The Milestone Magazine - Columbia River Gorge

Spring/Summer 2022

Senior Gardening

Arthritis & Exercise

Working After 65

Here’s how to feed your mind, body and soul — without ever going to the store.

Exercise such as walking, biking or swimming can actually decrease arthritis pain.

The financial and practical considerations of working past retirement.

INCLUDE S A G OR G E-WIDE SENIOR F O CUSED MEDIC AL DIRE C TOR Y

Redefining healthcare

IN THe CoLuMbIa RIveR GoRGe being your healthcare partner means being there for you when you are in need of care. It also means helping you stay healthy and fit. our hospital, specialty clinics, physicians and employees make up a one-of-a-kind healthcare system that is unique to the Gorge. With a philosophy built around person-centered care, you can look with confidence to MCMC as we redefine what it means to be a healthcare provider in the 21st century.

Mid-ColuMbia MediCal Center The community’s center of health for more than 100 years, offering a wide array of healthcare services that blend state-of-the-art technologies with compassionate and customized care.

the dalleS Main Hospital Primary Care & Specialty Clinics Immediate Care Center Medical Fitness Center

hood river Specialty Clinics at Nichols Landing 1901

2021

YEARS

Call: 541.296.1111 viSit: mcmc.net faCebook:

@MCMCHealth

WHAT’S INSIDE Inpatient Rehabilitation ............... 2 Recovering From Injury................ 6 Keep Nutrition in Mind................. 8 Staying Mentally Sharp.............. 10 Healthy Aging................................... 14 Choosing a Hospice..................... 16 Medical Directory........................... 18 Cardiologist Questions.............. 22 Medical Expenses..........................26

COVER STORIES

4

Arthritis and Exercise

12

Senior Gardening

24

Working After 65

Be Wary of Scams........................ 28 Challenge Your Mind................... 30

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THE MILESTONE | SPRING/SUMMER 2022

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Inpatient Rehabilitation Program at MCMC Awarded Re-Accreditation by CARF MCMC is one of only three accredited adult medical inpatient rehabilitation facilities in Oregon, and the only one in the Gorge.

Mid-Columbia Medical Center’s inpatient rehabilitation program has once again has earned a three-year, full accreditation from the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF), an independent nonprofit that accredits rehab programs in the U.S. and around the world. Accreditation means MCMC meets the most rigorous international standards, so Gorge patients do not have to travel to Portland for the highest quality treatment.

the lives of the patients we serve.”

The inpatient program is designed to increase independence for patients who have suffered serious or acute illnesses or injuries, including stroke, femur or hip fractures, brain injury, and amputations.

Accreditation is only granted to rehabilitation centers that go through a demanding

“The experience of being cared for at a large hospital for a traumatic illness or event can be very stressful on patients and their families,” said Lindsay Lederer, SLP, Director of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at MCMC. “Many patients don’t know that they have a choice of where they go when they are ready for rehabilitation. We are so pleased to be able to offer this high-quality service right here in the Gorge. Obtaining this certification every three years is testament to our team’s dedication and commitment to caring for and improving 2

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evaluation process, including peer review and on-site visits. To achieve accreditation, programs must demonstrate a commitment to the highest quality programs and treatments and offer measurable results. More than 90 percent of patients at MCMC’s inpatient rehabilitation program discharge back to the community, and outcomes for mobility and caring for oneself (i.e. dressing, bathing) exceed regional performance. Patients continue to report high satisfaction with their ability to function in the community long after discharge from the rehab program.

The inpatient rehabilitation program is designed to improve all facets of a patient’s condition -- emotional, psychological, and physical health. The specialized team of medical experts includes: •

Physical therapists

•

Occupational therapists

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•

Social workers

•

Rehabilitation medical director

•

Physicians

•

Rehabilitation nurses and patient care associates

•

Speech therapists

•

Therapeutic recreation specialists

•

Registered Dietitians

“Our thorough approach takes full advantage of the resources we have here,” said Lederer.

“Patients are cared for by a team that fully understands each individual’s situation and shares the same goals – getting them home as healthy and as fast as possible,” Founded in 1901, Mid-Columbia Medical Center is a nationally recognized hospital dedicated to serving residents of The Dalles and its surrounding communities. For more information visit mcmc.net.

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H E A LT H C O N D I T I O N S

Arthritis and Exercise

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Approximately 54 million Americans have arthritis. That is almost twenty five percent of America. Around half of those are limited in their activities because of arthritis and more than one in four adults with arthritis say they have severe joint pain. The most common form of arthritis is osteoarthritis, but there are other forms, too, including rheumatoid arthritis, gout and lupus. Symptoms of arthritis include pain, aching, joint stiffness and swelling.

