly long security lines, flying is the unpleasant grunt work of travel - something you endure to make it to the better thing. But travel pros know the best ways to soothe their nerves in the face of even the most aggravating situations.
Below are five big annoyances on commercial flights, and smart strategies to help you cool your jets and deal with each. As you can see, new technology is helping to make flight much more enjoyable than you’re probably used to. Inflight annoyance No. 1: Noisy passengers Whether the toddler in row 15 is throwing a fit, or your neighbor continually wants to strike up a conversation, few things are more annoying on a flight than noisy passengers. This is where a pair of noise-canceling headphones is worth the investment. While dampening the surrounding sounds, these will help you focus on your work, a movie or even sleep. Even better, they send a clear signal to the world that you’re not available for idle chit chat. Inflight annoyance No. 2: Seat kickers Many parents have been on both sides of the “seat-kicking” issue. Of course no one wants to feel their chair kicked, but it’s harder
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to prevent than a lot of nonparents think. Little kids move fast, and 2-year-olds aren’t the best listeners. A recent survey by YouGov shows most respondents (55 percent) said they are annoyed having their seats kicked or hit when flying. The key to staying calm is dealing with the situation early and politely. Turn around with a smile and ask the child’s parent if they could help their child to not bump the seat in front of them. You might even suggest putting a carry-on under their feet to rest their legs on. Finally, stay patient. The parents want a peaceful flight just as much as you do. Inflight annoyance No. 3: Flight delays There’s no need to get worked up when you get the bad news that your flight will be late due to maintenance issues. Instead of getting frustrated, use the extra time to treat yourself. Grab one of those chair massages in the concourse. You’ll feel more relaxed, plus the muscle rubdown will send a message to your brain that everything is OK. Besides, you may not get many chances in the future to treat yourself because technology advances are starting to cut back on the length of these maintenance delays. For example, GoDirect Maintenance Services from Honeywell Aerospace wirelessly connects mechanical systems to maintenance crews, so they can quickly address potential mechanical issues. They’ll know what the plane needs even before it lands, saving time
and keeping operations smooth. By reducing troubleshooting time by up to a whopping 25 percent, that means less downtime for airline flights and fewer delays caused by maintenance. Inflight annoyance No. 4: Terrible Wi-Fi service Besides being charged a bundle just for internet access, passengers are often disappointed by what they get: dropped service and the inability to use the Wi-Fi for things they really want, like streaming music and movies. Preparation is key to staying calm, so before the plane takes off, keep your device stocked with movies, albums and books. But one day soon, that won’t be necessary. Inflight annoyance No. 5: Dry cabin air It’s much easier to relax when you are comfortable, and the easiest place to start is with your airplane outfit. Wear moisturewicking active wear to keep things breathable in a warm environment, but be sure to stash a fleece jacket in your carryon so you can warm up if the temperature drops. Here’s to a more pleasant travel experience for all.
September 2017
Home Sweet Home Shared housework may be the true language of love, survey says The key to a better relationship may not be in long walks on the beach or romantic dinners, it may actually be in discovering how your partner values chores. According to recent studies, chores have a direct impact on relationships more than previously thought. For example, a recent survey of 1,000 Americans age 18 and older, commissioned by home appliance leader LG Electronics, found 58 percent believe someone who’s good at chores, like folding sheets, is also more likely to be better between the sheets. Cleaning is caring Would you feel more appreciated when your partner does household chores or buys you a gift? Among Americans with a
live-in partner, nearly half (48 percent) would rather receive a free pass from chores for a month than designer jewelry or tickets to a big game (52 percent). To improve your relationship with chores, consider delegating according to your priorities. For example, if one partner hates the sight of dishes in the sink while the other can’t stand spots on the bathroom mirror, the sink-minder can load the dishwasher while the spot-hater takes care of wiping up the bathroom vanity. There’s no better way to say “I love you” than a sink free of dishes and a spotless mirror. Sorry with suds Do you prefer to come home to a clean house after a feud rather than to a romantic dinner? Clean dishes, vacuumed floors and folded laundry are preferred over an apology by most Americans. In fact, nearly one in five Americans would rather have a
partner do household chores after a fight than apologize. Good, clean flirting Have you ever bragged to your partner about cleaning the bathroom or doing the dishes? Women (57 percent) are more likely than men (46 percent) to get turned on when their partner does a chore. Couples should discuss division of housework and establish a plan for who will do what. Don’t focus on a 50-50 split. Instead, emphasize working together as a team, and looking at chores as teamwork, rather than “your work” and “my work.” This can also be a way to spend time together while having some good, clean fun. Payback is a dish Have you ever purposely mixed your partner’s laundry after a fight? Surprisingly, you’re not alone. One in four admit to messing up their partner’s laundry intentionally when angry with their significant other. While seeking revenge through household chores may seem like a relatively harmless way to express anger, try more constructive ways to communicate. While every couple is unique, it turns out the love of shared chores is fairly common - and it may just be that housework is the true language of love.
