active seniors August/September 2016
INSIDE THIS EDITION: Medical Alert Devices Benefits of Owning a Dog Going Back to School Renewing Friendships + More! OASIS will celebrate National Senior Center Month this September at its center, located at 420 Soares Avenue in Old Orcutt The theme of this year’s event is “Find Balance at Your Center” A number of FREE activities have been planned, including the following during Active Aging Week: • Balance Workshop (Sep. 26th) • Flu Shot Clinic (Sep. 26th) • Computer Basics Class (Sep. 27th) • Geocaching Trip (Sep. 28th) • Aging Eyes Presentation by Brail Institute (Sep. 29th) • OASIS Sock Hop Dance by Ernie’s Ballroom Dancing (Sep. 30th) For more information, call 937-9750 or visit www.oasisorcutt.org A proud member of the Active Aging Committee of Santa Maria Valley
Medical Alert Systems As adults with senior loved ones, it’s one of our biggest fears: learning of a fall. According to the CDC, more than 33 percent of accidents and falls involving people over age 65 occur at home.
W
ith more seniors opting to age at home in their later years, this statistic is likely to only rise. So what can you, the caregiver, do when the potential for falls seems to be on the increase? Fortunately, there are numerous medical alert systems on the market, many of which have had great success in helping the elderly population stay safer in their homes. There are different types of systems and applications, so be sure to do your research before purchasing one. It’s important that you choose one that fits your family member’s preferences if you want it to be a successful experience.
button will give you great peace of mind in knowing your family member is ready to respond quickly to emergency situations.
CONSUMER TIPS
DIFFERENT TYPES OF DEVICES There are many devices available that will instantly alert you and emergency personnel in the case of a fall or other related incidents. Also referred to as personal emergency response systems, these monitors allow the user to push a button on the transmitter to summon emergency help, including medical, fire or police personnel.
These systems allow seniors to wear the transmitter around their necks, on their wrists or even affixed to their wheelchairs for convenience. This easy-to-reach
With so many different options on the market, how do you know which medical alert system is right for you and your family? There are a few factors to keep in mind before spending your hard-earned cash. Here are a couple: • Pricing structure. For many of the top medical alert companies, you will be required to pay a monthly fee for emergency-capable services. Always compare your pricing and make sure to get locked into a fixed monthly rate. • Company reputation. As always, before entering into a monthly contract, be sure to do your homework on the company. How long have they been in business? What types of guarantees can they give you on the quality of their product? Reading objective reviews can help narrow the field.
2 August/September 2016 / Active Seniors / Lee Central Coast Newspapers
Do You Have Questions About Medicare? I have answers. Contact Glenna Ledbetter Insurance today for your FREE consultation and a quote over the phone. Medicare Supplements • 10 companies to choose from • As low as $27 Prescription Drug Plans Medicare Advantage Plans
Glenna Ledbetter Insurance 440 E. Clark Ave • Santa Maria, CA
805-937-4516
www.glennaledbetterinsurance.com
Bingo, Bridge, Bunco & More
Aerobics to Zumba
Are you looking for something different to do? Do you want to make some new friends, learn a new activity, or travel to new places? Join the Santa Maria Valley Senior Club today!
Our Travel Group offers a wide variety of trips near and far, for a day or for a week! Heading to Mackinac Island next May ~ sign up Oct. 17! Monthly Dances! Elwin Mussell Senior Center 510 E. Park Ave., Santa Maria 925-0951, Ext. 2207 or smvseniors@gmail.com smvscc.org/main.html
Improve Your Bowling Game B
Knocking down some pins with buddies is a great way to spend a Saturday afternoon, but what if you’re looking to step up your game or ratchet up the competiveness?
y starting with the basics and setting some goals, you can be on your way to achieving your goal of bowling that perfect 300. You just have to know where to start.
IT’S ALL IN THE BALL
OK, maybe there is no magic ball that will automatically add a few pins to your final score. You don’t need to spend a ton of money on the latest bowling ball with the newest technology. Work with a professional bowling shop to find the ball that matches your fingertip grip and matches the weight that is appropriate to your strength and ability. As any bowler will tell you, a ball that is too light or heavy can impact your game and even cause a sore arm. So when looking to improve your overall game, analyzing your ball is a great starting point. get into funks when it comes to preparation and delivery. NEW TECHNIQUES The key working through them is being able to If you’ve been bowling for a while and can’t seem identify what aspect of your personal bowling style is to break into higher scores, you may be suffering from some bad habits. Even professional athletes can compromising your efforts on the hardwood. There
are numerous movements that go into a perfect bowling ball delivery, including hand placement, follow-through and footwork, and within each one of these factors, there are many more. This can be a lot for a novice bowler to untangle as you try to bolster your average score. It may be time to call in a professional.
