PrimeTime Magazine April 2015

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rhode island

Apr i l 2015

spring

home After the Ice Dams

recovering f r o m

a

harsh winter common sense

renovations

Color

c h a n g e yo u r o o m c h a n g e yo u r m o o d

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April 2015

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Pr i m e Ti m e April 2015 1944 Warwick Ave. Warwick, RI 02889 401-732-3100 FAX 401-732-3110 Distribution Special Delivery PUBLISHERS Barry W. Fain, Richard G. Fleischer, John Howell MARKETING DIRECTOR Donna Zarrella donnaz@rhodybeat.com Editor/ Creative Director Linda Nadeau lindan@rhodybeat.com WRITERS Michael J. Cerio, Jessica Selby, Tim Forsberg, Elaine M. Decker, Joe Kernan, Mike Fink, Meg Chevalier, Kerry Park, Kathy Tirrell, ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVES Donna Zarrella – donnaz@rhodybeat.com Lisa Mardenli, Janice Torilli, Suzanne Wendoloski, Alex Viscusi

springhomeimprovement 4

Renovating your home to accommodate a senior parent

6 After the Ice Dams

Home repairs after the harsh winter

8 Raise your homes value

Simple improvements for a big impact

8

Repairing Screens and Ceillings

Step-by-Step instruction

9

Clearing the Clutter

Classified ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVE Sue Howarth – sueh@rhodybeat.com

PRODUCTION Matt Bower, Brian Geary, Lisa Yuettner

A Joint Publication of East Side Monthly and Beacon Communications.

Make Room for Mom

11 Smart Renovating

A new bath for now and the future

12 Color and Mood

Paint Brush for a chance to win a

25

$

00

Gift Certificate to

Color your room without paint

18 Rightsizing

Is a condo right for you?

professional Prospective

Your Home.................................................9 Your Taxes................................................20

Senior issues

Alzheimer’s Association..................24 Long Term Care....................................25

Food & Drink

Delicious and Nutritious.................10

LIFESTYLES

Put some fun in your Spring!.......17 Retirement Sparks..............................19 What Do You Fink...............................21 Don Fowler’s Spring Entertainment......................22

Which color will give your room the mood your after

PrimeTime Magazine is published monthly and is available at over 400 locations throughout Rhode Island. Letters to the editor are welcome. We will not print unsigned letters unless exceptional circumstances can be shown.

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April 2015

PrimeTime |

b y M ichael C eri o

Renovating your home to accommodate a senior parent

Make Room for Mom (& Dad)

Though the calendar says April, there are still enough mounds of snow to conjure up memories of January. But it can’t stay forever, right!

As Rhode Islanders dream of warmer temperatures, green grass, and the inevitable arrival of what we consider to be the “real” spring, many have also begun to turn their attention to planning home improvement projects. Lord knows I have a list that I can’t wait to tackle; some new, and others that didn’t make the cut last year.

Whether you’re a senior capable of taking on some simple improvements aimed at making your home safer for you or a loved one, or you’re a person planning to welcome an aging parent to live with you, we’ve put together some useful tips and project ideas to help you along on the way.

There are many reasons why an aging adult may decide to move in with a family member. Perhaps they’re recovering from a stroke or procedure, or have other health-related concerns, such as arthritis, diminishing vision or mobility.

Or perhaps it’s simply old age and a desire to live in a familiar environment; not yet ready for an assisted living or nursing home.

For me—and reflected in this column a few times in the recent past—little is more important than helping a senior remain living as independently as possible if that’s their wish. But in that process, and as needs change, it’s just as important to properly adapt your home to make the transition as seamless as possible.

According to the United States Department of Health and Human Services, more than 1.5 million Americans over age 65 are treated in emergency departments because of falls each year, with more than 12,000 dying as a result of their injuries. As you age, things in the home that were once of limited concern become more immediate hazards. These hazards can be found in every room of one’s home, but can also be easy to identify and address.

The most common room in the home for a potential fall is the bathroom. Since most bathrooms feature tiled floors, they

quickly become slippery after a shower or bath. For all seniors, it’s important to create a steady surface around each area in the bathroom that’s frequently used; the toilet, sink, and course, the bathtub. Some of the ways you can accomplish this include: • Install anchored grab bars beside your toilet and also in your tub or shower. These safety solutions are reasonably priced and easy to install. There are even portable medical grade suction bars available that are not only easy to install, but remove the need to drill holes in your wall or tile.

• Inspect any rugs on your bathroom floor to ensure they feature non-slip backing that keeps them from sliding out of place. If your rug moves too easily as you walk across it, replace it with a more secure rug, or install special doublesided along the edges to hold it in place.

• Consider purchasing a shower seat (permanent or portable) and installing a hand-held showerhead, allowing you the option to shower while sitting down, or sit if you need a break from standing for long periods of time.

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Bedrooms & family rooms are often spaces in the home where we spend the majority of our time. They also pose their own unique dangers as we accumulate items, move things around, and become content with a room’s arrangement because, “that’s how the room has been for years.” In this instance, change is good, especially if it provides the added comfort of better safety.

• Do you have a clear path in and out of the room? If not, and before you consider getting rid of any furniture, ask a family member or friend to re-arrange the room for you. Pay close attention to making clear paths that are at least 4 feet wide.

• Look around and take note of how many electrical wires (lamps, phones, television, etc.) are exposed and may pose a tripping hazard. Try to bind wires together with zip ties and secure them to the base of the wall to keep them out of the way. If you find you still have exposed cords or need to use an extension cord, contact an electrician and have a another outlet or two installed.

Wrapping up our tips on how to make your home safer or prepare for an older adult to move in brings us to the kitchen and steps and stairs. While falls in the bathroom may be most common, in-

cidents on the stairs pose a serious risk due to the height and trajectory in which one can fall and become injured.

Likewise, the kitchen poses its own set of unique risks, and the numbers don’t lie.

According to a report by the Federal Emergency Management Agency, people over the age of 65 are 2.5 times more likely to get hurt in the kitchen than those who are younger.

April 2015

home improvement

Saint Elizabeth Community Where RI seniors come first

Saint Elizabeth Home

Short-term rehab and long-term care East Greenwich: 471-6060

A sturdy stepstool that features an upper bar to hold on to for extra stability is great for out of reach items.

• While all homes should feature a handrail on one side of a stairway, seniors can benefit from a handrail on both sides, providing for better balance. If you have just one handrail, ask a family member or friend to help you install a second one, ensuring that both are as long as the entire length of the stairs.

• Make sure your stairway is well-lit. If the stairway has only a single light switch (whether at the top or bottom of the stairs), have an electrician install a second switch so you’re never faced with going up or down the stairs without a light. Consider special light switches that glow, so you can quickly identify which operates the stairway light.

• In the kitchen, if you find yourself frequently reaching for items on high shelves, consider rearranging the items you use most often by bringing them down to a lower shelf. A rule of thumb is keep things you use most regularly as waist level. And, if you must use a stepstool—NEVER use a chair—make sure it’s securely balanced and has an upper bar to hold onto while you climb. This is another item found easily as your local hardware store.

• Always keep a fire extinguisher easily accessible and make sure everyone in the home is familiar with how to use it. You may also want to investigate automatic shut-off devices. Some may be pricey, but others, like an automatic shut-off toaster, can be as little as $30. Regardless, I’m sure we can all agree that peace of mind is priceless.

It’s human nature to be nervous about adapting your long-time home as you and a loved one age, your needs and abilities changing in the process. It’s also understandable to be nervous about an aging family member moving in—how will it affect the routine of your household, will your love on adapt comfortably, and are you ready are all valid concerns.

At the same time, it’s important to remember that no senior ever wants to feel like they’ve become a burden for a loved one. More appropriately, they want to continue being able to do their everyday tasks, sometimes just needing to make adjustments in the process, and live their lives on as close to their own independent terms as possible.

