November 2015 Generations at Agritopia

VALLEY OF THE SUN

east valley area

Promoting Healthier Living in Your Community • Physical • Emotional

NOVEMBER 2015

FREE

HealthyCells

®

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M A G A Z I N E

• Nutritional

A Lifestyle of Possibilities

Learn How to Get Healthy Naturally Managing Diabetes During the Holidays The Time Has Come for Healthcare to Change

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letter from the owner

Why Do We Celebrate Thanksgiving?

D

oesn’t it sound a bit hypocritical with all that is going on in the world today? Mass shootings are becoming more frequent, an “it’s not my problem” attitude, and removing anything associated to religion from public places. Common courtesy is all but gone; just try to change lanes in rush hour traffic!

This past week, I had the opportunity to see and experience that good in people still exist. My daughter was hospitalized twice recently, and had surgery. The surgery went well, but she will need about a month to recuperate. She received so many calls wanting to know what she needs, and how they can help. Her friends, neighbors, and co-workers rallied around her; they took care of her daughter (including transportation to school), and have planned out her recovery time to assist her with meals and anything else she needs. It demonstrated the meaning of Thanksgiving in many ways.

Although we may not hear much about the good that goes on in the world, most of us are honest, hardworking, caring people that give when we can, and want to make a difference in the lives of others. Imagine what could be accomplished if the media was required to spend an equal amount of time on the good news as they do the bad news.

May you and your loved ones have a joyous day of thanks, giving, and making memories to last a lifetime.

Happy Thanksgiving

Monica Tegg/Owner, Healthy Cells Magazine®, East Valley Monica@healthycellsmagazine.com, www.healthycellsmagazine.com/phx, 480-204-3090, #healthycellsAZ, Facebook.com/healthycellsmagazine.phx

November 2015 — East Valley — ­ Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 3

NOVEMBER 5

Community News: Learn How to Get Healthy Naturally

6

Nutritional: Healthy Holiday Eating With Diabetes

This Month’s Cover Story:

2015 Volume 3, Issue 11

Generations at Agritopia A Lifestyle of Possibilities page 16 Cover and feature story photos by Jenn Sutton, Simply Sage Photography

8

Physical: What to Do If You Fall

10

Emotional: Change Your Pain

12

Geriatric Care: Caring Solutions for Aging Adults and Caregivers

13

Reconnecting: Holiday Hints for Alzheimer’s Caregivers and Families

14

Photofacial: The Most Amazing Laser Treatment You Should Be Getting!

19

Healthcare Rewards: The Time Has Come for Health Care to Change

20

Breast Cancer Awareness: Understanding Breast Health, Part 2

22

Sleep Disorders: Sleep Apnea = Oxygen Deprivation = Increased Cancer Risk

23

Health Literacy: Understanding Medical Lingo

24

Embrace Life: Make Time to Find the Roses

25

Quality Care: Who Is a Caregiver?

Healthy Cells Magazine® is intended to heighten awareness of health and fitness information and does not suggest diagnosis or treatment. This information is not a substitute for medical attention. See your health care professional for medical advice and treatment. The opinions, statements, and claims expressed by the columnists, advertisers, and contributors to Healthy Cells Magazine® are not necessarily those of the editors or publisher.

26

Medicare and Open Enrollment: Finding the Right Plan

Healthy Cells Magazine® is available FREE in high traffic locations throughout the East Valley, including medical facilities and other waiting rooms. Healthy Cells Magazine® welcomes contributions pertaining to healthier living in the East Valley area. Limelight Communications, Inc. assumes no responsibility for their publication or return. Solicitations for articles shall pertain to physical, emotional, and nutritional health only.

For advertising information, contact Monica Tegg, owner, Valley of the Sun Edition Cell: 480-204-3090 • Fax: 309-691-2187 PO Box 6233, Chandler, AZ 85246 monica@healthycellsmagazine.com Healthy Cells Magazine® is a division of: 1327 E. Kelly Ave., Peoria Heights, IL 61616 • Ph: 309-681-4418 • Fax: 309-691-2187 info@limelightlink.com Mission: The objective of Healthy Cells Magazine® is to promote a stronger health-conscious community by means of offering education and support through the cooperative efforts among esteemed health and fitness professionals in the East Valley.

community news

Learn How to Get Healthy Naturally

SCNM Community Discovery Day

J

oin us for a fun filled day of exploring and learning about the many modalities of naturopathic medicine on Saturday, November 14, 2015 at Southwest College Naturopathic Medicine’s Discovery Day. Learn how you can use naturopathic medicine to take care of yourself, and your family, naturally!

This FREE event will provide you with solutions to get healthy naturally, feel your best, and take control of your health! If you’re interested in learning more about naturopathic medicine and how it can benefit you, this is the event for you. Community Discovery Day will answer your questions about holistic healing and health, and how the human body, mind, and spirit are fully integrated aspects of a person’s overall being.

Raffle Prizes, goodie bags, free samples, and more.

Discovery Day Highlights Prospective students and community members interested in learning about naturopathic medicine and healthy living can find what they need at the SCNM Discovery Day. Community Education • Tour the SCNM Campus • Cooking demonstrations • Chair Yoga, Stretch, and Tone for All Levels

Featured Presentations With SCNM Naturopathic Doctors* • Pain and Healing — New Answers for the Pain Epidemic • Women’s Medicine — Creating Health, Balance, and Well-being • Raising Healthy Children — Top 5 Tips From a Naturopathic Doctor

Save the Date

SCNM Community Discovery Day Have Fun Exploring The Healing Power Of Nature: • A unique, fully-stocked teaching kitchen • Nourish Café • Smoothie samples, food demos • Yoga and exercise studios • A natural medicinary

Saturday, November 14, 2015 9 a.m. – 3:30 p.m Registration begins at 8 a.m.

Register at www.scnm.edu/DISCOVERSCNM

*Presentation topics subject to change, check website for updates and additional presentations.

Medical Center • IM injections include B-12 and B complex • Nutrient IV of multivitamins • Food and allergy testing • Natural Medicinary discounts Nourish Cafe • Providing breakfast and lunch.

The Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine trains future physicians to focus on prevention, wellness, and lifestyle changes, which address the root cause of the majority of the problems plaguing Americans. Located in Tempe, and founded in 1993, SCNM is an accredited higher-learning institution offering a four-year medical program.

Adjacent to the college, the SCNM Medical Center is one of the largest naturopathic medical centers in the Southwest, and offers family and primary care using integrative modalities such as homeopathy, clinical nutrition, botanical medicine, manipulation, acupuncture, and pharmacology.

Make your reservations today to save your place!

Visit www.scnm.edu/DISCOVERSCNM

Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine 2140 E. Broadway Road (just west of the 101) Tempe, AZ 85282 November 2015 — East Valley — ­ Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 5

nutritional

Healthy Holiday Eating With Diabetes

By Leah Rucker, MAEd, RD, CDE, Dignity Health, Center for Diabetes Management

T

he holiday season is here — the time of celebrations and gatherings when indulgent foods, sweet treats, and festive beverages abound. In addition, the stress of hectic schedules, travel, extra shopping, and holiday preparations can easily lead to extra eating. For those with diabetes, holiday time can be a challenging time to keep blood sugar levels balanced and avoid weight gain. But, with a bit of extra effort, planning, and some simple steps, you can enjoy the holidays in a healthier way. Here are five top tips to help you stay on track with diabetes this holiday season: 1. Revise Your Recipes You don’t have to sacrifice taste to lighten up some of your favorite holiday recipes. Simple ingredient swaps can greatly reduce calories, carbohydrates, and fat. Try adding cinnamon, nutmeg, fresh ginger, or vanilla in place of some sugar in sweet recipes. For most desserts, replacing up to half of the sugar with a sugar substitute will still result in great taste and texture. Light cream cheese, light mayonnaise, and reduced-fat cheeses can cut fat and calories by up to half, compared to their regular counterparts. Plain Greek nonfat yogurt is a wonderful substitute for sour cream or mayonnaise in party dips. Simply reducing the fat in a recipe by 25 to 30 percent generally works without noticeably changing the flavor.

