Healthy Living - Kitsap Living - Fall 2016

H O ME , HE A LT H A ND WE L L NE S S IN KIT SA P - FA L L 2016

KITSAP

IT’S THE WORLD’S FIRST 100% INVISIBLE HEARING AID, YET PEOPLE STILL WANT TO SHOW IT OFF. “People can walk right up to my ears and can’t see them.”

– Cookie

• World’s first hearing device to be invisible from any angle, a full 360°.

INVISIBLE “The natural sound, I hear sounds I haven’t heard in years.”

• Sits close to the eardrum so it uses your outer ear to give you incredibly clear, beautiful sound.

– Stu

• Soft and comfortable, Lyric is not an implant, it’s the world’s first extendedwear hearing device and it lasts for months without replacement.**

INCREDIBLE “You don’t even have to take it out.

You can wear it 24/7,* no one can see it, and I can’t even feel it.”

– Grace

HASSLE-FREE HEARING

Join us for a Lunch and Learn: February 11th, 2015 12:00pm - 1:30pm / Lunch will be served

Sponsored by:

When: Where:

February 11th, 2015 Kitsap Regional Library SPONSORED BY Community Room Serving our community 1700 NE Lincoln Road with exceptional Poulsbo, WA 98370 not-for-profit care.

From: 12:00pm - 1:30pm With special guest speaker www.peninsulahearing.com A SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT TO THE BAINBRIDGE ISLAND REVIEW, NORTH KITSAP HERALD, CENTRAL KITSAP REPORTER, BREMERTON PATRIOT AND PORT ORCHARD INDEPENDENT Kevin Haslam, a Lyric specialist

Call to RSVP today, Seating is Limited!

360-930-3241

As featured on:

2

KITSAP LIVING FALL EDITION

OCTOBER 14, 2016

OTICON OPN - Hearing Breakthrough in Difficult Situations Traveling with a large group of teenagers can put quite a strain on us, especially those of us with a hearing issue, which I do. I am Dr. Megan Nightingale of Peninsula Hearing, Inc. with offices in Poulsbo and Port Townsend. Allow me to tell you a story about a trip I took with my husband, our son and 29 other teenagers this past summer.

Being a chaperone meant that we were responsible for many students. Being as short as I am, I could not see the teens we were responsible for; I had to rely on hearing their voices in a crowd and I could easlily do that with the OPN’s on. Without them (I forgot to put them in one day), voices were just a blur in a crowd and I felt ashamed when I could not answer questions from the other people on tour with us. f

We found ourselves in large groups listening to tour guides and riding on busses with our tour guide speaking through the onboard sound system, and as we all know, young people tend to talk fast and are not particularly patient. So, I needed to know I could keep up with the conversations. The hearing devices I had were very good in most situations, but I still had a hard time hearing in background noise, like most people with hearing difficulties.

One situation put us in a restaurant with 400 students from around the U.S. We were in a large room with long tables around a stage. It was very loud, most especially when the entertainers were on stage! You can see the video on our Facebook page or on our website to hear what it was like. www.facebook.com/Peninsulahearinginc http://www.peninsulahearing.com/opn

Just before we left, my professional team and I had the opportunity to learn about a new hearing device that was just coming out and had been years in the making.

To say that this device, the “Oticon Opn” is “technogically beyond any other device available today is an be understatement”, they told us; but those are just words.

How they perform out in the real world is what matters.

So, I set myself up with a pair of OPN’s and put them to the test. There were two major differences I noticed about these new OPN devices I want to share with you; I could keep up with the teens on our tour and I could have easy conversations with relative strangers in background noise!*

What I remember is how easily I heard the other parents and teachers around me, even in the worst of the noise. Could I hear the people at the end of the long table? No, but I suspect that no one would.

Most importantly, the Oticon OPN’s performed incredibly well where I needed them most, to hear fast talkers and to hear those around me in A LOT of background noise. a Give us a call at 360-697-3061 in Poulsbo or 360-379-5458 in Port Townsend to try them yourself and nd out what I experienced. You will be glad you did!

19319 7th Ave NE - Suite 102 Poulsbo - 360-697-3061 1308 W. Sims Way Port Townsend - 360-379-5458 *individual results may vary

Dr. Megan Nightingale

KITSAP LIVING FALL EDITION

OCTOBER 14, 2016

3

The dark days of November How to deal with the onset of winter

By LESLIE KELLY

them until they go away in the spring.”

When clinical psychologist Dr. John Rarick practiced in Southern California, he never saw anyone with Seasonal Affective Disorder.

The really good news is that with seasonal depression, people can find ways to manage their symptoms by taking actions that will decrease the impact of this disorder upon their lives, and they can look forward to the symptoms going away in the spring,” he added.

lkelly@soundpublishing.com

But when he moved to the Pacific Northwest to work, he sure did.

There is help. Getting outside when you can, exercise, and adding full-spectrum light therapy for at least 30 to 40 minutes a day.

“Twenty-five years ago when I came here, that’s when I knew it really did exist,” Rarick said.

Seasonal Affective Disorder, commonly called SAD, is a recognized disorder, according to mental health counselors. It is related to changes in a person’s circadian rhythm, a 24-hour biological process, that can be affected by a reduction in light.

“In some cases, a physician will prescribe an anti-depressant to help with the serotonin levels,” Rarick said.

And cognitive behavioral therapy can be prescribed.

“Part of it is the dark thoughts,” he said.

“Therapy can help with that. Getting the ability to challenge and defeat those negative thoughts can be very beneficial.”

Seasonal depression really is a repetitive pattern of onset of symptoms in the fall or winter and remission of symptoms of depression in the spring, over the course of at least two years.

“This pattern of onset and remission of episodes must have occurred during at least a two year period, without any nonseasonal episodes occurring during this period,” according to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders– Fifth Edition. And it specifies that the seasonal depressive episodes “must substantially outnumber any nonseasonal episodes over the individual’s lifetime.”

Simply having the onset and remission of depressive symptoms two years in a row doesn’t mean a person “has it” (SAD), but it is good data, good supporting evidence of possible SAD that should motivate a full evaluation of an individual who suspects that he or she may have this disorder, Rarick said. It includes the sharing of past history of symptoms, medical history, current and past stressors, etc., a diagnosis of seasonal depression may be made.

Symptoms of an already existing depressive disorder or mood disorder may intensify with the presence of seasonal depression.

“What I have observed in the past is that people with seasonal depression may experience feelings of sadness, fatigue, lack of energy, depressed mood, and/or irritability that is difficult for them to explain, given the absence of events, (psychosocial stressors) that would account for the subjective changes that they have been experiencing,” Rarick said.

