Prime Time Monthly October 2020

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Printed on recycled paper Volume 30 | Issue 10

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October 2020

October 2020

FOR NEW MEXICANS 50+ SINCE 1990

MONTHLY

Medicare Open Enrollment Begins This Month pg 5

Covid-19 And Its Connection With Your Oral Health pg 8 ptpubco.com

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October 2020

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Table of Contents

FEATURES

4 Ask A Health Care Prefessional

13 Savvy Senior – Coronavirus Versus Flu: How To Tell The Difference

COLUMNS 7 The 58-Year Struggle For The 9 12 14 15

Absentee Ballot Prescription For A Better Life Dr. Barry Ramo Bugman The Doc Is In – Dr. Muraida Herb Doc

EVERY MONTH 10 Classifieds 11 Crossword

New Mexico PBS Presents

October 2020

NEPAW – National Estate Planning Week

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n 2008 Congress designated the third week in October as National Estate Planning Week.

This year it’s scheduled for October 19-25, 2020.

Estate planning is an oftenoverlooked element of financial wellness. It’s estimated that over half of Americans do not have an up to date estate plan.

Estate planning is defined as the process of anticipating and arranging, during a person’s life, for the management and disposal of that person’s assets acquired during the person’s life, after death.

The purpose of estate planning is to develop a strategy that will maintain the financial security of individuals through their lifetime and ensure the intended transfer of their property and assets at death. In addition to providing for families and loved ones, as estate plan can also provide support to charitable causes that matter most to the individual, enriching a community long after a person’s passing.

NMPBS provides resources to assist donors with their plans such as the FREE Digital Personal Estate Planning Guide which

will be available at www.nmpbs. org/estateplanning beginning October 1, 2020.

The resource provides a place for information to be organized— online or hard copy--giving viewers an outline for an informative conversation with advisors.

This guide will help viewers gather: • personal information, including family contacts • healthcare information, including medical providers • The types of assets owned, and • A list of advisors. This communication is for informational purposes only. Be sure to consult with your legal advisors about your personal financial situation.

NMPBS operates as a 501(c) (3) charitable organization in conjunction with the UNM Foundation. Charitable gifts to NMPBS support programming and programming services on NMPBS. For more information, please contact Theresa Spencer, Development Director, NMPBS tspencer@newmexicopbs.org (505) 277-1225

If you have Medicare questions, I can help

Looking for better Medicare Advantage and prescription drug plans?

Now is the right time to review your current Medicare coverage—and maybe strengthen it. Let’s make sure you have the benefits you really want in 2021.

Sometimes the help you need is finding the right answers to your questions and sometimes it’s finding the right plan for your needs. At Humana, it’s always about putting you first.

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Call a licensed Humana sales agent

Humana MarketPoint office Albuquerque 505-468-0500 ext. 0 (TTY: 711) Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Applicable to Humana Gold Plus HMO H0028-025-002.

At Humana, it is important you are treated fairly.

Humana Inc. and its subsidiaries comply with applicable Federal Civil Rights laws and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, ancestry, marital status or religion. English: ATTENTION: If you do not speak English, langvuage assistance services, free of charge, are available to you. Call 1-877-320-1235 (TTY: 711). Español (Spanish): ATENCIÓN: Si habla español, tiene a su disposición servicios gratuitos de asistencia lingüística. Llame al 1-877-320-1235 (TTY: 711). 繁體中文 (Chinese): 注意：如果您使用繁體中文 ，您可以免費獲得語言 援助服務 。請致電 1-877-320-1235 (TTY：711) 。

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October 2020

Ask A Health Care Professional Wei-Ann Bay, M.D., Chief Medical Officer, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of New Mexico

N

o matter how old we are, we are always adapting to change.

Older adults face lots of changes — medical problems, retirement, death of loved ones, stressful life events, and now the COVID-19 pandemic. It is normal to have feelings of stress, anxiety and sadness about changes, but after a bit of time and adjusting, most can move on and feel well again.

However, if the negative feelings persist and interfere with activities of daily living and normal functioning, it may mean depression.

What is the difference between grief and depression?

Grief after loss of a loved one is a normal reaction to loss and generally does not require mental health treatment.

However, grief that lasts a very long time or is unusually severe following a loss may result in depression and require treatment.

Depression is not a normal part of aging. It is not a weakness nor a personal flaw. It is an actual medical condition — just like diabetes, hypertension and heart disease are medical conditions.

What are the risk factors and signs of depression?

Depression is often underdiagnosed.

Underdiagnosis can result in an unnecessary move to a nursing home, an uncontrolled chronic medical condition resulting in a hospitalization, or loss of independence.

Those who experience their first episode of depression later in life are less likely to have a family history of depression or other mental disorders than those whose first episode occurred earlier in life. Risk factors include social isolation, lower socioeconomic status, comorbid medical conditions, uncontrolled pain, insomnia, and functional or cognitive impairment. Females and people who are widowed, divorced or separated are also at higher risk for depression.

Common signs and symptoms of depression for all ages include persistent sadness, feelings of hopelessness or helplessness, loss of interest in activities that used to be pleasurable, decreased energy, difficulty concentrating and making decisions, difficulty with sleep, eating more or less than usual, thoughts of suicide, and frequent crying.

Older adults may not have the more obvious signs, such as sadness or crying. Instead they may be less likely to talk about it and more likely to present with somatic complaints (e.g., tiredness, heart palpitations, shortness of breath, body aches,

restlessness, nausea or vomiting), irritability, confusion, or attention or memory problems, which can look like dementia.

