50plus LIFE Chester County November 2018

Chester County Edition | November 2018 • Vol. 15 No. 11

Complimentary

National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month page 4

Cola increase announced for 2019 page 11

financial aid for family caregivers page 16

“There’s no place like home.”

We agree.

The Beauty in Nature

Courtship Timing Clyde McMillan-Gamber

–L. Frank Baum

That’s why Harrison Senior Living strives to provide warmth, comfort, and exceptional care from people you can trust, making our communities the next best thing.

www.Harrisonseniorliving.com Harrison House—Chester County 300 Strode Avenue East Fallowfield, PA 19320 610.384.6310 Harrison House—Christiana 41 Newport Avenue Christiana, PA 17509 610.593.6901

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Every November, over the years, I mother deer have plenty of food to have enjoyed the courting of whiteproduce ample milk for their single or tailed deer and great horned owls twin fawns. among the woods, fields, and thickets And, being born late in May of southeastern Pennsylvania. ensures warmth and the whole Being adaptable, the beautiful, summer and autumn to grow strong graceful deer and and fat to be able the handsome, to cope with the stately owls coming winter. are abundant Deer born any in this area, other time might allowing us many not have as good a opportunities to chance at survival experience them to maturity. through the year, Pairs of local especially during horned owls court November. by hooting to each At that time, other at dusk and White-tailed deer deer are less dawn in November cautious and, into December. therefore, more In January, each obvious. The pair of owls usurps owls frequently a stick cradle hoot “hoo, hoo, made by hawks, hoo — hoooooo, herons, or crows hoooooo,” which high in a tall tree gives away their in a woodland or presence. older suburb. Each The rutting female owl lays one season of whiteto three eggs in tails in this area her nursery late in starts around the January.

Great horned owl middle of October The owlets hatch and continues into toward the end of early December, with a peak of rutting February and are brooded and fed by in November. During that time, adult both parents. The young leave their bucks use their bony antlers to push nursery toward late April and are on against the antlers of other bucks to their own by May’s end. At that time, determine who is stronger. juvenile rodents and rabbits abound, Fortunately, those dramatic providing ample food for young owls contests among bucks usually don’t inexperienced at hunting. cause serious injury and are seldom The courtship timing of whitefatal. The mightiest bucks in those tailed deer and great horned owls battles earn the right to mate with the is correct. Young of both species majority of does in their home areas, are born and develop when food helping ensure strong, healthy fawns and warmth are most abundant, next year. giving each species a good chance of White-tails’ mating around surviving.

November determines that the Other kinds of wildlife have resulting fawns are born about seven correct mating times as well, such months later, toward the end of May. as American robins hatching young At that time, there is plenty of lush, when earthworms are most available green vegetation that ensures that to feed to their offspring. www.50plusLifePA.com

Harrisburg Hosts Inaugural Statewide LGBTQ Aging Summit The Wolf administration, in partnership with LGBTQ aging advocates and stakeholders, hosted Pennsylvania’s inaugural LGBTQ Aging Summit Oct. 9-10 at the Sheraton Harrisburg Hershey Hotel, Harrisburg.

Secretary of Aging Teresa Osborne kicked off the summit and introduced day one’s keynote speaker, the Hon. Kathy Greenlee, vice president of aging and health policy, Center for Practical Bioethics, A provider panel discusses best practices for serving and former assistant secretary of aging, U.S. LGBTQ older adults and the importance of being Department of Human Health & Services. culturally competent within provider networks Greenlee traveled from Kansas to attend the during the LGBTQ Aging Summit in Harrisburg. inaugural summit and shared experiences and obstacles regarding her sexuality from high school to “With over 300 participants from across the present day; presented on the urgency for provider state convening in Harrisburg for the sole purpose networks to be LGBTQ-friendly; and discussed the of connecting communities and inspiring change, barriers that many LGBTQ elders face. we are confident that our efforts to better serve,

support, enable, and empower LGBTQ seniors will continue to move forward due the foundation that was laid,” Osborne said.

Day one of the summit also featured a community panel discussion with LGBTQ older adults, moderated by Carol Harris of Dering Consulting Group, which allowed the panelists to share their lived experiences and highlight the various difficulties many experience as older LGBTQ individuals.

Secretary of Health Dr. Rachel Levine opened day two and introduced the keynote speaker, Michael Adams, CEO of SAGE, who spoke to the audience regarding LGBTQ cultural competency and inclusion.

After Adams’ remarks, the summit hosted a please see SUMMIT page 8

At Your Fingertips Helpful numbers, hotlines, and local businesses and organizations eager to serve you—all just a phone call away.

Disasters American Red Cross Greater Brandywine (610) 692-1200 Chester County Emergency Services (610) 344-5000 Salvation Army Coatesville (610) 384-2954 Salvation Army West Chester (610) 696-8746 Emergency Numbers Central Pennsylvania Poison Center (800) 521-6110

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (800) 232-4636 Coatesville VA Medical Center (610) 383-7711 Domestic Violence (800) 799-7233

Legal Services Lawyer Referral Service (610) 429-1500

PACE (800) 225-7223

Legal Aid of Southeastern Pennsylvania (610) 436-4510

Senior Healthlink (610) 431-1852

Nutrition Meals on Wheels Chester County Inc. (610) 430-8500

Social Security Administration (800) 772-1213

Financial Services Internal Revenue Service (800) 829-3676

Southeastern Pennsylvania Medical Institute (610) 446-0662

Health & Medical Services Alzheimer’s Association (800) 272-3900 American Cancer Society (800) 227-2345 American Heart Association (610) 940-9540 Arthritis Foundation (215) 570-3060 www.50plusLifePA.com

JEWELERS American Gold & Estate Buyers, Inc. 363 E. Lincoln Highway, Exton (484) 872-8216

National Osteoporosis Foundation (800) 223-9994

Office of Aging (610) 344-6350/(800) 692-1100

Funeral & Cremation Services Cremation Society of Pennsylvania Serving Chester County (800) 720-8221

Housing Authority of Phoenixville (610) 933-8801

Hearing Services Pennsylvania Office for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (800) 233-3008 V/TTY home equity loans Glendale Mortgage (610) 853-6500; (888) 456-0988 Housing Assistance Community Impact Legal Services (610) 876-0804 Housing Authority of Chester County (610) 436-9200

Pennsylvania Hunger Action Center (800) 366-3997 Office of Aging Chester County Department of Aging Services (610) 344-6350 Orthopedics Premier Orthopaedics Locations in Coatesville and Pottstown (610) 792-9292 Pharmacies CVS/pharmacy www.cvs.com

Physicians Gateway Medical Associates Locations in Coatesville, Downingtown, Lionville, and West Chester (610) 423-8181 retirement living Friends Home in Kennett 147 W. State St., Kennett Square (610) 444-2577 Harrison Senior Living Locations in Christiana and East Fallowfield (610) 384-6310 Senior Centers Coatesville (610) 383-6900 Downingtown (610) 269-3939 Great Valley (610) 889-2121 Kennett Square (610) 444-4819 Oxford (610) 932-5244 Phoenixville (610) 935-1515 Wayne (610) 688-6246 West Chester (610) 431-4242 Not an all-inclusive list of advertisers in your area.

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November is National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month

Corporate Office

3912 Abel Drive, Columbia, PA 17512 Phone 717.285.1350 • Fax 717.285.1360 Chester County: 610.675.6240 Cumberland County/Dauphin County: 717.770.0140 Berks County/Lancaster County/ Lebanon County/York County: 717.285.1350 E-mail address: info@onlinepub.com Website address: www.onlinepub.com

PRESIDENT AND PUBLISHER Donna K. Anderson

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Vice President and Managing Editor Christianne Rupp Editor, 50plus Publications Megan Joyce

ART DEPARTMENT Project Coordinator Renee McWilliams Production Artist Lauren Phillips

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

Senior Marketing Consultants Joshua Binkley Janette McLaurin Jennifer Schmalhofer Angie Willis Marketing Consultant Joseph Herr Events Manager Kimberly Shaffer Marketing Coordinator Kelsey Fishburn

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Views expressed in opinion stories, contributions, articles and letters are not necessarily the views of the publisher. The appearance of advertisements for products or services does not constitute an endorsement of the particular product or service. The publisher will not be responsible for mistakes in advertisements unless notified within five days of publication. On-Line Publishers, Inc. reserves the right to revise or reject any and all advertising. No part of this publication may be reproduced or reprinted without permission of On-Line Publishers, Inc. We will not knowingly publish any advertisement or information not in compliance with the Federal Fair Housing Act, Pennsylvania State laws or other local laws.

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Cover Story

Earlier Conversations about Alzheimer’s Warning Signs Needed November is National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month, and the Alzheimer’s Association, together with advocates in the early stages of the disease, are encouraging families to talk about memory and cognition concerns sooner.

These advocates know firsthand that an early diagnosis offers many benefits, including access to more effective medical and lifestyle interventions and the ability to take an active role in planning with family members for the future.

“Denial and rationalization are common responses to the early signs and symptoms of Alzheimer’s — it was a part of my experience,” said Darrell Foss, a member of the Alzheimer’s Association’s Early-Stage Advisory Group, which is composed of people in the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease.

