in good
Meet Your Administrator
February 2016 • Issue 120
Herkimer County HealthNet’s Dr. Thomas C. Curnow See Page 9
MVhealthnews.com
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Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper
Detoxify Your Body Certain foods accelerate body’s cleansing process
See Page 5
Golden Years Special Edition
Meet Your Doctor
Tap into the latest information hotline See Page 3
The fight against Parkinson’s See Page 13
Oysters
• A ‘key’ decision must be made — Page 7 • Will you live to see 100? — Page 8
Is there any truth to their libidoboosting power? Read “SmartBites” column inside
Half of Those with Glaucoma Don’t Know They Have it — Are You at Risk? Page 8 February 2016 •
Ophthalmologist Anthony J. Palumbo See Page 4
Camille Cosby
Should she be forced to testify against Bill? Page 15
IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper
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CALENDAR of
HEALTH EVENTS
Got a health-related activity or event that you would like publicized? Call Lou Sorendo at 315-749-7070 or email lou@cnymail.com. Mondays
Support group for OCD sufferers The Central New York Obsessive Compulsive Foundation, Inc., a registered nonprofit agency, has offered OCD sufferers in the region a weekly support group since 1997. Brian’s OCD Support Group meets from 6:30-8 p.m. every Monday except holidays in the Sister Regina Conference Room, first floor, St. Elizabeth Medical Center, 2209 Genesee St., Utica. Meetings are professionally assisted the third Monday of each month. For more information, call founder Susan Connell at 315-768-7031, email her at info@cnyocf.org, visit www.cnyocf.org or check out Cen NY OCD Support Group on Facebook. A speakers’ bureau is available at no cost.
Women’s support group to get together
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A women’s support/therapy group is meeting weekly from 5:30-7 on Mondays. Groups will be held in a confidential location in New Hartford and group size will be limited to protect anonymity. Topics of discussion may include family issues, stress, anger, relationships, grief, and more. Clinical therapist Cynthia Davis, who has over 20 years of experience, will lead the group. To pre-register, contact Davis at 315-736-1231, 315-794-2454 or email cindycsw@yahoo.com.
Tuesdays
Insight House offers family support group Insight House Chemical Dependency Services, Inc. is offering a family support group meeting from 6:15-7:30 p.m. Tuesdays at Insight House, 500 Whitesboro St., Utica. The group is free and open to anyone who is concerned about a loved one’s relationship with alcohol, opiates/heroin, or other substances. For more information about the group, call 724-5168, ext. 265, from 8:30-4 p.m. weekdays. All calls are strictly confidential.
Wednesdays
In Good Health: Mohawk Valley’s No. 1 source of health news! Page 2
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MVHS begins chapel prayer sessions Mohawk Valley Health System invites patients, residents, families
IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • February 2016
and staff members of all faith traditions to join together in prayerful meditation in regular sessions called Prayerful Pauses. Prayerful Pauses will be held at 2:30 p.m. each Wednesday of the month in the following rotation: • First Wednesday: St. Marianne Cope Chapel at St. Elizabeth Medical Center • Second Wednesday: St. Luke’s Campus Chapel • Third Wednesday: Faxton Campus Chapel • Fourth Wednesday: St. Luke’s Home Chapel Individuals are welcome to pause and pray or meditate on their own if there is a fifth Wednesday in the month. Faxton St. Luke’s Healthcare and SEMC are affiliates under the MVHS.
Wednesdays/Thursdays
Overeaters Anonymous plans meetings Overeaters Anonymous meets from 5:30-6:30 p.m. every Wednesday in Room 101 (first floor) at Rome Memorial Hospital, 1500 James St., Rome. It also meets from 7-8 p.m. every Thursday at Oneida Baptist Church, 242 Main St., Oneida. Participants are asked to use the rear door. There are no dues, fees, weighins or diets. For more information, call OA at 315-468-1588 or visit oa.org.
Feb. 2
Dialysis center offering program The Dialysis Center at the Mohawk Valley Health System offers an educational program for those who have been diagnosed with chronic kidney disease. The program will take place from 1-3:30 p.m. Feb. 2 in Weaver Lounge at the Faxton Campus, 1676 Sunset Ave., Utica. Registration is required as seating is limited. Contact Cindy Christian, CKD program coordinator, at 315-624-5635 or cchristi@ mvhealthsystem.org. According to the National Kidney Foundation, 26 million Americans have CKD and millions of others are at risk for developing the disease. Early detection and intervention helps to prevent the progression of kidney disease to kidney failure, known as end stage renal disease.
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Who You Gonna Call?
2-1-1
New information resource available via phone
By Barbara Pierce
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11 — an easy to remember telephone number — will connect you to a live person for information and human services support. It’s a free, confidential referral and information helpline. Multi-lingual interpreters are available when needed. 211 is committed to being the first, most essential resource to anyone who needs help. “2-1-1 Mid-York was launched in February of 2015,” said 2-1-1 Liaison Betty-Joan Beaudry. 2-1-1 Mid-York provides answers and assistance to people in Madison, Oneida and Herkimer counties. As of January, all of New York state is covered by 211 services. Call 211 anytime — 24 hours a day, seven days a week — to speak with a person in your area who can put you in touch with local resources. You can find help with food, with utilities, employment opportunities, health care, support groups, addiction services and much more. “We’re getting lots of calls,” add-
ed Beaudry. Close to 3,000 persons have called since they began a year ago. “Most of the calls we get are from people who need help with the basics, such as food, clothing and housing,” said Beaudry. “As a new 2-1-1, part of that has been fueled because we concentrated marketing to folks we know lack basic needs.” But Beaudry wants people to know their referral services are available to anyone in the community for whatever service they need — transportation, child care, health care, education, employment — the list is long. “We’re here for everyone,” stressed Beaudry. “Anyone may find that they need us. We want people to know this. We are comprehensive to address all the needs of all the local people.” Beaudry describes one caller whose family member had a fall and needed assistance to stay in her home. The caller was referred to in-home assistance with meals and
housework and for the specialized medical equipment she needed. Or, another call came for help with the utility bill. During the conversation, a 2-1-1 specialist learned the caller was newly bereaved and also needed resources to help with his bereavement. Or, 47-year-old Chris of Rome, who was at his wit’s end when he called 2-1-1. Recently divorced, his health insurance had been through his ex-wife so he was without insurance. And he had filed his income taxes jointly and didn’t know how to prepare his taxes as a single person. A 2-1-1 specialist referred him to ACR Health for help in applying for health insurance and also put him in touch with the Asset Building Coalition to help him complete his taxes.
Discover educational resources
2-1-1 is your road to a successful future. Whether you’re looking to prepare for your GED test, learn about community colleges and continuing education programs, or find
Pastor Jack lost 175 lbs. and found a whole new life. A simple trip to the mailbox used to be a grueling excursion. But since Pastor Jack had weight-loss surgery at Crouse, he’s found his old self. He also found a caring and compassionate team to help him along his journey. From trusted surgeons to nutritional experts to a support group that shares everything from flavorful recipes to a healthy dose of inspiration. Hear Pastor Jack’s story at crouse.org/weightloss.
February 2016 •
out about tuition loans and grants, 2-1-1 can provide information. You’ll find information about English as a second language education and literacy programs for children and adults, early learning initiatives for preschool-aged children and after-school enrichment programs for students in kindergarten through high school. If you’ve lost your job, need job training, or income assistance, 2-1-1 is there to help. If you are in an emotionally abusive or physically dangerous relationship, or struggling with bullying, sexual assault, alcohol abuse or suicidal thoughts, 2-1-1 is your first step to safety. The confidential, judgment-free, cost-free resource aids women, men, teens and children who find themselves in situations of emotional and physical abuse or who need help getting out of dangerous or threatening living situations. They help you recognize the signs of bullying and abuse and provide you with information about emergency shelters and safe houses as well as programs that provide a safe and confidential path out of domestic violence and emotional abuse. A 2-1-1 service for Madison, Herkimer and Oneida counties had been discussed for more than 10 years. It finally became a reality when the United Way of the Valley and Greater Utica Area was prompted by the Oneida County Youth Services Council to look into 2-1-1 again. The Youth Council assisted United Way to make 2-1-1 Mid-York a reality. 2-1-1 can be reached from a landline, cell phone, or the Internet. 2-1-1 Mid-York was expected to come online as of Feb. 11. The website www.211midyork. org provides instant access to a search-friendly database of the health and human service listings for Madison, Oneida and Herkimer counties. Whether you phone or go online, 2-1-1 Mid-York can connect you with help for basic needs, assistance during a crisis or disaster, mental health services, volunteer opportunities, finding or keeping employment, income support, help if you’re new to the area, and health care resources. Also, 2-1-1 Mid-York’s search-friendly database will have a dedicated section on resources designed to meet the needs of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families to connect with existing services and for the service community to gather information about what gaps in service exist. Burning building? Call 9-1-1. Burning question? Call 2-1-1.
Is Weight Loss Surgery Right for You? Upcoming FREE Seminars: Feb. 1 • Feb. 18 • Feb. 20 Mar. 7 • Mar. 17 • Mar. 26 To register: crouse.org/weightloss 315/472-2464
IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper
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New Dietary Guidelines: Boost fruit, veggie intake, limit sugar, salt
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mericans need to cut back on added sugars, saturated fats and salt if they want to eat a diet that can improve their health, according to the federal government's latest version of its dietary guidelines. The guidelines, released early in January, break new ground by specifically recommending that people limit added sugars to fewer than 10 percent of their daily calories. The last version of the guidelines, which came out in 2010, only said that people should reduce their intake of added sugars without setting a specific goal. The guidelines are updated every five years, so they keep up with current science. The new recommendations — called the 2015-2020 Dietary Guidelines for Americans — also ask that people limit saturated fats to fewer than 10 percent of their daily calories, and consume fewer than 2,300 milligrams per day of salt. That's a bit less than one teaspoon of salt. Overall, the guidelines emphasize the adoption of a healthy eating pattern that fits into a person's lifestyle, rather than recommending specific amounts of different foods, such as vegetables or meats. "These patterns can be tailored to an individual's personal preferences, enabling Americans to choose the diet that is right for them," the report states. The guidelines even provide three examples of a healthy eating plan that people can adopt: a healthy American diet; a Mediterranean-style diet; and a vegetarian diet. The emphasis on a healthy eating plan is meant to be more consumer-friendly, making it easier for people to use the guidelines, experts said. According to the new guidelines, a healthy eating pattern includes: • Any type of vegetables, especially if they're eaten in a wide variety. • Fruits, especially whole fruits. • Grains, at least half of which are whole grains. • Fat-free or low-fat dairy, including milk, yogurt, cheese, and/ or fortified soy beverages. • A variety of protein sources, including seafood, lean meats and poultry, eggs, beans and peas, nuts and seeds, and soy products. • Oils. If alcohol is consumed, it should be done so in moderation — up to one drink a day for women and up to two drinks a day for men, the guidelines say.
Meet
Your Doctor
By Patricia J. Malin
Dr. Anthony J. Palumbo
Ophthalmologist and eye surgeon Anthony Palumbo was recently honored by the city of Utica for his 20th year in business at the Dove Eye Care Center, which he established at 4350 Middle Settlement Road in New Hartford. He recently spoke with In Good Health senior writer Patricia J. Malin about his 39 years in medicine. Q.: Why did you decide to practice in the Mohawk Valley? A.: I grew up in Utica and attended local schools here. Q.: What prompted you to get into health care? Were there any family influences? A.: It was a circuitous voyage. I graduated with a degree in chemical engineering from Clarkson University and I was commissioned a U.S. Navy lieutenant qualified for command at sea. I then continued as a research assistant in the field of investigative DNA studies at the Masonic Research Lab, Utica. However, health care and the need to serve others has always been a family passion. This was a lifeline for my mother, Mary, who worked as an aide at Broadacres in Utica, a former nursing home. She inspired not only me, but was also a mentor and supporter to my sister, Clorinda, who served as a medical laboratory technologist and caregiver. My brother, Philip, pursued a career as pharmacist. My dad was a proud member of the Utica Police Department, serving over 33 years. Q.: What specific diseases and disorders do you treat? A.: We are engaged in daily comprehensive evaluations and treatments, both involving routine and challenging medical issues pertinent to eye care. We provide complete medical care for glaucoma, diabetes, macular degeneration, cataracts and other diseases affecting the eyes. We can help you minimize your dependence on glasses and contacts. We can do advanced cataract microsurgery with lens implantation and laser vision correction microsurgery. We continue to refine and revisit all refractive parameters to achieve vision beyond 20/20 acuity. Q.: What is the most challenging aspect of your job? A.: The most interesting and challenging aspects of eye care are centered upon educating patients about healthcare issues. To empower patients allows them the capacity to focus on a holistic approach to their wellbeing and heightens their success in longevity. Embracing responsible health care issues helps serve their eye care needs. Attitude is at the pinnacle of success. Often patient expectations are highly unrealistic, but failure is often most common relative to their compromised compliance. Q.: What is the most fulfilling aspect of your job?
