IGH - MV #187, SEPTEMBER 2021 by In Good Health: MV's Healthcare Newspaper

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SEPTEMBER 2021 • ISSUE 187

'Ready for Another One'

Joe Wilczynski of Marcy has spent most of his life running in marathons across the U.S., including every single Boilermaker race since its inception in1978. He is getting ready for one more race early in October. Story on page 7.

Alzheimer’s Special Issue NEW OB-GYN Physician Rose Antilus just moved from Long Island to Rome to work as an OB-GYN at MVHS. She said a sick relative inspired her to pursue the medical field. P. 4

Dementia Cases will Triple Worldwide by 2050 The global total of people living with dementia is projected to rise nearly three-fold

The Power of Music for Those with Dementia Atrial fibrillation: take your fluttering heart beat seriously

PEAK SEASON FOR ASTHMA ATTACKS

Cognitive Testing As we age, most of us will be tested for memory and thinking skills

CELEBRITIES IN THE NEWS

Christina Applegate Announces She Has Multiple Sclerosis

Bob Odenkirk’s ‘Small’ Heart Attack? Doctors Say All Are a Big Deal

mmy award-winning actress Christina Applegate recently revealed she is battling multiple sclerosis. She is perhaps best known for her starring roles in “Married With Children,” “Dead to Me” and “Samantha Who?” “A few months ago I was diagnosed with MS,” Applegate tweeted. “It’s been a strange journey... It’s been a tough road. But as we all know, the road keeps going. Unless some a**hole blocks it.” “As one of my friends that has MS said, 'we wake up and take the indicated action,'” Applegate continued. “And that›s what I do. So now I ask for privacy. As I go through this thing.” The cause of multiple sclerosis is unknown, but research has suggested that both environmental and genetic factors may be at play. More than 2.3 million people have MS worldwide, including several other celebrities, according to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society (NMSS). “Multiple sclerosis is a disease in which the immune system attacks the central nervous system,” explained physician Asaff Harel, who directs the Multiple Sclerosis Center at Lenox Hill Hospital in New York City. “This condition can cause a variety of symptoms and affects each indi-

vidual differently, depending on the severity and the location of injuries to the nervous system. MS is a spectrum, affecting some more severely than others.” Those diagnosed with MS typically have one of four types of the disease, according to the NMSS. The four types range in severity and progression, but there is no way to predict how the disease will unfold in a particular person. Applegate has not said which type of MS she has. This is not Applegate’s first health scare: In 2008, she had both of her breasts removed after a breast cancer diagnosis, CNN reported.

hen actor Bob Odenkirk collapsed on the set of “Better Call Saul” recently in New Mexico, fans held their breath — and obsessively checked for updates on social media — until word came that he was expected to be OK. “I had a small heart attack,” he tweeted, thanking the doctors who “knew how to fix the blockage without surgery.” Few other details about his health were available, but a small heart attack is still a big deal, said physician Donald Lloyd-Jones, president of the American Heart Association. “All heart attacks are important and have the potential to be big and possibly fatal,” he said. “So, we don›t mess around. It's not a small heart attack until we turn it into a small heart attack by appropriate treatment.” Lloyd-Jones, a cardiologist, epidemiologist and chairman of the department of preventive medicine at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine in Chicago, was not involved in Odenkirk’s treatment. But he said the mechanism of all heart attacks is basically the same: An artery is blocked and that cuts blood flow to the heart muscle. If the blockage goes on long enough, heart muscle cells start to die.

The scope of the damage depends on the location of the blockage. “If there’s a big blockage in a big artery early in its course, there’s more heart muscle at risk,” he said. “If there’s a blockage in a small side branch, far downstream, there’s less heart muscle at risk.” Typical symptoms of a heart attack include heavy pressure in the chest, often accompanied by shortness of breath, sometimes with sweating or with pain that radiates into the neck, jaw or arm, Lloyd-Jones said. “But sometimes it can be more subtle, such as suddenly feeling lightheaded or significantly fatigued.” For Lloyd-Jones, the term “small heart attack” suggests Odenkirk was fortunate to have been quickly taken to a hospital with a cardiologist who could treat the blockage, probably by running a catheter through an artery in the wrist up to the heart.

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IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • September 2021

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Will COVID-19 Ever Be Eradicated?

ould COVID-19 one day go the way of smallpox and polio? New research suggests it might be possible to beat the coronavirus with high vaccination rates and rapid responses to immunity-evading variants, the study authors said. “While our analysis is a preliminary effort, with various subjective components, it does seem to put COVID-19 eradicability into the realms of being possible, especially in terms of technical feasibility,” according to Michael Baker, professor in the department of public health at the University of Otago, Wellington, in New Zealand, and colleagues. To assess the feasibility of eliminating COVID-19, the researchers used 17 factors to compare it with two other vaccine-preventable viral diseases — smallpox and polio. Smallpox was declared eradicated in 1980 and two out of the three serotypes of poliovirus have been eradicated worldwide. The factors used for analysis included: vaccine availability; lifelong immunity; impact of public health measures; effective infection control messaging; political and public concern about the economic and social impacts of the diseases; and public acceptance of infection control measures. The investigators used a threepoint scoring system for each of the 17 factors and concluded that the feasibility of eradication was higher for COVID-19 than for polio, but lower than for smallpox. The average scores in the anal-

ysis were 2.7 (43/48) for smallpox, 1.6 (28/51) for COVID-19, and 1.5 (26/51) for polio, according to the study published online Aug. 9 in the journal BMJ Global Health. Compared to smallpox and polio, the challenges of eradicating COVID-19 include low vaccine acceptance and the emergence of more highly transmissible variants that might evade immunity, the authors noted. “Nevertheless, there are of course limits to viral evolution, so we can expect the virus to eventually reach peak fitness, and new vaccines can be formulated,” Baker and colleagues suggested in a journal news release. “Other challenges would be the high upfront costs (for vaccination and upgrading health systems), and achieving the necessary international cooperation in the face of ‘vaccine nationalism’ and government-mediated ‘antiscience aggression,’” the team noted. But they added that there is worldwide will to combat COVID-19, because the staggering health, social and economic impacts of the virus have triggered “unprecedented global interest in disease control and massive investment in vaccination against the pandemic.” This is preliminary research and more extensive in-depth investigation is needed, and the World Health Organization would need to formally review the feasibility and desirability of trying to eradicate COVID-19, the researchers explained.

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Sleep Apnea Doubles Odds for Sudden Death

leep apnea may double your risk for sudden death, according to a new study. The condition — in which a person’s airway is repeatedly blocked during sleep, causing pauses in breathing — may also increase the risk for high blood pressure, coronary artery disease and congestive heart failure, new research shows. “This [study] adds to the growing body of evidence that highlights the importance of screening, diagnosis and treatment of sleep apnea,” said physician Kannan Ramar, immediate past president of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM). Ramar, who reviewed the findings, said they underscore the importance of recognizing a widespread and often underdiagnosed condition that has become a growing public health concern. For the study, a team at Penn State University reviewed 22 studies that included more than 42,000 patients worldwide. Their review revealed that people with obstructive sleep apnea had a greater risk of dying suddenly and the risk rose as patients aged. “Our research shows this condition can be life-threatening,” principal investigator Anna Ssentongo said in a university news release. She’s an assistant professor and epidemiologist at Penn State. The repeated lapses in breathing in sleep apnea cut off oxygen supply to cells, which can result in an imbalance of antioxidants in the body. This imbalance harms cells and may speed up the aging process, leading to many health problems, the researchers said. The study authors said the findings underscore the urgency of treating sleep apnea. Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is the standard treatment for moderate to severe apnea, according to the AASM. CPAP provides a steady stream of pressurized air through a mask worn during sleep. The airflow keeps the airway open, preventing pauses in breathing while restoring normal oxygen levels. Other options include oral appliances designed to keep the airway open and, in some cases, surgery to remove tissue from the soft palate, uvula, tonsils, adenoids or tongue. Losing weight also benefits many people with sleep apnea, as does sleeping on one’s side. Generally, over-the-counter nasal strips, internal nasal dilators, and lubricant sprays reduce snoring, but AASM says there is no evidence that they help treat sleep apnea.

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Meet

Your Doctor

By Barbara Pierce

Rose Antilus, M.D.

New OB-GYN at Women’s Health Center inspired by relative to pursue medical field Q. You are board–certified in both obstetrics and gynecology, helping women throughout all stages of their lives. As a gynecologist, you specialize in women’s reproductive health. As an obstetrician, you care for women during pregnancy and deliver babies. Are there any areas of your practice you are especially drawn to? A. I enjoy both obstetrics and gynecology. Obstetrics for the most part is a happy specialty. I enjoy sharing this very unique experience with my patients. It’s such a special moment to bring a baby into the world and hand that baby to the parents, seeing their faces in this moment of joy. Q. What led to your decision to become a physician? How did you become interested in being an OB-GYN? A. When I was 12 years old, a close family member was extremely ill during her pregnancy. I can vividly remember how terrified she was when she thought she might become incapacitated and not able to care for her child. What I did not obviously fully comprehend at that time is that she had severe high blood pressure during her pregnancy, preeclampsia with severe features, and the potential life-threatening sequelae, including seizure and strokes, that can occur. My family member did recover well, but it was at that young age that I decided I wanted to become that doctor that helped her. Q. You’ve had over 15 years of practice as an OB-GYN. What achievement or contribution are you most proud of? A. I enjoy my clinical work. Also, my work in the quality of medical care has been very gratifying in that I was able to contribute to change systemically. Over the past 10 years, I’ve had the opportunity to work on various quality initiatives on the local level. For example, the safe motherhood initia-

tive—through the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists — developed and implemented safe approaches to handling obstetric emergencies, including sepsis and hypertension. These conditions are associated with maternal morbidity and mortality. Q. Should women have annual visits with you? Starting at what age and ending at what age? A. I recommend annual visits. Girls should have their first visit with a gynecologist between the ages of 13 and 15. It’s important to note that a pelvic exam will not be done unless there’s a problem that warrants a pelvic exam. Building up a relationship with your gynecologist lets a young girl, or a woman, to become more comfortable asking questions about menstruation, sexuality and so on, and provides a point of contact for any symptoms that may occur in the future. The answer is not so straightforward about when to stop having pelvic exams. Typically, the recommendation is that a pap smear may not be necessary after a woman turns 65, if she has had adequate cervical cancer screenings and is not at high risk for cervical cancer. However, there is a benefit in continuing annual gynecological exams after that age. Patients may have other gynecological problems that need to be managed, including menopausal symptoms like vaginal dryness. I recommend that women have a discussion with their gynecologist before deciding not to continue with yearly examinations.

IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • September 2021

Q. What happens during annual visits with you? A. During an annual visit, a comprehensive history is taken, including family history, screening, ex-

In the News Physician Rose Antilus has recently joined the Mohawk Valley Health System Medical Group as an obstetrician and gynecologist at the Women’s Health Center. Antilus has more than 15 years of experience in the OBGYN specialty and joins MVHS from Northwell Health, Southside Hospital in Bayshore, Suffolk County, where she worked in the OB-GYN department and served as associate director of quality. Antilus earned her medical degree and performed her OB-GYN residency at SUNY Health Science Center at Brooklyn College of Medicine in Brooklyn. She was administrative chief resident in her last year of residency. amination, counseling and immunization based on age and risk factors. For patients who are in the reproductive age group, an important component of the annual visit is to develop and discuss a reproductive life plan. Q. What do you find that women often don’t know about their bodies — what do many women do wrong that is not in our best interests? A. Many women use feminine hygiene products to cleanse their vagina. They do this due to the belief that the vagina is unclean and they don’t understand that the vagina naturally cleanses itself. Douching can actually increase the risk of infection. If there is a clear sign of infection, it is important to see your gynecologist as soon as possible. Q. You’ve recently moved to the Mohawk Valley area; how are you finding life for your family, living here? A. So far, it’s been a pleasant experience for my husband and I living in the Mohawk Valley. Our two children enjoy the outdoors and there’s no shortage of outdoor activities here. Writer’s Note: A visit to the gynecologist is recommended for an annual screening and any time a woman has concerns about symptoms such as pelvic, vulvar, and vaginal pain or abnormal bleeding from the uterus. Make an appointment to see an obstetrician if you’re pregnant or thinking of becoming pregnant. They can provide you with prenatal care and help you plan for your pregnancy. Even if a home pregnancy test confirms you’re pregnant, you still need to make an appointment with an OB-GYN. The American Pregnancy Association recommends you make an appointment with your doctor for your first prenatal visit within eight weeks of your last menstrual period.

Lifelines

Name: Rose Antilus, M.D. Birth place: Port-au-Price, Haiti Current residence: Rome Education: Medical degree and OBGYN residency at SUNY Health Science Center at Brooklyn College of Medicine in Brooklyn. Served as administrative chief resident in her last year of residency. Afﬁliations: Faxton St. Luke’s Healthcare, St. Elizabeth Medical Center Personal: Married, two children Hobbies: Enjoys spending time with family and traveling.

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What is AFib, and what causes it? AFib makes the heart beat rapidly and irregularly. It commonly feels like a fluttering of the heart. According to the Mayo Clinic, “During atrial fibrillation, the heart’s two upper chambers (the atria) beat chaotically and irregularly — out of coordination with the two lower chambers (the ventricles) of the heart.” AFib, also known as arrhythmia, is not deadly in and of itself but is nonetheless a serious condition. It increases the risk of heart failure or can be the result of a serious underlying health problem. There are several causes associated with AFib. It can be genetic or may be caused by one of several heart-related diseases, previous heart surgery, sleep apnea, lung disease, infection or an overactive thyroid. Caffeine, heavy alcohol use, street drugs and certain medications can also cause AFib.

What are the symptoms, and how is it diagnosed? The most common symptom of AFib is a fluttering heartbeat or palpitations. Other symptoms also sometimes accompany the condition, such as: • fatigue • dizziness • thumping in the chest • anxiety • shortness of breath • feeling faint or confused • sweating

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There are four types of AFib, although one form can progress into another. • Paroxysmal AFib is intermittent and can last for just a few seconds or up to a week. Symptoms may range from none to severe. Either way, this form of AFib goes away on its own within a week or less. Compression Wear Available • Persistent AFib doesn’t go away on its own. It lasts until it’s AMZHMDNLM 14-Mar-2014 07:57 treated with either medication or electric shock. For those at high John H. Dominic Jr. AMZHMDNLM 14-Mar-2014 07:57 risk of a stroke or if there’s another ABC Board Certiﬁed Pedorthist Listing Information: known cause of the AFib,Corresponding physicians AAMZHMB2DNLMA will treat the source of the irregular DUPLICATE PROOF AMZHMDNLM 14-Mar-2014 07:57 heartbeat as well. If you require • Longstanding persistent AFib a change, please contact your sales representative or call Yellow Book Customer Service at 1-800-891-1899. AAMZHMB2DNLMA doesn’tCorresponding respond to the aboveListing typiInformation: DUPLICATE PROOF cal treatments. So several SIGNATURE: forms of__________________________ minimally invasive catheter ablaPlease Note: Print quality may vary from final product. tion are usually considered. For this procedure, you’ll be given something If you require a change, please contact your sales representative to relaxCorresponding you and a local anesthetic to Information: Listing r call Yellow Book Customer Service at 1-800-891-1899. numb theogroin or neck area where Reading Cluster, I (Frisk): John Reading Cluster III (Weiner): Essays AAMZHM the catheter will be inserted. for the Ages Adams SIGNATURE: __________________________ DUPLICATE PR • Finally, permanent AFib occurs Weekly, Tuesday, September 7 through Tuesday, Weekly, Wednesday, September 15 to Wednesday, when longstanding persistent AFib December 1, 7from p.m. tofinal 8 p.m. (EST). Please December 7, 7-8:15 p.m. (EST). Please contact may Please Note: Print quality vary product. is unresponsive to treatment. If Dr. Frisk at dfrisk@theahi.org or 202-999- contact Lauren Weiner at lweiner6@gmail. you change, please contact your sales representative treatmentIfhas beenrequire ineffective,ayour 5751. com. or call Book Customer Service at 1-800-891-1899. doctor might decideYellow to discontinue AAMZHM the treatment. This form of AFib is Reading Cluster II (Frisk): The Cold Reading Cluster IV (Nelson): Louisa associatedSIGNATURE: with an increased risk of a War and Its Warriors May Alcott’s Little Women __________________________ heart attack and can also impact the Weekly, Thursday, September 9 through Weekly, Sunday, September 5 to Sunday, quality of your life. Thursday, December 9, 7-8:15 p.m. (EST). December 5, 8 p.m. to 9 p.m. (EST). Please Print quality may vary from product. So whatever the form of AFib, PleasePlease contact Dr.Note: Frisk at dfrisk@theahi. contact Claudia Nelsonfinal at claudia_nelson@ take the condition seriously. If you org or 202-999-5751. tamu.edu. experience symptoms, seek medical Courses are free of charge and open to the public. www.theahi.org. attention without delay. AMZHMDNLM 14-Mar-2014 07:57

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Healthcare in a Minute

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IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper

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Page 5

Live Alone & Thrive

By Gwenn Voelckers

Practical tips, advice and hope for those who live alone

Don’t Let This Past Year Define You

ell, so much for that longed-for carefree summer. Just as we were getting a taste of normalcy, a fourth wave of coronavirus infections began to sweep across the U.S. And as I write this, we are seeing an uptick in cases. While many medical experts and the CDC warn things may get worse before they get better, they also say this can be turned around by getting vaccinated, wearing masks and continuing to practice social distancing. I’m all in. And hope you are, too. In the past, I’ve shared lots of “do’s” to help people live alone with more success. Here are a few “don’ts” — some lighthearted — that may also help you on your journey toward contentment in what continues to be changing and challenging times. • Don’t make isolation a habit. This is a tricky one, because the times we’re in have called for social distancing. Problem is, social isolation can slowly, subtly morph into social anxiety, which can lead to feelings of disconnection or, worse, depression. What started out as an essential mandate to keep ourselves and others safe has, for some, turned into an unhealthy habit. There’s no one solution to breaking the cycle of social isolation, but there are a few tips I can share: • Take a look at your situation and notice if you’ve stopped reaching out; and likewise, if people have stopped reaching out to you.

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• Decide to ease back in slowly and suggest get-togethers (ideally outdoors) that feel safe to you. • Try to accept invitations when they do come your way, even if you don’t feel like it. • Ask for help, if you need it, by letting others know that you fear you are becoming a hermit. We humans are social animals; we’re meant to be with others. Solitary confinement is for criminals, not for people who live alone. Stay connected! • Don’t make Fruit Loops your main course for dinner. Well ... maybe on occasion. But as a general rule? No. Create a nice place setting, fill your plate with something healthy, light a candle, select a beverage of choice, and enjoy some well-deserved time to yourself. A favorite magazine, book or crossword puzzle can make for a nice dining companion. Bon appetit! • Don’t go on an online shopping spree to ﬁll an emotional void. Your savings account will thank you. • Don’t put too much stock in that dreamcatcher. If you find yourself wide awake in the middle of night worrying about COVID-19 or fighting demons, you might try meditation, journaling, or aromatherapy. When I can’t sleep, I fill my diffuser with lavender oil and do some deep breathing while I repeat the phrase, “Sleep is healing.” If that doesn’t do the trick, I get up and prepare myself “Sleepytime” herbal tea.

Just as we were getting a taste of normalcy, a fourth wave of coronavirus infections began to sweep across the U.S. And as I write this, we are seeing an uptick in cases. I return to bed with fingers crossed and eyes closed. If all else fails, consult your doctor. • Don’t jump into someone’s arms out of loneliness. Feelings of desperation can make you easy prey for a suitor with dubious intentions. It’s a risky place to be. Getting good at living alone will build your self-esteem and improve your chances of meeting someone who values and appreciates your strengths, not your weaknesses. • Don’t be afraid to travel alone. When the time is right, hit the road! Some of my best trips have been taken with my favorite traveling companion: myself. I create my own itinerary, go at my own pace, see incredible places and meet all kinds of interesting people along the way. Even a small jaunt can boost your confidence. On your own, you’ll discover your own resourcefulness, ability to solve problems, and capacity to spend enjoyable time alone. It can be an enlightening adventure in self-discovery. • Don’t act your age. You are free, unencumbered and on your own. What better time to spread your wings, be silly and otherwise express your glorious, awesome self. Put yourself with people who make you laugh. For me, that’s my sister Anne. So, keep your sense humor. Even in serious times, funny things can happen. I just read about a study that showed that laughing — even fake laughing — can reduce stress, dampen pain, lower your blood pressure, and strengthen your immune system. Now, that’s no laughing matter! • Don’t underestimate the

IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • September 2021

power of gratitude. I have found the process of reflecting on and writing down those things for which I’m grateful to be a fulfilling, even healing, exercise. Think back over your day. Identify those things or people or places that made an impression on you or that touched your heart. Great or small, it could be the sound of a breeze through the trees, a new assignment at work, your daughter’s decision to go back to school, or a stranger’s warm hello in passing. Start every day with an open heart and with a view to see the positive and the possibilities in life. If you bump into an obstacle, try to appreciate the opportunity it presents to overcome it. When you focus on the wonderful things in life, wonderful things begin to happen. It reminds me of the law of attraction. Your positive thoughts and energy can become a magnet and draw even more positive thoughts and energy in your direction. • Don’t take these “don’ts” too seriously. You are in the best position to decide what to do or not to do — no shoulds, musts, or other people’s agendas. That’s one of the best benefits of living alone. Don’t I know it. Gwenn Voelckers is the founder and facilitator of Alone and Content, empowerment workshops for women and author of “Alone and Content,” a collection of inspiring essays for those who live alone. For information about her workshops, to purchase her book, or invite Voelckers to speak, visit www.aloneandcontent.com

Wilczynski during his 40th Boilermaker competition in 2017.