Finally, it is important to consider medication side effects, which can sometimes contribute to depressive symptoms.

What are the types of depression that can occur late in life?

Major depression: severe symptoms that interfere with daily activities; a subtype of this can present with delusions or hallucinations.

Persistent depressive disorder (also known as dysthymia): depressive symptoms that are less severe than major depression but last a long time, at least two years.

Minor depression: depressive symptoms that are less severe than major depression or dysthymia and do not last long.

Depression related to stroke and vascular changes in the brain is becoming more recognized. This is called “vascular depression.”

Depression can also be a complication of Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias. Presentation and treatment differ from the more common types of depression.

How do I get help?

If you think that you have depression, or if you think your loved one has depression, it is important

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to seek help immediately. Don’t wait it out or deal with it on your own. Untreated depression can lead to serious outcomes, such as other serious physical illnesses or suicide. A health care provider will review your medical history, medications and do testing to rule out other conditions that may be contributing to the depressive symptoms. Remember to be open and honest because this will help the health care provider find the right path forward. There are many effective treatments, such as medications and behavior therapy; and sometimes just talking with a counselor can be a huge benefit. If you or your loved is in a crisis, please immediately call 911 or visit the emergency room. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-2738255). The New Mexico Crisis Line is 1-855-NMCRISIS (1-855-662-7474).

If you have a health question that you would like to be considered in Ask a Health Care Professional, please email AskHealthcareProfessional@ bcsbsnm.com. BCBSNM will select questions that may appear. Questions will not be personally answered. The opinions expressed in this column are solely those of the author and not necessarily those of BCBSNM. This column is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical care.

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October 2020

Prime Time Publishing, LLC Home of Prime Time Monthly News Family Caregivers Resource Guide 50+ EXPO

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Contributing Writers

Dr. Wei-Ann Bay Richard Fagerlund Autumn Gray Jim Miller Dr. Gerard Muraida Dr. Barry Ramo Dr. Shellie Rosen, D.O.M. Charles Schlesinger DDS, FICOI Shannon Wagers Get news and see event pictures on our new Facebook page at facebook.com/primetimepublishing!

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Medicare Open Enrollment

By Autumn Gray

T

imes may never have been more challenging than they are now for seniors needing access to health care and trying to navigate their options for how to receive it. As the open enrollment period for Medicare recipients approaches this month, so does the onset of flu season, coupled with the continued threat of the novel coronavirus. Typically, local health care providers would be ramping up for a flurry of in-person educational seminars to help beneficiaries make informed choices about their medical insurance plans for the coming year.

Not so this fall.

About the only thing that’s business as usual is the enrollment period itself: Oct. 15-Dec. 7. During that time, anyone who is Medicare eligible (generally age 65, or any age and with some level of disability) may join, drop or switch plans, with coverage taking effect Jan. 1. Except for this constant, providers have made changes to their enrollment processes, plan pricing and benefits, and even to physician appointment options to ensure all are safe, accessible, and responsive to what their members have been requesting.

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of New Mexico (BCBSNM), Presbyterian Healthcare Services and Humana, for example, are all offering enrollment, workshops, and/or general open enrollment information virtually or over the phone.

“We’re doing everything we can to meet seniors in a space that they’re comfortable with because this is such an important decision,” said Janice Torrez, BCBSNM’s incoming president. “Even if they’re not shopping (for a Medicare health or

prescription drug plan), it’s important to make sure to understand changes to their existing plan because they don’t want to be surprised later when it’s time to receive services.”

It’s advisable for newly eligible or current Medicare recipients to compare Medicare basic plans with Medicare Advantage, for example. Medicare Advantage provides everything that basic Medicare does but may also provide prescription drug coverage and a number of additional providerdependent perks. Extra benefits may include gym memberships, transportation assistance to doctor appointments, vision and dental care, and even chiropractic and acupuncture visits in some cases.

For example, BCBSNM Medicare Advantage members have access to its popular SilverSneakers wellbeing program that provides avenues for physical activity, education, social interaction and a fitness center membership at no extra cost.

BCBSNM’s Advantage plan also provides a quarterly over-the-counter stipend and various rewards for taking preventive health care measures such as getting a flu shot, having an annua physical exam, or getting a mammogram or colonoscopy.

Mark Iorio, regional president of senior products for Humana’s Central West Region, emphasized Humana’s benefits around Covid-19: “Humana is continuing to waive all member costs related to COVID-19 testing and treatment, and you’ll also get 14 days of home-delivered meals if you’re diagnosed with Covid.” In addition to expanded telehealth services for members, Humana is making novel coronavirus testing easier with inhome Covid-19 testing, he said.

Iorio also praised Humana’s “award-

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winning mail order pharmacy,” transportation benefits, plans for veterans and over-the-counter health essentials kit.

Many Advantage plans also have some dental, hearing and vision coverage, but costs and extent of coverage vary by provider. Fewer offer broad alternative medicine coverage such as acupuncture and chiropractic services.

Jim Decker, director of sales for Presbyterian’s Medicare Advantage plans, said the network’s physicians and patients have requested a high degree of alternative therapy benefits, especially to help patients avoid pain medications like opioids.

“Our very own Presbyterian Medical Group doctors are saying we want that covered,” Decker said.

In addition, he said, “We learned that a prescription drug deductible is a hindrance to patients getting prescription drugs filled, so we lowered the cost to zero. … There’s no deductible for generic or brand name drugs.”

