In Good Health by In Good Health: MV's Healthcare Newspaper

in good

Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper

May 2013 • Issue 87

It’s time to ‘Meet Your Doctor!’ Page 4

Study: Bras Make Breasts Sag

FREE

Mentally ill a threat?

Be aware of violent tendencies See story, Page 5

Oral Health Proper dental hygiene integral for good health.

Senior assistance program supports elderly. Page 12 Get ‘In Good Health’ at home. See coupon inside

Medicare giveth and taketh away. See Page 3

See Page 13

‘Golden Years’ Special Edition • Keep brain sharp as a tack: Page 7 • Makeup tips for mature women: Page 8 May 2013 •

IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper

•

Page 1

CALENDAR of

HEALTH EVENTS

Dr. Graber is pleased to welcome Gregory Dalencourt, MD to the practice

Got a health-related activity or event that you would like publicized? Call Lou Sorendo at 315-749-7070 or email lou@cnymail.com.

Dr. Dalencourt is now seeing new patients for surgical consultation for those considering weight loss surgery

April 30

Our program has successfully met the highest standards set forth by the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery and is recognized as an ASMBS Center of Excellence. Surgeries are performed at Faxton-St. Luke’s Healthcare in Utica, and at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Syracuse. Dr. Graber is the Director of Bariatric Surgery at both hospitals.

To ﬁnd out more, visit DrGraberMD.com or call 877-269-0355 to discuss how we might help you in your search to ﬁnd a healthier you!

Course examines consequence of stroke On April 30, Faxton St. Luke’s Healthcare’s Regional Rehabilitation Center will offer “Relearning Gait After Stroke,” an educational course for physical therapists, occupational therapists and speech-language pathologists. It will take place at 6 p.m. in the community room at the Center for Rehabilitation and Continuing Care Services located on the St. Luke’s Campus at 1650 Champlin Ave., Utica. Richard White, a physical therapist at FSLH, will discuss the components of gait and gait training across the continuum of care. New York State Continuing Education Units will be provided for all physical therapists and physical therapy assistants in attendance. The cost to attend is $10 and is to be paid at the event. Those interested can also register by emailing kmcilwai@mvnhealth.com.

May 1

Cancer support groups for patients, caregivers

• SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY • • WORKERS’ COMPENSATION • John N. Kalil Attorney at Law

Over 38 Years Experience • Prompt • Personal • Professional INCLUDING • Personal Injury • Real Estate • General Practice

Rome Hospital Foundation to present fashion show The Rome Hospital Foundation Fashion Show, presented by Mohawk Valley Women’s Health Associates, will be held May 3 at the Beeches. Traditionally held in late summer, the event moves to May and will feature spring and summer fashions. The evening begins with a cocktail reception at 6 p.m. and fashions on the runway will begin at 7 p.m. Integral to the fashion show will be the presentation of the sixth annual Smart Woman award. For more information, call 315-3387181.

May 5

Support group for separated, divorced The Separated & Divorced Support group meets from 5–6:30 p.m. every other Sunday at The Good News Center, 10475 Cosby Manor Road, Utica. The next meeting will be May 5. The meetings are free and open to all. For more information, contact Andrea, program coordinator, at 315-7356210, andrea@thegoodnewscenter.org or visit www.thegoodnewscenter.org.

Continued on Page 16

Ultra Modern Dentistry Backed by Old Fashioned Values

Where Integrity And Experience Count

315-797-7959

•

May 3

Bruce Stewart, DDS

NO FEE UNLESS SUCCESSFUL 2289 GENESEE ST., UTICA , NY Page 2

Faxton St. Luke’s Healthcare in Utica is holding two support groups for cancer patients and their caregivers beginning May 6. The cancer patient support group will meet from 2–3:30 p.m. on May 6, 13 and 20, and June 3, 10 and 17 at the Faxton Campus, Weaver Lounge, first floor, 1676 Sunset Ave., Utica. The group provides support to anyone who has received a cancer diagnosis. The cancer caregiver support group will meet from 6–7 p.m. on May 6, 13 and 20, and June 3, 10 and 17 at the same location.

Participants are asked to use the urgent care entrance. The group offers support to those providing care to someone diagnosed with cancer. For more information or to register, call Laurie Conover at 315-624-5241 by May 1.

IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • May 2013

• Advanced Laser Periodontal therapy available. • Implants placed and restored • CEREC Crowns - beautiful, strong, done in one visit • Digital low radiation x-rays • Root Canal therapy • Natural tooth colored ﬁllings • Complete Smile makeovers • Complete recare services including periodontal and oral cancer screenings

Extended Payment Plans through Care Credit

321 Main St., Oneida, NY 13421

(315) 363-4940 www.oneidanydentist.com Join Us On FACEBOOK

Report card time Medicare cuts hospitals that don’t make the grade By Alyssa Mammano

ommunity Memorial Hospital in Hamilton received the second-largest Medicare payback increase in New York state, at 0.41 percent per Medicare patient. Comparatively, all other Mohawk Valley hospitals—including Mary Imogene Bassett Hospital which umbrellas the Little Falls Hospital branch—Rome Memorial Hospital, St. Elizabeth Medical Center, Oneida Healthcare Center and Faxton St. Luke’s Healthcare—received pay cuts. “We are very proud. I am very proud of the individuals here,” said Sean Fadale, president and CEO of Community Memorial Hospital. “The employees here and the medical staff take the responsibility for delivering excellent care. We take excellent patient satisfaction very, very seriously.” The percentage increase or decrease in Medicare assistance each hospital will receive began Jan. 1 under a new payment system. The hospital value-based purchasing program under The Affordable Care Act, also known as “Obamacare,” rewards or penalizes hospitals based on quality of service. Under the hospital value-based purchasing program, every hospital’s payments were cut by 1 percent, totaling about $964 million. Medicare then distributed a percentage of that back to each hospital based on its performance. Each hospital’s percentage is weighted 70 percent by how well it follows 12 clinical guidelines, and 30 percent by patient satisfaction surveys. These numbers will be recalculated on a yearly basis. Under this program, Medicare compared nearly 3,000 hospitals nationwide on their performance adhering to standards of care, as well as a patient survey asking each person to rate his or her stay.

Mohawk Valley numbers

Based on this system, Medicare determined a 0.13 percent decrease for Mary Imogene Bassett Hospital; a 0.67 percent decrease for Rome Memorial Hospital; a 0.81 percent decrease for St. Elizabeth Medical Center, a 1.09 percent decrease for Oneida Healthcare Center and a 1.16 percent decrease for Faxton St. Luke’s Healthcare in Utica. “These types of cuts in reimburse-

ment have a significant impact on our organization,” said FSLH Vice President of Communications and Marketing Debra Altdoerffer. According to Altdoerffer, FSLH will lose $75,000 in Medicare payments and $300,000 due to readmissions. Of the above mentioned, Community Memorial consistently received higher percentages of satisfied patients. “With healthcare reform moving forward, paying for performance is going to become the norm. Just because we scored well this first time around does not mean we are resting on our laurels. We are going to continue to work hard to improve our outcomes and our patients’ experiences,” Fadale said. FSLH remained at the lower end of percentages, with the rest falling somewhere in between. “FSLH has processes in place to consistently review the measures of care imposed by Medicare to make sure we are providing our patients and residents with safe, quality care as well as accurately documenting their care. We continue to work to meet the appropriate standards so we can avoid cuts in our Medicare payments,” said Altdoerffer.

Tough criteria

The survey asked patients to rate aspects such as communication, length of wait, control of pain, cleanliness, noise level and if they would recommend the hospital to others. Eightytwo percent of patients said they would recommend Community Memorial, whereas only 57 percent said they would recommend Rome Memorial. “I think the main reason [we earned an increase] is because we pay attention to it. That’s not to say other organizations in the region don’t pay attention to it, but it is ingrained in what we do every day,” said Fadale. On a national level, Medicare is rewarding 1,557 hospitals with pay increases and cutting payments to 1,427 low-scoring hospitals. Payments for about two-thirds of the hospitals change by less than a quarter of a percent, but for most hospitals Medicare patients make up the majority of their business. Therefore, hundreds of thousands of dollars are at stake. For example, Medicaid and Medicare represent two-thirds of revenue for

ONEIDA, HERKIMER, MADISON AND OTSEGO COUNTIES in good A monthly newspaper published by

Health MV’s Healthcare Newspaper

Local News, Inc. Distribution: 20,000 copies. To request home delivery ($15 per year), call 315-749-7070.

In Good Health is published 12 times a year by Local News, Inc. © 2013 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 Editor & Publisher: Wagner Dotto • Associate Editor: Lou Sorendo Contributing Writers: Patricia Malin, Barbara Pierce, Kristen Raab, Malissa Allen, Mary Stevenson, Deb Dittner, Amylynn Pastorella Advertising: Jennifer Wise Layout & Design: Chris Crocker Ofﬁce Manager: Laura Beckwith

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.

FSLH, according to Altdoerffer. “Of note, our area also has a higher percentage of Medicare patients compared to other regions, which means hospitals in our region see more Medicare patients and can be more severely impacted when the cuts occur,” Altdoerffer said. According to the data provided by Kaiser Health News, New York state hospitals are among the worst in the United States, accompanied by District

of Columbia, Connecticut, Wyoming and Delaware. Hospitals in Maine, Nebraska, South Dakota, Utah and South Carolina fared the best. Compared to the national averages, New York state hospital patients are generally 5.8 percent less satisfied with their level of care. “The bar is being raised all around and everyone is realizing there is a scorecard now. Everyone is going to be working very hard to achieve those high marks,” Fadale said.

��

Central New York Surgical, PC

2202 Genesee Street, Utica • 315-732-0349 • www.centralnysurgical.com

Specializing in minimally invasive surgery, gastrointestinal disease/surgery, and the treatment of gastroesophageal reﬂux.

University quality healthcare you don’t have to leave town for! May 2013 •

IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper

•

Page 3

Excellus looks for owners of ‘forgotten funds’ Unclaimed checks will eventually go to state

ore than 9,100 individuals and companies in New York state have forgotten more than $1.1 million in checks issued by Excellus Health Plan, including by its d.b.a., Excellus BlueCross BlueShield. This isn’t money left in their pockets, but is in the form of unclaimed checks issued in 2009 to members and providers. A complete list of names of people and companies with checks to claim is available on the company’s website at excellusbcbs.com/forgottenfunds. Printed legal notices listed by county have been placed recently in regional daily or weekly newspapers across New York state. Every year, the state requires insurers like Excellus BCBS to make a list of unclaimed checks that are at least three years old. The names are then placed in advertisements in local papers in an attempt to find the people who have money to claim. If the property is not claimed by the end of August, the money is then turned over to the comptroller of the state of New York. “This is money that was paid for claims or refunded premiums. If the money remains unclaimed it will go to the state,” said Eve Van de Wal, regional president. “It rightfully belongs to our members or providers and we want to make sure they have one more chance to claim it before it goes to the state.” Most of the funds that have yet to be redeemed were allocated to Excellus BCBS members and providers. Checks may not have been cashed for a number of reasons. The member may have moved and not left a forwarding address, a member may have died, or the member simply forgot about the money. To claim a check prior to Aug. 31, do one of the following steps: • Via email: Contact customer services at www.excellusbcbs.com/ wps/portal/xl/our/contact/> or provider services at www.excellusbcbs.com/wps/portal/xl/prv/cnt/ cnt. • By phone: If you are currently a health plan member, call the phone number on your member identification card. • If you are no longer a health plan member, or if you are calling on behalf of the estate of a family member, call Excellus BlueCross BlueShield at 1-877-757-3850. Note that checks will not be mailed to claimants until after Aug. 31. Page 4

•

Meet

Your Doctor

By Lou Sorendo

Dr. Hend Abdelwahab

Hend Abdelwahab recently joined the staff at St. Elizabeth Medical Center at its New Hartford office at 4401 Middle Settlement Road. She is a 2012 graduate of the St. Elizabeth family medicine residency program and is board certified. Recently, Mohawk Valley In Good Health Associate Editor Lou Sorendo interviewed Abdelwahab in regards to her career. Q.: How was your transition from the healthcare system in Egypt to the one featured in the United States? What are some of the major differences in terms of how they are structured? A.: There is a difference in the systems, but my transition was easy and not so hard. I’m used to both systems. Here there is more documentation, whereas in Egypt there is easy access to physicians. A patient can knock on the door and come see a doctor and there is no need to track a lot of records. Q.: Why did you choose St. Elizabeth Medical Center and the Mohawk Valley as a place to practice? What do you like about the area? A.: I’m used to the North Country because we were in Buffalo for my husband’s ob-gyn residency at the University at Buffalo School of Medicine and Biomedical Science. I’m used to the weather and everything. I didn’t mind being here, and besides my husband was working in the North Country. Because of my family, I chose the most accessible facility to continue my education and training. I’ve heard good things about St. Elizabeth’s, and enjoy the cultural diversity. Utica is also a great place to raise children. Q.: Why did you choose family medicine as a specialty? What motivated you to select this career choice? A.: It was my preference since the beginning. It’s a challenge to take care of the entire family. I like having social communication with the patient and taking care of everything. It’s a challenge but a nice one. I love it. Q.: Is there a subspecialty within family medicine that you prefer to practice, such as pediatrics, etc.? A.: I love pediatrics and I love kids. I love obstetrics and women’s care too. But I prefer seeing everybody. I deal with everyone, but like seeing kids in my clinic. Q.: What is the most challenging aspect of being a physician who specializes in family medicine? A.: I like seeing everyone in the family, such as taking care of a mother and father or husband and wife together. There are different personalities, backgrounds and cultures, so you have to be respectful to everyone. Q.: What are some of the more common ailments and/illnesses that you encounter? A.: Hypertension is one of the most common things. Everyday we see patients with high blood pressure and high cholesterol. It is related to lifestyle and diet and both need modification. People have become more lazy, are getting less exercise, and eat fast food because of

IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • May 2013

their busy lifestyle. Q.: Are students choosing family medicine as a specialty when they graduate medical school? Is there a shortage of general practitioners in the region? A.: We always need family practi-

tioners because there is always a shortage and always a need. It’s like the first door into healthcare. From working with students, I have met many who are choosing family medicine as a career. Q.: What have been some of the more recent medical developments in the area of family medicine that have made practicing more efficient? A.: There are always new developments with medication, and we have seen people seeking natural remedies. Screening guidelines are also changing, and primary prevention has developed as well. Q.: What skill sets do you possess which make you an effective physician? What skill sets do you believe are necessary in order to become an exceptional physician? A.: First you have to be compassionate with patients and have good communication. You have to share ideas with patients and make them the center of care.

