SeniorVoice Spring 2018
WESTCHESTER
free
TAKE HOME
Connecting BOOMERS and SENIORS to the Best Local Information
Eating Organic: Why Bother? YES! Your CREDIT SCORE Still Matters
the fun of
bargain shopping
Tax Help
FOR FREE!! westchesterseniorvoice.com
Spring Calendar
MUST SEE
AT LEAST ONCE in YOUR LIFETIME
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Enjoy a Mini Vacation in Scarsdale
For over 25 years, Tranquility Spa has been a destination location in Westchester for a calming, life-enhancing experience – an ideal place for guests to relax their bodies, focus their minds, improve their moods, increase their sense of well-being, and get away from the stresses of daily life. For seniors, Tranquility offers a number of treatments to help manage fine lines, lighten age spots, and relieve dry skin during the winter season by infusing it with moisture.
Massage Therapies Spa Facials Body Treatments Waxing Day-Of-Pamper Spa Packages Custom Parties NEW! Laser Treatments by Cutera®
Gift Certificates for all Tranquility Spa Services available online: TranquilitySpa.com
917 Central Park Avenue • Scarsdale • 914.713.0066 • www.TranquilitySpa.com Monday-Friday 9AM-9PM • Saturday/Sunday 9-6PM • Ample Free Parking
from the publisher
SeniorVoice WESTCHESTER
"You are what you eat." Or, more specifically, how our bodies function relate to how we nourish them. I've always been a big believer in this philosophy: honored, generally, while acknowleding the breaches. When I was in my mid-20s, I decided to live a "macrobiotic" food lifestyle: not an easy task when dining out or even dining in as it happens. Back then, there was no Whole Foods, Mrs. Green's, or Trader Joe's: just musty little stores that usually had a peculiar smell. Still, I could find my almost freshly-ground nut butter and acceptable whole grains. I experimented with a variety of foods but, after a couple of years, abandoned the effort. Next came Dr. Peter D'Adamo's "Eat Right 4 Your Blood Type," based on the science that different blood types process foods differently, and we should avoid the foods that our body cannot digest efficiently or that do us harm. I ate that way for quite a while and am actually still a fan. Stomach aches disappeared and I slimmed down, but I also started to miss some of my favorite foods that I was supposed to avoid: like artichokes, shrimp and peanut butter. And now, to further complicate matters, we need to worry about whether our food has been genetically modified or exposed to pesticides, hormones, and antibiotics. Surprisingly, especially given my fascination with what I consume, I admit to ignoring much of the talk about eating organic: feeling like it was just another way to get me to spend more at the supermarket. But I could not have been more mistaken. Now, when I look at a non-organic container of blueberries in the market, I feel as if I have x-ray vision and can see the pesticides sitting inside that pretty little berry - appearances aren't everything. And I wouldn't dream of purchasing chicken raised on antibiotics or milk from cows shot full of hormones. No, this is not just another fad. This is about giving real thought to what we're putting in our bodies and what the longer term consequences are. That's why I'm so excited to share with you our article on Page 20, "Should You Be Eating Organic?" You now know where I stand, but please read and make your own informed choices. I am also thrilled to present other content that may be equally important or entertaining for you: from our spotlight story on Coming to America (a nod to this essential part of America's greatness); what you should know about the new tax law and why "gifting" to family is not always the best choice; expert health advice on hearing loss, stress tests and keeping an eye on your balance; plus our best-ever Spring calendar of events, and more! Since knowledge is power, here's to creating and maintaining a powerful and informed community of boomers and seniors.
PUBLISHER
Susan E. Ross publisher@westchesterseniorvoice.com 914.380.2990
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Susie Aybar Maryanne D’Amato and Ali Jackson-Jolley Debbie and David Feldman Michael Giannasca and Brian Miller Nancy Kessler Daryl F. Moss Denis Murnane Susan G. Parker Dr. A. Garvey Rene Colin Sandler Carol Schmitz Julie Woodward
DISTRIBUTION/CIRCULATION Rare Sales, Inc. / Bob Engelman 914.661.3605
To the professionals, businesses, services, medical practices and others who are receiving single or multiple copies of this magazine: This magazine has been provided free and we encourage our readers to take the copy home with them so they can refer to it for future use. If you would like to receive additional free copies for your clients, patrons, or patients, please let us know. To our readers: We are able to publish and distribute this magazine through the support of our advertisers. Please let them know you reached out to them because of Westchester Senior Voice. Opinions expressed in articles appearing in this magazine do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher. Publisher is not responsible for errors in advertising or claims made by advertisers. We do not knowingly accept any advertising that violates any law. Opinions, articles and advertising appearing in this magazine should not be construed as endorsement by the Publisher of any product, service, or person. Volume 3.2 Spring 2018 Copyright © Voice Media LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. Westchester Senior Voice Print ISSN 2469-5203 Online ISSN 2469-5211 Publishing Quarterly plus an Annual Guide Find us for free in close to 1,000 locations throughout Westchester or online at: www.WestchesterSeniorVoice.com
As always, wishing us all love and peace,
We welcome your feedback, inquiries, and submissions via email or USPS. We reserve the right to publish all letters to the editor and/or publisher without approval of the sender. VOICE MEDIA LLC WESTCHESTER SENIOR VOICE PO BOX 301 WHITE PLAINS, NY 10605
Susan E. Ross Publisher and Certified Senior Advisor® publisher@westchesterseniorvoice.com
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WHEN YOU’RE IN PAIN AND DON’T KNOW WHERE TO TURN… TURN TO PHELPS We are pleased to announce the launch of a Holistic Pain Support Program at Phelps Hospital.. People suffering from chronic pain will have access to comprehensive pain management services including exercise, nutritional guidance, psychological support and complementary medicine practices in addition to our Pain Center. The Holistic Pain Support Program offers these services on a rotating basis every second and fourth Tuesday of the month at 12:00pm in the Family Medicine Residency Conference Room. Our holistic approach to chronic pain management includes: ▪ Educational programs on acupuncture, mindfulness, and activities of daily living ▪ General exercise and tai chi sessions ▪ Complementary medicine approaches including relaxation/ meditation, guided imagery, music therapy and pet therapy ▪ Support groups for effectively dealing with chronic pain Sessions are open to the public. For more information, contact Ellen Woods at 914-366-3937 or ewoods3@northwell.edu. 701 North Broadway, Sleepy Hollow, NY 10591 www.phelpshospital.org
contents Spring 2018
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our advertisers 13 alice tseng, reverse mortgage professional 31 alzheimer's association, hudson valley 39 bethel homes and services 10 braemar at wallkill 8 brightview tarrytown 22 caremount medical 29 community hearing services 25 concept care 33 crickett care 16 dorot westchester 23 edgehill 16 elder care connection 35 fieldhome 25 firstlight homecare 7 giannasca & shook, pllc 13 home again transitions 17 the knolls 28 medicaid solutions 11 my second home 33 nancy gould, long-term care insurance 5 phelps hospital-northwell health 9 rideconnect 27 riverspring health-hebrew home 11 seniors helping seniors 2 shen yun 9 susan parker, esq. 3 tranquility spa 39 vna of hudson valley 7 wartburg 40 waveny lifecare network 35 westchester philharmonic
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TAX TIME
Trained volunteers can help you with your taxes, at no charge. Plus, know what the new tax law has in store for you.
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EATING ORGANIC
26
NUCLEAR STRESS TESTS
30
CREDIT SCORES
Learn what it really means to be eating organic, why you may want to consider this as a food lifestyle and what you should look out for.
CareMount physician Dr. A Garvey Rene goes nuclear with us. What is nuclear testing? Who should be tested, how accurate are the results?
SVP of Community Banking at Tompkins Mahopac Bank explains why you still want to keep an eye on your credit score.
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departments 10 lifelong learning: senior u 12 home: rightsizing 24 wellness advocate: balance disorders 26 health & wellness: nuclear stress tests 31 entertainment and community calendar 38 healthy kitchen columns 14 unretiring: bargain shopping 16 legal matters: when not to gift 27 community: stepwise now 28 medicaid advisor: the application process 29 sound advice: dangers of hearing loss 30 money matters: credit scores Westchester Senior Voice connects boomers and seniors with the local professionals and businesses that serve them. Within our pages, we aim to inspire, educate and exchange information in an embracing, respectful and Inclusive way.
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Elder Law and Estate Planning Group Planning For Our Clients and Their Families
Elder Law Wills & Probate Trusts & Estates Medicaid Planning Long Term care Guardianships Powers of Attorneys Health Care Proxies
Giannasca & Shook, PLLC One Barker Avenue | White Plains, New York 10601 | 914-872-6000 | www.mgns-elderlaw.com
Live Your Best Life
Our continuing care approach means families trust Wartburg to be there... how and when they need us to be. • • • • • •
Independent Living Assisted Living Alzheimer’s/Dementia Care Nursing Home Adult Day Care Inpatient Rehabilitation
• • • •
Outpatient Rehabilitation Hospice Care Caregiver Support Spiritual Care
wartburg.org
thewartburg
thewartburg
wartburgny
Named “Best Nursing Home in New York State” in 2017 by U.S. News and World Report for the seventh consecutive year.
One Wartburg Place Mount Vernon, NY 10552 914-699-0800 Wartburg.org INDEPENDENT LIVING x ASSISTED LIVING x ALZHEIMER’S/DEMENTIA CARE x NURSING HOME x ADULT DAY CARE x HOME CARE INPATIENT/OUTPATIENT REHABILITATION x HOSPICE CARE x CAREGIVER SUPPORT x SPIRITUAL CARE spring 2018
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Brightview. Bright
Life!
Free Tax Help
From the AARP Foundation By Julie Woodward
Lives
Inspiring Bright for All Our Residents Discover exceptional senior living for Mom and Dad • Respectful, customized care • Cultural and social events • Experienced associates • Luxury amenities • Gourmet meals • Specialized dementia care neighborhood Call Kaitlin to schedule your personal visit.
914.400.1284 581 Old White Plains Road Tarrytown, NY 10591 www.BrightviewTarrytown.com
For easily 25 years now, Westchester seniors have been able to get their tax returns processed and filed for free. A program established by the AARP Foundation Tax-Aide organization 50 years ago is running strong in 20 libraries and other sites across the county. All you need is your 2017 paperwork and, at times, a little patience. You’ll be seen on a first-come, first-served basis. HOW DOES THE PROGRAM WORK? Each fall, about 100 volunteer preparers hit the books and refresh themselves on tax law, making sure they understand any recent legislative extenders and new directives for the 2018 tax season. After a further seven days of formal lectures and hands-on computer instruction in January, they took an advanced test for IRS certification. Some got certified for additional aspects of tax law. Seniors who already know about the program have rounded up their paperwork for the 2017 tax year (1099s, W-2s, expenses, ACA documents, etc.), their social security cards, a photo ID, and a copy of last year’s return, and have headed to one of the local libraries and community centers that host the program. Once there, greeters have assigned them to the next available preparer. If you’ve never experienced this process before, expect not only to be asked a whole lot of questions to guarantee
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the best handling of your particular situation, but to participate actively while your information is entered into the computer. The preparer will then ask a colleague to review his or her work for typos and other kinds of errors, and when it’s good to go – and you’ve approved it! – the return will be sent off electronically to the IRS and to New York State (or any other state site). You’ll then be on your way with a printed copy for your records and information relating to your refund or any balance you’ll have to send in. DO THE VOLUNTEERS PREPARE ANYONE’S RETURN? The program is designed to reach low- to middle-income taxpayers, with some emphasis on those over 60. Of course, there are some out-of-scope issues the volunteers are not allowed to handle (e.g., Schedule C businesses with net losses, employees, depreciation, or rental property, etc.). The program started up on February 1st this year, but you’ll have until April 17th to enjoy the service. Don’t wait until the last minute! (Sites in Westchester County that offer the tax service can be found at: https://secure.aarp.org/applications/ VMISLocator/searchTaxAideLocations. action) n n n
Julie Woodward is a volunteer for the Westchester Library System’s "Demystifying Medicare" presentations and a certified preparer in the AARP Foundation Tax-Aide program, where she specializes in how the Affordable Care Act is handled in tax returns.
The New Tax Law What Changes for You? By Susan G. Parker, Esq. The new tax law made sweeping changes on many fronts. The big change, especially affecting homeowners in our area, is a new $10,000 cap on deductions for property taxes and state and local income taxes (referred to as SALT). For those who itemize deductions, this could lead to a higher tax bill. Here’s why: Assume a taxpayer is in the 30% bracket under the old and new law. If the property taxes on a home are $25,000, and state income taxes are $15,000, the deduction against federal taxes is $10,000 under the new law, instead of $40,000. With $30,000 no longer deductible, an additional $9,000 in taxes is due. These items also affect home ownership: (1) Under the new law, the deduction for mortgage interest is limited to acquisition debt of up to $750,000 for a mortgage incurred after December 15, 2017. The prior limit was $1 million. (2) Interest on a home equity loan, previously deductible up to $100,000, is no longer deductible for new or existing interest on home equity lines of credit. In other news of note:
n 529 account holders can
now use up to $10,000 per year to pay for tuition for elementary, secondary, public, private or religious school. n For divorce or separation agreements entered
after December 31, 2018, alimony is no longer deductible, nor is it additional income to the recipient. n Job-related moving expenses (except active military), tax prep fees, and unreimbursed employee expenses are no longer deductible.