WHAT IS ARTHRITIS? There are more than 100 types of arthritis.

Most of those cause pain and stiffness around affected joints, but some types can also affect other organs. People with inflammatory arthritis can also develop complications with other illnesses because they have weakened immune systems from the arthritis or the medications used to manage it.

Arthritis is usually diagnosed by taking a thorough medical history, conducting a physical examination, taking X-rays and blood tests. You can have more than one form of arthritis at a time, but with all of them, early diagnosis and treatment is critical.

can actually decrease arthritis pain. It also improves your mood and quality of life. The CDC recognizes several programs as being beneficial for arthritis sufferers, including the Arthritis Foundation Aquatic Program, the Active Living Everyday program, Enhance Fitness, Fit & Strong, Walk with Ease-Group and more.

Getting enough exercise can also help you maintain a healthy weight, which can reduce your risk of osteoarthritis, particularly in your hips, knees and ankles. You should talk to your doctor before starting any exercise program and particularly if you suffer from inflammatory arthritis, which is helped by early treatment and learning to manage the condition.

See your medical professional if you experience pain that is sharp, stabbing or constant; pain that causes you to limp; pain that lasts more than two hours after exercise or gets worse at night; pain or swelling that does not improve with rest, medication and hot or cold treatments; increases in swelling or your joints feeling hot.

PHYSICAL ACTIVITY Exercise such as walking, biking or swimming

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S T AY I N G A C T I V E

Recovering from an Injury As you may have already discovered, as we age, it’s not as easy to bounce back from an injury as it once was.

Especially if that injury forces you to sit out from your regular activities for any length of time. If you injure yourself while exercising, it can be tempting to abandon your new health routine. But stick with it. Here are some tips for recovering from injury from Helen Branthwaite, a senior lecturer in clinical biomechanics at Staffordshire University in Great Britain.

GO SLOW Just like when you started your exercise routine, you want to take your return to 6

working out slowly, allowing your muscles to completely recover between each session.

Gradually increase the number and type of exercises you do so that you don’t get too tired and sabotage the good form that helps keep you from getting injured in the first place.

STAND UP Part of restarting your exercise regimen is just getting back on your feet, literally.

Long periods of sitting significantly reduces muscle activity and muscle mass. Stretch well and move around as often as you can, even if you’ve taken to working from home during the pandemic. Focus on improving your posture and balance while you move.

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SWITCH IT UP Don’t just work on the same exercises every time, even though you may be comfortable with them. This can lead to repetitive strain injuries. Challenging yourself works both your brain and your muscles, improving not just your strength but also your balance, mobility and overall well being.

Make sure you’re not working the same muscle groups, either. Small, postural muscles like the tiny ones in your feet, play just as much of a role in keeping you healthy as the big muscles in your glutes.

Use activation and control exercises — small muscles, small movements — to help prevent injury.

TALK TO YOUR HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONAL As always, talk to your doctor before starting or restarting an exercise routine.

This is especially true if you sought treatment for your injury or changed medications during your time off. You need to make sure it’s safe for you to exercise before you get started again, and follow your doctor ’s recommendations about how much you tackle at a time. Keep them posted as you progress and have them recheck the injury at the first sign of trouble.

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H E A LT H Y H A B I T S

Keep Nutrition in Mind We all know we need to eat a healthy and balanced diet, but you may be surprised to learn that our nutritional needs change as we get older.

Older adults need fewer calories but generally need more protein and other vitamins and minerals.

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EATING HEALTHIER As you get older, you may not need as many calories as you did even in middle age. What you do still need are nutrients. Choose foods that are nutrient-dense and avoid empty calories such as those you get from chips, candy, soda and alcohol.

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Instead seniors should reach for fruits and vegetables in a variety of types and colors, whole grains, fat-free or low-fat dairy products, seafood, lean meats, eggs, beans, nuts and seeds.

Your diet should also be low in cholesterol and fat, especially saturated fats and trans fats from processed foods. Make sure you also drink enough liquids. Some people can lose their sense of thirst as they get older and some medications can affect your hydration. So make sure to drink enough to keep you adequately hydrated.

