/i20111013090549243

the

time life of your

Fall 2011

Your guide to mature living, health, finances and lifestyle This publication is sponsored by:

OPKC Olympic Peninsula Kidney Centers

Peninsula Hearing, Inc.

Page 2

Time of Your Life

Harrison HealthPartners Cardiothoracic Surgery was the only heart surgery group in Washington state to receive the Society of Thoracic Surgeons’ highest rating—three stars—based on performance, complications, and quality measures from July 1, 2009 to July 30, 2010, as reported in the September 2011 edition of Consumer Reports® magazine. harrisonmedical.org/heart

• Fall 2011

• Fall 2011

Making a difference

Volunteerism

Time of Your Life

kitsap county volunteer services 614 Division St., MS-4 Port Orchard , WA. 98366 (360) 337-4650 (360) 337-7052 (fax)

Page 3

Retirees make a big difference as volunteers

By Erin Jennings Retirees may not work 9 to 5 in an office, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t busy.

“I’m working all the time,” volunteer Bill Scarvie said. “I just don’t get paid.”

“Or take vacation,” volunteer Nancy Quitslund added.

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, there are about 33,400 people age 65 or older living in Kitsap.

And many of those retirees trade in their free time in favor of working hard to make a difference in their communities.

Karen Carson, program director for Interfaith Volunteer Caregivers on Bainbridge Island, estimates 75-80 percent of her volunteer list is made up of retired individuals.

IVC volunteers help with a wide variety of tasks, such as driving people to doctor’s appointments, reading to the blind, gardening, or simply providing companionship.

Carson said she’s impressed with how much time people are willing to give — volunteers’ donate more than 700 hours per month for IVC. According to Carson, IVC is really about being present. “We might be the only person the care receivers have seen in a week or a month. It’s all about listening,” she said.

“We all need to be listened to and understood.”

IVC even helped find a gin rummy partner for an elderly woman after her card-playing partner moved away. She was lost without her friend. Now a volunteer comes in once a week and plays cards —making a difference in both their lives. “Almost all of our volunteers tell me they get more out of the experience than they give,” Carson said.

Scarvie uses his heart as a guide when deciding where to volunteer his time.

“Someone suggested that you think about the things that break your heart,” he said. “And that’s where you find your passion.”

For Scarvie, his passion is shared between organizing annual events such as a public reading of the United Nations Declaration of Human Rights, a Holocaust Remembrance Day and a communitywide, multi-faith Thanksgiving Service.

“Almost all of our volunteers tell me they get more out of the experience than they give.”

NORTH KITSAP FISHLINE volunteers help staff members meet the needs of 5,000 people a month. From left, Lynn Ziegler, operations manager Garvin Tootle, Colleen Smith and Gwen Rose, all of Poulsbo. richard walker / july 2011

referrals, English as a Second Language classes, and information on local laws and regulations. Keve also participates in a lunch-

— Karen Carson, program director for Interfaith Volunteer Caregivers

“We know there are differences [in faith beliefs] but I think we have far more in common than we do differences. One of those things in common is gratitude and that’s what attracted me to this service,” Scarvie said.

Since 1996, one of Quitslund’s passions has been the annual CROP walk on Bainbridge Island. The walk raises money to combat hunger on a global and local level. Her time is also dedicated in working with the Bainbridge Ometepe Sister Islands Association, which helps develop relationships and cultural exchanges with Bainbridge Island and an island in Nicaragua. Quitslund helps facilitate visits between the two islands.

Kathryn Keve donates her time at the Kitsap Immigrant Assistance Center in Bremerton. Among many things, the center provides medical and legal

buddy program with elementary students who need a little extra support.

So what motivates volunteers?

plans welfare future hope

I KNOW THE

I HAVE FOR YOU...

...PLANS FOR

...TO GIVE YOU A

AND A

JEREMIAH 29:11

spacious independent waterfront apartments 60 year legacy serving seniors wetlands and beach trails washers and dryers assisted living services on site

“When things you’ve worked on come to fruition, they are energizing,” Quitslund said. “It takes a lot out of you to put them together, but you get a little bit more back in.” She finds extreme satisfaction in doing volunteer work in areas that are important to her.

After all their work organizing and implementing various volunteer projects, how do volunteers make sure events don’t peter out? Rather than having the event tied to one specific volunteer, the trick is to have a coordinating team, Quitslund said. That way, if someone moves away, or is no longer available to help, the team can carry the event See VOLUNTEERS, Page 19

Page 4

Time of Your Life

• Fall 2011

“I have worn dentures for 27 years and have never had such attentive care.

The dentures are wonderful!”

Anderson Denture Patient

Anderson Dental and Denture has been helping people smile since 1995

If time, quality & gentle care are important to you. . . then we are here to serve Bruce Anderson and Wanda Anderson

• Crowns & Bridges • Cosmetic & General Dentistry • Extractions • Emergency Care

• • • •

Dentures / Partials Denture Repair Relines (while you wait) Denturist & Dentist on Staff

FREE*

New patient consultation and oral exam *X-Rays excluded.

Must present this ad to receive.

Most Insurances Accepted

19410 8th Ave. N.E., Suite 102, Poulsbo • 360-779-1566 • 800-990-9116 • www.andersondenturedental.com

• Fall 2011

Volunteer profile

Maxine Rae Healy

Time of Your Life

Page 5

Inspiring others to get involved

By JOHNNY WALKER KINGSTON — Maxine Rae Healy, 82, has deep roots and a lot of family in greater Kingston: Five adult children, 13 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren live nearby. But in addition to a close and loving family, Healy is an active community leader with a reputation for inspiring others.

“Maxine is an example of the woman I have always wanted to be,” said Linda Fyfe, executive director of the Kingston Chamber of Commerce. “Her wanderlust has taken her all over the world. She always offers sound advice and a soft shoulder. She certainly is an inspirational woman.”

The history and choices in Healy’s life are not just a warm reminder of days past, but are an important lesson for younger families today.

Her story gives insight into how and why she is so active.

Healy, the granddaughter of south Kingston pioneers, describes growing up around a family of hardworking pioneers in land and industry.

Her grandparents, Peter and Anna Earlandson, were immigrants from Sweden and developed 110 acres along South Kingston Road circa 1906.

Healy’s parents, Hilma Chrstine Earlandson and Gilbert Raymond Cook, met on a vacation steamship running the West Coast from San Francisco around 1920.

After they married, Cook set up shop running the first flying school on Boeing Field to serve Alaska bush pilots.

Growing up in West Seattle and graduating from West Seattle High School, Healy was often around industrious people.

Her mother died when she was 10. That and World War II presented changing and influential times for Healy.

Electing to live with her

Maxine Rae Healy, 82, volunteered at the Blanche Grey Garden Show at Richard Gordon Elementary School in Kingston.

Healy was president of the Kingston Garden Club in 2010. johnny walker

grandmother in Seattle instead of following her father as he worked to support the war effort, Healy recalls how she developed an increasing

strength of independence and adventure.

“If I have any strength of character, it is from my grandmother,” Healy said.

“She was adventurous and not afraid to do things. I learned that from her.”

Healy remembers taking the ferry to Indianola to visit family in Kingston on summer weekends. When she was 14, she received permission to work for the U.S. Census Bureau conducting interviews.

“I learned to travel on my own and I think that was good for me,” Healy said.

“Working alone and traveling helped me learn how to be independent.”

After marrying, raising children and living in the Seattle area, she and her husband retired in 1991 to the homestead in Kingston.

When her husband died in 1995, Healy was again faced with incredible change.

“I didn’t want my children

to feel like they needed to take care of me so I knew I had to get involved,” Healy said. “I loved to read so the first thing I did was to join a book club.”

Now she belongs to two book clubs, is a member of Friends of the Library, and supports the Kingston beautification committee. Among other interests, she is past president of the Kingston Garden Club and regularly volunteers with the Kingston Chamber of Commerce.

At 71, Healy raised more than $5,000 for the National Arthritis Association and went to Ireland to walk in a 26-mile marathon.

“My husband would have been so proud of me,” Healy said. “He was a good athlete.

I had to train for the marathon. It wasn’t hard to do. I just had to be consistent.”

Healy was a member of the Kitsap Monday Hikers Club for 10 years and ruffles a bit See healy, Page19

All Together Better

All Together Better All Together Hearing Better For You Hearing For You All Together Better Hearing For You Hearing For You

“Our clients come to us because we have over 30 years of experience in providing exceptional care and services at an affordable price within the comfort and privacy of their own home.”

Kitsap County’s experienced choice for exceptional in-home care at an affordable price.

el t’noD niyojne tcA nocitO tiw raeh ot acitamotua vnoc wollof ed keels stI s ,ti dniheb rehto htiw noc ot uoy reyalp 3PM mniatretne

• Personal Hygeine • Medication Assistance Excellent Employment • Toileting • Light Housekeeping opportunities.

