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October 2012 A Special Supplement to the Daily Home

2 — THE DAILY HOME, Talladega and St. Clair counties, Ala., Wednesday, October 17, 2012

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‘Aging in place’ Sunrise on Circle’s mission

By WILL HEATH Home staff writer

Will Heath/The Daily Home

Sunrise on the Circle is located at 220 Kings Circle, off 19th Street in Pell City. The facility opened in May 2010.

“They won’t want to

leave the facility and

they don’t think anything

measures up.”

of the deceased person’s assets, it does not necessarily mean the deceased’s wishes will be honored.

To ensure their wishes are honored, a person

must have a will in place.

Otherwise, the formula will be used to distribute assets.

belief, children do not have to be born from legal

marriage to share in the distribution of assets.

Did you know?

Men and women who die without a will do not automatically have their assets seized by the government. When men and women die without a will, they leave what is known as intestacy.

The only time a deceased person’s assets end up with the government is when the deceased has no living next of kin. Should a man or woman with living family or dependents perish without a will, a formula is used to distribute the deceased’s assets. While this formula ensures family or dependents get some

See Sunrise, Page 3

Contrary to popular

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Gayle Sexton said the mission of Sunrise on the Circle in Pell City is simple: to allow people to “age in place.”

In the two years since it opened in May 2012, Sexton said she has seen a great need for a community like hers, which explains why she is currently applying to Alabama’s Certificate of Need Review Board for a Specialty Care Assisted Living Facility license for Sunrise on the Circle.

“We’ve seen a lot of residents come and go for various reasons,” she said. “We have seen a great appreciation for our type of facility and the amenities we have here.”

Currently, Sunrise has a license as an assisted living facility, meaning that residents requiring “a certain level of care” must look elsewhere.

“The families are usually unhappy when we have to discharge a resident,” Sexton said.

Sexton said that 15 beds are available for SCALF designation, and she has applied for all 15.

“And I have three to four people on a waiting list right now, if we receive approval,” she said. “They’re at home but their families will not send them to another facility.”

Sexton said she has been able to watch the day-to-day lives of many of her 16 residents, including couples like Ken and Erstene Barber, who Sexton called “joyful additions” to the community there.

“He (Ken) sings to her every morning,” she said. “He doesn’t make a move without her. He always makes sure her chair is pulled out, and he doesn’t eat until she gets there.

“It’s nice to be able to take care of nice people.

Our seniors appreciate the fact that this is a beautiful place to live.”

Sexton said the residents at the facility, located at 220 Kings Circle in Pell City, off 19th Street, take part in exercises for the body

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THE DAILY HOME, Talladega and St. Clair counties, Ala., Wednesday, October 17, 2012 — 3

After retirement?

Will Heath/The Daily Home

Ken and Erstene Barber, a married couple from Pell City, are part of the family at Sunrise on the Circle.

Sunrise From Page 2

Sexton also said that she is prepared to renovate a portion of her facility to accommodate the population.

“We’re ready to make renovations,” she said.

“It will require us to employ increased staff

and licensed nurses.”

Contact Will Heath at wheath@thestclairtimes. com.

Elect

LYNN

ment. You may discover a new interest that becomes a passion. Now that you have time to explore new hobbies, they might prove more rewarding.

• Meet with people.

Part of what makes work fulfilling is the opportunity to get out of the house and interact with others who are not members of your family. It’s easy to fall into a rut when you are not being mentally stimulated by conversation from different people.

• Realize it’s all right not to love retirement. Just because the grass seemed greener in someone else’s yard, doesn’t mean it always turns out to be that way. It is OK to accept that retirement isn’t what you expected and to make changes that can enable the experience to be better.

Elect

SWINFORD CIRCUIT CLERK ★ ★ ★

now that a commute to work isn’t part of the daily schedule.

• Donate time or money.

Giving back to others, whether to the community or to a charitable organization, can feel good and give retirees some structure.

Volunteering your time at a place can give life some sort of purpose outside of a job.

• Start a home-based business.Just because you retire doesn’t mean you have to fully retire. Now may be the opportunity to start a business venture you have always dreamed about, whether that is something hands-on or just serving as a consultant.

• Try new things. Part of goal-setting is to add things to the list you’ve never done before, which can boost feelings of excite-

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and the mind. The “mind exercises” include games such as “Top 10,” including one in which residents debated which states are the top 10 agriculture producing states.

They also have transportation provided for various purposes.

“Yesterday we took three residents to Talladega to their houses,” she said. “We take them to see their memories — their houses, their grandchildren. We try to make every minute count.”

That is why, according to Sexton, the SCALF license is so important to the long-term future of the facility and its resi-

dents.

“When residents need nursing care or dementia, their level of need increases to a higher level,” she said.

“We’re not licensed to keep them here, so we’re forced to transfer them elsewhere.

“It’s devastating to the residents and their families. When we get (the SCALF license), we can allow our Alzheimer’s patients to live here.”

Scores of people spend their working days dreaming of the moment they are eligible for retirement.

They may have retirement counted down to the minutes and seconds, particularly if they’ve been in a job that hasn’t been the most enjoyable. But many people find that once they retire they do not know what to do to fill their time.

Boredom actually may be a side effect of retirement, and some people actually want to go back to work.

Much of the focus when planning for retirement concerns finances. All other factors take a backseat.

Therefore, there may be emotional issues that arise during retirement, and retirees are not always prepared to deal with such issues.

Having a post-retirement plan in place can mean the difference between happiness and having a hard time adjusting, according to experts. Here are some tips that can help anyone ease into the golden years.

• Establish goals. After working for years, the idea of setting goals can seem counterintuitive. But goals can give life direction and have you looking forward to things in the future.

Goals also motivate retirees to get up in the morning

4 — THE DAILY HOME, Talladega and St. Clair counties, Ala., Wednesday, October 17, 2012

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All About You Home Care offers personalized assistance

By EMILY ADAMS Home staff writer

It’s all in the name for All About You Home Care in Sylacauga.

The non-medical care service provides personalized, in-home assistance with daily living activities. Caregivers develop a schedule tailored to clients’ needs, no matter how big or small the task.

“We cook, we clean, we take clients to doctor’s appointments, we help bills get paid — you name it,” said co-owner Neal Laye. “It’s really household management.

We’ve taken dogs to the vet; I’ve gone over and cut grass and hung lights.

We do anything a person would need that they can’t do themselves.”

Co-owned and operated by Laye and his wife, Tyler, the couple opened the business in 2010 with a mission of filling the gap left by other home health services.

“Where hospice will come for an hour at a time, we have 24/7 clients,” Laye said.

All About You, which can work in conjunction with hospice, is most often contacted by children who want to provide care for their elderly parents without making them leave home, Laye said.

“A lot of children have made promises to their parents they won’t put them in a nursing home, and they have resources to stay home, and that’s where we come in,” he said.

All About You clients

typically receive care until they pass away or progress to a nursing home or other facility, Laye said, but other care services are provided as well.

“We’ve actually had some people who have maybe had surgery and had nobody in town to help them at home, and we would care for them until they got back on their feet,” Laye said.

“On the other hand, we’ve had several who knew they were passing away, and they didn’t want to go to a retirement home, so we were there the whole time.”

Laye said staying at home is a great comfort for clients.

“If you have lived in the same house for 40 years, and you had to pack up and move into a 10x10 room, it’s a traumatic situation,” he said.

“Staying at home really does alleviate a lot of stress and strain that an older person would have if you just picked them up and moved them.”

Office manager Marie Livingston said their 25 caregivers, who are either Certified Nursing Assistants or have multiple years of experience in care giving, help clients keep the daily structure that many seniors desire.

“They may not have a work schedule to structure their lives around, but they structure their home life in the same way, down to the smallest things,” Livingston said.

“Our caregivers go in and fit into that schedule.”

Livingston said caregivers often receive a

harsh welcome, but clients eventually grow to love the companionship a caregiver provides.

“The ones who gripe the most about us coming are the ones who just love their caregivers now,” she said. “The caregiver really becomes part of the family, and that’s what we want.”

Laye said their service helps people rebuild their lives and maintain independence.

“A lot of our clients live alone, have lost a spouse, and it’s a comfort to know that person’s going to be there,” he said. “They’re going to

be a companion to them, first of all, and second, they’re going to take care of their household needs and personal needs.”

The company, which accepts private pay, long-term care insurance, veteran’s benefits and worker’s compensation, may open another branch in the future, Laye said, but no matter what, the hallmark of All About You will always be meeting a person’s individual needs.

“We don’t tell the client when we work,” Laye said. “They tell us when they want us to work, and that’s why the name All About You came about,

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All About You Home Care provides personalized, non-medical care for clients. Pictured are co-owner Neal Laye and office manager Marie Livingston.

because it really is all about them.”

For more information, contact All About You at

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Contact Emily Adams at eadams@dailyhome. com.

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THE DAILY HOME, Talladega and St. Clair counties, Ala., Wednesday, October 17, 2012 — 5

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Beware buying medications online The Internet has made it possible for consumers to buy just about anything without ever leaving their homes. Whether looking for a pizza or a car, consumers can find whatever they need with a few clicks of the mouse.

But buying merchandise online always comes with a degree of risk, and that’s especially so when buying medicine over the Internet. Not

all Web sites that sell medicine are trustworthy, and many physicians feel buying medicine online is never a viable option.

Recognizing the risk involved in such a transaction, the Food and Drug Administration offers the following advice to consumers consider purchasing medicines over the Internet.

Learn about medicines before ordering

Consumers should learn as much as possible about the medicines they plan to purchase before placing an order. Know what the medicine looks like, including its color, texture, shape, and packaging. If the medicine has a particular taste or smell, make note of that before taking any medication purchased over the Internet.

