August2016BuCSN

Butler County Senior News

August 2016 Volume 11, Number 1

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Having difficulty taking your medication due to cognition changes?

These devices and strategies can help.

By Kaitlyn Rankin, OTS Master of Occupational Therapy Program University of Pittsburgh For Butler County Senior News More than 65 percent of older adults take three or more prescription medications per day, and keeping track of it all can be stressful. Cognitive changes as we age—including dementia, mild cognitive impairment, side effects of medications or an illness, depression, and metabolic

and/or endocrine problems—may cause an older adult to forget to take their pills or that they’ve already taken their dose.

Taking the right dose at the right time is important.

To reduce or avoid difficulty with managing one’s medication, an individual can use the following adaptive strategies or devices to increase their safety and independence.

Create a schedule: At the start of each month or when a new pill is introduced, a weekly schedule in the form of a chart may be made listing all the medications at the correct times for each day. Create one daily chart if every day is the same.

If more than one chart is necessary, consider using different colored markers to highlight the differences.

2016 King Features Syndicate, Inc.

Continued on page 6

Publisher’s Corner

Live LIFE…At Home Owner/Publisher: Lynn Webster Editor: Gina Mazza Art Director: Burnfield Consulting Sales Executive: Wallace Webster Photographer: Chuck LeClaire

Read our feature story to learn more about devices and strategies that can help in taking and remembering medications. Turn to page 8 to read about the extended deadline on the Pennsylvania property tax/rent rebate program.

Have a wonderful August, everyone.

Lynn Webster

– A Partnership in Caring – LIFE offers comprehensive medical care, adult day services and homecare to help older adults, age 55 and older, live at home. Services include all medical care, prescription coverage, physical therapy, transportation and more.

Contact us for assistance in determining your eligibility for the program. You may qualify and not even realize it.

231 W. Diamond Street Butler, PA 16001

724-287-LIFE (5433) Call 711 for TTY Relay Services www.lutheranseniorlife.org/LIFE A Partnership of Lutheran SeniorLife and Butler Health System

August 2016 • Butler County Senior News

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Contributing Writers: Brittany Buzzelli Gina Mazza Intern: Kara Boyle Proofreader: Jeff Makkos Volume 11, Number 1 Published monthly by Pittsburgh Senior News, Inc. for Butler County Senior News P. O. Box 11126 Pittsburgh, PA 15237

Visit our website at www.pittsburghseniornews.com

(412) 367-2522 Visit our website at www.pittsburghseniornews.com or email us at pghseniornews@icloud.com

View the most recent issues of • Butler County Senior News • Pittsburgh Senior News • Beaver County Senior News •Butler County Senior Resource Guide • Allegheny County Senior Resource Guide •Beaver County Senior Resource Guide

Crossword Puzzle Answer (See page 15)

Printing Company: Knepper Press

Live Independently…Not Alone Medical help at the push of a button.

Get medical help in an emergency at the push of a button with the Personal Emergency Response System (PERS) from Vector Security®.

Butler County Senior News is distributed monthly in the Butler County area. Copy­ right 2016 by Butler County Senior News. All rights reserved.

Reproduction of any part of this publication without written permission from the publisher is prohibited. All advertisement in Butler County Senior News is subject to the approval of the publisher.

Publication of advertising herein does not necessarily constitute endorsement.

Simply wear the system on your wrist or neck and press the “help” button to be connected to a trained operator 24 hours a day.

Call now for more information and a free consultation…because living alone doesn’t mean being alone.

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In Memory of John A. Hogan, Sr. Carmella M. Hogan Michael J. Hogan, Sr. Wayne Hogan

* The Zelienople-Harmony Farmers Market will be held from 3:30 to 7 p.m. Mondays through September at Zelienople Park, East Beaver St., Zelienople. The market features a variety of vendors from local farmers to small area businesses. Call (724) 473-0017.

Estate Planning Essentials When a senior loved one ends up in a nursing home for rehabilitation, the entire family is justifiably concerned about who will pay for that care, because cost of care can easily be $250 per day, and with rehabilitation services, much more.

* The annual Portersville Steam Show will be held August 4 to 7 at Portersville Steam Show Grounds, 1512 Perry Hwy., Portersville. The Portersville Steam Show provides a large variety of activities for the whole family. There will be a vintage village, saw mill, cider press, gas engines, oil field equipment, farm animals, train rides, steam engines, flea market, crafts, food, kids’ pedal tractor pulling, tractors, large traction engines, ice cream, tractor pulls and a steam building. Call (724) 285-7038 or visit portersvillesteamshow.org. * The 18th annual Regatta at Lake Arthur will take place August 6 and 7 at Moraine State Park, 225 Pleasant Valley Rd., Portersville. Enjoy live entertainment, food, craft and business vendors, community sailing and races, children’s activities, crafts and games, native butterfly release, mountain bike trail ride and more. Call (724) 687-0707 or visit lakearthurregatta.org. * The 68th annual Butler Farm Show will take place August 8 to 13 at Butler Farm Show Grounds, 625 Evans City Rd., Butler.

