May 2012 MHL by Modern Health and Living

MHL

MILWAUKEE | MAY 2012 FREE PUBLICATION

Est 1992

MODERN HEALTH AND LIVING

Spring Allergies WHY THIS YEAR IS DIFFERENT THAN OTHER YEARS

Organic Gardening SPRING BALANCING TIPS

Children’s Summer Activities Guide SENIOR SPRING GUIDE BETTER HEARING

A GUIDE TO HEALTHY LIVING FOR MEN, WOMEN, CHILDREN AND SENIORS

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Editor’s Note Summer is right around the corner and I can’t wait! We did have a quite a few warm days in April and I took full advantage by taking long walks with my family, cleaning the garage and biking throughout lovely downtown Cedarburg. I truly feel healthier when the weather is warm. It brings a smile to my face and relieves a lot of stress. I encourage people to try to get out this May season and get a new weekly exercise routine. It’s time to get out of the house and into the sunshine (use sunscreen!). We have lined up a lot of great health articles for you. May is our annual Kids Feature. As a mother of two, I thought I would put a few articles to help us make wise decisions on their health and well being. It is also Older Americans Month! As always we wanted to give our senior readers some great articles that help them get the best out of life. We are very interested in staying healthy and we know you are, too. We have current health information for you and those you love. Every month we talk to local health care professionals and we try to get that information to you. You need to remember there are regional health issues and by contacting the health professionals here we can provide you with information that is pertinent to your health. We encourage you to contact us with your suggestions so we can make MHL a better paper for you. Stay healthy! -Amanda Lewis

May Edition 2012

MHL

MODERN HEALTH

HEALTHWISC | MAY

2012 FREE PUBLICATION

Est 1992

AND LIVING

Spring Allergies WHY THIS YEAR IS DIFFERENT THAN OTHER YEARS

Organic Gardening

MHL Staff

SPRING BALANCING

SENIOR SPRING GUIDE BETTER HEARING

A GUIDE TO HEALT

contributers

AND SENIORS

Berkeley Wellness Letter, John Hopkins Medical Letter, Environmental Nutrition, Nutrition Action Health Letter, Columbia/St. Mary’s, Wheaton Fransician, Milwaukee Eye Care, Eye Care Specialists, Aurora, NorthShore Chiropractic, National Pedorthic Services, Lifesteps Wellness Clinic, Advance Physical Therapy, Elite Fitness and Racquet Club, Alexian Brothers Village, Transformations, NIH, Jensen Health and Energy, Foot Solutions, Allergy and Asthma Centers, Lakeshore Medical, The Ommani Center, Active Care Rehab, Interfaith Older Adult Services, Jewish Family Services, Laureate Group, Alzheimer Association, Tudor Oaks, Luther Haven, HealthWise Chiropractic, Greensquare Center for the Healing Arts, Midwest Audiology Integrative Family Wellness Center Social Security Offices and American Camp Association

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WOMEN, CHILDREN

For information on advertising or to submit articles call, fax or email 414-659-6705 or 608-2376000, email: info@lewismediagroup.com. Subscriptions are $20 per year. Thanks for reading HealthWisc.

disclaimer

Lewis Media Group Amanda Lewis Malberry Media Marlys Lewis Jerry Kornowski Marlys Metzger Barry Lewis

HealthWisc is published on the first of each month . The articles in this publication are in no way intended to replace the knowledge or diagnosis of your doctor. We advise seeing a physician whenever a health problem arises requiring an expert’s care.

thanks

staff

HY LIVING FOR MEN,

publishers editor graphic design advertising distribution manager travel editor founder

TIPS

Children’s Summer Activ ities Guide

Special Thanks! To all the local professionals that provide us with articles containing new information and keeping all our readers informed of the latest in healthy living.

Lewis Media Group | Malberry Media | www.modernhealthandliving.com MAY 2012 | MILWAUKEE MHL |

Some Like It Hot! CHILI PEPPERS AND OTHER SPICY FOODS HAVE THEIR BENEFITS—AND RISKS

University of California, Berkeley Wellness Letter Some of us can’t imagine a meal without a heavy dose of hot chili pepper. Chili peppers have been used medicinally for centuries. In lab and animal studies, they have shown anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, anti-clotting and blood-pressure-lowering properties. And in small human studies, they have been shown to decrease resting heart rate, lower insulin levels, alter immune function and have modest beneficial effects on cholesterol and blood sugar. But this doesn’t mean they will prevent cancer, diabetes, hypertension or other diseases. A hot weight-loss aid? Some research, in animals and humans, suggests that the capsaicin and capsaicinrelated compounds in chili peppers can speed metabolism, increase fat burning and curb appetite. For example, a study in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition in 2009 found slightly greater abdominal fat loss in overweight people who took large doses of capsaicin-related substances (in capsules) for 12 weeks, compared to those taking a placebo.

| MHL MILWAUKEE | MAY 2012

What about the more moderate amounts of chili pepper people normally eat? In a 2011 study of young lean people, in Physiology and Behavior, consuming chili pepper in a meal led to reduced food intake and less hunger for fatty and salty foods—though only in people who didn’t normally eat spicy foods. That is, any benefit of spicy foods may subside with regular consumption. And the effects may never be great enough to lead to significant weight loss. A gut reaction Not surprisingly, spicy foods can aggravate some gastrointestinal problems. In particular, capsaicin can increase abdominal pain and burning in people with indigestion or irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), according to a 2010 review in the Journal of Neurogastroenterology and Motility. Studies have not consistently found that spicy foods worsen heartburn in people with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), however. Many people with GERD blame their heartburn on spicy foods—though there’s no evidence that abstaining from them reduces symptoms, according to a 2008 review in the Archives of Internal Medicine. Interestingly, regular consumption of capsaicin-containing foods has been linked with reduced GERD and indigestion. And in Asian countries such as China and Thailand, where people eat a lot of hot foods, there is actually a lower prevalence of GERD than in countries where people consume such foods less often. Of course, other factors besides the spiciness of foods may also be involved. Studies are mixed about whether spicy foods increase the risk of esophageal cancer. Though some studies in India and China have found an association, a 2010 paper in Cancer Causes and Control, for instance, did not. Chili peppers have been blamed for causing ulcers, but there’s no evidence that even the hottest ones are harmful. In fact, some research suggests that capsaicin may protect against ulcers. Bottom Line: If you like spicy foods and they like you, go ahead and turn up the heat. But if you have a gastrointestinal condition, evaluate your diet to see if spicy foods might be precipitating or exacerbating your symptoms. If they are a factor, you don’t necessarily have to eliminate all spicy foods, but you may want to at least tone it down. As for weight-loss claims, any effect of chili or capsaicin on appetite and calorie burning, even with large supplemental doses, is likely to be minimal at best and not longlasting. Reprinted with permission from the University of California at Berkeley Wellness Letter Copyright Health Letter Associates, 2012. To order a one year subscription, call 1-386-447-6328.

February 2011 Note

FOOT PAIN?

Breathing . . . It’s a good thing.

Allergies • Asthma • Sinus Disease • Obstructive Lung Disease

We are the Experts at keeping you breathing. Board Certified in Pediatric and Adult Allergy and Immunology “Top Doc” in Milwaukee Magazine 1996, 2000, 2004 & 2008

This month I wanted to start things off with new and modern changes. Starting with the QR code. Get your cell phones out and scan the code on the front and enjoy our new updated website. If you don’t have the phone that scans, no problem, just go to www.modernhealthandliving.com as find even more information about healthy living. I am very pleased that you’ve decided to join us this month. This is our BIG Health Awareness issue. We have packed so much up-to-date information into these pages that this issue is just bursting with health! We have something for men and women of all ages. We contact local health professionals every month and are thankful that many have contributed to this issue. They are keenly aware of health concerns for this region (very important). We stay in touch with them so they can stay in touch with you. I think you’ll find something here that can help you lead a healthier life. We hope that you share this special issue with friends and family, too. Speaking of family, I try to keep mine active throughout these cold months. My children are taking a Tae Kwon Do class 4 times a week. I encourage you to try to find something to keep your children active and social. Wheather its gymnastics, dance, sport or just running around in circles, staying active keeps the body and mind healthy and developing. To us adults with Super Bowl Sunday and myself hosting the monthly Bunco get together this equals food, food and even more food. It’s so important to keep ourself active, so it might be time to get that gym membership or start walking the malls again. Stay active!!! I hope you have a wonderful February and will touch base again in March -Amanda Lewis

Spring Allergies

[

February WHY 2011 EDITION IS THIS YEAR DIFFERENT

FROM ALL OTHER YEARS?

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Steven H. Cohen, MD Have you noticed that the onset of allergic symptoms seems to be a month earlier than usual? In Wisconsin the tree season usually begins during early to mid-April, dependingpublishers on the weather. Lewis LastMedia yearGroup the weather from mid-March to mid-June Amanda Lewis editor was not spring-like. It was cold and rainy, no one really wanted to be outside, and, Malberry Media design therefore,graphic people were not exposed to tree pollen. By the time we got to later June the Marlys Lewis weather had improved and typical seasonal Jerry Kornowski allergy symptoms were present, although somewhattravel latereditor than usual. Marlys Metzger Lewis of March was a pleasant anomaly. This past founder This year, the weather in Barry the month March was the warmest on record for most of the Midwest, including the entire state of Wisconsin. Wisconsin’s average March temperature was more than 5 degrees above the previous record warm March. The warm weather was due to the jet stream that amplified across the central U.S. This amplification helped draw warm air northward. Gulf moisture accompanied the warm temperatures across the Wisconsin region which made it feel like early May instead of March. Since the seasons were advanced in the South because of the unusually warm temperatures there as well, tree pollen counts soared. The pollen count in Atlanta, for example, broke the record set more than 10 years ago. This pollen was present in the northward-streaming air 6000, email: info@lewismediagroup.com. coming from the South to Wisconsin in significant to extreme levels.

Steven H. Cohen, M.D.

thanks

disclaimer

Tree pollen counts soared here as well, and seasonal allergy symptoms skyrocketed. to replace the knowledge or diagnosis of your doctor. Weconsistently advise seeing awarm physician whenNot onlyintended were we inundated with imported tree pollen, the weather healthtrees problem expert’s care. allowedever thealocal to arises bud requiring out andanstart to pollinate. As the weather changed and became more seasonal (cooler and rainy), the pollen counts decreased. As things become more normal weather-wise we will continue to be exposed to Wisconsin pollen and the “normal” Wisconsin allergy season will begin as the local trees leaf out. Dr.Lewis Cohen is a Group Board-Certified practicing in the Milwaukee area. His Media | Malberry allergist Media | www.modernhealthandliving.com office is in West Allis at 11121 W. Oklahoma Avenue. He can be reached at 414-5451111.

