Boone County Senior Living

Page 9

December 6, 2018

December

1701 5th Avenue, Belvidere, IL 61008

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

Expertise & Experience • Burials • Cremation Columbarium • Pre-Burial Arrangements • Monument Markers & Memorials Cemetery Lots $850-$900 Columbarium Double Niche $2500 Grave Openings $950 (Weekends Slightly More)

(Includes Engraving)

BCelvidere emetery Association

Frank Lloyd Wright Pettit Chapel 1121 N. Main, Belvidere 815-547-7642 Medicare & Most Insurance ACCEPTED

THE RIGHT CARE, RIGHT AT H ME • • • •

SLEEP THERAPY HOME OXYGEN MOBILITY POWER CHAIRS

• • • •

SCOOTERS RAMPS STAIR LIFTS BATH SAFETY

Locally Owned & Operated Since 1988 5027 Harrison Ave. Rockford, IL

2020 Sutler Ave. Beloit, WI

815-965-9454 608-313-0800 M-F 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM • integratedhc.com

BOONE COUNTY

SENIOR LIVING A MONTHLY FOUR PAGE SECTION FOR SENIORS

What Your Family Really Wants For Christmas Contributed by Maria Kresal, Director Of Marketing For Heritage Woods Of Belvidere

Peace on Earth - Goodwill toward men are the traditional wishes for Christmas. In today’s world the wishes are for the latest & greatest tech & gadgets or that new hot toy. With Black Friday, Doorbusters, one day sales, crowds, & the credit card debt, makes even the thought of shopping for the Holidays stressful.

Don’t fall into the trap. How do you do that you ask? Here is my advice! Pause for a moment & think of one gift you gave someone last year for Christmas, can you even remember? Do they even remember? How important are the gifts? Kids love opening a pile of presents, & when they are done they are looking for more. When your kids are young that is the time to have a pile of presents under the tree. I’m not promoting a Grinch outlook on the whole gift giving of the season, but rather asking the question, what does your family really want for Christmas?

My family tells me I’m hard to shop for, I am a practical person. As the years pass the material things are less important to me, that may be why people find it harder to shop for me. The gift I want cannot be found in stores.

My annual wish list always includes suggestions for things we can do together, like plan a lunch date with me, come by & have a coffee with me, join me for a movie. Maybe instead of buying a physical gift, I want the gift of your time. The trick with this is you have to follow through. Nothing is worse than getting an empty promise. Possibly buy a gift card to a restaurant, but attach a note that says “for lunch for you & me” that time spent together will be a precious gift to cherish.

My grandmother was a wonderful cook & while she hosted many big family occasions, nothing made me feel as special as when she invited me to a meal just for me. It didn’t need to be anything fancy. As she aged & had less & less to spend on the holidays she started to give us things that meant something to her during her life. Those are things I cherish. I loved them because they were hers, but the memory of the moment when she explained what they meant to her was the greatest part of the gift. These will be a legacy to pass to my children.

If you feel you need to give a physical gift, think outside the box. We older folks have boxes of photos, make notes on the backs: When it was, who’s in the picture, the date. You can present those in an album or lose. Not only will it be a special time to share when you present the gift, but it will be a gift they can treasure in the future.

Another way to reduce the stress of the holidays is to put other’s needs first, think outside of yourself. The season of giving is not just of presents but rather your presence. At Heritage Woods we welcome you to stop in for one of our public events all year round. You can also check with us or other area senior housing communities for volunteer opportunities, getting involved individually or as a family is one of the best rewards you can give someone else & yourself.

Ultimately your family wants you, so don’t stress over the shopping, instead enjoy the time you have with your loved ones.

Create memories that will last.

Keen Age Center Annual Christmas Party The Keen Age Center will hose their Annual Christmas Party on Friday, December 14th, 10 AM - 1 PM. The party is sponsored by Heritage Woods of Belvidere and includes an Ugly Christmas Sweater Contest, Door Prizes, Food, Music and a Performance by the Reader’s Theater. There will also be a craft sale in the activity room. Tickets are on sale now and are $2. You must sign up in advance as seating is limited. Call 815-544-9893 or stop in at 2141 Henry Luckow Lane, Belvidere. You must get your ticket(s) before you can get on the sign up sheet.

Her first car.

Their college savings fund.

Your retirement.

Life moves fast.

We’ll be there every step of the way.

