horizons
SUMMER 2012
EvergreenHealth Consistently Performs “Firsts” to Benefit Patients
da Vinci Surgical System
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.
EvergreenHealth offers an extensive range of surgical services, from breakthrough robot-assisted and minimally invasive surgical (MIS) procedures to the placement of children’s ear tubes and tonsillectomies. Even as EvergreenHealth provides a comprehensive range of surgical services, it also has distinguished itself as a leader in offering breakthrough surgical care
from a skilled physician surgical team and through advanced technology. Nearly 10 years ago, EvergreenHealth was the first hospital in the state to use “computer navigation” for total knee replacement. Today, EvergreenHealth is a nationally and internationally acknowledged leader in this procedure. This year, continued on back page
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, Cancer Care, Cardiology Care, Breast Health Care, Women’s Care, Orthopedic Care, as well as Home Care & 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. evergreenhealth.com
Classes and Events july - september 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
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. July 17, 2–3 p.m. Call 425.402.7100 to register.
The Arthritis and 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. Aug. 7, 2–3 p.m. Call 425.402.7100 to register.
Anger and Coping with Disease and Life Change Discover how to effectively manage your anger when dealing with chronic disease and life change. Aug. 21, 2–3 p.m. Call 425.402.7100 to register.
Meditation and Wellness Meditation has been shown to have many health benefits, which include managing stress, regulating emotion, and increasing physical resilience and selfawareness. Learn and practice meditation techniques. Sept. 4, 2–3 p.m. Call 425.402.7100 to register.
Exercise and Osteoporosis Exercise plays an important role in the prevention and slowing of osteoporosis. If done improperly, exercise can put brittle and porous bones at further risk for injury. Learn what precautions to take and which exercises can help without harm. Sept. 18, 2–3 p.m. Call 425.402.7100 to register.
Emerald Heights
10901 176th Circle NE, Redmond Hemorrhoids
Nearly half of people over age 50 have had hemorrhoids at some time in their lives. Treatment starts at home; join us to learn what steps you can take! July 26, 1:30–2:30 p.m. Call 425.556.8138 to register.
Mediterranean Lifestyle Class Improve your understanding of how to take care of your health with a healthy lifestyle. A dietitian will provide information about how to practically apply the Mediterranean diet principles to your life. Aug. 23, 1:30–2:30 p.m. Call 425.556.8138 to register.
Communicating with Your Health Care Provider Make sure you are prepared for your next physician's visit by learning important questions to ask, what services you should request
Registration is required or classes may be cancelled.
and how to ensure that you are informed of all medical options available to you. Sept. 27, 1:30–2:30 p.m. Call 425.556.8138 to register.
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 covering the effects of aging and medication on driving, basic driving rules, license renewal and more. July 14, Aug. 11, Sept. 8 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Fee: $12 AARP members, $14 nonmembers Call 425.899.3000 to register.
Nutrition and Eye Care Research is showing a link between good nutrition and maintaining healthy eyes. Learn what nutrients may help prevent, or at least slow, the progress of agerelated vision loss caused by conditions such as cataracts and macular degeneration. July 19, 12:30–1:30 p.m. Call 425.899.3000 to register.
The Cutting Edge in Minimally Invasive Spine Surgery In the field of spinal surgery, there is currently a shift from traditional, open (“big incision”) surgery to modern, minimally invasive (“small incision”) approaches. Learn the most up-to-date, cuttingedge, minimally invasive spine surgery (MIS) techniques and technologies from a regional leader in the field of MIS. July 26, 6:30- 8:30 p.m. Call 425.899.3000 to register.
Medications for a Healthier Heart A discussion of medications used to manage heart failure and how to help your meds work best for you. Aug. 2, 10–11 a.m. Call 425.899.3000 to register.
Feeling Breathless? COPD is one of the most common lung diseases and causes of death in older people. Learn the signs, symptoms and various treatment options. Aug. 16, 12:30–1:30 p.m. Call 425.899.3000 to register.
more difficult to treat. Learn about the minimally invasive surgical (MIS) techniques and breakthrough therapies available for shoulder problems. Aug. 23, 6:30–8 p.m. Call 425.899.3000 to register.