You can find a wide variety of healthier holiday recipes online through the American Diabetes Association website: www.diabetes.org. Simply click on the “Recipes” tab. There you can also calculate the nutrition breakdown of your own recipes, find mealplanning ideas, watch cooking videos, and more.

2. Party With a Plan A little planning goes a long way toward making healthier decisions at holiday parties and events. First, don’t go to the party starving, since this usually leads to overindulging and higher blood sugar levels. Have a small healthy snack an hour or two beforehand. Consider bringing your favorite healthy dish to share. Once you’re at the party, plan to check out all of the food options first.

Then, be selective! Decide which foods you’d enjoy most, and leave the rest behind. Savor the flavor of those choices by eating slowly. Don’t deprive yourself of your favorites, but do manage the portions. Aim to keep carbohydrate-containing foods to about two fist-sized servings at a meal. Avoid temptation by moving away from the buffet table, and enjoy socializing elsewhere. Drink water frequently to help feel fuller, stay hydrated, and eat less. When fitting sweet treats in, keep servings small, and substitute them for other carbohydrates. For example, pass on the dinner rolls to include a small piece of pumpkin pie. Oops, overindulged? Offset those extra calories with extra activity.

3. Rethink Your Drink Holiday drinks are often loaded with sugar and calories. It’s best to choose calorie-free drinks, such as water, unsweetened tea, club Page 6 — Healthy Cells Magazine — East Valley — ­ November 2015

soda, or diet soda. Talk to your doctor about whether alcohol is safe for you. If you choose to drink alcohol, limit the amount. Recommendations for those with diabetes are no more than one drink per day for women, and two per day for men. One drink equals five ounces of wine, 12 ounces of beer, or one ounce of 100 proof distilled spirits. Wine and champagne have just two to three grams of carbohydrates in five ounces, distilled alcohol has zero grams of carbohydrates. Cocktail mixes, however, can be very high in carbohydrates, so it’s best to choose non-caloric mixes, such as seltzer, club soda, diet soda, or sugar-free tonic. Because alcohol can cause low blood sugar, have your drink with food. Be sure to check blood sugar levels regularly, and especially before bed, after consuming alcohol.

A carbohydrate-containing snack is recommended if bedtime blood sugar is below 120 mg/dL after drinking alcohol.

4. Savor the Season While the holiday season is filled with indulgent foods, there are many nutrient- and antioxidant-rich seasonal foods to enjoy. Sweet potatoes are plentiful this time of year. They are packed with great nutrition, including fiber, vitamins A, and C. They can be mashed, baked, grilled, or roasted. Cranberries are also a seasonal favorite, full of vitamin C and antioxidants. Other nutritious foods of the season include apples, pears, pomegranates, pumpkin, squash, and root vegetables. Full of healthy soluble fiber, these foods can help balance blood sugar and lower cholesterol. Additionally, these nutrition powerhouses are loaded with vitamins and plant compounds, with immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory benefits.

Include more of these healthful choices in your daily diet and your holiday menus for their many nutritional advantages. Just remember to account for the carbohydrates in these foods.

5. Balance Food With Fun and Fitness One of the best ways to control blood sugar and compensate for extra holiday calories is to stay active. Take a walk after those larger meals. Offer to clean up after the meal or party to keep moving.

Gather the family outdoors to play soccer, basketball, tag, Frisbee, or football. Take some extra laps around the mall or store when holiday shopping. Get up and dance at those parties. Making an effort to keep moving throughout this busy season is key to keeping extra pounds at bay, and a powerful way to manage blood sugar levels.

It’s also an effective strategy for combatting holiday stress.

Finally, keep focused on enjoying the fun of time spent with family and friends, and the special meaning of those traditions and celebrations. You’ll be glad you made the extra effort to make healthier holiday choices to start the new year off feeling your best!

Leah Rucker is a Registered Dietitian and Certified Diabetes Educator, with Mercy Gilbert Medical Center’s Center for Diabetes Management.

For more information about the Center, call 480-728-3535.

Photo credit: AlonzoDesign/iStock

Pecan Crusted Turkey Tenderloin With Sweet Potatoes Nothing says the holidays like turkey and sweet potatoes.

This delightful dish is full of vitamin A, fiber, and healthy fats from the pecans.

Prep Time: 15 minutes This recipe serves 6 Ingredients:

Cooking spray 1 egg 2 egg whites 1 tsp. garlic powder 1/2 tsp. ground black pepper 2 oz. pecan pieces 24 oz. turkey breast tenderloin 2 6 oz. sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into wedges (about 18 wedges per potato) 1 Tbs. olive oil 1/2 tsp. cinnamon 2 tsp.

Splenda brown sugar blend

Instructions Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Spray large rectangular baking dish with cooking spray. In a medium shallow bowl, whisk together egg and egg whites. In another medium shallow bowl, combine garlic powder, pepper, and pecans.

Dip turkey breast tenderloin in egg mixture, and coat well.

Dredge turkey in pecan mixture, and cover both sides. Place in the baking dish. Discard leftover egg mixture. In a medium bowl, mix together the sweet potatoes, oil, cinnamon, and Splenda brown sugar. Arrange the sweet potatoes around the turkey breast tenderloin in baking dish. Bake for 50 minutes or until done (turkey breast reaches 165 degrees).

Nutrition Facts: Serving Size: 4 oz. turkey and 6 sweet potato wedges Calories: 250; Carbohydrate: 14 g; Protein: 25 g; Fat: 10.0 g; Saturated Fat: 1.3 g; Dietary Fiber: 2 g; Sodium: 75 mg Source: American Diabetes Association – Recipes for Healthy Living

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www.Tri-CityAudiology.com November 2015 — East Valley — ­ Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 7

physical

What to Do If You Fall

Kelly Sullivan and Lorraine Calderwood

Submitted by Family Wishes Assisted Living Placement Agency

E

ach year, millions of older people — those 65 and older — fall.

In fact, one out of three older people fall each year, but less than half tell their doctor. Falling once doubles your chances of falling again, and one out of five falls causes a serious injury, such as broken bones or a head injury. Whether you’re at home or somewhere else, a sudden fall can be startling and upsetting. If you do fall, stay as calm as possible. Take several deep breaths to try to relax.

How to Get Up From a Fall • Remain still on the floor or ground for a few moments. This will help you get over the shock of falling.

• Decide if you’re hurt before getting up. Getting up too quickly, or in the wrong way, could make an injury worse.

• If you think you can get up safely without help, roll over onto your side.

• Rest again while your body and blood pressure adjust. Slowly get up on your hands and knees, and crawl to a sturdy chair.

Page 8 — Healthy Cells Magazine — East Valley — ­ November 2015

• Put your hands on the chair seat, and slide one foot forward so that it is flat on the floor. Keep the other leg bent so the knee is on the floor.

• From this kneeling position, slowly rise and turn your body to sit in the chair.

If you’re hurt or can’t get up on your own, ask someone for help, or call 911. If you’re alone, try to get into a comfortable position and wait for help to arrive.

Tell Your Doctor Be sure to discuss any fall with your doctor. Write down when, where, and how you fell, so you can discuss the details with your doctor. The doctor can assess whether a medical issue or other cause of the fall needs to be addressed. Knowing the cause can help you plan to prevent future falls.

