McHarrie LifeTimes Spring 2020

SPRING/SUMMER 2020

A Man of Many Hats: McHarrie Towne resident Dave Feikert

Enjoy the Amazing Health Benefits of Strawberries

It’s Time to Kick the Soda Habit

McHarrie Pointe Celebrates its 10th Anniversary

What is Dysphagia?

From the CEO T

his year more than ever, I would like to take this opportunity to recognize our entire professional team for their outstanding work and dedication to our organization. Our team members play an important role in the safety, health and well-being of every resident we are privileged to serve.

Together, we provide outstanding healthcare programs and services to our senior community.

McHarrie

Independent

McHarrie Place

Health & Rehabilitation Center

M c H a r r i e To w n e

Admissions: 315-638-2521

McHarrie

Are you aware that Syracuse Home is the only program in Independent Living our region recognized as BEST and TOP performing in both short-term and long-term care?

Please join me, along withM ourcCommunity H a r r i e Board P l a cofe Directors in congratulating our entire team for receiving Health & Rehabilitation the Best Nursing Home DesignationCenter of 2019-2020 by U.S. News and World Report. Over 15,000 nursing homes were rated nationwide and Syracuse Home was the ONLY facility McHarrie in our region to receive this rating.

We are so proud of this distinction and will continue our tradition of providing quality services filled with warmth, compassion and loving kindness to our residents and their families.

If you or someone you know finds themselves in need of our care, why not choose the best. Call Syracuse Home today at 315-638-2521.

Founda

McHarrie Pointe Assisted Living Residence

Admissions: 315-638-2525

Life

Foundation

Sage Court

Memory Care @ McHarrie Pointe Admissions: 315-638-2525

M c H a r r i e To w n e Independent Living Admissions: 315-638-1172

To request information about our programs, please

or visit our website at M c H a r r i e P l acall c 315-638-2521 e www.mcharrielife.org.

Mark Murphy, CEO

Health & Rehabilitation is a publication of Center LifeTimes McHarrie Life Senior Community

McHarrie

7740 Meigs Road Baldwinsville, New York 13027 315-638-2521

McHarrie Life

LifeTimes Editor:FKelly o u nO’Neill-Rossi dation Director, Development & Marketing Contributing Writer: Kelly Acome

If you would like to add/remove your mailing address information, please email krossi@mcharrielife.org.

Visit https://health.usnews.com/best-nursing-homes to read this independent review.

McHarrie Life Senior Community is a not-for-profit organization that offers a continuum of healthcare programs and services for older adults including; independent living at McHarrie Towne, assisted living and memory care at McHarrie Pointe, and short-term rehabilitation and skilled nursing care at McHarrie Place. All programs and services are conveniently located at 7740 Meigs Road in Baldwinsville, New York.

Assisted Resid

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Inside this Issue

2 What is Dysphagia?

4 A Man of Many Hats

8 McHarrie Pointe Celebrates Its 10th Anniversary 14 The

Amazing Health Benefits of Strawberries

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10 It’s Time to Kick the Soda Habit

Thank You to Our Volunteers and Sponsors

16 Planned Giving

The content in this magazine is intended for informational and educational purposes only and should not be treated as a substitute for the medical advice of your own doctor or any other healthcare professional. Do not make any changes to your lifestyle, diet, medication or exercise routine without first discussing it with your doctor.

No information in this magazine should be used to diagnose, treat, prevent or cure any disease or condition.

Please consult with the appropriate medical professional for all of your healthcare needs and concerns.

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SPRING/SUMMER 2020

What is Dysph

A DISORDER THAT’S HARD TO SWALL

Each year, according to the Agency for Health Care Policy and Research (AHCPR), over 60,000 Americans die from complications associated with swallowing dysfunctions, most com­monly aspiration pneumonia — caused by food or saliva going down the windpipe and into the lungs.

If you or a loved one is having trouble swallowing, contact your physician today.

Most of us take for granted our ability to eat, chew and swallow our food safely but did you know that 1 in 20 Americans have a swallowing disorder?

