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Allen County edition ReAChing FoRt WAyne And SuRRounding CountieS
September 2026
Vol. 39, No. 5
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RESTORED BARN — The restored red barn is the centerpiece of Salomon Farm Park.
HISTORY LIVES ON AT SALOMON FARM PARK By LINDA LIPP Feature Writer Salomon Farm Park is not what you would expect a typical city park to be. And that’s the whole point. Farmed by the Salomon family since 1871, the acreage just off Dupont Road was given to the city of Fort Wayne on the condition that it remain a working farm. The Salomons “wanted the heritage of their family to continue on. They wanted it to remain a working farm,” said Park Supervisor DeAnna Harris. “They didn’t want it
FARMERS MARKET — The midweek farmers market brings shoppers to the park on Wednesday afternoons.
to turn into soccer fields or a place used for athletic events. They wanted it to remain natural.” The donation to the city and the parks and recreation department was finalized in December 1995, giving the city 170 acres for the park. Initial improvements included repairs and renovations to the landmark red barn and the old homestead, keeping them as close to their historic structures as possible. The Wolf Family Learning Center was built at the park a few years later. It was expanded, and a teaching kitchen was
added in 2018. Despite its size, Salomon Farm Park has a fairly low profile in the community. “I always call it my country in the city. Other people don’t know it’s there,” said Brenda Willis, lead gardener for the farm’s vegetable garden. The garden produces vegetables without the use of chemical herbicides and pesticides. The produce is sold at the park’s booth at the Wednesday afternoon farmers market during the season. Funds from the sales help support the park, which receives less taxpayer money
than other city parks. Rentals of the park’s facilities for special events help keep it self-sustaining. Fees from field trips, farm camp and programs such as goat yoga also help pay the bills. The farmers market is in its 22nd year. Willis has been volunteering for 21 years. Her group of about a dozen volunteers ranges in age from 41 to 83. The park connects with walking trails and has a herd of goats, chickens, rabbits, donkeys and a pony, among other animals. A pedestrian-only covered bridge crosses
Beckett’s Run at the back of the farm. “It’s just a really happy place ... a hidden jewel,” Willis said. Laura Hoffman learned of Salomon Farm through her homeschool group. She, her husband, Joel, and her daughter, Sophia, work with the farm’s animals, feeding, grooming and cleaning up after them. They started volunteering during the COVID-19 pandemic. “It’s helped our family feel connected, to be able to preserve this way of life and also Continued on page 6
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2 ■ SENIOR LIFE — Allen Edition ■ September 2026
Key Positions
VerLee helps women all over the world By NGOZI ROGERS Featured Writer “You are going to help people.” At age 16, while sitting in art class, Lorelei VerLee, founder of the nonprofit Creative Women of the World, said she heard that message from God. “It wasn’t (helping) women at that point,” VerLee said. “But ‘You are going to help people’ around the world through the power of creativity.” She thought creativity meant helping others through art. That message, combined with her international upbringing, would shape her future and the lives of women around the world. A year after VerLee was born in Baraboo, Wis., her parents, both pastors, moved to Japan to teach at a Bible college and minister. Unlike many missionaries, they served where they were needed. “They went and looked for an existing Japanese church that wanted them to serve,” she said. The experience gave VerLee
a different perspective on the world and what it means to serve others. After graduating from high school, she returned to the U.S. to attend college in Indiana, where she met and married her husband, who became a pastor. She became a mother, public school teacher and, eventually, a serial entrepreneur. “I was trying business after business, thinking this creativity model, you know, is going to somehow appear,” VerLee said. “I didn’t actually get to start until I was 56.” She had wanted to live abroad after getting married. Instead, she took numerous mission trips, including one to Bosnia after the war. Later, Haitian Artisans for Peace International took her to Haiti. She lived among women on the side of a mountain with no running water or electricity. That experience, combined with her years in business, began a new journey. “I just sat down with them and said, ‘What do you want for your community?’” VerLee said. The women needed to earn
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EACH ONE TEACH ONE — Lorelei VerLee, founder of Creative Women of the World, left, trains women in Zomba, Malawi, to become trainers of the Unlocking Your Design: Global Empowerment Through Training and Design curriculum. The women will then teach the curriculum to others in Malawi. Photo by Lorelei VerLee. money and wanted to start a greeting card company. VerLee had previously co-owned one for years. “I was never happier in all my life,” she said. “I knew I had finally found what I felt was my full calling.” VerLee taught the women how to create a business plan and secure resources and connections. They also wanted to educate their children. She helped them obtain satellite internet for schooling, as well as medical certification and supplies for existing midwives. The mortality rate has fallen from 70% to 30%, according to VerLee. The experience helped cement the purpose of Creative Women of the World, which VerLee founded in 2011. The nonprofit has two pri-
mary goals. The first is to provide entrepreneurial training through its Unlocking Your Design: Global Empowerment Through Training and Design curriculum. Women learn how to start a business and teach others to do the same. The classes have been taught in Lebanon, Indonesia, Ecuador, South Africa and other countries. The second goal is to create access to markets, such as Creative Women of the World, where women can sell their products. “I’ve always been concerned about poverty, and women have what it takes to overcome,” VerLee said. “I knew that I couldn’t make big systemic changes, but I could use the training that I had from owning several businesses. Based on that, I put togeth-
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er this curriculum and just shared my heart.” Creative Women of the World offers products made by women from 51 countries. The store carries jewelry, clothing, artwork, skin care products, toys, tea, soap and more. The products are sold at fair-trade prices, meaning the artists, the organizations that taught them skills, production facilities in their countries of origin and the seller, Creative Women of the World, receive fair compensation. Consumers can purchase quality products at fair-trade prices without supporting child or forced labor. Creative Women of the World is located at 125 W. Wayne St., Fort Wayne. Call (260) 267-9048 or visit gocwow.com to learn more.
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September 2026 ■ SENIOR LIFE — Allen Edition ■ 3
SPOTLIGHT ON
Do you know how AI is affecting your healthcare? Aging & In-Home Services invites you to join its 51st Stakeholder Summit & Community Conversation on Friday, Oct. 9. The event will feature Emmy-Winning CBS Sunday Morning Correspondent, NOVA Host on PBS, New York Times Contributor and Author David Pogue. The keynote presentation will cover AI: How it works. Where it fails. And how it brings stunning
benefits to health providers, payers, pharmaceuticals and patients. Pogue has made a career of translating technology trends for the lay audience – with a heads-up on how to succeed in a world we’ve never seen before. For 13 years, he wrote the weekly tech column for The New York Times. His work on CBS Sunday Morning has won him seven Emmy Awards. Pogue is one of the
world’s bestselling “how-to” authors, with more than 120 titles and 3 million copies in print. These include seven books in the For Dummies series, his New York Times bestselling Pogue’s Basics series of essential tips and shortcuts, and the Missing Manual series of computer books. Each year AIHS welcomes professionals, community change agents, individuals with disabilities and
family caregivers for an afternoon of reflection and hope as they celebrate the progress in making programming and resources more accessible throughout Indiana. This year’s event will be held at the Parkview Mirro Center on Friday, Oct. 9. Tickets are available now and can be purchased online: bit. ly/stakeholder-summit Sponsorship opportunities are still
DAVID POGUE available. Contact Sam Bostater for more information: sbostater@ agingihs.org.
HOW IS AI AFFECTING YOUR HEALTHCARE? Join us and featured speaker David Pogue as he unveils AI: How it Works. Where it Fails. And how it brings stunning benefits to healthcare.
Friday, October 9, 2026 Doors open 11:00am
Program begins 12:00pm
Parkview Mirro Center
10622 Parkview Plaza Drive Fort Wayne, IN 46845
AVAILABLE NOW! Tickets: $40 Table for 10: $350 To purchase, email: SBostater@agingihs.org
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4 ■ SENIOR LIFE — Allen Edition ■ September 2026
Spotlight
Screech Owls, Kestrels and Turkey Vultures: Raptor rescue to the rescue By NGOZI ROGERS Feature Writer
birding by a professor at Indiana State University. “I just remember being amazed that I’ve been around these birds all my life, and I don’t know their names or what they sound like,” she said. She and her husband have traveled to Texas and Arizona searching for different birds. “It’s kind of like God’s treasure hunt,” she said. Brewer also had a pilot’s license and her own plane. It’s no surprise that she has volunteered at Soarin’ Hawk
Retired teacher Barb Brewer has always been interested in things that fly. “During my years of teaching we would do a project with monarch caterpillars,” Brewer said. Her class would raise caterpillars into butterflies, tag them and release them. “That was always neat for the kids to know, this butterfly is heading to Mexico,” she added. Brewer was introduced to
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www.seniorlifenewspapers.com Senior Life newspapers are monthly publications dedicated to inform, serve and entertain the adults over 50 in Northern Indiana and Southern Michigan. Each of the four editions focus on local news, features, photos and profiles for each area. Senior Life is privately owned and published by The Papers Incorporated. CORPORATE OFFICE The Papers Incorporated, 206 S. Main St., P.O. Box 188, Milford, IN 46542, 574-658-4111 STAFF Ron Baumgartner, Publisher . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .rbaumgartner@the-papers.com Annette Weaver, Business Manager . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . aweaver@the-papers.com Kristin DeVittorio, Director Of Marketing . . . . . . . . . . . . kdevittorio@the-papers.com Deb Patterson, Editor-In-Chief . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . dpatterson@the-papers.com Phoebe Muthart, Editor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . pmuthart@the-papers.com Account Executive Kim Lamley . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .slallen@the-papers.com • 260-760-7022 Jerry Long, Circulation Manager . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . jlong@the-papers.com EDITORIAL DEADLINES Elkhart/Kosciusko Edition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15th Month Prior St. Joseph Edition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15th Month Prior Allen Edition. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20th Month Prior Northwest Edition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20th Month Prior SUBSCRIPTIONS Mailed subscriptions are available, prepaid with order at $42 for one year; and $71 for two years. (Select one edition.) Your cancelled check will serve as your receipt. To order a subscription, call 574-658-4111. ADVERTISING For advertising deadlines call your sales representative. The existence of advertising in Senior Life is not meant as an endorsement of any product, services or individuals by anyone except the advertisers. Signed letters or columns are the opinion of the writers, and not necessarily the opinion of the publishers. To advertise contact Kim Lamley at 260-760-7022 or slallen@the-papers.com. PRODUCTION Senior Life is digitally composed on Macintosh Computers using Digital Technology’s Newspaper Publishing Suite software and Photoshop software. Submit ads as .tif, .eps or .pdf files. ASCII (generic text) may be submitted via email or on CD/DVD. Check our website at www.the-papers.com for guidelines on preparing ads electronically. Graphics for ads can be emailed as PDF files to adcomp@the-papers.com. If you have any questions, give us a call and we’ll walk you through it. REPRINT RIGHTS Reprinting in part or whole of any article in Senior Life is not allowed without express written permission from Senior Life.
RAPTOR RESCUE TEAM — Soarin’ Hawk volunteers Lynne Ostergren, program coordinator and ICU assistant, and Barb Brewer, bird handler and ICU assistant, X-ray a red-tailed hawk to locate injuries. The bird was treated, rehabilitated and released in 2023. Photo provided by Soarin’ Hawk Raptor Rehabilitation Center. Raptor Rehabilitation Center in Huntertown for eight years. Soarin’ Hawk has cared for injured or orphaned birds of prey since 1996. Its work helps conserve the raptor population through public education and rehabilitation. Brewer started by cleaning bird pens, holding birds and doing raptor presentations. Now, she also works in the intensive care unit, drawing up medicine, preparing birds for X-rays, wrapping broken wings and more. “Trying to figure out what’s wrong and then nursing them back to health, it’s very rewarding,” she said. Soarin’ Hawk serves northeast Indiana, northwest Ohio and southern Michigan. The rescue team has traveled to Michigan to save a snowy owl and to Lake Salamonie to save an eagle. Sometimes, the Indiana Department of Natural Resources will meet the team halfway to deliver raptors in need of help. “We get a lot of babies,” Brewer
said. “We have four baby screech owls right now, and I think six baby kestrels that all had to be hand-fed when they came in.” How do raptors become injured or orphaned? Sometimes someone chops down a tree and discovers a nest. Others are hit by cars, fall from nests or become caught in fences. Some are simply young and inexperienced. “We’re going to start getting the red-tailed hawk babies who fledged and goof up,” Brewer said. “We feed them, get them strong, and hopefully we can release them.” What should you do if you find a raptor? “Depending on the bird, we’ll recommend they put a box or a laundry basket over the top of it to protect it from other predators,” Brewer said. “Then call us.” If the bird can’t be contained, Brewer recommends keeping an eye on it. The rescue team may place a young bird in a laundry basket secured to a tree in hopes its mother will return. If she
doesn’t, the bird is brought to Soarin’ Hawk. Raptors include hawks, owls, bald eagles, falcons and vultures. They eat insects, mice, rats, rabbits, fish, snakes and even other birds. Raptors help prevent these animals from overpopulating and can alert scientists to high pesticide levels in the environment. “They’re a part of the whole ecology of our world,” Brewer said. Soarin’ Hawk Raptor Rehabilitation Center offers educational programs for families, children and seniors. Learn more at soarinhawk.org or schedule a Raptor Adventure tour. Contact Lynne at (260) 341-0541 or lynne.o@ soarinhawk.org. Soarin’ Hawk will raise funds for raptor condos during the “Hawk-tion” fundraiser Sept. 1927. Visit 32auctions.org/Hawktion2026. Found a raptor? Call the Raptor Rescue Hotline at (260) 241-0134.
