Boomers Gen 50+ - Spring 2016

CAREGIVERS...IS IT TIME? Page 3

ADDRESSING HEARING LESS

Generation 50+

Page 7

SPRING 2016

Living better Page 4

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GENERATION 50+

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GENERATION 50+

Have recurring gastrointestinal symptoms?

Don’t wait to tell your doctor Many people find it difficult to discuss gastrointestinal problems with their doctors, yet such issues are far more common than you might realize. rt, according to a new survey.

Three-quarters of IBS sufferers surveyed reported feeling frustrated and/or depressed according to a new survey from the American Gastroenterological Association (AGA). And over half (52 percent) of all respondents said their symptoms were extremely or very bothersome -- so much so that they reported they would give up caffeine (55 percent), their cell phone or Internet connection (47 percent), or even sex (40 percent) for one month for the chance to feel one month of relief.

The “IBS in America” survey, commissioned by the AGA and conducted with the financial support of Ironwood Pharmaceuticals, Inc. and Allergan plc, reveals many insights that could prove useful to both patients and doctors. For example, a majority of sufferers said they wait more than a year before even talking with a doctor about their symptoms.

“Talking about bowel function habits is never easy, but it is concerning to see how long the respondents in this survey often

waited to talk to a doctor. There may not be a cure for IBS, but there are treatments.

Patients need to see a doctor, and doctors need to be proactive in bringing up this topic in conversation with patients,” says Dr. Michael Camilleri, president of the AGA. The AGA recommends three steps that can improve doctor-patient communication: • Speak Up Early: The study revealed that many sufferers take the advice of friends or family without speaking to a doctor or attempt to self-medicate with over-the-counter products, without success.

Instead of suffering in silence or taking advice from people who aren’t healthcare professionals, talk to your physician about recurring abdominal pain and bowel symptoms.

• Speak Up Completely: Instead of just saying “I have constipation” or “I have diarrhea,” tell a doctor about the full extent of symptoms, how they impact your life, and what approaches you have already been tried to manage them. ➧DOCTOR, Page 5

(c) Getty Images

Jayne DeHaan Senior Real Estate Specialist

Reaching out to caregivers: How do you know when you’re over the edge?

These are the issues that can add to home caregivers’ stress when you’re taking care of an elderly mom or dad. Often it’s a combination of issues on this list that leads to a family deciding against home care and in favor of assisted living. Kathy Stewart, Aegis Living’s Vice President of Nursing and Care offers some common sense advice

to help you make the difficult decision.

When an elderly loved on is in immediate need of care, we often see families scrambling to pull together many documents required by the state of Washington for admission to respite 1. Incontinence – If you’re frustrated with a loved one who’s lost control of bladder function, you should know there are strategies that can help.

2. Managing Medications – How do you reduce them safely? Certain kinds of medications if taken at night can make the day better.

3. Managing Difficult Behaviors – Is your loved one easily angered? Does he or she foster feelings of paranoia? There are strategies to help.

4. Nutritional Support –Is your elderly loved one exhibiting unhealthy eating habits? Are you having trouble getting them to eat right? ➧REACHING, Page 5

CRS, CNE, ALHS, SRES, ASP, CDPE & Remax Hall of Fame

Managing the financial and emotional challenges facing those over 50 when selling or buying a new home. *Ask about my 30-day guarantee.

Your Neighborhood Specialist Since 1976 Jayne DeHaan ladyj@jaynedehaan.com • www.JayneDeHaan.com • (206) 963-3877

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GENERATION 50+

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Community safety: what to know in today’s changing times Older generations may recall a time when doors were left unlocked. While that practice may no longer seem wise alongside today’s headline news, you should have an expectation of safety and security in your community.

In these changing times, here are some things to know and consider about your family’s safety.

Work and School Safety

Does your place of work have a safety plan? Does your child’s school? No one wants to live in fear of the day that a worst case scenario will occur, but thinking about these matters can help protect workers and students in the event of emergency.

Consider being part of efforts to create or amend actionable safety plans for the places your family spends time.

