Senior Connection - Managing Diabetes & Other Chronic Ailments

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Connection2011 March 27th

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Managing Diabetes

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Chronic Ailments

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Senior Connection | March 27, 2011

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I-69 Exit 23 • 100 US 27 S. 888-482-1233 LJ-0100078704

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Promoting health, independence and choice for older adults, individuals with disabilities, and caregivers.

We are a non-proďŹ t agency committed to providing information, assistance, and resources to create choices for independence. Older adults want to remain in their homes for as long as possible. We can help! We also help caregivers access services to help them be more effective.

Have questions, not sure where to start? Call our trained specialists today.

269-441-0973

SERVING BARRY AND CALHOUN COUNTIES LJ-0100075779

Senior Connection | March 27, 2011

200 W. Michigan Ave. Battle Creek, MI 49017 269-966-2450 800-626-6719 www.region3b.org

3

Chronic Disease part 1

The Cost isToo High - Karla Fales, CEO

Region 3B Area Agency on Aging

(517) 279·9808

90 N Michigan Avenue, Coldwater, MI 49036 | www.laurelsofcoldwater.com

Mission Statement

Creating a Legacy by Exceeding the Needs and Expectations of Those We Serve, While Embracing The Laurel Way. Short-Term Nursing and Rehabilitation The Laurels of Coldwater provides a complete range of services for patients that are unable to return home after a hospitalization The Laurels of Coldwater cares for individuals with a wide variety of illnesses. Short-term stay programs offer comprehensive care in the following areas • Orthopedic Rehabilitation Program •Neuro Rehabilitation Program • IV Therapy • Cardiac Recovery Program • Infection Resolution Program

• Wound Healing & Wound Prevention Program • Respiratory Program • Digestive Diseases Program • Alzheimer’s Skilled Services Program

Okay, I’m kinda of a data geek. I like numbers – I have no clue how to make them do their magic, but I admire and appreciate those folks that do and then share them with us. Hence, a recent research project from the Emerging Risk Factors Collaboration, based at Cambridge University, caught my attention. The numbers were alarming – adults with Type 2 Diabetes who did not have a known vascular disease (like PAD and others that increase your risk of

LJ-0100079382

John C. Morgan, MD William J. Comai, DO Michael J. Langworthy, MD Senior Connection | March 27, 2011

Andrè Z. Oulai, MD

4

Bart R. Keller, PA-C Michael L. Bills, PA-C

We're here to help every step of the way 710 North Avenue

269-969-6251

www.bcortho.com LJ-0100075870

stroke) died a n average of six years earlier than those who did not have the disease. The ERFC study included more than 820,000 people and of those, the median or middle range for early death was about thirteen years! Thirteen years people!

If you are curious why I got so geeked about the geek study – Last year, I had one of those “get it together” visits with my physician, Dr. Rose Lovio at Day One. Apparently I had been playing a little roulette with my eating and exercise habits and as a result, my blood sugar had crept into that “pre-diabetic” range that makes doctors put on their serious tone of voice. But Dr. Lovio, being the positive, “boots straps” encourager that she is, merely explained what the number meant and then asked me point blank what I was going to do about this “situation” I’d allowed myself to get into. Of course, Dr. Lovio knew that even the idea of managing a chronic disease, especially one that I worked myself into by my own bad choices,

would not be very appealing to me so she pulled up a chair and together we set out on a plan to get the numbers under control. She also knew I’d do the research and probably scare myself senseless without the lecture I probably deserved from her.

After the initial shock and a few days of berating myself, I did get busy on reversing the trend and my poor performance on my annual physical – which because of my “situation” had now turned into a quarterly physical. It also helped the light bulb go off on the true cost of a chronic disease – both in terms of years of my life and impact on my pocket book.

First, quarterly doctor visits? Okay, I have insurance so I’m not whining too badly, but still that’s an additional $90 a year assuming I manage to stay healthy in between. That’s the cost of a couple of tickets to a Tigers game after all! Then, those test strips and pokers and other paraphernalia to keep track of my numbers on what seemed like an hourly basis. Holy sticker shock, Batman! That gym membership started to look like a really good deal after pricing out Diabetic supplies for a year!

But I must admit, some of the studies that pointed out the real cost of chronic disease, like the one I referenced above – that’s what really got my attention and got me moving in the right direction. Think about it for just a minute: Six - 13 years less time with your spouse or close friends or to watch your grand children grow? Sorry, that’s not for me. Also consider how much higher your risk is for other diseases that can not only shorten your life but also significantly reduce the quality of your life like heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, amputation and blindness. Sorry, not interested in those either.

Suffice it to I did manage to get my act together.

Within six months I had reduced my blood sugar to a safe number and lost 25 pounds. I’m still working on another 30 pounds, but I got a “two thumbs up” from Dr. Lovio at my last visit and was rewarded with an appointment that was six months out, not three months.

The moral of the story for me has been that the cost is too high to allow myself to slack off and get lazy about my health. Our own efforts may not prevent all occurrence of chronic disease, but many of the leading causes of death like heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and some cancers are related to life-style and ongoing life choices. What about you? What are you willing to pay for a longer, more productive life?

Expanding Your Options

For Remaining at Home - Rod Auton, Executive Director Region 3B Area Agency on Aging

It doesn’t take a long conversation with an older adult to know what their goals are for their long-term care – they want to remain at home for as long as possible. But as their care needs increase, especially due to the on-set of chronic disease, questions about how to accomplish that goal can arise. Concerns about safety, how to manage more complex healthcare needs, and how to pay for longterm care options can leave some seniors wondering where to turn.

The P.A.C.E program at CentraCare began a little over a year ago inside the Burnham

Brook Community Center. We are excited about the new options that this program provides to our seniors, especially those who are low-income and need help to remain at home.

What is P.A.C.E. you ask? It stands for a Program of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly. CentraCare is the non-profit entity that operates the program. The program’s goal matches that of most of our seniors - to keep seniors in their homes and in the community for as long as possible. P.A.C.E. is unique, however, in that it offers participants

access to an integrated, multi-disciplinary team that will work with them to help them achieve their goal of longer-term independence. It is also unique in that the program serves as the medical home for their participants. All needed medical services are either delivered or coordinated by CentraCare’s multi-disciplinary team and includes preventative, rehabilitative, curative and supportive services at its day center and in clinic, as well as other home-based services such as homemaking that are providing in participant’s homes and extends to care in the hospital or a nursing home if needed. Services offered include transportation, on-site physician, nursing care, social services, physical therapy, occupational therapy, recreational therapy, caregiver education, contracted providers in all specialties, nutrition, and much more.

P.A.C.E helps insure seniors can stay at home longer by working with them and their families to achieve the greatest level of health possible for as long as possible – seeking to improve the quality of life for its clients and their families.

P.A.C.E does have specific eligibility criteria which include: ■

Age 55 or older

Require care that would otherwise qualify them for admission into a nursing home ■ Able to live safely in the community with support ■ Live in Calhoun County ■

P.A.C.E is meeting an important need in our community and provides yet another quality and safe choice for seniors and their families. Is it right for you or your loved one? Let us help you find out by scheduling a visit to our center located at Burnham Brook Community Center.

You can set up an appointment Monday through Friday by calling us at (269) 441-9300 or visit our website www.mycentracare.com.