Dysphagia is the technical term for swallowing disorders that can affect children and adults of all ages.

There are many causes of Dysphagia including;

Birth abnormalities, i.e. cleft palate Scleroderma Autism Parkinson’s Disease Head, neck or spinal injuries Esophageal infection or irritation Alzheimer’s Disease/dementia Decayed or missing teeth Stroke Multiple Sclerosis Head or neck cancer Guillian-Barre Syndrome Cerebral palsy Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) Dry mouth Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) Other neurological disorders

Common symptoms include; * Coughing during or immediately

following eating or drinking Wet or gurgling sounding voice during * or after eating or drinking * Complaints of pain when swallowing * Absent or weak cough reflex * Extra effort or time needed to chew or swallow Food or liquid leaking from or * remaining in the mouth * Reoccurring pneumonia or chest congestion after eating Weight loss or dehydration * due to decreased food/liquid intake

SPRING/SUMMER 2020

hagia?

LOW

Left untreated, swallowing difficulties may lead to; dehydration, malnutrition, weight loss, choking and aspiration pneumonia.

“Over the years, I’ve seen an increase in various diseases and dementia that have impacted the task of eating and drinking,” says Dawn Williams, CCC-Speech Language Pathologist at Syracuse Home.

To determine the proper treatment for a resident, a bedside swallow evaluation is conducted. It consists of a medical chart review, patient/caregiver interview, an oral motor examination and a cognitive screen and assessment with food and liquids. After the initial assessment, more advanced tests are scheduled as needed.

“One of the best exercises for swallowing is high repetitions of swallowing. This exercise targets all muscles needed for a safe swallow,” says Williams.

The swallowing process uses approximately 50 pairs of muscles and many nerves to complete the three phases of swallowing. Other treatments include; change in diet, feeding through a tube, surgery, medications and neuromuscular electrical stimulation.

The ability to eat and drink safely is very important to residents and their families. “One of the most rewarding parts of my job is helping residents successfully rehabilitate so that they no longer need a feeding tube and can eat and drink orally again.”

Speech Language Pathologist Dawn Williams helps short-term rehabilitation patient Shirley Lewis by using Synchrony—a state-ofthe-art biofeedback technology specifically designed to treat Dysphagia.

For more information about our nationally recognized short-term rehabilitation program, please contact our Admissions Department at 315-638-2521.

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A Man of Many McHarrie Towne resident Dave Feikert shares his personal story about work, life and family…

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Hats

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Did you know that those who work after retirement report better health than those who don’t?

Just ask McHarrie Towne resident Dave Feikert who is still working at the young age of 87. He has successfully owned and operated FD Associates for the past 35 years working as a sales engineer and Manufacturing Representative for Clean Room International located in Grand Rapids, Michigan.

A cleanroom is a specially engineered enclosed space in which airborne particulates, contaminants, and pollutants are kept within strict limits. Cleanrooms are used to ensure an environment free of bacteria, viruses, or other pathogens. Markets that they serve are for the semiconductor, aeronautics, pharmaceutical, healthcare and many others.

“Work keeps me going. I have always loved the work that I do. I assist in the design of the clean room, provide budget prices, work with the client, and coordinate the

installation phase. The rewarding part is when the project is completed and accepted by the customer,” says Dave.

He obtained his Associates Degree in Mechanical Technology from Mohawk Community College and worked for Lamson Corporation in Syracuse as a draftsman until he was drafted into the United States Army in 1954. After his honorable discharge from the military in December of 1955, he returned to his position at Lamson Corporation and settled down to raise his family.

Happily married for 67 years to his high school sweetheart, Helaine; together, they have built a wonderful, fulfilling life in Central New York. They have two children, four grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. “We are fortunate that our children settled here. We enjoy celebrating holidays and birthdays together and partici-

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Healthy Aging Tips for Any Stage of Life:

Eat a healthy, well-balanced diet ● Keep your mind active by engaging in activities that challenge you ● Stay physically active with regular exercise ● Keep regular/annual appointments with your doctors and dentist ● Take all medications as directed by your doctor ● Get adequate amounts of sleep each night ● Don’t overindulge in alcohol consumption ● Stop smoking ● Stay socially connected with family and friends ●

pating in activities including; boating, sporting events and family vacations. Spending time with our family is our #1 activity together as a couple.”

