50 Plus - January 2013 by Gannett Wisconsin Media

50 January 2013 | The magazine for active, mature lifestyles

plus!

Social Security recipients to get a ‘raise’ Boomerang kids: When Your Empty Nest Fills Up Again

Saavy Senior

ADRC: Services will grow in two-county region

Financial column: Give Your Grandchildren The Gift Of Life

Steve Ford

HEALTH columm: Be realistic about New Year’s Resolutions

Dr. Geralyn Carducci

Attention caregivers: Federal Benefit Checks are going All-Electronic

Study: Poor vision can isolate seniors

Older drivers and new cars: What You Should Know

8 A world of service FEATURE STORY:

Two Rivers pharmacist helps in medical partnership in Guatemala

50 plus!

On the Cover:

8-12

A world of service: Two Rivers pharmacist helps in medical partnership in Guatemala Two Rivers pharmacist Brian Jensen is involved with Guatemala Medical Resources Partnership (GMRP), an international medical outreach in rural Guatemala. He will make his third trip there in January.

Staff

Pat Pankratz, 50 Plus! Editor 920-686-2138 ppankratz@htrnews.com Tami Gasch, Advertising Manager 920-684-4433 tgasch@htrnews.com 50 Plus! is published monthly by the Herald Times Reporter. It also is distributed to select businesses in Manitowoc County.

Social Security recipients to get

a ‘raise’

As we ring in a new year, we can expect to see a number of changes. Social Security is no exception: in 2013, people who receive Social Security or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments will see their benefits increase. Beginning in 2013, a 1.7 percent cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) was applied to all Social Security and SSI payments. The average monthly Social Security benefit for a retired worker in 2013 is $1,261 (up from $1,240 in 2012) and the average monthly Social Security benefit for a disabled worker in 2013 is $1,132 (up from $1,113 in 2012). These changes are reflected in SSI payments dated Dec. 31, 2012 and Social Security payments dated in January 2013.

Boomerang kids

For people who receive SSI, the maximum federal payment amount has risen to $710 (up from $698).

When Your Empty Nest Fills Up Again

Other Social Security changes in 2013 are worth noting. For example, a worker now pays Social Security tax on up to $113,700 of annual income (up from $110,100 in 2012). A worker earns one credit after paying taxes on $1,160 in earnings in 2013 (up from $1,130). As always, a worker may earn a maximum of four credits each year and a person generally needs 40 credits (or 10 years of work) to be eligible for retirement benefits.

With a slowly growing economy and a still sluggish job market, there has been a continued increase in children moving back home after having lived independently on their own. These so called “boomerang kids” are popping up more frequently and when this situation is managed improperly, it can cause serious tension in a family.

To learn more about these and other changes for 2013, visit the Social Security website at www.socialsecurity.gov, and read a fact sheet about the changes at www.socialsecurity.gov/ pressoffice/factsheets/colafacts2013.htm.

However, many parents are viewing this “boomerang” as an opportunity. It can allow youth to begin saving

Distributed by Ken Hess of Manitowoc, Social Security public affairs specialist for Wisconsin.

Rent based on 30% of income, less medical Professionally Managed By: Bob Gregurich •

2 . January 2013 . 50 plus!

683-3042

WI-5001598398

Across the street from Village Park Seniors 62 and over Handicapped or disabled 18 years of age and over One block from a grocery store

WI-5001598386

I M M E D I AT E O P E N I N G S • L O W- R E N T H O U S I N G FOR SENIORS OR • HANDICAPPED, DISABLED

One and two bedroom with full kitchen and appliances • Patios and decks • Coin-operated laundry in all buildings • Off-street blacktop parking with heater plug ins •

Patrick Egan, chief retirement spokesperson for Thrivent Financial for Lutherans says, “This is not necessarily the troubling scenario it was once thought to be and this can actually be a very productive time for both children Boomerang kids continued on page 12

Carefree living for active adults!

PARK LANE APARTMENTS • 416 PARK LANE • MISHICOT, WI

• • • •

money for the future, continue a job search or to get out of debt, but only when expectations are clear and roles are known.

How to Locate Discounts If You’re 50 or Older Dear Savvy Senior: I just turned 50 and would like to know what resources you recommend for locating senior discounts.

Love To Save

Dear Love: One of the great perks of growing older in the U.S. is the many discounts that are available to boomers and seniors. If you don’t mind admitting your age, here are some tips and tools to help you find them.

Always Ask: The first thing to know is that not all businesses advertise them, but many give senior discounts just for asking, so don’t ever be shy to ask. You also need to know that while some discounts are available as soon as you turn 50, many others may not kick in until you turn 55, 60, 62 or 65.

car rentals, travel, recreation, local transportation, shopping, restaurants, hotels, state and national parks, medical services, pharmacies, museums and more. You can search for discounts by city and state or ZIP code, or by the category you’re interested in, for free. Or, for $13 you can become a premium member and get additional, select discounts. Another great website for locating 50-and-older discounts is Sciddy.com. Launched in 2011, this site also lets you search for free by city, state or ZIP code, as well as by business or category.

Join a Club: Another good avenue to senior

Search Online: Because senior discounts are

discounts is through membership organizations like AARP, which offers its 50 and older members a wide variety of discounts through affiliate businesses (see discounts.aarp.org). Annual AARP membership fees are $16, or less if you join for multiple years.

To get started go to SeniorDiscounts.com, a massive website that lists more than 250,000 discounts on a wide variety of products and services like airlines,

If, however, you’re not a fan of AARP, there are other alternative organizations you can join that also provide discounts such as The Seniors Coalition or the American Seniors Association. Or, for federal workers, there’s the National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association.

constantly changing and can vary greatly depending on where you live and the time of the year, the Internet is one of your best resources for locating them.