Mom isn’t who she wasrepeats She continually rep eats things

Mother

my from me. my physical & mental health. my peace-of-mind.

COMPREHENSIVE COMMUNITY-BASED OLDER ADULT SERVICES

When I needed your help... you were there.

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14316 Helmer Road South Battle Creek, MI 49015 Assisted Living LJ-0100075850

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W

hen asked, most older adults say that they want to live in their own community as long as possible. For those with chronic conditions and limited resources, this can be a challenge.

CentraCare is part of National PACE (Program of All In-clusive Care for the Elderly) and serves to meet

• • • •

Ensure safety in the home Promote wellness Focus on quality medical care Provide an opportunity for socialization • Support caregivers

CentraCare, located in Burnham Brook Community Center in Battle Creek, is committed to supporting older adults to remain in the community and to enhance their quality of life.

To find out if CentraCare is right for you or someone you love, call us at 269-441-9300 or 877-284-4071 toll free.

200 W. Michigan Ave., Ste. 103 | Battle Creek, MI 49017 269-441-9300 | 877-284-4071 toll free | www.mycentracare.com

(269) 969-2500

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the health care needs of frail adults 55 or older living in Calhoun County. Services are coordinated by the CentraCare team to:

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Senior Connection | March 27, 2011

Alzheimer’s & Dementia have taken

5

Chronic Disease

Public Enemy #1?

- Linda Frost, RN, Care Management Director

Region 3B Area Agency on Aging

Serving Our Community For

More Than A Century BATTLE CREEK’S FIRST...EST. 1866

Member

The crisis is clear: Chronic diseases are crushing health care. Much of the recent debate around health care and health care reform focus on the fact that as the population is aging we need to do a better job of managing chronic diseases that impact our seniors.

Chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, lung disease and stroke take a heavy toll on one’s health, but they also cost a staggering amount of money. A cost that neither you nor I as individuals

of disability and death in the United States.

We see the impact of chronic disease within our programs every day as we enroll and serve older adults who require assistance to remain at home. Many of our consumers have difficulty with activities of daily living like bathing, toileting, dressing, walking, and cooking because of the onset and previously poor management of a chronic disease. The CDC reports that 25% of people with chronic diseases have physical

nor our nation’s Medicare program can afford.

Unfortunately, the trends in terms of chronic disease are going in the wrong direction. We aren’t doing enough individually or collectively to get headed in a more positive direction. Consider the following from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: ■ Obesity increases the risk of developing conditions such as heart disease. Rates of obesity have more than doubled in recent years.

■ The average cost of health care for someone with one or more chronic disease is five times greater than someone without any chronic disease.

■ Of every $4 spent on healthcare, $3 relates to chronic disease – roughly $8,000 per person in America with a chronic condition.

What is even more alarming though is the human cost – this is always what makes me the most troubled. Seven out of every 10 deaths can be attributed to a chronic, and in many cases preventable, disease. Chronic diseases are also the leading causes

limitations which they would not normally have due to their conditions. The effects of these chronic conditions on quality of life are sometimes really hard to witness – folks living with extended pain and suffering and in some cases losing their ability to remain at home.

We know that chronic diseases costs the healthcare system billions of dollars each year – but there is a human cost as well. This is the trend that we’d like to see impacted. The Area Agency on Aging’s mission is to promote health, independence, and choice – chronic disease is our enemy in this mission, it fights against us as our wait lists and cost of services rise. Don’t get me wrong – we love our work and we love our participants. We just go through the same span of emotions as they do when we consider what could have been in terms of quality of life and longevity.

We want folks to NOT need us for a very long period of time.

BATTLE CREEK’S FIRST...EST. 1866 T. R. SHAW JR.

CHUCK STALLARD

2838 Capital Ave., S.W. Battle Creek, Michigan 49015-4016 205 N. Elizabeth St., Bellevue, Michigan 49021

(269) 979-3838

www.shawfuneralhome.com

Member

The Order of the Golden Rule

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It could be your mom, it could be your dad, it could be someone you love - the best

Senior Connection | March 27, 2011

friend you ever had.

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Do

One Thing

- Luann Sommers, Planning Manager Region 3B Area Agency on Aging

We all probably know someone with a chronic disease – your spouse has diabetes, your brother has heart disease, you recently beat cancer, your son has asthma. You’ve seen the articles in the media and in this publication about the cost of chronic diseases. You probably have heard that 75% of the United States’ $2 trillion spending on public and private health care went toward treatment of chronic disease.

The message we don’t hear as often is that most chronic diseases are incurable, often preventable, and frequently manageable. Here are the keys: Identify the disease early, improve your diet, commit to that exercise program, and follow your doctor’s orders.

It really is that simple – okay not simple, but doable especially if you consider the alternative – loss of independence and your ability to care for yourself following a stroke; a leg amputated

or loss of eye sight due to diabetes; limitations on your ability to travel, play with your grand kids or enjoy every day activities because of pulmonary artery disease or heart disease.

I know, I know – you’ve heard it before. I am saying it to myself as much as to you. But I’m hoping by saying it just one more time that today might be the day you turn that corner. So let me say it one more time. Think a little harder about your food choices today and every day. Find an activity that you enjoy and stick with it – walk that dog, walk that block, walk those stairs. Work with your doctor to know your risk factors and your numbers – then develop a plan to get those under control that are edging upward.

Awhile back there was an ad series that talked about doing one thing and then doing it again the next day. I guess that’s good advice for all of us.

Can you do one thing today and then one thing each of the next 364 days? Let’s try it together and see what impact it can make on our health – today and into the future.

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1..............................................................Flea Market and Antique Show 7............................................................................ Community Yard Sale 8.......................................................................................... Mother’s Day 14, 15.....................................................................Arts and Crafts Show 28, 29, 30................................................Flea Market and Antique Show

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Senior Connection | March 27, 2011

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7

Why I Sold My House &

Moved into a Senior Apartment - Jean Major

I lost my job in 2009 and I was struggling to make my house payments and keep my house up. I applied for Social Security and started drawing my Social Security at 62. One day I thought, “Why am I going through all of the stress of maintaining a house?” I had all of the maintenance to do and fixing things that needed repair. I hated the snow because of shoveling.

Summertime meant mowing. Both of these activities made my back hurt. It was expensive paying someone to do the upkeep of my home that I couldn’t do. When I lived at my house I came home and did nothing many nights. I was lonely in my house. So I made the decision to sell my house.

I went looking in Battle Creek for ap ar t men t s and I only looked at senior apartments. I wanted to be in a building with people my age.

I viewed all of the senior apartments in town and when I went to Westbrook (located at the old Community Hospital) I knew it was the one.

The apartments were huge compared to the other senior housing buildings in the community; the apartment I chose is 1103 square feet. They have dishwashers, garbage disposals and garbage pick up three times a week at your door as well as a security door. When I moved in it was freshly painted, newly carpeted; it looked brand new. The

apartment has big windows and it is so bright and warm feeling. Westbroook is very reasonable so you do not pay an arm and a leg for it.

While I was selling my house, I kept coming and looking at the apartments (they have different layouts) so I could find the one that fit what I was looking for. I got to know everyone who worked in the office and the maintenance man. We all became like family. I did this because, to tell you the truth, I was so afraid that it would be full when I could finally move in.

