New law makes it easier to save on prescription drug costs
MARCH 2010
• The Newspaper for Active Seniors •
Published by Los Cerritos Community Newspaper
Happy Hoofers bring their talent to Orange County senior centers
U
nder a new law, more Medicare beneficiaries could qualify for Extra Help with their Medicare prescription drug plan costs because some things no longer count as income and resources. The Extra Help is estimated to be worth an average of $3,900 per year. To qualify for the Extra Help, a person must be on Medicare, have limited income and resources, and reside in one of the 50 states or the Happy Hoofers: [l-r] Barbara-66 years young, B.J.-87, Marilyn-80, District of Columbia. Carol-67, Nancy, Donna-65, and Lu-84 take time out to pose for the To qualify for extra help, people camera. The group performs at civic events and community centers too. must meet certain resource and inwith glitzy, flashy costuming and The Happy Hoofers, a Senior come limits. The new Medicare Citizens group of talented dancprovide fun and entertaining dance law eases those requirements in ers has been performing in Orange musicals choreographed by Nancy Isbell of Orange County Dance and County for over twenty years. See Drugs Performing at senior social club or Theater Arts (OCDTA). CONTINUED ON 9 civic events, they are showcased [See Hoofers, Page 11]
Presbyterian Hospital’s A Day Away Adult Health Care Center celebrates 10th anniversary
By Linda Bock
Nearly 100 guests came to celebrate the 10th Anniversary of the S. Mark Taper Foundation A Day Away Adult Day Health Care Center in La Mirada. It was a major event for Presyterian Intercommunity Hospital (PIH) who sponsors the health center. The guests included PIH Foundation board members, hospital and center staff, volunteers, and caregivers. Supervisor Don Knabe’s office was represented, and LaMirada Mayor Susan Tripp and Whittier Councilman Joe Vinatieri were also on hand. A Day Away provides a beauti-
See A Day Away CONTINUED ON 9
Boost your Social Security income If you’re married or divorced, these little-known strategies can add thousands of dollars to your Social Security checks.
Every year, retirees pass up a whopping $10.1 billion in Social Security benefits—spousal benefits that most people don’t even know they’re entitled to. These benefits can increase your income and solve the big riddle that confronts so many of us when we first think about Social Security: whether to get immediate monthly income at 62 or wait and get a bigger check—maybe a lot bigger. If you hold off until you’re 66—which the government considers Full Retirement Age (FRA) for people born from 1943 through 1954—the monthly benefit will be one-third larger than if you take it at 62. Wait until age 70 and the check will be 76 percent larger. The longer you live, the more that will matter—and chances are, you’ll live a long time. The average 65-year-old can expect roughly 20
See Income CONTINUED ON 9
More inside:
[l-r] Dawn Marie Kotsonis, Executive Director of PIH Foundation and Community Benefit; Drew Sones, Chair of the IHC/PIH Board of Directors; Pat Bray, VP of Continuing Care; Andrea Avila, Assistant Deputy with Don Knabe’s office; Dr. Bashir Shaw, PIH and Leslie Ciletti, Program Director for A Day Away.
Community North
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Your Health
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Senior Sports
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Your Money
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Community South
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Government & You
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Social Security
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How can your home help ease your financial worries? Talk to the nation’s #1 retail reverse mortgage originator to learn more If you are 62 years of age or older and either own your home outright, or can pay off your existing mortgage with the proceeds, a reverse mortgage from Wells Fargo Home Mortgage can serve as a financial resource to help you: • Pay off your existing mortgage • Remodel or repair your home • Reduce your credit card debt • Meet your daily and monthly expenses • Cover your health care expenses
Call today to register for a seminar or schedule a complimentary consultation. When you call, be sure to ask about our reverse mortgage program that can help you purchase a home. Shawn Nikmehr Reverse Mortgage Specialist 877-443-0443 Tel 877-959-0959 Fax shawn.nikmehr@wellsfargo.com
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“Now that my wife and I are retired, we are always looking for additional revenue. When we were considering a reverse mortgage as a possible option for us, we talked to Shawn. He was very patient with us and explained the advantages and disadvantages in such a way that we could easily understand. At no time did he try to pressure us to make a decision. We appreciate the time he spent with us and would recommend him to our family and friends.” - Larry Caballero
appreciation event
2 HEALTHY LIVING • MARCH 2010
By Helen M. Brown
John of God Knights of Columbus #10623 and #3678 as well as the NLMUSD, Norwalk Chamber of Commerce, Senior Center, Woman’s Club, and Old Timers. We don’t want to overlook such generous individuals as Kurt & Melissa Anderson, Mary Jane McIntosh, Tom & Marie Jackson, Valdez, and a quickSocorro appearance of AssemblySanta and man Tony Mendoza. This is just a few of Mrs. Claus on the video. the many organizations, Businesses, and A warm individuals whowelcome open theirwas heartsgiven and by their yearcommissionto help the less Tak checkbooks Hamabataeachand fortunate to have a Merry Christmas. er Chair Aleida Alvarez. Games The Social Services Commission were played and raffle tickets were
COMMUNITY NEWS
It was a ‘Winter Wonderland’ Thursday evening, January 28, 2010 as Tak Hamabata, Director of Social Tony Mendoza. This is Services just a few and his assistant Veronica Garcia, along of the many organizations, Busiwith his wonderful staff welcomed and nesses, and individuals businesses, who open recognized all organizations, and individuals fromtheir Tam’scheckbooks Hamburgers their hearts and toeach Sheriff Leroy Baca for their year to help the less generosity fortunate and help with this year’s Angel Tree.
Angel Tree Foundation appreciation event
to have a Merry Christmas. The Social Services Commission and Senior Center Staff went
By Helen M. Brown It was a ‘Winter Wonderland’ Thursday evening, January 28, 2010 as Tak Hamabata, Director of Social Services and his assistant Veronica Garcia, along with his wonderful staff welcomed and recognized all organizations, businesses, and individuals from Tam’s Hamburgers to Sheriff Leroy Baca for their generosity and help with this year’s Angel Tree. Fifteen elementary schools, Nettie Waite Middle School, both Norwalk High Schools, and Joyland preschool all donated this year to this worthy project as did our two Fire Stations #20 and #115, American legion Post #359, Moose Lodge #1739, Elks #2142, Norwalk Community Coordinating Council, St. Linus and St. John of God Knights of Columbus #10623 and #3678 as well as the NLMUSD, Norwalk Chamber of Commerce, Senior Center, Woman’s Club, and Old Timers. We don’t want to overlook such generous individuals as Kurt & Melissa Anderson, Mary Jane McIntosh, Tom & Marie Jackson, Socorro Valdez, and Assemblyman
drawn. Everyone present received a 2009 Angel Tree pin, a snapshot,
even a quick appearance of Santa and Mrs. Claus on the video. A warm welcome was given by Tak TO ADVERTISE CALL 800-901-7211 Hamabata and commissioner Chair Aleida Alvarez. Games were played and raffle tickets were drawn. Everyone present received a 2009 Angel Tree pin, a snapshot, a thermos mug, and other nice gifts if they Mendoza spoke.to have He congratulated were lucky enough their raffle ticket drawn. the staff and volunteers on their Director Tak Hamabata graciously good work. “I represent eight cities introduced guests’ mayor Cheri Kelley, but Norwalk is the only whocounhas an vice-mayor Gordon Stefenhagen, cilmember Mike Mendez, and assemblyAngel Tree project such as this”. member Tonya Mendoza. Assembly It was happy and joyousmemevent ber Mendoza spoke. He congratulated the with canapés furnished staff anddelicious volunteers on their good work. “Iand represent eightby cities butNorwalk Norwalk is All the served the only who has anBand. Angel Tree project City Youth Music wassuch proas this”. vided the One band It wasby a happy and Way joyousTicket event with delicious canapés furnished served by and Lightning by Star and Lighting.