In-home and on location appointments: Call today 262-241-3668 MAY 2012 | MILWAUKEE MHL |

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TIPS TO BUST COMMON WORKOUT EXCUSES Life is hectic. Nothing seems to work. Gym memberships are expensive. There is an endless list of reasons to skip a workout or never begin exercising in the first place. With excuses blurring the benefits, getting fit can be an even bigger challenge. TOPS Club, Inc. (Take Off Pounds Sensibly), the nonprofit weight loss support organization, provides tips to overcome justifications for avoiding physical activity. “I’m too busy.” Make working out a priority and it will become routine. The best way to fit physical activity into your day is by setting a schedule and writing it on the calendar. If you don’t have time for an hour of cardio or weight training, take steps to ensure you move during the week – take the stairs, park at the back of the parking lot, do an abdominal workout during commercials. Ten-minute ‘mini’ exercises, such as a brisk walk during the lunch hour, are also useful. “I feel self-conscious.” Exercise at home with fitness DVDs and resistance cables. Once you have gained confidence, go outside, join a gym, or take an exercise class. If you want to beat the crowds at the fitness center, go mid-morning or late in the evening, when less people are around. “I don’t like working out.” Perhaps running or weight lifting is too monotonous for you. Working out doesn’t have to be something that’s painful or boring. Today’s workout world offers a variety of options to stay fit – yoga, hiking, swimming, dancing, Pilates, recreational sports, and more. Grab a friend and participate in a workout that you enjoy. “I don’t know how.” Personal trainers help people tailor their exercises to their ability and the proper intensity level. Whether you want to learn how to cycle indoors, dance, or play a sport, fitness classes with instructors can teach new movements and correct form. The staff at most gyms should be well-versed in their facility’s equipment; don’t be afraid to ask for help. “I can’t afford a gym membership.” Although fitness centers have a lot to offer, gym fees can be expensive. Perhaps your community’s local recreation department offers lowcost classes you can participate in. Walking or running outdoors are free, effective activities. You may even want to consider roller-blading. Fancy equipment isn’t necessary to get in shape – it’s more important to stay active on a regular basis. “I can’t get motivated.” Make a list of reasons to workout – to get healthy, boost energy, look better in your clothes, etc. Post the list in a place you look at everyday to remind yourself of your workout ambitions. Friends are also a great place to seek motivation. At TOPS, weekly chapter meetings give members the opportunity to cheer for and encourage one another in their weight-loss efforts. WORKOUT >> see page 15

| MHL MILWAUKEE | MAY 2012

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Some of the best gardens use layering. Combine layers of plants that grow at different heights. Curves are much more appealing to the eye than straight lines. Giving your garden area softer lines will add interest. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all in the details. Color is key to any gardening space.

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Â&#x192; Start up is a breeze new Craftsman EZ Push Button Startâ&#x201E;˘. Users will experience effortless starting with this keyless push button electric starting system. Simply push the button and go. Â&#x192; The mower also features the Craftsman exclusive Smooth Start Plus technology, which reduces by 20 percent the amount of pulling force required to start the engine. Plus there is no priming or choking necessary and a concentrated spark plug allows for easy starting under all conditions. Â&#x192; The Briggs & Stratton 725 Platinum Series engine is backed by the Briggs & Stratton Starting Promise â&#x20AC;&#x201C; â&#x20AC;&#x153;starts in 2 pulls or weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll fix it for free.â&#x20AC;? Â&#x192;

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MAY 2012 | MILWAUKEE MHL |

WHAT IS

Organic Gardening? Organic gardening is the same as regular gardening except that no synthetic fertilizers or pesticides are used. This can make certain aspects difficult, such as controlling disease, insects, and weeds. Organic gardening also requires more attention to the soil and the many needs of plants. Organic gardening starts with the soil. Gardeners must add organic matter to the soil regularly in order to keep the soil productive. In fact, compost is essential to the healthiness and well being of plants grown organically. Compost can be made from leaves, dead flowers, vegetable scraps, fruit rinds, grass clippings, manure, and many other things. The ideal soil has a dark color, sweet smell, and is full of earthworms. Some soil may need more natural additives than regular compost can give, such as bonemeal, rock phosphates, or greensand. A simple soil test will tell you the pH balance and which nutrients you will need to use. Defend Against Insects One thing that makes even gardeners that are very serious about organic gardening reach for pesticides is insects on their plants. The best way to defend plants against insects is to take preventative measures. One thing that can be done is to make sure plants are healthy and not too wet or dry because insects usually attack unhealthy plants and if healthy, they can often outgrow minor insect damage. A variety of plant types is a good idea to keep pests of a particular plant type from taking out the entire garden. GARDEN >> see page 38

| MHL MILWAUKEE | MAY 2012

LASER VISION CORRECTION RESHAPES PATIENTS’ FOCUS ON LIFE

That’s why we’re one of the only practices to dedicate a special hotline and staff just for counseling laser vision correction patients. Many people come to us, not just because of our credentials, but because our staff gives them the time and answers they deserve.” “AK, PRK, LASIK—the names of these procedures can sound like alphabet soup. I tell people to take advantage of free consultations to sort it all out, ask questions and determine if they are a candidate,” notes Holly Coons, the Laser Vision Correction Coordinator for Eye Care Specialists. “The best candidates are those who fully VISION >> see page 39

DO YOU SEE WHAT I SEE? By Cheryl L. Dejewski & Carolyn Vescio “We took a trip to Florida, and I was able to swim and open my eyes under water for the first time in several years.” “I couldn’t believe it! I was reading the license plates on the cars in front of us. Before, I would have struggled to see the cars.” “After 40 years of glasses and contacts, I now wake up in the morning and can see. It’s wonderful!”

What are these people raving about? Laser vision correction (LVC) to reduce their Most of us are born with near-perfect vision. But, that sometimes changes with need for glasses or contacts. disease or age. As state leaders in eye care, we help countless people each week to see like a kid again with Comprehensive Eye Exams; Diagnostic Laser Scans; If you’re near or farsighted, you can relate to the hassles. Wearing glasses or and State-of-the-Art Cataract, Glaucoma, Diabetes, Macular Degeneration, contact lenses requires strategic planning. There are constant concerns about wearing, Pediatric, & Laser Vision Correction Care. And, we’re affordable—accepting disinfecting, storing and losing lenses, as well as having to function at times while Medicare and most insurances. Call today and see for yourself why we are: “blind as a bat.” But, as the people above and Milwaukeean Jenell Hackley have Trusted by more than 121,000 doctors & patients discovered, you don’t always have to live like this. “Top Doctors”— Milwaukee Magazine “Right now, I’m happier than a pig in slop!” is Hackley’s jovial take on life after Call 414-321-7035 or visit www.eyecarespecialists.net for free brochures on any eye concern laser vision correction. Hackley, 58, wore contact lenses for most of her adult years before deciding to look into LASIK surgery with Dr. Mark Freedman at Eye Care West Allis Specialists in Milwaukee. “Contact lenses were getting expensive,” recalls Hackley. 10150 W. National Av. 414-321-7520 “I had bottles of cleansing solution and cases everywhere. I complained to my Wauwatosa optometrist, and he highly recommended the surgery and Dr. Freedman.” 2323 N. Mayfair Rd. “Refractive surgery involves reshaping the cornea to improve the eye’s focusing 414-258-4550 ability and thus reduce, or in some cases eliminate, the need for glasses or contact Milwaukee Norman Cohen, MD Robert Sucher, MD 735 W. Wisconsin Av. Mark Freedman, MD Brett Rhode, MD lenses to correct nearsightedness (difficulty seeing in the distance), farsightedness 414-298-0099 Daniel Ferguson, MD David Scheidt, OD (difficulty seeing objects up close), and/or astigmatism (irregular curvature of the cornea). Years ago, this reshaping was accomplished with an incisional surgery procedure called radial keratotomy or RK. Now, however, the reshaping is done microscopically using laser procedures called PRK and LASIK,” explains Freedman. “Although refractive surgery is most for non-invasive, FDA approved treatment. commonly performed on people in their 20s, 30s and 40s; most people past the age of 50 have successful results,” says Freedman. “As with Ms. Hackley, many baby boomers elect to have refractive surgery to improve their distance vision enough to reduce or eliminate the need for bifocals and thus switch to using only reading glasses. Other patients have such active lifestyles that they prefer the convenience of being less dependent upon corrective lenses.” In addition, some people choose to have LVC because of • Pain, balance and sensation status is evaluated before and after treatment. difficulty wearing contacts due to dry eye disease, arthritis, or other conditions. • All Major Insurances Accepted Including Medicare and Medicaid Eye Care Specialists’ co-founder and well-known cataract surgeon, Dr. Robert • CALL 414-228-7900 to schedule an appointment Sucher comments, “We know what a big decision eye surgery is for people.

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Well-Being 10 | MHL MILWAUKEE | MAY 2012

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Dr. William F. Hughes, Jr. Acupuncture Clinic of Wauwatosa A recent research finding on Cancer Patients shows that nearly half of the cancer patients die from other problems. Doctors say that the study shows that patients need to take a more comprehensive approach to their overall health instead of just focusing on their major problem. People can be so concerned with the cancer and its treatment that symptoms of other problems are often overlooked. General feelings of weakness, aches and pains and lack of sleep are attributed to the cancer. Meanwhile, many of these symptoms are indicators of other problems and would be cause for concern if it were not for the cancer and the difficult treatments. Acupuncture is part of Traditional Chinese Medicine (Oriental Medicine) and has been successfully treating people for more than 3,000 years. It has a great reputation for getting rid of pain, easing stress and promoting good health. Oriental Medicine recognizes that a body must be balanced in order to be healthy. Treatments by Oriental Medical Doctors work on the principal of clearing up any stagnation in the body and restoring the “FREECOURSING OF QI AND BLOOD”. It is in the process of restoring the free coursing of Qi and Blood that overall healing can occur. There are many cases of healing a patients problem, even though the problems were not discussed with the doctor. This happens because under the influence of acupuncture and herbs the body is returned to balance and overall healing can occur. This is a great health benefit. Your Oriental Medical Doctor is aware that the symptoms presented by a patient are only the “tip of the iceberg” and there are other problems that can be causing the symptoms. That is why during treatment many underlying causes are also being silently treated. Many patients feel that when a symptom disappears the healing has happened. In most cases, this is just an indication of the progress of healing in the body. It can sometimes take an additional month or two to heal the underlying cause. During treatments, the body is being balanced and will focus the healing energy on problems that are not immediately recognized. Yet, a patient that returns to balance has had major health restoration and should have fewer problems in the future. Many patients revisit the OM Doctor for periodic “maintenance” to keep their balanced body in good working order. These patients receive the silent benefit of a well balanced body with better health, more energy and an improved quality of life. Try Acupuncture and find out for yourself why this medicine is practiced worldwide and has a increasing patient base in the United States. Just because it is different does not alter the fact that there are so many success stories. If you seem to have unresolved problems give acupuncture a try. You will be surprised with the positive results! For more information contact Acupuncture Clinic of Wauwatosa at 414-6070900. MAY 2012 | MILWAUKEE MHL | 11

