60 and Better | June 2015

June 2015

Volume 42 No. 6

INSIDE Summer Heat �������������������������������� PG 3

Leisure and Learning Catalog ���� PG 8 Calendar���������������������������������������PG 11

Menu�������������������������������������������� PG 12 Legalese ��������������������������������������� PG 14

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED TO DELIVER MEALS

Do you have an hour or so to spare around lunch time? How about helping the Senior Meals program deliver meals to homebound seniors? Volunteers are needed now! Summer is a particularly challenging time for the program, as we lose student volunteers, and others have summer travel plans. This is a very rewarding volunteer experience, guaranteed to put a smile on your face. To become a volunteer meal delivery driver, or for more information, contact the DCSS Senior Meals program at 785-842-0543.

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

VISIT US AT WWW.DGCOSENIORSERVICES.ORG

Complimentary Free State Festival Film Passes The Lawrence Arts Center’s Free State Festival, June 22-28, is a week-long celebration of film, music, art, and ideas in the heart of Lawrence’s Cultural District. Let DCSS and ReINVENT Retirement help you “Live the Lawrence Life.” A limited number of Free State Festival Film Passes are available for free to seniors age 50 and over. Film Passes provide access to all Free State Festival film screenings. To get your free film pass, please complete the form available at the Lawrence Senior Center, 745 Vermont Street; the Lawrence Arts Center, 940 New Hampshire Street or by emailing brenna@livelawrencelife.com. Entries must be received by Friday, June 12. Passes will be available on a first come, first served basis. Get your entry in soon - these passes will go fast! For more information, contact Brenna at 785-842-0543.

Started as a small independent film festival in 2011 by the Lawrence Arts Center’s Director of Film and New Media, Marlo Angell, the Free State Festival has become an interdisciplinary festival featuring an international slate of more than 10 feature films, 40 short films, outdoor concerts, stage performances, digital media installations, and provocative panel discussions. Last year’s festival attracted approximately 12,000 audience members, and featured sold-out film screenings, lively discussions, and packed outdoor performances. Funded in part by a National Endowment for the Arts Creative Placemaking grant, the Free State Festival highlights diverse art and artists with the long-term goal of enhancing the socioeconomic wellbeing of the region and providing opportunities for artists of all disciplines and backgrounds. For more details about the event, go to www.freestatefestival.org.

Thank you, McGrew Real Estate, for being our most recent sponsor for ReINVENT Retirement!

ReINVENT Retirement is an initiative to attract retirees to relocate to Lawrence and Douglas County. Pictured L to R: Heather Brown, Suzanne Hutchens, Judy Wright (Douglas County Senior Services Board Vice Chair and CoChair for ReINVENT Retirement), Cindy Pence, Shannon Mason, Carrie Shuck, and Eddie Davalos.

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AICR HEALTHTALK

Karen Collins, MS, RD, CDN - American Institute for Cancer Research Does the recommendation for at least 30 minutes of physical activity every day apply even to older adults?

Yes, in fact, if you’re an older adult, regular physical activity is among the most important things you can do for your health. Keeping active reduces risk of cancer and other chronic diseases like heart disease and diabetes. What’s more, the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) cites strong evidence that physical activity supports psychological well being and brain function, and may reduce risk of dementia. Regular physical activity helps maintain the ability to live independently, reducing risk of dangerous falls and keeping muscles strong enough to continue day-to-day activities.

If you’re 65 years of age or older, are generally fit and have no limiting health conditions, you can follow the recommendations to get at least 150 minutes of moderate activity each week (30 minutes at least five days a week), or 75 minutes of vigorous activity weekly. Getting an hour a day or more of moderate activity is even better. In addition to this aerobic activity that gets your heart rate up a little, the ACSM says there’s strong evidence that for middle age and older adults to maintain muscle, they need to do some sort of muscle-strengthening (resistance training) exercises two or more days a week. It’s important to work all major muscle groups (legs, hips, back, abdomen, chest, shoulders and arms). Check the National Institute on Aging program called Go4LifeÆ (https://go4life.nia.nih.gov/get-started) for more information about how older adults successfully work physical activity into their lives.

For people with arthritis, diabetes, heart disease and other conditions who can also benefit from regular exercise talk with your doctor to make a plan for physical activity that is right for you. Physical activity helps people with high blood pressure and may help improve balance problems.

