Salute to Seniors
INSiDE THE SECTiON
Forgetful? Apps and games can help improve your memory. Page 3. Here’s help in understanding how your 401K works. Page 4. You have free time in retirement. Put it to good use and get politically active. Page 5.
Both men and women can use these tips on caring for their skin as they age. Page 7. Do you have a timeline for retirement? Here’s one to follow. (Read this especially if you’re young.) Page 8.
The Herald ■ YO U R C O M M U N I T Y N E W S PA P E R S I N C E 1 8 9 5 DUBOISCOUNTYHERALD.COM
DUBOIS COUNTY, INDIANA
FRIDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2017 SECTION B
“Sit back and enjoy the flight.” That’s difficult, but you can make plane travel more comfortable. Page 11. Enrolling in Medicare can be complicated. Here are a few things you need to know. Page 12.
PAGE 2 ■ SENIOR SALUTE
THE HERALD ■ FRIDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2017
Getting SS benefits while living overseas By TOM MARGENAU Creators.com Ever since the presidential election, I’ve probably received 50 emails from readers asking me what would happen to their Social Security benefits if they left the country. A couple people even wondered what would happen if they move overseas and renounce their U.S. citizenship! I’m not going to comment on their reasons for wanting to leave. (I get in trouble with readers when I reveal my political leanings.) And so, as Sgt. Joe Friday used to say on the old “Dragnet” TV series, “Just the facts.” If you are a U.S. citizen, the answer is pretty simple. Your Social Security check can be sent just about any place in the world. The only places where Social Security checks can’t be sent are North Korea, Cuba, and many of the former Soviet republics like Belarus, Azerbaijan, Ukraine, and all those “-stan” countries (Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, etc.) But in all my years of dealing with Social Security issues, I never met anyone who wanted to move to those places. So again, almost no matter where a U.S. citizen moves to, his or her Social Security check will follow. I am sure the folks who threatened to renounce their citizenship once leaving the country were just blowing off some steam. But I will say that the rules about getting Social Security benefits abroad get a lot messier for noncitizens. I’m not even going to begin to get into the nitty-gritty of those guidelines. But if you are interested, the Social Security Administration produces a booklet called, “Social Security — Your Payments While You are Outside the United States.” You can find a copy of that pamphlet at the Social Security website. At the homepage, click on “Publications.” Then find the “Topics” tab and you’ll find this pamphlet under the section called “Special Interest.” If you do move overseas, almost always you will arrange to have your benefits deposited into a bank, just as you would if you were living in the United States. It could be a bank in this country, or in many cases, a bank in the country to which you are moving. And those benefits are calculated in U.S. dollars. In other words, your benefit amount is not increased or decreased because of changes in international exchange rates. There are a couple other issues you should consider if you are moving overseas. If you are under age 66 and plan to work in a foreign country, your earnings and the amount of time you work may reduce your Social Security checks. The rules are more complicated than those for Social Security beneficiaries working in the U.S. They are explained in the above-mentioned pamphlet.
Living abroad during retirement takes planning when it comes to collecting Social Security benefits. PAUL BRENNAN CREATORS.COM
Also, any Medicare coverage you have will be totally useless overseas. (Medicare only covers you while you are in the United States.) So if you are leaving the country for good, you might as well drop the Part B Medicare plan. You usually pay at least $120 a month or so for Part B. So if you can’t use it, why pay for it? If you need to conduct any Social Security business while you are living overseas, you obviously won’t have any local Social Security office to visit. And you can’t call SSA’s telephone center. But you can visit your nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. They always have someone on staff who handles Social Security matters. Q: Beginning next year, my employer is going to send me to their headquarters offices, which are in South Korea. I will be living and working there for about the next four years. I am 55 years old, and I am concerned about the impact these next four years will have on my future Social Security benefits. My employer says it will be no problem. But I am still worried. Have you ever dealt with this kind of situation before? A: In our increasingly global economy, it is not uncommon for a citizen of one country to be working in another country. There are millions of foreign workers here in the U.S., just as there are millions of Americans working overseas. And you will soon be one of them. That is why our government has been setting up Social Security treaty agreements with other countries 25 of them so far. And,
Senior Savings
10% OFF SERVICES Special Savings, Just For You!
Expires 11/30/17 mastercarpet@insightbb.com
Other Services Provided: Carpet Cleaning • Tile & Grout Cleaning • Air Duct Cleaning • Upholstery & Drapery • Odor & Stain Removal • Scotchgard • Water Extraction • Small Carpet Repair
fortunately for you, South Korea is one of them. Normally, if you work overseas for an American company or, in some cases, a foreign company that is affiliated with an American company, you and your employer would have to pay Social Security taxes to both the United States and the foreign country on the same earnings. But if you work in one of the treaty agreement countries, your Social Security coverage will be assigned to either the United States or the foreign country, so you and your employer do not have to pay taxes to both. And the
good news for you is that the rules say if you have been sent by your employer in the United States to work in an agreement country for five years or less, you pay only U.S. Social Security tax and you are exempt from foreign tax. So you will continue to pay into our Social Security system and continue to build up your own Social Security retirement benefits just as though you were still living and working here in the U.S. I’m sure your employer purposely limited your overseas assignment to four years because if your foreign work detail is five years or more, then you generally
will pay Social Security taxes only to that country and will be exempt from paying U.S. Social Security taxes. And that could have messed up your future Social Security benefits. The rules about working overseas are WAY more complicated than I’ve explained in the last few paragraphs. That’s why the Social Security Administration produces a pamphlet that provides details of the treaty agreement for each of the 25 countries involved. And they have prepared on their website a fact sheet the gives general information about working overseas.