House calls from a lawyer? We take pride in providing excellent legal service—anywhere. Our specialties include elder law, Medicaid planning, estate planning, probate, and business matters. For more information, contact us today for an affordable consultation.
Susan Parker Esq. PC (914) 923-1600 susan@susanparkerlaw.com
Under the new law, only those who itemize deductions can deduct charitable contributions. However, for big donors who itemize, the allowable deduction is increased from 50% of AGI to 60%. It may be a good idea to clump contributions and medical expenses to every other year, for example, so the taxpayer can itemize in some years - to maximize deductions. The exemption for estate tax has doubled to $11,200,000. While it’s good news for some, 17 states still have some sort of estate or inheritance tax. This means tax planning will still be needed for many people. One publication reported that under the old law, 5,500 people paid estate tax, but with the new exemption, it seems the tax will only be imposed on 1,700 people! n n n
Susan G. Parker specializes in estate planning, probate, elder law and business planning. She is licensed to practice law in New York and Florida and maintains a practice in Westchester County. She has authored four books on elder law and estate planning. 520 N. State Rd., Suite 301A, Briarcliff Manor, NY 10510; 914-9231600; susan@susanparkerlaw.com; www.susanparkerlaw.com spring 2018
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520 N. State Road – Suite 301A Briarcliff Manor, NY 10510 www.susanparkerlaw.com
Volunteers Needed Making a Difference... One Ride at a Time!
RideConnect provides free volunteer transportation to older adults age 60+ in Westchester County. These rides enable clients to remain active and continue to lead fulfilling lives. Please consider giving the gift of mobility and independence! For more information on volunteering or to request a ride, contact us at (914) 242-7433. www.RideConnectWestchester.org
westchesterseniorvoice.com
lifelong learning
Senior U
College Degrees For Aspiring Adults By Susie Aybar ave you always wanted to go to college but never had the opportunity? If you are over 65 and live in lower Westchester, you may soon have your chance. Concordia College in Bronxville is partnering with Wartburg in Mt. Vernon to enable retirees to earn college degrees. Senior U will start this fall at Wartburg, with hopes of expanding to additional locations in Westchester.
H
David Gentner, Wartburg CEO and President, states, “There are seniors who are active and vital and interested... in bettering themselves, many of those who have
BRAEMAR AT WALLKILL
| SETTING A NEW STANDARD FOR ASSISTED LIVING Since opening in 2015, Braemar at Wallkill has provided Hudson Valley with a new experience in assisted living. Located on a beautiful six-acre property in Middletown, NY, with convenient access to Highways 17 and 84, Braemar at Wallkill offers seniors the best in care at an equally attractive price. Visit us today and see the comforts and programs that make Braemar at Wallkill a true home for our residents. 21 Riverside Drive | Middletown, NY 10941 845-695-5600 | Wallkill@BraemarLiving.com www.BraemarLiving.com westchesterseniorvoice.com
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never had a chance to earn a college degree. We have created an option that is at very low-cost or no-cost.” Jim Bunn, Special Assistant to the President at Concordia College, used a Wartburg focus group to develop Senior U. “The seniors have informed us every step of the way, which has been fantastic; it has morphed into a program that is designed by seniors, for seniors.” Bunn says that Senior U will not be typical adult education, where people take one class at a time and chip away at a degree. It will be full “immersion.” While the program is not set in stone yet, the plan is for three class days each week, five hours a day. Students will travel with a cohort through the program and earn a two-year Associate’s Degree or a fouryear Bachelor’s Degree in Interdisciplinary Studies. The program will be fully accredited and tailored to seniors. Bunn describes the classes as “experiential and participatory.” Sample classes range from computer training, money management, music, art and history to spirituality and social media.
Companion care at home like no one else can ... Only Seniors Helping Seniors® matches your needs, interests, and schedule with skilled, compassionate care providers – all over 55 years old – who understand firsthand the changes that come with aging. Let us help you maintain a sense of well-being and connection to the life you love.
Unique, at-home care including: 4 Companionship in your home. 4 Flexible help: a few hours a week or full days 4 Assistance with day-to-day needs: light
housekeeping, meal preparation, medication reminders 4 Daily errands: groceries, pharmacy, post office 4 Transportation: medical appointments, recreational outings, social visits
914.263.7716 www.seniorshelpingseniors.com/NWestchesterPutnam
Serving Westchester& Putnam Counties, New York
I n d e P e n d e n c e | d I g n I t y | c h o I c e | Since 1998
Concordia faculty will teach classes and transportation will be provided to Wartburg from areas in lower Westchester. Students may expect to visit Concordia’s campus for art exhibitions, concerts and/or other activities relating to their coursework. Gentner suggests participants will benefit in a number of ways: the pride from earning a college degree, as well as nonacademic rewards such as meeting new friends, discovering new talents, and improving one’s physical and mental health. Bunn believes the program can not only help people think in new ways, but it can give more structure and purpose to the lives of people who participate. Says Bunn, Senior U is “a re-imagined college curriculum unlike anything else.”
An Intergenerational Adult Day Program providing dementia care
Why be home alone?
Come spend the day with us — exercise your brain and warm your heart.
Mount Kisco • 914-241-0770 White Plains • 914-422-8100 www.fsw.org/msh
To learn more, contact Concordia University at 914-337-9300 ext. 2124.
My Second Home is a program of Family Services of Westchester and receives funding from Westchester County Department of Senior Programs & Services
n n n
Susie Aybar, BSN, MFA, is a writer based in Westchester County. A published poet, Susie facilitates a
MUSIc & MeMoRySM Certified Care Facility Partner • Dementia Care 2016 Adult day Services Innovator Award from national Adult day Services Association (nAdSA)
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home
Rightsizing Begins Here By Debbie and David Feldman
ou've been thinking about it. Maybe, you've even had a conversation with your partner or parent about it. But how do you know it's really time to be considering "it" more seriously? We are, of course, talking about selling and downsizing your home or that of a loved one.
Y
In fact, there are several signs that indicate it's time to ratchet up the conversation: n Is only half of the home being lived in? n Have stairs become a challenge? n Has it been years since visiting the basement or attic? n Is the house not as clean as it used to be? n Is "stuff" just piling up? n Is the home too expensive to maintain? If you're saying yes to one or more of these questions, the time may be right for downsizing or better said – rightsizing. So now you've tested the temperature on rightsizing. You're not quite ready to hammer the For Sale sign into the front lawn, but the on ramp is now in sight. What steps can you take to get a bit closer to a more optimal living situation? First, consider all that stuff that's been piling up. You can begin by giving away items to family and friends so they may enjoy that cherished picture, knick-knack or furniture as much as you did. Know-
ing that someone you love will think of you when they see it is what keeps the memory from that item alive. Next, take a first run at what you no longer want to keep. Should it be donated or trashed? Pick one room as your starting point and after you make some progress, go to another room. Anything, big or small, that is removed is a step in the right direction. If your children will help, that is wonderful but, many times, they live out of town so you'll need some outside help. One of the challenges of downsizing/sorting is that we may be unable to give away many of our possessions. Oftentimes, family members simply do not want what mom and dad had: regardless of the quality or value of the items. One option is to try and sell what is left through an estate sale, online auction or even Craig's list. But seller beware - often the value in the market place is not as high as the value you place on it. Of course, try to get as much money as you can, but keep in mind the goal is not to have to pay to have it removed. Sometimes, the best course of action is to donate whatever you can and know you're helping another family. Sorting and de-cluttering is an important part of the downsizing process, but there is still more to accomplish. After you've determined where you are going to move,
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the next step is to decide what you want to take with you. What will you use? What will fit? What must you take to make sure you feel at home in your next place? Eventually, you'll come face to face with all the "to do's" required before, during and after the actual move: from lining up the moving company, packing/ unpacking, handling all of the change of address notifications with credit card companies, insurance, utilities, cable company, etc. to cable installation/hook ups, cleaning up the former home and even getting the bed made for your first night in your new home. Don’t try and tackle everything yourself or at once. Ask for help when you need it. If you can’t coax your children or friends into assisting you in this process, contact a professional. They have processes, systems (some tricks too) as well as many resources to get you ready to move to a more fitting place. n n n
Debbie and David Feldman are the owners of Home Again Transitions, and handle all aspects of moving and the entire To Do List. They specialize in senior move management, and can be reached at 914-734-9187 or david@homeagainny.com; learn more at www. homeagainny.com
spring 2018
Opioid Addiction By Barbara Stern
There is no age discrimination when it comes to addiction. Older adults who are prescribed pain medication are just as susceptible to addiction as younger, recreational users. For years, doctors have been prescribing opioid drugs, such as OxyContin, Vicodin, and Percocet for chronic pain. According to the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (NCADD), approximately 30 percent of adults over 65 are prescribed some type of medicine for chronic pain. This may also include Benzodiazepines, commonly known as Valium, Xanax, Klonopin and Librium, prescribed for anxiety, depression, sleeplessness , alcohol, withdrawal, and other conditions. Despite the intended purpose, these drugs can lead to physical and psychological dependence. Our nation is in the midst of a deadly drug epidemic, and it's hitting older adults particularly hard. Here are some questions you might ask yourself or your friends and family: 1. Are you taking your medications within the prescribing guidelines? 2. Are you taking your prescribed medication when you don't need them? 3. Are you requesting early refills or reporting lost or stolen medication? 4. Are you doctor shopping to attain prescriptions?
Start living a better life today! What would you do if you could: ü Eliminate monthly mortgage payments* ü Pay down high interest credit cards** ü Defer Social Security benefits**
Applying is easy!
Alice Tseng, NMLS 974322 Reverse Mortgage Originator Sponsored by AAG
888-988-6939 ext. 8451 ATseng@aag.com
*You must still live in the home as your primary residence, continue to pay required property taxes, homeowners insurance, and maintain the home according to Federal Housing Administration requirements. ** Consult your financial advisor and appropriate government agencies for any effect on taxes or government benefits. NMLS# 9392 (www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org). American Advisors Group (AAG) is headquartered at 3800 W. Chapman Ave., 3rd & 7th Floors, Orange CA, 92868. AAG conducts business in NY (Licensed Mortgage Banker-NYS Department of Financial Services; American Advisors Group operates as American Advisors Group, Inc. in New York.) AAG is an equal housing lender. A reverse mortgage increases the principal mortgage loan amount and decreases home equity (it is a negative amortization loan). AAG works with other lenders and financial institutions that offer reverse mortgages. To process your request for a reverse mortgage, AAG may forward your contact information to such lenders for your consideration of reverse mortgage programs that they offer. Borrowers are responsible for paying property taxes and homeowner’s insurance (which may be substantial). We do not establish an escrow account for disbursements of these payments. A set-aside account can be set up to pay taxes and insurance and may be required in some cases. Borrowers must occupy home as their primary residence and pay for ongoing maintenance; otherwise the loan becomes due and payable. The loan also becomes due and payable when the last borrower, or eligible non-borrowing surviving spouse, dies, sells the home, permanently moves out, defaults on taxes or insurance payments, or does not otherwise comply with the loan terms. These materials are not from HUD or FHA and were not approved by HUD or a government agency.
If you answered "yes" to any of the above questions, you should consider talking to your doctor. You may be at risk for dependence or heading towards addiction to prescribed medications. There is help. You do not need to experience pain, depression, and/or anxiety alone. Many types of counseling or therapy are available here in Westchester. And, there are alternatives to medication. Talk this over with your family, friends, and professionals. Be aware and ask for guidance. n n n
Barbara Stern, MS/MPS/CASAC is a credentialed substance abuse counselor specializing in addiction concerns for older adults. She can be reached at Lexington Center, Mt. Kisco office: 914-666-6740 ext 1917; www.lexingtonctr.org spring 2018
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Six Great Places to shop for
It’s “out with the old, in with the new” as we embrace the time-tested tradition of spring cleaning followed by spring shopping. And since we all know the hunt is sweeter and more gratifying when there's a bargain involved, here's a look at our favorite places to spring into savings this season.
