Our Time - Fall 2012

OurTime

Fall 2012

LIVING 50 PLUS IN NORTHEAST INDIANA

Bicycling provides health benefits, fun

Eye Exams

xxx a glimpse give at overall health

Since

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HERALD REPUBLICAN

Over 100 Years

The Star

1911

You’re 65

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Is it time to retire?

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September 28, 2012

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Our Time

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Not just for the young anymore Silver Sneakers class provides exercise opportunities for people over 50 predmond@kpcnews.net KENDALLVILLE — When Carol Angus walks into the Cole Center YMCA in Kendallville, her step seems a little quicker, and her spirits a little brighter.

Angus, a 69-year-old grandmother, is headed into her Silver Sneakers exercise class. The program is geared toward helping older adults take control of their health by doing exercises designed to make life for the elderly a little bit easier.

Angus said she is a prime example of how well the program works. Just last year, she suffered a medical setback, and

was left with problems of weakness and balance. Now, Angus said, because of the Silver Sneakers program, she’s feeling great.

“I’m in better shape now than I was before,” she explains, proudly pointing to the Silver Sneakers T-shirt she wears.

Fitness, it seems, is not just for the under-40 crowd anymore.

Silver Sneakers is national program that was first unveiled at the Cole Center in 2006. It is a fitness program geared toward older adults, and works to help alleviate issues with joint flexible, balance and strength as well as providing a moderate cardio workout. The workouts are designed to be very successful and at the same time low impact.

The program stresses no one is too old to exercise, and participants are taught to not try too much too fast. They are also encouraged to exercise at intensity level appropriate to their health. In information provided by the Cole Center Family

Welcome!

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BY PATRICK REDMOND

Baby boomers around northeast Indiana are getting older, but they’re certainly not slowing down! Whether you’re looking for ways to stay healthy and fit, get used to living in your “empty nest” or get involved in something fun in the area, if you’re 50 or older, this section has something for you!

This guide is also available online at kpcnews.com.

THIS IS FOR

• Services • Activities • Exercise • Meals • Trips • Billiard Room • Exercise Equipment Room and volunteer opportunities!

UPCOMING EVENTS ANNUAL SENIOR BASH • THURS., OCT. 25 CHRISTMAS BAZAAR • SAT., DEC. 1

PATRICK REDMOND

A Silver Sneakers class meets at the Cole Center Family YMCA.

YMCA about the program, it states that research has shown that elderly people who haven’t been physically active experience more disability in their daily life than people who have been active.

At the Cole Center Family YMCA, with nearly 600 people are enrolled in the

Kendallville Silver Sneakers classes.

“It’s hugely popular,” said Rob Imber, the YMCA’s member engagement director.

Silver Sneakers classes are divided into two different programs. The first is moderate cardio workout; the second, a See SILVER SNEAKERS page 4

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Our Time

September 28, 2012

SILVER SNEAKERS

As you age, exercise smarter

From page 3

class geared toward helping seniors with issues of flexibility, balance and range of motion. Many of the exercises are performed from the safety of a chair, and use small items like weights, rubberized bands and a small plastic ball, all to the constant beat of music.

Angus said these classes have helped her stay active.

Exercises are designed to make everyday life a little easier. Simple tasks like putting on a sweatshirt and climbing in and out of car can be more difficult with stiff joints. Angus says many of the PATRICK REDMOND exercises she and her classmates do are designed to help alleviate those very Kenny Amstutz works out during a problems.

Silver Sneakers class at the Cole Center Imber said that’s something he and the Family YMCA. staff hear from Silver Sneakers members Imber said the most important part of all the time. the program is learning to exercise smartly “People tell us it’s easier to get up in the morning, easier to stand up out of a big and safely. chair because of the exercises in Silver “Silver Sneakers teaches preparing and Sneakers classes,” he explained. “A lot of precaution,” he said. “Properly warming the activities of daily life become easier up and properly cooling down is especially because of those exercises.” important after 55.” clubs Explore book ies at area librar

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IU tops VCU, 16 heads to Sweet

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Expect a low Page B8

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March 18, 2012

area since 1857

Weather Angola manChance of showe charged after and storms todayrs home entry atwith high near 78.

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N— candidates for All four state represen tative from District 52 are scheduled to take debate Tuesday part in a in Middaugh at 6:30 p.m.

Hall, Union St., Auburn 708 S. DeKalb County , on the Fairgrounds.

Gary Harbaug h, Paul Moss, David Powers and Ben Smaltz are the Republican running for in District 52 nomination in primary election the May 8 .

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ANGOLA — Power County Antique host its 28th Association will on Saturday. annual Plow Day tractors Around 20 antique north of will plow 20 acres 327. Work U.S. 20 on S.R. Shuman the will begin on N. S.R. 327, 530 family farm, Ham and beans around 9 a.m. at noon. served be will 21 Rain date is April

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Get Read Explore book clubsing Page C1 at area libraries

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TUESDAY, APRIL

Angola, Indiana

It is ANGOLA — Safety National Public Dispatchers Week. be an It is meant to public to the opportunity fortion for 911 show apprecia dispatchers.

