Summer 2008 - Center on Aging

For Older Adults, Their Families & Caregivers
Community Education
Event
Page 5
Date, Time & Location
Keep Your Identity to Yourself
Jimmie Lou Fisher
Consumer Education Instructor
Arkansas Attorney General’s Office
2 Locations!
Identity theft is on the rise. Find out about tips and measures to
protect yourself.
Elder Law
Douglas R. Jones, BS, MBA, JD
Cynthia Orlicek-Jones, BS, J.D
Elder Law Attorneys
Older adults have special legal and financial planning
needs. This free program will show options from elder law experts.
10:30 a.m.
Lawrence Co.
Comm. Rm
115 W. Walnut
Walnut Ridge
2 Locations!
The Magic Potion for Youthful Aging
Robin Banks, RN, Education Outreach Specialist
Center on Aging-Northeast
How do you maintain your health, physically and mentally?
Attend this program to learn how.
Wednesday, August 20th
10:30 a.m.
Blytheville Senior Center
1101 David Dr.
Blytheville
Monday, September 8th
4:00 p.m.
Center on Aging-Northeast
303 E. Matthews
Jonesboro
Tuesday, September 9th
10:30 a.m.
Lawrence Co.
Comm. Rm
115 W. Walnut
Walnut Ridge
The
Brain Teasers Club meets on the
2nd Wednesday of each month at
2:00 p.m. at the Center on AgingNortheast. Call Robin Banks at
930-9900 or 1-800-745-0557 to join
for fun and fellowship.
is a publication of the
Center on Aging-Northeast
Our Mission Statement:
The Center on Aging-Northeast
exists to be the regional resource for older adults, families, health care
professionals, and the community; advocating wellness, education
and quality care.
Thomas Mulligan Director
Beverly Parker
Director of Education
Robin Banks
Education Outreach
Specialist
Cynthia Abel
Project Program
Specialist, Editor & Designer
2:00 p.m.
Sharp Co.
Courthouse Annex
Hwy. 167 N.
Ash Flat
Monday, September 22nd
1:30 p.m.
Westminster Village
Ramey Center
5215 Southside Drive
Blytheville
New way to receive SS payments!
Announcements
Summer 2008
10:30 a.m.
First Community Bank
Community Room
2401 W. Beebe Capps Expressway
Searcy
Understanding One of Life’s Little Pleasures: Male Sexual Function
Thomas Mulligan, M.D., Geriatrician
St. Bernards Senior Health Clinic
How do you transfer your personal property to your loved one?
How can you be fair? Tips on how to transfer personal property
will be given.
2:00 p.m.
Sharp Co.
Courthouse Annex
Hwy. 167 N.
Ash Flat
Wednesday, August 13th
This program will focus on showing people, especially those with
diabetes, the healthful way to eat and cook for their families.
Grandma’s Yellow Pie Plate
Martha May, U. of A. Cooperative Extension Service
NONPROFIT
U.S. POSTAGE PAID
JONESBORO, AR
PERMIT No. 42
Tuesday, July 15th
Dining with Diabetes
Romona Thieme, U. of A. Cooperative Extension Service
Robin Banks, RN, Center on Aging-Northeast
Hear this national expert discuss diagnosis and treatment of sexual
dysfunction; information every man (and woman) should know.
UAMS/AHEC-Northeast
223 E. Jackson
Jonesboro, AR 72401
Social Security and SSI payments can now be
on a debit card instead of a check. This is good
news for those who do not have a checking
account.
The card is similar to a bank debit card and
can be used at automatic teller machines
(ATMs) using a personal identification or “PIN”
number provided to you. The cards can be used to purchase
items, pay bills and get cash anywhere Mastercard debit cards
are accepted. Every month your benefits will be added to
the card. People may sign up for the card by calling toll-free
1-877-212-9991 or visiting www.USDirectExpress.com.
