Looking-Forward-2-27-15

Friday, February 27, 2015

LookingForward Planning for Life After 50

With informative features on finance, health and wellness, retirement living and more!

2 | Looking Forward | Friday, February 27, 2015

Funeral Prearrangement A Wise Financial and Emotional Decision What is Funeral Prearrangement?

Funeral prearrangement is planning and preparing in advance for the one inevitable thing in life. As the saying goes, there are two things that are certain in life‌death and taxes. Though some people have found ways to avoid their taxes, it goes without saying that we have not as yet found a way to avoid death.

We know, too, that one of the most difficult times our families will ever face is the death of a loved one. Doesn’t it make sense to prepare as much as possible in advance so that we make this an easier time for them?

What are the Benefits of Prearrangement?

Planning out funeral details in advance with the assistance of a professional is a completely free service we offer our community members. Many consumer groups highly recommend advance funeral planning because you are able to: • Plan together as a family, rather than alone (after the death) • Spare your loved ones from having to make difficult decisions • Ensure your wishes are well-documented and carried out • Help control costs and reduce emotional overspending • Personalize your plan to reflect your unique personality

What are the Advantages of Prepaying?

You may also want to seriously consider paying for your funeral arrangements ahead of time. This alleviates financial burdens and stress from your family at the time of death. Most families do not have the means to come up with $7,000 to $10,000 in a short amount of time following a death, and funeral services will not usually move forward until that payment is made. Taking care of your funeral funding in advance allows you to: • Take the time now to make wise financial decisions for the future • Make your decisions free of emotional stress and pressure • Find a comfortable payment plan that fits your needs and budget • Benefit from the convenience of funeral insurance (for qualifying individuals) • Enjoy portability for your plan should you relocate • Have peace of mind and no regrets What Are the Reasons Not to Prearrange?

Some people may have objections to prearranging their funeral services in advance, perhaps saying: • It’s too uncomfortable to think of my own mortality • My family doesn’t want to discuss it • I can’t afford to pay ahead of time • I don’t have the time • There are too many options‌it’s just too confusing

• I don’t want anyone to make a fuss over me when I’m gone • I don’t care what they do with my body • I’ll just leave it up to them to decide But when we really think about it, all of these objections start to look more like excuses, don’t they? Prearrangement is simply something we can’t afford not to do, especially if money is tight. Many families want only “the bestâ€? for their lost loved one, often spending hundreds or thousands more than necessary. We can avoid this when we plan a simple, sensible funeral ahead of time.

Prearrangement‌A Priceless Gift Families who have had a loved one prearrange don’t really tend to say, “I wish Mom hadn’t done this.â€?

Instead, they are grateful for the care and concern a parent or spouse showed. They are thankful that they didn’t have to make those difficult decisions alone. They are comforted in knowing that they are following the wishes of their loved one.

This is a gift only you can give‌a final act of love for those you care about the most. There are many reasons why funeral prearrangement is a wise decision, both emotionally and financially, but perhaps most important of all, prearrangement gives you and your loved ones peace of mind knowing everything will be taken care of‌ and that is a priceless gift.

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Friday, February 27, 2015 | Looking Forward | 3

Forever young: 5 ways treating hearing loss can revitalize your life

(BPT) - Listen up, boomers: Do you want to stay active? Vibrant? Socially engaged? Professionally successful? Most of us do.

So maybe it's time to do something about your hearing.

Chances are, if you're like many baby boomers, you've rocked your way through your fair share of concerts, night clubs, and ear-blasting parties. And you've enjoyed years of other noisy recreational activities to boot. Simply: You've been enjoying life. You've spent decades doing it. And it's been loud.

So now, it's not always so easy to hear the conversation around the table at the restaurant or dinner party - maybe not even in the conference room at work or on those teleconference calls.

Face it. All that enthusiastic living has been hard on your ears. And now they're screaming for your attention.

You should give it to them.

In fact, addressing hearing loss is one of the best things you can do to improve your quality of life and keep up a youthful pace.