HIRE A COACH Yes, that’s right. Just like golf and tennis, you can find a professional coach to help you turn the corner in your bowling game. Reach out to your local bowling alley to find out if any of its league members offer services on the side. They should be able to point you in the right direction. Working with a local coach means you will not only improve your overall game but also build a strong relationship with someone who knows the ins and outs of the local bowling scene. This could lead to opportunities for you as far as joining a league or entering various competitions.
• Specialized treatment for a variety of problems • Balance and Fall Prevention Programs
Our Specialty Programs Palliative Care Parkinson’s Wellness The CHF Program Better Balance for Life® Total Joint Program Lymphedema Therapy
call us:
mycchh.com
Locally Owned and Operated Medical Staff Available 24/7 Private Consultation No Delay in Start of Care Call us for more info
805-540-6020 centralcoasthospice.com
• Visits are up to 60 minutes of personalized therapy • Seniors are eligible to receive outpatient therapy in their homes under Medicare Part B Contact Us:
1-888-253-6077 Servicing Northern Santa Barbara County
Jennifer Holland, PT CA Lic #10957
3
805-543-2244
there is HOPE in HOSPICE
Lee Central Coast Newspapers / Active Seniors / August/September 2016
Therapy Of Santa Maria
PHYSICAL THERAPY FOR SENIORS
There is much to be excited about at the Luis Oasis Senior Center! We have reached the 1,200 member milestone, and our calendar has every spot filled. Besides the wonderful groups of all genres meeting from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. daily, our evenings have been creating quite a stir as well. Active Aging Week 2016 The Active Aging Committee is strategic partnership, comprised of the top senior advocacy organizations in the Santa Maria Valley, on a mission to make this area a haven for healthy aging. Each year, our committee plans a full week of activities that cater to just about every level of mental and physical ability with a hint of adventure.
Did you know OASIS members receive exclusive discounts from several local merchants and restaurants? They are also invited to exclusive members only tastings and food pairing events that the public doesn’t have access to. Orcutt is a wonderful place to shop for all your needs. We work with locally owned businesses to keep our dollars here, while having a good time doing it. Check our website for more information.
How can you participate? You pick up a free Active Aging Week flyer at the OASIS or Elwin Mussell Center. These flyers have information on each activity. There are 30 opportunities at 8 different locations throughout the Central Coast during the week.
Evening Dancing Fun
Mondays: 6:30 ~ Line Dance Wednesdays: 6:30 ~ Ballroom Dance Thursday: 6:30 ~ Country Dance Thursday: 6:30 ~ Hula Dance And more… Sample of Daily Activities
4 August/September 2016 / Active Seniors / Lee Central Coast Newspapers
Exclusive Events & Discounts
TRAVEL Abroad Domestic Local EXERCISE & FITNESS Intermediate Exercise Arthritis Exercise Evening Dancing Yoga & Pilates Tai Chi HOLISTIC HEALTH Reflexology Chair Massage Nutrition Counseling
OASIS is now recognized as the “Dancing Hub” of the Santa Maria Valley. We have the best instructors here during the evenings every week. Different styles of Dance. Open to everyone. We have it all!
ARTS & CRAFTS Ceramics Knitting & Crocheting Faceting & Silversmithing Painting Card Making Creative Arts
HOBBIES HAM Radio Operators Ukulele Band Choir Computer Lab
EDUCATION Lifelong Learning Presentations Smart Phone/Gadget Classes AARP Safe Driving Course Foreign Language Courses CARDS & GAMES Oasis Bridge Club Mah Jonng Hand & Foot Games Hour Bingo
420 Soares Ave, Orcutt, CA 93455 Mail: P.O. Box 2637 Orcutt, CA 93457
SOCIAL SUPPORT USDA Food Distribution New Grievers Support Bereavement Phase II Braille Institute OASIS Pancake Breakfast OASIS Member Farmers Market Tradewinds Newsletter KinCares “Grandparents Raising Grandchildren” Al-Anon Family Group Narcotics Anonymous Special Events Cultural Enrichment Programs FACILITY RENTAL Special Events Community Club Meetings
Phone: (805) 937-9750 Email: info@oasisorcutt.org Website: www.oasisorcut.org Facebook: OASIS Center Twitter: @OasisSeniors
Have you Had your Annual Hearing Screening?
