Boomers & Beyond

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Boomers d n o Bey Westchester County

November 2012

&

Making Every Day A Good Day:

Sarah Neuman Center Introduces Social Day Care Program For Westchester Elders See page 4

Brain Aging & Alzheimer’s Disease –

Preventing Loss of Self

See page 10

Alzheimer’s can devastate a family.

Understanding Elder Law and Medicaid planning can provide peace of mind. See page 14 Naturopathic Medicine

DRS2HEALTH® A Unique Brand In Natural Healthcare See page 9

New York Life will help you be ready for the future See page 9

Wartburg hires Maria Tapia-Belsito, CFRE as new Director of Development The Wartburg welcomes Maria Tapia-Belsito, CFRE (Certified Fund Raising Executive) as its Director of Development. In her new position, she will be responsible for implementing a range of fund raising strategies to cultivate donations from all of The Wartburg constituencies, including family members, current residents, churches and church members, community members, foundations, and related businesses and corporations. Maria recently moved back to New York, where she started her fund raising career as DeMaria Tapia-Belsito, Director velopment Director for The of Development, The Wartburg Allen Stevenson School. She then moved to Kansas where she managed and coordinated the development and marketing for leading non-profit organizations such as Mattie Rhodes Center (Kansas City, MO), the Rose Brooks Center (Kansas City, MO) and the American Lung Association of Kansas (Shawnee Mission, KS), just to name a few. Maria comes to The Wartburg from The Futuro Media Group in New York City. “I am thrilled to have the opportunity to join The Wartburg team and help share its important work with the community. Having served as a fund raiser for several non-profit organizations for over 30 years�, explains Maria, “it’s extremely satisfying to work with an organization, like The Wartburg, that provides donors with philanthropic opportunities that not only benefit the receiving organization and the communities it serves, but also spiritually reward the donors themselves.� A native of Quito, Ecuador, Maria now resides in Bronxville with her husband Donald, Professor of Clinical Dermatology at Columbia University Medical Center. They have three daughters who are professionals in New York, Washington DC and Boston. Maria has a BA in Psychology from Vassar College, and is fluent in Spanish. She is very involved in the community and serves as a board member of The Mount Vernon Star Scholars Program, Co-Chair of Vassar’s Annual Fund, and volunteer at El Centro Hispano in White Plains. According to David Gentner, President & CEO of The Wartburg and Wartburg Foundation, “Maria is a very special person who combines the intellect and passion that we look for here at The Wartburg. Her expertise in cultivating and fund raising, combined with her vast experience in the not-for-profit sector, elevates our Development initiatives to a whole new level. We are extremely fortunate to have Maria join our Wartburg team.� About The Wartburg The Wartburg Adult Care Community is a not-for-profit Lutheran ministry, serving people of all faiths with a full range of residential options and health-related services for older area adults and their families. The Wartburg offers skilled nursing care, rehabilitation, Alzheimer's and dementia care, assisted and independent living, adult day services, home care, pastoral care and monthly caregiver support groups. The Wartburg is a member organization of the National Center for Creative Aging. For more information about The Wartburg Adult Care Community or to support its mission, please call (914) 699-0800, email info@thewartburg.org or visit www.thewartburg.org.

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November, 2012

Boomers & Beyond - Westchester

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Boomers & Beyond - Westchester November, 2012

WESTCHESTER COUNTY

PAGE 3

When my mother was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, we both felt helpless.

Alzheimer’s Association Support Groups Ardsley Atria Woodlands 1st Wed., 6 p.m. Cortlandt Manor The Seabury at Fieldhome 1st/3rd Wed., 10-11:30 a.m.

Purchase * Alzheimer’s Association 1st/3rd Wed. 10-11:30 a.m. Purchase Alzheimer’s Association 2nd/4th Mon., 10-11:30 a.m.

Hawthorne ## Morningside House Adult Daycare Center 2nd/4th Thurs., 10-11:15 a.m.

Scarsdale 2nd/4th Tues., 6-7:30 p.m. Call for information 1.800.272.3900

Mt. Kisco # Presbyterian Church 4th Wed., 6:30-8 p.m.