Lifelines Birth date: Nov. 11 Birthplace: Cairo, Egypt Current residence: New Hartford Education: Medical degree with honors from Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt Affiliations: American Family Physicians; American Medical Association Personal: She and her husband, Ashraf Aly, an obstetriciangynecologist at the St. Elizabeth Women’s Health Center, are parents of two girls and one boy. Hobbies: Reading, portrait drawing, arts, walking and spending time with family

Cover Story

The mentally ill Be vigilant with those who may resort to violence By Barbara Pierce • Herkimer County, March 2013: Six persons gunned down, four died. It is alleged that the killer had recently been released from a mental institution. • Newtown, Conn., December 2012: 20 children and six adults killed by a young man believed to have lived with mental illness since childhood. Aurora, Colo., July 2012: 12 killed, 58 wounded. The killer had seen a psychiatrist prior to the killings and appeared to be severely mentally ill. • Tucson, Ariz., January 2011: 18 persons were shot, six died. The gunman had shown signs of severe mental illness for several years. • Virginia Tech, April 2007: 32 persons killed, 11 wounded. The killer was clearly a person with severe mentally illness. Advocates for the mentally ill are faced with a deep dilemma each time deadly crimes are perpetrated by those with a mental illness. Obviously, such acts are not sane. It is important to remember that most mentally ill people are no threat to anyone but themselves. The vast majority of persons with a mental health disorder do not harm others. One in four adults experience a mental health disorder in a given year. One in 17 live with a serious mental illness such as schizophrenia, depression, bipolar disorder, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, borderline personality disorder, or others. Three quarters of all serious mental illnesses begin by the age of 24. Mental illnesses are diseases of the young. Mental illnesses are medical conditions that disrupt a person’s daily functioning. They disrupt his or her thoughts, feelings, moods, and ability to relate to others. Just as diabetes is a disorder of the pancreas, mental illnesses are brainbased conditions.

Families often have concerns about their young adults. Do they have a mental illness? Could they become violent?

Mental health disorders

Diagnosing a mental illness can only be done by a qualified mental health professional. The most disabling mental disorders include: • Major depression is the most frequently diagnosed disorder. A person with major depression is persistently sad and feels hopeless, and may even have thoughts of suicide. This is a disabling disorder, as it interferes with one’s ability to lead a normal life. Depression does respond well to medication. • Bipolar disorder: Emotions swing from abnormally high (manic) to dangerously low (depressed). This illness was previously called manic-depressive. The extremes are so severe that

they damage relationships and result in poor performance in school or work. Irritability and frequent anger outbursts can be a symptom. With long-term medication, symptoms can be controlled and persons with bipolar disorder can lead a normal life. • Schizophrenia is the most disabling mental illness. To be diagnosed, two of these symptoms need to be present: delusions, hallucinations, disorganized speech, disorganized or catatonic behavior, or emotional flatness. Long-term medications are essential to control the symptoms. • Autism spectrum disorders, including Asperger’s syndrome, begin when a child is young and are difficult to diagnose. There is a wide degree of variation on how it affects the child. Children with this disorder are impaired in everyday social interaction, have difficulty communicating at age level, and make repetitive movements. Children with this disorder can make substantial improvements; some lead normal lives as adults.

Have a strategy

What can we do if we have a family member with a mental illness, or we suspect he or she has a mental illness? In response to this concern, the National Alliance on Mental Illness released a new fact sheet: “What Families Can Do When a Child May Have a Mental Illness.” NAMI is a grassroots organization dedicated to building better lives for those affected by mental illness. NAMI advocates and supports persons with mental illness and their families. This factsheet came in response to requests from parents wanting to know more about early warning signs and treatment for mental illness. “What Families Can Do” lists warning signs that every parent should be aware of.

If you are worried about the mental health of a family member, follow your instincts. Unexplained changes in a person’s behavior or mood may be the early warning signs of a mental health condition and should never be ignored. The person may be withdrawn, sad or overly anxious; may have extreme difficulty interacting with friends and family members, and may have wide mood swings. Sleeping patterns may change, either sleeping excessively or having difficulty sleeping. Eating patterns may change to overeating or loss of appetite. Increased or persistent use of alcohol or drugs is a warning sign. Aggressive, irritable behavior is a warning, as is making threats to harm himself or others. Hallucinations, paranoia, or delusions indicate a problem. Any sudden or extreme change in behavior can be a warning sign. To locate a qualified professional, speak with your physician. If the family member is a minor child, discuss your concerns with his pediatrician. Also, discuss your concerns with his school. Connect with other families who have or are experiencing similar challenges. Never underestimate the importance of connecting with other families. There are many seasoned families who have walked the same path and are happy to share their experience with you. “We’re all dealing with mental illness,” said Bonny Muffett of the NAMI chapter in Utica. “I found out things I would never have known that have helped me with my 19 year old son. We have parents of children of all ages.” To connect with NAMI, the meetings are at 6:30 p.m. on the second Tuesday of each month at the Zion Lutheran Church, New Hartford.

FSLH, St. E’s have $880 million impact on local economy

axton St. Luke’s Healthcare and St. Elizabeth Medical Center in Utica contribute a total of $880 million to the local economy, according to an economic impact analysis that projects the ripple effect of industry spending. As two of the largest employers in Oneida County, the hospitals also support 4,600 full-time equivalent positions, which fund more than $15 million in state and local taxes. “The hospitals are critical to the economic viability of our community,” said Scott H. Perra, president-CEO of FSLH. “In addition to caring for and keeping our community members healthy, we support the economy through the people we employ, the impact of our spending with local

merchants and the effect of hospital employees’ spending and the taxes they pay. Community hospitals like ours are critical to New York’s quality of life and to keeping communities healthy and vibrant.” “St. Elizabeth Medical Center, as well as hospitals throughout New York state and across the nation, is faced with economic challenges due to reductions in Medicare and Medicaid reimbursement,” said Richard H. Ketcham, president-CEO of SEMC. “Even with our financial challenges, we are committed to excellence in healthcare and education. We provide quality care to all we serve with compassion and respect.” Construction at both facilities is also having a positive impact on the

local economy.

Projects boost economy

Building projects such as the renovation of FSLH’s St. Luke’s Home to provide coordinated inpatient rehabilitation, long-term and continuing care services generated local jobs and revenue and resulted in improved health care delivery for the community. On this project alone, $14 million was spent on construction costs and more than $1 million on equipment. This project, funded through Phase 20 of the Health Care Efficiency and Affordability Law of New York State grant and the Federal-State Reform Partnership, opened in February. SEMC spent more than $1.5 million to relocate its radiology services to St. Elizabeth Medical Arts on Middle May 2013 •

Settlement Road, New Hartford, with an additional $1.2 million to upgrade equipment. SEMC also spent $8 million on the new co-generation project and approximately $3.2 million was spent on upgrading its clinical computer system. In 2010, the hospitals saw approximately 95,000 patient visits in their emergency departments, including FSLH’s urgent care. FSLH delivers more than 2,100 babies annually. Combined, nearly 29,000 infants, children, adults and seniors are hospitalized at both facilities annually and there are also thousands of outpatient visits per year for diagnostic testing and treatment.

IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper

•

Page 5

Between You and Me

By Barbara Pierce

In search of ‘Mr. Right’ It’s best to take things slowly

“

Why do I keep picking the wrong men?” Katie asked me. “I met a new guy and he seems so perfect. But, in the end, he always turns out to be such a jerk. What am I doing wrong?” The clues are there, Katie. Right there on the surface. You’re just not seeing them. Here is what I advised Katie. It’s what I look for when I meet a new man: First, take your time to decide whether you want to see him again or not. Do not make a quick decision about him, even when all your hormones are screaming out. Ignore them. Go slowly. Relationships need to evolve—like peeling an onion. You take off the outer skin, then the next skin, and then the next. When you suspect rot, you don’t continue taking off the skins; you throw the onion away and take another. Pierce By going slowly in making a decision about him, you can prevent yourself from having a great deal of pain in the future. An important thing to be aware of is this: As you do things together, watch how he treats others. When you are in line at the store, or at dinner, or at the bar, how does he treat the cashiers, waiters, or bartenders? Is he is rude? Does he get angry or annoyed easily? That’s how he will treat you once he becomes comfortable with you. And, of course, how does he treat you? I had a third date with a man I really liked. I was so excited about seeing him again. But, as soon as he came into my house, he said he had to watch the basketball game, and switched on the TV. No dialogue about whether this was what I wanted. And who grabs another person’s remote and takes charge of it? If there was any doubt in my mind about whether I wanted to see him again, it was gone after he drank all the beer I had in my refrigerator.

Keep an ear out

Watch carefully how he treats you. Also, listen to him. Carefully. Listen to his words, because his words reveal how he thinks. Men who are jerks do have distorted thinking. For example, does he blame everyone else for his faults? Does he say things like, “My boss had it in for me, she just didn’t like me, so I got fired,” or “My ex was a total bitch; she ruined

my life.” Mature people do take responsibility for their screw-ups and do recognize they usually have a part in whatever goes wrong in their lives. Do his words reflect a judgmental attitude? Does he make sweeping generalizations? Like “That doctor was a complete idiot! I should have never trusted him.” Does he see things strictly in black and white? Life is not black and white; most everything has shades of gray. The inflexibility of a person who sees things strictly as black and white is a big red flag. Quick involvement is the biggest red flag of all. You are flattered when this new exciting guy says he is sure you are the only one for him. You want to believe it. It’s what you have been looking for.

Dread commitment

But there are men who have difficulty making a commitment to a woman. They are torn between wanting a relationship and fearing it. Though they say “come closer,” their fear trumps their desire for a relationship—they run away fast when you agree to have a relationship. These men will hurt you; they will hurt you a lot. So when a man pressures you for a commitment early in the relationship, see this as a danger sign, not a good thing. It’s like your grandma always said: “If something seems too good to be true, it probably is.” And, of course you know you must avoid men who use drugs or use alcohol excessively. You will not be the one who rescues him, trust me. You cannot change him or save him from himself. And avoid the man who tries to control you. Like the man who, when I said I didn’t want to see him and that I had something else I had to do, tried at length to get me to change my mind. If I had given in, I would have been in for a steady pattern of being expected to let him tell me what to do. Who said dating was fun? But, for as many wrong men as there are, there are some good ones out there. Don’t settle for anything less. • 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?” contact her at BarbaraPierce06@yahoo.com, or contact her if you have any concerns you would like her to address.

Advertise in In Good Health call 315-749-7070 today! Page 6

•

IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • May 2013

By Jim Miller

Looking for love, companionship online Dear Savvy Senior, What can you tell me about online dating for older people? My daughter has been urging me to give it a try, but at age 62, I’m a little hesitant. Lonely Senior Dear Lonely, Dating sites have become enormously popular among the older generation in recent years. In fact, boomers and seniors make up about 20 percent of online daters today, and the numbers keep growing. Here’s what you should know. Meeting online

If you’re interested in dating again or are just looking for a friend to spend time with, dating websites are an easy way to meet hundreds of new single people without ever having to leave home. If you’re feeling hesitant, a good way to ease into it is to visit a few dating sites and look around. Most services allow you to check out their members at no cost or obligation. Then, if you like what you see, you can sign up (fees typically range between $15 and $60 per month, however some sites are free) and start emailing members you’re interested in or they can email you. Here are some other tips to help you get started.

