Active Seniors by Fox Printing and Digital Publishing

SUMMER 2020 HEALTH CARE GUIDE

EXERCISE AND ENDORPHINS

ABC'S

OF MEDICARE

Game Night Snacks SEEKING

GROUNDCOVER

n u F

IN THE SUMMER

Summer

Local Credits Management ADAM PRESTRIDGE, PUBLISHER

Circulation DIANNE MATHEWS, ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT Editorial MARK ROGERS, MANAGING EDITOR MATT HUTCHESON, STAFF WRITER ANGIE LONG, STAFF WRITER

contents SUMMER

4. GARDENING

Seeking Groundcover? Think Herbs 5. WELLNESS

It's In The Water 6. PETS

Pets and COVID-19

Advertising CHLOE LANGSTON, MARKETING COORDINATOR BRITTANY CLARK, MARKETING CONSULTANT

8. NUTRITION

Distribution TAMMIE MORGAN, DELIVERY DRIVER

11. EXERCISE

103 HICKORY ST. GREENVILLE, AL. 36037 (334) 368-3111

Food For Thought

For The Young At Heart 12. FINANCE

The ABC's of Medicare 14. NATURAL BEAUTY

Whiten Your Smile

Seniors

ACTIVE Executive Publishers H.G. FOX, SR. SUZANNE FOX Managing Editor SUZANNE FOX

Copy Editor CHAD RUIZ Production & Design SUZANNE FOX CLAIRE THOMAS TRA PHAM

15. RECIPE

Cooking For One: Breakfast Sweet Potato 16. RECIPE

Game Night Snacks 18. DIRECTORY

Contributing Writers AMBER AREVALOS MICHELLE FOUCHI ESNEAULT COURTNEY FARNET REBECCA GUTKNECHT JULIE MADDOCK SHIRIN MEHDI KRISTY PODRUCHNY DINA ZELDEN Â© 2020 Jumpstart Publishing, LLC, New Orleans, LA All rights reserved Printed in the USA by Fox Print Services, igofox.com The information contained in Active Seniors is intended for educational purposes only. A reader should never substitute information contained in Active Seniors for the advice of a health care professional. Jumpstart Publishing, LLC and publishers of Active Seniors, do not endorse or promote any of the products or services described in the pages of Active Seniors and the publishers do not verify the accuracy of any claims made in the editorial or advertisements contained in Active Seniors. Readers should not use the information in Active Seniors for diagnosis or treatment of any health problem or for prescription of any medication or other treatment. Readers should consult with a healthcare professional before starting any diet, exercise or supplementation program, before taking any medication, or have or suspect they have a health problem.

Summer

GARDENING

Seeking Groundcover? Think Herbs

partial sun and can grow up to 12 inches. You can let the soil go dry before watering, but give it a bit of lanting herbs in your garden can not extra water after a hot day. only spice up your plate, they can be Mint used as excellent groundcover. Why Do you have a shady spot that needs groundnot grow a beautiful garden that’s cover? Consider planting mint. Corsican mint, also also edible? known as creeping mint, makes a thick mat that can If you have a spot in your yard available handle foot traffic well. Take care with mint—it will that gets full sun, these herbs will be delight- take over your garden when you’re not looking! ed to grow there. You might get inspired to Corsican mint will thrive in moist soil and this tiny make a pizza or perhaps a cup of tea. groundcover will grow up to 1 inch tall. Oregano Let this fragrant group of herbs make every Creeping oregano is an aromatic perennial step through your garden memorable. Pruning in that grows up to 6 inches and will gift you your backyard can become a foraging adventure seasonally with small white flowers. Feel free through your own enchanted garden. to prune your oregano down to whatever height you’d like—it’s hardy and doesn’t mind the trim. Take care not to overwater. Thyme Creeping thyme also thrives in a warm climate with full sun and doesn’t require frequent watering. Its stunning purple flowers will look wonderful between stepping stones and anywhere else you’d like to add a pop of low-maintenance color. You can also keep creeping thyme to 2 inches high, though it can stretch up to 10 inches if left to its own devices! Rosemary Rosemary would complete this low-maintenance Italian herb garden. The same rules for sun and water apply to creeping rosemary. Well-drained sandy soil will keep this herb content to spread through your garden. You’ll love its delicate, light purple bloom. Chamomile The apple-scented Roman chamomile will add a touch of enchantment to your garden with its white petals accented by a yellow center. This relaxing herb will grow in full to

