12040 NE 128th Street Kirkland, WA 98034
horizons
fall 2012
Bring the “Health” Back Into Your Health Care We live in an era of medical breakthroughs. Daily, we read stories of miraculous technologic feats that allow more accurate diagnoses, less-invasive treatments, faster recovery and superior long-term results. In this environment, it is easy to lose sight of the simple truth that we are still the best advocates for our own health.
Our EvergreenHealth physician experts, with advanced treatments and minimally invasive surgical technologies, can help you get back to life pain-free. See “Breakthrough Treatment for Pain” inside.
Evergreen Healthcare is now This year we celebrate our 40th anniversary with a refreshed brand and a new name. Guided by our history of excellence and growth – and our vision for the future – we continue our commitment to meeting our community’s needs through quality, service and distinguished care. From our six neighborhood primary care centers to cancer care, cardiology care, breast health care, women’s care and orthopedic care, as well as home care and hospice, and much, much more – you’ll find more than 900 doctors and other providers dedicated to helping every single patient live a happier, healthier life.
Horizons promotes a healthy outlook beyond age 55. EvergreenHealth Horizons is a service of EvergreenHealth Senior Care. Editor: Rosemary Langford To receive this free, quarterly Horizons publication, leave a message at 425.899.1858 or email us at horizons@ evergreenhealthcare.org.
Indeed, one of the benefits of recent medical advances is that they allow for nuanced and personalized care. This has changed the patient-provider relationship from “informed consent” – in which a provider made a decision and the patient was informed of the risks and benefits – to “shared decision-making” that involves both patient and provider. This change reflects the reality that patients do better when they play an active role in their care. Here are some cues for becoming better advocates and healthier people. It’s never too late to improve our performance as patients.
Assess your relationship with your provider. Do you have good rapport with your physician? The greater your mutual respect, trust and shared values, the better the amount and quality of information that is shared in both directions. Good communication with someone you trust will result in more accurate diagnosis from the provider and improved followthrough on your part. Get prompt care for serious conditions. Health care often costs more when it’s delayed, so if you’re struggling with a serious condition such as asthma, don’t wait to be treated. An office visit and an inhaler cost much less than a visit to the emergency department. If you need help determining whether to see a doctor, call the EvergreenHealth Healthline at 425.899.3000 for advice and a referral. continued on p. 7
www.evergreenhealth.com
Classes and Events oct.–dec. 2012
These classes for seniors are made possible through your levy support of EvergreenHealth (King County Public Hospital District No. 2). Classes are free unless a price is listed. Pre-registration is required for all classes.
Brittany Park
17143 133rd Ave. NE, Woodinville
Diabetes and the Eye This class reviews how diabetes affects the eye, how it is noticed, what to look for, and why maintaining proper diabetic control is important to eye health. Oct. 2, 2–3 p.m. Call 425.402.7100 to register.
Managing High Blood Pressure Get the lowdown on high blood pressure, including risk factors and current treatment options. Learn how you can manage high blood pressure. Oct. 16, 2–3 p.m. Call 425.402.7100 to register.
Healthy “Alternatives” Discover the benefits of yoga, t’ai chi and visualization. Explore various alternative therapies that benefit people of all physical conditions and promote flexibility, balance and relaxation. Nov. 6, 2–3 p.m. Call 425.402.7100 to register.
Meditation for Holiday Stress Meditation can be a powerful tool for relaxing and reducing stress. Learn and practice basic meditation, visualization and relaxation techniques to help calm you during the holidays. Nov. 20, 2–3 p.m. Call 425.402.7100 to register.
Easing Back Pain Whether your back pain is occasional or chronic, you could benefit from this talk on common back problems and basic back care, which includes exercise, body mechanics, medications and other treatments that may help ease that aching back. Dec. 4, 2–3 p.m. Call 425.402.7100 to register.
Emerald Heights
10901 176th Circle NE, Redmond
From Snoring to Snoozing Does your partner keep the house awake at night? A specialist will uncover the reasons for snoring and treatment options to keep the household sleeping through the night. Oct. 25, 1:30–2:30 p.m. Call 425.556.8138 to register.
