Boone County Senior News November 2016

Page 9

November 3, 2016

November

Free Consultation • Wills • Trusts • Probate • Powers of Attorney • Nursing Home Planning • Real Estate

Veterans Day Friday Nov. 11th

John H. Maville Attorney At Law 815-544-3165 www.mavillelaw.com Suite 307, 600 S. State, Belvidere

For Independent Seniors

BOONE COUNTY

Now Age 55+

SENIOR LIVING A MONTHLY FOUR PAGE SECTION FOR SENIORS

Honor Those Who Have Served

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Many people confuse Veterans Day and Memorial Day. Memorial Day is a day for remembering and honoring military personnel who died in the service of their country, particularly those who died in battle or as a result of wounds sustained in battle. While those who died are also remembered, Veterans Day is a day set aside to thank and honor ALL those who served honorably in the military in both wartime and peacetime. In fact, Veterans Day is largely intended to thank living veterans for their service, to acknowledge that their contributions to our national security are appreciated, and to underscore the fact that all those who served, not only those who died, have truly sacrificed and done their duty.

I will share with you one of my favorite quotes about Veterans Day. “Thanksgiving is a day when we pause to give thanks for the things we have. Veterans Day is a day we pause to give thanks to the people who fought and sometimes died for the things we have.”

The heavy price in lives we have paid. In WWI we lost 116,516 members of this great nation. In WWII we lost another 405,399. In Korea another 36,515. In Vietnam we lost 58,815. The War on Terrorism has cost another 8,000 men and women of this great Country. It is the price we paid to live in the greatest Country in the world. It is the price we paid and pay still, to live and enjoy true freedom and privileges. We must try to understand that we do not have the slightest concept of what it is to live without freedom, for freedom is all we have ever known.

I was a medical corpsman in Vietnam with the 101st Airborne from 1970-1971. There is a Memorial Wall about the men and 8 women nurses who lost their lives while serving in Vietnam. I will share some facts about the Wall with you. There are three sets of fathers and sons on the Wall. 39,996 on the Wall were just 22 or younger. The largest age group, 8,283 were just 19 years old. 3,103 were 18 years old. Five soldiers on the Wall were 17 years old. Five soldiers on the Wall were 16 years old. One soldier, PFC Dan Bullock was 15 years old. 997 soldiers were killed on their first day in Vietnam. 1,148 soldiers were killed on their last day in Vietnam. 31 sets of brothers are on the Wall. Thirty one sets of parents lost 2 of their sons.

Every war has its own story and was paid for with a heavy price . The stories are all sad, but that is the price we paid. So when you see a veteran thank him or her, not only Veteran’s Day but any day. The thank yous will not cost you much but they will sure make a Veterans Day. Greg Kelm, Vietnam Veteran

JOIN US FOR THE VETERANS DAY PARADE Friday, Nov. 11th at 9:30 AM at Kishwaukee & Ogden Street On W. Lincoln Ave.

Served With Cup Of Soup Or Tossed Salad, Choice Of Potato, Vegetable Of The Day, Rolls & Your Choice Of Ice Cream, Rice Or Tapioca Pudding, Or Jell-O.

Remember To Vote November 8th

FRIDAY WALLEYE DINNER $7.95 BREAKFAST EVERY DAY....STARTING AT $3.95 1/2 Orders Available

NEW ITEMS ADDED DAILY! Senior Citizen Discounts Carryouts Anytime

123 Meadow St. • Belvidere • 815-547-4155

Elections decide the leadership that guides legislation and enforcement of regulations. The right to vote is something many people take for granted, but elsewhere in the world many people have no say with regard to their political leaders, which only emphasizes the importance of participating in the election process whenever you’re afforded the opportunity to do so.

Before voting, voters should research the respective candidates for each election. To better understand candidates’ platforms, visit their websites as well as those of nonpartisan political organizations, such as The League of Women Voters. Deciding who to vote for requires more than just siding with a particular political party.

Read as much as you can on the candidates’ beliefs, concerns and voter history. This will help you make the best decision possible. In the days leading up to Election Day, confirm your polling location and voting options.