If you’ve been sedentary, start with blocks of five or ten minutes of moderate activity and build up. Even 60 minutes a week is better than none.

No matter your age, avoid physical inactivity.

Learn What to Expect at

“Welcome to Medicare” June 17

Are you new to Medicare? Do you have questions? Join Community Services Program Assistant and Senior Health Insurance Counseling for Kansas (SHICK) Coordinator Criss Tomlin for this overview of the Medicare program from noon to 1 p.m., Wednesday June 17. Participants are free to bring their lunch or reserve one through our Senior Meals program. For more information please contact Criss at Douglas County Senior Services, 785-842-0543 or toll free 1-877-295-3277.

LIFELONG TRAVEL CLUB June 23 Anyone with an interest in travel is invited to join the LPRD Lifelong Travel Club. Local travelers share their experiences with locations and cultures around the world.

Janice Friedman loves to travel, enjoying everything from day trips to quirky museums, to trips halfway around the world to immerse herself in new cultures or environments. On Tuesday, June 23, 6 p.m. at the Carnegie Building,

9th and Vermont, Janice will share a recent trip to England designed to explore literary locations and other out of the way sites.

No advance registration is required, but we appreciate RSVP’s to help with planning. Contact Gayle Sigurdson at 785-832-7920 or gsigurdson@lawrenceks.org with questions or to RSVP.

SUMMER HEAT - stay active, but play it safe RELAY FOR LIFE

By Gayle Sigurdson - LPRD Recreation Programmer June 12 As temperatures rise, activities like gardening and biking can pose new challenges. Being safe in the summer involves more than just using sunscreen, and with some basic precautions you can stay comfortable while still participating in your favorite pastimes.

Warmer weather puts extra stress on your body, especially when you are exercising. Heat stress occurs when the body cannot cool itself enough to maintain a healthy temperature. Exertion and air temperature combine to increase your core temperature, and in your body’s effort to cool itself, leaves less blood for your muscles, increasing your heart rate. High humidity can also add stress, as sweat (your body’s natural cooling system), does not evaporate as quickly from your skin. It is important not to ignore the signs of heat stress: nausea, dizziness, muscle cramps, and/or a headache. Much of your reaction to the summer heat depends on how active you already are, and how acclimated you are to the hot weather.

Prevention starts at the top.

When possible, wear light-colored clothing, and accessories such as a wide brimmed hat and sunglasses.

Try to avoid dark colors which can absorb the heat. Take a little time to learn about fabrics that can help keep you cool. Lightweight, loose fitting clothes are smart choices, as are “moisture wicking fabrics,” which are designed to pull moisture to the exterior of the fabric, making water evaporation easier and thereby keeping you cooler. Also consider

switching to lightweight, ventilated walking shoes and socks. Mesh is cooler than leather and dries faster when your feet sweat. You can also try a walking sandal if it offers enough protection for your activity.

Remember, regardless of your attire, sunscreen is always the best accessory. Sunburns decrease the body’s ability to cool itself, and can also increase your risk of cancer.

It is imperative to stay hydrated in the summer heat. The best fluids to drink depend on the intensity of your activity and personal condition.

Generally either water or sports drinks are ideal, while drinks with caffeine or alcohol should be avoided.

Be sure to drink fluids before, during, and after your activity - don’t wait until you are thirsty!

Another way to beat the heat is to plan your time outside based on the location and time of day when it is likely to be cooler. Avoid the midday sun, and if possible, exercise in a shady area, or choose a water workout in the pool. For the days when the heat is dangerous, try walking laps indoors, use an indoor pool, or climb stairs inside an air-conditioned building. Indoor exercise also gives you the time to acclimate to the heat by gradually increasing the length and intensity of your time outdoors.

Keep in mind your risk for heat related illness can increase with certain medical conditions or medications. If you are high risk, be sure and talk to your doctor about precautions to assure that you safely enjoy activities during the summer months.

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The Relay for Life of Douglas County on Friday, June 12th will be held at the Free State High School track, 4800 Overland Drive in Lawrence. This free event is a major fundraiser for the American Cancer Society.

