Passion and
Perseverance with Maxine & Kirt Earhart
The Powerful Brain Benefits of Interaction p. 20
Take a Hike Along Florida’s Trails p. 34
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Volume 46 PUBLISHER Jackie Carlin CREATIVE DIRECTOR Ashley Heafy GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Katie Styles, Sarah Brown EXECUTIVE EDITOR Doris Bloodsworth PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Jill Middleton SENIOR DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS Emily Cummings
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CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
George Diaz, Chef Collette Haw, Amy Sweezey, Teepa Snow GROWING BOLDER PRESS CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Marc Middleton PRESIDENT Robert Thompson NEWSLETTERS
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CONTENTS
April 2021
in every issue
10
6
YOUR TAKE
7
NOTE FROM THE CEO
9
GROWING BOLDER WITH
10
ORDINARY PEOPLE LIVING EXTRAORDINARY LIVES
Life on four wheels is a ticket to freedom
12
TRANSLATING TECH
The gig economy for experienced professionals
feature 30
PASSION AND PERSEVERANCE
Couple serves up good times, good food and good relationships at their Orlando restaurant
florida travel 34
GO TAKE A HIKE ALONG FLORIDA’S
PRISTINE TRAILS
Explore the natural beauty of the state parks
heal 15
POWERED BY PLANTS
Plant-based smoothie with bold flavors
20
INTERACTION HAS POWERFUL BRAIN HEALTH BENEFITS
Learn to support loved ones with dementia
finance
30
25
THE HEALTH-WEALTH CONNECTION
Learn how to take a holistic approach to your total well-being and finances
36
PROTECT YOUR HEALTH AND YOUR WALLET
Tips on how to protect your identity and finances
connect 16
FEELING ISOLATED?
Hidden health risk for older adults
27
TIPS FOR NEW CAREGIVERS
COVID-19 created a new generation of caregivers, but help is available
YOURTAKE What’s one thing you’re really proud of but wouldn’t put on your resume?
I’ve just finished crocheting my first ever blanket. It’s huge and gorgeous and I’ve never done anything like it before and it took me a year!
Skydiving on my 70th birthday! —Sharon Grissom Fisher
—Rebecca Jones
Completed a college level paralegal certificate program at 60! Surviving my childhood and all my later mistakes to become “me”. Still a work in progress —Max Pivac
😁
—Darlene Craven
I turned into an amazing adult despite growing up in the ghetto. I did the Edgewalk on the CNN tower in Toronto. Which consists of walking on a 5 ft ledge 1500 ft high around it .. leaned over the edge forward and backwards ...and I’m deathly afraid of heights.
—Mary Crowley
—Carole Owen
I can drive a zamboni. —Toni Trombecky
We managed to adopt a baby, raised her with love and wonderful memories, and support her in the accomplishment of her B.S., M.S. and Ph.D. —Wendy Enriquez
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I can almost do the splits for the first time at almost 56!!!! —Julie White
NOTE FROM THE CEO
How has the pandemic impacted your personal relationships? Multiple studies have found that 73% of U.S. adults in relationships said quarantine has actually strengthened their connection with their significant others. Forced pandemic togetherness surprisingly helped many couples bond as they worked together to adapt to the unforeseen, instantaneous and far-reaching changes in their professional and personal lives. This issue of Growing Bolder Magazine features a George Diaz story on Kirt and Maxine Earhart. Kirt and Maxine have one of the most popular and critically acclaimed neighborhood restaurants in Florida. They are, to put it mildly, hands-on owners. But when the pandemic struck, like all restauranteurs, their lives were turned upside down and their livelihood was threatened. Like all couples, their relationship was challenged in unprecedented ways. How could they find their way forward? How could they work together to keep their shared dream alive? Their story will make you smile. It’s one of love, belief, and resilience. It’s a story of Growing Bolder. How we respond to the never-ending challenges of life determines, to a large extent, the quality of our life moving forward. Resilience is one of many gifts of growing older and it’s a muscle we’ve all had to develop during the pandemic. To paraphrase Charles Darwin, it’s the not strongest or most intelligent species that survive. It’s the most adaptable to change.
How we respond to the never-ending challenges of life determines, to a large extent, the quality of our life moving forward.
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noun Positive lifestyle modification: exercise, diet, rest, and stress reduction.