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September 2026 ■ SENIOR LIFE — Allen Edition ■ 5
SPOTLIGHT
ON 2026 SENIOR INFORMATION FAIR SIF brings area seniors and professionals together
SIF brings area seniors and professionals together On Thursday, Sept. 17 Senior Information Fair will hold its annual fair where area seniors can gather to obtain resources and get answers to their questions from experts to assist them in living their best life, whatever age they may be. This year marks the 27th year of helping seniors enrich their lives by providing an event for them to receive resources and answers which enables and empowers them to live healthy and safe lives. The 2026 Senior Information Fair will be held from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Thursday, Sept. 17 at Turnstone Plassman Athletic Center located at 3320 N. Clinton in Fort Wayne. Two speakers are on the schedule to present breakout speaker sessions. The first will be Emily Gorman with AARP speaking on fraud and scams
2026 2026
targeting senior citizens. The first session will begin at 9:15 a.m.; with the second session starting at 10:15 a.m. and featuring Kurt Ness with Ness Bros. Realtors and Auctioneers offering tips on how to start the downsizing process and information about selling personal property a home, working with personal representatives. The fair is specifically organized for those 55 and up, but any age is welcome to attend. Especially seniors, their families, caregivers and individuals looking for services to assist with in-home care, hospice, legal services, relocation, senior residential communities, leisure activities or those looking forward to retirement. Over 100 vendors will be available with their information and to answer questions. Free parking on site for attendees at any one of the Turnstone parking lots. Over-
flow parking will be available at Glenbrook Mall on Coldwater Road where CTN shuttles will transport you to and from Turnstone for the fair. Anyone riding a Citilink bus to the bus stop at Turnstone can show their bus pass at one of the two Senior Information booths to receive a courtesy pass for use at another time. Several vendors will offer free health screenings at their booths. Screenings such as mammograms, blood pressure checks, osteoporosis Dexa scan, hearing, diabetes are just a few available throughout the day. There will also be tours of Turnstone. Other fun activities include Bocce ball, cornhole and shuffleboard. Visitors can enjoy a free lunch while enjoying the day’s entertainment provided by Joe Justice, a well-known local musician who specializes in classic hits from the 60s, 70s, 80s and
2026
SENIOR INFORMATION FAIR Thursday, September 17th
SIF BOARD MEMBERS — Katelyn Sandoval and Tyler Weilbaker 9 a.m. to 22025 p.m. welcomed visitors to the fair. into the 90s. The free lunch will
something for everyone. Be sure
which will ensure they receive lunch. Plan now to attend Senior Information Fair on Thursday, Sept. 17 at Turnstone Plassman Athletic Center. There will be
to win one of several gift cards SIF will be giving away. Some vendors may also offer entries to win door prizes, be sure to check at each booth! Advertorial
to fill out aCenter visitor survey, turn be served starting at 11:30 a.m.Athletic Turnstone Plassman it near the welcome table before Visitors can pick up a lunch you leaveWayne which will enter you either of the SIF booths Fort 3320ticket N.atClinton Street,
SiF enables, empowers and promotes seniors to live healthy and safe lives! SiF is a FREE event open to the public
OVER 100 VENDORS & EXHIBITS
SENIOR HEALTH INFORMATION SCREENINGS FAIR
FREE Parking for Visitors & Attendees Available in Turnstone Parking Lots & at the Glenbrook Mall
FEATURED SPEAKERS Thursday, September TURNSTONE TOURS17th a.m. to 2 p.m. SENIOR9INFORMATION FAIR VALUABLE RESOURCES, INFORMATION & EDUCATIONAL Turnstone Plassman Athletic Center Thursday, September 17th MATERIALS 3320 N. Clinton Street, Fort Wayne 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. FREE LUNCH (WHILE SUPPLIES LAST) LIVE MUSIC Turnstone Plassman Athletic Center
RIDE A CITILINK BUS to the Turnstone bus stop! Bring your Citilink Day Pass to the SiF booth and receive another Day Pass to use at a later time!
SiF enables, empowers and promotes seniors to live healthy and safe lives! FEATURED SPEAKERS ENTERTAINMENT 3320 N. Clinton Street, Fort Wayne FEATURED SPEAKERS ENTERTAINMENT FEATURED SPEAKERS ENTERTAINMENT • OVER 100 VENDORS & EXHIBITS FEATURED SPEAKERS ENTERTAINMENT SiF is a FREE event open to the public OVER 100 VENDORS & EXHIBITS • SCREENINGS SiF enables, empowers and promotes seniors to live healthy and safe lives! HEALTH SCREENINGS FREE Parking for Visitors & Attendees • FEATURED SPEAKERS FEATURED SPEAKERS Available in Turnstone Parking Lots • TURNSTONE TOURS TURNSTONE TOURS SiF is a FREE event&open the publicMall OVER 100 VENDORS & EXHIBITS at thetoGlenbrook SPECIALTY LUNCH &MEDIA EDUCATIONAL PRINT PARTNER GOLD • VALUABLE RESOURCES, INFORMATION VALUABLE RESOURCES, HEALTH SCREENINGS LIVE MUSIC FAMILY FUN FREE Parking for Visitors & Attendees LIVE MUSIC FAMILY FUN FEATURED SPEAKERS INFORMATION & EDUCATIONAL MATERIALS MUSIC FAMILY RIDE A CITILINK JoeLIVE Justice Elvis FUN Available in Turnstone Parking Lots BUS TURNSTONE TOURS Joe Justice Elvis MATERIALS to the Turnstone bus stop! & at the Glenbrook Mall • FREE LUNCH (WHILE SUPPLIES LAST) Joe Justice Elvis VALUABLE RESOURCES, (WHILE SUPPLIES 9:15 a.m. -FREE 10:00 a.m. LUNCH 10:15 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.LAST) • LIVE MUSIC Bring your Citilink Day Pass FUN to the SiF booth and LIVE MUSIC FAMILY Fraud:INFORMATION The Scam Landscape & EDUCATIONAL Chaos to Comfort:
THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS! 9:15 a.m. - 10:00 a.m.
10:15 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
9:15The a.m. - 10:00 a.m. Fraud: Scam Landscape 9:15 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. Safe Fraud:and TheStaying Scam Landscape
10:15 a.m. 11:00 a.m. Chaos to-Comfort: 10:15 a.m.Easy - 11:00 a.m. Downsizing Made Chaos to Comfort: Fraud: The Scam Landscape Downsizing Comfort: Emily Gorman Kurt Chaos Ness and Staying Safe MadetoEasy Downsizing and Staying Safe Made Easy AARP Ness Bros. Realtors & Emily Gorman Kurt Ness Kurt Ness AARP Emily Gorman NessAuctioneers Bros. Realtors & AARP
LIVE MUSIC
and Staying Safe
RIDE A CITILINK BUSPass to use at a later time! receive another Day toJoe the Turnstone bus stop! Justice Elvis
Downsizing Made Easy
MATERIALS Emily Gorman Kurt Ness Ness Bros. AARPLUNCH (WHILE SUPPLIES Realtors & LAST) FREE Auctioneers LIVE MUSIC
SILVER
Bring your Citilink Day Pass to the SiF booth and receive another Day Pass to use at a later time!
THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS!
HEALTH SCREENINGS LUNCH GOLD THANK YOU TOOtoscopic OUR Ear SPONSORS! Blood Pressure Wax Screening LUNCH Stroke Risk Assessment
GOLD DEXA Scan (Bone Density) Glucose Screening Hearing Screening
SILVER
Therapeutic Hand Massages
SILVER
Immunizations (Flu, COVID, Shingles, Pneumonia, RSV, TDAP)
Mammography
MEDIA
MEDIA
Ness Bros. Realtors & Auctioneers
Auctioneers
HEALTH SCREENINGS VENDOR AND VOLUNTEER HEALTH SCREENINGS HEALTH SCREENINGS Otoscopic Ear Wax Screening Otoscopic Wax Screening Otoscopic Ear Ear Wax Screening BREAKFAST Stroke Risk Assessment SPONSOR Stroke Risk Assessment Stroke Risk Assessment
Blood Pressure Blood Pressure Blood Pressure DEXA Scan (Bone Density) DEXA Scan Density) (Bone Density) DEXA Scan (Bone Glucose Screening Glucose Screening Glucose Screening SPECIALTY PRINT PARTNER HearingHearing Screening Screening Hearing Screening
BRONZE Immunizations (Flu, COVID, Immunizations (Flu, COVID,
SPECIALTY PRINT PARTNER
VENDOR AND VOLUNTEER
BREAKFAST SPONSOR
VENDOR AND VOLUNTEER
Vital Signs Screening BREAKFAST
Shingles, Pneumonia, RSV, TDAP) Immunizations (Flu, COVID, Shingles, Pneumonia, RSV, TDAP) Shingles, Pneumonia, RSV, TDAP)
Mammography Mammography Mammography
Therapeutic Hand Massages Therapeutic Hand Massages Therapeutic Hand Massages VitalVital Signs Screening Signs Screening Vital Signs Screening TourTour of Your EarEar of Your Tour of Your Ear
OVERFLOW PARKING AVAILABLE OVERFLOW PARKING AVAILABLE
OVERFLOW PARKING AVAILABLE www.seniorfair.info SPONSOR Overflow parking will be available at the Glenbrook Mall off Coldwater Road. BRONZETour of Your Ear Overflow parking beon available at the Glenbrook Mall off Coldwater Road. Enter at the trafficwill light Coldwater or off Fernhill Ave. near McMahon Tire. seniorinformationfair@gmail.com BRONZE Enter at the traffic light on Coldwater or off Fernhill Ave. near McMahon Tire. Use parking lot north of McMahon Tire - parking signs will be posted day Use parking north of McMahon Tire - parking signs willTurnstone. be posted day of event and lot a CTN shuttle will transport you to and from 260-209-4173 of event and a CTN shuttle will transport you to and from Turnstone. Overflow parking will be available at the Glenbrook Mall off Coldwater Road. Enter at the traffic light on Coldwater or off Fernhill Ave. near McMahon Tire.
Use parking lot north of McMahon Tire - parking signs will be posted day of event and a CTN shuttle will transport you to and from Turnstone.
OVERFLOW PARKING AVAILABLE www.seniorfair.info
www.seniorfair.info seniorinformationfair@gmail.com Overflow parking will be available at the Glenbrook Mall off Coldwater Road. seniorinformationfair@gmail.com Enter at the traffic light on Coldwater or off Fernhill Ave. near McMahon Tire. 260-209-4173 260-209-4173 Use parking lot north of McMahon Tire - parking signs will be posted day of event and a CTN shuttle will transport you to and from Turnstone.
Want to become a vendor?
Want Learn to become a vendor? more and submit your Want registration to become vendor? onlineaor send us an email. Learn more and submit your Learn more online and submit your registration or send us an email. registration online or send us an email.
www.seniorfair.info
www.seniorfair.info seniorinformationfair@gmail.com www.seniorfair.info seniorinformationfair@gmail.com 260-209-4173 seniorinformationfair@gmail.com 260-209-4173 260-209-4173
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6 ■ SENIOR LIFE — Allen Edition ■ September 2026
Fixated on handyman My doctor’s office isn’t very modern. I don’t mean the scientific knowledge or the high-tech diagnostic tools in IN A his office. NUTSHELL I’m talking By DICK about the WOLFSIE magazines in the waiting room. Recently, I got the chance to read the last print edition of Newsweek from 2012. Last year, I also breezed through Life magazine right before my EKG. One piece of reading material that caught my attention was “Family Handyman.” Here were the cover stories: • “Measure once, panic twice.” • “My drill keeps screwing around.” • “I built a gate and, yes, I nailed it.” • “Why my door and I are both off our hinges.” The lead story was “Five Great Sawhorse Designs.” I couldn’t wait to read it because, off the top of my
head, I could think of only four, none of which they mentioned in the article. Also on the cover was “How to Make a Screw Organizer From a Leftover Piece of PVC Pipe.” I didn’t want to read too much exciting stuff like this since it can temporarily raise your blood pressure before they slap the cuff on you. I turned to a feature story about what to do if your Gorilla Glue gets hard in the tube and another on how to dig post holes in sandy soil. I read both carefully. After 46 years, Mary Ellen and I are always looking for something new to talk about. This is my favorite: There was a three-page spread on “How to Cure a Sick Ceiling Fan.” “What would the fan be complaining of? Periodic dizziness? One piece was called “Best Advice for DIYers.” I thought it was about how to successfully drink beer and drill at the same time. Then I learned that a DIYer is a do-it-yourselfer. Another entry was titled “How to Make a Hidden Cutting Board.” I can never find ours when we need it, so I decided to skip that kitchen improvement project.