WI-5001583555

Jim Miller Types of Discounts Here’s a brief rundown of some of the different types of discounts you can expect to find. Supermarkets: Many locally owned grocery stores offer senior discount programs, as do some chains like Kroger, Publix and Fry’s which offer some discounts on certain days of the week but they vary by location. You’ll need to ask! Retailers: Many thrift stores and certain retailers like Kohl’s, Bealls, Dressbarn and Ross Stores offer a break to seniors on a certain day each week. Travel: Southwest Airlines provide by far the best senior fares in the U.S. to passengers 65 and older, while Amtrak offers a 15 percent discount and Savvy Senior continued on page 4

WI-5001587103

50 plus! . January 2013 . 3

ADRC: Services will grow in two-county region By JUDY RANK | for 50 plus!

ACA implementation

The Aging & Disability Resource Center (ADRC) expanded its services into Kewaunee County on Jan. 1, 2012, and has been providing information and assistance services to the physically disabled, developmentally disabled and elderly residents of that county for the past year.

The Affordable Care Act will see some implementations in 2013. A section of the Act requires the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to reduce payments to hospitals and penalize them for readmissions that occur within a 30-day period. Readmissions cost Medicare billions of dollars each year. The ADRC has chosen to work with Aurora and Holy Family Memorial by providing in-home follow-up support for individuals age 65 and older who are discharged from either hospital. Staff is available to meet with patients in the hospital prior to discharge and explain the support they are able to provide, and after discharge will keep in contact with the patient for a 30 day period.

On Jan. 1, 2013, the aging services of Kewaunee County that are funded by the Older Americans Act (OAA) will become a part of the ADRC of the Lakeshore. This endeavor will allow the staff of Manitowoc and Kewaunee County who are currently providing services to the elderly population age 60 and older to work together and reach out to serve more people in both counties in a time when the elderly population is growing but budgets are not keeping up with the growing population. No services will be decreased and all staff will remain employed. Anyone wishing to contact the ADRC for services can do so by calling 1-877416-7093. The OAA programs include the meals program, both congregate and home-delivered, transportation services, caregiving programs, prevention programs, and elder benefit specialist services.

LogistiCare Medicaid recipients who have been using LogistiCare for non-emergency medical transport the last year and a half have been notified that LogistiCare has informed the state that it will be severing its contract as the transportation provider effective Feb. 15, 2013. They will continue to provide rides until a new provider can be put into place even if it goes beyond the Feb. 15 date. Eligible individuals will continue to schedule and get rides from LogistiCare. When changes are made, riders will be mailed new information in a member update. The phone number to schedule those rides is 1-866-907-1493. Routine appointments should be scheduled at least two business days prior to the ride. Urgent calls can be made 24 hours per day, 7 days a week. Rides can be scheduled up to one month in advance of the appointment.

4 . January 2013 . 50 plus!

Hospital patients also need to be mindful of the fact that hospitals can place a person on observation while in the hospital. Observation is treated as an outpatient service and can deny someone coverage for post-hospital rehab care in a skilled rehab facility. As an outpatient in the hospital, medical coverage is through Medicare Part B, which also can result in higher out-ofpocket cost in the hospital. Hospital patients should inquire about their status everyday they are in the hospital. Patients can ask the doctor to reconsider the case and ask whether observation status is justified. If it is justified, upon discharge a patient needs to ask the doctor whether they qualify for similar care through Medicare in the home. Another part of the act requires that states have a health insurance exchange available that would serve as a portal for determining whether people are eligible for federal subsidies to buy commercial health insurance. People with incomes below 400 percent of the federal poverty threshold ($92,000 for a family of four) will be eligible for subsidies tied to their household income. Wisconsin will not develop its own exchange as it has chosen to allow the federal government to set up the exchange. This will be set up by Oct. 1, 2013. Individuals who receive Medicare Part A and Part B are already receiving federally funded government health insurance. Low-income and low-asset individuals can also have the state of Wisconsin

pay for their Part B premiums. It is not known at this time whether these financial guidelines for payment of Part B premiums will increase.

Dementia Pilot The ADRC has been awarded a pilot project to develop programming to work with seniors who may have a dementia. A dementia care specialist will be hired and will be able to work with families to learn more about the disease and create a volunteer network that can provide mental and physical stimulation for individuals in the program. This program is expected to start in early February.

Tax Help Available Seniors looking for assistance with preparing income tax returns and Homestead Tax Credit can contact the Manitowoc or Two Rivers Senior Center for an appointment. Accounting students from Lakeshore Technical College will also provide assistance to people with incomes less than $50,000 by assisting with preparation of returns free of charge at the Manitowoc County Job Center, 3733 Dewey St., Manitowoc. Silver Lake College will assist the LTC students through the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program (VITA), which is run under the oversight of the IRS. They will be open from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays from Jan. 26 through April 6. Please call (920) 693-1398 for a reservation with the LTC program. The staff of the ADRC will assist with Homestead Tax Credit for those who do not need to file Wisconsin Income Tax. This service will not start until after Feb. 1.

Meal Reminder A reminder to all individuals receiving home delivered meals that the meal sites generally follow the school closings during inclement weather. All closings will be aired on the local radio stations. It is important to keep non-perishable items on hand to accommodate any meal site closing. Judy Rank is executive director of the Aging and Disability Resource Center of the Lakeshore.

