December 2014 / January 2015 Vol 41 No. 2 Published by
Senior Services of Snohomish County
Retirees travel the virtual world By Teri Baker
Sandra Walker…
Stories of newspaper carriers brought to life
Page 4
Say Yes.... Support the Senior Focus Page 28
Savvy Senior
Quit smoking with help of Medicare, other tools Page 19
Foot health
Don‘t tiptoe around its importance
Page 12
Observation care costly for Medicare patients Page 6
BookNook....................................... 26 Elder Info........................................... 8 GetAways (Sr. Travel)..................... 14 Mr. Modem...................................... 28 Meal Times (Nutrition News)....... 20 Perspective on the Past................ 16 Pet Tails............................................ 27 Senior Spotlight............................... 4 Volunteer Connections................. 22 Where Are They Now?................... 22
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Milky Way Media heard that a Snohomish County man, Martin Buehler, built a flight simulator as a hobby and was using it and a software program based on Google 3-D maps with a group of retirees, he wanted to include them in the documentary.
“We were very excited to learn what Martin has been doing at Harbour Pointe because we feel it’s a very positive use of a new technology not normally associated with helping people enjoy life more fully,” DiMartino said. CONTINUED ON PAGE 2
New phone greeting reflects expanded services By Ann Gifford
Senior Services of Snohomish County
Columns…
non ProFiT orG The Senior Focus is a publication of uS PoSTAGe Senior ServiceS oF SnohomiSh counTy PAiD 11627 Airport rd., Suite B SounD PuBLiShinG The Senior Focus is published bi-monthly (February, April, everett WA 98204-8714 98204
Several residents of Harbour Pointe Retirement and Assisted Living Community entered a virtual world that will put some of them in a real-world television documentary on NKH, Japan’s public broadcasting network, in January. Last month a crew from Tokyo visited the Mukilteo retirement community to film a segment of an episode of a five-part documentary called “Next World,” which presents how technology will affect society in the next 20-30 years. The segment featuring the Harbour Pointe seniors is about virtual reality, a computer-generated environment so near to actual reality that a person using the computer program can virtually experience sight, taste, touch, smell, sound and movement. When Paul DiMartino of the New York production company
David Farrar sits in a comfortable chair that doubles as a cockpit in a flight simulator. Wearing special goggles, a computer program takes him back to the skies he flew for much of his life. Martin Buehler, who built the simulator, stands by as the cameraman films for a documentary.
If you’ve called our Senior Information and Assistance line lately, you may have noticed our new phone greeting: “Good morning, Senior Services Aging and Disability Resources.” This may seem like a small change, but it reflects a significant expansion of the assistance we now offer to the community. For decades, Senior Services has been the entry point for comprehensive information on services, programs and benefits for older adults. That isn’t changing, but we’re very excited to now also serve people of all ages with disabilities. Senior Services has a long history of growing and adapting to meet the needs of people living in Snohomish County. We started 40 years ago by providing information and assistance, home-delivered meals and congregate meals. Shortly after, rural transportation and minor home repair services were offered. Housing for low-income seniors, the DART paratransit program, multicul-
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tural resources, mental health services, caregiver support and a care coordination program have been added over the years. “Each change along the way has enabled us to help even more people,” said Jim Steinruck, CEO of Senior Services. “The same will be true as we implement the new Aging and Disability Resource Network (ADRN) model.” The ADRN is a resource for older adults, younger people with disabilities, caregivers and family members. “The overarching goals of the ADRN are to empower people to make well-informed decisions about their options, and to streamline access to needed services,” Steinruck said.
By working hard to coordinate the network of organizations that provide services and support, we can make it easier for you to find what you need and to live the lifestyle you desire. Senior Services may be growing and changing, but our roots are intact. No matter how we answer the phone, our mission remains the same: to promote independence, preserve dignity, and enhance the quality of life through the provision of services for older adults and people with disabilities. Ann Gifford is the Project Manager of the Aging and Disability Resource Network at Senior Services.
Powerful Partners Award
Senior Services honors The Everett Clinic By Teri Baker Senior Services, which has a proud tradition of helping seniors and people with disabilities live healthier, more independent lives, knows it wouldn’t be the renowned, far-reaching nonprofit agency it is without support from the Snohomish County community it serves. That’s why last year Senior Services started a new tradition, the Powerful Partners Award. “We want to recognize organi-
zations that we’ve reached out to or who have reached out to us,” explains Senior Services CEO Jim Steinruck. “These powerful partnerships have a significant impact on improving the lives of those who depend on us for their independence and quality of life.” This year Senior Services gratefully honored The Everett Clinic. “It has been a wonderful sponsor of ours for several years,” Steinruck points out. “They have the CONTINUED ON PAGE 3
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December, 2014/January, 2015 Senior Focus
Virtual world adventure CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1
“We’re here to film how he is able to help the residents do things and go places that they otherwise couldn’t. He’s helping them to extend their capabilities in the virtual world even though they may be more restricted by aging in the physical world.” Buehler first came to Harbour Pointe because his father-inlaw, Wayne Schoenmakers, has volunteered there since retiring five years ago. Schoenmakers, who lives nearby, started a men’s group there that he calls “Wayne’s World.” Since a number of the men are retired pilots, he thought they might enjoy a visit with Buehler and Buehler’s son, “AJ” Anand Soula, 13. As a hobby, Buehler had built a virtual reality flight simulator so they brought it along then and many times after to “let the guys fly again.” On the day of filming for the documentary, they also brought
the head-mounted display that allows people to enjoy the sensation of swimming with the dolphins, basking in the Spanish sun, walking through the Olympic rain forest, etc. Sylvia Luckie was the first to enter the virtual world. She listened carefully as Amand explained what to do with the fancy goggles. “Just hold it up like a pair of glasses and look around,” he said, then asked, “Now, where do you want to go?” Luckie decided to see her childhood home, but she and AJ couldn’t find it. No matter, Sylvia simply checked out the area around Harbour Pointe and was soon off to Pike Street Market. David Farrar took to the flight simulator as if he had navigated the skies most of his life, probably because he did. He settled into the pilot’s seat, listened to the noise of the engine, tested the pedals to make sure the brakes worked,
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operated throttle and pitch and soared through the wild blue yonder. Happy in his virtual world, he was oblivious to three Japanese cameramen surrounding him and another standing on a tall ladder filming from above. Former travel agent Gail Painter put on the goggles and enjoyed scuba diving again while she sat high and dry at home. “I want to live on an island,” she said as virtual reality took her to Hawaii. She smiled and said of her islands tour, “It brought back so many memories.” Some seniors enjoyed the sensation of walking down the streets of Europe, tilting their heads to look up at centuries-old buildings, turning to see what was behind and then facing front again to see what lay ahead. Others saw where they went to school, where they met their spouses or where
they served in the military. DiMartino, who has used virtual reality therapy in a rehabilitation center in Chicago, watched the expressions play across the faces of people enjoying their chosen experiences. “It’s more than a game,” he remarked. “This technology provides independence and freedom. People in wheelchairs are able to walk again in the virtual world.” Harbour Pointe residents are delighted that their experience in that virtual world doesn’t have to end just because the documentary segment is wrapped up. Buehler and AJ will come back as often as they can to lead their senior friends on new adventures. While the documentary is in Japanese, DiMartino said that there will be an English language version possibly on PBS or the Science Channel.
Health issues face baby boomers As the baby boomer generation ages into its golden years, it may find it has a somewhat tarnished lining. Two major health issues will predominate, as indeed it has for most people as they age: chronic illness, such as diabetes and/or heart disease, and the need for long-term care, as a result of those illnesses, or simply the frailty of extended years. These are the findings of a new report, 65+ in the United States, from the Census Bureau, commissioned by the National Institutes of Health (NIH). It notes that while smoking and excessive alcohol use have decreased, the rate of those overweight or obese has increased. This, in turn, leads to the development of a number of chronic illnesses and possibly higher death rates.
Long-term care is related to this, but is also serious because there is little or no protection for those who need these services. The report notes that “less than one-fifth of older people have the personal financial resources to live in a nursing home for more than three years and almost two-thirds cannot afford even one year.” As most long-term care is still provided by family members, a serious lack in providing care is on the horizon. “Baby boomers had far fewer children than their parents. Combined with higher divorce rates and disrupted family structures, this will result in fewer family members to provide long-term care in the future,” said NIH’s Richard Suzman. For additional information, visit the National Institute of Health at nih.gov. – Cheryl Keyser
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Editor Sharon Ostant 425.290.1277 Advertising Account Manager Dale Bohm 425.263.1868 Published bi-monthly with a readership of 38,000+, the Senior Focus educates and entertains readers (seniors, family caregivers, service providers, and other interested persons) with news and information that reflects the diverse interests and needs of the senior community. Signed articles are the opinion of the writer and not necessarily the opinion of Senior Services or the Senior Focus. Distribution: 20,000 papers are mailed to households and senior friendly businesses in Snohomish, North King and Island counties; 3,500 papers are distributed at drop-off locations such as senior centers, retirement communities, hospitals, medical clinics, etc. Advertising: The existence of advertising in this publication is not meant as an endorsement of the individual, service, or product by anyone except the advertiser. Associate member of the Washington Newspaper Publishers Association
Senior Focus December, 2014/January, 2015
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The Everett Clinic … a powerful partner Large, small organizations CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1
same mission, values, breadth of service and vision that we do. We fit well together and both offer not duplication, but complementary services.” Everett Clinic CEO Rick Cooper, who, along with Dr. James Lee, accepted the award, echoed Steinruck’s remarks. “We work with and care for many of the same people so I think we have a chance to evolve a unique, collaborative relationship,” Cooper says. “We care for 45,000 people so we are absolutely focused on what SSSC does because our purpose and goals really are complementary in nature.” Lee, who is also on the Senior Services board of directors, says, “The broad thinking is that this is about how to work in synergy to help older people in our community. In addition to providing medical care, we physicians often find ourselves in a state of frustration in terms of helping our patients accomplish their health goals because what we see often is that while medical needs are addressed in the physician’s office, social support and other support isn’t there for them. “We also see families with great intentions of caring for their parents but are feeling lost in terms of finding help. In many cases by combining services such as transportation, Meals on Wheels and social services available at Senior Services, along with a solid medical plan, quality of life of our seniors’ does improve dramatically. We as a community have many wonderful programs. When working together we can really add to the dimension of care 24 hours a day, seven days a week.” Lee offers an example: We see patients fall daily because of poor
Say Yes....
environment at home. Services such as Senior Services Minor Home Repair help prevent unnecessary injury among our elderly. “When Everett Clinic says they want to serve ‘the whole you,’ they really mean it,” Steinruck adds. “We’ve been working closely with them at every level. It’s an organization that really gets it. “They have wonderful employees that have brought us truckloads of pet food to deliver with Meals on Wheels so seniors don’t worry about sharing their meals with their furry friends. They created a fundraising opportunity where employees paid $5 each to wear jeans on Fridays with the proceeds going to Senior Services.” They have also put together hundreds of personal care kits for seniors.” “Everett Clinic’s history of giving back to the community through volunteerism and financial support is part of their culture and their DNA,” Steinruck says. “They partner with our nutrition staff to provide chronic disease self-management classes. They also provide much needed financial support with grants and annual sponsorships.” Cooper says, “Last year as we celebrated Everett Clinic’s 90th anniversary, we talked about what we call our secret sauce, which includes a wonderful spirit of generosity within our organization. We give of our time in the community and around the world. We’re also generous in giving money. We created our foundation to give back to the communities we serve. We don’t seek attention for this; it’s just part of what we do.” Everett Clinic intends to continue being a powerful partner. “People are engaged in a spirit of collaboration at Everett Clinic and Senior Services,” Cooper says. “We’re looking forward to the opportunity to do more work together and expand our relationship as we seek to improve the quality of life for those we care about and care for.” +
Support the Senior Focus. See page 28
make powerful partners By Teri Baker
It’s not just large organizations that partner with Senior Services to improve the lives of older adults and people with disabilities. The agency honors two organizations each year with a Powerful Partner Award.
Snohomish County Music Project
This year an award also went to the Snohomish County Music Project. “The Music Project helps children access music education and is developing a music therapy program for at-risk children, veterans and people with Alzheimer’s,” says Senior Services CEO Jim Steinruck. “Not only that, but these talented musicians provide entertainment for our annual fundraising dinner. They’re a great group.”
2013 Powerful Partner Awards
Last year’s recipients were Community Transit and Verdant Health Commission. Senior Services and Community Transit have worked together for 23 years to ensure that people with disabilities have safe and accessible transportation.
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“They do transportation well and we know our senior population well, so it was a natural fit,” Steinruck says. “Our Dial-A-Ride (DART) contract with Community Transit allows us to provide more than 194,000 rides each year with 54 wheelchair-accessible buses.” Verdant Health Commission was 2013’s second honoree. The partnership began two years ago when Senior Services approached the commission for a grant to help fund a new health initiative in south Snohomish County. “Most grant proposals ask the question. ‘What will you do if you aren’t funded at the requested level?’” Steinruck says. “Well, in this case, they actually asked us to think bigger. Today, thanks to Verdant, our new facility, the Center for Healthy Living, is now open in Lynnwood.” Senior Services is looking forward to honoring two more organizations in 2015. “We’re thankful for the partners we have,” Steinruck says, “and we’re looking for even more partners. When we all work together to complement each other’s work, we can make Snohomish County a healthier place for our senior and disabled citizens to live.”
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December, 2014/January, 2015 Senior Focus
Author brings bygone world of newspaper carriers to life Senior Spotlight Someone We’d Like You to Meet…
By Teri Baker Sandra Walker didn’t start out to write a book. She just wanted to create a personal family history that would honor her late brother’s memory. “My brother Carl’s paper route meant so much to him,” she says. “He was a paperboy in central Ohio from 1947 through 1950. Newspaper companies awarded prizes to their top carriers, and in 1948 the newspaper gave my brother tickets to the see the Cleveland Indians in the World Series. He kept the program from that day all his life.” Carl died in 1998, and when Sandra’s grandson turned five in 2006, Sandra wanted him to know what his uncle’s childhood had been like. She became involved in a Near History pilot project at the Museum of History and Industry and began interviewing area
residents whose younger years included delivering newspapers any time during the Roaring Twenties through 1970. A warm, gracious woman with a smile that lights up the room, Sandra, 72, is a good listener and genuinely interested in others. Former carriers were delighted to share their stories with her. Eventually, the Everett woman interviewed more than 400 men and women all over the United States and included about 200 of them in her well-crafted book, Little Merchants. “Those kids just wrapped themselves around my heart,” she says. “Their stories needed to be told.” And tell them she did, bringing each child, each circumstance to life. A contemporary of many of them, she understands about “porching” papers and delivering along miles-long, rutted country lanes and busy city streets, inside office buildings, taverns and pool halls. During her interviews she gained a broader view of her brother’s childhood. To Sandra, he was her big
brother, four years older than she, a normal kid, but she hadn’t really known this part of his world. Sandra was born in Frederick, Maryland, where she and her brother and sister lived until she was six. Her father had died in World War II and her mother moved the family to Ohio where Sandra would remain through college. Having been reared in the Depression, her mother knew how to make ends meet. “We had a very large garden,” Sandra recalls. “Grandpa helped us with it and we would sell some of the produce. I remember we sold a dozen ears of corn for a quarter.”