The Department of Homeland security offers free safety resources and tips for employers, workers, schools, parents and

students.

Neighborhood Safety

If you’re not already friendly with your neighbors, it’s a good idea to develop a rapport with those who live nearby.

Beyond the social benefits of having friends a stone’s throw from your front door, neighbors are a natural safety net. They can keep an eye on your home when you’re not home, noticing any unfamiliar vehicles or people on your property.

On a more formal level, consider forming or joining a neighborhood watch organization. A collective stake in the community can serve as an effective crime deterrent.

National and Global Safety

Individuals may not feel like they have strong roles when it comes to safety at the national and global level, but having a deeper understanding of the associated issues can alleviate anxieties and

provide a nuanced look at the factors behind such threats.

For example, those interested in global terrorism can seek out new books like “Demand

by Terror,” the second book by Abayomi Nurain Mumuni, a fellow at the American Society of Criminology. Mumuni’s second book focuses on terrorist demands. He uses case studies to build an argument in favor of negotiation strategies.

More broadly, Mumuni’s books seek to raise awareness and understanding of what terrorism is and the extent of its existence. “Terrorism will not stay away from any part of the world simply because prospective victims do not know about it,” he says.

Your family’s safety is likely of the utmost importance to you. Take time to consider the ways you can stay safe at home and wherever you go.

(StatePoint)

4 Tips to live better in retirement The conceptions and realities of retirement have changed a great deal over the past several decades, giving many seniors misgivings about the future. But your golden years can be happy, healthy and productive, say experts.

“For many individuals, confusion, fear and an overwhelming sense of powerlessness accompany the prospect of growing old in America. The good news is that we have power to address these concerns,” says Scott Page, author of the new book “It’s Never Too Late: Getting Older, Wiser, and Worry-Free in our Golden Years.”

Are you retired or approaching the end of your working life? Are you concerned about an older parent or loved one? Here, Page offers expert tips on living better:

Living Ideas

Reducing housing expenses can have an extra upside. For example, downsizing your empty nest offers you the benefit of

less house to maintain. Moving to a region of the country cheaper than your current area may take you somewhere sunnier, warmer and better suited for aging.

Another popular way to live more frugally is to consider taking on a roommate. “Co-living arrangements like the ‘The Golden Girls’ are becoming more popular with single or widowed seniors. It helps save money and can be beneficial for socialization and support,” says Page.

Make Money

You can rake in extra income that doesn’t feel like work. Review your talents and hobbies. Are you an excellent baker, a talented woodworker or musician?

“Seniors often have a lot of time on their hands, and they may be able to transform hobbies or interests into a way to make a little money,” says Page, who points out that such activities can also be an excellent ➧ 4 TIPS, Page 5

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GENERATION 50+

Retirement has changed over the years ➧ 4 TIPS, FROM Page 4 way to stay engaged and active, keeping minds and bodies vibrant.

Saving Tips

Don’t be shy about using the age card.

After all, you have worked hard for it.

Senior discounts are available at restaurants, stores, on travel, adult education classes and gym memberships, and sites like Restaurant.com or Groupon have special bargain days for seniors.

You can also save by eliminating unnecessary expenses. For example -- do you still need that landline telephone? Can you bundle certain services to help reduce costs?

Do an inventory of your possessions to determine which objects to keep and which to discard or sell. Free worksheets, available at scottpage.com/free-tools, can help you

make smart decisions.

When is the right time ➧REACHING, FROM Page 3 care, assisted living or memory care. The stressful scramble often hits at a time when family anxiety is already high and there may be misplaced documents and delays with physician and attorney offices in off hours.

Speak up and early ➧ DOCTOR, FROM Page 3 • Speak Up Often: Tell a doctor if symptoms return despite treatment efforts.

Your doctor can then assess alternatives.

Full survey results and more information about IBS can be found at ibsinamerica. gastro.org.

If you suffer from chronic abdominal pain and bowel symptoms, remember, you’re not alone.

Everything you need for fast admission is included in the Red Crisis File that you can pick up at Aegis of Queen Anne on Galer (223 W. Galer) or call them at 206285-1106.

