Westchester Boomers & Beyond January ebook

Boomers d n o y e &B Westchester County

January 2015

What's new for Medicare?

Go to Medicare.gov

Wartburg

Our experienced, caring professionals are here for you p4

Glen Island Center earns 5-Star Government Rate for nursing and rehabilitation p9 Dominican Sisters Family Health Services Compassionate care in the comfort of your home p10

Talking Alternatives helps

family members to make tough decisions regarding a parent p13

Neighbors Home Care Services

When a helping hand is all you need p15

Legal advice for Medicaid & Asset-Protection planning.

Call (914) 816-2900 today!

See page 14

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January, 2015

Boomers & Beyond - Westchester

Providing the Highest Quality Home Health Care in Westchester & Putnam .OW ALSO SERVING THE "RONX $UTCHESS 2OCKLAND

Our Certified Home Health Aides, supervised by Registered Nurses, can assist you or your loved one with:

s 0ERSONAL #ARE s -EAL 0REPARATION AND (OUSEKEEPING s ,AUNDRY 3HOPPING AND Errands s #OMPANIONSHIP s %SCORT 3ERVICES TO !PPOINTMENTS

Call us to learn about our affordable rates on an hourly or live-in basis. Some third party payers provide reimbursement for our services.

800-305-9224 914-997-7912 A New York State-Licensed Home Health Care Agency An Affiliate of Visiting Nurse Services In Westchester CHAP Accredited

Westchester Care at Home, 360 Mamaroneck Ave, White Plains, NY 10605

ATTORNEYS AT LAW Many Years of Experience Protecting the Legal Interests of the Elderly & Special Needs Populations Advising Families about: • • • • • • • • •

Medicaid Asset Protection Planning Estate Planning & Administration Special Needs Home Care Long Term Care Health Care Proxies Powers of Attorney Guardianships

See more information on page 14

Client Testimonials I reached out to you during the most stressful time of life for both my loved ones and myself - horror had occurred to my dear loving mother.

My mom had fractured her hip and due to her frail health and advanced age required risky hip replacement surgery. Many issues legal and otherwise arose which I could not personally resolve. You not only resolved each and every one, but you continue to do so now, over 4 years later.

You always display extreme sincerity, compassion and friendship, using your vast experience and confidence in your ability, to continually bring satisfaction, positive results and a tremendous sense of relief and comfort to my loved ones and myself.

You have gone out of your way to visit Mom on multiple occasions in her Nursing house and we love you for it. As an attorney, friend, and a great man, I could not possibly hope to know anyone more phenomenal. The three greatest men I have ever known are my dear departed father, my dear departed father-in-law and Ely Rosenzveig.

– Jeff D.

Westchester Financial Center 50 Main Street, Suite #1275 White Plains, NY 10606 Email: Info@ejrosenlaw.com

I hired Ely to assist with my parents estate planning and it was a wise decision. He is a true expert in navigating through complex elder care law and procedures. His guidance was invaluable and his communication excellent. I would strongly recommend his services.

Tel: (914) 816-2900

– Tom C.

www.ejrosenlaw.com ELDER LAW

•

TRUSTS & ESTATES

Attorney advertising • Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome

•

EMPLOYMENT LAW

•

MEDIATION

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January, 2015

Boomers & Beyond - Westchester

Wartburg Celebrates One-Year Anniversary of State-of-the-Art Rehabilitation and Adult Day Services Center of Excellence and Its Regional Leadership in Patient Care During a recent breakfast celebration for 70 doctors, social workers, discharge nurses and trustees, Wartburg executives proudly celebrated the one-year anniversary of the opening of their free-standing, sub-acute rehabilitation facility – the only such facility in Westchester with all private rooms.

“Our rehabilitation center has consistently exceeded national and regional averages on key patient care standards in the past year,” said David Gentner, President and CEO of Wartburg. “That’s cause to celebrate, and we wanted to share our accomplishments with the health care and patient communities in Westchester.”

Wartburg, an award-winning senior services provider, is above national and regional averages for the hours of therapy patients receive per day, has a lower length of stay than its peers (21.7 days vs. 27 days regionally), has a greater percentage of patients released to their homes (78 percent vs. 70.8 percent nationally) and has a smaller re-hospitalization percent (14.8 percent vs. 22 percent regionally).* “Now that we have a new state-of-the-art building we have taken our well established rehab program to that next level and are achieving outcomes that even surpass our own high expectations,” said Paula Ress, administrator of the new center.

Mae Carpenter, Commissioner of Westchester County Department of Senior Programs and Services, was the featured speaker at the event and spoke about the county’s TIPS Program (Telehealth Intervention Programs for Seniors), for which Wartburg is a pilot site. TIPS is part of a larger campaign launched this summer by Westchester County called Successful Aging: It’s Everybody’s Business.

