Colorado Springs
Spring 2010
PLUS:
Florence
Henderson
Showcase of Retirement Communities
The Road to a
SATISFYING SEX LIFE
Communication
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BEST WEALTH ADVISOR 5 YEARS IN A ROW
On behalf of each of us at Strategic Financial Partners I would like to thank the readers of the Colorado Springs Business Journal for recognizing us as the BEST WEALTH ADVISOR in Colorado Springs for the fifth year in a row. At Strategic Financial Partners, our advisors understand that your quality of life, your goals, dreams, and the legacy you leave for those that follow are of paramount importance. We are dedicated to help you look ahead with confidence so that someday you will look back with satisfaction. John W. Ferguson, Jr., CLU, CFS, AIF ® , President & CEO
Securities and Investment Advisory Services are offered through Securian Financial Services, Inc., Member FINRA/SIPC. Strategic Financial Partners is independently owned and operated. 41746 01-16-2009
Colorado Springs
SPRING 2010
Publisher’s Notes
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lthough it is almost March, I bring greetings and best wishes of this stillyoung year to you. Snowy weather—practically everywhere—has been the headline-making news so far and certainly that’s better than the financial gloom of a year ago. Here at SENIOR Magazines, 2010 means that we are entering our fifth year. And that makes it doubly appropriate that we add a new fifth magazine to our publishing family. So, with this Spring 2010 issue, Scottsdale SENIOR Magazine joins Collin County SENIOR Magazine, Colorado Springs SENIOR Magazine, Denton County SENIOR Magazine and Texoma SENIOR Magazine. If you have friends or relatives in the greater Scottsdale, Arizona area, be sure to tell them to look for Scottsdale SENIOR Magazine—or better yet, provide us (by e-mail, by phone or USPS) the names and addresses and we’ll send them—entirely complimentary as always—the very first issue of Scottsdale SENIOR Magazine. Personally, I am so very pleased to be able to feature a true American sweetheart (her birthday, in case you didn’t know, is Valentine’s Day!) on our spring cover. Like so many, I was a Brady Bunch watcher and thus am a long-time fan of Florence Henderson. It’s wonderful to learn more about her and I hope that many of you will be able to attend a performance of her one-woman show. Read more on pages 6 and 7. As you read about Florence, you’ll learn too just how appropriate this next item is. Florence has a new service to help folks—especially her demographic (fellow seniors)—find their way through the intricacies of the internet. And if you avail yourself of the services of her FloH Club you’ll be able to visit our fully-redesigned SENIOR Magazine website.Yes, it IS bigger and better for now you can read articles from all of our regional magazines in one place, on-line. And we’re on Facebook and Twitter too. Have a glorious Spring!
Josh
Colorado Springs SENIOR • Spring 2010
Associate Publisher GARY JACOBSON, Scottsdale, AZ Features Writer/Copy Editor HELEN V HUTCHINGS Graphic Designers SALLY SUE DUNN MICHAEL REISING Distribution JENN STEINKE, Colorado CARRIE GANDY, Texas & Oklahoma Advertising/Sales JOSH CATES, All Markets Josh@YourSENIORmagazine.com GARY JACOBSON, Scottsdale, AZ Gary@YourSENIORmagazine.com SENIOR Magazine, Inc. President & CEO, Josh Cates Vice President & CFO, Bob Cates Subscriptions/Customer Inquiries SENIOR Magazine P.O. Box 64108 Colorado Springs, Colorado 80962 www.YourSENIORmagazine.com 719-481-9626 (Colorado) 940-231-2220 (Texas) All advertisements in this Magazine are placed by third-parties. [We] do not control or endorse such advertisements or their content. Further [We] do not manufacture, sell, distribute or provide any of the goods or services advertised herein (unless otherwise expressly stated herin). [We] hereby expressly disclaim any liability with respect to the information contained in such advertisements and any goods or services advertised herein. [We] further disclaim any and all warranties or respresentations, express or implied, with respect to such information and such goods and services, including any warranty of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose (it being understood that [We] do not acknowledge that any such warranty exists). [We] are not liable or responsible for any loss, injury, damage, or harm that you may suffer as a result of the information contained in any advertisement or the goods or services advertised herin. [We] refers to the name of the Magazine, The Senior Resource Guide.
POSTMASTER: Keyword: Your SENIOR Magazine
Publisher & Editor-in-Chief JOSH CATES
Send address changes to: SENIOR Magazine P.O. Box 64108 Colorado Springs, CO 80962-4108
Contents Spring 2010
HOSPITALS Stick With It - Heart Rehabilitation Beacon Award Re-Claiming Independence
ADULT DAY SERVICES
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Aging in Place ADULT HOME CARE Preparing for Future Care Needs Colorado Home Care Licensure Act Baby Boomers and Care Giving Water and Senior Citizens Exercise is Good for Heart and Soul
11 13 14 16 17
ATTORNEYS Protecting Your Assets
19 DENTISTS
The Oral Systemic Connection 21 Now Is the Time 22 FINANCE & INSURANCE Retirement Planning 23 Re-Thinking Annuities 25 What Are Your Investments Earning 27 HEALTHY SLEEP Combining Technologies for Better Health 29 HOME HEALTH Integrative Therapies 31 HOME MODIFICATION Aging-In-Place Remodeling 33
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The Road to a Satisfying Sex Life
Showcase of Retirement Communities
page
56 page
60
Improving Communication
PHARMACIES & EQUIPMENT Eye Health and Cataracts PAIN MANAGEMENT Back Pain Relief PHYSICIANS MILD - The New Solution Diverticulosis - What You Need to Know Numb Painful Feet Bad News and Good News Taking Care of Aging Knees No Bones About It Medicare and Eye Care, Part II Side Effects The Breast Center of Excellence RETIREMENT LIVING Dining Services How Do We Choose Improving Communication Options for Senior Care Living an Optimum Life When is it Time to Move
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ON THE COVER
By: Helen V Hutchings
Florence Henderson on stage in her one-woman show, All the Lives of Me . . . is coming to Colorado. However as we went to press, the dates and locations for Colorado performances had not been finalized, so watch your local listings.
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he sings. She dances. Of course, she’s an accomplished actress and performer, truly an all-around entertainer. But Florence Henderson also skypes, and e-mails messages and photographs to family and friends, and surfs the net. Florence is very much a testament to the wisdom of remaining engaged and active—mentally and physically—for she too is “one of us”. Florence Henderson’s Broadway debut was, similar to anyone starting out, a small part. But her abilities and talent quickly caught the eye of the likes of Rogers and Hammerstein and Joshua Logan. Thus two years later in 1954, at the ripe old age of 20, Florence was cast as the star, originating the role of Fanny on Broadway in the musical Fanny. Nearly 1,000 performances later (and remember in those days you really had to “project” vocally as there were no individual microphones amplifying each cast member), it is understating things just a bit to observe Florence Henderson’s career was “well launched”. On Broadway and as part of touring companies she’s be Maria in The Sound of Music, Anna opposite Ricardo Montalban in The King and I, Nellie Forbush in South Pacific, Annie in Annie Get Your Gun and so many more. In 1969 television came calling in what would turn out to be another “biggie” in Florence ’s professional career. She was cast as Carol Brady, aka “mom”, in The Brady Bunch. The series ran for five seasons but even though it technically ended in 1974, it has never been off the air right up to today as it currently is syndicated and on the air in 122 countries around the world plus the US .
Colorado Springs SENIOR • Spring 2010
There’s more to the lady than just her work on stage and screens (big and little). Although her first marriage in 1956 to Broadway producer Ira Bernstein ended in divorce in 1985, they had had two sons and two daughters. Florence openly says that events of the mid-80s left her shaken and she battled depression. Seeking help to cope with her depression led to Florence meeting Dr John Kappas. They subsequently were wed in 1987. Renowned hypnotherapist Kappas is credited with not only defining the profession but establishing the first training program, the Hypnosis Motivation Institute, the first-ever in its field to be nationally accredited by the US Department of Education. With Kappas Florence shared love, but he also helped her gain a new level of awareness and skills. Today Florence herself is a certified hypnotherapist. Together they coped with and battled the cancer that ultimately claimed Kappas in September 2002. Since then, Florence has been an advocate and motivational speaker for women’s health issues and is, among her other humanitarian activities, a spokeswoman for City of Hope Cancer Research Center. This indomitable lady has no plans to retire—and she walks the talk. She has a new venture and a new show, and with both she bears witness to her belief in the importance of exercise and trying to have and attain a personal harmony between that mind, body and spirit triad. Entertaining on stage, however, came to her more easily than her adeptness with computers. Although Florence Henderson embraced
the new technology, learning to master it in fact took “a little help from a friend”. As Florence told one interviewer, she was having difficulties doing anything more on her cell phone than place a phone call. Within minutes her friend had explained and shown her how to operate its features like an old hand. Same thing with her personal computer. This experience became the inspiration behind the FloH brand which is dedicated to the concept of Better Living for Seniors and is centered around feeling better through exercise and healthy eating, as well as thinking better through new experiences and tools for living. The first service—fitting into that tools for living category—was launched just last October. In association with a technology partner, it is called the FloH Club; and is a membership, telephone-based, technical support service for older adults. Floh Club matches member-callers with technicians who work remotely from their own homes. Several membership levels are available depending upon a member’s needs. Each membership is matched or paired to one individual computer (pc’s only please, not currently available for Mac or Apple users) and includes a monthly newsletter about technology for older adults from Henderson. Services include anything from simple e-mailing and making online purchases safely, to step-by-step guides on video conferencing, instant messaging, or troubleshooting support for slow or poor computer system performance, error messages, virus/spyware removal and data backup. Additionally, FloH club members can learn how to set up and use wireless networks, printers, digital cameras and more. Because entertaining others does come easily to Florence and because she’s reached that time of life when she has experiences and a message to share—she’s embarked on a one-woman show that is a very personal retrospective. This writer has not had the pleasure of attending a performance of Florence Henderson’s one-woman show that she calls All the Lives of Me . . . A Musical Journey, but reactions from those who have are telling. Like a true Hoosier (yes, Florence was born in Indiana, and since the mid-90s has returned each year to warble God Bless America prior to the start of the Indianapolis 500) she opted to preview her new show on homestate audiences in Indianapolis, backed by no less than the Indianapolis Symphony Orchestra. Critic Philip Potempa concluded his review with, “Henderson can still hit all the high notes and her larger-than-life persona and zest for entertaining is easy to embrace as it keeps audiences enthralled with her song and story.” Lest you discount reaction from a home-town audience and
reviewer, January 2010 Florence took her show to the Rrazz Room in San Francisco. More glowing reviews were forthcoming from David Wiegand writing in the San Francisco Chronicle: “In truth, Henderson, svelte and terminally perky, sings only about a dozen numbers over the course of her 90-minute show, and a couple of those songs are novelty numbers cleverly meant to concede the fact that she may not be a spring chicken, she may or may not have had work done, she really, really likes men, regardless of her squeaky-clean TV image, and so what? She deceives the audience as only a superb performer can: Within minutes, you’ll think she’s in your living room, chatting over cocktails. And by the end of the show, the only question you’ll want to ask is, do you really have to go?” And while the curtain will fall, signaling the end of each performance of All The Lives of… (of course, only after Florence has been called back for an encore), America’s museum, The Smithsonian in Washington, DC, has ensured that Florence Henderson’s place in the entertainment cosmos is preserved for all time as part of the National Museum of American History’s entertainment collections. As shown in photo below Florence Henderson has been honored, along with some of her contemporaries, as one of the Legendary Leading Ladies of Stage and Screen. A fitting tribute indeed to a lady who continues to give of her time, her energy and her talents to entertain and delight us all.
The Smithsonian Nationaltory’s Museum of American His of Legendary Leading Ladiese at Stage and Screen on stag . the presentation ceremony Inset, left to right, Olympic swim champ turned actress Esther Williams, comedienne Rose Marie, Hello Dolly! Carol Channing, catwomane in television’s Batman Juli Newmar, star of Alfred Hitchcock’s The Birds andcover Marnie Tippi Hedren, our star Florence Henderson and Space star of Lassie and Lost in June Lockhart.
Colorado Springs SENIOR • Spring 2010
ADULT DAY SERVICES
Aging in Place
Providing Choices for Seniors in our Community
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By: Anne Cuizon, CTRS e have all heard the heartwarming stories. A loved one was able to remain in his or her home, surrounded by family and friends to live out the golden years. Isn’t that what we all want for our family members? Isn’t that what we would choose for ourselves? Most American seniors desire to stay in their homes for their entire life. In fact, one AARP survey found this number to be greater than 80% of seniors. This concept is called “aging in place.” What this means is having the ability to make the choice of where and with whom we would like to live out our lives. Contrary to popular belief, most American seniors live independently while maintaining strong relationships with family and friends. In fact, depression occurs less in un-institutionalized seniors than among young adults. With that said, age related changes can and do occur and many of us will require some assistance as we age. So how do we address an increased need for assistance while maintaining our independence? Nursing homes play a vital role in long-term care; however a certain amount of control is lost when one leaves home. This “control” over our lives and the choices we make is one of the foundations to our feelings of dignity, quality of life and independence. Leaving behind a comfortable setting, familiar community and many memories is a challenge no matter what age you are. There are other long-term care options. One option is adult day centers. The concept of adult day centers began in the 1960s and was bolstered in the 1980s after President Ronald Reagan created National Adult
Day Services week challenging Americans “to consider the value of adult day care centers and to give appropriate recognition to centers offering these important services.” Since then, the concept has grown to more than 3,500 centers across the country. These day programs keep participants engaged, comfortable and safe while deflecting the high cost of long-term care. Many centers feature an activity staff which coordinates outings, crafts, exercise programs, cooking classes, computer classes and more. Most programs offer a specially trained staff and some even feature a certified therapeutic recreation specialist. Certified nursing assistants are available to assist with medication administration and personal needs. These programs not only benefit seniors through therapeutic activity and socialization, they can also provide some much needed respite for family members who are caring for loved ones. Caregivers can have peace of mind knowing their family member is safe and engaged in stimulating activities throughout the day. This also allows the caregiver more time for personal commitments, such as work and children. Taking time for oneself is something that caregivers often neglect. This all comes with the tremendous benefit of seniors being able to return to the home they know and love in the evenings. Another option that can be used as a standalone service or in conjunction with adult day care is in-home care. Inhome care comes in two varieties, medical and
non-medical. These services can help seniors remain at home rather than use residential, long-term or institutional-based care. Non-medical services can include assistance with errands, housekeeping, grocery shopping, meal preparation, laundry service, aid with personal hygiene and feeding, as well as providing company. Along with allowing seniors to stay in their homes longer, another very attractive feature of these services is that typically they can be obtained at a fraction of the cost of nursing homes and assisted living centers (and without a long-term contract). That’s not to say that there won’t come a time when a nursing home or assisted living center is the appropriate decision, but until then, remember you have choices. If you’d like more information on adult day centers or in-home non-medical assistance please contact Seth Rankin, at 719381-9468 or info@goodwill-colosprings.org Author Anne Cuizon, CTRS is with the Life at the Bluffs Adult Day Center
Colorado Springs SENIOR • Spring 2010
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Interactive Caregiving is Comfort Keepers®' unique philosophy of care that improves a senior's quality of life. We strive to keep our senior clients mentally stimulated, physically active and socially engaged. The key to achieving this every day is to transform the activities of life into opportunities to exercise their minds, bodies, and memories. Interactive Caregiving is not a special service, but rather a philosophy of care that is incorporated into our companionship, homemaking, and personal care services.
s e r v i c e s •Companionship •Cooking, Light Housekeeping •Incidental transportation •Laundry •Grooming, Dressing Guidance • medication reminders • personal Care services: – Bathing, Hygiene – Incontinence Care – many others
Our Comfort Keepers® are carefully screened, bonded, and insured.
719-522-9100 Each office independently owned and operated. © 2009 CK Franchising, Inc.