Specializing In Short & Long Term Care Quality Healthcare Provided By A Professional Staff In addition to the highest quality care, we also strive to maintain the highest quality of life.

MapleCrest

4452 Squaw Prairie Road, Belvidere, IL 61008 tel: 815.547.6377 • fax: 815.547.3857 www.maplecrestcare.com

For A Private Tour Call Our Admissions Department Today

Rehabilitation Services Our rehab services extend far beyond the physical - it is about serving every aspect of an individual with care, kindness and respect. Our goal is to provide the necessary approach to facilitate a complete return to health and successful return to home.

Serving Boone County Over 40 Years!

Nor thwoods

2250 Pearl Street, Belvidere, IL 61008 tel: 815.544.0358 • fax: 815.544.5006 www.northwoodscare.com

Page 10

November 3, 2016

BOONE COUNTY

Belvidere Funeral Home Inc.

SENIOR LIVING A MONTHLY FOUR PAGE SECTION FOR SENIORS

Memory Loss Is Not An Automatic Side Effect Of Aging No one, regardless of age, is immune to random bouts of memory loss. While misplaced car keys or forgetting items on your grocery list are nothing to get worked up over, many men and women over 50 do start to worry about memory lapses, especially when they start to occur with more frequency than they might have just a few years ago. But while memory loss might be quickly associated with aging, increased forgetfulness is not an inevitable side effect of getting older, a fact that those at or approaching retirement age should find comforting.

When considering the relationship between memory and aging, it’s important that men and women recognize the distinction between memory lapses and dementia, as the two are not one and the same. As a person ages, his or her hippocampus, the region of the brain involved in the formation and retrieval of memories, often deteriorates. This can affect how long it takes to learn and recall information. But just because this process is slower does not mean it’s a warning sign of dementia, which is the loss of certain mental functions, including memory. Though taking longer to recall information can be frustrating, many people still retain their ability to recall information. In addition, while dementia brought on by conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease or Parkinson’s disease is untreatable, there are things men and women can do to strengthen their memories. * Start playing games. Games that test the mind have long been believed to benefit the brain, though some remain skeptical about the true impact of brain games. However, a University of Iowa study funded by the National Institute on Aging found that brain games may in fact pay numerous and long-term dividends. In the study, 681 healthy volunteers over the age of 40 were divided into four groups. One group played computerized crossword puzzles, and three other groups played a brain training video game from Posit Science designed specifically to enhance the speed and accuracy of visual processing. The volunteers showed less decline in visual processing as well as in other tests that measured concentration, memory and the ability to shift quickly between tasks, and the benefits from the training games lasted as long as seven years after training. Brain games are now more accessible than ever before, as players can access such games on their smart phones, tablets, ereaders, and computers. And in addition to being effective, the games also provide entertainment value. * Alter your routine. Many working professionals recognize that each day tends to have its mundane moments.

The brain can grow accustomed to these moments, which tend to be a routine part of the day. But altering your daily routine can jar the brain awake, forcing it to focus during those times that had become mundane but now present new challenges. Something as simple as alternating driving routes to work from day to day or preparing some new, yet healthy, breakfast each morning can help the brain stay alert and sharp. * Become a social butterfly. Maintaining a social life as you age is a great way to keep in touch with friends and family. But there’s another reason to continue to be socially engaged. A 2008 study spearheaded by the clinical trials administrative director at Southern California Kaiser Permanente Medical Group and published in the American Journal of Public Health found that older women who maintained large social networks were 26 percent less likely to develop dementia than women with smaller social networks. In addition, those who had daily contact with friends and family cut their risk of dementia by nearly half. The study also noted that regular social interaction can delay or possibly even prevent cognitive impairment. * Continue your career. While the idea of retiring pool side and watching the world go by might seem nice, such a scenario is not necessarily good for your brain. Numerous studies have shown the benefits that staying engaged in professional activities can have on brain health. The brain does not thrive if it’s sitting on the sideline.

