Collin County Texoma Area
Fall/Winter2009 Spring 2010
PLUS:
Florence
Henderson Complimentary Issue
4
CSS • Spring 2008
What Is CHOLESTEROL The Road to a
SATISFYING SEX LIFE
Communication
with Care Providers
Complimentary Issue
A.L.L. Care A.L.L. Care A.L.L. Care Home Services Home Services
A
Home Services
Home care services provided by Whitesboro and Madill offices include: s Skilled Nursing: Wound Care/ Wound Vac, In home telemonitoring, IV/Infusion therapy, INR monitoring, Other services per physician orders
s Home Care Aide:
All CNA’s are trained Alzheimer’s Caregivers
s Physical Therapy s Speech Therapy s Occupational Therapy s Medical Social Services
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You CARE about their personal needs...
They CARE about staying at home...
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Private Duty Services provided by AllCare include: s Sitter Services s 24 hour-care s Housekeeping s Respite s Other services based on individual client needs Family and locally owned and operated for over 16 years proudly serving: Collin, Cooke, Denton, Grayson and Wise Counties in Texas & Bryan, Carter, Coal, Johnston, Love, Marshall, Murray and Pontotoc Counties in Oklahoma Medicare/Medicaid licensed and certified, accept private insurance and private pay. Member of Texas Association for Home Care.
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Texoma Area
SPRING 2010
Publisher’s Notes
Associate Publisher GARY JACOBSON, Scottsdale, AZ
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Features Writer/Copy Editor HELEN V HUTCHINGS
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.
Distribution JENN STEINKE, Colorado CARRIE GANDY, Texas & Oklahoma
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.
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
Texoma Area SENIOR • Spring 2010
Graphic Designers SALLY SUE DUNN MICHAEL REISING
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
ADULT HOME CARE
HOSPITALS continued
24-Hour Live-In Care In Your Home 9 ATTORNEYS
MCSO’s Recent Growth and Expansion Craving A Good Night’s Sleep Exercise is Good for Heart and Soul
Protecting Your Children’s Financial Security 11 DENTISTS Don’t Miss Out On Life A Natural Solution, Dental Implants
13 14
FINANCE & INSURANCE Fast Facts About Reverse Mortgages The Special Needs Trust
17 18
page
55
The Road to a Satisfying Sex Life
Do You Know What to Choose Partners in Education - PIE When Life Hands You More Transitioning from Hospital to Home Breathing Better with COPD More Than Casting a Ballot
20 21 24 27 29 30
page
56
62
page
HOSPITALS Female Incontinence 33 Valley View Provides High-Tech Heart Care 34
PHARMACIES & EQUIPMENT What You Need to Know About Shingles 41 Changes to Extra Help 42 PHYSICIANS
What is Cholesterol
FUNERAL PLANNING What Makes Your Heart Sing 19 HOME HEALTH
35 37 39
Bluetooth Hearing Aids Sudden Cardiac Arrest Taking Care of Your Feet and Ankles Avoiding the Big One Advancements in Glaucoma Treatments Thyroid Control The Road to A Satisfying Sex Life
43 45 47 49 51 53 55
RETIREMENT LIVING Everyone Has Choices Discovery of Recovery Improving Communication Hand Hygiene
59 61 62 65
Improving Communication Texoma Area SENIOR • Spring 2010
ON THE COVER
By: Helen V Hutchings
Florence Henderson on stage in her one-woman show, All the Lives of Me . . . is coming to Texoma. However, as we went to press, the dates and locations for North Texas and Oklahoma performances had not yet 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 .
Texoma Area 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.
Texoma Area SENIOR • Spring 2010
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Article courtesy of Unlimited Care of North Texas hen is it time to with 24-hour around the clock live-in discuss care with care, we have had the honor to care for your parents or over four hundred families. As we look loved ones? Now, toward the future and the need for adalthough this will ditional home care we have expanded probably be one of the most difficult our specialized services to the followconversations that you will ever have, ing counties; Wise, Tarrant, Dallas, understanding that your loved one’s Parker, Rockwall, Fannin, Grayson perception of any outside assistance is along with Cooke and Denton. often seen as a threat to their independence or an invasion of their privacy What makes us different from other will help when having this discussion. home care agencies? When approaching this for the first Knowing how difficult constant change time, it is our hope and goal that they is on our patients, we strive for placewill see the value in having assistance ment of a primary caregiver who will and will eventually develop a trusting stay a minimum of two weeks, with relationship with their caregiver. a replacement caregiver staying for Statistics show that 75%, or 3 out of a week. This monthly cycle provides 4 seniors 65 plus, will need some form both the patient and caregiver the time of home care during their lifetime. To- and consistency to build a trusting reday’s seniors have more options avail- lationship that in a very short time alable to them than ever before. One lows that caregiver to become like an option more and more seniors are turn- additional family member. ing to when their physical capabilities After losing my own dad nineteen diminish or while they recover from a years ago and my mother-in-law this short-term disability is to be treated in past December, my passion for the elthe comfort of their own home. Home derly remains my priority. Our goal is to care is considered by many to be one of treat each of our patients like family. Althe most desirable options because it al- though assisted living facilities and nurslows seniors to maintain their indepen- ing facilities are good, there are those dence while remaining in the one place individuals with the financial means to where they feel most comfortable. remain in their own home, wherever So, have the conversation with that home might be. All they need is a your loved one about “Staying in the trusted caring companion to stay with Comfort of Your Own Home”, wher- them and care for their daily needs. This ever home might be and let Unlimited is what we take pride in providing. Care of North Texas, Inc provide you with the qualified, trusted caregivAuthor Linda DeGraffenreid is the ers of your choice to help with this CFO/Owner of Unlimited Care of process. As Unlimited Care of North North Texas and invites you to call her Texas, Inc enters its 14th year serving for information and free consultation at the Denton and Cooke County areas 940-390-0493
The services that we provide include: •A ssistance with all activities of daily living • Bathing assistance • Dressing assistance • Caring companionship •T ransportation to doctors’ appointments, church events and personal errands • Home-cooked meals • Laundry and light home maintenance • Light housekeeping • Medication Monitoring • RN Delegation, supervised medication set-up and routine visits •A nd, we are licensed, insured and bonded Texoma Area SENIOR • Spring 2010
Craig W. Watson
Estate Tax Planning - Wills, Living Trusts, Asset Protection, Wealth Transfer Planning Elder Law - Nursing Home Medicaid Qualification Probate, Guardianships, Will Contests & Probate Litigation Corporations, Partnerships, LLCs, LLPs Business Law - Ownership Succession, Sales & Purchases of Companies
Over 20 Years of Experience
903.813.8500
craigwwatson.com
805 North Travis Street Sherman Texas 75090 Certified As An Law Attorney AreaElder SENIOR • Spring 2010 by The National Elder Law Foundation As Recognized by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization 10 Texoma
attorneys
Protecting Your Children’s Financial Security
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By: Craig Watson, Attorney at Law ost people who have worked hard all their lives to accumulate assets generally desire those assets to be left to their children in the most beneficial way. However, for some adult children, a large inheritance of assets could be dangerous, both to the children and for the assets. This article summarizes some of the estate planning strategies you can use to protect the assets from the children themselves, their creditors, their spouses, scam artists, and any number of other threats. We all know families in which adult children encountered problems after they left home. These problems could include addiction to drugs and/or alcohol, fiscal irresponsibility, inability to retain a job, or wages inadequate for long-term saving and moving beyond a hand-to-mouth existence. Additionally, unexpected and catastrophic health problems may arise. You probably know someone who experienced financial stress due to a divorce or overspending, and subsequently getting behind on monthly credit card or car loan payments. And there are some adult children with no current financial problems, but through accident or bad choices find themselves in a resultant crisis. These are just a few examples of life’s little hand grenades that can ruin the financial future of your children. In reality, every child, no matter how wealthy, is vulnerable to some degree of financial problems. Therefore, in the best interests of children, it is wise for parents to consider asset protection for the assets their children will inherit. Traditionally, most parents have a Last Will and Testament bequeathing their assets to their children. Once a child inherits these assets, there is very little that can be done to protect the
assets from existing or future creditors. The child cannot defeat the interests of an existing creditor by giving the assets away, putting the assets in trust, or any other strategy. In addition, the executor cannot keep the assets in the estate indefinitely if the Will says the assets are to go to the children. In order to protect against these problems, the parent writing the Will can place very strong protection around the assets they wish to leave the child. In other words, by leaving assets to a child in trust, the parent can make sure their assets remain protected from the child’s creditors. The parent has a rare and fleeting “once in a lifetime” opportunity to set up a carefully drafted and irrevocable spendthrift trust in the Will to forever protect their assets. A trust is basically a contract in which you appoint a trustee to manage the trust’s assets for the greatest benefit of the trust’s beneficiary. The terms of the trust can provide for how much and how often income and/or principal is distributed to the child and for what purposes. For example, the trust can be drafted to supplement the child’s income with a specific or variable amount of money every month, or on an as-needed basis. The trust can provide distributions for health care, education, support, or general welfare. When the child dies, the trust terms can dictate how that the remaining assets are to be distributed to the child’s children, a charity, or another entity chosen by you. Consequently, assets left to your child
in trust are protected from your child’s past, current, and future creditors. A welldrafted trust can prevent the trust assets from becoming community property and thereby becoming vulnerable to the trust beneficiary’s spouse in a divorce. It is even possible to allow the child to be trustee of their trust and therefore have control over the assets you leave him or her. On the other hand, it may be in the best interests of the child for you to appoint someone else to serve as trustee to manage the assets and distribute income or principal to the child as needed. In general, a trust can be established in your Will for your child and customized to your child’s particular situation so that the trust provides the level of asset protection, income protection, asset management, and financial assistance that is in your child’s best interests. Craig Watson has practiced law in Sherman, Texas for almost all of his 20 years of legal practice experience. Formerly a CPA for four years, Craig concentrates his practice in the areas of Estate Planning, Probate, Elder Law and Tax/Corporate Law. He is Board Certified in Elder Law and can be reached at 903-813-8500
Texoma Area SENIOR • Spring 2010
11
General Cosmetic & Implant
DENTISTRY John Shoemaker, D.D.S. 1313 North Travis, Suite 100 Sherman, Texas 75092
903.893.7751
29 Years In Sherman Offering the following services: 8A.M.-5P.M. Mon.-Thurs. 8A.M.-Noon Fridays New Patients Welcome Emergency Treatment Available No interest Financing Available All Major Credit Cards Accepted
Implants Cosmetic Dentistry Crowns and Bridges Dentures and Partials General Dentistry Root Canals
Implant Supported Dentures and Partials Bleaching Gum Treatment Cleanings
Mission Question
Our mission is to help you keep your teeth a lifetime.
Do you like your smile? Can you eat anything comfortable and pain free?
Beginning with a complete exam and the use of modern dental technology there is no reason to go through life with an embarrassing smile or the inability to eat. Call today and let us help you.
John Shoemaker, D.D.S. Over 25 years experience in the placement and restoration of Dental Implants
Graduate Loma Linda University Fellow of Mish Implant Institute Member American College of Oral Implantology Member American Society of Osseointergration Fellow of International Congress of Oral Implantologists American Dental Association
dentists
Don’t Miss Out on Life
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By: John Shoemaker, DDS re missing teeth causing you to miss out on life? Missing teeth and loose dentures make too many people sit on the sidelines and let life pass them by. However, modern treatment plans can replace everything from a single missing tooth to a completely missing arch. Ask your dentist about the different dental implant options that are available to you. Don’t let another day go by without taking this important first step to restoring your confidence and your smile! Stop the bone loss that can lead to premature aging. Losing one or more of your teeth starts a chain of events that can have dire physical and cosmetic consequences. The most obvious result is a gap in your smile. Less obvious is the loss of chewing function and the inability to eat a complete diet that can result from tooth loss. While these are certainly serious issues, a potentially bigger problem lies hidden beneath the surface, bone loss. Your jawbone needs the chewing action of the teeth to stimulate it and keep it strong, otherwise it will begin to atrophy in the same manner that the unused muscles beneath a cast supporting a broken bone gets smaller. Without the support of your teeth and facial bones, your face will begin to look prematurely aged. The good news is that tooth replacement with dental implants offers a solution to help prevent bone loss. Who is a candidate? Dental Implants can be placed in most adults who are in good to moderate health. They are not typically placed in adolescents until they have reached their full-expected physical maturity. Certain uncontrolled medical conditions
may decrease the effectiveness of implant treatment, so be sure to discuss your full medical history with your dentist before beginning treatment. Every patient is different and patient results may vary. Only a trained dentist can determine the best treatment plan for you. Please ask you dentist to explain the benefits and risks to see if tooth replacement with implants is right for you. Dental implants let you eat the foods you love. Dental Implants are the only proven way to prevent bone loss after the loss of natural teeth. Research shows that implant-support prostheses increase patient comfort. Seventy percent of the US population is missing at least one tooth. Traditional treatment options for tooth replacement are crowns, bridges, and full or partial dentures. They address the short-term cosmetic problem of missing teeth, but do nothing to stop bone loss. Crown and bridge also requires that two or more healthy teeth be ground down to serve as abutments (posts) for a bridge, leaving them at a much greater risk for cavities and endodontic failure. If the original abutment teeth fail, more healthy teeth must be sacrificed to serve as posts, while you continue to loose bone beneath the bridge. With implants, however, the healthy teeth are left alone. Dental implants, like natural teeth, also transmit chewing forces to the jawbone, which reduces bone loss. This is why many leading dental organizations now recognize dental implants as the standard of care for tooth replacement. For more information, contact Dr John Shoemaker at 903-893-7751.
Q: Is the implant placement painful? A: No, it is usually done under local anesthesia. Most procedures can be done in your dentist’s office. Q: How much pain will I feel after implant placement? A: The discomfort you may feel should be minor. Your dentist may prescribe medication to alleviate any pain you may have. Q: How long does it take to place dental implants? A: Usually 30-60 minutes, depending on the location and the number of implants. Q: What can I eat after having an implant placed? A: Your dentist will outline a diet for the next few days including some soft foods. Q: How long does placement, healing and construction of the replacement teeth take? A: The entire process usually takes from 2 to 9 months, depending on your treatment plan. Q: How do I care for my implant? A: Home care for you implants consists of brushing and flossing. Regular dental visits are required for long-term health and success. Q: How long does an implant last? A: If your body accepts the implant, it should last many years if cared for properly. Many implants have been in place for more than 40 years. Q: If my body rejects an implant, what happens? A: The implant is removed and the site is allowed to heal. Another implant can usually be placed after healing.