And with the right preparation, safety measures and products, and open communication about what one is able to do on their own, everyone can acclimate themselves to the changes while ensuring the end result is a positive one—helping your loved one maintains a safe and independent lifestyle.

Saint Elizabeth Manor

Short-term rehab and long-term care Bristol: 253-2300

Saint Elizabeth Court Affordable assisted living Providence: 490-4646

Cornerstone Adult Services

Daily support for seniors Warwick, Bristol, Coventry, and Little Compton Memory Care Center Warwick: 739-2844

Saint Elizabeth Place

Affordable apartments for seniors and mobility impaired Providence: 273-1090

Saint Elizabeth Terrace

Affordable apartments for seniors Warwick: 739-7700 Saint Elizabeth Community offers a full spectrum of care and services for older adults in Rhode Island, ensuring they receive the right care in the right place at the right time. To learn how we can help you or someone you love, call us at 471-6060 or one of the numbers above.

www.stelizabethcommunity.org www.facebook.com/SaintElizabethCommunity A non-profit, nonsectarian 501(c)(3) charitable organization and CareLink partner.

April 2015

PrimeTime |

After the Ice Dams

b y J essica S elby

This winter left many homeowners with water damage. Now what?

The snow that was three plus feet deep This type of weather creates the “soon your lawn has meltted and the glaciers called Perfect Storm” for ice dams to that formed in your gutters has thawed, a form. Just ask Ericka Owens, a home welcomed sign of spring. owner in East Greenwich. (pictured The sentiment was fairly consistent above) She had ice dams that formed in this winter…“What a mess”… and the her gutters and stretched nearly 12 feet common thread that seemed to tie everydown to the ground. one’s scenario together was “ice dams.”

“Everywhere I went people were talkAs much as you would like to eradiing about the ice dams on their house cate the image from your very recent and the water damage inside their homes memory, it’s likely hard to forget about but we really hadn’t seen much happenthe icicles that stretched from nearly eving at our house so I thought we were safe ery roof line in the state to the ground. and then, like two weeks later, I started to House after house, the problem was the see the water damage come through on same, ice built up in the gutters forming our ceilings and walls,” Owens said. “It mountains on the edges of rooftops betwasn’t really pouring in where I needed ter known as ice dams. buckets, but all of a sudden there were According to Andrey Belov, owner of these great big brown stains on the ceilBelov Roofing and Siding Company, ice ings throughout the house. Just feel the Lucille & Alan Monacchio of Johnston show damage to dams form when the snow on the upper walls there too; they are soft, wet and part, usually the warmer part of the roof, mushy.” their home from ice dams. (photos by Jessica Selby) melts and the water runs down the roof Owens said that she immediately slope underneath the snow blanket. called her insurance company as well as He said that “when melted water reaches the edge of the roof, which is ususeveral roofing companies to address the problems. She said that the roofing ally colder than the upper portion of the roof, the water refreezes forming the ice companies that she called told her that there were waiting lists that stretched dams on the edges and overhangs of the roof.” three weeks long and that a steam company quoted her more than $5,000 to According to Belov, the most severe ice dams happen after massive snow fall steam the ice dams away but wouldn’t “remove the more than 3-feet of snow followed by freezing temperatures, which was a regular occurrence throughout from her roof.” the months of February and the very beginning of March. Just look at the NaThe insurance company, however, she said, was a bit more helpful. They sent tional Weather Service reports that indicate that more than 31 inches of snow an adjuster who came to assess the damage and advise her of what to do next, fell at T. F. Green Airport as of the first week in March, which beat the previous she said. record of 30.9 inches in 1962. NBC 10s Chief Meteorologist Mark Searles also “Just a few days after I called, the insurance company sent an adjuster to documented on the news channel’s website that the temperatures across the state the house, he said that the company flew him up from Florida and that he had had not reached above 40 degrees since midway through the month of January. looked at hundreds of houses in this area many with even more damage than my

| PrimeTime

April 2015

home improvement house,” Owens said. “He had a meter that he just put up to the walls around the house. It gave him a reading and he told me that we would likely have to remove some of the sheet rock, patch the ceiling and repaint the whole kitchen, plus my kid’s rooms upstairs.”

The problems were much of the same for the Monacchio’s in Johnston.

Lucille and Alan Monacchio said that for days they had towels and buckets set up in their kitchen ready to catch the steady stream of liquid that poured from the ceiling. Alan Monacchio said that “luckily” he was able to find a company to come and remove the snow from his roof and that within hours of the snow removal the waterfall stopped, but the damage was already done.

“The water poured in so much and for so long, our countertops have started to lift, the window frames are bubbled and the recessed lighting is still brown from the creosol that seeped in from the roof,” Alan Monacchio said. “The water even seeped through to the lower level and our drop ceilings are stained brown. The water damage is visible throughout the house and that’s what we can see, who knows how much water damage is behind there in the soffit and the sheetrock with mold.”

The Monacchio’s said that they contacted their insurance and that they too were well received. They were instructed to take pictures and document

as much as they could.

“The people at All State were very nice,” Alan Monacchio said. “They said that they had declared a catastrophe in New England and were receiving calls from people all over the state with similar problems.”

Curtis Fallon, Principal owner of Kurtis Fallon Insurance, an independent insurance broker located on Tiogue Avenue in Coventry, said that he had received several calls from clients reporting that they all had water damage because of ice dams. He also said that insurance companies were prepared and ready to handle the overload of reports that all seemed to come at once.

“The traditional leaky roof is not necessarily covered by your average insurance policy, but water damage as a result of the weight of snow and ice, that is considered a covered peril and almost all of the companies that I work with have issued call center phone numbers with a team of people and adjusters designated just for this,” Fallon said. “They are expecting this and are on high alert so most of these claims are being addressed pretty quickly.”

Fallon said that once people call their insurance company to file a claim an adjuster will be dispatched to access the damage. Fallon suggested taking pictures and said that documenting ICE – Page 24

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home improvement

How to Repair & Replace Window Screens Window screens can let fresh air into a home while preventing insects and outdoor critters from making their way inside. But screens are far less effective at keeping critters out of a home when they’re damaged.

Addressing such damage is typically an easy doit-yourself project, one that begins with gathering the right materials, including: • new screening, either synthetic or aluminum • a rubber spline • a screen rolling tool • a razor knife or sharp scissor • measuring tape • masking tape • a screwdriver or an awl Once those materials have been gathered, the process of replacing or repairing damaged screens is rather simple.

Home Improvements that Raise Your House’s Resale Value Before you decide on a home improvement project, it’s a good idea to learn which ones will help raise your homes value and recoup the most money when you decide to sell.

From replacing your front door to adding a deck, there are many midrange improvements that won’t cost a bundle but will deliver great bang for your buck. It’s not about spending the most money; it’s about improvements that best hold their value.

The experts at Remodeling Magazine recently released their 28th annual Cost vs. Value Report, comparing construction costs with resale value for 36 of the most popular home improvement projects. When it came to midrange projects, the report found homeowners recouped the highest percentage of costs on these improvements: installation of manufactured stone veneer on home exteriors, garage door replacements, vinyl siding replacement, and wooden deck additions.

“Making your home stand out from others on your block and others on the market is achievable if you plan wisely when it comes to remodeling projects,” says Phil Wengerd, Vice President of Market Strategies at ProVia, a leading building products manufacturer. “This year’s statistics indicate that moderately priced exterior projects can significantly enhance home resale values.”

This year’s analysis of top midrange home improvement projects provided definite direction for homeowners: Manufactured Stone Veneer: A new project on this year’s report is the installation of manufactured stone veneer on home exteriors. This category zoomed to the top of the midrange list, grabbing second place with a 92.2 percent cost-value return. Increased product demand for Heritage Stone is a reflection of this trend, observed by Wengerd and others.

Garage Door Replacement: The installation of new four-section garage doors on galvanized steel tracks proved to be a valuable project with homeowners recouping 88.4 percent of their costs.