Fortunately, for most people with hearing loss, today's state-of-the art hearing aids can help. In fact, eight out of 10 hearing aid users say they're satisfied with the changes that have occurred in their lives due to their hearing aids.

Many boomers are surprised to learn that dramatic new technological advances have revolutionized hearing aids in recent years. Many hearing aids are virtually invisible, sitting discreetly and comfortably inside the ear canal. And they adjust to all kinds of noise environments, picking up sound from all directions. Some are even waterproof.

Perhaps best of all, seamless connectivity is now the norm. Today's hearing aids are wireless and stream sound from your smartphone, home entertainment system, and other electronics directly into your hearing aid(s) at volumes just right for you.

Here's what getting a hearing test and using professionally fitted hearing aids, if recommended by a hearing care professional, may do for you: 1. Unlock your earning potential. Hearing your best at work helps you do your best. One study found that using hearing aids reduced the risk of income loss by 90 to 100 percent for those with milder hearing loss, and from 65 to 77 percent for those with severe to moderate hearing loss. And people with hearing loss who use hearing aids are more likely to be employed than their peers who don't.

2. Open the door to greater intimacy. Don't let those sweet nothings go unheard. Feeling emotionally close to your partner is one of the most satisfying aspects of any intimate relationship. But it rests on good communication. When hearing loss goes unaddressed, it can make even the most loving partner seem remote or unresponsive.

Luckily, research shows that using hearing aids

can help improve interpersonal relationships including greater intimacy.

3. Pull the plug on stress and boost your mood.

People with untreated hearing loss often feel angry, frustrated, anxious, isolated, and depressed.

But research shows that when they use hearing aids, their mental health often rallies. Many regain emotional stability, become more socially engaged, feel a greater sense of safety and independence, and see a general improvement in their overall quality of life.

4. Bolster your self-confidence. An important perk of using hearing aids can be enhanced emotional well-being. Research shows that when people with hearing loss use hearing aids, many feel more in control of their lives and less self-critical. One Better Hearing Institute (BHI) study found that the majority of people with mild and severe hearing loss felt better about themselves and life overall as a result of using hearing aids.

5. Improve cognitive functioning. Studies out of Johns Hopkins linked hearing loss with accelerated cognitive decline in older adults and found that seniors with hearing loss are significantly more likely to develop dementia over time. BHI studies found that many people with hearing loss report improvements in their cognitive skills with the use of hearing aids.

So go ahead. Revitalize your life. Do something about your hearing. It just may help you feel forever young.

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4 | Looking Forward | Friday, February 27, 2015

Don't surrender your eye to dry, learn how proper nutrition can help

(BPT) - If your eyes feel as dry as the desert or you experience a stinging sensation that makes you feel like you've spent the last eight hours lost in a sandstorm, you might have a condition called dry eye.

About 40-million Americans are affected by dry eye and ocular surface diseases, according to the Schepens Eye Research Institute, an affiliate of Harvard Medical School. Many suffer from the symptoms without even realizing there's treatment.

The eye depends upon a flow of tears for consistent lubrication and protection. These tears are created from a combination of water, oil and mucus which are secreted by special glands located around the eye. An imbalance in this tear system can lead to inadequate eye lubrication, causing irritation or blurred vision. A person with dry eye may also produce excess tears, which are caused when the eye sends a distress signal through the nervous system for more lubrication. Since these tears are mostly water, they lack the lubricating qualities or composition of normal tears, failing to properly coat the eye's surface. Either way, a lack of quality tears can cause dry eye. If left untreated, this condition can damage the front surface of the eye and impair vision.

Inflammation is a hallmark of dry eye.

Reducing the inflammation on the surface of the eye and regulating the glands that produce tears is essential to effectively manage the condition.

Most people assume these symptoms

are a result of age. Dry eye is a part of the natural aging process, as a majority of people over the age 65 experience some dry eye symptoms.

But most people also assume there is no treatment for the discomfort. As a result, many sufferers reach for artificial tears or rewetting drops, hoping for immediate relief. Self-medicating, by using over-the-counter treatments, can delay diagnosis and effective therapy.

The results are often temporary as eye health is a systemic process and this inflammation needs to be addressed within the body.