Wellness today and every day. Go to growingbolder.com/prehab to register n ow at no cost! AIRING 4/20
MEDICARE
GROWING BOLDER WITH
Rosie Perez Rosie Perez spent her childhood bouncing around group foster homes and dealing with her mother’s schizophrenia. Despite the odds, she knew she was destined for greater things in life. “Even as a little child, I always knew I was better than the situation I was placed in. I just needed an opportunity,” she said. “I readied myself for success. I made sure my mind was sharp for any opportunity that presented itself.” That opportunity came at 19 when a “Soul Train” scout saw her dancing in a club. Even though she wasn’t a professional dancer, she seized that opportunity; and before long, she was choreographing dances for “In Living Color” and music videos for the likes of Janet Jackson and Diana Ross. By 24, Spike Lee cast her in “Do the Right Thing” and the rest is history. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Perez was one of the first well-known figures to contract the virus. She was diagnosed with the emerging virus while shooting the HBO Max series “The Flight Attendant” in Thailand in late 2019. “I had contracted COVID when we flew to Bangkok,”
56 Perez told the publication Uproxx. “And at that time, they were saying ‘It’s a new respiratory tract infection. We don’t really know what it is and what it does. It was terrifying. I remember my manager was with me, and I said, ‘Tarik, don’t let me die in Bangkok.’” Perez recovered and finished shooting the critically acclaimed show after productions opened back up with new safety protocols in place. Perez became an outspoken advocate of wearing masks and even recorded a series of PSAs for the public transportation systems in her hometown of New York City. Today, the Oscar-nominated actress wants other women to know not only are they, too, capable of incredible things, she wants women to celebrate their achievements. “Women should start patting themselves on the backs, especially the ones who have overcome such great difficulties. I don’t want them to shy away from their strength and their courage. I’m really proud of myself, and I want other women to feel proud, as well,” Perez told Growing Bolder.
Theo Wargo / Staff via Getty Images
IN E VERY IS SUE : GROWING BOLDER WITH
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Photos: Jacob Langston
“It’s never too late to find that thing that’s going to help you find your balance.”
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Charles Dasher L I F E O N FO U R W H E E L S I S A T I C K E T TO F R E E D O M
Where you live can have a major impact on how you live. How you live can define who you are. No one believes that more than Charles Dasher. At the age of 56, he made a big change. He sold his townhome, fit what he could into his Airstream RV and moved into Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park, a large campground in the Jacksonville, Florida, area. “I had been curious about what they call camp hosting,” he explains. “It’s where you’re out being a host at the campground, and you live full-time in your camper. I found that to be a romantic idea; but also, it fit a necessity as I needed a place to live.” He grew up nearby, where his favorite pastime was windsurfing. Now, he was living in a heavily wooded area along the Atlantic Ocean. Instead of a neighborhood full of cars, kids and clutter, Dasher was surrounded by, “coyotes along the trail, eagles in the trees and alligators by the lake.” Dasher felt refreshed, renewed. “What a difference,” he noted. “This change of lifestyle has been a sanctuary, a total escape. I’ve never felt more grounded.” The trappings of life, of work and of aging had been weighing heavily on him. Letting go of material things helped lighten the load in ways he did not expect. “There’s been a ton of noise in this head for a lot of years,” he said, pointing to his temple. “Living like this let me get quiet enough to actually know myself, understand myself and truly be my own best friend once again.” In one way, he has less than he used to have; but he now has so much more.
“It’s forced me to simplify,” he said. “I’m less judgmental and more forgiving. I’m no longer busy with things that don’t really matter, and I think it has made me a more empathetic person.” Nature is his yard, and the ocean is his playground. If Dasher is not in his camper, you are most likely to find him on his mountain bike or riding the waves hydrofoil surfing. It’s where he feels the most energized, passionate and ageless. “I don’t feel old,” he said. “Sometimes the body aches, but my spirit is so fulfilled out here. That’s what I get by staying active, and living here makes it so easy.” The change in lifestyle was an adjustment; but for Dasher, the timing was perfect and offered him lessons he never expected to learn. “It’s never too late to find that thing that’s going to help you find your balance,” he said. “I’m enjoying my life so much more since I’ve gotten to where I understand who I am. I have let a lot go — not just physical things. I feel unburdened, refreshed and ready for some new adventures.”
Photo: Jacob Langston
I N E V E R Y I S S U E : O R D I N A R Y P EO P L E L I V I N G E X T R AO R D I N A R Y L I V E S
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TRANSLATING TECH The gig economy for experienced professionals Emily Thompson
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The traditional 40-hour workweek in an office is a thing of the past. How about working from a laptop on a beach in Thailand instead? Clients and talent both benefit from the flexibility of project-based work. Experienced professionals have the opportunity to work remotely while still earning rates commensurate with traditional executive jobs. Opportunities range from business consulting to architecture and engineering. Clients benefit from the ability to hire talent quickly who can deliver specific projects and expertise without the overhead of a full-time employee.
TalMix
Upwork
TalMix.com connects talent and companies in more than 150 countries. Opportunities for talent range from project-based work to interim projects and even full-time employment in 100+ sectors. The experience level for TalMix’s 400,000+ consultants ranges from junior consultants to c-suite level executives.
The largest of the freelance websites, Upwork.com is used by 5+ million businesses globally. Work is available for short-term tasks, recurring projects and full-time contract work. The site is free for clients to search candidates and for freelancers to create profiles. Clients approve work through upwork.com before freelancers begin their scope. Invoicing and payment are also made through the Upwork website.