Know what you’re

buying Many Web sites that sell medicine are perfectly legal and trustworthy.

However, just as many, if not more, Web sites sell medicine that has not been checked or approved by the FDA. These drugs might contain the wrong active ingredient or too much or too little of the active ingredient, making them ineffective and possibly even deadly. These

faulty sites appear just as credible as their legitimate counterparts, but sell ineffective or dangerous drugs to consumers who don’t know what they’re getting in return.

In an effort to increase awareness among consumers purchasing medicine online, the FDA purchased and analyzed a host of products that were sold online as Tamiflu, which is used to treat some types

of influenza infection.

The active ingredient in Tamiflu is oseltamivir, but in one package purchased by the FDA online the drug they received as Tamiflu contained none of the active ingredient oseltamivir. Similar problems were reported by consumers who purchased Ambien, Xanax, Lexapro, and Ativan over the See Online, Page 6

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“WE ARE YOUR ALL IN ONE TREATMENT CENTER FOR ALL OF YOUR DENTAL NEEDS” Do bad teeth keep you from enjoying life to the fullest? Do you have missing teeth or painful dentures that don’t fit? It’s time to discover dental implants.

WHICH WOULD YOU RATHER HAVE? What are dental implants?

Dental implants are artificial tooth roots surgically placed in the jawbone. The jawbone heals and forms a strong bond with the implant. Once the new “root” is in place, it can be used to attach and support crowns, bridges and dentures.

What are the benefits of dental implants?

Implants are the newest and most permanent replacement for missing teeth. They allow you to speak, eat and smile with confidence. While helping to prevent progressive bone loss, implants preserve a more youthful facial appearance and minimize premature wrinkling. Implants maximize chewing efficiency, allowing you to eat a wider variety of foods.

How do implants compare to dentures?

Implants cause less gum irritation and pain than removable dentures or bridges. They don’t re-

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quire messy pastes, tablets or containers. They eliminate the embarrassment of removing your dentures.

New permanent teeth – A life changing experience “Providing dental implants helps people get a new lease on life. My patients can now enjoy eating out, reunions, picnics and anniversaries,” says Dr. Scott Koplon, D.M.D. “My patients have the ability to chew and speak like they used to.”

Why choose Dr. Koplon?

Dr. Koplon has extensive training and experience with all facets of dental implants. He is one of the select few dentists in the Birmingham area who performs all phases of treatments personally, our office is an all in one treatment center.

Dental implants are more affordable than ever Dental implants should be considered an investment in your future health and happiness.

Dr. Koplon has many programs available to help patients finance the necessary work. Once approved, patients simply make low monthly payments.

Take a few minutes right now Call the office of Dr. Koplon today at 205699-2551 to see if you qualify. Call us today to schedule your complimentary initial consultation. This opportunity could be the solution to your dental problems.

6 — THE DAILY HOME, Talladega and St. Clair counties, Ala., Wednesday, October 17, 2012

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Dr. Tropeano prepared to treat older adults bone degeneration and arthritis,” Tropeano said.

“In some cases, an MRI is required to be more precise,” she said.

If someone comes in saying they’ve stepped in a hole, Tropeano said they look first for a torn meniscus, a crescent-shaped tissue dividing the joint cavity in the knee, and then they look for arthritis.

In cases involving rheumatoid arthritis, Trapeano said they refer the patient to a rheumatologist. The exact cause of rheumatoid arthritis is not known but it is considered a systemic autoimmune disease.

Common treatment for the knee first includes a non-steroid injection and physical therapy. A second-level of treatment requires a steroid injection. “In severe cases,”

Tropeano said, “where the arthritis has eaten out bone, we are able to give an injection of synthetic protein that serves as a replacement tissue.”

Tropeano said sometimes through arthroscopic surgery the doctor is able to shave off arthritis and clean the knee. The more serious treatments, Tropeano said, include knee and hip replacements.

Tropeano said each week her husband sees one to two hip fractures that require surgery.

“It is a common problem with aging, especially among women, because many are subject to osteoarthritis,” she said. “It is as much as eight times more prevalent among women than men.”

While many may associate falling with hip frac-

From Page 5

tions.

Internet. Instead of receiving these drugs, consumers received products containing the foreign version of Haldol, a powerful anti-psychotic drug that sent consumers to the emergency room, where they were treated for a host of ailments.

• TheWeb site provides accessible contact information that allows consumers to talk to a person if they have any comments or questions.

• The Web site has an

accessible and understandable privacy and security policy for its consumers.

By MARK LEDBETTER

Home staff writer

At least 50 percent of the patients entering the waiting room at Lemak Sports and Orthopedic clinic in Sylacauga are older adults and Dr. Anthony Tropeano and his wife and nurse practitioner, Danielle, are prepared to treat their ailments.

Danielle Tropeano said most orthopedic issues seniors face include osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. “Everything related to arthritis,” Tropeano said, “and we also see compound fractures.”

Tropeano said some of the common symptoms patients complain about are knee or hip aches or difficulty walking. “Xrays will show signs of

Bob Crisp/The Daily Home

Dr. Anthony Tropeano’s patients includes at least 50 percent older adults. tures, Tropeano said they also see a lot of forearm fractures resulting from falls.

“A primary concern for women is bone density and osteoarthritis,” Tropeano said, “to which

smoking and alcohol contribute.”

consumers with an existing prescription.

More information about prescription medication

safety is available at www. fda.gov.

See Tropeano, Page 8

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When shopping for medicine online, the FDA notes the following signs of a Web site that’s trustworthy: • The site is located in the United States.

• The Web site is licensed by the state board of pharmacy where the Web site is operating.

• The Web site offers a licensed pharmacist available to answer any ques-

• The Web site does not sell consumer information without consent.

• The Web site only sells prescription drugs to

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THE DAILY HOME, Talladega and St. Clair counties, Ala., Wednesday, October 17, 2012 — 7

He took the first step.

Always There Took Him the Rest of the Way. Gene Davenport values his independence. But when he faced a difficult recovery from back surgery, he knew he’d need help.

“My daughter lives in Texas, and I did not want to impose on her,” he recalls, “so when someone recommended Accordance, it sounded like the perfect solution.” Hard to believe for a man of his generation, but Mr. Davenport genuinely welcomed our caregiver’s support.

“From the first day in the hospital, I knew Sherri Sparks was a perfect match for me,” he continues. “When I went home, she coordinated her schedule around mine. Then she handled all my daily personal needs—from assistance in dressing, to meal preparation and light housekeeping, to running errands.

“What impressed me most of all, though, was her positive attitude. It had a huge impact on my recovery — and I can honestly say I’m better now than I was before surgery.”

For short-term or long-term In Home Care: When it’s someone in your family, call Accordance. We’ll make them—and you—feel like part of ours.

Before you hire an in-home care company, be sure to ask: Who is responsible for payroll taxes, Social Security, and liability insurance on the worker?

Who sends a replacement when my regular caregiver calls off sick?

Is the company insured, licensed, and bonded?

Are caregivers employees of the company or merely independent contractors?

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8 — THE DAILY HOME, Talladega and St. Clair counties, Ala., Wednesday, October 17, 2012

From Page 6 Tropeano said gout is not a primary issue the clinic treats but if left untreated for long periods of time gout can contribute to arthritic development.

For men, low testosterone is another condition that if left untreated can lead to loss of bone mass and osteoarthritis.

Tropeano suggested including vitamin D together with calcium to help with joint issues, She said glucosamine can be helpful, as well as a reduction in smoking and alcohol consumption. She recommended that at home seniors should keep areas well lighted and remove all random rugs.

The Tropeanos have five daughters and one son – Alexa, Ana, Catherine, Gabriella, Giselle and Tristan. During his spare time, Dr. Tropeano enjoys spending time with his family, hunting, snow skiing and golfing.

With a background in sports medicine, Dr. Tropeano also serves as the team physician for several Talladega County high schools, including Winterboro, Fayetteville, Childersburg, Sylacauga and B.B. Comer.

Services offered include ankle, knee, elbow, hip, shoulder and spine issues.

To schedule an appointment, call 256-208-0118.

The office is located in Sylacauga at 209 W. Spring St., Suite 301 in the Craddock Building in front of the Coosa Valley Medical Center.

Great gift ideas for seniors Exchanging gifts has become synonymous with the holiday season. Family members exchange gifts with one another, men and women trade gifts and greeting cards with their coworkers and students participate in grab bag gift exchanges in the classroom.

Giving gifts is such a big part of the holiday season that shoppers may run out of gift ideas before they have crossed everyone off their lists.

For example, it might not be easy to find the perfect gift for the senior citizen on your holiday shopping list. Seniors might not be up-to-date on the latest gadgets or might have downgraded from a home to a more manageable living arrangement, so knickknacks or decorative items for the home may not be too practical, either. The following are a few tips for gifting seniors this holiday season.

• Warm things up. As men and women age, many develop medical conditions that require medication. Medications like blood thinners can make seniors feel the cold more than others, so a gift that can keep seniors warm through the winter can make a great gift.

A thick wool sweater or

a fleece blanket is both practical and thoughtful.

• Open a senior’s eyes to e-readers. Many seniors find that maintaining a household is simply too much work once all the kids have grown up and moved out. As a result, many move from private homes into apartment complexes geared to the senior set or even into assisted living facilities that make it easier to deal with the daily demands of life. When seniors make such a move, they sacrifice space for convenience. Personal libraries may no longer be possible or practical, but an e-reader such as Amazon’s Kindle or the Nook(R) from Barnes and Noble allows seniors to store their favorite books in one small and convenient place.

