60 & Better | January 2016

MISSION: To create opportunities that allow older residents of Douglas County to remain independent and active in their homes and communities.

January 2016

VISIT US AT WWW.DGCOSENIORSERVICES.ORG

Volume 43 No. 1

INSIDE A Letter from the DA ������������������� PG 3

Leisure and Learning Catalog ���� PG 6 Calendar�������������������������������������� PG 12

Legalese ��������������������������������������� PG 13

MONTHLY EVENTS at the Lawrence Senior Center

FREE BLOOD PRESSURE CHECKS

by Midland Care Connection - Monday, January 11, 11 a.m. to Noon No appointment needed. Just drop in!

WELCOME TO MEDICARE MEETING

- Wednesday, January 13, Noon to 1 p.m.

New to Medicare? Learn what to expect at this informational meeting. Call 785-842-0543 for more information.

2016 AARP TAX-AIDE SCHEDULE

AARP Tax-Aide to offer free tax assistance again this year WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW...

• Tax assistance at the Lawrence tax site, Douglas County Senior Services will begin on Monday, February 1, 2016 • Tax assistance hours will be Monday Thursday, noon to 4 pm; Saturday, 9 am to noon • The Tax Appointment phone line number is 785-856-0365 • The Tax Appointment phone line will be open Monday - Thursday, from 9 am to 3 pm starting Tuesday, January 19, 2016 WHAT YOU SHOULD BRING...

• Photo ID required for all taxpayers • Social Security cards for all taxpayers and dependents • Copy of last year’s tax return

• Year-end Social Security statement, Form SSA-1099 (with some pink printing) • All income documents, i.e. W-2’s and 1099’s • Unemployment compensation statements • Summary list of deductible items (if itemizing); i.e. medical bills, charitable donation, mortgage interest, etc.

• If you purchased health insurance from the Health Insurance Marketplace, Form 1095-A will be required.

• All other forms/info that pertains to your taxes TAXES ARE ALSO PREPARED AT: • Baldwin City Library -Call 785-594-3411 for an appointment • Oskaloosa Public Library - Call 785-863-2637 for an appointment • Ottawa City Hall - Call 785-242-5560 for an appointment

AARP SMART DRIVER COURSE JANUARY 14 & 15

Refresh your driving skills with the AARP Smart Driver Course. Learn defensive driving techniques, proven safety strategies, new traffic laws and rules of the road. This course features a comfortable blend of lecture, video and KANSAS COMMISSION ON discussion. There are no tests to pass, just come and learn. Upon completion VETERANS AFFAIRS you may receive a multi-year discount on your car insurance. Class is in session Wednesday, January 20, 1 to 2 p.m. from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Thursday and Friday, January 14 and 15, with an hour Discussion on programs for low-income for lunch on your own. If you are an AARP member, the cost is $15; the cost for veterans and surviving spouses age 65 and over. nonmembers is $20, payable to the instructor on the first day of class. Class size is limited, so please call 785-842-0543 soon to reserve your space.

For information, call 785-843-5233.

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MAKING HEALTH INSURANCE MAKE SENSE Answers to Some of the Most Commonly Asked Questions

Q:

Can you explain what the Medicare Part A and Part B premiums will be in 2016?

A:

For most beneficiaries, the answer is simple: they will be the same in 2016 as they were in 2015. That’s because there will be no Social Security cost-of-living increase in 2016 benefits. As a result, most people will pay the same premium for Part B, as long as the premium is withheld from their Social Security benefit check. That’s about 70% of all people on Medicare. Also, since 99% of beneficiaries get Part A Medicare coverage without a premium (since they or their spouse have at least 40 calendar quarters of Medicare-covered employment during their lives), that won’t change, either.

Q:

What about people who don’t qualify for the no increase in 2016 in their Medicare Part B Premiums? How much will they pay?

A:

Some beneficiaries will not qualify for the rule that keeps their Part B premium unchanged. These include: people who do not yet collect Social Security benefits; people who will become new beneficiaries in 2016; people who have their Part B premiums paid through a different process, such as Federal retirees; and people who pay an additional premium already, because of their income. People on both Medicare and Medicaid, whose premiums are paid by their States, are also ineligible for unchanged premiums. All beneficiaries in those categories will see an increase in their Part B premiums to $121.80 per month (higher for those with income-related surcharges). These groups together account for about 30% of Medicare’s 52 million beneficiaries.

Q:

Are Medicare Part A and B deductibles going up, too? Will some people be exempt from those increases?

A: The Part A deductible for an inpatient hospital admission is going up from $1,260 in 2015 to $1,288 in 2016. Co-insurance for stays beyond 60 days, and for stays in a skilled nursing facility following an inpatient admission will also increase, by a modest 2.2% in 2016.

The Part B deductible is increasing from $147 in 2015 to $166 in 2016. This is the first increase in the Part B deductible in 3 years. These increases will apply to all beneficiaries; those exempt from premium increases will still be subject to the new deductible and co-pay amounts in 2016.

For more information about 2016 premiums and deductibles, you can go to www.medicare.gov, or call Medicare any time of day or night at 1-800-MEDICARE [1-800-633-4227].

Douglas County Senior Services is a nonprofit organization that provides much needed services to area seniors. We depend upon donations from people like you to keep our mission alive. Won’t you please consider a gift to DCSS? Name ______________________________________________________________________________ Address _____________________________________________________________________________ Phone ______________________________________________________________________________ Donation Amount___________________Email (optional) ______________________________________ Mail your tax deductible contribution to: Douglas County Senior Services, 745 Vermont St., Lawrence, KS 66044.