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Peace On Earth Live Today “Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing!” (Isaiah 43:18-19a) We have a creative God who is always ready with something new. This scripture passage is a prophecy about the coming of Jesus. However, it is also applicable to our willingness to embrace the new thing God is doing in our lives when things fail to remain constant. Stuff happens and our loving God guides us into the new. Just when we believe we’ll remain in our current position until retirement, the job is relocated or eliminated. Just when we think we’ve purchased our final home, we must move. When we think we’re set financially, the market changes. When we find the new club or activity, the facilitator moves. Life is about moving into ‘new normals’. Little stays constant
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and we resist every change. If we aren’t careful, we begin to live in the past – longing for ‘the way things were.’
next corner, more spontaneous,
However, if I had remained a teacher, I would have missed the joy of pastoring a church! If my children had remained little, I would not have the joy of grandchildren.
This is true if we don’t get stuck in the past. Don’t spend your energy on what is past. Enjoy the memories and look forward. Live in today. Embrace the new normal. Choose to be open to the best in the new normal. Pray asking God to show you the good parts in the change.
If my daughter had not moved to Alaska, I would not have the excuse to take vacations there. If I had remained in Flagstaff, it’s true I wouldn’t have to live in the heat of Phoenix, but I also would not have made all the great new friends to add to the friends I still have in Flagstaff. If my first perfect dog had lived forever, I would not have enjoyed three remarkable dogs since. Change stretches us and causes us to grow. We become more adaptable, more resilient, more willing to try something new, more willing to start the conversation with a new person, more willing to volunteer, more eager to see what’s around the
We discover we can embrace and thrive with change.
What new thing is God calling you into? Is it time to try out a new ministry? Is it time to be bold and embrace your gifts? Is it time to step out of your comfort zone? God is not in a rut. As a creative God, He is always turning our challenges into something new. Let’s join Him! Submitted by Rev. Valerie Fairchild, pastor of Spirit Song church meeting in Vistancia
September 2017
Heads Shoulders Knees & Toes
3 activities to help you move safely after knee surgery
Most patients undergoing knee surgery want to know when they’ll be able to return to a painfree, active lifestyle and do the things they once enjoyed before knee pain took over. For 58-yearold Kathleen Cohan, this meant a desire to return to mountain biking, hiking and skiing activities she had always loved to do as a youth and continued to enjoy with her husband in their hometown of Golden, Colorado. Cohan recently participated in a clinical trial to treat persistent knee pain caused by a meniscus tear. After receiving the NUsurface Meniscus Implant - the first “artificial meniscus” - she completed a six-week rehabilitation program and was ready to return to doing the things she loved. “The NUsurface Meniscus Implant changed my life. It feels great to not have to worry before I choose an activity about how much pain I’ll be in afterward,” Cohan says. “My husband and I recently went on a 100-mile mountain bike trip, and I climbed a 14,000-foot peak last month and my knee didn’t bother me at all. The implant gave me a chance to extend my activity level as long as I possibly can.”