The event showcases the county’s farming community with farming exhibits, tractor pulls, crafts, rides, food and demonstrations. Call (724) 482-4000 or visit butlerfarmshow.com. * The Rod Fathers will hold a car cruise at the American Legion, 150 Memorial Legion Lane, Lyndora, August 13.

There will be dash plaques, DJ, food, crafters, auction, 50/50, T-shirts and more. There will also be a Toys for Tots collection and participants are asked to bring an unwrapped toy (no stuffed animals please) and recieve a food discount coupon.

Call (724) 321-8521 or visit therodfathers.com. * The North Washington Rodeo will take place August 16 to 20 at the North Washington Rodeo Arena, 2225 Oneida Valley Rd., Petrolia. Cost is $14 at the gate or $12 in advance for adults and $6 for children ages 4 to 12 at the gate or $5 in advance. Call (724) 894-2064 or (724) 679-5270; or visit nwvfd.com/rodeo.html. * Come out for the 12 annual Grandparents Race, a 10 mile, 5K and 1 mile running or walking race for athletes ages 3 and older, at 7:30 a.m. August 20 at Passavant Retirement Community, Main Street, Zelienople. This event was created in memory of some amazing grandparents and raises money for the Passavant Retirement Community. Cost is $30 per person. Prizes will be awarded. Call (724) 321-4265 or visit getfitfamilies.com/10th-annual-grandparents-run/. BCSN

Timothy Sechler Partner at Heritage Elder Law

The first thing to know, is that if the patient has had a three day hospital stay as an admitted patient prior to entering the nursing home, Medicare will pay for the stay and the rehabilitation, subject to limits.

Here is how it works.

The first 20 days are paid 100%. The next 80 days are paid partially, but there is an expensive co-pay per day. For many people, their supplemental insurance covers that copay.

What happens if you successfully rehab and go home, and end up back in the hospital a couple of months later?

The 100 day clock will reset and you will get another 100 days if there has been a 60 day gap between leaving the nursing home and the subsequent hospital admission. This is not unlimited, as there is a lifetime limit, but that is rarely a limit that anyone reaches.

Alternatively, what happens if you are unable to return home by the end of the 100 days? At this point, Medicare quits paying and the patient must pay privately for care.

With the average cost of care exceeding $8,900 per month in Pennsylvania, many families have trouble making ends meet.

Most families in this situation should consult with an elder law attorney to understand how Medicaid benefits can be accessed to pay for care. The Medicaid rules are complex and require considerable planning.

To find out more about this topic and other legal issues affecting seniors, attend a FREE EDUCATIONAL WORKSHOP at the Heritage Elder Law & Estate Planning, LLO, Mars M aat y 61 8p.m. a t or 6 pat.m.

Office on August 10 or 17, the M a y 5 at Butler Office August 17 at 2 p.m. To RSVP or to 6 pout . m.about other upcoming workshops, call find (724) 841-0024 or visit HeritageElderLaw.com.

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August 2016 • Butler County Senior News

Entertainments and Events

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“Extra Help” lowers Medicare prescription drug costs

M

any older adults and people with disabilities on Medicare struggle with prescription drug costs, especially if they take expensive medications or hit the “donut hole” at some point during the year. The good news is that help is available with Medicare prescription drug costs. Individuals can apply for this help at any time during the year, and the application generally does not require sending in any documentation to prove one’s information.

To qualify for Extra Help with Medicare Prescription Drug Costs, individuals must meet income and resource guidelines that can change each year. In 2016, the income limit is $1,485/month and the resources limit is $13,640 for a single person. For married couples, the income limit is $2,003/month and the resource limit is $27,250. Resources do not include someone’s primary residence, motor vehicles, life insurance, burial spaces or plots, or some pre-paid burial accounts.

Since not all income or resources count,

people are encouraged to apply even if they appear to be over these limits.

purple colored paper to notify these individuals about their Extra Help.

The Social Security Administration handles the applications for Extra Help. Individuals can apply online (ssa.gov/prescriptionhelp), by phone (800-772-1213), or by mail (must be an original paper application and not a photocopy). As mentioned earlier, people are not required to send in documentation with their application.

If Social Security needs any additional information, they will contact the applicant to request this. All applicants will get a written notice telling them whether they qualify for Extra Help, how much help they will get, and when the Extra Help starts. Those who are denied Extra Help can appeal.

