Boomers
Fairfield County
November 2017
d n o y e B &
Thanksgiving Activities
for Seniors in Assisted Living
Waveny Walks to End Alzheimer’s p7
p16-17
New England Young at Heart Senior Fall Ball p15
7 Facts you need to know about National Alzheimer’s Awareness Month p12-13
Boomers & Beyond - Fairfield County
November, 2017
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Wonderful things to do in November Fairfield Social Services is collecting excess Halloween candy to support Operation Gratitude.
Veterans Day Luncheon and Celebration
Docent Led Tour of the Pequot Library
Lenny and Joe’s Fishtale in New Haven with a stop at Knights of Columbus Museum
Each year Operation Gratitude sends more than 200,000 care packages filled with candy, entertainment, hygiene, and handmade items to Veterans, First Responders, New Recruits, Wounded Heroes, their Care Givers, and to individually named U.S. service members deployed overseas and their families waiting at home. Donations due by 11/10. Drop off at the Bigelow Center.
Take a guided tour, led by a library trained docent, and can explore the exhibitions through close examination of materials and lively discussion. Pequot Library is housed in a historic building, framed by a Great Lawn, and located on over three acres in the charming village of Southport in Fairfield, CT. A small gem to be discovered, Pequot Library is a vibrant programming library where patrons arrive for high - impact cultural events and leave enriched and inspired. Date: Wednesday, 11/01 Time: 10:00 a.m.
Veterans Painted Heart Project
The festivities kick off at 11:00 with Patriotic music performed by the Sedgwick Sisters. We are very excited to welcome the ROTC Joint Color Guard from Yale University and Sacred Heart University. Connecticut Department of Veterans Affairs Commissioner Sean Connelly will be our keynote speaker this year. Complimentary lunch for Veterans and their families. Date: Thursday, 11/09 Time: 11:00 a.m.
The mission of Hearts of Hope is a simple one - to provide service to those who experience trauma and loss through art, educational workshops, and healing outreach. Join the mothers and daughters of SASO (Scholars and Athletes Serving Others) for a morning of painting hearts to distribute at the Veterans Day luncheon. Moderated by Connie Lester of Hearts of Hope. Date: Tuesday, 11/07 Time: 11:00 Limit 15
Renowned for its annual Christmas exhibitions, the Museum features world class exhibitions of artwork and history, particularly those representing the heritage of Catholicism. It also maintains a permanent gallery of the K of C’s annals, as well as one dedicated to its founder (and sainthood candidate), Father Michael J. McGivney (1852 - 1890). Its permanent collections of Christopher Columbus and papal memorabilia are also on regular exhibition. Date: Wednesday, 11/29 Time: 10:00
November is Alzheimer’s Awareness Month. Join Dr. Srinath Kadimi, MD, a vascular neurologist who practices in Fairfield, for a discussion of what’s new in Alzheimers research and treatment. Researchers are always looking for new ways to treat Alzheimer's. Dr. Kadimi highlights new and promising discoveries in the treatment of Alzheimer’s. He is affiliated with St. Vincent's Medical Center. He is Board Certified in both Neurology and Vascular Neurology. Dr. Kadimi is part of the Associated Neurologists Group. Date: Wednesday, 11/15 Time: 10:30 a.m. Cost: No charge
What’s New in the Research and Treatment of Alzheimer’s Disease?