Ɂ Free for consultants, companies pay a fee for talent placement Ɂ TalMix handles invoicing and payment between parties Ɂ Consultants compete for projects based on the strength of their proposal Ɂ Clients give consultants a ballpark budget range, and consultant negotiates final details
Guru Guru.com freelancers have experience in a variety of professional services, including web development, advertising, sales and marketing, finance, graphic design, architecture and engineering and law, among others. Employers post jobs and freelancers create a profiles to search listings and to apply. Clients can pay by project milestones, by task, by the hour or use recurring payments. Clients pay a 2.5% transaction fee each time they pay an invoice. Ɂ 3,000,000 members worldwide Ɂ 1,000,000 jobs completed Ɂ $250,000,000 paid to Guru freelancers
Graphite Graphite.com vets consultants, executives and boutique firms for clients looking for specific domain-knowledge and functional experience. They vet their growing talent pool of 5,200+ so that clients can find the talent efficiently. Graphite Experts are experts in their fields. Clients can post listings to the website, call or email account managers for help specifying the scope of work, required skills and time required for the engagement. Graphite handpicks candidates for clients to interview over the phone or in-person. Clients and experts use the Graphite website to manage the engagement and handle contracting and billing. Ɂ 800+ consultants with Big-3 consulting experience (Bain, Boston Consulting Group, McKinsey) Ɂ 65% of experts have advanced degrees from top programs (MBA, Ph.D., J.D., etc.) Ɂ 12-15 years of experience working at top firms
Ɂ 170+ countries Ɂ Price work by the hour or set a fixed price Ɂ Freelancers pay a 20% fee on their first $500 of transactions, then the fee drops to 10% per transaction Ɂ Clients pay a 3% transaction fee when they pay their freelancers
Toptal Toptal.com is an exclusive network of freelance project managers, software developers, finance experts, designers and product managers. To ensure that they are providing top-rated talent, only 3% of freelancers who apply to find work through Toptal are accepted. Clients include Fortune 500 companies as well as small businesses. Toptal provides a no-risk trial period for clients when they hire a freelancer. Clients pay a $500 initial fee which is refunded if they decide not to hire a freelancer. Clients also pay an hourly rate, which is significantly more than the rate actually earned by the freelancer. Ɂ Global network of talent Ɂ Only 3% of freelancers are approved to work with Toptal clients Ɂ No-risk trial period for employers
MOST PROFESSIONAL WO R K I N T H E G I G E C O N O M Y I S LO C AT I O N I N D E P E N D E N T. WO R K R E M OT E LY F R O M ANY WHERE WITH A WIFI CONNEC TION.
invincible_bulldog via Getty Images
I N E V E R Y I S S U E : T R A N S L AT I N G T EC H
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VIRTUAL
PREMIERING
LIVE EVENT
JUNE 10, 2021 ON
ANNOUNCEMENT:
Join Growing Bolder for an
INTERGENERATIONAL
GAMING TOURNAMENT!
10 teams of 2 — each consisting of one member over 50 and one member under 50 — will play the popular game Among Us live on the streaming platform Twitch, competing to win an epic prize package worth over $5,000. Tune in to watch on June 10, or register your team now for a chance to compete! H O S T E D BY:
To learn more, head to GrowingBolder.com/BolderX
TOURNAMENT SPONSORED BY:
14
GROWING BOLDER / APRIL 21
Marc Middleton
Matt Heafy
Growing Bolder Founder and CEO
Musician and Twitch Streamer
Powered by Plants Plant-based smoothie with bold flavors
Photo: Jacob Langston
Chef Collette Haw
HEAL
Spring is a time for new colors, new flavors and new habits. More and more people are opting for a plant-based eating plan, and this vibrant smoothie recipe features a delicious way to incorporate more fresh produce into your diet. Simply toss these ingredients in the blender in the morning for a healthy breakfast bursting with bright flavors and essential vitamins and nutrients, such as Vitamin C found in the mango and orange juice and healthy fats in the chia and flaxseeds. Plus, once you have the basics of smoothie making down you’ll be able to customize your flavors and toppings with items such as coconut shreds, nuts and cocoa nibs — all providing a wide range flavors and textures. Over the past year we’ve all realized that taking care of our health is more important than ever; and if you keep your pantry stocked with some of these healthy, plant-based ingredients, you’re helping your body fight off future infections. Be well.
Sunshine Smoothie Yields (1) 12-ounce smoothie
INGREDIENTS ½ cup frozen mango ½ teaspoon fresh turmeric ½ teaspoon ground flaxseed ½ cup fresh squeezed orange juice Chia seeds for garnish
DIREC TIONS Place all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth. Garnish with chia seeds if desired.