As a family history project, Sandra Walker started out writing about her brother’s paper route. The project soon grew to include interviews with several hundred people. ’Their stories needed to be told,’ she says, so she wrote Little Merchants.
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It was a time when children didn’t expect things to be handed to them on a platter. They earned their own money. Sandra babysat, but not every day. “I didn’t appreciate how much was involved in Carl’s work,” she says. “You can’t believe what it was like to be a paperboy. It was the only steady first job children could have and they did it year round, day after day.” Her job and Carl’s had one thing in common. Their mother insisted they learn to handle money responsibly. “Mother said I must save money,” Sandra explains. “Even when I was out of college I saved money. It has served me well, and I taught my own girls to save.” Sandra talked financial matters CONTINUED ON PAGE 5
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SANDRA
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through with her mother. Carl’s experience was more intense. “He had to keep track of how much he paid for his papers, which customers were weekly, which were Sunday only and so forth, as well as what he collected, who hadn’t paid, all the things that are part of the carrier business,” she says. “And everything had to be accounted for to the penny.” From Carl and the other men and women whose stories she tells, Sandra learned that carriers had to be strong. “When a child could heft a canvas newspaper bag with a hundred papers in it, you knew he was physically fit,” she says.
JOB BUILT CHARACTER
The job also built character and a solid work ethic. “They just did their jobs and didn’t fuss about cold winds or a tummy ache,” she says. “They learned how to be on a team and deal with contentious customers. They learned self-discipline and became work-ready kids who could go on to bigger and better jobs.” Young Sandra had only one minor experience with Carl’s job. “He had a bad concussion and the doctor said he couldn’t be out,” she says. “The bundles of papers were there and had to be delivered no matter what, so mother drove his route and I ran the papers up to the porch.” That’s when, her fingers smeared with ink, Sandra learned exactly why her mother always told Carl, “Wash your hands with soap and water and don’t get the towel dirty.” A gifted storyteller, Sandra wasn’t always a writer. She has a degree in health education from Ohio State University, where she subsequently taught in the dental hygiene program; a master’s from Michigan; and taught histology at Cincinnati University. Along the way she married Terry Walker, whom she had known all through high school. His military service took them to Germany for two years and then to a posting at Fort Lewis. “I loved it here,” Sandra says. “When we went back to Ohio, all I wanted to do was get back to the northwest.” Terry became Safeco marketing broker for the United States
in 1978 and he, Sandra and their two daughters moved to company headquarters in Washington. Sandra taught at the University of Washington dental hygiene program and went on to become director of the university’s oral maxillofacial surgery clinic. “When Terry and I became empty nesters, I did what I wanted to do,” Sandra says. “I went to UW and became an academic counselor so I could take courses, and got my BA in English and History.” It was after the 40th anniversary of D-Day that Sandra began writing, although not for publication. “I was researching information on my father,” she says. “I didn’t know him or about him. I knew he had been buried in France and I felt an emptiness, a feeling that there was something more.”
FAMILY HISTORY She also wanted her children to have a sense of family history, to know about their grandfather, Major Robert A. Lane, who served in the Second Armored Division. Sandra wrote to the Division for more information. “He was an officer with so many under him,” she says. “I got responses from everywhere. It was incredible.” Eventually, she traveled to Morocco where her dad had landed during the North Africa Campaign, and to Normandy where his troops began their push into Germany. She wrote a few articles for Second Armored Division publications, but her main purpose was to create a family record. When she tried to do the same thing to honor her brother, she learned so much from so many about their different experiences as paper carriers, she felt compelled to write Little Merchants. Her book has made her a popular speaker throughout the state, and in January she will teach at the UW’s Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at Everett’s Carl Gipson Senior Center. “I’m teaching a course that encourages people to write their own stories,” she says with warm enthusiasm. “People have phenomenal stories – and age gives you a better perspective.” Helping writers has become a way of life for Sandra. She is on the committee that puts together the annual Write on the Sound writer’s conference in Edmonds. She also belongs to Northwest Women Writers and last year skillfully led a team of editors
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New helpline for those with arthritis The Arthritis Foundation, Great West Region has announced the launch of the Arthritis Helpline, a comprehensive telephone service to provide information to those affected by arthritis. The Helpline (888-391-9389 option 101) gives callers the opportunity to speak one-on-one with staff about their unique arthritis needs. The Helpline offers the latest information on types of arthritis, medications and treatments. Additionally, the Helpline can direct individuals to rheumatologists in their area, local programs listings, research updates and news related to the latest trends in arthritis care. “In today’s day and age, many people rely on the internet as their source of information. It can be hard for people to sort through the hundreds of varying websites, opinions and perspectives on the internet, especially related to a chronic illness like arthritis,” said Lisa Fall, Chief Mission Officer for the Arthritis Foundation, Great West Region.
Fall continued, “We want to help those with arthritis sort through all that clutter by providing a toll-free telephone helpline.” When individuals call the Arthritis Helpline, they can discuss their specific needs for their arthritis care. They may be seeking basic disease overview information, the latest research studies related to up-and-coming medications, alternative or complementary therapy guides or a list of local educational opportunities featuring medical experts. No matter what they are seeking, we want to ensure that they speak with our staff members one-onone so that we can cater to their needs.” The Arthritis Helpline can be reached by dialing 888-391-9389 option 101.
for the organization’s soon-to-bepublished anthology publication. She says she became involved because, “This is a group of pleasant people, talented writers who want to encourage other women to write.” Sandra has already started on a book about eight different stories of women from the World War II era. “Each had a childhood imbedded in the horrors of war,” she says. “Lily lived in the Philippines under Japanese occupation. Marie was in Greece under the Nazis, and Ruth lived on the border of East Germany under the communists. All of them came to the
United States; all have a strong faith and have built lives around faith, family and friends.” In addition to writing, Sandra is active in her church, volunteers in the emergency room at Providence Regional Medical Center in Everett, enjoys gardening and loves traveling. She especially enjoys knowing her hard work on Little Merchants brings so many seniors back to the newspaper carrier days that helped shape their lives. For additional information about Sandra and her book, visit thelittlemerchants.com.
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December, 2014/January, 2015 Senior Focus
Observation care costly for Medicare patients By Cheryl M. Keyser Too late, Medicare beneficiaries may find a hitch in their coverage of which they are unaware until the bill comes due. It is called “observation” status. Basically, this means that although an individual is in the hospital undergoing the usual multitude of tests and treatments, s/he has not been officially admitted as an inpatient. “It’s a little Medicare payment coding change that can add up to big out-of-pocket expenses for some beneficiaries,” said Sen. Bill Nelson (D-Fla.), Chairman of the Senate Special Committee on Aging. When not admitted as an inpatient, the beneficiary must fork over money for co-payments as well as medications. And the drug costs have no out-of-pocket caps. Furthermore, if a beneficiary needs to go to a nursing home for rehabilitation care and has not been formally admitted as an inpatient, Medicare will not pay for this service. As an outpatient, s/ he would be considered ineligible for coverage as s/he has not met the three-day inpatient hospitalization rule. Behind what would seem a simple reality – a hospital stay – is a confusing arrangement that has
arisen as a budget cutting measure gone awry.
ORIGINAL INTENT
Observation was initially used as a way to give doctors time to do testing, such as X-rays or MRIs, or to get laboratory results. Now, it seems to be used as a cost-cutting measure. “It is...clear that Medicare policies... are driving the shift of patients into observation status,” said Dr. Ann Sheehy of the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health. “Any attempt to reform observation status must recognize how far observation has drifted from its original intent, largely due to auditing pressures.” Over the five years preceding 2011, there was a 69 percent growth in the number of observation visits. In that year, 1.6 million Medicare patients were considered under “observation” even if they were in the hospital longer than 48 hours. By 2012, the Inspector General of the Department of Health and Human Services noted there were more than 600,000 observation stays that lasted three nights or more. In a report issued earlier this
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year, the Medicare Payment Advisory Commission (MedPAC), noted that over a six-year period from 2006-2012, outpatient services increased 28.5 percent and inpatient ones decreased 12.6 percent. A prime example is the case of Harold (92) and Sylvia (83) Engler. Mr. Engler had hernia surgery five years ago. He was in the hospital for two-and-a-half days and considered an inpatient. When he had a second episode, this time for a double hernia, he again had surgery and was in the hospital for five days. Two days after his return home, he was hospitalized for a virus and was in the hospital another five days. When he returned home, still weak, he was sent to a nursing home for rehabilitation. But, Mr. Engler had never been officially admitted to the hospital as an inpatient; he was considered under “medical observation.” As such, Medicare would not pay for the six-week nursing home stay. This should have fallen under Medicare’s 100-day nursing home coverage, which is a three-day hospital stay previous to nursing home admission. But Medicare declined to pay. To release him from the nursing home, Mrs. Engler had to pay close to $8,000 or the bill would be turned over to a collection agency or a lien would be placed on their house. Mrs. Engler has obtained the services of a lawyer, but the only response from Medicare, according to the lawyer, is that the decision by the hospital to call his stay other than observation cannot be appealed. “I later found out,” said Mrs. Engler, “that the hospital had to pay back millions of dollars to Medicare because they called some patients inpatients instead of outpatients.” The situation is still unresolved. Here is where it gets even more confusing. Under a new Medicare rule, issued in 2013, hospital stays of “two midnights” will be paid; those of less will be considered outpatient cases. And although the rule will not be enforced until 2015, “hospitals are still required to use this as their standard,” said Marna Borgstrom, president
and CEO of the Yale-New Haven Health System. “A patient can stay overnight in the hospital, in the same room, get the same care, eat the same meals as inpatients – and yet under the two midnights policy still be considered an observation patient expected to pay 20 percent of the costs,” she noted. And, furthermore, “20 percent of every line item for every service, device and procedure quickly adds up.” The bottom line of hospitals is also being affected. “Hospitals are seeing dramatic reimbursement cuts...by denials of inpatient claims.” She is not the only one calling for Medicare’s rules to be clarified in regard to observation stays, and adds that “Congress should eliminate the three-day inpatient stay requirement” completely.
BILLS INTRODUCED
Several bills have been introduced into Congress to correct this situation. The Improving Access to Medicare Coverage act of 2013 (S.569 and H.R.1179) would count all observation stays toward the threeday inpatient nursing home requirement. The Creating Access to Rehabilitation for Every Senior (CARES) Act (H.R.3531) and the Fairness for Beneficiaries Act of 2013 (H.R.3144) would both eliminate the three-day requirement. Even the Long Term Care Commission has recommended that Medicare count time spent in observation in the hospital toward nursing home admission. Medicare is not unaware that observation status is difficult to understand. It acknowledges this in a document that notes it may be a burdensome cost to a beneficiary and advises that he or she check with the hospital to clarify whether they are an inpatient or outpatient. It’s a good idea. However, it only works if the patient or an advocate, such as family member, is aware of the issue and is in good enough health to ask the appropriate questions. For more information, visit the Senate website at aging.senate. gov.
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Senior Focus December, 2014/January, 2015
Gift-giving tips for grandparents Finding the perfect gift for your grandchildren can certainly make your spirits bright. However, buying gifts can be surprisingly complicated and sometimes involves emotions and conflict. Parents sometimes don’t want you to spend too much money on gifts for fear of “spoiling” the children; or some parents might feel that expensive gifts have expectations attached. If you’re in the dark about what to give, the hunt can sometimes be more of a job than a joy. To lend some method to the holiday madness Margaret Manning, founder of sixtyandme.com offers some basic guidelines to keep in mind when you set off for the store.
Talk with mom and dad
Before you spend money on gifts, talk with the parents about what they feel is a good gift, based on the child’s interests, abilities and play patterns. Some children might want a noisy, active toy while others might want a book, puzzle or board game. Find out what TV shows or hobbies your grandchildren are most passionate about these days. Interests can change quickly, and the “must have” toy of six months ago might no longer be at the top of the child’s wish list. Talking with the parents first is also a good way to demonstrate that you want your gift purchases to be supportive of their parenting choices and that you are not trying to be a distraction or add unnecessary clutter to the house.
Give age-appropriate gifts
It’s likely been awhile since you’ve had small children living with you in your house, so take time to research the gift and consider whether it’s safe and appro-
Say Yes....
priate for the child’s age. Most toys have clearly marked recommended age ranges on the package, but you can also read review guides to learn the best recommendations of toys for specific age ranges.
Consider gifts of experience
Instead of toys or expensive gadgets, think about giving your grandchildren an “experiencebased” gift – like tickets to a sporting event, a membership at the zoo or museum, or a subscription to a favorite magazine. Other types of “experiential” gifts might include sporting equipment, cooking utensils, or materials for arts and crafts (depending on what types of activities your grandkids love to do most). Sometimes these gifts can be simple and small – a new box of crayons from Grandma can brighten a younger child’s day immensely!
Give the gift of time
If you’re on a budget and are trying to make your retirement savings last longer, buying a lot of gifts for your grandchildren might not be a good financial move. Instead of overburdening yourself financially, look for opportunities to spend more time with your grandchildren. Take them to the park. Host them at your house for a special “weekend at Grandma’s.” Read to them, garden with them, cook
with them, sing with them, dance with them, watch them run and play and grow, and teach them about what you know and express your love for them along the way. The gift of your presence and your attention is one of the most lasting reminders that your grandchildren will have that they are loved and that they are part of a beautiful continuity of family life, reaching across the generations. Sixtyandme.com is an interesting website. Check it out.
7
Modest benefit increase Monthly Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits for nearly 64 million Americans will increase 1.7 percent in 2015. The 1.7 percent cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) will begin with benefits that more than 58 million Social Security beneficiaries receive in January 2015. Increased payments to more than 8 million SSI beneficiaries will begin on December 31, 2014. The amount deducted from Social Security benefits for the Medicare Part B premium will remain the same at $104.90. Similarly, the Part B deductible will also remain the same at $147.
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December, 2014/January, 2015 Senior Focus
8
When a loved one has dementia
Tips for managing holiday stress Plan in advance
Elder Info
Individuals who experience the most difficulty with the holiday season are those who have given little thought to the challenges they will encounter. Consider ahead of time what may be expected of you, both socially and emotionally. Discuss holiday celebrations with relatives and close friends in advance. Plan to maintain a regular routine while trying to provide a pleasant, meaningful and calm holiday event. Celebrate early in the day or have a noon meal rather than a late dinner.
Have a Question? We Have an Answer!
By Cynthia Nowowiejski
Senior Services of Snohomish County
Q
Our family is preparing for the upcoming holidays. My husband has experienced significant memory changes since the last time we were all together. He has recently been diagnosed with dementia. I am concerned about him and how to keep the “happy” in the holidays this year.
Families are gathering together to celebrate the holidays. For families coping with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia, the holidays can be bittersweet times, filled with stress and frustration. Festivities may agitate, confuse and overstimulate a person with memory loss. Meanwhile, caregivers can feel anxious, frustrated, and lonely – leading to stress and depression. Here are 10 holiday survival tips.