BARGAINS! By Ali Jackson-Jolley and Maryanne D’Amato
HomeGoods
If you love the thrill of the hunt, you’ll adore HomeGoods, the fun, well-organized bargain department store with both one-of-a-kind handcrafted merchandise and high-end designer goods for your home. But beware... new inventory arrives every week, meaning you are almost guaranteed to go home with a find every time you shop. Owned by the T.J. Maxx brand of companies, these folks know exactly how to meld value and appeal. If you don’t have the time to drive to your closest HomeGoods to see what’s new, now there’s an app for that! Download the HomeGoods app to find the latest merchandise in stores closest to you. And check out the HomeGoods online tool, StyleScope (www.homegoods.com/stylescope), aimed at helping you hone your personal home-design style. (Westchester: Baldwin Place, Port Chester; CT: Stamford, Norwalk, Westport)
Fox’s
Calling all shopaholics and fashionistas….here's high-fashion that won’t break the bank. Leave with bags full of designer dresses, skirts, sweaters, tops, outerwear and jewelry — and still have some money left in your wallet for a quick lunch at Eastchester's Piper’s Kilt. (Makes for the perfect girls' afternoon.) If finding that (notso-hidden) gem makes you giddy, you will love storming the clothing racks at Fox’s. Since new merchandise arrives weekly, no matter when you drop in, there are always great new buys. (Eastchester, NY; Stamford, CT)
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DSW
Think of it as the Costco for shoes... Designer Shoe Warehouse is packed with aisle after aisle of brand-name shoes − all sold at a deep discount. After you’ve found the perfect shoes, browse DSW's expansive selection of accessories including bags, socks, leggings and scarves. Don’t miss the back-of-the-store clearance racks, where you'll love to browse the well-organized, superdiscounted, merchandise in every size! (NY: White Plains, Port Chester, Yonkers; CT: Stamford, Fairfield, Danbury):
Christmas Tree Shops
Don’t let the name fool you. This wonderful chain, which began as a gift boutique on Cape Cod, has all sorts of bargains for every season of the year. In fact, this is our go-to place for all our spring gardening needs. Stock up on discounted planters and gardening tools. Don't miss their amazing array of wooden birdhouses, a perfect accent to any spring garden! Plus, find home goods, placemats, oven mitts, along with bargain-priced k-cups for your Keurig cofee machine. (Harts-
dale, NY; Danbury,
Woodbury Common Premium Outlets
Nordstrom Rack
If you love the high-end parent company known for carrying oodles of designer-brand bags, shoes, and fashions, then you will really love Nordstrom Rack, the off-brand sister store offering the same brands for 30 to 70 percent off! We’re talking Burberry, DKNY Jeans, Kate Spade, BCBG, and Ugg... just to name a few. Don’t miss the Clear the Rack sale, which occurs about once a month, (usually toward the end of the month), when the already ridiculously bargain-priced goods are reduced by another 25 percent! (White Plains)
Located just off the New York State Thruway, this outlet center features 240 of the best high-end fashion and designer retail brands every shopper is looking for, including: Tory Burch, Nike, Polo Ralph Lauren, Michael Kors, Burberry, Coach, and North Face, all at savings that can’t be beat. While Woodbury Common is massive, it’s designed to be reminiscent of a quaint colonial village, so you can pop from store to store without that overwhelming vibe you find at other outlets. They offer free Wi-Fi, a shoppers' trolley to transport you around the property, and best of all - a Shake Shack in the newly renovated Market Hall. spring 2018 15 westchesterseniorvoice.com (Central Valley, NY)
legal matters
When Gifting Does NOT Make Sense:
Stepped-Up Basis One of the commonly misunderstood (or perhaps unknown) issues to be considered with regard to the gifting/transferring of one’s property is the issue of “step-up in basis.” Internal Revenue Code §1014(a) provides that the cost basis of property for the person acquiring same from a decedent is the fair market value (FMV) of the property at the date of the decedent’s death (or FMV within six months of the decedent’s death if such election is made). Consider the following scenario: Ruth is an 80-year-old widow, with two
By Michael Giannasca and Brian Miller
adult children. Three years ago, Ruth gifted her home to her children and filed all the appropriate gift tax returns. She made this gift to avoid probate and for Medicaid planning. Ruth purchased the home for $125,000, but it had a fair market value of $950,000 at the time of the gift. The general rule for gifting is that the gift recipient takes on the gift giver's cost basis ($125,000 in this case). Assuming neither of the children lived in the home since the time of the gift, they will incur capital gains tax on $825,000 (should the house sells for its FMV of $950,000).
The 2018 long-term investment (property owned more than one year) federal capital gains tax brackets are 0%, 15% or 20% depending on the individual filer’s tax bracket. Without knowing more about Ruth’s children, at a capital gains tax of 15%, her children would owe $123,750 in federal capital gains tax alone. And this does not include any additional state or local taxes owed. Internal Revenue Code §1014(a) allows for a step-up in basis through making incomplete gifts. Had Ruth sought legal advice, she may have placed the home into a grantor trust, or even transfered the
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home to her children while retaining a life estate: thus giving the children the property with the basis being its FMV at the time of Ruth’s death and potentially avoiding that $123,750 capital gains tax altogether. Often people only learn of the issues that arise from the gift, long after the gift is made. A common misconception is that the simple solution would be to return the gift. However, the receiver of a gift has nine months to disclaim the gift, and must not have accepted the interest disclaimed or any of its benefits. In Ruth’s scenario, more than nine months have passed, the children have already accepted the gift, and thus her children are not able to disclaim the gift. As such, any return of the gifts by her children would be considered new gifts to Ruth, requiring her children to file appropriate gift tax returns. In the above scenario, Ruth gave
her children the home with a basis of $125,000. Assuming the children returned the gift and filed the necessary gift tax returns, they will give Ruth back her home with the same basis that she had prior to the transfer ($125,000). While this may sound like a solution to provide her children with a step-up in basis upon Ruth’s death, Ruth must survive the receipt of the gift by one year for her children to receive a step-up in basis upon her death. If Ruth does not survive the receipt of the gift by one year, her children will receive her basis, which is $125,000 for the home. Making taxable gifts to one’s family without proper legal advice can have detrimental consequences. While the above scenario discusses the gift of a home, similar appreciated property such as stocks, art, jewelry, rare metals, collections, real property, etc. would be subject
to a step-up in basis upon one’s death as well. The above scenario points out how Ruth’s children may incur significant capital gains taxes, which could have been avoided with proper planning. Before making a gift of considerable value, it is always recommended that you discuss your intentions with an experienced elder law attorney. n n n
Michael Giannasca and Brian Miller are attorneys with the law firm of Giannasca & Shook, PLLC. The Elder Law & Estate Planning Group of the firm handles all aspects of Elder Law including wills & probate, trusts & estates, Medicaid planning, guardianships, estate administration and litigation, and asset protection. Locations at 1 Barker Avenue, Suite 325, White Plains, NY 10601; 914-872-6000; and at 2649 South Road/U.S. Route 9, Suite 106, Poughkeepsie, NY 12601; 845-293-6300; www.mgns-elderlaw.com
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spotlight
Coming to
America As told to Nancy Kessler
You don't need to look far to see that Westchester is truly a melting pot of people who have come from around the world to make this county their home. While many of the people we meet are first, second and third generation Americans, here, we celebrate one of our own residents by telling his story of coming to America. The youngest of four children, born in the port city of Piraeus, Greece, Argyris Karagis served in the Greek military before joining the Merchant Marines. In 1967, at the age of 24, he jumped ship in Baltimore Harbor, slipped past immigration officials and, with only five dollars in his pocket, westchesterseniorvoice.com
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he made his way to New York City. Once there, he located a second cousin and started working for him: pumping gas on 12-hour shifts for an hourly wage of $1.65. Like many other immigrants, he lived sparingly, regularly sending money home to his family in Greece. By then, he had changed his first name to Syl (a derivation of his Greek name, meaning "silver" or "something of value") and soon, with true entrepreneurial spirit and a driving desire to make his way in America, became partowner in five gas stations. But despite supervising 60 employees, he was constantly fearful of being deported as
From the Greek Port of Piraeus
to Mamaroneck
he was without legal immigration status. Shortly thereafter, Syl entered into something of a "marriage of convenience," which lasted ten years and brought him his daughter, Anastasia. Of course, rocky roads are to be expected. And when the bad times hit, Syl could be found operating a single gas station in a crime-ridden section of Queens, NY. Because the station was busy filling gas tanks and pulling in a lot of cash, it became an easy and obvious target for criminals. Syl recalls being robbed on a regular basis, at least monthly, and sometimes at gunpoint. So while the gas shortage of 1974 helped keep the station profitable, the dangerous location ultimately led to its demise. Fast forward to 1980, when Syl was 37
years old. Ever the entrepreneur, he had the idea of opening up a cheese shop right here in Westchester - Mamaroneck, to be exact. He felt confident going in to the enterprise as he was promised help from someone in a similar business. He built a nice store on Boston Post Road. And true to the saying, "Build it and they will come," they did. The store was packed on that first day. Day two rolled around and his "mentor" was no where to be found. But Syl was never one to be deterred. Not afraid of hard work, long hours or worry, he pressed on: learning the business and catering to his customers. With time, he turned the shop into a small eatery and introduced the concept of salads, at just the beginning of the salad revolution. It was called Esy's Kafe. Through persistence and creativity, Esy's became very popular,
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catering mostly to women who found the menu healthy and appealing. Within two years, he had opened a second location, this one in White Plains on Mamaroneck Avenue. Bringing his unique set of skills and sheer determination, Syl turned the new location into another successful business. Now, happily remarried for over 21 years, Syl embodies everything it means to come to America and achieve the life of your dreams through hard work, persistence and grace. n n n
Nancy Kessler, owner and founder of Memoirs Plus, helps people write their memoirs. She collects stories, memorabilia, and photographs to create an heirloom book for generations to come. Contact Nancy at memoirsplus@gmail. com or 914-261-0834; www.memoirsplus.com
healthy living
Should You Be
Eating Organic? By Daryl F. Moss
This can be a somewhat complicated question. So, first, let's address what the word "organic" really means when talking about food. Understandably, many people think that organic refers to no chemicals used in the growing process or animals eating only their traditional diets: nothing genetically modified. In reality, the word "organic" has several layers. Have you ever seen this sticker on food?
According to the USDA website, in order to make an organic claim or use the USDA Organic seal, the final product must follow strict standards and go through the organic certification process: addressing a variety of factors such as soil quality, animal raising practices, and pest and weed
control. Additionally, synthetic fertilizers, sewage sludge, irradiation, and genetic engineering may not be used.
carrying this label is made entirely with organic ingredients. Again, according to the USDA website, only if something is labeled “100% organic” would that be the case. If a food is labeled “organic,” up to five percent of the ingredients in the finished product can be non-organic. If the label reads “made with organic ingredients,” only 70 percent of the item must include certified organic ingredients. And that excludes water and salt from the calculation.
Basically, USDA Organic is a legal term: part of a government program that companies or farmers must pay to join in order to use the label. On top of the cost, there is a certification process and plenty of paperwork involved. So, for large food conglomerates, participating in this ... the largest user of process is just one of the costs antibiotics is not the of doing business. For a small medical world taking family farm, the money and time care of humans, but involved can be rather the veterinary prohibitive. More on that later.
industry... focusing
From a consumer’s point of view, you might think that any product
on industrial-raised animals.
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Now, you might ask, what does “organic ingredients” actually mean? An organization called the National Organic Standards Board makes the decision on which products can be labeled organic. Seems pretty simple. Not really.
This board is made up of volunteers from different areas of the industry: farmers to retailers, scientists to environmentalists. These people are appointed by the Secretary of Agriculture for five-year terms. Already, you can sense how politics may get involved. Is everything that's labeled organic healthy to eat? Not necessarily. Many foods are highly processed and are just an organic version of another processed food. Take
a stroll through the organic cereals section of your local supermarket. You will see plenty of products that might be labeled “organic,” but in reality are still boxes of processed grains and sugar.
Are all organic foods labeled with the USDA Organic mark? Definitely not. Small organic farms with under $5,000 in gross sales are exempt from organic certification. Here in the Hudson Valley, there are many small family farms that for various reasons are not part of the certification system, yet they employ organic farming practices. These small farms are generally closer to the spirit of the organic food movement. The farmers believe in maintaining the quality of the soil, rotating crops, letting their animals graze on the land, and in many of the other ways that people farmed before the advent of the industrial food business. Their foods may not be “certified organic,” but otherwise meet the highest standards. Is organic food more expensive than conventional food? Sometimes, but not always. Each year, more and more organic food is available as an increasing number of farms are becoming certified to meet the growing despring 2018
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mand, so prices have been dropping. You do not need to shop at health food stores anymore to find organic food. It is on the shelves at most major supermarkets, warehouse clubs such as Costco and BJ’s, Trader Joe’s, and online. And when produce is in season, the price will drop. Additionally, don't presume anything is organic unless you've checked the label. Whole Foods, for example, sells both organic and conventionally grown/raised food. Now, the big question: Why is it important to eat organic food? On the animal front, whatever the animal ate, you will be eating. Any hormones and/or antibiotics given to the animal will go into your body. So, it's healthiest to eat organic poultry and eggs, meat from grass-fed animals, and wild-caught fish. Meat eaters should understand that cows are designed to eat grass, but most industrially-raised cattle are fed corn because they get fatter faster. The
westchesterseniorvoice.com
problem is that cows cannot digest corn, so they are often given antibiotics to keep them from getting sick from the corn. Those antibiotics get passed on to the people eating that beef. Similarly, dairy cows are often given growth hormones to get them to produce more milk at a younger age. And we do know that girls are entering puberty at younger and
younger ages, possibly due to the hormones they are ingesting from dairy products. Grass-fed cows, whether for beef or dairy use, are not fed antibiotics or growth hormones. Disconcertingly, the largest user of antibiotics is not the medical world taking care of humans, but rather the veterinary industry focusing on
industrial-raised animals. According to a September 2017 article in Forbes, “80 percent of all antibiotics are consumed by food animals.” Produce is a little different. You might choose to eat organic fruits and vegetables because of concern about your carbon footprint. Perhaps you're worried about chemical runoff
GRILLED WILD SALMON DIJON 1 pound wild salmon fillet, with skin 1 Tbspn Dijon mustard 2 tsp olive oil 1 tsp Tamari wheat free soy sauce (optional) 1 tsp honey or pure maple syrup Preheat grill. Place salmon skin side down on large plate or board. Mix all other ingredients in
bowl, then spread over fish. Cook, skin side down (no need to flip), for approximately 10-15 minutes Keep the cover on while grilling. Cut into fish to make sure it is done to your liking. If it is too rare, cook a little longer. Remember that the fish will continue to cook after you remove it from the grill.