THE HERALD ■ FRIDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2017
SENIOR SALUTE ■ PAGE 3
Apps, games aid with memory and sharpness By CHELLE CORDERO Creators.com Forget it. You can no longer blame memory loss on getting older. So-called senior moments can also happen for people who are under extreme stress, suffering from a chronic disease, depressed, malnourished, inactive, overscheduled or just plain bored. If you are experiencing difficulty with memory, don’t let it get you down. There are lots of things you can do to help preserve your brainpower and keep your mind sharp. Whether it seems obvious or not, physical health plays a big role in mental health. Remaining physically active as you age will encourage oxygenated blood to reach the brain. Additionally, proper and balanced nutrition will provide natural chemicals and enzymes to keep your brain healthy. And proper sleep and rest will allow your brain to rest and function better. Beyond that, myriad other pursuits can help grease the cogs, energize the brain and help with the flow of thoughts, including reading, social activities, puzzles, strategy games, entertainment and creative pursuits. There’s no right or wrong choice. Think about your passions and skills, or perhaps passions and skills you’d like to explore. When you’ve chosen something, join a group or take a class. Free classes are often offered at libraries, senior centers and community colleges, not to mention online via webinars. Card games such as solitaire, puzzles such as sudoku and crosswords, word scrambles, memory games, and cryptograms exercise the mind. There’s a little something for everyone in that these activities are available in print and digital formats. Numerous computer cognitive brain exercises are available with or without access to the internet. Even the National Security Agency has lent an app to the mix: CryptoChallenge, which invites the user to crack a code. The app is free for download for iPhone and Android. Lumosity is a well-known brainteaser site run by Lumos Labs. A team of researchers and game designers creates challenging cognitive and neuropsychological programs for both online and mobile use. They also offer free programs for all ages worldwide in English, Spanish, French, German, Japanese, Korean and Portuguese. Fit Brains Trainer is a free brain-training app by Rosetta Stone Canada Inc. It’s downloadable from iTunes and offers tons of games targeting major areas of the brain: memory, speed of thinking, concentration, problemsolving, language and visual-spatial. The user finishes a task in each category every day, and the app keeps a progress record. Happify, another free app, of-
Are you getting more and more forgetful? Playing games can help increase your brainpower. PHOTO COURTESY OF DR. JOHANNES SOBOTTA CREATORS.COM
fers activities and games for stress and anxiety support. It has quizzes, polls and gratitude journals, which work on the basis of positive psychology to control stress and emotions. Stress and negative emotions affect memory and emotional and physical well-being. ReliefLink was designed to support and improve mental health, specifically to prevent suicide. In cases of extreme stress, the app helps by offering coping mechanisms and mindfulness and relaxation exercises. There is also a feature for listing medication and setting appointment reminders. If you are looking for a way to learn and remember telephone numbers, bank information, quotes and useful facts, take a look at Eidetic for iOS systems. This free app uses spaced repetition and built-in flashcards to help you memorize important information. Google terms like “brain games,” “cognitive exercises” and “memory builders” to find many more online sites and downloadable apps. Some of these apps are free, others have free trials or free limited use, and others have generally low prices to register or download. There may be some thought or memory loss with age, but keeping your brain busy will help to you keep the mobility, thought and independence that becomes very precious as you reach the golden years. If there is a concerning level of confusion or forgetfulness, it would be wise to consult your health care provider to make sure that there are no underlying health concerns, such as Alzheim-
enter, Inc. C e c n a r u s n I Patoka ncy LLC e g A r e g in s s James A. Ble 812-482-4584 2323 Newton St. Jasper
As your life changes, so do your insurance needs. Let us browse multiple companies to customize an insurance package just for you. • Medicare Supplements • Age 65 Plan G (Female $90.30/ Male $103.85) • Guaranteed Issue Life Insurance
S C O T B L E S S IN G E R
C H A D B L E S S IN G E R
scot@ p atokain suran ce.com 812-309-0365
chad@ p atokain suran ce.com 812-827-3813
er’s disease or dementia. It is a statistical fact that people who maintain a positive attitude
generally live longer and healthier lives. It’s never too early to begin exercising your brain. With
these apps and activities, you’ll be one step closer to feeling golden during your golden years.
RICHARD M. MOSS, M.D. EAR • NOSE • THROAT Board Certified • Otolaryngology • Head & Neck Surgery • Otologic Surgery Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery • Tonsillitis, Ear Infections, Tubes • Sinusitis, Deviated Septum, Nasal Allergies • Thyroid, Tumors of Throat & Neck • Moles, Lesions, Skin Cancers • Snoring & Sleep Disorders • Swallowing & Voice Disorders 721 West Thirteenth Street, Suite 208 • Dizziness, Vertigo, Meniere's Disease Medical Arts Building, Jasper, IN 47546 • Hearing Exams & Hearing Aids Satellite Office In Washington, IN • Acne - Facial Plastic Surgery
812-634-6666
The Legends at Autumn Creek II Located at 800 Reyling Drive – Jasper, Indiana
M AINTENANCE-FREE LIVING in an HOA COM M UNITY: Your H om eow ner’s A ssociation in this neighborhood offers these five reasons ...
✓ Trash Service,M ow ing,Fertilizing, Shrub Trim m ing and Tree Rem oval ✓ Collective M anagem ent ✓ Affordable Hom e Ow nership ✓ Sense of Com m unity ✓ Protected Property Values
All of this adds up to peace of mind and more time to enjoy life! Calltoday for details 812-482-5072 Todd:812-630-7792/ Al:812-630-4801 w w w.kerstienshom es.com 901 New ton Street • Jasper,IN
PAGE 4 ■ SENIOR SALUTE
THE HERALD ■ FRIDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2017
401(k) explained: Understanding retirement savings By CHELLE CORDERO Creators.com Saving toward retirement got easier in the early 1980s when employer-sponsored 401(k) retirement plans allowed tax-deferred funds to be set aside for an employee’s retirement. Social Security is rarely enough for seniors to exist on in retirement. A 401(k) can add vital additional income. Based on a 1978 Internal Revenue Code, a 401(k) allows a portion of earnings to be put in a special account. Sometimes employers will match the amount of the employee’s contribution. Employers who sponsor 401(k) retirement plans can benefit taxwise by contributing to an employee’s plan within set guidelines. For instance, an employee must be fully vested for a minimum time period of employment before being entitled to any employer-supplied funds in the account. There are various forms of retirement savings plans (traditional 401(k) plans, safe harbor 401(k) plans and SIMPLE 401(k) plans), an employer’s funds manager needs to make sure that each plan is in accordance with the specific rules in order to keep the tax-advantage. The general rules allow for payments from the retirement account to begin at the government recognized retirement age, but payments must begin no later than 70 1/2 years of age. Most 401(k) employee contributions are made from pre-taxed income which can substantially lower the yearly taxable income level; the Roth 401(k) donations are made after total income is taxed. When contributions are made from pretax income, taxes will have to be paid at the time of withdrawal at the current rate; however, the retiree’s income is usually lower than during the work years and can translate to a lower tax rate overall (tax rates may change in future years). Employees are not required to participate and contribute to a 401(k) plan, but it is a terrific opportunity to set aside money toward a substantial savings account.
