Lifestyles over 50 April Edition

Lifestyles over 50

™

Encouraging vibrant and healthy living in the greater Lehigh Valley!

FREE - Volume 11 - Issue 1 - April 2016

Spring Has Sprung!

Understanding Your Medications

Things to do with Grandkids Spice Up Your Life

www.Lifestylesover50.com

Make Memories Last

e your Preserv with a story family's graphy. io video b Your legacy is your life story.

A professional videographer will come to you and make you feel comfortable as you share and record your life stories for future generations.

Specializing in Video Biographies, Personal Histories & Customized DVD production

YourLegacyBiography.com 610-794-6010 | phoebe.org/allentown

2016 Thursday April 21, 2016

from 10 AM - 4 PM Agri-Plex William Harris Agricultural Hall Allentown Fairgrounds.

17th & Chew Street - Allentown, PA 18104 Presented By

• Free Admission • Free Parking • Free Health Screenings • Chairs/Benches to Rest • Lots of Entertainment • Giveaways Galore!

Sponsors, Exhibitors & Advertisers Promote Your Business To register, Call Senior Fest 610-295-7988 or online at www.seniorfest.org

The Terrace

At Phoebe Allentown

The Terrace at Phoebe Allentown is a popular choice in retirement living. Conveniently located in the west-end of Allentown, we offer roomy apartments, exceptional value, fine dining and a welcoming environment.

Call today for a tour, or to get information! 610-794-6010 Immediate Occupancy Available!

From the Editor Spring has sprung - Finally!

If you are like me you are happy to see the winter leave us and just as happy to welcome the Spring.

My snow blower is safely covered and put away in a corner of the garage. Shovels are likewise put away. Garden supplies are front and center. And, of course, the motorcycle is fueled and ready to go!

Now that we will get out more check our “Things to Do with Grandkids” page as well as our “Spring Has Spring” feature.

Those articles will give you some ideas for enjoying the warmer climate with your family.

For those of you who might have to deal with aging parents we have a number of articles this month that offer advice and information that you will find invaluable.

We have an article on moving our aging parents when the time comes. If they will stay in their home, we have an article with advice and information on selecting a home health care agency.

Our aging parents almost all take medications. We have an article on the danger of mixing several medications at the same time. In some cases the interaction of some medications can have undesirable side effects - specifically they can affect balance and thus lead to falls. Our article provide guidance on who to talk to about such medication interactions.

Please come and meet us on April 21 at this year’s SeniorFest at AgHall in Allentown.

We would be happy to see you as we celebrate Lifestyles over 50’s 11th year of publication.

Art

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4847 Hamilton Blvd, Allentown, PA 18106

855-233-7034 www.Lifestylesover50.com

PUBLISHER Jeff Tintle, jtintle@lifestylesover50.com EDITOR Art Villafane, editor@lifestylesover50.com COPY EDITOR Vicki Bezems DISTRIBUTION Miguel Varela, Carlos Rodriguez, Luis Cruz For All Advertising Inquires call 855-233-7034 x700

Lifestyles over 50 is distributed FREE throughout the greater Lehigh Valley.

Copyright ©2016 Thrive LLC. Reproduction of any and all content is not permitted unless express written permission is granted. Opinions expressed in any commentary published in this magazine do not necessarily represent those of Thrive LLC and are not to be regarded as advice (legal, tax, investment or otherwise). Thrive LLC assumes no liability for the actions by any group or individual based upon such material. Advertising rates are available upon request. Publisher reserves the right to reject any advertisement or other information at any time. Subscriptions are available for $25 .00/year.

Things To Do With Grandkids The Pennsylvania Dutch Landscape: Belief, Identity, & Persistence in the New World Patrick Donmoyer of Kutztown University’s Pennsylvania German Cultural Heritage Center, discusses how Pennsylvania Dutch architecture reflects their culture. FREE to members; nonmembers $8 adults, $3 children. Free Parking, Lehigh Valley Heritage Museum, 432 W Walnut St., Allentown, lehighvalleyheritagemuseum. org. Apr 2, 2016 at 1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m.

Lehigh University Choir, Glee Club & Dolce: If Music Be The Food Of Love Actors, puppeteers, dancers and jesters join the musicians of Choral Arts in this imaginative tribute to the life of William Shakespeare and the glories of Elizabethan England. Fun for all ages. Zoellner Arts Center, 420 East Packer Ave., Bethlehem, zoellnerartscenter.org Apr 2, 2016 at 8:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

Monster Jam will perform at PPL Center Friday, April 1st, 7:30 p.m. Saturday, April 2nd, 2 p.m. Saturday, April 2nd, 7:30 p.m.

Sunday, April 3rd, 2 p.m.

Approximately 12 feet tall and about 12 feet wide, Monster Jam trucks are custom-designed machines that sit atop 66-inchtall tires and weigh a minimum of 10,000 pounds. Monster Jam trucks can fly up to 125 to 130 feet and up to 35 feet in the air.

The Party in the Pits on Saturday, April 2nd from 11:30am1pm gives fans the opportunity to get a view of the trucks up close and meet the drivers of the massive Monster Jam trucks. For more information go to MonsterJam.com.

Event website: http://tinyurl.com/zuyacoe The Nazareth Jazz Festival This event is FREE to the public. Nazareth Boro Park, North Broad Street Extension, Nazareth www.nazjazz.com Apr 30 12:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.

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Annual Bulldog Beauty Contest at America On Wheels Museum Registration Required – OPEN TO THE FIRST 30 BULLDOGS! For information call 610-432-4200 5 North Front Street americaonwheels.org Apr 17 1pm-3pm Wesley’s Spring Craft Fair & Egg Hunt. Egg hunt at noon. No registration required. Ages 1- 10. Silent Auction. Live music by Classic wave entertainment Lunch, Live Music, Free Parking 215-804-7509 April 9 10:00 am - 3:00 pm Wesley Church 2540 Center Street Bethlehem, facebook.com/events/804448972998065 Sing Along With The Muppet Movie - provides familyfriendly, raucous interactions with the classic, timeless films of Jim Henson.

Children and adults alike are urged to yell out famous lines, blow bubbles, dance in the aisles, and of course, sing along with the movies! 453 Northampton St. Apr 3, 2016 at 3:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. statetheatre.org/events/sing-along-withthe-muppet-movie The Wizard of Oz / Will Wonka & The Chocolate Factory 35mm Drive-In Double Feature Both features will be presented in their original 35mm film format, and splashed against a massive 108ft all-American steel screen! Join us for a night of family fun under the stars as we celebrate the return of Drive-In times! Mahoning Drive-In Theater, 635 Seneca Rd, Lehighton PA. Just off of Route 443, facebook.com/ events/1707623502813969 Apr 22 – Apr 23, 2016 (6:00 pm – 11:59 pm) The 64th Annual Festival of Bands 100 musicians from the Allentown Band, Marine Band, Municipal Band and Pioneer Band of Allentown perform a concert to raise awareness to the needs of more than 1600 children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. This year we honor all servicemen and women who lost their lives at Pearl Harbor. Northampton Area High School Auditorium, 1619 Laubach Ave., Northampton www. festivalofbands.org Apr 24, 2016 at 2:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Lifestyles over 50 April 2016

Evergreen Memory Care Opening in Palmerton

By Jeff Tintle, Lifestyles over 50

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or seniors and families dealing with memory issues, including Alzheimer’s and dementia, care options have been sparse in Carbon County. Now there is another option.

The Village at Palmerton, a personal care home in Palmerton, is converting an area of their existing senior living building into a secure memory care community called Evergreen. This is good news not only for Carbon County but also northern Lehigh County residents in Schnecksville, Slatington, Walnutport and other towns that trust the care of their loved ones to the Village at Palmerton.