Vinyl Siding Replacement: Replacing a home’s vinyl siding was one of a handful of projects that jumped up the list for recouping improvement costs. So not only can new vinyl siding beautify a home, it can keep it weatherproof and enhance its resale value.

Deck Addition: Adding a wooden deck can do more than provide a place to enjoy the great outdoors. When it comes time to sell, you should be able to pocket more than 80 percent of the cost for this improvement.

More resources on home improvement projects, along with information on entry doors, vinyl siding and manufactured stone veneer, can be found at www.proviaproducts.com/cvv.

Before you dip into your wallet, learn which home improvements will best hold their value while enhancing curb appeal. (StatePoint)

| PrimeTime

1. Measure the area of the window to determine how much replacement screening you will need. Remember to leave extra room in your measurements so you have slack to make the new screen fit taut. The measurement will also help you determine how much spline you will need.

2. Remove the screen from the window frame. Some windows do not have removable screen frames, and you will have to work on the screen in its upright position.

3. Use the screwdriver or awl to pry the edge of the existing spline that holds the screening material in the frame. Pull out the old spline and remove the damaged screening.

4. Measure the new screening from a replacement roll. Lay the screening down on the frame, ensuring there is overhang on all sides. If necessary, use masking tape to temporarily secure the screening to the frame while freeing up your hands. This also works if you must replace screening vertically and cannot remove the window frame and make repairs on a flat surface.

5. Take a new piece of rubber spline and push it into the edge of the screen frame, securing a corner of the new screening to the frame. Continue to press the spline around the perimeter of the screen frame firmly into the groove with the screen rolling tool, which looks like a small pizza cutter. This effectively secures the screen into the frame.

6. Continue around the edge of the frame, pulling the new screening taut as you go. This helps to keep it free of wrinkles.

7. Once you have inserted the spline all the way around, cut it off from the spline spool and push in the edge.

8. Use a razor knife or sharp scissor to cut off the excess screening, being careful not to dislodge it from behind the spline when cutting.

9. Replace the screen in the window.

In the case of small tears in a screen, a complete replacement may not be necessary.

Home improvement stores sell screen patch kits. Some work by cutting out a piece of patch that is attached to an adhesive backing and sticking it over the hole. Other patches are small, woven wires that can be threaded through the hole in the screen. A really small hole can be mended with a drop of clear-drying glue.

The same method of screen replacement can be used to replace screens on screened-in porches, aluminum doors or sliding patio doors. Just be sure to purchase replacement screening that will fit the dimensions.

How To Fix Ceiling Stains

Ceiling stains can to go unnoticed for long periods of time. But ceiling stains can be unsightly, and some are even indicative of a larger problem, so it pays to address stains on their ceilings as soon as possible.

Start with the source. This winter’s ice damming issues caused problems for many homeowners.

But not all stains can be so easily traced to their origins. Some ceiling stains, such as those in bathrooms, may be a byproduct of mold, while others may be indicative of plumbing problems. Identifying the source of a stain is often the first step toward eradicating it.

Fix the problem. Once you have identified what’s causing the stain, fix the problem as soon as possible. Some water stains on ceilings result from cracks or joints that have not been adequately sealed or caulked. Reseal or recaulk any cracks you suspect are leading to ceiling stains. If you have determined a leaky roof is behind your stained ceilings, then have the roof inspected for damage, and prepare yourself to finance a new roof if the inspector determines that’s the best solution.

Remove the stains. Different stains require different treatments. A solution made of water and bleach may be effective at removing ceiling stains, but only apply such solutions on days when you can open the windows and air out your home. Larger stains may require the application of a stain blocker, which may need to be applied with a roller and brush. No matter the stain, you need to leave time for the ceiling to dry before you can move on.

Cover the ceiling with primer. Once the ceiling has completely dried, you can apply a stainblocking primer to prevent future stains. Allow the primer ample time to dry.

Apply a fresh coat of paint. After the primer has dried you can repaint the ceiling. Some paints may blend in even if you only paint the affected areas of the ceiling, but others will require a complete repainting of the ceiling. The eye test will help you determine how much work you have to do.

April 2015

Clearing the Clutter Clutter can gradually accumulate, and over time a home can turn from a welcoming respite to a claustrophobic place overwhelmed by items of little or no value. It can also make putting your home on the market a bigger task.

Homeowners who have battled clutter in the past often find that it is most likely to accumulate over the winter, when frigid temperatures outside drive more people indoors.

Spending more time indoors means more trash indoors.

Newspapers and magazines might be easy to discard when the weather is warm, but a trip outside to discard such items takes less precedence when it must be made in below freezing temperatures. While clearing clutter can seem like an arduous task, the following tips can make the project much easier.

Clean one room or area at a time. A disorganized approach to getting organized is likely to waste time. Work your way through your home one room at a time rather than jumping from room to room. Once you have finished a room, move on to the next one and try to finish a room on the same day you started.

Shred It. Invest in a paper shredder. Old bills, bank statements, receipts, and other once-important papers have a way of accumulating. A paper shredder can be the safest way to discard documents with potentially sensitive information. It’s also a friend to anyone attempting to clear clutter.

Donate It. Many unused items lying around your house can likely be donated to a worthy cause like the Furniture Bank or Big Brothers Big Sisters. You can organize a free pick up of clothing, furniture and more.

Sell It. Make a little (or a lot) of money at a consignment store. They generally specialize in either clothing or furniture and antiques. Or, how about a yard sale. If you decide to downsize a larger part of your home, consider an estate sale. There are several companies that will handle the pricing, advertising and sale of your belongings right in your home.

your home

professional perspective

by BRUCE LANE president of senior real estate solutions

Selling?

Give your home a spring spruce up before putting it on the market For a lot of people, the past winter was the straw that broke the camel’s back. Battered by blizzards and frigid temperatures, the prospect of living in a warmer climate became more enticing than ever. I personally know of a number of retired Rhode Islanders who reached the tipping point in the past few months and have made the decision to stop chasing their dreams and start living them instead. But while their dreams await them in beachside homes or golfing communities, they have a lot of work to do before they achieve them.

For most of us, spring home improvement projects include a little gardening and perhaps some minor repairs brought on by the winter weather. For those getting their home ready for the spring selling season however, ‘home improvement’ takes on a whole new meaning as they prepare for every nook and cranny of their home to be scrutinized by potential buyers.

Where to start? A home inspection is a good idea to uncover any issues that could allow a buyer to demand a lower price, or even prevent a sale from happening. Yes, the buyer will likely have one done prior to closing but if the seller has one done before putting their home on the market, any issues can be taken care of ahead of time or at the very least, they will be prepared for any areas for negotiation that could arise with potential buyers. Typically, the cost of a home inspection for an average house is somewhere in the neighborhood of $400, but it’s money well spent that can save a seller thousands of dollars in the end.

Enhancing your home’s curb appeal should also be a priority. After all, if your home doesn’t look enticing on the outside, many potential buyers won’t even give it an inside look. Gardens should be neat, exterior paint shouldn’t be peeling or dirty, and the roof should show as few signs of damage or wear and tear as possible. Outside entrances should say, ‘come on in”, not, ‘you think this is bad, wait until you come inside.” Doors should be spruced up with a fresh coat of paint if needed and accent flowers or attractive planters placed nearby.

When it comes to the home’s interior, older sellers may have a lot of work to do to get their home in “sale” condition. Getting rid of clutter is the key to making a home appear larger and often years of accumulation needs to be dealt with. Don’t be deterred. There are services that help sort and prioritize what goes and what stays, and find the best place to sell items that will no longer remain in the family. Downsizing can be tough but senior moving managers are trained to be empathetic and efficient.