Calories 116, fat 1g, cholesterol 0mg, sodium 3mg, carbs 26.3g, fiber 2.1g, protein 1.8g
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Feeling Isolated? Hidden health risk for older adults Amy Sweezey
For months, people have been following the advice of medical professionals and state leaders to “stay home” and “stay safe.” Knowing the coronavirus can be lifethreatening, especially to older adults, everyone has been encouraged to reduce the risk of exposure to themselves and to others. But sheltering at home can mean isolation from family, friends and activities that keep humans engaged in life. Directors at the Texas A&M Center for Population Health and Aging are studying social connectedness in older adults and the detrimental effects of social isolation and loneliness on physical and mental health. The study shows that the safety guidelines to self-isolate from the pandemic have inadvertently created new health risks for older adults by leaving them more isolated and inactive than ever before. Even before the pandemic began, studies showed that nearly a quarter of older Americans felt socially isolated, and about a third of middle-aged and older adults experienced loneliness. That isolation often leads to other health issues: chronic disease, psychiatric disorders, declining cognitive function, depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts, even premature death. Of course, staying at home also makes living a healthy lifestyle more difficult, including the challenge of trying to eat well and exercise. Without exercise, muscles can weaken. Inactivity can lead to weight gain, declining heart function and decreased lung capacity.
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The Texas A&M directors recommend the following steps for older adults to stay active and engaged despite social isolation:
Stay physically active.
Plan your day.
FInd exercises that can be done at home or around your house.
Keeping a routine adds value and meaning to your day.
Know your risk. Assess whether or not you are at risk for negative impacts from isolation.
Stay connected. Don’t live in fear.
Think of others. Reach out to friends; volunteer.
Accept help.
Don’t be afraid to leave home, but do so wisely. Follow CDC guidelines.
Remain open to accepting kindness and support from family, friends, health care providers or social service agencies.
Staying connected is key despite the pandemic’s need for social distancing. Here are a few ideas: 1. 2. 3. 4.
CONNECT
Phone calls Online platforms and social media Online learning Internet-based volunteering
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I may be old, but I got to see all the cool bands.
FOR MORE DAILY MEM E S :
@GrowingBolder Jason Hetherington via Getty Images
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MEDICARE
Moved to Florida in the last 60 days? You may now qualify to switch Medicare Advantage plans!
To learn more visit GrowingBolder.com/Medicare or to speak to a representative call 1-844-396-2579.
Florida Blue and Florida Blue Medicare are Independent Licensees of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. © 2021 Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida, Inc., DBA Florida Blue. All rights reserved. Y0011_105413 2021_C
Interaction Has Powerful Brain Health Benefits Learn to support loved ones with dementia Teepa Snow
Social connections, social purpose and social support are three critical factors for living a life with satisfaction when dementia is part of living. Studies have shown that people who live with dementia, and yet stay engaged, will have a higher quality of life, with fewer emergency health events. Why is social interaction and engagement with a purpose so vital to humans? When we socialize, our brains get really active, they work hard. It’s like exercise for the brain. Positive social engagement produces hormones and chemicals that are essential to our wellbeing and survival. Endorphin, dopamine, serotonin and oxytocin are powerful chemicals that keep us going. The lack of these chemicals can result in failure to thrive, loss of interest in survival and possibly the production of adrenaline and cortisol to compensate. Cortisol, a stress hormone that is produced when we feel threatened, also creates significant health risks associated with it when it is released too often and too long, including an ever-changing, brain-altering condition like dementia. Therefore, social and physical engagement in life plays a key role in sustaining wellbeing when dementia is part of life. People who are socially isolated are more likely to develop symptoms of dementia than those who stay socially active and involved in purpose-filled lives.
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PM Images via Getty Images
People who develop dementia, and establish a support system and life that keeps them involved and engaged in ways they still find satisfying and rewarding, experience less distress, fewer episodes of acute crises and have less need for emergency services. Good news: social networking and social engagement is possible, even at the very end of life with dementia.
HEAL
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People who do not initiate social interactions, or who exhibit some of the more common symptoms of living with dementia, are more likely to be left out of social opportunities. Dementia’s impact on language, impulse control, initiation, sequencing, use of logic, working memory, visual fields and skills, interests and ability to sustain focus or disengage focus affect social-interaction skills and opportunities. Deciding to decline offers to engage in social events and activities the person has always found enjoyable, because changes could be revealed, is common. If I have dementia, and I am aware of my changes, I may hesitate. If I have no awareness of my changes, “anosognosia,” I may cause others to become alarmed or distressed with my changed performance, behaviors or reactions, thus reducing their interest in issuing invitations. The challenge, for those not living with the disease inside themselves, is to build new awareness, knowledge and skill. Learning how to adapt expectations, to modify offers of engagement and connection and to provide effective social support to match the changing abilities and needs of the person on the other side of the social equation requires commitment and flexibility. The good part about doing it, is that it is actually good for your brain as well. Learning how to socially interact with people living with dementia is not rocket science. It simply takes a willingness to modify old habits, change old routines and learn some new ways of training yourself and your brain to adapt and communicate. Simple techniques, such as offering the person time to process; making sure you are within visual range; pausing for responses; offering your hand in a friendly, familiar way; using a supportive stance; sequencing your cues; using either/or options for choices and using positive action starters rather than yes/no questions all play a role. These techniques are outlined in greater detail in Positive Approach® to Care methodologies.*
Five Ways to Reduce Your Risk of Dementia 1 Notice and use positive coping strategies to manage distress. Start by pausing and breathing deeply from your diaphragm.