“TIPS helps seniors age successfully in their homes and involves families, community groups, and organizations devoted to seniors.

Wartburg is a pioneer in integrating its services with TIPS and adopting this new program,” said Commissioner Carpenter, who is also a member of Wartburg’s Board of Directors.

“Getting out ahead of illness for seniors is paramount to aging successfully,” she said.

TIPS combines monitoring vital signs such as blood pressure with a complete social check-up, and hands-on support from a network of volunteers including student technicians and nurses from Pace University.

For more information on Wartburg’s Rehabilitation and Adult Day Services Center of Excellence or to tour the new facility, please contact Angela Ciminello, Director of Development, at 914-513-5179 or aciminello@wartburg.org.

Wartburg Wartburg is an award-winning provider of comprehensive senior services, including independent living, assisted living, Alzheimer’s/dementia care, skilled nursing, rehabilitation, adult day services and hospice care. www.wartburg.org. Its 34-acre campus in Mount Vernon serves seniors and their families in southern Westchester and the northern Bronx, and now the tri-state area. Wartburg’s nursing home has been recognized by “U. S. News & World Report” as among the best nursing homes in New York State for the third straight consecutive year, in 2013. Over the past few years, Wartburg has launched an ambitious building expansion program, including the Friedrichs Residence, providing affordable housing for seniors with 61 independent living apartments, and a rehabilitation and adult day services center of excellence both opened in 2013. * Sources from CMS Nursing Home Compare, Commonwealth Fund and Medicare Payment Advisory Commission.

Boomers & Beyond - Westchester January, 2015

• Sub-Acute Rehabilitation • Skilled Nursing Facility • Adult Day Services • Home Health Care • Independent Living • Affordable Housing for Seniors • Assisted Living • Alzheimer’s/Dementia Care • Respite/Short-Term Stay • Hospice Care • Caregiver Support • Spiritual Care

PAGE 5

wartburg.org

914-699-0800 One Wartburg Place Mount Vernon, NY 10552

IINDEPENDENT NDEPENDENT LIVING LIVING | AASSISTED SSIS TED LIVING LIVING | AALZHEIMER’S/DEMENTIA LZZHEIMERwartburgny ’S / DEMENTIA thewartburg NURSING NURSING HHOME OME | AADULT DULT DDAY AY CCARE ARE | HHOME OME CCARE ARRE | RREHABILITATION EHABILITATION

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January, 2015

Boomers & Beyond - Westchester

Advertiser’s Index

Our View

A&J Home Care, Inc.......................................................................12

‘Tis the season – to make a New Year’s resolution. Don’t roll your eyes or sigh.

Or do both.

When it comes to making a New Year’s resolution, here is the key. The difference between you breaking or sticking to it.

Ready?

When making a new year's resolution, it is important to set realistic and attainable goals. Otherwise, it may lead to frustration and become very difficult to accomplish. The key is your willingness to adjust and make changes in your life, as this will help you stay motivated in achieving your goals.

Some people fail when they do not realize the significance of their goals when it comes to improving their daily lives. It may also help to have an award for every goal reached to help you stay on track and keep you motivated.

Need help keeping your resolution?

You can turn to family, friends and us, Boomers & Beyond. In the January issue, we include a feature on ways to keep your resolution, which is important for our vibrant senior set. Many of these resolutions will center around your health and well-being, which is important.

Remember that it will take time. Usually resolutions are not achieved overnight.

Keep in mind, you have a lot of support right here - and at home.

You can do it! Have a happy, healthy 2015!

So get in touch at info@healthcarenewspaper.com.

Until then, Happy Holidays from all of us at Boomers & Beyond.

B&M Capital...................................................................................11 Burke Rehabilitation Hospital...........................................................7 ColumbiaDoctors............................................................................19 Dominican Sisters Family Health Service........................................10 Ely J. Rosenzveig & Associates, PC.............................................3,14 Glen Island Center for Nursing and Rehabilitation...........................9 Margeliz Center..............................................................................18 Neighbors Home Care Services.......................................................15 Talking Alternatives.........................................................................13 VNA of Hudson Valley.....................................................................20 Victoria Home...................................................................................8 The Wartburg..................................................................................5 Westchester Audiology...................................................................16 Westchester Care at Home..............................................................2 Westchester Library System...........................................................17

Westchester County

Boomers nd & Beyo

Jim Stankiewicz, General Manager

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) ••• 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 - Westchester, New York edition - Vol. 8 No. 1 - 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.

Next Month in Boomers & Beyond…

American Heart Month

GO RED FOR WOMEN!

Professional Cardiovascular Week—Feb 9-15 Family Benefits of Hospice Care Healthcare Consumer Month The right care at the right time!