Take care of yourself (caregiver)
Remember, the holidays are opportunities to share time with people you love. Try to make these celebrations easy on yourself and the person with dementia so that you may concentrate on enjoying your time together. Set limits by telling family and friends that you intend to control stress this holiday season. Maintain a positive mental attitude.
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Ask for assistance for you and your loved one. Prepare to deal with post-holiday letdown. Arrange for family members or an in-home care provider to give you a break so you can enjoy an activity with a friend.
Prepare the person with dementia
Preparing your loved one for the upcoming holiday events can allow both of you to enjoy the warmth of the season. Talk about and show photos of family members and friends who will be visiting. Have a “quiet” room in case things get too hectic. Play familiar music and serve favorite traditional holiday foods. Schedule naps, especially if the person usually takes naps. Schedule visit times with family and friends.
Prepare family and friends
Preparing families and friends with an honest appraisal of the person’s condition can help avoid uncomfortable or harmful situations. Familiarize family members and friends with behaviors and condition changes. Remind family and friends the best way to communicate with a person with dementia.
Involve everyone
Involve everyone in holiday activities, including the person with dementia. Consider taking walks, frosting cookies, telling stories, doing chores together. To encourage conversation, place magazines, scrapbooks or photo albums in reach; play music to prompt dancing or other kinds of exercise. Encourage young family members to participate in simple and familiar activities with the person. A child could read a book or sing a song with your family member.
Communicate with success
person’s ability to communicate. These tips may help you understand each other. Be calm and supportive if the person has trouble communicating. Speak slowly with a relaxed tone. Avoid criticism. For example, when someone forgets a recent conversation, avoid saying, “Don’t you remember?” Address the person by name. Hi, Grandpa Bill and identify yourself, “I’m Scott”. Be patient, flexible and do not argue with the person with Alzheimer’s.
Smart gift giving
Encourage family and friends to give useful, practical gifts. Comfortable easy-to-remove clothing, tapes of favorite music, videos, and photo albums are good choices. Prepare a special food item to enjoy later (i.e. container of homemade soup for the freezer). Advise others not to give gifts such as tools or instruments, utensils, challenging board games, complicated electronic equipment, or pets. If possible, involve the person (with dementia) in giving gifts. For example, buy the gift and allow the person to wrap it. Enlist help of family members with shopping or eliminate gift giving this year.
Safe environment in the home
Persons with dementia may experience changes in judgment. This behavior may lead to confusion, frustration or wandering. Consider these tips to reduce the risk of injury and situations that could be confusing to someone with dementia. Assign a “buddy” to watch out for the person to ensure their comfort. Arrange ample space for walking side-by-side, for wheelchairs, and walkers. Keep walking areas clear. Consider seating options so the person with Alzheimer’s can best focus on conversation and be least distracted. Don’t serve alcohol, which may lead to inappropriate behav-
Alzheimer’s can diminish a
CONNECT WITH OTHERS STAY ACTIVE ENJOY LIFE The YMCA of Snohomish County offers a variety of programs and activities specifically for older adults. From aerobics to yoga, water exercise or special trips, you are sure to find many enjoyable opportunities to connect with others. There’s a Y near you: Everett Marysville Mill Creek Monroe Mukilteo
425 258 9211 360 653 9622 425 337 0123 360 805 1879 425 493 9622
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CONTINUED ON PAGE 9
Senior Focus December, 2014/January, 2015
Festive season triggers diabetes dilemma By Cecil Scaglione In preparing for the annual holiday season, much of the preparation and procurement of festive food is dedicated to sweets: cookies, cakes, candies and desserts. And while you’re sweltering in the kitchen or stumbling through the shopping mall, you might be wondering how to accommodate your friends or family members who are diabetics. Or maybe you’re concerned about yourself. First of all, while it’s not universally recognized, some people with diabetes can sample sweets
if they exercise and have a healthy diet. There are three main types of diabetes: type 1, type 2, and gestational. More than eight percent – some 26 million people – in this country suffer from one of these. According to the American Diabetes Assn. (ADA), individuals with type 1 do not produce insulin, the hormone needed to convert sugars and starches into life-supporting energy, because their immune system attacks the insulin-producing cells of the pancreas. Type 2 victims develop insulin
HOLIDAY TIPS
bers and a list of medications.
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 8
The following suggestions may ensure a positive traveling experience: Never leave the person alone. Use familiar modes of transportation and avoid peak travel times. Keep plans simple and maintain daily routines as much as possible. Allow extra time to avoid the stress of rushing. Arrange for services, such as wheelchairs, ahead of time.
ior or interactions with medications. Accommodate changes in vision. Place contrasting-color rugs in front of doors or steps. Avoid dark-colored rugs that may appear to be “holes.” Limit access to places where injuries occur, such as a kitchen or stairwell. Create even level of lighting; avoid blinking lights. Keep decorations simple; avoid using candy and other edibles as well as artificial fruits/vegetables as decorations. Supervise in taking medicine. Keep emergency phone num-
Travel wisely
Reliable sources of support
Families can call the Alzheimer’s Association (Seattle office) at 206-363-5500 or the 24-hour, sev-
Come for the view, stay for the friendships
resistance because their bodies do not use it properly and the pancreas loses the battle to produce enough insulin to keep blood-glucose levels normal. The third type – gestational – affects pregnant women. These cases occur when the pancreas labors unsuccessfully to produce sufficient insulin to maintain healthy blood-glucose levels so the baby’s pancreas kicks in to help. This provides the infant with more energy than needed to grow so it’s stored as fat. The diabetic’s war cry is: Carbohydrates are the Enemy. That means no bread, no pasta, no cheese, no rice, no cereals – at least not in large quantities. en-days-a-week Helpline at 800272-3900 to get answers about dementia and learn ways to assist persons with dementia and caregivers. The Helpline is open on holidays. If you need additional assistance, contact Senior Services, Aging and Disability Resources, at 425-513-1900 or 800-422-2024 – Alzheimer’s Association Florida Gulf Coast Chapter. The Aging and Disabilities Resource program is the gateway to access services for older adults and people with disabilities in Snohomish County. To speak with an ADR Specialist who will listen to your concerns, answer questions and explore options, phone 425-513-1900 or 800-422-2024.
9
While diabetes is not contagious – you don’t catch it from anyone else – it can be deadly if not monitored and managed. The ADA reports it causes more deaths each year than breast cancer and AIDS combined. It is a widespread belief that obesity is a road to diabetes. While being overweight is a factor, other contributors are age and family history. The consensus among medical experts is that a regular exercise plan and a healthy well-balanced diet are to first step to take to prevent or manage diabetes. For more information, visit the ADA website at diabetes.org – Mature Life Features©
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Thursday, April 16, 2015 | 7:30 pm $34, $29 & $24, $15 Youth/Student A fresh and funny salute to Americana starring Pat Hazell (Seinfeld), The Wonder Bread Years is a fast-paced, hilarious production that gracefully walks the line between standup and theater.
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Under the guidance of a nurse and social worker, design an individual wellness plan and have your progress measured over six months. A wonderful way to take control of your health. Call for an appt. or drop in any weekday, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Funded by the Verdant Health Commission.
Wednesday, May 20, 2015 | 7:30 pm $34, $29 & $24, $15 Youth/Student Dan Hicks is an American singer-songwriter who combines cowboy folk, jazz, country, swing, bluegrass, pop, and gypsy music in his sound.
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Seniors (62+) and Military (with ID) save 10% on ticket prices for ECA Presented events. We also offer group discounts!* Groups 10–19: 10%
Groups 20–29: 15%
Groups 30+: 20%
For more information about group reservations to ECA Presented events, contact Gillian Jones at gillian@ec4arts.org or 425.275.9483. * All group tickets must be purchased at one time, by one person, using a single payment method. There is a $12 service charge per order, regardless of the number of tickets purchased. Group seating is subject to seating availability; every effort will be made to seat all members of your group together.
10 December, 2014/January, 2015 Senior Focus
The empty chair at the holiday table
Helpful ways to interact with someone grieving loss of loved one WACO, Texas – For many, this Christmas will be the first holiday without a special loved one. The loss of a family member or a friend brings obvious grief. And for those who have the opportunity to interact with a bereaved person, there are often questions: What do I do? What do I say? There are ways that are more helpful and ways that are less helpful to approach a grieving person, said grief expert Helen Harris, Ed.D., assistant professor in Baylor University’s School of Social Work. “There are so many things that folks say that are not helpful, mostly when we tell people what to do, what to believe and how not to feel,” Harris said. “Examples are: ‘God needed another angel’ or ‘At least you had him for x-amount Aging and Disability Resources Answers Questions – Explores Options
425.513.1900
of years’ or ‘You shouldn’t feel sad. He isn’t suffering anymore.’ Other helpful ways to interact with a grieving person include: Listen more than talk. “It is OK to say, ‘I don’t know what to say but I want you to know that I care,’” Harris said. “It is a better choice than saying nothing, or saying things that judge and marginalize.” Acknowledge the loss and express your caring. Be available; be present to say a word about the special life that is gone. Ask if there is a holiday-related task you can help with. Will they be alone for the holidays? Invite them over or take a meal to their home if they are not ready to get out and be around others. Offer to help with Christmas shopping or wrapping. Find a way to include the lost loved one in the holidays. “I recommend families find a way to include the lost loved one
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in the holidays.” Light a candle on the mantel to burn through the day as a symbol of his continued presence, make an ornament with her name and place it on the tree, talk about their roles and be intentional about who will assume those roles now of carving the turkey, etc., and use at least one of their favorite recipes for a holiday dish. Take time to tell stories and look through old photos. But don’t push it. “If folks find it too painful, there should be no pressure to do it,” Harris said. “There will be other holidays, other times and other gatherings.” Ask what helps and be open to what doesn’t. “I ask the bereaved person to tell me what the experience is like for them and I ask what helps or doesn’t help them.” Avoid “helpful” actions that are actually hurtful. “When you stay away, pretend it didn’t happen, or walk the other way in a store so you don’t have to say anything – those things hurt,” Harris said. Understand that there’s no set time frame for someone who suffers a loss to be “over it” or “move on.” Harris said adjustment to loss is a long process and tends to get worse before it gets better. Those
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Helen Harris served as bereavement coordinator and the first director of Hillcrest Community Hospice in Waco, Texas. She joined the Baylor social work faculty in 1997 but continues her work as a hospice volunteer and provides volunteer training for several Central Texas hospice programs.
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not closely connected to the loss will move on with their busy lives while the person who has lost a spouse or child or parent will experience fresh loss over and over again for the first year while facing the first birthday, anniversary, Christmas, vacation, etc. without the person with whom they had always shared those moments. “There is a time when we manage our grief more than it manages us, and a time when the healing becomes strength, like a healed broken bone is stronger at the point of healing than the bone around it. But we are always changed, different because of both the life and the death of the person we loved and lost,” Harris said. “Continuing to miss our loved ones, and more importantly, being aware at times of how much we wish they were present, is, I believe, a life-long experience – and does not mean we have failed to move on.”
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Senior Focus December, 2014/January, 2015
Burial, memorial benefits available to veterans Dear …
Savvy Senior By Jim Miller
Q
Does the Veterans Administration provide any special funeral services or benefits to old veterans? My father is a 90-year-old WWII veteran with late stage Alzheimer’s, so I’m looking into funeral options and would like to know what the VA may provide. Planning Ahead Dear Planning,
Yes, the Veterans Administration offers a number of burial and memorial benefits to veterans if their discharge from the military was under conditions other than dishonorable – which will need to be verified. To do this, you’ll need a copy of your dad’s DD Form 214 “Certificate of Release or Discharge from Active Duty,” which you can request online at archives. gov/veterans. Here’s a rundown of benefits that are available to veterans that die a non-service related death. National & state cemetery benefits If your dad is eligible and wants to be buried in one of the 131 national or 90 state VA cemeteries, the VA benefits provided at no cost to the family include a gravesite; opening and closing of the grave; perpetual gravesite care; a government headstone or marker; a United States burial flag that can be used to drape the casket or accompany the urn (after the funeral service, the flag is given to the next-of-kin as a keepsake); and a Presidential memorial certificate, which is an engraved paper certificate signed by the current President expressing the country’s grateful recognition of the veteran’s service. (For a list of cemetery locations visit cem. va.gov; click on Locations tab). National cemetery burial benefits are also available to spouses and dependents of veterans. If your dad is cremated, his remains will be buried or inurned in the same manner as casketed remains. Funeral or cremation arrangements and costs are not, however, taken care of by the VA. Private cemetery benefits If your dad is going to be buried in a private cemetery, the benefits available include a free government headstone or marker, or a medallion that can be affixed to an existing privately purchased headstone or marker; a burial flag; and a Presidential memorial certificate. Funeral or cremation arrangements and costs are again the responsibility of the family, and there are no benefits offered to spouses and dependents that are
buried in private cemeteries. Military funeral honors Another popular benefit available to all eligible veterans buried in either a national or private cemetery is a military funeral honors ceremony. This includes folding and presenting the U.S. burial flag to the veteran’s survivors and the playing of Taps, performed by two or more uniformed military members. The funeral provider you choose will be able to assist you with all VA burial requests. Depending on what you want, certain forms may need to be completed which are always better to be done in advance. For a complete rundown of burial and memorial benefits, eligibility details and required forms, visit cem.va.gov or call 800-827-1000. Burial allowances In addition to the many burial benefits, some veterans may also qualify for a $734 burial and funeral expense allowance (if hospitalized by VA at time of death), or $300 (if not hospitalized by VA at time of death), and a $734 plotinterment allowance to those who choose to be buried in a private cemetery. To find out if your dad is eligible, see cem.va.gov and select the Burials & Memorials tab. To apply for burial allowances, you’ll need to fill out VA Form 21530 Application for Burial Benefits. You need to attach a copy of your dad’s discharge document (DD 214 or equivalent), death certificate, funeral and burial bills. They should show that you have paid them in full. You may download the form at va.gov/vaforms.
Thumb texting With computers came a jump in the reported cases of carpal tunnel syndrome, which affects wrist tendons. Now, with smart phones, comes “texting thumb.” This is caused by repetitive action that can irritate the tendon and cause it to swell painfully on either side of the thumb. The constant use, and overuse, of your thumb while texting messages
11
on your phone, or playing games or anything else calling for tapping on the screen, can irritate and inflame the tendon. Medical experts recommend you change your grasp on the phone and the position of your hand and wrist if you experience any ache or pain in our wrist when texting or thumbing you phone. They also suggest you place the phone on a desk or table to operate it. If the pain doesn’t go away after resting, see your doctor. – MLF
We’re with you every step of the way… Providing seniors and their families housing and care guidance
Determining the best housing and care options for seniors looking for more community or who are no longer safe at home can be overwhelming. Our complimentary service offers a hand-in-hand approach to help navigate this transition. Call or email for information… Frank Simons 206-228-1678 ~ fsimons@seniorcareconsult.com Juli Simons 425-876-2053 ~ jsimons@seniorcareconsult.com
Send your questions to: Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070, or visit SavvySenior.org. Jim Miller is author of The Savvy Senior book.