Caring for Your Kidneys Learn how kidneys function, how they are affected by medication, hypertension and illness, and what you can do to protect yourself. Nov. 15, 1:30–2:30 p.m. Call 425.556.8138 to register.
Fighting Fatigue Fatigue is not normal. Fatigue can be caused by food allergies, thyroid dysfunction, adrenal gland burnout and much more. Stop feeling fatigued and start feeling fabulous today! Dec. 20, 1:30–2:30 p.m. Call 425.556.8138 to register.
Registration is required or classes may be cancelled.
EvergreenHealth Medical Center
12040 NE 128th St., Kirkland
AARP Driver Safety Program Interested in improving your driving skills and possibly receiving an insurance discount? This program, designed and conducted by AARP, provides eight hours of classroom instruction that covers the effects of aging and medication on driving, basic driving rules, license renewal and more. Oct. 13, Nov. 10, Dec. 8 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Fee: $12 AARP members; $14 nonmembers Call 425.899.3000 to register.
Preventative Eye Care Learn steps to help prevent glaucoma, macular degeneration and other eye diseases. Oct. 18, 12:30–1:30 p.m. Call 425.899.3000 to register.
Cholesterol and Diabetes Screening Screening will include fasting full-panel cholesterol test and glucose. Results will be given before you go home! Limit 25 participants; must register for time slot. Free. Nov. 15, 8:30–10:30 a.m. Call 425.899.3000 to register.
Breakthrough Treatment for Pain
There’s nothing worse than pain that keeps you from your work, your favorite activities or just getting out of bed in the morning without hurting. At our free seminars, our physician experts will explain how our advanced treatments and minimally invasive surgical technologies can help you get back to life pain-free. Call 425.899.3000 to register.
Knee or Hip Pain Oct. 25, Nov. 21, Dec. 19 6:30–8:30 p.m.
Back Pain Nov. 29 6:30–8:30 p.m.
Shoulder Pain Dec. 13 6:30–8 p.m.
Fairwinds – Redmond
9988 Avondale Rd. NE, Redmond How to Choose a Healthy Meal? Learn how to make educated, healthy choices from a prepared menu. Discover ways to balance proteins, carbohydrates and fats. We’ll compare menu items, looking at nutritional concepts such as antioxidants, fiber and more. Oct. 12, 1:30–2:30 p.m. Call 425.558.4700 to register.
You & Your Medications Take an active role in your health care by learning more about the medications you take every day. A pharmacist will discuss common drug interactions and side effects, how aging affects medication and how to effectively communicate with your pharmacist. Nov. 9, 1:30–2:30 p.m. Call 425.558.4700 to register.
Understanding Leg Pain We’ll discuss several types of leg pain caused by impaired blood flow and what steps you can take to alleviate your discomfort. Dec. 14, 1:30–2:30 p.m. Call 425.558.4700 to register.
Registration is required or classes may be cancelled.
Classes and Events oct.–dec. 2012
These classes for seniors are made possible through your levy support of EvergreenHealth (King County Public Hospital District No. 2). Classes are free unless a price is listed. Pre-registration is required for all classes.
Brittany Park
17143 133rd Ave. NE, Woodinville
Diabetes and the Eye This class reviews how diabetes affects the eye, how it is noticed, what to look for, and why maintaining proper diabetic control is important to eye health. Oct. 2, 2–3 p.m. Call 425.402.7100 to register.
Managing High Blood Pressure Get the lowdown on high blood pressure, including risk factors and current treatment options. Learn how you can manage high blood pressure. Oct. 16, 2–3 p.m. Call 425.402.7100 to register.
Healthy “Alternatives” Discover the benefits of yoga, t’ai chi and visualization. Explore various alternative therapies that benefit people of all physical conditions and promote flexibility, balance and relaxation. Nov. 6, 2–3 p.m. Call 425.402.7100 to register.
Meditation for Holiday Stress Meditation can be a powerful tool for relaxing and reducing stress. Learn and practice basic meditation, visualization and relaxation techniques to help calm you during the holidays. Nov. 20, 2–3 p.m. Call 425.402.7100 to register.