BIGELOW CENTER FOR SENIOR ACTIVITIES 100 Mona Terrace, Fairfield, CT 06824 (203) 256-3166 Registration Required for all Programs. Space is limited. www.fairfieldct.org/bigelowcenter
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Boomers & Beyond - Fairfield County
About Shine a Light November, 2017
Shine a Light on Lung Cancer events are hosted by health care facilities during the month of November as part of Lung Cancer Awareness Month activities. These events bring together those living with lung cancer, their families and the health care teams at hospitals across the country. Shine a Light events are educational events for the lung cancer community in your area. The program typically consists of speakers from your faculty who can share updates on treatment options, clinical trials and support programs and lung cancer survivors and caregivers whose stories provide perspective and hope to those dealing with a lung cancer diagnosis. Many also include a question and answer period so attendees can ask your experts any questions they may not be able to ask at appointments. Shine a Light events are also intended to honor all of those who are living with lung cancer and those we have lost to the disease. There are flashlights provided and each event has a moment of remembrance. Flashlights are turned on and we literally shine a light on those touched by lung cancer. Many times there are honor walls or balloon launches as well. We encourage those who host a Shine a Light event to get creative! We provide the tools and materials to make it as easy as possible for you to make your Shine a Light successful. Contact Maggie, mwalsh@lungcanceralliance.org or 202-742-1893 with any questions. Stamford Hospital Shine a Light Event Date: November 14, 2017 Event Time: 6:00 – 8:00 PM Event Location: Madonia Restaurant Event Address: 1297 Long Ridge Road, Stamford, CT 06902 Event Organizer: Melissa Ronk, mronk@stamhealth.org
Please contact Melissa Ronk for any questions or to RSVP for the event. 203-276-2273.
Treatment of the older lung cancer patient
The majority of people diagnosed with lung cancer are over 65. Older people experience pain differently and their lung cancer treatment may be complicated by other health concerns. Other factors such as sensitivity to the toxicity of chemotherapy may require special consideration. However, research shows that age alone should not dictate lung cancer treatment options.
Am I At Risk?
Increasing age is a risk factor for many cancers, including lung cancer. The average age in the United States for a lung cancer diagnosis is around 70 years of age. About 10% of lung cancer cases occur in people younger than 50 years old.
Lung cancer screening is recommended for those at high risk (based on age and smoking history). The test is covered by most health insurance plans and Medicare. Your risk for lung cancer is unique to you, as is your decision whether or not to be screened. Source:www.lungcanceralliance.org/
Pneumonia Facts
By Theresa Santoro, MSN, RN, CHCA President & CEO, RVNA
Pneumonia is an infection of the lungs caused by viruses, bacteria or fungi which can result in mild to severe illness in people of all ages. It can often be prevented and can usually be treated. Pneumonia is common in young children, but older adults are at greater risk for serious infection and death. In the U.S., about 1 million people annually seek hospital care due to pneumonia, and there are about 50,000 deaths from the infection, the majority being adults. Most of the deaths could be prevented with vaccines and appropriate antibiotic or antiviral treatment. Common signs of pneumonia include cough, fever and difficulty breathing. Certain people are more likely to become ill with pneumonia: adults 65 and older, children younger than 5 years old, people with underlying medical conditions like asthma, diabetes or heart disease, and those who smoke. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend pneumonia vaccinations for all babies and children younger than 2 years old, all adults 65 years and older, and people between ages 2 and 64 who have underlying medical conditions. There are two types of pneumonia vaccine available. Prevnar 13 is appropriate for all three categories. Pneumovax 23 is appropriate for adults 65 and older, people ages 2 to 64 with certain medical conditions and adults who smoke. Both vaccines are readily available at the RVNA Center for Exceptional Care at 27 Governor Street on a walkin basis from Monday to Friday, 9:00am to 4:00pm, as well as on Thursday evenings and Saturday mornings by appointment. The pneumonia vaccines are also available at RVNA flu clinics in the community. For more information, call RVNA at 203 438-5555.
Is home for people diagnosed with some form of dementia or memory impairment. Our philosophy of care centers on the whole person; body, mind, and spirit. We understand that each individual is unique and is deserving of dignity and respect. We celebrate their stories and experiences everyday. 1155 King Street, Greenwich, CT 06830 • 203-531-5500 • www.thegreensatgreenwich.com
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November, 2017
Boomers & Beyond - Fairfield County
Advertiser’s Index
ColumbiaDoctors.....................................................................................20 The Greens at Greenwich........................................................................5 VNA of Hudson Valley........................................................................19 Waveny Lifecare Network.......................................................................2
Boomers
Fairfield County
& Beyond
845-534-7500 • (fax) 845-534-0055 Info@HealthcareNewspaper.com
PUBLISHER
Joseph P. Belsito Joe@belsito.com
••• GENERAL MANAGER
Nancy Sorbella
Nancy@healthcarenewsmagazine.com
••• MARKETING DIRECTOR
Our View
By Nancy Sorbella
GENERAL MANAGER
Why do we show up and do what we do every month? Because we understand the many challenges and benefits of healthy aging in our area. We all have family, friends and neighbors who are boomers and beyond who inspire us every day, lead by example and age with grace and joy. Our monthly content is carefully curated to support you in your pursuit of living your healthiest life at any age. We are grateful to be part of your journey. Please let us know how we are doing. We are only as good as our latest issue. We welcome your thoughts, ideas and feedback. Get in touch with us at info@healthcarenewspaper.com.