The day came when I sold my house (two years later). I was overjoyed. No more worries about my house. I was more than ready to move. I had not lived in an apartment for forty years but I was looking forward to less stress and worries. I moved everything into my apartment and I fell in love with Westbrook.

I have lived at Westbrook for eight months and every time I walk through the door I feel like

I have moved into a brand new house. I have met and made friends with a lot of people, I play bingo on Mondays and it only costs me $1.50 and I get prizes like Kleenex, cleaning supplies and other useful things. There is a potluck every month, game night on Tuesdays and Fridays, and a birthday party once a month. Lunch is Monday through Friday for $1.50 and served by Community Action. When you are lonely, you can just go down to the lobby and find someone to talk with.

My grandson, Josh (8 years old) just said to me last week that he liked my apartment better than my house. I asked him why and he said. “Grandma, you are more active, you have new friends and you are smiling all of the time.” If you would like to see a happy senior, come and see me at 501 at Westbrook and I can show you why I am so happy.

When you come to visit, tell them Jean sent you!

Honoring the achievements of your loved ones… are the cornerstones of healing after a loss.

Senior Connection | March 27, 2011

Honoring the life of your loved one means you value the relationship you shared.

We look forward to helping you decide how to celebrate that bond.

Together we can create a fitting tribute.

8

223 N. Bedford Rd. • Battle Creek • 269.965.5145 www.bachmanhebble.com LJ-0100078959

© 2011

Nursing Home Insurance

The Landscape is changing

Ways to PRUNE YOUR premiums

■

our rates will skyrocket as well,” such as John Hancock, Genworth Kozakiewicz says. and Bankers Life and Casualty, have asked state regulators for rate Millions of aging baby boomers increases of 30 percent or more. face a similar concern. Long-term Others have left the business. Earlier care insurance is supposed to protect this year, MetLife announced it will seniors and their families from the stop selling long-term care insurance. soaring costs of nursing home and The company said it will continue home-based health care. Increased to provide coverage to existing use of long-term care insurance policyholders. would also reduce the burden on In addition to health care hyperMedicaid, which accounts for 43 inflation, insurance companies are struggling with record low interest percent of the cost of nursing home rates, which have dragged down care, according to the Kaiser Family investment returns “Sustained Foundation. low interest rates are to the long But the same factors that have term care insurance industry what highlighted the need for long-term $4-a-gallon gas was to the SUV care insurance— a rapidly aging market,” says Jesse Slome, executive population, lengthening longevity director of the American Association and unpredictable health care for Long-Term Care Insurance, a costs—have made it increasingly professional organization for agents unprofitable for insurers. Some, who sell long-term care policies.

products, such as annuities and life insurance. Those companies are better able to withstand short-term losses in their long-term care policies, he says.

The biggest rate increases have been for older policies that provided no cap on the number of years they’d cover. Consumers can lower premiums by up to 39% a year by buying a policy that limits coverage to 3 years, he says.

- Sandra Block, Gannett Media

Kathy Kozakiewicz, 59, decided to buy long-term care insurance after her father-in-law was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s and waited 18 months until space opened at a local Veterans Affairs nursing home, during which time they were responsible for his care. Kozakiewicz and her husband were determined to spare their children from that experience.

But now, the Kozakiewiczes fear their insurance could become unaffordable. John Hancock, which has a contract with the U.S. Office of Personnel Management (OPM) to provide long-term care insurance for federal employees, recently asked state regulators for an average rate increase of 40 percent on most of its non-federal long-term care insurance policies. “This makes me worry when the 5 year deal that OPM struck with them has to be renegotiated, that

Opt For Time-Limited Benefits

■

■

■

Research The History Of Rate Increases

Ask insurers: When was your last rate increase, and how many increases have you had in the last 10 years? You can also get that information from your state’s department of insurance. Your state insurance department can also tell you if there have been a lot of complaints about them. To find your state’s insurance department, go to www.naic.org.

■

Long-term care insurance is extraordinarily complicated. There are no standard options you can compare on the Internet. Policies may cover nursing home care, assisted living, home care or a combination of services. Some will pay a family member to care for you; others require you to hire a certified health professional. Some policies will pay you a lump sum to use however you want, once you’re eligible for coverage.

Include A Waiting Period

Like a higher deductible on your car insurance, a 90-day waiting period will lower your premiums. Most people can rely on family and friends to help out until their coverage kicks in, he says. Also, if you require long-term care because of a stroke, broken hip or similar affliction, Medicare will typically cover you for the first 20 days.

Stick With Established Companies

You want an insurer that will be around at least as long as you will. Also, buy from companies that sell other insurance

Do The Research

■

Get Help

Policies also have different “triggers” that must transpire before your coverage kicks in. Generally, insurers require that you need assistance with at least two “activities of daily living (ADLs),” such as bathing, eating or walking. Unscrupulous insurers sometimes exploit ambiguity over ADLs to deny claims.Consult with an insurance agent or broker who specializes in long-term care insurance and can help you identify a policy that will fit your income and needs. Even then, you may want to have an attorney review your policy before you sign up.

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Senior Connection | March 27, 2011

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212 Winston Drive, Marshall, MI 49068 2 Heritage Oak Lane, Battle Creek, MI 49015

9

PA T H â–

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Personal ActionToward Health â–

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:

- Senior Health Partners

Chronic Disease Self-Management Workshops The Chronic Disease Self-Management Program (PATH) is a patient education program designed to help adults learn to better manage their chronic conditions.

Trained leaders meet with their groups for 2 ½ hours each week for six consecutive weeks.

Persons experiencing any type of chronic health condition and their significant others (or care givers) are also encouraged to attend. Although different chronic health conditions may have different physical impacts on a person’s body, they often cause similar problems related to activities of daily living, interactions with the health care system, communication with family and friends, and dealing with negative emotions such as fear, anxiety and depression.

PATH does not replace traditional patient education with the doctor or health professional; it is complementary to and reinforces such education.

In the program, participants obtain new information, learn new skills and abilities, and develop new ways to manage and cope with chronic health conditions.

Participants give and receive support from others who are experiencing similar health conditions. As well, they realize that they are not alone and the difficulties they are experiencing are normal.

Sessions are highly interactive, with emphasis on strategies to help individuals manage more effectively. Content includes skills mastery (accomplished through weekly contracting to do specific behaviors and through feedback) and modeling (most leaders themselves have a chronic condition). Leaders will frequently use group problem-solving strategies.

In Calhoun County, the P.A.T.H. Workshops are offered by Senior Health Partners. They are free and open to anyone living with a chronic illness or caring for someone who is chronically ill. For more information or to sign-up for a class, call 269/4410948.

How to develop an exercise program that is right for you â– Cognitive symptom management â– Healthy eating â– Breathing exercises â– Problem solving â– Communication skills with family, friends, and health care providers â– Medication use â– Dealing with emotions of chronic illness such as anger and depression â–

ILR ILR

INSTITUTE FOR LEARNING IN RETIREMENT INSTITUTE FOR LEARNING IN RETIREMENT

14420 Helmer Road South Battle Creek, MI 49015 www.HeritageAssisted.com

269-969-4000

Senior Connection | March 27, 2011

Fun Daytime Classes

10

Awarded

#1 Caregiver Award

Short Educational Trips

Look for us on Facebook!

for the state of Michigan (M.C.A.L.)

