A Blank Slate Media/Litmor Publications Special Section • July 13, 2018
32 Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, July 13, 2018
Bringing concierge elder care to home Alliance Homecare builds on founder’s experience caring for ailing grandmother BY A M E L I A C A M U R AT I The idea for Greg Solometo’s business, he said, came from his experiences caring for his grandmother in her final years. Raised by his grandparents in upstate New York, Solometo said he spent five years as his grandmother’s primary caregiver after she developed Alzheimer’s disease at 85. “I took care of everything — I hired and fired caregivers, I took her to the doctors, I paid her bills,” Solometo said. “Over that time period, I developed an interest in it and a passion for it.” In 2006, Solometo alongside fellow founders and registered nurses Michele Teter and Diane Sirakovsky opened Alliance Homecare and was licensed by the state Department of Health in 2009. The company now has three offices in New York — one in Woodbury, one in New York City and one in West Nyack.
PHOTO COURTESY OF GREG SOLOMETO
Greg Solometo, left, founded Alliance Homecare after serving as his grandmother’s primary caregiver for five years. Solometo said the company is built on three core principals: finding great caregivers, managing cases with care managers and offering personalized concierge services. The nurses and caregivers hired, Solometo said, are typically the top 15 percent of the workforce, with 150 hired in 2017 out of the approximately 900 that applied for positions
with Alliance Homecare. “When we’re hiring people, we’re conscious of their personalities, their positivity and the softer skills you can’t really gauge without having experience or empathy,” Solometo said. The caregivers are managed in small batches by care managers, Solometo said, who typically manage about 20 cases per
manager. The care manager’s job goes beyond the supervision of the caregivers but also coordinating between doctors for the client as well as working with the children and grandchildren to help the entire family as a “professional family member,” Solometo said. Alliance Homecare’s personalized concierge options for each client range from physical and occupational therapy for all clients, including a fall risk assessment and individualized plans to increase strength, to geriatric psychologists and psychiatrists for mental health support. Solometo said about 30 percent of the clientele works with the psychiatric team as well as some of the client’s spouses. “These are hard times for people,” Solometo said. “They’re entering new phases of life, they’re losing independence and losing control, so the clients themselves can use support sometimes.” Solometo said the company
also partners with eldercare attorneys who can assess all end of life documentation and help clients who haven’t drafted a power of attorney or health-care proxy document yet. Food, Solometo said, is a critical part of eldercare but one often overlooked in the eldercare industry. Alliance Homecare offers a registered dietician to build a culinary plan for the clients and an organic chef can help caregivers, clients and family members implement that plan with shopping lessons, cooking classes and easy but healthy recipes. “Food is something that’s so critical and really not considered in the general homecare industry,” Solometo said. “We’re trying to educate the caregivers on culinary expertise and provide good food on a regular basis to the clients.” Reach reporter Amelia Camurati by email at acamurati@theislandnow.com, by phone at 516307-1045, ext. 215, or follow her on Twitter @acamurati.
Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, July 13, 2018
18
31 Northern Boulevard 625 Park Avenue Greenvale, NY 11548 New York, NY 10065 PH: 516-484-9000 PH: 212-794-4000 www.cosmetiqueMD.com
DEBORAH S. SARNOFF, M.D. Board-Certified Dermatologist "Best Doctors in NY" — New York Magazine Clinical Professor of Dermatology NYU Langone Medical Center ROBERT H. GOTKIN, M.D. Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon ` Top Doctor NY Metro Area�— 14 years Castle Connolly, Ltd.
-AS SEEN IN -
7KH ([SHUWV LQ %RWR[Š )LOOHUV 0RGHUQ ,QMHFWDEOH %HDXW\
COMPLIMENTARY CONSULTATION
31 NORTHERN BOULEVARD, GREENVALE, NY 11548 | 516-484-9000 625 PARK AVENUE, NEW YORK, NY 10065 | 212-794-4000
FRVPHWLTXH0' FRP
33
34 Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, July 13, 2018
What you need to know about Medicare Some preparation and time needed before beginning to receiving coverage BY J U L I E WA R D -A B D O Senior Health Plan Finder Turning 65 is a daunting reality that leaves one with many decisions to make. One of the most confusing decisions can be regarding your current health insurance plan and Medicare. The standard age for Medicare eligibility is 65. Most people think enrollment in Medicare is automatic, however, it’s not. If you are collecting Social Security or Railroad Retirement Benefits you are eligible for automatic enrollment and you will receive your Medicare card in the mail approximately three months before your 65th birthday, along with a letter explaining how Medicare works. If you are turning 65 and not receiving these benefits you will need to determine whether signing up for Medicare now is the correct decision for you. Many people think Medicare is free, but it is not. You and/or your spouse have had
to work and pay into Medicare for 40 quarters or 10 years to be entitled to Medicare Part A without a premium. However, there are costs associated with Part B Medicare. Medicare charges a monthly premium for Part B which is income related. High-income earners pay an additional amount above the base premium. Many people today work beyond the age of 65 and have group health insurance through an employer or a union.