Gregory W. Buff
Greg@belsito.com
••• MARKETING CONSULTANT
Anthony Mairo
Anthony@healthcarenewsmagazine.com
••• MANAGING EDITOR
Cathryn Burak
Cathy@healthcarenewsmagazine.com
••• SENIOR SALES CONSULTANT
Maureen Rafferty Linell
Next Month Retirement Communities Finding the best for your loved ones
MRLinell@charter.net
Home Care for the Holiday Making your holiday safe and special
Michelle@healthcarenewsmagazine.com
Financial Planning Managing your retirement
••• CIRCULATION
Michelle Belsito
Corporate Information
Healthcare News - Fairfield County, CT edition - Vol. 4 No. 11 - 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.
Diabetes Latest medical breakthroughs
Waveny Walks to End Alzheimer’s Boomers & Beyond - Fairfield County
November, 2017
Waveny LifeCare Network’s 2017 Walk to End Alzheimer’s team, the “Waveny Walkers,” raised essential funds for the Alzheimer’s Association that will be used for care and support services for people with Alzheimer’s disease.
Waveny LifeCare Network employees, volunteers and family members helped fight Alzheimer’s disease by participating in this year’s annual “Walk to End Alzheimer’s” at Calf Pasture Beach in Norwalk on Sunday, October 8. Held annually at more than 600 sites nationwide, the Association’s Walk is the world’s largest event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s care, support and research. Waveny’s team has participated in the three-mile walk since its inception 21 years ago. Funds raised through donations and sponsorships support the Alzheimer’s Association Connecticut Chapter, and stay in the community to fund essential care and support services for people with Alzheimer’s. “It was a rainy day, but the weather didn’t matter to anyone who came to support the cause,” said Rachel Brunetti, LMSW, Waveny’s Director of Social Services who served as the team’s captain for the first time this year. “I think I was most impressed by the camaraderie among everyone who participated. There was a genuine sense of unity in coming together to share in such an important effort. We were united in enthusiasm and joy, but also in quiet moments of silence and reflection. It was a deeply moving experience.”
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provided
The Waveny team joined scores of walkers from throughout Fairfield County at Calf Pasture Beach in support of medical research to improve treatments and find a cure for Alzheimer’s disease. Waveny’s team is especially passionate about this mission given the dedicated, therapeutic care Waveny provides to patients, residents and participants with Alzheimer’s disease at Waveny Care Center, The Village – Waveny’s innovative assisted living residence 100% dedicated to memory care, and in Waveny’s Adult Day Program. Waveny LifeCare Network provides a comprehensive continuum of healthcare to serve the changing needs of older adults from all areas. Waveny is a non-profit organization that offers independent living at The Inn, assisted living and respite care for people with memory impairment at The Village, and skilled nursing, inpatient and outpatient Rehabilitation Services at Waveny Care Center. It also includes the Brown Geriatric Evaluation Clinic, an Adult Day Program that provides free door-to-door transportation throughout most of lower Fairfield County, and an array of community-based services through Waveny Home Healthcare, Waveny at Home and Geriatric Care Management. For more information, call 1-855-WAVENY-1 or visit www.waveny.org.
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November, 2017
Boomers & Beyond - Fairfield County
As people get older, their risk for type 2 diabetes increases. In fact, in the United States about one in four people over the age of 60 has diabetes. If you already have diabetes, you may find that you need to adjust how you manage your condition as the years go by. This article provides information to help you take care of your diabetes over the long term, so that you can avoid or delay complications and live a long, happy, and active life.