Staying active in your career will continue to provide the challenges your brain needs to stay sharp and avoid memory loss and struggles with concentration.

Maple Crest and Northwoods Care Centres sponsor a monthly Memory Cafe. The purpose of the Memory Cafe is to provide knowledge, understanding and education about memory loss in a relaxed atmosphere. The meetings are held the third Tuesday of the month at the Steam Plant Restaurant, 123 Meadow St., Belvidere at 6:00 PM.

Understanding Diabetes: A Free Community Presentation November 30th, 7:00 AM At The Keen Age Center 2141 Henry Luckow Lane, Belvidere If you’re interested in understanding diabetes, you won’t want to miss this informative presentation from SwedishAmerican Endocrinologist Sravanthi Nagavalli, MD. She will discuss how to prepare for your doctor’s visits, complications of diabetes and more.

Light refreshments will be served. One lucky participant will win a prize. To register for this free presentation, please call the Keen Age Center at 815-544-9893.

203 Logan Ave., Belvidere

Family Owned & Operated Since 1906 Colin A. Jensen - Funeral Director

We Offer: • Tradition Services • Cremation Services • Pre-Planning Services

Why Pre-Plan? √ Peace Of Mind √ Personal Choice √ Lower Costs

To Schedule A Free Consultation, Please Call

815-544-2121 www.belviderefh.com

• Cremation Burials • Frank Lloyd Wright Pettit Chapel • Pre-Burial Arrangements

Cemetery Lots $800 - $850 Grave Openings $900 (Weekends Slightly More)

BCelvidere emetery Association

1121 N. Main Belvidere 815-547-7642

SHADLEY APARTMENTS 1151 NETTIE STREET, BELVIDERE • MANAGED BY LUDWIG AND COMPANY •

SECTION 8 AFFORDABLE HOUSING These conveniently located and newly rehabbed, one bedroom apartments in Belvidere are specially designed for seniors and people with disabilities. Shadley Apartments is customized to facilitate independent living in a fully equipped apartment among friends and neighbors who share similar interests.

Please contact Kelly Sumwalt (815) 547-5255 Property Manager for private showing.

ksumwalt@ludwigco.com fax: (815) 544-9568

Belvidere Family

YMCA

• For Youth Development • For Healthy Living • For Social Responsibility

815-547-5307

• Programs Recommended By Arthritis Foundation • Silver Sneakers • Gymnasium & Fitness Center With Trained Staff • Fitness Classes Free With Membership • 85 Degree Swimming Pool • Adult Lap & Open Times Throughout The Day • Discounted And Subsidized Memberships

220 West Locust, Belvidere, IL 61008 www.belviderefamilyymca.org

It doesn’t matter if you saved money in 15 minutes.

It doesn’t matter if your neighbor has the same insurance you do.

Two, convenient Boone County locations Belvidere Poplar Grove Physical Therapy Physical Therapy 1686 Henry Luckow Lane 1 -uOLe 'rLYe 815-547-4777 815-765-1155 2rWKoSeGLc 6SorWV ,nGuVWrLaO 5eKaELOLWaWLon &oPSOLPenWary LnMury VcreenV , oVWLSW coP

What matters right now is that you get to enjoy this moment - feeling completely at ease - because your independent insurance agent and the company that stands behind them has you covered.

Flanders Insurance Agency 1947 N. Lyford, Rockford flanders@flandersinsurance.com

815-226-1444

Page 11

November 3, 2016

DISPILL Medication Packaging System

We Offer A Worry-Free SelfMedication System To Prevent Your Loved One From Missing Medications Or Taking Too Much.

Filled Directly By Our Pharmacist, So There Are No Mistakes.

Your Co-Pay Is The Same Anywhere You Go. So Why Not Support Your Local Pharmacy?