When we live in a home for a long time, most of us have a blind eye for things that need to be updated. We tend to love the things we create ourselves so it’s easy to overlook the need to freshen up the look of a room that we decorated or renovated in 1995. A fresh coat of paint, replacement of a dated light fixture or kitchen counter, or even new cabinet hardware, are all inexpensive ways to give a space fresh appeal. A Realtor can make suggestions like these that will help reap more money at the closing table. Expensive renovations aren’t necessary but small upgrades can result in large gains.

Finally, be prepared for anything that can thwart a sale. Is the vacant land next door a candidate for sale? Are you affected by flood insurance requirements that competing properties are not? Does the title on your property have any encumbrances? Will potential buyers be able to have the home appraised for the amount needed to close or are there no relevant comparable properties that have sold recently? Once again, a good Realtor can be invaluable in exploring these types of issues and helping to determine the best path to take.

Even if you’re still a few years from “living the dream,” preparation is the key to a successful transition. Relocating is daunting for anyone but with a plan in place, you could be sitting pretty under that palm tree in your golden years. Or, it may just turn out that your spruced up home may be your dream after all.

Bruce Lane is the President of Senior Real Estate Solutions, a non-profit referral service for seniors looking for reliable home repair & maintenance services.

If you have home maintenance questions, send them to Bruce@BruceLane.com or via the Senior Real Estate Solutions website at www.seniorrealestatesolutionsri.com

April 2015

PrimeTime |

10 | PrimeTime

April 2015

home improvement

aging & renovating b y michelle lee parenteau michelle lee designs

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Planning Bathroom Renovations for Now and the Future

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There are many considerations when planning a bathroom renovation.

Budget is the main factor, but not the only one. When meeting with clients, we go over all specifications and layout. Other considerations would be functionality, design, longevity and any limitations.

More and more boomers and seniors want to remain in their familiar homes.

Many clients’ first request, when remodeling a bathroom for example, is that the bathroom be more accessible, but not look institutional or sterile in any form. As we approach our “finer” years, considerations need to be made with regards to home modifications that enhance our lifestyle and safety as well as creating the ability to maintain independence.

Popular aging renovations include bathrooms with a custom colored shower base complete with a built in seat that coordinates with your color palette. Additionally, grab bars, upgraded lighting, installing glass doors, multi-function hand shower with a slide bar, bigger vanities with a double sink and comfort height toilets with elongated seats will create a more functional space.

By adding floor tile with a matte finish, it will help prevent slipping. Wall tile mixed with glass accent, brush nickel fixtures and wall color will help your bathroom have that aesthetically pleasing look.

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Michelle Lee Parenteau is a residential and commercial designer she is the owner of Michelle Lee Designs 401-954-2065 www.michelleleedesigns.com

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April 2015

State-DEA-30977_ad_4375x5875.indd 1

3/5/15 10:45 AM

PrimeTime | 11

Beautiful music in a tranquil setting

The

relationship between

Color Mood and

INTERNATIONAL STRING TRIO: Jakub Trasak, Slava Tolsto and Ippei Ichimaru (photos submitted by Diane Brewer) The International String Trio, alumni of Berklee College of Music in Boston, performed their mix of Gypsy Jazz, Appalachian folk, acoustic world music on March 8 to a crowd of about 60 at the Roger Williams Park Botanical Center in Providence.

Home to many concerts and events, the botantical center is the largest public indoor display gardens in New England. It includes two greenhouses with more than over 150 different species of plants. Many of the plants were saved from the old greenhouse displays and replanted. To learn more about visiting the center and upcoming programs, visit www.providenceri.com/botanical-center.

Volunteer Opportunities

Have a passion for gardening? The Botanical Center is always looking for volunteers to plant seeds and plants, to weeding, deadheading, and pruning. Work side by side with experienced gardeners, it’s a wonderful learning opportunity for experienced and beginner gardeners alike.

Please contact our Office Administrator, Samantha Richards at 401-785-9450 ext. 250 or email: RWBotanicalCenter@gmail.com for more info.

Painting is one of the easiest and least expensive ways to transform the look of a space. The colors homeowners choose for their walls can give rooms their own unique feel and even affect the moods of the people within them.

Finding the right shade for a bedroom or kitchen involves more than just selecting the first color that catches your eye. Design experts and psychologists alike say it may be worthwhile to choose a color that helps you feel good rather than just following design trends. The paint color you pick may add energy to a space or create a tranquil retreat where you can unwind at the end of the day.

Home decorators should keep in mind that colors can be blended to create the desired environment. A color scheme based on complementary colors, or those opposite on the color wheel, may fit. Otherwise, analogous color schemes, or those colors that are next to one another on the color wheel, can create a variation that suits your design needs. SH152904

blue

To create a spa-like environment and a more serene space, look to shades of blue in soft variations. Cool blues are soothing colors that can help lower stress levels and promote sleep. That’;s why blue is a frequent fixture in bedrooms and bathrooms. Just be advised that too much blue can make a room appear cold and stark, so balance out blue with some warmer accents.

Green

The International String Trio will be back performing in Rhode Island on

Green can evoke composure and tranquility and works in any room of the house. Since green is the primary color of nature, it also works well for those people who want to bring some of the outdoors inside and work with the fresh starts and new growth that green can inspire. To make green feel less subdued and sleepy, work with its complementary opposite, red, by using a few bold red accents here and there to balance out the tranquility of green.

Saturday, April 11, at the Blackstone River Theatre, 549 Broad Street, Cumberland.

Call (401) 725-9272 for tickets more information.

12 | PrimeTime

Red

Red stimulates energy and appetite, which is why the shade is so popular in restaurants and home dining spaces. Red is a good choice for social gathering rooms but may not be the wisest choice for a bedroom, as the color may prove overstimulating.

April 2015

home improvement

Purple

People have long related purple to royalty, and this dramatic color can add a formal, regal aspect to a home depending on the hue. Purple also may help stimulate the creative side of the brain. In paler shades of lavender, purple can seem almost ethereal and spiritual.

Some designers suggest avoiding purple in a bedroom because that is a place you want your brain to rest rather than be stimulated.

Yellow

Few colors are more vibrant than yellow, which can help stimulate conversation and make thoughts more focused. A luminous shade of yellow is an ideal way to make any space more welcoming and bright. Just use it sparingly, as too much yellow may not be a good thing. Yellow accents mixed with touches of purple can offer the balance needed to prevent yellow rooms from overwhelming residents and guests.

Orange

Many don’t consider bright orange, but when used as an accent shade, orange can really brighten up a home. Orange is considered a shade that expands creativity and imparts a youthful appeal to a space. Consider an orange accent wall or a burst of color with orange throw pillows. If pumpkin orange is a little too bold for you, tone it down by choosing a more pastel, peachy hue, which is equally warm and energizing.

2015 Pantone color of the year ®

MARSALA PANTONE ® 18-1438

A naturally robust and earthy wine red “Add elegance to any room by incorporating this rich and welcoming hue in accent pieces, accessories and paint.”

April 2015

PrimeTime | 13

Splashes of

Color

Supporting independence with quality and reliability.

Bring Nature Inside

Flowers and plants can make colorful additions to a home’s interior. Flowers tend to be aromatic, which can make a stuffy house in which windows need to be kept closed a lot more pleasant. Plants and flowers also can improve indoor air quality. Several studies, including one published in the Journal for the American Society for Horticultural Science, have shown that houseplants improve indoor air quality by filtering out volatile organic compounds, or VOCs, that can be harmful to human health. That’s especially important come late fall and winter, when homeowners typically shut their windows and keep them shut until spring, making it difficult for fresh air to enter a home.

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Lincoln Mall

401-335-9000

Artwork

Add color to your home with colorful artwork. Paintings that feature bold colors tend to draw your immediate attention when you enter a room.

If you want to go the extra mile, find a painting that features colors which match throw pillows or other accessories in the room.

This way your walls and your accessories are working in concert to make a room more colorful.

Did you know?