By Kristy Podruchny

WELLNESS

IT'S IN THE WATER By Michelle Fouchi Esneault

ore than 60 percent of the human body is made up of water. It’s necessary to regulate body temperature and keep bodily functions working the way they need to. Medical professionals recommend that you consume at least 65 ounces of fluids each day and to drink even more during warm weather. Staying hydrated is important to your health, no matter how old you are, but, as you age, you become more susceptible to changes in the balance of fluid in your body. According to “The American Journal of Nursing,” dehydration is a frequent cause of hospitalization in people over 65. There are many reasons including poor appetite, medications, temperature, lack of mobility, and the inability of your body to hold water which contrib-

utes to a lack of thirst. By the time you are thirsty, essential fluids could be dangerously low, leading to dry mouth, decreased urination, headache, sleeplessness, irritability, cramps, loss of balance, and weakness, low blood pressure, a rapid pulse and sometimes seizures and death. Hydrated seniors experience fewer falls, better rehab results and lower rates of fatal coronary heart disease. The National Institute on Aging states that eating a balanced diet of plenty of water-filled fruits and vegetables such as cucumbers, tomatoes, watermelon, grapes, oranges and cantaloupe can count towards your fluid goals. Other options include low-sodium broth, popsicles, milkshakes and smoothies. If you really don’t like the taste of water, you can opt for flavored waters, half water half

Staying hydrated is important to your health, no matter how old you are juice or fruit-infused water. Limit beverages and foods that contribute to dehydration such as alcohol, high sodium and caffeinated drinks. The simplest way to stay hydrated is a plain glass of water but even that isn’t so easy any more. If you look in any supermarket, there is an entire aisle dedicated to different types of water. One, alkaline water, which has a high mineral content, promises all sorts of benefits including increased hydration, but is it true? It depends who you talk to. Some believe that drinking alkaline

water, which is less acidic than tap water, can help you stay better hydrated. One study from the University of Montana found that drinking alkaline water did increase hydration after a high-intensity workout, but for the average moderately sedentary person, they found the impact to be relatively small. The Mayo Clinic found that though the ionized water can be beneficial for some conditions, plain tap water is usually sufficient for hydration in most people.

Summer

PETS

s t Pe

AND COVID-19

Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses. Some cause illness in people, and others cause illness in certain types of animals. Some coronaviruses that infect animals can sometimes be spread to people, but this is rare. At this time, there is no evidence that animals play a significant role in spreading the virus that causes COVID-19. Based on the limited information available to date, the risk of animals spreading COVID-19 to people is considered to be low. We are still learning about this virus, but it appears that it can spread from people to animals in some situations. CDC is aware of a small number of pets, including cats and dogs, reported to be infected with the virus that causes COVID-19, mostly after close contact with people with COVID-19. Treat pets as you would other human family membersâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;do not let pets interact with people or animals outside the household. If a person inside the household becomes sick, isolate that person from everyone else, including pets. This is a rapidly evolving situation and information will be updated as it becomes available. For more information: https://www.cdc. gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/faq.html#COVID-19-and-Animals

RISK OF ANIMALS SPREADING THE VIRUS THAT CAUSES COVID-19 TO PEOPLE The virus that causes COVID-19 spreads mainly from person to person through respiratory droplets from coughing, sneezing and talking. Recent studies show that people who are infected but do not have symptoms likely also play a role in the spread of COVID-19. At this time, there is no evidence that animals play a significant role in spreading the virus that causes COVID-19. Based on the limited information available to date, the risk of animals spreading COVID-19 to people is considered to be low. RISK OF PEOPLE SPREADING THE VIRUS THAT CAUSES COVID-19 TO ANIMALS CDC is aware of a small number of pets, including dogs and cats, reported to be infected with the virus that causes COVID-19, mostly after close contact with people with COVID-19. Only a few of the animals reported to be positive showed signs of illness. We are still learning about this virus, but we know that it originally came from an animal source and is primarily spreading from person-to-person, but it appears that it can spread from people to animals in some situations.