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Preparing for Future Care Needs
Article courtesy of Comfort Keepers ery few individuals want to think about future needs for aging services and long-term care until it becomes a necessity. This often leads to poor planning with a big consequence of a rushed decision that may not be the best fit for an individual’s needs. Planning ahead for unexpected illness, injury, or simply the typical needs of the elderly, can eliminate hasty decisions on aging-service options. Planning in advance also increases an individual’s choices, giving them a say in the type of assistance they receive. Assisted living facilities, retirement communities and nursing homes frequently have an admission waiting list. When a unit opens up, it will usually be offered to individuals on the waiting list before someone without an application. In-home care providers, such as Comfort Keepers, typically do not have waiting lists. These services allow the client to continue living independently in the comfort of their own home. Services generally include companionship, home cooking, light housekeeping, shopping, transportation, and errands, but may also include personal care services such as bathing, feeding, transferring or incontinence care. Many Americans are not prepared for costs of long-term care services and those costs are expected to continue to rise. In the US, 6,000 people reach 65 each day. One in five Americans will be older than age 65 by 2030 according to AARP in 2003. This increase of US seniors means an ever increasing number of people who will be looking for assistance with daily living activities. “Our owners have found that many of their clients are not prepared for
the monumental decisions surrounding long-term care options,” shared Jim Booth, CEO of Comfort Keepers. “It is unfortunate that many of us do not understand the costs associated, or the multitude of services available until our loved ones need it.” Figuring out how to pay for longterm care can be confusing, and payment options can be complicated. It can be beneficial to speak with a professional. Lawyers, accountants, professional care coordinators, or Agency on Aging in your area can explain options. But here are some different long-term care payment options: Long-term care insurance can provide assistance for an extended period if you cannot perform activities of daily living. It covers different options of long-term care options, giving an insured ability to choose the type of care that best fits needs. Policies are different so it is important to learn what services and types of care potential insurers cover. Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) is an option that falls under Medicare and Medicaid offering medical and socials services to individuals which allow them to continue living at home but may not be available in all states. Medicaid is a joint state-federal program that aids individuals who qualify by income as determined by the state. Medicaid will often pay for the majority of nursing home costs. Long-term care is only covered when a person is determined destitute, having exhausted all savings. Medicaid will not cover assisted living or continuing care retirement communities. Medicare is health insurance for
those over 65, as well as certain others who are disabled. Long-term care coverage is often limited and Medicare usually does not cover assisted living costs. In-home care is covered only if the individual is homebound and requires skilled nursing care or therapy. Medicare is intended to cover the services that focus on recovery. States may offer a variety of services to consumers under Home and Community Based Services waiver programs. As the number of services is not limited, these programs may provide a combination of both traditional medical services and non-medical services. Understanding available programs and what each does, or does not cover, can help to remove financial burdens upon you and your family. There are legal documents that can ensure one’s wishes regarding medical and long-term care are met. It is important to outline your desires to prevent family conflicts during already stressful times. When you plan ahead for long term care, you are making decisions by choice, instead of other people making decisions for you during a time of crisis. For many, Comfort Keepers® in-home care services, which provide non-medical, in-home companion care on an hourly, daily, weekly or live-in basis for individuals needing assistance with activities of daily living, are a care option that may be the long-term solution for an individual’s care needs. In the event an individual’s needs go beyond what can be safely provided in the home, Comfort Keepers can be a resource and can offer research and information to help in this process. For more information, visit www.ComfortKeepers. com or call 719-522-9100. Colorado Springs SENIOR • Spring 2010
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Taking Care of Mom & Dad... ...and feeling Overwhelmed?
Providing Qualified Caregivers & CNAs • Bonded/insured/trained/screened • Employees; not contractors • Compassionate & dependable • NO MINIMUM HOURS - up to 24/7 care
Call For Your Free In-Home Consultation:
(719)634-4999
You Can Count on Right at Home for Quality Senior Home Care • Private duty companion & homemaker services • Transportation/Errands • Medication Reminders • Housekeeping/Meal Prep • Skilled RN, LPN, & CNAs Right at Home, is a fully licensed homecare provider under the new Colorado State requirements – license number 04J542. Colorado Springs’s largest private pay homecare agency specializing in care for seniors and adults with disabilities. For more information about homecare or any other senior services – Call (719) 634-4999
- Mark Terry, Owner
adult home care
Colorado Home Care Licensure Act
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What it Means to the Consumer
By: Mark Terry, Owner of Right at Home he senior boom is offiWhat to ask for when selecting cially upon us. In 1776, a provider: the average life expec- • Learn the background and history of tancy was 35 years. In a company and references from past or 1880, it was 45, and current clients. today it is 75-plus years and growing. • Ask what their hiring process consists In fact, projections are that by 2020 of. there will be more than 7 million over • Ask to see a copy of their State of the age of 85. Colorado license, or if they have not Homecare services have gained received it yet, ask to see a copy of popularity over the past decade as an the application they submitted to the option to providing care for our aging State showing that they are in full population while keeping them inde- compliance of the new homecare regpendent in their own homes. ulations. (Homecare companies were With the passing of the Colorado required to have this item no later Home Care Licensure Act there are than January 1, 2010). now clear and definitive guidelines Making the decision to hire a set in place to protect the health and homecare agency to provide services welfare of homecare consumers, and for you or your loved one is an imenforce regulations that set minimum portant decision. There is a great deal standards for homecare services. The of information available to consumers new licensure is very detailed, outlin- to help ensure that the right choice is ing what providers can and cannot do, made. Investing time to research the and most importantly, it holds them different options available in your accountable. The new state licensure area will be well worth the effort, and went into effect on August 31, 2009. repaid with peace of mind and quality care. What does this mean for you, a homecare recipient? • Not every existing homecare company Author Mark Terry is the presiwill be approved for licensure. dent/owner of Right at Home, a fully • There are different categories of licen- licensed homecare provider under the sure that will define and restrict what new State requirements. He has offices types of care providers can and cannot in Colorado Springs and the Denver provide under each. Metro areas. Right at Home is Colorado • Heightened communication and care- Springs’s largest private-pay homecare giver competency testing will ensure agency specializing in care for seniors care recipients receive care services from and adults with disabilities. More inqualified individuals. formation about homecare or any other • The overall quality of care services will senior services can be obtained by callbe higher. ing 719-634-4999
“With the passing of the Colorado Home Care Licensure Act there are now clear and definitive guidelines set in place to protect the health and welfare of homecare consumers, and enforce regulations that set minimum standards for homecare services.” Colorado Springs SENIOR • Spring 2010
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Baby Boomers & Care Giving
By: Pennie Hoops, Homewatch CareGivers met a woman named Kathy the finances and permits her to watch other day. She is 57 years old and her daughter’s children and her parhas three children. Two are in ents while she works. Each evening, college. The third is single with the daughter drives the grandparents two children, all of whom live on home then returns to take care of her Kathy’s property. Kathy’s husband, 63, own children. Kathy’s siblings are not retired early but has diabetes and needs nearby to help and she is reaching the a great deal of care. end of her rope. Kathy’s mom and dad, in their 80s, Sound familiar? Are you or someone live 35 miles away. Her dad has Al- you know in a similar situation? zheimer’s; her mom bad arthritis. Mom Kathy is a baby boomer and a true is having a great deal of trouble caring picture of the sandwich generation— for her husband because of her arthritis simultaneously caring for children and pain and because she does not under- aging parents. Although the Kathy in stand her husband’s disease. my story is fictional, the situation is Kathy works 30 hours a week similar to many true stories. Another from home in a job that helps with person turns 60 every 7.5 seconds, so the likelihood of people needing to provide care for family members keeps increasing. My mom (a saint and practically perfect in every way) took care of my grandma (the cutest little old lady you could ever want to know) until Grandma died at the age of 99. It required sacrifice and dedication though as Mom was not able to take time away for leisure travel. She did everything on her own without help and she was not young herself. At 73 she was caring for Grandma full time. She has arthritis and fibromyalgia so many of her caretaking tasks caused her pain. She did not know much about dementia and found care giving an emotional drain. Many times she would call me in tears and we would talk until we found something to laugh about. 14
Colorado Springs SENIOR • Spring 2010
Getting my mom help caring for Grandma was difficult. I would fly Mom and Grandma to my house for a month at a time to enjoy their company and give Mom some time off. During visits, we talked about the difficulties. We found articles on care giving and laughed when they suggested taking time for yourself, eating right, and getting proper exercise. Mom once said to me “Not all people are cut out for the job” and she was right. I guess you could say “Care giving is a calling.” One night while helping Mom learn to surf the net and build a Facebook page so we could exchange photos, we found Homewatch CareGivers, a Denver-based company that had been providing in-home care for families since 1976 serving seniors, children, veterans, the chronically ill, and those recovering from medical procedures. What stood out for us was their promise to preserve dignity, provide peace of mind, and protect independence. There wasn’t a Homewatch CareGivers in Mom’s small town when Mom was caring for Grandma. But even when Grandma passed, we couldn’t get care giving and Homewatch CareGivers out of our heads. Eventually, we started a new Homewatch CareGivers in the Springs. We thoroughly enjoy having our family care for other families. Every day we exchange success stories on how family members deal with diseases, stress, and family dynamics while taking care of loved ones at home. If you help care for a family member at home and you are exhausted, not sleeping and feeling overwhelmed, you are not alone. It is common to feel like
adult home care
you are “missing out on life� (because you are). However, it is hard to leave the care of a family member to someone else. Taking care of loved ones can be overwhelming even for the most seasoned caregiver. We believe one of the secrets to success for us is caring for the caregivers as much as the person needing care. Whether it is mom or dad, other family members, or our caregiving staff, we help educate and find the resources needed to maintain independence at home. Our Colorado Springs caregivers are hand-selected professionals and our employees, not independent agents. Plus, each is comprehensively trained through Homewatch CareGivers University enabling them to assist even with complex cases because we know that educated caregivers bring pride and confidence to the tender job of caring. Each one makes it his or her goal to provide compassionate and highlyskilled premium home care to your family. We have a wonderful agency manager, Sh-
eryl Scheuer, who has years of experience in the field and is well‌the best! Sheryl is UCCS-certified in gerontology, certified in Alzheimer’s care by the Alzheimer’s Association, and an instructor, statewide, for the Alzheimer’s Learning Institute.
“If you help care for a family member at home and you are exhausted, not sleeping and feeling overwhelmed, you are not alone.� From the first phone call you make to us, we make sure everything fits your needs. We begin with a no cost in-home assessment with you and your family member. Then we create a personalized in-home care plan that is customized to fit your family’s needs. This can include light duty housework,
laundry, meal preparation, bathing— even services you didn’t realize you needed—from a few hours up to 24hour care, 365 days a year. Every client has individual needs and expectations, so we want to make sure that there is a perfect fit. We promise to do whatever it takes to find that perfect caregiver for your loved one. We want you to think of Homewatch CareGivers Colorado Springs as part of your extended family where special caregivers work for special clients: just like family. Our caregivers promote companionship and independence for our clients, providing trust and peace of mind for the families that we serve. Let our family care for yours. Author Pennie Hoops runs Homewatch CareGivers of Colorado Springs, an inhome care agency. If you need care or have a loved one who needs care, call her at 719-358-8659
Let our family care for yours. Sometimes all we need is a little extra help when faced with the unique challenges of balancing careers, raising familes and caring for aging parents. Whether you need assistance with a senior family member, adult or child, Homewatch CareGivers is committed to providing compassionate home care through an experienced, caring staff.
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Colorado Springs SENIOR • Spring 2010
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Water and Senior Citizens
Article courtesy of Senior Helpers s we age, the balance between our need for water and our thirst for water shifts. In fact, the less water an older person drinks, the less thirsty they become, leaving them open to the risk of serious dehydration and other complications. Confusion over the difference between hunger and thirst intensifies over the years, making it all the more important to conscientiously drink adequate amounts of water throughout the day. At the very minimum, one should consume one cup of water for every 20 pounds of body weight daily; that’s around six to eight glasses for the average person. Increased fiber intake among seniors, which is usually recommended for older people to aid in preventing constipation and other health concerns, also increases the need for water. The human body is at least 50% water, of which two to three quarts are lost on a daily basis. Even bones are over 20% water! Aside from replenishing what is lost
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n Caring Companionship n Bathing & Dressing n Light Housekeeping
n Meal Prep & Clean Up n Walking Assistance n Transferring n Alzheimer’s &
Dementia Care
n Medication Reminders n Up to 24-hour Care n Bonded, & Insured
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Colorado Springs SENIOR • Spring 2010
in order to hydrate the blood and tissues, water also lubricates joints, regulates temperature, and moistens the lungs to allow for respiration. Inadequate water intake over time prevents these processes from occurring and contributes to arthritis, sore muscles, heavy breathing, and a higher body temperature. This means that not drinking enough water over time can result in more severe effects at an older age, which means preventable problems during what should be the golden years. Senior citizens are at particular risk for dehydration because their kidney function has diminished to some degree. Symptoms of dehydration include confusion, drowsiness, labored speech, dry mouth, and sunken eyeballs. Side effects for seniors who do not drink enough water, however, extend far beyond dehydration. Even short-term water deprivation has been known to cause chronic pain. Over time, lack of water can include complications such as: loss of muscle tone, excess
weight gain, slow metabolism, increased toxicity, organ failure, arthritis, migraines, and digestive complications. In order to maintain health, the kidneys must excrete a minimum of ten ounces of waste per day. When water is not available, there is nothing present in which to dissolve the body’s waste products (uric acid and urea) for expulsion. As a result, they build up within the body, leading to kidney stones, while putting additional strain on the kidneys to find adequate liquid with which to expel toxins. Considering the abundance of water in our daily lifestyles, the fact that most senior citizens are consistently dehydrated to some degree is alarming. With the abundance of water in the diet, the average senior citizen still requires over two and a half quarts of pure water each day to maintain good health. Note: This piece is an edited version of an article originally appearing on http://www.freedrinkingwater.com/watereducation/water-senior.htm.
adult home care
Exercise is Good for Heart and Soul
By: Carey Coleman, RN and Professional Geriatric Care Manager he physical benefits of exercise have long been touted, but what about the emotional and psychological effects? Experts agree, and research data supports, that people who exercise regularly are less likely to have depression symptoms. Furthermore, those patients who are diagnosed with mild to moderate depression are being “prescribed” exercise is an effective treatment with impressive results. This offers an important treatment alternative to patients who are reluctant to take medications for fear of side effects, or the perceived stigma associated with antidepressant drugs. What’s more, some brand new research questions the overall effectiveness of these medications. In fact, new studies reveal that exercise reduced depression symptoms by 50% in individuals who participated in aerobic activities three to five times a week. “The effect you find when using aerobic exercise alone in treating clinical depression is similar to what you find with antidepressant medications,” said Dr Madhukar Trivedi, a professor of psychiatry and director of UT Southwestern’s mood disorders research program. How is that possible? When the human body exercises, it releases chemicals called endorphins. These chemicals react with the receptors in the brain. This results in positive feelings (euphoria) and diminished perception of pain (analgesia). Addi-
T
“The effect you find when using aerobic exercise alone in treating clinical depression is similar to what you find with antidepressant medications,”
tionally, endorphins have a sedative, calming property. Participation in a regular exercise program has also demonstrated improvements in the following areas: A boost in self esteem, confidence and positive mood; reduced anxiety and stress; improved sleep/wake patterns; increases appetite; strengthens cardiovascular and respiratory systems; and helps improve muscle tone and strength while also reducing body fat Yet with all the benefits of exercise, it is interesting to note that according to The American Heart Association only approximately 32% of Americans report that they participate in regular exercise. Whether you are currently a faithful exerciser (good for you!) or contemplating starting a new workout program, the key is to find something you enjoy. In addition, exercising with a partner or in a group also demonstrates much lower “drop-out” rates. Try to think outside the traditional “treadmill” or “aerobic class” box. Some examples of moderate exercise (at least three times a week) include: walking; dancing; biking; running (at a moderate pace); swimming; playing tennis; golfing (if walking and not using the cart); gardening and yard work; housework (especially sweeping, mopping, vacuuming, etc.); and yoga. So, whether you are fighting depression, want a healthier body or want to improve your quality of life (or all three combined), it’s time to get moving! S Colorado Springs SENIOR • Spring 2010
17
"Your estate plan is the final conversation you'll have with your loved ones. What do you want it to say?"
C
Custom, personal and unique. That’s the hallmark of Goldberg Law Center, P.C. Our 23-year-old practice is limited to designing and implementing highly customized strategies and delivering workable solutions to individuals, families and entrepreneurs. If you are looking for generic documents or “one-size-fits-all” planning that you can get for the lowest possible price, with a minimum of commitment and involvement, we are not your answer. But, if you are looking for the ultimate peace of mind experience – one that’s very hands-on, highly personalized, totally interactive and extremely rewarding – a plan that will accomplish each and every one of your goals for you, your family and your business, we may be just what you’re looking for.
Estate Design Retirement Planning Asset Protection Business Entities Charitable Giving Real Estate
(719) 444.0300
attorneys
Protecting Your A
H
By: Douglas G. Goldberg, Esq. ow many lawsuits were filed in the US yesterday? How about the day before and the day before that? You may be shocked to discover that over 40,000 lawsuits are filed in the US everyday. Even though nobody expects to be sued, the fact is that the highest level of risk falls on those who think they are immune. You have worked hard during your lifetime. You sacrificed to buy a home, raise your family, put some money away for retirement, and you’ve acquired some quality “things.” So how do you keep lawsuits, taxes, a failed marriage, huge medical bills, a job loss, or the myriad of other “dragons” that seek to wipe out your hard earned assets from robbing you of your financial peace of mind? A solid asset protection plan consists of lines of defense for protection. Then regularly and systematically adding fortifications to your planning ensures your family fortress remains strong throughout your lifetime and into the next generation. The first line of defense in any situation is state and federal law. Both federal law and the state of Colorado allow certain property to be exempt from anyone taking it. For example, depending on your age, the equity in your home is protected up to $90,000. Your retirement plan may be exempt, depending on the type of plan, and a small amount of cash value in your life insurance policy may also be protected. Not much, but at least it’s something. Insurance is your second line of defense. Everyone should have insurance to protect their stuff—home, cars, business and personal property. You should also have an umbrella policy to cover claims over and above what these policies don’t cover. You should also have insurance to cover you—your medical care, your life,
your disability, your potential stay in a nursing home. All are available depending on your current health and budget. As the saying goes, you will never be younger or healthier than you are today. If you can afford it, buy it now. Another line of defense is to give your property away. The good news is that if you don’t own it, you cannot lose it. The bad news is that you when you make a gift, you give up control of the asset, you lose
“How do you keep lawsuits, taxes, a failed marriage, huge medical bills, a job loss, or the myriad of other “dragons” that seek to wipe out your hard earned assets from robbing you of your financial peace of mind?” the income from it and the asset is now subject to the donee’s problems and creditors. The law also limits your ability to give assets away. If you make gifts incorrectly or at the wrong time, you can be severely penalized. In other cases, you may even be criminally liable for transferring the asset. Depending on your personal circumstances, several options are available to strengthen your family fortress. At an absolute minimum, you should consider establishing a solid revocable living trust-based estate plan, with appropriate powers of attorney and ancillary documents to save your family the hassle and expense of a probate proceeding if you become disabled or die. Irrevocable trusts are another superb planning tool. These trusts should be custom designed for you to accomplish certain specific goals. Life insurance trusts, charitable giving
ets
trusts, grandchildren’s gifting trusts, and Medicaid planning trusts are examples of irrevocable trusts that can be drafted precisely to accomplish certain asset protection goals. Creating and funding entities such as limited liability companies, family limited partnerships, and corporations are further examples of excellent ways to protect your assets. While these advanced-planning tools may be exceptional options for you, you should be aware that they take a lot of work to create, fund and maintain. Each fortification strategy will work extremely well if it is properly designed and integrated into your planning. The analysis of which tools and strategies are appropriate for you, and how to properly combine and use them will depend on many factors. How much control do you want to keep? What are the setup and maintenance costs? Additionally, the potential legal challenges to the strategy and the income and estate tax ramifications are all important factors. No one tool, or set of tools, is suitable for every family or situation. While the final decision is obviously yours to make, you should absolutely get the advice of your attorney, your CPA, and your financial advisor. Exceptional asset protection is not a fast, cheap or easy proposition. However, with careful planning and drafting of the correct documents, you can give yourself and your loved ones real peace of mind. We would be honored to speak with you about the design and implementation of your asset protection plan. That phone call could be the difference between reaching your financial goals and “losing it all.” For more information on how you can protect your assets, call us at (719)-444-0300. Colorado Springs SENIOR • Spring 2010
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Star Dental Systems, Inc.