TAXCREDITS.NET/CREATORS.COM
There is more than one type of 401(K) to help you save for retirement. The 401(k) plans grow from a combination of employee donations, employer-matched funds and compounded interest. Plan managers are professional investors who are used to market fluctuations and can invest your money in the market leaving you with a professionally managed and diversified portfolio. Most mutual fund plans cost a minimum to buy into, but with a 401(k), your predetermined contribution is made from each paycheck and builds each pay period. Employees can choose a set amount of contribution or a specific percentage of the wages earned. An investment in a 401(k) retirement savings plan is painless and automatic since the funds are deposited before you see them in your paycheck. Withdrawing funds before the recognized time could be subject to income tax and a 10-percent penalty. Although, depending on the specific plan and circumstanc-
es, exemptions for non-penalty withdrawals may be allowed for medical expenses, financial hardships, divorce, college tuition or death of the employee. An individ-
ual seeking an exemption needs to talk with the plan administrator about the plan’s provisions. If the employee changes jobs, the funds can be withdrawn with-
out penalty, as long as they are reinvested in another recognized retirement account no longer than 60 days; if the new investment isn’t made within those 60 days, both penalty and income tax will be applied. If your new employer doesn’t sponsor a retirement plan, you can roll your 401(k) funds over into an Individual Retirement Account. There are several different types of IRAs, including traditional IRAs, Roth IRAs, SEP IRAs and SIMPLE IRAs; each one has certain eligibility guidelines so speak with an investment counselor to make sure you are choosing the right plan for your needs. There are also instances where an employee can borrow against the balance in his retirement account and repay the amount with finance charges that may be credited as additional contributions to the fund balance. Depending on the plan’s requirements, taxes may be imposed on the amount borrowed. Loans and early withdrawal exemptions may apply to IRAs similar to those that apply to employer-sponsored plans. According to the United States Department of Labor, the majority of Americans spend at least 20 years in retirement. If your employer offers a 401(k) plan or if you are self-employed and need an IRA, those funds can help ensure a fiscally safe future.
H U N TIN G BU R G TR A N SIT SYSTE M Friendly,C ourteous P ublic Tra ns porta tion For A L L A ges *Bea u ty/Ba rb er Sh op
*Sh op p in g *H ea lth C a re A p p oin tm en ts
*Ba n k in g *V is it F a m ily & F rien d s *Socia l E n ga gem en ts
*E m p loym en t
*Sch ool *L ib ra ry *R ecrea tion
L etU sTa keYou There! M onda y-Frida y 8:30 a m - 4:00 pm $2.00 round trip • $1.00 one w a y • 50¢ a dditiona l s tops
A ir C onditioned & C lea n
R ide Tickets A va ila ble
Need straight facts about how to get set up with the right Medicare Supplement?
C A LL:812.634.2911 or 1.888.553.5771
S a fe,R elia ble Tra ns porta tion S tres s Free – L et U s W orry A bout the R oa d!
W heelcha ir A cces s ible
C a ll U s To R es erv e You r R id e
812-683-2211
No Bull
Since 1990
506 M a in Street, Ja sper, IN brentchanleyagency.com
THE HERALD ■ FRIDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2017
SENIOR SALUTE ■ PAGE 5
Make your voice heard: Political activism for seniors By TERESA IQBAL Creators.com The freedom of time, which comes along with retirement, can be both exciting and overwhelming as one sets off to determine just what to do with it. What seniors decide to do with their newfound time can be as little or largely impacting on others as they wish it to be. For those senior citizens who are looking for a particular important cause to invest their free time in, delving in to the world of political activism may prove to be both rewarding and inspiring. Fortunately, there are a number of ways by which seniors can easily become politically involved. Elections are chaotic and busy processes that require the help of many members of any given community. There are thousands of polls around the country which must be managed, so poll workers are always needed and appreciated around election time. Manning the polls may be long work with many positions requiring shifts that begin early in the morning and end late at night. For seniors who are fluent in any language besides English, they may find that their services can be considered to be highly in demand at the polls. For seniors who are bilingual, it’s recommended that they mention this fact when applying to become a poll worker so that their skills can be put to their best use in an area where there is a high rate of those particular language speakers. Bonus: many poll workers, while often technically considered volunteers, can expect to receive a small stipend for their services.
Senior citizens who stay involved in the political system can make a difference. FLICK CREATORS.COM
Consider contacting the county where you live (often the managing entity for elections) to inquire about becoming a poll worker for an upcoming election. Another option for seniors who wish to become politically active is to support a particular political party, candidate or cause by offering to volunteer to work at a phone bank. Phone banks are utilized by several groups focused on getting word out about a specific cause. They’re especially well known for being used by political candidates and groups to reach out to the community and potential voters. For seniors who are enthusiastic about a particular cause or candidate, participating in a phone
bank can offer an outlet for relaying that enthusiasm to others in their community for a number of purposes. For example, they may be used as fundraising tools to appeal to the public to assist in the given cause. They may also be used as an informational resource to the public to inform community members of the background information surrounding such a cause or candidate. The more passion that one has for their given cause, the easier the job will certainly prove to be. With age comes an abundance of earned wisdom. Why not choose to share such wisdom with others? There are a number of organizations that are continuously
searching for volunteers, mentors and helpers. There are so many different organizations that it would be difficult to not find one which can be used to reflect your political views. For example, if refugee settlement and aid is important to you, seek out organizations which strive to help refugees settle in their new country and cope with their recently changed lives, such as the American Refugee Committee. If women’s rights are an important concern of yours, then perhaps consider seeking out an organization that reflects such views where your knowledge, skills or passion can be put to good use, such as with the League of Women Voters.
For seniors wishing to share their gained wisdom with their communities in a different capacity, there is arguably no greater direct impact that they can have on a community than running for office themselves. There is a number of local leadership positions that may become available at any time and which may appeal to just about anyone. For example city council and school board positions can be realistically obtained by even the average citizen. This holds especially true when it comes to seniors, who may have a large amount to offer to the public with several years of experience and wisdom often behind them.
W here Ex perienc e, Q u a lity a nd Pers o na l Attentio n C rea te E xceptiona l S m iles!