BOONE COUNTY

SENIOR LIVING A MONTHLY FOUR PAGE SECTION FOR SENIORS

Seniors Can Benefit From Assisted Living

• Competitive Pricing • Personalized Patient Jessica James, Director of Marketing, Heritage Woods of Belvidere • We Accept All Major Insurance Consultations Many seniors find that the decision process regarding whether or not an assisted living facility is right for them, to & Medicaid/Medicare • Durable Medical Equipment be quite difficult. It is a hard position to be in to weigh the options of moving from a home filled with memories, to • User Friendly Packaging • Diabetic Shoes an assisted living community.

HOME HEALTH CARE DEPT. Support Stockings Braces/Splints Lift Chairs Bath Benches Wheelchairs Walkers Crutches & Canes Commodes Hospital Beds

WH O NEEDS A DRI V E-TH RU WH EN WE

DELIVER! Delivery Available 6 Days A Week Monday - Saturday

O’Brien’s Pharmacy 216 S. State St., Belvidere • 815-544-3433 Pharmacy Hours: Monday-Friday 9 am - 7 pm; Saturday 9 am - 4 pm; Sunday 9 am - 1 pm

24 HOUR NURSING CARE SHORT & LONG TERM CARE

A large part of the decision process is determining how assisted living can benefit you. There are many benefits of assisted living that can contribute to better mental and physical health as well as safety and peace of mind.

With staff on site 24/7, a resident will not have to fear being left alone without care. We have all heard stories about an elderly individual who has fallen at home and had to lie on the floor until a family member or other assistance arrives. Assisted living communities also provide housekeeping, laundry services, and 3 delicious meals a day, which lightens the burden of living independently a great deal. Instead of worrying about how to maintain household chores, an assisted living resident can focus on enjoying their elder years to their utmost ability. Daily social activities are also provided to ensure residents get the social stimulation that they desire. All too often, a senior living at home independently cannot get out of the home frequently, due to mobility issues or incontinence. This often leads to feelings of isolation and sadness. Many groups are typically available for residents to join so they can maintain their hobbies and favorite past time activities. Assisted living residents also are able to maintain their privacy with private apartments equipped with amenities similar to home and individual bathrooms.

The importance of taking prescribed medication is immeasurable. It is also very confusing and intimidating for an elderly individual to manage a handful of medications alone. Assisted living communities typically offer medication set ups and reminders to help alleviate the stress of the maintenance of medication. Transportation assistance is also offered to residents so they can continue to see their regular physicians and maintain independence with shopping trips and social outings.

Assisted living communities offer so many great benefits to seniors. However, for a number of reasons, some individuals wait too long to move to assisted living communities and by the time a move is an absolute necessity, they are beyond the care level that assisted living can offer, and end up having to move to a skilled nursing facility.

Assisted living is truly a higher quality of life for the individuals that choose to make the decision to move. If you or a loved one have questions about whether or not a move is right for you, reach out to an assisted living community near you and get more information.

Prepare Vehicles For Harsh Weather

1701 West 5th Avenue, Belvidere, IL 61008 www.parkplaceofbelvidere.com P 815.547.5451 F 815.544.4059

Enjoy The Life You Deserve!

Assisted Lifestyle Communities For Seniors Of All Incomes

815-544-9495 4730 Squaw Prairie Rd., Belvidere

As the seasons change, motorists must take steps to safeguard their vehicles. Each winter, many vehicles are subjected to sub-zero temperatures, snowfall and icy roads, and such conditions can take their toll on vehicles over time. Taking steps to prepare vehicles for winter weather is a vital step that can make cars and trucks safer.

Battery - Old batteries should be replaced before winter begins. Without a strong, properly functioning battery, engines cannot turn over. Most batteries last between three and five years. However, extreme cold can compromise batteries. Batteries are made up of acid and water, and cold temperatures can freeze the water, thereby affecting battery performance. According to AAA’s Automotive Research Center, at 32 F, the average battery loses 35 percent of its strength. Newer batteries can be protected by starting the vehicle each day to warm up and recharge the battery. Let the car run for at least 10 minutes if you cannot take an extended drive.