“Maintaining Your Chimney” begins with a list of what you’ll need to do the job - items found around most houses. You need brushable crown sealer, chimney water repellent and a stainless-steel chimney cap. I had all of that in the garage except for the brushable crown sealer, the chimney water repellent and a stainless-steel chimney cap. Another article started: “Trying to run fish tape through an insulated stud bay can be a nightmare.” You have to have a pretty dull imagination if this is what you have bad dreams about. The regular monthly column was “How to Make Your Own Tools,” a great way to save money. The author showed how to take a long, flexible piece of tubing and attach a flashlight at the end for working in dark, hard-toreach places, as in a do-ityourself plumbing project. It was really a clever gadget, but I tore the page out and threw it away. My next colonoscopy is coming up later in 2026, and with all the cost cutting in medicine, the fewer doctors who know about this, the better.
TENDING TO THE GARDEN — Brenda Willis and a team of a dozen volunteers tend to the produce garden at Salomon Farm Park.
HISTORY LIVES Continued from page 1
to be able to share that with the community,” said Hoffman, who grew up on a cattle farm. “It’s especially exciting for younger children when they are interacting with these animals, maybe for the first time in their lives.” The Fort Wayne charter chapter of Gardeners of America has been meeting and volunteering at the park for 11 years. The club learned of the park when it was seeking a new home for its monthly meetings. “Salomon Farm provided us with the perfect venue, amid gardens and farm critters, lots of parking, accessibility, video capabilities, a kitchen and storage area and extremely helpful staff,” said former chapter President Jeri Kornegay.
Meetings are held the second Thursday of most months at the Wolf Family Learning Center. Meetings begin with a gardener-focused lecture. “The knowledge is incredibly diverse and the fellowship is huge,” Kornegay said. The learning center is also used for afternoon cooking classes designed especially for seniors who are looking for something to do, Harris said. The fall schedule includes classes such as an introduction to Indian cooking, desserts, yeast breads, bone broth with egg noodles and more. For more information about the park, visit the Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department’s website, cityoffortwayne. in.gov/955/Salomon-Farm-Park.
Professional Forum Interested Businesses Call Kim Lamley 260-760-7022 A Monthly Question And Answer Advertorial Column
Medicare Insurance
Maintenance Tips Fall Vehicle Maintenance Tips
Q. Can I get hearing aids through my Medicare Plan? A. Unfortunately, Original Medicare
does not cover the cost of hearing aids or the exams for “fitting” them. Medicare does cover diagnostic hearing and balance exams; one audiologist visit per year; cochlear implants; and bone-anchored hearing aids (surgically implanted). The best and most common way to obtain coverage for hearing aids is through a Medicare Advantage plan. Private insurance companies will often include “extra” benefits in their Medicare Advantage plans which can include hearing aids. Since plans vary, it is best to annually review the Medicare Advantage options to determine the plan that will give you the best benefit when you need to obtain new hearing aids.
Before you embark on your fall adventures, here are some key vehicle maintenance tasks to consider as the weather cools down:
Michelle Walters
Executive Vice President Another option would be over-thecounter (OTC) hearing aids. Since 2022, the Food & Drug Administration (FDA) established this category to allow adults over age 18 to purchase OTC hearing aids without a prescription. Many large retailers have them available for purchase. Questions about how your Medicare plan covers hearing aids? We’re here to answer them! Give us a call at (260) 484-7010.
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1. Check Your Tires Falling temperatures can cause tire pressure to drop. Make sure your tires are properly inflated and have enough tread for those scenic drives. Consider swapping to all-season or winter tires if you expect to encounter icy or wet roads. 2. Battery Health Colder weather can affect your car’s battery performance. Have your battery tested to ensure it’s ready for fall and winter, so you’re not caught off guard. 3. Inspect Your Wipers and Lights With shorter days and unpredictable fall weather, it’s crucial to have clear visibility. Check your windshield wipers for wear and tear, and make sure all lights — headlights, brake lights and turn signals — are working properly. This is also a great time to make sure
RUSS YOUNG you have winter essentials like an ice scraper, water and blankets in case of an emergency. 4. Test Your Brakes Fall often brings wet leaves and slippery roads. Ensure your brakes are in good condition to handle these seasonal challenges. 5. Check Your Fluids From oil to coolant, make sure all fluids are topped off and ready for the drop in temperature. Proper maintenance will keep your vehicle running smoothly and efficiently.
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Hours of Operation: The shop follows a consistent schedule throughout the work week: Monday – Friday: 7:30 AM – 4:30 PM / Saturday – Sunday: Closed
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September 2026 ■ SENIOR LIFE — Allen Edition ■ 7
Elder Law
DEMENTIA DEMENTIA EDUCATION EDUCATION
Q. If I don’t have a Will, does the State take your property?
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A.
No, if you don’t have a Will the State of Indiana essentially makes a Will for you through its intestate succession statute. This statute dictates Dementia Dementia Dementia isisisaisaapersonal personal journey; journey; journey; your your your Dementia apersonal personal journey; your Todd Todd Todd Hunnicutt Hunnicutt ToddHunnicutt Hunnicutt parent parent parent will will will move move move through through through the the the stages stages stages ofofof parent will move through the stages of who will receive your property if you dementia dementia dementia atatatat their their their own own own pace. pace. pace. Their Their Their ability ability ability totototo dementia their own pace. Their ability die without a Will. The intent behind Dementia Dementia Dementia Outreach Outreach Outreach Specialist Specialist Specialist Dementia Outreach Specialist communicate communicate communicate will will will change change change significantly significantly significantly communicate will change significantly it is to distribute your property to your through through through the the the early, early, early, middle middle middle and and and late late late stages. stages. stages. through the early, middle and late stages. InInInthe late late stage, stage, your your parent parent may may not not the late stage, your parent may not family. The State only receives your Inthe the late stage, your parent may not The The The following following following strategies strategies strategies from from from the the the Alzheimer’s Alzheimer’s Alzheimer’s The following strategies from the Alzheimer’s recognize recognize you. you. ItItisItis totototo face face recognize you. important face recognize you. Itisimportant isimportant important face property if every avenue of the statute is Association Association Association can can can help help help make make make the the the process process process ofofof Association can help make the process of them them when speaking them. have when speaking totototo them. IfIfyou have them when speaking them. IfIfyou you have them when speaking them. you have taken and no person has been found. communication less frustrating for both ofofof you. communication communication less less frustrating frustrating for for both both you. you. communication less frustrating for both of you.trouble trouble understanding what they are understanding what they are trouble understanding what they are trouble understanding what they are The general succession of the statute trying say, encourage them point oror trying totototo say, encourage them totototo point or trying say, encourage them point trying say, encourage them point or InInInthe early stage, an individual may repeat the early early stage, stage, an an individual individual may may repeat repeat Inthe the early stage, an individual may repeat gesture. is spouse and children, other descengesture. It’s okok don’t know what It’s ok ififyou don’t know what totototo gesture. It’s ifyou don’t know what gesture. It’s ok ifyou you don’t know what stories, feel overwhelmed by excessive stories, stories, feel feel overwhelmed overwhelmed by by excessive excessive stories, feel overwhelmed by excessive dants, parents, siblings, grandparents, say, your presence important. say, your presence isisismost important. say, your presence most important. say, your presence ismost most important. stimulation or have trouble finding the right stimulation stimulation oror have have trouble trouble finding finding the the right right stimulation or have trouble finding the right aunts/uncles, cousins and on through word. Take time totototo listen totototo your parent as word. word. Take Take time time listen listen your your parent parent asas word. Take time listen your parent as AIHS AIHS offers dementiaoffers aaanumber ofofof dementiaAIHS offers number dementiathe family tree. It is extremely unlikely AIHS offers anumber number of dementiathey express their thoughts, feelings and they they express express their their thoughts, thoughts, feelings feelings and and they express their thoughts, feelings and specific services and supports. To learn specific services and supports. To learn specific services and supports. To learn specific services and supports. To learn that after going through your entire needs. Give them plenty ofofof time totototo respond. needs. needs. Give Give them them plenty plenty time time respond. respond. needs. Give them plenty of time respond. more, more, visit www.agingihs.org. visit www.agingihs.org. more, visit www.agingihs.org. more, visit www.agingihs.org.
Heidi B. Adair
A. A. A. A.
The middle stage can last for many years. The The middle middle stage stage can can last last for for many many years. years. The middle stage can last for many years. Ask simple yes or no questions and ask them Ask Ask simple simple yes yes oror no no questions questions and and ask ask them them Ask simple yes or no questions and ask them one question atatatat aaatime. For example, “Would one one question question time. For For example, example, “Would “Would one question atime. time. For example, “Would you like some coffee?” rather than “What you you like like some some coffee?” coffee?” rather rather than than “What “What you like some coffee?” rather than “What would you like totototo drink?” would would you you like like drink?” drink?” would you like drink?”
Attorney at Law
family tree that there would be no one to take your property. However, the best plan is to have a valid Will to help you accomplish your desires for your property. Intestate law is difficult to navigate and can unintentionally be more harmful than helpful in estate planning. It is important to speak with an attorney to ensure your wishes are carried out the way you want. Suite 1100 110 West Berry Street Fort Wayne, Indiana 46802 Telephone (260) 426-9706
DISCLAIMER: Heidi B. Adair and Beers Mallers, LLP Attorneys At Law, appreciate the opportunity to provide insight into legal topics of interest. The content of this article is designed to provide information of general interest to the public and is not intended to offer legal advice about specific situations or problems. Heidi B. Adair and Beers Mallers, LLP Attorneys At Law, do not intend to create an attorney-client relationship by offering this information, and anyone’s review of the information shall not be deemed to create such a relationship. You should consult a lawyer if you have a legal matter requiring attention. Heidi B. Adair and Beers Mallers, LLP Attorneys At Law, also advise that any information you send to this newsletter shall not be deemed secure or confidential. Please visit our office to ensure complete confidentiality.
8101 W. Jefferson Blvd. Fort Wayne, IN 46804 8101 W. Jefferson Blvd. Fort Wayne, IN 46804 8101 W. Jefferson Blvd. Fort Wayne, IN 46804 8101 W. Jefferson Blvd. Fort Wayne, IN 46804 www.agingihs.org www.agingihs.org |||260.745.1200 www.agingihs.org 260.745.1200 www.agingihs.org |260.745.1200 260.745.1200
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Senior Relocation
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Q. Where are Senior Life Newspapers distributed? A. Each Senior Life Newspaper is dis-
tributed to over 300 locations each month and is free for public pickup and supported by advertisers. Locations for distribution are chosen with the 50+ aged person in mind and include grocery stores, libraries, senior centers, restaurants, senior communities, banks, gas stations, apartment complexes, doctor offices, drug stores, farmer’s markets, resale locations, churches, convenient stores, and retail stores. There are four distinct issues of Senior Life Newspaper including: • Allen — including Allen, Adams, DeKalb, Huntington, Noble, Wells and Whit-
Kim Lamley,
Account Executive ley counties • Elko — including Elkhart, Kosciusko, LaGrange, Noble and Wabash counties. • Northwest — including Lake, Porter counties in IN and Cook county in IL • St. Joseph — including LaPorte, Marshall and St. Joseph counties in IN and Berrien and Cass counties in MI Call today for more information on how we can help your business reach the Senior Life loyal audience. Serving Fort Wayne and Surrounding Counties 260-760-7022 slallen@the-papers.com
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8 ■ SENIOR LIFE — Allen Edition ■ September 2026
Sports
Parkview Seniors Club steps it up By LINDA LIPP Feature Writer If you’re at least 55 and have ever had a hankering to learn the boot-scootin’ boogie, here’s your chance. The Parkview Seniors Club now offers line dancing lessons for club members on Thursdays at the Park Center gymnasium, 909 E. State Blvd., Fort Wayne. It’s one of the 40-year-old club’s newer programs designed to help seniors stay fit and healthy in body and mind. Carol Garcia is one of the enthusiastic participants. “Both of my parents had dementia … my mother was actually diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. So for me, the chances of getting it are pretty high,” Garcia said. Experts recommend several ways to keep the brain healthy and active and potentially reduce the risk of dementia, including learning new things, exercising and getting plenty of social interaction. “Dancing takes care of all three,” Garcia said. “Because you’re moving, it’s social and it’s fun.” The line dancing classes augment other, more tradition-
al exercise programs offered Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays by instructor Jim Thurber. “We know that balance and strength training are really important to seniors,” said Lori VanCamp, seniors club well-being coordinator. Moves are adjusted as needed to accommodate participants with balance and mobility issues and other physical challenges. The Parkview Seniors Club currently is in a rebuilding phase, VanCamp said. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, the club had 2,000 members and operated its own offices and gym on the Randalia hospital campus. During the pandemic, some virtual classes were offered to members, but participation dwindled. The club now has about 700 members, and activities are held in rented or reserved spaces such as Park Center and the Parkview Greenhouse classroom. VanCamp came to the club from the Center for Healthy Living in Kendallville. She initially worked part time with the seniors group before moving to a full-time position
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two years ago. VanCamp is open to suggestions from members about activities they would like to try. If a member suggests an activity, as was the case with line dancing, she tries to make it happen. That meant first learning about line dancing online so she could teach it to club members. “We always focus on adapting so even those sitting can do it,” VanCamp said. That may mean smaller steps and no fast turns, for example. “We keep our audience and our members in mind,” she said. The club also partners with other organizations to offer senior-oriented programs. This summer, it used a parks and recreation department pool to offer a water aerobics class. “We also do tours at the library, bingo, birthday parties and special events every one or two months,” VanCamp said. A weekly “Train the Brain” class, featuring puzzles and games, focuses on mental fitness. Club membership costs about $25 a year. Activities usually require no additional fees, unless a small amount is needed for supplies. A bimonthly members’ newsletter also is part of the membership. VanCamp hopes to step up marketing efforts to bring in new members in the coming months. The club will have a booth at the annual Senior Information Fair Thursday, Sept. 17, at the Plassman Athletic Center Fieldhouse at Turnstone. Additional information about the club is available online at parkview.com/medical-services/senior-services/ parkview-seniors-club.