Or donate online at dgcoseniorservices.org

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OPTIONS FOR THE SAFE DISPOSAL OF UNWANTED PRESCRIPTION DRUGS IN KANSAS A Letter From District Attorney Charles Branson According to the United States Drug Enforcement Administration, at the last DEA-led National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day which was held on September 26, 350 tons or over 700,000 pounds of unwanted or expired medications were returned for safe and proper disposal at more than 5,000 take-back sites. One of those sites was in Lawrence. The combined collection total for the 10 Take Back Days that have been held since September 2010 is over 2,750 tons or over 5.5 million pounds of medication removed from our homes and from the possibility of being abused.

Prior to a change in how prescription medications were classified, they were considered hazardous waste, which meant their lawful disposal was difficult. About the only disposal option was to hold onto them until a prescription Take Back Day and those events were only started in 2010.

Take Back days have demonstrated their success, but there are times where it is unwise to hold onto a medication until the next scheduled event. However, something we must avoid is the incorrect or irresponsible disposal of medication. Flushing medications down toilets can create an environmental hazard for our surface and ground water leading to contamination of our drinking water and harm to fish, wildlife and their habitats.

Another critically important concern about holding onto these medications is the potential for prescription drug abuse. According to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, prescription and over-the-counter drugs, after marijuana and alcohol, are the most commonly abused substances by Americans ages 14 and older. Some

teenagers who abuse prescription drugs are given them for free by a friend or relative. The prescriptions can also be unknowingly removed from the home of family and friends by the abuser from an unlocked cabinet or drawer.

With the high rate of prescription drug abuse, it is fortunate that Kansas regulations reclassified some prescription drugs as regular household waste, which has paved the way for pharmacies to accept the return of some of the drugs*. To view area pharmacies that currently participate in drug take back programs, please view the following link. http://www.kdheks.gov/waste/ about_medwaste.html How do I prepare medications for drop off?

Take back locations can accept medications in many types of packaging including glass, plastic bottles, bubble packs, containers, or sealable plastic bags. If possible make sure that the containers are not leaking or damaged. Leaking or damaged items should be put into sealable plastic bags to prevent spilling.

Once you have gathered all of your unwanted medications from throughout the house, it is important to remove or block out any personal identification from the containers.

This can be done with a permanent marker or by removing the label itself. You can also empty pills into a sealable plastic bag for disposal as an added convenience.

An important note on controlled substances: It is important to make sure that controlled substances are

separated from the other medications because only law enforcement agencies are allowed to take back controlled substances. The Douglas County Sheriffís Office maintains a safe disposal box located on the first floor of the Judicial and Law Enforcement Center. If you would like to know what drugs are considered controlled substances, the United States Department of Justice, Drug Enforcement Administration has a list that can be viewed here. http://www.deadiversion.usdoj.gov/ schedules/index.html.

What medications are accepted? (*returned drugs must meet these guidelines) The following list of items may be taken to a location that accepts uncontrolled medications for disposal. This list is not all inclusive and you may want to contact the location if you have a specific item not seen below.

• Uncontrolled prescription medications • Over the counter medications • Medication samples • Pet medications • Vitamins • Liquid medications in glass or leakproof containers • Medicated ointments and lotions • Inhalers Pharmacies can NOT accept the following items: • Narcotics and other controlled substances • Illicit drugs • Bloody and infectious waste • Needles or other sharp objects • IV Bags • Bandages • Personal care products

• Hydrogen peroxide • Aerosol cans • Thermometers • Empty medication containers Household Hazardous Waste Facilities can NOT accept the following items: • Narcotics and other controlled substances • Illicit drugs • Bloody and infectious waste • Needles and other sharps • IV Bags • Bandages • Empty medication containers By taking advantage of the opportunity to empty your home of unwanted and/or unneeded medications, you are ensuring your home is a safer home and you are doing your part to help protect our environment.

I hope this information is helpful to you. If you have questions, my office’s professional consumer protection staff are always ready to serve you. If you need their assistance, please call 785-330-2849.

We are proud to serve the citizens of Douglas County.

(This document was composed with information from: the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, the United States Drug Enforcement Administration and the National Institute on Drug Abuse.

The information in this article is not intended to provide legal advice.

Legal advice can only be provided in an attorney-client relationship. This information must not be relied on as a substitute for obtaining legal advice from a licensed attorney.)

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How to Make Your Kitchen Safer and Easier to Use Dear Savvy Senior, What tips can you recommend for making a kitchen seniorfriendly? My wife, who loves to cook, has had several kitchenrelated accidents over the past year, which is why we would like to modify to make it safer and more practical.

Cabinets and drawers: To reduce bending or reaching, organize your kitchen cabinets and drawers so that the items you most frequently use are within comfortable reach. You can also make your cabinets and pantry easier to access by installing pullout shelves or lazy susans.

And D-shaped pull-handles for the cabinets and drawers are also recommended because they’re more comfortable for arthritic hands to grasp than knobs.

wife remembering to turn the stove off, there are automatic stove shut-off devices you can purchase and install to prevent a fire. See cookstop. com, stoveguardintl.com and pioneeringtech.com for some different options.

Floors: If you have kitchen throw rugs, to reduce tripping or slipping, replace them with non-skid floor mats or consider gel mats, which are cushiony and more comfortable to stand on for long periods. GelPro.com and WellnessMats.com offer a nice selection.

Faucet: If you have a twisthandle kitchen faucet, replace it with an ADA compliant single handle faucet. They’re easier to use, especially for seniors with arthritis or limited hand strength.