Joe Wilczynski,, right, with his friend Earl Reed, one of the founders of Boilermaker.

Local Runner Raced in Every Boilermaker Joe Wilczynski of Marcy has spent most of his life running in marathons across the U.S., including every single Boilermaker race since its inception in 1978 By Daniel Baldwin

ohawk Valley resident Joe Wilczynski has spent 45 years of his life running in many road races and marathons across the U.S. He has recorded more than 51,000 miles and his best finish is a 63:47. Out of all the marathons and road races the longtime local runner competed in, no race or marathon is more important, memorable or interesting to Wilczynski than his hometown race, the Utica Boilermaker. Wilczynski, 62, ran in the Inaugural Boilermaker in 1978. The Marcy has not missed a single race ever since. He ran in all 43 Boilermakers and even participated in the virtual one last year. This year’s Boilermaker race will be held live once again on Oct. 10. COVID-19 and the three-month delay will not snap the longtime racer’s participation streak. Wilczynski said he is fully vaccinated and ready to run in this year’s race. The actual Boilermaker 15k racecourse is, to Wilczynski’s terms, the largest and best racecourse in the country. The course, along with the race being in his hometown, is the reason why Wilczynski participates in the Boilermaker each year. “This Boilermaker covers everything from general planning to an awesome course design, to outstanding volunteers, to abundance of race

information, to an incredible start line, to the world’s best spectators in the country, to the amazing abundance of water stops on the course, amazing course entertainment on the course, to an incredible finish line with an after party that you have to experience for yourself and most importantly the safety and well-being for all our runners,” Wilczynski said. “The abundance of spectators on the course to encourage you to finish, words cannot describe the feelings. You really have to experience the Boilermaker to see how smoothly and how successfully this road race is,” he continued. “Great races all have some key characteristics in common and boils down to leadership. Boilermaker has a renowned race director Jim Stasaitis who is not only fully involved but cares for everyone. The president Mark Donavan and the amazing Boilermaker staff pay attention to detail to make the Boilermaker special. I participated in the Boilermaker because it is a hometown race. The largest and best 15k road race in the country.” Wilczynski heard about this Boilermaker race from his close friend and one of the founders of Boilermaker, Earle Reed.

‘I still enjoy running’ Before the start of the Boilermaker, Wilczynski and Reed were both

members of the Utica-based running club called the Steuben Striders. The two, along with the other club members, trained together for upcoming marathons and ran together in the races. Reed was not only a friend to Wilczynski, but a mentor as well. Reed always trained and helped his friend run well at these marathons and go the entire race distance. Wilczynski said that he would not have gotten to where he was today in his running career, if it was not for Reed. “Earle’s been there from day one,” Wilczynski said. “We belong to a local running club Steuben Striders. Earle, myself, and the Steuben Striders trained together for upcoming marathons and helped run well at these events to go the entire distance. I became more interested in running long distance runs such as marathons due to Earle’s influence. We had a strong unity running group that works together. Earle has impacted my life in so many ways. He is a mentor and a true friend.” Wilczynski said that his close friend started the Boilermaker road race in 1978 as a way to give back to the Mohawk Valley Community, who supported his family’s radiator business, Utica Radiator. The 1978 Boilermaker had about 800 runners, a far cry from the amount of people who registered and ran in the 2019 race, but Wilczynski did not mind the crowd size and still

September 2021 •

had a fun time at this event. “The first Boilermaker was much smaller,” Wilczynski said. “However, it was still an awesome event and had about 800 runners. Everything has changed, but this race every year gets better and better.” Reed was not Wilczynski’s only trainer, as he was also coached by Joe Ficcaro. “Joe Ficcaro who perhaps more than anyone else made Utica prominent in long distance running,” Wilczynski said. “Joe was my coach until his passing July 2011. Joe taught us the respect of running. Be a team player. I still have Joe’s thoughts in my head while I am running.” Wilczynski’s father and wife have also been a big help to him during his running career. “My dad, Joseph Wilczynski Sr., was instrumental in my running career,” Wilczynski said. “By my side forever until his passing July 7, 2003. My lovely wife, Susanne, who has been by my side forever. Without her support, I would not be where I am today. Without these individuals, I would not be where I am today.” Forty-five years of running has not worn down nor tired Wilczynski. The local runner said he still enjoys running and plans on racing in a few more marathons after the Boilermaker. “I started running in 1976 and been continuing for years,” Wilczynski said. “I still enjoy running and the enjoyment is the reason why I race. I’m very grateful that God has allowed me to continue my running career. Forty-three Boilermakers and I will keep continuing on stride at this time.”

IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper

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Disabilities

‘Special Needs’ vs. ‘Disabled’: A Search for Respectful Verbiage Experts: avoiding the term ‘disabled’ only leads to stigmatization By Deborah Jeanne Sergeant

robably arising from the push for additional education support for persons with disabilities, the term “special needs” has been used for years but is beginning to fall out of favor with some groups. “Most experts and advocates vehemently oppose the term ‘special needs’ and believe we need to eliminate it from our vernacular,” said David Oliver in a June 11 article in USA Today. “Furthermore, they say avoiding the term ‘disabled’ only leads to stigmatization.” “Special needs” may sound like the individual has exceptional needs rather than requiring different means to obtain what every person needs. The term “special needs” is not a legal or medical term was likely and was coined to describe the support needed beyond what people who are non-disabled need. According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, the first known use was in 1899. But these days, it is falling out of favor. Like many other similar organizations, the New York State Office for People With Developmental Disabil-

ities in Albany, uses “person-first language” for the people it supports. “We agree that words or negative references can influence how the general public view people with disabilities and can also be damaging to a person’s mental health and wellbeing,” said Jennifer O’Sullivan, director of communications. Regardless of the term used to describe disability, it is respectful to place the person first, such as “person with a learning disability” and not “learning disabled person.” Age can make a difference on what phrase to use. Betsy Primo, director of special children services, part of the Onondaga County Health Department, works with children from birth to age 5 in an early intervention, a family-based program. The phrases used are “developmental differences” and “developmental delays.” The term “disability” connotates permanency, which may not be true for some delays at this age. “If the parents themselves are disabled, what I’ve found is they

prefer ‘disabled’ or ‘individual with disability,’” Primo said. “Put the human first. If we’re talking with a parent who doesn’t know a lot about early intervention or has not had other children with developmental delays, they seem to prefer ‘special needs.’” She added that the legal term is “preschooler with a disability” to obtain needed support, although each child is treated as an individual with unique skills and needs. “We label jars, not people,” Primo said. “We meet the child and family where they are so they can reach their highest potential.” Viewing adults as consumers led to the use of “client” and “individual” as words of choice in the field. However, they can sound like people in a transaction and minimize the real struggles faced by people with a disability. “Differently abled” also tends to gloss over difficulties, according to Andy Lopez-Williams, Ph.D., clinical and forensic neuropsychologist and founder of ADHD & Autism Psy-

chological Services and Advocacy in Syracuse and Utica. “If we err too much on being too positive, then I think we miss the point that many of these people really need help,” Lopez-Williams said. “It’s less about what you call it but more about the good faith effort to help them with compassion and respect. If we’re missing that point and being too optimistic, maybe we’re doing a disservice rather than a service.” He compared the situation to a patient consulting with a physician about a cancer diagnosis. “The physician is going to be straight with you and not come up with colorful names to make you feel better. But if they treat you with compassion, and respect, that makes you feel better, not a kiddish name,” he said. The term “differently abled” may also tacitly imply savant qualities not present. How some terms are developed comes from the deficit model approach to care in medicine or behavioral health. Lopez-Williams would rather take an approach that views every person as possessing areas of strength or need. “If we understand that as a basis of helping people we can get rid of intrinsic disability,” he said. “It affects how we assess people.” He wants more people to resist taking offense to terms and to notice the intent of the user of the phrase, providing it is generally respectful and compassionate and not pejorative. “We need to have some grace and latitude,” he said. “If we do that, we’re better off. My feeling is that the terms are a distraction. They’re less important than what we do for people who have difficulties. No word has any meaning in and of itself. It’s arbitrary. A term has a clinical meaning, but as we use it as a society, it can pick up negative connotation.” That is usually when a medical term is misused as slang. Because it is impossible to control how others misuse terms, Lopez-Williams realizes that these words reach a point at which they require replacing when it becomes insulting. “A word starts out clinical, clean,” he said. “It has no baggage. It becomes derogatory. Everything has a lifespan. When it ages out and gets to have no utility, we replace it.”

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IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • September 2021

Disabilities Q: How long have you been CEO for the organization? A: It will be 11 years this coming January. Q: How many staff do you presently have? A: We have about 700 staff that covers the two counties, Oneida and Lewis counties. Q: How long has Arc of Oneida/Lewis Chapter been in business and how did it begin? A: We have been in business since 1954. We started off as a group of parents who wanted more for their children who had developmental disabilities. Q: What is your annual operating budget? A: About $33 million. Q: What are the main sources of funding? A: We are mainly Medicaid funded. However, we also get a lot of donations; we work diligently with grant funding. We have a foundation that does a great deal of our fundraising.

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To offset workforce shortage, nonprofit is planning to use technology to help support clients in their homes, says Arc of Oneida/Lewis Chapter CEO By David Podos

Peak Season for Asthma Attacks

f you have a child with asthma, now is the time to revisit their Asthma Action Plan (www. health.ny.gov/publications/4850. pdf) so that you are prepared for the annual increase in asthma attacks that occurs each year as kids return to the classroom. A dramatic rise in the number of asthma flare-ups occurs each year from late August through the end of September, according to an Excellus BlueCross BlueShield review of past claims data and public health records. “The annual spike is caused, in part, by kids being exposed to more

germs once they return to school,” says physician Lisa Y. Harris, vice president medical affairs at Excellus BCBS. “It’s also the peak time of year for molds and pollen, which can trigger respiratory distress that can launch an asthma attack.” Harris, who is board-certified in internal medicine and pediatrics, advises parents to use the final weeks of summer to make sure that prescribed asthma control medications are being used as directed, and that a doctor’s

Q: What are the main services that your organization offers? A: Our traditional services are helping people from birth to seniors who are dealing with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Additionally, we have programs in every school district in Oneida County to help those students who have those developmental disabilities and we are working on implementing services to be placed into the Lewis County school districts as well. Another very exciting program we have is our college program, a collaboration with Arc and Mohawk Valley Community College. This has been going on now for a number of years. The program offers our clients a two-year college certificate. We also have a job placement service where we work closely with hundreds of businesses in our area in placing our clients that are seeking gainful employment. A number of our clientele work packaging products for Matt Brewery Company right here in Utica, which is a wonderful collaboration and when they grow, we do to. For clients who do not have the skills to become employed we have adult note is on file with the child’s school so that a supply of those medications can be kept there in case of an emergency. Parents should also use these last few weeks of summer to consult with their pediatrician to develop or update their child’s asthma action plan. This is a written plan that details a child’s daily asthma treatment including which medicines to take and when, and the child’s specific attack triggers. The action plan also explains how to identify when the child’s asthma symptoms are severe enough to contact the pediatrician or to take the child to urgent care or a hospital emergency room. “All adults and schools or other sites that care for a child with asthma should have a copy of the asthma action plan and understand their responsibilities regarding the child’s care,” says Harris.