If cooking in the oven: Preheat oven to 400°F. Cover bottom of broiling pan with aluminum foil. Place fish on top level of broiling pan, skin side down Bake for 10 minutes, then broil for a few minutes to brown the top. Check to make sure it is cooked to your liking. [Recipe by Daryl Moss]
For more healthy recipes, like fish tacos and fruity nutty chocolate bark, that can be made with organic ingredients, go to healthy kitchen on page 38.
CALL OR VISIT US
CAREMOUNTMEDICAL.COM/NEWPHYSICIANS
spring 2018
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into the water supply. Or you might be concerned about chemical residue in the food itself after washing and/or peeling. All are valid issues. For discussion here, the focus is on chemical residue. Some plants can naturally defend themselves from pesticides, while others absorb them. You might think that peeling the fruit or vegetable would get rid of any pesticide residue. Unfortunately, that intuitive thinking doesn't work here. Broccoli, for instance, does not get peeled before eating, yet the plant can naturally defend itself. Apples, on the other hand, a fruit that can be peeled, absorb the pesticide throughout the plant. The Environmental Working Group (www.ewg.org) rates the chemical
components of things, ranging from cleaning products to toys to foods. They post two lists: The Clean Fifteen and The Dirty Dozen, shown to the right, which get updated annually on their website: rating the chemical residue remaining after cleaning and peeling. If you'd like to pick and choose how to spend your money, the foods on the Dirty Dozen list are those you want to buy organic. The foods on the Clean Fifteen list are those that have a much lower chemical residue. We only get one body per lifetime, and one of the easiest ways to take care of it is to eat a diet based on whole foods, minimizing anything processed, and limiting our chemical exposure as much as possible. You will taste and feel the difference.
Daryl Moss, a Certified Holistic Health Coach, has been helping people feel better since she started coaching almost 10 years ago. She works one on one with most clients: in person, over the phone, or via Skype, as well as doing group programs and cooking workshops. She is also co-creator of the Synergy3 Cleanse and Wellness Program. www.missiontowellness.com; 914-468-4604 or Daryl@missiontowellness.com
Retirement,
The Dirty Dozen
The 12 fruits and vegetables with the most pesticides remaining after cleaning and peeling: strawberries spinach nectarines apples peaches pears cherries grapes celery tomatoes sweet bell peppers potatoes (source: www.ewg.org)
The Clean Fifteen
The 15 fruits and vegetables with the least amount of pesticides (don't need to be purchased organic): mango honey dew melon kiwi canteloupe grapefruit papaya pineapple sweet corn avocado cabbage onion sweet peas (frozen) asparagus eggplant cauliflower (source: www.ewg.org)
Done Right
The ease of maintenance-free living. The elegance of a Stamford-Greenwich lifestyle.
Find out what Edgehill has to offer you.
122 Palmers Hill Road • Stamford, CT 06902 EdgehillCommunity.com
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EQUAL HOUSING
OPPORTUNITY
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spring 2018
EQUAL HOUSING
OPPORTUNITY
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Edgehill complies with applicable Federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex. (Spanish) ATENCION: si habla Español, tiene a su disposicion servicios gratuitos de asistencia linguistica. Llame al 1-203-595-2400 (Portuguese) ATENÇÃO: Se fala português, encontram-se disponíveis serviços linguísticos, grátis. Ligue para 1-203-595-2400.
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Call for a private tour. Stay for a gourmet meal.
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wellness advocate
Area Experts Weigh In On
The Matter of Balance By Susie Aybar
This is a chronic feeling of being offbalance and is harder to treat because its causes are often not reversible. “Our ability to maintain balance is dependent on a lot of different systems. Our ears play a big role and our vision; our ability to see our environment is important. The sensation that we have in our legs and feet is important because it’s constantly giving us information about where we are in space,” says Dr. Budenz. “If there are problems in any of these areas, you can have problems with vertigo... or just general imbalance,” she states. Kate Walter, senior physical therapist in the outpatient department at Burke Rehabilitation Hospital, says as people age, they lose hearing and can have sight issues like macular degeneration or glaucoma, which all affect balance. “A lot of people over-rely on their vision to maintain their balance,” asserts Walter, “so the inner ear system gets underutilized. Just like a muscle, it can get weak.” re you unsteady on your feet? Have you taken a fall and simply shrugged it off? If that sounds familiar, you should read on. According to American Family Physician, balance disorders are among the most common causes of falls in older adults, often resulting in injury, disability, or even loss of independence. And data from the National Center for Health Statistics indicates that falls are the leading cause of injury-related deaths in people over the age of 65.
A
COMMON CAUSES OF BALANCE DISORDERS
Dr. Cameron Budenz, a neurotologist (an otolaryngologist specializing in ears) and
the medical director at Phelps Hospital Balance Center, says the most common balance disorder in seniors is benign paroxysmal positional vertigo. BPPV is caused when calcium crystals in the inner ear become loose and move to the wrong place in the inner ear. Causes can be agerelated or a result of prior head trauma or infection. Easily treatable, BPPV can be diagnosed and handled in the doctor’s office, or fixed in one or two sessions with a vestibular physical therapist, who is specially trained in balance issues. The second most common balance issue in older adults, attributed to the aging process, is multifactorial disequilibrium.
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Medical conditions can be an underlying cause of balance problems common with aging. Diabetes can cause peripheral neuropathy, a condition where people lose sensation in their legs and feet. Parkinson’s disease, dementia, back problems, hip/knee replacements, stroke, and high/ low blood pressure can create balance issues as well. Stress, depression, medication side effects, postural changes or trunk weakness can also affect balance. Other balance disorders that can affect any age group are: vestibular neuritis (viral infection of balance nerve in ear) or labyrinthitis (infection of the whole
spring 2018
inner ear), Meniere’s disease, or vestibular migraines.
IMPROVING BALANCE
Often, acute balance issues cannot be prevented, but there are still many ways to improve balance. Walter recommends staying active, walking 20-30 minutes up to five times a week, or riding a stationary bike. Practicing balance and strength exercise training - such as balancing on one foot, walking while bouncing a ball, and doing heel raises - can help prevent falls.
Caring for You & Those You Love, in Home & Hospital Settings
Dr. Meryle Richman, a physical therapist, therapeutic yoga instructor and senior director of physical therapy at Ivy Rehab, states, “One of the most important things that I do when I work with someone is to teach them self-awareness and to really start to get in touch with themselves. For instance, where are their feet when they are walking? It is important to know where your body is in space.” Strength training and flexibility training such as tai chi, yoga, and pool exercise should be done two times a week. Getting regular medical, vision, and hearing check ups, as well as monitoring medications for side effects, helps identify and address balance issues before the condition deteriorates irreversibly. Walter says that it is essential to make the home a safe environment to prevent falls. If you have a balance issue, make sure hallways, walkways and stairs have proper lighting and nightlights, and are free of clutter. Remove throw rugs that create tripping hazards and get rid of exposed electrical cords. According to Budenz, “A lot of people get frustrated, and understandably so, with evaluations of dizziness and imbalance because there are so many different systems at play and, frequently, it involves evaluations with several physicians.” You may need to persevere to find a diagnosis and the correct treatment, but that could well be a life-saving course of action. n n n
Susie Aybar, BSN, MFA, is a writer based in Westchester County. A published poet, Susie facilitates a “Healing Through Writing” class for people who are affected by cancer at Gilda’s Club in White Plains.
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From bathing to bandaids to backgammon this is home care. At FirstLight™ the care we provide goes beyond the basics of bathing, house cleaning and medication reminders. If you or your loved one want to listen to music or play a game of backgammon, we’re there. We care for seniors, people with disabilities, and those recovering from illness, injury or surgery. Call us to learn the many ways we can help you or someone you love.
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health & wellness
Nuclear Testing It's For the Heart Too! By A. Garvey Rene, MD, FACC
"Don’t go ‘nuclear’” might be a warning to someone who is highly stressed and overreacting to a situation, but when it comes to testing the impact of stress activity on the heart, “nuclear” may be just what the doctor ordered. That’s because use of nuclear material, radioactive isotopes that act as a “dye,” can give physicians more accurate information about size of a heart’s chambers, its efficiency in pumping blood, and the presence of any damaged heart muscle. The test also has an estimated 85 percent accuracy rate in determining whether any of a patient’s major coronary vessels, namely the arteries supplying the heart with oxygen, blood and nutrients, is significantly blocked. Sometimes called myocardial perfusion imaging, nuclear testing requires a small amount of a radiopharmaceutical like technetium-sestamibi (also called “mibi”), which is usually injected directly into the bloodstream. The radionuclide material sends out gamma ray energy that is tracked by a special camera and computer, resulting in detailed images of anatomic structure, function and distribution of blood flow to the heart while a patient is at rest and during exercise. Diseased or scarred areas of the heart and vessels will appear as cold spots, or dark areas, on the images. The exercise portion of the test is usually performed while a patient walks a treadmill with a goal of achieving at least 85% of the maximum, age-appropriate predicted heart rate, a threshold at which
the test becomes more diagnostically accurate. While exercise is a powerful prognostic tool and a great way for physicians to assess patient’s symptoms, for those who can’t exercise (i.e.; due to orthopedic problems and other co-morbidities), the dilation of blood vessels and increase in blood flow that is normally seen with exercise can also be induced chemically with medications called vasodilators (i.e.; Lexiscan, Persantine).
DO NORMAL RESULTS MEAN YOU ARE SAFE? Despite the accuracy of nuclear imaging, normal results obtained from any type of cardiac stress testing, including echo exams, which rely on ultrasound rather than on radioisotopes to create “pictures,” do not guarantee a patient is allclear. In fact, experts agree that stress tests are not a screening tool to assess a person’s risk for coronary artery disease.
WHO SHOULD BE TESTED A physician may prescribe a nuclear stress test if a patient has a history of heart problems, such as a prior heart attack or diagnosed coronary artery disease, or experiences suspected heart-disease symptoms like shortness of breath, unexplained chest pain or chest pain induced by exercise and extreme fatigue. Cardiac nuclear testing is also preferred in patients who’ve had previous coronary stents placed and in patients who’ve had coronary artery bypass surgery as it is an accurate method of determining the effectiveness of specific treatments.
The first symptom of heart disease is likely to be a heart attack or sudden death, and this can happen when a blockage has narrowed a coronary artery by only 40 percent or less. Heart attacks occur when plaque in an artery ruptures, causing a blood clot to form. Heart stress tests oftentimes fail to detect accumulations of plaque blocking less than 65 percent of a heart artery.
The nuclear testing process can be lengthy, taking between several hours to a couple of days depending on the type of examination required and kind of radionuclide used to create images. Because the test involves a small amount of radiation exposure, women who are pregnant, may be pregnant or breastfeeding should alert their physician. Certain medications, such as those to treat asthma or angina, may also interfere with test results.
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Unless a patient has certain heart risk factors or symptoms of heart disease, stress tests in general may offer no benefits. The American College of Cardiology recommends any heart testing should be a joint decision of doctor and patient, with clear understanding of the test’s purpose and goal. n n n
Dr. A. Garvey Rene, MD is a Johns Hopkins, Cornell, Columbia, and Penn trained Clinical and Interventional Cardiologist with CareMount Medical. He is board-certified in internal medicine, echocardiography, cardiovascular disease and board-eligible in interventional and nuclear cardiology. He sees patients both in Mount Kisco and in Fishkill and performs his cardiac catheterizations at Westchester Medical Center. www.caremountmedical.com/services-specialties/cardiology/
spring 2018
StepWise Now Balance Studio Opens in Briarcliff Manor
year, the striking fact is that most falls are actually preventable. Says Molly, falls are usually a result of multiple lifestyle and physical factors: from bad footwear, vision and hearing issues, rushing around and stress to dehydration, and lack of flexibility and strength.