It was a wonderful evening filled with great music, delicious food, and wonderful friends. Thank you Tak, Veronica, Elizabeth, Aleida, and all who planned and made it possible. You are a delight to know and to work with.
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Web: www.healthylivingca.com Email: sales@healthylivingca.com Phone 562.407.3873 P.O. Box 788, Artesia, CA 90702
The One Way Ticket Band entertained attendees at the Angel Tree apprecation.
The One Way Ticket Band entertained attendees at the apprecation. Fifteen elementary schools, Nettie Waite Middle School, both Norwalk all Schools, out to and welcome the invited High Joyland preschool all guests this andyear over 150worthy volunteers to donated to this project as thisourspecial did two Fireannual Stationsevent. #20 and #115, American legion Post #359, that Moosewould Lodge A special video,
also be shown later at the February 2 council meeting. It showed the many gaily wrapped gifts and enthusiastic children as volunteers passed them out. There was even
and Senior Center Staff went all out to welcome the invited guests and over 150 a thermostomug, and other gifts volunteers this special annualnice event. if they were lucky enough to have A special video, that would also be their raffle drawn. shown later atticket the February 2 council meeting. It showed many gaily graDirector Tak the Hamabata
ciously introduced guests’ mayor Cheri Kelley, vice-mayor Gordon Stefenhagen, councilmember Mike Mendez, and assembly-member Tony Mendoza. Assembly member
EditorGeneral ManagerProduction ManagerStaff Writers-
Jerry Bernstein Linda Bock Chris Svensk Chris Callard Glen Creason Larry Caballero Monthly Five Course Wine Dinners • Rese President/PublisherBrian Hews
12741 Towne Center Dr., Ce (562) 865-2783 • www.art
Circulation 20,000, Healthy Living is published monthly and delivered to over 300 active senior residences, senior centers and community centers in LA and Orange counties.Published and copyrighted by Eastern County Newspaper Group,Inc. Reproduction in whole or part of any material in the Healthy Living without permission of the publisher is prohibited. © 2010
$10,000
MONEY MATTERS
Is downsizing the right move for you? By William Lee When my friends’ children finally graduated from college and moved out, their home of 30 years was suddenly just too big. The pool and spa just didn’t get used like they did in the past; it was really the kids and their friends who mostly used them anyway, and let’s face it, they require a lot of time and money for upkeep. Most of us want our retirement to be more than staying home, mowing the lawn and painting the house. Then, too, going up and down the stairs several times a day has just become too difficult for many. For most seniors, even in today’s market, they look around their homes and wonder if it’s a wise move to just leave so much equity in a house that is mostly empty. So what should they do? While downsizing may be on the minds of many seniors, most simply don’t know what options are available. Should I refinance? Should I sell? What about the market? Should I rent out a room? People simply don’t always know the answers. But there are options for seniors and many reasons why this market may work to their
advantage. Downsizing may well a terest rates. This is because lower Currently, there is a new $6500 good option for you. interest rates create more demand tax credit for current homeowners The most obvious benefit of for home purchases, driving prices purchasing a primary residence that downsizing to a smaller home is up. In this unique environment, we will be in effect until June 30, 2010. the ability to pocket some cash. So concurrently have low interest rates Eligible homebuyers must have even though the home you live in and depressed home values. If you lived in their current home for five may also have fallen in value, if you are an empty-nester (or are about to consecutive years of the past eight are truly going to downsize to a less be) and have thought about down- years, and the annual income caps expensive home, now is a golden sizing in the past, now would be a to qualify for the full tax credit are opportunity to pick up something good time to think about it again. $135K for single filers and $225K at true bargain prices. If you own There would be increased cash flow for joint filers. Which means many your present by buying of us can take advantage of this tax home or have a smaller break. "For most seniors, even in today’s substantial house that There is also a Home Equity market, they look around their equity, this would cost Conversion Mortgage (HECM) for homes and wonder if it’s a wise gives you a less. There purchase. This is an FHA insured move to just leave so much equity would chance to bebe in a house that is mostly empty." come mortfewer rooms reverse mortgage that enables segage free to clean and nior homebuyers age 62 or older to and perhaps you would purchase a new primary residence pull some have more and obtain a reverse mortgage in cash out of the downsize transac- free time. There would be lower simultaneous transactions with no tion to save or invest for retirement. utility bills and less stress. It’s cer- monthly mortgage payments. For more information William Even if you have to finance some tainly a real estate option to be conLee of Prudential California Real of the purchase price of your down- sidered. sized home, it could be many years Many people truly enjoy having Estate in Cerritos is co- hosting a for we will see mortgage interest less responsibility, a smaller work- free lunch seminar for seniors 62 or rates this low. In fact, as soon as load, increased cash flow and being older at the Panda Inn Restaurant, Hawaiian Gardens Casino 11871 Carson St. Hawaiian Gardens, CA 90716 (562) 860-5887 www.thegardenscas 2 Centerpointe Drive, LaPalma on the economy begins to recover and/ a lot less stressed because are necessary. All players must have positive ID.they No purchase Hawaiian Gardens Casino reserves the right to change or can GEGA 002016, promotions at any time. Must be 21 to enter casino. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit11:00 www.problemgambling 10th from or inflation ramps up, interest rates no longer overwhelmed by the de- Wednesday, March will likely move quickly upward. mands of a larger home. For many a.m.to 1:00 p.m. Shawn Nikmehr, a Then this window of opportunity couples, that extra means the ability mortgage specialist with Wells Farwill have closed forever. to take the vacation they’ve always go Bank will also host. William and Keep in mind that in a normal real dreamed of or may its means being Shawn will be available to answer estate environment, property values about to visit the grandkids more any questions. RSVP today at 877move inversely with mortgage in- often. 443-0443and ask for Shawn.