Call for an appointment (805) 693-4486 Conveniently located just southeast of Santa Ynez Valley Cottage Hospital on Village Lane.
Providing exceptional hearing health care in Solvang for more than 31 years. Our state licensed hearing instrument dispenser has over 20 years of hearing health industry experience. The office is equipped with the most precise diagnostic equipment available. We offer consultative services to improve your hearing health.
Proud provider of Danish hearing aid manufacturer WIDEX, the 2012 European Inventor Award Winner.
2027 Village Ln., Ste. 204, Solvang, CA 93463 Most insurance accepted.
Lee Central Coast Newspapers / Active Seniors / August/September 2016
Schedule your FREE Hearing Analysis ($99 value).
5
Benefits of Owning a Dog We know that walking is great for your overall health. New research shows that walking the dog can be even better. Studies connect the ownership of a dog to more exercise among owners.
6 August/September 2016 / Active Seniors / Lee Central Coast Newspapers
T
hat’s because if Fido needs to walk off his energy every day, the owner is likely to pick up some beneficial exercise in the process. Researchers at the University of Missouri found that dog walking is associated with lower body mass index, fewer doctor visits, more frequent exercise and an increase in social benefits for seniors. The next time you’re looking for a way to improve your overall health, consider man’s best friend as a solution.
lot of daily exercise for healthy joints and weight, owners may find themselves hitting the sidewalks two to three times per day. That’s a lot of extra exercise compared to seniors who may be living more sedentary lifestyles.
MORE ON THE STUDY
The University of Missouri researchers used data from the Health and Retirement study sponsored by the National Institute on Aging and the Social Security Administration. Their overall findings supported the idea that dog ownership has a big THE LINK Dog walking can be a critical part of impact on human-animal bonding, a healthy exercise routine. The Centers physical activity, frequency of doctor for Disease Control and Prevention visits and health outcomes of the recommends that adults of all ages participants. should engage in 150 or more minutes Here are a couple of the major of moderate physical activity per week. findings from the study: It also reported that among adults • Dog ownership and walking were 60 years of age or more, walking is the related to increases in physical health most common form of leisure-time among older adults. physical activity. It is less physically • People with higher degrees of pet demanding than other forms of bonding were more likely to walk their exercise such as jogging or biking, and dogs and to spend more time walking can have the same positive impact on their dogs each time than those who overall health in many cases. reported weaker bonds. Hence the link between owning a • Pet walking offers a means to dog and more heath benefits. Especially for dog breeds that require a socialize with pet owners and others.
Refresh Your Driving Skills Everyone needs a refresh — especially when it comes to driving and keeping up with the rules of the road. Your local Department of Motor Vehicles and the AARP are a couple of great resources for topnotch instructional programs.
T
he American Automobile Association also offers driving safety courses for mature drivers, as do local traffic schools, adult education programs and safety councils. The key is finding a program that works with your schedule and comfort level behind the wheel. Check with your local DVM to find the best options for you. Don’t feel intimidated by the process. Look at it as a learning experience to help improve your overall safety on the road.
BENEFITS
By taking the time to refresh your driving skills, you’re benefiting everyone who shares the road. That’s because drivers of any age who are more cognizant of today’s driving laws and safety standards are more likely to adhere to them while driving. Refresher courses will educate you on the ever-
DRIVER REFRESHER COURSES What exactly will you learn in a refresher course? The AARP teaches the following principles through its Smart Driver course in an easy-to-follow format incorporating adult-learning principles: • Research-based safe driving strategies; • Information on the effects of medication on driving; changing rules of the road. They also describe how • Preventive measures to reduce driver aging affects your ability to drive – knowledge that distractions; can help you adapt so you can drive safely for years to • Proper use of safety belts, air bags, anti-lock come. brakes and new technology found in cars today; Even if a senior has a good driving record, they can • Techniques for handling left turns, rights-ofalways improve their skills. According to AARP, an way and roundabouts; and evaluation of their senior driver refresher course • State-specific rules and regulations in 19 key found that 97 percent of participants changed at areas, including construction zones, child safety least one driving habit as a result of what they learned. seats, school buses, cellphone use and more.
Lee Central Coast Newspapers / Active Seniors / August/September 2016
7
Cold-Weather Safety The winter season can be hazardous to everyone, but one of the most at risk and susceptible populations is seniors. Comprehensive winter preparations and strategies must be put in place to ensure a healthy, happy winter.
O
ne of the first steps to making this happen is preparing your home and vehicle. Follow our tips below for making sure you’re ready for the chill.