There are a number of options available today for dry eye sufferers. Since diet affects eye health, some optometrists are directing patients to nutritional supplements containing omega-3 fatty acids, to manage symptoms.

possess more nutritional benefits.

Other nutrients found to help dry eye conditions include vitamin A, as retinyl palmitate, and vitamin E, as d-alpha tocopherol. Vitamin A is a fat-soluble (absorbed by the body with the help of fats) antioxidant shown to protect corneal surface health. Fat-soluble vitamin E is also thought to protect the cells of the eyes from damage caused by unstable molecules which break down healthy tissue. These compounds are found in a healthy diet and are important in stabilizing omega-3 fatty acid formulas. Green tea extract has also been shown to contain antioxidants for systemic and ocular tissues.

Since long-term use of fish oil may cause a vitamin E deficiency in some people, fish oil supplements containing vitamin E are ideal.

Daily supplements of flaxseed oil or fish oil, when used alone or in tandem with lubricating eye drops, appear to reduce dry eye symptoms, including burning, stinging, redness and intermittent visual disturbances, according to AllAboutVision.com.

Eye vitamins, such as EyePromise EZ Tears, contain nutrients including omega-3's, vitamin A, and vitamin E, to attack the cause of dry eye by improving the quality of the tears produced and provide rapid relief by soothing inflammation.

Omega -3 fatty acids are important for maintaining significant structural components of tissue cell membranes throughout the body and may help reduce inflammation that can contribute to dry eye syndrome. Supplements containing fish oil derived from wild fish, as a source of omega-3, are thought to

The first step toward relief is talking to an eye care professional about your symptoms and concerns.

After conducting a comprehensive examination, including tests to evaluate for dry eye, an optometrist or ophthalmologist can recommend the best course of action.

Friday, February 27, 2015 | Looking Forward | 5

Culture and experience

the big travel opportunities of 2015

(BPT) - Feeling tired of the hustle and bustle of metropolitan meccas when on vacation? You're not alone. Next year, travelers will choose smaller destinations and opportunities to immerse themselves in the local culture. As daily life is increasingly hectic, people will want to unplug and relax without the stressors of a big city.

In 2015, travelers will explore hidden gems across the country. Bing predicts that Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, both in Tennessee, and Savannah, Georgia, will be a few of the top travel destinations in 2015. The slower lifestyle people associate with the south may be a draw, as well as the unique cuisine and beautiful architecture. Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, is best known as the home to Dollywood,

yet offers so much more. Nestled in the Smoky Mountains, the mountain resort has a local population of just over 5,000, yet offers live music, comedy and dinner shows. Among larger cities, Bing predicts that Nashville and New Orleans will increase in popularity, as well.

Another top trend in 2015 will be a growth in services and experiences that help people live like locals. Many travelers feel that more intimate lodging accommodations, restaurants and music venues provide a more authentic taste of the destination. Booking homes, or even just a room, through companies such as Airbnb or VRBO has replaced hotels for many travelers. Millions of guests book on Airbnb for their travels. Not only is it often more affordable, but it also lets

them cook meals for themselves and get to know neighbors like a local resident.

Companies such as EatWith connect people with other travelers and locals who share a love for food. For a true taste of the city, visitors dine in a local's personal home, meeting new people and dining on truly local cuisine. EatWith is already in 150 locations worldwide and is continuing to grow with pop-up dinners in places ranging from Arizona to Kansas to California.

Consider traveling like a local as you make your travel plans for the coming year. Visit www.BingTrends.com for more 2015 predictions.

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6 | Looking Forward | Friday, February 27, 2015

More options than ever for

families needing elder care More Americans than ever before are now older than 65, and in just four more decades, for the first time in history, there will be more seniors in the U.S. than people younger than 18, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. Given those numbers, is it any surprise that many families wrestle with decisions for how to take care of aging parents, grandparents and other loved ones?

possible. Assisted living communities strive to provide an appropriate level of care while allowing residents to maintain as much independence as possible.