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TROUBLESHOOTING As your life changes, you may find it more difficult to eat at all, much less to eat healthfully. Try jazzing up your diet and your routine by organizing potluck meals or cooking with friends. See your health care professionals regularly to stay ahead of medical issues that can make it more difficult for you to eat well, such as dental problems or issues with swallowing. Add color and texture to your food to make it more interesting if you’re having trouble smelling and tasting your food and plan healthy snacks throughout the day to make sure you’re getting enough nutrients and calories.

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If an illness or disability is making it more difficult for you to eat well, your health care professional may be able to recommend an occupational therapist to work through ways to make it easier for you to eat healthfully.

You may lose your sense of hunger as you age as well; regular exercise can make you hungry and give you an overall sense of wellbeing that can lead to making better health decisions.

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www.campbellphillipslaw.com THE MILESTONE | SPRING/SUMMER 2022

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M E N T A L H E A LT H

Staying Mentally Sharp One of the biggest challenges as we age is keeping our minds sharp.

We’ve learned a lot of things over the years, but the joy of living is that there’s always something more. Our body ages, but your brain doesn’t necessarily have to. Here are a few key ways to stay sharp as you age.

STIMULATE YOUR BRAIN The brain is similar to a muscle in that it needs to be regularly exercised and given proper nutrition in order to stay strong.

Turn off the television, and try something a little more strenuous: Games, puzzles and 10

word and math problems are like trips to the local gym for your mind. Hobbies can be very effective, too, as they challenge us in different ways. If you’re more into the arts, try painting, drawing or a favorite craft.

Time spent listening to music can stimulate your brain as well, sparking memories while creating new ones.

EXERCISE HELPS, TOO Exercising your body actually has a positive impact on your mind, as a number of studies have linked physical exercise with healthy brains. These activities serve as natural THE MILESTONE | SPRING/SUMMER 2022

stress reducers, but they also help get more oxygen-rich blood to your brain — and that gets your cognitive gears turning. Exercise can even help spark new growth in the brain, including synapses and nerve cells.

While you work out, you’re also addressing other common issues associated with aging like diabetes and heart health. Talk to your doctor before starting any new exercise routine.

WATCH WHAT YOU EAT Diet is linked to better mental health at any age, but it’s particularly important as we grow older.

You’re probably already watching your caloric intake in order to deal with wellness and weight issues, but consider the brain benefits of eating healthier, too: Foods that

are high in saturated fats and cholesterol have been linked to mental decline for seniors. Health experts also recommend a regimen of B12, folic acid and B6. They reduce homocysteine levels, and your risk of dementia.

BE SOCIAL Strong ties to a group of friends has long been linked with health benefits like lower blood pressure, and that leads to longer lives. Local clubs, volunteer opportunities and church events also spark mental activity — and best of all, these kinds of non-profits and charity organizations are always in desperate need of volunteers, in particular seasoned helpers like you.

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HOBBIES

Senior Gardening

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Good nutrition is such an important part of wellness, but it can be difficult to find healthy choices.

That’s one reason to consider gardening as a senior. It also provides enough physical activity to increase blood flow, strengthen muscles and keep your mind engaged. Routine activity like gardening every day also reduces our risk of stroke, while opening the door to a longer, healthier life, according to the British Journal of Sports Medicine. Here’s how to feed your mind, body and soul — without ever going to the store.

BETTER NUTRITION Gardening is, of course, a cinch in suburban or rural communities. But even in urban areas, box gardens offer an every day alternative to processed, packaged and fast food which is loaded with unhealthy additives and healthimpacting negatives like cholesterol and salt.

Consuming fresh, organic produce in the form of healthful vegetables and fruits addresses a myriad of endemic health issues for seniors, and you’re saving money while participating in this sustainable activity.

There are also a variety of tools that make the process easier for seniors: Purchase a garden cart to make hauling supplies, fertilizer and tools easier. There are handheld blades that are specially hooked for weeding. Drip irrigation systems and soaker hoses eliminate the need for dragging a garden hose around.

PERFECT EXERCISE You’ll often see seniors walking through the local mall or neighborhood in a bid to stay active. Gardening provides similar benefits, and there’s a delicious payoff at the end. You’ll have to water, rake, pull weeds and pick fresh produce, just the kind of light exercises that help keep us fit without wearing us down.

And you’ll have to maintain a regular exercise schedule, because the plants require everyday attention. Afterward, you can gather around a table stuffed with organic foods to unwind and enjoy.

DON’T HAVE A YARD? Condo or apartment living can be ideal for busy seniors, but gardening becomes difficult if not impossible. That’s where local senior centers and gardening clubs come in. Many are funding programs meant to spark interest in gardening, building stand-alone projects in the community and providing educational classes on nutrition and cooking to help people turn their new hobby into finished meals.