Dressing in the appropriate attire is critical to maintaining healthy body temperature while enjoying the great outdoors. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, seniors should wear layers of light, warm WINTERIZING YOUR HOME & CAR clothing, gloves, hats, scarves and waterproof boots for maximum protection Your home needs to be winterized to keep you safe and warm all season long. A local contractor or handyman can do this job well by checking your heating from the cold. system and assessing the amount of insulation in your attic. Most contractors Around your home, there can be various hazards to look out for, including will advise having at least a foot of blown-in insulation in your attic as one of the patchy ice or slippery snow. The CDC advises sprinkling cat litter or sand on icy best ways to make sure your home retains its heat this winter season. areas to avoid falling and to always let friends and family members know when As for your vehicle, consider having it serviced by your mechanic about a you plan to leave the house during the wintertime. month before the temperature really starts to dip in your region. Tires, windshield wipers and heaters are just a few of the things that need to be checked. Remember to keep the gas tank full throughout winter and keep an emergency kit including blankets in the car at all times.
SENIOR OUTDOOR TIPS A little fresh air is a great way to keep healthy this winter. Obviously, you’ll want to avoid below-freezing temperatures, but a leisurely stroll around your neighborhood in the crisp weather can do wonders for keeping you healthy.
8 August/September 2016 / Active Seniors / Lee Central Coast Newspapers
Capable Dependable Trustworthy
Quality Care in Your Home
✓ Personal care, homemaking,
transportation, and more ✓ All staff are carefully selected and supervised ✓ Your satisfaction guaranteed
CALL FOR A BROCHURE
922-3644 736-8249
All staff bonded & insured
Caregivers are available 1 to 24 hours, 1 to 7 days per week.
1111 S. Broadway, Ste. 111 • Santa Maria, CA 93454 514 No. H St. • Lompoc, CA 93436 www.At-HomeServices.com
Going Back to School
I
The old saying “you can’t teach an old dog new tricks” doesn’t apply to humans. In fact, senior citizens make up one of the fastest-growing populations returning to school for non-traditional educational opportunities.
FEDERAL AID/ SCHOLARSHIPS
SOLVANG SENIOR CENTER
OTHER OPTIONS Some colleges offer free tuition to senior citizens. There are guidelines that will vary bu state, so contact your local college to inquire. If you still work, whether part-time or full-time, you may qualify for tuition assistance through your employer. It’s important to check all options to uncover as much assistance as possible. If you do have to pay out of pocket for your tuition, most colleges can set up payment plans. This will help you spread out the financial burden without having to juse credit cards or take bank loans to cover your educational costs.
A fantastic activity center, conveniently located in the heart of beautiful Solvang. Our focus is on keeping the Valley’s seniors, 55 and older, healthy in mind, body and spirit. Aside from delicious daily lunches and a festive monthly dinner night, the Center offers the following activities: Tai Chi • Arthritis Class • Pilates • Life Issues Discussion Group Creative Coloring • Art Class • Basic Cartooning • Novice Mah Jongg Bridge • Poker • Computer Class And Bingo. Guest speakers, outings, and fellowship are added bonuses!
1745 Mission Dr.,Solvang, Ca. 93463 • (805) 688-3793
9
Another driving factor in the rise of non-traditional senior students is the accessibility of financial aid and scholarships to help pay for their new educational pursuits. If you’re looking for some aid, start by filling out a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) online. Doing so will help give
you an idea of the various avenues for financial aid available to you. This type of aid is based on financial need. If approved, Pell grants and other state-specific grants could potentially cover your tuition. The application process will take you less than an hour — well worth the time to find out if you have financial help available to you.
Lee Central Coast Newspapers / Active Seniors / August/September 2016
n fact, the traditional 18- to 22-year-old student is now the minority in higher education. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, there are 17.6 million undergraduates in the U.S. Seniors make up some of the 25 percent of those enrolled in higher education who are over the age of 30. What’s driving this increase in older Americans heading back to college? Many of them are searching for ways to form new relationships. Others are focused on picking up new skills now that they have time to devote to themselves instead of supporting a family.
DIY or Hire a Contractor? Many senior citizens have worked their whole lives in part to buy and pay off their homes. Making smart updates will help protect this investment while also contributing to the owner’s comfort and mobility.