Seniors who are no longer able to live completely independently, but who do not need nursing home, Alzheimer's or dementia care, may find this type of arrangement works for them.

Respite/short-term care - This type of care provides

"Deciding how to take care of an aging loved one can be a challenging, emotionally wrenching experience," says Danielle Russell, vice president of operations and business development for Assisted Transition, a network of independent consultants that help families find elder care. "The good news is that as the population of elders has expanded, so have elder care options."

Just 20 years ago, families might have had to choose between putting a parent in a nursing home or having one younger family member quit a job to stay home and care for the parent. Today, options abound and it's important to know what's available before making such an important decision.

Russell offers some background on seven of the top types of senior care:

short-term breaks for families that may need elder care for a short time - a few hours, a day or a weekend, for example. Options can include an in-home skilled health assistant, an adult day program outside the home, or residential respite care facility.

Independent living communities - In these residential

communities, seniors can live by themselves with minimal assistance for certain tasks and needs. Elders with mild mobility issues or forgetfulness might do well in this type of environment.

Rehabilitation centers - A senior recovering from

a minor health issue may require extra care and therapy to regain the ability to live independently.

Rehabilitation centers provide care as well as occupational, physical or speech therapy.

Dementia care - Dementia is a progressive disorder

Assisted living communities - Seniors who require

assistance with daily activities such as dressing, eating or bathing may still wish to live as independently as

that weakens memory, impairs judgment and diminishes mental abilities. Elders experiencing dementia may need an increasing level of care.

Start Living a Carefree Lifestyle The Supportive Living Program is available in Illinois to seniors 65 or older who need help maintaining their independence regardless of their financial resources

Dementia care can occur inside the home or in a care facility.

Alzheimer's communities - A progressive, incurable

cognitive disorder, Alzheimer's affects memory and mental abilities. Patients usually require a high level of care with everyday tasks, but may be in physically good health. Alzheimer's communities specialize in caring for patients who require this high level of care.

Skilled nursing homes - Licensed by the state in which they operate, skilled nursing homes provide the highest level of medical care outside a hospital. These round-the-clock residential facilities care for patients who require a high level of care, such as those who are bed-ridden or suffer from chronic health issues that require 24-hour access to medical aid.

Even the most diligent families may have difficulty sorting through all the elder care options and decisions they face during the stress-filled process of choosing care. Many seek advice and expert assistance, such as from Assisted Transition, that can help ensure their loved ones receive the best possible care for his or her needs. The organization offers information, resources and free placement services to families looking for senior care and housing options.

Assisted Transition provides referrals to assisted living facilities, nursing homes, residential care homes, senior housing and other industry resources. To find a consultant near you, visit www.assistedtransition.com.

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Friday, February 27, 2015 | Looking Forward | 7

5 questions you should ask your pharmacist

(BPT) - A visit to the pharmacy can be about more than just picking up prescriptions or supplies for the medicine cabinet. It can actually be an important, and convenient, time to ask your pharmacist key questions that could impact your health.

effects. If a prescription medicine doesn't seem to be working in the proper time frame, you should let your doctor know. Remember that sudden discontinuation of some medications, without proper professional advice, can be costly to your health.

Dr. Andria Fetterman, a faculty member in South University Savannah's School of Pharmacy, encourages people to use their pharmacist as a resource for information about everything from prescription medication to lifestyle changes. Fetterman says there are five key questions you should frequently ask your pharmacist.

How long should I take an over the counter medication before I call my doctor?

Over-the-counter medicines can provide relief for a number of ailments, but sometimes you need to see a doctor either for a prescription or a correct diagnosis of your symptoms. Fetterman says your pharmacist can help guide you when you're not sure if it is time to see a doctor.

What can I expect from this medication?

Fetterman says whether you're picking up an overthe-counter remedy or a prescription, you should feel free to ask your pharmacist what to expect from the medication.

"Many medications have potential side effects that you should be aware of before you take them," advises Fetterman. "It may be something as mild as a little stomach discomfort or drowsiness, but knowing what to expect will help you handle any potential side effects. Also, knowing what to expect could keep you from blaming any new, unrelated symptoms on your medication."