September 2021 •

day care programs that work with our clients helping them to improve their social skills and daily goals. Q: How do the services you provide to your clients enhance their overall physical and emotional well-being? A: I think that whenever we can provide support to people to live the lives they want to live, and be independent in the community, to feel they have accomplished what they want to do, whether it be a job, or where they want to live. You can see the joy they have from accomplishing those goals etc. This has a very significant positive impact on their overall health. Q: How has the COVID-19 pandemic affected your organization? A: We are an essential health care provider so besides the programs and services I already mentioned, we also have 24-hour, seven days a week operation called group homes. We had to listen to what our regulators and what they were advising. We had to change things very quickly in the way we conducted business. At the end of the day, it was obviously very hard on all us and those we care for. It was scary and confusing, but we have an incredible staff that has a wonderful relationship with the people we support. We just took one day at a time. Q: What does the future look like for ARC? A: I think the biggest driving factor that we have right now is how are we going to manage the workforce shortage and how it will impact our services. Are we going to need to look at more independent areas, for example, less group homes but maybe more support and services in our client’s personal home setting? Maybe more apartment-type independent settings where we can staff a little bit differently. We are actually looking at technology to help support our people in the homes, smart technology. So, I think that’s really about how we make sure to support our people, making sure we strive to help them achieve as much as possible a fulfilled life, and this can be accomplished through smarter technology as well as looking at different structures on how we conduct business. That said, I believe the field will look very different five years from now. Before the start of school: • Check with your pediatrician to make sure that prescribed asthma medications are up to date and working, and that permissions are in place for their use at school, if needed. • Make sure your child takes all asthma medications as directed. • Alert all adults at school and elsewhere who work with your child to recognize the signs of an asthma attack. • Empower your child to notice and report asthma triggers and signs of a pending attack. • Prevent the spread of germs by encouraging proper handwashing, social distancing, and making sure that every family member is current on all recommended vaccinations, including the annual flu shot. For information on asthma, visit excellusbcbs.com and type “Asthma” in the search box.

IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper

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Page 9

Between You & Me

By Barbara Pierce

A Mental Health Moment in America: Athletes are Leading the Way

imone Biles did somehappened and why it was thing revolutionary no longer safe for her to during the recent compete. Olympics: She walked “I say put mental health away. The world was first before your sport,” stunned. Biles said of her decision. Biles, unquestionably “I had to do what’s right the greatest gymnast on for me and not jeopardize the planet, crippled on the my health and well-being. stage she owns, performing That’s why I decided to the tasks she had trained a take a step back and let [my Simone Biles lifetime to pull off, in the teammates] do their work.” moment that mattered. Biles’ decision is part of a larger In midair, soaring over a vault, cultural moment. Other high-profile Biles realized she had lost her way. athletes have been open about prioriLosing her bearings in a vault she has tizing their mental health. Tennis star performed hundreds, if not thouNaomi Osaka stepped away from the sands of times, was a red flag for her. media, and then from tournaments, She knew that her mind and body earlier this year out of a need to proweren’t in sync. tect her mental health. “It’s OK to not Per the New York Times, Biles be OK and it’s OK to talk about it,” said she pulled out of the Olympics she wrote in a July essay at Time. event because she was not in the Other athletes have spoken right place mentally to perform. publicly about mental health chal“I’m going to focus on my lenges: sprinter Noah Lyle described well-being,” Biles told reporters, taking antidepressants as “one of the citing the stresses of a pandemic year best decisions I’ve made in a while,” and not having an audience. “I’m and swimmer Simone Manuel, more than just a gymnast.” who missed three weeks of trainShe was open and honest about ing earlier this year due to overher reasons for withdrawing, extraining syndrome, which can cause plaining in terrifying detail what fatigue and depression.

And Meghan Markle, who said in an Oprah interview earlier this year that she experienced suicidal thoughts as a result of media scrutiny but was told by the royal family that she couldn’t seek help. It’s not just famous people who are speaking out. The pandemic inspired many to reevaluate their lives and focus on what was really important to them. Record numbers of workers from retail to restaurants to offices have left their jobs this year, often citing mental health as a factor. As my career was in mental health, counseling with people who had reached their breaking point, and helping them work their way back, I applaud Biles and Osaka and the others for being committing to caring for themselves, though it meant stepping away from something as big as the Olympics or the Grand Slam. Their steps are a huge step for all us. When people speak openly about mental health issues, there are so many benefits. For decades, we’ve had a play-through-the-pain mentality. Grin and bear it. Put on your big girl pants. Mental illness has a lot of stigma attached to it—that stigma can prevent us from recognizing when we need to reach out for help. Mental health disorders are on the rise; the fact that young people are being more open about mental health could help explain this increase. Millions of adults in the U.S. live with mental health issues, and the more we talk about it, the more likely we’ll feel comfortable seeking care and support.

Having a sound mental well-being is an important part of staying healthy overall and enjoying an improved quality of life. Part of being great is recognizing when you can’t be great. Biles has shown the world what true strength looks like. Imagine how difficult it was to make the decision to step aside with the world watching. She deserves credit for such courage. We expected her to rewrite history books and indeed she has. She has done this, not by doubling her collection of five Olympic medals, but perhaps in a more profound inspiring and necessary way than anyone anticipated. She’s helping young people realize that it’s OK to take care of themselves. She’s teaching them to prioritize their bodies because mental health and physical health are inextricably linked. Perhaps it’s time to celebrate the ushering in of a new era: one in which gold medals take a backseat to mental health. Barbara Pierce is a retired licensed clinical social worker with many years of experience helping people. If you would like to purchase a copy of her book, “When You Come to the Edge: Aging” or if you have questions for her, contact her at barbarapierce06@yahoo.com.

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IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • September 2021

SmartBites By Anne Palumbo

The skinny on healthy eating

Your Stomach’s Best Friend? Fennel!

addled with a finicky stomach since forever, I’m always on the lookout for foods that aid digestion. Probiotic-rich yogurt, high-fiber whole grains, nausea-busting ginger, constipation-relieving apples: all have easily found their way into my weekly diet. My newest addition? Fennel. Sweet, crunchy, refreshing fennel. While I’m no stranger to fennel and have always enjoyed its licorice-like flavor, I’ve never really eaten it on a consistent basis. But these days, I now consume this bulbous vegetable with the feathery fronds several times a week — for the digestive benefits and so much more. How exactly does fennel keep our digestion humming? Fennel contains a unique antispasmodic agent that relaxes the smooth muscles in our digestive tract—a soothing action that helps to reduce bloating, cramping, and flatulence. In the early 20th century, fennel was actually listed as an official drug for digestion in the U.S. National Standard Dispensatory. And limited research suggests that fennel oil may reduce colic in infants. Maybe this explains why Indian restaurants offer a bowl of candy-coated fennel seeds to customers. Fennel also rocks with fiber: 11% of our daily needs in one cup of raw slices. Fiber-rich foods support healthy digestion by adding bulk to our stools and by helping food move through our system more easily and quickly. In other words, less constipation! High fiber intake has also been linked to a lower risk of developing heart disease and diabetes due to its ability to help lower blood pressure, cholesterol, and glucose levels. And contrary to its pale color, fennel boasts a good amount of vitamin C.

Adapted from Cooking Light Serves 4

2 fennel bulbs 1 teaspoon ground coriander 1 teaspoon ground cumin 1 tablespoon chopped fronds 1 tablespoon olive oil 3 cups chopped tomatoes 4 garlic cloves, sliced 2 tablespoons lemon juice ½ teaspoon kosher salt ¼ teaspoon coarse black pepper ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) 4 tablespoons crumbled feta

Hearts love this essential vitamin for its cell-protecting antioxidant benefits; skin loves it for its wrinkle prevention; immune systems love it for its overall boost; and eyes love it because it may delay the onset of developing cataracts, as well as slow the progression of age-related macular degeneration. A versatile vegetable that’s as enjoyable raw as it is cooked, fennel is naturally low in fat, sodium, cholesterol and calories (only 30 per sliced cup) and a good source of potassium.

Try These 3 Tips to Lose Those Pandemic Pounds

f you’re like many people, your waistline has expanded during the pandemic. “The world shut down,” said Heather Tressler, a registered dietitian at the Penn State Celiac Clinic at Penn State Health’s Milton S. Hershey Medical Center. “Maybe you didn’t change what you ate, but you became less active.” Lately, Tressler says she’s seeing patients — adults and children — who have gained 20 to 40 pounds during the pandemic. A study published this spring in the journal JAMA Network Open found that among 270 middle-aged men and women, they had

Fennel, Tomato and Feta Skillet Bake

gained an average of 1.5 pounds per month between February and June 2020. Now may feel like the right time to shed that extra pants size, but it’s important to approach it in a healthy way. Tressler offered three tips to safely get started: 1) forget the fads, 2) don’t become too obsessed with calories, and 3) exercise alone is not enough. Though fad diets might sound appealing and bring you shortterm weight loss, they’re not sustainable, Tressler explained. Some are even risky. A diet that emphasizes a high fat intake, for example, could

Helpful tips Look for large, tight bulbs that are white or pale green, minus signs of splitting, bruising or spotting. The root bottom should have little browning. To store: trim fronds (if still on) to two inches above the bulb, wrap loosely in a plastic bag, and place in fridge for up to 5 days. In season now, fennel can be found at local farmer’s markets.

lead to spikes in cholesterol. Don’t be entirely focused on weight. “A scale really only measures the Earth’s gravitational pull on your body,” Tressler said in a Penn State news release. It’s more important to know your numbers — cholesterol, triglycerides, blood pressure, she said. They’ll give you a better picture of your health and the safest ways to lose weight. Losing weight is basic subtraction and requires eating less than you need to maintain your weight. Age, gender and activity levels also make a difference in the number of calories you need to maintain or lose weight. App stores and websites offer calculators to help you keep track. Tressler suggested the Harris-Benedict equation, which can calculate how many calories your body would need if it rested for 24 hours. Just

September 2021 •

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Trim coarse bulb bottom; then cut bulbs vertically into 8 wedges each, separating wedges along the way. Sprinkle with coriander, cumin, and a pinch of salt. Chop fennel fronds to equal 1 tablespoon; set aside. Heat olive oil in a large ovenproof skillet over medium-high. Add fennel wedges; cook 6 minutes until lightly browned, stirring throughout. Add garlic slices and cook 1 minute more. Add chopped tomatoes, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Gently mix; then place entire skillet in oven for 15 minutes. Sprinkle with crumbled feta and garnish with fronds.