Everyone is invited to attend any or all of the events, to honor cancer survivors and remember those lost. Activities, music, food vendors, and a silent auction begin at 5:00 p.m. The official opening ceremony begins at 7:00 which includes a survivor lap around the track, and a caregiver lap. At 9:15 p.m. the luminaria ceremony begins, when thousands of candles will be lighted for the all-night glow to honor and remember individuals. You may make a contribution or purchase luminaria at the event. Many individuals will continue to walk around the track until dawn, to signify that cancer never sleeps.

For more information, please visit relayforlife.org/douglasks or call (785)438-5610.

Douglas County Senior Services (DCSS) would like to recognize Jason Hornberger for his service on the board of directors. Hornberger served on the board for 5 years. During his tenure he was the board treasurer from 2013 - 2014, and he served as Vice Chair in 2010.

Hornberger said, “I believe in the DCSS mission of creating opportunities for older adults to remain independent and active in their homes and communities. I am also very excited about the new opportunities Jason Hornberger DCSS has to attract new retirees to our community. My five years on the board has been a great opportunity for me and I hope I was able to further the agency’s mission.”

DCSS is grateful to Hornberger for sharing his expertise to further this mission. He has been instrumental in helping DCSS grow and transition. We extend our best wishes to him for future success.

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Summer Vacation: A Time for Rest Not Stress A Letter From District Attorney Charles Branson Do not let your long awaited summer vacation turn into your summer headache. It is extremely common to plan your vacation online, but like everything else that can be exploited, scammers love to latch onto your hardearned dollars. There are many ways scammers accomplish this, but I want to take this opportunity to warn you about a few of the most common scams and to also help you generally safeguard your hard-earned vacation. I recently came across information from the Better Business Bureau

about these scams and when I researched the topic, I discovered a flood of scams.

One of the most basic things you can do to avoid a vacation scam is to try the “old school” approach and talk to your family and friends about the companies, websites or destinations that they have used and would recommend to you. It is also the perfect opportunity to learn about places to avoid.

Next, you will want to be aware of some of the major types of vacations scams. While this is not an exhaustive list, it does provide

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a basic framework for how these different types of scams work.

Vacation Rental Scams The up and coming scam has its basis in the private vacation rentals business. Websites that are used to search for rentals, such as VRBO (Vacation Rentals

by Owner), Airbnb and even Craigslist now exist to fill the void between travelers and homeowners who wish to rent out everything from a room in their home to their entire house.

There are truly legitimate rentals that can be found using these sites and some customers love using them. However, it is also a market that has a large potential for fraud. If you use one of these online businesses, one thing to be cautious of is that scammers will post beautiful pictures of a home (that may not even exist in that area you are searching) at a very low price. That low price is sure to catch your eye. The scammer will ask for a deposit to hold your reservation and chances are that they will want you to pay with cash or a cash-transfer service (like Western Union). These types of money transactions raise a huge red flag. If you believe a rental is legitimate, then use your credit card. If you would be

caught in a scam, the big credit card companies may allow you to recover money you lose to fraud.

Also, make certain to follow any of the website’s security and safety rules. For example, a site may insist all e-mails between parties be sent through their site and not sent directly from person to person.

If you still want to rent a private home, but are worried about being scammed, consider using a local agent to guide you to properties that are legitimately available.

Yes, they come with a fee, but they can help you find a genuine vacation property. Remember to verify the agent’s license.

Fraudulent Vacation Packages Victims see deeply discounted vacation packages being offered at a luxurious resort or cruise.

After a deposit is paid, the victim learns the quality/value of the vacation package has been grossly misrepresented and/or there are substantial additional fees that must be paid. Some of common fees are for: international departure and arrival taxes, processing fees, peak week surcharges, late booking fees, departure city surcharges and fuel surcharges. If you do want

to consider a vacation package, make certain you read all of the fine print on the advertisement and invoice.

The “Free” Vacation You may receive notice (e-mail, postcard, fax, etc.) that you have won a free vacation. The general scam requires that you call to “claim” your prize. That is when they will ask for your credit card number for the so-called service charge. Although you will be assured you can cancel the package, they will charge your account right away and hundreds of dollars in service fees may hit your card. Once again, if it sounds too good to be true, it is.

In addition to being aware of the general framework of some of the scams, the Better Business Bureau provides these tips to help you spot a scam: 1. Do not be fooled by low cost or no cost vacation offers.

They typically fail to disclose all related fees and have many restrictions.