BODY AND MIND — Carol Garcia joins in a fitness and strength building class offered by the Parkview Seniors Club. Photo by Linda Lipp.
Leave a legacy of compassion during write a will week By BONNIE BLACKBURN-PENHOLLOW Director of Communications Stillwater Hospice Many people think wills are only for those who have a lot of money. That is simply not true. Every adult should have a will, regardless of age, income or net worth. A will helps ensure your wishes are known, protects the people you love and can make things easier for your family during a difficult time. This October, Stillwater Hospice is participating in Write a Will Week to help community members take this important step. Volunteer attorneys will
12523 Auburn Road Fort Wayne, IN evergreenvillage-fortwayne.com
SERVICES • Ongoing health monitoring and nursing assessments • Assistance with activities for daily living: bathing, dressing, walking, personal grooming and hygiene • Medication administration • Three restaurant-style meals daily plus snacks • 24-hour staffing and reception desk • Range of interesting and varied programs and events • Medicaid Waiver accepted
Call 260-637-2830 today to schedule a tour of our beautiful community!
be available at Stillwater Hospice to help individuals create or update a simple will. Participants who choose to include a charitable bequest to a nonprofit organization can have a basic will prepared at no charge. A charitable bequest is a gift made through a will. It allows you to support causes that matter to you without affecting your finances today. You can choose to leave a specific amount, a percentage of your estate or other assets. For those who choose to include Stillwater Hospice in their estate plans, the impact can be felt for years to come. As a nonprofit hospice, Stillwater depends on community support to provide compassionate care, grief services, caregiver support and other programs for families throughout northeast Indiana. Legacy gifts help ensure this care remains available for future generations. Donors who remember Stillwater Hospice in their wills are welcomed into Josephine’s Society, a special group recognizing individuals who have made a commitment to the future of hospice care in the community. If you have been putting off creating a will, now is the perfect time to act. Write a Will Week makes the process easy and affordable while giving you an opportunity to leave a lasting legacy. To schedule an appointment with a participating attorney, contact Kaitlin Sanders-Krieger at Stillwater Hospice at (260) 435-3252 or KaitlinSanders-Krieger@stillwater-hospice. org. Protect your loved ones, honor your wishes and help ensure compassionate care for generations to come.
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September 2026 ■ SENIOR LIFE — Allen Edition ■ 9
Apple crisp, family memories and the joy of sharing By COLEEN ARRIBASPLATA Director of Marketing Golden Years Homestead As summer gives way to fall, few things evoke the season quite like the aroma of apples and cinnamon baking in the oven. For Golden Years Homestead resident Chris Hartman, apple crisp is much more than a favorite dessert. It’s a recipe filled with memories, family traditions and opportunities to care for others. “It reminds me of my mother’s rhubarb crisp,” Hartman said. “Just with a different fruit.” Hartman has been making her apple crisp recipe for more than 50 years, after discovering it during a community cooking demonstration shortly after microwave ovens became popular. Over the years, she adapted the recipe, making it uniquely her own. “You get your hands in there,” she said with a smile, describing the buttery oat topping that has become a family favorite. Apples have always been part of her life. Her brother-in-law owns Hartman Orchard near Fort Wayne, giving the family access to a wide variety of fresh apples each fall. Through the years, she’s learned that choosing the right variety makes all the difference, with Yellow Delicious and Jonathan apples among her favorites for baking crisp.
But for Hartman, the recipe has never been just about the ingredients. Some of her fondest memories come from cooking alongside family members and sharing homemade desserts with people she cares about. Recently, she prepared apple crisps for several women in the community who had lost their husbands, hoping a simple homemade treat would bring comfort during a difficult time. “It’s a really nice one to share,” Hartman said. That generous spirit reflects what makes life at Golden Years Homestead so special. Residents build friendships through shared experiences, whether gathering around a meal, participating in activities or simply checking in on neighbors. Small acts of kindness often create the strongest sense of community. As another autumn approaches, Chris knows the familiar scent of apples and cinnamon will once again fill kitchens with warmth. More importantly, it will bring back memories of family, friendships and the joy that comes from sharing something homemade. At Golden Years Homestead, those simple moments are part of everyday life, creating a community where traditions continue, new friendships grow and residents find countless opportunities to make lasting memories together.
THE GOLDEN YEARS — From left are Golden Years Homestead residents Cheryl Williams, Chris Hartman, Kathy Meyer, and Ruth Evans sharing homemade apple crisp and conversation. Photo provided by Golden Years Homestead.
Aging At Home: Knowing when a little help can make a big difference By NICHOLE PARKISON Operations Director Cornerstone Caregiving For many older adults, home represents comfort, independence, memories and familiarity. As we age, however, everyday tasks that once seemed simple can become more challenging. The good news is that needing additional help does not necessarily mean giving up the ability to remain at home. Nonmedical home care can provide seniors and their fam-
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ilies with an extra set of hands while helping older adults maintain their routines and independence. Caregivers can assist with meal preparation, light housekeeping, bathing and dressing, transportation, errands, companionship and mobility. Families often wonder, “How do I know when it’s time to consider help?” Signs may include increased falls or unsteadiness, missed meals, changes in personal hygiene, isolation, difficulty managing daily tasks or family members becoming
overwhelmed by caregiving responsibilities. Choosing the right home care provider is just as important as deciding when to seek help. At Cornerstone Caregiving, we believe quality care begins with quality caregivers. Our caregivers are trained and certified professionals prepared to provide more than basic companionship. We also provide client-specific training based on individual care needs, including specialized education in Alzheimer’s and dementia Continued on page 10
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10 ■ SENIOR LIFE — Allen Edition ■ September 2026
Dining/Leisure/Entertainment
Train excursions for all ages & all seasons By LORETTA KOSLOSKE Ridership Specialist Hoosier Valley Railroad Museum
Experience the sights and sounds of a bygone era while visiting the Hoosier Valley Railroad Museum, located in North Judson. Regular train excursions run every Saturday, May through September, and for special holiday events. Passengers have a choice of riding in open-air sightseeing cars or vintage coaches while rolling down the tracks through the Northwest Indiana countryside. Train excursions are round-trip from the depot and travel about five miles to the Kankakee River at English Lake, before returning to North Judson. The total length of each trip is approximately 45 minutes. The Hoosier Valley Railroad Museum has an exciting schedule of special events planned for the remainder
of 2026. Ice Cream Trains combine two old-fashioned favorites - homemade ice cream and trains. Autumn brings Pumpkin Trains, stopping at a pumpkin patch, while Santa Trains run in late November & December. Times and prices may vary for different events, so be sure to check the website at www. hoosiervalley.org. Remember that seating is limited, and it is recommended to purchase tickets, in advance, before excursions sell out. Before or after a train excursion, be sure to visit the museum and grounds where admission is always free. The Hoosier Valley Railroad Museum has one of the largest museum collections of working railroad signals and a restored World War II Pullman Troop Car. Stroll around the grounds to see all types of rolling stock, engines, and railroading memorabilia. HVRM is an all-volunteer,
2026 Senior Saints Public Concert Schedule Updates are posted at GrabillMC.org/seniorsaints
Saturday, August 8 • 2:00 p.m. • Headwaters Church 2000 N. Wells St., Fort Wayne, IN 46808 | 260-489-4942 | Park Directly Off Wells St. Door 4
Monday, August 10 • 12:30 p.m. • Emmanuel Community Church 12222 US 24, Fort Wayne, IN 46814 | 260-672-3377 | Door 2 Worship Center
Tuesday, August 11 • 1:00 p.m. • College Park Church 1945 College Ave., Huntington, IN 46750 | 260-356-2642 | Enter Door #2 On Opal St.
Sunday, August 23 • 6:30 p.m. • Leo Apostolic Church 11714 Grabill Rd., Leo, IN 46765 | 260-627-2944
Thursday, August 27 • 2:30 p.m. • Decatur Church of God 1129 Mercer Ave., Decatur, IN 46733 | 260-724-2580
Thursday, September 10 • 12:15 p.m. • First Assembly Church 1400 W. Washington Center Rd., Fort Wayne, IN 46825 | 260-490-8585 | Door 5
Thursday, September 17 • 7:00 p.m. • Huber Opera House 157 E. High St., Hicksville, OH 43526 | 419-542-9553
Sunday, September 27 • 6:00 p.m. • Grabill Missionary Church 13637 State St., Grabill, IN 46765 | 260-627-3678
Marsha Wright, Director | mnotes@aol.com
not-for-profit organization dedicated to the preservation and education of railroading history. Special group events (including school groups) can be arranged by contacting the depot. Visit the Hoosier Valley Railroad Museum website (hoosiervalley.org) for a complete schedule of events. Order tickets at hoosiervalley. org or call the depot (574) 896-3950 on Saturdays or days when train excursions are scheduled.
TAKE A TRIP TO YESTERYEAR — The Hoosier Valley Railroad Museum, located in North Judson, offe regular train excurions every Saturday May through September. Shown is one of the trains going over the Kankakee River. Photo provided by Hoosier Valley Railroad.
Stroll Walking Club -
Healthy movement, meaningful connection By ANGELA MIX Founder and CEO Stroll Walking Club Staying active as we age doesn’t have to mean joining a gym, running a 5K or completely changing our lifestyle. Sometimes, it starts with something much simpler: putting on a comfortable pair of shoes, stepping outside and taking a walk. Walking can support strength, balance, mobility and overall well being. But there’s another benefit that matters just as much - the opportunity to connect. For many older adults, staying active can become harder when there isn’t someone to do it with. Transportation can
also become a barrier, and even the best intentions can fade without a reason to get out the door. That’s the idea behind Stroll Walking Club, a Fort Waynebased senior wellness company built around two simple things: healthy movement and meaningful connection. Stroll brings small groups of older adults together for enjoyable, guided walks in the community. And because getting there shouldn’t be the hardest part, Stroll Guides provide door-to-door pickup and drop-off for members. There’s so much more to a Stroll than the walk itself. It’s conversation. It’s meeting someone new. It’s having something on the calendar to look
forward to. It’s laughing along the way and returning home knowing you did something good for yourself. As we think about healthy aging, perhaps we should expand the conversation beyond exercise alone. Staying well also means staying engaged, maintaining relationships and continuing to be part of the community around us. You don’t have to walk fast. You don’t have to walk far. And you certainly don’t have to walk alone. Sometimes, the first step toward feeling better is simply having someone there to take that step with you. For more information, visit strollwalkingclub.com or call (260) 209-4290.
Miami Indian Heritage Days continues Sept. 5 The History Center will present Miami Indian Heritage Days from 1- 4 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 5, at the Chief Richardville House, 5705 Bluffton Road, Fort Wayne. The program highlights the enduring heritage of the Miami and other regional Native American groups. Local artists, performers and presenters will be featured on the first Saturday of
each month from May through November. Claudia Hedeen will present a program Sept. 5 on Miami Akaawiaki, or quillwork. The Chief Richardville House, also known as akima pinšiwa awiiki, is recognized as the oldest Native American structure in the Midwest. Admission includes a guided tour of the National Historic Landmark.
RIDE the RAILS I N
N O R T H
J U D S O N ,
I N D I A N A
TAKE A RELAXING COUNTRYSIDE EXCURSION!
Admission is $9 for adults and $7 for youth and seniors. History Center members and children age 2 and younger are admitted free. The remaining 2026 schedule includes: • Wiikiaami Cattail Matting with Miami Indian Alliance of Miami Indians, 1-4 p.m. Oct. 3. • Traders Days, featuring traditional crafts, goods and wares, along with hands-on demonstrations and interactive educational programs is from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Nov. 7 and noon to 4 p.m. Nov. 8. Admission is free. For more information, contact the History Center at (260) 4262882 or visit fwhistorycenter.org.