activities to help you move safely after knee surgery: 1. Walk (don’t run!). Experts say walking outside your home three to five times each day is one of the best ways to regain your knee strength. While you may need to adjust the length of your step and speed, you will be able to spend more time walking for exercise once your muscle strength improves. 2. Dance. While you should avoid high-impact moves like jumping or lifts, ballroom dancing and gentle modern dancing are great ways to use leg muscles, engage in aerobic activity and have fun! Just be sure to avoid abrupt movements or twists that could potentially put your knee out of alignment. 3. Swim. Once the wound has healed, many people choose swimming as their exercise of choice as it’s not a weight-bearing activity and therefore reduces stress to the joints. If your knee is still a bit tender, opt for water
aerobics or pool walking. Want to mix it up? You can feel safe doing many other recommended activities such as yoga, golf, boating, aerobics or rowing. If you have experience prior to your surgery doing more intense activities, like Cohan, your doctor may give you the goahead to resume cycling, hiking, cross-country skiing and doubles tennis. Whichever activity you choose, remember that rushing into activities before you’ve recovered sufficiently may put you at risk for complications, so be sure to check with your doctor first before resuming any activity after meniscus surgery. To be eligible for the NUsurface Meniscus Implant clinical studies, you must be between the ages of 30 and 75, and have pain after medial (the inside of the knee) meniscus surgery at least six months ago. To find a study site near you, visit www. activeimplants.com/kneepaintrial.
Three months after surgery, most patients have completely recovered and are able to return to many activities that were too painful or difficult previously. Once you’ve been cleared by your doctor, the safest way to restart activity after meniscus surgery is to find activities that avoid placing unnecessary stress on your knee joint. Here are three It’s A Grand Life
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One man’s struggle with PTSD, 40 years later Bobby Barrera’s career as a Marine ended abruptly at age 21. While in Vietnam, on his first mission, a land mine explosion took his right hand at the wrist and left arm at the shoulder, and left him with severe burns over 40 percent of his body and face. Coping with the physical challenges of his injuries and struggling to find a new purpose for life was almost easy compared to dealing with the psychological impact of war trauma: something that would remain with Bobby for the next 40 years. Bobby went on to marry and have a family. His children had children, and he created a fulfilling and meaningful life for himself. He returned to college to earn a master’s degree in guidance and counseling. For nearly four decades, Bobby counseled veterans with mental health challenges caused by war and volunteered with DAV (Disabled American Veterans), a veterans service organization that helps veterans of all generations get the benefits and services they’ve earned. He went on to become the national commander of DAV in 2009. What Bobby didn’t realize - or want to admit -
was that for more than 40 years, he was suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). It wasn’t until Bobby and his wife moved to San Antonio, Texas, to retire that his PTSD symptoms became overwhelming. After moving, Bobby felt immediately lost. Being new in town, losing his network of friends, no longer working and coping with chronic pain triggered long-suppressed symptoms of PTSD. Soon, the nightmares began. Then came mood swings, increased anxiety, and feelings of isolation and hopelessness - and eventually, thoughts of suicide. Bobby’s wife pushed him to seek help - which led to a PTSD diagnosis. He questioned how he could have overlooked his own signs of PTSD for so many decades, while helping countless other veterans who struggled with it. PTSD symptoms are caused by experiencing traumatic events and not by an inherent individual weakness. Roughly 15 percent of
PTSD
Vietnam veterans are impacted by PTSD, and an estimated 20 percent of recent war veterans have symptoms of PTSD or depression. It can lead to a higher risk for unemployment, homelessness or suicide. Bobby is learning how to cope with his diagnosis. He is meeting more people, getting involved at church and spending time with his family. He began to volunteer again. His recovery is ongoing. Bobby credits his wife for encouraging him to ask for help and believes that doing so gave him yet another chance at life. If you are struggling with symptoms of PTSD, you are not alone. Resources are available at www.DAV.org/veterans/resources. If your situation is critical, please call the Veterans Crisis Line at 1-800-273-8255.