Kathy Stewart R.N. Aegis Living V.P. Nursing Care

Connect with Friends

Consider planning meals with a support network.

“Maybe Sally takes Monday nights, Judy takes Wednesday nights and Sarah takes Friday nights,” says Page. “Cooking for more than one person encourages community, and can be cost-effective if everyone is sharing in the responsibility.”

Maintain an active social media presence online to stay connected to friends and family. Those with the same interests as you are just a mouse click away.

More information about the book can be found at www.scottpage.com.

With smart strategies you can free yourself from worry about aging, while getting wiser over time.

(StatePoint)

“IBS is the seventh most common diagnosis made by all physicians and the most common diagnosis made by gastroenterologists,” points out Camilleri.

The sooner you seek professional help, the sooner you and your doctor can discuss all of your options for managing your symptoms.

(StatePoint)

Seniors Real Estate Specialists — SRES®

ASSISTED LIVING IS LIKE DANCING. YOU NEED THE RIGHT PARTNER. Partner. It’s such a simple word. But, most would say, it’s the most important word when you’re in need of Assisted Living Services.

It’s certainly how we see it at Sagebrook Senior Living – like a great dance partner we know when to lead and when to follow. We’re always helpful, but not obtrusive, so you get exactly what you need, when you need it.

1710 NW 57th Street • Seattle • WA 98107 • (206) 789-1900 www.sagebrookseniorliving.com

Partner. It’s such a simple word. But, most would say, it’s the most

Every transition is an opportunity, regardless of your stage in life. With the right important preparation, a new home provide the fresh start and word when you’re in need of can Assisted Living Services. continual enjoyment you’ve been working towards. A Seniors Real Estate Specialist® has both the education real Senior estate experience to serve as It’s certainly how we see it atand Sagebrook Living – like a great dance your trusted advisor through the unique financial and lifestyle transitions involved in relocating selling family partner we or know when toyour lead and when tohome. follow. We’re always helpful, but Leslie M. Lucas Real Estate Consultant SRES®, CRS, ABR, ASP, Relocation Coldwell Banker Bain Associates 206-501-7473 leslielucas@cbbain.com

Amy Greenberg SRES® RE/MAX Metro Realty, Inc. 2312 Eastlake Ave E., Seattle 98102 206-255-9388 amy@amygreenberg.com 5 Star Agent 2012-2015

5

not obtrusive, so you get exactly what you need, when you need it.

Call (206) 789-1900 now to schedule your complimentary lunch and tour. And come see what steps we can take together.

Are you an SRES® Broker?

Advertise here!

Contact Carolyn at ppcspecialprojects@nwlink.com 425-922-3040

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GENERATION 50+

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Home design tips for Baby Boomers There are about 76.4 million Baby Boomers in the US, according to the Population Reference Bureau. As this population ages, it will become important that features on their houses promote safety, are easy-to-maintain, and last a long time.

Whether building from the ground up or remodeling a current home, take “aging-inplace” into consideration every step of the way. Here are some great projects to consider with strong payback.

A Better Basement

When building a new home, choose your foundation carefully. Not only is an uninsulated basement a major source of heat loss, but it’s throwing away potential space that can enhance your life. A “liveable basement” can be designated as a “grandkid zone,” an at-home office or crafting workshop.

You can use a pre-cast insulated concrete foundation system, such those from Superior Walls, to create an energy-efficient damp-proof basement. This foundation will help reduce utility bills for long-term savings. Reinforced concrete walls create a permanent barrier against water, and pre-engineered access for wiring or plumbing features are a key element to whatever vision you have for this subterranean space.

First Floor Privacy

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Many seniors opt to spend more of their time at home on the easy-to-navigate ground floor. But don’t compromise privacy in pursuit of accessibility.

Privacy windows can alleviate concerns you have about neighbors seeing you go about your business. For example, those from Hy-Lite are offered in numerous styles and designs, including opaque decorative glass, acrylic block and true glass block windows.

Silkscreen glass designs can complement the overall style of the home. From your master suite to your bathroom to the main rooms of your home, avoid prying eyes with this crucial component of stylish first floor living.

