Dec 2013 nh pages by Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging

A publication of the Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging

December 2013 VOL. 38 • NO. 12

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Nebraska Photo by Merie Wallace/Courtesy of the Paramount Pictures Corporation

Veteran actor Bruce Dern stars in Alexander Payne’s new film Nebraska. Leo Adam Biga takes a behind the scenes look at Nebraska, profiles a few of the productions’s older co-stars, and examines some issues older Americans face that are highlighted in the movie which was shot in black and white. Page 4.

If I were a sculptor... Momo Serra (standing) from the WhyArts? program with student Rita Murphy during a recent sculpture class at the Corrigan Senior Center. Page 10.

Corrigan Senior Center events calendar You’re invited to visit the Corrigan Senior Center, 3819 X St. this month for: • Dec. 5: St. Nicholas celebration. Join us for chair volleyball @ 10 a.m., holiday games (with prizes) @ 11 a.m., lunch, and Bingo. Wear your holiday attire. Snacks to share are always welcome. The noon lunch is crunchy Pollock or a deli ham sandwich. • Dec. 9: “Carols at Corrigan” an old fashion Christmas party with Corrigan seniors Ivy Forrest on the violin and keyboardist Margaret Mary Novak @ 11 a.m. Bring holiday cookies or snacks to share. The noon lunch is meatball stroganoff or a deli crab salad. Bingo will follow lunch. Come early for 10 a.m. chair volleyball. • Dec. 11: Chair volleyball with visitors from the Bellevue Senior Center @ 10:30 a.m. Stay for a noon turkey breast dinner or

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a deli turkey sandwich. • Dec. 16: Presentation on Hope for the Holiday by Cathy Fox of Ted E. Bear Hollow @ 10 a.m. Christmas program by children from St. Peter & Paul’s @ 11 a.m. Enjoy a noon lunch of a BBQ rib patty or an oriental chicken salad. Bingo will follow lunch. • Dec. 18: Special Christmas lunch of roast beef with mushroom gravy, rosemary potatoes, broccoli with cheese sauce, a wheat roll, and strawberry cheesecake pudding. • Dec. 19: December birthday party featuring a roast beef dinner and Mega Bingo. Rockin’ Woody from the Twin Cities will entertain us @ 10:30 a.m. Lunch is roast beef, a baked potato, California blend veggies, a tossed salad, wheat rolls, and chocolate pudding. The reservation deadline is noon on Friday, Dec. 12. • Dec. 30: Mismatch Monday. Prizes for the most mismatched clothing outfits. Mix up those new holiday socks and gloves! Stay for a noon lunch of ham and potato casserole or a deli tuna salad. Bingo to follow lunch. Come early for chair volleyball @ 11 a.m. The Corrigan Senior Center is open weekdays from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Lunch is served at noon. A $3 donation is normally suggested for the meal. Reservations are normally due by noon the business day prior to the meal you wish to enjoy. We offer chair volleyball Tuesday and Thursday @ 11 a.m., Tai Chi on Tuesday and Thursday @ 10 a.m., card games, Bingo, ceramics, exercise, woodcarving, and loads of fun! For meal reservations or more information, please call Lynnette at 402-731-7210.

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December 2013

Volunteers needed for AARP’s income tax preparation program The AARP Foundation’s Tax-Aide program is the nation’s largest free, volunteer-run tax preparation and assistance service. The program provides free income tax services, focusing on low to middle income taxpayers age 60 and older who need help preparing their tax return. No one, however, is turned away because of income or age. The Tax-Aide program in Nebraska has 23 sites, including seven in Douglas County and two in Sarpy County. AARP’s local Tax Aide program needs more volunteers. AARP membership is not required. The greatest need is for tax preparers who work directly with taxpayers to complete individual tax returns. Prior tax or accounting experience is preferred but not required. Volunteers receive instruction in tax laws, completion of tax forms, and the computer software required to file a return. Greeters who welcome taxpayers, help organize their paperwork, and manage the overall flow of services are also needed. To volunteer with the AARP Foundation’s Tax-Aide program, go to aarp.org/taxaide. E-Mail questions to omaha.taxaide@gmail.com or call 402-398-9568.

Medicare Part D open enrollment period runs through Saturday, Dec. 7 Each year, the open enrollment period for Medicare Part D brings changes that can affect plan selections for nearly 50 million Medicare beneficiaries. This year the rollout of the Health Insurance Marketplace will overlap with the Medicare open enrollment timeframe and may be confusing to people on Medicare. Through Dec. 7, Medicare beneficiaries have the option to change their Medicare Part D coverage for 2014. This includes anyone using original Medicare, Medicare Advantage, or Part D prescription drug plans. By comparing the health and prescription drug plans available for 2014, it may be possible to save money and get improved coverage by switching to a different plan. In 2014, beneficiaries should remember: • Medicare isn’t part of the Health Insurance Marketplace. Beneficiaries don’t have to replace their Medicare coverage with the Marketplace coverage established by the Affordable Care Act (ACA). Your Medicare is protected and you don’t need to do anything with the Marketplace during the open enrollment period. • Overall, enrollees can expect a year of flat or decreasing Medicare prescription drug costs. The Department of Health Monday, Dec. 2 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. VAS 1941 S. 42nd St. Room 502 402-444-6617

and Human Services has reported the Part D monthly premiums should remain relatively stable. However, because of the lower prices, beneficiaries may enter the “donut hole” or “coverage gap” more quickly than before. As a result of the ACA, however, there’s better coverage in the gap once the beneficiary gets there. • During the open enrollment timeframe, Medicare beneficiaries can also review and change Medicare Advantage plans (health and drug coverage combined). Common changes in MA plans can include costs such as premiums and co-pays or changes to covered procedures. Not all plans change every year. Volunteers Assisting Seniors serves as the Nebraska Senior Health Insurance Information Program regional office in the Omaha area providing free, unbiased information to Medicare beneficiaries. VAS will be holding enrollment events throughout the area during the open enrollment (see below). At these events, Medicare beneficiaries can sit down with a trained counselor for assistance evaluating their options for 2014. Assistance is also available outside of the Omaha area by calling 800-234-7119.

Friday, Dec. 6 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Goodwill 4805 N. 72nd St. 402-444-6617

Wednesday, Dec. 4 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Immanuel AgeWell 6801 N. 67th Plz. Suite 100 402-444-6617

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New Horizons New Horizons is the official publication of the Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging. The paper is distributed free to people over age 60 in Douglas, Sarpy, Dodge, Washington, and Cass counties. Those living outside the 5-county region may subscribe for $5 annually. Address all correspondence to: Jeff Reinhardt, Editor, 4223 Center Street, Omaha, NE 68105-2431. Phone 402-444-6654. FAX 402-444-3076. E-mail: jeff.reinhardt@nebraska.gov

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Editor..............................................Jeff Reinhardt Ad Mgr................Mitch Laudenback, 402-444-4148 Contributing Writers......Nick Schinker, Leo Biga, & Lois Friedman ENOA Board of Governors: Mary Ann Borgeson, Douglas County, chairperson; Jim Warren, Sarpy County, vice-chairperson; Jerry Kruse, Washington County, secretary; Gary Osborn, Dodge County, & Jim Peterson, Cass County. The New Horizons and the Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging provide services without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, marital status, disability, or age.

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Filmmaker Payne returns home to direct ‘Nebraska’

Director Alexander Payne’s ‘Nebraska’ captures elements of his home state never before seen on the big screen. By Leo Adam Biga Contributing Writer

scar-winning native son Alexander Payne famously feels affection for his home state, so much so he’s made four of his six feature films here, even titling his new movie starring Bruce Dern and Will Forte, Nebraska. Payne, also the writer-director of Citizen Ruth, Election, About Schmidt, Sideways, and The Descendants, has with Nebraska forever burnished the name of this state in cinema history. The film stands apart from most flicks today. For starters, it’s in black and white. Next, it captures elements of this Great Plains state never before seen on the big screen. Largely filmed in northeast Nebraska, the movie shows the rolling landscapes, prosaic farmsteads, played-out small towns, and crusty denizens of this starkly beautiful rural region. The “Nebraska Gothic” picture plays like a funny, tragic, and sad still life evocation of people and places rubbed raw by weather and misfortune. But what really makes Nebraska a singular work is the preponderance of older adults in the picture and the various aging themes that permeate its storyline. Several older actors are featured in the nostalgialaced story starting with Dern as protagonist Woody Grant, June Squibb as his wife, Stacy Keach as Woody’s arch nemesis, Angela McEwan as his old flame, Mary Louise Wilson as Grant’s chatty sister-in-law Martha, and Rance Howard as one of his brothers. Payne’s casting director, John Jackson, is impressed by what these actors of a certain age bring to the table. “They are pros. They are inspirational to me. Their desire to create, passion to succeed, (and) pursuit of challenges to themselves as performers – I want that as I age,” Jackson said. “I can only hope to be as fully functional as Mr. Dern, Mary Louise Wilson, June Squibb, and Stacy Keach.”

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The movie’s fanciful tale revolves around Dern’s character of Woody, a cantankerous cuss who’s lost some bearings in old age. He’s seemingly unaffected by anything but hides a deep well of hurt, longing, and regret. Like many males of his Depression-era generation Woody doesn’t reveal much in the way of his feelings. Much to the exasperation of his wife and two adult sons, Grant’s stuck in his ways and bad habits and refuses to change. He’s also facing some challenges that come with advancing years. For example, he’s no longer able to drive and he walks with a halting gait. Woody appears depressed, confused, and cut off from others. When we first meet Grant he’s running away from home, intent on walking the 900 miles from his residence in Billings, Mt. to Lincoln, Neb. to claim a sweepstakes prize he believes he’s won. Even after he returns home from the walk, no one can convince Woody he’s got it wrong. More than once, he lights out to tramp alongside busy roads in all kinds of weather as his son David comes to his father’s rescue. Realizing his old man is still bound and determined to go to Nebraska, and afraid his father will be a hazard if he sets out again on his own, David reluctantly agrees to take Woody to Lincoln, convinced Grant will come to his senses before they get too far. But things happen. The father-son road trip turns into a retracing of Woody’s old haunts in his native Nebraska. Along the way the son learns some hard truths about his father’s past that help explain why Grant’s the way he is and what’s behind Woody’s crazy “Don Quixote” quest to redeem a prize.

Bruce Dern won the Best Actor award at the Cannes Film Festival for his role as Woody Grant in ‘Nebraska.’ pieces for actual checks and bring them to their bank thinking they can cash them. “That will happen unfortunately,” she adds. Legitimate sweepstakes are one thing, but there are scams that prey on the trusting nature and sometimes naiveté of older adults, according to Stanton. “We encourage our clients to never give out personal information on the phone,” she says, adding one should never have to divulge private details or send money as a condition for receiving a prize. “The Better Business Bureau has a Senior Line number (877-6373334) we strongly encourage our clients to keep by their phone and to call anytime they suspect they’re being scammed.” Stanton says the free BBB hotline frequently updates information about the newest scams to avoid.

hether Woody’s gullible, addled, or simply wants to believe he’s won the sweepstakes prize, it becomes apparent what he’s really seeking is redemption. He wants to leave his boys something to salvage his misbegotten life. In an act of unconditional love and forgiveness David poignantly grants his father a valedictory moment at the end of the movie.

astern Nebraska Office on Aging staff members say they don’t know of any older adult who’s gone so far as to show up at a sweepstakes office expecting to collect their winnings. ENOA Care Management Program Coordinator Diane Stanton says some older men and women, however, do mistake marketing

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Best known for his long stint on ‘Saturday Night Live,’ Will Forte co-stars in ‘Nebraska’ as Woody’s son David.