In this instance, there are certain rules that determine whether you need to sign up for Medicare. If the company you work for employs more than 20 people, you can defer enrolling in Medicare because your employer group coverage is your primary insurance. Signing up for Medicare Part B will add an additional monthly premium to your healthcare costs. Since Part A has no monthly premium many
You Can’t See Glaucoma Coming… But We Can.
Doctor available for glaucoma & cataract testing, exams, contact lens fittings, dry & red eyes. By appt. only. MEDICARE ASSIGNMENTS ACCEPTED If you are over the age of 60, and it has been more than a year since your last eye exam, talk to us today about your vision care needs.
30 OFF
$
$
Any One Complete Pair of Prescription Eyeglasses At time of purchase. Not retroactive. $100 min. purchase. Cannot be combined w/any other offer or Union plans. W/coupon only. Exp. 9/30/18
70 OFF
Any Two Complete Pairs of Prescription Eyeglasses At time of purchase. Not retroactive. $100 min. purchase per pair. Cannot be combined w/any other offer or Union plans. W/coupon only. Exp. 9/30/18
OUR EXPERIENCE & QUALITY MAKE THE DIFFERENCE FULL-SERVICE, FAMILY OWNED OPTICAL CENTER SINCE 1982
Focal Point Optical FAMILY OPTICAL CENTER
GARDEN CITY PARK
COME IN FOR YOUR EYE EXAM.
MOST UNION PLANS & MEDICARE ASSIGNMENT ACCEPTED. 2453 Jericho Tpke. (We Accept Eyemed) 516-746-3836 Visit Us At: www.focalpointgcp.com
individuals sign up for Part A only. If you work for a company with fewer than 20 employees, Medicare becomes your primary insurance and your employer plan is secondary. Without Part A and Part B Medicare, your employer coverage could be insufficient. Check with your employer to see if you need to sign up for Medicare, so you make the right decision. If your employer group plan is a high deductible plan with a Health Savings Account you can no longer contribute to the HSA if you enroll in Medicare Part A or Part B. You can use the money in your HSA for medical expenses until the money in the account runs out. If you choose to delay enrolling in Medicare when turning 65 because you have coverage through your employer, you will have access to a Special Enrollment Period when you decide to retire. The Special Enrollment period lasts for eight months af-
ter you leave your job or your group health coverage ends. You will not incur a penalty for delaying enrollment because you had creditable coverage. Creditable coverage means that your employer or union coverage is as good as, if not better than the coverage you can obtain from a Medicare plan. Once you make the decision to enroll in Medicare you can apply for Medicare Part A and/ or Part B through the Social Security Administration. You can call up Social Security and make an appointment to go down to your local Social Security Office, or you can apply online at ssa.gov. Either way, make sure you give yourself plenty of time in advance of your needs. The general rule of thumb is to sign up 2-3 months before you want your Medicare to begin. Medicare always starts on the first day of the month. www.seniorhealthplanfinder. com
ADVERTORIAL
How Can I Tell If I Have Glaucoma? What is glaucoma? Glaucoma is an eye disease in which the optic nerve is damaged, causing permanent vision loss. Most commonly, the damage occurs when your eye’s internal fluid pressure rises too high. Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of blindness in the U.S. What causes glaucoma? The exact cause of glaucoma is not known. For some reason, the passages that normally allow fluid within your eye become clogged or blocked. Fluid within your eye builds up and increases pressure on the optic nerve. The nerve fibers and blood vessels in the optic nerve are easily damaged by this pressure, resulting in vision loss. An injury, infection or tumor in or around the eye can also cause the pressure to rise. People who have glaucoma with normal eye pressure likely have poor blood flow to the optic nerve. Who gets glaucoma? Glaucoma most frequently occurs in individuals over the age of 40. In some families, the disease is hereditary. It is estimated that over 2 million Americans have glaucoma, and this number is expected to rise as the U.S. population ages. How is glaucoma harmful to vision? The optic nerve, at the back of the eye,
carries visual information to the brain. As the optic nerve fibers are damaged, the amount and quality of information sent to the brain decreases and a loss of vision occurs. Will I go blind from glaucoma? If diagnosed at an early stage, glaucoma can often be controlled with little or no further vision loss. If left untreated, first peripheral vision and then central vision will be affected, and blindness may result. How Is glaucoma detected? A comprehensive optometric examination will include tests for glaucoma. A simple, painless procedure called tonometry measures the internal pressure of your eye. Health of the optic nerve and your field of vision will be checked. How is glaucoma treated? Glaucoma is usually effectively treated with prescription eye drops and medicines that must be taken regularly. Some cases require laser therapy or surgery. Will my vision be restored after treatment? No. But early detection and treatment can control glaucoma and reduce the chances of vision loss.