Molly Olivia Roffman (above) wants to meet you. But, more important, you will want to meet her. That's because she's on a mission to help people continue to live independently by helping to prevent falls. Molly has seen, first-hand, the devastating consequences of falls in her work as a physical therapist. And, while one in four Americans aged 65 and older falls each
Recognizing the need for an ongoing community program that provides classes for different levels of needs, and having taught balance fitness at various locations in Westchester, Molly decided to establish a permanent home in Briarcliff Manor for her StepWise Now balance program. All of Molly's classes are intended to improve balance fitness and enable people to maintain, and even regain, their independence. The program can be transformative, with benefits from the classes including: improved stamina, strength, balance reactions, posture, flexibility, con-
fidence, cognitive focus and mood. Molly encourages anyone over 50 to come and start working on their balance skills - before they decline. The StepWise Now one-hour classes include Tai Chi for Arthritis and Fall Prevention; Tai Ji Quan: Moving for Better Balance; Line-Up (line dancing); Zumba Gold with a balance focus; and Chair Yoga. All classes are appropriately modified from their traditional form. Molly will even send you home with a 10-minute "kitchen sink workout" to practice on your own. n n n
Classes are on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays between 8am-4pm. The schedule will be expanded this year. The studio is located at 325 South Highland Ave. (Route 9) on the Ossining/Briarcliff border. For more info: Molly@stepwisenow. com or 914-292-0602; www.stepwisenow.com
Our family of care solutions helps over 12,000 adults live a full life. Today, the Hebrew Home at Riverdale has grown from an award-winning nursing home into RiverSpring Health, a new brand offering a full range of care solutions. Finding the Right Care Access to Care Care Management
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Learn more about how we can help you live forward at 800.56.SENIOR or by visiting riverspringhealth.org. winter 2017-2018
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medicaid advisor
The Medicaid Application By Colin Sandler
reated in 1965, the Medicaid program was designed to provide health coverage for low-income people. While the federal government establishes certain parameters for all states to follow, each state administers their Medicaid program differently, resulting in variations in coverage across the country.
C
In New York State, Medicaid for long-term care (nursing home care or care at home) is applied for a little differently than Medicaid as a form of health coverage (for young people). Each county in the state has
its own Medicaid office and applications are processed in the county in which you reside. Here in Westchester, longterm care applications are processed through the Medicaid office in Mt. Vernon. Outside of Westchester, your local social service office should be contacted. Applications can be mailed in. A face-to-face meeting is not required. When filing for Medicaid, you use an application called Access NY Health Care. There are also a couple of supplemental forms that must be submitted with long-term care applications.
Need help paying for home care? Know your options • Protect your assets and income
• Medicaid eligibility planning • Maximize benefits and services • Medicaid application filing • Pooled Income Trusts filing Call to see if you qualify for Financial assistance to help reduce the cost of long term care Colin Sandler,
MEDICAID
SOLUTIONS Advice for Aging
lcsw, ccm Senior Care Counselor and Medicaid Specialist
colin@medicaidsolutions.com
914.924.2566
2127 Crompond Road, Suite 100 Cortlandt Manor, NY 10567
www.medicaidsolutions.com
In addition to the Medicaid application, several documents are needed to support your eligibility. The documents most often required are listed below: 1. PROOF OF IDENTITY: Two forms of identification. Ideally, one is a picture ID and one is proof of citizenship or legal status in the U.S. 2. SOCIAL SECURITY CARD/ Medicare Card/Supplemental Insurance/Rx plan: In addition to these cards, have proof of any premiums paid. 3. VETERAN STATUS: Copies of Military Discharge Papers (i.e.; DD214) for the applicant or spouse 4. PROOF OF MARITAL STATUS: A marriage license; divorce papers if divorced; death certificate if widowed 5. RESIDENCE INFORMATION: Either a deed of owned property, tax or mortgage statement or a lease if renting 6. INCOME for the Current Year: Include current Social Security Award Letter; proof of pension 7. DEED TO BURIAL PLOT and/or Prepaid Burial Information: 8. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS: For the three consecutive months prior to application for at home care or for the prior 60 months for nursing home care 9. LIFE INSURANCE: Showing face value and cash value of all policies 10. POWER OF ATTORNEY and Any Trusts established by the applicant
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Once you file, the state has 45 days to process the application. Presuming eligibility, applications that are completed properly and accompanied by all required documents are often approved within that time frame. If that's not the case, your application will be kicked back for more information or denied. When you are approved, you then need to seek long-term home care services or nursing home placement. The home care process is a bit complicated and includes two home assessments: one from NYS Medicaid Choice and one from a Managed Long Term Care Plan (MLTC) - that ultimately determine the number of hours of care and service provision. Navigating all of these aspects of the application process is quite difficult. This can be compounded by caregiving responsibilities. With the help of a knowledgeable Medicaid specialist, the process of obtaining coverage and services can be much easier, quicker and less stressful. n n n
Colin Sandler, LCSW, CCM, is owner of Medicaid Solutions, 2127 Crompond Rd, Cortlandt Manor, NY. She has been providing advice on aging to seniors and their families for over 20 years. Email her at Colin@Medicaidsolutions. com or call 914-924-2566; www. medicaidsolutions.com To find more articles by Colin on this topic, go to WestchesterSeniorVoice.com and enter "medicaid" into the search box on the right hand side of the page.
sound advice
d e t a tre
Dangers of un Hearing Loss By Denis Murnane
re you having more difficulty hearing than you were a year ago? Or even a few months ago? You may not even realize you're missing out on conversations. And, you're probably not alone. That's because it takes over 10 years for most people to recognize and admit to a hearing loss. And a lot of damage is done during that time.
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While the brain becomes smaller with age in all of us, a 2014 study out of John Hopkins University shows a faster decline in older adults with hearing loss especially in regions involved in processing sound and speech. According to Dr. Frank Lin, the basic principle of “use it or lose it” may apply. What’s more, Lin said, these regions play a role in memory and information processing. Furthermore, hearing loss is now linked to cognitive diseases. According to several major studies, older adults with hearing loss are more likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease and dementia compared to those with normal hearing, and the risk only increases as the hearing loss progresses. Those with a mild hearing loss are nearly twice as likely to develop dementia as those with normal hearing, the risk increases threefold for those with moderate hearing loss, and fivefold for those with a severe hearing loss. Hearing loss may be an early warning sign or red flag for other health conditions including diabetes and heart disease, the leading cause of death in the United States. Poor cardiovascular health causes inadequate blood flow throughout your body, and one of the first signs of a problem is blood vessel trauma to your inner ear. This trauma, which results in damage to the fragile hearing nerves, is also more common in those with type 2 diabetes.
Hearing loss can also have a significant impact on everyday life. The National Council on Aging studied the consequences of untreated hearing loss and found an increase in sadness, frustration, embarrassment, anxiety, anger, insecurity and loss of self-confidence. Untreated hearing loss has even been shown to have a negative correlation with income to the tune of roughly $12,000 a year, depending on the degree of hearing loss. And, because hearing plays a role in balance, people with mild hearing loss are three times more likely to have a history of falling than people with normal hearing: especially disturbing since falls are the leading cause of injury-related deaths in people over the age of 65.
Whether enhancing your quality of life or helping to protect against potential catastrophic health consequences linked to unaddressed hearing loss, the case for early diagnosis and treatment is strong. It is recommended for those over the age of 50 to have your hearing tested annually. After all, better hearing really is better living. n n n
Denis Murnane BC-HIS, MBA is owner of Community Hearing Services, with offices in Carmel, Mt. Kisco, Poughkeepsie and Yonkers. He has been in practice for over 35 years and has helped thousands of people hear better. Call him at 914-361-1999 or email him: DenisM@communityhearingservices.com; www.communityhearingservices.com
YOU MAY NOT NEED A HEARING AID.
WHY NOT TEST DRIVE ONE TO MAKE SURE! Call today FOR A FREE 30-DAY RISK-FREE TEST DRIVE and to make an appointment for your FREE HEARING EVALUATION. Come in for your FREE copy of Amazon’s BestSelling Book – ”Stop Living In Isolation”
www.CommunityHearingServices.com
914-666-2252 Denis Murnane, BC-HIS Board Certified Hearing Instrument Specialist
4 convenient locations to better serve you: Carmel, Mount Kisco, Poughkeepsie, Yonkers © 2018 NuEar. All Rights Reserved. 1/18 202713087
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money matters
Do Credit Scores Matter? By Carol Schmitz
our home’s mortgage is nearly paid off, and student loans are likely to be of the long-ago past. Besides that, you have a healthy nest egg for unanticipated expenses.
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With all this, is it still important to keep an eye on your credit score? It could be. A credit score is a figure used to predict the likeliness of a person’s ability to pay his or her debts, along with the estimated amount of credit the individual should shoulder. The number is derived through an assessment of an individual’s history of debt repayment, per the person’s credit report, with the results then applied to a statistical program. The resulting figure - a person’s credit score - often is used by lenders to determine whether an applicant is liable to make full and timely payments on money borrowed. Different lenders often have their own standards for what is considered a strong score, however, 700 or higher is deemed a good score on a scale of 200 to 850. A person with a score of 649 or below may experience trouble securing credit. Being in the fair range of 650 to 699 can significantly increase one’s creditworthiness. While individual credit scores can shift over time, potentially affecting one’s credit standing, if a person no longer has any loan payments and doesn’t intend to borrow a substantial amount of money in the foreseeable future, why would that person’s credit score still matter?
Consider that according to a February 2017 survey from TransUnion, one of the nation’s three largest credit bureaus, baby boomers viewed credit as a low priority, with just 16 percent of the survey’s respondents saying that maintaining healthy credit is a top financial priority when preparing for retirement. In fact, in a 2016 survey, TransUnion found
CREDIT SCORE TIPS n Pay your bills on time. n Maintain a low credit card balance
by keeping it within 30 percent of your credit limit. n Limit your outstanding financial obligations. n Don’t close old credit cards since credit bureaus eventually remove a closed account’s history from your credit report, which could lower your credit score. n Watch your credit report, including tracking issued checks, credit card transactions, and ATM card usage. Review your monthly statements and report any possible discrepancies immediately, including those related to identity theft and credit card fraud. Source: The Better Business Bureau, www.bbb. org/sdoc/news-events/news-releases/2015/tips-tomaintain-a-healthy-credit-score/
that the same population felt their credit score was less important after age 70. But there are several reasons why a solid credit rating matters, even for people without substantial loans. westchesterseniorvoice.com
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A high credit rating can secure a person’s eligibility for prime credit cards: those with the lowest interest rate and best terms, including rewards packages, like travel and cash-back bonuses. Likewise, should a sudden need for a loan arise, having a good or better credit rating opens the way to get it at a prime rate. Another benefit of maintaining a high credit score is how it can translate into savings on insurance rates, including those for home, life and auto. And a good credit score can come in handy when you're ready to lease or buy your next car. There also are mortgage and refinance pluses to having a robust (over 700) credit score. People that uphold their credit and want to downsize their home through a mortgaged purchase of a smaller property will realize lower rates for the loan, as will those who want to stay put but refinance the remainder of their current mortgage. Remember, maintaining an ongoing credit history is key to sustaining a strong credit rating. So, charge that special meal out and put that flight to Florida on your credit card. Just be sure to make those outstanding payments on time. n
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Carol Schmitz is the Senior Vice President, Community Banking, at Tompkins Mahopac Bank, which provides a broad range of services for consumers and businesses in Westchester, Putnam and Dutchess counties, www.mahopacbank.com; www. linkedin.com/in/carol-schmitz-b8b61379/
spring 2018
calendar
daily events
MARCH 16: 8PM AN EVENING WITH THE CELEBRITY HOUSEWIVES
MARCH 6: 1PM SENIOR AFTERNOON CINEMA
The Midwife: Featuring two of French cinema’s biggest stars, this drama follows Claire, a midwife, and Béatrice (Catherine Deneuve) the estranged, freespirited mistress of Claire’s late father. When Béatrice learns her health is failing, she goes in search of Claire hoping to make amends. Jacob Burns Film Center, 364 Manville Rd., Pleasantville; 914.747.5555; burnsfilmcenter.org MARCH 7: 12:10PM CHAMBER MUSIC WITH THE PHIL
Eugene Moye on cello. Presented in association with Downtown Music at Grace. Grace Church, 33 Church St., White Plains. 914-949-0384; dtmusic.org
MARCH 16: 8PM MICHAEL CLEVELAND & FLAMEKEEPER
Grab a glass of Pinot or Chianti and hang out with Teresa Guidice, Brandi Glanville and Carole Radziwill for an intimate chat. Hosted by WFSB’s Scot Haney, the evening will include an interview followed by an audience Q&A. Ridgefield Playhouse, Ridgefield, CT. 203-438-5795; ridgefieldplayhouse.org
IBMA Fiddle Player of the Year Michael Cleveland was a child prodigy who performed at the Grand Ole Opry with Alison Krauss at the age of 13. His fire and finesse has since earned him a place as one of the most important fiddle players in bluegrass history. Emelin Theatre, 153 Library Lane, Mamaroneck. 914-698-0098; emelin.org BEFORE HEADING OUT TO AN EVENT LISTED HERE, PLEASE CONFIRM THE DATE AND TIME AS SOME EVENTS ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE AND, PARDON US, BUT THE OCCASIONAL ERROR MAY OCCUR.