2. Obtain all company information. Avoid travel offers received in the mail, over the phone, fax, e-mail, or at a presentation that do not disclose the company’s name, location and contacts.

3. Do not rely solely on e-mail correspondence. Many rental scams are carried out by foreign scammers - so check the area code and try to talk by phone with the potential property owner, booking or listing agent or travel coordinator when possible.

4. Never pay upfront for any vacation package with a wire transfer or prepaid debit card.

Use a credit card or PayPal and negotiate paying only a deposit when possible.

5. Get everything in writing before providing any payment.

If you attend a presentation for a timeshare or travel club, make sure all verbal promises are provided in writing. Review all terms and conditions carefully before making a decision.

6. Go to Better Business Bureau (or https://www.bbb.org/) to check out the business.

7. Read the fine print. Make sure you understand all terms and conditions of a travel offer as well as any cancellation and refund policies.

According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) another effective tip is to search online for the owner and listing with words like review, scam or complaint.

In your online search you may

find comments from others who have identified a listing as a scam. Another scam tip the FTC provides is be aware if you find the same ad listed under a different name or with different contact information.

Finally, trust your instincts. If you enter your search for vacation deals with a degree of skepticism, your chances of noticing unusual or suspicious behavior will increase. Scammers count on you not doing your research, not asking too many questions and accepting answers that simply do not add up. Walk away from the situation and do not look back.

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If you would like to speak to our staff about vacation scams, our consumer protection division can be reached at 785-330-2849.

We are always ready to serve the citizens of Douglas County.

(Some of the information in this article came from the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation.

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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Driving Safely with Dementia and Knowing When to Quit Dear Savvy Senior, Is it safe for seniors with dementia to drive, and if so, when should they stop? My dad has early Alzheimer’s disease but still drives himself around town just fine.

Looking Ahead Dear Looking, While most doctors agree that people with moderate to severe dementia should not take the wheel, in the early stages, the medical consensus is that driving performance should be the determining factor of when to stop driving, not the disease itself.

With that said, it’s also important

to realize that as your dad’s driving skills deteriorate over time from the disease, he might not recognize it.

So it’s very important that you work closely with him and his doctor to monitor his driving. Here are some tips that can help.

Warning Signs The best way to keep tabs on your dad’s driving is to take frequent rides with him watching out for key warning signs. For example: Does he have trouble remembering routes to familiar places? Does he drive at inappropriate speeds, tailgate or drift between lanes? Does he react slowly or make poor driving decisions? Also, has your dad had any fender benders

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or tickets lately, or have you noticed any dents or scrapes on his vehicle?

These, too, are red flags.

If you need some assessment help, hire a driver rehabilitation specialist who’s trained to evaluate older drivers. To locate a specialist see driver-ed.org or aota.org/older-driver.

Transition Tips Through your assessments, if you believe it’s still safe for your dad to drive, you may want to start recommending some simple adjustments to ensure his safety, like driving only in daylight and on familiar routes, and avoiding busy roads and bad weather. Also, see if he will sign an Alzheimer’s “driving contract” (see alz.org/driving to print one) that designates someone to tell him when it’s no longer safe to drive.

In addition, you should also consider getting a GPS vehicle tracking system for his car (like motosafety.com or mobicopilot.com) to help you keep an eye on him. These devices will let you track exactly where he’s driving, and allow you to set up zones and speed limits that will notify you via email or text message when he exits an area or arrives at a designated location, and if he’s driving too fast.

driving, so he can prepare himself.

You also need to have a plan for alternative transportation (including a list of family, friends and local transportation services) that will help your dad get around after he stops driving.

For tips on how to talk to your dad, the Hartford Financial Services Group and MIT AgeLab offers a variety of resources at safedrivingforalifetime. com - click on “Dementia and Driving.”

Refuses To Quit If your dad refuses to quit you have several options. First, suggest a visit to his doctor who can give them a medical evaluation, and “prescribe” that he stops driving. Older people will often listen to their doctor before they will listen to their own family.

If he still refuses, contact your local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to see if they can help. Some states require doctors to report new dementia cases to the DMV, who can revoke the person’s license.

Time to Quit

If all these fail, consider hiding his keys or just take them away. You could also disable his vehicle, park it in another location so he can’t see it or have access to it, or sell it.