There are two levels of Extra Help: full help and partial help. Those with the lowest income and resources qualify for full help, as do people on both Medicare and Medicaid. Others qualify for partial help. Extra Help lowers or eliminates the person’s Part D premium and annual deductible, limits their copays at the pharmacy, and eliminates the donut hole. Extra Help can save people thousands of dollars a year in prescription drug costs.

Please note: Medicare beneficiaries who get any help from Medicaid (even if it is just the help with the Medicare Part B premium) automatically qualify for Extra Help and do not need to apply. Medicare sends out letters on

Anyone who needs help applying for Extra Help or who wants more information about Extra Help is encouraged to call APPRISE at (800) 783-7067. Individuals denied Extra Help can call the Pennsylvania Health Law Project at (800) 274-3258 for help. BCSN This article was written by the PA Health Law Project, which provides free legal help to low-income seniors. Call PHLP’s Helpline at (800) 274-3258 or visit phlp.org.

Just Ask for VNA Skilled Short & Long-Term Rehabilitation

It’s your right to choose the home health and hospice provider you prefer.

Ask for VNA.

724.352.9445 724-282-6806 Toll-free 877-862-6659 www.lutheranseniorlife.org 154 Hindman Road, Butler, PA 16001

Saxonburg, PA

www.saxonyhealthcenter.org CALL US FOR A PRIVATE CONSULTATION QCF/Saxony Health Center, LLC d/b/a Saxony Health Center. We subscribe to a non-discrimination policy

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August 2016 • Butler County Senior News

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If you are eligible for both Medicare and Medicaid, it’s time you take a look at Gateway Health. As an experienced Dual Special Needs Plan (DSNP), we know how to help people just like you.

YEAR ROUND ENROLLMENT | www.medicareassured.com Gateway HealthSM offers HMO plans with a Medicare contract. Some Gateway Health plans have a contract with Medicaid in the states where they are offered. Enrollment in these plans depends on contract renewal. This information is not a complete description of benefits. Contact the plan for more information. Limitations, copayments and restrictions may apply. Benefits may change on January 1 of each year. Y0097_738 Accepted

August 2016 • Butler County Senior News

Designed to meet members’ individual and holistic needs, Gateway Health Medicare Assured SM plans offer high quality, affordable health care coverage and so much more:

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Having difficulty taking your medication due to cognition changes? These devices and strategies can help.

Create and maintain a routine. Everyone benefits from good habits and routines. To avoid medication errors, create a routine for taking medications.

Continued from page 1 If the individual is unable to complete this themselves, a caregiver, friend or family member may help.

Create and maintain a routine. Everyone benefits from good habits and routines. To avoid medication errors, create a routine for taking medications. For example, medications may all be stored in the same location and taken while seated at the dining room table. A healthy habit might be to take medications following a specific activity, such as after eating a meal, brushing teeth or before putting on pajamas.

Use an Rx Timer Cap. This device can be found online at rxtimercap.com at a price of two for $14.95. The timer cap counts down the hours and minutes since the container was last opened.

Rx Timer Cap.

Talking alarm clock.

Use a talking alarm clock. This type of device may be set for up to four daily alarms that alert you when it is time to take your medication. I can be purchased at Sears for $33.91, on Amazon for $33.88, or at medcentersystems.com for $39.95.

August 2016 • Butler County Senior News

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Get a weekly or 31-day pill organizer.

These organizers are usually a clear or light-colored plastic and can be purchased for under $10 at pharmacies and dollar stores. Organizers come in many different combinations so it is important to purchase one that matches the medication schedule.

For example, if an older adult takes medication twice a day, a pill organizer with two rows for AM and PM might be the ideal model. The 31-day pill organizer allows you to organize pills for 31 days in separate, daily pill boxes. In each pill box there are four daily compartments: morning, noon,

31-day pill organizer.

Automatic pill dispenser.

evening and bedtime. All of the daily boxes begin with the green side sticking up and the red side down. After the pills have been taken for the day, the daily boxes are to be placed with the red end visible. Amazon carries this MedCenter device for $33.96.

Use an automatic pill dispenser. This device will ensure that only the correct medicine is taken and be a helpful reminder to take pills, as well. The dispenser allows up to four daily doses to be scheduled for a month at a time and can be found at Sears for $74.95.

Amazon also carries several versions of dispensers and the price varies depending on the type of features you would like. One option on Amazon is the LiveFine Automatic Pill Dispenser for $55.

The items above may improve the success of medication management for older adults and will provide the opportunity for adults to remain independent and confident in caring for themselves. BCSN Occupational therapists help individuals do the things they want, need and are expected to do, like managing their medications. An occupational therapist can help you determine what adaptive equipment will be best in order for you to carry out your daily activities safely and independently. If you are experiencing difficulty with managing your medications or any other activities throughout your day, talk to your doctor about receiving a referral for occupational therapy.