There are also kitchen faucets on the market today (like the Delta Touch20 faucet and Moen MotionSense) that will turn themselves on and off by simply touching the base or moving your hand over a motion sensor. And, for safety purposes, set your hot water tank at 120 degrees to prevent possible water burns.

Refrigerator and freezer: Side-by-side doors work well for seniors because the frequently used items (refrigerated and frozen) can be placed at midshelf range for easy access.

Pullout adjustable height shelves and a water/ice dispenser on the outside of door are also very convenient.

Lights: If the lighting in her kitchen is dim, replace the old overhead fixture with a bright new ceiling light, and add undercabinet task lighting to brighten up her kitchen countertops.

Microwave and stove: If your microwave is mounted above the stove, consider moving it to a countertop. This makes it safer and easier to reach. And if you’re concerned about your

Hungry Husband Dear Hungry, There are a number of simple modifications and inexpensive add-ons that can make a big difference in making your kitchen more age-friendly.

Depending on your wife’s needs, here are some tips for each aspect of the kitchen.

If you’re looking to upgrade some of your appliances too, here are some different senior-friendly features you should look for when shopping.

Stove or cooktop: Look for one with controls in the front so you won’t have to reach over hot burners to turn it off, and make sure the controls are easy to see.

Flat surface electric or induction burners, or continuous grates on gas stoves are also great for sliding heavy pots and pans from one burner to the next. And ask about automatic shut off burners.

Oven: Self-cleaning ovens are a plus, and consider a side-swing door model. They’re easier to get into because you don’t have to lean over a hot swing-down door.

Also consider a wall-mounted oven, installed at your wife’s preferred height to eliminate bending.

Dishwasher: Consider a dishwasher drawer that slides in and out, and is installed on a 6 to 10-inch raised platform. These require less bending to load and unload.

Washer and dryer: Frontload washers and dryers with pedestals that raise the height 10 to 15 inches are also back-savers and easy to access.

Send your senior questions to: Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070, or visit SavvySenior.org. Jim Miller is a contributor to the NBC Today show and author of “The Savvy Senior” book.

(Send your senior questions to: Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070, or visit SavvySenior.org. Jim Miller is a contributor to the NBC Today show and author of “The Savvy Senior” book.)

Keep Moving This Winter By Gayle Sigurdson, The temptation to hibernate in baggy clothes is strong during the winter months, but hibernating doesn’t burn calories or keep us healthy. Moderate exercise is a proven tool for boosting the immune system and preventing colds and flu. When you exercise, you increase your circulation and your blood flow throughout your body. The components of your immune system are also better circulated, which means your immune system has a better chance of finding an illness before it spreads.

Short dark days, snow, and cold can make outdoor exercise less appealing. Finding a solution

begins with identifying the obstacle that most affects you. If it is hard to motivate yourself to leave the house then tie your exercise to another errand and swing by the gym on the way to buy groceries.

Keep your focus on warm summer interests with indoor swimming and cycling. Meeting friends to shoot hoops or walk laps is a way to stay in touch and motivate each other.

Trying something new, or enlisting outside help can create enthusiasm.

Personal trainers focus your efforts for the best results. A different fitness class adds variety to your established routine. Consider registering for programs like the

AICR HEALTHTALK

Karen Collins, MS, RD, CDN - American Institute for Cancer Research I know getting enough sleep is important for good health.

Does a “nightcap” help or hurt?

Some people think that alcohol is a sleep aid, but that’s not true.

Alcohol can reduce how long it takes to fall asleep, but research shows that alcohol actually leads to lower quality, less rejuvenating sleep overall.

The first few hours of sleep may be good quality, but then alcohol seems to produce more disrupted sleep, reducing the amount of deep, restorative sleep.

Some evidence suggests alcohol can also reduce the amount of time spent in the REM stage, where dreams occur; this stage is considered important for learning and other aspects of mental health. Alcohol can also worsen problems with breathing in people with sleep apnea. Scientists studying alcohol’s effects on sleep generally say that having an occasional alcoholic drink before bed is unlikely to be a problem (as long as it doesn’t interact with bedtime medications or pose other medical risks). However, as a nightly habit, this is an unhealthy way to prepare for sleep.

Making time to take a walk or get other moderate physical activity often seems to lead to better sleep, as long as it’s at a time other than a couple of hours just before bedtime. If you routinely have trouble falling asleep, talk to your healthcare provider about healthier ways to deal with this problem. You can find more tips for better sleep from The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention http://www.cdc.gov/sleep/about_sleep/index.htm.

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LPRD Recreation Programmer

Lawrence Memorial Hospital Drive Away the Winter Doldrums Wellness Challenge. This program begins Monday February 8 and ends Sunday April 5th. Participants complete a minimum of eight weekly challenges (sent by e-mail to you on Monday of each week).

These include health screenings, fitness, nutrition and personal wellness goals. Deadline to enroll is Thursday, February 4 at noon.

Contact Aynsley Anderson at (785) 505-3066 or aynsley.anderson@ lmh.org, or Janelle Martin at (785) 505-3070 or janelle.martin@lmh. org. for more information or to enroll.

If a cold does catch you, it’s

usually safe to continue exercise as long as you listen to your body.

Try gentler exercise like stretching to maintain your routine without slowing your recovery. Watch out for certain risky situations. When your cold comes with a fever, exercise could stress your body even more. Aerobic exercise and decongestants can each increase your heart rate, increasing the chance that you may experience shortness of breath or dizziness.

In these cases, wait a few days to get back to your regular exercise program.

Don’t let winter set you back. Stay active and be ready for spring, it will be here soon.