After a fall, your doctor might refer you to other health care providers, who can help prevent future falls. A physical therapist can help with gait, balance, strength training, and walking aids. An occupational therapist can suggest changes in your home that may lower your risk of falls.

Devices to Help Prevent Falls Appropriate use of assistive devices can prevent harmful falls.

A physical or occupational therapist can help you decide which devices might be helpful, and teach you how to use them safely.

• Emergency Response Devices work through your telephone line. A button or bracelet is worn at all times in your home. If you fall, or need emergency assistance for any reason, a push of the button will alert the service. There is a fee for medical monitoring services, but it may be worth the cost.

• Canes may help you feel more stable when you walk. Different types of canes are available.

• Walkers will help you stay balanced by giving you a wide base of support. Be sure to choose a walker that fits you and gives a level of stability. A wide variety of walkers are available, and offer a variety of accessories that will make it more convenient to use the walker • Reachers or grabbers let you take lightweight items from high shelves and other places, and pick up objects from the floor — so you do not have to bend over.

• Portable or Cell Phones can be carried with you from room to room. When it rings, you won’t have to rush to answer it, and you will have it with you in case you fall.

Addressing the Fear of Falling Many older people who have fallen are afraid of falling again. The fear of falling again might prevent you from doing activities you enjoy or need to do. Your muscles and bones can weaken over time without the physical activity that comes with doing daily tasks or exercise. As a result, you could become more — not less — likely to fall.

If you’re worried about falling, talk with your doctor or another health care provider about ways to improve your balance, and help build your walking confidence. Getting rid of your fear of falling can help you to stay active, maintain your physical health, and prevent future falls.

Repeated falls may be an indication it’s time to acquire some extra help, in-home care, or consider senior living. A senior living placement agency can help with an assessment, and provide additional information and resources to meet your needs.

Call today for the FREE services of Family Wishes Senior Living Placement Agency; owned by two sisters, Kelly and Lorraine, who are ready to help you or your loved one find the best assisted living options. Let their experience guide you. They can set up appointments and/or accompany you on tours of homes or facilities, and locate places in your desired area and price point. They specialize in helping families make this transition with confidence and ease, connecting care needs to finding a perfect new home or community.

Family Wishes…Our Family, Helping Your Family. Contact Kelly Sullivan at 602-989-0900 or Lorraine Calderwood at 602-377-8096, or visit our website at www.familywishes.com.

Photo credit: Imagesbybarbara/iStock

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480-890-0100 575 W. Chandler Blvd.

Suite 220 Chandler, AZ 85225 November 2015 — East Valley — ­ Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 9

emotional

Change Your Pain

Amy Burnside, LMSW

By Amy Burnside, LMSW, Infinite Healing and Wellness

T

ired of chronic pain controlling your life? You can change your pain! Living with chronic pain can be life altering, and make you feel like you are not in control. Whether it be dealing with the physical discomfort of the pain, the effects it has had on your life, upsetting memories of what led to your pain, or not knowing how to talk about it to others, there are new tools that can help — along with good medical care.

First, it is important to have a general understanding of how pain affects your brain. According to Mark Grant, a clinical psychologist who has studied and treated patients with chronic pain for over 20 years, pain is a brain problem. Chronic pain is not a problem that you have created, and it is not something you “just need to get over.” Physical injury, neurological changes, genetic factors, and prolonged stress can all contribute to chronic pain; it involves changes in brain chemistry, structure, and functioning, and a failure Page 10 — Healthy Cells Magazine — East Valley — ­ November 2015

of homeostatic processes (internal stability). All of these factors can impair your body’s ability to regulate and cope with pain.

The more stress you experience, the more sensitive the brain becomes to pain; and the more biochemical imbalances occur. This can lead to sleeping problems, anxiety, depression, decreased self-confidence, and increased sensitivity to pain. To further complicate the situation, chronic pain itself is a stressor that is with you 24/7, which may be repeatedly affecting you on a physical, emotional, and cognitive level. Living with chronic pain may cause you to feel not in control of your bodily sensations.

This may change the way you feel about yourself, and your competence, compared to how you felt before the onset of the pain.

The good news is that our brain has neuroplasticity, which is the brain’s capacity to be changed by experiences. If you change your experiences, you may be able to decrease your pain.

So, how do you effectively manage the pain, and the stressful feelings associated with it? According to Grant, the most effective way to do this is to stimulate the part of the brain where pain is “stored.” This includes engaging in activities that enhance brain connectivity and information flow, such as having supportive and loving relationships, and engaging in interesting and enjoyable activities. Anything that stimulates different feelings than those associated with pain can help. Over time, engaging in these activities stimulates neural repair and re-wiring, thus stimulating changes in the brain activity that are maintaining the pain. There is also a type of therapy, known as EMDR Therapy (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), which can further assist you (when done by a qualified EMDR therapist).

EMDR Therapy is a highly effective therapy that was originally created to help treat PTSD. It is now believed to have a profound effect on other conditions, including chronic pain, when used with other treatment elements. An EMDR therapist is a specially trained, licensed counselor, who can help you break down your problem into different parts, in order of priority to you, to help decrease the physical and mental distress caused by your pain. Good brain functioning requires a smooth flow of information in all directions. Anything that disrupts the normal flow of information between the different areas of the brain, including chronic pain, causes problems. EMDR can help get the whole brain working together. EMDR’s unique combination of sensory inputs, focused attention, and modified interpretation of thoughts and memories makes it an effective treatment for chronic pain.

According to Grant, current research is proving EMDR Therapy to be the most effective non-medical treatment for chronic pain (above cognitive-behavior therapy). In some cases, the physical pain symptoms can be eliminated; and in other situations, they can be decreased, or more effectively managed. Of course, EMDR Therapy is not a one stop shopping experience. In addition to EMDR Therapy, individuals need to adopt a healthy and manageable self-care plan. This may include learning to talk to others about their pain, asking for what they need from others, practicing relaxation exercises, getting enough sleep, maintaining proper nutrition, and engaging in an appropriate level of physical exercise. All of this can be achieved by working with a supportive counselor with whom you trust, and has special training in working with chronic pain.

Amy Burnside is a licensed counselor at Infinite Healing and Wellness with over 15 years of personal experience managing her own chronic pain. She is an EMDR therapist, and has specialized education in the treatment of chronic pain. Additionally, Burnside has extensive training in Mindfulness-based therapy interventions, which can help individuals learn to live more in the present moment, and let go of past hurts and future worries. To learn more, contact Amy at 480-448-1076 or amy@infinitehw.com, 2563 S. Val Vista Drive #108, Gilbert, AZ 85295, www.infinitehealingandwellness.com.

Sources available upon request.

Photo credit: Goldfaery/iStock

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November 2015 — East Valley — ­ Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 11

geriatric care

Caring Solutions for Aging Adults and Caregivers

Jamie Flesher, RN, CMC, CMCN

By Jamie Flesher, RN, CMC, CMCN, Legacy Home Care, LLC

D

o you live alone and need help, but have no one to help you? Do you find yourself stressed and frustrated caring for a loved one? Do you need the support of others, or guidance about how to make your life just a little easier while you are caring for your loved one? You are not alone! Professional Geriatric Care Managers can provide help and resources to take the load off of you.

Geriatric Care Managers are able to address a broad range of issues related to the well-being of their client. They also have extensive knowledge about the costs, quality, and availability of resources in their communities. You can engage a Geriatric Care Managers to assist in a variety of areas, such as: Housing; Assisted Living Placement; Home care services; Medical management; Chronic disease education and coaching on selfmanagement; Life care planning; Social activities; Legal; Financial; Government assistance programs; Safety, and security.

