Prime Time July 2023

their ability to do

harold callan spends retirement teaching woodworking

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“A lot of people underestimate

something.”

Brilliant ways to fight allergens this season

StatePoint

During allergy season, having a safe haven from the triggers that make you sneeze and wheeze is essential. While you can’t completely control your surroundings in the great outdoors, you can take steps at home to reduce allergens and feel your best.

• Fresh, cool air: The right air conditioning unit can help you breathe better indoors. For example, the Midea U delivers a cold airflow that can be felt up to 20 feet away and features full DC inverter technology to rapidly cool a room. Its removable and washable air filter is easily cleaned to help reduce dust and pet allergens in the air. And thanks to its U-shaped design, you can easily open and close your windows even when the unit is installed,

giving you more control of your indoor air quality and environment. Bonus — it’s compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant and is Energy Star-certified and ultra-quiet.

• Smart steps: When you get home from spending time outdoors, take off outer layers that have made contact with pollen, such as jackets and shoes. Having a mud room or other area to remove and store these items, preferably attached to or close to your laundry room, will help you avoid tracking and spreading allergens throughout your home.

• Screened doors and windows: Even if you suffer from allergies, you may enjoy throwing open your windows on a nice day for a cross breeze. Just be sure all the screens on your windows

and doors are in good condition and free of tears and holes. Special pollenblocking screens are easy to install and go a step further than standard insect screens to keep out smaller, particulate matter, including pollen, dust and other small irritants and allergens.

• Whole-home cleaning: Regular vacuuming will make a world of difference in the way you feel. For maximum relief, use a vacuum with complete seal HEPA filtration. This means it’s EPA-certified to do the job, based on the standard test method, which indicates it can trap 99.9% of dust, dander and allergen particles 0.3 microns and larger. The Innova Upright Vacuum, for example, targets these particles and facilitates

whole-home cleaning. Thanks to its detachable accessories and components, and LED user interface, you can optimize your cleaning for every surface, including hard floor, carpet and upholstery, curtains, the space under furniture and stairs. And if you’re a pet parent, you can expect a deeper, more efficient clean and longer operation due to its dual-action brush roll that actively prevents pet hair tangles and clogs from forming while concentrating air flow. It also has a motorized anti-tangle pet tool that effectively removes hair and debris from stairs and upholstery.

There is no need to suffer in your own home this season. With some smart strategies and the right tools, you can keep allergens at bay indoors.

TELL YOUR STORIES IF YOU KNOW WHAT’S GOOD FOR YOU

Whenever I visit a place

I’ve never been before I think of my Grandpa Les. He was in the military and when my Mom was about five years old he started driving a semi truck. He drove trucks for about 30 years across the country and earned a pin for driving a million miles.

When my husband and I moved our family from Wyoming to the east side of Indiana in 1990, Grandpa Les knew exactly where we’d moved to and had been there before. He told me right where it was on the map and all about the businesses on a specific intersection.

My sister moved to a very small town in Montana and Grandpa asked her if they still had the truck stop at the edge of town. It always amazed me how specific his memories were of the smallest, most hidden places each of us found ourselves in over the years. He had likely been there before and remembered it all.

We loved hearing my Grandpa’s stories of his time in the military (although he didn’t talk about that much) and his time on the road. Storytelling can spark a range of emotions: sadness, joy, pride and many others. Storytelling has been a part of culture forever. It was once the only way to pass down tradition and history. There’s

sUZanne derenGowsKi Guest columnist

something different about hearing a story directly from someone who lived it.

This week my two sisters, my brother and as many of our kids as could make it met my mom in Savannah, Georgia. We’re celebrating her 80th birthday.

We are creating new memories and new stories. Day one was Tybee Island. Mom got to put her feet in the Atlantic, collect some seashells and eat a big pile of seafood. Today was a tour of Savannah and home cooking at Paula Deen’s restaurant. Mom’s a fan. Paula’s son, Jamie was there and took a photo with Mom. Another story to tell when she goes back home (or today on Facebook).

