Summer 2014
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Tableof Contents
Publisher Senior Moments Media, LLC
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Importance of a Valid Will
8
Book Review: Carol Dabney’s Dance Me Home
VetAssist® Program Not Just for Veterans
10
Paragould Bees: Get Up & Get Busy
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20
Home Health vs Personal Care
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Travel Tips
Restoring Independence
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24 Directory
Editor-in-Chief Dustin Hood editor@seniormomentsmag.com Copy Editor David White Staff Writers Lisa Tedder www.cardiologistswife.com Emily Alexander emily.alexander@smail.astate.edu Photographer Staci Vandagriff staci.vandagriff@gmail.com Graphic Designer David Barrentine david.barrentine@smail.astate.edu Contributors Jobi Teague, Sarah Akin, Jana Wright, Dr. Emelda Williams, & Angelia Thompson Subscriptions Senior Moments Magazine is published quarterly- Spring, Summer, Fall and Winterand distributed free in Jonesboro, Brookland, Paragould, Newport, Monette, Manila, Trumann, and Marked Tree. Annual subcriptions are direct mailed to the subscriber for $18. Subscribe online at www.seniormomentsmag.com or by calling 870.227.2499. @ @
Connect With Us Senior Moments Magazine PO Box 19163, Jonesboro AR 72403 870.227.2499 editor@seniormomentsmag.com www.seniormomentsmag.com facebook.com/SeniorMomentsMag No part of this publication may be used without written permission of the publisher. ©2014, Senior Moments Media, LLC. Printed in PRC.
On the Cover: “Red Jacket” by Dustin Hood
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FROM THE DESK OF T
hank you for welcoming Senior Moments Magazine to the area. Our mission is to bring senior citizens tailored articles that take out the confusing lingo of need-toknow information. All too often I hear of people in need of something, but don’t know where to go or even where to begin to find out information. Fortunately, here in North East Arkansas there is always someone willing and waiting to help. In our debut edition we’ve talked to several experts in the field to gather details on topics that are often plagued with misconceptions or most people simply don’t know about. We discuss what exactly is required when creating a Will and Testament, a document that each and every one of us needs to prepare ahead of time. Next, we bring you the tale of a beautiful love story from local-author Carol Dabney’s Dance Me Home. (We will be hosting a Meet the Author at Barnes & Noble in Jonesboro on August 9th. We will also have an panel of experts to answer any of your questions about caregiving and Alzheimer’s.) One of the amazing programs that we’ve showcased in this issue is the VetAssist® Program offered by Veterans Home Care which offers great care for our veterans and their families. Summer is here, that means it’s time to get up and get busy! We visited with the Paragould Bees who spend their free time “dancing the night away.” They’ve provided you with a few ways to stay active during the summer. We also have information about the difference between In-Home Care and Personal Care. While most people mistake these as being the same thing, knowing the differences could help provided you with better care that fit your needs. I’ve always loved writing and enjoyed the art of storytelling. We will bring you articles that take us on a leisurely stroll down Memory Lane. If you have a story you’ve written that you would like to submit, or know of a story you think we should cover, please send us a letter telling us about it. Also if you have any questions that you would like more information on write to us and we will have an expert in the field answer your question for you. Please send all letters to PO Box 19163, Jonesboro, AR 72403. I would also like to thank each and every one of our advertisers. They have been a huge help in providing information on services they offer. It is because of their support that we are able to supply Senior Moments Magazine absolutely free. Some have even provided coupons that can be found on page 29. Please go by and support these businesses or give them a call to thank them for advertising with us.
Dustin Hood Editor-in-Chief
Importance of a Valid Will A
Written By: Jobi Teague, Attorney at Law
person’s Living Will and Testament is one of the single most important pieces of documentation they will develop in their lifetime. This document will determine to whom the deceased’s belongings will go to. Without it, a person is considered to have died as “intestate,” and state laws will then take over in the distribution of the assets left behind. In Arkansas, there are a set of requirements that must be met for the will to be considered valid including the following: the document must be written (typed or printed), it must be signed by the testator or testatrix (the person creating the Will), and it must be signed by two witnesses who were present to see the execution of the will by the maker as well as the signing of the other witness. In Arkansas, anyone who is over the age of 18 and considered to have “sound mind,” meaning he or she hasn’t been deemed incompetent in a prior legal proceeding, can create a Will, and it is never too early to start. In fact, a Living Will can become crucial during times of medical emergencies. A Living Will is a written statement giving the specifics of how a person would like his or her medical treatments to be handled when he or she is no longer able to express informed consent. It is necessary for the family members who are asked to make the medical decisions in these situations. Typically, decisions involved in a living will revolve around whether or not the family member should remain on life support for a certain length of time, or it may specify the family member’s wishes in the event that he or she becomes brain dead. A Living Will gives someone the authority to make these tough decisions when the time to do so arrives. Waiting until it’s too late could result in family disputes and the possibility of a court making this decision for you, which can be very time consuming and expensive. Once a person has been diagnosed with dementia or determined not to be able to give legal consent, he or she can no longer give this type of authorization. It is important to take charge of your right to make this tough decision. Don’t wait until it’s too late. For more information on Living Wills and their implications, feel free to call Teague Law Firm at (870) 358-2304.