In addition to his work as a sales engineer for Clean Room Technology, Dave also obtained his real estate license at the age of 71 and practiced for 14 years selling real estate property in the Adirondacks, primarily in Forestport and the Snowbird Lake com­munity where they have owned property since 1980.

Researchers from the University of Miami studied more than 80,000 participants of the National Health Interview Survey, all of whom were at least 65 years old, and 13 percent of whom were still working. People in the workforce (particularly those with white collar jobs) were significantly more likely to report their health was good, very good or excellent than those who were unemployed or retired.

Keeping your mind active and engaged may hold the key to longevity and healthy aging. A positive outlook on life also adds to a person’s overall happiness.

Helaine and Dave lead an active life by spending the majority of their time at their cottage. They enjoy canoeing, kayaking, and paddle boarding. Dave also enjoys cutting wood while maintaining their three acre property.

They also participate in the many events and activities McHarrie Towne has to offer including; workout sessions, musical events, social hour, computer classes, bocce ball and special holiday parties.

In recognition of his versatility in playing multiple sports in his youth, Dave was inducted into the Liverpool High School Hall of Fame in 1999 as the only athlete who played in five sports in high school—basketball, baseball, football, track and golf.

Dave’s lifelong favorite sport is golf. He was a member of Beaver Meadows Golf Course for 38 years. During his time at Beaver Meadows, he was a former Club Champion and a Senior Men’s Club Champion. He’s had a total of three holes in one. Dave also won the Herald Hole-in-One Golf Tournament at Drumlin’s Country Club. Currently, Dave plays in a golf league with fellow McHarrie Towne residents on Friday mornings at Westhill Golf Course.

Dave is also a member of the YMCA where he plays Pickleball at least once a week.

When asked what his secret is to living a long and healthy life, he says, “I would not have had this wonderful life and marriage if it wasn’t for my wife, our family and friends. Family values are a major contributor to our long and happy life together.”

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e t n i o P McHarrie

Celebrates

its 10th Anniversary By: Maggie Reap, Director of Residential Services, McHarrie Pointe

I

t is hard to believe that McHarrie Pointe is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year.

Time sure flies when we are doing something that we love. Caring for people is our mission and we strive for excellence. This is represented in the quality of care provided by our caregivers every day.

In the past 10 years, McHarrie Pointe has grown its family. We have met and loved so many different residents over the years and while some have transitioned to skilled nursing care, we still see their family members who share their gratitude for the time their loved one spent in our care.

Assisted living is the ideal option for those who need help with daily activities but want to continue living life to its fullest. With a wide array of engaging lifestyle choices, residents enjoy many activities including; exercise classes, walking group, happy hour, art classes, day trips, dance lessons, yoga, movie nights, bowling and much more.

We recently obtained our Enhanced Licensure which will allow residents to age in place vs. having to transition to the nursing home sooner than needed. Enhanced residents may receive extensive assistance with transferring, walking, climbing stairs, managing their medical equipment and personal care.

With Enhanced Licensure, our resi­dents and their families are com­forted in know­ing that they have the opportunity to remain in their homes at McHarrie Pointe.

In addition to our advanced healthcare program and engaging lifestyle choices for residents,McHarrie Pointe is also deemed the most beautiful, luxurious residential living community in Central New York.

To learn more about our program, please contact Maggie Reap, Director of Residential Services at McHarrie Pointe at 315-638-2525.

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e m i T s ’ t I the

The average American drinks

44

gallons of soda a year.

k c i K to t i b a H a d So

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Did you know that consuming just one soda a day—including diet soda, can negatively impact your health?