Choose a site

With over 1,000 matchmaking sites on the Internet today, choosing can be a bit overwhelming. Depending on your preferences here are some popular options to look into. If you don’t want to spend any money, free sites like PlentyofFish.com and OKCupid.com are good places to start, but beware that these sites have a lot of ads. If you’re interested in other choices, consider mainstream sites like Match.com and eHarmony.com which have huge memberships in all demographics. Or, if you are looking to find a specific type of person, there are hundreds of niche sites like OurTime.com and SeniorPeopleMeet.com for those 50 and older, Alikewise.com for book lovers, DateMyPet.com for animal lovers, VeggieDate.org for vegetarians, JDate.com for Jewish singles, BlackPeopleMeet. com for African Americans, and ChristianMingle.com whose slogan is “Find God’s Match for You.” Or, check out AARP’s new dating website partner HowAboutWe.com.

Create a profile

When you join a dating site you’ll need to create a personality profile that reflects who you are including recent photos, hobbies, interests, favorite activities and more. If you need some help, sites like eFlirtExpert.com or VirtualDatingAssistants.com can write one for you for a fee.

Use caution

When you register with a dating site you remain anonymous. No one gets access to your full name, address, phone number or email until you decide to give it out. So be very prudent who you give your information to, and before meeting, chat on the phone a few times or video chat online, and when you do meet in person for the first time, meet in a public place or bring a friend along. If you want to be extra cautious, you can do a quick background check on your date for a few dollars at sites like valimate.com and mymatchchecker.com.

Don’t be naive

In an effort to get more responses, many people will exaggerate or flat out lie in their profiles, or post pictures that are 10 years old or 20 pounds lighter. So don’t believe everything you see or read.

Make an effort

A lot of times, people — especially women — sit back and let others come to them. Don’t be afraid to make the first move. When you find someone you like, send a short note that says, “I really enjoyed your profile. I think we have some things in common.” Keep it simple.

Don’t get discouraged

If you don’t get a response from someone, don’t let it bother you. Just move on. There are many others that will be interested in you and it only takes one person to make Internet dating worthwhile. Send your senior questions to: Savvy Senior, P.O. Box 5443, Norman, OK 73070, or visit SavvySenior.org. Jim Miller is a contributor to the NBC Today show and author of “The Savvy Senior” book.

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.

The Social Ask Security Ofﬁce

Golden Years Donating to science Noble gesture: Bodies donated to support medical research By Patricia J. Malin

illie Behrens enjoyed an exciting career, first in nursing and later in science research. Even though she is now deceased, her contributions are still ongoing, thanks to her desire to make an anatomical gift to SUNY Upstate Medical University in Syracuse. Behrens, a Ph.D. who lived in New Hartford, died at the age of 90 last January. She was single and had no children, but is survived by two sisters and eight nieces and nephews. Patricia Schiller of Geneva, her niece, carried out her aunt’s wishes. “When she was in nursing school, she remembered how she learned nursing by working on cadavers,” said Schiller. “And she felt it was important for the next generation to learn that way.” The department of cell and developmental biology at Upstate runs the anatomical gift program. The department accepts the donation of any individual 18 years of age and older and there is no upper age limit. Donated bodies are used for teaching anatomy. Behrens was among several donors honored during the department’s 33rd annual memorial service recently at Hendricks Chapel at Syracuse University. First-year medical and physical therapy students organized the memorial service in “respect for the donors and their families,” the website states. “(It) provides the opportunity for the students and their instructors to demonstrate their appreciation for the donors’ important gifts” to medical research and education. “Health professionals from firstyear medical and physical therapy students to residents and faculty at the Upstate Medical University benefit greatly from the opportunity to engage in active, hands-on learning about the intricacies of the human body,” the website explains. Behrens was born in 1922 on a farm in Geneva that lacked indoor plumbing, said Schiller. Her formal education began in a one-room schoolhouse in Geneva. She had three sisters, but one of them, Elsie, contracted polio and spent several years in an iron lung before her death at a young age. It was this experience that apparently impacted Behrens’s choice of a career. She had also developed a strong interest in engineering, which was a career still off-limits to women in the mid-20th century. After graduating from Geneva High School, she received her degree from Rochester General Hospital School of Nursing in 1944. Schiller recalled her aunt telling her that in the 1940s, girls were not allowed to attend classes at the University of Rochester, so nurses took their studies off campus.

Served in armed forces

Behrens enlisted in the U.S. Army

and served in the Nurse Corps in the South Pacific during World War II. After the war, she was hired temporarily as a campus nurse at Naperville College, near Chicago. During the summer of 1947, she got a temporary job as a nurse-hostess traveling with a group known as the Happiness Tour of Canada, Mexico and the U.S. Behrens later taught anatomy and psychology at the University of Rochester and was a nursing instructor at Auburn Memorial Hospital from 1954-57. Coincidentally, a colleague of Behrens from Auburn Hospital was also an anatomical donor to Upstate this year Behrens and was honored at the memorial service at Hendricks Chapel. Behrens continued her education via the GI Bill, earning a Bachelor of Science in nursing education at the University of Rochester. She obtained a Ph.D. in zoology from Syracuse University in 1963. She was employed as a research scientist at the Masonic Medical Research Lab in Utica from 1963–82, specializing in vision research. While with the Masonic lab, she spent time as a visiting scientist at the Institute for Neurobiology in Julich, Germany. Schiller said her aunt had disclosed that her career in research was her priority throughout her life. “She said that she never considered getting married because she would have to be a ‘traditional’ wife,” said Schiller. “She felt she couldn’t be so independent and combine marriage and a career.” In retirement, Behrens continued to help others. She volunteered as a reading tutor at Watson Williams Elementary School and the soup kitchen at Grace Church, both in Utica. She also requested that donations in her name be made to Doctors Without Borders in Hagerstown, Md., after her death. Anatomical donations to Upstate are kept for a maximum of two years. However, donations may be provided for use by another institution of higher education in New York state in which gross anatomy is an integral and required component of an accredited program to educate health professionals. This is provided that the institution is licensed by the New York State Department of Health as a whole body user, according to Upstate’s website. Upon completion of the studies, the remains will be cremated at the expense of SUNY Upstate Medical University at a New York state-licensed crematory. Cremains of the donor will be returned to a person or funeral home as designated by the donor or his or her agent if requested.

Column provided by the local Social Security Office

Can’t work due to disability?

isability is something most people don’t like to think about. But if you’re not able to work because you have a disabling condition that is expected to last at least one year or result in death, then it’s a subject you may not be able to avoid. You should apply for disability benefits as soon as you become disabled. It may take you months to obtain all your medical records and for us to process an application for disability benefits. The types of information we need include: • medical records or documentation you have; we can make copies of your records and return your originals; • the names, addresses, and phone numbers for any doctors, hospitals, medical facilities, treatment centers, or providers that may have information related to your disabling condition; • the names, addresses, and phone numbers for recent employers and the dates worked for each employer; and • your federal tax return for the past year. If you don’t have all of the information handy, that’s no reason to delay. You should still apply for benefits right

Q&A

Q: My wife doesn’t have enough work under Social Security to qualify for Social Security or Medicare. But I am fully insured and eligible. Can she qualify on my record? A: Yes. The question you’ve raised applies to husbands as well as wives. Even if your spouse has never worked under Social Security, she (or he) can, at full retirement age, receive a benefit equal to one-half of your full retirement amount. Your wife is eligible for reduced spouses benefits as early as age 62, as long as you are already receiving benefits. If your spouse will receive a pension for work not covered by Social Security such as government employment, the amount of his or her Social Security benefits on your record may be reduced. For more information, take a look at the fact sheet, Government Pension Offset, Publication No. 05-10007 at www.socialsecurity.gov/ pubs/10007.pdf. For more information, visit www.socialsecurity.gov and select the “Retirement” tab. Q: My neighbor said he applied for Social Security retirement benefits on the computer. Can you really apply for retirement without traveling to an office? A: Yes you can! And what’s more, it’s the easiest, fastest, and most convenient way to apply for retirement benefits. There’s no need to fight the traffic to visit an office and wait to be served. Our website makes it simple, allowing you to apply for retirement benefits in as little as 15 minutes. You can get started now at www.socialsecurity.gov/applyonline. May 2013 •

away. Social Security can assist you in getting the necessary documents, including obtaining your medical records. Just keep in mind that if you do have the information we need, it will probably speed up the time it takes to make a decision. The fastest and most convenient way to apply for disability is online at www.socialsecurity.gov/applyfordisability. You can save your application as you go, so you can take a break at any time. If you prefer, you may call our tollfree number, 1-800-772-1213, to make an appointment to apply at your local Social Security office or to set up an appointment for someone to take your application over the phone. If you are approved for disability benefits, that doesn’t mean you’ll never be able to work again. In fact, Social Security has special rules called “work incentives” that allow you to test your ability to work. Learn more about disability benefits and take advantage of the helpful Disability Starter Kit at www.socialsecurity.gov/disability/disability_starter_kits.htm.

Q: What is the earliest age I can begin receiving retirement benefits? A: The earliest age you can begin receiving Social Security retirement benefits is 62. If you decide to receive benefits before your full retirement age, which for most people is age 66 or 67, you will receive a reduced benefit. Keep in mind you will not be able to receive Medicare coverage until age 65, even if you decide to retire at an earlier age. For more information, go to www. socialsecurity.gov. Q: Is there a time limit on how long I can receive Social Security disability benefits? A: Your disability benefits will continue as long as your medical condition has not improved and you cannot work. Social Security will periodically review your case to determine whether you continue to be eligible. If you are still receiving disability benefits when you reach your full retirement age, your disability benefits will automatically be converted to retirement benefits. Learn more about disability benefits at www.socialsecurity.gov/disability. Q: Why is there a five-month waiting period for Social Security disability benefits? A: The law states Social Security disability benefits can be paid only after you have been disabled continuously throughout a period of five full calendar months. Social Security disability benefits begin with the sixth full month after the date your disability began. You are not able to receive benefits for any month during the waiting period.

IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper

•

Page 7

Golden Years Makeup for the mature woman How to go from aged to ageless For eye shadow, stick with muted shades that flatter rather than overwhelm. Use a cream shadow. Avoid glimmer, glitter, white, or bright colors, as they will age you. Older women tend to have dryer skin. Cream foundations are better than powder. Watch the color you select; pick a color that matches your skin tone. Anything darker looks fake and anything lighter leaves you looking washed out.

By Barbara Pierce

ust as it’s important to take your age into consideration when you choose clothing, it’s essential to wear makeup that’s suitable for your stage in life. For an older woman, the same bright, flashy makeup we used in our 20s and 30s will not flatter our appearance. Wearing excessive makeup after a certain age does not enhance looks, but drags down the face and makes us appear older than we are. The idea behind makeup for a mature woman: Less is more. Strive for a look that is classic, tasteful and flattering. Niki Messina-Loefler, owner and operator of Niki Marie’s Salon and Spa, shared tips on how a woman can erase the years and look more attractive and youthful. Loefler is a cosmetologist and popular stylist in the Mohawk Valley. Nicole Barletta-Lincourt, manager of Niki Marie’s Salon and Spa, also gave input: The first rule when doing your makeup is to make sure your skin is in good condition, recommends MessinaLoefler. The better condition your skin is, the less makeup you’ll need. Keep your skin well hydrated and exfoliated, and you will be able to get away with using just a little under eye cream, mascara, and gloss for your daily regimen. To keep your skin well hydrated, add moisture to your skin care regime. Switch from cleansing gels or bars to cleansing milks. Use face creams that are richer and add the extra nourishment your skin needs. Make sure you apply a lip balm before going to bed each night.

Keep that look alive

Exfoliating, or removing dead skin, gets you glowing. Use a gentle exfoliat-

Easy on the foundation

ing cleanser designed for your face once or twice a week. Stay away from dark lipsticks, advises Messina-Loefler. Unless you have dark skin and really plump lips, dark lipsticks will age you. Stick with rosy reds and pinks. If you’re trying to achieve a plumper lip, Messina-Loefler recommends using lip gloss. Start off by adding a little color and use a lip pencil or lipstick one to two shades darker than your natural lip color all over your lips. Next, add a dab of lip gloss and you’ll have the perfect plump lips. Lipstick colors can bleed unless you seal your lips with a lip liner. Apply a neutral lip liner that matches your real lip color to keep lipstick from seeping into fine lines around the mouth. When it comes to eyeliner, pencil liner is softer on your face than liquid liner, said Messina-Loefler. If you want

to soften the line even more, smudge with your finger. Avoid thick eyeliner. Do not cake on eyeliner in an attempt to make your eyes appear larger; it only looks garish. Choose a light charcoal or muted complementary shade and line as closely to the lash line as possible to make the eyes look bigger. Do not over-pluck your eyebrows; this can age you. If you have bushy brows, have them professionally arched. If your brows are thin, pick a shade of pencil close to your natural color and fill in sparse areas to take away from the harsh look of thin brows. Do not use mascara on your bottom eyelashes. Using excess mascara only gives you a tacky look and it can smudge and run, making you look much older than you are.

