Boomers d n o y e &B Fairfield County
April 2015
Schedule a tour of the
Greens at Cannondale – treat yourself to the best! p5
B & M Capital
Financial retirement solutions for seniors p9
Synergy Home Care – 24 hour care, wherever home may be p16
Waveny LifeCare Network Celebrating 40 years
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April, 2015
Boomers & Beyond - Fairfield County
Where Main Street is also Memory Lane.
The Village at Waveny provides a therapeutic approach to caring for memory impaired seniors. The familiar, comforting environment of small town Main Street is a site for interaction among our Assisted Living residents, Adult Day Program participants, volunteers, staff, family and friends. The Village is located in New Canaan, Connecticut, where seniors from all areas are welcome. Find out more about everything we have to offer by calling Ginny Carroll at 203.594.5331 or visiting waveny.org.
You don’t have to be an eldercare expert to appreciate continuity in care. M ME
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As your needs and preferences change, we’ve got the solution. At Waveny LifeCare Network, person-centered care is at the heart of our mission. Like a river, our programs, services and residential options flow together fluidly to benefit those we serve. We welcome older adults from all areas. To find out more or arrange for a tour of our award-winning New Canaan campus, call us at 203.594.5331 or visit us online at waveny.org.
Boomers & Beyond - Fairfield County April, 2015
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THE GREENS AT GREENWICH
An AssisTed livinG CommuniTy, We offer A WIDE VARIETY OF ACTIVITIES FOR OUR RESIDENTS
Maintain an active lifestyle while living in a retirement community Here’s how to make sure you stay active: Make It a Priority The biggest factor that determines whether or not people of all ages stay active or not is if they make physical activity a priority in their life. If you want to remain active throughout your retirement years, make it a priority to move to a retirement center that encourages an active lifestyle. Once you have moved to a retirement center that has given you the tools to stay active, take full advantage of the activities that are being offered. Make it a point to schedule physical activity, hobbies, and social interaction into your daily routine. Write down the activities that you plan to participate in and make physical activity and other forms of active living a priority in your life. Make It Social One of the best parts of living in an active adult community is that you never have to participate in physical activity and other activities on your own. It is much more fun to lead a healthy and active lifestyle when you have others surrounding you who are participating in the same activities. In fact, many senior citizens find that they are able to lead a more active lifestyle by moving into an active adult retirement community than they would living on their own because they have others with whom they can share the joys of being active. They also do not need to come up with things to do on their own, but rather than can simply show up to a yoga class, a walking club, or a woodworking class that has already been organized. Keep It Safe While physical activity and other forms of active living are important for people of all ages, there are some forms of physical activity that are not safe for everyone. You can safely lead an active lifestyle by taking things slow when first starting out. An active adult retirement community can help you modify activities so that they fit your specific needs and abilities. Always consult your doctor before beginning strenuous activities that are new to you. Go easy on yourself at first and gradually build up to higher levels of activity when you feel ready.
(This isn’t one of them.)