Easing Back Pain Whether your back pain is occasional or chronic, you could benefit from this talk on common back problems and basic back care, which includes exercise, body mechanics, medications and other treatments that may help ease that aching back. Dec. 4, 2–3 p.m. Call 425.402.7100 to register.
Emerald Heights
10901 176th Circle NE, Redmond
From Snoring to Snoozing Does your partner keep the house awake at night? A specialist will uncover the reasons for snoring and treatment options to keep the household sleeping through the night. Oct. 25, 1:30–2:30 p.m. Call 425.556.8138 to register.
Caring for Your Kidneys Learn how kidneys function, how they are affected by medication, hypertension and illness, and what you can do to protect yourself. Nov. 15, 1:30–2:30 p.m. Call 425.556.8138 to register.
Fighting Fatigue Fatigue is not normal. Fatigue can be caused by food allergies, thyroid dysfunction, adrenal gland burnout and much more. Stop feeling fatigued and start feeling fabulous today! Dec. 20, 1:30–2:30 p.m. Call 425.556.8138 to register.
Registration is required or classes may be cancelled.
EvergreenHealth Medical Center
12040 NE 128th St., Kirkland
AARP Driver Safety Program Interested in improving your driving skills and possibly receiving an insurance discount? This program, designed and conducted by AARP, provides eight hours of classroom instruction that covers the effects of aging and medication on driving, basic driving rules, license renewal and more. Oct. 13, Nov. 10, Dec. 8 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Fee: $12 AARP members; $14 nonmembers Call 425.899.3000 to register.
Preventative Eye Care Learn steps to help prevent glaucoma, macular degeneration and other eye diseases. Oct. 18, 12:30–1:30 p.m. Call 425.899.3000 to register.
Cholesterol and Diabetes Screening Screening will include fasting full-panel cholesterol test and glucose. Results will be given before you go home! Limit 25 participants; must register for time slot. Free. Nov. 15, 8:30–10:30 a.m. Call 425.899.3000 to register.
Breakthrough Treatment for Pain
There’s nothing worse than pain that keeps you from your work, your favorite activities or just getting out of bed in the morning without hurting. At our free seminars, our physician experts will explain how our advanced treatments and minimally invasive surgical technologies can help you get back to life pain-free. Call 425.899.3000 to register.
Knee or Hip Pain Oct. 25, Nov. 21, Dec. 19 6:30–8:30 p.m.
Back Pain Nov. 29 6:30–8:30 p.m.
Shoulder Pain Dec. 13 6:30–8 p.m.
Fairwinds – Redmond
9988 Avondale Rd. NE, Redmond How to Choose a Healthy Meal? Learn how to make educated, healthy choices from a prepared menu. Discover ways to balance proteins, carbohydrates and fats. We’ll compare menu items, looking at nutritional concepts such as antioxidants, fiber and more. Oct. 12, 1:30–2:30 p.m. Call 425.558.4700 to register.
You & Your Medications Take an active role in your health care by learning more about the medications you take every day. A pharmacist will discuss common drug interactions and side effects, how aging affects medication and how to effectively communicate with your pharmacist. Nov. 9, 1:30–2:30 p.m. Call 425.558.4700 to register.
Understanding Leg Pain We’ll discuss several types of leg pain caused by impaired blood flow and what steps you can take to alleviate your discomfort. Dec. 14, 1:30–2:30 p.m. Call 425.558.4700 to register.
Registration is required or classes may be cancelled.
Kenmore Senior Center
6910 NE 170th St., Kenmore
Mindercise for Memory Enhancement Learn the 3 A’s of memory enhancement: attitude, attention and activity. See how the 3 A’s can either help or hinder memory and concentration skills. Emphasis is on fun and mental stimulation. Oct. 15, 11 a.m.–12 p.m. Call 425.489.0707 to register.
The Arthritis & Diet Connection Discover the connection between diet, nutrients and food allergies and the causes and relief of arthritis pain. The role of the immune system also will be reviewed. Nov. 19, 11 a.m.–12 p.m. Call 425.489.0707 to register.
When to Worry Signs of dementia build over time and can gradually interfere with daily living. Learn the various warning signs that may point to the most common form of dementia, Alzheimer’s disease. Dec. 17, 11 a.m.–12 p.m. Call 425.489.0707 to register.