The Evergreen Memory Care Community will offer personalized dementia care for up to 12 individuals. The community will offer private and semi-private rooms and have a specialized 24-7 staff experienced in caring for those with memory issues.

The community will be secure so that residents cannot wander. In addition, residents will be engaged with specialized activities, therapies and attention necessary to address each resident’s dementia needs. Evergreen is slated to open by this summer.

“We are very excited for our Evergreen Memory Care Community,” says Violanda Gonzalez, Marketing Director at The Village at Palmerton.

“There is a lot of need out there and we will be fully equipped to address the needs of those with dementia.”

Is It Dementia Or Just Old Age? With the opening of Evergreen Memory Care, here are some details on recognizing the changes you see in your aging loved one.

As we get older things change. We maintain our intelligence, but our brains change. We are less physically and mentally flexible, and we take more time to process information.

Continued on Page 6

Lifestyles over 50 April 2016

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Evergreen Memory Care Opening in Palmerton Continued from Page 5 Our memory changes as well, and it’s more difficult to remember names, places and other things as we age.

So what are specific examples of normal, old-age forgetfulness? Recently, Harvard Medical School identified several normal memory problems: Transience The tendency to forget facts or events over time. You are most likely to forget information soon after you learn it.

Absentmindedness This type of forgetting occurs when you don’t pay close enough attention. You forget where you just put your pen because you didn’t focus on where you put it in the first place.

Blocking Someone asks you a question and the answer is right on the tip of your tongue — you know that you know it, but you just can’t think of it.

Misattribution Misattribution occurs when you remember something accurately in part, but misattribute some detail, like the time, place, or person involved.

Suggestibility Suggestibility is the vulnerability of your memory to the power of suggestion — information that you learn about an occurrence after the fact becomes incorporated into your memory of the incident, even though you did not experience these details.

Bias In your memory, your perceptions are filtered by your personal biases — experiences, beliefs, prior knowledge, and even your mood at the moment.

Persistence The persistence of memories of traumatic events, negative feelings, and ongoing fears is another form of memory problem.

If you suspect any memory issues with your aging loved one then seek the counsel of your doctor. If you are interested in memory care living then schedule a tour at The Village at Palmerton 610-824-7406, thevillageatpalmerton. com.

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Downsizing Your Home Tips

By Elissa Clausnitzer, SRS, CMRS,Weichert Realtors Got too much stuff, too much house, too many bills?

Here are some quick tips for downsizing: 1. Access your needs What do you really need? Walk around your home and see what you’ve used in the past year and how often. One tip is to take everything out of your closets, cabinets and shelves and only put back what you actually use. If you like to hang on to your stuff, you may want to ask your spouse or children to do this for you. Don’t throw away anything valuable. If something might be worth a good amount of money, sell it. If not, be sure to recycle or dispose of it properly. Do not flush or throw into the trash any expired/ unwanted medicines. They will contaminate the water supply.

Any drugstore will dispose of these items responsibly, free of charge. You can also see if your city has a hazardous waste disposal facility.

2. Measure your furniture It’s best to know the dimensions of the pieces that you want to take with you to know if they will actually fit and if they will be functional and comfortable. You may want to consider laying out your new home on graph paper and drawing in the furniture. This can be done with software too.

3. Access your new storage areas This includes not only garage, attic, basement and closet space, but also cabinet space. Keep in mind you may not be taking shelves or other furniture so storage inside this furniture or on top will be limited.

4. Sell your stuff You have many options here depending on the amount of items and time available. Consider a yard sale or posting items to Craigslist or eBay. 5. Get organized After you’ve selected the items to take and keep, organize and label them properly. You’ll be happy that you did this while moving and getting settled in the new place.

Elissa Clausnitzer, SRS is a licensed Realtor with Weichert Realtors and has over 30 years of experience in real estate.

Elissa specializes in working with boomers and seniors in the many options that downsizing offers.

Specializing in working with Seniors Elissa Clausnitzer, SRS, CMRS 610-573-0386 elissaclaus@gmail.com

Lifestyles over 50 April 2016

Allentown 4124 West Tilghman Street ALLENTOWN, PA 18104 610-395-4500 x5435

The Value of a Certified Senior Advisor

By Bob Hollinger, CSA

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his photo is of my father, Bob Hollinger Sr.. who served three years in the United States Marine Corps in Italy in 1945. He’s 87 now, and I spend a lot of time with him. It’s been six years since my mother passed, and I have been so proud of him, living independently and taking great care of himself.

But recently I have been worried about him, because he’s falling, and though he can remember so many details about his life 70 years ago, he can’t remember who was in a movie he watched 20 minutes ago.

He’s giving money he doesn’t have to mail and phone scams, is now vulnerable and too trusting, and he doesn’t know how $500 is disappearing from his bank account every month.

He needs help. And I can and will help, because I am Bob Hollinger Jr., Certified Senior Advisor, helping seniors and their families in the Lehigh Valley.

Do you have a senior loved one who is forgetting food cooking on the stove? Are they forgetting when or if they took their prescription medications, then taking double doses? Are they forgetting to pay their bills on time when before they never never paid late? Is their balance an issue and are they falling? Are they making excuses and covering up things, or are they checking things incessantly. Do you worry that they are safe living alone? Are you concerned about their driving, especially at night, or have they had an accident recently? Are you worried about receiving a phone call from the hospital emergency room that there has been an accident. Are your shoulders tense and full of stress, worried sick about your senior loved one? Perhaps you need to speak

to a Certified Senior Advisor. And the BEST part about speaking with someone like Bob Hollinger, CSA, is that it’s always FREE. He would be happy to explain ALL your senior options here in the Lehigh Valley.

A CSA can take that stress and worry away with educated solutions to your senior concerns. I received that dreaded phone call from the local police the night of the 32 inch snow storm. Fortunately my father was OK and still alive when they found him, but he ventured outside in three feet of snow - to check his car battery!

The next step is to visit the VA for a dementia evaluation.

We hope he will start using his walker. And he needs three healthy meals a day at a place with activities to keep him busy.

So I will be moving him soon to a safer place, where I won’t have to worry about him falling and being found two days later.

There is help for you if you have questions that need answers. And it is only a phone call or an email away.

Call today to set up a free consultation. Tel(610)704-4090 bhollinger@youroasisadvisor.com

Find the Right Place for Your Loved One! Are you overwhelmed by the task of searching for the perfect senior housing for your loved one?

I Can Help.

Let me be your personal, local expert to guide you through the maze of senior care options.

Get Started Today.

Schedule a FREE consultation consult and get answers!

Contact Your Certified Senior Advisor Today!

Call 610.704.4090 Bob Hollinger, CSA

Lifestyles over 50 April 2016

7

Getting the Right Help for Your Move

By Ingrid Green, Caring Transitions of the Lehigh Valley

W

hen you’re ready to move, are you going to call your friends with pickup trucks to come over and help?

When relocating from a large four bedroom home to a one or two bedroom apartment in a senior living community, how will you downsize? Are you going to spend weeks packing up a lifetime worth of treasures in newspaper and boxes from the liquor store? Where do you even start when faced with these tasks?

The Senior Move Management industry specializes in assisting older adults and their families with the emotional and physical aspects of relocation. These professionals have significant expertise, resources and approaches that reduce stress, save money, and produce quality results.

Here are some helpful questions to ask when considering a Senior Movement Management company, or any company that says they provide downsizing and relocation services.

Training and Certification: • Have you participated in any formal training?

• Do you have an industry certification, and/or are you a member of an industry association?

Employee Standards: • Are you fully insured for liability and workers’ compensation?

• Do you have employees, or do you use contractors?

• Do you perform background screening?

Solutions Provided: • Do you provide an overall move plan and project management?

• Do you provide organizing, sorting and downsizing services?

• Do you interview, schedule and oversee movers?