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FOR ALLERGIES & COLDS In temperate climates, such as here in Wisconsin, you know spring has arrived with the heavy shift in air pressure, the slightly warmer but still mostly cool temperatures, and wet rains with increased humidity. Along with these seasonal environmental changes come the accompanying spring health conditions of colds, flus and seasonal allergies. From the Ayurvedic perspective, the spring season is dominated by the kapha, one of the three bio-chemical life forces or doshas which exist within your body and in the external world around you. As an individual, although you have all three energies, you will have one or two in larger amounts which creates your constitutional body-type or prakruti. Your constitution can predict which illnesses, conditions and symptoms you are more prone towards as well as which foods and lifestyle factors will keep you healthy. Because these doshas exist not only within your body system but in everything in the universe, you are affected both by the lifestyle choices you consciously make as well as the weather, climate and stages of life over which you have no control. All these external factors add to the levels of these bio-chemical forces in your body and play a role in physical and mental health. The life forces or doshas are recognized by their qualities. The general qualities of kapha are heavy, dense, wet or oily, cool and solid or stable which make sense considering kapha is made up of elemental earth and water. If you have an excess of this life-force in your system, it will feel a little like having a wet blanket over you and you may experienceâ&#x20AC;Ś â&#x20AC;˘ Colds or flus with a wet cough, difficulty breathing, excess mucus and sinus pressure â&#x20AC;˘ Lethargy â&#x20AC;˘ Dullness or heaviness in the mind â&#x20AC;˘ Sadness or mild depression â&#x20AC;˘ Stiff muscles â&#x20AC;˘ Swollen joints â&#x20AC;˘ A desire to sleep more â&#x20AC;˘ Sluggish digestion possibly with nausea If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re experiencing any of the above symptoms, help your bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s immune system adjust to the changes with an Ayurvedic approach. To balance the excess doshas or life-force, elements made up of the opposite qualities of the imbalanced dosha(s) are used. In the case of Kapha, this generally means bringing in more dry, light, warm, stimulating food and lifestyle activities. Ayurvedaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s treatments are individually tailored according to not only the seasonal needs but also the individual constitution and current state of health. For best results, consult an Ayurvedic Practitioner for a thorough assessment and customized food, lifestyle and herbal program. In the meantime, manage the impact of the kapha-full spring season and help make those chronic seasonal allergies and conditions a thing of the past by incorporating some of the following activities: â&#x20AC;˘ Enjoy dry saunas â&#x20AC;˘ Get moving by exercising regularly. â&#x20AC;˘ Get out of your ruts by challenging your mind with new activities and engaging in new relationships to expand yourself emotionally. â&#x20AC;˘ Receive a deep massage â&#x20AC;˘ Try not to sleep past 6 am and avoid daytime napping â&#x20AC;˘ Minimize heavy, oily, sweet foods such as meat, dairy, wheat products and sugar â&#x20AC;˘ Eat drying grains like barley, corn, buckwheat, millet, and dry cereals and granola â&#x20AC;˘ Eat more light, warming foods such as soups with vegetables, beans and whole grains flavored with moderately warm spices and less salt Learn more about Ayurveda at www.ayurvedawellness.org or contact Jamie Durner of Ayurveda Wellness with questions or to schedule a complimentary 15 minute informational consultation at jdurner@wi.rr.com. ÂŠ2012, Jamie Durner, Ayurvedic Natural Health Practitioner and Wellness Educator

Bio-Identical (Natural) Hormone Balancing for Breast Health

By Susan J. Riegg, MD The month of October was designated at “National Breast Cancer Awareness Month” in 1986; this year we celebrate the 25th anniversary of at the forefront of promoting awareness of breast cancer issues. The National Breast Cancer Awareness Month (NBCAM) organization is a partnership of national public service organizations, professional medical associations, and government agencies working together to promote breast cancer awareness, share information on the disease, and provide greater access to screening services. Breast Cancer Prevention While there is extensive dialog regarding the various methods to diagnose breast cancer, treatment options, adhering to prescribed treatment, and knowing the facts about recurrence, we generally hear very little about preventive measures that may be instituted in order to reduce risk of breast cancer from occurring in the first place. In fact, many physicians practicing conventional (western) medicine still believe that there is nothing that can be done proactively in order to reduce this risk. Nothing could be further from the truth. Reducing risk for occurrence of breast cancer can (and should) be done for all women. It involves balancing estrogen with appropriate physiological doses of natural (bio-identical) progesterone. We refer to this imbalance as “estrogen dominance”, and it is very, very common in women after the age of 45. Estrogen dominance refers to a relative excess of estrogen when progesterone levels are inadequate. This condition can occur in women during the reproductive years, but tends to be particularly symptomatic for women during perimenopause and in menopause. Estrogen dominance is particularly prominent in women whom are no longer ovulating, in women being exposed to synthetic estrogens, and/or in women not metabolizing estrogens correctly. Following the publication of results of the Women’s Health Initiative in 2002, which showed greater risk among women using synthetic pharmaceutical hormones (such as Premarin or Prempro), the emphasis is rapidly shifting away from synthetic hormone replacement to balancing hormones naturally. An estimated two million American women are already using bio-identical hormones as a safer alternative to synthetic hormones. Numerous scientific studies in the peer reviewed literature link high estrogen or estrogen imbalance with a wide range of symptoms and conditions, including hot flashes, night sweats, low libido, mood swings, anxiety, sleeping problems, depression, breast tenderness, headaches, bloating, and foggy thinking. Additionally, estrogen dominance is linked to more serious conditions related to reproductive health (endometriosis and PCOS) as well as breast disease including cancer (ductal carcinoma in situ, invasive carcinoma). Hormone imbalances triggered by medications like synthetic hormone combinations have also been found to contribute to estrogen dominance problems. The Importance of Balancing Hormones Naturally Women of all ages benefit from appropriately balanced hormones. Laboratory testing is absolutely essential in understanding the underlying condition. In this manner, the laboratory results can be correlated with the patient’s symptom profile to make treatment decisions. Health care providers working with perimenopausal and menopausal women find hormone testing to be a key step in detecting and correcting imbalances. Testing hormone levels is also invaluable for monitoring women using bio-identical hormone replacement therapy. As advocates for women’s health and wellness, we remain dedicated to educating and empowering women to take charge of their own breast health by knowing their options and having access to the laboratory testing and treatment with bio-identical (natural) hormones. We also advocate that all women continue regular self-breast exams to identify any changes, scheduling regular visits and annual mammograms with their healthcare provider, adhering to prescribed treatment, and knowing the facts about recurrence. Dr. Susan J. Riegg is a 1990 graduate of The Medical College of Wisconsin. She did her postdoctoral work at the Medical College of Wisconsin Affiliated Hospitals in Anatomic and Clinical Pathology. Dr. Riegg is a board certified Clinical and Anatomic Pathologist with 20 years of experience in medicine, laboratory science, and anatomic (surgical) pathology. Her office can be reached by calling 414-292-3900, Ext 254. For more information, visit our website at www.GreenSquareCenter.com. MAY 2012 | MILWAUKEE MHL | 13

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TICK SEASON IS HERE

Are You Ready? Lyme disease and other Tick-borne diseases are on the rise and getting more difficult to diagnose. The conventional testing is weak at best and the symptom presentation of these infections can be so variable that many physicians may miss the signs and symptoms of infection. A recent map which pinpoints areas of the eastern United States where the highest risk of exposure to Lyme disease came out in the February issue of the American Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene. The highest risk areas included most of Wisconsin, northern Minnesota and much of the northeast from Maine to northern Virginia. It is also suspected that the tick population will be higher than usual this year partially due to the lack of the deep freeze with our mild winter which helps to control the population of ticks. The infection rate is increasing dramatically with the US Center for Disease Control (CDC) reporting 30,000 to 40,000 cases annually compared to 15,000 in the mid-1990s. However the CDC admits that the numbers could be as much as 12 times higher than reported. The Lyme bacterium, Borrelia burgdorferi (Bb), is a highly intelligent organism with an amazing capacity to avoid detection in the body. It has many potential mechanisms for this including evading immune system detection. Another problem with testing may be due to individuals with less than optimal immune responses to the exposure. A Johns Hopkins study in 2005 discovered that commercial tests may miss 75% of Lyme disease cases. Patients and doctors alike are used to thinking that a classic bullâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s-eye rash at the location of the tick bite is required for a diagnosis of Lyme disease. It is estimated, however, that up to 50 % or more cases never develop this bullâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s-eye rash but go on to develop the other symptoms of infection. The additional symptoms individuals should be watching for include but are not limited to the following: flu-like illness, severe fatigue, stiff neck, joint pain or swelling, muscle pain, tingling/numbness or burning sensations, shortness of breath, palpitations or chest pain. It is important to see a doctor, preferably a Lyme Literate physician, if you experience any of these symptoms or any other acute or chronic symptoms that persist without a clear diagnosis being made. Many chronic cases resemble and may be misdiagnosed as chronic fatigue, fibromyalgia, neurological conditions such as Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinsonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s disease or ALS. Children may be diagnosed with seizure disorders, behavioral disorders such as ADHD or many of the conditions falling under the umbrella of Autism Spectrum Disorders. Protection methods for tick season should be taken seriously and include all family members. These would include wearing hats, light colored clothing, tucking pants in socks and wearing protective repellants on the body and on clothing when outdoors. Clothes may be sprayed with a DEET containing product but should not be put on the body until after sprayed and allowed to dry. For the body, many products exist that contain essential oils (eucalyptus, thyme, tea tree, citronella, lavender and a few others) that are effective repellants and safe to use on the skin. I recommend drinking an herbal tea called Cistus tea (2-3 cups per day) throughout the season as it provides the body with a compound that also repels ticks. Treatment of acute infections will require antibiotics for a longer period of time than most other infections and may need to address co-infections (infections contracted by the same tick exposure). Co-infections such as Bartonellosis, Babesiosis and Ehrlichiosis are examples of infections that can cause illness as serious as Lyme disease or worse. There are also natural treatments that are excellent to incorporate with antibiotic therapy but should be provided through a health care provider who has experience with Lyme disease and co-infection treatment. Further information on Lyme and Tick-borne diseases is available through the Wisconsin Lyme Network (www.wisconsinlyme.net). Kim E. Saxe, ND, Integrative Family Wellness Center, Ph:262-754-4910 (Dr. Saxe specializes in the treatment of chronic illness with a focus on chronic and acute Lyme disease and related infections as well as providing naturopathic medical care for a broad spectrum of other conditions)

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A New Monthly ColumnI am grateful to be introducing “Redefining Health”, my column for Modern Health and Living where I will share my experiences as a physician and my thoughts and feelings about how our community is transforming the cultural definitions of health care and medicine at large. I founded The Ommani Center for Integrative Medicine in 2001 in Pewaukee, WI. At The Ommani Center, we have expanded the diagnostic tool box of medicine from focusing only on physical body to The Four Body System™ which is inclusive of the Emotional, Mental and Energy body in addition to the physical body. The practice of conventional and complementary medicine integratively through this context, while maintaining standard-of-care, has resulted in a more effective system of medical diagnosis and treatment. It is also more therapeutically and cost-effective compared to our existing model of health care and provides more fulfillment and empowerment for its physicians, practitioners and patients. In this column I will be sharing my philosophies about health and health care from this context in order to evoke the deeper and real questions that may lead us to answers regarding the kind of health care we need and deserve. We have to collectively create this version to serve us at all levels. We are living in a time when none of our systems are working. They are REACTIVE and lack a balance of the Feminine and Masculine Principles. Women’s Health in particular is suffering from grave neglect as women are dismissed by our current system through its pathological and one-dimensional framework that is unfulfilling and dangerous for them. Rather than fighting a system that is disinterested in these issues, we collectively need to CREATE a new system, one that integrates the Feminine Principle with the Masculine and elevates and embraces consciousness through its commitment to true healing and wholeness. This is what we all deserve. In this monthly column, I will be exploring topics related to health, healing and empowerment from this expanded framework. I am deeply grateful for this opportunity to share this important work so that together we can create the change that is needed. Kalpana (Rose) M. Kumar M.D., CEO and Medical Director of The Ommani Center for Integrative Medicine, Pewaukee, Wi, www.ommanicenter.com Author of Becoming Real: Harnessing the Power of Menopause for Health and Success. 2011, Medial Press.