• Give the lap of luxury. Many seniors are

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the best gift is the simplest gift. Seniors love to speak with their children and grandchildren, so why not give the gift of communication? If you haven’t already, alter your cellular phone plan to a family plan that gives seniors unlimited minutes when calling family members so they can speak to their grandkids as often as possible.

You can even go the extra mile and upgrade a senior’s computer so he or she has access to instant messaging and videoconferencing services such SkypeTM, allowing seniors to see just how fast their grandchildren are growing even if those youngsters are on the other side of the country.

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• Go healthy. Many men and women embrace a healthier lifestyle as they age. Seniors who might have been too busy raising a family to focus on their own health are typi-

cally encouraged by their physicians to exercise and embrace healthier eating habits. Gift-givers can help seniors on their quests to become healthier by buying them a membership to a local fitness club, many of which provide classes designed specifically for seniors.

Fitness clubs typically offer discounted memberships to seniors, who might even be eligible for rebates from their health insurance providers if they meet established attendance requirements.

Seniors who suffer from arthritis might benefit from a membership at a nearby yoga center.

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Savvy shoppers know that deals can be had on such luxuries, and it just takes a little patience and research. Sign up for a service like GrouponTM to gain access to exclusive discount offers to a variety of luxury offerings, including spa treatments, cruise vacations and rounds of golf. Signing up is free and easy, and you might just find a deal that makes a senior’s holiday season.

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THE DAILY HOME, Talladega and St. Clair counties, Ala., Wednesday, October 17, 2012 — 9

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Get to know risk factors for cataracts As men and women age, they can experience certain physical changes and health challenges.

Vision impairment is one condition that many associate with aging, and cataracts are a primary concern for those of middle-age and older.

Today, more than 22 million Americans age 40 and older have cataracts. According to the National Eye Institute, by age 80, more than half of all Americans will either have a cataract or have had cataract surgery.

Cataract is clouding of the eye’s lens that blocks or changes the passage of light into the eye. Normally the lens is clear, which allows light

to pass through to the back of the eye, so that a person can see welldefined images. If a cataract forms and the lens becomes covered in an opaque film, light cannot pass through easily.

The result will be fuzzy vision, almost like looking through a fogged-up window. If cataracts are not treated, an individual may eventually lose most of his or her vision.

One or both eyes can be affected by cataracts.

In the case of both eyes being compromised, one eye is usually worse than the other.

The primary risk factor for developing cataracts is age. The older a person is, the greater their risk. However, there

are several other risk factors as well.

• Intense heat or longterm exposure to UV rays from the sun • Certain diseases, such as diabetes • Obesity • High blood pressure • Inflammation in the eye • Hereditary influences • Long-term steroid use • Eye injuries • Other eye diseases • Smoking Prevent Blindness America provides free information to the public on everything

from cataract basics to tips on what to expect from cataract surgery.

Visit preventblindness. org/cataract or call its toll free number at (800) 331-2020. And, as part of its new Healthy Eyes Educational Series, PBA offers a specific online module on cataracts, including a Power Point presentation and guide.

The organization shares this information about cataracts: • Early symptoms of a cataract may include cloudy or blurry vision.

• Lights may cause a glare, seem too dim or seem too bright.

• Sufferers may also find it difficult to read or

drive, especially at night.

• Individuals may have to change their eyeglass prescriptions often.

There are no medications or other treatment options besides surgery to correct cataracts.

In the United States, cataract surgery has a 95 percent success rate, and patients often have 20/20 or 20/40 vision post-surgery. Cataract surgery is also the most frequently performed surgery, often performed as an outpatient procedure.

In Canada, where, according to Statistics Canada, seniors will make up 21 percent of the population by 2026, cataract surgery is also frequent and well tolerated. Approximately

250,000 cataract surgeries take place in Canada each year, according to The National Coalition for Vision Health.

It is widely recommended to get regular eye exams to check for cataracts early on.

“By getting a complete, dilated eye exam, your doctor can discuss with you the best strategy to protect your vision well into the future,” said Hugh R. Parry, president and CEO of Prevent Blindness America. “We encourage everyone, especially those ages 40 and older, to make their vision a priority by scheduling an eye appointment today.”

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10 — THE DAILY HOME, Talladega and St. Clair counties, Ala., Wednesday, October 17, 2012

Northside Medical expanding to meet needs

By WILL HEATH Home staff writer

Believe it or not, St. Clair County still qualifies as “medically underserved,” according to the federal government.

This despite construction of a $32 million St. Vincent’s St. Clair Hospital and the construction of a Veterans Affairs Home in the area. In spite of that and the influx of medical facilities in the area, Dr. Michael Dupre says the area is still in need.

“We’re still about six to seven physicians below what the area needs to service the population,” Dupre said. “We’re still consistently continuing to try to grow.”

As part of its service, Dupre and the other doctors at Northside Medical Associates — Dr. Carl Frosina and Dr. Rock Helms, the managing partners along with Dupre — are currently watching an additional building under construction at its facility, located at 70 Plaza Drive off U.S. 231 in Pell City.

The new facility will accommodate additional specialists, additional offices and additional amenities. It opens during the first week in November.

And, according to

Dupre, the addition is already spoken for.

“We won’t have any office space available after we open,” Dupre said.

Opened in 2000 as part of Baptist Health Systems, Northside has helped recruit a number of sub-specialists to the area. Dupre, who has been with the group since 2004, said they began planning the addition in 2008 as a means of doing even more.

“Every year, we have See Nortside, Page 11

Will Heath/The Daily Home

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THE DAILY HOME, Talladega and St. Clair counties, Ala., Wednesday, October 17, 2012 — 11

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Northside From Page 10

developed a waiting list for office space,” he said.

“Right now we need an additional five office suites.

“Even in an economic downturn, we need more space for the sub-specialists.”

Situated 45 minutes from Birmingham on an interstate that is under construction, Pell City residents have the need to stay in town as much as they can, according to Dupre.

“The problem (with health care) is access to services,” Dupre said.

“Specifically sub-specialists.

“For a retirement community like Pell City and Cropwell, enhancing access and convenience for those services has transformed this rural area into a situation with big-city facilities and access, that you don’t normally see.”

That includes an “after-care” facility, including cardiology and orthopedic coverage that the associates hope will keep patients out of the emergency rooms.

“Depending on what’s going on at any given time, the wait time at an emergency room can be 30 minutes or 4-5 hours,” Dupre said.

“Your typical wait time (in the after-care clinic) won’t be more than 3060 minutes.

The facility also recently unveiled new hearing services for senior citizens.

“It’s an insulated facility with thick walls,” Dupre said. “There’s no external noise.

“With folks coming to the workplace, if they’re in a situation with a lot of noise pollution, it’s important to get a hearing baseline before they start their job. This is another thing that helps to meet needs, so our folks won’t have to go to Birmingham.”

All the physicians at Northside are on staff at St. Vincent’s St. Clair.

Dupre said they hope to continue to recruit more doctors and more specialties to offer in the area.

“We are actively recruiting internists and family medical doctors to the area,” he said.

“We added six nurse practitioners in the past year to augment our needs, and to do more hands-on education.

“We want to continue to meet as many needs as we can, and provide the highest level of service we can.”

Contact Will Heath at wheath@thestclairtimes. com.

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12 — THE DAILY HOME, Talladega and St. Clair counties, Ala., Wednesday, October 17, 2012

Men are now retiring later than in the past According to the Center for Retirement Research at Boston College University, men are now retiring later than they have in the past.

In an analysis of data collected by the U.S. Census Bureau, the Center for Retirement Research found that the average retirement age for men has risen from 62 in the mid-1990s to 64 near the end of the first decade of the 21st century.

The reasons for this change are likely not because men are reluctant to leave office life behind, but because of a variety of factors that have to do with finances.

Many companies no longer offer pension plans, so men are more likely to work longer to save more money for their retirement.

In addition, Social Security benefits in the United States are now calculated differently than they were in the past, so men have a greater incentive to work longer.

The typical health care patient has changed in recent years. No longer are individuals putting all of their healthcare decisions into the hands of nurses and doctors. Patients are more informed than ever before and are interested in taking a more active role in their own care.

Thanks to the Internet, people are able to access information that, in the past, was not easily available. A few decades ago, medical data may have been elusive and filled with confusing jargon the layperson might not have understood without a crash course in biology. However, today there are different Web sites that clearly spell out information about certain illnesses and diseases. This means that patients may no longer be walking blindly into appointments with doctors.

Facing an illness is never easy, and the decision-making abilities could

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be hampered by emotions and the desire to improve as quickly as possible. Patients who do not have all of the facts may have to rely solely on the expertise of caregivers and physicians when making important healthcare decisions. By knowing the avenues of information, a patient can find assistance with careful decision-making.

While learning about an ailment is important, there are some things to consider.

• The Internet isn’t foolproof. Many online medical sites are very reliable and offer a wealth of pertinent information. They can be good starting points when seeking out information on a particular condition. It is

in your best interest to visit sites that are well-known and monitored by respected medical affiliations. Other sites may be peppered with exaggerated claims or misinformation. Therefore, do not go by online information alone.

• Don’t self-diagnose.

It can be easy to use the Internet as a means to narrowing down symptoms and making assumptions about what ailments you may have. Instead of using the Internet to self-diagnose your condition, leave the diagnosis up to your doctor and rely on online information after you are diagnosed. This can improve your understanding of the condition and any potential

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to gain more insight into particular diseases. While these forums may be good sources of support, information published on these sites could be misleading, inaccurate or unsafe. Before trying any proposed treatment, it is best to consult with your doctor.

Having a general knowledge of a medical condition can enable healthcare consumers to make more informed decisions about their situations.

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• Seek other avenues of information. You should never hesitate to seek a second opinion or go to a medical journal to find out more about a condition.