Study: Bras make breasts sag

or generations, women have been advised that wearing a bra would keep breasts from sagging, prevent back pain and improve posture. Wrong, wrong and wrong, according to a study conducted by Jean-Denis Rouillon, a sports medicine specialist from the Centre Hospitalier Universitaire in Besancon, France. “Medically, physiologically, anatomically — breasts gain no benefit from being denied gravity,” Rouillon said, as quoted on TheLocal.fr. “On the contrary, they get saggier with a bra.” Rouillon should know: Since 1997, he has been studying the breasts of 330 volunteers aged 18 to 35 using a slide ruler and a caliper to record the changes in breast position as the women aged. His meticulous research revealed Page 8

•

that women could experience about a 1/4-inch (7-millimeter) lift in the nipples each year they didn’t wear a bra, news site Counsel & Heal reports. The researchers involved in the study suggested that bras — which Rouillon now calls “a false necessity”— discourage the growth of supporting breast tissue, leaving the breasts to sag more quickly. Other research has challenged the conventional wisdom that breast-feeding causes breast ptosis (sagging). A 2007 study of 132 women revealed that breast-feeding had no effect on the degree of breast sagging. What did affect breast ptosis, that research revealed, was age, smoking status and the number of times a woman had become pregnant.

IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • May 2013

Because Rouillon’s study focused on younger women, he cautioned that the results can’t be generalized to all women. “It would be dangerous to advise all women to stop wearing their soutien-gorge [bra] as the women involved were not a representative sample of the population,” he said, as quoted in French news site The Connexion. “It would be of no benefit to a 45-year-old mother to stop wearing a bra,” Rouillon said. One of the participants in the study extolled the virtues of going bra-free: “There are multiple benefits: I breathe more easily, I carry myself better and I have less back pain,” she told news site France Info.

Avoid applying thick layers of foundation. One layer is effective to cover age spots, discolorations and even out your skin tone. When you apply foundation with a heavy hand, it can creep into wrinkles and accentuate lines; too much will look gaudy. Keep it simple and use light shades of makeup to obtain the most natural look possible. Less is better when it comes to applying blush. You want to apply just a dab of blush on the apples of your cheeks, said Messina-Loefler. The trick to having it all look natural is blending it all really well. Adding little pops of color to your face, then blending them in will give you that natural glow we all want to achieve. As we mature, it’s important to focus on taking care of our skin. Fight the effects of aging by reducing your stress levels, getting enough sleep, and exercising. Don’t go crazy with surgical enhancements or cosmetic injections. The more real and natural you look at any age, the better. Niki Marie’s Salon and Spa in Ilion is a full-service salon and spa that opened in 2010 and has become one of the most popular salons in the area. A second salon has recently opened in New York Mills. For more information, call 315-8950327 or visit www.nikimariessalon. com.

Golden Years Mary in the Middle

SNAP is the new name for Food Stamps SNAP maximum gross monthly income guidelines effective October 1, 2012 – September 30, 2013

Household Size

Mom’s fall into dementia heartbreaking

��

By Mary Stevenson

Slow descent of a loved one don’t think that any of us noticed Mom’s fading memory in the beginning. My sister and I were off doing our own thing. She was at law school and I was married and raising a family. We visited as often as we could and life seemed normal. Dad and Mom both worked second shifts and enjoyed breakfasts together. On their days off, they did whatever they wanted to. Retirement was coming and they couldn’t wait. First thing they did when that day came was to return to California. They Stevenson first moved there after they were married in 1969. Sandi and I were born there and grew up with cousins on Dad’s side of the family. They lived there for several years then decided to cross the country again and head home to New York. But Dad loved and missed the sunny state so their return was welcomed. Mom started getting lost on her way home from places she had been many times before. Dad chalked it up to urban expansion and things being different than they were nearly three decades before. Little things she had been doing for years — like leaving for work in her slippers instead of shoes — were running jokes and thought to be “senior moments.” Not much was made of it; even mom herself joked about memory lapses. Another move brought them to Michigan to live with Sandi, where she was working and raising her family. Mom had her first granddaughter out for a stroll through the new neighborhood and couldn’t find her way home. She fumbled for an answer when asked the baby’s name. She was slowing down; we could see it. She’d leave the stove’s gas burner on long after the food was cooked and consumed. Those things didn’t quite trigger concern in

GOOD NUTRITION IS THE BEST MEDICINE

1 2 3 4 Each Add’l Person

any of us. We just kept a closer eye on her activities.

DRIVERS WANTED Drivers wanted to deliver Mohawk Valley In Good Health newspaper in the Herkimer County area once a month. $9 an hour plus mileage. Must have dependable vehicle, be able to lift 45 pounds, and be capable of climbing stairs.

Under 60/Nondisabled Households $1,211 $1,640 $2,069 $2,498 + $429

To ﬁnd out if you may be eligible for SNAP

Call NOEP

Concern rises

A cookie baking experience one year was the turning point. Baking of Easter cookies was a long-standing family tradition. The grandkids were there, along with mom, dad and me. All of the ingredients were out to prepare the dozens and dozens of cookies that were to be made. We didn’t quite use a recipe — it was the same year after year and handed down from generation to generation. I stepped away for a moment and asked mom to finish putting the eggs, flour and other ingredients into the mix. When I came back, I saw that she hadn’t added a single one the way they were supposed to be. We had an entire mess of ingredients that hardly resembled cookie dough of any kind. Mom just looked at it with a blank face, not knowing what was wrong or what should have been right. Much went downhill from there. They moved into a three-bedroom trailer in the town where my sister and I graduated from high school. It was in a quiet park with a stream next to the bedroom window and trees for summer shade. Dad cared for Mom as she couldn’t remember when or if she ate, what foods went together — mayo with cereal instead of milk — or how to take a shower or put on her bra. It was then that I began to provide daily care for her needs — for both their needs. Dad was losing his love to a rotten disease and needed support too. And thus began my journey as a sandwich generation daughter, my mother’s journey into a life not planned and my father’s journey as a husband for better or for worse. • Mary Stevenson is a staff writer with Mohawk Valley In Good Health newspaper.

Disabled, Senior (60+), or Working Families With Dependent Care Costs Households $1,862 $2,522 $3,182 $3,842 + $660

Nutrition Outreach and Education Program

315-894-9917, ext. 235

Catholic Charities of Herkimer County • 61 West Street, Ilion This institution is an equal opportunity provider. Prepared by a project of Hunger Solutions New York, USDA.FNS, and NYSOTDA

Advertise in In Good Health call 315-749-7070 today!

Subscribe to In Good Health Get Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper at home for only $15 a year. FREE with your paid subscription: the 2013 CNY Healthcare Guide

Name __________________________________________ Address ________________________________________ City / Town _________________State ____ Zip ________ Your occupation: _________________________________ Where did you pick up In Good Health? _______________ _______________________________________________ Clip and Mail to:

In Good Health

$15 payment enclosed

4 Riverside Dr., Suite 251, Utica, NY 13502

Call Laura today at 315.342.8020 May 2013 •

IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper

•

Page 9

The Balanced Body

By Deb Dittner

Clean up your nutrition Strike a balance between alkaline, acidic foods

n our everyday lives, we need to find balance—balance of mind, body and spirit. Balance between our wealth and our needs. Balance in our body’s nutritional support. Stepping away from the very acidic standard American diet, which is causing a serious health crisis of obesity, diabetes, heart disease and cancer to name a few, and stepping up to the plate to a cleansing, alkaline diet will create that ever-so-needed balance today. So what is pH and acid and alkaline? The pH range is from 0–14 with 7 being neutral. Below 7 is acid, and above 7 is alkaline. The optimal blood level is 7.365. The pH level of our internal fluids influences every cell and decides our overall health. An alkaline environment allows the systems of the body to function in the best way possible. The SAD mostly consists of highly processed acidic foods such as sugar, meat, breads, caffeine, dairy and alcohol. The continued consumption of these acidic foods will eat away at our tissues and break down the essential functions, creating disease. Consuming a cleansing alkaline diet is best for long-term health goals.

How do we accomplish this? Some simple steps to take include: • Hydration: The quantity and quality of your water will increase energy, improve immunity and promote overall good health. Drinking approximately half of your body weight in ounces daily is a good rule of thumb to follow. Adding lemon or therapeutic grade lemon essential oil to water will give it flavor and aid in detoxifying the body. Herbal teas such as peppermint, rooibos and Dittner nettle will also aid in hydration. • Crowd out: Start slowly by adding more and more alkaline foods to your diet on a daily basis versus trying to do it all at once. By going more slowly, you will not feel like you are depriving yourself and you will start feeling better with each new day. Experiment with different foods and find those that work best for you and your family. When shopping, purchase a new vegetable each week and learn different ways to prepare. • Breathe: Americans typically

don’t know how to breathe. The breath is often shallow and not circulating optimally. Learning a breathing technique will help in removing acids from the bloodstream, creates relaxation and decreases stress. Simple breathing techniques practiced once or twice a day will lead to better focus throughout daily activities. Dr. Andrew Weil has a variety of breathing techniques on his website, www.drweil. com. Here is an easy one to start right now: Sit comfortably with your feet on the ground and eyes closed. Breathe in through the nose for the count of four, hold for the count of eight, breathe out through the mouth for the count of four, and repeat 10 times. Do this on awakening, before bed, and anytime throughout the day where you feel you need some relaxation or stress reduction. • Think green: Good-for-you alkaline foods are your dark green leafy vegetables, salads, fresh vegetables, nuts, seeds, low-sugar fruits, and

HELP REDUCE ER CROWDING. FOR COLD AND FLU SYMPTOMS, SEE YOUR DOCTOR. A recent study found that each year there are hundreds of thousands of emergency room visits in upstate New York that could be avoided. Minor conditions like cold and ﬂu symptoms, congestion, back pain, earaches and sports injuries are best treated by your doctor. If your doctor isn’t available, consider visiting an urgent care facility. And do your part to relieve ER crowding.

Sponsored by the Medical Societies of Herkimer and Oneida Counties, and Excellus BlueCross BlueShield. A nonproﬁt independent licensee of the BlueCross BlueShield Association

Page 10

•

IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • May 2013

healthy oils such as olive oil. Acidic foods are those that are highly processed, refined foods, dairy, sugar-laden, caffeine, condiments, the whites (bread, rice, sugar, pasta), and fast foods. Aim for an 80–20 ratio — 80 percent alkaline foods and 20 percent acidic foods — when choosing what you eat daily. • Supplement: Certain supplements can help toward creating an alkaline system. These consist of green powders (a blend of grasses, fruits and veggies), alkaline water (adding lemon or using an ionizer), and alkaline minerals (sodium, potassium, magnesium and calcium). Cleansing our bodies does not need to be complex or result in having a feeling of deprivation. Aiming toward a nutritional program that is 80 percent alkaline and 20 percent acidic, adding movement, and enjoying family and friends will lead you toward a happier and healthier life. Balance is key. • Deborah Dittner is a family nurse practitioner specializing in Reiki and holistic nutrition. Visit her website at www.The-Balanced-Body.com.

Florica Ochotorena, M.D.

Board Certiﬁed

Adult & Geriatric Psychiatrist

& Palliative Care Oneida, Herkimer and Eastern Madison Counties

Call us today to make a referral!

315-337-2582 117 West Liberty Street, Rome, NY

The residents and staff at Alpine welcome you to visit OUR NEW HOME! �� OUR MISSION STATEMENT Alpine Rehabilitation & Nursing Center promotes individualized resident/family-centered care whereby the resident and their families are our partners in providing quality health care through meaningful relationships.

TRAID program serving Mohawk Valley

he Technology Related Assistance for Individuals with Disabilities program of Upstate Cerebral Palsy, an equipment lending library for persons with disabilities, is now located in Barneveld. TRAID serves persons in Oneida, Herkimer, Jefferson, Lewis, Hamilton, Fulton and Montgomery counties and conducts an outreach to the outlying counties periodically. The program was initiated through the Federal Tech Act Grant and provides opportunities for individuals, therapists and educators to try equip-

ment and devices before purchasing them, use them for short-term needs or while waiting to receive their own device. TRAID items include durable medical equipment, sensory items, educational software, computer access hardware, daily living devices and a variety of switches and communication devices. Contact TRAID, 10708 N. Gage Road, Barneveld, for more information at 315-896-2654 or by fax at 315-8962717. May 2013 •

IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper

•

Page 11

Golden Years

Love thy neighbor

Founder of senior assistance program strives to inspire other communities to start their own By Avery Galek

or over 30 years, Your Neighbors, Inc. continues to provide assistance to seniors in the greater Utica area, especially for those who lack extended family support. “I call them my angels because that’s what they are,” said Marie MacMaster, 90, of New Hartford. Although the program does not provide medical care, it acts as a companion for seniors, helping them with day-to-day tasks. “It really allows them to stay independent,” said Sara Looman, program director and coordinator. “The clients are always extremely appreciative of what we do and what the volunteers do.” Looman works as the only paid staff member. The majority of employees work on a volunteer basis, providing their own transportation. They often give clients rides or stay with them if needed. Its No. 1 service is what is known as “companion medical rides.” Volunteers take seniors to doctor appointments or pick up prescriptions. It is not uncommon to assist clients after serious operations. Another common service is grocery-shopping assistance, where volunteers will take clients shopping or do it completely for them. “What we do are things that you would literally do for your neighbor or your aging parent,” said Carole Grove, founder and former president of the board of directors.