For some who suffer with SAD, just having a diagnosis can help.

In the Pacific Northwest, the onset of SAD is usually in November and can last into early spring, March or April, Rarick said.

“Some people are very aware of it,” he said. “Others just wonder what is happening to me?”

The key, Rarick said, is to get a diagnosis.

“See your primary care physician,” he said. “People should not ignore this especially if they have major depression because (SAD) will compound that.”

For those who are aware that they have SAD, when the days begin to get shorter, it’s time to take action. Suggestions include exercising, and getting outside during the daylight hours.

“Those who have had symptoms at this time of year every year, they know what’s going on,” he said. “They’re ready for it.

But for those who haven’t had symptoms before, they’re finding themselves irritable, and not feeling good.”

“It’s not the kind of depression where you can’t get out of bed in the morning, or where you are suicidal.”

“The reason for obtaining a diagnosis is to better understand what might be the cause of the person’s symptoms,” he said.

“This will lead to a plan of treatment to With the daylight hours becoming shorter, everyone can be affected in some way. Here are some things you can do to keep from feeling the darkness as much: • Exercise. Get out during daylight hours, even if it’s only a walk around the block on your lunch hour.

• Keep the blinds and curtains open during daylight hours. If need be add more light to your work space using a desk lamp.

“Knowing what’s wrong and knowing how to manage it is what helps them get through it,” he said. “They know they will get through it. They know they’ll get to the other side.”

If all else fails, move to a place where there’s more sun.

“Although a small number of people have found that they cannot tolerate the long winter nights and choose to move away to locations with more sunshine, the vast majority find that they are able to manage through what I call the ‘Dark days of November,’” he said.

Rarick wants people to know SAD is not a “trendy diagnosis.”

“It’s real,” he said. “But it can be managed.”

And he warns that SAD is more common in women.

• Remember, after Dec. 20, the daylight begins to get longer.

Although Rarick doesn’t know of a support group in Kitsap County for those with SAD, there are mental health services available, including Kitsap Mental Health and Eagle’s Wing Counseling Center in Bremerton for those who are low income.

work on eliminating the symptoms, or in the case of seasonal depression, managing

Rarick is clinical director at Peninsula Psychological Center, with offices in Poulsbo, Silverdale and Bremerton. Contact the center at 360-779-1006.

• Talk about how you are feeling. Just knowing that others are feeling it too can help.

4

KITSAP LIVING FALL EDITION

OCTOBER 14, 2016

Getting your home ready for winter

By LESLIE KELLY

WINTER CHECKLIST

lkelly@soundpublishing.com

• Insulate walls and attic

Nancy and Harvey Bateman know that fall’s right around the corner when their office phone begins to ring off the hook.

• Caulk and weather-strip doors and windows • Install storm windows or cover windows with plastic from the inside

The Bainbridge Island couple owns Kitsap Moss Removal, and they say their work is currently scheduling “about six weeks out.”

• Insulate any water lines that run along outer walls. This will make water less likely to freeze

Clearing your gutters and cleaning your roof, deck, sidewalks and driveway, are among the things that homeowners need to do before winter sets in.

• Service snow-removal equipment • Have chimney and flue inspected • Install easy-to-read outdoor thermometer

Kitsap Moss Removal does all these things.

• Repair roof leaks and cut away tree branches that could fall on your home or other structure during a storm

“Most people take their roof for granted, unless it’s leaking,” said Harvey. “It’s so much better to have it cleaned and prevent problems.”

• Clean your gutters so winter rain and melted snow can flow easily

The company suggests inspecting and cleaning the roof twice a year. They offer a full cleaning with a preventive maintenance plan.

.chimney or flue inspected each year. Ask your local fire department to recommend an inspector or find one online or in your telephone directory under “chimney cleaning.”

“That includes an annual application of our eco-friendly moss inhibitor,” Nancy said. “This maintenance schedule provides your roof with optimal longevity and aesthetics.”

Composite and title roofs are cleaned by hand, she said using a gentle brushing and blowing. Then the moss inhibitor is applied. Metal roofs are pressure washed.

They also can clean the interior and exterior gutters.

For the typical 2,000 square-foot roof, the annual maintenance cost runs about $800. If the homeowner only needs gutters cleaned, that runs about $125 to $150.

The Batemans said removing moss is important for the life of your roof. Moss grows and attaches to roofs by roots called rhizoids. Rhizoids feed on granules in asphalt, composite and title roofing. A moisture-filled environment invites this to happen, Nancy said.

“As soon as you see green or black shading and growth, that’s when you need to have your roof cleaned,” she said.

The company employs 11 people who work year-round on roofs. They also pressure wash and clean surfaces, including parking lots and store fronts.

“Fall is the time to think about cleaning

your sidewalks, driveway and deck surface,” Nancy said. “Moss and algae on ground surfaces create an unsafe environment.

“Think about doing it before those little goblins walk up your walkway on Halloween. You don’t want them to slip and fall.”

Harvey said having trees near to the house can also contribute to moss on roofs.

“Now is a good time to assess the trees in your yard,” he said. “Trim the trees back away from the roof. That will mean less moss on the roof and fewer needles and leaves in your gutters.”

The Pacific Northwest mild winters enhances the growth of moss.

“That’s when it grows,” he said. “When everything is wet. Whatever you can do to prevent rainwater on the roof, it will help.”

Other winterizing chores to perform include checking windows for air leaks, and weather stripping the doors, he said.

“People out here don’t use storm windows,” he said. “But it’s good to make sure

you don’t have places where cold air or water can get in.”

Harvey, himself, used to clean the roof of his own house. That was back when he was a financial advisor. It was after he retired from that career that he and his wife purchased Kitsap Moss Removal.

“It’s not a lot of fun to clean a roof,” he said. “It’s a stinking hard job. Most homeowners try to avoid thinking about it because they don’t want to get up on a ladder and do it.”

Also, if you’ll be using a fireplace, wood stove, or kerosene heater, install a smoke detector and a battery-operated carbon monoxide detector near the area to be heated. Test them monthly and replace batteries twice a year. All fuel-burning equipment should be vented to the outside.

Your ability to feel a change in temperature decreases with age. Older people are more susceptible to health problems caused by cold. If you are over 65 years old, place an easy-to-read thermometer in an indoor location where you will see it frequently.

Check the temperature of your home often during the winter months.

Hence, he said, call the professionals.

Kitsap Moss Removal will send someone out to do a no-cost personalized estimate and see just what needs doing to your roof and gutters.