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Leisure and Learning Catalog - Course Description Douglas County Senior Services offers a variety of programs for active Douglas County residents age 55 and over. In our catalog you will also see some Lawrence Parks and Recreation classes, and trips offered by Group Getaways.

PLEASE NOTE THE ENROLLMENT AND PAYMENT INFORMATION BELOW* FOR THE PROGRAM(S) FOR WHICH YOU WISH TO REGISTER. To register for a DCSS activity, fill out the class registration form in this newsletter and mail it with

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your check (payable to DCSS) to: Douglas County Senior Services, Leisure and Learning Department, 745 Vermont St., Lawrence, KS 66044. Walk-ins are welcome. For information call 785-842-0543. • To register for a Lawrence Parks and Recreation activity, go to the Community Building, 115 W. 11th St., 832-7920 or register online at www.lprd.org. • To register for a Group Getaways trip, contact Darla Bass at 785-215-8875 or email: mygroupgetaways@gmail.com.

More trip information available at http://www.mygroupgetaways. net.

DCSS refund/credit policy

(applies to DCSS classes and events only): A full refund or credit will be given for all DCSS classes, events or trips 30 days prior to the class or event, except event tickets that are bought in advance and are non-refundable.

Less than 30 days prior, refunds will be given for medical hardships, approved emergencies, and events canceled or rescheduled by the department. A 10 percent administrative charge will be deducted from refunds for cancellations less than one week in advance.

A.M. Walking Club (Lawrence Parks and Recreation) Walking indoors is a chance to exercise in any weather, get your heart pumping and build friendships with other walkers.

The public is welcome to walk in the gymnasiums at East Lawrence Recreation Center (7-10 a.m.) and Holcom Park Recreation Center (7-11 a.m.), Monday through Friday. Walkers should plan to accommodate scheduled programming. For more information, contact the Recreation Center.

Partial class scholarships may be available for seniors who qualify.

Scholarships will be considered upon completion of application in the Leisure and Learning office.

Reasonable accommodations can be made for special needs.

Registrant must specify needs and provide information at time of enrollment.

Lifelong Meditate and Breathe (Lawrence Parks and Recreation) Mondays, January 11 - February 29, 9:30-10:45 a.m. Fee: $33.

Location: Carnegie Building

Yoga for Every Body (Douglas County Senior Services) Tuesdays, January 5 - February 23, 3-4 p.m. Fee: $28. Location: Lawrence Senior Center.

Instructor: Susan Rieger.

Find peace and stillness within yourself. We will explore restorative yoga postures, yogic breathing techniques, sutra meditation, mantra meditation, guided meditation and yogic and Buddhist philosophy as tools for disciplining the mind, reducing stress and anxiety, and feeling great. Instructor: Kristen Spencer.

Register at www.lprd.org or any Lawrence Recreation Center

This gentle yoga class encourages freedom in all the joints, increases core and leg strength, improves balance, and leaves the participant feeling mentally and physically relaxed and restored. Previous participants report feeling stronger, having more energy, and sleeping better. Please bring a yoga mat and wear clothes which allow you to move easily.

Pickleball - Open Play (Lawrence Parks and Recreation) Monday-Friday at East Lawrence Center and Sports Pavilion Lawrence. For competitive, recreational and beginning players. Call Gayle at the Community Building, 832-7920, for specific days and times. There is no charge for open play.

HEALTH & FITNESS

Personal Training (Lawrence Parks and Recreation) Need help reaching your fitness goals? Lawrence Parks and Recreation has certified personal trainers to help you make your workouts safe, productive and successful. Training and registration are available at all recreation centers. For more information, contact Gayle Sigurdson at 832-7920.

Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program (Lawrence Parks and Recreation and DCSS) Tuesdays and Thursdays, January 5 - March 3, 5:306:30 p.m. Fee: $58. Location: Lawrence Sports Pavilion.

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This community based exercise program is designed specifically for people with arthritis and related diseases, but open to anyone. The program’s multiple components help reduce pain and stiffness and help maintain or improve mobility, muscle strength and functional ability.

The variety of exercises are designed for people of all levels of ability. Instructor is certified by the Arthritis Foundation.

Class offered in partnership with Douglas County Senior Services. Instructor: Rebecca Clancy. Register at www.lprd. org or any Lawrence Recreation Center.

Senior Strength Training Tuesdays and Thursdays, January 5 - March 3, 9-10 a.m. Fee: $58. Location: East Lawrence Center.

Strength training for seniors is effective in improving balance (preventing falls), strengthening major muscle groups, and increasing muscle mass and bone density. The class is designed to include functional movement patterns that enhance daily living activities. A variety of strength training equipment will be used, including free weights, and resistance bands.

Class includes a warm-up period and a post-workout stretch.

NOTE: A physician’s release is

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required prior to beginning of class. Instructor: Deb Geraghty.

Register at www.lprd.org or any Lawrence Recreation Center.

Silver Steppers (Lawrence Parks and Recreation) Wednesdays, January 6 - March 2, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Fee: $36.

Location: East Lawrence Center.

Get ready to mix it up! This class is perfect for the stepper looking for something new. Fun step combinations will torch calories and get your heart pumping.

Instructor: Susan Pomeroy.

Register at www.lprd.org or any Lawrence Recreation Center.

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Silver N’ Fit (Lawrence Parks and Recreation) Tuesday/Thursday, January 7 March 3, 8:30-9:20 a.m. Fee: $48. Location: Sports Pavilion Lawrence.

In this class you will work with hand weights, stability ball, resistance bands and your own body weight.

We’ll get you moving and grooving to the music you’re going to remember and love!

Instructor: Kristen Spencer.