At your service

Your Neighbors, Inc. does not do personal bathing or housekeeping. Yet, it prides itself in helping with miscellaneous tasks and errands. These include taking seniors to get their hair cut, to do their taxes, or even a trip to the cemetery. “Once we form a relationship with somebody, we do a lot of informal things,” Grove said. “These folks may

Carole Grove, founder and former president of Your Neighbors, Inc., stocks meat in a freezer at the facility at 1640 Genesee St, Utica. For more information, call 315-7326804. have very attentive families, but the way the world is now, children are scattered. They may be living far away or they’ve outlived a lot of their peers.” Your Neighbors, Inc. also provides an emergency food program. It often aids seniors who were recently discharged from the hospital who are not quite back on their feet. Cooks prepare fully cooked meals in freezer-quality containers, according to Grove. The food is stored in a foodbank arrangement. It is not like the Meals on Wheels program, Grove said. Clients do not receive all their meals this way, but it is an emergency fill-in. Volunteers can bring a week’s worth of meals on a relatively short-term notice, she added. “I can’t say enough for them,” said

The Ragin’ Cajun

Kay Goppert, 90, of New Hartford. “I think they’re a great asset to the community.” The program resides on the border between Oneida and Herkimer counties. Grove said it is not bound by a city or county limit. It regularly serves the communities of North Utica, Whitesboro, New Hartford and Sequoit.

Eligibility guidelines

There are two main guidelines to become eligible for assistance. The program is geared toward people who are primarily housebound or for those who do not have a support system. Up until about four years ago, Your Neighbors, Inc. had been a freestanding nonprofit organization, Grove said. It still is, but has gone under the “umbrella” of Lutheran Care, a facility

By Malissa Allen

The meaning of Mother’s Day

other Nature finally decided to give us a break here and let spring arrive. With spring comes one of my favorite, bittersweet holidays, Mother’s Day. I lost my mom five years ago, leaving such emptiness in my heart. There is just something about the mother that holds everything together. Allen I am a mom of two children, and next month I will gain two stepdaughters that are the center of my life. They each have their Page 12

•

own role and place in my heart. There is no other love as strong as the love a mother has for her child. I decided instead of writing a mushy story about how I love my kids and miss my mom that I would do a little research to see how mothers got a day dedicated to them. As history has shown, women never really were treated as anything other than homemakers. I was quiet surprised at what I discovered. I hope you enjoy your Mother’s

IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • May 2013

Day much more after knowing how it started. According to “www.MothersDayCentral.com,” the majority of countries that celebrate Mother’s Day does so on the second Sunday of May. On this day, it is common for mothers to be celebrated with presents and special attention from their families, friends and loved ones. But it wasn’t always this way.

Spiritual origins

The traditional practice of honoring motherhood is rooted in antiquity. Ancient rites had strong symbolic and spiritual overtones, as societies tended to celebrate goddesses and symbols of

in Clinton, according to Grove. “They wanted to recognize our independent status,” Grove said. “They took us under their umbrella, but we maintained our independent board and our independent nonprofit status.” During this time, the program was funding its part-time director through donations. A New York state coordinator heard of the program and contacted Your Neighbors, Inc. He said the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation was interested in funding the program. “It gave us a sizeable grant,” Grove said. “When that happened, we went full time.” She explained that one of her main efforts is to inspire other communities that it is possible to do the same in their areas. Grove worked for a similar program in Philadelphia during the 1970s. It was built entirely around the food component, she said. When she moved to New York in 1978, she brought the idea with her. After two years, there was a human-interest story written in The Observer-Dispatch about the Philadelphia program. Near the end of the article, it told people who were interested in bringing the program to their community to contact them. By this time it had received national attention. Grove contacted them and quickly found that there was “seed” money available to start additional programs. The catch was that the money would only be available for that calendar year. “So I said, ‘Tell me what to do’,” Grove said. Your Neighbors, Inc. officially began as a nonprofit organization in 1982. She urges people who are interested to call their local hospitals and senior centers to see if there is a need. “There’s a lot of communities in Central New York that could use a program like this,” Grove said. “We would be happy to help any other community that might want to start something like this.” motherhood, rather than actual mothers. Objects of adoration ranged from mythological female deities to the church. Earlier festivals celebrating the Anatolian Mother Goddess were said to be at times so wild that they were eventually discouraged or banned. But the more conservative celebrations of Magna Mater, Hilaria and equivalents, involved eating honey cakes and sharing flowers. The personal, family orientation of Mother’s Day is a relatively new phenomenon. Only in the past few centuries did celebrations of motherhood develop a decidedly human focus, and only in the last century did Mother’s Day take on commercial overtones.

European celebration

By the 16th Century, as Ancient Roman religious and cultural tradi-

Continued from Page 14

Dental Health

Oral exam Dental hygienist takes global view of proper oral health By Patricia J. Malin

s Sherry Priebe donned a red cloak a la Superwoman, she exhorted a group of dental hygienists to take pride in their careers and to make a difference in their communities. Dental hygienists are comparable to nurses, she explained, in that they often work behind the scenes in supporting roles to dentists and doctors. Nonetheless, hygienists should be recognized for having a major role in healthcare education and medicine. “The work of oral care providers is more important than ever,” said Priebe. “Our profession is strategically positioned in the global community. You and I are saving lives. That’s what heroes do.” Priebe, a registered dental hygienist with a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in dental science, was the keynote speaker at the 17th annual Dr. Michelle E. Haddad Memorial Seminar at Utica College recently. The Dr. James M. Rozanski General Practice Residency Program at Faxton St. Luke’s Healthcare in Utica sponsored the seminar. For the 10th consecutive year, the seminar sold out with more than 270 people in attendance. Priebe reminded the attendees that hygienists are on the front lines when it comes to oral health and provide lifesaving prevention and detection of some forms of cancer. Hygienists might be the first or only healthcare provider to treat a child, an uninsured adult or

perhaps a new immigrant to the United States. Priebe’s presentation was titled, “Global Cultural Oral Habits.” She has spent years traveling in Asia and South America while researching and offering dental health services under a program sponsored by the University of British Columbia in Alberta, Canada. The university just opened a new oral health research center in Vietnam last December. Since Utica happens to be home to a refugee center, it’s a crossroads for immigrants from Vietnam, Myanmar (Burma), Somalia, Bosnia and other nations who bring ingrained and sometimes unhealthy habits with them, for example, an addiction to chewing tobacco. She specifically talked about how the influx of immigrants affects dental health treatments on the local level. It’s imperative for hygienists to recognize the dangers of these cultural habits and offer preventive solutions to their patients.

Bad habits proliferate

For families living in Vietnam, Africa and China, such items as kola nuts, betel nuts and betel leaves are considered “gifts” and consumed as regularly as cola or coffee is among Americans. However, Priebe noted that kola nuts are related to coca leaves. “It’s a stimulant,” she said, “but it’s a valued tradition. It’s a big problem in Ethiopia. It’s a treat for kids and it’s in widespread use.” Kola nuts and betel leaves can be

very harmful when chewed, leading to tooth decay, yellow-stained gums, and producing cancerous tumors and ulcers in the mouth, gums, esophagus and stomach. Children in many of these cultures are also exposed to the effects of smokeless tobacco and cigarettes and copy the same habits. In South America, the native populations routinely use coca leaves in cooking and in medicines. “It’s virtually (the same as) cocaine,” said Priebe. “In liquid form, it’s used as a remedy and it’s been used in ceremonies for centuries. It’s said to stop hunger and to give energy.” It’s an especially popular tea among the residents of Machu Picchu. Preibe said coca tea is actually given to tourists (in smaller quantities) to prevent altitude sickness. In the U.S., smokeless tobacco is almost as common, while awareness of the cancer risks is too low. Statistics show about 7 percent of American males over the age of 12 use smokeless tobacco. “We know that smokeless tobacco causes oral cancer as much as cigarettes,” Priebe said. Examining future trends in oral health, she noted that oral cancer is on the rise, the sixth most-commonly diagnosed cancer worldwide. “In Central and Eastern Europe, the rates of oral cancer have doubled among people under the age of 45 who are chewing tobacco and betel leaf,” she said. “It’s an alarming trend.”

Numbers alarming

Dr. Stephen Passalaqua of New Hartford speaks with Sherry Priebe about how dentists can make a difference in their community and in the world.

In the U.S., from 42,000 to 50,000 people will be diagnosed with oral cancer in 2013, according to statistics from the World Health Organization. “Fiftyseven percent of these people will not be alive in five years,” Priebe said. Vietnam has the dubious distinction of having the highest rate of smokMay 2013 •

ing in the world — 72 percent among adult males. During her research in Vietnam, Priebe took photos of people rubbing smokeless tobacco across their gums and teeth, which can cause cancer of the tongue and lips. Combined with alcohol abuse, high poverty levels that prohibit access to healthcare, a widespread lack of education about the risks, plus a lack of healthcare providers dramatically increase the cancer rates among the Vietnamese population. Even after they come to Utica, immigrants tend to fall into the same pattern of behavior. Local dental hygienists, therefore, need to recognize the symptoms of oral cancer and provide thorough screenings and education. Priebe’s presentation did make an impression on Stephen Passalaqua, a New Hartford dentist. He approached Priebe after her lecture and asked how he could become more involved in missions. Passalaqua, 46, said he has volunteered his professional services in Honduras since 2007 as part of a medical and dental team from Houston, Texas. He said he is considering semi-retirement within a few years and hopes he can devote more time to making a difference in the community and in the world. In Honduras, the three volunteer dentists might treat as many as 250 patients a week. “There’s a high rate of oral cancer there, a lot of malnutrition, a lack of awareness and access to health care,” he said. This dental seminar is held annually in honor of the late Haddad, a graduate of Utica College and SUNY Buffalo School of Dentistry. She completed the general practice residency program at FSLH and entered private practice locally. She was a volunteer with the FSLH residency program until her untimely death in 1996.

IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper

•

Page 13

Healing Wounds Rome Memorial unveils its new Regional Center for Wound Care treatment. She said the chambers can only be operated when a physician is on duty. However, the patient will remain in the care of his or her primary physician. “Patients will receive treatment for 90 to 120 minutes,” said Kessler. “Typically, there will be 30 treatments up to five days a week.” To enhance patient comfort, the chambers are equipped with flat-screen TVs and a telephone.

By Patricia J. Malin

espite increasing financial pressures on hospitals, Rome Memorial Hospital is not pulling back. Instead, it is expanding its services. “We’re a community hospital, so we ask ourselves, ‘What services does the community need?’” said RMH President Basil Ariglio as he welcomed business leaders to tour the new Regional Center for Wound Care at 267 Hill Road in the Griffiss Business and Technology Park, Rome. “Obviously, we can’t provide all services, but what should a community hospital provide?” he asked. The hospital held an open house recently for the facility, which offers comprehensive outpatient treatment for hard-toheal wounds. “It’s a service that wasn’t in Rome,” added Ariglio Ariglio. “We have a high incidence of diabetes in the community. Nursing home patients, those with advanced stage, deep wounds and burn patients will also benefit.” The wound care center is located within the Griffiss Professional Office Complex Park at the intersection of Hill Road (Route 825) and Avery Road, next to AmeriCU. Three of Rome Medical Practice’s specialty physician groups—Rome Surgical Specialists, Rome Pulmonary and Sleep Medicine and Upstate Urology—recently moved to 267 Hill Road, Suite 300. Neurologist Glady Jacob is also at 267 Hill Road, while Rome Medical Practice’s billing office is at 245 Hill Road, all in the same complex. This complex of four small build-

Changing times

Visitors tour the hyperbaric chambers during the open house for the new Rome Memorial Hospital Regional Wound Care Center. ings is owned and managed by EGC Properties LLC, eye physicians Pat and John Costello. They opened their own eye surgery center two years ago on Dart Circle in Griffiss Park. Ariglio said the wound care project dates back five years.