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dentists
The Oral Systemic Connection “When the gums are less than healthy, blood flow can pick up bacteria and carry it to the rest of the body.”
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By: Larry J. Rush, DDS, PC, Star Dental Systems id you grow up singing Dem Bones? I think it is probably one of the first songs I learned as a child in the 1950s. The website at the bottom will take you to the video of the Delta Rhythm Boys singing Dem Bones purported to have been written by James Weldon (1871-1938). Somehow, many of us think of our “parts” as separate and autonomous in their function, when really all the components of our body (bones, muscle, tissue, blood) are all very much connected to each other. What happens in one part Want to know more? of the body may very well effect what is going on in another. Here are some web sites Dental health is so much more where you can find more than an attractive smile because there in-depth discussions. is increasing evidence that the health of teeth and gingivae (gums) may be The American Dental Association is at affecting other health conditions. The www.ada.org/prof/resources/ most recent list of suspected oral conpubs/adanews/adanewsarticle. nections includes: cardiovascular disease asp?articleid=2100 (various heart and artery conditions), pulmonary disease, fetal development, The Colgate Corporation has information at diabetes, orthopedic implant failure, www.colgate.com/app/ColgateTotal/ kidney disease, and osteoporosis. US/EN/MBHC/TheAssociation.cwsp The same blood that flows through the heart, lungs, muscle, and organs A government publication can be found at also flows through the gums. When the www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/ gums are less than healthy, this blood 15692118?dopt=Abstract flow can pick up bacteria and carry it to the rest of the body. The veterinarTo view an article about dental connecian often begins the examination of an tion with specific health conditions animal by looking at the teeth and gums www.exceptionalpractice.com/mdnsimply because he or she knows this is health.php an indication of over all health.
Understanding gum disease is important to maintaining optimum health. Some basic facts about gum disease help put things in perspective. Some of those basics include the fact that the mouth contains over 500 different micro-organisms. Bacterial plaque left uncontrolled becomes calculus and can result in destruction of the gums and bone supporting the teeth. Decay of exposed tooth structure and loss of bone equals loss of teeth, bacteria in the blood stream, and health complications. Oral health and the connection to other health issues is a topic too involved to cover in this article. But a first step is awareness of symptoms to watch for. These include red, puffy gum tissue, bad breath, receding gums, or bleeding when brushing and flossing. What to do? Commit to an appreciation of the oral systemic connection. Then be specific with your dentist about your known and existing health conditions. Then be sure to follow your dentist’s recommendations for home care. And don’t be reluctant to discuss your oral health with your primary care physician. See your dentist or the dentist’s hygienist regularly for removal of plaque and calculus. The condition of your gums will be charted by measuring the “pockets” (gaps) around your teeth. These pockets trap and hold bacteria until the blood comes along and picks them up. In more extreme cases, your dentist may refer you to a specialty dentist called a periodontist. Call Star Dental Systems today to learn more 719-597-7979. Colorado Springs SENIOR • Spring 2010
21
O
Now is the Time!
By: Thomas S. Jennings, DDS ne of the most disheartening aspects of practicing dentistry is not being given the consent by patients to intervene with appropriate treatment at the proper time. Dental disease is, for the most part, chronic and progressive. Therefore, delays in treatment all too often trade simple and predictable treatment options today for those with more expense and less benefit in the future. This is especially troubling in the senior population, as delayed dental treatment can be further compromised by declining general health. For that reason, even the very same treatment pursued at a later date can often times have less favorable outcomes. Potential benefits can be significantly reduced when undertaken in the same person who by then has developed complicating general health issues. Dental disease can have an acute impact on quality of life, affecting chewing, eating, speaking, and social interactions. Those negative effects have been well documented. What is becoming more and more evident is the relationship between dental disease and other chronic illnesses that commonly affect mature individuals, such as cardiovascular, cerebrovascular, and diabetic conditions. With the decreases in nutritional status and psychological wellbeing, and the increases in the overall “inflammatory load” associated with dental disease, it seems reasonable that these relationships would exist. In no segment of society are health issues more critical than in the elderly, for it is in this population that deficits in quality of life are most devastating. Younger people are more able to compensate and cope, while in the senior population health conditions are more likely to escalate past their system’s ability to respond appropriately. Untreated, den-
tal disease can very easily contribute to the downturn in a senior’s general health. If you are concerned about your dental health, have general health conditions that are at risk for becoming unstable due to dental disease, are not able to chew a healthy diet of fresh foods, do not feel confident when smiling in public, or have simply not seen a dentist in more than a year, I encourage you to do so. If you are one of our valued seniors, you have worked hard to reach that position in life. You have commendably taken care of everyone else; your own parents, your children, your spouse, and likely a few others along the way. Now is the time for you to take care of yourself. You are an important member of our families and our communities. Your contributions to our society are truly invaluable, and to be your best you need to have a healthy and pleasant smile. With modern dental treatment, it is within your reach. Few investments offer as much value in terms of life-quality enhancement. It can be yours now and for years to come. If you are a patient of record in a local office and are pleased with the relationship that you have with a dentist, you should pursue that opportunity. If you are one of our family of patients, thank you for allowing us to serve you and your family. It has been a tremendous blessing to become acquainted with you and live in the Pikes Peak Region since 1987. If you do not have a positive relationship with a local office and need a dental home, please call us soon and let us help you understand the opportunities available for having the pleasing and healthy smile that you would like. In addition to treating routine restorative needs, we offer state of the art treatment for a broad
range of problems including esthetic concerns, gum disease, missing teeth (including implant replacements) and jaw joint dysfunction. We enjoy offering our skills to people who may not feel totally comfortable in the dental setting. If you have delayed treatment for that reason, please let us put you at ease. You are not alone. There are many people whose past experiences are an impediment for them. Our new office has been designed and our staff trained to not only give you the very best in modern dentistry, but to do so in a peaceful and pleasing environment. We are conveniently located near I-25 in Northern Colorado Springs and have many patients such as yourself from throughout the Front Range and Southern Colorado. Call today 719-590-7100. Our mission is to serve the dental needs of each individual patient with a commitment to excellence and integrity.
Dr. Thomas S. Jennings
2430 Research Parkway Colorado Springs, CO 80920
www.ThomasSJennings.com 22
Colorado Springs SENIOR • Spring 2010
(719) 590-7100
Finance & Insurance
Retirement Planning Understanding Your Withdrawal Alternatives
“One of the most important things to remember if you decide to leave your current employer is to investigate your options before making any final, irrevocable decisions.”
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Article courtesy of: John W. Ferguson, Jr., CLU, CFS, AIF®, Strategic Financial Partners ore than 20 mil- to a new plan. Internal Revenue Ser- tax-deferred until you begin maklion Americans cur- vice rules allow a transfer of the funds ing withdrawals. If you choose this rently participate from a 401(k) plan or other employer- option, you might want to consider in 401(k) plans sponsored plans to retirement plans of having the money rolled over directthrough their em- your new employer. This can be done ly to your new IRA account. Here’s ployers with an average account bal- even though you may not be eligible why: if you receive your lump-sum ance around $30,000. These pension for the new plan for several months. amount check first and then deposit plans can help to provide security for a When making these transfers between it, 20 percent is withheld because the comfortable retirement. It’s important employers, the investments are first IRS is assuming you’re planning to to understand, however, the tax impli- converted to cash and then the rein- cash out your entire savings. cations of these pension plans when you vestment is made. One of the most important things decide to change employers or perhaps • A third option is to withdraw all to remember if you decide to leave are a victim of corporate downsizing. or a portion of your retirement sav- your current employer is to investigate ings as a lump sum. Any remaining your options before making any final, If you’re a plan participant there are balance in your plan will continue to irrevocable decisions. You may save several alternatives available to you: grow tax-deferred. Be advised that more in the long run. you must pay federal, state, and local • You may leave all or some of your re- income taxes on the entire amount If you would like more information tirement savings with your previous em- you receive. Also, if you are under 59 on any of these topics, please contact John ployers’ plan (although some plans may ½ years old, a 10 percent IRS penalty at 719-388-0211 or jferguson@sfp.us require you to automatically rollover if for early withdrawal may apply. In your plan proceeds are $5,000 or less). addition, the IRS requires a 20 per- This information is a general discussion of the relevant federal tax laws. It is not intended for, nor can it be used by These investments are often profession- cent automatic withholding if you’re any taxpayer for the purpose of avoiding federal tax penalally managed at a lower cost than if you not rolling it over to another retire- ties. This information is provided to support the promoor marketing of ideas that may benefit a taxpayer. roll your account into an IRA. Unlike ment plan or IRA. By making a total tion Taxpayers should seek the advice of their own tax and legal an IRA, distributions are not required lump-sum withdrawal you do control advisors regarding any tax and legal issues applicable to in an employer-sponsored plan if you’re all of your assets. However, you are their specific circumstances. still working at age 70 ½ (subject to now solely responsible for managing Securities offered through Securian Financial Services, plan documents and other limitations). your money efficiently in order to Inc., member FINRA/SIPC. Strategic Financial Partners is independently owned and operated. Copyright Custom In addition, assets in 401(k) plans are meet your income needs. Communications 2009. Material in this article cannot protected in the event of bankruptcy. • Lastly, your retirement savings can be reprinted without permission. Financial Partners • A second option for your retirement be rolled over to an IRA. In this case, Strategic 1755 Telstar Drive, #501 plan savings is to transfer the money your savings continues to accumulate Colorado Springs, CO 80920
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Colorado Springs SENIOR • Spring 2010
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Finance & Insurance
Re-thinking Annuities
As part of your retirement asset allocation
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By: Michael P Carroll, CLU, ChFC, CFP® have decided that crow may not Since 1940 we never had a 10 year taste so bad after all. Since I feel period in which the S&P 500 was not compelled to eat some of it, in positive. Over the last 83 years it has a figurative sense, let me clarify. averaged a 9.7% positive return. We I thought I would be one of the are now about to end a decade that last people to ever suggest that annui- has brought about the defenestration ties might—just might—have a place of that trend. in financial planning. If I sound like These two putative assumptions I am choking a little bit it is because have literally collided and in the procrow is tough to swallow. cess destroyed the old rules of thumb The increase in the number of re- about safe withdrawal rates in retiretirees, longer lifetime expectancies, ment. When the stock market was gothe decrease in appetite for risk, and ing up every decade, and fixed income prospects for lower returns of both yields were in the 6-7% range, life was equity and fixed income, have all good. Now many people in or nearcaused people to re-think retirement ing retirement are finding gaps in their investment assumptions. Old “rules of available retirement resources. thumb” work well until the underlyTake the situation of a 65-year-old ing assumptions change. couple with $750,000 in retirement For most of the last 30 plus years, and personal savings. They will be 1970 to 2002, we had a period of rela- receiving $30,000 per year in social tively attractive fixed income (bond) security (SS) income, $20,000 from rates. During this time the 10-year the husband and $10,000 from his treasury note stayed mostly above 6%. spouse. They need a minimum of In that period we had five years, 1979- $65,000 in guaranteed annual in1984, when it was actually above come during retirement. This means 10%. The average has been over 7% their gap is $35,000 per year. If they since 1970. As a result of these higher use a risk free interest rate of 3.4%, fixed income yields one assumption they would spend all of their savings that nearly became a financial plan- in 39 years. That might be fine, but ning standard was that after 60 you there is not much left for the kids. should have the same percentage alloHowever, what if they put $500,000 cation in fixed income as your age; i.e. of the $750,000 in an immediate at 65 you should have 65% in bonds, Joint Life Annuity which paid them 70 you should have 70%, etc. This as- $31,000 per year for life? Rememsumption worked relatively well un- ber they still have $30,000 in SS intil 2003 when we began to see fixed come so they only need an additional income rates fall. Today the 10-year $4,000 annually to reach their goal of treasury yield is 3.4%. $65,000. If they invest the remaining One of the other financial plan- $250,000 in a long term balance inning assumptions we relied upon is dex fund yielding approximately 7%, that the stock market always goes up. they could pay themselves $4,000 per
year and have nearly $1.5MM after 30 years. Which is the better plan? I don’t know the answer to that question because I don’t know this fictitious couple. I am not familiar with their values regarding money or their specific goals and objectives for the future. I also do no know their health, health risk factors, or family history. But I do know that there may be alternatives available to this couple that are not addressed by our old assumptions about investment and withdrawal rates. Author Michael P Carroll is Senior Wealth Management Advisor at American National Bank and can be reached at 719-381-5659. Re-thinking Retirement Income 65 year old couple: Income needed in retirement = $65,000/yr. Social Security income of $30,000/yr. Additional Income need of $35,000/yr. Retirement Income From Current Savings Current Savings = $750,000 Risk free rate of return (10 yr, Treasury) = 3.4% Annual payment needed = $35,000 Savings will last 39 yrs. Remaining principal after 39 yrs. = $0 Retirement Income w/ Reallocation to Annuity & Investment Joint Life Immed. Annuity = $500,000 Income from annuity = $31,104/yr* Investment Account = $250,000 Rate of Return = 7% Income taken from investment account = $4,000/yr* Remaining principal after 39 yrs. = $2,756,144 *Income from annuity and investment account = $35,104/yr.
Colorado Springs SENIOR • Spring 2010
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Grow it, Keep it, Pass it on. Holmes Financial Group specializes in the most neglected phase of financial planning,
the distribution phase. With so many resources available to help build wealth, we pride ourselves in assisting our clients with how to spend it wisely.
We offer a wide variety of financial services including: Financial Planning Estate Planning Pre-Retirement Planning Post-Retirement Planning Multi-Generational Wealth Transfer Investment Planning Tax Avoidance Planning Strategies Charitable Giving Stocks, Bonds Mutual Funds REITs Variable Annuities Insurance – Long Term Care, Life, Disability, Key Man Life, Business Expense, Medicare Supplements
Thomas C. Holmes - President - MBA, CFM, CSA Thomas Holmes, is one of the leading financial advisors in Southern Colorado. Tom’s specialty is all phases of retirement planning, but specifically IRA Distribution. Tom has an MBA, is a CFM (Certified Financial Manager) and a CSA (Certified Senior Advisor) and over thirty years in the financial industry. His mission is to help educate individuals and organizations about strategies regarding retirement planning that can result in avoiding huge tax penalties. Tom’s passion for educating the public led him to write his book, “Plan to Retire on Full Pay.”
27632 Triple B Ranch Road Woodland Park, CO 80863
719-686-1110 service@holmesfinancialgroup.net
shrinertom@yahoo.com
Finance & Insurance
What are Your Investments Earning?