➼

Instead of wrestling with nails, screws and hanging hardware, creating more holes in your walls than necessary to get items level and in the right spots, use your office equipment to make life easier. Make a copy of the back of the item you’re trying to hang with a printer/ scanner or a copy machine, making sure to copy the item to full scale. Print the copy at full size and use it to drill the hanging holes. If you don’t have access to a copy machine or scanner, use a piece of tape to measure the distance between the hanging holes on the back of the frame.

Stick the tape to the wall and then put your nails or screws at the ends of the

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Throw

Pillows and Rugs

Invest in some colorful throw pillows and rugs to give a room a more vibrant look. Patterns can be mixed and matched to provide some contrast and transform a room season to season.

Colorful Curtains Changing drapes can change the feel of the entire room. Keep walls and furniture neutral and options are endless when it comes to choosing curtains with personality.

14 | PrimeTime

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(401) 732-3100 April 2015

business Spotlight

Scandinavian Home

A state-of-the-art facility for all your rehabilitation needs

Scandinavian Home, inc. skilled nursing & rehabilitation center 1811 Broad Street, Cranston, RI 02905

401-461-1433

~

assisted living community

50 Warwick Avenue, Cranston, RI 02905

401-461-1444

A Community Built with Care!

www.ScandinavianHome.com The dedicated teams of caregivers, therapists and the administrator of Scandinavian Home’s Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation Center in Cranston have a great deal to be proud of these days. Not only has this busy center recently undergone a major renovation that has infused the staff and residents with a renewed energy and purpose, its rehabilitation program continues to outperform other such facilities in the region. In fact, Scandinavian Home has the lowest re-admission rate of any of the other skilled nursing and rehabilitation centers.

With a readmission rate of only 8%, according to 2013 Medicare data, this center offers the highest quality of care possible.

Scandinavian Home A short-term patient in Scandinavian Home’s has earned this low re- Rehabilitation Center gets back on her feet admission rate because again with the care of her diligent therapist. of the outstanding care it provides to all their residents. Long term residents are professionally and lovingly cared for and truly feel part of the Scandinavian Home family.

Short term patients recuperating from hospital stays, those having elective surgery, or those with any orthopedic injury receive the specialized compassionate care they require to return to a baseline level of independence. From the moment of admission to the moment of discharge, the tight-knit team of professionals here works closely to develop a care plan which centers around the patient’s own articulated goals for recovery. Patients are evaluated, treated and continually monitored throughout their entire stay. Through an interdisciplinary approach that involves social workers, therapists, doctors, nurses, caregivers and family members, the patient is given access to all needed services. Their input is sought and highly valued; in the words of Lori Marsella-Levine, Scandinavian Home’s enthusiastic Admission’s Coordinator, the patient here is “the captain of their own ship!”

So many of the success stories here at this progressive facility can be attributed to this philosophy of empowering patients to take control of their own recovery, bolstered by the constant support of the skilled and devoted team of professionals around them.

For those who are seeking rehabilitative care, especially those who have a planned surgery, Admissions Coordinator Lori Marsella-Levine encourages you to begin your search for post-operative care right here at this comprehensive facility. Prospective patients are given a full tour of the facility before admission, thus allowing them to make an informed decision regarding their own care. They will visit one of the many private or semi-private rooms to find flat-screen TV’s, telephones, free wi-fi and comfortable, new furnishings.

They will also meet Stephen Paull, an occupational therapist and the leader of the team of talented staff who work in the center’s busy therapy room. Filled with natural light and specific equipment such as a recumbent stepping machine, parallel bars, stairs and a hi-lo table for therapeutic exercise and therapeutic activities, this room is where therapy is conducted seven days a week. The team works aggressively to bring their patients to a state of complete recovery.

If you would like more information about the rehabilitation center at Scandinavian Home, contact Lori Marsella-Levine at 401-461-1433 or visit them at 1811 Broad St. in Cranston. You can also find them at www.scandinavianhome.com.

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The Miriam Hospital Weight Management Program For over 25 years, our physicians, psychologists, nutritionists, nurse and exercise physiologist have guided patients through safe, healthful weight loss.

After just 16 weeks in treatment: Average weight loss: 38 pounds For more information or to enroll in a free orientation session call: 401-444-4800 146 West River Street, Suite 11A, Providence, Rhode Island 02904

Are you ready for spring?

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April 2015

PrimeTime | 15

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April 2015

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Put Spring in Your Step with these...

lifestyles

Fun Ideas!

Can it really be spring at last? Yes, and we’re ready to embrace it with open arms. Winter was like a never-ending nightmare of snow and ice, bundling up and hunkering down, and forgetting what grass looks like.

So if you’re ready to enjoy the special perks that springtime offers, why not check out some of these April events and attractions.

If stretching your legs and walking about is high on your to-do list, you might enjoy the Newport History Walking Tours coming up on April 11th through the 12th. While exploring the streets and sites of Newport you’ll hear fascinating tales of colonial Newport, the War of Independence, the Gilded Age, pirates and rum runners and the Triangle Trade. To find out more and to make reservations you can call 401-841-8770 or visit the web site at www.newporthistorytours.org.

If flowers put a smile on your face and a song in your heart, take a trip to Blithewold Mansion, Gardens and Arboretum in time for Daffodil Days, running from April 4 through the 26th. The site boasts a spectacular display of more than 50,000 daffodils. On Tuesdays through Fridays you can sip some afternoon tea in the Blithewold dining room. For more information call 401-253-2707 or visit the web site at www.blithewold.org. The location is 101 Ferry Road in Bristol.

If you want to make some noise and root for the home team, check out the

Pawtucket Red Sox on Opening Night, April 16th at McCoy Stadium.

And with school vacation week coming up from April 20 to the 24, maybe you’d like some ideas for keeping the grandchildren busy.

The Audubon Society is offering a Sea Glass Earrings Workshop for teens 13 and up on April 21 from 10:30 a.m. until 12 p.m. In this popular workshop teens will design and create a set of unique earrings with sea glass found on local beaches. All materials are included. Advance registration is required. The fee is $15 for members, $20 for non-members. The location is the Audubon Environmental Education Center at 1401 Hope Street in Bristol. Phone number is 401-245-7500; web site is www.asri.org.

The Providence Children’s Museum has some fun lined up every day during school vacation week. On Thursday, April 23 it’s “Animal Experiences”, a chance for kids to see an awesome assortment of live animals and learn all about them from animal expert Dave Marchetti. For ages 3 and up, shows take place at 11:30 a.m., 1 p.m., and 2:30 p.m. For more information call 401-273KIDS or go to the web site at www.childrenmuseum.org. The address is 100 South Street in Providence.

And if you’d prefer a free event, on April 22 there’s Play Historic Children’s Games at the Pawtucket Public Library from 3 to 4 p.m. Kids can learn the games colonial children played 100 years ago. For details call 401-7253714 or visit www.pawtucketlibrary.org.

The time is 7:05 pm. Call 401-724-7300 or go to www.pawsox.com for ticket information.

great food! great prices! great view!

If music makes your heart beat faster you might enjoy The Swing ‘n Big Band Show taking place on April 19 at 2 p.m. at the Stadium Theatre Performing Arts Center in Woonsocket. Featuring the Rhode Island Wind Ensemble and vocalist Kelley Lennon performing the greatest swing hits by Benny Goodman, Glenn Miller, Artie Shaw, Tommy Dorsey and more. Tickets are $21, $26, or $31. Call 401-762-4545 for more information.

And speaking of kids, how about some Easter egg hunting ideas? On Saturday, April 4th the 26th Annual Easter Eggs Hunt and Brunch in Newport begins at 10 a.m. Bring the kids to meet the Easter Bunny and gather some eggs on the Oceanside lawn, then sit down for a delicious Easter brunch. Reservations are needed. The location is Rosecliff, 548 Bellevue Avenue in Newport. Call 401-847-1000 or visit www.newportmansion.org.

