IGH - MV #184, JUNE 2021

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JUNE 2021 • ISSUE 184

Kids' Health Special Tactics for Easing Back Into Life

MEET YOUR DOCTOR

Physician Tallat Mahmood is the new medical director of Hospice & Palliative Care. She wants to spread the word about value of hospice care early on

RISE RCOC: PATHWAY TO RECOVERY Herkimer County agency is a place where those working to remain sober can find support, friendship, assistance, a listening ear and more

What it means to mingle, socialize, and be doing things again Page 18

U.S. Birth Rates Continue to Fall The 2020 rate, the lowest since 1979, raises concern about the economic effects of declining population levels

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he baby “boom” that some expected during last year’s pandemic lockdowns has turned into a baby “bust.”

The U.S. birth rate continued to drop in 2020, marking the sixth consecutive year with fewer babies born in America and raising concerns about the economic effects of declining population levels.

There were about 3.6 million babies born in the United States last year, down 4% from the 3.75 million born in 2019, according to researchers from the U.S. National Center for Health Statistics.

It’s the lowest number of births

in America since 1979, the report noted.

“Early on, some experts had speculated that births might increase due to people having more time at home, but as the pandemic worsened it became clear the rate was falling,” said physician Scott Sullivan, professor of obstetrics and gynecology at the Medical University of South Carolina.

“A 4% drop is in the mid-range of what people expected,” Sullivan continued. “I think a combination of fear, economic insecurity, families dealing with actual infections and recovery, disruptions in health services

and other factors likely contributed to the decline.”

The general fertility rate in the United States in 2020 was about 55.8 births per 1,000 women, down 4% from the rate of 58.3 births in 2019 and another record low for the nation, said the researchers, who were led by natality expert Brady Hamilton.

And the projected number of births U.S. women might expect to have in their lifetimes — also known as the total fertility rate — declined again in 2020.

The total fertility rate for the United States in 2020 was 1,637 births per 1,000 women, down 4% from the 1,706 projected lifetime births in 2019.

These numbers are below what’s known as the “replacement level” — the level at which a generation can exactly replace itself and maintain the nation’s population level, the report said.

There must be 2,100 births per 1,000 women to meet this level. U.S. birth rates have been generally below replacement levels since 1971 and consistently below replacement since 2007, the report said.

“It could result in serious economic issues in the future, as there may not be younger workers to drive the economy or even help [take] care of the older generations,” Sullivan said.

Waiting longer

This continued decline in birth rates “has been observed around the globe,” Sullivan said. “Japan and Russia have seen longer and more severe declines, for example.”

The cost of having and raising kids — day care, housing, education — has been a contributing factor that

has led many young couples to delay starting a family or choose not to have kids at all, Sullivan said.

“We have the worst family leave in the developed world, for example,” Sullivan said. “Day care is expensive and sometimes hard to get. The cost of education and levels of student debt are high and getting worse.”

But one expert believes many women, and couples, simply may be putting their focus on things other than child-rearing.

“There are a multitude of reasons people are waiting,” said physician Nicole Noyes, chief of endocrinology and infertility at Northwell Health in New York City. “The number one reason to delay childbearing is the desire to experience life and reach goals before being saddled with the responsibilities of early child rearing.”

“Let’s face it, having children is a commitment, in time, energy and emotion,” she added. “In addition, people most often don’t want to have children unless they are in a relationship conducive to childbearing.

Other major reasons include the perceived need to advance one’s career or having greater financial security before parenthood. To that end, more and more people are freezing their eggs [or embryos] to try to up the odds of having a child later–when they are “ready.”

There’s some evidence from the new data that couples are indeed delaying having kids until later in life.

Birth rates for women between 40 and 54 remained essentially unchanged between 2019 and 2020, even as the rates fell for younger age categories, the report found.

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

U.S. COVID-19 Outlook Shows Improvement by July

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he United States could see a sharp decline in COVID-19 cases by the end of July, according to a new report from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Six research teams asked to project future COVID-19 trends have concluded that new infections will drastically drop in July and continue to fall through September, the researchers reported May 5 in the Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report.

However, “substantial increases” in hospitalizations and deaths from COVID-19 are expected to occur if people stop taking basic pandemic precautions, such as wearing masks and maintaining social distance from others.

The CDC asked the research teams to estimate future COVID-19 cases, hospitalizations and deaths based on four scenarios, including high or low vaccination rates, and

high or low adherence to mask wearing, social distancing and other infection control measures.

COVID-19 cases are projected to increase through May, the teams found. That’s due to the increased prevalence of the British B.1.1.7 coronavirus variant, as well as the relaxation of pandemic restrictions across the nation.

But a sharp decline in COVID-19 cases is expected to occur in July, despite vaccination rates or personal adherence to infection control measures, the teams reported. The decline will be faster in scenarios featuring high vaccination rates.

“We are not out of the woods yet, but we could be very close,” CDC director and physician Rochelle Walensky told the Associated Press, noting that variants of the coronavirus are a “wild card” that could set back progress.

Woman Gives Birth to Nine Babies

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Malian woman who had been expecting seven babies gave birth to nine instead, and the mother, five girls and four boys «are all doing well,» Mali›s health minister said last month.

The babies were born by cesarean section in Morocco, where their 25-year-old mother, Halima Cisse, had been sent for special care, the Associated Press reported.

The nonuplets were placed in incubators in the private Ain Borja clinic in Casablanca.

The case appears to be the first on record of a woman giving birth to nine surviving babies at once, the AP reported.

Cisse gave birth prematurely at 30 weeks and is now in stable condition after heavy bleeding for which she was given a blood transfusion, the AP reported.

The Guinness Book of World Records told the AP that its current record for most living births at once is eight, and that it is verifying the Morocco births.

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June 2021 •

IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper

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Stressed, BurnedOut Nurses Make More Medical Errors: Study

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ritical care nurses with poor mental and physical health are more likely to make mistakes, but a more supportive work environment could improve the situation, a new study suggests.

“It’s critically important that we understand some of the root causes that lead to those errors and do everything we can to prevent them,” said lead author Bernadette Melnyk, dean of the College of Nursing at Ohio State University.

For the study, researchers surveyed nearly 800 members of the American Association of Critical-Care Nurses. Sixty-one percent of respondents reported subpar physical health and 51% reported subpar mental health.

About 40% of the nurses screened positive for depressive symptoms and more than half for anxiety.

Those who reported worse health and well-being were between 31% and 62% more likely to make medical errors.

Nurses who said their employer provided greater support for well-being were more than twice as likely to have better personal health and professional quality of life than those whose workplace provided little or no support.

The findings were published May 1 in the American Journal of Critical Care.

“It’s clear that critical care nurses, like so many other clinicians, cannot continue to pour from an empty cup,” Melnyk said in a university news release.

“System problems that contribute to burnout and poor health need to be fixed,” she said. “Nurses need support and investment in evidence-based programming and resources that enhance their well-being and equip them with resiliency so they can take optimal care of patients.”

Researchers noted that the study was conducted before the COVID-19 pandemic, so it’s likely that levels of stress, anxiety and depression among critical care nurses are even higher now.

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Meet

Your Doctor

By Barbara Pierce

Tallat Mahmood, M.D New director of Hospice & Palliative Care talks about the organization’s mission, wants to spread the word about value of hospice care early on Q.: What led you to take the position of medical director of Hospice & Palliative Care?

A.: I’ve always enjoyed hospice work. I learned of this opportunity from a friend and interviewed for the position. I left the Karmanos Cancer Institute in Detroit because I would like to do more teaching and research, which am able to do here.

Q.: Tell us a bit about the organization’s mission. Å: The mission of Hospice & Palliative Care is to is to provide quality, compassionate end-of-life care, to help alleviate patient and family suffering and to promote patient quality of life for chronically and seriously ill patients.

Q.: What’s the difference between a hospice program and a palliative care program?

A.: Patients in the hospice care program have a prognosis of six months or less to live. Patients in our palliative care program are dealing with a serious or chronic illness; they’re not terminally ill. We provide support to help patients have a better quality of life, coordinate care and treatment with their doctors and help patients manage symptoms of their illness, so that they can maintain the most comfortable and independent life possible.

Q.: As medical director, what goals do you have that will carry out the mission of Hospice & Palliative Care?

A.: I believe it’s important that we, as oncologists, look after our patients from diagnosis to hospice and death. We must provide the full continuum of care. I promoted this value in Michigan and will continue to promote it here. This includes the need for us to talk to patients who aren’t going to be cured. If we don’t talk to them about the end stage of their disease, we are doing them a disservice. I hope to be able to influence others on this important issue.

Q.: What else is important to you as medical director of Hospice & Palliative Care?

A.: Another thing I would like people to know is this: When hospice care is mentioned, people will push back. They’ll say “I don’t need hospice; I’m feeling good.” But hospice is not just for the last three days of life. I’d like people to know the value of getting hospice involved early on.

There are so many advantages to this. When we become involved, we can provide more services that will support you and your family. We will help you and your family prepare for the changes and challenges you will face. Also, it is a chance for you and your family to work with and devel-

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

op a relationship with our staff, who are experts in the challenges of endof-life illness. In hospice, your pain and your symptoms are addressed before they reach the crisis point. You do want to avoid a crisis where, all of a sudden, you need to be admitted to the hospital, or your pain is out of control. I urge people to get hospice involved early on.

Q.: We understand that you teach at SUNY Upstate Medical University Hospital?

A.: Yes, I am an assistant professor of medicine, teaching hematology and oncology. I enjoy the opportunity to teach.

Q.: What is important to you outside of hospice?

A.: I’m involved in Smile Train charity, which provides corrective surgery for children with cleft lips and palates. Also, Habitat for Humanity, a nonprofit that provides housing for low-income families.

And I support Edhi Trust, a charity in Pakistan that looks after orphans.

Q.: As a new resident of Central New York, what’s your opinion?

A.: I’m still getting used to it. I’ve only been here a few months. One thing I’ve noticed is that it takes me a lot longer to get where I’m trying to go; it takes twice as long to go 30 miles as it did in Michigan.

Lifelines Birth place: Lahore, Pakistan Current residence: Fayetteville Professional: Assistant professor of medicine at SUNY Upstate; New Hartford-based Hospice & Palliative Care Education: Board-certified in internal medicine and hematology/oncology.

Medical degree from Aga Khan University Medical College in Karachi, Pakistan; residency in internal medicine at West Virginia University: Hematology/Oncology Fellowship at Tulane University of Louisiana School of Medicine.

Personal: Married, four children Hobbies: Hiking, kayaking, and skiing

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Healthcare in a Minute

By George W. Chapman

Private Practices Continue to Shrink in Numbers

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he number of physicians in private practice continues to decline. According to an AMA survey of 3,500 physicians, 49% responded they were in private practice. This is down from 54% in 2018. It is the first time the number has fallen below 50% and the trend will most likely continue. Younger physicians and recent grads show a preference or proclivity for employment, eschewing private practice altogether throughout their careers.

Employment options for physicians are numerous, including: hospital systems, federally sponsored clinics,

Drug Ads: $147 million in April While hospital and physician prices are established and controlled by Medicare and commercial insurers, drug costs are not. Specialty drug costs are especially out of control, now accounting for 52% of overall drug costs. Drug companies spent a combined $147 million in just April on the top 10 specialty drugs which generate huge profits. Anyone, who watches even a minimal amount of TV, will recall these top seven ubiquitous ads ranked by spending: No. 1 Humira for Crohn’s disease; No. 2 Dupixent for inflammation; No. 3 Rybelsus for diabetes; No. 4 Trulicity for diabetes; No. 5 Rinvoq for rheumatoid arthritis; No. 6 Skyrizi for psoriasis; and No. 7 Tremfya for psoriasis.