Stem Cell Therapy and Willie Nelson: Rebels by Their Own Rules

By Matt Reinstetle For Butler County Senior News In the world of country music, few people march to the beat or their own drum - or better yet, guitar - quite like Willie Nelson.

Nelson, 82, has been active in the country music scene since the Willie Nelson’s rebel mid 1950s and continues to tour. mentality led him to finding In the 1970s, country music was alternatives to traditional confined to a set of standards standards both inside the known as the Nashville Sound, recording studio and for which featured clean-cut and treating his lung disease. formulaic stylings. Nelson, and other country artists, ushered in a new wave of country music known as Outlaw Country, which didn’t play by the rules.

That mentality led him to not being afraid to go against traditional standards inside and outside the recording studio.

In November, Nelson said in an interview with The Washington Post that he had undergone a stem cell therapy treatment to help his emphysema and pneumonia, brought on by years of cigarette smoking.

The Lung Institute uses autologous stem cells, also known as “adult” stem cells, from the patient’s own body. The stem cells are extracted from the body, separated and returned intravenously.

The cells then travel through the heart and into the lungs where they are trapped in what the Lung Institute calls the “pulmonary trap.” Once in the trap, the stem cells promote healing.

Since opening their first clinic in 2013, the Lung Institute has treated more than 2,000 people with lung disease. A recent study produced by the clinic found that 82 percent of their patients saw an improvement in quality of life.

One of those people is Richard L., of Fort. McCoy, Fla., whose last name is abbreviated for medical privacy. Richard visited the Lung Institute in 2015 and noticed improvements with his chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) symptoms.

“I couldn’t even go inside a store without using portable oxygen,” Richard said. “Now, half of the time I just leave it in the car.”

When the traditional way of thinking is no longer working, it sometimes takes a rebel mentality to shake up an industry for the better. BCSN

The Lung Institute operates stem cell therapy clinics in Tampa; Pittsburgh; Dallas; Scottsdale, Arizona and Nashville, Tennessee.

If you or a loved one suffer from a chronic lung disease, the specialists at the Lung Institute may be able to help. You can contact the Lung Institute at (855) 978-5767 or visit lunginstitute.com/ SeniorNews to find out if you qualify for these new treatments.

YOUR CELLS. YOUR LUNGS. YOUR BREATH. COPD

■

FOR PATIENTS WITH: Pulmonary Fibrosis ■ Emphysema

Treat Your Lung Disease Naturally with Stem Cell Therapy Stem cell therapy is a minimally invasive, outpatient option that can restore lung function and improve quality of life.

Call us today to find out if you qualify for treatment.

(855) 978-5767

LungInstitute.com/SeniorNews NATIONAL LOCATIONS | PITTSBURGH LOCATION: 100 Northpointe Circle Ste. 103, Seven Fields, PA 16046

August 2016 • Butler County Senior News

Stem cell therapy has been a popular topic in the medical field as people with chronic lung disease look for alternative treatment options. One of the companies emerging as a leader in the industry is the Lung Institute (www.LungInstitute.com), which operates a clinic in downtown Tampa.

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Butler County Area Agency on Aging

Senior Express

Pennsylvania property tax/rent rebate program deadline extended

By Brittany Buzzelli Community Liaison/APPRISE Coordinator Butler County Area Agency on Aging For Butler County Senior News

A

pplication forms for the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue Property Tax/Rent Rebate Program have been extended for eligible residents to begin claiming on property taxes or rent paid in 2015.

The rebate program benefits eligible Pennsylvanian’s age 65 and older; widows and widowers age 50 and older; and disabled persons over the age of 18. The income limit for the program is $35,000 annually for homeowners and up to $15,000 annually for renters, with half of social security income excluded.

The maximum standard rebate is $650, but supplemental rebates for qualifying homeowners can boost rebates to $975.

Property Tax/Rent Rebate Income Eligibility: Homeowners: Income

Maximum Standard Rebate

$0 to $8,000 $650 $8,001 to $15,000 $500 $15,001 to $18,000 $300 $18,001 to $35,000 $250

August 2016 • Butler County Senior News

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Renters:

$0 to $8,000

$650

$8,001 to $15,000 $500 Each resident who prepared and filed a paper application last year, and did not utilize computer software to do so, should have received a 2015 application form by February 28. Renters who prepared claims last year using computer software rather than the PA-1000 booklet received letters by mail reminding the resident to apply for a 2015 rebate, and providing them with two copies of the PA-1000 Rent Certificate, and Rent Rebate application.

Applications are also available online at Revenue.state.pa.us or by calling (888) 222-9190.

