Unprecedented wealth transfer: A historic opportunity for rural Minnesota
Senior Center celebrates 40 years Page 10
Don’t stop believing: New law on birth records takes effect
Buying a car after 65: criteria to consider
Classes and programs for seniors offered through Community Education
Prevention and management of
By Celeste Edenlo Alexandria Echo Press
Lymphedema is a condition that is characterized by chronic swelling of an extremity, including the arm or leg, but it can also occur in the breast or the trunk region.
Two rehabilitation services specialists at Alomere Health – Andrea Nyberg and Sonia Heibel – have provided information about this chronic disease.
They said the affected area mayfeelheavyorfullandpeople may experience a decrease in movement. Additional symptoms include a dull ache or a feeling of tightness in the affected limb.
There are several causes for lymphedema, including
having surgery that includes removal of lymph nodes or radiation/trauma to a lymph nodeareaoravenoussurgery/ insufficiency.
Heibel said that lymphedema may develop days, months oryearsafterthesurgery,trauma or an infection has taken place.
Nyberg said there a few goals when it comes to lymphedema treatment, including the following:
Maintaining a normal or near-normal size of limb
Eliminating scar tissue
Avoiding re-accumulation of lymph fluid
Preventing or eliminating infections
Nyberg and Heibel shared the approach rehabilitation experts at Alomere Health use
when treating patients with lymphedema.
Patients would first have an evaluation completed by a Certified Lymphedema Therapist. And then, the following would also occur:
Manual lymphatic drainage techniques – this is a gentle massage technique used to redirect lymphatic fluid to the healthy lymph node areas.
Exercise – decongestive exercises are performed by the patient to help further reduce swelling while compression is in place.
Extensive patient education – patients are instructed on skin care, massage, bandaging, exercises and garment instruction to help manage their lymphedema independently in their home.
ABOUT TH EXPERTS
Nyberg graduated from St. Cloud State University with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Therapeutic Recreation. She then attended St. Catherine University, graduating with a Master of Arts in Occupational Therapy. She received her certifica-
tion in lymphedema training and education in 2010. She specializes in lymphedema, orthopedic, neurological and general medicine diagnoses. She has worked at Alomere Health (formerly Douglas County Hospital) since 2009.
Heibel obtained her Occupational Therapy Assistant degree from North Dakota State College of Science in Wahpeton, ND. She has been working as a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant for Alomere Health since 1995. Prior to that, she spent three years working for the Special Education Coop in Fergus Falls. Heibel was trained as a Certified Lymphedema Therapist in 2010. She has also received additional training in managing visual deficits, orthopedic injuries, and rehabilitation of neurological conditions.
For more information about Alomere Health’s Lymphedema Program or to schedule an appointment, contact Rehab Services at 320-762-6079.
Andrea Nyberg, who works at Alomere Health, specializes in lymphedema, orthopedic, neurological and general medicine diagnoses. Contributed photo / Alomere Health
Andrea Nyberg Alomere Health
Sonia Heibel Alomere Health
CHEF-DRIVEN DYNAMICMENU IN APOLISHEDYET CASUALSETTING
OUTDOORBAR FIREPLACE
FIREPITS HEATEDPORCH
11030TH AVENUEWEST, ALEXANDRIA NEXT TO VIKINGPLAZAMALL
DON’T STOP BELIEVING
New law on birth records takes effect
By Julie Anderson Douglas County Public Information O cer
When we are children, most of us believe anything is possible. As we age, we learn that roadblocks can interfere with what’s possible. But a special group kept believing for more than 20 years and has successfully passed a law that allows all Minnesota-born adopted persons the right to access their original birth certificate.
Penny Needham is a leader of that special group called Minnesota Coalition for Adoption Reform. She, and AlexandriaresidentPatGlisky, who is a leader of Concerned United Birthparents, worked tirelessly for decades to convince lawmakers it is a funda-
mental right for adoptees to have access to the document that contains the basic information of their birth.