Insulate any water lines that run along exterior walls so your water supply will be less likely to freeze. To the extent possible, weatherproof your home by adding weather-stripping, insulation, insulated doors, and storm windows or thermal-pane windows.

Call 206-855-5608, or 360-633-3789, or go to www.kitsapmoss.com for more information. The company works throughout Kitsap County.

If you have pets, bring them indoors. If you cannot bring them inside, provide adequate shelter to keep them warm and make sure they have access to unfrozen water.

Helpful things to know: If you plan to use a fireplace or wood stove for emergency heating, have your

KITSAP LIVING FALL EDITION

OCTOBER 14, 2016

Knowing your colors Adding light to create space

By LESLIE KELLY

5

YOUR PROJECT, OUR EXPERT ADVICE.

lkelly@soundpublishing.com

Everybody needs more light in their lives.

That’s the motto designer Connie LaMont lives by. LaMont is an interior designer and a colorist — someone who knows how to use color to create light in a room. It’s that combination of light and shadows that she teaches to those who want to remodel and change colors.

“I’m famous for doing color, forcing shadows to create space,” LaMont said. “The key is when you put a deep color next to a lighter color it will create space using shadows.”

LaMont came to Kitsap County more than 20 years ago, without a job. She and her husband, C. Wayne LaMont, an architect, moved from Southern California, where sunlight was plentiful.

“Neither one of us had jobs,” she said “We had two little children and two big dogs. Our friends thought we were crazy.”

But LaMont’s sister lived in the Pacific Northwest and she’d been here to visit. She and her husband decided they wanted to live somewhere in “nature.”

“I love the greens and the colors of nature,” she said. “Where we were in California, you only found the colors you would see at the beach.”

Within 10 days of moving here, her husband found a job, and soon, so did Connie.

“My sister had a friend who wanted help redesigning in her home,” she said. “That’s when I started doing color work and it just took off like wildfire.”

When working with a client, she goes to their home to see what it currently looks like. She charges $75 an hour and within a couple of hours, depending on the size of the home, she comes up with a plan.

She starts with the client’s skin tone.

“People have a natural pallet,” she said. “It’s the colors that blend with their skin tones.”

An example is the color white, which, LaMont said, is really hundreds of different whites.

“You have to find the neutral that fits,” she said. “White plays off any tone and creates a brilliance. White next to itself — one will turn gray. I like working with Benjamin Moore paints, White Dove, Seattle Mist and Beach Glass are a few favorites.”

When adding color, think about what you want the room “to do.”

“If you want a calming affect, use the cool spectrum — think seaside nature. But bring in neutrals, something that looks like a wet oyster sheen.”

Leslie Kelly/Staff photo

Connie LaMont Using blues and greens and something like the color of dry sand is good for a bedroom.

And she said, there’s a reason why television shows have a “green room.”

“Green is a color that makes you feel like you can accomplish things,” she said. “It makes you feel pretty confident.”

When working with yellow, you have to separate the red yellows from the green yellows.

“Red based yellows are calming,” she said. “Like butter. Whereas green-based yellows vibrate. That’s why highway warning signs are that color of yellow.”

Color is important for the feel of a room, but also for the mental health of the room’s occupants.

LaMont tells about going to help a woman with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, who found she couldn’t get out of bed in the mornings. When LaMont saw the bedroom, she immediately knew why.

“There were these dark red heavy drapes on the windows,” she said. “I helped the woman to another room where the colors were lighter - greens. In about 20 minutes she told me she was breathing better and felt more energy.”

For more information, go to www.lamont designinc.com.

POULSBO GIG HARBOR 20530 Viking Way NW 6820 Kimball Drive 360.779.6995 253.858.6362 BAINBRIDGE ISLAND 937 Hildebrand Lane 206.842.2227 BREMERTON PORT TOWNSEND 5373 Auto Center Way 315 Decatur Street 360.373.5999 360.379.8025

Paint like no other™

Visit benjaminmoore.com ©2016 Benjamin Moore & Co., Benjamin Moore, Paint like no other and the triangle “M” symbol are registered trademarks licensed to Benjamin Moore & Co.

6

KITSAP LIVING FALL EDITION

Exercising at home Building your home gym

By LESLIE KELLY

lkelly@soundpublishing.com

brand. Fitness mats range from $20 to $60 depending on size and thickness.

Personal trainer Rebecca Diehl likes to tell people that when they create an in-home gym, “keep it simple.�

In her house, her exercise room is shared as a computer room so that she can call up exercise videos on You Tube on her computer screen.

“It should be a space that you can leave set up,� Diehl said. “And somewhere that’s comfortable.�

Diehl has been a personal trainer for years, working at West Coast Fitness in Port Orchard. She also travels to client’s homes to coach them. Here’s what she suggests be in your home gym. “I like stability balls, bands and a mat,� she said. “These are simple in expensive things that you can get at Big 5, Walmart or Fred Meyer.�

First thing is to find a quiet place in your home that is free of any distractions.

“Exercise DVDs are really a thing of the past because you can get anything you want on Youtube,� she said. “Just type in ‘stretching,’ or ‘high intensity’ — what ever you like to do. And you can even suggest how long you want to exercise, like from five to 35 minutes.�

She also uses her computer in her gym to Skype training sessions from New York.

Diehl also tells clients to think about the lighting and the temperature in the spot where they will be exercising.

“Everyone now has a cell phone, but keep you cell and you home phone away from your workout area,� she said.

“It has to be cool because as you workout you’ll heat up,� she said. “And make sure that it’s a place where if you stumble or fall, you won’t hit anything, or get injured.�

A set of five resistance bands will run about $25. A stability ball will run from $20 to $40 depending on the

Ideal fitness areas should have natural light from windows. Add lamps with soft white light bulbs.

OCTOBER 14, 2016

Another trick, she said, is to put up mirrors. That will make the exercise area appear larger. “And a mirror is so important so that you can watch your form as you work out,� Diehl added. “Even a $15 wall mirror from Walmart that’s propped up against the wall will do it.�

Bringing in plants can also help boost oxygen levels in the room. Ferns, bamboo palms, and spider plants top the list for their indoor air purification powers.

Other equipped to consider: Foam rollers are versatile – use them for ‘kneading’ out muscles, core strengthening, or as a prop for yoga poses.

gradually build up from there. Save even more money by putting some items on your wish list for upcoming holidays or your birthday, shop at used sports stores or garage sales, or swap out with friends to rotate your equipment for free.

Check out Craigslist, too, and consider buying used equipment.