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By: Tom Holmes, Holmes Financial Group re your investments earn- we get older, the strategy should be to ing you at least 5.5% or reduce stock exposure (and the inhermore in annual income? ent risk in stocks) in favor of bond exEveryone I talk to today posure to create lifetime income. Please has great concerns about note, I use the term bond with referthe state of our economy and their ence to all types of fixed income investown economic future. Daily I address ment alternatives. the question, “What should I do with Reducing this risk is more impormy investments and savings?” tant than ever today and in the future. When I wrote my book Plan To Re- Investors who are over 50 years of age tire On Full Pay several years ago I used and/or retired should not have large a lot of ink to describe the importance exposures in stocks. This includes of asset allocation. Asset allocation stock mutual funds or with portfolio means that a well-designed investment managers who use stocks. portfolio should embrace a certain perBut if you are using CDs as an investcentage of stocks, bonds and cash. As ment vehicle, you might be robbing your-
self of potential income. I hear often, “But CDs are risk-free!” Are they? Today the inflation rate is approximately 3.5% while CDs are earning 1-3%. Each year the CD investor is losing money as retail prices go up and CD returns do not. I don’t consider that a risk-free investment. The income objective I use for my clients today is that it net them 5.5-7.5% in annual income. I can do this, because I use alternative income investments that maintain predictable, sustainable and increasing incomes. I can help you increase your investment performance. To learn more, call me at 719-686-1110. Colorado Springs SENIOR • Spring 2010
27
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Combining Technologies for Better Health
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Article courtesy Dr Duane Smith, owner of Natural Form ohn Wilkinson, developer of ment and evenly distribute body weight. the self adjusting, clinically The easy-to-use adjustment controls alproven, patented sleep system, low each individual to dial in individual has made it possible for you to comfort levels. The sleep system has a have a pressure-free spinal-sup luxurious quilted cover for protection ported sleep. This technology has and a quality finish. been used for several years in hospitals Dr Duane Smith, an alternative holisand nursing homes to improve comfort tic health care provider for over 30 years, and eliminate pressure points for pa- is using his experience and knowledge to tients. This system is also used in hos- combine the Natural Form Sleep System pitality facilities such as the Hilton Gar- with the whole body vibration technology den Inns world wide, which have many as an in-home “use before sleeping” procereturning guests because of the comfort dure. Its use adds not only to the quality of of their Natural Form Sleep Systems. sleep on the Natural Form Sleep System, Some of the world’s most prestigious but also facilitates healing other neurohealth care facilities such as Mt Sinai vascular conditions while sleeping. Medical Center and Lenox Hill Hospital When whole body vibration is done both of New York City, and Emory Med- on a teeter-totter style unit on low ical Center in Atlanta, Georgia as well as speeds and mild intensity, the body hundreds of acute care centers worldwide realigns and repositions itself toward have the self-adjusting technology sleep center and balance. This motion relaxes systems. Doctors who are aware of the tight sore muscles, aligns vertebrae, and many benefits of the Natural Form Sleep increases circulation. Generally one feels System, when asked, “Doctor, what mat- more balanced, relaxed, and lighter after tress do you recommend?” are quick to using the whole body vibration (WBV), recommend it to their patients. thus facilitating restful sleep. The Natural Form pressure relieving Research documents several other bensystem excels in performance because of efits beyond better rest and sleep, includthe nine individual air cylinders on each ing decreased fall risk, reduced risk of bone side of the bed, and the patented system of fracture, improved equilibrium, posture air intake and release valves. These valves control in Parkinson’s disease and unilatallow the mattress to conform precisely to eral chronic stroke victims, to name a few. a person’s unique weight and shape. There Regularly scheduled public workare no noisy air pumps, and no other gim- shops are held at the Natural Form show micky features. Just a simple, clinically room. Dr Smith gives individual, conproven technology that gently supports dition-specific instruction on the use of the body in perfect spinal alignment, no whole body vibration. Other conditions matter what the sleeping position is. such as disk degeneration, back and neck The removable and washable 100% pain, weight loss, sluggish metabolism, virgin Australian wool cover wicks mois- and lymphatic system cleansing are also ture from the body, thus keeping it warm addressed. in the winter and cool in the summer. A Experience has shown that regular three inch foam topper rests on the air use of the whole body vibration protocol cylinders to further enhance body align- as taught by Dr Smith, promote speedy
“Some of the world’s most prestigious health care facilities such as Mt Sinai Medical Center and Lenox Hill Hospital both of New York City, and Emory Medical Center in Atlanta, Georgia as well as hundreds of acute care centers worldwide have the self-adjusting technology sleep systems.” improvement in overall health, wellness, and function: while the Natural Form sleep systems allows for the best possible night’s sleep giving your body the energy it needs to cope with stress, solve problems and recover from illness. To personally experience either system, or to be assessed to find out how you might benefit from their use, call Dr Smith at 719-210-5914 or email him at duane. smith@vibeforlife.com. For whole body vibration information call 888-639-7750 or visit www.vibeforlife.com Colorado Springs SENIOR • Spring 2010
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Reflect and Renew A retirement celebration, the birth of a grandchild, the wedding of someone dear. These are the moments that prompt us to reflect on the past and imagine the future. As Pikes Peak Hospice & Palliative Care marks its 30-year anniversary, we find ourselves doing just that. For three decades, we have provided care and comfort to thousands of neighbors, family members and friends. We’ve relied on the good deeds of countless employees, volunteers, partners and donors. And as we turn to the future, we renew the promise we made to this community 30 years ago: Providing exceptional care, and bringing relief, comfort and control to those affected by serious or life-limiting illness.
Please contact us to find out how Pikes Peak Hospice & Palliative Care can help you or someone you love.
(719) 633-3400 825 E. Pikes Peak Ave., Ste. 600 Colorado Springs, CO 80903 www.pikespeakhospice.org
Honored to Serve the Pikes Peak Region Since 1980
Home Health & Hospice
Integrative Therapies Complement Traditional Medical Care
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Article courtesy of Pikes Peak Hospice & Palliative Care ospice philosophy in turn, reduces aches and pains. Massage blends unique ser- also helps with pain and stress managevices that address the ment and overall relaxation. physical, emotional, • Reflexology provides gentle pressure to and spiritual needs the feet or hands to restore a state of balof those living with terminal illness. ance and relaxation. Care is focused on the management of • Reiki (pronounced ray-key) uses “laypain and symptoms rather than cure- ing on hands” providing a gentle touch oriented therapies and interventions. for energy flow. A number of other It is patient-centered and emphasizes touch modalities may also be appropricomfort, peace and quality of life. ate for some hospice patients. Complementary Therapies have a simi- • Aroma Therapy is the use of therapeuticlar focus and are often utilized in hospice grade essential oils extracted from plants to care. These therapies are non-drug symp- relieve physical and emotional symptoms. tom management tools that work together This therapy aids hospice patients in the with or complement conventional medi- management of symptoms such as anxicine and are administered by professional ety, pain, nausea, edema, and emotional therapists and specially trained volun- issues. Formulations are individually preteers. Medical research has demonstrated pared to address specific symptoms. The that they can be instrumental in relieving oils can be diluted and applied to the skin stress, decreasing pain, and adding qual- with massage or by inhaling the scent. ity to one’s remaining days. Hospice pro- • Pet Therapy involves specially trained hufessionals can guide patients in making man-animal teams who visit patients and informed decisions about their care and family members to provide a special kind incorporating Complementary Therapies of love and affection. Contact with dogs into a comprehensive plan of care. and other animals can calm or lift spirits Dr W Nat Timmins, Chief Medical unlike other forms of communication. It Officer at Pikes Peak Hospice & Palliative can provide a moment of joy, bring back Care says that pharmaceutical solutions a cherished memory, or even help facilitate are just one way to manage pain. “In case the expression of thoughts or emotions. after case, I’ve seen integrative therapies, Touching and interacting with animals prolike massage, aromatherapy, and pet ther- vides stress relief and has even been shown apy, make a real difference in a patient’s to help lower a person’s blood pressure. physical and emotional comfort.” • Music Therapy lets musicians use the universal language of music to soothe, Complementary Therapies often utilized inspire and bring joy to patients, famiin hospice care include: lies and friends. Soothing sounds can • Touch Therapies which incorporate mas- ease physical pain, agitation, sleeplesssage and other types of touch modalities ness and spiritual and emotional sufferto help with a patient’s level of pain and ing for patients and their loved ones. stress. Touch Therapies offer the physical • Additional Complementary Therapies and emotional benefits of human touch. that are often used in hospice settings • Massage Therapy includes a multitude include Acupuncture, Hypnotherapy, of massage therapy techniques that offer Art Therapy, and other activities that numerous benefits for hospice patients. use creative outlets and provide time for Tight muscles are softened and relaxed reflection, such as meditation or prayer resulting in improved circulation which, to relax the body and mind.
The cost of providing complementary therapies is not funded by hospice insurance benefits, so the availability of services varies dramatically from hospice to hospice. The ability to cover the cost of offering Complementary Therapies often comes from donations from the community and in-kind services provided by licensed professionals. Kori Schaulis, LMT, Complementary Therapies Coordinator at Pikes Peak Hospice & Palliative Care concludes, “As a licensed massage therapist, I understand the importance of touch and its benefits for patients. And, we develop a special bond with the hospice patients who need our services. It is uplifting.” To learn more, you can contact Pikes Peak Hospice & Palliative Care at 719633-3400 or visit our website at www. pikespeakhosice.org.
“Contact with dogs and other animals can calm or lift spirits unlike other forms of communication. It can provide a moment of joy, bring back a cherished memory, or even help facilitate the expression of thoughts or emotions.” Colorado Springs SENIOR • Spring 2010
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The Road to a Satisfying Sex Life
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Article courtesy of Heather Sutton Walsh, MD, PhD xperts and popular culture cular disease: smoking, high blood presall agree: better sex and bet- sure, and high cholesterol. Women with ter intimacy lead to overall hypertension may have decreased vagiwell being. However, many nal lubrication, decreased orgasm, and women do not have a fully increased pain. Some antihypertensive satisfying sexual life, and a majority of medications can induce sexual dysfuncthem do not seek help from their doc- tion in otherwise normally functioning tors. Many factors contribute to our si- patients. Experts theorize that women lence related to sexual health, but chief with diabetes may experience decreased among these is the idea that we are the sexual function due to neuropathy, horonly one with our particular problem. mone changes, and vascular disease. Many factors affect female sensuality. Women with diabetes may also have Masters and Johnson created a model of decreased vaginal lubrication, decreased normal sexual function that described a orgasm, and increased pain with interprogression from excitement, to plateau, course. Sexual problems related to cancer can develop after surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, hormonal manipulation, and medications. Married women are at higher risk for depression than nonmarried women. Depressed women are at risk for sexual disorders. Another mental health issue that affects sexual function to orgasm, and then resolution. Today, is chronic and acute stress. the sexual model proposed by Rosemary Relationship variables, attitudes towards Basson is considered more representa- sex and aging, and cultural background tive of female sexuality. Basson described have a greater impact on sexual function women’s desire as a response to intimacy than hormones and aging. Indeed, it has and sexual stimulation. Some women do been shown that a good relationship pronot necessarily have a strong desire to have tects against sexual decline in menopause. sex, but once they are stimulated by a lov- While hormones (estrogen and testostering partner, desire develops. one) are important in maintaining normal Medical barriers to sexual well-being sexual function in women, the extent is still most often develop from chronic disease, unclear. Aging will naturally lead to a deespecially coronary heart disease, diabe- cline in sexual activity, and a decline in hortes, depression, and cancer, or hormonal mone levels can lead to a decline in desire, issues that may or may not be related to vaginal atrophy, and/or delayed orgasm. increasing age, and side effects of mediThere is controversy regarding the cations. These conditions can interfere sexual effects of hormonal contracepwith all aspects of sexual functioning. tion. Some research reports an increase Female sexual dysfunction is related in desire with oral contraceptive use, to the same risk factors as coronary vas- while others show little to no change, 32
Colorado Springs SENIOR • Spring 2010
and still others show decreased desire. Some prescription medications improve sexual function, while others impair it. Common medications that may impair sexual function include antidepressants, antihistamines, antihypertensives, antipsychotics, anti-anxiety meds, cardiovascular agents, and chemotherapy. Relationship and communication barriers are also frequent sources of female sexual problems. The ability of partners to have conversations about intimate issues such as lubrication, sexual self image, body image, and clitoral stimulation is the foundation of sexual health in committed relationships. Couples need to understand that long-term sexual relationships are complicated and change over time. As individuals change, the couple’s relationship changes, and there may be gender differences in feelings and thoughts about sexuality. To be successful in long term relationships, it is critical for couples to have interactive skills to build sexual communication and sexual technique compatibility, and to learn how to successfully manage health, psychological, and life stage issues. Female sexuality experts agree there should be a focus on the more positive aspects of sexuality for women. Your doctor should be willing to have open, frank discussions about any sexual concerns you may have. He or she can offer help for sexual problems and also assist those without sexual problems who simply wish to enhance their sexual lives. Since sexual problems usually involve both medical and psychological issues, these problems need careful assessment. Treatment for any underlying disorders is important, as is consideration for referral to a sex therapist. Lubricants can be recommended to reduce sexual discomfort and potentially enhance feelings of sensuality and intimacy. These products may help women overcome medical and psychological barriers to sexual well-being.
home modification
Aging-In-Place Remodeling
Holladay Brothers Construction, An Industry Leader:
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By: Alison Baity, Holladay Brothers Construction olladay Brothers Con- bility and safety issues. We work with struction, Inc (HBC) in-home health care providers and has been providing family members to better understand home repairs for a each senior’s needs, and provide qualvery special part of our ity, trustworthy remodeling services. community for the past six months: the The Holladay Brothers Construcforgotten and neglected seniors living at tion, Inc team has found incredible home in the Pikes Peak region. joy in helping seniors through this inWith federal grant money received volvement in our community. We have under the Older Americans Act (OAA), Holladay Brothers Construction, Inc has “Our consultants are patched walls, stopped toilets from falling professionally trained through rotten floors, provided heat and Certified Aging in Place hot water, made numerous repairs, and installed a multitude of grab bars. HBC (CAPS) Specialists, has also remodeled many homes for disfocusing on mobility and abled veterans as a preferred contractor safety issues.” with the Veteran’s Administration. In the meantime, we have increased our expertise in aging-in-place modifi- worked closely with charitable organications and have become the Colorado zations in Colorado Springs that focus Springs leader in remodeling for se- on helping seniors with basic food and niors. Our consultants are profession- shelter needs. We have learned that the ally trained Certified Aging in Place best way to find an organization is by (CAPS) Specialists, focusing on mo- calling 2-1-1, the Pikes Peak United
Way referral hotline. We have also realized that it is essential for individuals in our community to help seniors living at home. There are far more needy seniors than local organizations can take care of, and with diminishing federal funding we can’t rely on charities and government agencies to identify and help them all. Perhaps there is a senior living next door to you who could use your help. You might offer to shovel their walk, do some yard work, spend time with them, or bring them a meal. Check with your neighbors to see what you can do. If you would like safety or accessibility modifications or remodeling in your home, call the most experienced contractor in senior home remodeling, Holladay Brothers Construction, Inc at 719-596-7161 for a free, inhome estimate. Author Alison Baity is the Public Relations Manager for Holladay Brothers Construction, Inc and may be reached at (719) 596-7161
Home modifications simply improve your quality of life. • Increase your home’s value with state-of-the-art functionality of easy to reach kitchen cabinetry and walk-in showers. • A few simple and discreet modifications can help you enjoy your home indefinitely. • Our Certified Aging in Place Specialists (CAPS) provide free consultation, helping you select home improvements that match your desires and your budget.
H olladay B rothers C onstruction Inc. “From Concept to Completion” TM
Call Holladay Brothers Construction, Inc. today for a Free Estimate
Ph: (719) 596-7161 216 Auburn Dr. Colorado Springs, CO 80909 www.holladaybros.com
Colorado Springs SENIOR • Spring 2010
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strength
compassion
hope
innovation
expertise
Thirty-three percent. That’s one-third. And that’s how much faster you’ll get treated for cardiac care.
Our cardiac treatment time is 33% faster than the national benchmark. In life’s most critical moments, you deserve the best care possible whenever and wherever you need it. And at Penrose-St. Francis Health Services, we’re ready to respond immediately. Our heart attack patients receive care in 60 minutes or less,* a full 33% faster than the American College of Cardiology national benchmark. When every minute counts, trust your care to the area’s leading cardiac care hospital. Ranked by HealthGrades as #1 in Colorado for Overall Critical Care for 2010, we are also part of the state’s largest network of care, with a system of interconnected emergency and trauma resources including Flight For Life. To learn more about how your local hospitals compare in cardiac care, visit penrosestfrancis.org.
*Based on 2009 Centers for Medicaid and Medicare Services (CMS) patient data.
Centura Health complies with the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and no person shall be excluded from participation in, be denied benefits of, or otherwise be subjected to discrimination in the provision of any care or service on the grounds of race, religion, color, sex, national origin, sexual preference, ancestry, age, familial status, disability or handicap. Copyright © Centura Health, 2010 32919 02/10
Hospitals
Stick with It !