Texoma Area SENIOR • Spring 2010
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A Natural Solution
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Dental Implants
Article courtesy of Southern Oklahoma Center for Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery and Dental Implants edical advances them feel old. Bridges alleviate these fifty years ago and have been accepted have allowed to- problems, but at a price, requiring that in the United States for over thirty years. day’s seniors to an- adjacent healthy teeth be ground down As long term success and satisfaction has ticipate a longer, to accommodate supporting crowns. repeatedly been documented in many more active life- More difficult cleaning and extra load studies, this treatment is becoming recstyle than their parents experienced. on these teeth may compromise their ognized in many situations as the preAn integral factor in these advances long term fate. ferred standard of care. has been dramatic development in Imagine a tooth replacement that dental technology – particularly looks and feels much like your own The advantages dental implants offer treatment with dental implants. natural tooth. Dental implants can offer are many. Among them are: Traditional replacements for lost this by serving as an artificial root for a Preservation of teeth—Implants teeth such as dentures or fixed bridg- single tooth or as stable supports for a stand on their own with no attaches have served well, but often present full arch of teeth. ment to supporting teeth nor grinding limitations. Many folks just never beToday’s implants are revolutionary away of healthy enamel required. The come completely comfortable with the and have continued to evolve and sim- loss of a nearby tooth will not comdiscomfort and loss of taste and func- plify the experience for both the den- promise a large prosthesis or other tion that may be associated with den- tist and the patient. However, they are teeth as may be the case with a bridge tures. Others say that dentures make based on research initiated in Sweden or partial denture.
Specializing in Dental Implants
Ron L. Graves, D.D.S.
In cooperation and through an established team approach, OMS Associates of Southern Oklahoma works closely with your family/restorative dentist developing the ideal treatment plan that meets the individual needs of their patients. Our doctors will surgically place the implant while your dentist creates the replacement teeth. This gentle surgical procedure is performed in the office with general or local anesthesia and sedation. A temporary replacement is then seated following the procedure so that you are never without teeth. Most people return to work the next day. Research has proved that implant- supported replacement teeth last longer than any tooth supported bridge, partials or conventional dentures. Ask your family/restorative dentist about the other numerous benefits associated with dental implants or call our toll free number 800.773.1727.
Patrick L.Wallace, D.D.S.
www.omssok.com 14
Texoma Area SENIOR • Spring 2010
Preservation of Bone—Upper and lower jaw bones atrophy (shrink) when the natural functional stimulation provided by teeth is lost. This shrinkage is typically accelerated by the pressure of dentures. Dental implants provide the necessary healthy stimulation to the bone which eliminates or minimizes this loss. Improved Comfort—The firm implant attachment of teeth eliminates the irritation of dentures and partial dentures on the sensitive gum and palate tissues. Due to the shrinkage discussed above, the loosening of denture fit is progressive, requiring periodic relining and replacement or stabilization with sticky adhesives. Improved Speech—Tooth replacements attached to implants eliminate the mobility of denture prosthesis, no clicking or clacking. Additionally, extension of dentures into the tongue space may be eliminated. Improved Eating Ability—Implant supported teeth allow confident and comfortable chewing of even crunchy or
chewy foods. Eating an apple or steak in public should cause no concern. With no need for denture coverage of the palate, sensation and taste are more natural. Implant supported teeth should facilitate chewing and enjoyment of a normal, healthy diet. Improved Appearance—Loss of jaw bone mass that occurs naturally when teeth are lost, as mentioned above, can negatively affect and significantly age the appearance of facial structures. Additionally, implants can eliminate the need for visible partial denture clasps and, in the case of bridges, eliminate the need for additional artificial crowns. Improved Convenience—A single crown on an implant allows elimination of the time consuming and sometimes difficult daily oral hygiene process required with a bridge. In the case of conventional dentures, t h e elimination of the application and cleaning of sticky adhesives simplifies the daily routine. The very positive impact on quality of life afforded by dental implant treatment
yields great satisfaction for patients. In turn, the positive feedback to the dental health care providers yields tremendous gratification. Thus, it is no surprise that this area of dental treatment continues to rapidly evolve and is progressively embraced by the dental profession as the preferred standard of care in many situations. Happier, healthier patients are the end result. For more information or to schedule an appointment, please contact the offices of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery and Dental Implants at 1-800-773-1727 or 580-226-1727.
See Advertisement Back Cover
Texoma Area SENIOR • Spring 2010
15
Finance & Insurance
Fast Facts about Reverse Mortgages “For many seniors, the solution to “what if” can be found in a reverse mortgage.”
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Article courtesy of 1st Reverse Mortgage USA any seniors share form of monthly repayment. When similar ideals; work the homeowner sells, or has passed, hard, provide for the loan is repaid. Plus the program the family, retire is insured by the Federal government. with the resources The title and ownership is not forto meet basic needs and leave a legacy feited nor are any other rights of the to their family, often in the form of homeowner. You or your heirs decide home equity. While a few have seen when, or if, the home is to be sold and this American dream fulfilled, for many after repaying the loan balance, all reseniors, their efforts have been derailed maining equity in the home belongs by unexpected life events and the ris- to you or your heirs. ing cost of living. These concerns have many seniors worrying with what if ’s: Who qualifies? What if I can no longer make my mort- Qualifying for a reverse mortgage simgage payment? The car breaks down? ply requires that the homeowner(s) be My health takes a turn? 62 years of age or older, that the home For many seniors, the solution to is the primary residence, and the home “what if ” can be found in a reverse must meet standard FHA appraisal mortgage. They have discovered re- guidelines for property type, value and verse mortgages are a safe, secure fi- condition. Since the borrower does not nancial tool that can assist them to re- make a monthly payment, factors such main in their home, free of mortgage as credit rating, income and assets are payments, financially independent, not considered. and with the peace of mind knowing they have the resources to pay for Is it safe? health care, home modifications, or In 1988 HUD adopted reverse mortsimply enjoy life a little more. gages and, with the assistance of conMaking the decision to obtain a gress, enacted laws that put into place reverse mortgage is often wearisome. 12 safeguards that guarantee a senior It is not uncommon for seniors to find will not give up title to their home and it difficult to set aside their belief that will not put themselves, their home or the equity in their home is somehow their family in any financial risk. Paying off limits, or to overcome feelings of off a traditional mortgage with a reverse fear or guilt about pursuing a reverse mortgage secures the home and elimimortgage, even when it may be the best nates any possible risk of foreclosure due solution to meet their financial needs. to an inability to make a monthly mortgage payment. What is a reverse mortgage? It is a financial arrangement that enHow much of the equity may be used ables the home owner to withdraw a and how are the funds received? portion of the home’s equity, yet re- HUD provides authorized lenders main in the home as long as desired. with a tool called a Reverse MortThere are no limits or restrictions on gage Calculator which determines the how the proceeds may be used and no amount of equity available to a hom-
eowner. The determining factors are the borrower’s age, home value and current interest rate. From this calculation, fees are deducted and any existing mortgage balances are paid in full. The amount that remains is available to the homeowner to draw down in lump sum, treat as a line of credit, receive monthly tax-free income, or any combination of these three options. Regardless of how funds are drawn, there are no monthly payments to be made. Interest accrues only against the funds drawn out. Thus all remaining equity belongs to you or your heirs. How can the funds be used? Some seniors obtain a reverse mortgage only as a safety net to be used in emergencies. Others use the funds sparingly for things like home repairs, property taxes, or unexpected expenses. For others, it is the additional taxfree income that makes the difference between just getting by and living comfortably and financially independent in their own home. How do I select a lender? It is not interest rates and fees that distinguish reverse mortgage lenders, it is depth of knowledge. While a growing number of traditional lenders offer reverse mortgages, you will want to select a local lender that is dedicated to being an expert in reverse mortgage lending. AmeriSTATE BANK meets these requirements and are a proud participant in the 1st Reverse Mortgage USA Lender Network® We’re there for you—for us It’s All About Peace of Mind. Contact Jarod Dutton at 903-813-4700 ext 430 today for more information. Texoma Area SENIOR • Spring 2010
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How to Leave an Inheritance to a Disabled Child The Special Needs Trust By: M Keywood Deese, Senior VP & Trust Officer, Vision Bank, NA of Ada f you are the parent or grand- disabled relative. These are irrevocable parent of a developmentally dis- trusts thereby removing the trust asabled child or young adult, you sets from the grandparents’ or parents’ have several special estate planning estate for tax purposes. The purpose challenges. If the disabled child or of the trust is to provide non-essendisabled adult is receiving support tial future needs above the basic food, from the state or federal government, clothing, shelter and medical expenses they usually cannot have more than a that are typically paid for by local, small amount of assets held in their state and federal agencies. The use of name. For example, if they have more this type of trust will not jeopardize than $2,000 in a checking or savings the beneficiary’s continued eligibility account in their name, this could for federal or state aid. threaten their government benefits. The trust funds can be used for So how do you leave a gift or inheri- special educational and travel benefits tance to that disabled heir without that will promote the beneficiary’s losing their government benefits? happiness and welfare. Our bank has Often a Special Needs Trust is estab- many of these types of trusts. We have lished by the grandparents or parents sent many children and young adults for the benefit of a developmentally to Disneyland or purchased special
I
M. Keywood Deese Senior Vice President Trust Officer
computers and music related Christmas or birthday presents from these trust funds. After the disabled beneficiary’s death, the remaining funds or a portion of the funds are often left to other grandchildren or to the facility where the beneficiary resided. Visit with an attorney who is experienced drafting this type of trust. The trust agreement must include very special language to avoid causing problems with the government benefits. This is definitely not the type of trust for amateurs to prepare on their home computers! The author, M Keywood Dreese, is a Senior Vice President & Trust Officer with the Vision Bank in Ada, Oklahoma.
VISION BANK TRUST DEPARTMENT
Since 1942 Living Trusts to Avoid Probate Serving Southeastern Oklahoma & Northeast Texas Education Trusts for Grandchildren Life InsuranceLiving TrustsTrusts to Avoid Probate Executor for Probate of Wills Education Trusts for Grandchildren Guardianship Life Insurance Trusts Personal Portfolio Management Executor for Probate of Wills Joyce Collings Experts in Mineral Management Guardianship Vice President One-Hour Free Estate Planning Conference Personal Portfolio Management Trust Officer Experts in Mineral Management Call for an appointment. Free One-Hour Estate Planning Conference 1-888-332-5132 Call for an appointment in Ada, Durant, or Sherman Ada Durant Shawnee 1-888-332-5132
We do not prepare legal documents, butWe will with your attorney on reviewing estate dowork not prepare legal documents, but willyour work with planyour attorney on ning options.reviewing your estate planning options.
Patty Bailey Vice President Trust Officer
www.visionbankok.com
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Texoma Area SENIOR • Spring 2010
Funeral Planning
What Makes Your Heart Sing? “Do you prefer Back or the Beetles?”
Article courtesy of Dannel Funeral Home o you prefer Bach or the remember the little things that are often Beetles? Does your family the most meaningful. So write it down! know? By preplanning your Do the work for those you love, sparfinal services you keep your family ing them the details and giving you the from having to guess. It helps them chance to state exactly what you want. honor you. And when a service is so Dannel Funeral Home can help. exquisitely tailored to the individual They can walk you through the probeing memorialized, it makes every- cess, or leave materials with you for one present feel better. completion at your convenience. DanYou’ve heard people say, “That was nel has been assisting Texoma families perfect! Hearing Henry’s words read for over 100 years and is honored to were a special touch.” Or, “I had forgot- plan a service that is uniquely you. “We ten how much Jean loved daisies; what a serve people in a way that transcends nice tribute.” any other experience we have on earth Making your own arrangements, because of the nature of death and the now, gives everyone you care about a way it affects us,” says Charles Dannel. gift, later. When people are grieving, it “We appreciate the opportunity to help is sometimes hard to think straight and people move through the most difficult
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and profound time in their lives with dignity and grace.” By preplanning, attention at the time of your death is on your family, where you most want it to be. Besides the many benefits to your family, there are practical reasons to act now. Preplanning locks in today’s rates. It ensures that important information is gathered and kept secure. It gives you a chance to select what you most want. It truly is a gift of thoughtful attention about those things—and people—who matter to you. What music makes your heart sing? For more information on Dannel Funeral Home call us at 903-893-1171.
Will it be a part of your services?
FUNERAL HOME
Discover the benefits of preplanning.
Comforting Texoma families for 100 years
302 S. WALNUT @ JONES • SHERMAN, TEXAS • 903.893.1171 • www.dannelfuneralhome.com Texoma Area SENIOR • Spring 2010
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It’s Your Choice!
Do You Know What You Choose?
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By: Sherry Little, Executive Director, Home Hospice of Grayson, Cooke and Fannin Counties ne unmistakable truth ties, assisted living facilities, and hosHow do I communicate my wishes to that few of us want to pice providers will give you valuable my family? hear is that we will, information and allow informed deci- Opening these discussions with those who someday, die. Given sion-making for you and your family. It love us—and never want to contemplate the that fact, are you pre- will allow you to choose who cares for possibility of life without us—is difficult. pared for your own final journey? There you when the time of need arises. There are a myriad of opportunities that are many questions that each of us needs can give us a launching pad; movies, family to ask and answer to ensure that this Depending on the level of illness, what funerals, television, holidays, and even the special journey will be all that it can be, do I want my physician and other care birth of a child or grandchild. Remember, and that it will be neither burdensome providers to do for me? investigation into the possibilities, deternor gut-wrenching for those we love. Making choices about treatments such mining your own choices, recording them as the placement of feeding tubes and and discussing your reasons, is a gift, not What options for care are available and ventilators during certain situations a burden. Actually, it is most often a relief which do I choose for myself? is a very personal matter. Exploring for those we care about for then they know Exploring the resources for care avail- the details and results of any possible what you want and don’t have to guess. able in your community and whether treatment or other option for care alor not they meet your own life goals lows you to make those choices for For more information or guidance with is an important step in preparation for yourself and complete advance direc- these issues of preparation, or to have somea possible critical or chronic illness. tives reflecting those choices. Why one speak to your group about how to be preInvestigating treatment centers, home leave those choices to anyone else if pared, call or email Home Hospice at 903health agencies, long-term care facili- you can make them for yourself? 868-9315 or info.hospice@homehospice.org
End-of-life Care Options
Let me decide What services will best benefit me?