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Dec. 18, 2015 was declared Dr. Anthony Palumbo Day in the city of Utica by an official proclamation from Utica Mayor Rob Palmieri. Sonny Greco, left, assistant to the mayor, presented the proclamation to Palumbo on the 20th anniversary of the Dove Eye Care Center, 4350 Middle Settlement Road in New Hartford, which brought laser eye surgery to the Mohawk Valley.
Lifelines Birthplace: Utica Residence: New Hartford Education: Bachelor’s degree, chemical engineering, Clarkson College, Potsdam (1960); master’s degree, biomedical science with distinction, Bologna University, Bologna, Italy (1967); doctorate, medicine and surgery cum laude, University of Bologna, Italy (1970); Full post-doctoral fellowship/advanced surgical training in cataract/intraocular lens implantation/cornea/glaucoma and refractive surgery, Rochester (1977); mini fellowship/post doctoral skills, oculoplastic surgery, New York City; mini fellowship/post doctoral skills, inaugural surgery of the cornea in laser vision correction technology, St. Thomas Hospital, London, England (1991); mini fellowship/post doctoral surgery in laser vision correction, St. Erik’s Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden; Hospital Cantonal, Fribourg, Switzerland; Tufts University, New England Eye Center, Boston, Mass.; and Milano, Italy Family: Wife, Phyllis; daughters, Joanne Palumbo Mozloom, optometrist; Terese Lyn, lawyer
IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • February 2016
Diet & Nutrition The Balanced Body
By Deb Dittner
Cleansing Naturally Certain foods perfect for detoxifying body “Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food” — Hippocrates
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ippocrates also said “All disease begins in the gut.” These are two quotes that I always refer to when talking to a group of people or individual clients. The words by Hippocrates are words you all should try to live by and understand to make your life the healthiest and happiest possible. In order to keep the gut relatively free of disease you need to incorporate cleansing, alkaline and nutriDittner ent-dense foods into your menu every day. Many foods such as vegetables, fruits, nuts, oils and beans can cleanse detoxifying organs such as the kidneys, liver, intestines, and skin, discouraging damaging toxic buildup. My personal phrase is “an avocado a day keeps the doctor away.” Avocados contain nutrients that will block over 30 different carcinogens and helps the liver detoxify synthetic chemicals found in many personal care products. Avocados also help to lower cholesterol and widen blood vessels, and are a tasty, creamy healthy fat. Then there is the familiar saying, “An apple a day keeps the doctor away.” Apples are high in fiber, binding to cholesterol and some heavy metals. Apples will cleanse the intestines, eliminating toxic build up in the body. To help cleanse the digestive tract, add cabbage to your diet. Cabbage can be prepared in a variety of
ONEIDA, HERKIMER in good
Berry beneficial
Colorful berries such as blueberries, raspberries, strawberries, cranberries, and more contain compounds that decrease damage to the tissues and inflammation that then decreases pain. Berries also contain antibiotic compounds helping to block bacteria and prevent infections. When in season, I love to eat them right off the bush or, once picked, right out of the bowl. Berries can easily be added to smoothies or made into a fruit spread by adding chia seeds. Adding a half-cup of cooked
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Health MV’s Healthcare Newspaper
ways from raw, steamed, in a soup, fermented (sauerkraut), and in a stirfry. Cabbage contains anti-cancer and anti-oxidant properties. Seaweed is a vegetable that, until more recently, many did not think of using here in the States. Seaweed binds with radioactive waste and heavy metals in the body and helps in the elimination process. Seaweed contains numerous minerals needed by the body and also helps in balancing hormones. I will add seaweed to salad dressings and place a piece of kombu to soups and sauces. To help cleanse the intestines and blood, adding garlic will remove bacteria, intestinal parasites, and viruses from the body. Garlic has been used as a natural antibiotic cleansing the respiratory tract of built-up mucus in the lungs and sinuses. Garlic has anti-cancer and antioxidant qualities, helping to remove harmful substances from the body. Dark green leafy vegetables such as kale contain antioxidant and anti-cancer substances that help to cleanse the intestinal tract and strengthen the liver. Steam or sauté kale with garlic and onions as a side dish, add to soups, bake into kale chips for a snack, and you have added quality fiber.
MADISON
COUNTIES
A monthly newspaper published by Local News, Inc. 20,000 copies distributed. To request home delivery ($15 per year), call 315-749-7070.
In Good Health is published 12 times a year by Local News, Inc. © 2016 by Local News, Inc. All rights reserved. Mailing Address: 4 Riverside Drive, Suite 251, Utica, NY 13502 • Phone: 315-749-7070 Email: lou@cnymail.com
beans (my favorite is black beans) to basically any meal will add fiber to help lower cholesterol, help regulate blood sugar and cleanse the intestines. Legumes also contain anti-cancer properties. Cooked chick peas — also known as garbanzo beans — can also be made into the dip hummus. Hummus combined with celery, cucumber or carrots makes a delightful snack. Celery and celery seeds and celeriac for that matter, will cleanse the blood and are anti-cancer in nature. Celery is also known as an anti-inflammatory and detoxifies. Celery and its counterparts can be eaten raw, with nut butter, or added to soups and stews. One of my favorite winter fruits is ruby red grapefruit. Grapefruit detoxifies the liver and intestines. The fiber in grapefruits adheres to cholesterol and heavy metals, cleansing the blood. Grapefruits are also antiviral, removing viruses from the body. One of the best liver detoxifiers is the lemon. Lemons also contain vitamin C necessary to help boost immunity in winter months. Fresh slices of lemon in a cup of warm pure
water are an excellent way to start the day from hydrating the body to cleansing daily. Roasting root vegetables is also another winter practice I do frequently. My favorite is beets due to their deep red color and sweet taste. Beets help to cleanse the liver and purify the blood. To your roasted vegetables, you can also add carrots, celery, turnips, parsnips and butternut squash. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and fresh sprigs of thyme add magnificent flavor. Listening to the wise words of Hippocrates by eating a variety of vegetables and fruits will help you detoxify and cleanse your body from harmful substances. Enjoy all of my favorites or start by adding a new choice each week. You’ll love how good you feel. • Deborah Dittner is a nurse practitioner and health consultant for amateur and professional athletes. If you’re an amateur or professional athlete looking to increase your energy, boost your performance and shorten recovery time, check out www.debdittner.com to learn how.
AHA to celebrate National Wear Red Day
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Editor & Publisher: Wagner Dotto Associate Editor: Lou Sorendo Contributing Writers: Patricia Malin, Barbara Pierce, Kristen Raab, Deb Dittner Advertising: Donna Kimbrell Layout & Design: Eric J. Stevens Office Manager: Alice Davis No material may be reproduced in whole or in part from this publication without the express written permission of the publisher. The information in this publication is intended to complement — not to take the place of — the recommendations of your health provider.
he American Heart Association’s Go Red For Women movement in Utica is asking everyone to help America Go Red this year. On National Wear Red Day Feb. 5, it’s more important than ever for women to stand side-by-side to end heart disease.
February 2016 •
The Rome National Wear Red Day luncheon will be held beginning at 11 a.m. Feb. 5 at the Beeches Inn and Conference Center, Rome. Visit GoRedForWomen.org or contact the American Heart Association office at 315-580-3964 for more information.
IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper
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Golden Years Over-the-counter ED treatments unproven
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rom horny goat weed to ginseng and maca, over-the-counter dietary supplements sold to improve male sexual health contain a wide variety of “natural” ingredients. Researchers from Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center reviewed the scientific evidence for the most common ingredients to determine if they are effective — and most importantly — safe. The results are published online in the Journal of Sexual Medicine. “While certain natural supplements we reviewed show promise for improving mild sexual dysfunction, they lack robust human evidence,” said physician Ryan Terlecki, associate professor of urology and senior author. “In addition, because of concerns that some products are impure or weak, we do not routinely recommend these products to our patients.” For some products, there is no scientific evidence to support claims that can positively impact erectile function, libido and sexual performance. And perhaps most troubling, some products that are advertised as being “natural,” contain traces of phosphodiesterase-5-inhibitors
(PDE5Is), the same class of medication that includes prescription drugs such as Viagra, used to treat erectile dysfunction. One study revealed that 81 percent of tested samples of overthe-counter products purchased in the U.S. and Asia contained PDE5Is. “PDE5Is cannot yet be legally sold over the counter in this country,” said Terlecki. “Men who use these medications without a physician’s supervision run the risk of taking them inappropriately. Patients with advanced heart disease, for example, or who take nitrates, such as nitroglycerin, should not use PDE5Is as it may cause an unsafe drop in blood pressure. Likewise, men with severe liver impairment or end-stage kidney disease requiring dialysis should avoid these products.” In addition, Terlecki said, men with enlarged prostates who take medications such as Flomax (tamsulosin), terazosin or doxazosin need to know how to time the dosing of the two medications to avoid causing dizziness and potential falls, which may result in fractures. An estimated 40 to 70 percent of men experience some form of sexual dysfunction during their lives. Due to concern regarding costs of prescription drugs, or embarrassment over discussing sexual concerns with their physicians, some men turn to over-the-counter products. According to a recent nationwide survey, 50 percent of respondents reported using dietary supplements for a variety of conditions. “There is a dizzying array of formulations available and the health effects of nutraceuticals are often confusing to patients and medical practitioners alike,” Terlecki said. “We reviewed the current evidence available for each of the ingredients in top-selling men’s health products to provide urologists with a guide they could use to counsel their patients. “Patients are paying more than $5 per day to take products with no proven effectiveness,” he said.
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(315)724-5168 1-800-530-2741 www.insighthouse.com 500 Whitesboro Street, Utica New York 13502 Page 6
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By Jim Miller
How to find discounts for people with disabilities Dear Savvy Senior,
Are there any worthwhile discounts available to people with disabilities, and if so, how can I find them? My wife — who’s 48 — has multiple sclerosis that now requires her to use a wheelchair. Need to Save Dear Need, There are actually a wide variety of discounts and services available to people with disabilities and those living with a chronic illness that can literally save you hundreds and even thousands of dollars each year. Here are some tips to help you find them. Always Ask
The first thing to know is that most businesses that offer discounts to people with disabilities or their escorts don’t publicize them, so it’s important to always ask. Also note that most nonprofit organizations and government agencies that provide disabled services or benefits will require proof of disability through a letter from your doctor or some other form of verification before they will accommodate you.
Search Locally
The disabled discounts available to your wife will vary depending on where you live, so a good place to start is to contact the local chapter of the nonprofit organization that specializes in your particular disease or disability — in your wife’s case that would be the National Multiple Sclerosis Society (nationalmssociety. org, 800-344-4867). Local chapters often know where to find discounts on the medical supplies, mobility equipment and support services. Some organizations have even negotiated special discounted rates with suppliers, and a few even provide subsidized equipment directly. To search for other disability or disease specific organizations, use any Internet search engine, any type in your disease or disability followed by organizations — for example “Arthritis Organizations” or “Hearing Loss Organizations.”
Search Online
DisabledDiscounts.com is one of the best resources for finding disabled discounts online. This is a free website that lists thousands of discounts in all 50 states. You search by state and county in 30 different categories ranging from assistive technology to federal and state tax discounts, entertainment to educa-
IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • February 2016
tion and so much more. Also visit Benefits.gov and BenefitsCheckUp.org, two great sites that will help you look for financial assistance programs your wife and you may be eligible for, and will tell you how to apply. And see Disability. gov, a site that connects people with disabilities to helpful programs and services in your area.