2 Get the ”just-right-amount” and duration of sleep. Consider getting any sleep issues investigated and practice good sleep hygiene.
3 Get or stay socially connected in meaningful and enjoyable ways. Sometimes animals, children or environments are good ways to connect with people as well.
4 Exercise with pleasure. Get your body and your brain to do something active and invigorating each day. Try dancing with a partner or walking the dog.
Did You Know? Positive social interaction can boost these powerful hormones, which are great for brain health as well as overall mood!
5
Endorphin Serotonin Dopamine Oxytocin
Teepa Snow is a dementia expert with 40 years of clinical and academic experience. She provides training and consulting for healthcare professionals and families. To learn more about her company, Positive Approach® to Care, visit www.teepasnow.com.
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Eat moderately, eliminate junk food and replace intake with doing something of value.
WAT C H O U R V I D E O W I T H T E E PA S N OW N O W
We delight in the beauty of the butterfly, but rarely admit the changes it has gone through to achieve that beauty. – Maya Angelou
FOR MORE DAILY MEM E S :
@GrowingBolder Mojtaba Fahiminia via Unsplash
Florida’s Aging Connection Since 1955
ADVOCACY The Florida Council on Aging (FCOA) supports various policy and funding issues that allow older adults to age with dignity in a safe environment.
EDUCATION FCOA provides the general public with information and resources for : + older adults + caregivers + people who work with elders FCOA connects experts and peers to share new research and best practices. Together we serve Florida’s diverse aging interests.
COMMUNICATION FCOA provides timely, educational updates on issues that affect caregivers, decision makers, professional service providers and older adults. Members receive this information through our e-newsletter, social media and health messaging posters and flyers for senior centers.
MEMBERSHIP FCOA has been Florida’s Aging Connection for 65 years, with diverse members in all 67 counties. We help members with a wide range of business and community initiatives such as: + pilot project consultation and hosting + employment announcements + grant opportunities + forming of a task force + volunteer opportunities
JOIN THE FLORIDA COUNCIL ON AGING Share your wisdom. Learn innovative best practices. Make a difference. Become a member at FCOA.org or by calling 850-222-8877.
+ continuing education 24
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The Health-Wealth Connection Learn how to take a holistic approach to your total well-being and finances Jackie Carlin
For Jeannette Bajalia, money is personal. It’s not all about facts, figures and investments. It’s about integrating all aspects of your life into one life plan. It’s a lesson she learned the hard way. When she was just 26 years old, she found herself thrust into the role of primary caregiver of her newly widowed mother. Her father died unexpectedly at the age of 63, leaving her mother with a mortgage, no life insurance and a $542 monthly Social Security check. Bajalia stepped in to take care not only of her mother but of a great aunt, too. It would be a role Bajalia would fulfill for 33 years. At the age of 55, Bajalia retired after a successful career as a corporate executive and sought out retirement planning help and support. She was stunned by what she discovered. “I approached five financial advisers thinking that they understood the difference between planning and investing. And after the fifth financial adviser, I realized they didn’t know. They couldn’t differentiate,” she said. “The key to success in any retirement journey is having the appropriate plan to determine how much money you need to accomplish the lifestyle you’ve spent 30, 40 years dreaming about.” Those experiences in financial advisers’ offices, coupled with what she had learned taking care of her mother, inspired her to launch her company Woman’s Worth, which is dedicated to changing the way individuals and families approach retirement planning. “I decided there needed to be a transformation in how baby boomers were served by the financial industries,” Bajalia said. “I consider myself an integrated retirement planner. I’m a life planner. I believe in strategic life planning because you have to think of the future in the context of today.” She said there are some key things she wants everyone to understand: One of the greatest risks to retirement is the escalating cost of health care, both routine health care and long-term care.
The financial industry focuses too much on finances and not enough on total well-being. There is an epidemic of women 70 and older living in poverty due to stepping in and out of the workforce to care for children, spouses or parents. This can have dramatic implications on future Social Security earnings. One of the best things you can to do protect your future wealth is to start focusing on your physical health. It’s what we at Growing Bolder call the Health-Wealth Connection, and it’s an idea Bajalia supports. “You can have all the money in the world, and you could blow it in the health care system. And we don’t want that. You want to do the things that you’ve dreamed about doing,” she said. “When you’re planning for the future, you should be thinking about more than the money; it’s about total well-being. Total well-being integrates a multitude of disciplines.” Bajalia said it’s never too late to start planning for your health care; and to do that, start today to reduce your costs moving forward.
When you’re planning for the future, you should be thinking about more than the money; it’s about total well-being. “The top two preventative medicines are activity and socialization. Nothing is as powerful and effective. It’s the No. 1 investment that we can all make in our futures,” she said. Do your future self a favor and start integrating healthier habits into your everyday life. Better yet, invite a friend to join you; and together, you can start planning healthier futures for your bodies and wallets.
ilyaliren via Getty Images
FINANCE
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WE BRING YOU
Season 7 Growing Bolder will air on public broadcasting stations nationwide, so check local listings to find it in your area.