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HEALTHY LIVING • MARCH 2010
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4 HEALTHY LIVING • MARCH 2010
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Friends help celebrate 90th birthday of Dr. Rei Ozaki
He made house calls and treated countless patients who did not have the money to pay him or health insurance. “It was a time in healthcare when family doctors like myself DOWNEY-Friends, co-work- did everything in medicine for our ers, former patients and colleagues patients, from delivering their bagathered in Downey recently to bies to caring for their grandparents celebrate the 90th birthday of long- and doing surgery,” he recalled. time Downey Today, at physician age 90, Dr. Rei H. OzaOzaki still ki, MD, who works, getretired just ting up each a few years day to help ago from his Dr. Edelstein, practice with a Downey CareMore. eye physiThe surcian. His prise celwork and his ebration was Dr. Ozaki is quite surprised at his birthday love of his a bit over-celebration. rose garden whelming for seem to keep the 90-year-old doctor, a Downey a twinkle in his eye. “I’d still be pioneer who came to the city al- seeing my patients if I could,” he most 60 years ago as a young doc- added. “I miss them terribly.” tor eager to help his patients. It is not uncommon for Dr. Back in the 1950s, from his Ozaki to be greeted by his former office on 3rd Street in the city of patients, or their children or grand Downey, Dr. Ozaki delivered ba- children, all of whom he treated as bies, tended to the old and infirmed a family physician. and dedicated his professional life “He is an amazing doctor, the to caring for hundreds of Downey kind of doctor whose spirit for carfamilies. ing for patients was contagious to Each morning, he’d arrive at all of us,” recalled Sheldon S. ZinDowney Regional Hospital to per- berg, MD, a long-time Downey form surgery and then spent up to physician who founded CareMore 10 hour days in his office seeing and worked along side Dr. Ozaki. patients and finally returned to the He committed his life to making hospital in the evening to care for sure his patients were well and and visit patients. healthy. “
St. Irenaeus Parish reaches out to care center residents By Edna Ethington St. Irenaeus Youth Ministry and Health Ministry members are working together to reach out and bring
some love and care to residents of the five Care Centers which Health Ministry members visit each week. The five Care Centers that are visited are the Karlton Care Center in Anaheim, Sunrise Assisted Living in La Palma, and the Knott Care Center, the Knott Residential Manor and Anaheim Terrace Care Center in Buena Park. Youth Ministry Peacemakers are making 75 Valentine Cards for the Care Center residents, and Health Ministry members will be
asking for volunteers from the parish to select a person to visit and to deliver the Valentines during the month of February. Persons interested in participating in this program should come to the Patio Area after each Mass on the weekend of February 6 and 7 to select a person to visit. Health Ministry members will be taking names of participants and will have more details available about the program at that time. There will also be some handy hints and guidelines about visiting the residents in the Care Centers who have requested visits. For more information, contact Grace Walter Francis at 714-821-7776. Pictured are St. Irenaeus Youth Ministry Peacemakers with the Valentines they created for residents of Care Centers with the guidance of Youth Ministry Director Laura Benoit.
We‘re here to publish your stories! I’m Brian Hews, publisher of Healthy Living, and I want to extend an invitation to you. I want Healthy Living to be as interesting as possible to the Senior Community of Southern California. So, I’m inviting you to send us your photographs and stories and I’ll publish them in Healthy Living. We print 20,000 newspapers each month, so this will definitely help to get the word out about your club, event, special anniversary or birthday. You can email me or send them by mail and I’ll take care of the rest. If you have any thoughts about the types of articles you’d like to see in Healthy Living, please let me know. I look forward to hearing from you.
editor@healthylivingca.com or call 800-901-7211 www.healthylivingca.com
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HEALTHY LIVING • MARCH 2010
5
YOUR HEALTH Doctors who treat themselves may have fools for patients, but they look like geniuses compared with this reporter who tried to diagnose himself via the Internet. It seemed so simple. I Googled "foot pain," and up came two sites with neat little pictures of feet, arrows pointing to various parts and instructions to "click where it hurts." I clicked and voila! both sites said my pain - on the top and side of the foot, around the big toe - was probably from a bunion or gout. A podiatrist, recommended by a doctor friend, took about 37 seconds to figure out what was wrong. He shoved my big toe up and down, gave it a squeeze that made me shriek and said smugly, "We'll take some X-rays, and I'll show you what's causing your pain." A few minutes later, there it was on his computer screen: a bone spur, sticking up like a tiny, evil spike where the big toe joins the rest of the foot. The cause was arthritis of the big toe, which sounds ridiculous even to me. But it's real, a wearing out of the cartilage that normally protects the bones from rubbing against each other. I've always walked a fair amount - at least three miles, or five kilometers, a day, often twice that or more in recent years - and at 56, I guess it's catching up with me. Without realizing it, I've been wearing out
my feet. The podiatrist recommended shoes with stiff, rounded soles called rocker bottoms, to minimize bending of the joint. I figured out that I also needed lots of room in the toe, to avoid pressure on the spur. He said a cortisone shot into the joint might help. (It didn't.) He also suggested shoe inserts, orthotics, but I was skeptical because I had had knee surgery and feared that the inserts might throw my knees out of whack. Finally, he said I would eventually need surgery to remove the spur and shorten a bone. He said he could perform it right there in his office, and the sooner the better. At that point, if I'd been able to run, I might have. Instead, I nodded politely and said I'd think about surgery. I retreated to the Internet. Selfdiagnosis had been a lost cause, but at least it was noninvasive. And knowing the name of the ailment made a big difference. Among other things, the Web cheered me up
by revealing that hallux limitus is also called winkle-picker's disease (winkles are snails, and in England, winkle-pickers used to be a nickname for pointy shoes, if that makes any sense). Unfortunately, I also found out that it can sometimes be disabling. Three of the more useful links were Arthritis Practitioner (www. arthritispractitioner.com, search for hallux limitus), eMedicine (www. emedicine.com/orthoped, click on foot and ankle) and Foot Physicians (www.footphysicians.com, foot and ankle information). Some of the information echoed the podiatrist's advice about shoes, and I did find one type that seems to minimize the pain - clogs with firm soles and soft uppers. Doctor No. 2 was an orthopedic surgeon, who also wanted to operate. When I hesitated, he smirked and said, "When it hurts enough, you'll come back." Doctor No. 3 offered to inject a joint-lubricating drug into my toe. It sounded promising, but I chick-
Self-diagnosis by Internet? Tricky business
ened out, in part because the drug was approved for knees and not toes and in part because it would cost $2,800. Back on the Web, I found plenty of fellow sufferers. The patient forums fascinated me, especially the ones where people compared notes about surgery (www.healthboards. com, search hallux limitus; and www.foot.com, click on foot cafĂŠ, then message boards, and search hallux limitus). Some had good results, but others wished they had never had the operation. In addition, I have not been able to find a convincing report on success rates, which are hard to sort out because there are different types of hallux limitus and different operations. So I have been muddling along for about a year now, walking a bit less, biking a bit more, wearing frumpy shoes and hoping that even if my foot wasn't getting better, at least maybe it wouldn't get worse. Recently, at my internist's urging, I saw Doctor No. 4, a podiatrist who specializes in noninvasive treatments. He had some new ideas about shoes and padding to protect the spur. I told him I had always imagined that one day I'd put on a backpack and walk across continents, but lately was starting to give up on the idea. "You might still make it," he said. "Just start with a small continent."