“Too often, people experiencing symptoms, or family members seeing them, wait to speak up, even when they know something is wrong. It can be scary, but that is why I’m sharing my personal experience — to illustrate why talking about Alzheimer’s concerns early is so important,” Foss said.

“Unfortunately, people often avoid conversations due to denial, fear, anxiety, lack of awareness, and difficulty having hard conversations about health issues, particularly with Alzheimer’s or other dementias due to stigma and perceptions associated with the disease,” said Ruth Drew, director of Family and Information Services for the Alzheimer’s Association.

New findings from an Alzheimer’s Association survey found a majority of Americans would be concerned about offending a family member (76 percent), or ruining their relationship (69 percent), if they were to approach that person about observed signs of Alzheimer’s.

More alarming, 38 percent said they would wait until a family member’s Alzheimer’s symptoms worsened before approaching them with concerns.

Additionally, nearly 1 in 3 Americans (29 percent) would not say anything to a family member despite their concerns.

To help families overcome common communication obstacles, the Alzheimer’s Association is offering Six Tips for Approaching Alzheimer’s, a list of best practices for talking about the disease with someone who may be experiencing symptoms. These include: • Have the conversation as early as possible • Think about who’s best suited to have the conversation • Practice conversation starters • Offer support and companionship • A nticipate gaps in self-awareness • Recognize the conversation may not go as planned “We know that initiating conversations can be difficult; these tips are aimed at making a discussion about Alzheimer’s less daunting and more productive,” said Drew.

“We also know from talking to families that, while individuals may wish they didn’t have Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia, they never regret being able to prepare for the future, play an active role in their own financial and care planning, and make their wishes known to their family members.”

The Value of Early Diagnosis There are many medical, financial, emotional, and social benefits to receiving an early Alzheimer’s www.50plusLifePA.com

November is National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month diagnosis — both for those living with the disease and their families. These include: • Accurate diagnosis – Can help determine if someone’s cognitive changes are truly due to Alzheimer’s or some other, perhaps even treatable, condition • Medical benefits – Allows individuals to explore medications for memory loss, sleep changes, and behavior changes resulting from the disease, as well as to adopt lifestyle changes that may help preserve their existing cognitive function for as long as possible, such as controlling one’s blood pressure, smoking cessation, and exercise • Participation in clinical trials – Enables individuals to enroll in clinical trials that advance research and may provide medical benefits • Planning for the future – Allows individuals more time to plan for the future while they are cognitively able to make legal, financial, and end-of-life decisions •E motional and social benefits – Provides individuals with the best opportunity to spend time doing meaningful activities and interacting with the most important people in their lives; it can also open doors to many educational and support programs Mary Tarbell, 66, an Alzheimer’s Association early-stage adviser who was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease in 2016, said getting her diagnosis has helped refocus her priorities.

“Learning I had Alzheimer’s was painful,” said Tarbell. “But getting an early

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diagnosis has given me the chance to make informed decisions about the future with my family. My husband and I are using this time to plan some vacations and do the things we want to do while we still can.”

Living with Alzheimer’s In addition to encouraging families to talk about Alzheimer’s openly and to seek diagnosis earlier, Alzheimer’s Association early-stage advisers are sharing their stories about life after an Alzheimer’s diagnosis, including steps individuals can take to move forward and live their best lives.

“Many see Alzheimer’s disease as the end of life and, while there is currently no cure, living with the disease is a complex experience that often runs the course of many years,” said Pam Montana, an early-stage adviser who was diagnosed in 2016 at age 61.

“It is so important for me to encourage others with a diagnosis to stay active and engaged as long as possible. I encourage people to seek out life-affirming moments. For example, I’m an advocate for the cause … and that leads to an enormous sense of accomplishment, even with this extremely difficult diagnosis.”

The Alzheimer’s Association helps families and friends navigate challenges and considerations at each stage of the disease, through face-to-face conversations with experts in local communities, a free 24/7 helpline at (800) 272-3900, and comprehensive support and resources on www.alz.org.

Source: Alzheimer’s Association

Contract Opportunity Available:

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Distributor will place new materials in establishments and remove old material, disposing of it accordingly. Successful candidate must have reliable transportation, be capable of hauling publications, and possess a clear driving record. Reply via email to sanderson@onlinepub.com.

Silver Award

Bronze Award

Bronze Award

“American Bandstand: Still Hoppin’ after 60 Years” by Eddie Collins

“Get ‘Caught’ by Bluebirds”

by Megan Joyce

“Mastering the Arts — Martial Arts, That Is”

by Megan Joyce

www.50plusLIFEPA.com www.50plusLifePA.com

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About Our Company For more than 20 years, On-Line Publishers, Inc. has celebrated serving the mind, heart, and spirit of the 50plus community of Central Pennsylvania. Our corporate office is located outside Columbia, Pa.

Publications

50plus LIFE is a monthly newsprint magazine touching on issues and events relevant to the 50+ community.

The Resource Directory for the Caregiver, Aging, and Disabled is published annually in distinct county editions with information from local businesses and organizations that meet the needs of these groups.

50plus Living, an annual publication, is a guide to residences and healthcare options for mature adults in the Susquehanna and Delaware valleys.

BusinessWoman is a monthly magazine with a focus on business.

It features profiles of local executive women who are an inspiration to other professionals. Lifestyle and wellness articles are also included to round out the publication and address the many facets of a woman’s life.

All publications are available in print and digital formats.

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OLP Events, our events division, produces six 50plus EXPOs annually in Chester, Cumberland, Dauphin, Lancaster (two), and York counties.

Entrance to the event, health screenings, and seminars held throughout the day are free to visitors.

The women’s expo is a oneday event featuring exhibitors and interactive fun that encompass many aspects of a woman’s life. In 2019, women’s expos will be held in Hershey in early spring and in Lebanon, Lancaster, and Carlisle in the fall.

OLP Events presents the Veterans’ Expo & Job Fair, a free, two-part event that takes place in York and in Wyomissing in the spring, in the Capital Area in late summer, and in Lancaster in the fall. The Veterans’ Expo connects active and retired military members and their families with benefits, resources, and employers.

For more information, call (717) 285-1350 or visit www.onlinepub.com.

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November is National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month

Music Activates Regions of the Brain Spared by Alzheimer’s Disease Ever get chills listening to a particularly moving piece of music?

You can thank the salience network of the brain for that emotional jolt.

Surprisingly, this region also remains an island of remembrance that is spared from the ravages of Alzheimer’s disease.

Researchers at the University of Utah Health (healthcare. utah.edu) are looking to this region of the brain to develop music-based treatments to help alleviate anxiety in patients with dementia.

“People with dementia are confronted by a world that is unfamiliar to them, which causes disorientation and anxiety,” said Jeff Anderson, M.D., Ph.D., associate professor in Radiology at U of U Health and contributing author on the study.

“We believe music will tap into the salience network of the brain that is still relatively functioning.”

Previous work demonstrated the effect of a personalized music program on mood for dementia patients. This study set out to examine a mechanism that activates the attentional network in the salience region of the brain.

The results offer a new way to approach anxiety, depression, and agitation in patients with dementia. Activation of neighboring

regions of the brain may also offer opportunities to delay the continued decline caused by the disease.

For three weeks, the researchers helped participants select meaningful songs and trained the patient and caregiver on how to use a portable media player loaded with the selfselected collection of music.

“When you put headphones on dementia patients and play familiar music, they come alive,” said Jace King, a graduate student in the Brain Network Lab and first author on the paper.

“Music is like an anchor, grounding the patient back in reality.”

Using a functional MRI, the researchers scanned the patients to image the regions of the brain that lit up when they listened to 20-second clips of music versus silence.

The researchers played eight clips of music from the patient’s music collection, eight clips of the same music played in reverse, and eight blocks of silence. The researchers compared the images from each scan and found that music activates the brain, causing whole regions to communicate.

By listening to the personal soundtrack, the visual network, the salience network, the executive network, and the cerebellar and corticocerebellar network pairs all www.50plusLifePA.com

November is National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month showed significantly higher functional connectivity.

“This is objective evidence from brain imaging that shows personally meaningful music is an alternative route for communicating with patients who have Alzheimer’s disease,” said Norman Foster, M.D., director of the Center for Alzheimer’s Care at U of U Health and senior author on the paper.

“Language and visual memory pathways are damaged early as the disease progresses, but personalized music programs can activate the brain, especially for patients who are losing contact with their environment.”

However, these results are by no means conclusive. The researchers note the small sample size (17 participants) for this study.

In addition, the study only included a single imaging session for each patient. It is remains unclear whether the effects identified in this study persist beyond a brief period of stimulation or whether other areas of memory or mood are enhanced by changes in neural activation and connectivity for the long term.

“In our society, the diagnoses of dementia are snowballing and are taxing resources to the max,” Anderson said. “No one says playing music will be a cure for Alzheimer’s disease, but it might make the symptoms more manageable, decrease the cost of care, and improve a patient’s quality of life.”