Member FDIC

1-855-696-4352 | midlandsb.com

Page 10

December 6, 2018

BOONE COUNTY

SENIOR LIVING

WHAT’S YOUR NEXT STEP?

When When your your housing housing needs needs change, change, let let me me help help you you through through the the process. process. Over Over 31 31 years years experience. experience.

A MONTHLY FOUR PAGE SECTION FOR SENIORS

Jane Eurek 815-988-7596

Remembering Pearl Harbor

Managing Broker, SRES janeeurek@dickersonnieman.com

®

December 7, 2018, marks the 77th anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor. This was a pivotal day in world history, ultimately leading the United States to enter the Second World War. Prior to the attack on Pearl Harbor, Japan participated in a series of invasions into China, believing the only way to solve its economic & demographic problems was to expand into China & take over its import market. This attitude helped create rising tension with the United States, & American officials ultimately responded with economic sanctions & trade embargoes. Although it seemed war was inevitable, the Japanese preempted the American military with a surprise attack targeting Pearl Harbor, which is 2,000 miles from the U.S. mainland & 4,000 miles from Japan.

Pearl Harbor is a U.S. naval base located near Honolulu, HI. On a Sunday morning on December 7, 1941, just before 8 AM. local time, Japanese fighter planes descended on the base in a surprise attack. Five additional attacks followed throughout the day. The Japanese managed to destroy nearly 20 American naval vessels, which included eight battleships & more than 300 airplanes. While the military equipment could ultimately be replaced, the more than 2,400 military personnel & civilians who died paid the ultimate price.

It is believed the United States was especially surprised by the attack, as American military leaders felt, if an attack were to take place, it would come from the sea rather than the air. In addition, American intelligence officials were confident that any Japanese attack would take place in one of the European colonies in the South Pacific, such as Singapore or Indochina, which are closer to Japan than Hawaii.

Despite devastating Pearl Harbor, all hopes were not lost that day, & the Japanese could not cripple America’s Pacific Fleet. Aircraft carriers were not docked at the base, & the key onshore oil storage, shipyards, repair shops, & docks were left largely intact. From a functional standpoint, the U.S. Navy was able to quickly rebound.

However, even 77 years later, the residual emotional effects of the attack continue, particularly among WWII veterans, as well as the family members of those who perished.

Improve Crossword-Solving Skills Crossword puzzles are an integral component of newspapers. In addition to their entertainment quality, crossword puzzles can help improve cognition & brain health in individuals of all ages. The first known crossword puzzle to be published was created by a British journalist named Arthur Wynne, who is often credited as the inventor of crosswords. The first puzzle appeared in the New York World on December 21, 1913. The original crossword was diamond-shaped & did not feature the familiar black squares.

Throughout the 1920s, crossword puzzles became a standard offering in many newspapers. During this period, puzzle shapes evolved to the more familiar form, & certain puzzle standards were established. Puzzles now appearing in most North American newspapers & magazines feature solid areas of white squares. Each letter is usually part of both an “across” word & a “down” word, & usually each answer must contain at least three letters.

In these puzzles, shaded squares are typically limited to about one-sixth of the total.

It is estimated that around 50 million people in America routinely partake in crossword puzzles. Each year, one best-of-the-best is crowned in the American Crossword Puzzle Tournament. Everyone wants to improve his or her crossword-puzzling skills. These tips can help.

• Practice makes perfect. Start with simple puzzles & work up to the more difficult ones.

• Divide & conquer. Divide the puzzle into smaller sections & complete each cluster before moving on.

It’s easier than completing all of the across or down clues.

• Watch “Jeopardy.” Puzzles used to be comprised largely of definitions, but they now incorporate just about every subject. Improving general knowledge & perhaps watching trivia shows can help with puzzle completion.

• Learn repeat offenders. Over time you may recognize certain words appear in puzzle after puzzle.

1253 1253 Logan Logan Ave., Ave., Belvidere Belvidere dickersonnieman.com dickersonnieman.com

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

John H. Maville Attorney At Law 815-544-3165 www.mavillelaw.com Suite 307, 600 S. State, Belvidere 1444 N. State St. Belvidere, IL 815-323-1840 Your Trusted Family Jeweler Since 1921

Offers The Following In-Store Services: • Free Jewelry Cleaning & Diamond Inspection • Expert Jewelry Repair • Watch Battery Installation • Jewelry Appraisals • Lifetime Trade-Up on Your Diamond Jewelry • Buying Gold, Silver & Pre-Owned Jewelry

www.lueckejewelers.com

Power Recliner And Lift Chairs By We Also Carry Lift Chairs By Ultra Comfort & Best Craft

• Familiarize yourself with multiple word meanings. Think like a puzzle creator, who is probably trying to stump you. The word “flower” may not imply the blooming plant. It may represent something that “flows.”