Whether it’s yoga, music, art or drama therapy, trips to cultural events or a walk in the woods, our memory support programs are tailored to meet the mind, body and spiritual needs of each resident. Call The Greens at Greenwich today to arrange a tour. Because not all assisted living communities are the same
1155 King Street Greenwich, CT 06831
(203) 531-5500 (203) 531-1224 FAX
www.thegreensatgreenwich.com
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April, 2015
Boomers & Beyond - Fairfield County
photos provided
Waveny LifeCare Network: A Compassionate, Comprehensive Continuum of Care Celebrating 40 years of serving the community
On April 22, 2015, Waveny LifeCare Network will celebrate the 40th anniversary of the day its 5-star skilled nursing center, Waveny Care Center, first opened its doors. With US News & World Report recently naming Waveny Care Center among the nation’s best Nursing Homes of 2015 due to its perfect 5-star rating, the nonprofit organization has much to celebrate. Since its 1975 inception, excellence has served as the compass and cornerstone of the Waveny organization’s mission and commitment to the community. “In everything we do, we emphasize person-centered care that tailors services to individual needs and preferences,” said Bill Piper, Waveny’s Chief Executive Officer. “The belief that our elders represent the heart of the community and should be treated with respect and dignity is at the core of Waveny’s history, development and vision for the future.” Perhaps the key to Waveny’s longevity is its careful balance between a proud history and its capacity for reinvention. “Mission-driven and dynamic, Waveny stands the test of time,” said Kristin Sinatra, Waveny’s Director of Marketing. “Always propelled by community support, our mission is truly to adapt nimbly to meet the changing preferences and growing needs of older adults and their families within lower Fairfield County and beyond.” As those senior needs and preferences have morphed and diversified over the past four decades, Waveny has responded proactively, resulting in a history characterized by growth and evolution. Fueled by the community’s generosity and an unpreceded capital campaign, Waveny
opened its world-renowned Village in 2001 – an awardwinning assisted living residence completely dedicated to therapeutic memory care. The following year in 2002, Waveny merged with New Canaan Inn (now simply called The Inn) to broaden its scope of service to include independent living. Always reassessing and revisiting rather than resting on its laurels, Waveny created brandnew couples suites at both The Village and The Inn just this past year in another act of reinvention. Most recently, Waveny has focused much attention toward broadening its community-based services. “Homeand community-based services allow us to serve people beyond our walls and physical footprint,” said Piper. 2012 saw the launch of Waveny Home Healthcare, and 2013 the introduction of Waveny’s companion and homemaker service called Waveny at Home. Also in 2013, the organization collectively rebranded as Waveny LifeCare Network. “LifeCare is a powerful word,” said Sinatra. “It implies so much about what we are and what we do as a continuum of care with simplicity and precision.” Also underpinning the non-profit organization’s aptitude for delivering upon state-of-the-art best practices is its powerful penchant for fundraising, “friend-raising” and development. Waveny’s ongoing efforts to continually improve itself are largely driven by community support through grants, fundraising events and annual appeals. Recent results include a 750 kW generator powerful enough to light up the entire main campus, a network-wide transition to Point of Service or “Restaurant Style” Dining, the implementation of an IV therapy pro-
gram at the Care Center to accommodate trends in growing acuity, as well as a series of comprehensive refurbishments and upgrades at the Care Center, The Village and The Inn. The organization recently hosted its 7th annual Mixed Paddle Platform Tennis tournament, and is actively preparing for its 13th annual “Swinging for Seniors,” Golf & Tennis outing that raises funds for Waveny’s resident aid program and helps to support those who cannot afford the full cost of their care. Without a doubt, the final piece of the puzzle and secret to Waveny’s success is its talented staff as well as the hundreds of volunteers who collectively donate more than 15,000 service hours throughout the organization each year. As it turns 40, Waveny LifeCare Network enthusiastically reflects upon a decorated past, an exciting present and a dynamic future. Based in New Canaan, Connecticut, Waveny LifeCare Network provides a comprehensive continuum of care to serve the growing needs of older adults from all areas. Waveny is a not-for-profit organization that offers independent living at The Inn, assisted living for people with Alzheimer’s and memory loss at The Village, and skilled nursing at Waveny Care Center. It also includes the Brown Geriatric Evaluation Clinic, an Adult Day Program that offers flexible weekday hours and transportation, inpatient and outpatient Rehabilitation Services, respite programs and community-based services including Waveny Home Healthcare, Waveny at Home and Geriatric Care Management. For information call (203) 1-855-WAVENY-1 or visit www.waveny.org.
Boomers & Beyond - Fairfield County April, 2015
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Grocery Shopping Tips for Boomers How to get the most bang for your buck when grocery shopping for yourself You probably no longer need to cook big meals for you and your family, which can be frustrating when you’re trying to buy grocery items that don’t come in bulk. However, there are ways to shop smart, ensuring you're getting the most bang for your buck when purchasing food. One thing you don't need to worry about is nonperishable items. Picking up a box of pasta that serves eight people will last a while, so a box of spaghetti will not go to waste if you leave some of the uncooked noodles in a sealed container. Of course, a large part of eating healthy is incorporating fruit and vegetables into your diet, but you may be a little nervous to purchase these items, as they go bad quickly. First, it's a good idea to research what fruits and veggies are in season, as this may increase shelf life. Additionally, you need to know how certain vegetables can be stored. For example, onions, potatoes and garlic should be kept out of the refrigerator and directly out of sunlight, while carrots, peas, corn and cauliflower can be frozen after they are cut up and boiled. These kinds of tips will ensure that you're not throwing away more food than you eat.
