Time of Your Life North Kitsap - Time of Your Life, Spring - 2015

life

The time of your

Spring 2015

YOUR GUIDE TO MATURE LIVING, HEALTH, FINANCES AND LIFESTYLE

24th annual

Older Americans C O N F E R E N C E Wed, May 13 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

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2 | Spring Time of Your Life 2015

Community of Friends My mother came from a very large close-knit family.

Every summer she organized our family reunion consisting of her sisters, brothers, and their children. She would cook wonderful meals and the kitchen would fill the house with wonderful aromas. Dad would keep everyone entertained and keep the family all laughing.

Mom no longer hosts the reunions since Dad had passed away. Her siblings now take turns having those family gatherings and picks mom up to take her to them. At the last gathering she looked extremely tired. I noticed that her frame was much smaller and was a bit more withdrawn.

After speaking with the uncles and aunts we thought it would be best if we found her a new home where others could keep her company and occupied throughout the days. Somewhere that would take care of her the same way she had taken care of us all those years. We did not just want anyplace to be her home but a place where she had activities, warmth, care and most importantly love. We decided that Liberty Shores & Harbor House in Poulsbo would be the new home that would be perfect for mom.

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Spring Time of Your Life 2015 | 3

Conference includes workshops to educate seniors Topics: Emergency management, finances, medication

By LESLIE KELLY

lkelly@soundpublishing.com

P

articipants in this year’s Older Americans Conference will be able to learn about a number of topics from the conference speakers.

If emergency preparedness is a concern for you, listen to Susan May and Peter Apgar of the Kitsap County Department of Emergency Management. They’ll talk about the biggest dangers in our area.

“Everybody knows about earthquakes,” May said. “And if they’re prepared for that, then they’ll have enough rations handy to make it through a couple of hours without power, or the typical two-day snow storm.”

What’s needed for an earthquake kit will be discussed, including food and water for five to seven days, emergency sources of light, first aid needs and other things.

“Many people who have been in the area for a while are prepared because they’ve been through at least one earthquake,” she said. “They know the hazards of living in the Pacific Northwest.

But if you’re new to the area, you may not have a good feel for what’s needed.”

Everything for an emergency kit, for a short power outage to a devastating earthquake, will be discussed.

“What we really try to stress is don’t ever have an empty refrigerator or cupboard,” she said. “There are things that

you can always have around that will be needed when the power goes out.”

Back-up food and water supplies are important, as is a source of light so you can sit and read your book until the lights come back on.

It’s all about being as comfortable and safe as possible.

May has been with the county emergency management department for eight years and has a background in health and emergency preparedness.

She is the department’s public educator and public information officer.

Apgar is a community educator with the Department of Emergency Management. He began volunteer work with KCDEM in 1993 as a ham radio operator supporting the county’s Alternate Communication System with emergency communications in Kitsap hospitals.

In 2001, he retired from Lockheed Martin after working as an electrical engineer for 31 years on submarine navigation systems.

In 2003, KCDEM invited him to attend a FEMA-sponsored Community Emergency Response Team training at Emmitsburg, Maryland. Shortly after that training, he helped compose a new curriculum for the county’s Kitsap Practices Responsible Emergency Preparedness program that covers personal and family emergency preparedness with an introduction to neighborhood preparedness.

More recently, the program was expanded to include Map Your Neighborhood sessions that organize neighbors to help each other in times of disaster.

Apgar has conducted numerous training sessions with community groups of

all types throughout the county. Each session is free and is designed for the group being addressed. For information or to schedule a presentation session, call 360-307-5870 or go to www.kitsapdem.org.

In addition to what supplies to have on hand, the talk will cover why communication sources fail during emergencies and what can be done and why it’s important to keep copies of important papers where they can be accessed.

“Even such things as your homeowners insurance policy and all the passwords to various accounts,” May said.

“These are typically things that you’ll need right away once the threat has passed and you’re trying to get your life back in order.”

Other speakers include Todd Tidball, who will speak about “Navigating the Next Adventure: Managing Your Money in Retirement.” He is with Edward Jones Financial in Poulsbo and an expert in helping seniors with planning for their financial future.

Tidball is active in Poulsbo and is a past chairman of the Poulsbo Rotary Foundation auction. He also is active in the Poulsbo Historical Society and volunteered with its fundraising auction.

He has a bachelor’s degree in business administration and management from Greenville College.

Tidball qualified for the firm’s 2013 Financial Advisor Leaders Conference that recognizes financial advisers who are among the leaders in the financialservices firm. He was one of 793 financial advisers who qualified from the firm’s nearly 12,000 financial advisers.

Speaker Nicholas Wyatt will talk about medication management.

According to Wyatt, medication-relat-

ed problems are common, costly, and often preventable in older adults. Studies estimate that approximately 25 percent of medication-related problems in the primary care setting are preventable.

Most of these medication-related problems occur during the medication ordering and monitoring stages of patient care, he said. In 2001, the total estimated cost nationally, related to potentially inappropriate medications, was $7.2 billion.

Wyatt’s presentation will address how patients of all ages can reduce their risk of experiencing medication-related problems.

“Patients will gain a better understanding of what medication therapy management is and how this simple process can reduce their risk of medication related problems,” he said.

“We will also discuss specific medications that have been identified as being potentially inappropriate and what tools can be used to evaluate one’s risk of experiencing medication-related problems.”

So, are you at risk for medicationrelated problems? You may be at more risk than you realize. Listen in to find out.

Wyatt obtained his doctor of pharmacy degree at the University of Washington School of Pharmacy in 2008 and currently works as the clinical pharmacy manager at Harrison Medical Center.

Another speaker, Richard Tizzano, will host a workshop on “Getting Your Legal Affairs in Order,” and how to plan for the economics of nursing care and assisted living. Turn to page 20 to find out more about Tizzano.

See conference schedule on page 23.

24th Annual Older Americans Conference S

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Long Term Care Alliance of Kitsap County Kitsap County Division of Aging & Long Term Care

4 | Spring Time of Your Life 2015

Aging Council is helping seniors get their needs met

By LESLIE KELLY

lkelly@soundpublishing.com

T

hey serve as advisers. But they’ve all encountered their own unique issues navigating the needs of seniors.

They are the Advisory Council to the Kitsap County Division of Aging and Long Term Care, the local Area Agency on Aging.

Among them is Al Pinkham, the current chairman of the council.

Pinkham spent 24 years in the Navy and following that served three terms on the board of the Peninsula Community Health Services. He then decided to join the advisory council for the area agency on aging.

As chairman, he said he is dedicated to hearing the concerns of seniors and caregivers to seniors and the aging population and working to meet those needs.

“When I finished my terms on the community health board, I said ‘What else can I do to help the senior population?’ ” he said. “Then I found this group.”

After two years on the council, he’s seen some things that Kitsap County is doing well to serve its senior population.

And he’s seen things that need work.

“We have a great amount of services available here,” he said. “But we need to get that message out to more people.”

That’s why he’s planning on taking the council meetings on the road to senior centers throughout the county, in order to hear first-hand what problems seniors are having, whether it be with accessing health care, transportation, or getting services in their homes.

“Transportation is a big issue,” he said. “What good is having places where seniors can get the care they need if they physically can’t get there?”

Another big issue for seniors is that many of them don’t want to ask for help.

“There’s a strong resistance to asking for help,” he said. “Some seniors think of it as welfare. But the fact is that the programs are being paid for with tax dollars and these seniors have worked all their lives and paid into taxes for years and years. Just like with Medicare and Social Security, they’ve earned the help.”

Council member Mari Van Court, who joined the council in January, found her way to the council after being the designated caregiver for three relatives.

“As a family nursing practitioner, I thought I knew what I was doing,” she said. “But I was completely blindsided by all that was involved.”

The combination of legal paperwork, the enormity of the finances and navigating the health care system was overwhelming to her. And it consumed her 24-7. So she sought out a support network for caregivers and found that with the county’s Division of Aging Caregivers Support Program.

“They saved my life,” she said. “Now I want to get the message out to other caregivers.”

Van Court sees a need for better transitions from hospital to nursing care and back home for seniors. She’s hoping to be able to work on making that happen.

She thinks the county makes good support services available to caregivers and wants caregivers to know what’s available to them when they need help.

Council member Michaelene Manion had experience working with the disability network, having had a disabled son.

She also helped her mother through a number of strokes and dementia in the 1990s.

“I saw so many people who needed

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help that they weren’t getting,” she said.

“I decided I wanted to fight for those who don’t have a voice.”

Manion has been on the council since 2009. She points to things such as dental care and vision care that need addressing. She is working along with the other council members to gather information and make sure “Olympia and the others with the power to fund programs” know what’s lacking.

Kitsap County is doing many things right, such a planning for the future, council members said. Statistically, by 2020, one in four residents will be over the age of 60.

“The county is planning well and seeking our advice on long range issues for the aging population,” said Van Court.

Pinkham said as far as funding goes, aging issues may not be the priority now, but both the state and the U.S. Congress are paying attention.

“They know what’s coming (with an aging population),” he said. “They understand the costs of health care at the end of life and they’re looking for ways to reduce those costs. It’s a hard discussion, but it has to happen.”

Such things are Advance Health Care Directives help, he added.

Another concern of the council is loneliness and isolation among the aging population. Reaching out to seniors is crucial.

“So many elderly are lonely and they won’t ask for help,” Pinkham said. “But with the work of the agency and the council, we’re improving that. We’re trying to get the word out that help is available. There’s information out there and problems can be solved.”

One way, he said, is the Senior Information & Assistance line, 360 3375700, or the 2-1-1 telephone resource number. Another is to go to your local senior center. Not only are there activities there to keep seniors from being lonely, but there are resources to help with a variety of issues as well.

ABOUT THE COUNTY’S AREA AGENCY ON AGING ADVISORY COUNCIL The purpose of the Advisory Council to the Kitsap County Division of Aging and Long Term Care is to make recommendations to the staff and the board of county commissioners regarding the development and support of the division’s mission and objective.

More specifically, the purpose of the advisory council is to work with the county to develop and administer the area plan, to conduct public meetings and hearings, to represent and advocate for the interests of older and disabled residents of Kitsap County and to review community policies, programs and actions that affect older people.

The advisory council currently has eight members who are appointed to represent specific areas of the county.

Council members are Sharon Cromley, Bremerton; Susan Hanna, Kingston; Gail Hiestand, Bainbridge Island; Michaelene Manion, Port Orchard; Alfred Pinkham Jr., Silverdale; Rosemary Pinneo, Tracyton; Mari Van Court, Port Orchard; and Connie Wurm, Port Orchard.

ABOUT THE AGENCY Kitsap County Aging and Long-Term Care (ALTC) is a division of Kitsap County government and is the state-designated Area Agency on Aging (AAA) for Kitsap County. ALTC provides services in the home and throughout the community for seniors and adults with disabilities to help them remain living in their own homes. Case management staff assesses and authorizes services for people receiving Medicaid funded in-home care services in Kitsap County.

Information and assistance staff offers free help to individuals and organizations with locating and accessing services and programs for seniors 60 years of age and older and those who are family caregivers. The goal is to offer quality services emphasizing independence and dignity.

The division’s administrative staff is responsible for fiscal and contract management and program and system planning and coordination. Kitsap ALTC directly operates: • Senior Information and Assistance • Case Management • Long-Term Care Ombudsman • Statewide Health Insurance Benefits Advisors (SHIBA) • Family Caregiver Support Program Kitsap County Aging and Long-Term Care also contracts for a variety of services throughout the county.

In addition, ALTC staff and Advisory Council members advocate for an effective system of long-term care services, collaborating with policy makers and other social service agencies. More information is available at www.agingkitsap. com.