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WORKOUT << see page 15 “I don’t see any results.” It’s important to understand that exercise may not produce immediate physical changes. Remember your long-term goals and think about how working out makes you feel. Writing down the little improvements you see on a daily basis can be helpful. TOPS Club Inc. (Take Off Pounds Sensibly), the original, nonprofit weight-loss support and wellness education organization, was established more than 63 years ago to champion weight-loss support and success. Founded and headquartered in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, TOPS promotes successful, affordable weight management with a philosophy that combines healthy eating, regular exercise, wellness information, and support from others at weekly chapter meetings. TOPS has about 170,000 members in nearly 10,000 chapters throughout the United States and Canada. Visitors are welcome to attend their first TOPS meeting free of charge. To find a local chapter, view www.tops.org or call (800) 932-8677.

MAY 2012 | MILWAUKEE MHL | 15

Women’s Health Issues AND ESTROGEN DOMINANCE Dr. Joanne Aponte, ND Do you have hot flashes, painful or irregular periods, unbearable PMS symptoms, cystic breasts or a history of breast cancer? If you answered yes, you might be estrogen dominant! Estrogen dominance means the body has too much estrogen and not enough progesterone to balance it out. In the female body, estrogen and progesterone are the two primary hormones. Testosterone—the primary male hormone—plays a secondary role. The balance among these three hormones is crucial for regulating your menstrual cycles, sense of wellbeing, reproductive health and energy levels. Who suffers from estrogen dominance? Estrogen dominance can affect women of all ages and many women’s health conditions. Even your hot flashes could be due to estrogen deficiency! This might surprise you as just about everyone thinks hot flashes are due to not enough estrogen. However, as Dr. Christiane Northrup MD, the author of Women’s Bodies, Women’s Wisdom, explains, even for many women nearing menopause who experience hot flashes, the real problem is estrogen dominance.

16 | MHL MILWAUKEE | MAY 2012

All too often women and their health practitioners are quick to turn to hormone replacement to treat menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes, fatigue and insomnia, thinking that the cause of the symptoms is a deficiency in estrogen. While it is true, estrogen levels decrease during menopause, estrogen levels do not start to fall in any significant way until the woman’s last period. The fact is, more perimenopausal women are suffering from “estrogen dominance” during transition time. Women in their 20s and 30s and teenage girls may also be estrogen dominant. Whenever a female patient sees me with female-related issues such as PMS, heavy menstrual cycles, painful periods, breast cysts, or a history of breast cancer, estrogen dominance is on my list of conditions to investigate. Even for women with a low functioning thyroid (hypothyroidism), estrogen dominance may be a causative factor, as estrogen is shown to interfere with thyroid hormone production. What causes estrogen dominance? There are several causes of estrogen dominance. Excess exposure to estrogen-like compounds in the environment, called xenoestrogens, is one example. Xenoestrogens are chemicals that act

like or mimic estrogen in the body. These include chemicals in detergents, plastics and many self-care products. Another example is Bisphonel-A. BPA is an estrogen mimicker that is found in plastics and metal cans. Also, exposure to estrogen from foods and medications increases the estrogen in the body. Animals such as cattle are fed hormones to accelerate growth. These hormones then end up in the milk and meat you consume. Synthetic estrogens such as birth control pills and hormone replacement therapy (HRT) are another culprit. Various digestive issues including constipation can also lead to estrogen dominance because estrogens are eliminated through the digestive tract in the stool. A high body fat composition (> 28%) can also lead to estrogen dominance. Did you know that your fat cells produce their own estrogen? Finally, lifestyle choices such as poor diet (especially one high in sugar, carbohydrates and unhealthy fats) smoking and alcohol use are also risk factors. What Can Be Done To Address Estrogen Dominance? Much can be done to decrease the esWOMEN’S HEALTH >> see page 38

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e m i t r e Summ

Even though children may be away from school during the summer months, they can still be actively engaged in learning. Summer learning can benefit all students, from those who are struggling in the classroom to those who are especially gifted. “Parents and caregivers can help a child retain what he has learned over the school year, and even improve basic skills, by making sure the child is involved in productive activities during summer vacation,” says Sarah Houser, principal of the School for Early Development & Achievement public charter school. “And it doesn’t have to cost a lot of money.”

HOUSER SUGGESTED 10 SUMMER ACTIVITIES FOR KIDS:

one

Visit your local public library and sign up for a summer reading program. In Mil waukee, visit mpl.org/summerreading for more information.

two Make sure your child reads at least 30 minutes per day. three Take your child to local museums and parks. four If your child is on the computer, make sure he is using educational websites: dis covery.com, funbrain.com, nationalgeographic.com and starfall.com.

five six

Discuss current events. Have your child keep a journal – not only do they need to read over the summer – they need to write! Or, have them write letters to friends and family about their summer activities.

seven Keep your child moving – children need lots of exercise for a brain health and overall well-being. Local playgrounds and parks often offer organized activities, such as day camps, which include games and sports.

eight nine

e m i T g n i n r a e Can Be L

Stay on a schedule and make sure your child gets enough sleep. Limit the amount of television your child can watch each day.

If a child has a learning disability or a developmental disability, Houser says, it’s especially important to encourage learning in the summer months, so that the child can maintain skill levels developed during the school year. Local nonprofit agencies often provide specialized summer activities for children with special needs. The Milwaukee Center for Independence, for example, offers a summer “Kaleidoscope” program for children with profound disabilities, as well as a “Sensational Summer Camp,” focusing on sensory activities, for children with autism. For more information on summer programs for children living with disabilities, contact Tracey Sparrow, Vice President of Children’s Programming, Milwaukee Center for Independence at 414.937.3990 or tracey.sparrow @mcfi.net.

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Ethan Schafer, Ph.D. When I was fifteen, I was in my sixth summer at a traditional camp for boys in New Hampshire. One night after dinner, my counselor from the year before (a sixfoot, five-inch English rugby player) asked me if I wanted to throw a baseball around. We spent an hour or two playing catch and talking about whatever came up. I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t remember the specifics of our conversation, who else was there, or what was going on around us. What I do remember, and still enjoy thinking about, are the positive feelings that resulted from having the undivided attention of someone I essentially worshipped. For some reason, this particular event stands out in my mind, though there were hundreds more like it over the course of my camp career. As a former counselor with fifteen years of experience, and now as a mental health professional specializing in working with children, I am convinced that the cumulative power of small moments like these illustrate the unique manner in which camp helps children reach their full potential. Why is Camp So Good for Children? Many camp professionals will describe their camp community as a family. I canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t think of a more accurate description. One of the reasons that well-run camps are so good for children is that they emulate the processes found in what psychologists call authoritative families. Parents who are authoritative provide their children with a great deal of structure and have high expectations of their children, while simultaneously providing a high degree of emotional warmth and encouragement. They can be distinguished from parents who are permissive (high emotional availability, but little structure and low expectations), or authoritarian (high expectations and structure, but low on emotional warmth and encouragement). When I work with parents, I often describe permissive parents as the â&#x20AC;&#x153;spoilers,â&#x20AC;? and authoritarian parents as the â&#x20AC;&#x153;dictators.â&#x20AC;? There are literally decades of psychological research supporting the conclusion that authoritative parenting is most likely to result in children who are happy, independent, and secure in themselves. Good camps are like good families: clear expectations are given, rules are enforced in a fair and sensitive manner, and campers are given warmth, respect, and encouragement. Substitute â&#x20AC;&#x153;camp counselorâ&#x20AC;? for CAMP >> see page 20

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CAMP << see page 19 “parent,” and we get the “big picture” reason for why camp is so good for children. What about My Child? Good camps also help children by matching their programs to the developmental level of the child. Psychologists will often speak of “developmental tasks” or “ageappropriate challenges” when discussing what children of different ages need to learn in order to develop appropriately. Camp is one of the few areas of your child’s life where the program can be matched to specific needs and developmental tasks, helping children make the most of their natural strengths. In my opinion, the camp experience is superior to most schools in this regard, as camps make no assumption that all third graders, for example, need to learn the same things or be treated the same way. Keeping in mind that children of the same chronological age can vary widely in terms of emotional, social, and intellectual development, the following can be used as a general set of guidelines for what you can expect your child to get out of camp whether your choice is a day camp close to home or an overnight camp in a neighboring state. Children — Four to Six Years Although children of this age may seem too young for camp, almost all of them can benefit from day camp, and in more precocious cases, overnight camp. Young children are learning how to explore their world, gradually spending more time away from their parents’ side. Day camp, or a brief, overnight camp is an ideal place for young children to experience being away from their parents in a safe, nurturing environment. Good camps will have many structured, productive activities such as crafts and field trips that also help children get used to following a schedule. There is also no substitute for constant interaction with other children under adult supervision when it comes to developing social skills necessary for a successful entry into school. The staff-to-child ratio at most camps here will often be much better than that of a school or day care. Children — Seven to Nine Years Elementary school-age children are an entertaining group. Their interests change frequently as they are exposed to new ideas and opportunities. Think of this developmental period as one enormous “trial-and-error” episode, where children will “try on” all sorts of different likes and dislikes. Camp is a particularly good match for this age group, given the chances to participate in activities that are unlikely to be available elsewhere: archery, horseback riding, hiking, sailing, or nature exploration, as well as more typical activities such as team sports. The variety of activities offered at camp fits nicely with this group of children, who are often especially open-minded about trying new things. Social development is also critical in this period, as early friendships are formed and the child’s individual personality begins to express itself. There’s an old saying in psychology that all parents believe the environment is everything, the “nurture over nature” school . . . . until they have their second child. Some children are simply born more introverted, preferring to be in small groups or alone; others are born more extraverted, enjoying large groups and being the center of attention. Either way is fine. What summer camp provides, because of the sheer amount of time young children spend playing with each other, is the chance to experience the structured and unstructured social interactions of childhood that allow them to determine what kind of person they are going to be. Children — Ten to Twelve Years Children of these ages are beginning to define their individuality. Particularly in girls, this period of time is characterized by great variation in physical and emotional development. As those of you who have what the media calls “tweens” in your house can attest, one eleven-year-old can still be engrossed in cartoons and action figures or dolls, while another spends an hour getting ready for school, seems obsessed with the opposite sex or who did or did not say “hi” to them in the hallway, and so on. I have worked with several children who voiced the frustration of feeling forced to “be too grown up” on one hand, as well those who are tired of “being treated like a little kid” on the other. The variety of social, athletic, and outdoor activities offered through camp addresses these issues very well. If your child is still “young for his or her age,” camp will allow them to spend time with other children doing “kid stuff’ until they are ready to move on. The more “mature” child will have similar opportunities with older children, without fear of being ostracized. Whatever your “tween” child is ready for, camp provides a safe, supervised set of opportunities to explore and define individual interests and motivations — a wonderful gift for children as they enter adolescence. Ethan Schafer specializes in working with children and families. He holds a Ph.D. in child clinical psychology and writes frequently on topics surrounding child development and camp. Originally printed in CAMP Magazine, reprinted by permission of the American Camp Association © 2005 American Camping Association, Inc.