Live Better
It’s time to…
T REAT YOURSELF TO THE BEST. ll your life you worked hard to be the best. The best parent, the best provider, and the best professional you could be. You put the needs of others before your own. Now isn’t it time to put yourself first? Why not treat yourself to the best at The Greens at Cannondale? Our assisted living community offers spacious living accommodations, filled with all the amenities you deserve; three restaurant-style meals in our elegant dining area, daily housekeeping, personal care and the opportunity to challenge yourself through one of our many daily activities and educational opportunities that will expand your interests and your mind at the same time, helping you to become the best version of yourself possible. Call today to schedule a tour so we can show you what it means to Live Better.
Located on nine lush acres, The Greens at Cannondale stands out in a class all by itself. Each day we strive to exceed our well-known reputation of excellence in senior living throughout Fairfield County.
Live Better
435 Danbury Road Wilton, CT 06897 203.761.1191 www.thegreensatcannondale.com
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April, 2015
Boomers & Beyond - Fairfield County
Advertiser’s Index
Our View
B&M Capital...........................................................................9
We have finally come to the end of what was a considerably harsh winter and that’s putting it lightly. The cold weather likely kept you indoors more than you liked. At times, you may have even felt like a prisoner in your own home. However, now that spring is here, it’s time for you to get out about! Hooray! It’s very important for baby boomers and seniors to enjoy the great outdoors. Being in the sun is a great source of vitamin D, which can prevent cancer, help inflammation and build up your immune system. And did you know that just 15 minutes of sunlight can help your body create your daily recommended dose of vitamin D? This sun healthy vitamin can also help to keep bones strong. And did you know? Staying in the dark all day can have a negative effect on your sleeping patterns. Regular exposure to natural sunlight helps to regulate your body’s internal clock, helping you sleep better. And get this? Numerous studies have shown that spending time outside can reduce feelings of anxiety and depression. In fact, those who have regular access to a green space (a park, forest or pond) tend to feel more relaxed and happier overall. After this winter, we are sure you didn’t need a nudge to get outside, but just in case remember: No matter what your age, getting outside is easy. Take a daily walk, plant a garden, or simply move regular activities or hobbies such as reading, writing, painting, knitting or even socializing outdoors. Breathe in the benefits of fresh air and resist the urge to stay inside. With that, we wish you a hearty…Happy Spring! Get in touch at info@healthcarenewspaper.com.
ColumbiaDoctors............................................................................15 Glen Island Center for Nursing and Rehabilitation............................11 The Greens at Cannondale..............................................................5 The Greens at Greenwich...............................................................3 Masonicare at Ashlar Village.............................................................7 SYNERGY HomeCare....................................................................16 Talking Alternatives.........................................................................14 The Wartburg................................................................................13 Waveny Lifecare Network................................................................2
Fairfield County
Boomers d & Beyon
845-534-7500 • (fax) 845-534-0055 Info@HealthcareNewspaper.com PUBLISHER Joseph P. Belsito (Joe@healthcarenewspaper.com) ••• GENERAL MANAGER James Stankiewicz (Jim@healthcarenewspaper.com) ••• MARKETING DIRECTOR Gregory W. Buff (Greg@belsito.com) ••• MANAGING EDITOR Cathryn Burak (Cathy@healthcarenewspaper.com) ••• SENIOR SALES CONSULTANT Maureen Rafferty Linell (MRLinell@charter.net) ••• MARKETING EXECUTIVE Anthony Mairo (Anthony@healthcarenewspaper.com) ••• CIRCULATION Michelle Belsito (Michelle@healthcarenewspaper.com) ••• SENIOR CORRESPONDENTS Brendan Coyne John Jordan
Corporate Information Healthcare News - Fairfield County, CT edition - Vol. 2 No. 4 - is published monthly, 12 times a year by Belsito Communications, Inc., 1 Ardmore Street, New Windsor, NY 12553. Postage Paid at New Windsor, NY and additional mailing offices. Postmaster: Send address changes to Healthcare Newspaper, 1 Ardmore Street, New Windsor, NY, 12553. No financial responsibility is assumed by this newspaper to publish a display, classified, or legal ad or for typographical errors except of reprinting that part of the ad which was omitted or in error. Omissions or errors must be brought to the attention of the newspaper during the same month of publication.