Breast-Healthy Habits Learn how to do a proper breast self-exam and about the myths and realities surrounding breast cancer and mammography. Hear about EvergreenHealth’s newest, 3-D technology for mammograms. Sept. 20, 12:30–1:30 p.m. Call 425.899.3000 to register.
Considering Knee or Hip Replacement? Learn more about minimally invasive, computer-assisted knee and hip replacement surgery. It means a smaller incision, less pain and quicker recovery. Join our surgeons for a free seminar on EvergreenHealth’s comprehensive joint program. Aug. 15, Sept. 27 6:30–8:30 p.m. Call 425.899.3000 to register.
Minimally Invasive Surgical Techniques for the Shoulder The shoulder is one of the most vulnerable joints in the body and one of the
Registration is required or classes may be cancelled.
Fairwinds – Redmond
Kenmore Senior Center
9988 Avondale Rd. NE, Redmond
6910 NE 170th St., Kenmore
A Closer Look at Alzheimer's
Fad Diets
Take an in-depth look at Alzheimer's, including the early warning signs, diagnosis, prognosis and current research. July 13, 1:30–2:30 p.m. Call 425.558.4700 to register.
Arthritis Essentials
Atkins, Zone, Carbohydrate Addict or Sugar Busters? How do you know which may be right for you? Learn about the nutritional implications of popular diets and resolve your carbohydrate confusion. July 16, 11 a.m.–12 p.m. Call 425.489.0707 to register.
Don't miss this essential information for arthritis sufferers on exercise, medication and medical treatments that may help you to manage your arthritis with less pain and restriction of movement. Aug. 10, 1:30–2:30 p.m. Call 425.558.4700 to register.
Anxiety-Free Surgery
Walk This Way
Oh, my aching head! Take part in this discussion on the causes, diagnosis, management and treatment of headache problems. Sept. 17, 11 a.m.–12 p.m. Call 425.489.0707 to register.
Anyone can benefit from the easy and enjoyable activity of walking. Learn ways you can maximize these benefits, monitor your progress and prevent injury. Sept. 14, 1:30–2:30 p.m. Call 425.558.4700 to register.
Learn simple techniques of self-guided imagery, deep breathing and other forms of relaxation that may reduce some of that presurgical anxiety. Caregivers welcome! Aug. 20, 11 a.m.–12 p.m. Call 425.489.0707 to register.
Headache Management
Madison House
12215 NE 128th St., Kirkland
Diabetic Foot Care
Foot care is essential for anyone diagnosed with diabetes, to prevent infection and to relieve the pain and effects of foot ulcers. If you are a person with diabetes, don't miss this review of proper prevention, care and treatment for your diabetic feet. July 12, 2–3 p.m. Call 425.821.8210 to register.
Fraud Fighters
Whether through the mailbox, the telephone or the Internet, criminals are finding creative ways into people’s homes. Half of those victims are age 50 and older. Being able to recognize consumer scams can reduce the likelihood of being victimized by more than 50 percent. Learn how to protect yourself! Aug. 9, 2–3 p.m. Call 425.821.8210 to register.
Mood Food: Why Women Eat Chocolate
Discover why women crave chocolate and why some chocolates are better for you than others; examine the relationship that carbohydrates and sugar have with chocolate. Sept. 20, 2–3 p.m. Call 425.821.8210 to register.
Registration is required or classes may be cancelled.
Mill Creek Senior Center
15720 Main Street, Annex (Huntron) Building next to Mill Creek City Hall, Mill Creek Medicare: Are You Covered? Learn more about supplemental insurance options and the various programs that can help income-eligible persons reduce Medicare-related costs. Get the facts about your Medicare choices, so you can save money on health care coverage costs. July 18, 1–2 p.m. Call 425.948.7170 to register.
Sugar and Spice: Eating with Diabetes Learn to create meal plans to maintain proper blood levels, sugar and glocuse,the best foods and times to eat, and what should be avoided. Aug. 22, 1–2 p.m. Call 425.948.7170 to register.