Types of Discounts
Here are a few examples of the different types of disabled discounts and services that are out there. • Recreation: Most movie theaters, museums, zoos, theme parks and aquariums provide reduced admission to people with disabilities or their escort. And, the National Park Service offers the “America The Beautiful Access Pass” (see nps.gov/ findapark/passes.htm) to disabled residents, which provides a lifetime of free access into all national parks and federal recreational lands. • Taxes: There are numerous federal tax deductions and credits available to people with disabilities, and a number of states and counties also offer property tax deductions to disabled homeowners. • Utilities: Many utility companies, including electric, gas, phone, water and trash services offer discounts to customers who are disabled, elderly or low income. • Communication devices: Forty seven states have equipment distribution programs (see tedpa.org) that offer free amplified telephones to residents with hearing impairment. • Home modifications: There are a number of federal, state, local and nonprofit organizations that help pay for home accessibility improvements like wheelchair ramps, handrails and grab bars for elderly and disabled people in need. • Travel: Amtrak offers a 15 percent rail fare discount to adult passengers with a disability and up to one traveling companion. • Reading services: For those with vision or physical impairments that make it difficult for them to read, the Library of Congress (see loc.gov/ nls) offers a “Talking Books” program that provides free audiobooks, magazines and audio equipment. And the National Federation of the Blind offers a free newspaper and magazine reading service at nfbnewslineonline.org. Send your senior questions to: Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070, or visit www.savvysenior. org. Jim Miller is a contributor to the NBC Today show and author of “The Savvy Senior” book.
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Alternatives to hanging up the car keys
Extended Payment Plans through Care Credit
By Barbara Pierce
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Losing their ability to drive is the greatest fear for older people,” said Ed Welsh, Northeast regional general manager, AAA of Utica. “My father is 79; he drives very well, but the fear of not being able to drive is on his mind. I want to see him driving for a long time in the future.” “It’s not about the joy of driving,” added Welsh. “It’s all about ‘I want to go someplace now.’” When older adults must stop driving, it has a negative effect on their health and well-being and often leads to depression. Those who must stop driving are five times more likely to enter a long-term care facility than those who remain behind the wheel, according to a report by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety. Harriet Kelly has one word to describe the day she stopped driving four years ago: “Miserable!” “It’s no fun when you give up driving,” she says. “I just have to say that.” Kelly, who lives in Denver, says she was in her 80s when she noticed her eyesight declining. She got anxious driving on the highway, so decided to stop before her kids made the move for her. “I just told them I’d stop driving on my birthday — my 90th birthday — and I did. And I was mad at myself because I did it,” she says, laughing. “I thought I was still pretty good!” Many members in their mid80s and into their 90s do drive, said Welsh. “Our job is to help them stay on the road as long as safely possible.”
Heed advice
Suggestions from Welsh to prolong your driving years: • Be honest with yourself about your limitations. No one but you can judge how competent you are behind the wheel. Keep driving as long as you are physically able and as long as you recognize your limitations. “I don’t see well at night,” said Welsh. “I acknowledge this and limit my driving at night.” It is when people don’t recognize their limitations that the family has to step in and take away the keys. • Consider a compromise. Welsh describes an older member who keeps his car insured and in the garage, in good running condition. He drives himself to church each week, and does other minor driving. However, if the weather is bad, or he has several appointments, he relies on others to get him there. He keeps his connection with his car, but recognizes when he needs to rely on others. “My father used to drive himself
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321 Main St., Oneida, NY 13421
(315) 363-4940 www.oneidanydentist.com Join Us On FACEBOOK
to Florida each year,” said Welsh. “But the trip got to be too much; now he flies down, keeps a car there and drives around there.” Don’t get rid of your car, Welsh suggests. Keep it insured and in running condition. AAA will help keep it in running condition. • Go with your strengths: Schedule your appointments during the times when you’re at your strongest. If you have most energy between 8-11 a.m., make your doctors’ appointments and do your shopping then, rather than when you have less energy. If you must go out at a time when your energy is low, get someone to drive you. Keep your shopping and doctors as close as possible, so the drive is not as burdensome. Why drive for 10 minutes to your favorite store if the store just down the street has similar merchandise and pricing? • Focus on the positive: Instead of pining about what you can no longer do, focus on the things you can do. When you buy another car, make sure you test-drive it. Make sure you can back up, park, work the controls — test everything about it. Don’t be like the 81-year-old woman who brought home her new car and drove it into the garage. When she tried to back out of the garage the next day, she had difficulty and damaged the car and the garage trying to get out. Your ability to turn your head to back up often deteriorates with age. Visibility is a big issue, especially if you’re short. • Find out who gives rides in your area: Develop a relationship with your local senior center, advises Welsh. Get a list of resources. This gives you a sense of empowerment. Start developing this list well ahead of the time you might need it. The Parkway Senior Center in Utica helps with the transition from driving. “I help people find resources that work for them,” said Nancy Hempel, mobility manager at Parkway. “I help determine the alternatives that will work best for the individual.” The Parkway Senior Center has compiled a list of resources for Oneida County and Herkimer County. “We can mail it to you, or drop by and pick it up,” added Hempel. Parkway Senior Center is located at 220 Memorial Parkway, Utica. For more information, call 315-223-3973 or visit www.theparkwaycenter.org. AAA can be reached at 315-7975000.
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Golden Years
Will you live to 100? Surprising signs that you’ll reach the century mark By Barbara Pierce
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hink you’ll live to be 100? If you’re a 65-year-old married female who lives in the Mohawk Valley, you just may. Go online to predict how old you might live. The Living to 100 Calculator was created by Thomas Perls, a geriatrician at Boston Medical Center. It asks you questions about your lifestyle and health and predicts your lifespan. At www.livingto100.com, the Life Expectancy Calculator uses medical and scientific data in order to estimate how old you will live to be. The calculator asks you 40 questions related to your health and family history. Of course, your odds of reaching 100 are partly based on your genes, but there are a few helpful habits you can pick up even if you don’t hit the genetic jackpot. “I’ve met a number of people over the age of 100 over the years,” said Mary Zielinski, administrator at Alpine Rehab and Nursing Center, Little Falls. “One thing I noticed was that they lived “wholesome” lives, no drinking or smoking. And they were usually highly religious.” “I do believe that people who have a strong support system of families and neighbors have an improved quality of life, as well as a longer life,” added Zielinski. Zielinski is right on. Here are some things that predict you’ll have a long life: • You have lots of friends: Study after study has found that people who are socially isolated die at a younger age, even if they are content in their lives. Translation: Quit viewing time with friends as a luxury. Lunching with a friend, joining a book club, or getting involved in a religious organization is just what the doctor ordered. • You look on the bright side: Centenarians tend to be optimistic
and consider laughter an important part of life. The majority of 100-yearolds think laughing and having a sense of humor is crucial for healthy aging. Everyone has a different sense of humor, but focus on finding things that make you laugh. Go out of your way to make yourself smile at least once a day. Laughter is a natural stress reliever. And consider this: “The great secret: One can change things by the manner in which one looks at them,” from author Tom Robins.
Learn to relax
• You’re more Phoebe than Monica: Remember “Friends?” Your chances of living to 100 are higher if you are not neurotic like Monica, the ultra-competitive chef. Those who live longest don’t dwell on things, and let their feelings be known when something bothers them. So if you’re typically wound tighter than a Slinky, channel your inner Phoebe and try meditating, running freely through the park, or maybe even belting out “Smelly Cat.” • You go on vacation: People
who take at least annual vacations are healthier and live longer. Not a luxury, vacations are necessary for a well-balanced, healthy life. Vacations relieve stress, increase your overall happiness with life, and strengthen relationships. “Medically speaking, taking regular vacations is one of the most rewarding prescriptions I can recommend for staying healthy,” says physician Leigh Vinocur online. • You get quality sleep: Those who live longer make bedtime a priority; most regularly log eight or more hours each night. “Sleep is exceptionally important for healthy aging,” says Perls. When you rest, your body gets to work on vital functions and your cells recover from the stresses of daily life. Try to go to bed and wake up at consistent times (even on the weekends), avoid caffeine in the afternoon, and use your bed primarily for sleep and sex (not TV, phone calls, or work). • You have a sense of purpose in life: Those with a sense of purpose live longer and happier lives. Research shows that having purpose and meaning in life increases over-
all well-being and life satisfaction, improves mental and physical health, enhances resiliency, enhances self-esteem, and decreases the chances of depression. • Your dentist loves you: Taking care of your pearly whites goes hand in hand with longevity. Perls discovered that people who lived to 100 were unlikely to use dentures, and most of their own teeth were still intact. “This makes sense because gum disease is associated with inflammation and heart disease,” says Perls. Time to bust out the floss. • You eat like the Italians: No, not at Olive Garden and Sbarro — but the diet found in the olive-growing regions of Mediterranean countries. Sicily has six times as many centenarians as the rest of the country. The older folks there eat a typical Mediterranean diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats from olive oils, nuts, and seeds, while avoiding red meat, refined carbs, and sweets. Snack on fruit or nuts, eat fish at least twice a week, and flavor your food with herbs and spices to mimic the lifestyle.
Half of those with glaucoma don’t know they have it
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pproximately 2.7 million Americans have the potentially blinding eye disease glaucoma, but only half are aware of it. Meanwhile, glaucoma incidence is on the rise. Researchers predict that glaucoma will affect as many as 6.3 million Americas by 2050. The American Academy of Ophthalmology is sharing a list of risk factors that can lead to the disease. Family History: Individuals with a parent or sibling with glaucoma have a nine times higher risk of developing the disease, according to one study. Page 8
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Older Age: As people age, their risk for glaucoma increases. Because this is the case for several eye diseases, the American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends that adults start getting regular comprehensive eye exams at age 40. This is the age when early signs of eye disease and changes in vision may first occur, even if you have seemingly perfect vision. It is important to get comprehensive eye exams from an ophthalmologist, a physician specializing in medical and surgical eye care. African, Hispanic or Asian Heritage: People of African and Hispanic
heritage are three times more likely to have the most common form of glaucoma than Caucasians. Glaucoma-related blindness is at least six times more prevalent in African Americans than in Caucasian Americans. Additionally, people of Asian heritage are at an increased risk of a sudden and acute form of glaucoma known as angle-closure glaucoma. Nearsightedness: People who are nearsighted are more likely to have glaucoma. One study even found that the more severe the nearsightedness, the higher the risk of glaucoma. Type 2 Diabetes: Having Type 2
IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • February 2016
diabetes increases risk of glaucoma. The longer a person has lived with diabetes, the greater their risk for glaucoma becomes. Additionally, when the cornea — the clear, round dome on the front of the eye that covers the iris and pupil — is abnormally thin, IOP readings may be falsely low. This puts patients at increased risk for undiagnosed glaucoma. This is common among those who have had refractive surgery, such as LASIK or photorefractive keratectomy. Another risk factor associated with glaucoma is a history of eye trauma.