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Heart Rehabilitation
By: Chris Valentine, Penrose-St. Francis Health Services ven though he was only 56 going assessments and referral to nutriyears old, Dennis knew that tionist and other professionals based on the heavy pressure he was an individual’s needs. People who have feeling in his chest was prob- had open heart surgery, heart transably a heart attack. A call to plants, heart attacks, stents and even 911 was all it took to put the lifesaving people with stable angina are recomprocess in motion. Paramedics arrived at mended to participate in the program. his home in just a few minutes. An EKG At Penrose-St Francis Health Serconfirmed he was having a heart attack vices, patients enrolled in cardiac reand the results were faxed to the hos- hab come to the hospital an average of pital. By the time he arrived at Penrose three times a week for as many as 36 Hospital, the heart team was waiting for sessions to participate in monitored him. Only 30 minutes later, doctors had physical activity. They may walk on a opened the blockage in his heart. treadmill, use a stationary bike, work Dennis did the right thing by call- with appropriate weights or even pracing 911 right away. Cardiologists will tice relaxation techniques. Throughout tell you that “time is muscle” and the the session, individuals are on a heart longer treatment is delayed, the more monitor so the nurses can monitor damage is done to your heart. Now, their heart and help them understand Dennis was faced with the reality that how hard they are working. he had to bounce back from this event “The program teaches you to exand make some changes in his life to ercise at a level that benefits your prevent another heart attack. heart,” said Dennis. “While I was still in the hospital But cardiac rehab is more than just recovering, the nurse on the floor ex- exercise. Participants meet one-on-one plained the recovery process to me and with professionals to talk about diet, the benefits of cardiac rehabilitation,” lifestyle, medications and more. Ofsaid Dennis. “She even scheduled my ten, this is the first time that patients evaluation for me.” truly understand what it means to eat Dennis was fortunate to have a nurse right and make lifestyle changes that who explained the rehabilitation process can benefit their heart such as smokto him. Research shows that only about ing cessation or stress reduction. one-third of heart patients even try Does cardiac rehab work? The numcardiac rehabilitation. A recent study, bers don’t lie. In the first six weeks of published in December 2009, shows the program, Dennis lost 20 pounds that patients who participate in cardiac and dropped his cholesterol level by rehabilitation and complete the rec- more than 60 points. Not everyone ommended number of sessions are less will see changes this dramatic but of likely to die or suffer another heart at- the 300 people a year who participate tack in the following three to four years in the program at Penrose, those who than people who complete only a few stick with the program do see changes sessions of cardiac rehabilitation. in their overall health. So what is cardiac rehabilitation? It “So, if you or someone you love experiis a comprehensive program of exercise, ences a significant heart related event, talk risk factor modification, education, on- to your doctor, nurse or health care pro-
vider to see if cardiac rehabilitation is right for you,” said Helen Graham RN-C, manager of the cardiac rehabilitation program at Penrose-St Francis Health Services. For more information about heart disease, signs and symptoms of a heart attack, or to just speak with a nurse about your heart health, contact Ask-A-Nurse at 719776-5555
File of Life The File of Life is a mini medical history posted on the outside of a refrigerator or carried in one’s wallet which enables medics to obtain a quick medical history when a patient is unable to offer one. The personal wallet size version is an invaluable resource to emergency medical teams responding to critical, life-threatening situations outside the home. The file lists the patient name, emergency medical contact, insurance policy, social security number, health problems, medications, dosages, allergies, recent surgery, religion and a health care proxy. To request your free File of Life, please call 719776-6207
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The Beacon Award honors excellence in acute and critical care nursing. It’s been awarded to only 188 of 6,000 intensive care units in the United States. Memorial is proud to be one of them.
Hospitals
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Beacon Award
By: Erin Emery, Memorial Health System n the Intensive Care Unit at Me- it recognizes our staff for their quality morial Health System, a multi-dis- of care,” said Suzanne Golden, clinical ciplinary team of medical profes- manager for Memorial’s intensive care sionals care for Colorado Springs’ units at Memorial Hospital Central and sickest of the sick. Every day on the Memorial Hospital North. unit, patients fight for their lives, whether ICU units are evaluated on 42 crithey’re suffering from a brain aneurism or teria in six categories: patient outcomes; pneumonia. What often makes a difference evidence-based practice and research; in the outcome is the level of care that they leadership and organizational ethics; exreceive. The skill of the care giver—usually cellence and innovation in recruitment a registered nurse—is pivotal. and retention; education, training and Last fall, Memorial’s ICU team re- mentoring; and promoting healing enviceived the coveted Beacon Award for ronments. For instance, one of the criteCritical Care Excellence from the Amer- ria measures a patient’s length-of-stay in ican Association of Critical-Care Nurses. the intensive care unit. At Memorial, the The award is given to the top intensive average length-of-stay for a patient is 3.1 care units in the country that have met days, compared with a national average rigorous standards for excellence. of 3.5-to-four days. “The longer a person Memorial’s ICU is the only inten- is in intensive care, the higher the death sive care unit in southern Colorado to rate,” Golden said. “The longer a person win the award. In Colorado, only two is in intensive care, the greater the chance other hospitals—Presbyterian St Luke’s complications may develop. Critical care Medical Center in Denver and Poudre is meant to get you over that acute critiValley Hospital in Fort Collins—have cal period to save your life.” received the award. In the United At Memorial, a multi-disciplinary States, only 188 of 6,000 intensive team—nurses, physicians, spiritual care care units have earned the award. providers, physical therapists, occupation“I’m very proud of the award because al therapists, dietitians, social workers and critical care pharmacists— work together to provide highest quality care. “Every day, they see patients on their rounds. They talk to families, they review the chart. The multi-disciplinary team provides insight into how we may best care for the patient,” Golden said. “No one can know everything about a patient, it is the team that makes the patient better.” “We have an incredible balance of knowledge and At Memorial, 115 proyears of service,” Wilcox said. “We love our jobs, we love the stress. Receiving the award has boosted our fessionals are assigned to morale. We’re proud to be a Beacon unit.” work with the vulnerable - Nancy Wilcox, R.N. patients in the ICU; 90
of them are registered nurses. Working as an ICU nurse is one of the most challenging and rewarding professions in the health system, the nurses say. “In the unit, you are the person standing between life and death, it’s you,” said Larry Edwards, a critical care registered nurse with 20 years experience. “It’s a tremendous obligation that you have to your patient, the family and your colleagues. It is a comfort knowing that your expertise makes a difference in a patient’s life.” ICU nurses also try to comfort frightened family members by helping them understand what is happening to a patient and why certain care is being provided. “We treat the patient and the family,” Edwards said. “We try to calm the family. We know that they are feeling powerless. Their loved one almost looks alien, hooked up to so many wires. But patients can sense when their family is upset, so we try to calm the family and give them comfort.” Edwards said that most patients don’t know anything more about an intensive care unit than what they’ve seen on television shows like ER or Grey’s Anatomy. “We let them know that what you see on television is not realistic. The patient won’t recover in 60 minutes,” Edwards adds. Earning the coveted Beacon Award is a source of pride for Memorial’s ICU team. Nancy Wilcox, a critical care registered nurse, said that most of the nurses on the unit have at least five years experience and many have more than 10. “We have an incredible balance of knowledge and years of service,” Wilcox said. “We love our jobs, we love the stress. Receiving the award has boosted our morale. We’re proud to be a Beacon unit.” Author Erin Emery is in the Communications & Marketing department of Memorial Health System. Colorado Springs SENIOR • Spring 2010
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A Great Start to Re-Claiming Independence
Rehabilitation assessments in the comforts of home By: Lisa Hinton, MS, CCC-SLP troke. It can happen in the blink of an eye. Yet, patients often return home after treatment, hoping life will return to normal, only to face the harsh realities of a physical decline. This may be the time for an evaluation to see if you could benefit from rehabilitation in an inpatient acute care
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setting. These assessments are completed free of charge, and can be done in your own home, keeping you safe and comfortable. HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital of Colorado Springs offers a home admission program, evaluating to see if you qualify for rehabilitation or additional therapy and treatments.
H e a l t h S o u t h h o m e r e f e r r a l s p u t yo u one step closer to
Home.
After you’ve returned home following an accident or injury, you may learn that you could still benefit from continued rehabilitation in an inpatient setting. The easiest way to find out is through a free in-home assessment from HealthSouth -- no physician order needed. Once an evaluation is approved, HealthSouth’s team of professionals work with physicians and families to develop comprehensive, individualized and cost-effective treatment plans for our inpatient hospital, with a focus on reaching maximum outcomes for a safe return home. Services include: s Physical, occupational and speech therapy s Disease management and special clinical programs: - Brain injury - Stroke - General debility - Multiple sclerosis - Parkinson’s disease - Recovery from fall injuries - Spinal cord injury - Stroke recovery - Total joint replacement - Arthritis - Rheumatoid diseases - Neurological conditions - Amputation - Orthopedic conditions We understand the impact quality rehabilitation services can have on your life. So, if a home referral could benefit you, call HealthSouth Rehabilitation Hospital of Colorado Springs at 719 630-2308.
A Higher Level of Care
0ARKSIDE $RIVE s #OLORADO 3PRINGS #/ s healthsouth.com
©2009:HealthSouth:708715-02
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Colorado Springs SENIOR • Spring 2010
Like stroke, many other conditions are accepted by HealthSouth’s home referral program for admission, including general debilitation, Parkinson’s disease or multiple sclerosis with functional decline, and back, pelvis or lower extremity fracture causing loss of function. Once you are accepted into HealthSouth’s inpatient program, its team focuses on helping you achieve your greatest functioning abilities through an individualized targeted plan for a higher quality of life. Patients stay an average of 12 days at our hospital. At HealthSouth, you can expect: • Daily Physician Visits: Patients are evaluated daily by a board-certified physiatrist. These are physicians who specialize in physical medicine and rehabilitation. • Certified Rehabilitation RNs: HealthSouth patients have round-the- clock supervision from certified rehabilitation registered nurses. • Three hours of therapy at least 5 days/week: Therapy is provided by seasoned physical, occupational and speech therapists. • Bi-weekly team conferences: Each patient’s physician, therapists, case manager and nurse meet to consult on progress made by the patient on a bi-weekly basis. Although a stroke and other medical conditions can be life changing, they don’t have to change a life, at least when proper rehabilitation is in place. Questions and referrals can be made to the HealthSouth Hospital of Colorado Springs’ home admission program by calling 719-630-2308
Pharmacies & Equipment
Eye Health & Cataracts
An Ounce of Prevention is Worth a Pound of Cure
By: Jerry Gillick, College Pharmacy RPh ataracts, the most common lenses. DMSO is a natural solvent that can cause of age-related vision loss, carry other drugs with it across membranes, can be prevented, treated, and enhancing the delivery of companion inperhaps even reversed. While surgery is gredients. And research has shown that catthe most common treatment for remov- aracts can begin when vitamin C becomes ing cataracts, prevention is the better deficient. The sclera of the eye is dependent course. In addition to modifications in on this vitamin good health. “Dr Rowen’s diet and lifestyle, the use of select nutritional eye drops has enabled many people to help prevent and treat cataracts. Cataracts are caused by free radicals that cause oxidation and an aging process that is similar to the hardening of arteries. Other causes include food allergies, side-effects of prescription drugs, smoking, diabetes, arthritis, heart disease, poor nutrition, alcohol consumption, and genetics. Whether you are trying to prevent or treat existing cataracts, a diet high in protein, vitamin A, niacin, thiamin, and riboflavin has been associated with a reduction of cataracts on the inner part of the lens (nuclear cataracts). Once cataracts appear, doctors may recommend taking supplements that include glutathione, vitamin C, alpha-lipoic acid, and selenium. Lifestyle changes can also have a positive impact on eye health. Changes include reducing or eliminating caffeine and sodas, eliminating deep-fried foods, limiting alcohol consumption and smoking, and daily exercise. A simple eye-drop formulation, made popular by Dr Robert Rowen, MD has also shown promise in the prevention and treatment of cataracts. Known as “Dr Rowen’s Eye Drops”, the formula contains DMSO, glutathione, and vitamin C. All three ingredients have powerful antioxidant properties that battle free radicals and are important nutrients in overall eye health. Eyes deficient in glutathione are more susceptible to cataracts and other eye diseases and contain approximately one-fifth the amount of glutathione compared to normal
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Eye Drops” are available with a prescription through College Pharmacy. For more information about Dr Rowen’s Eye Drops, or to speak to a pharmacist about vitamin supplements for eye health, contact College Pharmacy at 719-262-0022
Colorado Springs SENIOR • Spring 2010
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Back Pain Relief
Pain relief found at Summit Spine and Disc Center
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By: Jeffrey Keller, D.C. on-Surgical Spinal Decompression Therapy is a painless, non-surgical therapy proven to help people suffering from chronic and severe neck pain, back pain, sciatica, stenosis, bulging/herniated and degenerated discs. Dr. Jeffrey Keller, D.C. has provided this state-of-the art treatment for residents of El Paso County and surrounding communities for the past 4 1/2 years and he's been very impressed with the results. How does Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression work? Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression allows patients to achieve relief from severe back pain by gently reducing the pressure within spinal discs. The treatment motion is computer controlled to provide gentle and painless decompression of the injured spinal discs. As the vertebrae are separated, pressure is slowly reduced within the disc until a vacuum is formed. This vacuum “pulls” the jelly-like center of the disc back
Before
After
In the before picture you can see the herniated disc (black) protruding into the nerve tissue (white, center of MRI). After Decompression treatment, the MRI shows the herniated disc is no longer bulging into the nerves. 40 40
Colorado Springs SENIOR 2010 • Spring 2010 $44 t FALL/WINTER
inside thereby reducing the disc bulge or disc herniation. By reducing the disc bulge, we are able to reduce pressure off the spinal nerves which are so close to the disc. This process drastically reduces pain and disability. The “sucking” vacuum also pulls much-needed oxygen, nutrients and fluid into the disc.
“86% of all patients with damaged discs experienced pain relief from the procedure of lumbar decompression.” – American Journal of Pain Management
Is treatment painful? Treatment is non-invasive and therefore typically not painful. Most patients leave the office with hope and relief due to reduction in pain. When can I expect pain relief? Everyone reacts differently depending on their diagnosis but many will feel a difference after the 1st treatment. That’s right, after one treatment we’ve seen remarkable results. It is not uncommon for patients to leave the office with significant pain relief.
Spinal Decompression creates a negative pressure or a vacuum inside the disc. This effect causes the disc to pull in the herniation and the increase in negative pressure also causes the flow of blood and nutrients back into the disc allowing the body's natural fibroblastic response to heal the injury and re-hydrate the disc. Traction and inversion tables, at best, can lower the intradiscal pressure from a +90 to a +30 mmHg. Spinal Decompression however, is clinically proven to reduce the intradiscal pressure to a range between -150 to -200 mmHg.
How do I know that treatment at Summit Spine & Disc Center is right for me? “I know that people are skeptical, especially if they’ve tried several options with no success. We have literally helped hundreds of people find pain relief and healing. If you are suffering from pain or have lost hope, I invite you to find solutions at Summit Spine and Disc Center. I am so confident that we can help that I’m offering a free evaluation and two free visits to all who call and mention this article. You will be able to experience first hand the most advanced non-surgical medical equipment for disc problems available. There is no risk and you have nothing to lose except your pain.” —Dr. Jeffrey Keller, D.C.
Can Spinal Decompression be used for patients that have had spinal surgery? In most cases Spinal Decompression treatment is not contra-indicated for patients who have had spinal surgery. In fact many patients have found success with Spinal Decompression after a failed back surgery.
Patient Testimonial “I was suffering from severe pain in my lower back. The pain got worse over the course of 6 years, and was only controlled by taking an excess of 300mg of morphine daily. I was unable to walk much less participate in any ‘activities’ other than sedentary ones. I began treatment in August 2005.
pain MANAGEMENT management PAIN
The staff in the office is phenomenal!! There was never a time when I felt there was a lack of caring or understanding. Since the first time I was on ‘the machine’ I have had minimal pain. I am able to walk, hike, shop, eat meals out in restaurants, travel and ride in cars for long periods of time and most importantly, sleep without pain!” —Cheryl Thomas
Patient Testimonial “Since even existing became extremely painful, I was very frustrated and not a very fun person to be around. My whole life was different. Everything I enjoyed, woodworking, basketball, golf, dancing with my wife, roughhousing with my kids, was almost completely out of the question. To anyone hesitating to start NonSurgical Decompression I would say I too had serious concerns. I am still amazed that I went through with it and still pinch myself when I stop and think about how great it has worked for me. With an 86% success rate I had to try just for the chance to get my life back!” —Kevin Basham
Find hope and freedom from PAIN. The latest Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression treatment protocols have been demonstrated by scientific research to be 86% to 89% effective for pain relief. Along with a substantial reduction in pain, one of the immediate effects of spinal decompression is an improvement in patient's mobility. You really can live pain-free and improve the quality of your life. S Call Dr. Jeffrey Keller, D.C. today to schedule a free consultation and get 2 Free Visits (first 25 callers) Summit Spine & Disc Center 1741 Briargate Blvd Colorado Springs, CO 80920 719-387-4506 www.drxbackrelief.com
You really can live pain free. Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression has helped our patients avoid surgery and spinal injections, reduce pain and really live again.
CALL TODAY
719-387-4506 2 Free Visits (first 25 callers)
SUMMITÊSPINEÊ&ÊDISCÊCENTERÊ 1741 Briargate Blvd, Colorado Springs, CO
www.drxbackrelief.com
Colorado Springs SENIOR 2010 • Spring 2010 $44 t FALL/WINTER
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ain g a ife l r ou y to k c ba u o ty e g o t Here for you
.
Managing all pain, specializing in the treatment of back, neck, and leg pain. Advanced pain therapy utilizing laser guidance, sophisticated imaging, and neuromodulation (spinal cord and peripheral nerve stimulation). Leading Colorado Springs for over 25 years with innovative pain therapy. Now offering the newest treatment for spinal stenosis: The MILD procedure, (minimally invasive Springs SENIOR • Spring 2010 42 Colorado lumbar decompression.)