Safe, Comfortable Bathrooms

As mobility and coordination decline, slips and falls can make bathrooms a hazardous place. Think of the years ahead by seeking out bathroom features that are ADA compliant.

“Taller toilets that are easier to rise from, pedestal sinks that allow wheelchairs and walkers access, and walk-in tubs that promote easy entries and exits, are all bathroom features people may need as they age,” says Jean Dimeo, a Certified Aging in Place Specialist.

Brands like Mansfield Plumbing are accommodating the boomer population by offering selections of SmartHeight toilets, pedestal, under counter and wall mounted sinks. A popular product, Restore walk-in tubs, come with whirlpool and inline heater options to sooth aching muscles and joints. With many high-design fixtures and fittings available, a safe bathroom does not need to be just a utilitarian one.

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➧ BOOMERS, Page 7

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GENERATION 50+

New study showing hearing aids reduce risk of cognitive decline Is wake-up call to address hearing loss now

Hearing loss is the most common chronic health condition affecting older adults. Despite numerous studies showing the link between hearing loss and the risk of cognitive decline, less than 75% of people with hearing loss who could benefit from hearing aids use them. A new study may provide the wake-up call that prompts them to finally seek help for their hearing loss.

The study, published in the prestigious Journal of the American Geriatrics Society, found no difference in the rate of cognitive decline between people with no reported hearing loss and people with hearing loss who used hearing aids. By contrast, cognitive decline is significantly accelerated for people who have hearing loss and don’t use hearing aids.

“For the first time we are seeing evidence that hearing aids are a prevention against accelerated cognitive decline associated with hearing loss,” says Dr. Ashley Al-Izzi of Northgate Hearing Services in Seattle.

“Researchers agree that cognitive decline is likely related to the lack of social interaction that older adults have because of their ➧ HEARING, Page 10

Better hearing by design.

Amy Wolf, Au.D. Doctor of Audiology

Ashley Al-Izzi, Au.D. Doctor of Audiology

Shaeleen Fagre, Au.D. Doctor of Audiology

Our experienced staff of hearing care professionals is here for you.

At Northgate Hearing Services we’re dedicated to helping our patients achieve a better quality of life through better hearing.

Northgate Hearing Services’ staff of hearing care professionals have been bringing the best possible hearing care to this area for nearly 30 years. We will work with you to find the hearing solution that best fits your individual needs and budget. Call us today and you will see why a visit to Northgate Hearing Services is the first step toward improved hearing.

3-DAY SPECIAL EVENTS

March 15 - 17 | April 19 - 21 | May 17 - 19 A walk-in tub, pedestal sink, and raised-height toilet are key bathroom safety features.

Designs that last through aging ➧ BOOMERS, FROM Page 6

Durable Roof

When choosing a roof for over your home, seek out long-term durability without compromising beauty. Slate and shake polymer roof products from brands like DaVinci Roofscapes are low-maintenance, offer lifetime limited warranties, and come in a variety of color options that have the authentic look of natural materials. Impact- and fire- resistant, these hardworking roofs offer boomers both peace-of-mind and long-term value.

By upgrading key home features during construction and remodeling efforts, aging-inplace is not only possible, it can be preferable.

(StatePoint)

Call today to reserve an appointment for your: • FREE Consultation • FREE Product Listening Demonstration • Special 7-Day Product Trial Offer • 0% Financing Available

Call 206-925-3185 www.northgatehearing.com

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GENERATION 50+

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Antique Appraisals, Restoration & Purchasing Laszlo is a certified appraiser and has been working with antiques and collectibles for 28 years in the Greater Seattle area.

He is shown appraising an antique Chinese export porcelain bowl made for the European market.

Call Today: 206-313-0990 Seattle Decorative Art Restoration Services SeattleAntiqueRestoration.com

A few of my favorite things Mention downsizing and anxiety, stress and discomfort rise. It doesn’t need to be that way. All forms of downsizing include reducing the amount of “stuff” you have. You might be staying in place, moving to a smaller house or condo, or moving to a retirement community or continuing care community. Either way you’ll want to reduce by giving, donating or tossing some of what you have.