You have rights as a patient to be comfortable with the advice doctors give and be as involved in your treatment as you want to be.

• Online forums could be more harm than help.

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primetime

Assessing your abilities as an aging driver

Did you know?

Arthritis is a debilitating condition that affects mobility within a person’s joints. There are more than 100 different types of arthritis. It is estimated that there are around 50 million people in America with doctor-diagnosed arthritis or a similar joint disease. There are about 4 million Canadians who have arthritis, and it is estimated that, by 2026, more than 6 million Canadians age 15 and older will have arthritis.

Some self-examination can help

should look for signs that they’re having difficulty with driving.

If signs and street markings aren’t so easy to read anymore, you might need a new prescription for eyeglasses.

When the glare of headlights at night makes it difficult to see, your driver’s seat might need to be adjusted or you might want to consider antiglare eyeglasses that make it easier to see at night.

Assess your comfort level Safe drivers are also comfortable drivers. To assess your comfort level as a driver, ask yourself the following questions before getting back behind the wheel.

• Is it troublesome to look over your shoulder

and change lanes?

• Has steering become difficult?

• Has your reaction time when switching from the gas pedal to the brake pedal decreased?

If you can answer “yes” to any of the questions above, then it could be that you’re beginning to lose strength, coordination and/or flexibility, which can make it more difficult to operate a motor vehicle.

Answering “yes” doesn’t mean you have to give up your driver’s license.

In fact, your doctor might be able to prescribe therapies or medicines or suggest a fitness regimen that can make it easier for you to comfortably drive a car. In addition, if you’re having trouble steering or operating a motor vehicle in

any way, you might just want to find a vehicle that’s easier to drive, such as one with an automatic transmission that has power steering and brakes.

When assessing your comfort level, also examine your mental state while driving. If other drivers make you uncomfortable or traffic signs are confusing, this can make it difficult to safely operate an automobile.

Such feelings when driving could also be a side effect of a particular medication, so discuss the issue with your doctor to see if that’s the

case and if there are any alternatives.

Honestly address loved ones’ concerns Aging drivers are often the last to notice if their abilities behind the wheel are starting to diminish. Loved ones are often put in the position of talking to aging drivers about their abilities, and this can cause friction.

If loved ones have expressed concern about your abilities as a driver, honestly address these concerns, even if it’s initially hurtful or embarrassing to do so. Your

loved ones are sharing their feelings out of genuine concern for your well-being, so don’t look at it as an assault on your self-sufficiency.

Some organizations, including the AARP and AAA, offer driving classes for mature drivers to help them more adequately handle the challenges aging drivers might face.

Aging drivers face obstacles they may or may not be prepared for.

When such challenges arise, that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s time to stop driving entirely.

Instead, honestly weigh a host of factors before deciding if it’s still safe for you to be behind the wheel.

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they’ve earned more than just the right to legally operate an automobile.

To many drivers, a driver’s license is symbolic of freedom and self-sufficiency.

The significance of a driver’s license never truly dissipates, which makes it difficult for aging men and women to address their abilities as a driver and whether or not they can still safely share the road with other motorists. Though many drivers can safely stay behind the wheel well into their golden years, others begin to recognize their skills are starting to diminish as they approach senior citizen status.

For those who want help gauging their abilities as a driver, some self-examination can help.

Assess your eyesight Healthy eyes are essential to being a safe driver, and drivers can assess their eyesight in a number of ways. In addition to visiting an eye doctor for an eye examination, drivers

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THE DAILY HOME, Talladega and St. Clair counties, Ala., Wednesday, October 17, 2012 — 15

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10 warning signs of Alzheimer’s disease and events; asking for the same information over and over again; or relying on memory aides such as reminder notes or even family members for things individuals could once remember on their own.

2. Difficulty planning.

Some people might start to exhibit difficulty following a plan or working with numbers, be it following a recipe or paying the monthly bills.

Concentration is often difficult for those exhibiting symptoms of Alzheimer’s.

3. Difficulty completing familiar tasks.

Daily tasks such as driving to work or remembering the rules of a familiar game will prove difficult for people with Alzheimer’s.

4. Disorientation with regards to time and/or place.

Nearly everyone has had momentary lapses where they forget what time it is or what day it is. But such lapses are not momentary for people with Alzheimer’s, who might even get lost on their own street and not remember how to get home.

5. Trouble understanding images and spatial relationships.

Some people with Alzheimer’s have difficulty reading, judging distance or determining color or contrast. For example, a person with Alzheimer’s might walk past a mirror and not realize he or she is the person in the mirror.

6. New problems with words in speaking or writing.

People with Alzheimer’s might experience trouble holding or joining a conversation. An example is stopping in the middle of a conversation and having no idea how to continue. They might also struggle with vocabulary, often having trouble finding the right word to express what they’re think-

ing.

7. Misplacing things.

People with Alzheimer’s might put things in unusual places and then experience difficulty retracing their steps to find those items.

This tends to occur more frequently over time, and they often accuse others of stealing items they simply can’t find.

8. Decreased or poor

judgement.

Poor judgement, such as not visiting the doctor or mishandling finances, is another warning sign for Alzheimer’s. These poor decisions can extend to personal grooming, which men and women with Alzheimer’s might neglect.

9. Withdrawal from society.

Men and women with

Alzheimer’s might start to withdraw from society, removing themselves from social activities, projects at work or hobbies. Avid sports fans might no longer be able to follow their favorite team, while social butterflies might grow reclusive.

10. Changes in mood and personality.

People with Alzheimer’s

might experience mood swings for no apparent reason and can become anxious, confused, depressed, fearful, or suspicious.

Acting out of character might also be indicative of Alzheimer’s.

More information about Alzheimer’s disease is available at www.alz.org and www.alzheimer.ca.

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Few families are fortunate enough to say they have not been impacted

by Alzheimer’s disease.

A progressive, degenerative disease of the brain, Alzheimer’s impairs thinking and memory, accounting for 50 to 80 percent of dementia cases according to the Alzheimer’s Association.

Though many people’s experiences with Alzheimer’s disease involves an elderly relative, the disease is not exclusive to the elderly. Up to 5 percent of people with the disease have earlyonset Alzheimer’s, which most often appears when someone is in their 40s and 50s.

In 2011, 59-year-old Pat Summitt, the all-time winningest coach in NCAA basketball history and a beloved figure on the campus of the University of Tennessee, revealed that she had been diagnosed with early-onset dementia, Alzheimer’s type. That announcement opened the eyes of men and women across the country, who might otherwise never have known that dementia could strike so early or to someone who seemed as healthy as Summitt, who vowed to continue coaching despite the diagnosis. Because it can strike men and women even if they aren’t elderly, it’s important to know these 10 warning signs of Alzheimer’s, courtesy of the Alzheimer’s Association and the Alzheimer Society of Canada.

1. Memory loss that disrupts daily life.

Memory loss is one of the most common signs of Alzheimer’s. This is especially so if men and women forget things that happened very recently, which can negatively impact their daily lives.

Additional signs include forgetting important dates

16 — THE DAILY HOME, Talladega and St. Clair counties, Ala., Wednesday, October 17, 2012

primetime

Arthritis Exercise Classes mainly attended by seniors

By ELSIE HODNETT Home staff writer

The Lincoln Parks and Recreation Department is hoping to increase the senior programs it offers and reopen the Senior Building, funding allowing.

“The Parks and Recreation Department currently offers some senior programs,” said Roben Duncan, director of the department.

Duncan said the LPRD has hosted quarterly senior events since 2009.

“These events include a variety of activities in one afternoon, with lunch door prizes, and things like bingo or art lessons,” she said. “They have been very popular and attendance has been increasing.”

Duncan said the LPRD began offering the Arthritis Exercise Classes in January. The classes are

open to people of all ages, but are mainly attended by seniors.

“We also started senior archery lessons in June,” she said. “We have a new indoor and an outdoor archery range.”

Duncan said when the city’s Senior Center building closed last fall, the LPRD also took on delivering frozen meals to seniors who qualified under the East Alabama Regional Planning and Development Commission criteria for the free meals.

“Right now, the Senior Building has heat but no air-conditioning,” she said. “So we can’t use that building during the summer. We’ve been working for quite some time to get air-conditioning in there.”

Duncan said there is currently funding for moving existing city air-conditioning units to the Senior Building.

“There is also funding

in the budget to hire a new employee, who would be the part-time Senior Center director, run the senior programs and work on expanding them,” she said.

Duncan said the Senior Center building also needs minor renovations in addition to air-conditioning.

“It could be useable this winter, after those minor renovations are completed, because the building does have heat,” she said.

Duncan said ideally the Senior Center building would have daily programs Monday through Friday, although hours have not yet been set and would depend on programming and staffing.

“For programs, we are looking at offering card and board games available daily, beginning with the Masters Program, which is See Arthritis, Page 17

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Vivian Vincent improves her balance and reflexes kicking a beach ball as part of the Lincoln Parks and Recreation Department Arthritis Exercise Class workout. The arthritis classes are hosted as a senior program, however, they are open to all ages.

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THE DAILY HOME, Talladega and St. Clair counties, Ala., Wednesday, October 17, 2012 — 17

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Arthritis From Page 16 similar to Olympics for senior citizens such as pool, dominoes, horseshoes, volleyball and other games, a media center with TV, furniture for watching TV, movies and special events, and computers,” she said. “We are also looking at beginning a senior choir program, computer lessons, art lessons, quilting, knitting and/or crocheting.”

Duncan said she would also like to have speakers once a week or once a month, depending on the interest shown by attending seniors, to speak on a variety of senior needs such as nutrition, finances and other topics as requested.

