South Shore Senior News – April 2015
Transcription
South Shore Senior News – April 2015
South Senior Free! Shore News Helping Seniors Age Well And Enjoy Themselves While Doing It! A Way to Reduce Low Back Pain Columnist Wayne Westcott discusses research proven to reduce low back pain and the steps you can take to reduce your own low back pain in his monthly column starting on page 7. Also, find out how you can take part in a new low back pain study in Quincy. What We Choose Norwell - You don’t have to do extraordinary things to be an extraordinary person. I’ve been blessed to encounter several extraordinary people in my life and when I think of what made them extraordinary I realize it was always the simplest of things. All from different walks of life, none outstanding in commerce or business or sports, no notoriety or major achievement connected to their name. Yet extraordinary by their respective abilities to inspire from Living Mindfully Quincy - Most of us are caught up in a world that whirls with activity, often with split second decision making, and talk, talk and more talk. The older I get the less I talk, finding out long ago most people would rather talk about their thoughts than hear about mine. I’ve found too that what I think isn’t as important for others to hear as I assumed in my twenties (I was so very bright then). I listen more (listen and silent have the same letters; one must be silent to truly listen), as I contend with a hearing loss. April 2015 Matters of the Mind Be v e r ly Moor e , RN , C S I liken my struggle to keep up with the conversation at hand to that of the person with slower processing, difficulty storing and more difficulty retrieving information. Both of us have to work harder to ‘hear’ what is being said, make sense of it, and decide, or not, to respond or add to what is being discussed. Mindfully, continued on page 2 the simplest of things. A positive attitude, wisdom garnered from challenges and adversity, a giving heart, a humble presence, a welcoming smile – always. One such extraordinary woman passed away this winter. Choose, continued on page 5 Avoiding the ER By Susan Walsh Elsden Hingham - There are several reasons today to avoid going to the emergency department (ED) when possible. Exposure to hospital infections, long waits, high cost, rushed discharges, unfamiliar staff and disruption of daily activities are just a few good reasons. When in a skilled nursing facility, it may be more efficient to pursue treatment on site. With local hospitals averaging up to 100 patients waiting for inpatient beds on a daily basis, the overflow of ED patients are often treated in hallways. Avoiding the ER, turn to page 3 MINDfully Aging Conference & Expo Saturday, May 16, 2015 Plymouth Council on Aging Conference Center Attendance limited, email [email protected] to save your spot! Seminar and exhibit to unlock a new way of aging! Get the details, turn to pages 10 & 11! Living Mindfully continued from page 1 People with memory loss have difficulty holding on to information, and difficulty expressing thoughts; they have to live mindfully, that is, stay in the moment long enough to respond to it. Do we help them do this? Probably no more than most people let me. Most often they talk on, annoyed I take so long to absorb what is being said, or not taking notice at all; thus my tendency toward saying less. I wonder if that is why people with cognitive disabilities talk less and feel unnoticed. So how can we help accommodate those with dementia? Slow down your speech, enunciate, use unambiguous words, stay on one subject at a time, wait for answers, turn down or shut off background noise, use positive body language (it comprises 92% of what you communicate) and maintain eye contact. Ok, when we are in that whirlwind of life’s activities, this is hard to do. It takes conscious effort. Do you care enough to do that? To learn, practice mindful activities! Eat each mouthful of a good meal slowly, savoring the tastes (put down your fork). Look out the window at God’s wondrous creation and focus on a bird singing, the smell of spring grass, a seagull’s squawk, a child skipping, a cloud formation evolving; enjoy the moment. We don’t remember days; we remember moments. Create a positive moment for yourself at least daily. I just got back from a vacation in San Diego. It was a time to enjoy the beauty around me. I took a single kayak off a Pacific Ocean beach and slowly paddled, enjoying the swish, swish of the paddle in the water, the feeling in my arms and back. I went on a safari tour at a zoo, watched lions yawn as they slumbered a few feet away from me and let butterflies land on my arm as I enjoyed their brilliant colors. We ate outdoors by the ocean as much as possible; we did not hurry at any time. The experience calmed me. Mindfulness can center you. Try it; you’ll like it! We offer the full continuum of care through Medicare-Certified Home Health Care, Hospice, and Private Pay Services. NVNA and HOSPICE n n n n n Skilled Nursing Physical, Occupational, and Speech Therapy Nutritionist Social Work Home Health Aides HOSPICE HOME n n n n n 12-bed residence Private bed and bath 24-hour care Meals and housekeeping Pastoral setting 120 Longwater Drive Norwell, MA 02061 www.nvna.org 781.659.2342 PAT ROCHE HOSPICE HOME 86 Turkey Hill Lane Hingham, MA 02043 www.nvna.org 781.783.1627 n n Private Pay Services Home Health Aides | PCAs Homemakers 2048 Washington Street Hanover MA 02339 www.nvnaworks.org 781.871.1040 BECAUSE THERE REALLY IS NO PLACE LIKE HOME. 2 • April • 2015 ABOUT THE AUTHOR Beverly Moore is owner of StilMee, an Alzheimer caregiver service based in Quincy and serving Massachusetts and southern parts of New Hampshire and Maine. She is author of two books on Alzheimer caregiving. Matters of the Mind…and the Heart and New Trends in Alzheimer Care; Finding the Spirit Within. Both books are available on Amazon.com, Strategic Publishing Company and www.StilMee.com. Visit Beverly’s blog at www.StilMee.com. Beverly can be reached at [email protected]. Reach Your Hearing Potential If your hearing aids are over four years old, you should know that new computer chips have allowed hearing aids to work faster and smarter in different environments. Nobody hears everything they want, but you could get the most out of your hearing with newer technology. Let us help you reach your hearing potential and reconnect with your surroundings! CALL to schedule your free hearing test and consultation, and ask about our current specials! (617) 770-3395 NVNA WORKS n “We don’t remember days; we remember moments. Create a positive moment for yourself at least daily.” Tobias Hearing Aids, Inc. 382 Quincy Ave, Quincy 02169 near Roche Bros and Walmart. Where Eddieʼs Diner was! Stephen P. Tobias B.C. HIS MA Lic #59 B.S. Science UMass 1978 Financing available through Wells Fargo Avoiding the ER continued from page 1 The hospitals must prioritize emergency situations accordingly and this means increasingly delayed care to non-emergencies and further risk of exposure to hospitalacquired infections and communicable disease. The good news is that many treatments formerly only given in the ED can be given in a skilled nursing facility. Illnesses such as pneumonia and urinary tract infections used to be common reasons to seek emergency care. Today, these and other illnesses can be assessed, monitored and treated in the skilled nursing facility. Physicians and nurse practitioners are present daily and are also available by phone 24 hours a day. Crucial blood tests and x-rays can be performed and interpreted within an eight hour window. New medications can be ordered and administered within the same or better timeframe. Cardiac tests such as EKG and Holter monitoring can be done on site. Wound care, surgical drain management, IV therapy and venous ultrasound are other examples of sub-acute care now delivered in the nursing home environment. Many patients who are in a skilled nursing facility for short-term or long-term care often insist on going to the emergency room when they undergo a change in their health. However, advances in healthcare delivery in the skilled nursing facility can help individuals avoid the stressors of going to the ED. The Primary Nursing Care model used at some skilled nursing and rehabilitation centers allows for the same nurses and nursing assistants to care for the same patients on a daily basis. This consistency enables the healthcare team to assess even slight changes in condition and intervene immediately. Continual communication with families, the patient’s primary care physician and community agencies also ensures continuity of care. Physical, occupational, and speech therapy can be provided up to seven days a week to maximize level of function. 508-584-1561 TTY: 508-587-0280 Fax: 508-897-0031 [email protected] www.oldcolonyelderservices.org About The Author Susan Walsh Elsden RN, is the clinical liaison for the Starr Health Care Group which includes Queen Anne Nursing Home in Hingham and Southwood at Norwell Nursing Center. Susan is also a yoga instructor for Open Doors Yoga. The primary nursing care model used at Queen Anne allows for the same nurses and nursing assistants to care for the same patients on a daily basis. For more information, visit www.queenannenh.com or call (781) 749 – 4982. Discharge planning, individualized treatment plans, and family team Thank you for voting us # 1...again! meetings occur on a routine basis. These interventions can help ensure a 20 School St. West, Braintree, MA 02184 safe and smooth (Off Washington Street) transition back to the Tel: 781-843-2133 community setting. When a loved one is Come See What We Can Do For You! in a skilled nursing facility, whether it Visit us online: www.kingoptical.net be for short term or long term care, know their treatment th options are vast. Communication with the All caregivers are invited to attend this free day healthcare team of education and insights! is vital. Avoiding unnecessary • Learn how to better communicate with a person who has dementia and the truth about brain drain and aging. OCES is your resource for information, advice and solutions about aging and disability issues. 