Reverse Mortgages

Boomers & Beyond - Westchester January, 2015

PAGE 7

Great indoor winter activities for seniors With winter upon us, the search for fun indoor activities has begun.

We know it can be challenging to find entertaining ways to stay busy indoors when it’s too cold to go outside.

Luckily, a little creativity goes a long way. These simple ideas for fun indoor activities from our experienced caregivers will help your loved one stay busy and cozy through the long winter months.

Scrapbooking: Scrapbooking is a great way for your senior to keep busy and joyful during the long winter season as he or she remembers fun and special events. It is also a nice way for you to spend time with your favorite senior sharing and categorizing their photos, stories and memeories.

Baking: Delicious home-baked goodies are always irresistible, especially when it is cold out.

Spending time in the kitchen is the perfect way to spend a cold day for bakers of all levels. Not only will the house smell delectable, but the oven will provide a cozy warmth throughout the day.

Working out: Cold weather is not a good excuse to stop exercising.

When the outdoors is too cold for brisk walks, try an exercise DVD. There are fitness routines designed specifically with seniors in mind, so the moves and pacing are tailored for their fitness levels and physical abilities. The DVDs are available to order online (check the local library for rental options, as well) and on days it’s safe to drive, free classes are available at many local, churches, libraries, and community centers.

No two patients are alike…

Why should their rehabilitation be?

BURKE REHABILITATION HOSPITAL offers custom-designed programs based on your individual needs. Whether you have experienced a life changing event such as a stroke, brain injury, neurological condition or joint replacement, Burke is here to help you reach your maximum recovery.

You are unique. Make sure your rehabilitation journey is too.

Pioneering Rehabilitation

785 MAMARONECK AVENUE WHITE PLAINS, NY 10605 888-99-BURKE WWW.BURKE.ORG

PAGE 8

January, 2015

Boomers & Beyond - Westchester

Try these New Year’s resolutions to look and feel better The New Year is approaching, which means one thing: You have to make a New Year’s resolution.

There are plenty of standbys, such as losing weight and saving money. Seniors can really benefit from making healthy resolutions – especially ones that help prevent illness and injury. So what are you waiting for?

Here are five New Year's resolutions that will keep you feeling young, healthy and vibrant.

Not only will these New Year's resolutions improve your mental and physical health, they'll provide social opportunities and benefit your life in multiple ways.

Exercise or start a new physical activity Exercise doesn't have to exhausting, really! And it certainly doesn't have to feel like work. Older adults are increasingly looking to classes such as yoga and tai chi to not only increase physical health, but to meet people and widen their social circles. Other activities like local walking clubs can be found at many senior organizations and community centers.

Eat more fresh foods Stay away from processed foods! They are easy to throw together for a meal, but they come with a host of health issues and concerns, and they're not worth the hassle. Make a promise to eat more fresh, healthy fruits and vegetables and you'll see a noticeable difference in the way you look and feel – and it takes very little work on your end.

Schedule regular checkups The fact is, with age comes an increased risk of illness and other complications such as high blood pressure, osteoporosis and other medical conditions. Not a problem. Making sure that you schedule a regular annual checkup can help in early detection and prevention.

Participate in cognitive health activities Mental health is an important aspect of health that we tend to overlook. Keep your mind engaged and stimulated through a language class, book club or by playing brain games and trivia on the computer.

Make your home safer About one in three adults over the age of 65 falls each year. Many of these falls are preventable, especially if home safety tips are implemented. Tips like moving cords out of walkways, having good lighting near beds and taping down edges of carpet and rugs can help tremendously to decrease the number and severity of falls for seniors.

Boomers & Beyond - Westchester January, 2015

PAGE 9

My Second Home of FSW Celebrates with Candle Lighting Ceremony More than 50 people gathered at My Second Home of FSW in Mt. Kisco on Friday evening, November 7, 2014 to celebrate National Caregivers Month and Alzheimer’s Awareness Month with its annual candle lighting ceremony. In addition to honoring three outstanding caregivers, Roger Froelich, David Gallo and Francesca Hurd, FSW also used this occasion to celebrate My Second Home’s recent selection by the National Adult Day Services Association (NADSA) as the 2014 Outstanding Adult Day Center. All those attending the ceremony (caregivers, volunteers, donors, community members, FSW Board members, My Second Home Advisory Board members, representatives from Fordham University and Westchester County Department of Senior Programs and Services, and Elaine Sproat, President & CEO|

photo by Anthony Mairo

Alzheimer's Association - Hudson Valley/Rockland/Westchester, NY Chapter), were treated to a video showing Rina Bellamy, Program Director, and Susan B. Wayne, President and CEO of FSW, accepting the award at NADSA’s annual conference in Charlotte,

North Carolina, on October 11, 2014. Adding to the excitement of the evening was news of the continuing progress on FSW’s new intergenerational center, which is currently under construction in White Plains and is modeled after My Second Home.