Focal Point Optical FAMILY OPTICAL CENTER
GARDEN CITY PARK 2453 Jericho Tpke. (Between Herricks Rd & Marcus Ave) 516-746-3836
COME IN FOR YOUR EYE EXAM. MOST UNION PLANS & MEDICARE ASSIGNMENT ACCEPTED. (We Accept Eyemed)
Visit Us At: www.focalpointgcp.com
Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, July 13, 2018
35
Paid advertisement
Break Free from Neuropathy with a New Supportive Care Cream A patented relief cream stands to help millions of Americans crippled from the side effects neuropathy by increasing sensation and blood flow wherever it’s applied Raymond Wilson The Associated Health Press AHP − A recent breakthrough stands to help millions of Americans plagued by burning, tingling and numb legs and feet. But this time it comes in the form of a cream, not a pill, suggesting the medical community may have been going about the problem all wrong. The breakthrough, called Diabasens, is a new relief cream developed for managing the relentless discomfort caused by neuropathy. When applied directly to the legs and feet, it causes arteries and blood vessels to expand, increasing the flow of warm, nutrient rich blood to damaged tissue. However, what’s most remarkable about the cream...and what makes it so brilliant...is that it contains one of the only natural substances known to activate a special sensory pathway right below the surface of the skin. This pathway is called TRAP1 and it controls the sensitivity of nerves. In laymen terms, it determines whether you feel pins and needles or soothing relief. Studies show that symptoms of neuropathy arise when the nerves in your legs deteriorate and blood flow is lost to the areas which surround them. As the nerves begins to die, sensation is lost. This lack of sensation is what causes the feelings of burning, tingling and numbness. This is why the makers of Diabasens say their cream has performed so well in a recent clinical use survey trial. It increases sensation and blood flow where ever its applied.
No Pills, No Prescriptions, No Agony Until now, many doctors have failed to consider a topical cream as an effective way to manage neuropathy. Diabasens is proving it may be the only way going forward. “Most of today’s treatment methods have focused on minimizing discomfort instead of attacking its underlining cause. That’s why millions of adults are still in excruciating pain every single day, and are constantly dealing with side effects” explains Dr. Esber, the creator of Diabasens. “Diabasens is different. Since the most commonly reported symptoms − burning, tingling and numb legs and feet − are caused by lack of sensation of the nerves, we’ve designed the formula increase their sensitivity. And since these nerves are located right below the skin, we’ve chosen to formulate it as a cream. This allows for the ingredients to get to them faster and without any drug like side effects” he adds.
Study Finds Restoring Sensation the Key To Effective, Long Lasting Relief With the conclusion of their latest human clinical use survey trial, Dr. Esber and his team are now offering Diabasens nationwide. And regardless of the market, its sales are exploding. Men and women from all over the country are eager to get their hands on the new cream and, according to the results initial users reported, they should be. In the trial above, as compared to baseline, participants taking Diabasens saw a staggering 51% increase sensitivity in just one week. This resulted in significant relief from burning, tingling and nubmness throughout their legs. Many participants taking Diabasens described feeling much more balanced and comfortable throughout the day. They also noticed that after applying, there was a pleasant warming sensation that was remarkably soothing.
Diabasens Users Demand More Many of Diabasens users say their legs have never felt better. For the first time in years, they are able to walk free from the symptoms which have made life hard. “I have been using the cream now for about ten days. It has given me such relief. I’ve had very bad foot pain from injuries and overuse of my feet for years which have contributed to severe itching/tingling and pain for some time. (My father also suffered from this pain and itching. I wish I would have had this for him.)
Topical Creams Offer Sufferers a Safer, More Effective Avenue of Relief: Diabasens increases sensation and blood flow wherever its applied. It’s now being used to relieve painful legs and feet.
The active ingredient is a compound known as cinnamaldehyde. Studies show that neuropathy and nerve pain is caused when the peripheral nerves breakdown and blood is unable to circulate into your legs and feet. As these nerves deteriorate, sensation is lost. This is why you may not feel hot or cold and your legs and feet may burn, tingle and go numb. Additionally, without proper blood flow, tissues and cells in these areas begin to die, causing unbearable pain. The cinnamaldehyde in Diabasens is one of the only compounds in existence that can activate TRPA1, a special sensory pathway that runs through your entire body. According to research, activating this pathway (which can only be done with a cream) increases the sensitivity of nerves, relieving feelings of tingling and numbness in your legs and feet. Supporting ingredients boost blood flow, supplying the nerves with the nutrients they need for increased sensation.