• Take a break. Taking a few moments to step away from the puzzle before returning to it can clear the mind.

Crossword puzzles are a popular component of newspapers. They’re fun to fill out & boast a rich history. The Ida Public Library at 320 N. State Street, Belvidere will be celebrating National Crossword Puzzle Day December 14th - 21st. The library will be hosting a crossword puzzle competition! Pick up your crossword puzzle at one of the service desks beginning December 14th and return it by 8 PM on December 21st for your chance to be entered into a small drawing. For more information call 815-544-3838.

FURNITURE

315 S. State St. • Belvidere • 815-547-6672 HOURS: Mon. & Fri. 9-7; Tues.-Thurs. 9-5; Sat. 9-4; Closed Sun.

Our Family Is Here For Yours.

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. 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

218 W. Hurlbut Ave. Belvidere 815-544-2616 www.AndersonFCS.com

Whether you call it a funeral service, memorial service, or commemoration service. Whether you choose burial or cremation, whether your budget is large or small. Whether you invite friends and community, or journey simply with your closest family members. We will help you design a unique and special ceremony.

Page 11

December 6, 2018

BOONE COUNTY

SENIOR LIVING A MONTHLY FOUR PAGE SECTION FOR SENIORS

Pros & Cons To Early Retirement A lifetime of working compels many people to look forward to their retirement. Some people even work to retire early. But what are the advantages of early retirement beyond starting a life of leisure? Are there any detriments to this plan?

4730 Squaw Prairie Rd., Belvidere

815-544-9495 An Affordable Assisted Lifestyle Community for the Older Adult

www.hw-belvidere-slf.com

A 2014 survey by the financial services provider TIAA-CREF found that 37% of Americans plan to retire before age 65. However, many of them will not have control over the matter. Those who do may want to consider the pros & cons of early retirement.

Managed by Gardant Management Solutions

SHARE THE

Advantages: Many people seek early retirement so that they can live a life free of the constraints of schedules. In retirement, time becomes, more or less, a retiree’s own. Leaving a job can be a boon to a person’s health as well. Relieving oneself of the pressures & stresses of professional life can free up the mind & body. Stress can affect mental & physical health, taxing the heart & contributing to conditions such as depression or anxiety. According to the Mayo Clinic, stress can cause headache, muscle & chest pain & contribute to trouble sleeping. The earlier the retirement, the more opportunity to travel before health issues begin to limit mobility. Early retirement also can be a way to volunteer more or even start a new job opportunity - one where workers have greater control over their schedules & careers.

BUCHANAN STREET PUB

111 BUCHANAN ST., BELVIDERE 815-547-1012

Disadvantages: One of the disadvantages of early retirement is a loss of income. Contributions to retirement accounts also ceases at retirement. This can lead to financial setbacks if adequate savings were not allocated for retirement. According to the resource Wealth How, some people who retire early fear outliving their savings. While retiring early may be good for health, it also can have negative consequences. An analysis from the National Bureau of Economic Research found that retirement can lead to declines in mental health & mobility as well as feelings of isolation. Retiring early may jump start these health implications. Another consideration is that health insurance provided by an employer typically ends at retirement. That means having to pay out of pocket until a person ages into government-subsidized healthcare, such as Medicare in the United States, at age 65.

SUN-TUES 11 AM-2 AM WED-THURS 7 AM-2 AM FRI-SAT 6 AM-2 AM

SLOTS ARE IN THE HOUSE

Retiring early is a complex issue that requires weighing the pros & cons.

Safety Measures For Winter Drivers Winter weather causes many people to retreat indoors until the spring thaw. However, for those who embrace the cooler temperatures or find that life must go on despite snow & ice, taking inventory of their vehicles is a must.

Don’t Think About The End At The End.

Tire care is an especially important area of vehicle maintenance. The tire experts at Michelin say that regular tires may be ineffective for winter driving. Summer tires are made from materials that are optimized for warm conditions. When the mercury drops, these same materials can harden, reducing their ability to grip the road. That lack of traction can be compounded by the presence of snow or ice. Even all-season tires, which are designed to be driven year-round, can be insufficient in severe weather conditions. Winter tires can help drivers safely navigate winter roadways.