Madison House
12215 NE 128th St., Kirkland Acupuncture for Pain Relief
Acupuncture has been shown to be beneficial for treating chronic pain symptoms in some individuals. Find out which conditions respond well to acupuncture and acupressure. Oct. 11, 2–3 p.m. Call 425.821.8210 to register.
Less Is More The need to downsize confronts older adults and the adult children who care for them. We can respect the dignity of those in our care and together view this lifestyle change as an opportunity to sort and value belongings, store and organize what to keep, and distribute what is no longer needed or wanted. Nov. 8, 2–3 p.m. Call 425.821.8210 to register.
Make Your Life Easier This class will cover techniques and equipment options to assist you with everyday tasks such as putting on shoes, opening medicine bottles and cans, and moving about your home, along with many other tips to make your life easier. Dec. 13, 2–3 p.m. Call 425.821.8210 to register.
Mill Creek Senior Center
15720 Main Street, Annex (Huntron) Building next to Mill Creek City Hall, Mill Creek Mediterranean Lifestyle Class Improve your understanding of how to take care of your health by adopting a healthier lifestyle. A dietitian will provide information about how to practically apply the Mediterranean diet principles to your life. Oct. 18, 1–2 p.m. Call 425.948.7170 to register.
Northshore Senior Center
10201 E Riverside Dr., Bothell Acid Reflux/GERD
Do you have frequent uncomfortable feelings of burning, warmth or pain just behind the breastbone? These are the main symptoms of GERD. We’ll share treatments that will make your life more comfortable. Oct. 9, 12:45–2 p.m. Call 425.487.2441 to register.
Advance Directives
COPD is one of the most common lung diseases and causes of death in older people. Learn the signs, symptoms and various treatment options. Nov. 15, 1–2 p.m. Call 425.948.7170 to register.
Learn how to make your own decisions regarding your care should you develop a terminal illness or a life-threatening injury. Advance care directives can also designate someone you trust to make decisions about medical care, if you are unable. Oct. 23, 12:45–2 p.m. Call 425.487.2441 to register.
The Arthritis & Diet Connection
Cholesterol and Diabetes Screening
Feeling Breathless?
Discover the connection between diet, nutrients and food allergies and the causes and relief of arthritis pain. The role of the immune system also will be reviewed. Dec. 13, 1–2 p.m. Call 425.948.7170 to register.
Registration is required or classes may be cancelled.
Screening will include fasting full-panel cholesterol test and glucose. Results will be given before you go home! Limit 25 participants; must register for time slot. Free. Nov. 13, 8:30–10:30 a.m. Call 425.487.2441 to register.
Resisting Germs from Irresistible Kids Learn about prevention and sanitizing techniques, as well as products that can help boost your immune system so you can share time with your grandchildren without sharing bacteria and viruses. Nov. 27, 12:45–2 p.m. Call 425.487.2441 to register.
Holiday Travel: Keep Moving The dangers of long flights are making some think twice about air travel. Simple seated exercises will be discussed and demonstrated, along with other techniques to keep the blood moving and muscles relaxed while en route. Dec. 11, 12:45–2 p.m. Call 425.487.2441 to register.
Peter Kirk Community Center
352 Kirkland Ave., Kirkland Seasonal Affective Disorder: Are You Feeling SAD? Discover why the lack of sunlight can cause some to experience fatigue, weight gain and altered sleeping habits, and how you can improve your mood. Oct. 5, 12:45–2 p.m. Call 425.587.3360 to register.
Headache Management Oh, my aching head! Take part in this discussion on the causes, diagnosis, management and treatment of headache problems. Oct. 12, 12:45–2 p.m. Call 425.587.3360 to register.
Varicose Veins Varicose veins are uncomfortable and ache, but they also increase the risk for circulatory disorders. Learn about symptoms and treatment options. Oct. 19, 12:45–2 p.m. Call 425.587.3360 to register.
Below the Belt An informative look at the contributing causes, symptoms and treatments of irritable bowel syndrome and diverticulitis, and preventative measures for colon cancer. Oct. 26, 12:45–2 p.m. Call 425.587.3360 to register.