Landmark Alzheimer’s Study Urgently Seeks Volunteers Alzheimer’s disease is the sixth leading cause of death overall in the United States and affects more than 5 million Americans. According to experts, this number could triple to nearly 16 million people by 2050.

A scientific study focused on early detection of Alzheimer’s disease, and tracking it over time, seeks healthy volunteers without memory problems, as well as people who have mild memory problems and those who have been diagnosed with mild dementia due to Alzheimer’s disease.

The Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative — or ADNI — is funded by the National Institutes of Health and is one of the largest and longest-running Alzheimer’s disease trials in history.

Now in the third phase of trials, researchers are studying how quickly things like reasoning and the ability to perform certain functions change in the aging brain.

“We need to know how Alzheimer’s disease progresses in order to discover new treatments that could significantly improve the way we treat it in the future,” Michael Weiner, M.D., principal investigator of the study, said.

The study uses state-of-the-art imaging to monitor brain levels of two proteins called tau and amyloid, both of which are significant indicators of Alzheimer’s disease.

Researchers track cognitive function through computer tests at home and in a doctor’s office, which includes measuring changes in one’s ability to handle www.50plusLifePA.com

money, a common warning sign of the disease.

“One of the biggest challenges researchers face is finding people to volunteer to take part in studies,” Weiner said. “We can beat Alzheimer’s, but we can’t do it without volunteers.”

The ADNI study needs 800 people ages 55-90 to enroll in sites across the United States and in Canada. No medication is involved.

Potential study volunteers can learn more by visiting www.adni3.org or by calling (888) 2-ADNI-95 (888) 223-6495).

Account Representative On-Line Publishers, Inc., a 23-year-old publisher and event-production company, is seeking an account representative to sell our award-winning 50plus LIFE, Resource Directories, events, and websites.

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November is National Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month Spotting 10 Early Alzheimer’s Symptoms The Alzheimer’s Association provides the following list of 10 early warning signs of Alzheimer’s disease.

If you or a loved one is experiencing any of these signs, schedule an appointment with your doctor.

1. Memory Loss that Disrupts Daily Life. One of the most common signs of Alzheimer’s disease, especially in the early stage, is forgetting recently learned information. Others include forgetting important dates or events, asking for the same information over and over, and increasingly needing to rely on aids (e.g., reminder notes or electronic devices) or family members for things they used to handle on their own.

2. Challenges in Planning or Solving Problems.

Some people may experience changes in their ability to develop and follow a plan or work with numbers.

They may have trouble following a familiar recipe or keeping track of monthly bills. They may have difficulty concentrating and take much longer to do things than they did before.

3. Difficulty Completing Familiar Tasks at Home, at Work, or at Leisure.

People with Alzheimer’s disease often find it hard to complete daily tasks.

Sometimes they may have trouble driving to a familiar location, managing a budget at work, or remembering the rules of a favorite game.

4. Confusion with Time or Place. People with Alzheimer’s can lose track of dates, seasons, and the passage of time. They may have trouble understanding something if it is not happening immediately. Sometimes they may forget where they are or how they got there.

5. Trouble Understanding Visual Images and Spatial Relationships. For some people, having vision problems is a sign of Alzheimer’s. They may have difficulty reading, judging distance, and determining color or contrast, which

may cause problems with driving.

6. New Problems with Words in Speaking or Writing. People with Alzheimer’s disease may have trouble following or joining a conversation. They may stop in the middle of a conversation and have no idea how to continue, or they may repeat themselves. They may struggle with vocabulary, have problems finding the right word, or call things by the wrong name.

7. Misplacing Items and Losing the Ability to Retrace Steps. A person with Alzheimer’s may put things in unusual places. They may lose things and be unable to go back over their steps to find them again. Sometimes, they may accuse others of stealing. This may occur more frequently over time.

8. Decreased or Poor Judgment. People with Alzheimer’s may experience changes in judgment or decision making. For example, they may use poor judgment when dealing with money, giving large amounts to telemarketers. They may pay less attention to grooming or keeping themselves clean.

9. Withdrawal from Work or Social Activities. A person with Alzheimer’s disease may start to remove themselves from hobbies, social activities, work projects, or sports. They may have trouble keeping up with a favorite sports team or remembering how to complete a favorite hobby. They may also avoid being social because of the changes they have experienced.

10. Changes in Mood and Personality. The mood and personalities of people with Alzheimer’s can change. They can become confused, suspicious, depressed, fearful, or anxious. They may be easily upset at home, at work, with friends, or in places where they are out of their comfort zone.

Source: Alzheimer’s Association

SUMMIT from page 3 provider panel comprising Dr. Imani Woody, founding director and CEO, Mary’s House for Older Adults; Rabbi Erica Steelman, director of LGBT+ initiatives and staff chaplain, Abramson Center for Jewish Life; Doreen Hespell, director, Montgomery County Area Agency on Aging; Linda Marucci, social worker, Southwest Senior Center; and Arthur Breese, director of diversity and inclusion, Geisinger.

The panel discussed best practices for serving LGBTQ older adults and the importance of being culturally competent within provider networks.

At the conclusion of the provider panel, the summit organized a regional planning session with a focus on tangible community action for the varying regions of summit attendees, specifically regarding how Pennsylvania can build better connections between the older LGBTQ community and providers.

After lunch, which featured speaker Dr. Nii-Quartelai Quartey, national LGBT liaison for AARP, the regional planning groups reported their

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recommendations and findings from the earlier planning session.

The summit concluded with a state panel, featuring Osborne, Levine, and Todd Snovel, executive director, Pennsylvania’s Commission on LGBTQ Affairs.

Panelists shared insight on the Wolf administration’s efforts to improve LGBTQ inclusiveness, provided feedback on the suggestions from the regional planning session, and took questions from attendees.

“The inaugural statewide LGBTQ Aging Summit allowed us the opportunity to continue to provide resources and answer questions for the older LGBTQ population,” Levine said.

“This first summit is essential to providing information to people in these communities and allowing them to share their stories. We are committed to ensuring that the health community understands and provides for the health needs of this population.” www.50plusLifePA.com

Fifties Flashback

You’re Traveling through Another Dimension …

Randal C. Hill

In 1964, weary of railing against censorship and other ongoing battles, creator Rod Serling chose not to oppose the third cancellation of his series The Twilight Zone.

Running for five seasons, the show had garnered critical acclaim and numerous awards, but the ratings were never more than middling, and the program had twice been axed and then revived.

Serling was born into a Jewish family on Christmas Day 1924 and grew up in Binghamton, New York.

In high school he earned a place on the debate team, wrote for and edited the school newspaper (establishing himself as a social activist), and spoke at his graduation.

Army enlistment followed in 1943.

In the military, Serling was awarded the Purple Heart and the Bronze Star, although his combat experiences left him with flashbacks and nightmares for the rest of his life.

“I was bitter about everything,” he once admitted. “I think I turned to writing to get it off my chest.”

At Antioch College in Ohio, he became involved in the school’s radio station, where he wrote, directed, and acted in several radio programs on campus.

But Serling could see that such stories were on the decline and being replaced by television dramas.

After earning a B.A. in literature at Antioch, he began writing for

WKRC-TV in twist or a macabre ending.

In October 1959 Cincinnati.

Serling always wanted to use the groundbreaking Serling soon The Twilight Zone as a vehicle for anthology series became a freelance important social commentaries. premiered on CBSwriter and began TV. Each half-hour In reality, though, he still had to churning out scripts frequently fight for creative control, episode included for major network TV as his scripts incorporated his views studies in fantasy, anthology shows. In on current events and social concerns, science fiction, 1955 Kraft Television such as war, racism, mass hysteria, suspense, and horror.

Theater broadcast The dramas dealt politics, and gender issues. his play Patterns.

And even though his messages with paranormal, Critics hailed it as futuristic, or otherwise were cleverly veiled within the fantasy “a creative triumph,” unusual or disturbing and science fiction parameters of the and Serling found show’s programs, they still managed events, with the himself inundated to make some viewers squirm. characters involved with requests for more As uncomfortable truths often will. having crossed over Publicity photo portrait of original stories. into the surreal Rod Serling for the premiere “Twilight Zone.” The Although Randal C. Hill’s heart lives Requiem for a of the television program Heavyweight for always-gripping stories in the past, the rest of him resides in The Twilight Zone.

Bandon, Ore. He can be reached at Playhouse 90 added usually featured a wryterhill@msn.com. to his growing and moral and either a highly regarded oeuvre. Encouraged by his success, he moved to California advertisement and became a full-time writer for television in 1957.

In the early years, TV sponsors and networks often became editors and censors; Serling was repeatedly forced to make changes whenever If you want a funeral with an expensive casket power people felt his content was too and embalming, go to a funeral home! controversial.

If you are interested in affordable cremation services, Many of his references to social we are the name to remember! issues were watered down or eliminated altogether, and he became No Embalming No Caskets frustrated by seeing his scripts shorn of meaningful elements. Eventually Serling decided to create his own show — The Twilight Zone.

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The Bookworm Sez

Talking about Death Won’t Kill You Terri Schlichenmeyer

home, but we spend very little time learning to Your mother can speak on just about any die — and that’s unfortunate. subject.