What are my spiritual, financial & emotional needs?
What level of pain control is right for me?
How can I ensure that my family receives support?
Call for our free informational DVD.
Serving Cooke County
You have choices! a nonprofit hospiCe GoVerneD By loCal leaDers
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Texoma Area SENIOR • Spring 2010
1001 e. BroaDway • GainesVille
•
940.665.9891 • www.homehospice.org
P.I.E.
P
Home Health & Hospice
(Partners in Education)
.I.E. is collaborative effort designed to bring educational programs to the North Texas area. The speakers are all experts in his or her field and each program is designed to educate the attendee, along with providing an opportunity for questions of the presenter. These talks are presented as a public service and there is no fee to attend. The Area Agency on Aging, Home Hospice of Grayson, Cooke & Fannin Counties, LIFE Center Specialty Hospital, Texoma Council of Government and Wilson N. Jones Medical Center are delighted to provide this series to our communities. The P.I.E. series will be presented on the second Tuesday of each month
from February through November of 2010, from 12-1 p.m. at LIFE Center Specialty Hospice which is located at 1111 Gallagher Road in Sherman. Pie and coffee will be served to those in attendance and if you would like a “to-go lunch” from the cafeteria at LIFE Center Specialty Hospital, you may go through the cafeteria line. If you mention you are getting a takeout lunch for the P.I.E. seminar, you will receive a 10% discount. If you have questions about these seminars, you may call Nancy Russell, from Home Hospice, 903-868-9315, Nora Habal from TCOG at 903-813-3506 or Cheryl Brandon of Wilson N. Jones at 903-813-8747.
The following seminars are scheduled: March 9 - Dr. Hunter Richmond, “Springtime in Texas: Nothing to Sneeze About” April 13 - Dr. Deborah Fisher, “Pain – Can You Control It?” May 11 - Ms. Vickie White, “You CAN Take It With You (Pack to Travel) June 8 - Mr. Michael Miller, “Digging Up Roots—The Family Kind, v.2.0”
A family caregiver resource
Get good information Medical aspects • Emotional issues • Spiritual support Legal matters • Financial decisions Provided locally by Home Hospice of Grayson, Cooke and Fannin Counties
Texoma Area SENIOR • Spring 2010
21
When Life Hands You More Than You Think You Can Handle!
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By: Jan Lehmann, Owner, Changing Seasons Home Health & Heavensent Caregivers s she stood looking until the phone call to the surgical bladder. “The good news” was the down at her husband waiting room. It seemed that as the cancer had not broken out into the lying in his bed asleep surgeons were closing the incision a rest of his body. she realized that over Just as she was trying to understand the past few days their and cope with, how do you live without “It does not require a lives had taken one of those cataa bladder? The reality of what her husstrophic changes people talk about. band was going to have to face in the doctor or case manager Just a couple of weeks ago, as life was days, weeks, and years to come began to to refer a person to home going along happily, blood had been set in. Within days after the surgery she health; the individual or found in his urine. That is when the was with him at home after only havfamily member may call blur of activities began. A quick reing had a short training session at the for a consultation.” ferral to a bladder specialist was arhospital on how to care for his wound ranged. An emergency cat scan was from the surgery, and the Stoma (infecordered, where a stone was identified tions must be prevented). She would in a pocket of his bladder and was call from the lab said the biopsy re- also need to order urostomy supplies. causing irritation and bleeding. Sur- vealed that there were several cells of Not having a clue where she could find gery was quickly scheduled to remove a very aggressive type of cancer and these, she began searching the internet. the stone. All this seemed so simple, they were going to have to remove his In all this she had already missed too
“She made sure I had the best care growing up...Now I want to make sure she has the best care.” Services Available: • Caring Companion • Bathing & Grooming • Dressing • Meals & Feeding • Light Housekeeping & Laundry • Shopping • Escorting – to park, to visit a friend or to scheduled appointments
Care for Adults & Seniors
In-Home Care for Adults and Seniors • Our Caregivers are thoroughly screened, trained & supervised • We accept cash, credit cards & long-term care insurance • State licensed Two Locations: Sherman, Texas Durant, Oklahoma (580) 931-3112 (903) 868-1339 www.heavensentcaregivers.com
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Texoma Area SENIOR • Spring 2010
Home Health & Hospice
much work. Their children lived out of state and had small children to care for. Even with her strong faith, she still felt so alone and overwhelmed. Then she heard the doorbell ring. It was a “Home Health Nurse”. Thank the Lord someone was here to help. This same scenario is happening many times each day in this country. The diagnosis may be different but the fear and need for HELP is the same. The answer is Home Health Services. Medicare and many private insurance companies cover home health services. These are skilled nurses that come directly to the patient’s home and give one on one care. No waiting behind those ugly green curtains or in a room full of sick people. To qualify for Medicare coverage for home health services, you must have difficulty or need assistance leaving home, have a plan of care from your doctor, and be in need of either a
skilled nurse to come to your home to oversee your health condition, require a physical therapist to help you get your strength back, or a speech therapist to help you regain or improve your swallowing or speech. There is not a prior hospitalization requirement and services are fully covered as long as they are reasonable and necessary. There is no limit to the number of visits or the length of coverage under Medicare. To qualify for private insurance coverage, a case manager will speak with the home health nurse to determine the services that you will need and how many visits can be made. The average person is not aware of the availability of Home Health Services. Often the doctor’s office is so busy that they forget to discuss home health with the patient. The hospital case managers and physicians frequently refer patients to home health; however, in the case above it
was not offered, as is often the case. Thank goodness the wife of the patient above was aware of Home Health availability. It is up to the patient to take advantage of this service. It does not require a doctor or case manager to refer a person to home health; the individual or family member may call for a consultation. The concept of providing health and other human support services in the home, rather than an institutional setting is timely. In an era when the massive U.S. health industry is crying out for ways to control its spiraling costs and critics are decrying the depersonalization by our institutionally oriented health system, Home Health Services is one of the answers. For more information on Changing Seasons Home Health or Heavensent Caregivers please call 903-868-3648 or 903-868-1339.
“We can help during those difficult seasons of life.” “There are times in life when we just can’t do it on our own. When those times come, call Changing Seasons Home Health.” Services Available • Skilled Nurses • Speech, Physical & Occupational Therapists • Home Health Aides • Social Worker & Counselors
Jan Lehmann Owner
Ecclesiastes 3:1 “To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under heaven”. “The Premier Home Health of North Texas” Serving Texoma Since 1995 (903) 868-3648 600 N. Crockett St. Sherman, TX 75090 www.changingseasonshomehealth.com We accept Medicare and Private Insurance
Texoma Area SENIOR • Spring 2010
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Home Health & Hospice
Transitioning from
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Hospital to Home
By: Nicole A Morgan, OTR, Home Modification Specialist, 1st Texas Home Health dmission and discharge modifications or equipment that may However, a simple list will not give you from any hospital can be needed? specifics of what each agency provides. be stressful, intimidating Will help be needed with bathing, dressRemembering the “three Bs” can and sometimes life alter- ing and basic daily activities such as cook- help discharge planning go smoothly. ing. Many decisions must ing, cleaning, laundry and shopping? First, be realistic regarding physical, be made when you or your loved one is Will help be needed with setup or emotional and mental outcomes for ready to come home. Case managers are education related to medications, train- the long term. Second, be persistent in place within the healthcare system to ing on wound care, therapeutic inter- asking questions, learning all you can assist families and their loved ones with vention with occupational, physical or about the discharge expectations and discharge planning and can answer ques- speech therapies, or other techniques of physical outcomes. Third, be prepared tions about the discharge process while specific care? as much as possible prior to discharge the patient is still in the hospital. What resource in the community can to ensure smoothest possible transiDischarge planning is a part of hos- help with necessary home modifica- tion. Being prepared reduces stress pital, inpatient rehabilitation centers, tions and would have an understanding that is associated with a hospital stay skilled nursing and long term care fa- of special needs related to transitioning and subsequent discharge. Discharge cilities. So what exactly is it? Medicare home from the hospital? It is a good idea planning is short term planning to get defines discharge planning as a process to keep a notebook, preferably one with you or your loved one home from the used to decide what a patient needs for a pockets to hold brochures and business hospital and is not designed to be a smooth transition from one level of care cards, to write down names, numbers, blueprint for afterward. to another. How transition is handled is medications, community resources and First Texas Home Health and Lifecritical to the health and well being of preferred providers. Instructions and Time Designs can help with transithe patient. Ideally the process of learn- lists of needed services and equipment tioning home from hospital or faciling how to transition home should be- for the discharge home should also be ity. LifeTime Designs is a community gin at admittance to the hospital and recorded here too. resource offering expertise of CAPS should involve the patient, family and Is special training to learn safe transfer (Certified Aging in Place Specialist), healthcare providers. to the car, toilet, bed or chair needed? certified contractors who work under Can transfer training be learned in the the guidance of an occupational theraSome tips and questions to keep in hospital or will someone follow through pist who is a Home Modification Spemind when planning to discharge once patient is home? It is best to start cialist and also CAPS certified. A team home from hospital, skilled nursing, training and learning in the hospital. A will come to the home either after the long term care, or rehabilitation therapist can advise about expected out- discharge or while the patient is still facility include: comes and what should be done at home hospitalized, and evaluate and give Is the patient’s home clean, adequately such as an exercise program or ways to recommendations for safety and acheated and cooled, comfortable, safe and accomplish activities of daily living. It is cess modifications. First Texas Home is there space for any additional equip- better to learn early instead of the day Health offers a holistic transition-toment that might be needed? of discharge. Be involved in the therapy home program called FIRST (FuncAre there stairs to get into the house? process and treatment plan. Ask for edu- tional Independence Related to Safety Do they have sturdy hand rails? cational reading material if available. Training). The program involves each Who can help make the home safe A home health agency may offer a discipline of the healthcare team. in order to prevent injury or falls thus transition-to-home program that inavoiding an additional unexpected trip cludes teaching with transfers, safety in Author Nicole A Morgan, OTR, is a back to the hospital? the home environment, medications, Home Modification Specialist with First Will a ramp be needed? Are grab bars and therapeutic programs involving Texas Home Health. You can reach First needed in the bathroom to prevent falls? both the patient and caregiver. Request Texas Home Health at 903-892-3222 for Will Medicare pay for the home a list of agencies serving your county. more information. Texoma Area SENIOR • Spring 2010
27 27
Legacy of Caring
COPD
can be a devastating disease. Let Jordan Health Services play a key role in the Care and Management of your COPD needs. Jordan Provides: Cardio-Respiratory assessments Prevention strategies Medication teaching focus Self care management Safe use of Oxygen Healthy eating Symptom management
If you or a family member suffers from COPD call us today to see how our Home Care staff can help you.
121 W. Lamberth Road, Suite A Sherman, TX 75092 903.892.3163 800.64.NURSE (800.646.8773) www.jhsi.com
Home Health & Hospice
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Breathing Better with COPD
By: Brittany Hartman & Kathy Stevens, Jordan Health Services or many of us those New smoking is key. It is the single most efYear’s resolutions have fective way to prevent the development been forgotten, but for of COPD. If you already have COPD, those with chronic ob- quitting can slow down or even stop the structive pulmonary dis- progression. It is never too late to quit. ease (COPD), there is no better time Talk to your physician about smoking to resolve to breathe better. cessation medications and programs to COPD is a serious lung disease that help you quit. over time makes it difficult to breathe. A little exercise goes a long way. Light COPD is also known as emphysema exercise can make you feel more enerand chronic bronchitis. COPD is the getic while conditioning your muscles. fourth leading cause of death in the Exercise at any level holds benefits for United States and causes serious, long- COPD patients, but before jumping term disability. into any exercise program; be sure to The “airways” are the tubes that carry consult with your physician. air in and out of the lungs through the A healthy diet is important, but nose and mouth. Healthy airways and for people with chronic obstructive air sacs in the lungs are elastic, mean- pulmonary disease, eating well is even ing they bounce back to their original more crucial to overall health. Good shape after being stretched or filled with nutrition helps COPD patients fight air; just the way a new rubber band or infections, prevent illness, and may cut balloon does. This elastic quality helps down on hospital visits. retain the normal structure of the lung As with any disease it is very imand ensure the air moves quickly in and portant to follow the treatment advice out. In people with COPD, the air sacs of your health care practitioner. Treatno longer bounce back to their origi- ment of COPD is different for everynal shape. The airways can also become one, so be sure to take your medications swollen or thicker than normal, and and follow your doctor’s advice on how mucus production might increase. The to treat your disease. If you have quesfloppy airways become partially blocked tions—ASK! See your doctor regularly, or obstructed, making it even harder to even if you are feeling fine, and be sure get air in and out of the lungs. and take a list of all your medications Symptoms of COPD include; a chron- with you to the doctor. ic cough, shortness of breath while doing Avoid exposure to pollutants. Try simple activities such as getting dressed, to stay away from things that could irand coughing up mucus. The most com- ritate your lungs, like dust and strong mon cause of COPD is repeated expo- fumes. Stay indoors when the outside sure to tobacco smoke. This includes air quality is poor. Steer clear of cigayour own or someone else’s. Other things rette smoke. Take precautions against that could put you at risk are exposure to the flu. Avoid crowds during flu seachemical fumes, dust, and air pollution son and always remember your flu and over a long period of time. pneumonia vaccine. You can never There are many things you can do to undo the damage done to your lungs make living with COPD easier: Quitting but following these steps can help pre-
vent COPD as well as make living with the disease much easier. S If you or someone you know has COPD, please let Jordan help. Our skilled staff of health professionals can provide cardio-pulmonary assessments, medication teaching, self-care, safe use of oxygen, healthy eating, and management of symptoms. Ask today how you can get more information for you or your family about COPD by contacting 800-64-NURSE (800-646-8773) or go to www.jhsi.com.