“We want to find out from the seniors what they want to do,” she

N

said. “We plan to continue with the arthritis exercises, and possibly add different styles and forms of exercise good for seniors.

We are also looking at after-hours activities and traveling trips as well.

We just want our seniors to submit ideas and try to accommodate them as funding allows.”

Bob Crisp/The Daily Home

At right, Delores Wilson participates in the Lincoln Parks and Recreation Department Arthritis Exercise Class workouts doing one the class’ favorite activities — hitting and kicking beach balls back and forth to each other as part of the noimpact exercise class.

NORTHSIDE Medical Associates

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18 — THE DAILY HOME, Talladega and St. Clair counties, Ala., Wednesday, October 17, 2012

primetime

The Gardens of Talladega has multiple levels of care It’s late morning at The Gardens of Talladega, and a group of about a dozen of the 16 residents of the assisted living area of the Gardens have gathered in the dining room for a few rounds of bingo.

Resident care associate Teresa Wideman is busy calling out the numbers, taking time to see that everyone hears them.

As it grows closer to lunchtime, the game breaks up, the residents making their way to their rooms to get ready for lunch.

Broad hallways lead to the bedrooms and living suites, and a spacious parlor fitted with soft furnishings and a piano along with an electric keyboard are just across the hall from the dining room.

Gardens administrator Greer Bisignani enters the foyer as the residents mill about, speaking to each by name and asking questions about how they are doing and what they might need.

There’s meatloaf and broccoli, corn on the cob and fresh sliced tomatoes, along with hot rolls and apple pie, being placed on plates in the kitchen and most all of the Garden’s assisted living residents will return to the dining room for lunch together.

Broad tables with cushioned armchairs await the residents, who are served

Laura Nation-Atchison/The Daily Home

Residents of The Gardens of Talladega enjoy a morning bingo session.

Many are able to move about without using a device for assistance.

The Gardens offers meals, of course, along with assistance with bathing and dressing, snacks and home cooked meals provided under the supervision of a registered dietician, there is a 24-7 See Gardens, Page 19

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their lunch together, unless there is a particular reason that someone should prefer to have their meal in their room, Bisignani said.

Socialization is encouraged, but not required, and most residents choose to have mealtimes together, she said.

It’s a home-like setting at The Gardens, designed to offer the care and amenities residents need on an individual basis.

The Gardens of Talladega includes another building where specialty care is available for a total of 16 residents. These rooms are for residents who have a higher level of needs.

Most of these residents have been diagnosed with dementia or Alzheimer’s disease, and each is supplied with the appropriate level of care according to their individual condition.

The assisted living building is designed for those who are ambulatory on their own, with or without support devices such as walkers or canes.

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THE DAILY HOME, Talladega and St. Clair counties, Ala., Wednesday, October 17, 2012 — 19

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Gardens From Page 18

There are adjoining rooms and a limited number of suites available.

Many of the rooms have private baths but some share a community bath.

The Gardens of Talladega previously operated as Summer Trace and Autumn Trace and is now managed by Great Oaks Management.

The Gardens of Talladega also offers respite care, which is short-term care for caregivers who need to be away from their family

Laura Nation-Atchison/The Daily Home

The Gardens of Talladega administrator Greer Bisignani greets residents as they leave from a round of morning bingo. member for from one to two weeks, whether the reason is personal health issues, rest from being a caregiver or for a personal vacation.

It is licensed by the Alabama Department of Public Health.

The overall philosophy for The Gardens of Talladega is one of providing a small home-like setting, with a secure feeling and a loving and caring lifestyle.

The Gardens’ residents’ families are also very important for the level of care and attention the facility sets for the residents.

“We are so fortunate that our residents’ families are involved as they are here,” Bisignani said.

“They will see things that we may not see. Our families are very involved in our residents’ care.”

Contact Laura NationAtchison at lnatiion@ dailyhome.com.

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staff and medications are prepackaged by the residents’ pharmacies and administered by Gardens staff.

The Gardens staff also takes care of all laundry and housekeeping services, and utilities are included, even cable television access, all except for private telephones, There is an in-house hairdresser and barber shop one day a week and all rooms have an emergency call system.

Transportation is available as needed and the facility has a complete smoke detector system and smoke and fire detectors.

There are no level of care charges, one fee covers all services needed for residents at The Gardens of Talladega.

Located at the end of Chaffee Street at 130 Seasons Way in Talladega, the two buildings operated

by The Gardens are situated on a quiet street with manicured grounds, patios and wide wrap around porches for enjoying nice days outdoors.

Residents may even have pets, as long as they have current vet records on file and couples may be accommodated, though each pays a separate price for their accommodations.

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20 — THE DAILY HOME, Talladega and St. Clair counties, Ala., Wednesday, October 17, 2012

primetime

Comfort Care’s goal: Enhancing quality of life

By KENNY FARMER Special Projects editor

Bob Crisp/The Daily Home

Got Pain?

Darrell Lee, consultant at Comfort Care Hospice, and chaplain Greg Tankersley, entertain residents at Spring Terrace Assisted Living in Sylacauga. patient, Comfort Care’s chaplain, Greg Tankersley, provides 13 months of grief support for the surviving family members.

Tankersley also holds a Grief, Support and

Let us get to the root of the problem without drugs or surgery. We offer all-natural treatment plans designed to alleviate the following conditions: •Neck Pain •Allergies •Back Pain •Sports Injuries •Herniated Discs •Auto/Personal •Congested Sinuses Injury •Headaches •Leg/Arm Pain

Fellowship meeting at 11:30 a.m. on the third Tuesday of each month at Presbyterian Oaks Apartments.

See Comfort, Page 21

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At Comfort Care Hospice in Talladega, the goal is to maintain and enhance patients’ quality of life by managing pain while providing emotional support to caregivers and family members.

“With hospice, the main thing is, we want to go in and provide quality care,” said Darrell Lee, consultant at Comfort Care Hospice. “We manage pain, give the patients more options, more control.”

Comfort Care suggests considering hospice care when serious pain becomes difficult to manage; when daily personal care becomes difficult; when treatment is no longer working; and when family members become overwhelmed from providing daily care.

Lee said that many times their patients are at the end of life. However, not everyone in hospice care is at the end of life.

He said some people do get better, become stable and are discharged from home health care.

He said if the patient is at the end of life, the focus of the care is centered on improving quality of life for the patient and the families.

He said one of the biggest advantages of Comfort Care Hospice is the fact that support and care is provided not only to patients, but to their families as well.

“Whether it be grief support after a death or emotional support from the chaplain, social worker or nurses, it’s everybody as a team going in there to provide the best care possible. It’s more than medication. It’s the emotional and spiritual side, too.”

After the death of a

THE DAILY HOME, Talladega and St. Clair counties, Ala., Wednesday, October 17, 2012 — 21

primetime

Comfort From Page 20

“I know I’ve seen — even in my own family — that after somebody passes, especially with couples, a lot of times it’s different after three or four months. You know, you don’t have the same crowd around,” Lee said.

“I think the grief support is very big.

“We’re based in this community,” he said.

“We’re the only one (hospice) in Talladega. We’re located right here.

“Anytime, day or night, if someone needs something, they’re able to call here,” Lee said. “One of our nurses is always on call.”

Lee has been at Comfort Care Hospice for just over a month, replacing previous consultant

Candice Hightower.

“I’m excited about being here,” he said. “It’s been a pleasure coming in here, meeting everybody and being part of a team. It’s been nice.”

Lee has a background in nursing and in longterm care. He was an LPN for six years, working at a nursing home in Talladega, as well as other nursing homes in the surrounding areas.

“I was very excited to get to come over here,” Lee said.

As Comfort Care’s consultant, he goes out and makes connections in the community.

“We do activities in some of the nursing homes as much as we can,” Lee said. “The residents really enjoy people coming in.”

He said that staff members at Comfort Care will drop by to visit, play bingo and take birthday cakes to the residents.

“Sometimes we’ll go out and do fingernails (at the nursing homes),” Lee said. “I’ve got two daughters, so I’m capable of doing that, too!”

Lee said visits like the trips to local nursing homes are part of the emotional support Comfort Care provides to its community.

“It’s just about staying in touch,” he said.

Lee said serving as an LPN has helped him in his new position. He said Comfort Care was looking for someone who had that type of background when searching for a new consultant.

He said that seeing

people at the end of life, some with home health care and some without, has been beneficial to him as he provides information to the community about the benefits of hospice care.

Lee said the thing he has been most pleased with since taking over as consultant at Comfort Care is the fact that everyone works as a team and to the total benefit of the patient and the family.

“It’s just really the caring attitude,” he said.

“Everybody’s going that extra mile to help. I’ve been really impressed with that.”

Contact Kenny Farmer at kfarmer@dailyhome. com.

Researchers: People 70 and older largest group of drivers Recent surveys show there are fewer young people and more senior citizens behind the wheel in the United States.

According to the National Household Travel Survey, members of Generation Y, who are between the ages of 16 to 34, are driving less.

From 2001 to 2009, the average annual number of vehicle miles traveled by Gen-Y-ers dropped by 23 percent.

Some find the process to be a hassle, others are frightened by the prospect

of controlling a vehicle, and others are merely taking a green approach to transportation, choosing bicycles or public transportation.

There is also the high cost of owning and fueling-up a vehicle today.

On the flip side, researchers at the University of Michigan have found that people age 70 and older make up the largest group of drivers on the road — even higher than those in their 40s and 50s.

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AT LAKESIDE HOSPICE THE ANSWER IS YES. ASK FOR LAKESIDE HOSPICE, IT IS YOUR CHOICE! Serving St. Clair, Blount, Talladega, Jefferson, Etowah, Calhoun, Shelby and Coosa Counties.