My Second Home was developed by FSW in 1998 as an innovative way to address the needs of the burgeoning population of older adults in Westchester County. Housed in the same building as the Mt. Kisco Child Care Center, My Second Home provides a safe, nurturing and home-like environment where older adults can continue to find meaning and dignity in their daily lives through stimulating activities, wellness programs, personal care, excellent nutrition and “living room to living room” transportation. What sets My Second Home apart from other programs is its unique intergenerational component, which brings children from the Mt. Kisco Child Care Center and adults together on a daily basis to share in activities and forge relationships that promote mutual understanding.

Each of the honored caregivers, who either have a spouse or a parent participating in the program, expressed their deep appreciation to the staff of My Second Home.

They remarked that the staff is like a second family, providing the constant support that enables them to keep their loved ones safe and at home. FSW is pleased that the new Lanza Family Center for All Ages in White Plains will give caregivers in southern and central Westchester the opportunity to benefit from the wonderful programming that has been available to their caregivers further north.

FSW was founded in 1954 and runs more than 50 social service and mental health programs for all ages, including Adoption, Head Start/Early Head Start, Adult and Youth Residences and Veterans Outreach and Support.

Visit www.fsw.org for more information.

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

By Kathy Herrmann Executive Director Drum Hill Senior Living Community Peekskill New York

PAGE 10

January, 2015

Boomers & Beyond - Westchester

I was nominated to be caregiver of the year by VNA and Hospice Care of Westchester and Putnam. I accepted this honor and shared in the celebration at the Jefferson Valley Mall in Yorktown Heights. It was a wonderful event with holiday music and beautiful decorations which included a tree of life with angels in honor of lost loved ones.

Hospice helped me and my family through a trying time when my husband was diagnosed with ALS. The nurse on the case was always there to lend a hand and support whether it be medical or emotional. As I said that night being a caregiver is a hard job but rewarding to me because I knew I helped make his last days comfortable and peaceful.

I would like to thank the hospice team including Ms. Michelle Quirolo, President and CEO of VNA & Hospice Care of Westchester & Putnam and Rose Rosenberg, Vice President and all the nurses and staff especially Mary Lou, Helen and Mary Ellen that make such a difference for people in this trying time in their lives.

Dominican Sisters Family Health Service Compassionate care in the privacy and comfort of your own home Services Include: UÊ- i`Ê ÕÀà }Ê UÊ iÊ i> Ì Ê `iÃÊ Ê UÊ* Þà V> ]Ê-«iiV Ê> `ÊÊ Ê "VVÕ«>Ì > Ê/ iÀ>« ià UÊ >ÃiÊ > >}i i Ì UÊ À VÊ >ÀiÊ > >}i i Ì Ê Õ`à Ê6> iÞ\Ê £{ {£ £Èx{Ê Ê iÜÊ9 À Ê ÌÞ\ÊÓ£Ó ÓÎ ÈxnÈÊ

www.dsfhs.org

Specialty Services: UÊ >À` >VÊ >ÀiÊ > >}i i ÌÊ UÊ >LiÌiÃÊ >ÀiÊ > >}i i Ì UÊ >ÌiÀ > Ê `Ê-iÀÛ ViÃÊ UÊ- V > Ê7 À Ê-iÀÛ Vià UÊ7 Õ `ÊEÊ"ÃÌ ÞÊ > >}i i Ì UÊ*>ÃÌ À> Ê >Ài }Ê Ã > `\ÊÈΣ ÇÓn ä£n£ À Ý\ÊÇ£n ÈÈx ÈxxÇ

Beating the winter blues

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.

Feeling the winter time blues?

Well, you aren’t alone.

Depression is common in the winter months for both seniors.

A percentage of the population suffers from an affliction called “Seasonal Affective Disorder,” or SAD. In people with SAD, the lack of natural sunlight in the winter time upsets the sleep-wake cycle and other circadian rhythms, as well as the release of serotonin, one of the brain’s “feel-good” chemicals.

Fortunately, SAD is less common in seniors over 55, but the senior population may still suffer from depression at this time of year.

Here are some tips for beating the winter blues.

The Great Outdoors Getting outdoors and soaking in whatever natural sunlight you can will help. For seniors, outdoor means a change of scenery and environment that can stave off winter doldrums of feeling cooped up indoors. Just stay inside if the wind chill makes it feel below freezing.

If you have to venture outside, bundle up. Don’t leave any part of your body exposed, since seniors are especially susceptible to frostbite.

Exercise If you can’t go for a walk in the great outdoors, the next best thing is a regular indoor exercise routine.