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GROWING BOLDER / MARCH 21
Tips For New
Caregivers
COVID-19 created a new generation of caregivers, but help is available Jackie Carlin
An estimated 44 million adults in the United States have provided unpaid care to adults ages 65 and older in the past 12 months. With 10,000 Americans turning 65 every day, the number of caregivers will continue to grow over the next two decades. During the COVID-19 pandemic, caregivers found themselves stretched thin in challenging and oftentimes heartbreaking new ways. Once again, this raised alarms that help, support and resources are critically needed for these invaluable helpers in our communities. As the pandemic approached the one-year mark, the Rosalynn Carter Institute for Caregiving released a report called “Caregivers in Crisis,” which focused on the impact of the COVID-19 crisis on the mental health and well-being of caregivers. In a survey of more than 400 caregivers across 46 states, 83% reported increased stress related to caregiving since the start of the pandemic. Dr. Jennifer Olsen, executive director of the Rosalynn Carter Institute for Caregiving, said their findings reinforced their worst fears about existing and new caregivers. “This is our emergency room moment; and if we do not begin to seriously address the needs of caregivers and provide the necessary supports, this indispensable, largely invisible component of our health care system is in danger of collapse,” Olsen said. One of the first things new caregivers should do is educate themselves about the role they’re taking on. “Don’t tell yourself that you know how to do this. There’s a lot to learn,” said Amy Cameron O’Rourke, who has more than 30 years of experience in health care, including 25-plus years in the field of aging, is a licensed nursing home administrator and is a certified care manager. “Get some really good books to read, do some research, go to educational series or workshops (many of which are now available online), and give yourself time to learn what you don’t know. Then seek professional help when you’re in over your head.” O’Rourke said it’s also important for families to learn how to advocate on their loved one’s behalf, a skill that takes patience to develop. She said that includes standing your ground with physicians.
“There are so many really good physicians; but they’re in a hurry, they’re on a time clock, they’ve got to pay attention to volume,” O’Rourke said. “They don’t always have the time required to have the conversation. So, I say, ‘If now’s not the time, let’s talk when you do have the time because this is important.’ I try to be nice, but very firm and say, ‘We’re not going to make a decision until we get the time we need to make the decision.’” O’Rourke advises her caregivers to give themselves grace to make mistakes and learn as they go. She said this is particularly true for adult children of older adults, many of whom try hard to be a perfect champion and caretaker for their aging parents. “These are the difficult decisions you’ll be faced with as a caregiver. Don’t put pressure on yourself to be perfect, to do everything right. It’s not possible,” she said. “Just be with your parent and understand that at times it’s going to be messy, and that’s really OK.”
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B E PAT I E N T. Encourage your care team,
including physicians, to hit pause before making big decisions. B E F I R M . These are your and your loved
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one’s decisions to make, and sometimes that means going against your physician’s advice. B E P R E PA R E D . Mentally and emotionally
prepare yourself that this may be your new reality for years ahead. B E AWA R E . Remember you’re advocating
for your loved one, not yourself. Follow their values.
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CONNECT
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Passion and Perseverance Couple serves up good times, good food and good relationships at their Orlando restaurant George Diaz
The menu at Maxine’s on Shine should come with a disclaimer. Somewhere below the Fried Green Tomatoes and Crab Cakes or the Skillet Lasagna, it should be noted that this funky juke joint restaurant on Shine Avenue, in downtown Orlando, has come close to shuttering its doors many times. It should be noted that owners Kirt and Maxine Earhart almost lost everything, including each other. And — maybe in boldface — it also should note why they are still standing, both professionally and personally: passion and perseverance. Every day that they open their doors is a tribute to their stick-to-it-iveness. They’ve made it to year nine, managing to survive five years of daily uncertainty. It did them a great deal of good in some ways. It prepared them, as best as possible, for another challenging twist: a global pandemic. “When Kirt would wake up, he’d go, ‘Bring it on. What have you got for me?’’’ Maxine said. “So, when COVID happened, it was like, ‘Babe, we got this. We’re going to make it work.’ He never had any hesitation.” Forced to shut down for a month, they amped up their takeout service for two months, and then they re-opened at limited capacity. They made creative use of their small parking lot by converting it into an outdoor space called “Islands of Dining,” placing cabanas, tables and chairs on wooden platforms. They strategically placed mannequins to keep customers socially distanced at the bar. Maxine — a former Miss New York — is the face of the place that bears her name. Her face (now masked) is on the logo. She is the one you will see greeting every customer. She will mix and mingle with old friends or newbies, and eventually she will take a picture to post on the restaurant’s Facebook page. There are 95,000 pictures on her Cloud. It’s very much her style, much like her eclectic wardrobe and signature red glasses.