You should also ask how long it will take for your medication to make you feel better. Fetterman says most antibiotics should have you feeling better in three to five days, but an anti-depressant may need to be in your system for three weeks before you begin to feel its

"A pharmacist can give you advice on how quickly you should see symptom relief with an over-the-counter medication," says Fetterman. "Many times, people will treat themselves too long with over-the-counter medicine or will switch from one product to another looking for relief, and many times don't go to a physician when they need to."

How do I manage my condition?

"When someone leaves the doctor's office after a diagnosis, they may be scared or shell-shocked," Fetterman explains. "There may be questions about medication or daily management that they didn't think to ask. That's where a pharmacist can help."

Fetterman uses Type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure as examples. "A pharmacist can counsel you about weight loss, healthy eating and ways to promote cardiovascular activity. With proper disease

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Do these medicines mix?

Fetterman says it is important to ask a pharmacist about whether any new medication will mix well with other things you are already taking.

"Dietary supplements, herbal supplements and overthe-counter medicines can interact or interfere with prescription medications. When you are having a prescription filled, your pharmacist should ask you about all other medications that you're taking. If you're on prescription medication, check with the pharmacist before beginning any new over-the-counter supplements or medication to make sure it is safe."

What should I do about my persistent, minor symptoms?

Fetterman says you should never hesitate to ask a pharmacist about a persistent, minor symptom that might be bothering you.

"If you're having a non-specific or persistent symptom that you think is minor, you should still ask your pharmacist about it," says Fetterman. "A pharmacist can recommend an over-the-counter medicine that may relieve symptoms, but can also advise you to see a doctor about your symptom rather than ignoring it.

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8 | Looking Forward | Friday, February 27, 2015

Choosing a Retirement Community Ask most seniors where they would prefer to spend their golden years and they will say they would prefer to remain in their own homes as long as possible. But ask those same seniors and they will tell you they aren’t sure how they would manage if they could no longer care for themselves or what are the options available to them.

For those people planning ahead for tomorrow and the unknowns associated with life, Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRC) may offer the best of the best. With options ranging from independent living to 24-hour nursing care, Continuing Care Retirement Communities are the answer for an increasing number of people planning for the future. For those sold on the idea of a Continuing Care Retirement Community, the following steps might make the process easier:

Prioritize

Make a list of those things that matter most to you. For many people location is a key factor.

The average person lives within fifty miles of their birthplace. If you enjoy a rural lifestyle, or if proximity to family is important, or you enjoy the sights of the city or the atmosphere of life in a university town, then add it to your priority list. The list can be as specific as you want but will go a long way in narrowing your search.

Research

You will be much more up to speed on terms, jargon and options if you do a little homework before setting out. Many consumers will limit their search to not-for-profit organizations or those with a particular sponsorship or affiliation. Spend some time visiting with friends and then log on to the Internet. There is a wealth of information available. Most retirement communities have websites and many share photos, list amenities, services and contact information.

Accredited?

Some continuing care retirement communities are accredited by the Commission for the Accreditation of Rehabilitative Facilities (CARF).

Accreditation indicates to the public that the community has the financial resources necessary to meet the present and projected needs, has knowledgeable administrative staff, and provides sufficient financial information to residents and applicants. It not only provides assurance of quality and integrity, but it offers the public a standard for comparisons in evaluating retirement communities.

Visit

The retirement decision may be one of the biggest decisions you will make in your life. Take the time to visit the communities, talk with the staff, take a tour, and meet the residents. Many of the communities offer educational/entertainment

programs open to the public. This is a great way to experience the community first-hand.

Fees

Get a clear understanding of pricing and fees.

Most communities have an entrance fee based on the size of the apartment/duplex and offer a refundable portion over a set number of years.

The monthly fees vary widely from community to community, level of care and services and amenities. Also, ask for the community’s history of fee increases and a copy of their most recent financial audit. A reputable community will have this information readily available and will be more than willing to share it.

What if I outlive my resources?

Many not-for-profit retirement communities have a charitable fund to provide life care to those who outlive their resources. Other types of retirement housing may discharge an individual when they exhaust their resources or require additional care.