“As with any disease it is very important to follow the treatment advice of your health care practitioner.” Texoma Area SENIOR • Spring 2010
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More Than Casting a Ballot
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By: Krista Waitt & Amy Jones-Goedecke rimaries are over and the Many Americans do not register to stage is set for the 2010 vote. Many who register do not exergeneral election. What cise their right to vote. And of those role will you play during citizens who actually go to the polls, the election year? What many feel that once the ballot is cast, role will you play once the election their civic duty is complete until the is over? And more importantly, what next election comes around. Abstainrole are you playing politically out- ing from voting is the wrong choice. side of elections? Only casting a ballot is the wrong 30
Texoma Area SENIOR • Spring 2010
choice. Doing nothing is the wrong choice. There is much more required of us, as Americans‌ Our country was meant to be governed by the people, but if we choose silence and do not take an active role in the political process, we may very well watch our freedoms dwindle away and leave our children with a government that looks
Home Health & Hospice
less and less like a democracy. We must inform our elected officials of our needs, of the governing actions we expect them to take, of the liberties we need them to protect, and of the fact that we expect our vote to do more than just be counted on Election Day. If we do these things, we have done our part, and we will leave a legacy of which to be proud. For an example of how to be politically responsible and active, take a look at Amy Jones-Goedecke, RN, BSN, owner of Whitesboro/Pilot Point Home Health, Inc. For years, Goedecke has been an active participant in the political process as evidenced by her public support of candidates, participation in lobbying efforts in Washington, DC and Austin, Texas, and by simple acts of letter writing, emails and phone calls to elected officials regarding important issues. She states, “When you sit back and look at what has transpired over the past several months in Washington, DC, one has to be thankful for a Democratic government, however left the vote may swing. Our industry (home care) could have been one of the hardest hit by some recent bills on the House and Senate floors, but the Texas Association for Home Care and Hospice (TAHCH) and many other state associations, together with their members, fought hard to let Congress know that the proposed legislation would virtually devastate home care. Cuts such as those proposed would have left many Medicare beneficiaries without needed health care and would have put many home care agencies out of business, only adding to the unemployment rate and further economic decline of our nation. In late 2009, TAHCH put together a delegation of five people to
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represent our membership in Washington, DC, and I was honored to be part of that group. Our sole purpose was to let Congress know the home care industry’s position regarding health care reform. We met with Senators and Congressmen, pushing the message through in person, while our employees and patients back home continued to make phone calls and send letters and emails, urging opposition to legislation that would be detrimental to home care. All of these efforts combined played important roles in the health care reform debate thus far, and in 2010, our voices continue to be heard. As each new bill is introduced, we will continue to fight and prove to DC that we expect action to be taken to protect home care for our patients and our employees and our country.” There are times that one may feel his or her voice is not being heard, but the majority of the time, that voice is heard and the elected officials listen closely and take into account the desires and needs of their constituents. Whether your issue is related to health care reform (as in Goedecke’s example) or moral standards, economic concerns or something different, you have a right and a responsibility to make your opinion known to the governing body of this State and Nation. If you do not know who your elected officials are or how to contact them, visit www.tahc.org and click on the Political Advocacy Center link in the middle of the home page, from there you can follow the links on the left for Who Represents Me? Co-authors Krista Waitt and Amy Jones-Goedecke are each RN, BSN with Whitesboro/Pilot Point Home Health, Inc. You may reach Whitesboro/Pilot Point Home Health by calling 903-564-7709.
Chris and Amy Goedecke with US Congressman Ralph Hall
“Our industry (home care) could have been one of the hardest hit by some recent bills on the House and Senate floors, but the Texas Association for Home Care and Hospice (TAHCH) and many other state associations, together with their members, fought hard to let Congress know that the proposed legislation would virtually devastate home care.” - Amy Goedecke, RN, BSN, owner of Whitesboro/Pilot Point Home Health, Inc. Texoma Area SENIOR • Spring 2010
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THE DOCTOR CAN SEE YOU
NOW.
Our doors are open. Medical equipment is in place. Physicians, nurses, staff … we are ready to care for you. But there’s no need to wait until something goes wrong with your body. You can come and visit us for a wellness check or just to check out our gift to the community. It’s a big gift – 165 private patient rooms, 26 exam rooms in the emergency department, two new 64-slice CT scanners, advanced cardiac catheterization, hotel-style meal room-service … and a stunning cafeteria. Convenient location and easy access for all of Texoma –Intersection of US Hwy 75 and State Road 691 in Denison Call our free physician referral service to locate a doctor and learn about their background and specialty. Direct DoctorsSM Plus 903.416.DOCS (3627)
The New
www.texomamedicalcenter.net
This is your hospital. Become a fan Physicians are on the medical staff of Texoma Medical Center, but, with limited exceptions, are independent practitioners who are not employees or agents of Texoma Medical Center. The hospital shall not be liable for actions or treatments provided by physicians. Facebook is a registered trademark of Facebook, Inc.
Hospitals
Female Incontinence
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By: Andrew Broselow, MD, FACOG, TexomaCare emale urinary incontinence cation is used. There are several on the is a problem faced by many. market, and it can take a bit of trial and Incontinence is defined as error to find one that works. The mediuncontrolled loss of urine, cations by and large are well tolerated. and can affect young and The main side effects can be a dry mouth old alike. Women often find themselves and sleepiness. These medications canhesitant or embarrassed to bring it up not be taken if a person has certain medwith their doctor. It can be a minor nui- ical conditions, such as glaucoma. sance or a source of physical and emoStress incontinence is normally tional suffering. There are several causes. caused by an imperfection in anatomy. Fortunately, most women can be cured Most people have heard of a “falling or at least relieved to a large extent. bladder”, but this can mean various The two most common types of things. The symptoms are loss of urine incontinence are “urge” and “stress”. Women sometimes have both which is called “mixed” incontinence. Urge incontinence is usually caused by an overactive bladder, while stress incontinence is generally caused by a physical defect. While the diagnosis is typically straightforward, specialized testing is occasionally needed. Your doctor will begin by asking you questions, such as how many times you have to get up at night to urinate, activities that worsen it, and so on. He may test you for a urinary tract infection, and order other tests to rule out medical conditions such as diabetes. He will do a thorough examination. On occasion, he may send you for testing called urodynamics, in which bladder pressures and other factors are measured. “Women often find themselves Urge incontinence is more often than not treated with medication, but there are hesitant or embarrassed to other things to try. Sometimes a change bring it up with their doctor. in diet is helpful. For instance, caffeine and chocolate can irritate the bladder. Fortunately, most women can There are specialized clinics that may offer biofeedback, where you learn to conbe cured or at least relieved to trol your symptoms through behavior a large extent.” modification. Getting up at night to urinate may simply be a symptom of drink- Dr. Andrew Broselow ing too many fluids before bedtime! If those measures don’t work, medi-
with certain activities, such as running, coughing, sneezing, or bending over to do something like gardening. While the diagnosis is simple to make, the actual abnormality can be difficult to locate. Again, certain tests may be needed if the diagnosis is unclear. There are effective treatments for stress incontinence. The treatments range from simple pelvic exercises called Kegels, up to major surgery. The treatment depends on the abnormality, the severity of the problem, whether someone can tolerate surgery, and most importantly, the patient’s wishes. The goal of treatment is to make the woman completely dry. Unfortunately, this is sometimes hard to achieve, but most every woman can be helped to a certain degree. Despite advances in medical knowledge and technology, urinary incontinence treatment remains an inexact science. Sometimes repeat surgeries are needed, and sometimes medicines don’t work. There are several types of physicians that can help incontinence. Start with your primary care physician, because he or she can often solve the problem. Other specialties include gynecologists, urologists, and a new specialty called urogynecology. Urogynecologists specialize in female incontinence, and may often deal with complicated cases. In summary, urinary incontinence is common. Women should feel free to bring up the problem with their doctor. As is often the case, you may feel self-conscious, but remember that your doctor has seen many cases like yours and can’t help unless you initiate the discussion. For more information or to schedule an appointment with Dr Andrew Broselow, please call 903-416-6272. Texoma Area SENIOR • Spring 2010
33
Valley View Provides High-Tech Heart Care
Article courtesy of Valley View Regional Hospital ith a new and improved body and easily visualize vascular de$1.4 million heart cath tail through any body thickness. “Not lab, Valley View Regional only can our cardiologists see the Hospital provides Ada and area resi- smallest detail, they can safely madents with heart care close to home. neuver small medical devices through “With our new high-tech, all-digi- the body’s vessels,” said Kristie Ratal cardiovascular imaging system, we chel, Valley View’s cardiovascular lab can see images of the blood vessels and supervisor. “In addition, radiation the anatomy of the heart like never exposure is at the very minimum.” before,” said Tim Medcalf, MD and For patients, the new cath lab proa Valley View cardiologist. “We have vides convenience as well. With the new sharper images and because of that technology, patients don’t have to unwe can better pinpoint the diagnosis dergo multiple procedures which elimifor our cardiovascular patients. This nates a great deal of stress. technology is the same as what larger Barbara Quinlan, an Ada native, hospitals use all across the country knows firsthand the benefits of havand we have it right here in Ada.” ing cardiovascular care close to home. By using 3D digital images, Valley “With Valley View’s new technology, View physicians can clearly see the my physician was able to access my tiniest blood vessels throughout the wrist artery for a procedure which
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“This technology is the same as what larger hospitals use all across the country and we have it right here in Ada.” meant less pain and a shorter recovery for me,” said Quinlan. “I consider it a blessing to have this kind of high-tech, high-touch care right here in Ada.” Of the $1.4 million, $250,000 was provided by Valley View Foundation and Valley View’s maintenance department provided all the labor. The cath lab equipment was acquired earlier but was put on hold. “This specialized equipment required specific installation and the appropriate facility environment,” said Bob Thompson, Valley View president. We waited until we had the funding to do it right.”
Every heart tells a story. You just have to listen. Valley View Regional Hospital is proud to offer the same innovative, up-to-date technology used in larger hospitals across the country. We are ready to provide excellent heart care with the latest diagnostic equipment and renovations to the cath lab. Why go anywhere else?
Managed b y Me rc y {ÎäÊ °Ê " / Ê6 -/ ÊUÊ ]Ê" " ÊÇ{nÓä
580-332-2323
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Texoma Area SENIOR • Spring 2010
Ada cardiologists Tim Medcalf, MD, and Fionnuala Gurley, MD
Hospitals
MCSO’s Recent Growth and Expansion
Article courtesy of Medical Center of Southeaster Oklahoma he Medical Center of Southeast- system for patient and technologist, narern Oklahoma continues to ex- row tube head for easy and relaxed patient pand and add additional services positioning. In addition to digital mamfor our communities. Our parent com- mography, MCSO has also completed the pany, Health Management Associates construction of a new fluoroscopy room. (HMA), now operates 56 hospitals in 15 With these additions and improvements, states. MCSO was built in 1986 and was MCSO’s diagnostic imaging department originally 103 beds. After our recent con- is now the only fully-digital diagnostic imstruction, we are now a 148 bed facility. aging center in the area. We added the Senographe® EssenIn 2009, MCSO added an orthopedic tial, GE’s newest full-field digital mam- surgeon, Dr Carl Huff, and also pediatrimography system, a significant equip- cian, Dr Paul Varughese. Upcoming rement upgrade. Patient benefits include: cruitment activities include an additional Quicker exams. Reduced times between orthopedic surgeon, family practice, pediexposures allows several exposures per atrics and urology. Including general mediminute, patient-friendly design. Flexible, cal services, the MCSO staff physicians also off-centered, ergonomic paddles, curved, provide specialty services that include ear, comfortable design, thoughtfully placed nose and throat; cardiology; cosmetic and handles and refined chest compression reconstructive surgery; general and vascular capabilities with automatic release option, surgery; obstetrics and gynecology; opheasy wheelchair access, easier access to the thalmology; orthopedics; and urology.
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Projects and expansions in 2009 have included: • Increase from 120 beds to 148 beds • New Surgical Suite and endoscopy room • New surgery waiting area • Added 8 progressive care beds • Added 20 private medical/ surgical beds • New staff education department • New private dining area • New parking lot
Medical Center of Southeastern Oklahoma is located at 1800 University Boulevard, Durant, Oklahoma. Please visit our website for a list of specialties and services we have to offer at www. mymcso.com Or contact us by phone at 580-924-3080
Texoma Area SENIOR • Spring 2010
35
Hospitals
Craving A Good
Nights Sleep?
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Article courtesy of Wilson N. Jones Medical Center n March, when the clocks anything wrong. Some attribute the “spring forward” for daylight rise in sleep disorders to the growing savings time, we all lose some- rate of obesity, which is a risk factor thing precious – an hour of for one of the most common types of sleep. That may not seem very sleep disorders – obstructive sleep apimportant, but we have become a na“The WNJ Sleep Center tion of sleep-deprived individuals. Experts say that most adults require has the latest technology eight hours of sleep a night to functo diagnose sleep disortion at their best. However, the maders. Appointments will jority of us are getting less than 6-7 be made by physician hours most nights. referral, so contact your Dr. Muqdad Zuriqat, board certified sleep specialist and medical director doctor’s office first if you for the WNJ Sleep Center, said there have sleep concerns. are a growing number of patients seeking help with sleep disorders. Many of these disorders can have permanent nea. “There are many sleep disorders. and sometimes fatal consequences. Sleep apnea, in which people temOften people do not realize there is porarily stop breathing while asleep,
can increase a person’s risk of having hypertension, myocardial infarction, stroke, diabetes, and work-related accidents,” said Dr. Zuriqat. Other common sleeping disorders include narcolepsy, insomnia, restless legs syndrome and snoring. The WNJ Sleep Center has the latest technology to diagnose sleep disorders. Appointments will be made by physician referral, so contact your doctor’s office first if you have sleep concerns. Each patient will receive a comprehensive evaluation. The center is located on the third floor of the Wilson N. Jones Medical Center. For more information please call 903-868-2800. Texoma Area SENIOR • Spring 2010
37
BIG-CITY CARE … WITHOUT THE BIG CITY A life well-lived is a life worth celebrating. Celebrating the good times past … as well as the great times to come. And that means taking great care of the health that has brought you through all of the moments, the memories and the milestones. That’s why INTEGRIS Marshall County Medical Center is proud to say we’ve been on the journey right along with you – watching your children grow up, caring for your family’s health and seeing to it that all of our neighbors and friends have the medical expertise, technological abilities and comprehensive services of Oklahoma’s largest healthcare network, INTEGRIS Health, right here at home.
