Living 50+
Special supplement to
Herald-Citizen, Sunday, April 26, 2015
2 — HERALD-CITIZEN, Cookeville, Tenn. — www.herald-citizen.com — Sunday, April 26, 2015
LIVING 50+
Ombudsman program a voice for those who have none By LAURA MiLiTANA HERALD-CITIZEN Staff
COOKEVILLE — A large number of Baby Boomers — the generation born during the demographic Post–World War II baby boom between the years 1946 and 1964 — are turning 65 every day. And they have a large, confusing maze to navigate when it comes to getting the necessary services. This is where the Aging Services for the Upper Cumberland comes in, offering a number of free services to help make the process easier — and provides a voice for those in long-term care through the Ombudsman program. “That Ombudsman program itself is an advocacy program for residents of long-term care facilities,” Marie Ferran with Aging Services of the Upper Cumberland said. “It’s been around since 1978.” Ferran has been with the agency going on 31 years and as an attorney, is the supervisor of the program, and has acted as the Ombudsman. Kim Fowler is the new district long-term care Ombudsman. “The things people learn in the program is that the long-term care Ombudsman program is different than other Ombudsman programs,” she said. “It’s resident-centered, resident-focused...they learn about the rights that residents have, state and federal laws that protect residents, how people pay for long-term care, advanced directives and end-of-life decision making.” The training takes place over three days, set for May 6-8, at the Aging Services of the Upper Cumberland offices in the Upper Cumberland Development District. “The not-speaking up thing is that these volunteers in the Ombudsman program are voices for the residents for those who may not otherwise have a voice,” Ferran said. “There are 10,000 Baby Boomers a day turning 65 — and that trend is going to continue for many years.”
Ty Kernea | Herald-Citizen
Marie Ferran, left, executive director of Aging Services for the Upper cumberland, speaks with Lane Spivey, receptionist at UcDD, about the ombudsman program.
Medical technology is getting better and better, allowing us to live longer. “The realm of financing long-term care can be dark and mysterious, and because I’ve been doing it for 31 years, I have a pretty good understanding of the rules and regulations on what the state requires in order to help pay for the care under the See Voice, Page 4
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HERALD-CITIZEN, Cookeville, Tenn. — www.herald-citizen.com — Sunday, April 26, 2015 — 3
LIVING 50+ Cookeville Senior Center focuses on health, wellness By BRiTTANY STovAll HERALD-CITIZEN Staff
COOKEVILLE — Some might say it’s not only a senior center, but an all-around “health and wellness center” too. Evidence-based health and wellness programs are a major focus at the Cookeville Senior Center, according to director Maxine Frasier. The Area Agency on Aging and Tennessee Commission on Aging and Tennessee Health Department “are all becoming aware of the benefits that we could get by teaching these evidence-based programs,” she said, and have been encouraging senior centers to offer such programs as a statewide preventitive effort. “It’s proven even 15 minutes a day improves your health,” Frasier said. And those benefits “have had to go through clinical studies, they’ve had to be published and they’ve had to have peer reviews.” One of those evidence-based programs is a series of falls prevention classes, “Stepping On” Falls, that “has been proven to reduce falls by 31 percent.”
Classes are limited to 15 people so instructors can give better attention to each individual. During the course, there’s a physical therapist on hand for three sessions, a pharmacist for another and also an optometrist. “We’re looking at all the things that contribute to falls, whether it’s your vision, the medications you’re taking, or maybe you’re not strong enough or don’t have good balance,” Frasier said. “The physical therapist is teaching us simple exercises to do that will strengthen your ankles and shins.” There is also a mobility expert who will assist attendees in learning how to best walk up and down stairs with their canes. One class may also head to Walnut Park and practice walking over uneven terrain, paying attention to anything that may cause falls. “It’s wonderful,” Frasier said. Another class is Tai Chi for Arthritis that is “really good for flexibility and balance,” Frasier said. The exercises can be performed in a chair or by standing up, but are See Cookeville, Page 5
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4 —HERALD-CITIZEN, Cookeville, Tenn. — www.herald-citizen.com — Sunday, April 26, 2015
LIVING 50+
Police offer tips to protect from scams By TRACEY HACKETT HERALD-CITIZEN Staff
COOKEVILLE — Anyone of any age can be susceptible to the tactics of scammers, but senior citizens are frequently the targets of potential frauds. Scammers may work alone or in groups, but their intention is singular — to play on the emotions of another to fraudulently deprive that targeted person of their rightful assets or money.