MARCH 16: 8PM IRISH COMEDY TOUR
The party atmosphere of a Dublin pub and combines it with a boisterous, belly-laugh band of hooligans. Audiences love their tales about the holidays, dating a stripper and more. Paramount Theater, 1008 Brown St., Peekskill; 914-739-0039; paramounthudsonvalley.com
MARCH 17: 10AM-1PM MOUNTED FERNS
Add a touch of majesty to your home! Mount a staghorn fern with sphagnum moss onto a wooden board for a living work of art. You'll also learn how to properly care for your fern so it will thrive indoors all year long. Please bring an apron. NY Botanical Garden, Midtown Center, 20 W. 44th St.; 800-322-6924; nybg.org
MARCH 18: 4PM ACROBATS OF CHINA
In acts that often trace their origin to the harvest festivals of more than 2,000 years ago, this youthful and graceful company enthralls audiences with a range of demanding performances, most of them typifying Chinese circus and constituting a refreshing alternative to the Western tradition. From jugglers to the comic knife throwers and
The Fourth Annual Hudson Valley Regional Dementia Conference Thursday, May 17, 2018 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. DoubleTree by Hilton Tarrytown, NY Register online at AlzDementiaConference.org For information, call 914.253.6860 24-hour assistance at 800.272.3900
MEETING OF THE
MINDS DEMENTIA CONFERENCE 2018
This program is supported in part by a grant from the New York State Department of Health.
Presenting sponsor: spring 2018
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the bicyclist who finishes by piling about 10 of his colleagues aboard his vehicle. Ridgefield Playhouse, Ridgefield, CT. 203-438-5795; ridgefieldplayhouse.org MARCH 22: 3PM NATIONAL THEATRE LIVE'S JULIUS CAESAR
The William Shakespeare production broadcast live! Caesar (David Calder, The Lost City of Z) returns home in triumph and is greeted by joyous throngs. Alarmed by the autocrat’s popularity, the educated elite conspire to bring him down, civil war erupts, and all is chaos. Jacob Burns Film Center, Pleasantville; 914.747.5555; burnsfilmcenter.org MARCH 22: 7:30PM DISCOVER HIDDEN FLORENCE
Come join us and learn everything about Florence! Florence is full of rich art and architecture and there is so much to learn about this gorgeous city! Presented by Linda Sassano Higgins, a Nationally Licensed Italian Tour Guide.Westchester Italian Cultural Center, 1 Generoso Pope Pl., Tuckahoe; 914771-8700; wiccny.org
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Once. White Plains Performing Arts Center, 11 City Place, 3rd flr, White Plains. 914-328-1600; wppac.com MARCH 24: 8PM JAY AND THE AMERICANS
It's a night of American Rock and Roll! With 3 original members, Sandy Deanne, Howie Kane, Marty Sanders, and the powerhouse lead of Jay Reincke, they will perform all their hits! Ridgefield Playhouse, Ridgefield, CT. 203-438-5795; ridgefieldplayhouse.org MARCH 28: 6:30PM DEMYSTIFYING MEDICARE
This engaging, interactive program outlines the various parts of Medicare and lays out the costs associated with the medical and drug insurance provided by the government and private companies. Phelps campus, N. Broadway, Sleepy Hollow, Auditorium; 914-366-3937 or email ewoods3@ northwell.edu to register.
The Courage to Create, a program of works by Schubert and Prokofiev, featuring violinist Lisa Batiashvili. The Concert Hall- Performing Arts Center Purchase College, 735 Anderson Hill Rd., Purchase. 914251-6200; artscenter.org
A meeting between classical ballet and 1990s west coast hip hop, the dance group has been redrawing the boundaries of contemporary dance. Performing Arts Center Purchase College, 735 Anderson Hill Rd., Purchase. 914-251-6200; artscenter.org
From Annie to Phantom to Wicked, this satirical roast of over 30 Broadway hits features outrageous costumes, silly spoofs of the songs you know and madcap impressions by a stellar cast! Newer spoofs include Hamilton, Book of Mormon and
APRIL 9 CIRQUE ZIVA
APRIL 6: 8PM JB SMOOVE
Raised in Mt. Vernon, Smoove is a writer, comedian, actor who entertains with his unique brand of comedic funk. He's also known for his role on Curb Your Enthusiasm. Paramount Theater, Peekskill; 914-739-0039; paramounthudsonvalley.com One of England's most enduring contemporary singer/songwriters and live performers, Hitchcock is the closest thing the genre has to a Bob Dylan. He founded the art-rock band The Soft Boys in 1976, has recorded more than 20 albums and starred in ‘Storefront Hitchcock’ an in concert film recorded in New York. Irvington Town Hall Theater, 85 Main St., Irvington. 914-591-6602; irvingtontheater.com APRIL 8: 4PM EDWARD ARRON & JEEWON PARK
APRIL 2: 8:30-9:30AM BIRD WALK
MARCH 23: 8PM FORBIDDEN BROADWAY
cert Hall- Performing Arts Center Purchase College, 735 Anderson Hill Rd., Purchase. 914-6823707; westchesterphil.org
World-class cirque spectacular from the internationally renowned touring troop: The Golden Dragon Acrobats. From coast to coast, the spectacular athleticism and artistry of this elite group of acrobats have been receiving standing ovations from audiences of all ages. Cirque Zíva is a fastpaced, technically innovative and beautifully presented new show. Westchester Broadway Theatre, Elmsford; 914-592-2268; broadwaytheatre.com
APRIL 7: 8PM ROBYN HITCHCOCK
MARCH 31: 8PM RUBBERBANDANCE GROUP
MARCH 23: 8PM ORPHEUS CHAMBER MUSIC
terested in learning ways to decrease their risk of their disease. Burke Rehabilitation Hospital, Billings Bldg #4/ Rosedale Room, 785 Mamaroneck Ave., White Plains. 914-725-5229 or susanisworking@hotmail.com; burke.org/ community/community-calendar
See what birds call Muscoot Farm home. Hike will be led by Anne Swaim of the Saw Mill River Audubon. Dress warmly. Muscoot Farm, 51 NY-100, Katonah; 914-864-7282; muscootfarm.org APRIL 2: 7-9PM OSTEOPOROSIS AWARENESS
Provides support to individuals suffering from osteoporosis as well as information to those in-
Cellist Edward Arron and pianist Jeewon Park bring their passion, inventiveness and dazzling technique to the works of Beethoven, Piazzola, Granados and Franck. Emelin Theatre, Mamaroneck. 914-698-0098; emelin.org APRIL 8: 3PM WESTCHESTER PHILHARMONIC: ETERNAL SPRING
Edgar Meyer, Double Bass Hailed by The New Yorker as “… the most remarkable virtuoso in the relatively un-chronicled history of his instrument." Bach, Unaccompanied Cello Suite No. 1; Bottesini, Concerto No. 2; Mozart, Serenade in C minor; Meyer, Concerto in D. The Con-
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APRIL 12: 7PM BOLSHOI BALLET: GISELLE
Movie in HD: When Giselle learns her beloved Albrecht is promised to another woman, she dies of a broken heart in his arms. While Albrecht grieves, she returns from the dead as a Wili, a vengeful spirit meant to make unfaithful men dance until death.Ridgefield Playhouse, Ridgefield, CT. 203-438-5795; ridgefieldplayhouse.org APRIL 12: 7PM FILM: NUOVMONDO
Golden Door: Story of a Sicilian farmer who emigrates to America with his family. Along the way he meets Lucy, and from there his destiny will be forever changed. Discover the hopeful and tough journey across the Atlantic that many of our relatives may have endured. Movie is in Italian with English subtitles. Westchester Italian Cultural Center, Tuckahoe; 914771-8700; wiccny.org
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APRIL 14: 8PM AN EVENING WITH BEBE NEUWIRTH
From her Broadway debut in A Chorus Line to Chicago, Cheers, Frasier and now Madame Secretary, Neuwirth's career has been distinguished in theatre, television and film. In this special performance, "Stories With Piano," she and accompanist Scott Cady performed a collection of musical tales.Ridgefield Playhouse, Ridgefield, CT. 203-438-5795; ridgefieldplayhouse.org
Ask Yourself this Question...
APRIL 17: 6:30PM ADULT COOKING CLASS: ARACINI e ZABAGLIONE
What if I no longer can care for myself tomorrow?
Nothing is more fun than biting into an arancino, a rice ball stuffed with savory delights such as meat sauce, mozzarella, and peas. To top it off, we will make an easy decadent dessert, zabaglione, custard cream with fresh fruit, sure to please the most discerning dessert fanatic! You will take home the arancini you make. Westchester Italian Cultural Center, Tuckahoe; 914-771-8700; wiccny.org
Five Things You Should Know Before Considering Long-Term Care Insurance
Get your Free Guide to Long-Term Care : “Dignity For Life”
APRIL 14-15 SILVER SCREEN SPORTS FILM FESTIVAL
APRIL 15: NOON-5PM ISRAEL TURNS 70
Pay tribute to the great achievements of our Jewish homeland and will include a variety of exhibits, speakers, interactive workshops, performances, children’s activities, and great food. Schechter Upper School, 555 W. Hartsdale Avenue, Hartsdale. Westchester Jewish Council; 914-328-7001 or helene@wjcouncil.org; westchesterisraelat70.com Movie in HD: Plácido Domingo adds this rarely performed Verdi gem to the Met lineup, a heartwrenching tragedy of fatherly love. Sonya Yoncheva sings the title role opposite Piotr Beczała in the first Met performances of the opera in more than ten years. Ridgefield Playhouse, Ridgefield, CT. 203-438-5795; ridgefieldplayhouse.org
(914) 242-3250
nancy.gould@acsiapartners.com
WHO WILL CARE FOR YOUR LOVED ONES WHEN YOU CANNOT?
APRIL 19: 8PM PAUL ANKA
Sing along as this pop heartthrob swings through his classic hits - “Diana,” “You Are My Destiny,” “Lonely Boy,” “Put Your Head On My Shoulder,” “Having My Baby,” “Puppy Love" - the list goes on and on. Ridgefield Playhouse, Ridgefield, CT. 203-438-5795; ridgefieldplayhouse.org APRIL 20: 8PM DAVID BROMBERG QUINTENT
It all began with the blues. His incredible journey spans fiveand-a-half decades, and includes – but is not limited to – adventures with Bob Dylan, George Harrison, Jerry Garcia, and music and life lessons from seminal blues guitarist Reverend Gary Davis. A musician’s musician, Bromberg’s mastery of several stringed instruments (guitar, fiddle, Dobro, mandolin), and multiple styles is legendary. Emelin Theatre, Mamaroneck. 914-698-0098; emelin.org spring 2018
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A licensed home care services agency.
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Assistance with activities of daily living.
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Accompany clients on errands, appointments, outings.
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We can help at home (private residence, assisted living facility, independent living facility), hospital or nursing home.
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Private pay only, but we can also work with your Long Term Care Insurance provider.