Plantar Fasciitis The most common cause of heel pain is plantar fasciitis. Patients usually experience heel pain when taking the first several steps in the morning, with the symptoms lessening as walking continues. Join us to learn what you can
do to relieve discomfort. Sept. 19, 1–2 p.m. Call 425.948.7170 to register.
Northshore Senior Center
10201 E Riverside Dr., Bothell
fibromyalgia and discover ways to lessen your pain and move on with your life Aug. 21, 12:45–2 p.m. Call 425.487.2441 to register.
Pressure Sores
Learn to create meal plans to maintain proper blood levels, sugar and glucose, the best foods and times to eat, and what should be avoided. July 10, 12:45–2 p.m. Call 425.487.2441 to register.
As people age, the soft tissue becomes more fragile. Skin becomes thinner and less elastic, and injures more easily. Skin in this condition may easily develop a pressure sore. Learn preventive measures and how to treat a sore. Sept. 11, 12:45–2 p.m. Call 425.487.2441 to register.
Healthy "Alternatives"
You and Your Meds
Discover the benefits of yoga, tai chi and visualization. Explore various alternative therapies that benefit people of all physical conditions and promote flexibility, balance and relaxation. July 24, 12:45–2 p.m. Call 425.487.2441 to register.
A pharmacist discusses drug interactions, how aging affects meds, and more. Sept. 25, 12:45–2 p.m. Call 425.487.2441 to register.
Eating with Diabetes
Improve Your Hearing Explore techniques for improving communication skills and maximizing your hearing. Discover lipreading basics and how to deal with noisy places. Aug. 14, 12:45–2 p.m. Call 425.487.2441 to register.
Living with Fibromyalgia Explore ideas on how you can live more effectively with
Registration is required or classes may be cancelled.
Join us for
Bothell Senior Citizens Day
Tuesday, Sept. 11, 2012 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Bothell’s Main Street Live entertainment, giveaways, discounts for seniors at local businesses, shopping, bingo, historical walking tours and surprises. Parking and shuttle service available at Northshore Senior Center. Call 425.485.4353 or visit www.bothellchamber.com for more information.
Peter Kirk Community Center
352 Kirkland Ave., Kirkland 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. July 6, 12:45–2 p.m. Call 425.587.3360 to register.
What You Need to Know About Shingles Shingles is most common in older adults and people who have weak immune systems because of stress, injury, certain medicines or other reasons. Learn causes, symptoms and various treatments. July 13, 12:45–2 p.m. Call 425.587.3360 to register.
Power of Humor A humor specialist will lead a fun-filled discussion on the healing power of humor and how to incorporate laughter into your life. July 20, 12:45–2 p.m. Call 425.587.3360 to register.
Arthritis Management
Easing Back Pain
Essential information for arthritis sufferers on exercise, medication and medical treatments to help manage arthritis with less pain and restriction of movement. July 27, 12:45–2 p.m. Call 425.587.3360 to register.
Whether your back pain is occasional or chronic, you could benefit from this talk on common back problems and basic back care that includes exercise, body mechanics, medications and other treatments that may help ease that aching back. Sept. 7, 12:45–2 p.m. Call 425.587.3360 to register.
Eating Right with Food Allergies Are food allergies making meal preparation difficult? Discover ways to create healthy meals and snacks while avoiding common foodallergy culprits such as dairy, shellfish and wheat products. This overview of healthy eating will also be beneficial to non-allergy sufferers. Aug. 3, 12:45–2 p.m. Call 425.587.3360 to register.
Be Good to Your Feet We will discuss aspects of injury prevention for the foot and ankle as well as overall good foot care. Aug. 10, 12:45–2 p.m. Call 425.587.3360 to register.
Macular Degeneration It's the leading cause of blindness for people over the age of 50. Review the early signs of macular degeneration and how it is treated. Aug. 17, 12:45–2 p.m. Call 425.587.3360 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. Sept. 14, 12:45–2 p.m. Call 425.587.3360 to register.