When your dad’s driving gets to the point that he can no longer drive safely, you’ll need to talk to him. It’s actually best to start having these conversations in the early stages of the disease, before he needs to quit

(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.)

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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.

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 843-3833.

Visit the Library’s website: www.lawrence.lib.ks.us.

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Leisure and Learning CataLog

Leisure and Learning Catalog - Course Description

• 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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

• 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.

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HEALTH & FITNESS

Yoga for Every Body (Douglas County Senior Services) Tuesdays, May 5 - June 30, 3-4 p.m. Fee: $30. Location: Lawrence Senior Center.

Instructor: Susan Rieger.

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.

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, 832-7950.

Pickleball - Open Play (Lawrence Parks and Recreation) Monday-Friday at Lyons Park 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.

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.

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

Location: Lawrence Senior Center.

EDUCATION, HOBBY & FINANCE AARP Smart Driver Course (Douglas County Senior Services) Thursday and Friday, July 16 & 17, 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.

Fundamentals of Estate Planning (Douglas County Senior Services & Lawrence Parks and Recreation) Tuesday, August 25, 2-3:30 p.m.

Fee: None. Location: Carnegie Building, East Gallery, 200 West Ninth St. Instructor: Robert Ramsdell.

Death is a certainty, incapacity a possibility. You need to plan for both. Fundamentals of Estate Planning will help you create those plans. The class covers what happens under intestate succession if you die without a plan; the uses of a Will or Revocable Living Trust; an overview of probate administration; the impact of estate and gift taxes; non-testamentary transfer options, such as holding property in a joint tenancy; powers of attorney for financial and healthcare decision-making; Living Wills and Do Not Resuscitate Directives; and a very general overview of how limitations on Medicaid eligibility might affect your assets. The presentation lasts about an hour, followed by an open question-and-answer period. No need to register.

American Mah Jongg (Lawrence Parks and Recreation) Wednesdays, July 15-August 19, 7-9 p.m. Fee: $35 Location: Castle Tea Room.

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.

Leisure and Learning CataLog

Altered Books (Lawrence Parks and Recreation) Wednesdays, June 10-24, 6:308:30 p.m. Fee: $60 Location: Community Building Have you been saving family photos, greeting cards, postcards and letters for a someday project?

Use those precious mementos to turn an old, neglected book into something new, meaningful and completely unique! All levels of creativity and artistic experience welcome! Enrollment includes all materials and supplies. Instructor: Bridey Stangler. Register at www.lprd.org or any Lawrence Recreation Center.

Writing Our Family Stories (Lawrence Parks and Recreation) Wednesdays, June 3-24, 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! We all have 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.

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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.

ART 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.

Continued on page 10

SAVE GAS • SAVE TIME • SHOP LOCAL Why Leave town for your Sleep Apnea Equipment and Supplies?

• In-Stock Products • Accredited Staff

• Saturday Service • We Bill Insurance

Tell Your Doctor... I Choose

Criticare

1006 W. 6th, Lawrence 785-749-4878 • 800-527-9596 • www.criticarehhs.com

Locally owned and operated for over 25 years.

60 & Better Page 10

Continued from page 9

Painters Palette (Lawrence Parks and Recreation) Saturdays, June 13 and 27, 9:30 a.m. - Noon. Location: Community Building 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 and attend on the second and fourth Saturday of each month. Bring your own supplies, suggested supply list available from instructor. Instructor: Lori Dalrymple. No registration required, fee of $20 applies to each drop-in session attended.

MUSIC Beginning Ukulele (Lawrence Parks and Recreation) Wednesdays, July 15-August 5, 6:00-7:00 p.m. Fee: $29 Location: Castle Tea Room This beginning uke course will cover tuning, basic chords and beginning strum patterns.

Share the fun while learning to

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Leisure and Learning CataLog

play commonly known songs.

Students brand new to ukulele are welcome! Ukuleles are not provided. If you are considering buying one, please contact the instructor before class and she will guide you in buying a good starter one. Come share the joy of Aloha!

Instructor: Linda Tilton. Register at www.lprd.org or any Lawrence Recreation Center.

New Horizons Band (Douglas County Senior Services) (Resumes in the fall) Intergenerational Choir (Douglas County Senior Services) (Resumes in the fall) ENTERTAINMENT Theatre Lawrence Dress Rehearsal (Douglas County Senior Services) South Pacific by Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II, from the Pulitzer Prize novel by James Michener Thursday, June 11, show starts at 7:30 p.m. Fee: None. Location:

Theatre Lawrence.