There is such thing as a
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Wednesday March 10, 2010 11am-1pm
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Guest speaker -
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RSVP Today 877443-0443
6 HEALTHY LIVING • MARCH 2010
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Orange County Seniors fare well in Vacaville Senior Games
L a Annual P a l m California a First Winter Games in the Sierra Nevada for seniors
COMMUNITYNEWS
Volume 1, Issue 1 • November 11, 2009
• Hand delivered monthly to 5,000 La Palma homes; direct mailed to over 1,000 La Palma businesses and Chamber of Commerce members • www.lapalmanews.net •
The first annual Senior Winter games will take place at Dodge Ridge near Oakdale, in the Yosemite area March 11-14, 2010. Featuring winter sports competition for men and women 50-years-old and up in five-year groups, events will include Downhill: Giant Slalom, Slalom, Dual Slaloms; Snowboarding: Giant Slalom, Slalom, Dual Slaloms; Nordic (telemark): Giant Slalom, Slalom, Dual Slaloms; Cross Country: 5k and 10k Nordic (Classic and Skating races). The games will feature a festive, colorful, action-packed Winter Carnival atmosphere for competitors, spectators, friends and family. Dodge Ridge offers a great venue located in the newly built 16,000 sq. ft. Family Lodge. Enjoy the scenic mountain view from an elevation of 6,600 feet and take in a breath of fresh air. Call (209) 536 5307 for more information.
The annual Vacaville Senior Games were held January 17-21, 2010 and many OC Seniors are headed out to compete. Marge and George Knowland pictured above competed in the swimming events. Other events included Men’s Basketball, Ice Hockey, Women’s Basketball, Racquetball, Pickleball, Bowling and Tennis. Got to visitvacaville.com for more information.
Results - Tennis
erty & Larry Barclay Mixed Doubles 55-59 - 1st Place - Mike Hilton & Marilyn Duncan 2nd Place - Norm Todd & Gayle Todd Mixed Doubles 60-64 - 1st Place - Bert Sebillia & Marlene Seffern
Women’s 65-69 Singles Marilyn Duncan 1st – Gold Womens 55-59 Doubles Sue Huskey and Barabara Moore 1st
Gold Women’s 65-69 Doubles Lynn Gallagher and Tamie Helmstreit 1st Gold Womens 70-74 Doubles
25 TH A NNUAL L A P ALMA D AYS
Healthy activities for seniors on the go It is common knowledge that we live longer and are healthier today than we were only a few decades ago. Advances in medicine and technology can be a blessing and a curse. Many seniors need alternatives, depending on health and mobility, to stay happy and healthy. Seniors don't need extreme sports -they need activities that are geared towards them and their lifestyle. Things To Do - Getting Fit Studies show that seniors who exercise regularly and are careful in their nutritional needs live a longer life. Look at George Burns -- at his 95th birthday party, he said that he has a regimen of diet and exercise, and plans to live to see his 100th birthday. If we are to compete in things such as the World Senior Games, it makes sense to get into shape. Many seniors feel that they are too old, that their muscles are atrophied and will no longer be of good use to them. They worry that they might be injured in any strenuous activity. Nothing can be further from the truth. A good place to begin is with water therapy, gradually building up to swimming. It is one of the best activities that a senior can do to
increase fitness. Activities for seniors on the go should include an exercise program, and a lot of community activity centers provide this. Nearly every community not only has an exercise program, but other activities that are of interest to the senior citizen. Everything from bridge to bingo to walking tours is generally included in community activities. Other Things To Do Look to the web for your answers to these questions. Research your community website and find activities that might get your interest. A lot of communities have garden clubs. Most all seniors have some experience with gardening, and this is a good activity that can get you out of the house, meet new people, and share your knowledge with others. Go on walking tours, or join a local bridge club. Almost every hospital has a wellness center that gives special attention to seniors and exercise. There are many volunteer activities in the community. Help out with Special Olympics next year. Whatever your choice, stay active and live longer.
THE “OFFICIAL VETERAN’S DAY PARADE OF ORANGE COUNTY”
Jean Lauderdale and Joy Grahm 1st
60-64 Singles - 1st Place, Jack Coots 65-69 Singles - 1st Place, Tim Scott, 2nd Place, Louis McDonald 75-79 Singles - 1st Place, Jack Nordt 60-64 Doubles - 1st Place - Tim Scott & Jack Coots, 2nd Place - Gale Filter & Ray Ingle 65-69 Doubles - 1st Place - Louis McDonald & Jim Phillips 75-79 Doubles - 1st Place - Jack Nordt & Jim Phillips
James Walker and Stillson Judah 1st
Gold Mixed 55-59 Doubles James Walker and Marilyn Duncan 1st Gold Mixed 65-69 Doubles Art Williams and Georgina Williams 1st
ACTIVITIES
Results - Pickleball Women's 55 -59
Singles - 1st Place - Marilyn Duncan
Mens's 60-64 Singles - 1st Place - Mike Hilton, 2nd Place, Dan Bruce Men's 65-69 Doubles - 1st Place - Bill Dough-
HISTORICAL PRESERVATION & CULTURAL AWARENESS PROJEC
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Freedom Village in El Toro holds Open House for visiting guests
Jane Gray and Dotty Felten welcomed guests as they arrived for the Open House.
The Children's Choir from Saddleback Church performed for the residents and guests.
ArtMedica Doctor earns prestigious Board Certification from American Academy of Asthetic Medicine Dr. John S. Kim, M.D., after a lengthy training period, has been granted the prestigious title of Board Certification in Aesthetic Medicine by the American Academy of Aesthetic Medicine. Aesthetic Medicine is an emerging field of medicine in which medical science, medical procedures and medical expertise are utilized by physicians to enhance or beautify people’s outward appearance. Dr. Kim has been a certified user of laser techniques in his practice since 1996. He has received extensive training and experience in the use of lasers in medicine. Dr. Kim has been Board Certified in Family Medicine since 1991. He has undergone the rigorous process of Board Recertification twice; first in 1998 and the most recent in 2005. He is currently Board Certified in Family Medicine and has been awarded the distinguished position of Fellow of the American Academy of Family Physicians. He currently practices with his associate, Dr. Rosemarie Melchor, who is also Board Certified in Family Medicine and is interested in Women’s Health issues. In addition to his private practice in Family Medicine, Dr. Kim also he enjoys teaching medical students and resident physician in his role
as an Associate Clinical Professor at the School of Medicine at the University of California, Irvine. As a Board Certified physician in Aesthetic Medicine, Dr. Kim is especially qualified to treat many skin conditions using the latest medical and surgical knowledge. His interests include the following: -Treatment of Acne, Acne scars, Moles, Pigmented Lesions and Vascular lesions. -BotoxR Injections & Dermal Fillers (JuvedermR and RadiesseR). -Laser Hair Removal -Laser Skin Rejuvenation (AffirmR System) -Laser Liposuction (SmartLipoR System). Dr. Kim serves as the Medical Director of the ArtMedica Aesthetic Medical Clinic. The Board Certified associate physicians at ArtMedica are highly qualified specialists who can care for all of your Aesthetic Medicine and Plastic Surgery needs. Many of the procedures can be done conveniently at our clinic office or at our brand new, state of the art, Cerritos Surgery Center. Any inquiries can be forwarded to our offices at 11911 Artesia Blvd. Suite 101, Cerritos, CA., 90701. Our phone numbers are (toll free: 866-402-2218 or 562-402-5672).