Once you’ve got all your equipment, you’ll need to store it in between workouts, especially if you’re using a shared space (such as the living room). If possible, dedicate a few shelves or bins to organizing everything you need for your workouts. Get creative with ways you can store your fitness equipment to keep it neat, dust free, and out of sight when not in use. A corner shelf unit is perfect for an iPod dock, speakers, and a plant or two.

Or try a storage ottoman for storing resistance bands, dumbbells, and other fitness gear.

Skip buying a bulky treadmill for cardio. Easily stored jump ropes are perfect for quick cardio.

And no need for a bunch of weights or cable machines for strength training. Invest instead in one set of dumbbells that you can adjust in weight.

Now that you’re set up, be sure to put your home gym to good use. Invite a workout buddy over, or ask your partner to sweat it out by your side. Just like a real gym, it won’t do you any good if you don’t regularly visit it.

(Some information for this article came from Shape Magazine.)

Remember, you don’t have to buy everything all at once. Start with a few key pieces and then

KITSAP

W ’ Y Next Big Purchase?

Let us help with our different lending choices!

Home Equity Line of Credit & Home Equity Fixed

New/Used Auto, RV & Boat

Stop in and learn more.

Silverdale Branch 3035 Bucklin Hill Road

To advertise in our winter issue, please call 360-779-4464

Interactive Teller Machine M-F 7:00am - 7:00pm (at select locations) Learn More > Apply Online > ourfirstfed.com > 800.800.1577 Member FDIC

19351 8th Ave. NE, Ste 106, Poulsbo, WA 98370 | 360-779-4464 | www.soundpublishing.com

OCTOBER 14, 2016

KITSAP LIVING FALL EDITION

CARING FOR GENERATIONS We have been caring for Greater Kitsap children, seniors and families for 125 years, offering a continuum of services that meet the care needs of our community.

Exceptional care that feels like family, we are your trusted care partner.

Rehab • Senior Housing • Home Care Care Management • Long Term Care • Children

7

8

KITSAP LIVING FALL EDITION

OCTOBER 14, 2016

Gardening in the fall Time to think about container gardens

By DEBBIE TEASHON Contributing writer

Now’s the time to refresh those container gardens, refurbish or tear them completely apart and start over for the autumn and winter seasons.

The most interesting containers are not static, plant once and leave until spring. Planning ahead, and planting for quick changes, we can keep our pots looking as wonderful as they do during the summer season.

plants need to have interesting or bright foliage, or flowers. Coral bells (Heucheras), rainbow drooping fetterbush (Leucothoe “Rainbow”), or glossy abelias (Abelia cultivars such as “Kaleidoscope”) brighten containers with their fanciful foliage.

Hellebores add winter flowers – some of them also have interesting foliage. When the season nudges up close to the first frost date, you want plants that are able to stand up to winter weather and have interesting elements that look fantastic until early spring.

Select budded flowers and plant them into the large container while still in their nursery pots.

After their flowers fade, the spent plants are easily removed leaving a planting hole behind. After their brilliant performance, plant them out in the garden and tuck its replacement into the container.

Consider planting late-winter to early-spring bulbs into the pot too. Flowering bulbs help renew the container with flowers in February to early March. Early narcissus, crocus, and Iris reticulatas add some welcome color to the planted pot.

If you don’t get your bulbs in time for your fall container plantings, try this next tip. Plant your container, but keep a few of the late summer to early fall-blooming plants in their quart or onegallon pots and plant them, pot and all, into the larger container. Plop in another interesting plant as a temporary placeholder as necessary.

Going into the colder months, the replacement

Take another matching size nursery pot and

Plan for your containers to host early fall blooming plants with asters, tall sedums, tender rudbeckias and chrysanthemums that will add a distinct presence to the display. The flowers won’t last through the season, so consider them temporary.

pour in a few inches of soil into the bottom.

Plant 4 or 5 early blooming daffodil bulbs, such as Narcissus “February Gold,” or more if there is room. Keep the bulbs just far enough apart, that they don’t touch. Fill the gallon pot up with soil and place it in a protected area outdoors.

When bulbs start to grow, put them in a place where they can get full light, so they won’t lean.

When the flowering stalks start to show their buds, take the reserve plant out of the large container and replace with the pot of bulbs. The beauty of this method is when the bulb flowers fade you can either replace it with another pot of later blooming bulbs, or put in an early spring blooming plant — instantly renewing the container. It takes some planning to pull this off, but worth the extra effort to keep containers looking fresh.

Fall season is the time to plant paper whites (Narcissus “Ziva” and other cultivars) that dress up the front porch in flowers for December and beyond. Growing out in the cool, moist air, the flowers will last an exceptionally long time.

Online: www.rainyside.com/debbie.html

Oh, that car...

Don’t put off getting your car ready for winter

By LESLIE KELLY

lkelly@soundpublishing.com

Bob Ling knows that being prepared is something his customers should do. And he knows if they don’t, he’ll surely be hearing from them.

Ling is owner of Silverdale Autoworks. His goal is to get drivers to think about getting their cars ready for winter, before winter hits.

“Not too many people call and say ‘I need to get my car winterized,’” Ling said. “It’s a low percentage that really think about it and follow through. That’s why I do a lot of advertising this time of year — to remind them.”

Ling, who has been in the car repair business for 22 years, has a “checklist” that vehicle owners should consider. First on that list is tires and brakes.

“Fall is the best time to check on your tires and brakes,” he said. “With tires, make sure they have enough tread on them to get you safely through the winter.”

For most drivers in this area, snow tires or studded tires are not needed, he said.

“A good all-weather tire will get you through the season,” he said. “That is unless you go over the mountains and a regular basis. Then you should invest in snow tires and carry chains.”

Also on the checklist is inspecting the belts in the car’s engine; checking all fluids; checking the wiper blades, and making sure the heater and defrosters are working.

Next on the list is checking the strength of you car’s battery.

“And another good thing to do is to read your owner’s manual,” he said. “Know what routine maintenance you should be doing and know how everything on your car works. Most people take a look at it when they buy the car and then never open it again.”

“It’s no fun to get pushed off the ferry,” he said.

“Make sure your battery has the power you’ll need.”

The new equipment that he has in his garage checks batteries much more precisely than the older equipment and therefore can keep drivers from having the trauma of a dead battery.

“Batteries don’t like it too hot or too cold,” he said. “They like to be at 70 degree. Here, we check the battery on every car every time the car comes in for any service.”

Ling said it’s those really cold mornings, the first ones of the season, when he gets calls from people needing a jump or a new battery.

“It just seems to happen more in the winter,” he said. “That why some of the newer cars have two batteries.”