Cholesterol and Diabetes Screening Screening will include fasting full-panel cholesterol test and glucose. Results will be given before you go home! Limit 25 participants; must register for time slot. Free. Nov. 2, 8:30-10:30 a.m. Call 425.587.3360 to register.
Registration is required or classes may be cancelled.
Kenmore Senior Center
6910 NE 170th St., Kenmore
Mindercise for Memory Enhancement Learn the 3 A’s of memory enhancement: attitude, attention and activity. See how the 3 A’s can either help or hinder memory and concentration skills. Emphasis is on fun and mental stimulation. Oct. 15, 11 a.m.–12 p.m. Call 425.489.0707 to register.
The Arthritis & Diet Connection Discover the connection between diet, nutrients and food allergies and the causes and relief of arthritis pain. The role of the immune system also will be reviewed. Nov. 19, 11 a.m.–12 p.m. Call 425.489.0707 to register.
When to Worry Signs of dementia build over time and can gradually interfere with daily living. Learn the various warning signs that may point to the most common form of dementia, Alzheimer’s disease. Dec. 17, 11 a.m.–12 p.m. Call 425.489.0707 to register.
Madison House
12215 NE 128th St., Kirkland Acupuncture for Pain Relief
Acupuncture has been shown to be beneficial for treating chronic pain symptoms in some individuals. Find out which conditions respond well to acupuncture and acupressure. Oct. 11, 2–3 p.m. Call 425.821.8210 to register.
Less Is More The need to downsize confronts older adults and the adult children who care for them. We can respect the dignity of those in our care and together view this lifestyle change as an opportunity to sort and value belongings, store and organize what to keep, and distribute what is no longer needed or wanted. Nov. 8, 2–3 p.m. Call 425.821.8210 to register.
Make Your Life Easier This class will cover techniques and equipment options to assist you with everyday tasks such as putting on shoes, opening medicine bottles and cans, and moving about your home, along with many other tips to make your life easier. Dec. 13, 2–3 p.m. Call 425.821.8210 to register.
Mill Creek Senior Center
15720 Main Street, Annex (Huntron) Building next to Mill Creek City Hall, Mill Creek Mediterranean Lifestyle Class Improve your understanding of how to take care of your health by adopting a healthier lifestyle. A dietitian will provide information about how to practically apply the Mediterranean diet principles to your life. Oct. 18, 1–2 p.m. Call 425.948.7170 to register.
Northshore Senior Center
10201 E Riverside Dr., Bothell Acid Reflux/GERD
Do you have frequent uncomfortable feelings of burning, warmth or pain just behind the breastbone? These are the main symptoms of GERD. We’ll share treatments that will make your life more comfortable. Oct. 9, 12:45–2 p.m. Call 425.487.2441 to register.
Advance Directives
COPD is one of the most common lung diseases and causes of death in older people. Learn the signs, symptoms and various treatment options. Nov. 15, 1–2 p.m. Call 425.948.7170 to register.
Learn how to make your own decisions regarding your care should you develop a terminal illness or a life-threatening injury. Advance care directives can also designate someone you trust to make decisions about medical care, if you are unable. Oct. 23, 12:45–2 p.m. Call 425.487.2441 to register.
The Arthritis & Diet Connection
Cholesterol and Diabetes Screening
Feeling Breathless?
Discover the connection between diet, nutrients and food allergies and the causes and relief of arthritis pain. The role of the immune system also will be reviewed. Dec. 13, 1–2 p.m. Call 425.948.7170 to register.
Registration is required or classes may be cancelled.
Screening will include fasting full-panel cholesterol test and glucose. Results will be given before you go home! Limit 25 participants; must register for time slot. Free. Nov. 13, 8:30–10:30 a.m. Call 425.487.2441 to register.
Resisting Germs from Irresistible Kids Learn about prevention and sanitizing techniques, as well as products that can help boost your immune system so you can share time with your grandchildren without sharing bacteria and viruses. Nov. 27, 12:45–2 p.m. Call 425.487.2441 to register.
Holiday Travel: Keep Moving The dangers of long flights are making some think twice about air travel. Simple seated exercises will be discussed and demonstrated, along with other techniques to keep the blood moving and muscles relaxed while en route. Dec. 11, 12:45–2 p.m. Call 425.487.2441 to register.