“These criminals have no morals because they usually target the people who can least afford it. They specifically target folks they think they can easily con,” said Lt. Carl Sells, a detective at the Cookeville Police Department. He has investigated various reports of scams in the local community, some of which have swindled residents out of thousands or even hundreds of thousands of dollars. “Scammers go to a great deal of trouble
VOICE: Ombudsman program helps those who need help From Page A2 CHOICES program,” she said. “It’s pretty complex.” Working in a nursing home is a tough job. “You know that folks in nursing homes are frail and disabled and it can be hard to go into a facility week after week and do what these volunteers do,” she said. “Thank God for them. They may be the only face these people see on a regular basis.” Other services offered include legal assistance, which includes help in advance directives, document preparation, helping with
the CHOICES Medicaid applications, assisting with debt and a lot more. “We want to help the family navigate the system,” she said. She also wants to help the public by being available to speak to groups about these topics. “This agency is available for public education programs anytime,” she said. Those interested in volunteering in the Ombudsman program or other services provided by the Aging Services of the Upper Cumberland can call Ferran at 931-4324210.
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to make themselves look legitimate, so the victims of their scams don’t even suspect they are giving money to something that’s of a criminal nature until it’s already too late,” Lt. Sells said. One of the most common scams that targets senior citizens is fraudulent handymen who collect payment for services that are never completed. Senior citizens, some of whom may be homebound and don’t want to burden their caregivers with added home repair costs, are especially susceptible to this type of scam, Lt. Sells said. He offers six ways to protect against this type of scam: • Make sure the offer is for a service that’s needed before agreeing to it; • Ask the potential service provider for references; • Ask for time — even a day or two — to consider the offer; • Consult a trusted outside party before agreeing to an offer; • If the service provider is hired, don’t be afraid to ask to see his or her receipts; • And when in doubt, don’t agree to an
up-front payment. Various telephone and email scams have also been perpetrated in the community. In general, Lt. Sells said, if an offer sounds too good to be true, it probably is. When in doubt pass it up, and call the police department or sheriff’s department to report any suspicious offers you receive. “While we may not know every single scam that may be encountered, we know about a great many of them because, unfortunately, we’ve had to investigate incidents of them happening in our community,” Lt. Sells said. Reporting suspicious consumer offers not only helps protect the reporting individual from becoming a scam victim, it also helps the police department better protect the community because it provides a more accurate representation of the possible scams being perpetrated in the community. To report potential scams or for more information about scamming, call the Cookeville Police Department at 5262125 or the Putnam County Sheriff’s Department at 528-8484.
HERALD-CITIZEN, Cookeville, Tenn. — www.herald-citizen.com — Sunday, April 26, 2015 — 5
LIVING 50+
COOKEVILLE: Seniors focus on health, wellness From Page A3 never performed from sitting on the floor. Also taught at the center through the UT Extension Service and county health department are Take Charge of Diabetes, Cooking for Diabetes and Walking with Ease. Apparently, the “newer” senior generation is less interested in social and recreational type of activities and more interested in exercise and health. “This new set of seniors is a little different than what we’re accustomed to dealing with,” according to Frasier. “They’re interested in travel and health.” Seniors can also find themselves engaged in a variety of activities like “brain” games, dance classes, yoga or participating in educational courses, among many others at the Cookeville Senior Center. For a schedule of classes and activities, call (931) 5269318 or visit cookevilleseniorcenter.org. The Cookeville Senior Center, which accepts individuals age 50 and older, is located at 186 S. Walnut Ave.
Brittany Stovall | Herald-Citizen
Clockwise from left, Anna Dobbs, Jo-Nelda Stamps, James Harvey “Butch” Dobbs and Sharon Sharpe play a card game at the Cookeville Senior Center on April 21, 2015.