20 | MHL MILWAUKEE | MAY 2012

Children’ Summer Activities Directory 2012 Girl Scouts 414.476.1050 www.girlscoutsmilwaukee.org

Camp Anokijig W5639 Anokijig Ln. Plymouth 920-893-0782

d An all-girl, outdoor environment is a

d Camp Anokijig is a camp for kids ages

great place to build courage, confidence, and character. At our Day Camp and Overnight Camp girls enjoy crafts, swimming, outdoor cooking, games, sports, nature, and new friends. SCAMP at Highlander Elite 13825 W. Burleigh Rd., Brookfiled WI Jody Brunner (262) 786-0880 d Located at Highlander Elite Fitness &

Racquet’s premiere facility, where’s never a rain-out, Scamp, an Elite Day Camp, celebrates its 20th year of summer fun. Tennis, swim, karate, art & crafts and a full schedule of indoor & outdoor action means there’s never a dull moment at SCAMP for kids, ages 5 - 12.

ARTISTANDDISPLAY 9015 W Burleigh St Milwaukee, WI 53222 414-442-9100 d Art Classes for ages 8-13 after school week long summer classes.

7-16. It is an overnight residential camp with traditional camp activities plus Horses, Adventure Trips, and Specialty Programs. Sessions range from 3 days to 1 or more weeks. We are ACA accredited. New Friends, Positive Values, Personal Growth, Great Adventures, and Outrageous Fun.

First Stage Children’s Theater www.firststage.org 325 West Walnut Street Milwaukee, WI 53212 (414) 267-2929 d First Stage, based in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, provides exceptional experiences for young people and their families, and a arts-in-residence resource for schools.

LaFleur

N84 W13480 Leon Road Menomonee Falls 262-255-9700 www.lafleurgym.com

d We know it’s a rough and tumble world. Greg

LaFleuer has made it his job to prepare kids to meet the physical demands of the world –that training literally includes tumbling, vaulting and more. Since 1986, LaFleur has owned and operated LaFleur’s Academy of Gymnastics. The academy, offers a variety of programs for kids from as young as 1 ½ years old through their high school years. The majority of youngsters taking part in the gymnastics, LaFleur’s fall into the 5-9 year old category. There are a number of attractions for participants to the gymnastics program. The first is simply the enjoyment of gymnastics.

Tamarack Waldorf School info@tamarackwaldorf.org 414-277-0009 d Register now for “Summer Magic”, an

exciting new summer camp for children at Tamarack Waldorf School in Milwaukee. A few camp examples are: Fiber Craft Studios, Music Festival, Fairy Garden and Gnome Homes, Painting and collage, and Cooking With Confidence. Find full descriptions and registration form at the website www.tamarackwaldorfschool.org .

YMCA Camp U-Nah-Li-Ya 12101 Y Camp Road Suring, WI 54174 715-276-7116 www.campunahliya.org YMCA Camp U-Nah-Li-Ya, a Place of Friends, has touched the lives of many children through our resident camp, specialty camp, wilderness adventure trip, and teen leadership programs since 1937. We appreciate the value of a positive and fun camp experience for our children. We invite you to invest in your child’s future at Camp U-Nah-Li-Ya.

The Goddard School 355 Intertech Drive, Brookfield, WI 262.781.1400 d The Goddard School offers the foundation to encourage your child’s lifelong love of learning. In our warm, loving atmosphere caring teachers support the healthy development of your child from six weeks to six years old. Our year round program offers your family the choice of either a half- or fullday schedule. Whether gently holding your infant, encouraging your toddler to share, or providing your preschooler with a wide range of enriching activities, our teachers understand your child’s needs. Goddard Developmental MAY 2012 | MILWAUKEE MHL | 21

SENIOR HEALTHY AND LIVING 22 | MHL MILWAUKEE | MAY 2012

Wireless Technology Brings Major Change to Hearing Care It’s here. A new generation of hearing technology.

› First 2.4 GHz wireless system to stream clear sound direct to your hearing devices from a TV, stereo or PC › World’s smallest instrument of its kind, so it’s practically invisible › Cutting-edge Spatial Directionality™ lets you catch every word, even in noisy situations

Today, wireless phones, computers and GPS devices are so much apart of our everyday lives, we take them for granted. And recently, researchers have been able to use new microprocessor technology to make hearing aids wireless. This gives hearing aid wearers the ability to more fully enjoy their media devices, such as television and computers. Carefree TV and phone use One of the newest hearing aids on the market utilizes cutting-edge technology to send a robust 2.4 GHz wireless signal that connects wearers to their cell phones, TVs and computers. Used in tandem with electronic linking devices, clear sound is “streamed” directly from the source to the hearing aids at distances up to 23 feet. Not only are all components remarkably userfriendly, theyensure hearing aid wearers no longer need to use awkward necklacestyle relay devices. Viewing TV with others can be one of the biggest sources of frustration for those with hearing loss and the other people in the room: the volume is always either too loud or too soft for someone. Now, this new technology enables individuals to listen “privately” through their hearing instruments at the volume they prefer. Others in the room can set the volume to a level that is comfortable for them. Phone calls – loud and clear. Another benefit of the new wireless technology gives hearing aid wearers hands-free use of their cell and home phones. By using a small Bluetooth™ accessory clipped to a shirt or automobile visor, clear conversation is transmitted from the phone to both ears. The cell phone can even remain in a pocket or handbag during calls. New in-the-ear models – out-of-sight, out-of-mind. Hearing aids have also become smaller in the last few years. There are tiny ones that sit behind the ear. And now, there are even smaller ones that can be hidden in the ear canal and the natural curves of the ear, called the “concha.” Besides being virtually invisible, this style provides other benefits as well. It takes advantage of the ear’s natural shape to improve sound quality. Plus, it is not bothered by eyeglasses, hats, hair brushing or everyday physical movement. And, wind noise, which can affect conventional hearing instruments, is not an issue. That makes it ideal for those who love the outdoors. Options for Noisy Environments Along with enabling direct-to-ear wireless communication, microprocessors help hearing aid wearers more easily understand speech in noisy environments. New techniques, such as band-splitting and specialized sound classification, facilitate more natural hearing in challenging environments. Now, instead of across-the-board amplification, patients can prioritize important sounds, such as speech, while retaining auditory awareness of less critical sounds. Patients can also choose to focus on speech more directly. For a FREE hearing screening and in-offi ce trial of Beltone True™, call Beltone at 414-375-0186 today.

MAY 2012 | MILWAUKEE MHL | 23

Spring into Action

LSVT® BIG and LOUD For People Living with Parkinson Disease by: Erica Vitek, M.O.T., O.T.R., B.C.B.-P.M.D. Aurora Sinai Medical Center Everyone knows how important exercise is in maintaining a healthy lifestyle, but for people who have Parkinson disease, it is even more important to exercise on a regular basis. There is research evidence to support the potential for regular exercise to reverse or dampen motor symptoms associated with Parkinson disease, increase dopamine utilization, and modify the course of the disease. The word regular may be the key word here. Also, it appears that the intensity level of the exercise affects the benefit to the person with Parkinson disease, starting as early in the disease process as possible. Lack of exercise and inactivity has actually been shown to enhance the symptoms associated with PD. LSVT® (Lee Silverman Voice Treatment) has developed an exercise protocol for working toward loud voice and big movements. LSVT LOUD was the initial protocol that brought about excellent results in voice improvements for people living with Parkinson disease. LSVT BIG, developed to mirror the principles and successes of the LOUD therapy, provides an intensive level of treatment and teaches the person with PD to self-monitor bigger movements and use high physical and mental effort. The LSVT BIG treatment is completed over four weeks, with four therapy sessions per week. All of the exercises were developed to address the typical issues that affect the person with Parkinson disease such as bradykinesia, rigidity, flexibility, posture, and balance. The main focus is amplitude (size of movement) and using the entire body in a movement sequence. The target goal is to maintain and carry over those big movements into everyday living situations. The fundamental principles include use of big movements with big effort, intensive practice with a home program, one-on-one therapist guidance and modeling for optimal performance, increasing levels of complexity, and standardized measurements of success. In Parkinson disease, the internal cue for self-monitoring loudness and bigness of movement is disrupted. There is a loss of “automatic pilot,” in which tasks that formerly could be completed without thinking about them now require an exceptional amount of concentration and attention to perform them efficiently and safely. You may have the perception that you are walking with normal-sized steps or speaking with a loud voice, but you may be told by others to “lift you feet up and don’t drag them” or “take a bigger step” or “talk louder” or “repeat that.” With LSVT BIG, we work to bypass the “automatic pilot” by using techniques of conscious thought to retrain the body to move bigger. At first, this may require a large amount of effort; however, it has been shown that, over time, the person with PD perceives that it takes a lesser level of effort to produce the same big movement. There is evidence that these exercises may be creating a new communication pathway in the brain. The “use it or lose it” principle appears to be true, especially in the case of Parkinson disease. Exercise is a significant conservative treatment technique that has been shown to decrease the severity of the symptoms and may even slow the progression of the disease. LSVT BIG has been developed to address the specific problems encountered when living with Parkinson disease. To find a clinician near you, visit www.lsvtglobal.com. The Aurora Rehabilitation Center at Aurora Sinai Medical Center in Milwaukee offers a program incorporating the BIG and LOUD programs along with the Wii balance and gaming system for a comprehensive approach to improving Parkinson disease; for more information call them at 414-219-5241. 24 | MHL MILWAUKEE | MAY 2012

Peace of Mind Services Title 19 & Pre- Arrangements Simple Cremation $595.00 (Excluding Cremation Permit & Fee)

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SERVING ALL OF WISCONSIN

Healthy Aging Tips

HOW TO FEEL YOUNG AND LIVE LIFE TO THE FULLEST As we grow older, we experience an increasing number of major life changes, including retirement, the loss of loved ones, and the physical changes of aging. How we handle these changes, as well as regular day-to-day stresses, is the key to aging well. Healthy aging is about much more than staying physically healthy—it’s about maintaining your sense of purpose and your zest for life. While the specific ingredients of healthy aging are different for everyone, the common factors are good mental health and the ability to manage stress. Knowing the basic formula for healthy aging will help you live with meaning and joy throughout your senior years. Finding and following your formula for healthy aging Coping with change is difficult, no matter how old you are. The particular challenge for older adults is the sheer number of changes and transitions—including the loss of friends, family, your career, your health, and even your independence. It’s natural to feel those losses. But if that sense of loss is balanced with positive ingredients, you have a formula for aging well. Healthy aging means continually reinventing yourself, finding new things you enjoy, learning to adapt to change, staying physically and socially active, and feeling connected to your community and loved ones. Unfortunately, for many, aging brings anxiety and fear instead. How will I take care of myself? What if I lose my spouse? What is going to happen to my mind? However, many of these fears stem from myths about aging that are exaggerated or simply untrue. The truth is that you are stronger and more resilient than you may think. Myths About Healthy Aging MYTH: Old age means poor health and disability. Fact: There are some diseases that are more common in older adults. However, getting old does not automatically mean poor health or that you will be confined to a walker or wheelchair. Plenty of older adults enjoy vigorous health. Preventive measures like healthy eating, exercising and managing stress can help reduce the risk of chronic disease and fall risk later in life. MYTH: Memory loss is an inevitable part of aging. AGING >> see page 33

MAY 2012 | MILWAUKEE MHL | 25

Pre-op Fasting: HOW LONG IS LONG ENOUGH?