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Senior Health
Understand what you need to do to stay healthy over 65
“Every year thousands of adults in the United States suffer from serious illnesses, are hospitalized or even die from diseases for which vaccines are available,” said Dr. Otha Myles, Infectious Disease Physician at Medical Specialists of St. Luke’s Hospital in Saint Louis, Missouri. “But adults can reduce this threat by talking to their doctor about the facts of adult immunization and about their personal risk of catching a potentially serious disease.” According to a Pfizer Inc survey of adults aged 65 years and older, 67 percent describe themselves as taking an active role in maintaining their health.However, many misconceptions about adult immunization still persist, preventing Boomers from taking the important step of vaccinating against serious diseases. Read below for 5 Common Myths and Facts about Adult vaccination: Myth: Vaccines are for children, adults don’t need to get vaccinated. Fact: While many are familiar with the Centers for Disease and
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Prevention (CDC) vaccination schedule for children, the CDC also has recommended immunizations for adults depending on their health and age. All adults, even healthy ones, should talk to their doctor about the potential risks and the importance of staying up-to-date on CDCrecommended vaccinations. Myth: Vaccination is only for the very elderly. Fact: The immune system naturally weakens as people get older, putting even healthy and active adults as young as 65 at risk for diseases such as pneumococcal pneumonia, a serious and potentially lifethreatening illness that can strike anyone over 65, anywhere, anytime. Myth: Healthy adults don’t need to get vaccinated. Fact: The young at heart may not feel they are at risk for vaccinepreventable illnesses because they live an active lifestyle and take good care of themselves. But our immune system naturally weakens as we age, and adults 65 and older are at an eight times greater risk of being hospitalized with pneumococcal pneumonia compared to adults younger than 50.
Myth: Vaccines are not proven to be effective. Fact: According to the CDC, vaccination is the safest, most effective way to protect yourself. Myth: Adults only need to get the flu vaccine. Fact: The CDC recommends several vaccinations for adults dependent on their age and health-factors. However, flu season is a good time to speak to healthcare providers about staying up-to-date on CDCrecommended adult vaccinations. Beyond just getting the flu vaccine, adults, particularly those 65 and older, should discuss vaccination against other potentially serious diseases, such as pneumococcal pneumonia, with their doctor. Take the opportunity to speak with your healthcare provider or pharmacist about getting vaccinated. For more information about immunization and vaccination options, visit www. cdc.gov/vaccines.
September 2017
Superfruit 4 surprising health benefits of cherries - this summer’s superfruit Have you ever said no to a cherry? Probably not. This summertime treat is simply delicious. And if you’re looking for another reason to indulge, you’ll be pleased to know that cherries are surprisingly good for you. Recent research indicates that this summer’s superfruit offers a variety of health benefits, including the four outlined below. Reduced risk of heart disease and diabetes Research from Michigan State University found that 20 cherries provide 25 milligrams of anthocyanins, which reduce inflammation by shutting down the enzymes that cause tissue inflammation. This helps protect the arteries from the damage that leads to heart disease. Further research shows that those same anthocyanins also help lower blood sugar levels in animals, leading scientists to
speculate that a similar blood sugar lowering effect could occur in humans.
people who ate sweet cherries showed reduced levels of uric acid.
In addition to being packed with anthocyanins, cherries also have a low glycemic index, making them a good choice for people with diabetes. Foods with a high glycemic index cause blood glucose to soar and then quickly crash. In contrast, foods with a low index, like cherries, release glucose slowly and evenly, helping you maintain a steady blood sugar level - as well as leaving you feeling full longer and potentially helping you maintain a healthy weight.
Sleep support via melatonin
Combating arthritis and gout
Fiber for weight loss
More than 8.3 million Americans suffer from gout, a form of arthritis characterized by severe pain, redness and tenderness in the joints. This condition is commonly associated with elevated levels of uric acid in the blood. A study conducted by researchers at the University of California at Davis found that
Most Americans’ diets are fiberdeficient, falling short of the 2535 grams per day recommended by the USDA Dietary Guidelines. These guidelines recommend two cups of fruit daily, and cherries are an easy and delicious way to meet that target.
Everyone understands the value of a good night’s sleep, but sometimes your body simply doesn’t want to cooperate. When you find yourself wide awake and restless, your melatonin levels might be low. Melatonin is the chemical that controls your body’s internal clock to regulate sleep and promote overall healthy sleep patterns. Studies show that cherries are a natural source of melatonin.