The most significant nationwide Medicare coverage change impacts renal patients. Before 2021, patients with end-stage renal disease were unable to enroll in Medicare Advantage plans unless there was a Medicare Special Needs plan available in their area for ESRD patients. But that is changing for 2021, under the terms of the 21st Century Cures Act. Not everyone will want or need to make adjustments to their plans, but people in a Medicare health or prescription drug plan should nevertheless review them to ensure their plans will continue to meet their needs in the next year. Providers say that when shopping for coverage or conducting research to ensure the plan you have remains the best for you, there are some fundamental questions to consider: • Look for a plan that includes your preferred physicians and hospitals • Compare out-of-pocket maximums • Ensure a plan covers your prescriptions, and look for one that has low or zero deductibles for prescriptions, both generic and brand name (The simplest way to check formularies is by visiting medicare.gov and filling out an online form.)

• Confirm that the pharmacies you are accustomed to working with are available • Check dental, vision, hearing, and/or mental health benefits • Find out if telehealth is covered and to what degree For more information about any of the insurers mentioned in this article and for general information, visit Presbyterian at Phs.org/medicare or 923.8458; Blue Cross and Blue Shield at Bcbsnm.com/medicare or 866286-6159, Humana at Humana.com/ medicare or 800.213.5286, and for the official U.S. government website for Medicare, visit medicare.gov.

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October 2020

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The 58-Year Struggle For The Absentee Ballot

By Shannon Wagers

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ith the novel coronavirus still hovering around like a malevolent ghost, voters across the country are being urged to avoid crowded polling places and to cast their ballots by mail in next month’s election. In New Mexico, unlike some other states, that’s relatively easy to do. (Contact your county clerk for details.) But that was not always the case. It wasn’t until 1968 that New Mexico allowed absentee voting—the last state in the nation to do so—and it took a ruling by the state Supreme Court to make it happen.

To understand why, we need to go back to 1910, when our state’s present constitution was written.

A unique feature of that document, as you probably learned in civics class if you went to high school in New Mexico, are the so-called “unamendable” sections that guarantee the rights of Hispanic citizens with respect to voting, education, and religious freedom.

Any proposed change to those sections must be submitted to

the voters for approval, and as originally written, the constitution mandated that the measure pass by a three-fourths majority statewide, and a two-thirds majority in every county—a hurdle virtually impossible to overcome in practice.

Moreover, the section requiring those extraordinary majorities (Article XIX) could only be altered by a complete re-writing of the document by a constitutional convention. While the intent was laudable, incorporating such inflexibility into the framework of government was bound to have unforeseen negative consequences.

Unfortunately, the 1910 constitution made no provision for absentee voting, and authorizing it would require language to be inserted into the section dealing with voting rights—one of the “unamendables.”

From 1919 through 1964, 11 attempts were made to pass such an amendment and, despite widespread support, each one failed. Ironically, a provision designed to safeguard voting rights had effectively disenfranchised anyone, including members of the armed forces serving overseas, who for whatever reason

was unable to go to the polls on Election Day and vote in person.

By 1967, New Mexico was the only state in the union that did not permit absentee balloting. The question was once again put before the voters in a special election held in November of that year. Opponents argued that absentee voting would lead to fraud, delay the reporting of election results, and cost too much money. (Sound familiar?) But it had the support of both major political parties, the League of Women Voters, the Municipal League, veteran organizations, and other “good government” advocates. Eighty-one percent of voters statewide approved the amendment, but it failed to attain the needed two-thirds majority in 12 counties, and the State Canvassing Board declared that the measure had been defeated.

Not so fast, said state Attorney General Boston Witt. Witt filed suit in the New Mexico Supreme Court arguing that the two-thirdsin-each-county requirement violated the equal protection clause of the 14th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution—the so-called One

October 2020

Person, One Vote rule—by giving a small number of voters in lesspopulous rural counties the power to thwart the will of an overwhelming majority of the state’s electorate. The court agreed, pointing out in its ruling that the requirement, in effect, gave a single vote in Harding County (where only 135 votes were cast) the same weight as 100 votes in Bernalillo County. On February 5, 1968, the court ordered the canvassing board to reverse its earlier decision and certify passage of the amendment.

In the years since, absentee voting has been made steadily more convenient in New Mexico. It is no longer necessary to state a reason for casting an absentee ballot; any voter may request one for any reason.

Ballot return envelopes no longer require postage, or they can be handdelivered to any polling location or drop-box. And we have the “inperson absentee” option, also known as Early Voting.

So, there’s no excuse for not voting. Whether you choose to vote by mail or in person, at an Early Voting site or on Election Day, please vote.

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Whether you’re already enrolled in Medicare, or you’re turning 65 and about to sign up for the first time, make sure your plan includes the physicians and facilities of Lovelace. With more doctors, more convenient clinic locations, outpatient rehab services and free screenings. Call our Lovelace Care Concierge today to find out more about Lovelace or to help you find a Lovelace doctor or facility near you.

Call 727.2727 to schedule a doctor’s appointment.

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October 2020

COVID-19 And Its Connection With Your Oral Health

By Charles D. Schlesinger DDS, FICOI

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he impact of the novel coronavirus on our lives is like nothing most of us have ever experienced. Aside from the shutdown of businesses, travel restrictions and the public mandates to wear a mask, this little virus is impacting our oral health in addition to being deadly to those that are in risk categories for the disease.