Family issues, money, old music, new Dying, she believes, is actually an important part of living, which is why you should have That technology, cooking, fashion … she’ll teach you Conversation. all day. Ask her about one certain topic, though, “Dying matters,” Kortes-Miller says, and until and her lips are sealed tight.

But with Talking About Death Won’t Kill You by a few decades ago, that was a given; people were much more comfortable with death and the Dr. Kathy Kortes-Miller, you can school Mom on a thing or two. things attached to it. Death was a social event, as it is today, but it seems now as though we’re afraid One year prior to her second go-around for a to have a discussion about it, lest we invite it.

Ph.D. program, Kathy Kortes-Miller received a The important thing is, everybody dies diagnosis of cancer, which altered her life and her sometime, so we may as well get comfortable with career path.

Naturally, she was fearful. She said aloud that.

Photo credit: Jessica L. Wyatt photography When having That Conversation, gently tease that she didn’t want to die, and her statement Talking About Death Won’t Kill You was brushed aside. Nobody would even discuss out whatever fears remain, and face them by

By Kathy Kortes-Miller becoming “death literate.” death, she says, and though she obviously lived, c. 2018, ECW Press Talk about “advance care planning” and the she wishes today that someone had taken time to 209 pages legacy you want. talk to her about her fears and the outcome she Know that family relations are complicated and might’ve had.

“Death education,” as she calls it, should never be ignored. We spend years that a proxy may absolutely be necessary.

Write down everything you want healthcare providers to know. getting an academic education, we spend months researching a car or a new Don’t be afraid to involve children, and don’t use euphemisms.

And finally, new technology gives a twist to something as old as life itself.

“I was amazed!

Know how to use it right.

Sounds I hadn’t You don’t have to be elderly to get a lot out of Talking About Death Won’t heard in years Kill You. You don’t even have to be dying to read this book. came back to me!”

Even if you’re hale and in the bloom of life, Dr. Kathy Kortes-Miller has — Don W., Sherman, TX plenty to teach you, including questions you can ask to dig deep into your own $ feelings on end-of-life matters, and a matter-of-fact passage on what happens For Less Than when we pass.

How can a hearing aid that costs less than $200 But this book isn’t only for consumers: physicians and healthcare workers are be every bit as good as one that sells for $2,250 or more? given attention here, too, because Kortes-Miller indicates a not-always-fulfilled The answer: Although tremendous strides have been made in need for That Conversation in hospitals and hospice situations.

Advanced Hearing Aid Technology, those cost reductions have not been passed on to you. Until now...

There are chapters here for parents and for caregivers, for adult children, for MDHearingAid® uses the same kind of Advanced Hearing Aid Technology incorporated into CEOs, and for work buddies. On the latter, Kortes-Miller helps employers to hearing aids that cost thousands more at a small fraction of the price. create a better, more compassionate workplace.

Over 300,000 satisfied MDHearingAid customers agree: High-quality, FDA-registered hearing This book probably isn’t anybody’s idea of a beach read, so grab it and grab aids don’t have to cost a fortune. The fact is, you don’t need to spend thousands for a opportunities for That Conversation. Talking About Death Won’t Kill You and, hearing aid. MDHearingAid is a medical-grade hearing aid offering sophistication and high performance, and works right out of the box with no time-consuming “adjustment” of course, neither will reading about it.

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The Bookworm is Terri Schlichenmeyer. Terri has been reading since she was 3 years old, and she never goes anywhere without a book. She lives on a hill in Wisconsin with two dogs and 14,000 books.

Did you know? is available online for anytime/anywhere reading!

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Social Security News

By John Johnston

2.8 Percent COLA Increase Announced for 2019

Social Security and Supplemental Security Income benefits for more than 67 million Americans will increase 2.8 percent in 2019, the Social Security Administration announced recently.

The 2.8 percent cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) will begin with benefits payable to more than 62 million Social Security beneficiaries in January 2019.

Increased payments to more than 8 million SSI beneficiaries will begin on Dec. 31, 2018.

The Social Security Act ties the annual COLA to the increase in the Consumer Price Index as determined by the Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Some other adjustments that take effect in January of each year are based on the increase in average

wages. Based on that increase, the maximum amount of earnings subject to the Social Security tax (taxable maximum) will increase to $132,900

mail in early December about their new benefit amount.

This year, for the first time, most people who receive Social Security

This year, for the first time, most people who receive Social Security payments will be able to view their COLA notice online through their My Social Security account.

from $128,400.

Social Security and SSI beneficiaries are normally notified by

Experience a warm welcome at The Hickman.

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payments will be able to view their COLA notice online through their My Social Security account, which

can be created and accessed at www. socialsecurity.gov/myaccount.

Information about Medicare changes for 2019, when announced, will be available at www.medicare. gov.

For Social Security beneficiaries receiving Medicare, Social Security will not be able to compute their new benefit amount until after the Medicare premium amounts for 2019 are announced.

Final 2019 benefit amounts will be communicated to beneficiaries in December through the mailed COLA notice and My Social Security’s Message Center.

To read more, visit www. socialsecurity.gov/cola.

John Johnston is a Social Security public affairs specialist.

OU R N EW B U IL DIN G IS N OW OP EN

When you’re here, you’re home.

PERSONAL CARE • RESPITE CARE • MEMORY CARE www.50plusLifePA.com

50plus LIFE u

November 2018

11

More Baby Boomers Turn to Reverse Mortgage According to a study recently released by Fannie Mae, there are more baby boomer retirees with mortgage debt than those retirees who were born between 1931 and 1935.

“Paying off the mortgage, once a widespread rite of passage for homeowners approaching retirement, has become less common in recent years,” wrote Patrick Simmons, director of strategic planning for Fannie Mae’s Economic & Strategic Research Group.

“The relatively high incidence of housing debt among boomers has the potential to strain their retirement finances,” Simmons wrote.

“Given that income typically declines in retirement, monthly mortgage payments could stretch the household budgets of boomers who exit the labor force without first extinguishing their housing debts.”

Many retirees turn to a reverse mortgage to eliminate their mortgage payments as they prepare to enter retirement.

While property taxes and homeowner’s insurance must continue

to be paid, the removal of an oftensubstantial mortgage payment allows homeowners to feel a sigh of relief as pressures of stretched financial obligations Rob Miller, President are eased.

Some are then able to delay taking Social Security until age 70, pay off high credit card debt, allow time for the retirement portfolio to grow, and find myriad other uses for the tax-free proceeds of a reverse mortgage.

Recent changes to the governmentinsured home equity conversion mortgage (reverse mortgage) program

by HUD have created a safer retirement tool for seniors to live a longer, happier retirement.

Call Rob Miller, NMLS No. 142151, president of Glendale Mortgage, NMLS No. 127720, and Reverse Mortgage Specialist, to learn more.

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Your Financial Partner Glendale Mortgage NMLS 127720 is an Equal Housing Lender. Some products and services may not be available in all states. Credit and collateral are subject to approval.

Terms and conditions apply. If you qualify we will reimburse you for the cost of the appraisal at closing. This is not a commitment to lend. Programs, rates, terms and conditions are subject to change without notice. Licensed by the Pennsylvania Department of Banking, State of Delaware Bank Commissioner, and the New Jersey Department of Banking and Insurance. www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org

50plus LIFE just earned 2 Media Awards!

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Fresh Fare

Fall for a Flavorful Cheese Board Some of the most beloved flavors are inspired during the fall, and there are few better ways to enjoy the season’s best than with a group of friends and family. Get ready to wow guests with seasonal treats that invite everyone to indulge in fall flavors.

Even adults can enjoy getting hands-on with their food when it comes to stacking up mouth-watering ingredients, and a fall party is a great opportunity to explore new ways to appreciate the flavor of savory pumpkin.

This recipe combines rich, creamy cheese with prosciutto and pumpkin for a medley of flavors and textures your guests will have a hard time believing are gluten-free. Non-GMO Crunchmaster Pumpkin Harvest Crackers combine real pumpkin and autumn spices with whole grains and flax seeds.

Serve these little delights on a cheese board and let guests mix and

on platter before serving, and place vinegar nearby.

Apple Pepita Stackers • 4 ounces apple butter • 1 bag Crunchmaster Pumpkin Harvest Crackers • 3 ounces toasted pepitas match the flavors as they wish. Then expand your offering with a dairyfree, vegan alternative and introduce another fall favorite like apple butter.

Explore more tips and recipes to help celebrate fall at www. crunchmaster.com.

Pumpkin Prosciutto Stackers • 2 ounces prosciutto • 1 ounce aged balsamic vinegar (syrupy consistency) • 4 ounces gorgonzola

• 4 ounces aged parmesan, shaved • 1 bag Crunchmaster Pumpkin Harvest Crackers Cut prosciutto into cracker-size pieces, about 1.5 inches in diameter.

Pour vinegar into small carafe or dish with serving spoon.

Layer gorgonzola, one to two pieces prosciutto, and one to two pieces shaved parmesan on one cracker.

Drizzle lightly with vinegar.

Plate remaining prosciutto, gorgonzola, parmesan, and crackers

• 12 slivers fresh sage Spread apple butter over one cracker and sprinkle with pinch of pepitas. Top with sage sliver.