Enjoy a bowl of superfruit today In addition to all these health benefits, cherries also possess cancer-fighting properties, according to a study by the USDA’s Western Human Nutrition Research Center. So whether you’re looking to boost your health or you enjoy the taste of this juicy treat - or both - there are plenty of reasons to reach for a bowl of cherries for your next snack or to add them to the menu at your next meal. Whatever your preference, be sure to get them quickly before cherry season is over. To learn more about the health benefits of cherries, visit NWCherries.com.
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Living With Faith A glimpse into the future Recently I watched a movie in which a man took 4000 pictures of the same street scene over a period of 4000 days. At first I thought that this was strange. But after reviewing in my mind that particular scene I began to realize that even though the picture was of the same street scene the characters changed because different people walked in front of the camera. What does this have to do with the future? – A lot! Year after year we repeat the same mistakes, look for kindness from a caring and loving God, hope that our lives will be less complicated. And it seems that the picture remains the same – different characters appear in each snapshot of life, but basically we are the same as our ancestors before us and if we could fast forward we probably would see the same ahead. Every time we read the Scriptures indicating the beginning of everything, we realize that life can take strange turns and sometimes requires another look so to make sense of it all. As we read we learn that Abraham is asked to submit to the will of God and present his son Isaac as the ultimate offering of fealty. Can anyone here imagine answering such a call? If we know anything about who we are as a people,
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we surely accept the fact that we bend over backwards to offer our children the best that we can and attempt to shield them from harm and danger. We are the first to show pictures of our children and grandchildren ad nauseum. Can anyone really believe that we would take our child and kill him or her in the name of God?
The lesson we learn from the “Beginning” is that we are born with free will, moral responsibility and accountability. There is no free ride. If, however, we want to be a partner with God in perfecting that which He put before us, then we need to accept the duty that is incumbent upon us.
Well, neither could Abraham, and for that matter, Sarah – she dies soon after this encounter – not clear in her mind as to what was happening or why or how God, who so lovingly granted her wish for a child, would want to retake that which was given. So much has been written about this chapter and the opinions vary. But the one clear message, to me, is that while God may not really require such obedience, it is evident that our mind can suggest ways for us to exonerate ourselves from our misgivings and in so doing cast the burden on our progeny. We do it all the time – we scapegoat instead of taking responsibility – we blame others for our shortcomings.
On the one hand, we are asked to make sacrifices. On the other, we are asked to take responsibility. They are in fact connected sometimes being responsible requires sacrifice. This involves acknowledgement and willingness, admitting that we are who we are and therefore must answer for our actions and be eager to submit to the task of saying we are sorry.
Another part of Genesis relates to the creation of existence, as faith would have us believe. It emphasizes God’s role in history. It sets forth our views and values on civilization. It describes God as wholly sufficient, independent of nature – the unchallenged sovereign of the world who is involved in human affairs. He is the God of history and He is the God of creation – the creation of the human spirit. God and the spirit of humanity are woven together to complete the event of creation.
God does not really want us to complete the deed – just make the attempt. Maybe then we will not be so hard on ourselves and our supplications and contrition will have meaning for us. Yes, it is the same picture year after year, but while the scenery does not change, the people in the foreground do – each new generation seeking to find the answer – each generation seeking the understanding of God. A story I once read described a teacher wishing to instruct a small boy on God’s ability to be everywhere, asked him to show every place that God can be found and he would be rewarded with a penny. The boy looked at the teacher and suggested that if he would show him a place where God is not his (the teacher’s) reward would be two pennies. Is there a better answer? Rabbi Irwin Wiener, D.D. Sun Lakes Jewish Congregation National Chaplain, Jewish War Veterans, USA
September 2017
Money Matters New ways to comparison shop for health care As our nation seeks solutions to help improve the health care system, there is at least one goal we can all agree on: the importance of making health care quality and cost information more accessible to all Americans. This is an important effort that has the potential to help improve health outcomes and make care more affordable - laudable goals considering the nation’s health care system ranks among the least efficient in the world, according to a recent Bloomberg analysis. More widespread use of health quality and cost resources may be part of the solution. Providing health care prices to consumers, health care professionals and other stakeholders could reduce U.S. health care spending by more than $100 billion during the next decade, according to a 2014 report by the Gary and Mary West Health Policy Center. That is in part because there are significant price variations for health care services and procedures at hospitals and doctors’ offices nationwide, yet a study by Families U.S.A. concluded that higher-priced care providers do not necessarily deliver higher-quality care or better health outcomes.