Spring Time of Your Life 2015 | 5

There’s plenty of new offerings at Liberty Shores From new furnishings and carpet, to new programs for residents, Liberty Shores is home away from home

By LESLIE KELLY

lkelly@soundpublishing.com

W

hat’s on your play list?

Don’t be surprised if that’s the question you’re asked when you visit Liberty Shores Senior Living and Harbor House Memory Care Community in Poulsbo.

That’s because the staff at the community has just begun an innovative new music program for residents who have Alzheimer’s or memory issues.

Based on a recent national Internet video called “Alive Inside,” Liberty Shores social worker Tarah Threde gained permission to begin a pilot program of personalized music for some residents.

“It’s aimed at the residents who don’t talk or engage,” Threde said.

“We meet with their family members and get an idea of the kinds of music they once enjoyed. Then we load it on an iPod and using earphones, we let the resident listen to their personalized music.”

With one resident who is in her 80s and has severe Alzheimer’s, the results were immediate, she said.

“She’s someone who rarely opened her eyes or looked up,” Threde said.

“She never smiled. But once she heard the classical music that her husband brought in for us to play, she lifted her head. And then she began to smile.”

The music enters the brain through a portion of the brain that is the last to be affected by dementia, Threde said.

“There’s a science behind it,” she said.

Threde and others at Liberty Shores are now working to expand the program to other residents -- those with memory loss and anyone else who wants to participate. They plan to work with resident’s families and build up their music library.

“It takes some time, because we have to meet with families to get a resident’s play list, then download or record it on an iPod, and then get ear-

Liberty Shores Senior Living and Harbor House Memory Care Community in Poulsbo has many services for seniors who are looking for a place to call home.

Leslie Kelly photo phones,” she said.

Kay Pursey, director of marketing for Liberty Shores, said the husband of the Alzheimer’s resident was so thrilled to see his wife react to the music.

“He hadn’t been able to reach her very often,” Pursey said. “It meant so much to him. “Music sooths the soul.”

Liberty Shores and Harbor House opened in 1996 due to a need for elder care residential homes in the Poulsbo area. It is licensed for 112 beds and has 58 apartments and 46 units for memory care.

Liberty Shores features private apartments ranging from studios to two bedrooms. Residents are invited to furnish their places with their own belongings and treasures.

There is 24-hour on-site licensed nursing care to provide a wide range of medical care services. Residents receive three daily meals served restaurant-style including a variety of regular and specialized diets.

The community has brand new carpeting and community areas are being remodeled to add fireplaces and nooks throughout the building to help residents feel at home.

There’s transportation for shopping, scheduled medical appointments and recreational outings. Full-time social workers are on staff to provide emotional and interpersonal support to residents, and to keep families apprised of the residents’ needs.

Two activity professionals coordinate an array of recreational programs that are offered every day. The community has maid and laundry services and various recreation and exercise areas.

If a resident is in the mood for a make-over, there are on-site beauty salon and manicure services. A 24-hour snack bar is stocked with nutritious snacks and drinks for selfservice access. And a respite stay option is available in a furnished apartment for short-term residency.

At Liberty Shores, there is a monthto-month rental agreement with no buy in requirements. The center is locally owned and managed by Northwest Care.

Specialized care options include: • Vacation coverage: Vacation stays can range from a number of days to a few weeks offering care and supervision while the caregiver is away on a business trip or vacation.

• Hospital discharge: Offering posthospitalization stay in a furnished apartment with all the assisted living services needed as part of a successful transition from hospital to home.

• Trial stay: Use a short term guest stay to give the community a testdrive.

• Hospice care: Liberty Shores fully embraces the Hospice concept of dignity and comfort offering extensive assisted living support services under cooperation with a local Hospice pro-

vider.

Harbor House Memory Care is located adjacent to Liberty Shores and offers comfortable private and semiprivate rooms which are furnished or can be furnished with residents’ personal belongings.

Harbor House has three floors and offers security in housing and health care to aid in residents’ comfort and ensure their health and safety. It is designed to maintain the resident’s independence and focuses on comfort and familiarity.

Residents are encouraged to bring along family photos and there is a common area with “memory stations” that encourage individual and group activities.

Renovations are underway to include a community room which will include a coffee bistro and large-screen TV. Activities include board games, Bible studies, exercise classes and day trips and outings.

Outside, there is a courtyard that features gardens where residents can grown their own flowers and vegetables.

Harbor House Alzheimer’s Community also offers daycare and respite care for all stages of dementia patients.

And as in years past, the Liberty Shores and Harbor House received a Superior State Survey Inspection in 2014, something it has garnered for the past 13 years.

For that, a team of state licensers spend several days checking compliance in all aspects of medical care, emotional well-being, psychological support, activities, dining services, diets, laundry services, physicians’ orders, personnel files, staff training and more.

“We are proud of our team for receiving another perfect survey,” said Pursey.

Pursey and others at Liberty Shores and Harbor House invite anyone to come out and tour the center. There’s even a complimentary lunch if you time your visit right.

Liberty Shores is located at 19360 Viking Ave. NW, Poulsbo. Call 360-7795533 for more information. Find out more at www.libertyshores.com. And visit the Liberty Shores Facebook page for a narrative about the center’s personalized music program.

6 | Spring Time of Your Life 2015

Kitsap Computing Seniors: Helping each other learn more

By LESLIE KELLY

lkelly@soundpublishing.com

I

f it hadn’t been for that garage sale back in 2008, Betty Sarachene might never have met Karen and Warren Beauchene.

It was there that the three got started talking computers. And now, seven years later, Betty and Karen are leading the Kitsap Computing Seniors.

“They noticed the empty computer box my iMac came in that was in my garage,” said Sarachene.

“We just got to talking and pretty soon they’re telling me about this computer group for seniors.”

The group, Kitsap Computing Seniors, has been around for more than 20 years. It was started

by Silverdale resident Rampton Harvey, who wrote a letter to the editor asking if there were other seniors who wanted to learn about computers. After receiving 27 responses, he formed the group.

Today, the group has more than 240 members who range in age

from 35 to in their 80s. The average age is 65 to 70.

“Anyone is welcome,” Sarachene said. “But most of our members are retired and have time on their hands.”

The group has a monthly membership meeting where they have a speaker and a potluck afterward.

About 100 members show up for that. Speakers include experts on doing taxes online, finding your newspaper online, or librarians from the Kitsap Regional Library who talk about what library resources are online.

The group also offers classes in computers, computer labs, special interest groups such as the Mac group, on-call computer technicians to help members with issues that come up, and the New Horizons group which takes in used computers and revamps them for use by members or students in the area that are in need of a computer.

Both desktop computers and laptops are restored.

Computer classes are offered at the Silverdale Goodwill store and at Mountain View Middle School in Bremerton. Sessions for practicing and using computers are offered at Mountain View as well as at the Sylvan Way Branch of the KRL in east Bremerton and at Goodwill.

Monthly general membership meetings are on the third Monday of each month at 10 a.m. at the Silverdale Community Center, 9729 Silverdale Way, although they are looking for a new location due to the pending closure of the community center. Dues are only $20 a year and with that comes a monthly newsletter and the ability to use oncall computer help when needed.

Karen and Betty say many of the folks who join the group just want to be able to email their grandchildren and use Facebook.

“Some of them also Skype with their family who live away,” Sarachene said. “They just want to keep up with what’s out there in the computer world.”

Both Betty and Karen are pretty hip when it comes to computers and do their bill paying online, as well as shopping and researching genealogy.

“I take a lot of photographs, so I use Photoshop a lot,” Betty said.

“And I email a lot and play games on the computer,” Karen added.

They both have iPads and use those for a game called “Words with Friends” which is a competitive Scrabble game where they play each other, “with spellcheck,” Betty added.

There’s really only one thing that they haven’t updated, they both said.

“That’s my flip phone,” Betty said. “I love it. It makes calls and takes calls. And texts. That’s all I need.”

Karen and her husband have been members of Computing Seniors since 2005. They found the group at the Sylvan Way branch library.

“We just happened to be at the library and stumbled on to them,” she said. “We went to the Mac meeting and the rest is history.”

The Beauchenes moved to Poulsbo from California after retirement. She was a librarian and he was a mechanical supervisor for United Airlines. They have a daughter in Seattle.

Sarachene, too, landed in Poulsbo after retiring. Computing Seniors’ members are great at helping each other with new technology, they say. And members love to socialize.

“That’s a part of it, too,” Beauchene said. “We have some great potlucks.”

The nonprofit group relies on membership dues and donations to fund their work.

Anyone interested in joining should go to www.

KitsapComputingSeniors.org to download an application, or write to P.O. Box 3166, Silverdale, WA 98383.

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Spring Time of Your Life 2015 | 7

AAA course teaches driving like a pro, even after 55

By LESLIE KELLY

I

lkelly@soundpublishing.com

t’s that age-old argument — when should older drivers quit driving? At what age is it not “safe” to continue behind the wheel?

Those questions are ones that Mary and Danny Lilleness have heard many times.

As operators of AAA Driving Improvement Program, the Lillenesses know the answers aren’t simple.

“There’s no set rule,” Mary Lilleness said.

“It all depends on the driver. We’ve got a gentleman over on Mercer Island who’s 106 and still driving. He does I-5 and 405 and I-90 without any problems.”

In 1986, the Washington State Legislature passed a law authorizing insurance companies to give discounts to drivers age 55 and over if they successfully completed a safe driving course. That’s when the Lillenesses began teaching the class for the AAA of Washington.

In any given year, they teach 50 classes throughout western Washington with anywhere from 25 to 65 seniors attending each class.

Topics in the class include how to use your eyes to gather information while driv-

ing; what the environment, traffic situations and other drivers are telling you; making decisions about the speed you should travel; maintaining safe distance around your vehicle; what can come up and how to deal with emergencies; keeping your vehicle in good operating condition; making responsible decisions about drinking and driving; and emotions, preventing road rage, fatigue and drowsy driving, distractions, the aging process and effects of medications.

The one-day course costs $18 for AAA members and $25 for non-members.

Additionally, Danny will give private driving instructions behind-the-wheel for seniors at $250 and up for 60 to 90 minutes.

Completion of the one day course gives the senior a letter to present to his or her insurance company for discounted premiums.

Seniors also can get a letter to verify their ability to drive to give to a requesting physician or family member.

Danny has been a professional driving instructor in Washington since 1977, teaching both teens and adults. He’s taught for AAA since 1987. He’s also conducted safedriving programs for the U.S. Department of Defense, Department of Agriculture,

Puget Sound Energy, Weyerhaeuser, Seattle University staff and a number of hospitals in King County.

“By the time lunch rolls around, we’re all friends,” Danny said of the people who take his class. “My goal is to get them to think about their driving while they’re driving.”

Older drivers are, for the most part, very good drivers, he said.

“Younger drivers always think older drivers drive too slow,” he said. “But that’s not really the case. They’re cautious and they’ve had lots of experience behind the wheel and that makes them better at driving than younger folks.”

According to Mary, the classes are fun and sometimes include a lively discussion of how to handle any given situation.

“We had a lady wondering about what to do when she’s driving the speed limit in the slow lane and someone is tailgating her,” Lilleness said. “In that case, the tailgater wants you to move lanes because he doesn’t want to move lanes. But actually, the woman who asked the question is in the right and doesn’t need to move.”

How to act in these situations and how to avoid road rage is a topic in the class.

Another question often asked is what about driving slow in the fast lane, she said.

“Stay to the right, unless you are passing,” she said. “The left lane is not a lane of travel for someone who is driving the speed limit.”

Mary said recently she had a call from a woman who had concerns about her aging parents and whether they should still be driving.

“She called from out of state,” Mary said.

“I sent her the information about the class and told her to have them come.”

Additionally, she suggested that the woman’s parents take a behind-the-wheel class from her husband, who could then better assess whether they are still safe drivers.

With America aging, Mary said safe driving courses are becoming more popular all the time.