Meet New People

Kellogg Community College Regional Manufacturing Technology Center 405 Hill Brady Road, Battle Creek, MI 49037 PHONE E-MAIL ilr@kellogg.edu LJ-0100078966

14316 Helmer Road South Battle Creek, MI 49015

www.ReflectionsMemoryCare.com

269-969-2500

Owned and operated by Ganton Senior Communities, L.L.C.

Senior Diagnostic Center of

South CentralMichigan

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269-731-5775 ext. 137

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Medicare Certified Agency Services Include: Intermittent Skilled Nursing, Home Health Aides, Physical & Occupational Therapy, and Medical Social Work Services as ordered by your Physician

IN YOUR HOME

Home Health Support

io

600 South Lincoln St., Augusta, MI 49012 • SeniorHomeSupport.org

LJ-0100078980

■■■

Answered

The providers are: a gerontologist, social worker, occupational therapist and physician assistant. A medication review is performed.

■ Patient should bring Medicare/Medicaid card, supplemental insurance card, drivers license, list of medications (with dose), any medical tests performed within the past six months.

■ A report from the SDC team will be sent to your primary care physician unless you specify that you do not want them to receive the report.

■ A reminder call will be made to the patient or their designee prior to appointment time.

■ We often have Resident Doctors training at SDC, if you are not comfortable with them being present, we will have them refrain from working on a patients case.

■

If you’re like most seniors, a few gray hairs aren’t your only signs that you’re getting older.

When your overall health presents some gray areas, too, there’s a place you can go to get answers...The Senior Diagnostic Center of South Central Michigan.

The skilled professionals at The Senior Diagnostic Center consider all areas of your health...physical, social and behavioral. They are experts at developing practical treatment plans that can help you enjoy life to its fullest.

What’s more, in addition to being shared with your family doctor, it’s also shared with you and any loved ones you choose. This means no more gray areas when it comes to your health.

So, if you’re a senior over 50 or better, consider giving your healthcare plan a complete checkup. Make an appointment with The Senior Diagnostic Center today. We’re right in your own backyard...and as far as you have to go for answers.

Call 269/441-1136 SENIOR DIAGNOSTIC CENTER OF SOUTHCENTRAL MICHIGAN Located in the Behavioral Health Resources Building • 3630 Capital Ave, SW South of Beckley Road in the Brickyard Cree Medical Office Park

Senior Connection | March 27, 2011

269-731-5787 FREE Initial Assessment Services Include: Personal/Respite Care, 24-Hour Care, Shopping, Cooking, Cleaning, Laundry, Transportation, and Handyman Services

Senior Home Support & Home Health Support are Divisions of the Foundation for Behavioral Resources

There is no age limit for individuals to come to Senior Diagnostic Center (SDC). If individuals are having memory problems or multiple chronic diseases, they are appropriate, regardless of age.

■ Medicare, Medicaid and third party payers (BCBS, Etna, etc.) pay for the assessment.

If there is a small balance, we will set up a schedule for patients to pay. If patients cannot afford to pay, we do provide some charity care.

■ Referrals do not need to be made by a physician. Agencies, friends, family or the patient may make a referral.

■ We will work with the patient and caregivers to set up appointments that are convenient for their schedule and circumstances.

■ Family, friends or other caregivers may accompany the patient, if the patient desires.

■ The assessment is a series of three visits. All SDC staff specialize in older adult health.

■

When The Gray Needs More Than Just A Touch Up...

C

A UNIQUE PROGRA

Our senior years should be filled with the best of times including colorful memories. But, for some, aging brings gray areas and more complex issues that require assistance like illness, medications, and long-term care.

When the gray requires more than just a touch up, older adults now have a new resource available locally to help them assess their health care needs. It is called Senior Diagnostic Center of SouthCentral Michigan (SDC). A partnership among Battle Creek Health System and Summit Pointe, the Senior Diagnostic Center provides quality, comprehensive diagnostic testing close to home.

Senior Diagnostic Center offers help to senior patients and their families and their physicians by promoting seniors’ physical, cognitive, psychosocial, and spiritual wellbeing. This support is offered in a care plan that is shared with the patient and their physician.

If you or your health care provider would like more information about how the Senior Diagnostic Center can help you keep the bright colors in your life, call (269) 441-1136.

Most Frequently Asked Questions

11

Lassen 0100067309 2011 CTS SPORT SEDAN

2011 SRX LUXURY COLLECTION

LEASE FOR

LEASE FOR

388 39

$

PER MONTH 1

Senior Connection | March 27, 2011

ULTRA LOW-MILEAGE LEASE FOR QUALIFIED LESSEES

12

0

$

DUE AT SIGNING

0

$

SECURITY DEPOSIT DUE

Tax, title, license, dealer fees extra. Mileage charge of $.25/mile over 32,500 miles.

MONTHS

498 39

$

PER MONTH 1

MONTHS

ULTRA LOW-MILEAGE LEASE FOR QUALIFIED LESSEES

0

$

DUE AT SIGNING

0

$

SECURITY DEPOSIT DUE

Tax, title, license, dealer fees extra. Mileage charge of $.25/mile over 32,500 miles.

1. Example based on survey. Each dealer sets its own price. Your payments may vary. Payments are for a 2011 Cadillac CTS with an MSRP of $37,290. 39 monthly payments total $13,611. Payments are for a 2011 Cadillac SRX with an MSRP of $39,135. 39 monthly payments total $16,731. Option to purchase at lease end for an amount to be determined at lease signing. ALLY must approve lease. Take delivery by 4/1/11. Mileage charge of $.25/mile over 32,500 miles. Lessee pays for excess wear. Payments may be higher in some states. Not available with some other offers. Residency restrictions apply. 2. Length of contract limited. Some customers will not qualify. Take delivery by 4/1/11. See dealer for details. 3.

Visit www.cadillac.com/premium-care for details. 4. Whichever comes first. See dealer for details.

Lassen 0100067295 2011 ENCLAVE

OR

APR

CASH BACK REBATE

0295

$ $

DUE AT SIGNING

34

* 39 month lease, 10,000 miles per year, payment plus tax, title, licence and doc. Well qualified customers. Must qualify for GM loyalty and available rates. Take delivery by 4/1/11. See dealer for details.

/MONTH LEASE

Senior Connection | March 27, 2011

0

% $2,000

2011 ALL NEW REGAL CXL

13

NOW ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS Reverse Mortgage

Right Option?

- Saul Friedman, Gannett Media

Q: How Does A Reverse Mortgage Work?

A: A reverse mortgage is suited for older homeowners who have lots of equity but little cash and no other ways to increase their income. The amount you can borrow is tied to your age (you must be at least 62), the value of your home and the interest rate. The principal, interest and fees add up month to month. The loan is repaid when you sell the house, move out or die.

- Source: M&T Bank

• Income based community

• No application fee

• Heat & Water Included

• Personal Emergency System

• Pet Friendly

• Cable Ready

300 Carl Avenue, Battle Creek, MI 49037 www.pvm.org Call (269) 962-0605 for more information

LJ-0100075874

MONEY WORRIES? Feel like you’re losing control of your finances?

Worried about being scammed or overcharged?