And we are listening to stories about her history and our history. We are listening to her remember important stories. Some of them we’ve heard before. Some of them she has told all of us individually. Sometimes more than once or twice. We begin to add pieces that perhaps she hasn’t heard before or doesn’t remember. Each of us, it

seems, remembers different bits. We all have different perspectives. Sometimes the stories make us feel sad because we’re remembering someone who isn’t here anymore. Sometimes the stories are about an important event to everyone and sometimes the story only matters to one person. Sometimes one person jogs a different memory in someone else. Sometimes we argue about the details. Sometimes one of us claims credit for something the other one did. Sometimes it gets heated. Almost always the stories end in laughter.

My family is scattered across the country from Montana to Alabama and Wisconsin to Texas. Being able to share the stories in person is rare and it’s such a blessing when we can. It is important to tell the stories. It is important to hear the stories. The stories are especially important as we age.

Studies show that telling your stories actually has a physiological impact by improving self-esteem, mood and increasing your feeling of control as you age. Storytelling is also becoming a more widely used therapeutic tool in dementia therapy.

As we get older it’s natural to worry about memory loss, and it’s common to feel a little isolated. My mom is surrounded by friends in Texas. She’s a busy lady who’s

hardly ever home when I call, but I know she sometimes feels isolated.

Storytelling can help combat isolation, reduce anxiety and strengthen your memory. I encourage you to tell your stories. Your children and grandchildren need to hear them and you need to tell them. They will be grateful to know what led you to make the decisions you made throughout your life.

There are some great ways to jumpstart your storytelling.If a blank notebook seems daunting, there are books and websites that give you prompting questions to get you started.

Look at some of your favorite photographs and let them bring up the stories that go with them.

Have your family members ask you questions.

If you’re not a pen and paper person and you don’t have someone handy to dictate too, you can record them yourself. Your smart phone probably has an app for that. If you can’t find it, ask your grandchildren.

Even an old fashioned tape recorder would do the trick.

So tell your stories. If you think you already did, tell them again. It’s OK. It’s good for your health.

Suzanne Derengowski is director of Hancock County Senior Services.

Prioritizing your health now that the public health emergency is over

StatePoint

With the national COVID-19 Public Health Emergency officially over, medical experts say it’s time to address the health challenges that may have been neglected during — or created by — the pandemic.

“Making time for you and your family’s preventive medical care and investing in your mental health is essential right now,” says Jack Resneck Jr, MD, president of the American Medical Association (AMA). “As you settle into old routines or find new ones, you may be feeling overwhelmed, anxious, afraid or depressed. Give yourself permission to express these emotions, while taking steps to get needed care.”

For better health and wellness, the AMA offers these tips:

1. Stay connected

According to the U.S. Surgeon General, the health consequences of isolation include a 29% increased risk of heart disease, a 32% increased risk of stroke, and a 50% increased risk of developing dementia for older adults. Spending time with loved ones, friends or community groups can quickly have a positive impact on mental and physical health.

2. Practice self-care

Getting regular exercise, practicing gratitude and getting enough sleep are all forms of self-care that can improve mental health. Check out the National Institute of Mental Health’s resources, which include ideas for better understanding what causes your symptoms and what coping techniques might help you manage your mental health.

3. Know the signs

Feelings of hopelessness or irritability, loss of interest in hobbies and activities, and decreased energy or appetite can all be signs of depression. If you are experiencing signs of a mental health condition, speak to your primary care physician or a psychiatrist.

Be aware of the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, a national hotline available 24/7. Anyone experiencing a suicidal, substance use or mental health crisis can call or text 988 to speak to trained crisis counselors.

4. Get screened

It’s estimated that since April 2020, 3.9 million breast cancer, 3.8 million colorectal cancer and 1.6 million prostate cancer diagnoses may have been missed due to pandemic-related care disruptions. If you’re due for preventive care, tests or screenings, make an appointment.

5. Don’t wait

An estimated 41% of adults with one or more chronic health conditions reported delaying or forgoing health care since the pandemic started. Additionally, one in three of those adults

reported that doing so worsened one or more of their health conditions or limited their ability to work or perform other daily activities. Whether you have a chronic health condition or not, don’t wait until something is wrong before seeing a doctor. If something does feel off, schedule an appointment as soon as possible.