If you drive a four-wheel drive or all-wheel drive vehicle, check the operating systems on those, Ling added.

Another thing to think about is having an emergency kit in your trunk.

“You never really know when and where you might get stuck, or how long you could be there,” he said. “For that reason, have an emergency kit. Have extra clothing, blankets, bottled water and energy bars. And don’t forget to always have a flashlight, jumper cables and an ice scrapper.”

KITSAP LIVING FALL EDITION

OCTOBER 14, 2016

9

Anderson Denture & Dental Center: How To Choose A Denturist A denturist is the only professional legislated “exclusively” to serve individuals with removable dental prosthetics. A denturist’s entire required curriculum of study focuses on the oral health of those individuals needing a dental prosthetic and the actual fabrication of that appliance. The denturist actually makes your dentures.

Your denturist is an expert in the design, construction, insertion and adjustment of removable dental appliances. Your licensed denturist has graduated from an accredited or approved college denturist program and passed the state’s board of health two-day examination. This board examination not only includes the sciences involving oral health issues, but also the technical skills necessary to actually fabricate your denture. This expertise makes choosing a denturist the best possible choice to help you derive the maximum benefit from up-to-date dental prosthetic technology.

When you choose a denturist for your denture needs, you can be assured of expert personalized care.

Knowing you are being seen by the individual who will actually make your dental appliance offers confidence that your unique need will be met.

Your denturist is devoted to creating full or partial dentures that fit well, look natural and attractive and allow you to maintain a healthy smile.

The advantages of our Dental Center is that we offer both services of a denturist and dentist. We provide personalized professional services at affordable prices without compromising quality. Our attention to detail and warm personal service will make your visit to our dentist office enjoyable.

We sincerely consider our patients part of our extended family and enjoy the times when they just drop in to say hello. Sometimes the pleasant chatter in our reception room is like a family reunion and every member of our staff enjoys helping each patient feel at home.

We provide our patients the services of both a dentist for general dental needs and a denturist for denture services. Our in-house laboratory where our denturist actually fabricates the dental appliances offers our patients the most personal, affordable and expedient care available.

Please call our office in Poulsbo at (360) 779-1566 to set up an appointment with on of our dentists or denturists.

You'll love what we can do for your smile!

• Denturist & Dentist on Staff • Crowns & Bridges • Cosmetic & General Dentistry • Denture Repair • Crown & Denture Implants

• Relines (while you wait) • Extractions • Emergency Care • Dentures / Partials

“Quality denture & dental care for your entire family!”

FREE*

800-990-9116

Most Insurances Accepted

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

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

Must present this ad to receive.

10

KITSAP LIVING FALL EDITION

OCTOBER 14, 2016

Staying in your forever home Home modifications for people with changing abilities

By AARON MURPHY

Better lighting can significantly help with this, as can color contrasts between materials. Just like we use yellow “turtle bumps” on an ADA ramp in the public realm, we can (still in good taste) help show depth and transitions with color changes and tonal differentiation. For example, going from dark floors, to light cabinetry faces, to dark counter tops, to light walls. It can really show “spatial edges” as our eyes start to do a less stellar job of that for us. Good design matters, and it can even keep you safer, for longer, at home. Good design disappears.

We aren’t making homes into hospitals, we are making things work better in ways you won’t even notice, because it “just works”.

Contributing writer

With 10,000 people turning 70 years old every day, there is much more attention being paid to what housing is (or most of the time isn’t) doing to keep up with our changing needs at a personal level and in our daily lives. There are studies and laboratories all over the world who are working on these types of subjects.

What the spec builders are not willing to hear, and the remodelers and general contractors are unaware of, are things I’ve been learning about and studying for years, so we can create better design with the future in mind. Forever homes, with “universal design” which just works better for anyone and everyone, regardless of age or ability.

There are labs in St. Louis that have learned things such as glare is 200 times more debilitating to a 90 year old verses a 20 year old.

And white vertical surfaces can cause vertigo in Alzheimer’s patients.

The list goes on, and the studies are extensive, but the point is that “Universal Design” or “Aging in Place” is more than just putting a grab bar in the shower. Contractors don’t know about all the different products and solutions for empowering your house to meet your needs in the next 20-30 years.

Aging in place is what we all want as our first choice, for as long as possible. Your home is where your memories, your friends, your pets, your community, and your routine are based. It’s the home base we love, and we don’t want to leave. I was the only U.S. architect invited to the 2014 International Home in Tokyo, Japan to film a TV show about “Aging in Place Housing Solutions”.

At that expo we were able to learn a lot about what’s coming in the decades ahead for products and technology solutions, because Japan is the oldest country in the nation. They aren’t getting everything right, but they are leading the way, and guinea-pigging for the rest of us all around the world.

There are some great ways, even on a budget, to start thinking about making your house your “forever home”, or at least making it work for you correctly, so you can stay there. When I speak locally as well as regionally and nationally, I reference the “sock and ball test” as a good starting point. Put your hand around a tennis ball, and put your fist into a sock, It’s a simply way to mimic

rheumatoid arthritis symptoms. I tell people to go home and try to use your house with that “altered hand ability”. You’ll find that you probably can’t open the doorknob from the garage to the house, you can’t open your cabinet doors, you can’t control the dimmer switch on your light fixture, and things like that… things you take for granted every day… for now, until you can’t — and it’s too late to plan ahead.

As a designer, I’ve had the opportunity to put on an “Age Suit” twice, once in Seattle at the Abodian cabinet company, and once at the Tokyo Toto bath products Research and Development study showroom. They add weight to your body, restrict your mobility at the joints (knees, shoulders, back), yellow your eyes, muffle your hearing, take the tactile sensation away from your fingers with gloves, just to give you a few examples of “future you” changes in ability which the suit was created to mimic.

Trust me when I tell you, after doing that experiment (and being laughed at for trying to function normally, on camera), I am a better designer for having gone through it… and you do want to plan ahead at home. Falling and breaking a hip, going to the hospital and rehab, and then coming home with new needs… is not the time to decide to remodel your home.

The top areas to consider which can help you prepare for your future at home are:

STAIRS & THRESHOLDS: Steps, treads and risers, tub transitions, shower curbs, high pile carpeting or door thresholds like sliders onto a deck… these are all places where stepping up or down, or getting over, can cause accidents. One third of people over 65 have fallen, over half of those falls are recurrent, and hospital and health costs resulting from those falls is a major issue in the U.S. and abroad with a financial result from your health change after a fall causing major issues and changes in lifestyle.

Sometimes that includes not even being able to make your own health and housing decisions after-the fact. That’s not empowering.