Diabetes Basics What is type 2 diabetes? When you eat, your food is broken down into a sugar called glucose. Glucose gives your body the energy it needs to work. But to use glucose as energy, your body makes insulin, which “unlocks” your body’s cells so they can receive the glucose they need. When you have type 2 diabetes, your body does not make enough insulin or use it well. This means your cells can’t use the glucose as energy, so the glucose stays in your blood. Having high blood glucose can cause problems like eye, kidney, nerve, and foot disorders.
Living Healthy with Diabetes
Seniors
People with diabetes are also at higher risk for high blood pressure, heart disease and stroke, and other serious conditions. There is no cure for diabetes, but it can be managed. Balancing the food you eat with exercise and medicine (if prescribed) will help you control your weight and can keep your blood glucose in the healthy range. This can help prevent or delay diabetes complications. Many people with diabetes live long and healthful lives. continued on next page
Boomers & Beyond - Fairfield County November, 2017
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Physical activity Being active is another part of living healthy and managing diabetes. Any type of physical activity you do will help lower your blood glucose. Other benefits include: • Improving your A1C, blood pressure, and cholesterol • Having more energy • Relieving stress • Burning calories to help you lose or maintain your weight • Keeping your joints flexible • Increasing your strength • Improving your balance to prevent falls • Lowering your risk for heart disease or stroke
Living Healthy with Diabetes continued from previous page
Taking care of your diabetes Your diabetes care team will help you, but day-to-day diabetes care is up to you. Day-to-day care includes: • Choosing what, how much, and when to eat • Getting active • Checking your blood glucose (if your doctor tells you to) • Taking medicine (if your doctor prescribes it) • Quitting smoking • Going to your medical appointments • Learning all you can about diabetes
Who’s on my Diabetes Care team? Your diabetes care team may include a doctor, nurse, registered dietitian, pharmacist, diabetes educator and any other health care provider working to help you care for your diabetes. Your family and friends are important members of your team, too. But remember: you are the captain of this team.
Healthy Food Choices In the past, diets for people with diabetes were very restrictive. Things are different now. There isn’t a “one size fits all” diabetes diet. While you may need to make some changes in what and how much you eat, you have flexibility in deciding what’s on the menu. With a little planning, you can still include your favorite foods. Once you’ve changed how much you are eating, you can start to make healthier choices for each type of food. Focus on getting enough non-starchy vegetables and less starchy foods and meats. Keep meals healthy and limit added fats, sugars and sodium. Your weight If you are overweight, losing weight can help improve your diabetes management. You don’t have to lose a lot of weight to start seeing results. Just 10 to 15 pounds can make a difference. There are many types of weight loss plans to choose from. The key to losing weight in a healthy way is to do so gradually. Avoid extreme diets, and above all, follow the guidance of your doctor or dietitian to create a diet that will work for you.
Exercise and blood glucose How exercise affects your blood glucose will vary depending on how long you are active and other factors. If you take insulin or some diabetes pills, there are a few things you should do to prevent low blood glucose (hypoglycemia) when you exercise. You can check your blood glucose before exercising. If it is under 100 mg/dl, eat some fruit, crackers, or have a glass of milk or juice. Check it again after exercising to learn how your blood glucose reacts to exercise. Medicine for Diabetes Diabetes Pills There are many different types of diabetes pills. Each type of pill works differently to help lower your blood glucose. You may need to take more than one because sometimes drugs work even better when taken together.
Insulin Many people with type 2 need insulin as time goes on. This is because the body makes less insulin over time. It doesn’t mean your condition is worse or that you are doing something wrong. When you have had diabetes for a while, insulin may become the treatment you need to reach your A1C goal so you feel better and stay healthy. Insulin cannot be taken as a pill. It must be injected or given through a pump. What to expect at your Doctor Visits There are several basic tests that can help you and your doctor monitor the effectiveness of your management regimen.
ALC – Tells you what your average blood glucose level has been over the past 2-3 months. A1C can also be reported as Estimated Average Glucose, or eAG. Lipids – Lipids are blood fats. There are three main kinds of lipids. • HDL: High density lipoprotein or “good” cholesterol • LDL: Low density lipoprotein, or “bad” cholesterol • Triglycerides: Another “bad” fat that can build up in blood and block arteries.