Visit our website!
www.centeronagingne.com
When experiencing neck pain,
see your doctor immediately if:
• Severe pain from an injury
• Shooting pains
• Loss of strength in arm or leg
• Change in bladder or bowel
habits
When someone says that you are
a ‘pain in the neck,’ it is not usually
meant as a compliment. Neck pain is
no laughing matter.
Most people will experience some
form of neck pain, either acute, lasting
only a short period of time, to chronic,
which can last for several weeks or
longer. Neck pain can be caused by
a variety of reasons and usually can be diagnosed simply by your medical history
and a physical exam. For some reason, women experience neck pain slightly
more often than men.
A common cause of neck problems is whiplash from a car accident or other
injury. Other causes can result from poor posture, especially while on the
computer. Unfortunately, some neck pain is the result of more serious problems,
including neck muscle strains, worn joints, or disc disorders.
Neck pain is treated in a variety of ways. Regular movement is an important
part of therapy, especially when the pain is muscular. An ice massage applied for
5 to 10 minutes at a time can be helpful within the first 48 hours of pain onset. For
pain lasting over 48 hours, heat should be applied to the area. Tylenol™, aspirin
and other anti-inflammatory drugs also can help relieve the pain.
Your doctor may treat more severe neck pain with physical therapy, a pain
management regimen and in some cases surgery.
There are ways to avoid or improve neck problems. Think tall and practice
good posture. Take frequent stretching breaks from whatever activity you are
doing. Make sure you can work on a computer without bending your neck. Instead
of a backpack or shoulder bag, use a clutch bag or fanny pack. This will shift
weight from the neck.
The neck is a delicate instrument and becomes more so as we age. But with
proper care and activity, we can avoid the damage that can lead to having a ‘big
pain in the neck.’
Resources:
Mayoclinic.com
American College of Rheumatology
UCLA Center on Aging
By Cynthia Abel, MA, BSE
How often did your mother tell you that drinking your milk would build
strong bones? This is true if the milk is fortified with vitamin D, an
essential, fat-soluble substance which is present not only in fortified milk
but also in foods such as salmon, mackerel, sardines, eggs, and cod-liver
oil. Other foods that may be vitamin D fortified include breakfast cereals,
some juices and vitamin supplements. Be sure to check the labels to
make sure that the product has been fortified with vitamin D. Exposure
to the sun is also an important way to accrue vitamin D.
Unfortunately, many older adults are unable to receive the recommended amounts of vitamin D. Complications from this
deficiency may include muscle and bone problems, osteoporosis, hip fracture and falls. A new study from the May, 2008
edition of Archives of General Psychiatry, also suggests that insufficient amounts of vitamin D may also contribute to depression in those 65 and older. Other new information released by the American Society of Clinical Oncology, shows a link
between vitamin D deficiency and the occurrence of breast cancer.
According to the Federal Food and Drug Administration, the
recommended daily dose of vitamin D is 400 IU (International Units)
Ways to get your daily dose
for those aged 50 to 70, and 600 IU for people over the age of 71. A
higher dosage of 700 to 800 IU is recommended in order to prevent
of Vitamin D.
falls and fractures. It is important to note that when taking
supplements one should not exceed 2000 IU a day.
•Drink your milk. One cup of milk has
For many people, only a small amount of sunlight can produce a
about 100 IU of vitamin D. Other milk
large amount of vitamin D. It is estimated that only 10 minutes of sun
products, such as cheese or ice cream,
a few times a week is sufficient for Caucasians or those with light skin.
do not contain vitamin D unless
People with darker skin may require more time in the sun. Of course it
otherwise specified.
is important not to overdo the sun exposure due to risk of skin cancer.
Unfortunately, due to mobility or other problems, many older adults are
•Eat the right foods. Foods high in
unable to acquire the sun exposure they need to maintain vitamin D.
vitamin D include a salmon fillet (360 IU),
Look at the list on the left to see other ways to get your daily dose of
a can of tuna (200 IU) and a cup of raisin
vitamin D.
bran cereal (40 IU).
It seems that Mom was right! Now drink your milk and
enjoy the reward!