It compromises your independence, your autonomy, and your freedom. We can do better than that. We can plan ahead.

LIGHTING & COLORS: Your eyes change a lot in the second half of life. The amount of light they let in, the color they show you, it’s all degrading and changing.

OPERABILITY: This is a big area where products are well ahead of “overall design”.

Individual solutions to specific problems usually come out first. How it all “goes together” and how we put the parts into an overall design solution is where a designer can come in and play “quarterback”, per se.

Leading a team of professionals to put all the pieces together. There is a spoon that “shakes” to offset MS symptoms so you can eat a bowl of cereal, as an example. In a home, you can get interiors of upper cabinets that “come down” to meet you for ease of use, on the counter top! There are now two drawer dishwashers that save energy for lesser use, and also allow wheelchair access to load the top drawer. The same is true with many other home products, from light sensors to elevators. But to start looking at it all, do that “sock and ball test” and get in touch with me, I’d love to hear how it goes!

Aaron D. Murphy is a licensed architect in Poulsbo, and an NAHB “Certified Aging-inPlace” specialist. ADM Architecture does both commercial and residential design and permitting. Learn more at www.ADM-architecture. com or call 360-881-0282..

Regional publisher: Terry R. Ward General manager/advertising: Donna Etchey Display Advertising: Marleen Martinez, Bill McDonald, Sharon Allen, Jessica Martindale, Ariel Naumann, Caleb Ward Managing editor : Richard Walker P.O. Box 278, Poulsbo, WA 98370 Special publications editor /writer: Leslie Kelly 19351 8th Avenue NE, Ste 106, Poulsbo, WA 98370 Contributing Writers : Debbie Teashon, Aaron Murphy, Melinda Office (360) 779-4464 Meyers www.soundpublishing.com Creative services manager: Bryon Kempf Copyright 2016 Sound Publishing Artists: Mark Gillespie, Kelsey Thomas, John Rodriguez, Vanessa Calverley, Johanna Buxton

OCTOBER 14, 2016

KITSAP LIVING FALL EDITION

11

The science of lawn care made simple America has home renovation fever. At one time, a handful of home improvement shows were on late at night or during the day, but now entire networks are dedicated to showcasing remodels, flips, additions and new constructions.

The result is that more homeowners are ready to tear out the old and install maple cabinets, granite counters or marble bathtubs.

Many undertake these renovations with the belief that it will increase their home’s value. But the simple fact is that large-scale projects often cost more than the value they add, and rarely do homeowners recoup their expenses.

A far easier, less expensive and effective strategy is to focus on your lawn. As every good real estate agent will tell you, curb appeal and making a good first impression are fundamental in selling your house at the price you want.

Therefore, having a well-kept lawn is key to your home’s value.

Even if you’re not selling right now, a healthy lawn is a long-term investment that contributes to the overall value of your neighborhood and location.

Digging dirt

Those immaculate greens you see on golf courses or large estates are so pristine partially due to engineering and a scientific understanding of the soil and how grass grows. People go to college to specifically study the science of lawn care.

The good news is, to get similar results, you don’t need men in lab coats to study your lawn. The basis of the best kept lawns in the world is the same as in your neighborhood: a lawnmower.

The biggest challenge many homeowners face is how to adequately mow a yard that has a variety of terrain. Hills, dips and bumps can stop many lawnmowers and result in uneven cutting. Many push mowers now come with a propulsion system that takes a lot of the work out of mowing the lawn. The big advantage here is that a self-propelled mower is able to navigate a variety of terrain, and in wet conditions, provide an even cut.

Source: Brandpoint Content

Fall is the time to amend your soil

By MELINDA MYERS

soil and store in a cool dark location. Replant, cut back and water the plants in March. Then wait to see if you have been successful.

Fall is a great time for soil care. Adding organic matter like compost, aged manure, peat moss or other organic material will improve drainage in heavy soils and increase the water holding capacity of sandy and rocky soils. Dig two to four inches of organic matter into the top eight to 12 inches of soil. Then mulch the soil surface with shredded leaves, evergreen needles or other organic material. These mulches conserve moisture (less watering for you), suppress weeds and as they break down add nutrients and organic matter to the soil. Sweep fertilizer and grass clippings off walks, drives and patios when you finish fertilizing and mowing the gardens and lawns. This prevents them from washing into the sewers and polluting our waterways.

Callas, caladiums and tuberous begonias can be moved indoors for the winter. Grow them as houseplants in a sunny window or under artificial lights. Don’t forget about the perennials. Many garden centers are running specials and many fellow gardeners are sharing surplus plants they have divided from their own gardens.

Make sure to properly prepare the soil before planting. Work several inches of organic matter into the top 8 to 12 inches of soil for best results. Set the plant in the soil at the same level it was growing in the container.

Contributing writer

GARDENING TIPS FOR FLOWERS Many gardeners like to save geraniums and other annuals overwinter. Take four to six inch cuttings from healthy plants.

Remove any flowers and root the cuttings in moist vermiculite, perlite, or a well-drained planting mix. Once roots develop, plant the cutting in a small pot and grow in a sunny window and care for like your other houseplants. Or bring potted geraniums indoors and grow like a houseplant. Isolate the plants for several weeks, watch for insects and control pests before mixing them with your houseplants. The most difficult method is to store them in a somewhat dormant state. Most of our basements are too warm for success. Dig geraniums in fall before frost. Remove loose

Water thoroughly and often enough to keep the top few inches of soil slightly moist. Mulch the soil to conserve moisture, reduce weeds and insulate the roots from temperature extremes. Fall leaves work great for this. Shred the leaves and spread them on the soil around the plants. As they break down they add nutrients and organic matter to the soil.

Gardening expert, TV/radio host, author & columnist Melinda Myers has more than 30 years of horticulture experience and has written over 20 gardening books, including Can’t Miss Small Space Gardening and the Midwest Gardener’s Handbook. She hosts The Great Courses “How to Grow Anything: Food Gardening For Everyone” DVD series and the nationally syndicated Melinda’s Garden Moment segments. Myers is also a columnist and contributing editor for Birds & Blooms magazine. Myers’ web site, www. melindamyers.com, offers gardening videos and tips.

12

KITSAP LIVING FALL EDITION

OCTOBER 14, 2016

Stuck on what candy to buy for Halloween?

It’s that time of year again. Soon the little Trick or Treaters will be at the door and you better be ready.

On average, Americans spend $2.5 billion on candy annually. At Halloween, 72 percent of the candy purchased has chocolate in it. From that statistic, it appears the adults may be buying a bag of their own favorites and munching down chocolate as they hand out other kid candy to the ghosts and goblins.