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Woody’s problems are still with him but he and his son have become closer and the lines of communication have opened. Viewers are left with the feeling that should something happen to Woody or his wife; David will be there for them.

xperts say adult children need to discuss with their aging parents those limitations affecting quality of life and what role the children will play in terms of support and caregiving. ENOA’s Information and Assistance Program Coordinator Gloria Erickson says she and her staff field dozens of telephone calls each week from adult children inquiring about a variety of issues including financial assistance, home care, senior housing, and transportation for their aging parents. If an adult child feels the parent is a potential risk driving, for example, Stanton says a good course of action is to seek professional consultation. “The first thing you need to do is talk to their doctor and get the doctor’s perspective and opinion on where the parent is physically and cognitively in regards to driving,” she says. Stanton says the Alegent Immanuel Medical Center offer assessments or evaluations to help determine if an older adult is still able to drive safely. AARP offers a self-test older men and women can take online and two different safe driving classes (see page 9). Assessments or not, an adult child may still need to have a conversation with an aging parent about surrendering their keys, Erickson says. “Those heart to heart discussions are tough,” she says because it means the parent may be giving up some of their independence. “Family dynamics have a lot to do too with how things go.” Karen Kelly, who coordinates ENOA’s SeniorHelp Program, says whatever aspect of daily living an older adult may need assistance with, it’s always best to give them options. --Please turn to page 5.

Experiences with parents made film personal for Payne

Angela McEwan plays Woody’s old flame Peg Nagy, a local newspaper editor. --Continued from page 4. She says among the changes in behavior adult children should look out for in their aging parents are increased memory loss, growing social isolation, worsening sleep issues, increasing difficulty walking up and down stairs, and maintaining their home’s upkeep. As adult children notice changes in their parents, Kelly says they need to address what they can do to help, step in to fill those gaps, and determine when to start looking outside the family for help. ENOA’s Erickson says it’s vital family members know “you don’t have to do it alone.” ENOA offers a variety of programs and services designed to keep older adults living independently and with dignity for as long as possible in their own homes.

lexander Payne says he was better prepared to tell the story of Nebraska in 2012 than in 2003 when he acquired Bob Nelson’s script. Payne’s own life had caught up with some of the film’s themes. His father George was placed in a nursing home and his mother Peggy endured a health scare. Payne attended to his parents’ needs. “I was able to make it quite personal in certain details related to David taking care of his older folk,” Payne says. “I’m at that age and everyone I know of my generation at that age have parents that are getting on (in age) and need a little special attention.” Because they love them to death, Payne says adult children need to determine how to take care of their parents. “How far do we extend ourselves to be dutiful?” he asks. “It (Nebraska) wound up being (the way it is) because of the time in my life when I was making it (became) quite personal and I think that helps the film. It always helps a film if you can put some of yourself in there.” Not every older needs special assistance. Indeed, most get along just fine on their own and still work, recreate, love, and learn. Take the older actors who populate Nebraska. Angela McEwan, who plays Peg Nagy, the editor of the newspaper in Woody’s fictional hometown of Hawthorne, Neb., says she and her fellow actors of a certain age are busy professionals who haven’t lost a beat. In fact, she says, “We’re at the top of our game.” Casting director Jackson saw both Mary Louise Wilson and Stacy Keach on stage in New York during the casting process of Nebraska and

Octogenerian actress June Squibb, who played Jack Nicholson’s wife in Alexander Payne’s movie ‘About Schmidt,’ is cast in ‘Nebraska’ as Woody Grant’s wife. was inspired by their vitality. “Both were terrific. Mary Louise was doing what was essentially a two-person show. That is a tremendous amount of energy to put out each week, each night,” Jackson says. “Mr. Keach was on Broadway. Big theater. Long run. Lead role. Wow. Good on them. They’ve set the bar high, both for themselves and others. That’s what I want for myself as I age. More. Better.” In the film these actors vividly play characters their own age that still stir with passion and energy. McEwan’s character was once in love with Woody. Near the end of the film she gives a wistful look that suggests she still yearns for what might have been. Wilson plays a chattering busybody. Keach portrays an intimidating man set on getting what he feels he’s owed. Nebraska overturns aging myths by demonstrating that even well into their Golden Years people can remain not only physically active but also cognitively sharp and emotionally full. A positive spin on aging is encouraged by ENOA staffers who say it’s healthier to think in terms of assets or what can be done versus deficits or what can’t be done.

orte, best known for his long stint on Saturday Night Live, was moved by how engaged his veteran co-stars were. “It was just a delight and an honor to get to work with these people,” he says. “They’re just such amazing actors. I learned a lot from them because I think at times I could be over-thinking stuff and it just reminded me, Oh, don’t try to act too much, just be real. Like Bruce (Dern) would always say, ‘Just be truthful.’ That always sounded like acting mumbo jumbo to me coming in but for some reason the way he would explain it and describe it made sense. “There’s such an honesty that comes from these performances that it really taught me a lot to watch them,” he adds. Forte got close to Dern, who in real life is old enough to be Will’s grandfather, during the two months they worked on the Nebraska shoot. “It was very similar to our characters in the movie – we really got to spend a lot of time together and by the end of it we were incredibly close. It just feels like we’re family now. I learned so much from him. He was good to me. He was such a good teacher and friend. Nurturing, encouraging, (and) patient. I can’t say enough about him, and that’s just personally. “Professionally, to get to watch what that man does in this movie. I don’t know what I will do in the future but it will be one of the highlights of my life to get to see such a special performance from that close up. It’s something I will always remember.” Forte says he was already a fan of Dern’s work before the project. “I have watched so many Bruce Dern movies and he is the kind of person who I will rewind scenes to watch because he’s so interesting. The performance he gives in this movie is mesmerizing. We’ve done a lot of screenings of this movie and I’ve seen it quite a few times now and I’m just always seeing new things I never saw before. He continues to amaze me with different subtleties. It is such a privilege to get to be in this movie with him.”

D Casting director John Jackson selected Stacy Keach (above) for ‘Nebraska’ after seeing him on stage in New York.

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irecting Nebraska wasn’t the first time Payne’s worked with older actors. Jack Nicholson was in his late 60s when he played the title character in the filmmaker’s About Schmidt. June Squibb, the actress who appears as Dern’s wife in Nebraska, was in her 70s when she played Nicholson’s wife in About Schmidt. --Please turn to page 6.

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Director, co-star sing the praises of working with ‘old pros’ --Continued from page 5. Robert Forster was 70 when he essayed his small but telling part in The Descendants. Payne and Forte find it educational working with veterans. “I’ve adored working with the ‘old pros’ -- Nicholson, Dern, Keach, and Forster. They are the best actors to work with,” says Payne. “They know what they’re doing and they know how to study the director to see what movie he or she’s trying to make. Plus, I have much to learn from them about what it is to have a life in movies. After all, I don’t get to work with and learn from older directors, but I do get to have the (older) actors. “ It works the other way, too, as Dern enjoyed working with two talents much younger than him in Forte and Payne. “I grew to respect Will’s ability as an actor. I wasn’t sure who he was as an actor when we began,” says Dern. “He brought his ‘A’ game every day for 40 days (the number of shooting days). One thing I made him know early on is that you have to play every play just as hard as you play the play before and the play after. I told him, ‘It’s a job and you’re supported here. Alexander’s got a whole bunch of people on his set every day that have been working every day on every film he’s ever made.’ He’s got a family there.” Dern has worked with legendary directors including Alfred Hitchcock and Francis Coppola, and says, “They’re all wonderful, (and) they all have genius qualities about them. Obviously, Alexander is maybe at the head of the list now that I’ve worked with him. He gets it done and gets it done with a style and a grace. I very much liked the experience with Alexander. I mean, the guy has two fabulous qualities that make a great director – he’s a great coach and he knows when to up the vibe and down the vibe.” Stacy Keach, who’s also worked with many directing legends, says of Payne, “He’s like a great painter and a great conductor. He’s a great filmmaker. It’s a great honor for me to be a part of this movie.”

Dern (left) and Forte forged a strong relationship and a special bond during ‘Nebraska’s’ filming. Dern was impressed, too, by the work of the octogenarians and near octogenarians in making Nebraska. “Just everybody rose to the occasion. June Squibb is in her 80s. Mary Louise Wilson who plays my sister-in-law is in her 80s. Rance Howard is in his 80s. Angela McEwan, I don’t know how old she is, but she’s got to be up there. I’m 77.” Keach, age 72, calls it “wonderful” that he and his fellow older actors create such a strong ensemble together. “We still love what we’re doing. We’re trying to get good, still.” He says he and his colleagues not only remain capable but hungry, possessing “a love for our work and a need for our work, our growth, and development. Hopefully, we’ve learned something in our many years of experience.” Keach believes his old friend Bruce Dern delivers his finest, most in-depth performance in Nebraska. Dern, who won the Best Actor award at the Cannes Film Festival and is a favorite for an Oscar nomination, feels his own work in Nebraska is perhaps the best of his long, noteworthy career. “The first day of the movie Alexander said to me, ‘I’d like you to let Mr. Papamichael (the cinematographer) and I do our jobs,’ meaning don’t show me anything, let me find it with the camera. That’s what he did and that’s what you see. That doesn’t mean I wasn’t acting. It was as hard a role as I’ve had to take on

The stars of ‘Nebraska’ include (facing camera from left): Will Forte as David, Bruce Dern as Woody, and Stacy Keach as Woody’s arch nemesis.

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but I feel I owed it to the material and to my career for just once in my life to try and have as many consecutive moment-to-moment pure moments of behavior. “That’s what I began when I worked with Mr. (Elia) Kazan and Mr. (Lee) Strasberg in the Actors Studio. How much moment-to-moment real behavior can you have? And I think in Nebraska I’ve done far and away the most I’ve had in an entire film.”

ot to be overlooked in Nebraska, is June Squibb who nearly steals every scene she’s in as the loud, cranky, foul-mouthed wife of Woody. As Kate Grant she makes a formidable partner to Dern’s taciturn Woody. Forte says the pair play very different personalities than their own. “If you knew them as people you’d be blown away even more by their performances. June is such a sweet woman and then you see her as Bruce’s wife in the movie and she’s just ripping him apart. “And Bruce, so vibrant and talkative in real life, but then once those cameras turned on he was so believably gruff and a man of few words. It is such a testament to their acting that they can fully inhabit these complex characters.” Payne and casting director Jackson agree the older players assembled for Nebraska deliver indelible performances. The pair spent much time and took great care finding the right mix of faces to play the many older roles the story required. “Casting is the most important thing and the best thing I do as a director is cast,” Payne says. “You can’t mess up casting. You’ve got to get the right people in every part. The leads and the secondary, tertiary parts have to be exactly right. It’s creating a world.” He says Nebraska is as much “anthropological” as anything because he and Jackson found the faces and voices that most authentically represent the specific rural types being portrayed. “Whatever achievements this film Nebraska may or may not have, for me its greatest achievement is its most significant marriage of professional and nonprofessional actors. We spent over a year doing it so that they all seem like they’re in the

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same movie.” Many characters in Nebraska, including the older figures, are based on real-life counterparts screenwriter Bob Nelson extrapolated from childhood visits to northeast Nebraska where his parents were from and where extended family resided. He says the main character, Woody, is closely drawn from his own father. Forte says his actual parents are nothing like his movie parents in Nebraska, but adds his maternal grandfather did share in common with Woody an inability to articulate things. “He was a man of very few words, so I had the experience in dealing with a person like that. I loved him very much and he loved me, so it was never an issue like that. But I had just a taste of that frustration of being with somebody who wouldn’t always express themself so clearly. That frustration mixed with that love. You can be frustrated by somebody and still love them and treat them with respect.” Bruce Dern says one of the reasons Nebraska resonates so strongly with him is that it speaks to something in his own life. “One of the things in my life that’s bothered me is that when I had an opportunity to say things to people in my life before it was too late, before they were gone, I didn’t do it, and that’s on me. I thought that was stuff that was inherent in Woody. He was not a guy able to say the things he should have said and nobody in his family was able to say what they really felt to him. That struck a chord immediately. “If there’s a message in Nebraska, it’s if you have the opportunity to say the things you want to say, get them said, and if you don’t have the opportunity, make the opportunity, otherwise you’ll carry it around with you the rest of your life.” (Read more of Biga’s work at leoadambiga.word press.com.) (The photos used with this story were taken by Merie Wallace and are provided courtesy of the Paramount Pictures Corporation.)