County The Steuben Center s nication Commu municipalidispatches many and the ties, fire districts service emergency medical County. that serves Steuben ers are The county dispatch answering 12 responsible for phone lines, non-emergency calls, answering 911 responding and monitoring 30 radio on approximatelyhandling frequencies and3,000 calls approximately month. for service per are trained on Dispatchers technology state-of-the-art medical and emergency res. dispatch procedu nicaAmong the commu by tions traffic handlednications community commu department, are the sheriff’s ents, town police departm and rescue volunteer fire ces, ambulan ent, departm and animal wrecker serviceshandles aftercontrol. It also variety of a hours calls to agencies.

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the project. years,” has grounded working more than two “We’ve been Weaver Jr., chair of the said Dr. R. Wyatt off as the aviation board. is not that long,” joked Angola Persistence paidand elected ANGOLA — “Two years n.

Aviation Board Dick Hickma t was regarding the fact Steuben County broke ground on a County Mayor Angola took officials finally l at the Tri-State Steuben Hickman’s commen in downtown ation termina hangar/ the revitaliz . $1.6 years to get going. said Airport Mondayterminal will cost around so more than 30 have an airport,” Smith. nd access The hangar/ Ron “Very few cities provide year-rou Commissioner million and will s don’t ice up in the winter. commercial side.

Steuben County d to is more for the jets and airplane floor will be renovate “The upgrade for your perseverance.” said , Part of the secondlounge and an elevator to Congratulations Angola council member done include a pilot’s Dave Martin, of what can be get the project is an example access that level.board has been trying to bidding the The aviation but funding and runway, the project off

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Center Family YMCA recommends aquatic-based training for a vigorous workout without all the pounding.

Jeff Lauer, owner and trainer of Anytime Fitness in Auburn, tells all his clients to remember that training and getting healthy is like running a marathon, not a sprint race.

“Studies have shown, people in their eighties who exercise have benefits that are just as good as those in their 20s or 30s,” said Rob Imber, the Cole Center’s member engagement director.

“It’s not going to happen overnight,” he cautions. “Take it easy, maybe only working out two times a week. Take time to build up your endurance.”

Another important aspect of senior health is to carefully keep track of what exercises are being done and how many.

Seniors are a growing part of his business. Lauer said he recommends anyone 50 and older start out by first getting their doctor’s approval to exercise, and then join a fitness program and seek the help of a professional trainer.

“Ask for suggestions about what to do and how to do it,” Lauer explains.

He added that clients 50 and older need to remember that recovery after exercise takes longer as you grow older, so be careful not to overdo it.

For those seniors whose joints have already taken a pounding in life, the Cole

“Set goals and log what you’re doing, so you know if you’re reaching your goals,” Lauer explains.

Another important part of a good senior exercise program is eating healthy, and that includes making sure you have ample protein in the diet.

“That’s what the body needs to feel good and to be able to work out,” he explained For those already working out, Lauer said the improved health benefits sometimes include eliminating the need for some medication.

“People who work out just feel better about themselves,” he added.

Your news. Your way.

Get Reading! t’ ‘21 Jump Stree Hoosiers Win

AUBURN — While you’re never too old to exercise, local experts say the older you are, the smarter you have to exercise.

was g in Missouri, spending n a primary thatwhere he delegates. Missour i s were meeting uses Saturday, in the first choosing delegate convention who s to are

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September 28, 2012

Our Time

5

Turning 65 doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t always mean time to retire Baby boomers have many options, decisions for their financial planning

many cases, an IRA grants the investor more flexibility while retaining the taxdeferred benefits of the account. â&#x20AC;&#x153;An IRA may also give the investor the opportunity to realize lower expenses, which is a key consideration.

Reasons that may complicate the decision would include things like the need to take early withdrawals and the BOB BUTTGEN ownership of liquid company stock,â&#x20AC;? leader@kpcnews.net According to a recent survey done by said Benedict, who is a chartered financial analyst. the Employee Benefit Research Whatever option seniors choose, Institute, only 14 percent of Americans Benedict said, it is important that they are very confident that they will have insist on transparency in their investenough money to live comfortably in ment accounts. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Things like annuities or retirement. opaque adviser mask high fees and limit As more and more baby boomers elect to stay in the workforce, instead of access to oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s money,â&#x20AC;? he said.

Many people probably have a target going into full-retirement mode, more retirement date in mind, but the benefits information is needed in order for people in their 60s make smart decisions of continuing to work may be enough to help you get on track. on their finances.

Recent studies have shown that Many experts are now saying that for delaying retirement by one year can those who are lacking confidence about improve the probability of retiring whether or not they have saved enough successfully by 18 percent; delaying two for retirement, pushing back their years can improve the probability of intended retirement date is a popular retiring successfully by 37 percent; and and good option.

One of the necessary decisions when delaying three years can improve the probability of retiring successfully by 55 facing some level of retirement is what to do with funds in a 401(k), which have percent. In summary, delaying retirereplaced the traditional pension enjoyed ment can yield a significant, positive impact on the probability of retirement by man who entered the workforce in success. the 1950s and â&#x20AC;&#x2122;60s.

Other factors also have to be taken â&#x20AC;&#x153;Deciding whether or not to roll your into consideration, Benedict noted.