WHAT TO DO IF YOU OWN PETS Until we learn more about how this virus affects animals, treat pets as you would other human family members to protect them from a possible infection. • Do not let pets interact with people or other animals outside the household. • Keep cats indoors when possible to prevent them from interacting with other animals or people. • Walk dogs on a leash, maintaining at least 6 feet (2 meters) from other people and animals. • Avoid dog parks or public places where a large number of people and dogs gather.

kissed or licked, and sharing food or bedding. • If you must care for your pet or be around animals while you are sick, wear a cloth face covering and wash your hands before and after you interact with them. • If you are sick with COVID-19 and your pet becomes sick, do not take your pet to the veterinary clinic yourself. Call your veterinarian and let them know you have been sick with COVID-19. Some veterinarians may offer telemedicine consultations or other plans for seeing sick pets.

PROTECT PETS IF YOU ARE SICK If you are sick with COVID-19 (either suspected or confirmed by a test), you should restrict contact with your pets and other animals, just like you would with people. Until we know more about this virus, people sick with COVID-19 should avoid contact with pets and other animals. • When possible, have another member of your household care for your pets while you are sick. • Avoid contact with your pet including, petting, snuggling, being

STAY HEALTHY AROUND ANIMALS In the United States, there is no evidence that animals are playing a significant role in the spread of COVID-19. Based on the limited information available to date, the risk of animals spreading COVID-19 to people is considered to be low. However, because all animals can carry germs that can make people sick, it’s always a good idea to practice healthy habits around pets and other animals. • Wash your hands after handling animals, their food, waste, or supplies. • Practice good pet hygiene and clean up after pets properly. • Talk to your veterinarian if you have questions about your pet’s health. • Be aware that children 5 years of age and younger, people with weakened immune systems and people 65 years of age and older are more likely to get sick from germs some animals can carry.

All information for this article was taken from the CDC web page: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/animals.html Summer

NUTRITION

FOOD FOR THOUGHT A By Michelle Fouchi Esneault

s we get older, our bodies and minds go through changes that require we take a closer look at what we eat. A healthy diet can help maintain energy, keep your weight in check, lower your risk of chronic health problems and have a big impact on your well-being. A national poll by Research!America finds that the biggest concern Americans have about aging is losing mental ability. Eating a diet containing nutrient-rich foods such as fruit, vegetables, healthy proteins, whole grains, low-fat dairy and healthy fats can protect your brain from damage, support memory and brain development and boost

alertness. Include some of these brain superstars in your diet today.

• Eggs are excellent for brain health. High in vitamins B6, B12, folate and choline, a study by the Oxford Project to investigate memory and aging shows that these vitamins slow mental decline and improve mood and memory.

• Fatty fish such as salmon, trout and sardines are high in omega-3 fatty acids which the “Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry” says not only benefits learning and memory, but also staves off Alzheimer’s disease. The “American Journal of Preventative Medicine” states that regularly eating

baked or broiled fish can increase your brain’s grey matter which controls memory and decision making.

• A study found in the “Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry” states that blueberries can improve brain function due to its high levels of vitamin C, vitamin K and antioxidants.

• Broccoli is also high in fat-soluble vitamin K. According to a study in “Maturitas,” vitamin K is found in high concentrations in the brain, making it vital for all cognitive functions, helping to sharpen memory and ward off dementia.

• Oranges, bell peppers, kiwi and strawberries are chock-full of the powerhouse antioxidant vitamin C which plays a big part in preventing mental decline. An article in “Nutrients” states that the vitamin C in these foods fight the free radicals that damage brain cells and support brain health.

• Both coffee and green tea contain antioxidants that increase alertness, improve your mood, improve memory and focus and reduce depression. An article in “Practical Neurology” magazine states that they can also prevent cognitive decline, reduce the risk of stroke and possibly reduce the risk of Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s.

• Flavonoids make dark chocolate a sweet treat for your brain. The “Neuroscience and Biobehavioral Review” found that it can help with long term memory and age-related mental decline.