Jim Stankiewicz, General Manager
Next Month in Boomers & Beyond… Stories of love The Mom connection
Arthritis Awareness Month Leading cause of disability in America
Improving Vision Latest vision technology to improve eye care National Critical Care Awareness Month
Boomers & Beyond - Fairfield County April, 2015
Stay young and healthy… naturally Seemingly everywhere we look, there's another advertisement touting a pill or a supplement that can reverse aging or otherwise defeat wrinkles. Never mind that very few of these have actually been proven to work and a lot can be costly, there's a risk that they can be unhealthy, too. In fact, one recent study found that just one out of every three multivitamins actually has the content on the back of the label. Some have too little vitamins, while others have too much. So instead of trying things that haven't even been verified by the FDA, you may want to look for anti-aging methods through more natural beauty practices. One of the best products for keeping away wrinkles? Sunscreen. Anyone who is going to spend some time outside should apply sunscreen. Besides the risk of cancer, exposure to the sun can cause liver spots and premature wrinkles. While some people believe that their make-up can protect them from harsh sunshine, Boomers & Beyond recommends using sunscreen as well. Maintaining physical health is the very best way to remain feeling young. While not everyone will be going to the Olympics, senior or otherwise, remaining focused and consistent with exercise efforts can be an important
I ND EPEN DEN T
way to maintain strength, flexibility and health. According to some studies, it is possible to have as little as a five percent drop in cardiovascular fitness from your 20s to your 50s, if consistency is maintained. Looking to keep your brain young, too? Exercise fills that gap as well. Researchers recently concluded that regular physical fitness can improve decision-making skills, memory and attention after a reviewof more than 100 different studies examining the effects of a workout. Having trouble getting started? Experts recommend using machines that promote low-impact activity. Resistance training with rows or free weights can be a great way to break a sweat and get moving. Ellipticals have also become popular in recent years, because they don't cause as much pounding on the joints as a treadmill, but you can get just as much of a workout. Just remember to stay away from any of those so-called magic pills and other fads.
LI VI N G
“W “We We loved this t apartment nt fr rom the minute min nute we walked walkeed in.” in.” from Not wanting to comp compromise, promise, Myr Myron on and Jos Josephine sephine weree looking for a co wer continuing ontinuing car caree rretirement etiremeent community that of offered feered spacious living ins inside side and out. The perfect fit: a two-bedr two-bedroom oom plus de den en Notch Masonicare Hill apartment on M Masonicare at Ashlar Village’s Villlage’s scenic campus in W Wallingford. Wallingfor a allingfor d. Our rresidents esidents have a variety of accommoda accommodations ations to choose fr from, om, a full fulll menu of amenities fo forr car carefree efree unparalleled healthcaree — all on living and unparalle eled healthcar n one explore campus. Come explo ore us in person to see how h we could ld be b the th perfect f t fit for f you, ttoo!! Contact C t ctt us att Contac 203-679-6425. Ask about our Spring Move-in Special on n available Notch h Hill Apartments and Villa Vill i la Homes. Home es. A $12,000 value!
www.AshlarVillage.org www .Ashla arV Village.o illage.org 74 Cheshire Road, Wallingford Cheshire Roa ad, Wallingfor W allingford offf Rou Route Conveniently located of ute 15 in central Connecticut.
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April, 2015
Boomers & Beyond - Fairfield County
Boomers
in the Garden Part 2
In the last edition of Boomers & Beyond, we shared tips about planning a garden’s fundamental design, whether it's a community project or a private one. In Part 2, we'll move on to talking about how and where to cultivate your plants. Boomers & Beyond suggests that variety is key - having an array of different buds can help ensure that the garden stays beautiful throughout the seasons and shows a nice array of flowers and shurbs. In fact, diversity is also important, because a garden with many types of flowers acts as a breeding ground for healthy bacteria and bugs, like earthworms, that will help the plants grow. Aim to design your garden like a “decorative display” and really make the space reflect your personality. Think about a few items that you can place in the foliage to give it a more personal feel, whether you choose a statue or an antique wheel. Finally, you want to think about how you'll protect all of your hard work from pests like rabbits and deer. There are many different animal repellents, but some can give off an unpleasant odor or take a lot of work to re-apply. Do your research carefully and make sure to ask a clerk at the hardware store about the particular scent emitted by the product. In Part 3 of this series, we’ll share final tips for making your garden shine!