•Ask your doctor about dietary
supplements and foods that are fortified
By Cynthia Abel, MA, BSE
Resources:
with vitamin D.
U.S. Food and Drug Administration
Archives of General Psychiatry, May, 2008, vol. 65, No. 5
Focus on Healthy Aging, August, 2007.
American Society of Clinical Oncology
2
Supplements
2
Healthy Agers
3
Prostate Cancer
3 Health Happenings
4 Professional
Programs
5 Community
Programs
6 Neck Pain
Don’t Let a Fall Be Your Last Trip
There are many myths associated with aging. One of the most misleading
notions is that falls are a normal part of aging.
Physical changes that occur with aging can increase the risk of falling, but
measures can be taken to decrease your risk. Engaging in regular physical
activity, having an annual eye exam, and checking for potential hazards in the
home are a few measures that one can take to reduce the possibility of an injury.
The Center on Aging-Northeast and other centers around the state are
gearing up to participate in a statewide Fall Prevention Campaign through the
Arkansas Aging Initiative. Individuals wanting to know more can call the Center
on Aging-Northeast at 930-9900 or 1-800-745-0557. Also, watch for upcoming
community education programs on fall prevention.
Stay active, independent and falls free!
by Robin Banks, RN
Resources : orthinfo.aaos.org
poststat.net
Health Education
Do Vitamins and Supplements
Really Work?
Health Education
Page 2
Healthy Aging Perspectives
By Thomas Mulligan, M.D.
Many people take various vitamins, minerals, or supplements in the hope of improving their health or controlling an illness.
For example, the majority of older adults take vitamins or calcium and nearly 50% take such things as ginkgo biloba, fish oil,
glucosamine, or other supplements. But do these things really work?
All vitamins, supplements, herbals, and even chiropractic are known as complementary or alternative medicine (CAM).
There is an excellent website (www.nccam.nih.gov) at the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine that
provides objective information on whether these various products have been proven to help or hurt.
Importantly, supplements and herbals are NOT regulated by the Food and Drug Administration. Thus, there is no
guarantee that these products work. In fact, there is no guarantee that what is on the label is in the bottle in pure form. Thus,
we need to be cautious about the use of supplements and herbals.
Nevertheless, there are some products that really work. For example, acupuncture helps in the treatment of drug addiction, and acupressure helps in the treatment of nausea and vomiting after cesarean child birth. Aloe vera helps heal the skin
lesions of genital herpes. Ginkgo biloba is slightly effective for treatment of patients with Alzheimer’s disease. And, ginseng
improves physical performance in older adults. St. John’s wort is effective as treatment for depression. And, Saw Palmetto
improves bladder emptying in men with prostate enlargement.
In contrast, however, there are many supplements that do little more than make your wallet lighter. For example,
Echinacea and zinc do not help prevent the common cold or make it go away faster. Homeopathic remedies likely have no
effect because there is nothing in the bottle. As a general rule, supplements and herbals have not been proven to work and
typically don’t work. Though I don’t usually discourage patients from taking them, I also don’t recommend them. If you want
to know for sure if a product works, log onto www.nccam.nih.gov and read what they say about your product of interest. You
may be surprised. The Center on Aging-Northeast provides free computer access and can conduct information searches for
you on request..
Fourth Healthy Ager Project
The Healthy Ager Project, a 10-week fitness program, recently finished its fourth successful year. During the
series, ASU masters level physical therapy students developed individualized wellness/fitness programs for 15
older adults. Nursing students worked to improve the person’s overall health
status. As part of the program, participants were offered free lab work, courtesy of
St. Bernards Medical Center, for cholesterol, blood sugar, etc, at the beginning and
the end of the program.
The goal of the Healthy Ager Project is to help older adults improve their overall
fitness level while giving students a chance to know more about seniors in the
community. A total of 14 seniors completed the program and were treated to a
graduation ceremony on April 24th along with their assigned students. Pat
Malone, a Healthy Ager who commuted from Corning two times a week, really
enjoyed the whole experience. She stated that she “felt some discomfort, but it built up my strength and I feel
great! It not only helped me physically, but I was depressed and this turned things around for me mentally.”
