Health and Wellness Quarterly - Summer 2021

Special Supplement to The Glendale Star and Peoria Times

HEALTH

WELLNESS Your Local Guide to Better Living

Summer 2021

INSIDE

This Issue

MYTHS OF PREGNANCY ......... 4 Desert West OB/GYN answers questions from parents-to-be

CHRONIC FOOT PAIN ............ 8 Dr. Kerry Zang hates to hear that foot pain slowing you down

NEVER THE WRONG PLACE ................ 14 Airman & Family Readiness Center is always available

Glencroft erases stigma of modern living centers

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BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI

hen Glencroft Center for Modern Living underwent physical and theoretical facelifts three years ago, CEO John Wenzlau didn’t realize the impact it would have on the senior housing market.

“We did a reinvention,” said Wenzlau, who has worked there for eight years. “We needed to change of perspective of people who needed the services we provide.”

Even in the late 2010s, the stigma of places like Glencroft Center for Modern Living was negative. Wenzlau and his staff turned it around.

The “modest buy-in community that was struggling” turned into a continuum of care retirement community (CCRC) with amenities needed for an aging community.

The well-rounded Glencroft Center for Modern Living was founded in the early 1960s by Sarah Ruth, a local pastor’s wife. The Glendale facility offers independent and assisted living, memory and long-term care, along with home health services.

Residents remain in the same 40-acre community as their health care needs evolve. Glencroft Center for Modern Aging is Arizona’s CCRC. “They’re reluctant to move into a senior place for a variety of reasons,” he said. “They think it’s a last stop in their journey. That is not what we are about.

I put together a program with a fellow I hired out of the hospitality industry. We

You Want

John Wenzlau, the CEO of Glencroft Center for Modern Living, has 40 years’ experience in the U.S. senior living and housing industry, knowledge he used to change the people’s perspectives about senior care homes. (Photo by Pablo Robles)

wanted to create a place to come where people can thrive in the end years of their lives.”

Glencroft provides standard services like meals, housekeeping and transportation; activities are what makes the center.

“Everyone has a modified workout area,” he said. “But we needed to take it a step further and take a holistic approach.”

In 2019, Wenzlau and Vice President of Operations Steve Heller created the faith-based ZoeLife, which helps Glen-

[Exceptional Physical Therapy.]

We Are Your Healthcare Team.

croft residents maintain a health, active lifestyle and achieve and preserve a higher quality of life. Whole-person wellness helps people reshape themselves on multiple levels. Each area is extremely important and plays a key role in our overall well-being.

“We use six pillars — spiritual wellness, emotional wellness, physical wellness, social wellness, intellectual wellness and

Glencroft...continued on page 10 Midwestern University Ther apy Institute Your Family’s Home for Healthcare

www.mwuclinics.com

2

Health & Wellness

Benevilla celebrates 40 years of care and compassion

BY BENEVILLA

T

he not-for-profit senior and family services agency Benevilla is celebrating its 40th anniversary.

The agency was founded in 1981 by Sun Cities-area citizens and the Area Ministerial Association, who felt local services were not readily available to residents. Their mission was to promote health and independence by providing supportive services to their neighbors.

From humble beginnings as Benevilla Life Enrichment Program members celebrate a group of 30 volunteers help- Benevilla’s 40-year anniversary of care and compassion. (Photo courtesy of Benevilla) ing with errands and home care services and a handful of employ- Northwest Valley. It is supported by ees, IFS grew into Benevilla, a vibrant more than 200 volunteers and 100-plus network of Life Enrichment Day Pro- employees seeking to help keep senior grams, comprehensive care-manage- citizens and families independent i ment programs, free support and eduBenevilla...continued on page 4 cational services available across the

Celebrating 40 years of care and compassion Life Enrichment Day Programs | Free Home Services Free Caregiver Support Groups | Family Resource Center C.A.R.E.S. Resources & Information | Life Coaching Volunteer Opportunities & more.

Benevilla | 623-584-4999 | www.Benevilla.org | Enriching Lives 2021 Q2 40 Years _ Health and Wellness.indd 1

3/18/2021 2:34:22 PM

Summer 2021

The vestibular system and balance

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BY CELESTE DELAP, DPT, PT, CGS

any people fall because they lose their balance, and this can become of greater concern as people age.

The ability to maintain balance results from a complex interaction of four major systems and depends on information received by the brain from the eyes, muscles and joints, as well as the vestibular system.