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For more information contact: Jim Stankiewicz General Manager
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& Beyond
Finding fun on a fixed income
Who qualifies for a Life Insurance Settlements or an Advanced Benefit Loan? At B & M Capital Inc., we advise on the various financial benefits of selling or taking a loan against your life insurance policy either through a life settlement or an advanced benefit loan. When we speak to individuals or professionals at seminars and conferences, they are amazed to learn how old the life settlement industry, about 100 years, and how many financial institution own or invest in this type of business. Yet, the greatest misconception in educating potential clients and professionals is, who are the people that qualify for a life settlement or advanced benefit loan? The answer to all of them is anyone who has obtained the age of 65 or older. They must be of retirement age, not necessary retired. They can still be actively working; actually, some of these people are still active members in the work force.
The words “fixed income” and “fun” seemingly don’t go together, especially for retirees, who have left the workforce behind and now live on things such as pensions, Social Security, savings, and/or investments. The key to a co-existence of fun and fixed income is to make sure that you save money on the necessities in order to have enough for the things you want to do. Translation: You need to know why it’s important to know how to make a budget on a fixed income. Cutting Expenses The problem with many budgets is not the presence of big-ticket expenses, but rather the process of getting nickel and dimed to with smaller item that you don’t even use anymore. Sit down with a list of your expenses, and go over them, item by item, asking yourself “Do we really use this?” For instance, do you have a cell phone and a land line? Come to think of it, do you actually use all of the features of your cable/Internet service or phone plan? Are your kids still on your insurance (health, auto, pet, pick one!), and if they’re grown up, then why are you still paying for them? Go for the discounts Joining something like AARP opens the door to many moneysaving opportunities on not only fun stuff, but also necessities. There’s an array of senior discounts out there, for everything from tires to phone plans to dining out, just waiting for you to take advantage of them. You can end up saving on travel, dining, and accommodations, which means that you don’t have to give up vacations. Saving For A Rainy Day Saving on a fixed income is rather difficult, but it can be done if you end up saving significant money from trimming the fat out of your household budget. Should you be successful in slashing expenses, it’s a wise idea to take a portion of that money and put it aside as an emergency backup. So, even when an emergency expense does arise, it will have less of an impact on you.
The point that I am trying to get across is, today’s seniors are very different than what society shows us or what we perceive in our minds. Seniors, who are looking for other financial sources to find income or raise fund do not have to be hospitalized, terminally ill or destitute. There are many seniors who take advantage of our services that are in generally good health and financially sound. Here are some reasons why seniors take advantage of our services:
1. They are outliving their retirement funds due to the advancement in medicine, change in life style,
and the cost of living in the Northeast. Most seniors that live in the tri state area, enjoy being close to the greatest City in the world and do not want to leave. They have made friends, families, memories, and built a life that is unique to the Northeast. I know this to be true because; this is what I was told by my own parents, who were not born in this region.
2. Seniors are still very shrewd investors. Once I explain to seniors
how much value their life insurance contract could be possibly worth. They are quick to act. First we start with basic underwriting requirements and we submit the necessary paperwork. No cost to my client, a potential offer is then offered by a top-tier financial company. In a three to four week span, my clients are amazed on how easy and financially rewarding this type of transaction can be.
B & M Capital is a structured settlement company specializing in the purchasing of life insurance, annuities, structured settlements and offering Advanced Benefit Loans.
Free consultation! Please contact us for more information:
203-296-4852 Isn’t it time to explore another financial option?