6 — HERALD-CITIZEN, Cookeville, Tenn. — www.herald-citizen.com — Sunday, April 26, 2015
LIVING 50+
Tips for caring for Alzheimer’s patients By MEGAN TROTTER HERALD-CITIZEN Staff
UPPER CUMBERLAND — Caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s can be a stressful and frustrating experience for all involved. The one with the disease can become confused and annoyed at their family’s lack of understanding about what he or she is trying to communicate. Meanwhile the family can become upset that their loved one does not remember how to do simple things. “An Alzheimer’s patient has a different since of reality than we do,” said Amanda Barlow, Cumberlands area director for Alzheimer’s Tennessee. “It’s hard for us, as a caregiver, not to want to correct them every time.” However, to reduce stress on everyone involved, Barlow says, caregivers need to do just that. “We have to stay in that reality, and not try to put them in ours,” she said. “We have to meet them where they are. I think that’s the biggest thing that caregivers should know — to meet their
loved ones where they are. Because the person with Alzheimer’s disease can’t meet us where we are.” She gives the example of a mother who used to love to bake. “She might have been able to make a certain recipe then, but now may not be able to understand that what she thinks is a cup of sugar is actually a cup of salt. They look the same,” Barlow said. “Her kids may say, ‘Mom, you’ve done that your whole life. You’ve made that cake every Easter.’ But you know what? Mom may not be able to tell the difference anymore because sugar, salt and flour, they’re all white. She may need help now.” This idea of meeting the person where they are is the heart of Alzheimer’s Tennessee’s 10 “Absolutes of Alzheimer’s Care” for caregivers: • Never argue, instead agree • Never reason, instead divert • Never shame, instead distract • Never lecture, instead reassure • Never say “remember,” instead reminisce
• Never say “I told you,” instead repeat • Never say you can’t, instead do what you can • Never command or demand, instead ask or model • Never consdescend, instead encourage and praise • Never force, instead reinforce The key is to cut down on conflicts, which helps to reduce stress and frustration for everyone involved. “Alzheimer’s disease is not a cookiecutter disease. It’s a disease that you have to tailor the care per individual,” Barlow said. “The underlying issues are the same — they may have issues with wandering, with language, with daily living skills, with driving, with socalization. All of those issues are the same, but how we tend to that as a caregiver is different.” Alzheimer’s Tennessee helps families find the resources they need to cope with caring for a loved one — whether that is tips and suggestions to help allieviate problems, support groups, or respite care. The Cumberlands office is located
at 1459 Interstate Dr., Suite 211, in Cookeville and can be reached at 931526-8010. They work one-on-one with families to help find what they need in order to best care for their loved one with Alzheimer’s. “A family whose loved one has just been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s doesn’t want to run all over the place trying to find resources,” Barlow said. “That’s what we’re here for.” For more information, about Alzheimer’s Tennessee, visit www.alztennessee.org or www.facebook.com/AlzTNCumberlands.
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Herald-Citizen 526-9715
HERALD-CITIZEN, Cookeville, Tenn. — www.herald-citizen.com — Sunday, April 26, 2015 — 7
LIVING 50+
Meaningful employment through SCSEP By AMY DAVIS HERALD-CITIZEN Staff
MONTEREY — It’s a way to get out of the house. To socialize. To earn a little extra income. And for retirees like 74-year-old Ann Watson of Monterey, being part of the Senior Community Service Employment Program is all that and more. “It’s really worked well for me,” said Watson, who works 20 hours a week at the Monterey Senior Center through SCSEP, a community service and work-based job training program for senior citizens. “It helps with our expenses — plus, we mix and mingle with people, which is good.” Watson comes to the senior center four days a week, Monday through Thursday, doing what she can to assist director Sandra Johnson with weekly activities for members. “We have a great program here,” she said. “I help with planning, decorating, cooking — a lot of different things.” The SCSEP program is administered locally through the Upper Cumberland Human Resources Agency, and seniors earn minimum wage — $7.25 per hour — for their contributions. Participants must be at least 55, unemployed and have a family income of no more than 125 percent of the federal poverty level. “It’s been around about 50 years,” Charles West, older worker program manager with UCHRA, said of the program. “The purpose is to help eligible individuals get training and employment.”
Ann Watson enjoys greeting Monterey Senior Center members through her work with the Senior Community Service Employment Program. Ty Kernea | Herald-Citizen
Watson got started with SCSEP three years ago with the opening of the new Monterey Depot Museum, where she worked for two and a half years before transferring to the senior center. She says she enjoys the atmosphere and is happy to be a part of it. “Oh, yes,” she said. “Everyone is really nice, and they’re all retired. This is the place they come to socialize, and we plan things for them like bingo, trivia and trips. On Wednesdays, we have a covered dish luncheon, and they bring great food!” Anyone interested in learning more about the SCSEP program should call 520-9624. “We can do a pre-application with them over the phone,” West said. He noted that the local program has all 13 of its slots filled at the moment, but applicants are added to a waiting list.