TAKE IT EASY Gardening doesn’t have to be hard. Try raised beds, or large planters and pots, since they can be tended without having to bend over.

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THE GOLDEN YEARS

Healthy Aging Retirement used to mean riding off into the sunset. Nowadays, seniors live richer, fuller lives filled with friends, family and new adventures.

Having the right mindset is a big part of this active way of life. So is maintaining your own particular sense of grace and style. Here’s more on the art of aging gracefully.

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YOUR MINDSET Attitude plays such an important role in how we feel. Of course, that’s true of any age, but it’s particularly true for seniors. You are, as the saying goes, only as young as you feel. Staying positive helps us get through tough times, when family members may be having growing pains or a friend suffers health issues. But it also helps others, as your engagement with

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the world around you becomes contagious.

Growing older brings its own unique set of challenges; approaching it all with an upbeat demeanor is one of the key elements in aging gracefully. Smile, and the world smiles with you.

YOUR ENVIRONMENT Spend time with a social circle that helps keep you focused on the good things in life.

Remember that habits become our destiny. So, pick activities that foster a sense of well being and accomplishment, whether it’s joining the local gym, a civic or nonprofit organization, or a church group. Search out articles, websites and books that explore self actualization and fulfillment. Enjoy life for the adventure it always has been. Don’t be afraid to try that new look, or visit that new spot. Surround

yourself with positivity and you’ll be bolstered by all of it when things get more difficult.

YOUR SCHEDULE Find a new passion, and you’ll feel young again. Exercise, makeup or other beauty regimens offer the chance for a healthy glow, but so does living with purpose. Explore a hobby like gardening or crochet, make the local bingo night a regular stop, take up some form of crafting that brings you joy. Whatever you choose, leave the rocking chair behind.

Meaningful activities help us age gracefully by ensuring that we don’t experience boredom or isolation. Bring a friend when you start these activities, or make new ones while you’re there.

You can turn back the clock together.

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END OF LIFE CARE

Choosing a Hospice Finding a provider for end-of-life care, although difficult, is one of our final acts of love for anyone who’s been enduring debilitating health issues.

There are a range of important questions to ask before choosing a hospice, and finding the answers will go a long way toward easing this final decision.

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WHAT IS HOSPICE? Hospice care focuses on quality of life for those who are experiencing the last stages of incurable disease. The philosophy is to make patients as comfortable as possible through this difficult time, treating symptoms rather than the disease itself. Caregivers concentrate on giving these remaining days a sense of dignity, offering family centered

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options so everyone can be together to say goodbye.

WHAT TO ASK Properly researching your options can be daunting, but the National Association of Home Care and Hospice offers free resources to help guide the way. They recommend asking a series of basic questions before deciding: Will the patient and family members be included in development of a care plan? Does the provider have a Patient Bill of Rights? Will you be given your own copy of a comprehensive plan? They also urge you to discuss training procedures for hospice employees, whether supervisors will be onsite to ensure quality care, and confidentiality guidelines. Make sure caregivers are available all day, every day.

DON’T WAIT TOO LONG Hospice care is required when illnesses become so advanced that doctors can no longer control or cure them. In general, the decision to switch to this form of palliative care is made when life expectancy is roughly six months or less, based on the disease running its usual course. Studies show, however, that hospice care is often not started early enough. Patients and family members may see hospice as a form of giving up hope. But returning comfort and family support to those who are suffering through end-of-life issues can provide a much-needed sense of closure, making the best of every day in these last stages. At the same time, if patients improve, they can always leave hospice and return to active treatment.

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THE MILESTONE | SPRING/SUMMER 2022

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THE MILESTONE SENIOR DIRECTORY ▌ADULT FOSTER CARE HOMES A Home Sweet Home Hood River, OR • 541-387-5335 Anita Allen Foster Care The Dalles, OR • 541-352-3504 Carolyn’s Adult Care The Dalles, OR • 541-298-2554 Cascade Senior Care The Dalles, OR • 541-993-2910

Providence Brookside Manor Memory Care Hood River, OR • 541-387-6370

▌ASSISTED LIVING, NURSING & ▌RETIREMENT HOMES Ashley Manor Hood River, OR • 541-387-4514 Bobbi’s Way In-Home Health Care Hood River, OR • 541-436-4515