W.L. Lippert, M.D. Board Certified in Pain Management and Anesthesiology. Sisters Grove Pavilion 6011 E. Woodmen Rd. Suite 365 Colorado Springs, CO 80923
719-380-PAIN (7246)
“MILD”
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By: Lary Lippert, MD he vast majority of people in the US will experience low back or leg pain sometime in their lives. Some will go on to have chronic pain and in those over 50 years of age the diagnosis will be often be central spinal canal stenosis. The diagnosis of spinal stenosis is dreaded because it causes pain when standing or walking. Yes, when people are trying to exercise, work, or enjoy an active lifestyle is precisely when stenosis stops them in their tracks and makes them sit. So what is this spinal stenosis and what do we do about it? First, “stenosis” is a word that means narrowing. In spinal stenosis, narrowing occurs in the boney spine that holds the spinal cord and nerves. This narrowing is usually caused by a combination of things, including contributions from discs, facet joints, and excess yellow ligament. As we age, our discs degenerate and flatten out. This disc degeneration is largely responsible for our becoming shorter as we age. As our discs “pancake”, the disc invades the inside of the canal making things tighter. Facet joints are located on the back of the spine and comprise some of the back wall of the canal. As we accumulate arthritis, those joints become more prominent and occupy space. Lastly, the yellow ligament (also called the ligamentum flavum) located in the extreme backside of the spinal canal, becomes “fatter” as we age and adds to the closing off of our spinal canal. These anatomic findings are identified with MRI or CT myelogram studies. Classically, stenosis causes pain when standing or walking and is relieved when sitting, leaning forward or lying down. The pain is sometimes called pseudogenic or neurogenic claudication, which refers to pain in the legs with walking. This terminology is derived from the leg pain that people with vascular disease get with activity called vascular claudication.
Physicians
The New Solution for Spinal Stenosis!
Treatment for stenosis is initially conservative, using medications and physical therapy. Medications will typically include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications and other mild analgesics. If the pain does not respond then the analgesics will often be strengthened and patients may be sent for epidural steroid injections (see “Putting Out the Fire”, page 49, Fall/Winter 2009 issue of SENIOR Magazine). This combination of treatments will typically offer significant reduction in pain. Epidurals will reduce pain from stenosis usually in a highly predictable fashion. What is also predictable is that the pain will usually return some time in the future after injection. If the duration of relief is substantial (for example greater than three months) then repeat injections can be performed in a palliative fashion. The frequency of injections and decision to repeat will be based on pain relief obtained, degree of disability without injection, relative risk of the injections and cost. For the patients who fail to respond to conservative therapy, our only alternative was to proceed with open surgery if the degree of disability was substantial and the patient’s medical health allowed it. The key word here is “was” because now we have an intermediate step in the treatment of stenosis. While surgery remains an extremely important and vital method of restoring function and reducing pain in the most severe
cases of spinal stenosis, our new intermediate weapon is called MILD. MILD stands for Minimally Invasive Lumbar Decompression. This procedure involves no surgical incision nor instrumentation. After local anesthesia with minimal sedation, small instruments are placed in the back through a nick in the skin. With these instruments, small amounts of bone and significant amounts of ligamentum flavum are removed. The procedure typically will take less than an hour and if the patient wishes he or she can go home the same day. There are few restrictions after surgery and patients can return to work or activity in a just few days. Since this is a brand new procedure we do not have long term data as yet. The preliminary studies however are looking very promising with an average reduction in pain and increase in mobility of 70% or more. If you are not benefited by the procedure as hoped, no “bridges are burned” and you can pursue surgery or any other mode of treatment desired. With the general aging of our population and the Boomers coming of age, we are sorely (no pun intended) in need of a less invasive, safer and less expensive means of dealing with this disease. The MILD procedure might be one of those means. For more information on “MILD” and to schedule an appointment with Dr. Lippert, please call his office at 719-380-7246. Colorado Springs SENIOR • Spring 2010
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Associates in Gastroenterology, P.C. Endoscopy Center of Colorado Springs, LLC.
We strive to be a physician practice dedicated to state-of-the-art care for patients with gastrointestinal and liver diseases.
Richard Wenham, MD Erik Van Os, MD William Lunt, MD James Howden, MD Austin Garza, MD Karin Cesario, MD Michelle Barnett, PA-C
We perform most endoscopic procedures, including:
Colonoscopy Upper endoscopy (EGD) ERCP Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)
We accept most major insurances including Medicare. Please call to inquire if we accept your particular insurance.
2940 N. Circle Drive
Colorado Springs, CO 80909
www.agcosprings.com 44
Colorado Springs SENIOR • Spring 2010
(719) 635-7321
Physicians
Diverticulosis
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What You Need to Know
By: William W Lunt, MD iverticulosis is an extremely common disorder with an increased prevalence as a person ages. At age 40 only 10% of Americans have diverticula, which increases to 40% by age 60 and finally up to 70% as people reach the 80s. Most individuals remain completely asymptomatic, never knowing they have diverticula. Of those with diverticula, only 2530% will experience any complication which manifests as either an infection or bleeding. What is and what causes diverticulosis? The large bowel, or colon, comprises the last five feet of the total 25-30 feet of human intestines. The colon wall is intrinsically weak and over time small pouches may begin to bulge outward through weak spots in the wall. These small pouches in the colon wall are termed diverticula, or diverticulosis. When complications occur from these pouches it is termed diverticular disease. These pouches can become quite numerous (up to hundreds) and vary in size, at times becoming quite large. They usually occur in the lower colon, called the sigmoid, but infrequently extend throughout the colon. The exact cause of diverticulosis is unknown, but is thought to be due to increased pressure within the colon lumen and affects men and women equally. These pouches occur more often in patients who are constipated or have diets that are low in fiber. Diver-
ticulosis is also seen more commonly in obese or sedentary individuals. Diverticulosis is uncommon in countries that consume high fiber foods such as Asia and Africa. What problems occur with diverticulosis? Most people with diverticulosis have no symptoms at all, but few may experience such complaints as left lower abdominal crampy pain, nausea, bloating and rarely bowel changes such as constipation or diarrhea. It is difficult to tell whether these problems are due to diverticulosis or underlying irritable bowel syndrome or other chronic conditions. In 15-25% of individuals with diverticulosis inflammation can occur in the pouches. The exact reason for this is unknown, but may cause more severe diffuse lower abdominal pain, nausea, fever and chills. If this continues, infection can set in possibly leading to a pus pocket or abscess which weakens the colon wall further and if untreated, perforation of the colon wall may occur. These symptoms may occur suddenly or over several days. If caught early, oral antibiotic usually correct the infection. If it progresses however, hospitalization with intravenous antibiotics and possibly surgical resection of the effected colon segment may be required. Another complication that may occur in a small percentage of people is bleeding from a single diverticulum. These individuals present with profuse, painless rectal bleeding. Most of the time the bleeding stops spontaneously however a
colonoscopy may be needed to stop the bleeding and, if unsuccessful, surgical resection would be required. To diagnose diverticulosis your physician may order a barium enema, CT scan or colonoscopy. If your physician suspects worsening symptoms or complications due to diverticulosis, you may be prescribed a course of antibiotics. What is needed to treat diverticulosis? The cornerstone of therapy when diverticulosis is diagnosed is a high fiber diet. Most Americans consume only 10-14 grams of fiber per day, however the FDA recommends at least 25-35 grams of dietary fiber per day. Adding a daily fiber supplement such as psyllium husk, Fibercon or Citrucel can certainly help. Fiber softens and bulks the stool making it easier to pass, thus decreasing the pressure within the colon and preventing further diverticulum from forming. A diet high in fiber reduces the risk of diverticular complications. In the past, doctors have often recommended avoiding certain foods that contain seeds and nuts that could theoretically get stuck in these colon pockets. No scientific study has ever shown that these foods worsen diverticulosis or cause diverticular disease. Elimination of foods containing seeds and nuts is not needed,.so enjoy! Author William Lunt is a physician with Associates in Gastroenterology and can be reached 719-635-7321. For more information visit www.agcosprings.com Colorado Springs SENIOR • Spring 2010
45
“Some patients describe it as if they are walking on river rocks, Lincoln logs or sand.�
Numb Painful Feet?
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By: Katharine Leppeard, MD, PT t you have numb or painful feet, it may be a sign you have a peripheral neuropathy, a condition that affects 20 million Americans. Yet most people have never heard of it. Peripheral nerves are the nerves outside the brain and spinal cord that travel into the arms and legs. Neuropathy means illness of the nerve. There are many types and causes of peripheral neuropathies. Symptoms include pain, numbness, burning, stinging, uncomfortable tingling, shooting sensations, weakness, or balance difficulties. Typically symptoms affect the longest nerves first, the nerves in our feet, followed by the nerves in our hands. Nerve pain can be especially severe at night, and often does not respond to standard pain medications. It is hard to understand how a numb foot can also feel severe pain. One way to look at a peripheral neuropathy is that it is a short circuit of the nerves. The injured nerves cannot feel the normal sensations, yet those same injured nerves may register a normally non-painful stimulus, something as simple as a sheet touching a foot, as painful. Any number of sensations can occur such as stinging pains, burning, or feeling that bugs 46
Colorado Springs SENIOR • Spring 2010
are crawling on the skin. Some patients describe it as if they are walking on river rocks, Lincoln logs or sand. Others notice balance problems mentioning that when they close their eyes to wash their hair in the shower they loose their balance. There are many causes and types of peripheral neuropathies. The most common in the US is diabetes; the most common worldwide is leprosy. Other underlying causes include thyroid disease, vitamin B12 deficiency, heredity, alcohol abuse, renal disease, toxins such as heavy metals, or damage from medications including some forms of chemotherapy. Over 30% of peripheral neuropathies have no identifiable cause and are called idiopathic neuropathies. Idiopathic neuropathies can be very frustrating and hard to understand when diagnosed in an otherwise healthy person. There are genetic tests for various forms of neuropathy especially those occurring early in life. Most peripheral neuropathies occur later in life, and there are no genetic tests for these types. Diagnosis is made with physical examination and by an EMG (electromyography) test. An EMG consists of two separate tests. The first part, the
nerve conduction studies, consist of an electrical stimulus applied to the nerve enabling the doctor to measure how well the nerve conducts the signal, the speed of onset of the nerve response, the amplitude, and the conduction velocity along the nerve. Each nerve has a specific pattern that is normal, and different disease states present in different manners. For the second portion of the test a thin wire with an attached microphone is inserted into strategic muscles fed by different nerves. This examines the electrical activity in the muscle and gives information about the health of the muscle, and also the nerve innervating that muscle. It can help differentiate between a peripheral neuropathy and leg symptoms due to spinal nerve compression. If the EMG study is normal, a person may have a small fiber neuropathy. This is typically a painful neuropathy that affects the very smallest fibers in the skin. The larger nerve fibers are functioning well, thus the EMG which can only test the large fibers is normal. Small fiber neuropathy is confirmed with a skin biopsy. When peripheral neuropathy is first diagnosed bloodwork to look for underlying treatable conditions such as undiagnosed diabetes, hypothyroidism, and
Physicians
vitamin deficiencies should be completed. Vitamin B12 deficiencies are commonly found, and easily treated. Other types of peripheral neuropathies have specific treatments options as well. Once nerve damage has occurred, the medical treatment options are limited. If no treatable underlying condition is found, it is a symptom management situation. There are medications to help with neuropathic pain such as lyrica, cymbalta and neurontin, but these medications do not improve nerve function or reverse nerve damage. Healthy diet, minimizing alcohol, and vitamin B tablets are all good ideas. Six hundred milligrams per day of alpha lipoic acid, an anti-oxidant, has been suggested, however the con-
trolled studies have not shown good results. A study is currently underway testing alpha lipoic acid in peripheral neuropathies caused by chemotherapy. Although treatment options are limited, for most patients with pain, having an explanation for their pain is considered as important as a cure. Peripheral neuropathies do increase the risk of falls. One study found a fourfold higher incidence of falls in senior citizens with a peripheral neuropathy. People with neuropathies need to be especially cautious; nightlights and removing loose throw rugs is recommended. Exercise classes can improve balance and stamina, while a cane or walker can improve balance and safety. Patients with a peripheral
neuropathy should not trust their feet to test the temperature of bath water as burns can occur. Foot care is important, as a small sore on a numb foot can go unnoticed, and turn into a larger infected wound. This is especially important in diabetes as wound healing can be poor. It is estimated that 20% of people over the age of 60 have peripheral nerve dysfunction. If you are having these symptoms please seek medical evaluation. Good online resources include www.neuropathy.org and www.diabetes. org where you then search neuropathy. To schedule an appointment or for more information call Medical Rehabilitation Specialists at 719-575-1800.
<TSXRP[ ATWPQX[XcPcX^] B_TRXP[Xbcb :PcWPaX]T ;T__PaS <3 ?C 13 Years Private Practice in Colorado Springs Board Certified: U Electrodiagnostic Medicine U Neuromuscular Medicine U Physical Medicine & Rehab
Medical
Rehabilitation Specialists
Call for an appointment 719-575-1800 3470 Centennial Blvd, Suite 110, Colorado Springs, CO 80907 Accepting most insurances www.medical-rehab.com Colorado Springs SENIOR â&#x20AC;˘ Spring 2010
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Bad News and Good News By: Gigi Dawood, DO, CSHP iabetes—these days it has become almost a household disease. It discriminates against no one; young and old, family or friends, most people know at least one person with the disease. But have you heard about pre-diabetes? This is a less known condition, but just as important to discuss because of all the potential complications it presents, including progressing to diabetes itself. Pre-diabetes is what the name suggests, a state where one’s blood glucose levels are higher than they normally should be. Some may call it “borderline” diabetes. Physicians commonly refer to this state as Impaired Glucose Tolerance or Impaired Fasting Glucose. The American Diabetes Association estimates that there are now 54 million people with pre-diabetes. Often pre-diabetes has no signs or symptoms. In fact,
D
millions of people have diabetes and don’t know they do because they have no symptoms, or they happen gradually. Diagnosing pre-diabetes is important because having abnormal blood sugars can increase your risk of developing type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. If you have the diagnosis of pre-diabetes, your risk for heart disease or stroke increases by 50%. Every year about 10% with pre-diabetes develop the actual diagnosis of diabetes. Because pre-diabetes has no obvious signs or symptoms, blood tests are required to look for the abnormal sugars. As of January 2010, the American Diabetes Association has started to recommend the A1c blood test as another means of diagnosing diabetes and pre-diabetes. An A1c of 5.7 to 6.4% would indicate pre-diabetes and an A1c of 6.5% or higher would indicate diabetes. The advantage of this blood test is that it can be done at any
Pre-Diabetes
time of day, without fasting. It reflects a person’s average blood glucose levels over the previous three months. There is good news, too! Progression to type 2 diabetes and all of its related complications, such as heart, kidney, and eye damage, can be prevented. By increasing physical activity, eating less, and maintaining a healthy weight you can bring your blood glucose levels to normal. Regular exercise is beneficial for weight control and the utilization of excessive glucose in the bloodstream. Exercise also makes your cells more sensitive to insulin which is a natural hormone that is made in your body that brings glucose into your cells. For more information about visiting with a physician, please call 719-6348949 or visit www.cshp.net
COLORADO SPRINGS HEALTH PARTNERS, PC
The physicians at Colorado Springs Health Partners provide quality, compassionate, and expertise you can depend on. With 11 locations around the Pikes Peak region, you can rely on CSHP for coordinated care among your primary care physician, specialists, lab, x-ray and hospital care. For more information, including services, locations and a full physician directory, visit our website: www.cshp.net
Physicians you trust, care you can count on.