I am not going to go into details about the virus and its actions since we have been inundated for months about this by every news outlet in the world. One thing that research is showing though is that there is a direct correlation between the severity of COVID-19 infections and periodontal health. Emerging research has suggested there’s a connection between gum disease and SARSCoV-2, according to a new report, “The Mouth COVID Connection (MCC).” The review study, which has been accepted for publication for the October 2020 issue of the Journal of the California Dental Association (JCDA), suggests that hospitalized coronavirus patients with prior underlying gum disease can be at

higher risk for respiratory failure.

This alone should be a wake-up call for patients- DO NOT FOREGO DENTAL TREATMENT AT THIS TIME. Keeping your oral health at its highest level could save your life.

I do want to take this time to let you know about some of the issues that our Dental office and many of my colleagues are seeing as a result of how we are protecting ourselves daily from transmission.

Many of you may have noticed that you are experiencing “bad breath” or cracking at the corners of your mouth (angular chelitis), or worsening dry mouth lately. These conditions are directly related to the constant wearing of masks in public. This was first seen in the medical community by healthcare givers who were required to wear masks for 8hrs/day.

Now that the general public is doing the same, it is being seen there too.

The increased humidity and the tendency to breath through ones mouth vs their nose is allowing the oral cavity to dry out. Our bodies are a marvel of equilibrium, but when the scales tip one way or the other, bad outcomes can occur. In this case, the drying out of the oral environment decreases the natural

defenses afforded to us by our saliva and opportunistic bacteria and fungi can proliferate. Oral candidiasis is a white, pasty film on the tongue or oral mucosa caused by a fungal infection. This can be treated with oral medications.

The decreased salivary flow also contributes to an increased caries rate similar to that experienced by patients who have medical conditions or medications that cause dry mouth.

The good news is that these issues can be prevented and also treated by your Dentist. At home care is the key to prevention. Make sure you are brushing and flossing twice a day. It is also prudent to add tongue scraping or tongue brushing to your daily ritual. Also, refrain from using mouthwashes which contain alcohol, as these can further dry out the oral cavity. These actions will decrease the amount of bacteria or fungus that can grow in your mouth. If you have cracking at the corners of your mouth (where the upper and lower lips meet), contact your Dentist so he or she can prescribe an antifungal cream to treat it.

Finally, one of the other dental issues we are seeing is a rapid increase in the number of patients

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with cracked teeth. A cracked tooth can have symptoms that range from mild hot/cold or biting sensitivity, all the way to excruciating discomfort.

The theory of why we are seeing a rise in this type of pathology is directly related to the massive increase in stress this pandemic has caused on all our personal and professional lives.

Our normal reaction to stress is to clench or grind our teeth at night, or even during the day.

The average human can produce anywhere between 250 and 450psi of force in normal chewing. In situations where clenching occurs that number can be much higher. This can result in the fracturing of teeth or restorations.

At this point all we can do to try and prevent this is to find ways to simplify and de-stress our lives. Look at the good we have and embrace it.

A professionally made nightguard may also be used to prevent further damage from occurring. But, if the damage has already been done and you have symptoms, it is imperative that a Dental professional evaluate the situation and treat it accordingly.

Hopefully, this has shed some light on some of the indirect issues we all face these days when going through life during a pandemic. Be safe!

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October 2020

For A Healthy Life

Barry W. Ramo, MD, FACC • Director New Heart Fitness and Health • Cardiologist, New Mexico Heart Institute/Lovelace Medical Group

T

rying to determine who is going to have a heart attack and when they are going to have it has alluded doctors since the first diagnosis of a heart attack was made.

What is known is that the underlying problem is coronary artery disease.

Coronary artery disease is caused by plaque buildup in the wall of the arteries that supply blood to the heart.

Plaque buildup causes the inside of the arteries to narrow over time. This plaque contains cholesterol, calcium, and a variety of cells including inflammatory cells.

Risk for developing coronary artery disease is increased with a family history as well as certain risk factors including cigarette smoking, hypertension, diabetes, obesity, and high cholesterol. However, many people have these risk factors and never have a heart attack. Using a

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Inflammation The New Target To Prevent Heart Attacks risk stratification scoring system, we can predict who is at highest risk and lowest risk for heart attack, but not very accurately. We certainly can’t predict when it will happen.

For many years, heart attacks were thought to be caused by a gradual narrowing of coronary arteries in that when an artery reached the point of severe narrowing a heart attack would occur. In fact, that is not what is happening when a heart attack strikes.

Inflammatory cells within the plaque become active, and plaque that is not currently obstructing a coronary artery in any significant way can then swell and rupture. When that happens, the artery is suddenly occluded and presents with symptoms such as chest discomfort, shortness of breath or cardiac arrest. The inflammatory explanation helps us understand why without any previous symptoms, one suddenly develops a heart attack and when the coronary angiogram is performed many areas of narrowing coronary arteries are seen but just one has ruptured plaque.

It has not been known until recently that this inflammation can be reduced with medication and the risk for heart attack is consequently also reduced.

Statin drugs like Lipitor or Crestor

reduce LDL cholesterol located within the plaque itself. Studies have shown that reducing these levels to below 70 can result in reversal of the volume of fat within the plaque. Studies have shown that not only do these drugs reduce the risk for heart attacks, but they also have anti-inflammatory properties. Several studies now have shown that drugs that specifically inhibit inflammation even without affecting cholesterol levels can reduce the risk for a heart attack.