TONY AWARD WINNER! 1950 (10 of them!) and again for Revival in 2008 Set in an island paradise during World War II, two parallel love stories are threatened by the dangers of prejudice and war.

Nellie, a spunky nurse, falls in love with a French planter, while Lt. Joe Cable loves an innocent Tonkinese girl. Songs include Some Enchanted Evening, Nothing Like a Dame, and Bali Ha’i.

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 youíd 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)

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.

- Lawrence Senior Center, Monday, Wednesday, Friday, 8 a.m.

DAY/SHORT TRIPS

Bingo (Ongoing)

Watch for information about trips in upcoming issues of 60 & Better. Check the Group Getaways website: www.mygroupgetaways. net.

- Lawrence Senior Center: Thursdays, 11-11:45 a.m.

ALSO HAPPENING at Senior Services...

Kansas Commission on Veterans’ Affairs presentation June 17 Join Veteran Service Representative Rick Massey for a discussion on cash assistance provided by the VA for lowincome veterans and surviving spouses age 65 and over.

The presentation will be held Wednesday, June 17 at 1:30 p.m. at the Lawrence Senior Center. For information, call 785-843-5233.

- Baldwin Senior Center, Monday - Friday, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

- Eudora Dining Center: Wednesdays, 12:30-1 p.m.

60 & Better Page 11

1 DCSS Caregiver Support

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

2 Grief Support Group, 10:30

a.m., Pioneer Ridge,4851 Harvard Road, in association with Grace Hospice. For information call Dave Jenkins, 85-228-0400.

3 Kaw Valley Older Womens

League (OWL), 2-3:30 p.m., Kenneth Doud Room, United Way Building, 2518 Ridge Court. Social time begins at 1:30.

8 Breast Cancer Support Group,

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

JUNE 2015 CALENDAR OF EVENTS

16 Stroke Support Group, 4 p.m.,

Lawrence Memorial Hospital.

For more information call 785-505-2886.

for those new to Medicare. For information call 842-0543.

17 Kansas Veteranâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Commission

discussion of benefits for lowincome veterans and surviving spouses, 1:30 p.m., Lawrence Senior Center. For information call Rick Massey at 843-5233.

2015

16 Grief Support Group, 10:30

a.m., Pioneer Ridge,4851 Harvard Road, in association with Grace Hospice. For information call Dave Jenkins at 785-228-0400.

17 Douglas County Coalition on

Aging (DCCOA), 8 a.m., Lawrence Senior Center.

17 Welcome to Medicare Meeting,

12 to 1 p.m., Lawrence Senior Center. Informational meeting

18 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.

22 Breast Cancer Support Group,

5:30 p.m., Presbyterian Manor, 1429 Kasold. For information, call 8425250 or 840-2768.

The University Bridge Club of Lawrence meets Saturdays from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Contact Cora at 842-5567 for more information.

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

compassion

12 Lawrence Chronic Illness

Support Group, Location varies.

Please call Rachel at 9795393 or Jean at 865-0016 for information.

15 DCSS Caregiver Support

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

16 Parkinsonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Support Group, 2

p.m., First Presbyterian Church.

For more information call Elaine, 760-1026.

Home Health | Hospice | Rehabilitation | Private Duty (785) 843-3738 www.kansasvna.org

60 & Better Page 12

JUNE

Menu EntrĂŠes Monday, June 1 - BBQ Pulled Pork Tuesday, June 2 - Tomato and Basil Chicken Wednesday, June 3 - Hamburger Thursday, June 4 - Caribbean Chicken with Rice Friday, June 5 - Ham Salad Monday, June 8 - Sloppy Joe Tuesday, June 9 - Ham, Macaroni and Cheese Wednesday, June 10 - Chicken Spaghetti Thursday, June 11 - Smothered Steak Friday, June 12 - Chicken Salad Monday, June 15 - Meatloaf Tuesday, June 16 - Chicken Strips Wednesday, June 17 - Sweet & Sour Chicken and Rice Thursday, June 18 - Beef Enchiladas Friday, June 19 - Tuna Salad Monday, June 22 - Sweet Meatballs and Rice Tuesday, June 23 - BBQ Beef Wednesday, June 24 - Chicken Lasagna Thursday, June 25 - Beef Hot Dog Friday, June 26 - Chicken Sandwich Monday, June 29 - Polish Sausage Tuesday, June 30 - Beef Goulash (Menu subject to change without notice.)