Johns Hopkins Health After 50 If you’ve ever undergone surgery, you probably received the traditional pre-op order: Don’t eat or drink anything after midnight prior to the day of surgery. Most experts agree that the length of the recommended fast is needlessly long. Fasting guidelines have been relaxed in recent years, but it’s not uncommon for patients to be given the traditional after-midnight order. While it’s always best to follow your doctor’s advice, it’s perfectly reasonable to ask about relaxing the fasting requirements—especially if you’re scheduled for an afternoon procedure. In that case, you might be asked to go without food for more than 12 hours! Doctors and anesthesiologists are often willing to accommodate your wishes. The after-midnight order has been the norm for decades. It’s a precautionary measure to prevent pulmonary aspiration, which occurs when stomach contents

final 1/2 pg bridgeway healthwise ad_Layout 1 3/23/12 11:18 AM Page 1

enter the lungs, potentially blocking airflow and putting patients at risk for serious infections like pneumonia. However, modern anesthesia techniques make pulmonary aspiration much less likely. And when it does happen, it almost never results in long-term complications or death. What’s more, research has demonstrated that the stomach empties much faster than previously believed, and a long fasting period probably won’t reduce aspiration any better than a short fast. A long fast may add to discomfort during recovery. Fasting can lead to headaches, nausea, dizziness and dehydration. Dehydration can be serious and makes it difficult for nurses to draw blood for necessary tests. In its preoperative fasting guidelines, the American Society of Anesthesiologists says it’s safe for healthy people of all ages who undergo elective surgery to consume: • Clear liquids, including water, clear tea, black coffee, carbonated beverages and fruit juice without pulp, up to two hours before surgery • Very light meals, like toast and tea with milk, up to six hours before surgery • Heavy meals, including fried or fatty foods and meat, up to eight hours before surgery Tailored instructions Despite these guidelines, don’t be surprised if you schedule an elective procedure and are given after-midnight instructions. Many surgeons and hospitals continue to recommend the traditional after-midnight order on the assumption that it’s easier to give everyone the same instructions. Therefore, patients don’t need to count down the hours before surgery when making decisions about what to eat or drink, and healthcare professionals don’t need to sort out which patients should have different fasting times. Some patients do need to follow the after-midnight rule. These include people who have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and people with gastric paresis (paralysis of the stomach that can occur in people who have diabetes). These individuals have an increased risk of vomiting and aspiration during surgery and should be instructed to fast for a longer period—as should people undergoing gastric or intestinal surgeries. A blanket after-midnight order protects people who might have undiagnosed GERD or diabetes. Reprinted permission of the Johns Hopkins Medical Letter Health After 50, copyright MedLetter Associates, 2012. To order a one-year subscription, call 386447-6313.

Bridge Way: Transitional Care at Clement Manor “Your bridge between hospital and home”

hether your stay at a hospital is planned or unplanned, we can be your bridge between hospital and home. Our goal is to get you well so you can get back to life! � Short-term comprehensive, customized care � Nationally recognized for providing quality service � Expanded insurance contracts � Private rooms available Sponsored by the School Sisters of St. Francis

Call our Admissions Coordinator today at 414.546.7322 for more information and to schedule a tour. 3939 S. 92nd St. • Greenfield, WI 53228 • 414.321.1800 • clementmanor.com 26 | MHL MILWAUKEE | MAY 2012

PEOPLE ARE WILD ABOUT ONLINE

Retirement

By Karyl Richson Social Security Public Affairs Specialist in Milwaukee, WI You’ve heard what we at Social Security have to say about retiring online – that it’s fast, easy and secure. Now see what some of our recent applicants have written about applying for Social Security benefits online. “I am beyond thrilled about the online filing process,” said Priah from Ohio. “The retirement application was easy to start. I did not feel rushed at all.” Tom from Arizona had this to say: “I recently applied for Social Security benefits online, which was painless and took about 20 minutes. I followed that up with a car wash, which took longer. How about that? A federal benefit that took less time to apply for than getting a car wash.” Melanie from Indiana, said, “I helped my husband apply for retirement benefits online and it couldn’t have been easier.” Sven from Minneapolis said, “I filed for my retirement benefits online and it worked great.” “I am amazed at the speed and efficiency,” said Joe from California. “My wife turns 62 in September and will follow me in applying online.” Eileen from Pennsylvania said, “It took twenty minutes. I loved that after each page it would tell me if I had made a mistake. It was very easy to use.” Vicki from Ohio said, “It’s a no-brainer. Applying online was so easy, the application was very user-friendly. I liked it.” And Bob from California had this to say: “Signing up for my Social Security on line was a snap!” So don’t just take our word for it. Listen to what others are saying all over the country. Join the more than one million people who have taken advantage of the most convenient way to apply for retirement benefits — online. It sure beats waiting in line. Visit www.socialsecurity.gov to learn more, or go directly to www. socialsecurity.gov/retire2 to get started with your retirement.

MAY 2012 | MILWAUKEE MHL | 27

The Senior Community Living providing Retirement Community • • • •

HEALTHIER LIVING

Independent Apartments Supportive Care Assisted Living Memory Care

Sorting out senior living options? We Can Help

 N168 W22022 Main Street Jackson, WI 53037

    

www.jacksoncrossings.com (262) 993-2838

Hwy 45 North to Hwy 60 East Exit

“You’ll be safe!” “No more work, No chores!”, “No more lawn mowing or shoveling snow!” ”You’ll have help when you need it!” If these phrases sound familiar you are probably over 50. They are used by many families in an effort to convince an older family member to move into Senior Housing. Are these really good arguments for moving? Leaving the home you’ve had for many years? No! They are not the best reason for moving! No wonder so many older adults tune out this discussion. It does sound like they are being turned out to “pasture’. It sounds like the family doesn’t want to help anymore. Mom and Dad are insulted that you think they are not safe or able to maintain their home. They are angry that you don’t want to have to check on them or help with outdoor chores, They feel that their children don’t want to be bothered any more. On top of being insulted and angry, they are afraid. Afraid of the unkown; afraid of losing control of their life and the decisions that go with daily living. The real reason older people should move is to stay healthy in body and mind. The healthier one is, the better able you are to take control of your life. The past 20 years there have been hundreds of research studies all reaching the same conclusion- In order to stay healthy, physically and mentally, people must not live alone . As you age, you experience limitations on driving and moving your body due to aches and pains. People have retired from jobs and as a result see more limitations on the number of people and mental challenges they encounter. Gradually, as time goes on, the relationships with people and new activities decreases. If you want to stay healthy and able to control your life, then it is simple! Move to a community where you see and talk to people every day. Where new people come and go. Where there are tours, trips, games and lessons. Get your brain NO ONE CAN OFFER BETTER PEDORTHIC CARE THAN NPS! working and your body moving. In WisQUALITY...INNOVATION...EXPERIENCE... consin, this means moving to a building of apartments or condominiums so even FOR MORE THAN 40 YEARS, NPS HAS BEEN DEDICATED TO PROVIDING THE HIGHEST in bad weather you won’t be alone - a QUALITY PRESCRIPTION FOOTWEAR FOR YOU AND YOUR PATIENTS. prisoner in your home. In a 24 hour day , 7 days a week, there Chronic Disease—Diabetes Chronic Disease—Arthritis ERVICES NCLUDE is still plenty of time and need for family Congenital Conditions Muscular Sclerosis to stop by for visits and help. Time for Cerebral Palsey Sports Injuries COMFORT SHOE them to participate in your life. But, even Rehabilitation Overuse if family visits 1-2 hours every day, that A THLETIC FOOTWEAR Work Injury Stroke leaves 22 hours of time alone. It is not FOOT ORTHOTICS Trauma Aging enough to keep you healthy. BRACES So be fearless! Be healthy physically and mentally by moving to a community where you talk to a variety of people every day. Where you can take trips to shop, learn and laugh. Be in control of your life because you are as healthy as you possibly can be. Jackson Crossings is one such community that offers independent apartments NATIONAL PEDORTHIC SERVICES, INC. for seniors who want to stay active and MILWAUKEE AREA - 2745 W. LAYTON AVE. STE. 103, MILWAUKEE WI 53221 TEL: (414)282-8888 involved. Check out Jackson Crossings BROOKFIELD - 2475 N. 124TH STREET, BROOKFIELD WI 53005 TEL: (262)754-2440 Retirement Community at www.jacksonMADISON - 1825 S. PARK STREET, MADISON WI 53713 TEL: (608)225-3500 crossings.com or call (262) 993-2838 to schedule a visit. FOND DU LAC - 885 WESTERN AVE, FOND DU LAC WI 54935 TEL: (920)907-1060

28 | MHL MILWAUKEE | MAY 2012

LESS TIME INSIDE MEANS MORE TIME

e d i s t Ou

By Karyl Richson Social Security Public Affairs Specialist in Milwaukee, WI The sun is out and there are a thousand and one things you could be doing outside. The last thing you want to do is sit in traffic on your way to the Social Security office, or to wait in line once you get there. From your doorstep to the local office and back again, you could spend a lot of extra time taking care of your Social Security business. Or, you could choose to visit our online office at www.socialsecurity.gov and complete your Social Security business in a matter of minutes with no commute whatsoever. There are so many things you can do at our online office. For example, you can apply online for retirement benefits. Our website makes it simple, allowing you to apply for retirement benefits in as little as 15 minutes. In most cases, once you fill out the application, you’re done. There are no forms to sign and no documents to submit. The direct link to applying for benefits online is www.socialsecurity.gov/applyonline. Not ready to retire yet, or not sure? We have online resources that can help you plan ahead or make your decision. Our Retirement Estimator will allow you to enter different scenarios to come up with the retirement plan best for you. You can find it at www.socialsecurity.gov/estimator. Perhaps you need to file an application for disability benefits. A Disability Starter Kit explains the documentation and information you’ll be required to provide on the application, and includes checklists and worksheets to help take the mystery out of applying. You can find the Disability Starter Kit at www.socialsecurity.gov/disability on the left-hand side of the page. You can apply online for Medicare, if you’re within four months of your 65th birthday. Most people, even those who don’t plan to start getting retirement benefits right away, need to apply for Medicare coverage at age 65. The application takes as little as 10 minutes, from start to finish. Learn more at www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs/10530.html. There are other things you can do online, such as apply for a replacement Medicare card, and request an SSA-1099 for tax purposes. You can learn about these and other online services at www.socialsecurity.gov/onlineservices. So if you’d like to soak up some sun this summer, we suggest you take your Social Security business online. You may even be able to take your laptop outside and conduct your business in the great outdoors. See for yourself at www.socialsecurity.gov.

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MAY 2012 | MILWAUKEE MHL | 29

Understanding Medicare: KNOW YOUR RISKS. KNOW YOUR OPTIONS.

Planning a Secure Retirement is not Simple- but it is important The first step in planning a secure retirement is understanding the risks you face in retirement. One of the most complicated and confusing issues youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll face as you plan for retirement is understanding what Medicare does and does not cover. Failure to protect against expenses that are not cover by Medicare can have a dramatic impact on your financial security. An insurance service organization specializes in helping you understand your needs for life and health insurance in retirement. This article will help you understand what Medicare covers and does not cover. This article, together with an assessment of your individual needs, will help you be informed, be smart, and be secure. Understanding the Medicare Insurance Program While Medicare helps cover healthcare costs, It doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t cover all medical expenses or the cost of most long-term care. The program has four basic parts: PART A Medicare Part A (Hospital Insurance) Part A help pay for inpatient hospital care, and other services. PART B Medicare Part B (Medical Insurance) Part B helps pay for doctorsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; fee, outpatient hospital visits and other medical services and supplies not covered by Part A. PART C Medicare Part C (Private Medicare Advantage) Part C allow you to choose to receive all of your healthcare services through a private organization.. (You must have both Parts A and B to enroll in C.) PART D Medicare Part D (Prescription Drug Insurance) Part D helps pay for some of the cost of medications that help your healthcare professionals prescribe.