D r. K enneth R . T routm an,D D S,F A G D Doctor of Dental Surgery
D r. H aviland A yers,D M D Doctor of Dental Medicine
LetOu rTea m Serve Yo u rD enta l N eed s ... • M odern,S tate-of-the-A rt Technology • H ighly Trained,Experienced S taff
• D entalIm plant S urgery & R estoration • C ER EC S ingle A ppointm ent C row ns
2 0 2 E. 17th Street, Hu ntingb u rg, IN (8 12 ) 6 8 3 -2 0 0 6
• Low -R adiation D igitalR adiographs • Laser D entistry
• O ffering A llC osm etic and G eneral D entistry S ervices
V is itO u rW eb s ite w w w .tro u tm a nfa m ilyd entis try.c o m
PAGE 6 ■ SENIOR SALUTE
THE HERALD ■ FRIDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2017
Live in the now, after all, age is only a number By DOUG MAYBERRY Creators.com Q: Why do some individuals appear to be old at 32 while some 72-year-olds appear younger? I find it difficult to understand. Regardless of why, what is the secret of feeling younger and not looking older than my actual age? Is it too late for me to change? A: No. Because you have awakened to the idea your life could be happier if you learned to be more positive. Change is always possible, regardless of age! Make a list of achievable goals. Think it out. Do you prefer living in the future or the past? Are you living in your now? Every individual ages differently. Accepting what has occurred in your past and what may happen in your future is a major
challenge. As we age, we do not change as much as we do from 30 to 40, nor as we do from 55 to 75. We all age at different rates. Our hearing begins to go in our 30s and our muscular strength and reproductive powers pass our peak. Our bonus is that our brain continues to grow, often well into our 80s and even later. Take an interest in our world and learn at least one new thing every day. Don’t hit the skids because of your birthdays. For example, poet Stanley Kunitz was named U.S. poet laureate at age 95. As we gain knowledge and brainpower, we are able to enhance our ability to survive and to love our families, and to maintain better health, welfare, independence and happiness! There are always obstacles in life, but you will feel and look younger if you keep positive and
adjust! Q: My grandson just turned 10, and I want to be able to talk to him directly, rather than having his parents mediate. Especially as I’m getting older, I’d like to have a closer bond with him while I’m still around. Writing letters to him recently, I found out that his school no longer teaches cursive to its students. He likes email and texting better, but I don’t feel comfortable with those. How can I bridge the
New life for an old eyeglasses case By MARY HUNT Creators.com Recently, I dropped off several out-of-prescription eyeglasses at a facility that collects old eyeglasses for medical missions. With the cost of glasses equaling a year’s salary in some countries, donated eyeglasses are the best hope for bringing sight to many visually impaired people who can simply not afford the cost. The attendant kindly asked, however, that I not leave the cases. My first thought was to toss them into the trash on the way out and just be done with it. But it didn’t feel right. There just had to be a way to give new life to these sturdy, protective cases. Some quick research turned up these clever ideas: ■■ Electronic accessories. An eyeglass case is the perfect size for headphones or a charging cord for the typical mobile device. No more tangled mess. ■■ Sewing kit. Travel-size threads, scissors, needles, pins and so on fit easily inside one of these cases. Gluing a couple of magnets in the lid helps to keep sharp items in place so they’re handy. ■■ Toiletries. Because these cases have hard sides, they’re ideal for organizing makeup items and small toiletries — the kind of emergency items we like to carry with us. Notably, a full-size bottle of nail polish fits in one of these cases perfectly, which, as one who has experienced the heartbreak of a bottle of polish emptying itself inside my purse, makes me very happy. A hard-shell eyeglasses case holds a toothbrush, dental floss and small tube of toothpaste. ■■ Jewelry case. The last place you want that necklace, those earrings or other delicate jewelry item to land up is in the bottom of your purse or backpack. Perhaps you know that sinking of feeling of digging around and finding only one of the pair. Designating an old eyeglasses case as your portable jewelry case will put an end to that disaster — and keep your items exactly where you can find them at all times. ■■ First-aid kit. Band-Aids, ointments, tweezers and other small items needed for rending first aid can fit into one of the cases. Now everything is together and easily accessible. ■■ Emergency art supplies. Filling one of these cases with stick-
ers, crayons and a pad of mini Post-its will come back to bless you the day you’re stuck in a line or a waiting room with a child. ■■ Contact lens kit. One of these cases will hold a spare pair of lenses as well as a lens case and wetting solution. And it will keep all of that safe, sanitary and able to be found quickly when needed. ■■ Coin case. You know what I find really annoying? Loose change rolling around in the bottom of my bag. What a great idea to use an eyeglasses case as a coin holder.
generation gap? A: One of the most important things in any relationship is compromise, which means that both you and your grandson will have to step a little out of your comfort zones. As long as you want to have a bond, you need to recognize the effort it will take -- but also recognize the reward for your work at it. It sounds like both of you have limitations on what you can use and what you’re familiar with: He can’t write cursive and isn’t used
to letters, and you are uncomfortable with technology and like writing traditional letters. You need to find something that works. Phone calls may be a good intermediate option, but hearing can always be an issue. Plus, letters make great mementos. You might want to compromise by writing to him in print, and perhaps (if he’s better at typing that writing) he could type his replies and mail them to you. Both of you may have to give a little, but you will always treasure your relationship.
Get the quality coverage and service you deserve with an insurance plan customized to meet your needs. Contact Kelley at Ferdinand Farmers Insurance Agency for a free, no obligation quote for your health, life and medicare products.
Kelley Schipp
Health • Life • Medicare Products To schedule an appointment with Kelley, call 812-367-1413. www.ferdinandfarmersinsurance.com 1405 Main Street P.O. Box 263 Ferdinand, IN 47532
RANDALL NORRIS, MD – BRIAN BLESSINGER, MD – BRIAN WOEBKENBERG, MD
TOTAL KNEE REPLACEMENT,
Also known as total knee arthroplasty, (the surgical repair of a joint). When the articular cartilage of the knee becomes damaged or worn, it becomes painful and the knee is hard to move. Instead of sliding over each other, the bones rub and crush together. Knee Replacement surgery restores the weight-bearing surface of a damaged, worn or diseased knee joint. The aim is to remove pain and restore mobility.
BACK PAIN affects a large number of
Americans every year and the number continues to grow. Symptoms can be sharp and shooting, or a dull ache in the lower back or even down into the hips and legs. Some people may even have numbness and tingling in their legs. Finding the cause of these symptoms can be a challenge and may require the expertise of a specialist who can provide both operative and non-operative treatment alternatives. Call 812-634-1211 to schedule an appointment and start finding solutions to your back problems.
ANTERIOR TOTAL HIP REPLACEMENT, is a major advancement and is a tissuesparing alternative to traditional hip replacement surgery. It provides the potential for a less painful and faster recovery, smaller and more cosmetic incision, less muscle trauma, lower risk of dislocation and more accurate restoration of leg length. The technique allows the surgeon to work between the patient’s muscles and tissues without detaching them – sparing the tissue from trauma and providing a more rapid recovery.