Exterior maintenance - Keeping a car waxed and sealed can help maintain a durable exterior finish. This includes not only the paint, but the rubber and vinyl parts of the car’s exterior. Winter is a good time to switch to a heavyduty synthetic wax that can shield against water and road salts. High-quality sealants can be used on bumpers, trim and rubber door seals as added protection. Speak with an automotive retailer or even the car dealership if you are unsure which products will make your car’s parts most durable for winter weather. Do not stop washing your car just because the weather is cold. Slushy, wet roads and snow-melting salts can speed up the formation of rust or other decay on the undercarriage of the vehicle.

Tire pressure - Vehicle tires lose a pound of air pressure for every 10-degree drop in temperature. Many modern cars will alert to changes in air pressure, and drivers should be diligent in maintaining the proper tire pressure.

Fuel economy as well as handling ability can decline when tires are not inflated properly.

Wipers - Visibility is key in hazardous weather conditions, and keeping the windshield clean is a priority. This means ensuring there is enough windshield wiper fluid in the car and that it is a product that will not freeze. Wiper blades can freeze and crack in the winter. It’s a worthy investment to replace existing wiper blades at the start of each winter. When parked, pull the wipers off of the windshield to safeguard them from sticking and cracking.

Cold weather requires drivers to amp up their vehicle maintenance routines. Consult with a mechanic or automotive retailer for more ideas and products that can help your vehicles operate safely this winter.

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To discuss your individual options, contact Alpine Trust & Investment Group, today.

Investment and insurance products are: not products of Alpine Bank; not FDIC insured; not guaranteed; and, may be subject to investment risk, including possible loss of principal.

Phone: (815) 231-2710 Fax: (815) 231-2825 www.bankalpine.com/investments

Page 12

November 3, 2016

HAVE YOU HEARD?

BOONE COUNTY

SENIOR LIVING A MONTHLY FOUR PAGE SECTION FOR SENIORS

Choose Lighter Fare This Thanksgiving Statistics indicate the average Thanksgiving dinner exceeds 3,000 calories.

That is more calories than a person should eat in an entire day, much less a single meal. Many people admit to indulging on bigger portions and more fattening foods come the holiday season, but choosing some lighter fare this Thanksgiving can make the meal healthier without sacrificing taste.

Many low-calorie foods can be included to make the meal healthier. The following are a few healthy substitutions or alterations holiday hosts can make when preparing their Thanksgiving feasts.

• Trim down the turkey. Play up the main course with aromatic seasonings or unexpected flavors. Use garlic, olive oil and basil to add a boost of flavor to turkey without having to rely on butter or salt. Marinate the bird with lemon juice and citrus marmalade for a sweet, yet pungent flavor.

• Opt for turkey breast. White meat of a turkey tends to have less fat and calories than the darker cuts. Serve turkey breasts only, which will not only cut down on calories, but also on the amount of time needed to cook.

• Make homemade cranberry sauce. Taking the time to make your own cranberry sauce means you can control the ingredients. Cut down on the amount of sugar used in the recipe or substitute it with honey or molasses.

• Reduce the number of courses. Extra courses can be expensive, but such massive spreads also lead many people to overeat. Stick to two or three courses, and chances are guests will not miss the extra food.

• Choose whole-grain breads. Sliced whole-grain breads or rolls paired with an olive tapenade will be flavorful and such breads are healthier than white bread and butter.

• Flavor vegetables with herbs. Vegetables grilled or sautéed with fresh herbs may be so flavorful they will not need added dressings that tend to be rich or cream or butter-based.

• Serve only low- or no-calorie drinks. Beverages add a substantial amount of calories to Thanksgiving meals.

• Serve fresh fruit for dessert. Create a fresh fruit salad that can be served in lieu of fatty cakes & pastries.

• Include activities: Plan activities, such as a game of football in the yard or a walk around the neighborhood.

This places a smaller emphasis on eating while giving guests the opportunity to burn off some of their meal.

30% SENIOR DISCOUNT FRAMES & LENSES (Includes designer frames & progressive bifocals)

Dr. Eric Coy Dr. Sarah Gregg Dr. Norbert Kulpinski

Inside Schnucks (E. State) 815-397-2020

304 North State - Belvidere 815-544-3431 FamilyOpticalCentre.com

Call us if you need a ride!