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DANCE Me Home by Carol Dabney A Love Story of ‘True Grit’ Reviewed by Lisa Tedder, Staff Writer
I
immediately felt a strong connection to Carol Dabney’s book, Dance Me Home, a memoir based on her mother and father’s life; so much of it was similar to my father’s experiences as it will be to anyone who came of age in the thirties and forties. The book takes the reader traveling through time and place as she truthfully, yet lovingly, weaves their story of romance, tragedy, sacrifice and hard work. Robert Jones, Jr., was born in Houston, Texas in 1924 in a log cabin to parents who instilled in him a strong sense of hard work, patriotism, and family responsibility. Robert, Sr., taught his boys many skills such as hunting and farming and how to be resourceful with what they had. Remembering his father’s words about his own service in WWI, “Boys, there is a pride you feel as a man when you serve your country.”, Robert rushed to join the Navy after Pearl Harbor though he was only 18. He soon found himself on an aircraft carrier helping pilots land. Later, he and some of his crew
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mates were inexplicably left on an island in the Philippines to become foot soldiers. The realities of war began to take a toll on the young man and he consoled himself with thoughts of a girl he’d spied at a USO dance shortly before shipping out. Though they had never met, he dreamed of someday dancing with the beautiful young lady, thus the title of the book. Robert eventually made his way home safely and met the love of his life, Wanda, whose story is also detailed in the book and is just as interesting as his own. After a brief courtship, they married and three girls soon followed. The rest of the book follows the family as they move about the United States looking for work and a place to settle peacefully. Things get rough when Robert increasingly turns to drink to hide from his problems. In an effort to get his life together again, Robert moves the family to a small farm in the backwoods of Arkansas where he finds peace and hope in the Pentecostal church. Even as they struggle with Alzheimer’s and the infirmities of old age, Wanda and Robert’s love endures and
their sense of humor gets them through the days. Carol Dabney’s family has certainly led an interesting life, living in many places, meeting celebrities and trying their hand at different jobs, making this book an engaging page turner. Though they had their share of troubles, they always put family, love and honest, hard work first in their lives. They are the kind of people you hope to have as friends and neighbors as they can be counted on to help in times of trouble or laugh with you in good times. In spite of their many hardships, Robert and Wanda maintained a positive, can do attitude which they have passed on to their daughters. Carol resides in Little Rock where she frequently reads her collection of children’s books at the Clinton Library. Dance Me Home is available in paperback on Amazon or at Barnes and Noble Booksellers. Please join us for our Meet the Author and expert panel discussion on Alzheimer’s and caregiving at Barnes & Noble August 9th.
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33904 Highway 63 East Marked Tree, AR 72365 (870) 358-2432 Summer 2014
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Not Just for Veterans Written By: Emily Alexander, Staff Writer
T
he VetAssist® Program of Veterans Home Care was established with a mission to assist veterans who protected our freedom by enabling them to live independently in their homes. It’s the services they offer to fulfill this mission that many people know little about. The program provides assistance to wartime veterans or their surviving spouses in accurately submitting applications to the VA including obtaining military and other needed records (marriage licenses, death certificates, for example). An interest-free loan allows the client to pay for home care immediately; the VetAssist® Program also provides access to quality home care from a contracted licensed provider, continuing case management (both before and after VA entitlement), and due diligence in monitoring home care expenses. “We become a liaison between the veteran perspective client and the VA office,” Sarah Akin, the Arkansas Veterans Home Care field representative, said. “When I send a packet in to our headquarters to begin processing, it has to meet lots and lots of conditions. Even with the 40+ people on staff, only a select group of qualified applicants go through each month. "It's a process," Akin states, "but one you have Veterans Home Care to guide you through with ease." Veterans Home Care was founded in 2003. The founder, Bonnie Laiderman, lost her mother
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to cancer. Toward the latter part of the illness, Laiderman learned a lot about a Department of Veterans Affairs benefit for veterans and surviving spouses called “Aid and Attendance,” which potentially pays for personal care services, etc. By the time Laiderman filed for the pension for her mother, it was too late. Laiderman vowed to help make this benefit available to as many deserving veteran families as possible. In order to receive the benefits applicants have to meet some basic requirements including the veteran having served a minimum of 90 days of active duty with at least one day during wartime, have been given honorable discharge, and have limited financial resources in relation to medical expenses. Veterans Home Care offers in-home services such as help with bathing and dressing, medication reminders, transportation, meal preparation, transferring to and from bed, personal care, respite care, light housekeeping, laundry, companionship, and much more to improve quality of life.