Aging At Continued from page 9
GREAT FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY! VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR COMPLETE SCHEDULES:
www.hoosiervalley.org
574-896-3950 OPEN SATURDAYS ONLY 9 AM - 4 PM CDT
care, hospice support and other circumstances that may require additional knowledge and preparation. Our goal is to thoughtfully match each client with a caregiver equipped to support their individual needs, preferences and routines. If you’re beginning to wonder whether additional help could benefit you or someone you love, start the conversation early. Planning before a crisis can help families make confident decisions centered on what matters most: safety, dignity, quality of life and independence at home.
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September 2026 ■ SENIOR LIFE — Allen Edition ■ 11
UPDATES & HAPPENINGS IN THE AREA Editor’s note: Send listings of events, for nonprofit organizations only, to Senior Life, P.O. Box 188, Milford, IN 46542, or email Editor Phoebe Muthart by the 20th of every month at pmuthart@the-papers.com. With the listing, include the contact person, area code and phone number. —o— Pueblo Garden: Styles of the Southwest: Through Nov. 15, public hours at Foellinger-Freimann Botanical Conservatory, 1100 S. Calhoun St., Fort Wayne. Journey into the heart of the Southwest’s botanical heritage this summer and fall. Delight your senses with earthy aromas, vibrant hues and soothing sounds that transport you to a land where tradition meets contemporary design. Encounter adobe-inspired structures and Pueblo gardening techniques, showcasing the resourcefulness and wisdom of indigenous communities. Immerse yourself in a breathtaking botanical display where Southwestern culture comes to life through the timeless beauty of Pueblo style. Sponsored by the English Bonter Mitchell Foundation, Fort Wayne Park Foundation and the O’Rourke-Schof Family Foundation. —o— The Foellinger-Freimann Botanical Conservatory, 1100
S. Calhoun St., Fort Wayne, is featuring “Touching Grass,” an exhibition by Jeremy Stroup, through Nov. 15 during public hours. The exhibit celebrates nature, memory and the sensory experiences of the world around us, encouraging visitors to step away from screens and reconnect with nature. The exhibition is included with regular admission. —o— Tread the Trails at 6 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 3, at Buckner Park, 6114 Bass Road, Fort Wayne. Meet for a 1-mile or 5K run, walk or wheelchair route. There is no cost to participate. All experience levels are welcome, and participation is at your own risk. Tread the Trails is presented by the City of Fort Wayne, Fort Wayne Trails Inc. and the Fort Wayne Running Club. Follow the City of Fort Wayne, Fort Wayne Trails, Fort Wayne Running Club and Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation on social media for weather-related updates. For a complete list of locations and dates, visit the Tread the Trails website. —o— Foellinger Theatre presents “Ninja Kidz Live: Infinite Possibilities” Friday, Sept. 4; pre-show activities begin at 4:30 p.m.; show at 6:30 p.m. at
Franke Park, 3411 Sherman Blvd., Fort Wayne. YouTube stars Ninja Kidz bring their action-packed live adventure to Foellinger Theatre. Featuring siblings Bryton, Ashton, Paxton and Payton, the show includes martial arts, gymnastics, games, physical challenges, audience participation and epic battles. Beginning at 4:30 p.m., ticket-holding families can enjoy free arcade games, activities and demonstrations. A ninja-themed concession menu will be available for purchase. Tickets are available online, at the Fort Wayne Parks and Recreation Department, 705 E. State Blvd., and at the Foellinger Theatre Box Office beginning at 6 p.m. the day of the show. Presenting sponsor: 97.3 WMEE. —o— Riverfront Fort Wayne Film Night: “Jumanji” Friday, Sept. 4, at sunset at Promenade Park, 202 W. Superior St., Fort Wayne. The Riverfront will become an open-air theater this fall as Riverfront Fort Wayne presents a series of free outdoor movie nights. The series begins Friday, Sept. 4, with a showing of “Jumanji,” followed by “Jungle Cruise” on Sept. 26 and “The Nightmare Before Christmas” on Oct. 16. Moviegoers can bring
a blanket or lawn chair and enjoy the film on the Auer Lawn as the sun sets. The event is free and open to the public. Series sponsor: HOT 107.9. —o— Fort Wayne Flax and Fleecers Guild meets to learn and share about the art of hand spinning and related fiber arts. Guild meetings are held from 6:30 to 9 p.m. the second Tuesday of each month at the Salomon Farm Wolf Family Learning Center, 817 W. Dupont Road, Fort Wayne. Meetings are free and open to the public. Annual guild membership is available. The Sept. 8 meeting will feature crochet amigurumi tips and tricks. For more information, email fwflaxandfleecersguild@gmail.com or visit the guild’s Facebook page.
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The Family History and Genealogy Workshop will meet on the third Wednesday of each month. The next meeting will be Wednesday, Sept. 16, at 1 p.m. in The Genealogy Center of the Allen County Public Library in downtown Fort Wayne. The topic will be researching legal documents, including birth certificates, marriage licenses, death certificates and tax records. The sessions are free and open to everyone. No registration is required. —o— The Family Tree Users Group will meet on the third Wednesday of each month. The next meeting will be Wednesday, Sept. 16, at 2:15 p.m. in The Genealogy Center of the Allen County Public
Fort Wayne Northeast
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12 ■ SENIOR LIFE — Allen Edition ■ September 2026
Faith
Woman launches Christian TV show By CATHY SHOUSE Feature Writer
Valerie Juillerat never imagined she would become the founder of a Christian television show in her 50s. She has simply shared her faith in every way she can since being baptized at age 10. In June, “Faith Written Forward,” which she produces in Fort Wayne, made its debut as a national television program. “I had a Bible study leader once call me an evangelist, because I was always trying to find ways to get people in front of Jesus,” Juillerat said. “Filling the car with friends or kids to go to Christian concerts, special events at church or inviting them to Sunday service. From a young age, I wanted people to know Jesus the way I did.” Both of her grandfathers were pastors. She was baptized by her grandfather, the Rev. Virgil Juillerat of Sugarcreek Church of the Brethren in Tunker. A graduate of Huntington University, she and her “Comfort Keepers was an invaluable asset in my toolbox regarding my mother’s home healthcare requirements. I was able to go to work and concentrate on other aspects of my mother’s healthcare needs. It gave me a “peace of mind” feeling on a daily basis knowing that their qualified staff would handle things at mom’s house and keep me updated. Comfort Keepers is a local outstanding healthcare organization; I would recommend them for any in-home healthcare needs” Robert G.R. Son of client, Fort Wayne
husband, Tim, own an accounting firm. Juillerat’s life has not been without challenges. In 2023, she published “Finding Hope When Storms Don’t Cease,” which tells the story of her sons’ recovery from addiction, her divorce from her first husband and losing her home. Her adult sons co-authored the book with her. “My faith grew stronger through the trials,” she said. “I never could have gotten through it and been the person I am today, had I not had the relationship I had with Jesus.” Juillerat said her faith helped her endure experiences that seemed impossible to overcome. “He promises us in Jeremiah 29:11, ‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’ That was the verse that I held on to.” After her book was published, Juillerat received more opportunities to share “Comfort Keepers is an outstanding healthcare organization in Fort Wayne and surrounding areas. Their professional staff worked with my son to set up a well-balanced healthcare plan that allowed me to stay at my own home and enjoy my later years. Thus, I was able to do everyday activities on my terms. They helped me with personal hygiene needs, light housework, meal preparation, and medication reminders. They treated me like family.” K. Ellen L. Client, Fort Wayne
Eastern time Mondays through the Vision TV Network app on Roku, Fire TV, Apple TV, Samsung TV and YouTube. Episodes are available on demand after the initial broadcast by selecting the “Faith Written Forward” icon. Other guests include Noblesville columnist Janet Hart Leonard, author of “From the Hart,” who offers hope and encouragement through divorce and other life challenges. Lisa
Understanding chronic BOOK AUTHOR — Valerie condition special needs plans
Juillerat is the founder of a Christian television show. She also published a book. Photo provided by Valerie Juillerat.
By MICHELLE WALTERS Executive Vice President Henderson and Walters Agency
her faith. Vision TV Network eventually invited her to create a show. Her goal is to share stories of faith like her own. To further that mission, she founded the International Christian Book Awards, inviting Christian authors to submit their published books. Guests on “Faith Written Forward” are selected from authors who receive an International Christian Book Award. Juillerat devotes countless hours to interviewing authors, educating viewers about how to watch the program and seeking sponsors. “Faith Written Forward” airs as a live stream at 4:30 p.m.
Living with a serious chronic condition takes work. You may juggle appointments, medications and multiple specialists. A Chronic Condition Special Needs Plan, or C-SNP, is one type of Medicare plan designed for people with certain chronic conditions. What Is A C-SNP? A C-SNP is a type of Medicare Advantage Plan (Part C) offered by private insurance companies approved by Medicare. These plans must follow Medicare rules and cover services required by Medicare. Each C-SNP is designed for people with a specific chronic condition or group of related conditions. Benefits, provider
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Saruga, a licensed counselor and author of “The Trauma Tree,” discusses finding wholeness after being attacked in her college dorm and left for dead. “Our stories are important to help others who are going through trials to have hope,” Juillerat said. For more information, visit InternationalChristianBookAwards.com or subscribe to “Faith Written Forward” on YouTube.
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networks and prescription drug formularies are tailored to the people the plan serves. How A C-SNP Works A C-SNP works much like other Medicare Advantage plans. It includes: • Part A (hospital insurance). • Part B (medical insurance). • Part D (prescription drug coverage). Every Special Needs Plan includes Medicare prescription drug coverage and covers all medically necessary services that original Medicare covers. Many plans also offer additional benefits. Because C-SNPs coordinate care, you generally need to use doctors and other providers in the plan’s network. Emergency care and urgently needed care are covered when you are outside the plan’s service area. Dialysis is also covered when you are outside the service area. Some services may require prior authorization before the plan will pay. Rules vary by plan, so review the plan’s details before enrolling. Who Can Enroll? To join a C-SNP, you must: • Have Medicare Part A. • Be enrolled in Medicare Part B. • Live in the plan’s service area. • Have a qualifying chronic condition confirmed by your medical records. The 2026 “Medicare and You” handbook lists conditions such as diabetes, end-stage renal disease, HIV/AIDS, chronic heart failure and dementia. Some C-SNPs cover a single condition, while others cover a group of related conditions. Eligibility depends on your diagnosis and the specific plan’s requirements. You generally must continue to meet the plan’s eligibility requirements to remain enrolled. If you no longer qualify, you may be eligible for a Special Enrollment Period to join another Medicare plan. Where To Get Help C-SNPs can be confusing to navigate, but help is available. You can work with licensed agents to learn about your options and find a plan that meets your needs. Questions? Call Henderson and Walters Agency at (260) 484-7010 to discuss your health insurance needs.
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September 2026 ■ SENIOR LIFE — Allen Edition ■ 13
Knowing when a little help can make a big difference By CHRISTY NAYLOR Vice President of Business Development Paradigm Health At Paradigm Health, our Fort Wayne team shares a clear purpose: to care for patients and families with compassion, dignity and the kind of support we would want for someone we love. That purpose is reflected in the team we have built. We look for people with what I call a “hospice heart.” Hospice requires strong clinical skills, but it also requires heart. We look for people who understand what a privilege it is to be invited into a family’s life during such a personal time - people who listen closely, notice the small things and respond when families need guidance, reassurance or help. For families, the hospice experience should feel supportive and personal. You should know your loved one will be treated with dignity.
RAISE THE BAR — Paradigm Health’s Fort Wayne team recently gathered for a Raising the Bar meeting focused on strengthening care and service for patients and families throughout Allen County. In the front row from left are Jen Levy, Sarah Sieh, Lisa Teel, Sarah Jegerlehner, Morgan Pfeiffer, Dana Roach, Jenna Naylor, Rya Hapner You should know whom to call when something changes. You should receive clear answers and feel prepared for what comes next. That is what raising the bar means to us. Our Fort Wayne team recently gathered for a Raising the Bar meeting focused on
how we can continue improving care and service for patients and families throughout Allen County and surrounding counties. We discussed communication, responsiveness, anticipating needs and staying focused on the person behind every care plan. Hospice is more than man-
and Marissa Tye. In the back row are Bridgitte Grandlienard, Rod Holmes, Sally Kehnast, Emily Stuckey, Sarah Rose, Tiffany Kirchner, Rachael Hughes, Kasey Wisel, Michelle Wallisch, Christy Naylor, Sarah Lemke and Katie Bess. Photo provided by Paradigm Health. aging symptoms. It’s helping someone remain comfortable, helping a caregiver feel less overwhelmed and giving families guidance during uncertain moments. Most of all, it’s helping families spend more time being present with the person
they love. Families place tremendous trust in a hospice team. We believe honoring that trust starts with having the right people beside patients and families and never losing sight of why we are here.