HEALTHY LIVING • MARCH 2010
Celebration of Life It was an occasion like no other we have ever attended. It has been going on for a while, the diagnosis, the treatment, the constant reach into your soul for the fight of your life….for your life. Finally, when the sign indicated that the battle was ending, she wanted to celebrate her life! She wanted to see family and friends and tell them that she loved them, with all her heart….in person. So, we set the date! Armed with her best of friends, she planned the party…the menu, the flowers, the music, the colors and the décor. Little does she know that her friends have a ‘secret’ plan of their own. While the guest list was limited, the response was overwhelming. Everyone wanted to participate in the celebration of HER life. Ah, yes, the ‘Secret’ plan…..beautifully done skits of various musicals….. featuring our guest of honor! Mind you, we had professional voice coach, choreographer and producer, however, the performers were anything but professionals. They were friends who shamelessly sang, dance and laughed right along with her. She was so proud. Yes, the boxes of Kleenex were put to good use during the presentation of ‘This is your life’ put together by friends and family. But,
7
you see, this is HER day. She lived a great life! While her profession was teaching, watching her plan this extraordinary event taught us that her love of life was greater than the loss of it. We had the opportunity to say ‘thank you’ for the inspiration and the motivation she has instilled in all of us, knowing that she will be sorely missed. As she intended, we celebrated HER life! Visit our website www.healthylivingca.com Send us stories, anniversaries, birthdays, events! editor@healthylivingca.com.
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old. She was the first woman to be They were long time Norwalk resi- twenty ladies were present, includ- missed. 8 HEALTHY LIVING • MARCH 2010
Irvine IrvineSenior SeniorCenter Center Holds holds Volunteer Party VolunteerRecognition Recognition Party
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TheWhat American Association of University you say: Women hold annual scholarship fundraiser
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and career development; and an online tool to monitor participants’ progress. “I am excited that Lakewood Regional Medical Center and Tenet Healthcare have the foresight to invest in our future
nurses,” says Assistant Chief Nursing Officer and Versant Program Coordinator, Terri Newton. “The program can only improve the quality of care that this hospital provides.”
Soroptimists plan for The Irvinesenior senior center its annual volunteer recognition The Irvine center heldheld its annual volunteer recognition party this “Springtime in Paris” party this past December honoring the many fine folks who
past month honoring the many fine folks who help out at the two centers. "We could notthe dotwo manycenters. events with them", McLean, help out at "Weout could notsaid doDon many eventsdirecwith support from the community. People can Recently the local Soroptimists gathtor of the center, "it is the least we can do to have this party for them." out them", said Don McLean, director of the center, "it is the ered to plan for the upcoming 18th annual
support the event in numerous ways in-
cluding donating raffle prizes, sponsoring least weCarlo canNight do which to have party them." Monte will this be held on for
Soroptimists plan for “Springtime in Paris”
A fashion show for local schol- There shall be no barriers to full arships at Cerritos College was participation in this organization on is hea What organized by Cerritos La Palma the basis of gender, race, creed, age, al of AAUW. The money was sexual orientation, national An entire chorus oforigin, ives RetiRement DiStRibution SPecialiStS branch raised thru a very successful show disability, or class. and lunch held this past month. Our Mission Organisers were Nancy KawaAAUW advances equity for Providing Retirement Savings You perform the most important acts of service … caring for mura and Diane Merrick. Betty women and girls through advocacy, Plans for: Karnette, patients. former state education, and research. You representajust do it because of who you are. Your generosity tive, was the guest of honor who What We Do • Individuals gave a short and sweetshine speech The La Cerritos compassion as full you provide ourPalma patients with Branch, quality care. T of positive messages. founded in 1972, holds regular • Businesses It wasweek very and enjoyable to see a meetings with guest speakers all weeks, we want you to know how much and we apprec • Non-Profits lot of cute grand kids of member informational programming. There family andyour friends act as models for are opportunities to provide volWe value you. very classy clothes from an up scale unteer service at personal, local, Gary Chomiak, Owner buotique named Rascals to Rebels. community, regional and national Members themselves modeled styl- levels. We do fundraising events 562-405-5482 3751regional Katella Avenue ish clothes from another boutique for our national, and local called Glorym'LOU with great projects, as well. Los Alamitos 90720 Medical enthusiasm that was certainly very The AAUW Funds CA provides Investment Advisory Representative hortage contagious filling the attendees funds to advance education, rewww.losalamitosmedctr.com ProCalifornia Insurance License 0D25026 with a lot of fun and frolic. Raffles search and self-development for ned for and door prizes added a cherry on women and to foster equity and ng RNs Securities Offered Through Quest Capitol Strategies, Inc. Member FINRA SIPC top. The lunch was delicious and positive societal change. 25231 Paseo de Alicia, Suite 110 Laguna Hills, CA 92653 • (949) 830-4885 • www.questcapital.com nursing ambianceCELEBRATING in the El DoradoNATIONAL Park The Legal Advocacy Fund pro- MAY 6 NURSES WEEK AND of care Events Center was beautiful balmy vides funding and a support system ursing NATIONAL HOSPITAL and relaxing. Please contact Gail &forHEALTHCARE women seeking WEEK judicial redress MAY 7 will Ross at 562 926 7187 for informa- for sex discrimination in the worktter onal and tion on scholarships and member- place and academia. ” ship in AAUW . Our Local Scholarship Fund nly benOrganization Membership provides Scholarships to women at Front Row: Esther Chin, Pat Law, Ivana Royse Second Row: Ursula Pistaff, AAUW, founded in 1881, is Cerritos College who plan to conhe adds. otrowski, Gloria Kappe, Amy Dominguez, Rose Reets Back Row: Gayle open to all graduates who hold an tinue studies at University level and gorous Reidy, Sandy Fikse, Kathy Lovell, Marcia Verkaik, Louzana Kaku. Front Row: Esther Chin, Pat Law, Ivana Royse Second Row: Ursula Piotrowski, Glo- associate, baccalaureate or higher recognition for outstanding perforurria Kappe, Amy Dominguez, Rose Reets Back Row: Gayle Reidy, Sandy Fikse, Kathy f the degree from a regionally accredited mance. Lovell, Marcia Verkaik, Louzana Kaku esidency known for throwing a great party great way for the attendees to see college or university. Fun and fellowship are also vincludes: for an even greater cause. This year we’re also looking for people AAUW encourages diversity and tal parts of Branch life as we get to theme, we are trying to capture all the fun who supports local charities.” -led who their expertise. Perhaps has adopted the following: In prin- know each other through our many “Aexcitement great dealofof goes into and an work evening in The City “Ascan fordonate donations, we accept aturLights without the long plane ride.” a handyman will small,” donate a Ivana couple hours theof event,” said co-chairman Ivana items nt and large and ciple and practice, AAUW values Interest Groups, activities and netThough Soroptimists raise money of work or someone who is an expert at cliniRoyse, “but it is truly a labor of “Businesses and commuand seeks a diverse membership. working. all year long, Monte Carlo Night is their added. Photoshop is willing to spend a few hours ines; love. We work hard so that our nity members have donated gift eceptors major fundraiser. Funds raised by the helping someone learn the program. guests can have amany special evening. cards,“Ifayou staythink in aabout hotelit,”orPat a condo, club go to support local charities ide persaid, our ‘Springtime in Paris’ including Su Casa (a shelter for battered TVs, and even barbeque tools. All bedside With “everyone has something they can donate womenwe andare children) tryingand to Family captureGuidall debrief- theme, items, unless they’re antiques, need to a good cause. And we hope everyone ance Center. ns that the fun and excitement of an evetowill be consider new. This yearuswe’re joining for thisalso wonderful these difficult economic times, um for ning “In in The City of Lights without looking for people who can donate event.” charities face even greater needs as local among long plane ride.” are now available. To donate, families undergo additional stresses due their Tickets expertise. Perhaps a handyts; men- the to economic worries,” president Pat Law Though Soroptimists raise sponsor, or buy tickets, call Co-chairperman will donate a couple hours of provide added. all “This means need even greater work son Ivana Royse at who 562 925 1566. year long,weMonte Carlo upport money or someone is an expert Night is their major fundraiser. at Photoshop is willing to spend a Funds raised by the club go to sup- few hours helping someone learn Sign up to port many local charities includthe program. ing Su Casa (a shelter for battered “If you think about it,”receive Pat said, women and children) and Family “everyone has something they can Guidance Center. donate to a good cause. And we “In these difficult economic hope everyone will consider jointimes, charities face even greater ing us for this wonderful event.” needs as local families undergo adTickets are now available. To ditional stresses due to economic donate, sponsor, or buy tickets, call COUPONS worries,” president Pat Law added. Co-chairperson Ivana Royse at 562 “This means we need even greater 925 1566. sent right to
a portion of the event, and buying tickets.” March 6, 2010, at 7 PM at the Cerritos “Sponsorships range from $100.00 to Center for the Performing Arts. This $5000.00 and include tickets for Monte year’s theme is “Paris in Springtime.” Carlo Night as well as additional benefits Tickets are only $75.00 per person and such as signage at community. the event,” Pat exRecently the local include a catered dinner,Soroptimists raffle prizes and support from the plained. “And the signage is a great way gathered plan for the upcoming gaming. to The Artesia-Cerritos SoropPeople can support the event in local for the attendees to see who supports timists are known forCarlo throwing a great 18th annual Monte Night numerous ways including donating charities.” party will for anbe even greater cause. 6, which held on March “As for donations, we accept items raffle prizes, sponsoring a portion “A great deal of work goes into the large and small,” Ivana added. “Business2010, at 7 PM at the Cerritos Cenof the event, and buying tickets.” event,” said co-chairman Ivana Royse, es“Sponsorships and community members have donated ter“but foritthe Performing This is truly a labor of Arts. love. We work range from gift cards, a stay in a hotel or a condo, hard so that our a special $100.00 to $5000.00 and include theme is guests “Pariscan in have Springs Depart- year’s TVs, and even barbeque tools. All items, evening. With our in Paris’ s, the time.” Tickets are‘Springtime only $75.00 per tickets Monte Carlo Night unless for they’re antiques, need to beas new. in 2008 person and include a catered dinwell as additional benefits such pulation as signage at the event,” Pat exricans. ner, raffle prizes and gaming. The plained. “And the signage is a to reach Artesia-Cerritos Soroptimists are need for e board. ing tered opulaP.O. Box 1219 Artesia, CA 90702
comfor
caring excellence.
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HEALTHY LIVING • MARCH 2010
htm.) The Payoff: Sandra gets $650 a month. Why not $1,000—half of Tom’s benefit? Because she’s only 62. No matter whose earnings record it’s based on, the amount you get depends on your age when you apply for it. The moneymaking lesson here is to fully explore your choices. Use Social Security’s online calculator (at www.socialsecurity.gov/OACT/ anypia/anypia.html) to play with different assumptions, or make an appointment to visit your local Social Security office. Don’t hesitate to ask agency staff to check with supervisors if they’re unfamiliar with these seldom-used strategies.
more years of life. Among that same group, 41 percent of women and 28 percent of men will live to age 90—and half of those women will make it to 95, as will one-third of the men. Fortunately, spousal benefits offer a way around the riddle. If you’re married—or if you’re divorced after ten years of marriage and haven’t remarried—you can claim a benefit not only on your own work record but also on your spouse’s. No, you can’t collect those benefits simultaneously. In some instances, however, you can get them consecutively: you can file first to get a spousal benefit, and then DRUGS later to get your own benefit after it Continued from page 1 has grown as big as possible. To see how spousal benefits work, two ways. First, it eliminates the consider these sample situations. cash value of life insurance from Two-Income Couples counting as a resource. Second, it The Scenario: Bob is 66; Kathy eliminates the assistance people reis 62. Based on their work records, ceive from others to pay for houseeach qualifies for a $2,000 monthly hold expenses, such as food, rent, benefit at their FRA. Kathy plans to mortgage or utilities, from countfile now for her own benefit, so it’ll ing as income. There also is anbe reduced to $1,500 (for details other important “twist” in the law. on how your age affects the size of The application for extra help can the benefit you receive, go to www. now start the application process ssa.gov/retirement/1943.html). Bob for Medicare Savings Programs intends to wait until he’s 70 so that -- state programs that provide help his benefit will grow to $2,640. with other Medicare costs. These The Better Way: Normally, when programs help pay Medicare Part B you apply for your own benefit, the (medical insurance) premiums. For Social Security Administration also some people, the Medicare Savings looks at your spousal benefit and, Programs also pay Medicare Part A if it’s bigger, adds the difference. (hospital insurance) premiums, if But when Kathy files for Social any, and Part A and B deductibles Security, Bob should apply only and co-payments. for a spousal benefit, something Who can get Extra Help? he can do because he has reached Anyone who has Medicare can FRA. “He must make it clear on get Medicare Part D prescription the form that he’s restricting the drug coverage. Some people with application to the spousal benefit,” limited income and resources are says Social Security Administration eligible for Extra Help to pay for spokesperson Mark Lassiter. “That the costs–monthly premiums, ankeeps his own benefit growing nual deductibles, and prescription 8 percent a year for four more co-payments–related to a Medicare years.” prescription drug plan. To qualify The Payoff: As a spouse, Bob for Extra Help: gets 50 percent of the $2,000 * You must reside in one of the Kathy would be entitled to at 66, 50 states or the District of Columan extra $1,000 a month for four bia. years. At age 70 he can switch to * Your resources must be limhis own $2,640 benefit. According ited to $12,510 for an individual or to the Boston College Center for $25,010 for a married couple living Retirement Research, in any given together. Resources include such year about 700,000 couples stand to things as bank accounts, stocks, and gain from using this approach. bonds. We do not count your house One-Income Couples and car as resources; and The Scenario: Tom, 64, * Your annual income must be works full-time; Sandra, 60, is a limited to $16,245 for an individual homemaker. His Social Security or $21,855 for a married couple livbenefit at 66 will be $2,000 a ing together. Even if your annual month. He’d like to wait until he’s income is higher, you still may be 68 to apply, which will bump the able to get some help. benefit to $2,320. But he’s not sure he and Sandra can manage that long without it. The Better Way: At 66, Tom should apply for his $2,000 monthly benefit, which allows Sandra to file for a spousal benefit. Tom can then— surprise—voluntarily suspend his www.healthylivingca.com benefit (at FRA, he has that option) so it will keep growing. Meantime, Send us stories, anniversaries, Sandra continues receiving her birthdays, events! spousal benefit. (For details, go to editor@healthylivingca.com. www.ssa.gov/retire2/yourspouse.