We provide you with the best care possible in these services:

334-335-3374

101 Hospital Circle Luverne AL 36049 www.CrenshawCommunityHospital.com

EXERCISE

FOR THE YOUNG AT HEART

By Courtney Farnet

ccording to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 31 million adults age 50 and older are inactive. Physical inactivity contributes to the development of chronic diseases including heart disease, lung disease, stroke, diabetes mellitus, Alzheimer’s disease, hypertension and cancer. Regular exercise can help delay, prevent or manage chronic disease and is associated with longer life. It results in improved cognition, quality of life and overall physical functioning. The World Health Organization’s physical activity guidelines suggest older adults participate in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic exercise per week or an equivalent combination. Activity should be performed in bouts of at least 10 minutes. The following forms of aerobic exercise are low impact, safe and effective options for older adults to boost stamina, stimulate bone growth, improve bone density and manage body weight.

Swimming

Walking

Water Aerobics

The Elliptical

Indoor Cycling

Indoor Rowing

WHAT ARE ENDORPHINS AND HOW DO THEY IMPACT YOUR HEALTH?

Endorphins are tiny neurochemicals produced by the central nervous system and pituitary gland in response to exercise, eating, drinking and sex. Endorphins are feel-good chemicals associated with the brain’s internal reward system. They naturally reduce pain and enhance pleasure, yielding a feeling of euphoria. Endorphin release is associated with positive self-image, increased energy levels and feelings of control and fulfillment. Endorphins enhance well-being by alleviating depression, reducing stress and anxiety, boosting selfesteem, improving sleep and regulating body weight. The term endorphin comes from the combination of endogenous (from within) and morphine (an opiatelike drug). Their effects are similar to those of anti-anxiety drugs and opiate painkillers without the negative side effects. Exercise regularly to increase endorphin release and improve overall quality of life.

Summer

FINANCE

The ABC’s of

By Dina Zelden

The in’s and out’s of Medicare can be overwhelming and confusing. Use these ABC’s to help make sense of it all.

A B C A is for AFTER.

Medicare Part A covers expenses after you are sick. Think inpatient hospital costs. Your costs will be covered at 80 percent. Medigap or supplemental coverage is available for the other 20 percent of expenses.

B is for BEFORE.

Medicare Part B covers healthcare costs before you are sick. Think outpatient costs as well as preventative care and doctor visits.

C is for COMBINE.

Medicare Part C, also known as Medicare Advantage, combines the benefits and coverage of Parts A and B and acts as primary insurance. It usually includes drug coverage as well as vision and dental which original Medicare excludes.

Celebrating your 65th birthday soon? Be prepared by understanding the different enrollment periods. INITIAL ENROLLMENT: This lasts for seven months including the three months leading up to and the three months after your 65th birthday. It is for first-time Medicare participants. GENERAL ENROLLMENT: This describes the period from January 1-March 31 each year for individuals who did not sign up before turning 65. SPECIAL ENROLLMENT: This is for individuals that meet certain requirements to sign up outside of the other enrollment periods.

ANNUAL ENROLLMENT PERIOD (AEP): This occurs every year from October 15-December 7, allowing individuals to make changes to their plan or choosing a new insurance provider. It is important to inform yourself before you enroll. Start by checking with your current physician to be sure they accept Medicare. You can have questions answered at 1-800-MEDICARE. In addition, free counseling is available from the State Health Insurance Assistance Program, known as SHIP. You can also refer to the www.Medicare.gov to compare plans and coverage in your area.

D X D is for DRUGS.

Medicare Part D covers medications. It is recommended that you speak to a specialist to determine the plan that is right for you. It is important that you enroll for Part D with your initial enrollment. If not, you will pay a penalty.

It is helpful to find a health insurance company that specializes in seniors to be sure you understand your options and to avoid any penalties. Penalties are assessed when you go more than 63 days without coverage under the Medicare drug plan or other creditable drug coverage. Healthcare is never as important as it is during your senior years. Using the proper resources can help you feel confident in your choices and ensure good health.

What Do Parts A/B NOT Cover?