1900 Saint Charles Street • Jasper, IN • 812.634.1211 www.norrisblessinger.com
THE HERALD ■ FRIDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2017
SENIOR SALUTE ■ PAGE 7
Skin care tips beneficial for older men, women By KRISTEN CASTILLO Creators.com For most men and women, looking and feeling great is a priority at every age. Still, after age 50, many notice their skin is aging. “If you start caring for your skin at a young age, however, you can delay the aging process by many years,” says board-certified dermatologist Dr. Alan J. Parks, founder of DermWarehouse, who suggests older clients use eye cream, smoothing serum with retinols and a neck firming cream, as well as a vitamin C brightening serum. “These products will help diminish fine lines and wrinkles and slow the process for further ones to develop,” says Dr. Parks, noting adults over 50 may consider using injectables, such as Botox for lines in the forehead and Juvederm for smile lines. Dr. Julius Few, a plastic surgeon and founder of The Few Institute, says for patients in their 50s, “this decade is all about prevention and correction.” He says it’s not too late to start a Retinol regimen, which can be applied nightly on the full face and neck each night “to speed cellular turnover that gets sluggish with age.” As you get older, your skin’s needs may change, which just means you need to adapt new skin care regimens and routines. “Aging is inevitable,” says board certified dermatologist, Dr. Fayne L. Frey. “It occurs gradually, in every member of a species. It is irreversible. To date, science has yet to find a single ingredient that reverses or slows the aging process.” Check your skin regularly for changes, including bleeding moles, sores that don’t heal and new growths. The National Institute on Aging urges everyone, including seniors, to use sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher and to stay out of the summer sun during the peak hours of 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. They warn that skin damage is possible in cloudy weather and when you’re in the water. Avoid tanning beds, sunbathing and other exposure to harsh rays. The American Academy of Dermatology, says harmful UV rays “can accelerate aging, causing wrinkles, age spots, a blotchy complexion and even skin cancer.” “Using a mild soap-free cleanser is preferred over a harsh soap to minimize drying out the skin,” says Dr. Frey. The National Institute on Aging suggests bathing in warm water, instead of hot water, which can dry out your skin. They caution to not use bath oil when bathing since it can make the tub slippery and could be a potential fall hazard. Use cleansers and other skin products as directed. According to AAD, overusing products can be damaging to skin, resulting in clogged pores, blotchy skin and irritation. They suggest limiting the number of products used, too, especially anti-aging items, which can be irritating. AAD also warns against using products that burn or sting. The only exception? Products prescribed by your dermatologist. Be patient, too, because many skin creams and treatments can take six weeks or even three months to work. Dry and often itchy skin is a common concern as you age. During aging, the top layer of skin, which maintains water content, thins.
Dry skin is a common concern as you age. Use a moisturizer to keep skin smooth. THE AMERICAN ACADEMY OF DERMATOLOGY CREATORS.COM
“The need to moisturize increases as we age to avoid flaky dry skin,” says Dr. Frey. Stick to a consistent daily routine of using creams or lotions to
M ike Blum e,AAM S ® Fin an cial A dviso r 223 W est 10th Street A Ferdin an d, IN 47532
Lo cated n ext to the Ferdy Flyer
812-367-0692
minimize dryness, use a humidifier at home to keep moisture in the air and don’t be fooled by over-the-counter skin care moisturizers that claim they’re made
Craig Hannem an Fin an cial A dviso r 416 Jack so n Street, Jasper, IN 47546 812-481-1035
Rick Kurzendoerfer Fin an cial A dviso r 1208 N Newto n Street, Jasper, IN 47546 812-482-5020
for aging skin. “Just like ‘night’ creams, that don’t know the time of day, skin care products marketed for ‘mature’ skin or ‘elderly’ skin is
Andrea M . Lichlyter Fin an cial A dviso r 813 Third A ven u e Jasper, IN 47546 812-634-6010
nothing more than a marketing tool,” says Dr. Frey. “A quality therapeutic moisturizer is beneficial and preferred on skin of any age.”
Rick Pflanz Fin an cial A dviso r Ste 100, 431 E. 4th Street Hu n tin gbu rg, IN 47542 812-683-4370
N icholas E. Schnarr,AAM S ® Fin an cial A dviso r Germ an to wn Sho ppin g Cen ter Jasper, IN 47546 Lo cated n ext to Gran dy’s
812-482-3190
Callor visit any of our 8 financialadvisors in the Dubois County area. To find an Edward Jones office near you,call1-800-ED-JONES or visit
Dillon Seiler Fin an cial A dviso r 471 US 231 S, Su ite 1 Jasper, IN 47546 812-556-0268
TJ Xanders Fin an cial A dviso r 27 N K rin gle P lace San ta Clau s, IN 47579 812-937-7001
PAGE 8 ■ SENIOR SALUTE
THE HERALD ■ FRIDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2017
Walk me through it: Timeline for retirement By KRISTEN CASTILLO Creators.com When is the ideal time to start saving for retirement? As soon you start working. “The earlier you start to save for the retirement the better,” says Jamie Hopkins, professor of retirement planning at The American College of Financial Services. How much to save is a personal choice, too, making it tough to calculate across the board. “One of the biggest misconceptions about retirement planning is that there is a magic savings number that you can get to and be prepared for retirement,” says Hopkins, noting as long as individuals start saving early enough, “you don’t need to save more than 15 to 18 percent of your salary each year, but even that can be challenging. “The key here is start early, invest heavily in growth assets like equities and take advantage of tax-advantaged savings vehicles like 401(k)s and IRAs.” No surprises “If you plan through your life, you won’t be in for a surprises at retirement,” says Robert J. Pyle, a Certified Financial Planner with Diversified Asset Management Inc. By age 35, he says, individuals should have saved one time their salary. By age 45, they should have saved 3.75 times their salary; by 55, they should have saved 7.5 times their salary. “By age 65, you should have saved 10 times your salary,” Pyle says, detailing, “If you are making $100,000 at age 65 and you have saved one million, then you can safely withdraw four percent or $40,000, which is 40 percent of your pre-retirement salary.” Don’t wait The longer a person waits to save for retirement the “harder it becomes to meet your savings goals,” says Hopkins. For example, he says if you only have 20 years to save, you’ll want to save 30 percent of your yearly income in an 80 percent stock, 20 percent bonds mix to replace 50 percent of your income in retirement. Comparatively, if you had 40 years to save, such as a 25-year-old planning to retire at 65, with that
Retirement planning is a lifelong process. UNSPLASH CREATORS.COM
80-20 mix, you’d only have to save between 6 and 8 percent of your income to replace 50 percent in retirement. Will You Be Ready? Financial adviser Dan Cunningham, founder of One Day In July, shares this retirement planning timeline: ■■ Age 18. “Your best investment is yourself,” he says. “Work on your skills.” ■■ Age 22. This is the time to contribute the maximum to your 401(k) or 403(b) plan at work and to invest in your Roth or IRA outside of work. It’s also when you should “learn to control personal spending,” says Cunningham. “Money saved now will compound for 60 years or so.” Avoid actively managed mutual funds, he advises. Now is your chance to “learn the importance of index-fund investing and how to stay away from high financial fees.” ■■ Age 30. Look at your savings and realize you’ll be 40 before you know it. “The money you save before age 40 is roughly equal to all you will save, for the rest of your life, after age 40, in terms of com-
pounding returns,” says Cunningham. “You have one decade left.” Watch your health, too, cautions Cunningham. “Keep yourself in good physical shape; it will help reduce your health care bills later, or
push them back in time,” he says. “Health care is going to be one of your enormous expenses.” ■ ■ Age 62. Get out your calculator. Cunningham says this is when you should figure out the optimal time to sign up for
Social Security. ■■ Age 70. Even though you’re retired, control your spending. “You may well live until your 90s,” says Cunningham. “Save your money to give yourself a huge 100th birthday party.”