6. Get vaccinated

Adolescents and adult immunizations sharply declined during the pandemic and an estimated 26 million recommended vaccinations were missed in 2020 as compared to 2019. Make sure your family is up-to-date on vaccines, including the annual influenza vaccine and the bivalent COVID-19 vaccine for everyone 6 months and older. Your doctor can let you know if you’re due for a COVID booster. If you have questions, consult your physician and

trusted resources, including getvaccineanswers.org.

7. Know your numbers

Track health data such as height, weight, body mass index and blood pressure in order to share trends with your doctor and take action if needed. Visit ManageYourBP.org to understand what your blood pressure numbers mean and how to get your blood pressure under control. High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, affects millions of Americans and can increase heart attack and stroke risk.

For more tips and information, visit http://www.ama-assn.org.

“It’s vitally important to prioritize mental and physical health. Contact your health care professional to schedule the care you need to keep you and your family healthy,” says Dr. Resneck.

The s TaT us of nursing home care in i ndiana

Appropriate staffing levels and low staff turnover rates are indicative of diligent care in Long Term Care and Assisted Living facilities. Data available for public viewing between 2019 and 2022 reveals Indiana fell to the bottom 20th percentile rankings in the US. For example, direct care staffing hours per resident received a grade of F. Facilities with deficiencies scored an F and facilities with severe deficiencies scored a D. This is unacceptable.

During the COVID pandemic, oversight agencies did not enter facilities. Numerous resident deaths occurred, and staff endured burnout. More recently, staffing shortages have ballooned and care has declined. Those who reside in facilities, along with loved ones and friends, are all too familiar with this tragedy.

When an individual enters a facility, they do not surrender any

Kit Paternoster Guest columnist

of their rights. A person’s rights should be fully honored. Among these rights are to be always treated with dignity and respect, to receive the best care possible, to choose one’s own attending physician, to be free from physical or chemical restraints, to be free from abuse and neglect, to receive reasonable accommodation of needs and preferences, and the right of self-determination.

The Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program exists to help ensure these rights and many others are observed and preserved. An Ombudsman is an advocate for residents in licensed facilities. Ombudsmen promote and

protect resident’s rights guaranteed under state and federal law. Ombudsmen are resident-directed and serve as another version of a health oversight function. Ombudsmen are trained and certified by their respective state offices. Services are free and confidential.

The Ombudsman receives complaints and assists residents to resolve problems in situations involving quality of care, abuse, transfer and discharge rights and numerous other concerns. With permission from a resident, the Ombudsman can advocate and negotiate on behalf of a resident. Self-advocacy is also a valuable tool for residents to utilize.

Additional resident’s rights include: the right to participate in one’s own treatment and care planning, the right to refuse treatment or medications, the right to privacy, the right to have visitors, the right to control finances and the right to

express grievances without fear of retaliation.

Who can contact the Ombudsman program? Anyone. This includes residents, family members, friends, administrators and employees of facilities and anyone concerned about the care and welfare of residents in licensed facilities. Reasons to call the Ombudsman program might be: call lights not being answered, problems with medication, lack of hygiene care, poor staff attitudes, emotional or verbal abuse, improper discharge attempts or room changes and many others.

The Ombudsman office can be contacted at LongTermCareOmbudsman@ombudsman.IN.gov or by calling 800-622-4484.

Thank you for reading.

Kit Paternoster is a trained SHIP counselor for Medicare issues and an advocate for issues affecting seniors. You can reach her via email at kitpaternoster57@gmail.com.

Woodshop At the

new Palestine retiree teaches the art of woodworking in his backyard woodshop

BY SHeLLeY SWiFt | DAILY REPORTER sswift@greenfieldreporter.com

NEW PALESTINE —

When Harold Callan seeks a random chunk of wood, he sees infinite possibilities.

The experienced woodsmith has built a number of things over the years, and is now sharing his expertise with others.

The New Palestine man teaches students the art of woodworking in a 14-by-20foot woodshop he built in his backyard.

“I really enjoy communicating with the kids and helping them think through their projects. They really seem to catch on,” he said.

Callan was nudged into teaching three years ago by Jamie Potter, whose three teenage kids were taking piano lessons from Callan’s wife Jackie in their home.

“She asked me one day if I could teach woodworking to her kids, and I said ‘Why not,’” he recalled.

Maddy, Drew and Jack Potter have since built intricate wood flowers and keepsake boxes that would make any high school woodshop teacher proud.