August 2016 • Butler County Senior News

Older adults must reapply for rebates every year because rebates are based on annual income and property taxes or rent paid each year.

It costs nothing to apply for a rebate. Application forms and assistance are available at no charge from the Department of Revenue district officers, state legislators’ offices, and locally through the Butler County Area Agency on Aging.

The Butler County Area Agency on Aging provides application assistance at the Area Agency on Aging offices located at 111 Sunnyview Circle in Butler. It is recommended that interested applicants make an appointment ahead of time by calling the Butler County Area Agency on Aging directly at (724) 282-3008.

The deadline to apply for a rebate on property taxes or rent paid in 2015 is December 31, 2016. Rebates will be processed and distributed up to one month after the application has been filed.

More than $297 million in property tax and rent rebates have been sent to more than 587,000 homeowners and renters across the state for taxes and rent paid in 2014. The department wants all eligible Pennsylvanians to apply for and receive rebates through this program, but cautions that fraudulent or falsified rebate claims will result in a denial of rebate.

The Property Tax/Rent Rebate program is supported by the Pennsylvania Lottery and revenue from slots gaming. Since the program’s 1971 inception, older adults and adults with disabilities have received $5.4 billion in property tax and rent rebates. BCSN Applying for Property Tax/Rent Rebate is easy. Call (888) 222-9190 or visit Revenue.state.pa.us. Pick up an application at your local legislator’s office or at the Butler County Area Agency on Aging, 111 Sunnyview Circle, Suite 101, Butler, PA 16001.

Butler County Area Agency on Aging

Senior Express

LEND A HAND

THE BUTLER COUNTY APPRISE PROGRAM The Butler County Area Agency on Aging is seeking new volunteers for the APPRISE Program. APPRISE is the State Health Insurance Assistance Program. APPRISE provides free counseling for people with Medicare in Pennsylvania.

An APPRISE counselor helps with: understanding Medicare benefits and services; helping people make informed choices about selecting insurance, such as a Medigap policy, Medicare Advantage Plan or Part D prescription drug plan; helping beneficiaries apply for financial assistance programs; explaining the Medicare Summary Notice, and assisting with the appeal process and paperwork, just to name a few. APPRISE also has volunteers who assist with data entry, public speaking and more.

If you’re looking for an opportunity to give back to your community, make friends, or expand your knowledge of Medicare, APPRISE is the program for you! Help us take some of the confusion out of Medicare! If you would like to learn more about the APPRISE Program and the rewarding volunteer opportunities that we offer, please contact Brittany Buzzelli at the Butler County Area Agency on Aging at 724-282-3008, or Bbuzzell@co.butler.pa.us Locally, the Butler County Area Agency on Aging is hosting a FREE, three-day APPRISE training for interested volunteers in August at the Butler Library. Call today for more information!

August 2016 • Butler County Senior News

August 2016 • Butler County Senior News

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Butler County Area Agency on Aging

August 2016 • Butler County Senior News

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August 2016 • Butler County Senior News

Senior Express

Butler County Area Agency on Aging

Senior Express

Senior Center events

_ Chicora Senior Center, lower level of Moose Hall, 117 West Slippery Rock St., offers the following events: bingo at 10 a.m. and birthday celebration August 11; leadership meeting at 10 a.m. August 16; picnic in the park at 10 a.m.

August 24; bingo at 10:30 a.m. August 25; table sale from 9:30 to 2:30 p.m. August 31. The center is open from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday. Call (724) 445-2551. _ Cranberry Senior Center, Municipal Building, Rochester Rd., offers the following events: home health and hospice program at 11 a.m. August 4; game night from 4 to 7 p.m.

August 9. Cost is $5 and includes food; birthday celebration August 11; 500 card party at 12:30 p.m. August 16; Cranberry EMS certification and review of hands on CPR at 11 a.m.

August 18; leadership meeting at 10:30 a.m. and table sale from 9 a.m. to noon August 25; and wellness Wednesday at 8:30 a.m. August 31. The center is open from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Call (724) 772-6086. _ Evans City Senior Center, 426 East Main St., offers the following events: leadership meeting at 1 p.m and birthday celebration August 11; white elephant bingo at 1 p.m.

August 15; hydration informational and root beer floats at 1 p.m. August 17; Gateway Clipper evening sunset cruise August 26. Bus leaves at 5:45 p.m.; and wellness Wednesday breakfast at 10 a.m. August 31. The center is open from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday, Wednesday and Thursday.

Call (724) 538-9414.

_ Mars Senior Center, Penn Mar Plaza, Gilkey Dr., offers the following activities: senior health concerns program and coffee cafe at 1 p.m. August 8; birthday celebration at noon August 11; picnic beach party at noon August 16; low back program at 11:15 a.m. August 18; leadership meeting at 1 p.m. August 23; Klondike bar sale at 12:30 p.m. August 25.