Savvy Senior continued from page 3

Greyhound offers 5 percent off to travelers over 62. And, most hotels in the U.S. offer senior discounts, usually ranging from 10 to 30. Car Services: If you’re renting a car, most car rental companies provide discounts to customers who belong to organizations like AARP. And some Jiffy Lube and Midas service centers offer discounts to seniors for auto repair and maintenance. Restaurants: Senior savings are common at restaurants and fast food establishments, ranging from free coffee, to drinks, to discounts off your total order. Chains known for their senior discounts include McDonald’s, Wendy’s, Burger King, Applebee’s, Arby’s, Chili’s and Friendly’s. Entertainment: Most movie theaters, plays, ballets, symphonies, museums, zoos and aquariums provide reduced admission to seniors over 60 or 65. And seniors over 62 are eligible to get the “America the Beautiful – Senior Pass” for $10, which provides a lifetime of free access into all national parks and federal recreational lands. 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.

Give Your

Grandchildren

The Gift Of Life

Would you like unbiased help to determine your Medicare Options? Let Medicare Solutions of WI help you cut through the confusion! If you are new to Medicare you probably have been receiving information from many different companies on your various Medicare Options; we can help you determine what is relevant for you

We specialize in:

-Medicare Supplement Plans -Medicare Advantage Plans -Medicare Prescription Drug Plans -Major Medical Insurance

financial column Steve Ford is a State Farm agent with an office in Manitowoc.

We are local independent representatives who can analyze your personal situation and help develop an individualized plan that would meet your needs

For your free consultation call:

920-783-6148 or 1-877-647-1077 When you are trying to choose just the right gift for your grandchildren, you can have a tough time sifting through the newest trends and fads. Last week it was this pop star, next week it may be a new cartoon character. On top of that, you don’t want to get something that won’t last 10 minutes out of the package. One gift that will last for many years is a life insurance policy. There are many reasons why it can be an excellent gift for your grandchild.

Affordability – The younger the child’s age, the lower the premiums. Protection – Illness or injury may affect a child’s ability to purchase life insurance coverage later in life. Coverage purchased now will continue to provide protection, even if a child’s health changes, provided premiums are

paid as required by the policy.

Financial Security – Life insurance

Medicare Solutions of WI, LLC

Ashley Horst- Rodney Eissens- Dennis Haasl 815 S Taylor Dr. Sheboygan, WI 53081 Phone: 920-783-6148 or 1-877-647-1077 Website: www.medicaresolutionsofwi.com

can be the foundation for a strong financial plan. The child may be able to borrow against the accumulated cash value (with interest charged) to pay for future expenses. While loans decrease death benefits and cash surrender values, the proceeds can be used for important expenses such as a college education or the purchase of a home.

Don’t renew STOP that CD!

Giving a gift of life insurance to your grandchild can be one of the most significant things you do during your lifetime. He or she may not understand at the time how important the gift is, but should grow to appreciate it in the future.

Earn up to

Take the guesswork out of your gift shopping. Life insurance is a gift that will last a lifetime.

3.50%

REEDSVILLE MANOR

with a GBU* tax-deferred annuity. 3% Minimum Guarantee.

Apartment for seniors (55 and over) and qualified disabled.

• Rent based on income • Utilities are included • Medical amounts deductible

Call 754-4101 today! 431 Madison Street • Reedsville WI 54230

Call today as rates may change at any time.

WI-5001586805

WI-5001598408

2 bedroom apartment available!

E&H Advisors, LLC 920-783-6501 & 1-877-647-1075 *GBU Financial Life is a fraternal beneﬁt society domiciled in PA.

50 plus! . January 2013 . 5

Be realistic about

New Year’s Resolutions health column Dr. Geralyn Carducci is a physicain who is board certified in general psychiatry. She is in private practice in Manitowoc. This time of year many are thinking about New Year’s resolutions. To do or not to do? If you often have had difficulty following through in the past I offer these tips to help you do something different so that you can get different results:

Change For Yourself. Your resolutions should

be seen as positive changes that will help you meet your goals. Don’t decide to change for anyone else. Think about what it is that you value in life and set your goals accordingly. Setting goals is an opportunity

for you to look forward in positive ways. There is no need to look back and punish yourself for past choices.

Be Flexible. Actually, I think being somewhat flexible is key to many things in life. In terms of your resolutions, if weather or illness prevents you from sticking to your plan, make a plan B for a situation you can’t avoid. Most importantly, don’t let yourself be thrown completely off track just because you missed a day. Remember, each day is a new day in which you can decide to recommit to your goals/resolutions. Setbacks are bound to happen. Be prepared for them and don’t let them derail you.

Rather than “I will exercise more,”, try “I will walk on Monday, Wednesday and Friday and I will go to the gym on Tuesday and Thursday and do 30 minutes of weights and stretching.” In this way you can feel a sense of accomplishment everyday and if you miss a day you can get right back on track. Remember, each

Build A Support System. Having a good support system will help you stick to your goals. Try finding a realistic role model who is actually living your goal. If they can do it, so can you.

achievable, come up with small goals you know you can meet each day to keep yourself on track and feeling positive. Meeting smaller goals will leave you with a more immediate feeling of success. You may then build on these small successes. If your resolution is too big you need to break it down into reasonable chunks to make a detailed plan of action that will guide you toward meeting your goal.

important

Motor Coach Tours Throughout the US & Canada Texas Passport: Dallas & Fort Worth 8 Days March 18-25 $1,499 per person DBL

Pella Tulip Time 3 Days May 3-5 $529 per person DBL

Nashville Music City 5 Days April 17-21 $849 per person DBL

Holland Tulip Festival 3 Days May 10-12 $579 per person DBL

Virginia Military Tattoo 8 Days April 24 -May 1 $1,489 per person DBL

Ohio Amish Back Roads & Buggies 5 Days May 13-17 $879 per person DBL

IIt just makes sense to prepare for the inevitable while emotions are at rest and heads are clear.