• Eating and Meal preparation • Essential Shopping and Make a difference in • Ambulation, Transfers Personal Errands your life by making • Dressing • Transportation to Medical a difference for vocsideR • Bathing Appointments someone else. eht htiw

ud su tisiV tO yrt dna 008-1 llaC

360-377-7307 • 888-449-9048 (toll free)

I

109 Olding Rd., Bremerton • khcs@kitsaphomecare.com

, n oc i t O

0102©

Don’t let hearing loss keep you from Don’t let hearing loss keep you from Don’t let loss keep you from enjoying life tohearing the fullest Don’t letenjoying hearinglife loss you from to keep the fullest enjoying life to the fullest enjoying to the fullest Oticon Actolife is designed to let you hear what you need Thank

you for making Hear the best in Hearing He

Oticon Acto is designed to let you hear what you need to hear with greater comfort and clarity. The devices Oticon Acto designed tohear let and you hearyou what need to withisgreater comfort clarity.

Theyou devices Oticon Acto ishear designed to let you what automatically adapt to the environment so that youneed can automatically adaptand to the environment so that you can to hear withcomfort greater comfort and The clarity.

The devices to hear with greater clarity. devices follow conversation, even in challenging situations. follow conversation, even challenging situations. automatically adapt to the in environment that you can automatically adapt to the environment so thatso you can Its sleek design fits securely inside your ear or discreetly follow conversation, evenfits in challenging situations. follow conversation, even in challenging situations.

Its sleek design securely inside your ear or discreetly behind it, so you’ll feel more confident to communicate and stylish behind it,securely so you’ll feel more confident communicate Acto is sleek Acto is sleek and stylish Its sleek design fits inside ear orto discreetly Its sleek design securely inside your ear or discreetly in your hand, with others.

Oticon Actofits even worksyour wirelessly, enabling yet virtually with others.

Oticon Acto even works wirelessly, enabling in your hand, yet virtually behind it,connect so you’ll more confident to communicate behind your ear.stylish Acto is sleek and you to to devices such as cellconfident phones, TV behind it,feel so you’ll feel more to and communicate invisible Acto is sleek and stylish invisible behind your ear. you to connect to devices such as cell phones, TV and with others.

Oticon even works wirelessly, enabling in your hand, yet virtually MP3 players so youActo have theActo convenience of modern with others.

Oticon even works wirelessly, enabling in your hand, yet virtually MP3 players so you have the convenience of modern invisible behind your ear. youentertainment to connect toand devices such as cell phones, TV and communication devices. invisible behind your ear. you to connect to devices such as cell phones, TV and entertainment devices.

MP3 players so you have and the communication convenience of modern MP3 players so you have the convenience of modern entertainment and communication devices.

Visit us Casc

entertainment and communication devices.

Rediscover your hearing and reconnect Cascade View Medical Center Rediscover your hearing and reconnect with the important things in life.

22180 Olympic College Way, Suite 205 with thehearing important things in life.

Rediscover your and reconnect 22180 Olympic College Way, Suite 205 Visit us during our Special Event Poulsbo Visit us at our new location Rediscover your and reconnect with the important things in life.

Visit us during ourhearing Special Event and Acto RISK FREE. andtry tryOticon Oticon Acto RISK FREE. and try Oticon Acto RISK FREE. with the important things in life.

Call for an appointment Visit us during our Special Event Call1-800-555-5555 360-697-1300 to learn learnmore. more.

Call Call 1-800-555-5555 to learn more. and try Oticon Acto RISK FREE. (360) 697-1300 Visit us during our Special Event ©2010 Oticon, Inc. All Rights Reserved Diane Raszler, AuD Call 1-800-555-5555 learn more. ©2010 Oticon, Inc. All Rights Reserved and try Oticonto Acto RISK FREE. Doctor of Audiology

Call for an appointment

(360) 697-1300

Call 1-800-555-5555 to learn more.

©2010 Oticon, Inc. All Rights Reserved

Time of Your Life

There’s always room for humor

Guest column

Page 6

Jill Pertler award-winning syndicated columnist and author of “The Do-It-Yourselfer’s Guide to SelfSyndication” is collecting fans on Facebook on her Slices of Life page. Email her at pertmn@ qwest.net; or visit her website at http://marketing-by-design. home.mchsi.com.

• Fall 2011

Call if found: In search of fitness “My regimen starts with exercise. My preferred activity is walking because it doesn’t really feel like exercise and therefore helps maintain some of the denial about my failing relationship with fitness.

I walk every day.”

By JILL PERTLER I’m seeking fitness.

Again. You haven’t seen him, have you?

It’s a recurring theme in my life. I seek fitness.

I find fitness (sort of).

Time passes. Fitness, fickle friend that he is, hides from me, and the game begins anew. Olly olly oxen free!

When things first begin to slide, I attempt to ignore the circumstances by pretending fitness is still in the room right by my side. Then I opt for the position that fitness is a fair-weather friend who just doesn’t matter. Finally, the situation becomes dire.

This happens when I discover my jeans have lost their zipability and the departure of fitness can be discounted no longer.

Backed into a corner, I face fight or flight and

decide on the former, hitting it full bore. I come up with fitness routines, read fitness books, engage in a fitness diet and become a fitness booster. I dream of romancing fitness back into my life and enroll in my own selfmade fitness boot camp.

It is a seven-day-a-week, three-meal-a-day grind.

A friendship with fitness requires much attention to detail — for me.

This is not the case with others living in my house.

My husband shows little awareness of fitness or eating plans that rhyme with riot. He becomes involved in my quest for fitness simply because he sits next to me at the dinner table.

It’s sort of like fitness osmosis.

My regimen starts with exercise. My

preferred activity is walking because it doesn’t really feel like exercise and therefore helps maintain some of the denial about my failing relationship with fitness. I walk every day. My husband joins me (sometimes) on weekends.

Two weeks after our first excursion he shows me the gap in the waist of his pants. “Boy, walking sure is paying off,” he says. He is smiling.

I am not. His walking consisted of two brief jaunts on a couple of Saturdays. I hit the road hard seven out of seven.

He is down two pant sizes. I’m up a pound.

My husband eats a bowl of ice cream before bed. He works off the calories while sleeping.

I think about cheese and gain two pounds.

He squats down to pick up a dirty sock from the

floor and burns calories equivalent to me doing 20 squats every other day for a month.

It isn’t fair.

Experts point to scientific reasons why women experience a harder time losing weight than men. Discussions of this sort always result in the same conclusion. You know what I’m talking about: the “horrible-moans,” otherwise abbreviated as estrogen.

Good old Mother Nature has provided women with a higher level of estrogen.

(Remind me to thank her.) Guess what this achieves? According to my research, it ensures the female human has an abundant storage of fat to stay fertile, carry a pregnancy to term and lactate even in times when food is scarce.

The female is further

enhanced by a lower metabolism rate than her male counterpart.

This tendency increases with age. Exponentially so after age 40.

I am abundantly able to store fat. My metabolism is decreasing with each birthday. Where are my pom poms when I need them?

There’s only one logical and reasonable explanation for this illogical, unreasonable and unfit situation. Mother Nature and fitness are in cahoots. I think I even hear them snickering behind my back.

Good one, you two. Ha ha. I can appreciate a joke as well as the next over-40 estrogen-laden women. I’ll even join you in laughing at myself – as soon as I catch my breath.

CHOOSE YOUR SAVINGS!

1/2 OFF

FIRST MONTH’S

RENT

Where Your Next Adventure Waits!

OR YOUR MOVE IS ON US! We Pay Your Moving Expenses Specials Good Thru 11/30/11

BAY POINTE OFFERS...

• Spacious & Updated Studio, One and Two-bedrooms • 24 Hr. Licenced Nursing & Care Staff

• Housekeeping & Transportation • 3 Chef Prepared Meals daily • Top-notch activities program,

there’s something for everyone • Water views • Pets Welcome

Call Today (360) 373-9904 • 966 Oyster Bay Court, Bremerton,WA Ask for Stephanie or Renee www.BayPointeRetirement.com

• Fall 2011

Peninsula Hearing, Inc.

Hearing care

Time of Your Life

PENINSULA HEARING INC. 19319 7th Ave., Suite 102 Poulsbo (360) 697-3061 1136 Water St., Suite 103 Port Townsend (360) 379-5458.

Are dementia and hearing loss related?

Page 7

BY DR. MEGAN NIGHTINGALE

There has been a lot of buzz recently about a new study out of Johns Hopkins University looking at the relationship between hearing loss and the onset of dementia or Alzheimer’s disease.

The following is a synopsis of that report and my opinion of its results.

The study used 639 volunteers and found a very strong correlation between the severity of hearing loss and the risk of the onset of dementia or Alzheimer’s disease.

Overall, it seemed to be a very comprehensive study with very clear conclusions. There are a few things that in my opinion make it a very strong study: 1. The study took almost 12 years to complete.