Knowing up front what you can expect when the time comes will go a long way in providing you peace of mind and future security.

There is a myriad of retirement living options available to consumers today. Taking the time to research and select the one that best meets your interests today and your needs of tomorrow is time well spent.

OAK CREST DeKalb Area Retirement Center www.oakcrestdekalb.org

“We found a home we value…”

The view from our two bedroom balcony apartment can’t be beat. To say we have it all might be a bit of an understatement. You see, when we were ready to make the retirement decision, we knew we wanted to find a Jim & Bev Gillett community that felt like home and would offer great living accommodations but would also provide a full continuum of care and services. The reality of life is that at some point one or both of us may need some kind of care and support, and we wanted to be sure when that time came we could be together. We also were conscious of the costs associated with retirement living. After visiting other places near our home in Maple Park, we found the costs associated with the care and services didn’t translate into value. So, when we stopped in at Oak Crest we just knew we had come home. Not only were we impressed with the surroundings, the apartments, and services; we found an apartment we love at a price we love even more. Come see for yourself. It really comes down to this: life at Oak Crest translates into value.

Jim & Bev Gillett, Residents since 2012

For more information call (815) 756-8461 or visit us on the web at www.oakcrestdekalb.org

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Friday, February 27, 2015 | Looking Forward | 9

Umbrella insurance:

Are you adequately covered?

(BPT) - If you have auto insurance, you probably think you have all the coverage you need for yourself, your spouse and your teenage drivers.

Likewise, your homeowners insurance will take care of repair costs in case the pipes burst or there's a fire. But what happens if you get sued?

If your 17-year-old son is involved in a car wreck that seriously injures a neighbor, or if a child gets hurt in the backyard swimming pool, you could face a mountain of medical and legal expenses. If those expenses exceed the coverage provided by your insurance policies, you would be responsible for covering the remaining costs.

In these situations, an umbrella policy can be a lifesaver. Umbrella insurance is a supplemental personal liability policy that provides coverage above and beyond the liability coverage provided in your homeowners and auto policies. An umbrella policy shields your existing and future assets including wages, an inheritance or other windfalls. It covers you for accidents on your property or car accidents caused by you or your dependents.

"Many people don't understand what an umbrella policy can offer," says Charles Valinotti, a senior vice president with insurer QBE North America. "You don't have to be wealthy or have a great deal of assets to benefit from umbrella coverage. It can protect you and your family from many different kinds of hazards."

After your auto or homeowners liability coverage is exhausted, an umbrella policy is applied to cover outstanding expenses, Valinotti says. For example, if you are liable for $400,000 worth of damage and your auto insurance pays a maximum $300,000 in medical expenses per accident, the umbrella policy would pick up the remaining $100,000.

Umbrella insurance is similar to homeowners insurance, Valinotti says. If a guest winds up hospitalized after dining at your home due to your negligence and sues you for $350,000, though your homeowner's policy only covers the first $300,000 in losses, the umbrella coverage would take care of the remaining $50,000.

Since it is a form of personal insurance, an umbrella policy will not protect you from lawsuits related to your business. It also will not cover accidents caused by high-risk activities like drag racing.

Umbrella policies typically provide from $1 million to $5 million of additional coverage. To purchase an umbrella policy, you must have insurance that provides a specific amount of maximum payout. So you may need to increase your auto or homeowners coverage to qualify for an umbrella plan.

In some locations, a policy providing $1 million in coverage will run about $350. The actual cost will depend on the value of the policy, your location and other factors. Your insurance agent can give you a quote.

"When you consider what it offers, the cost is extremely reasonable," Valinotti says. "Be sure you speak with your agent to see if an umbrella policy makes sense for your personal situation."

Do you know the stages of the life insurance cycle?

(BPT) - Many of life's different stages offer challenges and rewards - whether you're starting out on your own, raising a family, focusing on your career or preparing for a rewarding retirement. However, while each life stage is unique, making sure your loved ones are cared for financially is something that needs to be addressed along the way.