Americans have used the internet or mobile apps during the last year to comparison shop for health care, up from 14 percent in 2012, according to a recent UnitedHealthcare survey. These resources are far more accurate and useful than those of past generations, and in some cases provide people with estimates based on actual contracted rates with physicians and hospitals, including likely out-of-pocket costs based on their current health plan benefits. Some resources also include quality information about specific physicians, as determined by independent standards. There are many resources people can consider when shopping for health care. In addition to online and mobile resources, people can call their health plan to discuss quality and cost transparency information, as well as talk with their health care professional about alternative treatment settings, including urgent care and telehealth options. Public websites, such as www.uhc.com/ transparency and www.guroo. com, also can help enable access
to market-average prices for hundreds of medical services in cities nationwide. These resources can help people save money and select health care professionals based on objective information. A UnitedHealthcare analysis showed that people who use online or mobile transparency resources are more likely to select health care providers rated on quality and cost-efficiency across all specialties, including for primary care (7 percent more likely) and orthopedics (9 percent more likely). In addition, the analysis found that people who use the transparency resources before receiving health care services pay 36 percent less than non-users. As people take greater responsibility for their health care decisions and the cost of medical treatments, transparency resources are becoming important tools to help consumers access quality care and avoid surprise medical bills.
Fortunately, there are many new online and mobile resources that help enable people to access health care quality and cost information, helping them to comparison shop for health care as they would with other consumer products and services. And people are starting to take action: nearly one third of It’s A Grand Life
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Yum Yum Age ferociously with this eating game plan A healthy diet and lifestyle are our best weapons against agerelated diseases, and for staying healthy and active throughout life. Becci Twombley is sports dietitian for USC Athletics and Angels Baseball. The healthy practices she employs to keep her athletes fighting strong also apply as preventative measures for staying fit and active as we age. “It’s vital at any age to adopt good habits to live a long and healthy life,” says Twombley. Diet has a profound impact on two of the leading causes of age-related illnesses and conditions: inflammation and being overweight, according to Twombley. “Maintaining a healthy heart and blood vessels are two of the most important things anyone can do, along with keeping one’s weight under control.” Eating a healthy diet does not need to be a chore, she claims. It
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is all a question of smart choices. Picking the right foods not only makes a difference in health risks, but also positively affects performance throughout the day at work and at home. While the answer is not in a single food, or even a handful, adding nutrientrich foods like these Twombley recommends, and calls the “All Americans” of the functional food group, is part of a winning game plan. Pistachios Pistachios are a multitasking nut that has proteins and healthy fats, as well as three types of antioxidants. Those antioxidants help to decrease blood pressure and allow for good muscle recovery. Large population studies show that people who regularly eat nuts, such as pistachios, have a substantial lower risk of dying from heart disease or suffering a heart attack. Pistachios may protect from heart disease in part by improving blood cholesterol levels. Pistachios contain relatively high levels of the amino acid L-arginine, which maintains the arteries’ flexibility and enhances healthy blood flow by boosting nitric oxide, a compound that relaxes blood vessels. They’re also good for the eyes and skin, and have been found to positively promote weight
maintenance. Cherry juice Twombley serves tart cherry juice to her athletes after their workouts as its targeted antioxidants help with muscle recovery, improving recovery time. In addition, it boosts sleep quality to help prevent anxiety and stress later on in the day. Greek yogurt Plain Greek yogurt is a nutrientpacked snack that has many health benefits. High in protein, it can boost energy and muscle mass, which decreases as we age. It can also benefit digestive health if it contains probiotics. Check the label to see if it contains live and active cultures. Beets The deep red root vegetable increases the size of blood vessels, thereby improving the flow of oxygen that can get to muscles and tissues. For anyone with high blood pressure or suffering from cardiovascular disease, this is a good food to include. Milk A good hydration beverage that has protein, vitamin D and calcium like we often hear, milk also contains electrolytes for good muscle contraction. Salmon and grass-fed beef Both of these are high in omega-3, which is a really good healthy fat profile for overall heart health. They also decrease inflammation in the long term. Inflammation causes a lot of the diseases we fear as we age, whether it’s diabetes or cardiovascular health. Plan out what you’re going to eat that day and stick to it.