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. 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.

60 & Better Page 13

DINING CENTER LOCATIONS Please call by 11 a.m. on the day before to make a reservation. All meals are served by Noon. All DCSS Dining Centers meet accessibility guidelines established by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

A donation of $3.25 per meal is suggested. To cancel a meal at any of the dining centers please call 785-842-0543 and leave a message.

Lawrence Senior Center

Johnetta Brown, coordinator 842-0543 745 Vermont, Lawrence

Babcock Dining Center

Margaret Hawkins, coordinator 842-6976 Babcock Place Apartments 17th & Massachusetts, Lawrence

Eudora Dining Center

Carol Mason, coordinator 760-2102 Pinecrest II Apts.

924 Walnut, Eudora

Baldwin Senior Center

Maxine Scott, coordinator (785) 594-2409 1221 Indiana, Baldwin City For information about meals in Lecompton, call 842-0543.

“What’s for lunch?”

“Grab & Go” Senior Carry-out Meals Available On the go? In a hurry? No time to sit and eat?

Senior Meals Grab & Go is the answer!

Register now to become a Senior Health Insurance Counseling for Kansas (SHICK) Volunteer There’s still time to register for our annual SHICK volunteer training. Learn how to help Medicare beneficiaries with their health insurance questions. The 3-day training will be held at the Lawrence Senior Center on August 18, 19, and 20. Volunteers may also help in our DCSS SHICK Call Center a few hours a week. If you’re interested in hearing more about this rewarding volunteer opportunity, please contact Criss Tomlin, SHICK Coordinator at Douglas County Senior Services, (785) 842-0543.

LAWRENCE PUBLIC LIBRARY BOOKTALKS Join Pattie Johnston once a month at one of the following locations for an informal, lively discussion of a variety of materials available from the main library collection or from the Bookmobile. You need not be a resident of the site to attend. The public is invited!

THIRD TUESDAY OF EACH MONTH: 10 a.m. - Neuvant House, 1216 Biltmore Dr. 2 p.m. - Cottonwood Retirees, 1029 New Hampshire St. 3 p.m. - Babcock Place, 1700 Massachusetts St. THIRD WEDNESDAY OF EACH MONTH: 10:30 a.m. - Brandon Woods, 1501 Inverness Dr. 1 p.m. - Prairie Commons, 5121 Congressional Circle 2:15 p.m. - Presbyterian Manor, 1429 Kasold Dr. FOURTH WEDNESDAY OF EACH MONTH: 9:45 a.m. - Midland Care*, 319 Perry St. 1 p.m. - Pioneer Ridge Assisted Living, 4851 Harvard Rd. 2:30 p.m. - Arbor Court, 510 St. Andrews Dr.

Carry-out meals are available to seniors age 60 and over and their spouses who need a fast, nutritious meal on the go. Call any Senior Dining Center at least a day in advance to reserve your meal, and it will be ready to Grab & Go. A donation of $3.25 per meal is suggested. For *This is a secured site; please call for more information. more information about the Senior Dining Center nearest you, see the listings in this newsletter. Home Get organized this summer. delivered meals for homebound Let me help you clear out seniors are also available.

HOME TOO CLUTTERED?

Call the Senior Meals Program at 842-0543 for information.

the clutter & simplify your home and your life!

Organize U. (785) 843-8345 margcarlson@sunflower.com

Marguerite Carlson

60 & Better Page 14

LEGALESE

by Molly Wood

on their promises, they are taking on unacceptable risk.

Financial exploitation of the elderly by family members and caregivers is one of the most heartbreaking and intractable problems I’m called upon to address. Quite naturally, most parents trust their children and grandchildren and want to help them.

But when elderly parents compromise their own financial security on the assumption that their adult children will be willing and able to make good

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Most of my clients are no longer earning significant income.

Rather, they are relying on their accumulated savings, property, and retirement income for subsistence.