• Do you provide packing, unpacking, and setup of the new home?

• Do you offer customized floor plans?

•

Do you arrange for dispersal of unwanted items, including sale, donations, recycling and disposal and completely empty the home?

Many companies, including estate liquidators and professional organizers, say they provide senior relocation services, but what kind of service is it when their primary business is something else? It’s important that you choose a company you can rely on, but also one you can trust to treat you and your possessions with the respect and dignity as well as understanding the unique challenges that come with senior moves.

Caring Transitions of the Lehigh Valley is a member of the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce and participates in the comprehensive Certified Relocation & Transition Specialist (CRTS) Program. We are a proud member of NASMM (National Association of Senior Move Managers). To learn more, contact Ingrid at IGreen@ CaringTransitions.net or 610-904-8093.

CaringTransitionsLehighValley.com

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Lifestyles over 50 April 2016

Sudoku

The objective of Sudoku is to enter a digit from 1 through 9 in each cell, so each horizontal row contains each digit once, and each column contains each digit exactly once.

1

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www.CrosswordWeaver.com

ACROSS

Medium Easy Answer

Medium Answer

1 Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries 5 Banish 9 Big sandwich 13 Noah's bird 14 City 15 Assure 16 Worker 17 Become active 18 Not taped 19 Grenade shard 21 Agitated 23 Import 24 Skullcap 25 Psycho 28 Wail 31 Great 32 Comforts 34 Doctor's picture 36 Goof 37 Travel term

38 39 41 43 44 46 48 49 50 53 57 58 60 61 62 63 64 65 66

2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

35 38

48 51

29 34

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28 32

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Easy

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United States Green Gables dweller Author of "The Inferno" Believe Cheating Tokens of recognition Classify Rook Cooking directions Brims (2 wds.)

Spoken Disagree violently Harp Tropical edible root Ill-natured Canal Sports channel Soaks Withhold

10 11 12 14 20 22 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 33 35 40 41 42 43 45 47 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 56 59

Winnie the __ Always Dealing with pottery Signal Pull Referee ___ oxide (anesthetic) ___, Nova Scotia – sea port Corrupt Wander Unpaid Be a threat to Pod vegetable Lubricate Sports shoe projection Tableland Impersonating Coward Mistreating Not as false Went gently __ -garde Sweet potatoes 5th Greek letter Guides Indelicate Lagged Pater Ill-being Broken bone coverings Memorization Time periods Cavil Fastener Greek sandwich Little Mermaid's love Search Sign of the zodiac

DOWN 1 Chances of winning

Crossword puzzle answer on page 10

Lifestyles over 50 April 2016

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Trivia to Amuse •

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The fingerprints of koala bears are virtually indistinguishable from those of humans, so much so that they could be confused at a crime scene.

The 7 Dwarfs are Doc, Bashful, Sleepy, Dopey, Grumpy, Happy, and Sneezy.

The longest U.S. highway is route 6 which starts in Cape Cod, Massachusetts and ends in Bishop, California.

Printed books of religious songs were being produced as early as 1476, but at that time each publication had to be run through the printing press three times: once for the staff lines, once for the note heads and stems, and once for the words. It wasn’t until 1525 that a printer worked out a way of printing everything at once.

A little more than a century ago, there was an account of a flock of passenger pigeons in a column 500 yards wide that took three hours to pass over the observer: about a billion birds in all.

Today, the passenger pigeon is extinct.

Is there such a word as alright? No such word as alright is recognized in modern English usage. It is branded by reputable English dictionaries as an erroneous form of the phrase “all right.”

The names of the three wise monkeys are: Mizaru: See no evil, Mikazaru: Hear no evil, and Mazaru: Speak no evil.

Ernst Beaux created the first “designer perfume” for legendary Paris couturier Coco Chanel while Solution to puzzle on page 9

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they were staying in Biarritz. And what about Chanel #’s 1-4? They never existed. The “5” was coined because the perfume was launched in 1921 on the fifth day of the fifth month.

• Beelzebub, another name for the devil, is Hebrew for Lord of the Flies, and this is where the book’s title comes from.

• It is believed that Shakespeare was 46 around the time that the King James Version of the Bible was written. In Psalms 46, the 46th word from the first word is shake and the 46th word from the last word is spear.

The highest scoring word in the English language game of Scrabble is ‘Quartzy.’ This will score 164 points if played across a red triple-word square with the Z on a light blue double-letter square.

It will score 162 points if played across two pink doubleword squares with the Q and the Y on those squares.

The dial tone of a normal telephone is in the key of “F.” Dr. Seuss and Kurt Vonnegut went to college together. They were even in the same fraternity, where Seuss decorated the fraternity house walls with 20 drawings of his characters.

The sugar from the urine of a diabetic is identical with grape sugar. Discovery of this fact by the French chemist Michel Eugene Chevreul in 1815 was the first step in the direction of recognizing diabetes as a disease of sugar metabolism.

Forty’ is the only number that has all its letters in alphabetical order.

The airplane Buddy Holly died in was the “American Pie.” (Thus, the name of the Don McLean song.)

Clans of long ago that wanted to get rid of their unwanted people without killing them used to burn their houses down ~ hence the expression “to get fired.”

Murphy’s Oil Soap is the chemical most commonly used to clean elephants.

All porcupines float in water.

Many years ago in England, pub frequenters had a whistle baked into the rim or handle of their ceramic cups. When they needed a refill, they used the whistle to get some service. “Wet your whistle” is the phrase inspired by this practice.

Left-handedness is extremely common in twins. It is unusual, however, for both to be left-handed.

Lifestyles over 50 April 2016

Ensuring Your Care New program takes the worry out of care as one ages

By Phoebe Ministries

One of the things that frightens most boomers and seniors is the prospect of becoming sick and saddling children with their care. The loss of independence is scary, but becoming a burden to a child is petrifying. Fortunately, there is peace of mind for this worry, and it is offered by one of the Lehigh Valley’s most respected organizations – Phoebe Ministries.

Pathstones by Phoebe, is a new Continuing Care at Home (CCAH) program that officially began last summer.

According to Melanie Kohler, Executive Director of Pathstones by Phoebe, the program is an extension of Phoebe’s longstanding mission to serve the needs of older adults. “Pathstones allows Phoebe to serve the broader community in new ways,” says Kohler. “We can provide those living beyond our traditional campus walls with continuing, high-quality care in the comfort of their homes.” Members also feel comfort and peace of mind because they have a plan and professional support to handle unanticipated health needs that might otherwise result in a crisis situation.

Members can rest assured knowing they have Pathstones staff members ready to assist them for the rest of their lives.

Pathstones offers personalized wellness coordination and the services of a Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) in the comfort and security of a member’s home.

Members partner with a dedicated Wellness Coordinator, and can request services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. This provides peace of mind; members and their families will always have a resource and an advocate focused on ensuring that individual care needs are met.

The Wellness Coordinator will help members proactively navigate current or emerging needs like diet and nutrition, home safety, and medication evaluations. If desired, cooking,

technology, and housekeeping assistance can also be arranged. As more care is needed, comprehensive services include care coordination, home maintenance, companionship, referral and emergency response services, transportation for necessary medical appointments, physical therapy, and medication management.

Health services are administered by Phoebe-trained staff, including aides, therapists, nurses, and care coordinators.

Short-term, higher-level care is also available after an injury or surgery, and once the member has recovered, he or she may return home at the prior level of independence. If needed, nursing care can be provided in-home up to 24 hours a day. Membership even covers a change in residence to a personal care or a skilled nursing facility, should a member make the decision to move—even if the facility is out of the area.

Like a traditional CCRC, Pathstones members pay a one-time entrance fee and monthly membership fees. Fees depend on the applicant’s age and the plan selected. They cover the cost of future services, but are significantly lower than the rates at a traditional CCRC. Amidst rising long-term care insurance premiums and restrictive policies, “Pathstones is a great complement or alternative to long term care insurance.