Biden’s Healthcare Priorities 1. Let CMS finally negotiate drug prices which would save us billions a year. 2. Lower the deductible for insurance plans sold on the exchanges. Families struggling to make ends meet often delay getting care due to high out of pocket expenses. 3. Invest more money in research and development to cure cancer, Alzheimer’s

the AHA fear the untoward impact of the massive consolidation of healthcare data under one company.

independent urgent care practices and national chains like CVS, Walgreens and Walmart expanding into primary care. Baby boomer physicians, at or approaching retirement, are more apt to sell their practices to hospitals systems as their exit strategy because younger physicians show little interest in buying into private practice. Competition from better financed large hospital systems and corporations, increasing overhead costs and ever-changing reimbursement and regulations, have contributed to the virtual surrender of private practice. and diabetes development. Priorities No. 2 and No. 3 easily paid for by billions saved by priority No. 1.

But with Washington gridlocked by partisan politics, seemingly nothing gets done.

Hospital Rating System Overhauled CMS has employed a 5-star rating system for both hospitals and nursing homes. Stakeholders (providers, consumers and payers) have criticized the logic, methodology and predictability of the five star system.

Consequently, CMS has overhauled the system to make it less complex, easier to understand and more useful. Five basic measures now form the foundation: mortality, safety, readmissions, overall patient experience and timeliness/effectiveness of treatment. The AHA said it is happy with the changes, but more needs to be done. There are 4,580 eligible hospitals for the rating system. Of those rated, 14% received 5 stars; 29% received 4 stars; 30% received 3 stars; 21% received two stars; and 6% received just one. 26% of the 4,580 eligible hospitals were unrated.

Hospital Pricing Transparency

Mergers, Acquisitions and Anti-trust Hospitals mergers have often resulted in sole provider of care in a market. Consequently they are under Department of Justice scrutiny. The fear is, without competition, prices will begin to rise ultimately costing consumers. But…. in many of these cases, without merging, several smaller hospitals in underserved areas would close. It is a case of survival versus anti-trust. Because hospital reimbursement is virtually set by both government and commercial insurers, there is negligible profit in the hospital business. It is an entirely different situation when highly profitable commercial insurers begin to gobble up the competition. It is rarely, if ever, a question of survival. The American Anti-trust Institute is urging the DOJ to disapprove insurance giant United Health Group’s $13 billion acquisition of data analytic company Change Healthcare.

UHG already owns data analytic company Optum. Both the AAI and

There was a PSA aired during the recent Oscars broadcast advocating hospital price transparency. “Powerto thepatients.org.” It is certainly well intentioned. But as discussed in my previous columns, the requirement for hospitals to post online their prices for 300 shoppable procedures is fraught with problems. There is no standardized reporting format, making it virtually impossible for consumers to navigate and make informed decisions. Some hospitals posted charges or prices while others posted negotiated insurance rates.

Some hospitals did nothing. Consumers that are part of an organized healthcare system have little choice as to where they receive care so shopping around for prices is a fool’s errand. Consequently, CMS no longer requires hospitals to post negotiated prices with commercial Medicare Advantage plans. If nothing changes, this may be the harbinger of the end of the well intentioned pricing transparency requirement altogether.

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Businesses Frustrated Businesses have long preferred free market solutions to industry problems, but not so much when it comes to healthcare. They are frustrated with out of control costs and pouring more money into our fragmented and inefficient healthcare system. A recent survey of more than 300 businesses, jointly sponsored by the Kaiser Family Foundation and the Purchaser Business Group, revealed an astounding 85% want the government to increase its role in managing costs and coverage during the next 10 years. 92% want the DOJ to step up its anti-trust activities as mergers and acquisition have tended to reduce competition and increase prices.

Uber/Lyft

With normal business and casual ridership way down since the pandemic, both companies are going even deeper into medical transport.

They are forming more partnerships with commercial Medicare (Advantage) plans and state Medicaid plans to get people to their appointments. Savvy insurers realize missed appointments could ultimately cost them more in higher medical expenses down the road when maladies go undetected and therefore not prevented. Paying for rides keeps overall claims down as clients stay in touch with their providers. Uber and Lyft have programs that interface with provider electronic medical records systems like Cerner. They are also expanding their Rx delivery services, like NimbleRx, as well.

George W. Chapman is a healthcare business consultant who works exclusively with physicians, hospitals and healthcare organizations. He operates GW Chapman Consulting based in Syracuse. Email him at gwc@gwchapmanconsulting.com.

IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper

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Live Alone & Thrive

By Gwenn Voelckers

We may think we are nurturing our garden, but of course it’s our garden that is really nurturing us.”

Practical tips, advice and hope for those who live alone

Cocoon No More: It’s Time to Get Our Hands Dirty!

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he COVID-19 pandemic has inspired a rebirth of interest in all things gardening. So, let’s dig in!

As we emerge from over a year of cocooning, time spent outdoors with our flowering friends is providing a welcome respite from the feelings of isolation many of us have been experiencing. It sure has been for me.

What better time than now to reflect on the life lessons that gardening offers to those who live alone or have been sheltering in place. It has taught me the value of planning, preparation, patience, and pleasure — four essential “P’s” for a bountiful garden and ... a bountiful life.

Fertile ground exists in each of us, and a little tending can produce glorious results.

Here’s what I have learned: • Plan. Realizing the garden of your dreams begins in your imagination, followed by careful planning.

Diagram your garden and it will help you avoid planting bulbs on top of

bulbs or mistaking a poppy for a weed.

Likewise, envisioning your life goals and committing them to writing can help you flourish and grow.

• Cultivate. Good, cultivated soil promotes healthy, deep roots. When you add fertilizer to your garden you are rewarded with abundance. Adding essential ingredients to the foundation of your dream garden (and your dream life) will nourish all that follows.

You can’t go wrong with good, nutritious food; a walk in nature; a good book; soothing music; or saying “yes” to a new adventure that’s been tugging at your heart.

• Plant. So many choices! Revisit your plan and embed your carefully selected seeds or seedlings with a tender, loving touch, being careful not to overcrowd or plant more than you can manage.

And remember: We reap what we sow, so follow your plan. Plant a rose and you get a rose; plant a dandelion and you get a dandelion. Seed

Jenny Uglow your future with healthy choices that promote well-being.

• Weed. We all need room to breathe and positive space in which to blossom. It holds true for your garden and your life. Gardening is all about consistent caretaking. Slack off, even for a few days, and all things unwelcome show up and take root.

Weed out the negativity and any dream-stealing toxins that contaminate your life, dash your hopes, or spoil your fun. When you pull out the bad, you can more easily focus on the good in your life.

• Prune. When weeding is not enough, a major pruning may be just what the arborist ordered. A job, relationship or home that no longer satisfies or meets your needs may need a hard look. It may be time to pull out that pair of “life loppers.”

• Mulch. Mulching keeps weeds at bay and the ground moist, and returns nutrients to the soil. It also adds a finishing touch.

Mulch offers a blanket of protection, in the same way that regular

doctor appointments, insurances, and safety measures protect our lives. We can learn a lot from mulching.

• Wait. We’ve all heard that “good things come to those who wait.” When we exercise patience, go slowly, and enjoy the gradual unfolding of a flower, an idea, or a friendship, your life can be savored and more deeply appreciated.

Each year, I look to my garden to remind me that growth takes time.

• Enjoy. Before you know it, your labor of love and patience will pay off. Take pleasure in the transformation as the colors, textures, and fragrances emerge. Too often, we fail to “stop and smell the roses” in our gardens and in our lives.

By osmosis, gardening has taught me how to take better care of myself. I have absorbed its rich messages and learned how to nurture my inner garden and growth as a woman on her own.

I encourage you to grab a spade and join me. Beauty, growth, and an energizing sense of renewal can be yours this month.

It’s June and time to get our hands dirty!

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

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

Get ready for the summer you’ve been waiting for!

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with Rachel Daughtry

Director at Compassion Coalition, which helps feed the needy, says agencies elsewhere are looking to replicate its model

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Q: Describe Compassion Coalition, how long have you been around and how did the organization get started?

A: Compassion Coalition was founded in 1999 and launched in 2000 out of the need for people to have food. My father, Pastor Michael Servello, realized this need. Compassion Coalition also founded Bargain Grocer, which funds our operation.

The Bargain Grocer located in Utica sells healthy foods at reasonable prices.

Q: Where does the Bargain Grocer obtain its food?

A: We have local as well as regional farmers donating food to us and international companies who also donate, but that said, we also purchase food from the farmers.

These are produce that might have a slight blemish on them but otherwise are in perfect condition. Because of Bargain Grocer, Compassion Coalition in 2020 was able to donate more than 20 million dollars worth of products, food and non-food items to people in need. We started off just by offering food at reasonable prices, but now we offer many different products like furniture, personal hygiene products, clothes etc. We also work with more than 80 schools locally and regionally to fill the gap of needed products.

Q: Who are the people that receive your services?

A: We work with 125 nonprofits

- Rome Sentinel, 1/24/2021

of MADISON COUNTY (800) 342-9871 (315) 427-3122 (315) 697-5700

Interview by David Podos

ompassion Coalition located in Utica is an entrepreneurial-based nonprofit focusing on community based giving, meeting needs as they arise. It has a budget of $2 million and a staff of 40.

For answers to all your questions Contact us at 800-342-9871 or call one of the NY Connects partnering agencies at 315-697-5700 (Madison Office for the Aging) or 315-427-3122 (ARISE). You may also1/26/2021 look for services and support at www.nyconnects.ny.gov

locally and regionally, that’s throughout the Mohawk Valley and all the way out to Syracuse. Our products are going directly to the families homes of the clientele that these notfor-profits serve. We also work with local/regional schools.

Q: How did COVID-19 affect your organization?

A: If you recall, when the virus hit and things began to shut down, if you walked into a local grocer many of the aisles were empty or near empty; so we had to jump right into action. For instance, many food pantries were running low on food.

Full tractor-trailer loads of food that were bought by us and headed to the Bargain Grocer to sell; we wound up giving it away to local food pantries through out the area.

Q: What does the future look like for the Compassion Coalition and the Bargain Grocer?

A: The future looks really great.

Other regional communities are looking to replicate our model and would come under our corporate umbrella here in Utica. When the national companies who donate to our cause come and see our operation, they too want to replicate our model in their communities. So, we are very excited.

CALL NOW TO HEAR ABOUT SUMMER SPECIALS

The Compassion Coalition is located at 509 Lafayette St. in Utica. Hours of operation are: Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Call 315-2660039. The Bargain Grocer is located at 1110 Lincoln Ave. in Utica, New York.

Hours of operation are: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Monday to Saturday. Call 315-624-3668.

June 2021 •

IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper

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America’s Greatest Heart Run & Walk is Going Virtual This Year

Red Cap Ambassadors to America’s Greatest Heart Run & Walk

The Heart Association will evaluate whether it can have any in-person events in 2022

By Daniel Baldwin

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merica’s Greatest Heart Run and Walk 2020 was the last in-person pre-pandemic event the American Heart Association hosted, according to senior director of communications Katherine McCarthy.

The 2020 Health Expo and run/ walk was held March 6-7, two weeks before Gov. Andrew Cuomo ordered all non-essential businesses to close and told state residents to stay at home.

McCarthy said 3,000 runners and walkers participated. It was possibly the last time they saw their friends in person and didn’t have to wear masks in public.

While the association was lucky to host the event live last year, it wasn’t so lucky this year. It moved the event to May 15 and hosted it virtually. From March 17, 2020, until now, the Heart Association converted all live in-person events into virtual events, including the 2021 Heart Run and Walk.