The first time I used the cream, I felt an almost immediate relief from this.
Amazing Relief Exactly Where You Need It
I now use it at least twice a day: once in the morning before work and once at night before I sleep.
With daily use, Diabasens users report remarkable improvements in their quality of life without of the negative side effects or interactions associated with prescription drugs.
I am so delighted with this. It has helped my walking, also. It has helped generate feeling again in my feet,” raves Marsha A. from Texas
Diabasens is shown to provide relief from: • Burning • Swelling • Tingling • Heaviness • Numbness • Cold extremities Targets Nerve Damage Right Below the Skins Surface Diabasens is a topical cream that is to be applied to your legs and feet twice a day for the first two weeks then once a day after. It does not require a prescription.
Readers can now enjoy an entirely new level of comfort that’s both safe and affordable. It is also extremely effective, especially if nothing else has worked.
Discounted Supply of Diabasens for Local Readers This is the official release of Diabasens. As such, the company is offering a special discounted supply to any reader who calls within the next 48 hours. A special hotline number and discounted pricing has been created for all New York residents. Discounts will be available starting today at 6:00AM and will automatically be applied to all callers. Your Toll-Free Hotline number is 1-800-599-7890 and will only be open for the next 48 hours. Only a limited discounted supply of Diabasens is currently available in your region.
THESE STATEMENTS HAVE NOT BEEN EVALUATED BY THE FDA. THIS PRODUCT IS NOT INTENDED TO DIAGNOSE, TREAT, CURE, OR PREVENT ANY DISEASE. RESULTS MAY VARY.
36 Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, July 13, 2018 ADVERTORIAL
Don’t let poor hearing drown out the sounds of summer! Summertime is here! Birds are chirping, water is splashing and children are playing: can you hear it? Summer hearing safety is a sound investment, and the Center for Hearing Health (CHH) is here to help! A nonprofit, full-service hearing center in Mill Neck, N.Y., CHH provides the highest quality care in a state-of-the-art facility run by certified Doctors of Audiology who are pioneers in their field. We provide audiological services to children and adults in communities across Long Island, including but not limited to: Infant & Pediatric Testing: From birth to age 5, our caring and experienced staff provides a childcentered environment, ensuring comfort to the child while acquiring
the most audiological information. Child & Adult Testing: Complete audiological services are available to school-age children and adults. Audiology Van: Our new Mobile Audiology Van brings hearing care to individuals at centers, companies and organizations who are unable to access it in Nassau and Suffolk County. Rehabilitative Services: Individual aural rehabilitation sessions for adults who wear hearing aids, including speech reading, auditory training and counseling. Check out our latest on swim plugs, hearing aids, van events, FREE hearing screenings and more: centerforhearinghealth.org 516-628-4300 santonellis@millneck.org 40 Frost Mill Road, Mill Neck, NY
Joint replacement surgery, rehabilitation BY J OH N JA N E D I S Hobbling around with a swollen knee or stiff hip may soon be passé for America’s seniors. Thanks to surgical advancements, people are seeking medical help sooner to alleviate chronic pain and receive artificial joints — some of them are in their 50s or are even younger. Every year in the United States an estimated 1 million people undergo total joint replacement surgery to correct a damaged or arthritic joint. A joint forms the connection between two or more bones to add support and help you move. The knee, for example, is a hinge joint, and the hip and shoulder are balland-socket joints. The weight-bearing hip and knee joints see ongoing wear and tear and are replaced most frequently. The shoulder, ankle, wrist and elbow are other joints that are wellknown to orthopedic surgeons. Joint replacements are among the most common elective surgeries in the country. A study presented in March by the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons found that people are seeking joint replacements earlier in life, in part because people are staying more active as they age and they want a better quality of life through retirement. The study also noted the rise in U.S. obesity, as obesity places greater stress on aging joints. People are also living longer, and the accumulative use of joints over the years leads to joint breakdown. Dr. Ritesh Shah, an AAOS boardcertified orthopedic surgeon with the Illinois Bone and Joint Institute of metropolitan Chicago, notes that on average people receive a total joint replacement between age 64 and age 66. Shah is seeing an upswing in total knee and hip joint replacements and says that total knee replacements are projected to increase as much as 400 percent in the U.S. by 2030 and that total hip replacements are projected to increase as much as 175 percent. “People are enjoying activities at an older age now and want to enjoy their quality of life,” Shah said. “The ability to ambulate becomes very important to a good quality of life. Significant joint pain is a significant disruption of life and people don’t want to live that way anymore.” Gregg Balbera, president of Right at Home Nassau Suffolk is also seeing seniors be more proactive in improving their day-to-day mobility. “For older adults who do choose joint replacement, many are now bypassing rehabilitation centers and completing post-surgery care at home,” Balbera says. “With the right care supervision, it’s encouraging to see older adults back on their feet and enjoying activities again with their families and friends.”