2. The study accounted for several other variables that are shown to have a higher risk for dementia such as diabetes, hypertension, smoking, stroke and Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA). Any study participants who had these conditions were excluded from the study.

3. There is a very close relationship between age and onset of hearing loss and also dementia, however, this study accounted for this in the way the statistical analysis was set up. The study used several variables in the analysis and found that the results were the same even when accounting for age.

The thoughts as to why we see this trend are many but include the fact that a person who has a hearing loss has to use so much cognitive energy to deal with the lack of speech signals in social situations and in noise that it “exhausts” what is known as cognitive reserve.

Cognitive reserve helps people to store information in short-term memory.

Dr. Megan Nightingale CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

A JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITY STUDY of 639 volunteers found a correlation between the severity of hearing loss and the risk of dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. But that doesn’t mean if you have hearing loss, you’ll have dementia.

QUIZZLE.COM Therefore, with so much cognitive energy being devoted to deciphering degraded speech signals, there isn’t enough to work short-term memory.

We then start to see a reduction in short-term memory, which is one of the characteristics of dementia.

Another theory is that the social isolation caused by hearing loss also contributes to the risk of dementia. Several studies have already established a relationship between poor social networks and dementia.

The main takeaway from this study is that not everyone who has a hearing loss will get dementia.

There just isn’t as direct a correlation as that. It is important to remember that this study looked at risk factors for dementia, and hearing loss is now established to be one of those factors. Hearing loss can really make everyday living harder and we need all the help we can get to keep our minds sharp and active into our older years.

More studies like this are needed to confirm these findings. It would

also help to study what the impact of regular hearing

to prevent dementia or minimize its effects.

— If you would like more information on these topics for yourself or a loved one, contact Dr. Megan Nightingale at (360) 697-3061.

aid use and listening training might make on helping

Our Family is Committed to Yours Visit today to learn about the many benefits of living at Montclair Park

We offer a wide range of services from independent living, assisted living and memory care. Whether you are looking for a new place to call home without the hassles of daily living or you have a loved one who requires a little extra care such as dressing, bathing and medication management, Montclair Park Senior Living is committed to helping you and your family find the right fit.

Veteran’s Benefits If you are a wartime veteran or the surviving spouse of a veteran and are in need of assisted living, you may be entitled to a significant monthly income, ranging from $1,056-$1,949 per month from the Veterans Administration.

Call Today to schedule your tour! (360) 697-2223 Montclair Park 1250 NE Lincoln Rd Poulsbo, WA 98370 montclairpark-crd@emeritus.com

An Emeritus Senior Living Community

www.montclairparkalf.com

Time of Your Life

Anderson Dental and Denture Center

Healthy teeth

Page 8

Anderson Dental and Denture Center

19410 8th Ave. NE, Suite 102, Poulsbo (360) 779-1566 (800) 990-9116 www.andersondenturedental.com

“We have patients whose spouse or family members have no idea they wear dentures.”

— Bruce Anderson, Anderson Dental and Denture Center in Poulsbo

• Fall 2011

Dental care with a touch of home The suite at 19410 8th Ave. NE in Poulsbo seems more like a visit to an aunt and uncle’s house than what it is.

The walls are painted hunter green or beige or other warm colors, trimmed with wallpaper borders. The carpet is a nice off-white Berber. Some rooms have wood floors and are comfortably decorated. There’s a grandfather clock in the hallway, and a plate collection and Norman Rockwell reproductions. At the end of the hall is a comfortable sitting area.

Personal items — awards, diplomas, photos, and items of historical interest — complete the decor.

Visitors often come in with brownies and cookies.

Sometimes, folks stop by to sit and read a spell. You might hear a discussion from the man of the house — more on him in a minute — about his latest restoration of an antique black powder rifle. Later, you might go outside to check out his restored 1951 Ford Victoria. (And like your uncle’s classic car, you can admire, but don’t touch.)

This is Anderson Dental and Denture Center, which strives to provide a homelike environment for all the cousins — OK, patients — who come to call.

“We try to make it like any home,” Wanda Anderson said. “We consider our patients our family.”

The homelike environment has a benefit to the patient that goes beyond comfort. Anderson said the environment has a calming effect, a good thing when

ANDERSON DENTAL AND DENTURE CENTER was a tee sponsor at the Greater Poulsbo Chamber of Commerce benefit golf tournament at Port Ludlow in July. Seated from left, Maria Hannawacker, patient coordinator; Mijee Fitzpatrick, dental assistant; Dr. Monica Berninghaus, dentist; Wanda Anderson. Standing from left, Vickie Thacker, insurance specialist; Elaine Bowen, dental assistant; Bruce Anderson, denturist.

CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

you’re having dental work done or are adjusting to new dentures. Anderson, a psychologist with a gentle Louisville accent, spends time as needed with patients to help them adjust to a new life with new teeth.

Back to the “man of the house.” He’s Bruce Anderson, a denturist for more than 40 years. Wanda, his wife, is the office manager.

Dr. Monica Berninghaus joined the staff this year.

Other staff members are Elaine Bowen, dental assistant; Mijee Fitzpatrick, dental assistant; Vickie Thacker, insurance specialist, and Maria Hannawacker, patient coordinator.

Berninghaus worked as a pharmacist before entering dental school. She is a graduate of The Ohio State University, where she received her pharmacy

IS YOUR DAUGHTERS DIAMOND BIGGER THAN YOURS?

BLUE HERON JEWELRY CO. 18946 Front Street • Downtown Poulsbo 360-779-3322 • www.blueheronjewelry.com

and DDS degrees. She has a master’s degree in dental science from George Washington University.

She is a Fellow in the Academy of General Dentistry. She was also profiled in the Washington State Dental Association’s WSDA News.

She served in the U.S. Navy Dental Corps for 21 years, retiring as a commander. While in the Navy, she completed a general practice residency at Camp Pendleton Naval Hospital as well as a two-year comprehensive residency program at the National Naval Dental Center in Bethesda, Md. During her Navy career, she served as staff dentist, dental department head, clinic director, division officer, and general dentistry director. She served in Alaska, California, Maryland, Mississippi and Washington, and onboard the USS Bridge and USS John C. Stennis.

Dr. Berninghaus is very proud to say she served in the Navy, however, she is excited to be a part of the Anderson Dental/Denture Center family and has that same enthusiasm to serve.

fell in love with poulsbo The Andersons came to Washington state to visit

friends almost 20 years ago, after Wanda retired as a school psychologist.

They explored the state, driving 3,000 miles.

When they drove through Poulsbo, the Andersons immediately fell in love with it. Bruce, who is of Norwegian ancestry, was especially enthralled. (Bruce is originally from Boston, and Wanda from Louisville, Ky.) “We hit the ground running and haven’t stopped,” Wanda said in an earlier interview.

In the ensuing years, they acquired a dedicated staff that the Andersons call “the best staff in the whole world,” and a loyal patient base they refer to as their “dental family.” Anderson said the waiting room often sounds more like a cocktail party than a reception area, with friends laughing and sharing stories.

The Andersons also like to be involved in the community. They sponsored a tee at the Greater Poulsbo Chamber of Commerce Benefit Golf Tournament at Port Ludlow in July, and sponsored a winning Miss Poulsbo candidate.

Care for them like your natural teeth Even after four decades, Anderson finds his job

exciting and challenging because each patient’s needs are unique and requires a different touch. He makes each denture like an artist makes a work of art; he uses translucent shades to match natural tooth color, and uses a hint of root color to further enhance the look of the tooth. It’s often impossible to tell denture teeth from natural teeth.

While Anderson Dental and Denture Center specializes in full and partial dentures, the staff sees patients of all ages and promotes dental care and natural teeth for life.

Likewise, to those who have full or partial dentures, the Andersons emphasize the importance of regular oral exams. Properly fitting dentures are key to good health, comfort, natural look and self-esteem. But like natural teeth, it is imperative to keep denture teeth and gums immaculately clean by brushing after every meal and at bedtime.

Anderson helps denture patients through the learning curve on how to use dentures. “It’s totally different,” he said. “Many people successfully manipulate dentures and we have patients whose spouse or family members have no idea they wear dentures.”

Anderson studied at Covenant College, University of Florida School of Dentistry, Idaho State University and the American Denturist Academy. He received his diploma in denturitry from George Brown College. He is president-elect of the National Denturist Association.

“I’ve been doing this for so long, there aren’t surprises any more,” he said. “Our success rate is very high, and we make the best set of teeth we know how. Our goal is to bring confidence, comfort and good health to our patients.”

His wife adds, “We keep our services as affordable as possible. God’s good to us and we’re trying to give back to the community.”

• Fall 2011

Health and wellness

New services

Time of Your Life

HARRISON MEDICAL CENTER’S HEALTH & WELLNESS AT HASELWOOD FAMILY YMCA 3909 NW Randall Way, Suite 201 Silverdale, WA 98383 360-613-4467 Monday to Friday, 8 am to 5 pm www.harrisonmedical.org/ home/YMCA

Page 9

Harrison Medical Center partners with YMCA to offer health & wellness services Harrison Medical Center now offers health and wellness services at the Haselwood Family YMCA in Silverdale. This new partnership is designed to promote overall wellness and encourage community members to develop healthier lifestyles.

