Living 50 Plus - March 2015

Living50 plus

leader publications • MARCH 2015

Reunited

Dowagiac man revisits piece of his past

Nothing to sneeze at Meet new people

Doctors urge everyone to take allergies seriously

Event to showcase opportunities at Niles Senior Center

Page 2

Living 50 Plus • March 2015

scale Beyond the

What you need to know about Diabetes risk factors SUBMITTED (STATEPOINT) When it comes to Type II diabetes, many only consider weight when examining their risk. Diabetes is complicated however, and risk factors are numerous.

Some of the confusion is potentially reflected in statistics. From 1980 through 2011, the number of Americans with diagnosed diabetes more than tripled, from 5.6 million to 20.9 million, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and millions more have prediabetes or are undiagnosed.

On the bright side, cutting-edge research has uncovered strategies for avoiding, controlling and even reversing diabetes.

“It’s tempting to think that there’s

not much you can do except take medication and hope for the best,” said George L. King, M.D., Chief Scientific Officer at Joslin Diabetes Center, Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School and author of the new book, “The Diabetes Reset.” “However, anyone can improve their body’s response to insulin and its ability to metabolize glucose in the blood.”

Each individual’s glucose control problems are unique, which is why King offers a range of evidence-based, diabetes-fighting strategies in his book. Here he shares a few: Diet — A recent study by Dr. King and his Joslin colleagues has shown that insulin sensitivity, glucose metabolism and type 2 diabetes risk can all be significantly improved by switching to a low-

fat, high-fiber diet consisting of 70 percent carbohydrates, 15 percent fat and 15 percent protein, including 15 grams of dietary fiber for every 1,000 calories consumed.

This dietary approach, known as the Rural Asian Diet, is easy to maintain, as it doesn’t call for restricting calories or totally avoiding any particular food group.

While many diabetes experts promote restricting carbohydrates, this diet distinguishes between refined carbohydrates and complex carbohydrates, which are high in fiber, and will be converted into blood glucose much more slowly.

Weight Loss — If your BMI is above 25 and you’re able to reduce your body weight by 5 to 7 percent, you can reduce your insulin resistance and improve your glucose metabolism. Be advised,

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cles’ ability to oxidize fats, glucose and other fuels, while also helping you lose weight.

Sleep — There is mounting evidence that lack of sleep can contribute to insulin resistance and possibly causes damage to the pancreas, putting you at heightened risk for prediabetes and type 2 diabetes. Attempt to get seven to eight hours of high-quality sleep every night to improve insulin sensitivity.

Whether you have diabetes or not, understanding this disease and how it can be controlled can significantly improve your overall health.

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many doctors feel that BMI is of limited value in determining a diabetes risk because it doesn’t distinguish between fat and lean tissue or between different types of body fat. Abdominal fat is the most dangerous type of fat in terms of diabetes risk, so many doctors use waist circumference as an additional measurement.

Exercise — Your muscles can lose insulin sensitivity due to inactivity. This can be largely reversed through a combination of 150 minutes of aerobic activity per week plus weekly strength training sessions. Together, these activities can increase your mus-

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Page 3

Living 50 Plus • March 2015

A longtime reunion Former Rudy employee recalls career with former Dowagiac stalwart

By TED YOAKUM ted.yoakum@leaderpub.com

W

hen the exterior renovation work at the Business Center of Southwestern Michigan uncovered the giant “Rudy” lettering that signified the builder and former occupant of the 34-acre facility last fall, Dowagiac’s Andy Kruger was one of the many local residents who took notice.

Passing by the signage on a regular basis while picking up his daughter Kai from preschool, Kruger was interested in the once obscured landmarker.

He was in for a bigger shock when he eventually relayed the story to his father, Adolph Kruger.

“I saw it everyday in the fall,” Andy said. “Then one day he mentioned, ‘oh yeah, I did that.’”

Upon hearing that, the junior Kruger rounded up his two daughters and his father for a reunion nearly 50 years in the making — between the craftsman and his work.

Seeing his creation for the first time in so many years brought back a lot of memories for Adolph, of his years of service as a mason and later as draftsman within the confines of the famous Dowagiac factory. Kruger had worked for Rudy Manufacturing since he was still in high school, staying on at the facility until his retirement in 2005, even through several changed ownership changes.

Finding employment at the factory alongside his father, Adolph Sr., was one of the first lucky breaks that the Germanimmigrant found up to that point in his life. Born in German settlement in Poland, the Kruger family was forced to leave their home in 1943 when the Soviet army invaded the country during their slow march west toward Nazicontrolled Berlin.

“Back then, if you were German and the Soviets found you, you were dead,” Adolph Kruger said.

Fleeing inside a covered wagon, Kruger and his family endured a harrowing trip to safety,

“

“Everyone here was so friendly.