Here’s the top 10 candy preferences for Halloween, according to The Daily Meal.com.

10. 3 Musketeers 9. Skittles 8. Twix 7. Starbursts

Creating thanks Some ideas to make your home festive for Thanksgiving If you’re expecting friends and family for dinner on Thanksgiving, and want to make your home fit the occasion, here’s a list of creative home projects you can do on a budget. Most all of these supplies are readily available at your local craft store.

MESSAGE BOARD: As family or guests arrive for Thanksgiving, have them write what they are thankful for on a paper leaf and pin it up. This frame was constructed using a linencovered foam core and an old frame. Cut paper leaves from old books or scrapbook paper in different fall shades.

CREATIVE CANDLEHOLDERS: Use repurposed candleholders for easy fall displays of small pumpkins and gourds. Look for inexpensive candleholders in varying heights at a garage sale or antiques store, then spray-paint black for a unified look.

COZY GLOW: Wrap glass votive holders in textural flair.

Tie raffia around three or four overlapping moistened corn husks trimmed to fit. A spotted guinea fowl feather (available at crafts stores) adds a flourish.

sages of thanks on paper ornaments. Tie ornaments to tree branches anchored in sand in a pitcher. They make a memorable keepsake if guests sign and date their ornament.

ACORN TREE: A coat of paint transforms acorns into tiny ornaments. Hang them from a branch with twine loops glued to the caps. The long serving tray, filled with more acorns and a bowl, visually balances the display. Adjust the colors of the paint to coordinate with your table linens.

FLOWER RING: Fashion flowers from corn husks for seasonal napkin rings. To create the flower, cut a freehand spiral from a soaked corn husk so it has at least four rings. Starting from the outside, roll up the spiral. This will form a rose shape. Let dry; the rose should hold its shape loosely. Secure with gel glue. Glue a circle to the base. For the ring, cut out a rectangle and fold to form a loop.

Hot-glue ends. Glue flower to the top, and you’re ready!

BOTTLE DISPLAY: Show off bittersweet berries in gold, green and clear bottles on a windowsill or shelf. Tiny gourds between the bottles add another shape to the seasonal mix.

NATURAL DISPLAY: A pumpkin “basket” makes an imaginative centerpiece for a fall table. Hollow out the pumpkin, then place a block of wet floral foam inside. Position a pillar candle in the foam and surround with fall blooms and berries to complete this DIY fall decoration.

FEATHERED THANKS: This thankful turkey can be a decoration all month long or constructed just before your Thanksgiving dinner. To create this project, begin with a large pinecone. Cut feather shapes from scrapbook paper, crease them in half lengthwise and fringe the edges with scissors. Construct the turkey’s head by cutting out an oval and a circle and adding googly eyes, a beak and a wattle. Have family or guests write what they’re thankful for on the feathers and tuck feathers into pinecone.

GIVE THANKS: For quick and easy homemade place settings, start with brown craft paper and create space for each guest to write a list of things they’re thankful for. The lists will make great dinner conversation, too!

THANKFUL TREE: Invite family or guests to write mes-

APPRECIATE ANCESTRY: Holidays are the perfect time to teach youngsters about their heritage. Make it an activity by cutting out copies of vintage baby photos and arranging them on the wall in a “family tree.” Family members can guess who’s who.

Source: Midwest Living magazine

6. Twizzler’s 5. Kit Kat Bar 4. Hershey’s Milk Chocolate Bar 3. Snickers 2. M&Ms 1. Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups Source: Kidzworld.com

KITSAP LIVING FALL EDITION

OCTOBER 14, 2016

Think energy

Save energy and money as cooler weather settles in From PUGET SOUND ENERGY

There are some simple, money-saving steps you can take to conserve and be more energy efficient: TO SAVE ON HEATING BILLS: Set the thermostat to 68°F degrees or lower when you’re at home and awake, and lower it another seven to 10 degrees when you’re asleep or away. It might be on the cool side, but the savings add up. For most homes, the heating bill drops by about 2 percent for every one degree the thermostat is lowered. Install and properly set a programmable thermostat to make this happen automatically.

Seal up leaky drafts around doors and windows with weatherstripping, caulking, and door sweeps. Also seal up any leaks or gaps in furnace ducts that extend through unheated basements or crawl spaces.

Reduce air leaks by repairing broken windows and using inexpensive weather-stripping around entry doors. Insulate attics, outside walls and floors over crawl spaces.

PREPARATION CAN HELP EFFICIENCY: LED light bulbs pay for themselves in the first year or less when replacing old, inefficient incandescent bulbs. LEDs last 25

times longer than incandescent bulbs. PSE provides huge instant discounts on LED lighting; many are available for less than $6 a bulb at local retailers.

Old refrigerators and freezers can be huge energy hogs. They use up to four times the electricity of new energy efficient models.

Recycling your old fridge or freezer could save you as much as $200 each year on your power bill. PSE electric customers who sign up to recycle their old fridge or freezer get free pickup and recycling, plus a $25 Visa prepaid gift card as a thank you from PSE. PREPARING FOR POSSIBLE OUTAGES IN COLD CONDITIONS: Assemble an emergency kit, including a battery-powered radio, a flashlight, extra batteries, a first-aid kit, a fire extinguisher, bottled water and non-perishable food. Make sure your blanket supply is adequate for extended outages. In an emergency, blankets and cardboard can be hung over windows and doorways to minimize heat loss. Keep portable heaters away from furniture, draperies and other flammable materials. Never use a natural gas range for heating or charcoal as an indoor heating or cooking source. Download the PSE mobile outage app to track and report outages in your area.

KITSAP

H O M E, H EA LT H A N D W EL LN ES S IN K IT S A P - W IN TE R 20 17

KITSAP

OUR NEW QUARTERLY PUBLICATION! NEXT ISSUE: COMING JANUARY 2017 • Learn about new forms of exercise that can help take off those holiday pounds

• Suggestions on where in Kitsap County to take your sweetheart for a romantic Valentine’s Day

• What’s on your 2017 Bucket List? Great places to go and things to do in Kitsap County

• Feeling buried under? Get organized. Tips on how to clean up your desk confusion, in stacks in your bedroom closet and the “junk” inyour garage

SPONSORED BY

13

14

KITSAP LIVING FALL EDITION

OCTOBER 14, 2016

Be ready now for any emergency live in a cold-weather climate.

• Household chlorine bleach and medicine dropper – When diluted, nine parts water to one part bleach, it can be used as a disinfectant. Or in an emergency, you can use it to treat water by using 16 drops of regular household liquid bleach per gallon of water.