Volunteer From soup kitchens to mailing packages to soldiers or distributing toys to children in need, there are many charity organizations in need of help this time of year.

Maintain a healthy diet The darkness, colder winter temperatures and the sense of “hibernation” can cause us to overeat and to crave sweets and carbohydrates – a clear prescription for unhealthy weight gain.

Try to stay with healthy foods and balance your food intake with sufficient physical activity and exercise. Soups with meat for protein and an assortment of vegetables can be a warm, satisfying alternative to high calorie foods.

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 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

PAGE 12

January, 2015

Boomers & Beyond - Westchester

• Be available to the parents for advice, but never give it — or your opinion — unless asked.

• And when the parents don’t put your requested advice to use, bite your tongue.

• Get extra time with baby by volunteering to change the diapers.

• Don’t expect perfection — from the child, the parents or yourself.

• Respect the wishes and rules of the parents.

• Always let your grandchildren know you love them, in whatever fashion is comfortable for you.

Top Tips

for new

Grandparents

• Let them know you’ll always be honest with them, too, and that they can trust you.

• Kiss them every chance you get.

• Get down on the floor and play with them.

• Be someone the parents enjoy having around... so they'll have you around often.

• Make every effort to see and be with your grandchildren so they get to know you, always know you.

Becoming a grandparent is a wondrous thing.

For most of us, it’s a long-anticipated, highly emotional event. But this enormous life transition can also have a few unanticipated surprises.

If you’re a new grandparent, or about to become one, here are a few tips for navigating this big new role successfully. We know you will nail it.

Here are some helpful tips: • Be prepared to be unreasonably crazy in love. The love for a grandchild is unlike anything you’ve felt before.

• Be gentle with Mom and Dad — even when they don’t do things your way.

• Don't be afraid of acting silly.

• Give the parents all the love and support you can muster.

• Make no comparisons, good or bad, to your other grandchildren.

• When the parents drive you nuts, smile instead of screaming, as they hold the keys to baby visits.

A&J Home Care, Inc. A name that families have learned to trust with the care of their loved ones.

A Licensed Home Care Agency 359 East Main St. Mt. Kisco, NY 10549 When temporary or long term Nursing or personal care is needed, let our professional staff assist you to plan for your individual needs.

,ŽŵĞ ĂƌĞ ^ƚĂĨĨ͙ Registered Nurses, Licensed Practical Nurses, Home Health Aides, Personal Care Aides, Companions, PRI Certified R.N. & Geriatric Care Assessments.

Please call for a free consultation. We are available 24 hours a day and 7 days a week.

Medicaid approved - CHAP accredited Tel 914.244.9570 Fax 914.242.0389 ʹ Ajhomecare.com

• Have lots of pictures taken of you with them — especially if you're typically the one behind the camera.

Boomers & Beyond - Westchester January, 2015

PAGE 13

Game on! Studies show video games benefit senior health It may be time to borrow that controller from your grandson. Studies have proven that video games may be beneficial to senior health. Though mom's have criticized these games for years, you may actually benefit from them. Consider these reasons why video games are beneficial to your health.

1. Games may improve balance Researchers discovered seniors who played brain-training computer games had better balance than seniors who didn’t. The findings were published in the Journal of Gerontology. It may not be a conscious effort, but walking and other motor skills require a little cognition, which suggests that higher rates of falls and other balance-related accidents could correlate to poor brain health.

Playing games helped maintain older adults' walking speed and overall balance.

2. They lessen stress and depression levels A 2011 study from East Carolina University discovered that video games may help lessen depression and anxiety in people who deal with those mental health issues. The video games helped boost participants' moods and had both short- and long-term positive effects for them. The researchers also found the games served as an outlet for stress and helped participants relax.

3. Games improve vision Despite claims that sitting too close to the television may hurt your eyes, video games could improve vision. A researcher from McMaster University in Ontario discovered in 2012 that older adults with cataracts may improve their vision by playing individual shooter games such as Halo or Call of Duty. These games are fast-paced, cause rapid eye movement and require lots of attention, which can help people see things more clearly.

4. They increase exercise levels Certain games, especially those that require physical interaction like Wii games, can help get people moving, U.S. News and World Report stated. There are several Wii games that can get seniors off the couch, including bowling and boxing. These games can help improve cardiovascular health by increasing blood flow and help older adults burn a few calories too. It can also encourage seniors to socialize, as they can invite friends from around the retirement community to get together for game tournaments or casual play.

Are You Or Family Members Facing Decisions About Transitional Life Situations For Your Parent?

Are frayed relationships among your children making family discussions and decisions difficult?

We help families reach agreement through discussion rather than confrontation.

This is not therapy. This is an issue oriented process. This is mediation.

Mediation Is About Communication.