For most people, your children don’t want what you don’t want. They have different tastes or style, already have a furnished home of their own, or live too far away to make shipping practical. That leaves giving to people outside your family, holding an estate sale, or donating to a charity or nonprofit.

Then your job becomes what to cull. The memories evoked from the many objects, gifts, and memorabilia can be overwhelming. Take it one step at a time and you’ll get through it and feel much lighter at the end.

Suppose you have a collection of decorative sculptures that fill a display cabinet or bookcase. Choose your favorite 2 or 3 to keep. The rest can be sold (e-bay or craigslist), given as gifts, or donated for auction or charity. Too many sets of dishes to keep? One place setting drilled and attached to a metal “stem” makes a lovely garden art “flower”.

Take jewelry you’ll never wear to a local jewelry artist to have it remade into a piece you will wear, or sell it for the value of the gold, silver or jewels.

Photos can be scanned and loaded into a digital photo frame for a continuous slideshow. Frame a few of your favorites and archive the rest or dispose of the ones your family members don’t want.

A well-loved but never used article of clothing can be remade into something beautiful and useful. Wedding dresses make lovely pillow covers for your bed. Neckties can be made into a medallion for the center of a quilt. A cashmere or fine wool sweater makes a ➧ THINGS, Page 10

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GENERATION 50+

FINANCE

Do you need long-term care in your future?

Most people who are in their 40’s aren’t anticipating that they will need long-term care in the near future. But serious illnesses can pop up unexpectedly, and there’s no question that long-term care can be extremely expensive.

In 2010, Mill Creek residents Linda and Scott Strandjord, who are clients of The Private Client Group of U.S. Bank, were sitting down with a U.S. Bancorp Investments Financial Advisor, Lisa Hunter-Roberts, to review their insurance coverage and financial plan.

“We did full financial planning for them,” Hunter-Roberts remembers. “We covered their retirement assets, banking

LONG - TERM

Care

it could in fact happen. You just have to do it. Just to protect your assets.”

The Strandjords are not alone. Nearly 70 percent of Americans turning 65 will need long-term care at some point in their

For U.S. Bancorp Investments: Investment products and services are available through U.S. Bancorp Investments, the marketing name for U.S. Bancorp Investments, Inc., member FINRA and

SIPC, an investment adviser and a brokerage subsidiary of U.S. Bancorp and affiliate of U.S. Bank.

Insurance products are available through various affiliated non-bank insurance agencies, which are U.S. Bancorp subsidiaries and affiliates of U.S. Bank.

Products may not be available in all states.

CA Insurance License# OE24641. Policies are underwritten by unaffiliated insurance companies and may not be available in all states.

By Mary Justice, Washington State Market Leader of The Private Client Reserve of U.S. Bank in Seattle and Dorothy Mitchel, U.S. Bancorp Investments, Inc. Division Manager in Everett, Washington.

FAMILY RESOURCE HOME CARE statements and insurance policies.”

Lisa recommended the Strandjord’s increase the amount Scott was investing in a disability policy he had through his work as chief financial officer for a large company in the Northwest … and also invest in a long-term care insurance policy.

Linda remembers she and Scott kind of shook their heads at Hunter-Robert’s advice, a little in awe of what she said.

“Here he is, a CFO, very wise in the ways of money,” Linda said. “But the truth is, these high-powered executives don’t have time to spend thinking about themselves.”

So the couple followed Hunter-Roberts’ recommendations and purchased a longterm care policy and increased the policy Scott had through work.

Then everything changed. No one anticipated that Scott would suffer a massive left hemispherical stroke at the age of 56, and more than a year later, is still in need of continuous care. But because of the health care policies they have in place, the Strandjord’s are able to support themselves.

Linda is caring for Scott in the comfort of their home and can hire outside help to provide relief when needed. Their income is less than when Scott was working, but Linda says the policies are covering all needs.