As a non-profit organization, Harrison Medical Center is committed to all members of the community. Providing education about the importance of nutrition and physical fitness can help slow the rise of chronic diseases and reverse the trend of childhood obesity in our community. Think of Harrison’s services as a prescription to manage your health and healthcare costs.

The following services are offered at the Haselwood Family YMCA:

CARDIOPULMONARY REHABILITATION Phase 3 is outpatient exercise maintenance for those who are recovering from or managing cardiac or pulmonary conditions.

The program offers open gym times and monitored support at whatever level patients need.

After completing the Phase 2 CPRehab program, patients are strongly encouraged to continue an exercise regimen to maintain their new levels of cardiac and pulmonary health. When patients take their Phase 2 health and wellness components and incorporate them into everyday life, they have the best chance for a successful recovery. By moving into Phase 3, they then can turn their newfound knowledge of exercise, nutrition, and other lifestyle choices into healthy, lifelong habits.

OUTPATIENT ADULT REHABILITATION Highly trained practitio-

ners — occupational therapists, physical therapists, and speech pathologists — use state-of-the-art tools to provide comprehensive rehabilitation services aimed at aiding recovery from surgery, injury, or illness. Harrison Medical Center is committed to helping patients get back to work, to play, and to an active lifestyle.

Harrison offers orthopaedic physical and occupational therapies; work conditioning; functional capacity evaluation; and aquatic, hand, and oncology therapies.

NUTRITIONAL COUNSELING If your eating and lifestyle habits need a major overhaul or simply a gentle boost, Harrison Medical Center’s experts can help.

And whether you’ve been recently diagnosed with diabetes or you’ve been living with the disease for many years, Harrison’s programs will teach you skills to help avoid complications and live well.

Harrison Medical Center offers an array of nutrition and diabe-

Harrison Medical Center is offering cardio-pulmonary rehabilitation, nutritional counseling and massage therapy through a partnership with Haselwood Family YMCA. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO

tes services. Registered dietitians, skilled in education and motivation techniques, teach new behavior to promote fitness and improve health. All dietitians are certified by the state of Washington and the American Diabetes Association to provide

Top designation BREMERTON — Harrison Medical Center has earned designation as a Blue Distinction Center for Knee and Hip Replacement® by Regence BlueShield in Washington. This means that Harrison has met objective, evidence-based thresholds for clinical quality after a rigorous evaluation process.

Only 13 hospitals in Washington state have earned this designation for quality care. Harrison is the only Blue Distinction Center for Knee and Hip Replacement® serving the Kitsap, Olympic, and Key peninsulas, as well as Mason County.

According to the BlueCross BlueShield Association, the selection criteria (clinically meaningful measures) used in designating Blue Distinction Centers for Knee and Hip Replacement® were developed

individualized nutrition evaluation, planning, and education.

MASSAGE THERAPY Complementary therapies have been proven to reduce pain, relieve stress, and create a sense of wellbeing. Massage therapy

in collaboration with expert physicians and medical organizations.

Medical facilities voluntarily submit clinical data to establish they meet selection criteria, which include: ■ an established knee and hip replacement program, performing required annual volumes for certain procedures (e.g., at least 100 total hip and total knee joint replacement surgeries [primary and revision] per year, with a minimum of 25 each total hip and total knee replacements); ■ an experienced knee and hip replacement surgery team, including surgeons with board certification, subspecialty fellowship training, and required case volumes for knee and hip replacement procedures; ■ an established acute care inpatient facility, including intensive care, emergency care and a full

promotes relaxation, balance, and harmony within mind and body. You also can keep your muscles supple with a massage before or after exercise.

Harrison Medical Center encourages you to discuss the best option for your See HARRISON, Page 19

range of patient support services; ■ full accreditation by a Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS)-deemed national accreditation organization; ■ a comprehensive quality management program; ■ pre-operative patient education; ■ processes that support transitions of care; ■ clinical outcomes that meet objective thresholds, such as complication rates and length of stay, for specific procedures.

A list of the specific selection criteria for the Blue Distinction Centers for Knee and Hip Replacement® is readily available to the public. For more information about this important designation, visit www.bcbs.com/bluedistinction.

Page 10

Time of Your Life

OPKC

• Fall 2011

Olympic Peninsula Kidney Centers What Everyone Should Know About Kidneys and Kidney Diseases!

The Kidneys are 2 of Your Most Important Organs

Glomerulonephritis - inflammation of the blood vessels in the kidneys. This is usually caused by strep infections of the skin or throat.

Kidneys perform many vital functions they help remove waste, and excess fluid, they filter the blood, removing others, and they help regulate blood pressure, red blood cells, and the amount of certain nutrients in the body, such as calcium and potassium.

Kidney Stones - Are deposits formed in the kidneys, which can block drainage.

They may be caused by excess calcium in the urine. Risk factors include.

Dehydration, urinary tract infections, excess vitamin D, family history of kidney stones.

How They Work

Nephrotic Syndrome - Is the result of excess protein in the urine, causing tissue to swell. This is most common in children. In adults, it may be a complication of diabetes, lupus or other illnesses.

1. Blood enters the kidneys through an artery from the heart.

2. Blood is cleaned by passing through about a million tiny filters.

3. Waste material passes through the ureter and is stored in the bladder as urine 4. Newly cleaned blood returns to the bloodstream via veins.

5. After bladder becomes full, urine passes out of the body through the urethra.

Why Learn About Kidney Diseases? Kidney Disease can effect anyone at any age!

Kidney diseases are common and serious, they can even be fatal. Kidneys can become so damaged from disease or injury that they can no longer clean waste products from the blood. This can lead to Acute kidney failure - a sudden, usually short term loss of kidney function Chronic kidney failure - a gradual, long-term loss of kidney function that may become irrepressible.

End-stage renel disease - permanent, damage to both kidneys Fortunately if one kidney is lost, or both are partly damaged, the remaining tissue is usually strong enough to do the job.

Types and Causes of Kidney Diseases Pyelonephritis - Occurs when infections in other parts of the body can spread to the kidneys. Risk Factors include, Diabetes, obstructions of the urinary tract and long term use of catheters.

Cysts - are fluid filled sacs. Having some cysts is harmless. But, having many cysts (polycystic kidney disease) may replace the matter within the organ and cause the kidney to fail. This condition is inherited.

High Blood Pressure - can damage small arteries in the kidneys. A vicious cycle begins - damage to kidneys causes more serious high blood pressure, which damages the kidneys.

Diabetes - can also damage the blood vessels in the kidneys. one of the leading causes of kidney problems.

Diabetes is

Early Detection is The Key Many kidney diseases can be treated in the early stages.

Specific Signs of Kidney Disease high blood pressure • swelling or puffiness in the body shortness of breath • a need to urinate more or less often blood and/or protein in the urine • difficult, painful or burning urination • increased levels of waste in your blood.

Non-Specific Signs of Kidney Disease fatigue or weakness • a lack of memory problems sleeping • cramps or itchiness See your health care provider right away if you have one or more of the above symptoms.Your health care provider may order tests to find out what’s causing your symptoms.

Olympic Peninsula Kidney Center - Bremerton Kenneth A. Cogen Facility

Olympic Peninsula Kidney Center South

Olympic Peninsula Kidney Center North

Olympic Peninsula Kidney Center Northwest

2613 Wheaton Way Bremerton, WA 98310 360.479.5908

450 S. Kitsap Blvd. Ste. 178 Port Orchard, WA 98366 360.895.7795

19472 Powder Pl. Ste. 100 Poulsbo, WA 98370 360.598.9712

2500 Sims Way, Ste. 102 Port Townsend, WA 98368 360.379.9605

Time of Your Life

• Fall 2011

Page 11

Commemorating the Past �

Celebrating the Present �

Embracing the Future Some Kidney Conditions Can be Cured In other cases, treatment can relieve pain, slow the disease, and prolong life.

Treatment may include: • A Special Diet • Medication • Surgery • Shock waves Artificial Kidney Treatment ( dialysis) It is used for people whose kidneys have failed.

There are 2 types of Dialysis HEMODIALYSIS - The persons blood is pumped through a tube to an artificial kidney machine. This machine removes excess fluid, waste, and returns the clean blood through a second tube. During treatment, the person can read, watch TV or sleep. Treatment is usually done 3 times a week for 3 or more hours at a time.

PERITONEAL DIALYSIS - A Solution called dialysate flows from a bag through a tube into the preitoneum (the membrane that lines the abdominal cavity). Waste products and excessive fluids pass from the blood into the dialysate. The used solution is then removed from the body through a tube- by gravity or a machine. If done by a machine, peritoneal dialysis is performed each night. The person connects the tube to the machine before going to be, and disconnects in the morning. If done by gravity, the person usually changes the bag of solution 4 times a day. Each exchange takes about ½ an hour.