For serving, scoop apple butter into small crock or serving vessel. Place pepitas and sage in serving dishes.

Place assembled stacker on platter with crackers. Add serving dishes, if space allows, or position around platter.

Family Features

Pet of the Month

Bruno Bruno is an adventurous 2-year-old with the most adorable ears.

He is outgoing and hopes for a family that enjoys going on walks or runs as much as he does.

Bruno just asks to meet any dogs or children before being adopted to ensure it’s a good match for everyone in the family.

For more information, contact Brandywine Valley SPCA, 1212 Phoenixville Pike, West Chester, at (484) 302-0865 or www. bvspca.org. www.50plusLifePA.com

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50plus LIFE u

November 2018

13

Got Diabetes? Get off the Couch and Work Your Core

By Sheri R. Colberg, Ph.D., FACSM

If you suffer from diabetes, you already know that staying fit greatly benefits your health.

Yet, many of the complications caused by diabetes can make it difficult to get the exercise you need; in fact, they can make a normal exercise routine difficult or even dangerous.

These complications don’t have to prevent you from doing safe and healthy exercise. You can still get a beneficial workout — minus the risks — by exercising your core.

Here are six of the 10 core exercises I recommend for people with diabetes from my new book with the American Diabetes Association, Diabetes & Keeping Fit for Dummies.

straight line from head to feet.

3. Hold this position without letting your hips drop for as long as you can.

4. Repeat steps one through three on the other side.

Switch back and forth between sides as many times as you can.

Bridging Remember to breathe throughout this exercise.

1. K eeping your shoulders on the floor, slowly raise your buttocks from the floor with your stomach tight and your lower back straight.

2. Gently lower your back to the ground.

3. Repeat steps one and two.

Pelvic Tilt 1. Lie on your back on the floor with your knees November is National Abdominal Squeezes bent and feet flat on the floor.

1. Put one of your hands against your upper Diabetes Month stomach and the other facing the other 2. Place your hands either by your sides or direction below your belly button. supporting your head.

2. Inhale to expand your stomach.

3. Tighten your bottom, forcing your lower back flat against the floor, and then relax.

3. Exhale and try to pull your abdominal muscles halfway toward your spine.

This is your starting position.

4. Repeat steps two and three as many times as you can.

4. Contract your abdominal muscles more deeply in toward your spine while Superhero Pose counting to two.

1. L ie on your stomach with your arms straight out in front of your head on Return to the starting position from step three for another count of two. the floor.

Work up to doing 100 repetitions per workout session.

2. R est your chin on the floor between your arms.

3. Keeping your arms and legs straight, simultaneously lift your feet and your Plank or Modified Plank hands as high off the floor as you can. Aim for at least 3 inches.

1. Start on the floor on your stomach and bend your elbows 90 degrees, resting 4. Hold that position (sort of a superhero flying position) for 10 seconds if your weight on your forearms. possible, and then relax your arms and legs back onto the floor.

2. Place your elbows directly beneath your shoulders and form a straight line Whether you’re still active or sedentary, working your core is a safe and from your head to your feet. smart way to improve your balance, keep you as fit as possible, and elevate your 3. Hold this position as long as you can. overall quality of life.

Repeat this exercise as many times as possible during each workout.

Side Planks 1. Start out on the floor on your side with your feet together and one forearm directly below your shoulder.

2. Contract your core muscles and raise your hips until your body is in a

Sheri R. Colberg, Ph.D., FACSM, is the author of Diabetes & Keeping Fit For Dummies® and 11 other books, 25 book chapters, and more than 300 articles.

Professor emerita of exercise science from Old Dominion University, she was honored with the 2016 American Diabetes Association Outstanding Educator in Diabetes Award. www.shericolberg.com, www.diabetesmotion.com

Where friends become family.

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• Great care when needed

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• Skilled Call (610) 444-2577 for more information or to schedule a personal tour.

Friends Home in Kennett | 147 West State Street | Kennett Square, PA 19348 Phone: (610) 444-2577 | Fax: (610) 444-2856 | www.friendshomeinkennett.org

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Credit: Readers.com

www.50plusLifePA.com

Nursing & Rehabilitation Centers Bethany Village – The Oaks

325 Wesley Drive • Mechanicsburg, PA 17055 (717) 766-0279 • www.bethanyvillage.org Number of Beds: 69 Rehabilitation Unit: Yes Alzheimer’s Unit: Yes Skilled Licensed Nursing: Yes Therapy: Speech, Occupational, Physical Long-Term Care: Yes Respite Care: Yes 24-Hour Medical Care: Yes Recreational Activities: Yes Scheduled Entertainment: Yes

Private Rooms Available: Yes Semi-Private Rooms Available: Yes Pet Visitation Allowed: Yes Beauty/Barber Shop: Yes Medicare: Yes Medicaid: Yes Accreditations/Affiliations: CARF; Eagle, LeadingAge PA Comments: Maplewood Assisted Living also available.

Conestoga View

900 East King Street • Lancaster, PA 17602 (717) 299-7850 • www.conestogaviewnursing.com Number of Beds: 436 Rehabilitation Unit: Yes Alzheimer’s Unit: Yes Skilled Licensed Nursing: Yes Therapy: Speech, Occupational, Respiratory, Physical Long-Term Care: Yes Respite Care: Yes

24-Hour Medical Care: Yes Recreational Activities: Yes Scheduled Entertainment: Yes Private Rooms Available: Yes Semi-Private Rooms Available: Yes Pet Visitation Allowed: Yes Beauty/Barber Shop: Yes Medicare: Yes Medicaid: Yes

Homeland Center

1901 North Fifth Street • Harrisburg, PA 17102-1598 (717) 221-7902 • www.homelandcenter.org Number of Beds: 95 Rehabilitation Unit: No Alzheimer’s Unit: Yes Skilled Licensed Nursing: Yes Therapy: Speech, Occupational, Physical Long-Term Care: Yes Short-Term Care: Yes Respite Care: Yes 24-Hour Medical Care: Yes Recreational Activities: Yes Scheduled Entertainment: Yes

Private Rooms Available: Yes Semi-Private Rooms Available: Yes Pet Visitation Allowed: Yes Beauty/Barber Shop: Yes Medicare: Yes Medicaid: Yes Accreditations/Affiliations: AAHSA, LeadingAge PA (PANPHA), NHPCO, PHN, HPNA Comments: A beautiful, full-service continuing care retirement community with a history of more than 150 years of exemplary care.

Claremont Nursing & Rehabilitation Center 1000 Claremont Road • Carlisle, PA 17013 (717) 243-2031 • www.ccpa.net/cnrc Number of Beds: 282 Rehabilitation Unit: Yes Alzheimer’s Unit: Yes Skilled Licensed Nursing: Yes Therapy: Speech, Occupational, Physical Long-Term Care: Yes Respite Care: Yes 24-Hour Medical Care: Yes Recreational Activities: Yes Scheduled Entertainment: Yes

Private Rooms Available: No Semi-Private Rooms Available: Yes Pet Visitation Allowed: Yes Beauty/Barber Shop: Yes Medicare: Yes Medicaid: Yes Comments: Featuring Transitions at Claremont, a dedicated, 39-bed, shortterm rehab unit. Claremont provides quality skilled nursing and secured dementia care.

Mennonite Home Communities

1520 Harrisburg Pike • Lancaster, PA 17601 (717) 393-1301 • www.mennonitehome.org Number of Beds: 188 Rehabilitation Unit: Yes Alzheimer’s Unit: Yes Skilled Licensed Nursing: Yes Therapy: Speech, Occupational, Physical Long-Term Care: Yes Respite Care: Yes 24-Hour Medical Care: Yes Recreational Activities: Yes Scheduled Entertainment: Yes

Private Rooms Available: Yes Semi-Private Rooms Available: Yes Pet Visitation Allowed: Yes Beauty/Barber Shop: Yes Medicare: Yes Medicaid: Yes Accreditations/Affiliations: Equal Housing, LeadingAge PA Comments: Person-centered care with reputation for compassion and excellence. Established in 1903. Respite care available w/minimum stay.

Transitions Healthcare – Gettysburg

595 Biglerville Road • Gettysburg, PA 17325 (717) 334-6249 • www.transitionshealthcarellc.com Number of Beds: 135 Rehabilitation Unit: Yes Alzheimer’s Unit: Yes Skilled Licensed Nursing: Yes Therapy: Speech, Occupational, Respiratory, Physical Long-Term Care: Yes Respite Care: Yes 24-Hour Medical Care: Yes Recreational Activities: Yes

Scheduled Entertainment: Yes Private Rooms Available: Yes Semi-Private Rooms Available: Yes Pet Visitation Allowed: Yes Beauty/Barber Shop: Yes Medicare: Yes Medicaid: Yes Accreditations/Affiliations: PHCA, PACA Comments: Fully staffed Transitions Healthcare employees in skilled nursing and sub-acute rehab. Tours are encouraged!

If you would like to be featured on this important page, please contact your marketing consultant or call (610) 675-6240.

This is not an all-inclusive list of agencies and providers. These advertisers are eager to provide additional information about their services.