Sister Eileen Schneider began the project with a bone bruise on her ankle. Sister Eileen thought that both
students assigned to her were “positive and encouraging and very considerate of
my limitations with the sore ankle. They patiently worked with me over the weeks
doing what exercises I was able to do.” Sister Eileen was so committed to the
program that she cut her vacation a day short so she would not miss a session.
The students enjoyed the experience also. One student commented, “It was fun
interacting and learning…this was my first real exposure to healthy adults over a
time period and getting to see what they can do.”
The Healthy Ager Project is conducted each spring by the Center on AgingNortheast and Arkansas State University. A limited number of slots are available each year, usually about 15.
For more information on the Healthy Ager Project, or to get on the list for next year, call the Center on AgingNortheast at 930-9900 or 1-800-745-0557.
Page 3
Prostate Cancer Screenings:
Every year, many communities in Northeast
Arkansas provide prostate screenings and other
services for area residents. Health fairs are valued
by those who appreciate the free services and time
donated by area healthcare professionals. For some
participants, such as Michael Davis of Pocahontas, the
annual screening literally saved his life. Mr. Davis was
kind enough to share his thoughts with Seniority.
Initially Mr. Davis was reluctant to attend the
prostate screening in Pocahontas. He was convinced
to attend the screening by his co-workers who were
going as a group. According to Mr. Davis, “I had a PSA
test every year except the previous one and didn’t feel
that I had any real problems. However, I sometimes
had a problem emptying my bladder, but I attributed
it to having had several attacks of kidney stones.”
Fortunately, for
Mr. Davis, he did attend
the prostate screening.
He received a letter a few
weeks later suggesting
that he have a follow-up
exam with a urologist
since his PSA number was high. After several tests
were performed, it was determined that Mr. Davis had
prostate cancer.
Due to the fact that Mr. Davis had suffered polio
as a child, his urologist felt that robotic surgery was
the best option for a swifter recovery. Mr. Davis was
referred to a specialist in Little Rock for the procedure.
According to Mr. Davis, “I had surgery on
February 27, 2007. My prostate was removed, and
tests showed the cancer was only confined to the
prostate. No chemotherapy or radiation was needed.”
The specialist informed Mr. Davis that his early
detection of the cancer due to the prostate
screening had made it possible for the cancer to be
treated before it had spread to other areas.
A Survivor’s Story
Since the surgery, Mr. Davis has returned to a normal
schedule and his subsequent PSA tests show he is
cancer free. He is now a firm advocate of annual
prostate screenings.
Raul Blasini, himself an 11 year prostate cancer
survivor and a tireless promoter of annual screenings,
says that “early detection is important, but you should
follow-up with your doctor every year. Every single
man is vulnerable... It is important that all men take
responsibility to have regular check-ups.”
The Center on Aging-Northeast
Congratulates Raul Blasini
Raul Blasini of Pocahontas has been
appointed by Governor Mike Beebe to the
Arkansas Minority Health Commission.
Raul is also a member of
the Center on AgingNortheast’s Education
Advisory Committee and is a
tireless advocate for
improving health and
wellness for older adults.
Raul has worked with the
Arkansas Prostate Cancer
Foundation for several years as a board
member and as an active promoter of prostate
cancer screenings in Northeast Arkansas. He
also has served as a representative of the
nation’s prostate cancer survivors for the
Department of Defense. His term on the
minority commission will expire in 2010.
Congratulations, Raul!
Upcoming Screenings and Health Fairs
Day of Caring
Saturday, July 19th
9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Ganus Center at
Harding University.
Searcy
St. Bernards Prostate Screening
Wed. Sept. 3rd & Thurs. Sept. 4th
7:00 a.m to 12:00 p.m.