401(k) over into an IRA depends on the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Given the current low interest rate specific circumstances of the investor,â&#x20AC;? environment, earning superior rates of said Jacob Benedict, director of research at AMI Investments in Kendallville. â&#x20AC;&#x153;In return on investment accounts will be

liquid assets on hand at retirement, difficult. Accordingly, seniors the choice comes down to putting should make sure to be conserthat money into stocks versus vative when they forecast how bonds, Benedict said. much support they can expect â&#x20AC;&#x153;When deciding, one to receive from their 401(k)â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s shouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t assume that they or IRAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s in retirement or semishould avoid stocks simply retirement,â&#x20AC;? he said. because they are old. The Working longer may not be proper allocation depends something that most on the investorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s people particularly willingness and want to do. But if the ability to take alternative is being risk,â&#x20AC;? he said. underfunded and â&#x20AC;&#x153;The ability to unprepared for retiretake risk it ment, it may be the typically best choice for determined by many who are the purpose of approaching age the investment 65. assets. If the One big factor investor that plays into the intends to decision of leave the assets working longer is a to his or her heirs rule that allows in the distant people to delay future, and has no when they start plans to touch the taking Social money, it may Security benefits. If make sense to you can afford it, try METRO CREATIVE CONNECTION allocate a fair waiting until age 70 Whatever financial option seniors to get your monthly choose, it is important that they insist on amount of the portfolio to social security transparency in their investment stocks, even checks. Benefits accounts. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be afraid to ask questions and get everything in writing, though the could be almost experts recommend. investor is double what it older.â&#x20AC;? would be if you Any investment horizons over 7 to 10 start taking it at 62. years give the investor more flexibility, For those who are lucky enough to he added. have a substantial amount of savings or

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September 28, 2012

Good eye care will help preserve sight, aid overall health

BY GRACE HOUSHOLDER graceh@kpcnews.net

are an extension of brain tissue. Blood vessels, the retina and the optic nerve Recent advances in eye care are can reveal changes that might be creating more opportunities for taking place in other organs or other diagnosis and positive action - aiding areas of the body.â&#x20AC;? not just eye health, but overall health as An examination of the retina reveals well. much about eye health and overall Working together, individuals and health because the retina and the layer optometrists can do much to preserve beneath the retina contain and improve both health and many blood vessels. sight. â&#x20AC;&#x153;An examination Optometrists agree can reveal systemic that the eye is the vascular diseases window to the such as hypertenbody. sion, high cholesâ&#x20AC;&#x153;The eye is terol and diabetes,â&#x20AC;? the only place in Morrow said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;A retinal the body that examination can help the doctor can see blood predict stroke risk, detect brain vessels and an extension of brain tissue tumors and reveal signs of systemic in their natural state without cutting disease such as leukemia. During an tissue,â&#x20AC;? said Dr. Douglas Morrow of examination, the retina is evaluated for Auburn. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The retina and optic nerve See EYE CARE page 7 CHAD KLINE

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Dr. Douglas Marrow and Dr. Michelle Frye pose with a new Optos retinal imaging system at their office.

Tips to keep your eyes as healthy as possible The following tips will help people have healthier eyes for as many years as possible.

4ARGETED 2ADIATION AT THE 2EGIONAL #ANCER #ARE #ENTER OF !NGOLA )F YOU OR SOMEONE YOU LOVE FACES CANCER THEN RADIA TION THERAPY MAY BE AN IMPORTANT PART OF THE TREAT MENT APPROACH &ORTUNATELY RADIATION TECHNOLOGY IS CLOSE BY AT THE 2EGIONAL #ANCER #ARE #ENTER OF !NGOLA WHERE EXPERTS PRECISELY TARGET AND DESTROY CANCER WITH MINIMAL DAMAGE TO HEALTHY CELLS

â&#x20AC;˘ Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t smoke. Smoking has been determined to be a high risk factor in development and progression of macular degeneration. â&#x20AC;˘ Enjoy fruits and vegetables, especially green leafy vegetables such as spinach and kale.

Supplements like omega 3 fatty acids (fish oil) can support good eye health.

â&#x20AC;˘ Avoid exposing the eye to UV light; UV light can lead to retinal damage. Good sunglasses help protect the eyes from harmful ultraviolet radiation which contributes to cataract development and macular degeneration. â&#x20AC;˘ Get regular exercise. â&#x20AC;˘ Contacts should be worn only as prescribed. Take them out when indicated, replace as prescribed and clean as directed.

ŠKPC Media Group Inc. â&#x20AC;˘ kpcnews.com

September 28, 2012

From page 6

â&#x20AC;˘

Avoid blindness by learning more about glaucoma METRO CREATIVE SERIVES As people age, many expect their health to begin to deteriorate at least a little bit.

While science has made many advancements and people are now living longer and healthier lives, there are still some signs people recognize as signs of aging.

And these signs can begin as early as a personâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 20s, growing more noticeable as time goes on.

One side effect many inappropriately associate strictly with aging is glaucoma.

Though commonly considered a disease of the elderly, glaucoma is not strictly limited to baby boomers and seniors citizens.

While the Glaucoma Research Foundation notes that the elderly are at a higher risk for glaucoma, they are also quick to point out that 1 out of every 10,000 babies born in the United States is born with glaucoma, illustrating the broad expanse of this potentially harmful disease.

With that in mind, consider the following quick facts about glaucoma: â&#x20AC;˘ Roughly half of the 4 million Americans who have glaucoma are

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macular degeneration, macular exam will allow these eye diseases to swelling, retinal tears, retina detachbe seen. ments and retinal or choroidal tumors.