Working with families, a geriatric care manager’s expertise provides the answers at a time of uncertainty. Their guidance leads families to the actions and decisions that ensure quality care, and an optimal life for those they love, thus reducing worry, stress, and time off of work for family caregivers.

You can visit the Aging Life Care Association’s website for more information, and how to find a geriatric care manager in your area: www.aginglifecare.org.

Please call our office for a FREE consultation, home safety assessment, or a free 30 minutes phone consultation with a Geriatric Care Manager, at 480-777-0070. Visit our website at www.legacyhomecare.net. Jamie can be reached by email at Jamie@legacycarehome.net.

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480-855-5900 480-855-9171

www.iwomenshealthcare.com Page 12 — Healthy Cells Magazine — East Valley — ­ November 2015

reconnecting

Holiday Hints for Alzheimer’s Caregivers and Families

Leslie A. Davis, CDP

Submitted by Leslie A. Davis, CDP, the Summit at Sunland Springs

H

olidays can be meaningful, enriching times for both the person with Alzheimer’s disease, and his or her family. Maintaining or adapting family rituals and traditions helps all family members feel a sense of belonging and family identity. For a person with Alzheimer’s, this link with a familiar past is reassuring.

The tips below can help you and the person with Alzheimer’s visit and reconnect with family, friends, and neighbors during the holidays.

Finding the Right Balance Many caregivers have mixed feelings about holidays. They may have happy memories of the past, but they also may worry about the extra demands that holidays make on their time and energy.

Here are some ways to balance doing many holiday-related activities, while taking care of your own needs, and those of the person with Alzheimer’s disease: • C elebrate holidays that are important to you. Include the person with Alzheimer’s as much as possible.

• S et your own limits, and be clear about them with others. You do not have to live up to the expectations of friends or relatives.

Your situation is different now.

• Involve the person with Alzheimer’s in simple holiday preparations, or have him or her observe your preparations. Observing you will familiarize him or her with the upcoming festivities. Participating with you may give the person the pleasure of helping, and the fun of anticipating and reminiscing.

• E ncourage friends and family to visit — even if it’s difficult. Limit the number of visitors at any one time, or have a few people visit quietly with the person in a separate room.

• P repare quiet distractions to use, such as a family photo album, if the person with Alzheimer’s becomes upset or overstimulated.

• T ry to avoid situations that may confuse or frustrate the person with Alzheimer’s, such as crowds, changes in routine, and strange places. Also try to stay away from noise, loud conversations, loud music, lighting that is too bright or too dark, and having too much rich food or drink (especially alcohol).

• F ind time for holiday activities you like to do. If you receive invitations to celebrations that the person with Alzheimer’s cannot attend, go yourself. Ask a friend or family member to spend time with the person while you’re out.

Preparing Guests Explain to guests that the person with Alzheimer’s disease does not always remember what is expected and acceptable. Give examples of unusual behaviors that may take place, such as incontinence, eating food with fingers, wandering, or hallucinations.

• If this is the first visit since the person with Alzheimer’s became severely impaired, tell guests that the visit may be painful. The memory-impaired person may not remember guests’ names or relationships, but can still enjoy their company.

•E xplain that memory loss is the result of the disease, and is not intentional.

• Stress that the meaningfulness of the moment together matters more than what the person remembers.

Preparing the Person With Alzheimer’s Here are some tips to help the person with Alzheimer’s disease get ready for visitors: • Begin showing a photo of the guest to the person a week before arrival. Each day, explain who the visitor is while showing the photo.

• Arrange a phone call for the person with Alzheimer’s and the visitor. The call gives the visitor an idea of what to expect, and gives the person with Alzheimer’s an opportunity to become familiar with the visitor.

• Keep the memory-impaired person’s routine as close to normal as possible.

• During the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, guard against fatigue, and find time for adequate rest.

The Summit at Sunland Springs is designed to make a meaningful difference in the lives of our residents and their families. We are a Memory Care Community, which is an Assisted Living Community with a Directed Care license, catering to those with Alzheimer’s/ Dementia. Call today for your tour! Phone: 480-378-0015, email: Sales@TheSummitAZ.com. Please visit www.TheSummitAZ.com for more information. We’re located at 2415 S Signal Butte Road, Mesa, AZ 85209.

Photo credit: fstop123/iStock November 2015 — East Valley — ­ Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 13

photofacial

The Most Amazing Laser Treatment You Should Be Getting!

Lisa LoCoco, LE, CLT, LSO

By Lisa LoCoco, LE, CLT, LSO, Derma Health

I

have been in the medical aesthetic field going on 10 years now.

Throughout my career, I have always been a big advocate for Photofacials. Any opportunity I get to perform a photofacial treatment, I am overwhelmed with excitement, because, let’s face it, I am about to remove any opportunities for the pigment on your skin to turn into something dangerous.

Photofacials are well-known laser treatments that many people most likely have experienced once or twice. I recommend a Photofacial system that is able to treat dark browns and light browns, as well as tackle annoying reds to give the patient a more even skin complexion. The laser light is attracted to your pigment, or anything with color, and brings it to the surface, where it flakes off within a few days.

As we continue through the journey of the aging process, we start to notice those little brown spots appearing on our face, chest, hands, shoulders, legs — pretty much everywhere. These spots are not to be taken lightly. According to the Arizona Department of Health Services, 2,241 invasive and in situ melanoma cases were reported in 2013. The symptoms of melanoma include: • A mole that is changing in size, shape or color • A spot that looks different from all of the other spots on your skin • Pigment spread from a spot border to surrounding skin • Redness or a new swelling beyond the border of a spot, or a spot that may contain patches of red, white, or blue • C hange in sensation, itchiness, tenderness, or pain If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, please make an appointment with a dermatologist as soon as possible. A visit to your dermatologist is recommended once a year to check any suspicious lesions you see on your skin. One in five Arizonans will develop skin cancer.

After you are cleared from a dermatologist, it is recommended to begin a Photofacial series. Some common questions I am asked by patients are: • D oes it hurt? It feels like a rubber-band snap, but is completely tolerable. Most patients are surprised at how tolerable it really is.

• W ill I have downtime? You may experience some microcrusting, or what looks like coffee grounds on the skin, which

Page 14 — Healthy Cells Magazine — East Valley — ­ November 2015

does not constitute downtime. These will flake off in a couple days. If we treat areas such as arms or legs, the micro-crusting may take a few days more.

• C an I go to work the next day? Absolutely. You can also wear make-up!

• H ow long will results last? Results are dependent on you.

Are you wearing sunscreen every day? Are you following proper homecare? With every laser treatment, maintenance treatments are needed. We will assess the severity of your pigment at your complimentary skin analysis.

• H ow many treatments do I need? It Varies according to the color of the spots being treated; browns three to five, and reds five to ten.

Redness/Rosacea is very common in lighter skin types. Photofacials is the best laser treatment for your skin. Rosacea is a chronic condition that is not curable, but with Photofacials, we can definitely control it. It is important for this type pf patient to wear a good sunscreen (we recommend Tizo) that is UVA and UVB protection. If we are treating rosacea, you can expect a series of five to ten treatments, depending on how severe the redness is.

So what are the benefits of a photofacial, and why is it the best treatment for your skin in the non-ablative (no-downtime) laser realm? This treatment gives you the beautiful, even skin tone you had when you were younger. Your skin reflects light, rather than absorbing it, and actually brightens your eyes. The most popular treatment areas are the face, neck, chest, shoulders, arms, and legs.

Let’s get started on your beauty journey to flawless skin!