144 Main Street Brockton, MA 02301 hospital visits may decrease stress and allow for a quicker recovery and transition back to the community. King Optical Co, Inc. 10 Annual Educational Conference & Caregiver Day • The day’s programming will also include a screening of the movie “Alive Inside” which demonstrates the positive power of music for those with dementia. April 29, 2015 8:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. Linden Ponds 203 Linden Ponds Way, Derby Clubhouse, Hingham Respite care services are available on the day of the event for caregivers. Contact Kathy Ward at (508) 584 - 1561 or email her at [email protected] Our Premier Sponsors Visit us on the web at www.southshoresenior.com • 3 Take Advantage of the ED Solutions Available To You By Greg Porell Senior News Staff Men’s Health Month is coming up in June. What better time to discuss erectile dysfunction (ED)! ED use to be attributed to aging and was seen as a natural nonthreatening condition. However, recent studies show that ED may be a red flag for future health problems. “Erections are an overall statement on the health of a man,” said Natalya Lopushnyan, Doctor of Urology with Greater Boston Urology located in North Easton. “If you have bad vascular health, you won’t get a good erection. If a person has diabetes, it can impact the nerves and reduce the erection quality.” Erections are a reflection of the overall health of a man, so the better you take care of yourself, the better your erections will be, according to Dr. Lopushnyan. You can prevent ED from getting worse by watching what you eat and keeping your weight down. It has been shown that people with weight issues are at a higher risk for ED problems. Dr. Lopushnyan stresses the importance of exercise, noting that men who are obese have less testosterone, which can be turned into estrogen by too much body fat. ED Solutions “Most patients believe if you have ED, you can only take Viagra or Cialis, and for some these oral solutions do not work,” said Dr. Lopushnyan. “ED is a very common Ad for Senior Paper.pdf 2/10/15 AM problemWO for men 40 - 701 years of9:21age. A large group of men have a problem. Fifteen percent of men at age of 70 have a complete failure to get erection. These oral solutions may eventually lose effectiveness. If a person is 60, obese and has poorly controlled diabetes, these Viagra like solutions will eventually stop working.” include a vacuum erection device which is placed over the penis, drawing blood to the penis, resulting in an erection. Another option is Urethral Suppository which is placing a pellet inside the urethra. It is similar to an injection, as it is more local, but a small pill must be inserted in the penis. To determine the problem and come up with a solution, a man can start the discussion with his primary care doctor. After a health check, a doctor commonly prescribes PDE 5 Natalya Lopushnyan solutions. PDE 5 inhibitors are a drug to block the break down in blood vessels in the penis responsible for an erection. The result is a greater blood flow and better erection. Penile Prosthesis is a surgery option that can be completed in a one to two hour operation. The surgery places two cylinders into the penis. A small pump inflates the cylinders. The cylinders are then deflated after intercourse. “Before Viagra, herbal supplements were used, said Dr. Lopushnyan. “But the efficiency of herbal supplements is not very high and none of them are approved. Another alternative has been an injection.” “A penile injection is self-administered right before intercourse,” explained Dr. Lopushnyan. “Injections use a similar substance as the oral agents, but it is administered directly into the penis. It acts faster and perhaps more effectively.” The injection works better for men with poorly controlled diabetes or other nerve damage. Other options THINKING OF MOVING? DOWNSIZING? C M Y CM MY CY CMY K Use a Real Estate Professional you can Trust! PROFESSIONAL KNOWLEDGEABLE ACCOUNTABLE CONFIDENTIAL As a Registered Nurse I’m trained to make sure Your Best Interest is my #1 Priority! Let me work with you to create a customized marketing plan to sell your home quickly and profitably! Call Wendy at: 781-267-0400 for a FREE consultation! 4 • April • 2015 Wendy Oleksiak, Licensed R.E. Agent Weichert Realtors-The Chase Team 146 Front Street, Scituate, MA 02066 email: [email protected] • fax: 781-545-6939 (781) 421-3123 “It’s not scary,” said Dr. Lopushnyan. “I have had a lot of patients that are very satisfied with the solution, happy they don’t have to double guess if the pill is going to work. The orgasm is the same, as it is a different set of nerves.” On Line Resource Information on ED solutions is available at EDcure.org. The web site was developed by American Medical Systems which manufactures implants, as a way for potential patients to learn more about the implants and procedures. It was also designed to help educate and guide patients to a physician in their area that specializes in ED, including prosthetic urologists. About The Author Natalya Lopushnyan is a Doctor of Urology with Greater Boston Urology located in North Easton. She is a graduate of Yale Medical School. You may reach her at (508) 238-0800. What We Choose continued on page 1 She had just celebrated her 96th birthday and was proud to boast of her good fortune, which she saw as living a long and full life. She was a little bit of a thing, barely five feet if that, but larger than life with her enthusiasm, and yes, her smile. At her 90th birthday, I had asked her and her “kid” sister who was in her 80s, what their secret was for longevity. They both grinned broadly at me and in unison said, “smiling.” You have to smile every day, they told me. Now, I knew the history of the younger sister who had endured many challenges and tragic losses. And my friend herself, had had her own share of loss and health issues. But “smiling” was what they chose to focus on nonetheless. And that’s what made both of them extraordinary in my book. At her 90th birthday, I had for whatever reason, more than others. asked her and her “kid” And with the natural progression of aging, we must endure losses of all types: loved sister who was in her 80s, ones, friends, abilities, skills, jobs, lifestyles. what their secret was longevity. They both Much in life is beyond our control, but oneis thefor Here proof of your ads that will appear. Please review carefully. thing we can control is how we choose to deal grinned broadly at me and with it all. My little 96 year-old friend chose smiles, enthusiasm, and engagement. You in unison said, “smiling.” never saw her without receiving a big hug 1/12 BUSINESS CARD and smile, hearing about the day’s political situation, a sports update, some bragging Not all of us Council have that innateQuincy positive 06-5157-0009 R Quincy on Aging, about her children and grandsons, and spirit; some of us have to work harder at always, always, questions about you, your seeing the glass as half full. But every one life, and the welfare of your family. of us can wake up in the morning and start the day with a smile. Sure, there’s lots in The last time I saw her, days before she died, the world Adultnot Dayto Health smileCenter about: turn on the Homelike Setting • Medically Supervised • Transportation she entertained me with stories about her television, pick up the newspaper, listen to Home Health Services early days working in shops and businesses 3ULYDWH'XW\&HUWLÀHG+RPH+HDOWK$LGHV&RPSDQLRQV51·V/31·V the radio – we hear lots of negative news. &DOOIRUD)5((LQKRPHDVVHVVPHQWE\D5HJLVWHUHG1XUVH before and after she married her husband 781-340-7811 • www.careprohealth.com and while he was away in the service. But, we can choose to turn the channel, read something pleasant, listen to music, She was alive with those memories and or, smile in spite of the negativity. We can then just as quickly shifted to ask me how choose to reach out to our neighbors, our I was doing, 1/2 howCALENDAR friends, our family and ask about their were my brothers days, their lives, what makes them happy. 06-5067-0010 W 1/2 Calendar Braintree Department of E and their kids doing. The operative word here is “choose.” 