Cherry Street Manor II Canyon Rim Manor White Salmon, WA • 509-493-1084 Maupin, OR • 541-395-2515 Eastern Oregon Center for Independent Living The Dalles, OR • 541-370-2810 Margie’s Lyle Adult Family Home Lyle, WA • 509-365-5500 New Hope Farms Goldendale, WA • 509-773-3939

▌ALZHEIMER’S & MEMORY CARE Ashley Manor Hood River, OR • 541-387-4514 Flagstone Senior Living The Dalles, OR • 541-298-5656 18

Cascade Senior Care The Dalles, OR • 541-993-2910 Cherry Heights Retirement The Dalles, OR • 541-296-6880 Columbia Basin Care The Dalles, OR • 541-296-2156 Flagstone Senior Living The Dalles, OR • 541-298-5656 Hawks Ridge Assisted Living Hood River, OR • 541-387-4087 Hearts of Gold Caregivers Hood River, OR • 541-387-0207

Helping Hands Home Care The Dalles, OR • 541-436-4430 Hood River Care Center Hood River, OR • 541-386-2688 New Hope Farms Goldendale, WA • 509-773-3939 Oregon Veterans’ Home The Dalles, OR • 541-296-7190 Parkhurst Place Assisted Living Hood River, OR • 541-387-4600 Providence Brookside Manor Hood River, OR • 541-387-6370 Providence Dethman Manor Hood River, OR • 541-387-8278 Providence Down Manor Hood River, OR • 541-387-8290 Summit Springs Village Condon, OR • 541-384-2101 Rock Cove Assisted Living Stevenson, WA • 509-427-7272 The Dalles Health & Rehab The Dalles, OR • 541-298-5158 The Springs at Mill Creek The Dalles, OR • 541-296-1303

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▌DENTURISTS The Denture Specialist Hood River, OR • 541-386-2012 The Dalles, OR • 541-296-3310

▌ELDER ABUSE PREVENTION ▌ASSISTANCE & ADVOCACY Adult Protective Services 800-452-2333

Spencer Libby & Powell Funeral Home The Dalles, OR • 541-296-3234

One Community Health Hood River, OR • 541-386-6380 The Dalles, OR • 541-296-4610

▌HEARING AIDS TESTS & ▌COUNSELORS

White Salmon Family Practice White Salmon, WA • 509-493-1470

Cascade Hearing Aid Center Hood River, OR • 541-386-1666 The Dalles, OR • 541-296-3300

MCMC Internal Medicine The Dalles, OR • 541-506-6920

▌HOME HEALTH SERVICES

Columbia Gorge Hearing Care Hood River, OR • 541-298-8676 Bobbi’s Way In-Home Health Care Helping Hands Against Violence Hood River, OR • 541-436-4515 The Dalles, OR • 541-298-8676 Hood River, OR • 541-386-6603 Haven from Domestic & Sexual Violence The Dalles, OR • 541-298-4789 Skamania County APS 877-734-6277 (TTY) 1-800-977-5456 Klickitat County APS 800-459-0421 (TTY) 509-568-3086

▌FUNERAL HOMES Anderson’s Tribute Center: Celilo Chapel Hood River, OR • 541-386-1000 The Dalles, OR • 541-296-2600

Hear’s The Answer Hearing Center The Dalles, OR • 541-298-5558 Hearing Aid Counselors Hood River, OR • 541-387-3277 My Hearing Centers Hood River, OR • 541-716-4086

▌HEALTH CLINICS Columbia Gorge Family Medicine Hood River, OR • 541-386-5070 KVH Family Medicine Goldendale, WA • 509-773-4017

Mid-Columbia Family Health Columbia Hills Memorial Center Chapel Stevenson, WA • 509-427-4212 Goldendale, WA • 509-773-4646 NorthShore Medical Group Gardner Funeral Home Inc White Salmon, WA • 509-493-2133 White Salmon, WA • 509-493-1323 THE MILESTONE | SPRING/SUMMER 2022

Hearts of Gold Caregivers Hood River, OR • 541-387-0207 Helping Hands Home Care The Dalles, OR • 541-436-4430 MCMC Visiting Health Services The Dalles, OR • 541-296-7280 Providence Home Health Hood River, OR • 541-387-6339

▌HOSPICE CARE Heart of Hospice Hood River, OR • 541-386-1942 Klickitat Valley Health Hospice Goldendale, WA • 509-773-0380 Providence Hospice of The Gorge Hood River, OR • 541-387-6449 The Dalles, OR • 541-296-3228