I never had it so good until we came to this country.”

he said. His younger brother sadly didn’t survive the journey, freezing to death before they could find refuge. The family transported his lifeless body for three days before they finally arrived somewhere they could purchase a casket and bury him.

Even after the end of World War II in 1945, the Krugers lived as refugees, until the St. John’s Lutheran Church in Dowagiac sponsored their trip across the Atlantic in 1951, before settling in the Grand Old City, building a cabin on Downey Street located on the land next to where Kruger still lives today.

“The old high school on Oak Street was torn down around that time,” Andy said. “My father got

—Adolph Kruger all the wood from the demolition, and built that house with it.”

Despite not knowing English, and bearing the first name of what was once the country’s sworn enemy, Adolph said he and his family were embraced by the community, and the young man quickly made friends.

“Everyone here was so friendly,” he said. “I never had it so good until we came to this country.”

His father, a skilled mason, eventually found work with Rudy Manufacturing as one of their in-house builders. The Andy joined his namesake at the company, working there parttime after school.

After a two-year stint in the Army from 1963-1965, Kruger returned to Rudy, working as a mason during the summer months and as a draftsman during the winter. He and his father were among those responsible for building much of the factory’s expansions through the years, he said.

In 1965, Adolph was put in charge of designing the infamous Rudy sign near the front of the factory by owner Bill Collins. It took him only two tries to get the design up to his boss’ famed high standards, he said.

“I laid out the design on the ground the night before,” Adolph said. “[Collins] saw it the next morning and said ‘that’s too small, we need something bigger.’ The next day, I laid it out again with larger letters, and he told me, ‘that way is just perfect.’”

The installation of the 6 foot lettering was another father-son job, Adolph said.

In 1968, Adolph became a fulltime draftsman for the company, working there until his retirement 10 years ago.

“He’s still my go-to general contractor,” Andy said. “He knows how to do everything.”

Page 4

Living 50 Plus • March 2015

Recommended immunizations for those over 50 SUBMITTED (METRO) Routine immunizations can keep people safe and healthy. Certain vaccinations can prevent diseases from producing symptoms, while others can lessen the duration of an illness or make conditions less severe.

Vaccination schedules become a way of life for parents to young children. But vaccinations aren’t just for kids, and adults should keep tabs on their immunization histories to ensure they’re up-to-date with vaccinations for their particular age group and lifestyle.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention warns that the elderly are more likely to die of a vaccine-preventable disease than other age groups. The immune system begins to decline as we age, so the body can benefit from the disease-fighting boost provided by vaccinations. Individuals at any age should discuss immunizations with their doctors, but it’s a particularly important conversation for those age 50 and older.

Vaccine schedules and recommendations may vary depending on where a person lives, but the following immunization recommendations are offered courtesy of the CDC. • Influenza: An annual flu shot can help prevent the nearly 36,000 deaths that occur due to flu each year in the United States. The flu vaccine is designed to combat the current strain of flu, so it is recommended anytime between September to March, which is the prime flu season. People age 50 and older should opt for the injection rather than the nasal form of the vaccine.

• Tdap: This vaccine protects against tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis and is especially necessary for people who have close contact with young infants. Pertussis, or whooping cough, can be passed on to youngsters and make them very ill. If you’ve never received a Tdap vaccine, the CDC suggests getting it at least once. Individual tetanus boosters should be received every 10 years.

• Pneumococcal: Pneumococcal disease is an infection caused by the pneumococcus bacteria. It can cause pneumonia, blood infection, ear infections, and even bacterial meningitis. This vaccine is given to adults age 65 and older or to younger adults at their physicians’ discretion.

• Hepatitis A: Individuals with medical, occupational or lifestyle conditions, such as healthcare workers

or people with chronic liver disease, may need a twodose series of the hepatitis A vaccine.

Adults who are avid travelers to various parts of the world that may bring them in contact with animals or people who do not receive the same course of immunizations may need additional vaccines. Speak with a doctor about which immunizations are recommended before travel.

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about many things with your loved ones: from day-to-day details to big events. Sharing stories with those who matter most isn’t just important today; it will be especially significant when about it’s time to things honorwith andyour commemorate your lives. details to many loved ones: from day-to-day big events. Sharingabout stories many with those whowith matter most isn’t ones: just important today; it will details be things your loved from day-to-day to Memorialization at the end of life is more than it used to be. It can reflect a person’s life especially significant when it’sthose time towho honor and commemorate yourimportant lives. big events.

Sharing stories with matter most isn’t just today; it will be story and be transformative, healing and comforting. especially significant at when it’s of time tomore honor and commemorate your alives.

Memorialization the end life is than it used to be. It can reflect person’s life Meaningful starts when loved ones talk about what matters most: memories story memorialization and be transformative, healing and comforting.