Also, on April 4th, there’s the 9th Annual Casey Farm Easter Egg Hunt in Saunderstown, North Kingston from 11 a.m. to 12 noon. The

hunt starts at 1l and then it’s time to explore the farm, check out the chickens and chicks, and get half a dozen fresh Casey Farm eggs to bring home. There’ll be farm games, Easter crafts and refreshments. The event is free to Historic New England members or $5 for non-members. You’ll need to register. Call 401-2951030.

April 2015

Enjoy a Harbor View Every Day or Night!

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Maybe you’d like to do something artistic? If so, Roger Williams Park Zoo has Wine and Paint Nights for ages 21 and up from 6:30 to 9 p.m. The workshops run from March 5 until May 28. Led by instructors, artists of all skill levels will be guided to create beautiful artwork to display at home. For a fee of $35, they’ll provide the canvas, paints, brushes, a smock, and refreshments.

They also have Snack and Paint Afternoons for kids aged 13 and up, running from 12 noon to 2:30 p.m. Age-appropriate refreshments will be served. Themes include peacocks, giraffes, red pandas, zebras and barn owls. Preregistration is required for the workshops. Call 401-785-3510 to sign up.

www.crowsnestri.com PrimeTime | 17

by L aura B ittinger & D o nna D e L aur o senior real estate specialists, mature matters at keller williams

home

improvement

realty

‘Right-Sizing’ Welcome Spring! Say “farewell” to bitter cold, record snowfall, frozen pipes and failing roofs. A winter like we just experienced makes some of our senior homeowner clients question the continuing importance and value of keeping and maintaining the family home. The cost of holding on to a home that is too large, expensive to maintain, or needs repairs may lead to thoughts of a more carefree lifestyle. Downsizing or “right-sizing” can lead to a simpler, more affordable lifestyle. You may find that comfortable lifestyle in one of the many condominium communities in Rhode Island. There’s a condominium community to fit every budget.

Relax, let someone else do that work for you. Enjoy the benefits of home ownership without the worries. Many seniors who wish to continue to own their home find condominium ownership a good option. Condominiums come in many forms. They can be freestanding homes, townhouses, duplexes, multifamilies. They can be brand new, re-sales, or conversions - a building that used to be an apartment, factory, or mill. Condominiums are different in that you own your own unit, but share ownership of the land, building and common areas.

There are many benefits to condominium ownership: • Freedom from work you may not have the time or desire to do, including, outdoor maintenance, repairs, painting, shoveling, mowing. These activities are covered by your monthly condo fee.

• Major costs are shared by the other residents of your community.

• Comfortable living on one, easily accessible level. The family home may be multi-leveled and sprawling.

• Greater security. Having neighbors to keep an eye on your home when you’re away.

• Increased opportunity for socialization. Many communities offer groups and activities.

Common areas and clubhouses encourage group gatherings and afford opportunities to socialize with friends.

• Affordability. Condominium ownership is often more affordable than owning and maintaining a home that no longer meets your needs.

When previewing condominium communities, look for communities that appear well-maintained, have plenty of parking, and have well financed budgets. Ask whether there are any current “special assessments” for large projects or if any are planned in the near future.

Many communities have a monthly newsletter that updates residents of important dates, meetings, events, and activities.

Don’t be afraid to talk to the people you see living there and ask them if they’re satisfied. You’ll find people are happy to share their experiences with you.

Condominium ownership is just one of many options available to people considering a downsize. It is important to talk to family, friends, financial advisors, and your real estate professional to explore the living options in your community and find what best suits your needs.

The All Around the House Team at Keller Williams, Founders of Mature Matters Senior Real Estate Specialists. Accredited Buyer Representatives. Donna DeLauro 401-486-6044, Laura Bittinger 401932-5770. www.maturemattersrealestate.com

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April 2015

retirement sparks

senior

issues

b y elaine m . decker

Thresholds, Stairs and

Memory Loss Retirement finds most of us spending more time in our home, making us aware of how frequently we forget where we’re headed when we go from one room to another. You might think this is because we’re home more often. Turns out, there’s a scientific reason for this memory gap.

The University of Notre Dame published a study some years ago that has only now come to my attention. The author is Professor Gabriel Radvansky, and his ND webpage tells us his research “is aimed at understanding… how younger and older adults differ on their use of mental models.” I’m sure this is a fascinating field, but I’m mostly interested in his paper: “Walking through doorways causes forgetting.”

In that study, subjects either walked through a doorway to another room to get something, or they walked the same distance within a room. Those who crossed a threshold (what Radvansky calls an “event boundary”) showed more memory loss than those who walked within a room. He concluded that these event boundaries compartmentalize activities in the mind, filing them in separate mental spaces. This impedes the ability to retrieve thoughts or decisions made in a different room.

His conclusion comes as no surprise to me. In fact, I can add to his findings. The more doorways you walk through, the harder it is to remember what you started out planning to do. Before we downsized to our condo, we had a big house. I had things going on from the basement to the third floor and the two floors in between.

I rarely got through a day without forgetting which floor I was headed to, never mind for what reason. The further I had to go, the more likely I was to forget why before I got there.

Speaking of floors, stairs are another major “event boundary.” If something requires me to hit the stairs, chances are I’m going to forget what it was that put me there. If I’m lucky enough to remember why I’ve arrived on an upper floor, I’ll likely realize I left an important paper on the lower level from whence I set out.

Or I need a tool that’s in a cupboard in the garage or (worse yet) in a drawer in the basement.

Take for instance mending the holes in my husband’s socks. (Yes, I still do that.)

All the sewing supplies are stored in a second floor guest room. I have no problem remembering why I’ve put a pile of socks on a table in our family room. But it takes weeks before I put the notion of bringing the mending kit downstairs into the equation. Note to self: Why not get an extra sock darner and keep it in a first floor closet?

(And get some spare needle threaders while I’m at it.) Second note to self: remember where you just put that first note.

I think I know why stairs are such a major contributor to forgetfulness, other than Radvansky’s research or Murphy’s Law. It has to do with this charming A. A. Milne poem:

This leads to the conclusion that the best way to deal with these event boundaries is to eliminate them from our home. In other words, when we retire, we should adopt an open floor plan: one enormous room with no doorways and no stairs. My husband loves that loft-style architecture. Me, not so much.

If you’re giving this careful thought, you’ve probably realized that there needs to be at least one door: to the bathroom. Chances are, we won’t forget why we were headed there, no matter how many trips we make in a day. For most of us, that’s one thing to be thankful for. Of course, when we come out of the bathroom, figuring out where to go back to is something else entirely. That’s what sticky notes are for.

Note to self: add post-its to shopping list.

Copyright 2015 Business Theatre Unlimited Elaine M. Decker’s books—Retirement Sparks Redux (just published in December, 2014), Retirement Sparks Again, Retirement Sparks and CANCER: A Coping Guide—are available at SPECTRUM-INDIA, on the East Side of Providence, on Amazon.com, including Kindle editions, and by special order through your local bookstore. One of her essays appears in the recently published anthology: 70 Things To Do When You Turn 70. Contact her at: emdecker@ix.netcom.com.

Half way down the stairs is a stair where I sit.

There isn’t any other stair quite like it.

I’m not at the bottom; I’m not at the top.

So this is the stair where I always stop.

Halfway up the stairs isn’t up and it isn’t down.

It isn’t in the nursery; it isn’t in the town.

And all sorts of funny thoughts run round my head.

It isn’t really anywhere! It’s someplace else instead!

There you have it. We lose our minds on stairs because when we get halfway from here to there we’re nowhere. And our minds are happy to join us there.

April 2015

PrimeTime | 19

your taxes

professional perspective

b y meg chevalier

Deduction for Medical and Dental Expenses Your medical expenses may save you money at tax time, but a few key rules apply. Here are some tax tips to help you determine if you can claim a tax deduction: • You must itemize. You can only claim your medical expenses that you paid for in 2014 if you itemize deductions on your federal tax return. If you take the standard deduction, you can’t claim these expenses.