At Derma Health, we understand you have questions…and we have the answers. Get a complimentary consultation at one of the five valley locations! Come in for a tour and get a “feel” for our place. It’s your money, your skin, your body, and your future. Don’t you want to look and feel great — inside and out?

Start your beauty transformation today: call 602-903-3011 or visit www.dhiskin.com/health.

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Are household responsibilities like cooking and cleaning too much to handle?

Have you noticed memory difficulties or impaired decision-making?

Are you or your loved one physically or mentally unable to care for yourself?

Is the current primary caregiver fatigued and stressed out?

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If you answer, “yes” to one or more of the questions, it may be time to consider an assisted living home, nursing home or memory care facility.

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L Y ALDA CO T November 2015 — East Valley — ­ Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 15

feature story

A Lifestyle of Possibilities

By Allyson Nathan, Director of Marketing at Retirement Community Specialists for Generations at Agritopia

Joe and Dee enjoying their new home at Generations.

G

enerations at Agritopia serves as the proud centerpiece of Agritopia, the legendary, master-planned, urban agricultural community located in Gilbert, Arizona. Grown from a simple vision to build a senior living community in a neighborhood designed to promote relationships and connections; where friends and neighbors visit on front porches and catch up over intentionally low, backyard fences.

Recognized nationally for its spectacular design and cutting-edge features and amenities, Generations is the proud winner of the prestigious Architecture and Design Award by Senior Housing News. While Page 16 — Healthy Cells Magazine — East Valley — ­ November 2015

Generations immediately impresses upon walking in the door, that is only the beginning.

In addition to our warm and welcoming front desk concierge, residents and guests are greeted by a magnificent bronze sculpture, aptly named “The Spirit of Imagination.” This unique work of art, depicting a young boy’s dream to fly, was hand-chosen by the award-winning Thoma-Holec interior design firm. LuAnn Thoma-Holec’s interpretation of the “freedom for” lifestyle described by Eric Johnston, President and CEO of RCS, and an IPA partner, couldn’t have been demonstrated better.

Beyond the aesthetics that include artistically-designed flooring details, coffered ceilings, and high quality finishes, the purposefully designed amenity areas host a myriad of gatherings, or serve as the perfect setting for visiting with friends, or relaxing in front of a fire with a good book.

The Vineyard Wine Cellar, winner of the 2015 ASID Design for Excellence Award for Best Singular Commercial Space, and the Silk Tassel Tea Room, which won second place in the same category, are enjoyed frequently by residents and their families. Equally impressive is the Deuces Wild Card and Game Room, where residents can find a game of chess, pool, darts, and more. The marquee outside the Legends Theatre displays what current or classic movie or TV show is playing for residents to enjoy, along with fresh-popped popcorn.

With a focus on lifelong learning, Generations University offers residents ongoing educational opportunities, and had eight residents in its first graduating class. The Vibrant Living Fitness Center boasts large windows, high-end equipment, free-weights, and space for yoga and other group classes. The bright, spacious setting makes it easy for residents to enjoy a regular schedule of wellness activities. Our Vibrant Living activity schedule literally fills the page with life enrichment and social programs created to appeal to a wide range of interests. From gardening and painting, to billiards and bridge, there is something for everyone to enjoy, and residents are always encouraged to share their favorite pastimes with others, or enjoy them on their own.

What would a senior living community be without good, and I mean really good, food? At Generations, the menus parallel some of the best restaurants around, while reflecting the talent of our chef who creates them. Our Lantana Dining Room is open all day for residents to enjoy beautifully prepared, nutritious meals that appeal to even the pickiest of eaters, leaving the challenge of maintaining a healthy diet a distant memory. Our full-service wait staff often becomes an extension of family, learning each resident’s unique preferences and tastes, so meals can be prepared just right. In cases where special diets are necessary, our menus include options for residents without having to sacrifice quality or taste. Our Bistro serves up trendy coffee drinks, and is a favorite place for a quick snack while catching up on the news, or enjoying an impromptu card game. Just imagine, no more need to run to the store or put down your good book to prepare a meal and, even better, no dishes to wash afterwards! Of course, our well-appointed apartments feature beautifully-designed kitchens, with granite counters and stainless appliances, where residents can prepare their favorite recipes to enjoy on their own, or while entertaining family or friends.

As one would expect, everything we do stems from our goal to deliver quality service and warm hospitality. Our concierges are available to assist residents with everything from scheduling transportation for errands or appointments, to making sure they know about the events and activities available each day. Our onsite beauty salon and barber shop is a favorite amenity for residents who enjoy having skilled stylists and manicurists available in a convenient, comfortable setting.

Our onsite physician’s office hosts our visiting “house-call” doctors, who are available by appointment for routine checkups, follow-ups after medical procedures, or to care for sore throats and the like. Our residents enjoy the convenience of not having to drive to, or coordinate transportation to healthcare appointments, or having to spend valuable time in waiting rooms when they have so many better things to do!

Our inclusive lifestyle provides scheduled transportation, weekly housekeeping, and two chef-prepared meals per day. Basic cable, all utilities (except personal telephone), and 24-hour emergency call service are also included. In addition, personal laundry and linen services are included with all assisted living and Alla Vita memory care services.

Generations has Wi-Fi throughout the community to keep residents connected to friends, Facebook, and current news.

Don enjoying a fun ice cream social.

Shirley exploring watercolor class

November 2015 — East Valley — ­ Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 17

feature story

continued

Generations is a smoke-free community with pet-friendly independent and assisted living apartments designed in a variety of styles that include studio, one-bedroom, one-bedroom plus den, and two-bedroom floor plans. Most first floor apartments feature outdoor patios adjacent to inviting garden paths or tree-lined neighborhood streets. Second floor apartments open to balconies overlooking distant mountains, the surrounding community, or the fountains and gazebo beautifully situated in our courtyard.

All apartment homes feature full kitchens or kitchenettes, equipped with stainless appliances, tile floors, granite countertops, and generous in-home storage spaces. One and two-bedroom styles include a convenient, personal washer and dryer. The large windows in each apartment make each room feel light and airy while framing beautiful views from every vantage point. Whether it is personal time in the privacy of their own apartment, or quality time spent with family and friends, Generations offers a lifestyle our residents can be proud of.

Generations offers an integrated independent and assisted living model in our main building, allowing residents to receive customary assisted living services in the privacy of their own apartments, without requiring a move to a designated area for that care. Residents enjoy peace of mind knowing if their personal care needs increase, whether temporarily or long-term, they won’t have the added burden of moving.

The beautiful entry courtyard, with its statuesque running fountain and circular drive, separates the main building from our smaller, more intimate setting, where Signature Services residents enjoy beautiful, second-story views, along with the convenience of their dining and living room areas located right outside their apartment doors. With caregivers always within reach, residents and their families can rest easy knowing they have more immediate access to care. Our Alla Vita Memory Care model, located on the first floor, was custom-designed to celebrate life! This unique concept delivers a holistic approach to care, and includes programs designed to minimize stress, encourage interaction, and promote overall wellness.

Examples of the programs offered include aromatherapy, reflexology, music therapy, and more. Our Signature Services and Alla Vita neighborhoods are comprised of 24 apartments each, with 12 on each side, that surround lovely living and dining rooms with views of the central courtyard, and double-sided fireplaces. While the Alla Vita neighborhood is subtly secure for our residents’ safety, both settings provide ideal environments for our caregivers to facilitate meaningful activities and serve nutritious, chef-prepared meals and snacks. Residents and their family members all enjoy knowing certified caregivers are just outside their apartment door, 24-hours a day, to provide medication management, and assistance with activities of daily living, such as bathing, dressing, oral hygiene, ambulation, and continence. Most importantly, everyone enjoys visits from family members, who are welcome any time of the day or night.