Free technology workshops offered Purdue Extension, in partnership with Allen County Public Library, will offer a series of free, hands-on technology workshops this fall designed specifically for older adults. The Senior Planet workshops provide practical digital skills in small-group settings to help participants gain confidence using technology in everyday life. Senior Planet is a national program of Older Adults Technology Services dedicated to helping older adults use technology to improve their lives, stay connected and remain engaged in their communities. ACPL will host the Purdue Extension-led workshops at several branches, providing northeast Indiana residents with opportunities to attend interactive, in-person classes covering email skills, online safety and digital design. Gmail Tips And Tricks Participants will learn how
to make the most of Gmail by exploring features such as spellcheck, email formatting, inbox searches, signatures and file attachments. Participants should bring their Gmail username and password. • Aboite Branch, 2 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 9. • Main Branch, 1 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 10. • Pontiac Branch, 1 p.m. Monday, Sept. 14. • Hessen Cassel Branch, 4 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 16. Staying Safe Online This workshop will teach strategies for protecting personal information, recognizing suspicious emails, browsing safely and shopping securely online. • Main Branch, 1 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 8. • Pontiac Branch, 1 p.m. Monday, Oct. 12. • Aboite Branch, 2 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 14.
• Dupont Branch, 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 4. Getting Started With Canva Attendees will learn the basics of Canva, a graphic design platform used to create flyers, greeting cards, business cards, posters and more. Participants should bring their email login information to create a free Canva account during the workshop. • Main Branch, 1 p.m. Friday, Nov. 6. • Pontiac Branch, 1 p.m. Monday, Nov. 16. • Hessen Cassel Branch, 4 p.m. Wednesdasy, Nov. 25. Each workshop lasts 90 minutes and is limited to 10 participants to ensure personalized instruction and hands-on learning. To register, call the library branch, Purdue Extension’s Allen County Office at (260) 481-6826 or visit acpl.libnet.info/ events.
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14 ■ SENIOR LIFE — Allen Edition ■ September 2026
Blast to the Past!
‘Disco Duck’ was a DJ’s parody Lee, Dees came up with “Disco Rick Dees and Duck” after hearing a fellow His Cast of Idiots named Ken Pruitt making silly At one time, silly novelty songs were commonplace on the radio. The 1950s brought us “The Purple A Boomer Blast People To The Past Eater” (Sheb By RANDAL Wooley) and C. HILL “The Chipmunk Song” (the Chipmunks). The next decade offered “Alley Oop” (the Hollywood Argyles) and “Hello Muddah, Hello Fadduh” (Alan Sherman). But when shots unexpectedly rang out in Dallas on a bright, sunny Friday in November 1963, nothing on the radio seemed funny anymore. Flash forward to the fall of 1976. Rick Dees (born Rigdon Osmond Dees III in 1950) was a fun-loving Memphis radio disc jockey who had earned a reputation for creating preposterous promotions such as the world’s largest fruitcake (3,000 pounds), the world’s largest jelly doughnut (300 pounds), the world’s largest lollipop (150 pounds), and the world’s largest T-shirt (9 feet by 14 feet). In the mid-1970s, disco reigned as a dominant musical force, and disco’s what DJ Dees hyped as a part-time hustle at a local club, where he spun records and cracked jokes. Sensing that the time was right for a disco parody, and recalling a 1966 dance hit called “The Duck” by singer Jackie
duck noises at a gym where the two worked out. See if you can spot the error in Dees’s lyrics. “Went to a party the other night “All the ladies were treatin’ me right “Movin’ my feet to the disco beat “How in the world could I keep my seat? “All of a sudden I began to change “I was on the dance floor actin’ strange “Flappin’ my arms, I began to cluck “Look at me, I’m the disco duck” Rick found a minor-league Memphis recording home Freetone Records - for “Disco Duck.” Before long, Dees’s yuk-producing novelty began earning radio airplay throughout the South and eventually appearing poised to go nationwide. As a result, Freetone, for $3,500, leased the recording master to the powerful RSO label, an outfit that was keeping the charts afire with one peppy Bee Gees hit after another. RSO mogul Al Coury admitted later, “I didn’t even want to hear it.” He didn’t mind doing a bit of research, though. “I don’t generally use my kids as a barometer, but I’ve got to admit they made me think about the universal appeal this thing might have.” There’s little doubt that everyone involved (including Dees) watched in slack-jawed astonishment as the wacky
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‘DISCO DUCK’ CREATOR — Rick Dees, a radio disc jockey, created Disco Duck after recalling a 1966 dance hit “The Duck” by Jackie Lee. Photo from the Los Angeles Times Photographic Collection at the UCLA Library and Wikipedia. item rocketed to the peak of the Billboard charts and eventually sold a reported 6 million copies. RSO rushed out an LP called “The Original Disco Duck,” which struggled to No. 157 on the album sales lists. The next single pulled from that record was “Dis-Gorilla,” a romp describing the joys of a disco-dancing gorilla. But it never hit, and follow-up 45s tanked. Apparently, the record-buying public had had enough such foolishness. Did you spot the lyrical faux pas? Ducks don’t cluck.
They quack. Chickens cluck. But then, how hip would something called “Disco Chicken” have sounded? Bibliography Books: Bronson, Fred. “The Billboard Book of Number One Hits (Third Edition).” (p. 445) New York: Billboard Publications, Inc., 1992. Shannon, Bob and John Javna. “Behind the Hits: Inside Stories of Classic Pop and Rock and Roll.” (p. 65) New York: Warner Books, Inc. 1986. The Al Coury quote is
Polish-American Heritage Celebration set for Oct. 4 The Polish-American Heritage Celebration Community Potluck will be held from 3-8 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 4, at Memori-
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from here. Internet: Breihan, Tom. “Rick Dees and His Cast of Idiots – ‘Disco Duck (Part 1).” Sept. 17, 2019. stereogum.com. Rick Dees, Disco Duck. (No author or date listed) en.wikipedia.org. “’Disco Duck’ By Rick Dees and His Cast of Idiots.” (No author or date listed) songfacts.com. Lindain, Liz. “Beloved ‘70s Singer with Classic No. 1 Hit Song, Turns 76.” March 14, 2026. parade.com.
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The winner of the I Spy Contest for August is Steven MacDougall from Fort Wayne. The ‘School Backpack’ was located on page 1 in Senior Life Allen; page 12 in Senior Life Northwest; page 5 in Senior Life Elko and page 9 in Senior Life St. Joseph.
food, music, dancing and fellowship. Featured foods will include kielbasa, kapusta and kompot, a traditional Polish fruit drink. The event also will include talks about Polish community, heritage and culture; Polish folk music, songs and dancing; and a polka dance and contest. Guests are encouraged to bring a favorite Polish side dish, recipe, appetizer or dessert to share. The event is free and open to everyone. For more information, call (260) 710-2464 or email jfwln3@tutamail.com. Additional information is available on the event’s Facebook page.
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September 2026 ■ SENIOR LIFE — Allen Edition ■ 15
UPDATES & HAPPENINGS IN THE AREA Continued from page 11
Library in downtown Fort Wayne. The topic will be using genealogy software to organize research and format it into an article about an ancestor to share with family and friends. The sessions are free and open to everyone. No registration is required. —o— Appleseed Quilters Guild October monthly meeting will be from 6:30-9 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 6, at the Mizpah Shrine Center, 1015 Memorial Way, Fort Wayne. The night’s program will feature Robin English, Robin’s Nest Quilts, a vintage quilt trunk show and member show-and-tell. The event is free and open to the public. For more information, contact information@appleseedquiltersguild.com. —o— The New Haven United Women in Faith will hold its annual Fall Rummage Sale from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 7, and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 8, at New Haven United Methodist Church, 630 Lincoln Highway E., New Haven. A $2 bag sale will be held all day Thursday. All proceeds will support the mission work of United Women in Faith, both globally and locally. —o— Woodlands Senior Activity Center For more information, call (260) 248-8944 or visit whitleycountycouncilonaging.org. The center is located at 710 Opportunity Drive, Columbia City. Pixie bingo, 9 a.m. the first, third and fifth Wednesdays of
each month. Line dancing, 9 a.m. Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Euchre, 9-11 a.m. Tuesday and Friday. Bible study with Cheryl, 9 a.m. Tuesday. Alzheimer/Dementia by Aging & In Home Services, 10 a.m on the first Thursday of each month. Chair exercises, 10 a.m. Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Drumming for Joy with Lindsay, 10:15-11:15 a.m. Wednesday. Blood pressure check, 10:45 a.m. the second Wednesday. Health class with Darcy Hoopingarner, 11 a.m. the first Monday.
Birthday lunch/entertainment, second Thursday of each month. Lunch is at 11:30 a.m. and entertainment is at 12:15 p.m. Rotary, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Tuesday. Tenderloin lunch, 11:30 a.m. the third Monday of each month. Entertainment is at 12:15 p.m. Dominoes, noon Tuesday. Rural Respite with Aging and In Home Services, noon to 3:30 p.m. Wednesday. Miller’s craft/games, 12:15 p.m. the last Wednesday of each month. Afternoon euchre, 12:30 p.m. Thursday. Hand and foot card game, 12:30 p.m. Wednesday.
Bible study with Bob, 12:30 p.m. Tuesday. Euchre tournament, 12:30 p.m. the third Thursday. Painting with Evie, 12:30 p.m. on the first Wednesday of each month. Mah Jongg, 1 p.m. every other Monday. The League, 1:30 p.m. every third Tuesday. Cash Bingo, 5 p.m. Thursday starting mid-January. Grieving with Kim, 6:30 p.m. on the second Thursday. —o— McMillen Park Community Center For information, visit fortwayneparks.org or call (260) 427-6000. The center is located at 3901 Abbott St., Fort Wayne.
Pickleball, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday to Friday. Open gym, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Friday. Adult open gym, 6-8 p.m. Monday through Thursday. Adult yoga, 6-7 p.m. Tuesday and noon to 1 p.m. Wednesday. Volleyball, 6-8 p.m. Monday. Badminton, 6-8 p.m. Tuesday. CardioFit, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Monday and Thursday. Essential steps, 5:30-6:30 p.m. Monday and 6-8 p.m. Wednesday. Yoga for seniors, noon to 1 p.m. Wednesday. Yoga for adults, 6-7 p.m. Tuesday. Men’s basketball league, 6-9 p.m. Thursday.
Youtheatre opens season with ‘Stories from the Stacks’ Fort Wayne Youtheatre, the fifth-oldest youth theater in the United States, will open its new season with “Grimm in 60,” a high-energy comedy that puts a humorous spin on some of the most familiar children’s stories. Youtheatre is teaming up again with the Allen County Public Library for another production in the “Stories from the Stacks: Theatre for Young Readers” series. “Grimm in 60,” written by Matt Lyle and guest-directed by Jim Matusik, takes audiences through “Cinderella,”
“Sleeping Beauty,” “Hansel and Gretel,” “The Frog Prince” and other stories in a fast-paced, sketch-comedy style. The production features audience participation, cartoonish mayhem and plenty of unexpected twists. The show pokes fun at the absurdities found in the Brothers Grimm’s tales, including princes falling in love based on shoe size, stepsisters trimming toes, a hedge that swallows entire towns and a DoorDash delivery that solves a centuries-old riddle. “Youtheatre and the Allen
County Public Library are both dedicated to helping spark imaginations in young people,” Artistic Director Christopher J. Murphy said. “Together, our ‘Stories from the Stacks’ series brings preschool- and elementary school-aged kids a taste of creative storytelling onstage that can be followed up with the countless stories housed on the ACPL’s shelves above.” He called the partnership “a perfect collaboration” of which both organizations are proud. Public performances of “Grimm in 60” will be at 1
and 3 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 26 and Sunday, Sept. 27 at the downtown Allen County Public Library, 900 Library Plaza, Fort Wayne. School performances will be at 10 a.m. and noon Sept. 28. Tickets and information are available at FWYT.org or by calling (260) 422-4226. Groups bringing students can call (260) 422-6900 or visit FortWayneYoutheatre. org. Fort Wayne Youtheatre’s 2025-26 season is supported by season sponsor 3Rivers Credit Union.
Assisted Living, nursing And rehAbiLitAtion guide
Adams Heritage
12011 Whittern Road, Monroeville, IN 46773 (260) 623-6440 • www.adamsheritage.org
Grand Marquis
300 East Washington Blvd., Fort Wayne, IN 46802 (260) 422-5511 • jmull@tgmsi.com
Rehabilitation Unit, Skilled Licensed Nursing, Semi-Skilled Nursing Intermediate Care, Therapies: Speech, Occupational, Physical, Respiratory, Outpatient Therapy, Long Term Care, Temporary Care, Private/Semi-Private Rooms, Pet Visitation Allowed, Hospice Care. Medicare and/or Medicaid.