Disruption of just one of these factors can lead to balance problems and a higher risk of falling, but let’s focus on problems with the vestibular system in your inner ears that can be a common cause of falling. Patients with vestibular The Midwestern University Therapy Institute issues typically report symptoms houses the first CAREN virtual rehabilitation sysof dizziness that can include light- tem in Arizona. One of only 50 worldwide, the headedness, vertigo (feeling as if CAREN (Computer Assisted Rehabilitation Enviyou are falling when you are not ronment) is an immersive virtual reality system moving), feeling faint, actually for advanced clinical evaluation, analysis and rehabilitation for a variety of neurophysical condifainting or disequilibrium/loss of tions that may affect vision, balance and physical balance. abilities, including stroke, brain injury and ParkinPhysical therapists look at ves- son’s disease. (Photo courtesy of Midwestern University) tibular and nonvestibular causes of imbalance or dizziness and do tests and as clinical assstant professor for the measures to determine which system is Midwestern University Physical Therimpaired and how to help correct it. apy Program and supervises advanced A Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy physical therapy students in their clini(VRT) specialist provides specific ex- cal rotations at the Midwestern Univerercises that retrain the brain to recog- sity Therapy Institute in Glendale. nize and process signals from the vesDelap is a board-certified geriatric tibular system that can prevent falling. clinical specialist through the American Another treatment that may be indicat- Board of Physical Therapy Specialties ed for benign paroxysmal positional and has extensive experience working vertigo — an involuntary movement of with older adults who have specific gait, eyes with the illusion of movement or movement or balance disorders, includsensation of spinning — is the canalith ing vestibular disorders and Parkinson’s repositioning maneuver, also referred disease. She is also certified in the Lee to as the Epley maneuver. This pro- Silverman Voice Training (LSVT) BIG cedure helps put small crystals within program and Parkinson Wellness Recovthe inner ear back into place, usually in ery (PWR) PWR!Moves program.

For more information about the Midone to three visits.

Dizziness is abnormal and is not a western University Clinics, call 623typical part of aging, so it is important 537-6000 or visit mwuclinics.com/az. to see a health care professional with vestibular training to help determine The information contained in this article is not inthe cause of your symptoms and appro- tended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, care or treatment. Always consult a priate treatment. qualified health care provider for questions regarding Celeste Delap, DPT, PT, GCS, serves any possible medical condition.

Summer 2021

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Health & Wellness

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The Midwestern University Physical Therapy team offers affordable, comprehensive, individualized therapy treatments for chronic pain, injury, or surgery. Our faculty doctors specialize in the treatment of orthopedic, spine, vestibular, vertigo, balance, and neurologic conditions, including Parkinson’s disease and stroke. Our state-ofthe-art clinic features the first CAREN virtual rehabilitation system in Arizona.

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Myths of pregnancy 4

Health & Wellness

BY DESERT WEST OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY

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are is the prenatal visit that doesn’t address the questions of worried parents-to-be. Myths handed down from generation to generation — or from inaccurate information found on the internet— can give even the most savvy individuals concern as to what they should or shouldn’t do or expect during the ever-important nine months.

“I tell my patients that I would much rather they share with me something they’ve heard or read than to be too embarrassed,” said Dr. Hannah Tilden at Desert West Obstetrics & Gynecology Arrowhead. “There’s a lot of information to absorb, and open communication with your provider is absolutely

Benevilla...continued from page 2 their own homes.

Since 1981, Benevilla has evolved as

essential.”

Whether it’s the myth that eating peanuts can make your baby allergic to them (they can’t), morning sickness only happens in the morning (it doesn’t) or that moms-to-be should be eating for two (an extra 200 to 350 additional healthy calories per day is plenty), it’s important to separate fact from fiction.

“There is so much information for us to share,” Tilden said. “We make use of every minute of our prenatal visits, which go from monthly to twice monthly and then weekly until delivery.”

One of the biggest myths of carrying a child is the presence of that happy glow.

“Pregnancy is a journey we take

a nonprofit agency enriching the lives of older adults, adults with disabilities, children, and the families who care for them. Benevilla provides many sup-

Desert West OB/GYN Arrowhead and Thunderbird

are accepting new patients!

O

ur board certified providers offer a full menu of services including well-woman examinations, normal and high-risk pregnancies, family planning, menopause and hormone replacement, infertility and incontinence. We now deliver at both Banner Thunderbird Medical Center and HonorHealth Sonoran Crossing Medical Center.

7787 W Deer Valley Rd #296 • Peoria, Arizona 85382 6678 W Thunderbird Rd • Glendale, Arizona 85306

Schedule: 602-978-1500 Learn more at DesertWestOBGYN.com

Summer 2021

Dr. Hannah Tilden

Dr. Rebecca Ludwig

with our patients,” said Dr. Rebecca Ludwig at the Desert West Anthem office. “Even for those for whom pregnancy is a lifelong dream, there are emotional highs and lows thanks to hormones, coping with tiredness, and all the physical changes. It can be pretty overwhelming. I remind my

patients that if they’re not feeling the glow, they’re not alone. And if their mood, or worries, are getting in the way of daily life, talk to us. That’s what we’re here for.”

Desert West OB/GYN has five locations in the West and far North Valley.

Learn more at desertwestobgyn.com.

port services, including: • Three Life Enrichment Day Programs in Surprise, Sun City and Peoria, providing care for older adults with Alzheimer’s and dementia, survivors of stroke, Parkinson’s disease and fall-related injuries.

• Two Life Enrichment Day Programs for adults with disabilities in Sun City and Peoria.

• A safe, family-friendly learning environment at Wirtzie’s Preschool and Child Care in Surprise, including its unique Intergenerational Program.

• Free Home Services for seniors and home-bound adults supported by generous volunteers who run errands and provide grocery shopping, assisted transportation services to medical appointments, basic handyman services,

business assistance and friendly visitor and phone check-ins.