When Is Joint Replacement Advised? Prominent joints in the body can become severely damaged through the aging process, everyday wear and tear, and injuries. Or conditions like osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, bursitis, fractures, gout, tumors and other diseases can comprise the connections between bones. Joint pain can be mildly irritating to chronically debilitating. One national survey found that roughly one-third of adults have experienced joint pain within the past 30 days. Women have higher rates of arthritis than men (26 percent vs. 19 percent) and more readily elect to have joint replacements, but nationwide, more men are joining the joint surgery ranks. So when do you know if you need joint replacement surgery? Your doctor may recommend surgery if you experience chronic inflammation, limited movement, joint deformity, or when non-surgical treatments such as physical therapy, medications and injections have not provided sufficient relief from continual pain. Risks and Benefits of Joint Replacement During a replacement operation, damaged cartilage that cushions the joint surface is removed. Parts of the joint are also removed and fitted with a titanium, ceramic or plastic prosthesis to replicate normal joint movement. Total joint replacements do not last forever, and patients may eventually need a revision to their joint implants, but Shah notes that with today’s improved surgery methods and stronger, cement-less materials, replacement joints are now lasting up to 15 to 20 years on knees and up to 20 to 30 years on hips, depending on the activity level of the patient. Each joint replacement surgery candidate is evaluated for potential risks and complications. A person’s general health and family health history are part of a comprehensive pre-surgery assessment. As with any surgery, conditions such as heart disease, poorly controlled diabetes or a weak immune system can elevate risk. Possible joint replacement surgery complications include infection, blood clots, nerve injury and the prosthesis loosening or dislocating. For the million-plus people each year nationwide who choose joint implant surgery, the benefits of pain relief, better movement and strength, and engagement in sports and social activities outweigh the possible risks. Post-Surgery Recovery and Care Tips Recovery and rehabilitation for joint replacement varies with each individual, but in general, following the doctor’s instructions will speed healing. Most patients will experience pain Continued on Page 40
Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, July 13, 2018
North Shore
Vein Center
37
38 Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, July 13, 2018
Senior living options abound S
enior living communities often present an affordable and comfortable option for adults over the age of 55. Filled with likeminded and similarly aged residents, these communities can be the right fit for individuals no longer interested in or capable of taking care of a larger home. Senior communities are located all across the country. Finding one that meets your needs takes only a little research. Although they are often moderately priced and offer a variety of amenities, senior living communities sometimes suffer from a bad reputation. But such communities are not the “old age homes” that some people purport them to be. Rather, they’re entire living neighborhoods that cater to the needs of an active resident base. These communities can range from independent living private homes or condos to managed care facilities. Residents may be able to enjoy organized outings, recreation, shopping, and socialization without having to venture far from property grounds. Some communities offer food services or an on-site restaurant. Fifty-five and older communities offer conveniences that many find irresistible. They’re frequently located close to shopping, dining and healthcare providers. Taxes, insurance, utilities, and maintenance expenses may be covered in one fee. Clubhouses, golf courses, lakes, card rooms, and many other offerings are designed to appeal to residents of many ages. Now that baby boomers have reached the age where retirement communities are a consideration, there has been an influx of interest. Those considering a move to one of these communities should research some information before purchasing a unit.
• Determine the fees associated with a community. Can Medicaid or long-term care insurance pay for all or a portion of the fees? Which types of services does the monthly fee cover?
Cholesterol and its relation to heart disease Cholesterol levels may not have the same relationship to heart disease as once believed.
• Who is eligible to live in the community? Some restrict all residents to a particular age, while others do not. Rules may be in effect that include an age cut-off limit. • Investigate the types of residents and who would be your immediate neighbors. What percentage of people live in the community all year long, and how many are part-time residents? • Look into the particular home owner’s association rules. Bylaws may indicate that the property must be kept in a certain manner. You may not be able to paint exterior items a certain color, nor put up fencing or set up outdoor patio furniture. Get the details before you sign anything. • Is this the type of community where you can age in place? Meaning, are there separate accommodations if you eventually need assisted living care? Some communities offer living options that vary depending on residents’ ages. • Be sure there are activities or amenities that appeal to you. You eventually want to find your niche and get together with a group of friends who share the same interests. • You may want to find a community close to your children or other relatives. This way you will not have to travel far to visit others, and they will be able to visit you easily in return. • Some communities are gated, which can increase feelings of safety. If this is a priority, look for housing under security. Following these guidelines can mean discovering a community where anyone can feel comfortable for years to come.
H
professionals and researchers now believe the primary causes of heart disease are inflammation and oxidative stress.