Anne Palumbo is a lifestyle colum-

nist, food guru, and seasoned cook, who has perfected the art of preparing nutritious, calorie-conscious dishes. She is hungry for your questions and comments about SmartBites, so be in touch with Anne at avpalumbo@aol.com.

don’t become too numbers-focused, she said. “It can become very restrictive,” Tressler said, and can lead to eating disorders. Tressler recommends “intuitive eating” based on lifestyle needs. “There are no bad foods,” she said, “only bad portions.” The vast majority of weight loss can be controlled by what you eat, Tressler said. Some websites and articles say losing weight is the result of 80% diet and 20% exercise. Exercise also is good for heart health, muscles and well-being. Tressler suggests 30 minutes per day, five days a week, of something you like such as dancing or walking, and then pairing that with a healthy, sensible eating plan. “Maintain a balance,” Tressler said.

IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper

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Page 11

Alzheimer’s Dementia Cases Will Triple Worldwide by 2050

T say.

he global total of people living with dementia will rise nearly three-fold by 2050, researchers

Cases are projected to increase from an estimated 57.4 million in 2019 to an estimated 152.8 million in 2050, driven mainly by population growth and aging. This “emphasizes the vital need for research focused on the discovery of disease-modifying treatments and effective low-cost interventions for the prevention or delay of dementia onset,” said lead researcher Emma Nichols of the University of Washington School of Medicine. By 2050, 16% the world’s population will be people over 65. That compares with 8% in 2010, according to the U.S. National Institute on Aging. The researchers said the largest increases in dementia are expected to occur in eastern sub-Saharan Africa, North Africa and the Middle East. While positive trends in education access worldwide are expected to result in 6.2 million fewer demen-

tia cases by 2050, smoking, excess weight and high blood sugar are predicted to boost cases by 6.8 million. The projections, covering 1999 to 2019, are based on data from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) study, a set of worldwide health trend estimates. The findings were presented at a recent meeting of the Alzheimer’s Association, held in Denver and online. Research presented at meetings is typically considered preliminary until published in a peer-reviewed journal. “Improvements in lifestyle in adults in developed countries and other places — including increasing access to education and greater at-

tention to heart health issues — have reduced incidence in recent years, but total numbers with dementia are still going up because of the aging of the population,” said Maria Carrillo, chief science officer of the Alzheimer’s Association. “In addition, obesity, diabetes and sedentary lifestyles in younger people are rising quickly, and these are risk factors for dementia,” she added in a meeting news release. Nichols said these estimates would help policymakers and decision makers better understand the expected increases in dementia and what’s driving them. Her team used the same data to estimate that Alzheimer’s disease

death rates rose 38% worldwide between 1990 and 2019. That study was published last year in Alzheimer’s & Dementia: The Journal of the Alzheimer’s Association. Carrillo said the numbers will grow beyond 2050 without effective treatments to stop, slow or prevent Alzheimer’s and all dementia. This will affect individuals, caregivers, health systems and governments. “In addition to therapeutics, it’s critical to uncover culturally tailored interventions that reduce dementia risk through lifestyle factors like education, diet and exercise,” Carrillo said.

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IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • September 2021

The Power of Music for Those With Dementia

Music can actually lift people out of the Alzheimer’s haze and bring them back to a semblance of normality, if only for a short while By Barbara Pierce

usic is one of the best ways to connect with people—especially those with dementia or Alzheimer’s,” said Director of Activities Meghan Moore, with Mohawk Homestead in Mohawk. “It’s nothing short of amazing to watch an individual be brought back into the present by a simple note or lyric,” she said. Millions of people agreed with this when a video went viral a few years ago. The video showed Henry, an elderly man with Alzheimer’s, slumped over, head down with his eyes closed, unresponsive to the world. He looked barely alive and hadn’t spoken more than a few words for years. When headphones are placed on his ears and he hears his favorite music of his youth, he becomes alive. Transformed, he raises his head; his eyes open wide open; he’s alive again. After the headphones are off,

he talks. “I’m crazy about music… Music gives me a feeling of love.” Then he sings along to “I’ll Be Home For Christmas,” remembering all the words. “Watching Henry, I cried,” said the filmmaker. Another clip of woman, sobbing in her wheelchair, unresponsive. When she heard her music, she got up, pushed away the wheelchair, grabbed the volunteer and danced. A complete transformation because of her music. The clips are from a documentary, “Alive Inside,” which illustrates how music awakens the minds of people suffering from Alzheimer’s and dementia. It shows patients reacting to what had been their favorite music with impressive results. The clips of Henry and the woman getting up to dance are great examples of the link between music and the brain. Music survives long after much

of the brain is gone. Musical emotion and memory can survive long after other forms of memory and cognitive function have disappeared, according to the experts. Alzheimer’s and other dementias put people into layers of confusion. Music can actually lift people out of the Alzheimer’s haze and bring them back to a semblance of normality, if only for a short while. The reason is because music is embedded in several parts of our brain—in emotion, memory, and movement. So, even when much of the brain is gone, music is still there. It’s a back door to the failing cognitive system for those with dementia. No one says playing music is a cure for Alzheimer’s disease, but it does make the symptoms more manageable, decreases the cost of care, and improves a patient’s quality of life. “One of the biggest pushes in nursing homes is using nonpharmacological ways to treat and aid the older population,” said Kayla Snyder, recreation director for The Grand Rehabilitation and Nursing in Utica. “Music and memory programs are one of these interventions that we’re implementing.” Behavioral disturbances are common in dementia and lead to considerable stress for patients and caregivers. Managing these behaviors can be difficult, with increasing care needs and stress for all involved. Data indicates that music for dementia patients significantly reduces agitation and the need for medication. “The Grand Rehabilitation and Nursing is purchasing MP3 players and creating personalized playlists for residents, to be used as an intervention to help to decrease anxiety, depression and help with care times. I’ve personally seen the positive results in other facilities,” said Snyder. Personalized playlists are a key. Everyone’s got those favorite songs that send chills down their back. When we hear those songs, an intense discharge of dopamine floods our brain. Our brain reacts to our favorite songs, usually the music we listened when we were young. “I’ve sat with a family when the resident isn’t remembering their family,” said Snyder. “I asked the family

Deaths From Alzheimer’s Far More Common in Rural America

eath rates from Alzheimer’s disease are particularly high in the rural United States, a preliminary study finds, highlighting a need for health care resources in traditionally under-served areas. Researchers discovered that over the past two decades, rural areas in the Southeast have seen the highest death rates from Alzheimer’s, at 274 per 100,000 people. That’s about twice the rate as seen in urban areas of the mid-Atlantic region, which had the lowest numbers. The study could not pinpoint the reasons why, but there are some likely culprits, according to senior researcher Ambar Kulshreshtha, a physician and professor of Emory University in Atlanta. “We know rural areas suffer a

greater burden of other medical conditions,” he explained. The Southeast, Kulshreshtha noted, has long been known as the nation’s “stroke belt” due to its high rates of stroke, as well as other cardiovascular diseases like heart failure. And those conditions are risk factors for Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. Poorer access to health care in rural areas is also an issue, Kulshreshtha said. It means, for one, that people may be less likely to be screened for dementia early in the course of their disease, or to get specialist care. Kulshreshtha presented the findings at the Alzheimer’s Association’s annual meeting, held recently. Studies released at meetings are

generally considered preliminary until they are published in a peer-reviewed journal. It’s estimated that more than 6 million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s disease — a number expected to roughly double in the next 30 years, according to the Alzheimer’s Association. To see whether rural areas are disproportionately affected, Kulshreshtha’s team used data from the federal government’s National Center for Health Statistics. They looked at deaths from Alzheimer’s in different regions and according to level of urbanization. Overall, the study found, deaths from the brain disease rose by 88% between 1999 and 2019. The Mid-Atlantic and New England regions

September 2021 •

Alzheimer’s

Director of Activities Meghan Moore, Mohawk Homestead in Mohawk. “It’s nothing short of amazing to watch an individual be brought back into the present by a simple note or lyric,” she says. her favorite song, pulled it up on my phone and played it. Immediately, her face lit up, she began singing. She connected with her family through her music. Music is one of the best ways for our residents to interact with their families.” At Mohawk Homestead, Moore incorporates music into the activity calendar whenever possible. “During most of my group activities there’s music playing in the background, even if the activity isn’t centered around music” she said. “I do this because it seems to help less cognizant residents stay engaged.” “I see how frustrating it is, for our residents with dementia or Alzheimer’s, to not be able to do the things they used to—music really keeps everyone engaged and upbeat,” she added. Snyder also incorporates music on the schedule at The Grand Rehabilitation and Nursing. “We play music during group programs. Those that may not participate in a program, such as basketball or noodle balloon, may still be observed tapping toes, singing, bobbing their heads—showing evidence that they are still being positively stimulated and finding moments of joy,” she said. It’s clear that music plays a critically important role, to those who have cognitive impairments, to all of us. Bringing those moments of joy. Music has such power on our brains; it brings us joy, makes us cry, makes us laugh, helps us connect with each other. maintained the lowest rates, while the Southeast had the highest for most of the study period. Big cities, meanwhile, had lower death rates than nonmetropolitan areas. Those disparities only increased over time, the study found. Claire Sexton, who directs scientific programs and outreach for the Alzheimer’s Association, agreed that heart disease — along with social and economic disparities, and difficulty accessing health care — likely contribute to the rural-urban divide. She said it all underscores an important issue: People with dementia and their family caregivers need services like home health care, day centers and support groups, and those resources are tougher to come by in rural areas. Kulshreshtha made the same point. “We need to advocate for more resources for under-served communities, particularly those living in rural areas,” he said.

IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper

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Page 13

The Balanced Body

By Deb Dittner

Alzheimer’s Disease, Also Known as Senile Dementia

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hat is Alzheimer’s? According to the Alzheimer’s Association, “Alzheimer’s is a type of dementia that affects memory, thinking and behavior. Symptoms eventually grow severe enough to interfere with daily tasks.” Alzheimer’s is a progressive disease occurring mostly in those age 65 and older. Research has shown that every 65 seconds someone in the United States develops Alzheimer’s disease. Common symptoms consist of but are not limited to: • memory loss of recently learned information • confusion with time and space • difficulty in understanding visual images • misplacing items and not able to find them • difficulty with conversation therefore limiting an activity with others • change in disposition (anxious, fearful, confused, depressed) • difficulty with finances It can be difficult as a family member or friend when these symptoms initially start in a loved one. What to do? First of all, don’t go it alone. Hold a family meeting to discuss what it is you may be seeing and the steps to take to get the best help for the loved one. Early detection helps in the treatment process, so scheduling an appointment with

Avoid heavily processed foods and with both anti-oxidant and anti-inthose containing refined sugar. flammatory use in traditional Chinese medicine. Gingko has been used As Alzheimer’s progresses it may become more difficult due to a loss to assist with cognitive symptoms. of appetite. Get creative in your food • Omega 3-fatty acids have choices and recipes. been used to lower the risk of heart Hydration can also become a disease and stroke, support and your health care provider is another problem so encouraging small cups protect nerve cell membranes, and good start. Testing and referrals to of water that can be infused with its many anti-inflammatory properspecialists may also help in the treatberries, cucumbers, mint and more ties. Research has shown a possible ment protocols as there is no cure at will be beneficial. Another way to get reduction in the risk of dementia or this time. Improving and maintaining cognitive decline but more is needed. calories and liquids is to make soups quality of life should be addressed or smoothies and provide snacks Therapeutic grade essential to allow for a healthy relationship such as cucumbers or watermelon oils have also been considered for with themselves and the family and which have a high water content. Alzheimer patients in improving friends. It’s always important to encourpersonal orientation. Oils can be Physical movement most days of inhaled, applied directly to the skin age independence for as long as posthe week has been shown to decrease or diffused in a diffuser. Some oils to sible keeping safety in mind. Prevencognitive deterioration. Find a form tion of injury, decreasing overwhelm consider are: of exercise that is enjoyable and conand using services as the need arises • Lavender, used to decrease tinue. By exercising with a friend or are all important factors when keepanxiety, restlessness, depression and family member creates conversation ing our elders healthy and happy. used to aid in sleep. to help in slowing down the effects of The information provided is for • Bergamot, used to improve Alzheimer’s. educational purposes. Please discuss positive feelings, showing a decrease Alternative therapies may be any concerns with your primary care in anxiety, depression and agitation. considered, but do know that these provider. • Peppermint, used to improve have limited trials/research and memory, focus and concentration. not all those suffering with demenPeppermint can calm the nerves and tia may benefit. Consider having a also aid in headaches. team approach with your health care • Lemon, used to decrease stress Deborah Dittner provider, pharmacist and those who and boost one’s mood. is a family nurse provide alternative choices such as • Rosemary, used to improve practitioner and acupuncturists. If using supplements personal orientation. health consultant. in combination with prescribed med• Ylang ylang, used to improve Her mission is to ications please note the possible indepression and reduce stress. It is teractions or enhanced effectiveness. also beneficial in insomnia. transform as many - Seeking compassionate, Some supplements for discussion to • Frankincense, used to boost individuals as consider in the treatment plan: one’s mood and increase focus. possible through hardworking applicants to support individuals • Coenzyme Q10 is an anti-oxiNutrition, no matter what the nutrition and lifestyle dant occurring naturally in the body disease, is of utmost on thecondition autismorspectrum changes. and is needed for normal reactions in importance. Whole nutrient-dense For more information, check out her - isAbility work within home andofcommunity the cell. This used byto many but has foods consisting vegetables and settings website at www.debdittner.com or not been studied for its effectiveness. clean lean protein and healthy - Attend the extract health fruit, and personal needs of individuals • Gingko biloba isto a plant fats will be beneficial for everyone. contact her at 518-596-8565.

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IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • September 2021

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Understanding Cognitive Testing Just as we’re tested for our vision, hearing and heart health, at some point most of us will be tested for memory and thinking skills. Test looks for ‘red ﬂags’ By Barbara Pierce

ognitive assessments are how health care professionals determine whether you are experiencing cognitive decline or impairment. “Cognitive” refers to a combination of thought processes in your brain, including language, memory, judgment, and the ability to learn new things. A problem with cognition is called cognitive impairment; it ranges from mild to severe. There are many causes of cognitive impairment, including side effects of medications, blood vessel disorders, depression, sleep apnea, thyroid problems, vitamin deficiencies, excess alcohol consumption, and dementia. Dementia is a term used for a severe loss of mental functioning. Alz-

heimer’s disease is the most common type of dementia. Detecting cognitive impairment early is vital so that the conditions that could be causing it can be treated or slowed down. A surprising number of cognitive problems can be reversed when causes like nutrient deficiencies, side effects of medication, depression or thyroid disease are treated. Changes in the brain can start to happen years before any symptoms appear. Early detection is an opportunity to take action before significant deterioration begins. In addition to the fact that a diagnosis can treat the cause of the cognitive impairment, it’s beneficial for several other reasons. Though the

Some Diabetes Meds Might Also Lower Alzheimer’s Risk

eople taking certain drugs to lower blood sugar for Type 2 diabetes had less amyloid in the brain, a biomarker of Alzheimer’s disease, when compared to both people with Type 2 diabetes not taking the drugs and people without diabetes. The new study, published in the Aug. 11 online issue of Neurology, the medical journal of the American Academy of Neurology, also found people taking these drugs, called dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors, showed slower cognitive decline than people in the other two groups. In people with Type 2 diabetes, the body no longer efficiently uses insulin to control blood sugar. Dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors, also known as gliptins, can be prescribed when other diabetes drugs do not work. They help control blood sugar when combined with diet and exercise.

“People with diabetes have been shown to have a higher risk of Alzheimer’s disease, possibly due to high blood sugar levels, which have been linked to the buildup of amyloid beta in the brain,” said study author, physician Phil Hyu Lee of Yonsei University College of Medicine in Seoul, South Korea. “Not only did our study show that people taking dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors to lower blood sugar levels had less amyloid in their brains overall, it also showed lower levels in areas of the brain involved in Alzheimer’s disease.” The study involved 282 people with an average age of 76 who were followed up to six years. All had been diagnosed with either preclinical, early or probable Alzheimer’s disease. Of the group, 70 people had diabetes and were being treated with dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors, 71 had diabetes but were not being

underlying Alzheimer’s process cannot be stopped or reversed, having a diagnosis helps people with Alzheimer’s and their families plan for the future, take care of financial and legal matters, and develop support networks. Many of us wonder just what is a cognitive test? The truth is, there’s nothing to fear. Just as we’re tested for our vision, hearing and heart health, at some point most of us will be tested for memory and thinking skills. Maybe it’s at an annual checkup or after a concussion, fall, injury or stroke, or you might get screened if there’s concern about neurological or cognitive symptoms.

What is a cognitive test? Cognitive tests screen for possible problems, meaning they look for red flags. They’re meant to be easy as they assess your strengths and weaknesses. They’re not IQ tests that rate how smart you are. There is no single diagnostic test that can determine if a person has Alzheimer’s disease. Physicians (often with the help of specialists such as neurologists, neuropsychologists, geriatricians and geriatric psychiatrists) use a variety of approaches and tools to make a diagnosis. A primary care provider is often where people first discuss their memory or thinking concerns. Some primary care providers perform an initial assessment and full evaluation; many refer patients to a specialist. During the workup, the provider will review your medical history, including psychiatric history and history of cognitive and behavioral changes. The provider will want to know about any current and past medical problems and concerns, as well as your medications. You’ll be asked about key medical conditions affecting other family members, including whether they may have had Alzheimer’s disease or other dementias. Expect to be asked what the date is, who is the current president, about treated with the drugs and 141 did not have diabetes. Those without diabetes were matched to those with diabetes for age, sex, and education levels. All had similar scores on cognitive tests at the start of the study. Participants had brain scans to measure the amount of amyloid in the brain. Researchers found that people with diabetes who took the drugs had lower average amounts of amyloid plaques in the brain compared to people with diabetes who did not take the drugs and compared to people who did not have diabetes. All participants took a common thinking and memory test called the Mini-Mental State Exam (MMSE) on average, every 12 months for 2.5 years. Questions include asking a person to count backward from 100 by sevens or copying a picture on a piece of paper. Scores on the test range from zero to 30. Researchers found that people with diabetes who took the drugs had an average annual decline of 0.87 points on their MMSE score, while people with diabetes who did not take the drugs had an average annual decline of 1.65 points. People without

September 2021 •

Alzheimer’s

your diet, use of alcohol, review of all medications, including over-thecounter drugs and supplements. A physical exam will assess your overall health, with lab work. Be prepared to describe your symptoms, when they began, how often they happen, whether they’ve gotten worse. A family member may be asked to provide input. You’ll be given mental cognitive status testing, which evaluates memory, thinking and simple problem-solving abilities, and a range of everyday mental skills. Each test assesses a different area of the brain. For example, you’ll hear three to five words and be asked recall them a few minutes later, to test your memory. You’ll be asked to identify animals in pictures or generate words starting with a certain letter, to evaluate your language. You’ll compare what similar objects, like a train and a bicycle, have in common, to evaluate your reasoning. You’ll be instructed to draw a clock face, and then show a specific time, to gauge your understanding of numbers, and other skills. A standard workup for Alzheimer’s disease often includes a MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) or CT (computed tomography) scan. Dementia home screening tests are on the market. None of these tests have been scientifically proven to be accurate. Furthermore, the tests can have false positive results, meaning that you could have a result saying you have dementia when in fact you do not. This is unlikely to happen if you see a physician to seek a diagnosis. Home screening tests should not be used as a substitute for a thorough examination by a skilled provider. While many of us experience changes in memory, thinking and behavior as we age, cognitive changes that disrupt daily life are not a typical part of aging. If you or someone you know is experiencing memory or thinking problems, it is important to share these concerns with your doctor. Only a full medical evaluation conducted can determine if symptoms are related to dementia. diabetes scored an average annual decline of 1.48 points. When researchers adjusted for other factors that could affect test scores, they found that the scores of the people taking the drug declined by 0.77 points per year more slowly than the people who did not take the drug. “Our results showing less amyloid in the brains of people taking these medications and less cognitive decline, when compared to people without diabetes raises the possibility that these medications may also be beneficial for people without diabetes who have thinking and memory problems,” said Lee. “More research is needed to demonstrate whether these drugs may have neuroprotective properties in all people.” A limitation of the study was that data were not available to show the accumulation of amyloid in participants’ brains over time. This study does not show cause and effect. It only shows an association. The study was supported by the Korean Healthy Industry Development Institute and the Korean Ministry of Health & Welfare.

IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper

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Page 15

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Page 16

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Ask The Social

Security Ofﬁce

From the Social Security District Office

Retirement Planning Tips for Women

ne day in 1939, Ida May Fuller stopped by the local Social Security office in her hometown of Rutland, Vermont, to inquire about Social Security benefits. She knew she had been paying into Social Security, and wanted to learn more. The following year, she received the very first Social Security benefit payment — $22.54 — arriving as check number 00-000-001. Fuller’s story still holds lessons for women today — and it started with her getting the information she needed. Today, signing up for a personal My Social Security account at www.ssa.gov/myaccount can help you get information tailored for you to plan for your retirement. It’s never too late to start planning. Fuller was 65 years old when she started receiving benefit payments, but she lived well beyond her life expectancy of 65 years, 4 months. In fact, Fuller lived to be 100 years old, and received Social Security benefit payments for 35 years. It’s important to create your personal My Social Security account as soon as possible. With your account, you can view estimates of future

Q&A

Q: I have medical coverage through my employer. Do I have to take Medicare Part B? A: You are not required to take Medicare Part B if you are covered by a group healthcare plan based on either your employment or the employment of a spouse. When your coverage ends, you may contact Social Security to request a special enrollment for Medicare Part B. We will need to verify your coverage through your employer in order for you to be eligible for a special enrollment. For more information, visit www. medicare.gov. Q: My uncle states that he is considered to be 70% disabled through the VA. Does Social Security rate my disability on a percentage scale? A: Social Security does not rate individuals on a percentage scale for disability benefits. For Social Security purposes, a disability is defined as: • A medical condition(s) that must have lasted, or be expected to last, at least one year or ends in death. • The condition must prevent you from performing substantial work. For more information regarding disability benefits, please visit www. ssa.gov/benefits/disability.

IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • September 2021

benefits, verify your earnings and view the estimated Social Security and Medicare taxes you’ve paid. Verifying earnings is important because your future benefit is based on your earnings history. Your Social Security benefit payments will provide only a portion of your pre-retirement income. You may have to save more to have adequate income for your desired lifestyle in retirement. Savings need to be an active part of your plan to take care of yourself and your family’s financial future. Fuller never married. She supported herself. However, you may find yourself widowed or divorced — and having to provide for yourself for several more years. Unlike in Fuller’s day, you can go online to see if you’re eligible at www.ssa.gov/retirement to receive a current, deceased, or former spouse’s benefits. It might make financial sense to claim those benefits instead of your own — since the payments could be higher based on the individual’s own earnings history. We encourage you to follow Ida’s example and plan for your financial future. Please share this information with your friends and family — and help us spread the word on social media.

Q: I have two minor children at home and I plan to retire this fall. Will my children be eligible for monthly Social Security benefits after I retire? A: Monthly Social Security payments may be made to your children if one of the following applies: • They are unmarried and under age 18. • Age 18 or 19 and still in high school. • Age 18 or older, became disabled before age 22, and continue to be disabled. Children who may qualify include a biological child, adopted child, or dependent stepchild. (In some cases, your grandchild also could be eligible for benefits on your record if you are supporting them.) For more information, see our online publication, Benefits For Children, at www.ssa.gov/pubs. Q: If I get Social Security disability benefits and I reach full retirement age, will I then receive retirement benefits? A: Social Security disability benefits automatically change to retirement benefits when disability beneficiaries reach full retirement age. In most cases, the payment amount does not change. The law does not allow a person to receive both retirement and disability benefits simultaneously on one earnings record. To learn more, visit www.ssa.gov.

By Jim Miller

How to Replace Important Documents That Are Lost or Missing Dear Savvy Senior, Can you tell me what I need to do to replace a variety of important documents? Our house burned down a few months ago, and we lost everything including our home property deed, car titles, old tax returns, Social Security, Medicare and COVID-19 vaccine cards, birth certificates, marriage license and passports. Stressed Seniors

Dear Stressed, I’m very sorry for your loss,

but you’ll be relieved to know that replacing important documents that are destroyed, lost or stolen is pretty easy once you know where to turn. Here are the replacement resources for each document you mentioned. • Birth certificates: If you were born in the United States, contact the vital records office in the state where you were born (see CDC.gov/nchs/ w2w/index.htm for contact information). This office will give you specific instructions on what you need to do to order a certified copy and what it will cost you — usually between $10 and $30. • Car titles: Most states offer replacements through a local department of motor vehicles office. You’ll need to complete a replacement title application form and pay the application fee, which varies by state. You’ll also need to show ID and proof that you own the car, such as your vehicle

registration or your license-plate number and VIN (vehicle identification number). To get an application, go to DMV.org, pick your state, and print it or fill it out on the site. • Property deed: To access your house deed, contact your county clerk’s office, where deeds are usually recorded — you may be charged a small fee to get a copy. • Marriage certificate: Contact the vital records office of the state you were married in to order a copy (see CDC.gov/nchs/w2w/index. htm). You’ll need to provide full names for you and your spouse, the date of your wedding, and the city or town where the wedding was performed. Fees range from $10 to $30. • Social Security cards: In most states (except in Alabama, Minnesota, Nevada, New Hampshire, Oklahoma and West Virginia), you can request a replacement Social Security card online for free at SSA. gov/myaccount. If you live in a state that the online service is not available, you’ll need to fill out form SS-5 (see SSA. gov/forms/ss-5.pdf to print a copy) and take it in or mail it to your nearby Social Security office along with a number of evidence documents that are listed on this form. For more information or to locate the Social Security office that serves your area, call 800-772-1213 or see SSA.gov/ locator. • Medicare cards: If you are enrolled in original Medicare, you can replace a lost or damaged Medicare card by calling Medicare at 800-6334227, or by logging into your MyMedicare.gov account. If, however, you get Medicare health or drug benefits from a Medicare Advantage Plan, such as an HMO, PPO,

or PDP, you’ll need to call your plan to get your card replaced. • COVID-19 vaccination card: Your first step is to go back to your vaccination site and see if they’ll give you a replacement. Bring an ID and try to recall the date you were vaccinated. If that’s not feasible, contact your state health department immunization information system (see CDC.gov/vaccines/programs/ iis/contacts-locate-records.html) where you should be able to print out a replacement sheet. • Tax returns: To get copies of old tax returns start with your tax preparer, who usually keeps copies of your returns on file. You can also get copies of federal returns directly from the Internal Revenue Service. You’ll need to fill out and mail in IRS form 4506. To download this form IRS.gov/pub/irs-pdf/f4506.pdf or call 800-829-3676 and ask them to mail you a copy. The cost is $43 for each return requested. • Passports: You can apply for a replacement passport at a Passport Application Acceptance Facility. Many post offices, public libraries and local government offices serve as such facilities. You can search for the nearest authorized facility at iafdb. travel.state.gov. The fee is $145.

Send your senior questions to: Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070, or visit SavvySenior. org. Jim Miller is a contributor to the NBC Today show and author of “The Savvy Senior” book.

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Excellus BlueCross BlueShield is an HMO plan and a PPO plan with a Medicare contract. Enrollment in Excellus BlueCross BlueShield depends on contract renewal. Our Health Plan complies with applicable Federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, or sex. ATENCIÓN: si habla español, tiene a su disposición servicios gratuitos de asistencia lingüística. Llame al 1-877-883-9577 (TTY: 711). 注意：如果您使用繁體中文，您可以免費獲得語言援助服務。請致電 1-877-883-9577 (TTY: 711)。 A nonprofit independent licensee of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association September 2021 •

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Health News Excellus Addresses Health Disparities in Upstate New York with New Health Equity Awards

racism. Inclusion, diversity, equity and access are fundamental to our organizational culture,” says Excellus BlueCross BlueShield President and CEO Jim Reed. “We have and will continue to commit ourselves to the equitable treatment of all people and the elimination of discrimination in all its forms.” Excellus BlueCross BlueShield operates in 31 Upstate New York counties, organized into four regions: the Rochester region, encompassing Health Equity categoLivingston, Monroe, Onries include: tario, Seneca, Wayne and • Improving the comYates counties; the Central munity’s physical health New York region, which and mental health includes Cayuga, Cortland, • Reducing social disOnondaga, Oswego and parities in health care Tompkins counties; the • Ensuring access to Southern Tier region, inhealth care cluding Broome, Chemung, For additional informaChenango, Tioga, Schuyler tion and the online appliand Steuben counties; and cation, please visit www. the Utica region, comprisexcellusbcbs.com/coming Clinton, Delaware, Joseph Searles munity, scroll to “NEW! Essex, Franklin, Fulton, Health Equity Awards” and click Hamilton, Herkimer, Jefferson, Lew“submit application.” is, Madison, Montgomery, Oneida, Proposals that have detailed Otsego and St. Lawrence counties. scope, goals, rationale for support, The company’s corporate giving and measures will receive the stronfollows all applicable laws and regugest consideration. Award winners lations and does not support funding will be announced in late October. organizations that conflict with its “As a company, we condemn corporate mission, goals, policies or hatred, discrimination, violence and products. injustice. We believe we all have a role to play in dismantling systemic

Nonprofit organizations are invited to apply for grants of up to $30,000. Deadline is Sept. 17

ecognizing structural racism as a driving force of health inequities and a barrier to its goal of health equity, Excellus BlueCross BlueShield invites nonprofit organizations to apply for Health Equity Awards of up to $30,000 each to help fund health and wellness programs that address racial and ethnic health disparities in Upstate New York. Jim Reed The application period opened Aug. 17 and closes at midnight, Sept. 17. “Excellus BlueCross BlueShield made a pledge to our employees, members and communities that we will use our influence and resources to effect change,” says Excellus BlueCross BlueShield Corporate Diversity Relations Director Joseph Searles. “Through community investments

such as this, we strive to improve access to care, advance specific health outcomes and support organizations in our community that share our mission.” Nonprofit, 501(c)(3) organizations in Excellus BlueCross BlueShield’s service territory are invited to apply for Health Equity Awards. Proposals must include clear, defined goals for reducing health disparities and improving health equity in communities of color, especially within Black and Latino communities, where historic and current racism and discrimination continues to result in a higher burden of health inequities and social disadvantages. Organizations will be required to specify how funding will measurably assist in improving racial and ethnic health equity outcomes.

Muscle specialist opens New Hartford site

in Central New York communities, treating conditions from carpal tunnel syndrome to low back pain, whiplash and many others. His Seneca Falls site has been featured in an article that appears on Forbes.com. For more information, see https://kabariwellness.com/ new-hartford.