Visit us online at www.bnmcapital.com And LinkedIn
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April, 2015
Boomers & Beyond - Fairfield County
Leadership can transform the tone of assisted living by Lois Alcosser
The influence of the executive director of an assisted living residence is crucial. It’s a job full of challenges. Being a “people person” is essential. Does he or she stop and talk with residents? Does he or she really care about each resident and realize that everyone is different, has had different experiences, different personal histories. It’s almost like being a mother/father/sister/brother to each resident. The Greens at Cannondale, in Wilton, CT, recently changed their executive director and the results are tangible. Andrew Krochko (known to everyone as Andy) has been in the peoplecaring business all his working life, three decades of experience, from recreation leader to administrator of Wilton Meadows Rehabilitation and Health Care Center, during which time he transformed this “nursing home” to a busy, outstanding short-term rehab center as well as a notable, forward-thinking residence for all levels of dementia care. Mr. Krochko believes that knowing each resident, really knowing them, is essential. “The challenge is to recognize that residents of an assisted living facility are from all walks of life, different locations, different lifestyles. I find it fascinating to be in a distinctive community of older adults who each have their own ways of dealing with life. Each resident here becomes part of a new family. Each one deserves individual attention. What are their likes and dislikes? What makes them happy? Do they need lots of affectionate care or do they want independence and privacy? “That’s where the sensitivity of the staff comes in. Do they understand the emotional lives of each resident? True caring entails knowledge of the sources of anx-
Photography by Gretchen Yengst
iety and the sources of joy. I want this to be a goal for every member of The Greens staff, because the attitude and personalities of the staff makes the difference between feeling at home or feeling abandoned. It’s not a mystery. It requires the maintenance of an atmosphere which is open and inclusive. I plan to have staff meetings which are informal and inclusive, where discussions are welcome, without intimidation or hesitancy speaking up. I want the entire staff to realize that their observations are valuable in order to keep the quality of our care superior. “Speaking up, discussing problems, tackling them is the goal. Being concerned is a gift,
because it means something can be done to fix things. The key word is TRUST. “ Mr. Krochko believes that this quality of openness should also extend to relationships with families. What families are most concerned about are: safety, the assurance of appropriate nursing intervention when necessary, and the availability of a variety of activities that are opportunities to learn, to participate, to make friends, whether it’s bingo or American history, bridge or gardening. “We’re aiming for more than the basics. The word is ‘connection.’ Whether it’s achieved through touch or conversation, it’s needed by everyone who lives or works here.”
Mr. Krochko has been part observer/part detective, in order to see and hear what’s really happening. “ I think that those who serve meals should know when Mrs. Jones’ favorite dessert Is on the menu. We’re known for our gourmet meals. I’d like family members to come for lunch or dinner and let me know, honestly, what they think of the food. Is it as superb as we think it is? Or was the soup only lukewarm? Nothing in life is perfect, but unless there’s a free, open atmosphere, how will we ever know what could be made better?” Kristen Johnson is The Greens Admissions Counselor. She is the first one to meet and greet the sons, daughters, husbands, wives
who are looking for the right place to care for the special person who needs assisted living. “I listen to each family member and put myself in their shoes as best I can. I try to make families feel comfortable enough to be totally honest about the needs and special issues that may exist. I don’t consider myself a sales person. I’m a guide to finding the right sort of care for each future resident. “The Greens at Cannondale has an enviable reputation. We make residents and families happy. It’s as simple (and as complex) as that.” The Greens at Cannondale, 435 Danbury Rd. Wilton, CT 06897 203-761-1191. Please see our website: www.thegreensatcannondale.com
Managing money the Boomer Way: Four money management tips
Boomers & Beyond - Fairfield County
April, 2015
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Cash is king Your kids and grandkids may be caught up with credit cards and, unfortunately, credit card debt. But you know better. That’s why you use cash in favor of plastic. Using real money keeps you aware of how much you're spending and how much you have left. Plus, you can't accumulate debt if don't have continuous access to it. Break out your jar You know how the old saying goes: A penny saved is a penny earned. Boomers & Beyond suggests stashing your loose change in a jar at the end of every day. Not only is this a relatively painless form of saving, but it adds up quickly. Use the money for a date night, put it in the bank or purchase something you might need. Spend less money OK, here we go again. Here is another old saying: Keeping up with the Jones.” But as you know, you don’t have to keep up with the Jones. Spending less money and more wisely usually comes down to one's core values. Often, people, especially the younger generation, spend money they don't have to buy things they don't need in order to impress people they don't even like Wise baby boomers would never forfeit their futures to keep up with the Jones. Less is more Generation X and Y, and to a certain extent the Millennials, have a different definition of "getting the most bang for their buck." Yes, these shoppers value quantity--and they often sacrifice quality to get it. But the money-savvy baby boomer knows that buying cheap equates to buying more often--which, in turn, means spending more over the long haul. Cheap products, whether vehicles, clothing, electronics, or anything else you plan to keep, wear out sooner than their better-made counterparts. With this in mind, you may need to take the grandkids shopping and show them how it's done, Boomer style.