Tuckahoe The Fountains at Rivervue 3rd Sat., 2 p.m.

Mount Vernon Call for info, 1.800.272.3900

White Plains Hearthstone at the Esplanade (Regency Room) 2nd Sun., 10-11 a.m.

Ossining Atria on the Hudson 1st Tues., 6:30 p.m. Purchase Alzheimer’s Association 1st/3rd Mon., 1-2:30 p.m.

Yonkers Five Star Premier Residences of Yonkers 2nd Tues., 6-7:30 p.m.

* Early Stage Caregivers ** Free respite is offered during the group (pre-registration is required). # Adult Children Only ## Spouse Caregivers Only All support groups are free and open to the public, but pre-registration is required. For exact location, support group leader contact information, and general questions, please call 1.800.272.3900.

Then I made it my business to get all the help we needed. When my mother was afflicted with Alzheimer’s, days and nights became a constant, emotional ordeal for my family.

care proxies, living wills, powers of attorney and guardianships.

We changed our lives to make my mother’s life as comfortable and fulfilling as possible.

Information or reassurance is often necessary on an immediate basis. Calls are returned promptly, services delivered when promised.

Because of this experience, I expanded my long-established estate planning law practice to include personalized Elder Law and Medicaid planning. One that offers solutions and peace of mind, with caring and understanding. I offer the kind of service that I could not find. I provide advice and counsel in all elder law-related matters including asset preservation and Medicaid qualification. Also provided is estate planning, Medicaid trusts, health

All my clients have my cell phone number.

Our flexible office hours accommodate the needs of working family members. In-home, hospital and nursing home appointments are available. More than 20 years experience. As an A-V rated attorney, and with my personal understanding of the traumas that age can bring to the senior and loved ones, I can be the person who can lift some of the burdens on you and your family during these stressful times.

Patricia G. Micek, Esq. 914.834.3500 patmicek@mcmplaw.com McMillan, Constabile, Maker & Perone, LLP 2180 Boston Post Road / Larchmont, NY 10538 Offices also in White Plains, Yorktown Heights and Manhattan

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MAKING EVERY DAY A GOOD DAY: Sarah Neuman Center Introduces Social Day Care Program For Westchester Elders With life expectancy rising, there is cause for many more milestone birthday celebrations of 80, 90 and 100 year-olds. Enjoying extended years has its reward. More and more elders attend a grandchild’s wedding, joyfully cradle a great-grand child in their arms and attend a four-generation reunion. But with advanced age, the possibility of needing extra day-to-day assistance is very real, too. Jewish Home Lifecare’s Sarah Neuman Center in Mamaroneck is helping elders and their families plan for these times and recently enhanced its Social Day Care Program to accommodate local Westchester residents. What is Social Day Care? At Sarah Neuman Center (SNC), elders can now spend the day in a caring, engaging and secure environment. The Social Day Program offers aging parents and relative’s assistance with their personal care, meals and a wide range of engaging activities and wellness programs. The SNC Social Day Program is designed to give older adults who can no longer manage independently, or are simply lonely and isolated, the opportunity to socialize with others. Having the opportunity to engage in mental and social activities, while receiving other required care services, is critical for maintaining and even improving their quality of life. Anna Frolova, LCSW, Sarah Neuman Center Social Adult Day Director explains, “Day Care is really about enhancing the quality of life for our elders. When they engage in our social programs, the participants experience noticeable improvements in their memory, which is often misdiagnosed as dementia. They actually feel less depressed and are happier overall. It’s an amazing transformation to see such positive outcomes.” continued on next page

Boomers & Beyond - Westchester November, 2012

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MAKING EVERY DAY A GOOD DAY continued from previous page An important, but sometimes overlooked benefit of a program like this is that helps the caregiver too. Generally, family members are the primary caregiving source. The Sarah Neuman Social Day Program gives them a break to attend to personal needs -- or simply just rest and relax -- while knowing their family member is in good hands. An Active Day in a Supportive Environment The Sarah Neuman Social Day Program environment is designed for elder safety and the attentive staff members watch out for their wellbeing. Elder-friendly exercise programs, including yoga and tai-chi, help to develop their strength and balance which translates to a feeling a confidence as they move about. Fall prevention and safe walking programs reinforce an elders well being as they learn new techniques and procedures that can be applied when they are in their own home. The Social Day Program team monitors elders’ medication compliance by gently reminding them when it’s time to take their next dosage.