Weight – Check your weight at each office visit to see if you are meeting your goal. urine albumin – Measures how well your kidneys are working.
Foot exams – Take your shoes off at every office visit. Ask your doctor to take a look for any redness, blisters, or cuts on your feet. Your doctor will do a full foot exam to check for signs of nerve damage at least once a year.
American Diabetes Association (ADA) Resources 1-800-DiaBetes (342-2383) – ADA representatives from the Center for Information and Community Support are your personal guides to information on diabetes.
Diabetes.org – Find information about living with diabetes, food and fitness, register for special events, buy books, make a donation and more. Source: diabetes.org
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November, 2017
Monthly Tips for Seniors
l
Lifeline
Boomers & Beyond - Fairfield County
5 Autumn Safety Tips for Seniors
As autumn leaves start to fall and the air turns crisp, older adults face seasonal challenges to their health. The cold and flu season is just getting started, and there are other cold-weather threats to a senior’s health and safety that can be minimized by following a few basic guidelines.
Here are five tips for seniors to follow to stay healthy and safe during the colder seasons.
1. Get the flu vaccine. Seniors are especially at risk for complications from the flu, such as pneumonia, bronchitis and ear infections. The flu can also make any chronic health problems worse. There are two types of flu shots specially designed for seniors. Ask your health care provider which one would be best for you.
2. Be wary of tripping hazards. Make sure leaves are cleared from sidewalks and driveways on your property and that all walkways are illuminated to reduce your chances of a fall. Stretch before going outside to warm up stiff muscles.
3. Stay warm. As you get older, your risk of suffering hypothermia goes up. Dress warmly and wear a hat when going outside. Keep your indoor temperature at a minimum of 68 degrees Fahrenheit. If you need help paying your heating bills, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services may be able to help. The Eldercare Locator is a tool from the U.S. government to help connect you with agencies that can help.
4. Protect your skin. Indoor air becomes arid thanks to household heating systems. With age, our skin gets thinner and more prone to dryness and tears that can lead to infections. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids and eating soup. Using a humidifier indoors can go a long way toward putting some much-needed moisture back into the air. Also, make sure to help keep your skin from drying out with lotion or cream.
5. Eliminate fire risks. Check that electrical appliances like electrical blankets are in good condition without fraying cords. Space heaters are common sources of fires. Make sure they’re placed far away from flammable surfaces. Autumn is an excellent time to check the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Also, be sure to have working fire extinguishers in the kitchen and near any fireplaces. While the cold weather makes us want to go inside, make sure to reach out to friends and family to stay connected. Enjoy the beautiful fall season as you prepare for the upcoming winter. With a little planning and care, you can minimize your chances of encountering any risks to your health or safety.
Source: medicalalertsystemreviews.net
Waveny welcomes Mother-Daughter Art Exhibit Boomers & Beyond - Fairfield County
photos provided
Waveny LifeCare Network is pleased to exhibit the artwork of local mother and daughter artists, Roz Emmons and Lisa Thoren, and welcomed their original collection with a gallery opening. This joint exhibition features their paintings side by side, and is a balance of distinct but complementary styles. As friends of Waveny, the mother-daughter duo shared their passion for art, and love of both color and design with the nonprofit eldercare organization’s residents, short-term rehab patients and Adult Day Program participants.
Mother, Roz, was a founder of the Darien Arts Center, and is a lifelong artist. Inspired by her mother, Lisa is a professional artist and a past president of the Darien Arts Center. Their poetic work has already brightened the lives of many, and may be viewed in the front lobby of Waveny’s main campus at 3 Farm Road in New Canaan throughout the end of January. Waveny LifeCare Network provides a comprehensive continuum of healthcare to serve the changing needs of older adults from all areas. Waveny is a nonprofit organization that offers in-
November, 2017
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dependent living at The Inn, assisted living and short-term respite care for people with memory impairment at The Village, and skilled nursing, inpatient and outpatient Rehabilitation Services at Waveny Care Center. It also includes the Brown Geriatric Evaluation Clinic, an Adult Day Program that provides free door-to-door transportation throughout most of lower Fairfield County, and an array of community-based services through Waveny Home Healthcare, Waveny at Home and Geriatric Care Management. For more information, call 1-855-WAVENY-1 or visit www.waveny.org.