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▌HOSPITALS Klickitat Valley Health Goldendale, WA • 509-773-4022 Mid-Columbia Medical Center The Dalles, OR • 541-296-1111 Providence Hood River Memorial Hospital Hood River, OR • 541-386-3911

▌MENTAL HEALTH AND SUPPORT ▌GROUPS

Mid-Columbia Center for Living The Eyeglass Store Hood River, OR • 541-386-2620 Hood River, OR • 541-386-3937 The Dalles, OR • 541-296-5452 White Salmon Eye Care Brookside Manor Alzheimer’s White Salmon, WA • 509-493-2020 Dementia Support Group Hood River, OR • 541-387-6370

Flagstone Alzheimer’s & Skyline Hospital Dementia Support Group White Salmon, WA • 509-493-1101 The Dalles, OR • 541-298-5656

▌MEALS & FOOD ASSISTANCE ▌PROGRAMS FISH Food Bank Hood River, OR • 541-386-3474 Goldendale Food Bank Goldendale, WA • 509-773-5220 Meals on Wheels Hood River, OR • 541-386-2060 The Dalles, OR • 541-298-8333 Stevenson Food Bank Stevenson, WA • 509-427-4334 St. Vincent DePaul Meals The Dalles, OR • 541-296-9566 WGAP Food Bank Bingen, WA • 509-493-2662 800-755-1192

Grief Share Hood River, OR • 541-386-1049 Parkinson’s Support Group Hood River, OR • 541-340-0142 Cancer Support Groups The Dalles, OR • 541-296-7585 Cancer CARE Support Group Hood River, OR • 541-387-6445

▌OPTOMETRISTS Cascade Eye Center Hood River, OR • 541-386-2402 The Dalles, OR • 541-296-1101 Hood River Vision Clinic Hood River, OR • 541-386-2747 Indian Creek Family Eye Care Hood River, OR • 541-386-1700 Mid-Columbia Vision The Dalles, OR • 541-296-2911

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Preferred Optical The Dalles, OR • 541-296-5878

▌SENIOR SERVICES & ASSISTANCE Addus Healthcare Vancouver, WA (serving Klickitat County) 360-699-1222 ADRC Aging and Disability Resource Connection 855-673-2372 Chesterfield Services, Inc. Stevenson, WA • 509-427-0068 877-509-6847 Department of Human Services Hood River, OR • 541-386-3199 The Dalles, OR • 541-298-4114 Eldercare Locator 800-677-1116 Gorge Action Program Main Office Bingen, WA • 509-493-2662 (800) 755-1192 Gorge Action Program Goldendale, WA • 509-773-6834 800- 755-1192 Ext 300

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Gorge Action Program Skamania County Stevenson, WA • 509-427-8229 800-755-1192 Ext 311

Senior Health Insurance Benefits Assistance 541-645-5351 541-298-4101

Hood River Valley Adult Community Center Hood River, OR • 541-386-2060

Washington State Department of Social and Health Services 877-501-2233

Klickitat County Senior Services Washington State Home & White Salmon, WA • 509-493-3068 Community Services Goldendale, WA • 509-773-3757 Referral Line 1-866-323-9409 Mid-Columbia Council of Governments Area Agency SOCIAL, EDUCATIONAL & on Aging RECREATIONAL The Dalles, OR • 541-298-4101

▌ ▌

Mid-Columbia Community Action Hood River, OR • 541-386-4027 The Dalles, OR • 541-298-5131 Mid-Columbia Senior Center The Dalles, OR • 541-296-4788 Oregon Senior Peer Outreach Program Columbia River Gorge 833-736-4676 Programs for Peaceful Living Goldendale, WA • 509-773-6100 800-755-1192 Ext 320 Bingen, WA • 509-493-1533 800-755-1192 Ext 334 Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid 1-800-772-1213

Hood River Valley Adult Center Hood River, OR • 541-386-2060

Link Bus The Dalles, OR • 541-296-7595 Mt. Adams Transportation Service White Salmon, WA • 509-493-4662 Goldendale, WA • 509-773-3060

▌VETERANS’ SERVICES Veterans’ Services Hood River County • 541-386-1080 Wasco County • 541-506-2502 Oregon Veterans’ Home The Dalles, OR • 541-296-7190 American Legion Hood River, OR • 541-308-0000 The Dalles, OR • 541-296-9633

Mid-Columbia Senior Center The Dalles, OR • 541-296-4788

For additional resources visit your counties senior services online at

Community Education Hood River, OR • 541-386-2055

Hood River County www.hoodrivercounty.org

Hood River Aquatic Center Hood River, OR • 541-386-1303

Klickitat County www.klickitatcounty.org

Wasco County Aquatic Center The Dalles, OR • 541-296-9533

Sherman County www.co.sherman.or.us

▌TRANSPORTATION & SERVICES

Skamania County www.skamaniacounty.org

CAT Bus Hood River, OR • 541-386-4202

Wasco County www.wascocounty.org

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DOCTORS

Questions for Your Cardiologist

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A cardiologist is a doctor who specializes in finding, treating and preventing issues in the cardiovascular system, including the heart, arteries and veins.