Developed by IPA of Grand Haven, MI, in conjunction with RCS, the Phoenix-based senior housing management arm of the company, Generations, welcomed its first residents in July 2014, and quickly became a senior living community of choice for residents, families, and their trusted advisors.

Generations senior living communities are family-owned and operated, enabling us to design, develop, and deliver quality environments, and custom programs and services. Our residents appreciate the unique adaptations that reflect each community’s locale, which, in many cases, makes the decision to move much easier. We are delighted to announce Generations at Ahwatukee is in development, with occupancy anticipated in mid-2017. Anyone interested in joining our interest list is invited to contact Generations at Agritopia for information. Our plans for additional Generations will be shared when they are available. We invite you to schedule a personal tour so you can see, firsthand, how our residents enjoy freedom for what matters most.

Generations at Agritopia offers vibrant living with an extensive array of services and amenities for independent living, assisted living, and memory care residents, giving them the freedom for enjoying what matters most.

Stop by Fridays at 10am, for a movie, tour and lunch. Call 480-485-2000 for reservations.

Generations at Agritopia • 2811 E. Agritopia Loop S., Gilbert, AZ 85296 www.generationsseniorliving.com • info@generationsseniorliving.com Page 18 — Healthy Cells Magazine — East Valley — ­ November 2015

healthcare rewards

The Time Has Come for Health Care to Change

Jason J. Paul

Health and Health Care From an Inside Perspective

By Jason J. Paul, Founder, LifeCore Group, LLC

T

he time has come for health care to change. Our current health care system reacts, and manages disease. Whether you make an effort to influence your health, your insurance and health care costs continue to increase. This approach of treating everyone’s effort the same does not motivate change, so costs continue to increase.

None of us can “control” disease, or prevent those things that are accidents, but shouldn’t those of us that make a choice to do what we can to influence and reduce our risk be rewarded for that effort? Yes! However, the health care system was built on a reactive model, and now is big business. The way to change this is to understand what keeps this broken system alive.

I have spent the last 18 years as a benefit and wellness consultant to employers and consumers. I also have unique empathy that led me to that career, and my reason to change our health care system. My mother has had 37 surgeries, and my father has had five in the course of my life. My mother’s journey began as a child with incurable rickets, and became more difficult after a doctor overdosed her with calcium — causing her to lose her kidneys and require a transplant 36 years ago. My father ruptured his back and suffered a nicked nerve as a result of surgery — rendering him forever unable to work. Being there for my parents, I saw firsthand countless redundancies, inefficiencies, and miscommunications, along with obscene waste of patients’ and insurance companies’ money. Equally difficult to watch was insurance companies dictating care to providers, and requiring patients to jump through endless, pointless hoops.

Empathy is admirable, but solutions are critical. The solution is empowerment, and our willingness to put forth effort to influence our health; a program that gives all of us the ability to lower our insurance costs, and the cost of everyday preventative health care services.

What if we create a true new health care system with an “effort equals reward” model that acknowledges all of us putting in effort to influence our health? A health prevention network, helping this population with their everyday health care needs, could support that.

Emotional and financial effects related to health challenges in my family, and the experience of such redundant behavior in the health care system, led me on a journey to find a solution to the problem. My greatest achievement is discovering that if you want to have a historic impact, you must put yourself in other people’s shoes to see and understand their perspectives. The biggest challenge is getting others to understand the value of health.

Such a structure would create a paradigm shift, changing the financial structure, giving the end user the motivation to reduce their personal cost of insurance and health care, changing how we consume health care, and how we purchase insurance to protect against the unforeseen events of life.

Does this sound like the type of health care you want for you and your family?

I have dedicated my life to creating LifeCore, which has developed a program called Health Dividends™. To learn more about this program, or to find out how you can be a part of this revolutionary approach, please visit www.lifecoregroup.com, or email us at contact@lifecoregroup.com.

Photo credit: bowdenimages/iStock November 2015 — East Valley — ­ Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 19

breast cancer awareness

Understanding Breast Health Part 2

David N. Kells, MD

Submitted by David N. Kells, MD, iWomen’s Health Care

What can a mammogram show?

Mammograms can show lumps, calcifications, and other changes in your breast. The radiologist will study the mammogram for breast changes that do not look normal, and for differences between your breasts. When possible, he or she will compare your most recent mammogram with past mammograms to check for changes. Mammography is a good tool to find breast changes in most women who have no signs of breast cancer. However, it does not detect all breast cancers, and many changes it finds are not cancer.

Breast Conditions Most breast changes and conditions that are found by a woman, or during a mammogram, are not breast cancer. Conditions that are benign changes, and do not increase your risk of breast cancer, include: • Adenosis: enlarged breast lobules • Cysts: lumps filled with fluid • Fat Necrosis: round firm lumps, usually without pain • Fibroadenomas: hard round lump that moves easily • Intraductal Papilloma: a wart-like growth, can cause pain and include discharge Page 20 — Healthy Cells Magazine — East Valley — ­ November 2015

Conditions that are considered risk factors for breast cancer include: • atypical hyperplasia (ALH): abnormal cells in the breast lobules • a typical ductal hyperplasia (ADH): abnormal cells in the breast ducts • lobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS): Abnormal cells in the breast lobules, more than ALH but have not have not spread outside the breast lobules, it’s called “in situ,” meaning in place.

Breast conditions that may become cancer: • d uctal carcinoma in situ (DCIS): abnormal cells in the lining of the breast duct Breast cancer cells form in the tissue of the breast. Breast cancer cells: • Grow and divide without control • Invade nearby breast tissue • May form a mass called a tumor • May metastasize, or spread, to the lymph nodes or other parts of the body Follow-up Testing After an Abnormal Mammogram After an abnormal mammogram, additional follow-up tests may be needed to learn more.

Ultrasound: An ultrasound exam uses sound waves to make a picture of breast tissue. This picture is called a sonogram. It helps radiologists to see if a lump or mass is solid or filled with fluid. A fluid-filled lump is called a cyst MRI: Magnetic resonance imaging uses a powerful magnet, radio waves, and a computer to take detailed pictures of areas inside the breast.

Breast Biopsy: A breast biopsy is a procedure to remove a sample of breast cells or tissue, or an entire lump. A pathologist then looks at the sample under a microscope to check for signs of disease. A biopsy is the only way to find out if cells are cancer.

• F ine-needle aspiration biopsy: A fine-needle aspiration biopsy is a simple procedure that takes only a few minutes.

Your health care provider inserts a thin needle into the breast to take out fluid and cells.

• Core biopsy: A core biopsy, also called a core needle biopsy, uses a needle to remove small pieces or cores of breast tissue. The samples are about the size of a grain of rice.

• V acuum-assisted biopsy: A vacuum-assisted biopsy uses a probe, connected to a vacuum device, to remove a small sample of breast tissue. The small cut made in the breast is much smaller than with surgical biopsy.

• Surgical biopsy: A surgical biopsy is an operation to remove part, or all, of a lump so it can be looked at under a microscope to check for signs of disease.

It can be upsetting to notice a breast change, to get an abnormal test result, or to learn about a new condition or disease. Ask friends or loved ones for support, and take someone with you

while you are learning about your testing and treatment choices.

Ask your health care provider to explain medical terms that are new or confusing. Have them share with you how other people have handled the types of feelings that you are having, and tell you about specialists that you can talk with to learn more.

Most doctors welcome a second opinion, especially when treatment is involved. Getting a second opinion is often covered, or even required, by your health insurance. Talking with another doctor can give you peace of mind. It can also help you make the best choices about your health.