495

Bridgestone Tires says that having the right snow tires matters when driving in winter weather conditions. It’s important to look for tires that can disperse water sufficiently & also grip the road. Snow tires are designed to remain softer & more flexible to conform to the road better in cold conditions. Some winter tires are even studded to provide better traction.

TWO GROUND FOR PRE-NEED BURIAL SPACES JUST

$ $

Highland Garden Of Memories 9800 Route 76 • Belvidere • 815-544-2750

Unfortunately, even the best winter tires cannot provide perfect traction on slippery roadways. That is why it is essential - in conjunction with the use of winter tires or snow chains - to modify driving techniques to navigate safely.

Complete Service Of Cars & Light Trucks

• Drive slowly. Allow a greater distance for stopping than for dry conditions. Slippery conditions can make it more challenging to stop, & excessive speeds can make the situation worse.

• Shift into low gear. On hills, rely on low gears to maximize traction to travel up & down hills.

• Get the vehicle a tuneup. In addition to tires, be sure the braking system, battery & other major components of the vehicle are in good working order.

• Replace windshield wipers. Reduced visibility can compromise the safety of drivers & their passengers. Replace windshield wiper blades before winter arrives. Consider purchasing winter-rated windshield blades.

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

• Know how to recover from a skid. When skids occur on black ice or slush, drivers should take their foot off of the pedal & steer gently in the direction they want to go. As the vehicle regains traction, only then should the brakes or accelerator be applied.

Winter weather requires making some vehicle modifications, & drivers may want to alter the way they drive to be more safe on the road. You may want to consider the AARP Smart Drivers Two-Day Course held at the Keen Age Center January 24th & 25th from 8:30 AM - 12:30 PM. The course fee is $20 for non-AARP Members & $15 for AARP Members. You must pre-register by calling the Keen Age Center at 815-544-9893.

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 12

December 6, 2018

DISPILL Medication Packaging System

BOONE COUNTY

SENIOR LIVING A MONTHLY FOUR PAGE SECTION FOR SENIORS

Natural Christmas Holiday Decor Contributed by Debbie Barr, Owner, Barr’s Flowers, Belvidere

Christmas decor, like most other home decor, has been very influenced by the new natural, organic look that seems to be sweeping the country. Although Christmas will always be about the glitz & glam the natural elements have become very popular. This movement is largely because of the popularity of shows like “Fixer Upper” & other DIY Shows seen on networks like HGTV. Farmhouse chic has become a look that is both rustic & classic.

One of the easiest places to bring in the natural organic look to your holiday decor is on your holiday table. Dressing up your table with a lush evergreen garland or fresh evergreen centerpiece is the perfect way to add the beauty & wonderful fragrance of the season. Fresh evergreens are long lasting & give the natural rustic look that is so popular today. Adding votive candles or taper candles to the table always gives it a classic holiday feel. Sprigs of fresh holly & berries also can be added for texture & visual interest. Trends today show people increasingly using natural elements. Even fresh fruit & vegetables have become an integral part of decorating tables capes. The traditional red & green colors have also given way to more neutral colors like taupe, gray & ivory. Although these may not seems like the traditional Christmas colors they are very beautiful with the new natural look.

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?

• Competitive Pricing • Personalized Patient • We Accept All Major Insurance Consultations • Durable Medical Equipment & Medicaid/Medicare • Diabetic Shoes • User Friendly Packaging HOME HEALTH CARE DEPT. Support Stockings Braces/Splints Lift Chairs Bath Benches Wheelchairs Walkers Crutches & Canes Commodes Hospital Beds

Baby’s Breath has also made a huge comeback. People seem to love the simple elegance it brings to a table. Fresh evergreens & Baby’s Breath give a classic natural look that seems to be popular in home decor & wedding work alike. Baby’s Breath can give a light elegant look to any Christmas tree, fresh bundles can be inserted to either a fresh tree or artificial tree. The Baby’s Breath dries in the tree & stays looking nice for the entire season. Again it adds a natural, organic, rustic feel to the tree.

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

Natural greens are a fun way to even accent your presents & can be used to finish off the prefect present instead of the traditional bow. Fresh evergreens & other natural elements can instantly transform a mantle into a beautiful showpiece.