“He’s done such a great job with us. He’s such a great mentor and genuinely cares about his students,” said Maddy, 18, who recently graduated from New Palestine High School.

Callan, 71, is happy to be spending his post-retirement years doing something he loves.

He spent the majority of his career as a carpenter after an initial stint serving as a church pastor in his hometown of Kansas City, Mo.

Callan realized the clergy wasn’t the best fit for him, so he turned to carpentry in 1989. Soon he was building cabinetry, finishing basements and remodeling kitchens, and spent some time doing trim work on yachts in New Orleans.

Pictured: Harold Callan is a retired carpenter. He now teaches kids the art of woodworking from his home in New Palestine. Tom Russo | Daily RepoRTeR

(see woodshoP PaGe 10)

wooDShoP

continued from PaGe 8

Retired since 2016, he now spends his time teaching others the tricks of the trade. He currently has about nine students, but is open to taking on more of all ages and skill levels.

The floor of his sunny yellow workshop is covered in a thin layer of sawdust, remnants of an assortment of projects his students have done in recent days.

Most of his students start out using a scroll saw to carve an intricate flower out of wood, then work their way up to other tools.

“I teach safety first and foremost,” said Callan, who charges $15 an hour to teach his trade.

He once mentored a teen who created a convertible stand-up desk that won a statewide student craftsmanship contest.

“I could advise and teach him and make sure he was working safely but not perform the work,” Callan recalled.

He’s also open to talking his friends through how to do woodworking projects, like building a basic entertainment center or removing and installing wood floors.

“People say, ‘Can you build this for me?’ and I say ‘How about you come over and I’ll help you build it,” he said.

Callan’s love for woodworking got a serious boost on a road trip through Berea, Ky., where he happened upon a roadside building where the state allows local artisans to display their crafts.

Callan was amazed at the quality of wood craftsmanship he saw.

“When we got back on the road I told my wife I’d love to bring my skills to that level,” he said.

She started searching for ways for

From top: Harold Callan is a retired carpenter. He now teaches kids the art of woodworking from his home in New Palestine. // A detailed carving of a flower. Tom Russo | Daily RepoRTeR (see woodshoP PaGe 12)

wooDShoP

continued from PaGe 8

her husband to pursue his passion, and came upon the Marc Adams School of Woodworking 20 miles away in Franklin.

Callan started taking lessons there in 2005 and soon rose to the rank of

assistant. He also earned a master’s of woodworking certificate through the prestigious school.

He also puts his skills to work around his house, where he’s completely remodeled the kitchen and bathroom and all the trim, by adding hickory woodwork to reflect an arts and crafts style.

He’s also made some

intricately-detailed lamps and tables and is now working on a bookshelf for his wife.

He encourages those who have never done woodworking to give it a try.

“A lot of people underestimate their ability to do something,” said the teacher. “A lot of them can do way more than they think.”

Such was the case for Maddy, who

is no longer taking piano lessons but still takes woodworking lessons from Callan when she can.

Her experience with woodworking has taught her the value of trying something new.

“I never thought I’d be able to make a (memory) box or a rose out of wood, but it’s been such a great experience,” she said.

A cabinet, along with other projects Callan has made, is displayed in his kitchen.

SENIOR SERVICES

MISSION

Hancock County Senior Services is a not-for-profit service organization advocating for and addressing the life challenges of our Hancock County senior population and individuals with disabilities and providing public transportation for all of Hancock County.

VISION

All Hancock County seniors have the available resources to achieve their highest quality of life.

FEES

Must be a Hancock County resident at least 60 years old. Services also provided to people under 60 with disabilities. Donations are encouraged. Sliding scale fee for respite and homemaker programs. Public transportation is available to everyone in Hancock County by appointment. Fees are $4 per stop. Senior trips to essential destination are donation only.

FUNDING

Federal and state funds through Central Indiana Council on Aging; local governments; Hancock County; client donations and fees; foundations; private donations; fundraising; and United Way of Central Indiana.

VOLUNTEER

Senior Services offers a variety of positions through handyman, volunteer services, telephone reassurance, fundraising events and board service.

SERVICES

The agency provides an umbrella of services that help seniors age in place with dignity and independence.