Statistics from the American Heart Association indicate that 75 million Americans currently suffer from heart disease. And even though one-quarter of the population takes cholesterollowering medication and have reduced the fat content of their diets, the AHA estimates that more Americans will die of heart disease than ever before.
According to Dr. Dwight Lundell, a heart surgeon and author of the book, “The Great Cholesterol Lie,” foods like refined sugars and vegetable oils used to preserve processed foods may lead to the inflammation that ultimately causes heart disease. Inflammation is the body’s immune response to a foreign invader. Foods high in sugar and saturated fat can exacerbate inflammation. Bacteria and other unwanted substances in the body also contribute to inflammation.
igh cholesterol levels have long been directly linked to heart disease. But as more research into cholesterol and its relation to heart disease is conducted, some doctors are shifting their views on the relationship between the two.
More revelations are coming to the forefront regarding cholesterol and heart disease. New research has shown that statin drugs are ineffective at reducing mortality rates in most populations. Furthermore, according to the Framingham Heart Study, which is the longest-running and most comprehensive study on heart disease to date, it was demonstrated that cholesterol intake in the diet had no correlation with heart disease. The study found that men and women with above average cholesterol levels had nearly identical rates of heart disease compared to those with below average cholesterol rates. Another potential eye opener is that, in addition to cholesterol not affecting heart disease risk, eating highcholesterol foods does not elevate blood-cholesterol levels as doctors once thought. Ancel Keys, who is considered the “father” of the theory that cholesterol contributes to heart disease, now says that there’s no connection between cholesterol in food and cholesterol in the blood. If not cholesterol levels and the foods one eats, what, then is responsible for heart disease? Many medical
To combat inflammation, people can adopt a healthy eating style. Fatty fish, whole grains, leafy greens, fiber, and nuts can help reduce inflammation. Exercise also can reduce inflammation. Research from Mark Hamer, PhD, an epidemiologist at University College London, found that, regardless of BMI or weight, study participants who completed 2.5 hours of moderate exercise each week — about 20 minutes a day — lowered their markers of inflammation by at least 12 percent. When a person exercises, muscle tissue releases a protein molecule called cytokine, which likely prompts an inflammation drop. Just about any type of workout that raises heart rate is effective in helping with inflammation. The public may have been misinformed about just how vital it is to reduce cholesterol levels. Contrary to popular belief, high cholesterol may not have the same connection to heart disease as doctors once thought. In fact, inflammation may be the bigger component in heart disease risk.
Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, July 13, 2018
39
Your Healthy Life Is Our Mission WE MANAGE: Diabetics, Blood Pressure, Coronary Artery Disease, Obesity, Asthma
You are always treated with understanding & compassion
We respect the dignity of every patient. WALK-INS ALWAYS WELCOME
• State-of-the-Art Facility with Confidential Electronic Medical Recording System.
WE PROVIDE: Preventive Care, Minor Trauma Care, Blood Testing, EKG, Holter, Spirometry IMMUNIZATIONS for:
• FLU • PNEUMONIA • SHINGLES
• Comprehensive Annual and School Physicals Affiliated With: Northwell Health (formerly North Shore LIJ). Flushing Hospital Medical Center
Mon, Wed, Fri 10:00 am - 6:00 pm, Tues-2:00 pm - 6:00 pm, Sat-10:00 am - 2:00 pm.
40 Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, July 13, 2018
Dating after 50
Joint replacement surgery, rehabilitation Continued from Page 36 in the replaced joint as tissues heal and the body adjusts to strengthening surrounding muscles that have been weak from inactivity. For new knee joints, the doctor may prescribe a continuous passive motion (CPM) device for patients to use at home to help the knee learn to flex and extend. Cryotherapy machines and packs that employ ice to reduce pain and swelling are also used in post-surgery care. The first weeks at home may also require the use of assistive items such as handrails, a shower bench, raised toilet and long-handled reacher. “Typically, seniors who are at home recovering from joint replacement need the initial support of a home health therapist or nurse, then transition to outpatient physical therapy,” Balbera said. “Older patients recover better when they have a family or professional caregiver present to help with medications for pain management and the specific exercises to help restore joint strength and movement. Balancing rest with activity is key.”