• Caregiver support through the Benevilla C.A.R.E.S. (community assistance, resources, education and support) Resource Specialists, free caregiver support groups and life coaching.

• Numerous free educational workshops and events held throughout the year.

• The Family Resource Center is dedicated to helping parents prepare their children, ages newborn to 5 years old, to start school healthy and ready to succeed.

• A variety of volunteer opportunities providing support and care for your neighbors.

Summer 2021

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Health & Wellness

Avanti Senior Living’s amenities are unmatched

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BY AVANTI SENIOR LIVING AT PEORIA

ocated off Lake Pleasant Parkway, Avanti Senior Living at Peoria is near the Abrazo Peoria Emergency Center, the Lake Pleasant Town Center and numerous restaurants.

Residents can also explore popular sites such as the picturesque Sahuaro Ranch Park and the historical Pioneer Arizona Living History Museum.

This beautiful community is unlike any other assisted living communities.

Seniors are empowered to remain engaged, active and full of life, thanks to one-of-a-kind amenities, professionally planned, created and decorated by industry-leading interior designers and architects.

The design is unparalleled, and it works together with the amenities to enrich the lives residents by providing a relaxed and welcoming community.

Avanti Senior Living’s holistic approach to caring for its residents is innovative. Top-notch design and amenities that are unparalleled in the industry

Exterior view of Avanti Senior Living at Peoria’s assisted living and memory care community, located in scenic North Peoria, off Lake Pleasant Parkway, just north of Happy Valley Road. (Photo courtesy of Avanti)

work together to enrich residents’ lives by providing a relaxed and welcoming community. Each program is developed to help residents live independently while offering freedom of choice.

Salize, Avanti’s memory support program, is designed to fit the individ-

WE’VE THOUGHT OF EVERYTHING THAT MATTERS. ESPECIALLY WHAT MATTERS TO YOU.

ual needs of each resident. Through the Salize program, residents live as independently as possible while thriving in an environment designed specifically for those with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.

Salize is a revolutionary memory

support program that has been shown to reduce common symptoms of dementia, such as agitation, anxiety and aggression without the need for strong pharmaceutical prescriptions.

Info: 602-366-4600 or peoria. avanti-sl.com

At Avanti Senior Living, our residents experience a lifestyle that matters most to them!

• Personalized Care Plans • Chef Prepared, Restaurant – Style Dining • Purposefully Engagements & Outings • Daily Happy Hour • Fitness Classes with Certified Trainer • Massage and Salon Services • A Beautiful Place to Call Home

By Avanti Memory Care

Assisted Living and Memory Care

Specializing in assisted living and memory care

To learn more about Avanti Senior Living and Memory Services, visit our website www.avanti-sl.com or call 602-366-4600 to schedule a tour.

Avanti Senior Living at Peoria | 26850 N. Lake Pleasant Parkway | Peoria, AZ 85383 | License # AL11394C | www.peoria.avanti-sl.com

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Health & Wellness

Summer 2021

Staying fit can offset minor aches and pains

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BY GLENDALE COMMUNITY COLLEGE

ince the start of the pandemic in March 2020, many people have had increased pain in their back, shoulder, neck, wrist and hips because they’ve become inactive and are spending so much time in front of the computer.

These pains can be credit to a more sedentary lifestyle and extended time working at computers without a break. When working at the computer, we’re often not mindful of posture and slouching. Here are some helpful things to prevent these nagging pains from becoming major debilitating issues.

• Consider joining a fitness center. For example, the Glendale Community College Fitness Centers are open to the public. The staff can assist you with an exercise regimen to meet your needs.

They also offer a wide variety of group fitness classes.

• Check your work environment. When sitting at a computer, make sure and

look straight ahead at the screen. Do not flex or extend the neck muscles. Avoid slouching. Lift your sternum, make sure your ears are over your shoulders and that your shoulder blades are back, down and relaxed.

• Adjust your chair height until your hips are at 90 degrees or slightly higher and your knees and ankles are at 90 degrees with your feet flat on the floor.

Make sure your elbows are at 90 degrees so your hands comfortably find the keyboard and mouse, forearms level with the table. It is almost impossible to meet these guidelines when working on a laptop without an extra keyboard shelf.

• Flexibility exercises can be done throughout the day. Bring your chin to your chest, then gently tilt to the right and left. Bring your ear to your shoulder on each side. Roll your shoulders back and down. Interlace your fingers and reach your arms in front of your while facing your palms forward, then take the stretch overhead.

The fitness center at Glendale Community College. (Photo courtesy of GCC)

• Stand regularly. Every 20 minutes is ideal. Even better, move to a standing position at your computer if you can maintain good posture. Alternating sitting and standing throughout the day is ideal.

• Using dumbbells, do some resistance training exercises two to three times per week. Two sets of 10 reps is a great place to start. Canned fruit or vegetables can be used in place

of dumbbells. Raise your weights to shoulder height at the sides, to the front and to the rear. Do some pushups, resting on your knees or toes.