A Kidney Transplant May be Needed in Some Cases The donated kidney may come from a close relative or unrelated donor.

Finding a Match - The donated kidney must match the recipient’s blood and tissue type. There are 2 sources for kidney transplants – living donors and people who have agreed to donate their organs after death. Close relatives are best. Tissue typing centers help match donors, and recipients The Threat of Rejection - The main reason risk of kidney transplant is the body may attack the new kidney, treating it like a foreign substance. When donors and recipients are well matched, the chances of rejection are lower. Drugs are used to help kidney rejection.

Take Steps to Prevent Kidney Disease Drink Plenty of water this is especially important for preventing kidney stones.

Prevent or Treat Diabetes, and High blood Pressure, Eat a healthy Balanced Diet, Treat Wounds and infections, Limit exposure to Heavy Metals, and Toxic Chemicals

OLYMPIC PENINSULA KIDNEY CENTERS:

Saving lives for 30 years.

In 1986 The Kidney Center built a facility at 2740 Clare Avenue near Harrison Medical Center. In April 2001 it opened a satellite office in Port Orchard and another in 2006 in Poulsbo. Most recently the Bremerton facility relocated to it’s current location at 2613 Wheaton Way, and in June of last year the fourth facility was opened in Port Townsend. Currently OPKC serves approximately 200 patients at the four locations, and also provides inpatient dialysis services at Harrison Medical Center under a contractual agreement.

Dialysis is a life – saving and life – extending measure for patients who undergo the process. It becomes necessary when the kidneys, which removes waste, salt and extra water from the body and keep a safe level of certain chemicals in your blood, such as potassium, sodium and bicarbonate, no longer function properly. The most common causes of kidney failure are diabetes, & high blood pressure.

In hemodialysis, the most frequently used form of dialysis., the patient’s blood is pumped through the blood compartment of an external dialyzer, or artificial kidney. The cleansed blood is then returned to the patient’s body. Two needles must be inserted into the

patients body, usually in a vascular access located in the arm.

In the early years, it was more common for kidney patients to receive their treatment at home. Later, treatment in a dialysis facility became more common, but there is now a trend back to more home treatment for greater patient convenience. Some newer technology allows two – to three hour dialysis sessions at home which are given four to six times a week, which more closely mimicking actual kidney functioning.

Current estimates see more than 26 million people in the U.S. With some form of chronic kidney disease, which can be very mild or progress to the point where dialysis is needed. There are presently nearly 500,000 patients receiving dialysis in the United States. Kidney disease has a mortality rate from 18 to 25 percent.

Olympic Peninsula Kidney Centers strive to make the dialysis experience as comfortable as possible by providing recliners, individual televisions,a nd internet access for patients to use while receiving dialysis treatments.

Time of Your Life

Help for those who help others

Need help? Ask.

Page 12

Reprinted by permission Reprinted from “reaching out for Help” by permission of National Family Caregivers Association, Kensington, M.D., the nation’s leading organization for all family caregivers. (800) 896-3650; www.thefamilycaregiver.org

• Fall 2011

Caregivers: Reaching out for help Why is it so hard to ask for help?

What’s a good response to the statement, “Call me if you need me?”

Despite the fact that family caregivers are drowning in responsibility or are really confused about what the next step ought to be, they often respond “no, thanks” when help is offered. Asking for & accepting help is a complex issue. Obviously you first need to admit that having some help will make a real difference in your loved one’s quality of life, & therefore yours as well. Then you need to define what help you need. Which tasks or chores would be the easiest to ask others to do? Which do you really want to do yourself? And which, if any, can you afford to pay others to do? If this just sounds like more work, know that it doesn’t have to be an overwhelming task but rather just a way to organize the thoughts & information you already have. Ready to give it a try?

There are six steps to getting help…

1. Recognize that caregiving, like any job, is made up of lots of individual tasks, not all of which are of the same importance. Some tasks take a few minutes; some may take many hours. Some tasks are easy; others require some skill and fortitude. The challenge is to know the difference.

2. Recognize that asking for help is a sign of strength and not of weakness.

It means you truly have a grasp on your situation and have come up with a proactive problem-solving approach to making things easier and better.

3. Create a list of the tasks that need to get done in any given week, or at least those you are most concerned about, such as balancing your responsibilities at work with taking mom to the doctor and Susie to soccer practice, bathing and dressing your husband, cooking, cleaning, etc.

When you see how long the list is you’ll quickly understand why you are so tired and don’t have time for yourself.

4. Group your tasks into categories such as personal care tasks for your loved one, transportation, household chores. You can group your tasks into only a few broad categories, or many specific ones. There’s no right or wrong way. It’s all a matter of personal preference.

Are

Where to find help Contact the Caregiver Support center, a program of the Kitsap County Division of Aging & Long Term Care. Drop by the Silverdale Community Center at 9729 Silverdale Way NW between 11am and 2pm. Monday through Friday or by appointment. Or call (360)337-5700 or (800)5626418 or email tweintra@co.kitsap.wa.us If you are a senior seeking information about maintaining your independence, local programs, planning for your future, or any other aging related topics, please contact Senior information & Assistance at (360)337-5700 or (800)562-6418 for help over the phone or to request an appointment.

Information on both the Caregiver Support and Senior Information & Assistance programs, local community resources and other services of the Division of Aging & long Term care is also available online at www.agingkitsap.com 6. Share your lists with someone you trust before you actually reach out for help — a friend, therapist, or clergyman, perhaps. The intent is to first get comfortable with the idea of talking about your need for assistance and hopefully get some encouragement and good ideas in the process. Then take a deep breath and actually ask someone to help with one of the tasks on your list, or ask for guidance in resolving your most persistent worry. Start with something small, especially if you are looking for hands-on assistance or something that requires someone doing you a favor. Don’t get discouraged if you get rejected at first. It sometimes takes perseverance. Just remember: The effort is worth it because the goal is better care for your loved one and yourself.

you cAring for or helping A loved one?

Kitsap Businesses Invited to Partner In “Waste Free Holidays”

5. Write down your caregiving worries. Where will we get the money to pay for John’s medications? Who will care for Mary if I get sick? Where can I find an adult day facility that provides transportation? Seeing them in black and white helps diffuse some of their emotion. It also allows you to think more rationally about your concerns and understand how getting help with some of your tasks might lessen the stress.businesses It can provide offer the basis for Participating deciding which tasks you might ask a neighbor, family member or discounts of 15-50% on tickets or gift the church to help out with, which you are willing and able to pay certificates for:might be a public program someone else to do, and which there • Music • Plays • Museums for.

Kitsap Businesses Invited to Partner In AsFree an unpaid supporter “Waste Holidays”

“Give Experiences Instead of Stuff”

of family or friends:

• Would you like “Give Experiences more information?

Instead of• Stuff” To explore options for help?

• Sporting Events • Restaurants • Spa or Salon Services Senior Information & Assistance • Lodging • Tanning • Auto Services A FREE service for seniors ages 60 and over and more

360-337-5700 or 1-800-562-6418

services to turn inGift Kitsap Countymay for: only be purchased WhereAnswers Nov.about 16 - service Dec. 31 tofrom questions & opportunities

Assessment of needs & referral to local services Assistance finding & applying for programs & services Visit www.wastefreeholidays.com Advocacy on important issues to senior register your business. or contact Colleen Minion - Pierce 360 337-4568

“Promoting the well being of older people and assisting them in maintaining their Your independence.” business can be recognized on Brought to you by County Aging Kitsap Kitsap County Solid Waste Division LongtoTerm Care Services as & a way reduce holiday waste.

the Waste Free Holidays website as well as print adsKitsap and County’s a brochure.

AreatoAgency There is no cost join. on Aging

FREE:

Participating businesses offer • To find out more about discounts of 15-50% on tickets or gift what to expect? certificates for: • Music • Plays • Museums • Sporting Events • Restaurants • Spa or Salon Services • Lodging • Tanning • Auto Services and more

ASK US ABOUT:

Gift services may only be purchased

• Information & Education from Nov. 16 - Dec. •31Caregiver Respite Options • Caregiver Lending Library • Counseling • Personal Caregiver Assessment • Specialized Services Visit www.wastefreeholidays.com to register • your business.

• Support Group Information Training & Conferences or contact Colleen Minion - Pierce 360 337-4568

Your business can be recognized on

Take carethe of Waste yourself while taking careas of your loved one Free Holidays website

Brought to you by Kitsap County Solid Waste Division as a way to reduce holiday waste.

well as print ads and a brochure.

Call 360-337-5700 or 1-800-562-6418

is no cost to join.

9729 Silverdale Way NW,There Silverdale • Mon-Fri 11AM - 2PM or by Appointment

• Fall 2011

Keeping fit

Exercise and you

Time of Your Life

FITNESS CENTERS For a list of fitness centers, see page 14.