308121

22 — THE DAILY HOME, Talladega and St. Clair counties, Ala., Wednesday, October 17, 2012

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Learning to live on a fixed income Study: People 65 and older fastest growing segment filing for bankruptcy Difficult financial times

have forced many people

young and old to alter their lifestyles in order to stay afloat financially.

Though unemployment has garnered most of the headlines as the economy has struggled the last several years, it’s not just men and women of working age who have felt the pinch.

In a 2010 study from the University of Michigan Law School, researchers found that people age 65 and older are the fastest-growing segment of the U.S. population seeking bankruptcy protection. While there’s no single culprit for the rise in bankruptcy filings among seniors, the state of Florida could offer valuable insight as to why the nation’s older citizens are increasingly

filing for bankruptcy.

Many retirees call Florida home, and in the past such retirees could tap into their home equity whenever they began to struggle financially.

However, like most of the country, Florida’s housing market is depressed, making it less viable for seniors to tap into their home equity to solve their financial problems. In fact, according to a study by the Administrative Office of the U.S. Courts, bankruptcy filings increased by 118 percent in states where the home price index decreased.

For many seniors fearful of financial struggles, living on a fixed income can be a helpful way of ensuring their future does not involve filing for

bankruptcy. Though living on a fixed income is a definite challenge and certainly offers no guarantee that bankruptcy can be avoided, it does provide a framework seniors can rely on to keep their heads above water during difficult economic times.

• Make an honest assessment. Living on a fixed income involves being honest with yourself and admitting what your resources truly are.

Write down any sources of income, including Social Security payments, pension payouts, investments, etc.

Then write down how much money you have in savings or print out a statement of all savings accounts.

income and savings, write down all your monthly expenses, including all expenses, no matter how minute they may seem. From here you can determine just how much you can spend each month.

• Prioritize spending habits. Some expenses, including medications and monthly utility bills, will always remain a top priority. However, men and women who must begin living on a fixed income need to prioritize how they spend their discretionary funds. For instance, a membership at the local country club can cost several thousands of dollars per year, whereas the local public golf course only charges players each time they play. While the country club might have a better course, it could be more prudent to choose

the public course and save the cost of a private membership instead.

• Find it for free. Men and women pay for many services each month that they could very well find for free.

For example, in addition to books, many local libraries now allow members to check out CDs and DVDs at no cost. The same also goes for magazines. Instead of paying a monthly subscription cost, visit the local library and read the magazines there for free.

If the local library does not have your favorite periodical, the content could very well be available for free online.

• Expect the unexpected. One of the worst things that can happen to a person on a fixed income is to encounter an unexpected cost. This

Once you have an accurate figure of both

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Coming in under budget and making the most of it can make the difference between capably handling an emergency or being forced to consider unattractive alternatives such as filing for bankruptcy.

For more information on living on a fixed income, visit the AARP at www.aarp.org.

Call Heaven or Kelsey with questions concerning Hospice Care for your loved ones.

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Men and women on fixed incomes should expect such emergencies and save accordingly each month. Saving money should never go out of style, and those on fixed incomes should still attempt to save money each month.

Public & Community Relations, Heaven Sapp & Kelsey Moore

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THE DAILY HOME, Talladega and St. Clair counties, Ala., Wednesday, October 17, 2012 — 23

primetime

Tips for long-distance caregivers Caring for a friend or family member who has cancer is not easy. It may only get more difficult when a caregiver lives far away.

Long-distance caregiving may not be ideal for the patient or the caregiver, but it’s sometimes the only option.

Long-distance caregivers can expect their out-ofpocket expenses to be higher, as the cost of travel alone is likely to be considerable. While long-distance caregiving may not be ideal, the American Cancer Society offers the following tips to help men and women entrusted with caring for a cancer-

stricken friend or family member from afar.

• Make sure your loved one’s home is safe. When you get the chance to visit your loved one’s home, make the most of that visit and ensure his or her home is safe. If the illness has made things more difficult around the house, address any of these issues before you return home. Patients who receive chemotherapy are often weakened after treatment, so it can help to install some grab bars in the bathroom or purchase a shower seat to reduce the risk of falling in the shower. In addition, make sure hand-

rails inside and outside the home are secure. If they’re loose, tighten them so they provide adequate support.

• Clean up around the house. Cancer patients may also be too weak to keep up with their chores around the house. A dirty home can be depressing to men and women battling cancer, so clean up around the house to brighten the home and reduce the risk of an insect or rodent infestation.

• Be ready for a crisis.

No one wants to imagine a situation in which his or her loved one suffering from cancer has an emergency, but caregiv-

ers need to do just that.

Have someone you can count on nearby to check on your friend or family member if you suddenly cannot reach the cancer patient. Introduce yourself to your loved one’s next-door neighbor or meet a close friend who lives nearby that you can contact should your friend or family member prove difficult to reach.

• Make a list of medications and update it regularly. Cancer patients often take certain medications as part of their treatment and recovery, and caregivers should make a list of these medications, periodically updating the list as the

treatment and recovery process progresses.

• Make sure your loved one has a cell phone. Though it might seem hard to believe, some people, especially the elderly, still do not have cellular phones.

When serving as a longdistance caregiver, it’s imperative that you can easily and routinely reach your cancer-stricken friend or relative.

Cancer treatment might make it difficult for him or her to get to a land line, so be sure he or she has a cell phone that he or she can carry with them at all times.

Program important num-

205-814-4200

bers, including your own number, as well as his or herphysician’s and a neighbor’s or nearby relative’s number, into the phone.

• Stay in touch with the patient’s physician.

While a physician might not be able to share all the details of your loved one’s condition, you can keep in touch with him or her to stay abreast of how the treatment and recovery process is going.

A physician can help you tailor your caregiving to best manage the patient’s needs, adjusting that plan as the treatment and recovery process evolves.

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24 — THE DAILY HOME, Talladega and St. Clair counties, Ala., Wednesday, October 17, 2012

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Pattillo has been in business since 1964

By CHRIS NORWOOD

the inside of the ear and shows a color, three dimensional display of what it sees, Pattillo said. “If there is something like a wax blockage or an infection, they can find that and take care of it. They can remove and clear up the problem.

That’s probably the most important service we offer, the free screening.

One of the more common complaints of people heading into the golden years is that they can no longer hear as well as they once did, whether going to church, talking on the phone with grandchildren or just sitting at home watching television.

For people in this situation, Pattillo Balance and Hearing Center operates a dozen different locations in east central Alabama, including one in Talladega.

“We’ve been in business since 1964, and Talladega was one of the original locations,” owner Trey Pattillo said. “We want people to know that we will treat them and their loved ones just like we would treat our own mothers and fathers.”

But while their treatment goals have not changed over the years, hearing aids have improved dramatically since Lyndon Johnson and Beatlemania.

“The technology today is more like a computer,” Pattillo said. “We can record sounds through the hearing aid and make adjustments based on that, for instance. We can program to the exact configuration you need.”

Pattillo went on to explain that this technology does not raise any privacy concerns. “It doesn’t exactly record the words being said, so it’s not like we’re listening in to someone else’s conversations. It can track the decibel levels and what the hearing aid is doing in reaction to them.”

Hearing aids have also gotten a great deal smaller and are frequently 100 percent invisible.

“We also have remote controls available, and phone options and automat-

Tina Van Horn is a hearing specialist with Pattillo Balance and Hearing Center in Talladega. She provides free testing and helps to program the hearing aids as well. ic adjustments available,” he said.

The remote control is particularly important for seniors who might find themselves in a variety of situations through the day that would require adjusting their hearing aids.

“It used to be the hearing aid was just set one way, and that was it. With the remote, you can adjust it for if you’re going into a noisy restaurant or going to church or going hunting or going to a sporting event.

And there are also settings for talking on a cell phone or on a landline,” Pattillo said.

Patients can be tested and have their hearing aids designed and fitted at the Pattillo location nearest them. In Talladega, Tina Van Horn is the specialist who handles all the testing and programming, while Beth Carroll provides the administrative support.

Each Pattillo center offers free screening and use of a video otoscope, a tiny camera that explores

“If that’s not the problem, and there is a mild hearing loss, we have some assisted listening devices that can provide entry level amplification for telephone conversations, watching TV or going to church,” Pattillo said. “If the hearing loss is more severe, then a more sophisticated device can be designed and programmed on site.”

Medicare does not cover hearing aid purchases, but some private insurers do, and the number of them is growing, Pattillo said.

“Even without that,

Beth Carroll provides the administrative support for the Pattillo Balance and Hearing Center in Talladega.

though, you’re not going to have to pay for the whole thing up front. We can set up monthly payments, or you can put it on a credit card,” he said.

Providing Insurance and Financial Services Home Office, Bloomington, Illinois 61710

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THE DAILY HOME, Talladega and St. Clair counties, Ala., Wednesday, October 17, 2012 — 25

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26 — THE DAILY HOME, Talladega and St. Clair counties, Ala., Wednesday, October 17, 2012

primetime

Hobbies for golden years Pros and cons of antiwrinkle injections

Since Botox(R) received Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval back in April 2002, it and its successors have become the drugs of choice in wrinkle reduction. These treatments are a derivative of the botulinum toxin, the same bacteria that causes botulism. Botulinum toxin is one of the more powerful neurotoxins discovered.

Because it deadens nerve impulses and relaxes muscles, it is widely used to relax the face in areas where wrinkles are prevalent, thusly reducing the appearance of wrinkles as well.

The types of facial lines that are most often treated with these products are the ones that appear when one is frowning or squinting. Frown lines, wrinkles on the forehead, crows feet and the like are frequent treatment areas.

Areas on the lower half of the face are sometimes treated, but it’s controversial due to the risk of damaging important facial nerves.