Incorporating stimulating art activities, singing and live musical performances and dance programs, participants enjoy a good time while participating at their own specific level. Electronic gaming offers physical and therapeutic benefits to the participants, while discussion groups and day trips stimulate positive thinking and learning. And, the SNC Social Day Center provides participants with a daily continental breakfast, a balanced lunch and afternoon snacks prepared according to the individuals dietary needs. How can a Social Day Program Help You? Has your mom ever opened a can of soup for lunch and left the room as it heated up on the stove, returning an hour later to find the soup burnt to the smoking pot? It’s not uncommon, and clearly presents safety issues to her and surrounding neighbors. When an aging adult seems unable to provide his or herself with structure for daily activities, is very forgetful or has extended periods of isolation and misses other, a Social Day Program is a reasonable solution.

The Sarah Neuman Social Day Program is available at $70.00 per day. Optional door-to-door transportation from the elder’s home to the Day Program is available with an additional fee. Other optional health care services include vital signs monitoring, wound care, diabetes management, counseling, physical and occupational therapies, nutritional counseling and many other options. For more information call 800-544-0304 or email connections@jewishhome.org.

Sarah Neuman Center presents:

Health Tips for Staying Well Sarah Neuman Center offers: Staying Fit healthy lifting and kickboxing may not be For most seniors, jogging, weight ember rem se plea but ss, fitne to boost your options. Try these simple, fun tasks en. regim cise exer re starting a new to first check with your doctor befo Be Active your usual stop and walk the Step off the bus two blocks before rest of the way. on the joints, improves your Take a Tai Chi or Yoga class. It’s easy balance and makes you stronger.

* * * * * *

apy bilitation with individualized ther Comprehensive short-stay reha plans and care teams a beautiful residential campus Skilled Nursing care services on social models—for health and Adult Day Programs—medical and n wellness support and social interactio Respite Care providing a break for

those caring for an elder at home

uming, mopping, dusting and Doing everyday chores, like vacu shopping, count too.

Need more info ?

Walk a dog; play with a cat.

Health Tips are for you from your neighbors at Sarah Neuman Center. Helping you stay well and safe is our first priority.

Be Social ” invite a friend over to “cut the rug. Join a local dance class or simply rs blood pressure and decreases your Laugh more. It reduces stress, lowe risk of heart disease. Be Mindful couch ure, whether you’re sitting on the Always try to maintain good post y. injur to g and less susceptible or on a chair, to keep your back stron k adequate fluids throughout the Eat breakfast and remember to drin ty. day — even if you don’t feel thirs

* *

To learn more about us, call (914) 864-5621. www.jewishhome.org

845 Palmer Avenue, Mamaroneck NY 10543

PAGE 6

November, 2012

Boomers & Beyond - Westchester

Advertiser’s Index

From the General Manager

A&J Home Care, Inc............................................................ 11

You might be in your 60s, or 70s, maybe even you 80s – the so-called golden years.

Amoruso & Amoruso, LLP...................................................... 6 Audio Help Hearing Centers.................................................15 Burke Rehabilitation Hospital...............................................12 DRS2HEALTH®..................................................................9 Jewish Home Lifecare.............................................................5 New York Life..........................................................................9 Patricia G. Micek, Esq..........................................................3 Premiere Audiology................................................................13 Sprain Brook Audiology.........................................................8 Victoria Home.......................................................................11 The Wartburg Adult Care Community....................................2 Westchester Meadows...........................................................16 Willow Towers........................................................................7