“When you make a fair amount of money, it’s sort of inconceivable to not be bringing anything home. It’s something you can’t wrap your head around,” she said.

“It could be an accident or an illness. No one wants to believe it can happen. But by purchasing insurance, you understand that

lives, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. And in 2012, there were 1,383,700 residents living in nursing homes across the country, according to a report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

It’s because of stats like these, and stories like the Strandjords, that we recommend everyone consider long-term care insurance, even if you think you are able to self-fund the potential need for medical care. You might not need the insurance, and if so, you can consider yourself lucky that you were prepared for the potential.

Work with your financial, tax, and legal advisors so they can answer questions about disability and long-term care insurance.

For U.S. Bank: Deposit products offered by U.S. Bank National Association. Member FDIC Credit products offered by U.S. Bank National Association and subject to normal credit approval.

This information represents the opinion of U.S. Bank and is not intended to be a forecast of future events or a guarantee of future results.

U.S. Bank is not responsible for and does not guarantee the products, services or performance of U.S. Bancorp Investments.

U.S. Bancorp Investments and its representatives do not provide tax or legal advice. Each individual’s tax and financial situation is unique. Clients should consult their tax or legal advisor for advice and information concerning their particular situation.

Dear Sheila: Getting Out of the Guilt Trap Dear Sheila Six years ago when mom died, dad came to live with my husband and me.

At the time he was healthy and active, but he had a stroke 4 years ago and I’ve cared for him ever since. It’s become too much for me physically and emotionally, but I’m afraid if I hire a caregiver he’ll feel rejected. What’s the right thing to do?

Feeling Guilty

provide caregivers for as little as 2 hours/day to 24 hours/day. When you hand over the caregiving to a trained caregiver, it will free up your time to take care of yourself and spend quality time with your father. I think your dad will understand especially if you focus on the need for you to maintain your health so Sheila McKannay that you can continue to be there for him. Do an internet search for “home care” and check out a few websites to see what is available Dear Guilty, in your area. I think you will both be I want to assure you that hiring the happier when you have some help. right caregiver for your dad can turn out great. After all, you won’t be of any help Sheila McKannay, MA, CMC, is to him if you wear yourself out or worse, Vice President of Client Care for Family get injured. Imagine how guilty he would Resource Home Care, greater Seattle’s feel if that happened! Hiring a caregiver largest provider of private caregiving isn’t an “all or nothing” proposal. You services for seniors. For more Dear Sheila could hire someone to help with your letters or other helpful articles, visit our dad’s morning and or bedtime routines website: www.familyresourcehomecare.com/ or to give you a break during the day. blog Home care agencies, such as mine,

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GENERATION 50+

Hearing less can lead to other health issues

Drs. Ashley Al-Izzi and Amy Wolf Northgate Hearing Services www.northgatehearing.com.

Reducing can open your life up

➧ HEARING, from Page 7 hearing loss. The assumption has been that if people use hearing aids and thus become socially active again or are able to maintain an appropriate level of social activity then they would decrease their risk of a more rapid decline in cognitive skills.

The new study appears to corroborate those assumptions.”

Dr. Ashley Al-Izzi points out when the sound signals from your ears are compromised by hearing loss, your brain has to work even harder to fill in the gaps.

This extra effort can take its toll.

“The newest hearing aids with BrainHearing™ technology are designed for your brain, supporting the hard work it does,” she explains. “The result is a more natural, effortless listening experience. This means less demanding mental processing throughout the day so you can engage more actively in everyday life.”

Oticon’s Alta2 with BrainHearing technology provides up to 20% improvement in understanding soft speech so wearers can hear more of the subtle nuances of a conversation. Alta2 comes in a wide range of super sleek and small behind-the-ear and RITE styles as well as comfortable, custom fit in-the-ear styles.

➧ THINGS, from Page 8 beautiful hat or cut several into squares to make a scarf. Old well-worn suitcases make excellent “shabby chic” end tables or coffee tables with great storage inside. The Lions Club accepts used eyeglasses.

Websites such as Pinterest, Apartment Therapy, and Houzz have unique ideas for repurposing items. The more you release, the more room you have in your life.