Akin has tips for clients who are going care. For more details or to start the process yourself, through or are considering going through the contact Sarah Akin, 870-761-3594. Sarah provides these services in the State of Arkansas; however, process to receive these benefits. She advises, “Help me, help you. I need the Veteran Home Care employs field representatives families to assist me obtaining needed documents in most other states also. If you have relatives or and making sure I have all of the information I friends with such needs, you may contact Veterans need that will qualify a single or married veteran or Home Care directly for the proper representative at a surviving spouse in compliance for this pension. 877-390-6377. To all of the veterans and their families, past The surviving spouse benefit is one of the most prominent factors that make this program and present: Veterans Home Care thanks you for stand out because, as statistics show, women tend to your service. outlive their husbands and there are few programs available to them. If qualified, married couples receive about 90 hours a month of in-home care services, single veterans receive about 75 hours a month, and single survivors get about 48-50 hours per month. There are many ways a person can get the process started for themselves or for a family member in need of the benefits of With the portable, Veterans Home Care. “Families of veterans may lightweight, versatile contact me directly. I just need and reliable XPO2 answers to a few key questions to oxygen concentrator, you’ll breathe easy determine if they might be eligible knowing you’ve got for these services. I will provide the freedom to be you with the list of documents active again. Give us needed prior to a personal meeting. a call to learn more After that, we sign a packet of about the XPO2! paperwork, some for the VA and some for our records at Veterans Home Care. Usually it takes around 30-60 days (usually sooner) to start the services once we’ve sent in all of the completed packet. And just like that, you or a 501 W. Kingshighway 4707 E. Johnson loved one is well on your way to Paragould, AR 72450 Jonesboro, AR 72401 numerous benefits and in-home (870) 239-0997 (870) 972-5900
Breathe that springtime air.
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Route 27 (West)
East Washington Ave St. Bernards Senior Center//Benedictine Manor Clopton Clinic//Municipal Center Downtown Jonesboro//HCSI//Justice Complex West Jonesboro//ACJHS//JKC//Public Library//JHS Earl Bell Community Center//St. Bernards Medical Center//St. Bernards Medical Mile
Route 17 (Central)
Wal-Mart/Turtle Creek Mall Service - Exclusive to Wal-Mart from 5:43 a.m. until 9:43 a.m. From 9:43 a.m. until end of day service alternates between Wal-Mart & Turtle Creek Mall ASU HPESS //Marion Berry Parkway and Eldridge StJohnson Av//Collegiate Park//ASU Parking Services North Park Quads//ASU Convocation Ctr ULE & Danner St//ULE & E. Aggie Rd ULE and Osage Street//Bookout Plaza ASU Library and Museum (Suspended Temporarily) W. Aggie Road and ULW//Caraway Plaza Kroger//Shoe Carnival//Wal-Mart (Highland) Market Place Dr. & Wilkins St//Eastgate Plaza Valley View Adult Education Ctr/DCI Forrest Home Road//Hays
Route 37 (North)
ASU Marion Berry Parkway//The Edge West Aggie Road//Bills Market//North Main Street Parker Park Community Center//North Church Street Magnolia Road//North Patrick Street//Belt Street North Caraway Road//Text Book Brokers Johnson and Melrose
Route 47 (Industrial Park/Southeast)
Central Transfer Station//East Matthews Ave Turtle Creek Mall//East Highland Dr//Industrial Park ASU Newport//Nettleton Jr. High School Allen Park Community Ctr//Hotel Row U.S. Post Office//Social Security Administration DHS Child Support Unit//The Links (East) Fox Meadow Lane//The Links (West) Gladiolus Apartments//DHS Mid-South Health Systems Wal-Mart (Highland Dr/Browns Lane) DMJHS/Visual & Performing Arts Magnet Payless/Suddenlink//Eastwood Court
Serving Those Who Cannot Access JETS Fixed Route Service JETS provides ADA Paratransit services for our riders whose mobility challenges are significant enough to prevent them from accessing JETS Wheel-Chair-Life Equipped Fixed Route buses. JETS ADA Paratransit service is FTA required as a complement to our fixed Route service. JETS only offers Paratransit service within a 3/4 mile of our fixed Route service. Eligibility for JETS complementary Paratransit service is determined by the JETS staff who, using information from a rider’s health care provider, determines the functional mobility of an applicant. An application for admission as a Paratransit client can be obtained by calling JETS at (870) 935-5387 and asking for the Paratransit Service Desk or our website. JETS Paratransit service is offered on a “next day” basis, which means that a rider who has been admitted as a client must arrange his/her ride at least one day in advance of the date a trip is desired. “Next day” service reservations can be made between the hours of 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Monday- Friday by calling (870) 935-5387. A