Memorialization at the end of life is more than it used to be. It can reflect a person’s life made, Meaningful lessons learned and how theywhen hope to be remembered. memorialization starts loved ones talk about what matters most: memories story and be transformative, healing and comforting. made, lessons learned and how they hope to be remembered.

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Page 5

Living 50 Plus • March 2015

Tips for avoiding boredom in retirement SUBMITTED From the moment young men and women first walk into the office for their first day as a working professional until the day they officially retire, the notion of planning for retirement is never far from their minds. But when the day to hang up the briefcase and donate all those business suits arrives, some retirees wonder what to do next. Some retirees know exactly how they will spend their days when they no longer have to work, while others who decide to play it by ear may find themselves battling boredom.

For those among the latter group, it’s important to understand that many retirees find themselves bored once they no longer have to focus on a career. Jobs keep men and women busy and provide a sense of purpose in their lives, so it’s understandable that retirees feel bored once those jobs are no longer a part of their lives.

But just because you no longer have an office to go to every day does not mean life cannot be as fulfilling or even more fulfilling than it was when you were still working. You

just need to find something to avoid succumbing to retirement boredom.

• Work part-time.

Though it might seem odd to start working right after you re-

A New Chapter In Caring To my dearest friends at the Timbers of Cass County: I will never be able to express my gratitude enough to you when my mom was at her lowest, so I hope this tells you how I feel.

To just say “thank you” for all you have done for my mom and my family would not even come close to what I feel when I think of you guys/gals. From giving her a bath, combing her hair, clipping her nails, feeding her, and the countless other things that you have and/or continue to do to keep her comfortable, happy, clean, and dignified, I will forever be grateful. For over the last several months, you guys/gals have taken care of her and are kind and compassionate to her. I know that if I can’t make it in to see her, she will still get the best of care. Your patience and love to her and the rest of the residents are evident in everything you say and do. I have witnessed it all, and I am thankful.

From the nurses to the kitchen personnel, to the staff who clean everything, the administrative, maintenance, and laundry workers, and the rest of the workers, I salute you all. You keep the Home a clean, safe, friendly, and healthy place to live, a true “home,” a place to call their own, a place to find refuge and friendship and warmth. I know your jobs aren’t easy, but you make it seem that way. Your sense of humor is tested daily. The ability to laugh at yourself and joke with others is one of the most endearing qualities.

Without Timbers and all you guys/gals to take care of my mother, I truly believe that my mother would not have made it through this. I could go on and on, but this should give you an idea of how I feel. It’s all you and you’re all great, and you have one of the most important jobs in the world. You are all friends.

This note is too short to express my true gratitude for you guys/gals for treating my mom like one of your own. Hugs to all of you.

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tire, a part-time job can provide the type of structure you have grown accustomed to without all of the responsibility that comes with a full-time career.

Part-time jobs can range from consultancy work that makes use of your professional experience to something entirely different like landscape maintenance at a nearby golf course that gets you out of the house and enjoying the warmer seasons. Whichever you choose, make sure it’s something you find fun and interesting.

• Embrace a new hobby. Working professionals often say they wish they had time to pursue a hobby. Now that you are retired, you have all the time in the world to do just that. Whether it’s perfecting your golf game, writing that novel, learning to cook like a gourmet chef or whatever else you might have always wanted to do, retirement is a great time to do it.

• Get in shape. If retirement boredom has started to negatively affect your mood, one great way to conquer your boredom and improve your mood at the same time is to start exercising. Exercise is a natural mood enhancer. When

the body exercises, it releases chemicals knowns as endorphins, which trigger positive feelings in the body. In addition, regular exercise has been shown to reduce stress, boost self-esteem and improve sleep. Working out at a gym also is a great way to meet fellow retirees in your community, and the energy you have after exercising may give you the boost you need to pursue other hobbies.

• Volunteer. If a part-time job is not up your alley, then consider volunteering in your community. Volunteers are always in demand, and volunteering with a local charity can provide a sense of purpose and provide opportunities to meet like-minded fellow retirees, all while helping to quell your boredom. Retirees who love to travel can combine their passion for volunteering with their love of travel by signing up to work with an international relief organization that travels abroad to help the less fortunate.

Upon retiring, many retirees initially find themselves coping with boredom. But there are many ways to avoid the restlessness of retirement.

Page 6

Living 50 Plus • March 2015

Sing in the

Spring

By CRAIG HAUPERT craig.haupert@leaderpub.com

W

hen Traci Smith’s 86-yearold mother began having various health issues last year, Smith turned to the Greater Niles Area Senior Center for guidance.

There, Smith said she found the resources and assurance she needed to help her mother get through a tough time.