Meet
Your Administrator
By Thomas Werth
Dr. Thomas C. Curnow
Herkimer County HealthNet was established in 1990 and operates as a New York State Department of Health Rural Health Network. Dr. Thomas C. Curnow, a Whitesboro native with a background in human services, recently became the new executive director of Herkimer County HealthNet. Q.: What specific population does Herkimer County HealthNet serve? A.: The focus of Herkimer County HealthNet is to improve the health and well-being of all children and adults in Herkimer County. While we are not limited to supporting the health of a specific population, we focus on health issues related to a specific population of individuals, such as people that are pre-diabetic. Q.: What are the primary goals of Herkimer County HealthNet and how will those goals be achieved? A.: HCHN works to establish preventive services for those at risk of developing chronic diseases and to provide interventions for those already living with a chronic disease so they can better manage their illness, avoid complications and prolong life. We accomplish this goal by providing educational classes by trained life coaches using the curriculum developed for the National Diabetes Prevention Program. HCHN promotes physical activity through policy and environmental changes such as the enhancements of community playgrounds, trails, and other public spaces; promotion of healthy eating through working with farmers’ markets, small grocery and convenience stores and reduction of lead poisoning in children. Through a new grant from The Community Foundation of Herkimer & Oneida Counties, Herkimer HealthNet will work collaboratively with a coalition of representatives from each county to eradicate lead poisoning in children. One approach in this goal is to reach out to physicians to assure that all children are tested at age 1 and age 2, and to identify barriers to testing. When funding allows, HCHN also prints guides to promote physical activity and healthy eating. For instance, the
Herkimer County Trails Guide that we’ve been able to produce annually is distributed each spring and throughout the summer to libraries throughout the county. Other primary goals include serving as a Rural Health Network as defined by the NYS Department of Health and its Rural Health Council. We try to improve health outcomes through coordinated services, shared resources, and education of consumers and providers; work closely with health and human services agencies to improve access to care, particularly for the underserved populations; and assist agencies and organizations in developing and implementing a rural health care delivery system. Q.: What affiliated agencies work with Herkimer County HealthNet to meet the needs of the community? A.: Herkimer County HealthNet accomplishes its mission through collaboration and partnership with local county government, healthcare providers and other nonprofit organizations. Examples of successful partnerships include Cornell Cooperative Extension through the Creating Healthy Places grant, The Community Foundation of Herkimer & Oneida County through the foundation-sponsored lead-free Mohawk Valley grant, and the DOH rural health network grant. Herkimer County HealthNet receives grants through the DOH, the Health Foundation of Western and Central New York, Excellus BlueCross BlueShield, and other nonprofit foundations. Q.: What are your duties as the executive director of Herkimer County HealthNet? A.: I manage the day-to-day operations of the agency, serve as staff to the board of directors and assure accountability to the board for all programs, grants and financial operations of the organization. I am the
Curnow
primary liaison with state and local county government officials, health care providers, local businesses and other nonprofit organizations. My job is also to develop new partnerships and opportunities that benefit the health and well-being of Herkimer County communities and future operations of Herkimer HealthNet. Q.: What motivated you to pursue a career in healthcare? A.: I believe my career in health care progressed through my employment experiences and teaching experiences. I have always worked in the broad “human services” field. My experiences include working in the area of intellectual disabilities, mental health and social services. In each of these areas, access to health care is a major issue, particularly as the emphasis in New York state has moved from institutional care to community-based care. Additionally, I am an adjunct faculty member at Utica College in the graduate program for health care administration. In this teaching role, I have been able to leverage my work– based health care systems experience into the education of future health care administrators. Q.: What is your educational specialty? A.: I have a doctoral degree in rehabilitation counseling from Syracuse University with a specialty in administration. I chose rehabilitation counseling because it focuses on the vocational, social, emotional and medical-health conditions of indi-
viduals, and the supports in these areas that would allow a person with a disability or injury to live a life of their choice. Q.: What are your priorities for Herkimer County HealthNet? A.: My priorities are to support the mission of the agency, to develop new partnerships and strengthen existing partnerships, to obtain grant funding in areas that improve the health and well-being of the residents of Herkimer County and to increase the community impact of Herkimer HealthNet. Q.: The New York State DOH has launched a healthcare reform plan called Prevention Agenda for the Healthiest State. How will this impact HCHN? A.: Our priorities are aligned with the state’s prevention agenda. HCHN is focused on prevention of chronic disease and supporting healthy lifestyle choices. HCHN priorities are also aligned with prevention agenda actions items related to promoting healthy and safe environments; promoting healthy women, infants and children; and reducing obesity in children and adults. Q.: What are the main risk assessment areas of concern for Herkimer County HealthNet? A.: Our main risk assessment areas are similar to the state’s prevention agenda. Areas of concern include access to quality healthcare, chronic disease, obesity and Type 2 diabetes that lead to other chronic diseases, home safety and falls, particularly in the elderly population.
Lifelines Age: 65 Hometown: Whitesboro Education: Bachelor of Arts, psychology, Utica College of Syracuse University; Master of Science, rehabilitation counseling, Springfield College, Springfield, Mass; Doctor of Education, rehabilitation counseling (administration specialty), Syracuse University Employment: Catholic Charities, case management supervisor, Utica; Mohawk Valley Workshop (Human Technologies Corp.) program director, Utica; Upstate Cerebral Palsy, Inc., Utica, division director for residential and day services (1986-93), division director for special projects (1993-95), division director of consumer and community services (1995-98), senior vice president of quality development and support, (1998-2010), senior vice president of human resources (2010-13); Cerebral Palsy of Westchester County, chief operations officer, Rye Brook (2013-15) Family: Wife, Gabriela; son, captain in the U.S. Army, Fort Carson, Colorado Springs, Colo.; daughter, certified art teacher in Tampa, Fla. Hobbies: Golf, reading, daily exercise
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Healthcare in a Minute By George W. Chapman
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Telehealth Growing Exponentially
here were just 250,000 telehealth “visits” in 2013. That number is expected to hit 7 million by 2018. Most plans are now paying for telehealth, which means more and more physicians will participate, if only to remain competitive. Telehealth allows physicians to remotely monitor diseases like diabetes and develop care coordination plans. This is a tremendous boon to homebound elderly or those living in predominantly rural areas.
A major impediment to telehealth has been state borders. Getting licensed to practice in different states has been a hassle for physicians. The new Interstate Physician Licensure Compact is an agreement that makes it far easier for physicians to get credentialed in other states. Currently 12 states participate with most being clustered in Western/Central states with large rural populations like Nevada, Idaho, Wyoming, Utah, South Dakota, Iowa, Wisconsin and Illinois. So far, New York has not enacted. Contiguous
states Vermont and Pennsylvania have introduced legislation. Some carriers are getting way ahead of the competition in order to attract and retain business. New York state-based Oscar Health offers telehealth through Teledoc to its 100,000 members for free. Members can call or use the Oscar Health website (www.hioscar. com) to relay their symptoms. A physician responds in less than 10 minutes.
Medical Bills
The No. 1 cause for bankruptcy is still medical debt. 1.7 million Americans will file for bankruptcy this year because they can’t pay their medical bills. A study conducted by NerdWallet (yes, NerdWallet) considered data from the CDC, federal courts and the Commonwealth Fund. Most people max out credit cards, which carry high interest rates. The study also reveals 10 million people with insurance claim they can’t pay all their outstanding medical bills. While ObamaCare has reduced the number of uninsured Americans by 15 million, it isn’t a panacea. The average US household income is about $50,000. The cost of a basic family plan is about $20,000.
percent of healthcare is unnecessary. But how much is attributable to overly demanding patients? According to a study in the American Journal of Managed Care, a lot. Fifty-two percent of primary care physicians admit to making unnecessary referrals to specialists to placate patients. Thirty-nine percent acquiesced to prescribing expensive drugs when equally effective generic drugs were available. It is totally understandable why physicians would want to avoid conflict with their patient customers. Many believe fee for service/volume is a major cause of unnecessary care since there is not a financial incentive for either party to keep costs down. Cost containment incentives are gradually being imposed on physicians and hospitals. Patients can do their part in cost containment by cooperating and becoming informed consumers.
Cost Containment
Most industry experts estimate 30
George W. Chapman is a health consultant who operates GW Chapman Consulting in Upstate New York. To reach him, email gwc@gwchapmanconsulting.com.
In Good Health
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Mohawk Valley Healthcare Newspaper
Reasons to Advertise with In Good Health Free Distribution. The paper is everywhere. Available at more than 1,000 high traffic locations (hospitals, medical centers, doctors’ offices, diners, convenience stores, etc). Content. Stories about the local healthcare industry, all written exclusively for In Good Health. Plus popular columns such as Live Alone, Smart Bites and Savvy Senior. Low Cost Advertising. Advertise for as little as $83. No kidding! Life Span. Each issue available all month long. Niche Market. In Good Health focuses exclusively on healthcare issues. Readership: 75,000 readers based on 20,000 copies distributed monthly. Online. We’re a hard-core print publication — with a great website that reaches additional readers.
Targeting Healthcare Consumers / Providers Call today: 315-749-7070 or send an email to donna@MVhealthnews.com
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IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • February 2016
Business Spotlight Parkway Drugs celebrates milestone Patriarch Rocco Femia Sr. will never ‘sell out’ to drugstore chains By Patricia J. Malin
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occo Femia Sr. can still remember the old days when pharmacies populated almost every neighborhood throughout the Mohawk Valley. There was Daw’s Drugs, Carl’s, Fay’s and Eckerd’s, to name a few. Over the years, giants such as Rite Aid, Walgreens and Kinney arrived and swallowed up most of their local competitors — except for Parkway Drugs. “When we first opened in 1965, there were 50 individual drugstores in Utica-Rome,” said Femia, co-owner of Parkway Drugs. When his company celebrated its 50th anniversary recently, it was an apt occasion for the president of Parkway Drugs Inc. to reminisce. Femia can beam with pride knowing the owners made the right decision to stay small and manageable, and more importantly family owned. Mohawk Valley residents can also appreciate the resolve of the second and third generations of the Femia and Chiffy families to keep it that way. Parkway Drugs has three locations in Utica, yet retains that old-fashioned neighborhood feel and commitment to customer service. “You’ll always work with somebody at our pharmacy who greets you by name, and our pharmacists take the time to get to know you, explain your medication, and answer questions you may have,” its website says. It opened its iconic store on Nov. 3, 1965 at Albany Street and Culver Avenue in east Utica, next to the Parkway Armory, and it is still thriving there. “We filled 28 prescriptions the first day,” Femia recalled with a chuckle. “Now we’re filling 11,000 prescriptions a week.”
In the beginning
Parkway Drugs’ roots date back more than a half century. After Femia graduated from Albany College of Pharmacy in 1960, he began working at Daw’s Drugs on Mohawk Street in east Utica alongside Anthony Chiffy Sr., his brother in-law and a fellow alumnus. Femia said Daw’s was one of the first chain store pharmacies to emphasize self-service, a novel approach at the time. As he watched Daw’s business expand, Femia said he learned from the experience. Eventually, he and Chiffy began to think about replicating that business model. “We thought, “Why can’t we do this better?’” he said. “We copied the Mohawk Street store. Discounting was unheard of in those days. Carl’s and Fay’s — they were all progressive, and then Rite Aid came in,” he added. “They would discount things like Maalox, diabetic supplies or baby formula. They would lower the prices out front to bring the customers into the
Parkway Drugs of Utica celebrated its 50th anniversary recently. Anchoring the operation at Parkway Drugs are, from left, Rocco Femia, Sr., president; Vincent Chiffy, vice president; Tony Chiffy Jr., vice president; Joseph Chiffy, vice president; Rocco Femia II, vice president; and Jim Femia, vice president. The picture they are holding is of the late Tony Chiffy Sr., co-founder of and vice president of Parkway Drugs Corporation. store.” Chiffy had also worked at another local pharmacy, Emdin’s. “That’s where he got the idea to add postal service, where people could buy stamps and pay their bills,” said Femia. “When we started that, the line of customers would go out the door. They can still mail packages and send money orders. It creates traffic. That’s part of our success — that extra service,” he added. From the beginning, Parkway Drugs’ goal was to go beyond the competition. “Daw’s would close at 9:30, so we stayed open until 10,” he said. “We would stay open longer hours and provide better service.” Those early days were grueling, but satisfying. “For the first seven years, we worked seven days a week. We’d leave our homes at 8 in the morning and come home at 11. We had very understanding wives. We give them a lot of credit. It wouldn’t be possible without them. “Tony would work 90 hours a week,” Femia remembered. “We were identical.” Chiffy died in 2014.
Time of expansion
In 1989, Parkway Drugs opened its popular branch next to Chanatry’s supermarket on French Road in south Utica and it enlarged the store in 1999. The branch on Leland Avenue in north Utica was added in 2008. Now Rite Aid and Walgreens have proposed a mega-merger. They have thousands of stores across the
nation, many in proximity to each other, usually on the same street. Randall’s Pharmacy in the village of New Hartford and a few Medicine Shoppes have, like Parkway Drugs, managed to avoid getting “swallowed up,” Femia noted. “We will never sell out.” Femia said he isn’t worried about the changing business environment. “The competition keeps us on our toes,” he said. In fact, Parkway Drugs might fight fire with fire and consider adding a fourth store. “It’s in the works,” Femia said. “But it’s not definite. We are quite happy with what we’re doing.” He is astonished at how well the Femia and Chiffy families integrated, and even more so that many pursued the family business. He and Chiffy have a total of nine children — six of whom joined Parkway Drugs, and 21 grandchildren. Parkway Drugs owners now include Femia Sr., Rocco Femia Jr.,
James Femia, Anthony Chiffy Jr., and Joseph and Vincent Chiffy, who are all registered pharmacists. Mary Anne Chiffy Caruso and Sabrina Femia also came on board as pharmacists. Tricia Femia MacDonough is bookkeeper and human resources manager for all locations. Anne van der Wal, Tony Chiffy’s granddaughter, became a pharmacist at the Albany Street store. The company boasts some 147 employees. “Our children have the same work ethic,” Rocco Femia noted. “They’ll work weekends and holidays. It’s different from a 9-to-5 job.” Femia has partially stepped aside from the operations. “I’m in Florida part of the year, but I still do advertising, payroll, taxes, and make sure we’re profitable,” he said. The patriarch still feels it necessary to provide regular guidance to the family. “We have meetings by telephone on Sunday nights to discuss business,” he said.