Understanding Supplemental Health Insurance Because Medicare does not cover all your medical costs, you may decide to obtain additional protection through supplemental health insurance policies. These policies are sold by private companies and are not part of Medicare. Having the right insurance protection in place can provide the peace of mind and protect you from high out-of pocket medical expenses. Having Medicare alone can expose you to many thousands of dollars in out-of- pocket expenses. You may want to consider insurance coverage for some or all of the flowing expenses: The deductibles , coinsurance and exclusions in Medicare coverage The high cost of prescription medications The costs of skilled, nursing, assisted living, nursing home and home health care The cost of final expense The additional cost that go alone with critical illnesses like the cost of travel and lodging when receiving care way from home. Medicare Does Not Eliminate Your Financial Responsibilities The number-one misperception most people have about Medicare is that it covers all of your medial expenses. It does not. In many cases you could be responsible for thousands of dollars of care. Suffering from Medicare Overload Yet? Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t worry, you are not alone. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s easy to become overwhelmed by complexity of Medicare. Your Insurance representative, however, is a life and health insurance specialist focused on retirement planning and can help you sort through Medicare, your options and the other insurance products that can protect you financial security. Our goal is simple, we want you to be informed, be smart and be secure in that decisions you make about your financial security in retirement. For more information contact American Republic Insurance at (262) 523-1440 and visit www.americanrepublic.com.

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Viral videos often make us smile at laughing baby or well up at a soldier surprising his family. The latest video that has been popping up in emails and on Facebook might be a little of both. The video introduces us to Henry, an elderly man in a nursing home who is unresponsive. A therapist turns an iPod to music from his generation and he comes alive. He begins singing and swaying to the music. His reaction to hearing his favorite music is remarkable but not surprising. Countless studies have demonstrated the clinical effectiveness of music therapy in improving cognitive and physical function in older adults, particularly those affected by Alzheimer’s disease and other dementia-related conditions. What is it about music that has such a powerful effect? Music is processed in many areas of the brain and stimulates brain function throughout. The rhythm of music also helps organize and motivate the brain. “Music captures our attention, wakes us up, and allows us to interact with our environment,” says Bonnie Jean Barczak, Milwaukee Catholic Home Choir Director and Director of Music Therapy at The Conservatory of Music. Hearing our favorite song can put us in a better mood instantly but music therapy involves more than simply playing someone’s favorite song. “In order for music therapy to be effective, you have to put in the work,” says Barczak. “Preference of music is huge. People can have a positive or negative association to certain music and it is up to us to get to know that person first.” Besides focusing on the individual’s preference, music therapists have to plan for their abilities as well. “Some patients may not have the ability to tell you that the music is too loud or be able to take the ear buds out of their ears,” says Barczak. Because music therapists must be able to plan for and respond to patients with many different kinds of conditions, it is important that they are properly trained. Many schools offer specific bachelor and advanced degrees in music therapy. Music is a very popular and effective form of therapy not only for older adults. Music Therapy has also been a popular therapy for patients with Autism, mental health disorders, and brain injuries. News reports highlighted therapy for brain injuries when they featured Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords and how music therapy was being successfully used in her recovery after being shot in the head. As studies have validated the effectiveness of music therapy, its impact is being recognized more and more. In 2011, Nevada and North Dakota passed legislation creating music therapy licensures. Since then, more states are taking up similar bills. View the video at: http://youtu.be/fyZQf0p73QM

AGING << see page 25 Fact: You may eventually notice you don’t remember experiences as easily as in the past, and memories may take longer to retrieve. However, significant memory loss is not an inevitable result of aging. Brain training and new learning can occur at any age. And there are many things you can do to keep your memory sharp. MYTH: You can’t teach an old dog new tricks. Fact: One of the more damaging myths of aging is that after a certain age, you just won’t be able to try anything new or contribute things anymore. Quite the contrary. Older adults are just as capable of learning new things, thriving in new environments, and sharing their wisdom and experience with many generations. If you believe in yourself and have confidence in yourself, you are setting up a positive environment for change no matter what your age. Healthy aging: Tips for coping with change As you age, there will be periods of both joy and stress. It’s important to build your resilience and find healthy ways to cope with challenges. This ability will help you make the most of the good times and keep your perspective when times are tough. Focus on the things you’re grateful for. The longer you live, the more you lose. But as you lose people and things, life becomes even more precious. When you stop taking things for granted, you appreciate and enjoy what you have even more. Acknowledge and express your feelings. You may have a hard time showing strong emotions, perhaps feeling that such a display is inappropriate and weak. But burying your feelings can lead to anger, resentment, and depression. Don’t deny what you’re going through. Find healthy ways to process your feelings, perhaps by talking with a close friend or writing in a journal. Accept the things you can’t change. Many things in life are beyond our control. Rather than stressing out over them, focus on the things you can control such as the way you choose to react to problems. Face your limitations with dignity and a healthy dose of humor. Look for the silver lining. As the saying goes, “What doesn’t kill us makes us stronger.” When facing major challenges, try to look at them as opportunities for personal growth. If your own poor choices contributed to a stressful situation, reflect on them and learn from your mistakes. Take daily action to deal with life’s challenges. When challenges seem too big to handle, sweeping them under the carpet often appears easier. But ignoring the problem doesn’t make it go away; it allows both the problem and your anxiety to build. Instead, take things one small step at a time. Even a small step can go a long way to boosting your confidence and reminding you that you are not powerless. For more information please visit helpguide.org.

Wanted: a fourth at our bridge game. Must enjoy the good life. Be interested in a variety of topics. Love discussing current events. Like \W TQ^M IUWVO ÅVM IZ\ QV I JMI]\QN]T country setting. Can’t pass up a great deal, like this one: $1995* for a 1 BR apartment, with… C 24-hour reception services C All utilities, Cable TV C Life Alert pendant C Small pets welcome C Housekeeping & laundry services C Transportation C Private dining or party room C Fitness room C Concierge service C Personalized service plans available C Underground parking available C Café, beauty salon, barbershop, and massage therapist also located on site No endowment or entrance fees ever in our Continuum of Care Community. * 1 BR apts. start at $1995; other models and prices also available.

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May is Better Speech & Hearing Month! Communication through speaking and hearing is so much a part of our lives; we take for granted what a wonderful tool it is…until it’s taken away from us. As we get older, we may experience injuries or illnesses that affect the way we speak, hear and communicate effectively with others. For many, this can be extremely devastating and frustrating. However, because of Speech Language Pathologists, treatment and coping is available. Speech Language Pathologists are professionals who are educated to assess speech and language development and to treat language and speech disorders. They can also help with swallowing disorders. How does this affect you? Many people feel that Speech Pathologists are only found treating language problems in the schools. Although correct, Speech Pathologists are the key to giving you back your sense of self by giving you the ability to express yourself through the diverse methods of communication. If you or someone you know has suffered a stroke, or has Dysphagia (difficulty swallowing), you know how important it is to be able to eat, or speak even after the illness is diagnosed. Some other things that affect communication and swallowing are the following: Dementia: A cluster of symptoms related to memory loss and overall cognitive impairment that is progressive and irreversible. Dysarthria: After a stroke or brain injury, the muscles of the mouth, face and respiratory system may become weak; move slowly, or not at all. Huntington’s Disease: Communication, swallowing and cognitive problems Laryngeal Cancer: Cancer of the larynx resulting in swallowing difficulties. Stroke: The symptoms of causes of stroke, its effects related to communication Many individuals have to be re-trained on eating, speaking and communicating after a serious injury or illness. This is why Speech Language Pathologists play such an important role in our lives at all ages. May is Better Speech and Hearing month! Celebrate by thanking your Speech Therapist and finding out what you can do to enhance your communication skills for a better quality of life.

34 | MHL MILWAUKEE | MAY 2012

The View from the Educator’s Window: Looking at Our Elder Parents and Their Adult Children Presented by Alan S. Wolkenstein, MSW, LCSW May 9, 2 pm The Sandwich Generation: Seeking the best ways for you to be with and care for your parents who are becoming more dependent on you and your children who are becoming more independent.

Concerned About Money For Retirement? A SOLID SAVINGS PLAN CAN EASE YOUR WORRIES By Karyl Richson Social Security Public Affairs Specialist in Milwaukee, WI Do you sometimes wonder whether you’ll be able to afford retirement? It’s a common concern among workers, especially members of the baby-boom generation. The oldest of the boomers will be 62 in just a few months — in January 2008. But even the most anxious of this group should be able to relieve at least some concerns about retirement income by understanding just how much money is needed, and then planning a way to reach that goal. Most financial advisors say that you will need at least 70 to 80 percent of your pre-retirement income to enjoy a comfortable retirement. Other advisors say that you may need an even higher percentage of pre-retirement income. So where will it come from? The truth is that today Social Security is the largest source of income for most older Americans. For the average wage-earner, Social Security will replace about 40 percent of pre-retirement earnings. But Social Security was never intended to be your only source of income when you retire, and to reach the 70-80 percent replacement income goal you also will need other savings, investments or pension income, or part-time work. As Michael J. Astrue, Commissioner of Social Security, has noted, “Saving and investing wisely are important not only for you and your family, but for the entire country. If you want to learn more about how and why to save, you should visit www. mymoney.gov, a federal government website dedicated to teaching all Americans the basics of financial management.” The topics discussed at this website include paying for an education, starting a small business and, of course, retirement planning. The retirement planning link takes you to more than a dozen other links with valuable financial information. There is, for example, “A Special Guide for Seniors and Families” from the FDIC; “Top 10 Ways To Prepare For Retirement” from the Department of Labor; “Tax Information for Retirement Plan Participants” from the IRS; and several links to Social Security sites, including Social Security retirement benefit calculators, special guides for women and retirement planners. So if you are concerned about being able to afford retirement, just remember that knowledge is power. Get valuable information from Social Security at www.socialsecurity.gov, or from the federal website for financial literacy at www.mymoney.gov.

May 23, 2 pm How to Best Assess Quality of Life as a Guide in Determining the Best Path You Can Choose: In Caring for Yourself, Your Family, and Your Parent(s). June 6, 2 pm Why Being “In the Moment” Guarantees Our Greatest Satisfaction in Conversations with Those We Care About the Most: Then Tell Me Why it is So Difficult to Attain and Maintain. Alan S. Wolkenstein is Senior Educator and Consultant for Wolkenstein and Associates, LLC, and Clinical Professor of Family Medicine for the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health. He is a family therapist who counsels the elderly and people struggling to live with and through serious illnesses. Alan has over thirty years of experience in family therapy, and teaching, researching and educating physicians in family medicine and primary care.