Talking Alternatives, a mediation firm, specializes in Elder and Adult Family Mediation and Parent/Teen Mediation.

Talking Alternatives Visit our website: www.talkingalternatives.net or Call us at 646-682-9319

ATTORNEYS AT LAW Many Years of Experience Protecting the Legal Interests of the Elderly & Special Needs Populations

Why should I spend money hiring attorneys to do asset protection planning for me and my loved ones?

Currently, the monthly cost for nursing home care in New York ranges between $10,000-$15,000, and properly certified home health attendants (nurse aides) can cost as much or more for round- the-clock home care. Statistically, it is likely that most people will need either or both of these care options as they grow older. It is critical that you plan appropriately to best minimize the strain that elder care costs may have on your estate, and to help put you in the best position possible to qualify for benefits that are largely covered by the government, under Medicare or Medicaid.

Our firm has attorneys with extensive experience in developing tax-effective action plans for our clients that help protect their assets from government imposition. We have also been very successful in negotiating the complex bureaucratic minefield in which Medicaid is now mired. We have achieved remarkable results for our clients on a host of Medicaid related issues, from obtaining Medicaid approvals for coverage of home care and institutional care benefits, to very accommodative resolutions of Medicaid spousal recovery claims, where the office of Medicaid aggressively pursues the non-institutionalized (i.e., or “community”) spouse for Medicaid benefits provided.

Why should I have a lawyer prepare my will?

If you die without a Will, the law, not you, determines how your assets are divided and to whom they are given. A poorly drafted Will may result in a sizeable chunk of your assets not ending up where you want them to go. We are an experienced law firm that can expertly craft your will to address your long-term care, tax, estate planning, and asset protection planning issues. It is in your best interest that planning be done properly so as to minimize the tax burden on your estate.

Our experience and skill in the fields of Trusts, Wills, and Estates enables our firm to uniquely tailor estate planning to your individual needs. We will review your entire estate and draft a personalized plan that will best direct the disposition of your assets after death, whether through your Will, or by means of testamentary substitutes (trusts, joint-asset ownership with right of survivorship, or by beneficiary designation in life insurance policies, annuities, or individual retirement accounts).

My father is having difficulty caring for himself. I am afraid he will no longer be able to live on his own. I am worried about finding the money to pay for his care, whether he stays at home or moves to an assisted living facility or nursing home. What do I do?

Your concerns are certainly daunting, and heart-rending. Our firm offers you a caring hand, an open ear, and uncompromising professional competence, and commitment. We will help find for you solutions that best suit your needs, using the latest tax, trust, and other asset protection strategies available under the law.

Westchester Financial Center 50 Main Street, Suite #1275 White Plains, NY 10606 Email: Info@ejrosenlaw.com

Tel: (914) 816-2900 www.ejrosenlaw.com ELDER LAW

•

The law firm of Ely J. Rosenzveig & Associates, P.C. practices in all aspects of elder law, including trust and estate planning, administration, and litigation, tax counsel, asset protection and special needs planning, Medicaid, Medicare, and Social Security disability benefits, guardianships, long term care planning, spousal recovery claims, and Medicaid lien resolutions.

TRUSTS & ESTATES

Attorney advertising • Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome

•

EMPLOYMENT LAW

•

MEDIATION

Boomers & Beyond - Westchester

January, 2015

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Be prepared: Check out the winter safety guide Remember how nasty last winter was? Well, guess what, this winter may be worse.

But don’t worry. Boomers & Beyond is here to provide you with a special winter survival guide.

Beware of the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning Many people resort to unconventional methods to heat their home during power outages. Hundreds of cases of carbon monoxide poisoning have been reported this winter alone because people have attempted to heat their home with grills or they placed a generator indoors without proper ventilation. Do not use gas or charcoal grills or generators in your home. In addition, make sure that you have working carbon monoxide detectors in your home. Also, be on the lookout for the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning: • Shortness of breath • Confusion • Nausea and vomiting • Abnormal heartbeat • Dizziness and drowsiness If these symptoms are consistently ignored, they will continue to worsen, resulting in: unconsciousness, coma, and eventual death. It is important to pay attention to physical symptoms because carbon monoxide is a colorless and odorless gas.

Help others!

You can help seniors to stay warm during the winter months by donating to organizations that help pay the high costs of heating during this extreme winter.

No senior should have to go without heat because they are having trouble making ends meet.

Preventing Falls The number one concern for seniors is fall prevention. Wintery conditions only increase the risk of suffering a catastrophic fall.

Here are some winter safety tips that will help you stay safe: • Wear appropriate footwear that is both warm and provides waterproof traction.

• Plan ahead so that you can take your time and shorten your stride to make smaller, safer steps.

• Keep your hands and arms free to increase balance.