7 facts you need to know about National Alzheimer’s Awareness Month PAGE 12
November, 2017
Boomers & Beyond - Fairfield County
As you may have read elsewhere, November is National Alzheimer’s Awareness Month. But surely, the public is already well aware of this horrible disease. After all, Alzheimer’s has directly affected approximately 1 in every 2 families and the others must have certainly noted its prominent coverage in the news. We don’t really need more awareness, right?
Wrong.
Some of the information below may surprise you. That is to say, it is information about which you are not presently aware. However, by merely learning the seven facts below you will be helping to reduce the Alzheimer’s problem. That’s right…making you aware of this information and encouraging you to share it with your social networks will facilitate a more informed and more effective approach to combating the threat we face from this disease. 1) We generally detect Alzheimer’s at the end-stage of the disease On average, Alzheimer’s follows a 14-year course from the onset of the first symptoms until death. There is some variability across patients but 14 years is pretty typical. The more surprising news is that, on average, we diagnose Alzheimer’s in years 8-10 of that disease course. This means that for most patients, symptoms go undiagnosed and untreated for at least seven years, during which time the lesions spread through the brain and cause irreparable damage. We diagnose Alzheimer’s disease far too late to optimize the effects of currently available treatments.
Boomers & Beyond - Fairfield County
5) The Alzheimer’s drug pipeline is full Here’s another fact of which you should be aware. Through an intense research effort over the past twenty years, scientists have gained a lot of insight about Alzheimer’s disease mechanisms and about other factors that increase the risk for the disease. Much has been learned and some very promising drugs, based on sound theoretical approaches, are in FDA clinical trials right now. While much of the disease remains shrouded in mystery and we may still be a long way from better treatments, it is possible that an effective agent is already in the pipeline. Although we don’t know when, better treatments for Alzheimer’s are certainly on the way.
6) Taking care of your heart will help your brain stay healthy Know this; the health of your brain is very closely tied to the health of your body, particularly your heart. Researchers have shown conclusively that high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and obesity all confer greater risk for cognitive decline. The mechanisms that keep oxygen-rich blood flowing through your body play a key role in maintaining a healthy brain. Everyone should be aware about the close association between vascular health and cognitive health. Maintaining good vascular health will help you age with cognitive vitality.
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7) Managing risk factors may delay or prevent cognitive problems later in life There are well-identified risk factors for Alzheimer’s disease that are within our power to manage. These include diabetes, head injuries, smoking, poor diet, lethargy, and isolation. With greater awareness of these facts, we can imagine a world where diabetics take more care to control their blood sugar, where helmets are more prevalent in recreational activities that are likely to cause head trauma, where people smoke less and eat more fruits and vegetables, and where everyone makes a better effort to exercise and to stay socially engaged on a regular basis. While these facts may not be well known, they are all well proven. Galvanizing an effort to publicize them is one purpose of National Alzheimer’s Awareness Month. Many risk factors for Alzheimer’s can be actively managed to reduce the likelihood of cognitive decline. By reading this article, you have increased your understanding of the problem and raised your awareness about what can be done. That is a great step in the right direction but you can do one thing more. You can help to spread this message. In the spirit of National Alzheimer’s Awareness Month, please share this article with your friends to promote more widespread awareness.
2) Memory loss is NOT a part of normal aging The point about end-stage detection raises an obvious question about “why” we diagnose this disease so late. There are many contributing factors but most of them can be reduced through awareness and education. Some patients resist medical attention in the early stages because they fear a stigmatizing label or because they are misinformed to believe that Alzheimer’s cannot be treated. Many people, including a startling number of physicians, incorrectly believe that memory loss is a normal part of aging. Improving the timeliness of diagnoses for Alzheimer’s is, in many ways, a problem that can be addressed through awareness and education.