Visit our website
A DAY AWAY
Continued from page 1 ful, welcoming facility for caregivers and participants. “We wanted families to stay together. We wanted them to preserve their assets,” said Pat Bray, VicePresident of Continu-
9
that she was overwhelmed and at her wits’ end and he recommended A Day Away. Says Virginia, “I felt safe. Staff is wonderful. We found answers and we were not alone.” Irv Kornblum didn’t mind driving 30 minutes from his home in Montebello to bring his wife Mar-
Staff of A Day Away Adult Day Care Center ing Care for PIH. “We also knew it would be safe” Until you’ve been a caregiver to an aging parent or a spouse who may no longer remember your name, it’s truly difficult to understand the toll it takes on the entire family, but most especially, the caregiver. When the diagnosis is Alzheimers or other form of mental incapacity, there is additional stress on the family because of the need for constant monitoring of the patient. A Day Away Adult Day Health Care Center focuses on people requiring continuous supervision and care and whose caregivers may need to work, care for others, or are simply exhausted. A Day Away cares for those affected by Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, traumatic brain injury, stoke and other forms of memory loss and dementia. The average participants are about 80 years old, but some of the youngest participants are in their 20’s. The stories are all very similar. Virginia Espejo’s mother, 86 year old Erma Mendoza, has Alzheimer’s and has been participating in A Day Away for six years. Virginia says that she learned about the adult daycare center from their family physician. She says he could see
gie, who suffered from dementia, to A Day Away. She enjoyed being there and Irv was able to run errands and take care of household chores. “If it wasn’t for A Day Away, I don’t know what we would have done,” Kornblum said. “A Day Away was my salvation and I’m glad I found it.” A Day Away offers a social program every day which includes tasty meals and snacks, caring supervision, assistance with such personal activities as eating, walking, toileting, and personal care. There are support groups for participants, caregivers, and families. The program includes games, arts, crafts, and pet therapy. “Little Girl,” a greyhound who once was a racing dog, comes to visit on a regular basis. There is also a medical program model for participants whose doctors feel it necessary. This program includes RN nursing care, medication management, PT, speech therapy and more. There is assistance with transportation. Mostly, A Day Away offers a place for people to continue to enjoy their lives in a safe, caring environment. For more information, call 562-902-5305 or email ADayAway@pih.net.
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10 HEALTHY LIVING • MARCH 2010
Stopping Elder Abuse:
Alzheimer’s Association Creates Prevention Council
A gifted artist, retired teacher and mother of four, Diane, aged 65, has Alzheimer’s disease. Diane is also a victim of abuse. Her story is not uncommon – as many as 10% of the nation’s senior adult population experience physical, psychological, and financial abuses. It
robs them of their health, security, independence, dignity – even compromising home, property and savings. Elder abuse is a crime that frequently goes undetected and is severely under-reported. In Orange County, the numbers of people affected add up quickly. With nearly 300,000 people aged 65 or older in the county (2000 United States Census data); the number of those at risk for abuse is great – and growing. The Or-
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ange County Elder and Dependent Adult Abuse Registry received nearly 5,500 reports of elder and dependent adult abuse in 2005, an increase of 127% since 1994. Research indicates that only a fraction of cases are officially reported. For every report of elder mistreatment made to Adult Protective Services, an estimated five cases go unreported. Because Diane has a memory loss disorder, she is statistically at even greater risk for abuse or neglect. A 2009 study revealed that nearly 50% of people with dementia experience some kind of abuse and females are abused at a higher rate than males. As elders become more physically frail, they’re less able to stand up to bullying and or fight back if attacked. They may not see or hear as well or think as clearly as they used to, leaving openings for unscrupulous people to take advantage of them. Mental or physical ailments may make them more trying for the people who provide their care. In 1998, the United States General Accounting Office reported that one in three California nursing homes was cited for serious or potentially life-threatening care problems. In response to these sobering facts – and due to the recent California state budget cuts that severely diminished the scope of the programs intended to monitor elder abuse and neglect, the Alzheimer’s
Association, Orange County Chapter created the Alzheimer’s Association Elder Abuse Council. This timely abuse prevention program is comprised of families, administrators from residential care facilities and subject-matter experts from throughout the county. “Timing is everything and, in this case, our Elder Abuse Council is debuting when it is needed most,” said Jim McAleer, President/CEO of the Alzheimer’s Association, Orange County Chapter. Funding for local Long-Term Care Ombudsman programs has been cut due to the California state budget crisis, curtailing the investigations of residential care facility abuse cases. These programs, now limited, are the only advocacy services safeguarding residents of assisted living facilities from abuse and neglect. "California’s senior citizens not only bear a disproportionate share of reductions in health and home care services, but they are particularly vulnerable to abuse," said Assemblymember Dave Jones. With fewer protections in place for seniors living in residential care facilities or adult day care or receiving assistance from homebased caregivers, the spectrum for potential abuse is expansive, “It is another unfortunate ramification of our struggling economy that deeply impacts families with elderly members,” said McAleer.
Preserving the CLASS Act is vital to senior care By Larry Minnix
As the healthcare debate continues to unfold, a little-known but important provision in the Democrats' reform package that would fill a huge gap in our nation's health insurance system is attracting renewed attention. This provision -- the Community Living Assistance Services and Supports Act, or CLASS Act for short -- would create a national long-term care insurance program. It couldn't come at a better time. Roughly 10 million Americans are currently in need of long-term services and supports. That number is expected to increase by half over the next 10 years. Yet few Americans have insurance plans that cover such care. Many people assume that Medicare will take care of any long-term services and supports they may need down the road. Unfortunately, that's not the case. Medicaid -- the government health-insurance program for the poor -- will pay for long-term care, but seniors and the disabled would have to impoverish themselves in order to qualify. The CLASS Act would create [See Class, Page 11]
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[Class, From page 10] a voluntary insurance program that would pay out cash benefits in the event a beneficiary became too disabled to perform normal daily activities, like getting dressed. Those who elected to participate would have premiums deducted from their paycheck. By providing benefits in cash -- an estimated $50 to $75 a day -- the CLASS program would ensure that beneficiaries could go on leading productive, independent lives. And unlike some forms of insurance, CLASS benefits would continue for as long as a person's need persists -- whether that's three months or a lifetime.