Chiropractor and muscle activation professional Kingsley Kabari has opened a site in New Hartford following the success of Kabari Wellness Institute in Seneca Falls, in the Finger Lakes region. Located at 50 Genesee Kingsley Kabari St. in the village of New Hartford, the Start to Fit gym and Kabari Chiropractic are attached in the same building. Kabari is a health and fitness specialist who is the only practitioner of advanced muscle kinetics (AMK) in New York state, according to a news release issued by his practice. The AMK process allows him to test and check integrity of muscles and neurologically reactivate malfunctioning muscles and connect them back to the central nervous system. “AMK treatment helps patients recover from chronic conditions and injuries faster and has proven to be a superior method of treatment for pain relief,” Kabari said. “For those without injuries, AMK helps to unlock full potential so people can perform at peak levels in numerous activities.” From his arrival in the U.S. as a 15-year-old refugee from Nigeria, Kabari learned English, graduated from college and now focuses on wellness Page 18

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Rome Health earns 5-star nursing home rating Rome Health’s Residential Health Care Facility (RHCF) earned the highest five-star national nursing home rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), according to the most recent report updated July 28. The RHCF is one of only 24% of skilled nursing facilities nationally to receive an overall rating of 5-stars, which takes into consideration the facility’s performance on health inspections, staffing levels and quality of resident care measures. “We are deeply grateful to our staff for the exceptional care that they provide each and every day to our residents,” said Director of Nursing Jon Vander Pyl. “Although the pandemic has challenged us in unprecedented ways, our staff never faltered in delivering the care that our residents deserved and needed, especially when they were isolated from their families and friends.” According to Vander Pyl, the residents and staff have been overjoyed to be able to resume activities and outings. “We recently went on a field trip to the Boxing Hall of Fame. It

was really heartwarming to see their reactions,” he said. The RHCF, an 80-bed skilled nursing facility which is located on the hospital’s third floor, provides long-term care, as well as short-term rehab and respite care programs. Rome Health’s nursing home has consistently earned recognition as a top performing nursing home. The RHCF is the only facility in Oneida County to be ranked among the top 20% of nursing homes statewide through the Nursing Home Quality Initiative (NHQI) for seven consecutive years, Vander Pyl noted. In addition, the RHCF was rated a Best Nursing Home by U.S. News & World Report for short-term rehab for two consecutive years. “Our staff takes great pride in providing exceptional care with compassion,” said RHCF Administrator Anthony Joseph. “Everyone from our CNAs, nurses, housekeepers, therapists, maintenance, social services, dietary, and activities departments play a part in achieving excellence and making this a special place for our residents and short-term rehabilitation patients.”

MVHS services recognized by US News for high performance US News and World report has recently recognized a number of Mohawk Valley Health System (MVHS) services as high performing as part of the magazine’s 2021-22 Best Hospitals rankings and ratings. MVHS services that were iden-

IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • September 2021

tified as high performing include: heart attack, heart failure, hip replacement and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) at the St. Elizabeth Campus and Stroke Care at the St. Luke’s Campus. The yearly report is aimed at providing patients and their providers with data-driven ratings in different procedures and conditions which then can be used when researching the best place to have procedures performed. “We are very pleased have our services recognized for their commitment to quality care and patient outcomes,” said Darlene Stromstad, president and CEO of MVHS. “Our goal is to provide our patients with the exceptional care they deserve in every service we provide, and recognitions like these are validation that we are on the right path.” MVHS also received positive ratings in both staff responsiveness and nurse communication. “As an organization, we are constantly striving to respond to our patients’ needs in a timely manner and to provide clear communication,” Stromstad continued. “Every single caregiver, from doctors and nurses to support services, plays their part in achievements like these.” According to US News and World Report, the data used in the 2021-22 Best Hospitals report are largely based on objective measures including risk-adjusted survival and discharge-to-home rates, volume and quality of nursing, among other care-related indicators. The ratings are intended to help patients begin their search for care and should be used in consultation with a medical professional.

Health News Oneida Health relocates services of Maternal Health Center

neida Health will close its downtown Maternal Health Center clinic, a Medicaid-assisted pregnancy program, and move those services to its Women’s Health practice located on Oneida Health’s main campus in Oneida. The timing of the decision was the result of a office expansion of Women’s Health in the fall of 2020 as well as recent changes in provider staffing at the clinic.

“Moving our OB Medicaid services to our Women’s Health practice will permit us to continue to provide exceptional obstetrical care and now also provide GYN care which was not provided in the current clinic setting,” said Gene Morreale, president and CEO of Oneida Health. “With the relocation, patients will benefit from on-site ultrasound, adjacent laboratory services, and will have a regular obstetrician rather than the

18 Local Nonprofit Organizations to Receive Excellus’ Community Health Awards Excellus BlueCross BlueShield has awarded a total of $214,000 in community health awards to 53 nonprofit organizations in Upstate New York to support local organizations with improving community health, including 18 organizations in the Utica region. Through a competitive application process, Excellus BlueCross BlueShield’s Community Health Awards help fund programs that improve the health or health care of a specific population, programs that aim to improve the health status of the community, closes the gaps in health disparities, reduces the incidence of specific diseases, promotes health education and assists our communities in dealing with COVID. “The company’s Community Health Awards demonstrate a corporate commitment to support local organizations that share our mission as a nonprofit health plan,” said Eve Van de Wal, Utica regional president of Excellus BlueCross BlueShield. “These awards complement our existing grants and sponsorships with agencies that work to enhance quality of life, including health status, in upstate New York.” The 18 nonprofit organizations in the Utica region chosen to receive Excellus BlueCross BlueShield’s Community Health Award Funding are: • Cape Vincent Improvement League (Cape Vincent) — Funds support a Community Garden maintained by Cape Vincent Improvement League. One hundred percent of the Community Garden crop is donated to the local food pantry to be distributed to those at risk of hunger. • Center for Family Life and Recovery, Inc. (Utica) — Funding supports Recovery & Prevention Services: HOPE Builds a Future of Wellness. This program provides bags of HOPE for distribution throughout our communities. HOPE bags contain contacts of local available resources, face masks and sanitizer, sensory items such as stress balls, soft blankets, and stuffed animals. Journals are also included to promote self-reflection and incorporate wellness and positive reinforcement into the daily lives of the individuals they serve. • Claxton-Hepburn Medical Center Foundation (Ogdensburg) — Funding

supports the $25 Feeds Five: Cooking with CHMC program. This program encourages healthier at-home cooking, especially during the pandemic and winter months, by combine the home-chef box concept with an in-house cooking show that guides participants through healthy meal preparation. • Clinton Chamber of Commerce (Clinton) – Funding supports the Clinton Farmers Market – Power of Produce Kids Club. This program provides a fun opportunity for children to learn about their local food system through conversations with farmers, educational games, and exposure to new fruits and vegetables. Each child receives two $1 tokens weekly to spend at the farmer’s market. • Community Rehab Project, Inc. (Utica) – Funding supports their Aging In Place program. This program provides services and equipment to support independent living for older adults and individuals with disability through therapy, wellness, fall prevention, and home modification. • Cooperstown Food Pantry, Inc. (Cooperstown) – Funding supports the Farmers’ Market Voucher program. This program provides farmers market vouchers to families who participate in the Cooperstown Food Pantry to purchase fresh produce at the Cooperstown Farmers’ Market. • Herkimer County HealthNet (Herkimer) – Funding is in support of their effort to increase access to healthcare through providing transportation resources in the northern and southern sectors of Herkimer County. Over the last 10 years, the need for transportation to medical appointments and specialized care in Herkimer County has grown significantly. • Joint Council for Economic Opportunity of Clinton and Franklin Counties, Inc. (Plattsburg) – Funding supports the JCEO/Cornerstone “Farmacy”. This program brings fresh and local produce, dairy, meat and bulk spices to a pharmacy in Rouses Point, a rural location without a grocery store nearby. • Literacy of Northern New York, Inc. (Watertown) – Funding is used to support the training of advanced, English as a second language (ESL), students to provide translation services to assist low-level English

physician group providers rotating through the clinic which has been the case. Post-delivery, patients will also receive their GYN services and annual visits at Women’s Health. This experience will help ensure a better continuity of care and we believe, a patient experience second to none.” Previously, patients of the Maternal Health Center would often be required to travel to different offices to receive ancillary services not available in the clinic. The Maternal Health Center was opened by Oneida Health as a Medicaid and prenatal care assistance program (PCAP) in 1994. Originally

speakers with communicating with medical professionals. This service will be used by ESL members of the community to schedule medical, dental, and other health appointments, as well as for translation assistance during medical office visits. • Little Falls Community Outreach, LLC (Little Falls) – Funding supports the food backpack program. This program provides backpacks filled with food to area children and their families who are experiencing food insecurity. • Masonic Care Community of New York (Utica) — The award supports Masonic Care Community’s telehealth program and will provide additional computer resources to support resident telehealth visits. • Mohawk Valley Latino Association, Inc. (Utica) – Funding was awarded in support of the creation of La Abundancia, a communal space and garden in the Cornhill neighborhood of Utica. This permaculture demonstration garden will be designed by 20 multicultural, multigenerational students. La Abundancia will provide the local community with free healthy food, community support, and a common place to gather for celebrating community and tradition. • Mohawk Valley Resource Center for Refugees (The Center) (Utica) – Funding supports Yoga Classes for Diverse Populations. Classes are led by a local, certified yoga instructor and are designed to support both physical and mental well-being. Classes are free and open to the public. • Pathﬁnder Village, Inc. (Edmeston) – Funding supports the Mobile Market Senior Services Project. This program extends produce vouchers to area seniors with limited income, food insecurity, and limited transportation, providing access to fresh fruits and vegetables. Produce is delivered to those in need along with healthy recipes, cooking tips, and cards containing positive messages created by enrollees of Pathfinder’s Adult Day Services for adults with intellectual disabilities. • Samaritan Counseling Center of the Mohawk Valley (Utica) – Funding supports group counseling sessions offered through telehealth. These counseling sessions are designed for individuals recovering from COVID-19, those with long-term effects from the virus, and those caring for someone with COVID-19. • Samaritan Medical Center (Watertown) – Funding will help to expand the home healthcare monitoring program. Samaritan Medical Center

September 2021 •

located in the Northside Shopping Center, it moved to its current Broad Street location in 2015. Women’s Health expanded its offices in to two locations on Oneida Health’s campus in the fall of 2020. Oneida Health plans on opening a new, modern Women’s Health building in Oneida in the spring of 2022. Oneida Health will provide over 600 obstetrical deliveries this year at the hospital’s Lullaby Center, which was recently designated a Blue Distinction Centers+ (BDC+) for Maternity Care by Excellus BlueCross BlueShield for providing the highest quality of maternity care.

Excellus BlueCross BlueShield Utica Regional President Eve Van de Wal gives Power of Produce Kids Club tokens to the Townsend family (Michelle, Vance, Everett, and Maverick) at the Clinton Farmers Market.

will purchase up to 40 medical-grade pulse oximeters, small devices which measure patients’ oxygen saturation levels. These instruments will be issued to outpatients whose oxygenation-related symptoms are not severe enough to require hospitalization, so that their conditions can be monitored at home. • Ticonderoga Area Backpack Program, Inc. (Ticonderoga) — This program provides backpacks filled with nutritious food to area children and their families who are experiencing food insecurity. • Volunteer Transportation Center, Inc. (Watertown) —The mission of the VTC is to provide transportation to health, wellness, and critical needs destinations for those who have barriers to transportation, regardless of their ability to pay. Excellus BlueCross BlueShield is committed to supporting local organizations that improve community health. The company’s corporate giving follows all applicable laws and regulations and does not support funding organizations that conflict with its corporate mission, goals, policies or products. Excellus BlueCross BlueShield’s Utica region encompasses Clinton, Delaware, Essex, Franklin, Fulton, Hamilton, Herkimer, Jefferson, Lewis, Madison, Montgomery, Oneida, Otsego and St. Lawrence counties.

IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper

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