5-STAR Government Rated Four Consecutive Years
★★★★★ Skilled Nursing Care on Beautiful Long Island Sound • Short Term Rehabilitation • Subacute Care • Long Term Care • Alzheimer/Dementia Care • Respite Services We invite you to join us for lunch and take a tour of our facility
490 Pelham Road • New Rochelle, NY, 10805 www.gicnr.com • email: info@gicnr.com
(914) 636-2800
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April, 2015
Boomers & Beyond - Fairfield County
Baby Boomers are changing the face of addiction in older adults Paula M. Morrissette, PsyD, LMHC, LADC-1, Senior Clinician, AdCare Hospital Prescription and illicit drug abuse among older adults is on the rise. Although alcohol remains the primary substance of choice in this age group, a growing number of older adults entering treatment report prescription medication, heroin and cocaine to be their preferred substances of abuse. The marked increase in drug abuse among older adults has been attributed largely to the aging baby boomers, many of whom are unique in terms of their exposure to and comfort with the use of illicit substances. Many of today’s older adults may have experimented with illicit substances in their adolescence and early adulthood. Many may have continued to use illicit substances, such as marijuana, throughout their lives. Because boomers tend to be comfortable with protest and rebellion, they may also be less likely as older adults to acquiesce to prohibitions against the use of substances, even when these warnings come from physicians or other authority figures. The trend of drug abuse among older adults is anticipated to escalate as the number of “baby boomers” who turn age 65 is expected to reach over 70,000,000 by 2030, according to recent U.S. census data. Increased Sensitivity Physiologically, older adults are more sensitive to substances and are therefore at greater risk for substance-related disease and injury. The misuse of prescription medications, particularly when combined with alcohol or other drugs, can contribute to increased falls, confusion, disorientation, medical complications, and possible death. Moreover, the issues of retirement, loss of friends or loved ones, physical illness and decreased mobility further complicate quality of life for many older adults, and are common triggers for the escalation of problematic substance abuse. Identifying “Red Flags” for Substance Abuse The lack of careful screening often compromises the early identification and intervention of problematic substance use in older adults. It is not unusual for family members, physicians, and other healthcare providers to mistake signs of substance abuse such as changes in memory, concentration and attention, mood, appetite, sleep, energy, and interest levels for issues related to aging. Although these symptoms do not confirm at-risk substance use, they should be viewed as “red flags” signaling the need for a more direct assessment of substance use behaviors and monitoring of the home environment.
The trend of drug abuse among older adults is anticipated to escalate as the number of “baby boomers” who turn age 65 is expected to reach over 70,000,000 by 2030, according to recent U.S. census data…
Intervening Effectively Denial, feelings of shame, and embarrassment often contribute to the resistance and defensiveness exhibited by adults of any age when questioned about their level of substance use. It is important for family members, physicians, and treatment providers to not only develop the skills necessary to accurately identify problem behaviors but also to be able to effectively enhance the individual’s motivation to seek and accept help. Heightened awareness and communication of concern and information among family members and providers is the most helpful intervention for older adults who are abusing substances. Another useful intervention is for older patients to obtain their care and all of their prescriptions through a single provider and pharmacy. Above all, it is imperative for concerned others and caregivers to actively search for the red flags of substance abuse in older adults and to recognize that treatment works and can greatly improve the quality of life in people of all ages.