Aid & Attendance Veterans’ Benefit Savvy Senior

Financial Aid for Family Caregivers Jim Miller

Dear Savvy Senior, Do you know of any resources that help family caregivers monetarily? I have to miss a lot of work to take care of my elderly mother and it’s financially stressing me.

– Stretched Thin Dear Stretched, Caring for an elder parent can be challenging in many ways, but it can be especially difficult financially if you have to miss work or quit your job to provide care.

Fortunately, there are a number of government programs, tax breaks, and other tips that may be able to help you monetarily while you care for your mother. Here are some options to explore.

disability, you can claim her as a dependent on your taxes and get a $500 tax credit.

For more information, go to the Interactive Tax Assistant page on the IRS’s website (www.irs.gov/ help/ita) and click on “Whom May I Claim as a Dependent?”

If you can’t claim her as a dependent, you may still be able to get a tax break if you’re paying more than half her living expenses including medical and longterm care costs, and they exceed 7.5 percent of your adjusted gross income.

You can include your own medical expenses in calculating the total. See IRS publication 502, Medical and Dental Expenses (www.irs.gov/pub/irspdf/p502.pdf) for details.

Long-term care insurance: If your mother has long-term care insurance, check whether it covers inhome care. Some policies permit family members to be paid, although they may exclude people who live in the same household.

State assistance: Most states have programs that help low-income seniors pay for in-home care services, including paying family members for care.

These programs — which go by various names, such as “cash and counseling” or “consumerNovember is National directed”— vary greatly depending on where you Paid caregiver leave and financial support: A Family Caregivers Month live and, in some states, on whether your mom is on small but growing number of companies offer paid Medicaid. caregiving leave as a way to recruit and retain their To find out what’s available in your state, contact your local Medicaid office. workforce. Check with your employer to see what, if any, benefits are available to you.

Veterans benefits: Veterans who need assistance with daily living activities Additionally, the Pennsylvania Caregiver Support Program aims to reduce can enroll in the Veteran-Directed Care program. stress on primary, informal, unpaid caregivers through a variety of potential This program, available through VA Medical Centers in 40 states, as well as benefits, such as financial assistance for services, supplies, and assistive devices. in Washington, D.C., and Puerto Rico, provides as much as $2,000 a month, To find out if you qualify, visit the Pennsylvania Department of Aging’s which can be used to pay family members for home care. website (www.aging.pa.gov) or call your county’s Area Agency on Aging.

Visit the “Home and Community-Based Services” section at www.va.gov/ geriatrics for information.

Family funds: If your mother has some savings or other assets, discuss the Also available to wartime veterans and their surviving spouses is a benefit possibility of her paying you for the care you provide. called Aid and Attendance, which helps pay for in-home care as well as assisted If she agrees, consult with an elder law attorney about drafting a shortliving and nursing home care. This benefit can also be used to pay family written contract that details the terms of the work and payment arrangements, caregivers. so everyone involved knows what to expect.

To be eligible, your mother must need assistance with daily living activities, such as bathing, dressing, or going to the bathroom.

You should also check BenefitsCheckUp (www.benefitscheckup.org), a free, Changes to income and asset limits — including a new 36-month lookconfidential web tool that can help you search for financial assistance programs back period on asset transfers — went into effect Oct. 18. To learn more about that your mom or you may be eligible for. eligibility requirements, go to www.vets.gov/pension.

Tax breaks: If you pay at least half of your mom’s yearly expenses, and her gross income is below $4,050 (in 2017) not counting her Social Security or

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

www.50plusLifePA.com

Aid & Attendance Veterans’ Benefit Can I Get Aid and Attendance or Housebound Benefits?

If you need help with your daily activities, or you’re housebound, you may qualify for Aid and Attendance or Housebound allowances in addition to your pension benefits.

Veterans and surviving spouses may qualify for Aid and Attendance if you get a VA pension and you meet at least one of the requirements listed below.

• You need another person to help you perform daily activities, like bathing, feeding, and dressing • You have to stay in bed — or spend a large portion of the day in bed — because of illness • You are a patient in a nursing home due to the loss of mental or physical abilities related to a disability • Your eyesight is limited (even with glasses or contact lenses, you have only 5/200 or less in both eyes or concentric contraction of the visual field to 5 degrees or less) You may qualify for Housebound benefits if you get a VA pension and you spend most of your time in your home because of a permanent disability (a disability that doesn’t go away).

Note: You can’t get Aid and Attendance benefits and Housebound benefits at the same time.

To apply for these benefits, veterans and surviving spouses need an application (downloadable at www.vets.gov/pension/aid-attendancehousebound) as well as the following information:

No Pie at Original Thanksgiving The first Thanksgiving didn’t feature pies or cakes, because the Plymouth pilgrims had no ovens and a limited supply of sugar.

But it may have included cranberries, which Native Americans used in a variety of foods (including pemmican, made from berries, dried venison, and melted fat) as well as for medicinal purposes.

So what was the “original” Thanksgiving really like? In November 1621, William Bradford, the governor of the plantation, organized a feast www.50plusLifePA.com

for colonists and their neighbors, the Wampanoag tribe, to celebrate a successful harvest.

The harvest had thrived thanks in part to Squanto, a native of the Patuxet tribe who had learned English as a slave before returning to his native land.

Squanto taught the pilgrims how to grow corn, catch eels and fish, and avoid poisonous plants in the surrounding forest, as well as helping them to forge a relationship with the Wampanoag and its chief, Massasoit.

• Evidence, like a doctor’s report, that shows you need Aid and Attendance or Housebound care, or VA Form 21-2680 (Examination for Housebound Status or Permanent Need for Regular Aid and Attendance), which your doctor can fill out • Details about what you normally do during the day and how you get places • Details that help show what kind of illness, injury, or mental or physical disability affects your ability to perform activities, like bathing, on your own In Pennsylvania, the application and relevant information can be mailed to the Department of Veterans Affairs, Claims Intake Center, Attention: Philadelphia Pension Center, P.O. Box 5206, Janesville, WI 53547-5206.

Or, you may apply in person by bringing your information to a regional benefit office near you.

Source: www.vets.gov

Stories of ordinary men and women called to perform extraordinary military service.

From 1999–2016, writer and World War II veteran Col. Robert D. Wilcox preserved the firsthand wartime experiences of more than 200 veterans through Salute to a Veteran, his monthly column featured in 50plus LIFE. Now, for the first time, 50 of those stories— selected by Wilcox himself—are available to own in this soft-cover book.

Simply complete and mail this form with your payment to the address below to order Salute to Our Veterans.

On-Line Publishers • 3912 Abel Drive, Columbia, PA 17512 Name_ _______________________________________________________ Address_ ______________________________________________________ City_______________________________ State_ ____ Zip_ ______________ Phone_ _____________________ Email______________________________ Number of copies_ ______ (Please include $20.80 for each copy) Credit card #______________________________________ Exp. date________ Signature of cardholder_________________________________CVV #________

Or send a check made payable to On-Line Publishers, Inc. You can also order online at www.50plusLIFEpa.com!

50plus LIFE u

November 2018

17

Calendar of Events

Chester County

Support Groups Free and open to the public

Senior Center Activities

Mondays (except holidays), 10-11:30 a.m.

Sunshine Memory Café United Methodist Church of West Chester 129 S. High St., West Chester (610) 349-3401 adean0413@gmail.com

Nov. 13 and 27, 6:30-8 p.m.

Bereavement Support Group Jennersville Hospital Conference Room B 1015 W. Baltimore Pike, West Grove (610) 998-1700, ext. 226

Nov. 6, 1:30 p.m.

Grief Support Group Phoenixville Senior Center 153 Church St., Phoenixville (610) 327-7216

Nov. 14, 1:30 p.m.

Family Caregiver Support Group Sarah Care 425 Technology Drive, Suite 200, Malvern (610) 251-0801

Coatesville Area Senior Center (610) 383-6900 250 Harmony St., Coatesville www.coatesvilleseniorcenter.org Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, 10:30-11:15 a.m. – Going Fit Exercise Program Nov. 1 and 15, 11 a.m. to noon – Veterans Coffee Club Nov. 14 and 28, 1-2 p.m. – Bingo

Nov. 6 and 20, 6:30-8 p.m.

Bereavement Support Group Brandywine Hospital Conference Room 2N 201 Reeceville Road, Coatesville (610) 998-1700, ext. 226

Nov. 14, 7-8:30 p.m.

Hearing Loss Support Group Christ Community Church 1190 Phoenixville Pike, West Chester (610) 444-445 www.hearinglosschesco.com

Nov. 7, 6 p.m.

Memory Loss and Dementia Support Group Sunrise Assisted Living of Paoli 324 W. Lancaster Ave., Malvern (610) 251-9994

Nov. 20, 6 p.m.

Family Caregiver Support Group Sunrise of Westtown 501 Skiles Blvd., West Chester (610) 399-4464

Nov. 12 and 26, 10:30 a.m. to noon Caregiver Coffee Break/Support Group Active Day of Exton 201 Sharp Lane, Exton (610) 363-8044

Nov. 28, 6 p.m.