Baby Care Basics helps expectant parents prepare
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arents-to-be can learn about childbirth, newborns and other related topics by attending the upcoming Baby Care Basics program from 7-9 p.m. Feb. 10 at Rome Memorial Hospital in the classroom. Sandy Graichen, a maternity nurse at the hospital, will teach the free educational program. She has experience teaching
February 2016 •
childbirth classes, cardiopulmonary resuscitation, and has children of her own. No advance registration is required. Refreshments will be served. Guests are asked to meet the instructor in the hospital lobby, off the North James Street entrance. For more information, call 3387143.
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The Social Ask Security Office Preventing debilitating diseases among women
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Jodi Marie Connor Memorial Scholarship awarded to student Herkimer-Fulton-Hamilton-Otsego BOCES licensed practical nursing student Lauren Grainer recently won the Jodi Marie Connor Memorial Scholarship this Christmas. Connor was a 2003 graduate of the Herkimer BOCES LPN program. Each year, Connor’s father, David Connor, carries on her love of the Christmas season with the awarding of a scholarship to assist a single parent to enjoy Christmas with the parent’s child. Above, Grainer receives the scholarship from David Connor. Grainer attends the full-time licensed practical nursing program. She divides her time between school and caring for her daughter. She said she is excited for the future that her nursing education will open for her family. For information about the Herkimer BOCES nursing program, visit lpn.herkimerboces.schoolfusion.us.
7 Timmerman Ave. St. Johnsville, NY 13452 Phone: 518-568-5037 www.stjrnc.com
The industry leader in skilled nursing and outpatient rehabilitation services.
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ust about every minute, a woman dies of heart disease. But the majority of these deaths are avoidable. That’s why Social Security encourages you to participate in National Wear Red Day on Feb. 5, which aims to raise awareness about preventing heart disease and stroke among women. Social Security plays an important role in many women’s lives — nearly 60 percent of people receiving Social Security benefits are women. Social Security provides important financial assistance to women in times of need, including a sudden illness or an injury leading to disability. While many illnesses and injuries are difficult or impossible to prevent, there are steps that women can take to help prevent some health issues, so that they can live longer and healthier lives. According to the American Heart Association, “heart disease is the No. 1 killer of women, causing one in three deaths each year.” But the American Heart Association reports that this is 80 percent preventable with education and lifestyle changes. Changes in diet and exercise can help prevent these events, along with obtaining preventive healthcare such as cholesterol checks. You can take part in raising awareness about this women’s health issue by wearing red on Feb. 5 to show your support. You can also learn more about heart disease and stroke prevention by visiting www. goredforwomen.org. Raising awareness about women’s health issues is important to improving quality of life for all women. Social Security is also committed to
addressing the unique concerns that women may face in obtaining Social Security benefits, whether they’re seeking benefits for health or other reasons. Women may face different situations than men throughout their lives that can affect their need for benefits. For instance, women are more likely than men to outlive their spouse. Working women earn less on average than men do. Women are more likely to be stay-at-home parents or spouses. All of these circumstances can cause women to have different Social Security needs than men have. In order to address these concerns in one place, we have a website designed for women that provides pertinent information to women regarding Social Security’s services. This website includes information that may be particularly useful to working women, women who receive Social Security benefits, brides, new mothers, wives, divorced women, caregivers and widows. Our website for women provides information on retirement, survivors, disability, and Supplemental Security Income benefits. Our website also contains links to Social Security publications relevant to women’s issues, such as our publications “What Every Woman Should Know and Understanding the Benefits.” You can visit our website for women at www.socialsecurity. gov/people/women. We hope that raising awareness on women’s health issues and providing women easy access to information about Social Security benefits can enrich your life and the lives of those you love.
Q: I was told I shouldn’t be carrying my Social Security card around. Is that true? A: We encourage you to keep your Social Security card at home in a safe place. Don’t carry it with you Even if you’re going to new job or to meet someone who needs it, all they really need is your number — not your card. Identity theft is one of the fastest growing crimes in America, and the best way to avoid becoming a victim is to safeguard your card and number. To learn more, visit our Social Security number and card page at www.socialsecurity.gov/ssnumber. Q: My husband and I are both entitled to our own Social Security benefits. Will our combined benefits
be reduced because we are married? A: No. When each member of a married couple works in employment covered under Social Security and both meet all other eligibility requirements to receive retirement benefits, lifetime earnings are calculated independently to determine the benefit amounts. Therefore, each spouse receives a monthly benefit amount based on his or her own earnings. If one member of the couple earned substantially less than the other or did not earn enough Social Security credits (40) to be insured for retirement benefits, he or she may be eligible to receive benefits as a spouse. To learn more, visit www.socialsecurity.gov/retirement.
Q&A
IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • February 2016
NOT TAKING YOUR PRESCRIPTIONS AS DIRECTED?
YOU’RE TAKING
A CHANCE.
If you have a chronic condition like high blood pressure, diabetes or high cholesterol, taking your prescriptions as directed is essential to healthy living. So remember:
If you’re not taking your prescriptions as directed, you’re taking a chance. To learn more, visit ExcellusBCBS.com/TakeAsDirected. #TakeAsDirected
Dangers of Dehydration Despite being winter, threat of dehydration bigger than ever By Malissa Allen
thick blood to the organs, but the organs are lacking the “willpower” to get rid of toxins it stores daily. Paying close attention to your body’s output of fluids is important.
D
ehydration is just as serious a concern in the winter months as it is in the summer months. But why? Most people are less active and our bodies seem to sweat less in the winter. Plus, we have a tendency of drinking less during cold weather. Nevertheless, our bodies do sweat while trying to stay warm in the battle against the bitter winter. When you walk outside in winter, you might feel cold at first, but by the time you shovel the driveway, the sidewalks and clean off the car, you might find your clothes wet with sweat. Whether it is winter or summer, the release of sweat can lead to dehydration, so no matter the temperature, the loss of body fluids can be a serious issue. Dehydration can mean getting lightheaded or even passing out due to a shortage of fluid in the brain. When it comes to vital organs in the body, especially the heart, dehydration can mean extreme illness and sometimes result in death with chronic dehydration. It is just as important to keep your body well hydrated in the winter months as it is in the heat of the summer. Liquids or water assist the heart with pumping blood through blood vessels to muscles and organs, which in return allows parts of the body to work cohesively.
Beware of symptoms
When the body lacks enough fluids to remain hydrated, the blood flow becomes overly thick, making the heart struggle at a strenuous rate to circulate it to each vital organ that relies on blood to remain healthy. From the brain to the vital organs, hair, nails and skin, muscles, and all around well being, it is vital to stay hydrated. If the heart is lacking enough fluid to properly function, this means other vital organs — such as kidneys, bladder and liver — will suffer and in extreme cases, begin to shut down. With the lack of proper hydration, the body stops ridding itself of toxins which store themselves in the blood stream and in vital organs. Your heart is struggling to pump
Symptoms to be aware of: • If you have clear or light urine, your body is well hydrated. If your urine is a darker color, this is a sign of dehydration. • Dizziness • Dry mouth • Weakness in muscles • Muscle spasms • Not sweating while doing strenuous labor • Heart palpitations • Fainting • Less frequent urination • Unclear thoughts and blurred vision Chronic dehydration can sneak up on you, making you less aware of what is actually happening. In order to keep you healthy and avoid strokes and heart attacks, remember to drink plenty (at least 6
February 2016 •
to 8 glasses) of water per day. If you have a problem drinking regular water, try flavored waters or juices. Do not rely on soda or caffeinated drinks such as coffee and tea due to these acting as diuretics, which leads to even more loss of fluids and much-needed potassium. This goes for sports drinks that contain large amounts of sodium and sugar. Water is instantly absorbed into the bloodstream, whereas with sports drinks the body has to digest sugar and sodium, delaying the time it takes the body to receive fluids. If you are experiencing any of the above symptoms and show signs of dehydration, it is important to seek medical attention. Remember, your heart is depending on you to give it the go power to keep you up and running and walking or just shoveling. — Information for this story was obtained through the following online sources: • http://www.webmd.boots. com/healthy-eating/guide/dehydration-adults • http://www.heart.org/ HEARTORG/HealthyLiving/ PhysicalActivity/FitnessBasics/ Staying-Hydrated---StayingHealthy_UCM_441180_Article.jsp#. VqECa_krLIU • http://hbmag.com/chronicdehydration-part-8-water-can-prevent-heart-attack-stroke/
IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper
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Meet
KIDS Corner
Your Doctor
By Patricia J. Malin
‘Never be satisfied with mediocrity’ Continued from Page 4 A.: Gratification in patient care is gained from intrapersonal relationships. People learn to share mutual respect, transparency and a strong propensity of hope. From all walks of life, people treat others with equality regardless of diversity. Learning from each other becomes the foundation of essential wisdom, which then shapes our character in life. Q.: What are the greatest changes in ophthalmology you have witnessed during your career? What are the newest developments in ophthalmology? A.: Reflecting on significant changes in eye care, as in any field of endeavor, resonates a message to never be satisfied with mediocrity. Strive always for the high road and never stand still. The daunting task for all is to discover an improvement or cure from the elements leading to age-related macular degeneration, cataract formation, the elimination of factors that create glaucoma, and more importantly, blindness from any means by virtue of brilliance in the field of biomedical engineering advanced research. By defying convention, change will occur and opportunities and hope will flourish. Q.: How important is it to mentor young doctors in laser eye surgery? What are your goals with this endeavor? A.: My personal goal is to commit to being a good role model worthy of others to follow. For a change in any relationship to occur, change must begin first with me. Always strive to be honest, caring, embrace hope and, above all, love thy neighbor. Q.: What was your reaction when your daughter, Joanne, decided to follow in your footsteps? A.: My wife, Phyllis, and I were blessed with two special daughters. Family is important to us. Our daughter, Joanne, is very talented and scientifically centered. Practice of a good sense of humor is her medicine for all. A dedicated mother of two, she practices optometry and does it well. A second daughter, Terese Lyn, is
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equally as talented. A very articulate and grammatically correct person, she has chosen law as her life’s calling. She is passionate in her work and strives for fairness and equality for those she serves. My wife and I are very proud of our daughters and their respective accomplishments as caring individuals. Our vision for the future is to share in the successes and happiness of our grandchildren, as well as to demonstrate continued love and respect for our family and its mutual family values. Q.: How do you keep up with the latest research and developments in healthcare? A.: I attend several principal medical programs each year given at various locations throughout the country. This provides me with an opportunity to speak with leaders in the ever-evolving field of ophthalmology. Also my wife and I sponsor student scholarships at various educational institutions such as Clarkson University, Utica College, Strong Memorial in Rochester, and read their interesting publications. Q.: What challenges do you foresee in the future regarding healthcare in general and your field in particular? A.: The challenges forthcoming will be to achieve affordable health care for all people. We want to give our heartfelt care and respect to our veterans by giving back to those who gave to us; seek to provide equal opportunities to all challenged children; provide support, care and dignity to all seniors who have given so much of their lives to so many of us, and rightfully deserve unconditional love enabling many to enjoy the bountiful fruits of their labor. And lastly, love thy God for his sacrifices on behalf of our salvation. Q.: What suggestions do you have to improve your specialty in the future? Is it possible for a doctor at the local level to make changes in healthcare treatment or is it best left to fulltime researchers working at universities or private labs? A.: Work diligently to be transparent with all people, be trustworthy, do not harm and strive to earn the respect from others; research at university levels and receive funding to pursue challenging objectives with definitive biomedical engineering solutions, all safe, sound and inspirational with hope. Q.: What do you do to relax from a stressful job? A.: Never stand still. Like many people, most of my time is spent learning from others. These people make a difference in my life and are responsible for the person I have become.