Peter Kirk Community Center
352 Kirkland Ave., Kirkland Seasonal Affective Disorder: Are You Feeling SAD? Discover why the lack of sunlight can cause some to experience fatigue, weight gain and altered sleeping habits, and how you can improve your mood. Oct. 5, 12:45–2 p.m. Call 425.587.3360 to register.
Headache Management Oh, my aching head! Take part in this discussion on the causes, diagnosis, management and treatment of headache problems. Oct. 12, 12:45–2 p.m. Call 425.587.3360 to register.
Varicose Veins Varicose veins are uncomfortable and ache, but they also increase the risk for circulatory disorders. Learn about symptoms and treatment options. Oct. 19, 12:45–2 p.m. Call 425.587.3360 to register.
Below the Belt An informative look at the contributing causes, symptoms and treatments of irritable bowel syndrome and diverticulitis, and preventative measures for colon cancer. Oct. 26, 12:45–2 p.m. Call 425.587.3360 to register.
Cholesterol and Diabetes Screening Screening will include fasting full-panel cholesterol test and glucose. Results will be given before you go home! Limit 25 participants; must register for time slot. Free. Nov. 2, 8:30-10:30 a.m. Call 425.587.3360 to register.
Registration is required or classes may be cancelled.
Managing Holiday Depression Discover what is and isn’t depression, its causes, selfhelp techniques and options for maintaining a greater sense of well-being. Nov. 9, 12:45–2 p.m. Call 425.587.3360 to register.
Achieving Balance with Supplements Explore which supplements will benefit you, what results to expect, and how to safely and effectively incorporate them into your diet. Nov. 30, 12:45–2 p.m. Call 425.587.3360 to register.
Arthritis Management Essential information for arthritis sufferers on exercise, medication and medical treatments to help manage arthritis with less pain and restriction of movement. Dec. 7, 12:45–2 p.m. Call 425.587.3360 to register.
Diabetes: The Facts It is important for those with diabetes to monitor and manage it properly. Find out what can be done to help those with diabetes maintain healthy lives. Dec. 21, 12:45–2 p.m. Call 425.587.3360 to register.
Redmond Senior Center
8703 160th Ave. NE, Redmond
Irritable Bowel Syndrome IBS is a common disorder of the intestines that leads to discomfort and sometimes disabling pain. Learn causes, symptoms and what you can do to help address the problem. Oct. 10, 10–11:15 a.m. Call 425.556.2314 to register.
Restless Legs Syndrome We’ll discuss restless legs syndrome and what steps you can take to alleviate your discomfort. Oct. 24, 10–11:15 a.m. Call 425.556.2314 to register.
Cholesterol and Diabetes Screening
Eating to Live!
continued from page 1
Whether your goal is to manage your weight or increase energy, vitality and stamina, this class is for you! Create a healthenhancing diet plan by understanding your body’s nutritional requirements, and discover the latest in nutritional myths and fads from television and print. Nov. 28, 10–11:15 a.m. Call 425.556.2314 to register.
Set a goal for your office visit. Before you visit the doctor, write down the purpose of your visit and make a list of what you want to accomplish there. While you talk with your doctor, check your list to make sure all your questions and concerns are being answered.
Using Humor to Reduce Holiday Stress Humor can be a powerful tool for relaxation and reducing stress. Learn basic techniques to help calm you during the holidays. Dec. 12, 10–11:15 a.m. Call 425.556.2314 to register.
Screening will include fasting full-panel cholesterol test and glucose. Results will be given before you go home! Limit 25 participants; must register for time slot. Free. Nov. 14, 9–11 a.m. Call 425.556.2314 to register.
Registration is required or classes may be cancelled.