PHYSICIAN • PATIENT • TECHNOLOGY • PROCEDURE • COMMUNITY BENEFIT • AWARENESS
Expert Team, Immediate Care
A STROKE OF
And thanks to your support, we were able to renovate, expand and completely remodel our facility to offer an even greater level and more expansive range of specialized care to the people of Marshall County and the surrounding areas. We provide many services, including: Diagnostic Services: Our diagnostic services include computed tomography, bone densitometry, MRI, diagnostic imaging, ultrasound and teleradiology. Emergency Services: Our new emergency department is fully staffed 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Lab Services: The state’s premier medical laboratory, Diagnostic Laboratory of Oklahoma, is located inside our facility. More than 11,000 specimens from more than 2,000 physicians’ offices and hospitals statewide are processed here every day, with nearly all test results returned in less than 24 hours. Jim Thorpe Physical Rehabilitation: Our physical therapy services include school-based, outpatient and inpatient care, treating the entire spectrum of trauma and injury – from brain injury and stroke to amputations.
THE INTEGRIS TELESTROKE NETWORK When a patient arrives in the ER having stroke symptoms, time is of the essence. INTEGRIS Marshall County Medical Center and the revolutionary Telestroke Network now put time on your side. When a patient arrives having stroke symptoms, our team of experts uses this unique system to do an assessment – in real time – with a board certified neurologist.
INSTANT EXPERTISE Here’s how TeleStroke saves lives: virtual sharing of all images and indicators means on-call neurologists can provide immediate evaluation by teleconference and teleradiology 24/7. This eliminates the need for quick patient transfer, so critical stroke therapy can be applied sooner. In short, it’s cutting-edge telemedicine technology, and the kind of innovative care you can expect from the area’s most experienced hospital – INTEGRIS Marshall County Medical Center. For more information call 580-795-3384.
Surgery Services: Our surgery department includes two surgical suites, one gastrointestinal endoscopy room and a five-bed post-anesthesia care unit for your recovery. For more information about all of the healthcare services we provide for all ages, contact us anytime at 580-795-3384. integris-telestroke.com 580-795-3384
Hospitals
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-
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“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 Texoma Area SENIOR • Spring 2010
39
We Do it Right. We Do it Right Here.
What makes our hospital different? Our Caring Complete Inpatient and Outpatient Services State-of-the-Art Cardiac and Vascular Diagnostics, Vascular Surgery Cardiac and Pulmonary Rehabilitation Center CT-Scan, Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), Nuclear Medicine Digital Mammography DEXA Bone Density Scanning 24-Hour Physician-Staffed Emergency Department Speech, Occupational and Physical Therapy Home Health - Serving Cooke and Neighboring Counties
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“INSPIRATIONS” Outpatient Counseling Service for Those Age 55 and Older 1615 Hospital Boulevard, Suite A, Gainesville 40
Texoma Area SENIOR • Spring 2010
Call 940-612-1200 for information.
Pharmacies & Equipment
What you need to know about shingles
Article courtesy of The Medicine Shoppe Pharmacy hingles is a painful skin rash, often istered in the outer area of the upper arm. with blisters that usually appear on It is a live vaccine, so it should not be givone side of the face or body and en to anyone who is severely ill, running generally lasts from two to four weeks. a fever of 101.3 or higher, or to anyone The main symptom is pain, which can with a weakened immune system, such as be quite severe. For about one in five in- those with HIV/AIDS, those undergoing divduals, the pain can continue even af- chemotherapy, or those with a history of ter the rash clears up. Shingles is caused leukemia or lymphoma. by the Varicella Zoster virus which is the The shingles vaccine is called Zossame virus that causes chickenpox. Only tavax. It generally runs around $225 someone who has had chickenpox or the for the injection, but since one dose chickenpox vaccine can get shingles. You provides lifetime immunity, this is only can’t catch shingles from another person a one time expense. Some insurance with shingles. However, someone who plans, including Medicare part D plans, has never had chickenpox can get chick- do cover the vaccine, some do not. Unenpox from someone with shingles, al- like the flu and pneumonia vaccines, the though this is not very common. shingles vaccine is not covered by MediThere is now a vaccine available to pre- care part B. Many pharmacies, like ours, vent shingles for people over 60 years of offer the vaccine on a walk-in basis, with age. It is given as a single dose, subcuta- no prescription needed. We would be neous (under the skin) injection admin- glad to check with your insurance plan
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to see what your out of pocket expense would be for the vaccine if you are interested. Shingles can be a very debilitating condition. Get vaccinated today!
“There is now a vaccine available to prevent shingles for people over 60 years of age.... one dose provides lifetime immunity.”
Medication. Answers. Peace of Mind. Free delivery & friendly, personal service from a pharmacy team that knows you by name. Rick Acker
Medication. Answers. Peace of Mind. R.Ph.
800 West Main•Denison
(903) 463‐3985 Rick Acker, R.Ph.
Rick Acker . R.PhPharmD John Pate,
www.medicineshoppe.com ©2006 Medicine Shoppe International, Inc., a Cardinal Health Company. All rights reserved. 814a15
Jana Bennett, R.Ph.
-Immunization -Custom compounding -Knowledgeable staff Westtesting Main•Denison -We file Medicare part B 800 for diabetic supplies & diabetic footwear.
(903) 463‐3985
1624 N. Travis Sherman, Texas 75092 (903) 892-9291
800 W. Main Denison, Texas 75020 (903) 463-3985
www.medicineshoppe.com ©2006 Medicine Shoppe International, Inc., a Cardinal Health Company. All rights reserved. 814a15
Texoma Area SENIOR • Spring 2010
41
Changes to Extra Help
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eginning January 1, 2010 changes to the Medicare law made it easier for some people to qualify for “Extra Help” within the costs of their Medicare prescription drug plan. Under the Medicare Improvements for Patients and Providers Act (MIPPA) Medicare no longer counts or classifies any life insurance policies as resources. Medicare also no longer considers as income the help received regularly from someone else to pay household expenses such as food, mortgage, rent, heating fuel or gas, electricity, water, and property taxes. You might be asking yourself, “Will this change the basic resource and in-
come for Extra Help?” The answer is no, but it will change what is counted in these limits. To qualify for “Extra Help” during 2010, your resources still are limited to $12,510 for an individual, or $25,010 for a married couple living together. Annual income is still limited to $16,245 for an individual, or $21,855 for a married couple living together. Income can be a little higher if you support other family members who live with you, or you have earnings from work. If you think you might be close to the limits please do not hesitate to apply for the “Extra Help”. If you
By: Mark Johnson R CPht, Axtell Rite-Value Pharmacy know someone who might be eligible for “Extra Help”, encourage them to either apply or go to the local Area Agency on Aging for assistance. If you need to apply for “Extra Help” you can call 1-800-772-1213 and apply over the phone, request a paper application, or apply online at the Social Security web site www.ssa.gov. You can also apply at your local Social Security office. And be sure to mark your calendars now for the next open enrollment period which will be November 15—December 31 2010. If you need help you can always call me at Axtell Rite-Value 903-564-3216 or e-mail me at axtellritevaluepharmacy@suddenlink.net “Be Well and Well Informed.”
Axtell Rite-Value Pharmacy We’re here for you, even after hours
Guaranteed Lowest Price on Prescription Meds Respiratory Medication & Diabetic Shoes Billed to Medicare 24 Hour Emergency Service - 903-436-0600 Free delivery Specializing in MEDICARE PART D
Tom Axtell Jr R.Ph - Owner
304 1/2 Charlie Dr 42
Texoma Area SENIOR • Spring 2010
axtellritevaluepharmacy@suddenlink.net Whitesboro, Texas 76273
903-564-3216
Physicians
Bluetooth® Hearing Aids
By: Dr Amin Musani, Au.D luetooth® is a short-range radio technology for Internet and mobile devices that is aimed at simplifying communications among them. Bluetooth® is now available in hearing aids through the use of a Bluetooth® adapter which allows the aids to communicate, wirelessly and both at the same time, to a Bluetooth® device such as an iPhone®, an iPod®, an MP3® player, a Bluetooth® compatible TV, stereo, computer or any other Bluetooth® device.
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What does this mean for the hearing aid user? • Listening is balanced across both ears. Intelligent communication occurs between the hearing instruments as both adapt in synchrony to the environment around you. • Convenient, hands-free use with automatic connection to cellular phones
and other Bluetooth® enabled devices. Better listening with fewer distractions. • Direct delivery of sound to both ears offers stereo sound and better, more natural hearing of the sounds and people important to you. • Phone use customized to your preferences. Both hearing instruments adjust when you answer the telephone. The speaker’s voice is heard in both hearing aids at the same time. • Fully balanced hearing as volume and program adjustments in one ear are synchronized with your other ear. • Personalizes phone use with pre-configured telephone program changes that are automatically triggered. Sophisticated, discreet control. Convenient and easy to use. Hands-free operation. Listen to your favorite music delivered to your hearing instruments in rich stereo sound with a Bluetooth® enabled MP3®
™
player. Convenient solution for clearer cell phone use. FM signals are sent directto-ear, comfortably and more clearly. Hearing aids can give a new and better perspective on life to those who have been suffering from hearing problems.
“Bluetooth® is now available in hearing aids through the use of a Bluetooth® adapter” With the advanced technology available today, hearing aids can significantly enhance the quality of life for most people with hearing loss. To learn more, call Dr. Musani today at the Hearing Clinic. 903-463-9900
Enhancing the Quality of Life Through Advanced Technology... Audiology on the Cutting Edge ©
• Texoma’s First & Only Audiologist to receive the Award for Continuing Education (ACE) five times • The First to bring digital and “open ear” hearing devices to the Texoma area • The Only hearing professional in Texoma to use Independent Visible Speech Mapping to precisely fit hearing devices • Certified by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) • Digital, Programmable & Conventional Hearing Aids - All Styles & Sizes “We Listen So You Can Hear!” © Free Batteries for Life (some restrictions apply).
Dr. Amin Musani, Au.D., CCC-A Texoma’s First & Most Experienced Doctor of Audiology 119 West Main Educating Texomans for over a decade. Call or visit our website to get your Free Guide To Better Hearing.
•
Denison
(903) 463-9900 www.TheHearingClinic.org
Texoma Area SENIOR • Spring 2010
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Michael G. Isaac, M.D., F.A.C.C. Interventional Cardiologist Board Certified in Cardiovascular Disease Winston S. Marshall, M.D., F.A.C.C. Interventional Cardiologist Board Certified in Cardiovascular Disease Scott C. Turner, D.O., F.A.C.C. Interventional Cardiologist Board Certified in Cardiovascular Disease Carmel L. Holmes, P.A. -C. Board Certified Physician Assistant
Monday - Friday 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Friday 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Physicians
Sudden Cardiac Arrest
Y
Saving Lives
By: Dr Scott Turner, Sherman Cardiovascular Care Associates ou probably don’t know it, organized way. No blood gets pumped. but sudden cardiac arrest is There are no specific symptoms before a big problem in the Unit- sudden cardiac arrest. Even though a pered States today. Sudden son may feel healthy, he or she may still be cardiac arrest, sometimes at risk. Sudden cardiac arrest can happen referred to as SCA, is a leading cause of to people anywhere and at anytime. You death in the US. In fact, about 335,000 could be out for a walk, in the shower, or people die each year of sudden cardiac at your desk at work. Sudden cardiac ararrest according to the American Heart rest strikes without warning. Association and affects men and women Sudden cardiac arrest victims always equally. To put that number in perspec- lose consciousness and dies within tive, more people die from sudden car- minutes unless treated effectively diac arrest in the US than breast cancer, within minutes. stroke and HIV/AIDS combined. About 95% of people who experience Yet while SCA may not be well sudden cardiac arrest die simply because known, it is highly preventable. The time is of the essence. A person must have key to keeping more people alive is to the heart rhythm reset with a defibrillator identify people at risk of sudden cardi- within six minutes to survive. So, if you are ac arrest and preventing an event from ever in a situation where you think a perever happening. Sudden cardiac arrest is son has experienced sudden cardiac arrest, often confused with a heart attack, but call 911 immediately. Many of the deaths they are different. Sudden cardiac arrest from sudden cardiac arrest can be preis caused by a heart rhythm problem. vented. Because of new medical research, A heart attack is caused by a circulation we can identify who may be at higher risk problem in the heart. It occurs when one for sudden cardiac arrest and can do someor more of the arteries delivering blood thing to protect those individuals. to the heart are blocked. Oxygen in the blood cannot reach the heart muscle, and Known risk factors for Sudden Cardiac the heart muscle is damaged. A heart atArrest include: tack refers to the death of heart muscle • Prior heart attack, bypass surgery or tissue from the loss of blood supply. It angioplasty/stent implant may help if you think of a heart attack • Low ejection fraction (EF) at or below as a “plumbing problem” in the heart. A 35%. EF is a key indicator of heart health heart attack is often preceded by symp- and is frequently used to determine the toms such as pain in the chest, arm, up- pumping function of the heart. It is the per abdomen, or jaw. Nausea and sweat- amount of blood pumped out of the ing are common. Heart attack patients heart during each beat or contraction. usually remain conscious. • Prior sudden cardiac arrest Sudden cardiac arrest is caused by a • Blood relative who has had a sudden heart rhythm problem. You can think of cardiac arrest it as an electrical problem in the heart. • Previous heart failure Sudden cardiac arrest happens if your So, what can you do to make sure heart suddenly starts beating very fast and that you or someone you love is protectquivers instead of beating in a regular and ed from having a sudden cardiac arrest?
If you think you or someone you care for has one or more of the risk factors, PLEASE talk to your doctor about sudden cardiac arrest as soon as possible. If you are unsure know how to start this discussion with your doctor, please use the list of known risk factors provided above to get the ball rolling. Remember, having a sudden cardiac arrest doesn’t need to result in someone dying. There are treatment options, including implantable cardioverter defibrillators, that can save your life or the life of someone you care about. Author Dr Scott Turner is certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine-Internal Cardiovascular Disease and a Sherman Cardiovascular Care Associate. For more information on Sherman Cardiovascular Care Associates, please call us at 903-891-2142
A person experiencing sudden cardiac arrest (in contrast to a heart attack): •S uddenly loses consciousness
and does not respond to gentle shaking or to sounds and voices.
• Does not move •D oes not breathe or take a
normal breath for several seconds, or cough
•D oes not have a pulse
Sudden cardiac arrest victims always lose consciousness and dies within minutes unless treated effectively within minutes.