Unlike long term care insurance, however, Pathstones members can receive services as soon as they are needed and for as long as they are needed,” according to Kohler.

For more information on the many benefits of membership call 610-794-6700 or visit pathstonesbyphoebe.org.

Care. Comfort.

Compassion.

Senior Helpers offers personalized in-home care, professional caregivers and peace of mind for your family.

All at a moment’s notice.

610-770-2036

www.seniorhelpers.com ©2016

Lifestyles over 50 April 2016

11

Understanding Your Medications Can Reduce Your Risk of Falling

By Lori Samer, RPh., Medication Matters

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revention of falls is critical to maintaining the quality of life as one ages. The psychological effect of a fall or the fear of falling again can be as debilitating as the fall itself.

After the initial fall, an individual may limit his or her physical activities, resulting in muscle weakness which can lead to further falls. Fear of falling may also lead to restriction of social activities and hobbies, which can result in feelings of isolation and depression.

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Self-care can become more challenging during the recovery phase after a fall, leading to reliance on others and a sense of losing independence.

There are several risk factors that put a person at increased risk of falling, including vision impairment, history of one or more previous falls, and certain side effects of medications.

Polypharmacy, which is the taking of four or more medications daily, as well as reduced mobility due to joint disorders, arthritis, and Parkinsonism (Parkinson’s-like symptoms such as slowing of movement, tremor, rigidity or stiffness, and balance problems), may also make a person more likely to fall.

Aging itself has an impact on falling.

There are age related changes in vision, balance, strength, coordination, and reaction time.

Changes in drug metabolism, leading to drug levels being different in elderly than younger patients, are also a risk factor. Periodic evaluations of these factors will decrease the risk of falling. Because the side effects of medications can

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contribute to falls, it’s a good idea to have your medications reviewed by a pharmacist regularly.

The following types of medications may increase the risk of falling:

• •

Any medication that alters mobility, gait, balance, sensory perception, or reflexes Medications that cause changes in blood pressure or blood glucose levels.

Medications that can cause blurred vision or light sensitivity.

In some cases, the risk is dose dependent, which means a reduction in the dose may decrease the risk of falling.

Since some risk factors can be reduced, it’s important to pay attention to details. Proper footwear, use of ambulatory aids such as a cane or walker, strength/balance/coordination exercises, and regular eye exams can help prevent falls.

HOLY FAMILY MANOR

Creating a safe home environment and paying particular attention to cords, rugs, pets, and sufficient lighting, especially for middle of the night bathroom visits, will reduce your chances of falling.

By being aware of medication side effects, effects of aging, and your environment, you will be able to decrease your risk of falling significantly.

Lori Samer, owner of Medication Matters LLC, is a pharmacist specializing in addressing patient’s medication related problems through education and personal medication reviews.

We identify misunderstandings patients have about their medications as well as promote safe and effective medication use. To learn more, please email Lori at medicationmattersllc@ gmail.com or call 484-268-8237.

Compassionate Care for More than 50 Years

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1200 Spring Street, Bethlehem, PA 18018 • 610-997-8437 • hfmanor.org

Lifestyles over 50 April 2016

Massage Therapy for Low Back Pain

By Donna Ondek, Vibrant Life Therapies

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f I had a nickel for every person who has experienced low back pain, I’m sure I would be a millionaire! Aches and pains from low back strain are very common, especially since we tend to be a more sedentary society. However, when that back pain starts to interfere with your life, or is present more than it is not, it may be time for a therapeutic massage.

The majority of my clients have come to me because they have experienced severe back pain. Their activities have been greatly limited and range from not being able to stand up without pain shooting down their leg, to not being able to straighten up at all for hours.

My clients range in age from 30 something to 80 something – all with similar low back issues. Some folks say “I just bent down to pet my dog� or “I just sneezed�. While others know that too much gardening or driving aided in the discomfort they feel now.

Interestingly enough, while all the causes and the pains are experienced differently by each client, they seem to all have the same muscular issues. Upon closer examination of their musculature, I usually find trigger points, pain, and/or tenderness in the gluteal muscles.

While my clients have experienced more pain on either the right or left side, the issues seem to be similar: The right Glute Min and Glute Med and Piriformis have trigger points and are very tight, while the left are very painful, yet overstretched. Additionally, the right low back is typically very tight, while the left low back is again, overstretched – but still painful. In fact, overstretched muscles cause more pain than the tight ones do.

The therapy I apply to each client within a full body massage, includes appropriate strokes to release the tight right side, including the hamstrings and calves, the Glutes and the back, and appropriate strokes to stimulate the long, overstretched muscles on the left.

Usually, a good deal of time is spent on stretching the hamstrings and glutes.

in Trexlertown, PA, offers massage therapy, exercise therapy, and nutritional counseling. Donna Ondek, owner, is a licensed Massage Therapist and certified Personal Trainer and Fitness Counselor. Donna specializes in and Rehabilitative and Medical Massage, Lymphatic Drainage, Mastectomy and Oncology Massage.

Typically my clients leave the therapy session feeling better than when they came in. In most cases, repeated sessions are necessary to ensure the therapeutic changes are integrated into a person’s body, with lasting pain relief (3 days or more) experienced after 3 or 4 sessions.

So the next time you experience low back pain, consider therapeutic massage therapy.

To learn more, contact Donna via phone or text at (610)703-1596, email donna@vibrantlifetherapies. com, or visit VibrantLifeTherapies. com. By combining your desire for and commitment to improved health and my knowledge of the body and passion for health, we can begin to help you experience a more Vibrant Life today!

About Vibrant Life Therapies Call (610) 703-1596 today to The “glutes� refer to the 3 major Vibrant Life Therapies, LLC, located schedule an appointment. muscles in you buttocks. They are Glute Max – the Poppa bear, Glute Med, the Mama bear, and Glute Min, the 'EPP JSV E JVII Baby bear. Now in reality, Baby bear RS SFPMKEXMSR ETTSMRXQIRX causes the most pain even though 610.770.7773 it is the smallest of the three (isn’t that always the way!!). The Mama 7IVZMRK 8LI +VIEXIV bear causes the second highest pain, To you it’s about making the 8S ]SY MX´W EFSYX QEOMRK XLI whereas Papa bear may not cause any VMKLX GLSMGI To right choice...To us, it’s personal.

0ILMKL :EPPI] us, it’s personal. pain at all because he is underutilized.

Underlying these 3 muscles is another trouble maker – the Piriformis. You may even have heard of Piriformis Syndrome. The Piriformis is deep under Glute Max.

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Lifestyles over 50 April 2016

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13

Senior Assessment Programs Diagnose Older Adult Problems and Suggest Solutions

By Mary DeHaven, St. Luke’s University Hospital and Health Network “Dad wandered out of the house last night dressed only in his pajamas. It was pouring rain. Thanks goodness the neighbor called me. I don’t think he should be living alone”.

“My friend saw my Mom run a stop sign last week. And sometimes she just stares into space as though she’s not there. I don’t think she should be driving anymore”.

“Most of the time my wife is fine but the other day she put the ice cream away in the microwave and last week she couldn’t remember our son’s name. I’m afraid it might be the early stages of Alzheimer’s”.

When our loved ones give us clues that there may be something seriously wrong, we’re often at a loss what to do. A senior assessment may be the answer. Senior assessment services bring together health care professionals such as geriatricians, nurses, nurse practitioners, pharmacists and social workers to provide comprehensive evaluations and recommendations for senior care.