They are likely to have significant health problems - we all know how burdensome the cost of prescription medication can be - and many seniors need assistance with yard work, home maintenance, transportation, housekeeping, meal preparation, and other chores that they used to perform themselves but for which they must now hire assistance. In other words, the cost of living for senior citizens is going up at a time they are facing increasing expenses. It is foolish to make loans or gifts of money or property that should be retained for one’s own independent subsistence.

In this context, here are a couple of true-life scenarios - actual Kansas cases of which I have personal knowledge - upon which you can go to school: • 70ish out-of-state widow signed a $200,000 check (proceeds from the sale of her home) over to her daughter and son-in-law so that they could purchase a home in Kansas for the whole family. The daughter squandered most of the money, bought the home with a mortgage, and now the mother’s home is in foreclosure because the children couldn’t make the payments.

• 83-year-old widow appointed her granddaughter as her agent under a Durable Power of Attorney.

The granddaughter wrote checks for gifts for herself and her children - furniture, computers, exercise videos, etc. - until the grandmother’s $40,000 nest-egg was all spent.

• Elderly couple bought another home so that one of their nephews could make the payments and gradually become a home-owner himself - except he was unable to pay the mortgage, and he moved a couple of his ne’er-do-well friends into the house who also felt no obligation to pay rent. The couple is faced with evicting their nephew and his friends and paying to have the property cleaned up so it can be sold, and they can get out from under the mortgage.

• 75-year-old widower’s son used a Power of Attorney to withdraw all of his father’s IRA - over $100,000 - and spent it shoring up the son’s failing business. Not only is the money gone, the retiree is making payments to the IRS for the income taxes that became due when his tax-deferred savings was withdrawn.

Although it is shocking, these things happen every day. And the worst part is that the legal remedies we have against the bad actors are slow, expensive, and unsatisfying. If your son

took all your retirement savings and spent it on “lifestyle vacations” - restaurant meals and liquor, jewelry, and the like - or business expenses, the money is gone, and it is very difficult to squeeze repayment money out of deadbeats. Many times, the children claim these transfers of wealth were “gifts.” Even if you and I know these children are liars and thieves, it will be timeconsuming and expensive to prove it. Will you have the money to hire a lawyer to pursue them? Will you have the mental fortitude to undertake the pursuit?

Don’t run any risks with your financial independence. Many of us have reliable, trustworthy children, and we want to help those we love. Those who love you, however, would not want you to assume the risk of becoming needy and dependent.

(Editor’s Note: Molly M. Wood is a partner at Stevens & Brand, LLP in Lawrence, Kansas where she confines her practice to Elder Law, especially seniors with long-term care issues. If you have a legal question or concern, call the Kansas Elder Law Hotline, a toll-free legal advice and referral service for Kansas Seniors, 1-(888)-353-5337. An Elder Law Project attorney is available in Lawrence by appointment at Douglas County Senior Services, 842-0543.)

60 & Better Page 15

O.U.R.S.

(Oldsters United for Responsible Service)

Dances • June 2015

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 $7 per person. Everyone welcome.

SUNDAY, JUNE 7

SUNDAY, JUNE 21

SUNDAY, JUNE 14

SUNDAY, JUNE 28

Country Melody

Barbed Wire

Dr. Cook’s Medicine Show

Business Meeting 5 p.m.)

Borderline Country

DCSS Board of Directors Dennis Domer, Chair

Judy Wright,Vice Chair

Kathy Clausing-Willis, Secretary

Doni Mooberry, Treasurer

Judy Bellome Kelly Calvert

Dr. Phil Godwin Hank Booth

Ellen Paulsen Steve Tesdahl

60 & Better Page 16

Experience the latest in hearing aid technology!

Oticon’s Inium circuit is available in all models and uses smart frequency shifting and phase inversion technologies to suppress feedback while still maintaining a high level of audibility. Users experience the best possible signal fidelity through quiet operation and clearer distinctiveness of sounds.

Siemens’ Aquaris model is the only truly waterproof, rustproof, and shockproof hearing aid available. Siemens also makes rechargeable hearing aids and hearing aids that mask tinnitus while amplifying.

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

Marston Hearing Center is an authorized dealer for Oticon, Phonak, Resound, Starkey, and other major brands. We provide parts and in-house repairs for most hearing aids as well as manufacturer repairs on all makes of hearing aids.

Call Gerald Whiteside, Au.D., CCC-A today!

Editor: Janet Ikenberry Executive Director: Kristin Scheurer

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