Boomers yond

Westchester County

& Be

845-534-7500 • (fax) 845-534-0055 Info@HealthcareNewspaper.com PUBLISHER Joseph P. Belsito (Joe@healthcarenewspaper.com) ••• GENERAL MANAGER James Stankiewicz (Jim@healthcarenewspaper.com) ••• MANAGING EDITOR Cathryn Burak (Cathy@healthcarenewspaper.com) ••• MARkETING ASSOcIATE Katie Rider (Katie@healthcarenewspaper.com) ••• ADvERTISING-PUBLIc RELATIONS Ellie K. Ellis (elliekellis@gmail.com) ••• AccOUNT EXEcUTIvE Jeff Horton (Jeff@healthcarenewspaper.com) ••• cIRcULATION Michelle Belsito (Michelle@healthcarenewspaper.com) ••• SENIOR cORRESPONDENTS Brendan Coyne John Jordan

Corporate Information Healthcare News - Westchester, New York edition - Vol. 5 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.

Enjoy them, but remember there are many more years to come. Many more milestones, memories and moments with your beloved family and friends. Maybe even 105 more years – and counting. Imagine that. Earlier this fall, Edrick Forde, a regular at Sound Shore Medical Center’s Ludington Adult Day Services in New Rochelle celebrated his 105th birthday at the center. You go, Edrick. You are truly an inspiration. Forde’s story is one of the reasons why Healthcare News started Boomers & Beyond, a monthly insert geared toward our avid senior readers – and the facilities and businesses trying to reach them. Boomers & Beyond is an insightful resource for seniors, providing them with information important to them: From health trends, to retirement savings, travel and dining deals, and much more. Most of all, we want to tell your stories in Westchester County – from White Plains, to Larchmont, to Yorktown. That’s what we are here for. Our staff looks forward to growing with you and one last thing: Happy belated 105th birthday, Edrick! Jim Stankiewicz, General Manager

Boomers & Beyond - Westchester November, 2012

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The decision to place someone with Alzheimer’s (AD) or another related disease is a difficult one to make. Many factors need to be considered when making taking this step, including the safety of the AD patient, and the options for care within the family. However, the decision often comes down to the realization that the patient will simply do better in a nursing home than he or she will at home. Many nursing homes have developed special programs for people with Alzheimer’s disease and related disorders. So what should you look for while evaluating an Alzheimer’s Special Care Unit? Families should research carefully before selecting an assisted living facility. Visit more than one. Look for staff members who interact well with residents. Once you’ve narrowed your list, visit during the evening and busy morning hours to make sure there are enough caregivers to help.

Thedecisionto placesomeonewith

What is Alzheimer’s disease? Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is an incurable, progressive degenerative disease of the brain. It is the most common form of dementia. Consequent changes in personality are accompanied by an inability to function. The type, severity, sequence and progression of the mental changes vary widely among individuals. While it most frequently affects older individuals, Alzheimer’s disease is not a part of normal aging. continued on next page

Alzheimer’s

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What are the symptoms/warning signs of Alzheimer’s disease? Symptoms/warning signs of AD may include the following: Memory loss or unexplained confusion that interferes with daily activities Difficulty in performing familiar tasks and chores Problems speaking, understanding, reading or writing Forgetting words or substituting inappropriate words Disorientation to time and place (getting lost in familiar surroundings) Poor or decreased judgment (wearing a winter coat on a hot day) Problems with abstract thinking (difficulty balancing a checkbook) Misplacing things in inappropriate places (putting the iron in the freezer) Changes in mood or behavior (rapid mood swings or cursing) Drastic changes in personality (suspiciousness) Lack of interest and involvement in usual activities

Here is an important checklist when finding the right facility for a loved one: What to consider? • Proximity to family and friends. The closer, the better. If you or friends can visit, your family member will have more companionship and the added protection of visitors who can monitor what's happening. • Safe and easy-to-navigate grounds. Look for handrails, elevators and doors wide enough for wheelchairs. If you're considering a home for someone with dementia, check to see if there are alarms on doors leading outside to prevent residents from wandering away. • Who dispenses medication. How many hours of training have they had? State requirements vary on the number of hours of training required. Does the home meet state requirements? Can residents self-administer medication with doctor approval? • The staff ratio. If most residents need a lot of assistance and there is only one direct caregiver to 10 or 12 residents, it may not be enough. Conversely, if most residents are fairly independent, a 1-to-15 ratio may be fine. Some facilities require direct-care staff to take care of residents and clean rooms, serve meals and bus dining room tables.