Pre-planning Specialist Mike Jarzin is available Mike Jarzin Pre-planning Specialist

Many other popular destinations available including: Nashville, Canadian Rockies, Yellowstone & Grand Tetons, Utah Parks, New York City & Much More!

6 . January 2013 . 50 plus!

1122 South 8th Street Manitowoc, WI 54220 920.682.1568

1124 Main Street Kellnersville, WI 54215 920.732.3535

WI-5001598361

Call Mike today to set up an appointment.

818 State Street Manitowoc, WI 54220 920.682.0118

Enlist the support of your family, friends or co-workers.

Together We’re Going Places!™ Go Lamers!™

to be rushed.

guidance you need to make educated decisions.

Be Realistic. Be sure your goals are realistic. Your plan of action should also be realistic. It should be convenient and something that works with your other life obligations. Try to make meeting your goals as easy as possible for yourself. Then set your goals at a reasonable level so that you can reach them one by one without feeling defeated or overwhelmed. This will improve your chances of success. You may want to anticipate obstacles and reward yourself for successes. Your rewards can be simple and inexpensive. Or, your reward can be just knowing and seeing you meet your goals one by one and continuing the progress you make.

Take Small Steps. To make your goals more

Some decisions are too

to answer your questions and provide the

day is a new day to recommit to your goals.

2013 TRAVEL PLANNER Available NOW! Convenient Departure Points near YOU! For reservations, Call: (800) 236-8687

Visit our website: www.lamerstour.com

WI-5001596379

If your goal involves quitting a serious addiction like smoking, alcohol or an eating disorder, seek professional help. Remember that you can be your best support. Normally your goal will become a reality if you believe in it and most of all if you believe in yourself. A well thought out resolution or goal can be a very useful tool to help you live a more meaningful life. Once you achieve your first goal, your goal becomes maintaining that accomplishment and you may wish to add another goal. I do recommend writing your goals or resolutions down and monitoring your progress in writing. For example, you could put your workouts on a calendar and cross them off after you do them. I also strongly suggest you look at your list daily. Lastly, it will take work. Anything worth having is worth working for.

Good Luck.

Attention caregivers

Federal Benefit Checks Are Going All-Electronic More than 65 million people provide care for a chronically ill, disabled or elderly family member or friend, according to the National Alliance for Caregiving. In addition to providing emotional and physical support, caregivers are often entrusted to help their loved ones carry out financial decisions. If you care for someone who receives Social Security or other federal benefit payments by paper check, you may need to help him or her to make an important financial decision. By March 1, 2013, the U.S. Department of the Treasury will pay all federal benefit payments electronically, and federal benefit recipients still receiving paper checks will be required by law to choose an electronic payment option, either direct deposit or the Treasury-

Choose from two wonderful senior living communities!

recommended MasterCard.

Direct

Express

Debit

As a caregiver, you are balancing multiple roles and responsibilities. Electronic payments eliminate the hassle of getting to the bank to cash or deposit your care recipient’s check. It usually takes less than 10 minutes to make the switch to electronic payments. Your relative or friend’s federal benefit payment automatically will be deposited into his or her account or onto the Direct Express card on payment day each month. Last year alone, more than 440,000 Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) checks were reported lost or stolen. Signing up for electronic payments is a simple but important step you can take to eliminate this risk and also protect

against identify theft. Protecting personal financial information is another important way to prevent identity theft and stolen benefit payments. Speak with your care recipient about keeping this information private and not sharing it with strangers — especially those who call over the phone. The Treasury Department will never call to request your Social Security number or bank account information. Your loved one should not share this information unless he or she initiates the call. More than 90 percent of beneficiaries already enjoy the benefits of direct deposit. attention caregivers continued on page 15

“I don’t have time.”

Take Time for Peace of Mind. All-Care Cremation Center

This upscale, yet affordable, independent senior apartment community features underground parking, a well-appointed community room & balconies/ patios. Conveniently located near shopping and restaurants.

928 South 14th Street Manitowoc www.allcarecremationcenter.com

This quaint, affordable apartment community features garages, community room & salon. Centrally located in Two Rivers.

Manitowoc Manito Man M iitowoc woc

684-4642

Call DEBBIE for a private tour: 901-RENT

WI-5001598397

Valders Valder Val derss

775-4433

Advanced Planningg Makes Sense

Call SUE for a private tour: 794-1555

www.Doneff.com NO entrance or endowment fees: Appliances, heat, water, sewer all included.

Two Rivers River Ri verss

793-1396

Justin Hudock

Your locally owned Funeral Homes and All-Care Cremation Center

Licensed Pre-Need Counselor

Meaningful

John Bodwin Licensed Pre-Need Counselor

Appropriate

Affordable

WI-5001598390

50 plus! . January 2013 . 7

A world of service

Two Rivers pharmacist helps in medical partnership in Guatemala By Tara Meissner | 50 Plus Correspondent TWO RIVERS — Brian Jensen believes the key to a successful life is to have balance among career, family and community. “I’d like to say I achieved that, but that’s an elusive thing,” the Two Rivers pharmacist said. Jensen has been a Rotary Club member for 16 years, which aligned with his sense of service. He has helped with many local events through the club, but he felt there was a disconnect from the fundraising he did and the end result. “I never really felt the impact that Rotarians have made. They do a lot, and I was somewhat removed from it,” he said. “Rotarians really have a world focus.” He looked for a way to get more involved in direct services and arrived at Guatemala Medical Resources Partnership (GMRP), an international

8 . January 2013 . 50 plus!

outreach that started as a mobile medical clinic in rural Guatemala. “We all have a role and take it very seriously,” Jensen said. “It is really a remarkable, special thing.” The GMRP delegation consists of providers, physicians, pharmacists, optometrists and this year a chiropractor. One-third of the team is translators, although Jensen is able to pick up a lot of the Spanish that is used by immersion. Jensen owned the Medicine Shoppe, with three locations in Two Rivers, for 20 years. He continues to work as a pharmacist although he no longer owns the business.