Page 13

Cool weather? Keep fit indoors

BY KIPP ROBERTSON Summer has come to a close. But despite the change to cooler weather, staying active doesn’t have to be more difficult.

Seniors in Kitsap County have a plethora of gyms and fitness and recreation centers to choose from in order to stay fit. And for those who prefer more private exercise, exercising at or around the home is always an option.

Just keeping the body moving can help seniors feel better, said Stephanie Smith, general manager of Kingston and Silverdale Fitness.

“The more you move, the younger you stay,” she said. “You’ve got to keep moving to prevent arthritis and falls.”

Smith, who has 25 years of fitness experience and is a personal trainer, said it’s typical for people of all ages to begin using fitness centers more as summer winds down. Kingston and Silverdale Fitness offer a variety of senior programs. For those who want to improve overall balance and strength, Smith can teach you basic techniques you can do at home.

Working on balance, strength, range of motion and cardiovascular are all key aspects of staying healthy. Techniques can include resistance training and balance training, which can be as simple as standing on one foot

MARILYN WANDREY CHEERS as Betty Peck completes her 17th lap at the end of the Elders Dash, Aug. 21 during Chief Seattle Days. Peck, who turned 90 on Sept. 25, used to walk two miles a day, which she credits to her current level of fitness. She still exercises regularly, walks on a treadmill, and rides a stationary bike.

RICHARD WALKER

while brushing one’s teeth or doing the dishes, Smith said. Even while traveling, using a resistance band or tube is beneficial to keep core strength up, she said.

“Exercising is the only fountain of youth that actually works,” Smith said.

“There are no magic pills or potions.”

Exercising, either in a gym, club, or home is physically beneficial, but Janet Jackson of Poulsbo Athletic Club said it can be more.

Exercising in a gym or club is beneficial because of the the social interaction, Jackson said.

“It’s really nice, because we’ve had seniors who

Beautiful View Apartments Available

have lost their spouse, so they can come here and get support.”

Like other fitness clubs, Poulsbo Athletic Club offers the Silversneaker program. The program allows seniors to join fitness clubs through health insurance. Jackson said about half of the Athletic Club’s schedule is geared toward senior exercise.

And though there is a combination of reasons for people to join, the ultimate benefit is improving everyday functional fitness — going to the grocery store, moving around the house, maneuvering a vehicle, etc.

However, you don’t have to join a gym or fitness club to improve your overall health.

Jackson said any type of movement is beneficial, whether it is mall walking or doing workouts via television programs.

“I think the whole secret is to keep moving,” Jackson said. “Once seniors stop, muscle atrophy

“Exercising is the only fountain of youth that actually works. There are no magic pills or potions.”

— Stephanie Smith, Kingston and Silverdale Fitness

kicks in really fast and it becomes a downward spiral.”

Kitsap Crossfit trainer Mindi Martinez said after her father began exercising, he lost weight and may soon be able to stop taking his diabetes medication. Her father, 66 — the oldest member at Crossfit is 68 — is enjoying an overall healthier lifestyle.

“It’s just overall better functionality,” she said.

Occupational Hearing Loss PSNS BANGOR KEYPORT Hearing Loss caused by exposure to loud noise is an injury. Let us help you navigate the paperwork and receive the benefits you deserve.

No Cost to the Injured Worker

USE YOUR BENEFITS Providing Services for Existing Claims.

Call Today to Upgrade Your Hearing!

• State of the Art Hearing Systems • Assistive TV Listening Systems • Bluetooth Compatible Hearing • Custom Hearing Protection

• ACCEPTING PRIVATE PAY •

Assisted Living and Memory Care Services to Seniors 62 yrs. & up Bay Vista Commons provides your loved one with the support and care they need, in a compassionate and caring environment

191 Russell Rd., Bremerton

360-377-8300 www.bayvistacommons.com

ALWAYS NO COST TO THE INJURED WORKER

OWCP Hearing Loss Claims

Bremerton (360) 373-5883 Port Orchard (360) 876-1252 Toll Free 1-800-422-8942

Time of Your Life

Eat right and be healthy

Chuckwagon

Page 14

CHUCKWAGON SENIOR NUTRITION 2817 Wheaton Way, No. 208, Bremerton, WA 98310 (360) 377-8511

The joy of eating well and aging well

BY ERIN JENNINGS A benefit to retirement is not needing an alarm clock or fighting morning traffic.

But don’t think you can just sit around all day.

“When you retire, you think you can slow down,” registered dietitian Cathy Gunderson said. “But no, you really can’t.”

The reason, Gunderson explains, is that as we age, our bodies require fewer calories than previously required. Starting around 30, our metabolism decreases by about 10 percent per decade.

If you were able to maintain a healthy weight with 2,000 calories per day in your 30s, by the time you are 50 your body will only need 1,620 calories.

That’s quite a big difference.

To allow yourself more daily calories, you have to burn them. Gunderson suggests activities like walking, swimming and water aerobics.

Besides burning calories, an added benefit of exercising is that it helps build muscle tone, increases blood flow to the brain and promotes the regeneration of

Fitness clubs ■ Poulsbo Athletic Club, 19611 7th Ave, Poulsbo (360) 779-3285 ■ Kingston Fitness, 26001 Barber Cut Off Road, Kingston (360) 297-3336

OPEN

Scott A. Olson DDS

• Fall 2011

neurons.

Gunderson, who designs the meals for Kitsap’s Chuckwagon Senior Nutrition Program, said it’s important to choose nutrient-dense foods and not waste calories on food that lacks nutrients. For example, a bowl of strawberries is a better choice than a bowl of ice cream.

Vegetables, whole-grains and colorful foods such as blueberries and cantaloupe are great choices.

And don’t forget about the wonders of fiber. A lot of processed foods consumed today are low in fiber and that getting enough can be a challenge. Sprinkling flax seed or oat bran on cereal is a good way to get the proper daily amount.

“Fiber keeps things moving and waste products from your body are quickly eliminated,” Gunderson said.

Another benefit of retirement is having more time for socializing. Beware: dining out too frequently can cause your waistline to expand.

Often, restaurant portions are bigger than you need and are high in calories, fat and sodium. A good trick Gunderson shares is to ask for a “to-go” container when ■ Westcoat Fitness, 5881 Highway 303, Bremerton (360) 3775250 or 1948 SE Lund Ave, Port Orchard (360) 874-2818 ■ Haselwood YMCA, 2909 NW Randall Way, Silverdale (360) 698-9622

IN

POULSBO

Dr. Scott A. Olson is pleased to announce the opening of his new practice, Viking Dental, in Poulsbo on Highway 305. This state-of-art practice will meet all your dental needs in a relaxed and modern, all-digital environment. Dr. Olson retired from the Navy in 2006 after 31 years of service, and has made his home in Poulsbo with his wife Suzanne, a Veterinarian, and their three children. Dr. Olson specializes in surgical extractions and placement of immediate dentures, and has sedation and nitrous oxide available, as well as providing for all your general dentistry needs.

18520 State Hwy 305 N.E • Poulsbo vikingdental.com • 360-598-5510

EATING THE RIGHT FOODS can help you stay active, feel better and live a healthier life. .

UNIVERSITY OF NEW HAMPSHIRE your meal arrives. Immediately pack up half of your portion to eat at a later time.

That way, you aren’t tempted to eat the entire serving.

Ideally, as our metabolism changes we should listen to our body and intake less.

“That’s something a lot of us aren’t good at doing,” Gunderson said. “We don’t listen to our bodies and don’t stop when we are full.”

Overeating is an issue, but the opposite can also cause problems.

Gunderson said some seniors have a difficult time eating enough calories for

the day. The reasons for insufficient eating range from depression to lack of knowledge on how to cook.

For example, if your spouse cooked your meals for 50 years and you are suddenly a widower, you may not know how to prepare a proper meal.

Gunderson also said over time our tastes change and food may not be as appealing as it once was. Certain medications can also affect the taste of food.

The menus Gunderson prepares for Chuckwagon are required to meet nutri-

■ Bremerton YMCA, 60 Magnuson Way, Bremerton (360) 3773741 ■ Kitsap Crossfit, 20714 State Route 305, Suite 1B — (360) 930-4226 ■ Kitsap Martial Arts and Fitness, 20101 Front

Street NE, Poulsbo (360) 779-6233 ■ Anytime Fitness, 3276 Plaza Road NW Silverdale (360) 307-0444 ■ Kitsap Wellness Center, 21505 Market Place NW, Poulsbo (360) 598-3143

tional standards and deliver one-third of the recommend daily nutrients. Last year, Kitsap’s Chuckwagon program served 76,135 meals across the county.

Gunderson said not only does Chuckwagon provide a well-balanced meal, it also gives people structure to their day.

“Chuckwagon is wonderful,” she said.”It’s available and gets people out of the house and gives them a chance to socialize.”