Study: Stressed teens may face higher diabetes risk as adults
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eens who have trouble coping with stress may be at increased risk for Type 2 diabetes as adults, new research suggests. For the study, researchers examined data from more than 1.5 million 18-year-old men who were conscripted into the Swedish military between 1969 and 1997. The participants all underwent standard testing for stress resilience, and none of them had diabetes at the age of 18. But during the follow-up period, from 1987 to 2012, more than 34,000 of the men were diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes, according to physician Casey Crump, from the department
of medicine at Stanford University in California, and colleagues. Compared to men with the highest resistance to stress when they were 18, those with the lowest stress resistance were 51 percent more likely to have been diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes later, the investigators found. However, the study only found an association, and was not designed to prove a cause-and-effect relationship between stress resilience and diabetes risk. The study was published online recently in the journal Diabetologia.
Fewer childhood cancer survivors dying from 'late' effects
F
ewer childhood cancer survivors are dying years later from lingering effects of the treatment that conquered their cancer, a new study finds. Experts called the report, published in a recent issue of the New England Journal of Medicine, "very good news." "The findings substantiate what experts in the field have hoped would be true," said lead researcher, physician Gregory Armstrong, of St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, in Memphis, Tenn. Survival rates from many childhood cancers are high, but survivors still face what doctors call "late effects" — health problems that develop months to years after the cancer treatment has ended. Among U.S. children who sur-
vived cancer back in the 1970s and '80s, 18 percent died within the next 25 years, Armstrong said. But children treated for cancer in the 1990s had better long-term survival rates. Over the next 15 years, 2 percent died of a treatment-related cause, compared to 3.5 percent of those treated in the early 1970s. The overall death rate dropped over time, too: Of children treated for cancer in the early 1970s, 12 percent died over the next 15 years. That fell to 6 percent among children treated in the 1990s. So what changed? Armstrong said there were important shifts in the way doctors manage common childhood cancers such as acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), Hodgkin lymphoma and Wilms tumor, which affects the kidneys.
First-time moms getting older in U.S.
T
he age at which U.S. women have their first baby is going up, according to a new report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. From 2000 to 2014, the average age of a mother's first birth rose from 24.9 to 26.3, data from the CDC report found. In the report, published Jan. 14, the researchers attributed the shift to two main factors: a decrease in the percentage of women having their first birth before age 20, and an increase in the percentage having their first birth over age 30. The percentage of women having their first child under age 20 fell to
IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • February 2016
13.4 percent in 2014, down from 23.1 percent in 2000, according to the report. The percentage of women having their first child between ages 30 and 34 rose to 21 percent in 2014, up from 16.5 percent in 2000, according to the report. And 9.1 percent of women having their first child in 2014 were 35 or older, up from 7.4 percent in 2000. This is a trend that will likely continue as more women pursue professional goals, said Brooke Hodes-Wertz, an assistant professor of obstetrics and gynecology at New York University Langone Medical Center.
Between You and Me
By Barbara Pierce
Is Camille Cosby right? Wife of alleged rapist refrains from revealing intimate details
I
’m mad. Really mad as I see on my screen a most poised and elegant woman, standing next to her man. Standing next to her husband for the world to see. It makes me really angry when I hear that Camille Cosby has been ordered by the court to testify against her scum of a husband, a husband who allegedly sexually abused a multitude of women. In the case, seven women contend that Bill Cosby sexually assaulted or abused them. American’s No. 1 dad, the model family man in his long-running hit television series “The Cosby Pierce Show,” allegedly drugged, then sexually abused woman after woman. The lawsuit can be traced back to the accusations of Andrea Constand. In 2005, the basketball player did what no one else had done before. She went public to say that Cosby had drugged and raped her, the first criminal accusations against the comedian despite years of hushed rumors. Constand described taking an “herbal pill” at the comedian’s home that made her feel “paralyzed” before Cosby guided her to his couch, where he allegedly sexually assaulted her. She had been invited to visit under the pretense of discussing her career. Her lawsuit not only opened the door for a lot of other women, but also revealed the extensive machinery at Cosby’s disposal that kept the door shut for so long. Now Camille, married to Bill for more than 50 years, must give evidence to help decide whether her husband should be charged with ag-
gravated indecent assault. If charged, he could be sentenced to five to 10 years in prison. The judge who made the ruling rejected arguments by Camille that she shouldn’t have to testify against her spouse and be subjected to questions about his “sexual proclivities.” She argued that she lacked any firsthand knowledge of the events at Camille Cosby issue. The judge ruled against her as he felt it was at least plausible that she is in possession of information relevant to the case. Why is this so upsetting to me, and probably to many other women? Camille argues that her subpoena violates the protection of marital communications. And she says that she would feel shame and embarrassment to answer questions about her husband’s sex life. I suppose that is the crux of it; she would Bill Cosby feel shame and embarrassment. Guess I identify with her. If she can be forced to talk about her sexual life with her husband, then any of us can be forced to share this information. And that bothers me.
sexual arrangements evolve between the two of us are just that — between the two of us. If not, we could never trust ourselves to be vulnerable in the future. It’s unthinkable. It is so wrong that anyone should be witness to our activities in the bedroom, the most private of activities. Not that I’m into anything kinky or weird, I just don’t want to share the private times I have with my partner. Guess it comes down to boundaries. There are certain boundaries that are necessary. All healthy relationships have boundaries. If boundaries do not exist, there can be no trust. The shame and embarrassment of talking about sexual activities is only one thing that kept Cosby’s criminal activity under cover. “No one would have believed me if I spoke out,” said victim Therese Serignese online. She says Cosby drugged and raped her when she was 17. “I thought people would blame me. You just try to forget about it,” she said. “Cosby won my trust as a 17-year-old aspiring actress, brainwashed me into viewing him as a father figure, and then assaulted me multiple times,” said victim Barbara Bowman online. “As a teenager, I tried to rationalize it: Bill Cosby was going to make me a star and this was
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Privacy compromised
I certainly don’t want to talk about my partner’s and my sexual life. Especially if I knew it would be repeated by the media all over the world. We like to believe whatever
D
The findings are included in Cancer Statistics, 2016, the American Cancer Society's latest annual report on cancer incidence, mortality and survival. The report was published online Jan. 7 in CA: A Cancer Journal for Clinicians. The data was collected from the U.S. National Cancer Institute's Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results (SEER) program and other sources. Over the past decade, the rate of cancer deaths has dropped by 1.8 percent a year in men and 1.4 percent in women, according to the report. The decline in the past 20 years has been driven by the continuous drop in deaths for four major cancer types: breast, colon, lung and prostate, the report noted.
• Barbara Pierce is a retired licensed clinical social worker with many years’ experience in helping people. If you would like to purchase a copy of her book “If I’m so Fantastic, Why am I Still Single?” or if you have any concerns you would like her to address, contact her at BarbaraPierce06@yahoo.com.
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Study: Cancer death rates down 23 percent since 1991 eaths from cancer continue to decline in the United States, according to a new report from the American Cancer Society. Since peaking in 1991, cancer death rates have dropped by 23 percent, the ACS said in the report released in January. "Cancer death rates are continuing to decline by about 1.5 percent per year," said study author Rebecca Siegel, strategic director for surveillance information services for the American Cancer Society. The 23 percent drop in death rates occurred from 1991 through 2012, she said, and that translates to more than 1.7 million cancer deaths averted. "We are doing very well, I would say, is the bottom line," she said.
part of the deal.” “Why wasn’t I believed?” Bowman said. “Why was I, a victim of sexual assault, further wronged by victim blaming when I came forward?” “Only after a man called Bill Cosby a rapist recently did the public outcry begin in earnest,” Bowman states. And that’s another reason this really upsets me. Things are changing, slowly changing. I was raped as a young woman. And I was kidnapped and raped as a college student. I just dropped both incidents. I mentioned it to a close friend and then moved on. In those days, women kept their mouths shut and carried on. But in today’s world, I’d like to think that those men would recognize the wrong they had done. I’ve mostly forgotten about it, but women should not be victims in this way. My heart goes out to Camille; she’s trying to protect us all.
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WOMEN’S HEALTH ASSOCIATES IS NOW
ACCEPTING
NEW PATIENTS
Mehri L. Del Pino, M.D.
8080 TURIN ROAD, ROME
Irresistible news about oysters Is there any truth to their libido-boosting powers?
O
h, oysters. Nothing says “aphrodisiac” more than this pearl of the sea. With its luxurious texture and arousing reputation, no wonder consumption soars during Cupid’s favorite month. But is there any truth to its libido-boosting powers? According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration: no; there is no such thing as an aphrodisiac. But current research tells a different story. According to a team of American and Italian scientists, oysters contain rare amino acids that may temporarily increase the production of hormones (testosterone in men; progesterone in women) that increase libido. While more research is clearly needed — the studies were done on rats, after all — the findings do show rousing promise. Provocative properties aside, there are oceans of other reasons why we should be consuming this luscious mollusk. To begin, oysters are an excellent source of lean protein that’s low in both calories and fat. Six medium oysters, for example, shell out between 6 to 8 grams of this essential nutrient at only 60 calories and
2 grams of fat. (Slurp a dozen and you’ve knocked off about a fourth of your daily protein needs.) We need protein because it has its hands in every critical function of the body, from tissue repair to energy production to immune function. Are you sitting down? Six little oysters deliver over 400 percent of our recommended daily allowance for zinc. Zinc, best known for its immune-boosting properties, also helps expedite wound healing and quell out-of-control inflammation. But it doesn’t end there. This little mineral may also play a role in testosterone production, further fanning the oyster’s amorous flame. Oysters are surprisingly rich in other nutrients, too — from bone-building vitamin D to energy-boosting iron and vitamin B12 to cell-protecting selenium. What’s more, oysters boast a decent amount of heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids. Although Casanova, the Italian womanizer, was purported to eat 50 oysters a day, he clearly was not under the care of a good nutritionist! That many oysters could pose a potential health risk — if not for the
Nancy Peek, N.P.
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EXCEPTIONAL WOMEN'S MEDICINE… IN YOUR CIRCLE OF care!
Proudly offering to continue exceptional care to the patients of Dr. Temple in Rome, Camden and the surrounding communities.
The skinny on healthy eating
Hazem Qalla, M.D.
WOMEN’S HEALTH
We are excited to announce the opening of our second office location at
SmartBites
Krislyn L. Flint, M.D.
ONEIDAHEALTHCARE.ORG | 336-4721 abundant zinc than for the excess cholesterol.
Helpful Tips
When buying fresh, look for oysters no more than five or six days out of the water (seafood markets must display the date when oysters are harvested). Shells should be closed (oysters with open shells are often dead) and the oysters should not smell fishy or rotten. Buy them either the day or the day before you plan to eat. To store oysters in the fridge, put them on a tray or plate with the round cup side of the oyster down and then cover them with a damp towel or cloth. Do not store oysters in a plastic bag, sealable container or tucked in ice.
Healthy Oyster Stew
Adapted from Cooking Light
1 bacon slice, finely chopped 3/4 cup chopped onion 1/2 cup finely diced celery 1/2 cup finely chopped green onions 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour 1/3 cup dry white wine 2 cups 1% low-fat milk 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme 3/4 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper 1/8 teaspoon Tabasco sauce (optional) 1 (16-ounce) container standard oysters, undrained 1 teaspoon dried parsley 2 teaspoons (or more) fresh lemon juice Cook bacon in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat until crisp. Remove bacon from pan, reserving one teaspoon drippings in
pan; set bacon aside. Add onion, celery, and green onions to drippings in pan; cook over medium heat seven minutes or until celery is tender, stirring frequently. Stir in flour; cook one minute, stirring constantly. Stir in wine, scraping pan to loosen browned bits. Stir in bacon, milk, thyme, salt, pepper and Tabasco sauce (if using); bring to a simmer. Cook two minutes or until slightly thick, stirring constantly with a whisk. Stir in oysters; cook four minutes or until edges of oysters curl (do not boil). Stir in parsley and lemon juice. Anne Palumbo is a lifestyle columnist, 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.