The ratio at such a home would be different from a home with separate housekeeping and kitchen staffs. Ask about the duties expected of direct caregivers. • Staff turnover rate. Desirable turnover rates are in the single digits, although many homes have higher rates. If the turnover rate is higher, ask why.

What to ask for? • Licensing and certification reports. Many states require facilities to make state regulators' reports available on request. If a home has a longstanding pattern of deficiencies, especially involving medication errors or neglect, look for another.

• A copy of the resident agreement or facility contract. It's a legal document that spells out obligations. Many facilities charge extra for things like laundry service, haircuts, incontinence products and dispensing medication. There may be additional fees if your family member's needs increase.

• A meal menu. Meal times are a highlight for residents, so look for a varied menu. Is there a set mealtime or can residents choose? Try to sample the food yourself. • A list of scheduled activities. Do they reflect a wide range of interests? Are they varied so residents of all abilities can participate?

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Boomers & Beyond - Westchester November, 2012

PAGE 9

Let’s get something straight: Edrick Forde isn’t 105 years old. No, no. Edrick Forde is 105 years young. Sound Shore Medical Center (SSMC) Ludington Adult Day Services staff and registrants helped Edrick Forde celebrate his 105th birthday in September. Joined by his two daughters as well as New York State Senator Andrea Stewart-Cousins, the affable Mr. Forde reveled in the attention. As representative of the 35th New York State District, Senator Stewart-Cousins was on hand to present Mr. Forde with a Proclamation declaring September 11 as Edrick Forde Day. He also received a Certificate of Appreciation and wishes for continued health and happiness from the City of New Rochelle’s Mayor, Noam Bramson, who recognized the blessings, wisdom and fortitude that Mr. Forde has achieved in his lifetime. In his centenarian years, Mr. Forde remains involved. He attends Ludington four days a week, is engaged in weekly church activities, continues to the play the piano and sews. In fact, he promised to make a skirt for the

Sound Shore program allows senior's to stay 351662CV-A at home and receive the care they need. 1/4 page ad Sound Shore Medical Center (SSMC) Ludington Adult Day Program’s staff and registrants enthusiastically embraced the return of a favorite youth volunteer, Jonathan Jackson, whose placement through the New Rochelle Youth Bureau’s 2008 Summer Program was with the dynamic Adult Day program at Ludington. Now four years later, this Occupational Therapy student at Mercy College, has returned to Ludington. Jonathan scheduled all evening classes so he could again volunteer with these special seniors. And, now he brings new found skills to help the Adult Day Program registrants remain engaged in the world around them. In fact, Jonathan has developed and will be running group sessions entitled, “Around the World with Jonathan�. This enthusiastic young man will expose participants to different cultures, art, music, cuisines, sports and more. At a recent Ludington visit, Jonathan found himself in conversation with Ludington’s senior of seniors – the 105 year old Edrick Forde. During this one-on-one, Mr. Forde stressed the importance of Jonathan staying focused so he can achieve his goals. With the addition of Mr. Jackson’s dedication and Mr. Forde’s insights, Ludington continues to offer a stimulating environment for seniors in the Sound Shore region.

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Senator in time for his 106th birthday celebration, but since he plans on spending it in his home country of Barbados, she’ll have to join him there to receive her gift. This promise for a Forde Original followed his statement, “I don’t look my age because I don’t have anything left to worry about.� Mr. Forde’s daughters, one of whom lives near him in Mount Vernon and the other who came from Barbados for the celebration, provided the delicious cake and some amusing stories about their dad. Everyone enjoyed the event and the positive spirit that Mr. Forde’s presence provides each and every day. Ludington’s Adult Day Services Program is a medical model that provides rest for caregivers and allows seniors and individuals with chronic conditions, who need some medical help – but not around the clock – to remain in their home setting while receiving daytime support.