Senior Connection | March 27, 2011

You’re not alone

14

Over 1000 seniors helped locally

Free service (if you qualify) Confidential

A nonprofit with over 44 years of trusted services www.yourguardian.org (866) 963-3253 x430 LJ-0100077716

Many older homeowners are just getting by — or worse. Retirement savings plans are down. Those 401(k)s have not grown enough to be counted on for retirement. Pension funds are hurting. But if you’re an older homeowner with sufficient equity to qualify, there could be some relief in a Home Equity Conversion Mortgage, also known as a reverse mortgage.

This type of mortgage allows homeowners 62 and older to convert part of the equity in their homes into tax-free cash without having to sell the home, give up the title, or take on a new monthly mortgage payment. It’s called a reverse mortgage because instead of the homeowner making a payment to the lender, the lender makes payments to the homeowner. The lender eventually gets its money back when the home is sold or the owner dies. Any excess cash made from the home sale is returned to the owner or the owner’s estate.

The Federal Housing Administration guarantees the mortgage, meaning the borrower is protected from losing the property, and the lender is protected from losing the money, if the value of the property declines below the worth of the loan. The proceeds may be taken as a line of credit or as payments. Few have taken advantage of it, partly because they don’t like to mortgage a home that’s free and clear, or they’re concerned about heirs.

For fiscal year 2009, which ended Sept. 30, there were 114,692 reverse mortgages done in the U.S. For Michigan, there were 2,088 reverse mortgages done in that same period.

Michael Gruley, president of First Financial Reverse Mortgage in Northville, said his firm has been getting more calls about reverse mortgages.

He said they have helped keep some seniors out of foreclosure.

“Many people facing foreclosures are seniors,” Gruley said. “There is no credit criteria, the reverse mortgage will pay off the lender so that problem goes away and they don’t have to ever make a payment while living in the house. The reverse mortgage frees them to stay in their home to only pay taxes and insurance.”

Still, declining home values means many don’t have enough equity to qualify. “We are able to help fewer people,” Gruley added.

Reverse mortgage resources U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development

202-708-1112, www.hud.gov AARP, 800-209-8085, www.hecmresources.org

National Reverse Mortgage Lenders Association www.reversemortgage.org

Here are the basics: You must be 62 or older, own the property outright or have sufficient equity and occupy the property as your principal residence.

■ All closing costs, insurance and interest may be financed in the mortgage. None of the proceeds is taxable. But all closing costs and interest are tax deductible when the loan is paid. The homeowner is not liable if the property declines below the worth of the loan because the lender is guaranteed against loss. However, the property must be maintained and the property taxes must be paid.

■ All applicants are to undergo counseling by an expert designated and licensed by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

■

Reverse mortgage loan comparison

Is a reverse mortgage right for you? Here are sample scenarios based on a home valued at $100,000, taking out the maximum amount, assuming interest rates on Aug. 10 of this year.

Age Of Borrower: 62 One-time lump sum: $50,195 Monthly payment for life: $207.20 Age Of Borrower: 72 One-time lump sum: $57, 495 Monthly payment for life: $277.76 Age Of Borrower: 82 One-time lump sum: $65,395 Monthly payment for life: $415.04 Age Of Borrower: 92 One-time lump sum: $72,695 Monthly payment for life: $859.54 In all scenarios, the borrower retains ownership of the property. Should the borrower die or sell the property, any residual equity would belong to the borrower or their designated heirs.

We’ve Got Your

Statistics Data from the:

2011

National Diabetes Fact Sheet

Total prevalence of diabetes

Total: 25.8 million children and adults in the United States—8.3% of the population—have diabetes.

Diagnosed: 18.8 million people Undiagnosed: 7.0 million people Pre Diabetes: 79 million people* New Cases: 1.9 million new cases of diabetes are diagnosed in people aged 20 years and older in 2010.

Age 65 years or older

10.9 million, or 26.9% of all people in this age group have diabetes. Race and ethnic differences in prevalence of diagnosed diabetes After adjusting for population age differences, 2007-2009 national survey data for people diagnosed with diabetes, aged 20 years or older include the following prevalence by race/ ethnicity: ■ 7.1% of non-Hispanic whites ■ 8.4% of Asian Americans ■ 12.6% of non-Hispanic blacks ■ 11.8% of Hispanics ■

Morbidity and Mortality ■

In 2007, diabetes was listed as the underlying cause on 71,382 death certificates and was listed as a contributing factor on an additional 160,022 death certificates. This means that diabetes contributed to a total of 231,404 deaths.

Complications

Heart Disease And Stroke

High blood pressure ■

In 2005-2008, of adults aged 20 years or older with self-reported diabetes, 67% had blood pressure greater than or equal to 140/90 mmHg or used prescription medications for hypertension.

Released Jan. 26, 2011

Diabetes is the leading cause of new cases of blindness among adults aged 20–74 years.

■ In 2005-2008, 4.2 million (28.5%) people with diabetes aged 40 years or older had diabetic retinopathy, and of these, almost 0.7 million (4.4% of those with diabetes) had advanced diabetic retinopathy that could lead to severe vision loss.

■

Kidney disease Diabetes is the leading cause of kidney failure, accounting for 44% of new cases in 2008.

■ In 2008, 48,374 people with diabetes began treatment for end-stage kidney disease in the United States.

■ In 2008, a total of 202,290 people with endstage kidney disease due to diabetes were living on chronic dialysis or with a kidney transplant in the United States.

■

Nervous system disease (Neuropathy) ■

About 60% to 70% of people with diabetes have mild to severe forms of nervous system damage.

Amputation More than 60% of nontraumatic lower-limb amputations occur in people with diabetes.

■ In 2006, about 65,700 nontraumatic lower-limb amputations were performed in people with diabetes.

■

Cost of Diabetes

$174 billion: Total costs of diagnosed diabetes in the United States in 2007 ■ $116 billion for direct medical costs ■ $58 billion for indirect costs (disability, work loss, premature mortality) After adjusting for population age and sex differences, average medical expenditures among people with diagnosed diabetes were 2.3 times higher than what expenditures would be in the absence of diabetes.

Factoring in the additional costs of undiagnosed diabetes, prediabetes, and gestational diabetes brings the total cost of diabetes in the United States in 2007 to $218 billion.

■ $18 billion for people with undiagnosed diabetes ■ $25 billion for American adults with prediabetes ■ $623 million for gestational diabetes ■

ASSISTED LIVING

Care Community Recognized for Making a Commitment to Quality Care Community in Battle Creek is a recipient of the Michigan Center for Assisted Living’s (MCAL) Quality Standard Seals for levels of Best Practice.

Care Community has been recognized at MCAL’s second level of the Quality Standard Seals. A multi-step application process took place in early 2010 to find homes committed to quality initiatives and improvement in their assisted living settings.

Linda Lawther, president/CEO of MCAL, said “I visit many assisted living homes in Michigan on a regular basis. It is an honor to be able to recognize the ones who are proving their ability and their drive to be the very best.”

In 2003, the MCAL Quality Standard Seals for Levels of Best Practice became an annual achievement opportunity for Michigan homes.

Michigan’s process was based on the National Center for Assisted Living (NCAL) Quality First Principles for Performance Excellence. Michigan’s program is designed to encourage participants to move through each of three steps with a goal for greater quality and excellence each year.

MCAL members applying for a level two seal develop a quality improvement program as well as have full staff commitment to the NCAL Quality First Pledge. Level two participants have also begun the basics of strategic planning.