Adams Woodcrest
1300 Mercer Avenue, Decatur, IN 46733 (260) 724-3311 • www.adamswoodcrest.org
Assisted Living; 50+ Community; Pets Allowed; Medicaid Waiver; Private Rooms; Weekly Events; RCAP Program; Conveniently Located; 24/7 Nursing Staff; On-site Therapy; Downtown Lifestyle; Concierge Service; Smoking Area; Restaurant Style Dining
Orchard Pointe Health Campus
702 Sawyer Rd., Kendallville, IN 46755 (260) 347-3333 • www.orchardpointehc.com
Assisted Living, Rehabilitation Unit, Memory Care Unit, Skilled Licensed Nursing, Semi-Skilled Nursing, Intermediate Care, Therapies: Speech, Occupational, Physical, Respiratory, Long Term Care, Temporary Care, Private/Semi-Private Rooms, Pet Visitation Allowed, Hospice Care, Medicare and/or Medicaid.
Golden Years Homestead 3136 Goeglein Road, Fort Wayne, IN 46815 (260) 749-9655 • Greencroft.org/GoldenYears
Comprehensive care with assisted living, rehabilitation, skilled nursing, memory care, respite care, and on-site/outpatient therapy; Medicare/ Medicaid accepted.
Offering Memory Care, Assisted & Independent Living Apartments and Skilled Services. We’ll meet you with the appropriate level of care wherever you are — whether you’re fully independent or looking for additional assistance. Call us.
The Cedars
14409 Sunrise Court, Leo, IN 46765 (260) 627-2191 • www.thecedarsrc.com
Assisted Living, Skilled Licensed Nursing, Semi-Skilled Nursing Or Intermediate Care, Therapies: Speech-Occupational-RespiratoryPhysical, Long Term Care, Temporary Care, Private/Semi-Private Rooms, Pet Visitation Allowed, Hospice Care, Medicare and/or Medicaid
Contact Kim For More Details! 260-760-7022 slallen@the-papers.com • www.seniorlifenewspapers.com
www.seniorlifenewspapers.com
16 ■ SENIOR LIFE — Allen Edition ■ September 2026
7 tips on how to stop constant worrying in your life Editor’s Note: Stan Popovich is the author of “A Layman’s Guide to Managing Fear” which covers 200 plus techniques that can drastically improve your mental health. By STAN POPOVICH Guest Columnist Do you find yourself worrying about everything that is going on around you? It can be very tiring and depressing to constantly worry about your family, your job, your health, and everything else that is happening. Having things out of your control is very scary. As a result, here are seven tips on how to overcome the cycle of worry and fear in
your life. 1. Focus on the facts of your situation; not your thoughts: When people are stressed out, they rely on their fearful and depressing thoughts. Your fearful thoughts are exaggerated and are not based on reality. When you are anxious, focus on the facts of your current situation and not on what you think. 2. You can’t predict the future: Remember that no one can predict the future with one hundred percent certainty. Even if the thing that you are afraid of does happen, there are circumstances and factors that you can’t predict which can be used to your advantage.
STAN POPOVICH For example, you miss the deadline for a project you have been working on. Everything you feared is coming true. Suddenly, your boss tells you that the deadline is
extended and that he forgot to tell you the day before. This unknown factor changes everything. 3. Take a break: Take a deep breath and try to find something to do to get your mind off of your anxieties and stresses. A person could take a walk, listen to some music, read the newspaper, watch TV, play on the computer, or do an activity that will give them a fresh perspective on things. This will distract you from your current worries. 4. Take it one day at a time: Instead of worrying about how you will get through the rest of the week or month, focus on today. Each day can provide us with different opportunities to learn
new things and that includes learning how to deal with your problems. 5. Learn how to manage your thoughts: Challenge your negative thinking with positive statements and realistic thinking. When encountering thoughts that make you fearful, challenge those thoughts by asking yourself questions that will maintain objectivity and common sense. 6. Things change over time: Regardless of your circumstances, your current situation will not stay the same. Everything changes over time. Knowing that your situation will improve will help give you the confidence that things will get better. Continued on page 17
HEALTH SERVICES DIRECTORY A COMPLETE RETIREMENT COMMUNITY
AUDIOLOGY
HOME HEALTH CARE
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CARTER HEARING CLINICS 1335 Getz Road, Fort Wayne, IN 46804 NORTHEAST: 3136 Goeglein Rd., Suite A Phone: (260) 436-6400 or (877) 436-6401 www.carterhearingclinics.com • Creating A Higher Standard of Care • Board certified audiologists by the American Board of Audiology serving Fort Wayne since 1967. • Offices located in Fort Wayne, Auburn and Angola. PROVIDING • Hearing Evaluations, Hearing Aids, Assistive Listening Devices and Auditory Training • FREE TRIAL HEARING AID PROGRAM
BRIGHTSTAR 333 E. Washington Blvd. Fort Wayne, IN 46802 Phone: (260) 918-0933 www.brightstarcare.com/fort-wayne
Enthusiastic, kind personal level client care connection, 24/7 support enables clients to check on loved ones. Rigorous caregiver screen/background check ensures optimal security & family peace of mind.
HOME CARE SERVICES THE CEDARS 14409 Sunrise Court Leo, IN 46765 Phone: (260) 627-2191 www.thecedarsrc.com
Complete Retirement Amenities: Skilled & Intermediate Long Term Nursing Care, Assisted & Residential Apartments, Total Rehab Unit, Villa Of The Cedars With Condominium Homes - “Come To The Country”
CORNERSTONE CAREGIVING 2809 East Dupont Rd. Fort Wayne, IN 46825 Phone: (260) 254-1571 fortwaynein@cornerstonecaregiving.com INTEGRITY HOME CARE, LLC Fort Wayne, IN Phone: (260) 452-9691 ajones@integrityhhc.com
Personalized In-Home Care for You or Your Loved Ones
“Stay Home With Integrity.” Providing assistance to those in need in the comfort of their own home.
AUDIOLOGY
3RIVERS HEARING 7230 Engle Road, Suite 211 Fort Wayne, IN 46804 Phone: (260) 257-7691 3rivershearing@gmail.com www.3rivershearing.com
Family Owned & Operated Hearing Clinic. Free Comprehensive Hearing Test. Multiple Manufacturers. Supplemental Insurance Accepted. Office & Mobile Appointments.
VERACITY SYSTEMS DBA HOOSIER CARE GIVERS 401 E. Colfax Ave. #350 South Bend, IN 46617 (317) 699-7075 info@veracitysystems.org
Family Caregivers Make $19-$21/hr. Compassionate, Attendant, Caregivers, Companionship. Private Paid, Affordable, Medicaid Certified, United Healthcare, Humana, Anthem Homecare Insured.
HOMEFRONT HOME HEALTH 6821 Lima Road Fort Wayne, IN 46818 Phone: (260) 363-0461 www.HomefrontHomeHealth.com
Homefront empowers independent living with compassionate in-home non-medical and medical skilled healthcare, personalized attendant, companion, nursing, and other support services.
Call Kim At 260-760-7022 To Join Our Health Services Directory
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September 2026 ■ SENIOR LIFE — Allen Edition ■ 17
Aging and In-Home Services receives $40,000 grant for Meals on Wheels Aging and In-Home Services of Northeast Indiana has received a $40,000 grant from the Lincoln Financial Foundation to support its Meals on Wheels program. The program serves home-
bound older adults, many of whom face food insecurity and social isolation, by providing nutritious meals and regular wellness checks. “We are deeply grateful to the Lincoln Financial Foun-
7 tips Continued from page 16
7. Get some help: Sometimes, it helps to be able to talk to someone about your stressful situations. Talking to a trusted friend, counselor, or clergyman can give you
dation for their support of this critical service to one of our nation’s most vulnerable populations,” said Beth Evans, president and CEO of Aging and In-Home Services. “This funding will help us reach more seniors who rely on our meal deliveries as they manage the risk of food inse-
curity, multiple chronic conditions and limited income.” The Lincoln Financial Foundation supports organizations with demonstrated success in financial wellness, education and human services. Its human services funding focuses on programs that help individuals over-
come setbacks and prevent crises. The foundation has supported communities for 60 years. Aging and In-Home Services of Northeast Indiana is located at 8101 W. Jefferson Blvd., Fort Wayne. For more information, call (260) 7451200 or visit agingihs.org.
additional advice and insights on how to deal with the fear of the unknown. Remember that there is nothing wrong in asking for assistance. For more information,visit managingfear.com.
HEALTH SERVICES DIRECTORY HOME PET CARE
HUMANE FORT WAYNE IN-HOME SERVICES 901 Leesburg Road Fort Wayne, IN 46808 Phone: (260) 744-0454 www.humanefw.org/get-help/pet-promises/
This FREE program helps seniors care for their pets. Services include grooming, walking, waste clean-up, wellness checks, transportation and more.
IN-HOME CARE
COMFORT KEEPERS 3182 Mallard Cove Lane Fort Wayne, IN 46804 Phone: (260) 484-5858 MollyTritch@comfortkeepers.com Comfort Keepers provides award winning in-home care for seniors and other adults in need of assistance with daily activities.
HOSPICE
PET AFTERCARE
STILLWATER HOSPICE 5910 Homestead Road Fort Wayne, IN 46804 (260) 435-3222 stillwater-hospice.org
NATURE’S WAY PET AFTERCARE 6428-C St. Joe Center Road Fort Wayne, IN 46835 Phone: (260) 255-6972 www.natureswaypetaftercare.com
Helping families face serious illness and loss with comfort, compassion and guidance through hospice, palliative and adult grief support.
Supporting families every step. Services include: pet euthanasia, cremation, memorial items and grief support. Contact us today to start pre-planning.
PHYSICAL THERAPY
HOOSIER PHYSICAL THERAPY Michael F. Barile, D.C., P.T. 3030 Lake Avenue Fort Wayne, IN 46805 Phone: (260) 420-4400 www.hoosierpt.com
Medicare Assignment Accepted • “Personalized Care”
SENIOR WELLNESS
STROLL WALKING CLUB 4315 Love Grass Lane Fort Wayne, IN 46845 Phone: (260) 452-6091 www.strollwalkingclub.com • Guided Group Walks • Door to Door Transportation • Built for Seniors • Trusted Local Guides
IN-HOME CARE
ABSOLUTE ANGELS IN-HOME CARE PO Box 214 Leo, IN 46765 Phone: (260) 715-7777 www.AbsoluteAngels.org Don@AbsoluteAngels.org Absolute Angels delivers compassionate, reliable care — bringing peace of mind, dignity and heartfelt support to families when it matters most.
Call Kim At 260-760-7022 To Join Our Health Services Directory
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18 ■ SENIOR LIFE — Allen Edition ■ September 2026
Travel
Blue Ridge Mountains: Moonshine capital of the world By FYLLIS HOCKMAN Guest Writer The Blue Ridge Mountains, and the infamous parkway that runs through them, are famous for many things: scenic drives, nature tours, hiking trails, fall foliage, farmers markets, historical sites and so much more. And yet none of that covers the most interesting attribute of this Roanoke region in Virginia’s Blue Ridge, the city known as the gateway to the Blue Ridge Mountains, and its Franklin County neighbor. It’s the “Moonshine Capital of the World.” Before, during and after Prohibition, bootlegging reigned supreme. And it’s no slouch in today’s world either. First, a little background. During the late 1800s, distilleries in the area were abundant. The mountain geography provided secluded protection for hidden stills. Corn was plentiful and easily turned into whiskey - and making moonshine was profitable. And then Prohibition hit! Consensus thinking at the time was that it would inhibit drinking and the making of it. But, of course, that was nonsense. Binge drinking probably got its start during Prohibition. The demand for illegal alcohol skyrocketed - and the Franklin County bootleggers were more than happy to oblige, developing sophisticated transportation routes to move liquor up and down the East Coast. It famously claimed to produce more illicit liquor than anywhere else in the U.S. during Prohibition, entitling the area to the moniker “Moonshine Capital of
the World,” a label it remains proud of to this day. My recent visit to the area reinforced that impression. After all, there’s a museum devoted to the very idea albeit with a slightly different orientation. The Moonshine Explosion Museum is devoted to just that - a June 11, 1930, literal explosion of two overheating Model T Fords that drove into a garage for repair. Why did they explode? Trunks full of illegal liquor also overheated. Charred remains of the cars are still ensconced in the basement of the original building, which was built in 1912, but they weren’t discovered until 2017 during basement renovations - although the story proliferated well before and after. But despite the museum’s singular name, it also paints a much more complete picture of the still-celebrated history of moonshine, which kept many an Appalachian family able to survive. The museum highlights the connection between “white lightning” (AKA firewater, hooch) and the community, fostering a sense of resilience and ingenuity - and, oh yes, a massive evasion of the law. Franklin County became known for its high-quality moonshine and the persistence of its moonshiners in resisting authorities. And apparently, ramifications of that questionable ability exist today. Because many moonshiners modified cars to outrun law enforcement, the culture influenced early stock-car racing, and that tradition helped contribute to the origins of NASCAR. Not
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HOW IT WAS DONE — Shown is a moonshine still. Photo by Cateyeperspective with Dreamstime.com entirely sure how I feel about that particular legacy. ... But back to bootlegging - and the notorious Great Moonshine Conspiracy Trial of 1935, the second-longest trial in Virginia history. It involved a high-profile legal case involving 23 defendants accused of multiple large-scale moonshine operations. Many were convicted, but the illegal operations continued to thrive. A visit to Twin Creeks Distillery underscores the appeal of the original moonshine. For starters, Twin Creeks owner and master distiller Chris Prillman is the grandson of Peg Hatcher, one of the kingpins convicted in the Great Moonshine Conspiracy of 1935. That’s quite a family legacy! As much as it sounds like an oxymoron, they serve legal moonshine - slightly less high-octane than the mountain variety and government-regulated. It’s the only establishment in the area to do so. And Prillman continues to pay tribute to his grandfather by crafting spirits just as he did. So when I say master distiller, I mean Prillman is still making his “bathtub gin” - the colloquial term for stills that are large enough to be utilitarian and small enough to easily hide - at home. Whether he’s still using a bathtub, I don’t know. Back at the distillery, I sampled - OK, guzzled - a coffee moonshine made by a local
GETTING A TASTE — Fyllis imbibing moonshine at Twin Creeks Distillery. Photo by Victor Block.