Texoma Area SENIOR • Spring 2010
45
Damien M. Dauphinee DPM, FACFAS, CWS* +
Jason Hancock DPM, AAPWCA, AACFAS
Nicole Hancock DPM, AAPWCA, AACFAS**
Reconstructive Foot & Ankle Surgery Neurosensory Testing Sports Medicine Biomechanics Childhood Foot Problems Wound Care for Chronic Foot & Ankle Wounds Primary Podiatric Care Peripheral Nerve Injuries
1.866.490.FOOT (3668)
www.completefootandanklecare.com
Come see our New Office in Unicorn Lakes 3319 Unicorn Lakes Blvd., Suite 111, Denton TX 76210 Most Insurance Plans & Medicare Accepted *Board Certified by the American Board of Podiatric Surgery + Board Certified Wound Management **Physician Certified in Wound Care
Physicians
Taking Care of your Feet and Ankles
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North Texas foot and ankle surgeon advises athletes: Don’t play with foot pain and that athletes and par ents should monitor seemingly ‘normal’ foot and ankle pain. As the Fall/Winter sports season reached its conclusion, many adult, adolescent, and child athletes were playing with seemingly normal but persistent foot pain that could be a sign of a more serious injury, according to Damien M Dauphinée, podiatric foot and ankle surgeon and a member of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons (ACFAS). “Playing with pain often is viewed as a badge of honor among athletes, but they must be aware that the persistent pain they dismiss as normal exercise-related stress could be something far more serious,” said Dr Dauphinée who advises athletes of all ages to consult with visit their podiatric surgeon regarding any foot pain. The pain may be due to overuse injuries from repetitive loading of the foot and ankle during running and aerobics. “When athletes overdo their workouts, it may be normal to experience some temporary discomfort,” says Dr Dauphinée. “But if pain continues longer than a few days with continued redness, warmth or swelling, the athlete should see a podiatric foot and ankle surgeon for proper diagnosis and advice on treatment options.” Athletes who ignore persistent foot pain and inflammation, and continue to train, risk potential complications that could sideline them for months. Among possible injuries associated with persistent foot and ankle pain are stress fractures, muscle strains, tendinitis and subtle fractures after inversion ankle sprains. “Stress fractures sometimes aren’t debilitating and some athletes might continue their normal training despite the injury,” according
Article courtesy of Complete Foot and Ankle Care of North Texas to Dr Dauphinée. “But continual rigorous ries than those who run on cushioned activity can worsen the problem. An exam- tracks or natural grass fields. ination and diagnosis by a foot and ankle Footwear should be appropriate for the specialist can determine whether the pain sport and match the biomechanics of the is from overuse or subtle trauma, requiring individual’s foot. For example, those who only a few days of rest, or something that engage in one sport more than three times may require surgical intervention.” a week should wear athletic shoes designed Heel pain in children often is caused for the sport, and shoe technology has adby injuries to the growth plate and sec- vanced to allow for variances in foot charondary growth centers in which tendons acteristics that require stability or cushionpull at the top and bottom of the growth ing or even a combination of the two. plate of the heel. Boys and girls, ages 8 Injuries often result when athletes fail to to 14, are susceptible to this problem, train to build up to a desired goal. Accord-
and its major symptom is pain on either side of the heel. Dr Dauphinee explains that “Growth-plate trauma is common in soccer and other sports that involve a lot of running. Parents should make sure that their children stretch before playing and apply ice to the back of the heel after the game or practice. In some cases, anti-inflammatory drugs and shoe inserts (orthotics) or lifts are recommended, but the potential for recurrent injury exists until the growth plate closes.” Foot and ankle surgeons provide many forms of treatment to keep children pain free and participating in athletic activities. When treating athletes of any age, several factors will be evaluated that could be the underlying cause of foot pain. Included is consideration of the running or playing surfaces because athletes who train on asphalt or cement are more prone to stress inju-
ingly, a runner shouldn’t set a goal of 20 miles a week without gradually progressing to that goal. In children, overuse injuries sometimes occur from excessive parental pressure to achieve in sports making behavioral factors a consideration. And nutrition is important for stress fractures can occur in athletes with poor nutritional habits. Sleeping problems and resultant irritability and fatigue are common among some athletes who exercise aggressively, or over-train. And there are physical characteristics such as variations in bone structure and muscle development evidenced in individuals who are bowlegged or have mal-alignment problems. More information on foot conditions affecting athletes and children can be found at www.completefootandanklecare. com or call us to schedule an appointment at 1-866-490-3668. Texoma Area SENIOR • Spring 2010
47
No person knows when the “big one” will hit and heart care will be needed. With increasing numbers of Americans dying from heart disease each year, 54 percent of deaths in the US are heart related, you need to know what shape your heart is in, so you aren’t caught by the “big one.” It’s never too early to improve your heart health. But, there is so much to know, so how do you sort through all the hype and focus on the facts? Read on for some help sorting through the heart hype. Begin by knowing your risk of heart disease. Items like your age, gender and
family history you’re born with and they play important roles in determining your chances of heart disease, heart attack and other cardiovascular problems. Typically, men are at a higher risk for heart disease, but women are seeing their numbers of heart disease on the rise as well. Those 65 and older make up 82 percent of heart disease related deaths, so as you age your risk increases. And, of course, knowing your family’s own heart history will help you and your doctor know what to look for as you age. There are some risk factors we can control though. Some steps you can start now to have a quick impact on your overall health. Eating a low-fat diet rich in fruit and vegetables is just the first step. By lowering the amount of animal fat you eat, you can
see a dramatic difference in cholesterol and blood pressure. Add in exercise and maintaining a healthy weight and you’ll be on the road to good health. Knowing your numbers is the next step is making better decisions for your health. So, what numbers should you know? As always, talk with your doctor to get a one-on-one evaluation and information, but here are some general facts to keep in mind. Blood pressure, often called the “silent killer,” is one important number to know. Typically, you should maintain a blood pressure less than 120 over 80. Blood pressure is referred to as a silent killer because people often don’t know their pressure is high and symptoms aren’t immediately recognizable. When blood pressure is high it begins to damage your vessels, kidneys and heart.
Britt D. Morris, DO, FACOS Board Certified Vascualr Surgeon Vascular Associates of Southern Oklahoma 731 12th Street NW, Suite 300 Ardmore, Oklahoma 73401
580.223.3216
Cholesterol numbers can be confusing, but knowing them can be life-saving. Typically, your total cholesterol should be less than 200. Cholesterol and triglyceride testing measures the fatty substances found in your blood. Your triglycerides should be less than 150. There are two other cholesterol numbers to watch. The low-density lipoprotein, or LDL, is sometimes called “bad cholesterol” because it carries fat out into the blood vessels. LDL should be kept under 130. The other is high-density lipoprotein, or HDL, often called the “good cholesterol” because it grabs fat from the blood and removes it. HDL numbers should be over 50 for women and 40 for men.
Blood sugar levels may not be an obvious number to watch, but your glucose plays an important part in your heart health. Over time, high glucose damages blood vessels. Glucose is often measured through a fasting blood test and those numbers should be between 80 and 120. Other numbers to monitor include the number of cigarettes you smoke daily, which should be zero, and your body mass index number, or BMI. The BMI measures your weight in relation to your height and gives a good indicator of health. Experts agree that your BMI should be less than 25. Efforts to control risk factors and watch numbers will have a huge impact on your
heart health, but sometimes heart attacks strike even healthy people. That’s why knowing the signs will help you get care before it’s too late. Heart attack symptoms include chest pain or discomfort, pain down the shoulder and arm, shortness of breath, weakness and fatigue. There are additional signs for women when a heart attack strikes. Discomfort may not be isolated to just the chest, but may be in the neck, shoulder, upper back or abdomen. There may even be pain in the jaw. Heart attacks in women may also cause nausea or vomiting, sweating or dizziness. Heart attacks don’t have to be deadly. Quick treatment can restore blood flow to the heart and save your life. Have someone take you to the nearest emergency room when symptoms strike. Mercy Memorial’s Heart & Vascular Services are ready to help your heart. With more than 3,000 southern Oklahoma hearts cared for in the last year, they are a team you can trust.
Texoma Area SENIOR • Spring 2010
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EYE ASSOCIATES
Dr. Bossen
Dr. Burlingame
Dr. Plauché
Robert Burlingame, M.D., owner of RGB Eye Associates in Sherman, has been named Best Ophthalmologist in the Best of Texomaland for 2009. He and his associates -- William B. Plauché, M.D. and Andrew D. Bossen, M.D. -- have been serving the north Texas and southern Oklahoma community since 1987 with a philosophy of “the patient always comes first.” Additionally, the North Travis Ambulatory Surgery Center has been owned and operated by Dr. Burlingame since 1996, and is the only facility in the region dedicated exclusively to eye surgery.
It is clear that his unparalleled success is a direct result of his passionate philosophy of quality patient care. Both doctors have brought additional skills and technologies to the practice including SLT glaucoma laser procedures, Avastin injections for wet macular degeneration, retinal vein occlusion and diabetic retinopathy. These additions have greatly benefitted Dr. Burlingame’s practice and patients by reducing the referral visits to Dallas; previously the only location in North Texas where these treatments were available.
The RGB Eye Associates team is dedicated to providing the best medical and surgical treatment available in a friendly and professional manner. Their office is equipped with state-of-the-art technology used in the diagnosis, evaluation and treatment of eye disease with techniques and equipment such as optical coherence tomography, IOL master, orbscan, digital retinal photography and fluorescein angiography.
Dr. Burlingame and his wife, Lisa, have two adult children, Drew and Rachel, and a daughter-in-law, Sarah. All attend Wheaton College in Wheaton, Illinois. Dr. and Mrs. Burlingame reside in Sherman and actively pursue their interests which include hunting, fishing and gardening.
Dr. Burlingame’s expertise and experience is nationally recognized. He was one of the first peer trainers certified to teach other physicians the technique of laser refractive surgery. A graduate of the University of Texas Health Science Center, he is board certified in ophthalmology and is a Fellow in the American College of Surgeons. Dr. Plauché and Dr. Bossen mirror the same philosophies practiced by Dr. Burlingame in their clinical and surgical operations. He challenges them and the staff to constantly improve the ophthalmologic process to provide optimum clinical results.
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RGB Eye Associates 1303 N. Travis St., Sherman, TX 75092 Texoma Area SENIOR • Spring 2010 903.892.3282
Dr. Plauche’ and his wife Cheryl have two children, Avalon and Hunter. Plauche’ lives in Sherman, Texas where he enjoys spending time with his family, gardening, hunting and many other outdoor activities. Dr. Bossen and his wife Jennifer have one son, Drew. Bossen lives in Sherman, Texas where he enjoys the outdoors; playing golf, cycling, and gardening. Dr. Bossen is also an accomplished pianist. RGB Eye Associates and the North Travis Ambulatory Surgery Center are conveniently located at 1303 & 1325 N. Travis and the phone numbers are 903.892.3282 & 903.870.1033.
North Travis Ambulatory Surgery Center 1325 N. Travis St., Sherman, TX 75092 903.870.1033
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Advancements in Glaucoma Treatments
Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty “This glaucoma treatment is a type of laser surgery that is quickly becoming the preferred treatment for glaucoma nationwide.”
Article courtesy of RGB Eye Associates laucoma is an eye disease necessary. Initially used as a treatment caused by the failure of the eye option for glaucoma patients who failed to properly drain eye fluids, to successfully control their glaucoma causing a gradual narrowing of the field with eye drops, SLT has become the firstof vision until patients feel like they have choice treatment of glaucoma for many only a narrow tunnel of sight remaining. ophthalmologists and patients. This eye disease is very serious and, left untreated, often results in blindness. How It Works Glaucoma generally takes one of SLT selectively targets certain cells in the two forms: open-angle or chronic meshwork (called the trabecular meshglaucoma and closed-angle or acute work) that drains eye fluids, which is how glaucoma. Open-angle glaucoma, the fluid pressure in the eye is regulated, and most common form of glaucoma, af- uses laser beams to “unclog” the drains. fects about three million Americans. By treating this drainage area with a The doctors of RGB Eye Associates are combination of low frequency lasers, eye very excited to share with their patients a fluid drainage is increased without burnnew and very effective technology for ing any surrounding tissues, which was a treating open angle glaucoma, called SLT risk with older laser technologies. SLT is or Selective Laser Trabeculoplasty. This usually performed in the office and takes glaucoma treatment is a type of laser sur- about a minute or two, though one hour gery that is quickly becoming the preferred should be set aside from start to finish. treatment for glaucoma nationwide. SLT produces great results, which is Until recently, northeast Texas and why RGB’s eye doctors are so happy to southeast Oklahoma residents had to be able to offer the procedure to glaugo to Dallas or other large cities for coma sufferers in Sherman, Ada, Ardthese kinds of cutting-edge eye treat- more, and other residents of northeast ments. But now SLT is available at Texas and southeast Oklahoma withRGB Eye Associates in its Sherman, out patients having to travel outside Texas ophthalmology office that is the Texoma region. conveniently located and easily accessible to Texoma residents. The many benefits of SLT eye treatment include: SLT Technology • Immediate improved drainage of Before SLT’s advanced laser technique eye fluids, thus reducing intraocular was developed, treatment for open-angle pressure (IOP). glaucoma included treating eye tissue by • No burning or scarring of surrounding ALT laser. SLT is both a more gentle way eye tissue. to treat the eye as well as more focused • No need for glaucoma medications and than the prior, older approach. SLT eye drops, which can be costly for padoesn’t damage or scar surrounding tis- tients and may have adverse side effects. sue. Another advantage to SLT laser tech- • SLT can be repeated over time if needed. nology for open-angle glaucoma is that • SLT is an excellent alternative for patreatment can sometimes be repeated if tients whose glaucoma was not success-
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fully managed with eye drops, other medications, or traditional laser surgery. • The procedure is quick and painless. SLT requires no needles, no cutting, and no stitches. From beginning to end, the office visit takes about one hour, with the SLT procedure usually taking between one to two minutes. • The procedure is usually covered by insurance companies and Medicare, but be sure to check with your own carrier. • It is safe for those with diabetes, high blood pressure, and/or poor circulation. • One treatment may last for up to five years. SLT uses FDA-approved laser technology to treat glaucoma. Although RGB Eye Associates is committed to making the latest eye procedures and glaucoma treatments available to residents of the Sherman, Ardmore, Ada area and to glaucoma sufferers throughout north Texas and southern Okalahoma, patient safety remains our first priority. Thousands of SLT procedures have been safely and successfully performed in America with great results, and this technology has been available in Europe for many years. RGB is very pleased to be able to offer SLT glaucoma treatment at our Sherman Texas office with the utmost confidence in one of the most exciting advancements in glaucoma treatment to come along in quite a while. This advanced laser treatment is a safe and nearly miraculous way of preventing blindness caused by glaucoma. For more information on Glaucoma and SLT technology, give RGB Eye Associates a call today at 903-892-3282. Texoma Area SENIOR • Spring 2010
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North Texas Family Medicine NEW SErvicES: Botox Restylane Microderm
Lisa Houk, FNP, BC Family Nurse Practitioner & Owner Robert Helsten, M.D. Medical Director
SErvicES: Immunizations Microderm Abrasion Blood Pressure Managment High Cholesterol Management Family Care for all ages Lab & X-ray Service on Site Diabetes Management Drug screening with immediate results School & Sports Physicals Occupational Health Chiropractic Care Weight Managment Minor Emergency Medicine D.O.T. Physicals NaturalHormone Replacement Therapy Mole & Lesion Removal Cardiopulmonary Stress Testing Mobile Bone Measure Density Exams Mobile Mamogram - on site Bladder Flow Point Bladder Ultrasound
Jay Houk Office Manager Karen Steed, ENF-C Family Nurse Practitioner Andy Anderson, PA-C Physician Assistant
(940) 686-0860 1340 Highway 377 Suite 110 Pilot Point, TX 76258 Monday - Friday 7:30 A.M. - 5:00 P.M. Saturdays 9:00 A.M. - 12:00 P.M. Wednesdays Closed 12:00 P.M. - 1:30 P.M.