The program was developed in a way that encourages homes to step up at least one level each year with a three to four-year plan.

Care Community is one of four homes in the state of Michigan receiving the level two seal in 2010.

MCAL is a statewide association of Housing with Services Communities, Homes for the Aged, Adult Foster Care and Independent Senior Housing Providers in Michigan, promoting the highest quality of person centered care and leadership principals. MCAL is also a resource for consumer education and information. You may contact MCAL by calling 517.627.1561 or by email at lindalawther@michcal.com.

(269) 968-3365

565 General Ave. • Springfield, MI

www.carecommunitybc.com LJ-0100075837

Senior Connection | March 27, 2011

In 2004, heart disease was noted on 68% of diabetes-related death certificates among people aged 65 years or older.

■ In 2004, stroke was noted on 16% of diabetesrelated death certificates among people aged 65 years or older.

■ Adults with diabetes have heart disease death rates about 2 to 4 times higher than adults without diabetes.

■ The risk for stroke is 2 to 4 times higher among people with diabetes.

■

Blindness

CARE COMMUNITY

15

Booming Into Bold Age

Get ting the Most Out of Get ting Older - Tamera Nielsen

For the Battle Creek Enquirer

We can’t turn back time ...

to when our tummies were toned, our minds were sharper and our hair was fuller – or even visible. But we can strut into old(er) age with a bit more moxie and feel well, despite the inevitable changes and challenges. While some of us choose plastic surgery, spa treatments and other products to slow or reverse the aging process, here are some alternatives to consider that just may be more affordable, less invasive and easier to implement. Let’s face it; living through winters in Michigan can turn the most optimistic of folks into grumbling, weather-beaten bores. Here are a few tips to make the booming cold weather a bit more tolerable and maybe even joyful.

BATTLE CREEK TRANSIT CITY OF BATTLE CREEK • 339 W. MICHIGAN AVE. P.O. BOX 1717 • BATTLE CREEK, MI 49016-1717

Senior Connection | March 27, 2011

LJ-0100075867

What is Tele-Transit?

16

Tele-transit service is door to door public transportation for Battle Creek area residents. For more information please visit our website or call the number below.

bct

BATTLE CREEK TRANSIT

Visit www.battlecreekmi.gov/living or call (269) 966-3474

The World Famous

Glenn Miller Orchestra

C

BRENDA MOORE HOMES

are

Private Care for the Elderly Our Home/Your Home

25 Years Experience Makes the Difference

In a Spring Mood

517.278.6029 www.Tibbits.org

LJ-0100078605

April 16 • 7 pm Tickets $28 • Members $26 Tibbits Opera House Coldwater, MI 49036

BRENDA MOORE, R.N. (269) 965-0494 CERTIFIED GERONTOLOGY

LJ-0100078540

1. spend time alone

No matter how bust, tapped, exhausted or over-committed you may be, always make time for you. Schedule ‘you’ time each day.

Five or 10 minutes of privacy, quiet and time alone with absolutely no interruptions can ease tension, give you clarity of mind, rejuvenate a weary spirit and give a sense of relief. A calmer, happier you makes for a younger you.

3. invest in a S.A.D.D. light Position it in a place where you spend the majority of your time.

Try it for a couple of weeks. You may be surprised at its effects.

6. candles, infusers & scents

4. stretch and exercise in public

Yes, it sounds strange. But consider doing booty crunches while you’re driving. It keeps your endorphins and does your body good, too! Stretch often. It eases mental and physical tension and boosts your endorphins as well. You can stretch at your desk, or even in the checkout line at the store. If anyone gives you peculiar If you are feeling a bit of malaise, a tad looks, smile – broadly. blue, or just feel like you need a jump-start, consider altering your routine. Something as simple as taking a different route to work or altering your gym visit can make a positive impact. Give yourself a change White, red, purple, blue- whatever of scenery for an hour– or maybe a few your favorite twinkle light color days. The change just may spur a change happens to be, chose it and hang of mind. Try switching your diet for a week them up all over your home or or two. These are easy changes that can maybe in a silk plant or tree. It’s have a major impact on your well-being– amazing how lighting can alter your state of mind, ignite your creativity physically and mentally. and boost your sprit.

2. change up your routine, environment or diet

5. twinkle lights year ‘round

Our Olfactory sense is the strongest sense of memory. So invest a few cents in scents. Keep a scented candle burning at home or office. Use scented body lotion or essential oils.

Burn your favorite scent in an infuser.

Remember the smell of freshly baked bread or cookies and how it makes you feel? The same concept applies to keep your spirit and mind motivated.

7. music to move your spirit Music holds the power to motivate and evoke a multitude of emotions. Choose your music wisely and use it often to help you stay healthy in mind and body. If you exercise at home, play music that raises your spirit and try moving to it freely. If you need to relax, play something that soothes your soul.

8. schedule joyful time every day

Impossible? Hardly. Hop online or pick up a local publication and look at the events around town.

Here’s a few ideas that may elicit joyfulness: take an art class, listen to live music, go to a poetry reading, have coffee (or cocktails) with a friend, play a musical instrument, walk in the park, watch a favorite movie or indulge in a decadent treat. The list is endless. The choice is yours.

Visit Our Facility to Experience the Difference

LJ-0100075856

111 Evergreen Rd., Battle Creek, MI 49015 Phone: (269) 969-6110, Fax: (269) 969-6119 www.evergreenscc.com

Senior Connection | March 27, 2011

Providing Post Acute Rehab Restoring Health Recovering Abilities Rejoicing in Life

17

Building Trust

Know Where toAsk for Assistance - Carl Gibson Calhoun County Senior Services

Choices, choices, choices, we are overloaded with choices in our daily lives. Whether it’s 47 brands of mustard at the store, 40+ Medicare Prescription Drug Plans, every auto insurance company on television talking about how much you can save by switching, all the pizza and fast food flyers in the mail, hearing aide devices from $20 ads in the Sunday paper to $1,000 off coupons in the mail, it’s all too confusing.

And the more choices we have does not mean our lives are any better. It can be an almost daunting job to sort out the fakery and fraudulent from the real and beneficial. Each product source is trying harder, louder, splashier, and repetitively in more ways to get your attention, to get you to

buy, to get you hooked as a customer, whether you may need the product or not.

Do you remember the “good ol’ days” when life was simpler, choices were more in our control, and the doctor was on a first name basis? Well I remember some of those days as well: a hand pump in the kitchen bringing up cool water from the cistern fed from rain water and eaves troughs; a ringer-washing machine that required carrying pails of dirty wash water out to the yard; a party-line phone in which 5-6 neighbors could listen in to your exploits; a wood stove in the living room before central heat; backyard tracks in the snow to the outhouse, etc. B/W television might be found on a couple local stations—remember those ‘rabbit ears?’; the radio always gave the farm report each morning; the noon whistle could be heard two miles away; and you had to be careful to push the choke back in on your car or tractor after cranking it for a while and it could chug to life.

We’ve Got Your

It’s like when I think back on my four years in the Air Force; the further away I get the better they a r e remembered. The same with the good old days; they weren’t so g o o d when in the middle of the struggles of life. But still, too many choices of the same general item nowadays are not really helpful either.

Where does an older adult go to get help or ask questions when confronted with some seemingly good, and almost too good, choices to select from?