“They had the information right

there and made it easy for us to get in touch with the people we needed to get in touch with,” Smith said. “I didn’t realize just how many services they provided.”

In an effort to bring attention to the Greater Niles Senior Center and its services, Smith is organizing a special event at the senior center from 5 to 8 p.m. Thursday, March 19.

Smith said the event, called “Sing in the Spring,” will feature approximately 25 businesses, services and organizations aimed at people of

Event designed to draw community to Greater Niles Area Senior Center

all ages.

Among those invited are Pet Refuge, a non-profit pet rescue; Happy Paws, a maker of homemade healthy pet treats; Edward Jones financial services; Forever Young Publishers; Xocai Health Chocolate; J.R. Watkins Products; Heritage Insurance; and more.

Food will be provided by Chef Ric Daly.

The event is free to attend and booth space is $10. The deadline for registering for booth space is March

14. Call Smith to reserve a spot at (269) 683-2180.

Smith said she hopes the event allows more people to see all the good things the senior center is doing.

“I am so grateful that they are there,” Smith said.

The Greater Niles Senior Center, located at 1109 Bell Rd., Niles, provides a broad range of services and programs for seniors in the Niles area. Its mission is to offer a variety of activities to keep area seniors engage and active.

Page 7

Living 50 Plus • March 2015

Travel benefits offered to older adults SUBMITTED One of the best things about aging is being able to enjoy the fruits of your labor without as many obligations as you might have had when you were a younger adult. For example, many men and women have a lot more freedom to travel once they turn 50.

Many of today’s older adults have a wealth of discretionary time, and those who focused on retirement planning from an early age have the money to fund a recreational lifestyle. Travel companies and other businesses understand that Baby Boomers and other seniors are valuable customers and are rolling out the red carpet with a bevy of discounts and perks.

AARP Services, Inc. has long been a trusted resource in seniorbased information and resources. The organization continues to broker relationships with various companies to arrange deals on travel-related services and products for older men and women. Members of AARP can link directly to deals through the organization’s website.

In addition to companies that work with AARP, many other travel companies have discounts

or other perks available to men and women over 50. All consumers need to do is inquire about such benefits. When in doubt, log on to the company’s website or give their customer service department a call.

Here are some other ways to secure deals on travel and other services.

• Do some networking.

Fellow seniors who log in to chat rooms or who are members of social clubs may have the inside scoop on age-based travel

deals. Learn the ropes from others who have been there before you and take notes on which companies offer the best deals.

• Read the fine print. Understand the details of senior discounts and compare them to other promotions offered to anyone, regardless of age. You may be able to get a better deal or combine offers if you’re not locked into a senior plan. Also, check the dates when deals are valid to ensure you can travel when you want to.

• Always carry proof of age. Whether it is a driver’s license, AARP card, passport, or birth certificate, carry proof of your age at all times. You do not want to miss out on a discount because you cannot verify you are 50 or older. Though being mistaken as younger could be a boost to your ego, it will not benefit your bottom line.

• Explore airline perks. Men and women 55 and older may be eligible for “golden-agers” discounts at major airlines. Such

deals are not typically advertised, so you may need to speak with an airline representative to secure the discount. Seniors also can request special services, such as baggage assistance, priority seating and a ride to the gate, at the airport.

• Try negotiating with vendors. If you cannot find a senior discount, consider negotiating with vendors for deals.

Local hotels or businesses may prove more flexible than national chains. It never hurts to ask for a senior discount.

• Embrace flexibility in scheduling. Unlike students or business travelers, seniors tend to have freedom with regard to the days of the week when they can travel. You have the flexibility to go and come as you please without having to coordinate with vacation time or school breaks. Use this to your advantage and travel during off-peak times when crowds will be small and rates may be lower.

Don’t feel down if you’re approaching another milestone birthday. Entering into your golden years gives you access to a variety of perks and discounts that can save you time and money on travel.

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6 Page 8

Living 50 Plus • March 2015

tips to keeping older adults safe at home

(BPT) — Safety is a big concern for seniors and their families, especially as more baby boomers are embracing aging at home. Homes they’ve owned for decades that were perfect for raising children may not be as accommodating for people who may suffer from poor eye sight, unsteady balance or memory issues.

Many home updates can help protect senior family members, allowing them to enjoy their homes for many more years.

These tips will help protect the privacy and safety of older residents.

• Home exterior security — A security alarm system is always a good idea, and many will also connect to fire protection services as well. Sliding and patio doors are among the least secure entrances to a home, so install a Master Lock 265DCCSEN Door Security Bar to resist any type of forced entry into the home.

• Keep extra keys secure — Many family members of seniors like to have access to a home so they can check on their loved ones. Instead of hiding the

keys under a fake rock in the yard, protect them with a Master Lock 5422D Key Safe. The safe attaches over the door handle for easy accessibility and requires a four-button push code to reveal the keys.