“It’s a human right to have our own, accurate document,” Needham said. “It’s the first official document that labels you as a person.”
Needham is an adoptee whose devoted adoptive parents lived in Alexandria for 25 years after they retired. Needhamwas39yearsoldwhenshe discovered her birth parents were also from the Douglas County area. She had to work throughanadoptionagencyto access her information. Needham says her birth parents were overjoyed to meet her.
Pictured, from left, are Pat Glisky, Greg Luce and Penny Needham.
Contributed photo / Julie Anderson
Turns out, she learned, a year after they placed her for adoption, her birth parents reunited and married.
Needham has four full siblings, all girls. She is Godmother to the daughter of one of her sisters.
She, Glisky, and attorney Greg Luce who founded the Adoptee Rights Law Center, explained the new law at an event held at the Douglas County Library June 15. As Douglas County Public Information Officer, I often cover events held at the library. This one was special because I’ve known Needham since I worked as a television journalist in the Twin Cities and reported on her and MCAR’s efforts. That was 17 years ago. It’sbeenanemotionaljourney. “It’s been like pushing a rock up a hill,” Needham said. “It took so long. We had lawmakers, like (retired) Rep. Kathy Tingelstad, who had sponsored our legislation years ago, continue to support our goal and advise us from the sidelines,” said Needham. Those attending the information session shared how much
ADOPTION
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they appreciated the perseverance. Wiping tears from their eyes, they applauded and thanked them for not giving up. Most of the adoptees attending are well into middle age.
Glisky was the only birth parent at the meeting. She shared that when she placed her son for adoption decades ago, she was not told his original birth certificate would be sealed.Sheandhersonreunited in what she calls an overwhelming experience. “Like us, many people involved in the sealed adoptions are older now,” Glisky said. “Access to their original birth certificate will be the missing piece of the puzzle.”
TheMinnesotaDepartment of Health mailed a large postcard to every household in the state alerting residents to the new law and sharing a website fullofinformation.Thatsiteis www.MNrecordsaccess2024. com.
Under the new law, birth parents can file a Contact Preference Form stating their preference for contact by the adoptee. There are three choices: I would like to be contacted, I would like to be contacted through an intermediary, or I would not like to be contacted at this time. There is also space to provide any information they think
The Birth Parent Contact Preference Form has been available since August 2023. An older system of Affidavits of Disclosure/Non-DisclosuresexpiredonJune30,2024.
As of July 1, when an adopted person applies for their original birth record, the state will include information from a Contact Preference Form.
To receive their original birthrecord,adoptees18years of age and older, must go to the Minnesota Department of Health website, print an application, fill it out and send it in. The original birth record will likely contain vital statistics and the name of the birth mother, but Attorney Luce told attendees not to expect the name of a birth father. Minnesota birth certificate forms have changed over the years and vary from decade to decade. No additional updated information on the current
name or location of the birth parentswillbeincludedunless it has been provided by a birth parent.
Luce crafted the legislation that finally passed. “This means adoptees are treated as equal to everyone else,” he said. “It’s a very emotional acknowledgement of who we are.”
And, it’s proof that no matter how long it takes, it’s worth it to keep believing.
Compassionate CareSince1983
www.hospicedouglascounty.org
Elm Street, Suite 1200
Alexandria, MN
We welcomereferralsfromphysicians,discharge planners,socialworkers,familymembers,andcase managers.Formoreinformation,torequestanon-site evaluationofyourpatient,ortoarrangeatourofour facility,pleasecontactourtherapydepartmentat 218-338-1014.
Julie Anderson
UNPRECEDENTED WEALTH TRANSFER: A historic opportunity for rural Minnesota
By A.J. Koewler Executive Director, Alexandria Area Community Foundation
The United States is currently experiencing the largest generational wealth transfer in history, with an estimated $84 trillion set to change hands over the next two decades, according to an article on the Philanthropy News website.
could transform rural communities, especially in Douglas and Pope Counties.