• Annual physical exams, except for a one-time "Welcome to Medicare" exam when you join Medicare and an annual "Wellness" Visit every 12 months. • Long-Term nursing home care for more than 100 days. • Acupuncture, naturopathy, etc. • Routine foot care • Cosmetic surgery • Hearing aids • Dental care and dentures • Care outside the United States

Summer

NATURAL BEAUTY

Whiten

YOUR SMILE By Juliane Morris

HEALTHY, HAPPY SMILES COME IN ALL SHADES BUT THE FOOD AND DRINK WE PUT IN OUR MOUTHS, ALONG WITH AGING, CAUSES OUR TEETH TO TAKE ON A YELLOW TINT. TO BRIGHTEN YOUR PEARLY-WHITES, CONSIDER THESE NATURAL REMEDIES WHILE AVOIDING SOME OF THE WORST TEETHSTAINING DRINKS AND FOODS. READ ON TO LEARN WHICH STAIN-FIGHTING FOODS YOU CAN EVEN INCORPORATE TO HELP AVOID DISCOLORATION. Watch out for these! Acidic staples like lemons, oranges and apple cider vinegar, and foods that contain high digestive enzymes like pineapple, papaya and mango, can wear away tooth enamel,

revealing more of the yellowish and softer tissue of the underlying dentin. Tomato-based foods have high acid and tend to cling to teeth, sometimes penetrating enamel and leaving stains. Curry-based spices are highly pigmented and stain teeth. Eat dark greens like spinach or broccoli, or apples, pears, carrots, celery, cauliflower and cucumbers before consuming tomato and curry-based foods to help create a barrier over your tooth enamel. Also, rinsing out your mouth with water and having some milk can help neutralize acids. Since coffee, tea, wine, soda and sports drinks contain acidity and pigments (chromogens) that stain teeth and corrode enamel, consider using a reusable straw to limit contact with the surface of your teeth.

g whitenin Natural sing, after you oil rin all remedy is floss, swish a smmouth d brush an conut oil in your te. o c f inu o amount it it out after a m p s and

Keep your teeth white with these foods. Celery, carrots and apples are natural stain removers because their crunch helps to scrub teeth and increase self-cleaning saliva production. Cheese, yogurt and milks contain lactic acid which has been shown to protect teeth from decay. Dairy proteins bind to teeth, reinforcing them against harmful acids. Hard cheeses like Parmesan help whiten because the chewing helps remove food on teeth. Brush your teeth for two minutes in gentle circular motions with a soft-bristled brush at morning and night. Waiting 30 minutes after you eat and drink before brushing helps reduce the

risk of enamel damage if you’ve consumed acids or digestive enzymes. You can use baking soda (and can add a splash of hydrogen peroxide once per week if you’d like) with your toothpaste to gently polish stains away. Another natural whitening remedy is oil rinsing (pulling). To try this, after you brush and floss, swish a small amount of coconut oil in your mouth and spit it out after a minute. Retaining a white smile isn’t easy but you can take measures to avoid staincausing foods and drinks while consuming foods that help strengthen and whiten your smile. Think prevention AND care.

Cooking For One Breakfast Sweet Potato There are many reasons why we might have to cook for one! It can be living alone, home alone or simply making a separate healthy meal for yourself. Whatever the reason, this recipe provides a go-to meal when the occasion calls for a meal for one.

Energy 570kcal/26% Protein 16.55g/30% Total lipid (fat) 25.41g/52% Carbohydrate 73.58g/30%

RECIPE

INGREDIENTS • 1 large sweet potato • 1 small tomato sliced • 1 over-easy egg

• 1 slice turkey bacon • 1 teaspoon olive oil • A dash of sea salt and pepper

DIRECTIONS  Heat oven to 425 degrees F.  Prep potato by washing, drying and poke with fork several times in various areas of the potato.  Rub potato with olive oil, sea salt and pepper.  Place prepared potato on baking sheet and bake in the middle of the oven for 50-65 minutes.  While potato is cooking, cook your over-easy egg and bacon. Set aside.  Cook potato until tender when pierced with a fork.  Once cooked through, take the potato out and carefully cut the potato down the center lengthwise.  Place the slice of bacon in the middle, place the egg right on top of the bacon.  Eat and enjoy!