Take the hereditary cancer quiz to find out your cancer risk at: www.hereditarycancerquiz.com/iwomenshea.

The questionnaire takes about one minute to complete, and will help determine whether you should be further evaluated for either Hereditary Breast and Ovarian Cancer syndrome or Lynch syndrome.

• Genetic testing can help you determine if you are at increased risk for developing certain types of cancer.

• 25 genes are analyzed for hereditary cancer risk.

• Most insurance companies cover genetic testing at 100 percent. iWomen’s Health Care is a boutique style practice that believes in partnering with patients for care. “Your care, your comfort, our expertise!” For information, or to schedule a consultation, call 480-855-5900, email: info@iwomenshealthcare.com, or visit www.iwomenshealthcare.com. Se habla español.

Sources available upon request.

Photo credit: uchar/iStock

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November 2015 — East Valley — ­ Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 21

sleep disorders

Sleep Apnea = Oxygen Deprivation =

Increased Cancer Risk

Beth Hamann, DDS

Shari Aftahi, DMD

Submitted by Beth Hamann, DDS & Shari Aftahi, DMD, Koala Center for Sleep Disorders

A

“

t the cellular level, a low oxygen environment will cause normal cells to atrophy, or shrink.

With cancer cells, it causes them to proliferate, or grow,” states Doctor Willey, of the Koala Center for Sleep Disorders. These findings were brought to light recently, when two new studies found that people with sleep apnea, a serious breathing disorder that occurs when a person’s airway becomes obstructed during sleep (resulting in oxygen deprivation), have a higher risk of cancer.

Sleep apnea has been associated with a number of chronic diseases and conditions, such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, obesity, and depression; but these two studies are the first to directly tie sleep apnea to increased cancer risk in humans.

The first study, done on 5,600 patients from seven different sleep clinics in Spain, revealed that in severe obstructive sleep apnea cases, when a patient stops breathing for ten seconds or longer, for thirty episodes or more per hour, the patients had a 65 percent greater risk of developing cancer of any kind. The researchers in this study focused on measuring the hypoxemia index, which evaluates the amount of time a sleeper spent with less than 90 percent oxygen in the blood.

Of these patients, none had a cancer diagnosis when the study began. The research showed that the greater the extent of hypoxemia, or lack of oxygen during sleep, the more likely a person would receive a cancer diagnosis during the study. As time spent without oxygen increased, so, too, did cancer risk.

“This is really big news,” said Dr. Joseph Golish, the former chief of sleep medicine at the Cleveland Clinic, who was not involved in the research. “It’s the first time this has been shown, and it looks like a very solid association,” he said.

The second study followed 1,500 government workers in Wisconsin. The team at the University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health has been monitoring extensive overnight sleep studies since 1989. Their research recently revealed that people with moderate apnea (16 to 30 episodes per hour) were found to die from cancer at a rate twice that of people without Page 22 — Healthy Cells Magazine — East Valley — ­ November 2015

the sleep breathing disorder. Those in the severe category (30+ episodes per hour) perished 4.8 times greater.

In both studies, the researchers ruled out the usual risk factors for cancer, like age, smoking, alcohol use, physical activity, and weight. The association between sleep-disordered breathing and cancer remained, even after they adjusted for these factors.

“This is really striking,” said Dr. F. Javier Neito, one of the authors of the Wisconsin study. “It’s hard to imagine that something we didn’t control for is causing this.”

It has been known for years that untreated sleep apnea reduces lifespan due to the strain that is put on the heart and other body systems. Although the research linking cancer to sleep apnea requires further study before it can be as strong as the well-documented relationship between sleep apnea and cardiovascular disease, Dr. Willey states, “It is imperative that it is treated. The method of treatment may vary. But going untreated should not be an option.”

For more information about sleep apnea, Oral Appliance Therapy, and how the appliance can conquer sleep apnea, fatigue, headaches, and other health conditions, please call Koala Center for Sleep Disorders at 602-357-9845 or visit www.KoalaSleepCenters.com/Phoenix–Biltmore.

Photo credit: KatarzynaBialasiewicz/iStock

health literacy

Understanding Medical Lingo

Cathy Peterson

By Cathy Peterson, Gemini Hospice, LLC

If you or a loved one needs Hospice, we can help. Gemini Hospice is family owned and operated, with care and compassion being our main goals. Call 480-883-1353 or visit www.geminihospice.com.

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Here are some tips on how to improve your health literacy: • A sk questions. If you don’t understand something, ask your doctor to explain it in detail so you’ll know how to take care of yourself. Be sure to write down a list of questions before you go to your appointment. If you’re not sure what to ask, start with these three simple questions: What’s my main problem? What do I need to do? Why is it important for me to do this?

• R epeat care instructions back to your health care professional in your own words. This gives you a chance to clarify the information you just heard.

• A sk for written instructions before you leave the doctor’s office or other healthcare facility. Keep a pen and pad of paper with you to write down any additional instructions or care information.

• B ring a friend or loved one to appointments. They might catch important information that you may have missed.

• B ring all of your medications to your doctor’s appointment.

Ask your doctor to go over all of your medications and dosage instructions. Be sure to include any vitamins and herbal supplements.

It’s estimated only 12 percent of adults have a proficient level of health literacy, meaning 9 out of every 10 adults lack the skills needed to manage their health. Poor health literacy results in higher healthcare costs, more frequent hospitalizations, and decreased use of preventative services. Your doctor or health care provider may be responsible for explaining your health information, but it’s your responsibility to ask questions, and to tell them when you do not understand.

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f you have ever left your doctor’s office feeling confused by some of the jargon that was used, or wishing you would have asked more questions, don’t worry — you’re not alone. Problems with health literacy affect millions of Americans. Even people with good literacy skills can have low health literacy skills.

Health literacy is the degree to which individuals have the capacity to obtain, process, and understand basic health information and services needed to make appropriate health decisions. Health literacy is important because it affects one’s ability to take action on their health. Those who are health literate are more likely going to be better at following their doctor’s care instructions, filling out medical forms, finding a doctor, interacting with health care professionals, understanding certain medical terminology, and asking the right questions.

Health literacy also includes numeracy skills. For example, calculating cholesterol and blood sugar levels, measuring medications, and understanding nutrition labels all require math skills. Choosing between health plans or comparing prescription drug coverage requires calculating premiums, copays, and deductibles.

In addition to basic literacy skills, health literacy requires knowledge of health topics. People with limited health literacy often lack knowledge or have misinformation about the body, as well as the nature and causes of disease. Without this knowledge, they may not understand the relationship between lifestyle factors, such as diet and exercise, and various health outcomes.

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November 2015 — East Valley — ­ Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 23

embrace life

Make Time to Find the Roses

By Kalen Dorson, Win Win Fire Teams

I

t doesn’t matter who you are, every single person has only a set amount of time on this rock we call home. It’s a fact that we may try to ignore until we have to accept it, but no matter what, it’s always true. The question then becomes, “What are we going to do with our time here?” Are you taking the time to smell the roses in your life?

Not every day will have sunny skies and a gentle breeze, but I believe each of us has a responsibility to make the most out of what we have.

“Today is the youngest you will ever be. Live like it.” Too many people spend their time not doing what they love to do — and not enjoying life as much as they could — and that’s a shame.

Finding the silver lining, or a gold nugget, in every situation can be hard to do (a silver lining being something good; a gold nugget being a lesson learned). There are times that everything is fine, and others when “everything” is going poorly, but there is always something good to be gained from a situation. So often, we do not appreciate what we have until it’s gone, but being grateful for our health when we aren’t sick, or just glad for the family or friends that support us in hard times — these are some of the little things that we should take the time to admire.