3) Current Alzheimer’s drugs are more effective than you think One of the reasons that current treatments are often deemed ineffective is because they are routinely prescribed for patients with end-stage pathology who already have massive brain damage. With earlier intervention, treatment can be administered to patients with healthier brains, many of whom will respond more vigorously to the recommended therapy.
4) Alzheimer’s disease can be treated Preventing or slowing further brain damage is preferable to letting the damage spread without constraint. Yet, many physicians, patients, and caregivers conclude that any treatment short of a cure is not worthwhile. While today it is true that we have no cure for Alzheimer’s, that does not mean there is no treatment. With a good diet, physical exercise, social engagement, and certain drugs, many patients (especially those detected at an early stage) can meaningfully alter the course of Alzheimer’s and preserve their quality of life.
Source:Caring.com
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November, 2017
Boomers & Beyond - Fairfield County
Reading is exercise for your brain: Our November Book List for Boomers The Elder Wisdom Circle Guide for a Meaningful Life: Seniors Across America Offer Advice to the Next Generations Doug Meckelson Answers to all questions, easy and tough, from the members of the Elder Wisdom Circle
Spend Well, Live Rich How to Get What You Want with the Money You Have Michelle Singletary Financial planner and columnist Michelle Singletary offers common sense advice on how to live within your means and grow wealth, including the 7 Money Mantras for a Richer Life Petty: The Biography Warren Zanes Intimate biography of the late Tom Petty by writer and musician Warren Zanes who toured with him.
1000 Record Covers Michael Ochs Record covers are often viewed as artwork and as statements of a generation. Ochs showcases a carefully curated selection of 1000 rock and roll album covers from the 60’s-90’s.
Wine. all the time Marissa A. Ross The comedian and wine critic Marissa A. Ross guides us through the art of picking great wine on any budget.
How to Murder Your Life Cat Marnell A raw and candid memoir of decades of drug addiction by a former Conde Nast beauty editor.
Blindsided: The true story of one man’s crusade against a chemical giant for a boy with no eyes James L. Ferraro with Laura Morton The true story of the legendary 1996 case Castillo v. DuPont that brought justice to the family of a boy born without eyes after his mother’s exposure to a chemical fungicide. Food in Vogue Vogue Editors Stunning photos of food from the pages of Vogue Magazine.
photos provided
Boomers & Beyond - Fairfield County
November, 2017
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New England Young at Heart SENIOR FALL BALL
An amazing time was had by all who were there. Almost 300 senior citizens filled the ballroom at Aria on October 18. They enjoyed a wonderful lunch, some shopping, and a lot of dancing to the music they all loved! Young at Heart Founder, Elaine Marcucio, has now put on two very successful events at Aria and will be expanding to two new locations for the Spring Senior Prom in May of 2018! Elaine wants to say thank you to all the senior centers that were involved and helped make this day fun-filled for all. “Thanks to New England Young at Heart for keeping the senior communities in Connecticut active, engaged, informed and “young at heart".” ~Alzheimer’s Association The New England Young at Heart Service Network is aimed to guide the elderly and their caretakers in enriching their lives with purpose and meaning. Their network is comprised of many local companies joined together to form a resource guide, designed to inform our local communities about the reliable healthier living resources that are available to them.
Within the Young at Heart Service Network you will find information for all of our local events including local wellness fairs and conferences. For more information, please visit www.neyoungatheart.com or call 844-330-9898
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November, 2017
Boomers & Beyond - Fairfield County
Boomers & Beyond - Fairfield County
November, 2017
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1. Set up a gratitude tree. The whole point of Thanksgiving is to consider and share what you’re most thankful for. You can start that part of the celebration early, by setting up a tree in one of your community’s shared spaces that residents can hang notes on that say what they’re thankful about. On Thanksgiving Day, you can pull the notes down and share them with the whole group.
2. Make gourd turkeys. Combine two of the most popular symbols of fall with these Thanksgiving gourd turkeys that can be used to decorate your lobby and dining area. They can add some color and cuteness to the space, and the template provided makes getting the craft just right easy for any seniors that choose to participate.