Chuckwagon has been the sole provider of nutrition services for elderly persons age 60 years and older in Kitsap County for more than 37 years. It provides meals and other nutrition services at nine community dining locations throughout the county and delivers Meals on Wheels directly to homebound elderly. Hot, frozen or nutritional supplement meals are delivered daily or weekly by volunteers. Meals are served at noon and reservations are required at least one day in advance by 2 p.m. To find the location nearest you call (360) 377-8511 or toll free at (888) 877-8511.

■ 1-2-3 Fit, 10510 Silverdale Way NW, Silverdale (360) 308-9700 ■ Jazzercise, 15600 Cox Ave NW, Poulsbo (360) 779-7964 ■ Curves (locations throughout Kitsap), (888) 557-0718.

Time of Your Life

• Fall 2011

Page 15

Preventing Family Caregiver Burnout As our population ages, a growing number of American adults will serve as caregivers for loved ones who are disabled, frail, or suffering from a chronic condition. Today, an estimated 46 million adult Americans (22 percent of the population) are providing care to an adult family member or friend. (Source: Opinion Research Corporation, 2005). It is not surprising that many caregivers report experiencing physical strain, emotional stress, or financial hardship as a result of providing care.

With an eye toward caregiver burnout, let’s explore what causes this burnout, what are…

Caregiver burnout is a state of physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion that may be accompanied by a change in attitude - from positive and caring to negative and unconcerned. Burnout can occur when caregivers don’t get the help they need, if they try to do more than they are able - either physically or financially. Caregivers who are “burned out” may experience fatigue, stress, anxiety, and depression. Many caregivers also feel guilty if they spend time on themselves rather than on their ill or elderly loved ones. -www.women.webmd.com Below is a list of some of the symptoms of caregiver burnout (according to www.webmd.com): Withdrawal from friends, family, and other loved ones • Loss of interest in activities previously enjoyed • Feeling blue, irritable, hopeless, and helpless • Changes in appetite, weight, or both • Changes in sleep patterns • Getting sick more often • Feelings of wanting to hurt yourself or the person for whom you are caring Emotional and physical exhaustion • Irritability The symptoms mentioned above are linked to the many causes for caregiver burnout, but it is also important to recognize various warning signs/symptoms.

For example, causes may be from (according to www.webmd.com): Role confusion - It can be difficult for a person to separate her role as a caregiver from her role as spouse, lover, child, friend, etc.

Unrealistic expectations - Many caregivers expect their involvement to have a positive effect on the health and happiness of the patient. This may be unrealistic for patients suffering from a progressive disease, such as Parkinson’s or Alzheimer’s.

Lack of control - Many caregivers become frustrated by lack of money, resources, and skills to effectively plan, manage, and organize their loved one’s care.

Unreasonable demands - Some caregivers place unreasonable burdens upon themselves, in part because they see providing care as their exclusive responsibility.

Other factors - Many caregivers cannot recognize when they are suffering burnout and eventually get to the point where they cannot function effectively. They may even become sick themselves.

Experiencing one or two warnings may be normal under a variety of situations, however if one or more of the warning signs are persistent, or if multiple warning signs are present, the possibility of burnout does exist. You must be vigilant and often play detective by putting the pieces of the puzzle together to make the scene clearer.

And although warning signs of burnout should be easy to spot, they are often deceptive, in as much as noticing one or two of the following warning signs may not trigger any major concern.

Warning signs might be (according to www.helpguide.org): • You have much less energy than you used to • It seems like you catch every cold or flu that’s going around • You’re constantly exhausted, even after sleeping or taking a break • You neglect your own needs, either because you’re too busy or don’t care anymore • Your life revolves around caregiving, but it gives you little satisfaction • You’re increasingly impatient and irritable with the person you’re caring for • You feel overwhelmed, helpless, and hopeless Preventing “caregiver burnout” is the key to staying healthy and remaining a productive caregiver. Although there are numerous methods for seeking help/assistance in preventing burnout, generally speaking, prevention breaks down into 3 major areas: 1. Get the help you need 2. Seek the emotional support necessary 3. Take care of yourself Each of the above may be broken down with a bit more detail (according to www.helpguide.org): 1. Get the help you need - don’t think you can “do it all.” It is necessary to seek help from others or you will certainly burn yourself out. There are local agencies that can provide services, such as Kitsap Aging and Long-Term Care, senior centers, community centers, etc. Use local transportation services to help with doctor’s appointments and social needs.

2. Seek emotional support - talk to a close friend about your frustrations and feelings regarding caregiving. Structured support groups are often located in communities just to help reduce the stress of caregiving; often found in churches, Kitsap Aging and Long-Term Care, and Senior Centers.

3. Take care of yourself - Don’t neglect the many things that make you happy; like visiting with friends and family, exercising, going to a movie or dinner with someone special, and setting specific time every week just for you and you activities.

No one would deny that burnout exists. We can’t run away from it. There is ultimately only one course of action: be proactive.

By recognizing that burnout exists and that there is a means to preventing and treating it, you can help your family (and yourself, if you are in a caregiver role) effectively deal with this disorder.

www.visitingangels.com/westsound 360-602-0609 or 206-408-7433

Time of Your Life

Breenda Wall

Identity protection

Page 16

Brenda Wall is a certified identity theft risk management specialist. She is an executive director with LegalShield. Contact her at (360) 710-1069 or mwall@ prepaidlegal.com or visit www. prepaidlegal.com/idt/mwall

• Fall 2011

Be proactive to protect against identity theft

By BRENDA WALL When you read the words “identity theft,” what comes to your mind? The funny commercials where a man’s body speaks with a women’s voice talking about the $5,000 leather bustier he/she just bought, using someone else’s credit card?

Those commercials, while entertaining, did a misfortune to the public about what identity theft really is. Someone using an existing credit card or bank account is called “financial fraud.” True identity theft is much harder to repair than financial fraud and runs much deeper that just your finances.

Imagine if someone were to use your driver’s license information, with their photo on it, and receive a DUI/DWI. Would your bank know how to handle that?

What about if someone were using your Social Security number to work under and not pay taxes? What about a

THE BEST WAY TO PROTECT your identity is to have a service that monitors your Social Security number and notifies you of any unusual situtations. identitytheftprotection.com

criminal who breaks the law and uses your information to be charged and booked.

He or she is released on bail because of your good name.

Do you really think they are coming back for the additional hearings? And last, but not least, what if someone were to use your medical benefits? Do you think your

bank can help you with that one?

As careful as we are, we still cannot prevent identity theft from happening to us.

Why, you ask? Because our personal information is in so many databases and it’s impossible to ensure that every one of them is protecting it in the manner they should be. It might be an employee who makes a simple mistake and exposes our information to others. It might be a break in, where the thieves are looking specifically for personal information. It might even be that thieves hack into the company’s database, which has happened more times than we can even keep track of. Heck, even the military has lost laptops containing personal information. Google “identity theft breaches.” See what the results are. Frightening!

The best way to protect yourself is to have a service that monitors your Social Security number and notifies you of any unusual situations

that come to your financial identity. This way, if new credit is issued, or if existing credit is abused, you will be notified and it can be handled much quicker and easier than if it goes undetected for a long period of time. But, would you know how to restore your identity?

The more research I do, the more I know I do not want to be the one to fix my identity if it becomes affected. I want a professional to handle that for me. You need a program that does complete restoration services. Not resolution, restoration! It’s like cancer.

When caught in the early stages, it’s much easier to cure than after it has spread throughout the body.

But in addition to the monitoring service, nationwide access to attorneys is very helpful and necessary.

In more than 70 percent of the cases, an attorney will be needed to help handle the situation. Unfortunately, there is no monitoring service for your driver’s license,

your Social Security number, your criminal/character or your medical records. In these situations especially, an attorney is needed.

And don’t forget to monitor your children’s Social Security numbers too. That’s the next wave that’s happening as we speak.

Things to look for when shopping for an identity theft protection service.

Cost per person or per couple: Do they cover minor children’s Social Security numbers.

Restoration: Will a licensed investigator be assigned to your case to do the process for you? Or, do they “walk” you through fixing it yourself?

Areas of coverage: Do they help in all five areas (financial, Social Security, driver’s license, criminal/ character, and medical), or just financial?

Attorneys: Do they give you access to a nationwide base of law firms?

• Fall 2011

Looking ahead

Retirement planning

Time of Your Life

TODD TIDBALL is a financial adviser with Edward Jones 18887 State Route 305 NE, Poulsbo, WA. 98370 (360) 779-6123

Page 17

Retirees must make (at least) five key financial decisions

BY TODD TIDBALL When you’re working, you have a financial strategy that is largely based on one goal: saving money for a comfortable retirement.

You will likely have to make many adjustments over several decades to ensure that you stay on track saving and investing. But once you retire, a new goal arises — investing so you can remain retired. To help yourself achieve this goal, you will need to make a number of investment decisions.