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“As we have openings, we contact these folks,” West said. He’s seen plenty of positive outcomes. “People gain employment, for one thing — people who need it,” he said. And that need could be for a variety of reasons. “Our people have all kinds of barriers,”
West said. “It could be education or it could be a disability or even ethnicity. We don’t discriminate — we help anybody who needs our help.” Even when it’s a person’s first time in the workplace. “We’ve got people who were married — who never had to work — and when their spouse died, they were between a rock and a hard place,” West said. “But they were able to come in, get training and be paid for it while they were trained. It helped them to subsist, and then they got into employment.” He pointed out that SCSEP prepares seniors for work in such places as non-profit agencies and government offices. “Once we sit down and talk to a person and find out what they’re interested in, we can go to the agencies and see what we can put together for them,” West said. Watson is happy to be part of the program and can’t say enough good things about the Monterey Senior Center. The best part? “Just associating with the people,” she said. “They’re so sweet.”
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8 — HERALD-CITIZEN, Cookeville, Tenn. — www.herald-citizen.com — Sunday, April 26, 2015
LIVING 50+
Volunteering at the museum COOKEVILLE — A warm welcome awaits visitors at the Cookeville Depot and History Museums. Even when museum staff is busy or away, a docent is on hand to make sure visitors are met with a friendly greeting. Docents are educated volunteers who spend time in Cookeville’s museums, and for seniors and retirees it can be a way of offering their talents to help museum staff and remain involved in the community. “Our docents are very valuable to us,” Museums Director Judy Duke said. “They allow our staff to be flexible, so when we get calls about potential donations or an antique store calls us to come look at something, we can go and do that.” Docents also help with special events and some even take on larger projects for the museums. But volunteering at the museums has plenty to give back to those willing to donate their time, according to History Museum Docent and retired teacher Linda Henderson.
“I have learned a lot from the people who come into the museum,” she said. Henderson has been volunteering at the museum for about seven years now. She and her husband moved to Cookeville from Florida after a 38-year career as a teacher and principal. Her time spent in the museum has taught her a lot about the area where she and her husband have chosen to retire. “I have always loved history and I love meeting so many interesting people and hearing their stories,” Henderson said. “I am amazed at people who can recall so many things about their families and community.” Her experiences at the History Museum even inspired Henderson to do some research on her own family. Over at the Depot Museum, Docent Ron Allison, who is a Putnam County native, enjoys the opportunity to share his own train stories with visitors. Allison worked for 35 years at United States Steel Corporation, which used
trains for moving stock. “I was never really that interested in them then, but now I enjoy getting to talk with people about trains,” he said. “Lots of people come in because they are interested in trains, and we have had some people who come in because they are interested in depots and want to know about the building.” Any of that is good conversation for Allison, who has been volunteering at the Depot Museum for about five years — especially since many depot visitors have their own interesting stories to share. “(At the Depot) I have met people from England, the Netherlands, some students from Japan, and of course we have people come in who are from all over the U.S. and from Canada,” he said. “Plus I enjoy helping in my community as well.” Docents do other valuable work for the community and museums as well. Many become involved in larger projects, like Docent Joann White who has worked to generate an extensive log of museum
items and acts as the Volunteer Collections Manager. Docents typically work at the museums in three-hour shifts. A docent chairman helps maintain the volunteer schedule. Currently, each museum has 10 regular docents along with a list of substitutes. “We are always looking for more,” Duke said. “We can always use people who are willing to help.” For more information about volunteering with either of the museums, contact Duke at 931-520-5455.
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Herald-Citizen 526-9715
HERALD-CITIZEN, Cookeville, Tenn. — www.herald-citizen.com — Sunday, April 26, 2015 — 9
LIVING 50+
A financial plan helps keep long-term goals in sight Many of us are familiar with the expression, “failing to plan is planning to fail.” As an Agent with New York Life, I can assure you that — when it comes to financial goals and objectives — this old adage still rings true. In fact, it may be more relevant than ever. It isn’t always easy for some Americans to make financial headway. With pensions in decline and interest rates near historic lows, it usually takes persistence and sound planning in order to get ahead. Not sure how to begin? That’s okay — it’s easy to become overwhelmed if you think about all your needs at once. Instead,
try taking it one step at a time, starting with the basics: Build an emergency fund — No matter where you are in life, it’s important to set aside 8-10 months of living expenses. You don’t have to do it all at once, but every dollar you save today is a dollar you won’t have to borrow if something unexpected happens. Protect your home and family — Most of us have people who depend on us to keep a roof over their heads and food on their plates. That’s a big responsibility, but it’s one life insurance can help you meet — even if something tragic takes you away.