“Let’s face it, we’re all getting older,” she said. “It never hurts to have a refresher course. It’s been awhile since high school when we all took driver’s ed.”

To find a class, go to www.aaawa.com/ trafficsafety/driverimprovement, or call 206243-3564.

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2015 24th Annual EMERGENCY SERVICES Crisis Line (available 24 hours/day)........800-843-4793...............479-3033 Emergency Department: Harrison Bremerton 744-6710 Emergency Department: Harrison Silverdale..................................744-8975 Emergency Department: Navy Hospital ..........................................475-4286 Women’s Emergency Shelter (after 5 P.M.) ...800-843-4793.........479-3033 Police, Fire or serious Medical emergency.................................................911

INFORMATION & REFERRAL

Elder Care Locator (www.eldercare.gov).800-677-1116 Peninsula 2-1-1 (www.win211.org) ..........877-211-9274.........................211 Senior Information & Assistance (www.agingkitsap.com) .......................800-562-6418..........337-5700

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Harrison Medical Centers (www.harrisonmedical.org): Harrison Bremerton ........................866-844-9355...............744-3911 Harrison Silverdale....................................................................744-8800 Harrison Medical Center Social Work-Bremerton.................744-6604 Harrison Medical Center Social Work-Silverdale....................744-8959 Navy Hospital ..............................................800-422-1383..............475-4000 VA Puget Sound Health Care System – American Lake Division....................................................800-329-8387 VA Puget Sound Health Care System – Seattle......................800-329-8387

CLINICS & REFERRAL

Advanced Medical Imaging......................800-972-9264...............337-6500 Bremerton Kitsap County Health District (www.kitsapcountyhealth.com) ......................................................337-5235 Eye Care America Senior Eye Care Program: all referrals are done online. (www.eyecareamerica.org) Harrison Belfair Urgent Care..............................................................277-2975 Harrison Belfair Primary Care ............................................................277-2950 Harrison Palliative Care ..................................................................... 744-5618 Harrison Port Orchard Urgent Care ...................................................744-6275 Harrison Port Orchard Primary Care ................................................744-6250 Harrison Port Orchard Rehabilitation..............................................744-6220 Harrison Silverdale Adult Rehabilitation.........................................744-8980 Harrison Silverdale Pediatric Rehabilitation...................................744-6080 Hospice of Kitsap County (www.hospicekc.org) Silverdale ..........698-4611 Kitsap County Medical Society-Physician Referral .........................689-2928 Peninsula Community Health Services Centers (www.pchsweb.org): Bremerton ..................................................................................377-3776 Port Orchard ...............................................................................876-7215 Poulsbo .......................................................................................377-3776

EDUCATION

AARP 55 ALIVE Driver Safety Program .....................................888-227-7669 Red Cross (www.redcross.org/wa/seattle) ............................206-323-2345 Kitsap Regional Library (www.krl.org)...................................877-883-9900 Bainbridge Island.............................................................206-842-4162 Downtown Bremerton..............................................................377-3955 Kingston......................................................................................297-3330 Little Boston ...............................................................................297-2670 Manchester.................................................................................871-3921 Outreach Bookmobile ...............................................................405-9112 Port Orchard ...............................................................................876-2224 Poulsbo .......................................................................................779-2915 Silverdale ....................................................................................692-2779 Sylvan Way (E. Bremerton)...................................................... 405-9100

FOOD & NUTRITION RESOURCES

Food Assistance (DSHS) Community Service Office (CSO#18) 877-501-2233 .............................................473-2200 Senior Programs Bremerton Services Association dba Meals on Wheels Kitsap: 888-877-8511.............................................377-8511 Home Delivered Meals, Congregate Meal Sites, 50-60 Meals, Caregiver Support Meals, Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program, Nutrition Education and Dietary Counseling (www.mealsonwheelskitsap.org) Food Banks Bainbridge Island Helpline House (www.helplinehouse.org)................................................206-842-7621 Bremerton Food Line (www.bremertonfoodline.org) ..................479-6188 Central Kitsap Food Bank...................................................................692-9818 God’s Kitchen at Family of God Lutheran Church (Brem: Mondays 12-2pm).........................................................692-7729 Harper Church (South Kitsap)............................................................871-1230

Older Americans Conference Resource Directory Life Care Community Food Bank at Spirit of Life Lutheran Church ................................................. 876-5094 North Kitsap Fishline (www.nkfishline.org) ..................................779-5190 Salvation Army....................................................................................373-5550 Senior Information & Assistance (Listing)800-562-6418 ..............337-5700 Share Net Food Bank (Eglon, Hansville, Indianola, Kingston, Port Gamble, Suquamish).........................................................297-2266 South Kitsap Helpline (www.skhelpline.org) ...............................876-4089 St. Vincent DePaul-Assistance Office................................................479-7017 Hearing Resources Audiologists Northwest (www.help2hear.com) 800-770-1605 ...........................................................................479-4065 AVADA Hearing Care Center (www.avada.com) .............................874-0953 Harbor Audiology........................................................................253-851-3932 Hear For Life Audiology LLC (www.hearforlifeaudiology.com) .................................206-842-6374 Hearing Loss Association of Washington (Volunteer – Private Residence) ......................................lvm 871-0997 Hearing Solutions .............................................................................. 692-6650 Hearing, Speech & Deafness Center Tacoma Voice/TTY............................................866-698-1748......253-475-0782 Kitsap Audiology.................................................................................373-1250 Miracle Ear ...........................................................................................307-8570 Nilsson Audiology & Hearing Clinic...................................................895-3347 NW Lions Foundation for Sight/ Hearing Assistance (Not for Eyeglasses) ..........................................................206-682-8500 Office of Deaf & Hard of Hearing– Video Phone: 339-7382.....Voice/TTY: 800-422-7930 ..........902-8000 Peninsula Hearing......................................800-540-8698...............697-3061 Washington Relay Services (www.washingtonrelay.com) Information .......................................800-676-3777.........................711

HOME HEALTH & SUPPORTIVE CARE

Home Health Services Gentiva Home Health Services (www.gentiva.com).........................888-436-8482..............373-6966 Harrison Home Health (www.harrisonmedical.org) ....................744-6699 Navy Marine Corps Relief Society (Navy Visiting Nurse) (www.nmcrs.org) Bremerton ..................................................................................627-2187 Bangor........................................................................................396-6704 Caregiver Support Resources Caregiver Support Program (www.agingkitsap.com) ................. 800-562-6418...............337-5700 Kinship Caregiver Support Program, Kitsap Community Resources ..................................................473-2032 Chore & Personal Care Services A Helping Hand ............................................877-281-7111 .....206-686-7440 Care Plus Home Health (www.mycareplus.com) .................877-670-0098...............373-8016 Catholic Community Services (www.ccsww.org)............................800-642-8019...............792-2066 Comfort Keepers (kitsap@comfortkeepers.com) .......877-885-4663...............373-5678 Fedelta Care Solutions (www.fedeltahomecare.com) .........877-333-3582.......206-362-2366 Geriatric Care Management Services Martha & Mary Home and Community Services (www.marthaandmary.org)....................................................779-7500 Haven In Allyn Homecare (haveninallyn.com)................................277-0636 Home Instead Senior Care (www.homeinstead.com/616) Kitsap County ............................................................................782-4663 Gig Harbor.......................................................................... 253-514-9201 Home Helpers @ Lutheran Community Services NW (www.lcsnw.org) ..............................800-378-5771...............377-5511 Kitsap Home Care Services (www.kitsaphomecare.com)..........888-449-9048...............377-7307 KWA Home Care (www.kwacares.org)............................................874-7132 Life Care Connections, LLC (www.lifecareconnections.com).............................................627-8264 Martha and Mary at Home (www.marthaandmary.org)............877-266-2856.............. 871-4425 The Personal Touch, LLC (www.thepersonaltouch4u.com) ..........895-3980 ResCare HomeCare Services (www.rescarehomecare.com)........698-8590 Visiting Angels (www.visitingangels.com) ............................800-365-4189 Medicaid Services Assisted Living/COPES/Adult Family Homes (DSHS) Home & Community Services..... 800-422-7114.......473-2299 All other Medicaid Services (DSHS) Community Services Office ..............800-338-7410...............473-2200 Volunteer Services Island Volunteer Caregivers of Bainbridge Island ..................206-842-4441

Lutheran Community Services Senior Companion Program............ 800-335-8433.......253-272-8433 Volunteer Chore Services ...........................866-246-3642..............405-0072 Hospice Franciscan Hospice and Palliative Care (www.hospice.FHShealth.org) ................ 866-969-7028......253-534-7000 Group Health Hospice Program Referral..................................800-332-5735 Hospice of Kitsap County (Office) (www.hospicekc.org) ...............698-4611 Adult Day Care Services Ashley Gardens of Bremerton (www.cascadeliving.com).............478-7277 Bay Pointe (www.baypointeretirement.com) ...............................373-9904 Elder & Adult Day Services .................................................................377-9810 Harbor House (www.harborhouseatlibertyshores.com) ..............779-5533 Marine Courte (www.marinecourte.com).......................................373-8551 Orchard Pointe.....................................................................................874-7400 The Ridge - Silverdale........................................................................697-4488 Medical Equipment Resources Airgas Sales & Service ............................... 800-626-1380...............373-2579 Apria Healthcare (www.apria.com) ........800-446-1447......360-698-0552 Farrell’s Home Health (www.farrellshomehealth.com) .... 800-233-6265...............377-0164 Hanger Clinic Prosthetics (www.hangerclinic.com) ................888-880-6976...............478-2087 Lincare.........................................................800-925-6404...............792-9414 ROTEC............................................................800-542-5775...............479-8811 Tim’s Home Medical Supplies (www.timshomemedicalsupplies.com)... 877-455-8543 .............782-1922 Personal Safety Medic Alert Bracelet (www.medicalert.org).......................... 800-432-5378 Phillips Lifeline (www.lifelinesys.com)...................................800-543-3546 Phillips Medication Dispensing Service...................................800-543-3546 ResponseLink ............................................................................ 866-809-4063 Safety Choice Medication Management SystemComfort Keepers ...............................877-885-4663...............373-5678 Safe Return (ID Bracelet/necklace) Alzheimer’s Association ....................800-272-3900......206-363-5500 Safetyline (www.marthaandmary.org) ..877-266-2856.............. 871-4425

FINANCIAL & CONSUMER RESOURCES

Attorney General Consumer Protection..................................800-551-4636 Apprisen (www.apprisen.com) ................800-244-1183.......253-588-1858 DSHS - Community Service Office.............800-338-7410 ..............473-2200 Office of Insurance Commissioner – Consumer Protection Hotline (www.insurance.wa.gov) ...............................................800-562-6900 Social Security Administration/Supplemental Security Income (www.ssa.gov)...................................................................800-772-1213 Washington State Dept. of Veterans Affairs (www.dva.wa.gov)....................................................................800-562-2308 Taxes AARP Tax Aide Program .............................................................888-227-7669 Internal Revenue Service ..........................800-829-1040...............698-5861 Property Tax Exemptions Kitsap County Assessor’s Office ....360-337-7160 Insurance Medicare Claims Information Hotline .....................................800-633-4227 Statewide Health Insurance Benefits Advisors (SHIBA) (www.insurance.wa.gov) ................................................800-562-6900 Washington State Insurance Commissioner & Fraud Hotline .................................................................800-562-6900 Home Repairs & Modification Bremerton Rehabilitation Loan Program – Housing Rehab. Program (Maria Villa) ................................................................................473-5375 Independent Living Program (Bainbridge Island only) ........ 206-842-2041 Housing Kitsap (www.housingkitsap.org)800-693-7070.............535-6100 USDA Service Center (loans and grants) (Port Angeles Office) .................................................................452-8994 Volunteer Chore Services (minor modification).............866-246-3642 ext:26..............405-0072 Home Weatherization & Energy Assistance Kitsap Community Resources (www.kcr.org) .................................377-0053 Energy Assistance Program......................................................479-1507 Weatherization Program..........................................................377-0053 Puget Sound Energy Efficiency Hotline ...................................800-562-1482