• Be sure to salt walkways and porch stairs.

• Finally, don’t be afraid to ask for help. Make sure that you have a neighbor, friend, or family member that you can call on to help clear snow and ice or to help you run errands.

Prepare for power outages While you may not have worried much about wintertime power outages in the past, the winter of 2013-14 may have made you all too familiar with this hazard. Much of the country has been pummeled by storms that seem to hit right after the other. Ice, snow, and high winds have caused wide spread outages in parts of the country. Some people have gone up to a week without heat or power. Low temperatures and power outages can be a deadly combination for seniors who are especially susceptible to the effects of cold weather. Here are some simple steps you can take to prepare for potential power outages: • Have flashlights with fresh batteries readily available.

• Keep a stockpile of water and other non-perishable foods ready to in care of emergency.

• If possible, invest in a backup generator.

Caregivers are licensed & bonded • Home Health Aides • Personal Care Aides • 24 hour Live-In Aides • RNs & LPNs Compassionate, comprehensive & customized services • Medication Management • Escort to and from Appointments • Bathing Services • Companions/Sitters • Grocery Shopping/Errands 24 Hour Emergency On-Call Service Private pay, Medicaid & Most Long Term Care insurance accepted

Serving Westchester County since 1983

914-949-3112 148 Hamilton Ave., White Plains, NY 10601 www.neighborshomecareservices.com

A Program of

PAGE 16 Anthony Macera, M.A. CCC-A, FAAA NY State Licensed and Certified Audiologist & Hearing Aid Dispenser

January, 2015

Boomers & Beyond - Westchester

A customized hearing healthcare solution will be identified by our New York State licensed and certified audiologist that will address you hearing loss and lifestyle needs. Our digital hearing devices cover the entire spectrum of hearing impairments. They will help you hear and communicate better with those around you.

Most of our hearing devices come with an industry leading 4 Year Warranty. We are, also, one of the only area providers of Lyric, the first and only 100% invisible, extended wear hearing aid (worn up to 3 months!).

So, why don’t you give us a call at 914-253-9160 to schedule your complimentary hearing consultation and begin your journey to hearing like a PRO! Do you ever have difficulty hearing or understanding speech in restaurants?

At parties or family gatherings? Do you feel that people are mumbling all the time? Is the volume on your television creeping up? Is telephone conversation sometimes difficult to understand? If you answered yes to any of these questions, there is a strong possibility that you may have some degree of hearing loss. It has been shown that if a hearing loss is present, a person has to struggle to hear speech.

Undue stress is put on that individual. This stress can have a negative effect on a persons quality of life. It can cause that person to avoid many social situations.

This, in turn, can cause that person to become more isolated. Over the past 15 years Westchester Audiology and Hearing Aid Specialist, P.C. has been helping people hear and communicate better by providing superior healthcare to their patients.

We are excited to announce the arrival of our new standard 4-year warranty!

Our wide selection of styles, capabilities, features and colors ensure that your hearing needs will be met, and our warranty gives you the protection that you deserve.

Anthony Macera, M.A. CCC-A, FAAA NY State Licensed and Certified Audiologist & Hearing Aid Dispenser

Westchester Audiologyand Hearing Aid Specialist p.c.

14 Rye Ridge Plaza, Ste.247, Rye Brook, NY 914-253-9160 www.westchesteraudiology.com &REE 0ARKING s &INANCING !VAILABLE s 0ARLIAMO )TALIANO s (ABLAMOS %SPAĂ—OL

Boomers & Beyond - Westchester January, 2015

Join EPIC today for additional savings on your Medicare Part D prescription drugs.

For many seniors, it pays to enroll, especially since income levels were expanded in 2014.

The New York State 2014-15 budget included the expansion of the Elderly Pharmaceutical Insurance Coverage Program (EPIC) to cover the prescription needs of more seniors.

Eligible income brackets were expanded from $35,000 to $75,000 for singles and from $50,000 to $100,000 for married couples.

The new income brackets will be added to existing ones and current EPIC members will not be impacted. EPIC income is based on the previous income year and does continue to include the reporting of net Social Security Income. Seniors must also be a NYS resident, 65 or older and be enrolled or eligible to enroll in a Medicare Part D drug plan and not be receiving full Medicaid benefits.

EPIC provides secondary prescription coverage for Medicare Part D and EPIC covered drugs after any Medicare Part D deductible is met. By using EPIC together with Medicare Part D, members save more money on the cost of their prescription drugs.

For many seniors, it is less expensive to enroll in EPIC and Medicare Part D than just Medicare Part D alone. EPIC pays the Part D drug plan premiums up to $37.23 per month in 2014 for members with income up to $23,000 single or $29,000 married.

Higher income members are responsible for paying their Medicare Part D premiums but will receive Part D assistance in the form of reduced EPIC deductibles.