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April, 2015
Boomers & Beyond - Fairfield County & Beyond Westchester April, 2015
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# ( and % Adult +#* Family $!#. Mediation: ! *!&% A Solution ! Elder # Conflict for Family %( %of # $ *the I# met* a $neighbor mine /% *%" %+* *the %* other( day who told # me about " # )she is) having ,$ * her( &(% problem with )* () Her( #%* * eld" )sisters. mother( is) '+ quite ("/ and $ )* "" "living , $ alone "%$ in $ her( erly still ( home. %# My / $neighbor %( feels ") "large *that* *this) "living , $ arrangement (( $ # $* is) +$) %( her( #%* $ *the unsafe for mother( and "large ( house %+) is) a financial $ $ " drain ( $ %$ on *the #%* $ *the daughters. + * () mother( and / $neighbor %( is) 78, her( #%* My mother( is) $ her( )sisters )* () are ( all "" in $ 100, and *their( # " * 70’s. 0) These ) dis) mid-late ( # $*) among #%$ )siblings " $ ) are ( agreements %##%$ and $ although "* %+ *these ) ages) common ( certainly (* $"/ higher( *than $ *the are $%(# * %) % ( $ norm, those who are facing *this) )situation *+ * %$ at* "late * )* $ "life are ( stages) in $%* ( as) %$ $! not as) (rare one # might* *think. %&" are ( "living , $ "%$ $ People longer( and, ( '+ $*"/ %- )seniors $ %() are ( frequently, widowed (re- # ((/ $ at* "later * ( ages, ) creat( * marrying $ complicated %#&" * )situation *+ * %$ for %( *the ing $ blended " $ # "/ aging family. $/ %of +) $ (remember # # ( %+( Many us can our ( $ & ( $*) being $ cared ( for %( by / grandparents $+ " ( and $ extended .* $ #" ) nuclear families. $ %(*+$ * "/ circumstances ( +#)* $ ) have , Unfortunately $ $/ adult +"* children " ( $ $% changed. Many no "%$ , close "%) *% %# and $ longer( "live to home # $/ are ( -%(! $ %+*) many working outside *the %# # ! $ it* #%( +"* *% home, making more difficult to ( %( & ( $*) * %# ( care for parents at home. Regard"less )) %of *the (reasons )%$) and $ circum( +# )* $ ) )siblings " $ ) %often * $ do % $%* stances, not ( %$ % ) for %( *the care ( agree on *the choices %of *their( &parents. ( $*) Frequent ( '+ $* issues ))+ ) ( )safety, */ including $ "+ $ )+ * " "liv, are suitable $ arrangements (( $ # $*) and $ *the ability " */ ing *% ( , finances, $ $ ) !kind $ %of care ( to drive, $needed, and $ % "" ))+# who will assume (responsibility )&%$) " */ for %( *the care. ( One $ %&* %$ for %( (resolving )%", $ *these ) differ( option $ ) *that* is) becoming %# $ #%( ences more &%&+" * %$ When $ *the popular( is) # mediation. )siblings " $ ) can $ $% ) +)) *the no "%$ longer( discuss &(% " #) %( ) %$) *the problems or (reach decisions, &participation (* & * %$ %of a $neutral, +*( " *third ( &party (*/ can $ get* *the conversation %$, () * %$ % $ Mediation * %$ is) a &(% )) *that* going. process ""%-) all "" *the &participants (* & $*) *% ( allows to ar(rive , at* *their( %-$ %$) (result)+"* own )%"+* solutions, $ in $ a $necessary )) (/ &" $ %of action. * %$ ing plan
* %$ is) $%* ( &/ and $ Mediation not *therapy % ) $%* ** #&* *% does not attempt to get* *% to *the (%%* root )*%(/ %of family # "/ dynamics; /$ # ) history * ( it* is) an $ issue-oriented ))+ %( $* (rather, )) *that* helps "&) *% )%", &(% process to (resolve " #) *through (%+ %##+$ &(% problems communica-
%$ (rather * ( *than $ confrontation %$ (%$* * %$ *tion $ *% )*%( and $ &( ) (, and to (restore preserve # "/ (relationships. " * %$) &) family %( #%( $ %(# * %$ &" ) For more information, please ) * --* "! $ "* ($ * , ) $ * ,visit www.talkingalternatives.net "" 646-682-9319. %( or call
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