S
weaty palms, heart palpitations and nervousness are common first date symptoms. Many people can remember the feelings of excitement and fear they felt the first time they went out on a date as a teenager. But those who find themselves back in the dating pool as mature adults quickly learn that dating jitters still may be present even after all this time. Recent data from the U.S. Census Bureau finds that those over the age of 50 are now divorcing at double the rate of younger people. Loss of a spouse is another reason the over 50 crowd may once again be dabbling in dating. Recent reports say that 40 percent of online daters today are over the age of 50. Successfully navigating the waters of matchmaking sites or old-fashioned meet-and-greets means reacquainting oneself with a few handy tips. • Don’t open up with your extended history. Older daters have more life experiences and potentially a greater number of past relationships. Recognize that you both may bring former spouses and even children to the table, but don’t feel the need to delve into all of your adventures (or misadventures) on the first date. Early dates are not for setting the entire course of your relationship. They’re for getting acquainted and seeing if this is a relationship you want to continue. Getting too personal right off the bat can sabotage a relationship before it starts. • Take it slow. There’s no need to rush anything along. Biological clocks or perceived societal notions no longer may be causing pressing relationship deadlines. Take the first date and any
other subsequent dates at a pace that’s mutually agreed upon. It may take several months to years before all of your truths come out, but for now focus on having fun until you’re both ready to share more. • Look for the positives. Before you decide a person is not for you, make a note of all of his or her positive attributes. What do you like most about him or her? Initial negativity or doubts may stem from your fear of rejection. Be open to others who may not fit your type. • Don’t get discouraged. The person you first meet may not be the right fit. Don’t let this turn you off of dating. The right person may be the next one around the corner. • Meet in public places. Many dates begin with online conversations with the intention to meet for a physical date later on. Always keep safety in mind when setting a rendezvous with someone you don’t know well. Choose a public meeting spot, such as a busy restaurant. Ask a friend to check in on you via phone call. Consider a doubledate if you’re weary. Take your own car and meet at the date location rather than being picked up at home. • Wait for intimacy. It may take a while before you feel comfortable getting intimate with someone new. This person should respect your feelings and not pressure you into a physical relationship until you are both ready. Also, give the other person time to grow comfortable with intimacy. Dating after 50 means taking chances, going slow and exploring new relationship possibilities that make you feel comfortable.
New Horizons for Joint Replacement Surgery While traditional joint replacement surgery has meant months of recovery including pain, opioid medications, limited mobility and intense rehabilitation, Dr. Shah and a growing number of orthopedic surgeons are employing innovative surgery techniques to significantly advance patient outcomes. These contemporary technologies and techniques include shifting muscles out of the way instead of cutting into them or disturbing too much bone. Prefabricated cutting block molds from 3-D magnetic imaging help eliminate the need for more invasive bone separation, rods and pins. Digital cameras, optical navigation and robotic-assisted systems in the operating room help ensure precise positioning of the joint implants and speed total surgery time. “We’ve really changed recovery significantly where, for example, when I do
a total knee replacement or total hip replacement, that patient walks about 30 to 40 minutes after their surgery, climbs stairs about an hour after surgery, and goes home between an hour and a half and two hours after their surgery,” Shah explains. “So it’s no longer the idea that you’re going to be in the hospital and a nursing home and rehab for weeks. Week in and week out, this outpatient total replacement is a very routine process for us. The patients are happy because the recovery isn’t so long, and they are back to life much faster.” Based on insurance coverage and upfront training and equipment costs for surgeons, hospitals and surgery centers, these advancements in joint replacements and post-surgery recovery are not yet available for every patient, but the outlook is promising. “Surgery is really an important part of the process of having a total joint replacement, but surgery is not the only part,” Shah adds. “It is important that the surgeon builds a team that encourages appropriate anesthesia, nursing and physical therapy. My oldest patient was 81 and we’ve had multiple people in their late 70s and early 80s have outpatient surgeries. The main thing to consider with a senior is identifying safety by seeing if medical problems are compatible with having surgery and anesthesia and then making sure the home situation is appropriate.” About Right at Home of Nassau Suffolk The Nassau Suffolk office of Right at Home is a locally owned and operated franchise office of Right at Home, Inc., serving the communities Centerport, Cold Spring Hills, Commack, Dix Hills, East Northport, East Setauket, Greenlawn, Halesite, Hauppauge, Huntington, Kings Park, Lake Grove, Lloyd Harbor, Melville, Nesconset, Old Bethpage, Plainview, St. James, Smithtown, Stony Brook, West Hills and Woodbury. For more information, contact Right at Home Nassau Suffolk at www.rightathomeli.com, 516.719.5999/631.352.0022 or by email at gregg@rightathomeli.com
Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, July 13, 2018
41
How to avoid growing Pointers for adults bored in retirement returning to school T oday’s seniors, particularly those who already have passed retirement age, may find themselves with many free hours to fill now that a job no longer accounts for most of their time. Returning to school may help seniors realize lifelong dreams of finishing a degree, exploring a hobby, getting educated to gain work in a new field, or just to fill some time in a productive way. Information from the United States Department of Education’s National Center for Education Statistics finds the demand for continuing education is still growing. For those aged 35 and older, the center says adult enrollment should grow by at least another 7 percent through 2016.