Third Time In January, Jensen will make his third trip to the community of Oliveros, Guatemala. The program is organized and funded by District 6270 Rotary Club in Milwaukee. All volunteers pay their own way, at

Pharmacist Brian Jensen of Two Rivers works in a makeshift pharmacy in Oliveros, Guatemala, during a previous visit there. The Rotary Club member in January will return for his third trip to the impoverished village through Guatemala Medical Resources Partnership. Submitted photos a cost of approximately $1,000. Any money that is raised goes directly to medications, supplies and equipment. When Jensen returned from his first trip in 2011 he called his wife, Barb, when he reached Mequon and gushed with stories and details of his experience. This conversation lasted right until he pulled into his driveway in rural Two Rivers. He continued to share stories until 6 a.m.

Help is welcome To make a financial donation, contact Barb Johnson, the 2013 trip leader at (414) 2289206 or you may email her at gmrpteam@gmail.com If you are interested in volunteering with GMRP, call Jensen at the Medicine Shoppe: (920) 794-1225. There are thousands of stories and pictures of the impact the group is having. One example is a local man who was given the moniker “Flipper Boy,” because he had lost his ability to walk as a result of polio. To compensate, he got around by dragging himself on his hands; on his hands, he wore swimming flippers. The Americans were able to provide a custom made wheelchair to navigate the terrain and give this young man the gift of mobility. The result for this man was life changing, Jensen said.

A young Guatemalan boy receives high-tech care in a rural village through the GMRP program.

Great Impact GMRP medical professionals have made an impact measured in hard numbers as well, with 578 medical procedures; 195 dental procedures; 270 vision screens, and distribution of 4,500 pharmaceuticals including prescriptions and kits with simple over the counter remedies. All is accomplished in the week that they are there. Since its inception in 2004, it has grown to include education and has formed partnerships with local resources to have a continuum of care throughout the year, rather than the brief amount of time the Rotarians are there. “It is one of those miracles,” Jensen said. An advance team travels ahead of the medical

team to the rural community of Oliveros, which is essentially a cinder block school with surrounding huts. The advance team prepares the clinic in the schoolhouse, allowing the medical professionals to begin seeing patients right away. “As a health care provider we are doing what we need to be doing, which is help people,” Jensen said. Today, all the equipment is stored in a locked semi trailer in Guatemala. A gentleman from Sheboygan donated a semi to drive to the South American country and told the group to keep the trailer for storage and sell the truck, with the earnings of the sale going directly to the fund.

PARKVIEW APARTMENTS & K-WEST APARTMENTS Quiet country living next to the park in Kellnersville, WI

Have One and Two Bedroom Apts Available!

WI-5001598410

1 & 2 bedroom apartments f r the elderly 62 and above fo for or qualified disabled Rent based on income Me Medical amounts deductible

Call C Ca all 920-732-3440 today! al

Poor Region Jensen’s travel itinerary is roughly 20 hours and he arrives at dusk and is ready to begin work at 8 a.m. the next day, when the locals are already lined up. “It is a poor, desperate area,” Jensen said. “It’s depressing to see the crowds of people lined up to receive care.” Before heading to the make-shift clinic, Jensen enjoys his solitude in the foreign land and listens to the clapping of the locals making tortillas and the woman singing. A WORLD OF SERVICE continued on page 10

Regency House

Live by the Senior Center

Comfortable Comf Co m or orta tabl blee 1 & 2 Bedr Bedroom droo o m Ap Apar Apartments artm tmen ents Inc Include: nclu l de de:: • Security Features • Hot Water Heat • Water & Sewer • Appliances WI-5001598388

• Garages Available • Safety Features • Laundry Facilities • Community Room

929 S. 31st Street Seniors 55+ Residence Across the street from Senior Center Shopping, Banking, Grocery Store, City Busline

• Soundprooﬁng • Elevator • Cable/Dish Ready • Monthly Socials *Income limits apply to 1 Bdrms.

management

For A Showing: (920) 684-1531 or info@parkregencymanagement.com

50 plus! . January 2013 . 9

Clinic nurse Linda Tipler works with a local woman while discussing health care in the Guatemalan village.

A WORLD OF SERVICE continued from page 9

“Roosters are crowing. I wake up at 4 to hear the morning coming to life,” he said. National health care consists of physicians who serve a large region. They come to each community one day a month. Residents get their first medical visit free. There is no follow-up care available, as it costs more than one month’s pay for a simple medical appointment. There is a high instance of cataracts, as the residents do not have protective sunglasses to wear in the fields day after day. Other ailments include hypertension,

10 . January 2013 . 50 plus!

diabetes, arthritis and the acute ear and eye infections. There is also mental illness such as depression and anxiety. You do see higher occurrences of parasites – the parasites are treated, but they just come back, Jensen said. “There is the same stuff that we have here, but more wear and tear on their bodies,” Jensen said.

Collaboration A lot can be learned from GMRP’s method of care delivery in the humble setting, according to Jensen. The group works in collaboration out of necessity.