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Thyroid Control
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By: Lisa Houk, FNP, BC, North Texas Family Medicine hyroid control, if done diet, proper hormonal balance, and thoroughly, can be one Ashwaganda (Indian Ginseng). of the most challenging Let’s focus on nutrition and how it medical decisions that a affects thyroid. Lack of Selenium, Chrodoctor or nurse practi- mium, Zinc, Iron, Iodine, Copper, Vitationer faces. The Association of Clinical min A, D, E, B2, B6, and B12 discourEndocrinology and the Endocrinology ages thyroid function. Did you know Society have not come to an agreement that artificial sweetners cause Chromion the standard of care for optimal thy- um wasting? Did you know that there roid function. Thus, many patients have are approximately six packets of artifibeen told that their thyroid is “fine”; but cial sweetners in one Diet Coke? Also, truthfully what is “fine”? if you take your multivitamin with a fiOne knowledgeable pharmacist, Joe ber supplement or the new Alli product, Paoletti, nicknames a lazy untreated your fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K thyroid as a “functional hypothyroid- will not be absorbed well? ism”. He suggests that this is caused by an imbalance of T3 and T4, excess T4 What about medicines that negatively therapy, or increased thyroid binding influence thyroid function? globulin. Was your TSH (thyroid stimu- Beta Blockers, Birth Control Pills, Iolating hormone) simply checked or was dinated Contrast Agents, SSRIs (Paxil, an extensive thyroid panel drawn? Prozac, Zoloft), Estrogen, GlucocorOptimal thyroid function should be ticoids, Opiates, Chemotherapy, and the goal instead of settling for “normal” Lithium are just a few. Ferrous sulfate, thyroid function. Illnesses, such as high aluminum hydroxide-containing antblood pressure, high cholesterol, fatigue, acids, lactose, and calcium carbonate, low sex drive, and obesity are influenced also, alter thyroid absorption. How by a poorly functioning thyroid. Why many of us are on any one of these at address multiple diseases and ignore the one time or another? underlying potential cause? So what can we do to support our Did you know that modern American thyroid besides reevaluate what way of life contributes to goes in our mouth? hypothyroid function? Some suggestions would be to take SeleStress, environmental toxins, diet, nium 200-800 mcg daily (or eat fish two medicines, and much more all play a to three times per week); do a Gluten role. Other factors that prevent thy- free diet for at least 60 days; remove asroid from optimally functioning in- partame, trans fats, and processed whole clude natural aging, alcohol, cigarette foods from our diet; correct any horsmoking, diabetes, excess soy, surgery, mone imbalances; and restore proper and radiation. Conversely, factors that gut function. Furthermore, kick start positively support thyroid function in- your thyroid with iodine, Vitamin B6, clude Melatonin (sleep), High Protein L-tyrosine, zinc, and magnesium.
If your provider chooses to supplement with commercial thyroid, requests brand name only. Studies have shown absorption varies from 48 to 80% from generic to brand name. Absorption is increased by fasting and decreased by low stomach acid. It is best taken on an empty stomach, separate from food, medicines, herbals, and vitamins. Also, seasons change and no “one size fits all.” Do not wait too long to recheck the function of your thyroid. If you have gained weight, been diagnosed with a new condition, had a change in medicines, had a baby, or had ongoing major stressors for a season of time, then consider rechecking your thyroid. In conclusion, Henry Harrower, MD from “Endocrine Fundamentals” states, “A good laboratory report is cold comfort to a patient whose symptoms remain unchanged, and the doctor can repeat such reports until he is blue in the face, but they will not help his patient much if unaccompanied by controlled symptoms. The successful physician is the one who knows best how to make his patients feel better.” This is our goal at North Texas Family Medicine. Call today for an appointment, 940 686 0860. Texoma Area SENIOR • Spring 2010
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Physicians
The Road to a Satisfying Sex Life
E
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,
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. Texoma Area SENIOR • Spring 2010
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What is Cholesterol?
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Article courtesy of Donna S Barsky, R.Ph, D.Ph his short guide can help you manage a discussion with your doctor about your vascular health. This is an important issue that can affect your health. What is cholesterol? Cholesterol is a fatty, wax-like substance found in the cells of your body and blood. It comes from your diet and is also produced by the body. Total cholesterol in the blood includes various components including HDL, LDL, and triglycerides. Cholesterol has an important role in the overall healthy functioning of the body. The body needs the right level of cholesterol to function properly, but too high levels of cholesterol increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. Hypercholesterolemia is the medi56
Texoma Area SENIOR • Spring 2010
cal term for high cholesterol. High cholesterol is a significant risk factor for coronary heart disease, peripheral arterial disease (PAD), and stroke. High-density lipoprotein (HDL) is known as the “good” cholesterol because it is believed to have protective properties against heart attack. Some medical experts believe there are two major roles of HDL. One, it carries cholesterol away from the blood vessels and back to the liver so the liver can eliminate it from the body. Two, HDL removes the excess buildup of cholesterol from arterial plaque. If you have a low HDL on your blood test (<40 mg/dl), you will not have the benefit of HDL’s cardiac-protective properties. Exercise, weight loss and addition of nicotinic acid derivatives can help to increase these levels
Atherosclerotic or artery plaques are mostly made up of cholesterol and calcium. These plaques deposit on the inside wall of the artery. The buildup of plaque can reduce blood flow and eventually a complete blockage can occur, either from the plaque itself or due to rupture of the plaque, with collection of a blood clot on top of the plaque. Depending on the blood vessels involved, this process can cause a stroke, heart attack, or PAD. If PAD occurs during this process, it can result in decreased function or loss of function in other organs of the body, or an arm or leg. Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) is known as the “bad” cholesterol because it plays a role in the development of atherosclerotic plaques. Think of LDL as butter floating in
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the bloodstream. High LDL levels are the main target of cholesterol-lowering therapies and lifestyle changes. If you have a high LDL on your blood test (>100 mg/dl), it will increase your risk for coronary heart disease, vascular disease, and stroke. Current guidelines recommend lowering LDL more aggressively in patients with more risk factors or known atherosclerotic plaque. Triglyceride is a form of fat made in the body. There are various factors that can cause high levels of triglyceride, including obesity, diabetes, decreased physical activity, cigarette smoking, and excess consumption of alcohol and trans fat. The importance of routine cholesterol screening is that it can identify high-risk individuals. Early treatment of these individuals can decrease the incidence of coronary heart disease, stroke, and PAD. The US Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) strongly recommends that men aged 35 years and older, and women aged 45 years and older have their cholesterol tested to screen for lipid disorders. According to the USPSTF, there is good evidence that cholesterol testing can find asymptomatic individuals at risk for heart disease, stroke, or vascular disease, and early treatment of these high-risk individuals can prevent and decrease their risk of cardiovascular disease. The USPSTF also recommends that younger adults (men aged 20 to 35 and women aged 20 to 45) have their cholesterol tested to screen for lipid disorders if they have other risk factors for coronary heart disease. These other risk factors include diabetes, a family history of cardiovascular disease before age 50 years in male relatives or age 60 years in female relatives, a family history of familial hyperlipidemia, and multiple
cardiovascular risk factors including obesity, hypertension, and tobacco use. The early treatment of these higher-risk individuals can prevent cardiovascular disease. Currently, the USPSTF has no recommendation for or against routine cholesterol testing in younger adults (men aged 20 to 35 or women aged 20 to 45) in the absence of known risk factors for cardiovascular disease.
“The importance of routine cholesterol screening is that it can identify high-risk individuals. Early treatment of these individuals can decrease the incidence of coronary heart disease, stroke, and PAD.”
Gemfibrozil), and statins (Lopressor, Zocor, etc). New research data suggests that statin therapy may lead to regression in atherosclerotic plaque, and more studies are being conducted to confirm this finding. All statins should always be taken at bedtime because that is when most cholesterol is produced by our systems. In most people, a combination of many therapies can give great results and decrease risk substantially. If you have any concerns or questions about your risks, be sure to ask your doctor or call your local pharmacists.
“High-density The USPSTF found good evidence that cholesterol testing in low-risk young adults can detect some individuals at increased long-term risk of cardiovascular disease, but the absolute reduction in risk as a result of early treatment in most individuals is small before middle age. Treatment options include both lifestyle changes and drug therapy. Lifestyle changes include dietary counseling to understand the benefits of a diet low in saturated fat and high in fruits and vegetables, regular exercise, stopping tobacco use, and maintaining a healthy weight. Drug therapy can be more effective than any other treatment option alone and these include nicotinic acid derivatives (niacin, Niaspan), bile acid sequestrants (Cholestid, Questran), cholesterol absorption inhibitors (Zetia), Omega-3 esters (Lovaza, Omega-3 Oils), fibrates (ie, fenofibrate,
lipoprotein (HDL) is known as the “good” cholesterol because it is believed to have protective properties against heart attack.”
Texoma Area SENIOR • Spring 2010
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New VIVITE' Advanced Skin Care Routine Developed by Allergan Now Available
Now Accepting New Patients Specializing in Weight Loss, Mesotherapy, Botox & Restylane
Dr. Robert J. Hernandez Primary Care/Internal Medicine
Diplomate of the American College of Physicians
ROBERT J. HERNANDEZ, MD
(903) 868-0808
2108 Post Oak Crossing, Sherman TX 75092 www.primarymedicineofnorthtexas.com Saturday and Evening Consultations by Appointment Se hablá Español
TM
Retirement LIVING
Everyone Has Choices
Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation Care
By: Genie Plumlee, Mullican Care Center o one ever wants to have rest must be paid by private insurance, to make a decision to place Medicaid or private pay. A patient is a loved one in a facility for eligible for up to a maximum of 100 skilled nursing or rehabilitation. If days skilled nursing or rehab care in a that time comes however, everyone skilled nursing facility. One hundred deserves to get the information need- days is the maximum allowed under ed to make an informed decision. Medicare (per qualifying period) and Families and patients should be aware is available only if the patient requires of, and be given the choice of, where skilled nursing or rehabilitation. to go to receive skilled nursing care Medicaid can cover part of the cost or rehabilitation upon discharge from of nursing home care if the patient is the hospital. eligible for Medicaid. A Medicaid apFollowing a three night hospital plication must be turned in and if apstay, Medicare will pay 100% for up to proved, Medicaid will help pay for the 20 days skilled nursing or rehabilita- cost of the nursing home/skilled nurstion care. After the first 20 days, Medi- ing care. A patient must remain in the care will only pay a portion and the skilled nursing/rehabilitation facility
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Mullican Skilled nursing
Care Center
Physical, occupational and speech therapy
for a minimum of 30 days in order to become eligible for Medicaid. An admission into a skilled nursing/rehabilitation facility can be either short or long term. Many times, patients can return to their own home after a short term stay in a facility where they receive extensive therapy or skilled nursing care. This extensive therapy or skilled nursing care can better prepare them to return to the home environment later rather than immediately following a hospital stay. Author Genie Plumlee is the Administrator at Mullican Care Center and may be reached at 903-965-0200
105 North Main Savoy, Texas 75479
903.965.0200
www.seniorcarecentersltc.com
Alzheimer and dementia-related illness care
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Social services, Case management Palliative care/Pain management Certified Alzheimerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Unit Private Rooms Available
Making a Difference...One Family At a Time. Texoma Area SENIOR â&#x20AC;˘ Spring 2010
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Where Exceptional Living Meets Comprehensive Professional Care Two Locations Offering Skilled Nursing Care and Rehabilitation Plus Unique Programs, including: LifeWorks Senior Wellness & Dining Your Way Meal Service Skilled Nursing Services
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Retirement LIVING
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Article courtesy of Michelle Shaffer, Good Samaritan Society hen facing recovery tools, adaptive equipment and cognitive of various degrees re-enforcement or thinking process tasks and circumstance to remediate a multitude of impairments. the lingo can seem The patient’s safety and well-being are indecipherable. always the most important factor in any There are acronyms for every style of ther- therapy program. apy. Terminology and jargon are used for Each of the therapy programs comes speed and efficiency among therapists, doc- with its own language. A complete glossary tors, nurses and caregivers. However, the of terms can be found by searching the inmore you know the better prepared you are ternet searching or in medical textbooks. to aide in your recovery process because understanding lends itself to motivation. Occupational therapy deals Knowing who you are seeing, an Occu- primarily with daily living skills and pational Therapist (OT), or Physical Therathese are some common terms. pist (PT), or Speech Pathologist (SLP) may • Adaptive Response is any action that help you set about the tasks necessary for is appropriate and successful in meeting a more efficient recovery. You should think some environmental demand. of these specialized healthcare workers as • Bilateral Coordination refers to the personal training experts. Each knows how use of both sides of the body together to optimize the use of equipment, adap- in a coordinated fashion, indicating tive skills and devices, dexterity and muscle smooth communication between both work to return you to your prior level of cerebral hemispheres. ability or, in some cases, better ability. • Dyspraxia is deficient motor planWhile some overlap of the various ther- ning that is often related to a decrease apy disciplines occurs here are some of the in sensory processing. distinctive features of each. Occupational • Proprioception refers to the perceived therapy is focused on daily living func- sensation from muscles and joints telltionality. It is concerned with dexterity, ing the brain when and how muscles flexibility, stamina and cognitive ability are contracting, stretching, being necessary for a person to dress, feed, toilet pulled or compressed. and cloth self. Physical therapy in a senior • Vestibular refers to our sense of movement living environment concentrates on loco- and the pull of gravity, related to our body. motion, posture, large or gross motor skills and fall prevention. Physical therapists are Physical therapists are involved able to help a person maximize balance with rehabilitating your gait, ability and muscle mass through practice, exerand ease of standing and walking. cises and appliances should the ability to Common terms for physical walk become impaired due to any numtherapists include the following. ber of circumstances. Speech pathology • ADLs are activities of daily living. is distinctively involved with the swallow • Iontophoresis utilizes a patch with a function, short term memory, problem cortisone solution that becomes electrisolving/reasoning skills, communication cally charged to drive negative ions from and nutrition. These experienced thera- the solution into the tissues. This creates pists have an arsenal of exercises, training a localized anti-inflammatory effect.