Save Dough On Our Rolls! Step into our show room and discover a huge selection of:
• Ca rpe t • Tile • L a m in a te • V in yl • Ha rd w ood FREE FIN A N CIN G on Qua lifie d Purc h a s e s !
Ex c ellentPric es Fo rAny B u d get. Ex pertIns ta lla tio n Ava ila b le. N ew Ho m e D is c o u nts .
CARPET W AREHOUSE “QUALITY YOU CAN STAND ON”
NEW HOURS: Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri 8am-5pm; Wed 8am-6pm; Sat. 9am-1pm
www.cptwarehouse.com
650 Woodlawn Dr., Jasper
812-482-5692
from idea to ideal ... D esign
Contact us today for a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your project needs and vision for your home. We’re here to take care of every detail, from concept to completion for responsive service you can count on through every phase.
B uild
Rem odel
Restore
Let...
Build your Retirement Home! 2296 M illStreet • Jasper,IN 812-482-5869 w w w .streicherconstruction.com
THE HERALD ■ FRIDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2017
SENIOR SALUTE ■ PAGE 9
Young people and their elders both benefit from intergenerational friendships. NEGATIVESPACE. COM CREATORS.COM
Relationships between children, elders priceless By JEANELLE D. HORCASITAS Creators.com Ever since I was a little girl, I have appreciated time spent with my elders and the wisdom that they bestowed upon me. My grandmother taught me the importance of being involved in the community and the value of building relationships with those with more life experience than me. During school breaks, I accompanied her to the senior living facility near our home, and we visited with the residents. Whether it was playing a game of bingo, reading poetry or simply chatting about life in general, I always had an incredible time and made new friends. Some educational institutions now recognize the importance of the lessons that my grandmother instilled in me as a child. These schools have partnered with senior living facilities and paired students with elders. The advantages of bridging the gap between the younger and the older generations are truly immeasurable and life-changing. Here are just a few examples. Reading, language skills The older a person is the longer her list of beloved books. It’s great to get book recommendations from your elders. Reading together is even better. Younger children can benefit from reading with their elders, because they can practice and be given a helpful
hand if something difficult comes along. Being a pen pal with an elderly friend is another great way to improve your language skills. You can swap stories about the past, present or future, creating a beautiful new friendship and story together in the process. One of my favorite programs is the Speaking Exchange project. This project virtually connects students in Brazil with senior citizens in the U.S. over video chat to practice their English skills. The power of technology and the internet make possible this amazing opportunity to develop relationships across the globe. Tech-savvier elders Despite the opportunities technology offers, computers and smartphones can be quite frustrating to our elders, many of whom have never used these types of devices before. Younger generations have grown up using these technologies, so it’s second nature to them. Elders can learn a thing or two from children and young adults when it comes to computers and smartphones. Basic skills kids can teach their elders include creating an email account, sending emails and practicing typing and texting skills. Once they’ve gained these skills, they can then be exposed to the wealth of information that the internet provides — but more importantly, they can connect with family and friends
It's A Busy World ...
• Medicare Supplements • Medicare Advantage Slow Down • Prescription Drug Long Enough Plans to • Long Term Care Explore Your Options • Short Term Care • Life Insurance for ... Tackling understanding your insurance options is quite a task. Why go it alone when we can help you.
Call today for a free consultation and see how easy we can make this for you.
Phyllis : 8 12 -3 2 6 -2 4 10 K elly: 8 12 -3 8 9 -13 6 8
Phyllis R eynolds
Kelly G . W isem an
on different social media sites. Overall, helping our elders become savvier with technology is beneficial not only because it helps them keep up with these changing times but also because it connects them to others in ways that seemed impossible in their days. New friendships The great thing about friend-
ship is that it comes in all shapes sizes. It’s not unconventional for young people to befriend elders. In fact, it is one of the sweetest types of friendships to have. One of my favorite examples is that of 4-year-old Norah Wood and 82-year-old Dan Peterson. The two met in a grocery, and Norah decided she wanted to include the man in their family activities. Peterson, who had been in a deep
depression since losing his wife, was touched. Despite their large age gap, they found friendship in each other. This young girl helped a heartbroken elderly man to begin to heal. There are many practical advantages to helping out at senior living facilities and speaking with elders, but the simple enjoyment of one another’s company is perhaps the best perk of all.
SERVING SENIORS OVER 35 YEARS!
A FFO R D A B L E IN D E P E N D E N T SE N IO R L IV IN G • E ligibility is 62 yea rs o f a ge o r o lder • Indo o r L a u ndry Fa cility, L o bbies & M a ilro o m • Schedu led So cia lG a therings • E m ergency P u llC o rds • D ish,D irecTV a nd C a ble A
• C o nveniently L o ca ted N extto Ja sper M a no r Sho pping C enter • Indo o r R ecrea tio n A rea • E leva to r A ccessible Fo r A ll3 Flo o rs! • FR E E To u r & B ro chu re re A va ila ble fo r TV V iew ing
TTY (8 0 0 ) 74 3 -3 3 3 3
6 6 0 R u m b a c h Avenu e, Ja s per, IN 4 75 4 6 -3 5 15 , 8 12 -4 8 2 -5 9 13
PAGE 10 ■ SENIOR SALUTE
THE HERALD ■ FRIDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2017
Where’s the car? GPS trackers can ease mind By CHELLE CORDERO Creators.com There are several reasons you would want to know the whereabouts of your car. Luckily, there are many models of automotive GPS technology that make monitoring your car relatively simple and often not terribly expensive. What are the advantages of tracking your car’s performance and location? For parents of new drivers, you can learn about your teen’s driving habits, the car’s location or if there is a problem with the automobile. Some GPS devices will send a daily record listing speed, braking habits, location (past and current) and where the car was stopped with or without the engine running. Some even monitor activities like texting while driving. Getting information regarding your teen’s driving performance can help to quell a lot of normal parental angst. Either the results will confirm good driving skills, or they will show a need for remedial driving lessons. Are you worried that your elderly parent is becoming forgetful and inattentive or is having trouble seeing at night? Trackers can tell you what hours of the day the car is being driven as well
JAN MACAROL/CREATORS.COM
GPS trackers can be helpful for drivers of all ages. as the location. If mom and dad get confused about where they are headed, knowing where they stopped last makes them easier to find safely and quickly. Of course, unlike your underage child driving a car on your insurance policy,
mom and dad have the right to say yes or no to your installing a tracking device in the vehicle. If you have hired caretakers for older parents, an au pair for your children, a housekeeper or any other service where your car
might be used, a GPS tracker will monitor the use of your vehicle and help ensure that family members are being properly cared for. Have you experienced the dread of walking out to where you’d thought you had parked
your car only to find it missing? Most of the time, you’d merely forgotten where you parked. However, if someone had stolen your car (or borrowed it without permission), then having a tracking system would make it easier to recover. Another advantage to installing an automotive tracker in your vehicle is in the event of an accident. If you or the driver cannot make a phone call for help, rescue services can still find you. Many GPS devices send automatic alerts in the event of an air bag deployment or rollover. Car trackers are available for every budget. Prices start at around $25 and can go up to a few hundred dollars, depending on the included features. Do you want something that will simply tell you your car’s location or do you want navigation services included? How about engine diagnostics? These extras are what raise the cost. The GPS systems generally report the findings to a central office, which may or may not send that information on to you. Sometimes they require a subscription price or one-time fee. Other systems can communicate with apps on your phone or computer and will allow you to see locations on a remote map.