Register at www.lprd.org or any Lawrence Recreation Center.

Pedal Pushers- Cycling Class (Lawrence Parks and Recreation) Fridays, January 8 - March 4, 11:15-noon. Fee: $41.

Location: Community Building.

Indoor cycling increases endurance and strength in your lower body, core and upper body. This is a beginning class for older adults. Bikers can modify their cycling resistance and pace according to their own fitness level. Instructor: Melanie Johnson. Register at www.lprd.org or any Lawrence Recreation Center.

Chair Exercise (Douglas County Senior Services) Wednesdays and Fridays (ongoing) 11-11:30 a.m. Fee: None. Location: Lawrence Senior Center.

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EDUCATION, HOBBY & FINANCE

AARP Smart Driver Course (Douglas County Senior Services) Thursday and Friday, January 14 & 15, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Fee: $15 for AARP Members, $20 for nonmembers. Location: Lawrence Senior Center.

Refresh your driving skills with the AARP Smart Driver Course. You will learn defensive driving techniques, proven safety strategies, and new traffic laws and rules of the road. Plus, there are no tests to pass; simply sign up and learn. Upon completion you could receive a multi-year discount on your car insurance.

Lunch from noon to 1 p.m. on your own. Limited spots available, please call 842-0543 to register.

Writing Our Family Stories (Lawrence Parks and Recreation) Wednesdays, January 20 February 10, 6-8 p.m. Fee: $38.

Location: Carnegie Building.

This course will provide guidance in collecting and writing your family stories. These stories help us stay in touch with who we are. Preserving these stories will help future generations know themselves better. We will use journaling methods and prompts to inspire your words.

Everyone can do this! Previous students are welcome to returnthere are always more stories to tell. Instructor: Iris Wilkinson.

Register at www.lprd.org or any Lawrence Recreation Center.

Beginning Spanish (Douglas County Senior Services) Wednesdays, 1-2 p.m. (ongoing) Fee: None. Location: Lawrence Senior Center Board Room.

Instructor: Jim Bennett. This course will stress some of the basics of the Spanish language and useful words and phrase.

Bring your English to Spanish Dictionary.

Intermediate Spanish (Douglas County Senior Services) Mondays, 1-2 p.m. (ongoing) Fee: None. Location: Lawrence Senior Center Board Room.

Instructor: Jim Bennett. Focus is on reading and conversation.

Bring your English to Spanish Dictionary.

Math Club (Douglas County Senior Services) Mondays and Wednesdays, 2:30-3:30 p.m. (ongoing) Fee: None. Location: Lawrence Senior Center Board Room. Instructor: Saul Stahl. Come stretch your mind and enjoy lively discussion!

American Mah Jongg (Lawrence Parks and Recreation) Thursdays, February 4 - March 10, 7-9 p.m. Fee: $35. Location: Carnegie Building.

This fascinating rummy-like game was originally played solely by the Chinese ruling classes.

Now with patience and a few lessons, anyone can master the intricacies of this classic game.

Instructor: Pearl Neaves. Register at www.lprd.org or any Lawrence Recreation Center.

Bridge 1 (Lawrence Parks and Recreation) Wednesdays, January 6 February 10, 9-11 a.m. Fee: $40.

Location: Indoor Aquatics Center.

This course is designed for the first time player. Classes follow Audrey Grant’s “Club Series” which lays the groundwork of Standard American bidding and introduces the basics of Play of the Hand and Scoring. Lessons focus on discussion of pre-dealt hands which follow a step-by-step progression to facilitate learning the language of bidding. Lessons are fun, friendly and interactive.

Bring a friend and join the fun!

Instructor: Don Brennaman.

Register at www.lprd.org or any Lawrence Recreation Center.

Laughter Reigns - Join the Theatre Lawrence Vintage Players!

The Vintage Players meet at 1:30 p.m. every second and fourth Tuesday of the month at Theatre Lawrence, 4660 Bauer Farm Drive. Welcome to all seniors who like to laugh and have fun.

The Vintage Players share skits and one-liners with each other at performances in the community.

For more information on the Vintage Players, please call Mary Ann at Theatre Lawrence, 8437469, ext. 201.

TECHNOLOGY Computer 101 (Lawrence Parks and Recreation) Tuesdays, February 23 - March 8, 2-3:30 p.m. Fee: $32. Location: Riverfront Computer Learning Center.

Designed for beginners or those with limited or no experience, this class will cover computer components, basic computer terminology, moving and copying folders and files, desktop shortcuts, and an introduction to the Internet with hands-on work at every lesson. Take home curriculum included. Instructor: Sharon Gan. Register at www. lprd.org or any Lawrence Recreation Center.

Intro to iPads (Lawrence Parks and Recreation) Tuesdays, February 9 - March 8, 10-11:30 a.m. Fee: $56.

Location: Community Building.

Thinking about getting an iPad or already own one and not sure if you are getting the most out of it?

This class will be a demonstration and learning session, so please bring your iPad with you. iPads will also be available during class. We will cover the basic operation of the device and apps for recreation, health, education, finance and socializing.

Instructor: Karen Johnson.

Register at www.lprd.org or any Lawrence Recreation Center.

ART Art for Everyone (Lawrence Parks and Recreation) Mondays, February 1 - March 7, 7-8:30 p.m. Fee: $70. Location: Community Building.

This beginning level class teaches the basic skills of two dimensional arts through drawing, painting and printmaking. Each project will give you a chance to explore what

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techniques fit your style. Creative arts are a great opportunity to experience the benefits of lifelong learning. All materials included.

Instructor: Mary St. John.