Know your meds. Keep a list of the medications you take, including over-the-counter drugs, as well as a list of those that have caused you problems in the past. To avoid prescription errors, choose a pharmacy that’s convenient for you and fill all your prescriptions there if possible. If you use a mailorder pharmacy as well, let your local pharmacy know all the drugs you take. Know what your doctor prescribed and ask the pharmacist about side effects or special instructions. If the drug looks different than it did the last time you filled the prescription, ask why.
can prevent or delay diabetes and heart trouble. It can also reduce arthritis pain, anxiety and depression. Exercise can help older people stay independent. If you’re already getting regular exercise, keep it up. If you’re not, don’t get bogged down by selfblame. Find something you enjoy doing, and do it! Ask for help. If you’re worried about paying for your care, or if you’re finding it hard to get to appointments or take notes while you’re there, ask for help. Your provider can direct you to a web of services in this area that offers support to people who need it. Most important, remember that health care is about health. And though aging introduces some inevitable limitations, within our own set of boundaries, each of us can extend our range of activities, maximize our health, and increase our pleasure in living.
Exercise regularly. Talk with your doctor about finding a program that works for you and then stick with it. Regular exercise
Breakthrough Treatment for Pain There’s nothing worse than pain that keeps you from your work, your favorite activities or just getting out of bed in the morning without hurting. At our free seminars, our physician experts will explain how our advanced treatments and minimally invasive surgical technologies can help you get back to life pain-free. Call 425.899.3000 to register.
Knee or Hip Pain Oct. 25, Nov. 21, Dec. 19 6:30–8:30 p.m.
Back Pain Nov. 29 6:30–8:30 p.m.
Shoulder Pain Dec. 13 6:30–8 p.m.
If you think that a good doctor-patient relationship is essential to your health, you’re not alone. Even Wikipedia, the free, collaborative online encyclopedia, recognizes the power of partnership! “The doctor-patient relationship is central to the practice of health care, and is essential for the delivery of highquality health care in the diagnosis and treatment of disease.”
Registration is required or classes may be cancelled.
Managing Holiday Depression Discover what is and isn’t depression, its causes, selfhelp techniques and options for maintaining a greater sense of well-being. Nov. 9, 12:45–2 p.m. Call 425.587.3360 to register.
Achieving Balance with Supplements Explore which supplements will benefit you, what results to expect, and how to safely and effectively incorporate them into your diet. Nov. 30, 12:45–2 p.m. Call 425.587.3360 to register.
Arthritis Management Essential information for arthritis sufferers on exercise, medication and medical treatments to help manage arthritis with less pain and restriction of movement. Dec. 7, 12:45–2 p.m. Call 425.587.3360 to register.
Diabetes: The Facts It is important for those with diabetes to monitor and manage it properly. Find out what can be done to help those with diabetes maintain healthy lives. Dec. 21, 12:45–2 p.m. Call 425.587.3360 to register.
Redmond Senior Center
8703 160th Ave. NE, Redmond
Irritable Bowel Syndrome IBS is a common disorder of the intestines that leads to discomfort and sometimes disabling pain. Learn causes, symptoms and what you can do to help address the problem. Oct. 10, 10–11:15 a.m. Call 425.556.2314 to register.
Restless Legs Syndrome We’ll discuss restless legs syndrome and what steps you can take to alleviate your discomfort. Oct. 24, 10–11:15 a.m. Call 425.556.2314 to register.
Cholesterol and Diabetes Screening
Eating to Live!
continued from page 1
Whether your goal is to manage your weight or increase energy, vitality and stamina, this class is for you! Create a healthenhancing diet plan by understanding your body’s nutritional requirements, and discover the latest in nutritional myths and fads from television and print. Nov. 28, 10–11:15 a.m. Call 425.556.2314 to register.
Set a goal for your office visit. Before you visit the doctor, write down the purpose of your visit and make a list of what you want to accomplish there. While you talk with your doctor, check your list to make sure all your questions and concerns are being answered.
Using Humor to Reduce Holiday Stress Humor can be a powerful tool for relaxation and reducing stress. Learn basic techniques to help calm you during the holidays. Dec. 12, 10–11:15 a.m. Call 425.556.2314 to register.
Screening will include fasting full-panel cholesterol test and glucose. Results will be given before you go home! Limit 25 participants; must register for time slot. Free. Nov. 14, 9–11 a.m. Call 425.556.2314 to register.
Registration is required or classes may be cancelled.