You can almost bank on a paraphrase of the old line that if something sounds too good to be real, it probably is not real. It is often a scam or hook to lure you into a wrong decision for your situation.

Here are some places you can go to get the information for making better choices: Health Fairs for Seniors and their Caregiving Family Members: A relative newcomer onto the playing field

Senior Connection | March 27, 2011

Connection 18

Natural Foods

Senior Services

Wednesday Senior Citizen Day 10% off all items Everyday Senior Discount on Supplements 10% off Sun: 11-5, Mon–Thur: 9-8, Fri: 9-4 (winter) Fri: 9-6 (summer) Sat. CLOSED

www.avnf.com • 269-979-2257 5275 BECKLEY RD

Senior Center

LJ-0100079366

- Foster Grandparent Program - Congregate Dining Sites - Supplemental Food

“We’re dedicated to your Healthful Living”

1418 Cooper Street P.O. Box 944, Albion, MI 49224 Phone 517-629-3842 | Fax 517-629-5827 www.forksseniorcenter.org

LJ-0100075712

LJ-0100079386

- Home Delivered Meals - Minor Home Repair & Utility Assistance - Senior Transportation

1-877-422-2726

Senior Health

LJ-0100078709

879 East Michigan Street, Marshall, MI 49068 Phone: 269.781.4251 • Fax: 269.781.8420

is the 2nd Annual Marshall Area Senior Health Fair. With a focus on the services and resources that support older adults in the Marshall, Albion, and surrounding communities. It is Thursday, April 7 from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm at the Marshall Middle School, 100 E. Green St. in Marshall. A large number of local vendors will be showcasing the services that can make life easier and more stable for older adults wanting to live safely and independently in their own residence. These are the local professionals that assist people each day with financial planning, selecting health equipment and services, finding transportation, supporting active aging, educating the mind, and living actively and safely. For more information, see the ad in this paper, or call Calhoun County Senior Services at 269-78190846. Door Prizes on the hour.

The Spring Health Fair sponsored by the Senior Provider Network Group is scheduled for April 26th from 10:00AM to 2:00PM at Airway Oxygen, 595 North Ave in Battle Creek. For more information, call Pegge Huntley at 269-9694000. Always an informative session, there are a number

of speakers scheduled on estate planning, long term care insurance, housing options, and innovation in medical equipment. It is a valuable day filled with information, food, and door prizes.

stopping by and saying they are from a government agency or banking institution. (Always question this latter bunch, particularly if you made no contact with them in the first place.)

Trusted Sources to Call

Calhoun County Office of Senior Services

If you would rather make a call, try these places for questioning suspected Frauds and Scams, determining whether some ad or phone call is legitimate, to report suspected identity theft, que s tioning t he ‘free government s p o n s o r e d c e ll phones,’ or checking the background of someone calling or

269-781-0846 in Marshall

Area Agency on Aging, Rgn 3-B

269-966-2450 in Battle Creek

Guardian Finance and Advocacy

269-963-3253 in Battle Creek

It is only wise stewardship of your resources to question, document and follow-up if something is too good to be real. There is no shame in making a mistake, but any loss only gets bigger if the fraudulent activity goes unreported.

Feel free to stop in at one of the health fairs and meet the trustworthy companies and community members who support our seniors everyday. Or call one of the other numbers above to ask questions about services with which you have no experience. Having few choices is not always easy, but having too many choices can also be confusing.

For more information about these and other Senior Millage funded services, call the

Calhoun County Office of Senior Services

(269) 781-0846

Our purpose is to make your life worth living,with dignity and caring. www.calhouncountymi.gov/seniorservices

The Eaton Area Senior Center 804 S. Cochran Charlotte, MI 48813 517-541-2934

May 10-15

Art programs enrich and enhance the lives of older adults through: • Recreation • Self Expression • Communication • Socialization • Intellectual Stimulation • Emotional Well-Being • Physical Benefits

(269) 962-9511 or (269) 964-9680 www.artcenterofbattlecreek.org

LJ-0100077490

Goodwill is in the process of obtaining its TS16949 certification.

Making the Transition from QS-9000 to ISO/TS 16949 The registration scheme includes third party auditor qualifications and common rules for consistent global registration.

San Antonio,TX - $779 per person double occupancy.

May 25

Mackinac Island - $139 per person. Included ferry to the Island, taxi to the Grand Hotel and Buffet Lunch.

Daniel O’Donnell - $138 per person lunch included.

June 5-10

Savannah - $699 per person double occupancy.

3 dinners including Lady & Sons’s.

September 16-26

Las Vegas & the Grand Canyon - $995 per person double occupancy.

October 14 – 22

June 14-23

Amtrak to California - $1629 per person double occupancy.

Mediterranean Cruise starts at $2,699.

November 7-19

July 11 – 15

New York City - $659 per person hotel in Times Square.

LJ-0100079375

August 25

Caribbean & Panama Canal starts at $2,299.

Join us for an affordable trip or two. Call 517-541-2934 for more information.

Marshall Area Senior Health Fair Thursday, April 7th, 2011 from 9:00am to 1:00pm at Marshall Middle School 100 East Green Street, Marshall, MI This event will showcase information and services of special interest to older adults and caregiving family members.

This event is brought to you by: MARSHALL HOUSE APARTMENTS Gentle Hands Powerful Voices

Goodwill Industries of Central Michigan’s Heartland

4820 Wayne Road • Battle Creek, MI 49037 • (269) 964-9455 • www.goodwillcmh.org LJ-0100078722

Call (269) 781-0846 For More Information

Sponsoring Partners: Marshall Community Foundation, Maplewood of Marshall, Fountain Clinic, Schroeder Degraw PLLC, Forks Senior Center, Family Health Center and Marshall Area Chamber of Commerce.

Senior Connection | March 27, 2011

Some of the benefits of the IATF registration scheme include: • Improved product and process quality • Additional confidence for global sourcing • Reassignment of supplier resources to quality improvement • Common quality system approach in the supply chain for supplier/subcontractor development and consistency • Reduction in multiple 3rd party registrations

August 6-13

Branson , MO - $750 per person double occupancy.

8 shows, 9 meals.

19

Chronic Disease part 2

The Cost isToo High

20

the cost of chronic disease for our Medicare system.

With the passage of the Affordable Care Act, there have been many articles, surveys, and reports on the cost of health care in the United States.

S till many others have looked at the impending impact of boomers on the Medicare system.

I’ve read through a lot of the material and find the numbers down right frightening.

I guess in reality this is a good news – bad news sort of story. The good news is that we are living longer. We have decreased the mortality from

LJ-0100075460

Senior Connection | March 27, 2011

- Karla Fales, CEO

Region 3B Area Agency on Aging

In Part 1 of my article on The Cost of Chronic Disease, I talked about the personal cost of chronic disease – namely loss of life and increased cost of care. However, there are other considerations related to the cost of chronic diseases that deserves some of our attention – in this case relative to

strokes as an example by 13% since 1995. Alzheimer’s use The Fitness Loft, since I know their prices. A senior disease mortality is also decreasing. Heart disease at membership is only $110 a year. Not yet 55 years of one time accounted for more than 40% of the mortality age – the cost is $180 a year. That’s right – for one year. of adults, that number is now closer to 25% - 222 deaths Compare this to the cost of care for just the first 30 days per 100,000 deaths reported. Even chronic lung disease, following a stroke - $13,019 for MILD cases. Diabetes the fourth leading cause of death of adults, has seen a as well - there is predicted to be a 53% increase in decrease of 1.5% per year and that rate is expected to incidence rate of diabetes between 2003 and 2023. We continue through at least 2030. So I guess we and the currently spend about 10% of our health care dollars medical community deserve a little pat on the back for on the overall direct costs related to diabetes – that’s about $92 billion a year if you are doing the math by our efforts – maybe.