Do not use scented, color safe or bleaches with added cleaners.

• Fire extinguisher • Matches in a waterproof container • Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items • Mess kits, paper cups, plates, paper towels and plastic utensils • Paper and pencil • Books, games, puzzles or other activities for children Many local groups, such as the Kitsap County Department of Emergency Management, offer classes in emergency preparedness. The department has training videos online at www.kitsapdem.org. They also have neighborhood program that teaches such things as turning off gas meters in an emergency.

By LESLIE KELLY

lkelly@soundpublishing.com

Whether it’s a situation where the power goes off for a time, or “The Big One,” hits, officials from the American Red Cross and the Federal Emergency Management Agency say every home should have a ready-andwaiting disaster kit.

According to both agencies, a disaster supplies kit is simply a collection of basic items your household may need in the event of an emergency.

“You may have to evacuate at a moment’s notice and take essentials with you. You will probably not have time to search for the supplies you need or shop for them,” a FEMA official said.

Prepare to survive on your own after an emergency. This means having your own food, water and other supplies in sufficient quantity to last for at least 72 hours. Local officials and relief workers will be on the scene after a disaster but they cannot reach everyone immediately. You could get help in hours or it might take days.

Additionally, basic services such as elec-

tricity, gas, water, sewage treatment and telephones may be cut off for days or even a week, or longer. Your supplies kit should contain items to help you manage during these outages.

A basic emergency supply kit could include the following recommended items: • Water, one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation • Food, at least a three-day supply of nonperishable food • Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert and extra batteries for both • Flashlight and extra batteries • First aid kit • Whistle to signal for help • Dust mask to help filter contaminated air and plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelterin-place • Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation • Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities

• Manual can opener for food • Local maps • Cell phone with chargers, inverter or solar charger Additional emergency supplies include a First Aid Kit. You may want to consider adding the following items: • Prescription medications and glasses and infant formula and diapers • Pet food and extra water for your pet, or prescriptions for your pets • Cash or traveler’s checks and change • Important family documents such as copies of insurance policies, identification and bank account records in a waterproof, portable container.

• Emergency reference material such as a first aid book.

• Sleeping bag or warm blanket for each person. Consider additional bedding if you live in a cold-weather climate.

• Complete change of clothing including a long sleeved shirt, long pants and sturdy shoes. Consider additional clothing if you

And, when the power goes out, don’t forget about your refrigerator.

A common solution is to have a gasoline generator that can keep the appliances working. Home generators range in price, based on their size and ability to produce power.

Some start as low at $749, with 6,200 watts of power, and range up to $1,889 for those that produces 10,000 watts of power or higher.

These type are powered by gasoline or propane and are portable.

There also are permanent standby generators that attach to a concrete pad on the exterior of the home. These generators will provide uninterrupted backup for days because they’re connected directly to your home’s electrical panel and powered by an external fuel supply, such as natural gas, liquid propane, or diesel.

Smaller, air-cooled essential-circuit units are slightly larger than portable generators and can energize just a few circuits at a time.

Larger, liquid-cooled whole-house systems will do just as their name suggests — they’ll comfortably power an entire home and they can cost upward of $20,000.

KITSAP LIVING FALL EDITION

OCTOBER 14, 2016

Fall Brings A New Community of Friends My mother came from a very large close-knit family.

Every fall 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.

Mom no longer hosts the reunions since Dad had passed away. At the last gathering she looked extremely tired.

The family 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.

Liberty Shores & Harbor House is a trusted and deficiency free senior care provider specializing in assisted living and memory care. They offer the finest care, given by the most committed staff.

Call and schedule a free tour and lunch and you will experience our community filled with warmth and new friends.

Liberty Shores

SENIOR LIVING

Harbor House MEMORY CAR E

LIKE US ON

360-779-5533

19360 Viking Avenue N.W., Poulsbo

www.libertyshores.com

15

16

KITSAP LIVING FALL EDITION

OCTOBER 14, 2016

PAID ADVERTISEMENT

How to choose an Acupuncturist More than 3 million Americans each year turn to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). As acupuncture and herbs are fast becoming popular modes of treatment you may be among those seeking out a TCM practitioner. It’s important to be well informed when choosing your acupuncturist, so here’s some helpful tips: Get recommendations / If possible seek a referral from a friend or family member. People you know can provide relevant insight to your situation, when compared to a stranger online.

Ask about treatment protocol / Seek a consultation before your first treatment. This is to ensure Chinese Medicine is the right solution for your problem and to discuss all procedures and fees upfront.

Depending on your circumstances, you may require an extended plan that involves multiple visits per week, or a short-term plan with only one a week.

Can they help you? / Chinese Medicine offers many modalities including, but not limited to, acupuncture, Chinese herbs, tui-na or Chinese massage, dietary therapy, and meditation. Find out which mo-

dalities are recommended for you and look for a practitioner proficient in these areas.

that you do this during your first consultation. Payments can vary depending on the practitioner.

Research credentials / You may also want to consider your acupuncturist’s experience and education. In the state of Washington the licensing falls under EAMP, East Asian Medical Practitioner. This license is dependent on the NCCAOM licensure. NCCAOM has 4 board exams and one who passes all 4 is considered a Diplomat of Chinese Medicine.

The EAMP licensure is dependent on only 3 of these boards, excluding the Chinese herbal board. If the use of Chinese herbs is a possibility, be sure to check the full credentials of the practitioner.

Convenience and facilities / Discover more about their services online. This enables you to explore their facilities to see if they offer the type of environment you prefer. You might want a clinic similar to a doctor’s office, or something more homely. It also allows you to find where they are located so you can plan your visit in advance.

Inquire about payment options / Before you begin treatment ask if they accept your insurance. It’s vital

HEALTHCARE SPOTLIGHT

Robert Doane EAMP Robert holds a Masters of Oriental Medicine degree in Chinese Medicine and is licensed to practice Acupuncture in the State of Washington. Mr. Doane started the Acupuncture and Wellness Center in Poulsbo in 1998 and in six short years the clinic became one of the largest Chinese Medical clinics in the United States, treating thousands of patients each month.

Robert is a member of the prestigious American Academy of Pain Management where he has been a guest speaker.

Call (360) 394.4357 to meet Robert and take the first step to a pain free life.

(360) 394.4357 acupuncturewellness.net

Evaluate your personal connection / Establish during your first meeting whether or not you feel comfortable with your practitioner. This is someone who, like your regular GP, you need to be able to speak freely with about all of your medical issues.