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It’s also great for emergency situations if a family member accidentally locks the keys inside the house on a cold night.

• Install security lights — Exterior lights help discourage unwanted guests, so install additional lights on all sides of the home and out in the yard’s landscaping. You can install motion-sensor lights if you don’t want them shining all night long, but you might notice nighttime critters like owls and raccoons will set the lights off.

• Give valuables a safe home — Many baby boomers have accumulated a lifetime of treasures with real and sentimental value. Smaller items like jewelry, credit cards and cash can easily be stored in the portable Master Lock 5900 SafeSpace, which is perfect for traveling around the world or even to visit grandchildren. For important documents like wills and legal documents, a fire-resistant safe from Sentry Safe is a good option.

• Create a flexible schedule — Because they’re retired, seniors are able to leave the house for different activities

during the day. Oftentimes, seniors will get into a regular schedule like meeting a group of friends for breakfast at 7 a.m. every Tuesday. Create an irregular schedule for your weekly activities so people won’t be able to anticipate when you’re home or away.

• Digital safety is important, too — In today’s digital world, computer passwords are the keys to valuable personal information. It is recommended that you use a unique smart password one that contains capital and lower case letters, numbers and symbols - for every digital account. It’s difficult for most people to remember multiple passwords, so many write them down, which can make them vulnerable to theft. The Master Lock Vault is a free, digital safe deposit box perfect for securing passwords, credit card numbers and digital copies of important documents, and it can be accessed from a smartphone at any time.

With these security tips, seniors can enjoy spending many more years — comfortable and safe — in their homes.

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Living 50 Plus • March 2015

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Page 10

Living 50 Plus • March 2015

Spring into a

stress-free A

We Bring Helping Hands To Your Home!

retirement

s we say “goodbye” to winter weather hardships and “hello” to gardens budding with vibrant color, we welcome the season by celebrating Stress Awareness Month.

Did you know that stress, also called the “silent killer,” could cause heart disease and high blood pressure? Recognizing the sources of stress is the best way to understand how you can start eliminating factors in your life that put unnecessary strain on your body and mind.

Social Security wants to make your retirement planning as stress-free as possible, which is why we have a number of online tools available for you. You can create your own secure, personal my Social Security account from the comfort of your living room and avoid unpleasant traffic and a possible long wait in one of our field offices. Once you have a my Social Security account, you can view your Social Security Statement, verify your earnings record, and find out what to expect in monthly benefits if you retire at ages 62, 67, or 70.

Once you begin receiving Social Security benefits, you can use my Social Security to check your benefit information, change your address and phone number, change your electronic payment method, and obtain an instant benefit verification

letter and replacement SSA-1099/1042S. You can easily sign up for my Social Security at www.socialsecurity.gov/myaccount.

When you decide it’s time to start receiving your retirement benefits, the application process is far less stressful now that you’re prepared. You can securely apply online without picking up the phone or leaving your house. Simply go to www. socialsecurity.gov/ applyonline, and, in as little as 15 minutes, you can breeze through our online retirement application.

Our website and online tools are always available. You can enjoy Social Security’s stress-free retirement planning tools any time of the year, giving you more time to enjoy these warmer months.

Vonda VanTil is the public affairs specialist for West Michigan. You can write her c/o Social Security Administration, 3045 Knapp St NE, Grand Rapids MI 49525 or via email at vonda.vantil@ ssa.gov

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Page 11

Living 50 Plus • March 2015

Q&A

Social security specialist answers questions submitted by southwest Michigan residents

Question: Someone stole my Social Security number, and it’s being used repeatedly. Does Social Security issue new Social Security numbers to victims of repeated identity theft?

And thank you for your military service!

Question: I have been collecting disability benefits for a few years, but I’m getting healthy enough to work again.

Can I return to work while getting Social Security disability benefits?

Answer: Identity theft is one of the fastest growing crimes in America, so you aren’t alone. If you’ve done all you can to identify and fix the problem, including contacting the Federal Trade Commission, but someone is still using your number, Social Security may assign you a new number.

If you decide to apply for a new number, you’ll need to prove your identity, age, and U.S. citizenship or immigration status. You’ll also need to provide evidence you’re having ongoing problems because of the misuse of your current Social Security number.

You can read more about identity theft at www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs.

Question: Now that my husband and I have a large family, we’ve hired a housekeeper that comes once a week.

Do we have to withhold Social Security taxes from our housekeeper’s earnings?

Answer: It depends on how much you’re paying the housekeeper. If you pay a housekeeper or other household worker $1,900 or more in cash wages throughout the year, you must deduct Social Security and Medicare taxes. This holds true for a cleaning person, cook, gardener, babysitter, or anyone else who provides services for you. In addition, you must report these wages once a year.