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12 December, 2014/January, 2015 Senior Focus
Foot health… don’t tiptoe around its importance “Swept off his feet.” “Cold feet.” “Both feet on the ground.” “Put your best foot forward.” Sometime in your life, you have probably heard or even said one or more of these catchphrases. But have you ever thought seriously about your feet and their importance in day-to-day living? Years of wear and tear can be hard on them. So can disease, poor circulation, poorly trimmed toenails, and wearing shoes that don’t fit. Foot problems are sometimes the first sign of more serious medical conditions including arthritis, diabetes and nerve or circulatory disorders. It is very important to check with your doctor if you develop a sore on your foot that does not heal. It is especially important if you have diabetes or circulation problems. The National Institute of Health offers the following advice for maintaining healthy feet.
foot massage and a warm foot bath also help with circulation.
Make sure the shoes fit
Comfortable shoes that fit well can prevent many foot problems. Here are some tips for making sure your shoes fit: Shoe size may change as you age so always have your feet measured before buying shoes. The best time to measure your feet is at the end of the day when your feet are largest. Most people have one foot that is larger than the other. Make sure your shoes fit your larger foot. Don’t buy shoes without trying them on. Shoe sizes can vary depending on the kind, make and style. For example, the size you wear for sneakers may not be the same size you need for dress shoes. Walk in the shoes to make sure they feel right. The heel of the shoe should not slide up and down when you walk. Also make sure there is about one-half inch between your toe and the end of the shoe. Choose a shoe that is shaped like your foot. Styles with high heels or pointed toes can hurt your feet. Make sure the ball of your foot fits comfortably into the widest part of the shoe. The upper part of the shoes should be made of a soft, flexible material. And, don’t buy shoes that feel too tight and hope they will stretch.
Step in the right direction
Practice good foot care. Check your feet often and look for cuts, blisters and ingrown toenails. People with diabetes should check their feet every day. Use a mirror to look at the bottoms of your feet. To help with circulation, elevate your feet when you sit down. If you are sitting for a long time, stand up and move around every now and then. If you cross your legs, reverse or uncross them often. Stretching, walking, a gentle
Soles should give solid footing and not slip. Thick soles cushion your feet when walking on hard surfaces. Low-heeled shoes are more comfortable, safer, and less damaging than high-heeled shoes.
Common foot problems
Fungal infections, such as athlete’s foot, happen because our feet are in shoes most of the time. Shoes are warm, dark and moist – the perfect place for fungus to grow. A fungus can cause dry skin, redness, blisters, itching and peeling and can be difficult to cure. Over-the-counter anti-fungal powders or creams may help, however if you do not see any improvement within three week, talk to your doctor. To prevent infections: Keep your feet clean and dry. Be sure to dry the area between your toes. Change your shoes and socks often to help keep your feet dry. Try dusting your feet every day with talc-free foot powder. Dry skin can cause itching and burning feet. Use a mild soap and a cream or lotion on your legs and feet every day. Be careful about adding bath oil to bath water since it can make your feet and the bathtub very slippery. Corns and calluses are caused by pressure when the bony parts of your feet rub against your shoes. Corns usually appear on the tops or sides of toes while calluses form
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on the soles of feet. Wearing shoes that fit well or using non-medicated pads may help. While bathing, gently rub the corn or callus with a washcloth or pumice stone to help reduce the size. To avoid infection, do not try to shave off the corn or callus. Warts are skin growths caused by viruses. They may be painful and can spread if not treated. Some over-the-counter products may help to get rid of them. Bunions are swollen and tender joints that can develop at the base of your big toes. Bunions can also be caused by shoes that are too small or have pointed toes. If a bunion is not too painful, wearing shoes cut wide at the toes and middle part of the foot (instep) or shoe inserts may help. Taping or padding the bunion may bring relief. Some over-the-counter pain medicine may reduce swelling and lessen pain. However, sometimes surgery is needed to relieve the pressure and repair the toe joint. Ingrown toenails are caused by a piece of the nail piercing the skin. This can happen if you don’t cut your toenails straight across so the corner of the nail can be seen above the skin. Use clippers made to cut toenails. Ingrown toenails are very common in the large toes. Neuromas are the result of a build-up of tissue around an inflamed nerve in the foot. They may cause tingling, numbness, or pain in the ball of your foot and toes. Shoes that are too narrow or have high heels can make the problem worse. Sometimes, inserts put in your shoes can help. Hammertoe is caused by a shortening of the tendons that control toe movements. The toe joint grows and pulls the toe back. Over time, the joint gets bigger and stiffens as it rubs against shoes. More space in the shoe or stocking can help. In very serious cases, surgery may be needed. Spurs are bony bumps that grow on bones of your feet. They are caused by stress on the feet. Standing for long periods of time, wearing badly-fitting shoes, or being overweight can make spurs worse. Treatments for spurs include foot supports, heel pads, and heel cups. Sometimes surgery is needed. Swollen feet may happen when you have been standing for a long time. If your feet and ankles stay swollen, it may be a sign of more serious health problems.
Be alert
Both diabetes and peripheral artery disease can cause poor blood flow to the feet which can cause scrapes or bruises to become infected more easily. This makes good foot care very important. Good foot care and regular foot checks are an important part of your health care. Information provided by nihsenior health.gov, a senior-friendly website from the National Institute on Aging and the National Library of Medicine.
Senior Focus December, 2014/January, 2015
13
Heart-ing family caregivers across Washington By Mike Tucker
AARP State President
“One might think that the toughest part of caregiving would revolve around shopping, cooking, cleaning and other household duties, interspersed with organizing medications, but it’s not,” says Stuart. “The greatest challenge is keeping a positive attitude, along with faith and hope, not only for the patient but also for myself as caregiver,” he says. Stuart is one of more than 1.25 million Washingtonians who perform a great labor of love: caring for aging parents, spouses, and other loved ones so they can remain in their homes. These family caregivers are sometimes on duty 24-hours-a-day, seven-daysa-week and often they can’t even take a break. But they wouldn’t have it any other way. That’s why we honored these unsung heroes for their labor of love during November which was National Family Caregivers Month. To further honor these family caregivers, AARP has launched a new initiative to spotlight their stories called “I Heart Caregivers.” Stuart is one of the many Washingtonians sharing their stories. “Years ago I was taught, ‘attitude is everything,’” says Stuart. “This is so vital with illnesses. It is fortunate that both my wife and I are positive people. It really helps on those occasions when she is down, I am up, and vice versa.” It’s a fact: the vast majority of older adults want to live independently, at home, as they age. And family caregivers are the ones who provide the bulk of assistance to make this goal a reality for many. They help with bathing and dressing, meal preparation, managing finances, transportation, grocery shopping, and much more. That’s why AARP continues to advocate for increased support for caregivers through programs like the Family Caregiver Support Program – a service available to unpaid caregivers of adults needing care and living in Washington State. There are Family Caregiver Support Program offices throughout the state staffed with caring and knowledgeable people who can help you: Find local resources/services. Find caregiver support groups and counseling. Get training on specific care-
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giving topics. Explore options if you need a break. Talk through specific issues you are having and offer practical information and caregiving suggestions. You might say the program is small but mighty. While valuable support is provided, limited funding means the program only reaches one percent of those who could make use of its counseling and support groups, training, and respite care. The deep budget hole expected in the upcoming state legislative session means the program will continue to struggle for finances. Today, the average family caregiver is a 49-year-old female, who takes care of a 77-year-old woman – usually her mother. She provides 20 hours a week of assistance to her loved one, although she may be on call around-the-clock. She also works. In Washington, family caregivers provide unpaid care valued at an estimated $10.6 billion annually. Their contribution runs even deeper. By helping their older loved ones remain at home – and out of costly nursing homes, usually paid for by Medicaid – family caregivers are, in essence, saving the state money. But, family caregivers need more support (help at home,
workplace protections, training and more) so they have the strength and energy to carry on. Keep in mind: If you’re not a caregiver now, you were likely one in the past or you will likely be one in the future. Let’s all take a moment to recognize our fellow family caregivers. Share your story at aarp. org/iheartcaregivers.
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14 December, 2014/January, 2015 Senior Focus
Whale of a good time in Alaska Get Aways Adventures in Travel
By Fyllis Hockman The cry went out. “Orcas on right, 3 o’clock!” We were a mile and a half out. I tried desperately to spot a spout or tail or fin. It was the closest I’d ever come to a whale up to now, so I could be patient. Looking around at my fellow passengers aboard the Orca Enterprises, a 3-1/2 hour whalewatching boat out of Juneau, Alaska, I realized that the idea of seeing a fin or part of the flank was almost as exciting as viewing the actual whale. Tourists spot an unidentifiable part, but that doesn’t dim their enthusiasm. They still shout out, “Wow, did you see that? It’s huge!” Like paparazzi chasing a celebrity, their cameras and binoculars consistently point at where the whale just was in hopes of catching it when it reappears. Then one surfaces enough to actually confirm you’ve seen a whale, and you think, “Yes, now that’s what I’m talking about.” Captain Larry, whose tales were almost as long as the beard extending almost to his navel, entertained us with seafaring trivia while naturalist and whale-re-
Whale breeches in full view of tour boat in the waters off Juneau, Alaska. Victor Block photo
searcher Jack astounded us with whale-watching lore. We learned the orca, or killer whale, is actually the world’s biggest dolphin. They are the social butterflies of the whale world and hang out together in family pods. The much larger, more independent Humpback whales tend to travel alone or in looseknit groups. Unlike all their other ocean-dwelling neighbors, they don’t worry much about predators. I was beginning to feel a little frustration at the orca’s evasive nature. After all, this was called a whale-watching tour, not a whaleglimpsing one. Thank goodness
for the humpbacks. Weighing in at the size of a large boat – as much as 50 feet long and tipping the scales at 40 tons – these babies can put on quite a show. All we saw at first was a sliver of black. Then a spiral of spray caught everyone’s attention. With experience, we eager onlookers recognized this as a prelude to an impressive denouement: the humpback’s huge tail kicked up, wavered teasingly, and then slid sleekly out of sight. All the while, pandemonium broke out on deck. The fact that this act occurred at about eightminute intervals was a bonus. It also made the humpback a lot more predictable than the orca and, thus, much easier to see and cheer about. Jack explained that many of the whales that visit Alaska every year hail from Maui where they spend the winter. Smart whales. Also smart Jack, who winters there as well, studying the same whales in both habitats. He identified the most active humpback as Flame, an old friend of his from Maui, and the mother of four baby whales. We didn’t witness any “bubble netting” but I understand it is a frequent feature of many whalewatching tours. This is a feeding technique used by humpbacks who gather together and blow air
through their air-holes to herd schools of small fish into a tight ball through which the whales then plunge. It’s reported to be a feat, and feast, to watch. Another spectacular whalewatching experience in Alaska is the annual gray-whale migration. Every year, some 20,000 gray whales make their way from their winter hideaways to the cold-water feeding grounds of the Bering Sea. From the end of March until early May, these giant visitors can be easily observed from a variety of whale-watching cruises, large and small. But whales were not the sole attraction on this expedition. Bald eagles in Alaska are as plentiful as pigeons in New York but that doesn’t diminish their majesty in flight. Stellar sea lions, the largest of the seal populace, can be seen lounging on the rocks along the shoreline, bleating and bellowing so loud as to drown out the boat’s noisy motor. Then there are the harbor seals, several dozen of which were swimming along the shore, their heads bobbing in the water like little brown, slippery Jacks in the Box. They were a lot less enamored of the whales than we were as the orcas are their most common predator. And so story and nature come full-circle: both the harbor seals and I were watching the whales closely, but for very different reasons. For information, visit alaska whalewatching.com. – Mature Life Features©
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Senior Focus December, 2014/January, 2015
Grizzly bear and cubs stop for a picture in Alaska’s Denali National Park. Denali National Park photo
Wildlife, wild stories in Alaska’s Denali National Park Get Aways Adventures in Travel
By Fyllis Hockman Denali National Park, Alaska – Forty pairs of eyes scan the countryside searching for movement. With binoculars and cameras at the ready, we hoped for a bear or a moose, or even some Dall sheep high up the mountain. No one aboard the Tundra Wilderness Tour bus maintained a semblance of composure. We clambered like kids from one side to the other, eager to be the first to announce the next sighting. Denali National Park is larger than Massachusetts. It is watched over by Mount McKinley, the tallest mountain in North America reaching up more than 20,000 feet. Locals call it Mount Denali – “The High One.” On an African safari, the goal is to spot the Big Five: lion, leopard, rhino, elephant, and Cape buffalo. The concept is the same here, just the names are different: moose, bear, wolf, caribou, and Dall sheep. When we stopped to see a rabbit (our guide called it a Snowshoe Hare) I thought, “This is not a good sign.” In truth, you can’t always decipher what you see. Snow-fills are mistaken for sheep, large boulders for bears. Hopes rise and are dashed, and the guide takes refuge in another Snowshoe Hare. But, over the long haul, you’re not likely to be disappointed. Between sightings, our driver/guide John Miller kept up a constant patter covering vegetation, history, animal lore, Alaskan peccadilloes, personal experiences and other tantalizing tidbits for almost seven hours. The running commentary accompanied John’s driving along narrow, winding roads clutching the mountainside while he searched rapidly from right and left for any movement that might indicate animal activity. We did get to see numerous Dall sheep, the occasional moose, caribou (AKA reindeer), the ubiquitous Snowshoe hares, and other native wildlife. Should the animals play hard to get, just lift-
ing your eyes to the snow-capped mountains in the distance is enough to keep you enthralled until the next creature reveals itself. On the off-chance you’re sitting at the back of the bus and miss the mama moose and her calf, or the Dall sheep straddling a steep slope, they will magically appear on the television screens above the seats in the bus. Close-up images from the driver’s video camera are viewed on the drop-down screens. I discovered earlier in the trip that we were there too early in the year (June instead of July) for the running of the salmon and, therefore, too early for the bears to gather around the streams to snatch those spawning salmon as they fly into their mouths. John kept assuring us we would see grizzlies. By hour number six, when we’d had only a glimpse of brown off in the distance, he finally – guiltily, sorrowfully, and very apologetically – acknowledged that maybe we wouldn’t get to see the bears on this trip. Suddenly waves of wows traveled along the bus as a momma and her two cubs came into view. “Hallelujah,” cried one excited passenger. John admitted he was getting quite nervous. He had not seen a bear only 20 times in 18 seasons. This trio was far away and they clearly weren’t catching any fish, but I did feel some sense of vindication. At the end of the trip, John played back the video (which, not surprisingly, was for sale) that captured the highlights of our bus trip from hare to bear – the many Dall sheep, mama moose with twins, caribou, golden eagle, ground squirrels, ptarmigans (the state bird) and, of course, the bears. We missed Alaska’s Big Five by one wolf. Denali was only one stop on the Gray Line Escorted Alaska Explorer Tour. There were also glaciers and mountains, gold-mining history, native cultures, whalewatching tours, frontier towns, and the backcountry among a myriad of experiences in America’s last frontier. For more information, visit graylinealaska.com or call 888425-1737. – Mature Life Features©
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16 December, 2014/January, 2015 Senior Focus
Colorful catalogues bring thoughts of spring Perspective on the Past By Dr. David A. Cameron When the long darkness of midwinter settles in around us, it is time to brighten our day by diving into the colorful world promised by the pages of the new seed and nursery catalogues. Perfectly formed examples of geraniums, monstrous pumpkins, and disease-resistant (they say) varieties of mouth-watering tomatoes entice us into sending away for the new introductions and some old favorites. In recent times this has become a luxury rather than a necessity. Few of us raise gardens large enough to feed ourselves or a family, and often our efforts are centered on containers, window pots, and a selection of relatively carefree houseplants. In “the olden days” a few years ago such was not the case. The family garden was vital then. Fresh and stored vegetables were required for a healthful diet; canning of fruit, pickles, vegetables, and meats was a regular part of household routine; and fresh flowers were often a woman’s only
tangible tie with a family left back home or in a distant “old country,” as we called it. When settlers came here from Europe, Asia and elsewhere in North America they frequently brought along favorite varieties of flowers, vegetables, berries and fruit trees, often as seed or cuttings. As a result, farms and orchards quickly resembled those found elsewhere, and native plants often were ignored or replaced. Potatoes, for example, eliminated tiger lily and camas roots among the native peoples, as well as serving the immigrants. SaukSuiattle tradition has it that their tribal members obtained spuds from the Yakama tribe and began to plant them here in the early 1840s. This state dominates the nation in apple production. These also are imports, the first coming as seed brought by one E. Simpson to the Hudson’s Bay Company Fort Vancouver and planted there in 1826. One of those trees still is alive and bearing fruit. The second planting was by Red Wolf of the Nez Perce tribe in Asotin County in 1837. He utilized stock given him by the missionary Henry Spalding, the associate of Marcus and Narcissa Whitman.