11 get Office (CBO) and other experts have found that the CLASS plan will meet this requirement. In fact, the CBO estimates that the program would actually lead to about $72 billion in net deficit reduction over the next 10 years. The CLASS provision would help millions of Americans afford vital care.Establishing this voluntary and fiscally responsible program now, under the healthcare reform umbrella, will ensure that America's most vulnerable get the care they need now and into the future. Larry Minnix is President and CEO of the American Association of Homes and Services for the Aging. HEALTHY LIVING • MARCH 2010
It's important to note that this money is not designed to replace private insurance. CLASS benefits simply provide a financial backstop to protect against disability- or ageinduced impoverishment. Beneficiaries would be expected to have supplemental private coverage as well. Other countries have found that government-sponsored long-term care insurance actually stimulates the purchase of private policies. In France, sales of private "wrap around" policies have jumped 15 percent annually since lawmakers there created a long-term care program. Germany saw a similar jump in private insurance sales after it created its long-term care plan.
If these countries' experiences are any indication, the CLASS program would serve as a lowcost "foothold" that makes private coverage more affordable for those who might typically be scared away from long-term care policies by high prices. Critics of the CLASS program claim that it will add to the federal deficit. But that's not the case. Because people would pay premiums to participate, the CLASS Act's benefits would be funded exclusively by beneficiaries'premiums and earned interest, not general tax dollars. The reform package also mandates that the program remain solvent for 75 years. The Congressional Bud-
Social Security adds 38 New Compassionate Allowance Conditions Expansion will speed benefits to thousands of Americans with disabilities. Michael J. Astrue, Commissioner of Social Security, today announced that the agency is adding 38 more conditions to its list of Compassionate Allowances. This is the first expansion since the original list of 50 conditions - 25 rare diseases and 25 cancers - was announced in October 2008. The new conditions range from adult brain disorders to rare diseases that primarily affect children. The complete list of the new Compassionate Allowance conditions is attached. “The addition of these new conditions expands the scope of Compassionate Allowances to a broader subgroup of conditions like early-onset Alzheimer’s disease,” Commissioner Astrue said. “The expansion we are announcing today means tens of thousands of Americans with devastating disabilities will now get approved for benefits in a matter of days rather than months and years.” Compassionate Allowances are a way of quickly identifying diseases and other medical conditions that clearly qualify for Social Security and Supplemental Security Income disability benefits. It allows the agency to electronically [Hoofers, From page 1] One of the dancers is Carol Glenn Shallin. Carol was a “Mapes Skylite” chorus girl in Reno many, many years ago and then toured with her own dance act across the country. She performed as an actress and dancer in Little Theater in both San Francisco, her hometown and Hollywood. Carol has worked both sides of the camera (acting in several horror films where she was a real scream) and is a member of SAG, AGVA and NABET. Since retiring and moving to Laguna Woods from Las Vegas 2 years ago, Carol has been active in various local shows including, “Brush Up Your Shakespeare,” “Celebrat-
target and make speedy decisions for the most obviously disabled individuals. In developing the expanded list of conditions, Social Security held public hearings and worked closely with the National Institutes of Health, the Alzheimer’s Association, the National Organization for Rare Disorders, and other groups. "The diagnosis of Alzheimer's indicates significant cognitive impairment that interferes with daily living activities, including the ability to work," said Harry Johns, President and CEO of the Alzheimer's Association. "Now, individuals who are dealing with the enormous challenges of Alzheimer's won't also have to endure the financial and emotional toll of a long disability decision process." “This truly innovative program will provide invaluable assistance and support to patients and families coping with severely disabling rare diseases,” said Peter L. Saltonstall, President and CEO of the National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD). “On behalf of those patients and families, I want to thank Commissioner Astrue and his enthusiastic team for creating and now expanding a program that will have a direct impact on the quality of life of thousands of individuals." “The initiative not only assists those whose applications are quickly processed, but also assists ing the Romantics (Poets),” as Cher in “Aquarius to Woodstock,” Sybil, a con artist, in “Senior Follies,” Mavis in “The Whistler- Mavis Cameron Disappears” in Radio Show Theater, as Marilyn in “Gumshoe Revue,” Most recently as Penelope, the lead, an American actress married to an English vicar in “See How They Run.” Gregory Sierra, (Barney Miller, Sanford and Son) had a very funny part in it as a Cockney sergeant. The OCDTA is located at 2214 Newport Blvd., Costa Mesa, Ca., telephone (949) 646-4234. The program director is Lorrie Collins; she can be contacted at (714) 968-7897. The troupe needs one month in advance to schedule a show.
those whose applications need more time and attention from SSA adjudicators,” said Marty Ford, Co-Chair, Social Security Task Force, Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities. “We are pleased to see today's expansion and look forward to working with Commissioner Astrue on further expansion of this decision-making tool and other ways to expedite determinations and decisions for disability claims.” “We will continue to hold hearings and look for other diseases and conditions that can be added to our list of Compassionate Allowances," Commissioner Astrue said. “There can be no higher priority than getting disability benefits quickly to those Americans with these severe and life-threatening conditions.” Social Security will begin electronically identifying these 38 new conditions March 1. For more information about the agency’s Compassionate Allowances initiative, go to www.socialsecurity.gov/compassionateallowances. New Compassionate Allowance Conditions 1. Alstrom Syndrome 2. Amegakaryocytic Thrombocytopenia 3. Ataxia Spinocerebellar 4. Ataxia Telangiectasia 5. Batten Disease 6. Bilateral Retinoblastoma 7. Cri du Chat Syndrome
8. Degos Disease 9. Early-Onset Alzheimer’s Disease 10. Edwards Syndrome 11. Fibrodysplasia Ossificans Progressiva 12. Fukuyama Congenital Muscular Dystrophy 13. Glutaric Acidemia Type II 14. Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis (HLH), Familial Type 15. Hurler Syndrome, Type IH 16. Hunter Syndrome, Type II 17. Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis 18. Junctional Epidermolysis Bullosa, Lethal Type 19. Late Infantile Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinoses 20. Leigh’s Disease 21. Maple Syrup Urine Disease 22. Merosin Deficient Congenital Muscular Dystrophy 23. Mixed Dementia 24. Mucosal Malignant Melanoma 25. Neonatal Adrenoleukodystrophy 26. Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinoses, Infantile Type 27. Niemann-Pick Type C 28. Patau Syndrome 29. Primary Progressive Aphasia 30. Progressive Multifocal Leukoencephalopathy 31. Sanfilippo Syndrome 32. Subacute Sclerosis Panencephalitis 33. Tay Sachs Disease 34. Thanatophoric Dysplasia, Type 1 35. Ullrich Congenital Muscular Dystrophy 36. Walker Warburg Syndrome 37. Wolman Disease 38. Zellweger Syndrome
12 HEALTHY LIVING • MARCH 2010
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Whittier Hospital Medical Center and Prospect Medical present the following events for members of the Golden Years Senior Club
If you are not a member we will sign you up the same day. Membership is FREE!
MARCH 10 - 10 a.m. Picture Frame Making Free supplies
APRIL 23 - 10 a.m.
“Alzheimer, My Mom, My Journey”
MAY 7 - 10 a.m.
Video presentation
Mother’s Day Celebration
Have a FREE photo taken by a professional photographer
All events held at the
Whittier Hospital Activity Center 9210 Whittier Blvd., Whittier, CA 90605
For reservations please call
1-800-613-4291 To find out more about Prospect Medical and obtain free physician referrals in your area call
888-619-5900
or visit www.prospectmedical.com