Know your meds. Keep a list of the medications you take, including over-the-counter drugs, as well as a list of those that have caused you problems in the past. To avoid prescription errors, choose a pharmacy that’s convenient for you and fill all your prescriptions there if possible. If you use a mailorder pharmacy as well, let your local pharmacy know all the drugs you take. Know what your doctor prescribed and ask the pharmacist about side effects or special instructions. If the drug looks different than it did the last time you filled the prescription, ask why.
can prevent or delay diabetes and heart trouble. It can also reduce arthritis pain, anxiety and depression. Exercise can help older people stay independent. If you’re already getting regular exercise, keep it up. If you’re not, don’t get bogged down by selfblame. Find something you enjoy doing, and do it! Ask for help. If you’re worried about paying for your care, or if you’re finding it hard to get to appointments or take notes while you’re there, ask for help. Your provider can direct you to a web of services in this area that offers support to people who need it. Most important, remember that health care is about health. And though aging introduces some inevitable limitations, within our own set of boundaries, each of us can extend our range of activities, maximize our health, and increase our pleasure in living.
Exercise regularly. Talk with your doctor about finding a program that works for you and then stick with it. Regular exercise
Breakthrough Treatment for Pain There’s nothing worse than pain that keeps you from your work, your favorite activities or just getting out of bed in the morning without hurting. At our free seminars, our physician experts will explain how our advanced treatments and minimally invasive surgical technologies can help you get back to life pain-free. Call 425.899.3000 to register.
Knee or Hip Pain Oct. 25, Nov. 21, Dec. 19 6:30–8:30 p.m.
Back Pain Nov. 29 6:30–8:30 p.m.
Shoulder Pain Dec. 13 6:30–8 p.m.
If you think that a good doctor-patient relationship is essential to your health, you’re not alone. Even Wikipedia, the free, collaborative online encyclopedia, recognizes the power of partnership! “The doctor-patient relationship is central to the practice of health care, and is essential for the delivery of highquality health care in the diagnosis and treatment of disease.”
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horizons
fall 2012
Bring the “Health” Back Into Your Health Care We live in an era of medical breakthroughs. Daily, we read stories of miraculous technologic feats that allow more accurate diagnoses, less-invasive treatments, faster recovery and superior long-term results. In this environment, it is easy to lose sight of the simple truth that we are still the best advocates for our own health.
Our EvergreenHealth physician experts, with advanced treatments and minimally invasive surgical technologies, can help you get back to life pain-free. See “Breakthrough Treatment for Pain” inside.
Evergreen Healthcare is now This year we celebrate our 40th anniversary with a refreshed brand and a new name. Guided by our history of excellence and growth – and our vision for the future – we continue our commitment to meeting our community’s needs through quality, service and distinguished care. From our six neighborhood primary care centers to cancer care, cardiology care, breast health care, women’s care and orthopedic care, as well as home care and hospice, and much, much more – you’ll find more than 900 doctors and other providers dedicated to helping every single patient live a happier, healthier life.
Horizons promotes a healthy outlook beyond age 55. EvergreenHealth Horizons is a service of EvergreenHealth Senior Care. Editor: Rosemary Langford To receive this free, quarterly Horizons publication, leave a message at 425.899.1858 or email us at horizons@ evergreenhealthcare.org.
Indeed, one of the benefits of recent medical advances is that they allow for nuanced and personalized care. This has changed the patient-provider relationship from “informed consent” – in which a provider made a decision and the patient was informed of the risks and benefits – to “shared decision-making” that involves both patient and provider. This change reflects the reality that patients do better when they play an active role in their care. Here are some cues for becoming better advocates and healthier people. It’s never too late to improve our performance as patients.
Assess your relationship with your provider. Do you have good rapport with your physician? The greater your mutual respect, trust and shared values, the better the amount and quality of information that is shared in both directions. Good communication with someone you trust will result in more accurate diagnosis from the provider and improved followthrough on your part. Get prompt care for serious conditions. Health care often costs more when it’s delayed, so if you’re struggling with a serious condition such as asthma, don’t wait to be treated. An office visit and an inhaler cost much less than a visit to the emergency department. If you need help determining whether to see a doctor, call the EvergreenHealth Healthline at 425.899.3000 for advice and a referral. continued on p. 7
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