The Scope of Wealth Transfer in Central Minnesota projected that because of demographictrends,economic factors and household wealth growth, the wealth transfer in this region is expected to average $560 million annually over the next decade.
This significant movement of assets underscores the potential for substantial community impact through strategic and thoughtful planning.
A.J. Koewler Executive Director, Alexandria Area Community Foundation
This monumental shift is occurring at an accelerated pace in rural communities, especially in Greater Minnesota, where demographicsskewolderthan urban areas.
A new study by University of Minnesota researcher Ben Winchester, highlights that $5.6 billion in wealth across 10 counties in central Minnesota will transfer within the next decade. This transition presents unprecedented opportunities for grantmaking, endowments and local investments that
For instance, Douglas County alone is projected to seea10-yeartransferof$529.3 million, while Pope County will experience a transfer of $133.8 million. Over the next 50 years, these figures soar to $3.2 billion for Douglas County and $765.4 million for Pope County.
The current net worth of Douglas County stands at $13.8 billion, with Pope County at $3.4 billion.
WHAT THIS MEANS FOR OUR COMMUNITY
This study illustrates a critical opportunity to shape the future trajectory of our community. By being strategic about this wealth transfer (which has already begun), we can significantly impact local initiatives and projects.
If just 5% of the 10-year transfer of wealth was to be put to work for good in communities across Central Minnesota, that equates to nearly $280 million to be used for local impact.
While many people may not consider themselves
wealthy, wealth encompasses more than just liquid assets. It includes homes, land, stocks, bonds, retirement accounts, farm equipment, businesses and life insurance policies. All these assets contribute to your overall wealth and are crucial components of your estate.
TAKING ACTION WITH THE ALEXANDRIA AREA COMMUNITY FOUNDATION
As Shez Christopher wisely stated, “If you do not have a plan or a will for your estate, the government has one for you.”
Planning for the transfer of your wealth ensures that your assets benefit the causes and people you care about rather than being subject to external decisions.
The Alexandria Area Community Foundation is here to assist you in navigating this significant transition. We offer personalized, conciergelevel service to help you understand the most effective
charitable giving strategies and the local opportunities where your contributions can make the most significant impact.
When crafting your will or estate plan, consider the advantages of setting aside a portion of your wealth to the charitable causes that you care about most.
By engaging in thoughtful estateplanning,youcanleavea lasting legacy that enriches our community for generations to come. The current wealth transfer is not just a financial event; it’s a pivotal moment to invest in the future of Greater Minnesota. Join in seizing this opportunitytocreateapositive and lasting impact.
For more information on how you can participate in this historic wealth transfer and contribute to our community’s future, please contact A.J. Koewler with the Alexandria Area Community Foundation.
UNLOCKING BETTER HEARING
By Gina Christopherson Legacy Hearing Centers
Across the U.S. and the world, thousands of people are suffering from hearing loss and its related communication difficulties.
Many of those will seek help in bringing the sounds around them back into focus and getting back into the conversationsthatmakelifejoyful.One of the first things you need to do if you are looking to leap back into living life fully with better hearing is understandingyourhealthinsurancebenefits.
It is essential that you take the initiative to make the call to your insurance carrier or log into your plan through your carrier’s website so that you understand your insurance benefits fully before you take to finding your hearing
healthcare professional.
Some insurance plans offer funded benefits while others have specific discount plans associated with their members. Knowing this information is imperative to making wise financial decisions regarding your care.
Sometimes online options are great for saving some money, but not all are created equally.
We recently had a patient in our office who had purchased a pair of hearing aids from a company online. This person wanted us to check their insurance to see if they were getting the “best deal” they could for their insurance. So, with their permission, we checked their insurance.
Turns out that wasn’t the best option for their insurance.
With our help in double
checking their insurance, they were able to save just over $3,000. They have since made the decision to return their online purchase and have pursued other avenues to take care of their hearing.