Tammie Ragsdale, Agent New York Life Insurance Company 320 E. Broad Street, Suite 1B Cookeville, TN 38501 Bus. 931-265-4797 tragsdale@ft.newyorklife.com www.tammieragsdale.com The Company You Keep©
You can start with an affordable term life plan at first, and then add more coverage as your needs and budget grow. Prepare for major expenses like college — As a parent or grandparent, you naturally want the best for your loved ones. Now’s the time to start a college or wedding fund so they won’t have to go into debt to make their dreams for the future come true. Get ready for retirement — There are plenty of ways to set aside money for retirement: 401(k)s, IRAs, and fixed deferred annuities* just to name a few. But they all have one thing in common — the sooner
you start, the better off you’ll be in the long run. Try to increase your contributions over time — perhaps 1% with each raise — or, if you are age 50 or older, look into some of the ‘catch-up’ provisions that may allow you to contribute even more. While the recession forced many of us to take a step back financially, it also helped refocus our attention on the things that really matter. A sound financial game plan can help us accomplish many things — but perhaps the most important is making sure we never lose sight of them again.
Andrea V. Burckhard, LUTCF New York Life Insurance Company Licensed Agent 320 E. Broad Street, Suite 1A Cookeville, TN 38501 Tel. 931-525-5433 Cel. 931-265-1959 Res. 931-526-4066 Fax 931-525-6636 avburckhard@ft.newyorklife.com www.AndreaBurckhard.com The Company You Keep©
10 — HERALD-CITIZEN, Cookeville, Tenn. — www.herald-citizen.com — Sunday, April 26, 2015
LIVING 50+ Meet The Directors
Maxine Frasier
Sandra Johnson
Baxter Senior Center
Cookeville Senior Center
Monterey Senior Center
Before retirement, I was a manager of human resources at Fleetguard, Inc. (currently Cummins Filtration). After I completed all the odd jobs that had accumulated over the years and cleaned the house from top to bottom, I decided that I was bored and wanted to go back to work in a part-time capacity. After feeling very blessed my entire life, I decided it was time to give back in some sort of service position so I prayed and asked God to point me in the direction he wanted me to go. An opening at the Algood Senior for director opened up and the rest is history. dishman To say the least I didn’t know what I was doing to begin with but decided I surely had some transferrable skills from my past work I could utilize. I tried various things and found out seniors are very willing to give feedback on what they like and don’t like. If one type activity failed, we tried another until we got it right. After thinking about my goal for the senior center I decided I wanted to make the center a home-away-from-home environment and to offer services in every area of need that an older adult may have. The Area Agency on Aging does have a list of services that are mandatory such as social activities, various educational opportunities, legal services, health screenings, physical fitness, telephone reassurance, volunteer opportunities, nutrition meals, etc. Each senior director can add their own extracurricular services and I chose to add helping seniors with additional food supplies, hygiene products, clothes, etc., in addition to monthly day trips. Working for a non-profit organization has been an eye opening experience in that a director runs a small business, has to fundraise
I am Barbara Lee and am so proud to be the director of the Baxter Senior Center. I have been active in this center since 2008 when I began attending regularly. My mother, Jean Grizzard, was an active member and a volunteer at the center at that time and encouraged me to attend and get involved. As I began to be an active member, I enjoyed the interaction with other members as we did activities and interaction with members of the Center and the City of Baxter. I was appointed to be on the Board of Directors of the Putnam County lee Senior Center as a representative from the Baxter Senior Center as our Center was a satellite of the Putnam County Senior Center. I have worked with Ms. Dixie Helms during her tenure and with Ms. Dawn Chenier as chairman of the Board of Directors and then as her assistant director. After the resignation of Ms. Chenier I was appointed by the Board of Directors to be interim director and in January of 2015 was elected as director. The attendance of the Center is continuing to grow and we are so very proud of our Center and the people of our community and area who so gracious to support the Center and our seniors. The Baxter Senior Center has grown to include more people for daily activities and community based activities. Helping older Americans with their needs is a very rewarding endeavor. Giving seniors a place to associate with their peers and community resources makes for a great feeling of accomplishment, both personally and as director. May is Older Americans Month. The objective of Baxter Senior Center is to