F E AT U R E
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All of this reflects Kirt’s vision. When his wife initially pushed back on all the attention focused on her, he pushed back. “Oh, Honey, you’re a natural. This is going to be great,” he said. And it has been. The restaurant, nestled in the middle of a residential community off Shine Avenue in Orlando’s Colonialtown neighborhood, has earned yearly rave reviews for serving up one of the best brunches in town, otherwise known as the “Rejuiceanation Brunch.” Indoors and out, the vibe is, as Maxine calls it, “sexy, comfortable and delicious.” You will see nudes on the wall, courtesy of resident artist Panther Brunotte. You may also find a piece of Tampa Bay Bucs memorabilia on the wall, an homage to Kirt’s favorite NFL team. There’s an outdoor mural that reads: “Love You to the Moon and Back,” a favorite among customers. Also, there are the mannequins. Cracker Barrel, it is not. “I want that cozy kind of sexy vibe,” Maxine said. “And I want people to feel comfortable.” While Maxine is front and center, Kirt holds up the business end and counts the money. It was his vision to start the restaurant, a vision that wasn’t in sync with his first marriage. Kirt’s soon-to-be ex-wife had moved out six days prior to meeting Maxine at the Copper Rocket in Maitland. Eugene Snowden and the Legendary JC’s were playing that night in October, 2001. She looked at the wine menu and thought it was trash. He said he was the guy who put the wine menu together. And away they went. It was a bit of a rocky road for a few years. Maxine had a toddler from a previous relationship. Kirt struggled with the conflicting vibe of whether he was in a rebound relationship or whether it was true love. They broke up. They made up. Rinse and repeat. Their ability to ride out those storms prepared them for the dynamics of opening a restaurant. It’s a great business to be in if you want to lose money. About 60% of restaurants fail within the first year of operation, and 80 percent% shut down within the first five years. They opened Maxine’s on Jan. 6, 2012. Cue second act of “rocky road.” They hoped they would have a good weekend so they could make payroll. They scrambled when one of their servers got a DUI or their chef cut his finger. They woke up every morning wondering, “What next?” “We struggled,” Maxine, 61, said. “Everybody kept saying, ‘Oh, five years. If you’re in business five years, you’ll start to see...’ In five years, I was like, ‘Babe, can we please just sell the restaurant? We could get jobs at McDonald’s and make more money than we’re making now.’ And he’d be like, ‘No.’ “We were driving cars with no air conditioning in Florida, because we couldn’t afford to get our air conditioning fixed, because it was like $1,800. And there was an electric bill here or maybe even more than that. But I’m just saying we couldn’t. It was very difficult.”
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But they persisted — much like their personal life, which bleeds over into their professional obligations for much of the day. They moved in together in 2005 and married in 2015. The ceremony was at the restaurant, of course. And they had to do it a second time because the notary public, who initially married them, did so with an expired license. The party went on, since everyone, including the lovely couple, was oblivious to that fact. They have their dustups, like everyone else does, and their coping mechanisms. Kirt, 55, has a bush he passes on the walk from the parking lot to the restaurant, and that marks the spot when he shuts down the personal stuff and makes it strictly business. Maxine has her own marker. It’s in the bathroom of their Maitland home. In her own letters, in orange ink, it reads: “Apologizing does not always mean you are wrong and the other person is right. It just means you value your relationship more than your ego.”
Everybody kept saying, ‘Oh, five years. If you’re in business five years, you’ll start to see...’ In five years, I was like, ‘Babe, can we please just sell the restaurant? We could get jobs at McDonald’s and make more money than we’re making now.’ And he’d be like, ‘No.’ It’s not easy because their relationship is in the proverbial bubble. There’s no getting out, even though they take the occasional separate day off together. “It’s important that you have your shared time as a couple, and then you have your time to identify as the individual that you are,” Kirt said. “Compound that with being people that you are, while working through a crowd where levels of expectations are high. And you have to believe and trust in your relationship with one another, knowing that everything that you do and say is on full display to the public. “So, it is tricky at times. Because we both have our own ways of how we handle situations or the way that we talk. But we’ve known that for years, and that’s who we’ve become. We understand and appreciate one another.” It’s the human connection that binds people to Maxine’s on Shine. It’s the personal and professional connection that binds Kirt and Maxine to each other. You won’t find that anywhere on the menu, either. But all you have to do is look around. The eyes don’t lie.
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Go take a hike along Florida’s pristine trails Grab your hiking boots or sneakers. We’re going to take a hike. Even without the majestic mountains of some other states, Florida is rich with natural beauty that can be explored with your walking feet. Scenic hikes abound, whether you’re in for a few miles or more adventuresome. Here are five of our favorites nestled in the heart of our state parks.
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Ocala National Forest North Central Florida |
fs.usda.gov/ocala
Be prepared to consider a long stretch of options. You’re looking at 673 miles of land, multiple trials and a whole host of scenic opportunities. Situated north of Orlando, the area is known for its large sand pine scrub forest. Wanna get wet? Check out the Juniper Springs, Alexander Springs and Salt Springs recreation areas that feature natural pools and canoe runs. Recommended options include the Francis Trail (7.8 miles). A moderately trafficked loop trail located near DeLand, it features live oaks and cabbage palms. The hike is considered moderate. Another excellent spot is the Hopkins Prairie, with views including live oaks covered in moss. It is also excellent for birding, with areas occupied by songbirds and wading birds.