For some patients the first indicaThe examination can detect signs of tions of systemic diseases like multiple sclerosis, glaucoma, optic diabetes, hypertension and neurolognerve swelling and increased intracraical disorders can be seen when the nial pressure.â&#x20AC;? retinal examination is performed.

Dr. Morrow Alan has a new â&#x20AC;&#x153;An examination can reveal systemic Optos Roush of Kendallvascular diseases such as hypertension, retinal ville imaging added that system high cholesterol and diabetes.â&#x20AC;? a comprewhich hensive provides a dilated retinal map Dr. Douglas Morrow eye â&#x20AC;&#x201D; thought Optometrist examinato be the tion can best overall lead to image of the detection of glaucoma, macular retina possible with an imaging degeneration and cataracts. system. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The dilated eye exam may also â&#x20AC;&#x153;The image produced by the Optos highlight possible systemic conditions system is called an optomap,â&#x20AC;? Morrow such as diabetes, multiple sclerosis, explained. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The technology was high cholesterol, brain tumors and developed in Scotland by an engineer more,â&#x20AC;? he said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;A yearly dilated whose son had lost vision when a vision exam can help save sight with retinal detachment was diagnosed too early treatment and can help streamlate to save his vision. The traditional line systemic care through a primary view of the retina is a 30 degree field. care physician.â&#x20AC;?

The Optos technology provides a 200 Morrow said the eye like the heart degree field of view of the retina. The relies on healthy blood vessels to optomap image is generated in less function properly. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Because of the than a second with the use of a high large number of blood vessels in the tech mirror imaging system. The new eye, the correlation to the heart is â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Daytonaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; instrument has tremendous significant. Blood vessel changes image resolution.â&#x20AC;? noted in the eye can suggest that the Roush tells patients to â&#x20AC;&#x153;check heart may also have problems. An yearly to see clearly.â&#x20AC;? He believes examination can reveal retinal vein everyone should have a thorough blockage and can indicate cholesterol dilated eye exam yearly for preventaproblems that may also pose danger tive and early care. for the heart. Likewise, an exam can Roush said in the 33 years that he reveal other signs of carotid artery has been in practice, in his opinion the disease when an embolism from a single greatest technology to change partially blocked carotid artery is seen the profession is tomography. An OCT during the retinal examination.â&#x20AC;?

(Optical Coherence Tomography) is Morrow said the leading cause of done to detect changes in the tissue in blindness in adults under age 75 is the retina and the optic nerve that gain diabetic retinopathy. The leading cause very early detection of ocular disease. of blindness among adults of all ages â&#x20AC;&#x153;The OCT is truly a sight saver!â&#x20AC;? he is macular degeneration. The retinal said.

7

unaware they have it. â&#x20AC;˘ Glaucoma is a leading cause of blindness. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s important to get routine eye examinations, as even those who do and receive adequate treatment for glaucoma will not necessarily avoid blindness. In fact, roughly 10 percent of people with glaucoma who receive proper treatment still experience loss of vision. For those who never get treatment, the likelihood of blindness is even greater. â&#x20AC;˘ There are not necessarily symptoms of glaucoma. The importance of eye examinations is further emphasized by the very real likelihood there will be no discernible symptoms of glaucoma, as doctors often diagnose the disease before patients know they even have a vision problem. When vision loss begins, it does so with diminished peripheral vision. Many people subconsciously compensate by turning their head to the side. â&#x20AC;˘ According to the Glaucoma Research Foundation, African-Americans are particularly susceptible to glaucoma at a young age.

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kpcnews.com â&#x20AC;˘ ŠKPC Media Group Inc.

September 28, 2012

Bicycling provides health benefits, recreational fun

BY OCTAVIA LEHMAN

olehman@kpcnews.net AUBURN â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Jim Otis came to a crossroads: workout to be healthier or go on insulin because of diabetes complications. He chose to work out.

However, as spent time in the gym he realized he did not enjoy it. It felt like torture. So, he started doing something he did in his youth â&#x20AC;&#x201D; bicycling.

Bicycling gave him the same health benefits as the gym and with less stress to his knees. After visiting the doctor he had confirmation that the exercise was working.

His triglyceride levels were getting back to normal.

After Otis became more involved with bicycling, he started his own club, Broken Spokes, to encourage others to get involved too.

The group meets Monday nights at New Hope Christian Church in Waterloo to ride

in two stages: easy and difficult.

Otisâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; goal was to encourage new riders to join no matter what skill level; he just wanted to get them riding.

Bicycling, besides recreational fun, is also good for health. The American Diabetes Association recommends bicycling as one of the moderateintensity activities that raises the heart rate but doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t leave people out of breath.

Other activities include brisk walking, dancing and swimming.

CYCLING FOR COUPLES

In Albion, Bill and Peg DeMott enjoy cycling on tandem. DeMott, at 65, a frequent health enthusiast uses cycling to burn calories, which he calculates is more than 4,000 a week.

In the winter when he canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t ride outside See BICYCLING page 9

OCTAVIA LEHMAN

In DeKalb County, members of the a local bike club, Broken Spokes, meet Monday nights at New Hope Christian Church in Waterloo to ride in two different loops: easy and difficult. From left, are Dustin Faltermeier, Susan Zuber, Chris Clear, Talmon Clear, Kellie Getts and Sallie Pease.