Sunday reservation for a Monday trip can be made by calling the above number and leaving a message. A reservation for the “day after a Holiday” can be made in the same manner by calling and leaving a message on the Holiday. The fare for JETS Paratransit service is $2.50 per trip, with a trip being defined as the distance between one’s point of pick-up to the destination. A Paratransit rider may have a Personal Care Attendant (PCA) at no additional cost. A PCA reservation must be made at the same time as that of the Paratransit rider. Please note that JETS does not provide PCA care. Up to one non-PCA guest of the Paratransit rider may also be scheduled, however, the non PCA guest must pay a $2.50 fare per trip. Also note that JETS Paratransit service is considered Non-Emergency Medical transportation. Under FTA regulations, JETS drivers may not provide assistance to a rider other than in assisting a wheel-chair client to board and be secured in JETS’ vehicles. Furthermore, JETS Paratransit service cannot be of a more comprehensive nature than “door to door.”
For more information on times and locations please visit:
www.ridejets.com (870) 935-JETS (5387)
Routes run Monday-Friday: 5:30am-6:30pm
Left to right: Shelia Weaver, Barbara Hardy, Charles Ellison, Linda Morris, Jim Morgan, Denise Morgan, Janis Hunt Front Row: Charlotte Fletcher, Pat Cosby
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Summer 2014
Paragould Bees: Get up & Get Busy
Written By: Lisa Tedder, Staff Writer Photographed By: Staci Vandagriff & Dustin Hood
T
he biggest benefit of retiring is having time to devote to the things you enjoy most in life such as family, hobbies, and travel. In order to get the most from your retirement years, exercise should play an important role in your daily activities. A good exercise plan will keep you healthier, stronger, less prone to falls, and improve your mood and mental function. There are many ways to remain physically active so you can find one that fits your personality and budget. Socializing with friends and family, exercising, and learning new things clearly help keep your brain sharp as you age so if you can combine all three, you are doing well! The Paragould Bees are a line dance group that has successfully fused friendship and learning with exercise. The group started over 10 years ago when Pat Cosby attended the line dance class at the Senior BEES Center in Paragould. After
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the first week, the teacher asked Pat to continue teaching the class because she had too many family obligations. Pat has been the teacher ever since though health issues have slowed her down a bit and Linda Morris now coordinates the group’s activities. The members all share a love of dancing and music. One member was a ballroom dancer 40 years ago as a young bride but dancing had fallen by the wayside over the years. One night, she saw her Aunt Pat line dancing and she thought, “I want to do that!”. The other members met Pat at dances around Northeast Arkansas and soon joined her class. Most of the group has danced together for 10 years and they perform at various events around the area such as the Greene County Fair and the Collins Theater or entertain at local nursing homes. The members all agree that they have become fast friends and enjoy each other’s company whether they are dancing, talking, or just goofing off. They often go out to eat after class or go out on Friday
Call to see how you can receive a FREE security system! 16
www.jvlsecurity.com Summer 2014
night. Jim Morgan still works and he looks forward to any chance to get away. The line dance class has helped relieve his stress and has become important to maintain his peace of mind. Barbara Hardy never misses a class if she can help it and says the exercise makes her feel better. Many people would like to dance but if they don’t have a partner, they may feel they can’t participate. In line dancing, you don’t have a partner so anyone can join in. Line dancing has been around for hundreds of years and many cultures such as those from Europe, Africa and South America have various types of line dancing. Typically the dancers line up in one or more rows and follow a choreographed pattern of steps to music. Often these dances were ways to show off for, or interact with, the opposite sex. In the U.S., we often associate line dancing with country music but actually, any kind of music can be used. The Paragould Bees dance to country, oldies, and
Jay Clayton jay@jvlsecurity.com