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Please Join Us for an Informative and Interactive talk on “Maintaining Control with a Living Trust”
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Already have documents? Are your POA’s older than 3 years? Are they fully funded? Do you have Community Property language?
Life Starts and Ends with Family...How do I Protect Mine? What do I need?
Hampton Inn & Suites Tues. September 19th, 2017 at 11:00 a.m. & 5:00 p.m.
14783 N Grand Ave Surprise, AZ 85374 ALDP #81403
Where to Begin? Seating is limited so register today!!!
Meal Provided
Why Plan?
Mita Club at Vistancia Wed. September 13th, 2017 at 5:30 p.m.
30500 N 131st Ave Peoria, AZ 85383
To Attend Register Online…
at www.premieraz.net/events/ Or Call 602.371.8898
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September 2017
PET PARADE Pets help seniors stay healthier and happier, wherever they live, studies show French novelist SidonieGabrielle Collette once said, “Our perfect companions never have fewer than four feet.” Pets provide meaningful social support for owners, and they can be especially beneficial for seniors. Ample research shows pet ownership delivers physical and mental health benefits for seniors, regardless of whether they’re living on their own or in a senior living community. However, many older Americans still mistakenly believe moving into a senior living community means they’ll have to leave their pets behind. In fact, the fear they’ll have to give up a beloved pet is among the top emotional reasons seniors don’t want to move into senior living, according to author and senior real estate specialist Bruce Nemovitz. In an informal survey by Nemovitz, seniors ranked losing a pet as emotionally jarring as having to
leave their familiar homes and possessions.
pets, Cummings suggests a few questions to ask:
For many senior citizens, pets are an important part of their lives. It makes sense to preserve the bond between pet and senior owner whenever possible.
* What is your pet policy and what type of animal do you consider a pet? Generally, small dogs, cats, birds, rabbits, rats, hamsters, fish, turtles and other small companion animals qualify for pet policies. Seniors should check to be sure their pet meets the standards of the community.
Physical benefits Pet ownership benefits senior citizens in multiple ways, research shows. Older people who own dogs are likely to spend 22 additional minutes walking at a moderately intense pace each day, according to a recent study by The University of Lincoln and Glasgow Caledonian University. Multiple studies have also concluded that pet ownership can help lower blood pressure, contribute to improved cardiovascular health and reduce cholesterol. Mental health Interacting with pets also has many mental health benefits, especially for seniors. Spending time with pets can help relieve anxiety and increase brain levels of the feel-good neurochemicals serotonin and dopamine. Pets can help relieve depression and feelings of loneliness. The online journal Current Gerontology and Geriatrics Research reports multiple studies indicate dementia patients who interact with animals become more social, are less agitated and have fewer behavioral issues. Pets in senior living settings “For too long, some senior living communities didn’t recognize the value of allowing residents to bring their pets with them,” Cummings says. “That has definitely changed.”
* What is your pet health policy? Typically, senior living communities that accept small pets will want them to be current on all vaccinations and have regular exams by a licensed veterinarian. Pets will also need to have any required state- or county-issued licenses. * What, if any, kind of training do you require pets to have? Requiring dogs to be housetrained and cats to be littertrained is standard. Communities will also want to know your pet is well-behaved and not aggressive. They may ask you to have pets obedience trained. * Do you offer any assistance with pet-related tasks? Most communities will require residents be able to care for pets themselves, including feeding, walking, potty needs and health needs. “Moving into a senior living community is a big change, one that most residents find positive,” Cummings says. “They gain freedom from home maintenance tasks and household chores, a socially rewarding environment, and as-needed support for healthcare and daily care. As long as seniors are still able to care for their pets, there’s no reason they shouldn’t be allowed to bring their best friends with them to their new homes.”