There are potentially serious risks associated with these wrinkle treatments. It is important to weigh the risks associated before making the commitment to the treatments. Furthermore, it is important to visit a qualified cosmetic specialist, dermatologist or cosmetic surgeon for the administration of any botulinum toxin.

Pros These procedures are relatively safe when administered by a skilled person. They are known to temporarily erase wrinkles for 3 to 6 months. Many people find a boost in self-esteem after receiving a treatment. Many others have gotten compliments about looking younger or happier, especially if wrinkles created an angry or sad expression to the face. Injections are less expensive than other cosmetic surgery.

Cons As with any drug treatment, there are side effects that may negate the benefits of treatment. These can include drooping of eyelids, swelling, redness or bruising at injection sites, and infections. Faces also may lack emotions and limit a person’s ability to communicate effec-

tively.

It’s when the botulinum toxin spreads outside of the treatment area where severe side effects can occur that might be life threatening. These include all-over muscle weakness, hoarseness, loss of bladder control, problems swallowing or breathing and other side effects.

Because this is a medical procedure, it is important to have a medical professional administer the product in a medical setting. “Botox parties,” where an unskilled technician performs the injections can be risky for all involved.

active. They also allow for quiet time and mind wandering — which can free up creative thinking.

Hobbies can also serve as a means to connecting with people and opening up new groups of friends.

There are many hobbies you can consider, depending on physical health and abilities. These may be hobbies you once enjoyed in the past or new activities to expand your horizons. And hobbies need not be crafty in the traditional sense, just about any activity — even being a mentor — can be a form of a hobby.

Starting a hobby When deciding on a hobby, you can first take an inventory of your skills and interests. If you have always been handy around

wood and construction, perhaps a woodworking hobby will be enjoyable and also may work as a source of income revenue.

Other activities that require the use of the hands and mind include knitting, needlepoint, painting, puzzles, quilting, scrapbooking, and crocheting. These can keep the mind active and improve dexterity and fine motor skills.

Next, you may want to consider the costs surrounding a hobby. While something like taking photos may have relatively low costs, collectibles, exotic sports, sports cars, and travel could become expensive. It’s important to weight the costs against

See Hobbies, Page 27

Wrinkle treatments can be effective, but carry with them some risks. Explore all the benefits and risks prior to administration of botulinum toxin.

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For many men and women, the fear of aging and the desire to look young as long as possible has driven scores of people to doctors’ offices around the country for antiwrinkle injections.

Whether retirement is on the horizon or has already begun, more free time equates to an increased opportunity to fill your days with enjoyable activities.

Individuals facing busy schedules are often forced to push hobbies to the sidelines, as more pressing things, such as a job, household responsibilities, and parenting tasks, are accomplished. Once retirement arrives, a newfound freedom in your schedule may occur, and there can be plenty of hours to devote to the hobbies and pastimes you find enjoyable.

According to research, hobbies can have many benefits. They may serve as an emotional outlet or a way to relax. Hobbies can keep the mind and hands

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THE DAILY HOME, Talladega and St. Clair counties, Ala., Wednesday, October 17, 2012 — 27

primetime

Professional Apothecary has evolved over the years

By AZIZA JACKSON Home staff writer

Professional Apothecary is more than a pharmacy.

Not only does it have a longstanding history in the Talladega community, but the services it provides run the gamut of medical equipment, supplies and specialty products.

Everything from power mobility devices, diabetic shoes, oxygen therapy, bathroom safety, respiratory, diabetic, ambulatory and mobility equipment, can be found at Professional Apothecary at 210 North St. Aziza Jackson/The Daily Home

This rollator is just one of the many products sold at Professional Apothecary that help patients with mobility.

your finances to ensure that you will be financially comfortable while engaging in this particular hobby.

Explore what your friends are doing. If you want to get into a new hobby, ask neighbors and friends what they do to keep busy — and try it out. You just may find that you’re naturally inclined to do this type of activity and enjoy it.

Visit a local hobby shop or craft store and browse through the aisles.

See where your attention is drawn and give that activity a try. From building model trains to cultivating an herb garden,

Medical Equipment management associate, and Laura Glow, Durable Medical Equipment coordinator, work together to ensure patients receive the best care possible, whether it be a home delivery service or diabetic shoe molding.

Usually a doctor faxes in an order, just as they would for a prescription medication, and Smith and Glow work to get the product to the customer as soon as possible.

“We do a lot of orders for the rehab here so we can have an opportunity to set up a delivery with a patient,” Smith said.

“That’s what we require, for them to let us know a day before they leave.”

He said the time it takes to get a product to a customer often varies depending on the order.

“We try to keep common items in stock,” Smith said. “We have to order lift claims about a week in advance, specialty products take a little longer.”

Harris said a lot of people in town don’t realize they also specialize in mastectomy bras and breast prosthesis.

Other popular prod-

See Pharmacy, Page 28

TALLADEGA OPHTHALMOLOGY CLINIC Expert Care For Your Eyes

Hobbies From Page 26

“We opened as a drug store almost 50 years ago, and from day No. 1 we had a wheelchair in the window,” owner Blake Harris said. “Medicare was still in its infancy stage.”

Harris said the business has evolved over the years, especially in the area of specialty products.

Currently, some highsellers in the medical equipment department are testing equipment, adult and pediatric nebulizers, and diabetic shoes.

Diabetes is one of the major medical conditions in this area, Harris said.

Craig Smith, Durable

Routine Eye Examinations for Glasses & Contact Lens Specializing in Surgical Eye Care including “No Stitch” Cataract Surgery, Laser & Surgical Treatment for Diabetic Retinopathy, Macular Degeneration, Glaucoma & After Cataract Membrane

there are dozens of ideas to try.

Other pastimes A hobby can take the form of volunteer work, teaching, mentoring, joining a martial arts class, taking classes at a college, and even caring for a pet.

If you are the type who likes to interact with other people instead of engaging in a solitary hobby, consider one of these types of activities instead.

Once a hobby is started, it is not set in stone. If you find you do not feel motivated to do this hobby, try something else. Remember, the days are now yours to fill, so maximize time spent with activities you can enjoy.

Khalid L. Khan M.D. Board Certified Ophthalmologist

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Medical Emergency Pager 205-819-9911

307208

28 — THE DAILY HOME, Talladega and St. Clair counties, Ala., Wednesday, October 17, 2012

primetime

Treatment made easier and more convenient for patients

By DAVID ATCHISON Home staff writer

Dr. Robert Heidepriem frequently travels to Pell City to assist patients who are in dire need of medical treatment or surgery.

“We bring the care to them,” Heidepriem said.

“Otherwise, they would have to go all the way to Gadsden or Birmingham for treatment.”

He said some people have limited resources to travel back and forth to Birmingham, so the St. Vincent’s St. Clair Advanced Wound Center in the Physician’s Plaza, adjacent to the new hospital, makes treatment easier

and more convenient for patients.

“We provide a service that is not here but is needed,” said Heidepriem, who was born and raised in Auburn, but now lives in Birmingham with his wife and three children.

The vascular surgeon also travels to St. Vincent’s Blount to diagnose and treat patients with diseases associated with blood flow in arteries, veins and other vessels that transport blood to organs and tissues.

He said the restriction of blood flow can affect organs and tissues anywhere in the body.

Heidepriem said he

identifies the problem and where blockage may be so he can repair and restore blood flow to tissues and organs.

The restriction of blood flow can occur from an array of problems, from high blood pressure to high cholesterol to diabetes to genetics, as well as many other vascular ailments associated with coronary artery diseases.

Heidepriem said surgeons diagnose arterial diseases through ultra sounds, CT scans and MRI’s.

Even though there’s not a day that goes by that Heidepriem is not performing vascular sur-

gery, he said open surgical procedure is the last resort when treating patients.

“Sometimes we can treat symptoms with just medication,” he said.

“Other times we can intervene with an arteriogram and possible stints to allow the proper flow of blood.”

He said some patients are placed on low cholesterol diets, and warned to watch their salt intake.

Some patients are prescribed cholesterol medicine or a walking regimen to improve blood flow and the patient’s overall health.

David Atchison/The Daily Home

See Treatment, Page 29

Dr. Robert Heidepriem is a vascular surgeon with the St. Vincent’s St. Clair Advanced Wound Center in Pell City.

702 East Battle St. Talladega, AL

Craig Smith is Durable Medical Equipment management associate, and Laura Glow is Durable Medical Equipment coordinator.

Pharmacy From Page 27 ucts include standard hospital beds, patient lifts, power chairs, bedside commodes, bath benches, safety railing, wheelchairs, rollators, colostomy equipment, bath chairs, elevated toilet seats, bedside commodes, bath transfer benches, straight and quad

canes, braces and reachers.

One specialty product the apothecary gets a lot of requests for are diabetic shoes.

“We take a mold of their feet,” Glow said. “It takes a couple weeks for the shoe to be made from the mold.”

Medicare requires that the staff at Professional Apothecary give their customers a survey, and they

always receive positive responses about being a sort of medical one-stop-shop “We get great feedback,” Smith said. “It’s convenient because you can get your equipment here and prescription medication here.”

For more information about Professional Apothecary and it’s medical equipment services, call 256-362-5594.

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Reduce prescription medication costs

David Atchison/The Daily Home

Dr. Heidepriem examines the leg James Truss of Cropwell was forced to have amputated a month ago. Truss is a diabetic. Nurse Sharon White assists.

From Page 28

Most of Heidepriem’s patients are referrals from other doctors when patients experience health issues associated with restrictive blood flow.

A patient may have a wound that won’t heal or a sore that just shows up and won’t heal.

“That’s when we start investigating and finding out the problem,” Heidepriem said. “It’s not just limited to arteries, but veins, too. Bad veins can lead to swelling and sores as well.”