• AGI threshold. You include all the qualified medical costs that you paid for during the year. However, you can only deduct the amount that is more than 10 percent of your adjusted gross income.

• Temporary threshold for age 65. If you or your spouse is age 65 or older, the AGI threshold is 7.5 percent of your AGI. This exception applies through Dec. 31, 2016.

• Costs to include. You can include most medical and dental costs that you paid for yourself, your spouse and your dependents. Exceptions and special rules apply. Costs reimbursed by insurance or other sources do not qualify for a deduction.

• Expenses that qualify. You can include the costs of diagnosing, treating, easing or preventing disease. The costs you

pay for prescription drugs and insulin qualify. The costs you pay for insurance premiums for policies that cover medical care qualify. Some long-term care insurance costs also qualify. For more examples of costs you can and can’t deduct, see IRS Publication 502, Medical and Dental Expenses. You can get it on IRS.gov/forms anytime.

• Travel costs count. You may be able to claim travel costs you pay for medical care. This includes costs such as public transportation, ambulance service, tolls and parking fees. If you use your car, you can deduct either the actual costs or the standard mileage rate for medical travel.

The rate is 23.5 cents per mile for 2014.

• No double benefit. You can’t claim a tax deduction for medical expenses you paid for with funds from your Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Spending Arrangements. Amounts paid with funds from those plans are usually tax-free. This rule prevents two tax benefits for the same expense.

• Use the tool. You can use the Interactive Tax Assistant tool on IRS.gov to see if you can deduct your medical expenses.

The tool can answer many of your questions on a wide range of tax topics.

For additional information, please visit www.irs.gov.

Igoe Named to LeadingAge RI Board of Directors LeadingAge RI, the professional organization representing not-for-profit nursing homes, assisted living facilities, senior housing providers, and adult day health centers, has announced that Johnston resident Stephanie Igoe will serve as a member of the organization’s board of directors.

Igoe is administrator of the Mount St. Rita Health Centre in Cumberland where she has been responsible for operations of the five-star skilled nursing center since 2011.

A licensed nursing home administrator, Igoe received her BA from University of New Hampshire and her MS in health care administration from Salve Regina University.

Senior Spending is on the

RISE

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20 | PrimeTime

April 2015

LIFESTYLES

wHAT DO YOU FINK?

by MIKE FINK

A

fter four decades in a narrow rabbit warren of an “office,” I am in process of taking over a wider space with a much better view. I will acquire four tall windows looking at the bridge over the Providence River, the top tip of the “Superman” building, the old Hospital Trust, and the garden of statues and memorial monuments. Plus, a balcony, mostly decorative. It has been, and will continue to be, an enormous job, physically, emotionally, and even philosophically, for me. I had to toss out many small treasures and works on paper. Pages written by me, by my students and colleagues, along with vast quantities of magazines from the Audubon Society, the Smithsonian Institute, National Geographic, and piles of Providence Journals. These are the things I keep: notes from students, plus little trinkets they have left behind with kindly thank-you messages, for an elective course, or even merely for a conversation.

Going way back in time. Even behind and beyond, I have stored family souvenirs, sometimes on shelves collecting dust, or shoved into drawers. Truth to tell, tiny mites have evolved to chew and fray the edges of sepia snapshots or formal portraits, of aunts and uncles, grandparents, or of distant cousins!

The list of my mementos is far too long to keep track of in words. Loyal “maids” who empty our wastebaskets in the wee hours before we arrive on the daily stage of our lecture platforms take away endless mountains of “trash” which secretly or privately contain hidden treasures as

The Big Move! my domain enters a sort of “dementia” with each object junked. I sigh and I frown as I toss stuff onto, or rescue from, the heap. Plenty left to do. I have to un-tack a few further large posters. One or two I may give away as gifts for students who help me heave and carry. Others may find a proper place, pinned by multi-facetted upholstery tacks, to the new walls: I have less space because of the fenestration of glass panes. And then, I used to cut out the funnies, or odds and ends of stories and obits, from the passing parade of daily papers: these curl and dry up like

autumn leaves and turn nearly to dust, like the face of Boris Karloff in the final scene of “The Mummy”--the 1930s version, of course. Every single surface that is flat is now lightly loaded with tiny tokens of anecdotes and adventures on the verge of vanishing into the void of edited memory. I file and de-brief these details--why? I am told as I kvetch and complain about my ordeal that “moving” is one of the great stressful crises of anyone’s life. All I have been busy doing, though, is filling cardboard cartons with reminders of the story of my life and my career, my family’s progress and my students’ destinies. And then, unpacking them contemplatively and compulsively.

Come visit sometime and pore over a corner of my mess, neat but unorganized. You may find my mother’s dancing shoes from 1925, with sequins and beads, or my father’s fine brushes, or his radio set, or the fox stole my grandmother wore, or the needlepoint wallhanging bearing her maiden name initials, Once Upon a Time. You may even find something you gave me: you may have forgotten, but the Old Lamp-lighter or the Moon may remember, so will I.

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THAT’S ENTERTAINMENT

lifestyles

by DON FOWLER

Spring Entertainment Spring has finally sprung, and with it a chance to get out of the house, away from the TV, and experience some live entertainment.

April is a busy month for the arts in Rhode Island, and this year there are some excellent offerings for seniors.

Ocean State Theatre in Warwick will present the hilarious “Lend Me a Tenor,” one of the funniest plays I have ever seen. It all revolves around a botched production of the opera, “Otello.” It plays April 1-19, and is followed

by Stephen Sondheim’s Tony Award-winning musical, “Into the Woods” which was recently made into a movie. It plays April 29-May17.

Call 921-6800 for reservations.

Gamm Theatre in Pawtucket will present David Adjmi’s hysterical take of “Marie Antionette” in his satirical new comedy which runs from April 30-May 31. Call 7234266 for reservations.

Both Gamm and Ocean State Theatre have matinee performances.

For those who like the classics, Epic Theatre in Cranston will present Chekhov’s “Three Sisters” on weekends, including a Sunday matinee, April 10-25. Call 4909475 for reservations.

Classical music lovers can enjoy “Soli Deo Gloria,” Bach’s Mass in B Minor, performed by the talented Rhode Island Civic Chorale & Orchestra on Saturday, May

16 at 7:30 p.m. at the Cathedral of Saints Peter & Paul in Providence, and Sunday, May 17 at 3:00 p.m. at St. Joseph’s Church, 5 Mann Ave., in Newport. Call 521-5670 for reservations.

R.I. Philharmonic lovers can attend a Rush Hour performance of ”Bolero,” music by Ravel, Berlioz, and Saint-Saens, on Friday, April 10 at 6:30 p.m., or the regular performance on Saturday, April 11 at 8:00 p.m. Call 248-7000.

You don’t have to be Jewish to enjoy that wonderful Jewish humor of “Old Jews Telling Jokes” coming to Trinity Rep’s Chace Theatre (upstairs - elevator available) April 15-May 10. There are matinees, and this one is classified as ‘adult humor.’ Don’t worry, you’re old enough. Call 351-4242 for tickets.

Ballet lovers will want to see the latest rendition of “Up Close at Hope,” Festival Ballet’s dance program in the intimacy of their black box studio, where you are literally up close and personal, running from April 10-25 at the Hope Street, Providence studio. Call 353-1129 for reservations.

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Westbay Café…More than a Meal Making a luncheon reservation at our eight Westbay Cafes is as easy as 1, 2, 3!

– april –

SpeCial MealS Thursday, april 2 – easter Celebration Tossed salad, Baked Ham with mashed potatoes, carrots, roll and white cake with frosting. Pub Option: Italian Grinder Friday, april 5 Breakfast Orange Juice, Scrambled Eggs with Cheese, Home Fries, Croissants.

Wednesday, april 15 Bring a Friend Day Wonton Soup, Sweet and Sour Chicken, Pork Fried Rice, Stir Fried Vegetables with Fortune Cookie.