I am a native of Cookeville, attended Tennessee Tech, and received a B.S. Degree in Business Administration. I owned a court reporting business for 30+ years and served on the Putnam County Board of Education 14 years. Charles and I will be married 49 years in May. We have bought, renovated, and sold many houses. We have three sons and several grandchildren and great-grandchildren who bring us much happiness. Five years ago, we began talking about exercise and decided to pursue dancing since we had enjoyed that in Frasier the past. Friends told us about the Senior Center and so began the next chapter of our lives. As we attended the center, my “renovation” mind took over; I could see room for improvement; and I wanted to be a part of that work. When the Director position became available, I applied and was selected. Thanks to the technical assistance provided by Patty Ray and Judy Roberson from the Area Agency on Aging, the dedication of our qualified and caring staff, the guidance of a competent and knowledgeable Board of Directors, and the finest participants, this Center has undergone a good “renovation.” Focus is on accountability and providing evidence-based programs and fun activities. The hours are long and the challenges demanding, but I love being here. Charles enjoys the Center so much that he volunteers almost every hour I work. All activities offered at the Center from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday are free. A teacher may request a donation. We partner with Highlands Residential Services to benefit those in low income housing, with Tennessee Tech to allow students to do proj-
See Algood, Page 11
See BAxter, Page 11
Brenda Dishman
Barbara Lee
Algood Senior Center
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Always interested in the aging process, I studied gerontology at Ohio Dominican College but never actually worked in the field since I’d already made a commitment to Nationwide Insurance as their human resource manager. But after taking early retirement, I was fortunate enough to volunteer for Monterey Senior Center director Frances Allen before she retired. That time served gave me the opportunity to see how the center operated and made me want to become more involved when Frances decided to retire. Honestly, I cannot Johnson think of a better place to spend my day than with the seniors here in Monterey. And, as a cohesive team, we strive to get the word out that new members are always welcome as we continue to focus on laughing, eating, laughing, learning, laughing and fellowship. It is our goal to make our center have a family atmosphere. And leaning in that direction, I could not do what I do without the help of my husband, Bud. He cooks, lifts the heavy stuff, and simply loves this place as much as I do. Another family member, my certified therapy dog, Webster, helps most days as he has his own bed and bone in the corner of my office. For 2015, we are trying to focus more on physical activity — learning about it and doing it — to the extent that works for the individual. Together with my good friends and partners, Theresa Sheppard and Ann Watson, we just want the Monterey Senior Center to be the best place for our Monterey seniors to congregate. Membership is free for everyone 60 and over, and our hours are Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Stop by, grab a calendar, and I guarantee you’ll make a See Cookeville, Page 11 friend on your first day.
HERALD-CITIZEN, Cookeville, Tenn. — www.herald-citizen.com — Sunday, April 26, 2015 — 11
LIVING 50+ Meet The Directors
Algood From Page A10 a big portion of the working capital and wears many, many hats in service to our clients and the Area Agency on Aging. The blessings I have received from the service to older adults include seeing depressed individuals become part of a family environment, providing information that will help them in their daily lives, seeing health return to those that have had physical problems, finding various activities that make them happy and being able to touch
lives in a positive way. Last but not least the heartwarming work of wonderful individuals that takes a chunk of their time to be on the board of directors, the Upper Cumberland Quilt Festival and the many other volunteers willing to help in various capacities. The new people I have met via the senior center has touched the senior clients lives and mine, they have become friends but more like family. The road is not easy in a non-profit senior service center but it is always rewarding and worth the hard work.
Baxter From Page A10 highlight “Older Americans” during this month but not to forget them for the other 11 months of the year. Older Americans are the backbone of our community and our nation. Senior Centers work in conjunction with the community, city and state to help seniors realize their true potential in all as-
pects of their lives. The City of Baxter and Putnam County have been very helpful in our quest to be a bigger and better center so the Center can reach and help more people. Looking forward to the future, the goal is to advance the care and well-being of all seniors in our community. The future looks bright for the seniors of our great community, city, county and state.
Cookeville From Page A10 ects and service with us, and with local businesses to provide a work place for those who are restricted to light duty because of an injury. We serve as a food distribution center for the Gleaning Project through UCDD and for other food donated. My vision for 2015 for this Center is that it will be filled with participants enjoying activities which promote physical and men-
tal well being, personal independence, and overall quality of life. Strong community partnerships will exist to ensure that needs are met. We will be known as a learning center. We’re growing; we’re changing; we’re having fun! Address, 186 S. Walnut Avenue; Phone, 931-526-9318; Website, cookevilleseniorcenter.org. We’re growing; we’re changing; we’re having fun! Please come and join us.