Area Trails

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DeKalb County A 1.3-mile bike trail at Rieke Park, 1600 N. Indiana Ave., runs from North Street to Betz Road in Auburn. The park also has benches and baseball fields.

A 4-mile trail runs from Morningstar Rd. at Bridgewater Golf Clubâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s west course and Cedar Street to Wayne St. in Waterloo. The trail parallels C.R. 427.

Steuben County The Angola Recreational Trailway runs from Commons Park, 299 S. John St., Angola, to Williams Street, past the YMCA of Steuben County.

LaGrange County The Pumpkinvine Nature Trail runs from Elkhart to LaGrange County.

Join the trail in Shipshewana at C.R. 850, 0.6 mile west of town.

Parking is available at the Pak-ASak at the intersection of S.R. 5 and C.R. 250. From Shipshewana

to Middlebury the trail is 6.3 miles long. Visit pumpkinvine.org for more information.

Noble County Bixler Lake Park Trail, 211 Iddings St., Kendallville, features a trail less than one mile through the park.

Chain Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Lakes State Park, 2355 E. 75 S., Albion, also features bike trails. The trail includes four different paths to take, all of the trails add up to 6 miles.

Other resources The Department of Natural Resources offers a trail inventory on its website at in.gov/dnr/outdoor.

The Trail Link, a Rails-to-Trails Conservancy lists trails and maps of Indiana bike trails at traillink.com.

Bike Rides in Indiana lists touring bicycle rides in and around Indiana at brinin.org

©KPC Media Group Inc. • kpcnews.com

September 28, 2012

Our Time

9

BICYCLING From page 8

However, while he works out on a bike trips can take spin bike. The DeMotts belong to “This is a great area for long rides.” people on adventures, local trails and roads the Indiana tandem have plenty of organization, Peg DeMott opportunity for Hoosiers Out On Bicyclist exercise.

Tandems.

DeMott enjoys The DeMotts are bicycling on the not the only couple country roads. “This devoted to riding, area is good for long Gary and Elma rides,” she said.

Chapman of Howe also hit the road.

“People in LaGrange are used to The couple met on bicycle trip in 1980 and have shared since shared a love for the watching out for buggies,” she added.

Safety on the road is also important. sport. Chapman bicycles with teachers DeMott warns that bicyclists should always from Lakeland High School, where she keep an eye on what’s happening. “Don’t worked before retiring in 2010.

Her and husband have gone on multiple wear headphones or music,” he said.

And for Chapman safety gear is also bike trips around the country, visiting important. “Helmets make a lot of sense,” places such as South Dakota, British she said.

Columbia and Germany.

•

OCTAVIA LEHMAN

Bill and Peg DeMott of Albion ride on tandem and belong to Hoosiers Out On Tandem, or HOOTS.

OCTAVIA LEHMAN

The Pumpkvine Nature Trail runs from Elkhart County to LaGrange County on the old Pumpkvine railroad corridor, with multiple starting points. In LaGrange County, bicyclists can start at C.R. 850, less than a mile west of Shipshewana. The trail is open daily from sunrise to sunset. Motorized vehicles are prohibited.

10

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September 28, 2012

Wills are important for everyone to consider

BY KATHRYN BASSETT kathrynb@kpcnews.net Estate planning is not only for wealthy people. A will spells out how an individual wants his or her property to be distributed after he or she dies.

Auburn attorney Robert Hardy recommends seeking professional assistance when drafting a will. Estate law can be complex and will kits may not be made with Indiana law in mind, he said, Hardy said people should not be intimidated about making a will and that a good attorney will be able to explain everything in plain language.

Hardy recommends writing down questions and concerns ahead of the appointment with the attorney and bringing the list to the appointment. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It is easy to get overwhelmed or leave something out at their appointment and a list will help them accomplish their goals,â&#x20AC;? Hardy said.

Hardy recommends that parents of with minor children consider nominating a guardian for their children. It also is a good idea to nominate alternative beneficiaries and personal representatives in the event that the person writing the will outlives named beneficiaries and personal representatives.

Hardy said it is important to tell family or friends about the existence of a will and where it is located so that the will can be found when it is needed. He suggests keeping a will in a secure location such as a safe deposit box or fire safe.

Kendallville attorney Michael Yoder said a person should consider three things when drawing up a will. â&#x20AC;&#x153;What do I have? Who do I want to have it? When should they get it?â&#x20AC;? Yoder said.

Yoder said it probably is not wise to give large sums of money to anyone in one lump sum. He recommends dividing the amount and disbursing it at three separate times. If the recipient is not responsible with the money on the first disbursement, he or she may do better on the second occasion, Yoder explained.

Yoder said it is important to specify to whom money and property will go and not to assume that one individual will take care of other family members not named in a will. â&#x20AC;&#x153;If they choose not to take care of everybody else, theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll get it all,â&#x20AC;? Yoder noted.

METRO CREATIVE CONNECTION A will also names an executor, who is responsible for settling the estate after Men and women should prioritize estate planning regardless of their age or financial status. death. Any person over the age of 18, who hasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t been convicted of a felony, COME AND ENJOY THE 40TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE FASHION FARM PUMPKIN FANTASYLAND can be named executor of a will. An executor could be a lawyer, accountant, financial consultant, friend or relative.