Early career Surprisingly, when you're young and at your healthiest is the ideal time to get your first life insurance contract.

Your family and your financial future are counting on you continuing to earn a living. Life insurance will ensure your loved ones aren't left dealing with your financial burdens if you pass away. Because you are young and healthy, a basic policy may be the most affordable depending on your needs.

Growing families (and income) Young children at home can bring untold joy to a family. Unfortunately, this idyllic picture can be easily

shaken if an untimely death occurs. Term life insurance can offer affordable coverage for you and your loved ones. Term insurance can be easily enhanced with additional options (called riders) to ensure your protection stays adequate as your family grows and your earning potential increases.

Legacy and retirement planning As you enter your peak earning years and get closer to retirement, you will likely face more health risks. Converting from term coverage to permanent life insurance is a way to ensure lifelong financial protection. Permanent insurance is guaranteed to be with you for the rest of your life as long as you continue to pay the premium and your provider stays in business. This is one of the many reasons you should look for an organization with a track record of financial strength and stability. Permanent insurance contracts also allow you to begin to plan your legacy as they give you the option to include a favorite charity or cause as a beneficiary.

Retirement As you enter your later years, you are now ready to take advantage of all those years of planning for retirement. Make sure you take time to meet with a financial professional to ensure your retirement needs haven't changed and that you still have the right financial plan in place. These years are also time to focus on the legacy you want to leave behind for your children and grandchildren, as well as organizations that you support financially.

Life insurance, like life itself, has many stages and options for you to consider. It is an invaluable tool to ensure that those you leave behind are financially protected. It can also have many additional benefits to you and your loved ones beyond the basic death benefits. Taking the time to obtain professional advice about protecting those you care about is an important first step to knowing your best options.

10 | Looking Forward | Friday, February 27, 2015

Diabetes Discussion: Tips for Managing Your Diabetes

(BPT) - Diabetes is a complex disease affecting more than 29 million people in the United States. Although there is no cure, patients with diabetes see better results when the disease is closely managed through lifestyle changes and medication. Along with making good choices about healthy eating and physical activity, patients living with diabetes should discuss blood sugar monitoring, medication, and options for taking their medication with their health care providers.

Betty Krauss, RDN, a Certified Diabetes Educator (CDE) with Spectrum Health Medical Group, talks diabetes management and suggests what patients can discuss with their doctors at their next appointment.

What is diabetes?

Krauss: Diabetes occurs when the body does not properly use and/or produce enough insulin. Insulin is the hormone needed to convert sugar, starches, and other food into energy. There are 2 types of diabetes: type 1, in which the body makes little to no insulin, and type 2, in which the body produces too little insulin or cannot properly use the insulin that is produced. When the body does not properly use or produce insulin, blood sugar can reach levels outside of healthy ranges. It's important to manage your diabetes because high blood sugar can damage your body and lead to other health problems if left untreated.

What impact does lifestyle - like healthy eating and physical activity have on diabetes?

Krauss: Balancing both lifestyle changes with the proper medicine is important for diabetes management. Building a diabetesfriendly meal plan can help you understand and manage carbohydrates, sugars, and fats and manage your weight. Physical activity can help your body become more sensitive to insulin so it can work more efficiently and helps your muscles burn sugar for energy, which

removes sugar from the blood. Additionally, careful monitoring is key for diabetes patients to ensure their blood sugar remains within a desired range.

What can patients with diabetes do to manage their disease beyond lifestyle changes?

Krauss: In addition to healthy eating, physical activity, and blood sugar monitoring, medication is an important part of managing diabetes. There are a variety of treatment options, and patients should work closely with their health care providers to ensure their treatment plan is helping them reach their blood sugar goals.

What medication options are available to patients with diabetes?

Krauss: Patients should work with their health care provider to customize a diabetes treatment plan that includes the right medication for reaching their blood sugar goals. Typically, these options include an insulin or noninsulin medication, and may be pills taken by mouth or injections given under the skin.

What options do patients with diabetes have for administering injectable medications?

Krauss: For patients with diabetes who require daily injections of medication, diabetes management can initially be uncomfortable.