This is one reason why it is imperative to know your benefits before shopping.
In Minnesota, all supplemental insurances must have some form of discount program or other benefit to help with the cost of hearing care. Always double check your coverage so that you know what is available to you.
Alexandria Senior Center celebrates 40 YEARS
By Shelli-Kae Foster Alexandria Senior Center
Providing services to our older citizens has a long history. In fact, my mother, Terri Sonstegard, got her first job at the Douglas County Office of Aging in 1948.
And now in 2024, this community continues to value and
support our older adults with the Alexandria Senior Center as the hub for providing services to support healthy, active living for our older citizens.
Of course, we must remember Kathryn LeBrasseur for her passion and drive to start the Center in 1984. After much research and conversations, Kathryn remarks in her recorded history that
“In order to have an activity center for seniors, it became necessary for the Alexandria senior citizens to do it themselves!”
And they did; through popcorn sales, bake and craft sales, and a variety of fundraisers. The county donated $47,000 of revenue sharing to kick things off, each club in the county held a fundraiser with the funds donated to the Senior Center to create a county-wide “home base” for seniors.
Large and small donations came in until the funds were raisedtobuildtheSeniorCen-
Tips for caring for AGING SKIN
By Newspaper Toolbox
As you age, your skin undergoes several changes, including the loss of elasticity, thinning and dryness. These changes can make your skin more prone to damage and infection. Here are a few tips to help you keep your skin healthy:
1. Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water to help keep your skin hydrated and healthy.
ter where it remains 40 years later at 414 Hawthorne Street in downtown Alexandria.
Through the years, volunteers and staff have continued the tradition of self-supporting the Senior Center and keeping its status as an independent 501c3. Government support, grants, sponsorships, membership and activity fees and rental income all contribute to the financial stability of the Senior Center.
We are now excited to celebrate with our community on Aug.25,2024,from3to7p.m.
Here is the line-up for “CelebratingourSeniors–40years at the Alexandria Senior Center:”
3 to 4 p.m. – dance lessons, bicycle rides with Cycling without Age and tours of the Alexandria Senior Center.
4 to 7 p.m. – Street dance begins featuring the Julie Lee Band, Smokin’ Brews and ‘Ques, cake and special remarks by our city and county officials.
I would like to give a special thank you to our sponsors to date – Sanford Health, Knute Nelson/Walker Methodist, Cenex, Dave and Jan Dilley, REA-Operation Round Up, Alomere Health and Elden’s Fresh Foods.
daily to keep your skin supple and hydrated.
3. Protect your skin from thesun. Apply sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher every day, and wear protective clothing, such as long-sleeved shirts, hats and sunglasses when you’re outside.
4. Eat a balanced diet. Eat a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean protein and healthy fats to help keep your skin healthy and radiant.
5. Get enough sleep. Lack of sleep can take a toll on your skin, so it’s important to get
enough rest. Aim for at least seven hours of sleep a night.
6. Be gentle. Avoid using harsh soaps and hot water, which can strip your skin of its natural oils. Use mild cleansers and lukewarm water instead.
By following these tips, you can keep your skin healthy and glowing as you age.
Shelli-Kae Foster Alexandria Senior Center
Photo courtesy of Newspaper Toolbox
BUYING A CAR AFTER 65:
By Newspaper Toolbox
When buying a car after age 65, it’s essential to take a thoughtful approach that prioritizes safety and comfort and adapts to your changing needs. Here are a few things to consider when car shopping.
EASY TO GET IN AND OUT OF
Choose a vehicle with an appropriate seat height that makes getting in and out of the car easy. Models with wide doors and seats positioned at a level that suit your anatomy are ideal.
OPTIMUM VISIBILITY
Visibility is crucial to safety at the wheel, so choose a car
with good all-round visibility. Look for vehicles with blind spot sensors, reversing cameras and other driver assistance systems that can be particularly helpful.