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popular music of today like the song “Happy”. If you are interested in trying line dancing, you can call Linda Morris at (870) 219-2581 or email her at lkm099@yahoo.com. The advanced/intermediate class meets every Tuesday morning at 9 a.m. at the Senior BEES Center in Paragould. The beginner/ intermediate class meets on Monday and Wednesday from 12:30 to 2:30 at the Center. Both classes are free. The members are very encouraging and remind everyone that they all still make mistakes so just jump in and have fun! If dancing isn’t your thing, you may want to give the SilverSneakers program a try. SilverSneakers is an exercise plan offered by many health insurance plans around the U.S. You must be eligible for Medicare or be a group retiree to participate but check with your insurance provider to find out if SilverSneakers is offered through your plan. It includes a free membership to participating gyms with customized classes for older adults to improve their strength, flexibility, balance, and endurance. A SilverSneakers membership also includes access to the gym’s equipment, pools, saunas and occasional health education classes. Walking is another great form of exercise that almost anyone can do and is free. Find a friend or two to walk with for encouragement and fun. When the weather is bad, many seniors turn to the local mall to keep walking. A dog makes a great walking partner as well. If you don’t have one, ask a friend or a neighbor if you can walk their dog - it will benefit you both. Just make sure the dog is well behaved and knows how to walk on a leash. Swimming is a great, low impact exercise almost anyone can do. The Arthritis Foundation recommends swimming and water activities as a way to exercise with less pain and stress on your joints. A masters swim program is for anyone over the age of 18 and provides tips on techniques and great workout programs. If you are interested, there are even masters swim competitions. Check your local pool for a masters swim class or other water aerobic classes.
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Extensive research has shown that exercise is the single best thing you can do for your health. It will help you feel more energetic, lose weight, sleep better, lower your blood pressure, help control diabetes, relieve the pain of arthritis, reduce stress, feelings of depression and improve your overall quality of life. So quit finding excuses not to exercise, get out there, get moving, and have fun!
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Home Health vs Personal Care
What You Need to Know About In-Home Care Providers
T
he most common goal among senior citizens is to live independently for as long as possible. There are a large variety of in-home care providers that strive for maintaining your independence. It’s strongly encouraged to first evaluate your specific needs to help determine which of these agencies is best for you. Do you need help getting out of bed and dressed every morning? Do you require medical care for a wound? Do you need help managing your medications? Or perhaps someone to help keep track of that everygrowing stack of bills? Do you find it hard to prepare meals? First, we need to have a clear understanding of what home health and personal care are. The Department of Human Services defines home health as services intended to help people through serious episodes of illness (often following hospitalizations). Where as personal care are services aiding to delay or prevent entry into a nursing home. What you need help with will determine which care agency
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is best for you. In Arkansas, there are three different types of licensed agencies: Class A, Class B, or Class C. Class A licensed agencies are a home health agency specializing in intermittent skilled care and extended care services. They have nurses, physical therapists, occupational therapists, speech therapists, and social workers on-staff or contracted to tend to your medical requirements. This class of agencies are the only ones that can administer doctor-ordered medications or treatments. Class A agencies bill Medicaid, Medicare, BlueCross, and other private insurances. Class B agencies are licensed to provide adult companion services. This includes meal preparation, laundry, and help with getting bathed or dressed. Most Class B agencies are able to arrange for transportation to doctor appointments. This type of agency can also help with keeping bills and financial records organized, along with medication management. While they are prohibited to physically interact with a patient’s medication, they can set up reminders to take your
medication and guide you in organizing your prescriptions. They bill your Medicaid insurance. Class C agencies are very much similar to Class B in regards to what services they are able to offer. The main difference is in how they are funded. While most agencies bill your Medicare, Medicaid, or private insurance policies, Class C agencies are able to bill privately. In this scenario the patient becomes the employer. If your care is being funded by Medicaid or Medicare, each have specific regulations in how you care is to be provided and you may experience some minor limitations. While some of the roles each of the various in-home care and personal care agencies are similar, it is important to be aware of the differences. It’s not uncommon to have both a Class A licensed agency and a Class B agency. If you have any questions about home care providers, any of the providers listed in our directory (page 28) will be glad to assist you.