It is interesting to go back and look at some of those early varieties which found their ways into our backyards and farms. For apples, the first freight car load shipped from Wenatchee in 1901 included Belleflowers, Baldwins, Winesaps, Rhode Island Greenings, Spitzenbergs, Gloria Mundis, Rambos, Pippins, Grimes Goldens, and 20 boxes of Winter Nellis pears. David Cameron holds Yin Yang or Calypso dried bush These were all va- beans (they go by both names), while to the upper rieties that had flour- left are the much larger and reddish Scarlet Runner ished “back East,” but beans. photo by Louise Lindgren eventually would be replaced by those more suited to We have an unknown variety of a the climate and volcanic soils of large green apple from trees over Eastern Washington valleys. a century old planted by the Bedal Some of our local early plant- family on their homestead which ings included those Greenings, probably arrived this way. as well as Gravensteins, Kings, Most of the old varieties had and Yellow Transparents. Gra- problems with our climate after vensteins originated in Germany, apple scab developed, along with while the Transparents are Rus- anthracnose and other fungal sian. Hudson’s Bay Co. traders in diseases. As a result, you may be British Columbia also introduced hard pressed to find them except varieties as trade goods with the in specialty heirloom catalogues. When asked what he would do Indian peoples. Some of these made their way if he were told the world would up the Skagit River system and end tomorrow, Martin Luther into eastern Snohomish County. CONTINUED ON PAGE 17
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Senior Focus December, 2014/January, 2015
Questionnaire helps determine lifestyle needs, wants The National Aging in Place Council (NAIPC) has issued a document to help people thinking about retiring (as well as current retirees) determine how they want to live as they age. The document, “Act III: Your Plan for Aging in Place,” allows you to answer a set of questions about each critical area of your life, from the home you want to live in, to your health status, finances, transportation needs, and community involvement. This can
help determine the lifestyle you want in later years. The document can be downloadeded at ageinplace.org. It is quiet extensive and will take about an hour to complete. Once completed, you can then go online and complete a short survey which highlights your findings and send it to the national NAIPC or local chapter for recommendations on what services are available in your area. “In addition to simply remain-
ing at home, you need the services that provide a good, safe, secure life in that home,” said Marty Bell, Director of the NAIPC. “Historically, seniors do not take action until they have a problem,” said Alissa Boroff of the NAIPC Minneapolis-St. Paul Chapter. “This permits them to have prepared solutions for such problems as downsizing their home, paying for a healthcare emergency, or facing that they are no longer safe when driving.” –MLF
CATALOGUES
spine cucumber, Yellow Globe Danvers onion, Palo Alto parsnip, Alaska peas, Crimson Giant radish, Japanese radish, Snowball turnip, Danvers half long carrot (for the horses), Yellow Aberdeen turnip, Early Rose potatoes. Also on the list were roots for asparagus, horseradish, and rhubarb, plants for Downing gooseberry, red cherry currants, white grape, Mammoth blackberries, Cuthbert red raspberries, and loganberry, along with Johnson’s early strawberry plants. Roses also were planted at Silverton: Le France, Caroline Testont, Coquette De Lyon, American Beauty and Frandisca Kruger. Given the 90-plus inches of annual precipitation in the upper Stilly valley and the short growing season, somehow I have my doubts about the success of the roses and grapes. Perhaps the young foresters, too, were mesmerized by the catalogues! Fortunately there are people who make it their concern to keep alive older varieties of plants and animals in this swiftly changing world of hybridization, standardization, and genetic engineering. You still can have Plymouth Rock chickens, Dexter and Scottish Highland cattle, Connecticut field pumpkins, and Brandywine tomatoes – one strain advertised as the tastiest ever. I can testify to all but the cattle, never having had
the acreage for those. If you would like to add to your garden or containers this year, a good place to find older lines of plants is with the Seed Savers Exchange of Decorah, Iowa. They have been very concerned with the loss of genetic material from plants as they become ever more restricted, and they offer a system whereby people from all over can share what they grow. The U.S. government also maintains a germ plasm bank, but it is chronically underfunded. People tend to forget how quickly a new variety of disease can spread and require immediate breeding of resistant new strains, as happened with corn in the 1980s. Besides that, which rings truer, the artificial perfection of a Burpee professionally photographed hybrid marigold or this candid statement from Seed Saver member Mary Schultz from Monroe? “Second year in a row of daily rain, January to end of July. Weather, human marauders and rain damage cut seed crops in half, but there’s always next year.” Spoken like a true Snohomish County gardener!
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 16
replied, “Plant a tree and take a wife!” Why not make the first an apple and the second a very carefully selected peach? Old varieties of vegetables also are rapidly disappearing as corporations release new hybrids and seek to make their patented seeds sterile so that they cannot be saved. Look for open pollinated ones if you want to save your own for next year. For example, we save kale and scarlet runner beans. And, we share. Kale from our seeds now grows in a friend’s garden up in Darrington. We also save the beautifully marked “Yin Yang” bush beans. They sport a black and white symbol design that looks lovely in soup. Finding out what people actually grew locally can be difficult, but some years ago I came across a seed order to the Charles H. Lilly Company of Seattle (now Portland) dated April 27, 1910. It was for the Silverton tree nursery operated by the U.S. Forest Service. The rangers raised food for their isolated station to feed not only their work crews, but also their livestock. Here are the varieties they selected: Golden Jersey wax beans, Crimean globe beet, Glory cabbage, Hanson lettuce, white
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17
Dept. of Veterans Affairs
Telehealth service helps monitor chronic conditions For veterans there is a more convenient way to remain at home rather then having to enter a nursing home. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers telehealth services to monitor chronic illnesses such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), diabetes, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) via a device provided by the VA. The telehealth device is connected via telephone directly to a VA hospital and allows the doctor or nurse to modify or change a medication or add other treatments if necessary. Training on how to use the device is provided either in the home or a local clinic. The VA also has a TeleAudiology program for veterans with hearing difficulties. From only about 1,000 participants in this program in 2011, it has grown to more than 10,000 in 2014. In 2014, close to 700,000 veterans chose telehealth services. “We have to adapt to meet veterans whatever their needs are,” said VA Secretary Robert A. McDonald. “Telehealth is one of those areas we have identified for growth.” For more information, contact your local VA office or the website telehealth.va.gov. – MLF The Opportunity Shoppe, Senior Services estate, vintage and thrift store is open for business. Plan to stop and shop, 6915 Evergreen Way, Everett. Donations of gently-used clothing, household items, furniture, etc. are welcome. To donate call the store at 425-740-3797.
18 December, 2014/January, 2015 Senior Focus
Be Surprised!
Aging Gracefully…
Electronically challenged By Eda Suzanne
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I was one of the last of my peers to buy a Smartphone. When I posted the news of my purchase on Facebook almost two years ago, my Atlanta son who never comments on my stream but monitors my posts for my infamous spelling errors, wrote, “Return it IMMEDIATELY.” Those friends who didn’t know of my total lack of fine motor and electronic skills as he did, objected. One wrote, “I’m ten years older than your mom, and if I can learn how to use it, so can she.” Unlike them, my son also knew I didn’t read directions that showed anything more than the location of the on/off switch. Almost two years later, I will admit I’ve only mastered a few features, so my son and friends were both partially correct. I can take pictures – at times – and post them on Facebook, a socially acceptable way to brag because here friends can ignore the post if they choose or hit “like” if they truly care. It took almost one year to learn how to enter phone numbers, but I still can’t delete old ones even though I have been shown twice. I’ve learned how to text, but only to individuals, but I can send one email to multiple people. I still have yet to activate the phone’s voice and probably never will. If the computer that types my dictated text or email can’t understand me, I’m not sure it is worthwhile to turn on the voice feature. This morning when composing an email, I said “all okay” into the phone’s microphone; however, “ooo k” appeared on my screen. My husband and I bought the car I am driving before we purchased our cell phones. Our dinosaur phones were compatible with the car’s Bluetooth device. They worked faithfully, and the driver’s phone was automatically connected. Not so with our new phones. Keeping them connected
was like attempting to stand still while inside of a revolving door. The phones somehow adversely affected our navigation system. We were making more trips to the dealer than the doctors – and neither is a great way to spend the day. After replacing three car radios – thankfully under warranty – one mechanic at the dealership finally found the cause of the problem. My husband’s cell phone, a Windows model, was incompatible with the car’s radio/Bluetooth/ navigation system. The mechanic then disconnected my husband’s phone from our car’s Bluetooth device. Hubby looked as if someone told him he could no longer have permanent custody of our television’s remote. As soon as we were home, he researched and found out no “cure” was available for his phone’s incompatibility problem. Hubby had no choice but to remain “bluetoothless” until our cellphone contract was up. Ironically, even though his phone is disconnected, somehow when he is behind the wheel, the screen on the navigational system/radio keeps changing. Even worse, my phone is automatically disconnected. It makes me wonder if electronic devices can be haunted by bad electronic memories. I have mastered the Words With Friends app, but the music and communication apps frustrate me. Once I had the music on, I had so much trouble turning it off, I never used it again. Our alarm clock broke, and I attempted to use the one on the cell phone. It actually worked the first time, but not the second. No clue what I did wrong, and since we almost missed an early morning appointment, I bought a new, old-fashioned alarm clock. Recently, I took the reading list for my community’s Book Club to the library only to discover that CONTINUED ON PAGE 19
Senior Focus December, 2014/January, 2015
Quit smoking with help of Medicare and other tools Dear …
Savvy Senior By Jim Miller
Q
Does Medicare offer any help for people who want to quit smoking? I just turned 65 and want to quit but I need some help. Coughing Connie Dear Connie,
Yes, Medicare covers up to eight face-to-face counseling sessions a year to help beneficiaries quit smoking. And, if you have a Medicare Part D prescription drug plan, certain smoking-cessation medications are covered too. Here are some other tips that can help you kick the habit.
Never too late
Of the 46 million Americans who smoke, about 5.5 million are Medicare beneficiaries. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 50 percent of smokers, age 65 and older, indicate they would like to completely quit, but because of the nicotine, which is considered to be more addictive than heroin, it’s difficult to do. Tobacco use is the leading cause of preventable illness, responsible for an estimated one-fifth of deaths in the U.S. each year.
CHALLENGED CONTINUED FROM PAGE 18
most of the books were on hold, or they didn’t stock them. The librarian said some of them might be available to check out electronically. I thanked her, too embarrassed to say that I didn’t own a Kindle. I drove home thinking that perhaps it was time I purchased an electronic reader. After all, “everyone” else I knew swore by them. My fear of not being able to learn how to use one was preventing me from partaking in Book
But research shows that quitting, even after age 65, greatly reduces your risk of heart disease, stroke, cancer, osteoporosis and many other diseases. It also helps you breathe easier, smell and taste food better, not to mention saves you quite a bit of money. A $7 pack-a-day smoker, for example, saves about $210 after one month without cigarettes, and more than $2,500 after one year.
How to quit
The first step you need to take is to set a “quit date,” but give yourself a few weeks to get ready. During that time you may want to start by reducing the number or the strength of cigarettes you smoke to begin weaning yourself. Also consider using over-thecounter nicotine replacement products – patches, gum and lozenges – to help curb your cravings. And just prior to your quit day, get rid of all cigarettes and ashtrays in your home, car and place of work. And try to clean up and even spray air freshener. The smell of smoke can be a powerful trigger.
Get help
Studies have shown that you have a much better chance of quitting if you have help. So tell your friends, family, and coworkers of your plan to quit. Others knowing Club. “After all,” I said to myself, “I am learning to use my phone – slowly, yet learning.” That night, after researching on Google, I decided to purchase the Kindle with the fewest gadgets and did so the next day. It has been two weeks since my purchase. I would like to say I have successfully downloaded the desired reading material. I would like to, but won’t lie. Eda Suzanne is a retired teacher, now a freelance writer. Check out her website, edasuzanne.com or contact her at edasuzanne@comcast.net.
– Senior Wire©
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can be a helpful reminder and motivator. Then get some counseling. Don’t go it alone. Start by contacting your doctor about smoking cessation counseling covered by Medicare, and find out about the prescription antismoking drugs that can help reduce your nicotine craving. You can also get free one-onone telephone counseling and referrals to local smoking cessation programs through the state’s quit line at 800-QUIT-NOW (800-7848669) or the National Cancer Institute free smoking quit line, 877-44U-QUIT (877-448-7848). It’s also important to identify and write down the times and situations you’re most likely to smoke and make a list of things you can do to replace it or distract yourself. Some helpful suggestions when the smoking urge arises are to call a friend or one of the free quit lines; keep your mouth occupied with some sugar-free gum, sunflower seeds, carrots, fruit or hard candy; go for a walk; read a magazine; listen to music or take
a hot bath. The intense urge to smoke lasts about three to five minutes, so do what you can to wait it out. It’s also wise to avoid alcohol and steer clear of other smokers while you’re trying to quit. Both can trigger powerful urges to smoke. For more tips on how to quit, including managing your cravings, withdrawal symptoms and what to do if you relapse, visit smoke free.gov and nihseniorhealth.gov/ quittingsmoking. If you’re a smartphone user, there are a number of apps that can help like Cessation Nation, Quit It Lite and LIVESTRONG MyQuit Coach. Send your questions to Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070 or visit SavvySenior.org. Jim Miller is a contributor to the NBC Today show and author of The Savvy Senior book.