Your primary care or other doctor may refer you to a cardiologist if they suspect you have problems such as congenital heart defects, heart rhythm problems, heart blockages or heart failure.

“Your primary care physician is the gatekeeper to your care,” said Dr. Tarak Rambhatla at Baptist Health of South Florida’s Miami Cardiac & Vascular Institute. “Many times, primary care doctors send their patients to me because they see a risk or their patient is having symptoms. As a cardiologist, I work with your primary doctor and communicate back to him or her about what any tests uncover and any treatments we recommend.” Cardiologists undergo rigorous training, including four years of premedical education at a college or university, the University of Rochester says. This includes four years of medical school and three years of training in an internal medicine residency program. Then, they have three or more years in a fellowship program.

PREPARING FOR YOUR APPOINTMENT It is recommended to get copies of your medical records and test results. Having them on a CD is best for doctors to review along with written reports. You also want to note down your symptoms, when they occur and what makes them worse or better. Bring a list of your medications, including over-the-counter medications, vitamins and supplements.

ASK THESE QUESTIONS The University of Iowa suggest these 10 questions for your cardiologist. It suggests writing the questions down to get your concerns addressed.

1. How does my family history affect my heart health?

2. Is my blood pressure reading normal?

3. What is my cholesterol level and how does this affect my heart?

4. Am I experiencing a heart symptom due to my age, gender or weight?

5. Are my symptoms indicating a heart attack?

6. Are my eating habits causing my heart symptoms?

7. Are my exercise habits causing my symptoms?

8. Is my level of stress or anxiety increasing my risk of heart complications?

9. What are my treatment options for the heart symptoms I’m having?

10. What should I do if my symptoms persist?

TESTING Your cardiologist may order some testing to get a better idea of your overall health. This can include blood work, electrocardiograms, lifestyle risk assessments and a coronary calcium score.

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INCOME SOURCES

Working After 65 While many of us hope that we’re laid back in a hammock on a sunny beach by the time we’re 65, the reality for many people is that they’re going to keep working far beyond full retirement age.

Here’s a look at the financial and practical considerations involved.

RECEIVING SOCIAL SECURITY Social Security, the federal government’s retirement safety net, usually kicks in at 65. However, you can work and still receive 24

benefits. If you’re full retirement age — 65 — your earnings do not reduce your Social Security benefit. The Social Security Administration offers a calculator so that you can see how any earnings may affect your potential benefit.

WORKING AND MEDICARE Generally, Medicare says, if you have jobbased health insurance for you or your spouse and you’re over 65, you don’t have to sign up for Medicare unless you lose that

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coverage, either through retirement of by some other means. If your employer has fewer than 20 employees, you may have to sign up for Medicare when you turn 65 regardless so you won’t have gaps in your coverage. Check with your employer to see.

Medicare will work with your existing insurance if you are over 65. Which plan pays first — Medicare or your job-based insurance — depends on how many employees the company has. Remember, Medicare has different plans, or parts, depending on your needs. Medicare Part A is hospital insurance and covers inpatient hospital stays, care in a skilled nursing facility, hospice and some home health care. Part B covers medical services like doctors, outpatient care and some preventive services. Medicare Part C, or Medicare Advantage is a plan that provides coverage through a private-sector health insurer. Part D is prescription drug

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coverage. You may not need to sign up for all the parts of Medicare.

AGE DISCRIMINATION As you age, you may be more concerned about being discriminated against because of your age. The federal Age Discrimination in Employment Act forbids age discrimination against people who are 40 or older. It prohibits discrimination in any aspect of employment, including hiring, firing, pay, job assignments, promotions, layoffs, training, benefits and any other term or condition of employment. It also covers harassing a person because of their age, such as making offensive or derogatory remarks about a person’s age. Teasing isn’t covered, but frequent comments that create a hostile or offensive work environment is.