There are exceptions, for example, when you are hiring a company or independent contractor and paying them a fee for services instead of wages to an individual. You can learn more about house-

Answer: Yes, you can return to work while receiving Social Security disability benefits. We have special rules to help you get back to work without lowering your initial benefits. You may be able to have a trial work period for nine months to test whether you can work.

If you get disability benefits and your condition improves or you return to work, you must report these changes to us. Call us at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-3250778) or contact your local Social Security office. You can find your local office by visiting www.socialsecurity.gov/locator. hold workers and tax deductions by reading our publication, Household Workers, at www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs.

fects your benefits by reading our publication, How Work Affects Your Benefits, at www.socialsecurity.gov/pubs.

Question: Although I stopped working a few years ago, I had additional seasonal earnings after my retirement.

Will my monthly Social Security retirement benefit increase?

Question: I served in the military, and I’ll receive a military pension when I retire. Will that affect my Social Security benefits?

Answer: Possibly. And, you can get Social Security retirement or survivors benefits and work at the same time. Each year, we review the records for all working Social Security recipients to see if additional earnings may increase their monthly benefit amounts. If an increase is due, we calculate a new benefit amount and pay the increase retroactive to January following the year of earnings.

You can learn more about how work af-

Answer: You can get both Social Security retirement benefits and military retirement at the same time. Generally, we don’t reduce your Social Security benefits because of your military benefits.

When you’re ready to apply for Social Security retirement benefits, go to www. socialsecurity.gov/applyonline. This is the fastest and easiest way to apply. For your convenience, you can always save your progress during your application and complete it later.

Question: My father collects disability benefits, but he is interested in trying working again. Is there a program that helps disabled people find work while they’re collecting Social Security disability benefits?

Answer: Social Security’s Ticket to Work program can help beneficiaries go to work, get a good job that may lead to a career, save more money, and become financially independent.

This program doesn’t affect your disability benefits — you can keep collecting your benefits while participating. Ticket to Work is a free and voluntary program that gives beneficiaries real choices to help them create and lead better lives.

You can learn more about our Ticket to Work program at www.socialsecurity. gov/work or www.socialsecurity.gov/ work/home.html.

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Page 12

Living 50 Plus • March 2015

American Dream Learn to care for the caregiver Tours 901 Lincolnway E. • Plymouth, IN 46563

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SEE AMERICA THE BEAUTIFUL WITH US! April 14th ..................... The Church Basement Ladies The Last Potluck Supper - Wabash April 18th ..................... The Jersey Boys - Ft. Wayne May 7th ........................ Show Me The Money - Chicago May 18th–21st ............. The Bourbon Trail - Kentucky June 10th–13th ........... 4 Day Mystery Tour June 11th ..................... Pat & Debbie Boone - Shipshewana June 15th–18th ........... The Beautiful Apostle Islands June 29th–30th ........... Experience Grand Rapids: Frederik Meijer Gardens, Gerald R. Ford Museum & more July 6th –12th .............. The Excitement of New York City: Broadway, 911 Memorial, Statue of Liberty & More July 13th–15th ............. 3 Day Mystery Tour - Get Lost In The Fun July 22nd ..................... A Day of Fun July 25th–Aug 2nd ...... Canadian Rockies and Glacier National Park Aug. 4th ....................... Naval Station Great Lakes and U505 Tour - Chicago Aug. 9th–12th .............. Charming Thunder Bay & Beautiful Petoskey Aug. 16th ..................... All Shook Up - Theatre At The Center - Munster, IN Aug. 23rd–Sept 2nd .... Yellowstone, Mt. Rushmore, The Badlands & More Sept. 14th–17th ........... Heros & Legends in Tennessee Sept. 19th–25th ........... The Beauty & History of Cape Cod Sept. 30th–Oct. 1st ..... 2 Day Mystery Tour - We’ll Make Your Dreams Come True Nov. 30th–Dec. 3rd...... Celebrate Christmas at the Greenbrier Resort Dec. 9th–11th .............. Red, White & Blue Musical Christmas

SUBMITTED

SOUTH BEND — Envilant’s Grand Emerald Place will host a community education event called Caring for the Caregiver from 10 to 11 a.m. March 26.

The event will foucs on tips and include an open discussion to help those who care for elder loved ones at home. The Barb Dzikowski speaker and event host is Barb Dzikowski, the program director for Alzheimer’s and Dementia Services of Northern Indiana.

“Caring for an elderly loved one can be stressful and challenging. Often elder loved ones are experiencing the first symptoms of memory loss,” said

Jim May, executive director at Grand Emerald Place. “Grand Emerald Place is honored to bring this important conversation to our community as our licensed assisted living community engages with families every day on this important topic.”