The holidays are a good time to discuss care options for you, your loved ones By Jen Vogt

s you travel to visit your older loved ones this holiday season, you may notice some changes to their health, behavior, or ability to care for themselves. You may also realize the time has come to explore some options for senior living and care for your loved one. Where do you begin? There is so much information available it can be hard to determine which options might be best for you to explore further.

As always, talk to a physician about your loved one’s changing health conditions and their ability to live at home safely. It helps to understand the types of living environments and care options available. With this basic information, you may have a clearer idea of which directions to look when exploring the services available. If your older loved one’s able to safely stay in their home, but needs some extra assistance from time to time, consider these services: • The Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging offers a variety of programs and services designed to allow older adults to remain living in their own homes with independence and dignity for as long as possible. These programs include Meals on Wheels, personal care, and homemaker services. HorizonAD-2010:HorizonAD-08 • Respite care provides a

temporary break for caregivers by allowing their loved one to have a short-term stay in a care community that can meet their needs. Many assisted living and nursing homes offer respite care. While respite stays are typically between a week and a month long adult day programs offer options for shorter stays. If the time has come for your loved one to leave their home, consider these living options in a care community: • Independent living communities cater to independent individuals with few medical needs. Older adults live in private apartments and have many options for social outings and entertainment. • Assisted living communities are ideal for older men and women who are no longer able to live on their own, but who don’t need a nursing home. Individuals living in an assisted living facility can receive help with daily activities, meals, medications, or housekeeping. Nursing staff is available 24 hours a day for added safety. • Nursing homes are able to offer around-the-clock skilled nursing services for individuals who have higher 2/4/10 8:00 AM Page 1 care needs or complex

medical conditions. Many nursing homes also offer short-term stays for individuals needing rehabilitation services while recovering from an injury, illness, or surgery. • Memory support is for older adults suffering from Alzheimer’s or other types of dementia, Memory support services can provide a safe and secure environment while ensuring peace of mind for their caregivers. Memory support services can be offered in an assisted living or nursing home setting. Specially trained staff members are available 24 hours a day to care for these residents. With so many senior housing and care options available, it’s easy to become confused and overwhelmed by the different types of communities. As always, talk to a physician about your loved one’s changing health conditions and their ability to live at home safely. Then seek advice on the best options available for their individual needs. It’s important to understand the differences between each of these types of services so you can make the decision that’s best for your family. (Vogt is with Midwest Geriatrics, Inc. in Omaha)

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Study: Caregivers may live longer

aregiving may actually help you live longer. That’s the surprising finding of a new Johns Hopkins University study published in the latest Journal of Epidemiology which found that family caregivers had an 18 percent reduced rate of death compared with noncaregivers. Researchers concluded: “If highly stressful situations can be avoided or managed effectively, caregiving may actually offer some health benefits.” Life coach and caregiver advocate Yosaif August says we normally associate caregiving with burnout from juggling the demands of work and family along with caring for a loved one. This happens over and over because caregivers somehow manage to rise to the occasion, often showing heroic capacities for resilience, patience, and selfsacrifice as well. Despite their heroic efforts, caregivers still need a lot of support, and too often refuse to reach out for it, or when they do, they don’t know where to find it. August has written a critically acclaimed new book that offers help for caregivers, Coaching for Caregivers: How to Reach Out Before You Burn Out.

ugust’s message is this: Nobody can do this alone. There’s plenty of love and support available. But caregivers need to get past their reluctance to reach out for help. August shares five coaching tips to help resilient caregivers:

“If highly stressful situations can be avoided or managed effectively, caregiving may actually offer some health benefits.” • How to transform your resistance to reaching out and how to feel positive about it. • How to use “care sites,” – free online forums for caregivers, friends, and family – and their many benefits. • Where to find the best resources for caregivers. • Thirteen of the smartest and dumbest things to do when reaching out for help. • How to ask for help and support without losing the family’s privacy.

Read it & eat By Lois Friedman readitandeat@yahoo.com

Holiday treats you’ll love Check out these cookbooks for visions of sugarplums and other delicious treats. Great holiday gift ideas, too! Robert Rose: Complete Cake Mix Magic By Jill Snider ($24.95) More than 300 Duncan Hines recipes. Best Babycakes By K. Moore & R. Wyss ($24.95) Adorable cake pop recipes to make in the Cake Pop Maker with creative decorating illustrations and tips. Gluten-Free Baking for the Holidays By Jeanne Sauvage (Chronicle Books, $24.95) Sixty homemade treats to indulge in for the holidays. Cake Pops Holidays By Bakerella (Chronicle Books, $14.95) More than 20 projects from this popular blogger. Frosty Friends Cake Pops Kit By Bakerella (Chronicle Books, $10.95) Twenty-four tags, bags, and sticks...adorable. Bake It In A Cupcake By Megan Seling (Andrews McMeel, $24.99) This blogger shares 50 sweet and savory recipes with a surprise inside with step-by-step details. Modern Art Desserts By Caitlin Freeman (10 Speed, $25) This San Francisco pastry chef captures 27 famous artists creations in a delicious, incredible dessert recipe project. Cupcakes By Better Homes & Gardens Editors (Wiley, $19.99) More than 150 creative cupcakes. Dolci By Francine Segan (Stewart Tabori & Chang, $35) Enjoy an Italian sweet bite-by-bite tour. Try this quintessential Italian Christmas.

“Instant” Rum Babà Panettone 3 cups sugar ¼ to ½ cup (2 to 4 fluid ounces) dark rum 8 slices or 8 small individual sized panettone Confectioners’ sugar Fresh or frozen berries, optional In a medium saucepan, combine the sugar and 1½ cups (12 fluid ounces) water and bring to a boil. Lower the heat and simmer until thickened, about 15 minutes. Remove from the heat. Stir in the rum and taste. Let cool to room temperature. Arrange the panettone on a serving platter. An hour before serving, slowly pour the rum syrup over the panettone so that all the liquid is absorbed. Serve topped with confectioners’ sugar and accompanied by berries, if you like.

Mentally challenging puzzle book

dwin F. Meyer and Joseph R. Luchsinger have written a new book that’s being prescribed by some doctors for patients susceptible to Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia. The result of 40 years of collecting simply stated yet mentally challenging puzzles, The Gedanken Institute Book of Puzzles offers

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a fun and stimulating approach to developing mental strength and stamina. This collection of hundreds of puzzles varies in difficulty while covering a wide range of topics and types including logic problems, physics problems, acronyms, and more. The Gedanken Institute Book of Puzzles is available for $19.95 from booksellers.

AARP offering driving courses in December AARP is offering a four-hour driving safety class designed to boost driver safety awareness while improving driving skills. No tests or examinations are involved, course completion certificates are provided, and auto insurance discounts may apply. The fee is $12 for AARP members and $14 for non-AARP members. Here’s this month’s schedule: Saturday, December 14 1 to 5 p.m. AARP Information Center 1941 S. 42nd St. Call 402-398-9568 to register

AARP is also offering a new four-hour, research-based Smart Driver Course for older adults. By completing the course, participants will: • Learn research-based driving safety strategies that can reduce the likelihood of having an accident. • Understand the links between the driver, the vehicle, and the road environment, and how this awareness encourages safer driving. • Learn how aging, medications, alcohol, and health-related issues affect driving ability and ways to allow for these changes. • Increase confidence. • Know how to share the road safely with other drivers. • Learn the newest safety and advance features in vehicles. The fee is $15 for AARP members and $20 for non-AARP members. No tests or examinations are involved, course completion certificates are provided, and auto insurance discounts may apply. Here’s this month’s schedule:

Someday this button might save your life. For now, it sets you free. With Lifeline by Immanuel, you can enjoy an independent lifestyle in your own home — knowing that you can call for help if you ever need it. One push of your Lifeline button connects you to someone with access to your medical history, someone who can evaluate your situation and immediately send help. To learn more about the security and peace of mind provided by Lifeline, call (402) 829-3277 or toll-free at (800) 676-9449. Free activation this month.

www.immanuellifeline.com

Fontenelle Tours

Friday, December 6 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Metropolitan Community College • 204th Street and West Dodge Road Class ID #: AUAV-004N-72 Call 402-457-5231 to register

Quoted prices are per person, double occupancy. For more information about our tours, please call Ward or Kathy Kinney at Fontenelle Tours at the number listed above.

Friday, December 13 Noon to 4 p.m. Metropolitan Community College 27th & Q streets Class ID #: AUAV-004N-71 Call 402-457-5231 to register

Kansas City Christmas. December 11 - 12. $299. Enjoy a special holiday luncheon at the Webster House, New Theater Restaurant buffet dinner, and an evening performance of “Never Too Late” starring George Wendt from “Cheers,” “Christmas in Song” at the Quality Hill Playhouse, Toy & Miniature Museum, tour of Strawberry Hill Povitica Bakery, shopping at Crown Center and Zona Rosa, and lodging at the Drury.

Tips for keeping winter ice at bay

• Salt has its limits. Rock salt is an effective deicer and can be very helpful when deicing icy areas of your property. But remember it can lose effectiveness as temperatures go down, especially when the temperature is below 20 degrees. The best indicator of salt’s performance related to temperature is to determine the temperature of the pavement. • Use the proper material. While salt is a great first defense as a deicer, it may lose its effectiveness at temperatures below 20 degrees. If the temperatures are lower than 20 degrees, consider using other products that melt ice at lower temperatures. Good alternatives to salt include calcium chloride, magnesium chloride, or other blended materials. Be sure the product contains more than trace elements of any given product. • Spread deicer evenly. When applying a deicer, be sure to spread it evenly across the surface. Avoid placing too much product in one spot. Rather, spread a base amount across the icy area and allow the product

2013 - 2014

Christmas at the Lofte. December 8. $99. Enjoy another Sunday afternoon performance of “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever” followed by dinner at Parker’s Smokehouse after the play.

“Hello Dolly” Featuring Sally Struthers. January 26, 2014. $129. ($119 before 11/26/13.) Join us for this Sunday evening performance, the only Sioux City performance of “Hello Dolly” starring Sally Struthers from “All in the Family.”

Ice can be more dangerous than snow inter weather driving and walking can often be hazardous. But ice can be even more dangerous than snow because it’s often hard to detect and offers no traction. Ice also creates weight on trees and power lines, wrecking havoc on our communities during winter’s inclement weather. The Snow & Ice Management Association (SIMA), the national nonprofit organization representing the snow removal industry, is suggesting five tips for keeping ice at bay on your driveway, reducing the chances of a mishap on your property. “The overall goal of deicing is to break or prevent the bond between ice/snow and any surface,” said Martin B. Tirado, CAE, Executive Director, SIMA. “Generally, salt (sodium chloride) is the most cost effective method of deicing and the most common form of salt used in the U.S. is rock salt.” Here are five tips to consider when deicing your treacherous icy areas on your property:

Omaha/Council Bluffs: 712-366-9596

time to work. Be careful not to spread or throw the material past the surface you are trying to deice. Many deicing materials can have adverse affects on trees, plants and grass, especially if they have repeated exposure. There are a few products that are used as deicers, like urea, that actually act like fertilizers, but they aren’t as effective or common. • Watch your back. Deicing materials can be heavy, so be careful about how much you try to carry at one time, especially when walking on ice and snow. Use a small container to carry the rock salt or invest in a quality spreader to ensure the salt is applied evenly and effectively. • Store carefully. Since moisture can cause deicers to lose effectiveness and clump or freeze, be sure to store them in airtight containers. The best place to store deicers may be in your garage, on a high shelf out of reach of young children and pets. Following these tips will help ensure that you survive and thrive through the winter.