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September 28, 2012

Our Time

11

Funny kid stories provide Take time during downsizing a trip down memory lane

BY JENNIFER DECKER

Empty Nesters

mmunity Co

•R

esident

Phoenix; Portland, Ore.; Albuquerque; Dallas; Orlando; and Washington, D.C. Source: Forbes.com.

WE ARE FAMILY SERVING FAMILIES

amily • •F

Experience the Best John Hammel

Admitted May 23, 2012 Discharged August 3, 2012 John was admitted after a brief stay at Cameron and Parkview hospitals. He had swelling in his lower extremities which was slow to improve. When he arrived his pain level was high and he needed maximum assistance with all his activities of daily living. Lakeland’s therapy team provided electrical stimulation for strengthening and neuromuscular re-education. They also worked on high level balance activities and stair manipulation as John had many stairs to contend with at home. With the care from Lakeland’s dedicated therapists and the most up to date therapy modalities, John was able to walk 250 feet at a time. His wife, children, and grandchildren were always here to cheer him on. On August 3rd he was able to return home where he can now safely care for himself and be with his wife and family.

John had this to say about his stay at Lakeland: “They’ve been very good. I appreciate all they’ve done. The therapists and my wound nurse are the best. I loved the breakfast and I love this new room. I’ve had very good treatment here. The new equipment is great!”

•R

esident

mmunity Co

The following are the top towns for empty nesters to live in: Las Vegas; Raleigh, N.C.; Austin, Texas; Atlanta;

amily • •F

PHOTO CONTRIBUTED

Sisters Norah and Meredith Miller at the beach in Destin, Fla., searching for tiny shells in the sand.

“My advice is to keep your own self busy finding new hobbies or interests. I had more time for my interests. Give it time,” she said.

Those who are most at risk for having the empty nest blues after the kids grow up and move out are those having difficulty with change, published reports said.

Others who are most at risk include full-time parents, those struggling with menopause, retirement and aging parents.

To make the transition easy, it’s suggested to: • plan ahead; • get to know your spouse; • make a dream list; • avoid big changes; • talk to other empty nesters; • prepare.

m p l o y ee •E

Upon their return their grandmother asked, “Well, did you get a hole in one?”

Alton replied, “No, I got a hole in A LOT!” — Diane Schlemmer (grandmother) of LaGrange MaKayla, 5, was driving with her grandmother to town. It was a dark day with low, rolling clouds. There was a small break in the clouds and the sunshine spilled out. MaKayla said, “Oh! Look, Grandma! God’s got His door open!” — Iris Cash (grandmother of MaKayla) of Berne Melinda’s daughter Erin had just turned 2. They were outside one evening at dusk and she discovered the moon.

They had a long discussion about the moon being out at night and the sun sleeping at night. Erin looked at the moon again and said, “Mommy, the moon is broken.” Melinda asked Erin how that happened and she said, “Grandpa did it.

But it is OK … Daddy will fix it!” — Melinda Pippenger of Kendallville During a get-together the family noticed that niece, Emma, not yet 1, was getting too big for her pajamas. The pajamas were a one-piece unit with feet, so one of the adults mentioned that it was time to cut the feet off. PJ, 4, Emma’s cousin, interrupted with a very serious, “That would hurt!” — Aunt Beverly of Syracuse

m p l o y ee •E

BY GRACE HOUSHOLDER graceh@kpcnews.net Here are some stories from my 2008 files. Saving the funny and heartwarming things kids say is a wonderful way to preserve and share the joy children bring to our lives. Thank you to everyone who shares stories with me!

Alicia, 3, was dressing herself. She asked her grandmother how she looked.

Her grandmother replied, “Oh, Alicia, you have got your shoes on the wrong feet.” Alicia started crying. Her father came and asked what was going on.

Alicia sobbed, “Oh, Daddy, Grandma says I have my shoes on the wrong feet.

Will you tell Grandma these are the only feet I’ve got!” — Margaret Miller of Butler Betty became an instant grandma when her daughter married a man with five children. While babysitting she was playing “This little piggy goes to market” with Teagan, 3, and Sophia, 4. Later they were playing with their dolls and Betty heard one of them say, “This little piggy goes to K-Mart …” — Betty Murray of Lagro Ogden, 5, and Alton, 4, were excited when Grandpa Fritz bought them a new set of junior golf clubs. They were going to Heron Creek to try them out and Alton boasted, “I’m going to get a hole in one!”

jdecker@kpcnews.net PLEASANT LAKE — When Dawn Oberlin’s son and daughter grew up and moved out of the family home 10 years ago, Oberlin found herself facing making changes.

She was suddenly an empty nester with tons of space.

“It was a whole new way of life finding spare time for myself. It was sad and not something I was used to,” she said. “It was very quiet. I knew I wouldn’t need all the space.”

So she decided there was a need to regroup.

It worked out, as Oberlin decided to downsize into a smaller home going from three bedrooms down to one. Thinking back, she said it was a good decision.

Lakeland Skilled Nursing and Rehab Quality Care Indicators: • Lakeland has received the “Clinical Excellence Award” for the last 9 years.

• In 2011, Lakeland rehabilitated 52 patients back home through the Homeward Bound Program.