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Colorado Springs SENIOR • Spring 2010
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Physicians
Taking Care of Aging Knees
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By: Dennis A Phelps, MD, Colorado Springs Orthopaedic Group ore and more people knee resurfacing (PKR) and knee arthrosare staying active copy. PKR restores only the part of the knee as they age. This is that is damaged by arthritis. In addition, a healthy, but playing PKR implant is smaller than a total knee team sports, jogging implant and does not disturb the knee’s or doing other high-impact activities healthy tissues. With respect to arthroscopthat repeatedly pound, twist and turn ic surgery, a small camera inserted into the the knees can stress aging joints. Highly knee joint via an arthroscopic tube allows active, middle-aged patients may de- an orthopaedic surgeon to thoroughly evalvelop painful knees as a result of osteo- uate and “clean out” the knee joint. arthritis (OA)—a painful condition ocFor middle-aged people, the earlier an curring when the cartilage lining on the orthopedist diagnoses knee osteoarthritis, ends of bones gradually wears away. the more likely conservative treatment Most knee osteoarthritis sufferers are may help. If in its early stages, your docover age 55 and/or obese and/or have a tor may recommend low-impact activifamily history of OA. Younger, highly ac- ties and other non-operative treatments tive people may also develop OA if their that can delay or eliminate the need for knee(s) suffered a significant injury. Symp- surgery. In some cases, activity modificatoms include knee pain when standing or tion may be the only treatment a patient going up and down stairs. Additionally, needs. Even when surgery is needed, paaffected knees may buckle and give way, tients still have to modify their activities lock in place, or become stiff and swollen. to preserve the replaced joint. Increasingly, patients with knee osModerate physical activity lessens teoarthritis are asking for total knee re- joint pain and improves flexibility and placement surgery as a result of friends’ function. Knee OA sufferers should conrecommendations, advertising or news tinue exercising, but change the forms reports about its success. While total of their activities. They should stop doknee replacement may be appropriate ing high-impact activities that twist and in some cases, many highly active pa- turn the joints and start doing smooth, tients in their 40s and 50s often refuse low-impact activities that are easier on to change their lifestyles to extend the the joints. High-impact activities include life of their natural knees. running, tennis, racquetball, basketball, Patients often hope for a complete and softball. Low-impact activities inend to their symptoms without making clude stretching, swimming, water aeroany changes in their activities. In real- bics, cycling, walking, and playing golf. ity, orthopedic surgeons use a complex Other options that may extend the medical process to determine whether life of natural knees include medicatotal knee replacement is appropriate tions, steroid injections, physical therafor a patient—considering age, activity py and mechanical aids. demands and other factors. In addition, Typical medications prescribed are long-term results of joint replacement non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are less certain in younger patients. (NSAIDs) which help reduce inflammaAlternative knee surgeries aimed to re- tion. Certain dietary supplements may lieve pain and restore function include two also help. Glucosamine stimulates formaminimally-invasive procedures called partial tion and repair of articular cartilage, and
See Advertisement Back Cover
Dr. Dennis A Phelps
chondroitin sulfate prevents cartilage from degrading. Please note that these compounds may cause negative interactions with other medications or excessive bleeding during surgery. Always consult a doctor before taking dietary supplements. In terms of injections, an orthopedist may inject the knee joint with strong anti-inflammatory medications called corticosteroids. This can relieve pain and swelling for several months. Another type of knee injection is part of a joint fluid replacement therapy called visco supplementation. It utilizes a substance called hyaluronic acid and is usually a series of three injections. In conjunction with other treatments, an orthopedist may recommend a fitness program including physical/occupational therapy to improve joint flexibility, increase range of motion, strengthen muscle, bone and cartilage tissues and reduce pain. Icing the affected joint for short periods, several times a day may also help. If supportive or assistive devices are needed, a mechanical aid such as an elastic bandage, splint, brace, cane, crutches or walker may be ordered. In summary, degenerative knee osteoarthritis represents a spectrum of disease and severity. If you believe that you are experiencing symptoms, see an orthopedic surgeon for diagnosis and treatment. He/she will consider your comprehensive medical history; perform a physical examination and possibly order tests and/or imaging studies before recommending a course of treatment. As noted, there are a variety of treatment options short of surgery that can help extend the life of your natural knees. Author Dennis A Phelps, MD, is a Total Joint Specialist with the Colorado Springs Orthopaedic Group. You can reach Colorado Springs Orthopaedic Group by calling 719-632-7669 or 719-574-8383. Colorado Springs SENIOR • Spring 2010
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No bones about it!
Osteoporosis should be taken seriously By: Dr Lasaundra Watson, Peak Vista steoporosis is a disease in which bones become weak and can break from a minor fall or in serious cases, from as simple an action as a sneeze. If not prevented or if left untreated, osteoporosis can progress painlessly until a bone breaks. These broken bones, also known as fractures, typically occur in the hip, spine, and wrist. Fifty-five percent of Americans, 50 years of age and older, are at risk of developing osteoporosis. Currently 10 million individuals are estimated to already have the disease, and 34 million more are estimated to have low bone mass, placing them at increased risk for osteoporosis. Women can lose up to 20% of their bone mass in the five to seven years after menopause, making them more susceptible to osteoporosis. While women are four times more likely than men to develop the disease, men also suffer from osteoporosis. People cannot feel their bones getting weaker and may not know that they have osteoporosis until they break a bone. About 85-90% of adult bone mass is acquired by age 18 in girls, and age 20 in boys. Building strong bones during childhood and adolescence can help to prevent osteoporosis later in life.
O
The following five steps can result in better bone health and help prevent osteoporosis: • Get the daily recommended amounts of calcium and vitamin D. • Engage in regular weight-bearing and muscle-strengthening exercise. • Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol. • Have a bone density test and take medication when appropriate. • Talk to your doctor about bone health. Although there is not a cure for osteoporosis, it can be treated. For more information about osteoporosis and management of this disease, contact Peak Vista Senior Health Centers at 329-7100 or visit www.peakvista.org to locate a health center near you. Author Dr Lasaundra Watson is with Peak Vista Senior Health Centers.
Physicians
Medicare and Eye Care
By: Sandra Robben-Weber, St. Luke’s Eye Care & Laser Center n the last issue we reviewed what cataract surgery eyeglasses, or at anytime Medicare does cover and in this is- when providing a written prescription sue we will address what Medicare for visual acuity. St Luke’s Eye Care & does not cover related to eye care. Laser Center offers the Medicare BenefiMedicare does not pay for routine ciary a discount off our normal-and-cusvision services or glasses/contact lenses tomary refraction fee, when this is paid other than the life-time benefit after at the time of service. cataract surgery (refer to page 46 of Medicare pays for 80% of the apFall/Winter issue of Colorado Springs proved-amount on the covered services/ SENIOR Magazine). Medicare does not items after the annual Part B deductible pay for the refraction portion of the eye has been met (2010 Part-B Deductible exam that measures how well you see $155.00). The remaining 20% is covered at a specific distance. As any secondary by any secondary insurance or directly insurance will only cover the remaining by the patient. St Luke’s accepts assign20% of what Medicare covers, with re- ment for Medicare beneficiaries and will fraction as a non-covered benefit, it and file Medicare, secondary insurance and must be paid for at the time of service Medicare Advantage plans. However, whenever it is deemed necessary. Refrac- remember there can be out-of-pocket tion could even be charged during post- costs and those monies are collected at operative care. For example, St Luke’s the time of service. charges for a refraction when making Spring is Glaucoma Awareness Seathe prescription determination of post- son. Please contact St Lukes’s Eye Care
I
Part II
& Laser Center for a Glaucoma Screening Appointment. Medicare pays for 80% of the approved-amount for glaucoma screening when medically necessary and we offer this as a free service for our patients, their family members and friends
Your Sight Is Important To Us! Author Sandra Robben-Weber is the Administrator at St Luke’s Eye Care & Laser Center where Dr McMahon, board certified in ophthalmology and fellowship trained in glaucoma, performs over 1,000 cataract surgeries annually. Also on staff is Dr Blake Simmons is an optometrist with additional residencetraining in ocular diseases. They can be reached at 719-471-4000. Other resources: www.Medicare.gov
Cataract & Glaucoma Specialists including full-service optical
Charles D. McMahon, MD
Blake G. Simmons, OD
Call 719-471-4000 for FREE Glaucoma or Vision Screening www.eyesoncolorado.com
email: appointments@eyesoncolorado.com
1715 N. Weber Street, Suite 360 Colorado Springs SENIOR • Spring 2010
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Providing 50 Years of
exceptional Care Neurosurgery & Neurology Alzheimer’s
EEG Testing & Interpretation
Parkinson’s Disease
Back Pain Botox
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Neurologists
Michael W. Brown, MD D. James Sceats, Jr, MD Joseph J. Illig, MD Sana U. Bhatti, MD
William R. Seybold, MD Randall J. Bjork, MD Laurence J. Adams, Jr, MD William G. Herrera, MD Eric J. Foltz, MD
www.csneuro.com Printer’s Park Medical Plaza Colorado Springs SENIOR • Spring 2010 52
Call 473-3272
175 S. Union Boulevard, #310, Colorado Springs, CO 80910
Physicians
Side Effects
By: Randall J Bjork, MD Colorado Springs Neurological Associates, PC octors have always tried could be causing your troubles and to cure vexing condi- perhaps other medications with more tions or ease distress- favorable side effect profiles could be ing symptoms by using selected for your problem. There are various medications usually numerous other options to that are given to patients by prescription consider. Of course, any of these side or recommended on an over-the-counter effect symptoms could be caused by basis. Oftentimes, things go very smooth- various diseases, so try not to jump to ly with this plan, but sometimes not. conclusions or, even worse, don’t try to Even very well-accepted and well- be your own doctor. intentioned drugs have side effects, So then, let’s move on to the side which can be annoying, concerning and effects of our environment, which is even distressing. In fact, side effects can technically an alpine desert, located complicate the most compassionate at- here in the leeward aspect of the Rocky tempts at human medical treatments. A Mountains of the great west of the US side effect should not be confused with at 6,200 to 9,000 feet above the seas. the first-time occurrence of a drug “al- Unfortunately, this environment of lergy” or “hypersensitivity” response, as ours is totally indifferent to us and our these phenomena are absolutely unpre- comfort (as is every other environment dictable and could be, regrettably, fatal. in the universe). Can it be that the drySide effects are quite different and, ness of this place we love so much steals to some extent, somewhat predictable. our precious bodily fluids like some Any drug that makes your mouth dry is thief in the night? Well, yes, that is cergiving you a side effect. Lookout, there tainly the case, sad to say. may be other side effects, too, with these There is a very good reason why we “drying” drugs, even though the prescrib- humans and the earth, itself, are 70% ing doctor’s intent is entirely benevolent. water, a sacred percentage to support Some side effects involve blood pressure life. Breathe now, if you will, against or cardiac effects. These side effects can a glass surface. What is it that appears be serious. Other side effects are annoy- there in front of you? Yes, it is your waing, but also can be very troublesome. ter vapor, lost forever into the environA mnemonic for annoying side effects ment with every breath you take and is: ABCCDSS—anorexia, blurry vision, every move you make. While you sleep, constipation, confusion, dry mouth, that may amount to several thousands sedation, and stasis of urine. There are of breaths every night, depending, of many others, of course, as popular blood course, on your average respiratory rate pressure medications, called the ACE-in- and the number of hours you sleep— hibitors, may cause a nagging, dry cough. fewer if you have sleep apnea. Too much vitamin B6 may cause your How many of you drink water extremities to tingle. during the night when you roll over If you think that side effects of medi- or get up for one reason or another? cations are troubling you, talk to your Perhaps you may drink a liter or so doctor about the medications which during the night because your mouth
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is dry. Good for you if you do. If you don’t, you may awaken with a very dry, crusty mouth and amber urine which has an aroma called stronguria in medical terminology. This condition is called “nocturnal dehydration” and is associated with headaches, dizziness, mental sluggishness, a proneness to medication side effects and blood clotting issues, by the elementary chemical principle we’ll call “the concentration of solutes”. To avoid that potentially dangerous condition, program yourself for “differential sleep”, such that you compel yourself to drink water at night to avoid nocturnal dehydration, so you don’t awaken with a stroke or worse. If you don’t drink enough water during the day, these problems are compounded, especially if you exercise without adequately hydrating yourself. People sometimes misinterpret “thirst” for “hunger” and may eat something when they should drink a glass of water or juice. Remember, caffeine-containing or alcoholic beverages don’t count as hydration, as they have diuretic effects, causing a net loss of your body water, unfortunately. Before you start on any rehydration project, discuss your plan with your trusted doctor, who may have critical advice for you depending on your medications, cardiac or renal function. Although your doctor’s intent is benevolent, neither a drug effect nor the environment is totally predictable. Author Randall J Bjork, MD, is a physician with Colorado Springs Neurosurgery & Neurology. You can reach CSNA by calling 719-473-3272. Colorado Springs SENIOR • Spring 2010
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Physicians
The Breast Center of Excellence
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Article courtesy of: Rocky Mountain Cancer Centers e all know some- getting treated for breast cancer, while one with breast also ensuring you have the best treatment cancer. It could options available in the community. be a coworker, our Our patient care coordinator for the dearest friend, or Breast Center of Excellence is Cindy even our daughter. There’s a reason we all Dalton. Cindy is an oncology certified know someone with the disease: Breast nurse who understands that facing a cancer is the most common cancer in diagnosis of cancer is one of the most women. In fact, the American Cancer challenging times of your life. She demSociety estimated that approximately onstrates the healing power of love, a 2,840 women in Colorado would be di- core RMCC value, by guiding you with agnosed with invasive breast cancer last care and compassion through the oftenyear, and about 520 women in our state confusing process from the start. would die from the disease. You’ll meet with both a radiation onDespite these statistics, there is good cologist and a medical oncologist, and be news. Thanks to early detection and state- provided with an array of other support of-the-art treatment options, the mortal- services prior to and throughout your ity rate is decreasing each year. At Rocky treatment, including education materials, Mountain Cancer Centers (RMCC), access to an oncology social worker, and we’re doing our part to raise awareness of financial counseling. In addition, the Centhe disease and to bring to our commu- ter provides comprehensive consultations nity the best treatment options available. through a multi-disciplinary approach, The Breast Center of Excellence at our second opinions, diagnostic imaging, geColorado Springs cancer center, launched netic counseling and psychosocial support in 2008, has changed the way we ap- services. And when it comes to treatment, proach and treat breast cancer. It is de- we’ll give you the latest options, including signed to provide coordinated and com- cutting-edge radiation therapy and the latprehensive care for women with breast est clinical trials. With our US Oncology cancer in order to help them obtain in- affiliation, the Breast Center of Excellence formation, education, treatment options, has access to the most innovative breast psychosocial support and cutting-edge cancer trials in the country. treatment choices. Its Medical Director is In addition to the services provided, the Timothy Murphy, MD, FACP. physical setting of the Breast Center of ExOur goal is to provide you with timely, cellence is different than what you might in-depth and compassionate treatment expect from a typical cancer care provider. recommendations. The Breast Center of For your initial consultation, Cindy will Excellence is staffed by a dedicated pa- meet with you in a suite that is comforttient care coordinator and experienced able, warm and elegantly furnished. medical and radiation oncologists who We believe that when all of these have a special interest and expertise in facets of care, treatment and setting are breast cancer. In other words, the Breast combined, the Breast Center of ExcelCenter of Excellence offers a new level of lence makes for a unique cancer care cancer care in our community. We want experience. Plus it’s a part of the Rocky to take the hassle and confusion out of Mountain Cancer Centers network,
where we pride ourselves on offering the latest treatments combined with the healing power of love. So when you or someone you care about is diagnosed with breast cancer, let us guide you every step of the way. We invite you to take advantage of the services we offer at the Rocky Mountain Cancer Centers Breast Center of Excellence. For more information, please visit www. RockyMountainCancerCenters.com or call 719-577-2555.
Breast Cancer Risk Factors: Gender: Breast cancer is more common in women than in men Age: 80% of breast cancers are found in women over age 50 Ethnicity: White women are slightly more likely to get breast cancer than AfricanAmerican women, but African-American women are more likely to die of the disease Genetic factors: About 5-10% of breast cancers are linked to changes (mutations) in certain genes, most commonly BRCA1 and BRCA2. That also means 90-95% are not, so even women not at genetic risk should watch for symptoms and have yearly mammograms Family history of breast cancer A person with cancer in one breast has a greater chance of getting a new cancer in the other breast or in another part of the same breast Earlier abnormal breast biopsy Earlier breast radiation Women who began having menstrual periods early (before 12 years of age) or who went through menopause after the age of 55 Women who were given the drug DES (diethylstilbestrol) Colorado Springs SENIOR • Spring 2010
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Colorado Springs SENIOR â&#x20AC;˘ Spring 2010
Retirement LIVING
Colorado Springs SENIOR â&#x20AC;˘ Spring 2010
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Dining Services
It’s More Than Just the Food
By: Skip Hale, Executive Director of Cheyenne Place ast year I gave you tips to help you our residents and offering a variety of selecfind the senior living community tions that compliment a full salad bar, our that’s right for you. Included was the food service team provides our residents recommendation to always try the food. with plenty of healthy and tasty choices. Ask about options in the dining room. The food service team at Cheyenne Place Make certain you or your loved one’s di- makes a concerted effort to engage diners etary needs will be met and absolutely stay visually and really “feed their eyes” as well as for a complimentary lunch or dinner. their stomachs. That translates into careful We all know that no matter what our presentation of every dish. Consistent adage, healthy eating is very important. As herence to restaurant-style dining, complete we grow older, medical problems can in- with waiters and waitresses, means that our terfere with a healthy diet, our appetite staff also nourishes residents’ spirits with can decrease, or a problem with nutrient personal attention and makes mealtime absorption may develop. Cooking can something to look forward to. Meal time become a burden, and, in turn, some for senior living residents means so much older adults stop eating healthfully. more than a delicious and nutritious meal. To counter the problems that are some- It’s not just the food, but rather the “food times associated with aging and appetite, for the soul” that can make a big difference all meals prepared by Chef Jeff Morlan at in a person’s outlook. Cheyenne Place Retirement Community The social outlet and sense of camaraexceed the recommended daily nutritional derie that is offered by senior living dining content suggested by federal guidelines. is often the “main course” While the social Plus, by tailoring menus to the tastes of aspect of dining is obviously very impor-
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tant to the health of seniors, so is tasty and healthy food. Our chef features “made from scratch,” home-style cooking. So when it comes to serving the best in meals, the proof is in the pudding at Cheyenne Place Retirement Community. Come learn more about Cheyenne Place and take a tour today! Ask for me, Skip Hale, Executive Director. I can be reached at 719-576-2122
Services & Features: All Utilites Paid Complimentary Laundry Services Transportation Wellness Programs House-call Doctor Home-cooked Meals Medical Alert System Beauty Shop Fitness Center & Game Room Carports
Independent Living at the base of Cheyenne Mountain 58
Colorado Springs SENIOR • Spring 2010
945 Tenderfoot Hill Road Colorado Springs, CO 80906
(719) 576-2122
Retirement LIVING
Senior Living Communities How do we choose? “In Colorado Springs alone, there are over 15 independent living communities, 60-plus assisted living communities and over 20 skilled nursing facilities. With so many choices, it’s very easy to get overwhelmed with the selection process and for mistakes to be made.”