McCarthy said the association originally planned to hold the event in-person, but the coronavirus derailed those plans.

“The American Heart Association is a public health organization.

The health and safety of the public, our volunteers, our staff and everyone we touch is our No. 1 priority,” McCarthy said. “As autumn 2020 progressed, COVID cases spiked and the vaccine wasn’t available.

The association decided to not host in-person events across the nation in our fiscal year. America’s Greatest Heart Run and Walk is an important fundraiser for the American Heart Association and our work is more important now than ever.”

The 2021 Health Expo was also virtual and occurred May 10-14. In this year’s expo, sponsors and the

association posted health-related recipes, videos, challenges and advice on the Heart Run and Walk Facebook page www.facebook.com/ events/2403653209942802/?active_ tab=discussion.

Each day of the expo focused on a specific health-related theme.

Monday was Nutrition, Tuesday was Children’s Activity, Wednesday was Movement and Fitness, Thursday was Mental Health and Well-being, and Friday was Financial Wellness.

Local residents and businesses registered, formed teams and donated at the event’s website UticaHeartRunWalk.org.

Unlike last year, where teams and residents gathered at Utica College and walked/ran down one specific route, teams and individuals chose their own places to walk or run this year. They filmed and took photos of themselves, their friends and family members running and walking. They posted photos and videos on social media using #HeartRunWalk and @AHANewYork.

“People can run or walk wherever they are. Just open your door and go out,” McCarthy said before the day of the event. “Some teams are choosing places to walk or run together. We hope everyone will post photos to their social media and tag #HeartRunWalk and @AHANewYork. We’d also love it if they posted pictures to our Facebook event page.”

Despite pushing the event back and hosting it virtually, the association raised more than $400,000, had 150 teams and 1,000 walkers.

Not all traditions changed; the association still honored and told the stories of the four Red Cap Ambassadors, those who survived heart disease and stroke and served as the faces of America’s Greatest Heart

Smartphone Breath Alcohol Testing Devices Vary Widely in Accuracy

A

lcohol breath testing devices that pair with smartphones are marketed as safety tools for general use, but their accuracy is highly variable, a new laboratory study shows.

While some of these devices potentially help people avoid driving while impaired, others may mislead users into thinking falsely that they are fit to drive.

Alcohol-impaired driving kills 29 people a day and costs $121 billion a year in the US, amplifying interest in personal breath-testing devices marketed at consumers. Such devices paired with smartphone apps are widely available via online market-

Page 8

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places though information about their origins and accuracy is scarce.

The study in Alcoholism: Clinical & Experimental Research compares the accuracy of six such devices with that of two validated alcohol-consumption tests.

Researchers worked with 20 moderate drinkers aged 21–39. The participants were given three doses of vodka over 70 minutes with the goal of reaching a peak blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of around 0.1%.

After each dose, participants’ breath alcohol concentration (BrAC) was measured using smartphone-paired devices and a police-grade handheld device, a

Albert Pylinski had a heart attack 20 years ago and has been hospitalized four times with heart issues.

Beckett Nash, 3, was born with Tetralogy of Fallot with pulmonary atresia.

Makaila Dell’Anno, 10, is one of the Red Cap Ambassadors to America’s Greatest Heart Run & Walk in 2021.

Makaila was born with a congenital heart defect.

Consuelo Parra, second from right, and her family gathered recently.

Parra had a long history of heart disease before having open-heart surgery.

Run and Walk.

This year’s ambassadors are: • Beckett Nash, 3, was born with a congenital heart defect.

• Consuelo Parra, 72, had openheart surgery after arriving here from the Dominican Republic.

• Makaila Dell’Anno, 10, was also born with a congenital heart defect.

• Albert Pylinski, had a heart attack 20 years ago and was hospitalized four times for heart issues. He’s also a strong supporter of the American Heart Association.

As for 2022, McCarthy said she and her Heart Association team are still evaluating the decision to bring back live crowds at events.

“The health and safety of our community is our No. 1 priority,” McCarthy said. “We miss everyone so much and are grateful that our community continues to support the work of the American Heart Association, even remotely. America’s Greatest Heart Run and Walk is a powerful and moving event for our community.”

validated means of estimating BAC. After the third dose, their blood was drawn and tested for BAC, the most accurate way of measuring alcohol consumption. Researchers also explored the devices’ ability to detect breath alcohol concentration above common legal driving limits (0.05% and 0.08%). They used statistical analysis to explore differences between the measurements.

The participants’ peak blood alcohol concentration ranged from 0.06% to 0.14%. All the breath-testing devices, including the police-grade device, underestimated BAC, consistent with previous research — in this study by a mean of more than 0.01%.

The accuracy of smartphone paired devices varied widely. The most accurate — the BACtrack Mobile Pro and the police-grade device — underestimated BAC by no more than 0.02%. Other devices yield-

ed wider margins. Drinkmate and DRIVESAFE Evoc generated average estimates of 0.04% below peak BAC; BACtrack Vio and Floome differed significantly from the police-grade device at certain points in the study.

The devices also varied in detecting driving-limit thresholds. BACtrack Mobile Pro and Alcohoot were the most sensitive, while Drinkmate and DRIVESAFE failed to detect BAC limit thresholds of 0.08% more than half the time.

The researchers concluded that such devices are potentially useful for remotely monitoring alcohol consumption and may help reduce risky driving behavior. The BACtrack Mobile Pro, for example, was suitable for personal, clinical, and research use.

Other devices, however, dangerously underestimated BAC and frequently failed to detect risky breath alcohol levels.

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

Rise RCOC offers support, assistance, a listening ear and a safe place to hang out for those recovering from addiction.

Above, from left, are team members and volunteers Barb Bellstedt, Jeff Petrie, Melissa Snyder and Jean Verri.

Rise RCOC: Pathway to Recovery

standing addiction.

Rise RCOC offers members sessions with peer advocates, various training life-skills courses and serves as a general recreation center with a pool table, foosball, ping-pong table, giant-screen TV, crafting area, meditation room, game systems, books and board games.

“You really can’t appreciate it

By Jessica Arsenault Rivenburg fully until you come and see us,” Bellstedt said. said Bellstedt. “We’re here both for ddiction is a disease that Rise RCOC closed its doors Anyone interested in becoming those dealing with the addiction and doesn’t easily let go of its completely in March 2020 due to a member at Rise RCOC can stop by also their family and friends, too.” victims. the COVID-19 pandemic. In June, it the center any time during its normal To that end, an Al-Anon group Whether the struggle is against began holding one-on-one meetings hours. No appointment is necessary. heroine, alcohol, methamphetamine by appointment only. Throughout the meets there Wednesday evenings, for And, there is no insurance MP Order Propo cost or This willand appear at stayed the classification family members of: affected by alcoholor gambling, those trying to stay year,ad workers volunteers fee for services. Membership does, ics. sober need support and assistance busy and worked hard to keep however, require individuals to sign Rome engaged NY Another goal of Rise RCOC is to succeed. And that is nothing to be members with daily texts, a statement of intended sobriety and to battle the stigma surrounding ashamed of or judged on, according Facebook posts, Zoom meetings and the center’s expectations. Rise RCOC in Home Date 05/2014 addiction within the community and will not tolerate active substance to Melissa Snyder, director of preven- with classes. society at large, said Snyder. tion and recovery services at the new Now, they are welcoming walkabuse, Bellstedt L said.

March 17, 2014 A1ZGFE Sales JENNIFER Size: HCN6 Ad Id: AM “Sometimes theRep: fear ofGRIMALDI, the Rise Recovery Community Outreach ins Date: again, with a 10-person limitAcct# in The center is open Monday stigma surrounding addiction and Center in Herkimer. the main room, Bellstedt said. through Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 4 MP Order addiction recovery Following a year of shuttered or This Rise located in at the the Her- classification p.m., with the Al-Anon group meet- Propo ad RCOC, will appear of:prevents those struggling with the disease from adseverely limited services, Rise RCOC kimer Commons Mall on East Albany ing Wednesdays at 6 p.m.

Rome NY mitting the problem or seeking help,” is inching back to normalcy as it has Street, Herkimer, opened its doors in she said. reopened to walk-ins as of May 3.

October 2019 as a place where those For more information on the center, with in Home Date 05/2014 Snyder and her team are current- visit: www.risercoc.org or facebook.com/ “It’s been a long road and we’ve working to remain sober could find Date:friendship, March 17, 2014 a Acct# A1ZGFE Rep: JENNIFER L Size: HCN6 Ad Id: AM ly running aSales campaign forGRIMALDI, underdone our best to be here for our support, assistance, risercoc. members and support them from listening ear and a safe place to hang afar,” said Barb Bellstedt, volunteer out away from substances and tempcoordinator peer advocate. “We’re tations, said Bellstedt.

Diabetes? very happy to be opening up more “This is a completely voluntary MP Order Proposal# again.” program,” she explained.

“We’re This ad will appearnot at the classification of: Flat Feet?

Ad Letter court-ordered.”

Rome NY When someonewith completes a 05/2014 Plantar Fasciitis? in Home Date treatment program or Date: has March made 17, 2014 Acct# A1ZGFEYou Sales Rep: GRIMALDI, L Size: HCN6 Ad Id: AMZHMA1 Contract# Diabetes? may be JENNIFER eligible for shoes at little or5544766 no cost! the decision to stopThis using drugs or ad will appear at the classification of: Flat Feet? alcohol, facing the same communiPlantar Fasciitis? ty, people and stressors existed w i t h i nthat Home Date 05/2014 You may be eligible for shoes at little or no cost! during substance abuse can serve as triggers and make recovery difficult, Diabetes?

Bellstedt said. Any new stressors, Flat Feet? such as the loss of a job or the need Plantar Fasciitis? for a new housing situation, can also Diabetes?

You may be eligible for shoes at little or no cost!

Flat Feet? be large stumbling blocks on the road Plantar Fasciitis?

You may be eligible for shoes at little or no cost! to sobriety.

Rise RCOC is not a treatment facility. There are no counselors, doctors or nurses and no one issuing medication or prescriptions, Bellstedt said.

What Rise RCOC does offer is caring people, many with personal experience in addiction, who are willing to listen and suggest assistance from other agencies when appropriate, Bellstedt said. As a Compression Wear Available program of Catholic Charities of Herkimer County, Rise RCOC already AMZHMDNLM 14-Mar-2014 07:57 Rise RCOC has a pool table, fuseball, has a good working relationship with meditation room, craft room and ping many other state and county organiJohn H. Dominic Jr. pong table, among other recreational AMZHMDNLM 14-Mar-2014 07:57 zations.

ABC Board Certified Pedorthist activities, for its members. Pictured “Our goal is to help Corresponding them con- Listing Information: AAMZHMB2DNLMA above is peer advocate Jean Verri. tinue on their pathway to recovery,” DUPLICATE PROOF AMZHMDNLM 14-Mar-2014 07:57

Organization is a place where those working to remain sober can find support, friendship, assistance, a listening ear and more

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MP Order

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Rome NY

Date: March 17, 2014 Acct# A1ZGFE Sales Rep: GRIMALDI, JENNIFER L Size: HCN6 Ad Id: AMZHMA1 Contract# 5544766

AMZHMDNLM 14-Mar-2014 07:57

Corresponding Listing Information:

If you require a change, please contact your sales representative or call Yellow Book Customer Service at 1-800-891-1899.

SIGNATURE: __________________________

Please Note: Print quality may vary from final product.

June 2021 •

IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper

If you require a change, please contact your sales representative or call Yellow Book Customer Service at 1-800-891-1899.