COMFORT AND ADJUSTMENTS
Comfort is critical, especially on long outings. Electric-powered seats, an adjustable steering wheel and simplifiedcontrolsprovideamore enjoyable driving experience.
SAFETY
Your safety is paramount, so chooseacarwithfeaturessuch as anti-lock brakes (ABS), well-positioned airbags, driver assistance systems and automatic emergency braking.
HANDLING
A car that’s easy to control is an advantage, especially when driving in cities. Compact models with power steering offer better handling, making for a smoother and safer ride.
Finally, don’t forget to con-
sider your needs and preferences. Consider factors like the load capacity, seat material and additional features such as a heated steering wheel. To ensure you make an informed decision, seek advice from one or more dealerships in your area and schedule a test drive.
Photo courtesy of Adobestock
Classes and programs for seniors offered through COMMUNITY EDUCATION
By Celeste Edenlo Alexandria Echo Press
Community Education in Alexandria offers a variety of programs for adults. Below is just a sampling of what is offered.
For more classes and information about registering, visit alexandria.ce.eleyo.comorcall the Community Education office at 320-762-3310 ext. 2.
DIY Mystery Craft Kits for Adults (home delivery or pick-up) – Create a modern and fresh craft project that will enhance your home. The art project for each month will have a seasonal or home décor theme. All materials are provided along with step-by-step instructions. Kits will be available to pick up or shipped by the 25th of the month, depending on preference during registration.
Pickleball (every month at Discovery Middle School) –Pickleball is an exciting game created for any age to play and enjoy. It combines badminton, ping pong and tennis. It can be played with two, three or four players and is very easy to learn, not to mention fun to play. Silver Sneakers is also accepted as well.
Create and Sip – porch sign (The Design Station) –Wednesday, July 17 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. A custom sign for your cabin or porch is such a welcoming addition to your home. Bring your preferred
beverage and create a sign that represents your family or your attitude. Let your creativity flow.
Alexandria Cribbage Social (community room at Grand Arbor) – Monday July 22 or Aug. 19 at 4 p.m. Alexandria Community Education in collaboration with Grand Arbor have teamed up to offer a Senior Cribbage Social. Participantsmustbeover50years old. Team up with someone and register a team of two people.
Navigating the AI Revolution (at Discovery Middle School) – Artificial intelligence (AI) is no longer just sciencefiction–it’sheretoday. Whether you’re actively using itornot,AIispartofourdaily lives. In late 2022, advanced AI systems capable of creating human-like text and images became widely available, bringing both incredible opportunities and challenges. This course begins with an overview of AI, its capabilities and limitations. Subsequent sessions will delve into various topics based on attendees’ interests, such as how to use AI effectively, AI’s impact on daily life (at home, school and work), the underlying technology, avoiding AI-enabled scams, privacy and security issues and the broader societal implications of AI.
The AARP® Driver Safety course is the nation’s first and largest refresher course designed specifically for drivers 50 and older. If you are 55 or older and have successfully completed the 8-hour course, then you are eligible to renew your insurance certificate by taking this 4-hour course.
YogaintheGardens (at the Legacy of the Lakes Gardens) – August and September. Yoga has so many health benefits for mind, body and spirit, especially in the beautiful gardens at the Legacy of the Lakes museum. Yoga equally strengthens and stretches, increasing flexibility and repairingmuscles.It’sallabout relaxing and allowing yourself and your body to have as much relaxation as you want.
Fall Film Series (at the theater in Grand Arbor) – September through December. Twice a month, you will have the opportunity to view either a documentary or a foreign film. You may wish to stay after the movie for a discussion of the film led by a member of the film study group.
Write Your Own Will (on your computer) – Online class on Tuesday, Sept. 10 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. This online course is conducted by Jim Ramette, Attorney at Law. He will help you to write your own will in an engaging and interesting seminar format. He will
present a short background on wills, and then explain the unique legal PDF will he developed, which allows you to write, and change, a will for your circumstances. You may change/update your will – privately in your home – as often as you decide without additional cost.