Try squats, by sitting back and almost touching your chair while reaching your arms in front for balance. Add dumbbells as you get stronger. For advice from a certified fitness trainer, reach out to the GCC Fitness Center at 623-845-3800.

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Summer 2021

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Savor the flavor of fresh, healthy dining

BY LA SIENA

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t La Siena, an engaging senior living community in Phoenix, residents can savor the flavors of fresh, delicious food choices. Under the leadership of executive chef Celeste Sheeley, La Siena provides an exceptional dining experience featuring a wide selection of menu options from chef-inspired entrees to the fresh catch of the day.

For those more health conscious, Sheeley offers FreshZest, the community’s flavorful plant-based, whole-foods menu options.

“You don’t have to be a vegetarian or vegan to reap the health benefits of a plant-based diet,” Sheeley said.

A plant-based diet such as FreshZest can offer a variety of benefits, such as: • Protecting your brain health. A plant-based diet La Siena offers a full calendar of social, cultural and eduavoids saturated fat and cational opportunities. (Photo courtesy of La Siena) trans fat, which can increase the risk for Alzheimer’s disease Type 2 diabetes. Eating less meat and other cognitive conditions. over time can decrease your risk of • Reducing inflammation in your body. diabetes.

High in fiber and antioxidants, plantIn addition to delicious dining, La based diets are naturally anti-inflam- Siena features a full calendar of social, matory and can help manage aches, cultural and educational opportuniboost the immune system, and more. ties. Residents are further comforted • Lowering blood cholesterol levels. to know that the community’s licensed Studies consistently show that when and accredited supportive services are people go plant based, their blood cho- available, should the need arise. lesterol levels can drop by up to 35%.

For more information, call 602-635• Reducing your chances of getting 6968 or visit LaSienaSeniorLiving.com.

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That’s the Power of WE. Imagine life with a complete support system.

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Chronic foot pain can be relieved 8

D

BY GREER BANKS

r. Kerry Zang hates to hear that foot pain is keeping someone from their everyday life.

The podiatric medical director of CiC Foot & Ankle said feet wouldn’t necessarily hurt if someone stands all day or is getting older. Others live with chronic foot pain because they didn’t get relief from prior treatment and don’t know where to turn.

“The thing that excites me most about being a doctor is finding new ways to help my patients,” Zang said.

“Regenerative medicine is one of the most effective breakthroughs I’ve seen in a long time. One of the biggest benefits is that it can treat so many different conditions. It doesn’t matter if you are

Health & Wellness

suffering from arthritis, an old injury, Achilles tendonitis, heel pain or plantar fasciitis, pain after surgery, the list goes on and on. Regenerative medicine may be able to help.”

Regenerative injection therapy (RIT) uses growth factors to help repair and restore tissue, ligaments and joints.

Until recently, anti-inflammatory medication and steroid injections, like cortisone, offered the best chance for relief. But these options just reduced the symptoms.

“While cortisone stops the swelling and pain, it can also interfere with the healing process, and more damage can occur,” Zang explained.

Doctors can treat with the underlying problem that is causing the pain.

Summer 2021

RIT helps the body initiate its own healing response, where the body replaces, repairs, reprograms and renews diseased or injured cells. “Sometimes the body just needs a little boost to encourage the regenerative process. The growth factors in RIT do that,” Zang said.

Zang understands that patients are skeptical.

“I’ve seen excellent results,” Zang said. “RIT has great potential to offer relief.”

One of his patients had suffered for three years, and surgery was not an option. After RIT, the patient reported, “I (haven’t) noticed any pain. … This is an unbelievable outcome. … I thought this could never happen.”

Local physician talks about veins

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BY REISHA ZANG

he signs are clear: a few gray hairs, little wrinkles around the mouth and a twinge upon getting up from the couch.

It’s happening to everyone. We’re getting older. While these are familiar symptoms of aging we try to ignore, some may experience other changes that shouldn’t be dismissed.

Chronic venous insufficiency leaves patients feeling a heaviness in their legs, fatigue or aching in leg muscles, swelling, skin discoloration, tenderness or soreness, wounds that don’t heal or leg cramps at night.

A common sign is varicose veins, which may or may not be visible. It is a progressive problem that can lead to serious complications if left untreated.

“After you live with these symptoms for a while, you just accept that this is the way your legs feel. But that shouldn’t be the case,” said Dr. Jeffrey Braxton, director of venous intervention at CiC Vein Center.

“These symptoms can have an impact on the quality of your life. I want people to know that they shouldn’t

have to make subtle adjustments like not going out as often or spending less time doing the things they enjoy.”

CVI develops when excessive pressure builds up in your leg veins. This happens when your leg veins are unable to bring the blood back to the heart.

“The veins in your legs must work against the force of gravity when sitting or standing to get the blood up to your heart,” Braxton said.

“Your calf muscles act as a pump, and one-way valves inside the veins work to keep the blood flowing.

“Vein disease is surprisingly common, affecting about a third of us, but the good news is it’s manageable,” said Braxton, who is board-certified in venous and lymphatic medicine. “Vein treatments have really advanced. They are less invasive and more effective than in the past. Now, it’s all about improving quality of life.”