Meeting a demand

“We estimated there would be 1,000 patients who would need wound care,” he explained. “But it took us a couple of years to pull the trigger [on the project]. If people from Rome are in a nursing home, they would have to travel to Utica for treatment and that requires an aide and additional time and transportation. Now we can have the same treatment here, plus our surgeons who treat wounds are located here. It’s an advantage to have adjacent offices.” The wound care center has a staff of 10, led by Nicolas Peters. The other staffers are three panel physicians, a program director, a nurse practitioner, clinical manager, registered nurse, a

hyperbaric oxygen technician and an office coordinator. Kimberlie Kessler, LPN, the HBO technician, described the operation of the two hyperbaric oxygen chambers at the site. Rome Hospital did not have any oxygen chambers previously. The pressurized chambers provide 100 percent oxygen to a patient who has deep, unhealed wounds. Hyperbaric therapy works by increasing the amount of oxygen the blood can carry to promote healing and fight infection. The chambers provide treatment for other patients who have wounds that have not healed in 30 days; any wound below the knee, as is the case with diabetics or patients who have problems with veins or poor circulation; patients who have lupus, rheumatoid arthritis or scleroderma, osteomyelitis and tissue damage, or those who might need amputation. Kessler, who previously worked at the VA clinic in Griffiss Park, is undergoing training in hyperbaric oxygen

Rome Hospital is celebrating its 125th anniversary this year, which coincides with a period of reflection on the part of its administrators. Under the Affordable Care Act, which takes effect next January, and due to the current federal sequestration, hospitals can expect to feel a financial pinch over the next decade. It’s expected that reimbursement for Medicare will decrease significantly under the Affordable Care Act, while funding for Medicaid could increase. RMH is anticipating approximately a $20 million reduction in reimbursements over the next 10 years from the act known as “Obama Care,” plus $4 million less in funding for Medicare if sequestration continues, Ariglio pointed out. Already this year, sequestration has meant cuts in federal funding, closing or reduced operating hours and job layoffs or furloughs at government facilities. “If (sequestration) happens, the doctors won’t be taking Medicare patients and that could be a real challenge for us,” he said. That’s why it’s important to study the range of services offered by RMH in relation to competing healthcare facilities in Utica, Syracuse, Oneida and Herkimer County. “We have to ask whether we’re going to serve 500 patients or serve 3,000, and whether we’re going to lose or gain money or resources,” said Ariglio. “It [becomes a question of] ‘Where can we serve the greatest number of people?’”

Mother’s Day has a long, intriguing history Continued from Page 12 tions in Europe and England gave way to the spread of Christianity, Hilaria celebrations became part of Laetare Sunday—the fourth Sunday of Lent in the Christian liturgical calendar (the 40 days of fasting preceding Easter Sunday). Early Christians in England initially used the day to honor the Virgin Mary, Mother of Christ and the church in which they were baptized, which they knew as their “Mother Church.” This place of worship would be decorated with jewels, flowers and other offerings. In the 17th Century, a clerical decree in England broadened the celebration from one focused on the church and the Virgin Mary, to include real mothers, referring to the occasion as Mothering Day. Mothering Day became an especially compassionate holiday toward the working classes of England. During this Lenten Sunday, servants and trade workers were allowed to travel back Page 14

•

to their towns of origin to visit their families. Mothering Day also provided a reprieve from the fasting and penance of Lent. Families across England enjoyed a family feast while mothers were presented with cakes and flowers. When the first English settlers came to America, they discontinued the tradition of Mothering Day. While the British holiday would live on, the American Mother’s Day would be invented—with an entirely new history— centuries later. One explanation for the settlers’ discontinuation of Mothering Day was that they just didn’t have time. They lived under harsh conditions and were forced to work long hours in order to survive. Another possibility, however, is that Mothering Day conflicted with their Puritan ideals. Fleeing England to practice a more conservative Christianity without being persecuted, the pilgrims ignored the more secular holidays, focusing instead on a no-frills

IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • May 2013

devotion to God. For example, even holidays such as Christmas and Easter were more somber occasions for the pilgrims, usually taking place in a church that was stripped of all extraneous ornamentation.

U.S. government adoption

In 1908, a U.S. senator from Nebraska, Elmer Burkett, proposed making Mother’s Day a national holiday at the request of the Young Men’s Christian Association. The proposal was defeated, but by 1909 46 states were holding Mother’s Day services as well as parts of Canada and Mexico. Anna Jarvis quit working and devoted herself full time to the creation of Mother’s Day, endlessly petitioning state governments, business leaders, women’s groups, churches and other institutions and organizations. She finally convinced the World’s Sunday School Association to back her, a key influence over state legislators and Congress.

In 1912, West Virginia became the first state to officially recognize Mother’s Day, and in 1914 President Woodrow Wilson signed it into national observance, declaring the second Sunday in May as Mother’s Day. When the U.S. Congress approved Mother’s Day in 1914, it was designated for the second Sunday in May and required that the president proclaim the holiday every year shortly prior to its commencement. A recent example of a presidential Mother’s Day proclamation can be seen here. Indeed, within the U.S., Mother’s Day continues to be highly commercialized. The National Retail Foundation estimates that Mother’s Day is a $16 billion industry. Florists see their highest sales in May. U.S. restaurants claim that it is the busiest day of the year. Happy Mother’s Day! • Malissa Allen is a staff writer for Mohawk Valley In Good Health.

Healthy in Herkimer Countywide initiative geared to modify unhealthy lifestyle choices By Patricia J. Malin

rom building playgrounds, expanding walking trails, mapping recreational opportunities, to starting up farmer’s markets, many communities throughout Herkimer County are taking small yet practical steps to foster a healthier lifestyle for local residents. Herkimer County HealthNet presented grant money and incentive awards to community leaders and honored volunteers at its second annual Creating Healthy Places recognition luncheon at Francesca’s Banquets and Catering in Ilion recently. “Herkimer County HealthNet is a wonderful program that helps to create a lifestyle that might not be offered otherwise,” said U.S. Rep. Richard Hanna (R-Barneveld), the keynote speaker at the luncheon. He cited statistics about the increasing prevalence of diabetes and obesity nationwide and in New York state. “Healthy opportunities are available for everyone,” he said. He thanked volunteers “who make a difference ... helping others understand how to live a healthier lifestyle.” Adam Hutchinson, executive director of Herkimer County HealthNet, welcomed Hanna to the luncheon. “His leadership on the transportation and infrastructure committee and Northeast agriculture caucus aligns with the activities and initiatives that we are working on here in Herkimer County in an effort to combat obesity, Type 2 diabetes and other chronic diseases,” Hutchinson said. Hanna told the audience he’s always maintained a healthy lifestyle, then remarked, “I’ve had good luck, but it’s also my misfortune, perhaps, to be married to a vegetarian.”

Creating Healthy Places in Herkimer County is funded by a five-year, $175,000 grant from the state Department of Health and administered by Herkimer County HealthNet. Adopting Healthy Habits targets healthy eating habits and increased activity to prevent childhood obesity and Type 2 diabetes. This is the second year Herkimer County has administered grant money. Hutchinson said the grants and awards allow groups to move “from a startup phase, more into an enhancement phase.” Hanna said the median age in Herkimer County is 55. Meanwhile, few young people choose to stay in their hometowns unless “we give them the right reasons” to stay. He complimented Alison Swartz, grant Hutchinson coordinator for Creating Healthy Places, for developing this program to help Herkimer County residents stay healthy while thanking the volunteers for their hard work in following through on projects that enhance the well-being of the entire community. HealthNet presented mini-grants to four municipalities who built or made improvements to community fitness trails and playgrounds: the Town of Ohio Municipal Fitness Trail; Little Falls School District’s Benton Hall Academy Playground; Town of Russia’s Get Fit Nature Trails; and Town of Webb/CAP-21: Waterfront Recreation & Revitalization Program.

KIDS Corner Most pre-packaged meals, snacks for toddlers: too much salt

early 75 percent of commercial pre-packaged meals and savory snacks for toddlers are high in sodium, according to research presented at the American Heart Association’s Epidemiology and Prevention/Nutrition, Physical Activity and Metabolism 2013 Scientific Sessions.

Jim Parker demonstrates how he makes maple syrup from the trees on his family farm in Ilion. The playground groups received $10,000 each and the communities who developed trails received a grant of $10,500. “We received double the nominations this year for mini-grants and incentives,” said Swartz. “We had 12 applications.”

Healthy incentives

Incentive awards at $5,000 each went to the village of Cold Brook for its playground foot bridge project; the village of Frankfort’s hilltop playground safety lighting program; town of Ohio’s municipal ice skating program-winter recreation project; town of Webb, town of Webb Union Free School District, CAP-21 & WARDA for town-wide recreational improvements. Volunteers were recognized for starting or expanding farmers’ markets in Dolgeville, Ilion, Little Falls, Mohawk, Old Forge, Richfield Springs, West Winfield, and two in Herkimer, including the Herkimer Early Bird Farmers’ Market at Aubuchon Hardware. Jim Parker, who runs the Ilion Farmers’ Market year-round at his Baby food was categorized as intended for children less than 1 year old, and toddler food was categorized as intended for children between the ages of 1 and 3. A product was defined as high in sodium if it had more than 210 mg of sodium per serving. Toddler meals had significantly higher amounts of sodium than baby meals, and the amount of sodium in some of the toddler meals was as high as 630 mg per serving – about 40 percent of the 1,500 mg daily limit recommended by the American Heart Association. The foods with the most sodium were savory snacks and meals for toddlers. “Our concern is the possible longterm health risks of introducing high levels of sodium in a child’s diet, because high blood pressure, as well as a

In the first study to look at the sodium content in U.S. baby and toddler foods, researchers compared the sodium content per serving of 1,115 products for babies and toddlers using data on major and private label brands compiled by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC).

family’s apple farm on state Route 51, has a personal interest in maintaining a healthy lifestyle and helping others stay healthy. Nine years ago, he suffered a heart attack. In 2004, Parker had a pacemaker implanted in his chest. He then consulted with a dietitian about how to adhere to a healthy diet. “I eat no meat except for turkey, chicken and fish,” he said. However, he joked that he tasted the chocolate-covered bacon that was sold by one of the vendors at the Ilion Farmers’ Market. Four convenience and small grocery stores received recognition for implementing displays about nutrition and giving their customers access to more healthy food: Big M (Dolgeville); Haver’s Nice N Easy (Poland); Melrose Market (Frankfort) and The Country Store (town of Salisbury). Swartz said HealthNet provided signage to show the location of farmers’ markets, while Jill Turner, an educator from Cornell Cooperative Extension, presented food demonstrations at the convenience and grocery stores.

preference for salty foods may develop early in life. The less sodium in an infant’s or toddler’s diet, the less he or she may want it when older,” said Joyce Maalouf, lead author and fellow at the National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta. Consuming excessive amounts of sodium has been linked to the development of high blood pressure in scientific studies. “Parents and other caregivers can read the nutrition facts labels on baby and toddler foods, to choose the healthiest options for their child,” Maalouf said. The American Heart Association recommends limiting sodium consumption to less than 1500 mg a day.

Advertise in In Good Health call 315-749-7070 today! May 2013 •

IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper

•

Page 15

CALENDAR of Be vigilant with Ace’s Angle

HEALTH EVENTS

Continued from Page 2

May 5

Have you ever considered The Third Option? The Third Option — a support group for married couples — meets at 6:30 p.m. every other Sunday at The Good News Center, 10475 Cosby Manor Road, Utica. The next meeting will be May 5. For more information, contact Andrea, program coordinator, at 315-735-6210 ext. 228, andrea@thegoodnewscenter.org or visit www.thegoodnewscenter.org.

May 8

FSLH presents stroke support group Faxton St. Luke’s Healthcare in Utica will host a stroke support group presentation at 6 p.m. May 8. The presentation on the healing benefits of yoga will be in the Soggs Room at St. Luke’s Home in the Center for Rehabilitation and Continuing Care Services, 1650 Champlin Ave., Utica. The presentation will discuss how yoga benefits the mind, body and spirit, and feature a yoga demonstration that can be done while sitting in a chair. For more information, call 315-6248779.

May 9

SDMG doc to present ‘Diabetes Update 2013’ Gunnar Anderson will present “Diabetes Update 2013,” a patient education program, at 5:30 p.m. May 9 in Education Room B at Slocum-Dickson Medical Group, 1729 Burrstone Road, New Hartford. The event is free and open to the Anderson public. Registration is recommended by calling 315-798-1885. Anderson is board certified in internal medicine as well as endocrinology and metabolism by the American Board of Internal Medicine.

May 10

FSLH offers free hearing screenings In honor of Better Hearing and Speech Month in May, Faxton St. Luke’s Healthcare in Utica will offer free hearing screenings throughout the month at the Regional Rehabilitation Center at the Faxton Campus, 1676 Sunset Ave., Utica. Adults and children 4 years of age or older are welcome. Screenings will be held from 1–5 p.m. May 10; from 8 a.m. to noon May 14; from 8 a.m. to noon May 24; and Page 16

•

from 1–5:30 p.m. May 30. One in six Americans has a hearing, speech or language problem. To register, call the audiology department at FSLH’s Regional Rehabilitation Center at 315-624-4600.