Guests to the program will learn more about navigating the landscape of caring for a loved one while also caring for themselves from an expert in the community.

According to Dzikowski, “the single most important ingredient that distinguishes healthy care giving from unhealthy care giving is the ability to consistently practice good self-care, a combination of pacing, flexibility and balance.”

Everyone is invited to join the discussion to learn how and where to get the compassionate, supportive resources they need as they care for a loved one to ensure they thrive during the care giving journey.

Join us April 10th & May 8th for South Bend Coffee’s at Trinity Evangelical Free Church.

Located at 61770 Miami Road, South Bend Share Your Comments At

Visit our website for a full list of tours!

www.AmericanDreamTours.biz

www.leaderpub.com And LIKE us on Facebook!

Page 13

Living 50 Plus • March 2015

Coping with spring allergies

By TIM MOSIER tim.mosier@leaderpub.com According to the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology, approximately 36 million people in America live with seasonal allergies.

According to Dr. Byra Reddy, M.D., about eight percent of those are people over the age of 50.

It seems like everyone knows someone who dreads allergy season.

While everyone else is excited for spring time and the warm weather, there is a large number of people who see this time of year as a blessing and a curse.

In the spring, allergy season spans from around the middle of March to beginning of May. This is when the amount of tree pollen in the air is at its highest.

Dr. Reddy practices at the Asthma and Allergy Centers in Holland, Michigan but makes weekly trips to see patients in Niles.

“The allergic reactions we see in the spring are mainly caused by pollen. In the spring

it is tree pollen, in the summer it is grasses and weeds and in the fall it is mainly ragweed allergies, with each allergen having its peak times during the season,” Dr. Reddy said.

Contrary to popular belief, when it comes to being at risk for allergy symptoms and allergic reactions, senior citizens are actually less susceptible to the pollen. This is due to the

fact that as people age their bodies build up an immunity to the things that bother us. At the same time, when seniors are struck with allergy symptoms, it can be a lot worse than just a runny nose.

“We see a combination of symptoms depending on severity. It ranges from sneezing, running nose to a cough and itchy, water eyes. The most

bothersome symptom for seniors is nasal congestion because it can cause headaches, breathing problems and all around discomfort and can turn into asthma,” said Dr. Reddy, “And a lot of times they don’t get proper sleep, so it takes a huge toll on their recovery.”

Allergy specialists stress that, especially in the elderly, symptoms should be carefully monitored. Left untreated, allergies can lead to ear, sinus and bronchial infections that may require antibiotics or lung and respiratory issues that can cause severe trouble breathing.

Kelsey Breiler is a medical assistant at the South Bend Medical Clinic and spent some time working for Asthma Allergy Centers. She sees more of a concern with the drugs used to treat allergies and the potential for complications due to different combinations of drugs in seniors.

“Medications play a huge role in allergies and elderly patients with pre-existing conditions because some allergy medications can affect certain drugs being taken for other ill-

nesses,” Breiler said. “Also, some allergy medications can severely affect the liver, kidneys and heart in older patients.”

For someone with pre-existing conditions, professionals say it is important to talk to a doctor before taking any over the counter allergy medication.

“All (allergy medications) are very similar, some brands work better for some people than others, but when you’re trying something for the first time it really doesn’t matter which,” Reddy said.

The best thing for someone with bad allergies to do, especially the elderly, is to take precautions leading up to allergy season. Taking some nasal sprays or antihistamine tablets before conditions present can be very affective.

It is important for anyone with bad or persisting allergy symptoms to contact their doctor right away.

“As the allergen moves deeper and deeper into the lungs with persistent coughing, there is a much higher risk for severe complications,” Reddy said.

Page 14

Living 50 Plus • March 2015

heart Show your

some love

Tips for living a healthy lifestyle (Family Features) Each day offers new opportunities to make choices that impact your health and overall wellness. Though hectic schedules can cause many of us to let healthy habits fall to the wayside, it is important that we give our bodies the attention and care they deserve.

Consider these small steps to gradually improve your whole body and heart health, which can help you enjoy a happier, longer life: • Strike a balance. Take a simpler approach to the traditional idea of “dieting.” Balance calories in versus calories out with a combination of good food choices, such as fruits, vegetables and whole grains, and regular exercise, such as walking or hiking. Incorporate lowcalorie, naturally fat-free foods into your diet, such as new Dole Red Grapefruit Sunrise Fruit Bowls, which bring allnatural fruit together with 100 percent juice. They are a great way to start the day or just enjoy as a delicious snack.

Grapefruit naturally offers a plentiful source of nutrients, including phosphorus, potassium and vitamins A and C.

• Watch the middle. According to the Mayo Clinic, that extra weight you carry around the mid-section can cause serious health problems, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes and certain cancers.