Seniors may apply for EPIC at any time during the year even if they do not have a Medicare Part D Plan. Enrolling in EPIC will provide eligible seniors a Special Enrollment Period from Medicare allowing them to join a Medicare Part D drug plan or switch to another Medicare Part D plan outside of their Open Enrollment Period.

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For an application or more information, please call the toll-free EPIC Helpline at 1-800-332-3742 Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM or visit the EPIC website at www.health.ny.gov and click on EPIC for Seniors on the left side of the page.

Have questions? Go to one of the Senior Benefits Information Centers available at 10 Westchester County public libraries. Call 914 231.3260 or go to www.westchesterlibraries.org/senior-benefts-information-centers/

White Plains Hospital was pleased to recognize 13 extraordinary physicians and surgeons recently for excellence in patient satisfaction: surgeons Dr. Paul Fragner, Dr. Mark Gordon, Dr. Seth Neubardt, Dr. Robert Reiffel, Dr. Jack Stern, Dr. Carl Weber, Dr. Kaare Weber, Dr. Philip Weber, and Dr. Mia Wright as well as gastroenterologists Dr. Robert Fath, Dr. Steven Fink, Dr. Seth Gendler, and Dr. Bryan Green.

According to the Press Ganey Company, the largest vendor in the country that measures patient satisfaction, these doctors all ranked in the Top 10% in the nation for Ambulatory Surgery patients. The hospital recognized these physicians by hanging an elevator cling outside the surgical waiting area. This is not the first recognition for White Plains Hospital's excellence in Patient Satisfaction. Earlier this year, Healthgrades recognized the hospital for performing in the Top 5% nationally in Patient Experience.

For additional information, visit http://www.wphospital.org.

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January, 2015

Boomers & Beyond - Westchester

2051 Baldwin Rd., Yorktown Heights, NY 10598 914.276.7601 www.margelizcenter.com

A UNIQUE APPROACH TO MEMORY CARE AND PHYSICAL WELLNESS. The Margeliz Center Social Adult Program was created by two passionate Occupational Therapists.

They bring a fresh approach to already existing ideology, making the Margeliz Center one of a kind.

Our programs are developed on proven research and executed with loving kindness, dedication, understanding and delivered with an abundant amount of joy.

The Margeliz Center is known for their excellence in providing services to individuals with conditions such as Stroke, Parkinson's, PTSD, Pictured from the left, Margaret M. Dobkowski, COTA, CEO TBI, MS, Alzheimer's and other and Eliza Zelazowski, OTR/ L, CEO. dementia related conditions.

Our center includes many complementary programs: Memory Training, Wellness Center, Occupational, Physical and Speech Therapy, Therapeutic Recreation and even in-home-visits from medical specialties such as podiatry, neurology, psychology, internal medicine and more.

Please inquire as to how we can assist you with cost reductions.

Phone: 914.276.7601 Email: info@margelizcenter.com

Proud members Cambridge Who's Who registry of executives, professionals and enterpreneures lifetime member

Boomers & Beyond - Westchester January, 2015

PAGE 19

SPECIALIZING IN CARDIOLOGY, INTERNAL MEDICINE AND GASTROENTEROLOGY

HONORED ON

‘Best Doctors’ LISTS YEAR AFTER YEAR

ROBERT BELKIN, MD GABRIELLE BOLTON, MD MARK BORKIN, MD SUSAN CAMPANILE, MD LEO CARDILLO, MD MAXWELL CHAIT, MD ALBERT DELUCA, MD JEFFREY DONIS, MD JOYDEEP GHOSH, MD LAWRENCE GLASSBERG, MD EDUARDO GRANATO, MD CRAIG HJEMDAHL-MONSEN, MD KUMAR KALAPATAPU, MD

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Visit us at one of our locations: 19 Bradhurst Avenue Suite 700 Hawthorne, NY 10532 (914)593-7800

15 North Broadway 2nd Floor White Plains, NY 10601 (914)428-6000

5 Coates Drive Suite 2 Goshen, NY 10924 (845)294-1234

30 Greenridge Avenue Suite 207 White Plains, NY 10605 (914)328-8555

180 East Hartsdale Avenue Suite 1E Hartsdale, NY 10530 (914)725-2010

3 Michael Frey Drive Eastchester, NY 10709 (914)337-3500

688 White Plains Road Suite 210 Scarsdale, NY 10583 (914)723-3322

334 Route 202 Bailey Court Somers, NY 10589 (914)277-4367

154 Pike Street Port Jervis, NY 12771 (845) 858-4444

105 Stevens Avenue Suite 101 Mount Vernon, NY 10550 (914)667-8777

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January, 2015

Boomers & Beyond - Westchester

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