“Coping with the mental or physical decline of a parent, spouse or friend can be disheartening,” says Anne Grogan, St. Luke’s Network Director for Senior Care. “You may not know where to begin and because you are emotionally attached to your loved one you might not even want to admit that something’s wrong. A senior assessment service can accurately evaluate the situation and provide you with options that best meet your loved one’s needs.” Before offering suggestions, St. Luke’s Senior Assessment Service completes a thorough evaluation to assess the individual’s physical, mental and emotional health. Although all assessment services differ, a comprehensive evaluation should include: • A physical examination including walking and balance assessment • Psychological testing including screenings for depression and memory loss

14

• •

•

Diagnostic Testing, which may include laboratory studies, MRI and X-ray An inventory and analysis of the individual’s medications, both prescribed and over-thecounter, as well as any herbal supplements An interview with family members, especially caregivers, to gather information, answer questions and hear concerns

environment,” Grogan says. “Once we determine the cause of the problem we work with the individual, the family and the patient’s primary care physician to develop a comprehensive plan to address the problem. Then, we align the patient with community resources.”

St. Luke’s Senior Assessment Service is available in Bethlehem and Phillipsburg, NJ. For more information, “Sometimes the problem is easily call the Bethlehem office at 484-526correctable,” Anne says. “For example, 7035 or the Phillipsburg office at 908did you know that a common urinary track infection can cause confusion in an 847-6722. elderly person and often goes unnoticed When to Consider an Assessment because unlike younger people, seniors rarely experience the painful, burning An assessment may be right, if your sensation that signals presence of a UTI. loved one has: By treating the infection with antibiotics, • Experienced a decline in physical the confusion clears.” health or memory • Difficulty maintaining daily living Usually, however, it is more skills complicated, and often depression, • Fallen frequently malnutrition and, of course, disease • Declined in appearance and contribute to the problem. The hygiene assessment can determine the role • Been taking multiple prescription each of these plays and suggest how medications to address each one. “Our goal is to • Difficulty managing prescription keep our patients functioning at their • Difficulty managing finances, highest emotional, social and physical such as unable to manage a level so they can remain as independent checkbook or has unnecessary as possible in their own, familiar purchases

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Lifestyles over 50 April 2016

Spring Has Sprung!

It is time to shake off the winter and have some fun.

Some of these activities involve the kids and grandkids. Let out your inner child. Get everybody going – get outdoors – get moving.

Get excited for spring! Flower buds are starting to peek out. Birds are returning to the neighborhood. The sun feels warmer and brighter than it has in months, and the arrival of Daylight Saving Time means it stays light later, too.

Leave those thoughts of snowstorms behind. Spring is here are some fun ideas to get you in the mood for the loveliest season.

• • • • • • • • • • • • • •

• • • • • • • • •

Fly a kite Look for four-leaf clovers Get dirt under your fingernails Find a playground and swing on the swings Feed the ducks at a pond Skip stones across a pond Pick strawberries Listen to the rain Watch bumblebees at work in a garden Notice the trees budding Spot a rainbow Listen to the birds singing Feel the sun on your face Leave your windows open to catch a spring breeze Visit the zoo Go to a baseball game Take an evening stroll Listen to the cicadas Wash the car together Make or buy a bird feeder.

Get dirty in the yard. Mow the grass. Pull weeds. Till flower beds. Replant. Cut back.

Take your binoculars and go bird-watching.

Have a garage sale and give the kids jobs.

A PATCH OF FOG By Gilda DeGrego Oh relative in darkness wherever did you go?

High spirited, fun loving, and witty, were traits you did forego.

Now nebular mind and memory, a vacant lot to see, as reason galloped to a bottomless pit the depth of a dark churning sea.

By making a home in the abyss, the self remains as a shell, distinct personalities dissipate, and smother the spirit-as -well But what are you thinking, do you feel deep despair?

Are you comfortable being quiet, do you think to comb your hair?

Where is your soul, your kind loving heart?

Are you feeling frustrated, angry, or afraid?

I shudder to think you don’t know me, I can’t help but feel betrayed.

I feel I want to shake you, to make clear that cloud which surrounds you, yet I know it is all in vain.

Alas, alas, this fog which envelopes and squelches life to the core, the answer for this abhorrence, lies interned with you after going beyond life’s door.

Poem written by Gilda DeGrego during a Writing Seminar for Senior Citizens sponsored by the Clarkstown High School North English Department

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Lifestyles over 50 April 2016

15

Stomp

By Alan Allegra Stomp! Admittedly, an unusual title. It is neither meant to be a command nor the sound of a cockroach being dispatched. It is the name of a most amazing stage show that my wife and I recently experienced.

(Just as a side note, we haven’t experienced any cockroaches lately.).

When you first see the Stomp performers, you might think of them as mere street urchins and guttersnipes; little more than a gang of New York human slumgullions. They look like common people who wouldn’t amount to much; people for whom you wouldn’t waste a second glance.

But just wait until that broom starts sweeping out a rhythm and those garbage can lids start flying! The members of Stomp create an urban-chic symphony using “instruments” made from items you wouldn’t notice unless they were in your way.

They use garbage cans, shopping carts, fire extinguishers, street signs, water bottles, straws in soda cups, brooms, Tic Tacs . . . even the kitchen sink in a choreographed, daredevil display of talent that, on first glance, goes unrecognized.

Trashed bags and newspapers are given new life in the hands of these masters.

You can probably guess where I’m going with all this. God is a Master who can take the broken, neglected, unnoticed, discarded people of this world and make beautiful music with them!

We all fit somewhere in the following passage: “For consider your calling, brothers: not many of you were wise according to worldly standards, not many were powerful, not many were of noble birth. But God chose what is foolish in the world to shame the wise; God chose what is weak in the world to shame the strong; God chose what is low and despised in the world, even things that are not, to bring to nothing things that are, so that no human being might boast in the presence of God” (1Corinthians 1:26-29).

The apostle Paul seemed as worthless for the cause of Christ as can be, but “The saying is trustworthy and

deserving of full acceptance, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am the foremost. But I received mercy for this reason, that in me, as the foremost, Jesus Christ might display his perfect patience as an example to those who were to believe in him for eternal life” (1 Timothy 1:5-16).

When we are tempted to look down on others and not notice their worth to God, remember Paul’s words: “Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves” (Philippians 2:3).

The inanimate objects can’t boast about the music they make. They did not create themselves, and they cannot make music themselves. They cannot repurpose themselves, just as we cannot do great works for God on our own: “I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing” (John 15:5).

It is when we are connected to Jesus, born again (John 3), that we are repurposed and acceptable to God, capable of making truly beautiful music to his ears.

Once in the hands of the Master, ordinary, common, disposable men and women of any age, background, status, and color are cleaned up and put together in a harmonious family able to glorify God. To see and hear what the Stomp performers could wring out of tubs, buckets, hands and feet, makes one stand up and shout! When we yield to God through Jesus Christ and allow him to make us new creatures (2 Corinthians 5:17), we can say with the psalmist, “I will offer in his tent sacrifices with shouts of joy; I will sing and make melody to the Lord (Psalm 27:6)!

When you think you are worthless and disposable, remember STOMP: Salvaged Tools On the Master’s Platform!

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16

Lifestyles over 50 April 2016

Affordable Senior Living In Allentown

A Bit of Humor

By Art Villafane, Lifestyles over 50

By Jeff Tintle, Lifestyles over 50

•

Anyone familiar with Allentown has seen it before, whether looking at the city from a distance or passing by its prominent location on 15th Street. We are talking about the Episcopal House, an independent senior living apartment community. It is located one block off Hamilton Street, one block up from the Allentown YMCA, and rises into the Allentown skyline 19 stories. One-bedroom and studio units comprise the 210 total apartments in the building. Close to bus stops, shopping and more, this is an ideal place to spend your retirement years.

•

This pet-friendly community, with all its conveniences, amenities and ideal location, is reasonability priced for moderate income seniors 62 and older. Rent for a one bedroom apartment is $548 a month, and the rent for a studio apartment is $422 a month. Rent includes utilities and cable.