Corresponding Listing Information: SIGNATURE: __________________________

AAMZHMB2DNLMA

DUPLICATE PROOF

•

Page 9

Healthy Hair Tips for Men Research suggests baldness has a number of social advantages

By Barbara Pierce

W

e all want good hair. We want to feel we look good.

How we look is important— our hair is a critical part of that.

To take your hair from dull and dry to smooth, soft and healthy, experts offer these tips: • Don’t shampoo your hair every day: You might think you’re getting extra clean by washing your hair every day, but you’re actually doing more harm than good.

“Over washing is the number one thing men do that’s wrong for their hair,” said Tito Rivera, owner and operator of Tito’s NY Barbershop on Bleeker Street in Utica. “It’s not good at all to wash your hair every day.”

“This is a problem men have: they wash their hair way too much,” said Leo Gilman, owner and operator of the Union Station Barber Shop, in the historic Utica train station.

“Many men shower and wash their hair every day. Some young men take as many as three showers a day and wash their hair every time,” he said.

“You’re washing out all the natural oils in your scalp when you wash your hair,” he added. “Then your hair gets brittle and breaks off.”

“Two times a week to wash your hair—that’s plenty as far as your hair is concerned; that’s all you need to wash your hair,” he stressed. “And do use conditioner after you shampoo.”

Just rinse your hair with water when you shower; limit the shampoo to two or three times a week.

• Don’t be aggressive when drying your hair: “Rubbing your head with a towel makes your hair break off,” said Gilman.

Your hair is more vulnerable when wet, so towel off gently.

Don’t brush your hair when it’s wet; instead, use a wide toothed comb.

Don’t go to bed with wet hair; you’ll be moving your head as you sleep, which can cause breakage. If you must go to bed with wet hair frequently, consider using a silk pillowcase.

• Don’t expose your hair to high temperatures: Piping hot showers, while they can feel good, strip all of the natural oils out of your hair, making it look dry and prone to frizziness.

Instead, shower with lukewarm water.

Beware of blow dryers and heat styling tools as they lead to frizziness and split ends, as well as drying out your scalp. “A hair dryer makes your hair break off,” said Gilman.

If you must use a blow dryer, use a cool setting. Overall, letting your hair air dry is healthiest.

Don’t expose your hair to excessive sun; wear a cap if you must be out in the sun.

• See your barber regularly: “Find a barber you trust and see him/her every two weeks to keep your hair healthy and looking good,” suggested Tito.

• What about balding? As the majority of men will deal with hair thinning or hair loss, we asked our experts if there is anything to prevent badling.

“Nothing works to prevent it.

People selling products for balding just want to make money,” said Tito.

“I’m bald myself.”

“If your mother’s father was bald, you’ll be bald,” said Gilman.

“Some things slow it down; some things speed it up, like washing your hair too much.”

Men’s Health: Guys, Don’t Make These 10 Health Mistakes Ditch the Doc

You already know you need to drop a few pounds and cut back on the beer and potato chips. Besides, you feel fine. Men are geniuses when it comes to finding reasons not to see the doctor. But one of the most important things you can do for your health is schedule — and show up for — a regular visit.

Think You Can’t Have a Heart Attack The “Big One” is something most guys worry about for their dad or granddad. But the threat is often there for much younger men. If heart disease runs in your family, it could find you as early as your 30s. No matter what your age is, make it a point to take care of your ticker.

Ignore the Snore

Sawing logs at night? About half of guys who snore have something Page 10

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called obstructive sleep apnea. It does more than just annoy the person next to you. This disorder can make you stop breathing for a few seconds.

It’s also linked to heart disease and high blood pressure.

Skip the Sunscreen

We’re not just talking about golf or beach days. You should slather on a product with an SPF 30 or higher every time you go outside to prevent skin cancer. Most guys never put it on their faces — or any other exposed skin. Protect yourself.

Refuse to Get Help for Impotence

Don’t be ashamed. Bedroom problems have nothing to do with your masculinity. Chances are they aren’t caused by your state of mind, either. The main cause of impotence is usually a lack of blood flow to the

Juan ‘Tito’ Rivera, owner of Tito’s NY Barber Shop.

Medications like Rogaine are effective only for people with a hereditary form of hair loss, and do have side effects.

That’s the bad news.

The good news: there is research that suggests baldness has a number of social advantages. Researchers found that completely bald men were perceived by both men and women to be more dominant, more masculine, stronger and with better leadership skills.

Men with thinning hair fared far worse than either bald men or those with a full head of hair.

The truth is that a lot of men shave their heads because they’re going bald.

The message from the research supports this: If you’re going bald, embrace it. It really is a case of all or nothing.

Stop hiding behind baseball

caps, spray-on hair and questionable combing techniques. It turns out, women aren’t as concerned about that encroaching bald spot as you may think.

Hundreds of women of different ages were surveyed. The overwhelming majority of them liked bald men.

“Embrace the inevitable. Try to look good bald. Whatever you do, no Donald Trump-inspired ‘dos. That’s a DON’T,” said one woman online.

Most women agreed that the decisive factor is not the hair or its absence, but the personality of the man. Some women even mentioned they see baldness as a sign of honesty, making it easier to trust bald men.

Most find hair loss a nonsignificant factor. They pay much more attention to a man’s sense of humor and other personal characteristics such as intelligence, sociability, confidence rather than his hair.

penis. This can also be a sign of heart trouble, so put your pride aside and see the doc.

checkups. But guys need to see the dentist regularly, too. Not only because they can spot and prevent oral problems, but sitting back and saying “ah” can also reveal symptoms of things like diabetes, Crohn’s disease, lupus, and even leukemia.

Drink Away the Blues

More women than men get depressed. That’s part of the problem — the idea that it’s a “female problem” often keeps the more than 6 million men who have it from seeking help.

As a result, more guys turn to drugs and alcohol to help them feel better.

This just makes depression that much harder to spot — and treat.

Go With the Flow

How many times have you gone to the bathroom today? Really, who has time to keep track? Maybe you should. If you go more than eight times a day or more than twice at night, it could be more than a nuisance. It could be a sign of a medical problem like enlarged prostate, overactive bladder (OAB), or even some forms of cancer. Talk to your doctor about it.

Keep Your Mouth Shut

In the U.S., women are more likely than men to get routine dental

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

Stick With Meat and Potatoes

It’s a rare guy who gets enough fruits and vegetables during the day.

Doctors suggest four to five servings of each for a heart-healthy diet. If that’s not enough, eating the good stuff also lowers the odds that you’ll have a stroke, cancer, or digestive problems. And it keeps your blood sugar in check.

Tempt Fate

Some guys just love to drink, smoke, gamble, drive fast, or jump out of planes. Sure these things are fun, but all of them can be bad for your health. Truth is, men are more likely than women to do all these things. Why? Some guys do drink more, which messes with their judgment. Others just spend less time worrying about the outcome of their actions. Sometimes, it pays to think twice.

SmartBites

Helpful tips

The skinny on healthy eating

Lean Flank Steak Boasts Abundant Nutrients

S

ome folks never forget their first kiss: I’ll never forget my first flank steak. It happened in a Mexican restaurant. The lights were low, the guitars were thrumming, and the thin slices of steak in my fajita made me weak in the taste buds.

Since that fateful night—and especially now during grilling season—I often reach for flank steak.

But taste alone is not driving this meat crush: nutrition is, too. Deemed a “lean” cut, flank steak has less fat and fewer calories than, say, some of the beef cuts marbled with fat (porterhouse, ribeye, strip steak).

Flank steak is packed with protein, with a 3.5-ounce portion delivering over half of our daily needs. Protein is often referred to as the building block of life because of its central role in the growth, development and maintenance of cells.

Not getting enough of this powerhouse nutrient can lead to a variety of health issues: muscle loss, fatigue, thinning hair, a weakened immune system, and more. Adequate protein intake is especially important as we age to help maintain strength, posture and mobility.

This flavorful steak, like most beef, sizzles with impressive amounts of niacin and respectable amounts of vitamins B6 and B12. All

together, these essential nutrients aid in red blood cell production, help convert food to energy and promote healthy nervous and digestive systems. Since B12 deficiency is common among the elderly—whether through diet or poor absorption—it’s good to know that beef is an excellent source of this beneficial B vitamin.

Eating flank steak also boosts your intake of selenium, zinc, phosphorous and iron. These important minerals each provide a valuable function: selenium gobbles up cell-damaging free radicals; zinc fortifies the immune system; phosphorous keeps bones and teeth strong and healthy; and iron provides energy and mental clarity.

What this cut doesn’t sizzle with is fat, particularly saturated fat. An average serving contains 7.5 grams total fat, with only 3 grams saturated fat. As a comparison, ribeye steak has 22 grams total fat, with 9 grams saturated fat. Foods that are high in saturated fats raise our total blood cholesterol and unhealthy LDL cholesterol levels—levels that, over time, contribute to clogged arteries and an increased risk of heart disease or stroke. Consuming no more than 15 grams of saturated fat a day is the recommended amount.

Flank Steak Fajitas with Sautéed Peppers 2 teaspoons chili powder 1 ½ teaspoons cumin 1 teaspoon onion powder 1 teaspoon garlic powder 1 teaspoon paprika ½ teaspoon Kosher salt ½ teaspoon coarse black pepper cayenne pepper to taste (optional) 1 ½ pounds flank steak 2 ½ tablespoons canola or olive oil, divided 3 bell peppers (multiple colors), cut into strips 1 medium red onion, sliced Flour tortillas, warmed Optional toppings: salsa, guacamole, shredded cheese, chopped cilantro Preheat grill to medium high.

Heat oven to 350F; wrap a stack of five tortillas in a packet of foil and put in oven for 15 minutes (can do multiple packets at same time).

In a small bowl combine chili powder, cumin, garlic and onion powders, paprika, salt, pepper, and cayenne (if using). Brush steak with 1 tablespoon oil, then rub about half the spice mixture into both sides of the meat. Add steak to grill and cook, flipping once until desired doneness (about 4-5 minutes per side). Let rest

Contrary to popular belief, marinating meat for hours on end does not equal greater tenderization, since marinades don’t really penetrate much beyond the surface of the meat. Long soaks, in fact, can turn the outermost layer of meat mushy, not tender.

Much like dry rubs, marinades mainly add flavor. For lean meats like flank steak, chefs recommend using a meat tenderizing mallet, grilling over high heat (about 4-5 minutes per side), and cutting the meat across the grain into thin slices. Overcooking your flank steak will render it tough; and slicing with the grain will result in an unpleasantly chewy steak. for 10 minutes.

While steak is resting, heat remaining oil in large skillet over medium-high heat. Add bell peppers, onion and remaining spice mixture; sauté until tender crisp, about 6-8 minutes. Transfer to a serving dish.

Thinly slice steak against the grain and serve on a warm tortilla with bell-pepper mixture and desired toppings.

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.

Eat Smart: Mediterranean Diet Could Ward Off Dementia

A

diet rich in vegetables, fruits, olive oil and fish — the socalled Mediterranean diet — may protect the brain from plaque buildup and shrinkage, a new study suggests.

Researchers in Germany looked at the link between diet and the proteins amyloid and tau, which are a hallmark of Alzheimer’s but are also found in the brains of older people without dementia.

“These results contribute to the body of evidence that links eating habits with brain health and cognitive performance in old age,” said lead researcher Tommaso Ballarini, a postdoctoral researcher from the German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases in Bonn.

Eating a Mediterranean-like diet might protect the brain from neurodegeneration and therefore reduce the risk of developing dementia, he said.

“However, further research is needed to validate these findings and to better understand the underlying mechanisms,” Ballarini said, since this study could not prove a causeand-effect relationship.