The most recent study involved a drug called colchicine. Colchicine, originally derived from the bulb of the crocus plant, has been used since ancient times to treat inflammation.

The drug affects inflammatory pathways that are important for the development of atherosclerosis.

Australian researchers studied more than 5000 patients who sustained a heart attack in the previous 30 days.

Half the patients received a low dose of colchicine and the other half a placebo. The researchers wanted to know if the drug would reduce the risk of cardiovascular death, heart attack or stroke. The patients were followed for an average of 30 months.

Researchers found colchicine to reduce the risk for a heart attack by around

30% with no serious side effects. This is the first study to demonstrate such a benefit and the use of this drug has not yet been approved by the FDA, but I suspect given this powerful study that more research will be done in the near future.

Since inflammation plays such an important role in causing heart attacks, you want to do everything you can to reduce inflammation. A simple marker of inflation is helping doctors identify individuals at high risk. The test is called high-sensitivity CRP or C-reactive protein. Inflammation and an elevated CRP are often seen in obesity, diabetes, and other inflammatory diseases.

Systemic inflammation can be reduced with regular exercise, a more plant-based diet, and medications used to treat cholesterol and blood pressure. Similarly, the new cholesterol-lowering drugs called PCSK9-inhibitors have been shown to lower CRP. The method of treating and reducing inflammation in heart disease is just beginning to be explored in a meaningful way. Perhaps understanding this process will lead to an even greater reduction in heart attacks and stroke.

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10 October 2020

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Affordable door and window replacement, bath and kitchen remodels. Free estimates.

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HELP WANTED Now hiring for all shifts.

Call Home Instead Senior Care if you are looking for meaningful work. Help us support our community seniors in staying vital and independent! Ask for Kathy or Bernadette at 884-0353 for more information and to set up an interview.

HOMES FOR SALE

You can’t go wrong with this sweet 2BR/2Bth single-wide home that comes with a oneyear home warranty. Located in the Albuquerque Meadows age 55+ Mobile Home Community, this home has an open, split floor plan with a bedroom at each end, making this home easy to entertain overnight guests. The kitchen has a great pantry, lots of cabinets, and all the appliances except the washer and dryer will stay.

This home has refrigerated air, newer, easy to clean thermal windows, a ramp and a large shed. Don’t miss this home that is priced to sell at $26,900. Call Pat or Craig at (505) 821-1991.

Coming Soon!!! Enjoy your morning coffee on the great front deck of this brand new 3BR/2Bth, Cavco home located in the Albuquerque Meadows age 55+ Mobile Home Community.

The cathedral ceilings give the bright and open floor plan a very spacious and homey ambiance.

The gorgeous kitchen with all Call Us for Cooler Start-Ups and stainless-steel appliances, and Conversion to Refrigerated Air a great island is enough to make you want to cook a fivecourse dinner. Accommodate your overnight company in the Heating and Air Conditioning nice guest bedroom and enjoy Plumbing using the bonus room as either a bedroom, den, office, or hobby room. Low-flow, high toilets are Lic. #034393 featured in both the master and www.ANCAE.com guest bathrooms and the large master bathroom has a walk-in shower. The master bedroom has a ceiling fan and a large Rate - $1 per word, $10 minimum walk-in closet. This home comes Box Border - Additional $10 with a manufacturer’s one-year Bold First Line - Additional $5 home warranty. Call Pat or Craig Photo - Additional $5 at (505) 821-1991.

Call 880-0470 (stock photo)

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volunteers 55 years of age and older for the following opportunities. For more information call 767-5225.

Relax on the front porch of this premium Cavco home located in the Albuquerque Meadows age 55+ Mobile Home Community. Cathedral ceilings accentuate the bright and open floor plan that has a large living and dining room.

The gourmet kitchen is any chef’s dream with plenty of cabinets and counter space and beautiful stainless steel appliances. This home has 2 bedrooms with an optional 3rd bedroom, den, or office. The nice-sized master bedroom has a walk-in closet and a ceiling fan and the master bathroom has double sinks, a walk-in shower and a large linen closet.

The pretty guest bathroom has a tub/shower combination.

Add tape and textured walls throughout, refrigerated air, a covered carport, and a shed for all your extras. Call Pat or Craig at (505) 821-1991. (stock photo)

WANTED TO BUY Old tools, Old Jewelry and hunting knives Please call 505-363-4813 VET WANTS TO BUY WWII Flight Jackets And WWII memorabilia Call (505) 254-1438

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VOLUNTEERS

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The City of Albuquerque Department of Senior Affairs RSVP (Retired Senior Volunteer Program) is recruiting

Senior Transportation Ride Coordinator Answer phones, confirm ride requests and match rider and driver. (Coordinate rides).

Enter information into the data base, complete rider intakes over the phone and mail packets. Volunteer must have good phone etiquette, patient, and be familiar with data entry. You must take an Abuse Awareness training class.

2-3 volunteers are needed 2.5 hours per day, 5 days per week. For more information call 767-5225.

CASA (City of Albuquerque Senior Affairs) Kitchen Looking for volunteers to support a state-of-the-art commercial kitchen that prepares food for seniors in the community. Hours are anytime between 4:00a.m. – 12p.m, Monday through Friday.

Participate in preparation and distribution of food.

Follow proper procedures in handling of food, portion control, sanitation, nutritional requirements and safety procedures. Some food handling experience is preferable; however volunteers will be trained for areas of help where are needed. Most volunteer activities will involve food prep (slicing, dicing, serving, and packaging) and kitchen sanitation (wiping, sweeping, mopping and dish washing). Call the RSVP office at 505-767-5225 for more information.