•

Each apartment is freshly painted and carpeted. An efficient galley kitchen offers a gas stove and frost-free refrigerator. Studio units also have a large pantry closet in the kitchen. Each bathroom is equipped with grab bars for your safety. One-bedroom units offers a large walk-in closet.

Every unit has mini-blinds, heating and air conditioning units, smoke detectors and sprinklers. Each large studio apartment offers all the comforts of the bedroom unit at an affordable price.

If you are looking to downsize, or just looking for a secure place to call home but still want to be in a community with weekly activities, social events, entertainment and more, then call 610-821-0311 or visit EpiscopalHouse.com to learn more.

Your LOCAL Homecare Agency!

Our qualified caregivers are available 24 hours a day to provide: • Personal Care • Meal Preparation • Companionship • Light Housekeeping • Medication Reminders Transportation • Post-Hospital/Rehab Stay • Long-Term/Temporary Care

Call for a Free In-Home Assessment

610-838-1700

Millbrook HomCare Partners, Inc.

47 West Water Street Hellertown, PA 18055

• • • •

• • •

If you ever get cold, just stand in a corner for a bit.

They’re usually around 90 degrees.

Did you hear about the two guys that stole a calendar?

They each got six months.

Why do you never see elephants hiding in trees?

They’re really got at it.

I think I want a job cleaning mirrors.

It’s just something I could really see myself doing.

Why can’t you hear a pterodactyl going to the bathroom?

Because the “P” is silent.

What’s orange and sounds like aparrot?

A carrot.

What’s blue and smells like red paint?

Blue paint.

Could you please call me a taxi?

“You’re a taxi”.

What’s Forrest Gump’s password?

1forrest1 What do you call a sleepwalking nun?

A Roamin’ Catholic.

Offering Studio & One-Bed Room Apartments Independent living for residents 62+ Call for a Tour 610-821-0311

Episcopal House Amenities: • Reasonable rental rates include all utilities except phone • Close to shopping, doctors, hospitals, and cultural venues • Secure building, activity rooms/ resident activities • LANTA Bus Line • Social Service coordinator • Beauty Salon, Library & Chapel • Wellness Clinic (2nd Monday of each month) • Grocery Delivery (Wednesday) • Laundry Room 1440 Walnut Street Allentown, 18102 610-821-0311 Episcopalhouse.com

PA State Licensed - Serving the Lehigh Valley - Fully Insured

Lifestyles over 50 April 2016

17

Reinventing Me at 53

15 minutes, I determined it was impossible. I could solve algebraic equations with my eyes closed, but I could not add

By JoEllen Krajsa, President, AFC Reverse Mortgage a picture to a Facebook account. How was I going to run a business?

Reinventing yourself is difficult, and it can be a real challenge when forced to do Over the next few months, I spent my time studying and so. At 53, I was the loving mother of three becoming licensed as a mortgage loan originator. I learned children, a full-time Math teacher at St. the accounting of the company. I studied our marketing Thomas More School in Allentown, and plans, our compliance manuals, our insurance policies, our devastatingly, a widow. office procedures. Slowly but surely I tackled the mountain in front of me. I renewed our license, began negotiating with “Change”. It’s constant in life. You other business, and started attending networking events. cannot stop it. Everything changed for me. Relationships, daily routines, life as I knew it. I also realized that the calculus A Place for Mom asked our company to be their Reverse for retirement had changed. No longer could I rely on the Mortgage Expert. But most importantly, I kept a very income from the business that my husband had built. Or challenging business running that my husband would be could I? Could I run that same business? Math teacher to running a business, what a leap. I decided to take a chance, to proud of. One committed to trust, integrity, and teaching, not selling. Reinventing myself was difficult and scary, but I jump into running a company. am so glad that I took on that challenge. Over the last three years I learned a lot, especially about myself.

I was lucky. I had the love and support of my friends, family, and fellow teachers. My son, currently worked for Change is constant, so adaptation must be as well. There the business and could show me the ropes. The staff at the will be many ups and downs along the way. Healing from a company supported me and welcomed me with open arms. loss is a slow process. Be patient with yourself. Have faith in Still, it was one of the biggest challenges of my life. After yourself. Be your best. God Bless. losing a spouse, your brain just doesn’t work the same way. It is hurt, broken and bruised. It takes a long time to heal. The JoEllen is the President of AFC Reverse Mortgage most mundane tasks seem daunting. One of my first tasks (610) 437-7230 or afcreversemortgage.com was to create a Facebook account for the company. After

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18

Lifestyles over 50 April 2016

How to Choose a Health Care Agency Janine Reppert, RN, SPHR, SHRM-SCP, Aaron Healthcare There are options for those seeking care for a loved one with personal care needs at a level that suits the individuals.

Skilled nursing facilities, assisted living facilities and home care agencies are definite options for many.

The first call should be to your local Area Agency on Aging (AAA), or Office of Senior Services (OSS) who can refer you to the current state intake office. Eligibility for state and federal subsidized service or waiver programs is determined by the state entity.

Once deemed eligible, the state representative assigns the case to a provider. The provider will furnish a list of vendor agencies qualified from which to choose. Most programs fall into the “Consumer Choice” option. This means you have the right to choose the provider for your loved one’s care. If your loved one does not qualify for subsidized care there are still options for privately paid service or payment through long term care insurance if that coverage exists.

Whether care is subsidized by state/federal funds or insurance or private funds, here are few tips to assist in the process of securing care.

•

• •

Make sure the agency is licensed. Effective April 2010, state wide licensing of all home care agencies went into effect. Finding out how long a company has been in business is also a good indicator of their practices.

Make sure the agency personnel are available to you twenty-four hours a day, every day.

Employees vs. Sub-Contractors. Home care agencies have employees, registries have sub-contractors.

Employees are screened, qualified and interviewed by the agency prior to placement, and are covered

by the agencies’ insurances, relieving your loved one of liability.

A Registered Nurse should be making the initial visit to determine your loved one’s needs and create a care plan for employees or contractors to follow. There should be no charge for this visit or subsequent visits to review employee performance or a change in the patient’s needs. “Consumer Choice” allows the patient to choose their preferred provider. Take advantage of this option!

While caring for a loved one can be overwhelming at times, there are options to help alleviate some of the stress.

Taking advantage of available options can give family members some time to themselves as well as allow them more “quality time” with their loved one.

For more information on services available when caring for a loved one, contact Janine Reppert, RN, SPHR, SHRMSCP from Aaron Healthcare at 610-691-1000 ext. 116.

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19

Spice Up Your Life!

by Diane Schrameyer, RSVP When I hear the phrase “variety is the spice of life” I think about making life more interesting by doing a lot of different things with lots of different people in lots of different settings.

As I reflected on this concept and how it applies to my own life I realized I have experienced some of the most variety in my life as a volunteer. I have had fun working with some of the best people as I pinched pierogies, rolled halupki, set up bazaars, taught children, sung on choirs, worked sales and festivals, sorted donations, entered data, and served on boards and committees.

I realize, too, that I haven’t changed all that much over the years. If I learn of a project that seems interesting to me the first thing I’ll do is check my calendar to see if I am free that day and time. The timing is as important as the details about the project. I guess I figure I can do just about anything for a few hours! Well, maybe not anything. At least not anymore.

At a recent staff meeting we were talking about some of the opportunities that come up over the course of a year.

We have a coordinator on our staff whose energy level goes through the roof when a special project comes along. So we concluded there are certainly lots more people like us. There have to be more people who would rather volunteer to help with one-time projects than commit to regular volunteering.

So now Senior Corps RSVP has a Special Events Coordinator to mobilize teams of volunteers around special projects we were asked to help complete. We started with a team that worked the gates at the Allentown Fair collecting canned goods for Second Harvest Food Bank. This event benefited 7,645 individuals.