December 2013

Branson’s “Brother South” in Sioux City. March 31, 2014. $99. ($89 before 1/31/14.) Spend a fun afternoon at the Orpheum reminiscing, singing, and swaying to rock and roll, honky tonk, and classic country performed by “Brother South” from Branson. “Harvey” at the New Theater. April 2, 2014. $139. ($129 before 2/2/14.) Take a Wednesday trip to Kansas City and enjoy lunch and “Harvey” starring Judge Reinhold from “Fast Times at Ridgemont High” and “Beverly Hills Cop.” West Side Story. May 6, 2014. $129. ($119 before 3/6/14.) Enjoy an exciting Tuesday evening at the only Broadway performance of this incredible musical at Sioux City’s Orpheum Theater. “Miracle on South Division Street” at the New Theater. May 21, 2014. $139. ($129 before 3/21/14.) Take a Wednesday trip to Kansas City to see Connie Stevens perform with her real life daughter while enjoying an awesome lunch! Daniel O’Donnell in Sioux City. June 1, 2014. $TBD. See Daniel at the Orpheum in Sioux City. Details to follow. “Rat Pack Show” at the new Kauffman Center. June 1, 2014. $169. Here’s your chance to check out the new Performing Arts Center in Kansas City with great seats for this special Sunday performance. Because of ticket deadlines, please reserve by 12/15/13. Daniel O’Donnell in Des Moines. June 5, 2014. $TBD. See Daniel in Des Moines. Details to follow. “Smokey Joe’s Cafe” at the New Theater. June 21, 2014. $139. ($129 before 4/21/14.) Come along on a Saturday trip to Kansas City and enjoy a rock ‘n’ roll musical revue, as well as a wonderful lunch buffet at the New Theater. Featured songs include: On Broadway, Hound Dog, Jailhouse Rock, Stand By Me, Spanish Harlem, Love Potion #9, Young Blood, Yakety Yak, I’m a Woman, and Kansas City. Arrow Rock, Blackwater, & the Clydesdales. August 9 - 11, 2014. $TBD. Shop and explore in a Missouri village that is a National Historic Landmark. Attend the historic theater and tour the ranch where the Budweiser Clydesdales are raised. Nebraska Junk Jaunt…with a Twist. September 26 – 27, 2014. $TBD. Join us for this garage sale extravaganza, but with a new route and a new motel. This is truly a fun adventure, whatever you’re hunting for! Branson Christmas with Daniel O’Donnell. November 10 – 13, 2014. $TBD. Show line-up to follow at a later time.

In Partnership with Collette Vacations New York City. May 15 - 19, 2014. Five Days. Two Broadway Shows, Greenwich Village, Wall Street, Ground Zero, Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York Harbor Cruise, Ellis Island. Stay at the Sheraton Hotel and Towers in the heart of New York six blocks from Central Park! Northern National Parks. July 15 - 22, 2014. Eight Days. Salt Lake City, Jackson Hole, Yellowstone National Park, Old Faithful, Grand Teton National Park, Park City. Four-might stay at the Snow King Lodge in Jackson, Wy. Reflections of Italy. Sept 10 - 19, 2014. 10 Days. Rome, Coliseum, Assisi, Perugia, Siena, Florence, Chianti Winery, Venice, Murano Island, Como, Lugano, Switzerland. Spectacular South Africa. Nov 10 - 22, 2014. 13 Days. Enjoy springtime in South Africa including Johannesburg, Soweto, Kruger National Park, a Safari Game Drive, a lagoon cruise in the Knysna Featherbed National Reserve, an Ostrich Farm Visit, Cape Winelands, Cape Town, Table Mountain, traditional African dining, and more. A trip of a lifetime!

Laughlin Laughlin in November (by Air). November 29 – December 2. $329. Includes nonstop, round-trip airfare to Laughlin, Nevada, three nights lodging at the Riverside Resort and Casino on the banks of the Colorado River, and shuttle transportation to and from the airport. During this trip Larry Gatlin and the Gatlin Brothers will entertain at the Riverside Resort and Smokey Robinson will perform at the Edgewater Resort. Watch New Horizons and our website www.fontenelletours.com for our trip schedule. Our new address is: 2008 W. Broadway #329, Council Bluffs, Iowa 51501

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WhyArts? offers sculpture class at Corrigan Senior Center

Art Shuffty was the only male student in the November sculpture class.

Joyce Horvath said she took the class at the Corrigan Senior Center to have fun.

oyce Horvath dipped her fingers into a glass of water, then picked up a hunk of clay and began molding it into the shape of a pumpkin. Throughout the room at the Corrigan Senior Center – 3819 X St. – Momo Serra gave instructions to the seven women and one man who were taking the sculpture class. Serra is an instructor with WhyArts?, an Omahaarea based program whose mission is to provide arts experiences to persons of all ages, abilities, and cultures to enhance their quality of life. A Barcelona, Spain native, Serra began the 90-minute class by having the students discuss what Thanksgiving meant to them. Horvath, Ivy Forrest, Art Shuffty, Kathleen Carlson, Mary Steele, Sarah Andrade, Rita Murphy, and Eloise Hall talked about how much they enjoyed getting together with their families each year, eating “too much,” and giving thanks for everything they had in life. The next step was for each “artist” to draw a Thanksgiving picture using pens, pencils, and crayons. Once the drawings were complete, each student was given a hunk of clay and asked to transform the picture they had drawn into a piece of sculpture, an art medium few had ever tackled. “For some, this is a big challenge, but they enjoy it,” Serra said. Throughout the creative process, Momo moved from one smiling student to another, offering tips and encouragement. “Nothing is wrong, everything is OK,” she said. After cleaning up their workspaces and washing their hands, the artists left their sculptures behind to dry. The following Wednesday, they returned to paint and decorate their pumpkins, turkeys, etc. To learn more about WhyArts?, please call 402-333-4450. For more information on Corrigan Senior Center activities, please turn to page 2.

Sarah Andrade showed off her Thanksgiving turkey made from clay.

Mary Steele took a hunk of clay and molded it into a tree.

Your home.Your care.Your pace.

Holiday lights bus tour scheduled for Dec. 10 Touching Hearts at Home and Bloomfield Forum are partnering again this year to provide a free holiday lights bus tour of the Omaha area for older adults.

Your home is best and Immanuel Pathways can help you continue living there for as long as possible. Our program provides a comprehensive system of health care. The model of service is PACE: Program of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly. Our program includes primary, acute and long-term health care as well as day therapeutic and recreational services and transportation. Services are provided in the home, in the community and at our PACE Center. For complete program details and benefits, please call 402-991-0330.

5755 Sorensen Parkway | Omaha, NE 68152 | www.immanuelpathways.org PACE participants may be fully and personally liable for the costs of unauthorized or out-of-PACE program services. Emergency services are covered. Participants may disenroll at any time.

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On Tuesday, Dec. 10, a bus will leave Bloomfield Forum – 9804 Nicholas St. – at 6 and 7:30 p.m. Refreshments at Bloomfield Forum will precede the tour. In case of snow on Dec. 10, the activities will be rescheduled for Tuesday, Dec. 17. For reservations or more information, please call 402934-3303.

December 2013 events calendar 1 Christmas at Boys Town Historic Creche Displays Through January 11 FREE 402-498-1141 Christmas at Boys Town Tree lighting 7:45 p.m. 402-498-1141

3 The Madrigal Christmasse Feaste Warming hour @ 6 p.m. Dinner and show @ 7 p.m. Regency Marriot Ballroom $52 402-556-1400 6 Christmas as the Cathedral Also December 6 St. Cecilia’s Cathedral Friday @ 8 p.m. Sunday @ 2 p.m. $18 and $30 402-398-1766 Narnia Through December 29 The Rose Theater Friday @ 7 p.m. Saturday & Sunday @ 2 p.m. December 26 @ 7 p.m. $20 and $25 402-345-4849 Yesterday and Today Through December 29 Omaha Community Playhouse Thursday – Saturday @ 7:30 p.m. Sunday @ 2 p.m. 402-553-0800 7 An Evening with the Priests Holland Performing Arts Center 8 p.m. 402-345-0606

Luncheon honors RSVP volunteers

7 Holiday Happenings Saturdays through December 21 Henry Doorly Zoo 10:45 a.m. 402-733-8401 9 Irish Christmas at Father Flanagan’s Historic Home Boys Town Through December 16 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. FREE 402-498-1141 19 Supper with Saints at Henry Doorly Zoo Through December 22 6 to 8 p.m. $15 and $20 402-738-209227 27 Penguins and Pancakes Through December 29 Henry Doorly Zoo 8:30 to 10 a.m. $12 and $15 402-738-2038

RSVP Coordinator Pat Tanner (back row, middle) and RSVP Advisory Council members Tom Lynch (back row, left) and Theresa Olsen (back row, right) with four of the five RSVP volunteers who served more than 1,000 hours during the last year. Front row, from left: Leroy Lidberg, Mavis Lidberg, Neil Rosenbaum, and Charly Smith.

delicious meal, musical entertainment by Joe Taylor, and the honoring of more than 200 volunteers in Dodge and Washington counties were among the highlights at the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program’s recognition luncheon. The annual event was held last month at the Fremont Senior Center. Among those honored were four men and one woman who volunteered more than 1,000 hours with RSVP during the last year:

Mavis Lidberg, 3,006 hours; Leroy Lidberg, 2,889 hours; Neil Rosenbaum, 1,538.75 hours; Charly Smith, 1,528 hours; and Bill Michaud, 1,142 hours. RSVP provides volunteer opportunities for men and women age 55 and older in Douglas, Sarpy, Dodge, Cass, and Washington counties. For more information, please see page 15 or call 402-444-6536, ext. 224 in Douglas, Sarpy, and Cass counties or 402-721-7780 in Dodge and Washington counties.

31 New Year’s Eve at Henry Doorly Zoo 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Zoo admission 402-733-8401 The Holiday Lights Festival New Year’s Fireworks Spectacular Gene Leahy Mall

• Quality living at an affordable price • Licensed nurse and certified staff on duty 24 hours a day • Located in scenic downtown Omaha

• Medication administration and daily living assistance • 10 spacious floor plans with large closets • Numerous educational, social, spiritual and wellness programs

Contact Saint Joseph Tower Assisted Living Community to learn more.

www.StJosephTower.com 2205 S. 10th St.

December 2013

Omaha, NE 68108

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(402) 952-5000

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Better Business Bureau alert

he local office of the Better Business Bureau (BBB) is issuing an alert regarding a variety of telephone scams. An Omaha man recently told the BBB that individuals claiming to be with the State Sheriff’s office and the Federal Crime Enforcement Network’s legal department used coercion and fear tactics to steal $1,400 from him. The consumer received a voice message from a woman saying there was a warrant out for his arrest. He was instructed to contact Officer Richard Henderson. The consumer called right away.

that thieves are utilizing to steal millions of dollars from consumers across the country,” said Jim Hegarty, BBB’s local president and CEO. “Most of these operations are offshore and beyond the reach of U.S. law enforcement. Once a victim relays the access codes to the thieves, the money is gone and rarely recovered. “We are seeing a significant surge in aggressive calls like this,” Hegarty continued. “Consumers report receiving calls from scammers claiming to be debt collectors who threaten consumers with potential arrest. Sometimes they say they’re representatives of a utility company and threaten to shut off their electricity or water if they don’t immediately pay with a Green Dot card.”