LIVING SITUATIONS

Housing Referral Service Housing Solutions Center of Kitsap County (KCR)...........................473-2035 Housing Resources Board ......................................................... 206-842-1909 Peninsula 2-1-1 (www.win211.org)...........877-211-9274.........................211 Veteran Affairs Supportive Housing (VASH) ...........................253-583-2825 Senior Information & Assistance.............. 800-562-6418...............337-5700

Shelters ALIVE House 24-hr Hotline .............. 800-500-5513...............479-1980 ALIVE House (Bremerton).........................................................479-5118 ALIVE House (Bainbridge Island) 24-hr Hotline ........... 800-500-5513 206-780-2931 ALIVE House (Suquamish).................................................206-780-2931 Bainbridge Helpline House (referrals) (www.helplinehouse.org)................................................206-842-7621 Benedict House (Male) .......................................................................377-6136 Crisis Line (referrals to shelters) (www.crisisclinicofthepeninsulas.org) 800-843-4793.........479-3033 Salvation Army (Assistance) ..............................................................373-5550 St. Vincent DePaul (Female) ..............................................................479-7017 Subsidized Housing Bremerton Housing Authority (www.bremertonhousing.org) ...479-3694 Tara Heights................................................................................377-0232 Bay Vista Communities ............................................................479-4600 Housing Kitsap (www. housingkitsap.org) 800-693-7070 ...........535-6100 Finch Place (Bainbridge Island) Fjord Manor (Poulsbo) Golden Tides I, II, & III (Silverdale) Madrona Manor (Port Orchard) Orchard Bluff (Port Orchard) Port Orchard Vista (Port Orchard) Alternative Subsidized Housing BAINBRIDGE ISLAND Finch Place ................................................................................. 535-6100 Island Terrace......................................................................206-842-1280 Rhododendron Apartments/ 500 Madison...................206-842-8144 Virginia Villa ......................................................................206-842-5482 Winslow Arms ....................................................................206-842-3611 BREMERTON Charter House............................................................................ 377-0808 Eastwynd Apartments.............................................................479-3444 Frank Chopp Place .....................................................................377-7744 Marion Court Apartments ........................................................377-8806 Max Hale Center..........................................................................792-2117 Park Place....................................................................................698-7345 Pinewood Manor .......................................................................377-4977 Shadow Creek Apartments ......................................................377-0232 Tamarack Apartments ..............................................................377-0232 The Firs ...................................................................................... 373-8479 The Vintage (www.vintagehousing.com)............................. 479-8300 KINGSTON Kingston Ridge...........................................................................297-7003 Robinswood ...............................................................................297-4144 Time Square Apartments .........................................................297-7188 PORT ORCHARD Cedar Heights .............................................................................876-5320 Conifer Ridge ..............................................................................871-2869 Heritage/Viewmont East Apartments....................................895-1454 Conifer Woods Apartments......................................................871-5581 Village Green .............................................................................871-4883 POULSBO Hostmark Apartments I, II, III ..................................................779-4687 Fjord Manor ................................................................................535-6100 Fjord Vista II ................................................................................535-6100 Peninsula Glen Apartments .....................................................697-3942 Winton Wood Apartments.......................................................779-3763 Wood Creek Apartments .......................................................... 697-1824 SILVERDALE Danwood Apartments ..............................................................662-1100 Martin Avenue ...........................................................................377-0053 Silvercrest Apartments .............................................................692-4233 The Vintage – Silverdale (www.vintagehousing.com)...................................................308-9600 Retirement Apartments BAINBRIDGE ISLAND Winslow Manor.................................................................206-842-2500 BREMERTON Bay Pointe Retirement Community (www.baypointeretirement.com) .........................................373-9904 Canterbury Manor (www.episcopalretirement.org) .............................................377-0113 Claremont Senior Living ( www.meridiansenior.com).....................................................377-1717 The Vintage (www.vintagehousing.com)............................. 479-8300 The Willows ............................................................................... 479-8522 GIG HARBOR The Lodge at Mallard’s Landing (www.thelodge-gigharbor.com) ....................................253-235-3552

Spring Time of Your Life 2015 | 9

2015 24th Annual PORT ORCHARD Park Vista Retirement, Assisted Living and Memory Care Unit (administratorPKV@livebsl.com).............................................871-2323 Stafford Healthcare at Ridgemont (www.staffordcare.com).........................................................876-4461 Washington Veterans Home ............877-838-7787.............. 895-4700 POULSBO Liberty Shores (www.libertyshores.com) ..............................779-5533 Martha & Mary Retirement Apartments – The Ebenezer (www.marthaandmary.org)....................................................598-4357 SILVERDALE Country Meadows (www.encorecommunities.com) ..........692-4480 Clearbrook Inn (www.encorecommunities.com)..................692-1228 Crista Shores (www.cristaseniors.com)...800-722-4135 .....698-0900 The Vintage (www.vintagehousing.com).............................308-9600 Assisted Living BAINBRIDGE ISLAND Madison Avenue House ...................................................206-842-3694 Madrona House (www.bainbridgeseniorliving.com) ..............................206-842-2500 Wyatt House......................................................................206-780-3646 BREMERTON The Cottage ................................................................................373-0553 Ashley Gardens of Bremerton (Memory Care) .......................478-7277 Bay Pointe (www.baypointeretirement.com)......................373-9904 Bay Vista Commons (www.bayvistacommons.com) ..............................................377-8300 Claremont Senior Living ( www.meridiansenior.com).....................................................377-1717 Cypress Gardens .........................................................................479-4130 Marine Courte (Memory Care) (www.marinecourte.com) ......................................................373-8551 GIG HARBOR Brookdale Harbor Bay (Memory Care) (www.brookdale.com).................................................... 253-858-7790 Brookdale @ Gig Harbor (Independent and Assisted Living) (www.brookdale.com).....................253-858-5300 Olympic Alzheimer’s Residence .......................................253-851-5306 The Lodge at Mallard’s Landing (www.thelodge-gigharbor.com) (Independent and Assisted Living).................................253-858-4990 PORT ORCHARD Orchard Pointe Memory Care Community (Dementia Care).........................................................................874-7400 Park Vista Retirement, Assisted Living and Memory Care Unit (administratorPKV@livebsl.com).............................................871-2323 Stafford Suites (www.staffordcare.com) ................................874-1212 Sydney House ............................................................................876-0980 Washington Veterans Home (www.dva.wa.gov) ..

877-838-7787............................................................................ 895-4700 POULSBO Harbor House (Memory Care) (www.northwestcare.com) .....................................................779-5533 (Memory Care) at Montclair Park (Assisted Living) April 2015- Brookdale................................................................697-2223 Liberty Shores Assisted Living (www.northwestcare.com) .....................................................779-5533 SILVERDALE Clearbrook Inn (www.encorecommunities.com)..................692-1228 Crista Shores (www.cristaseniors.com)..................................613-3514 The Ridge (Memory Care)(www.encoreridge.com).............697-4488 Skilled Nursing Facilities Kitsap County Long Term Care Ombudsman...800-562-6418 ......337-5714 Nursing Home Residents Neglect Hotline ..............................800-562-6078 BAINBRIDGE ISLAND Island Health & Rehabilitation Center............................206-842-4765 Messenger House Care Center......................................... 206-842-2654 BREMERTON Bremerton Health & Rehabilitation Center ............................377-3951 Forest Ridge Health & Rehabilitation Center .........................479-4747 Stafford Healthcare at Belmont (www.staffordcare.com)..........................................................479-1515 PORT ORCHARD Life Care Center of Port Orchard (www.lcca.com) .................876-8035 Stafford Healthcare at Ridgemont (www.staffordcare.com).........................................................876-4461 Washington Veterans Home (www.dva.wa.gov)............................877-838-7787.............. 895-4700 POULSBO Martha & Mary Health Services (www.marthaandmary.org)....................................................779-7500

Older Americans Conference Resource Directory SILVERDALE Northwoods Lodge (www.encorecommunities.com) ............................................698-3930 Adult Family Homes Adult Family Home List (fortress.wa.gov/dshs/adsaapps/lookup/AFHPubLookup) Home & Community Services (DSHS).......800-422-7114...............473-2299 Senior Information & Assistance (Call for a list)..800-562-6418...337-5700

TRANSPORTATION RESOURCES

Ambulance Services Air Lift Northwest ...................................................................... 800-426-2430 Bainbridge Island: Bainbridge Island Ambulance, Inc. ..........206-842-2676 Olympic Ambulance ..................................800-445-2257...............377-7777 Cabulance Services Around the Sound Transportation (dispatch@around-the-sound.net).........................................253-858-7088 Northwest Transport Inc. ..........................................................800-600-9225 Olympic Ambulance ..................................800-445-2257...............377-7777 ParaTransit Services ParaTransit Services ............................................................................ 377-7176 Transit Services Kitsap Transit ...............................................800-501-7433...............373-2877 Kitsap ACCESS (reservation line) .............. 800-422-2877...............479-7272 Dial – a – Ride (limited service)...............................................800-422-2877 Volunteer Transportation Angel Flight West (www.angelflightwest.org) ....................888-4AN-ANGL or 888-426-2643 Island Volunteer Caregivers of Bainbridge Island ..................206-842-4441 Volunteer Chore Services ...........................866-246-3642..............405-0072

COUNSELING RESOURCES

Counseling Referral (Crisis Line) ...............800-843-4793...............479-3033 Helpline House of Bainbridge Island (www.helplinehouse.org).........................................................206-842-7621 Kitsap Mental Health Services – Access Line .................................405-4010 Senior Information & Assistance (referral) 800-562-6418 ............337-5700 Substance Abuse Counseling ADATSA Information (Bremerton Community Services Office) 877-501-2233 ...............473-2200 Al-Anon/ Alateen (www.kitsap-al-anon.org) .......................800-344-2666 Alcoholics Anonymous.............................................................. 800-562-7455 Cascade Outpatient Chemical Dependency Recovery Program .......................................................698-7267 Crisis Triage Services at Kitsap Recovery Center..............................337-4625 Gamblers Anonymous................................................................855-222-5542 Kitsap Recovery Center.......................................................................337-4625 Narcotics Anonymous ................................................................877-861-6156 Nicotine Anonymous .................................................................877-879-6422 Senior Information & Assistance (referral) 800-562-6418 ............337-5700 WA Tabacco Quitline ..................................................................800-784-8669 Substance Abuse Rehabilitation Program (US Navy Retirees & Family) ..............................................................475-5350

SUPPORT GROUP RESOURCES

Alzheimer & Caregiver Support Alzheimer’s Association, Western & Central WA Chapter ................................................800-848-7097 Poulsbo – Martha and Mary Health Center .......................... 649-6793 Toll-Free Telephone Support Group ...............................800-848-7097 Alzheimer’s Caregivers Support Group (Harrison Medical Center)........................................................ 744-6920 BREMERTON Ashley Gardens of Bremerton ..................................................478-7277 Canterbury Manor .....................................................................377-0113 Marine Courte at Bay Pointe (www.marinecourte.com) ....373-9904 Memory Connection @ Lutheran Community Services NW (www.lcsnw.org).......................................................................377-5511 PORT ORCHARD Life Care Center of Port Orchard (www.lcca.com) .................876-8035 Orchard Pointe Memory Care...................................................874-7400 POULSBO Harbor House (www.harborhouseatlibertyshores.com) .....779-5533 Martha & Mary Health Services (www.marthaandmary.org)....................................................779-7500 Bereavement Compassionate Friends .......................................692-0217 or 360-6204831 Harrison Pallative Care Team.............................................................744-5618 Hospice of Kitsap County Bereavement Services (www.hospiceofkitsapcounty.org).........................................698-4611