Brain Aging & Alzheimer’s Disease – Preventing Loss of Self By Dr. Michael Wald

If you are part of the baby boomer generation, then you face a unique problem; namely, the very real potential exists that you will loose your memory slowly over the later part of your life. Here are a few facts that you need to know: - As you age your risk of memory loss, dementia and Alzheimer’s disease rises - Alzheimer’s disease is not a normal part of the aging process. The incidence of the disease doubles every five years beyond the age of 65. - As the number of people over age 65 doubles between 2010 and 20560 to approximately 88.5 million (or to about 20% of the population), those over the age of 85 will increase three-fold…and the incidence of memory issues, dementia and Alzheimer’s disease increases too. - A half million Americans younger than the age of 65 suffer from some form of dementia (memory loss) including Alzheimer’s disease. Nutritional science offers some important options for the treatment and prevention of all stages of memory loss. If you think that you are suffering from memory loss first visit your doctor. Then seek out a trained clinical nutritionist to perform a detailed nutritional-health consultation and appropriate nutritional lab work. Here are a few things you might consider in the meantime: Fatty acid levels analyzed in patients with Alzheimer's disease and cognitive impairment Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) is an omega-3 fatty acid found in salmon, tuna, mackerel, sardines, and shellfish that is essential for proper brain functioning. Lack of sufficient DHA may be associated with impaired visual functioning, depression, as well as attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children. According to Dr. Julie Conquer and colleagues in Lipids, low levels of omega-3 fatty acids, including DHA, may be a risk factor for cognitive impairment and/or dementia. A recent study sought to determine the concentration of DHA in a group of patients with Alzheimer's disease and other dementias compared to a group of elderly control subjects with normal cognitive functioning. For each participant, blood was collected and tested for DHA concentration. Results demonstrated that the concentration of DHA was 48% less in patients with Alzheimer's disease and 21% less in patients with other forms of dementia, compared to the elderly control subjects with normal cognitive function. Dr. Conquer and colleagues stated that "a decreased level of plasma DHA was not limited to the [Alzheimer's disease] patients but appears to be common in cognitive impairment with aging." More studies are needed to investigate whether DHA supplementation can reduce the occurrence or symptoms of Alzheimer's disease and other dementias. (Lipids 2000;35(12):1305-12.). I have observed DHA deficiency in my clinical practice over the last 22 years. It’s my judgment that it is safe and worth adding as a nutritional supplement to a balanced diet. See: www.blooddetective.com for Krill Oil and Vegetarian Omega 3 Fatty Acid. continued on next page

Brain Aging & Alzheimer’s Disease continued from previous page

Boomers & Beyond - Westchester November, 2012

Acetyl-L-carnitine may prevent Alzheimer's disease Carnitine is a vitamin-like substance that is responsible for the transport of fatty acids into and out of the mitochondria. Evidence suggests that carnitine may protect neurologic tissue due to its antioxidant and energy producing activity, and its role in neurotransmitter function. While there are many forms of carnitine, acetyl-L-carnitine (ALC) appears to have better activity in the central nervous system, including brain tissue.ALC administration in patients with primary degenerative dementia showed therapeutic efficacy in clinical, behavioral, and neuropsychological evaluations. A series of controlled studies suggests that ALC may slow the natural course of Alzheimer's disease." In particular, persons with dementia given 1.5 to 3 grams ALC daily for 3 or 6 months have shown improvement in numerous clinical measures of cognitive function. In addition, "safety and tolerability of ALC [are] remarkably good," further demonstrating the potential use of ALC in a number of progressive neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's disease. Go to: www.blooddetective.com for L-Carnitine. B vitamins, homocysteine, and neurological function in the elderly Folic acid and vitamins B6 and B12 are critical to many body processes, including the health of the nervous system, blood, and cells. In addition, these B-group vitamins have been shown to protect against depression, dementia, Alzheimer's disease, peripheral neuropathy, and seizures. According to the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, "the status of these vitamins is frequently inadequate in the elderly and recent studies have shown associations between loss of cognitive function or Alzheimer's disease and inadequate B vitamin status."