“We have a common chart. We consult and collaborate. We are united by a common desire to serve,” Jensen said. “These principals of collaborations are embraced. The outcomes and quality of care are a remarkable testament to the delivery of health care,” he said. Jensen’s role in the group is not only to dispense medicine, but also do patient education, provide clinic support kits, conduct provider consultations, and teach glucose monitoring. A second pharmacist A WORLD OF SERVICE continued on page 12

Crossword: 2012 IN REVIEW

sudoku 55. Excessively 57. *PSY’s style 61. Bronx Bomber 64. Whippet or Basset, e.g. 65. Bard’s before 67. Lifeboat support 69. Elephant trainer’s goad 70. Summer mo. 71. “Lohengrin,” e.g. 72. In a golfer’s pocket 73. Registration, for short 74. One born to Japanese immigrants

Down

ACROSS

WI-5001591374

1. Come from an egg 6. Bad-mouth 9. Cargo 13. Gem state 14. Make a choice 15. Move sideways 16. Chocolate substitute 17. Wade’s opponent 18. *”The _____” moved to Chicago from NYC

19. *GOP’s 2012 choice 21. *Deceased singing legend 23. Pock mark disease 24. Boris Godunov, e.g. 25. Chicken order 28. Vegetative prickle 30. Speed of play, pl. 35. Like decorated cake 37. Luau souvenirs 39. Third rock from the sun

40. Laughing on the inside, in a chatroom 41. Small drum 43. Memorization method 44. Full of pep 46. Russian parliament 47. Farmer’s purchase 48. Auteur’s art 50. Peacock’s pride 52. *Ann to Mitt 53. “Anything ___?”

1. Wino’s sound? 2. Month of Purim 3. Tropical tuber 4. Bite 5. Rub elbows 6. Nemo’s forgetful friend 7. *Facebook’s big move 8. Seethes 9. Dryer fire hazard 10. Scandinavian war god 11. Burn soother 12. Refuse to accept 15. Evening party 20. Jump for joy 22. Pillbox or tricorne, e.g. 24. Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, e.g. 25. Whitman’s dooryard bloomer 26. A threat to food

Fill in the blank squares in the grid, making sure that every row, column and 3-by-3 box includes all digits 1 through 9. Crossword and Sudoku solutions on page 14.. safety 27. “___ __ on the ground floor” 29. Part of ROM 31. *”Curiosity” landing site 32. Preface 33. Weasel’s aquatic cousin 34. Outbuildings 36. *Felix Baumgartner’s space ____ 38. “Brave New World” drug 42. Indian side dish of yogurt and cucumbers 45. Corrects or edits 49. Chicken _ __ king

51. *Where many struck gold 54. _____ campaign 56. Giraffe-like African animal 57. Steps to the river 58. First rate 59. Heat in a microwave 60. African migrators 61. Safecracker 62. December 24 and 31, e.g. 63. Michael Collins’s country 66. Parisian way 68. Chi precursor

RN’s • Therapists • Bath Service • Companions Hospice • Housekeepers • Money Minders

1004 Washington Street • Manitowoc • 684-7155 • www.homecarehealth.org 50 plus! . January 2013 . 11

A WORLD OF SERVICE

the kids with the best chance to do well with the opportunity are selected. Jensen personally funds two children each year and the Two Rivers Rotary Club funds two additional children.

continued from page 10

will join the group in January, which will free Jensen up to do more teaching.

“You can’t leave it; it’s always with me when I come back,” Jensen said.

Part of the program, which is evolving, is to teach the community to sustain itself. Information on disease management, reproductive health, and dental care is shared with leaders who can provide a continuum of care throughout the year. These leaders are primarily women. Because literacy is low, Jensen developed a system of pictograms to instruct in follow-up care and proper medication dosing.

The future holds the promise of progress. Plans to build a permanent clinic are underway and GMRP has a jump start with donated land. This year a construction professional will join the delegation to work on infrastructure improvements. The Rotarians also built a well and piping to bring water to the huts. Within this humble community is a “watering hole,” a hut with cinder blocks turned on their sides for seating. Here the Americans join the locals and enjoy a beer, which is the only thing that is cold. There is electricity, though its reliability is lacking — they lose power at least once a day.

The median age in the area is 20. Jensen brings candy and gum to the many children. Growing up, these kids have two choices after they complete their sixth-grade education. Girls get married and work in the home. Boys go to work in the fields. The people wear clothes that are donated. For example you will see them sporting Super Bowl Champion T-shirts from the losing team, which are manufactured and often not sold.

Scholarships

The Americans stay at a ranch that a Rotarian from Madison owns and manages. Kico Gandara knew there were needs in this rural area of Guatemala and networked through his connections with Rotarians in Milwaukee to start GMRP.

The group funds roughly 60 scholarships for continuing education, which provides books, living and transportation. According to Jensen,

Tara Meissner is a freelance writer in Manitowoc. She can be reached at 920-860-6957 or tarameissner@ yahoo.com.

Boomerang kids continued from page 2

and parents if it’s handled well. When children move back home a closer bond can form between young adults and their parents, and this can lead to the young adults receiving financial, practical and emotional support from their parents.” In May, sociologists Karen L. Fingerman and Frank F. Furstenburg reported that “in 1988 less than half of parents gave advice to a grown child in the past month, and fewer than one in three had provided any hands-on help. Recent data show that nearly 90 percent of parents give advice and 70 percent provide some type of practical assistance every month.” This type of increased financial co-dependence between parent and child can lead to strain when living together again after a separation. If you are a parent with a young adult at home, it is important to communicate about expectations and responsibilities and to help your child build a solid financial foundation for their future. Egan says reviewing these tips can smooth the transition and can guide both the child and parent through a tough time:

Set expectations: Discuss with your child how much he/she should contribute to household expenses

Seasons Greetings from Everyone at Manitou Manor Let us welcome you home! We take pride in our apartments and it shows! You will be captivated by the beauty you will ﬁnd in the apartments, common areas, and grounds. For those 50 & up or adults with disabilities we offer rent that is 30% of adjusted gross income & includes utilities. We also offer a low-cost DirecTV package, are located on the bus line, and have a county nutrition site.