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By: Shelly Terry, Owner of Senior Housing Solutions hoosing from indepen- priate questions are asked and that dent living communi- the right decision is made on a perties to assisted living sonalized basis. communities, or from One of our senior housing professmall adult care homes sionals will take the time to sit down to skilled nursing facilities—explor- with you to determine exactly what ing the many options in senior liv- you’re looking for in a senior coming can be an exhausting task. Senior munity. We’ll then schedule personHousing Solutions provides experi- alized tours with the communities enced local guidance and support. that best fit your wants and needs, Better still, its services are free to se- and will accompany you to ensure all niors and their loved ones. of your questions are answered. Once Senior Housing Solutions offers you’ve made a decision, we will assist Colorado Springs seniors exactly what in the transition to make sure everyits name suggests—solutions. Once you thing goes smoothly. And we’ll keep have decided that it’s time to move to an in touch to make sure you’re satisfied independent or assisted living commu- with your new home after the move. nity, Senior Housing Solutions has the With over 20 years experience in the knowledge and experience in the local Colorado Springs senior community, we senior housing community to assist you have done the leg work for you and will in making the right choice. help you in your selection process. In Colorado Springs alone, there are over 15 independent living comAuthor Shelly Terry is the owner of munities, 60-plus assisted living com- Senior Housing Solutions, a local orgamunities and over 20 skilled nursing nization that serves as a free commufacilities. With so many choices and nity resource assisting Colorado Springs the horror stories we’ve all heard, it’s seniors and their loved ones in finding very easy to get overwhelmed with the the quality Independent, Assisted Livselection process and for mistakes to ing, or Skilled Nursing options that be made. Senior Housing Solutions best fit individual needs. For more inlends our experience, free of charge, formation about senior housing options gained from working with these com- or any other senior services, call 719munities to ensure all of the appro- 457-1288
- See Advertisement Inside Front Cover -
So the question is: What are you looking for in a senior community? Here’s a partial list to consider: • Location • Social Activities • Are pets allowed • Private room or shared • Housekeeping services • Transportation services • Do they allow smoking • Which communities fit the budget • Atmosphere
Colorado Springs SENIOR • Spring 2010
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Improving Communication with Care Providers
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Article courtesy of Susan Rogers, MSG t least once a week some- people they serve. Most have the best one will come to my intentions in mind as they provide office anxious to move care and services. Most are committed their loved one to our to providing your loved one the best community because they care, however, mistakes do happen. It are dissatisfied with the care pro- is important for you to be observant vided at another facility. I listen to and attentive. If something doesn’t their list of complaints and then ask make sense or doesn’t “feel right”, ask them how the other facility respond- for clarification. You may also need to ed when they shared their concerns verify that everything your loved one with them. Most people quickly re- tells you is accurate, too. Sometimes spond that they didn’t feel comfort- medications, poor hearing, fatigue or able expressing their concerns to the other factors can cause someone to staff, so they decided to move their misunderstand or misremember. parent to another facility instead. Whether your loved one is receiving There’s No Time Like The Present home health services, visiting a doctor, The care provider will be best able to reconfined to a hospital or recovering in a solve any questions or concerns if you skilled nursing facility you can improve express them in a timely and factual communication with the care providers manner. Make note of the date, time to ensure that your family member gets and persons involved. the best care. You Attract More Flies With Honey Start Off On The Right Foot When voicing a complaint it is alWhether moving your mother to an ways wise to use what my son calls assisted living community, setting up a “compliment sandwich”. Start and home health care or admitting her into end with a compliment and your a skilled nursing facility for rehabilita- complaint will be better received. You tion, the process can feel overwhelm- may say something like “How can we ing. It’s a good idea to have someone work together to find a solution?” or else with you when you meet with the “Help me to understand…” There staff, especially during your initial vis- will be an adjustment period as your it. Feel free to take notes and to ask for loved one and the care providers get clarification if you don’t understand to know each other, and open comsomething. Be up-front about your munication make this transition go expectations, hopes and fears, and more smoothly. you may be surprised about what you learn. Lastly, you will want to verify Help Is Just A Click Away that the care provider knows the best Most communication with care proway to reach you. viders is done face to face or over the phone, but e-mail can be a valuable Trust, But Verify tool as well. With e-mail you can ask a Most care providers have chosen their question or share a concern 24 hours profession because they care about the a day. You also have a record of your 60
Colorado Springs SENIOR • Spring 2010
correspondence for future reference. No care provider is perfect, and people make mistakes. By using these tips, you should find that your communication with care providers has improved and you are able to resolve questions and concerns more quickly.
“Most people quickly respond that they didn’t feel comfortable expressing their concerns to the staff, so they decided to move their parent to another facility instead.”
Retirement LIVING
Options for Senior Living
By: Laura Nelson, Centura Health at Home ver the holidays, many of us visit munity’s scheduled transportation services parents or other older relatives. • Participate in planned activities if deThese visits can be enjoyable, but sired are often stressful if adult children realize • Find friendship with others of similar their parents are getting to the point where age/interests they need help managing their home or • Have as much privacy and indepenhealth. One option to consider is a move to dence as desired independent living in a senior community. Many senior communities, like Independent senior living is a good op- Medalion Retirement Community in tion for seniors who want social opportuni- Colorado Springs, have an emergency ties, security, and access to the services that call system in every apartment. Accorda senior community provides. Independent ing to Marge Shank, Associate Director living is designed for people who are able to of Independent and Assisted Living at live fairly independently, but want the re- Medalion, “If a resident has an emerassurance of knowing assistance is available gency, he or she can call for assistance, if needed. Independent living residents and a staff member will check on them. usually live in apartments (studio, single or It’s a nice benefit, and provides a sense of double bedroom, or larger). added well being for residents.”
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Residents in these residences can: • Cook in their own apartments, eat in the community’s dining room, or dine out •Drive their own cars, or utilize the com-
Services that are typically offered to independent living residents in a senior community include: • Biweekly or weekly light housekeeping
The perfect amount of
independence
We understand seniors and their families are looking for the right amount of care and the right amount of independence. We’ll help you through the process to find the place that feels most like home. Call us for convenient tour hours or visit us online at centuraseniors.org
or
Independent Living in a Senior Community • On-site dining, with the ability to purchase individual meals or meal packages • Planned activities, classes, and community outings • Scheduled transportation to banks, stores and physician offices • Guest accommodations for family and friends • Computer lab with internet access • Off-street parking • Grounds-keeping and snow removal • Apartment maintenance services • Paid utilities (may not include phone) • Some senior communities also offer other care levels, such as assisted living, nursing home care, and memory care. Author Laura Nelson is the Marketing Director at Centura Health at Home. More information about independent senior living and Medalion Retirement Community is at www.centuraseniors.org or call 719-381-1000.
care.
2 Penrose Boulevard Colorado Springs 719-776-6300
1719 East Bijou Street Colorado Springs 719-381-1000
Services: s Residential Alzheimer’s care
Services: s Independent retirement living in oneand two-bedroom apartments
s Adult day program, specializing in Alzheimer’s clients
s Independent Plus services – assistance with home management and personal care s Assisted living in apartments or rooms s Skilled nursing care
Centura Health complies with the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and no person shall be excluded from participation in, be denied benefits of, or otherwise be subjected to discrimination in the provision of any care or service on the grounds of race, religion, color, sex, national origin, sexual preference, ancestry, age, familial status, disability or handicap. Copyright © 2010 Centura Health.
Colorado Springs SENIOR • Spring 2010
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TODAY. TOMORROW.
Always.
BROOKDALE PLACE COLORADO SPRINGS Personalized Assisted Living Alzheimer’s & Dementia Care 10 W. Monument Street Colorado Springs, CO 80903
(719) 635-6300 STERLING HOUSE® BRIARGATE Personalized Assisted Living 7560 Lexington Drive Colorado Springs, Colorado 80920
(719) 598-4200 VILLAGE AT SKYLINE Independent Living Personalized Assisted Living Alzehimer’s & Dementia Care Rehabilitation & Skilled Nursing 2365 Patriot Heights Colorado Springs, Colorado 80904
(719) 867-4600 WYNWOOD® COLORADO SPRINGS Personalized Assisted Living 2780 Vickers Drive Colorado Springs, Colorado 80918
(719) 598-0400 Life is a gift at every age when you find a place that enhances your lifestyle today and meets your needs tomorrow. Brookdale Senior Living communities offer a variety of lifestyles — and as a Brookdale resident you will always have priority access to multiple lifestyle and
WYNWOOD® PUEBLO Personalized Assisted Living 4723 Surfwood Lane Pueblo, Colorado 81005
(719) 561-1400
care options, even when your needs change. Whatever your lifestyle or needs, there’s a Brookdale Senior Living® community for you. Call or visit one today. www.brookdaleliving.com Our People Make the Difference is a Service Mark of Brookdale Senior Living, Inc., Nashville, TN, USA. ® Reg. U.S. Patent and TM Office. COSM3-RES01-1209
Our People Make the DifferenceSM
Retirement LIVING
Living an Optimum Life®
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Article courtesy of Brookdale Senior Living etirement living defi- making a difference in your communitely isn’t what it used nity through volunteer work or similar to be. In fact, at Brook- endeavors. “Spiritual” is a very personal dale Senior Living®, it dimension that helps you find meaning is much more, thanks in your life. It nurtures your spirit and to our Optimum Life® culture. beliefs, usually through faith and values. Optimum Life® is Brookdale’s® inno- “Emotional” enables you to respond vative concept that is all about how you effectively to what you are feeling and want to live your life. This is important teaches the importance of developing since how we live our lives can truly affect and maintaining a positive attitude. the outcome. By putting more into your “Social” encourages you to interact with life, you greatly increase your chances of others and promotes personal connections getting what you want out of it. But even that can enhance your positive outlook on if you don’t reach all your goals, life’s jour- life. Membership in groups or clubs is conney can still be fulfilling in every way. ducive to positive social interaction. “IntelAs a Brookdale Senior Living® resident, lectual” encourages full use of your mental you have direct access to the Optimum capacity and enables you to think, analyze, Life resources that will help you live at reason and comprehend. It promotes lifeyour peak level in six key dimensions long learning. “Physical” provides imof wellness: purposeful, spiritual, emo- proved health and wellness through particitional, social, intellectual, and physical. pation in activities designed to help increase Through these dimensions, the concept cardiovascular endurance, muscle tone and of Optimum Life brings together a flexibility. It enables you to nurture your number of activities and opportunities body by taking charge of your health. designed to balance your overall sense No two individuals are alike and the of well-being, regardless of your current path to achieving your Optimum Life will level of health, mobility or wellness. be an individual journey unlike any other. Here’s a closer look at these six key di- It will recognize your unique past and mensions. “Purposeful” provides a sense present abilities and circumstances to help of value and focus that often entails you reach your highest level of well-being.
The choice is yours to take advantage of any of the numerous opportunities in each area of Optimum Life so you can enjoy health, wholeness and life fulfillment. As you progress, you will find that your pursuit of an Optimum Life will be more than a destination; it will be a journey that continually changes with your life’s needs, desires, capabilities and goals. And by pursuing the Optimum Life concept with vigor and purpose, you will be helping yourself live a life that is balanced and purposefully fulfilling. Brookdale is a leading owner and operator of senior living facilities throughout the US. Currently the company owns and operates independent and personalized assisted living communities as well as Alzheimer’s and dementia care facilities, continuing care retirement centers and rehabilitation and skilled nursing centers, with approximately 53,600 residents. Stop by one of our beautiful communities today and see why so many people call Brookdale Senior Living home. For more information, log onto www.brookdaleliving.com Our People Make the Difference is a Service Mark of Brookdale Senior Living Inc, Nashville, Tennessee. Colorado Springs SENIOR • Spring 2010
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Retirement LIVING
When is it time to move?
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By: Erica Gioga, The Palisades At Broadmoor Park any seniors worry have housekeeping services for those when trying to de- indoor tasks. Joining others for physicide when is the cal programs for strength, balance, right time for them and mobility encourages involvement. to move into a re- Transportation to outside events protirement community. Moving is diffi- motes participation in community cult at any age and the thought of hav- and cultural activities. Look for a faing to pack up memories, sort through cility that has an on-site health clinic closets and leave home can be nearly for convenience. paralyzing. Many seniors feel pressure to move quickly. However, waiting too “I don’t want to be a bother.” long can result in a life changing fall Practically every family member who making the decision for you. There are hears this wants to reply, “It is a bigmany advantages to making a move ger bother for you to stay in your own sooner rather than later. home.” With concern for your safety, a move would undoubtedly put your “Will I fit in?” family’s mind at ease. They know Transitioning from your home to a their loved one will be checked on, retirement community can be tough offered social opportunities and be emotionally. Difficulty driving at eating meals regularly. Family memnight, limited mobility and chronic bers are free to spend more quality health issues may have conspired to time with their loved one rather than reduce the number of social outlets in just doing the chores. your life and can cause loneliness and depression. Living in a retirement “It will be hard to downsize.” community opens the door for many Yes, it will be hard to downsize. Most social interactions with an interesting of us spend our entire lifetime acvariety of activities to choose from. cumulating stuff and deciding what Socializing with people the same to keep is difficult. This is often the age and with similar life experiences hardest part of the moving process but makes it easy to meet new people and once it’s done, it’s done. It is a great form new friendships. time to gift sentimental items to family. Many support organizations wel“I want to maintain my independence.” come donated items which may be tax Moving into a retirement community deductible. Having made the move, can actually provide more indepen- you will be free to focus on living your dence. When preparing a meal for best possible life. only one, many seniors lose interest in cooking a balanced meal and put their If the thought of moving into a retirehealth at risk. Dining with others en- ment community has crossed your mind, courages good nutrition and means no trust that instinct! Now is a right time to more meals alone. At your own home, explore your options! Contact us at 719negotiating stairs, dealing with ice and 226-2273 or at www.PalisadesCARE. snow, changing the bed or trying to com. Feel free to stop by at 4547 Palisades make household repairs can result in a Park View to see how The Palisades at life-changing injury. Retirement com- Broadmoor Park can support you in decidmunities maintain the grounds and ing that now is the right time for you.
“Socializing with people the same age and with similar life experiences makes it easy to meet new people and form new friendships.”
Colorado Springs SENIOR • Spring 2010
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Should We Go or Just Send Flowers?
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Article courtesy of Rick Allen any of us have faced the dilemma of whether or not to attend funeral services for someone we knew or send a floral arrangement instead. Sometimes we see the necessity in doing both. But when the decision is to do one or the other, what factors do we use in arriving at our conclusion? Obviously, a conflict in schedule has to be considered first, but when the calendar is clear do we tend to look for reasons to go or reasons not to go? When the person who has died is a member of the family, little thought is necessary; attendance is all but mandatory. Extended family is even considered a “must” by most people. The struggle for the vast majority comes with making this decision when the deceased is an acquaintance from long ago, the family of a friend, or someone we may have known professionally. Thus, the question that normally faces us is, “Why can’t we go?” Let’s look at the obvious first. Funerals are not fun. The mood is usually sad and people may even be gloomy. Additionally, we are expected to wear dark suits, ties, dress shoes, and all of these are usually not terribly comfortable. If the weather is hot or rainy, this will often have a negative effect on our decision as well. The truth is, we don’t have to look too far to find an abundance of reasons (excuses) to not attend a funeral. On the other hand, consider the 66
Colorado Springs SENIOR • Spring 2010
good things that might occur if you go. Although funerals pay tribute to and honor the one who has died, the funeral service is not for that person. The funeral service provides an opportunity for anyone who has been affected by the loss to share his or her feelings openly with others, accept the loss and to say goodbye. So, one reason we have in favor of attending the service is the positive effect it could have for us. As one who has lost immediate members of my family, I can assure you the people who choose to attend have a positive effect on those who are closest to the one who has died. Seeing and talking with your friends and co-workers at a funeral for your loved one imparts warmth and comfort to a hurting heart. Many times we learn things about the deceased that we did not know. Leaving a funeral feeling as if you know the deceased even better than before often gives a greater appreciation for that person’s life. We too can get a chance to share a story with the family about their loved one. They may not have known something they said or did that made a positive mark on our lives. So, while it’s often easy to find an adequate reason to skip a service, the good that can come our way or that we can pass on to others can far outweigh the short period of time we could hold back for ourselves. Look for ways to make something you think will be difficult an easier experience for everyone involved. You may be positively surprised.
“when the decision is to do one or the other, what factors do we use in arriving at our conclusion?”
Inside Every Retired Gal. Is A Teenaged Gal. We think of retired folks as “teenagers with more experience.” That’s just a small part of the quaint notion at MacKenzie Place that a retirement community should be really fun. And really luxurious, too. And it’s what makes us a bit different from the other retirement communities you may come across. Okay, a lot different. First, we make sure you have nothing to worry about. No cooking. No cleaning. No fixing the house. And then we offer you lots of opportunities to live it up. Travel. Exercise. Art classes. A Brain Fitness Program. And more. You’ll feel like you live in a luxury resort. So, call now to schedule your complimentary lunch and tour. And tell your friends, so you know, you can wear matching outfits.
Visit Us Today! 1605 Elm Creek View | Colorado Springs | 719.633.8181 South of Union Boulevard and Fillmore Street, off of Templeton Gap Road, across from the Nancy Lewis Park The Cottages - For Sale The Terrace - Independent Living Apartments The Arbours - Assisted Living & Memory Care Apartments 55+ | Colorado Springs | Fort Collins | www.MacKenziePlace.com
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