• 2011 Bronze Award Winner - for outstanding performance in the health care profession

500 North Williams St., Angola, IN 46703 • 260-665-2161

12

Our Time

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September 28, 2012

Assisted living can be exciting, scary

BY AARON ORGAN

aorgan@kpcnews.net

When an elderly person reaches the point in their life when everyday life becomes difficult or even hazardous, assisted living centers can offer peace of mind. The day when a family decides to take the step can be overwhelming, but exciting, as well.

Typically, when a person struggles with basic aspects of daily living — eating, bathing, taking medication, or even walking — an assisted living center can offer a new lease on life. With trained medical staff on-call, residents can live in well-maintained apartmentstyle units, with dining and laundry facilities right down the hall.

Getting there, though, is a process.

Tricia Neary, the Community Sales Manager with Lutheran Life Villages in Kendallville, said most people will come at the beginning of the process, confused about what level of care the resident will need. At that point, centers will launch a full-scale study of the resident —

generally called an assessment — to learn what level of dependency they require.

Neary said the assessment process involves speaking not only with the resident, but with as many members of the family as possible. Personnel will also study the resident’s movements and actions during the assessment to help formulate a decision.

Another major factor to consider, though, should be the type of environment the resident would be most comfortable in, said Julie Vose of Smith Farms Manor of Auburn.

Vose said Smith Farms offers residents a personal relationship between staff and residents that can be backed with several staff members having been with the facility for all 15 years it has been in business.

“Our environment can really create a AARON ORGAN nice relationship between staff and Maxine Keller, right, and Ruby Morrison, left, residents at Smith Farms Manor in residents, resolving in them having a Auburn snip fresh-picked green beans in the assisted living center’s common greater personality and relationships,” See ASSISTED LIVING page 13

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room. Assisted living centers such as Smith Farms and Lutheran Life Village in Kendallville offer residents apartment-style living with a community atmosphere, but with nursing on staff to offer peace.

A unique Personal Service Agency bridging the gap between independent living and long term care facilities.

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The dining room at Smith Farms Manor in Auburn offers residents on-demand dining, where residents can order a prepared-to-order cheeseburger or salad at any time. Assisted living centers provide residents with largely self-sufficient daily life, but with nursing and staff on-site to provide supervision or assistance with activities of daily life.

©KPC Media Group Inc. • kpcnews.com

September 28, 2012

ASSISTED LIVING From page 12

Vose said. “The environment plays a great role in the overall psyche. We consistently work to exceed the expectations of the residents and their families.”

Vose said Smith Farms, which houses many residents who suffer from dementia, offers medication reminders to its residents, and focuses on routines. It also offers Lifeline services for each resident as part of its fee, and its spacious apartments are modified for elderly residents.

Smith Farms offers apartment-style living in studio, one bedroom and two bedroom apartments.

Lutheran Life, too, has apartmentstyle living ranging from studio to 1,500 square feet of living space.

Perhaps the most important step in the assisted living facility shopping process is determining a price point, because the care is not cheap. It’s also a step that facilities encourage residents and their families to have already prepared.

Neary said at early on, families should make sure they have a plan to pay for the care together. Whether the resident handles that with a financial planner, through Medicare or independently, she said having your financial ducks in a row is paramount.

“Once they have all their finances figured out, then we can help them get all the rest of the paperwork that needs to be done for the state,” Neary said.

Neary said Lutheran — and most like centers — has a dedicated staff to handle Medicaid claims for residents.

With all the paperwork and payments behind them, residents can move in and begin a new chapter of their lives.

But the health monitoring does not stop once the resident moves into facility. Both Lutheran and Smith Farms will casually and officially monitor their residents. Smith Farms has a recreation room where medical staff can check residents in a comforting environment, or, if the resident prefers, they’ll performs their checks in their rooms.

“We get a really good view of what they need when they’re here, and then

Communication vital for assisted living move

BY AARON ORGAN

aorgan@kpcnews.net Moving into an assisted living facility to begin a new chapter of life can be traumatic. It depends largely on how much communication occurred between the family and the residents before the move, officials say.

“Let’s face it, we all don’t want to admit that we’re declining in our health,” said Tricia Neary of Lutheran Life Villages in Kendallville. “So sometimes trying to go through that reality with them can be difficult. That’s why we have trained counselors to go through that process with them.”

Neary said she strongly recommends families have an open discussion with their aging loved one, so when the time comes to consider an assisting living center, it’s not a damning blow. That can be easier said than done sometimes, she said.

“There needs to be open dialogue, but sometimes people just do not want to talk about it. They don’t want to think about that they have to go and they have to live somewhere where there’s a stigma about it.”

Residents will commonly show disappoi xment, fear and anxiety, as well as uncertainty of how they’ll get moved and what will happen with their home and money, during the initial steps of committing to a facility, Julie Vose of Smith Farms in Auburn said. From coming to grips with the reality of their health status to the simple wonder if they’ll get along with their neighbor, residents experience a range of emotions.

Vose said that often a feeling of guilt on the part of the families and the confrontation with reality from the resident will come to a head during the initial steps of picking a facility.

13

AARON ORGAN

The dining room at Smith Farms Manor in Auburn offers residents on-demand dining, where residents can order a prepared-to-order cheeseburger or salad at any time. Assisted living centers provide residents with largely self-sufficient daily life, but with nursing and staff on-site to provide supervision or assistance with activities of daily life.

we can go back to the family and communicate with them,” Vose said.