H Officer Henderson told the consumer a company from whom he’d received a loan had filed charges against him. The man was told if he didn’t pay the $500 fine within 12 hours, an investigator would arrest him. The consumer was instructed to purchase a Green Dot card and call Henderson with the card’s number. The consumer complied. The next week the consumer received another call from Henderson asking for $500 more because there was also a federal lawsuit against him. The consumer said he only had $400, so he purchased another Green Dot card and provided the number to the caller. The consumer received a third call again asking for another $500. He ignored this message because he had no money. Later a different person left a threatening message warning him if he didn’t call by 5 p.m. with the numbers on the $500 Green Dot card, they’d be sending the local sheriff to arrest him. This caller “spoofed” the phone number to make it look like the call came from 911 so the consumer thought the caller was legitimate. In fear, he gave the access code on the card. After doing this, he heard the original caller’s voice in the background, became suspicious, and notified the police who told him he’d been scammed. “This case is typical of phone schemes

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egarty encouraged consumers to educate family members, friends, and neighbors about these scams. “If anyone calls and demands you to send cash by wire transfer or a Green Dot card, hang up the phone and contact the BBB immediately. It’s very likely they’re trying to swindle you.” The BBB offers these tips to anyone contacted by a stranger demanding money: • If the caller claims to represent a government agency, a debt collector, a utility company, or is claiming you’ve won a prize, get the person’s name and affiliation and tell them you’ll call back. Look up the phone number for the entity they claim to represent. The real agency will be able to tell you if the call is legitimate. Don’t rely on phone numbers the callers provide and don’t trust caller ID which criminals can easily manipulate. • Don’t give a caller any personal information including banking or Social Security numbers. • If the call is from a debt collector, ask the caller to provide proof of the debt by mail. If the caller refuses, hang up. • Never transfer money to a stranger by wire transfers such as Western Union or MoneyGram or by using preloaded money cards such as Green Dot. Such payments can be virtually impossible to trace. Only send money to people you know and for reasons you’re sure are legitimate. If you’re asked to keep the transfer a secret for any reason, don’t send the funds. • If a caller threatens you in any way, contact the police. • If you’re unsure about whether a call is legitimate, contact the BBB at 800-6496814, the police, or the Nebraska Attorney General’s office. (The BBB provided this information.)

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December 2013

Dora Bingel Senior Center You’re invited to visit the Dora Bingel Senior Center, 923 N. 38th St., this month for the following: • Dec. 2, 9, 16, & 23: Al-Anon meeting @ 7 p.m. • Dec. 3, 10, & 17: Grief Support Group @ 10 a.m. • Dec. 4, 6, 11, 13, 18, & 20: Ceramics @ 9 a.m. • Dec. 4: Holy Communion. • Dec.18: Physha from the Merrymakers @ 11:30 a.m. Lunch is $3. • Dec. 18: Birthday party luncheon @ noon. Eat free if you have a December birthday. • Dec. 20: Hard of Hearing Support Group @ 10:30 a.m. The center will be closed Dec. 23 through Jan. 2. A nutritious lunch is served on Tuesday and Friday. A fancier lunch is offered on Wednesday. A $1 donation is suggested for the meals, other than $3 for Regeneration. Round-trip transportation is available for $3. Reservations are required 24 hours in advance for all meals. Other activities include a foot care clinic the third Wednesday of the month from 9 a.m. to noon. The cost is $10. Tuesdays: free matinee @ 12:30 p.m. and quilting group @ 1 p.m. Wednesday: Devotions @ 10:30 a.m., Tai Chi @ 11:15 a.m., Bingo @ 1 p.m., and Bible study @ 1 p.m. Friday: Devotions @ 9:30 a.m. and Bingo @ 1 p.m. For more information, please call 402-898-5854.

Millard Senior Center You’re invited to visit the Millard Senior Center at Montclair, 2304 S. 135th Ave., for the following: • Friday, December 20: Christmas party. Have your picture taken with Santa who arrives @ 10 a.m. The Christmas carol sing-a-long begins @ 11 a.m. The Millard Senior Center is open weekdays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Lunch is served at 11:30. A $3 donation (free on your birthday) is suggested for the meal. Reservations are due by noon the business day prior to the lunch you wish to enjoy. Center activities include a walking club (join and get a free t-shirt), Tai Chi class (Mondays and Fridays from 10 to 10:45 a.m. for a $1 suggested donation), chair volleyball (Tuesdays and Thursdays @ 10 a.m.), quilting (Thursdays @ 9 a.m.), card games, and Bingo (Tuesdays and Fridays @ noon). On Jan. 8 @ 9 a.m., we’ll resume making dresses for the little girls in Africa. That day, we’ll also make snowflakes as part of the 9 a.m. and 12 p.m. basket weaving classes. For meal reservations and more information, please call Susan at 402-546-1270. Heartland Family Service Senior Center You’re invited to visit the Heartland Family Service Senior Center, 2101 S. 42nd St. for the following: • Friday, Dec. 6: Trip to the new outlet mall in Gretna. We’ll leave the senior center @ 10 a.m. and return @ 2 p.m. Bus fare is $5. • Wednesday, Dec. 11: Birthday celebration featuring music by Michael Lyon from the Merrymakers. • Sunday, Dec. 15: Decorate the center with the Student League from 3 to 5 p.m. • Tuesday, Dec. 17: Red Hats meet at Gorat’s. Bring a new $6 to $8 Christmas gift. • Thursday, Dec. 19: Receive a gift from and have your picture taken with Santa who will leave @ 11 a.m. • Monday, Dec. 30: Ring out 2013 and bring in 2014. The Heartland Family Service Senior Center is open weekdays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Lunch is normally served at noon. A $3 donation is suggested for the meal. Reservations are due by noon the business day prior to the lunch you wish to attend. Transportation is available within specific boundaries for 50 cents each way. Regular activities include Tai Chi classes on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday @ 10:15 a.m., crafts with Patty on Tuesday, and a nurse visit by Margo Mondays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Call 402-553-5300 for an appointment. For meal reservations or more information, please call Karen at 402-552-7480 or the front desk at 402-553-5300.

Tips for promoting healthy skin

ost people have a vague idea of what’s good and what’s bad for their skin, but since they don’t understand the biology involved, they either do nothing or the wrong things to promote healthy skin, says skin-care expert Ron Cummings. “How many times do we find mixed reports on health? Are eggs good or bad for you? Too much sun is bad, but so is too little. There’s so much information overload, many people shrug off what they don’t fully comprehend,” says Cummings, founder and CEO of AminoGenesis Skin Care. In addition to environmental factors such as smoke and excessive sun exposure, there are two primary biological processes that age our skin: oxidization and glycation, Cummings says. Despite antioxidants, which combats oxidation, being all the rage in recent years, few people are aware of what occurs through glycation.” “Glycation happens when a sugar molecule bonds with a protein. The protein then becomes misshapen. Collagen, which makes our skin look smooth and plump, is a protein that’s particularly vulnerable. Cell damage

through glycation results in wrinkles, lines, and discoloration,” he says. To maintain youth – and even reverse some of that damage – Cummings offers these tips: • Monitor your alcohol intake. Alcohol causes skin to get puffy and flush with dilated blood vessels. Over time, even moderate intake can cause permanent spider veins on one’s face, chest, abdomen, arms, and hands. Damaged vessels leak, which causes discoloration and puffiness. Alcohol worsens common skin diseases such as psoriasis and rosacea; causes dehydration, which makes skin sag; causes a deficiency in nutrients, and impairs immune systems. The moderate intake of red wine, however, may help skin because red grapes are filled with antioxidants. • Try to cut out most sugar. Americans average 150 pounds of sugar intake each year, according to the American Heart Association, and most eat and drink two to four times the amount they should. Sugar is a ubiquitous ingredient in the American diet and can be found in drinks and condiments. Sugar molecules – especially refined sugar, which is pure sucrose -- fuels glycation. In a European study, volunteers were asked to view photos of 602 people; those with the highest sugar intake were deemed to look the oldest. A high-sugar diet is also linked to diabetes. • Keep an eye out for anti-glycation products. Most topical products maintain the skin’s existing moisture by acting as a barrier. Other products utilize antioxidants to stabilize oxygen molecules that have lost electrons and cause damage to cell membranes when they take electrons from stable molecules. Products with certain amino acids address glycation by breaking the sugar molecule’s bond with collagen, allowing the protein to return to its original shape.

A Safe, Cozy, Homelike Environment

for those affected by Alzheimer’s & Dementia

Do you have diabetes and Medicare? If so, your benefits include two hours of diabetes education per calendar year! Please join us on

Monday, December 16 1 to 3 p.m. at

2910 South 84th Street • Omaha, NE 68124 www.diabetes-education.com For a two-hour class specifically for people with Medicare and who are living with diabetes. Topics: Diet, exercise, monitoring, and medicines. Please RSVP to 402-399-0777, ext. 230

SEATING IS LIMITED!

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We want to hear from

you!

• Do you have questions about the Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging, its programs or services? • Do you have a comment about the agency and how it serves older adults in Douglas, Sarpy, Dodge, Cass, and Washington counties? • Maybe you have a story idea for the New Horizons?

Send your questions,comments, story ideas, etc. to

DHHS.ENOA@nebraska.gov We appreciate your interest in ENOA and the New Horizons.

Adult Day Care &Short Term Stays We offer peace of mind for caregivers that need a break to run errands, go shopping, or maybe take a vacation.

WHITMORE LAW OFFICE Wills • Trusts • Probate

Ask A Lawyer:

• Quality staff specializing in Alzheimer’s & dementia care

Q — Should I put my child’s name on my home title? A — Let’s look at the pros and cons of this. Pro — It will avoid the need for probate on your home. Con — You would make a gift of a share of the property, and your child would become an owner (joint tenancy). Your child and his/her spouse would have to sign if you ever wished to borrow against your home or sell it. If you ever need Medicaid, you would be subject to a penalty period. Your child would also have to pay capital gain tax on the difference between your original cost and the value at the time of your death.

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December 2013

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ENOA menu for December 2013 Monday, Dec. 2 Baked Turkey Ham Tuesday, Dec. 3 Honey Mustard Chicken Wednesday, Dec. 4 Breaded Meatballs Thursday, Dec. 5 Crunchy Pollock Friday, Dec. 6 Cheeseburger Monday, Dec. 9 Meatball Stroganoff Tuesday, Dec. 10 Apple Glazed Pork Patty Wednesday, Dec. 11 Turkey Breast w/Gravy Thursday, Dec. 12 Swiss Steak w/Gravy

Joint effort with Swedish researchers

Ball State study: Persons who exercise up to age 80 have same aerobic capacity as persons half their age

Tuesday, Dec. 17 Salisbury Steak

eople who exercise on a regular basis up to the age of 80 have the same aerobic capacity as someone half their age, says a new study from Ball State University in Muncie, Ind. New Records in Aerobic Power Among Octogenarian Lifelong Endurance Athletes, a Ball State research project conducted in collaboration with several Swedish researchers, found the long-time athletes in the study are enjoying vibrant and healthy lives. The study was recently published in the Journal of Applied Physiology.

3,700 more steps per day than the nonexercisers. Members of the two study groups rode exercise bikes as researchers measured oxygen uptake. When the participants reached total exhaustion, they had reached maximum oxygen uptake (also known as VO2 max). Skeletal muscle biopsies were then taken to measure the capacity of their mitochondria, the aerobic base of their muscle, and other cells. The study also found the endurance athletes established new upper limits for aerobic power in men 80 to 91 years old, including a maximum oxygen uptake that was nearly twice that of untrained men their age. “To our knowledge, the VO2 max of the lifelong endurance athletes was the highest recorded in humans in this age group, and comparable to non-endurance-trained men 40 years younger,” Trappe said. “We also analyzed the aerobic capacity of their muscles by examining biopsies taken from thigh muscles, and found it was about double that of typical men. “In this case, 80 is the new 40,” said the “In fact, the oldest gentleman was 91 study’s lead author Scott Trappe, director years old, but his aerobic capacity resemof Ball State’s Human Performance Labobles that of a man 50 years younger. It was ratory (HPL). “These athletes are not who absolutely astounding.” we think of when we consider 80-year-olds A person’s VO2 max is a proving to be because they are in fantastic shape. They a better predictor of mortality than many are simply incredible, happy people who better-known cardiovascular risk factors, enjoy life and are living it to the fullest. Trappe said. Based upon the VO2max They are still actively engaged in competifindings, the lifelong exercisers have a 50 tive events.” percent lower all-cause mortality risk compared to the untrained men. esearchers examined nine enTrappe said the study fills in an important durance athletes from northern knowledge gap for aerobic capacity, given Sweden and compared them to that individuals living beyond age 80 are a group of healthy men from the fastest expanding age demographic in Indiana in the same age group our society who only performed the activities of daily “Since we are living longer, our research living with no history of structured exercise. indicates lifelong exercise enhances physiThe endurance athletes were crosscal capacity, has powerful anti-aging efcountry skiers, including a former Olympic fects, and emphasizes that exercise is medichampion and several national and regional cine, Trappe said. “If we can get people champions with a history of aerobic exerto embrace some sort of regular exercise cise and participation in endurance events routine, we can improve their lives.” throughout their lives. The athletes exer(Ball State University provided this inforcised four to six times a week, averaging mation.)