Legal assistance: An Indiana Senior Law Project representative visits the office regularly to assist seniors with legal questions and documents. Donations accepted.

Outreach and insurance: Senior Services provides help in connecting people in need to resources; enrolling in nutritional programs; and filling out IN SC-40 low-income tax credit forms. Senior Services provides insurance counseling. Medicare counseling provided through the State Health Insurance Assistance

Program, in which counselors offer information about Medicare, Medicare savings plans and other insurance options. The outreach program also loans durable medical equipment such as walkers and canes and provides incontinence supplies. Donations accepted.

PROGRAMS

Homemaker: Provides light housekeeping assistance with laundry, basic cleaning, cooking and grocery shopping. Fees based on the client’s income.

Respite/Assisted Care: Non-medical respite to relieve an unpaid caregiver by providing in-home supervision to frail seniors or people with disabilities. Fees based on the client’s income.

Handyman: Simple home repairs and technology assistance on a case-bycase basis. Examples include installing safety grab bars and smoke detectors, replacing batteries and light bulbs, and setting up a new TV. Donations accepted.

Telephone reassurance: Telephone calls are made by staff and volunteers to provide reassurance and safety checks.

Transportation: Through the HCSS public transportation program (RIDE Hancock) appointments can be made for transportation to Hancock County destinations. Senior rides to essential destinations are donation only. Public rides are $4 per stop.

Volunteer services: Volunteers visit in seniors’ homes to provide companionship and general assistance. Volunteers are matched one-on-one with a client. Volunteer groups also undertake special projects under the guidance of the volunteer coordinator.

Intergenerational programs: Periodically, area high school students get together with Senior volunteers for fellowship, shared activities, and information exchange. This highly successful program helps to build bridges between generations.

Equipment loans: Senior Services loan wheelchairs, walkers and other assistive devices at no charge.

Office Hours: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays

Location: 1870 Fields Blvd, Greenfield

For in-home services: 317-462-3758

For transportation: 317-462-1103

TTY Relay System: 1-800-743-3333

GREENFIELD SENIOR CENTER CALENDAR

The Greenfield Senior Citizens Center, located in the Pat Elmore Center in Riley Park, has a variety of activities for active seniors every weekday. Membership is free and provides access to multiple social, recreational and educational programs.

Adults of all ages are invited to attend any of the center’s programs. More information is available by calling 317-477-4343.

Here is a schedule of regular activities for the Senior Center, 280 N. Apple St. This schedule is subject to change.

How urologists detect bladder cancer with blue light cystoscopy

StatePoint

Like many bladder cancer survivors, Karen S. often reflects on her personal experience with the disease, and the support she received throughout her healthcare journey.

Karen was diagnosed with bladder cancer in 2010 at age 54, after experiencing symptoms for two years. As an oncology nurse for more than 40 years, she was well aware of the many forms of cancer. Nevertheless, she assumed her frequent urinary tract infections and discomfort were gynecological in nature and never expected her doctors to discover a tumor or to be diagnosed with bladder cancer.

After receiving a variety of medical treatments, Karen still had persistent disease. She transferred to a National Cancer Institute-designated cancer center where her bladder cancer specialist informed

her about a technology called Blue Light Cystoscopy (BLC) that would allow her doctor to see tumors that white light alone may miss.

“BLC was a quick and easy procedure that gave my doctor the ability to identify tumors early on, allowing for earlier and less aggressive treatment,” says Karen.

Each year, about 81,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with bladder cancer, according to the National Cancer Institute. Symptoms in both men and women can mimic common urinary tract infections, like they did for Karen. For men, however, the more common symptom is blood in the urine. Whatever the symptoms, it is important to see a doctor.

According to Karen, people with bladder cancer, or those who suspect they may have bladder cancer, should ask their doctor questions

and seek a second opinion. Once diagnosed, they should explore support groups and do research on bladder cancer, including learning about the latest treatments and technologies available.

“It’s especially important for me to inform others about the benefits of BLC, since many people may not be aware of this option. BLC may help others diagnosed with bladder cancer the way it helped me,” says Karen.