3. Have a family recipe competition. Everyone’s got their own family traditions and, while there’s probably some overlap in what your residents’ families have typically made for Thanksgiving, there are probably some unique family recipes that bring back fond memories for the individuals in the home. Let everyone submit their favorites and share them with the group to take a vote. The items that win will get made for the Thanksgiving feast on the big day. 4. Make a felted acorn garland. Colorful felted acorns can get you in the autumn spirit (especially if you stick with traditional fall colors like brown, orange, and yellow) and give your seniors something productive to work on for an afternoon. If you string them together into a garland, you have a handy decoration for any room in the assisted living facility. 5. Write thank you letters. Musing on what you’re thankful for is one thing, letting the people in your life that have helped make it better know how much they mean to you is another. You could do this anytime in November, but it might have the most impact if you time it so the letters will likely arrive on or around Thanksgiving Day. You can add a craft component to the letter writing by encouraging your residents to make some Thanksgivingthemed homemade stationary.
7 Thanksgiving activities for seniors
The holiday season is upon us and brings with it numerous opportunities for turning typical days at your community into seasonal experiences. Treat November as a month-long Thanksgiving celebration with regular themed activities scattered throughout. The seniors in your assisted living home can get involved by helping decorate and plan for the
big day, and everyone will have plenty of incentive to think about all that’s been good in their lives past and present. Encourage your residents to be as involved and engaged in the proceedings as possible. Invite seniors to help with cooking and setting the room up, and encourage everyone to bring an idea of 3-5 things they’re thankful for to share.
in Assisted Living
There’s no reason that being in an assisted living home should mean you have a Thanksgiving that feels any less celebratory and cozy than those spent with family over the years. By incorporating activities in keeping with the season and encouraging your residents to be involved, you can keep the beloved tradition alive for them.
6. Make Thanksgiving place cards. In preparation for the big day, invite your craft-inclined residents to help you make some adorable turkey placecards for everyone who will be attending the Thanksgiving meal. These can be made from a few simple materials, including apples, almonds, and peanuts (be warned, you may be tempted to do some healthy snacking while working).
7. Have a Thanksgiving dinner celebration. Everything else on the list has been leading up to this. Use the crafts your residents have made to decorate the celebration. Prepare the recipes shared and voted on by everyone in the facility. And bring out the gratitude tree to start the discussion of things people are thankful for.
Source:www.senioradvisor.com
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November, 2017
Boomers & Beyond - Fairfield County
Recipe Easy-to-make Stuffed Peppers for an easy dinner
any night of the week! Lean ground turkey and brown rice makes for a healthier version than traditional beef.
Get ready to love…
Mondays
What are your expectations for retirement? What will you look forward to most? While many fantasize of lazy days, no schedules, and no bosses; that's often not the case. Many retirees are extremely busy and wonder how they ever had time for work?
Many retirees love Mondays because of the sheer joy they feel when everyone else they know has to go back to work. And you don't. No longer will you dread that the weekend is coming to an end. Weekdays now represent a whole new world. Many retirees join fitness programs, support groups, attend senior activities and trips and volunteer at local hospitals or meal services. Boomers & Beyond would love to hear from retirees who would like to share with our readers what they are involved in now that they have time. Please send your stories to: Cathy@healthcarenewsmagazine.com 1 Ardmore Street, New Windsor, NY 12553
Stuffed Green Peppers 4 green peppers (large, washed) 1 pound turkey, ground 1 cup brown rice, uncooked 1⁄2 cup onion (peeled and chopped) 1 1⁄2 cup tomato sauce, no added salt black pepper to taste Preparation Cut around the stem of the green peppers. Remove the seeds and the pulpy part of the peppers. Wash, and then cook green peppers in boiling water for five minutes. Drain well. In saucepan, brown turkey. Add brown rice, onion, 1/2 cup tomato sauce and black pepper. Stuff each pepper with mixture and place in casserole dish. Pour the remaining tomato sauce over the green peppers. Cover and bake for 30 minutes at 350 degrees. Source:www.aplaceformom.com
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November, 2017
Boomers & Beyond - Fairfield County