For the study, he and his colleagues collected data on more than 500 people, of whom more than 300 had a high risk for Alzheimer’s disease. The participants reported their diets and took tests of language,

memory and executive function.

They also underwent brain scans, and more than 200 had spinal fluid samples taken to look for biomarkers of amyloid and tau.

After adjusting for age, sex and education, the researchers found that each point lower on the Mediterranean diet scale was linked to nearly one year more of brain aging, seen in the part of the brain closely tied with Alzheimer’s disease.

People who didn’t follow a Mediterranean diet had higher levels of markers of amyloid and tau, the researchers found. Also, people who didn’t follow a Mediterranean diet scored lower on memory tests than those who did.

“Overall, a closer adherence to a Mediterranean-like diet was associated with a preserved brain volume in regions vulnerable to Alzheimer’s disease, fewer abnormal amyloid and tau and better performance on memory tests,” Ballarini said.

One limitation of the study is that people self-reported their diet, which could lead to errors in recalling what and how much they ate, the researchers noted.

One U.S. expert said diet is only one aspect in the Alzheimer’s picture.

“We continue to see literature revolve around nutrition and diet and what it might mean in later life,” said Heather Snyder, vice president for

medical and scientific relations at the Alzheimer’s Association.

Diet, however, isn’t the only lifestyle factor that might lower the risk for Alzheimer’s disease, she said.

“I think the data continues to evolve and demonstrate that lifestyle interventions are likely beneficial for reducing cognitive decline,” Snyder said.

Other lifestyle components, such as exercise, are also important, she said. It’s not clear yet how diet and exercise reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease.

“I think the key is to really understand what that recipe is, because it’s unlikely to be any one thing,” Snyder said. “It’s more likely going to be a combination and the synergy of those behaviors that is most beneficial.”

Snyder noted that these same lifestyle factors help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and even some cancers. “But there is the need to tease out how and what might be the most beneficial for each of those,” she added.

“When we look at Alzheimer’s and cognition and cognitive decline, we have consistently seen diets like the Mediterranean diet are associated with lower risk in later life. What they all have in common is that a bal-

June 2021 •

anced diet makes sure your brain has the nutrients that it needs,” Snyder said.

“I think what we know is what’s good for your heart is good for your brain, so eat a balanced diet,” she said. “There’s no one right diet, but make sure you get all the nutrients you need, but also get active, get moving and stay engaged.”

IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper

•

Page 11

Between You & Me Being a Mother Is Exhausting

By Barbara Pierce

Even if your kids are the best, it’s still tough

N

o! I won’t! And you can’t make me!”

My daughter, Becky, hurled the words at me with all the fury contained in her small 9-yearold body. “I hate you!” she yelled as she ran outside, slamming the door as hard as she could.

Taking a deep breath, then another, I told myself: “You can do this.

You’ve got to hold it together.”

That was kind of how most of my days went. I’d suggest something to Becky, she’d blow up at me, say no, and race outside to cool down, slamming the door. She’d say no to things she might even like. She’d say no to most everything.

When I adopted her, I knew being a parent wouldn’t be easy. I didn’t know it would be as hard as it was.

I’d hide in the bathroom, just to get one moment of peace. I loved going to work, where it was calm.

Becky was a tough child to parent. But even if your kids are the best, it’s still tough. And exhausting.

Even with a partner, most women carry more of the load when it comes to parenting and household responsibilities.

Mothers became even more frayed, frustrated and exhausted during the pandemic.

What to do

What can you do when you hit a wall? When the demands of motherhood are drowning you? Here are some things that helped me, coupled with advice from other mothers: • Make time for yourself: Take a time out and do something that leaves you feeling recharged, like reading, soaking in the tub, a fresh cup of coffee. Walk away from being mother for a break. If there is someone to watch your kids, take a long break every now and then.

• Prioritize: Take a look at all you’re doing or feel you need to do.

Are there some things on your to-do list that you really don’t need to do right now?

If your child is a problem like mine, it helped me to prioritize which of her behaviors was the hardest for me to take and work on that.

It wasn’t that she said no all the time or the swear words she used, it was the door slamming that shattered my nerves. My first priority was to get rid of the slamming doors. I used

positive reinforcement. Every time she shut the door without slamming it, I complimented her and rewarded her with some M&Ms, which she loved. And she quit doing it. Then I went on to the next behavior.

• Do something fun with your kids: Take a break from normal life, do something different, something fun. It doesn’t have to cost anything.

You and your kids will be recharged.

When someone suggested to me that Becky and I needed to go off and play, I didn’t want to; I was too mad at her. But I tried it and found that, after ducking out to a movie or the pool together, we were both in a much better mood.

• Use your support system: We all need support; don’t be afraid to ask for help from a friend or family member. Phone a friend. Let them help you get through a tough day; they may have you laughing and feeling better in no time.

When I really hit a wall with Becky, my friend, Sheila, would invite her over to spend the night.

Sheila stepped in to save my sanity every now and then. When my daughter came home the next day, I was in a much better place for having had the break.

My friend, Maria, invited Becky and I over for dinner with her and her sons from time to time. As Maria fussed over the pretty little girl, I found myself feeling more loving towards her. We’d both come home in much happier frame of mind.

• Eat well: A feeling of exhaustion can come from not eating enough of the right things. You’re so busy and tired from motherhood, you have little time to eat. When you’re well-nourished, you’re better able to deal with stress.

• Do something creative: Working on something creative floods your brain with dopamine, the feel-good chemical, as well as having calming effects on your brain. Draw, write, paint, sew, make a craft project. It’s not about what you create; it’s about the act of doing it.

• Tap into the stress-busting effects of nature. Spending time outdoors in a natural environment can reduce stress and frustration for both you and your kids. Being outside in nature reduces stress and increases the dopamine in your brain. As well as making you feel better emotionally, it contributes to your physical well-being.

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.

I’VE GOTTEN MY COVID-19 VACCINE, NOW WHAT? If you’ve received a COVID-19 vaccine, you may wonder what’s next, and how quickly things can go back to “normal”. Here are some of your questions answered

by Dr. Lorna Fitzpatrick, Vice President of Medical Affairs.

Q. CAN I STOP WEARING MY MASK? If you’ve been fully vaccinated you can now safely participate in a number of activities without wearing a mask. The CDC and New York state recently updated guidance about wearing masks. Fully vaccinated people can now resume activities both indoors and outdoors without wearing a mask or physically distancing. There are exceptions based on federal, state and local regulations and local businesses and workplaces may have their own policies you will be asked to follow. Visit CDC.gov for more information.

Q. IF I’M FULLY VACCINATED, CAN I TRAVEL? Fully vaccinated travelers are less likely to get and spread COVID-19, so people who are fully vaccinated with an FDA-authorized vaccine can travel safely within the United States. Negative tests are not needed unless the destination requires it, nor is self-quarantining. However, still follow the recommendations of wearing a mask, washing your hands often and social distancing.

LORNA K. FITZPATRICK, MD Vice President of Medical Affairs

She is board-certified in pediatrics and pediatric hematology-oncology and obtained her medical degree at Jacobs School of Medicine, Buffalo, New York, and continued on to residency in pediatrics at St. Louis Children’s Hospital/Washington University, St. Louis. She completed a fellowship in pediatric hematology-oncology at Johns Hopkins University. While there, she participated in the graduate training program in clinical investigation at the Bloomberg School of Public Health.

Q. IS THERE AN UPDATE ON WHEN KIDS CAN GET VACCINATED? DOES THIS AFFECT THEM RETURNING TO SCHOOL? All residents of New York ages 12+ are now eligible for a vaccine. The Pfizer/BioNTech vaccine is approved for ages 12+ and the other vaccines are currently being tested to make sure they are safe and effective. As a pediatrician and mother, I know how important it is for children to return to school for both their social and educational development. Vaccines are one more tool to keep our children and teachers safe in the classroom.

The information in this document is current as of May 20, 2021. For the latest information on COVID-19, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention online at CDC.gov.

A nonprofit independent licensee of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association

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

Read our full Q&A with Dr. Fitzpatrick at

ExcellusBCBS.com/COVID19

Kids Special

Are The Kids Doing All Right in Quarantine?

By Barbara Pierce

T

he end is finally in sight.

Now parents wonder how masks, social distancing and lack of interaction with other children will affect their child’s social development. Will their kids be all right?

Interacting with other children is a crucial part of growing up. The pandemic brought that to a standstill.

Had the past year gone as usual, the daily life of an average child would have meant actual classrooms, baseball games, middle school plays, birthday parties, high school dances.

For some children, there’s been none of that.

“Over the past 14 months, we’ve seen firsthand the impact the pandemic has had on families, especially for children and seniors,” said Hank Leo, CEO, YMCA of the Greater Tri-Valley, with programs and services for the whole family in Rome, Oneida and New Hartford.

“Being isolated, indoors, for a long time, away from friends and family creates loneliness, lack of physical exercise and social-emotional challenges,” he added.

Being around other kids is how kids learn about cooperation, trust, sharing, taking turns, and so very much more. It’s a huge part of growing up that’s been missing for kids who haven’t gone to school, preschool or daycare.

The consequences of being cooped up with parents and siblings do depend on the age, home environ-

ment, and personality of the child.

Babies and toddlers don’t need interaction with other children; they focus on parents and caregivers.

Between ages 2 to 3, children begin to notice each other; they learn important lessons by connecting with other children. They learn from each other. Their interactions help them get ready to move into pre-K or kindergarten by helping them develop skills they need, how to connect with others, cope with emotion, handle stress, resolve conflicts—all vital skills for a child’s development.

Around the age of 10 or 11, children’s social lives outside their families take on increasing significance.

The social skills they learn can’t be taught by reading a book or lessons on Zoom. Like learning a sport, you need to actually do it.

Kids need to figure out who they trust, who likes them, where they fit in and how to find a niche where they can shine. That aspect of growing up kicks into high gear in the middle school years. It is something many kids have had to put on hold during the pandemic.

The hardest-hit groups are older adolescents. This is the time when kids are the most impressionable, vulnerable and malleable. Every social interaction they have, every relationship they form, every event that happens, has the ability to leave a lasting impression on them. Every interaction determines who they become in the future. Whether it’s

What Works Best to Ease Recurrent Ear Infections in Kids?

F

requent middle-ear infections are the nemesis of many parents and young children.

Now a new study suggests that a common treatment — “ear tubes” — may not prevent future bouts.

Middle-ear infections (or acute otitis media) are second only to the common cold in creating childhood misery.

They occur when the air-filled space behind the eardrum becomes infected and fills with fluid, which can cause pain, fever and obstructed hearing.

Some babies and young children are prone to frequent infections. One treatment option is to surgically place a tiny tube in the eardrum, to help drain fluid built up behind it.

But the new study, published May 13 in the New England Journal of Medicine, found that the tactic did not thwart future infections.

Among 250 babies and toddlers researchers followed, those treated with ear tubes suffered about as many middle-ear infections over the next two years as those who received only antibiotics for each bout.

The good news is that infections in both groups dissipated over time, said lead researcher, physician Alejandro Hoberman of UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh.

Kids normally outgrow the infections, he explained. Babies and toddlers are prone to them because of the structure of their eustachian tubes, which help drain fluid from the middle ear. As little ones grow older, that changes.

According to Hoberman, the new findings suggest that for many children, tubes can be avoided.

But, he added, some may need tubes if their rate of ear infection does not wane over time.

YMCA summer day camp, pre-pandemic. The TriValley YMCA offers modified summer day camp this summer. parent-child relationships, friendships, teacher-student relationships, each relationship has an important role in shaping who they become.

It’s not normal for teens to spend so much time with their families; this is contrary to what they need developmentally, say experts. It’s hampering their next stage of development, moving into adulthood.