Which of these decisions are most important? Here are five to consider: ■ How much will you spend each year? Before you can pursue an appropriate investment strategy, you’ll need to know about how much you will spend each year. Estimate your costs for housing, food, travel, entertainment, insurance, gifts — everything. Keep in mind that your expenses will likely change annually, especially for items such as health care.

Don’t forget about inflation, which will likely cause your expenses to increase over the years.

■ How should you balance your investment portfolio to provide sufficient income and growth opportunities? Clearly, you will need your investments to provide a source of income during your retirement years.

At the same time, you will need some growth potential to overcome the effects of inflation, which can erode your purchasing power. Consequently, you will need a mix of income- and growth-

oriented investments, with the proportions depending on your risk tolerance and your lifestyle.

■ How much should you withdraw each year from your investment portfolio?

The answer depends on several factors, including your retirement lifestyle, the size and performance of your investment portfolio, inflation, your estimated life expectancy and the size of the estate you’d like to leave.

This decision is important, because the amount you withdraw each year will directly affect how long your money lasts.

■ From which accounts should you begin taking withdrawals? You may have built three different types of accounts: taxable, tax-deferred and tax-free. It may be a good idea to take withdrawals from your taxable accounts first, thereby allowing your tax-deferred accounts, such as your Traditional IRA and your 401(k), more time to compound and potentially increase in value.

If you have a tax-free account, such as a Roth IRA, save it for last to maximize the compounding on money on which you will never pay taxes. (Roth IRA earnings grow tax-free if you’ve had your account at least five years and you don’t begin taking withdrawals until you’re at least 591/2.) That said, this is just a rule of thumb.

■ When should you take Social Security? You can begin taking Social Security as early as age 62, but your monthly checks will be considerably larger if you

wait until your “normal” retirement age, which is likely 65 or 66. But if you need the money, you may be better off by taking Social Security at 62 and giving your taxdeferred accounts more time

to potentially grow.

As you can see, you will need a lot of expertise to successfully manage your financial and investment situations during retirement.

If you don’t already work

with a financial adviser and a tax professional, now would be a good time to start. Once you’ve got your financial strategy in place, you’ll be better prepared to enjoy an active, fulfilling retirement.

Cathy Brorson

Outreach Advocate, Gourmet Chef, Diehard Greek

Premier Club

At Kitsap Credit Union, you’re valuable at any age. But we think turning 50 or better should be celebrated and rewarded - so we’ve created a program called Premier Club with special benefits just for you.

• No-fee Checking Account • Free Checks1 • Free Travelers Checks • Free Money Orders2 • And more!

kitsapcu.org Premier Club membership is open to all Kitsap Credit Union members ages 50 and better for an annual fee of $12.00 per year. Some restrictions apply.

1 One free box of checks per year. 2Up to 10 free money orders per month.

Federally Insured By NCUA

Page 18

Time of Your Life

• Fall 2011

• Fall 2011

Earning in the golden years

Retirement planning

Time of Your Life

TODD TIDBALL is a financial adviser with Edward Jones 18887 State Route 305 NE, Poulsbo, WA. 98370 (360) 779-6123

Harrison

Continued from page 9 body with any of its certified massage therapists.

Harrison offers therapeutic, Swedish, deep tissue, hot stone and hand/ foot massages in 30-, 60-, or 90-minute sessions.

Aromatherapy can be included for a nominal fee. Harrison has pay-forservice or insurance billing options, depending on the type of massage that may be right for you.

If you are new to massage services or just need a quick bout of relaxation, stop by for a 10-minute free chair massage during daily business hours.

Page 19

How to generate retirement income — during retirement

BY TODD TIDBALL Like most people, you probably save and invest throughout your working years so that you’ll be able to afford a comfortable retirement. Once you retire, you’ll want to focus on strategies to help you make the most of your retirement income — and you might want to become familiar with these ideas well before you retire.

Basically, you’ll have some “must do” moves and some “think about doing” moves. Let’s take a look at the “must do” ones first: ■ Take the right amount of distributions from retirement plans.

Once you turn 59½, you may be able to take penalty-free withdrawals, or distributions, from some of your retirement accounts, such as your traditional IRA and 401(k).

But once you turn 70½, you generally must start taking distributions from these accounts.

Your required minimum distribution, or RMD, is based on the previous year’s balance in your retirement plan and life expectancy tables. You can take more than the minimum, but you’ll want to make sure you don’t take so much that you outlive your savings.

■ Maximize your Social

Volunteers

Continued from page 3 forward.

Passing the volunteer torch to the next generation is important to these retired volunteers.

Developmentally, children begin to become aware of the world around them around age 12, Scarvie said. Encourage children to discover their passions and volunteer, he said.

With a friend, Keve

YOU MAY DECIDE TO WORK during retirement. Once you reach retirement age, you can keep all of your Social Security benefits, no matter how much you earn. GUIDESPARK.COM Security benefits. You can start collecting Social Security as early as 62, but if you wait until your “full” retirement age, which will probably be around 66, your monthly checks will be larger. And if you wait founded an organization to strengthen today’s youth. Called “For the Next 20,” the organization’s goal is to engage youth in meaningful relationships and encourage them to strengthen their communities. Communities thrive when people of all ages come together, Keve said.

“If everybody decides to do a little bit more good, it would make a difference,” Keve said. “Every little thing adds up.”

until after your full retirement age before you start collecting benefits, your checks can be even larger, though they’ll “top off ”

Healy

Continued from page 5 when people show unusual deference to her age.

“I don’t want to be treated like I am 82,” Healy said with a wry smile. “You can treat me like I am 72.”

With a passion for children, Healy volunteered her services as a loving hand to touch the lives of children and staff at the Suquamish Early Learning Center for three years beginning in 2008.

Early Head Start teach-

when you turn 70.

What should you do?

Start taking the money as early as possible or delay payments, waiting for bigger paydays? There’s no one right answer for everyone. To get the maximum benefits from Social Security, you’ll need to factor in your health status, family history of longevity and other sources of retirement income.

Now consider two moves that you may think about doing during your retirement years: ■ Purchase incomeproducing investments.

Outside your IRA and 401(k), you may have other investment accounts, and inside these accounts, you’ll need a portfolio that can produce income for your retirement years.

You may choose to own some investment-grade bonds and certificates of deposit (CDs), both of which can help provide you with regular interest payments at relatively low risk to your principal.

However, these investments may not help you stay ahead of inflation, which, over a long retirement, can seriously erode your purchasing power.

Consequently, you also may want to consider div-

idend-producing stocks.

Some of these stocks have paid, and even increased, their dividends for many years in a row, giving you a chance to obtain rising income. (Keep in mind, though, that stocks may lower or discontinue dividends at any time, and an investment in stocks will fluctuate with changes in market conditions and may be worth more or less than the original investment when sold.)

■ Go back to work. In your retirement years, you may decide to work part time, do some consulting or even open your own business. Of course, the more earned income you take in, the less money you’ll probably need to withdraw from your investments and retirement accounts.

However, if you’ve started collecting Social Security, any earned income you receive before your “full” retirement age will likely cause you to lose some of your benefits.

Once you reach full retirement age, you can keep all your benefits, no matter how much you earn.

Keep these strategies in mind as you near retirement. They may well come in handy.

ers Sarah English and Abby Hall remember Healy as an inspirational presence.

“She’s full of energy and full of life,” Hall said. “All that she does is so ‘wow.’ I am inspired to be like her.

She will always have a place with the children and in our hearts.”

English said, “She’s so kind and gentle and caring of the children and the staff.

She inspired me to be nurturing, a good listener and to give back to the community.”

Healy offers three pieces of advice that she credits for her good health.

1. Think about the things you decide to do: “I haven’t regretted anything I’ve done.

I’ve regretted only a few things I haven’t done.”

2. Take care of your body: “Do what you can to live a healthy life so when you have the time and money you are still well enough to enjoy it.

What you do now as a young person will affect you when you get older and some of those things you can’t undo.”

3. Be adventurous: “Develop an interest in a lot of things. I’m not great at any of those things, but I am never bored.”

Page 20

Time of Your Life

HEAR ’

• Fall 2011

WHAT YOU VE BEEN MISSING

Each season offers its own distinct sounds, but autumn by far has the most to offer. The sound of children burying themselves in fallen leaves — or maybe even as you crunch a few yourself — carries with it a special feeling that comes only once a year.

But these simple pleasures can be lost if you suffer from hearing loss.

Peninsula Hearing, Inc. offers an extensive selection of digital hearing devices, backed by our superior level of professionalism and expertise.

Call us today so you don’t miss one more thing. Plus, take advantage of our special offer!

We are your hearing and tinnitus experts. Why go anywhere else?

POULSBO 19319 7th Ave. 360-930-3015 PORT TOWNSEND 1136 Water St. 360-390-5307 www.peninsulahearing.com

LIMITED TIME OFFER Up to

300 off

$

a pair of digital hearing aids

Oticon Agil Expires 10/14/11. Some restrictions apply.

Not to be combined with any other offers.