A cystoscopy is a medical procedure where a urology healthcare professional uses a thin, tube-like telescope called a cystoscope to look directly into the bladder for a close examination of the lining. This procedure is used to help find the cause of symptoms and to treat and monitor the condition. Historically, the only type of cystoscopy available used white light. BLC, however,

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uses both white and blue light to offer significantly improved detection of suspicious areas compared to white light alone and has been proven to increase the detection of non-muscle invasive bladder cancer.

Today, Karen is cancer free and continues to support those affected by bladder cancer, including patients, caregivers and their loved ones, by hosting support groups and working with the Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network. These resources can be found by visiting https:// bcan.org/.

People experiencing symptoms of bladder cancer and those who have been recently diagnosed should ask their urologist about BLC, because it’s not available everywhere. To search for a location where BLC is offered near you, visit https://rebrand.ly/BLC-Locator.

This article is sponsored by Photocure Inc.

Whether you choose burial or cremation, we know that a funeral is a chance to show your loved one’s unique walk of life.

Whatever your wishes, trust us to understand their importance.

Whether you choose burial or cremation, we know that a funeral is a chance to show your loved one’s unique walk of life.

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It’s Important to Us.

Kristin St. Pierre, Paul St. Pierre, Sally Molden, and Angela J. L. Bodkins

New resources for those living with COPD

StatePoint

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), a long-term lung disease that includes bronchitis and emphysema, is a leading cause of disability and death in the United States. More than 12.5 million people have been diagnosed, but millions more may have the disease without even knowing it.

Given the tremendous impact COPD has on individuals, it’s no surprise that it is a significant healthcare burden in the United States. In 2019

alone, there were close to 1,320,000 emergency department visits due to COPD and close to 536,000 hospitalizations. The total economic cost of COPD in this country is close to $50 billion each year.

COPD can impact all aspects of one’s life, making basic household and personal care tasks difficult. However, there are numerous actions a person with COPD can take to feel better and reduce the disease’s impact.

Those who are newly diagnosed with COPD often have many questions

about what they can do to feel better. With this in mind, the American Lung Association has launched COPD Basics, a one-hour online course that is free and open to all. Designed to improve COPD care, the course is meant for people living with COPD, their families and healthcare professionals, such as nurses, physicians and respiratory therapists.

The COPD Basics course will teach participants about COPD risk factors and prevention; recognizing the symptoms and diagnosing COPD;

maintaining a high quality of life while living with a chronic disease, and the latest treatments and medications. Healthcare professionals who complete the course may be eligible to receive continuing education credits or contact hours. If you or a family member has recently been diagnosed with COPD, take the COPD Basics course at Lung.org/COPD-Basics.

There is currently no cure for COPD, but new resources can help those living with the disease manage their condition.

FOOT AND ANKLE SAFETY TIPS

StatePoint

From the beach to the backyard, taking care of your feet and ankles in summer is essential.

“Nothing ruins summer fun faster than a problem with your feet. However, a few smart precautions can help keep you healthy and safe,” says Gretchen Lawrence, DPM, AACFAS, a board-certified foot and ankle surgeon and an associate member of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons (ACFAS).

To help you understand some of the most common summer risks to feet and how to avoid them, ACFAS is sharing these insights:

• Puncture wounds: Millions of Americans go barefoot every summer, and thousands will sustain cuts and puncture wounds. To prevent injury and infection, wear shoes whenever possible and get vaccinated against tetanus. If you do get a puncture wound, see a foot and ankle surgeon within 24 hours and don’t swim until it’s healed. Bacteria in oceans and lakes can cause infection.

• Pool problems: Always wear flip flops or other footwear in locker rooms and on pool decks to prevent contact with bacteria and viruses that can cause athlete’s foot, plantar warts and other problems.

• Sun damage and skin cancer: Don’t overlook your feet during your sun protection routine. Feet get sunburned too, and melanoma on the foot or ankle is more likely

to be misdiagnosed than on any other part of the body. A study published in “The Journal of Foot & Ankle Surgery” reported the overall survival rate for melanoma of the foot or ankle is just 52%, in sharp contrast to the 85% survival rate for melanomas on other areas of the body. Apply sunscreen to the tops and bottoms of feet and limit sun exposure. Dr. Lawrence notes, “If you spot abnormal moles or pigmented skin, including under toenails, visit a foot and ankle surgeon. Early detection and treatment could save your life.”