The Opportunity Shoppe, Senior Services estate, vintage and thrift store is open for business. Plan to stop and shop, 6915 Evergreen Way, Everett
Give the Gifts of Time, Patience and Fun! Traveling tutor will come to you
Dear Santa,
Please tell my family all I want for Christmas is my very own private computer lesson to help me with my email, surfing the internet, and saving pictures of my precious grandbabies. For information call Lynne Davis at 425.258.1931
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20 December, 2014/January, 2015 Senior Focus
Eat healthy, be healthy …
Immune Supporting Soup
Eating for a good immune system Meal Times All the Nutrition News You can Use
By Lilly (Ling-Yun) Kuo, MS, RDN Senior Services of Snohomish County
Our body’s ability to interact with bacteria and viruses is dependent on our immune system. The primary function of the immune system (made up of cells and organs) is to protect us from foreign attack of bacteria and viruses. Nutrition alone does not fight against or prevent diseases but it does play a critical role in supporting optimal immune function. Malnutrition is a well-known cause for suppressed immune function.
Protein
Research shows that protein deficiency can result in undesirable effects on the immune system. Our immune system is made up of protein and requires a consistent supply to maintain its health. There are 20 amino acids found in protein and each amino acid is essential in cell growth and repair. Therefore, a diet that contains adequate protein is important in supporting the immune system. Lilly Kuo is a dietitian with Senior Services Nutrition Program. For information about Senior Nutrition, call 425-347-1229 or 800-824-2183.
Foods that are good sources of protein are poultry, beef, fish, beans and nuts. Most of the protein from animal sources is complete protein, meaning it contains all the essential amino acids for the body. Incomplete protein is usually found in plant-based foods such as beans, nuts, seeds and whole grains. It is important to combine different plant-source proteins to receive all the essential amino acids. In general, it is recommended 10 to 35 percent of your daily calories come from protein. If you have kidney or liver disease, the recommended protein intake is 46 grams for a female adult and 56 grams for a male adult. Here are some examples of protein in food: 1 cup of milk has 8 grams of protein, a 3-ounce piece of meat has 21 grams and 1 cup of dry beans has 16 grams of protein.
Vitamins and minerals
Vitamins and minerals are required for the immune system to function efficiently. Without enough vitamins and minerals, our body’s ability to fight infection can be reduced. Of all the vitamins and minerals, Vitamins A, B, C and E, Selenium, Cooper, Iron and Zinc have the most essential influence on response of the immune system. People who are at risk of vitamin and mineral deficiency include older adults, pregnant
DECEMBER MENU December 1 – 5
Tues: Coleslaw, fish & chips, tropical fruit. Weds: Broccoli salad, chicken ala king on baked potato, beets, fresh fruit. Thurs: Tossed salad, salisbury steak w/gravy, mashed potato, parslied carrots, fresh fruit. Fri: Holiday Menu: Tossed salad, baked ham, roasted sweet potatoes, vegetable medley, holiday dessert.
Mon: Tossed salad, cheese pizza w/ veggies; peaches, pudding. Tues: Tossed salad, Swedish meatballs on noodles, spinach, fruit cocktail. Weds: Vegetable soup, fish burger on whole wheat bun w/lettuce & tomato, pears. Thurs: Broccoli salad, turkey pot roast, mashed potato w/gravy, carrots, fresh fruit. December 22 – 26 Fri: Coleslaw vinaigrette, mandarin Mon: Tossed salad, chili w/green onchicken, barley rice, vegetable, manion & shredded cheese, tortilla chips, darin oranges. pineapple, pudding. Tues: Cucumber salad, chicken priDecember 8 – 12 mavera on penne, vegetable, appleMon: Hearty lentil soup, egg salad sauce. sandwich on wheat bread w/lettuce, Weds: Tossed salad, grilled tuna melt, apricots, brownie. pasta salad, fresh fruit. Tues: Fruit salad, chicken parmesan Thurs: Closed for holiday. on spaghetti w/sauce, green beans, Fri: Coleslaw, grilled chicken burger garlic bread stick, sherbet. on wheat bun w/lettuce & tomato, Weds: Taco salad w/beef, cheese & chips, apricots. rancho beans on chips w/salsa & sour cream, mandarin oranges, flan. December 29 – 31 Thurs: Chef’s Choice. Mon: Tossed salad, manicotti w/three Fri: Hot turkey sandwich, mashed cheeses & marinara sauce, green peas, potato w/gravy, peas & carrots, fruit. mixed fruit. Tues: Pea salad, baked fish, winter December 15 – 19 squash, spinach, fresh fruit. Mon: Tossed salad, vegetable lasaWeds: Carrot salad, french dip, potato gna, vegetable, applesauce. wedges, fruit cocktail.
women and overweight/obese individuals. Food sources for Vitamin A, B, C and E include: Sources of Vitamin A from animals include eggs, milk and liver. However, liver is known to contain high cholesterol and it is suggested you limit its intake. Most dietary sources of Vitamin A come from green leafy vegetables as well as other green, orange and yellow vegetables (broccoli. carrots, squash), tomato products and fruits (cantaloupe, apricots). Fortified cereal is also a good way to increase Vitamin A intake. Since Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin, it is absorbed better when cooked and consumed with oil. B vitamins can be found in many different foods including animal protein (poultry, meat and fish), eggs and dairy products. You can also get Vitamin B by eating leafy greens, beans and fortified cereals. For people who are on a strict diet, such as a vegan diet, it is recommended they add supplements of Vitamin B6 and Vitamin B12 as these micronutrients are mostly found in animal food. Most fruits and vegetables contain Vitamin C. In the U.S., the major sources of Vitamin C are citrus fruits, tomatoes and tomato juice. Other good food sources include red and green peppers, broccoli, strawberries, cantaloupe and leafy greens. It is important to remember that the Vitamin C level may be reduced by prolonged food storage and by cooking. Fortunately, most fruit is consumed
3 oz. chicken breast, cooked and diced 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth, low sodium 8 cloves garlic, minced 2 medium carrots, shredded or diced 1 yellow onion, chopped 8 mushrooms, sliced 1 tablespoon minced ginger 3 cups spinach 1 tablespoon turmeric or curry spice 1 lemon, optional 2 tablespoons olive oil Heat olive oil in a stockpot over medium heat. Add chicken breast and stir until cooked. Add carrot, onion, garlic and ginger and cook until soft, about 5 minutes. Add the broth and turn down to simmer for 15 minutes or until vegetables are soft. Add spinach and mushrooms and cook 5 minutes until done Add turmeric or curry, and salt to taste. Remove from heat. Add lemon juice (optional). Makes 4 servings. Per serving: 229 calories, 15 g protein, 33 g carbohydrate, 8 g fat, 4 g fiber, 137 g sodium.
raw and retains its Vitamin C. Vitamin E is found naturally in many foods including nuts, seeds and vegetable oil. Many cereals are also fortified with Vitamin E. Adding nuts and seeds to CONTINUED ON PAGE 21
Meal site menu – what you need to know Meal includes 1% milk, roll or bread and margarine. Fresh produce is subject to availability. Substitutions may be made without notice. Suggested meal donation is $3 ($6 for non-eligible person). For information, call Senior Nutrition, 425-347-1229 or 800-824-2183.
JANUARY MENU Thurs: Vegetable soup, hot seafood sandwich, fresh veggies w/dip, pears. Thurs: Closed for New Year’s Day Fri: Tossed salad, meatloaf, mashed Fri: Tossed salad, salisbury steak w/ potato w/gravy, green beans, fruit. gravy, mashed potato, dilled carrots, January 19 – 23 fresh fruit.
January 1 - 2
January 5 - 9 Mon: Hearty lentil soup, egg salad sandwich on wheat bread w/lettuce, apricots, brownie. Tues: Tossed salad, hamburger gravy on mashed potato, vegetable, tropical fruit. Weds: Coleslaw, fish & chips, fresh fruit. Thurs: Tossed salad, turkey w/mushroom gravy on rice, peas & carrots, peaches. Fri: Broccoli salad, turkey pot roast, mashed potato w/gravy, carrots, fresh fruit.
January 12 – 16 Mon: Tossed salad, cheese pizza w/ veggies, fresh fruit, pudding. Tues: Fruit salad, chicken parmesan on spaghetti w/sauce, broccoli, garlic bread stick sherbet. Weds: Carrot salad, french dip, potato wedges, fresh fruit.
Mon: Closed for MLK Holiday. Tues: Tossed salad, lasagna, vegetable, applesauce. Weds: Cucumber salad, baked fish, baked potato, spinach, mixed fruit. Thurs: Tossed salad, swedish meatballs on noodles, peas & carrots, fruit cocktail. Fri: Tossed salad, chicken ala king on baked potato, beets, fresh fruit.
January 26 – 30 Mon: Beet salad, macaroni & cheese, green beans, fresh fruit. Tues: Pea salad, chicken alfredo on penne, vegetable, applesauce. Weds: Asian slaw, sweet & sour chicken w/stir fry vegetables, brown rice, fresh fruit. Thurs: Taco salad w/beef, cheese & rancho beans on chips w/salsa & sour cream, mandarin oranges, flan. Fri: Roast pork w/sweet & sour red cabbage, stuffing, green peas, fruited gelatin.
Senior Focus December, 2014/January, 2015
The best inventions of my lifetime By Sy Rosen This list is what I consider the 15 best inventions of my lifetime. And I know it’s hard to believe, but my lifetime doesn’t include the automobile, radio, or the wheel. In ascending order they are: 15) The remote control. Do you remember the old days when we had to get off the couch to change a channel? How did we do it? The first remote was invented in 1956 by Zenith and called “Lazy Bones.” Coincidentally, this is what my wife calls me. 14) The microwave oven. I can cook a baked potato in about 8 minutes – except for world peace and universal health care, life can’t get any better. 13) The iPod. I can download the Beetles and Frank Sinatra and listen to them while eating a baked potato. Okay, I really don’t know how to download to my iPod and have to ask my daughter for help. But I still think it’s a great
IMMUNE SYSTEM CONTINUED FROM PAGE 20
salads and oatmeal and cooking with vegetable oil will ensure you get an adequate amount of Vitamin E. Sources of minerals: Trace minerals are readily available in many foods such as leafy greens, nuts and seeds, beans, animal proteins and fortified cereals. Most legumes, nuts and seeds contain selenium, copper, iron and zinc. Brazil nuts contain the most selenium among all other nuts. For copper, the top three food sources are sesame seeds, cashew nuts and soybeans. Iron is found in many different food groups. Beef and organ meats are usually good sources of iron. Iron can also be obtained from leafy greens such as spinach and collard greens. Additionally, cooking in a cast iron pan allows iron to leach into food and increase iron content. Zinc is the most important mineral in supporting immune function. Good sources of zinc include spinach, asparagus, mushrooms and most nuts and seeds. Oysters also contains an abundance of zinc and most animal proteins provide a good amount of zinc as well.
Other tips to support immune system
Relax and rest. A stressful mind usually leads to a stressful body. When we are stressed, we tend to sleep poorly. Sleep is very important because it is the time our body repairs and restores any damage from the day. When the body loses the opportunity to restore and repair, it can impair the immune system. Aim for 7 to 8 hours of sleep and find ways to relax, such as reading, watching movies and taking a bath. Stay active: Physical activity
invention. 12) The artificial heart. I wasn’t going to include medical inventions because I’m sure everyone has a favorite. My Uncle Harold can’t stop talking about Metamucil; my Uncle Phil raves about dental floss; and my Aunt Harriet keeps saying how great it is that my Uncle Mort is using Viagra. As you can imagine, family dinners aren’t a lot of fun. However, the artificial heart is so important and groundbreaking that I just had to include it on the list. 11) The answering machine. It was invented before I was born but didn’t gain popularity in the U.S. until the 1960s so I’m going to include it (hey, it’s my list). I love leaving the house and having messages waiting for me like a little present (except if they’re from my Uncle Harold talking about Metamucil). 10) I’m lumping together DVD, VHS, VCR, DVR, Blue-ray. They allow you to watch a TV show is not only good for your body but also helps keep your immune system strong and healthy. If you are unable to go outside for a walk, try exercising indoors. Aim for at least 30 minutes a day. However, if you are not feeling your best, make sure you take a break from any intense workout routine.
Prevention
The best way to avoid getting sick is prevention. Viruses and germs can be spread simply by coming in contact with common surfaces such as door knobs, countertops, remote controls and telephones. Keep sanitizing wipes handy to clean the surface. A very effective way to prevent germ spread is to wash your hands often using warm water and soap or use hand sanitizer. Another way to prevent illness is to make sure you get a flu shot. It is important to get a flu shot each year to keep up with the rapidly adapting viruses.
any time you want. Again, I have to admit that I really don’t know how to work any of these and still can’t get my VCR to stop blinking 12:00. 9) Ziplock bags. They really keep food fresh. Unfortunately, sometimes when I buy a package of ham that’s sealed this way, I can’t open it and have to use an invention from an earlier era – the scissors. 8) The credit card. It may have been conceived earlier, but in 1950 Diners Club issued the first credit card in the United States (I think I’m still paying that one off). 7) “Pong” was a popular home video game invented in 1972. It was very soothing and has evolved into such soothing video games as “Resident Evil,” “Grand Theft Auto,” “Call of Duty,” “Watch Dogs,” “The Walking Dead,” “Killzone,” and “F.E.A.R.” 6) The ATM. In the late 1960s the first ATM in the U.S. was installed outside of a bank. And I’ve been taking money out of these evil devices ever since. 5) The digital camera. I love
21
that I can instantly erase any picture that makes me look fat, old or generally funny looking. In other words, I erase most of my pictures. 4) The hybrid car. It was invented before my lifetime but has just recently been improved. These cars reduce pollution and can get over 60 miles to a gallon. Everyone who cares about the environment should get one…I haven’t, but I’m an idiot. 3) The computer, the internet, e-mail, Google, YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter. I’m lumping together all these technical inventions because I don’t want them to take up most of my list. I again have to admit that I have trouble using most of this stuff and have to ask my daughter for help. 2. The cell phone. I hate when people are talking loudly on their cell, but it’s still a great invention and I do know how to use it…kind of. 1) Wheels on luggage. This great invention has put a lot of chiropractors out of business. It’s one of those terrific innovations that makes you say, “I could have invented that.” And most importantly, I know how to work it. – Senior Wire©
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22 December, 2014/January, 2015 Senior Focus
Volunteer Connections Volunteers wanted! By John McAlpine
RSVP Program Recruiter
RSVP exists to help volunteers 55+ find fulfillment in volunteer work and will match your lifetime of skills and experience to the organization of your choice. Sponsored by Catholic Community Services, RSVP is America’s largest volunteer network for persons over 55 and the only agency where the collective contribution of senior volunteers is recorded. Volunteer opportunities exist all over Snohomish County. No matter where you live we can probably match you with a job.
Food Banks –
As we enter the cold winter months, having enough to eat grows in importance. There are food bank opportunities all over the county. RSVP works with the VOA and other food bank sponsors to find volunteers for jobs behind the scenes, jobs unloading the trucks and jobs stocking items. You can package bulk items,
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stock shelves and keep the Food Bank tidy. There are also opportunities to work with clients and help them select food. Some food banks use drivers to go out into the community and pick up food. No matter where you live, a food bank near you needs help. You can get involved in Arlington, Everett (several locations), Lake Stevens, Lynnwood, Marysville, Mill Creek, Monroe, Mountlake Terrace and Snohomish.
Tutors –
One of our main focus areas is education. We seek individuals to help students improve in the classroom. Several opportunities exist to perform this valuable service. You can help first and second graders with reading; middle school students preparing for high school (and beyond); students in a homeless situation; adults learning English as a second languagee; and kids after school at the Boys and Girls Club. You can volunteer once a day, a week or a month, it’s up to you.