Everglades National Park Homestead |
nps.gov/ever/index.htm
Where to start in a park that includes 1.5 million acres of subtropical wilderness in South Florida? The park is home to hundreds of animal species, coastal mangroves, sawgrass marshes and pine flatwoods. Many options abound along this expansive park, but one of our favorites is the Anhinga Trail. This one is short and breezy (0.8 miles total) but it packs a lot to take in as you mosey along: a self-guiding trail winds through a sawgrass marsh that features alligators, turtles, anhingas, herons, egrets and a variety of other birds, especially during the winter. The abundance of wildlife makes it a must-see.
Little Talbot Island State Park Jacksonville |
floridastateparks.org
Located in Jacksonville, this gem encompasses a five-mile stretch that includes ancient dunes, pristine beaches and a secluded barrier island. Your activity options include kayaking, beachcombing, fishing, hiking and surfing. Please note that you are in North Florida, so the beach will be flat, hard packed and grayish in color. As one reviewer noted, it’s a “great place to become one with nature, it’s like your own private beach.”
F L O R I DA T R AV E L
Bulow Creek State Park Ormond Beach |
floridastateparks.org
We’re talking expansive. Located north of Ormond Beach, Bulow Creek encompasses nearly 5,600 acres, more than 1,500 of which are submerged lands. There are seven trials. So where to start? Check out Bulow Woods Loop. Located near Flagler Beach, this 5.3-mile loop stretch features beautiful wildflowers and appropriate for all skill levels. It features plenty of shade, but also can be wet and humid and buggy. It is considered one of North Florida’s most scenic hikes.
Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park (Micanopy) Gainesville |
floridastateparks.org
Located just outside Gainesville, this park is a time-trusted favorite. You had us at “wild horses,” that you can see along some trials, along with buffalo. You’ll get the obligatory gator photo op as well. As a reviewer noted, it offers “breathtaking prairie views reminiscent of the west. We saw white-tailed deer, wild horses, green and brown anole lizards, a ribbon snake, spiders, many species of plants and a variety of unusual and beautiful fungi and lichens.” There’s an observation tower as well, so bring those binoculars. G R O W I N G B O L D E R / VO L . 4 6
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Protect Your Health and Your Wallet There are many reasons to cheer as COVID-19 vaccines begin rolling out across the country, but there is also reason to be extremely cautious. COVID-19 fraud schemes abound, as scammers are using telemarketing calls, text messages, social media platforms, and door-to-door visits to try to rope in trusting people to prey upon.
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HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF
If you receive a recorded call from a number that looks suspicious, the call is likely fraudulent or malicious and you should hang up immediately. Do not respond to prompts to “press 1 to speak to the operator or get your name taken off the list,” and do not provide any personal information. If you respond, you’ll probably get more calls. Block the numbers of the robocalls you receive, although please be aware that those calls may continue from other numbers. Scammers use “spoofing” technology that makes the same calls appear to come from different numbers.
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A DV E R T O R I A L C O N T E N T
THINGS TO KEEP IN MIND The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has compiled resources and materials to help partners like Florida Blue Medicare share important and relevant information on the COVID-19 vaccine. Here are some key points and facts worth remembering:
Don’t share your Medicare Beneficiary ID number or pay for access to the vaccine. That’s very likely a scam.
Don’t pay to put your name on a list to get the vaccine. You can’t pay to get early access to a vaccine.
Don’t share your personal or financial information if someone calls, texts, or emails you promising access to the vaccine for a fee.
Guard your red, white and blue Original Medicare card like it’s a credit card.
If you suspect COVID-19 health-care fraud, report it immediately online with the Department of Health and Human Services Office, or call 1-800-HHS-TIPS (1-800-447-8477).
Medicare advisors are there for you as well to report anything suspicious. Call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227). TTY users can call 1-877-486-2048.
IS THIS A SCAM?
For suspected fraud/ scam related questions visit floridablue.com. Click About Us, then Ethics and Compliance.
It’s not just about protecting your money and identity. It’s about protecting your health. Florida Blue Medicare encourages older adults to not only take advantage of the COVID-19 vaccine but also other potentially life-saving vaccines. Ask your primary care doctor if you’re due for the annual flu shot, pneumonia vaccine, shingles vaccine or Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR) booster shot. When you make your health a priority, you not only protect your health but your family’s health as well. Plus, if you’re a Florida Blue Medicare Advantage member, you can earn a $10 gift card through HealthyBlue Rewards just for getting your flu shot. Learn more at floridablue.com/healthyblue.
Florida Blue and Florida Blue Medicare are independent licensees of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association. We comply with applicable Federal civil rights laws and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex. For more information visit floridablue.com/ndnotice. ©️ 2021 Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida, Inc., DBA Florida Blue. All rights reserved. Y0011_101112_C 0421 C: 04/2021 Y0011_101112_C 0421 EGWP C: 04/2021
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