• Pains and sprains: Summer sports can lead to arch pain, heel pain, ankle sprains and other injuries. Proper footwear with heel cushioning and arch support is essential, particularly on uneven surfaces, such as sandy beaches or hiking trails. If injury occurs, use the RICE approach: rest, ice, compression and elevation to ease pain and swelling. Any injury that doesn’t resolve within a few days should be examined by a foot and ankle surgeon.

• Mower risks: Some 25,000 Americans sustain injuries from power mowers annually, according to the U.S. Consumer Products Safety Commission. Many of these injuries are preventable. Always cut the grass in protective shoes or work boots and keep children away during this chore. Never mow a wet lawn or pull the mower backward,

and always mow across slopes, not up or down them.

• Travel concerns: Sitting for long stretches can increase the risk of dangerous blood clots. “Whether road tripping or flying, regularly stretch your legs and pump your feet to circulate blood. Wearing compression socks for longer travel is also a good idea,” says Dr. Lawrence.

• Diabetes complications: If you have diabetes, prolonged hot and humid weather can lead to numerous foot woes. Any type of skin break has the potential to get infected if it isn’t noticed right away, and exposure can cause dry, cracking skin. Inspect your feet daily and wear closed shoes whenever possible. Swelling is another hot-weather risk, potentially making shoes fit tighter which can cause blisters. Compression stockings may not sound appealing in hot temperatures, but they can reduce swelling and help prevent poor circulation. Finally, never go barefoot in summer. Impaired nerve sensation can make it hard to detect just how hot surfaces are. Just a few minutes walking barefoot on pavement to grab the newspaper can cause third-degree burns. For more information and to find a foot and ankle surgeon near you, visit FootHealthFacts.org, the patient education website for the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons.

Pain in your foot or ankle? It could be arthritis.

StatePoint

Arthritis in the feet and ankles can produce swelling and pain, deformity, loss of joint function and loss of mobility. Whereas previous generations had to accept this as a normal part of aging, an explosion of new therapies and surgical treatments is offering patients today both hope and relief. For best results however, foot and ankle surgeons urge early intervention.

“When it comes to arthritis, it’s important not to tough out symptoms or bear the pain,” says Danielle Butto, DPM, FACFAS, a foot and ankle surgeon and Fellow member of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons (ACFAS). “Earlier treatment is not just about alleviating symptoms sooner. In many cases, we can even slow the progression of the symptoms, and use less invasive procedures to treat the condition than we would otherwise.”

Understanding the early warning signs of arthritis, the progression of different forms of the disease and the new treatments available are important for getting the proper treatment and managing your symptoms.

OSTEOARTHRITIS

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative condition characterized by the breakdown and eventual loss of cartilage in the joints.

One common area where osteoarthritis occurs is the big toe. The big toe makes it possible for you to walk and run upright, absorbing forces equal to nearly twice your body weight when walking. With all it endures, it’s no surprise that overuse can erode cartilage, causing serious pain and even physical deformities. Nevertheless, many people confuse big toe arthritis, also known as hallux rigidus, with bunions.

Early signs of hallux rigidus include pain and stiffness during use, or during cold, damp weather, difficulty with activities like running and squatting, and swelling and inflammation around the joint. Additional symptoms may develop over time, including pain during rest, bone spurs, limping, and dull pain in the hip, knee or lower back due to changes in gait.

If you notice any of these symptoms, see a foot and ankle surgeon. Conservative treatments like shoe modifications, orthotic devices and physical therapy, may prevent or postpone the need for surgery. If you have mid- to end-stage arthritis in your foot or ankle, you may require next steps, such as ground-breaking cartilage regeneration treatment, implant surgery or the surgical removal of damaged cartilage and spurs, all of which have quick recovery periods.

“People with this disorder tend to suffer much longer than they need to,” says Dr. Butto. “They’re often pleasantly surprised when they find out their problem can be fixed.”

RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a disease in which certain cells of the immune system malfunction and attack healthy joints. Foot problems caused by RA commonly occur in the ball of the foot near the toes, although RA can also affect other areas of the foot and ankle. The most common signs and symptoms are pain, swelling, joint stiffness and difficulty walking, as well as a range of deformities, including rheumatoid nodules, dislocated toe joints, hammertoes, bunions, heel pain, Achilles tendon pain and flatfoot ankle pain.