Volunteer Transportation-
All over the county there are people without personal transportation. Many of the clients are on a fixed income and can’t afford a cab, and the bus is not practical. Can you be the person that helps? You must have a clean driving record (a ticket or two won’t stop you), current insurance, working lights, horn and brakes and a desire to help. Clients enter and exit the vehicle on their own. Mileage reimbursement is provided. You pick when and where you drive. If interested call or email me today! If you have questions about RSVP, volunteering or any of the agencies you see listed above, contact John McAlpine at 425-374-6374 or send an e-mail to johnm@ccsww.org. The office is located 1918 Everett Ave., Everett.
Where are They Now?
GENE WILDER By Marshall J Kaplan The funny man of the cinema – best known for his association in Mel Brooks’ films – considers himself retired from acting, but not retired from writing novels. Gene Wilder was born as Jerome Silberman on June 11, 1933, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. He first became interested in acting at the age of eight. After high school, Wilder studied Theatre Arts at the University of Iowa. Upon graduation, he attended The Bristol Old Vic Theatre School in England for six months, then returned to the U.S. to further study acting at the Stanislavski Method of Acting School in New York City. During this time, Wilder began appearing on stage in such plays as Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night. Always a student of his craft, Wilder enrolled at the prestigious Actor’s Studio to be taught by the legendary Lee Strasberg. It was at this time that he changed his name. He took “Gene” from a Thomas Wolfe novel, Look Homeward Angel, and “Wilder” from author Thornton Wilder. After 10 years of in-depth, serious acting classes, education and various stage plays, Wilder made his film debut in the legendary film Bonnie and Clyde (1967 with Warren Beatty and Faye Dunaway). However, all of his train-
ing in dramatic acting was soon to be tossed aside when Wilder was approached by writer/director Mel Brooks. In 1967, Brooks convinced Wilder that he’d be perfect for the role of Leo Bloom in the dark comedy/musical The Producers (1968). The film became a comedic cult classic, and Wilder became a comedy sensation. “I’m not so funny. I’m funny on camera sometimes. In life, once in a while.” Wilder’s association with Brooks continued in the films Blazing Saddles and Young Frankenstein (both 1974). He also worked with the legendary Woody Allen in Everything You Always Wanted To Know About Sex…But Were Afraid To Ask (1972), and he starred as the title character in the classic children’s film Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory (1971). The 1980s saw Wilder form three long-term relationships, two professional ones with Richard Pryor and Sidney Poitier and one personal one with Gilda Radner. Pryor and Wilder starred together in Silver Streak (1976), Stir Crazy (1980) and See No Evil, Hear No Evil (1989). Poitier directed Stir Crazy and also directed Wilder in Hanky Panky (1982) – where he met his future wife, Saturday Night Live alumni, funny lady Gilda Radner. Radner and Wilder starred together in the Wilder-directed film The Lady In Red (1984). Sadly, in 1989, Gilda died of ovarian cancer. Wilder founded the Ovarian Cancer Detection Center in her name. Although Wilder continued to CONTINUED ON PAGE 23
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This space could be yours! For information about placing an ad in this Service Directory, contact… Dale Bohm 425.263.1868 or e-mail srfocusads@sssc.org It’s the perfect place to let Senior Focus readers know about your business or service.
Senior Focus December, 2014/January, 2015
23
When a man has to fast By Saralee Perel When readers meet me, they never want to talk to me. Instead, they excitedly look all around for my husband, saying, “Where’s Bob?” Everyone loves Bob. But they feel sorry for him because I often make him look like a doofus (which he is) in my columns. They look at him with pity and say, “You’re such a good sport.” Well, I’m here to tell you: Bob adores it when I write about him. When I don’t include him, he’ll ask, “What about me?” with an insanely disappointed look on his face. Having said all that, last week he had to fast for routine blood work, which meant no food after midnight. No big deal, right? Early that evening, he was face down on the couch. I knelt down and massaged his shoulders. “What’s the matter?” I said. Ever so slowly he raised his head. “Don’t you remember the medical procedure I’m about to get?” “It’s not an operation, sweets. It’s just a blood test.” He sat up. “JUST A BLOOD TEST?” I quietly tiptoed out of the room. At five to midnight, I found him in the kitchen, gorging on frozen pizza. “Sheesh Bob. Don’t you want to nuke it first?” “There’s no time!” I lovingly took his hands, but
WILDER CONTINUED FROM PAGE 22
make film and television appearances, he made a conscious decision to take a step back from acting as the films out there were just not for him. He explains, “I’m tired of watching the bombing, shooting, killing, swearing and 3-D. I get 52 movies a year sent to me. If it’s something wonderful, I’ll do it. But I don’t get anything like that.” Wilder turned his creativity towards writing with his first novel released in 2007. His most recent novel was published in 2013. Wilder has remarried and lives a quiet life with his wife in Connecticut. “I don’t like show business, I realized,” he explained. “I like show, but I don’t like the business. I like writing books. I’d rather be at home with my wife. I can write, take a break, come out, have a glass of tea, give my wife a kiss, and go back in and write some more. It’s not so bad. I am really lucky.”
he crazily pulled away and frantically searched through the cookie jar. “Where are the peanut butter cookies?” he said. Slowly, I stepped backward and whispered, “I – I – may have finished them last night.” “WHAT?” “Well, I, um. I wanted cookies.” “Oh, so you wanted cookies, did you? I will never forgive you for this.” He dragged himself off to bed. I quietly got in bed too. In exactly three minutes he started moaning the song from Oliver. “Food glorious food – hot sausage and mustard.” Less than an hour later, he sneezed once and said, “Starvation has caused me to get a cold.” Now, I don’t like gender stereotyping. But I take that back when it comes to a cold. That’s because Bob gets “man colds.” During his last one, he threw himself an “I’m going to die,” party. I realized that the way I was approaching this was all wrong. So I changed. And miraculously, I also found the cure to the common cold. “You’ll be OK,” I said. “Right after your blood work, we’ll get rid of your cold. Instead of heading to your favorite diner like we planned, for a luscious omelet made with grilled apples, cheddar cheese & bacon, we’ll keep you on nothing but chicken broth all day.” Suddenly he stopped sneezing. “Sweets, we couldn’t have gone to the diner anyway,” I said. “You’re obviously too weak from starvation. We’ll go there someday, sometime – far, far from now since it will clearly take a long time for you to recover from your horrible fasting ordeal.” And with that, he jumped out of bed and said, “I feel great!” After the blood work, we went to the restaurant, where Bob made a
speedy recovery as he reveled in mouthfuls of glorious food. That week, I ended up with a monster cold. I knew Bob would get back at me for how I tricked him into getting better. I stayed in bed – waiting. He found my grandmother’s quilt in the cupboard and placed Bob and Saralee at the diner it on me, tenderly snuggling it under my chin. He propped up our pillows. We Between sneezes I said, “This spent the day together, watching is the worst cold I’ve ever had. Go Murphy Brown reruns and luxuahead. Make fun of me. I deserve riating in the nearness of each it.” other. “Yep, you do,” he said, putting So, of course everyone loves on his jacket and getting the car Bob. That’s because we all know keys. that he is just like this – sensi “Bob, you’re going out when I’m tive, loving, compassionate and on my deathbed?” adoring – even when I don’t have When he came home, he had a a cold. bag with him. He took out a chicken pot pie; my favorite Kleenex, Award-winning nationally syndicatmade with aloe; a copy of People ed columnist, Saralee Perel, can be magazine; and a carton of mint reached at sperel@saraleeperel.com or visit saraleeperel.com. chocolate chip ice cream.
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24 December, 2014/January, 2015 Senior Focus
Thank You!
A Helping Hand, Inc Wendy Abbey Eddie & Ellen Abellera Martina Aguinaldo Leanne Aleia Dina Alexander Carolyn Allendoerfer Karen Allvin Don Alstrom Patricia Anderson Rich & Connie Anderson Buzz Arney Denney Austin Linda Baines Laura Ballard Alison Barnes Archie Barr Thomas Beard William & Paula Beatty Mark Beckmeyer Cooper Biddiscombe Irina Bikbov Carrie Blair Marilyn Boe Debra Bordsen Andria Bovey Jim & Jen Brawner Darlene & Rusty Brooks Kirk Brooks Norm Brooks Terry & Maria da Gloria Brown Tom Brown Theresa & James Brownfield Doris Brueckner Donna Bugge Maryke Burgess Gigi Burke Peter Camp Jacqui Campbell Jim Captain Madelyn Carlson Cascade Companion Care Brad & Chris Cattle Lynette Chen-Wagner Tim Chiang-Lin Jim Church Jen Chwalibog & Jeremy Davis David & Mary Claeys Don Clayton Coast Real Estate Services Coastal Community Bank Alexander Cobbin Brian & Anna Cochran Linda Collure Ace & Lita Consolacion Rick Cooper & Robin Hilton Ann Corin Elaine Cornell Sandra Coulon-Hanlin Tim Coulter Marshall & Katherine Cymbaluk Hema Dahal Gwen Danforth Ralph & Julie Davis Jerry & Sue Dawson Rowena DeFato Michael & Monica Deigh Maureen & Frank DePuy Paul Desilet Daniel & Elizabeth Detloff Victoria DeVine
Thomas & Kim Dietz Van Dinh-Kuno Paul Dini Linda Divina Larry Dolan Wistremundo Dones Linda Donohue Dorothy G. Elway Rick & Julia Ann Dorris Duitsman Financial Inc Janet Duncan Sarah Duncan Kamilia Dunsky & John Peterson Bill Dyson Neil Edwards Ruth Egger Thelma Eggleston Janice Ellis Scott Ernst Carolyn Eslick & Charles Donaldson Family Resource Home Care Kristi Favard Daniel Feldman James Fetzer Brigitte Fisher Sandy Foris Scott & Gayle Forslund Norm Frampton Michelle Frye Kenny & Ivy Fung Weng & Linda Gavino Mona Gedney Arthur & Peggy Gerdes Bonnie Gerken Ann Gifford Allison Gilham David Gizzi Gary Goldbaum Pat Good Jacey Gravelle Greater Seattle Concrete Stephen Greene Peter Grodt Daniel Gualtieri Charles & Diane Guildner Ashley Hagins Haight Carpet & Interiors Michael Hall Ken Hammond Leslie Hanson Laura & Chad Harding Nick & Lacey Harper Traci Harris Steve & Christina Harrison Emmett Heath Mary Heffernan Trester Mic & Doreen Heffron Paul & Mary Heneghan Tom Heneghan Charles Henry Rick Henshaw Jean Hernandez Vicci & John Hilty Dennis & Laura Himple Gloria Hirashima Helen Hodgins Tim & Leslie Hodson Wendy Hoerner April Hogan Elizabeth Holmes Nancy Holmes Homewatch Caregivers Brent & Terry Huffer Emily Hughes
Senior Services recently held its 9th Annual fundraising luncheon at the Edward D. Hansen Conference Center in Everett. This event raised more than $74,000 and will directly support the work of Senior Services. Thanks to the generosity of our donors, 38,000 seniors and people with disabilities benefit from services that include nutrition, housing, transportation, health and social services. We are honored to have so many sponsors, friends and community partners come together to make a difference in this community.
Shawna Hughes Jamie Hunter-Mitchell Morris Hutchison Interface Technologies Northwest Lelia & Perry Irvine Michael & Marcia Isenberg Cynthia Jacobs Steve Jacobson Lynn Jefferson
Kathleen McCormick David McCrea Miriam McHardy Karen McKeen Randall and Brenda McLeod Julie Mellick Jeanne Metzger Maddy Metzger-Utt & Randy Utt
In one hour 350 friends of Senior Services came together to make a difference in the lives of older adults and people with disabilities.
Connie Johnson Jeff Johnson Chris & Eileen Jowell Lawrence & Linda Jubie Kevin Jungfleisch Debbie Keefe Carmen Kelly Lisa King Richard & Virginia King Ken Klein Marilyn Kliman Chris Knapp Erica Koenig Brenda Koga Meri & Dustin Koons Tiffany Kopec Bud Kopp George Kosovich Steve & Sonya Kraski Wendy Krause Christina Kulhanek Luanne Kunz Jeff & Ginny Kynaston Barb Lamoureux Landmark III LLC Chuck Lauby Bob Le Roy Bob & Kathy Leach Dan & Shannon Leach James & Heather Lee Amy Leonard Pam & Patrick LeSesne Julie Lienhard Frances Lloyd Tim Locke Les Loja Kim Love John & Karen Lovick Greg Lowe Robert Lowell Steve & Rhonda Lowry Mark Mantei Pat Martin Robin Martin Karri Matau & Shelton Lyter Douglas & Leanne Maxwell Carol McArthur Pat & Claudia McClain
Emily Meyer Sumiko Miller Dale & Melani Miller Kent & Joan Millikan Caroline Misener Marcia Mitchell Arnold Molano John & Christine Monroe Chuck & Cecile Morrison Joy Munkers Greg Kruse & Margo Myers Kristin Myers & Jon Lovern Pamela Nagel Jane Nakagawa Jon Nehring Eleanor Nogales J. Patrick & Rhonda Nolan Jennifer Nolan Non Profit Insurance Program Vickie Norris Dave & Cynthia Nowowiejski Josh O’Connor Heather Odegaard Cathy Osborn Ken & Sharon Ostant Caroline Osuna Beverly & William Otis Rebecca Owens Pacific Continental Bank Neal Pattison Roger & Gail Pawley Jeff & Amanda Payne Mindy Penn Martha Peppones Roger & Lavonne Pflueger David Phillips Dottie & Don Piasecki Char Pike Frank Podany John Policar Vahida Polovina Charles Powers Phyllis Prather Ed Proudfoot Cathy Pruss Kathy Putt
Vasheti Quiros Carreen Radcliff Gail Rauch Refugee & Immigrant Services NW Becky Reimer Rick & Kastle Resseguie Marcia Richards Darlene Riley Victor Rivera June Robinson Michael Robinson Theresa Robinson Sandi Rodenbough Jackie Roelen Jen Rosenbrook & Tyler Roush Kathy Ross Safety Line Mary Ann Sande Marilla Sargent Charles Saylor Kevin & Marj Schmidt Sam & Dianne Scott Senior Care Consultants Myle Shaffer Shawn’s Produce Walter & Karen Sherblon Reid & Linda Shockey Shirley Shular Eileen Simmons Renee Sinclair Alison & Claudia Sing Nancy Sitton Donald Smith Janene Smith Kelley Smith Leslie Somes Michael Spillane Sue Stanley Jill Stanton Susie Starrfield Sean Stefanik Terri Stefnik Jim & Dawn Steinruck Jim Stephanson Vincent & Chrishna Stevens Erin Stewart
Sean Straub Patricia Stuart Rose Sullivan Sunrise View Retirement Villa Virginia Sweiberg Linda Tatta Carol & Kory Teichgrab Bernadine Terry Bob & Mimi Terwilliger The Everett Clinic David Thiele Wayne Thomas Thomas Tocher Lia Loina Toupin Ty Trenary Christi Trimble-Kreutz Dipa Trivedi Art & Colleen Tuck Judy Tuohy Beni Turan Mark & Michelle Valentine Roland Van Haeften Karen Van Hoose Nancy Van Overbeke Victoria Vandegriend-Cole Mara & Sydney Vinnedge Mark Waldin Waypoint Consulting Group Gary & Carolyn Weikel Wendy Westby Richard & Anita Westgard Westwood Precision Carol Wheeler & Bill Willard Dee & Timothy White James White Jennifer White Richard & Brenda White David & Linda Whitesell Betty Width Jennifer Wilson Norton Donna & Gary Wright Steven Yago Keith Yarter Roy & Barbara Yates Zoe Yeager
Event Sponsors Total Outdoor Heritage Bank The Daily Herald The Boeing Company HomeStreet Bank Puget Sound Energy EK Bus Sales The Everett Clinic Adams & Duncan Lawyers Group Health Food Services of America Premera Blue Cross Erickson Furniture Tulalip/Quil Ceda Village Quail Park of Lynnwood Puget Sound Kidney Centers Alexander Printing Airline Catering Shawn’s Quality Produce ResCare HomeCare HUB International/The Unity Group Garden Court Retirement Community Coast Real Estate Services
Senior Focus December, 2014/January, 2015
u o y k Than … r u o o t
Community Sponsors
Each year Senior Services depends on the generous support of community partners to help provide basic needs, encouragement and hope to thousands of seniors, people with disabilities and those who care for them. From affordable housing to good nutrition, to safe and accessible transportation, to finding the right service at the right time, Senior Services, with the help of our community partners, is here to help. We are honored that the following businesses supported our mission and our senior community through a generous annual sponsorship in 2014.