Register at www.lprd.org or any Lawrence Recreation Center.

Downtown Tuesday Painters (Douglas County Senior Services) Tuesdays, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Fee: None. Location: Lawrence Senior Center Conference Room.

Bring your painting project and supplies and join the Downtown Tuesday Painters.

Acrylic Painting (Douglas County Senior Services) Saturdays (every other), December 5 & 19. 9:30 a.m. - noon. Fee: $20 per session. Location: Lawrence Senior Center. Instructor: Lori Dalrymple. Techniques, styles and tips taught with acrylic paints on canvas or other surfaces. Designed for beginners and experienced painters alike. Class is designed as a drop-in session, so start anytime. Bring your own supplies, suggested supply list available

from instructor. No registration required, fee of $20 applies to each drop-in session attended.

MUSIC

New Horizons Band (Douglas County Senior Services) Fridays, 4 - 5 p.m. Location: Lawrence Senior Center. Band Directors John Towner and Robert Wolfersberger encourage anyone interested in playing to join. Dues are $5 for the year. Contact John Towner at 785-865-3519 or 785865-8851 (cell), or by email at towner@sunflower.com.

Intergenerational Choir (Douglas County Senior Services) Resumes in February Fridays, 12:30-1:30 p.m.

Location: Lawrence Senior Center.

Seniors with an interest in singing are invited to join students from the University of Kansas to participate in an Intergenerational Choir. Sing popular music from yesterday and today. Led by music therapy students from KU.

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The Intergenerational Choir will rehearse, and perform once or twice a semester. Contact Becca Kurtz, beccakurtz@ku.edu.

(Don’t have email? Call Janet at 842-0543.)

ENTERTAINMENT Theatre Lawrence Dress Rehearsal (Douglas County Senior Services) “Girls’ Weekend” - January 21, 7:30 p.m.

Farce by Karen Schaeffer. The women tell everyone they’re going to Dot’s weekend cabin for book club. However, after the third case of wine comes through the door, it becomes clear there will be more stewing than reviewing. As bottles tip up, secrets spill out and men sneak in.

Note: Due to limited number of available dress rehearsal tickets, only 2 tickets will be allowed per request. Tickets will be distributed after a random drawing a week before the dress rehearsal date.

Continued on page 10

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Leisure and Learning CataLog

Continued from page 9

DAY/SHORT TRIPS New Theatre - Moon over Buffalo (Lawrence Parks and Recreation) Wednesday, April 13, 10:45 a.m.-4 p.m. Fee: $60. Location: Trip leaves from Community Building.

In this hilarious comedy two fading stars of the 1950’s are playing a comedy and a drama in rotation in Buffalo, New York.

On the brink of a disastrous split-up, they receive word that they might have just one last shot at regaining their stardom. One perfect performance is all they need. Unfortunately, everything that can go wrong does go wrong and no on stage knows if theyíre in the drama or comedy. This trip will be in the LPRD department bus. Register at www.lprd.org or

any Lawrence Recreation Center.

Registration deadline: March 11, 2016.

ALSO HAPPENING AT THE SENIOR CENTER Popcorn Fridays (Ongoing) Every Friday, 1:30-3:30 p.m.

Fee: None, but donations appreciated. Location: Lawrence Senior Center. Join us each Friday afternoon to enjoy a bag of freshly popped popcorn, just like you’d get at the movie theater. What a perfect snack to start off the weekend. Limit 1 free bag per person, while supplies last.

Pool & Coffee (Ongoing) Monday, Wednesday, Friday, 8 a.m.

Bingo (Ongoing) Thursdays, 11-11:45 a.m.

LAWRENCE PUBLIC LIBRARY

BOOKMOBILE The Lawrence Public Library Bookmobile make stops each week at a variety of senior communities across the city.

Anyone with a valid library card may select items from the bookmobile and may return materials that had been checked out at the main library building.

If you do not have a library card, you may obtain one from the bookmobile by showing a valid ID. You need not be a resident of the site to make a selection from the bookmobile. So, when the weather makes you feel like staying closer to home, consider the Bookmobile.

Please note that the Bookmobile does not run on holidays when the library is closed. In January, that includes New Year’s Day and Martin Luther King Jr. Day.

Trinity In-Home Care Services: Light Housekeeping Meal Preparation Grocery Shopping Personal Care Daily Living Support Mobility Assistance

Companionship Medication Reminders Local Transportation Community Integration Caregiver Relief Respite Care

w w w. t i h c . o r g • P h o n e : ( 7 8 5 ) 8 4 2 - 3 1 5 9

MONDAY: 9-10 a.m.

Prairie Commons, 5121 Congressional Circle 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Presbyterian Manor, 1429 Kasold Drive 11 a.m.-12 p.m Vermont Towers, 1100 Vermont St.

WEDNESDAY: 9-10 a.m.

Brandon Woods, 1501 Inverness Drive 10:30 - 11:30 a.m.

Arbor Court, 1510 St. Andrews Dr. 1-2 p.m.

Babcock Place, 1700 Massachusetts St. FRIDAY: 9-10 a.m.

Clinton Place Apartments, 2125 Clinton Parkway 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Wyndham Place Apartments, 2551 Crossgate Dr. 1:30-2:30 p.m.

Peterson Acres, 2910 Peterson Road.

If you have a question concerning the bookmobile, call the Library’s Senior Outreach Services at 8433833. Visit the Library’s website: www.lawrence.lib. ks.us.