Island Volunteer Caregivers – Grief Support Group ..............206-842-4441 Survivors of Suicide (scarletto02@q.com) ...............................360-871-9136 Understanding Grief...........................................................................744-5618 Cancer Support After Breast Cancer Diagnosis Hotline (www.abcdbreastcancersupport.org)............................800-977-4121 American Cancer Society (www.cancer.org)..............................800-227-2345.......253-272-5767 Discovery Shop ....................................................................................613-4139 Group Health ..............................................................................253-274-4600 Harrison Med. Center Cancer Support....................................866-844-WELL Kitsap Cancer Services.......................................................................204-6399 LiveStrong...................................................866-673-7205 Look Good, Feel Better (Breast Cancer Support)800-227-2345 Men’s Cancer Caregiver Support Group (Harrison Health Partners)........................................................598-7500 Cancer Caregiver Support Group - Silverdale .................................744-4625 Susan G. Komen for the Cure ....................................................877-465-6636 Women & Cancer Support Group - Poulsbo ....................................598-7500 Additional Support Groups/Resources AIDS Hotline.................................................................................800-272-2437 ALIVE: Battered Women & Children .................................................479-5118 American Diabetes Association Support Groups (www.diabetes.org)..........................................................888-342-2383 American Lung Association ......................................................800-586-4872 Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (Lou Gehrig’s Disease) (www.alsa.org)..................................800-782-4747......253-254-8909 ALS Support Group .................................... 866-786-7257......253-254-8909 ALS Virtual Support Group (http://webwa.alsa.org) ALS Online Chatroom for PALS (http://webwa.alsa.org) Arc of Kitsap & Jefferson Counties – Parent to Parent...................377-3473 Arthritis Foundation ...................................................................888-391-9389 Harrison Sleep Disorder Center and Kitsap Pulmonary and Sleep Medicine ...................................792-6812 Brain, Head Injury Support (Harrison Rehab Silverdale)...............744-8980 Caregiver Support Center.......................... 800-562-6418...............337-5700 Caregiver Support Group: First Lutheran Church............................876-3901 CHADD (Children & Adults with Attention Deficit Disorder)..........779-5362 Compassionate Friends (Relatives dealing with grief) (www.compasionatefriends.org)...................................877-969-0010 Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation of America – NW...................... 425-451-8455 Diabetes and Nutrition Counseling Center ......................................744-6910 Diabetes Support Group- Poulsbo ................................................... 692-4900 Epilepsy Online Support Group .................800-752-3509.......206-547-4551 Grandparent Support .................................................................206-842-1616 Kidney Dialysis Patient- Caregiver Support Group..........................479-5908 Kinship Care (Kitsap Community Resources) ..................................377-0053 Kitsap Recovery Center.......................................................................337-4625 Kitsap Sexual Assault Center Women’s Support Group .................479-1788 Multiple Sclerosis Society Hotline (www.nmss.org).............800-344-4867 Bainbridge Island............................................206-780-4459/598-3873 Bremerton ..................................................................................479-1324 Port Orchard ...............................................................................895-3392 National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) .....................................377-2910 NAMI –Bremerton..............................................................................377-8509 NAMI- Poulsbo ....................................................................................697-2142 NAMI-Bainbridge Island ...........................................................206-898-6092 NAMI- Silverdale .........................................................................206-753-7000 Northwest Kidney Foundation/Center.....206-292-2771.......206-292-5351 Ostomy Support Group .............................................................800-826-0826 Parkinson’s Disease Association (www.apdaparkinson.org) ........................

800-223-2732 Parkinson’s Disease Support Group (Harrison Port Orchard)............................................................744-6220 Poulsbo .....................................................................................779-7178 Polio Support Group for Kitsap County ...................................800-609-5538 Post Traumatic Stress Disorder .................................................800-273-8255 Better Breathers (Respiratory Support)..........................................744-6687 The Ridge – Silverdale (Dementia/Alzheimer’s/Caregiver Support) .........................697-4488 Stroke Support Group (Harrison Silverdale Rehab) ........................337-8980 Take off Pounds Sensibly (TOPS) (www.tops.org) ...............................800-932-8677.............. 275-2179 Veteran’s Caregiver Support Line (www.caregiver.va.gov)...855-260-3274

SENIOR OPPORTUNITIES

Volunteer Opportunities Meals on Wheels Kitsap (www.mealsonwheelskitsap.org) ..888-877-8511...............377-8511 Elder and Adult Day Services .............................................................377-9810

Harrison Medical Center Volunteer Services................................... 744-6570 Hospice of Kitsap County (www.hospicekc.org)............................698-4611 Island Health & Rehabilitation .................................................206-842-4765 Kitsap County Volunteer Services Coordinator (www.kitsapgov.com/volunteer)............................................337-4650 Long Term Care Ombudsman................... 800-562-6418...............337-5714 Senior Companion Program @ Lutheran Community Services NW 800-335-8433 .................................. 253-272-8433 Martha & Mary Health Services (www.marthaandmary.org) .....779-7500 United Way (www.unitedwaykitsap.org).......................................377-8505 Volunteer Chore Services ...........................866-246-3642..............405-0072 Education Kitsap Computing Seniors ( www.kitsapcomputingseniors.org) .................697-6681/ 779-0819 Kitsap Regional Library (www.krl.org)...877-883-9900.............. 405-9100 Goodwill- Silverdale .......................................................................... 698-6776 Employment Foster Grandparents (Catholic Community Services) ....... 866-246-3642..............405-0072 Kitsap Community Resources ...........................................................478-2301 Unemployment Benefits ..........................................................800-318-6022 Vocational Rehabilitation Tacoma ..............................................800-548-1406......253-983-6500 Silverdale ...................................................................................698-4360 Washington State Senior Employment Program ...........................337-4756 WorkSource Kitsap County ................................................................337-4810 Senior Organizations & Centers Bainbridge Island Senior Community Center..........................206-842-1616 Bremerton Senior Recreation Center (www.ci.bremerton.wa.us) .....................................................473-5357 Givens Senior Center (South Kitsap) .................................................337-5734 Kingston Super Seniors / Kingston Community Center .................297-2150 Kitsap County School Retirees Association...................................... 871-2415 NARFE (Retired Federal Employees) (www.narfe.org) ......... 800-627-3394 North Kitsap Senior Center ................................................................779-5702 Port Gamble S’Klallam Elders’ Center...............................................297-9827 Silverdale Community Center............................................................337-5350 Suquamish Tribe Elders’ Lodge .........................................................598-3135 Legal & Protective Resources Look in your local yellow pages under “Associations”, “Attorneys”, “Lawyers”, “Elder Law”, or “Estate Planning” (visit: www. washingtonlawhelp.org) Adult Protective Services (Home & Community Services).....877-734-6277 Dispute Resolution Center ........................ 800-377-6583..............698-0968 Office of Public Guardianship Services – WA State Courts (www.courts.wa.gov) ...............................................................753-3365 Kitsap County Long Term Care Ombudsman...800-562-6418 ......337-5714 Kitsap County Volunteer Attorney Services.....................................479-6125 Northwest Justice Project (CLEAR) ...........................................888-201-1014 CLEAR*Sr. (60 and older, regardless of income).............888-387-7111 Nursing Home Complaint Line .................................................800-562-6078 Senior Legal Services (GS Jones Law Group, PS) .............................876-9221 Veterans Project ......................................................................... 855-657-8387 Washington Disability Rights (www.disabilityrightswa.org).........................................800-562-2702 Washington State Bar Attorney Referral .........................................373-2426 This directory is a limited listing of resources and services. If you cannot locate what you need, further information may be available. Call Senior Information & Assistance at 360-337-5700 or 1-800-562-6418.

The information contained herein is provided as a public service with the understanding that Kitsap County Government, Senior Information & Assistance and the Long Term Care Alliance makes no warranties, either expressed or implied, concerning the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of the information or the suitability of any listing for any purpose. Kitsap County Government, Senior Information & Assistance and the Long Term Care Alliance do not endorse any commercial providers or their products. This directory is a limited listing of resources and services. If you cannot locate what you need, further information may be available. Call Senior Information & Assistance at 360-3375700.

This information contained herein is provided as a public service with the understanding that Kitsap County Government, Senior Information & Assistance and the Long Term Care Alliance makes no warranties, either expressed or implied, concerning the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of the information or the suitability of any listing for any purpose. Kitsap County Government, Senior Information & Assistance and the Long Term Care Alliance do not endorse any commercial providers or their products.

10 | Spring Time of Your Life 2015

Anderson Denture & Dental marks 20 years of service Having a dental and denture clinic all in one location has been one reason why they’ve seen success in their business

By LESLIE KELLY

lkelly@soundpublishing.com

I

f it had not of been for Bruce and Wanda Anderson being invited to visit friends in Sequim back in 1995, Anderson Denture & Dental Center might never have come to Poulsbo.

“We came out for a visit,” Wanda Anderson said. “We rented a car and drove more than 3,000 miles throughout Washington state. When we drove through Poulsbo, Bruce said ‘We’re home.’ ” Bruce is of Norwegian ancestry. His grandparents immigrated to the U.S. and Bruce says he still remembers his grandmother speaking Norwegian, telling stories of seeing the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.

The Andersons found Poulsbo to be charming and friendly. On that same trip, they drove past a building that was under construction and stopped to talk to the owner.

“Right then, we knew this would be our office,” Wanda said.

And today, 20 years later, they are in the same location They are very proud of their dental office and think their “patient centered” orientation has been their success.

Having a denturist and a dentist on staff offers quality care and convenience for the denture patients.

Wanda’s sincerity was apparent when she said they are careful to discuss the treatment with the patients for both those patients needing general dental services and those needing a partial or denture.

“Patient education is imperative,” she said. “We discuss everything with the patient all along the way.”

Although the materials for fabricating dentures have changed during the past 20 years, Bruce prides himself on the fact that he still makes every set of dentures with his own hands.

Bruce and Wanda Anderson have been in business at the Anderson Denture & Dental Center in Poulsbo for 20 years. Retirement may be around the corner.

Staff photo “I believe in making each individual denture by hand,” he said.

“He likes the feel of doing it himself, a denture is his artistic canvass,” Wanda

Staff photo

Bruce Anderson holds a set of dentures he made.

said.

Science in the industry has created better materials to work with,” Bruce said. “The materials have improved greatly allowing the denture or partial denture to look more natural, youthful and alive.”

Anderson received his bachelor’s degree from Covenant College, Chattanooga, Tennessee; and earned his denturitry diploma from George Brown College. He studied for his denturitry certification at the University of Florida School of Dentistry, Idaho State University and the American Denturist Academy.

Anderson got his interest in dentures from his father who was a “mechanical dentist,” an individual who did general dentistry as well as the laboratory work fabricating appliances.

Bruce worked the summers and between his high school and college semesters in his father’s lab learning the process of making dentures.

“My dad was a master and the skills he taught me have proved invaluable,” Bruce said.

One of the unique things about Anderson Denture & Dental Center is the longevity of its staff. Wanda noted that most staff have been with them 10 years or more. Dr. Martin Messah came to the practice in 2013.

“We’re like family here,” she said. “We really work well together.”

Bruce Anderson said he and Dr. Messah work well together because they respect each other.

“Our relationship is fantastic and the patient gets the best of both worlds,” Bruce said.

They emphasize patient confidence and say they achieve that through educating patients as work progresses on their dental needs.

Wanda and Bruce were college sweethearts.

“I was from the south and he was from Boston,” Wanda said. “I was a cheerleader and I was cheering ‘Get the Ball ya’ll, Get the Ball.’