Most recently a team has gone to the drop-in center of HOPE for Veterans to organize hygiene products and other donated clothing and household items to make it easier for staff to help homeless and struggling veterans.

If you’re thinking about volunteering and not quite sure if you want to commit to a regular assignment we encourage you to start with a Special Project. Contact Senior Corps RSVP. Help with one or more of the projects to assist an area non-profit. Have fun! Add some variety and spice to your life!

Quotes • Here’s to all volunteers, those dedicated people who believe in all work and no pay. ~Robert Orben • Volunteers are the only human beings on the face of the earth who reflect this nation’s compassion, unselfish caring, patience, and just plain loving one another. ~Erma Bombeck • Volunteers are paid in six figures... S-M-I-L-E-S. ~Gayla LeMaire • Wherever a man turns he can find someone who needs him. ~Albert Schweitzer • Unselfish and noble actions are the most radiant pages in the biography of souls. ~David Thomas • Those who can, do. Those who can do more, volunteer. ~Author Unknown • The world is hugged by the faithful arms of volunteers. ~Terri Guillemets • You may not have saved a lot of money in your life, but if you have saved a lot of heartaches for other folks, you are a pretty rich man. ~Seth Parker • I can no other answer make, but, thanks, and thanks. ~William Shakespeare

We had another team of RSVP volunteers work with the American Red Cross and a local Fire Department on a Home Fire Safety Program in the neighborhood where an apartment fire claimed the life of an 8 month old child. In one weekend the entire group made 26 home visits and installed 74 ten-year smoke alarms.

20

Lifestyles over 50 April 2016

Classified

Listings free for not-for-profits. Others $15 per listing (under 75 words)

Send to : Lifestyles over 50, Attn: Editor. 4847 Hamilton Blvd. Allentown, Pa 18106 or Editor@lifestylesover50.com

Volunteers Needed

Phoebe Allentown seeks individuals to assist with memory support neighborhoods. You train in Montessori principles to create meaningful experiences by practicing person-centered care. For a rewarding experience - 610-794-5362 jwickel@phoebe. org.

Meals on Wheels Northampton Cty and Calvary United Methodist partner to provide meals to seniors in Easton area.

Volunteers needed. Contact Janet Soos janets@mealsonwheelspa. org Meals on Wheels of Lehigh County -Discover how easy and rewarding it is to deliver meals to our homebound clients.

Teams of 2 deliver on 33 routes throughout Lehigh County.

Drive a route or ride along as a visitor. 610-398-2563 or dstillwagen@mealsonwheelslc. org.

do together: listen, go for a walk, watch a movie, enjoy a cup of coffee, etc. Main duty – Have Fun! 610.435.9651.

Heartland Hospice seeks volunteers to offer bedside support and presence to those facing terminal illness. Training, flex hours. Robin Trexler, 610266-0134 Are you a “people person”?

Have skills and talents to use to “give back”? Compassionate Care has a variety of volunteer opportunities with a training and support programs. Call Carolyn at 610-770-6500.

Center for Vision Loss seeks volunteers to assist blind and visually impaired people as companions, transportation drivers and Mall Walk helpers.

Office assistants and vision screeners are needed. Training provided. Daytime hours only.

610.433.6018, x.231rita.lang@ centerforvisionloss.org.

and friends - monthly at St. Luke’s Allentown Campus. 3rd Wed. 6 pm refreshments 6:30 pm To register 1-866-STLUKES. MS First Tuesday support group for patients, families and friends at St. Luke’s University Hospital, Bethlehem. 6:15 register at 1-866-(785-8537) First Tues,1pm Emmaus Garden Club Faith Presbyterian Church, North 2nd and Cherokee Streets, Emmaus. Public welcome. (610) 966-4181 First Wed. LV Vegetarians.

Quaker Meeting House Rt. 512 half mile N. of Rt. 22 Township. Pot luck dinner. 6pm. $3.50 610-709-8984

First Thurs., 10-11:30 am. 610-433-6018 Vision Loss Support Group for LV residents facing vision loss. Center for Vision Drivers: ITNLehighValley Loss, 845 W. Wyoming St., Lutheran Home - Topton invites provides rides for seniors 60 and Allentown. volunteers to share musical over and visually impaired adults. talent, voice or instrument with Drive riders to appointments in First Thurs. 12PM residents. Flex hours, days, eves, LV, 90% are medical. Requires (except July and August) weekends. Lou Wentz at 610vehicle, good driving record, AARP Chapter (#4150) 682-1542 or wentzl@diakon.org. some free time. Training community room of provided, we work with your Lower Macungie Library Compeer of LV- volunteer 4 schedule. 610-419-1645.

Bldg (3450 Brookside Rd). hrs. a month with Compeer (610) 285-4563 friend, a person who lives with Lehigh Valley Hospice provides mental illness. Do what friends volunteer opportunities for AARP Chapter 3115 noon individuals who believe that first Thurs at American life is a journey. Join us and Club, 300 Cherry St., Do you have discover how enriching it is to Coplay. Singer Glenn spend meaningful time with our faul entertains. old classic patients. Call Janet Barber, 610- Refreshments available. records that 969-0127.

Bring non-perishable item for food bank. New you want members welcome.

Social & Support Groups 610-395-2820. to sell?

Call Julius Vitali of VINYLALLY HEAR at

610-217-1629 (cell) 610-966-6202 (phone)

Buying classical records and collections

ENCORE (female cancer support / exercise group) Tues.

6:30-8pm & Fri. 9:15-10:30am.

Allentown YMCA & YWCA, 425 S. 15th St. 610-434-9333, x 313.allentownymcaywca.org.

Parkinson’s Disease Support Parkinson’s patients, families

First Thurs. AARP #5415 Allentown Chapter first Friday St. Timothy’s Church, 140 So. Ott St. Allentown. Membership 12-l P.M. Open to public at 1. Speaker Donna Ondeck with therapy and

nutrition information Bring non-perishable food item for Allentown Food Bank 610437-4265 Second Sat. 10:30 Like gardening? Jordan United Church of Christ, Rt 309 & Walbert Ave Allentown, peace garden, custom peace sculpture, peace pole, worship areas, biblical plant, children’s bed, gazebo, swing, trails.

610-395-2218.

Second Sat, Bethlehem Garden Club, share garden tips with local pros and hobbyists 610-838-1482.

Second Mon. 7-8:30 pm. pray & share together for emotional wholeness, women’s support group struggling, or have family struggling with depression, bipolar, etc. 3400 Bath Pike, Suite 103 Bethlehem. Linda 610-395-8756.

We also meet at Asbury Methodist Church Tues after 2nd Monday. 7-8:30 pm.

Second Mon. 1PM St. John’s Friendly Fifties meets at 1343 Newport Avenue in Northampton. Joe Weber will entertain.

Third Friday. 9:30. People Meeting People Club, Senior Social Group. Fellowship Hall, Asbury United Methodist Church.

7-8:30 pm.

Second Tues. 3PM TRIAD at Lehigh Co. Senior Center (Enjoy Life). Monthly meeting. 3 PM. Second Wed. Parkinson’s Support Group St. Luke’s Hospital Allentown campus 17th and Hamilton St. Refreshments and presentation 6:00 - 7:30 Topics related to PD. Caregiver Support Group 3rd Sat 11-12 noon at Comfort

Zone 755 Memorial Parkway Building 302B Phillipsburg, NJ. 908-859-6722 Third Wed, LV Military Affairs Council – Saucon Manor in Hellertown. 121:30pm, 484-788-0196, info@ lvmac.org, or www.lvmac.org for info.