As part of a team that includes a primary doctor or rheumatologist, your foot and ankle surgeon will develop a treatment plan aimed at relieving associated pain, which may include orthotic devices, accommodative shoes, aspiration of fluid build-up and steroid injections. When RA produces foot pain and deformities not relieved through other treatments, surgery may be required.

“Listening to your body and seeing a foot and ankle surgeon are so important. With today’s scientific advances, treatment can reduce pain and restore you to your previous mobility, strength and functionality,” says Dr. Butto.

For more information on foot and ankle arthritis or to find a foot and ankle surgeon near you, visit FootHealthFacts.org, the patient education website of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons.

WORD SEARCH SUDOKU CROSSWORD

46140

Transportation Volunteer Services Information & Referral Handyman

Serving older adults and disabled residents of Hancock County since 1978 with special services and programs to help them maintain their pride, self-worth, and

Serving older adults and disabled residents of Hancock County since 1978 with special services and programs to help them maintain their pride, self-worth, and independence.

We provide transportation for Hancock County residents of any age (under 16 with a parent/guardian).

transportation available.

We provide transportation for Hancock County residents of any age (under 16 with a parent/guardian).

Fill in the blank squares in the grid, making sure that every row, column and 3-by-3 box includes all digits 1 through 9.

Classic Cobb Salad

Recipes July 2023

IngredIents

6 cups torn iceberg lettuce

2 medium tomatoes, chopped

1 medium ripe avocado, peeled and chopped

3/4 cup diced fully cooked ham

2 hard-boiled large eggs, chopped

3/4 cup diced cooked turkey

1-1/4 cups sliced fresh mushrooms

1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese

Salad dressing of choice

Optional: Sliced ripe olives and lemon wedges

Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry

IngredIents

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

3 tablespoons cornstarch, divided

2 tablespoons plus 1/2 cup water, divided

1 pound boneless beef top round steak, cut into thin

2-inch strips

1/4 cup soy sauce

2 tablespoons brown sugar

1 teaspoon ground ginger

2 tablespoons canola oil, divided

4 cups fresh broccoli florets

1 small onion, cut into thin wedges

Hot cooked rice

dIrectIons

Mix pineapple, mandarin oranges, Cool Whip, sour cream, marshmallows, and shredded coconut together in a bowl.

Cover bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate until flavors blend. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours. Tastes even better when chilled overnight.

dIrectIons

Place lettuce on a platter or in a large serving bowl. Arrange remaining ingredients in rows or sections as desired. Serve with dressing of choice; if desired, serve with sliced ripe olives and lemon wedges.

Strawberry Icebox Cake

IngredIents

8 oz. cream cheese, at room temperature

1 c. powdered sugar

3 c. heavy cream, divided

1 tbsp. vanilla bean paste or extract

1 tbsp. lemon zest

20 graham cracker sheets

1 1/2 lb. strawberries, sliced about 1/4-inch thick (about 4 1/2 cups)

iced almonds (optional)

dIrectIons

Beat the cream cheese in the bowl of a stand mixer with the beater attachment until smooth. Add the powdered sugar; beat until smooth. Scrape down the sides of the bowl. Add 1 cup of the heavy cream and beat at low speed until smooth. Add the remaining 2 cups of cream; beat at medium to medium-high speed until soft peaks form, increasing the speed as the mixture begins to thicken. Fold in the vanilla and lemon zest. Spoon 1/4 cup of the cream mixture into the bottom of a 9-by-9-inch pan or baking dish; spread into a thin, even layer. Top with the graham crackers in a single, even layer, breaking them as needed to fit. Spread about 1 1/2 cups of the cream mixture over the graham crackers, smoothing into an even layer using a spoon or offset spatula. Top the cream mixture with an even layer of the berries (about 1 1/2 cups). Sprinkle evenly with 1/4 cup of the almonds, if using. Repeat one more time, then top with a final layer of graham crackers, cream mixture, and berries. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate at least four hours or up to overnight.

James Fletcher, DDS & Matthew Fletcher, DDS

James Fletcher, DDS & Matthew