Living with Cancer Support Group Paoli Hospital Cancer Center 255 W. Lancaster Ave., Paoli (484) 565-1253

Nov. 13 and 27, 5-6:30 p.m.

Bereavement Support Group Main Line Unitarian Church 816 S. Valley Forge Road, Devon (610) 585-6604 phoenixbereavement@yahoo.com Nondenominational; all are welcome.

If you have an event you would like to include, please email information to mjoyce@onlinepub.com for consideration.

Downingtown Senior Center – (610) 269-3939 983 E. Lancaster Ave., Downingtown www.downingtownseniors.org Mondays and Wednesdays, 10 a.m. – Balance and Flexibility Wednesdays, 10-11 a.m. – Photo Shoot Hour Fridays, 10 a.m. – Strength and Balance Great Valley Senior Center – (610) 889-2121 47 Church Road, Malvern Thursdays, 10 a.m. – Cards Nov. 14, 11 a.m. – M eal and a Message: Senior Tax Law Changes Nov. 28, 5 p.m. – S enior Supper and Presentation: Neurology/Memory Issues Kennett Area Senior Center – (610) 444-4819 427 S. Walnut St., Kennett Square www.kennettseniorcenter.org Oxford Senior Center – (610) 932-5244 12 E. Locust St., Oxford – www.oxfordseniors.org Wednesdays, 8:30-11:30 a.m. – Paint Class Phoenixville Area Senior Center – (610) 935-1515 153 Church St., Phoenixville www.phoenixvilleseniorcenter.org West Chester Area Senior Center – (610) 431-4242 530 E. Union St., West Chester www.wcseniors.org Thursdays, 1 p.m. – WCASC Chorus Submit senior center events to mjoyce@onlinepub.com.

Community Programs Free and open to the public Nov. 1, 7:30 p.m.

Compassionate Friends Valley Forge Chapter Good Shepherd Lutheran Church 132 E. Valley Forge Road, King of Prussia (484) 919-0820 www.tcfvalleyforge.org

Nov. 20, noon AARP Valley Forge Chapter Meeting St. Luke Evangelical Lutheran Church 203 N. Valley Forge Road, Devon (610) 647-1823

Library Programs Avon Grove Library, 117 Rose Hill Ave., West Grove, (610) 869-2004 Nov. 3, 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. – Presentation: Living Life as a Joyful Being Nov. 5 and 19, 3-4:30 p.m. – Sit and Knit Nov. 15, 6:30-7:30 p.m. – Book Club

Nov. 3 and 17, 5-10 p.m.

Bingo Night Marine Corps League Detachment 430 Chestnut St., Downingtown (610) 429-8174

Downingtown Library, 330 E. Lancaster Ave., Downingtown, (610) 269-2741 Nov. 13, 6:30 p.m. – Film Forum Nov. 20, 10-11 a.m. – Book Walkers Nov. 20, 6:30 p.m. – Crafters Maker Space

Nov. 6, 11:30 a.m.

West Chester University Retirees Luncheon For restaurant location, please email darsie@ verizon.net

Easttown Library, 720 First Ave., Berwyn, (610) 644-0138 Nov. 11, 2 p.m. – L augh for the Health of It! Laughter Yoga

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Paoli Library, 18 Darby Road, Paoli, (610) 296-7996 Mystery Book Club – Call for dates/times

www.50plusLifePA.com

Puzzle Page

CROSSWORD

Solutions for all puzzles can be found on page 20 SUDOKU

WORD SEARCH

Colors

Across 1. French cleric 5. Inquire 8. Bathroom item 13. Cellphone items 14. Remote button 15. Red fluorescent dye 16. Actor Stoltz 17. Pressing need?

18. Wept 19. Tibetan monk 20. Shopping place 21. Horse color 22. Plain writing 24. Gymnast’s goal

25. Some movie roles 28. Bullfighter 32. Family card game 33. Venomous Aussie snake 36. Opportune 37. Bungle 39. Tank 40. Sour sort 41. Brainstorm 42. Morning starter 44. African antelope 45. After root and wine 47. Movie preview

49. Mormons, initially 50. Western resort lake 52. Expressed 54. Busy place 55. Country bumpkin 59. Yule melody 60. Panache 61. Persia, today 62. Wide open 63. Large butte 64. Exchange premium 65. Court wear 66. LAX setting 67. Permits

Down 1. Biblical shepherd 2. Vamp Theda 3. Fedora feature 4. Slip away 5. Mystiques 6. Squirrel away 7. County in SE England 8. Password, usually 9. Heart attack 10. Atlas section 11. Property claim 12. Dissolve 14. Silver wattle 23. Zuckerman Unbound novelist

24. Crayola color 25. Brick-shaped 26. Battery terminal 27. Traveler’s stop 28. Chess ending 29. Fender mishaps 30. Offer one’s 2 cents 31. Happen again 34. Currier’s partner 35. Norm 38. Muse of poetry 40. Disney goldfish 42. Accounting entries (abbr.)

43. Goddess of wisdom

46. Confuses 48. Forward pass 50. Scrabble pieces 51. “Cease!” to a salt 52. Palm starch 53. Oman man 54. Cord fiber 56. Exhort 57. Can of worms?

58. Hazzard County lawman 59. Beetle, e.g.

Your ad could be here on this popular page!

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November 2018

19

Such is Life

Reminders, Notes, and Calendars Saralee Perel

I have an attitude when I’m told that nothing can be done. It just makes me all the more determined to find answers. What else was I going to do? Give up? Why would I? We went to three more neurologists until we finally found one who actually asked to hear from me. He said, “How can I know what’s going on when the patient can’t remember?”

He specializes in Bob’s diagnosis. Along with cognitive memory impairment, he has primary progressive aphasia, which essentially involves word loss.

The doctor recommended medication that has helped tremendously. He was the one who referred us to Lee. Yet, this doctor’s greatest gift to us? Hope.

You know how you often can’t remember what you did last week? Or even just yesterday? There’s a cure for that. With Lee’s advice, Bob keeps a calendar in which, daily, he writes down what he’s done. He reviews it again and again.

There aren’t many people I know who can remember things they did last month. But my sweet husband can.

Bob used to avoid socializing for fear that he’d lose common words. When inevitably that would happen, he’d so sadly and desperately look to me for help.

He felt humiliation and shame and embarrassment.

Now, he still looks to me for help, but you know what? He could not care less. We’ve learned that if anyone thinks less of him for not knowing a word, then they’re probably not tolerant of others as well and certainly not the kind of person we’d want as a valuable, trusted friend.

We’ve learned that acceptance doesn’t mean hopelessness. We’ve learned that inevitable doesn’t have a definite date. Inevitable doesn’t mean giving up.

You know what it means? It means it’s fight-back time!

Bob never did come up with the word “camel” that day. But that doesn’t matter. As long as he can say, “I love you,” then he’s remembered everything that’s important.

Award-winning columnist Saralee Perel can be reached at sperel@saraleeperel.com or via her website: www.SaraleePerel.com.

Puzzles shown on page 19

Puzzle Solutions

“What’s the word for the thing we use every day that has a monitor and a keyboard?” I asked my husband, Bob. That question was not a test. It was part of a wordfinding teaching program that Lee, Bob’s speech therapist, has taught us to practice.

“A computer,” Bob said. Elated that he got it right, we gave each other a high five.

“Want to keep going?” I asked.

My husband is so very brave. “Sure,” he said.

It stuns me that we’re at this stage.

“OK,” I said, showing him a picture of a camel.

“What is this called?”

He thought for a moment. His shoulders drooped when he said, “I don’t know.”

Lee taught us about clues. She said, “The words are still there. It’s like a well, and the word is at the bottom. You just need a line to pull it up.”

So I said to Bob, “It starts with a C.” I waited until he asked me for another clue. “It lives in the desert.”

Still nothing registered.

Ten years ago Bob began having memory problems, the most obvious of which was word-finding.

Our first neurologist was a smug know-it-all. Bob passed the neuropsych paper and pencil testing just fine. As I began to speak of the varied problems I’ve noticed at home, the doctor wouldn’t hear a word of it.

And so, nothing was done.

The second neurologist sped through the appointment. He also wouldn’t/ couldn’t allow any time for me to speak. He ordered an MRI. The results were seemingly normal, though we were told differently, eventually, by a doctor who had the time to examine the films more closely.

And so, nothing was done.

One day it made me cry (silently) when I heard Bob on the phone, stuck on a word I could tell would be “blizzard.” I quickly wrote it on paper, and then rushed the note to him. There just had to be a better way than this.

In the middle of the night, a vicious beast I call “the future” hovers directly over me.

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Melinda’s Garden

Melinda Myers

Holiday Gifts that Keep on Giving

Make giftorchids and are giving easy quite striking with unique with maroongreen gifts striped green that provide petals. The weeks and, narrow, in some chartreuse, cases, months lily-like and years blossoms of of beauty.