12 —HERALD-CITIZEN, Cookeville, Tenn. — www.herald-citizen.com — Sunday, April 26, 2015
LIVING 50+
Tips for grandparents helping to raise children
METRO — As retirement age approaches, many older adults envision themselves downsizing and moving to a quaint community to enjoy their golden years in as relaxing a fashion as possible. However, for a growing number of seniors, their retirement years are being spent helping to raise grandchildren. United States Census data from 2010 indicates 4.9 million American children are being raised solely by their grandparents. Many grandparents provide part-time care when their older children have to move back home with their families, as roughly 13 million children are now living in homes with their grandparents. Although being raised by grandparents may not be the ideal situation for all parties involved, such situations are a necessity for many families. Seniors who are once again thrown into the caregiver arena may need a crash course in childcare or a few pointers on parenting in the modern age: Get the right equipment Children certainly require a lot of gear, more than grandparents likely used when raising their own children. Certain safety requirements are in place to safeguard young children, and that often means investing in new cribs, car seats, high chairs, and other items. Grandparents should resist the temptation to use old items they may have kept in storage, as such items may no longer be safe and could put grandchildren at risk for injury. Gather important documents Grandparents should keep pertinent documents in one easily accessible place in their homes should an emergency arise. These include birth certificates, health immunization records, death certificates (if the child’s parents are deceased), dental records, school papers, citizenship papers, and proof of income and assets.
Speak with an attorney Lawyers can help grandparents wade through legal arrangements, such as filing for custody, guardianship or adoption. Options vary depending on where petitioners live, but lawyers can provide peace of mind to grandparents concerned about their grandkids’ futures. Investigate financial assistance Seniors may not earn the income they once did and may be on assistance programs or living off of retirement savings. Grandparents who find themselves caring for a child may be eligible for financial assistance. The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families is a joint federal and state program that can provide need-based financial assistance. The AARP or the organization GrandFamilies may be able to put grandparents in touch with financial advisors in their areas. Contact schools and daycare centers School-aged children will need to be enrolled in school. Grandparents should contact the department of education where they live to learn about local school systems, especially when grandkids are moving in with their grandparents. Some grandparents can qualify for free or lowcost daycare, and such programs can be discussed with local Social Services offices. Enrollment in school or daycare can provide grandparents with much-needed free time during the day. Find emotional support Taking care of grandchildren is a fulltime job. At times, grandparents may feel stressed or out of sorts. Having a strong support system available can help grandparents work through the peaks and valleys of this new and unexpected stage in life. Church- or community center-based counseling services may be available. Grandparents also can check with their healthcare providers to determine if counseling or therapy sessions are covered.
LAFEVER INSURANCE AGENCY Independent Agents Located in the Town Plaza 727 S. Jefferson Ave. Morris, Daniel Agents Telephone 931.526.3377 Fax: 931.526.3377
Cookeville, TN 38501 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Monday - Friday
Caring for grandchildren is a life-changing event. Although it can be fulfilling, it also requires a lot of energy and commitment.
HERALD-CITIZEN, Cookeville, Tenn. — www.herald-citizen.com — Sunday, April 26, 2015 — 13
LIVING 50+
How to avoid growing bored in retirement METRO — From the moment young men and women first walk into the office for their first day as a working professional until the day they officially retire, the notion of planning for retirement is never far from their minds. But when the day to hang up the briefcase and donate all those business suits arrives, some retirees wonder what to do next. Some retirees know exactly how they will spend their days when they no longer have to work, while others who decide to play it by ear may find themselves battling boredom. For those among the latter group, it’s important to understand that many retirees find themselves bored once they no longer have to focus on a career. Jobs keep men and women busy and provide a sense of purpose in their lives, so it’s understandable that retirees feel bored once those jobs are no longer a part of their lives. But just because you no longer have an office to go to every day does not mean life cannot be as fulfilling or even more fulfilling than it was when you were still working.
You just need to find something to avoid succumbing to retirement boredom. • Work part-time. Though it might seem odd to start working right after you retire, a part-time job can provide the type of structure you have grown accustomed to without all of the responsibility that comes with a full-time career. Part-time jobs can range from consultancy work that makes use of your professional experience to something entirely different like landscape maintenance at a nearby golf course that gets you out of the house and enjoying the warmer seasons. Whichever you choose, make sure it’s something you find fun and interesting. • Embrace a new hobby. Working professionals often say they wish they had time to pursue a hobby. Now that you are retired, you have all the time in the world to do just that. • Get in shape. If retirement boredom has started to negatively affect your mood, one great way to conquer your boredom and im- Embracing a new hobby is one way for recently retired men and women to prove your mood at the same time is to start avoid growing bored during retirement. exercising.