For seniors looking for a community that will accept their It’s A Grand Life
September 2017
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Life As A Caregiver Music and Dogs….
One of the frustrations a caregiver experiences is that there isn’t much you feel you can do to improve your loved-one’s situation. Things that work for one patient may not work for another. But my motto is…. ’it’s worth a try’! One thing that is helpful to Alzheimer’s patients… and to my mom…is music. Here’s what some experts have said: “Music has power — especially for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. And it can spark compelling outcomes even in the very late stages of the disease. When used appropriately, music can shift mood, manage stressinduced agitation, stimulate positive interactions, facilitate cognitive function and coordinate motor movements. This happens because rhythmic and other well-rehearsed responses require little to no cognitive or mental processing. They are influenced by the motor center of the brain that responds directly to auditory rhythmic cues. A person’s ability to engage in music, particularly rhythm playing and singing, remains intact late into the disease process because, again, these activities do not mandate cognitive functioning for success.” Music therapists who work with Alzheimer’s patients describe seeing some people “wake up” when the sounds of loved and familiar music fills their heads. It seems to be somewhat true for my mom. As far back as I can remember, she was always singing around the house. As a kid, I grew-up learning a lot of old songs because my mom would sing them constantly. And even now, she will sing while
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she’s in the bathroom or when the house is quiet. No telling why she picks out a certain song, but she usually remembers the lyrics…and when the doesn’t, she hums it anyway with “dee-dee”s and “duh-duh”s. Her voice is still quite good and she’s even on tune most of the time. It’s funny, because it’s just like many of us. We can’t remember things we did last week, but we can hear an old rock ‘n roll song on the radio that we probably sang a thousand times when we were oh so much younger, and we remember every word like it was yesterday!!! Another positive stimulation for Alzheimer’s patients is a pet. Particularly a dog; our furry friends; our canine companions; our service champions. I can speak from experience here when I say that my dog Buddy has been the BEST medicine for my mom’s Alzheimer’s disease than anything else we could have possibly administered to her.
Most of us dog lovers and owners have known for years that dogs are great reducers of stress, anxiety and depression, they can ease loneliness, encourage exercise and playfulness, and add real joy and unconditional love to our lives. So imagine the impact they have on someone with Alzheimer’s?
dogs while being unable to do the same to another human being. The reasons continue to be studied, but more than any other animal, dogs have evolved to become acutely attuned to humans and our behavior and emotions. While they are able to understand many of the words we use, they’re even better at interpreting our tone of voice, body language and gestures. A loyal dog will look into your eyes to gauge your emotional state and try to understand what you’re thinking and feeling…. and will react accordingly. Buddy loves his “grandma” and watches over her in a much different way than he does me. It’s like he knows that she is indeed special cargo and ‘needs him’. And when she talks to him (and she does often….but she talks to me, often, too!), he listens intently. So do I. So… the lesson here is: let music AND dogs help both you and your Alzheimer’s family member. Because you both will benefit immensely! Submitted by Kathy Linton, West Valley Resident
Studies have shown that when therapy dogs have made visits to local rest homes, and particularly the Alzheimer’s unit, patients often respond and speak to the September 2017
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September 2017
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Puzzles & Games Sudoku for September
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This month we have a super easy puzzle. Try teaching your grandchildren how to solve this puzzle, or if you are a beginner then give it a try!
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Numbers from 1-9 must appear only once in each row, column and box. Good Luck!
1. What is easy to get into, but hard to get out of? 2. A boy fell off a 100 foot ladder. But he did not get hurt. Why not? 3. You go at red, but stop at green. What am I? 4. The more you take, the more you leave behind. What am I? 5. You can see me in water, but I never get wet. What am I? 6. What has cities, but no houses; forests, but no trees; and water, but no fish? 7. What belongs to you but others use it more than you do? 4. 5. 6. 7.
1. Trouble 2. He was only on the first step 3. Watermelon! You eat the red part, and you stop eating at the green part. Footsteps A reflection A map Your name
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September 2017
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September 2017
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24 It’s A Grand Life
September 2017