What happens when a pandemic puts socialization on the back burner? The long-term impact is not yet known. No one truly knows how the COVID-19 pandemic and the lost socialization opportunities will affect kids in the long run.

And the consequences will depend on how long the disruptions last. If, by fall, school is pretty much back to normal, this time out may become just a small speed bump.

The short answer from child development experts is reassuring words: Most kids will be just fine; kids are malleable and resilient; they’ll be okay.

Now, as we transition to summer, parents will have to determine what activities they consider safe. It will be important to find safe opportunities

for kids to be with their peers.

Consider a day camp. “Fun activities to engage brains, opportunities to explore, develop new skills and try new things, physical activities to keep bodies active,” is how the Y Summer Care describes its summer day camps.

“We’re looking forward to our summer day camps, which will be held in the Oneida, Rome and New Hartford communities for children who need this now more than ever,” said Leo. “We’ve modified our plans to ensure a safe and fun environment for every child,” he added.

For details, see www.ymcatrivalley.org.

The Utica Zoo will also hold on-site day camp for kids aged 3-11, with modifications for safety. “It’s great place for kids to have fun and learn too,” said Kayla Jacobs.

Camps are interactive, encourage socialization, take tours of the zoo, and do crafts.

Physician Steven Sobol is chairman of the American Academy of Pediatrics’ section on otolaryngology-head and neck surgery. He said the study “supports the well-established belief that many children with recurrent acute otitis media eventually grow out of their symptoms, regardless of whether they've been managed medically or surgically.

But decisions on treatment, Sobol said, depend on various factors. They include whether infections are impairing a child’s hearing and speech development.

That point was emphasized by physician Maura Cosetti of Mount Sinai’s New York Eye and Ear Infirmary in New York City.

“The age of children in the study ... coincides with what’s felt to be the sensitive period for speech and language development,” Cosetti said.

Unlike antibiotics, she explained, ear tubes “may provide immediate relief from hearing loss related to middle-ear fluid — the value of which may be difficult to quantify in the current study.”

To Sobol, the study “emphasizes the importance of creating an individualized approach to management.”

The trial included 250 children, ages 6 months to nearly 3 years, who had suffered recurrent middle-ear infections — at least three within six months, or four within a year.

Hoberman’s team randomly assigned them to have either an ear

tube surgically placed or receive oral antibiotics whenever a new infection struck.

Kids given ear tubes also received antibiotics when a new infection arose — but by ear drop. If that didn’t work, they switched to oral antibiotics.

One potential advantage of ear tubes, Hoberman noted, is that they allow ear-drop antibiotics. That could reduce the risk of bacteria elsewhere in the body developing antibiotic resistance.

Over the two-year study, though, there was no clear advantage of ear tubes when it came to new infections, or antibiotic resistance.

The average rate of recurrent ear infection was around 1.5 per year in the ear-tube group, and 1.7 in the comparison group. Infections declined in the second year in both groups.

Children with ear tubes did spend fewer days on oral antibiotics, the study found.

But the two treatment groups showed no difference in the likelihood of harboring antibiotic-resistant bacteria in the nose or throat.

Still, Sobol pointed out, there were some other advantages in eartube group.

For one, they tended to remain infection-free longer before their first recurrence. They also generally had fewer days with infection symptoms—with the exception of drainage from the ear.

June 2021 •

For details, see uticazoo.org/education/ zoocamp.

IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper

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Kids Special

to develop, like growth and development, and mental health,” added Rio. “That’s the main part of our job.”

Pediatricians understand the many factors that affect the growth and development of children. Children change rapidly and they must be approached with an appreciation for their stage of physical and mental development.

A good pediatrician is experienced in dealing with kid’s fear of needles, fear of doctors, tantrums and worried parents. They know how to put kids at ease and are patient with the questions of concerned parents.

And they will know when your child has an illness or disorder and needs to see a specialist.

“Urgent care is necessary for emergencies that happen on weekends, like broken bones or the need for stiches,” Rio explained. “But when we see your child for normal

sick things like a sore throat, we can see that illness or accident in the whole context of who your child is.

And we can provide better care than someone who’s never seen him before and will never see him again.”

Children deserve a doctor who knows them, knows their history, knows their allergies and what medications they have been on. Knows about all those ear infections or asthma attacks and when they are causes for concern. If the urgent care doctor diagnoses your child with multiple cases of strep throat but never does a strep test, your child may end up having completely unnecessary surgery.

Having a pediatrician who knows your child best could be crucial to your child’s health.

Research shows that children who see the same pediatrician at visits have better health in the long run. Children grow and develop rapidly and getting to know your child and family can help.

It’s especially important to see the same pediatrician if your child has a chronic condition, such as asthma, ADHD, high blood pressure or diabetes. Patients who see the same pediatrician for chronic conditions have better control of the condition than patients who see different pediatricians at their visits.

Another plus for parents—you don’t have to tell your child’s story to each new face you see. Your child’s pediatrician can help you navigate through a sometimes complex health system to ensure your child gets the care they need and can often limit the need to refer to other specialists.

“At Slocum-Dickson, we have six pediatricians,” said Rio. “We see kids from birth to college. We do the whole range of care, from vaccinations to sick visits, well visits, mental health concerns, like depression and anxiety.”

“One of the unique things about Slocum-Dickson Medical Group is that we offer an urgent care on-site and a physician is always on duty,” added marketing manager Sara Park. “Your medical records and visit notes are shared with your Slocum-Dickson primary care physician. We see patients 2 years old and up, so it’s like an extension of our pediatric department on evenings and weekends. Plus, you can check in online on our website in advance so that your child doesn’t have to wait in the waiting room.”

Urgent care is open seven days a week.

When the HPV vaccine was first introduced, the main goal was to prevent cervical cancer. But oropharyngeal cancer — which occurs in the throat, tonsils and back of the tongue — has now surpassed cervical cancer as the most common cancer caused by HPV. Men account for 80% of those diagnoses, the researchers noted.

Study author, physician Michelle Chen, a clinical lecturer in the department of otolaryngology-head and neck surgery at Michigan Medicine, noted that “young adult men especially, who are less likely to have

a primary care doctor, are often not getting health education about things like cancer prevention vaccines.”

The analysis of data from the 2010-2018 National Health Interview Surveys revealed that only 16% of men aged 18-21 had received at least one dose of the HPV vaccine at any age, compared with 42% of women in the same age group.

Two doses of the vaccine at ages 11 or 12 are recommended by the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices, but the vaccine still provides protection for people who get three doses by age 26.

Why Choose a Pediatrician For Your Child?

Pediatricians understand the many factors that affect the growth and development of children

By Barbara Pierce

S

ummer is here. If you have kids, you never know what to expect.

Your toddler may get an earache, your third-grader a bad sunburn, your teen steps on a piece of glass in his bare feet.

What do you do?

You have a choice. Should you take him to his pediatrician, to urgent care, to the emergency room or treat him at home? Knowing which choice to make isn’t always clear.

“That’s an easy question,” said pediatrician Taryn Rio, Slocum-Dickson Medical Group. “Take your child to his pediatrician.”

“As his pediatrician, we’ve been getting to know your child and your family over time. We may have seen him since birth, or, at least for the past few years,” he added. “We can take better care of your child because we know your child and we know your family.”

Pediatricians are specialists. That

means, in addition to medical school, they have had several years of extensive, specialized training and experience in treating infants, children and adolescents. They have experience with all aspects of childhood health.

Children’s bodies are different from adults. They have their own range of potential illnesses, their bodies react very differently to illness and medications and they often present a considerable challenge in obtaining a good physical exam.

Pediatricians are concerned with the physical, emotional and social health of children from birth to young adulthood, explained the Slocum-Dickson website. Pediatric care encompasses a broad spectrum of health services ranging from preventative health care to the diagnosis and treatment of acute and chronic diseases.

“A lot of what we do isn’t an urgent visit, but things that take a while

Too Few Young Men Have Gotten the HPV Vaccine

T

he HPV vaccine isn’t reaching enough young American men, researchers report.

The vaccine protects against reproductive warts as well as cancers caused by human papillomavirus (HPV), the most common sexually transmitted infection in the United States.

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Many young women get the HPV vaccine to help protect them against cervical cancer, but numbers are much lower among young men, the Michigan Medicine-University of Michigan researchers found. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved the vaccine for women in 2006 and expanded it to men in 2009.

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

The Balanced Body

By Deb Dittner

The Health of Our Children is in Your Hands Introducing children at a young age to brainand gut-healthy foods will give them an edge as they grow

T

he health of our children has never been more important and needs to start in utero and continue through their entire childhood into adulthood.

Moms need to make sure they are eating whole nutrient dense foods for the health of themselves and their unborn child.

Once born and while breastfeeding, Mom needs to continue with the same whole nutrient-dense foods. As the baby grows and begins eating on their own as a toddler and into the teen years, the foods they eat will help provide the proper nutrients for a healthy body from brain health to gut health to bone health and more.

Whole nutrient-dense foods are influential in supporting the brain health of children allowing them to grow into young adults. Sometimes it can be difficult especially if you have a picky eater. The best way to convince children into eating healthy

is to introduce healthy foods from the beginning encouraging their taste buds early on.

Let’s look at a few brain health foods to offer your child when they’re young: • Cucumbers, jicama and carrots (or any crunchy veggie) are great to offer while teething and teaches them early-on to enjoy the flavor.

Keeping these finger foods available in the fridge as they get older and providing a dip such as hummus encourages them to reach for these themselves.

• Yogurt is not just for brain health but also gut health. Introducing plain dairy or non-dairy yogurt with live cultures provides the gut with good bacteria. Stay with plain versus fruit-flavored as these contain plenty of sugar. Add in real fruit such as berries and a dash of cinnamon for added flavor.

• Avocado can be enjoyed at any

age by turning it into a pudding, topping toast or adding to a variety of dishes including salads. This healthy fat is also full of fiber and magnesium.

• Legumes and beans do dual work providing for gut and brain health. These fiber-rich, plant-based sources are also great sources of magnesium which have become deficient in many people of late. Magnesium is needed for a good night’s sleep and decreasing anxiety.

• Organic dark chocolate consisting of a minimum of 70% cacao helps to boost gut health as long as there is a minimal sugar content. Dark chocolate provides antioxidants, magnesium and that little bit of sweet.

• Nuts are a great snack assuming the child does not have any nut allergies. Nuts supply needed crunch and can be eaten on the go. Prepare a large bag of trail mix consisting of almonds, walnuts (they even look like a brain and contain omega 3 fatty acids) and pecans then add pumpkin seeds, coconut flakes and dried cranberries. Measure out into individual servings and you have a snack full of healthy fat, fiber and magnesium.

• Omega-3 fats found in fatty fish such as sustainably sourced salmon are not only good for brain health but also decrease stress, boost mood and promote emotional balance. You can even start out by adding a fish oil into their meals getting them accustomed to the flavor.

• Eggs are rich in choline and can be served in many ways from hard boiled (great to take along on a hike) to an omelet chock full of veggies.

Eggs are high in melatonin allowing for a better sleep as well as improved brain function. If you or your child cannot tolerate eggs consider quinoa or soybeans.

Introducing your children at a young age to brain- and gut-healthy foods will give them an edge as they grow. By using food as medicine, you will optimize your child’s overall wellbeing. Making healthy food choices provides fiber, anti-inflammatory properties, pre- and probiotic foods and the necessary nutrients to grow.

Screen time was higher in homes with more children. Girls spent more time than boys using media to connect with family and friends. Dore said caregivers should be encouraged to offer boys more support in maintaining relationships through technology when they can’t meet in person.