The Foster Grandparent Program (FGP) Advisory Council Needs members to join its efforts in promoting awareness and educating the community about FGP and senior issues.

Council members advocate on behalf of FGP volunteers, evaluate the Program’s effectiveness, and assist in the recognition of Foster Grandparents by raising funds and in-kind resources. The Council currently meets once a month at the Barelas Senior Center. For more information call 767-6412.

Foster Grandparent Program (FGP) is looking for volunteers age 55 and older who are interested in making a difference in a child’s life.

Foster Grandparent volunteers

PRIME TIME

October 2020

Classifieds must be willing to serve an average of 20 hours per week and must be able to pass a background check, physical, and tuberculosis test. Foster Grandparent volunteers serve one-on-one with children, working with them to build their social and emotional development as well as help improve their literacy skills.

Volunteers receive mileage reimbursement, supplemental liability insurance, meals while on duty, pre-service and monthly trainings, and recognition throughout the year.

Volunteers can also receive a small stipend if they meet the income guidelines. Call 764-6412 for more information and to apply today.

Department of Senior Affairs Home Services is looking for volunteers to assist with yard work, minor home repairs, painting, building of wheel chair ramps and modified steps.

Experience in minor home repairs and yard cleaning the use of yard tools, shovels, rakes and painting preferred but not required. Days/hours are open

Crossword

Mileage reimbursement is available to RSVP volunteers.

RSVP is part of Senior Corps and is administered by the Corporation for National and Community Service (CNCS).

The purpose of RSVP is to recruit senior volunteers into public, government and non-profit organizations to meet community needs. For information on these and more volunteer opportunities call 767-5225.

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DOWN 1. Wide cut 2. African lily 3. Tower site 4. Plots 5. 2009 movie for Sigourney Weaver 6. Poi source 7. Linear measure 8. Curvy letters 9. Shout of triumph 10. In __; pouting 11. McCain, for one: abbr.

12. Explosive letters 13. Sullivan and Bradley 21. High school student 22. Felonious offense 25. Shakespearean hero 26. Golf shoe features 27. Outflow 28. Comes up 29. Plunderer 30. Celebration 31. Periods of time 33. Future dieters 34. Actress Sharon 36. Irritate 39. Underground drain 43. “__ Wonderful Life” 45. Deputies 47. City in Arizona 50. Malicious writing 52. Article of clothing 53. Word with head or knowledge 54. Othello’s downfall 55. TV’s “American __” 56. Womanizer’s glance 57. Indispensable item 58. Not well-lit 59. “__ to Billy Joe” 60. Last of twenty-six

ACROSS 1. Spaces 5. In __; even 9. Hurriedness 14. Landed 15. Moving vehicles 16. Overturn 17. Unexceptional 18. Curves 19. Lets 20. Intimate and candid 23. Verily 24. Fem. title 25. Early third-century year 28. Hypersensitivity to some substance 32. Shallow spots 34. Hernia site 35. Of planes: pref.

37. Victory signs 38. Jungle beast 39. Done in 40. Famous twin 41. This: Sp. 42. Viscount’s superior 43. Incensed 44. Teeter-totter 46. Dogs and hens?

48. Georgia, once: abbr.

49. Become firm 51. Letters on a postage stamp 52. Confirmation of the truth 58. Rose buyer’s request 61. Deadly creatures 62. Rim 63. That is 64. Consequently 65. Part 66. Is introduced to 67. Juan Ponce de __ 68. Winter toy

Ombudsman Program Ombudsmen are advocates and problem solvers for residents in nursing homes and assisted living facilities. Please apply if you are looking for a rewarding experience that makes a difference in the lives of the elderly.

Time commitment: 3 hours per week, any day MondayFriday. For more information call 767-5225.

Difficulty hearing over the phone?

#5145

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

depending on volunteer.

Time commitment: M-F 7:30-3:00. On the job training will be provided.

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PRIME TIME

12 October 2020

Ask The Bugman Email questions to AskTheBugman.com or call (505)385-2820

L

ong-term weather forecasts predict we’re in for a warm fall and possibly a warm winter. Without cold temperatures keeping pests at bay, they are likely to be more active than usual.

However, it is inadvisable to have your house sprayed with pesticides, ANSWER TO #5145

which can, if repeated over time, compromise your immune system.

So, the best option is to prevent pests from entering your home in the first place.

The first step to pest-proofing your home is to install door sweeps on all outside doors that need them. If you can slide a piece of paper under a door, it needs a door sweep. Also, add a door sweep to a door connecting the interior of the home to the garage. Pick up any debris or stacks of “stuff” you may have sitting around the house. Those areas make good hiding places for cockroaches, scorpions and centipedes. If you have firewood, stack it outside, away from the house as it will attract black widows. It is also a good idea to cover firewood with black plastic and stack it in the sun.

The heat under the plastic will keep spiders and insects from hanging out in the firewood.

Be sure to trim tree branches to keep them from touching the roof, as acrobat ants and carpenter ants will otherwise use them as highways to gain access. Also, you should sweep down any spider webs around the outside of the house.

As for the garage, you will probably find that the door doesn’t

close tightly and never will. There are almost always small areas at either side of the door where insects or rodents can get in. As mentioned earlier, make sure there are door sweeps on the door entering the house. Put Niban Bait in any areas behind storage or shelves where roaches can hide. Niban will last three or four months, so you only need to apply it a couple of times a year. Niban is made from boric acid and is available online.