Visit us today and learn more about these special services:

Marv Moore, PharmD Brian Jensen, R.Ph., FACA Karl Schroeder, R.Ph. Joylyn Moore, PharmD WI-5001598362

• Personal Medication Counseling • Daily Delivery • Prescription Compounding • Online Reﬁlls • Bubble Packaging • Automatic Reﬁlls with our SmartFill Program • One Price Plan–Get a Large Supply of Your Medication and Save

Hours: M-F 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. Sat 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

��

12 . January 2013 . 50 plus!

• Tenant and staff-led activities • Pet-friendly • Large rec room with Wi-Fi, pool table, games and puzzles

Manitou Manor Apartments WI-5001598394

1433 No. 6th Street Manitowoc • 684-5865 http://manitoumanor.weebly.com

and tasks. A key to making the transition easy on everyone is having clear expectations for everyone involved both financially and otherwise.

Review your insurance and taxes (and theirs): Save

time and money by seeing if your boomerang child is covered by your health and/or car insurance. Also see if you are able to claim your child as a dependent.

Consider having them “pay rent:” Consider having

your child pay rent or at least a token amount for living expenses. This gets the child into the habit of paying a monthly amount. Or have a set amount of money go into a saving account monthly that the child could later use for a down payment on a house or car.

Help them keep busy:

While waiting to get hired, your child could continue to expand their resume. For example, remind them to consider volunteering, joining a professional

organization, connecting with a networking group or participating in an internship, even if it’s unpaid.

Focus on your own finances first: You may be

tempted to use retirement dollars toward financial assistance for your child, but don’t derail your own financial plans. Make sure your savings and retirement plans remain intact. Not sacrificing your own livelihood and continuing to invest in important options like life insurance, disability income insurance and long-term care insurance is critical to maintaining your overall financial health. Though you may not have planned on it, helping support your child after they’ve left home can be a springboard toward a healthy financial future for them. Following these tips can help ensure that the boomerang experience remains positive and the relationship remains strong. BPT

Study: Poor vision can isolate seniors BY ROBERT PREIDT | HealthDay Fear of falling leads about half of seniors with poor vision to limit their social activities, which puts them at risk for social isolation and disability, a new study shows. Researchers compared nearly 250 older adults with eye disease and about 100 with normal vision. Only 16 percent of those with normal vision said they limited their activities due to a fear of falling, compared with 40 percent to 50 percent of those with vision problems. People who were most likely to say they limited their activities due to the fear of falling were women, had worse vision, were more likely to be depressed and had a greater number of other health problems, according to the study, which was published recently in the journal Investigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science. “I was … surprised at how frequently people with eye disease reported limiting their activities due to fear of falling,” study author Ellen Freeman, of the ophthalmology department at the University of Montreal,

Skilled Nursing &

said in a journal news release. “Clearly, this is something that is affecting many people with eye disease.” The findings are not only important for older adults with eye disease, but also for their families, doctors and those who provide lowvision rehabilitation services. “It is important to know more about which activities are being limited due to fear of falling,” Freeman said. “We can then develop and test interventions to help people feel more confident about their ability to safely do those activities.” “If we could develop a brief, effective intervention focused on select activities, I would like to see it offered in the clinical setting,” she said. “Then we could encourage people to see a low-vision rehabilitation specialist if they want more training.” Freeman and her colleagues said older adults with eye disease should stay as mobile as is safely possible to help prevent health problems associated with being inactive, including disability and death.

Hamilton Care Center offers:

Rehabilitation Redeﬁned

Private and Semi-private rooms Inpatient and Outpatient Physical, Occupational, and Speech Therapy. Our therapists are trained in Lymphedema Therapy, Continence Treatment, Orthopedics and Neurological Treatment, including neuropathy. Licensed qualiﬁed social service professionals. Activities geared toward all levels of function. Caring, compassionate staff eager to meet your needs.

Hamilton Care Center

Come see the care provide. we can provide

We are located in a beautiful serene wooded setting near downtown Two Rivers

WI-5001598402

Schedule your tour today!

1-920-793-2261

Your hometown choice for Nursing and Rehabilitation Services!

1 Hamilton Drive | Two Rivers Wisconsin 54241 50 plus! . January 2013 . 13

Jointhe Club Look who’s 50 Jon Stewart (born Jonathan Stuart Leibowitz; Nov. 28, 1962) is an American political satirist, writer, television host, actor, media critic and standup comedian. He is widely known as host of The Daily Show, a satirical news program that airs on Comedy Central. Andrew Thomas McCarthy (born Nov. 29, 1962) is an American actor, award-winning travel writer and television director. He is known for his roles in the 1980s films “St. Elmo’s Fire,” “Mannequin,” “Weekend at Bernie’s,” “Pretty in Pink” and “Less Than Zero,” and more recently for his roles in the television shows Lipstick Jungle, White Collar and Royal Pains. Janine Turner (born Janine Loraine Gauntt; Dec. 6, 1962) is an American actress best known for her roles as Maggie O’Connell in the 1990-95 television series Northern Exposure, and as Dr. Dana Stowe on the Lifetime original series Strong Medicine from 2000-02.