(Immediate Belvidere area only)

Complete Service Of Cars & Light Trucks

We Carry

See Our “Pros” For

• Brakes & Suspension • Wheel Alignment • Shocks & Struts • Air Conditioning

• New Tires • Roadside Tire Service • Small Engine Sales & Service

R. J. Daniels Fuel & Tire Fairgrounds Rd., Belvidere, IL 815-544-2118 8094Open Daily 7-5; Sat. 7-Noon

This Month’s Healthy Recipe Nutrition Facts Turkey & Potato Skillet Servings Per Recipe: Recipe Provided By The U of I Extension Office

Ingredients

11 One Cup Servings

• 1 pound lean ground turkey • 1 medium onion, thinly sliced • 2 medium or 1 large potato, about 1-1/2 pounds thinly sliced

• 1 can (15.5 ounces) sloppy joe sauce • 2 tablespoons water

Directions 1. Crumble turkey into a non-stick skillet. Layer onions & potatoes. Cover with sloppy joe sauce.

2. Cover & cook on medium heat 15-20 minutes, until meat is browned. With a rubber spatula, divide the mixture into sections that can be turned so the potatoes are on the bottom & the turkey on top.

3. Cover & cook an additional 15-20 minutes until potatoes are tender. Add water as needed to prevent sticking.

Amount Per Serving: Calories 271 Calories From Fat 63 Total Fat 7 g Cholesterol 64 mg Sodium 557 mg Carbohydrates 31 g Dietary Fiber 3 g Protein 22 g

Safety First When Stringing Holiday Lights Holiday decorations help make a special time of year even more memorable but safety must be a priority when decorating a home for the holidays. Accidents can happen no matter what type of holiday decorating you’re doing, but stringing holiday lights around your home may be especially dangerous. This season, keep the following safety tips in mind when stringing lights so this season of celebration starts off safe and sound.

• Work with at least one partner. Never go it alone when stringing holiday lights. Make sure someone is there to hold the ladder steady as you climb up and down. Partnering up when stringing holiday lights allows decorators to use both of their hands to climb up ladders instead of using one of their hands to carry lights • Inspect lights and wires before hanging them, replacing any that pose a hazard. When replacing bulbs, be sure to replace them with bulbs of equal wattage.

• Use an extension cord of adequate length. Exterior holiday lights are often plugged into extension cords that extend to a shed or garage. Do not connect several extension cords to power holiday lights; instead, use just a single cord that’s lengthy enough to reach the outlet. Connecting extension cords is a fire hazard.

• Make sure lights do not pose a safety hazard inside. Some people string holiday lights indoors as well. Staple lights to the wall and never place them beneath furniture or rugs. Lights can overheat when placed under rugs.

• Hang the correct lights. When stringing lights, make sure you hang lights designated as exterior lights on the exterior of your home and those designated as interior lights inside your home.

207 S. State St Belvidere, IL 61008-3616 taftinsurance@hotmail.com

SHARE YOUR GOOD HEALTH

with Others.

BE A BLOOD DONOR.

(877) RRVBC-99 (877-778-2299) rrvbc.org

Our Family Is Here For Yours.

Barr’s Flowers 119 S. State St. 815-544-3141 Belvidere’s Only Complete Florist Seasonal Giftware, Purses & Scarves, Greeting Cards, Truffles & More!

Family Owned & Operated

218 W. Hurlbut Ave., Belvidere

815-544-2616

www.AndersonFCS.com

Our mission is to celebrate one’s life and help families navigate the journey of loss with a sense of hope. One of the most painful events we experience in life is the loss of a loved one. At Anderson Funeral and Cremation Services, we believe that finding an appropriate and meaningful way to celebrate your loved one’s life while giving thanks to God for their life is the necessary foundation to healing. - Stephen Anderson

Same Day Delivery Available Monday-Saturday! www.barrsflowers.com Proud member of the teleflora network ©