Wednesday, Dec. 18 Roast Beef Thursday, Dec. 19 Baked Chicken Breast w/Gravy Friday, Dec. 20 Spaghetti Casserole Monday, Dec. 23 Italian Style Pork Patty Tuesday, Dec. 24 Sausage w/Sauerkraut Wednesday, Dec. 25 CLOSED FOR CHRISTMAS Thursday, Dec. 26 Beef Stew

Friday, Dec. 27 Western Baked Beef

Friday, Dec. 13 Turkey Fritter w/Gravy

Monday, Dec. 30 Ham & Potato Casserole

Monday, Dec. 16 BBQ Rib Patty

Tuesday, Dec. 31 Meatloaf

Holiday caroling celebration is scheduled for Sunday, Dec. 15 You’re encouraged to attend the 39th annual Omaha Holiday Caroling celebration on Sunday, Dec. 15. Sponsored by Holiday Caroling Festivities, the fun will begin at 2 p.m. at the Nebraska Nursing & Rehabilitation Center, 7410 Mercy Rd. The event is designed to provide a special gift of love, time, emotional and healing support to older adults, their caregivers, and volunteers during the holiday season. Among those expected to attend are Nebraska First Lady Sally Ganem, Omaha City Councilman Franklin Thompson, Nebraska Board of Regents member Hal Daub, and radio talk show host Tom Becka. Holiday Caroling Festivities was founded by Vincent J. Leinen who was motivated in part by his father’s 20-year battle with Parkinson’s disease. The Holiday Caroling Festivities are open to singers and musicians of all talents and ages. For more information, please log on the Internet to http:// www.holidaymusicmakingadifference.com. Or call 1-818342-9336.

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December 2013

Christmas Day dinner at St. Margaret Mary’s

maha-area residents age 65 and older who otherwise will be alone on Christmas Day are invited to attend a holiday dinner and celebration at St. Margaret Mary’s Catholic Church, 6116 Dodge St. at 1:30 p.m. The event is sponsored by The Wonderful Elderly Friends and the St. Margaret Mary’s parishioners. The program can also provide a home-delivered meal for older adults in the Omaha area who will be homebound on Christmas Day. For reservations and to arrange for round-trip transportation or meal delivery, please call 402-558-2255 by Monday, Dec. 16.

Caseload may reach 30 million by 2020

Mayo Clinic study: More people having cataract surgery at younger ages, having both eyes repaired within months

s baby boomers enter their retirement years, health care costs for complex and debilitating conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease are expected to soar. Not drawing as much attention is the likelihood of similarly rising expenses for common age-related medical procedures. A Mayo Clinic study looked at one of those – cataract surgery – and found more people are getting the vision-improving procedure, seeking it at younger ages, and having both eyes repaired within a few months, rather than only treating one eye. This demand shows no sign of leveling off, raising the need to manage costs and ensure access to appropriate cataract treatment, the researchers say. Cataract surgery rates are rising in all age groups between age 50 and 90, but the greatest increase is in the 70 and 80-yearolds. Part of that is because our older population, or the aging baby boomers, are working longer, they want to be more active, (and) they have more demands on their vision,” says senior author Jay Erie, M.D., a Mayo Clinic ophthalmologist. “That’s why they’re looking for surgery sooner -- so that they can remain independent, remain active, (and) continue to work.” Cataracts can blur vision and worsen glare from lights. They can make it difficult to drive safely, perform household tasks, and maintain a normal level of independence. In cataract surgery, the eye lens is removed and usually replaced with an artificial lens without requiring a hospital stay. In the United States, age-related cataracts

affect at least 22 million people and cost an estimated $6.8 billion to treat each year. The cataract caseload is expected to rise to 30 million people by 2020, the researchers noted. Despite the common nature of cataracts, the U.S. has little population-based data on cataract surgery, information that can help estimate demand. The Mayo Clinic research found: • Cataract surgery has increased steadily, peaking in 2011 at a rate of 1,100 per 100,000 people. • Sixty percent of people receiving cataract surgery on one eye returned within three months to have it performed on the second eye, a significant increase over the number in a previous Mayo study which covered 1998 to 2004. • The mean annual rate of cataract surgery for women was significantly higher than for men. • There were significant increases in cataract surgery over the past 32 years among people in all age groups, except those age 90 and older. The trend raises questions about treatment costs and the resources needed to meet demand, Dr. Erie says. Medicare, for example, typically covers cataract surgery for its patients. Cataract surgery on a Medicare patient costs roughly $3,000 per eye. “Ophthalmology, ophthalmologists, patients, and payers are beginning to look at ways they can weigh the visual benefits to the individual patient against the cost to society as a whole. How can we maximize the outcome and minimize the cost to society?” Dr. Erie says.

Submissions for intergenerational poetry contest due March 5 Submissions for the 2014 Poetry Across the Generations competition – sponsored jointly by the University of Nebraska at Omaha, the Omaha Public Library, and the Omaha Public Schools, are due by Wednesday, March 5. The annual event features separate contests for poets in grades 7 through 12 and poets age 50 and older. Participants are asked to write two poems each: one about life as a teenager and another about life as a person age 60 or older. Prizes of $100, $50, and $25 for first, second, and third places, respectively will be awarded. Seven honorable mention finishers will receive $10 each. Winning poets can collect their cash prizes at a Sunday, March 23 poet recognition reception at UNO’s Milo Bail Student Center from 1 to 3:30 p.m. The event will include poetry readings, refreshments, and intergenerational poetry dialogue. All contest entrants are also invited to an Intergenerational Poetry Slam at UNO’s Milo Bail

Student Center on Sunday, March 30 from 1 to 3:30 p.m. Adult poetry submissions may be sent to Cindy Waldo, Sigma Phi Omega, Department of Gerontology, CB 211, University of Nebraska at Omaha, 6001 Dodge St, Omaha, Neb. 68182-0202 or online to www.omahapoetsplace.net. Teen poets may submit their poetry to Omaha Public Library, Bess Johnson Elkhorn Branch, Attn: Karen Berry, 2100 Reading Plz., Elkhorn, Neb. 68022 or online to www.omahapoetsplace.net. For more information, contact Cindy Waldo at cwaldo@ unomaha.edu.

RSVP Retired and Senior Volunteer Program

The Retired and Senior Volunteer Program is recruiting persons age 55 and older for a variety of opportunities. For more information in Douglas, Sarpy, and Cass counties, please call 402-444-6536, ext. 224. In Dodge and Washington counties, please call 402721-7780. The following have volunteer opportunities in Douglas, Sarpy, and Cass counties: • The Disabled American Veterans/VA Medical Center needs volunteer

ElderCare Resource Handbook Copies of the 2012 to 2014 ElderCare Resource Handbook are available online or as a hard copy from Care Consultants for the Aging. The 10th edition of the publication which provides information about programs and services for older adults in eastern Nebraska is available three ways: • For $7 at the Care Consultants for the Aging office, 7701 Pacific St., Suite 100. • By sending your name, address, and a check or money order for $10 to Care Consultants for the Aging, 7701 Pacific St., Suite 100, Omaha, Neb. 68114. The book will be mailed to you. You can also order the handbook using your credit card, by calling 402-398-1848. • By logging on the Internet to www.careconsultants. com. Click on the Resource Handbook tab. For more information, please call 402-398-1848.

New Cassel Retirement Center It’s Truly a Place to Call Home!

Come see our Christmas Village

Law Offices of Charles E. Dorwart

Every Thursday in December 1-3pm

31 years of legal experience • Wills • Living Trusts • Probate • Healthcare and Financial Powers of Attorney • In Home Consultations • Free Initial Consultation

Tours available

Enjoy hot chocolate and cookies!

This will certainly get you in the Christmas spirit.

New Cassel Offers: 24-hour Health Services Restaurant Style Meals Weekly Housekeeping Scheduled Transportation Daily / Weekly Worship Utilities / Cable Social Activities Computer Lab / Free Wi-Fi Gift Shop / Beauty Salon

Call (402) 393-2277

440 Regency Parkway Drive • Suite 139 Omaha, NE 68114 Office: (402) 558-1404 • Fax: (402) 779-7498 Cdorwartjd@aol.com

December 2013

drivers. • Good 360 is looking for respite volunteers to process donations and sort items. • The Douglas County Health Center wants volunteers for a variety of assignments. • Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Midlands needs a volunteer to assist with general tasks. • Creighton University/ Student Support Services needs volunteers to provide support services and as math tutors. • Alegent Creighton Health Bergan Mercy Medical Center is looking for volunteers for its gift shop, flower shop, and other areas. The following has a volunteer opportunity in Dodge County: • The Fremont Car-Go Program needs volunteer drivers

900 North 90th Street / Omaha, NE 68114 www.newcassel.org

Sponsored by the School Sisters of Saint Francis

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Legal issues, caregivers topic Developing your family’s medical history of free program on Dec. 10 can help you make lifestyle, health choices

ou’re invited to attend a free community educational event titled Legal Issues and the Caregiver on Tuesday, Dec. 10. Sponsored by the Coalition to Protect Aging Adults, the 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. presentation will be held in the auditorium at the New Cassel Retirement Center, 900 N. 90th St.

Retired judge Jane Prochaska will lead the discussion and be available to answer questions. To register – which is required – please send an e-mail to feelhaver@tconl. com by Dec. 8. Continuing education units are available for professionals that attend Legal Issues and the Caregiver.

Volunteer opportunities The Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging’s Foster Grandparent Program, Senior Companion Program, Ombudsman Advocate Program, and Senior Medicare Patrol Program are recruiting older adults to become volunteers. Foster Grandparents and Senior Companions must be age 55 or older, meet income guidelines, have a government issued identification card or a driver’s license, able to volunteer at least 15 hours a week, and must complete several background and reference checks.

The best way to gather information about your medical history is to talk with relatives about their health.

A Foster Grandparents and Senior Companions receive a $2.65 an hour stipend, transportation and meal reimbursement, paid vacation, sick, and holiday leave, and supplemental accident insurance. Foster Grandparents work with children who have special needs while Senior Companions work to keep older adults living independently. Ombudsman advocates work to ensure residents of nursing homes and assisted living facilities enjoy the best possible quality of life. Ombudsman advocates, who must be age 18 or older, are enrolled through an application and screening process. These volunteers, who are not compensated monetarily for their time, must serve at least two hours a week. The Senior Medicare Patrol program helps Medicaid beneficiaries avoid, detect, and prevent health care fraud. These volunteers, who are enrolled through an application and screening process, are not compensated monetarily for their time, For more information, please call 402-444-6536.

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number of celebrities have graced recent headlines by making some drastic decisions about their health, and in turn, raising awareness for the importance of knowing one’s family medical history. For instance, according to the Centers for Disease Control, a history of breast, cervical, or ovarian cancer indicates a strong risk of cancer in some women, and thus proactive and preventative measures, like having a mastectomy or hysterectomy, may be warranted.