Innovative techniques involve closing or sealing the diseased vein. Patients are awake and alert during the procedure, with minimal discomfort.

They can walk out afterward. Each

type of treatment results with the vein shutting down and disappearing.

“Your body has plenty of veins, and there is no cause for concern when unhealthy veins are eliminated,” Braxton explained.

After the vein disappears, the body reroutes the blood to healthier veins, improving flow in the leg. Most people

notice a significant improvement within days.

“You don’t want to dismiss the symptoms of CVI as signs of aging. It’s important to pay attention to the subtle signs of this condition,” Braxton explained. “The sooner you’re seen, the better your chances are for reducing or avoiding serious complications.”

Summer 2021

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PAD Impacts Everyday Living PHOENIX –The need to stop and rest after walking a short distance because of a leg cramps, numbness in the feet or leg pain could be more than normal aging or adjusting to increased activity. While the inclination may be to think it’s just part of getting older, these symptoms may be caused by vascular insufficiency.

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is one of those conditions that is sometimes easy to dismiss. “If you find yourself needing to rest because your leg cramps when you walk even a short distance, or at night you need to stand up to relieve a cramp in your foot, that’s your legs and feet telling you they need help,” says Dr. Joel Rainwater, chief medical officer of Comprehensive Integrated Care (CiC).

“PAD is often called the silent killer because you may have it and not even know,” says Rainwater. Its diagnosis is often delayed and not identified until it has progressed.

build-up occurs gradually and hardens into plaque inside the artery restricting blood flow. Without an adequate blood supply, the body can’t get the oxygen and nutrients it needs to maintain healthy legs and feet.

“It’s not normal to have difficulty walking to your mailbox, it’s not normal to have constant leg pain or cramping,” says Rainwater.

It’s also interesting to note, that the symptoms of PAD and neuropathy are very similar. They include difficulty walking without taking a break, burning, tingling, numbness and/or pain. “When I see a patient who has been told they have neuropathy and they’ve been maximized on medication that’s not working, I know there may be something else causing it and one of the big, notorious offenders in that scenario is PAD,” says Rainwater.

PAD is caused by the buildup of fatty material inside the arteries. This

“This is something we can fix,” explains Rainwater. “The good news about PAD, is that there’s hope.

There is treatment and it’s excellent, it’s been one of the biggest success stories in all of medicine.” Patients are able to get back on their feet and everyday living with almost no downtime, no stitches and no overnight hospital stay. Medicare as well as most insurance plans will cover treatment.

“I’m here to tell patients that there are options, all they have to do is ask. They might have to ask a different doctor, but they don’t have to live with the idea that they’re going to suffer for the rest of their life,” says Rainwater. His best advice, “Go look for answers.”

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Do you have difficulty walking without taking a break?

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9

Heel Pain Is on The Rise Restaurants are busy, baseball stadiums are welcoming fans, and this summer is slated to be one of the busiest travel seasons ever. “Getting back to a normal lifestyle can be a shock to your feet,” says Dr. Kerry Zang, podiatric medical director of CiC Foot & Ankle.

More than two million Americans suffer from plantar fasciitis, a sharp, stabbing, sometimes burning pain in the heel or arch of the foot. It’s anticipated this number will rise as activity levels increase.

It typically hurts when first getting up, may lessen after a few steps but always returns. In the past, a cortisone injection was given. “Cortisone manages the pain, but it doesn’t address what’s causing the pain,” says Zang. Now, new treatment options focus on resolving the condition, not just the treating the symptoms.

“Regenerative medicine is one of the most promising ways to deal with pain, because it triggers the body to heal,” he explains. “One form is prolotherapy, which tricks the body into thinking it was injured and starts the healing process.”

The FDA recently approved cold laser therapy for plantar fasciitis.

“Laser treatment helps reduce pain, increase circulation and attracts the patient’s own growth factors to the area, all of which promote healing,” says Zang.

If left untreated pain can become chronic, but the good news is there are still options. “Growth factor therapy jump starts and maintains regeneration of new tissues,” says Zang. “It’s all about healing.”

to reduce the time it takes to do the returns and we are researching the possibility of 10 being open on Saturdays.”

However, he stressed these plans are preliminary and dependent on whether AARP Foundation officials allow the

BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI program. t 1st Classic Dental in Sun City, volunteers could Training Dr. Omaima Samain isalso passionpresent a problem due ate about dental implants. to space. Last year training at one of the Others have recognized thiswas as conducted well, Recreation Centers of Sun as she was recognized by Hiossen ImCity facilities. plant as Arizona’s top dentist.

“Plus at this point I don’t Samain has the credentials to back have any idea how many of it up, too. She earned her Doctor of the volunteers will return if Dental Surgery at New York Universiwe do have a program,” Mr. ty School of Dentistry. She trained for Graff said. two years in general dentistry and hos-the Tax-Aire proWhen pital dentistry at University of Nevagram returns, whether it be in 2021 or the next year, resda School of Medicine. She furthered

Sun City CAN’s other ser- fundraiser will be conducted vices remain available, in- soon, he added. cluding the water rebate for “I anticipate us breaking condo owners andHealth help with& Wellness even or maybe even being a electricity bills for low-in- Glencroft little in the black a little bit,” ...continued from page 1 come residents. he said.