Natural Approach to Memory and Concentration Is it just a “senior moment,” or is there another explanation? We explore brain exercises, food allergies, underlying illnesses, and supplements to prevent or address memory problems. Sept. 21, 12:45–2 p.m. Call 425.587.3360 to register.
Advance Directives Learn how to make your own decisions regarding your care should you develop a terminal illness or a lifethreatening injury. Advance care directives can also
Registration is required or classes may be cancelled.
designate someone you trust to make decisions about medical care if you are unable. Sept. 28, 12:45–2 p.m. Call 425.587.3360 to register.
rEdmond sEnior cEntEr
8703 160th Ave NE, Redmond
Managing Depression Discover what is and isn't depression, its causes, selfhelp techniques and options for maintaining a greater sense of well-being. Aug. 22, 10–11:15 a.m. Call 425.556.2314 to register.
Make Your Life Easier
It's HOT out there! Learn the dangers that warm temperatures can create, especially for those with chronic illness, and how to keep hydrated. July 11, 10–11:15 a.m. Call 425.556.2314 to register.
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. Sept. 12, 10–11:15 a.m. Call 425.556.2314 to register.
Gardening Injuries
Acid Reflux/GERD
Hot, Hot, Hot
Pulling the weeds got your back in a cramp? Learn about proper posture, stretching techniques and various tools to aid your flowering garden. July 25, 10–11:15 a.m. Call 425.556.2314 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. Aug. 8, 10–11:15 a.m. Call 425.556.2314 to register.
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. Sept. 26, 10–11:15 a.m. Call 425.556.2314 to register.
Hospice and Palliative Care Seeks New Volunteers More than 61 million Americans volunteer to improve conditions for people in need, according to the Corporation for National & Community Service. Volunteer activity is an unselfish act, yet volunteers themselves enjoy significant benefits: those who volunteer have lower mortality rates, greater functional ability and lower rates of depression later in life than those who do not volunteer. EvergreenHealth Hospice and Palliative care is actively seeking new volunteers to join the 200 volunteers who now work at the Hospice Center and visiting patient homes throughout King and Snohomish counties. Many of our volunteers serve in their own neighborhoods. If you or someone you know would like to learn more about volunteering, please visit the volunteer pages of the EvergreenHealth website (www.evergreenhealth.com) or contact Criss East at 425.899.1049 or cmeast@ evergreenhealth.com.
Registration is required or classes may be cancelled.
PRSRT STD U.S. Postage PAID
Mailed from zip code 98034 Permit No. 300
12040 NE 128th Street Kirkland, WA 98034
EvergreenHealth is a destination learning center for orthopedic surgeons from around the country; hundreds of surgeons have visited us in Kirkland to learn minimally invasive surgical procedures and computer-navigated techniques. continued from page 1
our orthopedists achieved another first when EvergreenHealth spine surgeons performed the first computer-navigated spine surgery on the Eastside. In November, EvergreenHealth Medical Center became the first hospital on the Eastside to perform the unicondylar knee replacement procedure using MAKOplasty, or MAKO. MAKO can be an alternative step, before total knee replacement, to help patients alleviate knee pain and to have breakthrough results.
While the da Vinci robotassisted system is relatively new in the general surgery arena, EvergreenHealth’s Dr. Michael Towbin began adapting the da Vinci for use in surgeries such as gallbladder removal. In March, Dr. Towbin performed a minimally invasive gallbladder removal using just a single incision in the patient’s bellybutton. The procedure had just been approved by the FDA. TEMS, transanal endoscopic microsurgery, is a technique used for patients who have
a precancerous growth in the rectum or a very-earlystage rectal cancer. Evergreen Surgical Clinic’s Dr. Harry Kahn is a U.S. News & World Report 2011 “Top Doc” and the only surgeon performing TEMS in the entire state of Washington. For more information about EvergreenHealth’s breakthrough surgical services, please call our Nurse Navigators & Healthline at 425.899.3000 or visit www.evergreenhealth.com/ surgery.