In addition, nearly one out of five respondents said they or a close friend or family member has questioned paternity. Discovering your paternity can be fairly simple. A kit, such the Identigene DNA Paternity Test, is available at nationwide drug stores and supercenters, and offers 100 percent accurate and confidential results within a matter of days. • Talk to your family: The best way to gather information about your medical history is to talk with relatives about their

If you have a history of common medical conditions like heart disease, high blood pressure, or diabetes you have a higher chance of developing them as well, but prevention is possible. While facing these decisions can be difficult, Brittney Wilson, a registered nurse, knows first-hand the positive effect that knowing one’s family medical history can have on a patient’s overall health. Since many diseases tend to follow genetic lines, it’s important to know your roots in order to make better lifestyle choices. For example, if you have a history of common medical conditions like heart disease, high blood pressure, or diabetes you have a higher chance of developing them as well, but prevention is possible. Nurse Wilson offers steps you can take to develop a family medical history record that will help inform your lifestyle choices and serve generations to come. • Seek answers to lingering questions: You inherit half of your genetic profile from each parent. So, the first step in establishing your family medical history is to seek answers to any doubts or questions you may have about your parents’ identity. In today’s society, and with the rising rate of children born out of wedlock, this situation is actually more common than you might think. In fact, a recent survey conducted on behalf of Identigene, a DNA paternity test laboratory, concluded one out of 10 Americans has personally been in a situation where a paternity test was needed.

December 2013

health. An upcoming holiday gathering or family reunion is a great opportunity to start the conversation. Explain why you want to learn more about your family history and ask direct, specific questions to uncover any reoccurring medical issues and when they occurred. Consult existing documents, such as family trees, birth certificates, and obituaries to help obtain this information. From these materials, you can begin identifying potential patterns that should be discussed with a doctor. • Be proactive about getting healthy: After identifying potential patterns, make a point to discuss them with your primary care doctor at your next annual exam. A medical professional might suggest necessary screening and proactive steps you can take to help stay healthy and avoid certain predisposed conditions in the future. It’s also a good idea to continue to update your family medical history record to help future generations navigate their health. Preventative care is the most cost effective and least invasive way to ensure your health and prevent illness. Being aware of your family’s medical history is the first step towards making informed choices. (Family Features provided this information.)

Expected to afflict 115 million by 2050

Home Instead co-founder Hogan addresses the impact of Alzheimer’s disease, dementia By Paul Hogan

aring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia can be a sad, lonely, and often frustrating struggle. It could be Mom or Dad, a grandparent, or a beloved uncle, who begins to lose his or her grip on the world. They may speak and act strangely, forget familiar names and people, wander or get lost, regress to their childhood, or withdraw fully into themselves. Your own world may be upended by the need to take care of the person who you’ve looked on all your life as taking care of you. The recently released 2013 World Alzheimer Report estimates that 35 million people worldwide are afflicted by dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. That number will double by 2030 and triple to 115 million by 2050. Someone is being diagnosed with Alzheimer’s every seven seconds. Those of us who have family members with Alzheimer’s disease know too well the pain it can cause as their mind degenerates, their memories start to fade, and their moods change. And so we witness a loving and faithful family member or friend being robbed of his or her identity. Even though there is no known cure for Alzheimer’s disease yet, we should not despair, because with the appropriate long-term care and a network of family and outside caregivers, a person’s quality of life can still be relatively good. The reality is this: Until there is a cure, our focus has to be on care. Family caregivers need to be equipped to deal with what is being called “the global dementia epidemic.” People with dementia

have special needs for care, the World Alzheimer Report concluded. Compared with other long-term care users, they need more personal care, more hours of care, and more supervision, all of which is associated with greater caregiver strain, and higher costs of care. An estimated 50 percent of those suffering with dementia require care and eventually the others will share this need. When someone you know or love develops Alzheimer’s disease or another type of dementia, it’s easy to succumb to the belief there’s no hope, particularly when your most intimate friend or spouse no longer recognizes you. Equally troubling is witnessing the first time your father who was a community leader doesn’t remember how to brush his teeth or when you get a call from the supermarket that your mother can’t find her way home. Caregivers often struggle to understand the full impact of dementia, and many are overwhelmed by the responsibility. An estimated 70 percent of those suffering from dementia and Alzheimer’s choose to stay in their homes in an environment that is familiar to them. Th can be comforting at this stage in their life. Given the crisis that faces us in the 21st Century, healthcare systems, our elected officials, and the medical community have to place greater importance on the role of a caregiver until a cure for Alzheimer’s disease is found. The cost to the world economy will be overwhelming, and has been estimated annually at $604 billion. As the World Alzheimer Report concluded, “If dementia care were a country, it would rank between Turkey and Indonesia

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and be the world’s 18th largest economy.” This, of course, means legislators have to pursue laws that make the responsibility of caregiving easier and more accessible for families confronting what will be a long challenge that will ultimately affect us all as the Baby Boomers move into their senior years. There is certainly an urgent need for more national debate on the issue, a need for enlightened legislation, and a need for more training of family members and those who assume the responsibility of informal caregiving. Most importantly, there is a need for us to instill in those affected by dementia and Alzheimer’s disease the view that a diagnosis should not lead to despair. As it is said so often in 12-step programs, “You are not alone.” There are resources available and we should never lose hope. (Hogan is the chairman and co-founder of Home Instead Senior Care in Omaha. This is an edited version of Hogan’s article that appeared in the Huffington Post.)

you

about

Advice for older job seekers

o matter how impressive your resume, job interviews are a universally stressful experience, especially for job seekers over age 50. Entrepreneur Nikolaus Kimla suggests that, by shifting the emphasis from selling to connecting, job seekers over age 50 can gain an advantage over their younger counterparts. “Interviewing is like sales,” says Kimla. “The key to sales is not to force a buyer to want your product, but to build a relationship.” Kimla offers these tips for older adults looking for a job: • Focus on the interview: It is easy to make your interview about yourself. Often, people feel compelled to sell their attributes, but this can make you seem like you are overcompensating. Instead focus on the flow of conversation within the interview and try to maintain a presence of mind. • Focus on the benefit: You know how this company can benefit from having you on their team. Focus on what you and this employer could achieve together and paint the picture for the employer on how you can play a tremendous role in building the company’s future. • Focus on the relationship: Make an effort to bridge a complete connection to this employer based on your experience. Pay attention to the details mentioned throughout the interview. Keep in mind; people tend to help those to whom they can relate. • Use your age to your advantage: Always remember the more life-experience you have, the more you can leverage it to foster a connection. Your experience is your number one selling point but always make it apparent that you adapt well to new environments. Your age allows you to be well versed and to feel comfortable within the realm of corporate settings.

have questions

aging services

in Douglas, Sarpy, Dodge, Cass, or Washington counties? Log on to

enoa.org

The Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging’s Web site includes information about: • • • • • • • • • • •

Bath aides Care management Chore services Community education Durable medical equipment Emergency food pantry Emergency response systems ENOA facts and figures ENOA Library ENOA senior centers Grandparent Resource Center

December 2013

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24 hours a day, • Homemakers 7 days a week! • Information & assistance telephone lines • Intergeneration Orchestra of Omaha • Legal services • Meals on Wheels • Medicaid Waiver • New Horizons • Nutrition counseling

• • • • • • •

Ombudsman advocates Respite care Respite Resource Center Rural transportation Senior Care Options Senior employment Support of adult day facilities • Volunteer opportunities

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UNMC physician suggests women considering breast cancer surgery to examine all their options

Please see the ad on page 3

New Horizons Club membership roll increases

he fear of breast cancer hangs over many women like a dark cloud. They’re afraid of the breast cancer they have or fearful of the breast cancer diagnosis they someday might receive. Edibaldo Silva, M.D., Ph.D., professor of surgical oncology at the University of Nebraska Medical Center understands why some women prefer to take immediate, even drastic, action in order to achieve peace of mind. But Dr. Silva, who specializes in the research and treatment of breast cancer, counsels his patients to stop, take a breath, and sit down with their team of health care providers to determine their condition and discuss their options first. A week or two or three of gathering information won’t hurt your long-term prognosis, he said. “We have to assure the patient that things don’t change in a day or two or three or four or five or six or seven or eight. What you see in the U.S.

$25 Kathleen Arenz $15 Carolyn Warne Katheryn Thomas $10 Kenetta Phillips Charlie Venditte Annie Thompkins Mitzi Friedman Nancy Flaherty Donald Svajgl $7 Virginia Stopak $5 Barb Kingston Don Paxton Lucille Coufal Rosemary Johnson $2 Catherine Lauver $1 Beverly Richey

Reflects donations received through Nov. 22, 2013.

r u o y d e e n e W

! t r o p p su

Traditional funding sources are making it more difficult for ENOA to fulfill its mission. Partnership opportunities are available to businesses and individuals wanting to help us. These opportunities include volunteering, memorials, honorariums, gift annuities, and other contributions.

I would like to become a partner with the Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging, and help fulfill your mission with older adults.

ENOA

$30 = 7 meals or 1.75 hours of in-home homemaker services or 1 bath aide service for frail older adults. $75 = 17 meals or 4.75 hours of in-home homemaker services or 4 bath aide services for frail older adults. $150 = 35 meals or 9.5 hours of in-home homemaker services or 8 bath aide services for frail older adults. $300 = 70 meals or 19.25 hours of in-home homemaker services or 16 bath aide services for frail older adults. Other amount (please designate)__________________________ Please contact me. I would like to learn more about how to include the Eastern Nebraska Office on Aging in my estate planning. Please ma il with thisyofour donation rm to: Eas

tern Office oNebraska n Aging Address:___________________________________ Attention : Jef Name:_____________________________________

City:______________State:_____ Zip: __________ Phone:____________________________________

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f Reinha 4223 C rdt Omaha, enter Street NE 6810 5-2431 (402

) 444-665

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December 2013

now is women have a lump in the breast and they find it’s cancer, and the next day they are having bilateral double mastectomy,” Dr. Silva said. “No consideration of counseling, genetic testing, (or) none of that.” In fact, on average, among women who have a double mastectomy in the U.S., Dr. Silva said only 29 percent ever even discuss the subject with a genetic counselor to see if they carry mutated BRCA genes that cause breast and incurable ovarian cancer. Studies by the University of Michigan, the Mayo Clinic, and others show most women are doing it out of fear. Dr. Silva empathizes, but he said it’s important to remember that only 5 percent of women who contract breast cancer have “bad genes.” The rest, he said, simply had “bad luck,” likely a one-time occurrence. Their cancer is often best treated with lumpectomies and radiation, the effectiveness of which “we know is equivalent to mastectomy,” Dr. Silva said. A possible option for many women diagnosed with breast cancer could be to start chemotherapy while

simultaneously taking the time to gather information, Dr. Silva said. “First, it’s doing something; it is actively fighting the cancer. Second, if surgery is necessary, chemotherapy is a head start, making the surgery more effective and easier to complete. And third, in some cases, the cancer may be gone by the end of the chemo treatment. “And by gone, I mean you can’t find it,” Dr. Silva said. If you’re worried you carry the BRCA gene mutation, draw up your family tree, Dr. Silva said, and visit with a genetic counselor to see if you should get further testing. “The odds are overwhelmingly in your favor that you are not a gene carrier,” Dr. Silva said. But if you are among the statistically select few, it is serious. Those who do have the mutated genes but do not have cancer eventually will need a double mastectomy and removal of their ovaries. The gene causes a 20 to 40 percent risk of developing incurable ovarian cancer, Dr. Silva said. (UNMC’s Public Relations Department provided this information.)

Elder Access Line Legal Aid of Nebraska operates a free telephone access line for Nebraskans age 60 and older. Information is offered to help the state’s older men and women with questions on topics like bankruptcy, homestead exemptions, collections, powers of attorney, Medicare, Medicaid, grandparent rights, and Section 8 housing. The telephone number for the Elder Access Line is 402-8275656 in Omaha and 1-800-5277249 statewide. This service is available to Nebraskans age 60 and older regardless of income, race, or ethnicity. For more information, log on the Internet to http://www.legalaidofnebraska.com/EAL.