PAGE 11

Research has shown that an inadequate B vitamin status may result in neurocognitive dysfunction through elevated homocysteine concentrations in the blood, or hyperhomocysteinemia. Homocysteine is an amino acid that is produced in the human body. Prevalent in the elderly population, hyperhomocysteinemia is largely attributed to insufficient levels of folic acid and vitamins B6 and B12. The association between cognitive dysfunction and hyperhomocysteinemia has been demonstrated in numerous studies. For instance, Dr. Selhub and colleagues reported that "patients with Alzheimer's disease had higher total plasma homocysteine concentrations than did age-matched healthy controls," while "elderly patients with depression who had lower cognitive screening test scores had significantly higher homocysteine concentrations than did patients with normal cognitive screening tests." Because folic acid and vitamins B6 and B12 are often deficient among many elderly patients, the importance of these vitamins in the prevention of hyperhomocysteinemia and neurocognitive dysfunction cannot be overlooked. Be sure and use the active forms of folic acid (L-5-methyltetrahydrofolic acid), B12 (methylcobalamine and pyridoxyl-5-phosphate. Prevention is the key! Be proactive as most regular physicians have no nutritional training and are not up on the latest scientific nutritional literature and advances. Dr. Michael Wald is director of nutrition at Integrated Medicine of Mount Kisco. He is the author of over 10 books and software. His latest book, The Blood Detective’s Longevity Manual – your personal guide to better health, will be available in 2012. His website is: www.intmedny.com and www.blooddetective. 914-242-8844 (Ext. 1)

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November, 2012

Boomers & Beyond - Westchester

Burke Medical Research Institute announces opening of new research laboratories to be used for brain repair The Regenerative Medicine Laboratories, which are currently fully operational, are an integral part of the Medical Research Institute’s goal of reducing disability from neurological diseases such as stroke, brain injury, spinal cord injury and disease, and other neurological conditions such as multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases. After the poster sessions, members of the media and the general public were invited to take part in tours of the new facility and to learn more about the medical research being conducted at the institute. Burke Medical Research Institute is one of the only free-standing research institutes on the same campus as its dedicated hospital, enabling patients to have access to For decades, the notion of being able to repair the brain has been limited to science fiction. But the gap between current neurological research and the seemingly far-fetched ideas read about in novels and seen on film is narrowing. New developments at the Burke Medical Research Institute—the research entity of the Burke Rehabilitation Center and Weill Cornell Medical College— promise to bring new understanding to the problem of brain and spinal cord injury rewiring to solve brain damage from stroke, spinal cord injury and traumatic brain injury—the leading causes of disability in the U.S. Burke has invested more than $7 million on the renovation of its research laboratories, increasing its regenerative medicine research laboratories to more than 40,000 square feet. That, along with the recruitment of worldclass scientists and clinician-scientists, promises to bring “cure” to the common language regarding neurological disability. To celebrate Burke’s commitment to solving the problems of brain repair, the Institution commemorated the opening of its Regenerative Medicine Laboratories with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Sept. 14. The ribbon cutting was followed by a poster session where Burke research scientists discussed various aspects of their research and how this research will help to win the battle against disability caused by neurological disease.

cutting-edge research discoveries and clinical trials during their rehabilitation and recovery. According to Rajiv R. Ratan, M.D., Ph.D., executive director of the Burke Medical Research Institute and professor of neurology and neuroscience at Weill Cornell Medical College, “The goal of the Burke Medical Research Institute is to provide the necessary tools necessary to reduce neurological disability, which happens to be the number one cause of disability in the United States. The opening of the Regenerative Medicine Laboratories will bring us one step closer to achieving our main objective of reducing or eliminating disability caused by disease and illness.” continued on next page