$5,000 and above SPONSORS
$2,500 SPONSORS
$1,000 SPONSORS
11627 Airport Rd., Suite B Everett, WA 98204 www.sssc.org 425.355.1112 Serving 35,000 seniors, people with disabilities and family caregivers each year
25
26 December, 2014/January, 2015 Senior Focus
Portable files, albums There’s increasing awareness that you can store massive amounts of paperwork and photographs in cyberspace, that region known as the cloud. While a portion of this is free, there’s normally a subscription rate required for this storage service that can eliminate the need for filing cabinets, shoeboxes and plastic containers. You can use your phone or tablet to take a picture of what you want to keep and it’ll be hovering around you whenever you need it. Folks on the run, for example, photograph their date books to carry their appointment sched-
Learn about programs and services available to seniors. Visit www.sssc.org. Like us on… Senior Services of Snohomish County
ules with them. What has rapidly become an old-fashioned way to store business records or family photos is to copy them onto discs or flash drives. This two-step method – you scan the document or photo into your computer and then copy it onto the flash drive or DVD – is cited by most people to be timeconsuming. Newer software and computer operating programs, such as Windows 8.1, make scanning simpler and swifter for those who prefer the “old fashioned” way. My friend finds that copying her medical information, addresses (postal and email) and phone numbers, and such documents as passport and driver’s license onto a flash drive is a handy way to take the information with her when she travels. The scan-and-copy to flash drive or DVD method is an excellent way to distribute picture albums to all members of the family. – MLF
Gift Ideas…
Books for the ‘foodie’ in the family The BookNook Settle in and Enjoy
By Bonnie Gerken Food can be more than the energy and fuel needed to sustain life. A lot of emotions are involved. Holiday traditions, dinner dates, family dinners, favorite indulgences, and childhood memories are all wrapped up in our relationship with food. Hundreds of cookbooks are published each year; cooking shows, classes and contests abound; restaurant reviews are available in newspapers, books (see Road Food by Jane and Michael Stern) and the web; and chefs have become stars. There are food writers like M.F.K. Fisher, Laurie Colwin, and Ruth Reichl to analyze our interactions with food. Many fiction series revolve around and include recipes in their stories. Both the Sno-Isle Libraries and Everett Public Library websites have a booklist of mystery novels featuring food. Food is everywhere! Even though we don’t have to cook anymore (given convenience food and assorted restaurants), you may want to get back into the kitchen again, if only in these books.
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Care and Management of Lies by Jacqueline Winspear
When her new husband is sent to be a soldier in the trenches on the Western Front during WWI, Kezia sends her love to him in letters. Her descriptions of the dinners she would be cooking brings him memories of the comforts of home.
Blue Plate Special by Kate Christensen
Kate writes a memoir of her life with her family and of her lifelong passion for food. Neither relationship is necessarily healthy, but your mouth will water at the sensual descriptions and the simple recipes that you can try.
Chop Chop by Simon Wroe
The behind-the-scenes chaos of a restaurant kitchen is brought to vivid life in this tale of an English major finding a job in a London pub. You’ll never eat out again without wondering what’s going on behind the kitchen doors. Reader alert: language
The All You Can Dream Buffet by Barbara O’Neal
Lavender is celebrating her 85th birthday by inviting three special friends from around the country to gather at her Oregon organic farm. Each arrives with personal troubles and then finds hope for the future. But which one of them will inherit the farm?
Cooked by Michal Pollan
The famous food writer answers the question “Why cook?” while describing how he learned to cook with fire (barbecue), water (braising), air (baking), and earth (fermenting). Hint: the joy and satisfaction of transforming the raw stuff of nature into something tasty and nutritious to eat.
Say Yes.... Support the Senior Focus. See page 28
Your gift will ensure the Senior Focus remains a resource for older adults in our community.
Dementia and 24-Hour Care Specialists
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Senior Focus December, 2014/January, 2015
Grandkids, ‘granddogs,’ and great fun! Pet Tails … The ‘Paws-itive’ Approach
By Laura Boro There is nothing in the world that makes seniors happier than their grandkids!! Unless of course, it’s their dog! Put the two together and sometimes it’s not as much “happy” as it is “yappy” when the dog decides kids are not his/her friends. I have worked with several families in helping them find the balance between furry frustration and family friend when introducing a young grandchild to the resident dog. Most dogs are okay with children, if they have previously been around them. They get used to the noise, the activity, the chase, the games and all the rest of the fun that happens when young people are around. But for those dogs that have not been exposed to toddlers or children or that may be under-socialized, it can be challenging or even frightening. Here are some tips to help your dog get along with your grandchildren. Go slow. Have the child sit quietly on the floor or in a lap. Let the dog approach, and have
the owner give a cookie for the “bravery” that the dog is showing. Be careful not to force an interaction – just let your dog and your grandchild slowly become accustomed to each other. Don’t try to pet the dog right away. Greeting and meeting a dog takes time; and if we rush this very important step, we miss an opportunity to build trust. It’s kind of like a first date where you are just getting to know each other. Go slow. Never force a dog to greet a child. Let the dog investigate on his terms, under your watchful eye. Don’t Leave! It’s important to never leave a child alone with the dog. I always err on the side of extreme caution here. No touching! Wait until the dog is comfortable around the children and comes up to them on his own. You can toss/drop a treat carefully, showing the dog that you mean no harm, that you are friendly, and that YOU have yummy treats! Make sure children (and their parents) understand the basic rules about being safe around dogs. Never try to pet or touch a dog when he is sleeping, eating or drinking. Approach a dog slowly and
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Purdy & Walters at Floral Hills 425-672-1800 409 Filbert Rd., Lynnwood www.floralhillslynnwood.com
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LakeWoods I Senior Apartments 12310 19th Pl. W., Everett 98204
For information and application, call 425.353.3898
Social Service Coordinator and Community Manager One bedroom and studio apts. Laundry facilities on site Community room with kitchen and outdoor patio for recreation and entertainment Access-controlled building and emergency alert system All units are wheelchair accessible Close to shopping and services Income restrictions apply Pets welcome
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Scriber Pointe Senior Apartments
Subsidized 62+ Community
Features & Amenities:
Scriber Pointe Senior Apartments 19912 Scriber Lake Rd., Lynnwood WA
For more information please contact
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Why Not Have The Facts? What is the cost of an interest-free Cremation or Funeral Plan? What funeral benefits are available for a Veteran? What are the advantages of using our complimentary Planning Guide? What is the cost of Cemetery Property? What is the cost for a Simple Cremation Plan? Ask about our Flexible Financing Programs
The Opportunity Shoppe, Senior Services estate, vintage and thrift store is open for business. Plan to stop and shop, 6915 Evergreen Way, Everett, 425-740-3797. Donations of gentlyused clothing, household items, furniture, etc. are welcome.
EldEr law attornEy
email: lakewoods@coastmgt.com
It makes sense to pre-plan now.
ing away or just turning the head away from the person or thing that is causing them stress. And last but not least, make sure that the dog knows the behavior basics, such as sit, stay, come, leave it and down. And if he if is not proficient in these, get help from a professional. These guidelines will help give your grandchildren a foundation of respect and empathy, not just for dogs but for all living things. Remember always to have fun and be safe.
calmly and with a soft voice. You may have the child whisper when around the dog in the beginning. No running around or chasing the dog as they get excited about anything or anyone that is moving. Teach the children to leave the dog’s toys, treats or “things” alone, especially if the dog is playing with those items. Watch for signs of distress in your dog. There are “calming signals” that all dogs give when they are experiencing stress or are uncomfortable with a person, place or thing. Those include yawning, liplicking, sniffing the ground, turn-
W
hether you simply want to ensure that your wishes are carried out, or you want to protect your family from making difficult decisions at a time of loss, planning your final arrangements in advance is an important responsibility, and one of the greatest gifts you can give your loved ones.
27
For information and application, call 425.670.8273
email: scriberpointe@coastmgt.com
Social Service Coordinator and Community Manager One bedroom apartments Laundry facilities on site Community room with kitchen and outdoor patio for recreation and entertainment Access-controlled building and emergency alert system All units are wheelchair accessible Close to shopping and services Income restrictions apply Pets welcome
Professionally managed by Coast Real Estate Services
28 December, 2014/January, 2015 Senior Focus
Explore Gmail settings Ask Mr. Modem Helpful Advice for Computer Users
By Richard Sherman
Q
How can I explore the various settings in Gmail? Is there a place I can see demonstrations of what the various Gmail features and options do?
Any changes you make to Gmail through its user settings are easily reversible by returning to the setting in question and changing it back to the way it was. As an alternative, since Gmail is free, you can create a test email account for yourself, then experiment until your head explodes. If you test settings in this manner and find something you particularly like,
Need help sorting through the Medicare maze? Call the Senior Health Insurance Benefits Advisors (SHIBA) program, 425-290-1276.
Computer Training that Comes to You!
WEBSITE: w w w.nad-nw.com
you can then apply it to your primary account.
Q
In using Excel spreadsheets (Windows 7) I cannot establish a uniform procedure to enter dates. If I enter 8/2/2014 it may appear as 8.2.14 or 8-2-14. How can I format my dates so they appear the same every time?
By default, the “short date” display format for Windows (and thus Excel) is “M/d/yyyy,” so August 2, 2014 would be displayed as 8/2/2014. For various reasons, you may want to zero-fill your dates and have August 2, 2014 appear as 08/02/2014. Doing this actually involves a Windows setting, not an Excel setting. I only mention that because if you change this format, it will affect how dates appear throughout Windows and other programs running under Windows. It is not
What does this stuff mean? Find out in one -to-one or group training
C ALL US: 425.344.3106
just confined to Excel, so caution is advised. I would suggest jotting down any changes you decide to make in case you aren’t enamored with the result, so you can then change things back to what you had originally. To change the default date format in Windows, go to your Control Panel and select “Regional Settings” or “Region and Language.” In the Short Date format list, select whatever format you prefer, then click OK. From this point forward, unless the dates in Excel were formatted using Excel’s Format menu for a given spreadsheet, they will display as you have defined them.
Q
At work we just converted to Linux Ubuntu for our computer operating system. I will attend training, but I’ve
Mr. M’s DME (Don’t Miss ’Em) Sites of the Month Chordify
Chordify transforms music from YouTube, SoundCloud or your private collection and converts it into chords that you can play along with on a guitar, ukulele, or piano. It’s a freemium service, meaning it is available in free and paid (premium) versions. The free version allows you to keep three songs in music storage, a maximum song duration of 10 minutes, a maximum file size
Say ‘Yes’ ... support the Senior Focus! “There’s something for everyone,” a reader recently commented when talking about the Senior Focus. From seniors to family members to service providers... readers have shared how the news, information and feature stories have touched their lives. Forty-one years! That’s how long Senior Services has published the Senior Focus. We have grown into a resource that has stood the test of time bringing local information, advice and unique features specifically designed for you. And we will continue to help our readers better understand the sometimes conflicting and confusing barrage of information that surrounds us daily. Through our two publications, The Senior Focus and the annual Senior Source Resource Guide, we strive to keep you informed and aware of the issues and events happening in our community and we do this completely on a self-support basis. Over the years we have been there through the good times and the rough times. Publications are having a difficult time as costs continue to rise and the Senior Focus Newspaper is no exception. That is why our readers are such essential partners in making this publication possible.
Today we are asking you to say ‘Yes’ and support the Senior Focus. Your donation will help ensure the Senior Focus remains a leading voice in our community providing information and news about the things you care about. We thank you for your support! Senior Services of Snohomish County 11627 Airport Rd., Suite B Everett WA 98204 425.290.1277 email: srfocus@sssc.org
a nonprofit organization
been wondering if I send clients an attachment using a word processing or spreadsheet program, will they be able to open it? As long as you save it in a file format your client’s computer can accommodate, there should be no problem. If you use a program such as OpenOffice or LibreOffice (comparable to MS Office, but free and frequently used with Linux) to create a document or spreadsheet, you will be able to save it in a format that Windows or Apple systems can read. I use LibreOffice and work with a large number of publication editors who require .DOC-formatted articles. It is not a problem to simply select the .DOC format when saving the document as opposed to the native LibreOffice .ODT format.
of 10 MB, and .PDFs of the chord diagrams. In the center of the page is the field where you can either upload a song from your collection or the field below it where you can paste in a URL to the song you want to convert. The page created displays the chords to your selected song and a Play button. When you click or tap Play, it starts the song and the chord field begins scrolling. Very cool! chordify.net
Greatist
Not just another health-oriented website, the focus here is not to tell you what healthy means, but rather to help you define what healthy means to you. It takes all the typical fat-shaming/skinnyshaming, fad-preaching and tosses it out the window. The link below takes you to the site’s About page so you can read more about its mission. After reading it, click the Menu icon at the top and select one of the three main topical areas: Fitness, Health, Happiness. If you prefer tropical areas, check out The Seychelles, Maldives or Bali. greatist.com/about
Great Language Game
When you begin, you will hear a short recording of a language being spoken. You are then given multiple choices from which to select your answer. You can make three incorrect guesses before the game terminates. If you have an ear for languages, give it a try. greatlanguagegame.com Use Promo Code TURKEY when entering your six-month subscription to Mr. Modem’s weekly computer-help newsletter and receive one month for free! Visit MrModem.com.30
– Senior Wire©
The Opportunity Shoppe, Senior Services estate, vintage and thrift store is open for business, Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Plan to stop and shop, 6915 Evergreen Way, Everett. Donations of gently-used clothing, household items and accessories, furniture, vintage and collectibles items are welcome. To donate call the store at 425-740-3797.