Laura Justice is professor of educational studies and executive director of The Crane Center. She said, “Importantly, we saw increases in media use in a lot of areas often considered positive, such as learning and fostering friendships, suggesting that caregivers may have been using media to supplement children’s educational and social experiences at

a time when in-person options were not safe.”

But, she added, “these families don’t have some of the resources that more advantaged families have to help with children while the parents work or do other things. For low-income families, occupying a child’s time may also be very important and necessary at times.”

It is not clear whether the high levels of media use found in this study would also be found in more affluent families, the researchers noted.

The findings were published online recently in the Journal of Developmental & Behavioral Pediatrics.

Deborah Dittner is a family nurse practitioner and health consultant.

Her mission is to transform as many individuals as possible through nutrition and lifestyle changes.

For more information, check out her website at www.debdittner.com or contact her at 518-596-8565.

Media, TV Time Doubled for Kindergartners During Pandemic

W

hen the COVID-19 pandemic kept young kids indoors, their time spent watching TV and other screens rose dramatically.

That’s the finding of a new study that investigated the screen time of kindergarteners from low-income families in Ohio. The researchers found that their use of television, video, movies, short clips, and apps or games on any electronic device topped six hours a day in May and June of 2020.

That was nearly double previous levels of screen use reported in earlier studies.

“We found a high level of media use compared to what many experts think is appropriate for this age group,” said lead author Rebecca Dore. She is senior research associate at Ohio State University’s Crane Center for Early Childhood Research and Policy, in Columbus.

“Some of that time spent using media was positive: watching educational videos and connecting with friends and family. But the amount of time they spent is something we should be aware of,” Dore added.

Managing screen time while childcare was shut down may have been harder for caregivers from low-income households than for others, the study authors suggested.

“Increased screen time may be particularly concerning for children from low-income households who had higher levels even before the pandemic: over three and a half hours per day compared with less than two hours for children from high-income homes,” Dore said.

The study included 151 low-income caregivers of kindergarteners who responded to 12 questions about kids’ media use on the most recent weekday and weekend day.

The kids averaged 6.6 hours a day of media use (6.8 hours on weekdays and 5.8 on weekends), the findings showed.

Forty-seven percent of respondents reported increased entertainment use; 45% said use had increased as a way to occupy the child’s time; 42% were using media more often to maintain relationships with remote family and friends; and 34% said their child was spending more time using screens for family bonding.

About 61% of caregivers said the child was using media for learning more than usual, which researchers suggested may have included watching educational TV or using educational apps unrelated to formal schooling. About 84% of kids had direct contact with their teachers once a week or less, with 53% reporting none.

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Tactics for Easing Back Into Life It’s good to mingle, socialize and be doing things again

By Melissa Stefanec

A

t this point, most of us miss people.

Even the most introverted or curmudgeonly among us have shed many of our anti-social tendencies over the past year and a half. This pandemic has made us realize how much the people in our lives matter to us. From family, to friends, to neighbors, to coworkers, to acquaintances and strangers, we discovered we need each other.

However, many of us spent more than a year being isolated or socially distanced from most other human beings. As people start getting vaccinated and we resume some portions of our pre-pandemic lives, real-life interaction can feel unnatural.

If you’re having some difficulties reentering the world you once knew, you aren’t alone. For many people, the social anxiety that flared during the pandemic doesn’t immediately disappear after you get a vaccine and the restrictions are lifted.

If you’re one of those people, here are some ideas for reentering society. Using tactics that work for you can help reacclimation be a joyous occasion. On a side note, if you’re having a lot of difficulties, you should talk to your doctor or a healthcare professional. They can help you devise a helpful and healthy plan.

Discuss your boundaries

As you start to gather with Page 16

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people again, talk to those people about your boundaries. If you aren’t up for large gatherings, ask the host how many people will be there. If you want to be in control, set up an event where you’re the only one who invites people. Respect your own boundaries and expect others to do the same.

If vaccination status is important to you, ask!

If you don’t feel safe being around unvaccinated people, ask for people’s vaccine statuses. If they don’t want to share that information, make a judgment call. Do what is right for you. Your loved ones should understand, even if they don’t agree.

Visit places where there are a lot of people (but where you can keep your distance)

If you’re ready for people but not quite ready to socialize, you can try an outdoor event or a large indoor open space where there are numerous people. Not having to engage with these people might help you reacclimate to large groups.

Embrace outdoor events

Outdoor events can be a great segue for returning to society. Fresh air and open spaces can really help a person feel safe. Things like outdoor markets, outdoor dining or parks and hiking trails might be a good place to start.

Gather with people whom you trust Sometimes, it just makes sense to start small. If you’re nervous about being around a lot of people, start with people whom you trust to respect your wishes and boundaries.

Don’t be afraid to ask for what you need.

Understand that you can’t control your environment

If you venture outside of your home, you’re no longer in control of your environment. So, assume a level of risk that is appropriate for your tolerance. Understand that you don’t live in a risk-free world. When you’re out and about, people will do things you’re uncomfortable with, because we all have different comfort levels.

Try your best to control the controllables and let other things slide.

Feel empowered to turn down invitations

If you aren’t ready to attend a specific event, don’t attend it. Give yourself leeway as you reacclimate to social events and outings. If you aren’t up to it, now more than ever, it’s perfectly acceptable to politely decline an invitation.

Make a bucket list

If you’re having trouble motivating yourself to get out there again, make a favorite’s list. Create a bucket list for 2021 and put all of your

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

“

This pandemic has made us realize how much the people in our lives matter to us.

From family, to friends, to neighbors, to coworkers, to acquaintances and strangers, we discovered we need each other.

”

pre-pandemic favorite things on it.

When you’re ready, start checking off the things that make you happy.

Make plans in the very near future

Now that you have some ideas, make some plans. Don’t make those plans for weeks out; that will give you time to agonize over them.

Instead, make plans for a small and accomplishable outing and do that thing. Sometimes, you just have to shed the fear and embrace life.

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By Jim Miller

Medicare Coverage Options for Retirees Eager to Travel Dear Savvy Senior, What are the best Medicare coverage options for COVID-19 vaccinated retirees who are eager to travel? My wife and I will both turn 65 over the next few months and would like to know which Medicare plans are best for extensive travelers.

Almost 65

Dear Almost, The best Medicare plans for retirees who plan to travel will vary depending on your destinations. But before you book a trip make sure you know the current CDC COVID-19 travel recommendations (see CDC. gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers), and research your destinations too so you can know if restrictions apply wherever you’re going.

Medicare Review

Before we dissect how Medicare works for travelers, let’s start with a quick review of your different Medicare options.

One option is original Medicare, which covers (Part A) hospital services and (Part B) doctor’s visits and other medical services.

If you choose original Medicare, you may also want to get a Medicare (Part D) prescription drug plan (if you don’t already have coverage) to cover your medications, and a Medicare supplemental (Medigap) policy to help pay for things that aren’t covered by Medicare like copayments, coinsurance and deductibles.

Or, you could get a Medicare Advantage (Part C) plan instead, which is sold through private insurance companies, and covers everything original Medicare covers, plus many plans also offer prescription drug coverage and extra services like vision, hearing and dental care all in one plan.

To help you evaluate your options contact your state health insurance assistance program (see ShiptaCenter.org), which provides free Medicare counseling.

You can also shop and compare Medicare health and drug plans and Medigap policies at Medicare.gov/ find-a-plan.

Also note that whatever Medicare plans you choose to enroll in, if you find that they are not meeting your needs or your needs change, you can always switch to a different plan during the open enrollment period, which is between Oct. 15 and Dec. 7.

U.S. Travel

If you and your husband are planning to travel domestically, original Medicare may be the better option because it provides coverage everywhere in the U.S. and its territories as long as the doctor or hospital accepts Medicare.

Medicare Advantage plans, on the other hand, which have become very popular among new enrollees, may restrict your coverage when traveling throughout the U.S. This is because most Medicare Advantage plans are HMOs or PPOs and require you to use doctors, hospitals and pharmacies that are in the plan’s network within a service area or geographic region. So, if you’re traveling outside that area you may need to pay a higher fee, or your services may not be covered at all.

If you do decide to enroll in a Medicare Advantage plan, be sure you check the benefit details carefully to see what costs and rules apply when traveling outside your service area.

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Traveling Abroad

If you’re planning to travel abroad much, a Medicare Advantage plan may be a better option because many Advantage plans today offer emergency care coverage outside the U.S. But be sure you check before you choose a plan because not all plans offer it.

Original Medicare, on the other hand, does not provide coverage outside the U.S. and its territories except in rare circumstances (see Medicare.gov/coverage/travel), and Medicare drug plans will not cover prescription drugs purchased outside the U.S. either.

But if you do choose original Medicare, you can still get some coverage abroad through a Medigap policy. Plans D, G, M and N plans will pay for 80% of medically necessary emergency care outside the U.S. to new enrollees, but only for the first 60 days of the trip, and you have to meet an annual $250 deductible first. There’s also a lifetime limit of $50,000, so you’d need to cover any costs above that amount.

Some beneficiaries, regardless of their Medicare coverage, purchase travel medical insurance for trips abroad, which you can shop for at InsureMyTrip.com or SquareMouth. com.

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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IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper

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Page 17

Ask The Social

Security Office

From the Social Security District Office

Replacement or Corrected Social Security Cards During COVID-19

Healthy Living in Middle Age Pays Off in Senior Years

L

ive well, live longer.

New research offers more evidence that the mantra rings true: People who got regular exercise and ate a healthy diet in middle age had a reduced risk of serious health problems as seniors.

“Health care professionals could use these findings to further promote and emphasize to their patients the benefits of a healthy diet and a regular exercise schedule to avoid the development of numerous chronic health conditions in the present and in later life,” said study author Vanessa Xanthakis, an assistant professor of medicine and biostatistics in the section of preventive medicine and epidemiology at Boston University School of Medicine.

Her team analyzed long-term data from nearly 2,400 Americans in a large ongoing U.S. health study to determine how closely they followed U.S. government dietary guidelines and physical activity guidelines.

Physical activity guideline advocate at least 150 minutes of moderate or 75 minutes of vigorous physical activity per week, such as walking or swimming.

The adults in the study were an average age of 47 when assessed between 2008 and 2011, and in their senior years when assessed in 20162019.

In middle age, 28% of the adults followed both the physical activity and dietary guidelines, while 47%

followed only one of the guidelines.

Adhering to the physical activity and dietary guidelines in middle age was associated with a lower chance of developing the metabolic syndrome and other serious health conditions later in life, according to the study published March 31 in the Journal of the American Heart Association.

“The earlier people make these lifestyle changes, the more likely they will be to lower their risk of cardiovascular-associated diseases later in life,” Xanthakis said in a journal news release.

Metabolic syndrome is a cluster of health conditions—including excess fat around the waist, high blood pressure, insulin resistance, high blood sugar, abnormal cholesterol or triglyceride levels—that increase the risk of heart disease, stroke and type 2 diabetes.

The risk of metabolic syndrome was 51% lower among those who followed the physical activity recommendations alone, 33% lower in those who followed the dietary guidelines alone, and 65% lower in those who followed both guidelines.

All of the adults in the study were white, so the findings can’t be generalized to other racial and ethnic groups, and further studies that include a range of racial and ethnic groups are needed, the researchers said.

Don’t Miss The Next Issue of In Good Health.

WOMEN'S HEALTH SPECIAL To advertise in this special issue, please send an email to editor@MVhealthnews.com Page 18

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S

ocial Security offices are currently open only for in-person appointments for limited, critical situations, depending upon local office conditions. However, you can continue to apply for a replacement Social Security card online and by mail. Before requesting a replacement card, please remember that you might not need the physical card.