May 14

GriefShare: Deal with the mourning process GriefShare meets from 6-7:30 p.m. every other Tuesday at The Good News Center, 10475 Cosby Manor Road, Utica. The next meeting is May 14. GriefShare is a faith-based support group. For more information, contact Andrea, program coordinator, at 315-7356210, andrea@thegoodnewscenter.org or visit www.thegoodnewscenter.org.

May 17

Hospice offers ‘Grief in the Workplace’ conference “Grief in the Workplace” will be presented by Hospice & Palliative Care and sponsored by Dimbleby, Friedel, Williams & Edmunds Funeral Homes. The conference will be held from 8:30 a.m. to noon May 31 at Hart’s Hill Inn in Whitesboro. Grief following a death costs American businesses $37.5 billion yearly. This workshop is intended for administrators, human resource professionals, managers, supervisors, support staff and other interested parties to further their understanding of the hidden costs of grief and learn ways to mitigate the effects of grief. To attend this event, register on line at Hospicegrief.eventbrite.com. The cost is $55 per person. Registration deadline is May 17.

May 18

Drawing to aid cause of ALS of Utica ALS of Utica’s luckiest fan raffle is back. One winner will receive the $13,000 prize package: VIP suite at Yankee Stadium for 28 people to watch the New York Yankees play the Boston Red Sox on June 1. The prize includes luxury bus transportation, food and beverage, plus $2,000 cash. Raffle ticket prices are $15 each or three for$30. Tickets can be purchased online at www.ALSutica.org. The winning ticket will be drawn May 18 at the ALS Walk & Run at SUNYIT. All proceeds stay local to help families in Oneida and Herkimer counties battling amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, also known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease. ALS is a fatal neuromuscular disease. There is no cure. For more information, contact ALS of Utica at 315-768-8502 or visit its website at www.ALSUtica.org.

IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • May 2013

By Amylynn Pastorella

skin cancer

New phone app can alert you to danger

s summer is approaching, many of us are looking forward to taking advantage of the sun and great weather. Sometimes by staying in the sun, the rays can take a toll on our bodies. Many people are or become at risk for skin cancer. If you are a technology buff and really love your iPhone, now it can help you stay healthy. The University of Michigan Health Systems developed a new free application that allows users to use their phone’s camera to check for early signs of skin cancer. The app, called UMSk- Pastorella inCheck, works by creating a photographic baseline of a man’s skin. Should suspicious moles or other skin lesions be spotted, the app can walk users through a self-exam. UMSkinCheck even sends automatic reminders so users can monitor changes to skin lesion over time. Apart from providing other functions, your phone can now be your e-doctor as well. If this application indicator isn’t enough to show results, the app also calculates your individual cancer risk using personal data input. A regular skin cancer self-exam is used to identify suspicious moles or lesions that may be cancer or growths that may develop into skin cancer (pre-cancerous). Individuals who are at a high risk of skin cancer are encouraged to perform frequent skin self-exams and to have full body photographic surveys taken by professional photographers. With UMSkinCheck, patients will be able to complete a full skin cancer self-exam and survey, track and create a history of moles and lesions all through a handheld mobile device. If anything UMSkinCheck recognizes is suspicious, info and pictures can be brought to a dermatologist’s attention. Technology is making it easier to keep us healthy. Think you may have some questionable moles or patches of skin, yet still not making an appointment to the dermatologist to have them checked for cancer? Download this free application to your iPhone and see the results you may need to know.

How to kick RLS

Since Mike Celeste was a teenager, he has had periodic sensations in his legs in which he has to move around and walk off the pain.

“I have to either go to bed or get up and walk around. Though walking around is only a temporary fix; in 15 or so minutes it comes back,” said Celeste. When this symptom happened at home, Celeste, 30, of Syracuse, could walk around to alleviate the pain but it was difficult to deal with when out somewhere. “So far it hasn’t affected my work, but taking a lap around the cubicles helps. Recently at home, symptoms have been mild because I’m constantly moving around with my newborn son,” said Celeste. Ever feel you have to keep moving around to prevent pain or constant sensation from hurting your legs? You, along with Celeste, could be suffering from symptoms of restless leg syndrome. If this could be you, you may have feelings in your legs such as creeping, itching, pulling, tugging or gnawing. Symptoms could also involve arms and other body parts and worsen when resting. According to Georgi Bell, executive director of the RLS Foundation, restless leg syndrome is a lifetime condition without a permanent cure or could occur solely due to a secondary cause such as iron deficiency, pregnancy or kidney failure. “About 10 percent of adults in North America and Europe suffer from RLS and approximately 2 percent experience symptoms of such severity and frequency that they need treatment,” said Bell. While there is no specific treatment for RLS, research is being done through the RLS Foundation to help patients ease their pain. The RLS Foundation has supported a research grant program since 1997 and the National Institute of Health has supported research to increase the understanding of the causes of RLS. While many patients concur that they have difficulty in falling or staying sleep, moving legs to stop symptomatic pain seems to be the common cure. RSL can interrupt sleep that may impact work, relationships, and health. If you are connecting to this story and think you may have the abovementioned symptoms, consult a physician. For more information about RLS, visit www.rls.org. • Amy “Ace” Pastorella is a staff writer for Mohawk Valley In Good Health. Want to ask a health-related question to “Ace?” Email her at alpastorella@gmail.com.

Story idea? Call 749-7070 today!

H ealth News Excellus medical director reappointed Frank J. Dubeck, chief medical officer and vice president for medical policy and clinical editing, Excellus BlueCross BlueShield, has been reappointed as the BlueCross BlueShield Association representative on the editorial panel of the American Medical Association’s current procedural terminology codebook. CPT codes Dubeck are the vocabulary physicians use to report their services to insurance companies. The editorial panel reviews code changes to improve claim processing efficiency and when breakthroughs in medical practices become available. Dubeck has served on the panel since 2009. A nationally recognized expert on clinical coding and editing, Dubeck has been chief medical officer for Excellus BlueCross BlueShield’s Utica region since 1998. An internist with 20 years of clinical experience, Dubeck practiced locally at Slocum Dickson Medical Group prior to joining Excellus BlueCross BlueShield.

Longtime chef manager bids farewell Earl John Reed, chef manager at The Presbyterian Residential Community in New Hartford, is retiring from his position after 18 years of service. Staff and residents celebrated with Reed at his retirement party recently. Connie Guarascio, Presbyterian Residential Community administrator, says Reed’s warm smile and tireless efforts made him well-loved at the facility. “Earl is that rare person who made those around him feel special. I believe his love and enthusiasm for his work and the people he served are the perfect model for any of us, a testament to a career of service. We wish him the very best in this next chapter of his life,” she said. The Presbyterian Home for Central New York is a member of the Presbyterian Homes & Services’ family of services, which also includes the Presbyterian Residential Community, Presbyterian Homes Foundation, The Meadows at Middle Settlement, and Preswick Glen independent senior living community. For more information, call 315-7249300.

Foundation announces new board members The Presbyterian Homes Foundation has announced newly elected members to its board of trustees, including a new president and vice president.

The new board members for 2013 are Alex Carbone, Paul Pimpinella, and Richard Widdicombe. Newly elected officers are vice president Stuart Wattles and president Edward Ratazzi. Other current board members include Daniel Freytag, Ward Jones, Brian Bluff and Col. James G. Hill. Carbone Carbone is executive VP variable operations at Carbone Auto Group and is a graduate of the NADA Dealer Candidacy Academy. Pimpinella, a graduate of Western New England College School of Law, is managing partner and principal at Compson & Pimpinella, PLLC. Widdicombe is a retired university library director and a graduPimpinella ate of Syracuse University. The Presbyterian Homes Foundation manages funds donated to Presbyterian Homes & Services through planned giving, grants, donations and other sources. The foundation, run by the trustees, distributes funds as needed throughout the Presbyterian Homes & Services’ family of services. Widdicombe For more information, contact Lenora D’Apice, director of development, Presbyterian Homes Foundation, at 315-624-9972 or LDApice@presbyterianhome.com.

VHS selects employee of quarter Melissa Miles of Valley Health Services’ adult day health care program in Herkimer was selected as the VHS Employee of the First Quarter of 2013. Miles joined the staff at VHS in June of 2003. The co-worker who nominated Miles said, “Melissa joined VHS in June of 2003, but the adult day health care program was Miles fortunate to get her in November of 2007. Melissa exhibits a high level of professionalism as a CNA. She takes pride in her work and tries to instill her work ethic onto her co-work-

FSLH’s 2013 Stomp Out Cancer Telethon raises more than $102,000 The Faxton St. Luke’s Healthcare Foundation and The Regional Cancer Center in Utica recently announced its annual Stomp Out Cancer Telethon raised more than $102,000. The 15th annual Stomp Out Cancer Telethon was broadcast live from The Regional Cancer Center at FSLH on WKTV NewsChannel 2. “The support of this community is amazing,” said Cynthia Brandreth, chairperson of the annual fund raising event. Above, the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 43 and The National Electrical Contractors Association present a check for $5,000 to the Stomp Out Cancer Telethon. Celebrating the occasion are, back row from left, Symeon Tsoupelis, telethon co-host; John Amicucci, NECA representative from Oneida Electrical Contractors, Inc.; Kristen Copeland from WKTV; and Pat Costello, president of the IBEW Local 43. From row from left are Cathy Brough, Brenda Plummer and Lois Newman, telethon volunteers from FSLH. ers. She is always willing to help others and goes above and beyond to make sure her registrants’ needs are met.” The VHS employee of the quarter program recognizes the outstanding performance VHS employees. Employees submit nominations and the winner is entitled to a designated parking spot for three months, a gift certificate, recognition in local papers and the facility newsletter and becomes eligible to participate in the employee of the year program.

VHS hosts human services intern Rebecca Loring of Little Falls is completing a human services internship at Valley Health Services in Herkimer as part of her Herkimer County Community College curriculum. She holds a degree in early childhood and is working toward a Bachelor of Science degree in social work. Her 15-week internship at VHS requires Loring to work three days a week for three hours each day in the social services department as well as with registrants of the Herkimer and Little Falls Adult Day Health Care program. The majority of Loring’s previous May 2013 •

career was spent working with special needs children. “This is my first experience working with seniors in the social services role,” she said. “I have had personal experience with family members in a nursing home and I find the VHS staff to be compassionate toward the residents and Loring the response time to family inquiries to be immediate. Staff members treat these residents like family.” The HCCC internship requires Loring to participate with resident and registrant assessments, care conferences and familiarize herself with admission paperwork.

VHS welcomes new PT assistant Rachel Petkovsek recently joined the rehabilitation staff at Valley Health

Continued on Page 18

IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper

•

Page 17

H ealth News Continued from Page 17 Services in Herkimer as a physical therapy assistant. A graduate of Herkimer County Community College, Petkovsek served one of her college internships at VHS. Upon graduation from HCCC, Petkovsek took a job in the Albany area and then returned to the Mohawk Valley where she worked Petkovsek in Utica for over five years. In describing her new position at VHS, Petkovsek says, “I love having the opportunity to help someone every single day. Compared to the larger facilities where I have worked, I am really enjoying knowing all of the residents and employees in the homelike atmosphere at VHS.” Petkovsek resides in Dolgeville with her husband, Adam, and 7month-old daughter, Lyla.

MV Down Syndrome Group awards available The Mohawk Valley Down Syndrome Support and Awareness Group, a program of Upstate Cerebral Palsy, is looking forward to the opportunity to support young people living in Oneida and Herkimer counties in pursuing their life goals. Monetary awards for $321 each will be given to up to three graduating seniors who fit the following criteria: an individual with Down syndrome who is pursuing educational or job training opportunities beyond high school; an individual who is pursuing a junior college, undergraduate, or a graduate degree in a disability-related field; and an individual who has a sibling with Down syndrome and is pursuing a junior college, undergraduate, or graduate degree. The number 321 is symbolic of the third copy of the 21st chromosome in people with Down syndrome. Applications must be postmarked by April 30. Visit upstatecp.org under affiliated programs and Mohawk Valley Down Syndrome and Awareness Group to download an application, or call 315724-6907 ext. 2278.