Evergreen Plus, gifting eventually easy-care turn apple blooming green, making plants is an it stand out experiential among the red Photo credit Gardener’s Supply Company gift that’s amaryllises Grand Amaryllis Trio GrandDiva ideal for and poinsettias everyone, of the season. especially that person on your list who Dress up your amaryllis gift has everything. by planting the bulb in a pretty Gardeners as well as practical container, setting it on stones in a family members and friends will enjoy glass hurricane, or combining it with the dual purpose the Christmas rose spring-flowering bulbs, such as tulips, (Hellebore) provides. This widespread grape hyacinths, and crocuses.

European holiday plant is gaining Provide some aromatherapy, flavor, popularity in holiday celebrations here and beauty with fragrant flowers and in the U.S. herbs. Lily-of-the-valley may be a Recipients will enjoy up to two bully in the garden, but it’s a fragrant months of blossoms indoors when beauty sure to brighten a winter day grown in a cool, bright location. Once when planted in a container and the danger of frost has passed, it can enjoyed indoors. be moved outdoors into a full or The calming fragrance of Spanish partially shaded spot in the garden for lavender can be enjoyed fresh or the years of added beauty. stems and flowers snipped, dried, and Even non-gardeners will be added to bouquets and sachets. fascinated by the amaryllis as its Rosemary’s flavor makes it a perfect beauty erupts from the bulb. Everyone gift for the foodies on your list. And will eagerly watch for the bulb to everyone, including non-cooks, will sprout, for flower stems to quickly enjoy its fragrance. Grow it indoors in grow, and for it to eventually produce a cool location with morning sun or several large, trumpet-shaped blooms. under artificial lights.

Make it easy and fun for all with Make this the year you give the a waxed amaryllis bulb. Dipped perfect gift: one that’s unique and in colorful wax, these freestanding is sure to provide instant smiles and bulbs need no soil or water. Just set weeks or months of fragrance and the waxed bulb in a space where beauty. they can be enjoyed, and watch the magic happen as the amaryllis breaks Melinda Myers is the author of more through the wax coating and grows than 20 gardening books and host of The Great Courses’ How to Grow into a colorful specimen.

Impress avid gardeners with unique Anything DVD series. Her website, www. melindamyers.com, offers gardening tips varieties, such as Papillio Butterfly and videos. amaryllis. The flowers resemble www.50plusLifePA.com

Please, join us!

This combined event is FREE for veterans of all ages, active military, and their families.

Nov. 1, 2018 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Farm and Home Center 1383 Arcadia Road, Lancaster

NEW LOCATION!

At the Expo

Veterans Benefits Community Services Products and Services Available Support/Assistance Programs Education/Training Services

At the Job Fair

Employers Job Counseling Workshops/Seminars Resume Writing Assistance Principal Sponsor:

Sponsored by: Blue Ridge Communications • Fulton Financial Corporation Disabled American Veterans • LCTV • Paul Smith’s College Pennsylvania State Headquarters VFW WFYL • WHTM ABC27

Sponsor & Exhibitor Opportunities Available

www.veteransexpo.com (717) 285-1350 www.olpevents.com

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November 2018

21

Bill Would Train Retailers, Financial Institutions to Spot Fraudulent Transactions Recently, U.S. Sen. Bob Casey (D-PA), ranking member of the U.S. Senate Special Committee on Aging, and Sen. Jerry Moran (R-KS), chairman of the Senate Committee on Commerce Subcommittee on Consumer Protection, introduced the Senior Scams Prevention Act (S. 3522).

“Far too many older Americans have been targeted by scam artists. These criminals threaten legal action against seniors or loved ones if ‘payment’ is not made immediately through a wire transfer or gift card,” said Casey.

“The Senior Scams Prevention Act would help stop a payment before it is

ever made so that seniors don’t lose one more penny to a fraud or scam.”

The bipartisan Senior Scams Prevention Act would create a federal advisory council to develop educational materials for retailers, financial institutions, and wire transfer companies to use to train employees on how to spot a scam.

Often times, unbeknownst to employees of retail stores, fraudsters ask senior victims to send “payment” or “gifts” through gift cards, which are purchased at various retail locations.

please see BILL page 23

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Dear Pharmacist

Suzy Cohen

You Will Never Look at Pumpkin Pie the Same

The other day I was eating a banana and decided to dip it in some fresh pumpkin butter that I had bought. At no other time of year would this “pumpkin” thought-seed ever float through my head.

With the holiday season upon us, and pumpkin pie everywhere, allow me to share what I know about these medicinal and delicious spices. You’ll never look at pumpkin pie the same way again after reading this.

Here’s how they heal you: Cinnamon Cinnamon is thought to aid in regulating blood sugar in people with hyperglycemia, pre-diabetes, and diabetes. It works by blocking digestive enzymes, such as alpha-glucosidase, sucrose, and pancreatic amylase, which blunt the amount of sugar released into your bloodstream.

Cinnamon also contains MHCP (methylhydroxychalcone polymer), which acts similar to your own insulin by shuttling sugar out of your bloodstream and into your cells.

Clove We call it “clove” because none of us want to call it by its botanical name: syzygium aromaticum! If you love chai tea or masala chai, you obviously like the taste of clove because it is an integral part of chai recipes.

If you have dental pain, you can put a drop of clove essential oil in water and have sips. You can also put the oil onto a cotton swab and dab your achy tooth.

Aside from toothaches and gum problems, clove can help with many respiratory diseases, candida infections, headaches, and throat infections.

Some men report that it improves their libido, which makes sense because clove is known to enhance testosterone, at least in animal studies.

Nutmeg Feeling blue around the holidays? Nutmeg is your antidepressant spice and can be sprinkled on coffee, hot chocolate, pumpkin pie, and sweet potato dishes.

Nutmeg extract was given to mice for three days, and it reduced signs of depression. The researchers concluded it was so profound, it was virtually comparable to shots of antidepressant drugs, namely imipramine (Tofranil) and fluoxetine (Prozac).

BILL from page 22 Scammers may also request money to be sent to them via wire transfer or require the victim to pay by credit card or through other means.

This legislation is endorsed by Consumers Union, Best Buy, Consumer Federation of America, Green Dot Corp., MoneyGram, National Consumers League, National Retail Federation, Retail Industry Leaders Association, Target, Walmart, and Western Union.

If you or a loved one receives a suspicious call, hang up the phone immediately and contact the Aging Committee’s toll-free Fraud Hotline at (855) 303-9470. www.50plusLifePA.com

Another interesting, little-known fact is that nutmeg can help mice with lung inflammation and asthma symptoms due to its high content of another compound called macelignan.

You know how you have been trained to breathe in relaxing aromas of lavender in order to sleep at night?

Well, inhaling nutmeg scent is actually better!

According to a study in The International Journal of Molecular Science, “Nutmeg oil afforded a greater inhibitory effect than did lavender oil.”

The reason it works is because nutmeg is a CNS (central nervous system) tonic that contains a potent anxiolytic called 4-terpineol. It increases activity of GABA in your body and dampens down glutamate.

I need to caution those of you in the benzo community who are still struggling to recover. If you are in PAWS (post acute withdrawal syndrome), then avoid nutmeg until your receptors up-regulate and heal. They will do that if you hold on, and please hold on! The topic of benzos and PAWS is covered in some of my other articles at my website.

This information is not intended to diagnose, prevent, or treat your disease. For more information about the author, visit SuzyCohen.com

Premier Orthopaedics is delighted to welcome Dr. Scott Ritterman to our medical staff

Glenn E. Lipton, M.D.

James T. Guille, M.D.

Scott A. Ritterman, M.D. Nikos K. Pavlides, M.D.

Linda P. D’Andrea, M.D.

Dr. Ritterman specializes in joint replacement surgery and is trained in all aspects of fracture care, including OPERATIVE and NON-OPERATIVE TREATMENT as well as sports medicine.

At Premier Orthopaedics we take great pride in delivering the highest quality of care in the community across a full range of services, including: • Joint replacement • Sports medicine • Spine surgery • Hand surgery • Foot surgery • Medicare approved in-office injections for joint pain/osteoarthritis • Bracing and assistive devices • Pediatric, adult, and geriatric sub-specialties within the group

* APPOINTMENTS WITHIN 24 HOURS *

(610) 792-9292

Brandywine Hospital 213 Reeceville Road Suite #14 Coatesville, PA 10320 Lanchester Medical Center 381 Gap Newport Pike Gap, PA 17527

Gateway Medical 142 Wallace Ave. Downingtown, PA 19335

www.premierortho.com Premier Orthopaedics Brandywine Division 1561 Medical Drive Pottstown, PA 19464

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Premier Orthopaedics 119 E. Uwchlan Ave. Suite #100 Exton, PA 19341

November 2018

23

We had a patient whose hip pain was keeping her from doing what she loved to do.

She came to see our orthopedic team in York at WellSpan Surgery & Rehabilitation Hospital.

As an advanced Total Joint Program, we use techniques proven to deliver better results.

Plus care coordinators manage everything, including follow-ups with primary care physicians.

Four weeks after our patient’s hip replacement, she went out dancing with her husband.

Providing exceptional care close to home.

That’s the WellSpan Way. And, I believe, the way it should be.

Judith Kopinski, MD Total Joint Specialist WellSpan Surgery & Rehabilitation Hospital

WellSpanSpecialists.org/Ortho