60 & Better Page 11

VOLUNTEERS ARE NEW HORIZONS BAND SCHEDULE NEEDED NOW Rehearsal are held at the Lawrence Senior Center, 745 Vermont SERVING LAWRENCE, LECOMPTON, EUDORA, & BALDWIN CITY RESERVATIONS AND INFORMATION call 785-865-6925 Senior Wheels strives to meet the transportation needs of customers who are 60 years or older in Douglas County.

Accompanying spouses & caregivers are also eligible to ride at no additional charge.

Our drivers provide Door to Door assistance.

RESERVATIONS ARE REQUIRED FOR ALL RIDES.

The DCSS Senior Meals Program needs volunteer delivery drivers to take lunch to homebound seniors. Meals delivery is a much needed service that helps seniors remain in their homes. It is a very rewarding volunteer experience, guaranteed to put a smile on your face. To volunteer, or for more information, contact the DCSS Senior Meals program at 785-842-0543.

Street. Rehearsals and concerts are held at 4 p.m., unless otherwise noted. Band Directors John Towner, Robert Wolfersberger and Dave Ruhlen encourage anyone interested in playing to join. Dues are $5 for the year. Contact John Towner at 785-865-3519 or 785-865-8851 (cell), or by email at towner@sunflower.com.

JANUARY 1 - 2016 - CLOSED (New Year’s Break) 8 - Rehearsal 15 - Rehearsal 22 - Rehearsal 29 - Rehearsal

SCHEDULE EARLY: Due to a heavy demand for transportation, rides may be scheduled as far in advance as 7 days or as little as 48 hours.

You should be ready to board 15 minutes prior to your scheduled ride.

COST: $ 3.00 for each one way trip within the city limits of each community. $15.00 for trips outside of the city limits.

(Example: a one way trip from Eudora to Lawrence) For detailed policy information, please call 785-865-6925 and ask for a Policy Manual. Baldwin City has a Volunteer Transportation Program.

For Reservations or information about rides in Baldwin City call 785-594-3376.

Home Health | Hospice | Rehabilitation | Help at Home (785) 843-3738

●

www.kansasvna.org

60 & Better Page 12

JANUARY 2016 CALENDAR OF EVENTS

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Call us today to learn more about any of these locations: Lawrence, KS

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(816) 272-1689

Overland Park, KS

(913) 745-7392

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VillageCooperative.com

1 CLOSED for New Year’s Day

4 DCSS Caregiver Support Group, 2:15-3:45 p.m., Lawrence Senior Center. For information call Janet, 842-0543.

5 Grief Support Group, 10:30 a.m., Grace Hospice, 1420 Wakarusa, Ste. 202. For information call Dave Jenkins, 85-228-0400.

19 Grief Support Group, 10:30 a.m., Grace Hospice, 1420 Wakarusa, Ste. 202. For information call Dave Jenkins at 785-228-0400.

20 Douglas County Coalition on Aging (DCCOA), 8 a.m., Lawrence Senior Center.

20 Kansas Veteran’s Commission discussion of benefits for low-income veterans and surviving spouses, 1:30 p.m., Lawrence Senior Center. For information call Rick Massey at 843-5233.

2016

11 Free Blood Pressure Check, 11 a.m. to Noon, Lawrence Senior Center. Provided by Midland Care Connection. No appointment needed.

11 Breast Cancer Support Group, 5:30 p.m., Presbyterian Manor, 1429 Kasold. For information, call 842-5250 or 840-2768.

13 Welcome to Medicare Meeting, 12 to 1 p.m., Lawrence Senior Center. Informational meeting for those new to Medicare. For information call 842-0543.

18 CLOSED for Martin Luther King, Jr. Day 19 Parkinson’s Support Group, 2 p.m., First Presbyterian Church.

For more information call Elaine, 760-1026.

19 Stroke Support Group, 4 p.m., Lawrence Memorial Hospital.

For more information call 785-505-2886.

21 Low Vision/Blind Outreach Ministry Dinner, 5:30-7 p.m., Immanuel Lutheran Church and Student Center, 2104 Bob Billings Parkway (15th and Iowa St. adjacent to KU Campus). This group meets for dinners, social and speaker events, as well as day trips. RSVP encouraged for purpose of dinner reservations.

Anyone in the community that is blind or has low vision is welcome.

For information call 843-0620.

25 Breast Cancer Support Group, 5:30 p.m., Presbyterian Manor, 1429 Kasold. For information, call 8425250 or 840-2768.

The Lawrence Bridge Club meets Saturdays from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m.

Contact Steven Bogler, 690-7071 or Lisa Smith, 856-5049 for more information.

If you would like your meeting listed in the calendar of events, please contact DCSS at 842-0543.

60 & Better Page 13

LEGALESE

by Molly Wood

is for the purpose of recovering Medicaid payments from your husband’s estate, and HMS is writing to you to inquire about what property might be in his estate that could be used to pay its claim.

Q: My husband spent his last year in a nursing home, and part of that time, we received Medicaid assistance with the cost of his care. He died in November, and last week I received a letter from the state asking about our bank accounts and property. I am afraid to answer the letter, because I was counting on using our remaining assets to live on, but I am afraid not to answer the letter, because the state might take some action against me.

A: Don’t be afraid. It is bad enough that you’ve lost your husband; don’t lose your peace of mind.

The letter you received is not actually from the state of Kansas. Rather, Kansas has hired a private company from Iowa, Health Management Services (HMS), to collect payments for Kansas made on behalf of Medicaid recipients.

HMS was notified by the state of Kansas that your husband died. The letter you received

Kansas has had a form of this recovery process against the estates of deceased Medicaid recipients since 1992, and the underlying policy of estate recovery seems prudent and responsible. Medicaid payments are made from state and federal taxes - about 60¢ of every Medicaid dollar comes from federal general revenues and about 40¢ from the state.