F
rom the moment young men and women first walk into the office for their first day as a working professional until the day they officially retire, the notion of planning for retirement is never far from their minds. But when the day to hang up the briefcase and donate all those business suits arrives, some retirees wonder what to do next. Some retirees know exactly how they will spend their days when they no longer have to work, while others who decide to play it by ear may find themselves battling boredom. For those among the latter group, it’s important to understand that many retirees find themselves bored once they no longer have to focus on a career. Jobs keep men and women busy and provide a sense of purpose in their lives, so it’s understandable that retirees feel bored once those jobs are no longer a part of their lives. But just because you no longer have an office to go to every day does not mean life cannot be as fulfilling or even more fulfilling than it was when you were still working. You just need to find something to avoid succumbing to retirement boredom. • Work part-time. Though it might seem odd to start working right after you retire, a part-time job can provide the type of structure you have grown accustomed to without all of the responsibility that comes with a fulltime career. Part-time jobs can range from consultancy work that makes use of your professional experience to something entirely different like landscape maintenance at a nearby golf course that gets you out of the house and enjoying the warmer seasons. Whichever you choose, make sure it’s something you find fun and interesting.
• Embrace a new hobby. Working professionals often say they wish they had time to pursue a hobby. Now that you are retired, you have all the time in the world to do just that. Whether it’s perfecting your golf game, writing that novel, learning to cook like a gourmet chef or whatever else you might have always wanted to do, retirement is a great time to do it. • Get in shape. If retirement boredom has started to negatively affect your mood, one great way to conquer your boredom and improve your mood at the same time is to start exercising. Exercise is a natural mood enhancer. When the body exercises, it releases chemicals knowns as endorphins, which trigger positive feelings in the body. In addition, regular exercise has been shown to reduce stress, boost self-esteem and improve sleep. Working out at a gym also is a great way to meet fellow retirees in your community, and the energy you have after exercising may give you the boost you need to pursue other hobbies. • Volunteer. If a part-time job is not up your alley, then consider volunteering in your community. Volunteers are always in demand, and volunteering with a local charity can provide a sense of purpose and provide opportunities to meet like-minded fellow retirees, all while helping to quell your boredom. Retirees who love to travel can combine their passion for volunteering with their love of travel by signing up to work with an international relief organization that travels abroad to help the less fortunate. Upon retiring, many retirees initially find themselves coping with boredom. But there are many ways to avoid the restlessness of retirement.
It’s possible to return to school at any age. Adults looking at continuing education possibilities can heed these easy tips to make stepping into a classroom again successful. • Get some help. Some time may have passed since you last toted textbooks or entered a classroom setting. Things have changed since you last were in school. Sit down with a guidance counselor or a career advisor and go over your schooling goals to plot out a degree map. This will help you determine which courses to take or what schools will best fit your needs. • Research schooling options. According to the National Survey of Students in Continuing Education, adult learners prefer post-secondary education that is affordable and close to home. Recognize that many schools now offer online learning, which may be ideal for you if you prefer to learn from the comfort of home. Decide what is important to you in a school, then narrow
down your prospects.
• Schedule a campus visit. Tour the campus to get a feel for the school environment. Visit with someone in student services or attend an event for adult learners so you will know what the admissions process entails.
• Get financial assistance. Scholarships, grants and other financial aid are not just for young students. You may be eligible for financial help. Speak with a financial aid advisor to determine your eligibility for programs. • Decide enrollment status. Do you want to go to school full time or part time or do you want to take classes here and there? Knowing in advance will help you develop the right schedule. • Take a few refresher courses. Rather than delve into the tough stuff right away, enroll in a few basic classes to ease yourself back into the academic environment. Then next semester you can increase the difficulty level and workload. • Be prepared for homework and study. You may have grown accustomed to being only accountable to yourself as of late. Once in school you will have assignments and tests. Plan for study time and develop a schedule to allow for school commitments. • Take it slow. There’s no race to the finish line. Going back to school is your decision, and you can go at your own pace. Adult students return to the classroom for many reasons. Involve family in the decision to continue education and embrace the positive changes that are in store.
42 Blank Slate Media Newspapers, Friday, July 13, 2018
DISCOVER THE FINEST IN ASSISTED LIVING
AT OUR NEW LOCATION: THE BRISTAL AT GARDEN CITY
Photos: Exterior Rendering, The Bristal at Garden City; Lobby, The Bristal at North Hills; Living Room, The Bristal at West Babylon; Dining Room, The Bristal at Lake Grove
RESERVE NOW | MOVE IN SUMMER 2018
CALL US TODAY TO SCHEDULE YOUR VISIT 1001 Axinn Avenue | (516) 259.0808
For a list of all locations in the tri-state area visit: thebristal.com Eligible for Most Long Term Care Policies • Quality Communities by The Engel Burman Group