Social Security recipients to get small raise next year By STEPHEN OHLEMACHER Associated Press WASHINGTON — Millions of Social Security recipients and other retirees can expect another small increase in benefits next year. Preliminary figures suggest that the annual increase will be around 2 percent, which would mean an extra $25 a month for the average beneficiary. The Social Security Administration was scheduled to announce the cost-of-living adjustment today. The annual increase hasn’t topped 2 percent since 2012. The COLA affects benefits for more than 70 million U.S. residents, including Social Security recipients, disabled veterans and federal retirees — about one in five Americans. The average monthly Social Security payment is $1,258, or about $15,000 a year. By law, the cost-of-living adjustment, or COLA, is based on
a broad measure of consumer prices generated by the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Advocates for seniors claim the inflation index doesn’t accurately capture rising prices faced by seniors, especially for health care. Some conservatives argue that the inflation index is too generous because when prices go up, people change their buying habits and buy cheaper alternatives. Consumer prices went up only slightly in the past year despite a recent spike in gasoline prices after hurricanes slowed oil production in the Gulf Coast, said Max Gulker, senior research fellow at the American Institute for Economic Research. Gulker projects the COLA will be between 1.7 percent and 2.1 percent. “For the most part, there was a decline in energy prices for a lot of the year,” Gulker said. “But at the end of the year we saw that up-
tick in gas from the hurricanes.” Congress enacted automatic annual increases for Social Security in 1975. Presidents often get blamed when increases are small or zero, but President Don-
ald Trump has no power to boost the increase, unless he persuades Congress to change the law. In 2009, President Barack Obama persuaded Congress to approve one-time payments of
$250 to Social Security recipients as part an economic stimulus package. Over the past eight years, the COLA has averaged just above 1 percent.
Chron ic Sin u s itis ➢ ➢ ➢ ➢ ➢ ➢
Hea d a che Fa cia l pressure Na sa l d ra in a g e Irrita ted throa t Freq uen tin f ection s Ea rpressure
W e offers olu tion s : Gettin g to the ca use: a llerg y screen in g , id en tif yin g structura l prob lem sin the n ose.
W hen m ed ica l option s fa il: Ba lloon Dila tion Sin u pla s ty ➢ In -off ice proced ure perf orm ed w ith sed a tion ➢ Q uick recovery -NO NA SA L PA CKING! ➢ A b a lloon isg uid ed in to the sin us open in g a n d expa n d ed , im provin g itsf uture d ra in a g e
R o b ertA. Ehrha rd M D , FACS
➢ The exa ctsa m e com puter g uid a n ce system used in the hospita l isused f ora d d ed sa f ety
251 South Trum a n Rd . Ja sper, In d ia n a Co vered by m o st in su ran ce co m pan ies, in clu din g M edicare.
812-634-6700
THE HERALD ■ FRIDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2017
SENIOR SALUTE ■ PAGE 11
Tips, tricks for comfortable plane travel By JULIA PRICE Creators.com Chances are that later in life, there are many places listed on your bucket list that you’ve wanted to visit your entire life. Maybe you’ve been setting money aside for adventures to exotic sights and sceneries. Perhaps you’re retired and you’ve got a completely open schedule, allowing you to come and go as you please. As the old adage goes, it’s not about the destination but the journey. No matter how seasoned a traveler you may be, figuring out ways to be more comfortable while traveling is extremely beneficial, especially as you age. Here are some tips and considerations to keep you smiling in flight. When you’re booking flights, you can compare prices online using Orbitz, Expedia and Travelocity. Each site offers a search bar that lets you select whether you want to see flights organized by the cheapest price, shortest flight or number of layovers. Layovers are most often seen as an inconvenience — added travel time, potential for losing baggage, etc. But they are not always so. In fact, a layover can be a nice break between long flights and an opportunity to stretch your legs and get the blood moving in your body, which is particularly important if you are dealing with an injury or a disability. Depending on your destination, you can generally find a short layover of less than an hour, or less than two hours for international travel. It’s a short and sweet stop. But if you don’t want to be rushed, look out for a layover of a few hours, which will allow you to take your time getting to the next departure gate and possibly enjoy a meal and a glass of wine. Plus, delays with the first flight can cause you to miss your connecting flight altogether, so a longer layover is a safer bet. If you would like to skip a layover altogether (or you have to), just know that nonstop flights are generally more expensive. Sleep deprivation is extremely common for passengers on long nonstop flights. To ease any discomfort, stock up on melatonin, a homeopathic sleep aid that won’t leave you groggy when you wake up. Drink it down with a soothing hot tea. If you plan on sleeping through your flight, get up every three hours and take a walk to the rear of the plane in order to keep your body from stiffening too much.