1/2 Calendar Hingham Council on Aging It wasn’t just 06-5104-0006 polite What S we choose may just make our lives 06-5138-0006 O 1/2 Calendar Milton Council on Aging, Mi conversation 06-5205-0009 – it extraordinary. R 1/2 Calendar Weymouth Council on Agin was real. You knew when she asked you Specializing in: ABOUT THE AUTHOR questions, she cared about your answers. Joan Wright, CDP, is a certified dementia practiShort-term rehabilitation in a leads VNA and Hospice’s She was interested. tioner who Adult DayNorwell Health Center homelike setting. Homelike Setting • Medically Supervised • Transportation Specialty Team and facilitates a numShe was engaged. Alzheimer’s Home Health Services • 24-Hour Skilled And she never3ULYDWH'XW\&HUWLÀHG+RPH+HDOWK$LGHV&RPSDQLRQV51·V/31·V let ber of caregiver support groups. For more informa&DOOIRUD)5((LQKRPHDVVHVVPHQWE\D5HJLVWHUHG1XUVH tion on NVNA and Hospice and its programs, call her challenges stop Nursing Care 781-340-7811 • www.careprohealth.com (781) 659-2342 or visit nvna.org. her from being so. • Respite Care The operative word here is “chose.” We are all dealt challenges throughout life; some John Adams HealthCare Center • Hospice Care For more information call: Deb Ring Director of Admissions (617) 479 - 0837 “Care Is Our Business” 211 Franklin Street, Quincy, MA 02169 CarePro Health Services ® &DOOIRUD)5((LQKRPH E\D5HJLVWHUHG1 781-340-781 www.careprohea Adult Day Health Center • Homelike Setting • Medically Supervised • Tra Adult Day Health Center Home Health Services3ULYDWH'XW\&HUWLÀHG+RPH+HDOWK$LGHV&RPSDQLRQV Homelike Setting • Medically Supervised • Transportation Home Health Services Private Duty Certified Home Health Aids • Companions RN’s • LPN’s Call for FREE in-home assessment by a Registered Nurse 781-340-7811 www.careprohealth.com Visit us on the web at www.southshoresenior.com • 5 Notes From The Editor’s Desk Trending Tougher credit standards are being implemented on prospective reverse mortgage applicants starting this month. A new set of extensive “financial assessment” tests will make applying for a reverse mortgage tougher, much like applying for a standard home mortgage, according to an article by Kenneth R. Harney in the Boston Herald. Reverse mortgages have traditionally been fairly easy for seniors 62 years of age and above to qualify for, with the Federal Housing Authority (FHA) in charge of most of the programs. During the recession, many borrowers ran into financial trouble and fell into default because they didn’t pay required property taxes and hazard insurance premiums. And as home values plunged, it created more problems for borrowers. Starting late this month, new applicants will need to demonstrate an ability and willingness to meet their obligations. This will include a history of paid real estate taxes, homeowner association fees and other property related charges on time for the past 24 months. Failure to meet these new standards may require borrowers to create a “set aside” which would be a reserve account or escrow account wholly or in part from their loan proceeds. These set asides may be so high that the reverse mortgage may not be a viable alternative for home owners. The bottom line is that the new rules may make it harder for seniors to qualify. But the upside may be a reduction in the number of reverse mortgages that end up in default. South Shore Senior News all time female singers: Rhianna (she can do pretty much anything with a powerful voice); Kate Pierson and Cindy Wilson (B52’s – best female voices of the 80’s); Diana Ross (hard to believe she’s not number one); Donna Summer (what can you say but, wow!); Stevie Nicks (another number one). Do you have a name to add to our list, email us at [email protected] and we will run them next month. Health Care News President OBama recently signed the Medicare Access and CHIP Reauthorization Act which is designed to fix payments to doctors providing Medicare funded services. The previous version of the law left doctors in a precarious situation, susceptible to “sudden, arbitrarily payment cut offs.” The Reauthorization Act fixes the threat to doctor payments, while encouraging payments based on quality of care, and not the number of tests that are provided or the number of procedures according to the President’s comments made when he signed the Act. The Act also expands the Children’s Health Insurance Program. South Shore’s Preferred Nursing & Short Term Rehabilitation Center 50 Recreation Park Drive Hingham, MA 02043 TEL: (781) 749-4982 FAX: (781) 740-4283 directory of services Telephone: (508) 212-4862 Web Address: www.southshoresenior.com www.facebook.com/SouthShoreSeniorNews Email: [email protected] Address: P. O. Box 658, Norfolk, MA 02056 VOLUME 12 Issue 4 trolled circulation. Senior Information Monthly, Inc., publisher of South Shore Senior News, assumes no responsibility for errors, but will reprint in a subsequent edition corrections to that portion of an advertisement or article in which an error occurs. All advertisements are run at the discretion of the publisher. Reproduction of the contents Serving the communities south of Boston in of South Shore Senior News is prohibover 31 cities and towns. Published monthly ited, without the permission of the Publisher. and available to over 100,000 seniors via con- Reprints are available. All editorial and adverPublisher: Greg Porell 6 • April • 2015 tisements within this newspaper are provided for general information only and should not be treated as a substitute for the medical advice of your doctor or other health professionals or licensed legal or financial advisors. Senior Information Monthly, Inc. is not liable for the contents of any external Internet sites listed, nor does it endorse any product or service mentioned or advised on any of the sites. Always consult your doctor if you are in any way concerned about your health. Se n ior F itn e ss Senior Fitness Addressing Low Back Pain By Wayne Westcott Quincy - Over the past half-century, four out of five American adults have experienced at least one undesirable episode of low back pain. Although we might expect to see an improvement in the percentage of people who suffer from low back discomfort, the trend is actually in the opposite direction. According to a recent national newscast, approximately 90 percent of Americans will encounter low back problems during their lifetime. their lumbar spine muscles they experience less discomfort and improved physical function. We have conducted a few studies on reducing muscle discomfort, including two that specifically addressed the lower back. One study was performed at one of the world’s largest automotive plants in the Midwest, and the other study was performed at Quincy College. In the auto workers study, the all-male participants performed three Nautilus resistance exercises that addressed the lower back and midsection muscles. These were Although there are many causes of low the low back machine for the lumbar spine back pain, weak lumbar spine muscles are muscles; the abdominal machine for the clearly a major contributing factor. Several front midsection muscles; and the rotary research studies have demonstrated that torso machine for the side midsection when low back pain patients strengthen muscles. After several weeks of training (two or three exercise ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS sessions each week), the assessments Way n e We s t c ott revealed increased low back and midsection muscle strength, improved trunk flexibility, and reduced low back pain. In our Quincy College study, the male and female participants performed the same three Nautilus resistance exercises for the lower back and midsection muscles, as well as additional exercises for the upper body and leg muscles. Each exercise provided a moderate resistance (approximately 75 percent of maximum weight load), and was performed for a single set of 8 to 12 repetitions, using a controlled movement speed (about six seconds per repetition) and a full movement range (pain free range only). The relatively brief but comprehensive strength training sessions were typically completed within 35 minutes, two or three days each week. Low Back Pain, continued on page 9 Personal and Compassionate Care Walk Urgent Care 7 Days / Week NewinPatient LineAvailable (781) 952-1303 541 Main Street, Suite 414, S. Weymouth Specialty (781) 952Care: - 1433 Other Specialty Primary Care: Services include: Family Practice Cardiology Specialty Care Internal Medicine Primary Care 28 Riverside Drive 1681 Washington Street Cardiology Braintree, MA 02184 (781)Main 848-6040 541 Street, Suite 400 New Driftway, Suite MA 101 02190 S.56Weymouth, Scituate, MA 02066 (781) 952 - 1240 (781) 545-7243 541 Main Street, Suite 400 Endocrinology South Weymouth, MA 02190 Neurology Pulmonology Pembroke, MA 02359 • Aesthetic Skin Center 541 Main Street, Suite 400 Internal Medicine (781) 826-8065 South Weymouth, Neurology Consultants at MA 02190 56 New Driftway, Suite 101 (781) 952-1240 Harbor Medical Associates Scituate, MA 02066 Endocrinology (781) 545-724390 Libbey Parkway, Suite 102 541 Main Street, Suite 210 541 Main Street,Weymouth, Suite 301 South Weymouth, MA 02190 MA 02189 South Weymouth, MA 02190 (781) 952-1280 (781) 952-1480(781) 335 - 3900 56 New •Driftway, Suite 101 Cardiac Testing Scituate,• MA 02066 Physician Diagnostics (781) 545Imaging - 7243 541 Main Street, Suite 400 • Physician Diagnostics (781)Main 952-1280 541 Street, Suite 210 MA 02190 GastroenterologyS. Weymouth, Laboratory 1690 Main Street, #4 Main Street, Suite 402 ACCEPTING NEW 1681 Washington Street PATIENTS S.1221 Weymouth, MA 02190 South Weymouth,Pulmonology MA 02190 (781) 952 - 1280 South Weymouth, MA 02190 Braintree, MA 02184 • Physician Diagnostics 781-337-8688 (781) 340-1702 (781) 952 - 1280 541 Main Street, (781) Suite848-6040 314 Sleep Center 795 Bridge Street MA 02190 Family Practice Weymouth,S. MAWeymouth, 02191 Hematology/Oncology Gastroenterology North • Urgent Care Center 781-337-4105 (781) 952 - 1460 Dana Farber/Brigham Personal and Compassionate Care 175 North Franklin Street 1681 Washington Street and Women’s Cancer Center Holbrook, MA 02343 • Wellness & Education Braintree, MA 02184 Urgent Care in Clinical Affiliation with (781) 767 0910 South Shore Hospital (781) 848 - 6040 541 Main Street, 101 Suite 414Street Columbian South Weymouth, MA 02190 28 Riverside Drive S. Weymouth, MA 02190 General / Vascular Surgery (781) 952 - 1433 (781) 624-4800 Pembroke, MA 02359 Specialty Other Specialty Primary Care:Street ★ Accepting Most Major InsurancesCare: ★ 1681 Washington (781) 826 - 8065 Services include: Family Practice Cardiology Braintree, MA 02184 Other Specialty Internal Medicine 28 Riverside Drive 56 New Driftway, Suite 101 1681 Washington Street Pulmonology (617) 296 - 0242 MA 02359 Services include: Aesthetic Skin Center VisitPembroke, us at www.harbormedical.com Braintree, MA 02184 541 Main Street, Suite 400 Scituate,•MA 02066 (781) 826-8065 (781) 335 - 4815 (781) 848-6040 South Weymouth, MA 02190 • Cardiac Testing • Cardiac Testing (781) 545 7243 56 New Driftway, Suite 101 (781) 952-1240 New Patient Line (781) 952-1303 56 New Driftway, Suite 101 Hematology Scituate, MA 02066 Scituate, MA 02066 / Oncology Endocrinology 541 Main• Street, PhysicianSuite