Working in pine cones, seeded eucalyptus & other greenery gives the mantle a lush, full look. Twinkle lights can be easily added to give a holiday glow.

Monday - Saturday

The natural, organic, rustic look seems to be one that is here to stay for a while, so this year try to work in some natural elements into your holiday decor to give it a fresh new updated look. Need inspiration? Stop by Barr’s Flowers for their Annual Holiday Open House, Friday, December 7th, 8 AM - 8 PM or Saturday, December 8th, 8 AM - Noon. Barr’s Flowers is located in Downtown Belvidere at 119 S. State Street. For more information call 815-544-3141.

This Month’s Healthy Recipe WINTER CRISP Ingredients Filling: 1/2 cup sugar 3 T. flour 1 t. grated lemon peel (optional) 5 cups apples*, sliced & unpeeled 1 cup cranberries or raisins

Recipe Provided By The U of I Extension Office

Ingredients Topping: 2/3 cup rolled oats 1/3 cup packed brown sugar 1/4 cup whole wheat flour 2 t. cinnamon 3 T. butter, melted

Directions 1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. 2. In a medium bowl, combine sugar, flour & lemon peel. Mix well.

3. Add apples & raisins/cranberries to bowl & stir to combine 4. Spoon into a 6 cup baking dish.

5. In separate small bowl, combine oats, brown sugar, flour & cinnamon. Add melted butter. Stir to mix.

6. Sprinkle topping over fruit filling. Bake in oven for 40-50 minutes or until filling is bubbly & top is browned. *For best results use a baking variety of apple like McIntosh, Granny Smith, Jonagold, or Braeburn.

Nutrition Facts Servings Per Recipe: 6 Servings Amount Per Serving: Calories 350 Total Fat 7 g Sodium 10 mg Carbohydrates 74 g Fiber 5 g Protein 3 g

DELIVER! Delivery Available 6 Days A Week

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

Belvidere Family

YMCA

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

815-547-5307

• Programs Recommended By Arthritis Foundation • Silver Sneakers & Enhance Fitness • 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

Be Comfortable In Your Home!

Prairie Fields & Doty Park Memorial Benches The Belvidere Park District has created an opportunity for its citizens to honor & recognize family members & friends through a memorial bench program at Prairie Fields & Doty Park. The benches are available for purchase & can be placed at various approved locations within Prairie Fields & Doty park. For complete information contact the Belvidere Park District at 815-547-5711.

• 24/7 Emergency Service • Service & Installation Of All Makes & Models • Free Estimates On New Equipment Installations • Clean & Check Specials • Air Duct Cleaning • Financing Available • Utility Rebates • Seasonal Specials • 10% SENIOR DISCOUNT

Serving Boone, Winnebago & Surrounding Counties

Holiday Safety Tips From The Belvidere Fire Dept.

When using a traditional tree - keep your tree in water at all times & away from your fireplace, radiator & heater. Check your tree lights - repair or throw away lights with frayed or exposed wires. Turn off all the lights when you leave home or go to bed. Have a reliable fire extinguisher in your home - know where it is & how to use it. Only use indoor, UL® approved lights on your tree miniature lights which have cool-burning bulbs are safest. Never use more than three light sets on one extension cord - extension cords should be placed against walls to avoid tripping hazards, but never under rugs. Avoid placing small or breakable ornaments on lower tree branches where small children or pets can reach them.

815-298-8020 www.allenheatcool.com

The care patients have come to choose and trust.

Two, convenient Boone County locations Belvidere Physical Therapy 1686 Henry Luckow Lane 815-547-4777 Orthopedic and Sports

Poplar Grove Physical Therapy 13524 Julie Drive 815-765-1155

Therapy Institute

Orthopedic • Sports • Industrial Rehabilitation Complimentary injury screens I ostipt.com

Veterans Assistance Commission Of Boone County The Veterans’ Assistance Commission provides needed services exclusively to Boone County Honorably Discharged Military Veterans & their families. We work with local Veterans’ Service Organizations as well as local, state & federal agencies, to ensure your rights.

Services include: Interim and/or emergency veterans’ (financial) assistance, emotional support services, administrative case work, transition center services & VA medical-related transportation services.

Please Call For An Appt. 815-544-6464 130 S. State St., Suite 212, Belvidere www.VACBC.org Email: VACBoone@VACBC.org