10995 N. Market St., Mequon, WI 53092 262-478-1506 LLadin@JewishSeniorLiving.org SarahChudnow.org Like us on Facebook Follow us on Twitter @sarahshouse

MAY 2012 | MILWAUKEE MHL | 35

PICKING A COMMUNITY

For The Active Senior Sprring is the season that we can expect to be digging into our pockets to spend on outside cost. Senior communities are designed to maximize the time you spend not taking care of your home. Seniors might become tired of the to do lists, and making choices on what comes next list. Senior communities can help make a active older adult’s lifestyle become more relaxed. It’s time to retire not only from your job but work at home. When looking to move into a senior community, most seniors are looking to make new friends, and relish in new experiences. The developers design a 55 plus or 62 plus communities to help residence achieve what they are looking for. Senior communities can offer a number of social actives that can enrich a senior’s lifestyle. When looking into making these decisions on where to move to, you should make a must have list, and would like list. Researching senior communities is helpful to help you realize what your needs are and even bring to your attention activities and amenities that you might have forgotten about. You might want to look over this list to help you consider your options. A club house or Social area for recreation opportunities Tennis, Golf, or other sports you might be interested in A weight room Craft rooms Library Beauty shops Laundry pick-up or facilities Actives Calendar and Director Lessons for Musical Instruments Maintenance of grounds and landscaping Security and emergency response systems Bus lines and near by shopping centers Hopefully this will help you get a good start on deciding what senior community is right for you. Because you are looking for value compare the cost and the amenities each community has to offer. You can start enrich your lifestyle and enjoy retirement living. What are you waiting for!

36 | MHL MILWAUKEE | MAY 2012

HELP MOM SAVE $4,000 A YEAR By Karyl Richson Social Security Public Affairs Specialist in Milwaukee, WI Given the current economic climate, buying a nice gift for Motherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day may be more difficult than in years past. But people across the nation are discovering that the best gifts are often free. This Motherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day, you can show Mom how to save an estimated $4,000 a year on her Medicare prescription drug costs. Hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s how. If your mother is covered by Medicare and has limited income and resources, she may be eligible for Extra Help â&#x20AC;&#x201D; available through Social Security â&#x20AC;&#x201D; to pay part of her monthly premiums, annual deductibles, and prescription co-payments. The Extra Help is estimated to be worth about $4,000 per year. To figure out whether your mother is eligible, Social Security needs to know her income and the value of her savings, investments and real estate (other than the home she lives in). To qualify for the extra help, she must be receiving Medicare and have: Income limited to $16,335 for an individual or $22,065 for a married couple living together. Even if her annual income is higher, she still may be able to get some help with monthly premiums, annual deductibles, and prescription co-payments. Some examples where income may be higher include if she and, if married, her husband: â&#x20AC;&#x201D;Support other family members who live with them; â&#x20AC;&#x201D;Have earnings from work; or â&#x20AC;&#x201D;Live in Alaska or Hawaii. Resources limited to $13,070 for an individual or $26,120 for a married couple living together. Resources include such things as bank accounts, stocks, and bonds. We do not count her house or car as resources. Social Security has an easy-to-use online application that you can help complete for your mom. You can find it at www.socialsecurity.gov/prescriptionhelp. To apply by phone or have an application mailed to you, call Social Security at 1-800-7721213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778) and ask for the Application for Help with Medicare Prescription Drug Plan Costs (SSA-1020). Or go to the nearest Social Security office. To learn more about the Medicare prescription drug plans and special enrollment periods, visit www.medicare.gov or call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227; TTY 1-877-486-2048). Mom will be grateful when you give her a useful gift this year: help her save an estimated $4,000 a year on Medicare prescription drugs. It wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t cost you anything more than a little bit of quality time with her â&#x20AC;&#x201D; something you and Mom both want anyway. These rules apply to Dad as well, so plan ahead for your Fatherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day gift too.

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GARDEN >> see page 8 Perhaps the best way to defend against insects is to make your garden enticing to insect predators, such as ladybugs, birds, frogs, and lizards. You can do this by keeping a water source nearby or by growing plants that attract insects who feed on nectar. Other ideas are sticky traps, barriers, and plant collars. There are some household items that prevent against insects too, like insecticidal soaps, garlic, and hot pepper. Avoiding Plant Disease with Organic Gardens To avoid plant disease in organic gardening, choose disease resistant plants and plant them in their prime conditions. Many diseases will spread because of constant moisture and bad air circulation, so the site of your garden and the way it is watered can help ensure against diseases. Fighting Weeds in Your Organic Garden Weeds can be an annoying and frustrating part of organic gardening. Organic mulch can act as a weed barrier, but for even better protection put a layer of newspaper, construction paper, or cardboard under the mulch. Corn meal gluten will slow the growth of weeds if spread early in the season before planting, as does solarization. There’s also the old-fashioned art of hoeing and hand pulling that always works. Your best bet in weed prevention is persistence. Mulch well and pull and hoe what you can; after a few seasons you can beat the weeds for good. Organic gardening is an excellent way to assure that your plants will be free and clear of all pesticides and, if taken care of properly, will be as healthy as possible. Organic gardening may take a little more time and care than regular gardening, but after gardeners get the hang of it and figure out all the quirks of their garden, it is definitely worth the extra time. JOIN US FOR OUR ‘ORGANIC GARDENING WITH DR. EARTH’ EVENT ON WEDNESDAY, MAY 16TH FROM 6:30PM – 7:30 PM. THIS EVENT IS FREE BUT THERE ARE LIMITED SPOTS AVAILABLE! CALL US TODAY TO SECURE A SPOT – (414) 282-4220

trogen burden on your body. In doing so, you will achieve better hormone balance and protect yourself from hormone responsive cancers such as breast cancer. 1. Eat a hormone balancing diet that includes adequate amounts of protein, lots of vegetables (especially cruciferous), 2-3 pieces of fruit per day, and moderate amounts of healthy fats such as nuts, seeds and olive oil. 2. Get adequate amounts of fiber. Fiber is crucial for regulating daily bowl movements. Since estrogen is excreted through the stool, ensuring proper elimination is key – 2 tbsp of freshly ground flax seeds per day is a great for this. 3. Maintain an optimal weight and exercise regularly. 4. Reduce or avoid alcohol consumption. Alcohol interferes with your liver function, and when this happens it will not be able to effectively clear your body of the excess estrogen. It also increases your likelihood of gaining weight. 5. Add soy to your diet in the form of edamame, miso, tofu and tempe. Soy can block the effects of the estrogen in your body. For example, if you have too much estrogen in your body, soy actually blocks estrogen’s effect on the cells. 6. Choose environmentally safe cleaning and self-care products. www.ewg. org is a great resource for this. Chemicals that are known to disrupt the hormone system and that mimic estrogen in the body are worth avoiding as much as possible. Look out for parabens (cosmetics), phthalates (plastics), bisphenol-A (plastics, metal cans), formaldehyde (furniture), cadium (cigarettes), and pesticides and herbicides. 7. And last but not least, take steps to decrease stress in your life. This is always easier said than done, but learning how to relax and have some fun is crucial for well-being. See a Practitioner If you suspect your health condition may be due to estrogen dominance, consider seeing a health practitioner that utilizes natural therapies. Much benefit can be gained from individualized supplement recommendations and treatment with natural therapies. Dr. Joanne Aponte is a Naturopathic Doctor at the Jensen Health and Energy Center in Elm Grove, WI. She has a general family practice that focuses on digestive issues, women’s health issues and wellness. Visit her website at www.joanneponte. com. To learn more about naturopathic medicine visit www.naturopathic.org.

Assisted Living and Memory Care Communities Walk through the doors of one of our Senior Living Communities and you will immediately sense the home-like and friendly atmosphere. Compassionate staff has been specially selected and carefully trained to serve with an open heart and friendly smile. Our Memory Care Neighborhoods offer specialized care for the unique needs of residents with Alzheimer’s or related dementias.

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VISION << from page 9 understand the benefits and risks of refractive surgery and have realistic expectations, including understanding the fact that there is the chance that they may still need to wear glasses for reading or to fine-tune their vision in certain circumstances, like playing golf or driving.” Prospective LVC patients must be at least 21 years of age with a prescription that has not significantly changed for at least one year and have a healthy cornea with no major vision-related conditions. In addition to being unable or dissatisfied with wearing glasses, contact lenses or bifocals, candidates must fall within certain surgical parameters for treatment. “Patients appreciate that, just as shown on ‘20/20’ and other news programs, we perform a battery of screening tests, including pupil measurement and computerized corneal mapping,” says Dr. David Scheidt, an optometrist who performs extensive pre-operative examinations. “We want to feel just as comfortable as you about going ahead with surgery. It takes healthy qualified eyes and realistic expectations to make a satisfied patient.” “If a person meets these criteria, and chooses to proceed, we perform the procedure on an out-patient basis at our own surgery center,” explains Eye Care Specialists co-founder Dr. Norman Cohen. “With LASIK and PRK, eyedrops are all that are needed for anesthesia. And, since these procedures take only minutes to perform, patients can literally walk in our door and an hour or so later head back out with a ‘new outlook’ on life.” Freedman reports, “Our outcomes match studies which have shown that 95+% of patients achieve 20/40 or better vision (the legal limit for driving without glasses). Part of the reason is because we do a thorough job of screening patients for candidacy and performing comprehensive testing to plan a personalized laser vision correction procedure completely individualized for each patient using the Bausch & Lomb Zyoptix™ software, scanning and laser system.” Despite these precautions, head of Ophthalmology at Aurora Sinai Medical Center and private practitioner Dr. Brett Rhode wants prospective patients to realize, “Although millions of refractive surgeries have been performed worldwide and serious or long-term complications (like infection) have been extremely rare, some side effects may occasionally occur, including light sensitivity, glare, fluctuating vision, regression, overcorrection, loss of sharpness, and contact lens intolerance.” An ophthalmologist who treats patients at three locations in the Milwaukee area, Dr. Daniel Ferguson offers advice to people considering any type of eye surgery, “Realistic expectations are crucial to positive results. No doctor can or should guarantee perfect eyesight. In fact, refractive surgery may not result in the same crispness of vision as what you see with your glasses or contact lenses. As a result, some patients choose to have a new lighter glasses prescription for occasionally fine-tuning their distance and/or night vision. Also, patients are still susceptible to normal aging changes of the eye and most will eventually need reading glasses sometime after age 40.” A secondary procedure, called an “enhancement,” may be necessary for some patients to achieve the full effect of surgery and maximize their visual improvement. Final results are dependent upon many factors, including individual healing responses and the initial degree of nearsightedness. The best measure of results is the improvement in day-to-day functioning that each patient experiences on his or her own personal level. Freedman notes, “The desire to see better without corrective lenses is universal. We’ve performed surgery on patients from all walks of life—pilots, accountants, radio personalities, Olympic gold medalist skater Dan Jansen, engineers, dishwashers, working moms, florists and teachers. We’re especially proud of the fact that at least 20 fellow physicians have trusted us with their eyes, including optometrists, family practitioners and plastic surgeons.” It takes more than just desire, however, to proceed with refractive surgery. Trust and cost are major factors. When researching laser vision correction, keep in mind the importance of surgeon credentials, which type of laser is used, staff availability for counseling, etc. As for cost, the advertised price of LASIK and PRK can vary greatly depending on whether or not all exams, medications and follow-up care are listed up front. And, since refractive surgery is usually considered cosmetic and elective, it is typically not covered by insurance. As such, ask about credit card payment, financing and employee flex spending programs (fees are tax-deductible medical expenses). The physicians quoted in this article are partners at Eye Care Specialists, SC., one of Wisconsin’s leading ophthalmology practices. Since 1985, they have provided comprehensive medical, surgical and laser care for virtually every eye condition to more than 121,000 people at offices in on 102nd & National in West Allis, Mayfair Road in Wauwatosa, and 7th & Wisconsin in downtown Milwaukee. They have served as investigators in FDA clinical studies of laser vision correction and are listed in Milwaukee Magazine’s “Top Doctors.” Call 414-321-EYES (3937) and mention this article for a free copy of their educational booklet on laser vision correction or to schedule a free, no-obligation screening.

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