Class A (Professional Home Care Agency License) Provider may offer all home care services, at least one of which is nursing, physical therapy, speech therapy, nutritional services, medical social services, home health aid tasks, or the provision of medical supplies and equipment when accompanied by a home care service. These services may be provided in a place of residence, including a residential center.
Class B (Paraprofessional Agency License) Under this license, a provider may perform home care aid tasks and home management tasks in place of residence.
Class C (Individual Paraprofessional License) Under this license, a provider may perform home health aid, home care aid, and home management tasks in a place of residence.
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Sav v y S e n i o r T rav e l e r T i ps f o r Us O l d e r A n t i q u e s i n Ac t i o n BY: DR. EMELDA WILLIAMS CO-OWNER OF TRAVEL WITH US
As
a senior citizen who has no intention on slowing down to a rocking chair, I have stowed that chair and gone into the travel business. I now plan and escort mature adults on group trips by plane, train, or motor coach. Travel is my Fountain of Youth. Here are some tips to use when traveling: -Divide your medications in a carryon pill container. Have a list of your prescriptions and their generic names on an emergency form that includes your emergency contact information. -Drink plenty of fluids while traveling and stop and stretch as much as possible -Get good medical insurance that covers preexisting conditions. (For my escorted travel groups, your age will not cause your travel insurance to go up even if you are 98 years old.) -Pack lightly with loose clothing in luggage with wheels. Leave your fine jewelry at home, when traveling wear costume jewelry. -Carry an extra pair of glasses, hearing aids, batteries, and other essentials. Be sure to pack a small first-aid kit with sunscreen and
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other skin lotions you usually use at home. (If flying, put all liquids in 3 oz bottles and place in a quart zip-lock bag for airport screening) -Take a picture of your hotel business card and room number with your cell phone. In the event you should misplace your information or if memory should fail you, that information is easily accessible. -If you are a slow walker, request a wheel chair or electric cart to make connections at airports and other transportation terminals. -Ask for senior discounts everywhere you go. -Carry small cash amounts for tips and other miscellaneous purchases and stash your larger bills with a body safe. Some travelers even store their cash in empty deodorant or other empty product containers. -Do not use traveler’s checks; use a debit card (memorize your PIN number) and local currency will come out. For other questions, please call Dr. Emelda Williams with Travel With Us at (870) 932-7221 or (800) 934-7221 or email her at emelda@travelwithusjonesboro.com.
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served as a beacon of inspiration. However, she wasn’t ready to make the rehabilitation facility her final home. In some cases when a patient is admitted to a longterm care facility they don’t always have their home to return to. Often their belongings are sold in effort Written By: Dustin Hood, Editor-in-Chief to pay for their care expenses, Warmhearted, diligent, and She was hospitalized for 26 days Rheba was no exception to this inspiriting are three words that and then was transferred to Green generalization. While she could walk come to mind when thinking of Ms. Acres Nursing and Rehabilitation to with the assistance of her walker, her symptoms were kept under close Rheba Hunt. Rheba is a God-loving continue treatment. woman who was born and raised in “I didn’t have a choice if I wanted watch and maintained at a moderate the heart of downtown Paragould. to go or not, it was doctor’s orders. I level, but still had a low chance of Like most people who were lost everything, I mean everything.” ever achieving an independent life raised in rural communities, Rheba Always one to try and make the style. Most people aren’t aware that knows the sting of cotton bowls best out of less fortunate situations, digging into her finger-tips and the Rheba soon made friends with some even when there seems to be no pay off of a hard day’s work. One day of the other guests of Green Acres. options, there is likely a program after a long day in the field she was She met a gentleman who seemed that exists to offer a helping hand. relaxing outside painting her bicycle to have symptoms that mirrored It was at this time that Rheba met when she received a phone call from her own. They often sat in their Barbara Weese, a caseworker with The Daily Press at the neighbor’s motorized wheelchairs and shared Money Follows the Person (MFP), house offering her a job paying 75 stories of their life, developing a a federal initiative dedicated to enabling long-term care patients to cents an hour. supportive friendship. Rheba accepted the opportunity “Do you know what you have?” live independently. Barbara describes MFP as “a and soon became a proofreader She asked her friend one day. and circulation manger for the “No, ma’am I don’t.” He program that gets, not just seniors, but anyone that is financially and newspaper. She worked long hours responded. from seven in the morning to ten He later asked one of his nurses physically able to come out of the o’clock at night. She also worked and indeed they both shared the same nursing home and back out into the community.” at Sears for seven years as a credit d i a g n o s i s . “I didn’t think it was time for me T h e manager and Emerson for 26 years. R h e b a requirements “I never really had to look for n a t u r a l l y to make that my final home.” to qualify for work, jobs seemed to find me” she wanted to recalled. help him through the emotions of MFP begin with staying in a longRheba never married. She cared his newfound condition and had term care facility for at least 90 days for her mother and her sister until the staff print off information about and on Medicaid for one day. After a series of evaluations by their passing. It was one day in 2012, cellulitis and gave it to her friend. her life took a dramatic change. “You know Ms. Rheba,” he said MFP and the Department of Human August 5th of 2012, after to her one day during one of their Services to confirm that Rheba trying to bare the painful burning routine chats, “you don’t know how was physically able to maintain sensations and failed attempts of that piece of paper has made me feel, her independence, Barbara helped self-medicating the inflammations I have something I can research and Rheba apply for a waiver that will on her legs, she was taken to the education myself on this condition.” help provide personal care inside the emergency room where she was That simple bit of information home. For those under 65 years of diagnosed with cellulitis, a severe provided him with peace and age the waiver applied for is known bacterial infection that causes pain confidence. All the while, she as Alternative Adult with Physical and fatigue in most patients. continued her therapy sessions and Disabilities, those over 65 apply for
Improving Quality of Life and
Restoring Independence
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Barbara Weese (left) presents Rheba Hunt (right) with the keys to her new apartment via the Money Follows the Person initiative. Elder’s Choice. Once this waiver is the apartment and utilities becomes Barbara says to those who think approved MFP seeks out a suitable the financial responsibility of they or someone they know may be living arrangement. This initiative the individual. When selecting a candidate for Money Follows the pays for the costly deposits of an an apartment, Barbara takes Person, “We never know what our apartment as well as the utilities the candidate’s income into limits are until we stretch ourselves. and then proceeds to furnish the consideration. I think it’s an amazing opportunity “I didn’t believe it at first when for people who are physically and apartment with home furnishings I heard of the program” Rheba financially able enough to go back and a fully stocked cupboard. “I felt like a bird out of a cage!” said, “but they take such good care out into the community. That’s what Rheba exclaimed when Barbara of me and I feel much happier and we want more than anything. We will presented her to the keys to her very thankful.” She now enjoys give it every effort that we have.” very own apartment. Coincidentally each morning with a cup of coffee Any one can make a referral her new apartment neighbored the while exercising her mind with a to MFP by calling Barbara Weese apartment she called home prior to word search puzzle or watching The at (870) 935-3737 or by calling the entering Green Acres. Walkers or recordings of church Department of Human Services Having personal care available services from West View Baptist in Little Rock (501) 320-6579 after leaving a nursing facility is Church. or by telling the long-term care “I think everybody deserves administrator that you would like key to maintaining independence. Once the initial deposits are made, the opportunity to give it a try,” the potential candidate to go home via MFP.
Summer 2014
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Summer 2014
At Curtis Chiropractic and Wellness Center we use several
methods of healthcare proven safe and effective to treat your health problems. These methods include Chiropractic Care, Kinesio Taping, Rehabilitation, and Acupuncture. Using these methods, we are able to treat a variety of conditions including: back pain, neck pain, headaches, arthritis, disc problems, sciatica, allergies, sports injuries, joint pain, TMJ problems, and carpal tunnel syndrome just to name a few. Chiropractic adjustments restore normal function to the spine and other joints of the body to resolve any health problems created by loss of functions. One of the techniques we use in our clinic that differ from traditional chiropractic treatments is the use of the Impulse Adjustment Instrument. Adjustments with this instrument feel like a light tapping sensation on the area that is being treated. It is safe and gentle enough to use on even the most severe cases. Dr. Curtis is certified in Kinesio Taping and Acupuncture. Kinesio Taping is a definitive rehabilitation taping