Boomers & Beyond - Westchester November, 2012

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photos provided

Regenerative Medicine Laboratories Opening Ceremony continued from previous page

The important work of Burke’s research scientists is known not only in the medical and academic fields but in the political arena as well. "I am so proud that with this expansion of Burke Medical Rehabilitation Institute, Westchester County will continue to lead the way in cutting-edge research on debilitating neurological diseases and conditions," said Congresswoman Nita Lowey (D-Westchester/Rockland). "I am confident that the research conducted at the Regenerative Medicine Laboratories will lead to crucial advancements in reducing neurological disability, and I look forward to working with Burke scientists and leadership for many years to come." Burke currently has more than 20 full-time researchers at the institute, who all have the prestigious designation of Cornell faculty member as well. These scientists work collaboratively with each other and scientists worldwide in areas such as neurological regeneration, vision restoration, pain and motor recovery. The scientific efforts at Burke are complemented by a strong working relationship with Cornell University and its associated medical school.

"Westchester prides itself on being New York's Intellectual Capital," added County Executive Robert P. Astorino. "The opening of its Regenerative Medicine Laboratories in White Plains demonstrates Burke's commitment to cutting edge research. Westchester County is proud to support Burke's growth and ongoing goal of finding treatments to neurological and other diseases." “The Regenerative Medicine Laboratories at Burke Rehabilitation Center are a tremendous investment for Westchester County,” U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand said. “This is a great opportunity for New York to stay on the cutting edge of medical advancements in the fight against neurological disability while creating and sustaining jobs in the region.” Founded in 1978 as the medical research affiliate of the Burke Rehabilitation Hospital, the Burke Medical Research Institute is one of the only free-standing rehabilitation research facilities with dedicated programs in basic research (understanding how the normal brain functions and how it is affected by disease), translational research (understanding how to bring basic research to the

patient bedside), and clinical research (testing of new therapies in patients). These research endeavors are funded by private donations and through highly competitive grants awarded by

the National Institutes of Health and private and public foundations. For more information about the Burke Medical Research Institute, please visit www.burke.org/research.

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November, 2012

Boomers & Beyond - Westchester

Alzheimer’s can devastate a family. Understanding Elder Law and Medicaid planning can provide peace of mind. When Pat Micek’s mother was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, days and nights became a constant, emotional ordeal for her entire family. They changed their lives to make mom’s life as comfortable and fulfilling as possible. Because of this experience, Micek expanded her long established estate planning law practice to include personalized Elder Law and Medicaid planning. One that offers solutions and peace of mind, with caring and understanding. “I tell my clients all the time: ‘You have worked your whole life, you should protect your assets.’ They don’t have to lose everything,” said Micek, a partner with McMillan, Constabile, Maker &Perone, LLP, which has offices in Larchmont, Yorktown Heights and New York. “There are options to legally protect your family and loved ones. Some families can lose hundreds of thousands of dollars. You have to know your options.” As the American population grows older, more seniors are considering the importance of long-term financial and health care planning. Given the dramatic rise in health care costs and the reduction in government assistance, it becomes increasingly important to plan for your future. Micek advises clients about the importance of elder law and Medicaid planning to protect their assets for their families.

Her office helps senior citizens create comprehensive Medicaid plans, estate plans, durable powers of attorney, health care proxies, and living wills. Everyone worries about the rising cost of long-term care for our aging population. With current costs of approximately $10,000 a month or more depending on the level of care, it is easy to see how quickly medical and nursing home costs can wipe out a person's life savings. While some people may qualify for long-term health care insurance, many cannot afford to pay the premiums. For people who cannot afford long-term health care insurance, Pat Micek can create comprehensive estate plans that maximize their quality of life and protect the assets available to their family after their death. Creating an Estate plan is one of the most important things you can do for yourself and for your loved ones. An Estate Plan can help you meet financial and family goals that are important to you. Micek said people or their families should start Medicaid estate planning in their 70’s, but earlier if they have medical conditions. Due to her own experiences, Micek’s work always remains close to her heart. She offers information or reassurance on an immediate basis. Calls are returned promptly, services delivered when promised. Micek is dedicated to treating your family like her own. To contact Pat call her at (914) 834-3500.

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