MedicareBasics (atDiscovery Middle School) – Tuesday, Sept. 17, from 5 to 6:30 p.m. This is a free class. Approaching 65? Retiring soon? Have questions about Medicare plans? Learn the ABC and D of Medicare. Review the four parts of Medicare and what each one covers. Understand enrollment timelines, tips and reminders and learn about thingstoconsiderasyoucompare Medicare plans.This class is sponsored by UCare. Senior Housing Tour –Tuesday, Sept. 24. Is a change of housing in the future for you or a loved one? Learn about some of the choices in the Alexandria area (senior apartments, adult foster care facilities, and 55+ housing communities). After a short informational session, board a school bus and visit two to three senior housing sites. The bus will have wheelchair accessibility. Sites will be finalized about two weeks before the tour date. Depending on the site, the tour may include walking longer distances.
Are you dealing with low vision? It’s not uncommon for your eyes to weaken as you age, but that doesn’t mean you can’t make some simple adjustments to improve your living space. Here are five low-vision accommodations that can make a big difference:
1. Brighten things up. Add table and floor lamps in areas of your living space which may be dim or shadowy, such as entries and stairways.
2. Control glare. Use window blinds and drapes to control glare and hang mirrors in areas that won’t produce a reflection.
3. Use contrast. Contrasting colors can help you dis-
tinguish between different objects and surfaces in your living space. For example, placing light-colored objects against dark backgrounds, and vice versa, can make them stand out more. You can also usepaintinacontrastingcolor tomarkelectricaloutlets,oven dials and other items for easy identification.
4. Secure flooring. Replace old, worn or wrinkled carpeting and rugs that could cause tripping. Use non-skid, non-glare cleaners on smooth floors to prevent falls.
5.Labelandmark. Use color-coded labels to distinguish between medicines, spices, foods and other items. You can also use tactile markers, such as raised dots or lines, to differentiate between items.
5 activities for older adults with
LIMITED MOBILITY
By Newspaper Toolbox
For older adults with limited mobility, staying active and engaged can be challenging. However, many activities are tailored to accommodate various physical abilities, ensuring everyone can enjoy a fulfilling and enriching lifestyle. Here are five examples:
1. Chair yoga. Chair yoga offers a gentle and effective way to improve flexibility, strength and balance while seated in a sturdy chair. It involves a series of modified yoga poses and breathing exercises designed to promote relaxation and enhance overall well-being.
2.Indoorgardening. Tending to indoor plants or a small garden can be therapeutic for older adults with limited mobility. Whether growing
These modifications can be done gradually over time and are often simple and inexpen-
herbs, flowers or succulents, gardening promotes sensory stimulation,reducesstressand provides a sense of accomplishment when plants thrive under their care.
3. Swimming. Swimming is ideal for elderly individuals with limited mobility as it’s low-impact, gentle on joints and supports weightlessness, reducing strain. It enhances cardiovascular health, muscle strength and flexibility without putting excessive stress on the body.
4. Storytelling groups. Joining a storytelling group allows older adults to intellectually engage in stimulating conversations and share their experiences and memories.
sive. Don’t let low vision stop you from living your best life.
5. Creative arts and crafts. Creative pursuits such as painting, drawing and crafting can ignite the imagination and provide a creative outlet for self-expression. Older adults cancreatebeautifulartworkor handmade crafts to decorate theirlivingspaceorsharewith loved ones.
By incorporating these accessible activities into a daily routine, older adults can stay active, connected and fulfilled, enhancing their overall quality of life.
Photo courtesy of Newspaper Toolbox
Photo courtesy of Newspaper Toolbox
ADULT DAY SERVICES
Relationship-basedcarein a safeandengaging placeforthosewithdementiaorchronic illness –orforseniorssimplywantingcare,supportor socializationduringtheday.