E-cigs not the answer for those trying to quit
S
mokers who have resolved to quit are cautioned to avoid using e-cigarettes to wean themselves off of tobacco products, according to research issued by Excellus BlueCross BlueShield. Electronic cigarettes are battery-operated products that turn their contents into a vapor that is inhaled. They are not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration and can contain liquid nicotine, flavoring and potentially harmful chemicals. “The risks associated with inhaling these vapors are largely unknown,” said physician Matthew Bartels, medical director of health Page 16
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care improvement at Excellus BCBS. “Because e-cigarettes aren’t held to the FDA's rigorous review standards, there’s no way to verify the safety of these devices." If you’re planning to quit smoking, Bartels recommends only FDA-approved smoking cessation methods: • Patches, gum and lozenges • Prescription medications, including nicotine inhalers prescribed by a health care provider • Nasal sprays Smokers can receive free resources and assistance to help quit by calling the New York State Smokers’
Quitline at 1-866-NY-QUITS (1-866697-8487). In New York state, high school students and young adults aged 18 to 24 are almost twice as likely to use e-cigarettes than adults aged 25 and older, according to an Excellus BCBS infographic, “Smoldering Facts on E-Cigarettes.” According to the infographic, 8.7 percent of eighth graders, 16.2 percent of 10th graders and 17.1 percent of 12th graders nationally admitted using e-cigarettes in the past month. “Such flavors as bubble gum, cotton candy, and tutti-frutti could appeal to youths," said Bartels. "The
IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • February 2016
pleasing flavors, coupled with the stimulating effect of liquid nicotine, make for a dangerous combination that could potentially lead to nicotine addiction.” “This should be enough to make us question the impact e-cigarettes can have on the health of our children and others who may believe that e-cigarettes are a safe alternative to using tobacco products,” he added. • To view the infographic: http://tinyurl.com/juy9kvn • Mobile-friendly infographic: http://brand.excellusbcbs.com/infographics/
H ealth News Family medicine physician joins MVHS Andrea Finocchiaro, DO, a specialist in family medicine, has joined the MVHS Medical Group’s New Hartford medical office — Crossroads Plaza. She has privileges at Faxton St. Luke’s Healthcare in Utica. Finocchiaro received her Doctor of Osteopathic medicine from Finocchiaro Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine in Erie, Pa., and her Bachelor of Arts in biology with honors from Utica College. She completed her residency in family medicine at St. Joseph’s Hospital Health Center in Syracuse. Finocchiaro joins the practice of D. Christopher Clark, Marissa Kalil and Irena Kokot.
Family medicine physician joins MVHS The Mohawk Valley Health System Medical Group has welcomed Shazia Chaudhry to the North Utica Medical Office — Trenton Road. She has privileges at Faxton St. Luke’s Healthcare and St. Elizabeth Medical Center. Chaudhry received her Doctor of Medicine from Spartan Health Sciences University in St. Lucia, West Chaudhry Indies, after also attending Ross University School of Medicine in Dominica, West Indies. She received her Bachelor of Science degree in biology from Brooklyn College, City University of New York in Brooklyn. Chaudhry completed her residency in family practice at the West Jersey-Memorial Family Practice Residency in Voorhees, N.J. Chaudhry joins the practice of Oleg Dulkin and Tatyana Misyulya.
Urologist joins MVHS medical staff Daniel Welchons has joined the Associated Medical Professionals Urology practice in New Hartford and has admitting privileges at Faxton St. Luke’s Healthcare and St. Elizabeth Medical Center in Utica. Welchons earned his medical degree from Welchons the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine in Pittsburgh, Pa. He completed his residency in urology and intern-
ship in general surgery at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston, a teaching hospital of Harvard Medical School. He is a member of the American Urological Association and the American Medical Association.
MVHS offers household sharps disposal program The Mohawk Valley Health System offers the household sharps disposal program for community members to properly dispose of their medical waste. Items such as syringes and lancets may be dropped off any day of the week from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Faxton St. Luke’s Healthcare Energy Center located on the St. Luke’s Campus, 1656 Champlin Ave., New Hartford, or at the Center for Rehabilitation and Continuing Care Services, also on the St. Luke’s Campus. Items dropped off at CRCCS may be given to the receptionist. In addition, sharp instruments may also be brought to the St. Elizabeth Medical Center Hospital Services Department, located in the SEMC basement, Utica, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays, excluding holidays. Only items from private residences in clearly marked “sharps” puncture-proof containers will be accepted. For more information, call the FSLH Energy Center at 315-624-6186 or SEMC Hospital Services at 315798-8249.
Fidelis Care recognizes MVHS Medical Group Fidelis Care recently recognized the St. Elizabeth Medical Center primary care offices of the Mohawk Valley Health System with an incentive payment for meeting or exceeding standards for quality care in 2014 as part of Fidelis Care’s quality care management incentive program. The St. Elizabeth primary care offices are part of the MVHS Medical Group and include the Sister Rose Vincent Family Medicine Center. Fidelis Care developed the QCMI program as a way to reward practices that provide high quality and accessible care to Fidelis Care members. The QCMI program is based upon recognized state and national guidelines from the quality assurance reporting requirements from the State Department of Health and the National Committee on Quality Assurance. “Our goal is to help our patients be as successful as possible in managing their care,” said Karen Casab, assistant director of clinical operations for MVHS. “This incentive payment recognizes the exceptional work of our team and their efforts to ensure quality outcomes for those who entrust us with their care.”
VHS employees receive certification Three Mohawk Valley Health System employees — Sarah Deming,
Earlena Rood and Joseph Scarafile — recently received certification in infection prevention from the Certification Board of Infection Control and Epidemiology. Certification represents the commitment of an infection preventionist and an institution to the continued improvement of infection prevention and control functions as well as their contribution to healthcare and patient safety. • Deming began working at St. Elizabeth Medical Center in Utica in September 2001. She worked in the intensive care unit and the special care unit as a ward clerk and monitor tech until her graduation from Mohawk Valley Community College in 2010. Deming Following her graduation, she worked in the ICU as a registered nurse. She has been working in infection prevention since April 2012. • Rood graduated from St. Elizabeth College of Nursing and received her Bachelor of Science degree in nursing from the University of Phoenix. She began working in infection prevention in October 2012. She has 12 years of oncology experience and has held oncoloRood gy certification for eight years. She served on the nurse practice council for five years and nurse quality for two. She is a certified internal auditor and a member of the MVHS emergency response team. • Scarafile received his Bachelor of Science degree in nursing from Utica College. He began working at Faxton St. Luke’s Healthcare in Utica in January 2006 in the inpatient rehabilitation unit and became a charge nurse in endoscopy in 2009. FSLH is certified to the ISO 9001:2008 quality management system standard. Employees throughout the organization are ISO certified to make sure it maintains that certification. Scarafile became a certified Scarafile ISO in 2015 and has been working in infection prevention since November 2012.
Genesee Urgent Care relocating The Mohawk Valley Health System is consolidating all urgent care services to Faxton Urgent Care, 1676
February 2016 •
Sunset Ave., Utica. Genesee Urgent Care, 1904 Genesee St., Utica, recently relocated and combined with Faxton Urgent Care. The consolidation will help MVHS to make better use of resources, avoid duplication of services and reduce costs in the system. “Faxton Urgent Care has recently been expanded and renovated in preparation for the change,” said Edward Reynolds, RN, urgent care operations manager. “The Faxton and Genesee urgent care centers each have nearly 17,000 patient visits annually and our providers and staff are committed to continuing to meet the community’s healthcare needs.” Information about medical records will be available through Faxton Urgent Care. It is open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. seven days a week and can be reached at 315-624-5226. Urgent care centers should be used for individuals suffering from minor medical problems such as seasonal allergies, coughs, colds, flu, pink eye, sprains, minor burns and lacerations, urinary tract infections, minor back pain, rashes and nausea. Patients with multiple medical problems or severe chronic conditions should be seen at an emergency department.
MVHS bariatric program reaccredited The bariatric surgery program at Faxton St. Luke’s Healthcare, an affiliate of the Mohawk Valley Health System, has been reaccredited as a comprehensive center under the metabolic and bariatric surgery accreditation and quality improvement program, a joint program of the American College of Surgeons and the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery. The MBSAQIP standards ensure that bariatric surgery patients receive a multidisciplinary program, not just a surgical procedure, which improves patient outcomes and long-term success. The accredited program offers preoperative and postoperative care designed specifically for their severely obese patients. Angela Soja, bariatric clinical coordinator for MVHS, said, “This accreditation acknowledges our team’s hard work and commitment to providing quality improvement for metabolic and bariatric surgery patients from the physician experience through surgery and recovery.”
Breast Care Center receives donation The Mohawk Valley Health System’s Breast Care Center was recently presented with a $1,470 donation from the Breast Cancer Beatdown Benefit, organized by the staff at Studio55 and Function Better Physical Therapy. The benefit was held at the Yorkville Studio55, where people participated in several classes, T-shirts were sold and a basket raffle was held. The money raised will assist patients that require financial
Continued on Page 18
IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper
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H ealth News Continued from Page 17 assistance related to their breast cancer diagnosis. Donations made to the Breast Care Center are raised through the Faxton St. Luke’s Healthcare Foundation. For more information, call the foundation at 315-624-5600 or visit www.faxtonstlukes.com/foundation.
MVHS employee receives wound care certification Michelle Perkins, a physical therapist for the Mohawk Valley Health System, recently received her certification for wound care, which involves working to heal chronic or traumatic open wounds that show no signs of healing. These wounds may include diabetic or neuropathic foot ulcers, pressure ulcers, venous stasis ulcers and vascular ulcers. Perkins earned her bachelor’s degree from Clarkson University in Potsdam, where she also earned her clinical doctorate of physical therapy. She began workPerkins ing at MVHS in 2012. She is a member of the national professional organization American Physical Therapy Association, New York chapter, and a member of the APTA Clinical Electrophysiology and Wound Management section.
St. Elizabeth Health Support names director Ryan C. Thompson has been named executive director of St. Elizabeth Health Support Services. In this position, Thompson is responsible for overseeing the durable medical equipment-respiratory business that is a joint venture between the Mohawk Valley Health System and Franciscan Companies in Syracuse. Thompson has been an employee at Franciscan Companies since February 2011, first serving as an account executive, then project manager and analyst. Most recently, Thompson Thompson was the executive director of business development. Thompson received his bachelor’s degree in business administration from Le Moyne College and his master’s degree in business administration from Columbia College of Missouri-Hancock Field, both located in Syracuse. Thompson’s office is located at St. Elizabeth Health Support Services, 3899 Oneida St., New Hartford.
Board member retires from HealthNet Herkimer County AdministraPage 18
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tor James W. Wallace, Jr. recently announced his retirement from his board of director’s seat with Herkimer County HealthNet after 25 years of service. Wallace’s contributions started before Herkimer County HealthNet formed a 501(c)3 nonprofit corporation in 1990. A small group of health professionals formed a coalition to address various aspects of health for people in Herkimer County in the late 1980’s after the closing of two hospitals, Herkimer Memorial Hospital and Mohawk Valley General Hospital. Today, Herkimer County HealthNet has a full-time staff, a board of directors, and a number of Wallace partners and volunteers who work and assist with the grants and programs that Herkimer County HealthNet administers. “Over the course of 25 years, I’m proud of Herkimer County HealthNet’s programs and the accomplishments that support its mission,” Wallace said. Steven Billings, personnel officer for Herkimer County, will replace Wallace’s seat on Herkimer County HealthNet’s board of directors. Herkimer County HealthNet is a 501(c)3 nonprofit corporation. Its mission is to improve the health and well being of individuals who live, work, play, and learn in Herkimer County.
St. Johnsville selects employee of quarter Carol Jones, housekeeper at St. Johnsville Rehabilitation & Nursing Center, has been elected employee of the quarter for January through March. “Carol always goes above and beyond to do her job. She is always willing to help others,” said Wayne Smith, director of maintenance. “She never refuses to work on days or nights that she has off and she never has called to say she is taking the day off,” said Kevin Pohleven, environmental service director.
Insight House receives grant Insight House Chemical Dependency Services, Inc. has received a grant in the amount of $1,000 from the Dave & Christine Zumpano Family Fund, a donor-advised fund of The Community Foundation of Herkimer & Oneida Counties, Inc. This funding will be used for Insight House’s drug and alcohol prevention efforts at area schools, increasing awareness and decision-making ability with regards to substance experimentation and use. Since 1971, Insight House has provided professional and confidential drug and alcohol treatment services to individuals and their
Big Brothers Big Sisters program shelved
families.