• Myofascial stretching relates to soft tissue mobilization techniques such as utilizing massage types of strokes to promote relaxation and focus stretching on individual muscles or groups of muscles. • Mechanical traction involves the utilization of mechanical apparatus to provide stretching to unload joints; the stretch can be either constant or intermittent. Speech pathology covers not only language skills, but also cognitive processes, nutrition and swallowing. When listening to a speech pathologist it could be beneficial to know these terms. • Aphasia is total or partial loss of the ability to use or understand language. • Apraxia is an inability to execute a voluntary movement despite being able to demonstrate normal muscle function. • CVA refers to the cerebrovascular accident also known as a stroke. • Diadochokinesis is the rapid repetition of several different sounds in a row. • Dysarthria is a group of speech disorders caused by disturbances in the strength or coordination of the muscles of the speech mechanism. • Dysphagia is difficulty swallowing. • Open-set speech recognition refers to understanding speech without visual clues. Texoma Area 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 of- intentions in mind as they provide care fice anxious to move their and services. Most are committed to loved one to our com- providing your loved one the best munity because they are care, however, mistakes do happen. It dissatisfied with the care provided at an- is important for you to be observant other facility. I listen to their list of com- and attentive. If something doesn’t plaints and then ask them how the other make sense or doesn’t “feel right”, ask facility responded when they shared for clarification. You may also need to their concerns with them. Most people verify that everything your loved one quickly respond that they didn’t feel tells you is accurate, too. Sometimes comfortable expressing their concerns medications, poor hearing, fatigue or to the staff, so they decided to move other factors can cause someone to their parent to another facility instead. misunderstand or misremember. Whether your loved one is receiving home health services, visiting a doctor, There’s No Time Like The Present confined to a hospital or recovering in a The care provider will be best able to reskilled nursing facility you can improve solve any questions or concerns if you communication with the care providers express them in a timely and factual to ensure that your family member gets manner. Make note of the date, time the best care. and persons involved. Start Off On The Right Foot Whether moving your mother to an assisted living community, setting up home health care or admitting her into a skilled nursing facility for rehabilitation, the process can feel overwhelming. It’s a good idea to have someone else with you when you meet with the staff, especially during your initial visit. Feel free to take notes and to ask for clarification if you don’t understand something. Be up-front about your expectations, hopes and fears, and you may be surprised about what you learn. Lastly, you will want to verify that the care provider knows the best way to reach you. Trust, But Verify Most care providers have chosen their profession because they care about the 62
Texoma Area SENIOR • Spring 2010
You Attract More Flies With Honey When voicing a complaint it is always wise to use what my son calls a “compliment sandwich”. Start and end with a compliment and your complaint will be better received. You may say something like “How can we work together to find a solution?” or “Help me to understand…” There will be an adjustment period as your loved one and the care providers get to know each other, and open communication make this transition go more smoothly. Help Is Just A Click Away Most communication with care providers is done face to face or over the phone, but e-mail can be a valuable tool as well. With e-mail you can ask a question or share a concern 24 hours
a day. You also have a record of your 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.”
INNOVATION INNOVATION NEVER GETS OLD.
NEVER GETS OLD.
Since 1947, Hilltop Haven has been a proven and trusted name in skilled nursing, Alzheimer’s memory care, and retirement living. We have earned our reputation by not only treating our residents with the dignity and compassion they deserve, but also utilizing the latest technology to ensure effective patient care and rehabilitation. To reinforce the accolades received over the years for our dedicated senior care, Hilltop Haven has also focused on cutting-edge technology. From our Automated Medication Dispensing Maching and low-rise beds, to our equipment and practices for rehabilitation and therapy, we provide the most up-to-date advancements for safe, successful resident care. As part of the Christian Care Centers family of senior living, Hilltop Haven ensures that our “continuum of care” lends a helping hand through every stage of life, allowing you and your loved one to stay together during changing times. We offer three distinct levels of care - retirement living, skilled nursing, and rehabilitation in a tranquil and picturesque setting, complete with a private lake. Hilltop residents have peace of mind knowing they have found a home with dedicated, experienced staff and state-of-the-art senior care innovations.
Call us today at 1-866-992-4111 to schedule a tour of our campus. Call us today at 1-866-992-4111 to schedule a tour of our campus.
www.ChristianCareCenters.org EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY
EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY
Hilltop Haven is a member of Christian Care Centers family of faith-based, not-for-profit senior living communities, currently serving more residents in the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex than any other senior living organization.
www.ChristianCareCenters.org
Hilltop Haven is a member of Christian Care Centers family of faith-based, not-for-profit senior living communities, currently serving more residents in the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex than any other senior living organization.
Whitesboro Health & Rehabilitation Center
“The journey towards home begins here”
“Steps on your journey”
- Short-term rehab stays - Private medicare/insurance rooms - Alzheimer’s Unit - In-house, physical, occupational and speech therapies stays ~ Private medicare/insurance rooms - Wound care, IVShort-term therapy, tube rehab feeding & Alzheimer’s Unit diabetic management In-house, occupational and speech therapies - 24-hour skilled nursing & respitephysical, care Wound care, IV therapy, tube feeding and diabetic management - Social services 24-hour skilled nursing & respite care - Smoking lounge Social services - VA contracted Smoking lounge - Transportation
VA contracted Transportation
Occupational Therapy
Rehab Team
A Senior Care Consultants Facility
1204 Sherman - Whitesboro, Texas 76273 email: jparrish@seniorcarecentersltc.com Resident Returns Home
903.564.7900
Retirement LIVING
Let’s Put Our Hands Together for...
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Hand Hygiene?
By: Johnny Cortez LVN, BS ED., Whitesboro Health and Rehabilitation hat is Hand Hy- between touching the dead and the giene? Simply living, bacteria from the corpses were put, hand hygiene regularly transmitted to the mothers is washing your via the students’ hands. The result was hands. Hand Hy- a death rate five times higher for mothgiene plays a major part in reducing ers who delivered in one clinic of the and eliminating the spread of germs hospital than for mothers who delivand infections from person-to-per- ered at another clinic not attended by son. It also helps reduce the spread the student physicians. In an in- house of illnesses, including colds, flu and experiment, Dr Semmelweis insisted other upper respiratory diseases. that his students wash their hands beThe Center for Disease Control fore treating the mothers. Then deaths (CDC) recommends the following on the maternity ward fell fivefold. steps to obtain and maintain proper Unquestioned today as the most hand hygiene. Wash your hands with important tool in the healthcare worksoap and clean running water for 20 er’s arsenal for preventing infection, seconds. However, if soap and clean hand washing was not readily acceptwater are not available, use an alcohol- ed in Dr Semmelweis’ era. Indeed, his based product to clean your hands. pleas to make hand washing a routine Alcohol-based hand rubs significantly practice throughout the hospital were reduce the number of germs on skin largely met with resistance. Another and are fast acting. 50 years would pass before the imporMedical history books tell the sto- tance of hand washing as a preventive ry of Dr Ignaz Semmelweis, an Aus- measure would be widely accepted by trian-Hungarian physician, who first the medical profession. Sanitation is demonstrated over 150 years ago that now a standard, and thousands of lives hand hygiene can prevent the spread have been saved because of Dr. Semof disease. Hand hygiene as a prac- melweis’ discovery. tice includes performing hand washIn an effort to protect our personal ing, antiseptic hand wash or alcohol- health and the health of those touched based hand rub. by our hands, let’s put our hand toDr Semmelweis worked in a hos- gether for hand hygiene. Through pital in Vienna where pregnant moth- proper hand hygiene we can applaud ers were dying at such an alarming the work completed by Dr Semmelrate that they begged to be sent home. weis and his efforts to save lives. Most of those dying had been treated by student physicians who had worked The author, Johnny Cortez LVN, BS on corpses during an anatomy class ED, is Infection Control and Educabefore beginning their rounds in the tion Coordinator at Whitesboro Health maternity ward. Because the students and Rehabilitation. To learn more call did not wash their hands effectively 903-564-7900.
When washing hands with soap and water: •W et
your hands with clean running water and apply soap
• Use
warm water if it is available
•R ub
hands together to make a lather, and scrub all surfaces
•C ontinue
rubbing hands for 20 seconds. If you need a “timer”, imagine singing the Happy Birthday song twice to yourself
•R inse
hands well under running water.
• Dry
your hands using a paper towel or air dryer
• I f
possible, use the paper towel to turn off the faucet
Remember: If soap and water are not available, use alcohol-based gel to clean hands. When using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer:
Texoma Area SENIOR • Spring 2010
65
Will You Be A Statistic?
Type II Diabetes
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By: Joan Weems, Owner, Victory Home Health and Hospice iabetes is sweeping the so beans as well as fruits and colorful nation as a wild fire. It vegetables are good choices. Choose is estimated that one in low-fat or nonfat milk, and low-fat three will be diagnosed cheese. Other protein choices could with diabetes at some be chicken, pork (the other white point in their lives. How sad is that? meat), lean meats, fish, peas, nuts and The most common cause of diabetes is seeds. When choosing starches, look poor nutrition and being overweight. for whole grain cereals, breads, crackDiabetes may be prevented by eating ers, brown rice, pasta or oatmeal. Keep proper food and exercise. good healthy snacks on hand for those moments when you are starving. What can you do to lower your risk for diabetes? Step Three: Sometimes it is difficult to figure out Strive to become more physically acwhat you can do. The National Dia- tive. If you are not active, start off betes Education Project has identified slowly and choose a physical activity some proven steps to reduce your risk you will enjoy and stick to it most days of developing diabetes by 50%. The of the week. Continue to add more good news is you don’t have to knock time until you reach at least 30 minyourself out to lower your risk. utes of moderate-intensity physical activity five days a week. Build physical Step One: activity into your daily activities. For Set a weight loss goal. Aim to lose 5 - 7% example, park your car in the furthest of your current weight. So, if you weigh space out in the parking lot, take the 200 pounds, you need to lose 10 to 14 stairs instead of the elevator, and take pounds. Keep a log and write down ev- a brisk walk at lunchtime. erything you eat daily and the amount There are many community proof physical activity you were able to do. grams like the YMCA or Wellness Compare each day. Get support from Centers where you can work out for family and friends and perhaps get them free or at very little cost. These ceninvolved too. It’s never too late or too ters afford the opportunity to keep early to develop healthy lifestyles. up your physical activity even when the weather isn’t favorable. You have Step Two: to exercise regularly to help proMake healthy food choices every day. mote better circulation to your body, Fiber and protein are very important lower cholesterol balance and blood 66
Texoma Area SENIOR • Spring 2010
pressure, and of course, to promote healthy weight management. Victory Home Health & Hospice is prepared to help you with any medical problems or healthcare questions you may have. We can help you after a hospital stay, teaching you about your diagnosis, new medications, diabetic help, wound care, therapy to strengthen you and get you back on your feet. Our nursing staff works to ensure you regain your independence as you recover from, or live with an illness or injury. If you have a terminal diagnosis, Victory Hospice team creates an individual plan for you and your family. The Victory team can provide medical, spiritual, physical and emotional support along with pain control. Bereavement care is also a part of our hospice service. We also have Victory Medical Equipment to meet your equipment needs. Victory Medical Equipment sells a variety of medical supplies, walkers, wheelchairs, scooters, beds, mattresses and more. Call our corporate office toll-free at 888-815-7922, and they can point you to a location near you. Author Joan Weems is a RN and the owner and administrator of Victory Home Health & Hospice. Their toll-free number is 888-815-7922.
Victory Experience
Commited to Caring. Dedicated to Teamwork. Steadfast in Integrity. From the first moment of life until its last, there are gifted and caring people at Victory Home Health and Hospice to care for you and your loved ones at all stages of life. Our mission is to provide compassionate quality healthcare by promoting comfort, independence, and dignity.
888.815.7922 | Is Oklahoma Your Total Well Being Our Heart Concern Ada | Ardmore | Atoka | Carnegie | Davis | Durant | Elgin | Kingston | Marlow | Tishomingo 877.868.0230 | Sherman,Texas www.victoryhospice.com
Ron L. Graves, D.D.S. & Patrick L. Wallace, D.D.S.
Specializing in Dental Implants
800.773.1727
In cooperation and through an established team approach, OMS Associates of Southern Oklahoma works closely with your family/restorative dentist developing the ideal treatment plan that meets the individual needs of their patients. Our doctors will surgically place the implant while your dentist creates the replacement teeth. This gentle surgical procedure is performed in the office with general or local anesthesia and sedation. A temporary replacement is then seated following the procedure so that you are never without teeth. Most people return to work the next day. Research has proved that implant-supported replacement teeth last longer than any tooth supported bridge, partials or conventional dentures. Ask your family/restorative dentist about the other numerous benefits associated with dental implants or call our toll free number 800.773.1727. Board Certified American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
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Pauls Valley Office 100Valley Dr. Pauls Valley, OK 73075 800.773.1727