Cost is $1 each; tell the story and bring your favorite photo to share at 1 p.m. August 29; and wellness Wednesday at 9 a.m.

August 31. The center is open from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Friday Call (724) 625-4466. _ Mount Chestnut Senior Center, Presbyterian Church, 727 Old Route 422, will offer the following events: Bible study at 10:15 a.m. and leadership meeting at 12:45 p.m. August 1; blood pressure screening at 11:30 a.m. and 5 wishes program at 12:30 p.m. August 4; Wii bowling August 8; birthday celebration August 11; Bible study at 10:15 a.m. August 15; root beer floats at noon August 18; book club at 10:15 a.m. and Butler Senior Center Day August 22; and wellness Wednesday at 10 a.m. August 29. The center is open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Mondays and Thursdays. Call (724) 282-6006. _ Slippery Rock Senior Center, Township Building, 155 Branchton Rd., will offer the following events: pancake and sausage breakfast at 9 a.m. August 10. Cost is $2; birthday celebration at 12:30 p.m. August 11; dog days of August party with hot dogs and ice cream August 18; leadership council meeting at 12:30 p.m. August 25; and wellness Wednesday at 9 a.m. August 31. The center is open from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Tuesday through Thursday. Call (724) 794-6440. _ Southeast Senior Center, Winfield Township Firehall, Brose Rd., offers the following upcoming events: nickel bingo at 10:30 a.m. August 2, 4, 16 and 18; chair yoga at 10 a.m. August 9; Po-Ke-No at 10:30 a.m. August 9 11, 23, 25; birthday celebration August 11; ball toss at 10 a.m August 23; blood pressure screening at 11 a.m. August 25; and wellness Wednesday at 9 a.m. August 30. The center is open from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Call (724) 352-2036. _ West Sunbury Senior Center, West Sunbury Presbyterian Church, hours are from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Wednesday and Friday. Lunches are provided. Call (724) 637-2959. BCSN

August 2016 • Butler County Senior News

August 2016 • Butler County Senior News

_ Butler Senior Center, 10 Austin Ave., (located in Tanglewood Senior Center), Lyndora, offers the following events: 500 card party at noon August 3. Cost is $2.50; prize bingo at 10 a.m. August 5; Yardzee on the patio with root beer floats at noon August 8; leadership meeting at 11:30 a.m. and birthday celebration August 11; evening card party with snacks from 5:30 to 9 p.m. August 16. Cost is $5; bus trip to Johnstown August 17; spend the day at Mt. Chestnut Senior Center August 18; and picnic at Memorial Park, Miller Pavilion August 19; tie-dye on the patio at noon August 30. Bring a white T-shirt; and wellness Wednesday at 9 a.m. August 31.

Please note: the center will be closed August 17 to 19. The center is open from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Call (724) 285-5392.

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Butler County Area Agency on Aging

August Menu for senior centers

Monday, August 1: Chicken, peas and carrots, Italian vegetable medley, applesauce, cookie.

Tuesday, August 2: Turkey salad sandwich, pasta salad, three bean salad, fruit.

Wednesday, August 3: Baked Swiss steak, whipped potatoes, green beans, vanilla pudding.

Thursday, August 4: Barbecue pulled pork sandwich, redskin potatoes, coleslaw, fruit.

Friday, August 5: Lasagna, tossed salad, applesauce.

Monday, August 8: Barbecue chicken breast, baked potato, corn, mandarin salad.

Tuesday, August 9: Vegetable lasagna, mixed greens, fruit.

Wednesday, August 10: Hamburger, macaroni salad, pickled beets, fruit.

Thursday, August 11, Birthday menu: Stuffed chicken breast, whipped potatoes, green beans, fruit, cupcake.

Friday, August 12: Sweet sausage sandwich, potatoes, carrots, vanilla ice cream.

The Butler County Area Agency on Aging

Serving you: About the Area Agency on Aging The Butler County Area Agency on Aging (AAoA) is a community service agency for older adults and has operated in Butler County since 1984. The Area Agency on Aging administers programs and manages services for Butler County residents who are 60 years of age or older. Agency programs and services are designed to serve approximately 38,000 older consumers who call Butler County home.

Butler County Commissioners Leslie Osche, Republican Kimberly Geyer, Republican Kevin Boozel, Democrat Area Agency on Aging Administrator: Beth A. Herold, RN, BSN, MBA How may we help you?

Monday, August 15: Meatloaf, parsley potatoes, vegetable medley, applesauce.

• Community Services for Older Adults and their families

Tuesday, August 16: Ham and Swiss sandwich, broccoli salad, melon, gelatin.

• Home and Community Based Services

Wednesday, August 17: Turkey, noodles, carrots, brownie.