The possibilities are endless once you picture cherished items with a new eye.

Contact a Seniors Real Estate Specialist for other ideas and referrals to area charities.

Amy Greenberg, Seniors real Estate Specialist SRES® amy@amygreenberg.com

GenCare Lifestyle Senior and Assisted Living Whole Life Living.

Ballard Landmark 5433 Leary Avenue NW (2 blocks from Ballard Swedish Hospital)

www.BallardLandmark.com

Welcome to GenCare Lifestyle at The Ballard Landmark The first Gluten-Free Food Service accredited Retirement Living Company in the United States!

The Ballard Landmark is situated in Seattle’s Ballard neighborhood, just minutes from highway 99 and I-5. Within walking distance from various grocery stores, doctor offices, library, movie theatre, and a plethora of shops and restaurants.

The Ballard Landmark received a high rating and has been named a Top Rated Senior Living Community in the Best Senior Living Awards - Seattle/Tacoma by Seniorhomes.com!

For a complimentary tour of our community, contact Mindy Byers, Community Relations Director 206-782- 4000 | mbyers@gencare-inc.com.

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GENERATION 50+

Chest discomfort, Feeling extra tired?

When to get help

Are you experiencing heart palpitations, shortness of breath, fatigue and discomfort around your heart? You could be experiencing atrial fibrillation (AF or AFib), the most common heart rhythm disorder. Recognizing signs and symptoms is essential to early diagnosis and effective treatment.

Affecting about three million Americans, AF is a rapid heartbeat, which can lead to poor blood flow and increased risk of serious conditions, including stroke and heart failure.

AF is the result of abnormal electrical impulses, which travel chaotically throughout the upper chambers of the heart, causing the atria to contract so quickly the heart loses its ability to pump efficiently. This may cause blood to pool in the heart, where it can clot. If a clot travels to the brain, it can cause a stroke.

A recent study by researchers from Boston University found that people with AF are nearly five times more likely to have a stroke.

“All types of patients of all ages should

monitor heart rate and blood pressure regularly, and seek medical help when they don’t feel well. Even short bursts of palpitations may be the beginning of persistent or chronic AF,” says Dr. Leo Polosajian, an electrophysiologist and founder of Cardiac Rhythm Specialists in Reseda, CA. Unfortunately, many AF patients don’t experience symptoms until an event happens.

“While biking my normal route, my heart rate rose and I couldn’t breathe. I pretty much went into sudden cardiac death,” says Todd Smiland, a patient of Polosajian’s. “Luckily the ambulance made it to me in seven minutes and they were able to defibrillate me back to life, essentially. That pretty much started all of my heart issues.”

By correcting abnormal conduction fibers in the heart through ablation, its electrical system may be repaired and the heart may return to a normal rhythm. One of the newest innovations uses contact force ablation technology, which gives

physicians a real-time, objective measure of force applied to the heart during the procedure.

“I felt this patient was an ideal candidate for an ablation procedure instead of medication, which only treats symptoms. When patients don’t respond to medication or it’s not an optimal therapy option, I turn to radiofrequency ablation,” says Polosajian.

“It was like night and day,” says Smiland, who after receiving ablation treatment, resumed activities he previously enjoyed.

According to Polosajian, Smiland’s experience may not represent those of all patients, but a recent FDA review found ablation had at least a 47 percent greater success rate than medication.

“This patient’s experience is what all physicians hope to achieve,” says Polosajian.

It’s important to note there are risks and potential adverse events associated with ablation procedures, including but not limited to cardiovascular related

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complications, such as hematoma, effusion and infection. Contact force ablation may not be appropriate for patients who have had certain recent heart surgeries, prosthetic valves, active systemic infection or have undergone other major vascular procedures. Patients should consult with their physicians about options.

A checklist of questions to ask your doctor can be found at www.sjm.com/ AfibAnswers, a site provided by St. Jude Medical, a leader in technologies that treat atrial fibrillation.

Know the signs and symptoms of AF and talk to your doctor, if you suspect anything is amiss.

(StatePoint)

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