“Our on-staff nurse really acts as a liaison between the resident and the family”

Lutheran Life, because it is a progressive facility with independent living, assisting living and health care, will suggest moving their residents as their daily living becomes affected.

The Family Practice & Orthopedic Care Center, PC Advanced Technology With Personalized Care

Within weeks, though, those feelings generally will transition into comfort and even relief — for both the family and the resident.

“What we see is, most people will come to us and say, ‘I wish we would have done this sooner,’” said Neary. “You have all of these amenities right at your fingertips, you really get to have a better quality of life, and that’s what we’ll work to convince the new people of when they come to visit us.”

Our Time

Richard J. Hartman, Jr., D.O., F.A.O.A.O. Board Certified Orthopedic Surgeon

Dr. Richard J. Hartman, Jr. is a Board Certified Orthopedic Surgeon who has provided over 11 years of Orthopedic Care to the community of Coldwater, Michigan and residents of Steuben, Hillsdale and Branch Counties. Dr. Hartman is a noted Examiner for the National Board for Orthopedics, has been awarded the title of Fellow of American Osteopathic Academy of Orthopedics, and was one of the first Orthopedic Surgeons in Michigan to incorporate Computer-Assisted Technology for the Total Knee Replacement and has spoken on this topic both nationally and internationally.

Dr. Hartman specializes in Total Knee and Total Hip Replacements, as well as Sports Medicine. He now offers Customized Patient-Specific Total Knee Replacements.

Dr. Hartman provides his surgical services with the following affiliations: - Cameron Memorial Hospital, Angola, Indiana - Hillsdale Community Hospital, Hillsdale, Michigan - The Community Health Center of Branch County, Coldwater, Michigan Dr. Hartman, along with his team of Orthopedic Professionals are available to discuss the right options for you.

Call or stop by for an appointment.

We are located at 410 N. Willowbrook Road, Coldwater, MI 49036 517-279-9559 • www.hartmansjoint.com

14

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September 28, 2012

Pets can provide joy, friendship

BY AMY OBERLIN

amyo@kpcnews.net A dog or a cat can be a comforting companion and a friendly distraction.

While they do require care, pets can also provide joy in a home where the residents are aging and there is less activity and interaction. â&#x20AC;&#x153;They say that pets in general help people,â&#x20AC;? said Dr. Jeanne Engel of All Paws and Claws in Angola. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It could potentially benefit anybody.â&#x20AC;?

Some statistics have shown that merely petting an animal can contribute to lower blood pressure. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Whether youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re 50, 60 or beyond, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re never too old to share your life with a pet and reap the countless healthy dividends they offer,â&#x20AC;? says Dr. Marty Becker in AARP magazine. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Just ask Flo Frum, an on-the-go 87-year-old from Oceanside, Calif., who adopted a miniature Schnauzer puppy a few months after Frank, her husband of almost 60 years, died from lung cancer.â&#x20AC;?

Six years later, Frum runs and plays outside with her dog, Buddy, and enjoys him as part of her family. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Friends and

family marvel at her energy and optimism and she quickly credits Buddy for her ageless outlook,â&#x20AC;? says the article.

Engel noted that a pet can provide a purpose. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It gives them something to be responsible for,â&#x20AC;? she said.

For some, however, limited physical abilities can make caring for a pet difficult.

Pets differ in their energy levels, temperaments and health care needs. Some expense could be incurred with animals that require professional grooming, for example, or large pets that consume a lot of food.

Becker describes puppies and kittens as â&#x20AC;&#x153;blobs of clayâ&#x20AC;? that can be trained and molded. And, there is the exuberant cuteness any baby can bring to a home. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a lot of older animals at the shelters,â&#x20AC;? said Engel. These animals are often already house trained and more docile, and will be grateful for a quiet home to relax in. Engel did note, though, that with age comes more medical issues, so there could be visits to the veterinarian and additional care.

Most cats or dogs live at least a decade.

For those who are concerned about their pet outliving them, Annette Ryan Kleinhenz, a columnist for The Herald Republican and

AMY OBERLIN

A dog like Puddles can cuddle, play and commiserate with his owner. The friendship and responsibility of a dog or cat can be a benefit to people as they get older, experts say.

member of the Steuben County Humane Society Board of Directors, suggests a will. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Name someone who has agreed to take your animal, and keep this name current â&#x20AC;&#x201D;

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people change in what they are willing to do,â&#x20AC;? Kleinhenz said. She also suggests leaving instructions and an appropriate amount of money for the animalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s care.

©KPC Media Group Inc. â&#x20AC;¢ kpcnews.com

September 28, 2012

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September 28, 2012

S M I T H FA R M S M A N O R

Smith Farms 1 bedroom fee....................$3,090 Veteran with 1 dependent as much as ...$1,564 Difference ..............................................$1,526 Smith Farms Fall Special ......................$500 OFF Out of pocket monthly living expense ....$1,026 *The VA Benefit is for those who qualify. All claims are processed by the local service officer. See Julie Vose for more details. Fall Special only valid through 10/31/12.

406 Smith Drive • Auburn, IN 46706

260-925-4800

www.smithfarmsmanor.com ©2012 Five Star Quality Care, Inc.

INDEPENDENT LIVING

ASSISTED SERVICES