FSLH makes medical staff announcement Vladan Obradovic has joined the bariatric surgery program at Faxton St. Luke’s Healthcare. He is affiliated with William A. Graber’s bariatric practice in New Hartford. Obradovic earned his degree in nursing in Krusevac, Serbia, Yugoslavia. He received his medical degree and postgraduate master’s degree from the University of Belgrade School of Medicine in Belgrade, Serbia, Yugoslavia. Page 18

•

Boilermaker wheelchair challenger given new racing chair Excellus Blue Cross Blue Shield presented a new racing wheelchair to 2012 Boilermaker wheelchair challenger Devon Henry of Herkimer recently at Sitrin Medical Rehabilitation Center, Tilden Avenue, New Hartford. Shown from left are Boilermaker president Tim Reed; Excellus Blue Cross Blue Shield Regional President Eve Van de Wal; Henry; Boilermaker wheelchair division coordinator Gary Roback; Boilermaker race director Jim Stasaitis; Boilermaker committee member Kevin Copeland; Boilermaker public relations director Mary McEnroe, and Sitrin STARS coordinator Marc DePerno. The wheelchair challenge is an initiative to promote health and well being for individuals with disabilities. The challenge requires participants to complete the Boilermaker in less than two hours and 15 minutes while using a standard wheelchair. If they succeed, they receive a custom-ﬁtted racing wheelchair valued at $2,500. Henry is a member of Sitrin’s STARS (Success Through Recreation and Sports) program, and completed the challenge in 1:42:36. He completed a fellowship in digestive system surgery at the Institute for Digestive Diseases, First Surgical Clinic University, Clinical Center of Serbia, Belgrade, where he also became a staff surgeon at the clinical department for hepatobiliopancreatic surgery. Obradovic completed a residency and fellowship in bariatObradovic ric and minimally invasive surgery at Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, Pa. Obradovic is a member of the American College of Surgeons and the Society of American Gastrointestinal and Endoscopic Surgeons. FSLH is the No. 1 ranked bariatric hospital in New York state for 2011 and 2012 and is among the top 5 percent of hospitals in the nation for its bariatric surgery program with a 5-star rating by

IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • May 2013

HealthGrades.

FSLH recognizes volunteer spirit In honor of National Healthcare Volunteer Week recently, Faxton St. Luke’s Healthcare in Utica recognized the many active volunteers who donate their time, energy and talents to the organization and encourage others to start helping within their communities. In 2012, FSLH’s volunteers contributed nearly 60,000 hours of service to patients, residents and families. That is equivalent to the work of 30 full-time employees, which saves the hospital more than $1.3 million per year. “I bear witness everyday to our volunteers’ extraordinary dedication and we are grateful for each and every one of them,” said Jerry Plows, assistant director of volunteer services and guest relations. “The most amazing thing about our volunteers is that they make the time and they have the heart to care for our patients, residents and families.”

During the special week, volunteers were offered discount coupons to the hospital gift shop and participated in prize drawings. Volunteers who have reached milestones in their hours of service will be recognized at an annual recognition event in May. For more information about volunteer opportunities at FSLH, call Sue Warwick, director of volunteer services and guest relations, at 315-624-6052.

FSLH makes staff announcement Lauren Gallimo has been named manager of social services-admissions for St. Luke’s Home at Faxton St. Luke’s Healthcare in Utica. St. Luke’s Home is a 202-bed nursing home located on the St. Luke’s Campus of FSLH. The home has a 40-bed sub-acute rehabilitation unit as well as an adult day health care program and is part of the new center

Continued on Page 19

H ealth News Continued from Page 18 for rehabilitation and continuing care services. Prior to joining FSLH, Gallimo was director of resident and family services for Van Rensselaer Manor Nursing Home in Troy and was a caseworker for the Neighborhood Center-School Partnership for Youth in Utica. Gallimo Gallimo received her Bachelor of Arts in psychology from Utica College and her Master of Social Work from the University at Albany.

FSLH selects leader in clinical nutrition Krista O. Schlesiger has been named director of clinical nutrition for Faxton St. Luke’s Healthcare in Utica. Schlesiger is responsible for the oversight of clinical nutrition in acute and longterm care, the regional dialysis and cancer centers, the Central New York diabetes education program and outpatient nutritional counseling. Schlesiger’s previous position Schlesiger with FSLH was as a clinical dietitian covering acute and long-term care. Schlesiger received her Associate of Applied Science in hotel/restaurant management from Broome Community College in Binghamton and her Bachelor of Science in dietetics from the SUNY Oneonta. She completed an accredited dietetic internship and graduate coursework at Stony Brook University.

Staff changes made at FSLH Faxton St. Luke’s Healthcare in Utica recently made the following staff announcements. • Nancy Borden has been named executive director of The Regional Cancer Center at FSLH. Borden is responsible for oversight of radiation oncology, tumor registry, clinical trials, Tri-County QUITS Tobacco Cessation Center, palliative care, outpatient infusion, cancer Borden program administration and cancer services which include integrative medicine and the breast care program.

Borden’s previous position with FSLH was as director of radiation oncology, a position she held for more than 15 years. Borden also served as the liaison between 21st Century Oncology and the healthcare system. Borden received her Associate of Applied Science in radiation therapy from SUNY Upstate Medical University in Syracuse, her Bachelor of Science in health services management from SUNYIT Utica/Rome in Marcy, and her Master of Business Administration in healthcare management from American InterContinental University in Schaumburg, Ill. • Laurie Conover has been named oncology/palliative care social worker for The Regional Cancer Center at FSLH. Prior to joining FSLH, Conover held the positions of oncology/inpatient hospital social worker for Bassett Hospital in Cooperstown, service coordinator for Central New York Developmental Services Office, director of social work/wellness program coordinator for Senior Network Health, LLC, and consultant for Oneida County Department of Conover Mental Health, all in Utica. Conover received her Associate of Applied Science in human services and counseling from Mohawk Valley Community College in Utica, her Bachelor of Social Work in social welfare and her Master of Social Work in social welfare from the University at Albany in Albany.

LFH breakfast club supports fund Little Falls Hospital offers an incentive program for employees that benefits the hospital. The LFH’s Breakfast Club honors those employees who make a contribution of $100 or more to the hospital’s annual fund. This year’s breakfast club was held at the Beardslee Castle. “Due to employee’s dedication, support and commitment, LFH has been making great strides. Our programs and services would not be possible without the hard work, skills and assistance of staff members. This shows that employees believe in LFH’s mission and vision by showing their support,” says Kate Reese, director of community relations and development. Little Falls Hospital has over 29 percent of employees who make a donation of $100 or more.

LFH employee awarded for ‘going the extra mile’ Robin Swartz, emergency department nurse, was surprised recently when Little Falls Hospital PresidentCEO Michael Ogden and Marlene Little, human resources senior director, recognized her as a GEM (going the extra mile) at work.

Judy and Harrison J. Hummel, III are the 2013 Magic of Herkimer honorees.

VHS to honor Hummel family at Magic of Herkimer

he 11th annual Magic of Herkimer is honoring the Hummel family of Mohawk, the owners of Hummel’s Office Plus, according to event planners at Valley Health Services. “Chip and Judy have been supporters of the Magic of Herkimer since its inception. In recent years, Hummel’s Office Plus has also sponsored the annual VHS BBQ and supported our Stanley events,” said Lisa M. Betrus, CEO-administrator of VHS. The entire Hummel family—including Chip’s mother, Betty Hummel, Harrison IV, Justin and Solace, the fourth generation currently managing the business—recently chose to support VHS through the donoradvised Hummel family fund of the

The GEM award recognizes staff for going above and beyond their typical job duties and making a significant difference by improving the quality of health for those it serves. “Robin is the most extraordinary person I’ve ever met. As a nurse she is phenomenal. She is always positive and Swartz is a people person,” said Jean Guiney, nurse manager of the emergency department. May 2013 •

Community Foundation of Herkimer & Oneida Counties, Inc. They purchased a Triton spinal decompression unit for the VHS physical therapy department. “The patronage of the Hummel family over the years is the catalyst for the 2013 Magic of Herkimer honor,” Betrus noted. The presenting sponsor is Excellus BlueCross BlueShield. The event takes place from 5–8 p.m. June 2 at Herkimer County Community College to commemorate the Hummel family. Tickets are $40 each or $75 per couple and may be purchased by contacting Peg Scarano at 315-866-3330 ext. 2247 or via email at pscarano@val leyhealthservices.org.

Sitrin dental ofﬁces welcome new patients Sitrin Medical Rehabilitation Center’s dental offices are accepting more insurances and welcoming new patients. Sitrin’s dental offices are fully accessible and are located at 2050 Tilden Ave., New Hartford; 221 Broad St., Oneida; and 295 W. Main St., Ilion. Sitrin can bill the insurance company for those covered by CIGNA, CSEA Plans, Delta Dental, Excellus Family of Plans, Healthplex, and MVP. Sitrin also accepts CareCredit and private pay. For more information, call 1-866274-8746 or visit www.sitrin.com.

IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper

•

Page 19

Golden Years Use it or lose it Seniors: Keep your mind active By Barbara Pierce

“

The day you stop learning is the day you begin decaying,” said Issac Asimov, author and professor. Continuing education maintains and buffers our physical and mental well-being. Keeping the mind active enhances brain cells, improves their connections as you age, and perhaps even delays the onset of Alzheimer’s and the mild cognitive impairments that precede the decline. “Use it or you lose it applies here,” says Dr. Gary Small, director of the UCLA Memory and Aging Research Center and author of “The Memory Prescription.” In fact, one study found that the incidence of Alzheimer’s was 47 percent lower in people who performed mentally challenging activities frequently than in those who did these activities rarely. The key is to give the brain a good workout. “Whatever you choose to do, it shouldn’t be too easy,” says Small. “It should also be fun.” Experts agree that our brain builds new connections in response to the demands placed upon it. A strong reserve will delay the onset of any decline. Seniors in the Mohawk Valley have many opportunities to keep their brains challenged and active through continuing education. Also, continuing education keeps us socially engaged. Going back to school as retirees introduces us to new friends inside and outside the classroom. Enriching one’s social environment also improves the functioning of one’s brain and slows down cognitive decline. Being socially active also slows down the decline in physical functioning that can accompany aging.

Exercise that brain

Seniors in the Mohawk Valley can stimulate their brains and make friends through college classes at no cost, cultural events, free movies, and the use of college libraries and facilities. The Mohawk Valley Institute of Learning in Retirement is a special learning community established within the SUNY Institute of Technology to help meet the educational needs and interests of retired persons. MVILR offers a variety of noncredit courses, taught by volunteers who teach subjects they enjoy and want to share with others---learning strictly for the joy of learning. No grades, no exams, no homework. From social sciences to the arts, philosophy to science and personal growth, course topics have included: Alexander the Great, Shakespeare, bridge, Broadway theatre, astronomy, snow shoeing, psychology, MahJong and jazz. “We have a marvelous opportunity to learn for the sake of learning,” said MVILR student Geri Speich of Barneveld. “The program challenges your mind, and you can make friends. We love the program.” She has especially liked classes on birding, weather, glaciers and several Page 20

•

classes on cultural diversity. “The subjects run the gamut; there is something for everyone,” she said. “We would like the community to know we’re here,” added Ann Maher, interim administrator. “We are open year around.”

“Come to the MVILR suite on the SUNYIT Campus, meet us, have a cup of coffee with us, get to know us,” invites Maher. MVILR is a membership program. In June, the membership drive will begin for the 2013-2014 year. Members pay an annual membership fee that entitles them to take three, eight-week courses per semester. For more information, see www. sunyit.edu/mvilr, or contact 315-7927192. Herkimer County Community College, in Herkimer, a two-year community college, offers non-credit classes to Herkimer County residents over the age of 70. Senior residents are eligible for a Millenium Card, explained Rebecca Ruffing, director of public relations.

With the Millenium Card, they can take non-credit classes, use the library, the fitness center, the pool, the indoor track, and the nature trail. HCCC offers classes in the arts, business, music and media, computer and technology, criminal justice and law, education, healthcare, and liberal arts and sciences. Utica College, a private university, has a long history in Utica. It has been a presence since the 1930s, when Syracuse University began offering extension courses in the Utica area. Utica College invites seniors—defined as those over 65—to attend classes at no cost, said Christine Leogrande, director of media relations. “Also, many senior citizens take advantage of our cultural events,” added Leogrande.

SERVICE

Staff+Success

Outstanding SERVICE Exceptional STAFF & Remarkable SUCCESS…

OUR SPECIALTIES INCLUDE: • Pulmonary Rehab Program • Heart Failure Program • Tracheostomy Care • Orthopedic Injuries and Post-Surgical Care • Post Surgical Wound Care

This is what you can expect from The Pines at Utica Center for Nursing & Rehabilitation Superb clinical and rehabilitation services, commitment to personalized programs of care, and private accommodations combine to encourage healthcare and independence. With quality of life as our hallmark, our staff delivers customized care specific to the patient's needs. Our signature Passport Program includes occupational, physical, speech language and respiratory therapies that incorporate the latest techniques and treatments.

1800 Butterfield Avenue Utica, NY 13501 315.797.3570 • F. 315.368.0366 www.PinesUtica.com www.PassportRehab.com Follow us on Facebook: www.Facebook.com/PinesUtica

Call today to schedule a tour or pre-book a stay prior to surgery

IN GOOD HEALTH – Mohawk Valley’s Healthcare Newspaper • May 2013

315.797.3570