According to Dr. Adam Bernstein, MD, of Cleveland Clinic’s Wellness Institute, daily soda consumption is directly linked to an increased risk of stroke by 16 percent. Drinking soda also increases your likelihood of developing diabetes, obesity, heart disease, dementia, kidney damage, depression, osteoporosis and certain types of cancer.

Remarkably, diet soda drinkers have a 70 percent greater increase in waist circumference compared to non-soda drinkers. The way artificial sweeteners confuse the body may play a part, but another reason may be psychological. When a person knows that their drinks are calorie-free, they are more likely to justify eating an ice cream sundae or extra slice of pizza.

A 20 ounce bottle of regular soda contains approximately 250 calories. So if you drink three sodas a day, you are drinking a whopping 750 calories—none of which have any nutritional value to your body.

Soda is also bad for your teeth. It contains phosphoric acid and carbonic acid that make your teeth vulnerable to decay. If you sip soda all day long, it imposes the most damage to your teeth because you are constantly exposing your teeth to the acids and sugar.

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Tips to Help You Quit Soda

1. Don’t stop cold turkey. If you drink more than three sodas a day, start by eliminating one soda each day and replacing it with water.

2.

Check the label. Does your soda contain caffeine? If so, you may experience headaches as part of your body’s withdrawal from the caffeine. Consider sipping on unsweetened iced or hot tea to help with the withdrawal symptoms then eventually switch to caffeine-free tea.

3.

Do you miss the fizz? Try sparkling water.

There are many flavors available and most are calorie-free with no artificial sweeteners.

4. Keep in mind that sugar is addictive.

If you are drinking regular soda, try eating one piece of fruit in place of one soda each day. You may find yourself craving sweets after you stop drinking it. Choose healthy snacks to combat your cravings.

5.

Choose water on your path to better health. Water really is the best beverage for you. There are many ways to make it taste better. One delicious alternative is quartering two freshly cleaned strawberries and one basil leaf and add it to your ice water.

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Than

nkYou

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to our wonderful supporters, friends, family members, auxiliary, volunteers, board members and local businesses for their generous gifts to our Foundation. Proceeds from our annual spring and holiday appeals, memorial and honorary gifts, fund-raising event at Syracuse Stage and major/planned giving initiatives directly impact the lives of our residents by enabling our organization to provide the very best healthcare programs and services for our senior community.

Please know that the most wonderful lifeinspiring experiences and social activities for our residents are 100 percent supported by our Foundation.

Thank you for being part of the McHarrie Life family, and for bringing smiles to the faces of our residents every day.

Your gift truly makes a difference!

Special thanks to our Syracuse Stage event sponsors:

Presenting Sponsor:

Reception Sponsor:

Underwriters: Bonadio Group ONEGROUP Yang-Patyi Law Firm Supporters: Horan Wealth Management Laboratory Alliance Woodcock & Armani

Dessert Sponsor: Alzheimer’s Association of CNY Media Sponsors: Eagle Newspapers Dupli

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SPRING/SUMMER 2020

H g e a n i l z t a h Bene m A e h fits t y o j o n f E

Strawberries Did you know that one cup of strawberries contains more vitamin C than an orange?

Strawberries are the perfect antioxidant fruit available in abundance throughout the year. There are many ways to prepare and enjoy them as part of a healthy diet.

Consider the many reasons why strawberries may boost your overall health; Research shows they reduce your risk of a heart attack. A 2013 Harvard study of nearly 100,000 young and middle-aged women found that eating at least three servings of strawberries a week reduced the risk of heart attack by 32 percent. Researchers credit the high levels of antioxidants in strawberries for this finding.

They may help to prevent cancer. Regular consumption of strawberries and other berries are linked to reduced risk of certain types of cancer.

They keep you regular. Fiber plays an important role in keeping your gut healthy by feeding it good bacteria. When you add more fiberrich foods to your diet, you help combat constipation, bloating and more serious diseases like colon cancer.

Strawberries can boost your immunity. Although Vitamin C cannot prevent the common cold, it can reduce its severity and duration. You can get your daily requirement of vitamin C by eating just one cup of sliced strawberries.