St. Bernards Auditorium
505 E. Washington
Jonesboro
Prostate Screening & Health Fair
Saturday, September 13th
8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Pocahontas Comm. Center
205 Geneva Dr.
Pocahontas
Professional Education - For Healthcare Professionals Caring for Older Adults
Event
Date, Time & Location
Improving Care of the Cognitively Impaired *● ∆ (3 hrs. CE)
Mark Pippenger, M.D.
Dementia: Understanding
& Controlling Difficult
Behaviors
Susie Sifford, MSN,
GCNS-BC
Reducing
Resident-toResident Violence
Page 4
Tuesday, July 22nd
2:30 to 6:00 p.m.
Thomas Mulligan, M.D. St. Bernards Imaging Center
Delirium: Decreasing
1144 E. Matthews
Mortality Through Early
Jonesboro
Recognition & Treatment
Falls Prevention and Restraint Reduction *● (2 hrs. CE)
Mary Watson, MSN, RN, ARNP, BC
Friday, August 15th
8:00 - 10:00 a.m.
White County Medical Center
Hubach Center
Identify causes of falls in older adults, assessment parameters and
3214 E. Race
interventions for evidence-based fall prevention. In addition, investigate restraint use
Searcy
and identify alternative methods. Continental breakfast provided by WCMC.
Pre-registration required.
Medications and Medicare *● ∆ (1 hrs. CE)
Tuesday, August 19th
Lisa Hutchison, Pharm.D., M.P.H.
12:00 p.m.
UAMS
St. Bernards Annex
Stroud Hall
As a part of the AHEC lecture series, this presentation will focus on how Medicare
223 E. Jackson
guidelines affect prescribing practices.
Jonesboro
New Ideas for Pressure Ulcer Reduction and Treatment *● ∆ (2 hrs. CE)
Tami Holloway, RN, BSN, WCC
Director, Wound Healing Center, White River Medical Center
Wednesday, September 10th
11:45 am. to 2:00 p.m.
White River Medical Center
1710 Harrison Street
Attendees will recognize the importance of the initial assessment as well as
Batesville
reassessment of pressure ulcers concerning the new CMS Present on Admissions
Lunch Provided
Indicators. Learn to apply appropriate pressure ulcer intervention and treatment options. RSVP required
Identification and Management of Delirium in Older Adults *● ∆ (1 hrs.CE)
Larry Johnson, M.D., Ph.D.
Associate Professor of Geriatrics, UAMS
Friday, September 12th
7:30 -9:00 a.m.
White County Medical Center
Hubach Center
The program will enable you to access, prevent and manage delirium. Breakfast
3214 E. Race
provided at 7:30 a.m. courtesy of WCMC. Pre-registration required.
Searcy
* AHEC-Northeast is an approved provider of continuing nursing education by the Arkansas Nurses Association,
an accredited approver by the American Nurses Credentialing Center’s Commission on Accreditation.
∆ Pharmacy CE credit approved by the Arkansas State Board of Pharmacy.
● Approved for CE credit by the Office of Longterm Care
Registration required on all programs.
Attention Veterans!
In Arkansas, a veteran (of all kinds, up to and
including the first Persian Gulf conflict) can apply
for a specialty license plate and pay under $5 for
vehicle registration. The Veteran must prove past
or present military service, have a record of
honorable military service , and have been
honorably discharged (form DD214). Each veteran
is limited to only one discounted license plate.
The savings may be enough for a few gallons of
gas. Consult your local
Revenue Office or Arkansas
Department of Finance and
Administration for details.
Beverly Parker, RN, MS
PEPPI
PEPPI is an exercise program that improves strength
and balance. PEPPI classes are open for anyone to
attend. Please contact the Center on AgingNortheast at 930-9900 or 1-800-745-0557
for dates. times and directions to the locations.
Caraway Senior Center
First Baptist Church, Hardy
1st United Methodist Church, Jonesboro
Harrisburg Senior Center
Lake City Senior Center
Lepanto Senior Center
Marked Tree Senior Center
St. Bernards Village, Jonesboro
Trumann Senior Center