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H E A LT H C A R E E X P E N S E S

Managing Medical Expenses

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Once you hit 65, you run the real risk of managing your medical costs becoming, well, a full-time job.

Just the thing you wanted to avoid in your golden years. Juggling all the Medicare parts, along with any job-related insurance and the health problems older Americans tend to have can be daunting. Here are some tips for managing medical costs as you age, no matter where your insurance coverage comes from.

USE AN HSA Health savings accounts help you put pretax money away to cover medical expenses later. You can invest the money or you can use them tax-free for eligible medical costs. HSAs cover expenses with a highdeductible plan, however, so talk with your financial adviser to consider if that kind of plan makes sense for you. If it does, you can save up to $3,600 as a single person or up to $7,200 if you have family coverage.

MAKE SENSE OF MEDICARE Finding the right Medicare plan can help you dodge out-of-network and out-ofpocket costs.

MANAGE LONG-TERM CARE Someone turning 65 today has about a 70% chance of needing longterm care, the federal government says, so it’s something you need to plan for.

Look at buying a traditional longterm care plan or consider a hybrid insurance product that can combine life insurance with a long-term care rider. You can also set aside money the old-fashioned way, just make sure you don’t touch it. No matter what you do, let your family know what you’ve done.

It’s uncomfortable, but thorough planning can save you in the long run.

BE AN ACTIVE PATIENT Follow your doctor’s advice and ask plenty of questions to make sure you have a good understanding of what’s being done.

If your provider orders tests, ask them what they hope to learn from it and how it may affect treatment, Carolyn McClanahan, a physician turned CFP in Florida.

“A lot of times, doctors order things rotely,” she told the Associated Press. “It’s part of their protocol and they don’t stop and think, ‘Is it really needed in this case?’”

You also need to weigh if you want access to all doctors who accept Medicare — as with an original Medicare plan — or if you’re willing to have a limited network and enjoy more benefits as part of a Medicare Advantage plan.

It may be worth the fee to find a professional agent or financial planner who can help you parse all the Medicare parts and their benefits.

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S T AY S A F E

Be Worry of Scams The FBI reports that seniors lost almost $1 billion to scammers in 2020, with an average loss of $9,175 per targeted person. Almost 2,000 older Americans lost more than $100,000.

“Each year, millions of elderly Americans fall victim to some type of financial fraud or internet scheme, such as romance scams, tech support fraud, and lottery or sweepstakes scams,” Calvin Shivers, assistant director of the FBI’s criminal division told ABC News. “Criminals gain their targets’ trust or use tactics of intimidation and threats to take advantage of their victims.

Once successful, scammers are likely to keep a scheme going because of the prospect of significant financial gain.”

Here are some common types of scams and how to protect yourself from them.

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IMPOSTER SCAMS In these scams, criminals pose as officials from government agencies, banks, or even friends or family members to trick people into revealing bank account numbers, passwords and other personal information. In California alone, more than $10 million has been lost to scams where fraudsters pretend to be from the IRS. The Department of Treasury says to hang up immediately if someone calls you claiming to be from the IRS. If there really is a problem with your taxes, Treasury says you’ll get a notice in the mail first. And their agents will never ask for personal financial information.

ROMANCE SCAMS Reported losses from these scams, in which someone creates a fake profile on dating sites or social media and reach out to vulnerable people, topped $300 million in 2020, making them the THE MILESTONE | SPRING/SUMMER 2022

leading cause of fraudulent financial loss across all age groups. Older people are the least vulnerable age group — most of them being wary of online dating or already partnered — but they did have the highest median loss from this type of fraud. Never send money to someone you haven’t met in person. You can also do a reverse image search — or have a friend or family member do one for you — to see if a profile is using real pictures or not.

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ONLINE SHOPPING SCAMS People over the age of 60 lost at least $14 million from online scams in 2020 as the internet became many people’s primary means of shopping during the pandemic. Online, scammers can set up websites that appear legitimate and lure consumers in with low prices, then swipe your information. Be wary of deals that are too good to be true and watch out if an online merchant asks you to pay in an unconventional way, such as with a money order.

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Licensed Denturists Melanie & Chris Chapman http://www.yourdenturist.com/

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G A M E PA G E

SUKOKU: CHALLENGE YOUR MIND Each row must contain the numbers from 1 to 9, without repititions.

The digits can only occur once per block.

GAME 1

GAME 2

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G A M E PA G E

ANSWERS: CHALLENGE YOUR MIND

GAME 1

GAME 2

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