In fact, one study revealed that 83 percent of people are somewhat or very much bothered by needles when they first start injecting.

Thankfully, advancements in technology mean that there are options for these patients.

Today, most insulin and noninsulin injectable medications are available in pen devices, which help patients by providing accurate and reliable dosing. Additional important advancements have been made to reduce the length and thickness of needles, which are

associated with the pain and anxiety that can be caused by injections.

We have come a long way since the world's first pen needle was launched in 1985 by Novo Nordisk, a world leader in diabetes care. More recently, Novo Nordisk launched NovoFine(R) Plus, an ultra-short, ultra-thin needle - the width of two human hairs - designed to allow for better flow of medication and for less pain.

Do all needles fit on all delivery devices?

Krauss: Some needles, like NovoFine(R) Plus, are universal, which means they will fit all currently available insulin pens. But patients should choose their pen needle carefully because not all needles will fit on all pens. I encourage patients with diabetes to talk with their pharmacist to ensure they are getting the best pen needle for their pen.

What should patients with diabetes discuss with their health care providers?

Krauss: In addition to appropriate medication, it is also important to discuss how the medication is taken. For example, if daily injections are needed, using a pen with the smallest possible needle may cause less pain.

It is also important to talk about blood sugar monitoring, so patients understand how often and what time of day they need to check their blood sugar, as this can vary from person to person.

Lastly, lifestyle is important to successful diabetes management. Patients should discuss healthy eating and physical activity so their health care providers can advise how best to implement physical activity into daily routines, as well as how to maintain a healthy diet.

Friday, February 27, 2015 | Looking Forward | 11

The Seven Warning Signs of

Varicose Veins

According to Stanford University, approximately 40 million Americans suffer from varicose veins, which is a symptom of vein disease. In fact, by age 60, about 70% of women and 40% of men will suffer from painful legs and vein disease, which can lead to serious, chronic and debilitating health problems if left untreated.

1. Leg pain, aching or cramping 2. Burning or itching of your skin 3. Leg or ankle swelling 4. A “heavy� feeling in your legs 5. Skin discoloration or texture changes 6. Restless legs 7. Open wounds or sores, such as bleeding ankle ulcers

How Does Venous Disease Relate to Varicose Veins?

“Advanced Technologies Can Make a Difference in People’s Lives.�

When veins are functionally normally, tiny valves open and close, keeping the blood flowing upward back to the heart. But these valves can fail, causing the blood to flow backward and pool inside the vein, often result in bulging, painful varicose veins. The failure of these tiny valves is called venous insufficiency, also known as vein disease.

Do You Have These Symptoms of Varicose Veins?

If you have any of these most common symptoms, it’s important to be screened or examined for venous disease. Even spider veins, which are smaller and look like red or blue spider veins, could indicate that you have vein disease. You should be aware of any of these symptoms:

What Should You Do?

Only an ultrasound exam performed by an accredited ultrasonographer can evaluate your venous function, locate your problems, then recommend which minimally invasive treatment will be most appropriate for you. “I have been extremely pleased with the results of my vein surgery. My legs now look like that of a 16-year-old and I am now a senior citizen.� – V.N.

Dr. Rimas Gilvydis, founder and medical director of Gilvydis Vein Clinic in Sycamore said, “I wanted to be an interventionalist to directly intervene in the disease process using advanced technologies. I saw how it made a dramatic, positive difference in people’s lives.

Making that difference was why I had become a doctor in the first place.�

Before

After

He added, “When endovenous ablation for venous disease was first introduced, I learned about this procedure. I also learned advanced catheter skills as a neuroradiologist and interventional radiologist. I had varicose veins when I was in high school, so I know the pain, discomfort and embarrassment of having vein disease.�

Bothered by leg pain and swelling?

You may have varicose veins.

Attend a FREE Varicose Vein Screening.

Space is limited! Call now to schedule your screening! See our website for upcoming dates.

2127 Midlands Court, Suite 102 Sycamore, IL 60178 815-656-4861 www.GilvydisVein.com

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815-656-4861 No doctor referral required Most insurance accepted