And, of course, only very sick, needy Kansans receive Medicaid assistance with the cost of nursing home care, so the ability of the state to recover Medicaid payments is limited.

However, if a person who has received Medicaid assistance dies owning some property - a home, perhaps, it seems fair and reasonable for the state to recoup those payments.

BUT not if he has a surviving spouse. HMS is not permitted to recover on any Medicaid claim for reimbursement for payments to your husband during your lifetime. You are able to use

the property and consume your remaining resource in any way you choose. You can spend your money in the way you consider is most appropriate for your well-being and security. Both Kansas and federal law protect the surviving spouse against these claims, so you do not have to be afraid of any type of active collection action against you during your lifetime.

Moreover, you have absolutely no obligation to provide any information on your assets or income to HMS or anyone else. You can throw the letter from HMS away, and nothing will happen. (Actually, HMS might send another letter, but you can throw that one away, too.) According to Kansas and federal law, HMS may not take any action against your property or assets, regardless of whether you provide the information it is seeking.

I hope this information is reassuring. Although it is probably not illegal to send a letter seeking a wide range of private financial information to a recently widowed person, it is probably not the way HMS should treat the citizens of Kansas. We have had an estate recovery program in Kansas for

over 20 years. Estate recovery has properly collected millions of dollars that have been returned to state and federal general revenues. But with the hiring of HMS, it has used more aggressive tactics like the letter you received, which would alarm anyone in your situation. If you have any more detailed questions or continuing concerns about estate recovery, you should seek competent legal advice.

(Editor’s Note: Molly M. Wood is an elder law attorney and a partner at Stevens & Brand, L.L.P., in Lawrence. If you have a legal question or concern and are age 60 or over you may call the Kansas Elder Law Hotline at 888-353-5337. The Elder Law Project attorney from Kansas Legal Services is available by appointment in Douglas County at the Lawrence Senior Center, 842-0543.)

VIEVE LIFE | SHARE LIFE Right where you live.

Referral and resources for senior care and living.

785-813-1851 www.vievehealth.org

60 & Better Page 14

LEARN HOW TO

AVOID PROBATE & PROTECT HEIRS Join Attorney, Corey A. Rasmussen, as he discusses how sound estate planning can avoid probate, avoid family disputes and other crucial state planning issues. Topics covered include:

• Avoid Probate and Court Interference with Your Affairs • Minimize Family Infighting • Protect Heirs from Wasting Inheritances • Keep Assets in Your Bloodline • Preserve and Protect IRA’s and Retirement Accounts • Avoid Living & Death Probate

EDUCATIONAL SEMINARS JANUARY Wed. 13th

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60 & Better Page 15

O.U.R.S. Dances January 2016

(Oldsters United for Responsible Service) PLEASE NOTE: All Dances are held from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Eagles, 1803 W 6th St. Carry-in meal at 7:15 p.m. Cover charge is $6 per person. Everyone welcome.

SUNDAY, JANUARY 3 Country Melody

SUNDAY, JANUARY 24 (Business Meeting 5 p.m.)

Borderline Country

SUNDAY, JANUARY 10 Dr. Cook’s Medicine SUNDAY, JANUARY 31 Show Odds and Ends SUNDAY, JANUARY 17 Barbed Wire

DCSS Board of Directors

Dennis Domer, Chair

Judy Wright, Vice Chair

Kathy Clausing-Willis, Doni Mooberry, Secretary Treasurer Steve Tesdahl Judy Bellome Dr. Phil Godwin Ernesto Hodison Kelly Calvert Hank Booth Ellen Paulsen

ATTENTION

ALL SENIORS! In case of bad weather please listen to KLWN 1320 AM radio for closing of senior center, meals and activities.

Information will also be available on TV station KMBC Channel 9 and cable Channel 6.

60 & Better Page 16

Oticon Dynamo: Super Power hearing aid, More speech details!

If you are very hard of hearing, you know all too well there’s a long way from hearing sounds to making sense of them. Even with a “powerful” hearing aid, critical high frequency sounds are often lost, making it hard to catch the meaning. Developed for people with severe to profound hearing loss, Oticon Dynamo hearing aids fill in the missing speech details so that you understand more and can stay in the conversation.

Thanks to Oticon’s innovative Speech Rescue™ technology, Dynamo takes the high frequencies that often go lost – such as ‘s’ and ‘th’ sounds – and moves them to a lower frequency range that you can hear. As a result, your brain gets access to the full spectrum of sounds, rescuing speech cues that would otherwise be lost and giving you a more complete sound experience.

Call Gerald Whiteside, Au.D., CCC-A, to schedule a free consultation.

785-843-8479 1112 W. 6th St. Ste. 100 Lawrence, KS www.marstonhc.com

Editor: Janet Ikenberry Executive Director: Gary Nelson

Printer: Lawrence Journal-World 609 New Hampshire, Lawrence, KS 66044 Douglas County Senior Services, Inc., is funded by Douglas County Mill Levy • Older Americans Act through the Jayhawk Area Agency on Aging • Kansas Department on Aging • Kansas Department of Transportation • special grants • project income • fund-raising activities • and your donations.

Douglas County Senior Services, Inc. does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, age, sex, color, ancestry, national origin, disability, sexual orientation or size. If you feel that you have been discriminated against, you have the right to file a complaint with Douglas County Senior Services. 842-0543.

(TDD: 1-800-766-3777).

Toll free: 1-877-295-DCSS (1-877-295-3277) On the web: dgcoseniorservices.org