DR. KERI P. STANLEY

GENERAL DENTISTRY FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY 126 Academy Drive Greenville, AL 36037 | 334-382-2121

RECIPE

GAME NIGHT SNACKS

Calories•134kcal/6% Protein•2.52g/5% Total lipid•(fat) 3.33g7% Carbohydrate•24.77g

APPLESAUCE OAT No game night is complete without some fun snacks! BARS

Keeping it healthy and simple is a priority so you can enjoy your game night. These snacks provide health INGREDIENTS benefits and flavor. They should keep your night running 1 cup butter broken up into pieces tastefully and have your guests wanting more! 1/2 cup coconut sugar or stevia 2 cups flour RICE CAKE SNACK 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon 1 cup oats • Place the sliced bananas in a INGREDIENTS single layer on top of the peanut 1/4 cup blueberries 1 plain or cinnamon rice cake 1/4 cup sunflower seeds butter. Press banana firmly on 1 tablespoon peanut butter 2 cups applesauce to the peanut butter. 1/2 banana, sliced • If desired, use a dash of Dash of cinnamon, optional INSTRUCTIONS cinnamon over the top of the DIRECTIONS • Add butter, sugar and flour bananas. • Take the rice cake and spread into a food processor. Pulse • Enjoy! the peanut butter in a thin layer until mixture forms crumbs. over the whole top of the rice • Add cinnamon and oats to cake. processor. Pulse just until mixed. • Mix in blueberries and sunCalories 265kcal/12% flower seeds. Protein 3.75g/7% • Place half the oat mixture in a Total lipid (fat) 16.14g/33% lightly greased 9x13" baking dish. Carbohydrate 30.19g Press mixture down with your hands. • In a small mixing bowl combine applesauce and cinnamon. • Pour filling on top of oat mixture. Spread evenly over oats. • Sprinkle remaining oat mixture over applesauce. • Bake in a preheated 325 degree oven for 40 minutes. • Allow to fully cool before slicing.

Summer

HEALTHCARE MAGAZINE 2020

KRISTEN BEVERLY, CRNP

TRINA SIMMONS, CRNP

American Family Care PRI-MED

101 Paul Stabler Dr. Greenville, AL 36037 Phone:(334) 382-0734

CHASE BRADLEY Alabama Health Guidance Medicare Education & Sales (251) 746-2861 office (251) 714-0119 mobile jameschasebradley@gmail.com www.alabamahealthguidance.com

DANAN WHIDDON, CERTIFIED HERBALIST Sweet Heart Alabama 100 E. Commerce St. Greenville, AL 36037 Phone:(334) 357-7234

ANNE KEEN, CRNP

JAVIER TAPIA, MD

Greenville Pediatrics

46 L.V. Stabler Dr. Greenville, AL 36037 Phone:(334) 382-9760

LAUREN SMITH, CRNP

TARA MOLLUS, CRNP

Greenville Pediatrics

46 L.V. Stabler Dr. Greenville, AL 36037 Phone:(334) 382-9760

DAN C. HUDSON, DMD Family Dentistry 1666 S. Forest Ave. Luverne, AL 36049 Phone:(334) 335-3697

DR. ROBERT F. MARTIN, JR. DMD Orthodontic & Family Dentistry 137 Interstate Dr. Greenville, AL 36037 Phone:(334) 382-9610

HEATHER ALSBROOKS, DENTAL ASSISTANT

KAYLA SMITH, DENTAL ASSISTANT

Orthodontic & Family Dentistry

137 Interstate Dr. Greenville, AL 36037 Phone:(334) 382-9610

LINDA SULLIVAN, ACCOUNTS MANAGER

LISA PRICE, APPOINTMENT COORDINATOR

Orthodontic & Family Dentistry

137 Interstate Dr. Greenville, AL 36037 Phone:(334) 382-9610

MELISSA ADAMS, DENTAL HYGIENIST

TAMMI EDWARDS, DENTAL HYGIENIST

Orthodontic & Family Dentistry

137 Interstate Dr. Greenville, AL 36037 Phone:(334) 382-9610

Summer

HEALTHCARE MAGAZINE 2020

WILLIAM HAMILTON JR., DMD Family Dentistry

ASHLEY NIKKI HUGGINS, CRNP Regional Medical Clinic of Central Alabama

106 Fort Dale St. Greenville, AL. 36037 Phone:(334) 382-7844

125 Church St. Georgiana, AL. 36033

DR. AMRITA YEARWOOD, MD

DR. MUHAMMAD Z. AKBAR, MD