Pub Option: Waldorf Salad

Our caterer provides the following three options (two each day) for your meal • Hearty Traditional Meal – Appetizer, Main Entrée with sides (potato, vegetables) • Pub Option – Delicious Sandwich • Spa Option – Lighter, healthy option for those on the go All luncheons include an appetizer, bread, dessert and coffee or tea

For more information, please call patty martucci, Assistant Director of Senior nutrition program

401-732-4666 ext. 142

Senior CenterS Charlestown 401-364-9955 East Greenwich 401-886-8638 Jamestown 401-423-2658 The Center–S. Kingstown 401-789-0268 West Warwick 401-822-4450 Westerly 401-596-2404 Senior ApArtmentS (you do not have to be a resident) Park View-Westerly 401-596-4918 Shalom Apartments 401-737-0180

We invite seniors age 60 and older and individuals with disabilities to join us at these Cafes for a nutritious lunch. The suggested donation is $3/person. Reservations are necessary and should be made by Thursday for the following week.

April 2015

PrimeTime | 23

senior

issues

b y C amilla F arrell de velopment direc tor , alzheimer ’s association

RI

chapter

Gala to benefit Alzheimer’s Association The 4th annual “Unforgettable Evening & Auction” will be held on Kentucky Derby Day, May 2, to benefit the Alzheimer’s Association Rhode Island Chapter. All proceeds from the Auction will help to enhance care, support, and resources for families dealing with the challenges of Alzheimer’s disease.

Michelle Ocampo and Marta Rosol pose with their derby hats.

Experience the excitement and glamour of the “Run for the Roses Kentucky Derby” theme with a fun-filled evening featuring entertainment by Brass Attack, games of chance, live broadcast of the Derby races, prizes for Derby attire, a savory dinner, a large silent and live auction, and an opportunity to win a one-week stay in a private home on Cape Cod. The Gala will be at the Rhode Island Country Club. Tickets are $85 and include appetizers, dinner, dessert, and entertainment. There are also opportunities for businesses to purchase sponsorships which include advertising and preferred seating.

The evening will begin at 5:30 with a cocktail hour and then live broadcast of the Kentucky Derby at approximately 6:30 p.m. followed by the silent auction, dinner, and dancing. Bid on an array of auction packages from exclusive spa treatments, golf outings at private clubs, theatre packages, children’s parties, and and more.

Throughout the evening, purchase raffle tickets for a one-week stay on Cape Cod. There will also be wine bottles with surprises for purchase as well.

“We are looking forward to a wonderful evening and we thank all of the businesses in the community who support this important event to raise funds and awareness for people with Alzheimer’s disease in Rhode Island,” said Alzheimer’s Association Executive Director, Donna McGowan.

Email agarcia@alz.org or visit our website alz.org/ri or call our Chapter Office at 1-800-272-3900 by April 24 to purchase tickets.

The Rhode Island Chapter, an affiliate of the National Alzheimer’s Association, is a private, non-profit organization started in 1989. Offices are located at 245 Waterman Street, Suite 306, Providence, RI 02906. Phone: 1-800-272-3900, Fax: 401-421-0115, Website: www.alz.org/ri

ICE from Page 7 on paper the details of the incident are always helpful tools for insurance companies when handling a claim.

Depending on the extent of damage a carpenter might be called in to work with the adjuster, Fallon said, but in terms of making the repairs, that work, he said, will likely not get under way until the weather subsides.

Many homeowners wonder what to do next winter to avoid the same problems.

“Ice rakes work good, but whether people get the snow off themselves or hire a company to come and do it, people have got to be proactive and try to eliminate the problem before the ice dams start and keeping the snow off their roofs is the best way to do it,” Belov said.

With spring here, people can begin to consider repairs from this year’s wintery demise and one of the home 24 | PrimeTime

improvement projects that Belov said is worth considering is the installation of heating cables that can be installed on rooftops to help with the prevention of ice dams for next year. According to Belov, whose company does offer the installation service, these systems are not foolproof, but are helpful.

“I have been at houses this year that had these on their roofs and they still had ice dams, but the ice dams were not nearly as bad as some of the other houses I have worked on,” Belov said. “They definitely help to prevent the dams from forming, but when you have weather like we have had this winter; it’s just a real battle.

“We are a third generation company and I can honestly say that the amount of calls I received in one day [at the height of the ice dam problem at the end of February] was equivalent to the number of calls I received throughout the entire winter the year before,” Belov said.

April 2015

senior issues

b y kerry park

Start an open conversation about long term care now Imagine this scenario: Sarah is worried about her mother. She’s unsteady with her walker and she never fully recovered from a fall she took right before Christmas. When she dropped by after work for a quick visit with her mom, Sarah noticed how much of the food in the fridge had passed its expiration date. There was unopened mail piled up on the kitchen table, along with the medication box that Sarah had set up a week ago so her mother wouldn’t forget to take her pills. The last two days of medication was left untouched. The house, always a source of pride for her 85-year old mother, looked unkempt.

Sarah knew her mother was lonely and couldn’t live safely alone much longer but she couldn’t help but remember how determined her mother was to live out her life in the family home.

There are scenes like Sarah’s playing out every day across Rhode Island but with a little guidance, Sarah, and those like her, can alleviate the anxiety that accompanies a move necessitated by aging.

It’s difficult to look on as an aging parent becomes frail and loses their independence. It’s also not easy to broach

the thorny topic of moving to someone who doesn’t want to face leaving their familiar surroundings. Often adult children avoid talking about the future until a health crisis occurs and their parent ends up in the hospital. At that time, the issue is often forced by a hospital discharge planner who prudently observes that it would be unsafe for the parent to return home. They may recommend living arrangements in a supportive environment, such as a skilled nursing center. Unprepared for this situation, the family is now thrown into chaos.

Eldercare experts highly recommend that adult children and their parents start the conversation about the future early on. Starting the planning process in advance will help make future transitions much easier for everyone involved.

Stella Henry, a registered nurse and author of “The Eldercare Handbook” says that families can avoid unnecessary distress by having regular conversations about what the future holds.

“Make it your problem instead of your parent’s problem,” adds Henry. “If you

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conversation about making a move here in the future.”

Care Conversations is an online resource that can help jumpstart dialogue about care options with an aging parent.

It offers a variety of tips for initiating a discussion on future needs, and covers topics such as early signs that your loved one should no longer live independently, how to handle a crisis, what types of care exist, and how to choose the right care environment. It also hosts a variety of planning tools, including helpful forms for downloading, like Advanced Directives. Care Conversations and other useful resources for families can be found on the website of the Rhode Island Health Care Association at www. rihca.com. At the very least, taking the time to review the information before it’s needed, will help focus your efforts if and when the time comes, to seek a safer living environment for an aging parent.

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say ‘you have to do this, or do that’, you’ll lose them. Instead say something like, ‘Mom, I’m concerned about you; it makes me worried to see you like this.’” According to Henry, nine out of ten parents don’t want to burden their children, and will often respond to this sort of honest communication. “Parents sometimes hide things from their adult children because they don’t want to scare them,” she says. Yet, if you show them that you are trying to be their advocate, adds Henry, and that you are genuinely concerned about their well-being, it can make all the difference.

Encouraging a parent to visit friends in a nursing center, or even volunteer, is a proactive step that can help minimize the anxiety they may feel if they too, may face a move to a similar setting in the future. Adds Jeff Wheeler, Admissions Director for Evergreen House in East Providence, “At Evergreen, we have a full calendar of activities and special events, like concerts and fairs. Once they’re here and see all that’s going on, it often dispels their preconceived notions about nursing homes and it softens the

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PrimeTime | 25

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April 2015

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PrimeTime | 27

Pr i m eTi m e

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spring

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28 | PrimeTime

April brings showers, flowers and the Spring Senior Living Expo!!

April 2015