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Six-week series of programs on Alzheimer’s disease offered in 2014

Retired fed employees meet at Omaha eatery

Are you TURNING age 65

The National Association or are you new to Medicare? ou’re invited to attend a free six-week series of of Retired Federal Employprograms titled Alzheimer’s Disease: The Bridge ees’ Chapter 144 meets the Do you need HELP understanding to Acceptance. The programs will be held on first Wednesday of each your MEDICARE OPTIONS? a Office on Aging • 4223 Center Street • Omaha, NE 68105 Saturday mornings from 10 to 11:30 at 1055 N. 115th St., monthEastern at 11:30Nebraska a.m. at the Suite 200. Amazing Pizza Machine, CALL ME to discuss your Medicare The series will be offered March 8 through April 12, 13955 S Plz. rights, options, & entitlements TODAY! July 12 through Aug. 16, and Sept. 20 through Oct. 25. For more information, Here’s the please call 402-333-6460. schedule: • Week 1: Alzheimer’s Disease: The Road to ith more than a Diagnosis… and Appointed w … e companies Beyond with Terry Life insuranc & Let’s talk about the benefits lth ea H 50 s sts + benefit Johnson, a careCompare co that matter most to you. TODAY! giver for his wife The National Association and an adjunct of Retired Federal Employprofessor at Grace ees’ Aksarben Chapter 1370 University. meets second WednesKim Shulters November 12,the 2013 For more • Week 2: Legal of each month at 11:30 Senior Insurance Specialist Lowen day Kruse information Documents: What a.m. at the Amazing Pizza 402-968-1500 contact: if Something HapMachine, 13955 S Plz. kimshulters@gmail.com pens to Me? With Niel Nielsen from the Carlson Burnett For more information, Lowen, Law Firm. please call 402-392-0624. Here’s your ad for the classified section for the December issue. Please let me • Week 3: Protecting your Assets: What to do When the Forecast Calls for know if this is okay. If you have any changes, give me a call @ 402-444-4148. Please call 402-444-4148 Once ad is approved mail your check for $16.00 to: Rain? with representatives from Financial Visions, LLC. or 402- 444-6654 • Week 4: Family Dynamics: How Do We Talk With to place your ad New Horizons Our Kids? with Annie Dyer, administrator from the Praic/o Jeff Reinhardt, Editor rie Meadows Alzheimer’s Special Care Center. OLD STUFF WANTED 4223 Center Street Lamplighter II • Week 5: Community Resources: Industry Bestsellers Tree Trimming (before 1975) Some of the nicest, newer 1 bedroom with Michaela Williams from Care Consultants for the Omaha, NE 68105 Postcards, photos, drapes, apartments. Elevator, w & d, heated Beat the Aging. lamps, 1950s and before fabrics, parking garage. Small complex. By bus falling leaves! • Week 6: Your Plan B: A Reality Check for Careclothes, lady’s hats, & shopping. No pets or smoking. 93rd & Maple • 402-397-6921 Chipping & removal. givers with Cathy Wyatt, CSA from Financial Visions,Thanks! & men’s ties, pictures, pottery, glass, jewelry, toys, fountain Your prunings chipped. LLC. Mitch Laudenback pens, furniture, etc. Experienced & insured. For more information, please call 402-661-9611. POOL TABLES @ New HorizonsCall anytime Senior discount.

What you don’t know could COST YOU!

CLASSIFIEDS

402-397-0254 or 402-250-9389

Bellevue Community Senior Center You’re invited to the Bellevue Senior Community Center, 109 W. 22nd Ave this month for: • Monday, Dec. 2: Presentation on managing diabetes @ 11 a.m. • Thursday, Dec. 5: Presentation from the Bellevue Police Department on how to be safer in your home @ 11 a.m. • Thursday, Dec. 5: Evening meal @ 6 p.m. The menu is a hot turkey sandwich, mashed potatoes with gravy, mixed vegetables, and cinnamon apples. • Friday, Dec. 6: Nursing students from Methodist College will do blood pressure readings @ 10 a.m. • Monday, Dec. 9: Speaker on holiday health @ 11 a.m. • Thursday, Dec. 12: Evening meal @ 6 p.m. The menu is roast pork with gravy, a baked potato, green beans, a dinner roll, and a brownie with ice cream. • Tuesday, Dec. 17: Advisory Forum @ 11 a.m. • Thursday, Dec. 19: Fire safety presentation from the Bellevue Police Department @ 11 a.m. • Thursday, Dec. 19: Evening meal @ 6 p.m. The menu is fried chicken, baked sweet potatoes, carrots, a dinner roll with margarine, and Jell-O parfait. • Friday, Dec. 20: Bellevue Family Christmas program. Join us at 11 a.m. to hear Christine Coulson and stay for lunch. • Monday, Dec. 23: Talk by Scott on understanding your medications @ 11 a.m. The center is open Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. and 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Thursday. A $3 donation is suggested for the midday meals. A $4 donation is suggested for the evening meals for anyone age 60 and older and $7 for those under age 60. Reservations are due by noon the business day prior to the meal you wish to enjoy. We also offer chair volleyball on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at 10:30 a.m. For meal reservations or more information, please call Regan or Brenda at 402-293-3041.

Interested in providing respite care for people with a disability? Contact the Respite Resource Center today to learn more. 402-996-8444 or echentland@gmail.com

REPUTABLE SERVICES, INC. • Remodeling & Home Improvement

Moving, refelting, assemble, repair, tear down. Used slate tables. We pay CASH for slate pool tables.

Big Red Billiards 402-598-5225

PUMP ORGAN FOR SALE Pump Organ – Weaver, York, PA Excellent condition, $400.

• Handyman Services • Senior Discounts • Free Estimates • References • Fully Insured Quality Professional Service

TOP CASH PAID

Best & honest prices paid for: Old jewelry, furniture, glassware, Hummels, knick-knacks, old hats & purses, dolls, old toys, quilts, linens, buttons, pottery, etc. Also buying estates & partial estates. Call Bev at 402-339-2856

PAID THROUGH March 2013 For more information call

402-453-4825 Buying or selling?

Use the New Horizons

CLASSIFIEDS

Call 402-444-4148 or 402-444-6654 to place your ad

• Safety Equipment Handrails Smoke and Fire Alarms • Painting Interior & Exterior

402-894-9206

deFreese Manor

Subsidized housing for those age 62 and over with incomes under $25,450 (1 person) or $29,100 (two persons) 2669 Dodge Omaha, NE 402-345-0622

Better Business Bureau Member

402-4 5 5-7 0 0 0

Senior Citizens (62+) Accepting applications for HUD-subsidized apartments in Papillion & Bellevue. Rent determined by income and medical expenses. Monarch Villa West 201 Cedar Dale Road Papillion (402) 331-6882 Bellewood Courts 1002 Bellewood Court Bellevue (402) 292-3300 Managed by Kimball Management., Inc. We do business in accordance with the Fair Housing Law.

Enoa Aging December 2013

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Tips for healthy hands washing According to recent research, 95 percent of Americans admit it’s important to wash their hands after using a public restroom. This is particularly true with women compared to men. What’s even more interesting is that a growing number of consumers admit to simply rinsing their hands with water without using soap in public washrooms. In fact, this number has increased from 54 percent to 70 percent on the national level over the past two years.

The recommended time to wash one’s hands with soap and water in order to kill bacteria is at least 20 seconds. And just how long are they “washing” their hands? Suds or no suds, a majority of Americans don’t wash their hands long enough. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the recommended time to wash one’s hands with soap and water in order to kill bacteria is at least 20 seconds. These findings are part of the fifth annual Healthy Hand Washing Survey conducted by Bradley Corporation, a Milwaukeebased manufacturer of commercial plumbing fixtures and washroom accessories. Bradley is dedicated to innovating products that create efficient washroom environments and promote healthy hand washing. The survey also revealed that increased media coverage or stories about food-borne or airborne illnesses have an impact on hand washing habits. More than half of consumers, 57 percent, claimed they wash their hands more often and more thoroughly in response to news coverage. Sixty-six percent also reported washing their hands more frequently in response to news about seasonal flu outbreaks. “These findings underscore the need for consumers to be mindful of good hand hygiene,” said Jon Dommisse, director of global marketing and strategic development for Bradley. “Everyone can play their part in preventing the spread of viruses such as influenza during the winter months. Always remember, it takes less than a minute to effectively wash your hands.”

To keep you and your family healthy, Bradley recommends five simple steps to effective hand washing: • Wash more frequently: It’s important to wash your hands not only after using the washroom, but, before and after preparing and eating food; before and after treating a wound; after blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing; and after touching the garbage. • Count to 20: Proper hand washing means scrubbing with water and soap for at least 20 seconds or the time it takes to sing “Happy Birthday” twice. Be sure to scrub the backs of your hands, between your fingers, and under your nails. • Don’t forget to dry: Smart hand hygiene should not only include washing, but thoroughly drying hands as well. The most hygienic and sustainable method is using an energy-efficient dryer. • Hand sanitizers aren’t enough: While 29 percent of consumers surveyed use a hand sanitizer, it may not be as effective when hands are visibly dirty. Anti-bacterial gel is not a substitute for soap and water, and should only be relied upon if handwashing facilities aren’t available. • Clean hands means healthy kids: Hand washing among school-age children is especially important because nearly 2.2 million children under the age of 5 die each year from diarrheal diseases and pneumonia, according to a 2011 study from the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. Kids should be taught healthy routines like hand washing at an early age. (Family Features provided this article.)

A vehicle’s interior contains a cocktail of toxic chemicals The interior of your car may seem like a safe haven from air pollution, but it may actually be quite the opposite. Chemicals emanating from the steering wheel, dashboard, armrests, and seats mix with the airborne pollution being generated under the hood to form a witch’s brew of toxins for those riding inside. “Research shows vehicle interiors contain a unique cocktail of hundreds of toxic chemicals in small, confined spaces,” says Jeff Gearhart of the Ecology Center, a Michigan-based non-profit. The extreme air temperatures inside cars on sunny days can increase the concentration of volatile organic compounds and break other chemicals down into more toxic constituents. Some of the worst offenders include airborne bromine, chlorine, lead, and other heavy metals. “Since these chemicals are not regulated, consumers have no way of knowing the dangers they face,” adds Gearhart. Exhaust fumes also find their way into the passenger cabins of many cars. The International Center for Technology Assessment found concentrations of carbon monoxide (a noxious by-product of internal combustion known to cause headaches, dizziness, nausea, and fatigue as well as being a major asthma trigger) might be 10 times higher inside any given car than outdoors along the roadside. ICTA added in light of the fact the average American spends an hour and a half driving around each day; in-car air pollution may pose “one of the greatest modern threats to human health.” “The good news is overall vehicle ratings are improving,” reports the Ecology Center. Consumers can check on their late model car by steering their web browser to the HealthyStuff.org website, the Ecology Center’s free online resource for consumer information. While environmental and public health groups are working to try to get automakers to clean up their interiors, individuals can reduce their exposure by parking in the shade, using interior sun reflectors to keep temperatures down inside the car, and rolling down the windows to let the fresh air inside. (EarthTalk® is a registered trademark of E - The Environmental Magazine.)

Call 402-345-1576 for tickets

Blue Barn Theatre’s Christmas show runs through Sunday, Dec. 22 Jacob Marley’s Christmas Carol by Tom Mula will be on stage through Dec. 22 at the Blue Barn Theatre, 614 S. 11th St. Show times are 7:30 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, 6 p.m. on Dec. 1, 8, and 22, and 2 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 15. Tickets are $25 for adults and $20 for persons age 65 and older, TAG members, and groups of 10 or more. For reservations, please call 402-345-1576.

Holiday Brunch at Hickory Villa Come celebrate the holidays with us!

Proceeds will be used towards gifts for seniors unable to be with family during Christmas.

You are invited to enjoy a wonderful holiday brunch, complete with entertainment, alongside your loved ones at Hickory Villa. The event is $5.00 per person and will begin at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, December 20th. Please RSVP by December 13th. We can’t wait to see you!

Hickory Villa • Assisted Living 7315 Hickory St. Omaha, NE 68124

Find us on Facebook!

(402) 392-0767 • www.BethesdaSeniorLiving.com Page 20

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