So you ask, where is the bad news? The bad news total population. In 2020, that number is projected to be closer to $200 billion. is that the cost of The most concerning part increasing our life spans So my plan for helping out Medicare of the cost of care surveys is astronomical and for current and future (I hope) that have come out since the is beginning to raise generations? debate on the Affordable Care questions and concerns Act last year is that Medicare among many fields – currently bears or will bear a medicine, ethics, religion significant amount and even, in terms of these costs. of personal In 2007 decision alone, m a k i n g . I ’m Medicare cer tainly not reported going to delve into a l l on in-patient of the various arguments that could be raised, especially spending $1.4 billion related to the ethics of living longer. However, I do services related to Diabetes. For heart disease, the price believe that another valid point can be made from the tag to Medicare was $24 billion. reality of these costs and their potential impact on I’m not a politician and am probably in no position to Medicare and more to the point of this article. That is? make or encourage major changes in how our country Disease is expensive, prevention is cheaper and reaps spends its money. Yikes, I’m not that daring! I’m also not a big fan of starting arguments over topics like health us greater rewards.

Okay, a brief ethical jaunt relative to quality of life. I care reform, Medicare spending, and medical ethics. have only had a few times in my life to sit and ponder on However, I am willing to do my part and help others the idea of how I want to live near the end of my life. I do, contribute to the greater good, so to speak. however, find myself talking about this frequently with So my plan for helping out Medicare for current and my many seasoned friends. I remember one particularly future (I hope) generations? Prevention, prevention, feisty lady who told me (excuse the expletives), “I plan prevention! I guess you could say I am supportive of on fighting like hell to stay healthy so I don’t the many components of the new health care laws have to fight like hell to stay alive.” Her point that support prevention as a viable strategy to address is valid – the amount of time we invest in issues like chronic disease and life-style illnesses. I can staying healthy and warding off disease get behind and in front of that. is well spent. Consider if you will the So if you are as concerned as I am average cost of a gym membership. I’ll about the cost of health care, probably the only real tangible thing you and I can do is not become one of the contributors to that cost. I’m willing to do my part (see my Part I article on this topic). What about you?

“My therapist got me walking again—in the comfort of my own home.”

Prevention,

Prevention,

Prevention!

Kevan Peet is fully recovered from his knee replacement surgery thanks to physical therapy delivered by Borgess specialists. After receiving home therapy for several days each week, Kevan was able to regain his mobility, flexibility and strength.

If you or a loved one could benefit from skilled home care, trust your care to the area’s original and most experienced provider—Borgess Visiting Nurse & Hospice. From skilled nursing and specialized heart and wound care to rehabilitation services, and a complete range of home health services, the Borgess advantage includes:

Visit homehealth.borgess.com for information or call (800) 343.1396 to schedule a free consultation.

* Source: Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services for CY 2009.

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Senior Connection | March 27, 2011

• Positive patient outcomes that exceed the national average in 12 of 12 categories* • Nurses, therapists, hospice care and home health aide services throughout southwest Michigan • Medicare, Medicaid and Blue Cross Blue Shield accepted • Accredited by Community Health Accreditation Program (CHAP)

A member of Ascension Health®

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Sam is 54 years old.

His youngest daughter just went off to college. Now he’s searching for a big screen tv to turn her room into a sports lover’s paradise.

Do you know what sparks Sam? (We do.)

And with our audience expertise and pinpoint targeting, we can help your business reach more Boomers like Sam.

Senior Connection | March 27, 2011

Find out today how Enquirer Media’s multi-media solutions — enhanced by partnerships with companies like Yahoo! — make us the local leader in digital marketing.

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Connect with your best customers at the best time.

Call Emily Webb at 269-966-0587 today!

Chronic Disease

Common, Preventable & Manageable - Linda Grap, Senior Health Partners

A community partnership of Battle Creek Health System, Area Agency on Aging, CentraCare and Summit Pointe Chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, stroke, cancer and arthritis are among the most common and preventable of all health problems in the United States.

At least 1 in every 2 adults has a chronic illness.

1. Exercise

More than one-third of all adults do not meet the recommended guidelines for physical activity. If you are just getting starting, begin with small changes. Try walking for 10 minutes at a time or doing light exercises in your chair. Continue to increase your exercises to 30 minutes per day over time.

Question: What is the best type of exercise?

Answer: The one you like and will keep doing.

Increase your consumption of fruits and vegetables to at least 5 servings a day. Reduce fat in your diet. Eat less red meat and more whole grains. Drink water – lots of it.

What can you do to keep yourself from becoming part of the statistics?

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer deaths and cigarette smoking causes almost all cases. Smoking causes cancer of the larynx, mouth and throat, esophagus, bladder, kidneys, pancreas, cervix and stomach. Avoid second-hand smoke as well. It’s deadly.

3. Quit smoking

Preventing chronic illness is easier and costs a lot less than having one.

If you already have a chronic illness, there are still actions you can take to improve your health and live more of the life you choose.

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$

Furnace Safety & Efficiency Check 964-HEAT (4328)

HEATING

HODGSON COOLING

FUNERAL HOME, INC. Trusted Service for 75 years

PREVENT INCONVENIENT BREAKDOWNS Save Money & Have Peace of Mind

Offering Traditional and Contemporary Funeral and Cremation Services.

*Offer good on all natural gas furnace brands. Exp: 5/1/2011

Pre-planning and Medicaid Assistance Available.

“It’s not the years in your life It’s the Life in your years”

Richard L. Royal

3rd Generation Owner/Manager

200 Westbrook Court Marshall, MI 49068 (269) 781-4997 LJ-0100078543

www.maplewoodofmarshall.com

281 Upton Avenue at Dickman Road (Next to Seelye Wright Kia)

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(269) 964-3706

Senior Connection | March 27, 2011

Don’t Wait. Get Your Furnace Checked Today!

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Weigh the risks and benefits. Some research has shown benefits in the consumption of limited amounts of red wine. On the other hand, a large number of studies show strong evidence that alcohol increases your risk of liver cancer, breast cancer and colon cancer.

2. Eat right

According to the Centers for Disease Control, 7 out of 10 deaths each year are from chronic disease with heart disease, cancer and stroke accounting for more than 50% of those deaths.

There are four ways you can reduce your chances of developing a chronic illness or, if you already have a chronic illness, four ways to improve your ability to function.

4. Use alcohol wisely or not at all

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Helping you to a healthier life.

Accepting New Patients*

Mary Ellen Benzik, MD Senior Connection | March 27, 2011

Family Medicine *18 years of age or older

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Amanda Henry-Minor, DO

Joel Smith, PA-C

Internal Medicine

Internal Medicine

Evening appointments available on Mondays and Wednesdays

(269) 969-6145 MERCY COMMUNITY PHYSICIANS LJ-0100072390

632 North Avenue