Mr. Duncan said officials CAN officials also hope to vocational wellness — and we make are in the process of apply- increase their exposure to it a complete approach to being well,” ing for grant funds from the community, providing said.

Arizona Public Service Co. Wenzlau more opportunity for resilearn about for the electricity program. Residents dents to understand what theestate plancoping offers. with grief and anxiety, Southwest Gas, which does ning, organization not have a grant application fall Ms. Rode told the board opportuprevention, volunteer process, donated $1,000, dou- nities, duringmedical its Sept. 8benefits, meeting nutrition, ble the company’s normal hearing that Radiant 10701 loss,Church, dementia, fitness, amount, for the Crisis As- prayer W. Boswell Blvd., new and relaxation totechniques, sistance program.

Sun City, officials are trying communication skills, and other arFunds from that program to start a weekly food distrieas relevant to their ageed-and personare used for the water rebate, bution, socialization and circumstances. electricity, gas, taxi ticket and al ucation event in which othinclude swimming, walk“Paint the Town,” a new pro- Amenities er service organizations can ingparticipate. paths, massage and chiropractic gram just added.

“It is nice being an inde- services, “We are looking into being a fully equipped performance

Dr. Samain is top dentist in Arizona

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her training in removable and fixed dentures at University of Connecticut School of Dentistry and studied dental implants at Misch International Implant Institute.

A member of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists, Samain prides herself on listening to her patients and getting to know each one.

“At 1st Classic Dental, we are a team of loving and caring staff who practice comfortable health-centered dentistry,” she said.

Dr. Omaima Samain of 1st Classic Dental said she has a loving and caring staff.

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(fitness) center, a smoothie bar, yearround events and activities, pastoral support, healthy food choices and fine dining, as well as opportunities to give back to their community through volunteerism.

The ZoeLife Parkinson’s Immersion Program (PIP) is tailored to maximize individual physical and cognitive capabilities and quality of life.

Stroke survivors may participate in the ZoeLife Stroke Immersion Program (SIP) to supplement physical,

Summer 2021

cognitive and speech rehabilitation efforts.

A team of professionals, including therapists, dieticians, counselors and program administrators, work together to develop tailored programs to meet On select in-stock sets of 4 Nitto Crosstek 2, Cooper Evolution Tour and Continental SureContact RX individual goals and potential. required on all four tires. Up to 10% shop fee based on non-discounted regular retail price, not to excee See store for pricing. Eligibility may vary. Not valid with other offers. At participating locations. No cash v “We offer fitness classes, worship services and even adult education classes at Glencroft University,” Wenzlau said.

“We have five lectures this spring semester,” he said. “We tackle subjects like depression, which so many 80and 90-year-olds have.

“ZoeLife and these classes have made a huge difference in perceiving their lifestyle, compared to maybe when they got here. We’re really excited about that. It’s been well received, and people are participating and noticing a difference.”

YES ARE O

Active in the community Wenzlau is active in the senior living community at large. Fluent in German, French and English, Wenzlau has 40 years’ experience in the U.S. senior

Glencroft...continued on page 12

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Summer 2021

11

Health & Wellness

Patients come first at Associated Retina Consultants

BY ASSOCIATED RETINA CONSULTANTS

F

or more than 30 years, Associated Retina Consultants has served Arizona by providing access to the most innovative treatments of diseases and conditions affecting the retina, macula and the vitreous humor of the eye.

Associated Retina Consultants is the state’s largest independently owned retina practice. This alof a branch retinal artery occlusion left eye. lows the practice to remain Photo (Photo courtesy of Associated Retina Consultants) free of any restrictions that might inhibit it from providing pa- staff is closely monitoring the ontients the best possible treatment as it going changes and guidelines of the continues to strive for excellence. Care COVID-19 pandemic. Because of the is provided with the utmost courtesy, serious, urgent nature of some of the professionalism, comfort and respect conditions it treats, the offices will for patients’ time because, at ARC, pa- remain open for business with certain tients come first. limitations. Visit its website for more The practice recently welcomed Dr. information about its efforts as a pracRima Patel. She is board-certified in tice at associatedretinaconsultants. ophthalmology and has completed for- com. It is ARC’s priority to provide the mal subspecialty training in medical best possible care while ensuring the and surgical diseases of the retina, vit- health and safety of our patients, staff reous and macula. The practice’s team and community. For the most up-toof 10 highly skilled retina physicians date information about the COVID-19 understands how important eyesight is pandemic, visit the American Acadeand how challenging it can be coping my of Ophthalmology (aao.org) and with impaired vision. That is why our the Centers for Disease Control and practice is dedicated to the preserva- Prevention (cdc.gov). tion and restoration of sight.

Contact Associated Retina ConsulAssociated Retina Consultants’ tants at 602-242-4928.

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12

Health & Wellness

Dentist Bryce Slack is new owner of Compass Point Dental

D

BY COMPASS POINT DENTAL

r. Bryce Slack is the new owner of Compass Point Dental, something that the general dentist loves.