Nutrition and travel often don’t mix very well. Preselect your inflight meal online (during booking or up to a few days before the flight). This is especially helpful for those with taste preferences and/or dietary restrictions. Additionally, take a special trip to the grocery store before your travel day and stock up on your favorite snacks. There will be no low blood sugar on this flight. To avoid adding too much weight to carry or throwing out your back, check your bags and purchase one carry-on-sized roller suitcase as a travel essential. In the suitcase, pack the following items: ■■ One small fleece blanket. ■■ A neck pillow. If you don’t have one, you can pick one up at an airport shop. ■■ An eye mask for sleeping. ■■ Lip balm and a reusable water bottle, as flying causes dehydration. ■■ Earplugs (to tune out the snorer next to you). ■■ A small pillow for the arch of your back. ■■ A pair of socks, so you can remove your shoes but keep your feet warm. ■■ Headphones for in-flight entertainment and/or music. ■■ Your favorite books and magazines. ■■ An iPhone or iPad to read ebooks and listen to music. ■■ One pack of hand sanitizer wipes. ■■ One pack of cool wipes to refresh your face and skin. The great thing about the notes above is that they also apply for travel with other modes of transportation, which may be bettersuited for you. Bus companies usually offer senior rates. Many of them offer luxury travel options, too. Major train companies like Amtrak (in the U.S.) and Eurail (in Europe) have stops in nearly every big city in the country, as do most major car rental companies. If you plan on driving your own car for most of your trip, pack a few extra pairs of sunglasses in your glove compartment, and store a few full water bottles in a reachable place. Prefer ground travel with a group? Go to http://seniortours.com/destinations to book a trip for you and your friends -- and save a lot of money with a group rate. If none of these methods of transportation strikes your fancy, head to the Cruise Critic website to compare prices and destinations. Sometimes, by sea is the way to be.
Pack your carryon suitcase with essestials to make flying more comfortable. JULIA PRICE CREATORS.COM
These tips cover all the bases. As you use them, you’ll figure out what works best for you. Share
your secrets with your friends and family so they, too, can cruise with comfort. And no matter where you
go or how you get there, remember to capture as many moments as possible.
FREE Delivery Set-Up & Rem oval OLDFASHION ED COM FORT BUILT FOR THE M ODERN W ORLD. w hitedoveusa.com Ed geb ro o k Plu s h Pillo w To p & Firm
B eec hm o nt Pillo w to p
As hto n Firm
D ela w a re
King Set.......$949.00
King Set.......$599.00
King Set.......$499.00
King Set.......$849.00
Full Set........$599.00
Full Set........$399.00
Full Set........$299.00
Full Set........$499.00
Q ueen Set....$699.00 Tw in Set.......$499.00
Q ueen Set....$499.00 Tw in Set.......$299.00
Q ueen Set....$369.00 Tw in Set.......$199.00
Q ueen Set....$599.00 Tw in Set.......$399.00
MATTRESSES OWNER: MARK GUDORF
812-482-1081 812-309-0661
Jasper, IN 47546 H eating & A ir C onditioning
LASTS AND LASTS AND LASTS™
RUXER
FURNITURE & APPLIANCE ST. MEINRAD • 812-357-5456
Radiant Heat
STORE HOURS Dubois County Time: Mon. & Wed. 8:00 am - 8:00 pm Tues., Thurs. & Fri. 8:00 am - 6:00 pm; Sat. 8:00 am - 2:00 pm
PAGE 12 ■ SENIOR SALUTE
THE HERALD ■ FRIDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2017
An overview: The ABC’s (and D’s) of Medicare By DIANE SCHLINDWEIN Creators.com Seniors may have been reciting the alphabet for over 60 years, but when it comes to the four parts of Medicare — Part A, Part B, Part C and Part D — many people are far less well-versed. In fact, anyone who thinks that signing up for the medical plan for seniors is simple could be in for a rude and costly awakening. “People need to realize that enrolling in Medicare can be complicated,” says Chris Orestis, a senior-care advocate and author of the books “A Survival Guide to Aging” and “Help on the Way.” “If you don’t pay attention, you can end up missing needed coverage or paying more out-of-pocket expenses in premiums, co-pays and deductibles than you realize — or can afford.” For starters, it’s important to understand that Medicare is a federal health insurance program that covers most people 65 or older and some people who are younger who have disabilities. It also covers some people with end-stage renal disease. Medicare coverage comes in two primary forms from which participants can choose. The original Medicare is the abovementioned traditional federal-government-administrated program, which most seniors 65 or older qualify for automatically. The other form of coverage is through Medicare Advantage plans, which are sold by private insurance companies. The Advantage plans sometimes offer additional services, such as routine vision, hearing and dental care. Orestis says that most people have probably heard of Medicare Parts A and D but don’t fully understand all aspects of Medicare. Here’s how the “alphabet” breaks down: ■■ Medicare Part A pays for hospital and skilled-nursing-facility care, but not doctors’ fees. It also pays for some home health care and hospice care. You are automatically enrolled in Part A when you enroll in Medicare through your own or your spouse’s Social Security records. You likely won’t have to pay a monthly premium for Part A. ■■ Medicare Part B is voluntary and pays 80 percent of costs for doctors, outpatient services, lab tests, X-rays, ambulance rides and medical equipment. It has a monthly premium. ■■ Medicare Part C is a private Advantage plan. You must be enrolled in both Part A and Part B to enroll in Part C. ■■ Medicare Part D pays for prescriptions. It is optional and offers some help with the outpatient prescription drugs that seniors often require. The coverage is voluntary and the monthly premium varies depending on how much coverage you have. Anyone who regularly visits doctors or has been hospitalized knows that deductibles and copays can add up quickly — and even with some explanation, many people are concerned or puzzled by how Medicare works. Orestis says a good place to learn more is the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services website, which provides a plethora of information and resources to review and assist enrollment. However, you need to make a decision and do it in a timely manner, Orestis says. “When it comes (time) for Medicare enrollment, not being informed and missing deadlines can cause delays and penalties that can have a negative impact on your coverage and your wallet.”
It’s essential to understand all aspects of Medicare before making any decisions. PIXABAY CREATORS.COM
Ea rly M orning & Evening Appointm ents Ava ila ble
ng i t p Acce ew N ts n e i t Pa
General, Implant & Cosmetic
FAMILY DENTISTRY
¡Se habla español!
That perfect smile is within your reach!
Excellent & Experienced Care Meets Advanced Technology
Senior Citizen Special...receive an additional 10% discount on all services. Valid for NEW PATIENTS ONLY! Age 55 and older. Not to be combined with any other discount or insurance. Transferrable. Please share with your family and friends. Offer expires Dec. 31, 2017.
Ask Us About Our Dental Savings Plan
SMILE CENTER
w w w .h u n tin gb u rgsm ilecen ter.com
812-683-2431
Michael G. Warren, D.D.S.
7120 S.U .S.231 H u n tin gb u rg A cross F rom Sou th rid ge H igh Sch ool
Interest Free Options Available with Approval
Jacy A. Nicholson, D.D.S.