Bruce tells the story that he asked his friend, “Who is that and what’s she saying?” He had not heard a southern accent much.

Although no firm retirement date has been set, Bruce just celebrated his 73rd birthday.

In retirement, he plans to keep up with his hobbies — his 1951 Mexicali Maroon Ford Victoria, one of seven cars he’s rebuilt, and his passion for flintlock black powder rifles.

“I’m looking forward to his retirement,” Wanda said. “But if he has his way, he’ll still be here working when he’s 100. He loves work and especially enjoys the stories and adventures told by his older patients.”

ABOUT THE STAFF Dr. Messah obtained his DDS at the University of California, San Francisco and completed a one-year internship at Ohio State in oral maxillofacial surgery.

He has done missionary work in Haiti with the Christian Medical & Dental Association team.

Wanda is the office manager at the center. Minjee Fitzpatrick and Elaine Bowen are dental assistants. Vickie Thacker is the insurance specialist assisting patients.

The office is at 19410 8th Ave. NE, Suite 102, Poulsbo, 360-779-1566.

Among the work they do as well as full and partial dentures is general dental needs, crowns, restoration, emergency care, denture relines and repairs. They accept most insurance and they have payment plans.

Spring Time of Your Life 2015 | 11

Anderson Dental and Denture has been helping people smile since 1995 • Denturist & Dentist on Staff • Crowns & Bridges • Cosmetic & General Dentistry • Extractions

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Instead of Stuff”

12 | Spring Time of Your Life 2015

Participating businesses offer discounts of 15-50% on tickets or gift certificates for: • Music • Plays • Museums • 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

Kitsap County Aging Seniors, We’re here for you!

If you are a senior seeking information about retaining your independence, local programs, planning for your future or any other aging-related topics, please contact Senior Information & Assistance for help over the phone or to request an appointment.

Caregivers, We’re here for you too!

Contact the Caregiver Support Center, a program of Kitsap County Aging & Long Term Care.

Information about these programs and other services of Kitsap County Aging & Long Term Care is available by calling (360) 337-5700 or 1-800-562-6418 or visit us online at www.agingkitsap.com

Are you cAring for or helping A loved one?

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 & Long Term Care Services as a way to 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

You may be able to save as much as $4000 a year with the following programs: The Medicare Savings Programs can pay Part A and Part B premiums and other expenses like deductibles and copayments.

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

of family or friends:

• Would you like “Give Experiences more information?

Instead of• Stuff” To explore options for help?

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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

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

Your business can be recognized on of yourself Take care the Waste Free Holidays website as taking of your loved one well while as print ads and acare brochure.

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Medicare Savings Program Your gross monthly income/assets are less than $1,324/$7,280 (individuals) or $1,792/$10,930 (couples) Medicare Part D Extra Help Your gross monthly income/assets are less than $1,471/$13,640 (individuals) or $1,991/$27,250 (couples)

Visit the Kitsap County Aging & Long Term Care booth at the conference for more information and assistance in applying.

Or call Senior Information & Assistance at 360-337-5700

Spring Time of Your Life 2015 | 13

& Long Term Care

We want to share this message about safe Medication Management Elders and Medication

People age 65 and older consume more prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) medicines than any other age group. Older people tend to have more long-term, chronic illnesses – such as arthritis, diabetes, high blood pressure and heart disease – than do younger people. Because they may have a number of diseases or disabilities at the same time, it is common for older people to take many different drugs. This may be riskier for older adults, especially when several medicines are used at one time. Taking different medicines is not always easy to do right. It may be hard to remember what each medicine is for, how you should take it and when you should take it. Working with your pharmacist and healthcare provider in addition to taking charge of your own understanding or ensuring a caregiver assists you as needed can help provide a safe and effective means to ensure compliance with a medicine routine and avoid many of the complications from taking multiple medications.

• Develop a medication management form to keep track of both prescription and over the counter (OTC) medicines. Be sure to include the physicians name, dosage and times of day to take it. A copy is also given to the family caregiver.

• Check labels and all written information to make sure it is for the correct person and the correct directions.

• Check expiration dates and properly dispose of expired medications.

• Notify physician immediately if any problems occur.

• Watch for any interaction and notify physician if any occur.

• Ensure physicians and your phamacist reviews medication and the medication management form regularly.

• Establish reminders to ensure all dosages are taken appropriately and in compliance with physicians’ orders.

When patients, caregivers, doctors and pharmacists function as a team, medication-related problems can be avoided, contributing to better outcomes and improved daily functioning. Here are some tips for managing medication use:

Understand the medication

Find out as much as possible about every medication: the name, dosage, frequency and side effects. Understand why it has been prescribed, and ask the doctor to write down instructions for its use.

Follow the directions

Following the directions of the medication is imperative to ensure safety. Read all instructions carefully. Dispense only the recommended dosage at one time and finish the entire prescription if instructed. There may be foods or drinks to avoid while taking the medicine. Or the medicine may have to be taken with food or a whole glass of water.

Have complete medical records

Make sure to provide complete medical records to your loved one’s health care providers. Medical history records should contain surgeries, immunizations, allergies and family health history (i.e. diabetes, colon cancer). Records can be sent by a previous provider if needed.

Did you know?

Your local Area Agency on Aging, Kitsap County Aging & Long Term Care, sponsors Medication Management Senior Drug Education events. Please contact us if you want to be on a list of individuals interested in attending upcoming free workshops. Call (360) 337-5700 or (800) 562-6418.

Visit us online!

Click the medication management link at www.agingkitsap.com for information featuring topics such as Getting the Most from your Medications, Medication Do’s and Dont’s, Medication Safety Tips and more! Check back often for event updates and Kitsap County Aging & Long Term Care activities.

You’re invited!

Come see us at the Kitsap County Aging & Long Term Care booth at the Older American’s Conference Wednesday, May 13th! We’re featuring our Senior Information & Assistance, Caregiver Support and local Statewide Health Insurance Benefits Advisors programs. We will be available to provide materials, answer questions and help to schedule one to one assistance appointments.

Pick up your FREE medication management pill box organizer and FREE medication management materials including informational brochures, medication management charts (supplies are limited). Information about programs and local resources that help with the cost of medications will also be available.

Assistance services or online support includes:

• BenefitsCheckUp RX screening help! www.benefitscheckup.org • Insurance coverage options and information from your local Statewide Health Insurance Benefits Advisors Program! www.insurance.wa.gov • Research and compare Medicare plans and options and Medicare Part D information! www.medicare.gov • Information about and screening for support for family caregivers. www.aasa.dshs.wa.gov/caregiving/survey

Need help understanding your health care coverage?

Your Statewide Health Insurance Benefits Advisor is as close as your telephone!

If you need help understanding your current health care coverage or you’re trying to find a new plan, call:

1-800-562-6900 Statewide Health Insurance Benefits Advisors (SHIBA) SHIBA is a free and unbiased service of the:

SHIBA is sponsored locally by Kitsap County Aging and Long-Term Care

Protect yourself from fraud!

Safeguard your personal information. Never give your Medicare, Medicaid, or Social Security number to strangers. To report or discuss possible fraud or scams, call: SHIBA at 1-800-562-6900 or go to: www.insurance.wa.gov

Ad funded by grants from the centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services and U.S. Administration on Aging

14 | Spring Time of Your Life 2015

Spring Time of Your Life 2015 | 15

A gift for your family: defining your end-of-life choices

By BETTY HERMAN

Martha & Mary Outreach Coordinator

A

s outreach coordinator for Martha & Mary, I begin most of my talks about end of life decisions by handing out a 9-inch by 12-inch white envelopes to each participant. With a brightly colored marker, I instruct participants to address the envelope with “To:” and “From.” Inside this envelope, they will be placing a great gift.

What is this gift? It is directions for decision making on saving your life, or care when life is ending.

you take to the pharmacist, which is signed by the doctor telling the pharmacist that it is OK to dispense a particular medicine. The POLST form tells the EMTs what they can and can’t do if you are unconscious and can’t make decisions for yourself.

There are many guides to help direct your thinking about short and long term health care. One tool is the Five Wishes Document. (Five Wishes is a trademark name and program of Aging with Dignity. For more information go to www.agingwithdignity.org or call 850-681-2010.)

It’s a gift because anyone who you’ve selected to be responsible for carrying out your end-of-life decisions needs to have the information that is unique to you so they will represent your wishes.

Simply put, you wouldn’t ask anyone to make care decisions without telling them what you want.

Most of the time I find that few people are prepared.

Families who have muddled through, guessed at or argued about care of a loved one will affirm how important it is to have these directions. The person you are asking to make care decision for you is known as a health care agent.

Sometimes people put off writing things down because they know they will most likely want to make changes down the road.

One of the documents your health care agent will want is a a Physician’s Order for Life Sustaining Treatment, or POLST. It is important to have a detailed Health Care Directive. This document outlines choices many people make and allows you to add or delete your individual choices on issues such as the kind of medical treatment you want or don’t want; pain management and possible side effects on mental clarity; how you want people to treat you; and what you want your loved ones to know.

The document provides a form for appointing a health care agent, along with a backup person. Once completed, the form must be witnessed by two people.

The POLST gives immediate information to the Emergency Medical Technicians when 911 is called.

This is a bright green form that is in your home, usually on the refrigerator, that paramedics will refer to until your health care agent arrives or is contacted. The POLST must be discussed with and signed by your physician to be legal. It is just like the prescription

They haven’t had “the conversation” about end of life decisions because either their doctor won’t initiate it, or the kids bring it up and they reject it, or they bring it up and the kids reject it. It’s emotional.

It’s important to remember to update your information with your health care agent and as life circumstances change. Updates can be done at anytime. Making sure you’ve specified what you want is crucial. It can always be changed later if needed.

In selecting a health care agent, to whom you will be addressing the envelope, choose someone who will be able to say that it is time to end your life if needed. Choose someone who will be able to handle the family dynamics.

That person must be 18 years old or older, who clearly understands your wishes, and who can be assertive, should the need arise. It cannot be your physician or anyone affiliated with a health care facility where you are a patient at the time you sign your advance directive.

Other documents that are essential are a financial will that dictates what will happen to your stuff, who will inherit the what portion of your money, what will happen to real property, who gets which pieces of jewelry, etc.

It is important that this document be drawn up with the advice of a lawyer and sometimes a financial advisor, too.

There are legal and tax implications to divesting your assets and getting good advice is critical to minimizing the paperwork and potential family conflicts after one dies.

A third document you want in the envelope is a list of current accounts and such things as user names and passwords for bank accounts. It is important that this be kept up to date and include the location of documents such as wills and insurance policies.

In taking control of your end-of-life decisions, everyone should have a Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care, the Physician’s Order for Life Sustaining Treatment, a Health Care Directive, and a financial will that have been reviewed by an attorney, signed, notarized, and are on file with an attorney, with copies in the hands of your health care agent.

If your Health Care Agent is different than the executor of your estate, then you may want to keep your financial will separate from the POLST and Living Will.

Copies of Five Wishes are available from most Hospice locations and online. Other resources include “My Personal Planner,” by Margie Jenkins; “You only Die Once,” by Margie Jenkins, and “Grandma’s Yellow Pie Plate” by Marlene S. Sturn, which addresses decisions about who gets what and how to avoid conflict.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Betty Herman is a certified senior adviser and outreach coordinator for Martha & Mary throughout Kitsap County. She hosts informational sessions about end of life decisions periodically. For more, email her at bherman@ marthaandmary.org.

Martha & Mary can play a key role in the end of life process for families in the West Sound region. They provide Long Term Care, Memory Care and Rehabilitation services at their Poulsbo campus and work closely with Hospice providers both at the Health Center and in client homes.

life

The time of your

Spring 2015

is published in spring and fall by Sound Publishing.

For information about upcoming special publications, call 360-779-4464.