During his career, Slack ensures his patients are as comfortable as possible.

He has mastered the art of painless injections and is specially trained to offer conscious sedation as another way to manage dental anxiety.

He spent his childhood in the small town of LaVerkin, Utah. He earned his Bachelor of Arts degree from Dixie State College and went on to graduate with a doctorate from Tufts University School of Dental Medicine in Boston.

After four years in Oklahoma, he is excited to be back in the Sonoran Desert again. He is determined to serve and gain the trust of his patients here in Glendale. He and his wife, Brooke, keep busy with their four sons, with whom they enjoy

Dr. Bryce Slack, DMD

camping, exploring, riding bikes and watching movies.

For more information or to book an appointment, call 623-500-5793 or visit compasspointdental.com.

Glencroft...continued from page 10 living and housing industry.

To spread positive words about the industry, he is the co-producer of “Successful Aging,” a Phoenix-based independent radio talk show. He strives to help adults ages 65 and older to maximize their quality of life.

“Successful Aging” airs at 11 a.m.

Tuesdays on Independent Talk KFNX 1100 AM. For more information, call 623-847-3047.

“I hope to be a shining light for providing people access around the Valley to information they need,” he said.

“We’ve been running every Tuesday.

We have guests from all over the country. Yesterday, we had a professor from Midwestern University talking about Alzheimer’s.

“We stream it live on Facebook every week at the same time. That’s giving back to the community, which we really, really like.”

He is also an adjunct professor at the Keller Graduate School of Management in Phoenix and an adjunct instructor at Mesa Community College.

Wenzlau worked as an executive di-

Summer 2021 rector and regional director of Brookdale from June 2000 to April 2004. His experience also includes three years as executive director at Emeritus and 10 years as president at Agenor Partners LLC. He’s been with Friendship Retirement Corp., which owns Glencroft, since February 2014.

“When I came to Glencroft, I had pent-up ideas from 30 years in the for-profit segment,” he said. “It’s been a blessing to be here.

“On the flip side, I’m doing this for my mom and dad. My dad died 20 years ago, and my mom is 95. She’s not interested in moving into a senior place.

“The baby boomers are coming along. With the center, it gave me the first step at looking at the future. We want complete services for a generation that believes more so in exercise and healthy eating. We want to be attractive to baby boomers.”

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Summer 2021

13

Health & Wellness

Sanctuary Oils is a veteran-owned small business in Avondale

BY JOÉL PAGÁN JR. AND ANTONIO J. PAGÁN

S

anctuary Oils is a veteran-owned retail storefront, located in Avondale, offering holistic alternatives and relaxation products such as essential oils, topicals, bath bombs, handmade candles, edible gummies, beverages and more. All CBD products are third-party laboratory tested and contain a QR code.

The owner, Joél Pagán Sr., is a Marine Corps veteran who first began using CBD as an alternative to pain medications and knee injections, which he was prescribed over the years, to help alleviate excruciating and residual bilateral knee pain because of his time in the service.

“Both the injections and pills would give me relief for a short time only. I did not like the way the pills made me feel, nor did I want to become dependent on them, so I began to heavily research alternative therapies. That is how I discovered CBD,” Pagán Sr. said.

“At Sanctuary Oils, we believe in

providing high-quality products and delivering great customer service.

We stand behind all the products that we proudly display. I have personally tried these products, as have some of my customers who are retired service members. If they are not safe, tried and true, they are not sold in this store,” He also asks that anyone considering the use of CBD products and alternative therapies should first discuss with their primary care provider.

“Our products are not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women.

In addition to age restrictions, there are limitations for those on several medications or possessing certain medical conditions.”

“Customer safety and satisfaction are our No. 1 priority. I take pride in educating our customers so that they are empowered to make an informed decision. I always wanted to do more to help others, to give them a better quality of life.”

For more information, please contact Joél at 623-570-8711.

Sanctuary Oils is located at 303 W. Van Buren Street, Suite 105A, Avondale.

(Photo courtesy of Sanctuary Oils)

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14

Health & Wellness

Summer 2021

Airman & Family Readiness Center is never the wrong place

BY AIRMAN & FAMILY READINESS CENTER

spouses with the military and alleviate some of ctive-duty members and their these issues. spouses who are expecting a From military protocol baby, or new mothers assigned to traditions and lingo, to an Air Force installation, are encour- Heart Link teaches civilaged to contact the Airman & Family ian spouses what their Readiness Center to sign up for a Bun- military counterparts deal dles for Babies/Kids Ride Safe class. with daily. Spouses are Parents can receive a free car seat and introduced to the military learn about proper installation in their ve- community. They have hicle, parenting skills and finances; meet an important role to play: other expectant parents; and receive a keeping up the homefront bundle of supplies. That includes a large, while their spouses are decanvas tote bag with AFAS logo, ther- ployed and being a source mal receiving blanket, hooded towel and of support for the airmen. washcloth, white knit crib sheet, printed Heart Link, which is knit crib sheet, three-pack sleep-n-play, geared toward newlyweds, five-pack onesies, two pairs of booties, is designed to help connect Bundles for Babies/Kids Ride Safe class offers a free car seat so parents can learn about proper installatwo bibs and three burp cloths. military members with tion. (Photo courtesy of Airman & Family Readiness Center) Classes are open to all ranks and are their spouses. By integratnot limited to a first pregnancy.