Most of the time, simply knowing your Social Security number is enough.

If you have a critical situation that requires you to have a physical card and you cannot apply by mail or online, you should call your local Social Security office. Please visit our coronavirus (COVID-19) updates page for more information at www. ssa.gov/coronavirus.

Applying Online

If you don’t need any changes to your Social Security number record (such as a name or date of birth change), applying for a replacement card online is your most convenient option. You don’t need to mail proof or visit an office.

You can use our online application if you are an adult, have a state-issued drivers’ license or non-driver identification card, and live in the District of Columbia or one of the 45 states that verifies state-issued documents for us. All you need to do is create a my Social Security account to access and complete the online application at www.ssa.gov/myaccount/replacement-card.html.

If you live in one of the five states that do not participate — Minnesota, Nevada, New Hampshire, Oklahoma and West Virginia — know that we are working hard to bring this service to you as soon as possible.

Q&A Q: How does Social Security decide if I am disabled?

A: For an adult to be considered disabled, Social Security must determine that you are unable to do the work you did before and that, based on your age, education and work experience, you are unable to adjust to any other work that exists in significant numbers in the national economy. Also, your disability must last or be expected to last for at least one year or to result in death. Social Security pays for total disability only.

No benefits are payable for partial disability or short-term disability

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

Applying by Mail

We require proof of your identity with your replacement card application (www.ssa.gov/forms/ss-5.pdf), usually a state-issued drivers’ license or non-driver identification card, or U.S. passport. We call these documents “primary” identity proofs. We understand mailing primary identity proofs with your replacement card application can be challenging. To help, we are temporarily expanding our policy to accept alternative identity documents — or what we call “secondary proofs” — when you cannot mail primary proof.

Acceptable secondary proofs include, but are not limited to: employee identification card, school identification card, health insurance card (not a Medicare card) and U.S. military identification card.

These proofs must be current (not expired), show your name and identifying information (such as your date of birth or age), and be an original or a certified copy.

If you need to change your name, when you mail your replacement card application, you will need to submit proof of identity plus proof of the name change. The proof of identity can be primary or secondary proof. Proof of the name change could be a marriage certificate, divorce decree, certificate of naturalization showing the new name, or a court order approving the name change.

You may be able to submit one document to serve as proof of your name change and identity. For example, you may submit a marriage certificate as proof of name change and identity if the certificate shows the marriage occurred within the prior two years and includes your prior name; includes your age, birth date or parents’ names; this information matches your Social Security number record.

We will return any documents you send us.

(less than a year). For more information, read our publication, Disability Benefits, at www.ssa.gov/pubs.

Q: My daughter receives SSI and child support from her father. Does the child support have to be reported?

A: Yes. The child support your daughter receives is countable income for SSI purposes. As with any income received for an individual or a parent, if the child is under 18, it needs to be reported to your local Social Security office. For more information regarding the SSI program, visit www.ssa.gov/disabilityssi/ssi. html.

Health News Jim Reed Takes Over as New Excellus BCBS President and CEO Excellus BlueCross BlueShield announced in May that James R. Reed has been appointed chief executive officer of the $6.2 billion health plan and its parent company, The Lifetime Healthcare Companies.

Reed has been serving as president and CEO-elect since July 2020 and succeeds Christopher C. Booth who retired after leading the company since 2013.

“Jim is strategic in his approach, has a strong sense of mission and brings a wide array of experience to the job,” said Marianne Gaige, chairwoman of the company’s board of directors. “He has been a leader in this company for 25 years and has been instrumental in shaping the company’s future in today’s ever-changing health insurance industry.”

Magazine features CNY HearStrong champion Sherry Anne Utica’s own recording artist Sherry Anne is on the spring 2021 cover of “Hearing Life” magazine.

She is featured in “The Joy of Music” cover story of the magazine published by the Hearing Loss Association of America.

The feature story shares her journey of overcoming hearing Sherry Anne loss to become an award-winning singer-songwriter.

Anne was named a HearStrong Champion by the Syracuse-based Hear Strong Foundation in 2020.

“Personal stories, such as Sherry Anne’s, are a powerful tool to help people with hearing loss find encouragement,” said Carrie Johnson, director of communications, Hearing Loss Association of America, Rockville, Maryland.

Anne has bilateral hearing loss that was not diagnosed until she was in kindergarten. Receiving one, and then a second, hearing aid enabled her to learn, communicate and excel in academics, athletics and the arts. Her journey is not without the struggles of bullying and other social impacts experienced by those with hearing loss, but as an award-winning singer-songwriter, speaker, and author Sherry Anne embodies a message of hope for those facing any kind of obstacle.

“I hope the readers of Hearing Life, who experience hearing loss at any level, and at any age, will be inspired to explore their opportunities and discover just how much technology there is for us all to live a better life,” said Sherry Anne. “My message is to encourage anyone facing any kind of obstacle to not let it hold you back from an abundant life.”

Anne has received nationally recognized awards for her singing and songwriting. Her first live con-

Jim Reed, new President and CEO of Excellus BCBS. cert DVD debuted in the top 5 on the Billboard video chart. She has sung as a special guest with the Grammy Award-winning Gaither Vocal Band, and been a keynote speaker at women’s and single’s conferences across the U.S. She has acted in two feature films. She was named a HearStrong Champion in 2020. To learn, see and hear more, including her video of “Silent Prayer” with segments for those with hearing loss and for those who have lost a loved one, please visit www.sherryanne.com.

Loretta Mosher receives MSN degree Little Falls Hospital (LFH), part of Bassett Healthcare Network, recently announced that Loretta Mosher, nurse manager of education for Bassett’s northern region, has achieved her master’s degree in nursing (MSN).

Nurse executives are responsible for performing leadership roles in the nursing field and promoting creativity within nursing teams. Additionally, they demonstrate financial responsibility and provide employees with continuing education opportunities.

Nurse executives design and manage patient care plans and cultivate networks for quality care and wellness.

To become a nurse executive, individuals must earn a bachelor’s degree in nursing followed by an MSN. The master’s program generally takes two years to complete.

Mosher received her master’s at Chamberlain University’s College of Nursing based in Chicago.

“I wanted to obtain my master’s as a nurse executive to develop skills in nursing leadership, enhance communications, propel organizational development and foster critical thinking. These skills will help with process improvement and project management,” says Mosher.

Mosher started at Little Falls Hospital in 2006. From 2006 to 2014, she worked in LFH’s emergency department then transitioned to quality resources until 2017. From 2017 to present, Mosher has worked in nursing education, most recently accepting a position as Bassett Healthcare

Reed joined Excellus BlueCross BlueShield in January 1996. Prior to serving as president and CEOelect, his roles included executive vice-president of marketing and sales, and Central New York regional president. As president and CEO, he assumes responsibility for the entire operation, including fulfilling the company’s mission and fostering the company’s corporate culture.

“Our focus remains on providing access to high-quality health care to as many people as possible at a price they can afford,” Reed said.

“As a locally based health plan, we are partners with those who provide care and those who pay for it and we want to build on that going forward.”

The Lifetime Healthcare family of companies includes its nonprofit health plan, with 1.5 million members in 39 New York counties and about 3,900 employees. The health plan does business as Excellus BlueCross BlueShield across the Roch-

ester region, Central and Northern New York, the Utica region and the Southern Tier and operates as Univera Healthcare in eight counties surrounding the Buffalo area.

Related entities include the national long-term care insurance company, MedAmerica Inc., and the employee benefit firm, Lifetime Benefit Solutions, Inc. Over the course of his career, Reed has been involved in the community through various nonprofit organizations. He serves on multiple committees and boards in the regions, including CenterState CEO, ROC 2025, Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce, and the BlueCross BlueShield Association.

Reed earned his bachelor’s degree in business administration and his master’s degree in business administration from Le Moyne College in Syracuse.

Reed, age 50, and his wife reside in Skaneateles and have three children.

Network’s Regional nurse manager of education in December 2020.

Keller grew up locally, in Mohawk. After finishing high school, she moved out of state to pursue a public relations career in the field of motorsports. After almost two decades working in the fast-paced world of racing (NASCAR & IHRA drag racing), she returned to her roots in Upstate New York. Keller now lives in a house just two blocks from where she grew up as a teenager.

She earned her bachelor’s degree in business administration with a minor in marketing from the University of Central Florida.

Excellus welcomes new managers to Utica region Excellus BlueCross BlueShield recently welcomed two new managers in the Utica region: Regional Communications and Community Relations Manager Adrian Colosimo, and Community Investments and Partnerships Manager Shayna Keller.

Colosimo and Keller work collaboratively to support Utica Regional President Eve Van de Wal as Excellus BCBS continues to strengthen community relationships, reinforce its commitment to community partners and seeks out new and impactful community investments.

As the regional communications and community relations manager, Colosimo is responsible for the organizations public relations, media relations, external and internal communications. Prior to joining Excellus BCBS, she spent over 15 years working in marketing and communications for a local medical group.

Colosimo attended high school and college locally and currently resides in Sauquoit with her husband and two children. She earned her bachelor’s degree in marketing from Utica College and went on to complete her MBA at SUNY Institute of Technology in Marcy.

Shayna Keller joined the Excellus BCBS team two years ago as the community engagement program manager for safety net and individual market sales. In this position she engaged with community business organizations, providers, and small businesses. Keller established herself as a resource for community organizations and a liaison to Excellus BCBS. In her new role as community investments and partnerships manager, Keller will continue to build on the foundation she’s established within the local community. She is responsible for overseeing sponsorships, community health awards, and grants in the Utica region to ensure that investments align with Excellus BCBS’s mission of increasing access to care and improving health outcomes.

June 2021 •

Renee Dingman gets Zero Harm Hero Award Little Falls Hospital announced that registered nurse Renee Dingman of inpatient unit is recipient of the Zero Harm Hero Award.

Dingman has been with Little Falls Hospital, part of the Renee Dingman Bassett Healthcare Network, since August 2020.

Colleagues that nominated her, describe her this way: “... Renee is a team player and always tries to seek out nurses or aides that need extra assistance. Renee provides a teachback method to demonstrate quality education and patient safety to her colleagues. Renee is always willing to help everyone and anyone. When she has finished her own work, she will assist the next shift to dispense medications. Renee is always helping.

I cannot express what an amazing nurse she is. She deserves the Zero Harm Hero Award.”

The Zero Harm Hero Award at Little Falls Hospital was created to help promote an already strong culture of quality, safety and patient satisfaction, assuring high reliability care for our patients, staff and visitors. This award recognizes any Little Falls Hospital employee who demonstrates a commitment to this work.

IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper

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Page 19

WE CARE LIKE FAMILY

We are growing and have exciting career opportunities in the health care industry.

To join our talented, professional team, please visit one of our care facilities career pages for available positions.

Become a part of Our Family!

Life in balance.

A company philosophy that speaks to a continual process of individual and collective development to improve our well-being, quality of life and personal relationships.

17 Sunrise Drive Oswego, NY 13126 315-342-4790 | www.MorningstarCares.com

Our Mission.

To provide people in our community with healthcare, customer services, support & employment to achieve their individual best quality of life.

Our Vision.

RESIDENTIAL CARE CENTER

To redefine skilled nursing care through successful team development, use of technology, progressive service and being a strong community partner.

Our Team.

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Waterville

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

220 Tower Street, Waterville, NY 13480 315-841-4156 | www.WatervilleCares.com

Assisted Living Community

132 Ellen Street, Oswego, NY 13126 315-343-0880 | www.TheGardensByMorningstar.com

Aaron

Manor

Rehabilitation and Nursing Center

100 St. Camillus Way, Fairport, NY 14450 585-377-4000 | www.AaronManor.com