F
eeling handy? You can make many home upgrades yourself that will add value to your house and improve your living space at the same time. Maybe you spent countless hours over your lifetime doing the same work for others as a skilled plumber, electrician or contractor. As long as a little caution is exercised, along with seeking additional help when you need it, the DIY approach can save you a lot of money in the long run. Never skimp on the materials, however, especially if you’re looking to make sustainable changes. You can find quality products at your local hardware store that will ensure that your handywork remains strong for years. and if you can find quality contractors in your neck of the woods. HIRING A CONTRACTOR Choosing someone with a solid reputation and Some seniors will choose to hire a contractor due to a happy customers is the first step. Ask friends and variety of reasons. Letting professionals do the upgrades is always a great idea if you can afford to do so, neighbors about local contractors they have used.
Check your local newspaper for advertisements on handyman or renovation services. Always ask for references and guarantees on their work before signing any type of contract. According to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, a seniors should get bids from several trusted contractors.
ELDERLY FRAUD
Seniors are sometimes targeted for fraud, so due diligence is always recommended when looking for a professional contractor. Remember to always think twice if a deal sounds too good to be true, and never go through with a contract if you feel pressured to do so. Fortunately, you can prevent falling into the fraud trap by sticking with local, trusted contractors for your home improvement projects. Trust your instincts — and your friends’ and family members’ referrals — when hiring.
10 August/September 2016 / Active Seniors / Lee Central Coast Newspapers
A Lot Has Changed In The Last Ten Years– Including
Reverse Mortgages
We have a great selection of ladies apparel from Tianello, all made in America. Once you discover your style you will want more than one. Come in and see the
Call today to learn the latest information about this updated, government-insured program for accessing your home’s equity.
ou Are y up d e sign ur for o y da Birth ? u l C b
Bob Gayle
NMLS License 582948 • CA BRE Broker License 466813
garments made from natural fibers. You will love the quality, the look and the comfort. Stop by Elna’s today and shop the latest styles.
Reverse Mortgage Consultant 20 years in the business with a thousand happy customers
805/772-3658
beautiful echo-friendly
Elna’s Dress Shop A division of Aegean Financial CA BRE 1478751, NMLS 157935
At least one holder of title must be age 62 or greater. Homeowner must maintain home and reside there. Homeowner also must maintain as current, insurance, property taxes and HOA dues, as applicable.
1673 Copenhagen Drive Solvang • 805-688-4525 OPEN 7 DAYS 9:30- 5:30 VISA • MASTERCARD • DISCOVER CARD • AMERICAN EXPRESS
W
Renewing Friendships
ith the evolution of technology, it’s easier than ever to reconnect with your friends and loved ones. With a little computer savvy and a commitment to “getting the crew back together,” you can reclaim these relationships in no time.
BENEFITS OF FRIENDSHIPS
SOCIAL MEDIA
11
Many seniors go to their favorite social media platforms to find and reconnect with people who were once prominent in their lives. Social media makes it easy to search for people by name or location, helping you locate
FINDING FRIENDS
If you have recently moved to a new area, it may be challenging to put yourself back out there to find new friends. The AARP has put together some tips to help seniors meet friends, especially those seniors who may have a hard time thinking of ways to do so. Consider incorporating some of the following practices in your daily life to improve your chances of meeting new people: • Churches and other faith groups put on social events that can be great sources for new connections. Consider attending, and don’t be afraid to chat with people you don’t know. • Join a senior citizens’ center. These organizations are active in the community and put on a broad range of events, such as dances and parties, volunteering opportunities and recreation events. • Finding employment can open up a
Lee Central Coast Newspapers / Active Seniors / August/September 2016
Research shows that close and healthy relationships with others can contribute to your overall health, especially for senior citizens. Theses benefits can be physical, mental and emotional — all of which can contribute to healthier, more fulfilling lives. Whether you’re trying to find new friends or convince previous ones to start spending time together again, the effort required to do so may put you out of your comfort zone. It’s important to remember the advantages to a more friend-filled life. Doing so will help keep you focused on putting in the energy and dedication required to build and enhance relationships with those around you.
past connections. world of networking opportunities. Even being around new people to increase By simply sending an re-introductory if you’re looking for part-time work or a your chances of finding people looking message, you can easily find out what volunteering opportunity, the key is for the same thing as you: friendship. your friends have been up to and if they’d be interested in reconnecting. If they live close enough, you may be able to set up a time to meet for coffee or a meal.
12 August/September 2016 / Active Seniors / Lee Central Coast Newspapers
PROUD PARTNER IN HEALTH AND FITNESS SINCE 2008 Big thank you to the Santa Maria community!
Amenities and facilities vary by location.
Visit inshape.com to see what’s going on in your club! Senior and Military discounts now available.