THE MENU — Shown is the menu at Twin Creeks Distillery. Photo by Victor Block. coffee shop owner who still refuses to divulge his recipe that far and away surpasses any espresso martini I’ve ever had. Flights of “cocktails” adorn the menu. Apparently, fancy cocktails were the norm during Prohibition, as bartenders had to get creative in order to mask the taste of poor-quality liquor. Of course, Franklin County probably didn’t have any poor-quality hooch. ... More family legacy is carried on by Twin Creeks’ manager, Kathy, whose father owns three of the original moonshine cars that led to NASCAR, with enhanced power and extra-large trunks
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designed to transport the profitable product. According to Steven Ray Tickle, another proud moonshining legacy and star of the surprisingly popular TV show “Moonshiners,” “People mistakenly think moonshiners just want to break the law, but that’s not true. They just want to carry on a tradition that’s part of the American heritage. They helped found and fund the Declaration of Independence .... If you really love your country, you’re gonna have to love moonshine.” So if you’re thinking that pretty much brings the story of moonshine to the current day, keep reading. On yet another modern-day front, Franklin County’s moonshine era may seem like a relic of Prohibition, but the legal arguments surrounding home distilling are still alive. More than a century after moonshiners in Virginia’s Blue Ridge battled federal liquor laws, the question of who can legally make whiskey - and under what authority the government can stop them - remains unsettled. In an unexpected twist, a debate that once played out on the ridges and hollows of Virginia’s moonshine country - very much still “The Moonshine Capital of the World” - may soon be argued before the U.S. Supreme Court. I’ll drink to that! For more information, visit Visit Roanoke, the Moonshine Explosion Museum and Twin Creeks Distillery.
www.seniorlifenewspapers.com
September 2026 ■ SENIOR LIFE — Allen Edition ■ 19
Travel
70s Flashback -
Were you in the mood for a ring? Every decade has its fads intense and often silly crazes that set popular culture ablaze, only to quickly flame By RANDAL out and C. HILL disappear overnight. The 1950s saw the coming and going of 3-D movies, Davy Crockett caps and Hula Hoops. Miniskirts, lava lamps and tie-dyed clothing helped define the next decade. The 1970s brought us Pet Rocks, water beds and mood rings. Ah, yes. Mood rings. How cool were those! Pieces of jewelry that claimed to change color to reflect a wearer’s emotional state. If you were happy, your band turned blue. Brown meant that you were a grouch. Black? You lived under a cloud of gloom. (Cheer up, please!) The fact that mood rings responded to body temperature rather than emotions didn’t seem to concern anyone. What do you remember about these once-hot hoops? They hit their popularity peak in
The spiked watermelon debacle
By JIM CARPENTER Guest Writer
An outdoor rock concert in Indy. Seemed ideal for us college chums. We packed supplies and away we went. Not knowing the challenge to come. For this event we went all out. And took a watermelon that was spiked. I had embalmed it with a fifth of booze. What could possibly not go right? Parking was bad, we had to hike, and carried that melon along. With visions of eating that boozy fruit. While listening to rock and roll songs. Approaching the gate we were chagrined. That melon was not allowed in! So again it was I hiked quite far. And returned that watermelon to the car. Looking back I have to smile. As I recall that long ago time The juice was awful but it was drank. And we considered it mighty fine.
the summer and fall of 1975, and, in addition to the rings themselves, additional mood-revealing items offered included mood nail polish, mood shoes, and mood underwear. (One assumes that the last-mentioned involved the smallest audience.) While the rage was fresh and exciting during the middle of the decade, the technology itself was old hat. Inside the “quartz stones” was heat-sensitive liquid crystal, chemically synthesized from grease extracted from sheep’s wool. Sheep’s wool had also been utilized in an earlier craze: 3-D glasses. Okay, so what was unique about these baubles? One answer is that they were associated with the psycho-spiritual gibberish of the time. For this, we can praise or blame (depending on your point of view) a business-driven Wall Street dropout named Joshua Reynolds. During a search to overcome debilitating anxieties, Reynolds had discovered biofeedback - a modulating of one’s brainwave emissions. This led him to establish Q-Tran (“Tran” for tranquility), a meditation center in the Big Apple. Here stressed-out patrons were
promised relief if they were hooked up to a complicated biofeedback machine. But a pair of problems clouded the picture: the machine was jaw-droppingly expensive, and it broke down with seeming regularity. Reynolds countered both issues with a simple solution: create a “portable feedback aid” in the form of a band that featured about a dime’s worth of liquid crystal. He hired a press agent, convinced the cosmetic company Faberge to back him, and soon found himself rocketing to pop-culture popularity. For a while, mood rings reigned as the ultimate “in” item. On the first day they went on sale at Manhattan’s posh Bonwit Teller department store, 1,000 rings were snapped up at $45 each (around $275 in today’s money). By the end of the year, 15 million had been sold. The knickknacks ranged from $5 knockoffs to 14-karat-gold specialties with a $250 price tag. Superstar celebrities (Paul Newman, Barbra Streisand, Muhammad Ali) vouched for them. Ali even wrote a poem about his. Eventually, mood rings ended up on the slag heap of discarded fads once deemed
By CECIL SCAGLIONE Mature Life Features
in 10 individuals suffer their blinding pain and the accompanying complaints, such as sensitivity to light, noise and smells, nausea and upset stomach among others. Sinus headaches usually are the result of infected sinuses and hover around the front of your face - forehead, nose and cheeks. Cluster headaches hit about 1 percent of the population. They’re usually short but extremely painful and tend to occur in clusters - several times a day or at the same of time of day for several days. Tension is the most common cause of the most common headaches. These can be triggered by anxiety, allergies, eye strain and loss of sleep. You can also suffer such a headache after too much carousing the night before. These types of headaches usually are a steady ache
THE MOOD RING — An original mood ring was introduced as the Mood Stone in 1975. Photo from Wikipedia. essential to coolness. Today they are only remembered with a smile, and possibly - or probably - a bit of embarrassment. Bibliography Book: Stern, Jane and Michael. “The Encyclopedia of Bad Taste.” (p. 218) New York: HarperCollins Publishers, 1990. Internet: “How Mood Rings Work.” (No author or date listed) bestmo-
odrings.com. Jacobs, Matt. “The History of the Mystery of the Mood Ring.” May 20, 2021. blinkee.com. Mood Rings. (No author or date listed) en.wikipedia.org. “Mood Rings: From ‘70s Fad and ‘90s Nostalgia to LCDs and NFTS.” (No author listed) Jan. 5, 2024. ripleys.com. Wakeman, Gregory. “How Mood Rings Became a 1970s Sensation.” April 23, 2025. history.com.
rather than a throbbing that’s a hallmark of many migraines. And, fortunately, they are the easiest to treat because they respond favorably to most overthe-counter pain relievers. Erasing these attacks calls for learning how to relax mentally as well as physically. Getting enough sleep is a good start. So is some form of regular exercise. Swimming,
biking, walking and gardening are simple means to keep you moving enough to assure you of a good night’s sleep. If you’re experiencing headaches more than once a week for any reason, make an appointment with your primary-care physician to discuss their source and suggested solutions.
Headaches are a real pain We’re surrounded by headaches. Bustling traffic, noisy neighbors, relentless relatives, busybody bosses, and you’ll think of a few more. Those aren’t really headaches, although they may be causes. Most of us will suffer at least one headache this year. While everyone has heard of migraines, only about one
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20 ■ SENIOR LIFE — Allen Edition ■ September 2026
Finance
5 Social Security resources that can protect elders from scams By DANIEL SUMMER, MA Public Affairs Specialist Social Security Administration World Elder Abuse Awareness Day was celebrated June 15. On this day, communities, seniors, caregivers, governments, organizations and the private sector united to prevent the mistreatment of and violence against older people. Social Security scams are widespread across the United States. Scammers use sophisticated tactics to deceive you into providing sensitive information or money. They target everyone - especially the elderly - and their tactics continue to evolve. Here are five easy-to-use resources to prevent Social Security fraud:
1. Create your personal my Social Security account at ssa.gov/myaccount to stay one step ahead of scammers. 2. Read our blog post to learn how to guard your Social Security card – and protect your personal information at ssa.gov/blog/en/ posts/2025-06-05.html. 3. Check out our Protect Yourself from Scams page to learn how we fight scammers at ssa.gov/scam. 4. Read our Scam Alert fact sheet to learn what tactics scammers use and how to protect yourself at ssa.gov/ fraud/assets/materials/EN05-10597.pdf. 5. Learn about other types of fraud on our Office of the Inspector General’s Scam Awareness page at oig.ssa.
gov/scam-awareness/scamalert. You’ll also see how to report these scams to our OIG and other government agencies. Share this information with your friends and family to help spread awareness about Social Security imposter scams.
PROTECT YOURSELF FROM SCAMMERS — The Social Security Administration has five easy-to-use resources to prevent Social Security fraud. Find out more at ssa.gov. Photo provided by the Social Security Administration.
Ways to reduce gaps in health care By KURT NESS Ness Bros. Managing health care can become overwhelming, especially for older adults and family caregivers juggling appointments, medications, referrals and multiple providers. Nearly nine in 10 adults struggle to understand and use health information effectively, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. A few proactive steps can help prevent important details from falling through the cracks. 1. Improve communication
between providers. Bring an updated medication and provider list to appointments. Before leaving, confirm the next steps, who is responsible for referrals or follow-up and when you should expect to hear back. Request a visit summary and make sure information is shared with your care team. 2. Follow up on tests and symptoms. Don’t assume “no news is good news.” Track pending lab work, imaging and referrals, and follow up when results are delayed. Review test results
and visit notes, and consider a second opinion when symptoms persist or remain unexplained. 3. Prepare for transitions in care. Moving from a hospital to home, rehabilitation or another facility can increase the risk of medication errors, missed follow-ups and readmission. Before discharge, understand medication changes, warning signs, needed support services and upcoming appointments.
4. Keep health information organized. Patient portals can be helpful, but paper records or a digital folder work, too. Keep important medication lists, test results and medical records accessible. A trusted caregiver also may be given proxy access when appropriate. 5. Prevent medication confusion. Know what each medication is for, how long it should be
taken and whether it interacts with other prescriptions, supplements or over-the-counter medications. Pharmacists also can provide medication reviews. Patient advocates, care coordinators and other resources may be available to help. Small steps - asking questions, tracking results and keeping organized records - can make navigating health care safer and more manageable.
Use your home’s equity to enjoy retirement By DENNIS LOXTON, CFP SecurityNational Mortgage Company In today’s world, many seniors face increasing expenses from property taxes, homeowners insurance and HOA dues. Fortunately, the equity in your home that has increased over the past few years may help. A reverse mortgage allows
you to access your home’s equity without monthly mortgage payments, providing flexibility and financial security during retirement. Whether you want to age in place, manage your finances or achieve your retirement goals, a reverse mortgage may be an option worth considering. Reverse mortgages have changed significantly over the past 10 years and are now
considered by many financial advisers as a potential tool for helping seniors create a more secure retirement. Here are some reasons homeowners may consider a reverse mortgage: • Free up cash flow: Eliminate payments on a traditional mortgage and free up money for other retirement expenses. • Pay property taxes, insurance and HOA dues: Accessing home equity may help cover rising property taxes, homeowners insurance and association dues. • Age in place: Use available funds to remodel or renovate your home so you can remain in the home you love. • Help your children become homeowners: Make a gift to help a family member with the down payment needed to purchase a home. • Address gray divorce: A reverse mortgage may provide another option for dividing home equity and other assets during a divorce. • Build a safety net: Maintain a growing line of credit for emergencies or keep cash available to help manage investment-market fluctuations. A reverse mortgage is not right for everyone, and homeowners should carefully consider the costs, requirements and potential effects on their financial plans before making a decision. Contact me today to learn more about how unlocking your home’s equity may help you enjoy retirement.