Second Thur, 12PM Caregivers & Professionals Network Group. Country Meadows of Allentown, Bldg 3, 610-395-7160 Third Sat. For anyone caring for a family member with memory loss or impairment, group meets (908) 8596700, extension 2276 for information.

Fourth Wed Men of Retirement Age Club 1-2;30pm, Advent Moravian Church, 3730 Jacksonville Rd, Hanover.

Tues 1:30-4:30 Palmer Senior Group, meet seniors, play cards, share good times. Charles Chrin Community Ctr Palmer Township 610-252-2098 palmercommunitycenter.org Wed. noon. Fogelsville Senior Group at Fire Company.

Amelia, 610-395-2224.

Schnecksville Senior Citizens Group Thurs: games and social activities 12 noon.

Schnecksville Fire Company Rt 309. Info: 610-769-7570

Exercise Bethlehem YMCA. For info on Silver Sneakers and all pgms: www.ymcabethlehem. org/ or 610 867-7588.

Allentown YMCA. For info Silver Sneakers and all pgms: www.allentownymcaywca. org/ 610-434-9333. Pgms include Tai Chi, Yoga I, Zumba Gold and mat Pilates, 3rd St. Alliance. Tai Chi, Clogging, Tae Kwon Do. Schedules and fees vary.

610-258-6271. www.

ThirdStreetAlliance.org.

Easton YMCA. For info Silver Sneakers and all pgms: familyymca.org/ or 610.258.6158, OxyFit Gym several 1 hour Silver Sneaker programs 610391-0040 ww.oxyfitgym.com.

Salvation Army Senior Program 610-867-4681.

Every Tues play bridge 1012; Thursdays varied Social Programs at 10:45 a.m.

Every Thurs 10:45 A.M. Senior Activity Program & Lunch at 12:00 Noon. Salvation Army, 521 Pembroke Road, Bethlehem (seniors 50 & over) 610-867-4681

Dances LV Active Life (Lehigh County Senior Ctr) $7 refreshments. lehighseniors. org. Sat. Dance 7:30-11pm.

610-437-3700.

“Dancing on the Odds” on odd numbered Fridays at 3rd Third Street Alliance, 41 N. 3rd St. Easton. Lessons

We add color to your Business World NEWSPAPERS FULL COLOR BROCHURES & MORE

1-800-443-0377 LEHIGHTON, PA 18235

7-8pm, Dancing 8-10pm. $10 at door. Instructor Con Gallagher (610) 433-7804. .

Allentown Area Swing Dance.

Fearless Fire Co. 1221 S Front St. 610-390-7550. $9 includes lesson 7pm - 8:30, no partner needed. www. allentownswingdance.org for schedule Social Ballroom/Latin Swing Dance Saturday, 2nd Sat. @ 7pm TC Dance Club 6623 Sullivan Trail Wind Gap, PA 610-881-1000 learnballroomlatin.com Refreshments & BYOB. Lesson at 8:00pm $12, no reservations, all welcome – with or without partner

Bingo Wed 5PM game at 6:30PM Volunteer Fire Co Fogelsville Ladies Auxiliary Cash Prizes 484-350-1388 HTCC hosts monthly Bingo1st Thurs of month at 6:30 pm! Prizes range from $40 to $125. 610-317-8701.

Wed 6:30 LV Active Life (Lehigh County Senior Ctr.) Free coffee, snacks. $15 includes 4 double cards & 1 pack of specials.610-437-3700

Alz. Support Groups Alzheimer’s Respite Program Hope Community Church 7974 Clausville Rd. Fogelsville, For those in early stages of Alzheimer’s. Respite time, support for caregivers.

Free, Wed - 1-5 PM 484-6190330 bowerdav@gmail.com.

1st Thurs 11:00 am Arden Courts 5151 Hamilton Blvd.

Allentown 3rd Sat 3:15pm 410 Krocks Rd. Country Meadows, Atown 3rd Wed 3pm Phoebe Terrace 1925 Turner St. Allentown, 2nd Wed 5:30 pm Sarah Care Adult Day Care 7010 Snow Drift Rd. Allentown, 1st Thurs 1:00pm St. Andrew’s Church 1900 Pennsylvania Ave. Allentown

3rd Thurs 4:30 Westminster Village 2156 Hanover St. Allentown, 3rd Wed 6:30pm Country Meadows Living 4005 Green Pond Rd., Bldg. 4, Bethlehem, 3rd Tues 5:00 pm Kirkland Village 1 Kirkland Village Circle Bethlehem, 4th Mon 2:30pm Moravian Village 526 Wood St. Bethlehem, Last Monday 6:30 pm Traditions of Hanover 5300 Northgate Dr. Bethlehem, 3rd Wed 1:00 pm Third Street Alliance 41 North Third St Easton, 1st Wed 9:30am Moravian Hall Square 175 W. North St. Nazareth.

1st Thurs (except Dec.) Whitehall Manor 6-7:30pm.

1177 6th Street, Whitehall 3rd Thurs (except Dec.) Saucon Valley Manor 6-7:30pm. 1050 Main St. Hellertown Phoebe’s Alzheimer’s Support Grp 3-4:30 PM 3rd Wed. Phoebe Terrace, 1940 Turner St, Allentown. For those with loved ones with Alz. or other dementias. 610-794-5273.

Phoebe’s Connecting Hearts Geriatric Care, at-home personalized coaching to make dementia-related caregiving more manageable.

1st Tues 2-3:30PM, for venue call 610-438-9400, e-mail MemoryCafe@ AbingtonManor.com or check website at www. abingtonmanor.com. Café provides place for friends to gather and enjoy socialization, refreshments and discussion.

Designed for those with Alzheimer’s and dementia as well as their care partners and friends.

Community Events Celebrate start of spring at Peddler’s Village Spring Fling Sat, Apr 16 10a.m.-6 p.m, and Sun, Apr 17 10-6 p.m., rain or shine. Free admission, parking peddlersvillage.com/festivals/ spring-fling

Caring Has a New Name Lutheran Home Care & Hospice is now SpiriTrust LutheranTM Home Care & Hospice. Our mission remains the same: to provide compassionate home health care, hospice and in-home support.

It’s just our name that has changed.

Call (800) 840-9081 www.SpiriTrustLutheranHomeCare.org

Arden Courts, a 100% dedicated memory care community, recognizes the importance of customizing a well-rounded care plan for residents with Alzheimer’s or related dementias to help them thrive physically and emotionally. For more information or to schedule a personal tour, call the location nearest you.

Allentown 5151 Hamilton Boulevard Allentown, PA 18106 610.366.9010

Old Orchard 4098 Freemansburg Avenue Easton, PA 18045 484.373.5170

®

Formerly Lutheran Home Care & Hospice

Recognized for Excellence

Dedicated to Christ-Centered Care

PHOEBE

arden-courts.com

The Leader in Dementia Care

Whitehall, PA

610.799.3000 FellowshipCommunity.com Independent Living • Personal Care Nursing Care Center • Short-Term Rehab

Nationally Recognized for Alzheimer’s and Memory Support Services phoebe.org/allentown | 610.794.5300

Caring for our Seniors St. Luke’s Center for Positive Aging enables older adults and their caregivers to address the needs and challenges that often arise in later life. We help seniors get the most out of life through a wealth of programs, classes and services designed by geriatric specialists.

• Senior Assessment Service

• The Comfort Zone – Adult Medical Daycare

• The Memory Clinic

• St. Luke’s Home Health • Hospice

• Older Adult Behavioral Health Unit

• St. Luke’s Surgical Program for Seniors

• Geriatricians and Advanced Practitioners

• Inpatient Geriatric Consultation

All six St. Luke’s Hospitals have attained NICHE Designation for improving the care of older adults.

St. Luke’s Center for Positive Aging To find out more about theses services, please call 1-866-STLUKES (785-8537) or visit www.sluhn.org