Diagnostics • Physician Diagnostics 301 (781) 545-7243 Dana Farber / Brigham and (781) 545-7243 541 Main Street, Suite 210 Imaging Imaging 541 Main Street, Suite 301 South Weymouth, MA 02190 S. Weymouth, MA 02190 541 Main Street, Suite 400 Center Women’s Cancer South Weymouth, MA 02190 (781) 952-1280 South Weymouth, MA 02190 (781) 952 - 1480 Diagnostics • Physician Diagnostics • Physician in(781) Clinical Affiliation with (781) 952-1480 952-1280 Gastroenterology Laboratory Laboratory 1690 Main Street, #4 South Shore Hospital 1221 Main Street, Suite 402 795 Bridge Street 1681 Washington Street South Weymouth, MA 02190 SouthColumbian Weymouth, MA 02190 Braintree, MA 02184 101 Street • Physician Diagnostics • Physician N. Weymouth, MA Diagnostics 02191 781-337-8688 (781) 340-1702 S. Weymouth, MA 02190 795 Bridge StreetSleep Center (781) 848-6040 (781) 337 Sleep - 4105Center North Weymouth, MA 02191 Hematology/Oncology (781) 624 - 4800 • Wellness & Education • Urgent Care Center 781-337-4105 Dana Farber/Brigham Dana Farber Community Cancer Care and Women’s Cancer Center • Wellness & Education in Clinical Affiliation with 51 Performance Drive South Shore Hospital Suite 101 101 Columbian Street South Weymouth, MA 02190 Weymouth, MA 02189 (781) 624-4800 (781) 337 - 9091 New Patient Line (781) 952 - 1303 ★ Accepting Most Major Insurances ★ Visit us at www.harbormedical.com • Accepting Most Major Insurances • ARE YOU CARING FOR A LOVED ONE WITH MEMORY LOSS Right at Home ® In Home Care & Assistance Let our highly trained, professional caregivers keep your loved one safe at home and provide you with peace of mind. Serving seniors throughout the South Shore (781) 681-3545 www.rightathome.net/southshore Visit us on the web at www.southshoresenior.com • 7 Examining the Dementia - Hearing Loss Link By Janice Powis Quincy - Want to keep memory working well into old age? It may be worth paying attention to your hearing. Recent studies show that hearing loss may contribute to dementia and other memoryrelated disorders. Frank Lin, MD and colleagues at John Hopkins University followed 1,984 Janice Powis individuals between the ages of 36 and 90-years of age. None of the participants had cognitive impairment as measured on standardized tests at the beginning of the study, while some of them did have hearing loss. The participants were followed over an 18-year period. The effects of age, medical risk factors, diabetes, and hypertension were controlled in the study design. According to the U.S. National Institute on Aging, almost one-third of Americans aged 65-74 have at least a mild hearing loss, as do nearly half of those aged 75 and older. Of these individuals, only one in three uses hearing aids. The results of this prospective study indicate that hearing loss increases the risk of cognitive decline in older adults, with the rate of cognitive decline associated with the degree of hearing loss. Hearing loss is one of the most common health conditions in older adults and one of the most widely untreated. If impaired hearing is in fact a contributor to mental decline and dementia, as Dr. Lin has said, then treating it could have a big impact on public health. What Is the Connection? Though a connection between hearing loss and cognitive orange decline PMS has been 158 observed in this study andReflex numerous Blue others, it is still unclear as to exactly why this is the case. One theory is that hearing loss often leads to some degree of social isolation, a known risk factor for dementia. O ME C So the “million dollar question:” “If we treat hearing loss, how much difference “Cognitive load” may will it make? I can tell you in a few also contribute; those years when we complete this trial,” with hearing loss have said Dr. Lin. He and his colleagues at to strain their brains to Johns Hopkins University have recently decode sounds. This launched a five-year study following 800 strain may play a role older adults. They will measure cognitive in the development of decline between two groups: one with the benefit of state-of-the-art hearing Additionally, The dementia. white outline around devices and the other simply getting Dr. Lin says, “There are clarity. Partners is heavier for better plausible reasons for “wellness advice.” why hearing loss might lead to dementia—the “If we look at risk factors for cognitive brain’s hearing centers decline that are modifiable, and hearing loss are very close to the is one of them, that could be tremendously same 50% RE H What Can You Do? A Results of the study indicated that individuals with hearing loss have a greater incidence regions where Alzheimer’s first starts.” In other words, hearing loss and dementia may have a common pathological pathway to the brain. It is theorized that one is coupled with the other. of dementia. Specifically, Dr. Lin and his colleagues found that participants with hearing loss at the beginning of this longitudinal study had a 40% chance of a greater cognitive decline compared to those who had normal hearing at the beginning of the study. Thus, according to the researchers, even a mild hearing loss affects thinking ability. Partners same 75% ● Free In-Home Assessment ● Highly Competitive Rates ● Live-in or Hourly Private Care ● Agency Bonded & Insured Joint Commission accredited 32400 781.545.1370 • 309 Driftway | Scituate, MA 02066 • LCCA.COM 8 • April • 2015 JD Miller Partners Private Duty In-Home Care Services on the South Shore O RE Compassionate care in a homelike environment: short- and longterm rehabilitation, skilled nursing, respite care and Medicare and Medicaid certified. Home Care Partners, LLC A RE H A LivePartners vibrantly. ME C H O ME C HCP logo design #4B colors2 “ask us about Veteran’s financial assistance” www.homecarepartnersma.com 7/8/05 sspetersen (781) 378 - 2164 Senior Fitness exciting” said Dr. Lin. “Hearing loss is really common, and theoretically the treatments we have are no risk. That makes it very exciting as a public health target.” Treating hearing loss more aggressively may help stave off cognitive decline and dementia. If you suspect that you might have a hearing loss, the first step is to get your hearing checked. A baseline audiogram is recommended starting at the age of 55 years old, in addition to an annual screening thereafter. If hearing loss is confirmed, consider management and treatment options including hearing aids, listening devices and auditory rehabilitation. Hearing treatment options can have a positive impact on quality of life by reducing “cognitive load” (less straining to understand speech) and improving communication may also reduce social isolation, both contributing factors for dementia. About The Author Dr. Janice Powis, AuD, CCC-A, FAAA, is an audiologist and owner of Quincy Hearing Aid. She will be presenting on Hearing and the Link to Mental Health on May 6th from 5 - 7 p.m. at The Atria Marina Place in Quincy. If you would like to attend, please RSVP to Randy.Veraguas@ AtriaSeniorLiving. For more information about Dr. Powis and Quincy Hearing, call (617) 9348155 or visit www.quincyhearing.com. Low Back Pain, continued from page 7 After 10 weeks of training the study results showed impressive improvements in both low back muscle strength and low back discomfort/fatigue. Research consistently indicates that there is an inverse relationship between low back muscle strength and low back muscle pain. That is, strengthening the low back muscles appears to be an effective means of reducing low back pain. It is therefore likely that strong low back muscles may likewise reduce the risk of experiencing low back problems. This summer, we are conducting a more comprehensive study on low back pain/ discomfort. One of our research groups will use an FDA approved electrical stimulation unit for the lower back muscles in their homes. Se n ior F itn e ss Way n e We s t c ott If you would like to learn more about our low back pain reduction research program, please plan to attend our information session on Thursday, June 4th, 5:30 PM, at Quincy College. Our orientation meeting will be held in Room 019, President’s Place, which is located at 1250 Hancock Street in Quincy. There is no charge or commitment required to attend the orientation meeting, but please contact me at (617) 984 - 1716 for seating purposes. About The Author Wayne L. Westcott, Ph.D., teaches exercise science at Quincy College and consults for the South Shore YMCA. He has authored 26 books on physical fitness and strength training. Another research group will perform nine specific resistance machine exercises, similar to those used in our previous studies, at our Quincy College fitness facility. A third research group will do both electrical stimulation at home and strength training at the college. WE’RE MOVING George Weir “The Moving Coach” Over 50 years serving the South Shore! (339) 788 - 9699 [email protected] www.weirmoving.com Visit us on the web at www.southshoresenior.com • 9 Mindfully Aging Seminar New ways to age well, and enjoy yourself while doing it! Enjoy a day with like-minded people and discover a new way to look at aging. The Mindfully Aging 2015 Seminar will introduce an approach to everyday living that can transform frustration and uncertainty into joy, happiness and increased success, living the life you want. Women and men will benefit by attending, learning ways to be aware and awake to the present moment and open and accepting of the good things in their lives. Take advantage of this day of learning and sharing, using it as a jump off point to a new way to age well and enjoy yourself while doing it! Opening Presentations • • • • • • • 8:30 a.m. 9:00 a.m. 9:10 a.m. 10:00 a.m. 11:00 a.m. 11:30 a.m. 12:15 - 1:00 p.m. Registration & Healthy Breakfast Bites Welcome & Overview of Day’s Events Introduction to Mindfully Aging A Mindful Menu: Eat Well to Age Well Nutrition & Coffee Break Unlock With Yoga: Breathing & Relaxation A Mindful Approach to Generational Relationships The Psychology of Aging • 1:00 - 2:30 p.m. 2:30 - 3:00 p.m. All Welcome! There Are Space Limitations Save Your Spot Today The Myths and Realities of Aging Meet the Speakers • Free Admission! Chat with and ask questions of the speakers. email us at [email protected] Saturday, May 16, 2015 Plymouth Council on Aging Conference Center • 44 Nook Road • Plymouth, MA This great day is supported by these great sponsors! South Shore’s Preferred Nursing & Short Term Rehabilitation Centers The Starr HealthGroup Facilities 50 Recreation Drive, Hingham, MA Tel: (781) 749 - 4982 • www.queenannenh.com 10 • April • 2015 501 Cordwainer Drive, Norwell, MA Tel: (781) 982 - 7450 • www.southwoodatnorwell.com Schedule of The Day • 8:30 a.m. Registration Healthy Breakfast Bites & Beverages • 9:00 a.m. Welcome & Overview of Day’s Events • 9:10 a.m. Introduction to Mindfully Aging Introduction to the a “mindful” way of living, what it is, how to practice it, and how you willbenefit. Greg Porell, Publisher, South Shore Senior News Geronimo Sands, Artistic Director, Priscilla Beach Theatre • 10:00 a.m. A Mindful Menu: Eat Well to Age Well • 11:00 a.m. Nutrition & Coffee Break • 11:30 a.m. Unlock With Yoga: Breathing & Relaxation Thebenefitsofbreathingandrelaxationareknown‘cures’toeverydaydifficultsitu- ations. Participate in this interactive demonstration of yoga, breathing techniques and howtheycombinetobreakstressandleadtoarelaxedstateofbeing. Kelly Clark, RD, South Shore Visiting Nurse Association Nutrition is an important part of feeling well and helps power positive thinking. Susan Walsh, Community Liaison, Queen Anne Nursing Home • 12:15 p.m. A Mindful Approach to Generational Relationships Conni DiLego, Director, Plymouth Council on Aging Learn how to navigate the relationship between grandparent, adult children and grand children in a way that allows all to live their best life possible The Psychology of Aging • 1:00 p.m. The Myths and Realities of Aging William Stenz, Director, The American Yoga Foundation, Bovina Center, NY Aging can be different than you’ve been led to believe! This discussion can help you integrate a mindful approach to break the aging stereotypes. Meet the Speakers • 2:30 - 3:00 p.m. Chat with and ask the speakers all of your questions! This great day is supported by these great sponsors! Visit us on the web at www.southshoresenior.com • 11 Spring Into A Stress Free Retirement By Delia De Mello April has arrived, and spring is here! As we say “goodbye” to winter weather hardships and “hello” to gardens budding with vibrant color, we welcome the season by celebrating Stress Awareness Month. Did you know that stress, also called the “silent killer,” could cause heart disease and high blood pressure? Recognizing the sources of stress is the best way to understand how you can start eliminating factors in your life that put unnecessary strain on your body and mind. Social Security wants to make your retirement planning as stress-free as possible, which is why we have a number of online tools available for you. You can create your own secure, personal my Social Security account from the comfort of your living room and avoid unpleasant traffic and a possible long wait in one of our field offices. Once you have a my Social Security account, you can view your Social Security Statement, verify your Soci a l Se curi t y Up d a te earnings record, and find out what to expect in monthly benefits if you retire at ages 62, 67, or 70. Once you begin receiving Social Security benefits, you can use my Social Security to check your benefit information, change your address and phone number, change your electronic payment method, and obtain an instant benefit verification letter and replacement SSA-1099/1042S. Delia De Mello When you decide it’s time to start receiving your retirement benefits, the application process is far less stressful now that you’re prepared. You can securely apply online without picking up the phone or leaving your house. Simply go to www.socialsecurity.gov/ applyonline, and, in as little as 15 minutes, you can breeze through our online application. You can easily sign up for my Social Security at www.socialsecurity.gov/myaccount. If you’re thinking about retiring at an age not shown on your Statement, reduce the stress of the unknown by using our Retirement Estimator. The Retirement Estimator allows you to calculate your potential future Social Security benefits by changing variables such as retirement dates and future earnings. You may discover that you’d rather wait another year or two before you retire to earn a higher benefit. Or, you might see that this is the season for you to kiss that work stress goodbye and retire now. To get personalized estimates of your future benefits, go to www.socialsecurity.gov/ estimator. Our website and online tools are always available. You can enjoy Social Security’s stress-free retirement planning tools any time of the year, giving you more time to enjoy these warmer months. Doesn’t that put a spring in your step? ABOUT THE AUTHOR Delia M. De Mello, metropolitan public affairs specialist, has been with the Social Security Administration since 1986. For information, call (800) 772-1213 or visit www.socialsecurity.gov. CareWell Premiere Adult Day Health Program Monday - Friday 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. • Saturday 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. NEW state-of-the-art facility is conveniently located off Rte. 3 in Norwell’s Assinippi Park. Specialized Health Care • Professional staff with certified Alzheimer’s care training • Individualized health care plans • Therapeutic recreation • Medication management expertise Family Supports • Education forums that promote health and well being • Social programs that provide support and promote friendships Facility • • • • Convenient hours Respectful, secure and nurturing environment Beautiful outdoor garden patio Door-to-door transportation Caregiver Respite Program • Saturday Care 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. • Elder Care at Night 8 p.m. - 8 a.m. • On-Site Resources • Podiatrist • Massage Therapy • OT, PT, & Speech • Dental Hygienist Therapy • Hairdresser Taking Enrollments Now! Call Ron at (339) 788 - 9635 [email protected] for more information www.carewelladultday.com 141 Longwater Drive, Suite 104, Norwell, MA Compassion • Caring • Respect • Love • Kindness 12 • April • 2015 Empathy • Patience • Acceptance • Laughter • Flexibility Adult Day Wellness Center Dry Mouth Adds to Senior Oral Health Woes By Joe D’Eramo South Weymouth - There’s a perception that drooling becomes more common in your later years. From a dentist’s point of view, that’s actually a good thing as excessive saliva washes away food particles and Dr. Richard Wolfert bacteria and neutralizes acids that can lead to increased plaque accumulation, which causes cavities and gum disease. Truth be told, a much greater issue for seniors is dry mouth and how that relates to the oral health. For most seniors, dry mouth is caused by medications for treatment of any number of issues. Those can include anti-anxiety agents, antidepressants, antihistamines, antipsychotics, diuretics, Parkinson’s disease medications and urinary incontinence agents. “Another real issue with dry mouth is it makes the teeth less absorptive to minerals like calcium and fluoride that strengthen teeth,” said Dr. Richard Wolfert, DMD, a South Weymouth dentist. “Consequently, you have weaker teeth that are more vulnerable to plaque and that leads to cavities and worse.” Dr. Wolfert says there are many things patients can do to alleviate dry mouth. Dry Mouth, continued on page 15 Help Us Learn More About Sleep! If you are: • 55 - 70 years old • Non smoker • Healthy and taking no medication You may be eligible for a 37-day sleep research study at Brigham & Women’s Hospital. There will be a 4-6 week screening period. Must be willing to spend 37 day consecutive days and nights in our facility. Receive up to $7,775 Call 617-525-8719 or email [email protected] We Connect You With Local Resources Check the company or companies you would like to have send you free, no obligation information. Your request will not be used to contact you for any other reason. Mail your completed form to us at: South Shore Senior News, P.O. Box 658, Norfolk, MA 02056. Adult Day Health Centers ___ CarePro Health Services ___ CareWell Adult Day Wellness Center Independent and Assisted Living ___ Compass on the Bay ___ Standish Village Alzheimer’s Coaching Services ___ StilMee - The Leader in Alzheimer’s Coaching Legal Services ___ Patricia Bloom-McDonald, Attorney at Law Home Care Services ___ Bayada Nurses ___ CarePro Health Services ___ Home Care Partners ___ Homewatch CareGivers ___ HopeHealth ___ North River Home Care ___ Norwell Visiting Nurse Association ___ Right At Home ___ South Shore Visiting Nurse Association ___ Senior Helpers Hospice ___ Hospice of the South Shore ___ Norwell VNA & Hospice Hospitals ___ Harbor Medical Associates ___ South Shore Hospital Local Elder Service Agencies ___ Hessco Elder Services ___ Old Colony Elder Services ___ South Shore Elder Services Medical Services ___ King Optical Company ___ South Shore Hearing Center ___ Stephen Tobias Hearing Center ___ Suburban Hearing Aid Services Memory Impaired Assisted Living ___ Compass on the Bay ___ Standish Village Relocation Services ___ Weir Moving ___ Pope Rehabilitation & Nursing Center Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation ___ John Adams HealthCare Center ___ Life Care Center of the South Shore ___ Queen Anne Nursing Home ___ Pope Nursing Home ___ Southwood at Norwell Nursing Center ___ The HarborView Center for Nursing & Rehabilitation April 2015 Please mail my free, no obligation information to: Name:______________________ Address:_____________________ City:_________________________ State: _________ ZIP:_________________________ Tel (optional): _________________ Email (optional)________________ Visit us on the web at www.southshoresenior.com • 13 A Way to Determine How Well Your Lungs Are Working Weymouth – If you have been experiencing a shortness of breath, wheezing, a chronic cough, have a history of smoking or another lung health concern, it may make sense to have a Pulmonary Function Test. The test helps determine how well your lungs are working and helps your health care provider determine if a lung disease may be present. A Pulmonary Function Test takes approximately 30 - 45 minutes to perform and is covered by a large number of health plans as a diagnostic procedure for someone with a pulmonary diagnosis or a long term history of smoking. A physician order is needed for this testing so a patient would need to discuss this with their Primary Care Physician. Harbor Medical Pulmonology services have been available to South Shore residents for more than 10 years, providing local testing services at its Weymouth offices. Richard Ashburn, MD Pulmonologist is the Division The Harbor Medical Pulmonology services team includes (left to right) Suzanne Sullivan, Administrative Team Lead; Jennifer Vitti, RRT, PAC; Karen Cassidy, RRT; Katie Kelleher, CMA and Maureen O’Kelly, RN. Chief of the Department and has been serving the South Shore community for over 25 years. The group recently welcomed Jennifer Vitti, RRT, PA-C to the position of Physician Assistant for the Pulmonary Suite which is located at 541 Main Street in South Weymouth. She recently worked at the Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston in the Lung Transplantation department and also worked at Massachusetts General Hospital in the pediatric Cardiac Surgery ASK AN AUDIOLOGIST David Citron, III Ph.D. F-AAA Question: Dr. Citron, how long do hearing aids last? Answer: That is an excellent question. Hearing aids typically last about five years. Over time, exposure to humidity, perspiration, earwax, as well as rain, hairspray, and dust can cause the tiny parts to wear out. Special hearing aid dehumidifiers are available that help to remove moisture from older aids and can Dr. David Citron prolong their life. Additionally, regular hearing aid cleanings are really important. Our practice includes “Premium Care” with all hearing aids we dispense. This includes free batteries, cleaning and check-up visits for the life of the hearing aids to be certain they are providing maximum benefit. In many cases, hearing loss tends to worsen over time. While hearing aids can be re-programmed to accommodate changes in hearing, after five years, many people choose to purchase new aids to benefit from advancements in hearing aid technology. Ask about our Premium Care Plan Stetson Medical Center 541 Main Street, Suite 418 South Weymouth, MA 02190 781 - 337 - 6860 PAID ADVERTISEMENT 14 • April • 2015 www.sshc.com department. Jennifer holds a Bachelor of Science from Northeastern and went on to receive her Physician Assistant certificate from Stanford University Medical Center. For more information on the Pulmonary Function Test or the services available at the Harbor Medical Weymouth offices, you may call (781) 952- 1460 or visit www.harbormedical.com. Compassion. Excellence. Reliability. BAYADA provides: • Nursingcarefordiseasemanagement • Assistivecare,suchasbathinganddressing • Highlyqualifiednurses,therapists,medical socialworkers,andhomehealthaides BayadaNursesisnowBAYADAHomeHealthCare. Nursing and therapy 617-472-1333 | Assistive care 617-773-0012 www.bayada.com THE HARBORVIEW C E N T E R F O R N U R S I N G A N D R E H A B I L I TAT I O N Enhancing Lives Through Compassionate Care Your welcome to visit our 62 bed homelike setting nestled on Turkey Hill - Cohasset. • 24-hour Skilled Nursing • Respite Care • Freedom Through Functionality • Short & Long Term Rehab Nautilus Gym 1 Chief Justice Cushing Highway, Cohasset, MA 02025 (781) 383 - 9060 Dry Mouth 23rd Annual continued from page 13 That can include drinking more water (fluoridated tap water is the best), using over-the-counter saliva substitutes or moisturizer, chewing sugarless gum or sucking on sugarless mints. Seniors can also make some external adjustments to their living environment, like using a humidifier at night while they sleep. “When it comes to dry mouth, what you don’t do is probably more important,” said Wolfert. He recommends avoiding tobacco products, sugary drinks, caffeine and alcohol (that includes mouthwashes and rinses with alcohol) and spicy and salty foods. “It’s always a concern with more elderly patients that they will stop taking a medication if it makes them feel worse,” said Wolfert. “If you feel like you have dry mouth, it’s critical to ask your primary care doctor about it so that perhaps they can alter the medication. Of course, the key ingredient to dental health is brushing and flossing and regular checkups with your dentist.” About The Author Joe D’Eramo is a freelance writer living in Plymouth. Dr. Wolfert’s practice is located at 1121 Main Street in South Weymouth. For more information, you may visit Dr. Wolfert’s web site at www.toothboss.com or call (781) 335 - 0604 to schedule a consultation. Friends Trips / 2015 Motor Coach Transportation for All Trips Leaving from Whipple Senior Center, 182 Green Street, N. Weymouth, 02191 (Departure Times To Be announced) ► “New London Barn Playhouse, New London, NH:” Featuring the play “GYPSY” Wed. June 17, 2015, $99.00 per person. Trip includes: Deluxe Yankee Coach transportation, Bus driver gratuity, and luncheon at The Common Man Restaurant, Concord, NH. Meal choice: Apple,walnut stuffed chicken breast or Baked Schrod, Caesar salad, roasted potatoes, vegetables, dessert, coffee / tea. Note: bus departs at 9:30 am. Please put meal choice on payment check. ► “Myrtle Beach, South Carolina:” Aug. 30 - September 4, 2015; $825.00 per person double occupancy, $100.00 deposit per person due upon reservation & balance due on or before July 18th. Tour includes: first class hotel accommodations for five nights; overnight in the Baltimore MD area the first and last nights; three nights ocean view accommodations at The Dayton House Resort, Myrtle Beach,SC (an oceanfront property within walking distance to The Boardwalk & area attractions), baggage handling -1 bag per person & driver gratuities, 5 breakfasts and 3 dinners while in Myrtle Beach, admission & reserved seating to 3 shows;Hot Jersey Nights, “One” The Show, & Legends In Concert, locally guided sightseeing tour of Myrtle Beach & the Grand Strand area, time for shopping & browsing the popular Broadway at the Beach (350 acres of shops ,entertainment, nightlife),time to enjoy the amenities at the Resort & the sugar white sandy beach!!! Bus departs at 8 am with coffee/muffins on board. Reservation Will Then Be Confirmed Upon Payment Checks Payable to: FCOA Mail To FCOA, P.O. Box 890221, East Weymouth, MA 02189 Please Call to Reserve Your Space / Contact Sandy at (781) 337 – 5756 FREE EVENT for Senior & Caregivers Giveaways, Raffles, Refreshments 40 Exhibiting Companies & Door Prizes Given Away Every Hour! Tuesday, May 19, 2015 ~ 9:30 - 2:00 Shaw’s Center • 1 Lexington Ave., Brockton, MA 02301 Stay Healthy with Free Screenings • Vascular Screening* • Cholesterol • Blood Pressure • Body Fat *Members of the Signature Healthcare Vascular team will be providing a series of vascular screenings. These include ultrasound of the carotid arteries, Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD) evaluation and an ultrasound of the abdominal aorta (AAA). Enjoy Live Entertainment 9:30 - 2:00 DJ Joe Martini - Remember When 11:00-11:30 Zumba Gold Fitness Demo Lori Hunter and her group will show you just how fun and easy this international dance exercise can be. 12:00 - 1:00 Vic and Sticks Songs for Seniors show is a “trip down musical memory lane”! As they blend old familiar tunes with some new original songs with a punch line, a fun time is sure to be had by all! 1:30 - 2:00 Exhibitor Raffle Winners Announced….but you must be present to win! Attend Informative Seminars 10:30 a.m. Are You Using the Right Skin Care Products? Would you like to learn more about which over the counter products are right for you? Come join Jody Dube, PA from Signature Healthcare’s Dermatology Department as she reviews proper skin care tips for you. 11:30 a.m. Are You Experiencing Knee or Hip Pain? Join us and come learn about Joint Care from Dr. Richard Mulroy, a Harvard Medical Faculty Physician and Chief of Orthopaedics at Signature Healthcare. Dr. Mulroy will discuss some of the most common causes of joint pain as well as explain various treatment options available to help get you back in motion. Marquee Sponsor: Contributing Sponsors: Reservations Not Required. For additional information callAmerican Health Resources, Inc. at 508-588-7700 Visit us on the web at www.southshoresenior.com • 15 Hearing Aids! You Get What You Pay For! “If it sounds too good to be true, it is too good to be true!” Be careful what you read. y can be enlarged or reduced by your local a at the bottom of the ads (the newspaper The Skinny on Eating Fats: Is it OK? By Diana DiGiorgi HEARING. Brockton - Yes, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) says it’s fine to eat some fats. But it’s recommended that you try to reduce your intake of solid fats, and instead use liquid oils, such as olive oil and canola oil, where possible. CLEAR hearing aids offer High Definition Clarity to help you enjoy a pleasant and more natural listening experience. The sound quality and speech enhancement is so extraordinary, you Now have to hear it to believe it. echnology and benefits. Other benefits include: • Automatically adjusts to help you hear Although fats generally have a bad reputation, your body actually needs some fats---for energy, for healthy organs, skin and