technique that is designed to facilitate the body's natural healing process while providing support and stability to muscles and joints without restricting the body's range of motion. This tapping method is safe for populationations ranging from Pediatric to geriatric patients and successfully treats a variety of orthopedic, neuromuscular, neurological, and other medical conditions. Acupuncture is a form of therapy that developed in China between 5,000-7,000 years ago. Acupuncturists stimulate acupoints on the patent's skin to balance energy flow in the patient. An imbalance in energy flow in the human body can lead to many health problems. Traditionally, stimulation of these acupoints was performed with needles, but research has shown the same and sometimes better results using electric stimulation. Dr. Curtis uses an electric probe that provides a mild electrical current to acupoints on the skin. It is noninvasive, safe, and pain free. Visiting a Chiropractor is not something you should do only when you are in pain. Chiropractors are here to help prevent the pain from happening. The spine coordinates all movements of the body and is a vital part of our overall health. Even our normal daily activities put stress on our spine causing dysfunction. Wellness visits maintain normal function to the spine, correcting small problems before they become larger ones that will ultimately producing pain, stiffness and tension. Seeing a Chiropractor regularly will help maintain your optimal health. Most chiropractors will do a consult with no obligation. Talk to them and discuss your health problems and concerns. Ask about the type of treatments thy provide. Today most chiropractic treatments can be performed with no pain or discomfort to the patient. Summer 2014
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D iRECTO Ry Magazine
Auto
A+ Auto Sales 870.932.7456 Broken Spoke 870.240.0090 Stadium Auto Body Jonesboro 870.932.5540 Paragould 870.215.0700
Insurance/Legal Services
Accurate Insurance Services 870.275.4029 Teague Law Firm 870.358.2304
Medical Supply/Pharmacy
Affordable Medical Supply Jonesboro- 870.972.5900 Paragould- 870.239.0997 Arkansas Relay Systems 866.545.4012 Shinny’s Nyal Drug Store 870.358.2135 Soo’s Drug Store 870.935.6930
Personal Care Agency
AllCare Homecare 870.926.4536 Caring Hearts 870.358.3344
Home Health/Long-Term Care Agency Extended Family Home Health 870.932.7463 Three Rivers Healthcare and Rehabilitation 870.358.2432 Veterans Home Care 870.761.3594
Beauty/Appearal
Arkansas Academy of Hair Design Jonesboro- 870.935.3531 Paragould- 870.236.4410 BeautiControl 870.919.5846 HealthWear Inc 870.336.3046 Mary Kay 870.926.6541 Talk of the Town Consignment 870.934.8600 The Scrubs Shack 870.275.7441
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Summer 2014
Dining/Grocery
Bishops BBQ 870.268.0725 Chicken City 870.932.0001 Colton’s Steak House 870.802.4000 J&M Cakes and Supplies 870.268.8611 Roma’s Italian Restaurant 870.275.7697 San Diego Taco Company 870.336.2406
Real Estate
Birch & Co. 870.847.7653 Paragould Home Source 870.236.3100
Medical Practitioner
Curtis Chiropractic 870.934.9900 Gill Eye Care 870.236.9371 Hearing Aid Center Jonesboro 870.932.3002 Paragould 870.239.3072 Southern Eye Associates 870.935.6396
Home Improvement/Security
Gilmore’s Custom Kitchens 870.932.7638 Jim Heath’s Floor Care 870.761.0185 JVL Security 870.578.7302 Razorback Carpet Cleaning 870.236.7606 Southern Management 870.933.7076
Transportation/Travel
JET Systems 870.935.5387 Travel With Us 870.934.7221
Miscellaneous
Greenway Formula 7 870.919.1924 Peace Hill Farms 870.240.5764 R&R Ceramics 870.935.9686 USA Gold 870.253.9202 West Dry Cleaners 870.935.3577
20% Off Entire Order Expires August 31, 2014
Recieve $3 off your order Offer expires August 31, 2014
$2 OFF
ANY PLATE Get $2.00 off the price of any plate from our menu.
With coupon. Not valid w/other offers. Expires 8-31-14
ROMA’S
Italian Restaurant Dine In/ To Go
20% Off 3.3 oz Product
Buy two entrees and enjoy a FREE cheesecake.
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Free Dozen Chocolate or Vanilla Cupcakes with $50 purchase Expires August 31, 2014
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Come in Today for a Free Eyebrow Waxing Expires August 31, 2014
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When You Bring in 3 Like Garments Get the 4th FREE! Must Present Coupon with INCOMING ORDER EXPIRES AUGUST 31, 2014
Bring in this ad for $20 off a lift chair. 501 W. Kingshighway • Paragould, AR • (870) 239-0997 • 4707 E. Johnson Ave. • Jonesboro, AR • (870) 972-5900 COUPON DISCLAIMER: Coupon must be presented at the advertised business location at the time of redemption. Limit one per customer. Coupons may not be combined with any other offer. Photocopies or coupons printed on any paper stock other than 70# Color Gloss Coated, as appears in this printed magazine, are invalid and will not be redeemed. The business reserves the right to value the coupon. All coupons expire on August 31, 2014. Please do not abuse these coupons so that we may continue to bring you additional money-saving offers. Summer 2014
29
Property Management You Can Trust
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