Most of the time, the difference between being grateful or grumpy is perspective. Alphonse Karr once said, “Some people grumble that roses have thorns; I am grateful that thorns have roses.” There is another quote that fits perfectly, “The pessimist may be right in the long run, but the optimist has more fun along the way.” Being the cup-half-full person can make the difference in finding the roses in life.

Some people claim that they are too old to do what they want to do, or some don’t manage to enjoy what they have until later in life, but age isn’t really a factor in this situation. “How old would you be if you didn‘t know how old you were?” is another great quote. There is physical age, and then there is mental age, which is what really counts. It’s always a good time to find joy in life. While appreciating the little things is half the battle, the other half is doing things that make you happy. Whatever it is, go do it! Not all roses lie on the beaten path; in fact, most lie by the wayside until someone decides to go find them.

We live in a world filled with wonder and splendor, despite how small and humble some of it is. When we take the time to seek out and appreciate the little things, we can fill our lives with joy and an atti-

tude of gratitude. Though at times it may seem there are only thorns blocking our path, there is always a rose that you can stop and enjoy.

Don’t be afraid to step away from the issues and stress, and take time to enjoy life…and stop to smell the roses.

Mention this article when you call our office and receive a free ½ hour consultation with a Win Win business coach. Keith Dorson can be reached at 480-890-0100, by email at kdorson@winwinfireteams.com, or visit www.winwinfireteams.com. “You’ll be amazed at your results.”

Photo credit: GlobalStock/iStock

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Page 24 — Healthy Cells Magazine — East Valley — ­ November 2015

quality care

Who Is a Caregiver?

Submitted by Sheriolyn Curry, Mdiv, CSA, Comfort Keepers

Sheriolyn Curry, Mdiv, CSA

T

here are many jobs in life that are narrowly explained by one title. However, some job titles are not so easily definable, and don’t fully represent the person who does it.

There are the typical examples: doctors, attorneys, teachers, construction workers, and landscapers. As an opposite, being a caregiver can encompass the description of several people.

A caregiver can be anyone who is the spouse, family member, or non-relative from an outside agency, who provides care and assistance for someone who is unable to care for themselves. Caregivers can derive from different sources; nonetheless, the assistance provided is vital to the person-in-need’s well being. Whether you are a family or non-family caregiver, is it EXTREMELY important that you take care of yourself, as well as the client. We are reminded of this on every commercial airline flight: you are told that in the event of an emergency, and the cabin experiences air pressure decompression, oxygen masks will drop down and, “If you are traveling with a child or someone who requires assistance, secure YOUR mask FIRST, and then assist the other person.” We hear it mostly on airplanes, but this adage rings true in everyday life, as well!

When paid and unpaid caregivers do not take care of themselves, they invite the inevitable condition of “Caregiver Burnout” to manifest in our life. Like any other disease or condition, it definitely has warning signs and symptoms: • Withdrawing from your family and friends • E xperiencing a loss of interest in the activities that you previously enjoyed • H aving an unexplainable “blue” feeling, or being unusually irritable, helpless, or hopeless • Having unexplained changes in your appetite, your weight, or both • Getting sick much more often than you usually would • Experiencing suicidal/homicidal feelings for the client/yourself • Feeling physically and/or emotionally exhausted • Excessively using or abusing alcohol and/or sleeping medications Thankfully, experiencing caregiver burnout has many helpful solutions to alleviate the problem! Try these: • F ind a family member, friend, or professional that you feel comfortable speaking to, and “just talk” about your feelings.

• W hen asking for help from others, set realistic expectations of what that “help” looks like. Does that mean sitting with the person while you run errands? Or running your errands for you?

• U tilizing “personal respite” time. Is that sitting with the person while you relax for a couple of hours? Possibly, taking the time to do something that you truly enjoy, if you are employed as a non-family caregiver, when you are not a work.

• K now your limits, and respect those limits! Know what you can and cannot handle.

• Educate yourself on the client’s issue by doing some research (especially if a lack of knowledge with the client creates your stress).

• G et adequate sleep, and try your best to eat healthy and exercise when possible, even if the exercise is nothing more than a way to increase your heart rate and clear your mind by going on a walk.

•L astly, allow yourself to process and experience your own feelings, and know that having these feelings doesn’t make you good or bad, they make you…human! How you positively deal with those feelings is ALWAYS the most important factor.

For all caregivers, whether you are currently a caregiver, or you find yourself as a caregiver in the future, please remember… if you are taking care of a child or someone who requires assistance, secure YOUR well being FIRST, and then assist the other person.

Comfort Keepers of Chandler provides all levels of care, and a wide variety of services. Caregivers are certified, and have ongoing training to give them the all the skills to be the best caregiver they can be. For additional information, call 480-659-9201, visit www.comfortkeepers.com, or email chandler@comfortkeepers.com.

Se habla español.

Richelle Hulett-Ivy, MBA, MAED/AET, is the new General Manager of Comfort Keepers-Chandler. Richelle’s customer-facing and management experience includes over 20 years in Social Work and Education. She relocated to Arizona from Illinois seven years ago, and has a heart for helping others.

Resources available upon request.

Photo credit: monkeybusinessimages/iStock November 2015 — East Valley — ­ Healthy Cells Magazine — Page 25

medicare and open enrollment

Finding the Right Plan Patty Vieira

By Patty Vieira, Insurance Resources, LLC

F

all is upon us, and it’s time for the Medicare Annual Enrollment Period! This is the time of year when Medicare beneficiaries can review their current coverage and view other options. Insurance companies usually change their benefits each year, and what may have been a good choice for 2015 isn’t necessarily your best choice for the coming year.

The Medicare Annual Enrollment period is from October 15th to December 7th. This is your golden opportunity to rid yourselves of any decisions you made last year that you were not happy with.

From year to year, things can change for you — both financially and medically — and this is the time to make any adjustments you’d like to make to meet your current needs.

Insurance brokers are licensed agents, and if they specialize in Medicare products, they will be your most unbiased resources.

With multiple types of plans and companies to offer, the goal of an insurance professional should be to make sure you are in a plan that is well suited for you. They are contracted with many carriers, and have many different types of plans. While no one knows what the future holds, a true professional will try to look at your current situation, and see what may work well for you.

Physicians are rarely contracted with all companies. Having an insurance professional research your particular doctors and medications, with the various carriers, helps them find the plan that will be in your best interest. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve arrived at an appointment, and when the potential client realizes how many different companies I can research, I see the relief flooding through their faces.

During open enrollment, there are many community meetings available throughout the valley. While they are very informative about that particular plan and company, there is no ability to really sit down with the agent to talk about your particular individual needs. You may have questions or conditions you are not comfortable discussing in public. Having the private one on one meeting gives you the freedom to ask questions about your unique situation, along with checking which plans your physicians accept that may work even better for you.

Overall, a true professional has your best interest at heart. Medicare makes sure that agents are compensated equally amongst the insurance companies. With multiple companies to offer a client, and the compensation being the same, you can feel good that their recommendation is truly for your benefit. When shopping for a Medicare plan, ask them how many companies they have available. The more they have, the better chance you have of finding a plan that will work very well for you.

Have questions about Individual or Medicare Insurance? Call Patty Vieira, an Independent Insurance Agent with 28 years of experience. She specializes in simplifying Medicare Insurance plans and quotes, and finding the right plan to meet the unique needs for each client. Call: 480-220-7233, email: pattyjvieira@gmail.com, or visit www.insurancebypatty.com.

Photo credit: kupicoo/iStock

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Page 26 — Healthy Cells Magazine — East Valley — ­ November 2015

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