Remember to keep all of your sink, tub and floor drains closed at night. This will prevent cockroaches from coming up the drains from the sewer system or septic tank. If you don’t have a

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drain cover, you can fill a Ziploc bag with water and place it over the drain. That will keep the roaches out.

Keep anything that pests can hide in or under away from your house.

Don’t leave outside lights on any longer than necessary, as they attract insects. Check your home every few months to make sure all of the work you did is still in place and effective.

You don’t need pesticides to control most pests. If you have any pest questions, you can contact me at askthebugman2013@gmail. com. I have handbooks I will share with you that will give you more information on dealing with pests safely and effectively.

PRIME TIME

October 2020

Coronavirus Versus Flu: How To Tell The Difference

Dear Savvy Senior, Can you explain the differences between the coronavirus and seasonal flu? I’m 70-years-old, and usually get a standard flu shot, but would like to find out what else I can do to protect myself this winter.

Worried Senior Dear Worried, Great question! Because of the dual danger of Influenza (flu) and COVID-19, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently warned that this fall and winter could be the worst ever for public health.

Understanding this, knowing the differences and similarities between the viruses, and knowing what you can do to protect yourself is the best way to stay healthy and safe through this difficult time.

Flu vs COVID Because many of the symptoms of flu and COVID-19 are similar, it may be hard to tell the difference between them based on symptoms alone, so testing may be needed to help confirm a diagnosis. With that said, here are some similarities and differences you should know.

For starters, seasonal flu symptoms come on pretty quickly, whereas COVID-19 develops gradually over a period of a few days and then either fades out or gets worse. Common shared symptoms include fever, sore throat, muscle aches, cough, headache, fatigue and even chest pain. Pinkeye and a dry cough are associated with COVID-19, while it’s now thought that a fever is more likely with the flu, as are diarrhea and nausea.

Many people are having their temperatures taken these days before entering public spaces. But fever occurs in only half of COVID-19 cases. Fever does not rule out COVID-19, but the absence of fever makes flu unlikely.

You’re also unlikely to have a runny or stuffy nose with the flu, but you

may with COVID-19. What sometimes happens within the nose with COVID-19 is loss of smell and, often as a consequence, loss of taste, too.

To learn more about the similarities and differences between flu and COVID-19, visit the CDC website at CDC.gov/flu/symptoms/flu-vs-covid19. htm.

How to Protect Yourself While there is currently no vaccine available yet to prevent COVID-19, the best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to this virus. So, stay home as much as you can. If you have to go out, wear a mask and keep at least 6 feet away from other people.

And every time you come home, wash your hands with warm water and soap for at least 20 seconds.

There’s also evidence that suggests that people who are deficient in vitamin D may be at higher risk of getting COVID-19, than those with sufficient levels. So, make sure you take in around 800 to 1,000 international units (IUs) of vitamin D from food or supplements daily, and get outside as much as you can.

And to help guard against the flu this year, you should consider getting a flu shot that’s specifically designed for people 65 and older. The “Fluzone High Dose Quadrivalent” or the “FLUAD Quadrivalent” are the two options that provide extra protection beyond what a standard flu shot offers.

You only need one flu shot, and if you haven’t already gotten it, you should do it now because takes up to two weeks to build immunity after you receive it.

Pneumonia Vaccines If you haven’t been vaccinated for pneumonia, you should also consider getting the pneumococcal vaccines.

Both flu and COVID-19 can lead to pneumonia, which hospitalizes around 250,000 Americans, and kills around 50,000 people each year. But these numbers could be much higher this year.

The CDC recommends that all seniors, 65 or older, get two vaccinations – Prevnar 13 and Pneumovax 23. Both vaccines, which are administered one year apart, protect against different strains of the bacteria to provide maximum protection.

Medicare Part B covers both flu and pneumonia shots.

To locate a vaccination site that

13

offers any of these shots, visit VaccineFinder.org and type in your location.

Send your senior questions to: Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070, or visit SavvySenior.org. Jim Miller is a contributor to the NBC Today show and author of “The Savvy Senior” book.

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Dr. Gerard Muraida

The Doc Is In Gerard Muraida MD is a Geriatrician and the Medical Director at InnovAge in Albuquerque.

O

ctober in New Mexico includes the smell of roasting chile, falling leaves, chilly mornings - and flu season. Of course, this year, that annual virus may be complicated by the Covid-19.

PRIME TIME

Flu Season Is Here The Centers for Disease Control recommends everyone over the age of 6 months to get the flu shot.

So, if you are reading this, you need a flu shot. Those at greatest risk are children younger than 5 years old, adults over 65 and pregnant women. Since children younger than 6 months can’t receive the vaccine, it is very important for those who care for them to be vaccinated. This also includes the children who live with or are around these children.

Multi-generational family homes are especially at high risk.

Certain medical conditions also increase a person’s risk for having complications from the flu.

Illnesses like asthma, chronic lung disease (COPD, emphysema, cystic fibrosis), heart disease, kidney problems, liver problems,

auto-immune illnesses, cancers, obesity and diabetes are included on the list. If you have one of these conditions, it is even more important to get your flu shot immediately.

If you are concerned about catching the flu from the shot, don’t be; it’s not possible. The vaccine contains an inactive, or killed, virus—it can’t cause disease. Sometimes a person can get mild flu symptoms, but those are not indicative of the flu.