Older drivers and new cars

What You Should Know You’ve spent a lifetime carefully saving your dollars and cents for important life moments — college tuition, a new house and retirement. But as you age, it’s more important than ever to make smart spending and lifestyle decisions. This doesn’t mean that you have to resign yourself to driving a vehicle that was new when you opened your first 401(k) account, though. In fact, people age 50 and older now account for 62 percent of buyers of new vehicles sold in the U.S., according to a study from AARP and J.D. Power. If you plan on driving in style after you retire, here are some smart spending and lifestyle tips to help put you behind the wheel of the right ride. You may already know that the end of the month — any month — is a better time to go car shopping than the beginning or even middle. That’s because sales people are eager to sell as many vehicles as possible before the month ends in order to qualify for bonuses from manufacturers. The same principle is in play at the end of the year - times five. Reducing inventory at the end of the year is essential for dealers to increase their revenue, and the final quarter of the year is their

last chance to secure a spot in the black for the year. Dealers are also challenged to keep your attention at a time when many people are being bombarded with sales messages while they holiday shop. Timing your purchase for the end of the year, or the end of a month, can help ensure you find the best deals available.

Safety pays You’ve been working hard to make good investments your entire life, and it shouldn’t come as a surprise that following safe driving practices is one investment that will pay off in the long run. In addition to helping to keep you and your car safe, safe driving insurance discounts can add up quickly. Additionally, in some states, taking a driver improvement course may help lower your insurance rates. AARP Driver Safety offers a course specifically designed to help drivers 50 and older refresh their driving skills. Taking a course can also help you manage health-related changes that are a natural part of the aging process. To find an AARP Driver

Safety classroom course near you, visit www.aarp.org/drive, call 888227-7669, or enroll in an online course — available in both English and Spanish. Participants may be eligible for a multi-year insurance discount upon completion of the course. Other restrictions may apply so they should consult their insurance agent for details.

Let’s talk tech Auto makers have been using technology to improve vehicle performance, usability and crash safety for decades. The current hot trend in auto-making expands the use of technology to help drivers maneuver more safely. You can now find a range of new car models — and not just luxury brands — that offer a variety of safety features. From an alarm that warns you when it’s unsafe to pass a slower vehicle in front of you, to a warning light that alerts you to vehicles in your blind spots, technology can help drivers be more aware of their surroundings. Some vehicles are even equipped with sensors that warn you when a crash may be imminent, and help you avoid the accident altogether. The high-tech accessories and systems can be especially useful for drivers 50 and older who may face natural heath-related changes in vision, hearing and reaction time. With smart spending plans, older drivers are able to invest in a new vehicle that fits their lifestyle and their budget. BPT

14 . January 2013 . 50 plus!

attention caregivers

Large Content Title

continued from page 7

While some still prefer paper checks and monthly visits to the bank, it’s important, as a caregiver, to ensure your care recipient takes advantage of the safety and convenience of electronic payments. It may be difficult to convince an aging parent or relative about switching to electronic payments. You can help your loved one see that making the switch can bring peace of mind knowing his or her money is safe. With the March 1, 2013, deadline coming up soon, time is running out to comply with the law and switch to electronic payment. You can help your care recipient switch his or her federal benefits payment to on electronic option online at www. GoDirect.org or by calling the U.S. Treasury Electronic Payment Solution Center toll-free at (800) 333-1795. Make sure your family member or friend has his or her information on hand when making the switch:

story bar headline

Social Security number or claim number 12-digit federal benefit check number Amount of most recent federal benefit check Financial institution’s routing transit number Account number and type - checking or savings You also can help your loved one contact the federal benefit agency office or financial institution to switch to direct deposit. The preceding information has been provided by the U.S. Department of the Treasury, Financial Management Service.

2 Great Locations Now For Comfortable Senior Living “We Care About Our Residents” • Spacious one-bedroom apartments

TAKING Age 50 & Up

Recovery Isn’t Simply a Goal, It’s Our Mission. When people leave the hospital, they often need continued care in order to recover completely. That’s where we come in. Our nursing and rehabilitation center provides intensive, short-term rehabilitation and compassionate long-term care with specialties in the areas of wound care, diabetes management, and cardio rehab. We invite you to pay us a visit and see for yourself what outstanding healthcare is all about. Learn more about our award-winning care at www.nrmrc.com

• Utilities included • On-site Resident Managers for your convenience & sse security ecurity

Nursing and Rehabilitation North Ridge

Subsidized apartments for the elderly

1445 North 7th Street, Manitowoc, WI 54220 920.682.0314 • 920.682.0553 fax • www.nrmrc.com

Village Green West WI-5001598393

2602 Forest Ave., Two Rivers • 794.8713

Village Green East

2401 Polk St., Two Rivers • 794.7961

Apartments available both locations

50 plus! . January 2013 . 15

CommunityDedication This year, as Shady Lane, Inc. celebrates sixty one years of quality care, we reflect on the dedication of our board, our staff, our donors, our residents and our community – all those we have served through quality, affordable care.

Find out why people...

Think of Us First for comfort of skilled care Designed for living with beautifully decorated and lovely gardens, Shady Lane offers skilled nursing care for short or long-term care, therapy services, social services and hospice care. Medicare and Medicaid Certified.

for planning to get better . . . Recovering after an illness, joint replacement or surgery is a team effort. In fact, it could be called "Team You"! We offer physical, occupational and speech therapy, respiratory services, pain management and neurological, orthopedic and cardiac rehabilitation. Medicare and Medicaid Certified and some private insurances. In-patient or Out-patient Services.

for the joys of home without the work From two bedroom apartments to single bedrooms with private bathrooms, Laurel Grove offers a variety of assisted living options to meet your needs. Enjoy the gardens, optional activities and care-free living. Starting at just $1450 a month including meals!

Now Open! HFM Clinic at Shady Lane Manitowoc’s only not-for-profit citizen directed care facility. 1235 South 24th Street • Manitowoc, WI • www.shadylaneinc.com • 920-682-8254 WI-5001598383

16 . January 2013 . 50 plus!