Work to keep this common problem area in check by reducing caloric intake and increasing physical activity.

• Skip the stress. While a little stress is part of being human, too much can be taxing on the heart. Find activities that engage your mind and naturally relieve stress such as knitting, crafting or working on a puzzle.

• Dine in the a.m. Don’t let a rushed morning routine get in the way of enjoying a heart-healthy breakfast. A complete morning meal includes a combination of whole grains, protein, and fruits or vegetables. For a convenient, on-the-go option, throw an individually-sealed cup of Dole Red Grapefruit Sunrise in your laptop bag or purse. Each cup contains peakof-ripeness, wholesome, peeled grapefruit and allows you to enjoy grapefruit all year around. Plus, they’re gluten free, contain no GMOs (genetically modified or engineered ingredients) or artificial

sweeteners, and feature BPA-free packaging.

• Drink more water. For your body to function properly, it needs the right amount of hydration. According to the Institute of Medicine, the average required intake for a male is about 13 cups, while a female requires about 9 cups. Switch out sodas and sugary drinks with water to reap its benefits, and to shave off extra

“empty” calories that may contribute to weight gain.

• Get routine exams. A yearly doctor’s examination keeps you more informed of your body’s ever-changing status, and it keeps your health care provider in the loop, too. Educate yourself and understand the import numbers for your heart, including blood pressure, cholesterol and triglycerides.

Easy, delicious meals that make the heart happy (Family Features) Did you know that small, positive additions to your diet and lifestyle can help promote a healthier heart? Instead of denying yourself the delicious flavors you crave, try weaving a few subtle changes into your menu and you can healthfully and conveniently meet your wellness goals.

Sprinkle soy into your diet, easily Available in many delicious forms, soy-based foods and beverages make the swap towards healthier options a snap.

“Soy protein is a very high quality protein, equivalent to egg or milk protein,” said Mindy Kurzer, Ph.D. and professor with the Department of Food Science and Nutrition at the University of Minnesota. “Soyfoods, such as soymilk, have been shown to lower dietary cholesterol and saturated fat, decreasing blood cholesterol concentrations and improving heart health.”

Try some of these meal ideas to help you cut calories, saturated fat and cholesterol from your diet: • Breakfast: Take on the day by enjoying a fruit and soymilk blended smoothie for breakfast. Soymilk is the only plant-based dairy alternative with an average of 7 grams of protein per serving plus calcium, potassium, and vitamins A and D. • Lunch: Opt for a juicy veggie burger – easy to cook in just a few minutes.

Or try this flavorful recipe for Tuna Edamame Salad, which allows you to take in all the healthy benefits of these young green soybeans with a quick and easy lunch. Did you know one cup of edamame contains 17 grams of protein?

• Snack: Throw a protein-packed nutrition bar in your car, bag or purse so you can have a healthy snack while running errands. (But read the label to make sure it contains soy protein and isn’t loaded with sugar.)

• Dinner: Load up on vegetables and protein with a tasty and easy stir fry using marinated tofu strips. Or cholesterol-free soy “crumbles” can quickly and easily be added to favorites including pasta sauce, soup, chili and tacos.

To find more recipes featuring soy protein, visit www.soyfoods.org or www.soyconnection.com.

Tuna Edamame Salad Prep time: 5 minutes Servings: 4

Nutrition per 1 cup serving: 210 calories; 3 g fat (0 g saturated fat); 16 g protein; 27 g carbohydrate; 4 g fiber; 25 mg cholesterol; 350 mg sodium.

Ingredients 1 cup frozen shelled edamame, cooked according to package directions 1 cup cherry tomatoes, cut in half 1 cup carrots, shredded 1 can (6 ounces) tuna, water packed, drained 1/2 cup golden raisins 1/4 cup red onion, diced 1/4 cup bottled, reduced-fat Italian salad dressing TIP: Try it with Pita grain le bread or who ! rs ke crac

Instructions Mix edamame, tomatoes, carrots, tuna, raisins and onion in medium bowl. Pour dressing over salad and toss until combined. Serve with pita bread halves or whole grain crackers.

Living 50 Plus • March 2015

Page 15

Featuring: Melissa Manchester Storyteller Tim Lowry Author Gary Shteyngart

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217 North 4th Street, Niles, MI 49120 • (269) 683-2100 www.leaderpub.com

Friendships.

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At the Hearth at Juday Creek we recognize the importance of friendship and know that staying socially active is an important part of healthy aging. So whether you’re sharing a good laugh in our pub, meeting neighbors for dinner, challenging friends during a THINK MORE® sessions, or partaking in one of our many outings–we aim to make it easy for you to meet new friends, kick-back and have fun!

Page 16

Living 50 Plus • March 2015

RiveRidge ManoR Serving the Niles Community with excellence for the past 60 years!

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