• PDA Waiver Services

Thursday, August 18: Sweet and sour chicken breast, rice, broccoli medley, fruit, fortune cookie.

Friday, August 19: Pepperoni pizza, mixed greens, peaches.

August 2016 • Butler County Senior News

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Senior Express

Monday, August 22: Grilled chicken sandwich, potato salad, mixed fruit salad.

Tuesday, August 23: Hot dog with sauerkraut, steak fries, coleslaw, fruit.

Wednesday, August 24: Pasta and meatballs, tossed salad, apple slices.

Thursday, August 25: Chicken breast, rice pilaf, vegetable medley, fruit.

Friday, August 26: Tuna salad sandwich, tomato soup, three bean salad, cottage cheese, fruit.

Monday, August 29: Salisbury steak, Italian potatoes, vegetable medley, lemon fluff.

Tuesday, August 30: Italian hoagie, Parmesan red potatoes, garden salad, fruit.

Wednesday, August 31: Chicken salad sandwich, cheesy potato soup, fruit, cookie. BCSN August 2016 • Butler County Senior News

Access to Services • Information and Referral • Assessment • Care Management

For more information, call or visit our office at Sunnyview Complex 111 Sunnyview Circle, Suite 101 Butler, PA 16001 Office Hours: Monday through Friday: 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Phone: (724) 282-3008

(888) 367-2434 Website: www.co.butler.pa.us/butler Email: aaainfo@co.butler.pa.us

Prostate Cancer: What You Need to Know

W

hat is prostate cancer?

The prostate gland is an important part of the male reproductive system. It is located between the rectum and urinary bladder and can be felt during a digital rectal exam. It is a small organ that is about the size of a walnut and produces semen, which is the fluid that carries sperm during sexual intercourse. Its size increases with age and its growth is fueled primarily by the male hormone testosterone.

What are the symptoms of prostate cancer? In its early stages, no symptoms might be noticeable. As the disease progresses, some changes might occur. These include frequent urination, an urgent need to urinate and more than usual nighttime urination. Since these same symptoms can occur with other diseases, you should always seek the advice of a physician.

Who can get prostate cancer? Prostate cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in men. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), about one out of five men or 20 percent will get this disease. There is a greater chance of developing prostate cancer as a man gets older. This disease also has a higher prevalence among African American men.

As a man matures, usually after age 50, the prostate continues to grow.

When this happens, the prostate tissue can press on the urethra, which is the thin tube that empties urine from the bladder. This can

lead to problems passing urine.

This condition is known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), but it’s important to know that this condition is not cancer, nor does it lead to prostate cancer.

If you are suspected of having prostate cancer, then a small needle biopsy of the prostate is taken to confirm a cancer diagnosis. Generally, prostate cancer is considered a low grade cancer because it grows slowly in the body. Treatments are determined on the severity of the cancer and the age of the individual.

What is a prostate cancer screening? There are two screening tools used to test for prostate cancer.

The first is a digital rectal exam, whereby the doctor inserts a finger inside the rectum to feel for any abnormalities in size and shape of the organ. The second screening test is a Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) blood test, which looks for elevated proteins in the blood produced by the prostate gland. Men should speak with their doctors about the benefits of these tests.

Unfortunately, the tests aren’t perfect – especially the PSA. Sometimes there are false positives and false negatives which may require additional testing such as an ultrasound or a needle biopsy. The research is still out for determining best screening methods and if in fact the screening

methods are useful. Two years ago, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force conducted a comprehensive review of the medical evidence and concluded that the benefits of PSAbased screening for prostate cancer do not outweigh the expected risks.

Discuss with your doctor if prostate cancer screening is appropriate for you.

What happens if I have prostate cancer?

Because prostate cancer generally grows very slowly, most physicians decide to take the “watch and wait” approach. This is decided because some of the treatments are radical and do more harm than good. Radiation burns the skin and surgery can sever sensitive nerves responsible for urinary and sexual functions, which may lead to incontinence or impotence. Hormone therapy is also a possible option. If you are diagnosed with prostate cancer, depending on age and stage of cancer, your doctor will help you decide which treatment is best for you.

Finally, while cancer is not always preventable, the best thing for you to do is to stay healthy by eating a well-balanced diet, get regular exercise and make sure yearly exams and other health screenings and vaccinations are up to date. Simple lifestyle changes such as drinking less alcohol and quitting smoking can also help reduce your risk. By knowing your body, lab test results and vital signs, you can stay ahead of prostate cancer as much as possible. BCSN More information on prostate health is available at cancer.gov.