Many of his patients are diabetics, and he warns that any sore on the foot, ankle or leg areas need immediate attention.

Heidepriem said it is also important for diabetics to protect their feet and to regularly consult a podiatrist for proper foot care.

He said diabetics need to wear proper shoes and keep their feet warm during the winter.

Heidepriem is one of five doctors at the new St. Vincent’s St. Clair Advanced Wound Center,

which is an outpatient program that focuses on chronic and non-healing wounds.

The Advanced Wound Center opened in August in the new Physicians Plaza, 7067 Veterans Parkway,

often rise in price in the months before they face generic competition. Such was the findings of a 2011 study from the AARP Public Policy Institute that examined the 217 brand name drugs most commonly used by people in Medicare.

Prices of drugs facing generic competition in 2010 rose by an average of nearly 14 percent in 2009, an increase that was nearly twice the amount of all other drugs. So while drugs might be more affordable once they can be purchased generically, consumers can expect brand name drug manufacturers to drastically

Suite 220.

increase their prices in the months prior to facing generic competition, as the manufacturers are, in a way, looking for one last big revenue score before their patents expire.

That’s a troublesome reality for anyone taking a brand name prescription, but especially so for older men and women living on fixed incomes. Though drug manufacturers aren’t likely to change their practices, there are still ways men and women can reduce prescription medication costs.

• Ask for generics. If there are generic alternaSee Costs, Page 30

Heidepriem also has two offices in Birmingham, and he performs all his surgical operations at St. Vincent’s Birmingham Hospital.

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For the millions of people who rely on prescription medications every day, the day when a drug faces generic competition is one many circle on their calendars. That’s because generic prescriptions are often significantly less expensive than brand name medications, and consumers are able to save substantial amounts of money once a brand name drug faces generic competition.

But many men and women currently taking a brand name prescription might be quick to point out that, while generic medications cost less, brand name prescriptions

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30 — THE DAILY HOME, Talladega and St. Clair counties, Ala., Wednesday, October 17, 2012

From Page 29 tives to brand name medications available, always ask a physician for those medications instead of their more expensive brand name counterparts.

Don’t just assume a physician will prescribe generics. Sometimes doctors prescribe brand name medications despite the availability of cheaper and equally effective generic medications.

• “Test drive” a drug first. Just because a doctor prescribes a drug doesn’t mean the patient will respond to that drug.

Many men and women find they are too sensitive to a given medication and stop taking it after just a few days. Unfortunately, they paid for a full prescription and cannot return the pills they don’t plan to use. Individuals who have a history of sensitivity to medications should “test drive” a drug first, ordering just a few pills or asking a physician for samples to see how well the body handles them.

This won’t necessarily matter for people with flat-dollar copayments (you will essentially have to pay two copayments if the drug proves effective), but those without such a plan can save themselves some money if medication does not work out.

• Buy in bulk. Men and women who have been taking a certain medication for a long time and expect to keep taking it might want to consider buying the medicine in bulk. This can save money; just make sure pills purchased won’t surpass their expiration date before you take them.

On a similar note, men and women taking medications for two different conditions might also be able to take just one medication that treats both conditions.

For instance, some blood pressure medications have proven effective at treating other conditions as well. But don’t experiment on your own.

Consult your physician about your medications and ask if any of them can be used to effectively serve double-duty and save you money.

• Look for programs that offer relief. There are programs that offer some relief with regards to paying for prescription medications. Discuss such plans with a physician to determine your eligibility, which might be determined by your age or current prescriptions.

When you become the parent of your parent Medical advancements have enabled people to live longer. Though everyone wants to live longer, some people outlive their ability to care for themselves. In such instances, family members must make a decision regarding how best to care for an elderly relative.

According to “Aging in Place in America,” a commissioned study by Clarity(R) and the EAR Foundation, 63 percent of Baby Boomers are actively involved in providing some kind of help or assistance to their elderly parents. Whether this is due to the rising cost of elder care or simply a feeling of obligation on the part of the child, many middleaged men and women are responsible for caring for aging parents and young

children.

The emotions that might result from caring for an aging parent are often mixed. Some people are happy to do their part to help make life a little easier for a person who devoted so much of his or her energy to raising them.

Others in the sandwich generation can feel like this is a burden or guilty that they’re not doing enough for a parent.

Signs an elder needs help When an older relative stops driving, this is often indicative that he or she needs assistance with daily

living. There also may be signs that support and care is needed, such as if the house seems untidy, if he or she is having trouble maintaining personal hygiene, if the parent is getting hurt attempting to do things around the house or if he or she seems malnourished due to the inability to cook meals. Limited mobility or loss of mental faculties also may be indicative that it is time for a loved one to receive care.

Questions to ask Although taking on the care of an aging parent

may seem like the best idea possible, particularly for a senior who is very afraid of losing his or her independence, it may not always be in either party’s best interest. Before anyone determines what will be done to help a relative, it’s best to answer a few questions as straightforwardly as possible.

• What type of care does my parent need?

• How soon into the future is that type of care bound to change?

• Can this care be handled by someone who See Parents, Page 31

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• Inquire about combination medications.

Sometimes medications used to treat the same con-

dition can be purchased as combination pills. This will only require one prescription instead of two.

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Costs

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THE DAILY HOME, Talladega and St. Clair counties, Ala., Wednesday, October 17, 2012 — 31

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Safeguarding a home for an elderly relative

While boomerang kids might get the most publicity, another trend has also been steadily growing.

According to the Pew Research Center, 20 percent of individuals age 65 and older lived in a multigenerational household in 2008. That marked a 3 percent increase from 1990.

While there’s no single reason why more and more elderly residents are

moving in with their adult children, the still-struggling economy has likely played a significant role.

Elderly men and women who lost retirement savings as the market tumbled can no longer afford the costly expense of an assisted living facility, causing many of those people to move back in with their children.

For adult children welcoming a parent or an inlaw into their home, a common priority is to ensure the home is safe for an elderly resident. Some safety measures might be easier to plan than others, but the following guidelines should help adults prepare their homes for the arrival of an elderly housemate.

Reduce Risk of Injury in the Bathroom Perhaps no room can be

Parents From Page 30 comes into the house, such as a visiting nurse?

• Will my parent feel comfortable with an outside person helping with day-to-day care?

• What are my parent’s limitations?

• Am Icapable of handling this on my own?

• Can I afford an adequate care facility?

• What are my local facility options?

• Will this type of care affect my own personal well-being?

• Can Ihandle this emotionally and physically?

Any person facing the prospect of caring for an aging parent can realize that there is help available, as well as many different people who can help guide a decision. The first resource is to ask siblings, aunts, uncles, and cousins to weigh in on the situation to help the family come to a consensus.

There are also social workers who specialize in this sort of thing, as well as financial consultants who can spell out the pros and cons of different types of care and help determine the most affordable option. This can also go a long way toward helping determine the course of action.

The burden of caring for a parent can take a physical and mental toll on a person. Knowing there is a support circle available can ease one’s mind and enable caregivers to make rational decisions that are in everyone’s best interest.

Caring for a loved one who can no longer care for him- or herself is something that many Baby Boomers are facing on a daily basis. Although it may be a touchy subject, it is worth exploring what you will do before the situation becomes urgent.

more difficult or seniors to navigate than the bathroom. Wet tiled floors can greatly increase the risk of falling, so men and women should make sure to have bathroom rugs that are slipresistant. Slip-resistant rugs typically have a rubber bottom and won’t move even if the floor is wet.

Another step to secure the bathroom is to install grab bars on the walls, including in the bathtub and next to the toilet. Also, make sure the towel bars are secure, as seniors might grab onto towel bars if they feel they are about to fall or need to regain their balance.

As for the bathtub, be sure to place a non-skid mat or strips on the standing area. This can help secure arguably the riskiest part of a home not just

for elderly residents but all inhabitants of a home.

According to the National Safety Council, most falls in the home occur in the bathroom. Securing a slippery tub with non-skid mats or strips can greatly reduce the risk of a fall.

light switches are, at least not immediately. So keep the house at least partially illuminated overnight in case a senior housemate must wake up to use the restroom or get a glass of water in the middle of the night.

Keep the Home Illuminated Understandably, many homeowners look to save money around the house, and turning off the lights at night is both common and financially savvy. However, when a home has an elderly resident, it’s best to ensure the home is at least partially illuminated. Nightlights should be used in hallways and along the staircase as well as in the bathroom and the kitchen. Elderly residents likely won’t be familiar with where the

Clear Out the Clutter A cluttered home is a fire hazard regardless of whom is living inside.

However, a cluttered home is also a considerable safety risk for seniors. When preparing a home for an elderly resident, be sure the bedroom is not overcrowded. Make certain there is a clear path in which elderly residents can walk around the bed.

Clutter can also collect in the living room. Ideally, elderly residents should have a clear path on which

to walk from room to room.

Make sure cords from the entertainment system are bundled and not lying open in the floor. In addition, magazine or newspaper baskets should be moved away from where residents will be walking.

Clutter can also collect outside the home, particularly in homes with young children. Explain to kids that their toys need to be put away and kept off of walkways to help Grandma and Grandpa avoid injury.

Homeowners who love to work around the house should also clean their work areas thoroughly and put everything away before calling it a day.

The above are just a few of the many steps homeowners can take to make their homes safer for elderly guests.

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Since the economy began to slip, a notable and often newsworthy trend reported on across the country was the growing number of “boomerang” kids. After a brief period living on their own, boomerang kids return to live with their parents, mimicking an actual boomerang that returns to where it started after a brief period away.

32 — THE DAILY HOME, Talladega and St. Clair counties, Ala., Wednesday, October 17, 2012

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