YOUR GUIDE TO MATURE LIVING, HEALTH, FINANCES AND LIFESTYLE

Publisher: Lori Maxim Special Publications Editor: Leslie Kelly Contributors: Betty Herman Advertising Director: Donna Etchey Sales Representatives: Jennifer Zuver, Frank Portello, Annie LaValle, Billi Jean Gurnsey, Marleen Martinez Creative Services Manager: Bryon Kempf Marketing Artists: Mark Gillespie, Kelsey Thomas, John Rodriguez, Vanessa Calverley Sponsors: Peninsula Hearing, Peninsula Cancer Center, Anderson Denture & Dental and Liberty Shores Copyright 2015 Sound Publishing

16 | Spring Time of Your Life 2015

The Lyric: It’s hearing’s latest technological marvel

By PENINSULA HEARING

A

new year is well under way and with it an exciting adventure for those of us at Peninsula Hearing.

We are now offering a new and different concept in hearing care called the Lyric.

Lyric has been around for a few years, however Dr. Megan Nightingale at Peninsula Hearing in Poulsbo is the first hearing professional on the peninsula to offer Lyric. The Lyric concept is one similar to extended wear contact lenses for the eye.

Lyric is still the only “extended wear” hearing device available. The concept centers on a very small device (about the size of a pinto bean) that is placed deep in the ear canal within about 4 millimeters of the ear drum.

The device stays put in the

Megan Nightingale is an expert in hearing and has recently introduced the Lyric concept to what her practice offers to its patients.

Contributed photo

canal until the battery dies which can be up to 4 months.

The device is then taken out of the ear canal by a trained pro-

fessional and a new one placed back in the canal.

The device is designed to be worn 24 hours a day — seven

days a week. While the thought of a traditional hearing aid being worn 24/7 is not very pleasant, Lyric when properly placed in the ear canal can hardly be felt. The mechanics of the Lyric is surrounded by a spongy material that allows moisture to escape and the ear canal to breathe which is very important for ear canal health.

The advantage of having a hearing device placed so close to the ear drum is that the sound is very natural because not as much amplification is needed as with a traditional device.

Also, by virtue of the placement of Lyric the brain can take advantage of the ear’s natural background noise fighting capabilities. Lyric is very convenient for the user as well.

One does not have to change batteries or take the device on and off the ear. The device

can be adjusted for volume and turned into what is called “sleep mode” for nighttime use by using a magnet tool.

Lyric is sold on a subscription basis for one, two or three years at a time. The makers of Lyric and Dr. Nightingale do state that Lyric is clearly not for everyone.

There are some people who cannot have anything in their ear canal and some whose hearing issues are so great that it is beyond the amplification ability of the device.

“For the people who have tried it and liked it however, it is a miracle — they rave about it,” Dr. Nightingale said.

If you are interested in learning more, please give us a call for a complimentary evaluation and demonstration. Call 360697-3061 or 800-540-8698 to set an appointment.

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Spring Time of Your Life 2015 | 17

With a bit of time and effort, seniors can get fit Fitness trainer says you’re never too old to begin a program to get in shape and add years to your life

By LESLIE KELLY

lkelly@soundpublishing.com

W

hen Ron Canfield was a boy, he’d be the one organizing relays around the cul de sac where he grew up.

In high school, he was an athlete, running track and playing basketball.

So it’s no wonder that now, just shy of 59 years old, he’s a personal trainer, working through the YMCA in Bremerton and Silverdale.

And one of his specialties is working with anyone age 60 and older, making sure that if they’re starting on a fitness routine, it is something that’s safe for them and matches their skill level.

“It’s just very rewarding to see people achieve their fitness goals,” Canfield said. “Just the look on their faces when they complete something that they didn’t think they could do.”

For Canfield, fitness was something he just did as part of high school and college athletics. In his early 20s, he kept that up. But then his career got busy. As a nuclear chief testing engineer at the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard, he worked long hours and in his 30s, he began to notice that he wasn’t feeling very well.

“I just knew I wasn’t feeling as good as I could,” he said. “So I decided to get fit.”

He’d pack his gym bag in the morning and put it in the car as he headed off to work. Then, when it was quitting time, he’d head to the gym.

“I knew if I went home to change clothes, I wouldn’t leave again,” he said. “So I tricked myself into going straight from work to the gym.”

And his co-workers knew it too.

“I was on call a lot,” he said. “So my co-workers knew that if I didn’t answer a call, I’d get with them when I was done with my workout.”

His workout routine included cardio, weights and an abs class. Soon the instructor saw how hard he was working and asked him to substitute teach the class.

Exercise is an important part of overall health and wellness.

Contributed photo Once Canfield retired in 2011, he decided to get certified as a fitness instructor and personal trainer.

“The certification process meant a lot of studying and testing,” he said.

“But as an engineer, I had to re-certify every two years, so I was use to studying.”

Today, he trains clients through the YMCA which contracts with Sound Fitness for personal trainers. Each of them are their own independent businesses with their own licenses and fees, but they have access to all the equipment at the YMCA. When working with a client, Canfield does a complete assessment of the client’s personal goals, needs and desires, and identifies any health issues or physical limitations. He then uses that information to develop a training plan specify to that client. If needed, a physician’s clearance is sought.

Each program will include upper body work, lower body work and an all-body workout with no weight equipment, but using resistance. The workouts also include warm ups, and stretching.

“If someone has been inactive for a long time, there are very simple exercises that can get them on to a path to better health and fitness,” he said.

“Walking is a great start.”

Other options for beginners, he said, include chair jogging, marching in

place, followed by wall push-ups, and then chair squats.

At the next level, the exercises can include jumping jacks, jogging in place, regular pushups, bicep curls using armbands or dumbbells, and then squats and walking lunges.

For those who want to try exercising on their own, Canfield suggests the 10-Minute Total Body Breakthrough, by author Sean Foy. “This is a great book that gives options from beginners to advanced, utilizing a 10-minute principle, progressing over time,” he said.

It includes four minutes of simple cardio, three minutes of resistance exercise, two minutes of core exercise and one minute of stretching.

Working with a personal trainer can be about $60 per session, but as Canfield said, the more sessions you buy upfront, the more the cost goes down.

He also offers a partner program where two clients work with him at the same time and share the hourly cost.

“The buddy system is great because

the participants keep each other enthused,” he said. “Sometimes if they see their partner doing something, it can motivate them to work toward that goal, too.”

And, if clients don’t have a spouse or friend who wants to work out, Canfield can pair clients up.

He’s seen clients in their 60s lose up to 40 pounds in six to nine months.

“Once they begin to get active, they also begin to look at what they’re eating,” he said. “They want to get healthy. They begin to eat better and move more. And most of them stay active and maintain that weight loss.”

Whether working out at the Y, another fitness club, or at home, Canfield encourages seniors to find a form of exercise that they like and that includes cardio and weight-resistance exercises.

“It’s all about getting the blood pumping,” he said. “It’s all about feeling better and enjoying life.”

To contact him, email rcanfield@ ymcakc.org. The YMCA offers discounted memberships to seniors.

Stay up to date on what is happening in your neighborhood! www.northkitsapherald.com www.bainbridgereview.com www.bremertonpatriot.com www.centralkitsapreporter.com www.portorchardindependent.com

18 | Spring Time of Your Life 2015

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Spring Time of Your Life 2015 | 19

Center offers non-invasive skin cancer treatment A diagnosis of skin cancer no longer means having to have surgery; new radiation techniques are being used locally

By PENINSULA CANCER CENTER STAFF

A

s Pacific Northwesterners, we all anticipate the arrival of warmer weather. But with our beloved sunshine comes the damaging effects of UV rays.

One in six people will develop skin cancer in their lifetime, with over one million cases annually in the U.S., and the most common cases are non-melanoma skin cancers, basal and squamous cell cancers.

With extensive exposure to the sun’s harmful UV rays, skin cancer may just be a matter of time for many people.

Surgery is the most common treatment for most skin cancers but it often has cosmetic and recovery issues for patients.

Recent technological breakthroughs have made low-intensity radiation a compelling alternative to surgery for certain types of skin cancer. In those cases, radiation treatment offers a cure rate of 90-97 percent, which is comparable to surgery, with excellent cosmetic results and without any recovery time.

As you might already know, Peninsula Cancer Center in Poulsbo has been providing first-class radiation treatment to our community since 2009. Peninsula Cancer Center is now offering an innovative, noninvasive form of radiation treatment for the most common kinds of skin cancers.

This technology uses a miniature x-ray tube that emits very low intensity radiation, penetrating only just below the skin.

This treatment is particularly effective for skin cancers that occur on the nose, on the ears, around the eyes, or other areas where surgery often generates cosmetic problems.

It is also ideal for people who are not candidates for surgery (e.g., those with diabetes or on blood thinners).

The technology used for this treatment is called Xoft and comprehensive information is available at xoftinc.com.

During treatment, a small applicator that looks like a wand is placed directly against the skin. Treatment is painless and lasts about three to four minutes. Just eight

The staff at Peninsula Cancer Center in Poulsbo applies a non-invasive technique for treating skin cancer to a patient in the clinic. It includes a low-intensity radiation which is an alternative to surgery.

Contributed photo treatments over four weeks are usually adequate for most non-melanoma skin cancers. At the completion of treatment, the treated area of skin is slightly reddened like sunburn and may peel. Other than temporary irritation limited to the area treated, there are no other side effects. Xoft technology is particularly effective for: • Cancers in areas that raise cosmetic concerns, (i.e., face, nose, ears, or eyes).

• Patients with recurrent skin cancers that were already treated with surgery.

• Those for whom surgery could be risky (e.g., diabetics or on blood-thinners).

• People who prefer non-invasive treatments to invasive options like surgery.

• Cases where radiation treatment after surgery helps improve the outcomes.

The doctors at Peninsula Cancer Center have already treated nearly a hundred patients using the Xoft technology with excellent outcomes.

Patients prefer this treatment over surgery for their skin cancer for both the cosmetic result and the fact that it’s painless with minimal recovery.

Dr. Berit Madsen, co-founder of Peninsula Cancer Center, has been

very pleased with the feedback she has received from patients. “They often tell me that they wish they had this treatment rather than surgery for their previous skin cancers and will not do surgery again for any future skin cancers,” she said.

“The dermatologists in the area who have referred patients to PCC for this treatment are also impressed with the excellent outcomes and the patient satisfaction.”

This type of radiation treatment for

non-melanoma skin cancers has been approved by the FDA and is covered by Medicare. Private insurers would require pre-authorization.

To learn more about this breakthrough, non-invasive treatment for most common skin cancers, go to www.peninsulacancercenter.com, or make an appointment with Dr. Madsen, Dr. Foxlee or Dr. Hsi at 360697-8000.

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20 | Spring Time of Your Life 2015

He’s able to help you plan for the costs of future care It’s important to talk about the options and the ‘what ifs’ when thinking about your future health care needs

By LESLIE KELLY

lkelly@soundpublishing.com

R

ichard Tizzano would be the first person to tell you that he stumbled into his work as a life care and estate attorney.

In fact, it was when he was trying to negotiate his father’s journey to old age that he became very aware of what all was involved.

“When it came time for my father to go to a nursing home in 1998, I realized there was a whole jungle out there that I knew nothing about,” Tizzano said. “And I found it hard to get good information.”

Tizzano is an attorney at Sherrard McGonagle Tizzano with offices in Poulsbo and on Bainbridge Island. He is a 1992 graduate of the University of Puget Sound School of Law and practiced law in California before moving to Poulsbo.

At that time, his father was in an independent living facility in Tacoma. But when the time came that he couldn’t be on his own, Tizzano began researching places for his father in Poulsbo, and decided on Martha & Mary.

“It was great,” he said. “I could walk over on my lunch hour and visit with him.”