Getting the flu can be much worse, even deadly.

Also, if you have egg allergies, a cell–based flu vaccine is now available that is safe for you. In a study this summer of Medicare beneficiaries ages 65 and older, this cell-based vaccine provided greater protection against flu-

related hospitalizations than the standard-dose, egg-based vaccine.

If safety venturing out into the community is an obstacle, or if you don’t have a primary care provider, a number of clinics are offering drive-by flu shots.

Getting the flu shot helps you, your family and the community.

As always, please consult your health care provider to decide which type of flu vaccine is right for you. Wear face coverings, maintain physical distance and wash your hands frequently. Be safe and be well.

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PRIME TIME

October 2020

Electrolyte Imbalances In Health And Illness

Shellie Rosen, DOM

Herb Doc

Family Services

5783-943-505

T C AT N O C

ATENCIÓN

ATENCIÓN Family Services

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Sports Drinks and Over the Counter Hydration Drinks for Illness are BAD News Sports drinks contain unhealthy and disproportionate additives (such as excessive sodium), to deliver an insufficient serving of ‘electrolytes.’ If you aren’t relying on hydration for carbohydrates, you don’t need sugar of any kind in your electrolyte drink. Sugar is often used in sports drinks to increase carbohydrates needed for activity; however, the sweetener used depends on the brand. Drinks often contain over 30 grams per 20 ounces of sugar, dextrose, or high fructose corn syrup (harmfully raising blood sugar).

Sugar is related to the problem of

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S R U O E K I L YL I M AF R U O Y TA E R T E W

Causes and Signs of Dehydration Awareness of conditions and medications that lead to electrolyte loss can curb symptoms that seem inevitable. Some forms of chemotherapy are associated with electrolyte imbalances. During and after chemotherapy, magnesium, potassium, calcium, sodium and phosphate levels become dangerously depleted in body fluids. Kidney illnesses, Type 1 diabetes, diarrhea, vomiting or a lack of thirst are common causes of dehydration. Medications such as proton pump inhibitors (for acid reflux) deplete magnesium.

Diuretics lead to fluid loss, which often throw off electrolyte balance.

If you take medication, ask your pharmacist about the role the drug

0771-712-505

E

lectrolytes hold an electrical charge in body fluid, which promotes functions such as nerve and muscular communication, much like water in a car battery. Electrolytes also help rebuild the body to maintain blood plasma and pH balance. A wellbalanced diet will deliver enough electrolytes for daily health. When illness, medication, or excessive sweat/loss of fluids disrupts pH balance, a person may consider supplementing electrolytes.

Healthy electrolyte management may help prevent dehydration.

Sports drinks are a terrible way to remedy this condition.

H ETS WN DR onatnoM 0036 02178 MN ,euqreuqublA

Shellie Rosen is a Doctor of Oriental Medicine. She can be reached via her website at Bodyvolve.com

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plays in electrolyte balance.

Magnesium deficiency shows up in the muscles as cramping. An unrelenting calf spasm or cramp can be a sign of low magnesium.

A pinch test involves pinching the skin on your hand; if it stays put and doesn’t spring back quickly (within 1-2 seconds) you may be dehydrated. An electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG) (available as at-home devices/watches) can monitor heart rate changes, indicating body fluid imbalances. Dark urine is also a sign of concentrated fluids and dehydration. Symptoms of electrolyte imbalance include nausea, lethargy and fluid retention.

Seek immediate medical attention if you or someone you know experiences dehydration that leads to confusion, chest pain, heartrate change (irregular or rapid) or seizure. If you think you might be dehydrated, consider drinking fluids with electrolytes, but use caution. Not all electrolyte drinks are beneficial.

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electrolyte imbalances since it can play a role in mineral depletion.

Sugar also encourages poor gut health by feeding bad bacteria and weakens the immune system.

Sugar-free drinks are marketed confusingly. They often contain gut disrupters such as sucralose or acesulfame potassium (chemicals in fake sugars) and are located in the pharmacy section. These side effects may promote cancer growth in some cases. Unfortunately, the nasty ingredients continue with artificial flavors and additives such as calcium propionate, citric acid, phosphoric acid and benzoic acid.

Artificial food dyes like Red 40, Yellow 5, Yellow 6 and Blue 1 (depending on the color of fluid), add to a toxic cocktail sold as a recovery drink. (See Prime Time online February 2020 article titled “Red Alert” to learn more about food dyes.)

Consider Making Your Own Healthy Electrolyte Drink!

Coconut water may be a good alternative. It contains potassium,

15

calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, and sodium. The “Journal of Physiological Anthropology and Applied Human Science” noted in 2002 that coconut water is better for hydration than water alone or a sports drink. Learning how to put together a healthful fluid stabilizing mix is a great talent and a valuable gift. Outdoor enthusiasts, playing children and friends going through chemotherapy will enjoy your medicinal beverages. Keep the juices flowing.

Abundant hydration! Dr. Shellie L. Rosen, DOM, L.Ac. Homemade Electrolyte Recovery Fluid • (1 quart =32 fluid ounces) (16 ounce- ½ the recipe) • 2 cups juice/tea (experiment; try low- or no-sugar options) • 2 cups coconut water (unsweetened is best) • ¼ tsp. Himalayan salt • 1 tsp. calcium magnesium powder (sold together and individually – both are good) • Stevia to taste

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PRIME TIME

16 October 2020

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