hair. Fats also help your body absorb vitamins A, D, E and K. Fats also provide you with essential fatty acids, which your body can’t make on its own. FINALLY, A PRESCRIPTION FOR BETTER nd in noise and ded to provide a relaxing sound background for adults (21 years and older) iet. It may be used as a sound therapy tool in a tinnitus treatment program re professional (audiologists, hearing aid specialists, otolaryngologists) who and understand better. • Ultimate listening comfort in quiet and noise. • Wireless Technology. With 32 years of experience and owner of my own office, I can offer you: Dispenser Name ss and Phone Number • Significant savings on the purchase of new, state-of-the-art digital hearing aids. • Hearing aid services and repairs on ALL MAKES! • First floor handicap accessibility. • Provider for: all State GIC plans, Blue Care 65, & various Unions who offer hearing aid benefits. • Fed BC/BS, Carpenter’s Union provider. Gary R. Rachins, BC-IIIS Licensed & Board Certified Hearing Instrument Specialist - Lic # 53 H E A R I N G A I D S E RV I C E S The F d to provide a relaxing sound background for adults (21 ackground in quiet. It may be used as a sound therapy escribed by a licensed hearing healthcare professional logists) who is trained in tinnitus management. uture of Hearin g Aid Technology is H ere! But certain fats can create problems. Fat contains more than twice as many calories as protein or carbohydrates. Eating too many high-fat foods will add excess calories—which leads to weight gain—and excess weight increases your risk of Type 2 diabetes, heart disease and other health problems. Not all fats are created equal. Some fats are healthier than others. Whenever possible, use products with polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats. “Better fats” include vegetable oils that are plant-based, such as soybean, corn, canola, olive, safflower and sunflower oils. Oils are just fats that are liquid at room temperature, like the vegetable oils used in cooking. You can also find polyunsaturated fat in nuts, seeds and fish. Walnuts, flaxseed and salmon are examples of foods with polyunsaturated fat. The target is to limit total fats to no more than 35% of your daily calories. For instance, if you eat and drink 2,000 calories daily, no more than 700 of your calories should be from fats. 197 Rockland Street • Hanover Located next to CVS at Rt 139 & 53 (781) 826-4711 • 1-800-357-7712 DAM96/0911 www.suburbanhearingaid.com EVERYDAY BATTERY SPECIAL 99 Pack of Six Batteries 2 $ 8 Fax: 718-482-1884 (in office) Zinc Air Sizes: 312A, 13A, 10A (Limit 4 packs per visit / One coupon use every 6 months) Expires 4/30/15 100% DIGITAL HEARING AID SPECIAL $ 30000 OFF PER AID Ask about FREE batteries for the life of your hearing aid! Expires 4/30/15 Exceeding Expectations in Healthcare 501 Cordwainer Drive, Norwell, MA 02061 TEL: 781.982.7450 • FAX: 781.982.7451 16 • April • 2015 As for “bad fats,” you should limit the amount of saturated fats and Trans fats you consume. Both of these fats can put you at greater risk for heart disease. You can read the “Nutrition Facts” label on most packaged food to see the amount and types of fat contained in a single serving. The Nutrition Label also will list the number of calories from fat in a serving of packaged foods. For example, a quarter cup serving of whole almonds contains 15 grams of fat, including 1 gram of saturated fat. On the Nutrition Label is a “% of Daily Value” column, which is based on a 2,000 calorie per day diet. This diet recommends a daily intake of less than 65 grams of fat, of which less than 20 grams should be from saturated fat. The label says one-quarter cup of almonds has 1 gram of saturated fat, which is 5% of the 20 grams of saturated fat recommended daily. One tablespoon of olive oil has 2 grams of saturated fat, twice the saturated fat found in one tablespoon of canola oil. One cup of whole milk has 5 grams of saturated fat. The Food & Drug Administration is currently updating the Nutrition Facts label. The “calories from fat” listing will no longer be found on the label. “We know that the type of Diana DiGiorgi fat is more important than the total amount of fat,” an FDA spokesman said. “Total, saturated and trans fat will still be required.” For people with cardiovascular issues, foods lower in saturated fats, Trans fats, cholesterol and sodium are best. Saturated fats are found in red meat, milk products including butter, and palm and coconut oils. Common sources of saturated fat in meals include regular cheese, pizza, grain-based desserts like cookies, cakes, and donuts, and dairy desserts, such as ice cream. Guidelines suggest consuming less than 10% of calories from saturated fats. It’s best to eat a mix of nutrient-dense foods every day. Nutrient-dense foods are foods that have a lot of nutrients but relatively few calories. Choose foods that contain vitamins, minerals, complex carbohydrates, lean protein, and healthy fats. At the same time, try to avoid “empty calories” -- foods and drinks that are high in calories but provide few or no nutrients. Whatever your age, you can start making positive lifestyle changes today. Eating well can help you stay healthy and independent -- and look and feel good -- in the years to come. For more tips about healthy eating as you get older, go to the NIH SeniorHealth website: https://nihseniorhealth.gov. About the Author Diana DiGiorgi is the Executive Director of Old Colony Elder Services (OCES). OCES serves 20 towns in Plymouth County as well as Avon, Easton and Stoughton. OCES offers a number of programs to serve seniors, individuals with disabilities, their families and caregivers. For information call (508) 584-1561 or visit www.oldcolonyelderservices.org. Open House & Health Care Proxy Drive Hanson - Make this spring the season you create a Health Care Proxy! This important yet often overlooked document designates a person of your choosing to assist you in making health care decisions in the event that you are no longer able. Waiting until it is too late often results in expensive legal fees and other concerns. Meet with Advanced Directive Consultants and draw up your own Health Care Proxy free of charge on Thursday, May 21st at All American Assisted Living in Hanson, from 4 – 6 p.m. Enjoy a tour, free raffles and refreshments while you take care of this important advanced directive. Event is sponsored by All American Assisted Living, Webster Park Rehabilitation and Health Center and Hospice Services of America. Please RSVP to (781) 447 - 4100 or email [email protected]. Let our family care for yours. When you need assistance with a senior family member, adult or child, we are committed to providing compassionate home care through an experienced, caring staff. Affordable Care Solutions: Transportation Comprehensive Personal Care Specialized Dementia Care Meal Prep and Medication Reminders Companionship / Homemaking Serving all of the South Shore • 781-331-5400 homewatchcaregivers.com Visit us on the web at www.southshoresenior.com • 17 South Shore Community Calendar Things to do, Places to go 5th Annual Marshfield COA Health Fair: Raffles, health screenings, a free box lunch and a number of interesting workshops will all be part of the 5th Annual Marshfield COA health fair set for May 12th at the Marshield COA located at 230 Webster Street. The fair runs 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Fifty local senior care and service vendors will be in the exhibit area during the fair. Transportation is available. Call (781) 834 - 5581 for more information. Chanticleers In Hull: The Chanti- cleers is a group of retired men which meets each Wednesday at the Red Parrot Restaurant in Hull. Buffet breakfast, camaraderie and guest speakers at each meeting. Gather at 8:15 a.m., breakfast served at 8:30 a.m. and presentation at 9 a.m. All are welcome. Weekly Senior Dance: South Shore Widow/Widowers & Associates. Every Tuesday 7:30 -11:00 p.m. (doors open at 6:30 p.m.). Viking Club, 410 Quincy Ave., Braintree, just over the Quincy line, across from Fore River Shipyard. Tickets $10 per person at the door. Membership is $10 per year. This fee will be waived for two (2) weeks. If you enjoy the dance, you may then pay this annual fee of $10. Dance fee includes raffle. A bar is available. Call Jerry Walker at (781) 335-3171 ext. 82. All are welcome. Monthly Senior Dance: Join the Friends of the Norwood Seniors at their monthly dance, held the third Friday of every month from 7 - 10:30 p.m. at the Norwood Senior Center, 275 Prospect Street in Norwood. Tickets are $10/person at the door which includes refreshments and a raffle. Call Anne with any questions at (781) 762 - 5625. Ward 4 Social Group in Quincy: Area residents are invited to join fellow seniors for a few hours of fun, socializing and entertainment. New members are welcome to join the group which meets every Wednesday at the Ward 4 Community Center, 100 Brooks Ave. in Quincy from 1 - 4 p.m. If you would like to learn more about the group and its activities, contact Reno Litterio at [email protected]. Together in Harmony: Men who have enjoyed four part harmony, male acapella or quartet singing are welcome to join the fun and help keep America singing on the third Thursday of each month at the Riddell Road Community Building in East Bridgewater. No attendance or dues requirements and refreshments are always available! No rehearsals for competitions, just for fun. Begins at 7:30 p.m. Call Bob (508) 378 - 3553. Walk To Wellness: The Home Care Division of South Shore Hospital sponsors a Walk to Wellness program at the Hanover Mall (Hanover) and South Shore Plaza (Braintree) seven days a week before shoppers arrive (8 - 10 a.m. Monday through Saturday and 10 a.m. to 12 noon Sundays). All are welcome. No fee and registration forms are available at the Mall’s Public Safety Center (Hanover) and Guest Services