His father died in 2000. But Tizzano’s dedication to helping others who need to plan for their futures has lived on. He gives two seminars monthly throughout Kitsap County that highlight the need for seniors to plan ahead of time how they will physically and financially care for themselves as they age.

“There’s a hurdle people have to get over,” he said. “And that’s coming in the door, whether it’s here for a private conversation or just attending a seminar. It’s natural. Nobody wants to think about getting older. But they need to.”

He tells a story about a man who came into his office a few years ago and asked what he should do about long-term care

Contributed photo

Richard Tizzano will speak at the aging conference. for his wife.

“He told me his wife had been in nursing care for four years and he was out of money,” Tizzano said. “I was overcome with a mixture of sadness and anger.”

What he wanted to tell the man was, “Why didn’t you come to me before?

I could have saved you all the money you’ve spent.”

The reality is, he said, in situations like that, the law allows a transfer of assets to a spouse which, in turn, allows the spouse that needs nursing care to have it covered by Medicare or Medicaid, depending on their age.

“The rules are set up so that the well spouse doesn’t become destitute,” he said.

The most common concern he sees from elder clients is how can they get long term nursing care if needed and still preserve their assets.

“Usually there is a way,” he said.

“You have to sit down and make plans

ahead of time to avoid making costly “We talk about the options and ‘what mistakes.” ifs,’” he said. “And we look at what benefits they have that they may have overThat means looking at your long-term looked like VA benefits or Medicaid.” care plans and what it will cost, your After a plan is made, he then invites assets and how they can be protected, the clients’ children or family in to hear and what your final directives will be about the plan. including the cost of burial or cremation.

“In some cases, the plans give the authority to children or Tizzano knows that family members to enact many people put off that the things that may be discussion.

“Most people spend needed,” he said. “So “Most people spend more time and money everyone needs to know more time and money planning a vacation upfront what’s wanted so planning a vacation than that the kids or caretakthey ever do making a than they ever do ers will follow that.” detailed estate plan that making a detailed His office also offers a can potentially save them estate plan.” publication titled Aging thousands of dollars — or — Richard Tizzano, Options, which is speeven tens of thousands of cific to the local area and dollars if there’s nursing attorney spells out all of the things care involved.” to be considered when A starting place is making a life plan. to attend one of his seminars. He’s As a former minister, Tizzano has also speaking at the Older Americans always cared for people and had a desire Conference this spring. to help them.

Next, he said, invest in an hour or “My mother suffered a stroke when I two of time with someone like himself, was 12,” he said. “I learned compassion a lawyer who can help a senior through from that. She was in a wheelchair and the legal work. paralyzed on the right side. I remember “For a single person, it might cost she’d be in the kitchen telling me how about $500,” he said. “For a couple, to cook things. That’s where I learned maybe $1,200. And to create a trust to cook.” to shelter assets, it would run about Helping others and being kind is his $2,500.” way of living. He and his wife, Gloria, Generally, he asks his senior clients have six children, five of them still at what their wishes are and helps them home. establish a sustainable plan. But, he “When it comes to estate and life care said, the problem is that no one knows planning, most people are just looking just how long they’ll live or if they will have health problems. So there has to be for an on-ramp,” he said. “They’re desperate for information.” a Plan B.

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Spring Time of Your Life 2015 | 21

She’s definitely a numbers gal ... and wants to help From bank statements to tax forms, Marilee Hageman knows it all — and she can help you get organized

By LESLIE KELLY

lkelly@soundpublishing.com

T

o Marilee Hageman, there’s nothing like a stack of messy papers, bank statements and receipts.

“I’m kind of like a forensic bookkeeper, or a numbers detective,” Hageman said. “I love to reconcile accounts to the penny.”

Hageman, who lives in Kingston, recently retired from the world of professional accounting, but has a consulting business of her own where she’ll take on projects for individuals and small businesses.

Among her talents are processing cash receipts and accounts payable, preparing monthly financial reports, reconciling bank accounts, preparing payroll, preparing quarterly sales tax returns and B&O taxes, implementing computer accounting programs and updating employee handbooks. She charges a base rate of $40 an hour and is just beginning to build her client list.

A Seattle native, she began working as a bookkeeper in San Francisco in the mid-1960s. She didn’t have a college degree, but she’d been a bookkeeper for her father’s company in Seattle.

“I was making $290 a month and my good friend, who had moved to San Francisco, told me jobs there were paying $400 a month. So I went.”

One of her first jobs was for Walter

After a career in accounting, Marilee Hageman of Kingston has put her knowledge to work and offers her services to seniors who need help with all that paperwork.

Leslie Kelly photo Landor, a well-known packing company executive.

“He had an old ferry boat he moved from Seattle to Pier 5 in San Francisco,” she said. “That’s where his office was.

We just got use to the rocking back and forth with the waves. Sometimes stuff would just slide off our desks. The chairs would float across the room and the file cabinet drawers would swing open.”

As she out grew a job, she’d move on to another one that was more challenging. She stayed working in California until 2000 when she moved to New York where she worked for an architectural firm in Manhattan as its bookkeeper.

She moved up to a position as a controller, and then went to work for an accounting company where she added human resource skills to her repertoire.

She eventually moved back to

California to care for her aging mother and. in 2007, moved back to the Seattle area.

“I didn’t want to live in Seattle,” she said. “I thought Port Orchard sounded like a great place. But I’d never been there.”

She began looking for house and ended up falling in love with a condo in Kingston. Soon she went back to work as an accountant for William Boeing Jr., who just died in January. She oversaw his personal accounts and his business interests until last October, a job that included a two- to three- hour commute each way.

“I’d get on the bus in Kingston at 6 in the morning and go to Bainbridge Island and take the ferry to downtown Seattle to the office,” she said. “And every night I’d do that in reverse.”

After four years of that commute, she

decided to stay home and find clients on her own.

One of the most challenging jobs she’s had as an independent consultant was helping a friend with years and boxes of business papers.

“Her husband was a general contractor,” Hageman said. “He died very suddenly and she was left with 10 years of paperwork and and 10 years of tax returns that hadn’t been filed.”

It took Hageman about four months to reconstruct everything.

“Bank statements are like the skeleton,” she said. “They’ll tell you what you don’t know. It’s all about tearing it all apart and then putting it back together so it makes sense.”

Today, she has just a handful of clients and is building her business slowly.

She’s experienced in QuickBooks Pro, Excel and Word. She’ll work on location or out of her home.

She hopes to be able to offer services to seniors — volunteering if needed — just to help them out.

Many times, seniors aren’t able, due to health or other reasons, to keep up with their mail, their bills and their bank statements, she said.

“I want to help them out when I can,” she said. “I love numbers that much.”

But she’s not all business. Hageman has many talents. She’s a member of the women’s singing group Lyrica in Port Orchard and also travels with that group.

She knits and sews and just recently made smocks for the students at her grandson’s day care. She has a daughter who lives in Massachusetts and a new granddaughter as well.

“I’m not all left-brained,” she said. “I have a creative side, too.”

To reach Hageman, call 360-509-2306, or email her at gotnumberz@gmail.com.

Have some time? Try volunteering with Foster Grandparents Are you on a limited budget? Are you over 55 years of age? Are you willing to spend 20 hours a week helping children in a classroom?

Then you might want to consider joining the Foster Grandparent Program.

A Foster Grandparent is someone who serves in a classroom, under the teachers’ guidance, helping needy kids. You

might read, sing, tell stories, do crafts, help socialize or have fun in many other ways. You receive a meal each day, are reimbursed for your transportation, and receive a small stipend for serving.

The benefits are threefold: you get to contribute to your community in a meaningful way, the teacher gets some additional help in the classroom and, most

importantly, children get some much needed guidance and positive attention.

“Grandma Sue B.” expressed the feelings of many of the Foster Grandparents when she said, “I’d go insane if I had to sit at home all day long. I couldn’t bear to be away from my kids.”

Her “kids” are the ones she helps and watches as they grow into young adults.

“Grandma Sandy” helps newborn babies and their parents.

Although the monthly stipend does help with expenses, she said she loves what she does so much that she would pay the school for the privilege of coming to work.

For more information, contact Bill Tracey at 360-405-0072, ext. 4, or by email at billt@ccsww.org.

22 | Spring Time of Your Life 2015

He’s putting on the miles, literally, as he keeps fit For Robert Jones, there’s no sitting still when there’s always another bicycle race to ride in or outdoor trail to explore

By LESLIE KELLY

lkelly@soundpublishing.com

N

o one can accuse Robert Jones of standing still. In fact, he hardly ever does.

The 65-year-old Indianola resident is up most weekdays by 4:30 a.m. and at his spin class at 5:30 a.m. If he feels like it, he sticks around for another cycling class at 6:15 a.m. Then he lifts weights at the gym.

On Saturdays and Sundays he often takes a nice outdoor bike ride of some 25 to 50 miles.

“I like to say that you shouldn’t stop moving, or else someone will think you’re dead,” Jones quipped. “For me, being fit and being active is a way to not

Robert Jones, center, and his biking buddies pose for a photo following the Chilly Hilly bike ride on Bainbridge Island.

Contributed photo invoke the health care system.”

But it wasn’t always that way for him.

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“I stayed pretty fit until I was about 50,” he said. “It was when my friends gave me a surprise birthday party when I turned 50 that I looked at myself and thought I was really looking old.”

For the previous six years he’d had more of an office job, as director of operations at Heronswood, the nursery that his husband, Dan Hinkley, owned.

“I’d been sitting a lot and it showed,” he said. “I’d gained about 10 or 15 pounds and I didn’t like that.”

At that time, in 2006, the nursery was sold and Jones found himself without a job. He saw Dan going off to a spin class every morning, but just didn’t think that was for him.

“When he said spin, I thought it was something like weaving,” he said.

“When he told me what it was, I just thought it was something trendy.”

But toward the end of that year, he decided to take better control of his life and tried spinning.

“It just stuck,” Jones said. “I found out I loved it.”

In the first month, with also watching what he ate, be lost 15 pounds. He began to feel better and fitness has been a part of his day ever since.

After about a year of doing the indoor spin classes, he decided to branch out.

He bought a bike and began biking with Dan. “I wondered if I could do that,” he

said. “I hadn’t been on a real bike in a long while.”

Soon he was riding 20 to 30 miles every weekend. He found his husband’s speed to be too leisurely, so he began riding with other friends. And within several months, he rode the STP — Seattle to Portland race, 200 miles in two days.

Two years later, he rode that same race in one day.

Because biking requires core body strength, Jones works all muscle groups, especially the upper body, with weights in the gym.

He thinks biking and staying fit is what’s kept him from being sick and having to go see the doctor.

“Health care costs are so high,” he said. “I like to try to not invoke the health care system at all. When you’re fit you can actually reduce your dependence on health care.”

And, for the most part, he’s done that. In all the years he’s been riding, he’s only taken one major spill last December.

“I crashed into a biker in front of me,” he said. “ I had sore joints, but nothing broken.”

Then, a few weeks ago, he had another minor crash.

“Neither of those were a reason not to go out,” he said. “Safety is important.

But by being in reasonable shape and by being careful, I’m not concerned about falls.”

Falling at an older age means more chance of injury and a longer recovery time, he added, and that’s another reason to build your strength up in the first place.

While he likes speed, he doesn’t consider himself anything of a dare devil.

And he says others should pick a fitness routine that they like.

“If you do something you really like, you’ll keep at it,” he said. “Back between 2006 and 2010, I was running a lot. But I have decided that’s not ideal for me as I grow older.”

So, he said, he sticks to cycling.

He’s still working part time as an architect and takes on a couple of projects at a time. He and Dan have also opened another nursery named Windcliff.

“When I’m not working or riding, I’m taking care of my portion of the nursery and garden,” he said. “I don’t think retirement is a concept I understand.”

Spring Time of Your Life 2015 | 23

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24 | Spring Time of Your Life 2015

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