Support for these issues empowers ing spouses into the military, it helps to understand military culture.

Military Family Life Consultants individuals during the problem-solvThe transition from singlehood to enhance mission readiness. Participants married life is tough, and marrying learn about military protocol and mili- (MFLC) provides short-term, nonmed- ing process, increases individual and a military member can pose its own tary and Air Force traditions, including ical counseling to service members and family competency and confidence in unique challenges. Heart Link is a pro- the role of coining and the Air Force their families. MFLCs augment exist- handling the stressors of military life, gram designed to familiarize civilian song. Learning these things helps them ing military support programs world- and ensures that issues do not impair wide. Through the MFLC Program, li- operational readiness. censed clinical providers assist service Exceptional Family Member Promembers and their families with issues gram (EFMP) is designed to provide they may face through the cycle of de- support to military family members ployment — from leaving their loved with special needs. EFMP services ones and possibly living and working include a variety of personnel, mediin harm’s way to reintegrating with cal and family support functions. The MILITARY MEMBERS, DOD CIVILIANS* & FAMILIES their community and family.

Exceptional Family Member ProgramSERVICES AVAILABLE: The MFLC program provides sup- Family Support (EFMP-FS) is a comMonthly • Bundles for Babies • School Liaison Officer Dept. of La • Military & Family Life Consultant Assistance Addresses educational issues port for a range of individual and fam- munity support function provided by • Heart Link (New Spouse Orientation) TAP Employmbor involving military children ily issues. Psychoeducational presenta- the Airman & Family Readiness Center ent • Employment Assistance and youth in the local Workshop • Transition Services (Active Duty to Civilian) school community tions on reunion/reintegration, stress/ that includes, but is not limited to, on• Hearts Apart Support Activities coping, grief/loss and deployment are and off-base information and referral, • Relocation & Sponsorship Services • Financial Counseling/Education provided to commands, Family Read- parent training, support group, reloca• New or Expectant Mothers Class iness Groups, Soldier Readiness Pro- tion assistance, financial management • Emergency Financial Assistance • Family Strengthening cessing and other requested locations. and school information.

Programs & Resources MFLC support is also provided to the For more information, call 623-856• Personal Development Information & Resources Child and Youth Program and specif- 6550, email 56fss.fsfr@luke.af.mil or • Exceptional Family Member Program ically for the summer DoDEA/CYP visit 7282 N. 137th Avenue, Building Provides support to Military family members with special needs summer enrichment program.

1113, Luke AFB, AZ 85309.

• Information and Referral Services

A

AIRMAN & FAMILY READINESS CENTER

NEVER THE WRONG PLACE TO GO!

• Discovery Center - Resources for relocations, transition, employment, housing, schools, and more!

• AMVETS - Provides medical records screening and assistance with VA disability claims

Contact us for further information: (623) 856-6550 Email: 56fss.fsfr@luke.af.mil 7282 N. 137th Ave. Bldg.1113 Luke AFB, AZ. 85309 “We’re never the wrong place to go!” *Limited Services for DoD Civilians and their families

glendalestar.com The latest breaking news and top local stories in Glendale!

ZoeLife has another tool in its arsenal

Summer 2021

15

Health & Wellness

BY STEVE HELLER

C

hronic pain can be debilitating, taking a toll mentally and physically.

It is a hurdle we must overcome as we age. For this reason, we have introduced electro stimulation (acuscope/myopulse machine) to Glencroft’s ZoeLife program.

Haloe Health brought its pain management technology called the electro-acuscope and electro myopulse to the campus. While the technology they use for pain has been around a long time, it has primarily been available to professional athletes.

During the first phase with the Haloe Health team, Glencroft staff saw potential in combining this state-of-the-art technology with the ZoeLife model of successful aging. Half of those enrolled in the program received sessions on the device

during the first beta group, and the other half did not. The data was convincing; the residents receiving the sessions with the device showed significantly more improvement than their counterparts not receiving sessions. With these positive results, the staff knew it had to get the equipment on campus.

Finally, the pain management equipment is on the campus permanently. Glencroft has begun working with its residents on a very customized and calculated strategy to bring this technology to them regularly and at no cost.

For more information about the electro-acuscope and electro myopulse machine or to learn more about the ZoeLife program and Glencroft Center for Modern Aging, call 623847-3103.

Glencroft Center for Modern Aging’s Steve Heller demonstrates an e-stim machine. (Photo courtesy of Glencroft Center for Modern Aging)

Accepting New Patients To schedule an appointment call

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Please visit us at our NEW Glendale Location: 6316 W. Union Hills Drive Suite 200 Glendale, AZ 85308 New Patients Welcome • Most Insurances and Medicare Accepted

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16

Health & Wellness

T U O G N I K C O N K

FREE Parkinson’s evaluation and customized program when you tour Glencroft.

623-847-3103 | glencroft.com

Summer 2021