They are a great healthy dessert. The natural, low-calorie sweetness of strawberries helps to satisfy sugar cravings especially for those who are dieting.

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Strawberry Pie II

Yield: One 9-inch pie Servings: 8 Ingredients: 1 (9-inch) pie crust, baked 1 quart fresh strawberries 1 cup white sugar 3 tablespoons of corn starch ¾ cup of water ½ cup heavy whipp ing cream

Here are some handy, healthful tips for incorporating more strawberries into your diet: ● Dice strawberries and add them to your chicken salad. ● Make your own fruit cocktail with fresh fruit. Include grapes, pineapple, sliced peaches, and strawberries. Drizzle a small amount of honey on top of the fruit mixture for extra sweetness, if needed. ● Add sliced strawberries to plain Greek yogurt with a drizzle of agave nectar and sliced almonds. ● Top whole-grain waffles, pancakes, or oatmeal with fresh strawberries, or fold them into muffins and sweetbreads. You can also blend strawberries in a food processor with a little water and use as a fresh syrup to top desserts or breakfast foods.

D irections

Arrange half of the strawberries in baked pastr y shell. Mash remain ing berries and combine with sugar in a mediu m saucepan. Place saucepan ove r medium heat and bring to a boil, stirring fre quently.

In a small bowl, whisk together cor nstarch and water. Gradually stir cornstarch mixture into boiling strawberry mi xture. Reduce heat and simmer mi xture until thickened, about 10 minutes, stir ring constantly. Pour mixture ove r berries in pastr y shell. Chill for several hours before ser ving. In a small bowl, wh ip cream until sof t peaks form. Serve each slice of pie with a dollop of whipp ed cream.

Per ser ving: 265 calories, 10.9 gra ms total fat, 20 mg cholesterol, 109 mg sod ium, 41.9 grams carbohydrates, 1.5 gram pro tein Source: www.allrecipes.com

● Mix cut strawberries into a spinach salad with walnuts and goat cheese. ● Toast a whole-grain bagel and top with light cream cheese and strawberries. ● Put some frozen, unsweetened strawberries into a blender with a banana, low-fat milk, and ice for a quick and easy strawberry and banana smoothie.

Source: Medical News Today

WE ADMIRE YOU. THERE’S NO SECRET ABOUT THAT. Don’t Keep it a Secret. Please tell us about your gift.

Have you made a gift to McHarrie Life Foundation in your will or estate plan?

If so, please tell us about it. We can shout it from the rooftop or keep it quiet if you wish to stay anonymous. Either way, knowing about your plans allows us to express our appreciation and to prepare for a strong future.

Are you thinking about making a gift from your estate plan to McHarrie Life Foundation but don’t know how to start or what kind of gift might be best for you to give? We can help with that too; just give us a call and we’ll be glad to walk you through it.

Your support and legacy gifts allow us to continue the good work that you’ve entrusted us to do for many years to come. m Give life insurance you no longer need. m Make a gift through your will or trust. m Save on taxes by giving appreciated stocks, bonds or mutual fund shares. m Make a gift through your retirement plan. m Use a gift to reduce your estate tax exposure and eliminate capital gains.

We’d like to give you the thanks you deserve.

Contact us to let us know: Audrey Gibbs 315.638.2521 agibbs@mcharrielife.org Explore more creative giving opportunities at:

www.mcharrielife.org

“As a resident of the McHarrie Towne Independent Living Community, I benefit every day from the generosity of McHarrie Life Foundation which donated the funds to build this wonderful community. In addition, the residents of McHarrie Life benefit from the advanced healthcare programs and services supported by the Foundation. I’m a proud member of this community and give so that future generations may continue to enjoy these life enhancing benefits.”

— Norma Widmann, McHarrie Towne resident and Foundation Board member

MCHARRIE LIFE FOUNDATION 7740 MEIGS ROAD BALDWINSVILLE, NY 13027

NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION U.S. POSTAGE

PAID BALDWINSVILLE NY PERMIT #6

SO VER Y

Grateful for the wonder of technology and its ability to connect our residents and families during this difficult time...