Earns designation of certified nurse educator The Mohawk Valley Community College Nursing program recently announced that assistant professor Kathleen Capone has earned the designation as certified nurse educator. She recently met eligibility criteria and successfully completed a certification examination developed and administered by the National League for Nursing. Capone has been a nurse since 1972. She entered nursing education at MVCC in 2010 as a nursing instructor and served as first-year nursing program coordinator from 2013-2015. She obtained her master’s degree in nursing education from Capone Le Moyne College in Syracuse and is pursuing a doctoral degree in curriculum development and design.
Health
Over 30 years ago, Upstate Cerebral Palsy began operating Big Brothers Big Sisters of Oneida County when the program required the agency’s support and oversight. It has since grown to include children from Herkimer and Madison counties and has touched the lives of hundreds of children, families and adult mentors. Unfortunately, as times and society have changed, the agency has found it more challenging to obtain adult volunteers to mentor the youth of the community. Many volunteers found the time commitment was too much for their schedules to allow and had to end their mentorships. As the number of matches has greatly decreased, the agency has made the decision to discontinue Big Brothers Big Sisters of Oneida, Herkimer and Madison Counties and disaffiliate from Big Brothers Big Sisters of America. Contact Carleen Stewart at 315-738-0794 or carleen.stewart@ upstatecp.org for additional information.
in good
MV’S HEALTHCARE NEWSPAPER
EMPLOYMENT Advertise your health-related services or products and reach your potential customers throughout the Mohawk Valley for as little as $90 a month. Call 749-7070 for more info.
Sales Representative Needed Local News Inc. is looking for a sales professional to sell advertising for its highly popular healthcare monthly newspaper — In Good Health. The person will be in charge of selling print advertising to new clients in the region and developing new alliances in the community. In Good Health is the only healthcare newspaper in the region and has been in publication for more than 10 years. Excellent opportunity for someone who is energetic, motivated, articulate and organized. Compensation includes a base salary and commission.
IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • February 2016
PLEASE EMAIL RESUME TO LOU@CNYMAIL.COM
Business Spotlight
Eye Q of CNY Smart Choice Specialists have vision to launch new enterprise By Sharon McNerney
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The timing was perfect for opening our business,” said Diane Engel, owner of Eye Q of CNY in New Hartford. The new store, which recently opened on Commercial Drive, provides optical care to local customers. The opening comes on the heels of three similar businesses closing in New Hartford. The optical department in JCPenney closed last January, and Lens Crafters vacated its Sangertown Square location shortly after. Then Sears closed last July on short notice, cancelling the lease held by the optical company, Luxottica. Engel had worked as a certified licensed optician at Sears for 15 of her 20 years of practice. The recent closure forced her to make some hard decisions about her future, she said. So she decided to start her own business utilizing her degree in business public management from SUNY Polytechnic Institute in Marcy. She then teamed up with her former colleague, Dr. Joseph Carrock, at the new business. Now they provide service for their former customers, referencing the database of 4,000 clients they had acquired over their years working together at Sears. She acknowledged that an unusual set of circumstances enabled her to set up business in a record 90
The new Eye Q of CNY is located at 4660 Commercial Drive, New Hartford. days. First, she needed to find a suitable location. Pavia realtors had two open locations from which to choose. Ron Sperry of Sperry Construction was immediately available to start work remodeling the store to include a new examination room and lab.
Equipped and ready
The most critical need was optical equipment, which usually takes months to order and receive, Engel
CALENDAR of
HEALTH EVENTS
Got a health-related activity or event that you would like publicized? Call Lou Sorendo at 315-749-7070 or email lou@cnymail.com. Continued from Page 2
Feb. 8
diagnosis. Light refreshments will be served. For more information or to RSVP, call 315-624-5241.
Support forum for Feb. 9 patients, cancer survivors In search of Lifelong The Mohawk Valley Health Wellness System’s Cancer Center’s monthly support forum for patients and cancer survivors will be held at 6 p.m. Feb. 8. The cancer support forum meets at 6 p.m. on the second Monday of every month in the Cancer Center’s fireplace lounge on the main floor of Faxton Campus, 1676 Sunset Ave., Utica. The forum, led by the Cancer Center’s social worker, offers support to anyone who has received a cancer
Lifelong Wellness, Inc. is a nonprofit organization dedicated to healthy living and awareness of holistic and alternative forms of healing. It meets at 6 p.m. on the second Tuesday of the month at 10 Higby Road, Utica. The Chowder House in New York Mills caters dinners. For more information, visit www. llwcny.com.
said. However, a local optometrist was retiring and another optician was consolidating his practice, each with state-of-the-art equipment for immediate sale. Even though the optical businesses located in Sangertown Square had closed, that did not deter her from opening her own place. She learned that the opticians closed because the rent at the mall had made it difficult to make a profit. Up until that time, Luxottica and Sears had
Feb. 10
‘Ashes to Go’ to be offered LutheranCare Chaplain Janet Griffiths will offer “Ashes to Go” — the imposition of ashes to individuals while in their vehicles — from 7-8:15 a.m. on Ash Wednesday, Feb. 10, at the gazebo area on the LutheranCare campus, Route 12B, Clinton. Those wishing to receive ashes in a more traditional manner are invited to attend Ash Wednesday services in LutheranCare’s Chapel and Community Room at 10 a.m. and 2:15 p.m., respectively. LutheranCare is a faith-based health care organization committed to serving the community by providing programs and services to those in need of professional and compassionate care. For further information, contact Karen Ostinett, 315-235-7104 or kostinett@lutherancare.org.
Feb. 15
YMCA offers childcare during break The YMCA of the Greater Tri-Valley will be holding full-day activities for children aged 5-12 years old during February break. The program will be offered
February 2016 •
benefited from their cost sharing. But Sears was having the same problem experienced by other large box stores — lots of expensive floor space that is deemed unnecessary in the age of online merchants utilizing warehouses. She remained optimistic that her business would succeed in view of three business closings. “I knew customers would be looking for new providers,” Engle said. “We want to provide private service at chain-store prices,” she said. “My focus is to become an affordable family eye care center.” She was fortunate to get a registered optometrist to join her. Carrock conducts all the eye examinations at Eye Q. He is a native of Utica, a graduate of New England School of Optometry and in practice for 20 years. He is available on a part-time basis, potentially expanding his hours as needed. Another optometrist may join ranks as business grows, Engel added. Eye Q CNY is located at 4660 Commercial Drive, New Hartford, in the plaza housing Men’s Warehouse, opposite K-Mart. For more information, call 315797-2020, visit www.eyeqcny.com or its Facebook page at www.facebook. com/eyeqofcny.
daily Feb. 15-19 at the Rome Family Y, the Oneida Family Y and the New Hartford School Age Child Care Center. The program features daily themes and activities that will promote healthy eating and physical activity. The Vacation Fun Club program runs from 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Rome Family and Oneida Family Y and from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the New Hartford School Age Child Care Center. The YMCA of the Greater Tri-Valley offers scholarship assistance to those who are unable to afford programs and services through the donations to its Changing Lives Campaign. For payment, registration or scholarship information, call the Rome Family Y at 315-336-3500, Oneida Family YMCA at 315-3637788, the New Hartford School Age Child Care Center at 315-797-4787 or visit www.ymcatrivalley.org.
Mohawk Valley In Good Health: Your source for health news!
IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper
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Rock Steady Presbyterian Home brings boxing demonstration to New Hartford to help Parkinson’s disease patients By Sharon McNerney
B
oxing for Parkinson’s disease? It sounds like an improbable idea, but it is fun and possible this activity can help individuals lessen the effects of Parkinson’s disease. The Presbyterian Home and Services of New Hartford provides an accredited residence specializing in personalized care of those affected by Parkinson’s disease. The Presbyterian Homes Foundation, its fundraising arm, recently held a demonstration of a unique program known as Rock Steady Boxing NY/LA with Dr. Roberta Marongiu and Alex Montaldo. Marongiu is a neurologist and researcher at Weill Cornell Medical College in New York City who wants to find ways to improve the quality of life for patients. Her husband is a stage and film actor and head coach at Rock Steady NY/LA. They heard about Rock Steady and brought the program to New York and Los Angeles in 2014. The Presbyterian Home Foundation hopes to obtain a grant so it can offer a program similar to Rock Steady Boxing for area residents on a regular basis. More than 100 people attended the event. “It would be open to all individuals diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease,” said Lenora D’Apice, executive director of advancement for Presbyterian Homes Foundation. “This is one of the many amazing components of the program. It works for everyone regardless of physical limitations. “The program can be modified to meet the needs of the individual, and for Parkinson’s disease, individualized treatment is not only necessary but crucial for positive outcomes.” Unlike conventional boxing, this is a non-contact activity that researchers believe can improve an individual’s balance, strength, flexibility and coordination. Marongiu discussed how the lack of neurotransmitter chemicals in the brain causes the debilitating effects of Parkinson’s disease and what can be done to compensate for the loss. The scientific community has studies supporting the mental benefits of physical activity. Parkinson’s disease is classified as complex since its causes, symptoms, treatment and progression vary from person to person. Besides surgery and medications, a healthy diet, physical therapy, occupational Page 20
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Rock Steady Boxing trainer Kay Johns, left, works with Pete Stewart recently at its facility in Indianapolis, Ind. therapy and exercise are modifiers that are crucial for coping with the disease. There is no cure for Parkinson’s, but Marongiu is engaged in genetic research. Outside the laboratory, she places emphasis on exercise and how it encourages what is called neuroplasticity. “The more you exercise, the more you slow down the disease,” she said. Exercises such as yoga, tai chi, dancing, and even meditation create nerve cells and generate alternate pathways in the brain, helping it find new ways to function. Intense exercise is believed to be the most beneficial because a person is pushing the limitations of mind and body. It helps with motor (handwriting, posture, walking) and non-motor problems (depression, thinking, memory), due to release of endorphins. Boxing covers most of the areas of concern in Parkinson’s disease. Its drills can be modified and tailored to the patient. It uses voice (laughing, screaming, counting), stretching, breathing, eye-hand coordination, mental concentration, footwork for balance, and stress relief (hitting the punching bag). After several months of boxing, many people have begun
to walk better, don’t fall as much, and learn how not to get hurt from falls. They seem to have better flexibility, strength and speed. By the time a person starts showing classic symptoms of Parkinson’s disease, it has been stealthily causing damage over the years. Subtle changes such as sleep problems and reduced sense of smell might occur. There really is no definitive test for the disease and that limitation makes it more difficult to have an earlier diagnosis. Having a body that is fit and strong delays many of these problems as Parkinson’s disease progresses.
Ironic twist
Who would have thought to employ boxing as therapy when everyone wrongly assumed Mohammed Ali was stricken with Parkinson’s disease directly as a result of concussions suffered during his fighting career? It all began when Scott C. Newman, a Marion County (Indianapolis, Ind.) prosecutor was diagnosed with an early onset of Parkinson’s in his 40s. Although men are 1 1/2 times more likely than women to develop the disease, only 4 percent of either gender is diagnosed before age 50,
Christine Timberlake, an instructor with Rock Steady Boxing, trains Jon Van Scyoc in Indianapolis, Ind. recently.
IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • February 2016
according to the Parkinson’s Disease Foundation. Being afflicted so early in life motivated Newman to take a proactive approach. Exercise improved his everyday functioning and when he tried intense boxing sessions, he claimed he improved dramatically. He wanted to share his discovery with others who suffer the debilitating effects of the disease — close to 1 million people in this country alone. According to the website www. rocksteadyboxing.org, he began the program in 2006 solely on public donations. After a question-and-answer period, Montaldo organized a demonstration of boxing techniques with volunteers from the audience at Presbyterian Home. Some of the participants actually put on boxing gloves and entered the ring. There are four different levels of challenge, according to ability. Montaldo instinctively adjusted his approach according to the responses of each individual, and then challenged that individual to go beyond his limitations. He said 90 percent of those with Parkinson’s disease can benefit from this form of exercise. Even a man in a wheelchair participated, becoming more engaged as the contact increased. Cheered on by the audience, he added vocalization along with his movements. No women volunteered. Montaldo said they are skeptical at first, but they gradually become interested. He enjoys working with them as “they are more inclined to listen,” he said. Classes could run as often as three times a week, 1 to 1-1/2 hours each. Although those who suffer other movement disorders might benefit from this program, Montaldo said it is restricted to those diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. It has only been tested with this group and more data would be needed to explore its benefits in patients with other conditions, he added. Marongiu always ends her talks with words of encouragement, noting that when we keep our bodies in shape, “We don’t get old, we get stronger.”