J
APRIL 15: 2PM MET OPERA ENCORE: VERDE
Nancy Gould CLU, CLTC
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A two day celebration of the most iconic sports movies of the past five decades. Slap Shot with Paul Newman and after show Q&A with all three Hanson Brothers. Caddyshack with Bill Murray. Rocky and after show with "Uncle Paulie," Burt Young. Then the underdog tale of small and not very athletic Rudy. Major League with Corbin Bernsen after the show. Tarrytown Musical Hall; 877-840-0457; tarrytownmusichall.org
This incredible theatrical production brings phenomenal fiddling, fancy footwork and top-flight vocals to the theater in a trip through some of Country’s greatest music—songs brought to life by Patsy Cline, Hank Williams, Johnny Cash, Dolly Parton to country rockers like The Eagles, Brooks & Dunn and Garth Brooks, and including today's hits from stars like Carrie Underwood, Taylor Swift and Lady Antebellum.Westchester Broadway Theatre, Elmsford; 914-5922268; broadwaytheatre.com
Contact Nancy Gould for your FREE copy of Dignity For Life Include your name, e mail address, phone number
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APRIL 17 LIVE FROM NASHVILLE
www.crickettcare.info • info@crickettcare.com
westchesterseniorvoice.com
calendar
APRIL 21: 8PM DANCE OFF THE GRID: BESSIE
Join the Emelin and Dance/NYC for a special evening featuring the award winning, outstanding and groundbreaking creative work by three independent NYC dance artists. Emelin Theatre, Mamaroneck. 914-698-0098; emelin.org
former, artist, and writer Duke Ellington. The band performs concerts that are both uniquely American and, in the spirit of Duke, appealingly universal. The orchestra will be joined on stage by a company of dancers. Emelin Theatre, Mamaroneck. 914-698-0098; emelin.org APRIL 29: 4PM MUSIC FOR ROYAL OCCASIONS
Handel's Coronation Anthems, Haydn's Te Deum in C, and Purcell's Music for the Funeral of Queen Mary. Hitchcock Presbyterian Church, 6 Greenacres Ave., Scarsdale. 914-725-1678; newchoralsociety.org
more! 635 South Broadway, Tarrytown. 914-631-4481; lyndhurst.org MAY 5: 8PM SYMPHONY OF WESTCHESTER
All Romantic Music Program featuring Tessa Lark. Rossini – William Tell Overture, Elgar – Introduction and Allegro, Tchaikovsky - Violin Concerto, op. 35 in D Major, Tessa Lark, soloist. Iona College Christopher J. Murphy Auditorium, 715 North Ave., New Rochelle. 914-654-4926; thesymphonyofwestchester.org
MAY 2: 12:10PM CHAMBER MUSIC WITH THE PHIL
APRIL 25: 10:30AM WELLNESS FORUM
Area professionals discuss various topics on vital aging. Holistic wellness coach, memoir writing, home redesign. Scarsdale Girl Scout House, Wayside Lane, Scarsdale. For more details contact Maryellen Saenger, LMHC at Scarsdale Edgemont Family Counseling Service, 914-7233281, or msaengersfcsinc.org
Robert Chausow, violin; Roberta Cooper, cello; Eleonor Bindman, piano. Performing Mendelssohn Piano Trio No. 2. Presented in association with Downtown Music at Grace. Grace Church, White Plains. 914-949-0384; dtmusic.org
MAY 5: 8PM JESSICA LANG DANCE
Lang will present the world premiere of a brand new work, developed on the Purchase campus and set to the music of Tony Bennett. Performing Arts Center Purchase College, 735 Anderson Hill Rd., Purchase. 914-251-6200; artscenter.org MAY 8 EVERLY BROTHERS EXPERIENCE
MAY 3: 8PM THE ILLUSIONISTS
Showcases the jaw dropping talents of five of the most incredible Illusionists on earth. This non-stop show is packed with thrilling and sophisticated magic of unprecedented proportions. The Palace Theatre, 61 Atlantic St., Stamford, CT. 203-3254466. palacestamford.org
The Zmed Brothers bring a genuine and youthful Everly Brothers experience to the stage. The Zmed brothers, Zachary and Dylan, celebrate the genetic intimacy so ever present in the harmonies created by Don and Phil Everly. Westchester Broadway Theatre, Elmsford; 914592-2268; broadwaytheatre.com
APRIL 28: 8PM BIG BAND DANCE PARTY
MAY 12: 8PM DANCE OFF THE GRID: FINALE
MAY 4-6 SPRING CRAFTS AT LYNDHURST
The authentic orchestra is dedicated to the legacy of the composer, lyricist, bandleader, per-
The most spectacular spring landscape New York City has to offer is the setting for live music, games, picnicking, and more. Make a reservation for a delicious brunch with mom and enjoy all of these special activities. NY Botanical Garden, 2900 Southern Blvd., Bronx; 718817-8700; nybg.org
MAY 13: 7PM ARLO GUTHRIE
Iconic folk singer Arlo Guthrie and his children Abe and Sarah Lee perform the music of three generations of Guthries in this celebration of an iconic American music-making family. Tarrytown Musical Hall; 877-8400457; tarrytownmusichall.org MAY 15, 16 & 17 WOMEN'S HEALTH WEEK CELEBRATION
Three-part series on women’s health issues; come to any or all sessions. Topics include Integrative Healing Arts on May 15 from 6-8pm; Wise Words for Wise Women: Gynecological Challenges and Breast Care for the Older Woman on May 16 from 4-7pm; and the Latest on Skin Care on May 17 from 6-9pm. Phelps campus, N. Broadway, Sleepy Hollow, James House; 914-366-3937 or email ewoods3@ northwell.edu to register. MAY 15 DESERT HIGHWAY TRIBUTE TO THE EAGLES
Get ready to swing as Jon Faddis conducts the Purchase Jazz Orchestra and special guest artists. Performing Arts Center Purchase College, 735 Anderson Hill Rd., Purchase. 914-2516200; artscenter.org
APRIL 28: 8PM DUKE ELLINGTON CENTER BIG BAND
MAY 12-13: 10AM-6PM MOTHER'S DAY WEEKEND GARDEN PARTY
In its 33rd year! 300 artists fill the grounds of the Neo-Gothic Lyndhurst estate, offering one-of-a-kind gifts for Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, graduation and weddings during the stunning spring blossom season. Enjoy gourmet foods and concessions, hands-on craft demonstrations, tours of the Lyndhurst mansion (add'l cost) and
Join us for the exciting finale of another great season of world-class dance at the Emelin with the amazing tap of Felipe Galganni and two additional companies to be announced. Emelin Theatre, Mamaroneck. 914-698-0098; emelin.org BEFORE HEADING OUT TO AN EVENT LISTED HERE, PLEASE CONFIRM THE DATE AND TIME AS SOME EVENTS ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE AND, PARDON US, BUT THE OCCASIONAL ERROR MAY OCCUR.
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Desert Highway channels the music of the legendary band, musically and visually.Their critically acclaimed performances are a nonstop journey through numerous radio hits, top ten singles and favorite solo works of The Eagles. Westchester Broadway Theatre, Elmsford; 914-5922268; broadwaytheatre.com MAY 17: 7:30PM JAMES VAN PRAAGH
Back by popular demand, the real-life “Ghost Whisperer” James Van Praagh returns to the Playhouse! Meet and greet tickets available! Ridgefield Playhouse, Ridgefield, CT. 203-438-5795; ridgefieldplayhouse.org
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Westchester Philharmonic
MAY 17: 8AM-3PM MEETING OF THE MINDS
This full-day conference will be dedicated to people who have been diagnosed, family members, caregivers and professionals who provide support and services. It will feature breakout sessions that will benefit all attendees. Keynote Speaker: Daniel Kuhn, author of "The Art of Dementia Care." And Dr. Jessica Zwerling, with talk about comprehensive clinical updates in neurodegenertive diseases. DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel,Tarrytown, 455 South Broadway,Tarrytown. Register at: alz.org/hudsonvalley MAY 17: 7PM EVENING FILM: IO NON HO PAURA
April 8 at 3 pm
MAY 22: 6PM NATIONAL THEATRE OF LONDON: MACBETH
Movie in HD: Shakespeare’s most intense and terrifying tragedy: The ruined aftermath of a bloody civil war. Ruthlessly fighting to survive, the Macbeths are propelled towards the crown by forces of elemental darkness. Ridgefield Playhouse, Ridgefield, CT. 203-4385795; ridgefieldplayhouse.org
I’m Not Scared: A young boy finds a hole in the ground one day and discovers the secrets of a horrible crime. Movie is in Italian with English subtitles.Westchester Italian Cultural Ctr, Tuckahoe; 914-771-8700; wiccny.org
Edgar Meyer,
double bass soloist-leader
Bach: Unaccompanied Cello Suite No. 1 Bottesini: Concerto No. 2 Meyer: Concerto in D Mozart: Serenade in C minor
Tickets start at $36.
Tickets: (914) 251-6200 or westchesterphil.org
Concerts are presented at: Performing Arts Center, Purchase College 735 Anderson Hill Road, Purchase, NY. Programs, artists, dates and times subject to change. ©2018 Westchester Philharmonic, Inc.
MAY 25: 8PM THE KEB' MO' BAND
MAY 20: 1PM THE MAGIC OF BILL BLAGG
This action-packed spectacular is filled with mind-blowing magic & jaw-dropping illusions that will have you rubbing your eyes in disbelief! Over 90 minutes of incredible interactive magic! Experience the impossible! Ridgefield Playhouse, Ridgefield, CT. 203-438-5795; ridgefieldplayhouse.org
Over the past two decades, Keb’ Mo' has cultivated a reputation as a modern master of American roots and blues music through the understated excellence of his live and studio performances. He has received 11 GRAMMY nominations, in total, including Country Song of the Year for “I Hope,” co-written with The Dixie Chicks. Tarrytown Musical Hall, Tarrytown; 877-840-0457; tarrytownmusichall.org
Field Home – Holy Comforter Adult Day Care Skilled Nursing
MAY 26 7:30PM BOLSHOI BALLET: THE FLAMES OF PARIS
MAY 20: 4PM BRENTANO STRING QUARTET
Returns to the Emelin after delivering a tour-de-force concert last season with an all new program including Mozart, Webern, Schubert, Gesualdo and Beethoven. Emelin Theatre, Mamaroneck. 914-6980098; emelin.org
A Not-for-Profit Community of Caring Services
Movie in HD: In the era of the French Revolution, Jeanne and her brother Jérôme leave Marseille for Paris in support the revolutionary effort that is taking over the capital. While fighting for freedom, they both encounter love along the way. Ridgefield Playhouse, Ridgefield, CT. 203-438-5795; ridgefieldplayhouse.org spring 2018
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Short-term Rehabilitation Respite Hospice Care
The Seabury
An Assisted Living and Memory Support Residence
The Early Learning Center
On-Campus Intergenerational Child Care On the border of Yorktown and Cortlandt Manor 2300 Catherine St., Cortlandt Manor, NY 10567 914-739-2244 FIELDHOME.com
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ONGOING EVENTS
MARCH THRU MAY
MONTHLY CLASSES CHEF PETER X. KELLY TEACHING KITCHEN
Cooking classes held monthly. Some feature disease-prevention curricula like eating for heart health or recipes for a gluten-free diet, and are co-hosted by physicians from the NY-Presbyterian Medical Group Hudson Valley and Chef Emilie Berner. These classes are free while others cost $15. 1992 Crompond Rd., Cortlandt Manor. 914-734-3780; nyp.org/hudsonvalley
calendar
TUESDAYS & FRIDAYS: 8-10AM MALL WALKS
Window shop as you get and stay in shape with indoor walks. Special guest speaker first Friday each month at 9am (Food Court, Level 4). Adm. and parking free for members of mall walk program. Sign up at horse fountain near Crate & Barrel, Level 2, Tues and Fri mornings during program. Westchester Mall, White Plains. Info: 914-231-4645.
-3937 or email ewoods3@ northwell.edu to register.
TUESDAYS: 10-11:30AM KNITTING/CROCHETING
Learn the basics of knitting and/ or crocheting! Resume knitting and/or crocheting by reviewing the fundamentals! All levels welcome. Bring your own materials. Light refreshments served. Community Room A, Riverfront Branch Library, One Larkin Center, Yonkers; 914375-7965; ypl.org TUESDAYS: 11AM-1PM COLOR AT CRESTWOOD
Explore this trendy relaxation activity, come color with us! We provide the coloring pages, markers, color pencils, crayons and relaxing music. Crestwood Library, 16 Thompson St., Yonkers; 914-779-3774; ypl.org THURSDAYS: 11AM-12:30PM POETRY WORKSHOP
THIRD WEDNESDAY OF MONTH BOOK CLUB FOR MEN AND EVERYONE ELSE
March 21: Leaving Berlin; April 18: Being Mortal; May 16: Shadow Divers. New members welcome! John C. Hart Memorial Library, 1130 East Main St., Shrub Oak; 914-2455262; yorktownlibrary.org MONDAYS: 5-8PM COMPUTER CLASSES
Need help with anything computer related? Library staff will help answer your questions. English classes are held between 5 and 7pm. Spanish class is held betw 7 and 8pm. Ossining Library, 53 Croton Ave, Ossining; 914-941-2416 ext. 320 or 326; ossininglibrary.org
Beginner and experienced poets “will hold these truths to be self-evident” that all poems can be created using trial and error and serendipity along with learning the processes of craft in this poetry workshop. Thea Schiller introduces an established poem, leads a discussion and creates in-class writing exercises. Register online or call.Somers Library, Route 139 & Reis Park; 914-2325717; somerslibrary.org BEFORE HEADING OUT TO AN EVENT LISTED HERE, PLEASE CONFIRM THE DATE AND TIME AS SOME EVENTS ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE AND, PARDON US, BUT THE OCCASIONAL ERROR MAY OCCUR.