Desk (Braintree). Sponsors recommend that all walkers consult their doctor before starting. Call Kelly at (781) 624 - 7423. Active Older Adults: Weekly meetings Thursdays at 12 noon. Speakers, light exercise/stretching, luncheons (bring your own) and at local restaurants. Live Y’ers is a club for those 55 years plus, meeting at the South Shore YMCA in Hanover. Non-members welcome. Call (781) 829-8585 ext, 368. Support Groups Raising .Grandparent’s Grandchildren: Groups for grandpar- ents raising grandchildren. Open to all. Information, resources and group support. The Plymouth Council on Aging host a meeting at the Plymouth COA every Thursday from 10 - 11:30 am. Contact Conni at (508) 8304230. In Weymouth, the Dept. of Children and Families hosts a Monday evening support group from 7 - 8:30 p.m. Contact Colleen at (781) 682-0850. Is Someone Hurting You: The South Shore Women’s Resource Center’s Older Women’s Program provides domestic violence services for women 55 years of age and older. Emergency safe home; 24/7 toll free support line (888) 746 - 2664; counseling; advocacy; information; referrals. Free and confidential. Call (508) 746 - 2664. Information Seminars MINDfully Aging 2015: The 1st Annual MINDfully Aging Conference & Expo will be held Saturday, May 16th at the Plymouth Council on Aging Conference Center from 9 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. Discover new ways to look at aging to improve your daily life and discover the products and services available to help. Email [email protected] for information. All welcome. Got News? Email it to [email protected] or mail to South Shore Senior News, P.O. Box 658, Norfolk, MA, 02056 Your Choice for Home Care on the South Shore 781. 878.0300 18 • April • 2015 • • Experienced, caring CNAs, CHHAs & Homemakers • Automated Aide attendance tracker • RN supervision Family owned & operated Local News Quincy Professional Wins Lifestyle Change Award Boston - Paul Grizey was recently honored by the American Heart Association (AHA) and the CardioVascular Center at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC) as part of the organizations’ Second Annual Lifestyle Change Awards presented on National Walking Day earlier this month. Grizey won the Boston Walker of the Year Award in a highly competitive contest that drew nominations from throughout the area. Grizey, a studio production lead at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts in Quincy, realized that changing his lifestyle was a matter of life and death. The 57-yearold lost his mother and three siblings to heart disease and other conditions before the age of 60, and he was determined to “break the curse” through healthy eating and vigorous walking. He is committed to a regular walking routine and has lost 80 pounds. Grizey also inspires others by leading the walking program he helped create at work. According to BIDMC, these days, Americans are spending more time at work and sitting in front of screens than ever before. We’re becoming less active, which can increase our Paul Grizey (center), receives the 2015 Boston risk of heart disease, stroke and Walker of the Year Award presented by Dr. Kaother diseases. mal Khabba; Chief, Cardiac Surgery, CardioFor more information about Vascular Institute at BIDMC (left) and Dr. Loryn walking and living a healthy Feinberg; Cardiologist and Medical Director of lifestyle visit: www.heart.org/ the CardioVascular Institute’s Women’s Carphysicalactivity. diovascular Health Program. Through the Eyes of Sharon Photographers Sharon - The Sharon Adult Center Photography Club members are happy to announce their 7th Annual Exhibit at the Lakeside Gallery in the Sharon Adult Center. An opening reception will be held on Wednesday evening, May 6th, from 7 - 9 p.m. and the show will continue through the summer months. This year club members will include their photographs that are particularly meaningful to them. If you miss the reception, Lakeside Gallery hours are Monday - Wednesday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Thursday, 9 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.; Friday, 9 a.m. to noon; including additional evenings arranged by appointment. The Gallery is located on the Lower Level of the Sharon Community Center, 219 Massapoag Ave. in Sharon. For more information call (781) 784 - 8000 or email [email protected]. Special Community Program for Veterans Former Ledger Reporter To Discuss Williams Book Cohasset - Former Patriot Ledger sports writer and Red Sox fan, Dick Trust, has compiled a rich archive of personal photos and memories of the legendary Red Sox player Ted Williams in his book “Ted Williams and Friends 1960-2002.” Mr. Trust will give a talk on his book at the Paul Pratt Memorial Library, 35 Ripley Road, Cohasset on Saturday, May 16th from 2 – 3 p.m. A book signing will follow his talk. Books will be available for purchase. For more information call the library at (781) 383 - 1348. Hyannis – HopeHealth announced it will host a special program for veterans on May 11th at the Plymouth Council on Aging. Caring for Veterans Experiencing the Impact of Serious Illness is based on the principles of the We Honor Veterans (WHV) program. WHV is a partnership between the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization and the Veterans Administration that provides veterans with comfort and support at the end of life. The presentation will provide the latest information regarding subjects such as emotional issues and community resources, as well as comfort, camaraderie and support. Information will be shared on how our region’s veterans and their families can draw on help from the community to experience the best possible quality of life. The presentation is in collaboration with the Plymouth Veterans Services Office, Plymouth Senior Center and Old Colony Elder Services. The program is set for Monday, May 11th from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. A continental breakfast will be served. All are welcome to attend and there is no charge. Space is limited, pre-registration is suggested. To register, visit HopeHealthCo. org/CaringforVets, email [email protected] or call (774) 487-3667. Your Choice for Home Care on the South Shore 781. 878.0300 • • Experienced, caring CNAs, CHHAs & Homemakers • Automated Aide attendance tracker • RN supervision Family owned & operated Visit us on the web at www.southshoresenior.com • 19 Local News Saturday is Your Day Norwell – Spring is in the air, and there’s a number of things calling you outdoors. But as a caregiver, your time and efforts may be spent inside, caring for a loved one that needs your support. A Saturday Respite Program being offered by Carewell Adult Day Wellness Center may just be the support you need to break out of the winter doldrums and once again enjoy the great outdoors. The Saturday Respite Program provides caregivers and loved ones the opportunity to receive some assistance caring for your loved one on a Saturday, while you do the spring cleanup in your yard, go to your grandchild’s spring sports team event, or simply catch your breath after a long week. Carewell has a full line up of Saturday programs to entertain and care for your loved one. The program runs 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Scheduled Saturday events include Earth Day (April 25th); Kentucky Derby (May 2nd); Mother’s Day (May 9th); Gardening Day (May 16th); Memorial Day Celebration (May 23rd) and Mystery May Day (May 30th). Call Celeste Chase at Carewell for more details on the day’s activities and how your loved one will benefit. You may reach Celeste at (399) 788 – 9635. is Happening Here! Introduction to Meditation Series Cohasset Cohasset Elder Affairs will offer a three-class series for people who have always wanted to try meditation, but don’t know where to begin. In this program, participants will learn three styles of meditation: Moving Meditation, a walking, flow and Yin yoga meditative style; Yoga Nidra, a reclined or seated guided meditation for renewal and transformation and Insight Meditation to calm and relax the mind. Classes will be offered at 8:30 on successive Thursdays, June 11 - June 25 at Willcutt Commons, 91 Sohier Street, Cohasset, MA. $20 for the three-class series. Call (781) 383 - 9112 to reserve your spot. Webster Park’s foremost Rehabilitation Program delivers Physical, Occupational and Speech Therapy 7 DAYS A WEEK. Our Rehab Professionals craft individualized Rehab regimens utilizing the most advanced technology and latest treatment ™ advanced options for home care modalities. • Ranked in the nation’s top 500 of home health providers • More than 400 nurses, therapists and aides who visit patients at home Pulmonary Program with full-time Respiratory Therapist on staff! • Highly specialized care for those with cardiovascular disease, cancer and Alzheimer’s • Hospice care for terminally ill patients and support for their families • Community health programs for screenings and immunizations 781.871.0555 56 Webster Street, Rockland MA 02370 www.websterparkhealthcare.com Patricia Bloom-McDonald, Attorney at Law 1017 Turnpike Street (Route 138), Suite 23, Canton, MA 02021 Phone: (781) 713 - 4709 or (508) 636 - 6097 web: www.McBloomLaw.com Estate Planning, including Wills, Special Needs Trusts; Probate, including Guardianships and Conservatorships; Real Estate, including Reverse Mortgages; Refinances; Purchase & Sales; Elder Law, including Medicaid Planning and Application Assistance 20 • April • 2015 • A private-pay program offering home health aides and nursing care When it comes to home care, you can expect more from South Shore Hospital. Our home care division brings advanced treatments and technologies, and compassionate care to homes throughout the region. To learn more, call 800-432-9995 or visit southshorehospital.org/ homecare. expect more Homecare Ad 4.5x6.5-4c.indd 1 10/23/14 11:48 AM