14 —HERALD-CITIZEN, Cookeville, Tenn. — www.herald-citizen.com — Sunday, April 26, 2015
LIVING 50+
Menopause diet: What to eat and what to avoid METRO — Healthcare professionals note that the foods women eat can affect how they feel during menopause. Some foods may reduce or eliminate troublesome symptoms, while others actually may make conditions worse. Weight gain, hot flashes, lack of energy, and mood swings are some of the more widely known symptoms of menopause, which is the time when a woman’s menstrual cycle permanently ceases due to the natural depletion of ovarian follicles and oocytes. Elevated follicle stimulating hormone, or FSH, and low estrogen levels are consistent with menopause and can cause any number of symptoms. While hormone replacement therapy is one option, women may find that changing their diets is enough to make them feel better and may even help them reduce their risk for certain diseases and better manage some of the negative side effects of menopause. Osteoporosis Menopausal women are at a greater risk
for osteoporosis, a condition in which bones become weaker and more brittle. Increasing one’s intake of foods rich in calcium and vitamin D can help. Calcium-rich foods include low-fat yogurt, sardines, broccoli, and firm tofu. Weight gain It’s possible to gain some weight during menopause. Data from the International Menopause Society and the Mayo Clinic point to decreases in metabolism as the source of menopausal weight gain. Women should cut back on fatty foods and trim any visible fats from the foods they cook. Eating foods high in complex sources of fiber can help a person to feel full on less food. Mood swings Hormone fluctuations may lead to mood swings and feelings of anxiety or depression. Improve mental well-being by increasing intake of foods rich in B vitamins and omega-3 fatty acids. Consuming whole grains, lentils, flaxseed, and oily fish can Certain foods can have a positive or negative impact on menopausal symphelp. toms.
HERALD-CITIZEN, Cookeville, Tenn. — www.herald-citizen.com — Sunday, April 26, 2015 — 15
LIVING 50+
Medication safety tips for children and adults Care must be taken to manage prescriptions
METRO — Prescription and over-thecounter medications can save lives and help people of all ages manage certain conditions. When used correctly and under the guidance of a physician, medications are largely safe. It’s when medicines are used off-label, shared or taken in error that reactions and injury can occur. The American Academy of Pediatrics and their Healthy Children Organization warns that more than 7,000 children visit hospital emergency rooms every year for problems related to medication errors. Children are not the only ones in danger. Adults can make mistakes with their medications as well. For example, seniors who may be managing several different types of medications can inadvertently cause dangerous drug interactions by mixing the wrong pills. Pharmacists work diligently to help prevent medication errors. However, the general public can also do their part. The American Society of Health-System Pharmacists and the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy offer these medication safety tips. • When a new medication is prescribed, ask the doctor to explain more about it, including its intended purpose and any common side effects to be expected. • Make sure your doctor knows about all the medications you are taking, including non-prescription products, herbal remedies, dietary supplements, and vitamins. Some medications do not mix with
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seemingly innocent ingredients. Keep a running list of any medicines you take so you can easily and accurately share this information with your physician. • Question anything that you do not understand. Check the prescription for dosing information. For refills, make sure the refill information conforms to the original prescription strength. • Fill all prescriptions at the same pharmacy and develop a rapport with the pharmacist so that potential drug interactions will be flagged. Pharmacists are well versed in medications and may be able to inform you as to the safety or risk involved in taking an over-the-counter product at the same time that you are on a prescription. • Many pills look the same. If you are confused and taking multiple medications, keep medications in the original packaging and double-check the labels before taking any medications. • Use the right dosing tools. A spoon from the kitchen is not accurate for measuring out a teaspoon of medication. • If you take multiple medications, use a pillbox to keep pills organized. The box makes it easier to manage medications and serves as a reminder if you have or have not taken a medication on a given day. • Store medications as instructed on the label. The bathroom medicine cabinet may not be an ideal place to store medications, as bathrooms get damp, and that can compromise the integrity of the pills. Also, bathroom cabinets are readily accessible by all, including kids. It’s better to store drugs out of sight and reach of children. Keep dangerous medications locked away. • Routinely discard expired or unneeded Medicines play important roles in personal health. When used correctly, medications are assets, but caution should always be taken to ensure safe usage medications. and storage of any medications. Medicine take-back programs for disposal are a good way to remove medicines from the home and reduce the chance that others may accidentally take the medicine. • Consult with a doctor before beginning or ending medication.
16 —HERALD-CITIZEN, Cookeville, Tenn. — www.herald-citizen.com — Sunday, April 26, 2015