August 2016 • Butler County Senior News

By Ronald O. Monah, M.D., Senior Medical Director, Gateway HealthSM For Butler County Senior News

13

2016 Summer Olypmic Trivia Circle the correct answer for a chance to win $30 cash.

1. Which of the following is not an Olympics sport?

A. Gymnastics; B. Basketball; C. Bocce Ball.

6. What is the “ball” in Badminton?

A. Shuttlecock; B. Birdie; C. Both

2. Where are the Olympics being held this year?

A. Athens; B. Rio de Janeiro; C. London.

7. How often are the summer games held?

A. Every 2 years; B. Every 4 years; C. Every 6 years.

3. Which of the following is not an Olympic event?

A. Vault; B. Balance Beam; C. Cartwheel Races.

8. How many rings are in the Olympic logo?

A. 3; B. 5; C. 7.

4. Where did the Olympics originate?

A. London; B. Ancient Greece; C. Olympia, Washington.

9. What song plays when a US athlete wins a gold medal?

A. The Star-Spangled Banner; B. God Bless America; C. America the Beautiful.

5. In which Olympic event does Michael Phelps compete?

A. Swimming; B. Tennis; C. Track and Field.

10. Which sport will make its debut?

A. Rugby Sevens; B. Bowling; C. Netball.

To enter, mail your answers to Butler County Senior News Contest, P.O. Box 11126, Pittsburgh, PA 15237. One entry per person. Correct entries will be eligible for our drawing. One winner will be drawn. Entries must be received by the 15th of this month. Answers will be published in the next edition of Butler County Senior News.

Name________________________________________________ Address______________________________________________ _____________________________________________________ Phone____________________________Age________________

Congratulations to Loretta Young who won last month’s contest. The answers were: 1. Anemone; 2. Chrysanthemum; 3. Sunflower; 4. Amaryllis; 5. Daffodil; 6. Hydrangea; 7. Tulip; 8. Hyacinth; 9. Lilac; 10. Rose; 11. Orchid; 12. Peony; 13. Freesia; 14. Iris; 15. Carnation; 16. Alstroemeria.

Ambulance Service • Wheelchair Van Service

August 2016 • Butler County Senior News

14

Care You Can Count On

• Our wheelchair van service, Butler Assist Coach, currently operates 10 vans providing transport to and from hospitals, doctor’s appointments, nursing homes, and private events (i.e. funerals, weddings, birthdays, etc.)

Serving the Community Since 1967

• Our Assist Coach is available to individuals: with or without their own wheelchairs; with stairs or other obstacles at their residence; and those needing extra assistance in and out of their wheelchairs.

• BAS also provides emergency and non-emergency ambulance transports to sick and injured patients.

• We operate 10 ambulances from 3 stations, serving the community 24 hours a day.

• Reduced rates are available for members.

Butler Ambulance Service • 106 First Street Butler, PA 16001 • (724) 283-4385

Crossword Puzzle answer on page 2

CATERPILLAR FLY GRASSHOPPER LADYBUG

MOSQUITO MOTH TERMITE WASP

Aging Waiver Service Coordination Choose the local option!

Center for Community Resources' Butler based Service Coordinators are responsive, caring and committed to helping you maintain your independence.

Conveniently located in the Sunnyview Complex.

121 Sunnyview Circle, Suite 131 Butler, PA 16001

724-431-3748 www.ccrinfo.org

ACROSS 1 “Psst!”

4 Branches 9 Comic DeLuise 12 GIs’ entertainers 13 Red as – 14 Cell “messenger” 15 Summer pie flavor 17 Longing 18 Aachen article 19 Like a meadow 21 Fluffy clouds 24 Former frosh 25 Suffix for pay 26 Cutting tool 28 Must-haves 31 Erstwhile acorns 33 Neither mate 35 Plumbing problem 36 Prepare to pray 38 Director Craven 40 Sony rival 41 Intend 43 Influential one 45 Cinco de Mayo party 47 Spasm 48 Mess up 49 “Firework” singer 54 Sailor 55 Paris school 56 Nemesis 57 Whatever 58 Velocity 59 Melbourne suburb

DOWN 1 Center 2 Immigrant’s subj.

3 Thee 4 File stickers 5 Spaniard, e.g.

6 Mal de – 7 Arctic floaters 8 “Sophie’s Choice” author 9 Preprandial drink 10 Till bills 11 Oodles 16 College URL ender 20 Lacked originality 21 Diner employee 22 – Bator 23 Celebrate 29 “Monopoly” cubes 30 Practice pugilism 32 Beholds 34 Make over 37 Deli pancakes 39 Stole 42 Civil rights org.

44 High card 45 Greek cheese 46 Persia, today 50 Water tester 51 D.C. stadium initials 52 Fish eggs 53 Evergreen tree

August 2016 • Butler County Senior News

©King Features

ANT BEE BEETLE BUTTERFLY

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