THIRD FRIDAY OF MONTH SENIOR SOCIALS
Enjoy an afternoon of art viewing and socializing. Led by an expert docent, participants stroll through the galleries, learn about the exhibition on view, then mingle with other like-minded art enthusiasts over coffee and treats. Free with adm. Katonah Museum of Art, 134 Jay Street - Route 22, Katonah; 914-232-9555; katonahmuseum.org
MARCH 7, APRIL 4, MAY 2: 2PM MIND GAMES ARE FUN
Group games and puzzles using memory skills, visual recall, focus and speed. Board Room/ C Level at Phelps campus, 701 N. Broadway, Sleepy Hollow; 914366-3937 or email ewoods3@ northwell.edu to register. MARCH 8, APR 12 & MAY 10: 8:30AM THE BREAKFAST CLUB
Free breakfasts with presentation by guest speaker and light exercise program. Covers music therapy, cardiology. Phelps Hospital, 701 N. Broadway, Sleepy Hollow, Cafeteria, G Level. 914366-3937 or email ewoods3@ northwell.edu to register. MARCH 8, APRIL 12 & MAY 10: 10:45AM OSTEOPOROSIS SUPPORT
For people with osteoporosis, providing education on nutrition, exercise, and activites of daily living.Phelps campus, N. Broadway, Sleepy Hollow, Board Room/ C level; 914-3663937 or email ewoods3@northwell.edu to register. MARCH 3-APRIL 22 THE ORCHID SHOW AND ORCHID EVENTS
Now in its 16th year, The Orchid Show will showcase thousands of dramatically displayed orchids in the Enid A. Haupt Conservatory featuring a series of installations crafted by Daniel Ost—each a living sculpture that celebrates the complex beauty of these stunning flowers. Orchid Care Demonstrations: Troubleshooting with Orchids on March 3 & 4; April 7, 8, 21, & 22; Easy Orchid Care on March 10, 11, 24, & 25; April 14 & 15; Orchid Evenings on March 17, 24, & 31; April 6, 7, 13, 14, 20, & 21; Fantastically Fragrant Orchids on March 17, 18, & 31; April 1 NY Botanical Garden, Bronx. 718-817-8700; nybg.org MARCH 5, APRIL 2, & MAY 7: 1-3PM WELL SPOUSE SUPPORT GROUP
Provides peer support and education about the challenges and unique issues facing "well" spouses. Burke Rehabilitation Hospital, Billings Bldg #4/ Room 202; 785 Mamaroneck Ave., White Plains. 914-9494936; burke.org/community/ community-calendar
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spring 2018
MARCH 9-18 PIPPIN
Its soaring score, by Wicked composer Stephen Schwartz, sparked the razzle-dazzle staging from the immortal Bob Fosse. This captivating, sharp edged satire is brought to you by Clocktower Players Adult Troupe. Irvington Town Hall Theater, 85 Main St., Irvington. 914591-6602; irvingtontheater.com MARCH 9, APRIL 12 & MAY 11: 10AM ALZHEIMER'S SUPPORT GRP
Supporting family caregivers with a loved one with Alzheimer's disease - you don't have to go it alone. Phelps campus, N. Broadway, 755 Building, Room 545, Sleepy Hollow; 914-3663937 or email ewoods3@ northwell.edu to register. MARCH 13 & 17, APR 10 & 24, MAY 8 & 22: 12 NOON HOLISTIC PAIN SUPPORT PROGRAM
For people suffering from chronic pain, providing comprehensive pain management services including exercise,
psychological support and complementary medicine practices. Phelps campus, N. Broadway, Sleepy Hollow, Family Medicine Residency Conference Room; 914-366 MARCH 14 & 18; APRIL 11 & 25; AND MAY 9 & 23: 10-11:30AM ALZHEIMER'S CAREGIVER GRP
Encourages caregivers to maintain their own personal, physical and emotional health as well as optimally care for the person with dementia. In addition, they may provide a needed break from care giving responsibilities. Burke Rehabilitation Hospital, Billings Bldg 4/ Room 204; 785 Mamaroneck Ave., White Plains. Registration required: 914-253-6861 or mamursch@alz.org
MARCH 20: 10:30AM-3PM APRIL 3 & 17: 11AM-4PM MAY 1 & 15: 11AM-4PM FARMERS MARKET
20 vendors participate, selling seasonal fresh fruits, vegetables, herbs, artisan baked goods, local grass-fed beef, selected crafts and gifts, and other items. EBT/SNAP customers are welcome and some farmers accept FMNP checks. NY-Presbyterian Hudson Valley Hospital, 1980 Crompond Rd., Cortlandt Manor; 914-7379000; nyp.org/hudsonvalley
calendar
ute classes focus across three areas: life enrichment, physical health and financial stability. Developed by the Nat'l Council on Aging, offered under the auspices of Westchester County Dept. of Senior Programs and Services Livable Communities Program in partnership with Ambassador Scarsdale. Series is free. Registration req. Held at Ambassador Scarsdale. For more info, to receive an application form, contact Marikay Capasso 914-813-6427 or mqcq@ westchestergov.com
ON THURSDAYS: 2-3PM MARCH 22 - MAY 24 THE AGING MASTERY PROGRAM (AMP)
AMP is a 10-session course designed to help older adults learn to enrich their longevity by mastering aging with other members of the community. 90-min-
cast of women, it is set in the world of high society wives in New York City during the height of the Great Depression – an immensely entertaining panorama of our modern metropolitan world from the feminine viewpoint. The author carries us through a number of varied scenes – and digging under the surface, reveals a human understanding for, and sympathy with, some of its outstanding figures. Brewster Theater Co., 28 Gleneida Ave., Carmel; brewstertheatercompany.org
THRU APRIL 1 A CHORUS LINE
Recipient of the Pulitzer Prize and nine Tony Awards including Best Musical. A celebration and true-to-life depiction of performers and their struggle to achieve greatness on the Broadway stage. Memorable numbers include "I Can Do That," "Dance: Ten; Looks: Three," "What I Did for Love", Westchester Broadway Theatre, Elmsford; 914-5922268; broadwaytheatre.com THRU APRIL 17 AARP FOUNDATION TAX-AIDE PROGRAM
Free assistance for low to middle-income taxpayers in getting their tax returns processed. Program is in 20 libraries and other sites throughout Westchester county. To find location go to: aarp.org/money/taxes/aarp_ taxaide; or call your local library.
MARCH 20, APRIL 17 & MAY 15: 10AM SENIOR STEPS HEALTH SCREENINGS
Free Health Screenings for seniors. Appt. required. Phelps Hospital, N. Broadway, 755 Building, Pulmonary Lab, Sleepy Hollow; 914-366-3937 or email ewoods3@northwell.edu for more information and to register.
she is hidden in the one place she won’t be found – a Convent! Disguised as a nun and under the suspicious watch of Mother Superior, Deloris helps her fellow sisters find their voices as she unexpectedly rediscovers her own. Featuring original music by Tony and 8-time Oscar winner Alan Menken, dazzling dance routines and songs inspired by Motown Westchester Broadway Theatre, Elmsford; 914592-2268; broadwaytheatre.com
APRIL 19-25 SHEN YUN
In ancient times, China was known as Land of the Divine. Everyone, from emperors to the common people, believed their culture was a gift from heaven. They lived in harmony with the universe and saw a connection among all things. Traditional Chinese culture carried these principles for thousands of years— until this world was lost. Visit this lost civilization. This show combines ancient legends with technological innovations, and historically authentic costumes with breathtaking animated backdrops and an enchanting orchestral sound. We let classical Chinese dance do the storytelling, and share with you beautifully diverse ethnic and folk traditions. The Performing Arts Center at Purchase College; shenyun.com MONDAYS THRU MAY 7: 1-3PM ONE HEART, ONE VOICE CHORUS
APRIL 5-22 ELEANOR ROOSEVELT HER SECRET JOURNEY
FDR has died.Truman is calling and Eleanor isn't responding. A study in the psychology of what we do after the ball is over. Schoolhouse Theater, 3 Owen Rd., North Salem; 914-2778477; schoolhousetheater.org APRIL 5-JULY 1 SISTER ACT
The story of Deloris Van Cartier, a disco diva whose life takes a surprising turn when she witnesses a murder. Under protective custody spring 2018
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The Chorus shares, celebrates and remembers the joy of singing. Each session features music, light refreshments and support for those with memory impairment and their loved ones. Wartburg Chapel, Mt. Vernon. For info: AFrey@wartburg.org or 914-513-5114 MAY 10-19 THE WOMEN
Clare Boothe Luce’s social satire ,The Women was a smash hit when first performed on Broadway in 1936 and has enjoyed several revival productions during the 1970s and 1990s. With a large
westchesterseniorvoice.com
MAY 29-JUNE 16 FLYIN' WEST
Fall, 1898: The Civil War is still a living memory, and the all-black town of Nicodemus, Kansas offers a refuge for many former slaves. At one homestead lives a family of courageous women determined to make a place for themselves. They overcome tremendous odds in a heroic effort to escape the scars of the past in this uplifting story of bravery, pride, and sisterhood. Westport Country Playhouse, Westport, CT; 203-227-4177; westportplayhouse.org YEAR ROUND VARIOUS LOCATIONS/TIMES DEMYSTIFYING MEDICARE COVERAGE WORKSHOPS
Reviews Medicare coverage, including supplemental and drug plans, Medicare Advantage and cost-saving programs. Workshops run in single sessions at the N. Salem, Harrison, Sleepy Hollow, West Harrison, Pleasantville, Pound Ridge, Irvington, Valhalla, Montrose, Yonkers, South Salem, Eastchester, Shrub Oak, Ossining, Scarsdale, and Pelham libraries, Cortlandt Town Hall and Croton Rec. To find the date and time near you, see calendar at westchesterlibraries.org/ westchester-seniors-out-speaking or contact Westchester Seniors Out Speaking at 914231-3236 or sbic@wlsmail.org. WSOS is a project of the Westchester Library System.
healthy kitchen
Fish Tacos with Lucy's Asian Slaw FISH:
1 pound of wild cod Frontier Adobo seasoning Salt to taste Lime juice Coconut Oil 1. Heat a skillet. Rinse cod and pat dry. Season generously with Adobo spice on both sides. Sprinkle with Himalayan salt. 2. Add 1 tablespoon of coconut oil to the hot skillet and sear the cod on both sides until done/flakey. (Cooking time depends on thickness of the fish.) 3. Sprinkle with lime juice and set aside.
ASIAN SLAW:
2 cups shredded red cabbage 2 cups shredded green cabbage 1 Granny Smith apple cut in slivers ½ cup chopped cilantro juice of 2 limes ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil ¼ tsp cumin 1 Tbspn of pure maple syrup sprinkle of salt 1. Combine cabbage, apple and cilantro in a bowl. 2. Whisk lime juice, olive oil, cumin, salt and syrup together and pour over cabbage salad. Note: This salad can be made in advance. The longer it sits, the better it tastes.
TACO TOPPING:
avocado, sprinkle of lime juice and salt - mashed together
TACO SHELL: Romaine or Bibb lettuce Place cooked fish in lettuce taco shell, add asian slaw and taco topping. Serves 2-3. Recipe provided by Lucy Diana, owner of Lovetoeathealthy Nutritional Counseling. Lucy specializes in Digestive Wellness and Food as Medicine principles, educating people about the importance of eating real food. Lucy can be reached at lovetoeathealthy13@gmail.com; www.lovetoeathealthy.com
Fruity, Nutty Chocolate Bark Dark chocolate is full of antioxidants, which have loads of health benefits. The higher the percentage of cacao, the better. Antioxidants can lower blood pressure and improve lipid profiles, boost brain function, and fight free radicals - helping to prevent cancer. So have your chocolate and be happy!
INGREDIENTS 8 ounces dark chocolate (70% cacao) 2/3 cup pomegranate seeds, divided in half 1/3 cup walnut pieces 1/3 cup chopped dates
1. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. 2. Heat a small sauté pan over low to medium heat. Toast walnut pieces until you can smell the aroma. Remove from heat and place in a bowl. 3. Heat a double boiler with about 1-2 inches of water on the bottom. When water boils, melt 6 ounces of the chocolate in the top pan. Stir frequently. When melted, remove from heat and stir in the other 2 ounces. Once all the chocolate is melted, stir in half of the pomegranate seeds. 4. Spread chocolate mixture on parchment paper, aiming for approximately ¼ inch thickness. Sprinkle walnuts, dates, and remaining pomegranate seeds over the chocolate. Lightly press everything down with a spatula. Refrigerate for 20 minutes. Cut into small pieces and serve! (Swap in raisins, almonds, etc. to your liking.) n
n n
Recipe provided by Daryl Moss, a Certified Holistic Health Coach. Daryl works one on one with most clients: in person, over the phone, or via Skype, as well as running group programs and cooking workshops. She is also co-creator of the Synergy3 Cleanse and Wellness Program. www.missiontowellness.com; 914-468-4604 or Daryl@missiontowellness.com
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spring 2018
part of
The Most Affordable Assisted Living in Westchester
At the Heart of Senior Living
Quality & Affordability It’s an Easy Choice!
877-309-9796
Bethel Springvale Inn spring 2018
39
Call About Our Move-in Specials 62 Springvale Rd., Croton-on-Hudson, NY 10520 bethelwell.org
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Where “Main Street” is Memory Lane. The Village at Waveny provides award-winning Assisted Living with a therapeutic approach to memory and dementia care. Just across the state line in New Canaan, Connecticut, our world-renowned indoor “Main Street” is a bustling site for meaningful interaction, fun activities and fulfilling programs for seniors. Discover more about everything we have to offer, including long-term care and short-term overnight respite stays for caregiver relief, by calling 203.594.5302 or visiting waveny.org. And, enjoy long-range confidence knowing all Village residents have priority access to Waveny’s entire non-profit continuum of care, including Waveny Care Center, our 5-star Medicare and Medicaid accredited skilled nursing facility, should personal or financial needs ever change.
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ust a stone’s throw from New Canaan’s vibrant town center, The Inn offers distinctive independent senior living that celebrates wellness, dignity and choice. And, all residents at The Inn enjoy priority access to Waveny LifeCare Network’s entire continuum of care, including personal care services through Waveny at Home, and our 5-star skilled nursing and rehabilitation facility, Waveny Care Center. Call 203.594.5450 or visit us at waveny.org to discover more about life at The Inn. Schedule lunch and a tour, and come visit us today.
73 Oenoke Ridge New Canaan • Connecticut